Loramie Township (part 1 of 2)

Loramie Township

This township occupies the southwest corner of the connty, and is seven miles from east to west, and five miles from north to south. It is crossed from the northeast corner to the centre of the west line by the C. C. C. & I. R. R., on which are located two stations. The northeast corner of the township is crossed by the canal and Loramie Creek. Nine Mile Creek traces in a general course from west to northeast, and enters the Loramie near Houston. A few minor streams enter Nine Mile Creek from the south, which are small, but still facilitate drainage.

The surface for the most part is level, and the west side is even low and flat. The soil is rich, and yields abundantly of tiie cereals and grasses. The villages are small, and consist of Houston, North Houston, Mt. Jefferson, and Russia. The settlement is old and the community wealthy.

The settlement of this township dates back to the times immediately following the war of 1812. Indeed, a few settlers appear to have found this locality, and commenced rearing new homes in the new country, not only during the period of that strife, but anterior thereto. There was Samuel McClure, with his wife and children, who settled in section 9, on land now owned by J. W. Akin, prior to 1812. There may have been other settlers who came here as early, but real growth dates from about the year 1814, or immediately alter the withdrawal of hostile forces from this section, the theatre Of war having been pushed northward. Let us pause and glance at some of the settlers, and produce a chapter, which,

About 1814 Robert Houston, afterward a prominent citizen, came here with his family, and settled where the village of Houston now stands. The same year found David Houston and family locating on a part of the south half of section 8. The next year William and John Houston moved here with their families; the former settling in section 5, and the latter in section 8. In the autumn of 1815 William Morrow came here from Cumberland, Pa., with his wife and six children, and settled on section 27. In 1816 William Johnston, of Pennsylvania, settled in section 27, and John Patterson in the same section. In 1817 Win. Skiilen came from Westmoreland County, Pa., and settled in section 8. Zebediah Richardson came prior to this date, and occupied part of section 3. Win. Anderson, of Irish descent, moved to section 28, and Thomas Wyatt came to section 17 prior to this date. In 1818 Henry Zemer settled in section 6, and Jacob Black in section 13. In 1820 we find Jacob Everley came to section 13; David Clark to section 19; Henry Harp to section 20, and Robert Johnston to section 17. James Harvey and family came to section 18 about 1823; Joseph Blackwood to section 22 the same year, and Joseph Wyatt, now deceased, formerly of Miami County, to section 21 in 1831. In 4823 William Johnston, a native of Ireland, settled on section 18; in 1832 William Legg came to section 16, and in 1826 William Ellis came to section 21, from Miami County; in 1830 Henry Day, with his wife and eight children, came to section 7; in 1837 Jacob S. Apple came from Montgomery County to section 30; in 1843 Henry S. Apple came to section 25 from Montgomery County; in 1833 John Worley, of Pennsylvania, came to section 25; the next year Christian Mader, of Germany, came to the same section; in 1840 Emanuel Sherer came to section 26; Jacob Rouston, of Maryland, came to section 26 in 1833; William Harrup, deceased, of England, caftie to section 7 ; in 1839 Peter Wright, of Pennsylvania, settled in Cynthian Township, but in 1848 came to section 3 of this township; J. R. Griffis, of Butler County, came to section 10 in 1838 or '39.

During the years from 1837 to 1844, inclusive, a French community grew up in this township and still preserves its identity, especially in the

Stephen Julian. SuTerfisoi lhnS wv^i t ^nght . Treasurer, Overseers, William Skillcn and Henry I^haw.^Viewe"? son and David Houston, Jr. Constable, Harvey HoIt't^Thom« VV Cl re ^ ned 89 JU8ti6e of th ° P-ce Jnn'e 28. F ° mM

1875 Tr,«i h t? ey *,u lre w". rer ' Apple - Assessor, Voisard. la" 5. Trustees, Hergenrather, Maher, and George Mooney. Clerk Jeremiah Miller. Treasurer J A. Marshall. Assessor, W. W. Gh'n '.

t i 187 « J' USt m 8 ' Ginn ' Henry Petter > and E - 0. Baumgartner. Clerk Jo i'aBn art m y ' Trea8l,rer < Apple. Assessor, James Voisard. '

Clerk and treasurer re-elected. Assessor, A. F. Echeman. Pike superintendent, Jacob Day. Constables, D. Fritz and J. W. Apple. Road supervisors, D. B. Rauch, S. T. Oliver, Joseph Francis, JaiFs Laman,

24. To William Jolinston for one dollar for services as supervisor, dated March 7, 1825; $1.00. No. 25. To Jonas Richardson for one dollar and seventy-five cents, dated March 7, 1825; $1.75. No. 26. To Samuel McClure for one dollar and fifty cents for services as trustee, dated March 7, 1825; $1.50. No. 27. To Robert McClure for one dollar and fifty cents for services as trustee, dated March 7, 1825; $1.50. No. 28. To John Booker for one dollar and fifty cents for services as trustee, dated March 7, 1825; $1.50. No. 29. To Snow Richardson for two dollars for services as township clerk, dated March 7, 1825; $2.00. Total amount of orders granted and issued. $10.25.

laid out the township in the following road districts, to wit: No. 1. Commencing at the northwest corner of section 3; thence to the mouth of Nine Mile Creek, said creek being the line into William Wright's improvement (and including said William Wright in said District No. 1); thence to include all north of Nine Mile Creek. No. 2. Includes all south of the boundary of District No. 1. Robert Johnston township clerk. In 1826 the township was divided into three road districts.

section 22, town. 9, range 5; thence west in said line to the northeast corner of section 20; thence south to the northeast corner of section 29; thence west in said line to the Darke County line; thence south to Miami County line; thence east on said line to the southeast corner of section 27; thence north to place of beginning. No. 2. Beginning at the northeast corner of section 6; thence south to the northeast corner of section 19; thence east to Grayson (Washington) Township line; thence north in said line to Cynthian Township line; thence west on said line to place of beginning. No. 3. Including all the township not included in Districts Nos. 1 and 2. .

In March, 1828, the township was divided into two school districts, with twelve householders in the first, and thirty-three in the second. In July three districts were formed, and in November these were reformed, so that the first embraced seventeen householders, the second twentytwo, and the third fourteen.

On December 27, 1828, sections 27, 28, 21, and 22 of Loramie Township were attached to school district No. 2, of Grayson (Washington) Township, in answer to petition.

In 1834 the township was divided into four school districts. In 1818 six road districts were formed. At an election held in 1843 ninety. eight votes were cast; in 1847, sixty-five votes.

The first volume of township records contains a long list of " Ear Marks and Brands," from which we reproduce those falling within the years 1824-29: -

3. Robert McClure's (3d) ear mark of neat cattle, hogs, and sheep: a crop off the right ear, and a half crop of the under side of the left; December 27, 1821.

6. Robert McClure's, Jr., ear mark of neat cattle, lu gs, and sheep: a crop and an upper bit off the left ear, and an under bit out of the right. March 7, 1825.

7. Robert McClure's ear mark of neat cattle, hogs, and sheep: a crop, a slit, and an upper bit out of the left ear, and an under bit out of the right. March 7, 1825.

Election. - I do hereby certify that Daniel C. Flinn was elected captain of the 2d Company, 2d Regiment, 2d Battalion, 12th Division, Ohio Militia, on the 8th day of August, 1829, by a majority of twenty-one votes. James Hervey, L. T. Clk.

At an election held for State and county officers October 11, 1831, fifty-five votes were cast. In March, 1833, the township was divided into four road districts.

About 1827 or '8, a round-log school-house was built a short distance west of where the township house now stands in section 18. This was the pioneer school building, and was used for some time, supplied as it was with the primitive benches and puncheon floor. Among the early teachers were William Wright and C. Wyatt. Prior to the erection of the house just mentioned, school had been held at the homes of William Skillen and Robert Houston for a period of several years. Of course these schools were all sustained by subscription or the voluntary support of the settlers. It was during this period, too, that the teacher was compelled to " board round," an incident to which reference is frequently made to-day, and which was a feature no teacher would wish to see revived. Still it may have appeared as consistent and agreeable to the teacher of that day as any other feature of the profession, for it was inseparably attached to the profession. But it has been abandoned as an incident even, and no efforts are making for its restoration. Schools have changed in scope and method since that da} r , for they have ever been guarded and nurtured with zealous care. It is proper, too, that it be so, for to them a nation, if not a race, is looking for the advancement of its people. Particularly must this be the case in a republic, where ignorance is the greatest danger and education the greatest security. To the schools free institutions look not only for defence but for maintenance and growth. At this time the township is divided into the usual sub-districts, and these are all in a prosperous and promising condition. The people cannot be too- liberal in their support. *

This congregation was organized December 31, 1848, by Rev. .T. A. Meeks, of l'iqua, assisted by Rev. W. B. Spencer, of Sidney, and Elder William Linn, of Piqua. John G. Hunter was ordained a ruling elder on the same date. The organization members were John G. Hunter, Charlotte Hunter, James Harper, Jane Harper, Braziliai Gray, Abigail Gray, Eliza A. Young, Margaret Blackwood, now Mrs. Thomas Skillen, Catharine Young, Elizabeth Diltz, Mary Diltz, Ann Diltz, J. W. Hunter, and Maria Hunter. Sefvices were at first held at the house of John G. Hunter. A brick church was constructed at Mt. Jefferson, which was dedicated January 2, 1850, by Rev. Thomas Elcock. In 1851, John N. Stewart and Braziliai Gray were elected to the eldership and ordained March 31. In April, 1861, Buel Pritchard was ordained as elder; in 1862, James Harper and John Johnston ; May 14, 1876, Sibert Carson ; October 30, 1880, Theodore C. Skillen and Samuel S. Laymaster all succeeded to the eldership.

Galbraith; Rev. Samuel C. Kerr; Rev. William Moore; and Rev. C.E. Tedford, present pastor. Besides these ministers a number of others have served the congregation at different periods as stated supplies.

An organization was effected in the Apple school-house about 1866 by Rev. William Mittendorf. The members were Reuben Schuler and wife, Jacob Hengle and wife, and Anthony August and wife. The early services were held in the school-house or the houses of the members for a time, but on the 5th of September, 1869, a church was dedicated by Revs. White ami Fritz, of Dayton. The building is a frame 40x28 feet, and was erected at a cost of $900. It is located on the northwest corner of section 30, town. 9, range 5, on land formerly owned by J. S. Apple. Reuben Schuler, Jacob Hengle, Anthony August, and J. S. Apple were then appointed trustees of the church. The first class leader was Reuben Schuler; present leader, J. J. Fessler. Ministers, Revs. Mittendorf, Crouse, Eckart, Albright, Wise, Capitka, Rich, Croone, Frank, and Smith, the latter being pastor at this time.

This organization was effected in 1849 by Elder Caleb Wooley and Elder James Fahnestock, with eight members. These were Frederick Everiy, Jesse Ellis, Jephtha M. Wyatt' and wife, Jesse D. Elliott and wife, John Hughes and wife. Messrs. Everlj', Ellis, and Wyatt were appointed deacons, and Messrs. Wyatt and Ellis trustees. In 1852 they erected a frame church in Mt. Jefferson,' the building being 42x32 feet. In 1855 Jacob Penrod and Jacob Putl were elected deacons. Isaac S. Cox was elected about 1862. The present deacons are Jacob Penrod and Isaac S. Cox. They are also trustees. Caleb Worley, James Fahnestock, F. 8*. Wells, Samuel Penrod, Justus Hunt, Asbury Watkins, I). Lepley, and G. L. Griffith have served as elders. Elder G. L. Griffith is present pastor. Of the original membership none now remain in the community. The present membership numbers forty-five.

This branch of the Piqua M. E. Church was organized at the house of Thomas Wyatt in 1825, by Rev. Levi White and John Woodney, the latter being the leader of the Piqua church. The membership consisted of Thomas Wyatt, Mary Wyatt, William Johnston, Mary Johnston, George Black, Margaret Black, Henry Harp, Sarah Harp, Anthony Harp, Margaret Harp, Abner Wyatt, Richard Stone and wife, Andrew Livingood, Benjamin Carson and wife, and Ephraim Martin $nd wife. Abner Wyatt was first class-leader. The meetings were first held at the houses of Thomas Wyatt, Henry Harp, and Richard Stone. In 1832 a hewed log house was erected, 30x28 feet in dimensions. It was built on the east half of the northwest quarter of section It, and was dedicated in December, 1836, by Rev. James Findley. Joseph Wyatt, William Johnston, and another member, whose name cannot be recalled, were chosen trustees. The early ministers were Revs. Levi White, A. Bowcher, Gaddis, A. Brown, Maley, William Raper, D. D.

Davidson, and James Smith. In 1853 the society numbered about sixty. A disagreement this year resulted in a withdrawal of a number of the members, who organized a separate society in the school-house in district No. 1, but after a few years it was disbanded, in 1854 the regular organization erected a frame church in Mt. Jefferson, which was used until 1876, when the society, having existed over a half century, allowed itself to dissolve, and is now only a matter of history.

is located near the southwest corner of section 7, town. 9, range 5, Loramie Township. It was erected during the summer, and dedicated September 14, 1881, by the Revs. Shaw and Weaver. The building is 31 by 21 feet, a frame structure, erected at a cost of about $400. The Society was organized in 1867 by the Rev. Jacob Weaver with about thirteen members, viz.: Christian Harmony and wife, George Singer and wife and three children (one son and two daughters), George Arent and wife, George Shcrer and wife, J. Lindsey and wife. They held their meetings in the Flinn school-house and at the residences of the different members until the completion of their present church building. J. Lindsey was elected ns elder at the time of the organization, and has since held the office. The Rev. Jacob Weaver has been their minister sirtbe the organization of the society. The present membership is about eighteen. Christian Hannoney and John Galley are the present deacons.

These establishments are located near Houston, on the Wright farm, in section 3. The first house, known as No. 3, was built in 1862 by John W right and E. W. Pampel. Its dimensions were 106 by 42 feet; 20 ft. high to the square, and had a storage capacity of 1500 tons. The second house, known as No. 2, was erected by the same firm in 1866, and was .

103 by 52 feet, with a height of 20 ft. and capacity of 2000 tons. Icehouse No. 4 was built in 1871 by the same parties. Its size is 104* by

104 feet, 26 feet high to square, and possesses a storage capacity of 6000 tons. The business was conducted by Wright & Pampel until 1878, when Henry Crone purchased the interest of Pampel, since which the business has been operated by Crone & Wright under the style of The Summit Ice Compunj\ Their shipments of ice amount to about 6000 tons annually.

This mill is located near the canal and the C. C. C. and I. Railroad, in section 3. The building is 1 16 by 22 feet, the engine a thirty-horsepower, and the saws sixty and thirty inches in diameter. The capacity is about 8000 feet of lumber per day. The mill was erected in 1876 by the Crone Brothers, by whom it "was operated about three years, when John Wright purchased the interest of A. J. Crone. Since that time it has been operated under the firm style of Crone & Wright, the individuals being H. Crone and John Wright. Attention is also given to the purchase and sale of all qualities and varieties of hardwood lumber.

This town was surveyed May 4, 1838, by Jonathan Counts for Harvey Houston. The original plat occupied a portion of the northwest quarter of section 9, town. 9, range 5 east. The lots are each 3£ by 10 rods, except fractions. Main Street is 95 links wide and bears north 10) 3 west; Elm Street is 3 rods wide and at right angles to Main Street, which bears south 79|° west. The alleys are each one rod wide, and at right angles with Main Street. West Lane is one rod wide and bears north 10£° west. The town is situated on the State road leading from Piqua to St. Marys, and contains 29 lots.

It will thus be seen this village was laid out for Harvey Houston, who lived in the old log house (now weatherboarded), which stands north of Houston, on the east side of the pike road. This house is now owned by J. W. Akin. It was used by Mr. Houston for hotel (strictly speaking, '-tavern") purposes a number of years. His wife became the first post- mistress in the township, the office being established in 1834. The first store was kept where Fred. Baumgartner's house now stands, and was opened and managed for some time by Nicholas Gresham, who began the business about 1832. He was succeeded by Singer & Brown, who erected new buildings about the time the town was laid out. They retired from the business about ten years later, about which time Joseph Taylor entered the same trade. The business was then extensively conducted by Taylor for several years. He also dealt extensively in grain and the pork packing industry. Everything moved prosperously about the village until the cholera panic reached the township, when the town itself was almost depopulated and business of all kinds paraljzed. The citizens deserted the plague-infested section, and it was nearly or quite a year before their return and the revival of trade. About 1851 B. Mallot engaged in the mercantile business, and was followed by others who came and went with the mutation of years or circumstances, and whose connection with the town we cannot pause to trace. At this time the village business interests are represented by a general supply store, kept by C. Delaet; a grocery store, a shoe shop, a hotel, and a saloon and restaurant in the village proper, by which we mean the exclusion of North Houston, elsewhere treated. The town contains about twenty dwellings, and a population of about one hundred.

Mt. Jefferson was surveyed January 12, 1838, by Jonathan Counts for Samuel Farnum, proprietor. The lots are each four by ten rods, except fractional ones, which are either more or less. The streets are each sixty feet, the lanes thirty feet, and the alleys each one rod wide. Main Street was laid on the State road leading from Piqua to St. Marys, and bears north 30° west. Cross street is run at right angles to Main Street, and bears north 60° east. The description was acknowledged before John M. Ross, J. P., and recorded January 29, 1838.

In this village are located one store, by Kilian Hcrgenrather, a blacksmith shop by Baumgartner & Furman, a wagon shop by Hamilton Catlerlau; three churches, Presbyterian, Christian, and Methodist Episcopal; and two physicians, Drs. C. P. Ross and Isaac Hallopeter. The first store was kept by Charles Rutherford, although some small trading-places had been conducted prior to his time. Jacob Helm came next and conducted the business about three years. Others have come and gone. Years ago the village boasted a shoe shop by John Weeks, and a tailor siiop by A. D. Young. The population is now about eighty or ninety, while the dwellings number about twenty.

The town was laid out for Asa D. Young, November 1, 1855. It was a part of the northwest quarter of section 9, town. 9, range 5, and consisted of six lots lying in the corner of the B. and I. R. R., and the J'iqua and St. Mary's State road.

The village, situated as it now is, on the C. C. C. and I. Railroad, and known as Houston Station, contains one general supply store by Akin & Flinn, a warehouse or grain depot by the same firm, a tile factory near the village, operated by William Flinn & Co., and a grocery by the same firm. William Akin is postmaster, Charles Flinn assistant postmaster, telegraph operator, and railroad agent. The town has a population of about forty-five.

The North Houston tile factory was built in 1877 by William Flinn and Jacob Harrup, the buildings consisting of a drying shed 100x20 feet, a grinding shed 40x40 feet, a mud shed, a kiln shed 54x25 feet, and which contained capacity for 550 rods. The business was conducted by Flinn & Harrup about one year, when Mr. Flinn purchased the whole interest, and conducted the business about four years In 1832 (present year) he took Alfred Smith and Hudson Flinn into partnership, and the business is now managed by William Flinn & Co. Their manufactures embrace all sizes and styles of tile of the best quality.

Akin & Flinn (William Akin and Charles Fiinu), dealers in grain, flour, salt, groceries, dry -goods, notions, boots and shoes, and hardware. This firm succeeded J. F. Black April 1, 1 -'-81, and the following summer erected a warehouse 60x36 feet on the railroad. During the period between August, 1881, and June, 1882, they handled about 15,000 bushels of wheat and 1500 bushels of corn. They secured a telegraph office here, and made North Houston something of a railroad station. The 1st of April, 1881, Mr.'Akin was commissioned postmaster, and at the same time Mr. Flinn was appointed railroad agent.

This village is located near the centre of section 18, town. 10, range 4 east, on the C. C. C. & I. R. R. The first bouse was erected by Lewis Phillip in 1853. The site of the town was originally owned by a man named Febaux, and who sold to Phillips, and he in turn began the sale of lots. This was prior to the survey of the plat into a town site. The name was given because of the resemblance of the lands of the section to the section of the Russian empire, with which some of the settlers were acquainted. The second house, like the first, of logs, was built by Clement Lachat in 1854, and the next by Ferial DeBrosse about 1856 or '57. At this time the village consists of about eighteen dwellings, and a population of about one hundred. The first grocery was established by Lewis Phillip in 1853; first drygoods store by Jasper Cordonnierin 1861 or '62. Among others who have at different times conducted the grocery or drygoods trade we may mention George Marshall, Joseph Delaet, A. F. Ashman, Joseph Miller, Francis Didier (from 1870 to '78), C. Besonnet. and Frank Subler. At this time there are two stores, by Frank Subler and Joseph Miller; one grain warehouse, by Frank Didier; a boot and shoe store, by C. Besonnet; two blacksmith shops, by Clement Lachat and Harrison Voisard; one steam saw-mill, by Marshall & Simmon; one church - Roman Catholic; a post-office, Lewis Piney first postmaster, and present postmaster Francis Didier. Among others who held the office may be mentioned Isaac Fulton, Joseph Delaet, Solomon Spangler, Joseph Cordonnier, and Augustine Voisnet.

The Russia steam saw-mill was erected in 1867, by John A. Marchal, Michael Mehnm, and John B. Marchal, and was operated by this firm until 1868, when Meham sold bis interest to Frank Simon. The firm style then became Marchal and Simon, under which style the business is still conducted. The main building is forty by thirty feet, two stories high with a shed fifty by twenty feet. The power is a twenty-foil r-horse engine, which gives a sawing capacity of about eight hundred feet per hour.

This plat of twelve lots was laid out March 15, 1833, for David and Cynthian Houston. It never became a town, and even the site long since became only a portion of a farm.

. William Morrow, the father of the above, was born in Pennsylvania in 1777. He married Briitana Clark in 1802, with whom he raised a family of eight children. In 1814 they came to*Ohio, and located temporarily in Upper Piqua. In 1815 he entered land, and located within the present limits of Loramie Township, where he and his wife died in 1857.

The name Morrow originally was written Murray, and there are some who still write it in that manner. The Morrows of Shelby County are of the same family of Gov. Jeremiah Morrow.

Thomas Morrow was born in Pennsylvania in 1804, came with his father, William Morrow, to Loramie in 1815. He lived w ith his parents until he was about nineteen years of age, when he went to learn the carpenter trade. In 1831 he married Mary A. Patterson, of Dayton, Ohio. By this union they had eight children, four of whom lived to grow up, viz., Theodore A., Thomas E., William M., and Emma L. Mrs Morrow died in 1849. In 1851 Mr. M. married Leah Ashton. By this marriage they had six children, three of whom are living, viz., Maggie, Bell, and Harry.

Mr. Morrow from the time he went to learn the trade in 1824 did not reside in the county until 1859, when he returned and located on the old homestead of his father. It is now sixty-eight years since he first came to the place where he now lives.

On the* 12th of May, 1769, or a few years before the Revolution, a child was born to parents who were then in mid-ocean seeking the American shore. The parents were Irish, and the child of the ocean was Samuel Skillen. That child grew up, married, and reared a family in Pennsylvania. One son. William, whose name appears at the head of this sketch, was born in Pennsylvania June 28, 1793. He was thus a child of that dark and stormy period of the northwest which became his home. It was the period of Harmar, St Clair, anil Wayne, the period which, after sacrificing one army, recruited another, subdued the savages, and for a time gave repose to the northwest. William Skillen married Miss Elizabeth Gray, of Westmoreland County, Pa., and in 1816, with his wife and two small children, moved to Ohio, and settled in the vicinity of Cincinnati. Late in 1817 he moved his family to Shelby County, and located in Loramie Township. For a short time the family lived with Mr. Skillen's aunt, Mrs. Rachel Flinn, but this was only until a cabin could be erected. lie entered the west half of the northwest quarter of section 8, where he made improvements, and moved his family in November, 1817. The remainder of his life was passed in this township, his time being devoted to farming - his life pursuit. As one of the very early settlers, he contributed largely to the development of the new country, and the advancement of. the new community. He reared a family of six children, named Samuel, Thomas, David, James, Sarah J., and William W. Three of these, Thomas, Sarah, and William, are still living. Mrs. Skillen died September 3, 1828, while Mr. Skilien survived her some fourteen years, his death occurring in November, 1842.

This son of William Skillen is one of the oldest and most respected citizens of Loramie Township. He was born in Westmoreland County, Pa., October 23, 1815, and was one of the two children which composed the family of William Skillen when he moved to Ohio in 1816. His childhood was thus passed in Loramie Township, to which his parents moved in 1817, or when he was about two years of age. In 1839 he went to Arkansas, where he spent one year, and returned to this township. He married Miss Susanna Julian - August 12, 1840. She was a daughter of Stephen and Margery Julian, of this township. Soon after his marriage he returned to Arkansas, where he lived until 1843, when he moved his family back, and settled on a farm in this township. He was then actively engaged in farming until 1851, when he partially retired. He then purchased a few acres of land on the canal bank, in the east half of the southeast quarter of section 4, on which he erected a dwelling, to which he moved his family in 1852. During the same season he erected a store-room, and engaged in merchandising for some years later. In 1854 he erected a grain warehouse on the canal bank, and engaged in the grain trade until 1876. Since that date he has given little attention to his store, so that it may be said he is practically leading a retired life. The farm is now conducted by his son Theodore. Mrs. Skillen became the mother of two children, both of whom are now dead, while her own death occurred April 3, 1848. Mr. Skillen was married some time later to Miss Amanda, daughter of Jacob R. and Rachel Griffis, who was born in this township in 1828. One child, Theodore, was the result of this union. The mother died September 7, 1853. In August, 1854, Mr. Skillen married again. This marriage being to Margaret Blackwood, who was born in Pennsylvania February 27, 1816. She is still living, and enjoying the retirement from active life which Mr. Skillen sought some years ago.

deceased, was born in Ireland Sept. 15, 1778. About 1805 he started for America, but was taken and pressed into the service of his native country by being placed on a man-of-war as a sailor. After being on the water about one month he was appointed as steward of the vessel, and remained in the service in that capacity about seven years, or until 1812, when he was honorably discharged. He then began travelling over the different European countries. After travelling about four years in that way he migrated to America, landing in New York city some time during the latter part of the year 1816, where he remained a short time, then, continuing his journey westward, he readied Shelby County, O., on the 17th of March, 1817, and located in Loramie Township. Soon after coming to this county he settled on the southwest quarter of section 27, Loramie Township, on which he followed farming and passed the remainder of his days. On the 7 tli of July, 1818, he married Miss Elizabeth Anderson, who was born in Ireland in May, 1792. She came to America with her parents, William and Martha Anderson, in 1803, and located in Pennsylvania, where her mother died. In 1817 she, in company with her father and family, came to Ohio, reaching Shelby County in October, 1817, and located in Loramie Township on the land in section 28, a part of which is now owned by James Harper. Mr. and Mrs. Patterson settled on his land in section 28, the farm now owned and occupied by their son, James Patterson, on which Mr. Patterson died Sept. 25, 1849, at the age of seventy-one years and ten days. His companion survived him until April 4, 1874, when she died at the advanced age of eighty-two years. They reared a family of eight children, viz., John, William, Martha, Jane, Robert, Alexander, James, and Elizabeth. Jane Patterson died Oct. 11, 1850; Martha Pattersou died Aug. 26, 1854; Elizabeth Patterson died Dec. 13, 1865. John and William Patterson are now living in Miami County, 0 ; Robert Patterson is now residing in San Francisco, Cal. ; Alexander and James Patterson are residing in Loramie Township, Shelby County.

son of John and Elizabeth Patterson, was born in Loramie Township, Shelby County, Ohio, Jan. 22, 1831. He has made farming and stockraising his principal business, and is now one of the largest land-owners in Loramie Township. On the 5th of April, 1865, he married Miss Catharine H. Cox, of Hamilton County, O., where she was born June 5, 1839. Mr. and Mrs. Patterson settled on the farm in section 22, Loramie Township, on which he now resides. His wife died March 21, 1880, leaving him with five children, four of whom are yet living, viz., Charles M., Alexander L., Katie I., and Robert C.

youngest son of John and Elizabeth Patterson, was born in Loramie Township, Shelby County, O., Feb. 10, 1834. On the 2d of June, 1859, he married Miss Elizabeth Wall, of Butler County, O. Mr. and Mrs. Patterson settled on his father's home farm, on which he has since resided. His wife died Jan. 5, 1866. On the 7th of Sept. 1870, he married Miss Anna M. Linn, of Miami County, O., born Feb.18, 1839. She was a daughter of William and Margaret Linn, who were among the pioneers of Miami County. By this union he has five children, viz., Lucy B., Elizabeth E., James R., William L., and John T.

In Pennsylvania, on the 9th of November, 1807, Mr. Zemer was born. He was a son of Henry and Elizabeth Zemer, who were natives of Pennsylvania, and came to Pickaway County, O., remained until 1818, when they came to Shelby County, and settled on the northeast quarter of section 6, Loramie Township, on which Henry Zemer died in 1836. He served in the war of the Revolution. His widow remained on the home farm in Loramie Township until 1846, when she moved to the. State of Indiana, where she died in 1851. They reared a family of ten children, viz., Abraham, Sarah, Susannah, Mary, Elizabeth, Catharine, Christian, George, Margaret, and Henry, only three of whom are now living, viz., Sarah, Elizabeth, and Margaret. George Zemer, the subject of this sketch, came to Shelby County with his parents in 1818. In Aug. 1833, he married Miss Elizabeth Day, daughter of Henry and Ann Elizabeth Day. Miss Day was born in Loudon County, Va., Nov. 14, 1809, and came to Shelby County with her parents in 1830. Mr. and Mrs. Zemer settled on her father's home farm, remained until March 20, 1836, when they moved on the east half of the southeast quarter of section 6, where Mr. Zemer died March 13, 1865. His widow is living on the home farm with her son, Noah Zemer. They reared a family of five children, viz., Noah, Henry, Catharine, George W., and Levi.

eldest son of George and Elizabeth Zemer, was born in Loramie Township, Shelby County, O., June 29, 1835. lie has made farming his principal business, although he conducted the business of butchering in connection with farming about eleven years. He now owns his father's home farm in section 6. In 1877 he erected on his farm an extensive molasses factory, in which he carries on the business of manufacturing sorghum molasses, making as many as 6200 gallons in one season. His main building is 80 by 30 feet, 16 feet high; also, a shed 30 by 30 feet, 10 feet high. Mr. Zemer has been married three times : first, on the 3d of Julj f , 1856, to Miss Martha E., daughter of Peter and Martha A. Cruse, born near Cleveland, O., Aug. 3, 1834, and came to this county with her parents in 1836. By this union he has three children, viz., Peter C., John H., and Seth I. His wife died November 4, 1869. On the 12th of July, 1870, he married M*ss Sarah A. Miller, by whom he had one child, which died in infancy. Mrs. Zemer died Dec. 1, 1876. On the 31st of August 1877, he married hliza Brodriek, n6e Rutledge, by whom he has one child, viz., Hattie E. In 1875 he purchased and moved on his father's home farm, where he now resides.

deceased, was born near Lancaster, Pa., Sept. 20, 1768, where he passed his minority days on a farm. On the 1st of May, 1800, he married Miss Nancy Ramsey, of near Lancaster, Pa., where she was born July 3, 1777. Mr. and Mrs. Clark came to Ohio in 1815 and located in Hamilton County, remained until May, 1817, when they moved to Miami County, O., and settled in Newberry Township, remained until March, 1820, when they came to Shelby County, and settled on the northeast quarter of section 19, Loramie Township, on which they passed the remainder of their days. Mr. Clark died Oct. 22, 1823; his wife survived him until January 14, 1848. They reared a family of six children, viz., Samuel, Thomas, Hannah, David, Margaret, and James. David and James are the only ones of the family that are now living, and they reside in Loramie Township.

third son of David and Nancy Clark, was born in Washington County, Pa., August 28, 1810. He came to Shelby County with his parents in March, 1820, and located in Loramie Township, where he has since resided. On the 28th of January, 1836, he married Miss Sarah M. Dye, of Miami County, O., born March 18, 1806. By this union he had three children, one of whom is now living, viz., Nancy J., wife of Edward Wall. His wife died Oct. 5, 1843. On the 1st of April, 1847, he married Miss Margaret Morrow, who was born in Hamilton County, O., March 18, 1822, daughter of Daniel and Mary Morrow. By this union he had eight children, six of whom are now living, viz., Maty R., Thomas J., James D., William R., David H., and Fannie iM.

youngest son of David and Nancy Clark, was bom in Hamilton County, O., Oct. 19, 181 6. He came to Shelby County with his parents iu March, 1820, and located in Loramie Township. On the 2d of April, 1868, he married Mrs. Harriet L. Riffle, widow of Jacob Riffle, daughter of Isaac and Phebe Winans, then of Cynthian Township, this county, but a native of New Jersey, where she was born Dec. 11, 1826. Mr. and Mi s. Clark settled on a part of his father's home farm in section 19, on which they lived until in the autumn of 1871, when they moved on the farm in section 1 8, on which they now reside. He has made farming his vocation, and now owns two good farms in Loramie Township.

deceased, was born in Fermanagh County, Ireland, May 15, 1785. He emigrated to America about 1817, and located at Piqua, Ohio, where he remained a short time, when lie was employed by the Government and sent by Col. Johnston to Anderson, Indiana, and from there he went to Wapakonetn, Ohio, where he remained several years. In 1823 he came to Shelby County and located in Loramie Township, on land in section 18, which he had entered several years prior to settling in the township. On the 12th of Feb. 1824, he married .Miss Mary Wyatt, daughter of Thomas and Mary Wyatt. Miss Wyatt was born in Hocking County, Tenn., Nov. 30, 1806, and came with her parents to Loramie Township in 1817. Mr. Johnston died April 13, 1856, and Mrs. Johnston Sept. 15, 1865. They reared a family of eight children, viz., John, Ann, Thomas, Mary J., Sarah, Margaret, Rachel, and William. Rachel and William are now dead.

eldest son of William and Mary Johnston, was born in Loramie Township, this county, November 15, 1824, and has since been a resident of the township. He is a carpenter by trade, which business he followed for a number of years, then turned his attention to farming, and now owns a farm of eighty acres, on which he has resided since 1848. On the 6th of -April, 1848, he married Miss Elizabeth Black, daughter of Jacob and Christina Black. Miss Black was born in Loramie Township, this county, Aug. 28, 1831. By this union he had six children, three of whom are now living, viz., Mary A., Thomas n., and John A. Mr. Johnston filled the office of township trustee for several years.

second son of William and Mary Johnston, was born in Loramie Township, Shelby County, O., February 10, 1828, where his minority days were spent on a farm. On the 3d of December, 1854, he married Miss Elizaltcth Botkin, of Mercer County, 0., born Jan. 28, 1831. In 1855 Mr. and Mrs. Johnston settled on tiie farm on which he now resides. His wife died July 17, 1865. On the 9th of June, 1868, he married Mary J. Black, then of Loramie Township, but a native of Miami County, O. By this union he has two children, viz., Elizabeth A. and James W. He has made farming his principal business, and now owns several good farms in Loramie Township. On the 10th of September, 1861, he enlisted in Company F, known as the Benton Cadets, and served until the disorganization of the company, returning home Jan. 1862.

deceased, was born in County Tyrone, Ireland, in 1800. He married Miss Eliza Miller, who was born in same county Aug. 1, 1808. Mr. and Mrs. Ginn emigrated to America in 1826 and located in Miami County, Ohio, remained until 1832, when they came to Shelby County, entered, and settled on the west half of the northeast quarter of section 21, Loramie Township. He afterward made other purchases of land until he owned three hundred and twenty acres of good land. He died June 30, 1856. His widow remained on the home farm until July 6, 1881, when she moved to Piqua, Miami County, where she is now residing. They reared a family of nine children, viz., Elizabeth, John, James, Anna, Robert, Andrew II., William W., Charles, and Maggie. Robert was killed in the battle of Franklin, Tenn., Nov. 30, 1864; John died in California Aug. 14, 1881; Elizabeth died in Canada in March, 1870. The other six are yet living. James Ginn served over two years in the war of 1861.

son of .Tames and Eliza Ginn, was born in Loramie Township, Shelby County, Ohio, March 6, 1844. His minority days were spent on the farm with his parents. He has been successfully engaged in farming, butchering, and stock-dealing. On the 3d of January, 1872, he married Miss Hattie Hoel, of Hamilton County, Ohio, born January 7, 1846, by whom he has four children now living, viz., Gertrude, James II., Cecil, and William. In May, 1880, Mr. Ginn purchased and moved on the farm near Mt. Jefferson, on which he uow resides.

son of .Tames Ginn, was bbrn in Loramie Township, this county, April 30, 1846. He has made farming his principal business, and now owns one hundred and sixty acres of his father's home farm. On the 19th of May, 1881, he married Miss Bell W. Morrow, who was born in this township January 22, 1859, daughter of Thomas and Jane Morrow. Mr; Ginn has filled the office of trustee for four years, and township assessor two terms.

deceased, was born in Miami County, Ohio, June 1, 1806. He was a son of Edward Wyatt, who was a native of Virginia, and a descendant of Thomas Wyatt, first Governor of Virginia. Joseph Wyatt, subject of this sketch, was reared on a farm in Miami County. On the 25th of December, 1828, he married Miss Catherine Ellis, who was born in Montgomery Count}", Ohio, February 5, 1809. In 1831 Mr. and Mrs. Wyatt came to Shelby County, and settled on the west half of section 21, Loramie Township, on which they lived about two years, or until 1833, when he sold his land in section 21, and purchased and moved on land in section 18, same township. On this farm they lived until 1853, when he purchased and moved on the farm in section 20, now owned by their son, Joseph M. Wyatt, on which Mr. Wyatt died April 17, 1868. His widow is living on the home farm with her son, Joseph M. Wyatt. They reared two children, viz., Hannah and Joseph M. Hannah married Dr. S. W. Beall, and now resides in Troy, Ohio. They have three children, viz., Charles L., Boyd E., and Laura J.

son of Joseph and Catharine Wyatt, was born in Loramie Township, Shelby County, Ohio, March 1, 1841. He was reared on a farm. On the 25th of January, 1866, he married Miss Mary Greer, of Clinton Township, this county, by whom he has five children, viz., Franklin, Luciila B., George, Charles, and Laura.

deceased, was born in Miami County, Ohio, September 12,1842. He went to Indiana in 1852 with his grandparents, with whom he remained until he grew to manhood. On the 4th of December, 1861, he enlisted in company 1 of the 40th Indiana Volunteer Infantry, serving as such until 1863, when he re-enlisted as a veteran volunteer and served until July 11, 1865, when he was discharged from the service. He was wounded in battle, which eansed his death about two years after the close of the war. On the 17th of March, 1863, while at home on a furlough, he came to Shelby County and married Miss Mary P. Colby, of Loramie Township, born February 22, 1841, daughter of Joseph and Abigail Colby. Mr. Ashton died November 25, 1867, leaving a widow with two children, viz., Joseph H. and Laura A.

was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, August 31, 1826. He is a son of James Akin, deceased, who was born in Kentucky January 3, 1789. He came to Ohio when yet a small boy with his parents, James and Sarah Akin, and located in Montgomery County. On the 7th of July, 1812, he married Miss Ann Fox, of Montgomery County, who was bom March 3, 1794. In the spring of 1831 they came to Shelby County, located in Cynthian Township, and remained about two years, or until 1833, when they moved to Washington Township. In 1836 they came to Loramie Township and purchased and moved on the farm in section 9, now owned and occupied by their son, James W. Akin, on which they passed the remainder of their days. James Akin died January 19, 1849. His wife departed this life July 16, 1850. He served in the war of 1812. He reared a family of eight children, viz., John, Sarah, Jane, Ann, James W., Elizabeth, Martha, and Samuel, all of whom are now d^ead except Sarah, Ann, and James W. Sarah is now living in Indiana; Ann is residing in Michigan ; and James W. Akin, subject of this sketch, is living on the home farm in section 9, on which he has resided since 1863. He has made farming and stock-raising his principal business, and now owns a farm of four hundred and nine acres. He is considered one of the most successful farmers of Loramie Township. On the 6th of November, 1851, he married Miss Hannah Johnston, daughter of William and Jane Johnston. Miss Johnston was born in Loramie Township, this county, December 18, 1825. By this union Mr. Akin has three children, viz., William, Maggie E., and Clara B.

deceased, was born in Washington Township, Shelby County, January 16, 1834. He was a son of James and Ann Akin, deceased. On the 1st of March, 1855, he married Miss E. Bell Johnston, who was born in Loramie Township, Shelby County, Ohio, daughter of William and Jane Johnston. Mr. and Mrs. Akin settled on the farm in section 3, Loramie Township, now owned and occupied by his widow and children, on which he passed the remainder of his days. On the evening of June 30th, 1868, while filling a lamp with oil, the oil took fire, which caused an explosion, bursting the oil can, and throwing the burning oil all over him. His clothes took fire and burned the upper part of his body to such an extent that he died on the 1st of July, 1808, only living about twenty-four hours after the accident occurred. He left a wife with four children, viz., James, Louisa, Jane E., and Catherine; also many friends to mourn the loss of a kind companion, an indulgent father, and a good citizen. He owned four good farms in Loramie and Washington Townships at the time of his death.

was born in Westmoreland County, Pa., October 2, 1827. He is a son of George Gartley, who was born on a vessel August 15, 1792, while his parents were emigrating from Ireland to America. After landing in America they located in Westmoreland County, Pa., where George Gartley passed his minority days on a farm. On the 29th of October, 1822, he married Miss Rebecca Berisford, who was born in Ireland in the year 1800. She came to America in 1820, and located in Westmoreland County, Pa. In 1834 Mr. and Mrs. George Gartley came to Ohio, and located on a farm near Washington, Fayette County, remained about three years, or until 1837, when they came to Shelby County, purchased, and settled on the east half of section 22, Loramie Township, on which they passed the remainder of their days. Mrs. Gartley died January 9, 1844. Mr. Gartley died March 15, 1871. He served in the war of 1812. He made farming his principal business through life. He filled the office of trustee for a number of years. He reared a family of six children, viz., George W., Andrew J., John, Robert, Samuel, and Alonzo L., all of whom are now dead except John and Alonzo L. George W. Gartley served in the Mexican War. He participated in the battle of Matamoras in 1847, and died of camp fever soon after the battle was fought. Robert, Samuel, and Alonzo L. served in the war of 1861.

John Gartley, subject of this sketch, came to Shelby County with his parents in 1837, and located in Loramie Township. He remained on the farm with his father until 1845, when he began working at the carpenter trade, which business he followed until 1854, when he returned to his father's home farm, on which he has since resided. His is now one of the leading farmers in the township. He has filled the office of township clerk and trustee for several years; also justice of the peace for six years. In the fall of 1863 he was elected commissioner of Shelby County, and filled the office one term. On the 7th of November, 1850, he married Miss Sarah A. Flinn. daughter of William N. and Mary Flinn. Miss Flinn was born near Houston, Shelby County, Ohio, June 8, 1831. By this union Mr. Gartley had six children, three of whom are now living, viz., Hudson, Maggie F., and Georgie.

was born in Loramie Township, tills county, July 18, 1836. He is a son of William N. and Mary Flinn, who were among the early settlers of Loramie Township. He was reared on a farm, and he made farming his principal business until 1877, when he engaged in the manufacturing of tile at North Houston, which business he has since been conducting. On the 3d of December, 1856, he married Miss Charlotte Harmoney, daughter of Christian and Elizabeth Harmoney. Miss Harmoney was born in Franklin County, Pa., July 5, 1836, and came to Shelby County with her parents in 1848. By this union he has four children, viz., Hudson, Mary E., Edward C., and Effle M. On the 1st of August, 1862, he enlisted in Company B, 50th O. V. I., served three years, and was honorably discharged from the service August 1st, 1865. He was in the Army of the Tennessee under Gen. Sherman.

In October, 1866, he was elected justice of the peace of Loramie Township. He has been re-elected six successive terms, and is now filling the office.

was born in Butler County, Ohio, January 5, 1813. He is a son of Joseph and Permelia Colby. In the autumn of 1834, he, in company with his brother, came to Shelby County, and purchased a piece of land near where Thomas Skillen now lives in Loramie Township. The land is now owned by George M. Emert. After remaining in this county a few weeks Mr. Colby and his brother returned to Butler County, where he remained until the autumn of 1837, when he, in company with his father's family, came to Shelby County, and located in Washington Township near Lockington.

On the 22d of March, 1838, he married Miss Abigail Johnston, who was born in Washington Township, Shelby County, Ohio, March 20, 1817. Mr. and Mrs. Colby settled on a farm in Washington Township, remained until the spring of 1845, when he purchased and moved on the farm in section 27, Loramie Township, on which they have since resided. They reared a family of five children, three of whom are now living, viz., Mary P., William H., and Samuel J., all of whom are now residing in Shelby County.

deceased, was born in Berks County, Pa., April 23, 1795. When he had attained the age of eighteen years, or in 1813, he began as an apprentice at the tanner trade in Harrisburg, Pa. After serving three years at the trade he came to Ohio in 1816, and located in Montgomery County, where he was engaged in a still-house and on a farm, until 1827 or '28, when he erected a tannery, and conducted the business of tanning about eleven or twelve years, or until 1839, when he sold his tannery, and turned his attention to farming, which business he conducted with success during the remainder of his life. About 1830 he married Miss Mary M. Metterd, then of Montgomery County, but a native of Maryland, where she was born April 7, 1808, and was brought to Montgomery County, Ohio, by her parents when a small child. In April, 1839, Mr. and Mrs. Emert came to Shelby County, and settled on a part of the northeast quarter of section 4, Loramie Township, on which they passed the remainder of their days. Mr. Emert died February 20, 1856. Mrs. Emert died February 27, 1882. They reared a family of three children, viz., George M., Benjamin, and Jonathan F. Benjamin died April 5, 1876. George M. and Jonathan F. served in the war of 1861.

* eldest son of Benjamin and Mary M. Emert, was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, May 13, 1834. He came to Shelly County in April, 1839, with his parents, and settled in Loramie Township. He is a carpenter by trade, which business he followed ten years, and then turned his attention to farming, and now owns one hundred and twenty-five acres of his father's home farm, on which he now resides. On the 7th of October, 1869, he married Miss Rebecca M. Shaw, daughter of David and Martha Shaw. Miss Shaw was born in Fayette County, Ohio, June 26, 1844, and came to Shelby County with her parents in 1846. By this union he has one child, viz., David B. Emert.

was born in Washington Township, Shelly County, Ohio, May 4, 1834. He is a son of Freeborn and Margaret Thompson, who were among the early settlers of Washington Township. His father died when he was only about three years of age. He now owns a good farm of eight}' acres, on which he has resided since March 17, 1875. He also owns a farm of eighty acres in Washington Township. On the 17th of February, 1875, he married Miss Jane McKee, who was born in Washington Township, Shelby County, Ohio, March 15, 1840, daughter of John and Catharine E. McKee.

was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, March 30, 1832. He is a son of John and Catherine Rhoades. He married Matilda Erisman, of Montgomery County, Ohio, who was born in 1835, daughter of John and Elizabeth Erisman. In 1861 Mr. and Mrs. Rhoades came to Shelby County and purchased and settled on the farm where they now reside. The}' have a family of nine children now living, viz., Elizabeth C., Laura A., John E., Sarah A., William H., George W., Mary E., Lucinda I., and Peter M.

was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, December 19, 1834, where his boyhood days were spent on a farm. He has made farming and stockraising his principal business through life, excepting about six months, during which time he was engaged in teaching school in Preble County, Ohio. In 1852 he came to Shelby County, made some improvements on section 30, Loramie Township, and then returned to Montgomery County. The land had been purchased by his father, John Apple, in 1847, and in 1855 Jacob S. Apple received a deed from his father. On the 28ih of June, 1857, he married Miss Sarah E. Creager, of Montgomery County, Ohio, who was born June 15, 1834. In October, 1857, Mr. and Mrs. Apple came to Shelby County and settled on his land in Loramie Township, on which they have since resided. They have a family of three children, viz., John W., Henry H., and George E. Mr. Apple served as trustee of Loramie Township about nine years, and township treasurer about the same length of time. He has also been a member of the school-board for a number of years. He has conducted the business of farming with success, and now owns two hundred and forty acres of good land in Loramie Township, and is considered one of the leading farmers of the township.

was born in Cynthian Township, Shelby County, Ohio, March 5, 1834, where his boyhood days were spent on a farm, ne is a son of George and Sarah Moyer, who were natives of Pennsylvania. They came to Shelby County some time prior to 1825, and settled in Cynthian Township.

George W. Moyer, subject of this sketch, has made farming bis principal vocation, and now owns a good farm of one hundred and twenty acres in Loramie Township, on which he has resided since the autumn of 1881. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company K, 1st Ohio Heavy Artillery, and served until August 7, 1865, when he was honorably discharged from the service and returned to his home in Shelby County. On the 20th of April, 1870, he married Miss Orilla Clifford, of Loramie Township, who was born April 14, 1839, by whom he has five children, one son and four daughters.

deceased, was born in the County Derry, Ireland, in March, 1199. He immigrated to America in 1819, and located near Philadelphia, Pa., where he remained until 1823, when he came to Ohio and located near Piqua, Miami County, where he engaged in farming. On the 22d of February, 1838, he married Miss Jane Anderson, then of Loramie Township, Shelby County, but a native of county Derry, Ireland, where she was born in May, 1802. When she had attained the age of one year, or in 1803, her parents, William and Martha (Barr) Anderson, immigrated to America and located in Pennsylvania, remained a few years, and then came to Ohio; and in October, 1 8 1 7, Miss Anderson came to Shelby County with her father (her mother being dead), who settled with his four children on the northeast quarter of section 28, Loramie Township. Mr. Anderson died January 23, 1832. Mr. and Mrs. Harper settled on a part of the Anderson homestead, on which they passed the remainder of their days. Mrs. Harper died September 4, 1873. Mr. Harper died April 6, 1874. They reared a family of three children, viz., James, Elizabeth, and Martha J. Elizabeth died May 16. 1876. James and Martha J. own the home farm, and are now living in Loramie Township.

son of James and Jane narper, was born in Loramie Township, Shelby County, O., April 6, 1840. He owned eighty acres of his father's home farm. On the 4th of February, 1882, he married Miss Mary E. Sharp (daughter of Jno. Sharp), then of Miami County, Ohio, but a native of Mercer County, 0., where she was born June 23, 1853, and came to Miami County with her parents in 1870.

son of William C. and Nancy n. Edwards, was born in Butler County, Ohio, Sept. 25, 1846. He came to Shelby County with his parents in May. 1866, and located in Loramie Township, where he has since resided. On the 22d of September, 1875, he married Miss Martha J. Harper, of this township, who was born August 9, 1846, daughter of James and Jane Harper. By this union he has one child, viz., Emery II. Edwards.

Mr. Edwards was born in the State of New Jersey May 26, 1803. When he had attained the age of two years, or in 1 805, his parents, Uzal anil Mary Edwards, came to Ohio and located in Butler County, where young Edwards grew to manhood on a farm. On the 14th of April, 1831, he married Miss Nancy Hall, then of Butler County, Ohio, but a native of Fayette County, Pa., where she was born May 29, 1809, and was brought to Butler County, O., by her parents, Hugh H. and Nancy Butler Hall, in 1811. Mr. and Mrs. Edwards settled on a farm in Butler County, remained until May, 1866, when they came to Shelby County, purchased and moved on the farm in Loramie Township, on which they are now living. They reared a family of seven children, viz., Benjamin H., Angeline, Oscar F., Harriet II., Julius J., Bryant H., and Wilber J. A ngeline, Harriet II., and Bryant II. live in Loramie Township, this county ; Benjamin 11. resides in his native county ; Oscar F. in Montgomery. County, Ohio; Julius J. in Hamilton County, Ohio, and Wilber J. lives in Darke County, Ohio. Mr. Edwards Oiled the olfiee of justice of the peace in Butler County six years.

deceased, was born in Butler County, Ohio, July 27, 1834. He was reared on a farm. On the 8th of October, 1856, he married Miss Angcline Edwards, who was born in Butler County, Ohio, Jan. 22, 1834, daughter of William C. and Nancy Edwards. In 1858 Mr. and Mrs. Peters moved to Illinois and located in Clarke County. On the 2d of August, 1862, Mr. Peters enlisted in Company I, 79th Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and entered the Union Army. Soon after he entered the army Mrs. Peters returned to her native county in Ohio. Mr. Peters was mustered into the service August 28, 1862, served faithfully until August 10, 1863, when he was honorably discharged from the service on account of physical disability, and returned to his old home in Butler County, remained until 1867, when with his wife and three children, he came to Shelby County and located in Loramie Township. In 1868 they purchased and moved on the farm in section 16, near Mount Jefferson, on which Mrs. Peters is now residing. Mr. Peters died July 18, 1872, leaving his widow with five children, viz., William E., Oscar O., Mary, Nancy J., and Myrtie L., and many frieuds to mourn the loss of a kind husband, an indulgent parent, and a good citizen.

a native of France, was born April 22, 1820. In 1840 be, in company with his parents, Claude and Magdalena Adam, emigrated to America and located in Shelby County, Ohio, purchased and settled on the southwest quarter of section 8, Loramie Township, on which his father, Claude Adam, died Sept. 4, 1843, at the age of seventy-two years. His mother,

Magdalena Adam, died Sept. 14, 1845. Hubert Adam, the subject of this sketch, has made farming his vocation, and now owns a good farm of one hundred and twenty acres, on which he has resided since 1848. On the 10th of January 1849, he married Miss Mary J. Bushwaw, then of Urlmna, Ohio, but a native of France, where she was born Dec. 24, 1830, and came to Ohio with her parents, Hubert and Mary Bushwaw, in 1840. By this union he had seven children, five of whom are now living, viz., August H., Margaret Virginia, Mary Adeline, Mary Louisa, and Charles J. Mr. Adam filled the office of treasurer of Loramie Township about five years. He is esteemed and highly respected by all who know him.

was born in Luzerne County, Pa., Sept. 5, 1812, where his minority days were spent on a farm. In 1833 he came to Ohio and located near Loudcnville, Ashland County, where he was engaged in teaching school for several terms. In 1838 he came to western Ohio and located in the neighborhood of Lima, Allen County, where in 1842 he married Miss Mar}- Ann Smith, a native of Essex County, N. Y., where she was born Sept. 15, 1822. In 1845 Mr. and Mrs. Pell came to Shelby County and located in Loramie Township. In 1849 he purchased and moved on the farm in section 15, on which he has since resided. He followed teaching school as his principal vocation about thirty-five .years, or until 1868, when he retired from teaching. After his settlement in Loramie Township he conducted the business of farming in connection with teaching until 1868,8ince which time he has given all of his time to farming. He reared a family of four children, viz., Calvin L., Caroline E., Daniel H., and Jennie E.

was born in Montgomery Count}-, Ohio, December 6, 1823. He is a son of John and Catharine Rhoades, who were natives of Virginia. He received a common school education. He has made farming his principal business. He has resided on the same farm the past thirty-five years. In January, 1845, he married Miss Elizabeth Rhidenour, who was born in Maryland, and came to Montgomery County with her pa reuts, George and Susan Rhidenour. In 1847 Mr. and Mrs. Rhoades came to Shelby County, purchased, and settled on the farm in Loramie Township, on which they now reside. They have a family of seven children, viz., Lewis, Ann, Lydia, Harriett, Catharine, Emma, and Levi. Mr. Rhoades it now filling the office of township trustee, and lie has occupied the position of local director for school district No. 5, for the past six years.

In Franklin County, Pa., on the 14th of April, 1807, Mr. Harmony was borif. He was brought up on a farm, and made farming his vocation until about twenty-seven years of age, or in 1834, when he engaged in the hotel business in Franklin County, Pa., near the pike leading from Cbamhersbnrg to Gettysburg, which business he conducted with success about ten years, or until 1844, when he again turned his attention to farming. In 1 848 he came to Shelby County, purchased, and settled on a fanq of 130 acres of land in section 13, Loramie Township. In 1858 he rented his farm, and moved to Houston, this county, where he was engaged in the hotel business about six years. He also conducted the business of dealing in general merchandise in connection with his hotel until 1864, when he sold his goods and property in Houston, and moved back on his farm, where he is now living a retired life. On the 20th of March, 1834, he married Miss Elizabeth Palmer, of Franklin County, Pa., who was born March 18, 1810, daughter of Michael and Catharine Palmer. By this union he reared a family of six children, viz., Mary J., Charlotte, Alexander, Elizabeth, William, and John. Elizabeth is now dead. His son Alexander served about three years in the war of 1861.

deceased, was born in France in 1807. He married Miss Mary Monnier in 1834, who was born in France in 1809. Mr. and Mrs. Didier settled in their native country, remained until December, 1851, when they with a family of eight children started for America, landing in New Orleans. From there they continued their journey northward until February 22, 1852, when they reached Shelby County, Ohio, and located in Loramie Township, on the west half of the northeast quarter of section 15, where they passed the remainder of their days. Mrs. Didier died July 31, 1875, and Mr. D. May 31, 1881. They reared a family of eight children, viz., Deile, Mary, Catharine, Stephen, Francis, Nicholas, Louisa, and Gustin.

Deile Didier was twice married; first to Louisa Marshall, by whom he had two children, one of whom is now living. His second wife was Josephine Pour, by whom he had six children. He died July 25, 1881, leaving a wife and seven children to mourn the loss of a husband and father.

Stephen Didier was born in France in February, 1839. He came to Shelby County with his parents in February, 1852, and has since been a resident of Loramie Township. On the 17th of April, 1866, he married Miss Lucy Debrosse, who was horn in Loramie Township, this county, May 21, 1846, daughter of Peter J. and Catharine Debrosse. They settled on the farm in section 2, Loramie Township, on which they have since resided. They have a family of seven children, five sons and two daughters. He now owns a farm of eighty acres.

Francis Didier was born in France January 8, 1842. He came to Shelby County with his parents in 1852, and has since been a citizen of Loramie Township. On the 7th of April, 1864, he married Miss Judith Lachat, by whom he has a family of eight children now living, two sons and six daughters. He filled the office of supervisor in Loramie Township two years, township trustee three years, assessor two terms, land appraiser for 1880. In April, 1881, he was elected treasurer of Loramie Township, -re-elected in April, 1882, and is now filling the ofHee. He 1ms been successfully engaged in the business of farming, stock-raising, storekeeping, and buying and selling grain of all kinds. At this date, July, 1882, lie is conducting the grain business at Russia. He also holds the position as postmaster at Russia, having been appointed in 1880.

Nicholas Didie'r, Jr., was born in France September 15, 1845. He came to America with his parents in 1852, and located in Loramie Township, Shelby County, Ohio. On the 11th of February, 1868, he married Miss Rosina Peltier, then of Loramie Township, but a native of France, where she was born July 25, 1846, and came to Shelby County with her parents, Lewis and Mary Peltier, in 1848. Mr. and Mrs. Didier settled on her father's home farm in Loramie Township, remained about two years, or until November, 1870, when they moved to Michigan, where they lived about five years, or until November, 1875, when they returned to Shelby County, and again located in Loramie Township, where they have since resided. They have a family of six children, three sons and three daughters. He has made farming his vocation.

deceased, was born in the Canton of Berne, Switzerland, in 1805. He was twice married - first to a lady of his native country, by whom he had five children, viz., Mary L., Frank, Havier, Catharine, and George J., all of whom came to America with their father in 1853, and are yet living. Mr. Monnin's second marriage was to Miss Mary Ann Chevre, who was born in Switzerland in 1815. In 1853 Mr. and Mrs. Monnin emigrated to America and located in Dayton, Ohio, where they remained about two years, or until 1855, when they came to Shelby County and located in Loramie Township, near Houston, where Mr. Monnin died in October, 1855. His wife survived him until February, 1856. By his second marriage ho had five children, four of whom were born in Switzerland, viz., John B., Justin F., Ignace, and Rosine; and one was born in Dayton, Ohio, viz., Joseph D. He .was the father of ten children, all of whom are yet living. He served in the army of his native country for several years. His father, Peter J. Monnin, served in the French army under Napoleon 1. about eighteen years.

son of John George and Mary Ann Monnin, was born in Switzerland November 25, 1844. He came to Shelby County with his parents in 1855, and located in Loramie Township, where he has since resided. On the 24th of November, 1868, he married Miss Louisa Didier, then of Loramie Township, this county, but a native of France, where she was born July 22, 1848, and was brought to Shelby County by her parents, Nicholas and Mary Didier, in 1852. Mr. and Mrs. Monnin settled on the farm in section 15, Loramie Township, on which they now reside. They have a family of seven children, -four sons and three daughters. He has made farmiug his principal vocation, and now owns a farm of eighty acres.

was bom in Switzerland April 9, 1 8 1 3, where he grew to manhood. In 1 845 he emigrated to America and located in Wayne Co., Ohio, where he remained about two years, or until 1847, when he moved to Michigan, and located in Wayne Co., where on the 7th of January, 1849, he married Miss Margaret Chaivre, then of Wayne Co., Mich., but a native of France, where she was born April 27,1830. Mr.and Mrs. Echman settled in Michigan, remaining until 1866, when they came to Shelby County and purchased and moved on the farm in the southwest quarter of section 12, on which they now reside. He has made farming his principal business. He served five years in the Swiss army. He reared a family of eight children, two sons and six daughters.

was born in Wayne County, Ohio, December 5, 1848. He is a son of Nicholas and Rosannah Eshaman, who were natives of Switzerland, and emigrated to America in 1846, locating in Wayne County, Ohio. In lf-57 they came to Shelby County and settled in Cynthian Township near Newport, where they remained about five years, or until 1862, when they moved to Darke County and settled on a farm two miles west of Russia, on which Mr. Nicholas Eshaman died August 30, 1866. Soon after his death Mrs. Eshaman, with a family of eight children, moved to Loramie Township, where she remained until 1877, when she returned to Wayne County, Ohio, where she now resides. Also all of the children are now living in Wayne County, except Albert F. Eshaman, who resides in Loramie Township, Shelby County. On the 8th of October, 1872, he married Miss Elizabeth Malliott, of Loramie Township, daughter of John B. and Constance Malliott. By this union he has three children, one son and two daughters. He has been successfully engaged in the business of threshing, dealing in groceries, and farming.

was bprn in Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, Germany, October 6, 1830. He is a son of Frederick Baumgarden, who was born in Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, Germany, July 20, 1800. He married Miss Elizabeth Sefferd, of same county, Germany, who was born December 15, 1803. Mr. and Mrs. Baumgarden remained in their native country until May 7, 1847, when they started for America, and after a long and toilsome journey of two months' duration they reached Shelby County. August 8, 1847, purchased and moved on section 23, Loramie Township, where Mrs. Baumgarden died February 8, 1871. Soon after her death Mr. Baumgarden moved to Piqua, Miami County, Ohio, where he now resides. He served several years in the German army. He reared a family of seven children, viz., Lewis C., Edward C., Rosanna, Torate, Caroline, Hannah, and Frederick G. Torate ami Caroline are dead.

Edward C. Baumgarden, subject of this sketch, came to Shelby County with his parents in 1847, and has since been a citizen of Loramie Township. He has made farming his vocation, and now owns a good farm of one hundred and forty acres, on which he has resided since March, 1873. He filled the office of township trustee two years, On the 7th of November, 1861, he married Miss Joannah Mader, then of Loramie Township, but a native of Germany, where she was born December 10, 1837, and came to Shelby County with her father, Frederick G. Mader, in 1845, who settled in Loramie Township.

was born in Baden, Germany, December 1, 1820. He engaged as a hand on the vessel known as the George Victoria in 1836, which ran on the river Rhine from Strasburg to Metz, which business he followed about seven years. In the summer of 1843 he left the vessel. In November, 1843, he married Miss Salome Kaiser, of Baden, Germany, born February 21, 1821. On the 1st of Deeemt>er, 1843, Mr. and Mrs. Fessler left their native country for America, and landed at New Orleans in January, 1844, and from there they came to Ohio, reaching Cincinnati February 12th, same year, where they remained until January, 1849, when they came to Shelby County and purchased the farm on which they have since resided. He now owns a good farm of eighty acres, with good improvements, which is the result of his own labor. He reared a family of ten children, all of whom are yet living, viz., Caroline, George, Salome, John F., Malinda, Jacob, David, Rosanna, Michael, and Mary M.

was born in Baden, Germany, December 15, 1816. He was brought up on a farm, and has made farming his principal business. He emigrated to America, landing at New Orleans in April, 1844. From there he went to St. Louis, remained about two months, then came to Ohio, and located in Cincinnati, where he remained about eighteen months, and in

1847 he came to Shelby County, purchased land in section 29, Loramie Township, at a cost of $500, or $6.25 per acre, and then returned to his home in Miami County. In December, 1848, he married Miss Elizabeth Ganger, of Miami County, but a native of Montgomery County, Ohio, born June 23, 1829. Mr. and Mrs. Stephen moved on his land in Loramie Township January, 1849, on which they have since resided. They reared a family of seven children, viz., Malinda M., Henry, Daniel, John, Margaret, Mary C., and Louisa E. Malinda M. died March 1, 1882. The remaining six children are all residing in Shelby County.

In New Haven, Conn., on the 26th day of January, 1812, Mr. Prichard was born. He is a son of John Prichard, who was a native of Connecticut. He was a son of Abram Prichard, who was also a native of Connecticut, and served in the Revolutionary War. j located in Montgomery County, where, on the 13th of October, 1842, he married Miss Margaret Wead, of Montgomery County, where she was born September 16, 1816. Mr. and Mrs. Prichard settled in Montgomery County, remained until 1846, when they moved to Miami County, remained until 1849, when they came to Shelby County, and settled on a farm near Berlin, in McLean Township. In July, 1852, they moved to Washington Township, and settled near Lockport, where the}' remained until 1873, when they came to Loramie Township, purciiased, and moved on the farm in section 15, on which they are now residing. They reared a family of three children, viz., Elizabeth A., William A., and Francis J. Mr. Pritchard is a eloekrnnker by trade, which he followed from 1831 until 1846, when he turned his attention to farming, which business he conducted with success until a few years since, when he retired from business.

was born in Hamilton County, Ohio, March 17, 1832. He is a son of Tunis Cox, who was born in New Jersey in 1802. When he had attained the age of eight years, his parents, William and Mary Cox, moved to Ohio, and located in Hamilton County. William Cox served in the war of 1812. On the 2d of November, 1820, Tunis Cox married Miss Nancy Sparks, who was born in Hamilton County, Ohio, October 2d, 1800. By this union he had twelve children, all of whom grew to be men and women, and seven of the number are yet alive, viz., William, Thompson, Sally S., Elizabeth, Isaac S., Martha J., and George W.. Mrs. Cox died June 7, 1841. On the 7th of September, 1842, Mr. Cox married Sarah Sorter, with whom he lived until the time of his death, which occurred December 23, 1865, leaving a companion and a large family of children to mourn the loss of a husband and father.

Isaac S. Cox, subject of this sketch, was reared on a farm. On the 25th of November, 1851, he married Miss Catharine Mahadda, who was born in Hamilton County, Ohio, October 3, 1830. In the spring of 1852 Mr. and Mrs. Cox left their native county in Ohio, and started for California, leaving Cincinnati March 10th. They travelled by water until they reached Parkville, Missouri, a small village located about thirty miles above Kansas City. From that point they continued their journey westward with ox teams, leaving Parkville May 3d, and after a long and toilsome journey over the mountains and across the plains they reached Placerville, Eldorado County, California, some time during the latter part of August, same year. From there they went to Calmahill, Calaveras County, where he engaged in mining, which he followed about eight months, or until May, 1853, when they moved to San Joaquin County, and located on a ranch. He then turned his attention to farming. In 1858 he sold his ranch, and returned to Ohio by water by the way of the Isthmus of Panama and New York City, reaching their old home in Hamilton County June 1, 1858. On the 27th of June, same year, he came to Shelby County, purchased a farm of 207 acres, 87 acres of which is in section 3, and the balance in section 10, Loramie Township, ou which he moved his family August 3, 1858, and has since resided, excepting from the autumn of 1869 until the autumn of 1872, during which time he was living in Piqua, Miami County, where he was engaged in the livery business. He reared a family of three children, viz., Alexander, California, and Lilly May. He is now giving all of his time to farming, and is one among the leading farmers of Loramie Township.

son of Presley and Salina Ross, was born in Clarke County, Ohio, January 31, 1851. His father died when he was yet a small child, leaving him without paternal care. In the spring of 1855 he came to Shelby County with his mother and stepfather, Jacob Wagoner, who located in Loramie Township, a short distance southeast of Mt. Jefferson, where Mr. Ross's boyhood days were spent on a farm. He was educated in the Normal School of Lebanon, Ohio. In 1876 he began the study of medicine under John S. Gard, M.D., of Treraont City, Clarke County, Ohio. In the autumn of 1877 he entered the Medical College of Ohio, located at Cincinnati, and graduated in the class of 1879. Soon after receiving his diploma he located in Mt. Jefferson, Loramie Township, where he has since been engaged in the practice of his profession, in which he has been very successful, and by close application to business he has established for himself a large practice, considering the length of time he has been engaged iu the practice of medicine. On the 1st of October, 1880, he married Miss Ann M., daughter of Michael Snyder, of Piqua, Ohio.

was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, October 16, 1830. When he had attained the age of three years, or in 1833, he was brought to Miami County, Ohio, by his parents, Matthias and Barbara Hollopeter, where he passed his boyhood days on a farm. He was educated in the schools at Covington, Miami County, Ohio. In 1 848 he commenced teaching school, which he followed as his vocation during the winter months for several years. In 1852 he began the study of medicine under John Harrison, M.D., of Covington, Ohio. He attended the Ohio Medical College at Cincinnati, and in 1856 he began the practice of medicine in the vicinity of Gettysburg, Darke County, Ohio, where he remained one year, or until February, 1857, when he came to Shelby County and located in Mt. Jefferson, Loramie Township, where he has since been successfully engaged in the practice of his profession. On the 20th of September, 1855, he married Miss Hannah Thompson, of Miami County, Ohio, who was born August 24, 1834, daughter of William and Nancy Thompson. By this union he has a family of seven children, viz., Huldnh J., James S., John M., Anna E., Elizabeth, Charles I., and Amanda R.

was born in Germany October 15, 1829. He emigrated to America with his parents, Adam and Catherine Hergenrather, in 1842, and located in Dayton, Ohio. In 1847 he began working at the blacksmith trade iu Dayton, where he continued at the business until 1851, when he came to Shelby County and located in Loramie Township, and has since been a resident of the township. He carried on the business of blacksmithing in Houston and Mt. Jefferson until in 1866, when he retired from his trade, and engaged in dealing in groceries and provisions in Mt. Jefferson, which business he has been conducting with success. He is now Ailing the office of trustee of Loramie Township. On the 2d of November, 1855, lie married Miss Elizabeth Wolfrom, then of Cynthian Township, this county, but a native of Miami County, Ohio, where she was born in 1836, daughter of John and Margaret Wolfrom.

Mr. Delaet was born in Elsass, France, April 5, 1840. He emigrated to America in 1861, and located in Houston, this county, where in 1863 he engaged in the mercantile business, which he has since been conducting with success. On the 15th of June, 1863, he married Miss Rose Voisard, of Miami County, Ohio, born September 27, 1845. Mr. and Mrs. Delaet settled in Houston, where they have since resided. They have a family of four children, viz., Christina M:, Elizabeth M., Beot J., and Alfie C.

son of John and Rebecca Holbert, was born in Marion County, W. Ya., May 31, 1850. When he had attained the age of three years his parents moved to Ohio, and located near Canal-Winchester, Franklin County, where his minority days were speut on a farm. On the 5th of December, 1876, he married Miss Margery F., daughter of Edward and Arabella Ashton. Miss Ashton was born in Franklin County, Ohio, September 9, 1854. Mr. and Mrs. Holbert settled in Franklin County, where they remained until October, 1878, when they came to Shelby County and purchased the land on which they now reside. They have two children, both sons.

was born in Union County, Pa., June 20, 1820. He is a son of Abraham Whitmer, who was a native of Lancaster County, Pa. His father, John Whitmer, was a native of Germany, and emigrated to America a short time prior to the Revolution, and located in Pennsylvania.

Abraham Whitmer, subject of this sketch, moved to Ohio in 1842, and located in Miami County, where on the 5th of October, 1845, he married Miss Mary Deeter, of Miami County, who was born November 5, 1828, daughter of David and Elizabeth Deeter. Mr. and Mrs. Whitmer settled on a farm in Miami County and remained until the spring of 1865, when they came to Shelby County and purchased and moved on the farm on which Mr. Whitmer now resides. He is a blacksmith by trade, which business he conducted with success, in connection with farming, for about twenty-five years, or until 1865, when he retired from his trade, and has since given his entire attention to fanning. He now owns a good farm of one hundred and sixty acres. His wife died November 17, 1877. He reared a family of seven children, viz., Elizabeth, Harriet, David, Henry C., Lovina, Joshua, and Anna.

was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, January 7, 1839. ne is a son of Frederick and Catharine Miller, who were natives of Berks County, Pa., came to Ohio in 1832, and located in Montgomery County.

Jeremiah Miller, subject of this sketch, was reared on a farm. On the 26th of April, 1860, he married Miss Hannah Swihart, of Montgomery County, who was born May 26, 1839, daughter of Jonathan and Sophia Swihart. Mr. and Mrs. Miller settled in Montgomery County and remained there until August, 1873, when they came to Shelby County and moved on the farm iu section 22, Loramie Township, on which they now reside. They have four children, viz., Harvey O., Levi P., Lillie (j., and William S. In April, 1875, he was elected clerk of Loramie Township, and served one year. In November, 1880, he was elected justice of the peace of the township, and is now filling the office.

was born in Auglaize County, Ohio, Nov. 9., 1840. He is a son of Henry and Elizabeth Dickerson. In May, 1862, lie moved to Miami County, Ohio, and located for a short time in Newberry Township. In Aug. 1862, he enlisted in Company 1, 1 1 0th O. V. I. and entered the army in defence of his country. lie served faithfully until March, 1864, when he was honorably discharged from the service on account of physical disability, and returned to Miami County. On the 20th of Sept. 1866, he married Miss Anna E. Templeton, of Miami County, who was born June 6, 1842, daughter of David and Eliza Templeton. Mr. and Mrs. Dickerson remained in Miami County until Jan. 8, 1873, when they came to Shelby County and moved on the farm on which he now resides, nis companion died Sept. 4, 1877, leaving him witli three children, viz., Sally, Thurman T., and Etoila M. On the 3d of Oct. 1878, he married Miss Mary Harrope, who was born in Loramie Township, this county, Feb. 19, 1843, daughter of William and Mary Harrope.

was born in Miami County, Ohio, Feb. 14, 1844, where he passed his minority days. Aug. 22, 1862, he enlisted in Company A, 110th 0. V. 1., served until May 18, 1865, when he was honorably discharged from the service and returned to his home in Miami County. In the autumn of 1»65 he engaged in the furniture business in Piqua, Ohio, which he conducted about two years, or until the autumn of 1867, when he came to Shelby County and located in Hardin, Turtle Creek Township, where he was engaged in the saw-mill business for several years, or until 1872 or '73, when he returned to Piqua and entered his brother's furniture store as a clerk, with whom he remained until 1876, when he came to Shelby County and located in Loramie Township. Soon after his settlement in the township he purchased the steam saw-mill now known as the Crone & Wright Mill, located in section 3, near the canal and the C. C. C. and I. 11. R , on which he has since been conducting the business of manufacturing and dealing in all kinds of hard-wood lumber. In 1878 he purchased a half interest in the Wright ft- Pam pel l Farm and Ice-houses, and has since been a partner in the firm of "Crone & Wright," who conducted the business of farming and dealing in ice. On the 1st of April, 1866, he married Miss Lea L. Hamilton, of Miami County, by whom he has four children now living, viz., Harry W., Ora N., Mary E., and Joseph H.

Source changes here: from History of Shelby County, Ohio, and Representative Citizens, by Hitchcock, Almon Baldwin Carrington, published 1913; 5,415 words in this source stream.

Loramie Township

Begins between sections 25 and 26, town. 9, range 5, at the county line at southwest corner of Turtle Creek township; thence north with said Turtle Creek township line to the line between sections 35 and 36. town. 10. range 5 ; thence west to the county line ; thence south to the southwest corner of the county ; thence east to place of beginning.

This township, located in the southwest corner of the county, is more or less distinguished from the other townships in its citizenship and its customs. It is quite cosmopolitan in its citizenship, but from an early period the western portion has been settled largely by the French. It is traversed by the Big Four Railroad, with three stations in the township, namely: Dawson, North Houston and Russia. The old canal cuts through the northeast corner of the township.

Loramie township is for the most part level and is exceedingly rich in its soil. It is well drained as within its limits are to be found Loramie creek and Nine Mile creek, together with various small tributaries. It is well suited for general agriculture, all products growing here readily. The first settlers came shortly prior to the War of 1812, and among the first of whom there is any knowledge was Samuel McClure, who with his family settled on what afterward became known as the J. W. Akin farm in section 9. There were only occasional arrivals during the war, but about 1814 settlers began coming in numbers. In that year came Robert and David Houston, and they were followed the succeeding year by William and John Houston. Among others of that early period who cast their fortunes with that of the township were the following: William Morrow, who came from Cumberland, Pa., in 181 5; William Johnston of Pennsylvania in 1816 and John Patterson the same year; William Skillen from Westmoreland county, Pa., in 1817, and shortly before that time Zebediah Richardson, William Anderson and Thomas Wyatt; Henry Zemer and Jacob Black, in 1818; Jacob Everly, David Clark, Henry Harp and Robert Johnson were to be found here in 1820; William Johnston of Ireland, James Harvey and Joseph Blackwood came in 1823; William Ellis in 1826; Henry Day in 1830; Joseph Wyatt in 1831; William Legg in 1832; John Worley and Jacob Rouston, the latter from Maryland, in 1833; Christian Mader of Germany in 1834; Jacob S. Apple from Montgomery county, O., in 1837; Fred Bishop of Germany in 1838, and about the same time, J. R. Griffis of Butler county, O. ; William Harrup from England in 1839: Emanuel Sherer in 1840; Henry S. Apple from Montgomery county, O., in 1843; a"d Peter Wright, who in 1839 came to Cynthian township from