Fostoria City

Fostoria City

In the histories of Loudon and Jackson Townships, a large number of names and a few incidents connected with the founding of the villages once known as Rome and Risdon, are presented to the reader. In this part of the chapter other names and incidents connected with the actual settlement of the old villages, up to the period of their consolidation under the name "Fostoria. " and the story of the city's progress are related - the information being almost solely based on pxtblic and private records.

The location of the city on the northwest quarter of Louilon Township, parts of Sections 31 and 32, Jackson Township, and part of Section 1. Washington Township, Hancock County, extending into the southeastern corner of Wood County gives to the city an influence guarded by the principles of localization, i. e. it claims a large portion of each of three counties as tributary territory, without creating local jealousies. The eastern fork of Black Swamp Portage flows through the northwestern corner of the city, while one of the feeders of Wolf Creek approaches it from the south. The land upon which the city stands is slightly rolling north and south of the ridge on which TiflSn Street runs, and broken along Portage Creek.

The early settlers of Fostoria were not backwoodsmen previous to their coming here. They were from a region cleared bv their fathers, and were little accustomed to the use of the ax. To them a heavy growth of timber and the great fallen trees were formidable. A tree was not then, as now, a little mine of wealth - it was a nuisance to be rid of and to the task of destroying the forest and subjugating the wilderness, the pioneers ajiplied themselves assiduously. However, the original forest has not entirely disappeared; oven where the woodman began his work of destruction, a new race of trees, planted in regular lines, has sprung uj) to relieve the face of the country and to offer to it that shelter and beauty of which the old time mania for improvement robbed it. There are many well-kept gardens, lawns and terraced grounds throughout the city, which, with the ti'ees ranged regularly along the parkways, lend a peculiar beauty to the city.

The geology of the district is referred to in the th'st chapter of the history of the county.* The lime manufactured at Fostoria from Niagara rock claims the following constituents: carbonate of lime, 55.40; carbonate of magnesia, 48. 'JS; silica, .20; alumina and iron, .<'>0. This analysis made about thirteen years ago, points out the lim(> produced from the Niagara, in Seneca County, to be eijual to that manufactured at Sj)ringtield and Carey.

The climate does not vary from that of any other part of the county. What it was when the pioneers first settled in the townships west of the Sandusky, may be gleaned from the following record, made by the pioneer John Crocker:

Squirrels destroyed wheat and corn in 1827. January .5, 1833, wild geese went toward October 30, 1827, snow fell six inches. lake; very forward spring.

The valuation and taxation of Fostoria for 1884 are shown as follows; 888 acres valued <it $891,090, and personal property valued at §520, 180 (a very low valuation), aggi-egating SI. 417, 270, or S4-18.10 per capita (po]ndation in 1880 within the county being 3,108). The total tax for 1884-85 was $82,087.82. together with $190 dog tax. The great increase in jtopulation since 1880 would point out a marked decrease in individual worth. The amount of actual moneys exjiended for year ending March 22. 1884, was $30, 78('). 34. The expenditures for year ending April 1, 1885, amount to about $28,000.

- D. p. Lloyd's and Bradner A Williams' quarries on the countT line, between ,Tacl<son and Perry Townships, just northwest of the old town of Risdon, produce a good building limestone, and a firel-class white stone for burning.

Thi> record of strata made while boring the Fostoria gas well in July and August, 18S5, and that of the wells at Findluv and Bowling (ireen are thus given:

The city is well endowed in tlie matter of railroads. No less than five important roads run in and out, affording all the advantages which thirty-four passenger-carrying trains per day may offer. The Baltimore & Ohio, the Lake Erie & Western and the " 'Nickel Plate' ' riin east and west, and the Columbus,

The first notice of the location of Fo.storia dates back to 1825. In this year Neal McGaffey and some companions from Fort Ball, while engaged in the search for Elijah Bra}i;on's child (September 20, 1825), camped where Rome Village was subsequently platted. His companions named the camp Fort Mc- Gaffey.

Original Snrrci/ and Additions. - Rome was platted on the east half of the southwest quarter of Section <) (lands patented to Crocker, April 1-"), 1833), Town 2 north, Range 13 east, by David Risdon for Roswell Crocker. August 31, 1832. This extended each side of Main Street, extending north fi'om South Street to North Street, and the name was suggested as an antithesis to the very unclassical one of Fort McGaffey. Foster's addition was surveyed by Thomas Heming for Charles W. Foster, in November, 1840.

Foster's second addition to Rome was sui'veyed by Gideon Jones, in November, 1849, and January, 1850, for Charles V,\ Foster. This extended from High Street, on both sides of Main, to the angle of Periy Street, and along South Main Street, on west side.

Frank's addition was surveyed by Gideon Jones for Liither M. Frank, May 11, 1852. This was the southeast corner of the east half of the northwest quarter of Section 6, Loudon Township.

James Anderson's addition, west of and adjoining original town, was platted in November, 1853, by Gideon Jones, siu'veyor. In the history of the churches reference is made to this last addition to the old village of Rome.

Risdon was laid off on the northwest corner of Section 6, Township 2 north. Range 13 east, and approved September fi, 1832, for the owner, John Gorsuch, by the siu'veyors David Risdon and William L. Henderson.

Additions to Fostoria. - In September, 1853, the inhabitants of Risdon petitioned the county board to be annexed to the incorporated village of Rome. This petition was granted in January. 1854. In July of that year the name was changed to Fostoria, and all additions to Rome or Risdon since that date are known as additions to Fostoria.

C. V\'. Foster and M. P. Skinner donated lots for public iise to Fostoria, in January and February, 1855. James and E. M. Fisher's addition to Fostoria was surveyed by G. Jones, November 15, 1855. M. P. Skinner's addition, on west half of northwe.st quarter of Section 6, Town 2. Range 13 east, was surveyed by Gideon Jones, May 31, 1850. Foster's first addition to Fostoria was siu'veyed by Gideon Jones, in September, 1859, for Charles A\ . Foster on a jjart of the east half of northwest (juarter of Section (1, Town 2, Range 13. James Fisher's second addition of out-lots on east end of south half of northeast quarter of Section 0,Town 2, Range 13, was sm-veyed in May, 1860, by Gideon Jones. Andrew Emerine's subdivision of west end of outlot 2, Fo.storia. was surveyed December 17, 1860, by Gideon Jones. Skinner's addition, west of his first addition, was surveyed in January. 1861, by Gideon Jones. Charle? W. Foster's subdivision of out-lot 9. in Fostoria, was siu'- veyed by Gideon Jones in February, 18(53. Bement's addition was surveyed in -August, 181)5. for A. S. Bcment. each side of t'nion Street fi-om the Lake

Erie & Western llailroad to Fremont Street. Southern addition was made in October, ISI)-"), by G. H. Heming. for Eos-well Crocker, Joel Hales, J. F. Kichart. Thomas S. Green, Daniel Dunham and Susannah M'. Dunham. James Anderson's second addition, on northwest corner of west half of southwest half of Section f), was surveyed by G. Jones in Octol)er, ISCilJ. David Keller's subdivision of out-lots 'JS and 2U, between William, Union and Fremont Streets east to the alley, was surveyed by Dennis Maloy in December, ISOlt. R. C. Caple's addition, south of Plank Koad tt) Union Street and east to Caple Street, was laid out by Dennis Maloy in March, 1871. Benjamin Leonard's addition. Section 81, Jackson Township, was siu'veyed by Dennis ]\Ialoy in November, 1S71. Foster's subdivision of south half of northwest quarter of Section 5, Loudon Township, was surveyed in ^Fay. 1N7".^. by Dennis Maloy. for Charles W. and Lam-a Foster. Samuel Cadwallader's addition, being the west ])art of southeast quarter. Section (>, Town 2, Range l^ east, embracing 22.7ll acres, boiuided by Crocker, Poplar and Union Streets, was siu'veyed by John L. Fisher in Jutu\ 1872. Crocker's addition was surveyed in June. 1872, by John L. Fisher, for Roswell Crocker. C. W. Lj-tle and S. W. Dunham. This extended fi-om South to a point below Lytle Street, and from Wood to Kast Streets. Bradner' s addition was siu-veyed by Dennis Maloy in 1872, on north lialf of Section (S. Town 2 north, Range 13 east, for Thomas Kelly, A. Brown, I. Nestlerode, J. A. Bradner, W. H. Hambel, A. S. Williams and J. J. Myers. James Fritcher's addition was siu'veyed by Dennis Maloy in 1872. Anderson's addition, bounded by South and Hale Streets, extending fi'om coruity line to ^\"ood Street, was siu-veyed in 1S72, for J. L. Kenower. J. W. Bricker and F.liza Fritcher. Leonard & Emerine's addition was surveyed by Dennis Maloy in September, 1872. Emerine's addition was surveyed by James Lewis, and John Hielman's by James Lewis, in September. 1873. Williams' addition to Fostoria was surveyed by J. Lewis in November, 1873. In November, 187-1, the petition of Fostoria coimcil, praying for the annexation of contiguous territory in Sections 31 and 32, Town 3 north. Range 13 east, Jackson Townshiji, and in Town 2 north. Range 12 east, was gi-anted by the conmiissi oners. B. Leonard's subdivision, on Spruce Street, was surveyed by Dennis Maloy in 1874. J. L. Kenower & Co. 's addition was smweyed by Cook in July, 1874. J. L. Kenower's addition was surveyed by Cook in November, 1S7('). R. C. Caple' s subdivision of part of Lots MS, and 'M) was surveyed by James Lewis in Febraaiy. 1877. M. P. Skinner's first partition addition was made in June, 1S78. Foster. Sheldon & Co. 's addition was surveyed by Cook, in Februaiy, tSNi. I. Walding's subdivision was siu'veyed by James Lewis in October, 1881. Lewis Street. Fostoria. was sui-veyed for C. W. liytle by James Lewis in December. 1881; and J. L. Kenower's south division of out-lot No. 78. was surveyed in Sej)tember. 1882. by James Lewis.

Orijdtiir and Official Hisfori/ of Rome. - Rome Village was organized in 1S.")1, and tlie first village meeting held April 2 that year, when Charles W. Foster was elected mayor. P. J. Kinnaman. clerk, ami Charles Foster, treasurer. R. C. Caples, Jacob Fritcher. A. R. Brandenburg. Joel Hales and -lohn Gibbons were elected councilmeu; Seth H. Fairchilds, marshal: Charles Foster, treasurer. Ordinances for the government of Rome were ado])ted May 12. 1851. R. C. Cai)lcs was elected mayor in 18r)2, and P. J. Kinnaman and Charles Foster re-elected to their resjiective jiositions. Jacob Fritcher was chosen mayor in 18r)3 and re-elected in ISol. T. Hays was elected clerk in lN"i3 and Junius t^. Jones in 18-")4, Charles Foster still holding the office of treasui'er. '

The council of Rome, 1854, comprised Charles Foster. James Anderson, Joel Hales, R. C. Caples and P. D. Caples. The marshal was Jasper Taber, and street commissioner, John H. Dildine.

A petition was presented to the court of common pleas Jtily 1 1, 1854. asking that the name "Rome" be changed to "Fostoria. " This jietition was granted. At the close of the fiscal year, 1854. the exhibits of receipts gave $500.26, including $!239.47, earned over from 1853; and that of expenditui'es gave S"228.82, leaving a balance in favor of 1855 of S270.44. The expenses of the village government for 1851 were 89'). 87.

Oryanic and Official Hixfori/ of Fosloria. - A petition signed l)y \\'. Braden, Thomas Brian. H. I. Vosburgh. A\'. Weaver. A. S. Bement. E. F. Robinson, Ch. Bonnell, John O. Albert. Reuben Brian. I. M. Coe. John Wilson. George Gear, Lyman Kittell. Daniel Free. Abram Metz. Robert Dake, E. Bement, E. W. Thomas. D. D. Miller, H. W. Cole, James Lewis, Umphrey England and John M. Stewart was presented to the commissioners in 1853 (vide Transactions of the Commissioners' board - Chapter lY), asking the annexation of the west half of the northwest (juarter of Section 0. Loudon to Rome Village. This petition was granted January 2. 1854. and Rome and Risdon became imited under one government.

1857. - Charles W. Foster, D. Dunham. Israel Nestlerode. John Miller, Sr. , and Mon-is P. Skinner, council: Joseph Taber, marshal; Peter Carney, street commissioner.

1861. - Charles Foster. R. C. Caples, E. Bement. Martin Kingseed and Andi'ew Emerine, council; George W. Bronson. marshal, and J. Lewis, street commissioner.

1862. - James Leach, Thomas J. Green. Chris. Bonnell, Martin Kingseed and Andrew Emerine. council: F. Huffman, marshal, and Martin Adams, street commissioner.

1872. - J. J. Myers, J. L. Mickey and A. Emerine, council. AV. S. Eberly was elected attorney, and B. L. Caples street commissioner and marshal.

1874. C. Bonnell, J. L. Mickey and J. J. Myers, council. The attorney elected was John A. Bradner; marshal, James B. Fox, and .street commissioner, James Lewis.

1870. - R. W. Hale, C. AV. Thomas, John Wilson, council. The attorney was J. A. Bradner; marshal. J. B. Fox; street commissioner, J. Lewis, and assessor. B. L. Caples.

1884. Charles A. Henry, Isaac Warner and John Nolile, council: Alexander Brown, attorney; James B. Fox. marshal, and Nicholas Buiischer. street commissioner. The old meml)ers of the council elected in 1883 served until Ajiril, 1885.

Settlement and Progress. - The first settlers at Risdon were Heniy Welch. Jeremiah Mickey and John P. Gordon. John Gorsuch came in 1832. In the same year the Crockers and Fosters settled at Borne, and the beginnings of two villages were made. The work of progi'ess, however, mvist be credited to the late Charles W. Foster and his brother-in-law. Boswell Crocker; for to them is credited the beginnings of the commercial and manufacturing interests of the town of Bome. which they founded. In the following coj)y of the original agi'eement between John and Boswell Crocker and C. W. Foster the history of founding the village is told:

Wtnenseth, That the said Uoswell Crocker of the first part dolh agree to release and pay unto the parties of the second part, severally, one-fourth part of the profits arising from the sale of lots in the town of Rome, Seneca Co., Ohio, on the following conditions, namely;

Said Charles W. Foster and the said John Crocker doth severally agree to pa}- unto the said Roswell Crocker ¥5 per acre for one-fourth of what land the said town plat now contains. Now the sai(l John Crocker. Roswell Crocker and Charles W. Foster, for a company, each being bound lo pay according to his proportion all the expensesthat have accrued, or may accrue, after the public sale of said town lots, the said Roswell Crocker having one-half, J. Crocker and C. W. Foster each one-fourth. Then, after the public sale. Charles W. Foster agrees to become their agent, and do all their business, the said John and Roswell Crocker, concerning said town. For compensation for the same Charles W. Foster is to have the southwest corner block, next to the square, and the said John Crocker is to reserve one corner lot, and the said Roswell Crocker two. The said John Crocker furthermore agrees to help Charles W. Foster build a house, and Charles W. Foster is to pay him back for the same.

Following the agreement Bome Village was platted, and the first store opened. Let us look at this early commercial venture in the wilderness.

Foster & Crocker liought of Samuel ^A'aggoner, October Hi, 18152. calico, gingham, shirting, white flannel, buckram, linen, gi-een baize and frieze, aggi'egating SI 66. 36. and stindry dry goods amounting to §258,61. aggi'egating §424.97, beins the first bill of goods bought from Waggoner. A second bill amounting to S261.81 for silk and notions, and a thu-d bill of §98.31, gives a total of §785.09 as the value of goods received from Samuel Waggoner before the close of October. 1832. Aliout the same time Williams & Co.. of Buffalo. N. Y., shipped to this firm 100 potinds of nails, §7: 163 pounds of coffee at 16 cents. §26.08; 92 pounds of toVtacco at 11 cents, §10.12: a keg of jjowder, §5.50, and a, chest of tea, §44.16.

October 29 they received from Hollister & Ciu'tiss, of Buffalo. N. Y.. a -tock of gi-oceries, <^lass. notions and paper, valued at ?'JU8.;i7; antl from I'ool A: Cheesman. of Buffalo, a stock of glassware and crockery valued at S4.(|.4;{. November 2(). lJs;!'2. they received from Josiah Hedges, of Tiffin, a stock of cutlery valued at $4;5.;iS. Deceml)er 1. 1S8'J, they Ijought of fiercer i*e Ebbert. of Tiliin. a stock of felt and wool hats valued at ^'-Wt. and from J. A: A. Pittiufer a stock of leather valued at TiO. In Decemb(>r. i.S;{;{, C. \V. Foster piu'chased from Dr. James Fisher, of Titlln, a stock of medicines valued at §14. 1(5. and within the year liS88 sundiy drugs valued at about SH'i. In Januaiy. lS8:i. the firm began dealing with Grant & Kridler for boots and shoes, the lirst bill amounting to !? 182. 50. During the years 1832-38 they piu-chased whiskies from Samuel Waggoner. In June. 1833, they began dealing with Bostwick, Taylor A: Co., dry goods merchants, and Corning & ^\'alker. hardware merchants of New York City, the tirst bill with Bostwick & Co. lieing SO'jd. lu February, 1834, they inu'chased a small lot of tinware from A\'alker A: Co.. of Tiffin, and a keg of tobacco from Milton McNeal, of Tiffin. The inventory of merchandise in store May If). 1834. places the value of stock at SUuN.Oti, increased to S1,2(M) in June. 1831). and to $2.(ill').(j(t in April. 1837.

The first day-book of Crocker & Foster at hand is dated March 14. 1838, being the second book opened. The tirst entry is a pair of boots, S3. 37, for Elijah Berry's son. March 1 o the following entries are made:

Tiffin and Findkuj State Boad. - After the house of Crocker & Foster was established at Rome, it became evident to the founders of the village that a road fi-om Tiffin to Findlay was necessary, and they had little trouble in convincincr themselves that the shorter line for such a road would be via Rome. A bill to establish a road between the two county seats was before the Legislature. It is related that Mi\ Foster visited Columbus and had the words "via Fostoria" inserted, where the original bill read "fi'om Tiffin to Findlay. " This bill passed and the act was approved. On retui'ning he hired one John Patterson to open a tavern in the wilderness on the line which he desired, and before the viewers came he had a few men underbrush a road and break it by running sleighs repeatedly over it. so that the viewers would have as little difficulty in being convinced of the imjiortance of running the road via Rome as he had. On the arrival of the viewers, they were asked up to Patterson's Tavern, two miles from Rome, and they, beholding the evidences of progress, located the Tiffin and Findlay road via Rome. The settlers in the less favored districts were enraged, but the old highway, between Tiffin and Findlay, continued in use until the direct line was opened.

The log-cabins of Rome and Risdon in 1886. when the Crocker Saw-mill was erected, were Crocker & Foster' s store, C. ^\'. Foster' slog-cabin. James Anderson's, Levi Johnson's. Roswell Crocker's on East Tiffin Street; Elisha Sabin's. opposite Crocker' s cabin ; AMlliam Cadwallader's. above Charles Fosters' present residence; Abram Gibbons, on East Tiffin Street: John Cooper's, just west of the present "Earl House;" David FeiTier's. rear of Harbaagh's drug store; Baer's cabin, near the new Union schoolhouse, between Rome and Risdon; Randal Hale's tavern, near the corner of the public square; Jacob Kizer and George Hampshire had their cabins here also. Eli Williams' cabin, on East Tiffin Street, was sold to A\"illiam Fox and purchased from him by Roswell Crocker for $30. Alonzo Lockwood's log house stood where John Greens present residence is; he biiilt the second fi-ame dwelling on the town site, the same is now the John Green residence. Samuel Laird ke]3t a tavern in a log building opposite Foster's store in 1S8(). John Hooper, a carpenter, who worked on the tirst frame house erected here, had a log-cabin two miles southwest of the public square. James Wiseman, who lived in a log-cabin, one mile southwest, erected a saw-mill, constructed a mill-race, and earned on the milling business there for years; he built the first brick farmhouse in the neighborhood of Fostoria in 1837. Marshall Hays, the first tailor, resided on West Tiffin Street, built the fii-st brick dwf>lling hoiise in the south part of Fostoria. John Brooks, who built a frame house in 1837. brought a stock of molds for his counterfeiting establishment here.

named, lived three miles away, and the carrier was intercepted close by. This system obtained until Dr. T. J. Bricker was appointed postmaster and established his office at Rome. David Hays was commissioned postmaster at Stoner or Rome in 1S45.

In 1847 the mail was can-ied by Bill Lowr)', from Bucyrus. He would come every Sunday at 2 P. M. , from Bucyrus, and every Tuesday fiom Perrysburtr. The rate of postage was 10 cents jier letter.

October 1, 1885, Tiffin and Fostoria were created immediate delivery offices, J. R. Owen and Liss Leedy were appointed special messengers at Fostoria.

Pliijsiciaiis of Fosforia. - Marcus Dana settled in the northern part of Loudon in 1834; he died and his body was interred in the old cemetery, but was removed to the new one in 18r>(>. Alonzo Lockwood came to Rome about the same time, and resided there until his death, .Se])tember '2o. 1878. Dr. Kirkham settled at Rome in 188<) or 1887; Simon Bricker, who died in 18r)(), and whose body was the first inteiTed in the new city cemetery settled at Rome about 1843. George Patterson came about 1840. is now in Texas. Robert C. Caples ojjoned his office at Risdon in 1843. Drs. Cole, Snyder and Russell were here prior to 1S43. Gr. A. Hudson came in 1850, died in 18fiU. J. W. Bricker in isru); Dr. Metz, in 1854. R. W. Hale came in 1856 and served as military surgeon during the war. A. M. Blackman came in 1800. sei-\-ed with the Union Army and retiu'ned after the war. E. Rang(>r,of Millgi-ove, practiced here as early as 18f)(). AV. M. Cake, had his office in Bement's Block, in 18(50. A. J. Longfellow settled here in 1861. In later years came P. E. Ballon, Charles A. Hem-y, George L. Hoege, Park L. Myers, J. H. Non-is, F. J. Shaufelberger, W. H. Squires, A. S.Williams, L. G. Williams, John H. Williams. M. S. Williamson, Alvin Watson, I. M. Young, and others. Several names not here mentioned will be found recoi'ded in Chapter VII.

Enrhj Mauiifacturing Induxivicfi. - The first manufacturing industry in Loudon Townshi]> was the horse-power gi-ist-mill. established by David Ferrier abimt 1S34, on the head of Wolf Creek. In June. 1874, one of the stones used in this mill was ])reseuted to the editor of the Fostoria Kfi-ieir. as a memento of the humble beginnings of the township.

The Crocker Saw-mill, on South Street, within eight rods of the present Uoswell Crocker home (the first frame house ever erected at Fostoria), was established in 1836. l)y Roswell Crocker. In August, 1836, C. W. Foster had sawing done valued at ^6'J.73, to build th(> warehouse which took the place of this old log warehouse. The house is now occupied by Mrs. Lunt. and stands on the south side of South Street, west of Main Street about fifteen rods. Into this mill machinery was introduced for grist milling, and Mr. C'rocker carried on the saw and giist mill business for some years, when he converted the building into a grist-mill. In 1843 he sold to Samuel Carbough, who after some time converted it into a distillei"j'.

- February 15 , 1861, a call was signed by C. W. Foster, J. V. .Tones and Robert Adams, Republican Township Committee of Fostoria, requesting the Kepulilicans to meet February 2n, at W. ( '. Turner's ofBce to tate action in reference to the selection of a postmaster.

In 1843 Roswell Crocker erected a grist and saw-mill at Springville. wLicli he operated for two years, when he returned to Fostoria, where John Crocker and C. W. Foster had erected a building for him, the same as now used for the manufacture of the ' ' Magic Washing Machines. ' ' in which he operated a grist-mill himself, or leased until 1865, when the building was sold to Fullerlon & Ferguson, who ran it for some time. They moved the machinery to Hudson. Steuben Co.. Ind.

Braden & Yunker erected a grist-mill in 1853 or 1854 (near their carding works), and introduced the best machinery known at that time. The buildings and machinery were destroyed by an explosion some years ago, and young Brown and Wilson were killed. A brick building was erected almost on the site of the old mUl. by Mr. Hammond. He sold the concern to Eversole <.V Noble, when another explosion occurred, killing a man named Hadley, an<l bruying one Overmyer in the debris. The latter, however, was dug out, and recovered fi'om his injuries. Eversole & Noble sold their interest to the Aylesworth Bros. . who sold to Benjamin Leonard, and subsequently repurchased the concern. There are no records whatever on which to found a history of this industry. What is given is taken from recitals of facts by old settlers.

A carding-mill was constructed by Braden & Yunker about 1850. The Lees conducted a fiu-niture store, and were interested in a grist-mill. This mill was set on tire in 1847 and destroyed.

John Fritcher established the first harness shop about 1840. Jacob Fritcher established his saddlery in 1842. James Lewis had his shop, in 1840 or 1847, at Risdon. Andi'ew Emerine established his harness shop in 1848, three years after his arrival here. Thomas J. Pillars, a brother of Judge Pillars, established harness shops previous to 1848. AVilliam Weaver and Jeremiah Coe were harness-makers at Rome in 1849. John W. McDonnell, who came with his parents in 1842, is one of the oldest harness-makers in town. Samuel Gildersleeve was an early harness-maker. Jacob Kridler, sometime^ previous to 18(11. Isaac Warner opened his harness shop at Fostoria in 1S61. having previously worked for Andrew Emerine from October, 1855, at Rome.

Risdon. - In 1847 S. G. Malony moved to Risdon, and thence to Rome in 1851, voting for the name "Fostoria" subsequently. He states that in 1847 Mrs. Mickey, Sr. , kept the Mickey House. Braden & Yunker had a carding-mill at Risdon at this time, and William Braden conducted the postoffice, with Childs. assistant postmaster, and owned a fui'niture shop where the Aylesworth Mill now stands. E. AV. Thomas was a gi-ocer; James Lewis, harnessmaker: Dani«^l Ragan. tailor; John Quincy Albert, shoemaker. This trio worked in a small frame building, w-hich stood in what is the center of Perry and Elm Streets. John Becker was also a shoe-maker. On the west side of Perry, fronting on Elm Street, was the Bement Foundry and Plow Shop, making, in 1855, about 1,500 plows.

The Lee Grist-mill was bmued about May 1. 1847 (the owner's wife is alleged to have biuned it), after the mortgagors had sold the machinery' and Lee moved to Indiana.

Dr. Dana and Dr. Caj)les were the physicians at Risdon. Henry L. Caples kept a dry goods store until 1853 jvhen he and Luther W. Caples moved to INIissouri. P. D. Caples had a farm close by and L. Caples also had a farm on the southwest corner of Jackson Township. Dr. Dana died at Risdon about 1853. The Methodist Episcopal society had a church building on the east bank of Portage River, which was an old hewed log building in 1847. Rev. !Mr. Elliot was resident preachei'.

William Braden moved to Illinois and died on the Kankakee Reservation about 180'J. James Robinson accompanied him to Kankakee in l.sr)7, and is now a resident of Chelianse. 111. Dan Hammer, and one of the Martins were convicted of crimes snch as horse stealinji;. and served in the jienitentiarv.

Th(> Hammer family, notorious in SL>me resjiects, were here. George Hei.s established a brick yard on the Portage River j)rior to 1847. In 1848 S. G. and J. T. C. Malony established a brickyard north of Heis". Heis died November T). 1SS4. Moffitt established a yard south of Malony' s. in 1854, and made the brick which are now in the Foster store building.

John Vroman and the Morgans were old storekeepers at Risdon. Jeremiah Mickey, while making a ditch to convey water to his house, was biu'ied by the cla.y caving in. jiist after he warned his own daughter and Widow- Jacob's daughter to keep away. Heck Thompson, a negro barber, married to an Indian half-breed, was the tirst colored citizen of Risdon.

About 184'J one Smith opened a hotel on Union Street, in the same house now occupied by Mrs. Schultz. A cannage factory was operated by George Geer on Jackson and Union Streets. This industrv' employed sixteen men. Between 1847 and 1851 Geer lost two wives by death and married the third. He died penniless, in Oregon, within the last decade.

S. G. ilalony opened a gi'oceiy nortli of the Foster Elevator, in 1852. In 1S55 he estalilished his furniture store in partnership with L. S. AVells. who opened a furniture shop at Rome, about 1841). Joseph Emmett also had a furniture shop. He moved to Iowa.

Bcfiinuiug of the Brick- Biiikliii;/ Era. - The tirst three brick residences at Fostoria were erected previous to 1845 by Braden, R. C. Caples at Risdon, and one. the first, Marshal Hays', at Rome, the latter occupying the lot south of Foster's new block. T. B. Jacobs. Andrew Emerine and Edwin Bement erected the first of the modern brick houses in 18<5(M')2. The fii-st brick business block was erected by C. ^\'. Foster, now occupied by Foster & Co. Joel Hale built the crockerA' store during the war. Andrew Emerine built the brick house now occupied by George Emerine. Leonard Morgan. John Andes, Martin Kingseed and Liner built each a brick house, filling the lot between the "Hays House" and Tiffin Street, just aft(>r the war. This is a very important business block. The Andes Opera House Block and the Foster Bank Block are buildings of which any city might feel proud.

Methodist Episcopal Church was organized at Risdon in 1833 by Rev. Mr. Chase, who was siicceeded immediately by Rev. Elam Day. The tii"st house of worship was a hewed log-house on the north side of High Street (now Summit Street), near the creek, built in 1833-34 at Risdon. on the Hancock County side. This was used until 1852, when the late fi'ame building was erected l)v Rev. Mr. Collier. This frame was sold to Dr. Ballou in March, 1885, and toru down. It stood on the northeast corner of Fi-emont and Main Street, just south of the present Methodist Episcojial Church. There are no records in existence dealing with the church here in earlv davs. In 184<) Rev.

Seymoiu' was preachor. Revs. Jewett and Elliott were here at an early day, with Raymond, presiding elder. Revs. Jewett and Crabbs were here in 1848 with Thomas Barkdnll. presiding elder. Revs. Leonard Hill and Lee came in 1840; Rev. Milligan succeeded Rev. Lee in 1850; Revs. Collier and J. P. Pelton were here in IN-^l-^'i, and the former with Rev. Monett in 18r)'i-r)3: Rev. Mouett was here alone in 1853; Rev. Nathan Taylor in 1855; Revs. Collier and Lansing in 1850; Rev. J. A. Shannon in 1858. About 1847 Rev. James Anderson established what was known as the Methodist Church in Rome. He erected a frame church building on what is now Wood Street, on the west line of the town of Rome. This building, which was never plastered, had split bass-wood seats without backs. In 1851 he wished the Risdonites to come to his church and complete it. but they took an opposite course and erected the Fremont Street Church. Anderson's Church was sulisequently devoted to manufaetiiring industries until destroyed by fii-e about two years ago. Among Ml'. Anderson's fri(>nds were some of the old settlers of Risdon who moved to Rome. The Collier revival did away with the iliscord the two churches created.

Rev. A. B. Poe was pastor in 1860, and John Graham, elder. 'Mi. Poe was appointed chaplain of the Seventy-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry* in 1801, I'eturned home and died. Rev. W. S. Lunt came in the fall of 18(51. James Hayes was local preacher in 18fi2. In June, 18(i"2. Dr. J. W. Bricker, Junius V. Jones and James Leach were added to the stewards. Rev. William Callahan was secretary in 1862-63. In June, 1863, E. J. Padgham was elected secretary, and holds the office still. In October, 1803, A. B. Poe returned, and was appointed jjastor. Rev. John Farley was appointed pastor in 1S04. In the fall Rev. G. Lease was appointed preach(>r, and H. S. Bradley, presiding elder.

The Parsonage Building Committee, appointed December 27. ]8()6, comprised Rev. G. Lease, R. C. Caples, J. F. Ritchart, J. J. Myers. I. W. Nestlerode and E. J. Padgham. A piece of land was ])urchased from James Williams for |00(l, on what is now the Sandusky road, in March. 1867, and May 15, 1867, the contract for building the parsonage was awarded to Peter Buissey for $3,326; work completed in Febiiiary, 1868.

The preachers who have served here since 1806 are named as follows: Charles Reynolds, 1867; W. S. Lunt and S. B. Maltbie. 1870; John L. Bates, 1871; A. Hollington. 1872; Franklin Marriott. 1873; J. A. Ferguson, 1874; D. D. Mather, 1S76; L. S. Bieler, 187!l; T. L. Wiltsie, 1881; R. Wallace, 1881, and Rev. L. N. Albright, the ]iresent pastor. The presiding elders for the same period were L. C. Wel)ster. 1868; W. W. Winters, 1872; J. Ayers, 1873; W. S. Paul, 1875; G. Lease, 1879, and L. C. Webster. 1883. A building committee, appointed Januaiy 16. 1882, were J. F. Ritchart, Dr. J. W. Bricker and Norman Saltsman. Before the completion of the chiu'ch, in 1885, Dr. Hale took Dr. Bricker" s place on the committee. Andi'ew Emerine succeeded J. L. Kenower as treasurer. The building contract was sold to I. L. Cramer, of Fostoria. and work on foundation begun in 1883. Green & Hiel man completed the contract in the summar of 1885 at a cost of about f20,00(\ and the building and furnishing was finished in the fall of 1885 at a total cost of about $30,01)0. The society made many personal sacrifices toward the erection

The officers of the church in 1884 were Eli Tebles, George Sanders and James Hayes, local preachers; R. C. Caples, M. D. ; E. J. Padgham, John Nobles. Thomas Green, Samuel Ernest, John Non-is, P. D. Caples, N. P. liobbins, stewards; A. S. AVilliams, S. "\A'. Bricker, A. J. Longfellow. E. W. Hale, B. L. Caples. Andi-ew Emerine, Fletcher Ritchart, X. Saltsmau, H. J. Tjockhart and Charles Foster, trustees; A. T. McDonnell, James Hayes, D. Sprout, Israel Nestlerode, Thomas Billyard, Samuel Stearns, C. H. Stewart, George Coopei', Noah Stahl. class leaders; C. H. Stewart, superintendent of Sunday-school. The membership is about 400.

Methodist Protestant Church was organized at Fostoria some years prior to that now known as the Methodist Church, and a house of worship was erected at the corner of Poplar and Centre Streets.

Methodint Church of Fostoria. formerly the Methodist Protestant Church, was reorganized under State law August 2, 1874, Rev. J. S. Thorp, pre siding. Levi S. Wells was chosen class leader; C. S. Reynolds. C. Wilkinson and 3Irs. Ann McDonnell, stewards. During the building of the late house of worshij) in 1874-75, James R. ^\'illiams took charge of the carpenter work, and completed the building for S-.OOO, August 19, 184.").

^United Brethren Churcli of Fostoria dates its regular organization back to 18()4, when Rev. Reuben French was apjiointed preacher, but long prior to this the preachers of Seneca Ciicuit aj)peared here. Among the original members were Rev. Reuben French (the second pastor), Jacob Kieser, Peter Webljer, Michael Schesler. Samuel Young, Abram Overholt. W. Fox and Rev. Levi Moore. Isaac Warner joined the society in 1802 or 1803, and has been trustee for the last twelve years. Truman Bever. Hemy Murlich, John Snyder and Solomon Yandersoll are the trustees. This society was incorporated August 10. 1870. T. D. Ingle presided, with Joseph S. Overholt secretary of the meeting. The trustees elected were G. Biles. J. S. Overholt and Isaac Crouse. The membership at present is 208. Rev. J. Beaver, father of the mayor, has been connected ministerially with the chtu-ch for over sixty-nine years.

A reference to the histoiy of Eden Township will show that the first society of this denomination was organized at Melmore. Since that time, however. Fostoria has won the headquarters of the church in this county, and for this reason the following chronological and historical review of the chmxh is given in this chapter.

In Aj)ril, 1835, the Conference was held at Crawford City, Ohio. Joseph Beaver. Jacob Newman and Josejih Logan were licensed to preach, and Jeremiah Brown was elected jjresiding elder. The stations of traveling preachers were Sandusky Circuit, B. Moore and Joseph Beaver; Maumee. S. Lilly - bridge; Scioto, John Alsaj): Richland. John Davis; Peel Creek, B. F. Kaufman; Samuel Hiestand. Bishop. John Dorcas was elected presiding elder in 1837. In April. 1S3S. the conference was held at Stoner's Schoolhouso near

In March. 1840, the Conference assembled at Phillip Betz's house. H. G. Spayth was elected presiding elder. Alfi-ed Spraylin, Jacob Newman, S. Lil lybridge, M. Long. B. J. Needles and Jonathan Thomas were the preachers.

In 1S41 the conference met at King's Schoolhonse. Richland County, with Jacob Erb. bishop, presiding. Jeremiah Brown was elected jiresiding elder, and Alfi-ed Spracklin preacher of the Seneca Circuit.

The conference of 1842, held at Monclova, Lucas Co., Ohio, was presided over by Bishop Kumber. John Davis and Jeremiah Brown were elected presiding elders of the western and eastern districts respectively, and Alfi'ed Spracklin was continued as preacher of the Seneca Circuit.

In 1848 the conference met at Beaver Creek Schoolhouse with Bishop Kumber. Jr., presiding: the same elders were elected, and Spracklin continued in charge of Seneca Circuit.

In 1844 the conference was held at Jacob Games' house in April. Samuel Long, still living near Kansas Village, was appointed presiding elder for the eastern district, and Samuel Hadley, preacher for Seneca Circuit. In 1845 J. Garber and W. Harrington were appointed preachers of the Seneca Circuit, and S. Long, presiding elder. John C. Bright took IMi-. Garber's place on this circuit. In 1846 the conference was held at Melmore. J. C. Bright and "Wesley Harrington were appointed preachers. The conference of 1847 was held in Wood County. John Davis was appointed presiding elder, and the same preachers reappointed. The conference of 1848 was held at Melmore. At this time Honey Creek Circuit was established, and all appointments in Seneca Circuit east of the Sandusky River were attached to Bellevue ^Mission of Honey Creek Circuit. John Davis was appointed preacher of Seneca Circuit, and D. Glancy, of Honey Creek. A second conference was held in October, 1848, in Liicas County. Green Creek Circuit was established with J. C. Bright, pastor. This conference was held for the purpose of changing date of conference.

In 184!) W. Herrington was appointed preacher of Green Creek, and S. Long and J. Martin, of Seneca Circuit. In 18")() Green Creek was attached to the western district, and R. Wicks, appointed preacher. In 18.51 J. Newman was appointed preacher of Green Creek, and John Curts. of Seneca.

In 1852 Seneca. Green Creek and Salem Circuits were grouped as Findlay District, with A. Berry, presiding elder: G. Schnider. preacher of Seneca, and M. Long, of Green Creek. At this time there were 300 members in the Seneca Circuit, and 150 in the Green Creek Cii-cuit. In 1854 Seneca and Green Creek Circuits were added to the Sandusky District, and M. Long appointed preacher in the tirst named, and John French in the last named. In 1855 Libert}-, Bettsville and dinger appointments of Seneca Circuit, were attached to the Sandusky Circuit: Attica to Sandusky District. j\I. Bulger was appointed t > Attica, and A. Biddle and S. Foster to Sandusky, and William Jones to Green Creek.

In September, 185(5, the conference was held at Flat Rock. M. Bulger was continued at Attica. D. S. Caldwell, of Seneca, and James Long and H. Cnrtiss. of Green Creek. In 1857 S. Jacoby was appointeil to Attica.

In 1858 Flat Rock was detached fi'om Green Creek, and Attica Mission iiamed Attica Circuit, with S. Jacoliy preacher, and M. Long preacher at Flat Rock; James L')n^ at Seneca and S. T. Lane at Green Creek.

(The New England Mission was organized l)y this conference in 1858, to carrv o:i the wo;-k of thtnr church in Massachusetts. J. C. Bright went

In 185U J. Crouse liecamc a member of Sandusky Conference; S. F. Altman took charge of Attica Circuit; James Long of the Seneca Circuit; S. T. Lane of Green Creek; S. Lindsay of Flat Rock.

In 1864. Seneca, I. Crouse; Attica, S. Jacoby; Green Creek, S. Foster; Flat Rock. S. F. Altman: Fostoria. R. French. " In 1864, Loudon, Stopes, Fostoria, Independence and Smith's missions were detached fi-om Carey, and Fostoria Circuit was estalilished.

In 186.") the conference was held at Fostoria. The missions known as Seneca Union. Honey Creek Chapel and Liberty were iletached from Soneca Circuit; Base Line fi'om Benton Circuit, and Berwick fi'om Yau Lne Circuit, and all formed into the Honey Creek Circuit. G. Bender, of Attica; Isaac Crouse, of Honey Creek: S. T. Lane, of Seneca; G. Hoover, of Flat Rock; William Miller, of Green Creek, and R. French, of Fostoria.

In 1867. T. D. Ingle. Fostoria: S. Essex. Seneca: "William Neville. Attica; M. Long. Flat Rock: R. K. AN'yant, Green Creek. I. Crouse was appointed secretary of the conference in 1867, and has held the position to the present time.

St. Wendelin^s Catholic Church dates back to 1849, when the first frame chiu'ch building was erected on Wood and Railroad Streets, by Franz DiUery, John Omlor, Diobold Omlor, John Bick, John Shoen, John Portz, Nicholas Portz, Michael Lynch, James McDonel and others, which was attended by priests from New Reigel once a month until Father Roetzer was appointed by Bishop Rappe and stationed at Findlay. About the year 1859. Father Behrens succeeded. At the beginning of the war Father Dechaut was appointed, and during his administration the frame chm-eh. which had been poorly built, was repaired at a cost of SI. 100. In 18<)4 he was succeeded by Father Yattmau. About 1868 Father Puetz came and remained until the appointment of Father J. B. Jung. About 1875 the latter was succeeded by Rev. M. Arnoldi. who has been resident pastor for the last ten years, and to whom is credited the building of the jiresent brick and stone church, begun in 1879 and completed in 1880, except the spire. In 1855 Martin Kingseed moved to Fostoria, from Tiffin. Prior to this date Franz Dillery. Jr., Martin Schalk. Philip Schalk. Jacob Bick. Hubert Bettinger, John Bettinger (now near Toledo). Nicholas and George Emerine, of Hancock County, John Lumberjack. John Persh, Philip Burcher. George Zeigman, Michael Clancey, George Huth, Jacob Huth and others were early members.

Baptist Church, a close communion Baptist society, was established at Risdon about 1852, and ser^dces were held in the Methodist Episcopal Chui'ch building. Mi\ Bement assisted the Methodists in Sunday-school work, but after some time he and his class -withdrew and established a Presbyterian Sunday-school, which was continued until the founding of the present Presbyterian Chui'ch.

Presbyterian Church. - This was foimded at Fostoria Febi'uarj' 25, 185G, with the following named members: Rev. W. C. Turner. James Hill and wife. John Milligan and wife, Caleb Munger and wife, Edwin Bement and ilrs. Jane Riegel. The society was reorganized under the law of 1852, June 2(>. 1858, with Caleb Munger. president, and William M. Cake, clerk. The trustees

Emnycticid Liitlieian CJnircli of Fostoria. known as the church of "Good Hope." was organized in JaiuKiry. 18t)8. by Rev. M. Buerkle, with the following named members: John Hoffman, William Winkenwerder, J. J. Eissler. John Raber. G. Martz. George Hoyer. John Lutz, H. Lutz, Louis Sass. HeiTuan Axt, August Koss. Louis Hoelzer. George Lemp and Henry Miller. This society erected a house of worship in 1869, which was enlarged in 188'"). and is now valued at .S'2..j()(). In 1SS8 the parsonage was built at a cost of SI. ")(-(>. The membership numbers eighty-live, and the membership of Sunday-school about fifty children. Rev. M. Buerkle was pastor from 1868 to 1875: Rev. William K. Braunwarth. fi-om 187") to 187f); Rev. C. A. Damenden. fi-om 1S76 to 1877; Rev. J. A. C. Cramer, from 1877 to 1882, and Rev. George Dillman. from 1882 to the present time. The secretaries of this society have been J. Jacob Eissler, Peter Miineh and Fred AVoss, George Fleehtner is the present secretary and J. J. Eissler, treasurer.

(jcrmaii Coniji-cgaiion of the Union CIturch of Fostoria was reorganized May 12. 1867. under State law. John Wagner presided, with Rev. George Rettig, secretary; John Raber and Jacolj Rower were elected elders; John Wagner and G. Marz. deacons; George Hoyer. John Huffman and John Stahly. trustees.

Ri'formcd CInirrh of Fostoria was organized Maich 23, 18 <t). by Rov. A. Cassellman. with twenty-five members. In May. 187'J, the corner-stone of their church was placed, and September 20. 1S79. the building was dedicated. The society was organized under the State law April 20. 187'J, when H. W. Konkle, Martin Mueller, Sam Stewart and Jacob Hofmaster were elected trustees. The original members are named as follows: Rev. Martin Mueller. Jacob Hoffmaster. Lydia Hoffmaster. Hannah Hoffmaster. Michael Moots. Ann ^Mueller. Mary Millhime. Katy Troutman. Jacob Schaufelberger. Mar}' Schaufelberger, Catherine Felkley. .Samuel Steward, Catherine Steward. H. W. Konkle and others - in all twenty-five ])ersous. Rev. J. D. Neff, the present pfistor, succeeded Mr. Casselman. C. ilunger and the pastors have served the society as secretaries. The present membership is seventy-seven, and value of property S2.0G0.

Ehenezer Meftiodist Episcopal Church, Loudon, was founded in 1841 at Mc- DougaVs hotise on Wolf Creek. In 1847 the class was moved to A. E. Civa's house, a half-mile south of the location of where the old church stood.

iSV. Patrick's Church was founded in Loudon at an early day. Many names of original memV)ers are given in connection with the history of St. Mary's Chiuch. at Tiffin, while others are given among the pioneers of Loudon, Hopewell and Tiffin. Rev. J. Christojihory is pastor of this chm-ch.

The beginning of the city schools was made in the winter of 1883-34. When the present Union School building was dedicated a few years ago, Charles Foster read a paper on the early system of teaching, and coupled with it an interesting histoiy of the schoolhouses, teachers and pupils. From this paper, the following three paragraphs are taken:

" The first teacher in the old log house, in the winter of 1833-34. was Freeman Luce, who contracted to teach thi-ee mouths, of twenty-six days, for $10 per month, he ' boarding 'round,' as was the custom in those days. One of the customs of that day was to bar the schoolmaster out of the house, and keep him out until he yielded to the demands of the scholars to treat them to apples, candies, raisins, or such luxui'ies as could then be had. Sometimes their demands included whiskj', but that was never the case in Eome, though at that time we were considered by the Eisdonites as being cpiite ungodly. Among the teachers thiit followed Mr. Luce were Dr. Loekwood, afterward a distino-uished member of Congress from this district, and now one of the leading law;s-ers of this county, and James Pillars, who subsequently graced the bench for ten years as common pleas judge of this judicial district. My fi-iend Nestlerode informs me he has, among the papers of his father, a written conti-aet made with IVIi-, Pillars, to teach the Island School for $10 per month, of twenty-six days; one-half to be paid in cash, and the other half in pro^-isions. "

" in those days the great feature of om- schools was the attention given to spelling. I seriously doubt whether the schools of the present day can produce so much excellence in spelling as did those of that day. One-foiu'th of the time, probably, was devoted to spelling exercises, and in addition, at least one night of each week was devoted to what was known as spelling matches. These were attended by the best spellers fi-om the neighboring schools. Omhighest ambition was to be the best speller in school. I I'emember one three months' term, I think the one taught by ilr. Noble, that C. C. Nestlerode was one of the scholars. Mi'. Nestlerode happened to take position in the class, on the first day, just above my sister Emily. They maintained this position, neither of them missing a word, until the last day, when Nestlerode missed, and Emily went above him. Of course .she was greatly delighted, and Nestlerode was coiTespondingly discomfited. I think I am safe in saying that I attended spelling school three nights out of a week, dming the three months of school for several years, visiting alternately the old led schoolhouse in PeiTy, the Tom Kelley Schoolhouse on the ridge, and the Kiser Schoolhouse south of town. The old red schoolhouse, perhaps, had the highest reputation, yet all the rest were sharp and close competitors for the tu'st honors. I believe my sister Emily was the best speller of all, and she was under twelve years of age. The larger scholars used to cany her on their backs as they went to the different schools, for be it remembered that in those days we went on foot. I remember of going one night, to the Kiser Schoolhouse, through the woods the most of the way, and alone, to attend a spelling match. I broke through the ice, and was wet up to my knees when I reached the jilace; yet I do not think I ever felt better repaid for a day's work than I did over my success on that occasion, for I spelled down the entii-e school. Tom Kerning, whom our older citizens will remember, was the teacher, and had been for three or four winters. His school, though having in it a number of good spellers, was not equal to the other thi'ee. To save the reputation of his school he adopted the plan of having one scholar of his school spell at a time. He then divided the spelling book, assigning to each of his scholars ceiiain tables which they were to learn perfectly. When, in the course of the exercises, one of his scholars had finished his part, he comi)lained of being tired, and some other one. who had been assigned the next table, would take the place thns vacated. On this occasion one of the Xeweomb girls (and. by the way, they were all good spellers) missed a word in her table. No one else knowing the table. I was enabled to spell down his whole school before that table was finished. He tried hard to skip. but-I knew it so well as to be able to detect him, and held him to the table."

"What havoc time has made with the list that met so often in fiiendly rivalry in those good old days! I say good old days deliberately, for I seriously doubt whether any one of us has experienced more pleasure in any equal mmiber of days since, ^\'e were few in number, our wants were few. and these were bountifully .supi)lied. "We knew nothing of gi'ades in schools. Ovu- seats had no backs, yet we did not complain, because we knew of nothing better. ^ entilation was perfect, and that is something with which our school-rooms of the present are not plentifidly supplied; this, however, can't be said of this magnificent house. "

June U, 18S4. P. L. Myers, in addressing the Fostoria Alumni Association, organized in ISbO. refen-ed to school days at Fostoria, crediting Miss Coiy with being the first graduate of the class of 1878, the first class to graduate fi'om the new school building.

The condition of the schools of Fostoria. shown in report of August 31. 1SS4. is as follows: Local tax. ^9. SI 9. 73; total revenue. §20,986: expend^ itiu-es. i^l4.n9:lSS: H school buildings, value of property, $50.1)00; ^1 i teachers; average salaries, i?r)7. S-to. ?38; total number of pupils enrolled. i44 - boys. 867. and girls. 877, of whom 7)8 attend high school. The report as made in April. ISS"). gives the total expenditure at 5^12,867.22, and places the balance on hand August 31. 1S84. at §8.118.80. The board of education is now composed of Antb-ew Emerine, W. D. Bobbins, J. E. Wilkinson. L. J. Eshelman. F. J. Schaufelberger and Charles Olmstead - five Republicans and one Democrat. The teachers in September. 188"). were: superintendent, "\\ . T. Jackson: James Hayes. Frank Boley. Miss C. T. Abbott, Tina Thomas, Ella Williams. Ida Williams. Hattie Diver. Lou Loudenslager. Allie Heitschew. Jessie Keller. Hattie Leech. Mrs. Henderschott. MvTa Wilson, Mi's. Libbie Hoover. Katie Staul. Mamie Leonard.

Fo.^toria Academy. - Fostoria Academy may be said to have had its beginning in a movement to establish a school there under the name, "Northwestern Normal School of Fostoria." Novenil)er 6, 1875, an association was foi-med at Fostoria for the pm-pose of establishing a normal school, and the same day signed articles of incoiiJoration. The memlx^rs were Jlichael Beilger. A. J. Longfellow. Fied Jfanecke, J. L. Keiunver, J. A. Bradner. John E. Wilkison, Amos S. A\illiams and Leigh Harbaugh. In July, 187(), the normal schoo <|uestion gave i)lac(> to the academical one, and in July of that year a petition was signed by the following named citizens, for presentation to the Findlay Conference of the United Brethren Church, praying that the academy be established here, in September. 1876: Isaac Crouse, J. S. Overholt, Joseph Bever, F. J. Breining. K. French. Abram Overholt. John A. Bradner, Thornton D. Ingle. Josej)h Stouffer, C. Olmsted. W. J. Rigby, Roswell Crocker, O. J. DeM'olfe. Junius V. Jones. Isaac Warner. Jesse Bower, Charles Foster, L. J. Hissong. C. W. Foster. J. W. Bricker. ISl. D. In September, 1876, the Sandiiskv- Conference granted the jietition. with one relating to location, and a board of tnustees was appointed, viz. : M. Bulger, D. R. Miiler,

Giu History Of Seneca Coun'Tv

A. Powell. T. J. Harbaiigh, A.. Rose. I. Crouse. Charles Foster. Levi Adams. Jesse Bower, J. Biirgner, \V. J. Andrews and Dr. William Detwiler. Isaac Crouse was appointed secretai-y in 1876, and has filled the position down to the present time. Rev. D. R. Miller was appointed financial agent. From the organization of the board to the present time I'ostoria has co-operated with the trnstees, Jlr. Foster alone contributing about SlO.OOfl By March '29, 1879. a sum of S'iO.OOO was subscribed. The executive committee at this time were F. R. Stewart, R. French, G. Biles, J. Bower and A. J. Longfellow. L. Moore was president of the board. Tiiistees for two years, T. J. Harbaugh, A. Ash. J. Powell, W. J. Andrews; foiu' years, L. Moore, J. M. Bever, A. Rose, Charles Foster; six years. D. R. Miller, I. Crouse. L. Adams. J. Bower. April Ifi, this year, the scholarship plan was adopted and extended until $17,(100 were secured. In 1883 the plan was suspended.

Prof. W. T. Jackson, Ph. D. was elected principal in the fall of 1879, when academic work was entered upon in the old Union school, which stood on the site of the new Methodist Episcopal Church. There the academy was carried on until the fall of 1880, when Prof. Jackson was appointed to a chair in the Indiana University and A. G. Crouse. A. M. , elected principal. In the fall of 1881 Prof. Jackson was elected principal to succeed Mr. Crouse (who took charge of the dejiartment of natural sciences and continued until the close of 1883), when he took charge of the schools at A\"auseon. Ohio. Prof. Jackson was elected principal of the Union schools at Fostoria in the fall of 1884, and Prof. M. DeWittLong was elected principal of the academy. Prof. Long was principal of Roanoke Seminaiy. Ind. , for foxu' years prior to coming to Fostoria. The secretary takes an active part in the financial and official life of the college as well as presiding over commercial classes, together with being presiding elder of several districts of the United Brethren Conference. Prof. A. W. Kelley came at the opening of the school in 1S7U. to take charge of the musical department. In 1 884 he was appointed to the chair of natural sciences, having previously held the chair of literatiu'e. Prof. Lehman held the chair of mathematics until he was elected principal of preparatorv department at Otterbein in 1885. The faculty in 1879-80 comprised Rev. W! T. Jackson, Ph. D.. languages and higher mathematics; E. L. Shuey, A. B., history and English, was also librarian; Mrs. L. A. Macklin, B. S. , science and mathematics: Rev. I. Crouse, principal commercial department: A. W. Kelley, M. A., vocal and instrumental nrasic and di'awing. The faculty in 1884-85 embraced Rev. M. DeWittLong. A. M.. Principal, professor of languages, mental and moral science; J. E. Lehman. A. M. . mathematics and physics; A. W. Kelley, M. A., natural science and belles-lettres: Emma F. Burtner. Preceptress, history, assistant in Latin ; Rev. George Dillman, A. M. , German ; Rev. I. Crouse. commercial science; Librarian, A. W. Kelley, A. M.

The corner-stone of the academy building was placed in position August 14, 1879, Gen. John C. Lee delivering the oration. The ladies" and gentlemen's halls are two neat frame buildings on Foster Street, just noi-th of the academy. They are rented from Mr. Foster by the academy. His proposition to donate these buildings has not yet been acted upon.

The ladies' hall provides board and rooms for twenty-four lailies, and board for gentlemen rooming elsewhere. It is a comfortable home, conveniently arranged, and is near the academy building. Each room is furnished with caipet. chairs, table, washstand, bedstead, mattress and sheets ; are heated and cared for. Students fiu'nish light and additional bedding. The expense during the past year, with good board, has been only S2.75 per week. The preceptress has her home in this building, and young ladies from a distance will be oxj)i'ctiHl to room hnx' unless their parents direct otLierwisc. Parents are assured that their daughters will receive projier care and attention at the ladies' liall. The gentlemen's hall has accommodations, similar to those of the ladies' hall, for sixty students, at a cost of Sl.oO to .§2.50 per month. Good tal)l(' board can be had at the ladies' hall for $'J. '25 per week. Rooms and board can iilso be had in private families at prices varying according to accommodations.

Old Cciiicfin-jj. The old cemetery on the knoll, just west of Portage Creek, in Hancock County, dates back to 1832, when one of the pioneers (Jacobs) interred there. The founder of the town of Eisdon owned the land, and donated it to the Methodist Church of Risdon for a burying ground, for which it was used \i]-> to 1850, when the new cemetery was established. In this year the bodies of Dr. Dana. Mr. Caples, Sr. , Louisa Howell, John Kelley, the HoUoiieters. Mrs. Braden and old man Jacobs were exhumed, and removed to the new cemetery. John Gorsuch. the donator, and the original owner of Risdon. shot himself three miles north of where Longley Station now is. His funeral sermon was preached by Rev. Mr. Brock, of the INIethodist Episcopal ChiU'ch. who dwelt gently with the life of the suicide, and asked that the remains should lie in the cemetery that he donated. The late Morris P. Skinner hehl a (juit-claim deed fi-om the Gorsuch heirs for this property. He also pm-chased. in 185-j, a strip two rods in width along the western side of the burying ground fi-om old Thomas Kelley, in which his son John Kelley was interred, and there also a daughter of Jacob Milhime was Inu'ied in 1854. Skinner began taking sand fi'om this pro])erty in 1S55. the ends of the coffins wer<' brought into view, and in that year the question of establishing a new cemetery was discussed.

The monuments, some much time-worn, still standing in this cemetery, bear the following in yneriioriains: Sarah N. Hatfield, died August 0, 1839: William Hatlield. died in 1844: John ^V. Welch, died December 20. 184(1; daughter of J. and N. Conley. died August 20. 1843; Samuel Carr. died August 2, 1842; Catherine, wife of A. W. Childs.about 1840. date si(Mm-a.- IMi-s. L.C.Crawford, August 1. lS4('i: Lyman Kettel. died March 24. 184( ; son of E. B. Howell, died Octolx'r -'). 1852: William Hamor. died December 21, 1851. Mrs. Crawford, named above, was wife of Lewis A. Crawford, a Methodist exhorter. James Lewis thinks the I) on the headstone should be 8. South of the academy was another l)urial ground. From that were removed, in 185'), the remains of Emily Foster. John Foster, and four children of C. W. Foster, John Crocker and Mrs. Crocker and Allen Crocker. Frederick Anderson was bui-ied in another cemetery (just where Dr. Hale's house now stands), and his remains were moved in 185().

Ncir Cnncli')-!/. The original tract of this cemetery, containing live acres, was l)ought of Jauies Hill, Sr. , and in 1880, eleven acres were purchased fi-om Wilson Skinner. Every man who purchased a lot was a stockholder. C. W. Foster, George \\'. Collier, Roswell Crocker, S. Bricker. James Lewis, P. R. and B. L. t^'ipl(>s. and jserhaps some others were among the incorporators. Lots sold for if1(t. In the lirst selection. Dr. Bricker and James Lewis gave up their lirst choice of lots to Col. Foster, then Mi'. Lewis siuTendered his second choice to Dr. Bricker, and a short time after the Doctor was bui-ied in the same lot, which he battled so hard to obtain, ho dying in 1856.

James Lewis was appointed sexton of the new cemetery in 1856, and held the ])ositiori until Ajiril. 1885, when he was elected trustee, and his son aj)- pointed su])erintendent.

By an act of the General Assembly of the State of Ohio, passed February lit, A. D. 1885, entitled ' ' An act to authorize the village of Fostoria. Ohio, to purchase the gi'ounds, improvements and property of the Fostoria Cemetery Association, and to levy a tax to pay therefor," the village council of Fostoria, was authorized to piu'chase the grounds, improvements, property and assets of the Fostoria Cemeteiy Association, and to issue the village bonds in amount not to exceed §3.(M)(t, in denominations of S'yOO each, bearing (\ per cent interest.

The first grave dug in the new cemetery was for two children of Rev. G. \\". Collier, in 1850. when he was pastor of the Methodist Episcojial Chui'ch. at Fostoria. The fii'st adult, other than transfers from the old cemetery, who was buried in the new cemetery, was Dr. Simon Bricker. The first burial in the new addition to the cemetery took place in 1879. The total niuuber of interments is 1,495 in the eemeterj' proper, and fifty in potter's field.

Catholic Ccmetevy. - The present Catholic cemetery- was purchased by Martin Kingseed in 1850 for the Catholic congregation, fi-om John Bick. This purchase comprises one acre which forms the cemetery now. The old cemetery was just south of the Catholic Church on the line of the Lake Erie & "^'estern Railroad. There were ten j^ersons intended there among whom were !Mrs. Telfoid and her davighter. The remains of the ten were transfeiTed in 1S5I) to the new Catholic cemeteiy.

Oak Grove Ceinetery Association, of Loudon Township, was oi'ganized June 13, 1857, with John M. Sheller. president: B. E. Stephens, clerk: R. M. Ranney. Thomas Foughty. Nathan Wade, D. S. Rumple and Pen-y Chance, trustees.

C. M. Thomas. A\"illiam Sabins. Dr. D. Thomas. John C. Locey. William ^Mickey. John Johnson. Charles R. Davis. Lieut. J. J. Fry. Reuben Nelson, Henry A. Dildine. Nicholas Raney. Valentine Ash. J. J. Myers. John Lew Allen, Gilbert Smith. Evan Kirkwood, Lieut. J. Miller. Ansel Bement, Ephi'aim Cramer. Jacob Aushen. John Fritcher. Lieut. Williams and Dr. D. Williams, all in the "west center" of the cemetery. Samuel Wiseman, a soldier of 1812, is also buried here.

A. Babcock. N. P. Dicken, E. J. Ballinger. Joseph Egan, Mike Heaston, Albert Hale, Capt. Falhabel, Col. T. C. Norris. George W. Dick, Chris Kistner, also Barney McDougal, a soldier of 1812.

Patton. Capt. Orriu Hays, M. Newcomb. Newman Sheldon. A. C. Drenning. Peter Staub, J. K. Needham, George Portz, L. Dake. Capt. Hollopeter, F. H. Shimp, Alex Smith, Samuel Shelt, H. Redfern. John AVineland, Levi Stearns. M. Shesler and A. B. Poe, a chaplain.

The members at present are named as follows: W. H. Bannister. John A. Bratlner, Peter Buessey, R. Crocker, Samuel Dale, C. E. Davis, A. M. Dildiue. John Foreman. F. M. Frey, S. G. Fall. George L. Hoege. "W. Haverstick. James Lewis. Charles F. Long. A. C. MeClean, L. McKee. J. L. Mickey, S. C. Newcomb, C. E. Norris, Charles Olmsted. John A. Parker. David Peter. AVilliam D. Robbins. AVilliam B. Rollins. F. J. Schaufelberger. J. A\'. Sehaufelberger. John C. Springer. F. E. ^^'oodl1lff. John J. AA'orman.

Royal Arcatnim Lodge was organized in April, 1878, with G. L. Hoege, Eegent; T. M. Garrison, Secretary'; A. C. McClean, Treasm-er; L. D. Mustetter, V. E. : J. W. Schaufelberger, O. ; A. T. McDonnell. Chaplain: D. Asire, Warden; Moses Smith S. ; and J. A. and W. H. Bannister. Trustees.,

Sons of Veterans.- This corps was organized here September 14. ISSo, with the following named members: D. A. Gear, Oscar Shutt. Bert Allcot, Fred Yeon. Albert E. Kaufman. AVill Vi' . Werner. Frank C. Eunnels, G. C. Williams. H. C. Sheller, J. D. Kuhl. C. J. Myers, Frank E. Green, E. J. Bunnell, Oscar Shelt. C. H. Martin. M. Waltman. Bmce Jones, E. E. Hartman. J. E. Metzler, Ernest Marvin.

Sons of Temperance formed a society at Eisdon about 1848. During the winter of 1873-74 the temperance crusaders entered on duty at Fostoria.

The ladies oi-f^anized and attacki-d the saloon system all alonrj the line, even i^oinij so far as to post female trnards outside each saloon at night. Diirintr the day a system of marchiug and conntermarehini;. resolutions and prayer, was followed liy a visit to each saloon. The protract(>d law suit against Jose])h Biek and the riot of 1874 grew out of this agitation.

Free Thivkers. - The Free Thinkers were organizinl at Fostoria as early as ISoO or 1857. The association was formed for practical jokers by practical jokers. This was a secret society, indeed, as the member who once passed throiigh the ordeal of initiation never wish(>d the outside world to know of it. but was always on the look-out for some one of whom to make a fellow victim.

Sous of Malta comprised a niunber of well-to-do members who were initiated thi'ough magnificent ceremony. In the midst of this ceremony the new memljer was blindfolded, and shortly after was asked to sign the constitution. This was generally done and the work of the initiation continued until adjourimient to the banquet hall. About the close of the banquet a waiter left a bill before the new member with his signatxu'e attached thereto, agreeing to pay for the banquet. One of Fostoria' s tirst citizens was initiated a member of this quaint organization, and it is said that, in signing the constitution while blindfolded, he actually signed away for a supper.

Inttr-Coioify Fair Associafloi) of Fostoria, was organized July 2. 1877, with the following members: Charles W. Foster, David Hays, John A. Bradiier. B. AVells. J. W. Bricker. AV. H. Grapes, J. V. Jones, Thomas Fennel, L. J. Hissong, R. Crocker. J. P. Woodruff. L. J. Eshelman and R. Gust. This organization was never completed, but it is proposed now to reorganize.

Fire Department

Engine Company A'o. 1 (Pioneer) was organized in 187"2. The hand engine of this comi)any was burned about 1881. In 1877 (he company i)urchased their first steam tire engine, and in 1884 the second. The present department comprises 2 Silsby engines, 1 hook and ladder truck, 3 hose carts and 1 tii'e team. In March. 1885. the following named officers were elected: President, \V. H. H. Williams; vice-president, S. E. Hale: secretary, T. G. Carlisle; treasurer, A\'. D. Robbins: foreman engine, G. W. Campbell; assistant foreman engine, F. A. Senn: foreman hose. S. E. Hiile; assistant foreman hose. George Bristol.

Relief Hook and Ladder Company No. 1 was organized in 1873. with Milton Beaver, secretary: John Bowly. ])resident. and George Cramer, foreman. In A)>ril. 1885. J, G. Calahan was appointed president; George Boley. vice-

Relief Hook and Ladder Association was organized April 17, 1880. with D. Snyder, president; O. B. England, secretary; N. Burtcher, treasurer; Dr. Henry, sui-geon, and Frank Hays. Joel Hale, A. Weaver, D. P. Lloyd and James Beamish, trustees, fhis was organized as a beneficial society, with about $1,000 paid up. During the life of this association, until the close of 1882, the officers were re-elected.

The business of banking at Fostoria is almost contemporaneous with the founding of the village of Rome. At an early date the Fosters made banking a department of their business, and as their house grew in importance, so did this department grow, until it was set ofF, so to speak, as a distinct business. In later years Foster's Bank became a well-known financial institution, and in our times has grown to be one of the most important banking concerns in Ohio. The bank building is certainly the finest business block in Fostoria, if not in the whole county.

The First National Bank was established Januaiy 2, 1883, with an authorized capital of if 100. 000. Andi'ew Emerine is president; Alonzo Emerine, cashier, and A. Emerine. Hon. John McCauley. Thomas D. Adams. L. J. Hissong, L. B. Hams, "\\'illiam Ash. Alonzo Emerine, directors.

Miscellaneous

Fostoria Opera House. - This splendid temple of music and the drama is the product of John Andes" enterprise. He came from Bavaria. Germany to Tiffin in 1852. worked there for some years, and in 1860 established his wagon and carriage shop at Fostoria. The building, which is erected in the heart of the city at a cost of over $80,000 known as the Andes" Opera House, fonns in itself a moniunent to his industry.

Neicspapers. - The Fostoria Rerieio and Fostoria Democrat now piiblished here, are noticed in the chapter on the press; ,so also are the other jom'nals which were piiblished here.

Modern Manufacturing Industries. - Fostoria Stave & Banel Company was established in 1871, bj- Charles Foster, E. J. Cunningham, John Noble, John W. Griffith, all of whom are to-day interested in the industry with the exception of John W. Griffith. The company employ thirty-five men diu-ing the winter months and seventy-five during the summer months. The works stand on eleven and a half acres of land, through which side tracks fi-om the Baltimore & Ohio and Lake Erie & "Western Railroad. There are about r>,000 cords of elm, bass-wood and white ash manufactured annually. John Noble is manager; N. P. Robbins is in charge of the office. This company operates another extensive factoiy in Wood Coiinty.

The Fostoria Spoke and Bending M'orks were established in 1882, with forty men. The building, erected that year, comprises a machinery room 52x 144, erected at a cost of about $15,000. The machineiy introduced that year and subsequently is estimated at $15,000. The capacity is about 1,000,000 feet of lumber annually. The jiroduct is marketed throughout the United States. The old works on the county line and Centre, established in 1807 by Bement & Grapes, were purchased by Cunningham & Co. in 1874 and conducted by them until 1882. when the buildings were destroyed by fire.

The Thomas B. Jacob Foundry was established liy C. W. Bonnell at Fostoria in 1860, when shops were erected on Perry and High Streets, and opened in

April, 1801. In 1S74 Mr. Jacobs purchased tbo works. Tlu> principal products of the foundry are scrapers, plows, agricultural implements, vases, columns, bouse castings, etc. The industry gives employment to nine hands. The value of annual product is estimated at aboiit $15. ()()().

In July, 1885, Fostoria secured the removal fi'om Titusville, Penn.. of the brass works. A consolidation of the works with the Fostoria Foundry and Machine Company's M'orks was effected. The Fostoria Brass Foundry was opened in September. 1885, with AV. L. Adams, of Cleveland, manager. This industry adds forty to the population of the city.

The Fostoria Foundiy and Machine Works, owned by Charles Foster. Nicholas Portz and F. Manecke. was the name adopted in 1880 foi' the t)ld works, conducted at one time by Bement & Rol)erts. at another time by Roberts & Co. , and still later by C. and B. AV. Bonnell & Co. Of course a great deal of new machinery was added to the old jjlant, and a foundry established in keeping with the progressive spirit of the time. In September, 188'). the Fostoria Brass and Bronze Manufactory took the place of the machine works.

Mrs. Schuyler's Paper-trimmer Factory is a novel industry in its way. The only article mantifactiu'ed is a patent trimmer for preparing wallpaper, and this has won a wide reputation.

Livingstone Roller Mills, operated by John P. AN'arner, were, established in 1801 by E. J. Cunningham and Charles AA". Foster. At that time there were three run of stones used, subsequently increased to six run. In 1881 John P. Warner and E. J. Padgham purchased the buildings and machinery for S14,- 000. In 1882 Mr. Marner lioiight out Mr. Padgham' s interest. In 1883 he introduced eleven sets of rollers, with a capacity of 100 barrels per day. The value of buildings and machinery is §24,00(1. Five men are employed.

Green & Heilman's Planing-Mill was established in 1878 by the present firm. The main building cost about $0,000. and machinery about 810.000. The mill has full ca]iaeity for the largest amount of good work. The numVier of hands employed range in nmnber fi'om twelve to fifteen. Martin V. Green and .1. F. Heilman are the proprietors.

Merganthaler & Koss' Planing-Mill, and Sash, Door and Blind Factory, was established in 1881 by Jacob Mergenthaler and J. S. Bowers. In 1882 F. Koss pirrchased Bowers" interest.

Hathaway. Campbell & Ca's. Sash, Door and Blind Factory, and Planing- Mill, were established in 1870 by Germond. Manecke & Co. In 1877 the present company jjurchased the buildings and plant. (In 1882 James H. Campbell purchased a (juarter interest. ) The value of buildings and machinery with stock, is about $23,000. This industry gives employment to from ten to twenty men. The market is enturely local.

Newhouso, Sprout & Co. . Saw, Planing-Mill and Hoop Factory, was established by M. Fry and Amos Mohler; was purchased by the present company in 187U. and has been operated by them continuously. The capacity is about 10,000 per day. The machinery is valued at about $3,000. This industry gives employment to from thr(>e to ten men.

Foster's Elevator, corner of Main Street and Lake Erie Railroad, was erected manv vears ago. It is now owned by Bannister & Nichols. The capacity is about f)0,000 bushels.

W. D. Bobbins' Marble Shop was established here about 1805, This industry gives employment to five first-class men in this work. Israel Smith, Bush

The can-iage and wagon mauufactiu'ing industry is represented l)y J. J. Eissler. S. H. Waring and M. Mergenthaler. The Litter established his was;on shop in 1865.

The Tile Works of John Spleleather, form an important indnstiy. while the lime kilns and qnan-ies of D. P. Lloyd and John A. Bradner, compare veiy favorably with the great industries of this class in northern Ohio.

The Corn Reaper and Mower, and Agi'iciiltui'al Implement Works were founded at Fostoria, September 24, 1873, when J. and Samuel Cadwallader, J. F. Schuyler. J. T. Stewart, J. . L. Kenower. K. Crocker, J. Nestlerodc, N. Portz, B. Leonard and Charles Foster, adopted articles of association.

Fostoria Gas Light Company was organized October 23, 1878. with William Smith, James M. Hawes, Charles Foster, J. A. Bradner and Charles Olmsted, members. The capital was placed at $25,000. The Xatm-al Gas Company, incorporated in 1885, elected the following named officers: William M. Day, president; J. E. Wilkison, secretary and treasurer: diiectors, Charles Foster, J. E. Wilkison, J. A. Bradner, Joseph Gwjmn and W. M. Day. It will be seen that these gentlemen constitute the present Gas Light Company. The gas-well, undertaken under the auspices of this company, was l)ored to a depth of 1,775 feet by August 4, 1885. when the well was abandoned. The total cost of this venture was §3,000. The record of boring shows twenty-eight feet of loam resting on three feet of quick-sand, from a point thirty-two feet below the surface to a point 309 feet below blue, gray and di-alj limestone forms the conformation; although at 250 feet the boring was made through red rock.

Hotels. - Samuel Laird established the first hotel at Rome in 1834; the house stood on the northwest corner of the Public Square, where John Bricker's office now is. He sold to David Terrier, in 1836. who sold to Peterson, who, with Brooks and Cadwallader, went into the counterfeiting business where Emerine's Bank now is.

Jeremiah Jlickej established the first hotel at Risdon in 1832, which he carried on until his death. This house was subsequently conducted by Mrs. Mickey. The Laird House was ojierated by O. Diver for some time, when it is supposed he sold to R. Hale, who reljuilt the house.

The second hotel at Rome, kept in 1838, on Tiffin Street, now called the ' "Dutch House, " was a small log house built in 1 835. A\i'tzell wiis the proprietor.

The third hotel stood on the site of the present Hays House, was built in 1844 by James Hays, subsequently owned by Thomas Hays; and burned down about 1849. The second hotel on the site was built by Thomas Hays in 1858: this was a brick house now foiming a part of the ])resent Hays House, built by David Hays in 1872.

The Hays House, erected in 1872, was operated by W. W. Read. He was succeeded by L. C. Cox and J. Zimmerman. The house was next leased to Jay Silvernale in 1878. who sold to David Hays and Grapes, who were succeeded by George Freeman. Wade & Reeves leased the house in 1883. In July. 1884, Thompson purchased Reeves' interest, and the house is now conducted by Wade & Thompson, the building being still owned by David Hays.

The Earl House, completed in August, 1885, for Frank Engstrom, is located in East Tiffin. Its first lessee is D. B. Hitchcock, of northeast Pennsylvania. The hotel contains fifty-one rooms, well furnished.

In 1856-57 Thompson Boyd opened his stable.s, and conducted them until 1859. Veon & Musser established stables in 1858. Mussei: & Fowler purchased Boyd's stock in 1859, and since that time Mr. Musaer has conducted a well equipped livery business here.

In 1S(j1 Benjamin "Wells, formerly a partner of Musser, opened livery stables, and continued in bitsiness until 1875. About this time the present Waring Livery was started. In 1880 the Heilman Stables were opened.

About 1878 or 1874 the Newman Hack Line was inaugiu-ated. This was followed by the Vance Line, next Smith's, and lastly the extensive and well i'(|uipped line of Smith & Skinner.