Marshall County, Indiana - Chapter 6: By Christian Seiler, Jr, 1890 (part 1 of 4)

Chapter 6: By Christian Seiler, Jr

HIRTEEN miles northeast from Plymouth, the county seat of Marshall county, upon the north fork of the Yellow river, on a kind of plateau, and in German township, is located the town of Bremen. It was first called New Bremen, the name being given by George Pomeroy and Joseph Geiselman, who thought the name appropriate, as it was of German origin, and a large portion of the early settlers were a German-speaking people. However, the name " Bremen" is somewhat misleading to many, perhaps, from the fact that Bremen, in Europe, is a renowned German seaport and city; and the early settlers of our town and its neighborhooc, after the Pottawatomies and Miami Indians were here, consisted of emigrants from Alsace, France (now Germany), from Switzerland, and from Bavaria; and if a name had been given the town with the intent to indicate the nationality of its settlers and founders, the place might have been named Strasburg, Karlsruhe or Berne.

Bremen is a little more than half a century in age, or growth, the first settlements being made about 1836, and between that date and 1848, settlement was made b}^ several families, among whom there were these: Hardzog, Heim, Weis, Beyler, Koontz, Yockey, Ringle and others who preempted government lands in the vicinity, and here in the wilderness established their homes and began the rugged toil of pioneers. Other families soon came in, and ere long a village was formed. In 1846 a postoffice was established and named Brothersville, in honor of David Brothers, the first postmaster, and on whose premises the office was held by him two years. In 1848 George Pomeroy and John Bush bought of Mr. Brothers one acre of land. Mr. Bush took the east half and on it built a log cabin, where for two years he resided and followed the cooper's trade, and then sold his possessions to John Parker, a Quaker by faith, and a shoemaker by trade. Thus Mr. Parker became the first shoemaker of the place; and he was succeeded by Philip Kenager, who to this date, August, iSqo, still occupies the old log cabin, now antiquated and delapidated, and which, like its inmate, must soon give way to the march of time and be no more.

Mr. Pomeroy erected upon his half acre a crude frame, in which he kept the first store, it being a variety store, and here he held the postoffice, which, in 1848, had been changed in name from Brothersville to New Bremen. Mr. Pomeroy was the first notary public of the place. About this time, 1848. Joseph Geisleman purchased of Peter Heim, a lot, and here, where now is the business house of J. R. Deidrich & Co., Mr. Geisleman erected a log blacksmith shop, the first of the village, and here followed his trade of blacksmithing. Two years later he built the first frame dwelling of Bremen. In 1S51 Gottleib Amacher built a log cabin and became the first tailor; subsequently he sold his possessions to Joseph Biehl, who opened up a bakery and saloon. This building has been " sided up" and repaired, and is still owned by the Biehl family. Ben Shane had built a log cabin, which in the early fifties, John Soice, coming from Starke county, Ohio, purchased and converted into the first harness shop.

We have described nearly all there was of the village up to about 1851. October 21 of that year the first platting and laying out of the place was done by George Beyler, who laid-out and regularly surveyed forty-eight lots, and from this time on the town was called Bremen; the name of the postoffice being changed from New Bremen to the simple name of Bremen, which has ever continued unchanged. Thereafter the town continued to grow but slowly, as the word " boom " was then unknown. Since the original platting of the town there have been made the following additions: Deidrich's, Heim's, Ringle's, Bauer's, first and second; Foltz's, first and continued; J. D. Mast's, Luther R. Martin's, Daniel Ringle's, first, second and third; Koontz's, Wanner's and John P. Huff's.

The town was not incorporated until at the March term, 1871, by the board of commissioners. As a corporation it was divided into six districts, the officers being a clerk and treasurer, a marshal, an assessor, and six trustees. In 1872 the town was re-districted, and the number of trustees reduced to three, the other offices remaining the same as before. Subsequently other changes were made by re-districting, but at present ( iSqo), there are four districts, giving four wards, each represented by a trustee; and the office of clerk and treasurer made separate. The administration of the affairs of the town by the officials, all along, has been praiseworthy. The prosperity of the town has been established and maintained, the corporation now being clear of debt, with money in the treasury. Many and valuable improvements have been made in the way of streets, pavements, public buildings, etc., and the people may justly boast of their progressive, prosperous and well regulated town and homes, blessed with excellent schools, churches, and such other organizations necessary to the best of society. In regard to commerce and industries Bremen ranks high among the towns of Marshall county, and as evidence for the truth of this statement the following review is made in this connection.

I iidjist rial Review. - In 1852, Jacob Keifer came here from Mishawaka, Ind., and bought lot No. 2, in Helm's addition, and started thereon the first wagon shop in the village. In January, 1854, John Diederich, Sr., moved with his family to the place and erected a building which was the first cabinet shop in the town. The building erected was a frame and built of lumber. Christian Seller, Jr., then an apprentice at the cabinet trade, hauled from what was called the Keyser saw-mill, on the ridge, about the first in this section of the country, if not the first. Mr. Diederich remained in the furniture and undertaking business till 1866, when he sold his stock and tools to William Keifer and Michael Holdered, and went exclusively into the grocery and dry goods business. In the spring of the year 1854, Daniel Ringle, Sr., Daniel Ringle, Jr. and William Ringle built the first saw-mill on the ground where Carbiner & Huff's mill now stands. It was an upright saw, and was more noted for its heavy frame work and clumsy construction, than for the good work it did, until the firm of Montgomery & Engleston put in new machinery and circular saws, when it began to run more systematically. May 28, of 1874, it burned to the ground and a better mill has now taken its place.

In the year 1856 the Biehl brothers came from Pittsburgh, Penn., and started a tannery just east of town, where now (1890) the old dilapidated building may be seen. The three brothers were Charles, Joseph and John F. Biehl, and apparently they did a good business till 1857, when Charles sickened and died. John F. Biehl then became sole proprietor of the business, which he continued with little evidence of success till 1869. In this connection it ma}^ be stated that the father of the Biehl family had for many years been an itinerant doctor, and about 1854 opened up in a log cabin the first drug store of Bremen. This early physician and druggist was found, on the 8th of January, 1857, frozen to death in his room, and superstitious people long afterward believed the house to be haunted.

In March, 1856, Christian Schilt, who had been in partnership with the Rumley Bros., in the foundry business at La Porte, removed to the vicinity of Bremen, and for one year farmed the old McCalf farm. He was a good machinist, and the people clamoring for a grist-mill (the nearest mill being at Plymouth, but most of the farmers ffoins: to South Bend or Mishawaka to get their grain ground), Mr. Schilt with Samuel Schmachtenberger, erected in 1S57, the first grist-mill at Bremen. The farmers and citizens of the vicinity rendered them much aid in furnishing timber, lumber and work, because it was considered an improvement of much importance, and such encouragement was given as is necessary to make a town prosperous. In 1858 Jacob Schilt moved here with his family from Stark county, Ohio, and purchased Mr. Schmachtenberger's interest in the mill. The Schilt brothers operated the mill till 1863, when, by mutual agreement, they dissolved partnership, and Christ Schilt became the sole proprietor, remaining as such till his death occurred on August 21, 1874. The mill has now passed into the hands of William F. Schilt, his son, who has improved and made the mill one of the roller process. At the present date (1S90) there are two flouring mills in Bremen, the second one being operated by the Bremen Milling company, which was erected by A. J. Knobloch & Co., in 1875, and is also of the roller process. The two mills are considered valuable enterprises, and as they have a productive surrounding, an agricultural region, from which to draw trade, their prosperity is assured.

In the year 1853 John Koontz erected the second blacksmith shop of Bremen, but in 1855 the shop was converted into a grocery store, and then Mr. Koontz erected his present shop, and while aU other veterans in his profession have laid down their hammers, John Koontz maj^ still be heard, pounding his anvil, and deserves great credit for the continuation of his trade these many years. In the spring of 1854, the Prottsman family removed from Goshen to Bremen, and for a time ran a general store, but subsequently erected a building on the present site of the American house, and here kept the first regular hotel of Bremen; but in 1859, the family not being successful in their undertakings, removed to La Porte county. Among the early tavern or hotel keepers of Bremen were the following: George Pomeroy (who kept really the first inn of the place), John Prottsman (as referred to above), John Bauer, Jr., and others.

In 1865 Jacob Knobloch erected in Bremen a large and commodious hotel, which was the pride of the town. It was known as the Knobloch house, and Air. Knobloch operated it till 1869, when his death occurred, and about this time Mr. E. J. Thompson, Mr. Knobloch's son-in-law, assumed control of the house, which was thereafter known as the Thompson house. Subsequently H. M. Garver became the occupant and manager, but in 1879 the building was consumed in flames.

In 1S66, Jacob Walter, in connection with William Huff, Sr., and August Mentzel, erected in Bremen, the first planing mill. About two years later Mr. Walter became sole proprietor of the mills, and under his management the mill was prosperous, continuing to be operated until his death occurred, in 1889, since which time the mills have been somewhat idle.

Perhaps the most important industry established in Bremen is the Bent-wood factory, owned and operated by John J. Wright. Mr. Wright came to Bremen in 1869, in which year he erected his factory, which he has since continued to operate, manufacturing such as bent-wood material for the building of carriages, houses, fencing, etc. This factory affords employment for more workmen than any or perhaps all other enterprises of the place, and is of no little importance as an enterprise. Soon after the establishment of this factory there followed, in 1872, the institution of the Bremen Woolen Mills, by George and Peter Weyrough, two brothers. The mills were erected just east of town and seemed to prosper and did continue in operation for some eight or ten years, since when for some cause best known to its proprietors, operation has been suspended, but evidently the suspension has not been due to the want of facilities, in the way of raw material, etc., necessary to supply and make prosperous such an industry.

In 1S79 the Bremen Pump Company was organized, and a pump factory erected on or near the B. & O. railway at Bremen, and for a time it appeared a valuable and successful enterprise would continue, but adversity befell the attempt, and the project was abandoned, and subsequently the flames reduced the factory to ashes.

The only exclusively planing and shingle mills of Bremen were built about 1882, by Knoepfle & Vollmer, who have been successful in their enterprise. About 1878-9 A. Hadwin began the operation, upon a small scale, of a machine shop in the place, and continued the same till about 1886, when William May, the present proprietor, bought out Mr. Hadwin. It is now known as the Bremen Machine works, and is intended for doing repairing of machinery more than anything else. Still it is a valuable addition to the industries of the town.

Burkhard & Hantz is the style of a firm now operating successfully a heading and stave factory, which was formerly known as the Michigan Heading and Stave factory. The same has been operated since about 1875, and the various changes in its management perhaps need not be recorded here in detail.

Since about 1884 the Schlossher Bros, have owned and operated the Cottage Grove creamery, just south of Bremen, which is entitled to claim the enterprise as a valuable addition to its industries. The creamery was begun on a small scale and has increased in importance until it has reached large capacity, and gained a reputation along with that of the best creameries of our county, and all is due the enterprising proprietors who are founders, though young men.

Until the completion of the Baltimore & Ohio railroad comparatively little merchandising was done at Bremen, since then mercantile pursuits here have been varied in character, and as usual many failures have been observed. Still there are and have been several successful merchants who b)' their practical business qualification have been successful in establishing a fair market for the farmer, and Bremen has become perhaps more than an ordinary trading point for a town of its size. Perhaps the first merchant to achieve a marked success in merchandising was Jacob Schilt, who during the civil war, and thereafter, up to the time of his death, which occurred only a few j^ears ago, conducted an extensive business. He was progressive, enterprising and practical as a business man, and amassed considerable wealth in conducting a general merchandise business. He is remembered as a representative business man, and a worthy citizen, moral, industrious and honest.

To make detailed mention of the several merchants who have been, and of those who are now, engaged in business here, would doubtless consume too much space. At this date, 1S90, there are three prosperous dry goods stores, also carrying general merchandise; one is that of John J. Wright, managed by his son, W. D. Wright; one is that of George Helenlinger, and the third is that operated by J. R. Diedrich & Co. The following are proprietors of groceries: Jacob Bauer, Fred Ponader, George W. Sunderland and others. There are two hardware stores, the one controlled by John W. Steinick,the other by Weis & Ewalt. John Huff and John Miller each have furniture and undertaking establishments, and the two drug stores are separately operated by O. F. S. Miller and G. F. Wahl. The Garver house, with H. M. Garver, proprietor, and the American house, operated by Frank Walter, are the hotels. There are two harness shops, three shoe shops, several blacksmith shops, one tailor shop, two livery stables, one marble works, an elevator, a pickle factory, two millinery shops, two implement stores and many other business places. It is not intended here to give a complete business directory of Bremen, but only to present sufficient particulars to indicate the volumes of business done here.

Prior to 1889, no regular bank had been established in Bremen. However, J. R. Diedrich & Co., since 1875, have conducted in their store a kind of exchange bank. In November of iSSo, the Union bank was established, and is the first and only bank of the town, doing an exclusivel}' banking business. This bank, though a private bank, controlled by an association of a number of stockholders, transacts a lucrative business, and upon the plan of the Indiana State banks. However, it is not a state bank. At present (August, 1S90), L. C. Curtiss is president and H. G. Hess, cashier.

Rai'lroads. - Bremen is lo,cated on the line of the Baltimore & Ohio railway, and though this is the only railway touching the place, still it gives to the town an outlet to the east and to Chicago and the west, that presents splendid shipping facilities. In 1872 this railroad was proposed, and the progressive and liberal citizens of Bremen and vicinity, gave valuable subsidies, including right-of-way, and gratuitous donations. In this same year the survey was made, and two years later (in 1S74), the road was completed, and the first train passed the observation of the Bremen citizens, through their own town and home. The railroad is recognized as one of the best in the country, and such is its splendid system of management, that since 1874 the people of Bremen and German township have enjoyed excellent railway facilities which have enabled them to find a market with more ease than that accompanying the prior way of hauling by wagon and team, over long roads to, perhaps, Plymouth and South Bend, which cities then afforded the principal markets for the farmers. Few other towns no larger than Bremen, afford any greater traffic for railroads, as from here are shipped large quantities of wheat, corn, oats and other grains, live stock, timber and lumber, the last two commodities being those that have greatly added to the wealth of this section.

The growth of Bremen in population has been steady; the percentage of increase during the past decade of years has been very small and scarcely perceptible. According to reliable authority the actual population in 1890 is, in round numbers, 1,100, however, 1,500, and even by some 1,800, has long been claimed as the population, but it is well known how often our town and city populations are over-estimated. Among the people of Bremen and vicinity there are representatives from nearly all the eastern states, and, perhaps New York and Ohio are best represented. There is, perhaps, no other county that is better represented than Stark county, Ohio, among the early settlers, for many of them came from that county. Most of the foreign-born citizens have passed to their eternal home, and with chem there have passed away nearl}' all of the old settlers, and only a few who participated in the early settling of the place and township 21 - B.

are left to tell the story of progress presented along the march of time. Among the population that people this town and township there are lineal descendants of not a few nationalities. There are represented the German, the English, the Swiss, the Polish, the Scotch, the Irish, and others, but the most predominant is, evidently, the German.

In an early da^' the settlement of Bremen and German township was made by a hardy and sturdy people, largely German and Swiss. The}' took up their habitation in the wilderness of dense forests; built their log cabin homes, and began the earnest and rugged battle of life as pioneers. Hard toil was the dailj^ lesson; many were their trials and privations. Clearing and chopping, cultivating the soil In a rude way were labors of the father and sons. The mother and daughters, too, had their irksome duties, but amid all it is questionable if these early settlers did not live a more contented life than their seemingly more prosperous descendants. Contented with their lot and duty these pioneers struggled hard in the improvement of their farms and homes, and we of to-day are indebted to them for our magnificent country with its most excellent farms, and homes which make a paradise in comparison with what our forefathers had. These early settlers were not unmindful of the necessity of church, and early began to establish churches.

Religions Denominations. - The religious denominations that have maintained an existence in Bremen are Lutheran, Allbright (later Evangelical association) , Presbyterian (or German Reform), United Brethren, Congregational, Catholic and Methodist Episcopal. The Lutheran was the first to be established, which was in 1845, by Rev. G. K. Schuster, a Bavarian. The church has ever been prosperous and has increased in membership until more families of Bremen and vicinity are now represented in its congregation than in any other church of the place. Among the early families of the church were the Bauer, Koontz, Hay, Gass, Keifer, Vollmer and others. Their first place of worship was a log cabin on the north side of the Yellow river, now in the present limits of Bremen. In 1S55 a new place of worship was built on Mill street, and later, in about 1875, the present edifice was erected in the southeast portion of the town. It is a commodious frame, and adjacent to the same the church has a separate building in which is taught their parochial school, employing regularly a teacher to educate their children in both English and German; the school is an adjunct of the church. The present pastor is Rev. C. H. Luecker, and the parochiaf school teacher is George Wamsgaus.

The Evangelical association, as a congregation, was organized in the late forties by Rev. Peter Burgener, a Swiss, and among the early members there were represented several families in- eluding the following: Berger, Beyler, Heim, Weis, Gruber, Seller, F"entz and others. The first church house was built about one and a half miles northwest of Bremen about 1849 or 1850, and was a frame structure. This continued to be the place of worship until about the year 1S68, when the present elegant frame structure was built in Bremen, on Plymouth street. The church is in a prosperous state and has a fairly large membership. There have been several ministers in charge of the congregation, and the present pastor is Rev. Mr. Speichert, a descendant of Swiss parents.

The Presbyterian or German Reformed church, of Bremen, was organized, perhaps, about 1852, and the first minister of the gospel in the church was byname Rev. Miller, and among the more prominent members were the following families: Voegli, Koontz, Roth, Voegler, Snyder, Diedrich, Freese and others, many of which had broken off from the Lutheran church by reason of the strict orthodoxical discipline of that church. The first place of worship was a log cabin on the site of the present cemetery of Bremen. In 1859, on lot 6, of the original plat in Bremen, the first regular church was built, and here the congregation worshiped up to 1882, in which year their present attractive and large brick edifice was erected on Center street. For a decade of years. Rev. Philip Wagner preached for the congregation, and few others have preached for them, and at this writing Rev. Mej^er is acting pastor. The members are numerous and are zealous and active workers, and the prosperity of the church is assured.

The United Brethren church has continued in Bremen since 1853, the year in which the organization was made under Rev. S. W. Wells. Other ministers of this church have been the following: J. S. Todd, Preston Wells, A. Richhart, H. Tack Fletcher Thomas, D. Williamson, M. Hutt, A. Reed, J. Surran, John Good, J. C. Larue, A. M. Cummins, Eph. Best, J. S. Todd, N. F. Surface and others, while the present pastor is Rev. J. W. Showley. This church had no well fixed place of worship till about 1862, when in unison with representatives from other churches there was built on the Bremen cemetery grounds, a Union church house, and here as well as other congregations, the United Brethren worshiped till about 1878-9, and then accomplished the building of their present frame church house, in Bremen, where now a goodly number of members have a fixed place for worship.

hi the fall of 1873 the first effective attempt was made that led to the organization of the Congregational church of Bremen. Messrs. Baldwin, Morris, Loney, Wright and their families held at their homes on the Sabbath appropriate services. Mr. J. J. Wright appropriated a part of his shop to a higher use, and on the second story of his shop there was fitted up and completed -a convenient room, which was comfortably and tastily furnished, and known as Congregational chapel. The Rev. Everts Kent, of Michigan City, was invited to preach here, and on April 12, 1874, a large congregation assembled and listened to the preaching of .the gospel according to the Congregational church faith. In the afternoon of that Sabbath the first communion service was held, :and the church was organized, Congregational in creed or faith, and the members consisted of J. J. Wright and wife; W. D. Wright, their son; Mr. and Mrs. Loney, Mr. and Mrs. Monroe, Mr. and Mrs. H. J. Macombe, and D. J. Baldwin. The number members has increased with a large percentage, and various pastors have preached for the congregation, and at this date, iSqg, Rev. D. Lee Sandburn is minister in charge. It has been about ten years since a regular church house was erected. The same was erected by means of donations, and is a convenient frame, well arranged and modern in architecture, and here this -denomination, now grateful for a place to worship their creator, meet in both church service and Sunday-school work, and constitute a zealous and prosperous society.

There are few Catholics in Bremen, still they have a place of worship. A church house of frame was erected just west of the town in 1S74, Luther R. Martin, of Indianapolis, donating a lot for the site.

The Methodist Episcopal church of Bremen was organized ;at an early date, and afterward the congregation purchased the Bremen Turnverein Germania hall and converted it into a desirable and commodious place of worship, and here they continued to worship for a few years only, and subsequently the <:hurch membership grew weaker and smaller, and finally there was no class, and to-day there is no Methodist Episcopal church of Bremen.

Schools. - Bremen is blessed, too, with most excellent schools. The first school building was erected in 1853, on lot number 5, which lot was donated to the township trustee by George Beyler. The building was a one-story frame, 22x30 feet, and the first :school in it was taught by George Pomeroy.

Five years later the school population had increased so much that more school room was necessary. Accordingly, in 1S58, to the former building an addition of the same dimensions was made, and between the old and new a folding door was constructed. The schools were under the supervision and instruction of one teacher for a few years, perhaps until 1862 or 186^^ when two teachers were employed. Not until 1871 was it found necessary to extend the capacity of the school building. In this year the building was improved and made a two-story frame at .a cost for building and furniture of perhaps $4,500. In 1880 another addition, two-story, was made, and now gives both sufficient capacity and convenience. The present school population of Bremen is 3S6. The first classification of the pupils was made in 1858. Now the school is a regular graded school with a high school department, and with a course of study adequate for giving its pupils a liberal English education. For several years the schools have been under the superintendency of Prof. H. H. Miller, who is recognized as an able educator; and the superiority of the Bremen schools is due to his zealous efforts, assisted by three able assistant teachers.

The people of Bremen are, and may well be, proud of their good schools, and there seems to be among the masses an earnest desire to educate; and the surety that the schools ever will continue to be prosperous, well regulated, thorough and of splendid facilities to educate the youth, is evident from the manifested interest in them.

Scarf Societies. - Among the secret societies of Bremen, the prevailing one, perhaps, is the Masonic. Bremen lodge. No. 414, F. & A. M., was organized on the 2nd of March, 1S69, under a dispensation, in which the following officers are named: Lewis Theobold, W. M.; Jacob Schilt, S. W.; Moses Keyser, J. W. A charter was granted and the lodge regularly organized, June 16, 1870, by E. R. Shook, of Plymouth, deputy grand master. The following have served as masters: A. B. Younkman, Lewis. Theobold, A. B. Younkman, Charles H. Lehr, Moses Keyser, Charles H. Lehr, Daniel Fore, Charles H. Lehr, A. B. Younkman, G. W. Moody, A. B. Younkman, up to i886,*when Christian Seller was elected; then A. B. Younkman, and the present master, John W. Braugher. The lodge is a prosperous one, and consists of a working membership of perhaps twenty-seven.

Bremen lodge. No. 427, L O. O. F., was organized November 20, 1873, with following charter members: A. C. Holtzendorff, Andrew Berger, John Bauer, Gottlieb Rosenbaum, Jacob Walter. This fraternity continued an existence up to about 1888, when for lack of energy and interest among the members, the lodge was discontinued and the charter surrendered.

During 1872-3-4 the Grangers maintained an existence, but its fate was in common with many others of its kind in Indiana, and hence was of short duration.

The Ancient Order of United Workmen organized a lodge here, and continued for a short period, covering perhaps two or three years, probably from 1882 to 1885, and was discontinued in the absence of prosperity.

In September, i88q, there was organized, with a membership of eighteen, the Knights of Maccabees of the world, a secret society having perhaps, for its main purpose, mutual insurance of

The Hartzog post, No. 400, department of Indiana, G. A. R., was organized January i, 1SS5, with thirty-five charter members. The following have been the commanders: Adam Koontz, Joseph W. Hume, Jacob Kaufman, D. C. Smith, and now (1S90) Adam Koontz. The post contains an affiliating membership of about thirty-five, and is one of the most active in this section, and is attended with prosperity and evidence of a long continuance.

Fire Department. - The fire department of Bremen was organized and established September 8, 1S74, at which time there were issued bonds to the amount of $2,100 to purchase the necessary apparatus. However, the bonds have been redeemed and now the town is clear of debt. The town has a building for the fire department apparatus, which consists of an excellent hand engine, two hose carts and 1,200 feet of hose, and a hook and ladder wagon. At appropriate locations in the town there have been excavated sixteen cisterns, from which ample water may at any time be had for extinguishing fires. There are eighty-five members of the department, divided into four divisions: An engine company, a hook and ladder company and two hose companies. The following have been chiefs of the fire department: H. J. Macomber, 1874 to 1877; A. B. Younkman, 1877 to 1879; H. H. Miller, 1879 to 1890. Hoosier Hook and Ladder Co. No. i was organized June 5, 1874, with Adam Hans foreman, and in 1890 the foreman is Edward Conrad. It is a most excellent company and took the first prize at the fireman's tournament at Bourbon, in September, 1877, running 300 yards, stacking ladder and putting man over top, time: thirty-four and a half seconds. The Union Engine company was organized October 15, 1874, with John Walter, foreman, and at the present, John Huff is the foreman. Union Hose company No. i was organized October 14, 1874, with Charles Glass as foreman, and the present foreman is Goetlieb Brenlin. Union Hose company No. 2 was organized June 13, 1878, and subsequentl}- disbanded and there was organized an expert hose company and is known as Hose company No. 4, with S. G. Lehr as present foreman. September 6, 1877, the engine and hose companies attended the firemen's tournament at Goshen, Ind., where they made the best time, running 100 yards, laying fifty feet of hose and throwing water fifty feet, in thirty-four and one-fourth seconds, receiving the first prize, amounting to $So. Hose company No. 4, in September of 1885, at a tournament at Michigan City, won first prize, receiving $100 and a water service. In August, 1887, at Plymouth, they received $50 and the championship of Indiana.

The Union Engine Company No. i, in 1882, won the state championship as an engine company, and it was in iS85,at South Bend, that Messrs. Ed. Hickeman and Theo. Walter, as couplers from this fire department, took the world championship from Bret. The department is the best organized and drilled in Indiana, and is a most excellent department.

The Bremen Cornet band is one of the best in Indiana, and was organized in 1S66. In 1S61 the first band of Bremen was organized with Peter Vogeli as leader, and Mr. Vogeli also became leader of the Cornet band and was its leader up to a recent date, in fact till ill health necessitated him to resign the leadership. The band consisted of nine members and nine pieces of music when organized. They had become skillful in music under its veteran musician and leader, and now consists of fourteen members, all of whom are good musicians.

Akiospapcrs. - About 1872 the first newspaper published in Bremen was established and published by the Macomber Bros., and was known as the Broncn Clipper. It continued but a short time and was suspended. In 1876 Charles W. Sweeny published, in the interest of democracy, the Bremen Gazette, but it, too, was of short duration. About 1878, George and Lee Sunderland, brothers, established the Bremen Banner, a weekly issue. It was the first newspaper of any consequence, and gained a fair circulation, and was fairly well appreciated by the patrons. It was discontinued about 1888. Bremen now has a prosperous and fixed publication as a newspaper, and is known as the Bremen Enquirer. It was established in 1885 by Brook H. Bowman, who made the first issue of his paper November 17, 1S85. Each week, since this date, it has appeared as an eight column sheet, neat, newsy and ably edited by its founder, who has continued as editor and proprietor. It has gained a circulation of 800, and has an assured prosperity. It is neutral in politics, and aims and does give its many patrons the current news of interest.

Pliysicians. - Among the early physicians of Bremen and German townships, there were Dr. Pollard and Dr. Moore, who practiced here in the forties. In 1854, Dr. William Stange became the first resident physician of Bremen, and here he continued for rnany years, his death occurring about 1S87. In 1856, Dr. Christian Seiler located at Bremen, and here continued an active and successful practice till his death occurred in 1883. He was a trusted family phj^sician of more than a local reputation as an able physician, and by his practice in the profession amassed a fortune, dying universally respected by all who knew him. Dr. Baird was also a well-known physician who practiced medicine and resided in Bremen from 1866 to 1S75, his death occurring in the latter year. In 1867, Dr. A. B. Younkman located in Bremen, and began the practice of medicine. He has continued an active and successful career as a physician and surgeon, and is one of the four phj-sicians now practicing at Bremen. More recently the other three physicians, namely, Drs. Wahl, Church and Herring, have located here at Bremen, and built up a practice. There is also in Bremen a skilled dentist, Dr. A D. Scott; and also an able veterinary surgeon, Chas. H. Gollatz. The following are physicians who located and practiced medicine in Bremen but a brief time: Drs. Deppler, Oults, Bishop and Moody.

The legal profession is also represented in Bremen by a very able attorney, S. J. Hayes. Mr. Hayes has practiced law here several years, and is recognized as a man of strong legal mind and ability by not only the people in general, but by the members of his own profession.

George Balsley, a representative farmer of German township, was born in Marion county, Ohio, April iq, 1S40, and is a son of Jacob and Mary Ann (Hunselman) Balsley. The parents were native of Alsace, Germany, were married in Marion county, Ohio, and their union resulted in the birth of the following children: Sophina, Jacob C., John, George, Joseph, Sarah, Catherine, Mary and Charles. In the fall of 1847 the parents left Ohio, and came to Indiana, locating in German township, Marshall county, where their deaths subsequently' occurred. George Balsley was reared and educated on a farm, and remained with his parents till past twenty years of age, working at farm work. In 1S60 he went west and for a few months was in the gold mines of Pike's Peak, Colorado. He returned to this county, and in 1861 married Mary Radabaugh, who became the mother of one child, namely, William W., after whose birth she was called away by death. In 1873 Mr. Balsley married for a second wife, Caroline F"rie, who was born in Germany, March 28, 1850. To this marriage there have been born the following children: Minnie, Elizabeth, Elnora, James H., Clem S., Walter S., Harmon C, Cora Alice and Lee Roy. Mr. Balsley enlisted as a private in the F'ifteenth Indiana volunteer battery, September 13, 1862, and was discharged June 30, 1865. He was a brave and gallant soldier, and participated in many engagements, among which were the siege of Knoxville, Resaca, Atlanta Campaign, Franklin, Nashville and others. At the close of war Mr. Balsley returned to Marshall county, and has since mainly followed farming in German township. In connection with farming he has spent eight years in saw-milling. He is a thrifty and successful farmer, and an industrious citizen. He is a member of the G. A. R., Hardzog post of Bremen; also of the Bremen lodge, No. 414, F. & A. Kl., and in politics he is a staunch republican.

John Bauer, Jr., a native of Stark county, Ohio, was born September 14, 1836, and is a son of John and Margaret (Foltz) Bauer. The father was born in Alsace, Germany, in 1812, and the mother in Beirn, Germany, in 1814, and with their respective parents they emigrated to America, in about 1S33. They were married in Starke county, Ohio, about the year 1S34, and their union resulted in the birth of the following children: Elizabetii, John, Adam, Caroline, Jacob, George, William, Charles and Maggie. For ten years after their marriage they resided in Ohio, and in 1S44 emigrated to Indiana, and settled near Bremen, Marshall county. Here the mother died in i86r. The father married a second time in 1865, and now resides in Bremen, as one of its oldest and best citizens, whose life has been spent in farming. John Bauer, his son, was reared on a farm, and given a fair education in the German language, and also acquired a fair knowledge of the English branches. Farm work was his duty till he was about seventeen years old, when he learned blacksmithing, which he followed some eight or nine years. In 1859 he married Miss Margaret Walters, who was born in Marion county, Ohio, in 1S37, dying at Bremen in 1877. The above marriage was blessed b}^ the birth of four children, namely: William (deceased), Mary E., Lucinda and Annie. In 18S1 Mr. Bauer mairied for a second wife, Mary Eslinger, born in St. Joseph county, Ind., January 17, 1845. In 1S60 Mr. Bauer became a hotel proprietor in Bremen, where he kept hotel for about eighteen years. In 1874, he built the " American house," and operated it for one year, selling out in 1875. Later he was in the boot and shoe business for a short time. In the fall of 1884 he was appointed postmaster for Bremen, and he held the office till in the fall of 1S88. He has held several positions of trust in the county and town, once serving a term as county coroner, and is at present one of the Bremen councilmen. He is a member of the Bremen lodge. No. 414, F. & A. M., and in politics a staunch democrat.

Brook H. Bowman, editor and proprietor of the Bremen Enquirer, is a native of Albion, Ind., born May 31, 1863, and is the only surviving issue of the marriage of Simon and Cornelia (Baughman) Bowman. The father and mother were born in Ohio, and their marriage was consummated in Noble county, Ind. March 21, 1865, the father became a Union soldier, and later was made second lieutenant of Company I, One Hundred and Twenty-ninth Indiana infantry, with which he served until his death, which occurred at Nashville, Tenn., August iq, 1865. Subsequently, in 1867, his widow was wedded to O. H. York, whose death occurred at Lisbon, Ind., in 1876, and she, in 1878, became the wife of Henry M. Garver, with whom she now resides in Bremen. Our subject was educated in the public schools of Albion and Kendallville, of Noble county, where he was reared. When his mother married Mr. Garver, she brought her son with her to Bremen, at which time he was but fifteen years of age. He secured work in the printing office of the BrcDien Banner, and here learned the art of setting type. Here, as a printer, he worlved till in 18S4, when, with a partner, he located at Rome City, Ind., and founded and published the Clipper, till in i8S5,whenhe sold out his interest to his partner. Subsequently, for a short time, he was engaged at work in the office of the Fort Wayne Daily Gazette. In the fall of ]S85, he returned to Bremen and began the publication of the Bremen Astonisher, now the Enquirer. His paper is an independent weekly, and has a circulation of about 700 copies. As an editor Mr. Bowman ranks well, and at his early age he achieved much success in his chosen avenue of life. He is a member of the K. O. T. M., of Bremen, and of the Sons of Veterans.

D. M. Bowser, a representative farmer of German township, was born in Elkhart county, Ind., May 6, 1835, and is a son of Daniel and Sarah (Brombough) Bowser. The parents were perhaps both born in Pennsylvania, and in an early day, with their parents, came to M'ontgomery county, Ohio, where they were married. They had the following children: William, Philip, Henry, David M., Joseph and Eve, all except Joseph still live. In about 1833, the parents moved from Ohio to Elkhart county, Ind., where they settled, and later, removed to Kosciusko county, where the father died in 1849, aged forty-five years. The mother subsequently married a second time and lived in Elkhart county, where she died March i, 1868, aged sixty-three years. The parents were of a mixed descent, being that of the Scotch, English and German, and their church faith was that of the German Baptist. The father was a farmer by occupation. He lived in Elkhart county but a short time when he removed to Kosciusko county, where David M., our subject, was reared up to the age of fifteen years. On the second marriage of his mother, he began the battle of life for himself, working as a hired hand on a farm, as a poor boy. In youth he gained a fair education for his day, in the country schools, learning to read, write and cipher. But through the avenue of books and papers, he has become conversant on subjects of general interest. Later, for two or three years he farmed upon his own capital, and when the civil war broke out he was among the loyal and first to enlist. He answered to the first call in 1861, for a three months' service, and enlisted in a company that was not accepted because the call was filled when the}- had reached Indianapolis. Their captain was Gen. Haskill, and to his hesitancy may be credited their rejection. And November 21, 1861, he was enrolled at Goshen, Ind., as a private in Company M, Forty-first Indiana mounted volunteers for a term of three years, or during the war, and October 4, 1864, at Indianapolis, was discharged by reason of expiration of term of service as a sergeant of Capt. A. S. Mitchell. Record: Gal- latin, Tenn., Shiloh, Teiin., Carthage, Tenn. Then Forrest captured our subject and four others, who were carrying a dispatch to Mitchell, then in pursuit of Morgan, and were held prisoners for about seven months before they were paroled and exchanged. Then took part in the engagements at Buzzard Roost and siege of Atlanta. When he was discharged Mr. Bowser came back to Elkhart county, and in 1865, was married to Mary E. Allen, daughter of Avry and Mary A. (Stockmore) Allen. Mrs. Bowser was born in Fulton county, N. Y., September 7, 1S40. The children are: Edward C, Allen A., Franklin U.; Charles, deceased; George E., Hattie M., and Orvil E. March 2, 1868, Mr. and Mrs. Bowser removed from Goshen to Marshall count}' and settled on their present homestead in German township where Mr. Bowser has since been engaged in farming. Of their children, Edward C. is married and is farming near his parents, and Allen A. is a typewriter for a business firm in Indianapolis, but once was a teacher. The other children are at home.

Jacob Carbiener, a representative citizen of German township, was born in Wayne county, Ohio, May 26, 1852. He is a son of George and Catherine (Siefer) Carbiener. The parents were born in Alsace, Germany, the father in 1S23, the mother in 1826. In 1850 the father emigrated to America, and in 1851 the mother, both locating in Wayne county, Ohio, where, in 1851, they were united in marriage. To this marriage were born the following children: Mary, Jacob, George, Catherine, Elizabeth, Annie, Sarah, William and Matilda. In 1854 the parents removed from Ohio, and settled in St. Joseph county, Ind., where the mother died in 1869. When they settled in St. Joseph county, they located in the woods, and in an early day of the settlement of that county, and, clearing, chopping the heavy timbers, was the first work of the father, whose life occupation has been farming. The advantages then were poor for farming, but through trials and privations this pioneer and his family passed on to success and prosperity. The father still lives, and is a well known and respected citizen. He is a member of the German Presbyterian church, of which church the mother died a member. Jacob, their eldest son, the subject of this sketch, was reared on a farm, and acquired a fair common school education for his day. He was given poor advantages in youth to gain an education, for the schools of his day were poor, and in them were taught hardl}' more than reading, writing and arithmetic. However, through the means of books and papers, he has gained knowledge of subjects of general interest. He worked on the farm with his father till past twenty-one years of age, and then the struggle of life for himself, with no capital other than ambition and a determination to succeed. In 1876 he married Susan- nah Link, who was born in Mohoning county, Ohio, July i, 1S51. The marriage resulted in the birth of the following children: Delbert, Gracie, Nora, Arthur and Earl. Soon after his marriage Mr. Carbiener settled down in life on a farm in German township. He followed agricultural pursuits for a few years, and then began saw-milling and lumbering. He still owns a farm, but has his farming done by hired help, his work and attention being turned to saw-milling and lumbering, in which he has been successful!}' engaged for over twelve years. At the present he and William H. Huff are operating a stationary sawmill at Bremen, with an annual out-put of nearly one and a half million feet of lumber. He is one of the leading business men of Bremen, and is one of the representative citizens of the county. He is a self-made man; and although he began life poor, he has achieved success in his various undertakings, and grown prosperous. In politics he is a staunch democrat. In the spring of 1S90 he became the choice of his party, as their candidate for township trustee, and in the April election was triumphantly elected. He is a man of less than forty years, and at this early age has a bright prospect for a future career.

Morgan Fink, proprietor of a meat market in Bremen, was born in Mahoning county, Ohio, October 14, 1845, ^"^1 is a son of Martin and Polly (Weaver) Fink. The following are the names of the children born to Martin and Polly Fink: Louis C., Amanda, Morgan, Eli, Ellen, Lorinda, Charles, Uretta, Eliza, and William. The parents settled in St. Joseph county, Ind., in 1855, removing to Marshall county in 1857, and subsequently removed to Bremen, where the father followed merchandising for several years. He died in Bremen at an advanced age. He was an honest, thrifty, and progressive citizen, a leading democrat, and respected by all alike. His widow now resides in Bremen, and is one of its oldest citizens. Morgan Fink was raised on a farm and given a fair common school educetion. LIpon reaching his majority he began the battle of life for himself as a farmer on rented lands, consequently beginning with a very limited capital, but by energy and enterprise he has become prosperous, and now enjoys a high rank in life. In 1866, he married Margaret Felnaggle, a native of Mahoning count}', Ohio, and unto the marriage there have been born three children, namely: Clayton (deceased), Florence and Pearl. Mr. Fmk farmed till in the spring of 1882, when he became a citizen of Bremen, where he has since been operating a meat market.

Jacob Fries, Jr., a live and energetic citizen of Bremen, Ind., was born in Holmes county, Ohio, May 9, 1841, and is the eldest child of Jacob and Louisa (Huff) Fries. The father was born in Bavaria, Germany, January 12, 1812, and emigrated to the United States in 1833, locating in Holmes county, Ohio, where he married Louisa Huff, who was born in Germany in 1818, and who died in Bremen in 18S7. The parents came to German township in 1845, ^^d the father is one of the oldest citizens of Bremen. His life has been spent at the shoemakers' trade and farming. The subject of this sketch is his oldest son, and he was reared on a farm, receiving a fair education in both the English and German languages. He worked with his father on the farm till he entered the army, September 10, iS6i,_ enlisting as a private in Company K, of the Twenty-ninth Indiana volunteer infantry. Among the principal engagements in which he participated were the battles of Shiloh, Corinth, Stone River, Liberty Gap, Chickamauga and others. At the last named battle he received a gun shot wound in the right shoulder, disabling him, and leading to his discharge at Indianapolis, May 4, 1864. After returning to Bremen, and recovering, he engaged in farming, together with operating threshing machines up to 1879, when he began dealing in farm implements at Bremen, and has since continued in that business. At present he is a special salesman for the Whitley binder and mower machine company of Springfield, Ohio. January 15, 1865, Mr. Fries was united in marriage with Annie Seller, born in Switzerland, March 19, 1843. Unto the above union have been born five children, namely: Flora, Ellen, Charlie, Maudie and Minnie. Mr. Fries is a representative citizen, a democrat in politics, and a member of the Hardzog G. A. R. post of Bremen.

John P. Gass, proprietor of a meat market in Bremen, was born near Bremen on a farm, October 22, 1850, and is a son of John and Barbara E. (Ponadour) Gass. Both parents were born in Germany, the father in 1813, and the mother in 1815. The father died in German township, this county, in 1869, and the mother now lives in Bremen. They emigrated to America separately, he about 1846, and she about 1847. They were married in 1847 in St. Joseph county, Ind., and immediately after their marriage settled in German township, where the father followed farming till he died. Unto their marriage were born the following children: Maggie, deceased; John P.; Jacob, deceased; Mary, deceased; Katy, deceased; Urva, deceased, and Charles. The parents reared their children in the Lutheran faith. John P., the subject of this sketch, was reared to farming and was given a fair common school education in thecountry schools, learning to read and write both the English and German languages. He remained under the parental roof till past twenty-one years of age, at which time he began the battle of life as a farmer. May 27, 1871, he was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Foltz, daughter of John A. Foltz, an early settler of the county. Mrs. Gass was born in Carroll county, Ohio, December 13, 1S51, and her marriage with Mr. Gass has resulted in the birth of the following children: Oliver T., Charles U., William E., Ida R. and Earnest F. | Soon after his marriage Mr. Gass began farming on the old home I farm, and in 1S74 he engaged in carpentering, which he followed 1 for eight )-ears. He then purchased his father's home farm, and there farmed until the spring of 1S89, since w-hen he has resided in Bremen, operating a meat market. He and wife are leading members of the German Lutheran church, and he is one of the prosperous and enterprising citizens, and enjoys the high esteem of all who know him.

Henry M. Garver, a native of Elkhart county, Ind., was born I September 11, 1S40, the son of John S. and Mary (Stutzman) Garver. The parents were born in Ohio, and in an early day the father settled in Michigan, and the mother settled in Elkhart county, Ind., and in the latter county the parents were united in marriage, which union has resulted in the birth of twelve children, two of whom are deceased. In 1855 the parents settled in Union township, Marshall county, where they still reside. The father, by occupation a farmer, is one of the most extensive land owners of the county, and is among the oldest and best respected citizens of the township in which he resides. Henry M. Garver was reared on a farm and was given a fair country school education for his day. He worked on the farm with his father till he was past twenty-three years of age, and then left the parental home and began a life for himself, choosing agriculture for his occupation. In 1861 he was united in marriage with Caroline Thomas, a native of Ohio, a union blessed with the birth of four children, namely: Melvin, Lizzie, John E. and Nettie; in 1876 the mother's death occurred, and in 1S78 Mr. Garver married for a second wife, Mrs. Cornelia (York) Baughman. In 1S78 Mr. Garver removed from a farm in Green township to P.lj-mouth, where he lived but a short time, and in August, 1878, he located in Bremen, w^here he has since remained engaged in the hotel and livery business. He ran the Thompson house until February 4, 1880, when the house was burned down. This rnisfortune was a severe financial blow to Mr. Garver, but through energy and successful management he has almost recovered from his loss. He is now proprietor of the Garver house, of Bremen, and in connection with the hotel he has a well-stocked liver}^ stable. As a business man Mr. Garver is practical and judicious. As a citizen he is progressive and well-respected, and in politics he is a zealous and ardent worker in the democratic party. He is a member of the Bremen lodge. No. 414, F. & A. M., and belongs to the Bremen K. O. T. M.

Edw. Geiselman was born in German township, Marshall county, September 22, 1866, and is a son of Josiah Geiselman, an early settler of the county. He was reared on a farm and obtained a common school education, which he completed In the

Bremen schools. He left the farm at the age of sixteen years, and in Bremen learned the painter's trade. He visited Kansas for a short time and then returned to Bremen, and in January of 1887, became proprietor of the Bremen Marble works, dealing in marble and granite monuments, headstones and building stones. As a stone cutter, Mr. Geiselman is a skillful workman, and his work consists in making all designs from the simplest to the most elaborate and beautiful, running from the cheapest to the most expensive. He is prepared to do any work desired of a stone mason. He is an enterprising, energetic young man, and practical in business affairs, and has established an increasing trade in Bremen and other places, and has two traveling salesmen employed. His annual sales will run from $4,000 to $6,000. He began with a very limited capital and is now a prosperous and responsible business man. In iSSg he was united in marriage to Miss Ida Wahl, of Bremen, and a daughter of Michael VVahl. Mr. and Mrs. Geiselman enjoy a high social standing and are well respected citizens.

Josiah Geiselman was born in Stark county, Ohio, December IQ, 1826, and is the oldest of the following children, born unto Michael and Eliza (Hufferd) Geiselman: Josiah, Elijah W., James D., Jacob H. and Malinda. The father was born in Pennsylvania and the mother in Maryland, each of German descent. These parents were married in Stark county, Ohio, where they lived till in 1834, when the family removed to St. Joseph county, Ind., and settled in the wilderness. Here they continued to live for many years, the mother dying here. The father who was a blacksmith by trade and a farmer by occupation, in old age lived with our subject, at whose home he died. Josiah Geiselman was reared and educated on a farm, and learned of his father his first knowledge of blacksmithing. His mother died when he was only fourteen, and at this early age he began the struggle of life, becoming his own support. He lived in Michigan, and worked at black^iithing for a while at first, then returned to St. Joseph county and finished learning his trade. In 1846 he located just east of what is now Bremen, in Marshall county, and followed his trade till in 1848, when he built the second building of the town of Bremen, where he followed his trade up to 1855, when he went to Iowa, returning in 1S60, working until 1864, in which year he abandoned blacksmithing and took up saw-milling, and since has been engaged in both saw-milling and farming, but of late years only farming. In 1866, he located on his present farm in German township, and where he now resides. In 1849, he married Mary Ringle, born in Stark county, Ohio, April 4, 1828; and the marriage gave issue to the birth of the following children: Eliza, John D., Nathan H., Edward, Jacob, Emaline, Cora E.and others that died in early life. Mr. and Mrs. Geiselman are members of

Charles H. Gollatz, a veterinary surgeon, of Bremen, has had an extensive practice in this state elsewhere. He is well versed in his profession, and successfully treats diseases of horses and cattle. Mr. Gollatz was born in the kingdom of Prussia, Germany, March 12, 1849, and is a son of Charles and Wilhelmina (Britziuietz) Gollatz, both natives of Germany, in which country they died, the father dying in the German army. There were but two children, namely: Mary and Charles H. In 1852, with an uncle, the children came to Canada, and later to Michigan, where Mary was married and now lives. At the age of fifteen years Charles H. went to New York city and followed canal boating for about three 3'ears. From New York city he went to Springfield, Mass., and entered a veterinary hospital, and for two and a half years studied veterinary surgery. Then for a short time he was in Michigan, where he practiced his chosen profession, and in 1875 came to Indiana and located at Bremen, where he has since remained. He has had an increasing patronage in veterinary work, and through a wide experience and a close and continued study he has become skillful and successful in his profession. He supplies himself with the latest publications on surgery, and has a full equipment of instruments for the practice. He is a progressive and energetic man, self-made, and worthy of commendation. When a youth he was given a fair common school education in the schools of Canada, and at fifteen he began the struggle of life for himself, a poor boy. He has since achieved success in his various undertakings, and is one of Bremen's most worthy citizens. He married Mrs. Susan Phelps, ncc Condo, who was born April 7, 1847. 'The children are: Wilhelmina, Elsie, Charles H. and Jacob F.

S. J. Hayes, attorney at law, of Bremen, was born in Crawfordsville, Ind., January ig, 1S50. He is a son of Aaron L. and Mary (White) Hayes. The father and mother were natives of Montgomery county, Ohio, and their births occurred in the years 1825 and 1827, repectively, both born of Scotch and Irish extraction. The mother came to Montgomery county, Ind., with her parents as early as 1829, and the father became a resident of the same county in 1832. The marriage of Aaron L. and Mary Hayes was consummated in Crawfordsville, Ind., and their union resulted in the birth of si.x children, namel}': Elizabeth, Samuel J., Thomas B., Rosa, Jennie and May. The father was a farmer by occupation, which he followed till in 1856, since which time he has been a minister of the gospel in the Methodist Episcopal church, and is now a resident minister of Rankin, 111., where the mother died in April of 1890. Samuel J. Hayes, the immediate subject of this sketch, was given a fair common school education in the graded schools of Indiana and Illinois, and completed a classical course in the Illinois state university, at Champaign, which he attended three years. For two j'ears in Rankin, 111., he was engaged in merchandising, but his store being burned out by accident, he then suspended merchandising, and then began the study of law, entering the law department at Ann Arbor, Mich., from which he graduated in 1876. Mr. Hayes then located at Buchanan, Mich., where he remained but a few months, and in 1S76 located in Bremen, Ind., where he has since remained, his law practice increasing each year. In 1876 he was united in marriage with Miss Annie E. Clark, who was born in Buchanan, Mich., August 26, 1853. The marriage has been blessed by the birth of the following offspring: Clark, Dallas, May, Zeta and Harold. Mr. Hayes is in the true sense of the term a self-made man. He has practiced in this and surrounding counties, and is regarded as a man possessed of ability in his profession, and as having a good legal mind. He was once the republican candidate for prosecuting attorney of the 41st Indiana district. He is and has been for several years town attorney of the town of Bremen. He is credited with being an honest and conscientious worker in the practice of law, and does whatever he performs with sincerity, and is a careful and judicious advocate, ranking among the ablest of his profession. He is a member of the Bremen lodge, No. 414, F. & A. M., and as a citizen he is progressive and enterprising.

Jacob Heckaman, one of the oldest and earliest settlers of German township, was born in Lancaster county, Penn., August 7, 1812, and is one of fourteen children born to Samuel and Margaret (Miller) Heckaman, who were natives of Pennsylvania, of German descent. In 1829 the parents removed from their native state to Ohio, and settled in Stark county, where they thereafter lived and died. The subject of this sketch was raised to farming and blacksmithing, and received a fair education in the German language. Owing to his parents being poor, he found it necessary to become his own supporter, and at an early age he worked at various kinds of work, but mainly at the blacksmith's trade, which, together with farming, he has followed up to within the last few years. In 1834 he was married to Elizabeth Shearer, who was born in Stark county, Ohio, September 19, 1814. The marriage resulted in the birth of the following children: John, Sarah Ann, Mary, Samuel, Emanuel, Rachel, Philip, William, Jacob, Margaret and Adam. After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Heckaman settled down in life in the woods on a farm in Stark county, Ohio, where they lived till in 1839, when they came to Indiana, settling in German township, this county, in the spring of 1840, and here they have since continued long and useful lives. When they settled here the surrounding countrj- was a 22 - B.

wilderness and the Indians were still numerous. They have lived in the county for over fifty years, and are among the oldest and best respected citizens. By hard toil, honesty and frugality, they have gained a good home, name, and character. They have been life-long members of the German Lutheran church, and they enjoy the esteem and confidence of all who know them.

John Heckaman, the oldest son of Jacob Heckaman, was born in Stark county, Ohio, October 10, 1834, and was but five years old when brought to Marshall county by his parents. He was reared on the farm and gained a limited common school education. In 1856 he was united in marriage with Catherine Wyraugh, born in Germany, April 23, 1836. Unto the marriage there have been born five children that have grown to years of maturity, viz.: George, Mary, Edward, John W., and Jacob H. Mr. Heckaman followed farming up to 1870, when he became a citizen of Bremen, where he lived for fifteen years, serving ten years as justice of the peace. In 1885 he removed out to his farm, in this township, where he now lives. He has held several minor township offices, and for the last several }'ears has been township assessor, and is the present incumbent. In politics he is a staunch democrat. October 14, 1864, he became a private in Company F, Forty-second Indiana infantry, being discharged by reason of close of war, June 20, 1865.

James B. Huff, a representative farmer and leading citizen of German township, was born in said township, August 2, 1S56, and is a son of Philip Huff, an early and well-known settler of Marshall county. Our subject was born and reared on a farm, and given a fair education in the country schools. He worked on the farm with his father till he was past twenty-one years of age, and December 23, 1877, was united in marriage with Mary M. Heckaman, who w-as born in German township, November 2, 1858, a union blessed with the birth of the following children: Nella M., Oliver C. (deceased), Cora E., Elvin and Alvin (twins and deceased), Earl E. and Bertha C. Farming has been Mr. Huff's occupation, and as a farmer he is one of the most practical and successful in the county. He owns a well improved farm, consisting of 200 acres situated in sections 6 and 5, of German township. He has never aspired to a public career, but has lived the life of a well-respected and independent farmer. His wife is a member of the German Lutheran church, and in politics he is an unwavering democrat, and enjoys the esteem and confidence of his fellow townsmen.

Melkous Heinke, a farmer by occupation, and a citizen of German township was born in Saxon, Germany, June 13, 1830. He is a son of Jacob and Sophia (Franklin) Heinke. Both the father and mother were natives of Saxon, Germany, and unto their marriage were born three children: Sophia, Melkous and

Jacob. In 1S36 the parents and children emigrated to the United States, and for a short time lived in Buffalo, N. Y., where the father followed his trade of a wagon-maker. In the spring of 1S37 the family settled in Stark county, Ohio, where the father continued up to 1S43, when he removed his family to St. Joseph county, Ind., where he settled in the woods and took up farming for an occupation. In this county the mother died in 1875, aged seventy-four years. In 1S82 the father removed alone to Kansas, where he died in 1885, aged eighty-three years. Melkous Heinke, the subject of this sketch, was raised and educated on a farm, and farming has been his occupation throughout life. He was married in 1S52 to Elizabeth Roth, who was born in Baden, Germany, April 5, 1S32, and unto their marriage there have been born four children that have reached maturity, namely: William, Philip, Mary and Sarah. Soon after his marriage Mr. Heinke settled down in life on his present farm in German township, and here he has lived the honest and industrious life of a successful farmer. He owns a well improved farm of 140 acres, and is one of the well respected citizens of his community.

George Helmlinger, a prominent merchant of Bremen, was born in Stark county, Ohio, April 11, 1839, and is a son of Christian and Margaret (Chlemmer) Helmlinger. The father was born in Alsace, Germany, in 1S04, and in his native schools gained a thorough education in both German and French, and for ten years taught both languages in Alsace. The mother was also born in Alsace, Germany. She died in St. Joseph county, where the father now resides. Unto Christian and Margaret Helmlinger there were born the following children: Sophia, Christian, Jacob, George, Philip and Louisa. The first two were born in Alsace, Germany, the others in the United States. In 1835 the parents emigrated to America and settled in Stark county, Ohio, where they resided until 1841, when they removed to St. Joseph county, Ind. Since coming to the United States the father has followed farming for an occupation. He resides on the old homestead where he settled in 1841, and is one of the oldest pioneers of St. Joseph county. His parents in a few years after his coming to America, came also, and died in Indiana. Their only daughter married in Philadelphia and died there. George Helmlinger, the subject of this sketch, was reared on a farm and received a limited education in the early schools of Indiana. Under the instruction of his father he gained a fair education in the German language. He left the father's home, at the age of sixteen years, and began work at the shoemaker's trade, which he followed exclusively for a number of years. In 1863 he began merchandising, which he has since continued in St. Joseph, Elkhart and Marshall counties, and since 1872 has continuously been in business at Bremen. He began life a poor man, but by a practical business career he has grown prosperous and now has a lucrative trade established, doing an annual business of about $iS,ooo in general merchandise. In 1859, March 10, he was married unto Caroline Bauer, born in Stark county, Ohio, October 3, i84i,of German parentage. The marriage occurred in Bremen, and has resulted in the birth of five deceased and two living children. Those that live are William and Henry. Mr. and Mrs. Helmlinger are members of the German Lutheran church, a^d are among the leading and best respected families of Bremen.

N. A. Herring, M. D., was born in Goshen, Ind., December 27, 1856. His father, Frederick Herring, was born in Prussia, Germany, October 30, 181 2. The father grew to manhood in his native country, where he received a common school education, which was supplemented by a thorough course in classics, sciences and medicines, by attendance at the better academies and colleges of Germany. After completing his medical education Frederick Herring began the practice of his chosen profession in Germany, where he continued until May 13, 1S55, when he emigrated with his wife and six children to the United States, subsequently making a permanent settlement in Goshen, Elkhart county, Ind., where he has continued an active and successful career as a physician. He is considered among the most able and skillful physicians of northern Indiana. His marriage was consummated in Germany with Amelia Wolf, a native of Prussia, born June 24, 1815, which union resulted in the birth of eight children, namely: Frederick A., Mollie, Milla, Christian J., John H., Paul, Nathaniel A. and Elizabeth; the first six being born in Germany; the last two in Goshen, Ind. Of the sons, one is a leading attorney of Chicago, 111., and two are practicing physicians. Nathaniel A., the immediate subject of this biography, is a resident physician of Bremen, Ind. He was reared in Goshen, where he received a high school education, and attended two terms at the Hillsdale college, of Michigan, subsequently completing a special course in the Indiana State university, at Bloomington. In 1876 he began the study of medicine under the guidance of his father, and later began the practice of his profession in Elkhart county. In 1S7S he entered the " Bennett Eclectic Medical college, of Chicago," where he completed his medical education, graduating in 18S0. In the summer of 1880 he located at Bremen, where he has since continued an active and remunerative practice, with an increasing patronage. He is regarded as a successful practitioner, and ranks with the foremost of his profession in this county. In 1881 he was united in marriage with Miss Lucy E., daughter of John' J. Wright, a well-known citizen of Bremen. Mrs. Herring was born in Chicago, III., March 7, 1858, and her marriage with Mr. Herring has been blessed by the birth of one child, Freddie J. Dr. and Mrs. Herring are members of the Congregational church, and are among the leading people of Bremen. Dr. Herring Is a representative and progressive citizen, and is a recognized friend to churches, schools, public improvement, enterprise, and whatsoever concerns the public welfare.

John Huff, a furniture dealer and undertaker of Bremen, was born In Bucks township, Tuscarawas county, Ohio, October 27, 1843. He Is the son of Francis tnd Margaret (Gass) Huff. The parents were born In Reinbeir, Germany, the father in 1S18, the mother In 1819. The father was a son of Francis and Elizabeth Huff, natives of Germany, and unto them there were born these children: Francis, Jacob, Elizabeth and Kasarlna. The parents emigrated to America In 1S36, and settled In Ohio. They died in Marshall county, and lie buried at Bremen. Their son, Francis, was a farmer by occupation, and was married In Tuscarawas county, Ohio, where he lived and died, his death occurring In 1872. His widow still resides on the old homestead. The marriage resulted In the birth of the following children: John, Elizabeth (deceased), Charles, Kasarlna, Jacob, and Francis (deceased). John, the oldest, and the subject of this mention, was raised on a farm and ^Iven a limited education. Upon reaching his majority, he came to Bremen, Ind., where he has since resided. Up to 1880 he followed house carpentering. Since this date he has been engaged in the merchandising of furniture and in the undertaker's trade. In October, 1867, he was married to Christine Gass, who was born In Germany, March 12, 1843. The marriage has been blessed by the birth of two children, viz.: Elnora M. and Clayton E. Mr. and Mrs. Huff are members of the German Lutheran church, and are well respected. He is a prosperous businessman of Bremen, of whose popular fire department he is a member. In politics he Is a democrat.

William Huff was born in Reinbeir, Germany, February 27, 1832, and Is a son of Philip and Catherine (Lahm) Huff. The parents were born In Reinbeir, Germany, and were married in their native country, and In about 1835, emigrated to America and settled In Tuscarawas county, Ohio, and later In 1S51, located in German township, this county, where both died. Unto the marriage of the parents there were born ten children, namely, Louisa, Philip, Rebecca, Caroline, Charles, William, Frances, Jacob, Noah and Soloman. The first six were born in Germany, the others in the United States. The father was a farmer by occupation, and both father and mother were members of the German Presbyterian church. The father died in 1873, aged eightytwo years, and the mother in 1878, aged seventy-eight years. Their son William was reared on a farm and given a common school education. He remained on the farm with his father till twent)' years of age, at which time he took up the carpenter's trade, and followed the same until the year 1867. Since then he has been engaged in saw-milling and lumbering, in which he has amassed considerable wealth. At present he and sons are interested in an agricultural store in Bremen. Mr. Huff was married in 1S58, wedding Eliza Annis, born in Indiana, in 1838. The children that have been born unto the marriage are: Francette; Flora E., deceased; Eva, Clynton, Erven and F'rank A. Mr. Huff is a member of the Evangelical church, and his wife a member of the United Brethren church. In politics he is a staunch democrat, and has held several positions of honor and trust in the township. In 1880, he was elected trustee of German township, and was re-elected in 1882. He served two terms and made a good officer. He is a representative and enterprising citizen, enjoying the esteem and confidence of his fellow townsmen.

William H. Huff, a saw-mill operator and lumber dealer of Bremen, was born in Marshall county, Ind., March 16, 1S52, the son of Philip and Lydia (Keyser) Huff. The father was born in Reinbier, Germany, June 30, 1820, and was a son of Philip and Catherine (Lahm) Huff, natives also of the same country. They emigrated to America in about 1835, settling in Tuscarawas county, Ohio. Our subject's father came'with his parents, and January 23, 1845, i" the above county, was united in marriage with Lydia Keyser. To this marriage there were born the following children: John P., deceased; Eliza, Elizabeth, William, Harriet, James B., Catherine, Charles F., George W., Weaker M. and Philip. November iq, 1846, the parents came to Marshall county, Ind., and settled on a farm in German township. The father was a farmer by occupation, and on coming to this country, settled in the woods, for at that time this vast domain of northern Indiana was in a wilderness state. The parents were of the Albright church faith, and enjoyed the esteem of a wide acquaintance. The father died, but the mother still survives and resides in the township. William H., the subject of this sketch, was raised on a farm and given a fair education in the country schools, which were in his day, very poor. By more or less reading, and by a wide experience, he has gained a knowledge of the world and of business, and is conversant with such subjects as concern the education of to-day. He remained under the parental roof till near twenty-two years of age, and then with a -limited capital, began the battle of life as a farmer. In 1876 he was united in marriage with Caroline Paige, who was born April 19, 1S54, in Marshall county. This union has been blessed by the birth of the following children: Myrah, Olive, Arthur W. and Alice. Mr. Huff farmed but a short time, and then engaged in saw-milling and lumbering, in which he has been engaged for over twelve years. In this pursuit through his practical ability as a business man, he has been very successful, and from a man of Hmited means he has grown to be prosperous, and is now one of the foremost business men of Bremen. In connection with Jacob Carbiener he has operated at Bremen a stationary sawmill, of an annual capacity of one and a half million feet of lumber. Mr. Huff is a self-made and progressive citizen. He is a member of the Bremen lodge. No. 414, F. & A. M., and in politics an ardent democrat. He enjoys the esteem of his fellow townsmen, and is one of their leading and enterprising citizens. Jacob C. Kaufman, one of German township's leading citizens, was born in Canton, Ohio, October 28, 1S3S, and is a son of John Kaufman, a pioneer settler of German township. John Kaufman was born in Grand Duchy of Baden, Germany, June 15, 1801. October 21, 1825, in his native land he was united in marriage with Catherine Adler, who was born in the same locality. This marriage resulted in the birth of the following offspring: John, Mathias, Caroline, Catherine, George, Jacob C, Elizabeth, Maria L., Margaret and Amelia. The first two were born in German}', the others in Canton, Ohio. In 1832, the parents and the first two children immigrated from Germany to America, and settled in Canton, Ohio, and in 1849 the father purchased a land warrant for 160. acres in German township, Marshall Co., Ind., from a Mexican soldier, and after visiting the land determined upon removing his family to the same, which he did in 1850, locating in the woods. Here he spent the remainder of his life as did also his wife. She died April 15, 1872, aged sixtythree years, six months and twenty-eight days. He died June 2, 1881. The father was a turner by trade, and in his native country followed his trade as a journeyman. He resided in Canton, Ohio, nearly eighteen years, devoting his time to his trade, and on coming to Marshall county he followed his trade in connection with farming. He and wife were universally respected. He was an honest and industrious citizen, and in politics either a staunch whig or republican. His old homestead is still owned and cultivated by his son, Jacob C, who is the direct subject of this sketch. Jacob C. was but twelve years of age when his parents settled in German township, where he was reared to farming, receiving a fair country school education for his day. He remained under the parental roof till September 13, 1862, when he enlisted as a private in Company C, Twentieth Indiana volunteer infantry. He was discharged at Camp Alexandria, Va., as a private in Companj' F, of the same regiment, on the 31st of May, 1S65. Among the several engagements in which he participated were Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettj^sburg, Locust Grove, Spottsylvania Court House and others. After being honorably discharged by reason of the close of the war, he returned to Marshall county, and October 13, 1866, was married to Gather- ine Casper, born in Stark count}-, Ohio, Marcli 5, 1839. After the marriage Mr. Kaufman settled down in life as a renter upon his father's farm, which farm he purchased in 1872. He is a practical and successful farmer, and a representative citizen. In politics he is a republican. In iSSS the people of German township elected him for their township trustee, and he has just closed a successful term in this capacit)'. He is a member of the G. A. R., of the Bremen post, and is a member of Bremen lodge, No. 414, F. & A. M.

Alasalom Keyser, a native of Tuscarawas, Ohio, was born February 18, 1841, and is one of the following children born unto Solomon and Sarah (Domer) Keyser: Lydia, Elizabeth, Jacob, Absalom, Sarah, and others that died in early life. The father and mother were born in Pennsylvania in the years 1805 and 1806, respectively, both of German descent. The father was a farmer by occupation, and in 185 1 removed his family to Indiana, and settled in German township, this county. He settled in the woods and brought into a state of cultivation the present homestead of the subject of this sketch, where he lived till his death in 1875. I" 1851, in partnership with Philip Huff, he built the first steam saw-mill in German township, and continued to operate the same for eleven years, when it was purchased by Martin Kelley. This pioneer settler was a wellknown and respected citizen, was a moral, sober and industrious man, and a zealous member of the United Brethren church. His widow, also a member of this church, is now past eighty-six years of age, and resides with our subject. Mr. Keyser was about ten years of age when his parents came to this count3^ and he was raised and educated on the farm, and his entire life has been devoted to farming as an occupation. As a farmer he is considered very successful, and he owns a well improved place. April 28, 1878, he married Elizabeth Boyer, who was born in Marshall county, April 7, 185S. Unto this marriage have been born three children, namely: Oscar, Franklin and Floyd.

Zachariah Keyser was born in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, March 14, 1S34, and is a son of Daniel and Sarah (Fisher) Keyser. Both the father and m.other were born in Pennsylvania, of Dutch descent, the former in 1798, and the lafter in 1806, and in an early day they came with their parents to Ohio, where their marriage was consummated. To this marriage there were born the following children: Rosann, Benjamin, Jonathan, Mary, Zachariah, Eliza, Peter, Daniel, Jeremiah and Annie, all of whom, excepting Jonathan, Mar}', Zachariah and Eliza, are deceased. Benjamin, Peter, Daniel and Jeremiah were soldiers in the civil war, in which they lost their lives. The father was a farmer by occupation, and in February, 1849, settled on a farm in the woods of German township, where he lived a long and useful life, dying in a ripe old age, respected by all who knew him. Our subject was born and raised on a farm and here he has spent his life at hard work tilling the soil, and although he began in life without a dollar, he has gained a good home and established a good name and character. In 1861 he was united in marriage with Jane Medcalf, who was born near Bremen, Ind., in 1845. Unto this marriage there have been born these cjiildren: William, Phila, Ella, Clinton, Elveretta, George and Delia. Mr. Keyser is a well respected citizen and a representative farmer, owning and cultivating a good farm of 150 acres in German township. He is a staunch democrat in politics.

Harmon Knobloch, a resident farmer of German township, was born in Stark county, Ohio, September 29, 1842. He is a son of Jacob Knobloch, who was born in Alsace, Germany, in 1803. Jacob was reared in his native country where he learned the stone-mason's trade and plastering. In 1823, in company with his brother Frederick, he emigrated to the United States, and subsequently settled in Canton, Ohio, where he was married to Margaret Keller, a native of Switzerland. She became the mother of the following children, and then her death occurred: Henry; Josephine, deceased; Jackson, Benjamin, Harmon, Franklin and Elnora. Subsequently the father married a second time, and his widow now lives in Bremen. This second marriage resulted in the birth of the following children: Caroline, Charles, Louis, Edward, James and Clara. Jacob Knobloch worked at his trade in Canton, Ohio, where he resided, until the fall of 1850, when he removed his family to Indiana, and located in the woods of German township, this county. After coming to Indiana he followed his trade and farming until 1865, when he removed into Bremen and built a hotel which he kept until 1869, when his death occurred. He was a Free Mason, and a charter member of the Plymouth lodge. He being a stone-mason, he cut the headstone that marks his resting place in the Bremen cemetery, and on it he carved the square and compass, the emblems of his order. He was a worthy and well respected citizen, in politics a staunch democrat, and held in life several positions of honorand trust in the county. Harmon Knobloch, the immediate subject of this sketch, was reared and educated on a farm. June 16, 1864, he was united in marriage with Sarah Mathes, born in New York, December2S, 1848. The followingare the names of their children: Nella, Lillie, deceased, and Arthur. Since his marriage Mr. Knobloch has remained on the old homestead where his father settled in the county, and has led a successful life in farming. Besides farming he was also, from 1866-74, engaged in saw-milling. He and wife are members of the German Presbyterian church, and are among the highly respected families of the community. In politics he is a zealous democrat. In the spring of

18S4 he was elected township trustee, and was re-elected in 1SS6. He is a member of the Bremen lodge, No. 414, F. & A. M., and is one of the well respected farmers and citizens of German township.

Christian Knoepfle, one of Bremen's enterprising business men, was born in Wurtemburg, Germany, April 23, 1835, and received a fair German education in his native schools. In earlyyouth he learned the cabinet-maker's trade, and in 1872, at the age of seventeen years, he emigrated to the United States alone, coming direct to Bremen, Ind., where he has since resided. At once he secured a situation at his trade with Christian Seller, for whom he worked six years; after which he worked for John J. Wright, in the bending factory for six years, and in 1884 formed a partnership with Jacob Vollmer, and began the manufacturing of laths, shingles and dressed lumber. In 1S7S he married Miss Caroline Vollmer, born in Bremen, August i, 1856, of German parentage. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Knoepfle there have been born five children, namely: Charles F. W., Doretha, Otto, Annie and Meina. Mr. and Mrs. Knoepfle are members of the German Lutheran church, in Bremen, of which he is elder and a trustee. He is one of the representative citizens of Bremen, being one of its board of councilmen, and he is also one of the charter members of the excellent fire department, and a well respected citizen.

Adam Koontz was born in Alsace, France (now Germany), April 22, 1838, and is a son of Adam and Elizabeth (Parson) Koontz. Both parents were born in Alsace, where they were raised and married. The following are the names of their children: Elizabeth, Caroline (deceased), Dorotha, Catherine (deceased), Margaret, Adam, Magdaline, John (deceased), and Peter. In 1847 the parents emigrated to the United States and settled in German township, Marshall count3^ Ind., on a tract of land, a part of which is now the Koontz addition in the town of Bremen, where they lived and died. They were members of the German Evangelical Association church, and the father was a farmer by occupation. The mother died at Bremen in 1855, aged fifty-two years. The father died in 1887. aged ninety-one years. Adam was only eight years old when his parents came to this country. He was raised on a farm, and learned both English and German languages. He worked on the farm with his father up to the beginning of the civil war, and on January 16, 1862, he enlisted in the Fifteenth Indiana battery as a private. Briefly stated, the following is his military record: Harper's Ferry, Va., there taken prisoner, and on the following morning was paroled and taken to Chicago, where he was exchanged. Then at Indianapolis received a new outfit and was armed and placed back in the service, assisted in the chase and capture of Morgan, marched through Kentucky, on to east Tennessee, joining Burnside and taking part in tlie defense of Knoxville when besieged by Longstreet; and after the east Tennessee campaign was in the Atlanta campaign under Sherman. Then under Thomas to Nashville, fighting at Columbia, Franklin and Nashville, and was sent to Washington and on to Wilmington and Raleigh, N.C., and from Raleigh was sent to Indiana, where he was discharged June 30, 1865, as a second lieutenant. On leaving the service he returned to Marshall, where he has since lived, following farming for an occupation. In October, of 1871, he was united in marriage with Kate Allen, born in Pennsylvania, January 2Q, iSsi. The following are their children: Mabel A., John R. S., Ida A. M., Milton G. N., Burt O. L., Clarence A., George W., and Milo C. E. Mr. Koontz began life with no capital other than willing hands, but he has been successful, and owns a well-improved farm of eighty-nine acres. He is a fair and liberal minded man, and in politics a republican, and is one of the leading citizens of German township. He gives considerable attention to bee culture, in which he is quite proficient, and at this time has an apiary of about fifty hives.

Rev. C. H. Lueker, pastor of the Bremen German Lutheran church, was born in Prussia, Germany, October 12, 1843, and is a son of Gottlieb and Sophia (Hagemier) Lueker. The parents were born, reared and married in Prussia, and unto their marriage there were born the following children: Frederick, Charles H., Gottlieb, Sophia, Henry, Louisa, William, and Annie L. Lueker. In 1857 the parents immigrated to the United States and settled in Madison county. 111. Here the father died in 1881, aged si.xty-six years. The mother still resides in that count}' and state. When his parents immigrated to this country our subject was about fifteen years of age. In Germany he had gained a fair German education, and in 1S63 he entered the Concordia Theological college of the German Lutheran church, at St. Louis, where he graduated in 1867. From 1867 to 1869 he had charge of a congregation in Cape Girardeau county. Mo., and then from 1869 to 1888, had charge of a congregation in Dickinson county, Kas. In November of 1888 he took charge of the church at Bremen, and beside the Bremen congregation he has charge of others at Woodland and near Plymouth. In Madison county, 111., in 1867, he was united in marriage with Sophia Lueker, born in Prussia, Germany, June 30, 1S48. Unto the marriage there have been born Martin, Clarrie, Bertha, Henry, Louis, Carl, Sophia, Adolph, deceased, August and Lydia.

William B. Macomber, a citizen of German township, is the subject of the following biography. Sometime prior to the French and Indian war (1754-63) there emigrated to America from Scotland three brothers, one of whom settled near Boston, Mass., one near Concord, N. H., and one near Niagara Falls, in