Defiance Township (part 7 of 11)

Nathaniel M. Blair was born March 28, 1843, on the farm on which he now resides.in Delaware Township, distant about two miles from the village of Sherwood. Here he has always lived on the old homestead and now owns the same, havino- boucfht out the other heirs. He was married Novem lier y, 1805, to Miss Emily Jane Tharp, who was born in Farmer Township, April 17, 1842, and daughter of Elisha Tharp, one of the first pio- neers of Farmer Township, who is the oaly person now living in that township who voted at its organization for its first officers. The fruit of this marriage has been four children, viz. : Clarence D., born Julj^ 5, 1867; Elsie L., born July 17, 1869, died December 9, 1877; Leota E., born January 6, 1871; Annie S., born February 7, 1876. Mr. Blair's grandfather, Joseph Blair, came from near Detroit to this county in the spring of 1817, and was a squatter at Defiance until the land sales, when he entered the farm on which Stephen Harsey now resides, on the banks of the Maumee at which place he died 1824, aged about eighty -five years. He was in the war of 1812. Peter Blair (father of Nathaniel) was born February 13, 1808, near Detroit, and came to this county with his parents when a boy of nine years, and grew up on his father's farm. In November, 1834, he was married to Miss Betsey Hughs, by whom he had four children, three boys and one girl, viz.: Mary A., Joseph, Nathaniel L. and Benjamin F.; of these, two are dead; Joseph died in infancy, Benjamin F. died November 27, 1880. Mary A., married Thomas Gordon, now deceased, lives in Marks Township. Mr. B. settled on the farm now occupied by his son Nathaniel, in 1845 or 1846. His first purchase was ten acres, upon which he built a log-cabin then pm-chased from time to time in addition thereto, amounting to 243 acres. While living in his cabin on the river bottom in times of a freshet, when the river overflowed its banks and the water came rushing around his cabin, the family were obliged to take refuge in the loft until the waters subsided. The sudden rise of the river often caught his hogs napping in their pens or in the field, and on such occasions Mr. B. had to get into his log canoe and paddle around and rescue them as best he could. There was then abundance of fish in the river and game of all kinds in the woods, deer in droves, turkej's in large flocks, bears were plenty and sometimes quite troublesome among the shoats. Mr. B. kept no gun (a rare circumstance for those days) and very often had to go out accompanied by his little dog and with club in hand, club them away. Indians were numerous, but peaceable and friendly. Mr. B. never had any trouble with them except on one occasion, when he caught one of their dogs committing some depredation and Mr. Blair killed him. The Indian threatened the life of Mr. Blair and was armed with a large knife. In the altercation, Mr. Blair gave the Indian one kick which ended the controversy in the death of the Indian, for which Mr. Blair was obliged to pay |32. In the year 1847, Mr. Biair married "for his second wife, Miss Sarah Gordon, of this county, and to them were born the following children - Thomas J., Peter, George, Nancy, Laura, Harriet, Evaline and America. Mr. Blair died on his farm, December 27, 1870, aged sixty-two years. Nathaniel L. thinks' the first schoolhouse built in the township was built on this farm about the year 1850, and the first teacher was one Mr. Fay, now residing at Bryan, Williams County, Ohio. Preaching was held at private residences and schoolhouses until quite recently.

James M. Smith. The subject of this sketch was born in Crawford County, Ohio, December 24, 1850, and the next year, A. D. 1851, his parents, James and Mahala (Tucker) Smith, moved to this county and to Delaware Township, Section 30, and took up this farm on which James M. now resides, and to accomplish which Mr. Smith was obliged to cut the road for several miles, this section being at that time a dense forest, and for a number of years they were obliged to go to Defiance for their milling and to do their trading. Mr. S. was born A. D. 1811, in Virginia, and died February 17, 1875, aged sixtyfour years. His wife died February 21, 1861, aged forty-three years nine months and eleven days. James M. Smith was married April 13, 1876, to Miss Lucy C. Wilson, daughter of Hezekiah and Sarah (Markel) Wilson, who was born in Defiance County, May 5, 1853. They have one child living - Ellen Adella, who was born March 25, A. D. 1879.

Moses M. Haver was born in Harrison County, Ohio, September 5, 1842, and came to this county, November 8, 1853, with his parents, Robert Haver and Mary (Cree) Haver. He was married in Paulding County, January 11, 1872, to Miss Mary Musselman, daughter of John and Eliza (Clemens) Musselman, who was born in Defiance October 28, 1840. They have a family of five children, as follows: Emily, born April 18, 1870; lona, born November 12, 1872; Albert, born November 26, 1874; John, born December 28, 1875, Curtis, born November 24, 1879. Mr. Haver was a soldier in the late war, 1861-65, being among the first to enlist at the breaking-out of the rebellion, enlisting April 27, 1861, in the three months' service as a private in Company I, Twentyfirst Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Afterward enlistedin the One Hundredth Regiment as Sergeant and served to the close of the war, 1865, and was hon - orably discharged.

E. T. Smith -was born in Clark County, Ohio, April 12, 1837. His father came from Maryland to Clark County in 1806, and from there to Paalding County in 1850, at which place he died Febrti'ary 22, 1870. His mother's maiden name was Catharine Brendle. Mr. Smith was married to Sarah S. Wheaton, in Paulding County, December 23, 1860. Her parents were William Wheaton and Sarah (Hall) Wheaton. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have no family of their own, bitt they have an adopted son, Freddie A.

Smith, bom October 27, 1870. Mr. Smith was in the war of the rebellion for a short time, having enlisted in Company I, Forty-seventh Eegiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, September 8, 1864, and served till June 13, 1865. His paternal grandfather was in the war uf 1812. Mr. S. is now engaged in the milling business at Sherwood, Delaware Township, the firm being Boor & Smith.

Simon P. Shook was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, July 12, 1822 settled in this ooimty in 1854; was married in Crawford County, July 6, 1854, to Catharine Miller, who was born in Harrison County, Ohio, March 9, 1830. They have had a family of seven children, as follows: Mary Ophelia, born November 7, 1854; John V., bom October 4, 1856; Francis Marion, born October 1, 1858; Ada Adelia, bom April 14, 1861 ; and died June 1, 1862; Ulysses Grant, born March 27, 1863; Oscar How^ard, born February 25, 1867; and E'auerson Wilbur, born September 3, 1871. Mr. Shook enlisted as a private in the late war of 1861-65, but failed to pass the necessary examination and was discharged at Cleveland, Ohio, November, 1863. Mr. Shock's parents, John and Mary (Grogg) Shook, were early pioneers of Ohio, immigrating from Pennsylvania to Columbiana County in 1804, afterward removing to Richland County, and from there to Crawford County, then to Williams County, in 1845 or 1846. Botii died in Williams County. Mrs. Shook' s parents, David Miller and Mary (Shuss) Miller, settled iu this county in 1865, and here her mother died September 17, 1866.

David Benton Brown was born in Morrow County, Ohio, April 17, 1852, is the second son of Thomas and Rachel Brown, who were bom, the former in Knox County, Ohio, in 1812, the latter was born in the State of Maryland, 1S22. They had a family of seven children, three sons and four daughters. One of the girls is dead, the remaining three, and the eldest son, reside near Bradner, Wood County, Ohio. The youngest son is principal of the Northern Indiana Normal School, located at Valparaiso, Ind. The early days of David, the subject of this sketch, were spent on a farm and attending district school, until lie was eighteen years of age, when he attended the Normal School at Republic, in Seneca County, passino- through a preparatory course of studies, after which he followed teaching for two years. In 1871, he took up the study of medicine at Freeport, in Wood County, Ohio, under N. W. Goodrich, M. D., and read with him until the winter of 1873, when he took his first course of lectures at the Physio-Medical Institute of Cincinnati for the terra of five months, after which time he again returned to Freeport and formed a partnership with his early preceptor, Dr- Goodrich, and practiced with him and tended drug store until the winter of 1875, when he took his second course of lectures at Cincinnati, graduating on the 23d day of February, 1S76, when he returned home considerably broken down in health from too much confinement, and was not able to go immediately into practice and face the' storms and hardships of the physician's life. During the summer of 1876, he took a tour through the West; then returned and located at Bradner, Wood County, remaining there until July, 1879, when he removed to Sherwood, Defi anee County, his present location, where he is doing a very fair practice.

Henry Funk was born in Zanesvillo. Ohio, June 17, 1816; was married in 1845 to Miss Elsa Nolan, of Allen County- Ohio, to whom were born ten children - George, Margaret, Sarah, Dosson, Andrew, Adam, Alfred, Lavina, Lncinda and Maretta; two of this number are dead, George and Dosson. Mr. Funk settled in Delaware Township, Section 3, in February, 1845, and had to out the road some distance through the woods to get to the place he had chosen for his future horae. Mr. F. cleared off a small patch upon which to erect his cabin, and he and his wife put xip the first five rounds. His wife's father (Samuel Nolan) and two sons, John and Jacob, and another young man, came up from Allen County, and with the assistance of neighbors within traveling distance and the help of liis wife, he succeeded in getting up his cabin. Mr. F. says had it not been for the help from Allen County they could not have got it up, so few and far between were his neighbors at that time. He then underbrushod and partly cleared up about two acres in time for corn-planting, by leaving a portion of the standing timber, and raised a very good crop, which was his main support for the first year. The forest abounded with all kinds of wild game, and there was no lack for meat. Mr. F. was quite a hunter in his younger days, and visited this section of country on a hunting expedition when about eighteen years of age, and fell in with Conrad Slough and others at or near Defiance. Mr. F,. on one occasion shot .a bear near his house that was dragging a hog of the weight of about 200 pounds through the woods, and thinks he must have captured it in the neighborhood of Bean Creek, dis tant four or five miles.

Mr. Funk's parents, Jacob and Nancy (Bush) Funk, came from Virginia to Ohio and settled in Fairfield County. Mi's. Funk was born in Pennsylvania, and died on this farm, February 5, 1874, aged forty. eight years. Her parents were Samuel and Rebecca (Burnfield) Nolan.

Orlando Coffin was bom in Defiance County, March 12, 1848. He is the only sm-viving member of a family of foui' children - George Coffin, bom March

10, ISnO, died Jannary 29, 1875; John M., bom April 14, 1852, died January 21, 1875; Emily, born Mar,^i 12. 181G, died July 24, 1873. The parents of this family, Gilbert and Elizabeth Coffin, were natiyi's of New York, and died, the former in 1875, the latter in 1874. They settled in Defiance County in 1840. The subject of this sketch was married, November 2, 1875, to Minerva Musselman, who was born in Paulding County, Ohio, April 14, 1851. Her parents, John and Eliza (Wilson) Musselman, were born, the former in Virginia, the latter in Ohio, both residents of Paulding County, Section 31, where Mrs. Musselman died. Mr. Musselman still survives.

Jacob Platter, with Nancy, his wife, and children, came to Deiiance County, from the southern part of Ohio, about the year 1824. They had four sons - Jacob, Jr. , Louis, George and John, and four daughters - Betsy, Anna, Hannah and Mary. Jacob Platter, Sr., was killed by an accident while building a flat boat on the Maumee River, Louis was the only one of the family of children that settled in Delaware Township, in then Williams, now Diliance County. He was married I'ebrnary 24, 1831, to Elizabeth Gordon, of the same township. They had two sons. Oliver and William, and three daughtoi's, Caroline, Harriet and Mary, ^\'illiam enlisted in the Fourteenth iienijnent Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and dii'd July 21, 1802, at Corinth, Miss. Louis Platter was born March 1, 1799, and died July 21 1842, Of the children, but two are now living - Oliver is now in Washington Territory, and Harriet Dysinger is still living in the county.

George C. Armstrong was born February 18, 1 820, in. Connecticut. His mother died when he was a small boy. His father, Lee Armstrong, married again, and when George was about eight years of age, 1834, they took their departure for the West, and settled in Noble Township, Ohio, on what is now known as the Charle.s Krotz farm, on the Tiffin River, near Brunersburg, where Mrs. Armstrong died ia February, 1835. Soon after the death of his stepmother, the children were bouud out. George 0. was bound to Peter Lilair, of Delaware Township, with whom he lived till he was seventeen, when he compromised with Mr. Biair for his time, and, penniless, started out in the world to shift for himself, his father having moved to Indiana, where he dicil in 1850, aged about sixty-one years. Mr. ^Vi-mstroiig the subject of this sketch, by his industry and economy, soon saved enough to purchase a team of horses and a threshing machine. This was his first investment, and in a short time he made a purchase of sixty acres of choice land from Christopher Platter, in Section 31, Delaware Township, of fine bottom land on the Maumee River, on which he now lives and to which he has continued to add acre by acre, until he has now about 000 acres in a body, in Delaware and Mark Townships, with a fine farmhouse and large, commodious bank barn, and now, at the age of about fifty-seven years, is surrounded with all the comforts of life, the result of industry and economy, Mr. Armstrong was married to Miss Blary Platter in October, 1851, who died in 1853. He was married again, November 20, 1854, to Miss Caroline Platter, a relative of his first wife. The fruits of this marriage were Harriet, William, Eda, Elizabeth, John and Edward. The two latter died when about four or five years of age. Harriet married Stewart Miller, of Sherwood; William, the oldest and only son living, remained at home helping carry on the farm. He \ was married to Miss Bell Simpson, of Delaware Township, and has one child - George Armstrong, born January 1, 1882. Mrs. Caroline Armstrong died Augast 20, 1871. Married for his third wife Parmelia Simpson, November 24, 1870, with whom he is still living. She is the eldest daughter now living of William Travis, deceased, and was born in what is now Delawai'e Township, January 10, 1830, and is })robably the oldest woman now living that was born in the township. Mr. Armstrong thinks there is no doubt as the to old Indian orchard in Delaware " Bend " being the result of seeds planted by old Johnny Appleseed, and was set out oi- replanted by Montgomery Evans and a Frenchman by the name of Lumbard. Evans and Lumbard owned the farm. Lumbard was d owned and Evans became its possessor. Mr. Armstrong says the early settlers along the Maumee River in Delaware Township were ^Villiara Travis, George W. , John, Daniel and Thomas Hill, Mr. Mulligan, Thomas Warren, George Snook and brothers, James Shirley, Montgomery Evans, Samuel Hughes, Joseph Miller, Lewis Platter, George Platter and Guy Hamilton. Mr. Armstrong says the first school was on the west end of his farm, taught by one Smith, in 1828, as he was informed by Peter Blair, to whom he was bound as heretofore spoken of. His farm is watered by Maumee River on the south, G<ndon Crciok and Platter Creek, these creeks deriving their names from William Gordon and Jacob Platter, who were the fir.st peisons to settle at or near the mouth of each.

Source changes here: from History of Defiance County, Ohio, by Various, published 1883; 75,327 words in this source stream.

Defiance Township

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EFIANCE was laid out in November, 1822, by Benjamin Leavell, of Piqua, and Horatio G. Phillips, of Dayton. The plat was acknowledged April 18, 1823, and reeorded April 28, 18238, by Thomas R.MeKnight, Recorder of Wood County. The original plat embraced 150 lots, and was located at the confluence of the Maumee and Auglaize, with Jackson street on the west and Fourth street on the south. The square in which the court house now stands was reserved by the proprietors to be laid out into town lots, unless the town became a county seat, "and forever continue to be," when it was to be used for public buildings. 'The " Old Fort Grounds" was a public donation on the same condition. The square between Jackson and* Perry streets, and south of Fourth was a donation for a Methodist Church and burying-ground, and the square betweeu Washington street and the Auglaize River, and south of Fourth, for a Presbyterian Church. H. G. Phillips, one of the proprietors, never resided at Defiance. He was a son of a Revolutionary officer, and one of the earliest settlers of Dayton, Ohio, an extensive land-holder and & man of unblemished character. He died at his home in Dayton, November 10, 1859. Benjamin Leavell became a resident of Defiance, and wus its first innkeeper; he also kept the first store to supply white settlers. The store was located on the banks of the Maumee, at the foot of Jefferson street. His dwelliny, the first frame building in the village, was a one and a half story, erected in December, 1822, on the northwest corner of Water and Jefferson streets opposite the fort grounds. The lumber for it was sawed at the Brunersburg Mill, which had been built the winter previous. : Mr. Leavell's residence is still standing. In a few years, he sold his interest in the town to Curtis Holgate, of Utica, N. Y., and returned

The site of Detiance was already occupied when the village was platted. Situated as it was in the . heart of a populous Indian nation, it was the location of many a French trader long before permanent settlements were made by white men. Oliver M. Spencer, of Cincinnati, who was held a prisoner here in 1792, thus describes the place as it appeared:

"On the high ground, extending from the Maumee a quarter of a mile up the Auglaize, about two hundred yards in width, is an open space, on the west and south of which are oak woods, with hazel undergrowth. Within this opening, a few hundred yards above the point, on the steep, high bank of the Auglaize, are five or six cabins and log houses, inhabited principally by Indian traders. The most northerly, a large hewed-log house, divided below into three apartments, is occupied as a warehouse, store and dwelling by George Ironsides, the most wealthy and influential of the traders on the point. Next w his are the houses of Pirault (Pero), a French baker, and McKenzie, a Scot, who, in addition to merchandising, follows the occupation of a silversmith, exchanging with the Indians his brooches, ear-drops and other silver ornaments at an enormous profit, for skins and furs. Still further upare several other families of French and English, and two American prisoners, Henry Ball, a soldier, taken at St. Clair's defeat, and wife, and Polly Meadows, captured at the same time, are allowed to live here, and by labor to pay their masters the price of their ransom, he by boating to the Rapids of the Maumee, and she by washing and sewing. Fronting the house of Ironsides, and about fifty yards from the bank, is a small stockade, inclos-

Defiance was, before Gen. Wayne's time, and for some time after, a place for Indian consultations and payments, and was to them a place of great importance. It washeld by the British down nearly to the war of 1812, and it was here that they made much mischief by tampering with the semi-hostile tribes. It is stated that at one of the Indian gatherings, about 1810, as many as fifty traders were here, hav-

Broken at intervals, by the erection of Fort Defiance in 1704 by Gen. Wayne, and ,by the erection of Fort Winchester in 1812, the French and Indian traders continued to dwell in cabins here, and barter

In 1819, William Travis, a pioneer of Noble Township, visited Fort Defiance, and found here seven cabins, oceupied by French traders. A few Americans were also here. In old Fort Winchester, John and William Preston were living. The former had married a daughter of Judge Ewing, of Troy, Miami Co., Ohio, and died soon after Mr. Travis came. John Driver, a silversmith, and family were here; his brother Thomas was also an early resident. Both moved farther west as emigrants began to people this vicinity. John Perkins, in 1819, lived at "Camp No. 3," a skort distance below Independence. Of the French cabins, three stood in the point, near the old fort, two where the canal enters the Maumee, and two on the opposite side of the river. Peter Lumbard kept one of the trading houses on the point; L. A. Clair and Peter Bellaire occupied the cabins on the hill. In 1822, two Indian trading stores were kept, one north of the Maumee, on the hill owned by the Hollisters, of Perrysburg, and operated by Peter Bellaire and George Lance; the other owned by the Ferrys, of Michigan. It stood on the banks of the Maumee near the foot of Clinton street. Both these stores were removed from Defiance about 1823. William Preston, who was a soldier at Fort Winchester in 1812 is regarded as the first white permanent settler at Fort Defiance. He married a Miss Butler, whose brothers lived about eight miles below, on the Maumee. He was a farmer by occupation, intelligent, sober and industrious. He removed to St. Joseph Township, Williams County, where he died about 1828. Arthur Burris was the first blacksmith; his shop stood near the old apple tree north of the Maumee. Robert Shirley, with his family, came to Fort Defiance in the spriag of 1821. The recollections of his daughter, Mrs. Ruth Austin, may be found in this volume. Dr. John Evans came in 1823. In 1824, he brought a large stock of goods from Maumee City. and opened the first extensive store. Foreman and Albert Evans also came that year. The village grew slowly. In 1825, it contained a small store, a tavern and five or six families. Among these were those of Robert Wasson. James Craig Timothy S. Smith and Isaac and David Hull. Isaac Hull kept a store on the north side of the Maumee, and did an oxtensive trade with the Indians. P. C. Parker came in 1827; he kept a trading house on the Maumee

Bridenbaugh, Walter Davis and Pierce Taylor were here. A Mr. Kniss is said to have been the first shoemaker. Walter Davis was the first cooper. Jolly & Craig started the first tannery, nearly opposite the Russell House.

The following incident is related of one of the relics of the war of 1812: There were lying about the village sundry empty bombshells and a few can- non-balls. When the fort here was evacuated, some of the ammunition, bombshells and cannon-balls were thrown into the river. A part of these balls and shells were discovered by the early settlers and fished out. They were thrown upon the bank at Defiance, where every one who wanted one took it, and the remainder were kicked about as things of no value and as matters of idle curiosity andremark. One day, a loafing party amused themselves in picking the fuse out of three shells, when one of them thought it would be a good speculation to apply a coal'of fire to it. He did so, and the fierceness with which it commenced burning suggested to them that they did not occupy an eminently safe place from which to witness the final result; so they took ashort recess, some over the bank and others behind stumps. They put off, pretty badly scared, and had barely reached their places of retreat before the shell exploded, manifesting a very destructive power. One piece struck Mr. Leavell's house, some eight or ten rods distant, leaving an indentation that demanded the aid of the carpenter; another struck a store, nearer the place of explosion, with stil] greater force, but no person was hurt.

At an early day, when Defiance could boast of having a log jail, and the Sheriff lived in a double log cabin in East Defiancs, where now stands the brick residence lately owned and occupied by William Lewis, one of our early pioneers. His Honor the Sheriff, William Preston, had an Indian in the lockup for stealing a watch. The custom of the Sheriff was to hang the key to the jail at the entrance of his double log cabin, and as court convened but once a year, several young men, thinking it rather expensive to the county to keep the Indian until next term of court, proceeded to the Sheriff's residence, took the key from the porch and let the Indian out. Several young men being stationed at a convenient distance, with whips in hand, whipped the Indian ont of town. The next morning, the Sheriff took down the key as usual, and started for the jail with the breakfast for his prisoner. but found no Indian. The boys had locked the door, and returned the key to its proper place. Frederick Bridenbaugh, Allen Brocher, James Spofford and others were the boys who had the fun.

Population

In 1840, the population was less than three hun - dred. Bryan, and the future of Defiance was not encouraging. Brunersburg, a thriving little village two miles north, threatened to outstrip it in growth. Prior to 1836, the site of Defiance was still almost wholly covered. with the second furest growth to which it had been abandoned in 1794. Its dwellings, houses and stores were frame buildings, set on wooden blocks, and for the must part were shanties. Its business was mostly trading with the Indians and hunters for pelts, which were then disposed of to traders who came this way. In 1842, the canal was built and trade increased. Three years later, the county seat was obtained, and a new growth commenced, In 1848, the village contained two churches, five inercantile houses and about seven hundred inhabitants. In 1850, it had reached 890, but the increase during the next decade was only fifty-two. In 1870, Defiance contained 2,750 inhabitants, and in 1880, 5,907.

Post Office

The first post office at Defiance was established May 19, 1821, and located on the north side of the Maumee River, and kept by Timothy 5. Smith in the same building in which he lived. In the fall of 1822, a sinall frame building, about ten or twelve feet square, was erected at or near the fort grounds, expressly for a post office on the south side of the Maumee, and still kept by Smith as Postmaster. The mail route at that time extended from Piqua to Perrysburg, a distance of about two hundred miles, running via St. Mary's (Auglaize County), Fort Wayne (Ind.), thence to Defiance, and from Defiance to Waterville (distant about forty-two miles), and from there to the end of the route - Perrysburg.

Fort Defiance was the name of the office until March 10, 1824, when it was changed to Defiance. The first bondsmen of Mr. Smith were Peter G. O'Hara and Samuel Ewing, for $700.

Incorporation

Tuesday in April, 1836, John Lewis was elected Mayor, and James Hudson, Jonas Colby, Amos Evans, Horace Sessions and Jacob Kniss, Trustees. The first entry on the book of minutes is a certificate, signed by Foreman Evans, Associate Judge, setting . forth that John Lewis had appeared before him and taken the oath of office as Mayor. The Trustees qualified before the Mayor on the 16th of April, except Mr. Sessions, who declined to serve.

On the 7th of May, the Council held its first meeting. John Oliver was appointed to fill the vacancy. KE. 8. Perkins, who had been elected Recorder, being found not to be eligible (not having been resident sufficient time), George W. Crawford was appointed in his place, Amos Evans acting as Recorder for that meeting. The Council appointed John Hilton the Village Marshal. July 4, the Council met and appointed E. C. Case Assessor. July 17, Council met. Alfred Purcell was appointed Treasurer, and the Recorder's fees fixed at "ten cents for every hundred words of writing performed for the Council, except for transcribing copies, where he should receive only eight cents." The Town Treasurer was required to 'give bond inthe sum of $1.200, with "two freebold securities." The first ordinance of the town was passed at this meeting, in which the Old Fort Grounds were cared for, in providing "that any person or persons destroying the public point lying in the junction of the Maumee and Auglaize Rivers, either by shooting, chopping or digging, or in any way or manner whatever, upon conviction of which before the Mayor, shall be subject to a fine." December 30, Mayor Lewis resigned, and Dr. Crawford was appointed in his stead, and C. C. Waterhouse became Recorder. Ten feet on each side of the streets of the town were set off for sidewalks.

The expenses for the year 1836 were $1.75 for Record book, 18 cents for paper, $10.50 to the Recorder, $5.58 to the Assessor. There seems to have been no settlement made with the Marshal.

The tax of 1836 amounted to $244.98 on the lots. The town comprised only 150 lots, and a portion of these belonged to the county and were not taxable, and comprised within the Auglaize and Maumee Rivers and Harrison street on the west and Fourth street on the south.

The next regular election was held April 4, 1837, in the court house, resulting in the choice of ©. CG. Waterhouse for Mayor; George T. Hickox, Recorder, and 5. 8. Sprague, John Oliver, Amos Evans, Jacob Kniss, Benjamin Brubacher, Trustees. At the first meeting of the Council, William A. Brown was appointed Marshal, Erskine S. Perkins. Treasurer, and William C. Holgate, Supervisor.

elected Mayor, George T. Hickox, Recorder, and Lyman Langdon, Benjamin Brubacher, Horace Ses sions, John B. Semans and William C. Holgate, Trustees - politically a Whig Board. April 11,

April 25, Mr. Sanford having declined to serve as Marshal, James: M. Reed was appuinted to fill the vacancy. At this meeting, the rule of taxation was changed, so as to include "all property made taxable by the State of Ohio, for State and county purposes, " the assessment to be made between the Ist day of April and the Ist day of May in each year.

May 22, one-third of one per cent was levied for town purposes. An appropriation was made for the purpose of draining the low grounds lying between the court house square and the Methodist Church. In many places this has since been filled five and six feet, to reach the present grade. Amos S. Evans haying removed from the corporation, Robert Wasson was appointed Treasurer. during the summer, William Semans was made Recorder for the balance of the year.

In 1839, C. V. Royce was re-elected Mayor, Orlando Evans elected Recorder, and Jacob Kniss, Lyman Langdon, Sydney 8. Sprague, David C. Knoop and Jonas Colby Trustees - an equal divide between the parties.

At a meeting of the board on the 27th of July, sixteen and a half feet were set apart for sidewalks on all streets of the town except on Front street, where the width was to be but twelve feet. During this year, the records show the appointment of John Kniss, James B. Laughlin and William Carter as Marshals.

In February, 1840, the first sidewalks were ordered, "commencing at the corner of Jefferson and Third streets, and running north on the west side of Jefferson street until it intersects Front street, thence

, One per centum tax was levied, and also subscriptions raised to aid in paying for the sidewalks ordered. The collections of the year amounted to $188.35, and the disbursements to $189.05. Various ordinances and regulations were adopted this year for the protection of the new sidewalks.

1842 - C. V Royce was chosen Mayor, IL. P. E. Whedon, Recorder, and Amos Zellers, James B. Langhlin, Jacob Kniss, Z. H. Davis and Elias Shirley, Trusiees, Mr. Stevens continuing Marshal. .

In 1841, an addition, known as the First Addition to the village of Defiance, Ohio, was laid off by H. G. Phillips and Curtis Holgate, extending around the old town plat on the south and west from the Auglaize and Maumee, including the blocks between Jackson and Harrison streets, was, by a special act of the Legislature, annexed to the corporation in 1844. In 1847, after the organization of the new county of Defiance, a tax of $1,000, by a special act, was levied in the town, to aid the county in the construction of the first free bridge across the Maumee River.

side of Clinton street; thence south, on the west side of Clinton street, to thesouth side of Second street; thence east, to the east side of Clinton street; thence south, to the north side of Third street. Also, commencing on the south side of Front street, at the east side of Wayne street, and running south to the southwest corner of the court house." There were not half a dozen houses in town then not accommodated by this route. The work was finished the next year, W. D. Haymaker furnishing the lumber at $10.37 per thousand, and Evans & Royce laying the walk at 30 cents per rod. The walks were but three feet in width.

1845 - John M. Stilwill, Mayor; Jouas Colby, Recorder, end William A. Brown, Edwin Phelps, Jacob Kniss, D. W. Marcellus and John Wells, Trustees.

1846 - William Carter, Mayor; Jonas Colby, Recorder, and William A. Brown, Angus L. Downs, D. W. Marcellus, Edwin Phelps and Sidney S. Sprague, Trustees.

1847 - William Carter, Mayor; Jonas Colby, Recorder, and William A. Brown, Angus L. Downs, John Stilwill, 8. S. Sprague and F. J. Weisenberger, Trustees.

Angus L. Downs, William A. Brown and J. M. § ilwill, Trustees. 1849 - Nathan M. Landis, Mayor; William Richards, Recorder, and Timothy Fitzpatrick, Seneca A. Sanford, J. W. Phillips, Hugh J. Marcellus and F. _ J. Weisenburger, Trustees.

Trustees. 1851--Sidney 8S. Sprague, Mayor; William Richards, Recorder, and William O'Connell, William E. Enos, F. J. Weisenburger, 8S. M. McCord and Jacob J. Greene, Trustees. 1852 - John M. Stilwill, Mayor; William Richards, Recorder, and D. W. Marcellus, Henry C. Bouton, James B. Kimball, Levi Rider and F. J. Weisenburger, Trustees. 1853 - William Moore, Mayor; William Richards, Recorder, and Alexander Backus, Jacob J. Greene, Angus L. Downs, F. J. Weisenburger and Amos Zellers, 'Frustees. 1854 - Alexander Backus, Mayor William Rich- "ards, Recorder, and William Moore, Angus L. Downs, John M. StilwilJ, Jacob J. Greene and William A. Brown, Trustees. 1855 - Charles Parsons, Mayor; William Richards, Recorder, and Thomas D. Harris, Ira Richardson,James L. Olney, David W. Marcellus and Edward F. Lin- ' denburger, Trustees. 1856 - Angus L. Downs, Mayor; William Richcorder, and Martin Viebach, William Higgins, Martin Shondal, J. B. Heatley and Frederick Schultz, Council.

1864 - William Higgins, Mayor; E. H. Gleason, Recorder; A. B. Crunkhilton, Treasurer; M. A. Perkins, E. Phelps, J. Karst, John Rub] and Michael Roorke, Council. July 5, M. A. Perkins resigned, and J. H. Bevington appointed.

' 1866 - S. T. Sutphen, Mayor; E. H. Gleason, Recorder; A. Wilhelm, Treasurer; J. Karst, F. Trompe, Job English. J. H. Kiser, A. Dolke, Council.

Hudson, A. A. Downs and J. W. McKim Trustees. 1858 - David Taylor, Mayor; William E. Kintigh, Recorder, and J. W. McKim, J. P. Buffington, L. &.

1859 - William {Carter, Mayor; Edwin Phelps, Recorder; William Moore, Treasurer, and Jonas Colby, F. J. Weisenburger, F. Wolsiffer, William E. Enos and R. H. Gilson, Trustees. Murch 6, 1860, Henry Hardy was appointed Trustee in place of F. J. Weisenburger, deceased.

In the summer of 1823, Dr. John Evans built on the opposite corner of Front and Jefferson streets, into which he moved his family in November of that year. To this he svon afterward built a large twostory addition, of a sufficient capacity for a store and hotel, which he ran for a number of years, and sold out to Thomas Warren and William Travis, who occupied it for a time.

C. C. Waterhouse next became proprietor, and connected therewith a four-horse stage, running to Maumee City. At this time, the hotel took the uame of Pavilion. Connected with this hotel at an early day (says John D. Graper), was a barn sufficiently large to accommodate over night fourteen to sixteen horses, in which there was not a nail or scrap of iron used in its construction. Wood pins were used in place of nails, hinges and latches of wood, and the clapboards were weighted down by poles.

ceased) purchased the old Pavilion property. His widow, Rebecea A. Squire, now owns and occupies the same. The youngest son, Edward, who also occupies with his mother, says he well recollects of a portion of the old Pavilion and also the old barn standiug when his father bought the premises, and which he has since assisted in pulling down and clearing up the grounds, and the corner of Front and Jefferson, where once stood the grand old Pavilion, now forms a portion of the door yard to Mrs. Squire's residence, with here and there a bowlder scattered through the yard, once the corner-stone of "ye old Pavilion."

Exchange Hotel. - About 1827 or 1828, Payne C. Parker built on the corner of Front and Clinton streets, where the furniture store of Hoffman & Geiger now stands, for a store and hotel, in which he carried on business for several years. Then he rented it to Blackman & Stoddard, in 1834 or 1835. John W. Moore kept it about one year. Lyman Langdon next occupied and went in 1836 or 1837, and ran it five or six years, and under his administration it took the name of Exchange. Next followed C. J. Freedy and Samuel Rohn in 1841. Rohn remained but a short time, and sold his interest to Allen Braucher. Next was Samuel Greenlee. who took possession in 1847 or 1848. C. L. Noble next occupied, and continued until it burned down in June 6, 1852, an account of which we clip from the Detiance Banner of June 10. 1852, as follows:

"The old and well-known Exchange buildings were destroyed by fire on Sunday morning last. The fire was discovered about 1 o'clock in the hotel stables, in which eleven horses were burned. The buildings were the property of Col. J. D. Phillips, of Dayton, Ohio, who had no insurance. The hotel was occupied by C. L. Noble, partly insured; D. Taylor's law office, furniture. etc., mostly saved. A. M. Richards' saddler shop, loss about $150; and William Fergusou's tin and stove store, loss about $500. The Banner building was partly saved, by great exertion of the citizens. Dr O. Allen's drug store was in imminent danger. P. Evans and Lindenberger had their goods considerably damaged in removing them."

Clinton House - The next hotel in Detiance was built by Amos Evans on the corner of Clinton and Second streets, where now stands the finest business block of Defiance, the three-story stone front built by C. A. Flickinger and J. B. Weisenburger.

The hotel was built in A. D. 1835 or'1836, and kept as a boarding house by Conrad Slagle during the time of the building of the canal. Was opened up as a hotel in 1844, and kept by Norman King, who also carried on the gunsmith business, and the hotel took the name of Clinton House. Just how long Mr. King carried on the business we have!not been able to ascer tain, but probably about five or six years, for the next record we find is under the head of American Honse, in the spring of 1851, and kept by Charles W. Carey. About five months thereafter, August 21, 1851, we find B, B. Southworth as proprietor. On March 6, 1854, Larkin Heacock went in, and ran it two years, and following him, as near as we can learn, John Daly, and was called "Daly's Exchange." Following him was J. E. Mellen, Lysander Williams, Elliott Cosgrove, Dr. Benn, Aaron Bennett and Samuel Kintigh.

streets, was built in 1836 or 1837 by John L. Grey. In 1854, when the cholera raged badly in this town, there were several cases of cholera in this house, and

A hotel on the north side of the Maumee, standing near the " Big Apple tree," was built in 1832, and kept by Alfred Powell; next by Mr. Ames, as a grocery and store, and used as a packing-house; next by Benjamin Weidenhamer; afterward by Mr. Stone, as a hotel and marble shop. This, too, came to an end by fire, the same as the Grey House, in the summer or fall of 1854, " cholera times."

Washington Hotel, on the hill, North Defiance, was built first for a dwelling house in 1840, by one Mr. Moore. Afterward was bought, enlarged and 'opened to the public, in 1845, by H. R. Major, who kept it as a hotel up to February, 1852. He then rented the property to John Bostater for three years, who afterward assigned his lease to Burk & Struble, who dissolved partnership soon after. The house was kept by James Burk up to September of same year, when Mr. Struble took possession, and remained its land- Jord up to February, 1855. The property was then bought by Aaron Cary, of Crawford County, Ohio, who kept it for two or three years longer. Afterward, it was traded and sold several times, and finally came into possession of F. Wolsiffer. who converted it into a private residence.

then followed Frederick Cox, Samuel Kintigh, Lorenzo Thomas, George Thompson, and last, Gideon Yarlot, who now owns and occupies the same as a residence,

The Crosby House was bnilt for a dwelling in 1869 or 1870, by Mike Shultz. Mr. Crosby, however, had the building converted into a hotel, and conducted it for four or five years; after which Mr, Shultz acted in the double capacity of owner and proprietor. While in his possession, the building was burned, but was immediately rebuilt, and J. E. Case- beer became proprietor, who ran it till June, 1883, when it again passed into the hands of Mr. Shultz. Mr. Casebeer moved to Toledo, and re-opened the American House in that city, under the name of the Merchants' Hotel.

The Russell House - This commodious hotel was commenced by Sidney S. Sprague, but his affairs becoming involved, it was completed under the direction of a receiver, R. H. Gilson, in 1858. Charles Russell was the first proprietor, from 1858 to 1863, and from him the house received its name, which it has ever since retained. After Mr. Russell severed his connection with this house, he was proprietor for a time of the Forest City House, Cleveland, and at the time of his death, June 1, 1874, wus proprietor of the Lake House, Sandusky. Larkin Heacock ran the Russell House from April, 1863, to April, 1866, and was succeeded by Elijah Shipley. who remained in possession until May, 1873. William C. Hutchiuson and Mr. Jackson were each successively proprietors for a short time, and. in February, 1877, Simon P. Moon became the owner and proprietor. He dispused of the property to the Frost Brothers, and under their ownership N. H. Webb took possession, June 1. 1877, continuing until December, 1880, | when it passed into the hands of Mr. R. H. Harrison.

August 15, 1882, he associated with him Mr. William Kirtley, Jr., became connected with the house, and it is now run under the firm name of Harrison & Kirtley.

Banking In Defiance

The present system of banking was instituted by Ahira Cobb and Virgil Squire. These gentlemen were conducting a dry goods store here at the time of

_ the failure of the banking house of R. H. Gilson & Co. The village being left without any banking _ facilities whatever, they commenced selling exchange upon Eastern points to the different mercantile es-_ tablishments here, but received no deposits.

In the year 1861, these gentlemen disposed of their stock of dry goods to Christian Harley, who had been clerking for them for some time previous, and opened up an exclusive banking and exchange office. The bank was opened under the 'name of the Bank- _ ing House of Cobb & Squire, who were Ahira Cobb | and Virgil Squire, Mr. Cobb living in Cleveland,

Ohio, and giving no personal attention to the busi ness. Mr. Squire lived here, and personally managed _ the business of the bank. The banking room was What is now the rear office of the Russell House, with an entrance on First street. In June, 1866, Edward Squire, a son of Mr. Squire, returning from college, was given a place in the office as partner. This partner- | ship continued until 1869, when Mr. Cobb withdrew entirely from the business, Mr. Squire remaining. He then associated himself with James A. Oreutt and Joseph Ralston. These three gentlemen then opened the Defiance County Bank, with a capital paid in of about $20,000, with Virgil Squire as President and Edward Squire as Cashier. The banking room was at this time removed from the location in the Russell House to the corner of Clinton and Second streets, into a building just completed and owned by M.«. George Bruner, of Duncannon, Penn. The increasing population vf Defiance and its expanding business enterprises were taxing tbe limited banking capital of this bank for accommodations. More capital was added and other parties admitted as partners until, in 1871, there was paid in a capital of $50,- 000. During the summer of this year, it was concluded best by the proprietors of this bank to merge the same intoa National Bank. They were successful in their application to the Government for a charter, and on January 1, 1872, the Defiance National Bank was opened for business, with a paid-up capital of $100,000, with Virgil Squire as President, Henry Kahlo, Vice President, and Edward Squire, Cashier, and the following Board of Directors: Virgil Squire, James A. Orcutt, Henry Kahlo, John Crowe, Joshua P. Ottley, William Lauster and Edward Squire.

By the death of Virgil Squire, in May, 1874, the Presidency of the bank became vacant, and was filled by the election of James A. Orcutt. Henry Kahlo retiring, Joshua P. Ottley was elected Vice President.

Tho Board of Directors at this time, A. D. 1883, are James A. Orcutt, Joshua P. Ottley, Edward Squire, Joseph [alston, Benjamin F'. Southworth, Charles E. Slocum and B. W. Slagle. James A. Orcutt, President; Edward Squire, Cashier; F. J. Sheah, Assistant Cashier.

The Merchants' National Bank of Defiance. During the fall of 1875, the idea of a second bank in Defiance was agitated by some of its citizens, and on the 24th of December, of that year, the " Defiance Savings Bank" was chartered, with the followingnamed gentlemen as incorporators, to wit: William C. Holgate, Edward P. Hooker, John S. Greenlee, Alexander S. Latty and Adam Wilhelm, who also constituted its first Board of Directors. This bank was opened for business March 1, 1876, with a subscribed capital of $50,000, and the following as officers: William C. Helgate, President; Adam Wilhelm, Vice President; Benjamin L. Abell, Cashier, the latter for several years an employe. and latterly Assistant Cashier of the Defiance National Bank. This bank did a constantly increasing business until March 1881, when its capital was increased to $100, 000, and in, April of the same year itre-organized as " The Merchants' National Bank of Defiance." The following was its condition as reported to the Comptroller of the Currency, January 1, 1883, to wit: Liabilities - Capital stock, $100,000; surplus funds and undivided profits, $1,599.73; circulation, $90,000; dividends unpaid, $4,000; deposits, $161,084.48; due to other banks, $400.97; unpaid taxes, $1,719.51; total, $358, 804.69.

The following-named gentlemen now constitute its Board of Directors, to wit: William C. Holgate, Henry Newbegin, Adam Wilhelm, Lewis Teidman, J. P. Buffington, Edward P. Hooker and Benjamin L. Abell, and its officers are William C. Holgate, President; Benjamin Abell, Cashier.

Turnbull Wagon Company is the most extensive manufacturing interest of Defiance, the works of which are located in the northeastern portion of the city. They were erected in 1876, by D. B. Turnbull and his sons, F. A. and David H. Turnbull. For several years the business of the firm was confined to the manufacture of various kinds of agricultural wheels. About four years ago, the manufacture of wagons was commenced, and, quite recently, of bug- In October, 1882, a stock company, consisting of the original proprietors and a number of Toledo capitalists, was organized, with a C. F. Curtis is President; A. H. Wood, Secretary, and M. Neering, Treasurer. The value of the buildings exceed $75,000, and the grounds and machinery together are worth as much more. From four to five hundred men are employed, and the works run at their full capacity throughout the year. They manufacture daily about two thousand wheels and fifteen wagons.

Planing Mills. - The first planing mill at Defiance was started about 1862, by Hamilton Davison & Son, and operated by them until 1872, when they sold it to Charles C. Strong and Samuel F. Cheney. A general line of planiag mill bisiness is transacted, including the manufacture of sash, doors, blinds, ete. Two years ago, a machine shop was added to the establishment, where, in addition tothe general repair work, lathes and the various machinists' tools are manufactured, Of the other twoplaning mills now in operation in Defiance, that of Karst & Tenzer was started by Peter Kuntz in 1872, and that of Kuhn & Ulrich subsequently. The latter firm has also been engaged for several years in the manufacture of tcbacco | boxes.

Hoop and Stave Factories. - Defiance is unexcelled as a place for the manufacture of wooden articles from native timber. Its three rivers and two canals afford it the means of bringing logs and timber from u wide scope of country at a trifling cost, and one of the industries thus fostered is the making of hoops and staves.

The Defiance Hoop and Stave Company, of which : John Marshall, John S. Greenlee and Louis Marshall are the members, started in business at Defiance in June, 1882, in the northeast portion of the city, on the banks of the Maumee. When running at full force, seventy-eight men are employed; 18,000 patent coiled elm hoops, for kegs and half barrels, and 25, - 000 staves are daily produced. The former find a | market chiefly in New York, Philadelphia and Boston; the Jatter in St. Louis.

D. F. Holston's hoop factory is located at the junction of the Wabash and B. & O. Railroads, and turns out daily, when running at full capacity, 32,- 000 patent steam coiled barrel and keg hoops, which are used principally for nail kegs, sugar. lime and salt barrels; 10.000 feet of elm timber is consumed daily, and forty men and boys are employed. The buildings are ample, and a large business transacted, The first coil of hoops was made at the factory April 17, 1879.

Crow & Hooker and Trowbridge & Eddy are each engaged in the manufacture of staves on an extensive scale. The former firm began business in June, 1882; the latter has been in operation for several years. Each employs about twenty-five hands, and each turns out about 25,000 staves per day. <A few years ago, it was thought that the man. ufacture of staves and hoops had reached the maximum point at Defiance, but more are being made in this city at present than ever before.

Hubs, Spokes, Forks, Wagons, etc. - The Defiance Manufacturing Company. with a capital of $100,000, is incorporated, and has William C, Holgate as President and E. P. Hooker, Secretary. It is ono of the chief manufacturing establishments of Defiance, and annually sends forth from its factory a vast of hubs and spokes.

Another factory is that of Haller & Gibson, recently set in operation. It manufactures patent wooden forks, and is making preparations for the manufacture of extensive agricultural works. -

The American Wood Preserving Company, which has extensive works in several cities, owns and operates a branch at Defiance, where the principal business is the hardening of elm railroad ties by treating

Other manufactories of wood, on a somewhat smaller scale, are in operation, and, taken all in all, Defiance is, perhaps, unequaled in the State as a

Furniture. - William Hoffman and C. Geiger, under the firm name of Hoffman & Geiger, have a furniture factory on Perry street, where they started in business in 185%), and have since continued. About fifteen men are employed, and the furniture manufactured both supplies their retail home trade and also finds its way to foreign markets.

The Defiance Machine Works, one of the largest manufacturing institutions, has been in operation since 1872. They are successors of a foundry which was operated for many years at the same place. The foundry and machine shop was built in 1850. and leased to Kimball & Frank, the former a molder and the latter a machinist. Peter Kettenring, a young man who had learned the molder's trade with this firm, in 1856 leased the shop. Two years later, Strong Brothers & Oreutt became its operators. It was burned in 1864, but rebuilt by "Kettenring &

_and chartered. Mr. Kettenring has been its President to the present time. The works manufac'ure wood-working machinery, engines, boilers, shafting, ete, togetber with all kinds of castings. In 1882, an extensive brick addition was made to the buildings. About one hundred and twenty-five men are employed.

Defiance Woolen Mills are situated on the Miami & Erie Canal, and derive their power from the canal. They were first"built by William Gibson, of St. Mary's Ohio," in 1861, and operated for him by the mills did a variety of work, manufacturing cassimeres, satinets, jeans, flannels, blankets and yarn, besides doing a large amount of custom work for the counties. In the early history of the mills, R. C. Gibson sold his interest to James Johnson, of Piqua, who in turn sold to Francis Jarvis, and the firm name became Jarvis & Bruner, with Mr. Bruner as Superintendent. They were run under this name for three years, when Francis Jarvis purchased the interest of Alexander Bruner, and the firm name was changed to Francis Jarvis & Son, and operated by James J. Jarvis, who has since been owner and sole proprietor, and under whose able management the mills have achieved a reputation second to none in the West. The production for the past three years has been principally ahead of production in Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana and Ohio. They annually consume 100,000 pounds of wool, which is bought principally in Ohio markets. with the demands of trade.

The Gas Works were built in 1875,and manufacture gas from petroleum, under patents granted to J. D. Patton, a citizen of Detiance County. are located nearly midway between the business center of the city and the B. & O. depot. and appurtenances occupy the point of land between the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad and Clinton street, from which point the distributing pipes extend in all directions, reaching all the principal streets and bridges of the city and crossing the river at three different points. The ageregate length of these iron pipes is between four and five miles. The original cost of the works was $25,V00, represented by that amount of paid-up stock, which is nearly all owned by citizens of Detiance County. Hon. Alexander. Latty is

1875, Mr. Wilhelm replaced the old overskot wheel with a turbine, and added an elevator with a storage capacity of about 20,000 bushels. Extensive improvements have since been made, and a 135-horsepower Corliss engine has recently been purchased.

'which it derives its power; were built by Judge Palmer in 1852; sold to Edwin Phelps. who in 1871 The last-named gentleman, in January, 1873, added steam power, the engine being sixty-five horse-power; but finding this insufficient, returned to water-power, grinding about 125 bushels per day employing five or six hands. In 1876, L. D. Renolett bought a half-interest, but retired January, 1881, since which time David Boor & Son have run it, adding recently a 100-horse-power engine and four run of stone.

The Ashery and Pearl-Ash Business was established in Defiance by E. F. Lindenberger . about thirty years ago, who had previously had experience in tions. The business prospered and grew larger until 1870, when Louis Tiedeman was taken in to partnership. In 1875, the partnership was dissolved, and the firm was known for a short time as Lindenberger & Hardy, but owing to the death of senior partner in the fall of that year, Mr. Teideman repurchased the business and has since continued the same up to date. The factory is located on Clinton street, south of the

The Defiance Mills were erected by William Semans, in 1846, and then comprised two run of stone. Two years later, Frederick F. Stevens became his partner and the inills were completed, two run of In 1858, Mr. Semans sold his interest to William A. Brown, and in 1859 Mr. Stevens disposed of his to David Taylor. Mr. A. Wilhelm, the present proprietor, purchased a halfinterest from Mrs. Sessions, of Painesville, Ohio, and afterward rented, then purchased Mr. Brown's interest. He admitted his son, John R. Wilhelm, as a partner, and the style of the firm is now A. Wil- The mill was then doing a business of Last year it amounted to About its kind in the United States, shipments being made to Boston, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Cincinnati, St. Louis and other points. Mr. Teideman a few years ago took into partnership Mr. D. Diedneck, whose factory is located on the north side of the Maumee, and whose capacity is 100 casks of pearl ash per annum. The products of these factories are used into black salts. This is done by evaporation in shallow pans. Five hundred bushels of ashes are used, from which one ton of black salts is obtained. The home supply of ashes not being sufficient, black salts are purchased at various points in the neighboring States. The black salts are put into a scorching oven, having a capacity of 2,000 pounds. Ten hours' brisk fire convert the black salts into " scorcbings," an impure white salt, which is put into the settler and dissolved in hot water, which, after settling, the liquid (or salts dissolved) is drawn off into kettles and boiled about ten hours, by which process it is converted into pure white salts.

process is completed, when from the rear of the oven | is taken the pearl ash, which is now fine, pure white | The business of the establishand free from grit. ment averages about $75,000 per year, an amount known to be larger than any other factory in the United States, not even excepting the large factories in New York and Boston. In 1874, its quotation of prices were known to control the markets of the United States.

Newspapers In Defiance

The Defiance Banner, a Whig paper, was published and edited by John B. Seamans, Esq., an attorney as well as printer, during 1888-39. The first number was issued August the 5th, 1838. The pub. lication was continued about nine months, when it was forced to suspend, although it had the public printing and other patronage of several counties. The Banner was an imperial sheet, with six columns of long primer type, new or nearly so, with brevier for advertisements. This was the first newspaper in this region of Ohio, was ably edited and merited a better fate.

"The Barometer, much reduced in size, having but four columns, the first number of which appeared September 21, 1839, was neutral as to politics, and was issued from the same office by Maj. Seamans, who was also editor. The publication of the Barometer was continued nine months, when it was sold to G. W. Wood, of Fort Wayne, who had then just sold the Sentinel office to Nelson, and with the materials bought here commenced the publication of the Times where the same materials and editor are to this day. The neutrality of this nine-months affair was with difficulty sustained during the excitement of the spring of 1840, for the editor himself says in his number of May 23, that it was by an effort, nay by a constant concession of efforts. We can't and we shan't publish a neutral paper any longer.'

"The next in order was the North-Western, the first number of which was issued June |, 1848, by J. B. Steodman & Co., and edited by H.S. Knapp, at that time also connected with the Kalida Venture. The North-Western was Democratic in politics, was the press and other materials. The publication was discontinued in the summer of 1844, and the press and materials removed to Logansport, Ind., having

This was succeeded by the present Defiance Dem- : ocrat, the first number of which was issued July 17, 1844, by A. H. Palmer, Esq., and by him edited. | "The materials, which were very extensive for a western office, had been previously used at Toledo, in the publication of the Register. Mr. Palmer sold out the office the succeeding spring to Samuel Yearick, whose connection as editor and pruprietor commenced with the thirty-fourth number of Vol. I, March 6, 1845. An interest was purchased by J. W. Wiley, and after May 28, 1846, Vol. If, No. 42, it was edited and published by Yearick & Wiley. In the spring of 1847, Mr. Wiley having been appointed to a Lientenancy in the Fifteenth Regiment United States Army, his interest was bought back in May by Yearick, The publication of the Democrat was continued by Mr. Yearick until the office was disposed of, on March 3, 1849, to Hon. J. J. Greene, who continued its publication until December 3, 1873, when it was purchased by Elmer White and W. G. Blymyer. In July, 1878, these gentlemen sold the office tu George P. Hardy, who conducted it until April, 1879, when White & Blymyer again assumed control. in July, 1881, Mr. Blymyer retired from the office, having disposed of his interest to Frank J. Mains. The office is now managed by White & Mains. It will show for itself as to size, type, etc., and is and has been Democratic in politics.

"A second Defiance Banner, Whig also in polities, was started and published by R. R. Thrall. The first number was issued October 4, 1849, uponan imperial sheet, with bourgeois and brevier type. The press and materials are those used by Blaker in the publication of the Standard at Bryan, in 1846-47."

The county seat was removed to Bryan in 1841, and the new county of Defiance was created at the session of 1844-45, and commenced April 7, 1845.

The last number of the Defiance Banner was dated September 23, 1852. From that time until 1856, Defiance published no Whig paper. Some time in that year (1856) a paper callled the Defiance Star was started. What time in the year I am unable to find any record, and a copy of the Star cannot be found in the county. It was a six-column folio, Republican in politics, and earnestly advocated the election of Gen. John OC. Fremont for President. The subscription price was $1 per year. It was published | about a year and then sold, I think to George Wea- | mer, who continued its publication in the same size and price, only changing the name to Defiance Republican. In 1861, Weamer sold it to N. C. A. Rayhouser, who published it about a year and sold it to W. R. Carr. May 23, 1862, Carr began the publication of the Defiance Constitution, a seven-column _ folio, at $1 per year, Republican in polities. Carr soon reduced it in size to a six-column folio. In 1863, A. J. Warwick purchased it, and published it several years, raising: the subscription price to $1.50 per year. J. D. Baker then purchased it and published it until 1867, and sold it to Francis Brooks, December 7, 1867, Francis Brooks began the publication of the Detiance Weekly Express, a seven-column folio, at $2 per year, Republican in polities. In 1869, Brooks enlarged it to an eight-column folio, and in a short time changed it to a five-columa quarto. In 1872, he again changed it to a seven column folio, and in the latter part of the same year to an eight-column folic. In the summer of 1873, he changed it to a small five-column quarto, and in the latter part of the same year enlarged it to a sixcolumn quarto. In 1874, he sold it to Frank B. Ainger, of Bryan, Ohio, who, in connection with Lee BR. Rudisill (for a time), published it until 1877,

C. Culley. Mr. Culley published it as a six-column quarto until February, 1878, when he enlarged it to a nine-column folio. In the fall of 1882, was enlarged to a seven-column quarto.

The Union School Chronicle, a small four-column folio, monthly, edited by the teachers of the Defiance Union School, was published during 1868, only ten numbers being issued. The subscription price was $1 per year. It was printed at the Defiance Democrat office.

March 23, 1878, the Defiance National, a six-column folio, Greenback in politics, was first published. The editor was William M. Randall, his assistants were John J. Smith, Henry G. Baker, George Alpress and Charles T. Hayes. The subscription price was $1 per year. The last number of the National was published May 11, 1878.

July 5, 1878, Francis Brooks began the publication of the Greenback Era, an eight-column folio. January 1, 1879, the name was changed to the Dollar Era, and the form of the paper was soon changed to a five-column quarto. March 12,1879,Mr. Brooks began publishing the Daily Hra, a six-column folio, which, however, was only printed twice a week; it was published three or four weeks, when the publiation of the Dollar Era was again resumed. 'The last number of the Era was dated June 20), 1879.

February 20, 1879, the Mains brothers (Frank J. and Charles W.) began publishing the Democratic Ledger, a nine-column folio, subscription price $1.50 per year. It was published eight weeks, when it was purchased by White & Blymyer and was merged into the Democrat. The last number was dated April 17, 1879.

April 9, 1879; twenty-eight numbers were issued. The price was 2 cents per copy. It was printed at the Daily Democrat office, and was edited by 8S. Ray Williams.

Das Kirchen-Blatt, a sixteen-page paper, three columns to the page, German-Lutheran paper, $1.50 per year, first appeared in 1879. H. Deindorfer was editor; it was published at the Defiance County Hapress office. It is still published, but at the Democrat office.

The Kirchliche Zeitschrift, a Lutheran magazine, $1.50 per year, H. Deindorfer, editor, appeared in 1879, published at same office as the Kirchen-Blatt, is still published and at the Democrat office.

The Weekly Herald, a German eight- column fourpage paper, H. and J. Deindorfer, Jr., proprietors, appeared Wednesday, May 4, 1881. It was Independent in politics; subscription $1.50 per year. In April, 1882, the Herald was purchased by White & Mains, proprietors of the Democrat, who converted it into a Democratic paper.

The Democratic Times, a four-page eight columns to the paper, appeared in October, 1881, W. G. Blymyer, publisher; subscription, $1.50 per year.

The Barometer, first issue September 21, 1839, at Defiance, Ohio, at 50 cents per quarter or 6 cents per copy, published weekly, C. V. B. Martin, printer. This paper introduced itself to the public as follows:

Well, we are fairly before the public. No flaming prospectus - no pompous parade - no flourish of trumpets, heralded ourapproach. Still, we are here - what there is of us! There may be those who will turn up their nose at our Liliputian hebdomadal ; but no matter. They would probably do the same at the good Book itself, were a copy of it presented to them possessing less ponderosity than the homely quarto over which their grandsires used to pore. Some there are, we know, who estimate the value of everything according to the hugeness of its bulk - and to such a bushel of gold is worth no more than an equal quantity of sand! With these we have nothing todo. We neither court their friendship nor deprecate their wrath. Let them take their course, and we'll take ours. It shall be our aim to make the Barometer popular with the right sort of people, and if we succeed in this, a

''Despise not the day of small things.'' We thought it best not to attempt too much at first. The principal reason why so many newspapers go by the board is because their proprictors are too ambitious. In agricultural phraseology, they fence more ground than they are able to cultivate. We begin by inclosing asmall " truck patch,' witha sort of brush fenee; if circumstances shall warrant, it will in due time, be enlarged aud improved; if otherwise, there'll not be much lost. by its abandonment.

Whigs and Democrats - about eighteen or twenty months since, a prospectus was put in circulation for the establishment of a Democratic paper in Defiance, butit failed. Little more than twelve months have elapsed since the Defiance in death. On the first of last month, in the hope of obtaining the support of both parties, Messrs. Semans and Phelps (the first a Whig and the second a Democrat), issued proposals

We cannot expect the same good fortune to attend us always. The Americans are now led by a chief who never sleeps; the night and the day are alike to him.

but the thing wouldn't take. What course, then. should the Barometer pursue to avoid being shattered into a thousand atoms? Can any one tell us?) We've been thinking of forming a party of our own, and beating up for volunteers! What say you, gentlemen; will any of you 'list?

As this paper is commenced without a list of subscribers, itis hoped that gentlemen to whom the present number is sent, will interest themselves in our favor; remembering, however, that each list of names must be accompanied by the cash.

To the distant reader, it may not be uninteresting for us to drop a remark or two touching the position and history of this village. The ground on which it stands ought to be regarded, in some sort, as hal- domitable Wayne penetrated into the heart of the Indian country, and on this very spot planted the stars and stripes of liberty. It was here that having that he " defied hell and all her emissaries." Hence its name--Fort Defiance. Upon the completion of this work, feeling that he was now fully prepared for either peace or war, "he made a last attempt at conciliation." of his dispatches, "to offer the enemy a last overture of peace; and as they have everything that is dear they will listen to the proposition. But should war be their choice, the blood be upon their own heads. America shall no longer be insulted with impunity. To an all-powerful and just God, I therefore commit myself and gallant army." says the historian, "was rejected against the advice of the distinguished chief, Little Turtle, a man of great capacity and unimpeached courage, who, in a coun- our villages, notwithstanding the watchfulness of our young men, we have never been able to surprise him, Think well of it. There is something whispers me it would be prudent to listen to its offers of peace.' "

On the day following, which was the 20th of Angust, 1794, the sanguinary but decisive battle of Presque Isle was fought, in which the most consummate skill and bravery were exhibited by the American At the time of which we are speaking, the Maumee and Anglaize Valleys presented less the appearance of a wild and uncultivated region than we of this day are apt to imagine.

The American General, writing tu the Secretary of war, remarks: "The very extensive and highly cultivated fields and gardens show the work of many hands. The margins of those beautiful rivers, the Miami of the Lake and the Anglaize, appear like one continued village for a number of miles above and below this place; nor have I ever before beheld such im. mense fields of corn in any part of America, from This picture was drawn fortyfive years ago, at that time when this vast region was in possession of the savage; when the presence of the white man carried with it desolation and death, who, till his approach, happiness and plenty reigned undisturbed. Let us, of 1839, now that the red man kindles his council fire far beyond the Father of Waters blush for the little improvement with which we ave surrounded. This position was again occupied by the American troops during the war of 1812. The remains of the palisades which protected the army of Winchester while here are to be seen; and the embankments and trenches of Wayne, constructed in 1794, are still more visible. The advantages as to local situation possessed by Defiance are at once command. ing and important; and despite the barriers which have hitherto tended to retard her onward march, she must eventually assume that rank among the commercial towns of this beautiful valley, assigned her by She stands in the very heart of a rich, fertile country, with no less than four natural channels of communication by water, two canals, and numerous roads, radiating toward every point of the compass. But notwithstanding all this, the prospect to him who cares not to penetrate the vista of futurity, is gloomy and disaly << heartening. Business is almost at a dead stand. Operations upon the public works here and in our vicinity have near" . ceased. Money is scarce, and although provison are plenty in the hands of the producer, the mere consumer finds it difficult to furnish himself with many of the comforts of life. These things will in time regulate themselves; but not until we shall have become thoroughly sobered. When we shall learn to throw aside Aladdin's lamp, and, relying no longer on enchantment or chance, shall follow the dictates of reason and common sense, we shall move steadily forward in the road to opulence and wealth, pretty much as did our fathers and uncles in the days of our boyhood.

Old Advertisements

John B. Semans and William Semans, attorneys; Israel Stoddard, as administrator of the estate of Samuel Holton, deceased; J. B. Semans, administrator of G. T. Hickox's estate; S. Lyman & Co., last call to their debtors; H. Sessions, administrator for Friend Hall's estate, insolvent; Montgomery Evans notifies the public of two horses appraised by J. D. McAnally and B. Mullican at $95; notice of attachment is made by Charles V. Royce, Mayor of Defiance, against Edward Tuttle, an absent debtor, at the instance of Lyman Mudge, signed Sidney 8. Sprague, agent; Israel P. Whedon advertises hats, for which, "as cash is badly wanted, the best kind of bargains will be given;" on December +, 8. Hinkle advertises as a blacksmith,-at Hicksville; and A. P. Edgerton has a iams County, also the grist mills being in operation in Hicksville, also dry goods, etc. An advertisement also appears, giving the people of Williams County notice that at the next annual election (October, 1839), they should designate on their ballots for or against appointment of a commission to remove the seat of justice; M. Young, Chief Engineer of Wabash & Erie Canal, publishes, as result of recent letting, that certain named sections have been let to R. P. Harryman, J. G. Butman, Charles Bucklin, W. D. Barry, P. Donovan. B. Barker, S. & D. Harley, H. Doran, P. Murphy, Hall & Cheney, Gabriel Manning, E. P. Conreck, N. Demorest, F. Lyon. 'The death of Henry Zellers, aged thirty-four, of Brunersburg, September 29, 1839, is announced. He had been seven years | a resident, and left a widow and three small children. A LETTER LIST. As showing, to some extent, the residents of Detiance in 1839, we append the list of letters remaining in the post office on October 1, of that year:

We fling our Banner to the breeze, with the fond hope that it will meet with a hearty welcome from the people of Defiance and surrounding counties. That a Whig paper has long been needed, we believe all will agree; therefore we anticipate they will cheerfully put their shoulders to the wheel, and give us such a start as to send us on our way rejoicing.

The Banner will advocate the well-known Whig principles under which our State has flourished and advanced so much beyond her sisters in wealth, com- cate all measures necessary for the eerie cee ment and prosperity of our Union and State, by Legislative enactment or otherwise; it will give to the present administration a liberal support, so far as it is conducted in strict accordance with right and equity; it will keep posted up with the news of the day, and carefully notice all local and general matters that are calculated to advance the interests and growth of this portion of our State; it will have some earefully selected literary and agricultural matter in each number. It will be the endeavor of the publisher to add to the mechanical department, from time to time, such improvements as the increased demands of our patrons will justify. The location of our town will justify us in saying that it is bound to bea great mart for the produce and manufactures of the country around. Its almost unequaled beauty of scenery marks it as the place where families will resort for the purpose of finding residences. in which every comfort may be enjoyed, and homes which it will be their pride to adorn and beautify.

The citizens of Defiance can safely boast that their town has the most beautiful location of any in the West. Located as it is upon the high banks of the Maumee and the " Wild Auglaize," and at the confluence of the two rivers, almost every variety of natural scenery is afforded which is pleasing and agreeable. To one standing upon the old green forts Defiance or Winchester - and casting his eyes down upon the broad expanse of the two rivers, as they "flow gently on and mingle into one," a feeling of grandeur and sublimity insensibly steals over him, abd to whichever direction he turns his eyes from this wonted spot, the view is pleasant and beautiful to behold. There area number of beautiful groves back of the town. which afford delightful places of resort to visitors. The town now numbers about eight hundred inhabitants, and is steadily increasing its growth to its present size, we are informed, has principally been within the last four or five years. With one or two exceptions, the town is destitute of any very splendid edifices. 'The court house is a fine building, and would do honor to any county in the State. The Defiance Exchange is the principal hotel, and it will, doubtless, remain so (at least, as long as it is kept by the present proprietor). There are five or six large warehouses, seven or eight stores, und other store buildings in the progress of completion. The fall of water from the canal to the river affords an extensive water-power, and ample facilities for the establishinent of manufactories. Situated as the place is, in the heart of an immense agricultural commercial advantages to a great extent, it cannot fail to increase for a number of years to come. With the manifestation of a little more liberality on the part of one or two of the principal proprietors of the town, it would probably receive such an impetus to its - growth, that the citizens could bid defiance to any town in the West, in point of rapidity of growth, as well as beauty of scenery and healthiness and handsomeness of losation; and they might look forward with the fond anticipation that Defiance, erelong, would become a place of no small magnitude. A. Sosourner.

Schools Of Defiance

From the best sources of information at our com. mand, back and beyond any written and authentic records, we find that the first schvol in Defiance commenced about the year 1825. The first schoolhouse

| of which we can gain any information was a hewedlog building, erected on lands now occupied by Strong & Cheney as a lumber factory, north of First street, between the canal and the Maumee River The first teachers were William Semans; second William Edmondson, and, third. William A. Brown. In 1828, a school was taught by Brice Hilton, about two miles southeast of Detiance, on Cole's Run.

Following along down to 1537, or thereabouts, we find that schools were kept in the old brick court house building, oceupving Lot 58, next north of the Presbyterian Church, and now occupied by Henry Hardy, Esq., as a dwelling. The first written records of the schools of Defiance (then Williams) County bear date 19, 1841; in which we find Jonas Colby, Edwin Phelps and James S. Greer were the Directors of School District No. 1, and Levi Colby was the Clerk of said district.

There were four schools taught during the school year, the first commencing November 30, 1840, and ending February 20, 1841; whole number of scholars 100; 39; females, orthog- in attendance average number per day, 47; 53. Branches taught, oraphy, reading, writing, English grammar, geography K. C. Betts, teacher. Salary, $105.

The second, commencing December 29, 1840, and ending February 20, 1841; whole number of scholars, 26; males, 14; females, 21. above, Jatharine Colby, The third, commencing March 15, 1841, June 14, 1841. Amount paid teacher, male, $120. Whole number of scholars in attendance, 72; average number, 32 per day; males, 36; females, 36. The fourth school commenced March

In the forepart of the year 1841, Benjamin F. Reed taught at $40 per month; Catharine Colby taught at $20 permonth. Maria Allen was employed for a short time. In November, 1841, John H. Crowell as employed for six months for $35 per month, and Cathayine Colby for three months, at $20 per month.

At that time, there being an insufficient amount of money in the treasury to pay the teachers, a tax was assessed upon each scholar, according to the number of days in attendance, to make up the deficiency.

From a daily register, as kept by William A. Brown teacher in School District No, 1, Defiance Township, 1839 and 1840, we copy the following list of scholars who attended the school during the quarter commencing December 4, 1839, and ending February 28, 1840, and adding the name of parent or guardian.

Parents Or Quardians Parents Or Guardians

The following is a list of names that appeared on the books at that time. These lists are not given because of any great amount of history they contain, but they give the names of many of the early pioneers of this county and their descendants which at this writing, 1882, we could not obtain from any other source, and we think they should appear in this work for future reference :

Parents Or Quardians. Pupils Parents Or Guardians, Pupils

In the season of 1841, agreeable to a resolution adopted by the Board of Directors of School District No. 1, the same consisting of Kdwin Phelps, James §. Greer and Jonas Colby, with Levi Colby as Clerk, the walls of a brick schoolhouse were erected on the west side of Wayne Street, between Fourth and Fifth, and the building partly finished by Timothy Dame, contractor and builder, at a cost of $800, which was raised by tax upon the taxable property of the district. In September, 1842, an additional tax was levied for the finishingup of the lower part of said school building, and was continued in the use of District No. 1, till the adoption of the Union school system in 1851, when it was finished up and used as a union school building.

We append a list of the names of the Directors, Teachers, Clerks and Treasurers, from 1840 to 1851, at which time the Union or graded school system was adopted, as will appear by reference to a letter from F. Hollenbeck, of Perrysburg, Ohio, which appears in connection with this sketch.

Dear Sir - Yours of the 19th instant received. In answer to your inquiries will say, that it is so long since I was in the school at Defiance that I have ceased to have any ''clean cut'' recollection of what then and there occurred - gencral impressions only remain. Of these, I will give such as occur to me while writing.

It may not be amiss to state, briefly, the facts and incidents which led immediately to the organization of the Union School at that place. I had taken a lively interest in popular education from my first arrival in the Maumee Valley, at Maumee City, in December, 1842, and discussed the subject wherever I went, whenever I could. The first Union School established in the valley was at Maumee City; the next at Perrysburg, then at Waterville and Toledo. By this time the public mind had become, generally, awakened to the subject.

Being at Defiance in the latter part of winter or early spring of 1851 on business, [learned the inadequate provisions of the town for the instruction of its youth. I suggested to some of the citizens of whom IL now remember Wolsey Welles, Dr. John Paul, William A. Brown, Frederick Stevens, William Carter, Esy., Boughton and probably others, the desirability of adopting and putting into practice the graded school system. The suggestion was received with a ready and cordial response, A huge difficulty, however, stood in the way. As the law then was, a school of that character could be established only by a majority vote of the district, and it was feared that could not be obtained. To prepare the minds of the people for the vote, it was determined to hold a a Teachers' Institute there, provided I could obtain proper persons to conduct it. I obtained them, but can now recall only one of them, Maurice Paige, Superintendent of the Maumee Schools and a ''live teacher." The institute was held ; many teachers attended ; the session was highly satis-

I was then requested to organize the school. I consented to "assume the pressure," my engagement being for one year. There was no material for a high school and the grades established were primary, secondary, intermediate and grammar schools, myself taking immediate charge of the latter, together with supervision of the others. My assistants were Miss Millie Woods in the primary department, and she was a superior teacher of that grade. Miss Maria Welles taught the secondary, and succeeded very well. The intermediate was taught by a young woman whose name I cannot now recall. She occupied the schoolhouse on the west side of the canal, near the Catholic Church building. Perhaps some one of the old citizens, or of my pupils remaining there, could give you her name. Of the latter, there remains, as I am informed (I give the names asI knew them), Fannie Holgate, Belle Holgate, Georgiana Richards, Mary Stevens, Amelia Howland, now Mrs. Peterson, Frank Brown, John Crowe, George Ferguson and John Kiscr. There may be others.

The common school branches only were taught, viz., spelling, reading, writing, geography, grammar, arithmetic, and I recollect I bad a very interesting class in natural philosophy. As to efficiency of the school, I refer you to my old pupils and their parents.

I must, however, be permitted to say this, that I do not believe there was ever in the State of Ohio a more pleasant and agrecable school than the department of which I had immediate charge. Teacher and pupils constituted a family which was in perfect sympathy and accord from the commencement to the close. Each one regarded it as owr school and was sensitively alive to the maintenance of its good name and character. When I think of my connection with that school, it is with unalloyed satisfaction, and [holt my old pupils in very dear and cherished remembrance. May blessings attend them during their lives.

When my year expired, the Board of Education fad not succeeded in finding my successor, and I remained until the commencement of the summer vacation.

I believe I have answered all your inquiries, but in haste, and perhaps in an unsatisfactory manner. If of service to you I shall be pleased. Make what use of it you deem best.

Institute

INSTITUTE. The Teachers' Institute of Northwestern Ohio held its first session in Defiance County, in the Methodist Episcopal Church, May 5, 1851. The

Comunittee of Arrangements were S. S. Sprague, W. P. Bacon, W. Welles, H. Sessions, M. Arrowsmith, W. Sheffield, W. C. Holgate, W. A. Brown, William Carter, J. M. Stilwill and C. L. Noble. The Board of Instruction was composed of the following persons, viz.: Hon G. B. Way, of Defiance, Francis Hollenbeck, A. H. Drummond, Maurice Paige (Superintendent of the "Maumee Schools), Edward Olney, |

Mrs. Mary A. Webb, Miss Mitchell and Miss F. Drummond - all from Maumee City and Perrysburg, as near as the writer hereof has been able to ascerbeck, of Perrysburg, tain. There were in attendance over seventy teachers, about two-thirds of whom were young ladies. About one-half of this number were of Defianve County, and the remainder from the counties of Williams, }'ulton, Henry and Paulding.

At a meeting of the qualified electors of School Districts No. 1 and 5, in the town of Defiance, held in pursuance of legal notice, for the purpose of adopting or rejecting the act for tho better regulation ° of public schools in cities, towns, etc., passed February 21, 1849, by the Leyislature of the State of Ohio, held at the court house in the town of Defiance, on the 8th day of March, 1851, George B. Way was chosen Chairman, Miller Arrowsmith, Assistant Chairman, and William A. Brown, Secretary of said meeting. A vote was then cast by the electors of said School Districts 1 and 5, for and against the adoption of said act aforesaid, and the whole number of votes cast was 82. For the adoption of, 44; against, 38; majority in favor of, 6.

At an election held in the court house March 25, 1851, by the electors of the united School Districts No. 1 and 5, for the election of Directors, John M. Stilwill acting as Chairman, Miller Arrowsmith as Assistant Chairman, and William A. Brown, Clerk, the following persons were duly elected as the first Board of Directors under his new organization: Woolsey Welles and Calvin L. Noble, for one year; John H. Kizer and J. B. Kimball, for two years; Hamilton Davison and John M. Stilwill, for three years.

The Board thus elected assembled at the office of Woolsey Welles, and organized the Boardof Education of the united School Districts No. 1 and 5, in Defiance, Defiance Co., Ohio, by electing Hamilton

John M. Stilwill, Treasurer. The Board thus organized proceeded to levy a tax of four mills on the dollar on the taxable property of the united districts for the support of teachers and other expenditures. It now became necessary to provide suitable buildings for the different departments and teachers for the same. It was therefore ordered by the said board that the old two-story brick schoolhouse of 1841, heretofore mentioned, be repaired and finished up for the Union School, and was known as the High School Building. The contract for the same was awarded to Henry B. Hall, at $421, to be completed by the Ist day of June, 1851. The services of Francis Hollen- Ohio, were secured as their first Superintendent, ata salary of $500 per annum, school to commence June 9, 1851.

Catholic Church aud now used as a dwelling house. The first teacher in this department was Mrs. Arietta Hutchinson, who consented to fill the position "briefly," until a suitable person could be found to fill her place. Mrs. Hutchinson taught three weeks, when Miss Marietta Knapp took her place, at a salary of $150 per annum. Miss Knapp taught several terms, and then followed Miss Emeline Shead.

Miss Maria Welles taught the Secondary in tho building still standing on the corner of Water and Jefferson streets, at a salary of $150 per annum.

at a salary of $150 per annum. The next teacher in this department was Miss Susannah Myers. At a special election held at the court house May 22, 1865, liy the qualified voters of the Defiance United against levying a tax of $18,000 upon said district, for the purpose of purchasing a site and erecting suitable school buildings for said district, the whole number of votes cast was 107, of which 89 were in favor of and 18 against levying the tax.

The matter now being in the hands of the board of the district, it was unanimously voted by them at a meeting of the board, held May 26, that the sum of $18,000 be levied according to the vote of the people of said district. That $6,000 be levied in 1865, $6,000 in 1866, and $6,000 in 1867.

A beautiful selection for a site, at the head of Clinton street, commanding a fine view of the entire city, was purchased, upon which the buildings were erected.