Thompson Township (part 10 of 16)

CHARLES W. FOSTER, deceased, was born in North Brain^-^e, Worcester Co.. Mass., November 21. 1800, and at the age of e«giiteen years removed with his parents. William and Elizabeth (Nichols) Foster, to Monroe County, N. Y. In 1826 our subject came to Seneca County, Ohio, where he remained a short time. June 7, 1827, he married Laura, daughter of John and Lucy (Bartlett) Crocker, who settled in Seneca Township, this county, in 1823. After his marriage Mr. Foster was engaged in business in Seneca Township for two years. He then removed to Hopewell Township, where he had IBO acres of land, which he sold in a few years, and, with the proceeds, in 1882, he and his father-in-law (who had more means) embarked in mercantile business in a cabin where the "Foster Block" now stands (then known as Rome), under the firm name of Crocker & Foster. This partnership existed for ten years, when Mr. Foster became sole proprietor, and continued alone up to 1848, when his son Charles became associated with him, under the firm name of Charles W. Foster & Son, and in 1856 Mr. Olmsted was admitted, and the style changed to the present one of Foster. Olmsted & Co. When the firm of Crocker & Foster started in business, their combined capital did not exceed $2,000, but at the time of Mr. Foster's death the business of the house in their various lines of trade exceeded $1,000,000 annually. Mr. Foster had six children, of whom three grew to maturity: Charles, John W. (deceased) and Emily (deceased). Mr. Foster was a man of character, and his method of doing business won him thousands of friends. The house of Foster & Co. contributed largely to every enterprise that tended to build up the town and county. Mr. Foster served his township as justice of the peace for several years. He was postmaster under the administration of President Polk. In politics he was a stanch Republican. He died April 26, 1883, in his eightythird year.

EX-GO V. CHARLES FOSTER. Fostoria, son of Charles W. and Lam-a (Crocker) Foster, was born at his grandfather' s house, on the old Crocker place, in Seneca Township, this county, April 12, 1828. After a course of educational training at the common schools and the academy at Norwalk, Ohio, he early in life engaged in mercantile pursuits, becoming associated with his father in business at Fostoria, in 1848. As a member of the firm of Foster & Co., who made banking a special department of their business, he became prominently identified with the financial interests of Fostoria and surrounding country; and the banking house of Foster & Co. has since enjoyed a widespread and enviable reputation. Mr. Foster never held any public office until he was elected in 1870 a representative from Ohio in the Forty-second Congress, receiving 13,274 votes, against 12,498 votes for Edward F. Dickinson, Democrat; was re-elected to the Forty-third Congress in 1872, receiving 14,997 votes, against 14,271 votes for R. R. Sloane, Liberal Republican; was re-elected in 1874 to the Forty -fourth Congress, receiving 13,778 votes, against 13,619 votes for George E. Seney, Democrat, and 289 votes for Mead, Temperance candidate; and was re-elected in 1876 to the Forty-fifth Congress, receiving 17.324 votes, against 17,053 votes for Hudson, Democrat. He was again nominated in 1878, but, the district having been changed and made so overwhelmingly Democratic, he sustained a defeat. In 1879 Mr. Foster was nominated by the Republicans and elected governor of the State, being re-elected in 1881. He served both terms with such marked ability and discretion as to win the esteem of all political parties. In 1854 the subject of our sketch was married to Annie, daughter of Judge Olmstead, of Fremont, Ohio, and to this union were born two daughters: Jessie and Annie.

ANTHONY FOX, deceased, late of the firm of Fox & Co. , coal and wood dealers, Fostoria. was born in Columbiana Connty. Ohio. October 19, 1826, son of Tobias and Mary (Henry) Fox, pioneers oi Columbiana County, and later of Richland County, Ohio. Our subject was reared in Columbiana and Beaver Counties. Penn. , until twelve years of age, when he removed, with his parents, to Richland County, Ohio. His ediacational advantages were limited, comprising but three months' attendance at the schools of his day. ^Vhen twenty-four years of age he settled in Washington Township, Hancock Co. , Ohio, on eighty acres of land, which he cleared and improved, afterward adding 160 acres, "thereby enlarging his farm to '240 acres. Here he resided until 1880, when he removed to Fostoria, and embarked in his late business. Mr. Fox was married, in March, 1S50. to Elizabeth J., daughter of Paul and Catharine (Ickis) Shreffler, of Ashland County, Ohio, by whom he had seven children, five now living: Eveline (wife of Alonzo Emerine), Ida, Alvin E. , Elizabeth A. and Mary E. Mr. Fox was a member of the German Reformed Church. During his residence in Washington Township, Hancock County, Mr. Fox served as justice of the peace twenty-seven years in succession. In politics he was always a stanch Democrat. He died August 29, 1885, aged fifty-eight years, ten months and ten days. His widow is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Chiirch.

JAMES B. FOX, marshal, Fostoria, was born in Eden Township, this county, January 27, 1840; son of Charles C. and Caroline B. (Boyd) Fox, the former a native of New York and the latter of Pennsylvania. Charles 0. Fox was a farmer by occupation, and a pioneer of Edeo Township. He afterward resided in Bloom and Scipio Townships, this county, and, in 1865, removed to Wyandot County, where he resided until his death; he died in 1880, at the age of seventy-eight years. His children were Almira (Mrs. Charles Gould), Jane (Mrs. Warren Green), Mary (Mrs. R. M. Reynolds), Henrietta (Mrs. William Blair), James D. and Thomas. Our subject was reared and educated in Republic, this county. He was in the late war of the Rebellion, enlisting August 11, 1862, in Company H, One Hundred and First Ohio Volunteer Infantry, participating in the battles of Perryville and Stone River; was wounded in the leg January 1. 1863, and was in hospital one year thereafter. He was next transferred to the Veteran Reserve Corps, and was honorably discharged at Trenton, N. J., July 6, 1865. He then located in Fostoria. this county, and engaged as salesman for the Fostoria Foundry, a position he held eight years. In 1874 he was elected marshal, holding the office four years_; was again elected in 1884, being the present incumbent. December 28, 1872, he married Osee, daughter of Clark and Elizabeth (Leonard) Bradford, of Loudon Township, this county, and by her he has two children: Clark and James B. Mr. Fox is a F. & A. M. , and a member of the G. A. R. Politically he is a Republican.

ABRAHAM FRUTH, clothier, Fostoria, was born in Bavaria, Germany, November 8, 1848; son of Jacob and Civilla (Shardon) Fruth, who came to America in 1854, and in 1856 settled in Loudon Township, this county, where Jacob Fruth cleared a farm of 1 24 acres, on which he resided until his death ; he died, in 1872, in his sixty- second year. Their childt-en, five in number, were Civilla, wife of Conrad' Herbert ; Susannah, wife of David Peter; Abraham; John and Augustus, all born in Germany, except Augustus. Our subject was reared in Loudon Township, this county, from eight years of age, was educated in the common schools, and remained on the old homestead until twenty-three years of age. He was married, August 22, 1871, to Charlotte, daughter of Abraham and Marv (Vesper) Peter, of Fostoria. After his marriage he purchased eighty acres of land of his father, and engaged in farming till 1876, when he came to Fostoria. Here he served as clerk in a grocery store for four years. In the fall of 1880, in company with Abraham Peter, he embarked in the business in which he is now engaged; this fii'm existed up to February, 1885, when Mr. Fruth purchased Mr. Peter's interest, and is now conducting the business alone, carrying a full line of clothing, hats, caps and gents' furnishing goods, and has a large and growing trade. Mr. and Mrs. Fruth are members of the United Lutheran Church. He is a F. & A. M. ; politically he is a Democrat.

FREDEEICK FRUTH, liquor dealer, Fostoria, was born in Bavaria, Germany, in 1824; son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Peter) Fruth. who came to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1833, and settled in Loudon Township, where they cleared and improved a farm of 100 acres, on which they lived and died. They 1-eared a family of six chikh-en: Margaret (Mrs. E. Vischer). Jacob, Elizabeth (Mi-s. A. Reinbold), Frederick, Abraham and Matthias. Oui- subject was reared and educated in Loudon Township, this county, from nine years of age. He followed farming up to 1852, in which year he went to California, where he engaged in mining for a time. He then embarked in business for himself, as a manufacturer of and dealer in wines, in El Dorado County, Cal. , where he resided till 1874. when he returned to Fostoria, Ohio, and established his present business. Mr. Fruth married, January 14, 1879, Martha, daughter of Philip Heck, by whom he has three children: William F., George W. and Nellie J. Mr. Fruth is one of the substantial citizens of Fostoria. In politics he is a Democrat.

FREDERICK M. FRUTH, farmer. P. O. Fostoria, was born in Loudon Township, this county, July 17, 1848; son of Jacob and Sarah (Stevens) Fruth, the former a native of Germany, the latter of Pennsylvania. His paternal grandfather, Jacob Fruth, a native of Germany, and his maternal grandfather, Benjamin Stevens, a native of "Washington County, Penn. , both settled in Loudon Township, this county, in 1832. Benjamin Stevens, a prominent man in the township, was one of the first trustees elected, and held the office of justice of the peace, and many other official positions. Jacob Fruth, father of our . subject, was a resident of Loudon Township fi-om 1832 until his death; he died December 15, 1861, at the age of forty-six. He, Jacob Fruth, had a family of six childi-en: Frederick M., Herchel, Mary (Mrs. David Price), David, Albert and Elmer. Our subject, who has always resided in Loudon Township, was educated in the common schools. December 12, 1872, he married Angeline, daughter of Nathan and Angeline (McMann) Hatfield, of Cincinnati, Ohio, and by her he has one child - Gracie. Mr. Fruth now owns and occupies the old homestead piu'chased by his father in 1852. He is a pushing and enterprising young farmer. In politics he is a Republican.

JOHN GOOD, farmer, P. O. Bascom. was born in Richland County, Ohio, October 22, 1833; son of John and Margaret (Lambright) Good (former a native of Ohio, the latter of Maryland) who came to this county in 1834, and settled in Loudon Township on the farm now owned by Samuel Good, and there our subject's father died, in 1872, at the age of sixty-five years; his widow survives him at the age of seventy-two. Their family consisted of eleven children: Isaac (deceased), Catherine (Mrs. Joshua Dewey), John, Michael, an infant daughter (deceased), Solomon, Noah. Eli, Samuel, Andrew, Peggy A. (Mrs. Peter Pauker). Our subject, who was reared on the old homestead, when twenty-three years of age purchased eighty acres of the farm he now occupies. November 14, 1857, he married Ellen, daughter of Henry and Margaret (Sprout) Johnson, pioneers of Jackson Township, this county, and by her he has four childi-en: Hemy, Eli, Melissa A. (Mrs. Charles Kritzler) and Alice E. Mr. Good is the owner of a fine farm of ISO acres, 160 of which are improved (140 cleared by himself). He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically he is a Republican.

MARTIN V. GREEN, door, sash and blind manufacturer, Fostoria, was born in Scipio Township, this county, February 21, 1834, son of John C. and Abigail (Seely) Green, natives of New York State, and who were among the pioneers of this county. Their childi-en were six in number, f o ir of whom are now living: AVarren, Thomas S., John G. and Martin V. Our subject was reared on a farm, and educated in the schools of his day. He was married, July 5, 1857, to Margaret E., daughter of George and Elizabeth (Small) Swigart, natives of Pennsylvania, who settled in Scipio Township, this county, in 1844. In November, 1861, Mr. Green settled in Fostoria, where he has since resided. In 1869 he embarked in his present business with Thomas J. Livers, who afterward sold his interest to John A. Bunnell, who in turn sold out to Lewis Gearhert and Thomas S. Green. In 18/3 John F. Heilman, Mr. Green's brother-in-law, became associated with him under the firm name of Green & Heilman, which partnership has existed to the present time. They are manufacturers of doors, sash and blinds, moldings, plain and Gothic window frames, etc. Their factory and office are located on South Street. Mr. Green is one of the live and enterprising business men of Fostoria. He has served one term as a member of the town council. Politically he is a Democrat.

JOHN G. GREEN, stock-dealer, Fostoria, was born in Scipio Township, this covinty, April 27, 1837, son of John C. and Abigail J. (Seely) Green, who were among the pioneers of Scipio Township, where they lived and died. Our .subject remained at home with his parents until nineteen years of age. He was educated at Republic Academy, taking a four years' course of instructions.. In the fall of 1852 he came to Fostoria. and engaged in teaming, which he followed several years. During the late w^ar of the Rebellion he enlisted in September, 1861, in Company B, Fifty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, participating in the battles of Gettysburg, Chancellorsville, Shiloh and in many other engagements, and was honorably discharged in the fall of 1863. He immediateiy'veteranized, and re-enlisted in same company and regiment; was transferred fi-om Virginia to theAVestern army under Gen. Hooker, and was in the engagements at Bridgeport, Mission Ridge^uzzard's Roost and Big Shanty, where the regiment was reduced to fifty-five men. He was in the Atlanta campaign under 'Sherman, and was honorably discharged at close of the war in July, 1865. He then retiu-ned to Fostoria, and in 1866 engaged in the stock business, which he has followed ever since. He was married, November 25, 1861, to Ellen M., daughter of George H. Sheldon, a pioneer of Scipio Township, and a clergyman of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. and IVIrs. Green have five children: Frank E., Nellie, Ollie. Josie and Francis. Mr. Green is a public spirited citizen. In politics he is a Republican.

CHARLES A. GRIBBLE, photographer, Fostoria, was born in Stark County, Ohio. April 6, 1861, son of Hemy Gribble, a native of Germany, a shoe-maker by trade, and whose parents were among^the pioneers of Tuscara- Avas Coimty, Ohio. Our subject was reared and educated in Massillon, Ohio. In 1878 he entered the photograph gallery of F. B. Zay, of Findlay, Ohio, where he served an apprenticeship of two and a half years. He afterward was employed in the galleries of George Donaldson and O. P. Frees, of Tiffin, and June 1, 1884, came to Fostoria and embarked in business for himself, and has had a successful trade. Though Mr. Gribble has had but seven years' experience in his business, he is a photographer and artist not only in naine but in education, and thoroughly understands the rules of art and chiaro-oscuro and the application of art principles in lighting and posing his subjects, wherein lie the true merits of a photogra^jhic portrait. Mr. Gribble is an active member of the K. of P. Politically he is a Republican.

JOSEPH GWYNN, superintendent of the Fostoria Gas Light Company, was born in Rahway, N. J. , September 30, 1 854, son of John and Jane (Ferris) Gwynn, natives of London, England, and who came to Seneca County. Ohio, in 1862, locating at TiiJin, where they resided until their death. John Gwynn, an attorney by profession, reared a family of nine children. Our subject was reared in Tiffin, from eight years of age, and educated in the high schools and commercial college; in the year 1878 he located in Fostoria and took charge of the Fostoria Gas Works for A. L. McKaig & Co. , of Pittsbui-gh, Penn., acting as superintendent of same until June 1, 1881, at which time he made an engagement with the Ohio Central Railroad to take charge of the water works of their road, in which capacity he acted as superintendent until January 1, 1884, at which date he purchased an interest in the Fostoria Gas Light Company, and again located in Fostoria, taking his former position as superintendent and director. Mr. Gwynn married, January 21, 1885, Lou, daughter of I. N. and Harriet Mickey, of Fostoria.

ROBERT "VY. HALE, physician, Fostoria, was born in Jefferson County, Ohio, September 26, 1836, son of James and Mary (Hale) Hale (the former a native of Pennsylvania, the latter of Baltimore, Md. ), who settled in Washington Township, Hancock County, in 1836. Our subject was reared in Hancock County, and educated in the common schools; began the study of medicine with Dr. R.C.Caples, in Fostoria, in 1852; attended one course of lectures (1855-56) at the Western Reserve Medical College in Cleveland, Ohio; and graduated from the National Medical College, AVashington, D. C, in 1858. He began the practice of medicine in Fostoria with Dr. R. C. Caples in 1856, with whom he has been connected to the present time. He was acting assistant siu-geon in the United States Army from April, 1862, up to September of the same year; from May to September, 1864, he was surgeon of the One Hundred and Sixty- fourth Ohio National Guards. He also served in the capac ity of brigade surgeon of Gen. John C. Lee' s brigade. Dr. Hale was married, September 15, 1858, to Louisa Conoway, daughter of John and Charlotte (Caples) Conoway, of Fostoria, and by her has had four children : Cora (deceased), John C. , Mabel and Robert AY. , Jr. The Doctor and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a F. & A. M., and a member of the G. A. R. Politically he is a Republican.

JOHN C. HARTLEY, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Washington County, Penn., April 25, 1828, son of Benjamin and Catherine (Rake) Hartley, the former a native of Virginia and the latter of Washington County, Penn., and who settled in this county in 1831, where the father of our siibject entered 160 acres of land, which he cleared and improved, and here resided until his death; he died August 8, 1882, in his eighty-eighth year. Benjamin Hartley was married three times, first to Sarah Middleton, and by this union he had one daughter, Harriet (deceased). By his second wife (nee Catherine Rake) he had the following children: Eliza, Mrs. David Rosier; Simon I.; Sarah A., Mrs. Robert Mullert (deceased); SiTsannah, Mrs. Eli Huff; John C. ; Mary; Elizabeth, Mrs. John W. Griffith; Catherine, Mrs. John Rainey: and Benjamin (deceased). By his third wife (nee Eliza Fox) he had eleven children, of whom foiar survive: Rebecca (Mrs. John Greenbrier), Hannah, Elias and Sylvester. Our subject, who was reared in Loudon Township fi-om three years of age, was educated in the common schools and Heidelberg College, of Tifi&n. He has always engaged in farming. He was married, September 1 1 . 1856, to Susannah D.. daughter of Aaron and Mary (Devilbiss) Cover, who were among the early settlers of Loudon Township. By this union there were ten children: Aaron B. (deceased), James Casper, Thomas B., Charles W., Ada C, Eliza J., Mary Elizabeth, John "W., Martha Emily and Arvie D. Mrs. Hartley died September 8, 1884, at the age of forty-five years, four months and four days. Mr. Hartley has filled several of the minor offices of his township. Politically he is a Democrat.

P. W. HATHAWAY^ of the firm of Hathaway. Campbell & Co. . proprietors of planiiig-mill, and sash, door and blind manufacturers. Fostoria, was born in Bristol County, Mass. , May 9, 1822, son of Philip and Didamia Hathaway, who settled in Sandusky County; Ohio, in 1834, clearing and improving a farm on which they lived and died. In 1852 our subject settled in Montgomery Township, Wood Co. , Ohio, where he cleared and improved a farm, on which he resided up to 1 873, when he located in Fostoria, and embarked in mercantile business, which he conducted for several years, one year of this time in Jerry City, Wood Co., Ohio. In 1877 he formed a partnership with George W. Campl^ell, Jerry Nestlerode and W. H. H.Williams in his present business, the firm name being Hathaway. Campbell & Co. Nestlerode and Williams afterward sold their interests, and in 1882 James H. Campbell was admitted to the firm, the firm name continuing the same, and they are doing an extensive business. Ml-. Hathaway was twice married, first, in 1844, to Rhoda J. , daughter of Ebenezer and Margaret Gould, of Sandusky County, Ohio, by whom he had seven children: Josephine, Philip, Morrice. Fanny (deceased), Margaret. Ella and Clara. He was married, on second occasion, in 1 877, to Catherine Bernard, of Fostoria. MJr. Hathaway is a member of the Disciple and his wife of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Hathaway, during the late war of the Rebellion, enlisted, in 1 8(54, in the 1 00 days" service, and was commissioned captain of Company K, One Hundi-ed and Forty-fomih Ohio National Guards, and after serving his time received an honorable discharge. He is a member of the G. A. R. He is now serving his seccmd term as councilman of Fostoria. Politically he is a Republican.

CHARLES HAYS, druggist. Fostoria. was born in Fostoria. this county. March 20, 1851, son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Mickey) Hays. His paternal grandfather, Henry Hays, a native of Pennsylvania, was a pioneer of Perry Township. Wood Co., Ohio, where he settled in 1834 and died April 10. 183*. His maternal grandfather. Jeremiah Mickey, a native of Pennsylvania, came to what is now Fostoria in 1832. The father of our subject located in Fostoria in an early day and engaged in farming; he taught school for many years and was also engaged in the hotel business; he was married, November 29, 1849, and died February 27, 1869, in his forty-seventh year, his children were five in number, of whom two are now living: Charles and Frederick. Our subject, who was reared and educated in Fostoria. at the age of nineteen went to Cleveland and entered the drug establishment of Strong, Cobb & Co. . with whom he remained up to 1874. He then retiu'ned to Fostoria and served as bookkeeper for W. H. Grapes & Co. for three years. In 1878 he and his uncle, David Hays, purchased the drug business of Charles Park, which they conducted up' to 1884, when om* subject became sole proprietor, and has since done a successful business. Mr. Hays, by his uniform courtesy, has made hosts of friends and customers. In politics he is a Republican.

FRANK HAYS, publisher of the Democrat, Fostoria, was born in Fostoria. this county. April 24. 1853, son of Marshall and Margaret (Musser) Hays, natives of Pennsylvania and among the pioneers of Fostoria. Oiu* subject was reared in his native town and educated in its common schools and at the Normal school at Republic. In 1873, 1874 and 1875 he was engaged in the lumber interests: during the year 1875 he embarked in the newspaper business, and iu the fall of that year began the publication of the Fostoria Democrat with R. C. Meyer, with whom he was associated fom- years, then purchased his partner's interest and has since conducted the entei-prise himself, his paper being one of the liveliest and newsiest sheets published in this section of the State. Mr. Hays was foreman for several years in the fire department of Fostoria, with which he was connected ten years.

JOHN F. HEILMAN, sash and blind manufacturer, Fostoria, was born in York County, Penn. , November 1. 1817: son of Philip and Catherine (Klatfelter) Heilman. He was reared on a farm in his native State, where he received a common school education. He was married, February 16, 1843, to Cynthia E., daughter of George and Elizabeth (Small) Swigart, natives of Pennsylvania, who settled in Scipio Township, this county, in 1844. The issue of this union was five children: George E., Thomas C, Nellie B.. John W. (deceased) and Lola M. (deceased). Shortly after his man-iage Mr. Heilman came to this county and settled in Bloom Township, where he farmed up to 1865, when he was elected auditor of this county, an office he held two successive terms. In 1873 he located in Fostoria and formed a partnership with M. V. Green in the door, sash and blind business, in which he has been engaged to the present time. ]\Ii'. Heilman is one of the representative citizens and biTsiness men of Fostoria. In politics he is a Democrat. IVIi's. Heilman is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

JOHN HEILMAN, farmer and stock-dealer, P. O.. Fostoria, was born in Bavaria, Germany, in June, 1842. son of William and Margaret (Fruth) Heilman, who immigrated to America in 1848. settling in Loudon Township, this county, where they resided until their death. Our subject was reared in Loudon Township fi'om five years of age, and received a limited education in the common schools. At twenty years of age he piu-chased the farm where he now resides, and on which he has made many improvements, erecting all his present buildings. He was united in marriage, March 23, 1862, with Margaret, daughter of George and Margaret (Shobach) Fruth, who settled in Loudon Township, this coimty, in 1833. By this union there are six children living: \Villiam. Lillie. Mary, Sarah. George and Curtis. IVIr. and Mrs. Heilman are attendants of the Lutheran Church. He has served his township thi-ee years as justice of the peace. He is a F. & A. M. : politicallv a Republican.

ADAM HELFRICK. farmer, P. O. Fostoria, "was born in Hessen- Darmstadt, Germany. January 22. 1826. son of Jacob and Catherine (Smith) Helfi'ick, who immigrated to America in 1835, and located in Carroll County, Ohio, where they resided three years. In 1839 they came to this county and settled on Section 18. in Loudon Township, clearing and improving the farm now owned by our subject. The father died in Fostoria in 1868. at the age of seventy-two, and the mother in 1847, aged forty -four years. They reared a family of four childi-en: Adam. Margaret (IMi-s. John Peter), Catherine (Mrs. "William H. Hample) and Elizabeth (Mrs. Michael Miller, deceased). Our subject was reared in Loudon Township fi'om thirteen years of age. He remained with his parents until his marriage. Sej^tember 21, 1852, with Charlotte, daughter of Abraham and Barbara (Shobach) Peter, early settlers of Loudon Township. After his marriage, Mr. Helfrick settled on the farm on which he has since resided. Mr. and Mrs. Helfi'ick have two children: Catherine (wife of George Mertel) and Albert. Our subject and wife are

C. A. HENRY, physician. Fostoria, was born in^ Perry Township, ^^'ood Co., Ohio, January 5, 1844, son of Hosea and Nancy (Smith) Henry. His paternal grandfather, Benai Henry, a native of New Hampshire, a farmer by occupation, was a pioneer of Perry Township, Wood Co., Ohio, where he lived and died. His maternal grandfather, Charles Smith, was a native of Pennsylvania, a veteran in the war of 1812, and one of the first settlers of Montgomery Township, "Wood County, where he cleared and improved a farm on which he lived and died; his widow died in February. 1885, in her ninetyseventh year. Hosea Henry, the father of our subject, was a pioneer of Perry Township, where he cleared and improved a farm of 195 acres, on which he lived until he died, in 1888, at the age of seventy-six years. Hosea and Nancy Henry had six children: Orrin; Charles A. ; Thomas, who resides on the old homestead; Lorinda, wife of James Lusk (deceased); Perry; and Alice, wife of Dr. David Fruith. Three of the sons were in the army diiring the civil war: Orrin, Thomas and C. A. Our subject was reared oh the old homestead and received his early education in the common schools. He enlisted in 1864, in Company E, One Hundred and Forty-fonrth Ohio Volunteer Infantry; served six months when he was honorably discharged. In 1 865 he began reading medicine in the office of Dr. C. R. Rosendale, of Mill Grove, Ohio. Avith whom he remained three years. He attended a course of lectures in Cincinnati, in the winter of 1866-67, and gi-aduated there in 18/0. In 1871 he located in Fostoria, this county, and began the practice of medicine with Dr. A. C. Williams, with whom he was associated ten years. He then formed a partnershif) with Dr. Park L. Myers, with whom he is still associated. Dr. Henry, one of the leading physicians of Fostoria, is thoroughly wedded to his profession, and, by strict attention to business and uniform courtesy to all, he has made many friends and has built up an extensive practice. He was married. January 6, 1870, to Harriet M.. daughter of Benjamin and Hannah (Kinneman) Crone, of Ashland, Ohio, by whom he has one child, Charles A. The Doctor is a member of the Masonic fi'aternity. Politically he is a stanch Republican, and is now serving his second term as member of the Fostoria council.

COL. LYMAN J. HISSONG, dry goods merchant, Fostoria, was born in Richland County, Ohio, April 1, 1839, son of John and Rachael (Spade) Hissong, natives of" Pennsylvania and pioneers of Richland County. Our subject, who was reared and educated in his native county, at the age of twenty, located in Hancock County, Ohio, and engaged in farming and as clerk in a store for two years. He next moved to Napoleon, Henry Co., Ohio, where he clerked in a dry goods store until the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion. Then, October 21, 1861, he enlisted in Company I, Sixty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, was appointed orderly sergeant, serving with the regiment two years, participating in the battles of Fort Donelson, Corinth, luka and others. In the spring of 1868 he was commissioned captain of the Fifth Heavy Artillery, in Gen. T. H. J. Wood's Division. After the surrender of Vicksburg and Jackson, Miss., he was taken on the staff of Maj. Gen. Osterhaus. as provost-marshal for the noi-thern district of Mississippi, with headquarters at Jackson. In the massacre at Milliken's Bend, La., June 7, 1863, Col. Hissong was severely wounded by a bullet shot in the thigh, a trophy which he still carries. For meritorious service in this battle his friends in Richland County presented him with a silk banner which went with him through the war and is still in his possession. After this he was promoted to major and soon to lieutenant-coloneL by Secretary Stanton, and commanded the post at Vicksburg, Miss. , for over a year. After the troops were mustered out he was retained on general court-marshal duty at Vicksburg about four months. About the close of the war he was commissioned full colonel, by brevet, by Andrew Johnson for meritorious services rendered at the battle of Milliken' s Bend. He left the service in June, 1860. Col. Hissong was engaged in mercantile business in Hancock County, and at Napoleon, Ohio, for eight years thereafter. In 1875 he located in Fostoria, this county, and embarked in the dry goods business, -here, which he has continued successfully to the present time. He owns a fine store at North Baltimore, and also at Ottawa, Ohio, where he is doing an extensive business. He was married, in March, 1868, to Jennie, daughter of Thomas and Margaret (Heller) Carr, of Hancock County, Ohio, and by her he has one child, Harry. Mr. Hissong is a member of the I. O. O. F. and the G. A. R. He is a charter member of the First National Bank of Fostoria. Politically he is a Repu])lican.

WILLIAM T. HISTE, ex-county commissioner, Fostoria, was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, September 26, 1826. and came here with his parents, George and Sarah (Sawlaw) Histe, who settled in Fostoria, Ohio, in 1844. His father, a brick-maker and wheelwright by trade, for several years after coming here worked at cabinet-making, after which he manufactured brick for upward of twenty-five years; he died November 5, 1884, in his eighty-fifth year; his widow survives him at the age of eighty-three. They had a family of eight children: Maria, wife of George Miller; William T. ; Matilda, wife of Joseph England; Cordelia, wife of Daniel Weaver; Catharine, wife of J. Q. Albert; F. Marion; Sarah A., wife of Theodore Brown, and Benjamin F. Oui- subject was reared and educated in his native county. He was married. May 1."), 1851, to Mary, daughter of William and Rebecca (Lytle) Noble, of Jackson Township, this county, by whom he has two children: Isabel, wife of Jeremiah Blosser, and Cecelia, wife of Cassius C. Beedle. In 1851 Mr. Histe embarked in the manufacture of brick which he carried on at intervals, up t(^ 1865, when he engaged in farming in Jackson Township, living there until the spring of 1871, when he returned to Fostoria and resumed the manufacture of })riek which he continued for three years. Then for a year (1874), he was in the furniture business. In the fall of 1878 he was elected to the office of county commissioner, re-elected in 1881, his term expiring December 1, 1884. In politics he is a stanch Democrat.

EDWARD B. HOWELL, proprietor of Central Hotel, Fostoria, was V)orn in Susquehanna County, Penn., November 24, 1828; son of Samuel and Laiu-a (Robinson) Howell, natives of New York and who settled in Fostoria, Ohio, in 1845. Samuel Howell, a tanner by trade, conducted a tannery in that part of Fostoria known as Risdon, for five years, when he retired from business. He was succeeded by his sons Edward B. and Royal R. , who carried on the business for several years. Samuel Howell died in 1871 at the age of seventy-eight years, and his wife in 1852 at the age of fifty-six. Their children, eight in number, were as follows: Caroline (deceased), Charles (deceased), Mary (Mrs. John T. Ford, of Chillicothe, Mo.), Edward B., Marcus W. (a resident of California), William (also residing in California), Royal R. and Eliza (deceased). Our subject located in Fostoria in 1847, and with his brother Royal R. conducted a tannery for t\<'o years. In 1853 he purchased a saw-mill in Caroline, this county, which he operated for a year and a half, when he moved to Findlay, Ohio, where he resided for eighteen years (nine years of this time he was in the employ of what is now known as the Indiana, Bloomington & Western Railroad Company). In 18 <4 he returned to

Fostoria. where he has lived (with the exception of two years spent in Tiffin) ever since. In 1882 he embarked in the hotel business.' in which he has been siiccessfnlly engaged to the present time: his hotel, known as the "Central." having the reputation of being the best $1.50 per dav house in this section of the State. Mi-. Howell was married. November 25. 1 849. to Charitv. dauo-hter of Jacob and Charlotte Kinnaman. of Fostoria. this countv. and bv her he has three children: Corwin B., Willis P. and Nellie M. Mr. and Mrs.' Howell are members of the Congregational Church. He is a member of the I. O. O. F Politically he is a Republican.

WILLIS P. HOWELL, dentist. Fostoria, was born in Caroline, this county, May 18. 1855, son of Edward and Charity (Kinnaman) Howell. He was reared and educated in Findlay, Ohio. In 1874 he began the studv of dentistry- in the office of J. A. Stockton, of Lima, and in 1875 went to Tiffin and entered the dental office of Dr. P. J. Kinnaman. He received a certificate from the Ohio State Board of Dental Examiners in 1878. In 1877 he beo-an the practice of his profession, and in 1 870 formed a copartnership with J."f. O'Brien, with whom he was associated up to Februarv. 1885. Dr. Howell was united in man-iage. May 25, 1882. with Matilda C," daughter of John and Philibena (Reise) Andes, of Fostoria, Ohio. Dr. Howell has built up a o-ood practice. Politically he is a Republican. ^

JUNIUS Y. JONES, attorney, Fostoria, was born in Gallia County. Ohio, January 28, 1823, son of James and Priscella (Blagg) Jones, natives 'of Virginia and pioneers of Perry Township, Wood Co. . Ohio, where they settled in 1882, clearing and improving a farm on which they lived and died. Thev reared a family of nine childi-en: Gideon (deceased). Elizabeth (deceased)'. Emily (deceased). Hiildah (deceased). Simpson, Virginia (wife of Joseph Eckels), Junius V.. William H. and Seneca (deceased). Oiu- subject was reared in Periy Township fi'om ten years of age, and was educated in the select school of Fostoria under the instruction of Warren P. Noble. In 1846 he settled in Fostoria. this county, where he has since resided. In 1858 he was elected justice of the peace, which office he held for five consecutive terms of three years each, and during this time he began the study of law. was admitted to the bar in 1868. and to practice in the United States Courts April 12. 187/. He was man-ied. in 184/, to Maria, daughter of Michael Musser. of Wood County. Ohio, and the issue of this union was seven childi-en: Edwin. Charles. Will. Harry. Parley, Clara and Bert. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Chirrch. jVIi-. Jones was elected mayor of Fostoria in 1878. serving one term of two years, and has filled various other offices of trust. Politically he is a Republican.

THOMAS KELLEY. retired farmer. Fostoria. was born in Huntingdon Coimty. Penn.. April 6. 1800, son of Charles and Jemima (Crownover) Kelley. who settled on a farm four miles from Wooster, Ohio, in 1811. Oiu- subject, fi-om eleven years of age was reared in Wooster. and was there educated. In 1881 he located in A^'ashington Township, Hancock County (had the honor of naming the township), and entered 160 acres of land, which he cleare'd and improved, and where he lived up to 1856. when he sold his fai-m and moved to Fremont, Ohio, residing there until 1866, when he came to Fostoria. He was twice married, first in July. 1828. to Catherine, daughter of John Lora. of Wayne County. Ohio, by whom he had seven childi-en: John (deceased). Amanda (wife of Ambrose Corey). Sydna I. (wife of Philip Faulhaber). Sarah (wife of Thaddeus Ball), Minerva (wife of Christian German). Charles and Albert. Mr. Kelley was maiTied on second occasion in Fremont, Ohio, in 1862, to Mrs. Emily G. Boren. widow of Levi E. Boren and daughter of

James and Hettie (Ciilbertson) Prebles. Mr. Kelley is a prominent citizen of Fostoria. In polities he lias always been a stanch Democrat, casting his first vote for Andi-ew Jackson.

MARTIN KIXGSEED. retired merchant, Fostoria, was born in Bavaria, Germany, November 19, 1817; son of Anton and Margaret (Rauth) Kingseed, the former born in Dreyson, palatinate of Bavaria. June 26, 1796; the latter in Boerstadt, July 28. 1796; they were married, January 26, 1816, and settled in Boerstadt, w^here Anton Kingseed followed the trade of cabinet-maker. In 1832 they immigrated to America, locating in Hambiu-g, Berks Co. , Penn. . and in 1832 they moved to Pine Grove, Schuylkill Co., Penn., and engaged in farming. In 1834 they sold out and came by wagon to Ohio, locating in Seneca Township, this county, where Anton Kingseed jDurchased ninety-six acres of land, which he cleared and improved, and which he still resides on at the age of eighty- nine years. Anton and Margaret Kingseed were the parents of ten childi-en, seven of whom survive: Martin. Peter, Christian, Margaret, Elizabeth, Sophia and Anthony. Anton Kingseed was twice man-ied; on second occasion, in. 18-17, to Catherine Bauer, of Seneca Township, this county, and by her he had three childi'en: Joseph. Emilia and Catherine. Emilia is matron of the homestead and Anthony has charge of the farm. Martin, the subject of this sketch, was seventeen years of age when he came to this county. Being endowed by nature with a strong healthy body and iron will he made himself useful at home until twenty-five years of age. After the death of his mother he worked six j-ears in a saw-mill on the river, and January 2. 1847. he was nearly killed by a log rolling on him, and May 6 following he was found under another log. which accident laid him up for some time, and the effects of which he feels to this day. He then assisted in siu-veying the railroad fi-om Belief on taine to Union City for nine months. He was married, September 17, 1850, to Elmira E., daughter of Michael and Anastatia (Arnold) Noel. of Wyandot County, Ohio, and to this union were born eight childi'en: Lewis A. (deceased), Charles E.. Frank D., ZenobiaM.. Mary C. William A.. Ella N. and Anna M. After his marriage Mr. Kingseed located in Tiffin. Ohio, and clerked in the hardware store of John G. Gross six years; then traded his i:)ropei*ty in Tiffin to Mr. Gross for a stock of hardware in Fostoria, this county, and removed there in October, 1855, where he was actively engaged in business up to August 1, 1884, when he retired, his son, Frank D., being his successor. Mr. Kingseed is universally esteemed by all who know him. Politically he is a Democrat.

FRED KINNAMAN, of the firm of M. Kinnaman, art and fancy goods store, Fostoria, was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, September :>. 1833; son of Jacob and Mary (Whitmore) Kinnaman (the former a native of Connecticut, the latter of New Jersey), who settled in Wood County, Ohio, in the fall of 1833, locating in Perry Township, where they pui-chased a tract of 1,800 acres of land and cleared and improved a farm on which Jacob Kinnaman resided until 1859, in which year he moved to Mill Grove, and there died in 1863. at the age of eighty- nine years. He reared a family of twelve children, of whom five survive: Jackson P. and PeiTy I., physicians of Tiffin, Ohio; Fred; Charity, Mrs. E. B. Howell; and Mary. Mrs. Christian Myers, of California. Our subject was reared and educated in Ashland County. Ohio, and lived there up to 1861. He then moved to Mill Grove, and in 1863 located in Findlay, Ohio, where he lived until 1879; since 1871 he has been engaged in his present business. He was married, October 14, 1852, to Kate Hettinger, of Bellville, Richland Co., Ohio., by whom he has three children: C. Frank. Wilber M. and Harry R. Mr. Kinnaman is a member of the I. O. O. F. In politics he is a Republican.

DANIEL KISER. retired farmer. P. O. Fostoria, was born in Stark County, Ohio, April 20, 1822; son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Grove) Kiser who came to Seneca County in 1884 and settled in Loudon Township, where the father entered 100 acres of land from the Government, which, with the assistance of his sons, he cleared and improved. The country at 'that time was a wilderness, and they had to hew a road through the woods for thirteen miles to get on their land. Jacob Kiser died in 1859, at the age of seventvtwo years, and his wife in 185 i, at the age of seventy-one. They had a family of eleven children. Our subject was reared in Loudon Township, this countv from ten years of age, and received a limited education in the schools of his day. He remained at home with his parents until twenty years of ao-e when he started out for himself. April 20, 1843, he married Nancy A ' daughter of James and Agnes (Bunting) Scott, of Loudon Township, this county, and by her he had nine children: Andrew J., Lorenzo, Loquiner Leander, Alfred, Ira, Sarah J. (Mrs. Joseph Vai^ Fossen), Libbie and Elmer." Of these Andrew J. and Lorenzo served in the late war, the former in the One Hundred and Twenty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantrv for eighteen months and the latter in the One Hundred and Fifty-fifth Ohio"' Volunteer Infantry, 'serving eleven months, both being honorably discharged at close of the war. After his marriage Mr. Kiser rented a farm for three years, and in 1846 purchased eighty acres of land on Sections 18 and 19, which he cleared and improved, and on which he resided up to 1873, when he removed to Fostoria. where he lived two years. In 1875 he purchased the farm of seventeen acres he now occupies, and where he has resided ever since. He was a member of the United Brethren Church for forty-two years, but in the spring of 188:^ united with the Protestant Methodist Church, of which he is now olie of the trustees. Politically he has lieen a member of the Republican partv since its organization.

SAMUEL KISER. farmer. P. O. Fostoria. was born in Stark County Ohio, June 29, 1828; son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Grove) Kiser, natives of Pennsylvania, parents of eleven children, and who came to this county in 1834, settling in Loudon Township on the farm now occupied by our subject, which they cleared and improved, and on which they resided until their death. Samuel Kiser, the subject of this sketch, has resided on the old homestead since six years of age. June 20, 1850, he married Julia A., daughter of Isaac and Eleanor DeWitt, pioneers of Big S])ring Township, and%y this union there were four children: Emily (deceased), Alvin, Lou E. and Charles. Mr. Kiser has made many improvements on the old homestead since it came into his possession; has cleared forty acres of the 178 acres which comprises his farm (140 uf which are under a" high state of cultivation); in 1879 he built a fine l:)rick residence on the property, and has also erected commodious outbuildings. He has held the office of township trustee for several terms, besides other minor offices. Politically he is a Republican.

HENRY W. KONKLE, contractor, Fostoria, was born in Lehigh County, Penn. December 7, 1834, son of Henry and Hannah (S wander) Konkle. In 1838 his parents settled in Fairfield County, Ohio^ where they remained up to 1871, when they located in Lucas Comity, Ohio. Our subject came to Seneca County in 1845, and lived with his grandfather. John Swander, near Tiffin, Ohio, until twenty-three years of age. March 14, 1807, he married Emily! daughter of Baker and Ann Hale, of Hancock Countv. Ohio, and the issue of this union was one child - Nettie. Mr. Konkle learned the trade of bricklayer when a young man. which he has followed up to the present time. He located in Fostoria in 1859, and since 1860 has been actively engaged as a building contractor, many of the prominent biiikiings of Fostoria having been erected by .him, the plans for the same being also his work. From 187G to ISSO Mr. Konkle was interested in the furnitvu-e business. He is an active member of the Reformed Chnrch. He is a member of Fostoria Lodge Xo. 305. I. O. O. F. Mr. Konkle has served as member of the city conncil two years. He was in the late war of the Rebellion, having enlisted in April. 1801, in Company H. Twenty-first Ohio Yolnnteer Infantiy, and was honorably discharged.

FRED IvOSS. manufacturer. Fostoria, was born in Grubenhagen, Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg, Germany ^ November 4. 1846, son of John and Mary (Hennig) Koss. Our subject was reared and educated in his native land, where he served an apprenticeship of three years at the carpenter's trade. In 1869 he immigrated to America, settling in Fostoria. Ohio, where he worked at his trade uj) to 1880. when he became associated with Jacob Mergenthaler in the planing-mill, and manufacturing of sash, doors, blinds, etc.. in which he is engaged at the present time.^ Mr. Koss was united in marriage, October 18, 1871, with Mary, daughter of Louis and Mary (Goodyear) Karg, of Findlay, Ohio, and by her he has three childi-en: Charles. John and Augusta. Mr. and JMrs. Koss are members of the German Lutheran Church. He is a member of the Royal Arcaniim: politicallv a Democrat.

CHARLES ^V. LYTLE. farmer. P. O. Fostoria, was born in Chili, Monroe Co., X. Y., November 8. 1827, son of Daniel and Betsey (Foster) Lytle, the former a native of Rhode Island, and the latter of Massachusetts. He was reared and educated in his native county, and in 1854 located in Fostoria, Ohio, and entered the store of C. Foster & Co. , where he served in the capacity of clerk up to 1868, since which time he has been engaged in farming and various other business enterprises. He was united in marriage in April, 1857, with Frances M. . daughter of Frederick and Christina' (Kempher) Febles, of Jackson Township, this county, by whom he has tlu-ee chiklren: Jennie M. , Frederick D. and Emina A. Mr. Lytle. one of the substantial farmers and citizens of Loiidon Township, is a member of the I. O. O. F. Politically he is a Republican.

EDWARD MARKS, ice dealer and proprietor of bottling works. Fostoria, was born in Big Spring Township, this county, in February, 1851: son of Nicholas and Theresa (Kehl) Marks, natives of Germany, who settled in Big Spring Township in 1849, where Nicholas Marks, a farmer by occupation, cleared and improved the farm on which he still resides. Their childi'en were seven in number: Nicholas. Edward. Elizabeth (Mrs. John Walker), Anna (Mi-s. Joseph Hackenrader). Thomas, Michael and Aggie. Our subject was reared on the old homestead, ediicated in the common schools, and remained with his parents until twenty-one years of age. He learned the plasterer's trade in Tiffin. Ohio, which he followed three years and a half. In 1872 he came to Fostoria and entered the store of Nye & Cooper as clerk. The same year he bought Mr. Cooper' s interest in the business, which was then conducted under the firm name of Nye & Marks for several years, after which he engaged in the liquor business. In 1881 Mr. Marks became interested in a large bottling establishment of this city, of which he is now sole proprietor, and he lias also for several years been engaged in the ice trade, having put up over 4,000 tons this season. Mr. Marks was married, in 1874. to Josephine, daughter of Peter Dumond, of Adi'ian, Ohio, and by her he has one child - Rossie. Mr. Marks is one of the entei-prising and public spirited citizens of Fostoria. He is a Democrat in politics. He and his wife are members of the Catholic Church.

native of Germany, a farmer by occnpation, and who was a pioneer of Loudon Township, this connty. where he cleared and improved a farm, on which he lived and died. Onr subject, who was reared in his native township, when nineteen years of age, left home and served an apprenticeship of four years at the carpenter's trade, which occupation he followed up to 1881, when, with J. S. Bowers, he engaged in the planing, door, sash and blind manufacturing business. In 1882 Fred Koss bought the interest of Mr. Bowers, and since that time the business has been conducted under firm name of Mergenthaler & Koss, who by strict attention to business have built up a large and extensive trade. Mr. Mergenthaler was married, in the fall of 1801, to Mary Karl, of Fostoria, by whom he has four children : Ada, William, Rollin and Ola. Mr. and Mrs. Mergenthaler are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is one of the representative business men of Fostoria. In politics he is a Democrat.

MELCHER MERGENTHALER. carriage manufacturer, Fostoria, wa.s born in Lotidon Township, this connty, July 19, 1841. His father, Gottfried Mergenthaler. a native of Germany, settled in Loudon Township, this county, in 1834, and here Melcher was reared and educated. Our subject, at the age of eighteen, came to Fostoria. where he served an apprenticeship at wagonmaking for three years with George Gehr. Esq. He then worked as journeymau. till 1865, when he embarked in biisiness for himself, in which he has successfully engaged to the present time. Our subject was united in marriage, July 19, 1863, with Catherine, daughter of Henry Bucher, of Loudon Township, this county, and by her he has three children: Andrew, assistant cashier in the First National Bank; Charles and Rella. Mr. and Mrs. Mergenthaler are members of the Presbyterian Church. Politically he is a Democrat.

JAMES L. MICKEY, farmer and stock-dealer, Fostoria, was born in what is now Ashland County, Ohio, November 10, 1831; son of Jeremiah and Sarah (Loman) Mickey, the former a native of Pennsylvania, the latter of Maryland. His paternal grandfather. Daniel Mickey, was a native of Pennsylvania and a pioneer of Ashland (bounty. Ohio, and his maternal grandfather. Richard Loman, formerly of Maryland, was a pioneer of Perry Township, Wood Co., Ohio, where he lived and died. The parents of our subject settled in what is now Fostoria. Ohio, in 1832. His father who engaged in mercantile business, during the cholera excitement of 1834, went with his family to Richland Coimty, but soon returned, and in 1835 embarked in the hotel business, his hotel being the first in what was then known as Risdon. He conducted the hotel until 1841, when he was killed in a ditch by a bank caving on him. His family consisted of sis children: Elizabeth (Mrs. Thomas Hays), James L., Sarah (deceased), Isaac N., William (deceased) and Richard (deceased). Our subject was reared and received a common school education in Fostoria. He succeeded to the hotel business of his father, which he conducted up to 1856, when he engaged in the lightning rod industry, following it four years. In April, 186 b he was appointed postmaster of Fostoria, which position he held up to October, 1870. He then purchased a farm in Loudon Township, this county, and engaged in stock business. In 1873 he erected one-third of the brick building known as the Mickey Block, his division comprising two. stores, three stories high, each 22x75 feet. Mr. Mickey was married, in 1862. to Mary, daughter of David H. Edgar, of Dunkirk. Ohio. The issue of this luiion was five children: Harry, Claude, Newion, Charles and Don. Mr. Mickey is now holding the office of township treasurer, which he has filled for several terms. He is a F. & A. M. Politically he is a Republican.

reared and educated in his native county, and served an apprenticeship of two years at the miller's trade in Adams County, Penn. ; in the winter of 1847-48 he located in Fostoria, Ohio, and in 1848 purchased a farm of eighty acres in -Jackson Township, this county. He was a miller in Carbaugh's mill, at Fostoria, in 1848. and later in the mill of Roswell Crocker; was afterward employed for several years as collector for Foster & Son. He then embarked in mercantile business on his own account, in which he continued up to 1863. In iS69 he was elected to the office of clerk of Seneca County, a position he held for two consecutive terms. In 1876 he erected the Keystone Block, the building being 22x90 feet, and two stories high. In 1842 Mr. Millhime was married to Mary, daughter of Jacob and Mary (Bair ) Throne, of Hanover, Penn. , by whom he had five children: Edwin (died of fever at Camp Xevins during the late war of the Rebellion); Lucinda (deceased); Emma, wife of Christian Kistner; Mary, wife of Samuel Drenuing, and James B. Mr. Millhime has been assessor of Fostoria for several terms. He is one of the public spirited citizens of the place, always alive to its interests. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and of the K. of H. Politically he is a Democrat.

JOHN P. MUENCH, grocer, Fostoria, born in Baden, Germany, November 6, 1853, sou of Jacob and Rosa (Muench) Muench, was reared and educated in his native land. His father died in 1867, and in the summer of the same year our subject, with his mother, three sisters and a brother, immigrated to America and located in Fremont, Ohio, where he served an apprenticeship of three years at the painter's trade. He then moved to Toledo, where he worked at his trade one year, after which he went to Coldwater, Mich., and there worked at his trade three months. In the fall of 1874 he located in Fostoria, this county, and followed his trade ten years. April 1, 1884, Mr. Muench embarked in the grocery business in which he has been successfully engaged to the present time. He has been twice married. His first wife, to whom he was married August 29, 1876, was Catherine, daughter of Nicholas and Margaret Walters, of Fostoria, and who bore him one child - William. Our subject was married on second occasion, November 25, 1880, to Rosa, daughter of John and Theresa (Mainzer) Onieser, of Sandusky County, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Muench are members of the German Lutheran Church. Politically he is a Democrat.

DANIEL AV. MUSSER, liveryman, Fostoria, was born in Ravenna, Portage Co., Ohio, April 13, 1831, son of Jacob and Syndonia (Garrison) Musser. Jacob Musser. a pioneer blacksmith of Ravenna, settled in West Millgrove, Wood Co., Ohio, in 1855. and died there in 1870. Our subject settled in Fostoria in 1858, and embarked in the livery business in which he has continued up to the present time and is the oldest established liveryman in the place. In 1861 he was united in marriage with Savannah, daughter of George and Mary Buchtel, of Fostoria, this county, and by her he has three childi'en: Ida M. , James W. and Hattie D. Mr. Musser is one of the prominent citizens of Fostoria and is widely known. He pays strict attention to his business interests, and is courteous and obliging to all who may favor him with their patronage. Politically he is a Republican.

PARK L. MYERS, physician, Fostoria. was born in Fostoria, this county. May 28, 18<)0. son of Jacob J. and Rachel A. (Harsh) Myers, the former a native of Allegheny County, Penn., and the latter of Carroll County, Ohio. His paternal grandfather, John Myers, was a native of Germany and a pioneer farmer of Allegheny County, Penn. His maternal grandfather, John Harsh, was a pioneer of Carroll County. Ohio, and later of Seneca County, Ohio. Th:^ father of our subject, who was a wagon maker by trade, settled in

Fostoria about 1848, where he worked as a journeyman for several years: then embarked in business for himself, continiiing in the same till his death in 1875. His family consisted of five childien: Eva (Mrs. Dr. F. J. Schaufelberger), Bruce M., Ralph (deceased). Park L. and Lulu. Our subject was reared in Fostoria, this county, where he received his early education. He began the study of medicine in the office of Williams & Hemy, in Fostoria, in 1875, and m 1876 entered the medical de]3ai-tment of the Wooster University, of Cleveland, Ohio, where he took one course of lectures. In 1878 he entered the Ohio Medical College of Cincinnati, graduating therefi-om in 1879. He afterward took a course in 1879-80, and in July, 1880, began the practice of medicine in Fostoxla. In 1881 he formed a partnership with Dr. C. A. Hem-y, with whom he is associated at present. Dr. Myers is a member of the K. of P. In politics he is a Republican.

CHRISTOPHER C. NESTLERODE. teacher and farmer, Fostoria, was born in Bald Eagle Yalley, Centre Co..Penn., March 1/, 1824, son of Israel and Susannah (Forrey) Nestlerode, who were natives of Lancaster County, Penn. The Nestlerode family originally came from Poland, and were Polish-Russian aristocrats, but in the famous Polish insun-ection a part of the family joined the insurgents under Kosciu-ko, a few of whom afterward fled to America to escape a rebel's death. Those who remained loyal to the Russian government were rewarded with official positions. Count Nestlerode, a cousin of the grandfather of our subject, rei^resented Russia at Washington during Jackson' s administration, and was prime minister of that country until he was nearly ninety years old. John and Christian, great-grandfather and grandfather of our subject, were in the Federal service during the Revolutionary war, and served with distinction. Israel Nestlerode, father of our subject, was the tenth of twenty-six children, and was born December 2, 1795. His youth was spent in lumbering, rafting, fishing and farming. May 22. 1823. he married Susannah Forrey, born February 15, 1801, daughter of Jacob and Susan (Lightner) Forrey, and granddaughter of John Forrey, a native of France. Israel Nestlerode and wife came to PeiTy Township, Wood Co.. Ohio, in 1832, purchased eighty acres of land there, and entered 170 acres in Jackson Township, Seneca County, comprising a farm of 250 acres, which, with about 390 acres more, was surrounded by a swale run. This tract of land the Indians named "the Island, " and which after Mr. Nestlerode settled on it, they called " Nestlerode' s Island, " which name it bears to this day. Mr. Nestlerode. the first actual settler of Perry Township, lived there until 1856, when he removed to Fostoria, where he died September 5. 1 879. in his eightyfourth year; his widow died December 10. 1883, in her eighty-third year. Their children were Christopher C. Margaret (deceased), Sarah (wife of Daniel Rhoad), Israel W., Jeremiah and Lafayette Marion (deceased). Oui- subject was reared in Perry Township fi'om seven years of age, and was educated for the most part in the backwoods. He attended Norwalk Seminaiy one term and Republic Academy seven terms. When seventeen years of age he began teaching in the common schools of Ohio. He taught five winters, working for his father each year during the farming season. He taught three years in the Tiflin Union Schools, and two years in the State of Arkansas. He organized the first union school west of the Mississippi, at Tipton, Iowa. He superintended the Tipton Union School five years; held the first teacher's institute ever held in Iowa. He held teachers' institutes in all the leading cities and towns of eastern and southern Iowa. He was chosen by the Iowa State Teachers' Association to represent that body at the State Board of Education, which held it first session in Des Moines, Iowa, during the winter of 1858-59. At that session the present world-renowned fi-ee school laws of Iowa were passed.

Mr. Nestlerode was invited to a seat in that body, and was made an honorary member. He rendered much valuable service to the board, and no act was passed that was not first closely examined and carefully revised by him. He for three years edited the loica Instructor, the first free school journal published in the State. He sent a copy to each school board and prominent educator in the State. He waged a merciless warfare against the " school-killers," both in the Instructor and in the school rooms, and other places where he had the time and opportunity to address the hardy and intelligent pioneers of Iowa. He spared neither effort nor money in enforcing the school laws he had so anxiously assisted in making, and which provides the means for every child, rich or poor, colored or white, to receive an education free as the air he breathes. In 1862 Mr. Nestlerode was called from his labors in Iowa (the greatest sacrifice of his life) to the home of his boyhood to minister unto his parents in their afflictions and fast-failing health, and to bear the burdens that had become too hea^y for them, which resulted in prolonging their lives nearly twenty years. The school board of Fostoria. Ohio, in the same year of his return, elected jVIr. Nestlerode to take charge of their school. He undertook the work in connection with his home duties. He found the school merely a district school, and while in that shape incapable of successful development, but nothing daunted he set about educating the people of Fostoria for a change in their school system, and never ceased his effort until the Union School Law of Ohio for cities and towns was adopted, under which he organized a union school that has grown to be one of the foremost in the State. He was married, January 5, 1871, to Mary A., daughter of Hon. Morris P. and Mary (Gorsuch) Skinner, of Fostoria, by whom he has one child - Mary Elizabeth. Mr. Nestlerode has held the office of mayor of Fostoria, secretary of the board of education, and numerous other offices. In politics he is a stanch advocate of prohibition.

JEREMIAH NESTLERODE, diaiggist and dealer in real estate, Fostoria, was born in Perry Township, Wood Co. , Ohio, June 26, 1834, son of Israel and Susannah (Forrey) Nestlerode. who settled there in 1832. Our subject was reared in his native township, and there received a common school education. He remained at home until his twenty-first year, when he engaged in farming for himself in Wood County, Ohio, which he continued up to twenty-eight years of age. In 1862 he located in Fostoria, this county, and entered general mercantile business, in which he remained fourteen years. In 1866 he opened a branch store, which he conducted for eight years in Jerry City (which was named in his honor). Wood County, Ohio. In 1874 he embarked for second time in the diy goods business in Fostoria, this county, which he followed for one year, and in 1875 was a contractor for cou.nty and railroad work. In 1877-78 Mr. Nestlerode was connected with the sash and blind manufacturing business under the firm name first of Bower & Co. , then Hathaway. Campbell & Co. In 1879 he engaged in the clothing business, and the same year bought a stock of dry goods and carried on that business for two years. He was engaged in the livery business from 1880 to 1884. In 1881 Mr. Nestlerode embarked in the drug business, in which he is still interested, and has for many years also been engaged in the real estate business, being the first in Fostoria to make that line a specialty. He was married, January 23, 1857, to Ann E. , daughter of Grafton and Rebecca Bernard, of Tiffin, Ohio. In politics Mr. Nestlerode has been a stanch Republican since the organization of the party.

setted in what is now Wyandot County in 1 S84. Our subject remained with his parents until twenty-one years of age. January 1, 1838, he was united in marriage with Elizabeth, daughter of John Ritter, of Pickaway County, Ohio, and by her he had two children, Elijah and John, the latter deceased. January 1,' 1842, Mr. Niebel married his second wife, Hannah, daughter of Henry Bish. of Fairfield County, Ohio, and by her had one child, Henry B. Our subject located in Bloom Township, this county, in an early day, and cleared a farm of 100 acres, on which he resided up to 1854, when he settled in Loudon Township, and cleared a part of the farm now occupied by his son Elijah; he also cleared another farm in the northern part of this township. He and his wife are members of the Evangelical Association. He has served as trustee of Loudon Township one term. Politically he is a Republican.

ELIJAH NIEBEL, farmer. P. O. Fostoria, was born in Berwick, this county, January 10, 1839. son of Levi and Elizabeth (Ritter) Niebel, pioneers of Seneca County. Our subject was reared in Bloom and Loudon Townships and received a limited education in the common schools. He removed fi'om Bloom to Loudon Township with his father in 1855, where, with the exception of six years, during which he resided in Fostoria, he has lived on the farm he now owns and occupies. He was in the late war of the Rebellion, enlisting October 29, 1801. in Company D, Seventy- second Ohio Volunteer Infantry ; was in the battle of Shiloh, siege of Vicksburg,' two engagements at Jackson, Miss., and was taken prisoner near Ripley, Miss., January 11, 1864, and sent to Andersonville, where he remained until the middle of September of that year, when he was transferred to Florence, S. C. ; was paroled at Goldsboro, N. C. , in March, 1805, and honorably discharged June 19, 1805, after nearly four years' service. October 3, 1805, Mr. Niebel was married to Emily, daughter of David and Hannah (Kiser) Young, pioneers of Loudon Township, this county. They had six children, fom- of whom survive: Minnie, Clara, Delia and Arthur C. Mr. Niebel, wife and daughter are members of the United Bretlii-en Chiirch. He is a member of the G. A. R. He takes great interest in education. Politically he is a Repxiblican. He is a prominent farmer and enterprising citizen; owner of a fine farm of 155 acres, 115 of which are under cultivation and thoroughly drained.

JOHN NOBLE, stave manufacturer, Fostoria, was born in Nottinghamshire, England, May 28, 1833, son of Francis and Pethia Noble. He was reared on a farm in Canada, whither his people had emigrated in 1830, settling in Brant County. When eighteen years of age, John Noble went to Paris, Canada, to learn the cooper" s trade, and in 1857 come to Sandusky County. Ohio, locating in Clyde, where he remained until 1858, when he came to Fostoria. In 1804 he formed a partnership with John W. Grifiith in the cooper business, which existed eight years. In 1871, together with his former partner, E. J. Cunningham, and"^ Charles Foster, a company was established, known as the Fostoria Stave and Ban-el Company (of which he is the present manager), which has conducted a successfid business. Mr. Noble has been twice maiTied, on the first occasion, in November, 1858, to Miss Ann Leech, who died April 3, 1801. His second maiTiage, July 13, 1803, was with Mrs. Mary E. Warner, widow of George W. Warner, and daughter of William and Mary Simons, early settlers of Seneca County, Ohio. The issue of this union was 'five children: Nellie M., Ada M., Sarah A., John W. and Lelia B. (the latter two deceased). Mr. Noble served in the late war of the Rebellion, enlisting in May, 1802, in the Eighty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served three months in West Virginia. In 1802 he joined the independent company of the Ohio National Guards, of which he was suljsequently elected lieutenant.

and to wliich he belonged until 18G4. when he entered the 100 days' service. He is now serving his sixth year as member of the town covmcil. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

JOHN H. NORRIS. physician. Fostoria, was born in Perry Township, Wood Co., Ohio, May 13, 1855, son of Hon. John and Rebecca C. (Cuthbei-tson) Norris, who were among the pioneers of that township. Our subject's father, who was a prominent citizen of Wood County, and served once from there as representative to the State Legislature, has been a resident of Fostoria since 1880. Our subject was reared on a farm and educated in the normal school at Republic. In 1874 he began the study of medicine in the oiHce of Dr. J. C. Lincoln, of Bowling Green, Ohio, with whom he remained three years; graduated fi'om the medical department of the Wooster University, Cleveland. Ohio, February 27. 1877, and began the practice of medicine at Bowling Green, in March of the same year, and there remained two and a half years. March 1, 1880, he received a post-graduate degree from Bellevue Hospital Medical College. New York, and in 1881 he located at Fostoria, where he has been in active practice ever since. Dr. Norris was married, September 20, 1882. to Anna B.. daughter of Robert Middaugh. of Canton, Ohio.^ Politically the Doctor is a Republican. He is an active member of the Masonic fraternity.

JOHN F. O'BRIEN, dentist, Fostoria, was born in Loudon Township, this county, July 4, 1855, son of Thomas and Margaret (McCarty) O'Brien, natives of Ireland, who settled in Loudon Township, this county, in May, 1851, clearing and improving a farm on which they resided up to 1870, when they removed to Fostoria. Here Thomas O'Brien engaged in railroad contracting, and built and graded a part of the Ohio Central, Baltimore & Ohio, and New York, Chicago & St. Louis Railroads; he died in May, 1878, at the age of sixty-nine years. Of his twelve children, nine attained maturity: James, Ellen (Mrs. George Emerine, deceased), Mary (Mrs. Alvin Starns), Patrick W., Margaret (wife of Rev. Thomas Parker), Kate (Mrs. O. Y. Wood), Thomas and Terrence (twins), and John F. Our subject was reared in Loudon Township, and educated in the Union Schools of Fostoria. In 187G he began the study of dentistry in the office of Dr. T. K. Williams, of Fostoria, with whom he remained fifteen months, when Dr. Williams died and he then conducted the business thereafter for one year. In 1878 he entered the Ohio Dental College, at Cincinnati, and in 1879 received a diploma from the State Board of Dental Examiners, and in April of the same year, began the practice of dentistry with W. P. Howell, with whom he has been associated to the present time. From a careful and thorough study of dentistry Dr. O'Brien has attained a thorough knowledge of his profession and bears the reputation of being a skillful and superior operator.

EPHRAIM J. PADGHAM. book-keeper, Fostoria, was born in Tenterden, county of Kent, England. June 10, 1828, son of John and Mary A. Padgham. He was reared and educated in his native land and there married, December 25, 1850, Susannah, daughter of William and Sophia Boorman, by whom he had four children, one of whom survives, Elizabeth Jane. This wife died in 1850 and our subject was again married in 1857. this time to Mrs. Eliza Johnson, widow of Samuel Johnson and daughter of Michael and Caroline Lougernecker. of this county ,- by whom he has two children: Silas S. and Zoa D. Mr. Padgham came to America in 1853 and located in Fostoria, Ohio, wTiere he clerked in the grain warehouse of Foster & Co. and was associated with the firm for several years. He was the first agent for the United States Express Company at this place, and also the first ticket and freight agent for the Fremont

& Indiana Kailroad. which position he filled for nearly twenty years. This railroad changed its name four times while he was agent. Mr. Padgham was then appointed agent for the Columbus & Toledo Kailroad and served two years. He then formed a partnership with John P. Warner and conducted a grist-mill for two years. He then engaged as book-keeper for the Fostoria spoke and bending factory, a position he now occupies. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a Reimblican in politics, and at present is serving his third term as member of the city council.

ABRAHAM PETER (deceased) was born in Bindersheim. Palatinate Frankenthal, Kingdom of Bavaria. Germany, February 5, 1821 , son of Abraham and Barbara IShobach) Peter, who came to America in 1840 and settled in Loudon Township, this county. Our subject was reared and educated in Germany and came with his parents to this country when nineteen years of age. December 24, 1843, he married Mary A., daughter of John and Elizabeth (Smilsmer) Vesper, who settled in Loudon Township in 1840, and by this union there were thirteen childi-en, of whom nine suiwive: Elizabeth (Mrs. John Romig). Margaret (I^Ii-s. Heniy Reis), Mary (Mxs. Andrew Herbert). Louisa (Mrs. Ephraim Stahl), Charlotte (Mrs. Abraham Truth), John A., Jacob, Philip and Sarah. After his manlage Mr. Peter engaged in agriculture on a rented farm for five years. In 1848 he purchased a fine farm of 1 < 5 acres on Sections 16 and 21, on which he made many improvements, residing there most of the time until 1883, when he retired from farming and moved to Fostoria. In 1852 he went to California and again in 1854, and while there engaged in stock buying and mining. He made these trips there overland, retui-ning by water. " He died in Fostoria May 7, 1883, at the age of sixty-two years. Though he started in life a poor boy, by industry, frugality and economy he accumulated a fine property. IVIr. Peter was widely known in Fostoria and siuTounding country as an upright, honest citizen. He was a respected and worthy member of the Masonic fi-aternity. In politics he was a Democrat.

JOHN PETER, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Bi.varia, Germany. May 13, 1830. son of Abraham and Barbara (Shobach) Peter, who came to America in 1840 and settled in Loudon Township, this county, on eighty acres of land now owned by E. Kinney, former of whom died in Big Spring Township in 1871, in his eighty-first year, latter in 1840, eleven weeks after her arrival in this country. They had a family of nine children: Philip; Abraham, deceased: Catherine.' Mrs. Nicholas Findel; Margaret, deceased; Maria, Mrs. Jacob Heiserman; Civilla, deceased: Barbara, Mrs. Abraham Rinebold; John; Charlotte, Mrs. Adam Helfi'ick. Our subject was reared in Loudon Township, this county, and lived at home with his father until he was twenty-three years old. He then rented the old homestead for seven years; in 1860 he moved to Henry County. Ohio, where he remained four years; retm-ned to Loudon Township in 1865 and purchased the old homestead, living here four years, and in 1869 purchased the farm of 150 acres he now occupies, fifty-five acres of which he has cleared himself, making all the improvements in buildings. April 7. 1854, Mr. Peter married Margaret, daughter of Jacob Helfilck, of Loudon Township, and by this union has four children: John J., Mary I. (Mrs. Warren Seever), Emma C. (Mrs. Adam Weasner) and Philip W. Mr. Peter and family are members of the Lutheran Church. Politically he is a Democrat.

JOHN J. PETER, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Loudon Township, this county, July 13, 1855, son of John and Margaret (Helfrick) Peter. He was reared and educated in Loudon Township. June 9, 1881, he was married to Ella E.. daughter of Solomon and Elizabeth (Alsbaugh) Ruse, of Hopewell Township, this county, and by her he has two childi'en: Otto M. and Charles A. Since his marriage Mr. Peter has been engaged in agriculture on the farm he now occupies. He is a member of the Lutheran Chiu'ch, and his wife of the Methodist Episcopal denomination. Mr. Peter, who is one of the prominent yoimg farmers of the township, is now serving his second term as township assessor. Politically he is a Democrat.

JOHN A. PETER, clerk, Fostoria, was born in Loudon Township, this county, February 15, 1854. son of Abraham and Mary A. (Vesper) Peter. His paternal grandfather. Abraham Peter, a native of Germany and a soldier under Napoleon I. came to America in 1840 and settled in Loudon Township, this county, where he resided until his death. His maternal grandfather, John Vesper, also a native of Germany, was among the pioneers of Loudon Township. Oiu' subject was reared and educated in his native township. In 1877 he located in Fostoria and engaged as clerk in the clothing store of John Wagner, with whom he remained three years. In 1880 he entered the employ of Peter & Fruth in the same capacity, remaining with the firm and its successor, A. Fruth. to the present time. He was married. August '12, 1878, to Lucy, daiighter of Nathan and Lavina (Carbaugh) Wade, of Loudon Township, and by her he has one child, Mary Luema. The paternal grandfather of Mrs. Peter was Abner Wade, who settled in Loudon Township in 1882, and was one of the organizers of the township and one of its first officials. Her maternal grandfather was Samuel Carbaugh, also a pioneer of Loudon Township. Mr. Peter is a member of the German Reformed Chiu'ch. In politics he is a Democrat.

PHILIP PETER, clerk. Fostoria. was born in Loudon Township, this county, April 16. 1863, son of Abraham and Mary A. (Vesper) Peter. Our subject, who was reared and educated in his native township, located in Fostoria in 1879, and entered the employ of Foster, Snyder & Co.. serving in the capacity of clerk for two years. In 1881 he engaged with Weaver & Adams as clerk, with whom he remained until the spring of 1885. when he engaged in the same capacity with A. Weaver, successor to Weaver & Adams, with whom he is at present. December 1, 1882, Mr. Peter was united in man-iage with Anna, daughter of George and Ellen (O'Brien) Emerine. of Fostoria. this county, and to this union has been l)orn one child - Lulu M. Mr. Peter is one of the worthy and representative citizens of Fostoria. Politically he is a Democrat.

DAVID PETER, farmer, P. O. Fostoria. was born in Loudon Township, this county, March 27, 1842, son of John J. and Elizabeth (Hahn) Peter, natives of Rhinebiern, Germany, and who came to this county in 1838, settling in Loudon Township, and entering eighty acres of land from the Government, which they cleared and improved. The father died in 1878, at the age of sixty-eight years. The mother survives him at the age of seventy-six. They had a family of nine children, of whom five survive: Henry, David. Elizabeth, Philebena (Mrs. Melcher Fruth) and Mary (Mrs. John Fruth). Our subject was reared in Loudon Township, receiving a limiteil education in the common school. May 25, 1863, he married Susannah, daughter of Jacob and Civilla (Schraden) Fruth. of Loudon Township, this covmty, by whom he has four childi-en living: John W., Louisa J., Margaret E. and David A. In August, 1866, Mr. Peter settled in Henry County. Ohio, where he engaged in farming, lumbering and teaming up to the fall of 1872, when he returned to Loiidon Township, purchasing the farm he now occupies, a pai-t of which he has cleared and whereon he has made many improvements in buildings, etc. He is one of

NICHOLAS PORTZ, hardware merchant, Fostoria, was born in Jackson Township, this county. March 1, 1839, son of John and Magdalena (Bohna) Portz, natives of Prussia, who located in Jackson Township, in 1838, where they engaged in farming. In 1 810 they settled in Fostoria, where John Portz, a wagon-maker, followed his trade until his death; he died in June, 1873, at the age of sixty- six years; he had a family of seven children, who grew to maturity: Magdalena (deceased), Catherine (Mrs. George Bridgeford), Ann M. (Mrs. Joseph Haines), Nicholas, Eva (Mrs. George Huth), George (died in the army during the late war of the Rebellion) and John. Our subject was reared and received a common school education in Fostoria. At the age of twelve years he entered the store of Foster & Son, clerking for them up to 1863, when he was admitted as a partner in the general store under the firm name of Foster, Olmsted & Co. . which partnership existed up to 1807, when he retired from the firm and embarked in the hardware business with Hon. Charles Foster, with whom he has been associated to the present time, under firm name of Portz & Co. The names of Foster i.^^ Portz have also been connected in the more extensive business known as the Fostoria Foundi-y and Machine Works. These works have recently been reorganized, adding another partner ( Walter S. Payne) with extensive lines of machinery and fixtures for manufacturing brass "goods and water works" supplies, all under the name of Walter S. Payne & Co. In this enterprise Mr. Portz will be recognized as the financial manager. Mr. Portz was married. January 10, 1807, to Hannah, daughter of Lewis and Mary (Youngker) Adams, of Findlay, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Portz are members of the Catholic (Jhurch. Politically he is a Republican.

JAMES W. QUINN. baker and grocer, Fostoria, was born in Ireland, May 8, 1837, son of 'James and Mary (Madigan) Quinn, natives of County Limerick, Ireland, and who came to this county in 1851, settling in Tiffin, where the father, a blacksmith by trade, which he followed sixty-two years, engaged in business until his death: he died in 1859, at the age of seventyeight years. Of their family of eleven children, four attained maturity: John (now deceased): James W. ; David, a resident of Tiffin, and Eugene, residing in Michigan. Our subject was reared in Tiffin, Ohio, from twelve years of age and there received a common school education. At the age of sixteen, he entered a. bakery at Tiffin, serving an apprenticeship of three years, after which he engaged in bridge-building for two seasons. He then clerked for several years in different branches of business and conducted a bakery_in Tiffin for several years more. He located in Fostoria, this county, in 18/1, and embarked in the grocery and bakery business on his own account. In 1884 he greeted the fine Ijrick building he now occupies (known as the "Quinn Block"), one of the handsomest business edifices in the city. Mr. Quinn was married, in November. 1857, to Mary, daughter of Benjamin Quinlaw, of Ireland, and by her he has had eight childi-en, six now living: James, Anna, Clara, Jessie, John and Julia. Mr. Quinn and family are members of the Catholic Church. Politically he is a Democrat.

GENERAL E. REYNOLDS, druggist, Fostoria, was born in Loudon Township, this county. December 19, 1852, son of Charles L. and Mary (Dillonj Reynolds, who were among the early settlers of Loudon Township, the former of whom, who was a resident of this county for many years, removed in 18 < 8, to Eaton County. Mich., where he now resides. Mr. and Mi's. Charles L. Reynolds had five children, of whom three are now living: General E., Jacob and McClellan. (Mrs. Charles L. Reynolds, previous to her marriage with the father of om- subject, was the wife of Eli Weaver, one of the pioneers of Loudon Township, this county, and by him had five childi-en, three now living: George, Rachel (wife of Allen Stevens) and Alpheus. ) Oiu- subject was reared on his father's farm in Loudon Township, this county, and received a common school education. At the age of eighteen he began teaching school, which occupation he followed for seven years. He then commenced the study of medicine with Dr. C. L. Cass and took one course of lectiu'es at the Physio Medical College of Cincinnati, Ohio. In 1880 he embarked in the drug business in Fostoria, this county, in company with Jerry Nestlerode. the partnership existing at the present time. He was married, July 4. 1877, to Emma E. , daughter of James R. and Rachel Williams, of Fostoria, and by her he has two children living: Nellie and Grace. Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds are members of the Methodist Protestant Church. Politically he is a Democrat.

JACOB RINEBOLD, farmer. P. O. Fostoria, was born in Perry County, Ohio, October 28. 1821, son of John and Catherine (Wininger) Rinebold. the former, a native of Pennsylvania, and the latter (still living), a native of Germany. They came from Richland County to Seneca County. Ohio, in 1834, and settled in Loudon Township, entering 100 acres of land (now occupied by Abraham Rinebold), which they cleared and improved, and where the father died; mother still living. They reared a family of four children: Elizabeth, wife of Henry Stahl; Jacob; Abraham; and Rebecca, wife of John Shontz. Our subject's great-grandfather had two sons, Heniy and Matthias, who came from Germany to America and fought in the Revolutionary war, in 1776, under Gen. Washington. Our suliject was reai'ed in Loudon Township, from thirteen years of age and received a limited education in the schools of his day. He was married, in December. 18^0. to Mary A. , daughter of John and Elizabeth (Good) Lambright, of Jackson Township, this county, by whom he has had nine children, seven now living: Noah; Elizabeth, wife of Newton Stearns; Susannah, wife of Cyris Yost: Hem-y: Mahala. wife of David Smith: Rachel, wife of Philip Wiraugh, and Jacob. Mr. Rinebold is one of the substantial citizens and farmers of Seneca County, where he has cleared and improved a part of a farm on Section 16, Jackson Township. He is a member of the Lutheran Church, his wife of the German Reformed Church. Politicallv IMi'. Rinebold is a Democrat.

ABRAHAM RINEBOLD, farmer. P. O. Fostoria, was born in Perry County. Ohio. October 13.1822. son of John and Catherine (Wininger) Rinebold, the former a native of Pennsylvania, the latter of Germany. His paternal o-randfather. Matthias Rinebold, a native of Pennsylvania, and his maternal o-randfather, Adam Wininger, a native of Germany, were pioneer citizens of Perry County, Ohio, where they lived and died. The parents of our subject came to Seneca County. Ohio, in March, 1834, settling in Loudon Township, on the farm now owned by him. The father died in 1854, at the age of fiftysix years, the mother, who still survives, is eighty-four years old. They were parents of foui- children: Elizabeth, wife of Heniy Stahl: Jacob: Abraham: Rebecca, wife of John Shonts. Oiir subject received a limited education in the district schools. AMth the excejition of ten years, during which he was a resident of Jackson Township, he has lived on the homestead since 1834, and with his brother, Jacob, assisted his father in clearing 100 acres of the old homestead, which he came in possession of in 1859; he has since purchased land adjoining, and his farm now comprises 434 acres of land, 250 of which is under cultivation. He has made many improvements on his property, erecting his present brick residence in 1871, and in 1875 erected a new frame dwelling, and. also, in 1883, another frame dwelling. Mr. Rinebold has been twice married. By his first wife, Elizabeth, daughter of Jacob and Anna E. (Peter) Frnth. of this township, he had two childi'en: Rebecca and John. By his present wife, Barbara, daughter of Abraham and Barbara (Shobach) Peter, of Loudon Township), this county, he has eight children : Catherine, wife of George Yochum : Levi, Sy villia E., wife of Frederick Rosen: Abraham: Mary L. : AnnaE. ; Ephraim and Henry (latter deceased). Mr. and Mrs. Rinebold and all the family are inembers of the Lutheran Church. He is a prominent farmer and public spirited citizen. In politics he and all the sons and sons-in-law are Democrats.

JOHN RINEBOLD. farmer. P. O. . Fostoria. was born in Jackson Township, this county, October 16, 1850, son of Abraham and Ann Elizabeth (Fruth) Rineboid. His paternal grandfather. John Rinebold, settled in Loudon Township, this county, in 1S>}4. and his maternal grandfather, a native of Germany, settled in same township in 1832. Om- subject was reared in Jackson and Loudon Townships and was educated in the common schools. March 21. 1872. he married Anna M., daughter of George and Margaret (Niner) Kisling, of Jackson Township, this county, and by her he had one child - George A. After his marriage Mr. Rinebold engaged in farming on the Rinebold homestead, in Loudon Township, living there until 1881, when he purchased the farm whereon he now resides. He and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church. He is one of the representative young farmers of the township. Politically he is a Democrat.

JOHN F. RITCHART. ]iainter. Fostoria. was born in Westmoreland County, Penn.. July 7, 1820, son of David and Mary (Johnson) Ritchart. who settled in Loudon Township, this county, in 1847. and here lived and died. They had six children who grew to manhood and womanhood: John F., James (deceased). William H., Han-iet (Mrs. P. D. Caples). Catherine (INIrs. Washington Wade) and David (latter deceased). Our subject remained in Pennsylvania until foui-teen years of age, when he removed to Wayne County. Ohio, with his parents. He*^ is a natm-al born mechanic, and during his minority learned cabinet-making, which hs followed for several years. He settled in Fostoria. this county, in 1854, since which time he has been engaged extensively in caiTiage and house painting. December 23, 1847, he married Eliza, daughter of Kinzie and Catherine (Kimmel) Cox, of Wayne County. Ohio, and by her he has had three childi-en: Emma (deceased), Ella (Mrs.W. D. Robbing) and Minnie. Mr. and Mrs. Ritchart are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, with which they have been connected upward of thirty years and of which he is one of the trustees. He has served as mayor of Fostoria two terms. eighteen years as a member of the council, member of the school board eighteen years in succession, and as cemetery trustee for twenty-five years. Politically he is a Republican.

WILLIAM H. RITCHART. farmer. P. O. Fostoria, was born iu Somerset County, Penn.. March 20, 1827. son of David and Mary (Johnson) Ritchart, who settled in Wayne County. Ohio, about 1833. and came to this county in 1847, locating in Loudon Township, where they resided until their death. Their childi'en were seven in number: JohnF., James F. (deceased), Han-iet (Mrs. P. D. Caples). William H., Eliza (deceased). Catherine (Mrs. Washington Wade) and David (deceased). Our subject was reared in Wayne County from six years of age. and from the age of fifteen to twenty- one drove stage on the route from Wooster to Cleveland. He spent the summer of 1848 in this county, when he returned to Wayne County, continuing the occupation of driving stage till 1850, when he went overland to California, engaged in mining and in various other lines of business up to 1854. when he took passage on the steamer ''Winfield Scott" for home: was wrecked when two days out from