Defiance Township (part 2 of 11)

Thel'jvans family were among the early settlers of Kentucky. Samuel Evans (father of Dr. John), removed to Ohio frt)m Bourbon County, Ky., when the laU.er was al)out seventeen years old. William Taylor (father of I'llizabeth, who married Dr. Evans), the first settler between the Ohio River and Chillicothe, moved from Penns^dvania to Kentucky when his daughter Elizabeth was about three months old, and from Kentucky to near Bainbridge, Boss County, Ohio, when she was six or seven years of age. Dr. Evans and family (now consisting of his wife and two daughters) removed from A\'ashington, Fayette County, to Defiance, in February, 1S2;3. They started in a lai'go double sleigh, but the snow failing, they were compelled to abandon their sleigh and resort to wagons. The family reached Judge Nathan Shirley's, on the Auglaize Biver, one mile above Defiance, on the last day of February. Their first location was at Camp No. 3, five miles below Defiance on the north side of the Maumee in a double-log cabin, and here Samuel Cary Evans, their first son, was born April 10, 18'23. Dui'ing the summer, the Doctor built a frame house at Defiance, into which he removed his family in the month of November of that year. He made the first brick and the first lime that was manufactured in Defiance, a part of which was used in the construction of his own house and the proceeds of the sale of the surplus lime and brick netted an amount that paid the entire cost of his house. In the same year, Foreman Evans, his brother, , also removed to Defiance. The late Judge Pierce Evans (cousin' of Dr. John) removed to the h(>ad of the rapids of the Jlaumee and resided there during the year- IS'2'J and in 1S23, and theu removed to the farm below Defiance now occupied by his son, Binaldo Evans. When Dr. Evans reached Defiance, there were no physicians on the river nearer than Fort A\'ayne above, and Maumee City below, and his professional visits often extended to the first named place, to St. Marys, on the St. Marys, and to the head of the Maumee rapids. There being no good roads, no bridges over the streams and facilities for ferriage were at points remote from each other, it is difficult to convey to the mind of the medical practitioner of this day an adequate view of the formidable and often dangerous obstacles that Dr. Evans was compelled to encounter in the discharge of his professional duties. The first relief from this exhausting toil was afforded by the arrival at Defiance of Dr. Jonas Colby, in 1822. In IS24, he purchased the stock of goods of Hunt & Forsyth, of Maumee City, which were brought up on pirogu(!s. This was the first store of considerable importsnco that contained goods adapted to the wants of the white settlers, although staple Indian goods (except whisky) were included in his general stock. When the family removed to Defiance, there were no regular church services, and, until the court house was erected, no suitable house for worship. The Methodists, however, held services at short intervals, sometimes in private houses, and, when the weather was favorable, in the adjaceat groves. The first Presbyterian clergyman was Eev. Mr. Stowe (father of Mrs. William A. Brown, now living at Defiance). During his residence in .Defiance, Dr. Evans possessed more fully the confidence of the Indians than the majority of those who had had dealings with them. He acquired this confidence by professional ministrations, by fairness in trade and refusing their applications for intoxicating drinks. When the Indian men and women would visit town and the former obtain liquor from mercenary traders and become drunken and crazed, and their brutal nature aroused, the latter would gather up the tomahawks and knives of their lords and deposit them about the premises of their friend. Dr. Evans. On one occasion the chief, Oc-co-nox-ee, of Oc-co-nox-ee town, on the Auglaize (now Charloe, Paulding County), brought one of his daughters to the Doctor to be treated for some malady which had baffled the skill of the Indian " medicine man." She was received into the Doctor's household and in due time restored ' to health. As an equivalent for this service the chief made the Doctor a present of an Indian pony. In 1S3S, with a view of affording his children opportunities for obtaining better educational facilities, he temporarily removed to Troy, Ohio, and continued there until the fall of 1S40, when he removed to Fort Wayne and engaged actively in commercial pursuits in partnership with his son-in-law, John E. Hill. During his residence in Troy, he had continued business in Defiance, and now from the two stores they supplied the contractors, who were consti'ucting the Paulding County Eeservoir, with goods to prosecute their work. In 1840, he removed the Defiance stock to Fort Wayne and concentrated his business at that point. In the summer of 1842, business called Dr. Evans to Defiance, and while here he was seized with an illness that would have induced an ordinary person to remain and receive medical treatment, but his indomitable will had determined him to make an effort to reach his family at Fort Wayne. Leaving Defiance on horseback, he had traveled only about a mile and reached the house of Thomas Warren, when the intensity of his sufferings arrested his progress, and he remained at the house of ^\'arren two or three days. Meanwhile, believing himself, doubtless, that his case was critical, he dispatched a messenger to Fort Wayne to notify his family of his condition. On the message being communicated to his family, his son, Samuel Carey Evans, immediately started to meet his father, and, reaching the bedside, discovered the alarming symptoms of the case, and at once dispatched a second messenger to Fort A¥ayne to summon Dr. S. G. Thompson, and also to notify his mother and other members of his family of his fa- tiler's condition. The intelligence being communicated, Dr. Thompson and Miss Merica Evans, second daughter of the Doctor, at once set out on horseback, and notwithstanding the bad condition of the roads reached Mrs. Hilton's, mother of Brice Hilton (to whose house, in order to secure more comfortable quarters, Dr. Evans had been removed), within eight hours after leaving Fort Wayne.

Dr. Evans, by this time becoming fully conscious that he could only survive a few hours, dictated the following as his last will and testament (Dr. Thompson acting as amanuensis) and which embodied a distribution of his estate adjusted upon such nice princijiles of justice and affection that no word of complaint or discord was ever uttered by the parties affected by it:

I, John Evans, Ijcing weak in body, but sound in mind and memory, -knowing the uncertainty of life and the certainty of death, do make and publish this my lust will and testament, hereby revoking all former wills. First - I commit my soul to God who gave it, and my body to the earth, to be buried at Fort Wayne, in such manner as my family may dh-ect. And I hereby appoint my daughter Merica and m}^ son.s Carey and Hush, together with Allen Hamilton, Hugh McCulloch and Pierce Evans, as my executors; and it is my desire that the three last-named executors shall permit my sons Carey and Rush to continue the mercantile business until all my just del)ts are paid; after which it is my desire that my beloved wife shall have one-third of all my per.sonal and real estate during her life, and desire that my daughter, Eliza Hill, shall receive nothing more until my other children have received one thousand dollars each. After which, I wish the balance of my property equally distributed among my children. And I further desire that my children shall provide for Aley Cumberland [a faithful colored servant of the family] so long as she may live; and it is my special request that my friends, the three last-named executors, will not make an.y public sale of property, but permit my sous to sell at private sale to the best advantage. Signed, sealed and delivered, this 10th day of August, A. D. 1843.

Having performed this last earthly duty, his remaining moments were consecrated to the service of his Maker, and in endearing expressions of affection for the two members of his family who were present, and in messages to those who were unavoidably absent.

On the following day, August 11, 1842, his death occurred. And thus at the age of forty-eight years the honorable career of Dr. John Evans was brought to a close in the very prime of his manhood. No death that occurred in the valley during that year produced a more general or profound regret. The physician whose skill had prolonged the lives of multitudes was unable to heal himself. An obituary of the Fort Wayne Times, of September 17th, 1842, appears below:

" The removal of this highly respectable and enterprising citizen from the sphere of his earthly labors has excited the deepest sympathy and the sincerest regrets among a numerous circle of friends and acquaintances; and has cast a deep shade over the hope and happiness of a disconsolate wife and bereaved family. He is now no more - all that was mortal rests within the portals of the tomb; but his memory will ever live in the hearts of all who knew him. His weight of character, his great moral worth, and exemplary deportment, to each and every relation of life, will be remembered, his virtues admired, and his memory cherished, as long as the qualities that adorn human nature shall be held in proper estima tion.

" At a very early period in the settlement of Northwestern Ohio, Dr. Evans located at Defiance. The extended, practice and the extraordinary degree of favor which he then obtained, are sufficient evidences of his eminent merit. It may be said with truth in the beautiful language of the poet:

" After having passed the meridian of life in the practice of a laborious profession, he removed his family for a short period to Troy, Ohio, and thence to this city, with a view of establishing his sons in the mercantile business, and reposing during the remainder of his days, in the midst of his beloved family, and in the enjoyment of an honorably acquired competence. He went to Defiance about the commencement of the month (August) for the purpose of transacting some business. While there he felt unwell, and fearing an attack of disease, he started for home, but before proceeding far his progress was arrested by a most severe attack of bilious pneu- monia, which terminatod his earthly existence on the seventh day following. During his short but painful illness he was composed and resigned, ho expressed a desire to live only on account of his family. He art)used from the stupor of approaching dissolution to assure them of his entire willingness to meet his Maker. As his life had been honorable and useful, his death was peaceful and happy."

Mrs. Elizabeth Evans (widow of Dr. John Evans), survived her husband upward of thirty years, remaining at her home in Fort Wayne, keeping house most of the time up to the time of her death, but died at her son-in law's, Henry J. lludisill, March, 1874 or 1X75, at Fort A\'ayne, Ind.

The subject of this sketch was born in Henniker, N. H. , December '20, 1806. His parents were of English descent, and his early life was spent on his father's farm. The New England farmer of that day was able to give his children but few educational advantages beyond those of the ordinary district school, consequently when Dr. Colby, at the age of eighteen, eiiteri^d the medical department of Dartmouth College he was obliged to support himself by teaching. But by perseverance and economy he succeeded by his own efforts in fitting himself for his profession. Not content with merely fulfilling the requirements necessary to obtain a diploma which only necessitated his attendance at two courses of lectures, he took a third course in order the better to prepare himself for the work of his life. After practicing medicine three years in his native State, he removed to Defiance, Ohio, in 1832. For many years after his location in Defiance, his life was one of unusual hardship, even for a pioneer physician. The country was new and sparsely settled, making long rides necessary, where streams had no bridges, and roads were only trails, the nearest places at which there were physicians being Fort Wayne and Maumee, and his practice extending over several counties, running north to Fayette, near the Michigan line and south to Fort Jennings. On one occasion he rode 118 miles in twouty-four hours, and at another time had no sleep for three nights and four days, except what he could catch on horseback In times of high water, he was obliged to swim his horse across the streams in cold weather or warm. But being blessed with a good constitution and an iron will, he was able to endure such hardships as most men nowadays would shrink from. In 1837, he was apointed Postmaster o^" Defiance, and held the office several years. In 1839, he was appointed by the United States Government to accompany as physician a tribe of Indians that were being sent from Northwestern Ohio to the country beyond the Missouri Eiver. Starting out from Defiance, they went down the Maumee Kiver to Maumee City, then took lake vessels from there to Cleveland, from there by canal boats down the Ohio Canal to the Ohio River, thence down the Ohio River to the Mississippi, thence uj^ the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, taking several weeks to make the trip, which can now be made in twenty-four hours. About the same time, he was appointed Associate Judge of Williams County, this being before the organization of Defiance County, and he discharged the duties of this office for five years. During tho late civil war, he earnestly espoused the cause of the Union, serving as Chairman of a Military Committee, and as Examining Surgeon for Defiance County, holding a commission as Military Surgeon with the rank of Major; for a number of years after the war he was examining Surgeon for pensions. Five years after settling at Defiance, he was married to Almira Hull (first white child born in the Maumee Valley), of Maumee City Ohio, who is still living at Defiance. To them were born six children, three boys and three girls - Cornelia E., who married Charles Kahlo, of Logansport, Ind., State Senator from Cass County; Gecn-ge F., who died in infancy; Alice A., married J. S. Alexander, attorney at law, Indianapolis, Ind. ; Mary C. , married John C. Ingram, cashier of Logansport Banking Company, Logansport, Ind. Of the two boys now living in this city, Ferris W., the oldest, is engaged in the real estate business. He was married, September 14, 1870, to Miss Anna L., daughter of J. P. Ottley, of this city. They have two children, Hattie C. and Flora M. ; Willis D., unmarried, of the firm of Colby & Scott, is engaged in the wholesale and retail drug business. The boys, Ferris V\\ and AVillis D. , are graduates of the New York College of Pharmacy of New Yoik City

One who knew Dr. Colby many years says he cottld never be induced to turn aside from his profession for the purpose of making money. He had no ambition to be called a rich man by his neighbors and never desired more than a comfortable living. But the good judgment, coupled with caution, deliberation and method, which characterized him in the practice of medicine was so manifest in all his business dealings, it may be said of him that he could not help acquiring a handsome property. He made no ventures, he incurred no debts. The profits of a lucrative practice and of an economical life, were simply carefully invested, generally in real estate, and he realized slowly but surely by the enhancement of iis value. But what is better tban riches or real estate, he leaves as a legacy to his family the name of having been strictly honest and honorable in all his business affairs. He took only his due. His word was as good as his note, and the lattor equivalent to the money. Although a man of few words and one with whom strangers ionnd it difficult to become readily acquainted, he possessed a kind heart and had a word of encouragement for all who sought his advice. As a physician, he was prompt and attentive. As a surgeon, he was bold and self-possessed, and in either place he was successful to an unusual degree. He continued the active practice of his profession up to the day of his death, :\ray 28, 1876.

This association was organized in 1880, and is at present composed of the following members: L. G. Th acker, M. B. Stevens, A. Berchtold, W T. Harris, W. S. Powell, J. J. Eeynolds, K. W. Pinch, J. Y. Lesuet, H. H. Zeigler.

This association is auxiliary to the State Medical Society, to which it sends delegates, as well as to the American Medical Association, with which it is in harmony, being governed^ by the same rules and regulations.

A physician, to become a member of this association, must be a graduate of some recognized medical college, which teaches the science and art of medicine in its entirety, and does not confine its instructions to the limits of any exclusive dogma or pathy. This association meets on the first Tuesday of each month, and has for its object the advancement of medical knowledge among its members by discussions, essays and free interchange of thought on subjects relating to the science of medicine.

Masonic

The institutions of Masonry are well established in Defiance, working the degrees and orders up to Knights Templar. The " disinterested friendship," " unbounded hospitality," and " good, square work" of the Defiance brethren, are " known of all men."

The Blue Lodge

At the session of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in Ohio, held at Steubenville, October, 1849, dispensation was granted to James M. Elder, Ephraim A. Greenlee, Jacob J. Greene, James Cheney, Peter Zimmerman, M. H. Curtis, Joram Allen and David Taylor for a lodge of Masons at the town of Defiance and naming therein James M. Elder as the Master; E. A. Greenlee, Senior Warden; and J. J Greene, Junior Warden, of the new lodge. Not having any near neighbors to assist in instruction and work, a Lecturer was engaged and the whole of that winter was devoted to learning the work- lectures. The first work was done March 22, 1850, when John M. Stilwell and \Villiam Semans were initiated. Since that time the records show that degrees have been conferred on more than three hundred brethren.

At the session of the Grand Lodge held October, 1850, at Cincinnati, the work and proceedings of the new lodge were approved, and a charter issued, with the name Tu en-da-wie (signifying in the language of the Wyandots, the junction of two rivers), and numbered 195. The charter named (at request of the lodge) as first officers thereunder, David Taylor, "W. M. ; Erastus H. Leland, S. W. ; and John W. Stilwill, J. W.

Masters who have been elected to preside since are: Chauncy Coston, Erastus H, Leland, Jacob J. Greene, John W. McKim, Henry Handy, Lake B. Myers, Isaac Corwin, Charles M. Thrall, Henry Newbegin, Joseph Ealston, W. G. Blymyer, Elmer "\^'hite, Livingston E. Beardsley and E. Squires.

The number of members, as reported to the Grand Lodge last October, was 127, and the dues then paid amounted to 157. 50 - not more than ten lodges out of 520 on the roll paying in a larger sum.

The anniversary of St. John the Evangelist, Dec. 1859, was observed by public procession, installation of officers, and the delivery of an address by Judge Dunlap, of Toledo, with a re-union of Masons and their families in the evening at the Eussell House, but then recently opened.

The Chapter

In the annual communication of Grand High Priest Thomas J. Larsh, to the Grand Chapter of Koyal Arch Masons, held at Collimbus, October, 1864, he says: " On the 13th day of January last, I issued a dispensation to Companions Jacob J. Greene, Isaac Corwin, Lake E. Myers, John Paul, Henry Hardy, Henry C. Bouton, James G. Haley, William J. Jackson and Jacob Fegtley, for the establishment of a chapter at Defiance, in Defiance County, to be called Ensa-woc-sa Chapter, No. - , and appointed the first named companions to be the first High Priest, King and Scribe of said Chapter;" and in the proceedings of said grand body, page 18, the Committee on Ohari.ers and Dispensations report that " they have oxamined the dispensation, rocords and by-laws of En-sa-woc-sa Chapter, U. D. , located at Defiance, Ohio. Their records iim vci-y well kept. Wo recommend that the by-laws be appn^vod and that a chartor be issued to said Chapter;" which recommendation was adopted, and the nnmber given to the new Chapter was 89. The name sc^loetod was the Pottawatomie name for the locality, and said to liave the same sif^nilioation aa Tu-en-dii-wie. The High Priests of the Chapter have been J. <1. Ciociio, Henry Newbegin, Joseph Ralston, VV. G. Blymyer and Prank (.\. Brown.

On the 20th day of February, 1S6U, Puissant Grand Master Charles Brown, issued a disjiensation to Companions Jacob J. Crreene, Joshua P. Ottley, Louis Degginger, Isaac Corwin, John L. Scott, Henry Newbegiu, (roorgo M'. Deatrick, F. W. Dittmer and Lake E. Myers, for a Council of Royal and Select Masters at Deliauoe, Ohio, and at the grand council held at Cleveland, in October of that year, a charter was granted to said Companions affixing the number ^5.

The name selected for the new Council was Oc-conox-ee, the name of the Chief of the Ottawa tribe of Indians resident in this vicinity, removed west of the Mississippi in 1832. The new Council was constituted and officers installed the succeeding December, by Deputy Grand Master Calvin Halliday, of Lima.

The Thv. 111. Grand Masters of Oc-co-nox-ee Council, No. 55, since its organization have been Jacob J. (Iroono, Henry Newbegin, Isaac Corwin, Joseph Ralston, Elmer White and Henry Hardy.

The Oommandeey

At the annual conclave of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar, held at Cleveland in August, 1877, a dispensation was granted to Sirs Jacob J. Greene, Joseph Ralston, Joshua P. Ottley, Henry Harily, Elmer White, A\'. G. Blymyer, James J. Jarvis, Georii-e W. Bechel, Alexander Bruner, Louis Deo-ginger, Isaac Coiwin, George W. Deatrick, "William A. Kehnast, F. William Dittmer, E. F. Aldrich, Edwai-d Squire, Peter Kettenring, Lake Erie Myers, John L. Scott and John F. Deatrick, for a new Commandery, at Detiance, to be called "Defiance Commandery" - naming J. J. Greene as the fii-st Eminent Connnander, Joseph Ralston first Generalissimo, and John L. Scott, the first Captain General. At the next meeting of the Grand Commandery held at Putin-Bay, August 28, 1878, a charter was granted to Detiance Commandery No. 30. By appointment of the Grand Commander, Past Eminent Com. Walker, of Toledo, constituted the new Commandery and installed its olftcors, on which occasion wore present officers of the General Grand Commandery with many other visiting Knights.

Grand Commander Babcock also visited the Commandery in July in 1878, and inspected the work, commending all, particularly that of the Prelate.

I. o. o. F. Fort Defiance Lodge, No. 134, I. O. 0. P., was organized in J. H. Kiser, Sr. 's, saddler shop, then located in the burnt district opposite the Russell House, and was instituted September 0, 1849. Its charter members were J. B. Laughlin, A. M. Richards, S S. Sprague, J. W. Phillips and H. C. Bouton. The lodge rented this room about four or five years, and among the many members initiated in that room ai'e found the names of L. C. Noble, Thomas Garnett, Edward H. Phelps, Edwin Phelps, R. R. Thi-all, Joseph Rogers, B. F. Deamer, E. A. Greenlee, John Finn, William E. Enos, O. Evans, John Tuttle, William Sheffield, C. W. Evans, J. D. Graper andF. D. Harris; but of all these including the charter members, two only remain as active members, viz. : Edwin Phelps and J. D. Graper. The lodge removed from this room to the room over the store in the frame building near the Maumee bridge, at the foot of Clinton street, where Krotz's brick building now stands. They remained there about six years, when they moved into Petersen's block, remaining there until about 1S71- 72, when thoy moved to their present location in Weisenberger's building. Their night of meetincr is Friday.

The records show 280 names on their books. Of these, eighty-five have taken final cards, forty-five ai-e dead, and forty-seven were dropped for non-payment of dues, leaving besides those whose membership was severed from other causes, an active membership of ninety -five.

Defiance Encampment, No. 87, I. 0. O. F.

This Encampment was instituted July 16, 1862. Its charter members were Joseph Ralston, F. A\'. Graper, H. B. Hall; J. D. Graper, J. W. Phillips and M. Houtz. Its membership is small, being only twenty-two, and almost all its older members have passed the chair and are entitled to P. C. P. honors. Its night of meeting is the first and third Tuesdays of each month.

On the evening of January 19, 1875, the following gentlemen met in the lodge room of the Sons of Temperance in Peterson's block, for the purpose of organizing a lodge of Knights of Honor of the World. Elmer White, W. G. Blymyer, John F. Deatrick, John B. Hootman, John H. Conkle, George AV Bechel, J. P. Buffington, Charles E. Slocum, Frank Kahlo, Lake E. Myers, Charles F. Switzer, A. M. Shead, L. W. Richardson, R. Brown, A. Baum, Charles B. Squire, Henry Crosby, L. E. Crandall. James F. Crandall and Henry Kuhl. A ballot was then taken to ascertain if all the gentlemen present were willing to become members and was found clear. Dr. A. E. Keys, of Mansfield, Ohio, acting as Deputy Grand Dictator, instituted Defiance Lodge, No. 71, K. of H. , and installed the following officers: Past Dictator, J. F. Deatrick; Dictator, Elmer White; Vice Dictator, J. P. Buffington; Assistant Dictator, A. M. Shead; Guide, John B. Hootman; Reporter, L. E. Crandall; Finance Reporter, Lake E. Myers; Treasurer, George W. Bechel; Sentinel, L. F. Switzer.

The Knights of Honor is a corporation formed to promote benevolence, morality, science and industry. The object is to unite all white men between the age of twenty-one and fifty-five years in one common brotherhood, for mutual protection both in life and at death - in life to assist each other to obtain employment; in death, to assist the widows and orphans by establishing a fund of $2,000, payable to a brother's family, or as he may direct at his death.

The lodge has gradually increased until it has a membership of forty-five members. Its present officers at this date (March 19, 1881) are as follows: Past Dictator, P. Dickman; Dictator, J. P. Partee; Vice Dictator, A. B. Woodruflf; Assistant Dictator, T. J. Rose; Reporter, J. F. Crandall; Financial Reporter, A. Viers; Treasurer, R. Brown.

They meet second and fourth Monday of each month in their nicely furnished rooms in what is known as the stone front Flickinger and Weisenberger Block, and on third floor over Flickinger & Blair's dry goods store. The society is in a flourishing condition and is prompt in meeting all its demands,

Eoyal Aeoanum

Defiance Council, No. 67, Royal Arcanum, was instituted at Defiance, Ohio, on the 28th day of March, A. D. 1878, by P. L. Teeple, D. G. R., with foriy-five charter members and the following officers; Elmer White, Regent; M. E. Orcutt, Vice Re-

Since that time there have been no deaths in this Council, but some of the members have dropped their connection with the <)r<;"inization. The present number is forty-one. The Council electa officers twice a year, and nov? has the following officers: P. J. Shead, Regent; E. P. Hooker, Vice Regent F. G. Brown, Orator; J. I. Levy, Past Regent Enos Blair, Secrel^ary; Thomas T. Hilton, Collector William Kehnast, Treasurer; P. Dickman, Chaplain; John H. Kiser, Guide; G. Brown, Warden; A. Viers, Sentry.

The object of the order is life insurance, with sick benefits and social improvements, the insurance feature is jmrely mutual, and the fund is raised by assessments by members, according to age at admission in such a manner that one assessment is always in the hands of the Treasurer as near as can be ascertained. The total number of members is 27,000. The order has the usual amount of unwiitten work.

American Legion Of Honob

Fort Defiance Council American Legion of Honor was instituted March 25, 1881, by P. L. Teeple, D. G, commander, with sixty-eight charter members and served by the following officers: Commander, Elmer White; Vice Commander, H. B. Harris; Past Commander, Hon. W. D. Hill; Orator, Walter Hill; Secretary, M. E. Orcutt; Collector, Charles J. Chenevert; Guide, J. P. Cameron; Chaplain, R. H. Glea- Bon; Treasurer, W. Curtis Holgate; Warden, Frank Ferguson; Sentry, George Miller. The society has for its object mutual, social, sick and funeral benefits. To pay the benefits, assessments are levied upon the members according to age and amount of benefit they expect to receive. The plan of assessment is the same as Royal Arcanum. Meetings are held tri-monthly. While the society is yet young, it is in a vigorous and healthy condition.

The present officers are J. W. Childs, Commander; Walter Hilton, Vice Commander; L. E. Boardsley, Past Commander; S. P. Cheney, Orator; J. W. Strattou, Secretary; A\'. E. Moll, Collector; Theodore Ensign, Guide; Thomas Hilton, Treasurer; H. W. Myers, Warder; and Henry Brichbill, Sentry.

Supreme Council, on July 5, 1880. Membership thirty. The present officers are: Rev. J. B. Young, Spiritual Director and President; ADhq Bauer, Vice President; J. M. Preisendorfer, Recording Secretary; J. P. Weismantle, Finance Secretary; Dr. A. Bechtold, Treasurer,

This society was organized in May, 1875. Its object is purely benevolent. Assistance and "help are to be rftndered during the sickness of each member. In case of death the society will attend the funeral service and give a moderate support to the widow of the departed brother.

The Grangers

AuQ^laize Grange, No. 371, P. of H., was organized January 14, 1874, with the following members: William Philli2:)s and wife, A, J. Dils and wife, Joshua Dicus and wife, Michael Humbert and wife, A. B. V. Sponsler and wife, M, C. Todd and wife, J. F. Garman and wife, S. W. Carpenter and wife, Henry Schoonover, Levis Sitterly, R. P. Romine, H. S. Vanvlerah, Lovina Sandoz, Amos Sandoz, Job English and wife, J. H. Morris and wife, Noah Devault, J. A. Phillips, Maria Vauvlerah, Isabel Schoonover, Sarah Schoonover, S. M. Shirley and wife, O. P. Graham and wife, Christopher Rose, Rachel Phillips and Sarah Rose, The following is a list of the first officers: William Phillips, Worthy Master; A. J. Dils, Overseer; Henry Schoonover, Lecturer; Michael Humbert, Stewart; Joshua Dicus, Chaplain; J. F. Garman, Treasiu-er; H. S. Vanvlerah, Secretary; S. W, Carpenter, Assistant Steward; Lewis Sitterly: Gate-keeper; Ceres, Nancy Dils; Pomona, Isabel Schoonover; Flora, Rachel Phillips; Lady Assistant Steward, Sarah Schoonover, The first member initiated after its organization was Hon. John Ta^-lor, who, although past eighty-one years of age, is still a zealous worker for the good of the order. Since then, there have been sixty-two members enrolled. Four have been lost by death, viz, : Smith Mead, Henry Wells, Daniel R. Boor and Mrs, Alice Morris, Meetings are held every fortnight at Grange Hall, Section 10, where a supply of goods such as gro- 'ceries are kept for the accommodation of the members. The condition of the Grange is good, both financially and socially, and it is increasing in numbers, eleven being initiated the past year. The following is a list of the olflcers elected for 1881: David McCallister, Worthy Master; J. H, Morris, Overseer; H. K. Morris, Lecturer; John McCallister, Steward; James H, Mor-

The organization, called the Grand Army of the Republic, was instituted in the city of Indianapolis, Ind., November 20, 1866, to supplement solidify, and perpetuate the results of the great war of the rebellion. For fourteen years this order has been working diligently and increasing in number and power and is now i!omposed of one National Encampment, thirty Department Encampments and over one thousand subordinate Posts throughout the United States, embracing nearly every State and Territory in the Union, and having an enrollment of over one hundred thousand good and true men, some of whom occupy positions of the highest trust and emolument in the councils of the nation and States. In this organic element by their existing laws, no political question can be presented or discussed, no man's political views or ten dencies are ever questioned, and all that is ever required of him is that he should have served the country faithfully when she called for his service and received an honorable discharge, and that he now afSrms his loyalty to the flag, the constitution and the laws of the United States, and now has the respect of his fellow-men. In the same manner and with equal vigor are all questions of religious nature eschewed, only reserving the belief in and reverence for the great God who made all the worlds and all things therein and the priceless golden rule. The workings of this order are truly and purely social, humanitarian and military, the objects being set forth in the rules and regulations of the order and are as follows:

1 st. To preserve and strengthen those kind and fraternal feelings which bind together the soldiers, sailors and mariners who united to suppress the late rebellion and to perpetuate the memory and history of the dead. 2d. To assist such former comrades in arms as need help and protection and to extend the needful aid to the widows and orphans of those who have fallen.

3d. To maintain true allegiance to the United States of America based upon the paramount respect for and fidelity to the National Constitution and laws and to disvjountenance whatever tends to weaken loyalty or to incite insurrection, treason or rebellion, or in any manner impair the efficienc}' and permanency of our free institutions, and to encourage the spread of our universal liberty and eqaal rights and justice to all men.

County who survived the long years of war realizing the importance and propriety of such an organization that would bring them together in social re- union and cultivate a more fraternal feeling, and through which the hallowed memory of those who had fallen by their side might be kept forever green, and that it would enable them to assist each other in time of need, and aid the helpless widows and orphans of their late comrades, proceeded to organize a Post at Defiance, and some time in the month of January, 1879, wrote to the department headquarters, then at Toledo, Ohio, and obtained the necessary blanks for the purpose of forming a Post, and after obtaining the required names of comrades in good standing, and having forwarded the same tu the Assistant Adjutant General of the Department of Ohio Grand Army of the Republic, the department commander granted a charter on the 8th day of July, and detailed Comrade Cecil A, Hall, of Forsythe Post No. 15, of Toledo, Ohio, and ordered him to proceed to Defiance and muster the applicants whose names were signed to the petition for admission to the ranks of the Grand Armj' of the Republic, and on the l-tth day of July, 1879, Comrade Cecil A. Hall, special mustering officer, accompanied by Henry S. Bunker, Assistant Adjutant General of the Department-of the Ohio Grand Army of the Republic, came to Defiance, and the following comrades were mustered into the Grand Army of the Republic, to wit: William B. Carpenter, L. W. Richardson, Albert W. King, George Hooker, Frank C. Culley, George W. Killey, W. S. Hoffard, Solomon Deamer, A. B. Woodruff, William H. Ralston, John E. Richardson, Franklin Duck, George dinger, B. B. Woodcox, Luther H. Robinson, Henry Kuhl, B. F. Southworth, Robert Cary, Frederick Conrad, George T. Squires, William Andrews, W. S. McClary, all of whom thereby became the charter members of Bishop Post, No. 22, of Defiance Department of Ohio Grand Army of the Republic. Immediately after being mustered into the order, they proceeded to the election of officers, and the following were the officers duly elected, appointed and installed in their respective offices for the remainder of the year of 1879:

Commander of Post, William E. Carpenter; Senior Vice Commander, B. F. Southworth; Junior Yice Commander, George T. Squires; Surgeon, William Rals' on, M. D. ; Chaplain, Luther H. Roberson; Quartermaster, A. W. King; Adjutant, Frank C. Culley; Officer of the Day, Henry Kuhl; Officer of the Guard, B. B. Woodcox; Sergeant Major, George Hooker; Quarter-master Sergeant, L. W. Richardson.

At the annual election held at the close of thin year, the following were elected, appointed and properly installed as the officers of this Post for the year of 1880:

Commander of Post, William E. Carpenter; Senior Vice Commander, A. B. Woodruff; Junior Vice Commander, John Wiilmer; Senior iSurgeon of Post, Wiliam H. Kalston, M. D. ; Chaplain, Luther H. Robcrson; Quartermaster, A. W. King; Adjutant, George Hooker; Officer of the Day, Henry Kuhl; Officer of the Guard, Solomon Deamer; Sergeant Major, J. O. Foot; Quartermaster Sergeant, L. W. Richardson. M. B. Stevens, M. D., and John Richolt were selected this year on the staff of the Department Commander D. W. Thomas, of Akron, Ohio, the former as Aido-de-Camp and the latter as Assistant Inspector. George W. Killey, of this Post, was elected a momhor of the Council of Administration at the department encampment held at Cleveland, Ohio, in that year. In this year the Post lost one member by death - Comrade Thomas B. Wade, who departed from earth to join the grand army above. During the year, largo accessions v^oro made to the order, and at the close of this year (1880) the Post then numbered seventy-two members in good standing in the order.

At the next annual election held in December, 1880, the following ?omrades were elected, appointed and properly installed as officers of this Post for the year 1881, and were installed in their respective offices by George W. Killey, special mustering officer :

Commander of I'ost, A. B. Woodruff; Senior Vice Commander, Franklin Duck; Junior Vice Commander, Henry Kuhl; Surgeon, M. B. Stevens, M. D. ; Chaplain, Luther H. Robinson; Quartermaster, A. ^\\ King; Adju^-nnt, George Hooker; Officer of the Day, Solomon Deamer; Officer of the Guard, Werner Wrede; Sergeai ajor, Baxter Davis; Quartermaster Sergeant, L. W. Richardson. Comrades Frank C. Culloy and ,. jhn Richolt were appointed this year upon the staff of John S. Kountz, Dep^u-tment Commander, the former as Aide-de Camp and the latter as Assistant Inspector. Comrade William E, Carpenter of this Post was appointed Assistant Quartermaster General of the Department of Ohio, for the year of 1881. This Post was named after Capt. William Bishop, Company D, One Hundredth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, who was mortally wounded in battle at Pumpkin Vine Creek, Go., May ^8, 18()4, and died June 15, 1864. He proved himself a brave and efficient officer, and was much esteemed by all that knew him. He was formerly a resident of Defiance, Oliio.

Churches Op Defiance

St. Paul's Methodist Episcopal Church is situated on the corner of Third and Waj-no streets, Defiance, Oiiio. The first Methodist sermon was preached in Defiance in A. D. 1825, by Rev. William Simmons, of Xenia, Ohio. Soon after, a Rev. Mr. Weir also preached in the private house of Mr. Leavell, one of the town proprietors, having among his auditors Messrs. LeavcU, Wasson, YVarren, Dr. John Evans and William C'raig. In 18:^6, Kev. Elias I'ettit, the first regularlj' appointed ^lethodist minister, look charge at Defiance and in the same year organized a small socictj', who built a log church on the

In 1834, the first Sunday school was organized with four officers and teachers and twenty-three scholars. In 1841, a board of trustees was organized, consisting of J. I'>. Seamans, Thomas Warren, Joseph Taylor, James Ward and Nathan Shirley. June 26, 1841, a new board of church trustees was created, consisting of J. B. Seamans, Thomas Warren, James Ward, Isaac Craig and Nathan Shirley, who were instructed to erect a new church, the contract for the building of which they let to J. B. Seamans, of Defiance, at $1,050. The church record goes back to 1832, and gives the following dates and ministers on Defiance Circuit :

Defiance Circuit consisted of eleven preaching places as follows: Defiance, Perkins, Bowens, Richardsons, Coys, Hamiltons, Runyans, Banks, Quicks, Snooks and Shirleys; with but one log church which was in Defiance on the lot now occupied by the parsonage.

In 1857, Defiance was made a station and Rev. A. B. Poc appointed pastor, and the following ministers have since served the church : Jacob Petgley, S. H. Alderman, S. S. Barter, D. G. Strong. T. C. Reed, A. Berry, G. Leose, A. J. Pish, S. L. Roberts. In the spring of 1871, the present brick church was commenced and completed in 1873, at a cost of nearly $25,000.

The First Presbyterian Church Op Defiance, Ohio

The first movement toward the organization of a Presbyterian Church in Defiance was made on the 10th day of August, 1837. A public meeting was called on that day for the purpose of forming an Ecclesiastical Society. Mr. N. B. Adams was called to the chair and Dr. Jonas Colby appointed Secretary. After the notice of the meeting was read, it was resolved that a committee of three persons be appointed to form a constitution for said society.

Mr. Pierce Evans, John W. Moore and N. B. Adams were appointed a committee to draw a subscription paper, and ascertain how much can be secured for the support of a Presbyterian or Congregational preacher.

It was also voted that the above committee confer with Rev. William B. Stowe and ascertain on what conditions he may be had as pastor of this society. This meeting then adjourned to meet August 19, at 3 o'clock P. M.

It does not seem that anything was done in the matter of organizing the church which was made a matter of record until November 9, when a meeting was held by Rev. William B. Stowe and the names of a number of persons were obtained who were willing to unite in the organization of a Presl)yterian Church.

On the 11th day of December, 1837, the church was formally organized by the adoption of the Presbyterian form of government and the election of Elders.

The following persons are the original members : Mr. N. B. Adams, Mr. Curtis Holgate, Mr. Joim Whitney- Dr. Jerome Allen, Jlr. (afterward Doctor) Oramel H. Allen, Mr. Sereno Lyman, Mrs. Mary Adams, Mrs. Eliza Holgate, Mrs. Ruth Whitney, Mrs. Sarah Lewis, Mrs Phebe Allen, Mrs. Eliza Brubacher, Mrs, Abijah Thrall, Mrs. Almira P. Moore, Misses Juliette Holgate, Bcts}' A. Daggett and Jliss Eunice Daggett, Mrs. Hannah Goodyear and Mrs. Parker. Mr, Nathaniel B. Adams and Mr. Curtis Holgate were chosen Elders, and Mr. Sereno Lyman was chosen Clerk.

Religious services were first held in the court house, the first brick building built in the town, which is still standing on Lot 58, the lot adjacent to the one now occupied by our present house of worship, and is used as a dwelling house by Henry Hard}', Esq., althis time. This old court house was the place where all schools were kept, and in which meetings of all kinds were held. It has been rendered historic from the fact that in it, about the year 1839, Morrison R, Waite, the present Chief Justice ol' the United States, made his first .speech before a court of record, and we may add in

The church was under the pastoral care of the Rev. W. B. Stowe until the spring of 1839, and enjoyed a reasonable degree of prosperity during his pastorate, a number of accessions being made to the church during this time. Mr. Stowe, on account of ill health, closed his labors on the 31st of March, 1839. January 15, 1840, Curtis Holgate, August 9, 1843, Nathaniel B. Adams, the first two Elders departed this life. December 11, 1840, the church invited the Rev. E. R. Tucker to become their pastor. Mr. Tucker accepted the call and was accordingly ordained and installed pastor on the 9th day of v^uly, 1841. Mr. Tucker proved to be a man of earnest piety, and a devoted pastor. For twenty years he fulfilled the office to which he had been called with great fidelitj'. When he took charge of this congregation, the nearest Presbj'terian Church was man^' miles distant, and he often had to travel fifteen or twenty miles on foot to attend funerals and perform other pastoral duties. It was through his exertions, supported by a few members, that the meeting house was built. While here, he declined a professorship in the University of Ohio at three times his salary as preacher. Twenty j-ears of toil broke down his constitution, and soon after he retired to his old home in the East, and died at Newburyport, Mass., in January, 1861. At the time of Mr Tucker's call, the church was very weak in means ; onl} from ^60 or $70 a year being raised for the support of the pastor in the church and congregation for several 3'ears. Eliza Holgate, widow of Curtis Holgate, deceased, contributed about one-half of this amount, and boarded Mr, Tucker, then unmarried, being a young man of some twenty-one years of age, at $] a week, Mrs. N. B. Adams also boarded Mr. Tucker about two years, at same price per week.

The congregation worshiped for some time in a room in a frame building known as the " Gray House," that had been used as a hotel, and that stood on Lot 44, the site of the residence of the late William Carter, deceased ; afterward, in a building on the corner of Clinton and Front streets. This was an upper room of a structure then occupied as a drug store by Dr. 0. H. Allen. The building is now used as an agricultural warehouse.

The limited means of the church at this time was really not much greater, comparatively', than that of the town and couiitrj' in those days. There was scarcely any money in it. The chief business currency was " county orders," rated at 50 and 60 cents on the dollar ; canal due bills," issued by contractors then building the canal, rated at same price (for the bonds of the State were no higher) ; " wolf-scalp orders," coon and deer skins. It was deemed by some strange that J\lr. Tucker should so patiently and perseveringly remain and work with so small a pittance for a salary, but it was stranger still that he should have conceived the idoa, in tlic close times ami uiidor tlic straitened circumstances I refer to, of securing the lot and the erection of the large and commodious edilice which tiio church now occuijies. But Mr. Tucker started this then great enterprise I'or tlie church and sncei'cded in carr}'- ing it tlirough. He hud a few zealous assistants; of these I will now name Mrs. l<]liza Brubaclier, Mrs. Eliza Uolgate and Or. (). II. Allen. Mrs. |(]liza llol^ate, wliom. we have already mentioned, gave most of the lot on which the building is situatiul. Mrs. Ilolgate died December 27, 1851. Two of her ciiildren, Mrs. E. G. Willey and Mrs. K. P. Hooker, are now living at Defiance, and raember.M and regular attendants of the eliurch. The frame of this church was very heavy timber, put up by David L. Oliver, deceased, one of the best of carpenters, who was the first husband of Mrs. Moon, now living in our citj'. It stood several years without being weather-boarded. To assist Mr. Tucker in carrying through his enterprise, Mrs. Eliza Brubaclicr, about this time, organized the first sewing society in the church, and at one of the gatherings of this society, on the completion of a quilt, being asked what they were going to do with it, the ladies replied, " We are going to cover the church with it." Some assistance was also received from abroad. Mr. Tucker was a man of solid attainments and earnest piety, and enjoyed the confidence of every one while he remained resident of Defiance. He resigned the pastorate in 18(10, and shortly afterward removed to Newbury port, Mass., where ho soon after died. After Mr. Tucker's death, the church was under the ministerial charge of Rev. J. P. Stockton, now of West Unity, Ohio, for one year. Mr. Stockton was succeeded by the present pastor. Rev. B. W. Slagie, in August, 18G-!. Mr. Slagie served as stated supply until July 11, 1870, when he received a call to become the sctiled pastor, and, accepting the call, he was regular 1}- installed on the 11th of September, 1870, which position he still holds. During the present pastorate, tlie church has grown steadily in numbers and has enjoyed several precious revivals of religion, in one of which the [jastor was assisted by Rev. II. II. Wells, the resnk of which was an accession of about fifty |)ersons to the communion of tli<^ church.

The church building has undergone great modifications and improvements since its erection, the latest of which was made under the supervision of Mr. D. B. Turnbull, who constructed a recess at the rear of the church for the reception of a fine pipe organ, built by Steere & Turner, of Springfield, Mass. This addition also secured a study for the pastor, and an infant class room for the Sabbath school. - The audience room was also improved by the alteration of the windows, the papering of the walls and ceiling of the church, the introduction of new seats, carpeting, and heating apparatus, etc., until they now have as neat and tasteful a house of worship as they could desire. The church and congreo-ation are now in a flourishing condition, with a membership of at least 150 in good and regular standing, and a Sabbath school about equal in numbers.

The officers of the church consist of the following : Rev. Bernard W. Slagie, pastor ; Elders - Messrs. E. ]' Hooker, P. W. Colby, L. G. Thacker, M. D., Thomas R. Carroll ; Trustees - Messrs. I). 1>. Turnbull, George W. Dcatriek, Dr. L. G. Thacker, Thomas R. Carroll ; Mr. Krank G. Brown, le;i<ler of choir ; Dr. J. L. Scott, Clerk.

This sketch begins with the year 1841, at which time Defiance had a population of very nearly 300 inhabitants, when Father Rappj for the first time said mass and preached in Timothy Fitzpatrick's house. But one more Catholic family then lived in Defiance - Frank Weisenburger's. There were then living in Defiance also the following young men and ladies : Adam Wilhelm, Joseph Grossel, Jehu P. Downes, Michael Caldwell, Joseph and Michael Decker, Barbara Reikhard (now Mrs. Weisenburger), and two servant girls, Agnes King and Mary Myers. Father Rappe visited Defiance every year until he was chosen and consecrated Bishop of Cleveland, in the year 1847. After him. Father De Goesbriand, now Bishop of Burlington, Vt., came a few times to Defiance. From 1847 to 1849, Father Foley attended the mission from Toledo ; after Father Foley, Father Cessare, residing at Maumee, followed for about a year and a half In 1850, Defiance was made the center of its mission district, and Father Poliere was appointed the first residing pastor in Defiance, remaining about two years. In 1845, September 19, a lot 150 feet long and about forty-six feet front was donated and deeded by Horatio G. Phillips to I. B. Purvell (recorded Vol. I, 110, Purvell to Gilmour, Vol. II, 139). A frame church was built on it 22x30 feet. From 1841 to 185(1, the number of Catholics in Defiance Village did not increase much, but some families moved into Defiance Count}' and the neighboring counties, counting in all about fifteen famihes, some of whom joyfully crossed the woods twenty miles to occasionally assist holy mass and receive the holy sacraments. Their earnestness and zeal in practicing their religion, especiallj' also in their family circles, are best known by their descendants, who to-day appreciate their religion better by far than many a family that now come from the old country, imbued to a great extent with a spirit, to say the least, of indifference toward the church. But it must also be said that not a few of them, for want of a regular church service, have ceased to practice their religion altogether, and all their descendants can remember of it is that their parents used to be Catholics. The population of Defiance in 1859 was 890.

From 1850 on, the young Catholic folks married, and some families arrived to settle on farms, Ohio then being a State where land was cheap. In 1852, the Wabash Railroad was built through Defiance. About this time, the Futhcrs of tlie Most Preeious Blood, from ^liastcr. Auglaize County, took charge of the congregation. Thej' built a little frame house to the church for their residence, and another was erected for the Sisters of their order, who came to teach school. It is to be remarked that Deflauce, almost from its beginning, had a Catholic school, and always kept it up. In 1853, two more lots, each of the same size as the first one, were bought and deeded Ijy Horatio G. Phillips to Amadeus Rappe, (recorded Vol. A'l, oU). In the same j'ear, the congrega- Lion bought five acres of land for cemetery ground (now known as the old cemeterj-), from William Lewis (recorded Vol. IV, 1 58). The Fathers of the Most Precious Blood remained in charge of the congregation until October, 1855. We find the following names of them in the baptismal record : Patrick Plenneberj', Andreas Herbstritt, Eugelbert Roff and Jacob Kingsly. There were now about twenty-five families here. To them Father Westerholt, now rector of St. Peter's Church, Cleveland, succeeded. He remained untilJune, 1858. During his administration, the number of families fully doubled. The increase was especiallj' rapid in the village of Defiance itself, business men starting and beginning their enterprises. It became necessary to build a new church. Father Westerholt went to see his families, who verj' willinglj' subscribed for a new brick church, 35x75 feet. The old church in which the old settlers so joyfuUj' served their God was moved to the place it stands now, henceforth to receive the happy school children. It is said that one time when Father Westerholt was on his way to collect money for the erecting of the new church, he brought home $800 in money, many Protestants contributing. We cannot but improve the occasion to state that all along the Maumee Valley, especially in Defiance, there has always existed, and still exists, a commendable spirit of toleration between Protestants and Catholics. The church was soon under roof and paid for. Meanwhile the neighboring country become settled more and more by Catholics. Father Westerholt (as also his successor) visited Poplar Bidgc, North Ridge, Napoleon and Antwerp, to gather the families that had located near those places, in all of which priests now reside. He attended, besides, Junction, Delaware Bend, Mud Creek - small congregations that now are attended from Antwerp and North Ridge, and which now number from twenty to thirty and forty families. Father Westerholt was succeeded by Father HoefTel, who was rector of St. John's until January, 18(38. In 18G0, the population of Defiance was 1,625. For one year yet Father Hoeffel was to be pastor of St. John's and visit the abovenamed missions. But the Catholic population of Defiance and its next surroundings grew so strong that an assistant became necessary, and in 1859 Father Molony, now rector of St. Malachi's, Cleveland, came to divide the hard labors of Father Hoeff'el. The assistant priest resided in Defiance, and from here attended the missions until one mission after the other had a church and pastoral residence built, the missions now being entirely separated from Defiance. St. John's congregation rapidly increased by a coustant stream of immigration, and in 1868 it numbered about seventy-five families. In 1870, when the population of Defiance was 2,760, with very near one hundred Catholic families, Father Hoeffel finished the church. It was not merely plastered, but beautiful stucco work ornamented both sanctuary and the upper part of the walls ; there were beautiful pews, and a bell also was bought, and a pipe organ, at a cost of $1,000, which still serves at divine service, certainly better than any melodeon could do.

On March 28, 1863, several acres of land were bought for a new cemetery, deeded by Philip Smith to Amadeus Rappe (recorded Vol. XII, 90). In January, 1868, Father Hoeffel was appointed rector of St. John's, at Delphos, Ohio, and was succeeded by Father Rudolf. In August, 1869, Father Viers arrived and had charge of the congregation untd October, 1878, when the present pastor, Father Young, succeeded him. In 1870, the sisters of the convent of St. Agnes, Fond du Lac, Wis., took charge of the school, and have ever since worked faithfully in the education of the little ones. Very soon a new school room was built, and from that time on the school had two divisions. The congregation now growing very rapidly, the church became too small ; there was no room any more for new-comers. By a majorit}^ of a vote taken bj' the congregation in January, 1873, it was decided that the congregation was to be divided in two ; there should henceforth in Defiance be a German and an English congregation. The Germans bought the entire church property, paying over to the English congregation $5,000. , The English Catholics .were to have the use of their mother church yet for three yeai-s, to have fully time to build their new church, both congregations therefore holding divine service in the same church, but at a time separated for each. Shortly after the separation of the two congregations, the B. & 0. R. R. was being built. In 1873, the B. & 0. R. R. Company bought three and half acres of the Catholic cemetery for $1,500, and shortly after 1870 one factor3' after the other started, bringing new life and enterprise into Defiance. In ] 873, a new pastoral residence was built, which cost about S4,000, and is certainly one of the best in the diocese. When the beautiful new English church was built and furnished, and the Germans had now alone the possession of the mother church, it was as well filled b}' German Catholics alone as it was just a little before the separation. Indeed, so rapidly did the congregation grow larger and larger, that the church became again too small. In 1880, an addition was built to it, and when in that year the population of Defiance was 5,915, the German Catholic congregation had about 130 families. For the present, the church is large enough.

tion, and wliatsdcvc.r may be the wants of Cutiire times, the congregation is able and willing to meet tliem. The progress oC the temporal welfare of the Catholics during the time may be best illustrated by the following : In 1841, two of the above-mentioned young men, Adam Wilholm and Joseph (Irossell, were one Sunday afternoon sitting on the banks ol' the Maumee River, counting their money. Ailarn Wilhebu then called |5 his own, and J(jsei)h Grossell had a ([uarter more. Both of them are now grandfathers, the hitter still working at his carpenter's tradi', with a, very good properly, the former now owning one of the >)est flouring mills ui Ohio, and said to be the second richest man in Defiance.

( )ur Lady of Perpetual Help Congregation was opened in the year !S7:i. Up to that time, all Catholics in Defiance and the immediate viciniiy worshiped in St. John's Church. That edifice being no longer sufficiently large to accommodate the rapidly increasing Catholic population, at the suggestion of the- Rt. Rev. Richard Gilmour, Bishop of the Diocese of Cleveland, the members came together to decide by vote, either to erect a larger church edifice capable of aflbrding ample facilities for all to continue worshiping together as heretofore, or to divide and establish an exclusively Englishspeaking congregation. This latter proposition was the one agreed on, and accordingly the new church was commenced as soon as the necessary preparations were completed. A Building Committee of ten members was appointed, constituted as follows : Adam Wilhelm, John Crowe, J. B. Weisenburger, John Rowe, Michael Gorman, Joseph Haller, Gideon Blanchard, M. B. Gorman, Jacob Karst and A. A. Grant. The first step was to select a location, and soon afterward about an acre of land was purchased on the corner of Jefferson avenue and Arabella street. The new congregation not yet having received a priest of its own, the building committee were compelled to attend to all the details of providing i)lans for the church, excavating for foundation, raising funds, etc.. etc. By May, 1875, the building was sufficiently far advanced for the laying of the corner-stone, and so rapidly was the work of construction proceeded with that the new church was ready for divine service in January, 1 876. Rev. P. P. Mazuret was appointed pastor of the congregation in March, 1875, and remained in charge for twenty-two months. On the fourth of January, 1877, the present pastor. Rev. M. P. Kinkead, succeeded Rev. Mazuret. The sequel is best told in the words of the Rt. Rev. Bishop Gilmour, who visited Defiance November 10, 1878, to dedicate the church edifice and administer the sacrament of confirmation. Writing to the Cathilic Uni'rcrxc of Cleveland, he thus describes the church and his visit : dedicated at Defiance, the beautiful new church (Eng" lish) of Our Lady of Perpetual Help ; after mass, in the same church, he confirmed seventy-five well-prepared children.

" The Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Help is really a beautiful church, bespeaking not only much taste but great liberality on the part of the congregation. It is one hundred and thirty feet long by sixtywide, and high in |)roportion, with stained-glass windows, handsome pews, beautifully frescoed, etc. The lot is one of the finest in Defiance, with a neat parsonage and small schoolhouse. There is yet considerable debt, but with unity in the congregation, and careful management of the finances, the debt will be got through with. There is a good disposition among the people, and the pastor. Rev. Kinkead, has done exceedingly well since his appointment. The church and lot cost about iS35,000, and, when paid for, will be a monument to religion that both pastor and people may be justly proud of.

" There was an immense crowd, and the music was very good. This congregation of Our Lady was formed five years ago \>y dividing the St. John's congregation, thus making an English and German congregation. We would recommend as a model the terms of agreement entered into by the old congregation with the new, when thejr separated, and, what is better, the fidelity with which they were kept.''

The congregation, when organized, had a membership of some sixtjf-five families, many of whom were prominently identified with Catholic interests from the early daj's of Defiance. There are now about one hundred and twenty families.

The First Baptist Church Of Defiance, Ohio

The Rev. James French, a missionary sent out by the Baptist Convention of the State of Ohio, to labor in the western part of the State came to Defiance in the earljpart of the year 1R46, and held a series of meetings, hy which an interest was awakened in the minds of a few, and they were induced to make arrangements to organize a Baptist Church.

The first preliminary meeting for the organization. of which there is any record, was held at the residence of James Ward, February 19, 1S4-6, at which seven persons - James Ward, William Clark, Caroline Clark John Winfield, Jane Winfield, Sarah A. Goodson, and Mary A. Stilwell - entered into an agreement to proceed to organize a Baptist Church. On April 15, 1846, the above named, with a number of others completed the organization and called James Ward to be their pastor The next day, he was ordained to the work of the ministry by a council convened to recognize the church and to ordain the pastor. At a meeting of the church held May 16, 1846, William Clark was elected Deacon, and June 22 of the same year Amos Zellers was chosen Church Clerk. At this meeting, Vaey resolved to unite with lliu iMiiumeu Baptist Assoeiatioii, and instructed the clei'li to prei)are a letter to be presented to that bod}' at its next session, and appointed James Ward, William Clark, John Winfield and Amos Zellers delegates to the -association. At this time they reported twent^'-two members to the association. Mr. Ward remained with the church as pastor onl_y a few months, and the}' were without one for about a year and a half.

In May, 1848, Rev. H. P. Stilwell commenced laboring with the church one-half his time as pastor, and continued to do so till Blay, 1853. During his ministry, the church became an incorporate I)ody by a special act of the Legislature of the State of Ohio, passed March 22, 1850, with the corporate name of " The First Baptist Clmrchin the Town of Defiance " (see local laws of the State of Ohio, Vol. XLVIII, for 1848-50). It was also during his ministry they built the first house of worship ; it was dedicated May 2, 1852.

In the latter part of November, 1853, Rev. Amos Pratt became pastor, and remained till the next April. Soon after BIr. Pratt left the house was rented to the Board of Education for school purposes, and was used for such purposes about two years.

In March, 1855, Rev. William Branch settled as pastor and remained one year. In April of this year, Calvin B. West, by a council convened with the church, was ordained to the work of the ministry to labor as an Evangelist and soon after started to Oregon, but died on the way.

In May, 1857, Rev. J. C. Armstrong became pastor, and remained till December, 1858. During his ministry, the church enjoyed considerable prosperity and increased in numbers so that when he left it had forty-six members. For the next two years, the church had no pastor and made but little, if any, progress in growth or usefulness.

In December, 1860, Rev. J. 11. Barker became pastor, and remained till September, 1862. During his pastorate, the country was in high state of excitement caused by the Southern rebellion, and in consequence of this but little, if anything, was accomplished in church work. After Mr. Barker left, the church had no ministerial labor, but occasional visits from the associational missionary, till Marcii 1, 1866, when W. V. Thomas settled as pastor. At this time the church had but twentyone members, and only about half of them in town. It was poor, financially, and the house of worship very much out of repair. During his first year's labor, the house was repaired and refurnished, and some progress made. In 1869, the church enjoyed a precious revival, which resulted in an addition of about thirty members. There continued a steady growth in the membership and financial strength till the 1st of May, 1873, when Mr. Thomas resigned and left.

Von Putkamer became pastor and remained till August, 1876. During his pastorate, the parsonage was built, and some repairs made on the church property. After Mr. Von Putkamer left, the church was without a pastor till April, 1877, when W. V. Thomas, the present pastor, settled with the church the second time. At this time, the membership was reduced to about fifty, and a small debt upon the property. During the first year's labor, the debt was paid and some progress made. In the winter of 1879-80, the church enjoyed another revival, by which it received an addition of about thirtyfive members. The next year the house of worship was repaired and enlarged, and there has been a steady growth in numbers and etHciency up the present time. The present membership is one hundred, and a large proportion of them are young people.

The records of the church are defective in many particulars, and especially in giving the membership of the church from time to time, and their financial condition and progress. From the minutes of the Maumee Baptist Association, I learn the increase in membership has been slow. In their first report to that body, in 1846, they reported twenty-two members, and the increase the first ten years was only one, reporting twenty -three members to the association in 1866. The largest number of members reported any year during the first ten years was twenty-nine, in 1854. The increase during the second decade of their existence was two, reporting twenty-five members to the association in 1866, and the largest number reported any year during the decade was fortysix, in 1858. The increase during their third decade was thirty-one, reporting fifty-six members to the association in 1876. The largest reported any year during the decade was sixty-five, in 1871, and the same in 1872. The increase from 1876 to 1880 was forty-five, reporting 101 members to the association in 1880.

There has been received into the church by baptism, 124 ; by experience, 36 ; by letter, 126 ; unknown (that is, the record does not state how), 7, making a total of 293. Of this number, 107 have been dismissed by letter, 30 have died, 52 have been excluded, and 7 unknown (probably they have left the phice and their names dropped from the record), making a total of 196, leaving 97 members to-day, June 1, 1883.

German Methodist Episcopal Church

- The congregation of the German Methodist Episcopal Church of Defiance was formed in A. D. 1850, services previous to this being held in the school room. Defiance at that time was part of an extensive missionary field served by Methodist preachers. In 1857, Rev. Frederick Ruff, of the Central German Conference, was stationed on the West Unity Circuit, to which belonged many appointments. Defiance being one of them. The names of the official members of the M. E. Congregation at Defiance at this time were as follows ; Hermann Iding and A. Schmidt, Local Preachers ; Phillip ThorinSTORY OF DEFIANCE COUNTY.

loiter, Class Louder; 11. KuLlciirini;-, Trustee. The numlicr of members at that time wa.s flftcen, viz.: H- [(ling, A. Schmidt, A. Ketteiiriug, Frederick Gonrich, Margaret Schiilz, Fredcu-ielc Kalilo, John Hanzel and Carrie, iiis wile, (Jeorge Young and Eliza, his wife, Daniel Woli; Frederieli Guthniau, L'hilip Thorreiter, Mrs. Ocnrich and Mrs. UoU'man. The lour last named are dead. Tlie claims I'or tlie support of the minister were $200. Thi^ eliurcli, which was located on Wayne street, was built under the administration of the above named pastor in A. 1). 1857, at a cost of |7()(), and was (jaid for on the day of consecration. The lot cost!|300. The bell was presented afterward by the i'resl)ytorian congregation. Tlie parsonage was built in A. 1). 1860, under the administration of lie v. J. Braun, at a cost of ^300. At tlie present time (1888), J. Uoser is pastor in charge ; has a circuit ot two appointments - South Ridge and Deliance - with a membership of about 150 ; and the Sabbaih school numbers about the same, including scholars and teachers, and superintended by C. Krenkel and Frederick Demland. H. Tding, Daniel and FJias lloscr, Local Preachers ; Christopher Miller, Exhortcr ; 11. Thorreiter, Rudolph Dickmann and Frederick Demland, Class Leaders ; C. Geiger, Register ; William l[offmann, (Jeorge Young, Joseph Kahlo, Rudolph Dickmann and Frederick Demland, Trustees. The value of the church property at Deflanco, according to the minutes of the yearly conference in 1880, cliurch (frame) $2,000 ; parsonage (frame), $1,000.

Rev. Edward Winthroi), of Manmec City, held services in Deliance once a month for one yi;ar in 1857-58. Iiev. Mr. Jukes oUiinated here several times.

.May 1, 1S55, " (xrat'o Church " Parish was organized. The first vestry xvas Jacob J. Greene, John W. McKim, William Shelliold, Hciu-y M. Clark and Alexander Backus.

Services were again held in 1870, by Rev. A. X. Gorrell, then residing at Hicksville - at first once a month, and afterward on alternate Sundays, and with such eucouragemcnt that the present brick church, a lu-at, convenient and churchly building, was erected ; consecrated by .Bishop Bedell, assisted by a number of clergymen, April 11, 1878.

In addition to the above statement of facts connected with the growth and development of the F]piscopal Churcli in Defiance, it may be proper to add that during the year 1881 the trustees have erected upon the church lot, immediately under the shadow of the church, a large and convenient rectory, costing $4,000. The increase in the number of communicants indicates a just appreciation of the church and. her services. The zeal and earnestness of those who were the founders of the work richly deserve to be commended. The future of the parish is assured.

In the fall 1845 came Rev. August Friedrich Knape, of Port Wayne, Ind.,.to Independence, a small hamlet four miles below the town of Defiance, situated on the Maumee River. He, with his family, made the journey by canal-boat. He was then following a call from a small congregation near New Bavaria, in Henry County, Ohio, on the so-called South Ridge, several miles southeast of Defiance.

In the following years after Rev. Knape had settled down among his congregation, he was frequently called to Defiance from the few Ger.Tian Lutherans, who then resided in town and its vicinity, to preach to them the Gospel and perform such other rites as are customary in said church, as the baptizing of infants, etc. However, at this time a regular church could not be established yet, but there was a constitution drawn up and signed b}' man}' of those Lutherans who lived at the time in Defiance and vicinitj'.

The signatures are : A. F. Knape, their minister ; Martin Viebach, Valentine Stork and wife, Catharine Stork, B. Kornbaum and wife, Elizabeth Kornbaum, John Grass and wife, Barbara Grass, Frederick Stork, John Stork, Frank Roegner. Louis Bremer and wife, Barbara Bremer, Peter Bremer, Conrad Peter, Adam Bruman, Carl Voigt, Julius Dolke, George Hechler and wife, Catharine Hechler, Philip Stork and wife, Susanna Stork, Catharine i^linzlin, Maria Kornbaum, Elizabeth Koenig, Dorothea Schlagman, Sophia Hase, Elizabeth Bauman, Maria German, Rebecca German and Anna Eizabeth Thalen,

Many of the above named are not now living. It seems that this constitution was but of short duration, for as the document bears no date, it cannot be said, with certainty, at what time it was drawn up, but may be assumed that it was about the year 1849. The original of the same is retained in the congregation. Rev. Knape at this time served the congregation no more from the South Ridge as formerly, but from the North

Ridge in Adams Township, wliere be lived upon his farm situated near Ridgeville Comers. It also appears that Rev. Knape served said congregation no longer than the year 1850. It so happened that in 1850 several Lutheran families from the so-called " Altmark," in Prussia, arrived and settled at Defiance and the membership was thereby enlarged.

On the morning of the 19th day of August, 1850, at 9 o'clock A. M., the congregation convened. The members present were twenty-one in number, and there and then elected a board of trustees.

The persons elected were ; Christian Hess, with sixteen, and Martin Viebach, with sixteen votes, for Trustees, and A'alentine Stork, with thirteen, and Edward Kornbaum, with seventeen votes, for Elders. It is to be supposed that this was the first set of oiHcers that was ever elected in this congregation.

The congregation from this time on grew continually in number, so that in the year 1851 the members thereof called upon the Rev. Adam Detzer, at this time living in Williams County, Ohio, to pay them a visit and deliver a sermon, to which he responded. On the 29th day of Maj' in the same year. Rev. Detzer was, in a regular meeting, chosen by sixteen men to be henceforth their minister. This is reallj' the time from whence maybe dated the founding of a German Evangelical Lutheran Church in Defiance, Ohio.

After Rev. Detzer had accepted the call of the 29th day of May, 1851, he was, on the 3d day of August, 1851, solemnly installed (ordained) by Rev. Trautman, of Adrian, Mich.

On the morning when this important transaction should take place, the congregation had yet no place where to assemble. The schooliiouse west of the German Catholic Church, which was frequently used by them as its place of meeting, was at this time occupied by some other denomination and could not be had. Finally the members found an old house on Water street (nicknamed Smoky road) which was uninhabited, and in a short time it was furnished with the necessary seats, made of old boards, sufficiently to accommodate the congregation.

On the 24th day of liugust, 1851, shortly after the regular founding of said church, the voting memljers elected their first church council : namely, Valentine Stork, Charles Warneke, Isaac Frank, Martin Viebach, John (irass, Charles Kahlo, Sr., and Christian Iless.

As the congregation from this time on kept increasing, plans were resolved upon to find a place whereon to build a church, and in 1852 it was able to purchase a lot situated on the banks of the Auglaize River for S75. The lot was purchased of Mr. J. D. Phillips, of Dayton, Ohio. In the year 1S53, the members commenced alreadj- with the erection of a frame church, and the whole work went on favoraljly. The heavy timbers for the building were gratuitously furnished by members of the church. The contract for building the church was taken by D. Oliver. Rev. Detzer at this time lived in Fulton County, Ohio, among a Lutheran congregation, near Archibald, Ohio, and from thence tendered his services to both this and the one there, manj' a time traveling the long way of twentj'-oue miles on foot, in mud and water. The roads in those daj-s were anything but good, and were almost impassable, so that toward the end of June, 1853, he moved to 'Defiance. From this time on he was a resident of Defiance till the spring of 1873.

Early in the summer of 1854, the church was completed, which is a building forty-five feet long by thirtyone feet wide, and on the 9th day of July, 1854 - a verj' pleasant summer day - it was solemnly dedicated to the service of God. Prof Cramer, then living in Fort Wayne, conducted the services in the morning before a crowded house, and Rev. Detzer preached in the evening of the same daj'. The author remembers very well the services of the day, and the singing of hymns of praise and thanksgiving by the congregation, accompanied by a band of musicians. It was a daj- not to be forgotten in the history of a church.

The congregation, in its efforts of building this church, was aided by many American friends, and likewise by its Catholic neighbors, among whom are noted Messrs. C. H. Ronton, W. C. Holgate, J. J. Greene, W. A. Brown, E. F. Lindenberger, Frank Weisenburger, Adam Wilhelm and many others.

The congregation at this time had many difficulties to compete with, for manj' of its members were, with the exception of a few, new beginners, and, it may be said, poor. Many of them had enough to do to supply themselves with their necessaries. Rev. Detzer traveled around in a circuit by Fort Waj'ne and made collections among his Lutheran friends. Finallj' this was all overcome, with the help of God, and in the year 1856 the congregation built a parsonage. Rev. Detzer took possession of his new quarters on the 8th day of September, 1856.

On the 1 2tli day of May, 1856, the congregation convened in its new church, and on motion of Mr. August Dolke, Mr. John Buehneman was appointed chairman of the meeting. After Mr. Dolke had made known the object of said meeting, its members adopted a constitution in conformitj' with the laws of the State of Ohio. The principles laid down in said document have been . adhered to by the congregation until this day, as a guide to regulate its affairs.

The name given to this church in the constitution is " St. John's Church" of the German Evangelical Lutheran St. John's Congregation unaltered Augsburg Confession, of Defiance and vicinity.

The names of those that signed this document are ; Adam Detzer, Secretary ; Jo) n Buehneman, President ; Wolfgang Rocdel, Julius Dolke, John Buehneman, Martin Wiebach and Charles Warneke, Trustees. In addition thereto, it is signed by a few other members, as

In tiic yuar 18G() or ISCI, the church was furnished with a nice bfll. whose cliiuic lias called many a Christian to the services, and to many already dead it has tolled their last farewell.

in the fall of 18G4, the congregation was strong enough to i)nt a pipe-organ in its church. The organ cost $1136, and was built by a man in Chicag(j by the nam(i of Wolfruni. It is an excellent piece of work, and when its tunes acconii)any the congregation singing its beautiful liynins, the hearts are drawn upon high.

In the year 18G7, the congregation bought a piece of [iroperty containing four lots, situated in one the handsomest locations of the town, from Mr. II. C. Bouton, for $800, which was finally paid for by the remaining members. Since the 1st day of June, 1867, these lots are the propcrt}' of this congregation.

The congregation at this time may be said to have been in its greatest bloom; when, all at once, Satan cast his seeds of discontent into its midst. In the beginning, these difiiculties, existing principally between Rev. Detzer and a few members, were mutually settled ; but the old enemy was not satisfied therewith, until, by and l)y, the matter took such a shape that it became necessary to call upon the Revs. Sihler and Stubnatzi, of Fort Wayne, to act as arbitrators.

Revs. Sihler and Stncbnatzi accepted the invitation, and the investigation took place in Februarj', 1870. The meeting commenced early in the afternoon, many members being present, and continued till after midnight, without anj- favorable result. The consequence was> tliat many, being dissatisfied, separated from the old congregation and are so till this daj'. From this time on there existed two Crcrman Lutheran congregations in Defiance ; the old one, incorporated with the Missouri Synod, and the new one, after there came a minister from the Iowa Synod, hold to the last named.

Now, tlie old congregaliion was greatly' reduced in number, but in a short time received strength again, so that in the same year (1870) it commenced building a brick schoolhouse. The house was completed the same year, and cost $1,15:), whicli is paid a long time ago.

Iu'\'. Petzer tendered his services not alone to the congregation in Defiance, but also to one on the South Ridge, and a few others somewhere else, so that many times he had to be absent. The congregation of Defiance beginning to insist upon having regular services ex'cry Siuiday forenoon, and he being all alone, could not very well do it. It was now resolved by both congregations to call for an assistant, and the two sbonld preach alter nately. The synod, who was called upon to send an assistant suitable for this post, sent an excellent young man by the name of W. T. B. Langc. He arrived about the 20th of August, 1871, and accepted the position unilermany congratulations from the congregation.

soon there were also two parties. One part preferred Rev. Detzer, the other Rev. Lange, and as Rev. Detzer. being the oldest minister, claimed the preference in administering the customary rites of said church, Rev. Lange felt himself degraded.

It became necessary that the ballot should decide which of them should have the miuistr}- in Defiance. On the 23(1 da}' of June, 1872, at a regular meeting, the ballots were cast, and Rev. Lange was elected by seven majority. At the close'of this same meeting, the discontented members gave vent to their dissatisfaction, and blamed the congregation in general, that Rev. Detzer was not treated in a Christian-like manner, whereupon Rev. Lange revoked the transaction, and afterward accepted a call from a congregation at Valparaiso, Ind., who had called upon him prior to this njeeting.

The congregation of Defiance had now no minister at all. Rev. Detzer being voted out, and Rev. Lange would not accept the position. This was the close of Rev. Detzer's labors in Defiance, after toiling faithfully in this congregation over twentj'-one years. Rev. Detzer was asked to serve the congregation till the following September.

Immediately after this perilous meeting, on the 23d day of June, 1872, the congregation requested Rev. Stubnatzi, in Fort Wayne, to propose a minister suitable for this post. Rev. Stuebnatzi proposed Prof. R. Lange, of Fort Wayne, and who was, on the 14th of July, 1872, called upon. Rev. R. Lange accepted the call, and in September, 1872, was installed liy Rev. Stuebnatzi. The rejoicings wore now without bounds, to have a minister whose services should be exclusively tendered to this congregation ; but it did not continue long, for on the self-same day, when installed, after services were closed, he presented a call from Cincinnati to the congregation. It was not hearkened to; however, it was a poor omen. After this, he received other calls from other places, off and on, so that finally the congregation resolved to let him off. He was the minister of this place for the short period of three months.

At a meeting on the 17th of November, 1872, the members resolved to call upon Rev. C. F. Steinbach; he, however, for reasons of his own and his congregation, did not accept the call.

On the 8th day of December, 1872, the members convened again, and this time resolved to call upon Rev. G-. M. Zucker, of Proviso, Cook Co., 111. Rev. Zucker accepted the call, and, about the middle oj' January, 1873, he arrived with his family in Defiance. On the second following Sabbath, he was installed bj- Rev. Lehner. Rev. Zucker has been its pastor, at this writing, over eight years, and God grant that he may serve them many more years.

;i suitable person to teach its school. It was supplied with a young man by the name of August Krueger. He was yet youug and seemed to have had but little or no experience in teaching and of governing a school, and us he was otherwise of a reckless nature, faults were found, and in the spring of 1874 he handed in his resignation. The congregation at first seemed to object to his resignation, Ijut after some deliberation, granted the same. Since that time it has had no teacher, and Hev. Zucker both superinteuds and teaches said school.

The congregation, under constant growth, now counts about 100 voting and other members, and thinks itself strong enough to erect a new brick church on one of its four lots. The necessary funds thereto will be raised by subscription among its own members. How large and in what style it shall be built is not yet decided.

The author in closing this sketch expresses his sincere desire that the growth of this congregation may continue; that the pure word of God may be preached therein in all times to come; and that finally, each and ever}' one, as theu' time will arrive, may land in yonder world, where bliss is everlasting.

The pioneer work in this congregation was done by Rev. J. 0. viccola in the year 1861, when the services were conducted in the old court house. In 1862, a formal organization was effected, when the followingpersons joined the newly formed congregation ; Christopher Krcbs, Frank Young, Jacob Mueller, Jacob Widmer, Ludwig and John Spangler, J. Geiger, John Hiester, Mrs. M. Mueller, IMrs. Heatley, Miss Mary Gorman, etc. In 1864, A. B. Koplin took charge of the congregation in connection with another one northwest of Defiance, who was succeeded bj' the Rev. H. Daniel in 1866, who from this place engaged in missionary work in I'aulding Count}', Ohio, and succeeded in organizing a congregation in Junction.

During this period, difficulties arose which materially retarded the progress of the congregation, and in 1S67 Rev. H. Daniel resigned. Then the congregation remained for years without a pastor. Quite a number of members joined other denominations ; others moved away, and the congregation consequentl}' decreased to a small numl.ier. At this time of discouragement, the following few are among the number who were zealous and fiuthful : Frank Young, Abraham Baum, Rudolph Mueller, John Hicster, Ludwig and John Spangler, Daniel and John Widmer, Mrs. M. Mueller, etc., and in spite of discouragements this little flock undertook the building of a house of worship, in the year 1869, on the corner of Fourth and Washington streets. They had no settled minister at this time, but were supplied from time to time by the Rev. H. Wcgert, from New Bavaria,

Henry Co., Ohio. In 1871, the congregation succeeded in building a parsonage. In 1873, the congregation again called a regular pastor. Rev. J. B. Poerner, who remained about a year, and was followed by the Rev. C. Pluess, who resigned August 1, 1875, and the church and parsonage were again left empty and the flock again had no leader, a heavy debt also resting upon the church, which the few faithful ones were unable to pa3^ Accordingly the congregation (with the consent of Classis) sold the parsonage, with the lot, having fortyfour feet front, to William Lauster, for the sum of $1,- 205. Now things looked less cheerful than ever before. Once more an empty church, no parsonage and no minister, even the few faithful ones began to lose courage, and became unwilling to further lend a helping hand. The Rev. D. Zimmerman, at that time missionary agent of the Synod of the Northwest of the German Reformed Church, visited the congregation on his missionary tour now and then ; also Rev. N. Wiers, of Now Bavaria, Henry Co., Ohio, both of whom did all in their power by way of admonition and persuasion to hold at least a few. Finally a suitable man was found for the field, August 1, 1876, in the person of A. K. Heineman, from the theological seminary of the mission house at Franklin, Sheboygan Co., Wis. With an audience of eight persons at public service, he began his labors in this, his first field. On the 8th daj' of August, 1876, Student A. K. Heineman was licensed to preach at a special meeting of Classis, and on the 23d of August of the same year he was ordained to the Gospel ministry by the Revs. C. Schaaf, A. Bolinger, N. Wiers and Elder H. Tons. Meanwhile, the young pastor was steadily at work, and many of the scattered sheep came back again, so that on the 15th day of June, 1878, a second new, well-appearing parsonage stood complete, and that, too, without debt, so that the church property is now worth about $3,000. At this writing the number of communicant members has already increased to fortj', and the Sunday school has some twenty scholars Rev. Heineman has, besides this city congregation, three others in the country, viz.: In Florida, Henry Co., Ohio ; Sherwood, Defiance Co., Ohio ; and Junction, Paulding Co., Ohio. The whole charge consists of 203 communicant members and 80 Sundaj' school scholars. The members are mainly Swiss, Hessians, and from the region of the Rhine. Preaching is only in the German language. The charge belongs to Zion's Classis, and this to the German Reformed Synod of the Northwest of the Reformed Church in the United States, Thus far the Lord has prospered and blessed. May He further direct and sustain this little flock. Deo gloria, soli sit!

English Lutheran Ohuuch

The Evangelical Lutheran St. Paul congregation was organized at the close of the year 1870. There were about twenty voting members present at the organization, among whom were the following ; J. C.

Scliultz, P. Schultz, J. Martin, A. Martin, A. Dolke, A. Bebringcr, C. Brede, H. Hardegan, F. Wolfrum, M. Schultz, etc. Its flrst pastor, J. Dcindoerfer, who is still in charge of the congi'cgation, is a member of the Gorman Lutheran Synod of Iowa and other States (Eastern District). Soon after its organization, the congregation purchased tliree lots on the corner of Clinton and Arabella streets, in front of the Union Scliool Park, for $1,200 ; then erected a small building for the purpose of a parochial school and made preparations for a house of worship. Of this, the corner-stone was laid the summer of 1871, and the edifice, a solid brick building, 30x60 feet, witli a spire in front about ninety feet high, was finished and dedicated in February, 187;^, costing about $(),000. During the summer of 1873, the congregation built a parsonage near tlie church. The congregation has lost several of its members by death, but is steadily increasing in numbers, and has now about IK) comnuinicants, and of their families and other members about '2M souls. Rev. J. Deindoerfcr, present pastor.

Th(^ society now known as the Defiance County Bible Society, auxiliary to the American Bible Society, was organized in 1831 - fifty -two years ago - when Defiance was a small village, situated along the north and south banks of the Maumee Kiver, from the foot of Clinton street east on Front street to Jefferson. There were only two liouses at that time west of the canal, and no improvements south of Second street, and the population of the town could not have exceeded 150 persons. The records of the organization of the society are so imperfect that the names of the first officers of the society are lost. The little band of earnest Christian men and women who first formed the society, fifty-two years ago, to spread the Word of G-od and supply the Scriptures to the destitute pioneers of the northwestern part of the State, appears to have done its work well. As far as can be learned, there is not one living today to recount to us the scenes of the past, while the little village of Defiance has grown into a city of nearly 7,000 inhabitants, and the surrounding country, which was almost a trackless wilderness, is now filled with happy Christian homes.