Steuben County, Indiana - Biographical sketches, 1885

Biographical sketches

T.R Biery^ M. Z>., of Pleasant Lake, was born in Columbiana County Ohio, in 1841;came to Pleasant Lake in 1875. He attended a course of lectures at the Cleveland Medical College in 1868, and at Detroit Medical College in 1869, graduating in June of that year. He is engaged in the photographic business in connection

John B. Blue,M. D., deceased, was born in Allen County, Ind., in 1839. He grew to maturity in his native county, and in his early manhood taught school. In 1862 he began the study of medicine, and the fall of the next year attended a couise of lectures at the medical department of the Michigan University, Ann Arbor. He subsequently graduated from Kush Medical College, Chicago. He located in Flint, Steuben Co., Ind., in 1864, and began the practice of his profession, but soon after moved to Newville, De Kalb County, where he remained but a short time. He returned to Flint, and in the years that followed built up an extensive and lucrative practice. A few years before his death one of his leo-s became diseased and amputation seemed necessary to save his life. For a time the result was favorable, and he resumed his practice, but finally the disease took a cancerous form, which terminated his life, July 5, 1884. He was a successful physician, and enjoyed the esteem and confidence of all his patrons. Politically, he was a Democrat, and was one of the trusted leaders and advisers of his party in Steuben County. He was a member of the Masonic fraternity, Corinthian Lodge, Flint; Angola Chapter, No. 58, and Angola Council, No. 28. He was married July 13, 1867, to Mary H. Cleveland, a native of Jackson Township,born in 1846, a daughter of Amasa Maro and Sophronia (Lobdell) Cleveland. Her father was born in Ontario County, N. Y.,in 1812, and was one of the early settlers of Jackson Township, where he died in October, 1863. His wife died Jan. 25, 1 852. Their children were three in number - Mrs. Blue; Louisa, of California, and Adelpha, wife of George Golden. To Dr. and Mrs. Blue were born three children; but two are living - Nellie M. and John. Ludellie died in infancy.

David N.K Brown, M. D., was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, Nov. 30, 1831, a son of Rev. Levi and Pliebe A. (Kirk) Brown, who settled in Richland Township in 1844. His literary education was received in this county. He commenced his medical studies under preceptorship of Dr. E. L. Pattee, of Metz; con- tinued with him about two years, then attended a course of lectures at Cincinnati Eclectic Medical College. Commenced the practice of medicine in August, 1855,in Branch County, Mich., remaining there about two years,then came to this county, and after one year in Clear Lake Township, moved to Hamilton, where he has since resided. The Doctor attended a course of lectures at Ann Arbor, Mich., in the winter of 1864-'5. He is a member of the Steuben County Medical Society. By strict methodical attention to his business and care for his patients he has won an enviable reputation, and a large practice, and is enjoying the full confidence of the people in connection with his profession. The Doctor up to 1884 has always voted the Kepublican ticket, but still considers himself a Republican. He was married Sept. 23, 1855, to Lydia Ann Hoopes, daughter of Thomas and Charity Hoopcs, who was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, Dec. 5, 1828. They have seven children - John M., Mrs. Elizabeth A. Sewell, Phebe C. (died aged five years), Levi B., Sarah I., Thomas I., and Ira T. Johii M. Brown, M. Z>., one of the oldest practitioners of Steuben County, was born in Great Barrington, Mass., Dec. 25, 1814, a son of Henry and Harriet E. Brown, natives of Massachusetts, but later residents of Broome County, N. Y., where they died. Our subject began the study of medicine in 1836 with his uncle. Dr. Stephen Brown, of New York City, and subsequently graduated from the Geneva Medical College. He began his practice in 1842, in Medina County, Ohio. In 1855 he came to Steuben Countv, Ind., and bought a farm in Eichland Township, where he has since resided. He built up a good practice which he continued till 1879 when, on account of rheumatic troubles, he was obliged to surrender a part of it to younger hands. He is a successful practitioner, and by his straightforward dealings has won many friends. For over forty years he has been in active practice, and to-day stands at the head of the profession in the minds of those inside and outside the medical fraternity. Dr. Brown was married in Richland County, Ohio, to Rosannah Montgomery, a native of that county, born Jan. 24, 1823, daughter of John Montgomery. To them were born three children - Huldah, born Feb. 21, 1861; John M. and Margaret. John died in infancy, and Margaret in the third year of her age. Huldah was married Sept. 2, 1883, to Samuel Brooks, a native of York Township, born Nov. 5, 1861, a son of Henry Brooks, who died while in the service of his country. Mrs. Brown died March 29, 1883. She was an exemplary Christian, a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Politically Dr. Brown is a Kepublicaii. He is one of the representative men of Richland Township, public spirited and liberal, contributing with an open hand to all objects worthy his aid.

H. M. Byall, M. D., o, promising young physician of Metz, in the office with Dr. Theo. F. Wood, was a graduate of the class of 1884, at Rush Medical College, Chicago. His preparatory studies were made in Huntington County, this State, and with Dr. Wood, at Metz.

John F . Camei'on, M. D-, one of the medical corps of Steuben County, resides in the village of Hamilton. He was born in Richland Township, this county, May 8, 1855, where his parents, John and Mary Cameron, settled in 1841. John Cameron was born in Scotland, Dec. 21, 1814. His parents were George and Janet Cameron, who came to America and located in Canada, in tlie Province of Ontario, in the fall of 1834. George Cameron died in 1848, and his wife in 1838. Their son John preceded them a few months, coming to America in the spring of 1834. He, not long after, went tu New York State, and from there to Ohio, where he was a contractor on the Wabash & Erie Canal. He was married at Napoleon, Ohio, Feb. 25, 1841, to Mary Carlin, a native of Ohio, born Feb. 5, 1823, a daughter of Robert Carlin. They became residents of this county the following year. Nine children were born to them, eight of whom are living - James G., of Eden, Ohio; Louisa, wife of O. A. Mathews, of Eden, Ohio; Robert, of Columbia, Ohio; Mary, residing in Richland Township with her widowed mother; Dr. John F., our subject; Margaret, wife of Samuel Anspaugh, of this county; Josina, wife of Uriah Egbert, of this county; William C, now attending the Tri-State Normal, at Angola; George, the eldest, was born Sept. 10, 1842, and died Oct. 29, 1850. John Cameron died April 4, 1878. He was a man of thrift, a sterling citizen. When he came to this county he was possessed of some capital and bought 160 acres of land, which he rapidly improved. The wife that he brought with him to the wilderness, that shared his joys and sorrows, amid hardships and toils, a true companion, and now in a fair degree of health, is living with her daughter Mary, on the old homestead. Mr. Cameron, for a number of years, was a faithful and consistent member of the United Brethren church at Metz. He was one of the trusty and trusting men of Richland Township. He was elected Township Trustee, performing the duties two terms in a manner creditable to himself and satisfactory to bis townsmen. He also served as Justice of the Peace twelve years. In 1874 he was elected County Commissioner, and re-elected to that responsible position in 1876, and was, at the time of his death, Chairman of the board. He was a man of more than ordinary intelligence, upright and honest in business, obliging as a neighbor, an aflfectionate father, who ever held the interests of his children dear to himself. Dr. John F. Cameron attended the schools of Richland Township till seventeen years ot age, after which he attended Hillsdale College a term and the Angola High School six terms, receiving a diploma from the latter. Then commenced his medical studies under the tutorship of his brother, James G. Cameron, of Eden, Ohio; remained with him three years, and attended three courses of lectures at Rush Medical College, Chicago, 111., graduating in the spring of 1880. May 1, of that year, he commenced practice in the village of Hamilton, where by strict attention to his business, good judgment and faithful attendance upon his patients he is fast winning favor and friends. He was married Dec. 12, 1880, to Elnora Powers, daughter of Clark and Hannah Powers. She was born in York Township, March 7, 1854. In 1883 Dr. Cameron bought of Hon. Hugh Mc- Culloch the Hamilton hotel property, where the traveler is entertained and given, in every sense of the word, the comforts of home. Alonzo P. Clark, M. D., was born at Pratt's Hollow, Madison Co., N. Y., Dec. 23, 1807; his father was a native of Cape Cod, Mass., and emigrated with his wife to Chenango County, N. Y., in 1799. He and wife were descendants of the earliest New England stock. Dr. Alonzo Clark, when a boy, removed with his parents to Ontario County, N. Y. He early directed his attention to the study of medicine, and began the practice of his profession in 1831, at Port Gibson, Ontario Co., N. Y. He was married October, 1828, in Madison County, to Betsey Bump, who was born in that county Jan. 14, 1808. In the spring of 1836 Dr. Clark came to Steuben County and bought a mill-site and saw-mill in Jackson Township. He also bought a tract of land, a part of which composes the farm of his son Omar and on which was located the original plat of Steubenville. He brought his family later in the season of the same year. He was the first physician in Steuben Township, and perhaps the first in the county. He was a man highly respected, and an excellent physician, and one of the most energetic and progressive of Steuben's pioneers. He died Feb. 3, 1S67. Politically he was originally a Whig, and later a Republican. He also practiced law in the early history of the county, and served a term in the Legislature of the State, and was a public speaker of much ability. His wife died March 26, 1878. Dr. Clark had six children, three of whom are living.

Mark T. Clay, M. D., was born in Erie County, in 1855. He was reared in his native county, and received a good academical education. When nineteen years of age he began the study of medicine with Dr. Israel Wheeler, of East Gilead, Branch Co., Mich., and later took a course of lectures at the Eclectic Medical College, Cincinnati, Ohio. He began the practice of his profession in Erie County in 1875, and in 1880 came to Steuben County, Ind., and located in Salem Center. He is a member of the Indiana Eclectic Medical Association, and was granted a diploma by this society May 15, 1884. He is the only practicing physician of Salem Center, and is fast winning his way into the confidence and esteem of the citizens. He is a young man of pleasing address, courteous manners, and readily inspires confidence in his patients and their friends. He is also the proprietor of one of the drug stores of Salem Center. He was married to Amelia Beigh, a native of Indiana. They have two children - Leo and Lura.

Albert Eastman^ M. D., is a native of Oneida County, N. Y., born in 1832, a son of Amasa and Catherine Eastman, and grandson of Peter Eastman, a native of England, who came to the United States in the early part of the eighteenth century and settled in Connecticut, and subsequently moved to Oneida County, N. Y. He was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. His mother, Catherine Eastman, was a descendant of the Stuyvesant family, of New York. She was left an orphan at the age of twelve years, and supported herself by working at a sixpence a week. She had one sister, but they were separated after their mother's death and were never again united. Albert Eastman spent his early life on the home farm. When twenty-two years of age he came West, and located in Illinois, subsequently moving to La Porte, Ind. Having from his boyhood a desire to be a physician, as soon as he was able he devoted his time to the study of medicine. He is a close student, and has been a successful practitioner from the first. His genial, courteous manners and sympathetic, kindly ministrations have won him many friends, and he has a large and constantly increasing practice. His friends are not confined to his patients; the medical fraternity recognizing in him a devoted and successful brother, he enjoys their confidence and esteem. Dr. Eastman was married in 1873 to Ella

A., daughter of Jeffrey and Malvina (Fillmore) Francis, natives ot New York, her mother being a niece of Millard Fillmore. They have three children - Edward, Ruby and Abby. Dr. and Mrs. Eastman have a pleasant home, where they are surrounded by all that betokens comfort and refinement, and their friends find a welcome that assures them of the pleasure it gives to greet and entertain their guests. Dr. Eastman enlisted in the war of the Rebellion, in the Eighty-ninth Illinois Infantry, and participated in all the varied fortunes of his regiment.

Stephen H. Fuller^ M. D.^ was born in Montgomery County, N. Y., in 1847. When six years of age he came to Indiana with his parents, locating at Chesterton, Porter County, where he was reared. In February, 1864, he enlisted in the One HuYidred and Twenty-Eighth Indiana Infantry, and served till the close of the war. At the time of his enlistment he was but little past sixteen years of age, and his weight was less than 100 pounds, but he endured the hardships of war like a veteran. He participated in Sherman's march from Chattanooga to Atlanta, and then his regiment was assigned to General Thomas's Division, and joined in the Nashville campaign. He began the study of medicine in the spring of 1874, at Chesterton; attended two terms at Rush Medical College, Chicago, 111., and graduated at Fort Wayne Medical College in 1879, having practiced two years prior to his graduation. He located in Pleasant Lake in April, 1877, and has built up a large practice. He has been Coroner of the county three terms, and is one of the Pension Examiners of the State of Indiana. Dr. Fuller married Harriet FoUett, daughter of Almarion FoUett. They have two sons - Fern and Forest.

Charles TF. Goodale, M. Z>., is a native of York Township, Steuben County, Ind., born May 11, 1844, a son of Burdett and Mary Ann Goodale. In October, 1842, his parents moved from Cleveland, Ohio, to Steuben County, Ind., and settled in York Township, where the father died June 15, 1855, aged thirty-eight years. His mother is living with a daughter, Mrs. Stevens. They had a family of four children, of whom our subject is the second. Albert N. was a member of the Forty-second Illinois Infantry in the war of the Rebellion, and died in October, 1863, from the effects of wounds received at Chickamauga. Orville F. is clerk of Steuben County Court, and resides at Angola. Amelia is the wife of Abraham Stevens, of Metz. In his early life our subject made the best use of time allotted for attending school, and in addition to the district school attended the High School at Angola, and Hillsdale College. While a student at Hillsdale he enlisted in the Thirtieth Michigan Infantry and served about six months. After his return home he began the study of medicine under the preceptorship of Dr. H. D. Wood, now of Angola, then of Metz, and remained with him three years. He then attended Rush Medical College, Chicago, 111., graduating in 1869. He began his practice at Metz, and in 1871 went to Reed City, Mich., where he remained till 1874. Then returned to Metz, and engaged in the mercantile business almost exclusively for four years, and in 1878 went to St. Joseph, DeKalb County, and resumed the practice of his profession. In 1880 he returned to the home of his childhood, with the intention, of remaining, but his love for traffic, rivaling the love of his profession he again, the following fall, embarked in the mercantile business, and in October, 1881,admitted as a partner Abraham Stevens, an enterprising business man. In the spring of 1884 he left the charge of the business to his partner, and again resumed the practice of medicine. Dr. Goodale has many friends, and as he is a close student and has kept himself informed on all the advanced theories of his profession, has no trouble in building up a good practice. In the spring of 1885 he sold his interest in the mercantile establishment of Goodale & Stevens to Jeff Warner. Dr. Goodale was married Sept. 5,1869, to Miss Margaret A. Parrott who was born Jan. 9, 1842, daughter of Sylvester and Henrietta Parrott. They have six children - Burdett, Alice, Frank, Paul, Amelia and Ford. In politics Dr. Goodale is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Disciple church.

Dt. David P. Hathaway was born in the State of New Jersey, Nov. 4, 1791. When eleven years of age his parents, Jacob and Lydia (Day) Hathaway, moved to Washington County, Penn., where the Doctor was reared, and July 27, 1810, married Elizabeth Bennett. She was born in that county July 22, 1790. The Doctor commenced the practice of medicine in Washington County, then emigrated to Licking County, Ohio, in 1836, and in the fall of 1849 settled on section 5, York Township, which has since been called Hathaway's Corners. The new country demanded his continuous professional services; and by hard work, attending to all calls at all hours, he soon broke down and died - May 11, 1850. His useful life was given to the help of the sick and distressed of the new country. His widow survived him and died Aug. 11, 1878.

Steuben's pioneers, we have tried to place before our readers the simple record of those most worthy of representation, and we believe that Steuben County has never had a citizen more deserving of this honor than the old pioneer whose name stands at the head of this sketch. He comes of pure Celtic stock, his great-grandfather,Robert McConnell,beinga native of County Antrim, Ireland, born in 1695, whose ancestors went from Scotland to the Green Isle in the sixteenth century. Robert McConnell and wife immigrated to the American colonies early in the eighteenth century, and settled in Franklin County, Penn., where he died in 1770. In that county was born James McConnell, the grandfather of George W., in 1745, where he grew to manhood and married a Miss Mc- Connell, to whom were born six sons and six daughters, one of whom is living - Mrs. Judge Denny, of Lagrange County, Ind. On the breaking out of the Revolutionary war, he raised a company of patriots, and Aug. 16, 1776,left his native county asCaptain of his company, and served throughout that struggle for independence. He was placed at Kings Bridge at the head of the island, where New York City now stands. After the war closed, he returned to Franklin County, Pa., where he was a Justice of the Peace for several years. County Commissioner in 1788, a member of the State Legislature from 1804 to 1806, and an Elder of the Rocky Spring Presbyterian Church for many years. He died inl809,and he and his father, Robert, are buried in Rocky Spring graveyard, near Charabersburg, Penn. His brother, John McConnell, was also a Captain in the Revolutionary war, and served from first to last in that struggle against tryanny, participating in the battles of Paoli and Brandywiue and a number of others. The father of the subject of this sketch was James McConnell, who was born in Franklin County, Penn., Oct. 9, 1784, being the third son in a family of twelve children. His youth was passed in his native county, and in May, 1808, he was married, near Winchester, Va., to Elizabeth Luckey, who was born at that point April 5, 1785, daughter of Joseph Luckey. Of the above marriage, twelve children were born, viz.: Mary J., James, Rebecca, Joseph, George W., William, Caroline, Robert, Eliza A., and three died in infancy. The grandfather of Mrs. McConnell and great-grandfather of our subject, Hugh Luckey, removed from Londonderry, Ireland, and settled at Fag's Manor, Chester Co., Pa., about the same time of Robert McConnelTs immigration to Franklin County, Pa. His family, consisted of four sons and one daughter - William, Joseph, Isaac,

George and Elizabeth. The latter married Kev. James Duulap, the second President of Jefferson College, Cannonsburg, Pa. William and Joseph each raised a company of vs^hich they were appointed Captains and served throughout the Revolutionary war. Isaac enlisted as a private and was killed at the battle of Brandywine. Joseph was a Quartermaster under "Washington as well as Captain. George Luckey entered Princeton College from which he graduated and afterward became an eminent Presbyterian divine, settling near Baltimore, Md. He was a classmate of Dr. John McMillan, the founder of Jefferson College, Aaron Bnrr and Luther Martin. James McConnell was a very fine scholar and excelled as a linguist. After graduating he studied law, at same time taught a classical school at Mercersburg, Penn., during which time he prepared James Buchanan for college, who became President of the United States in 1857. He entered upon the practice of law at Morefield, Ya., which he followed but a short time; but, as duty called him, he studied theology and entered the Presbyterian ministry, being licensed to preach at Richmond, Ya. His health soon failing he again took up teaching and taught at the following places: Morefield, Ya. ; Lovingston, Ya. ; Brownsville, Penn.; New Glasgow, Ya.; New London, Ya., and Chester, S. C. At the latter place, his continued failing health compelled him to quit teaching, whereupon he returned to" Pennsylvania and settled on a farm in Greene County. His brothers Robert, William, Alexander and Joseph were soldiers in the war of 1812. Robert and Alexander settled in Morgan County, Ohio, and laid out the town McConnellsville, in that county. James McConnell died Oct. 7, 1840, near Mansfield, Ohio, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Andrews, whom he was visiting at the time. His wife survived him many years, dying at Waynesburg, Pa., Sept. 6, 1863. The subject of this sketch was the fifth in the family, and was born in Lovingston, Nelson Co., Ya., March 16, 1816. He received a good literary and scientific education, and in 1836 came out to the "Yermont settlement," Steuben Co., Ind. He studied medicine with his brother James, and, in the spring of 1838, began practicing on Jackson Prairie, moving to Angola the following year, where he continued practice until his brother's death, Oct. 9, 1844, when he retired from the profession. He was married near West Alexander, Penn., Aug. 13, 1846, to Miss Eliza Bonar, daughter of Barnet Bonar, who was born in Pennsylvania, Jan. 14, 1778, and Jane Bonar, nee Donahey, born in Ireland, Dec. 13, 1782. Barnet

Bonar was an Elder of the Presbyterian church for over fifty years, and died Feb. 1, 1870, on the farm where his birth occurred ninety-two years previously, his wife having died Dec. 10, 1869. Mrs. McConnell was born in Washington County, Penn., April 22, 1828, and has had the following children: James, William B., Joseph, Robert, George W., Alexander, John L., Thomas C, Samuel, Elizabeth J., Mary A. and Sarah M. McConnell. Of those, Robert, Samuel and Sarah M. died in infancy, Joseph in his eighth year, Mary A. in her ninth, and John L. was accidentally drowned in the lake when in his eighteenth year. Mrs. McConnell is kind and sympathetic in her nature, feeling deeply for the sufferings of others, and bearing her own with gentle fortitude. Firm in her attachments and friendships, she cannot understand what wealth or position has to do with either. To her, all humanity is molded alike and she knows no other guide for her relations toward her neighbor than that laid down in the divine law. Generous and hospitable to a fault, she has ever wielded a power for good in her sphere of life. Christianlike and charitable, she loves to minister to God's poor, and has never sent away a homeless waif hungry from her door. Throughout her life she has always been an industrious, faithful wife, and a fond, loving mother. Dr. McConnell was Sheriff of Steuben County from 1847 to 1849, and was elected to a seat in the State Legislature for the winter of 1851-'2 at which session the statutes were revised under the new Constitution of Indiana. He has been engaged principally in farming and dealing in real estate. He was one of the organizers of the first select school of Angola, and, with others, was instrumental in having the present school building erected, for which he contributed generouslv. The citizens of Steuben know well the prominent part taken by Dr. McConnell in having the Fort Wayne, Jackson & Saginaw Railroad come through Angola, as well as all other public improvements which have added to the wealth and prosperity of the county. Politically a Democrat, he was always a firm upholder of the Union. He was at For t Wayne when the first shot was fired on the nation's flag at Sumter, attended a war meeting in that city, returned to Angola and called a similar meeting, and ever after took an active part in raising volunteers for the defense of the Stars and Stripes. He went into the Forty-fourth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, of which he was Quartermaster, and remained with his regiment until his private business and sickness in his family compelled his returning home. He and his wife are members of the Presbyteriaa church, and have always been earnest advocates of temperance. We can safely say that Steuben County owes as much to George W.McConnell for its present prosperity as to any citizen it has ever had, and we have been told by Angola's best citizens that Steuben has been known throughout Indiana and bordering States more through his name and efforts for the county's welfare than those of all other citizens combined. In adversity, many have deserted him, but for all time to come he will bo remembered as a man of active business enterprise, unbounded public and private liberality, and imbued with every principle calculated to benefit the county of which he has so long been a worthy citizen.

Dr. James McCotmell, deceased. - Among the men who took an active and prominent part in the early history of Steuben County few are more worthy of mention than Dr. James McConnell. He was born in Morefield, Ya., Sept. 17, 1810, and was the second in the family of James and Elizabeth McConnell. He received his education at Lovingston, New Glasgow and New Loudon, Ya., under his father's watchful care, and soon after entered the office of Dr. Lamb, of Brownsville, Fayette Co., Pa.., completing his medical studies with Dr. Porter, formerly Professor of Anatomy in Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia. He began practice at Brownsville, Pa., and about 1833 moved to McConnellsville, Ohio, and in May, 1835, came to Lima, Lagrange Co., Ind. The territory of which Steuben County, Ind., now consists was then a part of Lagrange County, and it will thus be seen that he was identified with Steuben County from the very commencement of his career in Indiana. He remained at Lima until Nov. 1, 1836, when he moved to the " Yermont settlement," now Orland, where he continued the extensive practice he had enjoyed in Lima. He was the first physician of Steuben County, and a man of fine education and undoubted ability. In April, 1837, he was elected Clerk and Eecorder of Steuben County for the term of seven years, and located his office in the logcabin of John Stayner, on Jackson Prairie, removing to Angola in the fall of 1837, where the county-seat had been located and a frame office erected for his occupancy. While practicing medicine in Steuben County he was called to attend all the more difficult and important cases which arose, one of which deserves, from the singular circumstances of its origin, a more detailed account. A young man named Munson was in the woods hunting, and started some deer. While maneuvering to get a shot at them, he put down his loaded and cocked rifle, holding the barrel with his hand and letting the butt rest on the ground. As it happened, the butt came squarelv down on a large rattlesnake, which young Munson, intent on the deer, did not see. The snake lashed its tail, which, striking the trigger of the gun, caused its discharge, the bullet passing through Munson's neck. The surprised snake hastened to escape, leavino- Munson bleeding from his very dangerous wound. Dr. McConnell was hastily summoned, and by his skillful treatment of the wound saved Munson's life. He was married in Angola in January, 1841, to Mrs. Julia Whittaker, sister of Judge Thomas Gale, one of the pioneers of Angola. In 1843 Dr. McConnell resigned his oflSce, and began practice as an attorney, but death cut short his labors, he dying Oct. 9, 1844. Most of the old settlers remember him as a man of integrity and true worth; energetic, obliging and capable; possessed of the finer attributes of manhood, and endowed with a strong, logical brain. Although first settling in Lima, he was from the beginning intimately associated with the early, sturdy pioneers of " Old Steuben," of whom their descendants may well feel proud. Dr. James McConnell, though dead over forty years, is still spoken of in words of kindness and honor.

William II. Miller, M. B., was born in Toronto, Canada, Sept. 20, 1851, a son of Simeon and Louisa (Frink) Miller. His father was a native of Yorkshire, England, and when fourteen years of age came to America, and lived in Monroe County, N. Y., till after his marriage, when he moved to Toronto. Li 1856 he returned to Monroe County, and in 1866 moved to Jackson County, Mich., where he still resides. The family consists of six children - four sons and two daughters. When our subject was seventeen years of age he left home, and from that time maintained and educated himself. Being ambitious to obtain a thorough education and ultimately enter a professional life, he went to Jackson, Mich., where he attended the graded schools three years, working when not in school to defray his expenses. He then attended the literary department of Ann Arbor University, and while there decided to take up the profession of medicine. After leaving the University he returned to Jackson and entered the office of Drs. Anderson & Towne, remaining with them, when jiot attending lectures, till March, 1884. In the winter of 1880-'81 he attended the Hahnemann Medical College, Chicago, and also in 1881-'82, graduating in the spring of 1882. He continued his practice under the guidance of his former tutors till 1884, when he removed to Fremont, where he is gaming the confidence of the people and is building up a good practice. He is a young man of good address, unquestionable habits, courteous and genial manners, and his close attention to his profession and alertness to comprehend any new departure combine to make him a successful practitioner. Dr. Miller was married in Napoleon, Jackson Co., Mich., to IdaC. Russell, daughter of Levi and Harriet (Kilmer) Russell. They have two children - Arthur R. and Franklin.

John H. Moore, M. />., is a native of Ohio, born June 9, 1820. He was reared in Ohio, and there began the study of his profession, graduating from the Ohio Eclectic Medical College, Cincinnati. He began his practice in Mahoning County, Ohio, and in 1853 came to Steuben County, and lived in Angola four years, then moved to Scott Township, where he has since lived and built up an extensive and successful practice. His residence is on section 17, and is one of the pleasantest in Scott Township. Dr. Moore was married in Mahoning County, to Abigail Lee, who died in 1857, leaving live children - Mrs. Sarah James, of Angola; Mrs. Mary Allen, of Fremont; Mrs. Eliza Lamareux, of Allegan County, Mich. ; Duane, of Otsego Township, and Mrs. Harriet Hulwick, of Otsego Township. Li 1858 he married Kate Gushart, who died after six years of married life, leaving two children - Mrs. Alpharetta Hutchins and Mrs. Cora Kilburn. Jan. 1, 1867, he married Har. riet Holdredge, who was born Feb. 7, 1837, daughter of Dudley and Abigail Holdredge, who came from Portage County, Ohio, to Steuben County in 1840. To them have been born two children - Dudley H. and Minneola. The Doctor's sentiments are, universal mental liberty; the world is his country; to do good, his religion^

A. 0. Parsell, M. D., was born in Essex County, N. J., Jan. 21, 1826, a son of Moses S. and Hannah B. (Crilley) Parsell, natives of New Jersey. Moses S. Parsell was born in 1797, and was reared in his native county, where he learned the trade of a shoemaker. He married Mary Campbell, who died a few years later, leaving two children - John, who died in boyhood, and Mary C, who lives on Long Island, N. Y. Mr. Parsell afterward married Hannah B. Crilley, and to them were born five children, three of whom are living - A. G., Sarah W. and Elizabeth S., wife of Avery Emerson. Abijah died in 1882, aged fifty-five years. Thomas B. died at the age of forty-one years. In 1838 the family came to Indiana with the intention of locating in Lagrange County, but changed their location to Steuben County, and bought a tract of unimproved land of Judge Emerson on section 35, Jackson Township. He built a frame house and began the improvement of his land. After paying for his land and buying a cow he had no money. He died in November, 1839, leaving a wife and six children, the eldest but fifteen years old. The mother kept the children together till they were old enough to take care of themselves, the boys taking charge of the farm. She died in 1846. A. G. Parsell remained on the homestead till manhood. In the fall and winter of 1845-'46 he had a severe sickness and another in the spring of 1847, which so weakened his constitution that he was unable to perform the duties of a farmer's life, and he turned his attention to the study of medicine. He entered the office of Dr. William Bevier, of Salem Center, and remained with him two years. He then attended a course of lectures at tlie Eclectic Medical Institute, Cincinnati, and afterward studied with Dr. Bevier another year. He began the practice of his profession in 1852, locating at Salem Center. Two years later he moved to Fairfield Center, De Kalb County, and in 1858 returned to Salem Township, and located on a farm, although he continued his practice. In 1881 he sold his farm and moved to Hudson, and engaged in the mercantile business with his son George. He was married in 1846 to Emily Emerson, daughter of Judge Avery Emerson. They have had ten children, seven of whom are living - Albert A., in Texas- George A.; Ida A., wife of R. R. Redfield, of Humboldt, Kas.;' James R., in Colorado; Henrietta S., wife of Elmer Ransburg, of Edgerton, Ohio; Nellie and Thomas A. Three daughters died in infancy. Dr. Parsell is well known for his sterling integrity and his strong advocacy of all principles he believes to be right. He is in all respects a worthy representative of the pioneer element of Steuben County. In politics he is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian church.

Elisha S. Robison^ M. Z>., was born in Morrow County, Ohio, Feb. 12, 1838, a son of Isaac and Nancy (Kilborn) Robison, who were slaves. His father was liberated by an act of the State in 1817. He purchased his wife's liberty a year later, for $500. To them were born three children - two daughters, deceased, and Elisha S. The mother died in 1848, and his father afterward married Alby Lennox, and to them was born one son - Isaac, a clerk in a bank in California. The father died in 1862, and his wife in 1871. She was a daughter of her master, her mother being a house servant. Our subject was reared in a Quaker family.

and was educated in their scliools, not being allowed, on account of color prejudice, to attend the common schools, which his father's money helped to build. When twenty years of age he went to Iberia, Ohio, and the latter part of 1S59 to Massilon, Ohio, where he was in the office of Dr. J. B. Bowen a short time, and then went to Kent County, Mich., and engaged in farming. Oct. 20, 1S63, he enlisted in Company G, One Hundred and Second Michigan Infantry, and served two years. After hi,s return home he again studied medicine and subsequently attended two courses of lectures at the Montreal Medical College. April 9, 1876, he moved to Branch County, Mich., and Feb. 16, 1882, to Fremont, Ind. He has built up a good practice. He is a hard student and has acquired a thorough knowledge of medicine and its effects on the human system, and is a successful practitioner. Dr. Kobison was married in Grand Kapids, Mich., in 1862, to Julia A. Sloat, a daughter of Commodore Sloat, a prominent slaveholder of North Carolina, and one of his house servants, by whom he had two children. He became involved and was obliged to sell some of the slaves, and among them was Mrs. Robison and her mother. They were sent to the Red River country, at that time a dreaded point. While on the boat a colored man, named Moses Cleveland, asked the mother if she would like her liberty. Being answered in the affirmative, he assisted her to escape. She was put into a hack at the wharf and taken to another part of the city. There she donned male attire and thus made her way to the North. Mrs. Robison died in 1865. He afterward, April 19, married Maggie M. Barker, a native of Fulton County, Ky. They have had two children - Pearl and Floyd, the latter deceased.

M. F. Shaw, M. Z>., is a native of Indiana, born in Noble County, Aug. 26, 1858, a son of Thomas and Susannah (Stump) Shaw, natives of Ohio. In 1857 his parents moved to Noble County, Ind., where his mother died in 1862. His father afterward married Rachel Grisamere and still resides in Noble County. Our subject remained on his father's farm till twenty years of age. After spending three years in Ft. Wayne Medical College and teaching public school, he went into the office of Dr. E. W. Knipper, of Ligonier, Ind., and studied with him three years. In the winter of lS82-'83 he attended a course of lectures at Bellevue Hospital Medical College, New York City, and the next winter attended a second course, graduating in the spring of 1884. He than located in Angola, Ind., where he is building up a good practice. He is a bard student, is determined to succeed in his profession, and by bis energy and incessant application to bis profession is winning the confidence of the people and the esteem of the medical fraternity. His pleasing address, genial manners and good habits have won for him a place in the best society ot Angola.

Frederick Sherman, M. D., is a native of Branch County, Mich., born in 1859, a son of Arthur H. Sherman. He was reared and educated in bis native county, and after leaving school began the study of medicine with Dr. L. Sanders, now Professor of eye and ear surgery in Beach Medical Institute, Indianapolis. He matriculated at Bennett Medical College, Chicago, 111., where be attended two courses of lectures, in 1879-'80 and 18S0-'81, graduating in the spring of 1881. He began his practice in Branch County, remaining there three years, and in September, 1884, located in Flint, Ind. He is a young man of pleasing address, courteous manners, and by his sympathy and tact inspires confidence in his patients and their friends, and is rapidly building up a wide and lucrative practice. Dr. Sherman was married in 1880 to Zada Miller, a native of Branch County, Mich. They have one daughter - Maud.

E. B. Simmons, M. D., is a native of Crawford County, Ohio, born June 26, 1855, a son of Benjamin F. and Elizabeth (Souder) Simmons, natives of Pennsylvania. His parents were married in Crawford County in 1845, and to them were born three children - Isaac N., Ira H. (deceased) and E. B. His mother died July 16, 1862, and in 1864 his father married Henrietta Chapman. But one of their two children is living - Lawrence. E. B. Simmons was reared on a farm, receiving his early education in the common schools. He afterward entered Otterbein College at Westerville, Ohio, and remained there two years. He then taught four terms in the district school and one year in the graded schools of Osceola, Ohio. In 18T5 he attended the University at Columbus, Oliio, and in 1877 began the study of medicine with T. F. Wood, of Metz, Ind., remaining with him three years. In the winter of 1878-'79 he attended lectures at Eush Medical College, Chicago, and the following winter at Fort "Wayne Medical College, graduating in the spring of 1880. He then commenced his practice with H. D. Wood, of Angola, and in 1881 went to Bucyrus, Ohio, where he remained a year. In the fall of 1882, be located in Fremont where he has built up a good practice. He is a young man of more than ordinary ability and his stndious habits and love for his profession have combined to make him successful in his practice and to rank at the head of young physicians in the county. He is a member of the Steuben County, JN'ortheastern Indiana, and State medical associations. Dr. Simmons was married March 23, 1881, to Edith Quamtance, daughter of Joseph Qiiamtance, of Bucyrus.

Robert Smithy M. D., one of the early physicians of Steuben County, was born in Hancock, Hillsboro Co., N. H., April 25, 1797, and when six years of age was taken by his parents, James and Elizabeth (Wiley) Smith, to the State of Ohio where they died. While yet a young man he went to Cleveland, Ohio, and there studied medicine under the tutorship of Dr. Mcintosh. He commenced his practice in the province of Ontario, Canada, and there married, Feb. 6, 1828, Eliza Pomeroy, who was born in County Cork, Ireland, Feb. 10, 1810. In 1837 he moved to Seneca County, Ohio, two years later to Williams County, and in 1842 to Steuben County, Ind., and bought eighty-nine acres of land on section 2, Otsego Township and commenced making a home in the wilderness. Here he lived a life of great usefulness being for some time the only physician in this part of the county. He continued his practice till 1860 when failing health induced him to abandon all except his practice among personal friends. He was a man of dignified bearing but genial and courteous manners, and endeared himself to liis patients and their friends. He was a member of the Masonic fraternity, Angola Lodge, No. 236. In politics he was a Republican from the time of the party's organization. He died April 5, 1878, and his wife Oct. 1, 1879. Their family consisted of nine children, four of whom are living - Catherine, wife of L. P. Sisson; Robert, of Branch County, Mich. ; Louisa, wife of John Foster, and Lewis Cass. Byron died at the age of twenty years and the rest in infancy.

Edward A. Taylor, M. Z>., York Center, Ind., was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, Jan. 8, 1849, a son of Dr. James B. and Sarah P. Taylor. In 1853 his parents moved to Steuben County, Ind., and located in Angola where, for a short time, his father was engaged in the mercantile business, and then moved to Hamilton, where he engaged in the practice of his profession. In 1863 they moved to Newville, De Kalb County, and from there to Edgerton, Ohio, where they still live. Edward A. Taylor pursued his literary studies in the schools of JSfewville, and afterward attended Fort Wayne College. He began the study of medicine with his father when nineteen years of age, and in March, 1876, graduated from the Iowa Medical College, Keokuk. He practiced with his father for a time and then located in York Center, Steuben County. He is a close student, and keeps himself well informed in the science of his profession. He is a worthy member of the medical fraternity of Steuben County. By his careful attention to his patients and readiness to answer all calls he has gained a good practice which is constantly increasing. Dr. Taylor was married Sept. 22, 1878, to Allie Hathaway, a native of Steuben County, Ind., born March 26, 1855, daughter of Park and Parthenia Hathaway, who moved to Steuben County in 1860.

William Henry Waller, M. D., is one of the most popular and successful physicians of Steuben County. Few have risen so rapidly as he to the prominence he has attained. His natural taste for the profession added to a liberal education fitted him for the commencement of his practice, and constant study and experience have perfected his knowledge. His kind, sympathetic disposition and calm, dignified bearing make his presence in the sick room welcome to the patient and reassuring to the friends. Straightforward and honorable in all his dealings, he is esteemed alike by his brother practitioners and those with whom he has any transaction. Plain and unassuming in his manner, modest and retiring in habits, he is nevertheless possessed of a strong determination, which is the precursor of success. He is polite and courteous to rich and poor alike, and his services are never denied to those from whom he expects no remuneration. Dr. Waller was born in Kichland Township, Steuben Co., Ind., Nov. 3, 1849, a son of Garrett and Jane (Sinkey) Waller, natives of Ohio, who moved to Steuben County in 1846. He is the eldest of eight children, three sons and five daughters. His summers in early life were spent on the farm, attending school in the winter. He began teachinowhen nineteen years of age, and taught four consecutive winters. In the meantime he had resolved to become a physician and in May, 1871, he began reading medicine. In 1872 he entered Detroit Medical College, one of the best institutions of the kind in the country, and attended two courses of lectures, 1872-'73 and 1873-'74, graduating as a physician and surgeon March 4, 1874. He immediately located in Angola where he has since resided. He is a member of the Steuben County Medical and Surgical Societv, the Northeastern Indiana Medical Society, the Southern Michigan

Medical Society and the American Medical Association. In the fall of 1878 he took a special course of lectures on the treatment of the diseases of women at the Detroit Medical College, and in 1880 attended lectures on tlie same subject at the Chicago Medical College. Dr. Waller was married at Metz, Ind., April 15,1875, to Amanda Terrier, daughter of William and Olive M. Ferrier, and a native of Steuben County, born March 8, 1853. They have two children - Zora, born March 1, 1876, and William F., born May

Thomas B. WilUains, M. D.^ located in Angola in April, 1864, and is the oldest regular practitioner now a resident of the county seat. His father, John R. Williams, was born in Wales, in May, 1808, and received a fine education in his native country. In 1830 lie came to the United States and settled in Baltimore, but being the possessor of ample means he engaged in no active pursuit. He was married in Pittsburg, Penn., in 1834, to Ann June Burgess, a native of England, and to them were born ten children. Becoming permanently identified with the Washington temperance movement he moved, in 1841, to Pittsburg, where he labored zealously for the cause, and became well known throughout the United States as one of the most earnest temperance advocates of the day. He was well informed, a pleasant speaker, and well calculated to rescue and exalt fallen humanity. He continued his noble work till his death in Cleveland, Ohio. The subject of this sketch is the second of his family, and was born in Baltimore, Md., Sept. 6, 1838. He removed with his family to Pittsburg in 1841, and in 1847 to Columbiana County, Ohio, where he grew to manhood, and received a liberal literary and scientific education. In 1860 he entered the oflSce of Dr. B. W. Speer, of Salem, Ohio, remaining a year, when he went to Cleveland, and continued his studies with Dr. M. F. Brooks, Chief Surgeon of the United States Marine Hospital, remaining there as student and physician until April, 1864, when he located in Angola, Ind. AVhile studying at the Marine Hospital he attended lectures at the Cleveland Medical College and graduated in the winter of 1863. His training in the hospital fitted him for the many arduous duties that fall to the lot of an experienced practitioner, and his courage and skill in dangerous cases have won him the confidence of his patients and the esteem of his brother practitioners. He has a large practice which yields him a good revenue. Of a kind, sympathetic nature his presence in the sick room is comforting, as well as reassuring.

A man of keen perceptions, quick to read human character, he is especially adapted to the sphere of a physician. Dignified in his beariog, yet pleasant and affable, he has many social friends who prize his friendship and admire his upright and straightforward course. Benevolent and liberal, he is the friend of the poor and needy, never refusing medical aid to any. Dr. Williams is a member of the Steuben County Medical and Surgical Society, and of the Michigan Southern Medical Society, and is one of the Censors of the Wayne Medical College. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity. He was married in Angola, Aug. 9, 1866, to Mary Carkhoff, daughter of William Carkhoif, one of the leading early citizens of Angola. They have one child - William.

^ugh D. Wood, M. D. - The majority of men who have attained eminence in our country have struggled up from poverty and obscurity to positions of fortune, or fame. Here nature's true noblemen come to the front by industry and energy and the people recognize their worth and give them the honor due as a reward for the exercise of their learning, genius or moral worth. They make our laws, shape our institutions and lay the foundation for the development of the minds of the masses. In the gentleman whose name heads this brief sketch the citizens of Steuben County have a leader in all that goes to make their county, as it is, one of the best in the State. Of untiring energy and restless activity, he is ever pressing toward the mark that insures the victor with the highest praise given the American citizen and attained only by close application and devotion to the pursuit chosen as his lifework. Hugh D. Wood was born in Bainbridge, Chenango Co., N. Y., June 28, 1836, and was the son of Joseph Wheeler Wood, who was born in New York in 1801, of English origin, and Sarah Wood, nee Farnham, who was born in Connecticut, Aug. 5, 1804, of Welsh descent. His parents were married in New York, and about 1843 moved to Williams County, Ohio, removing in 1846 to De Kalb County, Ind., where the father died in 1851, and the mother in 1859. Hugh D. was the sixth of a family of nine children. He attended the district schools in Williams County, Ohio, and De Kalb County, Ind., the most of which he paid for by doing chores before and after school hours. In 1856 he attended the Northeastern Institute at Orland, Ind., one year and subsequently Hillsdale College, Mich., till 1859, which completed his literary and scientific education. During his college life he taught school several terms and thus was enabled to work his way through college, independent and unaided. His vacations and leisure hours were spent in reading medicine under his brother, "W. A. Wood, at that time a resident of Metz. In 1860-'61 he attended a course of lectures at the medical department of the University of Buffalo, N. Y., and in February, 1861, be^^an to practice in Metz in connection with his brother, and the following year practiced alone. In the winter of 1863-'64 he attended lectures at Bellevue Hospital Medical College, New York, and the medical schools of Philadelphia, and in 1866-'67 again attended Bellevue Hospital College, graduating in 1867. May 6, 1869, he moved to Angola to fill the vacancy caused by the death of his brother, W. A. Wood, and in 1873-'74 attended a general course of lectures at three of the medical schools of New York. Thus he has obtained a thorough education in every branch of his profession, and by constant study and practice keeps apace with the leading physicians of the age. He was one of the organizers of the Fort Wayne Medical College and is Treasurer of the Board of Trustees and Dean of the facult)^ His specialty is surgery and he has performed many difficult operations. He is Professor of gynecology and clinical surgery in the Fort Wayne Medical College and delivers a lecture there twice each week. In 1879 he received the degree of A, M, from his Alma Mater, Hillsdale College, Mich. He is a member of the Steuben Medical Society, and was its President from 1866 till 1869, and Secretary several years of the Northeastern Indiana Medical Society, of which he was President in 1872, and Secretary since July 1, 1874; of the Indiana, Ohio and Michigan Tri-State Medical Society of which he was one of the Vice-Presidents in 1876; of the Allen County Medical Society; of the Southern Michigan Medical Association, of which he was President in 1883; of the American Medical Association and the International Medical Congress. He has been Secretary of the Steuben County Board of Health since its organization in 1881. As a physician he stands in the front rank in Northeastern Indiana, and the Northwest, aiid his practice is extensive and lucrative. He regards his profession from an elevated standpoint and the " quack" is in his eyes most despicable. The young physician struggling into a living practice finds in Dr. Wood a true friend and adviser. He inspires them to better and more extensive study and encourages with his sympathy and friendly interest. Believing that the world has a place for each of its cliildren, he has no need to discourage the weakest of his young brethren, but assists them to find the place best calculated to advance their material inter- ests. A courteous, affable gentleman, and a public-spirited, progressive citizen, he is a useful member of society, and his opinions, fearlessly expressed, are regarded with favor by his friends, and with respect by those differing from him. He was the first mover in establishing the Tri-State Normal College Association, located at Angola; raised nearly all the money for the grounds and buildings, and was its first and present President. Dr. Wood was married Dec. 3, 1863, to Joanna Powers, daughter of Hon. Clark and Hannah (Ketchum) Powers, natives of New York. Mrs. Wood was born in Steuben County, Dec. 15, 1845. But one of their three children is living, a son - Weir.

Theodore jF. Wood, M. D. - Few professional men have the good fortune to win the honest regard and confidence that Dr. Wood has gained among the people for miles surrounding the townof Metz. His Grandfather Wood was a native of Canada, of English parents, who moved to New York State, where he married and raised his family. The Doctor's father, Joseph Wheeler Wood, was born in New York in 1801, where he grew up and was married, his wife dying shortly after the birth of a daughter named Martha. He was again married to Miss Sarah Farnham, who was born in Connecticut, August, 1804, of Welsh origin, who bore him eight children, as follows: Warren Alphonso, Elizabeth, Sarah, Phedima, Hugh D., Melvina, Theodore F. and Frederick 13. Wood. The Doctor was born in Bainbridge, Chenango Co., N. Y, June, 1840, and in 1843 his parents removed to Williams County, Ohio, and in 1846 to De Kalb County, Ind., where his father died in February, 1851, his mother dying in the same county in 1859. After his father's death he went to live with his brother-in-law, D. S. S. Stough, who was a practicing physician of DeKalb County, with whom he remained about seven years, during which time he attended the district school in the winter terms, " doing chores" before and after school for his board and tuition. He then " hired out" as a farm hand for one year, and with the money thus obtained he started to Hillsdale College, where he remained off and on four years putting in his vacations at farming and teaching, devoting the proceeds in paying his way through college, which completed his literary and scientific education. In the meantime he put in every ^pare moment in the study of medicine, having resolved to become a physician while a boy around the office of Dr. Stoiigh. After leaving college he devoted his entire time to the study of his chosen profession, under his brother, W. Alphonso Wood, of Metz, with the exception of teaching a few terms of school in winter. In the winter of 1863-'64 he attended a course of lectures at Rush Medical College, Chicago, 111., after which he began practicing at Metz in connection with W. Alphonso, which partnership continued until 1865, when his brother having moved to Angola, he remained at Metz and began to practice for himself. In lS68-'69 he attended a course of lectures at Charity Hospital Medical College, Cleveland, Ohio, where he graduated the latter year, receiving his degree of M. D. In 1870 he spent a short time at Rush Medical College, Chicago, and in 1872-'73 he attended a course of lectures in the different medical schools of New York and Philadelphia. He was married in Angola, April, 1863, to Elizabeth Powers, daughter of Calvin and Emeline Powers, Mrs. Wood was born in Steuben County, Ind., January, 1842. They have had three children - Lillie (deceased), Edna and Alphonso Calvin Wood. Dr. Wood is a member of the Steuben County Medical Society, of which he has been President and Secretary several terms; of the Northeast Indiana Medical Society, of which he has been President, Yice-President and Treasurer; of the Williams County (Ohio) Medical Society; the Indiana State Medical Societj', and the American Medical Association. He has been one of the Board of Censors in the Fort Wayne Medical College. He belongs to the Masonic and Odd Fellows fraternities. As a physician Dr. Wood stands deservedly high and his practice is among the largest and most lucrative in the county. Located in a country town he has a general practice in all branches of medicine and surgery. In surgery he has an extensive practice; in the reduction of fractures and dislocations he has been eminently successful; has performed some important surgical operations, otably trephining of the skull. The Doctor has been particularly interested in obstetrical practice in which he has a large experience.

The Press

FiKST Journalistic Yentuee in the County was the Indiana Review. - Its Suocessoes. - Hoosiek Banner. - Truth Seeker. - The Steuben Repoblican. - Sketches of W. W. Ferrier, Oscar F. Rakestraw and Frank T. Burnham. - The Angola Herald. - Sketch of W. K. Sheffer.

The first newspaper published in Steuben County was the Indiana Review, which was started in 1848 by a man named Morton. The venture was not a successful one, and in a few months the journal was suspended. The second paper was called the Hoosier Banner, which came into existence early in 1855. Hunter & Dewey were the first publishers. Hunter soon severed his connection and the paper was continued for a time by Dewey. The Truth Seeker, 2^ Spiritualist and free-thought paper, was next established by Bowman & Louden, but after a brief existence it was suspended. It was subsequently revivified in New York City, where it is now a large, influential, well-conducted periodical, having an extensive circulation throughout the United States. It was made a success by the late D, M. Bennett, who was persecuted so much during the later years of his life by the notorious Anthony Comstock.

The Steuben Republican

Early in 1857 J. M. Bromagen, who had been publishing a paper at Auburn, De Kalb County, moved his office to Angola, and commenced publishing the Steuben Republican. The office being heavily encumbered, it soon became evident that Bromagen could not keep the paper going. Charles Case, who was a candidate for Congress in this district in 1857, did not wish the paper suspended, so arrangements were made whereby F. C. Chapin, now of Toledo, Ohio, took the Republican until after the election, when Charles G. Mugg came in possession. James B. Parker was the next editor, and after him W. H. H. Day, now of Moberly, Mo.

In 1861 Messrs. Eose & Macartney purchased the paper. Kose afterward withdrew from the lirin and in 1864 Macartney sold to J. J. Miner, who was soon succeeded by O. W. Parish. J. A. Myrtle was the next to try liis hand at the newspaper business, but soon took into partnership R. II, Weamer.

After "Weamer retired, Myrtle continued the publication for a time, and then leased the paper to W. C. McGonigal. April 8, 1874, Germ Brown and Francis Macartney took the office and made many improvements in the paper. In June, 1875, Mr. Macartney retired and was succeeded by James U. Miller. The following January the paper was enlarged to a nine-column folio and a new outfit including a power press was purchased.

In May, 1878, the form of the Rejpiiblican was changed from a folio to a six-column quarto. The following August Germ Brown, the senior editor, died; and in the spring of 1879 Mr. Miller purchased from the estate the interest formerly owned b}' Mr. Brown. Mr. Miller continued the paper under his name for five years, but in the meantime, Nov. 9, 1881, the Steuben County Journal was founded by Messrs. W. W. Ferrier and Oscar F. Rakestraw. It was a six-column quarto, Republican in politics, and published Wednesdays at $1.50 per year. The Journal prospered and acquired a fair proportion of patronage and good will. April 1, 1884, Ferrier & Rakestraw purchased the Repuhlican of Mr. Miller and consolidated the two papers, retaining the name of the older. It was deemed desirable to use the name of the county in the title of the paper, and, too, the Repuhlican was well known within and outside of the county from its age, thus making the name a valuable one from an advertising point of view.

The Steuhen Rejyuhllcan is one of the very best country newspapers in the Northwest, and has become one of the most influential journals in Northern Indiana. Its circulation is nearly 3,000. Messrs. Ferrier & Rakestraw associated with themselves, at the time of the consolidation of the two papers, Mr. Frank T. Burnham, former editor of the Republican, who had for several weeks been in their employ as assistant editor of the Journal.

William W. Ferrier was born at Metz, this county, July 18, 1855, the son of William and Olive M. (Thompson) Ferrier, both of whom were natives of Ohio. Mr. Ferrier, Sr., came to Metz in an early day, and for twenty-two years kept a store at that point. In 1875 he removed to Angola, his present residence. He has two daughters (Mrs. Dr. Waller and Mrs. Stephen O. Powers), and one son, the subject of this sketch. The latter attended the common district school and assisted in his father's store until 1872. He then entered Otterbein Universitj, at Westerville, Ohio. At this institution, which is under the control of the United Brethren, he studied six years, and was graduated with the degree of B. A. in June, 1878. Three years later he received the usual degree of A, M., given to graduates of three years' standing. Mr. Ferrier passed his time in looking after property belonging to himself and father, and also read law for a time, until November, 1881, when he entered upon his present occupation - journalism. He was married Feb. 23, 1881, to Miss Adessa Jarvis, daughter of Joseph J. Jarvis, of Straitsville, Wayne County, Ohio. Mr, and Mrs. Ferrier are members of the United Brethren church.

Oscar F. Rakestraw was born in Mahoning Count}^ Ohio, Oct. 30, 1819, the son of Caleb and Elezan E.. Rakestraw, both of whom were natives of the Buckeye State. Caleb Rakestraw was for several years a carpenter, but came to Steuben County in 1858, settling near Metz, and engaged in farming. In addition, he also keeps a hotel. His wife died in 1874, leaving four children. The oldest is Oscar F. The others are Mrs. Richard Gale, living west of Angola; Mrs. John Dustman, of Coldwater, and Mrs. Anna Dunham, of Angola. The subject of this brief biography attended the district school, and also, in 1861, studied for a time at Hillsdale. Afterward he was at school at Angola. Entering the Angola postoffice during the incumbency of Alfred Osborn, he served as assistant until 1871. In that year he commenced working as an insurance agent, being thus engaged until 1877, except one winter spent at Hillsdale College. In 1877 he entered the Republican office, and in June, 1880, he once more engaged in the insurance business, in the employ of the Connecticut General, of Hartford. He was special a2;ent for this company from June, 1880, till March, 1883, going to New England in December, 1882, and traveling there until forced by illness to abandon the work. In the meantime, November, 1881, he assisted in the establishment of the Journal, with which he continued his connection while engaged in the insurance business. Since March, 1883, he has given his entire time to the Journal^ and to its successor, the Repuhlican. He was married June 10, 1879, to Melissa Cline, daughter of Michael and Barbara Cline, of Angola. Mr. and Mrs. Rakestraw are members of the Disciples' or Christian church.

the son of Theodore and Emily C. (Cady) Burnhain, natives respectively of Connecticut and Massachusetts. The father, who was Treasurer of the Nashawanuck Manufacturing Company (at that time the only suspender manufactory in the United States), died a month before Frank was born. When the latter was three years old, his mother removed with him to Baraboo, Wis., where she died in Sspteraber, 1874. Frank studied in the public schools and was for a time in the High School grade. In 18Y1 he went to California, with the purpose merely of making a visit; but in the end he remained three or four years, assisting in his uncle's store at Sonora. In December, 1874, he returned to Baraboo, where he taught school for two years. In 1876 he went to Chicago, where he was first connected with the Hotel Reporter^ afterward being legislative correspondent of the Daily News. In the summer of 1878, he was employed as a special correspondent of the Times, and in August of that year he entered the commission house of Lasher & Son as a stenographic correspondent. In April, 1879, he came to Angola, and he has since been connected with the Republican^ except a few weeks during the winter of 1883-'4. He was married Nov. 27, 1879, to Hattie E. Sexton, daughter of A. J. Sexton, of Kilbourne City, Wis. Of this marriage one daughter has been born, April 15, 1881, named Elva.

The Akgola Hekald

was established in January, 1876, by Isaac L. Wiseman, who brought the press and material here from Ohio. The Hey^ald was then a five- column quarto sheet, devoted to the interests of the Democratic party. It was printed on a job press, one page at a time. In September of the same year Mr. Wisemin sold to William B. McConnell, Esq., a one-half interest in the office, when a hand-press, a quarto-medium Gordon job press, and considerable other new material were added to the office. A few weeks later, Mr. McConnell became sole proprietor, and the form of the paper was changed to an eight-column folio, which was subsequently reduced to a seven- column folio. In July, 1877, W. K Shefler, of Ligonier, Ind., purchased a one-half interest in the material and good will of the office, and assumed control as editor and publisher, the style of the firm being McConnell & Shelfer. The paper was at this time supplied with a new heading, the word "weekly" being dropped from its title. In July, 1878, Mr. Sheffer became sole proprietor of the Herald, and six months later he again enlarged

Under its present management the Herald has improved very much, and its subscription list has increased largely. It is now in a prosperous condition. A good job-printing department is connected with the paper, and altogether it justly ranks among the leading local newspapers of the State.

William K. Sheffer, the present publisher of the Herald, was born in Morrow County, Ohio, July 6, 1845, the son of Adam and Rachel Sheffer, natives respectively of Maryland and Pennsylvania. His youth was passed in his native county, and in his twentieth year he went to Kendallville, Noble Co., Ind., where he remained about eight years, and where he first engaged in the printing business. In April, 1872, he entered the office of the Ligonier ^«;i?i^r, where he remained until July, 1877, when he came to Angola and purchased a half interest in the Herald, becoming sole proprietor in January following. He was married in Ligonier, Ind., Nov. 27, 1873, to Miss Eliza A. Pence, daughter of Samuel N. and Hannah Pence. Mrs. Sheflfei- was born in Stark County, Ohio, Aug. 16, 1848, and has been the mother of three children - Lenora Elraa, born June 6, 1876; Sammie Edwin, born Nov. 19, 1880; and Laura Bessie, born Sept. 10, 1882, and died Jan. 17, 1883.