Seneca Township (part 39 of 60)

Mr. Brendle was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, on the 14th of June, 1839, a son of Jacob and Catherine (Wertz) Brendle. These parents had five children, namely: Jacob, the subject cf this review; George, a resident of Tiffin, Ohio; Christina, the widow of Henry W. Creeger and a resident of Hopewell township; Barbara, the lately deceased widow of Michael Walters; and Margaret, the wife of Jacob Fleckner, who makes his home in Loudon township, Seneca county. The father of these children died in Germany, in 1852, and two years later the mother, with her five children, came to América, locating in Bascom, Seneca county, where she resided up to the time of her marriage to Henry Creeger, the father of Henry W. Creeger. She was called to her final rest on the 16th of March, 1884.

Jacob Brendle, of this review, was but fifteen years of age when he came with his mother to Seneca county, Ohio. His education was received principally in the schools of his native land, for after coming to this locality he was permitted to attend school during only two months of each winter for two years. During his first summer here he found employment on the farm, while for the following two years he worked in a sawmill, later spending six months in a potash factory in Carey, Ohio. After his mother's second marriage he worked on his stepfather's farm for eleven years, and after the latter's death he rented the prop- erty for one year. In 1869, in company with his brother George, he purchased his present farm, then consisting of one hundred and forty acres, and this relationship was continued until 1884, when the property was divided, the brother securing as his share the town property, while our subject became the owner of the farm. As the years have passed by and prosperity has rewarded his well directed efforts he has added to the original purchase until he is now the owner of one hundred and eighty acres of as fine land as can be found in Seneca county. He 1s one of the progressive and skilled agriculturists of the locality, and his undaunted enterprise and resolute purpose have been the means of raising him from a position of comparative obscurity to one of affluence in the business world.

In 1874 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Brendle and Miss Anna Baughman, a native daughter of this locality, where her father, Casper Baughman, located in an early day. Six children have blessed this union, namely: William and Jacob, who are attending school; Emma and Ella, at home; and two deceased, Charles and Catherine.

In political matters Mr. Brendle votes with the Democracy, but he is liberal in his views and his support is withheld from no moyenient or measure which in his best judgment is intended for the public good. He is a worthy member of the German Reformed church, in which he has long served as an elder and for a number of years he has also held the position of deacon therein. No one in the community enjoys a better reputation for integrity of word and deed, and when a man stands high in the estimation of the people who have known him during nearly his of the Buckeye state, his birth here occurred in Tiffin, on the 21st of October, 1864. His parents, John and Rosella (Kuepper) Frederick, were born in Luxemburg, Germany, and in 1849 they came with their parents to the United States. The paternal grandparents of our subject were John and Margaret Frederick, and the former was a stone-mason by trade. They took up their abode in Tiffin. The maternal grandfather was stricken with cholera during the voyage, and for a time was quarantined on Bedloe's Island, where he soon afterward died. His wife brought her family to Seneca county, locating on a farm near New Riegel. John Frederick, the father of our subject, learned the carpenter's trade, and since his marriage, which occurred in 1863, he has continued to work at his trade in Tiffin. He gives his political support to the Democracy, and the family are members of St. Joseph's Catholic church. Of the twelve children born unto Mr. and Mrs. Frederick only three now survive: Frank J., of this review; Charles, a resident of Tiffin; and Mary, at home.

Frank J. Frederick grew to years of maturity under the parental roof, and the common schools of the neighborhood afforded him his educational privileges. At the age of fourteen years he began work in the agricultural works in Tiffin, where he was employed as a machinist for the following four years, while for a similar period he worked as a millwright. He was next employed as a pattern-maker in the Tiffin National Machine Company's works in Tiffin, resigning his position therein after a four years' service to work at the carpenter's trade. He had never before worked at the trade, but he hired as an experienced workman. However, he was a close observer, and in the course of three years was recognized as one of the most expert workmen in the city of Tiffin. After four years he engaged in contracting and building, and during the succeeding five years he erected many houses in Tiffin, many of which were built for parties who paid for them on the installment plan. When twenty-one years of age Mr. Frederick purchased a residence property in that city, for which he paid one hundred dollars down and assumed an indebtedness of nine hundred dollars, but in three years' time, by careful and judicious management and indefatigable industry, he was enabled to pay the entire amount. He also purchased a lot and erected another residence, for which he was obliged to go in debt to the amount of about seventeen hundred dollars, but eighteen months later he sold that property and in 1893 bought another residence, for which he again assumed an indebtedness for seventeen hundred dollars. About six months afterward he purchased a half interest in a sawmill at St. Stephen's, but after continuing therein for six years he sold his interest to his partner, Peter Foos. In 1898 he purchased his present general store and residence property at St. Stephen's, and in the mercantile line he is meeting with a high and well-merited degree of success.

In 1890 Mr. Frederick was united in marriage to Miss Carrie Foos, a sister of Peter Foos, whose sketch will be found elsewhere in this volume. Five children have blessed the union of our subject and wife, namely: Clarence W., Bertha R., Irvin A., Hilda L. (who died in infancy) and Leland B.

Mr. Frederick is identified with the Democratic party, but he is liberal in his views and supports the men whom he regards as best qualified to fill positions of trust. The family are members of St. Stephen's Catholic church.

Julius Unser

One of the practical, progressive and enterprising agriculturists of Seneca county is Julius Unser, who owns a beautiful and highly cultivated farm in Hopewell township. He was born in this locality on the 17th of December, 1863, a son of Joseph and Johanna (O'Brien) Unser. The father was a native of Germany, but on the 14th of March, 1825, when he was a babe, the family left their little German home across the sea and came to America, locating in Loudon township, Seneca county, where they were among the early pioneers. The grandfather was a stonemason by trade, and in addition to following that vocation he also farmed an eighty-acre tract of land which he had entered from the government. On this place the son Joseph grew to years of maturity, and after his father's death he assumed the entire responsibility of the place, thus continuing until 1876, when he removed to a farm of one hundred and sixty acres which he had purchased the year previously. There he continued to make his home until 1892, when he took up his residence in Tiffin, and there his death occurred on the 17th of March, 1893. He became very successful in his farming operations, and in 1885 he was enabled to purchase an additional one hundred and twenty acres, where his son Daniel now resides. His widow also owns eighty acres adjoining the home place. Mr. Unser gave his political support to the Democracy and religiously was a member of St. Mary's Catholic church. Unto this worthy couple were born seven children, three of whom still survive, namely: Julius, the subject of this review; Daniel, a prominent farmer of Hopewell township; and Mary, the wife of John Smith, also of this township. One named Cecelia, died at eleven years of age, and a second was given the same name, and died at the age of twenty-seven years, on March 17, 1898, while still an inmate of her parental home. Loretta died in childhood, and Catherine married Andrew Shingler and died when twenty-seven years of age.

Julius Unser assisted his father in the work of the home place until 1889, when he assumed its entire responsibilities, and from that time until the present he has had entire charge of this valuable tract. Since attaining to mature years his business ability has been constantly manifested, showing unlimited possibilities, and as the result of undaunted enterprise, perseverance and resolute purpose he has risen to a commanding position in the business circles of Seneca county. He gives his political support to the Democracy, and in all matters pertaining to the welfare of his county, state or nation he takes an active interest.

Mr. Unser was first married in 1890, when Miss Matilda Phillips became his wife. She was a native of Seneca county and a daughter of John Phillips, a prominent farmer of St. Stephen's, this county. One child, Idella, came to bless and brighten their home. In 1895 the devoted wife and mother passed to her final rest, and two years later Mr. Unser wedded Miss Catherine Kauffman, also a native of Seneca county, and they have one child, Richard. The family are members of St. Mary's

Catholic church, and are held in the highest regard by their innumerable friends. The Unser place is one of the attractive farms of the county, the house being one of the large two-story brick structures for which this section is noted.

Daniel L. Crum

One of the progressive, practical and enterprising farmers of Seneca county is Daniel L. Crum, who resides in Hopewell township, where he owns and cultivates a rich tract of land. He is a native of Pennsylvania, his birth having occurred in Dauphin county, on the 18th of August, 1844, and his parents being Frederick and Susanna S. (Reeme) Crum. Upon the home farm he was reared and in the common schools he obtained bis education. His early work in the fields well fitted him for carrying on farming on his own account when he entered upon an independent busicareer.

In February, 1867, Mr. Crum was married to Miss Anna C. Kepple, a daughter of George Kepple, who was one of the pioneers of Seneca county and is now deceased. The young couple began their domestic life upon a farm of one hundred and thirty-four and a half acres in Clinton township, three miles north of Tiffin, which his father had purchased the year previous. There our subject engaged in the tilling of the soil for four years and then removed to the farm upon which he is now living, although his residence here has not been continuous since that time. This farm was also owned by his father, and Mr. Crum of this review leased it for seven years, at the end of which time he had accumulated capital sufficient to purchase it and since then he has been its owner. In 1889 his father persuaded him to rent his farm and removed to Clinton township in order to look after the farm owned by Mr. Crum, Sr., and through the succeeding eight years our subject rented and operated his father's place, returning to his own farm on the expiration of that period. Here he owns ninety-two and a half acres, and in addition his wife owns

The home of our subject and his wife has been blessed with eight children, seven of whom are yet living: Viola L., the wife of Colonel Cleggitt, of Pleasant township, Seneca county ; Naomi G., at home; Alice McCleta, the wife of A. L Lightner, of Tiffin; Ella E., who is with her parents ; Edward D., an employe of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company ; Arlington L. and Irvin R. who are still under the parental roof. Mr. Crum and his family are well known in the community and their home is a very hospitable one. He has never been an aspirant for political office, 'but has firm faith in the Republican party and its principles and always supports it with his ballot. He is one of the enterprising agriculturists

William H. King

The record of an honorable, upright life is always read with interest, and it better perpetuates the name and fame of the subject than does a monument, seen by few and soon crumbling into dust beneath the relentless hand of time. Those who have fought and suffered for the country in which their lot is cast are especially deserving of an honored place in its annals, and their posterity will turn with just pride to these records of the founders and preservers of a prosperous, united nation.

Born in Sandusky county, Ohio, October 31, 1837, Mr. King is a son of Samuel R. and Mary (Stewart) King. The father, who was a native of Maryland, and married there, located in Wyandot county, Ohio, and began farm life there on rented land. After remaining in that locality for a time he removed to Sandusky county, where he purchased a farm, but in 1850 he disposed of that property and came to Seneca county, taking up his abode in Hopewell township, and there he spent the re- 'mainder of his life, passing away about 1858. In early life he gave his political support to the Whig party, but after the Republican party was formed he joined its ranks and was ever afterward a stanch supporter of its principles. Of the six children born unto Samuel R. and Mary (Stewart) King only three are now living: Davenport S., a prominent farmer of Hopewell township; Henrietta, the widow of Henry S. Ruse and a resident of Lorain, Ohio; and William H., the subject of this review. Savilla Jane married George Mundwiler and died about one year later; Martha married George Ruse and died about the same length of time thereafter; and Daniel R., the youngest of the family, was a teacher for eight years in Seneca county, and was later in the hardware trade at Sycamore, Ohio, where he died at about twenty-eight years of age.

William H. remained under the parental roof until his sixteenth year, during which time he pursued his education in the village schools near his home. At that early age he began life on his own account as a farmer boy, working out for others by day and month, thus continuing until the inauguration of the civil war, when, in 1864, he loyally offered his services to the Union cause, entering Company I, One Hundred and Sixty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in which he served for three months at Arlington Heights, Virginia. After his return home Mr. King again took up the quiet duties of the farm, pursuing agriculture for two years on land belonging to his mother-in-law, and on the expiration of that period, in 1867, he became the owner of his present home farm of seventy acres, where he has ever since continued to make his home. He had an indebtedness of over two thousand dollars, which was cleared off at the same time he was making improvements, having a comfortable house and convenient barn. He has laid several hundred rods of drainage tile, and the fields are now in a first-class productive condition. He is an enterprising and prosperous farmer, and. his efforts in the line of his chosen calling have brought to him a high and well merited degree of success.

In the year 1859 Mr. King was united in marriage to Miss Amanda Ruse, who was born in Hopewell township, a daughter of Solomon Ruse, one of the early pioneers of tlfis locality. Three children were born of this union: Ida, the wife of William F. Martin, of Hopewell township; Silas and John H., both of Hopewell township. This loving wife and mother has been called to the home beyond, and for his second wife the father chose Miss Madora Freeze, a daughter of Barney Freeze, who was also among the very early settlers of Seneca county. This marriage has been blessed with eight children, namely: James, at home; Lillian, the wife of Charles Creeger, of Hopewell township; Susan, the wife of Ross Creeger, also of this township; and Russell, Lulu, Ray, Harrison and Carl, at home. Mr. King's political support is given to the Prohibition party. He is a member of Hopewell Bethel Church of God, and its interests have been greatly promoted through his zealous and earnest work. His many admirable qualities of heart and mind have gained for him a large circle of friends, and he is widely and favorably

Samuel Wannamaker

The name of Wannamaker has been an honored and respected one iu Seneca county, Ohio, since 1849, when the present family of the name was established here by Isaac Wannamaker, who was the father of Samuel Wannamaker, a highly respected citizen of Seneca county.

Samuel Wannamaker, who is the subject of this sketch, was born December 16, 1836, in Pickaway county, Ohio, and he was a son of Isaac and Catherine (Billig) Wannamaker, both of whom were natives of Lehigh county, Pennsylvania. Isaac Wannamaker and family moved 'to the former county in 1834, and there followed a farming life until 1849; then he removed to Seneca county and bought one hundred and sixty acres in Seneca township. He acquired more land, became prosperous and prominent in his locality and at the time of his decease owned an aggregate of two hundred and eighty-seven acres. Mr. Wannamaker was one of the leading members of the Lutheran church, where now his widow, who lives with Samuel, is one of the "mothers in Israel,'"' having reached her ninetieth year, the record of her life being one of kind, good deeds.

survivors of the family being as follows: Caroline, Samuel, Joel and Sylvester, all of Seneca township. The names of those who have passed away were Edwin, Daniel, Elias, Henry, Jacob, Mary A. and Isaac.

Samuel Wannamaker was thirteen years of age when the family came to Seneca county, a happy, healthy schoolboy, useful on the farm even at that early age, the '"'chores' being usually apportioned to him. 'After locating here he re-entered school and acquired a good commonschool education, which has been supplemented in later years with reading and association with public men and office through the county. He continued to make his home with his parents until he was thirty-five years ef age, for fifteen years following the threshing business. His tastes and talents, however, were not all in the direction of an agricultural life, and Mr. Wannamaker entered a carpenter shop in order to thoroughly learn this trade, becoming in the course of time a most skillful workman. Although the demands of his business take him away from home quite frequently, he has always made Seneca township his place of residence, and there enjoys the respect, esteem and confidence of his fellow citizens.

To this esteem his friends have testified by calling upon Mr. Wannamaker to fill positions of responsibility in the township, rtotably in the office of township treasurer, which he has efficiently filled for the past nine years. On the school board he has been a man of excellent judgment, and while school director the educational affairs of lis district have been carefully considered. He has taken a deep interest in political matters in this township, and is justly considered one of the leading members of the Democratic party, with which he has been identified since his young manhood.

Mr. Wannamaker was reared in the tenets of the Lutheran church and he has been an interested and active member for a number of years, serving as trustee of the church in Tiffin, where he has been one of the elders during a long period. Mr. Wannamaker is a man of parts, well read on a number of subjects and one who has testified in many ways to the interest he feels as a public-spirited citizen. In private life he is a man of exemplary character and has always been devotedly attached to his aged mother, who still experiences his tender care. He was married in 1871 to Amanda Huntsberger, who died in less than one year thereafter. His sister Caroline has continued at home and has charge of the household, being devoted to her aged mother.

Michael Walter

For many years Michael Walter occupied a very conspicuous placé among the agriculturists of Seneca county. His career was that of an honorable, enterprising and progressive business man, whose well-rounded character also enabled him to take an active interest in education and social and moral affairs, and to keep well informed concerning the momentous questions affecting the nation. In all life's relations he commanded the respect and confidence of those with whom he came in contact, ana the memory of his upright life is an inspiration to the many friends who knew him well and were familiar with his virtues.

A native son of the Buckeye state, Mr. Walter was born in Big Springs, Seneca county, April 12, 1845. His parents were Michael and Margaret E. (\Vitrick) Walter, and they had ten children, namely: Elizabeth, the wife of George Hetzel, of \Wyandot county, Ohio; Martia, of Wayne county, Ohio; George, a prominent farmer ot Hopewell' township; Michael, of this review; Henry, of Williams county; Mary, the wife of George Brendle, of Tiffin; John, who makes his home in Liberty township, Seneca county ; Joseph, also of Williams county ; Sarah, the wife cf Martin Weigel, of Seneca township; and William, a resident of Liberty township. Michael was the first of this family to pass to the: home beyond, and the youngest child has now reached the age of forty years.

Michael Walter, of this review, grew to years of maturity on his parents' homestead farm, receiving his elementary education in the comnon schools of the neighborhood, but being a broad reader he greatly added to his knowledge in later life and became a well informed man. In 1870 he went to Wayne county, Ohio, spending several months in that locality, and following this he was employed for two years in the lum-- ber regions of Michigan. Returning to his boyhood home, he once more took up his abde on the home farm with his father, and after his marriage he farmed the place for one year, removing thence to Liberty township, where for the following two years he was engaged in the sawmill business. On the expiration of that period he again returned to the old homestead, his parents having both died in the meantime, and for three years thereafter he farmed the place in the interest of the other heirs. In 1877 he became the sole owner of the farm, which consisted of one hundred and twenty acres, and there he continued to make his home until his life's labors were ended in death. He took a leading and active interest in the public affairs of his locality, and his political support was given to the Democracy.

In 1870 Mr. Walter was united in marriage to Miss Mary B. Brendle, the history of whose father will be found on another page of this volume. Eight children were born unto this union, only five of whom are now living, namely: Jesse William, a prominent farmer of this county ; Frank S., who is engaged in the operation of a threshing machine; and Charles L., Orlando H. and James E., at home. During the last sixteen years of his life Mr. Walter was a cripple, having been injured by being thrown from and run over by a binder. He closed his eyes in death on the 3d of October, 1901, passing away in the faith of the German Reformed church, of which his family also are members. A prominent representative of industrial interests, a popular factor in social life, a faithful friend, a kind husband and father and a consistent Christian, he leaves behind him an untarnished record. His widow, who supplied the principal facts in the above article, also passed to the great beyond on the 2oth of January, 1902.

James Albert Norton

Probably no person ever born in Seneca county has had a wider reputation or a more extended acquaintance than James A. Norton, who was born on the 11th day of November, 1843, in the village of Bettsville, this county.

His parents were among the pioneer settlers of the county and did much in giving an impetus to the advance and growth of the progressive features which have so distinctively marked the history of this section' of the state. His father, Dr. Rufus Norton, born in Utica, New York, was a son of Isaiah Norton, who was a native of the north of England, a descendant of a long line of ancestors, the representatives of which still remain prominent in English municipal affairs. The family was a branch of the Scottish McNaughton clan, well known in Scotch history of the time of the "Dark Douglas."' His mother, Clarissa Waters, was of French-English descent, and possessed the vivacity and determination characterizing the union of the Anglo-Saxon and Latin races.

Born of such an ancestry and endowed by nature with more than a liberal share of intellectual power, personal attraction, magnetism, eloquence and courage, it is no wonder that James A. Norton should rise to the position and success he has achieved. The youngest of a family of five, four sons and one daughter, his boyhood days were passed in his native village, where he attended school, and accompanied his father in the long drives consequent upon a large medical practice, in which he became deeply interested in the profession he afterward followed. His studies were continued later in the public schools at Tiffin, and were marked by the close application and thoroughness which he has shown in every undertaking engaged in since then.

Bred and nurtured in the Democratic faith, inspired with an ardent love for his country, moved by patriotic impulses, young Norton was an enthusiastic advocate for the maintenance of the Union, and found the restraint of school especially irksome, when the civil war came; and the news of battles fought, victories won or lost, made his heart beat with ambition and his pulse tingle with excitement until he could no longer endure inaction, so on the 16th of August, 1862, he bade adieu to home and friends, went to Monroeville and enlisted, when only eighteen years of age, in Company K, of the One Hundred and First Ohio Volunteer Infantry, being mustered in as a sergeant. He soon had occasion to begin actual service, for in September he went with his regiment to Covington, Kentucky, to repel a threatened invasion of the rebels under General

Kirby Smith, but was soon afterward ordered to Louisville, where the regiment became part of General Buell's army. On the 8th of October he first faced the enemy in battle array and thrilled with "The stern joy which warriors feel In foemen worthy of their steel," when, at Perryville, a stubborn fight with the Confederates was had. This was quickly followed by a skirmish at Lancaster, then, on Decemker 30th, the year was closed by the memorable battle of Stone River. The young soldier bore himself well in all these scenes of carnage, and won the admiration of his comrades by his conduct, and often to this day he is greeted by survivors of that fight by their recalling incidents of Stone River. In this battle the One Hundred and First Regiment took a most prominent part, and suffered greater loss than any other regiment engaged in the fight. Nearly all its officers were killed, the gallant Colonel Leander Stem being among the number. The remnant of the regiment passed the winter in scout duty around Murfreesboro until it was ordered to take part in the Tullahoma campaign, and later to move against Chattanooga. It was in this latter campaign, at the battle of Chickamauga, September 20th, during the second day's. fight, while supporting the Hotchkiss battery, that Sergeant Norton was wounded, his ribs on the left side being broken, and his left lung injured, from which he has never fully recovered. He was left lying on the field of battle until found in an unconscious condition by his brother, Cyrus G. Norton, who was also a member of his company. He was taken to Chattanooga and placed in the old dye house used as a hospital, from which place he was removed to Stevenson, Alabama, and then to Hospital No. 8, at Nashville, Tennessee. Here he was granted a furlough, and returned to his home ona visit. Rejoining his regiment at Nashville, he was ordered by the brigade commander to report before an examining board for promotion to the regular army, under general orders requiring the selection of the most capable men to officer new troops. After a severe examination he was passed and received his commission as lieutenant, signed by President Lincoln, and was assigned to the One Hundred and Twentythird United States (Colored) Infantry, with orders to report to General

John M. Palmer, who sent him to Louisville, Kentucky, to drill the colored troops. This detail was not regarded with favor by many of the officers, who declined such assignment, but Lieutenant Norton, believing it a soldier's duty to obey orders, hastened to his post and at once began to carry out his orders. After the dark-skinned soldiers had acquired considerable proficiency in military tactics and were under good discipline he was made adjutant and detailed with a body of troops to go to Bowling Green, Kentucky, to locate and care for a quantity of ordnance, remaining at this place until October 16, 1865, when he was mustered out by an error. Orders had been sent to muster out the One Hundred and Twenty-second Regiment, but in copying the order at division headquarters it was made to read "One Hundred and Twenty-third,' and thus, inadvertently, his connection with the army ceased.

In the meantime Lieutenant Norton had married. While at home on his furlough, on the 19th day of July, 1865, he went to Fostoria, the home of his bride, and there wedded Miss Adeline Hemming, then in her twentieth year of age, who accompanied him back to Louisville and remained with him until he was mustered out. Miss Hemming was the daughter of Thomas Hemming, who was one of the early settlers of the county, and who was the oldest educator, in point of service, in northwestern Ohio, having been engaged in teaching for over fifty years. He was also county surveyor for a number of years, and as such made the survey of Seneca county.

Returning to civil life, Mr. Norton took up the study of medicine: in his father's office and soon became a valued assistant. His close appli-. cation was, however, too great a strain upon his health, and in 1869 he: went to Hampton, Iowa, and entered upon a separate practice of his chosen profession. Deriving great benefit from the invigorating climate, his health became restored, and he soon had a large practice, constantly increasing, until in 1871, his father being accidentally killed, he returned to his native village and for eight years was the leading physician of that part of the country.

solidity of Democratic principles. In those stirring times of political action he could not refrain from taking more than a passing interest in 'the events of the day, and when he en<ered into tlie field of political conflict his keen sagacity, sound judgment and enthusiastic devction to party principles socn placed him at the forefront as a leader. Recognizing his ability and fitness, his party in Seneca county in 1873 placed him in nomination as their representative to the general assembly of the state, to which office he was elected by a large majority. Here his qualifications were quickly recognized, and he became one of the leaders, and his fund of information, his readiness in debate, his fluency of speech and his eloquence gave him prominence. He was placed on important committees, and was elected speaker pro tem. of the house. His course while in the legislature gave him a high standing in the councils of his party in the state, where he was recognized as one of its foremost advisers. During his attendance at the general assembly he devoted his evenings and spare moments to the study of law, in the office of Hon. George L. Converse, at Columbus, and in 1879 was admitted to the bar. It was largely due to Mr. Norton's efforts that the law was passed requiring all public officers to execute all pension papers tree.

At the close of the general assembly in 1879 Mr. Norton returned to Tiffin, which he made his headquarters while acting as general manager and solicitor for the Wiley Construction Company, of Massachusetts. During 1880 he purchased the paper known as the Herald, and edited it with such vigor that the first issue brought a five-thousand-dollar libel suit, which, however, was never prosecuted. The Herald was later sold to Dr. E. B. Hubbard, and subsequently became the Tribune. Mr. Norton still kept an active interest in local politics, serving as president of the school board, president of the common council, and as a member of the Seneca County Agricultural Society. The only political defeat that Dr. Norton ever met was when he ran for councilman on the famous "'cow crdinance." Standing for rigid enforcement of its provisions, he was defeated by the vote of a large number who wanted their cows to run at Ierge. In 1884 he was delegate to the national Democratic convention.

F. E. Stoner, deceased, and in October of the same year was elected to the office, and again in 1887 was re-elected. He was appointed as United States inspector of customs at Panama by President Cleveland, but declined. He served as chairman cf the Democratic state central and executive committees, and'as chairman of the state convention. In 1890 he was appointed by Governor Campbell as state commissioner of railroads and telegraphs, serving the state with fidelity and success during the whole of Governor Campbell's administration, and for four months under Governor McKinley, when he resigned to accept a position in the law department of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. In 1896 Dr. Norton was nominated by the Democracy of the thirteenth district of Ohio for representative in congress, at a convention held at Marion, Ohio. In 1898 he was renominated, at Upper Sandusky; in 1900, at Bucyrus, he was again for the third time nominated; and in 1902, at Sandusky, by an overwhelming majority, he was again selected as candidate for the fourth term in congress, and each time he has been elected by increasing majority.

In congress he has served on the invalid pensions and District of Columbia committees, and he has given time and attention to the duties of his office. His quick perception, his sound judgment, wise counsel and unfailing good nature join in giving him a firm hold upon the esteem, confidence and friendship of his fellow members. He is ever ready to champion the principles of his party, and is ever at the front, taking the advance step, and points out in speeches of combined logic, argument, sarcasm and eloquence the true position upon which Americans, as such, regardless of party can stand.

Dr. Norton, with his social nature, of course could not but have some affiliation with fraternal organizations, so we find that in the winter of 1864-5, at Louisville, Kentucky, he became a member of Compass Lodge, No. 222, F. & A. M., and in 1882 a member of Tiffin Lodge, No. 80, Knights of Pythias. He was a charter member of Leander Stem Post, G. A. R., and a regular attendant until, at the death of General W. H. Gibson, this post united with another post and took the name of W. H. Gibson Post; then Mr. Norton, with a large number of others, withdrew, believing it was a wrong to the memory of the heroes who died on the field of battle to drop their name for one who had no greater military claim and who had been honored in civil life. Mr. Norton is a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and finds pleasure in the friendships and fraternal spirit found in that order.

Generous to a fault and social to a high degree, Mr. Norton wins friends easily, and he has the happy faculty of drawing them closer to him as the years pass by. Viewed in a personal light he is a strong man, of excellent judgment, fair in his views and highly honorable in his relations with his fellow men. His integrity stands as an unquestioned fact in his career and his example is well worthy of emulation.

Henryk Bunk

An old resident, esteemed citizen and successful agriculturist of Seneca county, Ohio, is found in Henry K. Funk, who was born on the farm which he now owns and occupies, in Seneca township, March 19, 1837. He was a son of Daniel and Sarah (Kearns) Funk, the former of whom was born in Fairfield county, Ohio, on June 21, 1804, and passed cut of life on August 19, 1879. The latter was also born in Fairfield county, on April 11, 1812, was reared and educated and also marricd, April 11, 1829, in that county, but died in Seneca county on October f72.1602.

Although a family of seven children was born to the parents of our subject, the only surviver is the latter. The others were as follows: Ellen, who married Daniel Hemming and died. at the age of twenty years; Ann Catherine, who married Henry Jones and died in 1875, aged forty-one years; Mary, who became the wife of Daniel Reisz and died when thirty-three years of age; Jacob, who married Sylvia A. Stoner, the eldest sister of the wife of our subject. and they have five children, - Oliver M., Hattie Ellen, Arthur, Bertha and Harry. Jacob died February 19, 1890, in his forty-ninth year; and John and Daniel, the other brothers of our subject, died unmarried.

It was in the year 1834 that Daniel Funk moved from Fairfield county to Seneca county, where he entered a tract of one hundred and sixty acres of government land on section 19, in Seneca township, now comprised in the farms of Jacob and Henry Funk. Upon this land he immediately erected a hewed-log cabin, containing but one room, in which picturesque little home his family was safely sheltered. This land was heavily timbered and became of value as the town of Tiffin expanded into a little city, and railroad lines began to connect this locality with the great west. Mr. Funk was an industrious man, one who enjoyed the esteem of his neighbors and was well known at the time of his death, in 1879. His widow survived until her eighty-first year, dying in 1893.

Henry K. Funk, who is the subject of this sketch, was reared on the farm of his birth, and remained at home until the outbreak of the civil war in 1861. \Vhen every town, village and country lane was responding to the call for young life to be offered upon the altar of country, our subject was one of that courageous and loyal band. He entered Company K, Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, for a service of three years, and with his regiment was sent into the locality which soon became historic and sacred ground to the true American citizen. He took part in his first battle at Green river, Kentucky, and then came Nashville, Corinth, Missionary Ridge, Chickamauga and then Nashville again. Mr. Funk was twice wounded, first at New Hope Church, when he was incapacitated by a ball passing through his left cheek, coming to the surface under his right ear. This serious wound kept him in hospitals in Louisville and camp for three months, his regiment being in Georgia when he returned to it. He accompanied his comrades in the last war movements when his portion of the army marched from Nashville to New Orleans and then to Texas, where his term of service expired, and he was mustered out on November 13, 1865, at Columbus, Ohio, his gallantry have caused his promotion from private to sergeant.

'dren was born to this union, two of whom died in infancy, Daniel B. and John dying of scarlet fever in young boyhood, and Clara, reaching matur-

The second marriage of Mr. Funk was on July 21, 1891, to Mrs. Rozella (Stoner) Snyder, who was the widow of Frank Snyder, and the daughter of George and Louisa (Wilkins) Stoner. Two children have been born to this marriage, namely: Rolla C., April 13, 1892; and Henry Franklin, October 8, 1808.

Soon after his first marriage Mr. Funk went to Harrison township, Henry county, where he lived for seven years, coming then to his present farm, where he has been a successful farmer and stock-raiser ever since. The excellent improvements which make this one of the model farms of the township have been placed here by him, who now has one of the best arranged, most comfortable and attractive homes in this vicinity. Herve he has one hundred and twenty-five acres, which is in a high state of cultivation.

Mr. Funk has always upheld the principles of the Republican partv, although he has. been no politician in the real sense of the word. His quiet, busy home life has had more attraction for him than the excitements of politics. For some forty years, however, he has been a member of the Masonic fraternity, and is a valued brother Mason in Wyandot Lodge, No. 314, at McCutchenville.

Mr. Funk has many friends in this township, where his character as an upright and honorable man is well known. He is pleasant and agreeable in manner, and both he and estimable wife delight to offer the hospitality of their pleasant home to their many friends.

Vernon H. Slosser

Of all the young men who have acquired their educational discipline in Seneca county and have had their characters molded and developed in it§ institutions, receiving here the impetus toward progress and achievement characteristic of the times, certainly none have reflected greater

Mr. Slosser was born on the farm on which he now resides on the 13th of May, 1871, a son of John and Louisa A. (Wolf) Slosser, and of their two children he alone survives. The father was born in Virginia October 10, 1811, and in 1830 he came with his parents to Seneca county, Ohio, his father, Peter Slosser, locating land in Clintcn township, where he continued to reside for eighteen months. In the meantime he had entered the farm which our subject now owns, on which he erected a cabin, and there the grandparents lived and died. The grandfather and his eldest son, Peter, together acquired about eighteen hundred acres of land in Seneca county and also about two hundred acres in Wood county, the latter being heavily timbered, and there they conducted a sawmill for a number of years. After the grandfather's death the son John, the father of our subject, was made administrator of the estate, and as his share of the property he acquired the home farm of one hundred and sixty acres. Soon afterward he was married to Miss Emaline Wolf, but three years later their happy married life was ended in death, the wife having been called to the home byond. Mr. Slosser afterward married her cousin, Miss Louisa A. Wolf, who was born in Muskingum county, Ohio, August 13, 1834, a daughter of Andrew Wolf. Mr. Slosser continued to reside on the homestead farm until his death, which occurred on the 17th of October, 1897, in his eighty-sixth year, passing away in the faith of the United Protestant church, in which he had long served as a deacon. He gave his political support to the Republican party, and for many years he was a justice of the peace, during which time he united in marriage many residents of the county. The year following her husband's death Mrs. Slosser removed to Bascom, where she has ever since made her home.

Vernon H. Slosser, the immediate subject of this review, was reared to manhood amid the refining influences of a cultured home, and the educational advantages which he received in his youth were those afforded by the common schools of the neighborhood. After his marriage he took charge of the old family homestead, which he farmed on the shares for a time, and after his father's death he acquired as his share of the property one hundred and twenty acres, where he is extensively engaged in general farming. He is a young man of keen foresight and sagacity, and therefore is enabled to make judicious investments, which yield him a good profit. He is energetic, enterprising and reliable, and therefore has won and retains the confidence of the residents of the locality in which his entire life has been passed.

On the 22d of December, 1892, Mr. Slosser was united in marriage to Miss Cora Dewald, a native of Loudon township, Seneca county, and a daughter of Philip Dewald, one of the early pioneers and prominent farmers of that township. Three children have graced this marriage, but only Nina E. is now living. Marion J. died of pneumonia February

James H. Knapp

The Empire state has sent her sons into every portion of the Union, Seneca county claiming a share of those who have come to Ohio. Among them is James H. Knapp, who was born in Putnam county, New York, July 12, 1842, his parents being Gilbert and Cynthia (Chase) Knapp. In the family were three children, John and Cyrus, both residents of Erie county, Ohio, being the younger brothers. They are operating the old family homestead near Castalia, Erie county, where their father purchased one hundred sixty acres of land, to which he added as his financial resources increased, until his farm comprised three hundred and twenty acres. He made extensive improvements and, converting his land into productive fields, they annually returned to him abundant harvests. Throughout his entire life he was a farmer and died at the old homestead March 8, 1894, at the age of seventy-two years. His widow still survives him, now in her eighty-second year.

ices to the government, joining Company I, One Hundred and Fortyfifth Ohio Infantry, which was in the hundred-day service in defense of Washington. In 1867 he went to Marshalltown, Iowa, where he was engaged in the dry-goods business two years. Returning, he located in Scipio township, where he took charge of the farm for his wife's step-father, Hon. Daniel Brown. Here he has since resided, and that he is an enterprising and energetic farmer is indicated by the farm's neat and thrifty appearance.

On the 12th of October, 1870, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Knapp and his cousin, Mrs. Joanna Crissel, a native of Putnam county, New York, and the widow of Captain W. J. Crissel. Captain W. J. Crissel was a native son of Perry county, Ohio, and in his youth learned the harnessmaker's trade, though quite early in life he became a merchant, conducting a successful dry-goods trade at Republic for several years. His marriage to Miss Joanna Brown took place in 1853, from which time he resided on the present home, where he died February 9, 1869. At the outbreak of the Mexican war he enlisted in an Ohio regiment, serving as sergeant throughout the war and receiving a wound in one arm during one of those ever memorable and desperate battles. In 1864, when the national capital was thought to be in danger, he organized a company for its defense. At the organization of the One Hundred and Sixty-fourth Regiment he was elected captain of Company Ik, and so served during the brief but interesting period required by the government. He was a brave, popular and efficient officer and one who gained and retained the esteem of his men. As in all matters in which he became interested, he took a leading part in advancing the farming interests of the community, and rendered much encouragement and help in the introduction of the best breeds of stock, his farm really becoming headquarters for sheep men, as many sales of Vermont Spanish Merinos were held here and breeders from all sections of this and surrounding states came to recognize him as a wide-awake, enthusiastic and progressive citizen. The results of his ambition were well exemplified in the many substantial improvements he made on the farm, which had

Captain Crissel's enthusiasm was never shown to better advantage than when he was advocating the principles of the Republican party, and being thoroughly informed on political history, he was never at loss for substantial argument to maintain his views, which were ever foremost, though his strength lay iargely in his personal contact with men and his persuasive private conversation. Thcugh never aspiring to political honor, he ably filled various Iccal offices. His wide reading and scholarly attainments made him one of the best-informed men of the township, and his active participation in public matters and the Masonic fraternity, in which he was highly honored, coupled with pleasing personality and affable manners, made him universally respected and loved. Two sons were born to Captain and Mrs. Crissel: Daniel B. and Fred, both of whom are residents of Scipio township.

The parents of Mrs. Knapp were Hon. Daniel and Sally M. (Chase) Brown, who, in the year 1836, came from Tompkins county, New York, to Seneca county, Ohio, where her father purchased cne hundred and thirty-three acres of land, constituting the farm upon which Morgan Ink now resides. He there cleared the fields and developed an excellent farm property, upon which he resided until 1853, when he came to the farm which is now the home of Mr. and Mrs. Knapp and 'which adjoins the old homestead. There he died in 1872, at the age of 'seventy-two years. He was a member of the state legislature in 1844-5 and was widely recognized as a leader of public thought and opinion in his locality. He also held some local offices, including those of justice of the peace, coroner and trustee, and after the organization of the Republican party he became one of its stanch advocates and worked unceasingly to promote its growth and insure its success. Of the Universalist church he was an active and zealous member. His wife survived him for many years and passed away January 25, 1896, at the age of eighty-one. Their only child was she who is now Mrs. Knapp.

Mr. Knapp is now the owner of three hundred and thirty-five acres of rich and arable land, all in one body, and carries on general farming and stock-raising, making a specialty of the breeding of short-horn fellow townsmen elected him township trustee for ten years and in further recognition of his worth and ability elected him county commissioner in 1895. Mr. Knapp is active and earnest in his adherence to and advocacy of Republican principles, though his ability and proved honesty as a trustee gave him, when a candidate for the commissionership, the support of a large element within Democratic ranks. He received a majcrity of about eight hundred, when the courity is conceded to the Democrats by about eleven hundred under normal conditions. Such extravagance had crept into the management of the county's affairs that a man was needed whose influence would tend to counteract that tendency, and Mr. Knapp was thought to possess just the essential elements, - sagacity, keen business acumen, absolute honesty and a will that could be stubborn if necessary. In 1882 he had been selected as secretary of the Farmers' Mutual Relief Association, and during his ten years of service its business had more than deubled, having four millions of insurance at risk in 1895. His value as a shrewd financier and economical manager was thus well known, and that no mistake was made in his selection as commissioner is amply proven by reference to the financial condition of the county when he entered upon his duties and that shown two and one-half years later. The total indebtedness March 1, 1895, was in excess of $161,500, while September 21, 1897, it was but $17,750, 2 reduction of $143,800. A comparison of tax levies is even more interesting. In 1894 it was seven and seventy hundredths, while for 1897 it was but three and seventy-six hundredths. The above statistics amply illustrate the value of such a man on the board of commissioners. Yet in the face of what was accomplished for the county, Mr. Knapp was defeated for re-election.

The Knapp homestead, one mile south of Republic, on the Kilburn road, is not only one of the best appointed farms of the county, whose operation returns ample tribute to the owner's sagacity and management, but it is also noted for the cordial hospitality ever extended, whether to the personal friend or to the stranger. No children have crowned the union of Mr. and Mrs. Knapp, yet one little girl, Minnie Knapp, was taken into the family and an excellent permanent home provided; and now that she has reached mature womanhood she still remains to partially compensate in presence and tender attention for the generous solicitude of which she has been the recipient. It affords us pleasure to present herewith excellent portraits of this esteemed couple.

Daniel Reisz

One of the excellent farmers, old settlers and prominent citizens of Seneca county, Ohio, is Daniel Reisz, who owns and occupies a farm in Seneca township, a tract of valuable land which his father entered from the government in 1833.

The birthplace of Daniel Reisz was in the Rhine province of Bavaria, Germany, November 9, 1829, and he was a son of Jacob and Mary E. (Scheer) Reisz, both of whom were natives of the fatherland. Jacob Reisz and family started from Europe in 1833, taking passage on a French sailing vessel, finally reaching the friendly shores of America after fifty-one days of exposure to the tumults of the ocean. Mr. Reisz brought his wife and children te Seneca county, Ohio, and as he found land in this locality to suit his purpose he entered eighty acres and immediately began its improvement. The first work was the building of a log house, and although it contained but a single room it proved a comfortable home in which a family of sixteen children found parental care. Mr. Reisz was a hard-working man and lived to be only fifty years of age, dying in 1846. Twelve of his children grew to manhood, the wholesome, outdoor life with its accompanying duties making these children strong and robust, able to fill successfully useful positions in life. At the outbreak of the civil war three of these home-bred boys offered their lives for their adopted country, our subject being the only one who survived. John became a private soldier in the Fifty-seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry and died in 1862, in Memphis, Tennessee; and Jacob joined a Wisconsin regiment, and later was sent home on account' of disability, his death occurring ten days later. ?

Our subject was not four years old when his parents located on this farm. It was wild timber land, crossed by a trail of the Seneca and 'Wyandot Indians, and it was no uncommon sight to see members of these tribes on some part of the farm. Mr. Reisz had few educational opportunities, no schools having been established in the vicinity, and as early as eight years old his services were of considerable value in the clearing of the land. Game was plentiful and when only five years of

Until his enlistment for army service, in 1864, our subject remained on the farm, but at that date he followed the example of his brothers and became a private in the Sixty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, was mustered in at Sandusky, and joined the regiment at Chattanooga. He participated in the battles at Pulaski, Columbia, Spring Hill, Franklin and Nashville, and remained in the service until the close of the war, accompanying his regiment in all of its movements, finally returning unharmed to his old home. Here Mr. Reisz has resided ever since, engaging successfully in farming and stock-raising, having brought his land to a high state of cultivation, his improvements making it one of the most desirable farms in Seneca township.

The first marriage of Mr. Reisz was in 1860, to Miss Mary A. Funk, whose death occurred in 1872. In 1873 he was united in marriage to Miss Susan Henry, and to this union a family of four children has been added, viz.: Lucy Idella, who is the wife of William Herbert,. of Loudon township; Laura, who resides at home and is a popular teacher in this county; Lamanda J., who is an expert dressmaker residing at home; and Charles Tecumseh Sherman, who is a teacher and one of the successful farmers of this vicinity.

In his political convictions Mr. Reisz has never wavered in his allegiance to the Republican party. He was reared in the Lutheran church, where he has officiated the greater part of his life, though holding decided views on questions relating to theology, being a close Bible student and familiar with both ancient and modern history. For fortythree years Mr. Reisz has been a member of the Masonic fraternity, hav-

Mr. Reisz is widely known and universally esteemed. His long residence here has identified him with the changes which have taken place in this county, and he has ever been an important factor in promoting enterprises looking to the upbuilding of the agricultural interests of Seneca township and county. Ever alive to the advantages of education, he has not only afforded his own children the best opportunities, but also has constantly worked for a better grade of public schools, seeing in them the greatest safeguard to American institutions.

In viewing the mass of mankind in the varied occupations of life, the conclusion is forced upon the observer that in the vast majority of cases men have sought employment not in the line of their peculiar fitness, but in those fields where caprice or circumstances have placed them, thus explaining the reason of the failure of ninety-five per cent. of those who enter commercial and professional circles. In a few cases it seems that men with a peculiar fitness for a certain line have taken it up and marked success has followed. Such is the fact in the case of the subject of this biography. He has attained to a distinguished position in connection with the medical fraternity of Seneca county, making his home in Attica.

He was born in Hardinsburg, Indiana, April 2, 1858, and is a son' of Alfred and Lucinda (Davison) Force. His father was born in Schuyler county, New York, June 8, 1822, and was there reared to manhood. He engaged in farming and was also well known for his musical ability and talent, giving instruction in vocal music. Later he entered the Scudder Medical College at Cincinnati, Ohio, and was graduated in 1857, 'after which he went to Hardinsburg, where he practiced for three years. He then came to Attica and opened an office and practiced until 1864, when he sent his family to the east while he enlisted in the Union army as a surgeon in the One Hundred and Eighty-first Regiment of Ohio Volunteers, remaining at the front until the close of the war. He rendered valuable service to the sick and suffering troops, and when hostilities had ceased he went to the east, locating in Horseheads, New York. There he remained until 1881, when he again came to Attica, where he resided up to the time of his death, which occurred on the 17th of September, 1900. He was one of the most prominent and skilled physicians of the county and had a large and important patronage. His political support was given the Republican party and he was an active and influential member of the Universalist church. The Force family is of French lineage, the name having been originally La Force. The mother of our subject was of Scotch-Irish descent. She was born in Schuyler county, New York, February 20, 1826, and died May 5, 1895. In the family cf this worthy couple were four children, of whom three are living: Winfield S.; Alice, the widow of Rev. S. T. Tackabury; and C. A., of this review.

Dr. Ferce, whose name introduces this review, was reared under the parental roof, and after attending the graded schools was graduated in the high school in Horseheads. In 1879 he took up the study of medicine, his reading being directed for two years by Dr. R. P. Bush, of Horseheads. Later he became a traveling salesman and for two years represented a Philadelphia drug house. In 1883 he came to Attica and in the fall of the same year matriculated in the Starling Medical College at Columbus, where he completed a regular course and was graduated in the spring of 1885. He then entered into partnership with his father, with whom he practiced until 1889, when, on account cf ill health, the senior physician retired from active connection with the medical profession, and Dr. Force, of this sketch, succeeded to the business of the firm. He has built up a very large and lucrative practice and is ranked among the leading physicians of the county.

On the 15th of September, 1885, Dr. Force was united in marriage to Miss Emma Tendick, a native of Attica, Ohio, and a daughter of the Rev. Peter Tendick, now deceased. They have two children, Mary H. and Rockwell C. The Doctor belongs to Attica Lodge, No. 367, F. &

A. M., has filled all of its offices, and is identified with Attica Lodge, No. 302, K. of P. In politics he is a stanch Republican, and for eight years was a member of the town council, while for about ten years he was the health officer. He is now the president of the school board at Attica and the cause of education finds in him a warm friend. He also served for three years as president of the water-works. His public-spirited interest in the general good has been manifest in many ways, especially in the hearty co-operation which he gives to every movement or measure calculated to advance the general welfare. However, he makes his professional duties his first care. He took a post-graduate course in New York in 1888 and another in the same school in 1895, while in 1901 he pursued post-graduate work in the Clinical School and the Cook county hospital, of Chicago. He is amember of the Northwestern Ohio Medical Association, and through reading and investigation keeps in touch with the advanced thought of the profession. Anything is of interest to him which tends to bring to man the key to that mystery which we call life. He has the closest regard for the highest professional ethics and enjoys in an unusual degree the respect of the members of the medical fraternity as well as of the public.

Seneca county, Ohio, has been the home and scene of labor of many men who have not only led lives which should serve as a lesson and lucentive to those who come after them, but who have also been of important service to their county and state through various avenues of usefulness. Like his honored father, Charles Ash has been an important factor in connection with the industrial activities of this his native county, where he has not only attained a high degree of success in connection with the great basic art of agriculture, but has also done much to promote the industry of stock-raising and forward the agricultural interests

(1902) Mr. Ash will enter upon the active duties of the office of treasurer of Seneca county, and his election to the same is significant of the high estimate placed upon his integrity and abilities by the people of his native county, for he was chosen to this responsible office as the candidate on the Republican ticket, by a majority of about twelve hundred votes, and that in face of a normal Democratic majority of about fifteen hundred in the county. His preferment under these conditions is, indeed, significant, and no further endorsement need be entered as indicating the confidence and esteem in which he is so uniformly held, for the public is a discriminating factor and ever pronounces unequivocally upon the intrinsic worth of the individual.

Charles Ash was born on the parental homestead, in Jackson township, Seneca county, Ohio, on the 18th of December, 1857, being the son of that honored pioneer citizen, William Ash, to whom individual reference is made on another page of this work, so that a genealogical recapitulation is not demanded at this juncture. Our subject was reared on the old homestead and received his early educational training in the public schools of the locality. At the age of eighteen years he became actively associated with his father in the buying and shipping of live stock, soon giving evidence of that discrimination and that executive capacity which have been the conservators of his sticcess. In February, 1885. Mr. Ash effected the purchase of eighty acres of his present fine homestead, and forthwith located on the same, where, in connection with general agriculture, he continued to devote his attention to the buying and selling of live stock for a number of years, his operations in the line being of marked benefit in furthering the advancement of the stock industry in: this locality. He has added to his landed estate until he now owns six hundred and ninety-one acres, in five farms, of as valuable land as can he found in the county, the same having been equipped with the best of permanent improvements and standing as model farms of this section of the state. His farming is conducted by tenants, though in past years he did an extensive business, cultivating several hundred acres, with several men in his employ. His principal crops are wheat. corn, clover-seed and hogs. For twerty years he tilled on a much larger scale than at present, though he now manages the home farm of three hundred acres, growing nearly one hundred acres of corn as one feature of this line of his business. He also owns three hundred and twenty acres of land in Logan county, Kansas. Nearly a decade ago Mr. Ash enlarged the scope cf his operations by beginning to buy and ship grain, initiating this enterprise in a somewhat modest way. It has, however, been cumulative in character, and in the summer of 1901 he erected a well-equipped grain elevator in the village of Amsden, and has since handled a large business in this line, making extensive shipments and thus aiding materially in advancing the agricultural interests of the locality. He is essentially alert and public-spirited in his attitude, and his interest in all that conserves the general welfare is unabating.

In political matters Mr. Ash has ever been found stanchly arrayea in support of the principles and policies of the Republican party, and he has been called upon to serve in postions of local trust and responsibility aside from that to which reference has already been made. He was incumbent of the position of township clerk for two years, and for the past sixteen years has served as justice of the peace, an office in which his father gave able and efficient administration for more than a quarter of a century. In November, 1901, our subject was elected to preside over the fiscal affairs of the county, and, as before stated, will enter upon the 'discharge of his duties as treasurer in September of the present year. In 1900 he served as land appraiser of his township. F[raternally Mr. Ash is identified with Fostoria Lodge, No. 305, Independent Order of Odd Fellows with Kansas Lodge, No. 183, Knights of Pythias, at Kansas, this county; and with Kansas Tent, No. 282, Knights of the Maccabees.

On the 25th of March, 1883, Mr. Ash was united in marriage to Miss Belle F. Foster. who was born in Jackson township, the daughter of Sampson and Margaret (Stahl) Foster, an influential farmer of that locality, and of this union five children were born, namely: Earl, Herbert F. and Carmen, who remain at the parental home; and William and Rebecca, who died in infancy. Mrs. Ash ts a member of the Methodist Protestant church, and while our subject is not a member of any religious body he is chairman of the board of trustees of the Methodist Episcopal church at Amsden and takes a consistent concern in the promotion of religious, educational and other interests for the general good.

Thomas Blair

Thomas Blair, who is engaged in general farming in Seneca township, is numbered among Ohio's native sons, for his birth occurred near New Lancaster on the rst of January, 1816. More than eighty-five years have passed since that time and great changes have occurred in the Buckeye state. It has long since ceased to be a '"'western'' state, for progress and civilization have moved far beyond the Mississippi. Its wild lands have been reclaimed and transformed into fertile farms, towns and villages have sprung up and some of the most extensive business interests of the country have been established within its borders. Mr. Blair has taken a deep interest and just pride in what has been accomplished here, and at all times in a quiet but loyal way he has supported the measures and movements which he believed to be for the general good.

His parents, John and Rachel (Wilson) Blair, were honored pioneer settlers of Ohio and in 1824 they came with their family to Seneca county, taking up their abode in Seneca township, living upon the Indian reserve for a few years. Mr. Blair afterward entered eighty acres of land from the government and erected a hewed-log house. His land was covered with heavy timber and it required persistent and hard work to clear it and make it ready for the plow. As the years passed, however, great changes occurred in the appearance of the farm, which became a very attractive tract of land. The father of our subject made his home thereon until his death, which occurred when he was seventy-five years of age, while his wife had réached the age of seventy years, she dying but five days after him. They were the parents of seven children: William, who died at sixty-five; Rachel, who married John Swaney and died at seventy-five; Thomas, the subject of this review; James, a resident of

In taking up the personal history of Thomas Blair we present to our readers the life record of one who is widely and favorably known in Seneca county, his residence here covering more than three-fourths of a century. He was a little lad of only eight years when he arrived in Seneca township and for a few years thereafter his playmates were the children of the Mohawk Indian tribe. He became thoroughly familiar with the Mohawk tongue and greatly enjoyed the sports of his Indian friends. He never had any trouble with them and expresses strongly the opinion that there is more honor among the red race than is often found among the white men. All the experiences and trials of pioneer life were familiar to him, as well as pleasures of a character that are unknown at the present day. \hen nineteen years of age he entered upon an independent business career, hiring out to clear land, and from that time forward he has depended entirely upon his own resources for all that he has enjoyed in the way of material comforts.

Mr, Blair was first married in 1840, the lady of his choice being Mary Sailor, by whom he had five children: John \V.. who lives in \Montana; Thomas J.. a resident of Gratiot county, Michigan; Rhoda, the widow cf Benjamin Clay, of Adrian, Ohio; Jeremiah, who also resides in Montana: and Samuel, who died at thirty-two. After the death cf his first wife Mr. Blair was again married, his second union being with Miss Elizabeth Spitler. by whom he also had five children, as follows: Joseph, who makes his home in Montana: Mary, the wife of Joseph M. Conoway, of Virginia; Grace, who married John Fruth; Frank, at home: and Amanda, who married Albert Fruth.

At the time cf his marriage Mr. Blair had but one horse and his financial resources were very limited. He erected a log cabin on the farm where he now resides, the primitive home containing but one room. Long since, however, it has been replaced by a commodious modern residence, and good barns and outbuildings have been added and all desirable improvements made. He owns one hundred and twenty acres of tract, the fields yielding to himi a golden tribute in reward for his labor. For many years he has served as school director and has ever taken a deep and attaching interest in all that pertains to intellectual development. As one of the honored pioneers of the county, he justly deserves representation in this volume., His memory forms a connecting link between the primitive past and the progressive present and few men now living in Seneca county are better informed concerning its history when Ohio was a frontier state than is Thomas Blair, whose reminiscences of the early days are most interesting.

Alfred L. Shafer

The agricultural interests of Seneca county have no better representatives than its native-born citizens, many of whom are classed among its most practical, enterprising and successful farmers. One of the number is Mr. Shafer, who is one of the prominent citizens of Pleasant township. Dependent upon his own resources from his boyhood, he has so applied his energies and ability as to attain a success worthy the name, while his high standing in the community indicates the objective appreciation of his sterling character.

Mr. Shafer was born in Clinton township, this county, on the 30th of November, 1841, being the son of Joseph and Susan (Cain) Shafer, both of whom were born in Pennsylvania, where their marriage was solemnized. They became the parents of four children, namely: Mary J., the wife of Ransom Meredith, of Marshall county, Indiana; Eliza, the widow of W. P. Daywald, of Clinton township; Alfred L., the subject of this review; and John A., who died in Indiana, at the age of fiftyseven years. The parents of our subject came to Seneca county in 1837, locating on a farm in Clinton township, where the father reclaimed a tract of wild land and where he made his home until his death, in 1849, at the age of forty-seven years, his wife passing away in 1881, at the age

Alfred L. Shafer was reared in his native county and when but ten years of age he assumed the practical responsibilities of life, working by the day or month for his board and clothing, and being in the employ of others until 1861. He secured his early educational discipline in the public schools, and through his own efforts accumulated sufficient funds to enable hint tc centinue his studies for a time in Heidelberg College, at Tiffin. That he duly profited by the opportunities afforded him is evident from the fact that he began teaching school when seventeen years of age, and he continued his pedagogic work in Seneca county for twenty years during the winter months, while during the summers he devoted his attention to farm work. In 1861 he rented a farm, and continued agricultural operations under these conditions until 1868, when he located on his present farm, which he likewise rented, the same being then the property of his father-in-law. In 1872 he purchased the farm, which comprises one hundred and forty acres, and here he has made the best of improvements and placed the land under a high state of cultivation, his success being due to his energy, discrimination and progressive methods.

Mr. Shafer has ever maintained a lively interest in public affairs of a local nature and has been influential in his township. He is a stalwart advocate of the principies and policies of the Republican party, and fer nearly thirty years served as justice of the peace. while he was a trustee of Pleasant township for several years. He is a man of forceful individwality and marked intellectuality, and to him has heen given the most unequivocal confidence and esteem of the people cf the community. He is one of the prominent and enthusiastic members of Union Grange, No. 1078, Patrons of Husbandry, of which he is the master at the time of this writing, and his religious faith is that of the Reformed church, being a member at Glade Union, in which he has been an elder for many years.

On the 11th of April, 1865, Mr. Shafer was united in marriage to Miss Rachel McMeen, who was born in this county, being the daughter of William S. and Sophia (Stewart) McMeen, a pioneer farmer of this section of the state. Our subject and his estimable wife have four children, namely: Alice L., the wife of Frank J. Stinchcomb, superintendent successful teacher, having attended the Ada and Fostoria Normals and Heidelberg College; Nellie, the wife of Forrest Niswender, at Swander, Ohio; and Glenn, who is a student in Heidelberg College.

William S. McMeen was born in Scotland; married in Lycoming county, Pennsylvania, Sophia Stewart, a native of Ireland. They located on the present homestead of Mr. Shafer in 1835, then in the woods, and here Mrs. Shafer was born on the 7th of April, 1839. The father died at seventy-seven, the mother in her ninety-seventh year, having been born in 1799. Of their eleven children six reached maturity, and Mrs. Shafer is the only survivor. Two brothers, Robert and John, were killed in the war, Robert in the One Hundred and First Ohio A ohuritece Infantry, wounded at Murfreesboro and dying from the effects. John was in the cavalry and was killed in action. Two died in California, - William and James, - who went there during the gold excitement. The only sister, Sophia, married Emmet F. Drake and died at the age of thirty-five years. The parents were among the original members of the Presbyterian church in Tiffin.

Among the early settlers and representative farmers of Seneca county is James Stinchcomb, a veteran of the great civil war, who was born in Bloom township, this county, March 25, 1832, a son of John and Barbara (Turflinger) Stinchcomb. The father was a native of the state of Maryland, born in 1799, and when a child he was brought by his parents to Ohio, locating near Salem, in Fairfield county, where the son grew to years of maturity and was married. In 1827 he took up his residence in Seneca county, but two years previous to that time he had visited this section and had here entered eighty acres of land in Bloom township, on which he made his home until 1851. In that year he disposed of his possessions there and came to Clinton township, purchasing the one hundred and sixty acres of land which is now owned by Charles in death in 1854. His political support was given to the Whig party, and religiously he was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. By his marriage to Barbara Turflinger he became the father of ten children, four of whom are now living: Elizabeth A.; James; Henry, cf Odessa, Michigan; and John W., of Canton, Ohio.

James Stinchcomb of this review has spent his entire life in the county of his nativity, and to its public-school system he is indebted for his early educational privileges. Later he became a student in Heidelberg College, and at the age of twenty years he became a member of the teachers' profession, continuing as an instructor for twenty-two terms during the winter months, while in the summer seasons he was engaged at carpentering and farming. After his marriage he located on the farm belonging to his father-in-law, but still continued.the teacher's profession until the property passed into the possession of his wife, when he gave up that occupation, and since that time has devoted his entire time and attention to his agricultural interests, his farm being three miles north of Tiffin and containing one hundred and forty-seven acres. Through the careful direction of his business interests and by indefatigable industry he has acquired a handsome property and at the same time has so conformed to the ethics of business life that he has the unqualified confidence of all with whom he has had business transactions. During the civil war he entered the Union army on the 2d of May, 1864, becoming a member of Company B, One Hundred and Sixty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and for four months was on detailed duty at Washington. Previous to this time he had served as a member of Company F, Home Guards, and while a member of that body was called to Johnson's Island at the time of the Vallandigham alarm.

In 1870 Mr. Stinchcomb was united in marriage to Miss Matilda _E. Baker, who was born in the house in which our subject now resides. In February, 1871, this loving and devoted wife was called to the home beyond, and afterward Mr. Stinchcomb was married to her sister, Miss Anna S. Baker, and they have one son, Robert S. Mrs. Stinchcomb died August 2, 1890. The Prohibition party receives Mr. Stinchcomb's support and co-operation. He is well known for his uprightness and relia-

No man has taken keener or more decided interest in educational advancement than Mr. Stinchcomb. When in the profession he took a hand in securing better wages for teachers, enabling them to prepare better for that noblest of professions. He helped to organize the teachers of the county into a union, and a decided stand was taken that resulted in much better compensation to teachers, and, in consequence, much better schools throughout the county. He has pronounced views on the live questions of the day and is fearless and vigorous in his expression, touching the abuses incident to present systems of government and struggles for civilization.

Jacob Staib

Among the native sons of Seneca county who still maintain their residence within her borders is Jacob Staib, who resides in Seneca township, owning a valuable tract of land which each year returns to him a comfortable income. He was born in this township August 18, 1849, and is a son of Jacob Staib, a native of Wurtemberg, Germany. When the father had reached man's estate he sought a companion and helpmate for the journey of life and wooed and won Miss Sarah Haug, also a native of the same kingdom. They became the parents of six children: Caroline, residing on the home farm; Jacob, our subject; Nellie, the wife of Valentine Hoffman; Catherine, who married Carl Wittig and resides at Deep Water, Missouri; Elizabeth, also residing on the home farm; and Magdalena, who died in childhood. The father was a landscape gardener in Germany, continuing that pursuit until 1833, when, at eighteen years of age, he resolved to test the truth of the favorable reports which he had heard concerning the opportunities furnished by America in business circles. Accordingly he engaged passage on a sailing-vessel, - for it was prior to the era of steamboat navigation, - and after forty-two days spent on the briny deep, landed in New York. He made his way to Seneca county, Ohio, taking up his abode upon the farm which three years later was purchased by his parents, Jacob and Catherine (Kloepfer) Stab. The government still owned the greater part of the land and he entered a claim of one hundred and sixty acres, on which he built a log cabin with but one room. In that he kept bachelor's hall for two years, and in 1846 he was married, his wife coming with him from Germany, where he visited after being twelve years in America. For almost twenty years he continued residing upon his first farm, but in 1855 removed to the farm upon which his remaining days were passed and en which his death occurred September 20, 1901, when he had reached the age of eightysix years, seven months and seven days. His was a busy, useful life, :n consistent harmony with his professions as a member cf the Lutheran church. In politics he was a Democrat, always endorsing the principles of that party but never seeking office. His wife died in 1883. His father died at eighty-seven, while his mother survived to the age of ninety-seven years.

Jacob Staib, Jr., was a little lad of only six years when his parents removed to the farm upon which he is now living. The common schools afforded him his educational privileges, and as he was the only son he always remained at home in order to assist his father in the cultivation of the land. After he had attained to man's estate he took charge of the farm, erecting a second brick house. The farm now contains ninety-seven acres, upon which he resides, with twenty acres of the cid homestead which his father secured in its wild state more than two-thirds of a century ago.

On the 23d of October, 1879, Mr. Staib was united in marriage to Miss Alice Arbogast, who died May 16, 1885, and unto them were born four children. These are Nettie I., Lorenzo M., Victor J. and Alverda J. They hold membership in the Evangelical Association and are earnest Christian people whose well-spent lives commend them to the esteem of their fellow men. Mr. Staib exercises his right of franchise in suppert of the men and measures of the Democratic party and) has been honored with some local offices, serving as school director for many years, while

No word of blame could ever be attached to him in relation to the discharge of his official duties, for he was ever prompt, reliable and capable. His work in private life is equally well known and in his history there are many lessons well worthy of emulaticn.

Samuel Eakin

Throughout life this gentleman has been prominently identified with the agricultural interests of Seneca county, Ohio, and is to-day one of the leading farmers of Seneca township. He is one of the county's native sons and a representative of one of her honored old families, whose identification with her history dates from an early period in the development of the county.

Mr. Eakin was born on the farm where he now resides, and is a son of James Eakin, a native of Washington county, Virginia. His paternal grandfather, James Eakin, aided the colonies in their struggle for independence, serving for six years in the Continental army during the war of the Revelution. At an early day the father of our subject went to Ilinois, making the entire journey on horseback, then returned to Virginia, but soon after located in Delaware county, Ohio, whence he came to Seneca county in 1822. He entered three hundred and twenty acres of government land in Seneca township, and in the midst of the wilderness opened up the farm on which our subject now lives. His land, being the choicest of this region, was covered with a heavy growth of timber, principally poplars and walnuts, and the forests had to be cleared away before the land could be cultivated. Mr. Eakin's first home in this county was a rude cabin of one room, built of round logs and furnished in the most primitive style. With the early development and progress of this section of the state he was prominently identified, and on the roll of Seneca county's honored pioneers his name should be among the foremost. At one time he bought two hundred and eighty acres of land in Wyandot tiage with Miss Susan Anderson, and to them were born fourteen children, of whom eleven grew to manhood or womanhood, and nine are still living. The father died on his farm in Seneca county in 1879, at the age of eighty-seven years, and his wife passed away in 1886. They were people of prominence in the community where they had so long made their home, and were highly respected and! esteemed by all who knew them.

Samuel Eakin was reared in much the usual manner of farmer boys of his day, aiding in the arduous task of improving a new farm, and pursuing his literary studies in a log school-house. He obtained a good common-schocl education, which has well fitted him for the practical duties of life. With the exceptioy of six years he has spent his entire life on the farm where he was born, and is now the owner of one hundred and seventy-six acres of the old homestead bordering the Sandusky river. He carries on farming and stock-raising successfully, and in all his undertakings has displayed marked ability as a business man. By his ballot he supports the men and measures of the Democracy, but has never sought office, preferring to give his undivided attention to his farming interests. He is widely and favorably known and is recognized as one of representative men of his community.

Rev. Aaron Yambert

Among the old and honored residents of Seneca county, Ohio, who will long be recalled with feelings of true respect and affection, was one who for a period of twenty-seven consecutive years followed the example of his holy Master, "going about doing good." This was Rey. Aaron Yambert, who passed out of life on July 4, 1888.

The birth of Rev. Mr. Yambert was February 14, 1809, in Berks county, Pennsylvania, and he was a son of John H. and Sybilla (Glick) Yambert. In 1831 he accompanied his parents when they removed to Seneca county, Ohio. At the age of eighteen he learned the carpenter's trade and at this age also became converted to the truths of religion. He lived a life of morality and exerted a good influence on his fellow workmen during his young manhood, but he did not begin his ministerial labors until 1832. He was ordained in the Evangelical church and started out to his first pastorate in Pickaway county, Ohio. This was but the entrance into a ministerial life which continued with his years. He Lecame a vigorous preacher, thoroughly persuaded to the truths he taught, and he easily led others, and on all occasions, without fear or favor, was ready to uphold his belief.

In 1845 he settled with his family on what is known as the old Yambert homestead, where he became the owner of one hundred and sixty-two acres. As his family increased he felt it his duty to provide for their welfare, and this farm was carried on with care and made prcductive and valuable.

The marriage of Mir. Yambert was on February 10, 1839, to Miss Sarah Huffer, who was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, December 28, 1813. She was a most estimable woman, a devoted wife and tender mother, and for fifty-fcur years was a werthy example of Christian goodness. She died on February 27, 1887, at the age of seventy-three years. Mr. and Mrs. Yambert had a family of thirteen children, namely : Caroline, who married George Rosier, of Seneca township; Mary, who married Chauncy Boucher, of Williams county, Ohic; Lovina, who married Joseph Conklin, of Seneca township; Joshua J., who lives in \Woodford county, Illinois; Aaron H., who lives at Rising Sun, Ohio; Sarah C., who is the widow of George Ingman, of Mexico, Ohio; Susanna, who married J. \W. Boucher, of Williams county, Ohio; Sybilla, who resides on the cold homestead; and Julia, deceased, who was the wife of Daniel Ellenberger. Four children died in infancy.

Mr. Yambert, when he first started out in his ministerial work, made his visits from one part of the country to the other on horseback, and many were the stories he could relate of the lonely districts into which he brought spiritual comfort. This great state, which now teems with every industry and overflows with population, was at the time of the beginning of his work sparsely settled in many localities, Seneca county being still traversed by old Indian trails. He was one of the pioneer preachers and was well fitted by nature for his work. Although he enjoyed the fruitful rewards of agricultural industry, he turned his back on the comforts of home and braved storm and flood, in many instances, to comfort the dying or to help the living.

Mr. Yambert was sadly missed when advancing years kept him more closely at home. He was known as the friend of the poor, and probabiy the most characteristic qualities belonging to him were usefulness and industry. He was devoted to his work and was permitted to see many fruits of his faithful service. The old home, consisting of residence and sixty-two acres of valuable land, is owned by his daughter, Miss Sybilla Yambert.

Christians Roti

Christian Trott is well known as an enterprising and progressive citizen of Seneca township, where he is engaged in agricultural pursuits. his well-directed efforts bringing to him gratifying success in his undertakings. Switzerland has sent her proportion of citizens to the new world and they have become valued residents of the communities in which their lots have been cast. They have ever been a valiant people, strong of purpose, fearless in defense of what they believe to be right, industrious, persevering and reliable, and the characteristics of his race are found in Christian Trott.

He was born in the land of the Alps, April 25, 1848, and is a son of Frederick and Magdaline (Myers) Trott, in whose family were twelve children, - six sons and six daughters. The grandfather, Henry rot, was a French soldier with Napoleon's army when they crossed the Alps. When on the return trip he was taken ill and the army moved on, leaving him, but eventually he recovered, was married and settled in the village where he had been left by the military forces. He was a blacksmith by trade and carried on business in that line throughout his life. The father was a tinsmith by trade and in May, 1848, he sailed with his family for