York Township

York Township

York Township is situated in the eastern tier, on the Ohio line, and is bounded as follows : On the north by Fremont and Clear Lake townships; on the east by Williams County, Ohio; on the south by Richland and Otsego townships, and on the west by Scott. When first erected by the Board of Commissioners in November, 1837, the civil township was made to include congressional township 37 north, ranges 14 and 15 east. The following year two tiers of sections were taken from the west side and attached to Pleasant Township. In March, 1849, the township was divided, fractional township 37, range 15 retaining the original name. In March, 1850, a strip one mile in width was taken from Scott Township and added to York, making the township six miles in length by nearly three and three-fourths in width. The area is therefore about twenty -two square miles, or 14,500 acres.

The surface of the land ie rolling, the soil generally a rich clay loam, specially adapted to grazing purposes. The land was originally covered by a dense growth of timber, among which abounded black walnut, oak, white wood, cherry and other valuable timber. This forest wealth has been almost destroyed by the necessary ravages of improvement, and the reckless waste of people who thouglit the supply exhaustless. The township is drained chiefly by Fish Creek and its branches, all flowing in a southerly direction. The northern portion is on the divide between the waters flowing into lakes Michigan and Erie, a small portion of the town-

The first entry of land was made by Kichard Peters, May 12, 1836, being all of fractional section 4. During the same month Koyal B. Hix, George W. Johnson, Martin Eldridge and several other persons located lands in the township. The first white settler was Fayette Barron, who built his cabin on the site of the present village of Metz, in the summer of 1836. In 1837 Clark and Calvin Powers, who had visited the county the previous vear and located land, arrived, also Stephen A. and Winn Powers, Augustus Wood worth and Jackson Cory. From that time to 1840 there came Jeremiah Dillingham and his sons, John Larue, Adam Dygert, Cowee Barns, Griswold and Alvah Phelps, Charles F. Hodges, George Jenks, who was a half brother of the Powers, Royal Hix, George W. Johnson, David K. Jones, John Croy and others. These pioneers and a large portion of those who followed in after years were from the State of New York.

Yolney Powers, son of Stephen A. and Mary Ann Powers, was the first white child born in the township, Mowry Powers, son of William and Betsey Powers, died in 1838, which was the first death in the township. He was buried in what is now the Powers cemetery. The first marriage occurred in 1841, the contracting parties being Augustus W. Woodworth and Mary Johnson, Stephen A. Powers, Esq., ofiiciating.

Thomas Parsons (deceased), was born near Harrisburg, Pa. in April, 1823. In early life he emigrated with his parents to Crawford County, Ohio, and settled near Leesville, where he was married Sept. 16, 1845, to Xancy M. Mc Claskey, who died Aug. 7, 1876. In October, 1845, he emigrated to Lagrange, Ind., where he resided about two years. He then removed to York Township Steuben County, which was his home the remainder of his life. He died at Angola, July 9, 1880, aged fifty-seven years and three months. During the latter part of his life he sufiered much from a nervous affiiction which many times caused mental aberration, and WHS the cause of much anxiety to his friends and neighbors.

Calvin Powers (deceased), one of Yorks most esteemed citizens was born in Ontario County, K Y., March 5, 1808. From the Empire State he came to Indiana and settled in York Township, this county, in the early summer of 1837. He was one of the several brothers who settled in that neighborhood, which has always since that time borne their name. His energy, industry and care- ful matiagetnent contributed not only to his own prosperity, but to the welfare and advancement of the neighborhood and county in a marked degree. These characteristics, in connection with a very decided firmness, integrity and uprightness, rendered him a prominent and influential man, and gave him no inconspicuous place in the history of the county. The various positions of trust and responsibility to which he was called were discharged with scrupulous regard for right and justice. He took great interest in the moral and educational advancements of the community, and labored with modest endeavor to forward the work of schools and churches. Mr. Powers is buried in the cemetery which bears his name, and near the place where he began life as a pioneer of the county, and where he passed so many years of an industrious life. He was twice married, his second wife surviving him. He also left six children - three sons and three daughters.

Joseph W. Thomas (deceased) was born in Bucks County, Pa. , in 1823, and moved with his parents, Moses and Prudence Thomas, to Crawford County, Ohio, in 1835, and five years later to Williams County, in the northwest corner of the Buckeye State. He was the second of a family of eleven children. His early years were attended with the usual hardships known only to the pioneer, and developed in him a vigorous manhood. He settled in York Township, this county, soon after 1840, and during the first year of his residence here taught school with flattering success. He held various offices in his community, and satisfactorily discharged the duties of all. He died June 7, 1882, after a severe illness of months.

A Reminiscence Of Pioneer Days By Andrew Ceoy

John Croy, his son Andrew, and Elmus Barron, being of rather reckless dispositions, resolved to go on a hunting expedition. This was in the year 1841, and at that time the forests abounded with wild animals, such as bears, wolves, wildcats, etc. Being packed for the chase with blankets, provisions, dog and guns, these three men started out for near Mud Lake, J^orth West Township, Williams Co., Ohio, and after experiencing much difficulty, they finally reached the land of their hopes. After erecting their camp as quickly as possible, to protect them from the rain, Croy and Barron thought they would steal out that afternoon, and perchance capture a bruin, leaving Andrew to keep camp and get supper ready. It being dark and rainy, they lost their way, and Andrewfearing that such must be the case, used his lungs with all power and energy, pounded on old trees, and felled a large tree, hoping thereby, to guide thera back, but all to no effect. When the wanderers found that they were lost theyasked themselves, " What shall we do to be saved,'' and the answer was "fix shelter for the night, without supper, and make a life struggle in the morning for it." At night, while meditating over the past, devising some plan to retrace their wanderings, they thought to escape by following their back tracks, which they did some time the next afternoon, by the ground and leaves being so wet and soft. But lo! on reaching their camp, Andrew, dog, provisions and blankets were gone. Andrew, after staying there till the following day, had given up all hope of their return and started for home, arriving there a little before night had set in, Croy and Barron soon after reached home, having had nothing to eat except a squirrel since leaving camp. They came to the conclusion that civilization was not so bad after all.

An Incident Of Early Times By Elmus Barron

David K. Jones, one of the noted pioneers of York Township, came with his mother from New Hampshire in the spring of 1835, and settled on the banks of Wall Lake, west of Orland, in what was known in those days as the Vermont settlement. In 1836 he entered land in York and Richland for himself, his mother, and other parties. In the spring of 1838 he and his mother settled on the south half of the northeast quarter of section 32, and in 1840 built themselves a cabin. When Jones was living on section 32, wild animals abounded in the forests, and he experienced much trouble with bears trying to steal his pigs, and Mr. Jones not being much of a hunter, was generally unprepared for their night attacks. One night Bruin made his way to the pig-pen of Mr. Jones, which was about three rods from the cabin, when after securing his prey he started for the woods with the pig in his arms. The pig's cries soon brought Mr. Jones out of his bed, and grabbing the poker, he started for the chase. The bear, after going about six rods from the pen, came to a brush fence which bothered him to get over with his burden-, and at this place Mr. Jones came up to him and struck a blow, which, owing to tiie darkness and excitement, missed the bear and struck the pig. After following close to the bear's heels to go farther over brush fences and through nettles three feet high made his way back as best he could. The next day several of the neighbors went out to hunt the bear. They found the remain? of the pig a short distance from where Mr. Jones had left them the night before, but the bear was not to be found-

Fiest Events

The first school was taught in the winter of 1838, by Winn Powers, in a log cabin located near where the Powers school-house was afterward built. This was the only school in the township until 1844, when a frame house was erected on the land of Stephen A. Powers near the center of the township. This house was long known as the York school-house. Stephen A. Powers taught the first school here. The same year a rough log school-house was erected near Hathaway's corners, in which Martin Eldredge commenced teaching, but after two weeks the school was discontinued, not through any fault of the teacher, but for want of scholars, the entire enumeration of the district not exceeding ten children.

About the year 1840, the Methodists organized a class near the center of the township. They met in private houses, and later in the school-houses. They were occasionally cheered and revived by visits from the circuit preachers. In 1850 a church was fully organized at Hathaway's corners, the membership of which became quite numerous, and in 1853 they erected a meeting-house at that point, which is still standing. Very early in the history of the county the Free-Will Baptists had an organization, and met for worship at the houses of Adam Dygert, Cowee Barns, and at other places. Their ministers were Elder J. H. Miner, Silas Ileadley and occasionally others. In 1842, a few Disciples, who had recently emigrated from Bedford, Ohio, organized a church of which Burdett B. Goodale was made pastor. This formed the nucleus for the present flourishing church at Metz, which now numbers about 150 members, and has a pleasant and commodious house of worship. Through the efforts of the Powers family a free church building was erected a few years since on section 2i^, on land donated by Clark Powers. It was called by its founders the Free church, but is now and probably will always be called the Powers church.

Stephen A. Powers was the first Justice of the Peace. Peter Klock was the first blacksmith. A grist-mill was built in 1844, on Fish Creek, by Andrew Ferrier. This mill was built of hewn logs; the bolt for some time was turned by hand, the elevator was a tin pail, and all the appliances were extremely cheap and rude. It was long known as the Pepper Mill, and it was facetiously said that it cracked two grains of corn into three pieces. In 1845 Clark Powers built a saw-mill on Fish Creek, on section 19, and in 1846 George Peters built a steam saw-mill on section 4. Both tliese mills were burned many years ago. The first frame house was built by Bel a Dillingham on section 30. It is still in use as a part of Myron Powers' horse-barn. The first frame barn was built by Griswold Phelps on section 17.

The village plat of Metz covers portions of sections 5 and 6 of Richland Township, and of sections 31 and 32 of York. The first settler of this village was Fayette Barron, who came here in the fall of 1836. His home was made in the limits of York Township, being the pioneer settler of that township. This was years before any thought of a village here was entertained. The next settler was Joseph Bennett. One half a mile south a store was started in 1841 by Henry Letcher.

The first mill in this vicinity was a primitive log structure about twenty feet square, built in 1844, by David Ferrier. The rude mill contained one rudely made set of stones; the bolting was done by hand. It was generally called "The Pepper Mill," and was one mile east of Metz. It was operated twelve years or more. A steam flouring mill owned by Shafi'er & Shenhour, now stands near its site.

The first goods in Metz were opened by Justice Barron in 1851, who was in trade about three years, when he sold to Oscar Swift. The first blacksmith was Joel Wilson, who opened a shop in 1851. The first .hotel was opened on the present hotel site in 1851, by Dr. E. Pattee who was a resident physician of Metz. In 1854 Edward Sargeant opened a hotel on the site now occupied by the residence of Dr. Wood.

The postoffice was established in 1850, and named Metz by request of Adam Simon, who was instrumental in securing a mail route from Toledo to Lagrange Centre. Joseph Bennett was the first Postmaster. Nathaniel Petitt started a wagon shop in 1854. The plat of the York side of Metz was made in 1855, Jerry Graves, E. L. & J.Barron proprietors. The plat of the Richland side was

The schools of Metz are in flourishing condition, for which the vilL-ige deserves great credit; in efHciency and in work accomplished will compare favorably with any village in the county.

The business firms of the village are: J. W. Goodale, furniture and undertaking; Goodale & Stevens, dry -goods; Culver & Norris, dry-goods; C. S. Myers & Co., drugs; JBowsier & Porter, hardware; Samuel D. Porter, postoffice; Caleb Kakeotraw, hotel; Job Williams, blacksmith; William Austin, blacksmith; Alonzo Williams, blacksmith; B. JBurch, wagon and repair shop; J. B. Shaffer, flouring mill; William Keek, saw-mill; Henry liapp, shoemaker; El. Barron, gunsmith; Mrs. Culver, millinery. The physicians are: Drs. F. F. Wood, C. W. Goodale, E. F. Staufler and H. M. Byall.

The population of the township was in 1870, 857; and in 1880, I 099 - an increase of 242. This indicates a population of fifty per square mile.

bushels; total crop, 26,231; acres of corn, 1,253; average yield, upland, 32 busliels per acre; bottom, 30 bushels per acre; total crop, 39,736 bushels; acres of oats, 571; average yield per acre, 29 bushels; total yield, 16,559 bushels; acres of meadow, 857; average yield of hay, one and a half tons; total crop, r,285 ton&; acres of potatoes, 103; average yield per acre, 581 bushels; total yield, 5,974 bushels.

In 1884 the number of acres of land assessed was 14,476.90; value of same, $143,445; value of improvements, $36,715; value uf personal pro])erty, $47,170; total valuation, $227,330; number of polls, 164; number of dogs, 77; total taxes levied, $4,757.94. As property is assessed on a basis of one-third, this would indicate a total wealth of $681,990.

zation of that party; before that it was Democratic in all presidential years except 1S48, when the Whig ticket carried by sixteen Votes. Following is the vote cast at each presidential election:

The following names are of those elected to till the different township offices since 1850, and the years given are those in which they were respectively chosen:

1868, Joseph W. Thomas and Henry P. Hathaway; 1870, Henry Hathaway and Sylvester Gilbert; 1872, William R. Mitchell; 1874, George Sender; 1876, Harvey D. Ellis and James Hight; 1880, John Musser and Larry Gnndrum; 1884, Benton Dnnavan and George W. Powers.

Constables - l^ft^^ James Sloan and Gain Bark; 1860, Gain Burk and Sheldon Daniels; 1861, Sheldon Daniels and S. M. LaRue; 1862, Park. Hathaway and Henry Brooks; 1863, Park. Hathaway and Samuel B. Kelso; 1864, Samuel B. Kelso and J. O. Rose; 1865, G. L. Stevens and Jackson Alguire; 1866, Samuel Kelso and Jeremiah Dillingham; 1868, William Reid and J. H. Handy;

1869, J. J. Shatto and J. H. Handy; 1870, Henry Hawver and John H. Handy; 1872, A. N. Parish and John H. Handy; 1874, Garrett Gaskill and Martin H. Smith; 1878, John F. Musser and John Henry; 1880, Joseph McGrew and William Davis; 1882, Tracey Yaughan and Charles Hubbell; 1884, Tracey Vaughan and A. C. Demont.

Biographical

Elmus L. Barron, son of Fayette and Arvilla Barron, was born Feb. 14, 1823. He came to this State with his parents at an early date, and remained with them till their death. He was married Dec. 17, 1845, to Roxana A., daughter of David and Emily (Goodale) Benjamin, and to them were born four children - Alsin us, a minister of Metz; Fayette, Mrs. Evelyn Allman and Ashley. Mr. Barron is by occupation a farmer and gunsmith, and makes his residence in the village of Metz. He in early years delighted in the chase,and has killed over 500 deer in this vicinity. He yet enjoys life to its fullest extent. He is a Democrat in politics. Mrs,

Barron's parents came to this county in 1843 with their three dauo;hters - Roxanna A., wife of our subject; Clarinda, who married Daniel Rummel, and died in 1878, in her forty-eighth year; and Melvina, wife of Nathaniel Petitt. Mr. Goodale died Aug. IT, 1833, in his thirty-fourth year. His wife died in her fiftieth year, Jan. 17, 1865.

Fayette Barron, one of the pioneers of York Township, was born in Grafton County, N. H., Aug. 10, 1794. April 9, 1816, he married Ar villa Bradford, who was born in Vermont, March 26, 1792, the youngest of eleven children of Major Bradford, a hero of the Revolution. In the summer of 1832 they moved to Sandusky County, Ohio, and in April, 1836, came to Steuben County, and stopped at the Vermont settlement, now the town of Orland, through the summer, and in November came to York Township, The Indians were their neighbors when they tirst came to the county, and it was nine months before Mrs. Barron saw a white woman. Mr. Barron entered 160 acres of land on section 32, York Township, on which is now located a part of the village of Metz, This land he began to clear and was rapidly converting it into a farm when he was called from this life to the one beyond, April 9, 1840, aged forty-six years. Mrs. Barron died Aug. 11, 1866. They were members of the Baptist church. Their children were four in number - Roswell died in 1842, in his twenty-fourth year; Elmus L., of Metz; Justus, of Toledo, Ohio; Ar villa, died in 1873, aged forty-four years. She was the wife of De Witt Goodale of this county.

Harmon Boyer was born in Stark County, Ohio, Dec. 4, 1827. When in his tenth year his parents, John and Sarah Boyer, moved to De Kalb County, Ind., and in February of the following year to Otsego Township, of this county, where his father entered 160 acres of land and made a farm. He was one of the pioneers of that township. Five children were born in Ohio, and one in Steuben County - David, of Minn.; Harmon, our subject; Mary Ann (deceased), wife of Heman Trowbridge; Margaret, died aged eighteen years; Mrs. Louisa Mayhood, of Fremont; Martha Ann (deceased), wife of John Mayhood. John Boyer died May 3, 1861, aged sixty-one years, and his widow, Sarah Boyer, March 11, 1864, aged sixty-three years. Harmon Boyer lived with his parents until be was past twenty-three years of age. He was married Sept. 5, 1852, to Diantha Gaskell, daughter of George and Theodosia Gaskell, early settlers of York Township, coming from New York in 1839.

Her father died Oct. 10, 1870, aged sixty-three years, and her mother Nov. 17, 1884, aged seventy-five years. Mr. Boyer has always followed farming. He commenced married life in Otsego Township, and moved to York in the spring of 1864, and located on the farm of sixty acres, which he now owns on section 21. Mr. and Mrs. Boyer have six children - Plin Y.; Marcus D. ; Mrs. Sarah Eggleston of Jackson County, Mich.; Mrs. Theodosia Foster, of Williams County, Ohio; Adam and Lamora, Adam was married Feb. 25, 1885, to Florilla Moss, daughter of Raphel and Louisa Moss, uf Williams County, Ohio. In politics Mr. Boyer is a Republican, and in religion, is a member of the Disciples church.

William Brooks, a representative of one of the pioneer families of Steuben County, was born in Derbyshire, England, April 8, 1822, a son of George and Elizabeth Brooks. He was eight years of age when his parents came to the United States and settled in Ontario County, N. Y., and fourteen when they removed to Steuben County, and since that time he has been identified with York Township and has witnessed its growth from a wilderness to its present condition of prosperity and thrift. He has been successful in his pursuits and has a fine farm of 133 acres on section 36, which was the old homestead of his father. He was married May 31, 1848, to Mary Richmond, a native of Wayne County, K. Y., born Dec. 24, 1824, daughter of Isaac S. and Sarah Richmond. When she was a child her parents moved to Ontario County, N. Y. , and thence in October, 1841, to Steuben County, Ind., locating in York Township. Their eldest son, Lysander, preceded them by two years, and died here in 1855. Seven children accompanied the parents to tlieir new home - George, (deceased); Mrs. Maria Butler, of Scott Township; Mrs. Brooks; Mrs. Diana Croy, of Metz; Mrs. Orpha Jackman, also of Metz; Mrs. Jennette Wolcott, of York Townshi]», and Charles P., of Scott Township. They settled on section 25 of York Township, entering 160 acres of land. The mother died Oct. 18, 1864, aged seventy-three years, and the father May 6, 1874, lacking only eleven days of eighty-two years. Mr. and Mrs. Brooks have had five children, but three of whom are living - Frank E., Luretta, wife of Alonzo Kellogg, and Sarah E. Lorenzo died at the age of five years and Lurana aged two years. In politics Mr. Brooks is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

eating there in 1825. He was reared a farmer remaining with his parents till manhood. He was married March 4, 1858, to Mary Brinker, a native of Westmoreland County, Pa., born March 12, 1838. Her parents moved to Marion County whenshe was a child, and there her mother died and her father still lives. In 1866 they left Marion County and became identified with the interests of Steuben County, baying a farm in Salem Township, where they lived till September, 1873, when they bought the farm of ninety-five acres on section 8, York Township, where they now live. They have won many friends since coming to this county, and are among the most prominent citizens of the township. They are members of the Disciple's church and strict adherents to its tenets. In politics he is a radical Prohibitionist. To them have been born ten children - Fanny, Emma (died when sixteen years of age), John, Mary, Martha, Alma, George, William, Isora, and Curtis.

Chester Dunham was born July 17, 1810, in Frankfort, Herkimer Co., N". Y., a son of John andElizabeth Dunham. His parents moved to Cleveland, Ohio, in 1818, where his father died with cancer, aged sixty-three years, and his mother died in her eightyseventh year. Our subject was married July 17, 1844, to Miss Amanda Harper, a native of Cuyahoga County, Ohio, born March 9, 1821. She died April 5, 1884. Mr. Dunham lived in Cuyahoga County till 1866, his children being born in that county. Their names are - Delilah, who has been an invalid since ten years of age, Emily and Sarah, all living at home, and John Henry, Franklin S. and Martin L., residents of this township. Mr. Dunham has operated a cheese factory in the past successfully, and was also in the dairy business before coming to this county. He brought considerable capital with him, which he has increased. His present home is on section 30, this township, where he has a fine farm containing 160 acres. He pays great attention to stock raising, having one of the finest stock farms in Steuben County. He is one of the most active men to be found in the county, and although in his seven tj'-sixth year he attends to his large amount of stock, and does all the work except in the seasons of growing and gathering the crops.

Lorenzo Dunham was born in Bedford Township, Cuyahoga Co., Ohio, May 29, 1833, a son of John and Elizabeth Dunham, early settlers of Cuyahoga County, from Herkimer County, N. Y. He is the youngest of ten children; all save the eldest, Ambrose, are living, three being residents of Steuben County, viz.: Chester,

B06 History Of Steuben County

Alonzo and Lorenzo. March 14, 1860, Mr. Dunham was married to Sarah Ann Riddles, a native of London, England, born Sept. 17, 1839. When she was five years of age her parents, William and Ann Riddles, came to the United States and settled in Cleveland, Ohio, where her mother died in 1848. Her father is living at Berea. Of a family of six children Mrs. Dunham is the only one living. Mr. and Mrs. Dunham have had five children - Theodore, born in Ohio, married and resides in this township; James, also born in Ohio; Florence, died October, 1878, aged eight years; Rozenar and Olive. In February, 1864, Mr. Dunham became identified with Steuben County, locating on section 25, York Township, where they lived till 1879, when he bought his present home on section 29. He owns 140 acres in the homestead and 160 acres on section 25. After coming to Steuben County he engaged in buying and shipping live-stock to Eastern markets, Cleveland, Bufi'alo and Pittsburg being the principal points. He was in limited circumstances when he came to the county, but by his strict business integrity and capability, added to his attention to his business, he has been successful and has now a good property. In politics he is a Republican, and takes an interest in all the prominent issues of the day though no aspirant for official honors.

Joseph C. Elliott was born in Montgomery County, N. Y., June 20, 1822, a son of Samuel W. and Sally Elliott. In the spring of 1840 he came to Steuben County, Ind., with his brother Samuel H., and located land in York Township. He was a single man and made his brother's house his home. He worked at whatever he could do the best, and was often employed in Hillsdale County, Mich., where he became acquainted with Sarah Garrett, to whom he was married Dec. 18, 1854. She was born in the State of Pennsylvania, Dec. 20, 1831, a daughter of Jacob and Christine Garrett, natives of the same State. Her father died in Sandusky County, Ohio, and her mother in Branch County, Mich. After their marriage they lived in Hillsdale County three years and then moved to Steuben County and settled on section 6, York Township, where they have since lived. Their farm contains 120 acres of land, sixty-five of which are under cultivation, and their residence and faim buildings are comfortable and commodious. To Mr. and Mrs. Elliott have been born five children - Josephine, wife of Francis G. Story; Janette, died in the nineteenth year of her age; Francis F., married to May Odell, May 9, 1885; John H. and Jessie are at home. Mr. Elliott is a member of Northeastern Lodge, No.

210, F. & A. M., of Fremont. In politics he is a Democrat. Samuel R. Elliott, one of the earlj settlers of York Township, came to Steuben County in company with his brother, Joseph C, in the spring of 1840, from Huron County, Ohio. They cleared five acres and in the fall seeded it to wheat. The location made at that time by Samuel Elliott he still owns and occupies, on section 13. He was born in Montgomery County, N. Y., Aug. 29, 1818, a son of Samuel W. and Sally Elliott, who moved to Monroe County, N. Y., where the father died about 1830. In 1831 the mother and her children moved to Lorain County, Ohio. She subsequently married Clark Winans and moved to Huron County. She died at the residence of her son Joseph, in this township, in 1865. Her family comprised ten children - Chauncy S., Horace B., Mrs. Hannah McClellan, Mrs, Amanda Austin, Mrs. Mary Yosburg, Samuel H., Mrs. Mary E. Sage, Joseph C, William and John H. Chauncy S., Horace B., Mrs. Yosburg and William are deceased. Mrs. Mc- Clellan is living in Kansas, the others are residents of this county. Jan. 1, 1846, our subject was married to Mrs. Jane Edwards, widow of John Edwards and daughter of Robert and Mary Srailley. She was born in Holmes County, Ohio, March 18, 1821. She had one son, Danford G. Edwards, born Jan. 30, 1842. He was a fine, intelligent young man, and was one of the many brave boys who gave their lives for their country. Having enlisted twice and been prevented from going by sickness, he enlisted the third time in Company K, Seventh Indiana Cavalry, and was killed in Weakley County, Tenn., Dec. 29, 1863. To Mr. and Mrs. Elliott have been born four children - John H., who was born Nov. 26, 1846, was a gallant soldier serving over three years as a member of Company E, Seventh Indiana Cavalry. He was married Nov. 27, 1873, to Matilda Call, and died at his parents' home Jan. 15, 1881, aged thirty-four years, leaving three children - Ada B., Maggie J., and Berton H. Robert died in infancy. Emma C, born Dec. 9, 1850, was married June 26, 1870, to H. J. Wilson, and with her husband and only child, Jennie J., resides on the old homestead with her father. Frances M., born May 27, 1860, married John Clark Sept. 2, 1874, and in 1877 went with him to Arkansas, where he died July 15, 1880, of yellow fever, aged thirty-two years. She with her only child, John, born Feb. 23, 1881, now lives with her parents. Oct. 10, 1861, Mr. Elliott enlisted in Company K/Fortyfourth Indiana Infantry. The first of his service was as hospital steward. He was in the ranks at Perryville and Stone River, and at the latter battle was disabled and sent to the hospital, and subsequently was discharged for disability. In 1870 he moved to A.ntrim County, Mich., and built the first house in Mancelona Township. He was Township Treasurer and Justice of the Peace four years while there, but being unwilling to await the developments of another new country he returned to his home in this township in 1876. He is one of the tried and trusted tnen of the township, and is at present serving as Supervisor. He is a Republican in politics. He and his family are all members of the Disciples church. He is a member of Fremont Lodge, No. 210, F. & A. M., and of Kilpatrick Post, No. 46, G. A. R.

Harvey D. Ellis, senior member of the firm of Ellis & Son, general merchants, York Center, Ind., was born in Montgomery County, N. Y., Dec. 18, 1829, the only child of Moses and Marinda (Davis) Ellis. When he was about five years of age his parents moved to Cattaraugus County, N. Y., and thence to Erie County, Pa., and in 1857 came to Steuben County and settled in Y^ork Township where they both died several years ago. They were members of the Baptist church and conscientious . and devoted Christians. Harvey D. Ellis was married in Cattaraugus County, N. Y., to Emily Card, a native of Rhode Island. To them have been born four children - Dora, wife of Enoch Davis; Egbert, of this township; William H., partner of his father, married Ethie Plumly, and has one child, Vera; and Permelia, wife of Louis Southworth. Mr. Ellis owns a residence property of thirty-four acres of land and also the store and fixtures where he is doing business. The genial and accommodating manners of the proprietors have built for them a large and and constantly increasing trade. They also buy and ship produce which in itself is a good business. Mr. Ellis is Postmaster at York Center.

John Ferrier was born in Hancock County, Ohio, Aug. 5, 1830. His parents, David and Susannah Ferrier, were natives of Ohio. In 1837 they moved from Hancock to Williams County, and from there in 1864 to Steuben County, Ind., and settled in Richland Township, where the father died June 27, of the same year, aged fifty -four years. The mother died April 23, 1882, aged eighty-one years. Their family consisted of eight children, six born in Hancock County and two in Williams County, Ohio - William, of Angola,; George, a member of a Massachusetts cavalry regiment in the war of the Rebellion, was killed Feb. 22, 1864, by one of Mosby's cavalry; Mrs. Mary Reed, of Richland Township; John, our subject; Andrew, of De Kalb County; David and Jacob, of Kansas; and Mrs. Martha Wisner, deceased. Our subject's grandfather, Andrew Ferrier, was a native of Ireland and came to this country when young. He married his wife, Catherine Ferrier, in her native State, Pennsylvania, and in 1844 they settled in this township, Cuming here from Williams County, Ohio. He built the tirst mill on Fish Creek in York Township. John Ferrier remained at home till 1852 when he went overland to California, reaching his destination July 12. He remained there engaged in mining and farming five years and Feb. 28, 1857, returned to Steuben County. May 3 of the same year he was married to Mary Richardson, who was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, Feb. 11 1839, daughter of Isaac and Rachel Richardson, who moved to Williams County in 1853, and in 1856 came to this township, where they still live. To Mr. and Mrs. Ferrier have been born fourteen children, twelve of whom are living - Edwin E., Mrs. Francis Bell Lechliedner, Mrs. Rachel Robinett, Stephen, Herbert and Hattie (twins), James, Susan, Elizabeth, Sylvia, George and John. The eldest, Norman H., and one other died in infancy. In politics Mr. Ferrier is a Republican. He and his wife and seven of their children are members of the United Brethren church. He owns a tine farm of 170 acres on sections 32 and 33, his residence beinoon section 32.

Leverett Frosty son of Solomon and Adeline (Davis) Frost, was born in Cattaraugus County, X. Y., Aug. 24, 1840. He remained with his parents till manhood, and was reared by them to agricultural pursuits. He is a natural mechanic and understands the use of all kinds of tools. He now lives on the old homestead of his parents and has charge of the farm. He was married Oct. 12 1862, to Alzina Rathbun, a native of Scott Township, born Dec. 21, 1845, Her father was killed by a falling tree in her childhood. Her mother died in August, 1863. Her brothers and sisters were cared for by her till they grew to man and womanhood. Mr. and Mrs. Frost have had three children - Ethel died in September, 1882, in Nebraska, aged twenty years. She was the wife -of J. H. Boor. Sonorah is the widow of Willis M. Wicoff, who died Feb. 11, 1885. Zeron lives with his parents. In politics Mr. Frost is a Republican.

Solomon Frost was born in Broome County, N. Y., Aug. 10 1818. His parents, Curtis and Cordelia (Bierce) Frost, moved to Oneida County, and thence to Cortland County in 1823 and there he lived with them till 1835 when they moved to Huron County, Ohio. He remained in New York and went to Cattaraugus County and learned the trades of a carpenter, millwright, tanner and currier, serving an apprenticeship at each. In 1843 he went to Huron County and worked at the carpenter and millwright trades till 1854 and in April of the latter year became identified with Steuben County, buying eighty acres of land on section 6, York Township, which has since been his home. He worked at his trade till 1870, three years of the time at Kendallville, and while there rented his farm to his sons. He was married in Cattaraugus County, N. Y., Oct. 24, 1838, to Adeline Davis, a native of Saratoga County, N. Y., born April 13, 1818. To them have been born three children - Lydia, widow of William J. Taylor, of Fremont Township; Leverett, on the homestead; and Jerome B., of Hillsdale County, Mich. Jerome enlisted in the defense of the Union in February, 1863, in Company I, One Hundred and Twentyninth Indiana Infantry, and participated in ten engagement'f'. He reached home Sept. 25, 1865, having done valiant service for his country. His health was impaired and he has never been as robust as before his enlistment. Mr. Frost in politics is a Republican. He has always been a strong temperance man never even using tobacco, and has been a member of the Washingtonian Society over fifty years.

William S. Gilbert, one of the enterprising, practical citizens of York Township, resides on section 31. His home farm contains 155 acres and he also owns sixty -four acres on section 1, Otsego Township. He was born in Portage County, Ohio, Sept. 22, 1836, and was fifteen years of age when his parents, John and Mary Gilbert, came to this county. He was married Sept. 27, 1862, to Harriet Case, a native of this county, born Oct. 19, 1842, daughter of Firman and Permelia Case. They have given special attention to the education of their three children - Clarence, Dora and Hugh, the two eldest of whom are teachers and the youngest now in training for the same profession. In politics Mr. Gilbert is a Republican. He is a prominent member of the Masonic fraternity - Angola Lodge, No. 236; Angola Chapter, No. 5S; Angola Council, No. 27; and K. T, Commandery, No. 19, of Kendallville. Mrs. Gilbert and her daughter are members of the Disciples church.

Gnndrum, moved to Crawford Count}', Ohio, where they passed the remainder of their days. When sixteen years of age he left home and from that time depended on himself for a livelihood. He was married in Dauphin County, Pa., May 26, 1847, to Lovina Beam, a native of tliat county, born Feb. 29, 1828. A year after their marriage they moved to Crawford County, Ohio, and there he worked at the shoemaker's trade, which he had learned in his youth. In August, 1852, they moved to Steuben County and settled on section 18, York Township, on 100 acres purchased the year before. This farm Mr. Gundrum has improved and it is now one of the most valuable in the township. In addition to this he owns seventy acres a half a mile from his residence. Mr. and Mrs. Gundrum have had a family of six children, five sons and one daughter - Alonzo R., died when two years of age; William C. on the homestead; John H., of Williams County, Ohio; Theodore C. of Johnson County, Mo.; Mary Bell, wife of Cassius M. Thomas of this township, and Thomas Edgar, at home. Mr. Gundrum is politically a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Michael Gundrum was born in Dauphin County, Pa., May 22 1827, a son of John W. and Charlotte Gundrum, and brother of Larry Gundrum, of this township. He came to this township with his brother Larry, in August, 1852, and with him bought 180 acres of land, each paying $50. Mr. Gundrum cleared a small tract and erected a log cabin in which his brother Larry lived the following winter. Michael Gundrum returned to Crawford County, Ohio about the 1st of December, and the 22d of that month married Margaret Ann Stine, a native of Cumberland County, Pa., born April 17, 1833, a daugliter of Jacob and Mary Stine. Her father died in Pennsylvania when she was four years of age, and her mother afterward married Henry Musser and came to Steuben County in 1853, locating in Richland Township. The sprino- after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Michael Gundrum, with no capital but strong hands and a determination to succeed, coupled with high hopes of the future which have mainly been realized, began life in this township. The rude cabin has given way to one of the tinest residences of York Township, the eighty acres of ibrest land to cultivated fields, and toil to comparative ease. Mr. and Mrs. Gundrum have three children - Mary Charlotte, wife of Samuel Sailor, of Fremont Township; Sarah Ellen, wife of Jacob Bailey, of Fremont Township; Alonzo, of York Township. In politics

Mr. Giindram is a Republican. lu relic^ious faith lie and his wife are Lutherans. Mr. and Mrs. Gundrum have by toil and frugality'made a good home where they live, enjoying the respect of all who know them.

William H. Hall was born in Delaware County, Ohio, Oct. 22, 1824, a son of William and Polly Hall, natives of Hartford County, Conn. They were married in Ohio, where the latter died in Delaware County. The father died in Hillsdale County, Mich., having settled there in 1858. Oar subject was reared on a farm in his native county, and in 1850 came to this township and bought a farm of 110 acres in section 4 where he remained some years. He then sold that property and purchased the home he now occupies in the same section. He has a fine farm of 104 acres, most of which is under cultivation. He was married Oct. 4, 1848, to Nancy, daughter of Dr. D. P. and Elizabeth Hathaway. They have one daughter, Elizabeth, who was born April 24, 1856, and was married May 10, 1877, to William W. Uhl, who was born in Holmes County, Ohio, Aug. 28, 1850. They reside with Mr. and Mrs. Hall, Mr. Uhl owning a farm of ninety-seven acres adjoining the farm of Mr. Hall. He and his family are members of the Methodist church, and are much respected by all who know them. Mr. Hall is a member of Fremont Lodge, No. 248, A. F. & A. M., and in politics he is a Democrat.

Johi Headley was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, Sept. 9, 1828, a son of Reuben and Louisa Headley, the former a native of New Jersey and the latter of Virginia. In 1849 the family came to this township and settled on section 16, where the father died in 1860 aged sixty-six years. The mother lives with her daughter, Mrs. Hannah Cross, of Pleasant Lake. Twelve children came with them to this county, eleven of whom are living - John, Mrs. Cross, Mrs. Nancy Williamson, Mrs. Mary Gilbert and Wheeling live in this county; Joseph and Reuben, in Missouri; Mrs. Sarah Jane Fox, in Kansas; Mrs. Emma Myers and Mrs. Louisa Phillips, in St. Joseph County, Ind.; and Charles, in Williams County, Ohio. In 1849 John Headley bought thirty-six acres of land on section 16, and deeded it to his mother. In 1851 he bought for himself forty acres on the same section, and commenced making a home, at the same time helping to improve the home of his parents. He was married Nov. 9, 1853, to Susan Hubbell, who was born in the State of New York, July 13, 1833. To them were born five children, three of whom are living - Edwin E., Edgar, and

Minard U. J. Gary J. died at the age of six years, and Mordant died in infancy. They also adopted a daughter - Kettie. Mrs. Headley died April 11, 1882. June 21, 1883, he married Harriet Hood, who was born in DeKalb County, Ind., March 23, 1860. Mr. Headley, by industry, frugality and good management, assisted by a most estimable wife, has accumulated a good property. He lias added to his first purchase till he now owns 280 acres of finely improved land. His present fine residence bears no resemblance to the home of his newly wedded life. He makes a specialty of stock-raising and has some of the finest animals in the township. In politics he is a Republican. He is one of York's best citizens and has held several offices of trust and responsibility; among others has served as Road Supervisor twenty-one years.

Charles Herriry and his wife have lived in York Township since Aug. 17, 1853, locating at that time on a tract of heavily timbered land on section 7. This land he has cleared and now owns seventythree acres of the best land in the township. He was born in Carroll County, Ohio, Oct. 26, 1825, a son of Isaac and Delilah Hemry. His mother died when he was eighteen months old, and his father afterward married Nancy McCollough. In 1832 they moved to Crawford County, Ohio, and there he was reared and educated. His father died Aug. 11, 1868, aged eighty-four years, and his widow in August, 1879, aged ninety-one years. Isaac Hemry was a Captain of an Ohio militia company in Harrison County and was ordered out in the war of 1812, but never saw active service. Charles Hemry was married Oct. 4, 1849, to Rebecca Jane Handley, a native of Crawford County, Ohio, born March 2, 1832, daughter of William and Jane Handley. Her parents died on the old homestead in Sandusky Township, her father in 1843, and her mother Oct. 3, 1874, aged seventy-five years. One year after his marriage Mr. Hemry moved to Hicksville Township, Defiance Co., Ohio, and three years later to Steuben County, and settled where he has since lived. Mr. and Mrs. Hemry have never had any children, but reared and educated Lydia G. Stallman, caring for her till her marriage, when in her eighteenth year, to George Hemry, a nephew of Mr. Hemry. In his earl)' life Mr. Hemry was a "Whig, but since its organization has affiliated with the Republican party. He and his wife are members of the United Brethren church.

County, and there tlie mother died within a year, aged fifty-five years. When she was twelve years of age she was bitten by a rabid dog, but no serious results were manifested till about two years alter the birth of Royal B., after a period of thirty-three years had elapsed, when she was attacked with all the symptoms of hydrophobia. Her life was prolonged, but in a sad condition, her limbs being covered with sores for ten years. The father subsequently married again and died in Cattaraugus County, N. Y., in 1836, aged seventy years. Royal B. Hix remained with his father till manhood. June 13, 1838, he was married to Martha Braman, a native of Ontario County, N. Y., born March 3, 1812. The following fall he moved to Steuben County and settled on section 9, York Township, where they have since lived. This land they have improved and now have 121 acres finely improved, and a commodious house and farm buildings. They have been industrious and frugal, and have accumulated a competence f>r their declining years. Their upright lives and friendl}^ dealings with their neighbors has won them many friends. They are members of the Baptist church and earnest, devoted Christians. In politics Mr. Hix is a Republican. They have four children - William, of Lenawee County, Mich.; Marvin, on the homestead; Lyman, of Nebraska, and Luella, wife of Prof. Abram Stevens, of Angola.

George W. Johnson and his wife are among the few of the old pioneers who brought their families to the township prior to 1840. He was born in Franklin County, Vt,, Aug. 15, 1809. When he was eight years of age his parents, Timothy and Betsey (Cochrin) Johnson, moved to Orleans County, N. Y., where his father died about 1824. There he grew to manhood and married Edexey Woolcott, who was born in Erie County, N. Y., November, 1809. In 1838 they came to Steuben County, bringing with them four children - Mrs. Sjphia Foster; Joanna, died at the age of twentyone years; Mrs. Harriet Burke and Andrew, deceased. Two children were born in this township - Riley, who lives on a part of his father's honiestead, and George, who died after the close of the war, having been a s-oldier in the defense of his country. Mr. Johnson located on section 9, which was at that time an unbroken forest, and now, through his industry, is one of the finest farms in the township. His 155 acres are all under a state of cultivation, and his rude log-cabin has given place to a fine residence, pleasantly located.

27, 1830, a son of David and Sarah Knisely. He was reared in his native county, and when twenty-one years of a^e left home and came to Steuben County and settled on 106 acres of land on section

6, York Township, which his father entered when the land first came into market. He has been industrious and frugal and has added to his land till he now owns 360 acres. His wife owns her father's old homestead of eighty acres. Their residence and other farm buildings are large and comfortable, and they have one of the pleasantest homes in the county. Mr. Knisely was married May 22, 1853, to Emma S. Johnson, who was born in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, May 22, 1836, daughter of Silas and Aseneth Johnson. Her mother died Oct. 9, 1849, in the forty-ninth year of her age. In the fall of 1852 she came to this township with her father and was his housekeeper till the following spring, when he married Mrs. Betsey Johnson, widow of Cutler Johnson. He located on section

7, where he died in 1866, and his widow five years later. Mrs. Knisely has one sister and two half sisters living; the former is Mrs, Lucretia Smart, of White Pigeon, Mich., and the latter Mrs. Betsey Bevington, of Nebraska, and Mrs. Caroline Ward, of Portage County, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Knisely have had five children, three of whom are living - Letta E., wife of George Osfall ; Frankie T. and Nellie C. Marion and Mary died in infancy. In politics Mr. Knisely is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Knisely's father died in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, in the fall of 1877, aged eightyseven years. His widow is living in that county with a daughter, Mrs. Sarah Everett.

William R. Mitchell was born in Washington County, Pa., Aug. 27, 1816. Wlien he was a child his parents, John and Isabel Mitchell, moved to Jeflerson County, Ohio., and from there to Hagerstown, Carroll County, and thence, in 1826, to Tuscarawas County, where his father died in 1862 and his mother in 1863. He was reared in the latter county, and was there married, Oct. 5, 1850, to Sabilla Knisely, who was born June 5, 1827. In the spring of 1853 they became identified with Steuben County, settling on their present home April 27. His farm on section 20 contains 160 acres of land. At that time but a few acres had been cleared and a rude log cabin built. The present finely-improved farm and the large commodious residence are the evidences of industry and frugality. To Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell have been born six children - Lucetta, widow of R. W. Gordon, who died Nov.

12, 1882; Emma Belle, first wife of R. W. Gordon, died in October, 1879, leaving one child, Lulu Belle, who is cared for by her grandparents ; Morgia died Dec. 11, 1881, of consumption; William W. married Delia Chad wick, and lives in York Township; Edward married Mary E. Rose, and lives in Marion, Kas. ; Thomas O. lives in Oakland, CaL Mr. Mitchell is one of the thorough farmers of the township, and has done his full share in assisting in the development of the county. He is a member of Angola Lodge, No. 236, F. & A. M., and makes the teachings ol that order the rules of his life.

John F. Musser was born in Cumberland County, Pa., JMov. 9, 1843, and came to Steuben County when a child with his parents, Henrv and Mary Musser. He remained at home till after the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, and Aug. 15, 1862, enlisted in Company B, One Hundredth Indiana Infantry. He participated in the siege of Vicksburg and the battles preceding that siege; the battles of Jackson, Chattanooga, Mission Ridge, Atlanta campaign, Jonesboro, Lovejoy's Station; was with Sher- 4nan through the Carolinas, and participated in the grand review at Washington, May 22, 1865. He was wounded at Mission Ridge. He was discharged June 28, 1865, and returned to Steuben County. He was married Sept. 28, 1868, to Harriet Snyder, a native of Ohio, daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Snyder, who settled in Richland Township in 1858, where the father died and the mother still lives. Mr. and Mrs. Musser have three children- Cora E., Lee H. and Ray H. Mr. Musser is a member of Mt. Pleasant Lodge, No. 239, I. O. O. F.. of which he has been Recording Secretary eight years. In 1880 he was elected Justice of the Peace and filled the oflice acceptably four years, when he declined re-election. In politics he is a Republican. He is an active, enterprising citizen, giving his support to all projects of public benefit.

Augustus C. Phillips was born in Athens County, Ohio, Feb. 23, 1834, a son of Job and Louisa Ann Phillips, who moved to Hancock County, Ohio, in September, 1835, and subsequently to Hardin County, where the father died in 1879, aged seventy-two years, and the mother still lives. Augustus C. was reared in Hancock County and there married, Nov. 11, 1858, Tabitha White, a native of that county, born April 7, 1843, daughter of George and Isabel White, both deceased, the mother dying in 1861 and the father in 1847. To Mr. and Mrs. Phillips have been born ten children, six of whom are living - Leander B. married Sarah Meeks, and lives in Hillsdale County, Mich.; Louretta, wife of Floyd Phillips, of the same county; AbrahJira L., Lucinda, Adolphus and Flora D. Mr. Phillips has always followed agricultural pursuits. He lived in Ohio till the fall of 1869 and then moved to Steuben County and bought eighty acres of land on section 20, York Township. All the improvements, save the clearing of a few acres, have been made by him. He has a pleasant residence and good farm buildings, and sixty acres under cultivation.

John W. Porter was born in Wood County, Ohio, March 8, 1854, a son of Joseph and Huldah Porter. He came to this county with his parents, and after the death of his mother, in 1868, made his home with his brother Samuel. He learned the mason's and plasterer's trades of his brother, and has worked at them since 1874. He was married Oct. 5, 1879, to Josephine Wood, a native of Franklin Township, De Kalb County, Ind., born March 16, 1856, a daughter of John K. and Irene Wood. To them have been born three children - Jay, Ella May and Irene. Mr. and Mrs. Porter are among the most prominent young people of Metz. He is an industrious young man and one of the best mechanics of the township.

Samuel D. Porter was born in Medina County, Ohio, April 16, 1843, son of Joseph and Huldah Porter. When lie was about six years of age his parents moved to Ashland County, Ohio, and four years later to Wo^d County, where he was reared, and when fifteen years of age began to work at the mason's trade, which he followed till January, 1862, when he enlisted m Cjmpmy G, Sixty-eighth Ohio Infantry. His first battle was Fort Donelson and the next Pittsburg Landing. After the last battle he was taken sick with the measles and not recovering was discharged at St. Louis, Mo., and returned home, his parents at that time living in Williams County. Early in the year 1861 he again off'ered his services to his country, but was rejected. May 1, 1864, he was accepted as a member of the One Hundred and Forty-second Ohio National Guards, for 100 days' service, and sent to the Army ot the Potomac; was discharged the latter part of September. In 1868 the family moved to Steuben County and settled in Richland Township, where the mother died in December, 1869, in her fiftyfifth year. His father is living near Metz with a second wife, Mrs. Amanda Bridge. Four brothers of our subject are living - t^iley, ried to Mary Judd Nov. 26, 1863. She was born in Monroe Count}', N. Y,, Oct. 6, ISil. When she was two years of age her parents, Elihu and Eliza Ann Judd, moved to Ashland County, Ohio, and later to Williams County. In September, 1873, they came to Steuben County, Ind., where the mother died in 1874, aged liftjMnne years. The father still makes his home with Mrs. Porter. In March, 1868, Mr. Porter moved to Steuben County and settled near the center of Richland Township, and in the fall of 1871 moved to Mctz, and in the fall of 1873 bought a farm in Otsego Township. In February, 1882, he sold his farm and returned to Metz and engaged in the hardware business with his brother James till February, 1884, when he sold his interest in the stock. Since the spring of 1885 he has been engaged in the manufacture of drainage tile and brick. In April, 1882, Mr. Porter was commissioned Postmaster at Metz. In politics he is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the United Brethren church. They have had five children - Lewis died at the age of fourteen years, in April, 1881* Silas, Sanford, Perry, and Olive are at home.

Calvin Powers, deceased, was one of Steuben's first settlers and as a consequence had to endure the many privations so inseparable from the life of a pioneer. He was born in Farmington, Ontario Co., N. Y. , March, 1808, and was the youngest in a family of five children. His parents were natives of Massachusetts, where thev were married in January, 1799, and moved to Oneida, N. Y., and in 1805 to Ontario County, where the father died live months after the birth of our subject. Calvin's mother was again married September, 1811, to George Jenks, by whom she had three children - Laura, Joanna and George, her husband dying in November, 1830- Here in Ontario Calvin grew to manhood, receiving a fair education He was married in Palmyra, N. Y., September, 1835, to Emeline Corey, daughter of Robert and Elizabeth Corey, natives of New York. Mrs. Powers was born in Cazenovia, N. Y., June, 1817. In the spring of 1836 he with his brother Clark came to Steuben County, Ind., and that summer entered a large tract of land in York Township. They returned to New York, where Calvin remained until the early part of 1837 when he with his brothers Stephen and Winn started overland with their families tor Steuben County. Stephen and Winn arrived at the cabin in July, 1837, but Calvin was detained on the road in Ohio by the sickness of his wife and did not arrive until the latter part of the month. He settled in the southwest part of the township. He remained where he first settled but a short, time, moving to the southeast quarter of section 29, where the most of his life was spent. Bj his marriage were born the following children - Alonzo, born August, 1836; Lorenzo, born October, 1838, died December, 1839; Harriet, born September, 1840, is the wife of Hon. E. O. Rose, of Grand Rapids, Mich.; Elizabeth, born January, 1842, and George, born September, 1844. Mrs. Powers died September, 1848. Mr. Powers was again married, April, 1851, at Pleasant Lake, Ind., to Lucy A. Gilbert who was born in Lorain County, Ohio, July, 1829. To them were born two children - Emma R., July, 1852, now wife of Prof. H. H. Keep, of Pleasant Lake, and Frank M., April, 1860. In April, 1877, Mr. Powers moved to Angola where he died January, 1878, and was buried in the Powers Cemetery. The greater part of his life was spent in the vicinity of his final resting place. He was prominently identified with the growth and development of Steuben County. His energy and industry, of which he possessed a large share, contributed not only to his own prosperity but to the prosperity and advancement of the neighborhood in which he lived and to the county as well. He with his brother Winn were the leading spirits that gave to the township the Free Church of which all may justly feel proud. In politics he was a firm Democrat; was County Commissioner from 1844 till 1847, and again from 1856 till 1859. He was a man of large public spirit, prudent and frugal, yet benevolent, ever ready to help the needy and support charitable enterprises. In society he was eminently companionable; in conversation thoughtful and witty. Few persons at the close of life left a larger circle of friends than he. In religion, though connected with no church, he openly professed his faith in the justice and mercy of God. A few hours before his death he said, "I am just waiting for the last link to be broken and I shall be free from pain." Thus passed away a grand and noble man, amid tears of genuine sorrow and respect. He was a member of the Masonic fraternity and an advocate of temperance, which he exemplified by his life, and we can look back upon a life rich in qualities, fit to be remembered and imitated.

Calvin P. Powers was born in Allegany County, N. Y., Jan. 19, 1834, a son of Winn and Betsey Powers. He remained with his parents until his marriage and from that time on the old homestead, on sections 29 and 30. He owns a fine farm of 320 acres, his residence being on section 30. He was married Jan. 1, 1860, to Jane Clark, a native of Williams County, Ohio, born Sept. 23, 1840, a daughter of H. N. and Eliza (Bailey) Clark, natives of Yermont, who settled in Williams County in December, 1836, where the mother died when Mrs. Powers was a child, and the father in October, 1859, in the sixtieth year of his age. Their children are all living - Mrs. Jerusha Teals, Joshua D., George J., Mrs. Sarah Huggett, Mrs. Julia Woodworth and Mrs. Jane Powers. Mr. and Mrs. Powers have four children - Lola, wife of Frank Brooks; Mora, Lila and Milo. Mr. Powers is one of the prominent citizens of York Township, a man of sterling integrity, a worthy descendant of a worthy name. In politics he is a Democrat He is not a believer in dogmas or creeds, but a lover of the great essentials of Christianity; a believer in the brotherhood of man and the fatherhood of God. Mrs. Powers is a liberal-minded, cultured lady, and is loved for her pleasant home ways and kind, neighborly ministrations.

Hon. Clark Powers, deceased, was born in Oneida County. N. Y., December, 1808, being the third in a family of five children, and the son of Josiah and Hannah Powers, of Granville, Mass. His youth was passed in Ontario where his father died when he was only five years old. After his father's death Clark found a home in that county with a good family who gave him a fair education, which he improved after coming of age. July 23, 1833, Wm. L. Marcy, Governor of the State of N. Y., appointed him Captain in the Eleventh Regiment of Infantry of the Twenty-fourth Brigade of that State. After faithfully performing the duties of that office for three years, at his own request he was, on the 17th of November, 1836, honorably discharged. In the spring of 1836 he and his brother Calvin came to Steuben County, Ind., and on the 18th of July of that year they entered a large tract of land in York Township. They then returned to New York and in the spring of 1837 Clark again came to Indiana. In that year he built a log cabin immediately north of where the maple grove now stands, in the southwest corner of section 29, for the occupation of his brothers and their families, he at that ame being a single man. After they arrived his brother Winn and family lived in the cabin during the winter of 1837-'38, Clark making his home with them. During these years Clark made several trips on horseback from the city of Detroit, Mich., to this county, carrying money in saddlebags with which to make payments for his land, and to the exposure to cold and rain in these trips through the then pathless and dense

Hi6Tory Of Steuben County

Powers, was born in this township, July 27, 1842. He vvas reared and educated in his native place, living under the parental roof until he was twenty-one years of age. Sept. 3, 1864, he was married to Lydia Ann, daughter of Abram and Mary Hemry, who settled in this township in 1845, coming from Crawford County, Ohio. Both are now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Powers have two children - Henry, born May 4. 1866, and Mary Luella, born Dec. 6, 1873. Mr. Powers has a farm of 111 acres on section 29, where he has resided since his marriage. In politics he affiliates with the Democratic party.

J . Clark Powers^ the oldest living representative of the Powers family in York Township, is a son of Stephen A. and Mary Ann Powers. He was born in Allegany County, N. Y., Oct. 18, 1825, and was in the twelfth year of his age when his parents settled in this county and has since been identified with and a resident of York Township. The homestead (original) was in what is now Scott Township. Mr. Powers received his education in his early days from his father, who was an educated, cultured man, and a teacher forty-two winters, including the schools taught in this county. J. Clark Powers was also a teacher; commencing in his nineteenth year he taught several terms in this State, Ohio, and Michigan before his marriage, and afterward taught in the winter, attending to the cultivation of his farm in the summer. He is a finely educated gentleman, thanks to the teachings of his father and his own studious habits. He is one of York's best citizens, alive to all that pertains to the advancement of the interest of his township, socially and materially. He is a reliable man and has often been trusted with the settlement of estates and the guardianship of children, his honorable life and well-known integrity peculiarly fitting him for such trusts. After his marriage he settled on the farm where he now lives where he owns eighty acres of valuable land. He was married May 18, 1854, to Rozell Campbell, a native of Tecumseh, Lenawee Co., Mich., daughter of George and Eliza Campbell, her father a native of Vermont and her mother of Watertown, K Y. They settled in Michigan in 1829, the mother dying in Hillsdale County, that State, in 1865, and the father in Toledo, Ohio, in 1877. Mrs. Powers is an educated lady, genial, and hospitable, enjoying this life and spreading sunshine along everybody's pathway with whom she is associated. Before her marriage she was a school-teacher, an occupation to which by nature and education she was well adapted. Mr. and Mrs. Powers

Myron Powers^ son of Winn and Betsey (lleev^es) Powers, was born in Allegany County, N. Y., Aug. 19, 1826, and came to York Township with his parents July 8, 1837. He has witnessed the change of Steuben County from a wild, heavily timbered tract of land, inhabited by Indians, to its present state of advanced cultivation, thrifty farms and prosperous villages, and has assisted materially in producing this change. He remained with his parents till manhood, helping to clear and improve the farm. He was married Dec. 7, 1851, to Eliza Dillingham, a native of Ontario County, N. Y., born May 22, 1831, daughter of Jeremiah and Nancy (Thayer) Dillingham, who moved to Lenawee County, Mich., in the fall of 1836, and in February, 1838, settled in York Township, Steuhen Co., Ind. Her father was born Sept. 14, 1786, and died Aug. 8, 1858. Her mother was born Dec. 31, 1791, and died Sept. 28, 1883. After the death of her husband she made her home with her daughter, Mrs. Powers. To Mr. and Mrs. Powers have been born four children, but two of whom are living - Bettie, wife of John H. Dunham, and Elmo, born in 1872. Mr. Dunham resides on and has charge of the homestead of Mr, Powers. Their eldest child, Esky E., died Feb. 3, 1854, aged ten months and eleven days; Erwin died Sept. 7, 1859, aged three years three months and sixteen days. Mr. Powers commenced married life on the farm where he has since lived, on section 30, York Township. He owns 160 acres of valuable land all well improved. His residence and farm buildings are large and commodious, and all in good repair. He is one of the solid, substantial citizens of the township, of good record and established reputation, honorable, energetic and perfectly reliable in all his business transactions. In politics he is a Democrat, in religion a believer in the final restoration of all mankind. He has been trusted with different positions of responsibility and has served several terms as Township Trustee.

Stephen J.. Powers^ deceased. - Among the pioneer families of Steuben County few have done more toward the growth and development than the Powers family. They came of pure Celtic stock the great-grandfather of the four brothers who settled in this county being Arad Powers, a native of Ireland, who married Lydia Bruce, a native of Scotland (of the noted family of Bruces so well known in history) and emigrated to the United

States before the Revolutionary war, settling in Massachusetts. Oliver Powers was born in Massachusetts of this marriage, where he grew to manhood and married Lydia Winn, also a native of that State. To them were born the following children - Jacob, Josiah, Oliver, Lydia, Lucj, Dolly and Betsy. Oliver Powers served through the Revolutionary war under Washington, and shortly after he moved with his family to Oneida County, N. Y., and afterward to Ontario County, of the same State, where he and his wife died. Josiah was the second in the family and was born in Massachusetts in 1772. He married Hannah Church in 1799. She was the daughter of Josiah and Hannah Church, natives of Massachusetts, and was born in January, 1776. The year of their marriage they moved to Oneida County, N. Y., and in 1805 removed to Ontario County of the same State, where Josiah died August, 1808, leaving his wife with five small children, as follows - Stephen, born January, 1800; Winn, December, 1801; Clark, December, 1803; Josiah, February, 1806, and Calvin, March, 1808. The four eldest she " put out" with friends to care for, and with her babe Calvin began to earn her own living. At that time Ontario County was almost a wilderness and the Powers family were among its pioneers. The boys grew to manhood in that county and began life with nothing but their own brave hearts and willing hands to depend on, to win the battle. Their mother was again married in September, 1811, to George Jenks, a native of Massachusetts, by whom she had three children - Laura, Joan and George. Her husband died November, 1820, and about 1847 she moved with her son, George Jenks, to SteubenCounty,Ind., where she died December, 1857, in her eighty -second year. Stephen A. was the eldest in the family and was born in Oneida County, N. Y,, Jan. 2, 1800, and, as has been already stated, he "went out" to live after the death of his father, but his master dying before Stephen was grown he was thrown on his own resources, and by his individual, unaided efforts, he acquired a first-class English education. In his boyhood days he went to learn the blacksmith's trade, but his mind running in another channel he abandoned it and learned surveying and navigation. He was married in Allegany County, N. Y., January, 1825, to Mary Ann Campbell, daughter of George and Elizabeth Campbell, natives of Herkimer County, N. Y., of Scotch, English and German origin. Mrs. Powers was born in Herkimer County, K Y., July, 1808. Her father died one month before her birth and her mother was afterej M ^ ward married to Eber Newton, and moved to Ontario County, N. T., and subsequently to Allegany County, where they both died and where Mrs. Powers spent her youth. By her marriage she had the following children - Clark, born October, 1825; Andrew, September, 1827 (died in the army at Vicksburg, June, 1863); Newton, February, 1830 (died in 1837); Hannah E., March, 1833 (died 1839); Dolly Jane, April, 1835; Volney, March, 1838 (was a soldier in the late war); Ellen, Jan. 8, 1841; Oliver, February, 1843 (died in the array at Bowling Green, January, 1863), and Lydia Bruce, August, 1845. After his marriage Stephen Powers settled in Allegany County, N. Y., where he lived twejve years, when he started for Indiana with an ox team, arriving in York Township, July, 1837. His brothers, Clark and Calvin, had been to the county in 1836 and entered land, and early in 1837 Clark came and built a cabin for the reception of his brother and their families, and in that cabin Stephen and family lived with the others for about two months, when he moved to a cabin on section 26, Scott Township, two miles west of the Powers school-house, and there settled in the woods with Indians as their neighbors, with whom they lived harmoniously. It is unnecessary to speak of the many privations and hardships which fell to their lot. Suffice it to say they met and overcame all obstacles; were not made of that stuff which falters. When the war broke out Stephen A. Powers was in his sixty-second year, and his hair was white with age, but his heart was strong, young and patriotic. He colored his hair black so as to pass muster when he presented himself as a volunteer for examination. When the examining surgeon asked him how old he was, he replied, " I am old enough to help put down the rebellion." Noble Nvords that will live while time lasts. He served eleven months when he was discharged for disabilities which culminated in his death. After returning from the army he settled in Williams Count}', Ohio, and in 1871 went to Antrim County, Mich., and took a soldier's claim. His foresight was wonderful, as he got his land forty acres wide and one mile long through which a railroad was then surveyed and afterward built which increased the value of his land. Here he died October, 1872, and his widow remained on the farm and did what not many women would have been capable of doing in clearing it up and carrying out the necessary regulations to retain the land. For all this she deserves just credit, and her energy and force of character was extraordinary. Her husband was buried in Michigan; five years later she had his body brought to this county and buried in the Powers Cemetery, and marking his last resting place, she put a line monument, showing, though dead, he is not forgotten. Stephen A. Powers was in many ways a remarkable man. He followed teaching and surveying as his principal occupation; was County Surveyor for many years, County Commissioner in 1839-'40, and was well known all over the county. He was a close student, a good teacher, having taught for forty-two winters. He had a wonderful memory; was a lover of knowledge and endowed with clear logical reasoning faculties; was a devoted Mason most of his life and a member of the I. O. O. F. He was a kind father and husband, courteous and polite toward his fellow-men, and believed that true religion consisted in following the Golden Rule. Mrs. Mary Ann Powers, his wife, died in 1883, in Branch County, Mich., at the residence of her daughter, Lydia Bruce Hamer. Her remains were interred ill the Powers Cemetery by the side of her husband.

Winji Powers, deceased. - This old and respected citizen was the second in the family, and born at Fort Stanwix (now the city of Home), Oneida Co., N. Y., ^December, 1801. His youth was passed under the roof of a stranger, where he was placed by his mother after his father's death. Having received a fair education, as soon as he arrived at manhood he began teaching school, teaching one term of three months in each year for three years. The rest of the time he worked at farming, and judiciously managed to save enough to give him a start in life. This was in Ontario County, N. Y., whither his parents had moved when Winn was about three years old, and where his father died in 1808. He was married in Ontario County, N. Y., April, 1825, to Betsy Reeves, the daughter of John and Elizabeth Reeves, natives of New Jersey, where Mrs. Powers was born May, 1801. A few days after their marriage the young couple moved to Allegany County, N. Y., and settled on a wild farm, on which they lived twelve years, clearing sixty acres during that time. His wife before her marriage had by industry and economy saved enough to set up housekeeping in a primitive manner, and in a log cabin in Allegany they began to fight the battle of life, and well did they succeed About 1836 they concluded it was their duty to provide homes for their children. With this purpose in view they sold their little home and started overland for Indiana, where his brothers Clark and Calvin had come and entered land in the spring of 1836. After a long and tedious journey he and his family, with his brother Stephen and family, arrived at the cabin built by Clark on section 30, York Townsliip, Steuben Co. , July, 1837, where Winn and family lived through the winter of 1837-'38. In January of the latter year he bought 120 acres of land on section 29, York Township, and the following summer built a log cabin in the woods, and in this humble manner began his new life in the then distant West. By his marriage the following children were born to him - Myron, August, 1826; Hannah, October, 1828; Edwin, February, 1831; Calvin P., January, 1834; Mowry, December, 1836 (deceased); Ann E., January, 1839, and George R, July, 1842. The purpose which brought Winn Powers and wife to Indiana they never deviated from. All their children now living are settled close to the old home. The Powers family believe in the universal salvation of mankind; politically, have always adhered to Democracy; and " Uncle Winn," as he was familiarly called, was a member of the Masonic Lodge about thiitv years. For nearly half a century Uncle Winn and wife walked side by side, but the dread messenger came and summoned his loving helpmate to her eternal rest on April 14, 1873, and on June 24, 1883, after an illness of a few days, he joined her in the better land. Beginning life at the foot of the ladder he had by his energy and industry accumulated a handsome property. He was always fond of the chase, and was happy when roaming the dense forest with no companion but his trusty rifle. In every public improvement the Powers family have stood shoulder to shoulder with the foremost, and no family of "Old Steuben " have done more than they to build up the county. Several years ago he set about soliciting subscriptions for building a church on land known as the Powers Cemetery, which his brother Clark had donated to the public many years before. He succeeded in this laudable undertaking, as the commodious 'Free Church" well attests, and beneath whose shadow he is sleeping his last sleep.

Minard F. Rose^ section 18, York Township, was born Dec. 9, 1841, a son of Jacob O. and Mary A. (Comstock) Rose. Jacob O. Rose was burn in Rensselaer County, N. Y., May 18, 1814, and when twenty-one years of age left his native county and located in Cuyahoga County, Ohio. His parents, Elias and Eva (Overrocker) Rose, were natives of New York, of Dutch descent. Jacob O. Rose was married to Mary A. Comstock April 12, 1837.

She was born July 3, 1817, a daughter of Stephen and Charlotte (Fitch) Comstock, natives of Connecticut, who moved to Ohio before their marriage, wliere tlie mother died in 1829. The father died in York Township Jan. 12, 1858, In 1845 Mr. and Mrs. Rose moved to Steuben County, Ind., and settled in York Township, and later moved to Big Rapids, Mich., where Mr. Rose died Oct 24, 1883. Mrs. Rose now makes her home with her son, Minard F. She owns a good farm of sixty acres on section 19. Their family consisted of three children - Elias O., of Grand Rapids, Mich.; Charlotte died in infancy, and Minard F. Minard F, Rose was four years of age when his parents moved to Steuben County, and here he was reared and educated, remaining with his parents till manhood. He was married Oct. 6, 1861, to Ann E. Powers, the second white child born in York Township, born Jan. 2 1839, daughter of Winn Powers. They have four children - Mary E, wife of E. E. Mitchell, of Marion, Kas.; Jay O., Willie E. and Irwin F. Ida died Oct. 2, 1874, aged two years. Mr. Rose owns a good farm of eighty acres, where he has lived since 1865. He is a thorough, practical farmer, and one of the representative agriculturists of his township.

Daniel P. Rummel was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, May 11, 1826, and came to this county in the fall of 1844 with his parents, Henry and Elizabeth Rummel. At the age of twenty years he was given his time by his father. Dec. 28, 1851, he married Clarinda Benjamin, daughter of David and Emily P. Benjamin. She was born April 23, 1832, in Cuyahoga County, Ohio. Her father died when she was a small child. Her mother later married Asa Gaskell. Mrs. Rummel died Dec. 20, 1877. Sept. 29, 1878, he married Sarah Wanee, a native of Columbiana County, Ohio, born May 1, 1839. He lived in Richland Township until March, 1873, and then became a resident of York. His occupation up to 1872 was that of a farmer. In 1874 he engaged in general merchandising at Metz, continuing there about nine years, then sold his stock to Norris & Co., and since that time has been out of active business. Mr. Rummel has been a prominent citizen wherever he has resided, and April, 1884, was elected Trustee of York Township. In November, 1884, he was elected County Commissioner of the middle district. Mr. Rummel is much respected for his upright, honorable life and for his active interest in all that pertains to public good. In politics he is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Disciples church.

History Of Steuben Countt

John Sattison was born in the State of Pennsylvania, March 6, 1819, a son of Adam and Betsey Sattison, who moved to Niagara County, N. Y., when he was a small child and later to Huron County, Ohio, where he grew to manhood and married, ISTov. 17, 1842, Maria Stotts, a native of Huron County, born March 3, 1826 a daughter of William and Sarah Stotts. Her father was killed by the falling of a burning trunk of a tree in 1830, and three years later her mother married Harrison Smith, and in 1849 came to this township, and later moved to Fremont Township, where the mother died in 1873 aged sixty-seven years. In 1851 Mr. Sattison moved to Steuben County and settled in York Township, on section 7, where he now owns 110 acres of valuable land, and in 1873 built one of the finest residences in the township, it being the first brick house in the township. They have been among the most industrious and frugal citizens' and now are rewarded by having a pleasant home and all the comforts of life with which to enjoy their old age. Their children are three in number, two born in Ohio and one in Steuben County - William, of Scott Township; Frederick, of Franklin Township, De Kalb County, and Adam of this township. All are married and have families. William enlisted in August, 1861, in Company A, Twenty-ninth Indiana Infantry, and served four years. Although but sixteen years of age when he enlisted he was one of the most gallant and courageous soldiers. In politics Mr. Sattison is a Republican. His first vote was cast in 1840 for General Harrison.

Oeorge A. Souder was born in Columbiana County, Ohio Sent 28, 1828, and when a small child removed with his parents William and Nancy (Stevens) Souder, to Crawford County, Ohio, where his mother died in 1841, aged forty years. His father died at the residence of a son-in-law, H. K. Barr, in 1876, aged seventy-seven years. The family consisted of four children - Amos and Mrs Almeda Barr, of Otsego Township; Alexander, in Iowa, and our subject, George A. Souder was married in Crawford County Ohio, July 13, 1856, to Mary Coberly, a native of that county born July 27, 1833. In February, 1858, they came to Steuben County and settled in Salem Township, buying eighty acres of land, upon which they lived till 1863, when they sold it and bought the farm of forty acres where they now live, on section 36, York Township. To them have been born four children but one of whom is living - Nellie, who was born July 21, 1874. Maggie died at the age of seventeen years and Paul and Clement in infancy. Mr. Souder is a valued and respected citizen, honorable and upright, making and keeping his word in business transactions as good as his bond.

Washington L. Weiss was born in Licking County, Ohio, Nov. 28, 1837. His father, Jacob A. Weiss, was born in Lancaster County, Pa., in 1797, and was married in his native State to Lydia Stout. In their early married life they moved to Licking County, Ohio, and in October, 1852, to Steuben County, Ind., living the first winter in Fremont Township, and the following spring bought 160 acres of land on section 12, York Township. He sold 100 acres to members of his family, retaining the rest for his homestead, where he died in 1861. His widow died June 13, 1854, aged forty-seven years. Their children numbered thirteen - William, Christian, Mrs. Eliza Ann Boyd, Mrs. Mary Barnes, Stephen, Mrs. Susan Barnes, Washington L., Joseph, Mrs. Lydia Baldwin, Mrs. Mi. nerva Gasser, Mrs. Ellen Carpenter, Mrs. Priscilla A. Johnson and Andrew. After the death of the father, Washington L. took charge of the farm and cared for the younger children till they were married and settled for themselves. He was married Jan. 25, 1866, to Sarah L. Folck,a native of Morrow County, Ohio, born Sept. 25, 1844^ daughter of John K. and Margaret Folck. Four children have been born to them, three of whom are living - Jessie and Jennie (twins), born Christmas day, 1867, and Fred, born May 14, 1871. Their eldest, Edna, died in her fifth year. Mr. Weiss lives on his father's homestead, on section 12, and has added to it till he now owns 160 acres. He is one of the most thorough and thrifty farmers of the township and is an esteemed and popular citizen. In politics he is a Greenbacker. In religious faith he is liberal.

William Wicoff was born in Wayne County, Ohio, July 25, 1830. In 1844 his parents, John and Margaret Wicoff, moved to Willaims County, Ohio, and from there to Berrien, Mich., in 1864, where his mother died Nov. 21, 1865, aged sixty years. His father is an active man eighty years of age and is a member of his family. In 1854 William Wicoff came to Steuben County, Ind., and worked as a farm hand for Martin Eldridge till January, 1856^ when he was married to his employer's daughter, Armelia, who was born in New York State, Sept. 30, 1S38, and was brought to Steuben County by her parents when three years of age. Mr. Eldridge entered 160 acres of land from the Government in 1838 and after locating on it improved it rapidly. After his marriage Mr. Wicoff worked the farm on shares and finally bought it, and to the 160 acres has added till he now owns 293 acres, the most of it under cultivation. In September, 1864, Mr. Eldridge moved to Angola, where he died in August, 1870, aged fifty-seven years. His widow survives and lives with her daughter, Mrs. Anna Fitch, of Angola. To Mr. and Mrs. Wicoffhave been born three children - Willis M.^ Peter B. and Lovina. Willis died Feb. 11, 1885, aged nearly twenty-eight years. He was married in 1880 to Sonora Frost. In politics Mr. Wicoff is an uncompromising Republican. Although not an office seeker, he has been elected to several positions of trust in both county and township. In October, 1874, he was elected Sheriff, and re-elected in 1876. He has served three terras as Trustee of York Township. Sept. 30, 1869, he fell into a horsepower attachment of a threshing machine and lost his right leg. He has always been a promineut citizen of the county and has been identified with all its interests.