Seneca Township (part 45 of 60)

The first marriage of Captain Chamberlin was solemnized on June 6, 1861, to Miss Mary Cowles, who died May 13, 1867. A daughter, Mary, was born to this marriage and died in girlhood. On November 2, 1870, Captain Chamberlin was married to Miss Livonia R. Buell, who with one son, John W., now in young manhood, survives him. Mrs. Chamberlin was born in Wyandot county, Ohio, a daughter of Hon. William Myron and Laura P. (Starr) Buell, the former of whom was a native of Delaware county, Ohio, and the latter of New Hartford, Connecticut. Mr. Buell became a prominent merchant and grain-dealer at Crawfordsville and Carey, Ohio, and was a captain of militia in 1840, and went to California in 1852. In his political affiliations he was a Democrat, and at one time was a member of the California legislature. His death occurred in that state, when he was aged about fifty-nine years. The mother of Mrs. Chamberlin had an ancestral line reaching to the Mayflower, being a lineal descendant of Elder William Brewster, who came on that historic vessel in 1620, its first voyage to America. Her death cccurred in 1849, when she had attained her thirty-seventh year. She had been the faithful and tender mother of six children, Mrs. Chamberlin being eight years old at the time of her decease. The latter was educated at Carey, Ohio, and spent several years in teaching. She now resides in the beautiful home left by her husband on Sycamore street in Tiffin, and is an active member of the Methodist church. Her son John is a student at the Case School of Applied Science in Cleveland.

Hakmon Hh. -Cook

The life history of him whose name introduces this review is closely identified with the history of Seneca county, which has been his home for many years. His business career was begun in this county, and throughout the years which have since come and gone he has been closely allied with its interests and upbuilding. His life has been one of untiring activity and has been crowned with a degree of success attained by comparatively few. He is of the highest type of business men, and none more than he deserves a fitting recognition among those whose enterprise and abilities have enabled them to climb to the topmost round of the ladder.

Harmon H. Cook was born in Prussia, Germany, January 14, 1849, a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Determan) Cook. The name was originally spelled Koch, but the present generation have adopted the English spelling of Cook. The father was also born in Prussia, his birth occurring in 1820, and he was there reared and married. While residing in his native land he was principally engaged in the manufacture of wooden shoes.

In 1854, with his wife and four children, he left his little home across the sea and came to America, locating in Adams township, Seneca county, Ohio. He was then in poor circumstances, and was enabled to make the journey here only through the assistance of his wife's brothers, - John H. and Harmon Determan, who were among the earliest pioneers of Adams township. There the father of our subject worked by the day at clearing land and at whatever honorable occupaticn presented itself, and from his savings he was soon enabled to purchase one hundred and thirty acres of land. This he was able to free from all indebtedness in a few years, and as the years passed by he added to his possessions until he owned five hundred acres of well improved and valuable land. His life's labors were ended in death in 1894, at the age of _seventy-two years. His wife's brothers, John H. and Harmon Determan, both began life in this country poor boys, and they, too, became wealthy. The sons and grandsons of these are all now well situated in life, and thus the Cook and Determan families are influential ones in this portion of the state. Henry Cook was a stanch Democrat in his political views and was an active worker in the Reformed church. His wife survived his death but two weeks, when she, too, passed away, dying at the age of sixty-eight years. This worthy couple became the' parents of nine children, all of whom still survive, namely: Catherine, the wife of Melchior Kechly, of Nebraska; Harmon H., the subject of this review; Henry, a prominent farmer of Reed township; Frederick, who makes his home in Scipio township; Louis, also of that township; Eliza, the wife of Wilson Cole, of Reed township; John, a prominent agriculturist of Scipio township; Anna, the wife of Robert Stroub, also of Scipio township; and Daniel, of Thompson township, Seneca county.

Harmon H. Cook is indebted to the common schools of the neighborhood for the educational advantages which he enjoyed, but these, however, were extremely limited, as he was the eldest son of the family and much of the burden of the farm, work fell on his young shoulders. At the age of twenty-one years he left his parents' home and began the active battle of life for himself, working as a farm hand for the following two years. He then continued agricultural pursuits as a renter, and two years after his marriage he purchased ninety-six acres and a fraction over, a part of his present home, while about six years later he increased the boundaries of his possessions by purchasing forty-eight acres adjoining, thus making his farm one of one hundred and forty-five acres. When he first purchased his land he assumed an indebtedness of four thousand dollars, but industry and economy, combined with excellent management and sound business judgment, soon reduced the amount; but when his second farm was purchased the debt was again increased to four thousand dollars. However, this-he was enabled to pay off through the same means, and in 1895, taking advantage of the depression in prices, he purchased one hundred and forty-six acres in Huron county,

Ohio, which is a valuable property. During the present year, 1902, he became the owner of a tract of one hundred and sixty acres in Scipio - township, Seneca county, and he also owns a farm of forty acres in Nebraska, thus making him the possessor of four hundred and ninety-one acres. His business career furnishes a splendid example of what may be accomplished through determined purpose, laudable ambition and well directed effort, for the position that he has attained in life has been won entirely through his own endeavors.

In 1875 Mr. Cook was united in marriage to Miss Mahala Seiple, a native of Seneca county and a daughter of John Seiple, now deceased. To this union six children have been born, but the second child, Edson, died at thirteen years of age, as the result of an accident. Those living are: Lillie, Amana, Vernon, Lorena and Roy, all at home. Mr. Cook gives a stanch support to the Democratic party, but has never been an office-seeker, preferring to give his undivided attention to his extensive business interests. He is a worthy member of the Reformed church.

Among the highly steemed citizens of Tiffin, Ohio, no one is more universally respected by all classes than is Rev. Father John P. Puetz, rector of St. Joseph's Catholic church. He came here in 1885 and his faithful service has been given for years to this parish, where he has had the satisfaction of seeing abundant blessing bestowed upon it.

Father Puetz was born on German soil, in a Rheinish province, December 20, 1833. His parents were John P. and Mary Ann (Schrid) Puetz, both of whom were born, reared and married in the same proyince. They were respected and industrious farming people, who left their native land to find better opportunities for their children in the United States. In 1846, when their son John was thirteen years of age, they emigrated from Germany to Ridgeville township, Lorain county, Ohio, where they continued an agricultural life until the death of Mr. Puetz, at the age of fifty-four. His widow survived until in her seventy-

The early life of the future priest was similar to that of other lads of his age, who grow up on a farm and attend the district schools, although from early youth a serious mind had disclosed the trend of his inclinations. This induced his parents to send him, at the age of eighteen, to be instructed in St. Mary's Seminary and College, at Cleveland, where he remained for five years under the scholarly influence of noted teachers who thoroughly prepared him for entrance upon the special study of theology. Due progress was made in this department and in 1865 he was ordained to the priesthood, in Cleveland, by Rt. Rev. Bishop Rappe.

Succeeding his ordination the young priest was placed in charge of the parish and church at Galion, Crawford county, Ohio, the results of his five years' pastorate there being the erection of a school-house, the extension of a large and interested congregation and an impulse given to the religious work of the community, which has ever since borne fruits. Father Puetz then went to Sherman, Huron county, Ohio, where he remained for three years, busily engaged in building up and strengthening the religious institutions of his church. From there he was transferred to Milan, Erie county. Father Puetz came to that parish when it was in sore need of help, and there he faithfully labored for eleven years, serving three churches, building a flourishing parochial school and leaving the church in a prosperous financial condition.

These unremitting labors, however, had told upon his health, and the succeeding eighteen months were spent in rest in Europe, where he devoted much time to visiting the venerable and historic landmarks of his church. On June 15, 1885, he and his brother, Rev. Martin Puetz, came to Tiffin, and together assumed the pastorate of St. Joseph's. For twelve years they labored as mutual coadjutants, this association being broken only by the death of Father Martin, at Los Angeles, California, on January 21, 1897, the immediate cause being an affection of the lungs. Much has been accomplished in the seventeen years since Father Puetz came to this congregation. The interior work of the church ,has been renewed, a steam-heating apparatus installed and paintings and statuary appropriately placed. There is seating capacity for one thousand persons. The congregation numbers about five hundred families. The rectory, a magnificent structure, was erected in 1887, at a cost of nine thousand dollars. A commodious school-house, which accommodates four hundred and sixty pupils, was erected in 1895, and the school is in charge of the Ursuline Sisters. The older boys are under the management of lay brethren. There are two libraries in the school, free to young people. The management of so large a parish and the cares attendant upon it keep Father Puetz a busy man, although he is never too much otherwise occupied to take an interest in all outside matters looking toward the prosperity of this community. A scholar, he is widely read in various fields of literature; and he is an earnest advocate of those refining and uplifting influences that make for human elevation, He counts his friends in Tiffin by the score, as they are not, by any means, confined to the limits of his own congregation, his quiet, orderly, useful life having gained for him the esteem of all with whom he has been brought in contact.

It was in the years 1873-4 that he visited Europe. May 1, 1873, he left home and visited Glasgow, Scotland, and Edinburg and Castle Mary Queen of Scots; spent three days in London in general sight-seeing; two days in Paris; traveled south through France to the Pyrenees, visiting Lourdes, famous for the cures by "Our Lady of Lourdes;" east to Marseilles, by steamer on the Mediterranean sea to Leghorn, Italy, Genoa, the birthplace of Columbus, Valencia and Naples; ascended Mount Vesuvius to the crater, breathing its sulphurous fumes; visited Pompeii, Rome, and saw the Pope, Pius IX; visited the great art galleries at Rome, and St. Peter's church, one of the seven wonders of the world; also the catacombs, Venice and Milan; thence by stage to Switzerland; where he remained from August, 1873, to May, 1874; visited Carlsbad, Bohemia, and through Germany to his birthplace in Freiberg, where he found but two persons whom he knew, and finally back to London and Liverpool, and thence by the White Star line to America, reaching New York in October.

riculum and was ordained by Bishop Rappe two years previously to his brother. He was stationed at Monroeville, Huron county, this state, twenty-one years, erecting there a new and beautiful church and having a large congregation. Joining his brother, he came to Tiffin.

He devoted special attention to Sicilian music and had one of the finest choirs at Monroeville; and here in Tiffin he developed the same idea, supplementing the operatic style, with the happy result of forming as fine a choir at St. Joseph's church as could be found in the diocese. This place has developed a fine touch of art in the music of the church, there being now about twenty-five voices in the choir. His interest in the church was great and he was rigorous in his efforts to have the musical services imposing. He was well liked by all regardless of church relations. :

Failing health led him to resort to Los Angeles, California, which place he had barely reached when his useful life ended in death. His body was brought back to his old home here and great honor was paid him at the funeral.

When it is stated that the father of the subject of this sketch was a native son of the Buckeye state it will be evident in a prima facie way that he was a representative of one of the early pioneer families of this section of the Union, while it was also his to be numbered among those sterling pioneers of Seneca county who laid broad and deep the foundations of the present prosperity and advanced position of the county. Coming here in an early day he took part in subduing the wild land and reclaiming it for cultivation, and during the long course of a half ceiitury he was numbered among the honored and influential citizens of the county. Here also was born the subject of this review, and he has ably sustained the high reputation achieved by his sire, and is one of the leading farmers and stock-growers of Loudon township, where he has a finely improved landed estate and where he has practically passed his entire life, setting at naught the old adage, in its wider application, that

"a prophet is not without honor save in his own country," for he commands the confidence and esteem of the people of the community' in which he was born and reared and in which he has directed his efforts to so goodly ends. He well merits representation in this work.

Mr. Ricketts was born on the old homestead farm in Loudon township, Seneca county, Ohio, on the gth of September, 1837, being a son of John and Dorcas (Shippy) Ricketts, of whose four children three are living, namely: Lorenzo D., our subject; Lydia, who makes her home with him; and Perry, who is also a successful farmer of this township. John Ricketts was born in Fairfield county, Ohio, in the last year of the eighteenth century, 1800, and was there reared under the influences of pioneer life, receiving such educational advantages as were implied in a somewhat desultory attendance in the primitive schools of the day, these being maintained mostly on the subscription plan, while the 'temples of learning' were rude log cabins, equipped with puncheon floors and slab benches. In 1828 he left his native county and came to Seneca county, which was at that time practically a virgin forest, and here he Was again to renew his pioneer experiences and to endure those arduous labors and encounter those vicissitudes which are ever the lot of the one who thus aids in the initial stages of the march of progress as the star of empire takes its way to the west. Upon his arrival he entered claim to a tract of eighty acres of wild land in Loudon township, and here erected a log house, to which he removed his family in the foflowing year. Later he took up an additional forty acres and he then set himself vigorously and courageously to the task of reclaiming the land, the greater portion of which he brought under cultivation. He here continued to make his home until his life labors were ended, his death occurring in 1875, in the fulness of years and well merited honors. His political allegiance was given to the Democratic party, and in the early days he served as trustee cf his township, being one of the first incumbents of this cffice. His wife passed away on the cld homestead, having been to him a true helpmeet and a devoted mother to her children, who will ever revere her memory, which rests as a benediction upon all who came within the sphere of her influence.

reared under the sturdy and invigorating discipline of the old homestead farm, and his educational training was secured in the public schools of his native township. -Upon attaining maturity he assumed charge of the paternal farm, and was successful in the cultivation of the same and also in the line of stock-raising, to which he has continued. to devote considerable attention. He still owns and operates forty acres of the old farm, while in 1896 he purchased the farm of forty acres, in the same township, on which he now makes his home, having a commodious and comfortable residence and the best of improvements in all other essential lines, while he is known as a progressive and able business man, not content to follow entirely along the beaten path, but standing ready to avail himself of all appliances and methods which will add to the success of his farming operations. He also takes a commendable interest in all that concerns the well-being of the community, and keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day. His political proclivities are indicated in the stanch support which he accords to the Democratic party, whose cause he espoused upon attaining his legal majority. He has never married and his sister presides over the domestic economies of his home, where a generous hospitality is extended to a wide circle of their friends in the community where both have passed their lives.

Grattan H. Baker

One of the earliest families making permanent settlement in Sencca county was that now worthily represented by the gentleman whose name forms the heading cf this article. For many years they have been identified with the agricultural interests of this locality, and have aided materially in the development of the resources of Seneca county, taking an active part in everything calculated to promote the welfare and happiness of the majority.

East Hampton, Long Island. In 1639 he settled at Milford, Connecticut, and in 1650 returned to East Hampton. Judge Samuel Baker became a prominent sheepraiser of Steuben county, New York, where he also held the important office of judge of the court of commen pleas. in his family were twelve children, eight of whom, four sons and four daughters, came to Seneca county. Thomas J. and Franklin came to this county in 1822, settling in Eden township, where each secured three hundred and twenty acres of government land on section 13, but the latter was only permitted to enjoy his new home for a few years, being called to his final rest in 1831. In 1822 a sister, Mary, who became the wife of Joseph Baker, also came to this county and settled in Scipio township. John Baker came to Seneca county in 1828, locating in Eden. township, and in the same year his sister Sophia, with her husband, George Stearns, found a home in this locality. Two others, Ann, the wife of Zelolus Knapp, and Lucretia, the wife of Sylvanus Arnold, also came to Ohio, but both afterward removed to Garden Grove, lowa. Richard Baker, the father of our subject, was born in Urbana, New York, in January, 1809, and there he received his education in the public schools and was early inured to the labors of the farm. In 1835 he joined his brothers and sisters in Seneca county, locating on the farm om which our subject now resides, and here he became the owner of four hundred acres of land on sections 26, 35 and 36. His home place was on section 26, and at that time only a few acres had been cleared and a small log cabin had been erected. As the years passed by prosperity rewarded the well-directed efforts of Mr. Baker, and he was enabled to add to his original purchase until he became the owner. of one thousand acres of rich and fertile land, and there he was extensively engaged in the raising of sheep, having been the first to import a fine grade into Seneca county, bringing a fine drove of Spanish Merinos from the state of New York in 1836. In 1872, however, he left this valuable place to the care of our subject and removed to another farm in the township, there making his home until called to his final rest, when he had reached the eightieth milestone on the journey of life, passing away in the faith of the Methodist Episcopal church, in which he had been long an active worker. In 1836 Mr. Baker married Miss Fannie Wheeler, who was born in 1819, a daughter of the Hon. Grattan H. Wheeler, who was formerly a state senator from Steuben county, New York, and for seyeral years he was also a member of congress. The ancestry of the Wheeler family can be traced back to John Wheeler, who served as a sergeant at Concord, Massachusetts, as early as 1639. Mrs. Baker's grandfather, Silas Wheeler, was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, and in 1775, after following Arnold through Maine, he was wounded and captured in Canada, and was taken to Ireland, where, owing to the intervention of Henry Grattan, he was released. Mr. Wheeler promised to name his first male child Grattan Henry, and he was the father of Mrs. Baker. rs. Baker was called to the home beyond in 1887. Grattan H. Baker, the immediate subject of this review, was born on the farm on which he now resides, on the 15th of September, 1848. His elementary education was received in the common schools of his neighborhood, and later he entered Hillsdale College, at Hillsdale, Michigan, where he enjoyed superior advantages. About the time of his marriage he became the owner of the old home farm of four hundred acres, where he has ever since continued to make his home, and as time has passed ne has increased his landed possessions until he is now the owner of six hundred and seventy-five acres, six hundred acres of which are tn Eden township. Three hundred and sixty acres of his place are under an excellent state of cultivation, and in addition to the raising of the cereals best adapted to this soil and climate he is also extensively engaged in raising short-horn cattle and black-top Merino sheep. His is one of the finest improved farms in Seneca county. On the 4th of January, 1872, Mir. Baker was united in marriage to Miss Franke Fleet, a daughter of William and Eliza (Ogden) Fleet. he father came to Ohio in 1830, and became the owner of sixteen hundred acres of land in Eden township. His death occurred on the 20th of June, 1880. He was twice married, his first union being with Mrs. Sophia Stearns. Mrs. Baker was born in Eden township, Seneca county, and was educated in the public schools and Heidelberg College. When

Baker, and they have four children, - William F., who is a graduate of the Ohio Wesleyan University, and is now a member of the firm of Paddock & Baker, whose office is in the Calumet building, at 189 La Salle street, Chicago: July 20, 1901, he married Miss Catherine Paddock, a daughter of George L. Paddock, a prominent attorney of that city; Richard G., who is at present engaged in the cattle business in Colorado; Eliza O., who is a graduate of the Ohio Wesleyan University and is now at home; and Florence, who is a member of the senior class of the same institution. Mr. Baker gives his political support to the Republican party, and in religious belief he is a worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal church.

It argues well for the advantages of Seneca county that so many of her residents have never cared to change their place of abode, finding here good business opportunities as well as pleasant social life and educational opportunities.

Edson F. Gray is numbered among the native sons of the county, his birth having occurred September 25, 1845, upon the farm where he now resides, in Scipio township. He is a son of Samuel B. and Jane (Striker) Gray, both natives of Steuben county, New York. In the year 1831 they came to Ohio, establishing their home in Eden township, Seneca county, temporarily, and in 1832 he settled upon the farm in Scipio township which is now the home of our subject and which had been entered by his father from the government. It was a tract of land of two hundred and fifteen acres, upon which he erected a log cabin built of round logs and containing but one room. All around the little dwelling stood the tall forest trees, but in course of time these fell before the sturdy strokes of the woodman's ax and the sunlight showered across the grain in fields which had been cleared through his efforts. He remained upon the farm until 1851, when he went to California, where he was engaged in prospecting and mining. After two years spent upon the

Pacific coast, however, he returned to Seneca county and remained om the old homestead here until his death, which occurred January 20, 1880, when he was sixty-nine years of age. He long survived his wife, who. had departed this life in 1850. In connection with general farming, Samuel B. Gray was a land surveyor and civil engineer and followed those pursuits for many years, being actively associated with the work of land surveying in this county. In politics he was a stanch Republican and had served his township as assessor. In his family were seven children, of whom five reached maturity. Marcus, who was born July 4, 1841, died at Lexington, Kentucky, in December, 1862, when a member of Company K, Forty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Charles, who. was a member of the same company, was captured while on scouting duty and died in the prison hospital from injuries received when captured, at Richmond, Virginia, December 28, 1863. Edward F. is the next of the family. Jane is the wife of James Merchant, of Tiffin. Mary is the wife of Daniel Smith, of Republic, Ohio.

Upen the old family homestead Edward F. Gray was reared, and like most lads of the period he attended the common schools of the neighborhood and was trained to the work of the farm, by assisting hisfather in the development and cultivation of the fields. He was thus engaged until May, 1864, when, as a private of Company K, One Hundred andi Sixty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, he went to the front for one hundred days' service and participated in the defense at Washington. When twenty years of age he assumed the management of the home farm, which he has since continued. To-day he owns two hundred and fifteen acres of rich and arable land, on which he is carrying on general farming. Since 1884 he has been extensively engaged in stock-raising, making a specialty of Shropshire sheep and Jersey cattle, and finds ready sale for all surplus breeding animals at satisfactory prices.

On Christmas day of 1879 was celebrated the marriage of Edward F. Gray and Miss Harriet L. Smith, and their union has been blessed with three children, - Gretta T., Frank Grattan and Letha Louise, to: whom he has given the best local educational advantages. Mrs. Gray was born on an adjoining farm. Her father, David Smith, came on horseback from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to Ohio when about twenty years of age. In 1839 he married Susan Neikirk, a daughter of Jacob Neikirk, and she was born in Hagerstown, Maryland, and was eight years old when her people came to Ohio. She died August 26, 1899, at the age of seventy-eight years, and Mr. Smith February 26, 1901, at the age of ninety. In the family there were twelve in all, who reached maturity, of whom eleven are still living, 1902.

Mr. Gray exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the Republican party and has served as assessor and trustee for a number of years. In 1884 he was a candidate for county commissioner, and he was a land appraiser in 1900. He belongs to Hildreth Lodge, F. & A. M., of Republic, and maintains pleasant relation with his army comrades through his connection with Robinson Post, at Republic, in which he has served as the commander, and he attends the reunions and national encampments. He enjoys reading history, especially of the rebellion, and has taken interest in details of noted battles of the civil war. There are but few points about the leading battles, the officers, the cause and sequence of historical events in the war, etc., with which he is not acquainted. His interest is keenly alive to public affairs and he enjoys helping in political work.

Having always resided in this county, his life history is largely familiar to many of its citizens, and his career is known to be well worthy of regard. It has been characterized by diligence and enterprise in business and by trustworthiness in all life's relations.

Elias H. Grimes is a well known and progressive farmer in Seneca county, where he has acquired valuable landed interests. He is now successfully engaged in the operation of his farms and derives therefrom a good income. Mr.. Grimes was born in Frederick county, Maryland, on the 7th of March, 1829, and is a son of James and Rebecca (Ott) Grimes, in whose family were eleven children, five sons and six daughters. In the year 1833 James Grimes came to Ohio, taking up his abode in Liberty township, Seneca county, where he purchased eighty acres of land from the government. Not a furrow had been turned or an improvement made upon the place, the entire tract being still in its primitive condition as left by the hand of nature. Mr. Grimes erected a rude log house of two rooms and with characteristic energy began the development of his farm, which in time yielded to him golden harvests in return for the care and labor he bestowed upon it. His was a useful, honorable and active career and he passed away in his eighty-fifth year, respected by all who knew him. He had served as justice of the peace for nine years and his rulings were strictly fair and impartial. His wife passed away when fifty years of age.

Elias H. Grimes was a little lad of only four summers when he left his native state and accompanied his parents on their removal to Ohio. Here in the midst of the wild scenes of the frontier he was reared to manhood, enjoying the pleasures as well as enduring the hardships and trials incident to the establishment of a home in a pioneer region. He pursued his education in a log school-house and early became familiar with the arduous task of developing a new farm. To his father he gave the benefit of his services until he had attained the age of twentytwo years, when he entered upon an independent business career, working as a farm hand in this county. After he had been employed in that capacity for a few years, he rented land and began farming on his own account. Eighteen years later he removed to St. Joseph county, Indiana, where he purchased eighty acres of land, making his home thereon for seven years, after which he returned to Seneca county and tock up his abode on the old family homestead in Liberty township. He conducted work upon that farm for five years and then came to his present place of residence. He owns here a rich tract of eighty acres and has a second tract of like amount, being a part of the old homestead, so that his landed possessions comprise a quarter section of the rich soil of Ohio, He is now successfully carrying on general farming in a most modern way, and all cf the improvements and accessories of a model farm are found upon his place.

James E., Ellen Emma (a twin who died at one year), David O., Charles, Joseph B., Samuel, John, Amanda, George, Mary E., Myrtle May, Blanche B., Rosa A., Howard E. and Willard M. Charles and James are in Washington and all the remainder are at home or living near. The family is well known in the community and the members of the household have many warm friends.

Mr. Grimes exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the Republican party, but has never sought or desired office, preferring to give his time and attention to his business affairs, in which he is meeting with creditable and well deserved success. All that he has is the reward of his own labor and his life record proves what a potent element is diligence in the active affairs of life.

Mr. Anway was born October 13, 1829, on the farm where he now resides. His father, William Anway, was a native of Cayuga county, New York, where he was born in 1803. His father was William Anway, who, with his son William came to Seneca county, Ohio, soon after the land sales in 1821, taking up his abode in Scipio township. He entered three hundred and twenty acres of land from the government and is remembered as one of the honored pioneer settlers of this locality. The work of improvement and civilization had then scarcely begun, and he rendered substantial aid in laying broad and deep the foundations for the present prosperity and progress of this portion of the state. He was accompanied to this state by his seven sons and three daughters, all of whom became active factors in the upbuilding and improvement of this region. William Anway passed away at the early age of forty-eight years.

William Anway, Jr., was twenty-one years of age on the very day of his arrival in Scipio township, and relates that the first night was spent in an old Indian hut which stood near the present Baltimore & Ohio depot in Republic. He married Eliza Lapham, who was born in

1809, in Massachusetts, the daughter of Joseph and Lovina (Howland) Lapham. Her parents had eight children to reach the years of maturity, namely: Eliza; Noah, who married and died in Attica, aged eighty-five years; Henry, who became a farmer in Reed township and died past seventy years of age; Ruth and Phebe, who married and died young; Slocum, who lives at Odessa, Michigan; Mary Ann, now the wife of Jacob High and living at Portland, Michigan, being aged eighty-one years; and William, who lived on the old homestead and is now retired and living at Republic, aged seventy-four years. Joseph and Lovina, the parents, died aged respectively eighty-nine and eighty-five years. On emigration from Massachusetts the family made their home for a time in New York state, and came to Ohio about 1825. The residence was a mansion, erected sixty years ago, and was the largest in the county. Mrs. Anway was seventeen years of age at the time of her marriage. She and her husband had: four children, of whom Joseph L., the subject of this sketch, is the eldest. Walliam H., of Republic, has separate mention on another page of this work; Morgan H., born July 14, 1840, is a resident of Scipio township; and Phoebe J., still unmarried, is living at the old home, identified with all the advancement of the community.

Soon after their marriage the parents removed to the farm one and a half mules southeast of Republic, upon which Joseph L. Anway is now living. It then comprised eighty acres, upon which the father erected a log cabin and where with characteristic energy he began to clear the timber off and improve the land, in the course of years developing a valuable farm. He prospered in his business and by additional purchases extended the boundaries of his property until he owned six hundred and ten acres at the time of his death. Both he and his wife were consistent and influential members of the Methodist Episcopal church and were active in its work. Mr. Anway departed this life in 1863, being survived by his companion until July 31, 1881, when she, too, was called to rejoin him beyond the boundless sea.

Joseph L. Anway was reared on the family homestead, and the common schools afforded him his educational privileges. The first school which he attended was held in a small log building, but later he was a student in the academy at Republic. When twenty years of age he be- gan to teach, which profession he followed through three winter terms, with reasonable success. With the exception of a few years his entire life has been passed at the old home, and well does he deserve mention among the progressive agriculturists of the community. In October, 1852, Mr. Anway was united in marriage with Miss Betsey A. Thompson, who died in 1864. By this marriage there were three children: Martha and Ida J., who died in infancy; and Myrta Ann, now the wife of Irvin Ogden, having one child, M. Josie, aged six years. On the 16th of December, 1869, Mr. Anway was again married, his union being with Miss Maryette Ames, a daughter of Charles and Alvira (Higley) Ames. Her father, born in Connecticut, married in Genesee county, New York, and came to Scipio township, Seneca county, Ohio, in 1863, and died in November, 1898, at the age of eighty-five years, while his wife had passed away in July of the same year, at the age of eighty years. At the celebration of the sixtieth anniversary of their marriage all but one of their nine children were living. The record is as follows: Judson, a resident of North Dakota, was a member of the Twenty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving for three years in the civil war, and was wounded at the battle of Chancellorsville; Henry was a member of the Sixtysixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry and was killed during the war, in the battle of Lookout Mountain; Louisa is the wife of Morgan H. Anway, of Scipio township; William lives in the state of Washington; Emily 1s the wife of John E. Anway, of Chicago Junction; Maryette, already spoken of; Joseph, a resident of Fargo, North Dakota; Albert, who resides at Minneapolis; and David, also a resident of Fargo.

Mr. Anway, our subject, owns and cultivates two hundred and seventy acres of fertile land in the homestead. He also has another tract of eighty acres on section 21 of the same township. Nearly all of the improvements upon these places are his work and stand as monuments to his thrift and enterprise. The residence was erected in 1845. The home has ever been open to welcome the homeless or destitute. Twelve boys and one girl have resided here with the family from early years, being given school and other advantages. The girl, Mary J. Ames, is now a teacher at Big Lake, Minnesota, being principal of the schools.

years held the office of trustee of Scipio township, discharging his duties with marked faithfulness and capability. Socially he is identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and politically he is a Republican. He manifested his loyalty to the government during the civil war by his enlistment, on the 2d of May, 1864, as a member of Company K, One Hundred and Sixty-fourth Ohio Infantry, which was sent to the defense of Washington. He is a member of Captain Robinson Post, GA. Rovoft- Republic.

William Houck

Among Seneca county's native sons) William: Heuck is numbered, his birth having occurred in Clinton township on the 31st of January, 1842. His father, Henry Houck, was born in Frederick county, Maryland, whence in 1832 he made his way to the Buckeye state, settling in Seneca county. He married Rachel J. Shriver, and they became the parents of five sons, of whom William is the eldest, the others. being Louis, a merchant of Webster City, Iowa; Ezra M., who is living in Seneca township; Wilson, who died at the age of ten years; and Hiram S., whose death occurred in Sumner county, Kansas. The second son was a soldier of the civil war, enlisting twice during the progress of that event.

William Houck remained in Clinton township until fifteen years of age, when he removed with his parents to Seneca township, continuing at home until his marriage, which important event in his life occurred in 1862, the lady of his choice being Miss Ann M. Manges, by whom he has four children: Margaretta J., the wife of John Claybaugh, a resident of Seneca township; Mary A., the wife of Alvin Johnson, who is also living in that township; Ida O.: and an infant son, deceased.

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Houck began their domestic life upon a farm which belonged to her father and there resided for three years, when they removed to the farm which has since been the home of our subject. At the time of his marriage, however, he put aside all the 2d of May, 1864, joined Company B, One Hundred and Sixty-fourth Infantry, as a private. The regiment was mustered in for one hundred days' service and was sent to the defense of Washington. When the term had expired Mr. Houck was mustered out and returned to his home in Seneca county. He is now a member of Gibson Post, G. A. R. In 1896 he was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, who died on the 23d of December of that year, leaving many friends, for her excellencies of character had gained for her the love and esteem of all. Mr. Houck and family hold membership in the Presbyterian church, in which Mr. Houck has served as elder since 1877. He has always endeavored to shape his life according to his Christian belief ard his name is synonymous with integrity and with fair dealing in all his relations with his fellow men.

Among the worthy and progressive agriculturists of Seneca county no one is more justly entitled to an honorable place in its history than Mr. Shidler, who was born on the farm which is now his home and who has been usefully identified with the prosperity of the county in the promotion of its agricultural interests and of progressive measures for the general good. He has made the county his home throughout his entire life and has been a witness of its development from the early pioneer epoch, while his also is the distinction of having been one of the brave defenders of the Union during the war of the Rebellion.

Mr. Shidler was born on his present farm, in Pleasant township, on the 8th of January, 1850, being the son of John and Annie (Sellers) Shidler, the former of whom was born in Lehigh county, Pennsylvania. Of their six children we make record as follows: Charlotte is deceased ; Catherine is the wife of John P. Lousway, of Putnam county; Abram D. is the subject of this sketch; Laura B. is the wife of Charles Ross, of Indiana; Eliza A. is deceased: and Ellsworth is a resident of Sandusky county. John Shidler came to Seneca county in 1838, in company with his father, Jacob Shidler, and they located in Pleasant township, of which they thus became pioneers: the father of our subject here purchasing a tract of seventy-nine acres of government land, the same being lieavily timbered. Here he erected a little house of hewed logs, and on the place the family remained until 1861, when the father removed to another farm, of fifty acres, in the same township, where he remained until his death, in 1889, his widow thereafter abiding in the home of our subject until she, too, was called to her eternal rest, in December, 1901. Both were devoted members of the German Baptist church and they were held in the highest esteem in the community where so many years of their lives were passed. The father was a shingle-maker and carpenter, and in the former line he did a profitable business here in the early days, manufacturing the shingles by hand. The farm which he first purchased is now the home of his son, to whom this sketch is principally devoted.

Abram .D. Shidler was reared on the old homestead and attended the district schools as opportunity afforded, but when a mere lad, but little past his fifteenth birthday, he manifested his youthful patriotism and loyalty by tendering his services in support of the Union, enlisting, on the 13th day of January, 1864, as a member of Company B, One Hundred and Ninety-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was mustered into the service at Camp Chase, in the city of Columbus, and thence proceeded with his command to Winchester, Virginia, where they remained at the front until July 12, 1865. "Thence they went +o Harper sFerry, where they remained about ten days, after which they proceeded to the national capital and then to Alexandria, Virginia, where they were stationed until the 23d of December. The war having now closed, the regiment returned to Columbus, where our subject received his honorable discharge and was mustered out as a youthful veteran. He then came back to Seneca county and was associated with his father in his farming operations until 1870, when he came back to his present farm, which his father still owned, and here he has ever since maintained his home and devoted his attention to general agriculture, having added: fifty-five acres to the original tract and now having a finely improved farmstead of one hundred and twenty-nine acres. In politics he is a stalwart Republican, but has never sought official preferment, though he served with marked efficiency as clerk of the school board of his district for a term of years. His religious faith is that of the Progressive Dunkard' church, of which his family are also members. Fraternally he maintains his: association with his old comrades in arms, through his identification with the Grand Army of the Republic, being a member of General William Gibson Post, at Tiffin.

In 1870 Mr. Shidler was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Ross, who was a daughter of William Ross, a pioneer of Seneca county, and of this union twelve children were born, of whom six are deceased, namely: William, Charles, Logan, Jesse, Roy and Albert. The surviv - ing children are: Annie, the wife of Ezra Smith, of Pleasant township; Franklin, at home; Clara, the wife of Willard W. Jones, of Old Fort; and Oliver, Elmer and Russell, who remain at the parental home. Mrs. Shidler passed away in 1893, and on the 26th of November, 1895, our: subject was united in marriage to Mrs. Mary E. Osborn, who was borrr in Seneca county, the daughter of Absalom and: Malissa (Parker) Hall. She was first married to Roswell Osborn, by whom she had one daughter, Lottie M., who remains at the subject's home. Mr. and Mrs. Shidlerhave two children, - Abraham Dewey and Violet M., wha died on the 27th of June, 1901. Their pleasant home is the center of gracious hos-- pitality and they have a host of friends in the community.

Ephraim Stahl

It is pleasing to note the large number of native sons of Seneca county who are identified with its industrial activities and who command unqualified confidence and esteem in the communities where they have passed their entire lives. Of this number is Mr. Stahl, who is one of the successful men of the county where he was for many years a representative farmer, having now retired from active business and maintaining his home in the city of Fostoria.

Mr. Stahl was born on the old homestead farm in Jackson township, on the 29th of July, 1848, being the son of Henry Stahl, who was born in Perry county, this state, on the 2d of January, 1821, his father having he accompanied his widowed mother on her removal to Jackson township, Seneca county, and they settled on the farm where our subject was born, having purchased a tract of one hundred and sixty acres of wild land, and there he made his home until 1851, when he located on the Sandusky road, erecting a brick house, where he lived until his death, which occurred May 3, 1902. His wife, whose maiden name was Elizabeth Rineboldt, departed this life only a short time before, on March 6, 1902. She was born in Perry county, Ohio. They became the parents of six children, namely: Rebecca, who became the wife of John Feasel, is deceased; Lucinda is the wife of Jacob Ecker, of Jackson township; Lydia is the wife of Gottheb Mertz. cf Hancock county; Ephraim is the immediate subject of this sketch; Esther is the widow of Jacob Hiserman, of Jackson township; and Levi, who died in infancy. Henry Stahl was a man of fine mentality, having secured his education principally through personal application outside of the school-room, and as a youth he was a successful teacher in the primitive log school-houses of this county, teaching the first school in Jackson township, and following this profession for several years during the winter months. In politics he always gave a stanch support to the Democratic party, and his religious faith was that of the Lutheran church, in which he was a zealous and active worker. For many vears he held the office of justice of the peace, and he also served as trustee of his township. Prior to dividing his estate among his children he was the owner of about eight hundred acres of land, being one of the prosperous and influential men of the county.

Ephraim Stahl, the subject of this sketch, was reared on the old homestead farm and received his educational discipline in the public schools of the place and period. At the age of twenty-one years he was married, and he thereafter continued to devote his attention to agricultural pursuits, on the old homestead, until 1896, when he took up his residence in Fostoria, where he has an attractive home in a desirable section of the city. He still retains possession of his farming property, having a valuable and finely improved estate of three hundred and sixty acres. His political allegiance is given to the Democratic party. and both he and his wife are members of the Lutheran church.

Samuel Horn

The subject of this memcir was at the time of his death incumbent of the responsible position of superintendent of the Seneca couniy infirmary, being known as a capable and faithful executive and being held in the highest esteem in the community. It is eminently consistent that we here direct attention to the more salient points in the life history of Mr. Horn, who maintained his residence in Seneca county fcr thirty-four years, being prominently identified with its industrial and official interests.

Mr. Horn was a native of the old Keystone state of the Union, having been born in Lehigh county, Pennsylvania, on the 1oth of June, 1829. He was reared on a farm and received a common-school education. When eighteen years of age he entered upon an apprenticeship at the shoemaker's trade, devoting his attention to this line of work for a period of three years and then returning to the farm. He continued to be thereafter engaged in agricultural pursuits in his native state until 1869, when he came with his family to Seneca county, Ohio, locating in Fort Seneca, where he purchased a gristmill, to whose operation he thereafter gave his attention for a period of five years, at the expiration of which he again turned to tne vocation of an agriculturist, in Clinton township, where he remained until 1883, when he was chosen superintendent of the county infirmary, retaining this incumbency two years and two months and managing the affairs of the institution with distinctive discrimination and ability. He then resumed farming in Clinton township, where he made his home until 1892, when he removed to a farm of ton township, where he followed farming until 1897, when he was again called to the superintendency of the infirmary, in the administration of whose affairs he continued until his death, on the 31st of March, 1902, his. efforts meeting with the approval of all concerned and making the institution the more creditable to the county. His last term as superintendent covered exactly four years, his demise occurring on the fourth anniversary of the day on which he assumed control. In speaking of his official service the Seneca Advertiser, of Tiffin, gave utterance to the following statements: 'He was recognized by all as a competent and obliging official and his methods of conducting the county farm and caring for the unfortunates under his charge were such that he had the esteem and respect of every person on the place and the complete confidence of the infirmary: directors."'

In politics Mr. Horn was ever a stanch supporter of the principles and policies of the Democratic party, and he served for several years as trustee of Clinton township. His religious faith was that of the Reformed church, of which his widow is likewise a devoted member. Fraternally he was identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and was a charter member of Tiffin Lodge, No. 80, Knights of Pythias, under whose auspices his funeral obsequies were conducted, on Thursday afternoon, April 3, 1892, at the Reformed church in Tiffin, the Rev. J. D. Buhrer officiating. The Odd Fellows' fraternity was also largely represented at the funeral, a delegation from the lodge at Fostoria having been present, in addition to many of the brothers of the Tiffin organization of the order. He was laid to rest in Greenlawn cemetery, and the community realized fully that a good man and capable official had passed to his reward.

On the 22d of February, 1854, Mr. Horn was united in marriage to Miss Mary Meitzler, a native of Lehigh county, Pennsylvania, and they became the parents of six children, namely: Rosa, who is the wife of Rev. Henry Gramm, of Toledo, a clergyman of the Reformed church; Elmina, who is the wife of Clariden Cramer, of Clinton township; Benjamin and John, who are farmers of Oklahoma Territory; Aquilla, who

Mr. Horn was one of the widely known horse dealers of Seneca county, his operations in this line covering the period of his residence on the farm north of Tiffin, and it is said that one of the finest shipments of high-grade roadsters, bought in the vicinity of Hillsdale, Michigan, ever sent into the city of Philadelphia was made under his direction and selection, each of the animals being able to make a record of three minutes or better.

John A. Bradner

By the death of this honorable and upright citizen Fostoria and Seneca county, and, indeed, the state of Ohio, sustained an irreparable loss and were deprived of the presence of one who had come to be looked upon as a guardian and friend. Death often removes from our midst those whom we can ill afford to lose, those whose lives have been exemplary of the true and good and who are therefore really great citizens. Such a man was John Alonzo Bradner, whose entire career, both business and social, served as an inspiration to the aged and as a model to the young. His work as a member of the legal profession, and more especially as a railroad builder, was of the greatest benefit to the state, and by his usefulness and general benevolence he created a memory} whose perpetuation does not depend upon sculptured stone or elaborate mortuary crypt, but rather upon the spontaneous and freewill offering of a grateful and enlightened people. His connection with Fostoria's development and growth and with the cumulative work of material improvement was largely instrumental in placing the city in the proud position it to-day occupies.

Mr. Bradner was born August 13, 1833, at Niagara Falls, New York, a son of William and Laura (Everingham) Bradner. He spent his early life in the place of his nativity, pursued his education in the

698 CENTENNIAL BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORYtownship, Wood county, Ohio. His father established a store at West Mill Grove and he became a salesman therein. After clerking for six years he bought the store from his father and for two years carried on the enterprise individually. In 1859 he removed to Fremont, Sandusky county, where he was manager of a warehouse for the ensuing four years. In March, 1863, Mr. Bradner arrived in Fostoria, where he established a hardware and stove business, conducting the same witii adequate success for a period of nine years, or until 1872, when the demands made upon his attention by other business enterprises caused him to dispose of the store to devote his entire time to the development of other interests.

For thirty-five years Mr. Bradner was engaged in railroad building. He aided in securing the right of way, and was engaged in the construction of the Hocking Valley, the Ohio Central and the Nickel Plate Railroads; and he also took the contract for the construction of nineteen miles of the old Mansfield, Coldwater & Lake Michigan Railroad and thirty-five miles of the Clover Leaf Railroad. Thus, as a railroad contractor, he was closely associated with the work of improvement, for no other one agency has so direct or so important bearing upon the upbuilding and progress of a country as the introduction of railroads. He also secured the right of way for the Toledo, Fostoria & Findlay Electric Railroad, and at the time of his death he was the secretary and treasurer and the general manager of the Ohio & Northwestern Electric Railroad. In the winter of 1900-1901 he secured for this corporation the right of way from Fostoria to Jerry City, and while engaged in that work was taken ill, passing away on the gth of July, 1901, at the age of sixty-eight years. When the state had been largely supplied with railroads for transportation by the power of steam, his progressive spirit led him to take up the new methods of travel by the aid of electrical power, and thus he was associated with the upbuilding of interurban lines. This, however. did not comprise the extent of Mr. Bradner's connection with business interests. He macadamized the principal streets of Fostoria: was engaged in the stone and lime business, having been a large stockholder and president of the Fostoria Stone & Lime Com- pany; was one of the organizers of the first gas company here; and in all Ways was known as a progressive, public-spirited and influential citizen. He was a man of keen sagacity, capable of looking beyond the exigencies of the moment to the possibilities of the future. He labored not alone for himself or for his own generation but also for posterity, for through many years to come his efforts will benefit those who follow him. His interests were of important character and of great magnitude, and although his business career was so successful as to seem almost phenomenal, it but represented the fit utilization of his powers along the lines where mature judgment led the way, and his prosperity was the result of his own efforts. \While he was engaged in building the Hocking Valley Railroad Mr. Bradner was associated with Mr. Ransom Crocker in the founding and platting of 2 town in \Vcod county, located on the line of this railroad, and the same was named in honor of the subject of this memoir. Bradner is now a very attractive and prosperous town of seventeen hundred population, being located in the center of the cil belt and having before it an unmistakably auspicious future.

On the 3d of March, 1856, Mr. Bradner was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Phillips, a daughter of Samuel and Sarah Phillips, of Jerry City, Ohio, and unto them were born the tollowing named children: Catherine, the eldest, is the wife of Samuel Lynn, of Toledo; May became the wite of Pliny Jones, cf Fostoria, and is new deceased; Rosa, who was the wife of Brice M. Stout, of Fostoria, is likewise deceased; Martin, who was editor of the Evening News, of Fostoria, died at the age of twenty-seven years, leaving a wife and two children, - John A. and Frederick; Jessie is the wife of Edward Cooper, of Fostoria; Franc is the wife of Frank Stout. a furniture dealer in Fostoria, which city likewise continues to be the home of the two other sons, Harry E. and John R.

In addition to all his other interests John A. Bradner studied law. was admitted to the bar in 1879, and became the first city solicitor of Fostoria. For twenty-one years he was incumbent of the office of justice of the peace, and his rulings were ever fair and impartial. He served for seven consecutive terms in that office in Loudon township, and was elected for the eighth term. For six years he was the mayor of Fostoria, and his executive duties were so ably and faithfully performed that one could readily have believed that he had no extraneous interests and was giving his entire time to the administration of the municipal government. He was a man remarkable in the breadth of his wisdom, in his indon:- itable perseverance and in his strong individuality. His entire life had not one esoteric phase, being an open scroll, inviting and challenging closest scrutiny. True his were ''massive deeds and great'' in one sense, and yet his entire life accomplishment but represented the result of the exercise of the intrinsic talent which was his and the directing of his efforts along those legitimate and prolific lines where mature judgment and rare discrimination led the way. A man of indefatigable enterprise and fertility of resource, he carved his name deeply on the records of the industrial and professional history of this section of the great state of Ohio, which owes much of its advancement to his labors. Though he had no personal political ambition, Mr. Bradner was a stalwart Republican in his political adherency, and was ever signally true to the duties of citizenship, while his religious faith was that of the Presbvterian church. His home life was ideal in character, and those to whom he was nearest and dearest find in the grateful memory of his noble and useful life a perpetual benediction, his widow still surviving him and maintaining her home in Fostoria.

Edvingran Dees

For over seventy years this gentleman has been a resident of the Buckeye state, and throughout the long period of his residence within its borders he has ever taken an active interest in its development and improvement. His birth cccurred in Reckland, Knox county, Maine, on the 19th of November, 1827. His father, William Randell, was born in Belfast, that state, and was a carpenter by trade, following that line companied by his family, he made the journey by canal and the Great Lakes to Sandusky, Ohio, and from that city the family journeyed by wagon to Seneca county. On his arrival here Mr. Randell purchased one hundred acres of land, in Eden township, which at that time formed a part of the Mohawk reservation, and a sawmill had been erected on the land. He placed his fields under an excellent state of cultivation, made many substantial and valuable improvements on his land, and his became one of the most attractive and desirable homesteads of the township. At the time of his death he was the owner of one hundred and ninety-six acres. Our subject now has in his possession a deed signed by General Henry Knox, secretary of war under General Washington, and bearing date of the year 1801, the document covering a grant of land sold to his grandfather, Thomas Randell, whose father, John Randell, was the founder of the family in America, whither he came from England.

William Randell, the father of our subject, was united in marriage to Eunice Crockett, and they became the parents of the following children: Eliza, the deceased wife of Theodore Graves; Edwin, the subject of this review; Elbert, deceased; Nathaniel, a resident of Cass county, Missouri; Theodore and Josephine, both deceased, as is also the youngest child, who died in infancy. The father of this family was called to his final rest in 1882, when he had attained the age of eighty-two years. He became one of the prominent and influential men of his locality, where he was honored with a number of positions of distinctive trust and responsibility. While a resident of Maine he was a lieutenant in the state militia.

Edwin Randell, the immediate subject of this review, was but four years of age when he was brought by his parents to Eden township, and here he was early inured to the labors of the farm in all its departments, while the educational advantages which he enjoyed in his youth were those afforded by the primitive schools of the times. In 1847 he went to Napoleon, Henry county, Ohio, where he purchased one hundred and ninety-two acres of wild land, and as the years passed he succeeded in placing his land under effective cultivation, and there he made his home until 1866, when he returned to Eden township. By purchase he then became the owner of the old homestead farm, where he continued to reside until 1892, in which year he removed to his present residence, in the same township, though he still retains possession of the original homestead. After a long, active and useful business career an honored retirement has been vouchsafed Mr. Randell, and he is now enjoying the fruits of former toil. He has a small tract adjacent to the homestead, and here he has erected a pleasant residence, of attractive architectural design and equipments, the same being located three miles south of the city of Tiffin and being cne of the most desirable homes in this vicinity.

On the 1st of October, 1855, Mr. Randell was united in marriage to Miss Ellen Palmer, and they have had six children, of whom we enter brief record as follows: Sumner, who is a resident farmer of Eden township, married Bertha Cook, and they have two children, Erwin Paul and Arthur; Harold is engaged in mining in the state of Idaho: May remains at the parental home; Augusta became the wife of \Villiam C. Strohm and died at the age of thirty-nine years, leaving three children, Edwin, Leah and Augusta, all of whom have resided with their maternal grandparents, Edwin being now superintendent of the Home Telephone Company, at Tiffin: and Maude and Nina died in childhocd. Mrs. Strohm was an artist of fine talent, having executed many excellent paintings in oil, one of which, entitled the 'First Homestead," exhibited at the Columbian Exposition, in Chicago, in 1893, depicted the first homestead entered from the government near Beatrice, Nebraska. The picture was executed for Mrs. John A. Logan, wife of the renowned general, and by her was placed on exhibition, as noted. Several of Mrs. Strohm's productions have sold for handsome prices and a number of specimens of her art work are to be found in the pleasant home of her father, including portraits of his parents and also one of herself.

the interests of the community. He has attained a distinct local reputation from his poetical productions, and has published a neat volume of verse, the same having afforded marked pleasure to many readers in Seneca county. Two of his poems, relating to the late Spanish-American war, are appropriately reproduced in this connection.

Peace

That swathed her form in battle's mad'ning hour, From which the lightning flames of battle flashed, As leaps the living flame from midnight cloud, To hur] their crashing ruin on the foe;

Our ears too long have listened to the sobs, Blent with the cruel clank of chains that wore Their gory links into her bleeding limbs. Those gyves are rent asunder; rise thou up! Put on thy buskins and go forth to make

Santiago

Before the carnage, fell and red, Before the conflict, fierce and dread, In vain the Spanish squadron fled; In vain on wings of fear they sped From fated Santiago.

It rends her triple coats of mail; Her stoutest hearts begin to quail; They see the Vikings' sons assail Their squadron with an iron hail, And turn to flee with steam and sail Away from Santiago.

Their prows are turnéd toward the shore, Where wide-winged vultures wheeling o'er The blue waves lapping on the shore Shall wash their slippery decks of gore. By conquered Santiago.

Daniel Wagner

He to whom this memoir is dedicated passed practically his entire life in Seneca county, and for the long span of his useful and honorable career as a farmer he was prominently identified with the industrial activities of this section of the state, his days having been part and portion of the indissoluble chain which linked the annals of the earlv pioneer epoch with those of latter day progress and prosperity. This record is entered as a slight tribute to a man who stood "four square

Daniel Wagner was born in Perry county, Ohio, on the 26th of July, 1825, being the son of David Wagner, who was born in Pennsylvania, whence he emigrated to Ohio in the early pioneer days. The family came from Perry to Seneca county in 1828, locating on a tract of wild forest land on section 19, in Eden township, the place now owned by Wesley Crum. David Wagner cleared this farm of its heavy growth of native timber, placed the land under cultivation and there continued to make his home until his death, at the age of eighty years. Our subject was but three years of age at the time of the removal to Seneca county, and here he grew up under the sturdy discipline of the pioneer farm, receiving such educational advantages as were afforded in the primitive schools of the place and period. He continued to assist in the work of the old homestead until he had attained the age of twenty-one years, though he had been married a year previously, and he then took up his residence on another farm, in the same township, where he devoted his attention to general agriculture for a period of twelve years, at the expiration of which he removed to the farm where his widow now resides and where his death occurred, on the 28th of February, 1892. In the home farm are comprised one hundred and fortytwo acres, and upon the place he made the best of improvements, including a fine modern farm residence. He was the owner of three hundred and two acres cf land at the time of his death, and was well known as one of the substantial farmers and influential citizens of the community, honored as one of the sterling pioneers of the county. In his political affiliation he was arrayed in support of the Democratic party, and his religious views were indicated in his being a devoted member of the Unted Brethren church, of which his widow also is an adherent.

On the 12th of April, 1855, Mr. Wagner was united in marriage to Miss Angeline Musgrave, who was born in this county, of which her father, Elijah Musgrave was an early settler. To Mr. and Mrs. Wagner seven children were born, namely: Filmore, a resident of Lyon county,

George, a farmer of \Wyandot county; Hattie, the wife of Philo Keller, a mechanic of Tiffin; William, a farmer of Eden township; Orpha, the wife of Joseph Heck, who has charge of the homestead; and Ida, who remains with her mother in the old home.

A representative of one of the old and honored families of Seneca county, which since pioneer days has been prominently connected with the development and substantial progress of this section of the state, Mr. Fry is worthily sustaining the high reputation of the family, through his active and useful life, prominence in connection with the agricultural industries of this favored section of the Buckeye state and his influential position as one of the county's extensive landholders. There is utmost compatibility in here entering a brief review of his career, and aside from being a valuable and perpetual record the article will be read with interest by the many friends of himself and the family.

Mr. Fry is a native son of Seneca county, having been born on the parental homestead, in Pleasant township, on the 14th of October, 1840, the son of Philip H. and Elizabeth (King) Fry, who became the parents of four children, of whom three survive, - Orrin J., a successful and prominent farmer of Pleasant township; Franklin J., of this sketch; and Henry P., a representative agriculturist of Liberty township. The father was a native of Prussia, where he was born in the year 1805 and where he was reared and educated, there learning the trade of carpenter. In 1831 he emigrated to America and for the first year worked at his trade in Maryland, while in the spring of 1832 he came to Tiffin, Ohio, the county-seat of Seneca county, and here assisted in the erection of the first court-house. In the fall of the following year he went to Sandusky county and was thereafter prominently engaged in contracting and building, erecting a large portion of the most important buildings as far northward as Fremont, that county, and being associated with Joseph

Moore in the building of a number of grist and cotton mills. His marriage occurred in 1837, and he then purchased a tract of thirty acres across the line in Seneca county, in Pleasant township, which is contiguous to Sandusky county. Here he made his home and for some years he continued to follow his trade. After paying for the property mentioned he purchased another tract, of one hundred and sixty acres, in the same township, this same being eligibly located on Wolf creek and constituting the present home of his son, the subject of this sketch. He forthwith took up his residence on this place, and about 1855, in coninection with his agricultural operations, established a dairy business, operating a cheese factory and doing a profitable business. In 1858 he bought another quarter section in this township and in 1866 he purchased fifty-eight acres lying between his home farm and his original thirty acres, thus throwing the three places into one farm, with the aggregate area of three hundred and fifty-eight acres. In 1872 he purchased the old homestead of his father-in-law, Jacob King, in Sandusky county, the same comprising eighty acres, and thus his landed estate became one of no inconsiderable extent and value. Mr. Fry was a man of distinctive intellectuality, being a reader. of the best literature and keeping well informed in regard to the questions and issues of the day. His individuality was forceful and his convictions clearly defined, while he ruled his life upon the highest plane of honor and probity, thus gaining a commanding position in the confidence and esteem of his fellow men, and being one of the influential citizens of the community where he lived and labored to so goodly ends. Originally he was a Stanch Democrat, supporting the principles and policies advocated by Jefferson and Jackson, but when the party repudiated paper currency his convictions as to political expediency led him to transfer his allegiance to the Greenback party. After the passing of this organization he maintained an independent attitude in politics. He served in various township offices, always efficiently and to the satisfaction of the people, and for many years he held official position in the Protestant Methodist church, of which he and his wife were devoted members. His death occurred in 1891, his widow surviving until 1901, when she passed away

Franklin J. Fry, the immediate subject of this review, was reared on the parental farmstead and was accorded excellent educational advantages, having secured his preliminary discipline in the district schools, after which he continued his studies in turn at the high schocl in Republic, in Heidelberg College and in the Berea Business. College. At the age of twenty-one years he began teaching during the winter terms, giving his attention to farming during the summer months, by assisting his father in the management of the homestead. In 1866 his marriage was solemnized and for the ensuing year he continued farming on the parental homestead, while the following three years were devoted to the same line of industry on the farm owned by his fatherin-law. In 1871 he purchased two hundred acres of his present farm estate, taking up his residence on the place' at that time and ever since' continuing to make this his home, having added fifty-six acres to its area and brought the place under the highest state of cultivation, while he has made permanent improvements of the best order. He also owns in this same township (Pleasant) another farm, of two hundred and seventy-five acres, lying across the river from his home place, and this farm he rents, and he also owns a tract of two hundred and twenty acres, which was a portion of the homestead of his father-in-law.

Mr. Fry has ever maintained a lively interest in all that touches the advancement of the legitimate interests of the county and state, and in the fall of 1901 he was elécted township trustee of Pleasant town- ' ship. of which office he is now incumbent, while he also served two years as township treasurer. His political affiliation is with the Democratic party, and he has taken an active interest in public affairs of a local nature. He is a member of the Pleasant Township Farmers' Social, and he and his family are prominent in the social life of the community, their friends being in number as their acquaintances, while their pleasant home is a center of refined hospitality.

Titus, one of the pioneer settlers in the county. Of this union two children were born, - R. T., who is deceased; and Delene, who is one of the popular young ladies of the county, her gracious and gentle personality and marked talents winning to her the friendship of all with whom she comes in contact. She is a graduate of the Ursuline College in Tiffin, and for one year was a student in the celebrated New England Conservatory of Music, in Boston, while she is at the present time attending Oberlin College, at Oberlin, Ohio, preparatory to finishing her musical education in Boston. Her talent in connection with the "divine art" is unmistakable, and it is the wish of her parents to afford her the best possible advantages in the pursuing of her musical studies, to which

John Albright

John Albright is one of the extensive land-owners of Seneca county, and he has prospered in his undertakings through well directed efforts, capable business management and keen discernment in controlling his affairs. He to-day cwns five hundred and twenty-five acres of valuable land and in the home farm has a quarter section. His residence is one of the attractive farm dwellings of the county and everything about his place indicates the careful supervision of the owner.

Mr. Albright is a native of Pennsylvania, his birth having occurred in Lancaster county, October 20, 1835. He is the eldest of the four sons of Charles and Molly (Smith) Albright. It was in the spring of 1835 that his father came by team to Seneca county, locating in Scipio township, and here he began working at his trade of carpentering. Soon after he purchased eighty acres of wild land in Adams township. Not a furrow had been turned or an improvement made upon the place. It was a timber tract on which the trees stood in their primeval strength. A log cabin first sheltered the family, and in true pioneer style they lived course of time he placed it under a high state of cultivation and was enabled to add all modern equipments and conveniences to his property. He owned three hundred and twenty acres of land, all in one body, and in connection with general farming carried on cabinetmaking and undertaking, manufacturing the coffins and superintending all of the funerals held in this section of the county. He was a member of the Dunkard, or German Baptist church, and died in April, 1886, at the age of seventy-six years, his birth having occurred in 1810, while his wife passed away on the 8th of January, 1887. Their sons were John; Jacob, now living in Adams township; David, who died in 1871; and Isaac, a resident of Bellevue, Ohio.

At the usual age John Albright entered the district school near his home and began mastering the branches of English learning which constitute the basis of all our knowledge. He afterward enjoyed the advantages of a course in Republic Academy and when twenty-one years of age he left home and went to Dayton, where for two years he was employed at the carpenter's trade. When that period had elapsed he returned to Seneca county and resided at his present home in Adams township until his marriage, which eccurred on the 1st of December, 1863, the lady of his choice being Mary Huddle, who was born in Lykens township, Crawford county, Ohio, a daughter of Benjamin and Annie (Seitz) Huddle, the latter a daughter of Lewis Seitz. Of the children of our subject and his wife we record that Charles F. is a resident of Chicago Junction; Athena died at the age of sixteen years; Upton D., who follows farming in Scipio township, lives at the parental home; and Orin L., who was adjutant of Company E, Second Ohio Infantry, during the Spanish-American war.

After his marriage Mr. Albright and his bride began their domestic life upon the farm which has since been his home. Here he owns one hundred and sixty acres of rich land, which annually returns to him good harvests, a reward for his enterprise and labor. In other farms he has rich lands, and altogether has a landed estate aggregating five hundred and twenty-five acres. Upon his place are found good grades of stock, the latest improved machinery, and all modern accessories for facilitating. his work, and the prosperity which he is now enjoying is the reward of his earnest and persistent efforts. He has served as township trustee and fraternally he is connected with the Masonic order. Although born in the Keystone state, he has spent almost his entire life in this county, and his many excellent traits of character cornmend him to the respect and confidence of all with whom he is associated.

Mr. Lonsway is the owner of one of the finest farms of Seneca county and his residence is acccunted one of the best in this section of the state. It is specially attractive in appearance and, moreover, is noted for its gracious hospitality, which makes it a favorite resort of the many friends of the family.

Julius J. Lonsway was born in Hopewell township, Seneca county, in 1847, a son of Peter and Amelia (Handle) Lonsway, natives, respectively, of Canada and Pennsylvania. It was in the year 1840 that Peter Lonsway emigrated from Pennsylvania to Ohio, locating in Hopewell township, this county, where he passed the remainder of his life, reclaiming and improving his farm) and being known as one of the sterling pioneers of the county. He died on the old homestead, on the 17th of April, 1886, having attained the age of sixty-one years, and his widow survived until 1888, being sixty-five years of age at the time of her death. Of their ten children we incorporate the following brief record: Emanuel M. is a resident of Loudon township; Julius J. is the immediate subject of this sketch; Alfretta E. is the wife of Henry Wagner, of Clinton township; John V. is identified with railroading and is a resident of Kansas City, Missouri; Almond L. is deceased: Sarah FE. is the wife of Charles Coon, of Loudon township; Austin J. is a resident of Nebraska; Jonas B. is a prominent attorney of Cincinnati; Charles P. is a ranchman of Nebraska; and Victor is deceased. The father of our subject, in connection with his agricultural pursuits, was also engaged for a number of years in public contracting, and in this line he was successful, his operations in the two spheres of endeavor enabling him to provide most effectively for the maintenance of his family. As a contractor he aided in the construction of the Mad River Railroad, 'between Tiffin and Carey. Both he and his wife were devoted communicants of the Catholic church, holding membership in St. Mary's church, in Tiffin.

Upon the old homestead farm, in Hopewell township, Julius J. Lonsway was reared, and through the winter months he secured his early educational discipline in the common schools of the neighborhood. When twenty-six years of age he inaugurated his independent business career by renting the old home farm, and he continued to reside in Hopewell township until 1882, when he removed to Scipio township, and purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land, making his home on this farm until 1901. In that year he removed to his present homestead farm, in Clinton township, and upon this place he has made the best of improvements and on every hand are to be seen the distinct evidences of thrift and prosperity. He has here a quarter section of land, known as the old Montgomery farm, and each year, as the result of his well directed efforts, he gathers excellent harvests and also receives good financial returns from the sale of his live stock, devoting particular attention to the raising of a high grade of stock. He has recently erected a commodious residence of modern and attractive design, and-also a fine barn and other requisite outbuildings, and his farm now compares most favorably with the best to be found in this attractive section of the Buckeye state.

In politics Mr. Lonsway gives a stanch allegiance to the Democratic party, but the honors and emoluments of public office have had no attractions for him, and he has preferred to devote his time and attenticn to his business interests, through which he has attained a gratifying and well merited success. Industry, energy and progressive spirit have ever been dominating characteristics in his makeup and through these forces he has attained a distinctive degree of prosperity and is numbered among the representative agriculturists of the county. He was reared in the faith of the Catholic church and is a communicant of St. Mary's church, in Tiffin, taking a deep interest in its work.

On the 8th of October, 1882, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Lonsway to Miss Catherine McNama, who was born in this county, the daughter of Morris McNama. Mr. and Mrs. Lonsway became the parents of six children, of whom three are living, - Florence, John P. and Morris J. Mary is deceased and the other two children died in infancy. The devoted wife and mother was summoned into eternal rest on the 4th of February, 1895, having been a woman whcse gracious and noble character won to her uniform esteem and the affection of a wide

It gives us great pleasure to present to our readers a sketch of the life of cne of whom the community may well be proud; one who has filled his daily life with that brotherly love and Christian charity which have proved a light guiding many to the better way. Widely known in church and social circles, his life is well worthy of emulation by the young men of his age who are desirous of leaving a name that will be loved and honored.

Father Forrer was born in Zuckenrist, canton of St. Gall, Switzerland, on the 7th of February, 1868. After completing a college course in his native land he came to the United States, and for the following Six years was a student in the St. Mary's Seminary, at Cleveland, Ohio. He was ordained to the priesthood of the Catholic church on the 23d cf December, 1893, and soon afterward was made assistant at , St. Stephen's church, in Cleveland, where he continued until June, 1808. <\t that time he was appointed pastor of St. Patrick's church, in Loudon: township, and of St. Andrew's congregation, in Liberty township. Seneca ccunty. Since taking up his present work Father Forrer has built up the schcols in his parish in a wonderful degree and has installed new life into the church work. From his youth his has been a serious and deeply religious nature, and as he has grown older the meaning and thoroughly earnest and sincere in all his thoughts, words and deeds, and his noble, manly life has proved an inspiration to many of his friends and associates. His success in his church work here has been almost phenomenal, and is due to his habits of application and to the perseverance which have characterized his entire life. His influence has ever been found on the side of progress, of liberty and of right, and the effect of his labers in this section have been far-reaching and beneficial.

Daniel Bollinger

Numbered among the younger business men of Seneca county is Daniel Bollinger, whose entire life has been passed in this county. He is recognized as one of the leading agriculturists of Venice township, his skill and ability in his chosen calling being plainly manifest in the well tilled fields and neat and thrifty appearance of his place. His birth occurred in Venice township, Seneca county, May 4, 1863, and he is a son of Lewis and Margaret Bollinger, whose history will be found in the sketch of L. \V. Bollinger in this volume.

Daniel Bollinger, of this review, remained in his parents' home until 1886, during which time he attended the common schools of his neighborhood. In that year he obtained employment as a farm hand with George Heapler, with whom he remained for one year, and during the following year he remained with his parents. After his marriage he purchased forty acres of land in Venice township, and on this small farm he began to make for himself a home. In 1897, however, he sold that tract and purchased the farm which he now owns, consisting of ninety acres of rich and fertile land, and it originally formed a part of the old Bollinger homestead. His desire to make for himself a name and place among the substantial men of the Buckeye state has been accomplished, and as the record of a young man his is one of which he may justly be proud, but the success he has achieved in life is the just reward of meritorious, honorable effort, which commands the respect and admiration of all. In matters of political importance he casts his ballot in favor of the men and measures of the Democracy. He has served as a member of the school board, the cause of education ever finding in him a warm friend, and at all times he is public-spirited aud progressive.

On the 18th of March, 1889, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Bollinger and Miss Louisa Deisler, a daughter of Charles Deisler. Six children have come to brighten and bless their home, namely: Orlena, Marie E., Rosetta, Clara E., George D. and Samuel E. Mr. and Mrs. Bollinger are members of the Reformed church.

Joseph Blum

From the study of_the life history of Joseph Blum one may learn valuable lessons. The spirit of self-help is the source of all genuine worth in the individual and is the means of bringing to man success when he has no advantages of wealth or influence to aid him. It illustrates in no uncertain manner what it is possible to accomplish when perseverance and determination form the keynote to a man's life. Depending upon his own resources, looking for no outside aid or support, Mr. Blum has risen to his present high position in the business circles of Seneca county.

Mr. Blum was born in Alsace, France, on the 24th of August, 1852, and is a son of Joseph and Mary (Brumbach) Blum. The parents also were natives of that province, and there they spent their entire lives. In early life the father was appointed keeper of the forest, and he served in that important position throughout the remainder of his life. Of their six children five are. still living, namely: Francis, George and Joseph: Helen, the widow of John Miller and a resident of New Washington, Crawford county, Ohio; and Mary, the wife of Charles and the educational privileges which he was permitted to enjoy in his youth were those afforded by the common schools of his locality. In 1872, however, he left the home of his childhood for the United States, embarking from Liverpool, and after a stormy voyage of twenty-four days landed in the harbor of New York. He soon made his way to Seneca county, Ohio, walking from Tiffin to the home of his uncle, John, Blum, two and one-half miles east of Attica, where he was employed at farm labor by the month. In 1893 he rented a farm east of Attica, known as the Steigmeyer place, which continued to be his home for the following three years, and on the expiration of that period, in 1896, he purchased the Sam Rivert farm, his present home place, of one hundred and twenty acres. It will thus be seen that he is a type of the progressive spirit of the age. His undaunted perseverance, indomitable enterprise and resolute purpose have been the means of raising him from a position of comparative obscurity to one of prominence in the agricultural circles of Seneca county. He is now the owner of a valuable and attractive little farm, which he has placed under an excellent state of cultivation, and everything about the place indicates the supervision of a progressive owner. Huis political support is given to the Democracy.

The marriage of Mr. Blum was celebrated in 1891, when Miss Matilda Ansberger became his wife. She is a native daughter of Seneca county, and her father, Albert Ansberger, is one of the well known agriculturists of Venice township. This union has been blessed with one child, Josephine. The family are members of the Catholic church.

"We build the ladder by which we rise" is a truth which is certainly applicable in the case of Mr. Smith. He is a type of the progressive spirit of the age, - a spirit which has given America pre-eminence along its various business lines, - and the undaunted enterprise, indomitable