Seneca Township (part 24 of 60)

Amos Decker was born in Thompson township, Seneca county, on the old Decker homestead which he now owns, his natal day being the nth of November, 1839. His father, Jacob Decker, was born in Union countyy Pennsylvania, in 1809, and was a son of John Decker, who emigrated with his family to Wayne county, Ohio, taking up his abode there in 181 6. He entered a tract of land from the government and in 1830 came to Seneca county, establishing his home in Thompson township, where he again secured government land. This is now the property of Henry Luce. He married Julia A. Royer and in the pioneer style of the times they began their domestic life. As the years passed Mr. Decker accumulated considerable land and he also entered from the government the quarter-section upon which our subject was born. He died in his sixty-fourth year and the community mourned the loss of one of its representative and valuable citizens, for he had taken an active and helpful part in many measures for the general good. He aided in organizing the schools of Thompson township, was an active worker in the Reformed church and co-operated earnestly in every movement which he believed would advance the general welfare and progress of his county. ' both because his services were needed in clearing and developing his father's farm and because of the primitive condition of the schools at that time. He was only seven years of age when with his parents he came to Ohio, and thus amid the wild scenes of the frontier he was reared. In 1828 he began working at the carpenter's trade, which he followed for three years, and was then married, in 1831, after which he lived for one year on the old homestead. He then removed to the farm upon which the birth of Amos Decker occurred, and made that place his home until 1868, when he took up his abode upon an adjoining farm, remaining there for two years. On the expiration of that period he removed to Bellevue, where his remaining days were passed, his death occurring on the 7th of November, 1896, when he had reached the advanced age of eighty-seven years. He married Miss Susan Billman, and they became the parents of six children, namely: Barbara, the wife of Joseph Sherck, of Bellevue; John, w^ho is living near Brinkley, Arkansas, where he owns and operates a ranch ; David, who is a farmer and veterinary surgeon of Oklahoma; Amos, of this review; Milton, of Bellevue : and Jefferson, who died in infancy. In public affairs Hon. Jacob Decker was quite prominent. He served for two terms as county commissioner and in 1849 was elected a representative of his district in the state legislature. Again he was called to that position, defeating William H. Gibson, one of the most prominent and influential residents of Seneca county. He was an active member of the general assembly of Ohio and to each question which came up for consideration he gave earnest thought and attention, fearlessly supporting the measures which he believed to be right, and with equal ardor opposing those which he believed would work to the detriment of his county and state. He voted with the Democracy and it was on the ticket of that party that he was elected to office.

Amos Decker, who was born and reared on the old family homestead, entered the district schools at the usual age and afterward became a student in the Republic Academy under Professor Aaron Schuyler, the noted mathematician. When twenty-one years of age he took charge of the old home farm and throughout his entire life has been engaged in agricultural pursuits. As a companion and helpmate for the journey of life he chose Miss Lucy Paine, a daughter of Hon. John W. Paine and a granddaughter of John Paine, who was one of the pioneer settlers of Adams township, Seneca county. It was in that township that Mr. and Mrs. Paine married, and in 1865 they removed to Thompson township to the farm upon which Christian Woleslagle now resides. Mr. Paine served as notary public and also held tlie office of justice of the peace in Adams township. He was an attorney at law and his knowledge of the principles of jurisprudence enabled him to discharge his duties as justice with excellent ability. He was called to represent his district in the state legislature, serving during the sessions of 1856-7 and succeeding Jacob Decker. For a second term he was elected and held the office in 1860-61. He left the impress of his individuality upon the legislation enacted during those periods and widely was he recognized as one of the most prominent and honored residents of his community. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Decker was celebrated October 20, 1864, and afterward he took charge of the old home fann. In 1866 he purchased a part of this, becoming owner of one hundred and eighty acres. He made his home thereon for nine years and then came to the farm upon which he now resides. Many excellent improvements has he placed upon his property. He has here sixty-seven acres, but his landed possessions aggregate three hundred and twenty-seven acres, in Thompson township. He carries on general farming and stock-raising, having for many years purchased and sold stock in connection with his farm operations. In 1887 he became connected with the grain trade in Bellevue, where he remained for three years, associated with Mr. Gardner for two years of that time and afterward with his father, Jacob Decker. He next formed a partnership with Mr. Sherck, to whom he subsequently sold his interest. In all his business undertakings his effores have been characterized by enterprise, sound judgment and executive ability. He carries forward tosuccessful completion whatever he undertakes and his labors have been crowned with a high degree of success.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Decker have been born fourteen children: Emma, the wife of J. D. Royer, of Thompson township; Clara, the wife of S. F. Royer, a brother of Judge J. C. Royer, of Tiffin; Susie, the wife of E. E. Elliott, of York township, Sandusky county; Mary, who was engaged in teaching for several years and is living with her parents; Charles A., who makes his home in Thompson township; Mattie V., who for three years has been engaged in teaching; Myra, Harry W., Ralph and Ross, all of whom are now under the parental roof;, Irvin J. and Sarah, who passed away in infancy, as w^l as an infant not named; and Nelson, who died at the age of thirteen years.

Mr. Decker has for many years been recognized as a leader of public thought and opinion in his locality. In 1880 he was chosen to represent his district in the legislature, and by re-election served for two consecutive terms. He was an active and honored member of that body, served on a number of important committees, and to the best of his ability - and that ability is of no inferior order - ^he labored for the interest of his constituents and for the welfare of the commonwealth. He has also served in a number of local offices, for many years being a member of the school board, part of that time as its president. For four years he was township clerk and in 1890 was chosen justice of the peace, in which capacity he served until 1900. On two different occasions he was land appraiser. He has been a member of the central committee of the Democratic party and is generally found as a delegate to the principal party conventions. He is justly accorded a place among the prominent and representative citizens of Seneca county, for he belongs to that class of men whose enterprising spirit is used not alone for their own benefit. Mr. Decker is widely and favorably known throughout the state, his abilities well fitting him for leadership in political, business and social life. The terms progress and patriotism might be considered the keynote of his character, for throughout his career he has labored for the improvement of every line of busines or public interest with which he has been associated, and at all times has been actuated by a fidelity to his country and her welfare.

Anton Scherger

Though no land is richer in opportunities or offers greater advantages to its citizens than America, success is not to be obtained through desire, but must be persistently sought. In America "labor is king," and the man who resolutely sets to work to accomplish a given purpose is certain of success if he has but the qualities of perseverance, untiring energy and practical common sense. Anton Scherger is one whose career excites the admiration and gains the respect of all, for through his diligence and persistent purpose he has won a leading place in agricultural circles in Seneca county, where he has made his home since the age of eight years.

Mr. Scherger was born in Germany April 15, 1837, a son of Anthony and Josephine Scherger, in whose family were three sons, our subject being the eldest. Constantine is now engaged in the marble business in Delphos, Ohio, and John Dolphus is a blacksmith at the same place. It was about 1844 that the father determined to seek a home in the new world, for, having heard favorable reports of the opportunities here offered, he believed that he might improve his financial condition in America. Accompanied by his wife and children, he took passage on a sailing vessel and on reaching the western shore of the Atlantic proceeded across the country to Cincinnati, where he remained for about a year. He then came to Seneca county and purchased forty acres of land in Liberty township, for which he paid two hundred dollars. There was a log cabin containing one room upon the place and the trees had been cut down on a five-acre tract, but the brush had not been cleared. Mr. Scherger at once began the further development of the place and soon the monarchs of the forest fell before his sturdy strokes. As acre after acrel was cleared he cultivated his fields, and in course of time golden harvests rewarded his labors. He continued to engage in agricultural pursuits until his death, which occurred when he was seventy-three years of age. His wife survived him only a short period and then she, too, passed away. They were members of the Catholic church and were numbered among the worthy German citizens of Seneca county who have

Anton Scherger spent the first seven years of his life in the fatherland and then accompanied his parents on the long voyage across the Atlantic. He was a youth of eight when the family arrived in Liberty township and he contributed his full share to- the arduous task of developing the home farm. The public schools afforded him his educational opportunities and through the winter months he pursued his studies, working in field and meadow in the summer seasons. On attaining his majority he began farming on his own account, taking charge of the old home place, which he has improved and operated until the present time. Here he has five hundred acres of valuable land, and he has elsewhere three other farms, so that his realty holdings aggregate eight hundred and sixty acres, constituting a very valuable and desirable property. His attention is given to general farming and stock-raising and in both branches of his business he is meeting with creditable success. All of the splendid improvements upon his place are monuments to his enterprise, industry and economy, and to-day his is one of the best equipped farms in this portion of Ohio. In 1889 he erected his beautiful nine-room residence, which is built of brick and has a slate roof. He has also built commodious and substantial barns and outbuildings and has a model country seat.

Mr. Scherger was united in marriage April 25, 1857, to Miss Dorothy Albert, and unto them have been born ten children: Lawrence; Annie ; John, deceased at thirty-six ; Michael ; Theresa ; Henry ; Andrew ; Joseph, Mary and Frank. Annie is the wife of Martin Hammer, of Jackson township; Therese is the wife of Joseph Burns, of Loudon township: and Mary is the widow of Stephen Hartenstine and resides with her parents. She has one child, Frank Alfred.

The parents and their children are communicants of St. Andre^v's Catholic church, and in his political affiliations Mr. Scherger is a Democrat, who warmly endorses the principles of the party which he believes most conducive to good government. During all the years of his residence in Seneca county he has given his support to measures for the general welfare and has always been accounted one of the most progressive and practical farmers since he became identified with agricultural interests. Careful management, good business ability and honesty in trade transactions have brought to him the high degree of success which he now enjoys.

Jacob Cook

Jacob Cook is numbered among Ohio's native sons, his birth having occurred in Richland county on the 6th of November, 1826. He was born and reared upon a farm and continued there to reside until twentyone years of age, when he went to Sandusky county and was employed as a farm hand for ten dollars and a half per month. He spent a year there and on the expiration of that period came to Seneca county, where he was employed in the same capacity until 1852, when, attracted by the discovery of gold in California and hoping to acquire a competence more rapidly than was possible to do by engaging in farm work, he started for the Pacific coast by way of the overland route. He traveled by team, riding over eighteen hundred miles upon a mule. It was upon the 15th of March when he started and it was not until the last of July that he reached his destination. The journey was long and wearisome, leading over the hot stretches of sand and other deserts, through the mountain passes and through regions inhabited by Indians, but at length Mr. Cook safely reached California and entered the mining regions on the middle fork of the American river. He afterward went to Hangtown, making that journey in order to get provisions, and he carried forty dollars' worth of flour upon his shoulder back to the camp. In the succeeding spring he went to Frenchtown, where he and a partner purchased a wagon and blacksmith shop, this being located at Shingle Springs. The first day the work which they did brought them in an income of one hundred and' twenty-five dollars. Mr. Cook continued in that business for three years, meeting with excellent success, his services being in constant demand. He then sold his shop and returned home. He had saved three thousand dollars, but this he intrusted to the keeping of friends and lost all except sixty dollars. Having to begin business life anew, he then purchased a team and followed freighting over the mountains, driving eight and sometimes ten teams of mules to Virginia City, Silver City and other mining camps. He was one of the first teamsters to drive eight and ten-mule teams and the trips which he made covered from forty to one hundred and eighty miles. He received excellent prices for his services, hauling one load for which he was g^ven nine hundred and sixty-five dollars. It took him about a month to make a trip, for the roads were often very poor, as little travel had been done in the far west up to that time. For ten years Mr. Cook engaged in teaming. At one time he could have sold his eight-mule team for five thousand dollars, but he refused the oflfer. On the last trip which he made he had two wagons coupled together and carried twenty-five thousand pounds of freight. On selling out his business in that line he purchased a livery stable in Sacramento, California, and continued in that business for one year. He often received from forjy to one hundred and twenty-five dollars per day as rental for his teams, but when a year had elapsed he sold out, clearing about one thousand dollars on his stable.

Wishing to return to Ohio, Mr. Cook disposed of his business interests in the far west and once more took up his abode in Thompson township, Seneca county, where he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land, making his home thereon for three years. He afterward lived for seven years in Flatrock village, and when that period had elapsed he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land where he now resides in Thompson township. To-day his landed possessions comprise one hundred and ten acres, constituting a rich and valuable farm, which he has placed under a high state of cultivation and supplied with all modern equipments and improvements.

guided his life. His history, if written in detail, would form many an exciting as well as interesting story, for he lived in California at the time when there was no effective government organization, when the miners were largely a law unto themselves, and then the desperadoes often took matters into their own hands until the law-abiding citizens were aroused and established the vigilance committees. Mr. Cook knows what it is to endure all the hardships of life in a mining community far from civilization. He has enjoyed, too, the pleasures of a quiet home life in his native state, and in Seneca county' he has many friends who esteem him highly for his sterling worth.

Otho A. Bunn was born upon the farm where he now lives on the 30th of July, 1866, and is a son of John R. Bunn. The family is well known in Seneca county, having been established here at an early day. The father of our subject was united in marriage to Amanda Bower and they became the parents of four children : Samuel, who died in infancy; Ida, the wife of G. H. Park, a farmer of Liberty township; Otho A., whose name introduces this review; and Martha, who died at the age of six. The father was at one time a resident of Wyandot county, Ohio, and on leaving that locality came to Seneca county, settling in Liberty township on land which had been entered from the government by his father, David Bunn. On coming to this county he had secured a claim of one hundred and sixty acres and it has since been a possession of the family, being now the home of our subject. David began the making of the farm and died here. John R. Bunn continued to carry on agricultural pursuits on this farm up to the time of his death, which occurred in 1888, when he was seventy-two years of age. His widow still survives him and is yet living on the old homestead at the age of seventy-three years.

residence of his later years but also on account of childhood associations. He pursued his education in the common schools, mastering the branches of English learning usually taught in such institutions. During the summer months, when school was not in session, he assisted in the work of the farm, and when twenty-two years of age he took charge of the old home place and has since worked it. He now owns ninety-seven acres of the land and is carrying on general farming. Everything about the place is indicative of the supervision of a practical and progressive owner who keeps in touch with modern improvement.

On the 2 1 St of February, 1893, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Bunn and Miss Ellen Stuckey, a daughter of Philip and Mary Ann (Rosenberger) Stuckey. They now have two interesting children, - Russell and Dora. Mr. and Mrs. Bunn are widely and favorably known in the county and enjoy the warm regard of many friends. He is a Republican in his political views, but has never taken an active interest in political work, preferring to give his undivided attention to his business, whereby he is winning a comfortable competence. As many of his warmest friends are numbered among those who have known him from boyhood days it is an indication that his career has been straightforward and honorable.

Eli Kern

Among the native sons of Seneca county is numbered Eli Kern, who for more than sixty years has lived in this portion of the state. He was born upon the farm which is yet his home, in Thompson township, his natal day being August 21, 1839. His parents were Anthony and Sophia (Eberhardt) Kern, who resided in Union county, Pennsylvania. They became the parents of ten children, five sons and five daughters, of whom eight are now living. It was in the year 1830 that Anthony Kern left the Keystone state and emigrated westward to what was then the frontier of Ohio, taking up his abode upon the farm in Seneca county which is now the home of his son Eli. His father, Peter

Kern, had entered land from the government. It was covered with a heavy growth of timber through which the sunlight could hardly penetrate to the ground beneath, but Mr. Kern was a man of resolute spirit and strong determination and at once began the task of clearing the land and transforming it into richly cultivated fields. It was arduous work, but in course of time it was accomplished and his labors were rewarded with rich and abundant harvests which enabled him to enjoy many of the comforts of life. He continued to reside here throughout his remaining days, passing away at the advanced age of seventy-se^^en years. His wife had been called to her final rest four years before.

It was upon the old family homestead here that Eli Kern was born and reared. At the usual age he entered school, walking to a little log school-house in which instruction was given after the primitive manner of the times. Like most farmer boys, his summer months were spent in the fields, where he assisted in the plowing, planting and harvesting, gaining a practical training which enabled him to carry on farm work on his own account successfully at a later day.

In 1876 Mr. Kern was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Bruner, and unto them were bom three children, Elsie, Elva and Elma. The second daughter is the wife of John Drohen. After his marriage Mr. Kern removed to the village of Lodi, where he conducted a sawmill for a year, but finding that farm work was more congenial he returned to the old homestead. After three years he purchased and conducted a threshing machine, making that his business through a long period. When his father died he returned to the old home place, which is now his property. It comprises eighty acres of land and in addition he owns and cultivates another farm of one hundred acres in Thompson township. In addition to the raising of the cereals best adapted to the soil. and climate he is also engaged in stock-raising, and upon his place are high grades of horses, cattle and hogs. In his business undertakings he is industrious, indefatigable and straightforward, and his eflforts have been crowned with a creditable measure of success. His political support is given the Democracy, and his religious faith is that of the Lutheran church, in which he has long held membership. From pioneer days down to the present he has been an honorable and honored citizen of Seneca county, and though his life has been quietly passed it has ever been characterized by the faithful performance of duty and is therefore well worthy of emulation.

George H. Park

George H. Park is a representative of one of the honored pioneer families of Seneca county. When the greater part of this CLunty was in its primitive condition, when its lands were wild and unclaimed, when its streams were unbridged, its forests uncut and when the work of progress and improvement was a thing of the future, thei Park family was founded here by George Park, the grandfather of our subject, and since that time different members of the family have contributed in large measure to the general improvement and substantial advancement which have brought about the present prosperity. The grandfather conducted a hotel in Tiffin - the first one there - and entertained the pioneer settlers who traveled to this region. His son, Peter D. Park, the father of our subject, was the first white male child born in the city of Tiffin, and amid the wild scenes of the frontier he was reared. When he had reached adult age he sought a companion and helpmate for the journey of life and wedded Sarah Heming. They became the parents of three children: George H.; Sarah M., who died in childhood; and Charles L., a resident of Liberty township. The mother died when her eldest child was only eight y^ars of age.

George H. Park and his brother, thus deprived of a mother's care, "vvent to live with Jacob Fleck, by whom they were reared, our subject remaining in his family until he had attained the age of twenty-two years, at which time he was married and went to a home; of his own. At the age of eighteen he had begun working at the carpenter's trade and followed that pursuit for nine years, becoming a proficient builder.

A., Lawrence C. and Minnie M., - all yet at home. In 1886 Mr. Park removed to the farm upon which he now resides and which has since been continuously his home. Here he owns eighty acres and he also has another tract of eighty acres, all in Liberty township. He carries on g-eneral farming and stock-raising and has made most of the improvements upon his place. There are good buildings, well tilled fields, fine grades of stock and all modern accessories and equipments, and the farni is a very attractive and desirable country seat.

While he has led a busy life, devoting the greater part of his attention to the operation of his land, Mr. Park has yet found time to faithfully perform all duties of citizenship. He gives his political allegiance to the Republican party, which he has supported since age gave to him the right of franchise. He never falters in his allegiance to its principles and he keeps well informed on the issues of the day, thus being able to support his position by intelligent argument. He has served as a trustee of Liberty township for six years, and his long continuance in the position indicates his faithfulness to the duties devolving upon him. His religious faith is shown by his membership in, and work in behalf of, the Evangelical church, in which he has served as steward for twenty years. No trust reposed in him has ever been betrayed, and his loyalty to truth and the right is among his strongest characteristics. He has spent his entire life in this county, and the fact that many of his warmest friends are numbered among those who have known him from boyhood is proof that his entire life has been straightforward and honorable.

Isaac Royer

Isaac Royer is a representative of one of the pioneer families of Seneca county, and is now actively identified with agricultural pursuits, being accounted a practical and prc^ressive farmer of Thompson township. He was born in Union county, Pennsylvania, on the ist of January, 1820, and is a son of John and Mary M. (Romig) Royer, in whose f mi\v were twelve children, six sons and six daughters. Of this num- ber eleven reached mature years and those still living are Isaac, of this review ; Kate; the widow of James Fisher, of Michigan ; John, a resident of Sterling, Kansas; Neriah, who lives in St. Louis, Missouri; Lydia, who married John Matz, of Thompson township, who has passed away; Marion, of Thompson township; and Jared, also of this township. Those who have passed away were Sarah, Annie, Samuel, Betsey and Margaret.

Deciding to establish his home in the Buckeye state, John Royer, the father of our subject, severed the business ties which bound him to Pennsylvania and with his family moved to Summit county, Ohio, where he remained for three years. He afterward spent a similar period in Wayne county, and in the year 1828 came with his family to Seneca county, taking up his abode in Thompson township, where he entered four hundred and eighty acres of land, constituting the farm upon which his son Jared now resides. He was the third man from Pennsylvania to settle in Thompson township, the forerunner of many others. The Seneca Indians were still here at the time of the arrival of the family, and the chief of the tribe and his squaw had been sheltered for the night in the cabin home which belonged to the Royer family. The father of our subject erected a log house after the primitive manner of the times. It contained but one room, was covered with a slab roof and had a puncheon floor. When a number of years had passed, however, this pioneer dwelling was replaced by a more commodious and modern home. John Royer gave his time and attention to clearing, developing and improving his land and there carried on farming until his death, which occurred in the eighty-eighth year of his age. It was through his efforts that the Royer ditch in Thompson township was made, thus reclaiming land which now constitutes some of the finest farms in this section of the state. Mr. Royer also aided in building the first log church for the Reformed denomination in Thompson township, and for many years he served as a trustee and elder in his church. He was an important factor in all movements which led to the substantial development and improvement of the county in an* early date, and his name should be placed on the roll of honored pioneers of Seneca county.

Isaac Royer was but an infant when his parents left the Keystone state, and was a lad of only eight summers when they came to Seneca county. Here he was reared upon the old family homestead, remaining there until 1843. During that time he attended the public schools, but his training at farm w ork was not nearly as meager as the mental instruction which he received. He early became familiar with the work of the fields and his practical experience in that direction enabled him to carryon farming on his own account with excellent success.

In the year 1843 Mr. Royer was united in marriage to Miss Mary Ann Stitler, a daughter of Henry Stitler, and unto them were born three children, - Elizabeth, John and Mary, - but all are now deceased, the mother having passed away in 1847. In 1849 Mr. Royer was again married, his second union being with Miss Julia A. Fridley, who was born in Seneca county, New York, in 1826, a daughter of Louis Fridley, who came to Venice township in 1838. Ten children have graced this marriage, of whom four are yet living : Mary, the wife of Edward Fobel, of Thompson township; Amanda R., the wife of Thomas Wolfe, also of this township; Sarah, who married Thomas Higgins and is living in Bellevue, Ohio; and Malinda, the wife of William Sears, of Bellevue. Those who have passed away are Benjamin F., Neriah, John J. and Josephine, twins, and two who died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Royer now have eight grandchildren.

In 1849 this worthy couple removed to the farm upon which they now reside, and Mr. Royer here owns two hundred acres of valuable land, while in another tract he has eighty acres. He cleared most of his land himself and all of the improvements upon the place are an indication of his enterprise and business ability, while the substantial buildings stand as monuments to his labor and resolute purpose. His attention has always been given to agricultural pursuits, and as the years have passed the well tilled fields have returned to him golden harvests, from the sale of which he has realized a handsome income.

During the greater part of his life Mr. Royer has held membership in the Reformed church, to which his wife also belongs, and for many vears he has been a deacon and elder in the church. He contributes liberally to its support and has used his aid and influence for the upbuilding and advancement of the cause of Christianity, while in his life he has exemplified his Christin faith. His political views are in harmony with the principles of the Democracy, but he has never had the time nor desire to seek office. He has the honor of being a resident of Thompson township the longest of all, seventy-four years having passed since he arrived here. Great changes has he witnessed through this period. He has seen the passing of the Indians and has watched the forest give way to rich and fertile fields, while the work of progress and improvement has been carried on in all lines which lead to business prosperity and substantial development. He has taken great pride in what has been accomplished in the county and has ever borne his part in the work of improvement. He relates many interesting incidents of these pioneer times, when people lived in log cabins and followed a path through the forest in order to visit neighbors. But true hospitality existed in those days and many pleasant hours were spent in the homes of neighbors, who perchance lived many miles away. There was much hard work to be done in clearing and improving farms, but as the years passed the labors were requited by abundant returns, and like others Mr. Royer has secured a comfortable competence through his enterprising efforts.

David Holmes

It is but in justice due that in this volume should be accorded a tribute to the memory of one who was identified with the civic and industrial life of Seneca county in so prominent a way as was Mr. Holmes, whose abilities and unswerving integrity in all the relations of life gained to him unlimited esteem from all with w^hom he came in contact. Superadded to this, the memoir is the more consistent from the fact that he was a native son of the county and here passed his entire life, attaining marked success and becoming one of the representative and influential men of this section of the state.

David Holmes was born on a farm in Venice township, Seneca county, Ohio, on the I2th of May, 1843, and here his death occurred on the 7th of February, 1898. His parents, John and Sabina (Hillis) Holmes, had a family of eight children, of whom four survive at the present time, namely: Amos, who is a resident of Michigan; Rebecca, the wife of Lafajxtte Palmeter, is a resident of the state of Missouri; Sarah, the wife of Benjamin Slough, of Michigan; and John, who resides in Attica. The subject of this memoir was reared on the old homestead farm and received a common-school education, and as a young man served an apprenticeship at the blacksmith trade, to which he devoted his attention for a time, though agricultural pursuits constituted his vocation during by far the greater part of his independent business career, and through the medium of the same he achieved a high degree of prosperity. Mr. Holmes became the owner of two hundred and fifty acres of land in Huron county, Ohio, and also acquired the controlling interest in the old parental homestead of two hundred and twenty-six acres, the latter having been divided among the heirs subsequently to his death. Mr. Holmes was a man of a high order of mentality, was especially progressive and discriminating in the management of his business affairs and was one who had a deep and abiding interest in all that made for the general prosperity and advancement of the community in which he lived and in which he was honored by all who knew him. In his political proclivities he was found stanchly arrayed in support of the principles and policies* of the Democratic party, and for nine years he was incumbent of the responsible office of trustee of Venice township, and he also gave the benefit of his influence and marked executive ability in promoting educational interests in the county, having been for a number of years a member of the board of school directors of his district. Mr. Holmes was one of those prominently concerned in the grange movement, and he gave his best efforts in the cause of this fraternal organization, through which he felt that much could be accomplished for the intellectual and material advancement of the agricultural community. He was called upon to serve as master of Venice Grange,

Centennial Biographical History, 529

On the 2 1 St of January, 1893, was solemnized the marriage of Mr, Holmes to Mrs. Isabella (Philhower) Sheely, the widow of Andrew Sheely. She was born in the state of New Jersey, as was also her father, Elias Philhower, who became a resident of Seneca county, Ohio, in the early '70s, and here passed the remainder of his life. Of the three children of Mrs. Holmes' first marriage two survive, namely: Mary, who is the wife of Jacob Heintz, of Crawford county; and Francis A., a successful agriculturist of Seneca county. Mr. and Mrs. Holmes became the parents of three children, - Esther Sabina, Sarah Almeda and Oliver Wendall. Since her husband's death Mrs. Holmes has continued to reside on the homestead, which is one of the best improved and most attractive in this section of the county, and she has show^n marked judgment and executive ability in the management of the farm and other business interests, and as a woman of gracious presence and true refinement she has gained a wide circle of friends in the community, and her home is a center of cordial hospitality.

Isaac Feasel

It is an indication of the opportunities and advantages which Seneca county affords to her citizens that so many of her native sons still reside within her borders having no inclination to seek homes elsewhere. A representative of this class is Isaac Feasel, who is a resident of Liberty township and who was born in this township on the 26th of August, 1836, his parents being George and Jane (Anderson) Feasel, the former a native of Virginia. Unto this worthy couple were born eleven children, namely: Mary A., Jacob, John and Margaret, who have passed away; Elizabeth, now residing in Henry county; Lucinda, deceased; Isaac, our subject; Andrew, who lives in Missouri; George, who has also passed away ; Sarah, the wife of John Armstrong, a resident of

Illinois ; and Rebecca, the widow of John Lynch. The family has long been identified with Seneca county and its representatives have ever borne their part in the work of public advancement and improvement.

It was in 182 1 that George Feasel, who was then twenty years of age, arrived in Seneca county, making the journey by team, moving a family to this place. He then returned to Franklin county, Ohio, where he had previously located, making his home there almost before Columbus w^s established, the city then' being but a hamlet containing a fe^v pioneer homes. Mr. Feasel, however, was pleased with the appearance and prospects of Seneca county and in 1829, accompanied by his wife and four children, he returned to this locality and entered from the government a tract of land of one hundred and sixty acres in Liberty township. There in the midst of the forest he erected a log cabin containing but one room and in primitive pioneer style the family began life in this portion of the state. Indolence and idleness were utterly foreign to his nature and his resolution and energy enabled him to carry on the work of improving his land until the richly cultivated fields returned to him golden harvests. He continued his farm operations throughout his active business career and lived upon the old homestead until his death, which occurred in 1886." Tlis wife passed away at the age of eighty-four years. They were members of the United Brethren church and were people of the highest respectability. The father aided in laying out roads, in organizing schools and in promoting improvement in many lines of progress. Associated with other pioneers he made possible the present prosperity and progress of the county, and well does he deserve mention in a history of the leading and representative men of Seneca county from early days down to the present.

It was upon the old family homestead that Isaac Feasel first opened his eyes to the light of day, and in Liberty township he was reared, early becoming familiar with the arduous tasks of developing a new farm in the midst of the forest. Trees had to be cut and the land prepared for cultivation before a return could be gained for labor. In company wdth his brother Jdhn he would take jobs of clearing new land, clearing about forty acres each season and receiving three to five dollars per acre for the heaviest timber, and so continued for about seven years, making several hundred acres that he assisted in clearing. He became very expert in the use of the ax.

He was the first man in the township to begin the use of tile in draining his land, and was yet three thousand five hundred dollars in debt when he bought his first tile, against the prediction of miny friends, including his wife, that it would not pay. He persisted and in three years had paid his debts, not owing a dollar. The crops produced were nearly doubled and land that it was said' would not yield enough for his bread has never failed to produce excellent crops.

Mr. Feasel worked with his father until twenty-seven years of age, when he miade preparation for a home of his own by his marriage to Catherine Good. Unto them have been born eight children: Orlando, a resident of Liberty township; Rosetta, at home; Jacob and Delia, twins, the latter the wife of Franklin Hall; Sarah J., the wife of Charles Lightner; Lydia, who married J. F. Early; and John, who died in infancy.

After his marriage Mr. Feasel purchased eighty acres of wild land and his first home was also a pioneer log cabin, containing but one room. After two years he removed to the farm upon which he now resides and which has been his home for thirty-five years. It was then but partially improved, but with characteristic energy he began its further development and soon well tilled fields returned to him good harvests. At the time of the Civil war he put aside all personal consideration and on the 27th of September, 1864, enlisted in the First Ohio Heavy Artillery, joining his regiment at Qeveland, Tennessee. He then served until the close of the war and was a loyal defender of the Union. For five months he was in the hospital at Knoxville,* but ultimately recovered his health. In his political views Mr. Feasel is independent, supporting the man whom he thinks best qualified for office, regardless of party affiliations. He has never been an aspirant for office, as his farming interests have claimed his entire attention. He now o\vns one hundred and sixty-five acres of good land, and no better improvements can be found in the township than are upon his place. He has an at- tractive residence, substantial bams and outbuildings and the latest improved machinery. There are over fifteen miles of tiling on his farm and he successfully engages in the cultivation of the crops best adapted to this climate and in stock-raising, both branches of his business returning to him a good income. His business methods have ever been commendable and' have gained to him the high regard of all with whom he has been associated.

John Pankhurst

The life history of him whose name heads this sketch is closely identified with the history of Seneca county, which has been his homt throughout his entire life, and since attaining to years of maturity he has been closely allied with its interests and upbuilding. His life has been one of untiring activity and has been' crowned with a high and well merited degree of success.

Mr. Pankhurst was bom in Jackson township, Seneca county, on the 25th of November, 1852, a son of Jeremiah and Lucy A. (Mc- Doughel) Pankhturst. The father was bom in the far-off country of England, in 1809, and when nineteen years of age he crossed the Atlantic to the new world, landing in this country with but twenty-five cents in his pocket, a stranger in a strange land, and this amount he paid to a girl to direct him to a place where he could obtain employment. In an early day he took up his abode in Seneca county, Ohio, settling in Loudon township, but later came to Jackson township, and became the owner of six hundred acres of land. He was a Republican in his political views and religiously was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. and Mrs. Pankhurst became the parents of thirteen children, only seven of whom are now living, namely: Daniel who makes his home in Sandusky coimty, Ohio; Peter, of Fostoria: John, the subject of this review ; Amanda, the wife of Robert Bigham. of Jackson township ; Wesley, of Fostoria ; and Celinda E. and Lucinda A., twins, the former the wife of James R. Chilcote, of Jackson township.

John Pankhurst, of this review, grew tx> years of maturity on his parents' homestead farm, and the educational advantages which he acquired in his youth were those afforded by the common schools of his neighborhood. After his marriage he located on one hundred and twenty acres of land in Jackson township, this tract having been inherited by his wife from her father, and at that time it was covered with timber. Mr. Pankhurst at once began the arduous task of clearing the land, living in a log cabin which stood thereon. Four years later, however, he sold the property and purchased his present home place, which consists of one hundred and forty acres of rich and productive land, and there he is extensively engaged in general farming. By persistent energy and the display of considerable foresight he has succeeded in his chosen line of endeavor, and he is now the owner of one of the most valuable and highly cultivated homesteads in the county.

November 16, 1871, when but nineteen years of age, Mr. Pankhurst was united in marriage to Miss Marietta Trumbo, a daughter of Enoch Trumbo, an account of whose life will be found in the history of Phiny Trumbo in this volume. Three children have been bom unto this union, but only two are now living, - Charles T., who is attending the Western Reserve Medical College, of Qeveland, Ohio, and' Irvin, at home. The eldest, a daughter, died in infancy. The Republican party receives Mr.'Pankhurst's hearty support and co-operation, and for one term he served as the trustee of his township. At the present time he is serving as a member of the school board. In his social relations he is a member of Fostoria Lodge, No. 86, K. of P., and also of the Uniformed Rank, No. 59. He is of a social disposition, courteous and genial in manner, and througihout the county in which his entire life has been passed he has a host of warm friends.

George Whitman

An enterprising and progressive farmer and honored citizen of Venice township is George Whitman, who has spent his entire life in the Buckeye state, his birth occurring in Attica, on the nth. of Decem- ber, 1857. His parents were Michael and Barbara (Vogelsang) WTiitman, and they had seven children, three of whom now survive : Fannie, the wife of George Jordan, of Attica; Margaret, the wife of William Conrad, also of that city; and George, the subject of this review. The father was born in Germany, but when a young man he left his home across the sea and came to America. He was a wagon-maker by trade, and after his arrival in this country he located in Mansfield, Ohio, where he was married and soon afterward took up his abode in Attica, there opening a wagon-mBking shop. At the outbreak of the Civil war he put aside all personal considerations and nobly offered his ser\'ices to his adopted country. At the battle of Gettysburg he received a mortal wound, and he died in a hospital at Evansville, Indiana. After his death the mother married Andrew Myers, by whom she had one child, Anna B., the widow of John Cunningham. Mr. Myers was also a wagonmaker by trade, and was working for Mr. Whitman at the time of the latter's enlistment for the war, and conducted the shop during his absence.

George Whitman, the immediate subject of this review, was but a little lad of ten years when he was obliged to begin the active dutjies of life on his own account, and for a time thereafter he worked for various farmers in Seneca county, his educational advantages having been thus necessarily very limited. In 1877 he purchased an outfit and engaged in the huckstering business, thus continuing through the four succeeding years, and in 1881 he became an employe in the saloon of Adolph Hassler, where he remained for three years. Later for four years he conducted a place of his own, when the building and contents were destroyed by fire, and he then became the owner of a farm in Reed township, continuing as a tiller of the soil for the following three years. On the expiration of that period, however, he left the quiet duties of the farm and once more returned to Attica, where he erected a brick block and for seven years was the proprietor of a saloon. In the spring of 1899 ^^ purchased the farm which he now owns, known as the George Ringle farm, and consisting of one hundred and ninety acres in the northeast corner of Venice township, where he has ever since made his home. He has placed his land under an excellent state of cultivation, and his fields annually return to their owner abundant harvests.

The marriage of Mr. Whitman was celebrated on the 23d of December, 1884, when Miss Anna Songer became his wife. She is a native daughter of the Buckeye state, her birth occurring in Bucyrus, Crawford county. Her father, John Songer, is one of the well known farmers of Venice township, and he now makes his honue in Attica. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Whitman have been born three children: Virda M., Alvin Ray and Glen L., all attending school. Mr. Whitman gives stanch support to the Democracy, and while a resident of Attica he served for one term as a member of the city council. He was reared in the faith of the German Reformed church and still holds membership relations with that denomination.

Elijah B. Ferree

Elijah B. Ferree, who is a representative of the farming interests of Scipio township, is numbered among the citizens that Maryland has furnished to the Buckeye state. He was born in Washington county, Maryland, January 31, 1840, and is a son of Cyrus and Elizabeth (Wydow) Ferree, in which family were but two children, the younger being Margaret, who married Benjamin Leckrone and died in 1898. Leaving his native state, the father emigrated westward and took up his abode in Scipio township, Seneca county, Ohio, purchasing ninety-one acres of land, from which he developed the farm upon which our subject now resides. This was but partially cleared and upon it he made his home until four years prior to his death, which occurred in 1894, when he was in his seventy-ninth year.

-The subject of this review was a little lad of only eight summers when the family came to Ohio. He worked in the fields and meadows, assisting his father in the farm labors, and through the winter seasons he attended school, acquiring a good English education to fit him for the practical duties of life. He was married March 4, 1866, to Elizabeth Smith, a native of Scipio township and a daughter of Abraham and Nancy (Blakely) Smith, - the former a native of Virginia, while the latter was born in the Emerald Isle. Mr. Smith became one of the pioneer settlers of Scipio township, taking up his abode upon a tract of land which had been entered from the government by his father. He had one hundred and sixty acres all covered with heavy timber, and in the midst of the forest he built a little log cabin and began clearing away the trees which still stood in their primeval strength. As acre after acre was cleared he plowed and planted it and in the course of time good harvests rewarded his efforts. His death occurred February 12, 1883, when he was seventy-five years of age, and his wife passed away in 1867. They were members of the Baptist church and were people of sterling worth who enjoyed the high regard of all who knew them. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Ferree has been blessed with two children, - Curtis H. and Martin W., - both of whom are now married and reside on and manage the home farm. Curtis H. married Frances A. Williams and has three children, - Roy, Ruth and Sarah. Martin W. married Lola Egbert.

After his marriage Mr. Ferree removed to Clinton township, where he lived for twenty-two years, and then returned to the old homestead, where he now owns one hundred and eighty acres of land, together with sixty-five acres in Clinton township, which adjoins the homestead. He carries on general farming, his life being quietly passed, yet it is such a career that always commands respect, for he is honorable in business and trustworthy in all lifers relations.

John M. Naylor

Honored and respected by all, there is no man in Tiffin who occupies a more enviable position than John M. Naylor in commercial and financial circles, not alone on account of the brilliant success he has achieved but also on account of the honorable, straightforward business policy he has ever followed. He possesses untiring energy, is quick of perception, forms his plans readily and is determined in their execution^ and his close application to business and excellent management have brought to him the high degree of prosperity which is to-day his. la early manhood he entered upon his business career without capital, and,, placing his dependence solely upoil the sterling qualities of diligence, perseverance and honesty, he has worked his way steadily upward and now occupies a commanding position in the business circles of this city. Mr. Naylor was born in Wooster, Ohio, December 9, 1822, a son of James and Eleanor (Musgrove) Naylor, both of whomi were natives of Pennsylvania, the former born in Beaver and the latter in Dauphin, county. The father was a carpenter by trade and was engaged in housebuilding in Wooster, Ohio, for many years. During his boyhood John M. Naylor attended the public schools and before he had left his 'teens, he engaged in teaching. In this way he earned the money with which to pay his tuition in Granville College, where he remained as a student for some time. His aim was to obtain a thorough preliminary education and then study law, but at the age of twenty he was induced to accept a clerkship in a hardware store owned by the firm of Jacobs & Kouke,. at Wooster. For four years he remained in that service and then entered into partnership with Harvey Howard. They came to Tiffin and oi>ened a hardware store under the fimii name of Howard & Naylor, and under that style conducted the business for four years, when Mr. Naylor purchased his partner's interest, conducting the enterprise successfull3r for a nmnber of years, when he sold his store. Under his management^ however, it grew to l>e the largest mercantile establishment in the town and was excelled by few, if any, in the northern part of the state. Mr. Naylor made a careful study of the wishes of the people and made an earnest effort to please, sincerely wishing to give good satisfaction as well as gain success. His honorable methods and enterprise brought him a continually increasing patronage and w^hen he was enabled to command an excellent income he made judicious and extensive investmients tivity in Tiffin. He was one of the founders of the National Exchange Bank, now the Tiffin National Bank, of which he has always been a director and large stockholder. He finally became its president and is now at the head of the institution, which owes not a little of its success to his excellent ability and sound judgment.

On the nth of December, 1849, Mr. Nay lor was united in marriage to Miss Cornelia T. Pittinger, a daughter of Judge Benjamin Pittinger, and unto them were born two children, but both are now deceased. Cora, bom in 1851, died in 1853, and Frank, who was bom in 1854, died in 1883, while on a visit to Florida. Mr. and Mrs. Naylor occupy one of the finest brick residences in the city, his success in former years enabling him to sec'jre for them all the comforts and many of the luxuries that go to make life worth the living. He is now seventy-nine years of age, but he is still very active and could pass for a man many years younger. Instead of retiring altogether from business life he still gives his attention to banking and to the control of his real-estate investments, being still a valued factor in financial circles in Tiffin. Of a studious nature, he has devoted much attention to the study of standard works and has thus gained valuable and comprehensive information, such as is seldom possessed except by a college graduate. Tiffin has found in him a warm and helpful friend, ever ready to promote her wd; fare along the lines of substantial progress and improvement. For fiftyfour years he has been identified wath her business and social interests, and during this time has proven to be a man of excellent executive ability with marked perceptive and reasoning faculties. His judgment and prompt decisions are seldom at fault and throughout the years his course has been characterized by a conscientious desire to be just and fair hi his treatment of all. In politics he has ever been a stalwart Republican, but the honors and emoluments of office have had no attraction for him. During the Civil war he strongly endorsed the presidential ix)licy and was a warm supporter of the Union. He holds membership in the Methixlist Episct)i>al church and contributes most liberally to its supix>rt. When the new brick house of worship was erected he gave most liberally to the work and aided in pushing forward the enterprise in other ways. He is a man of even temperament, calm and self-poised, of refined character, in whom nature and culture have vied in making an hon' ored and interesting gentleman. His erect form and clear-cut features give little suggestion of the fact that he had almost completed eight decades since starting upon life's journey. Nature deals kindly with the man who abuses not her laws, and though Mr. Naylor's business cares have been extensive, age rests lightly upon- him.

Lester Sutton

Thraugh the years of his manhood Attica has numbered Lester Sutton amiong its most prominent and' progressive citizens. He may well be termed one of the founders of the city, for he has been the promoter of many of its leading business enterprises, and the growth and development of the city depend upon its commercial and industrial activity. His connection with any undertaking insures a prosperous outcome of the same, for it is in his nature to carry forward to successful completion whatever movement he is associated with. He has earned for himself an enviable reputation as a careful man of business, and in his dealings is known for his prompt and honorable methods, which have won for him the deserved and unbounded confidence of his fellow men.

Mr. Sutton was born in Steuben county, New York, in the town of Hornellsville, July 13, 1836, his parents being John and Christina (True) Sutton. The father was born in Pennsylvania, April 2, 1800, and when a young man removed to Steuben county. New York. He had previously married* a Miss Hendershot and to them were bom six children, of wihbm three are living: Isaac, who resided until recently near Owosso, Michigan, and died May 19, 1902 ; William, also a resident of Michigan; and Mjargaret, the wife of Thomas Doorley, of Steuben county. New York. In New York the father took up his abode on a farm in Steuben county, and in September, 1852, he removed to

Seneca county, settling in Reed township, where he remained for se\'- eral years. On selling that property he purchased a farm in Venice township, upon which he maintained his residence until a short time prior to his death, his last days 1>eing 'spent in Attica, where he died in 1878. His wife passed away in 1890. They had six children, of whom three are living: Lester; Susan, the wife of John H. Carpenter, of Tiffin; and Alva, who is with his brother in the bank. Mr. Sutton was again married, March 18, 1902, to Mrs. Rebecca Smith, who is a daughter of Jeremiah and Arvilla (Olds) Carpenter, both deceased. She was born in Venice township and was married at nineteen to James M. Titus, and at twenty-one was a widow, and at length became the wife of Harvey Smith, who died about three years later. She has resided in Attica for years. She has two daughters: Myrtle Titus, the wife of W. S. Force; and Margaret Smith, the wife of J. W. Price.

In early life John Sutton was an ardent Whig and became a stanch Abolitionist. When the latter party ceased to have an existence he joined the ranks of the new Republican party, with which he continued to affiliate until his death. He held membership in the Metliod'st Protestant chiu-ch.

Under the parental rcx>f Lester Sutton spent his early boyhood days and after attending the common schools was graduated at the academy of Republic, Ohio, at the early age of eighteen years. He then began teaching and for eight years successfully followed that profession, five terms being in one district. In 1862 he took up the study of law under General Leander Stem, of Tiffin, remaining in his office until the death of his preceptor in the battle of Stone river. The office was then closed and Mr. Sutton resumed teaching, but continued his law reading until 1866, when he was admitted to the bar. A short time previously he had rempved to Attica and here he opened an office, continuing in active practice until the present, during which time he has gained a large and distinctively representative clientage. In the year 1882 he established a private bank, known as the Banking House of Lester Sutton, which is the only institution of the kind in the town. From the beginning it has been attended with a high degree of success and is of great value to the citizens as well as a source of income to the owner. For forty-five years Mr. Sutton has been in demand over a wide area as an auctioneer, and even in the last years, when he was occupied with other business, his services have been sought throughout the county. He has also been chosen as administrator of estates, his handling of such always being to the universal satisfaction of the heirs, the courts and of all concerned. Probably no man in the county has done more business in this particular line than he.

On the 20th of March, 1859, Mr. Sutton was married to Miss Emeline Rundell, a native of Seneca county, Ohio, and a daughter of William and Miranda Rundell, who were early settlers of this locality, coming to the Buckeye state from New York. Five children were born unto our subject and his wife, of whom four are yet living: Leonard L., a fire insurance and real-estate agent of Attica, Ohio; Laura, the wife of Ross W. Ayres, a business man of Chicago, Illinois; Charles C, in his father's bank; and Luella, who married E. S. Bernard, a deputy postmaster of Tiffin, Ohio. On the 7th of February, 1901, the wife and mother was called to her final rest, her loss being mourned not only in her own home but also throughout a large circle of friends.

Mr. Sutton has long been recognized as one of the most prominent, influential and active citizens of Attica. He has been solicitor for the town almost since his arrival here, and has been connected with every public interest or measure for the welfare and promotion of the place. In politics he is a stanch Republican, but has never sought or desired office. He belongs to Attica Lodge, No. 367, F. & A. M., and is also the only surviving charter member living in the town. He has held all of its offices and for thirteen consecutive years was its honored master. He has also taken the degrees of the Scottish rite up to and including the thirty-second, and has passed all of the chairs in Venice Lodge, No. 197, I. O. O. F. He is a member of the Baptist church and is deeply interested in everything pertaining to the material, social, intellectual and moral welfare of his town. He has ever discharged his duties with marked ability and fairness, for he is a most loyal, publicspirited citizen. As a business man he has been conspicuous among his associates, not only for his success, but for his probity, fairness and honorable methods. In everything he has been eminently practical, and this has been manifest not only in his business undertakings, but also in social and private life.

Samuel R Kaufman

In connection with the mercantile interests of Attica Mr. Kaufman has become well and favorably known, and by his own unaided efforts he has risen to his present high position in the business world. His birth occurred in Crawford county, Ohio, March 7, 1864, his parents being Daniel and Elizabeth (Kaufman) Kaufman. The father was born in Lebanon county, Pennsylvania, in 1816, and the mother's birth also occurred in the Keystone state, in 1825, and both were of Dutch descent. The paternal grandfather of our subject was a merchant in that state, but meeting with financial reverses there he removed with his family to the eastern part of Ohio, his son Daniel being then a small boy. When twenty-five years of age the latter camfe to Crawford county^ purchasing eighty acres of land in Cranberry township, after which he returned to his old' home and was married. He immediately brought his bride to his new Ohio home, erected a log cabin twelve by twelve feet in the dense woods, and after paying the first installment oti the place he had but ten dollars left. As time passed by he succeeded in clearing his land, and there made his home until within six years of his death, when he purchased property in and removed to Tiro, there passing away in death in 1891. He gave his political support to the Republican party and was a member of the Evangelical Lutheran church. His widow is still living, and now makes her homJe with her son Amos in Tiro. This worthy couple became the parents of ten children, seven of whom are now living, namely: Mary, the wife of Peter Lash, of Crawford county ; Sarah, the wife of Frank Lash, of Richland county; Katie, the wife of Jacob Fike, of Los Angeles county, California; Nora, the wife of J. E. Brown, also of that county; EmanueU

The last mentioned remained under the parental roof until his nineteenth year, during which time he pursued his education in the district schools of his neighborhood. In 1882 he entered the grocery store of George H. Hamilton, of Attica, where he was employed as a salesman ior two and a half years, on the expiration of which period he entered the jewelry store of T. K. Crane, with the agreement that he was to purchase the stock of goods after serving a given period. Accordingly, about eight months later Mr. Crane left the store, our subject then becoming its sole owner and manager. After two years had passed by he was enabled to purchase the stock of another jeweler of the town, and on the expiration of a similar period' he became the owner of the business property, which he occupied for the following four years. Subsequently he built his present substantial brick building and about ten years ago he began adding to his jewelry stock until in addition thereto he now carries queensware, notions, stationery, books and many other articles. In the line of watches, especially, he not only enjoys a large retail trade but does quite a lucrative jobbing trade, selling to jewelers in various Ohio towns. In all his business relations he has been thoroughly upright and conscientious, and has won the respect and esteem of those with whom he has had business or social intercourse.

The marriage of Mr. Kaufman was celebrated on the 30th of May, 1890, when Miss Icedore Huffman became his wife. She is a native daughter of Attica, and prior to her marriage she w^s a successful and popular teacher in its schools for a number of years. She is a daughter of Josiah and' Sarah L. Huffman, and the formier, who was one of the prominent farmers of Venice township, is now deceased. Unto our subject and wife have been bom two children, - Morton L., born September 25, 1893, and Paul H., bom June 9, 1900. Mr. Kaufman gives his political support to the Republican party, and for two years he was a member of the city council, serving in that position at the time of the building of the water works. Socially he was formerly a member of the Knights of Pythias fraternity in Attica, but has since withdrawn his menibership therefrom. He is a member of Attica Lodge, No. 367, F. & A. M., of Bellevue Chapter, No. 113, R. A. M., in which he was initiated on the 3d of May, 1898. He became a member of Bellevue Council, No. 82, April 5, 1900, and on the 23d of May of that year was made a member of De Molai Commandery, No. 9, of Tiffin. He is also a member of Attica Lodge, No. 317, J. O. U. A. M., and Sappho Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star. Both he and his wife are members of the ilethodist Episcopal church.

The unostentatious routine of private life, although of vast importance to the welfare of the community, has not figured to any great extent in history. But the names of men who have disinguished themselves by the possession of those qualities which mainly contribute to the success of private life and to the public stability, and w'ho have enjoyed the respect and confidence of those around them, should not be permitted to perish. Their examples are most valuable and their lives well worthy of consideration. Such are the thoughts that involuntarily come to mind when we take under review the career of such an honored pioneer as the gentleman whose name initiates this paragraph. He is a representative of one of the old families of Seneca county, and his mind links the early formative epoch with that of latter-day progress and magnificent prosperity. Such are the men partiailarly worthy of mention in a work of this nature.

Peter Dewald, who has passed practically his entire life in Seneca county, comes of stanch old German lineage and is himself a native of the fatherland, having been born in the kingdom of Bavaria, in the year 1827, the son of Jolm and Elizabeth (Rusick) Dewald, two of whose ten children are living at the present time, namely : Peter, the subject of this sketch, and Philip, who is elsewhere mentioned in this work. Maria, who became the wife of Jacob Starber, of Tiffin, died' May i, 1902.

In the early '309 John Dewald emigrated from Germany to America and took up his residence in Seneca county, Ohio, locating on what were designated as the "Swale lands" north of the present village of Bascom, in Hopewell township. On account of the superabundance of water in that locality at the time, he removed to a point one mile south of the village mentioned, and there reclaimed a farm and continued to reside until his death, in the year 1850. The subject of this sketch was reared on the old homestead farm and his educational privileges were such as could be supplied in the primitive log schoolhouse of the period. In 1859 he was united in marriage to Miss Barbara Smith, who was born in Buffalo, New York, being the daughter of Jacob Smith, who located in Seneca county in the year 1833, settling in Loudon township. In his youth our subject learned the carpenter's trade, and for seven years after his marriage he continued to devote his attention to the same, his services being in constant requisition during the early days. In 1866 he erected a residence on his present farm, which is most eligibly located in Loudon township and which he purchased prior to his marriage. Upon the completion of this dwellinghouse he took up his residence on the farm, and the same has ever since been his home and the scene of his well directed and successful efforts. He now has a landed estate of tw^o hundred and fifty acres, the same being in three farms and all are in this township.

He has been indefatigable in his industry, has ever been animated by the highest principles and has been a valuable factor in the development and progress of the county, where he has so ordered his life as to gain and retain the unequivocal confidence and high regard of all with whom he has come in contact. He has made the best improvements on his estate, and it is interesting, in view of its present attractions and well tilled fields, to revert to the fact that he personally reclaimed from the virgin forests the greater portion of his home farm, which is one of the best in this section of the county. He has ever shown himself concerned in the enterprises and undertakings w^hich conserve the general welfare, and has given his allegiance to the Republican party from the time of its organization, while his religious faith is that of the Zion

Reformed church, of which he and his devoted wife have long been zealous and consistent members. Of their ten children all but one are living and all are well established in life and are numbered among the sterling and honored people of their home county, where all still reside, the following brief record being given concerning them: Mary is the wife of John Rainey, of Loudon township; Jacob is a farmer of Hopewell township; Margaret, unmarried, resides in Tiffin; Susan is the wife of John Coppes, of Loudon township; William is a farmer of Hopewell township; Peter remains at the parental homestead; Alice died in her twentieth year ; and Delia, Nora and Leota remain at the home of their honored parents.

Henry W. Matthews

The name of Henry W. Matthews is inscribed on the roll of Seneca county's honored and valued citizens, and the part which he has performed in the development of the county well entitles him to prominent mention in this volume. Almost entirely through his efforts the town of Bascom - so named in honor of a Mr. Bascom who was a resident here - was established, in which he has long made his home, laboring for its promotion and welfare.

Mr. Matthews is a native son of the Buckeye state, his birth having occurred near Lexington, Richland county, on the 23d of September, 1 84 1, a son of Jeremiah and Mary (Creeger) Matthews. About 1852 or 1853 the father carrte with his family to Seneca county, a location being made in Hopewell township, where he purchased a farm, and there his death occurred, at the age of sixty-five years. The mother is still living with her son George, at Niles, Michigan, being remarkably well presented for a woman of eighty-five. Our subject is the eldest of his four living children, the others being Augustus, who is engaged in the lumber business in Michigan ; Jeremiah, engaged in the same vocation in South Bend, Indiana; and George, who is engaged in the manufacture of bicycles in Niles, Michigan.

The educational privileges which Henry W. Matthews was permitted to enjoy in his youth were those afforded' by the common schools of his neighborhood, and on a farm in the county of his nativity he was early inured to the labors of the field and meadow. At the age of twentytwo years he began without means the active duties of life on his own account, and after following agricultural pursuits for a time he engaged in the lumber and milling business on Wolf creek, erecting a sawmill by borrowing three hundred and fifty dollars to make a first payment of four hundred' dollars. In the three years following he had cleared off that debt and had about fifteen hundred dollars to use in erecting the second mill at that point. This he conducted for three years and then erected the present mill at Bascom. To his skill and ability is due the erection of the first circular-saw mill in this section of the country,, which was located on the present site of the boat factory of his son, S. J. Matthews, and this he conducted as a saw and planing mill until 1895. I" 1885, in company with his* brother, J. H. Matthews, he extended his milling business into Tennessee, where at one time they owned six sawmills, while in addition thereto they also became the owners of eighteen hundred acres of timber land in that commonwealth, a part of which they have cleared and converted into a valuable farm of seven hundred acres.

Throughout the period of his connection with the interests of Seneca county Mr. Matthews has exerted a wide and helpful interest in its affairs, and the prosperity which the thriving little city of Bascom now enjoys is due in a large measure to his untiring energy and ability. He was instrumental in securing the right of way for the strieet railroad from Tiffin to Fostoria, and is now a stockholder and director of the company. He is an active worker in the ranks of the Republican party, and on its ticket he was twice elected to the position of trustee of his township and three times as treasurer. He has served about thirty years on the township board of education, being responsible for the first brick school-house in Bascomi, more than thirty years ago, as well as for the present new three-room building: - one of the best in the county - which was demanded by the growth of the village, though secured

-against strenuous opposition. The Bascom Sand Ridge Cemetery Association was also organized by him. To a considerable extent he has been a builder, especially in the village of Bascom, where he still owns a dozen or more residences; and besides he is also the proprietor of a -choice farm a mile and a half northwest of the village.

His religious tendencies connect him with the United Brethren <:hurch, in which he has long served as a trustee. He has given his aia in many generous ways to the perpetuation of those forces which tonserve the best interests of the community, and the course that he has followed in political, business and social circles commends him to the high esteem of all.

He was married on the 26th of May, 1868, in Frederick county, Maryland, to Miss Linnie C. Smith, of that county. They have but one child, named Scott J., of whom separate mention is made in this volume.

George C. Lake

As one of the able and progressive newspaper publishers of Seneca county and as representative of two of its honored pioneer families, it is with distinctive gratification that we here accord a review of the career of Mr. Lake, editor and publisher of the Attica Weekly Hub, a vigorous and ably conducted paper and one w^iich is a valued exponent of local interests.

George Clifford Lake was born in Venice township, this county, on the 2d of April, 1866, being the son of Wilson D. and Mary L. (Cain) Lake, who became the parents of three children, of whom two survive, namely: Charlotte A., the wife of J. L. Williams, of Reed township, this county; and George C, the immediate subject of this sketch. That the name borne by Mr. Lake has been long identified with the annals of this county is evident when w^e revert to the fact that his father was likewise born in Venice township, in the year 1825, ^nd that he here passed his entire life, - having been a resident consecutively of Venice township w ith the exception of three years passed in Reed town- ship. He was a son of David L. and Ruth (Lester) Lake, both of whom were bom in Geneva, New York, whence they came to Seneca county, Ohio, directly after their marriage. The latter was a sister of Marvin Lester, who achieved distinction as a scout and Indian fighter and whose name isi familiar in the history of this section of the Union. Upon arriving in the wilds of Seneca county the grandparents of our subject took up a quarter section of government land, two miles west of the present town of Attica, and there they erected their primitive Jog domicile, with puncheon floor and other rudimentary equipments. David L. Lake set to himself the task of clearing and improving his frontier farm and he reclaimed the greater portion. When well advanced in years he and his wife removed to Barry county, Michigan,, locating near Hastings, where they passed the residue of their lives. The father of our subject was reared on- the old homestead in Venice township, early beginning to contribute to the arduous work of reclamation and cultivation, and securing only such educational advantages aswere afforded \n the subscription or district schools precariously maintained by the isolated settlers of the pioneer locality. After his marriage he settled on what is now known as the Samuel Nesbitt farm, two miles southeast of Attica. Here he purchased eighty acres and thereafter devoted his attention to the improving and cultivation of the place» where he maintained his home until April, 1867, when his residence was destroyed by fire, and he then disposed of the farm! and removea to Attica, where he was for some time employed as an engineer in the local planing mill and blind and sash factory. Incidental to the exciten;ent attending the destructicn of his home by fire he suffered a stroke of paralysis, and was ever afterward crippled from the effects. He died on the 20th of March, 1875, ^"^ he coinmanded unequivocal confidence and esteem in the community, being a man of absolute rectitude and one whose life had been one of consecutive application, even in the face of serious physical infirmities. He originally gave his support to the Democratic party, but early espoused the cause of the Prohibition party, it having been his honor to deposit thefirst Prohibition ticket ever voted in Reed township. While deeply appreciative of spiritual verities and hav- ing a firm belief in an all-wise Providence, he never identified himself with any religious body, though his ideas w?re to a large extent in harmony with the tenets of the Universalist church.

Hugh B. Cain, the maternal grandfather of our subject, was for many years high sheriff of New York state and was a man of influence in political affairs in that state, as was he later in Seneca county, Ohio, having located in Attica in the year 1835 and here erected a residence of octagonal form, the same being one of the most pretentious and unique dwellings in the town at that f>eriod. He was a man of fine mentality and was an important factor in the Democratic i>arty in this section of the state. He and his wife, whose maiden name was Susan B. Lemon, both died in Attica, in whose best social life they were conspicuous figures. The mother of our subject was summoned into eternal rest on the i8th of August, 1898, having been a resident of Attica for sixty-three years and having been its oldest inhabitant at the time of her demise.

George C. Lake grew up under the influences of farm life, but was only twelve years of age at the time when his father's misfortunes made it necessary for him to contribute to his own support, and thus he has depended upon his own resources from his boyhood to the present time. As may be inferred-, his early educational privileges were thus very limited in scope, but as a boy he began an apprenticeship at the printer's trade, and it has been well said that to thus serve in a newspaper office is equivalent to a liberal education, and through his intimate association with the "art preservative of all arts" Mr. Lake has acquired a broad and exact fund of information and is an able writer and thinker. At the early age of fourteen he was made foreman of the Attica Journal, and two years later he assumed the editorial chair. He continued in the employ of the Journal for sixteen and one-half years, within which time he had won his spurs in the field of journalism and had developed a distinctive executive capacity, fortified by intimate knowledge of all details of the line of enterprise to which h^ had thus given his attention. On the loth of March, 1896, Mr. Lake severed his connection with the Attica Journal and founded' the Attica Weekly Hub, which he has conducted with signal success, developing a valuable paper and an excel- lent business in the other departments of his enterprise. The paper is independent in politics, is a seven-column folio and is issued on Wednesday of each week, while it now has a circulation of nearly one thousand copies, going into the best homes in this locality and exploiting local interests and affairs in the most approved style. The job department oi the Hub office is well equipped and the work turned out is of the highest type. Mr. Lake is one of the representative newspaper men of the county and is popular in both business and social circles, having a wide acquaintanceship in this section and being a progressive and publicspirited citizen. In politics he exercises his franchise in support of the principles and policies of the Demjocratic party. Fraternally he is identified with Attica Lodge, No. 302, Knights of Pythias, in which he has passed all the official chairs; with Attica Lodge, No. 212, Junior Order United American Mechanics; and with Attica Lodge, Modern Woodmen of America.

Mr. Lake has been twice married. On December 17, 1891, he was united to Miss Susie L. Goodnough, of Wheeler, Gratiot county, Michigan, she having been the daughter of Romanzo Goodnough, a prominent factor in the ranks of the Democratic patry. He and his wife were both bom in Seneca county, whence they removed to Michigan a number of years ago. Mrs. Lake was summoned into the eternal life on the i8th of January, 1898, having been the mother of three children, of whom Durell Bird and Ferris McKinley survive. On the 14th of October, 1900, ^r. Lake married Miss Lulu Honey, who was bom in Seneca county, the daughter of Christ Honey, who was born in Baden, Germany, and who became one of the pioneer settlers in Seneca county. Mr. and Mrs. Lake have one daughter, Beulah Angeline.

Charles H. Feasel

Charles H. Feasel is a self-made man, who from early boyhood has been dependent uix>n his own resources. Unaided he has fought the battles of life and has come off conqueror in the strife. To-day a valu- able farm of one hundred and twenty-five acres pays to him a golden tribute and is the visible evidence of his life of industry and perseverance.

Mr. Feasel is numbered among the native sons of Seneca county, his birth having occurred in Liberty township, April 5, 1857. ^^is parents, Alexander and Mary A. (Turner) Feasel, were also natives of Ohio, and the former was born in Liberty township, the paternal grandfather of our subject, Henry Feasel, having been one of the honored pioneer settlers of the locality. Coming here in early days, he entered land from the government and began the developmient of a farm, making a good home for his family. Alexander Feasel spent his entire life here and after attaining to man's estate devoted his energies to agricultural pursuits until his death, which occurred when he was fifty-five years of age. In his family were four children : William, a resident of Seneca county; Elmer, who is living in Jackson township; Charles H., of this review ; and Mariette, the wife of Frank Brown, an agriculturist of Liberty township.

On the old home farm Charles H. Feasel was bom, and in the ccmimon schools he pursued his education. When a little lad of seven summers he went to live with his grandparents and at the age of thirteen he began earning his own livelihood by working as a farm hand in the neighborhood. The compensation was not great, but it made him independent and he developed a self-reliance and a force of character which have proved important elements in his later business prosperity. WTien nineteen years of age he left Ohio, going to Michigan, but after a few months he returned to this state and for a year was employed as a farm hand in Seneca township and has since been a representative of its agricultural interests.

At the age of twenty-one, August 6, 1879, Mr. Feasel was joined in wedlock to Mrs. Jane (Flack) Updegraff, a daughter of Lewis and Margaret Ann (Null) Flack and the widow of John Andrew Updegraff, and their home has been blessed with seven children, as follows : Alexander; Nora Augusta, who died when three years of age; Eva Belle, LeEtta, Hattie E. A., Mary Jane and Franklin E. J. Mrs. Feasel has two children by her former marriag-e, Ernest and Minnie Mlay Updegraff, now wife of Herman Barton. Eva Belle is the wife of James Cheney, Alexander married Viola Cheney and Ernest Updegraff married Ada Sheets. Mr. and Mrs. Feasel began their domestic life upon the farm which is still their home. Our subject here owns and operates one hundred and twenty-five acres of rich land and is carrying on general farming. His fields are well tilled, his buildingsare substantial and kept in good repair, and everything about the place is neat and thrifty in appearance, indicating his careful supervision. He deserves great credit for what he has accomplished, having from his early boyhood been dependent ui>on his own resources. His life has been quietly passed, yet there is much in his history that is worthy of commendation. He has ever been straightforward in his dealings with his fellow men and has placed his dependence upon the substantial qualities of industry, careful management and resolute purpose, so that he now occupies a prominent position among the substantial farmers of Seneca county.

Norman Dunn

Norman Dunn, one of the leading and representative agriculturistsof Seneca county, was born on the farm on which his brother, Deroy C. Dunn, now resides, on the 20th of March, 1853, a son of William Nelson Dunn, the history of whom will be found in the sketch of Arlington Dunn in this volume. Our subject received his education in the' common schools of the neighborhood, and at the age of eighteen yearssecured emplo}^ment in the molding departmjent of the Tiffin Agricultural Works, where he remained for one year, and for eight months thereafter worked on the construction of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, while for the following two months he was employed by the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. Returning thence to the old home fann, he was there engaged in agricultural pursuits with his brother Deroy his father, located where the Belgian Glass Works were later built. After his marriage his father gave hirm thirty acres of the tract, and about three years later he was able to purchase the additional twenty acres, but in 1889 he disposed of that property and the following year became the owner of his present valuable farm of one hundred and sixty acres, where he has ever since resided. On this place he has erected a handsome brick residence and a commodious barn, has placed his fields under an excellent state of cultivation, and his is now one of the best developed and most desirable homesteads in the county.

In February, 1876, Mr. Dunn was united in marriage to Miss Jennie B. Wagner, a daughter of John Wagner, now deceased. Three children have been born of this union : Ida May, the wife of John Eit/, of Tifiin, Ohio; Ralph Clark, at home; and Parker W., who also is with his parents. The Democracy receives Mr. Dunn's hearty support and co-operation, and although he takes an active interest in the public affairs of his locality he has never been a seeker for political preferment. He has attained prominence in business circles, while in private life no man in Hopewell has miore friends than he, and they have been won and are being retained by his attractive personality, his outspoken devotion to the best interests of the community and his mental ability.

James T. Waltermier

During the war of the Rebellion, representing a most crucial epoch in our national history, Seneca county sent forth a due quota of her valiant sons to defend the integrity of the Union, and one of the number to be thus honored as a veteran of this great fratricidal conflict is the gentlentan whose name- initiates this sketch and who has made his home in the county during his entire life, being now a successful farmer of Jackson township.