Noble County, Indiana - The whole text, 1902 (part 12 of 21)

As he grew older he assisted in whatever work he could perform, sometimes picking up brush, hoeing corn, chopping wood, pulling flax or grinding hark at the tanyard, the latter occupation being especially distasteful to him. It was a proud day when he was large enough to exchange the hoe for the plow handle, and he then made a vow to himself that he would become a farmer, while his older brother, David, chose the occupation of a tanner. While Samuel, subject of sketch, kept up his work during the summer, he was a close student in the winter months and was storing up much useful information. He continued to attend school until the fall of 1839, when a brother, Daniel, returned from his home in Indiana for a short visit, and the stories he spun of life in the western state caused young Samuel. to long for a glimpse of the new country, and he decided to return with Daniel. As they were not provided with horses they made the trip on foot, and before they got through the black swamps and to their destination Samuel thought it a dreary journey. He remained but a short time until he walked back to his home iu Ohio, where he continued doing farm work the fi llowing summer. It was in that year that the elder Harrison made his memorable campaign, and young Ohlwine took a lively interest in it, assisting with all his might in the log raising and singing of campaign songs and other excitements incident to that well-remembered year when "Tippecanoe and Tyler, too" made the welkin ring. In the spring of 1841 he went to visit a brother and sister who were living in Illinois, and he remained there during the summer, working on a farm for ten dollars per month. He returned home in the fall and resumed his school-work, but in the spring accepted the position of teacher in the same school, where he taught also the following winter and worked at any employment he could find during the summer.

In 1845 Mr. Ohlwine crossed the Mississippi river to find a home in the prairies of Iowa. But the country there did not suit him, and in October of the same year he packed his household goods and returned as far east as Noble county, Ind.. where a brother and sister were living in Sparta township. He lived with his brother until the winter, when he moved into a little cabin which stood on his brother's place and which he had fixed up for use. So well was he pleased with the country of Indiana that he wished to buy land and make it his permanent home. The land he coveted was in the reserve and was appraised at five dollars per acre, although by using canal script, or blue-dog currency, it could be had at fifty per cent, discount. Collecting all his available money, he mounted his horse in January and set out for the land office in Delphi, but upon reaching there he found blue-dog currency was far below par and he was short of the required amount. Sadly disappointed, he returned home to tell his family that the quest had been in vain: but still he was not without hope, and when a neighbor started for the land office the following spring Mr. Ohlwine gave him all the money he could raise, with instructions to try to buy the much-desired land. Strange to say,, the fluctuating value of the currency was such that at this time it was found to be adequate, and Mr. Ohlwine became possessed of his present farm. While neighbors were few and far between, he alwaysfound ready helpers in Daniel Ohlwine and Henry Weade, and their kindness made the early years in this section much more endurable. In the fall of 1847 ms father asked him to return to Ohio and assist his youngest brother, Charles, in carrying on the farm. As Samuel had no team up to this time, he accepted his father's proposition and for three years cultivated the home place. It was then sold and he was free to return to his land in Indiana, reaching there in October, 1850. He at once began clearing off his land, this work being prosecuted during the summer, while the winter was devoted to teaching, a vocation in which he was engaged, in all, twenty-one terms.

Mr. Ohlwine was married April 13,. 1843, to Miss Eliza Ann Hopping, who bore him a family of four children, namely : Jasper N., Martha Jane, John Ouincy and Mary Ann. John Ouincy died March 6, 1866, and on January 7, 1877, the loving wife and mother passed away. Mr. Ohlwine then placed at the head of his household Miss Helen Brtnninger, born January 28, 1853, to whom he was united December 18, 1879, and who was a former pupil of Mr. Ohlwine.

charge the duties devolving upon him that he was re-elected three times, holding the position for twelve consecutive years. During his tenure of office a court house was built, an infirmary was established and a large war debt lifted, leaving- Noble county free from indebtedness for the first time since its organization. In 1874. he was candidate for state representative, but was defeated by a small majority. He has been foremost in all movements which have resulted in permanent good to his locality and has occupied an honorable position among a people who hold him in high esteem. His life has been singularly pure and free from guile, which is doubtless the reason of his great influence on those around him. What he has been to the people of Noble county as a man, a friend, a neighbor and a loyal citizen is well known, and the work that he has accomplished will live and bear fruit for years to come, a lasting monument to the memory of a good man.

George W. Gloyd

A native son of the Hoosier state, George W. Gloyd, was horn on the 8th of December. 1848, on the farm which is his present home in Sparta township. Noble count\". Ind. His father was William Gloyd. a son of William Gloyd, a son of Daniel Gloyd. David Gloyd and his father were patriots, having been participants in the American war for independence, and the former was wounded at the battle of Bunker Hill. George W. Gloyd now possesses and uses constantly a razor, over a century and a half old. which was used by Daniel

The father of George W.. William Gloyd, Jr., was born January 5, 1814, in Virginia. His father was the owner of a large slave plantation in the Old Dominion, once the property of Major Lewis, a stepson-in-law to George Washington. He did not wish, however, that his children should be reared under the influence of some of the institutions of the south, particularly slavery, so he left his old home and went to Licking county. Ohio. Thete William Gloyd, Sr., remained until he finally removed to Allen county, Ind., about 1838. He remained there until his death, which occurred at the home of his son Georg'e in December. 1842. William Gloyd, Jr.. the father of the subject of this sketch, married, about 1834 or 1835, Miss Matilda Beechgood, a native of Maryland. After this event they settled in Newark. Ohio, where for about two years he engaged in teaming. In 1837 they came to Green township. Noble county, Ind., and while here they did the cooking for the men employed on the contemplated canal from Fort Wayne, Ind., to Michigan. After the collapse of this enterprise Mr. Gloyd bought a farm, on which he and his wife died. He passed away February 2j, 1863, and she on December 21, 1885, after having by earnest effort and honest toil opened up a In ane for their children. They had united with the Christian church in 1859. Their children were six in number, and are mentioned briefly as follows: Rebecca and a twin brother were born February 1. 1836, but the latter died in infancy. She became the wife of Jefferson Noe, now deceased, and is the mother of four children, namely: Jeremiah : William ; Clara : and George, the last named deceased. Sarah was born April 13, 1842. and died July 29. 1895. She had been married to Harrison LaFong, and was the mother of three children, George, William and Matilda. Caroline was born July 15, 1845. became the wife of John Foster and is the mother of four children, Etta, Matilda, Bertha and Verna. George W., the fifth child, was born December 8, 1848. William H., born December 23, 1852, married Mar}- Bowers, a daughter of Christopher Bowers, of Noble count}-, Ind. William H. is also a stalwart Republican, and cast his first presidential vote for R. B. Hayes. He was named in honor of General Harrison, and George was named in honor of the father of our country, George Washington, and he cast his first vote for General Grant.

Subject's maternal grandfather, James Berchgccd, was a native of Germany, but after his immigration to the United States proved a loyal defender of his adopted country by enlisting for service during the war of [812. He served under General Jackson, but was not with him at the battle of New Orleans, having been at home on a furlough at that time. His wife, whose maiden name was Nancy Koogle, was about twenty-one years of age when brought to Ohio by her parents, and soon afterward was united in marriage to William Gloyd.

( lei rge W. Gloyd and his brother William have never left the old home place, ami upon the death of their father they purchased the interest of the other heirs in the property. Since then they have added by purchase eighty acres, so that at the present time they are the owners of two hundred and forty acres of fine agricultural property.

active and uncompromising advocate of Republican principles and casts his ballot in harmony therewith. Religiously he and his relatives are members of the Christian church at Sparta. By a life of rectitude and honor he has gained an enviable standing in his community. His support has ever been given to all measures for the public good, and at the same time, by judicious management and enterprise, he has won a handsome competence, which enabled him to put aside the more arduous duties of life and rest in the enjoyment of the fruits of his former toil.

Andrew .Unger Miller

Andrew Unger Miller was born June 1 3, 1846, at Millersburg, Elkhart county, Ind., and is a sou of Solomon Miller, founder of the town of Millersburg and a native of Tennessee, and Elizabeth Unger, a native of Pennsylvania, who were married near West Alexandria, Preble county, Ohio, and settled and remained there for eight or ten years. They immigrated to Elkhart county, Ind., and were there engaged in farming until 1885. when he went to his son's home in Kentucky, where he died in 1886. The wife died at Millersburg, March 27. 1896!

The subject of this sketch received his schooling at Millersburg. When sixteen years of age he entered the United States service in Company I. Seventy-fourth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and continued to serve until the close of the war. He was slightly wounded in the hand at the battle of Jonesboro, Ga. Coming home, he farmed one year for his father and then went into the milling business with his brother, T. C. Mil- ler, and continued thereat for seven years. He next farmed as a tenant for two years. In the meantime he purchased a farm in Perry township, Noble county, three and a half miles northeast of Ligonier, and moved on to it in 1874, and there remained until 1896, when he was elected as a Republican to the office of treasurer of Noble count] and changed his residence to Albion, where he still resides. In 1898 he was re-elected to the same office by a greatly increased majority. Such has been the stern integrity, superior business qualifications and blindness to party displayed by him in the discharge of the official duties of said office that his popularity has been greatly increased.

He was married to Miss Charity J. Showalter. an intelligent and highly respectable daughter of David and Mary Shbwalter, both natives of Rockingham county, Virginia, who settled in the western part of Lagrange county, near Millersburg, aboul 1851. To this union were born five children: Harry D., who married .Miss Addie riper, is now a resident of Topeka. Ind., and is the father of one son; Andrew G. ; Leila A. married John \Y. Smith, of Indianapolis; Elvina S., now acting as deputy treasurer of Noble county; Louanna E., wife of Ross Skinner, of Albion, Ind; and Jessie P., now living with her parents.

For ten consecutive years our subject served as assessor of Perry township, lie is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of Ligonier. as well as of the Grand Army of the Republic of the same place. He is not a member of any denomination, but for many years has been a liberal supporter of several churches, especially of the Lutheran church, of which his wife is a member. He is the owner of over two hundred acres of choice, rich land, and has made many valuable improvements thereon, and expects to return to the farm at the expiration of his present term of office; although such retirement is, doubtless, looked forward to with much pleasure by him, it seems to be the general opinion that such anticipated pleasure will ere long be somewhat marred by a voice which he can hardly disregard, saying to him, "Come up higher. * To Mr. Miller nature was lavish in intellectual gifts. He has a retentive memory, and, having a somewhat extra' irdinary taste fi r choice literature, his leisure time has been mainly spent in careful perusal of literary and scientific works of a high order, and, therefore, to a great extent, he has succeeded in overcoming the lack of early educational facilities; and nowhere else have the above tastes and gifts been more brightly displayed than in the great moral training of his bright, intelligent and accomplished children.

Mrs. C. R. Graves

The subject of the following brief biographical mention was born April 4, [847, in Erie county, Ohio, and is a daughter of Sandius and Abigail Ransom, both natives of New York state and residing near New- York City. Mrs. Graves accompanied her parents on their migration to Allen county, Ind., in 1854. and received her preliminary education in the public schools of that county. She completed the a tmmi m-sch< 10I course and at the age of seventeen years commenced teaching school. She generally taught during the winter and spring, while during the fall and early winter she attended Taylor University, at Fort Wayne. From the time she began teaching until her marriage, in 1865, there was no time, with the exception of about two weeks, when she was not either teaching or engaged in some way with educational work.

On the 19th of November, 1865, subject became the wife of Mr. C. R. Graves, a son of James D. Graves, of Allen county, Ind., but formerly of Virginia. After her marriage Mrs. Graves moved to Antwerp, Paulding county, Ohio, and remained there about two vears. From there she went to Monroeville, Ind., and there went into the millinery business for one year, at the end of which time she removed to Decatur. Ind., and was in business there also for one year. From Decatur she came to Ligonier, Noble county, in 1874. and here also started a millinery store. She has now been in business in the same location twenty-eight years, owning the block in which her store is situated. Besides this property Mrs. Graves is also the owner of a fine farm of one hundred acres, a cottage at Rome City, this county, and also a house in Ligonier. She also formerly, for six years, owned a bakery. As showing her enterprise and progressive spirit, it may be stated that Mrs. Graves bought the first automobile owned in Ligonier and the second one in the county, paying fourteen hundred dollars for the machine. It is a fine roadster, one of the best made, and contributes much to the enjoyment of its owner and her friends.

By her marriage with Mr. Graves, subject became the mother of five children, namely: Arthur, who was born November 2. [867; Ona, who was horn July 16, [869, married Ora Dill, and is now a resident of

Ligonier; Mora, born May 4, 1873, is deceased; Millie was born November 30, 1880; and Bert was born in November, 1883. Both of the sons are engaged in the bicycle business, having a repair and supply shop. Mrs. Graves is, and has been for twentysix years, a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Fraternally she is an active member of the Ladies' Relief Corps and an associate member of the Ladies of the Maccabees. One of the prominent characteristics of Mrs. Graves, and one which has- probably as much as anything else contributed to her success, is her promptness and attention to the details of her business. She has earned an enviable reputation in commercial circles for her careful regard for the wants of her patrons. Socially she stands high among her numerous friends, and is held in much respect by the entire community.

William R. Myers

The above-named prosperous and prominent farmer of Orange township. Noble county. Ind., is a worthy son of the Buckeye state, having been born in Summit county, May 23, -1832. to Samuel and Mary (Poules) Myers, natives of Pennsylvania, from which state they emigrated shortly after their marriage, and made their home in Ohio. Like the vast majority of those who seek a new country for the betterment of their financial condition, Mr. Myers was a farmer, and he settled on a tract of land in Summit county, Ohio, where William R. was reared to manhood, obtaining his education through the medium of the primitive schools of that early period. Here the parents of William R. lived for many years, the father dying March 31, 1883, at the age of seventy-seven years and four months; the mother at fifty-nine years, died June 27, 1886. They were the parents of eleven children, William R. being the third in order of birth in this family of five sons and six daughters, of whom eight are yet living.

William R. Myers was nearly thirty years of age when he moved to> Indiana, settling on a tract of land in Orange township, Noble county, in 1801, which has been his home for the past forty years, except two years spent in Rome City. He was married in Elkhart county, Ind., April 24, 1856, to Miss Sarah A. Weikel, who was born in Summit county, Ohio, July 14, 1830. They became the parents of four children, namely : Samuel, who has been twice married, his present wife having formerly borne the name -of Sadie Bnker ; Mary E.. who married Reuben H. Shroyer ; Elmyra, the wife of J. Barker; and Charles E.

Sarah Ann Weikel was born in Springfield. Summit county, Ohio, February 14, 1836, where she lived till she was six years old, losing her mother when but three years | old. After coming to Indiana she made her home with Henry Rowe, at Elkhart, Ind., and was married to William R. Myers Apri 24, 1856. They moved to Ohio, where the_\ lived six years, when they, with two children, came back to Indiana and settled or' the farm where they resided till her death This union was blessed with four children two sons and two daughters, all of whom have families, except the youngest son, who with the father, cared for the mother during her long suffering. She was grandmother of eleven children and great-grandmother to one, who all survive her except one. She was a patient sufferer for many years and died trusting in God, December 7, 1 90 1, being sixty-five years, nine months and twenty-three days old. She was a faithful wife, loving mother and a kind neighbor. We all feel our loss, but our loss is her gain. "God's will be done."

Mr. Myers is one of those kind, genial old gentleman who are a blessing to any community where they reside. He is a Christian gentleman and joined the Lutheran church at the early age of fifteen and has always been loyal to his Maker. He located in section 10. Orange township, Noble county, March 1. 1861, and he and his faithful wife here developed a valuable estate and a lovely home, surrounded by many friends. They practiced strict economy and frugality, and taught these useful traits to their children. He is so well known as a good man and honorable citizen that he needs no especial commendation. He has always been charitable and benevolent to the poor and needy. He has almost passed the line of three score and ten years, and is now passing his declining years in peace and contentment. AYhen he passes to his reward he will lie remembered by all as a citizen of high integrity of character.

That Mr. Myers has applied himself intelligently to the task of creating a home for himself and family is merely stating that which is in abundant evidence to the observer, and what would unquestionably be expected from a man possessing such sterling qualities based on superior intelligence. He is in '\\ the possessor of one hundred and five acres, all under a fine state of cultivation, which yield him abundant returns for the labor expended. He has erected good and substantial buildings for tbe protection and shelter of his stock in winter and the storage of his crops, while his residence is in every way in harmony with the necessities of his farming, and contains many luxurious accessories seldom found in homes of mi .re pretentious exterior.

Mr. Myers is a fine old gentleman, fast appcaching the age of seventy, but presents that hale and hearty appearance which tells of the wholesome influences of early years. He is strictly a self-made man, ami the counpetency he has secured is but a just reward of earnest effort. Mr. Myers is one of those genial gentlemen it is a pleasure to meet, and among his neighbors and the citizens of his township enjoys that reputation which is far beyond price and greater than much wealth in worldly goods. Mr. Myers is a Democrat, and in a religious sense is a member of the Lutheran church.

For almost forty-six years, Mr. and Mrs. Myers had traveled the journey of life together, but December 7, 1901, the grim reaper Death chose his companion and she passed away amid her loving children, her devoted husband and friends. She was a lady above farmer life and was of a kind and affectionate nature. The family chain has 1( st one of the main links, which will never be replaced. Her remains are interred in the Osborn cemetery. She was a lad)- who had many friends, and her death is a sad bereavement to the family as well as the community.

Charles E. Myers is a natural-born cabinetmaker, and in his father's home are some of his handiwork in the way of cabinets and secretaries, which would do justice to the best of mechanics. lie has a fine collects 11 of Indian relics, such as bead work and bows and arrows, and he has some of the old Revolutionary flint-lock pistols and two flint-lock muskets. He is not only a collector of Indian relics but a numismatist, or collector of coins, and has an old English shilling dated 1781 ; he is also a philatelist, or postage stamp collector.

A popular and esteemed citizen of Wolflake, Noble county, Ind.. is widely and favorably known throughout this and adjoining counties as one of the most skillful and successful practitioners in this section of the state, where for almost four decades he has been engaged in ministering to the ills of humanity. Dr. DePew was hern in Leo. Allen county, this state. October 30, 1837, to Isaac and Margaret (Williams) DePew. The father was a native of New York and the mother of New Jersey. Thev resided i.i the state of New York for a time and then moved to Ohio, where they remained several years, finally locating in Allen county, this state, where they died. Their family consisted of thirteen children. Dr. De- Pew spent his boyhood on his father's farm in .Mien county, where he received his primary education. At the age of fifteen he entered the schools of Huntertown, Ind., attending there two years. This was a select school kept up by private subscription. From there he entered Liber Colleg'e, in Jay county, where six years were spent in close and earnest study, while he also taught for a time. During his last year he took up the study of medicine, entering the office of Dr. Joseph Watson. Leaving; college, he went to Fort Wayne, End., where he read medicine with Professor W. 1 1. Myers and Dr. Sturgis for two years longer, when he entered the medical department of the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, where he spent one and one-half terms greatly to his profit. Having by this time acquired a practical knowledge of his profession, he opened an office at Avilla, this ct unity, remaining here two years, lie then located in Salem Center, Steuben county, and had worked up a good practice during the year and a half of his residence there, hut having received an advantageous offer for his practice and business, and being desirous of settling elsewhere, he sold out, and in December, 1864. located in Wolflake, where he has since been in constant practice and has a patronage that extends far into the surrounding country. He is not a man to fall behind the march of ideas, as he has kept in touch with all the latest developments and discoveries in the world of science and spent two winters, during 1871 and 1872, attending lectures in the Medical College of Louisville, Ky. His kindly heart makes him a read}' sympathizer with the ills ci others, and his skillful hand and deep intelligence are alike active in alleviating the sufferings 1 f those in high or low degree, ll was his fortune to travel over much of this country when it was new and illy provided with suitable roads, but all times of year, day or night, in any kind of weather. lie responded with equal cordiality and cheerfulness to the demands made upon his time. Probably no person in Noble county can count a greater number of unswerving friends among their acquaintances than the kindly and affable Doctor whose memoirs we here present. He takes an active interest in all medical subjects and is a prominent member of the Noble County Medical Society and the Indiana State Medical So-

Dr. DePew chose as the wife of bis youth Miss Harriet Cadwell, daughter of the late Edward Cadwell. of Noble county, and for upwards of twelve years the able justice of the peace of Snow township. Her brother, Francis Cadwell, is a well-known judge of Le Sueur, Minn. Mrs. DePew is a native of Toledo, Ohio, and a lady of charming personality and genial disposition. The fi Mowing named children have blessed their union, viz: Flora is the wife of Albert Williams, of York township; Nora graduated from the Lebanon Normal and married Dr. David Strickland, of Cleburne, Tex.; Orvis studied law in the office <>i Judge Cadwell, graduated at Austin. Tex., was admitted to the bar in Wlaco, and was in the full bud of a promising career when death claimed him for bis own as he was entering his twenty-eighth year: Clarence is a teacher in the Hillsdale. Mich.. College. from which be graduated: Evart is also a graduate of Hillsdale and also of the Cniversit) of Chicago; Heber is now a. stuale.it of Hillsdale: and Hutoka W. is the youngest.

Dr. DePew is an ardent Republican and lias served as trustee of Noble township, besides taking an active interest in all political work. He also uses his influence for the best interests of his fellow -townsmen, and his name is prominent in all good works. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias lodge of Wolflake. and is honored and esteemed for his nian_\- noble qualities and the sterling integrity and uprightness which has marked his life. That he has been success- ful in his business goes without saying; a man so devoted to his calling could not but succeed and he has judiciously shown his faith in the future prosperity of this county lay investing his capital in property in Noble township, where he owns four hundred and seventy-five acres of as good land as it is possible to find.

Finley C. Fuller

But few citizens in the early prime of life gain so enviable a standing in the good opinion of their fellow-men as has been gained by the gentleman whose name heads this biography, or who is more deservedly entitled to the eminent position he holds in the esteem of the community in which he lives.

Mr. Fuller is a native of York township, Noble county, lud.. of which he is an extrustee, was born May i, 1856, and is a son of Robert L. and Margaret J. (Coleman) Fuller, the former of whom was born in New Jersey, July 7, 1822, and the latter in Guernsey county, Ohio, about 1826. These parents had a family of two sons and three daughters, of whom Finley C. is the youngest. The mother was called away November, 1857, when Finley C. was a mere babe, but the father survived until May 28, 1885, being spared to rear his children to lives of respectability and usefulness.

Finley C. Fuller was educated in the common or district schools of York township, which lie attended until about sixteen years of age, when he was apprenticed to the carpenter's trade, at which he served three vears. and which he has since followed in connection with farming, and in both lines of business he is a recognized expert. His estate comprises two hundred and twenty-four acres, which he has improved with admirable buildings erected under his own supervision and to a considerable extent by his own labor. The farm is cultivated in a superior manner and exhibits a profound knowledge of agriculture on the part of its owner, whose crops are invariably abundant and regular, and consequently satisfactorily profitable.

The marriage of F. C. Fuller was celebrated in York township, November 22, [877, with Miss Samantha Waltman as his bride. This lady is a daughter of E. W. and Maria (Mullin) Waltman, of the same township, the latter of whom was called to the better land October 21, 1890. Mrs. Samantha Fuller was born in Sparta township. June 26, 1858, and has blessed her husband with five children, born in the following order: Robert W., Bessie B. (wife of Orpheus Earnhart), Mabel C, Bertha M. and Harry B.

It is with unfeigned sorrow that the biographer is called upon to record the pathetic and untimely death of the eldest of this family of five children, which sad event occurred May 18, 1901, and the details of the melancholy facts relating to it are repeated here as they appeared in a local journal of April 26th, twenty-two days prior to the fatal termination of the accident which was the cause.

"Robert Fuller was born August 13, 1880, aged twenty years, nine months and five days. Bert, as he was commonly called, was a good boy, kind and obedient to his parents, trusty in every particular, unassuming in every respect - a boy who was loved and respected by all who knew him. He graduated in the common schools of York township at the age of thirteen. to] lowed by a course in the high school of Albion, graduating with the class of 1898. He had a bright future mapped out before him, but God in His wisdom had canceled it; let us believe 'tis best. He expected to enter the law department of the University of Indianapolis and prepare himself for the knowledge of the law .

Herewith is appended a letter of condolence to Mr. Fuller from Prof. James A. Rollback, Dean of the Law School, University of Indianapolis, where his son, Bert, was to enter during the fall term.

"My Dear Mr. Fuller: - I am very sorry indeed to learn of the great affliction which has been visited upon you in the loss of your son Bert, and wish to extend to you the sympathy of one who has always been much interested in the welfare and advancement of young men.

The obsequies were held at the York Presbyterian church, conducted by J. B. Hawkins, of Butler, and were attended by a large concourse of sympathizing frineds. The remains were interred in the Sparta cemetery.

Finley C. Fuller has always been a stanch Republican in politics and has always taken a lively interest in them. He filled the office of township trustee five years, is a .respected member of the F. A. & A. A I., and the I. O. O. F., and with his wife is a member of the Presbvterian church, and

William L. Cramer

It is not an easy task to describe adequately a man who has led an eminently active and useful life and who has attained to a position of relative distinction in the community with which his interests have been allied. But biography finds its most perfect justification, nevertheless, in the tracing and recording of such a life history. It is, then, with a full appreciation of all that is demanded and of the painstaking scrutiny that will be accorded such a statement, and yet with a feeling of satisfaction, that the writer essays the task of touching briefly upon the details of such a record as has been that of the honored subject whose life now comes under review.

"William L. Cramer was born June _'. 1846, in Franklin county, Perm. His parents were John and Susan (Sullenbarger ) Cramer. John Cramer was born on the 13th of January, 1822, in Franklin county, Perm., and died May _'_', 1878. His wife Susan was born October. 22, 1823, in the same county and state as was her husband, and died on the 3d of February. 1885. John Cramer and his wife moved to \\ ashington township. Noble countyj Ind., in 1848, and lived on a farm until 1871. when lie moved to the farm on which he died. May 22, 1878. To the union of this worthy couple were born five children, as follows: William L.. subject: Josiah, now a resident of Ligonier. this county; Rebecca, who became the wife of Scott Gallowoy; Susan

William L. Cramer received his education in the common schools of Washington township, which he attended until he was fifteen years old. He then engaged in work en the farm for his father until 1866, when he rented one of his father's farms and operated it for three years. At the time of his father's death he was on the old home place, having previously purchased eighty acres of it, and finally obtained possession of the entire tract of one hundred and sixty acres. In the spring of 1887 he moved onto the place where he now lives. It comprises two hundred and nine acres of land, and the care and attention its owner bestows upon it is indicated by its neat and well-kept appearance.

On the 26th of October, 1866, William L. Cramer was united in marriage with Miss Eliza Gilbert. She was born April 19, 1845, in Richland county, Ohio, a daughter of George and Barbara (Strickler) Gilbert. The former was born May 2, 181 3, and died October 5. 1877, while the latter was born October 2. 18 13, and died January 11. 1866: both were natives of Pennsylvania. George Gilbert moved his family to Washington township, Noble county, November 16, 1864, and there remained until his death. To their union were born eleven children, named as follows: John, Catherine (deceased), William, Mary, Sarah, Lydia (deceased), Mrs. Cramer, Matilda. Joseph (deceased), Mariah (deceased) and Jacob.

Mr. Cramer has been a life-long Repub-. lican and an active worker in the. party's campaigns. He was elected to the office of supervisor in Washington township, serving: two terms, and also discharged the duties of the same office, three years, in Sparta township. Religiously Mr. and Mrs. Cramer are members of the liberal branch of the United Brethren church at Indian Village. They are considered worthy members of society and are highly esteemed by all who know them.

Mr. and Mrs. Cramer have no children, but in the kindness and benevolence of their hearts they have not forgotten the little orphan child, and much of their care and means have been devoted to the caring for the fatherless and motherless child. They have in their pretty home a little boy, Ernest Stoner, aged eleven, whom they took at the age of six to rear. This little boy has one of the most beautiful homes and the same care which would be bestowed by his parents. They will aim to rear him properly in a religious and moral sense and educate him for a position befitting the choice of his kind benefactors, which he will fully appreciate in the years to come.

Among the professions which the demands of our great social fabric have made necessary, that of the practicing physicians and surgeons who conscientiously and laboriously devote the best energies of their lives to the well-being of a community is in these latter days given first place and the highest honors. That it should be so is no longer a question. The progress in this branch of scientific research during the last quarter of the nineteenth century has not only been marvelous but the then unknown truths which have been brought to light re- ganling the human system and the various ills to which it is subject under certain conditions would astonish the practitioner of fifty years ago could he return and compare the present with the past. The theory of medicine, as applied to practice, now deals largely with communistic or public conditions, whose sanitary environments it is now recognized tend to the promotion of health and prevention of pestilential disease in proportion to the manner in which municipal laws are enforced on the lines of perfect sanitation. Hence the application of that old maxim: "Prevention is better than cure." It is upon these lines, therefore, that the profession of medicine and surgery has taken such advanced place, and the practitioner of to-day who, by constant research, keeps in touch with his colleagues, can enter the chamber of sickness with a firmer belief in Ins power to alleviate suffering and cure disease which once baffled the skill of the most learned of the profession. It is a pleasure, therefore, to note the career of the gentleman whose name precedes this biographical review, and he well deserves a place in this volume of Noble county's representative citizens.

Dr. Shobe was born near Washington Court House, Fayette county. Ohio, February 3, 1856, and is a son of Ira and Sophia (Jackson) Shobe, natives of Fayette county. Ira Shobe was a mechanic, passed the most of his life in the county of bis birth. and there died at the age of forty-two years. The mother of Dr. Shobe now resides in Ligonier. The children of Ira and Sophia Shobe were eight in number, seven of whom make their home in Ligonier: Jonas is a dealer in horses, also living in Ligonier: Edward died in middle life; William Alvin is the subject; Mrs. William H. Orr resides on a farm near Warsaw; Albert is bookkeeper and clerk in the office of bis brother, Dr. Shobe; and Miss Anna is at home with her mother.

On the removal of the family to Ligonier William Alvin secured the advantages of the city schools until his progress was such that he could enter upon the study of the profession which he bad long desired. He began bis first reading under the tutorship of the late Dr. Carr, of Ligonier, at the age of seventeen, and entered Detroit Medical College in 1877. completing a three-years' course. After graduating in 1880 he returned to Ligonier and practiced with his old tutor for ten years. In 1883 he took a post-graduate course in the Polyclinic at Chicago, where his knowledge of his profession was broadened, and the contact with professors of advanced science in surgery and medicine was highly appreciated and taken advantage of. Returning to Ligonier, he resumed the practice of his profession and has met with most gratifying success, and enjoys the esteem of his professional brethren and the confidence of numerous patrons. He is a member of the American Medical Association and also of the Indiana State Medical Association and the Noble County Medical Society, whose sessions he invariably attends.

Dr. Shobe was married October 20, [887, to Miss Jennie Kimmell. a native of Noble county and a daughter of Hon. Orlando Kimmell. of York township. Mrs. Shobe was educated at Oberlin College, Ohio, and is a lady of culture and refinement and enjoys the reputation of a delightful hostess with pleasing conversational powers.

The Doctor is a member of the Knights of Pythias lodge of Ligonier, being a charter member. The political sentiments of the Doctor are represented by the Republican party, whose policy upon national questions fully meets his views. As the name indicates, the Shobe family are of German origin. Their ancestors were early settlers in America, and representatives thereof are still found in Pennsylvania, where the grandparents of the Doctor reside.

The Doctor and his family belong to that class of citizens whose lives give character to the community in which they reside, and while no children have graced their pleasant home with their presence and to transmit the name, they will be ever remembered by a host of friends who appreciate their many virtues.

John C. Vought

A veteran of the late Civil war, an ex-countv official and a highly respected citizen of Kendallville, is the gentleman whose name introduces this review. The fitting reward of a well spent and active career is an honorable retirement from labor and a season of rest in which to enjoy the fruits of former toil. This Air. Vought is now realizing in his beautiful city home, where, surrounded by many things conductive to his comfort and happiness, he is passing the time as only those can who have struggled long and successfully with the world.

John C. Yought was born April 12, 1840, in Burtonville, Montgomery county. N. Y., a son of Edward B. and Lydia ( Hillman ) Vought, both parents natives of the

Empire state. He was reared in the town of his birth, enjoyed the advantages of the I public schools, and after laying aside his studies, he engaged with a mercantile firm, known as Simpson & Scott, of Burtonville, N. Y.j with whom he continued in the capacity of salesman until January, 1862, when he came to Kendallville, Ind., and in the following August enlisted in Company E, One Hundredth Indiana Infantry.

Mr. Vought at once preceded to the front and within a short time after entering the service received his first baptism of fire near the city of Vicksburg, Miss. His regiment afterward formed part of the patriotic army under General Sherman and he shares with it all the vicissitudes and fortunes of war until the cessation of hostilities, participating in a number of bloody battle? including Vicksburg, Miss., Missionary Ridge and Chattanooga, Tenn., Resaca, and various other sanguinary actions at and around the city of Atlanta. Ga., and was with General Sherman in his march to the sea. He went into the army as private, but shortly thereafter was made a corporal and still later by reason of brave and meritorious conduct was promoted first sergeant of his company: Subsequently by regular graduation he became second lieutenant, first lieutenant, and some time before the expiration of his period of enlistment received the appointment of quartermaster, in which capacity he served until mustered out at the close of the war.

It was Mr. Vought's privilege to take part in the grand review in AVashington City, shortly after which he received his discharge and returned to his home in Kendallville. His military career is bright with duty faithfully performed and his record as a brave and gallant defender of the flag- is one of which any soldier might well feel proud. He demonstrated his patriotism on man\' a bloody battle field, never shirked a duty and his several promotions in rapid succession bears eloquently to his popularity as a man and his efficiency as an officer.

Upon his return to Kendallville, Mr. Vought accepted a clerkship in the drygi ods house of I). S. Welch, and was thus employed for two or three years when he engaged in merchandising for himself as a dealer in boots and shoes. After following that line of trade for a limited period, he disposed of his stock and purchasing a farm in Wayne township turned his attention to agricultural pursuits. For some years he cultivated the soil with satisfactory results and became one of the enterprising and progressive farmers of the township of Wayne. While living there he served two terms as trustee of that township and in 1884 was further honored by being elected recorder of Noble county, the duties of which position he worthily discharged for eight years, having been chosen his own successor in 1888.

Mr. Vought was elected on Republican ticket and he proved true to every trust reposed in him by his party friends, while earnest in the support of his political principles and ever ready to contribute all within his power to the success of his ticket, he can hardly he termed a partisan, as his methods have always been open and honorable, never antagonizing the opposition but, on the contrary, winning many warm friends from its ranks.

tention to his private concerns. He still owns his country home in Wayne township and spends considerable of his time there ton king after his agricultural and other interests. Since becoming a resident of Kendallville he has borne his part in all public improvements and enterprises and his standing as one of the county's progressive and representative citizens is cheerfully conceded by all. Fie has an extensive acquaintance throughout the country and the name of his warm personal friends is legion. He has passed the season of trials, struggles and experiments in business and other capacities and now from the round of assured success he can look back with satisfaction on his progress upward on the ladder of life. In his public and private relations he is recognized as possessing a strong sense of truth and as always endeavoring to shape his life in accordance with their principles.

Mr. Vought was married in Wayne township. January i_\ i860, to Miss Frances E. Young, daughter of the late Jacob, and Sarah Ann (Childs) Young, of Ohio. These parents came to Noble county some time in the 'fifties and settled in the township of Wayne, where Mr. Young afterward died an advanced ase.

Nathan White

Practical industry, wisely and vigorously applied, never fails of success; it carries a man onward and upward, brings out his individual character and acts as a powerful stimulus to the efforts of others. The greatest results in life are usually attained by simple means and the exercise of the or-

(linarv qualities of common sense and perseverance. The every-day life, with its cares, necessities and duties, affords ample opportunities for acquiring experience of the best kind, and its most beaten paths provide a true worker with abundant scope for effi rt and self-improvement.

Nathan White, the subject of this brief biographical mention, is an honored resident of Sparta township, Noble county, Ind. He is, however, a native son of the Buckeye state, having been born in Fayette county, Ohio, on the 19th day of November, 1827. His parents were John and Maria (Baker) White. The former was born in the initial vear of the nineteenth century, and died in Marion canity, Ohio, in 1838, while the latter was born in 1804. and died in Indiana, at the home of her son Nathan. March 20. 3895. To the union of this worthy couple were born seven children, as follows: Jane, born January 19, 1823, died November 26, 1824: David, born February 20, 1826, died August 28, 1892; Nathan the next in order of birth, is the subject of this sketch; Polly, born April 15, 1829; Baker, born August 20, 1S31 ; Eva J., bom November 16, 1834; and Malinda, born July 19, 1836.

Nathan White's early mental training was obtained in a subscription school in .Marion county, Ohio, which he attended until his eighteenth year. Upon leaving school he turned his attention to agricultural pursuits, working upon a farm in his native state. Later, in 1844, he came to Indiana and located upon the farm where Orland Kimmell now lives, and remained upon that place, caring for his widowed mother, until lS^;. Since [857 he has been a resident of Sparta township, and from 1869 has lived continuously upon his present farm. He is now the owner of four hundred acres of fertile and well-tilled land. He has not confined his efforts exclusively to land cultivation, but is also interested to a considerable extent in stock raising.

Nathan White was married in 1855 to Miss Maria Kimmell, who passed away in. March, j868. They became the parents of three children, as follows : Irene, born September 15, 1855; John Orlo, born July 26, 1858, married Ida Ward; and Mini K., born August 2^, 1861, married Lincoln Hefner.

Politically Mr. White has all his life been an uncompromising supporter of the Democracy, and in all the affairs of life has performed well his part. Unostentatious in character, his courteous manner, his genial disposition and his genuine worth have endeared him to all those who have been his associates. His years are crowned with honor, and he can look back over a long life of honest, earnest endeavor, with the approval of his own conscience and the assurance he has done his share in advancing the varied interests of the community.

James T. Latta

A respected farmer at Ligonier, Noble count}-. Ind., was born September 23, 1858, in Olmstead county, Minn. His parents were R. S. and Mary ( Tumbleson ) Latta," who were joined in marriage December 12, 1848.

The father was born November 12, [826, in Illinois, and died February 13, 1900. His wife was a native of Ohio. To their union were born eieht children. One died in infancy, while seven grew to maturity, six of whom are still living. For several years after his marriage R. S. Latta was engaged in the work of the ministry, his labors taking him to Laporte. Jay and Noble counties. His labors in the cause of religion were quite successful, being productive of much good in the communities in which he served. Later he moved to Minnesota, locating in Olmstead county, but returned to Noble county, lnd., in (86o. Here he settled on a farm two and one-half miles north and west of Ligonier.

James Latta, the paternal grandfather of James T., was the first minister of the gospel in Ligonier. He was also an associate judge of the court of Noble county, and signed the first death warranjt in that county. His maternal grandfather, James Tumbleson, lived to the remarkable age of ninetyeight years. He had been a noted hunter, and once, to win a prize of twenty-five bushels of corn, he killed two hundred and fiftysix squirrels in one day. He killed sixtyone deer in one autumn on the "Haw Patch" and is said to have killed his first bear at the early age of twelve years while yet a resident of Westmoreland county, Perm., where he was born April 26, 1798.

James '!'. Latta depended for his education almost entirely upon the common schools of Perry township. Noble county, continuing his studies until he was twenty years of age. He then taught school for four terms, one term of which was after his marriage. On April 21, 18S0, James T, Latta was married to Abigail Simpson, who was born September 11, 1862. She is a daughter and only child of Jonas and Estella (Case) Simpson, the former a native of Elkhart county, lnd.. and the latter of

Vermont. The marriage of the subject and his wife resulted in the birth of three children, viz: Zuila E., born March 18, 1881, became the wife of Willard Slabaugh, who resides on a farm near his father; Thurlow R., born July 2, 1883; and Orta L., born January 4. 1895. After his marriage Mr. Latta settled on the farm where he vet resides.

Politically Mr. Lata has been a stanch and earnest advocate of the Republican party, and in a political campaign is always found in the heat of the conflict, doing his share toward upholding the principles of his party. That his labors have been appreciated is evidenced by his selection in 1890 as census enumerator of Perry township. In the spring of 1896 he was appointed deputy assessor, and performed the duties of that position so efficiently that four years later he was elected assessor for a further term of four years.

By a life of honest toil and persevering industry Mr. Latta has acquired a fair share of this world's goods, and, what is of more value, the respect and esteem of every one with whom he has come in contact. He and his family occupy an enviable social standing in the community in which the}' reside, possessing in a marked degree that happyfaculty of not only making friends hut of keeping- them.

William O. Koher

In taking up the life history of this prominent and highly esteemed citizen of Cromwell. Noble county, lnd.. it would not be out of place to preface it with a few suitable words in reference to his father, Christian M. Koher, an honored old pioneer of two states. The states of Ohio and Indiana have been characterized by their full share of the honored pioneer element who have done so much for the development of this part of our great country and the establishment of all the institutions of civilization in this fertile and well-favored section. The biographical sketches in this volume are largely of this class of useful citizens, and it is perfectly proper to jot down in print the principal items in the lives of these hardworking and honest people, giving honor to whom honor is due. The past has no better history, no better memento, than these' accounts.

Christian M. Koher was born June 20, 1810, at Boonesboro, near Hagerstown, Washington county, Md., and lived to the advanced age of eighty-five years and twenty-eight days, dying July 18, 1895, at Indian Village, Noble county, Ind. More than three-cmarters of a century ago, when the greater portion of the state of Ohio was still covered with virgin forests, and when the red men were still numerous in that locality, Mr. Koher emigrated with his parents Erom Maryland to Tuscarawas county, Ohio. He remained there, doing his full share in subduing the wilderness of the region, until 1 85 2. In September of that year lie moved with his family to Adams county, Ind., being one of the early settlers there. Once more he moved, this time to Kosciusko county, this state, where he resided until his death. On the 7th day of December, [837, Christian M. Koher was united in marriage with Esther Mumma, youngest daughter of John and Magdelena (Overholt ) Mumma. She was born April 8, 1821, and passed away July 15, 1900, aged seventy-nine years, three months and seven days. To the marriage of this worth)- couple were born eleven children, seven sons and four daughters, of whom all the sons and one daughter survived him. In 1843 Christian M. Koher, joined the United Brethren church and was during the remainder of his days a consistent member of that denomination.

William O. Koher, the immediate subject of this review, received his education in the public schools of Adams and Kosciusko counties and made such remarkable progress in his studies that at the early age of sixteen years he was licensed to teach and had charge of schools in Kosciusko county for two years. At that time he received an injury which compelled him to give up work. At the end of five years, however, he returned to1 the school-room and taught one term. He then went to Cromwell, Noble county, and engaged in the livery business, meeting with a fair degree of success. He also, for seven years, carried the mail daily between Cromwell and Ligonier. Desiring a more active life, he sold out his liverybusiness and bought fifty-four acres of land in Kosciusko county. He lived on this farm for two years and then engaged as a clerk for six years in the store of Charles L. Schlabach. At the end of that period he purchased and moved onto the Samuel Mc- Farren farm, where he still resides. This is a splendid tract of fine farming land, embracing one hundred and thirty-five acres, fifty acres of which lie in Kosciusko county. He has not confined himself entirely to the tilling of the soil, having been also' a successful breeder and raiser of stock. His favorite breeds are Poland China and Duroc Jersey hogs and Callaway cattle. That he has made a success of his present calling is abundantly attested by the well-kept appearance of the place and the abundant harvest which he garners. He has every reason to be satisfied, as he undoubtedly is.

On the /th day of December, 1877, Mr. Koher married Margaret McFarren, a daughter of Samuel McFarren, an old settler and honored pioneer of Noble count)'. To this union have been born two children. The eldest, Franklin M., was hern July 19, 1879, and is now assisting his father on the home farm. Brenton M.. born August 23, 1881, is learning the trade of harnessmaker in Cromwell.

Politically Mr. Koher has always been an active and uncompromising Republican and has fully shared the confidence of his political confreres.

For five years lie served as assessor of Sparta township. Mr. Koher's religious affiliations are with the United Brethren church, of which denomination both he and his wife are active members. For five years he has been secretary of the local circuit, and has also served for many years as the efficient superintendent of the Sundayschool.

James A. Lecount

James A. Lecount was born in Noble county, Ind., January 20, 1851, and has here grown to an honorable manhood. His father. William Lecount. was a native of Ohio, born August 1, 1825, and was a lad of eleven years when his parents brought him to Elkhart county. Ind.. where he remained until his marriage to- Miss Helinda

J. Ferry. At that time he moved to Kosciusko county and remained there two years, coming then to Noble county and locating in Sparta township, one mile west of Cromwell. His family included thirteen children, namely : Zacharia ; two that died in infancy; James A.; Amanda; John; Naomi; Ceorge; Warren; William; Grant; Margaret ; and Anna.

James A. Lecount attended the public schools of Sparta township until his eighteenth year. His next three years were spent in assisting his father, and when he reached his majority he went to Michigan, where he spent six months. After six mouths at home he returned to Michigan and again staid six months, but by that time he had made up his mind that Noble count}- was not to be excelled, and he came back to the home of his boyhood and has since been identified with the farming interests of this section. His first farming was done in Turkey Creek township, Kosciusko county, where for thirteen years he was a tiller of the soil, working early and late and showing an unusual aptitude for the vocation he had chosen. Returning to Sparta township, this county, he purchased a part of the William Slabaugh farm, but three years later disposed of it and purchased the farm he now owns. This consists of one hundred and ninetythree acres of land, eighty-three of which lie in the adjoining comity of Kosciusko. Mr. Lecount is a thorough man of business and takes advanced views on the subject of farming, the success of his enterprises proving the correctness of his theories and giving him an. advantage over the plodders who continue to follow in the beaten track.

of matrimony to Miss Mary, daughter of John Stumbaugh, a lady in every way fitted to preside over the home of an energetic and industrious young man, and when two children were added to the household the happiness of the parents was complete. Lilly, the elder, was horn September u, 1875, and is the wife of Samuel Reed, a farmer residing near by. Blanche, the younger, was born October 1, 1885. History and mathematics were her favorite studies and now piano music. She graduated with the class of 1902 and is devoting her time to music and study. The family of Mr. Lecount are among the most prominent in this vicinity and are popular in all social gatherings, while their genial and cordial natures make the Lecount home an ideal place in which to pass a pleasant hour.

Mr. Lecount is a Republican and gives his unswerving support to the candidates of that party. He is also connected with the Knights of Pythias organization, being a member of Cromwell Lodge, No. 408. Mr. and Mrs. Lecount have aided in all benevolences worthy their support, and in the erection of the U. B. church (Radical).

Abram Franks

A progressive farmer and enterprising citizen of Elkhart township, Noble count}-. Ind.. is a native of Ohio, and was born in the county of Wayne on the nth day of July. 1839. lie grew to maturity near the place of his birth, attending, meantime, the public schools; and at the age of twentyfour came to Noble county, Ind.. with his father, settling on the latter's place in the township of Jefferson. There he continued to reside until his marriage, January 1, 1863, to Miss Maria Buttermore, after which he engaged in the manufacture of lumber, operating a sawmill in Elkhart township until 1870.

Disposing of his mill, Mr. Franks purchased, in the latter year, eighty acres in the township of Elkhart, which he at once began to improve and upon which he has since lived. By economy and successful management he added to his original purchase at different times, until he now owns one hundred and sixty acres, nearly all of which is highly improved, his dwelling and other buildings being among the best and most valuable in the section of the country where he resides.

Mr. Franks continued farming very actively until within the last three or four years, when he concluded to rent his land and enjoy seme of the fruits of his long and arduous labors. He is now practically retired from active life, having accumulated J a sufficiency of the world's goods to render his remaining years free from toil and anxiety. There have been as few successful farmers in Noble comity as Mr. Franks, and no citizen of his township has stood; higher than he in public esteem. He served eight years as assessor, to which position he was elected by the Democratic party, of which he has been a firm and uncompromising adherent ever since old enough to exercise the rights of citizenship. While an active worker in the ranks and a safe adviser in party councils, he has never been an aspirant for official honors, nor has he ever resorted to the methods of the modern partisan to win success at the polls. He is popular with the people of his township, ir- respective of political affiliations, and in matters purely local invariably supports the candidates best qualified in his judgment to fill the positions sought.

Mrs. Franks was born December 10, 1840, in Fayette county, Pa. She is the mother of ten children: Carrie V., wife of William Smith, of Chicago ; Florence, wife of William II. McEwen, editor of the Albion Democrat; Marion B., a farmer and stock raiser of Elkhart township; Forest B., a resident of Chicago; James A., who is also one of Elkhart township's progressive agriculturists; Bertha I'.., now Mrs. O. Renshaw. of Kokomo, Ind.; Maria Gertrude; Alram Edgar, telegraph operator; Charles E. and Katie Mabel.

The father of Mrs. Franks was George Buttermore. by birth a Pennsylvanian, and the maiden name of her mother was Barbara Smith, also a native of the Keystone state. They were most estimable people and are remembered in their native state for their many virtues and sterling qualities. They both lived to be quite old, and now sleep side by side in the family cemetery in Fayette county. Pa.

Uriah Franks, father of Abram. was also born in the above county and state and there married Elizabeth Watts, whose parents were among the early settlers of Ohio. He moved with his family to Noble county, Ind., early in the 'sixties, locating originally in the township of Jefferson and later moving to Elkhart township, where his death occurred at the green old age of eighty-six. His wife also lived to be very old, dying on the home place in her eightyfifth year. The family of this estimable couple consisted of eleven children, whose names are as follows: Reason, Solomon,

Samuel (deceased). Lorenzo (deceased), John. Sidney, Ann (wife of Washington Buttermore), Abram, whose name introduces this review. Henry. Uriah, Joseph and Elizabeth Jane, the last named the wife of James McFarland, of Elkhart township.

Irvin W. Pence

Irvin W. Pence was born February 5, 1869, at Ligonier, Ind., a son of Samuel A. and Eliza Pence. The father was born in Pennsylvania, January 28. 1820, and was taken by his parents to Stark count}-, Ohio, at the age of six years, where he grew tomanhood as a farmer. He married Eliza Simmons in October, 18(13. and moved to Noble county. Ind.. in the spring of 1864, locating on a farm one-half mile south of the present city of Ligonier. I le was always an active Christian, and one of the main organizers of the Christian church in this city in 1867. He never aspired to any office. but was a conscientious, sober, honest and hard working man. He amassed a competency, but after removing to the city, in 1S70, he was reduced to medium circumstances through the unfaithfulness of those in whom he had explicit confidence. Since coming to the city he has followed the trade of a carpenter and builder, and is now, at the age of eighty years, quite hale and hearty, aside from failing eyesight. He is the father of eleven children, seven of whom are still living, viz: Eliza, wife of W. K. Sheller, editor and proprietor of the Angola (Ind.) Herald; David S.. for nine years superintendent of the city schools of Sedgwick count}-, Kan., and for six years past superintendent of the city schools at Wichi- ta. Kan.: Maggie, wife of George Yonker, of this city: Ida, wife of John Hendrickson, of Syracuse. Ind. ; Emma: William W., a contractor and builder of Ligonier: and the subject of this sketch, Irvin W.

The mother was born in Stark county, Ohio, a daughter of Jonathan and Eliza Simmons, prominent and wealthy people. Her parents preceded her to this county, living on a farm near the present city of Ligonier. She died October 16, 1897, very suddenly at the home of her daughter, Mrs. John Hendrickson, of Syracuse - a faithful Christian, a kind mother, a true friend, an obliging neighbor - respected by all who knew her. In the early days their home was the home of itinerant preachers for this section, and they seemed the happiest when assisting others.

IrVin W. Pence attended the public schools until he was twelve years of age, when 'lie began to work for himself - working for three years in a sawmill. In 1884 be went to Angola, Ind., and entered the office of the Angola Herald to learn the "art preservative of all arts." He remained in Angola for four years, returning to this city in the summer of 1888. In the fall of the same year he accompanied his brother to Wichita, Kan., where he remained during the winter, returning to Angola in February, 1889. On the second day of the same month he was united in marriage to Miss Cora Jarvis, only daughter of Allen Jarvis, for many years a prominent citizen, farmer and mill-owner of Steuben county. This union has been blessed with five bright children : Linda, aged eleven : Nora, aged nine; Arlie, aged seven : Samuel A., aged four, and Dorothj E. aged two years.

Angola to Kendallville, where he acted as foreman of the Kendallville News for one year, resigning to accept a more lucrative position as make-up and advertising compositor on the Kendallville Daily Sun. In March, 1891, he resigned this position and accq>ted the foremanship of the Ligonier Leader. For ten years he presided in this capacity, discharging every duty devolving upon him. So faithfully did he labor for the interests of the publication that his salary was fr< .^WW^-reased, unsolicited by himself. Always ambitious and desiring to put his knowledge to use for himself, he resigned his position as foreman of the Leader, November 1, 1900. and on February 16, 1901, began the publication of the Plaindealer in the city of Ligonier. From the first the paper has proved a public favorite, ; nd is enjoying a healthy growth. As a )rinter, Mr. Pence takes first rank, and no piece of composition is too complex or ini icate for him to master. As a writer, he is 1 :rsatile and forceful - can censure or p. use with equal effect. In politics be is s Republican. Fraternally he is past venerable consul of the Modern Woodmen of America, of this city. He is likewise a member of the Christian church of this city, and secretary of the Christian Sunday-school. He also served for 1 air y^ars as deputy city clerk and takes an active interest in all matters pertaining to the public good.

James R. Baker

The thriving city of Kendallville is proud of the reputation of its business men. among whom is James R. Baker, whose name is known and honored far beyond the limits of the commonwealth of Indiana. Holding distinctive prestige in this class is the well known and popular manufacturer to a review of whose life and career this article is devoted. He is a gentleman whom to know is to honor, for in every relation of life, whether as a progressive business man managing large and important commercial interests, as the executive head of one of Indiana's leading manufacturing concerns, or as a citizen in the private walks of life, he has ever been wide awakt and enterprising, and true to every trust reposed in him by the public. The record of such a man abounds in many valuable lessons for those just starting" upon their career and its influences cannot fail to prompt the average man to noble deeds and great actiyeness in the struggle of life.

The following synopsis of the history of the Baker family is taken from a work in the collection of the Pennsylvania Historical Society in Philadelphia, entitled, A Genealogical and Heraldic Dictionary of the Landed Gentry of Great Britain and Ireland :

The Baker family has been known in English history for more than thirteen hundred years. The first one mentioned in local history is that of Sir Richard Baker, born in the county of Kent in J 568, who was the author of a history entitled. The History of the Kings of England.

This family was one of note at this time, for in a work published then, they were styled gentry, with coats of Arms, and heralds to wait upon them, and attend them in battle.

He was a member of the Society of Friends (Quakers). He represented the county of Chester in the Provincial Assembly in the years 1701, 1703. 170(1. 1710, 171 1 and 1713. He died in 1716. He had four children who were all born in England. Joseph, his fourth child, was born in 1667. His wife was Martha Woodward. They had eleven children. He died in 1735. Aaron, the second child, married Mary Edwards. They had six children. Aaron, their fifth child, was born in [729 and died in 1809. They had eleven children. James, their first child, married Sarah Pennock. They had eleven children. Aaron P. Baker, the sixth child of the above named James, was horn May 2, 1801. in Chester county, Penn. His wife was Mary Davis, born March 8, iSo_>. in Chester county. Penn. They were married December 21, 1820. He died May 26, 1870, in Morrow county, Ohio. His wife died February 26, 1887, at Galion,

From the best information obtainable it appears that certain ones of the name incurred the enmity of their neighbors by reason of their religious belief, having been strict members of the Society of Friends. Later, upon the organization of William Penn's < >uaker colony, several of the Bak- ers joined it and accompanied that noted leader to the New World, settling on the present site of Philadelphia, Pa., near which city they afterwards purchased of the proprietors a large tract of land. This land became the family homestead, and in the earlv annals of the colony the name frequently appears in connection with the growth and prosperity of what are now the counties of Chester and Delaware. The Bakers were people of suhstantial worth, honest and industrious, and appear to have impressed their strong personality upon the colony they assisted to plant in the wilds of Pennsylvania.

James Baker, grandfather of the subject, was born and reared in Chester county, and in an early day migrated to Wheeling, W. Va., where his death occurred many years ago. Mis son, Aaron P. Baker, subject's father, was also a native of the county of Chester, horn in the year 1801.

Mary Davis was horn in the above county about 1802. and there on the 21st day of Decemher, 1820, became the wife of Aaron P. Baker, with whom she moved to Richland county. Ohio, eighteen years later. After a limited residence in that part of the state the family removed to Richland county and later to Morrow county, where Aaron P. spent the remainder of his life. dying May 26, 1870. His wife lived until 1887. on February 26 of which year she was called to join her husband in the other world. They reared a large family. James R. being' the fifth of fifteen children, the majority of whom grew to maturity and became heads of households.

parents to Richland county, Ohio, where he grew to manhood. He was reared to agricultural pursuits and received a good education, attending the district schools during his minority and after twenty-one taking a high school course in the city of Bucyrus. On leaving school, he began working at the tinner's trade in the above place with a brother-in-law, under whose direction he became in due time a very efficient workman. After becoming familiar with the trade, he worked for one summer in C ilumbus. Ohio, and in the fall of ih-t same year. 185 1, engaged in the business for himself in Galion. where he operated a shop for a short time. In the fall of 1852. he came to Indiana, located in Columbia City, and for a period of six years did a successful business in the lines of stoves and general hardware. October 18. 1854, he was united in marriage to Miss Edith Swayze, of Columbia City, daughter of Dr. William M. Swayze, and in October, [858, removed to Kendallville and again embarked in the hardware trade.

Mr. Baker was the pioneer hardware man of Kendallville and continued the business with marked success until 1864. meanwhile taking out a number of patents for devices of various kinds and becoming widely known as an inventor. Subsequently he turned his attention to the stove and tin trade, in connection with which he also engaged in the manufacture of his various patents and other articles, which he has since carried on with most encouraging results.

Since locating in Kendallville. Mr. Baker's business has steadily increased in ; volume and importance, and he is now considered one of the most extensive and sue- cessful manufacturers and business men of the city. The superior excellence of his various patents soon brought his name prominently before the people of Indiana and othes states and at the present time he is widely and favorably known throughout the entire country as one of the leading manufacturers in the West. The company of which he is the executive head and financial manager was organized March 8, 1895, with J. R. Baker president, W. S. Baker secretary. J. E. Baker treasurer, and C. E. Baker superintendent. The firm is known in the business world as J. R. Baker & Sons, manufacturers of specialties, and its history from the beginning has been marked by a rapid increase in every department until it now ranks with the most important industries in the state. Among the various products is the widely advertised and justly popular adjustable bedside and reading table, which the firm makes a specialty. So extensively is this skillful device now used that a description is proper in this connection. Fn.m the neat illustrated circular recentlv issued by the company, the following facts relative to the adjustable table are gathered. "Comfort in sickness is one of the most essential requisites to the recovery of those afflicted'- - "with confirmed invalids, their comfort and pleasure is the first in the thoughts of their beloved ones." To render the situation of such as pleasant as p< ssiblc the table was invented and put upon the market, and how well it has answered the purpose for which it was intended is attested by the fact of its now being used in over two hundred of the hading hospitals, institutes, sanitariums, asylums and infirmaries throughout the United States, besides the tens of thousands of private dwellings in this and other countries. There is no doubt that it has brought more cheer, comfort and encouragement to the sick than any article hitherto intended for their use. One of the primary .objects of the table was to provide "a convenient means of placing food, writing material and books before the bed-ridden patient in such a way that the moving of the person might be obviated." "It is entirely independent of the bed and in no ways rests upon it; therefore the patient does not suffer the least burden or interference, but is enabled conveniently to enjoy a meal cr read with all possible comfort. The top is arranged so as to lie firmlv fastened to a level position but it may be tilted either way or adjusted to any angle." "To each side oi the leaf is attached a neat and perfect device for holding books, etc.. the holders being nicely plated and so arranged as to I fold back underneath the table when its use is not required." The top can also be raised I or lowered to any place on the upright or standard, and thus the table can be adapted for use over bed, lounge or chair. The frame is well and neatly constructed of steel tubing, very strong but not heavy, the I weight of the entire table not exceeding fifteen pounds. Its exceeding lightness makes it easy to handle, which is one of the: many advantages the table possesses. When not in use, if desirable, the top can be lowered to the floor, thus permitting it to go under a bed, and by placing the standard next tn the bed-post the entire device is out of the way.

This useful article is finished in five different stvles, viz: black enameled, white enameled, nickel plated, brass plated, and antique copper plated: aside from its great utility it is also a beautiful and in every way a desirable ornament to any room. All in all, the Baker Adjustable Table is entitled to the great praise with which it has met wherever used, and in hospitals, sanitariums, etc.. as well as in the household, it has supplied a want long felt by all classes and conditions of people. Mr. Baker is entitled to much credit for inventing and manufacturing the device, and by thousands of sufferers his name will be blessed as that of one of the benefactors of his race.

The plant in which the Baker specialties are manufactured covers a large area of ground and contains very substantial buildings supplied with the best machinery obtainable; only experienced workmen are employed and the establishment has known no such thing as a shut down or strike, being operated to its full capacity every working day of the year. Under the superior management of its executive head the enterprise "has had a most commendable record, the business being constantly extended and the reputation of the firm growing continually in public favor.

As a business man Mr. Baker possesses abilities such as few attain and his judgment and foresight entitle him to a conspicuous place in the ranks of Indiana's most enterprising and progressive men. His sons appear to have inherited his business qualifications and are now among the leading spirits in the industrial growth of Kendall ville and Noble county. The utmost harmony exists among the various members of the firm and the company is destined to play a still greater anil more important part in the future than it has in the past.

was a native of Ohio and for a number of years practiced medicine in Columbia City, Ind. His wife, Eliza Allabaugh, of Pennsylvania, died in Columbia City and he departed this life in Huntington county, this state.

Mr. and Mrs. J. R. Baker have six children living, namely..: Amelia R., William S., Jennie L., James Elmer, Clarence E., and Grace M., the last named the wife of Prof. Charles H. Farrell, superintendent city schools of Nashville, Mich. The following are the children deceased : Charles A. died in his twenty-sixth year ; Mary Edith died when ten years old and four that died in infancy.

While a resident of Columbia City, Mr. Baker served as justice of the peace and clerk of the municipal board of trustees, in both of which positions he acquitted himself as a faithful and capable official. In' the fall of 1900 he was the Republican candidate for nomination for the upper house of the General Assembly, and since his twentyfirst year he has taken an active interest in political matters, being at this time one of the leaders of his party in Noble county. Originally he was an old-line Whig and to him belongs the distinction of having assisted in the organization of the Republican party in Indiana. He has also been greatly interested in the cause of education and for several years served as a member of the Kendallville school board.

When a youth Mr. Baker became identified with the Methodist Episcopal church., and from that time to the present he has been an earnest and pious follower of the Nazarene, faithful to all the claims of religion and untiring in his efforts to spread the Gospel at home and abroad. At this time he is one of the leading workers in the congregation worshiping in Kendallville, holding the position of trustee and class leader, having discharged the duties of the latter for a full half century. He was a prominent factor in organizing the first Methodist Sunday-school in Kendallville in 1859 and has since been one of its most enthusiastic workers. For seven years he held the position of superintendent and his abilities as a teacher have been recognized as well as utilized ever since the establishment of the school at the date above mentioned.

Mr. and Mrs. Baker are among the oldest as well as the most prominent and active members of the Kendallville class and their lives have ever been in harmony with the faith they profess. While aggressive in every department of religious work, Mr. Baker is entirely free from ostentation and endeavors always to carry out the Master's injunctions, not to let the left hand know what the right hand doeth. For many years he has been a leader in charitable and | benevolent movements, while all enterprises looking to the elevation of the moral and spiritual condition of the community find in him a zealous and liberal advocate.

Mr. Baker believes in getting all out of life there is in it. He owns a beautiful modern home in Kendallville, where, surrounded by his family, he passes main- of his happiest hours, free from the cares and distractions of business. His hospitality is unbounded and nothing affords him greater pleasure than to meet his many friends and companions around a fireside which has long been known for the genuineness of the welcome which awaits all who are fortunate as to have formed his acquaintance.

In private, as in business life. Mr. Baker has proved to be a man of strict integrity, and a high sense of honor has governed all of his relations with his fellow-men. Throughout a long and eminently successful career his character has never been assailed nor has the purity of the least of any of his motives ever been questioned. His whole life has been marked by duty well and faithfully done, and all who know him pronounce him a model of the old-time courteous, christian gentleman.

William M. Schlabach

William M. Schlabacb. of Cromwell, Noble county, Ind., was born in Pennsylvania, December 18, 1834. His father, who was also named William, was born in Berks county, renn., in 1808. and was engaged as a day laborer. After some years' residence in the Keystone state he came to Indiana, remaining in this state until his death. The mother of the subject bore the maiden name of Polly Green. To the union of these parents were born five children, named as follows in the order of their birth : Daniel,. - who enlisted in defense of his country during the Civil war and died in the army; Henry is a prosperous farmer of Sparta township, Noble county, Ind. ; Marian, deceased, was the wife of Abraham Stark, who also is deceased ; William M. is the subject of this sketch, and Samuel is an agriculturist of Washington township, Noble county.

came necessary for him to discontinue his studies, and he took employment as a farm hand, working by the month. When lie was fifteen years old he began to learn the trade of shoemaking and continued at this occupation for about a year and a half. However, at short intervals during this period he was enabled to attend school, so that, supplementing his early studies with constant reading and a close observation of men and events, he became a well-informed man. About 1852 Mr. Schlabach, then eighteen years old, commenced learning the milling business and worked at it for about a year and a half. He then migrated to Ohio and worked there by the month until 1857. About that time he turned his attention to agricultural pursuits and farmed in Stark county, that state, for three years. In i860 he came to Indiana, locating in Sparta township. Noble county, and has remained here ever since. The property where he now lives was first occupied by him about 1884. After living there for five years he removed to Cromwell and for about nine years he was engaged there in the mercantile and livery business. At the end of that time he returned to his farm and has remained there since.

In 1857 Mr. Schlabach was united by the holy bonds of matrimony to Miss Sarah Braucher, a daughter of John Braucher, of Stark county, Ohio. To this union were born eight children, whose record in brief is as follows : Clara A. became the wife of Yankulph Warker, and to them were born seven children, Charley. William, Melvin, \\ alien, John, Arlo and Harvey. John R. married Sarah Smith, and they are the parents of four children - Maude, Harley. Glenn and Court. William O. married Lesta

Baker, their union being blessed with five children. Three of these children have passed away, those living being Vernie and William. Anna S. is the wife of James Eden. Manias A. married Minnie Taylor, and they have two' children - Elvie and Roy. Ella became the wife of James Smith and is the mother of one child - Grover. Charles L. married Minnie Coffman. The mother of this family is now deceased.

In 1880 Mr. Schlabach was again married, this time to Miss Catherine Feldhieser. To this union were born two children - Estella L., who became the wife of Elvan Moore, and Hary A.

Politically Mr. Schlabach has been a stanch and uncompromising Democrat, while his religious affiliations have all his life been with the Lutherans. He has had a long and active career, and has ever been guided by those principles which should be the rule of conduct for all men who honestly desire the welfare of their community.

This well-known physician and surgeon at Albion is a native of Clarke county, Ohio, was born October 18. 1841, and is a son of Jacob 11, and Martha (Woodward) Hays, the former of whom was a native of Maryland and a farmer by calling, and the latter a native of Ohio. The Hays family is of German extraction, and of the three children horn to the above-named parents, Dr. John W. is the eldest.

diana Infantry, August 12. 1862, at Piqua, Ohio. His first engagement was at Winchester, Va., in June, 1863. Lee, who was en route to Pennsylvania, surrounded General Milroy's division, and on the morning of June 15, after three clays' fighting, the division cut its way out and retreated to Harper's Ferry, where it remained until after the battle of Gettysburg, when it joined the Army of the Potomac, the Doctor remaining with the division during this time. The next engagement was with the Army of the Potomac at Aline Run, Ya.. November 2j, 1863. In the spring of 1864, as a member of the Sixth Corps, he participated in the battles of the Wilderness, Spottsylvania. Cold Harbor, Tolapotomy, North and South Anna rivers, and after over a month of hard fighting drovi Lee into the trenches around Richmond. With his division he was taken to near Frederick City, Md., where he arrived July 8. and on July 9, under command of General Lew Wallace, they were attacked by General Early, and. although outnumbered, fought until evening, when they fell back to Baltimore. He later joined his corps near Washington, D. C, and participated in all of the battles under Sheridan in the Shenandoah valley, viz: Opequan. Fisher's Hill and Cedar Creek, in the latter of which occurred Sheridan's famous ride. The Sixth Corps, to which the Doctor belonged, on that day turned the tide of battle.

With his corps the Doctor returned to Richmond in the fall of 18(14. remained there on the line of siege until spring, when with his corps he was in the charge that broke the rebel lines, causing Lee to retreat that night. He was in the pursuit of Lee. and the last engagement in which he participated was at Savior's Run. April 6, [865, when his corps, with Sheridan's cavalry, captured Ewell's entire command. He was present at Lee's surrender at Appomattox, April 9, 1865. Just after Lee's surrender he was lying at Burksville Junction when his regiment was marched in front of General Meade's headquarters, Army of the Potomac, when it was personally complimented by General Meade for the work it did in the charge and capture of Lee's army. The One Hundred and Tenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, his regiment, had more to its credit in that campaign than any other regiment of the Army of the Potomac, viz: On the morning of the charge on Richmond the regiment captured two battle-flags, four pieces of artillery and five hundred prisoners. During his entire three years' service, the Doctor never missed a day.

On his return from the war, the Doctor I began the study of medicine in Piqua, Ohio, wdience he went to Cincinnati, entered the Medical College of Ohio, and graduated from that famous institution in 1872. He at once began practice in Albion, where his medical talents were at once recognized, and where he secured a liberal patronage, which he has since materially increased, now standing at the front of the profession.

The professional associations to which the Doctor belongs include the Indiana State Medical Society, the American Medical Association, the International Railway Surgeons, the Baltimore & Ohio Railway Surgeons, and local surgeon for that company, and member of the Noble County Medical Society, llis fraternal relationship is with the G. A. R., the K. of P., the K. O. T. M-. and the K. & L. of Columbia.

solemnized June 23, 1870, in Dayton, Ohio, with Miss Laura E. Hunger, of Montgomery county. This lady received her education in the common and high schools of Dayton, is refined and gentle in her deportment, and is a constant reader of the higher class of literature. The marriage of Dr. and Mrs. Hays has been graced with three children: Edna, Olive and Woodward. Of these, Edna is a popular and greatly beloved teacher in the Danville (111.) high school; Olive is a talented musician, and Woodward, a young man of bright intellect and liberal education, is studying medicine at Rush Medical College, Chicago.

Mrs. Dr. Hays represents one of the most respected families of Montgomery county, and traces back her maternal ancestry in America to Miles Standish.

In the field of politics, Dr. Hays wields a wide influence with the Republican party ; as a physician he commands the respect of the profession as well as of the laity, and socially he and family are classed among the most refined and best in the city of Albion.