Seneca Township (part 41 of 60)

Dr. Isaac Kagy, the immediate subject of this sketch, was reared on the farm where he now maintains his home, and his preliminary educational discipline was received in a subscription school one mile distant from the homestead residence. At the age of eighteen years he was matriculated in the Physio-Medical College in Cincinnati, in which he was graduated as a member of the class of 1849, and immediately after leaving that institution he located in Bloom township, in his native county, where he was engaged in the practice of his profession for eight months. During the winter of 1849-50 the Doctor was engaged in teaching in one of the district schools of the county, and thereafter he resumed the active practice of his profession, locating at Green Spring, where he remained for five years. At the expiration of that period he was compelled to abandon the work of his profession, his health having become much impaired, and from that time until 1861 he served as postmaster at Green Spring and was also the local station agent for the M. R.& L. E. Railroad. In the year mentioned he resigned these po- sitions and became auditor of Seneca county, retaining this incumbency for a period of four years, having been elected to this office in 1860. In 1863, having prosecuted a careful course of technical reading, the Doctor was admitted to the bar of the state, though he has never given much attention to work in the line of this profession. He has long been an active factor in political and governmental affairs in the county and has gained distinctive recognition as one of the leaders of the Democratic party in this section of the state, ever laboring earnestly and effectively to advance the party cause. In 1865 the Doctor was elected to represent his district in the Ohio legislature, in which he served for a term of two years, proving an able and valuable working member of the legislative body. For three years he was incumbent of the office of justice of the peace, and while serving as county auditor he was simultaneously a member of the city council and the board of education of Tiffin. In 1872 Dr. Kagy was appointed by the county commissioners to fill a vacancy in the office of county auditor, and in 1885, when occurred the death of the county treasurer, John Heabler, the Doctor was chosen to fill the vacancy and served in that capacity for sixteen months. Dr. Kagy's name is a familiar one in political circles in this section of the state, and, by reason of his marked intellectuality and superior ability, he is well fitted to aid in molding the policies of the state, to control general interests and direct public opinion, and he has been a potent factor in the councils of his party, serving as delegate to its various conventions in the county and staté and doing specially effective work in advocating its cause during the different campaigns and through timely and able contributions to the public press. From 1890 until 1900 Dr. Kagy served consecutively as a member of the state board of equalization, the number of whose members is the same as that of the state senate, and whose duties are in the equalization of the real-estate assessments in the state. From 1873 to 1875 he was one of the proprietors and editors of the Toledo Democrat, devoting the major portion of his time to editorial work in this connection, while from early years he had been a frequent and valued contributor to the local papers. When Major Armstrong was elected to the office of secretary of state he insisted upon the Doctor's taking up a line of editorial work on the Seneca Advertiser, and he did very efficient service in this capacity. He is a felicitous public speaker and his services have long been in requisition in this capacity, both in connection with political work and on various other occasions. The Doctor was one of the organizers of the Seneca County Agricultural Society, with which he continued to be identified until the organization became defunct. In 1857 he became a member of Green Spring Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, being later dimitted to Tiffin Lodge, of which he has been a prominent member for a score of years.

While Dr. Kagy has a deep respect for spiritual verities, he has advanced and pronounced views and is in thorough sympathy with the doctrines advanced by the late Colonel Robert G. Ingersoll. He was reared under the rigid discipline of the Baptist church, and such is the ' constituency of his vigorous mentality that he early began to be somewhat skeptical as to the consistency of orthodox religious tenets, and his reading and investigation eventually led him to become an avowed agnostic. His mind is intrinsically logical and he demands reasons, not dogmatic statements, and thus he secured little satisfaction in attempting to reconcile religious doctrines with scientific truths. He has been an extensive and careful reader, has marked powers of assimilation, and his analytical and logical mind has brought to him definite convictions, which he is ever able to effectively defend.

In 1867 the Doctor retired to the old Kagy homestead, in Eden township, and to this he has since added until he now has a fine landed estate of two hundred and twenty-five acres. He has made this his home for many years, and save for intervals when official or business duties demanded his residence elsewhere, has continuously given his persona] supervision to the cultivation of the farm and to the raising of a highgrade of live stock, having been very successful in both departments of his farming enterprise. The Doctor is one of the county's most progressive and public-spirited citizens, and he has so ordered his life as to command unequivocal confidence and esteem in the county where he has passed practically his entire life.

Centennial Biographical History. Soi

On the 29th of March, 1849, Dr. Kagy was united in marriage to Miss Nancy Taylor Martin, who was born in Perry county, Ohio, being the daughter of Samuel S. and Mary (McCormick) Martin. Three children have been born of this union, namely: Samuel T., who died in infancy; Mary C., who is the wife of Thomas J. Frazier, of Zanesville;

John W. Spraggins

John W. Spraggins, general superintendent of the National Machinery Company, of Tiffin, Ohio, was born in Cambridgeshire, England, January 30, 1861. When eight years old he accompanied his parents, Isaac and Mary Ann (Granger) Spraggins, to America. In England the elder Mr. Spraggins was employed as a gamekeeper, but after locating in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1868, he became connected with the firm of Scofield' & Wilson, which firm were the pioneers in the business which has developed into the gigantic corporation now known as the Standard Oil Company. Mr. Spraggins was a faithful employe and a hard-working man until his death, which took place at the age of forty-nine years.

The mother of Mr. Spraggins, of this sketch, died at the age of fifty years, as the result of a street-car accident. The children who sur. vived infancy were as follows: Anna, who died eariy; John W., who is the subject of this biography; Alice, who married Wiliiam Farrel, ot Shelby, Ohio; Isaac, who is a boiler-maker for the Standard Oil Company in Cleveland; Nellie, living at Camden, New Jersey; and Anna. who is the wife of John Little, a resident of Cleveland, who has an 1nterest in the Shelby Tube Works.

The school life of our subject closed at the age of nine years, when he had mastered the mysteries of the Third Reader. Although but a lad his growing needs had to be supplied by his own labor, and he accepted a position in a brick-yard in Cleveland, remaining there until he was made a messenger bey in the service of the Standard Oil Company. His father was long an employe, and was the inventor of the steam still now in use by this company. The youth continued in this situation for several years and then became a clerk in a shoe store in Cleveland, all the time gaining a firmer hold on the respect and in the esteem of those with whom he was associated. In 1878 he entered upon an apprenticeship in Cleveland in the trade of machinist, and remained three years, becoming a skilled workman, his capacity and general character causing his engagement with the National Machinery Company when it removed its plant from Cleveland to Tiffin. This was on January 12, 1883, the business then being one of small proportions, but before the roof was on the new factory the confidence of his employers was shown to Mr. Spraggins by his selection by them as foreman, which position he most efficiently filled for the succeeding six years. In 1895 he was made general superintendent, and has filled this responsible position ever since.

The National Machinery Company is a large industrial plant, its capitalization being three hundred thousand dollars, and its force of workmen reaching some two hundred and sixty skilled mechanics, its output being shipped all over the United States and' Europe. This business is the manufacturing of machinery for the making of wire nails, nuts and bolts and special machinery, the volume of trade having increased since its location in Tiffin to a wonderful extent.

Mr. Spraggins has followed the fortunes of this company from the bottom and much of its success must be regarded as a result of his efficient superintendence. In marked degree he possesses just the qualities required in such a position, and he enjoys not only the confidence and esteem of his employers but also the respect and obedience of those under his supervision.

On January 19, 1882, Mr. Spraggins was united in marriage to Miss Isabella McCoy, of Cleveland, and a family of three children has been born to them, namely: Charles A., who learned the machinis< trade, and who has just finished a business course in Heidelberg University; and Linnie and William H., Jr., both of whom are at home.

member of the Republican party and has many friends in its ranks, although he has not consented to hold office. Fraternally his connection is with the B. P. O. E., Lodge No. 94, of Tiffin; Pickwick Lodge, No. 175, Knights of Pythias; Uniform Rank, No. 50; the Knights of the Maccabees, and the United Workmen. His family are attendants of the Presbyterian church of this city, where they are held in esteem.

It can not be otherwise than inspiring to consider a career like that of Mr. Spraggins and to note its results and rewards. His early environment was shorn of almost every worldly advantage, but through sheer force of character he has surmounted the innumerable obstacles in his path and has won prominence and competency and the respect and affection of a large ircle of friends.

Frederick L. Smeltz

As a representative of one of the pioneer families of Seneca county and as one who has here passed his entire life, it is certainly consistent that we enter in this work a review of the career of Mr. Smeltz, who has long been identified with the agricultural and stock-growing interests of the county, having a fine estate in Venice township and being honored as one of its representative men. He is a native of the township in which he now maintains his home, having been born on the old pioneer homestead on the 17th of July, 1852, the son of Martin and Christianna (Lebold) Smeltz, who became the parents of ten children, of whom five survive, namely: Conrad, a resident of Venice township: Franklin, whose home is in Caldwell county, Missouri; Frederick L., the subject of this sketch; Maria, the wife of John West, of Bloomville, and Sophia, the wife of Levi Hillis, of the old homestead.

Martin Smeltz was a native of Darmstadt, Germany, and was a son of Peter Smeltz, who emigrated thence to Pennsylvania when Martin was a lad of seven years. Peter Simeltz afterward removed to Carroll county, Ohio, where he became a pioneer farmer and where he passed the remainder of his life. Martin Smeltz, father of our subject, came to Seneca county while still a single man and here entered claim to a tract of three hundred and sixty acres of heavily timbered land in Venice township. Here he erected a log cabin and made ready to bring his family to the new home. Before starting on his return journey to Carroll county he placed his cooking utensils beneath the split-plank floor of his little cabin, and while on his way he encountered a family named Delaney, to whom he gave information as to the point where be had erected his house, and the family were given permission to occupy the same during the winter. Mr. Smeltz returned with his wife, whom he had married in Tuscarawas county in the meantime, and here he developed a good farm, becoming one of the honored and successful farmers of this section. His wife died about the year 1855, and he subsequently married a Miss Mary Lenhardt, there being no issue of this union. Martin Smeltz lived to attain the venerable age of seventy-two years, his death occurring in Caroline in the year 188o.

Frederick L. Smeltz, to whom this sketch is dedicated, was reared on the parental homestead and received such educational advantages as were afforded in the public schools maintained in this locality in the days of his youth, while he early began to lend: his assistance in the work of the farm. At the age of eighteen years he assumed charge of the home place and there continued to make his home for several years farther. He was married in the fall of 1878 and about a year later he removed to his present home farm at Caroline, which was then owned by his father-in-law and which he purchased in 1884. In 1880 he purchased a tract of eighty acres adjoining this farm, opposite his present home. In 1897 Mr. Smeltz purchased fifty-three acres contiguous on the south, and in addition to this his wife owns about eighty acres additional ia the township, so that the aggregate area of the landed estate is two hundred and forty acres. For the last few years our subject has been to a large degree retired from the active work of the farm, having his land cultivated by others on shares. He has one of the finest and most modern farm residences in the county, erected in 1880-1, and the family esteem) in his native county and is known as an able business man and as one whose probity is above question. Mr. Smeltz fully appreciates the charms and broadening influence of travel, and has visited nearly all the states of the Union. In politics he gives his allegiance to the Republican party, taking a lively interest in all that concerns the general welfare of the community and lending his aid and influence for ail worthy objects. His religious faith is that of the Protestant Methodist church, of which his wife and children are devoted adherents.

On the Ist of October, 1878, Mr. Smeltz was united in marriage to Miss Christianna M. Lebold, who was born in Venice township, the daughter of Frederick and Rachel (McKibben) Lebold, one of the influential pioneer citizens of this locality, where he was engaged in agricultural pursuits until the time of his death, at sixty-eight. Frederick Lebold was born in Wittemberg, Germany, a son of Conrad and Christianna (Eichenhofer) Lebold, and when one year old was brought to Tuscarawas county, Ohio, and at thirteen to Venice township, Seneca county. He was married at twenty-seven to Rachel McKibben, who was born in Pennsylvania and brought to Seneca county when four years old, and who is still living at the old home at Caroline, aged seyenty-three. Mrs. Smeltz was the only child to reach maturity and she was born and reared in this vicinity.

Our subject and his wife have two children, - Lawson F. and Inez A., - both being popular young people and taking an active part in the social affairs of the community where they have been reared and educated.

William Cramer

Honored and respected by all, William Cramer was for many years identified with the agricultural interests of Seneca county, Ohio, but he is now living retired at his pleasant home in Fostoria. He was born in York county, Pennsylvania, March 30, 1831, a son of John and Catherine (Sloat) Cramer. His father, also a native of that county, was born on the 25th of September, 1794. He was there married, and all of his children were born in the Keystone state. About 1836 he came with his family to Seneca county, Ohio, locating in Loudon township, where he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land on the present site of the Cramer sawmill. There he also erected a sawmill, which was conducted by water power until about 1840, but it was in operation only about three months during the year. In this locality Mr. Cramer passed to his final reward on the 29th of June, 1859. Unto this worthy couple were born ten children, eight of whom still survive, namely: Daniel, who now makes his home with our subject; Henry, a resident of Fostoria ; John, of Van Wert, Ohio; Emanuel, a resident of Ionia county, Michigan; Adam. also of Fostoria; William, of this review; Sophia, the widow of Peter Wickerham and a resident of Big Spring township, Seneca county; and Sarah, the wife of Augustus Elliott, of Ionia county, Michigan. Three of the children have now reached the eightieth milestone on the journey of life, and the youngest has passed the age of sixtyfive years.

William Cramer, our subject, was reared amid the refining inflfluences of a cultured home, and the educational privileges which he enjoyed in his youth were those afforded by the common schools. At the age of twenty-four vears and in company with his brother Daniel, he erected a steam sawmill on the site of his father's old mill, the latter having fallen into decay, but this property was destroyed by fire in 1860, and in the same year, in company with his brother-in-law, Morgan Snyder, Mr. Cramer erected the fine mill property which is still standing. After his father's death he acquired eighty acres of the old homestead, which he conducted in connection with his milling business, and for many years he also operated a threshing machine. In 1894, however, he sold his possessions to his son Daniel H., and removed to the village of Fostoria, where he is now living a retired life, enjoying the fruits of former toil.

On the 19th of October, 1854, Mr. Cramer was united in marriage to Miss Charlotte Snyder, a native of Mahoning county, Ohio, and the daughter of Abraham and Susannah (Smith) Snyder. The latter died of typhoid fever at Nashville, Tennessee, July 23, 1864, while nobly serv- ing his country in the Civil war. This union has been blessed with ten children, nine of whom are still living: Daniel H.; William A., a traveling salesman of Fostoria; Jennie, the wife of Isaac Stultz, of Jackson township, Seneca county; Morgan E., a member of the Fostoria fire department; John J., an electrician of Fostoria; Nettie A., the wife of John Hazen, also of Fostoria; Anna S., the wife of Edward Seeman, of Dunkirk, Indiana; Allie A., a saleslady; and Fred V., also an electrician, at home.

The Republican party receives Mr. Cramer's hearty support and co-operation, and for one term he has served as a justice of the peace. His religious preference is indicated by his connection with the Methodist Episcopal church, of which he is an honored and esteemed member and for many years has served as its class-leader. Throughout his business career he was emphatically a man of enterprise, positive character, indomitable energy and liberal views, and is thoroughly identified in feeling with the growth and prosperity of the county which has so

Dantel Williams

How rapidly time is thinning the ranks of the brave boys in blue who went forth in defense of the nation's integrity during the dark and stormy epoch of the Civil war is evident to even the superficial observer, and the silvered heads of those who appear in the ranks of the veterans at the various encampments of the Grand Army of the Republic show whither the line of march is tending. The younger generation may well look in admiration and honor upon these valiant sons of the republic who saved to the world a grand and united country, and though time has thrown its beneficent influence over the story of the great conflict and the animosities of the past have been softened and chastened, yet never can there be aught but appreciation of the services of the men who followed the stars and stripes on the sanguinary battle fields of the south. One of the hcnored veterans of the war of the Rebellion is the subject of this brief tribute, whose home has been in Seneca county during the entire period of his life and who is to-day numbered among the successful farmers of this section of the state.

Mr. Williams was born on a farm in Jackson township, this county, on the rst of May, 1842, being one of the eight children of John and Barbara Williams and one of the five who are living at the present time. Three of the sons went forth in defense of the Union during the war of the Rebellion, and one of the number sacrificed his life on the altar of his country. John Williams, who is now a resident of Michigan, was in the one hundred days' service, and David, who was a member cf Company E, Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, enlisted at the age of eighteen years and was so seriously wounded in the battle of Stone River that he died from his injuries, passing away at Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The subject of this sketch was reared on the old homestead, securing his early educational training in the district schools, and he was but twenty years of age when he took up arms in defense of an imperiled Union, enlisting on the 13th of September, 1862, as a private in Company E, Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, of which his brother David was a member, as has been noted. The first engagement of importance in which our subject took part was that at Stone River, and thereafter he was an active participant in many of the most memorable conflicts incidental to the great struggle for the perpetuation of the Union, including the battles of Liberty Gap, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, the Atlanta campaign in its entireity, the battle of Nashville and the engagement at Pickett's Mills, where it is evident that he was in the thick of the fray, since sixteen bullets passed through his clothes. Mr. Williams rendered valiant service and remained in the ranks until victory crowned the Union arms, being honorably discharged in June, 186s, and being mustered out at Nashville. General Rosecrans established a roll of honor of those soldiers who had become distinguished, and Private Daniel Williams was one of two named from Company E, and was distinguished by wearing a special ribbon. After the demoralization of the forces during the battle of Stone River but six privates of his com-

After his discharge Mr. Williams returned to Jackson township and resumed his identification with agriculture. He has made this township his home during his entire life and he took up his residence on his present well improved farm in 1893, having ninety acres and devoting his attention to general farming. He is highly honored in the community, is a Republican in his political proclivities and keeps in touch with his old comrades in arms by retaining membership in the Grand Army of the Republic, being affiliated with Norris Post, at Fostoria, of which he is a popular member. His religious faith is that of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which both he and his wife are devoted adherents.

On the 24th of January, 1867, Mr. Williams was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Smith, who was born in Stark county, the daughter of Philip Smith, and they became the parents of four children, namely: Martha E., the widow of Ernest M. Solomon and now residing with her parents; she has one son, Hubert L.; Myrtie A. became the wife of Daniel Fell and died in this county at the age of twenty-six years; Ella is the wife of Frank Harrison, of Jackson township, and has two sons. - Roy W. and Raiph; and John, the youngest of our subject's children, is associated with his father in the operation of the farm.

Charles R. Long, the leading liveryman of Fostoria, was born in Hancock county, Ohio, February 14, 1872, a son of John W. and Margaret (Ricketts) Long. The father also was born in that county, in 1851. His mother died when he was a child and he was afterward reared in the home of John Ricketts. When twenty years of age he was united in marriage to Margaret Ricketts, the niece of John Ricketts, also a native of the same county, and after their marriage they purchased a kirk, Hardin county, Ohio, where he embarked in the livery business and also engaged in the sale of buggies, thus continuing until 1895, and during that time he was very successful, having sold over fifteen hundred buggies in that village alone. In the latter year he engaged in the same line of trade in Findlay, but in 1901 he sold his livery business and has since given his attention to the supervision of his farm of four hundred and twenty-eight acres in Hardin county, though residing in Findlay. He gives his political support to the Republican party, and in his social relations is a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Long was blessed with nine children, six now living, namely: Charles R., the subject of this review; James, engaged in the livery business in Findlay; Harvey, in the same line of trade in Napoleon, this state; Raleigh, who is engaged in business with his brother James in Findlay ; Robert, who is in the employ with our subject; and Hazel, at home. Charles R. Long is indebted to the common schools of his native locality for the educational privileges which he enjoyed in his early youth, and afterward he became a student in the Ohio Normal University at Ada, Ohio. From 1895 until 1896 he was engaged in the livery business with his father, but in that year the latter sold his interest to George Rummel, which relationship was maintained through the succeeding year, Mr. Long then selling his interest in order to remove to Rising Sun and engage in the same line of trade. For two years he was actively identified with the business interests of that city, but desiring a brcader field for his operations he then, in 1899, took up his abode in Carey, conducting a successful livery business in that city until September, 1901. That month witnessed his arrival in Fostoria, where he soon afterward purchased the interests of Russell E. Smith, one of the oldest and best known liverymen in this locality. He has a thoroughly equipped livery establishment, keeping twenty-five of the best roadsters, with a full complement of buggies, surreys, coaches, etc. Mr. Long has attained prominence in the business circles of Seneca county, while in private life no man in the community has more friends than he, which

The marriage of our subject was celebrated on the 25th of August, 1897, when Miss Nellie Babcock, a native of Akron, Ohio, became his wife. They have two children, - Joe and Franklin. Mr. Long gives his political support to the Republican party, and his social connection is with Carev Lodge, No. 393, K. of P.

Melchior Starck

This well known farmer of Seneca county, Ohio, whose home is in Liberty township, was born in Germany in 1827, and is a son of Melchior and Margaret Starck. Reared and educated in his native land, he at length determined to try his fortune in the new world, and in 1848 sailed for America. After a long and tedious voyage of fiftyseven days he landed in Quebec, and proceeded at once to Seneca county, Ohio. He located in Liberty township, on the farm where he has since lived with the exception of five years. On coming to this country he was accompanied by his parents, but the father died about five months after his arrival here. In his family were six children, of whom our subject is the oldest.

In the midst of the forest Mr. Starck cleared and improved a farm, and built thereon a Jog cabin with a huge fireplace at one end. In this primitive home several years were pleasantly passed, but it has long since been replaced by a more commodious and pretentious brick dwelling. In his home farm he now has one hundred! and sixty acres, and also owns another tract of eighty acres, making in all two hundred and forty acres, which he has placed under a high state of cultivation. He is a thorough and skillful farmer and in his labors has met with most excellent success

During the dark days of the Cevil war Mr. Starck entered the service of his adopted country, enlisting in June, 1864, as a private in Company

C, One Hundred and Twenty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and remained at the front until hostilities ceased, repeatedly taking part in skirmishes and battles, including Winchester, Cedar Creek and Petersburg, where he was wounded, receiving a bullet through his leg. Politically he is a stanch supporter of the Democratic party and its principles, and religiously is a communicant of Liberty Catholic church. He is widely and favorably known in the community where he has so long made his home, and weli merits the high regard in which he is uniformly

Amos Decker was born in Thompson township, Seneca county, on the old Decker homestead which he now owns, his natal day being the t1th of November, 1839. His father, Jacob Decker, was born in Union county, Pennsylvania, in 1809, and was a son of John Decker, who emigrated with his familv to Wayne county, Ohio, taking up his abode there in 1816. 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, who 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 ef 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 the 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.

Success

The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Decker was celebrated October 20, 1864, and afterward he took charge of the old home farm. 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 to successful 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 well 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 fts 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 alcne 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

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

'acre 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. Andrew'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 given 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 offer. 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 forty 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 cf 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.

Mr. Cook was united in marriage to Miss Mary Tomey, and they have four children living, - John, Otto, Ina and Lee. The daughter is the wife of George Bowersocks, and the sons are still at home. From his boyhood days Mr. Cook has held membership in the Evangelical 'church, with which he is still identified, and his Christian principles have guided his life. His history, if written in detail, would form ay 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 cften 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 21st 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 town. ship, 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 fiv~ 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

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-seven 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 born 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. lt 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 efforts 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 cuunty 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, the 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 years of age.

George H. Park and his brother, thus deprived of a mother's care, went 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 general 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 farm 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.

Isaag Rower

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 progressive 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 fimiy were twelve children, six sons and six daughters. Of this num-

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 nome 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 cccurred 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 vears 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 work 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 carry on 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, mother having passed away in 1847. In 1849 Mr. Royer was again married, his secorid 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.

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

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 whom 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

David Holmes was born on a farm in Venice township, Seneca county, Ohio, on the 12th 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 Lafayette 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,

On the 21st 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 shown 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. ©

It is an indication of the opportunities and advantages which Sen- éca 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 js 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 1821 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 was established, the city then being but a hamlet containing a few pioneer homes. Mr. Feasel, however, was pleased with the appearance and prospects of Seneca county and in 1829, accompanied by his wite 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. His wife passed away at the age of eighty-four years. They were members of the United Brethren church and weve 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 with his brother John he would take jobs of clearing new 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 many 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 made 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 Della, 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 Cleveland, 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 owns one hundred and sixty-five acres of good land, and no better improvemeuts can be found in the township than are upon his place. He has an at- tractive residence, substantial barns 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 home 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 born in Jackson township, Seneca county, on the 25th of November, 1852, a son of Jeremiah and Lucy A. (Mce- Doughel) Pankhurst. The father was born 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 county, 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 to 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 born unto this union, but only two are now living, - Charles T., who is attending the Western Reserve Medical College, of Cleveland, 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 throughout 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 11th of Decem- ber, 1857. His parents were Michael and Barbara (Vogelsang) Whitman, 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-making shop. At the outbreak of the Civil war he put aside all personal considerations and nobly offered his services 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 duties 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 he 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 home 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.

Elipam 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 i eee e 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 life's 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 fcllowed. 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. In early manhood he entered upon his business career without capital, and, placing his dependence solely upon 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 sun: of James and Eleanor (Musgrove) Naylor, both of whom 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 schocls 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 ihen 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 opened a hardware store under the firm 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 successfully for a number of years, when he sold his store. Under his management, however, it grew to be 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 when he was enabled to command an excellent income he made judicious and extensive investments tivity in Tiffn. 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 11th of December, 1849, Mr. Naylor 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, born in 1851, died in 1853, and Frank, who was born 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 secure 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 manv > 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 warim and helpful friend, ever ready to promote her welfare along the lines of substantial progress and improvement. For fiftyfour years he has been identified with 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 in 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 policy and Was a warm supporter cf the Union. He holds membership in the Methedist Episcopal church and ccntributes most liberally to its support. When the new brick house of worship was erected he gave most lib 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 honored 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

Through the years of his manhood Attica has numbered Lester Sutton among 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 born six children, of whom three are living: Isaac, who resided until recently near Owosso, Michigan, and died May 19, 1902; William, also a resident of Michigan; and Margaret, 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 several 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 being 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 Methodist Protestant church.

Under the parental roof 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 unti! 1866, when he was admitted to the bar. A short time previously he had removed 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.

-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 fathers 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 scught 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 1s 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.