Venice Township (part 2 of 3)

'I'hat \ictor\ deri\ es a general intei'est from the fact that it \\asthelirsl encounter ot' our infant nav\ . in licet or squadron. In contests \\ ith single -hips \ye had humbled the pride of (".real llritain. The (iuerrier. .la\a and Macedonia had surrendered to our stars and st ripes. I >ut here, on \ ondei \\a\es. that nation was taught tlic unexpected lesson that u e could cunipiei ; hem in -<|uadnin. I'.ul this battle deri\'es a particular interest from itbearing on the war of iNlif. and from the relief it brought to > our shores in A rciirhniL: the tomahawk and scalping knife from sivauv hands; shielding , tY'inticr <if thii'i- hundred miles fi-nm the assaults and conflagrations of a ci'inbined I'.i'ilis); and sa\a.Lre fi>i-; npeniiiL; the iraies ,,f Maiden to den

It was like tlu* stillness tliat precedes tlic liurricane. The Meet moved on steadilv t ill a ipiarter before twelve o'clock, when tlic awful suspense was relieved by a shot aimed at us from the Detroit, about one mile distant. 1'errv made more sail, and cominir within canister distance, opened a rapid and destructive lire on the Detroit. The Caledonia, ('apt. Turner, followed the Lawrence in gallant style: and the Ariel. Lieut. I'acket. and the Scorpion. Cajit. Champlin. fought nobly and effect ivelv .

The X iairara failing to irrapple with the (v>ueen. the latter vessel shot ahead to lire upon the Lawrence, and with the Detroit aimed their broadsides exclusively upon her. hoping and intending to sink her. At last thev made hei' a complete wreck: but. fortunately, the Commodore escaped without injiirv.and stepping into a boat with his liirhtinir llair thrown over his -lioulders. he pushed off for the Niagara amid a shower of cannon and musket balls, and reached that vessel unscathed.

lie found her a fresh vessel, with onlv two. or at most three, persons injured, ami i in medial el v sent her commander to hasten up t lie small vessels. 1'errv boarded the Niagara when she was abreast of the Lawrence, and further from her than the Detroit was on her riyht. The Lawrence now dropped astern and hauled down her Hair. I'erry turned the Niagara's course towards the eiiemv . and crossing the bow of the Lawrence bore down headforemost upon the enemv "s line, determined to break through it and lake a rakinir position. The Detroit attempted to turn, so as to keep her broadside to the Niagara, and avoid beiuir raked: hut in doing this, she felt against the <,}ueeii. and got entangled in liei -rigging, which left the enemv no alternative but to strike both ships. I'erry now shot further ahead, near t he Lad v I'mv ost . which, from being crippled in her rudder, had drifted out out of her place to leeward, and was pressing forward towards the head of the British line to support the two ships. ( )ne broadside from the Niagara ^ilenced her bat terv . The Hunter next st ruck, and the two smaller vessels, in attempting to escape, were overhauled bv the Scorpion. Capt. Champlin. and 1 he Trip. Mr. Holdup: and t h us ended the action, after .'! o'clock.

Let us now advert fora moment to the scenes exhibited in the llag-ship Law re nee. of which I can speak as an ev e-w it ness. The wounded began to coiue i low n before she opened her bat terv . and for one. I felt impatient of the delay. Iu proper time, however, as it proved, the dogs of war were let loose from their leash, and it seemed as though heaven and earth were at loggerheads. For more than two hours little could be heard but the deafeniiiir thunder of our broadsides, the crash of the balls dashing through our timbers, and the shrieks of the wounded. These were brought down faster I hau I could attend to them, farther than to stav the bleeding, or suppoi't a ^haltered limb with splints, and pass them forward upon the berth-deck.

\\ hen the battle had raired an hour and a half. I heard a call for me at the -mall skv-litrhl. and stepping towanls it. I ^aw the Commodore, whose i-oiinlenance was as calm and placid as if on ord inarv dnt v . "Doctor." said ! ie. - '->cud me one of \oiiriiieii.' mean inif one ot the six stationed with me to a-»ist in niov Inii' the wounded. In live minutes the call was repeated and olieved. and at the seventh call I told him he had all mv men. He asked if t here w ere an v ^i'-k ' 'i w on nded w ho could pull a rope, when two or t hree craw led up «\\ deck In lend a helpiim. but feeble, hand in pit Him;' at the las' liattle \\a-> \vi-n. and he \vas safe: hut the deck ua> ^lip|>ei-\ with Hood, and >tre\\ed \sith the bodies of t\veiil> otlicer> and men. some of \\hoin -at at table with us at our last meal, and the ship rebounded u ith the :_rroan- of the wounded. Those of us who were spared, and aMe to ualk. met him at the iraiiL,rwa\ to \\eleoiue him on hoard, hut the salutation \sa- a silent one on lioth sides not a \\ord could I'md utterance. And no\\ the 15riti-.li otlice i's ai i i\ ed one from each \ e»el to tender t heir siihmi-Mon. and \\ it h it their swords. When the\ approached, picking their \\a> ainon\' the wreck and carnage of the deck, \\ilh their >\\ 'ord-hilts to\\ aid- lVrr\.the\ tendei'ed them to 1 1 i- accept a nee. \V i l h a dignified and >oli'inn air. and u it h

\\ith dff)i conrern for ( 'oinniodore Uarc|a\ and the \\oimded oilieer^. It- nde rilrj; I" them e\ er\ conifoi I hi-- -hip al't'i >\ deil. and e\pre---in^ hi- i cuM'et that lie had not a spare medical otlicer to -end ihem; that he had oiil\ one on dut\ for tin- lied, and that one had hi- hand- full.

Lynch and Clark: and three Mritish officers - Captain Finis, and Lieutenant Stokes, of the Colleen, and Lieutenant (iarland. of the Detroit. Equal respect was shown to the slain of both nations, and the crews of both fleets united in the ceremoiiN . The procession of boats, with two bands of music; the slow and regular motion of the oars, striking in exact time with the solemn notes of the dirge: the mournful waving of (lags, and sound of minute guns from the ships, presented a striking contrast to the scenes of two days before, when both the living and the dead, now forming this solemn and fraternal train, were engaged in fierce and bloody strife, hurling at each other the thunderbolts of war.

On the eighth day after the action, the Lawrence was dispatched to Krie with the wounded, where we received a cordial welcome and kind hospitality.

The remainder of the vessels conveyed Harrison's army to Maiden, where they found the public stores in llamcs. and Proctor, with his army, in hasty r, -treat. Perry joined Harrison as a volunteer aid. who, with our troops. chiefly from Ohio and Kentucky, overtook and captured the army. Perr\ then accompanied Harrison and Commodore Man-lay to Krie. where they landed amid peals of cannon and shouts of the multitude, and from thence proceeded to Rhode Island.

Commodore Perry served two years as commander of the -lava, taking with him most of the survivors of the Lawrence. lie after this commanded a squadron in the West Indies, where he died, in isp.i.

Possessed of high-toned morals, he was above the low dissipation and sensuality too prevalent with some otlicers of this day. and in his domestic character was a model of every domestic virtue and grace. His literary acquirements were respectable, and his taste refined. He united the graces of a manly beauty to a lion heart, a sound mind, a safe judgment, and a firmness of purpose which nothing could shake.

Hut this intelligent audience already know and appreciate his noble virtues and honor his glorious achievements. The maps of \our shores and inland towns and counties are inscribed with his name: and the noble State of Ohio, and the I'nited States are about to decorate the walls of their respective capitols with splendid representations of the battle we are this day commemorating.

My friends, in the name and behalf of the citi/ens of Rhode Island. I tender you their grateful acknowledgements for the honor done that little State on this interest ing occasion. She sent hither the commander of the squadron, and a majority of the otlicers and men. Sheglories in the victory gained, and regards the name and tame of her gallant son as one of her choicest jewels, and \\ill ever cherish grateful sentiments towards those \\lio respect and honor his memory. You have come hither, my friends, for this hol\ purpose from all the cities of the lake shore, and are about to lay 'lie cornel- stone of a monument to perpetuate his memory and fame, riionirh his name will outlive structures of marble, or of bron/.e. yet rest assured that the citi/ens of Rhode Island \\ill hail with delight the report of this da \ 's transact ions, and in their fnt nre western pilgrimages \s ill linger about this ->pot and in\oke Heaxen's choicest blessings on \on in return for > our LTenen HIS magnanimit \ .

Old friends, we jiart to-day. prol>alil\ to meet m> more. (>ur nn-nioi i«-> of the pa^t. ami the happy experiences of thi> celebration, till our hearts \\ith grateful and tender emotions, and will serve to ^ild the eveninir t\\ ili^ht of our da\ s. I hi(| \ 011 an affect innate farewell.

until it ceased. Their ears were not used to that kind of thunder." The author took a very active part in this celebration, and must be excused tor referring to it here, because it always seemed to him very wrong that the plan of the association was not carried out. After all these patriotic effusions of eloquence in prose and song, and these thousands of people, with one voice, agreeing to erect the monument oil Gibraltar rock, as then and theretofore contemplated - that all this should be set at defiance, and the plan frustrated by a few selfish men, can not be succes>lully apologi/ed for. There is certainly no ir^ore appropriate spot on earth fora monument to Perry and his braves than right at the spot where the corner stone was laid at Gibraltar rock in 1858. If the present generation should fail to carry out the plan then inaugurated in such glorious style, and with such high hopes of success, may not a Mr. Jav C'ooke, with his acknowledged patriotism and his wonderful recuperative powers, yet erect such a monument upon that corner >tone that shall be worthy of the day and deed? While in the /enith ot his fame Mr. Cooke built a palatial mansion near the corner .stone, where it \vaslaidmore than 21 years ago. In this mansion many ministers of the gospel throughout the land, tor several years, found and enjoyed Mr. Cooke's hospitality, and made the acquaintance of the superintendent. Mrs. McMcens, the distinguished Tiftmite. the widow ot my late and lamented friend. Dr. McMeens. the efficient secretary ot that --monumental association." and who preserved the proceedings of the loth day of September. 1858.

\\hatever became of the funds. I do not know, and would not have anybody believe that improper use was ever made ot them: but one thing I do know: That soon after that glorious inauguration, efforts were made to build a monument to Perry in the public square at Cleveland: that succeeded. I can never look at it. or think about it. but feelings ot sadness pervade my whole being. If there is. in fact, no wrong connected with it, it is certainly away irom home. \\ hy did not the people of Sandusky. and of the islands, protest against the robberv? \Vhydid Toledo and Detroit stand by and see this tiling di >ne? Such is life!

Source changes here: from History of Seneca County, Ohio, by Leeson, Michael A., [from Old Catalog] Ed, published 1886; 27,612 words in this source stream.

Venice Township

THIS township, inclndiag the southeru part of the "gore." was surveyed into quarter sections in 1820, by Price J. Kellogg, and the lands offered for sale in 1821. Venice formed a part of Thompson Township fi'om 1820 to 1 829, when it was established a separate township and organized as such. The year of its organization the population was contined to families of the officers elected in 1829, and perhaps a few others named in the pioneer section of this chapter. In 1840 the census places the number of inhabitants Kt 1,222; in 1850, at 1.830; in 1860, at 2,013; in 1870, at 1,781, increased in 1880 to 2,231, and in 1885 to 2,600 (estimated). In 1880 Attica Village claimed a population of 663, which nimiber has been added to considerably diu'ing the last five years. The name Venice was suggested by Johnson Ford to memorialize his home in Cayuga County, N. Y.

Honey Ci'eek enters the county in fractional Section 19 and flowing in a tortuous course west by north, through the old settlement of Caroline, leaves the township in Section 6. A few small creeks are found both noi"th and south of Honey Creek.

The Columbus and Sanduskj' pike road runs diagonally through the township fi'om Attica Station, a mile north of the old village of Attica, through Caroline to Carrothers. The petition of Ezra Gilbert, presented to the county board in November. 1828, prayed for the establishment of a road beginning at the town line, two and one-half miles west of Attica, and running south Ineast so as to intersect the New Haven road, three and one half miles east of Attica, near the line of Huron County. The petition was granted, the line was at once smweyed by David Risdon. and cut through or nnderbmshed by Ezi'a Gilbert, Johnson Ford and Samuel Halsted, within six days.

The Northwestern Ohio Railroad runs through the southwestern sections, while the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad passes across the extreme northeastern corners of fi'aetional Section 6 and Section 1.

The lands are fertile, and the face of the countiy just sulfieiently rolling to confer on it a beauty and utility which could not belong to a level country.

Orfjatiic and Official. - This township was established in 1829 (r/r/c Transactions of the Commissioners" Board, Chap. IV. ), and the first election held June 13, that year. Thomas West, Ezra Gilbert and Moses Smith were chosen trustees; Philip E. Bronson, clerk; James Halsted, treasui'er; Henrj- Speaker. Elisha Fair, overseers of the poor; Cornelius Gilmore and Ezi-a Gilbert, fence viewers; and WaiTen Blakesly, constable.

From this date to 1 854 the township shares with many other divisions of the county'in the loss of old record books. Those old books alone could tell the story of each annual election, and to the fact of their being lost or destroyed, rather than to any carelessness on the part of the present townshi]) clerk, who made out the following list, or the historian, must be attributed the ((uarter century break in the official historj'. Many of the men refeiTed to in the pioneer section of this chapter will be identified as sharing in the local

The officers of Venice for 1885-86 are David Holmes, William King and John B. Wilhelm. trustees; James L. Coiich, clerk; A. B. Brant, treasiu-er; J. T. Meyers, assessor; A. F. Lepper and Otto Blust, constables; James L. Couch and O. J. McPherson. justices of the peace.

Pioneers of Venice. - Half a centmy and eight years have elapsed since the pioneer of American civilization looked into the wilderness of Venice Township, and called it his home. To Cornelius Gilmore, Johnson Ford, Samuel Halsted, the fii-st road-makers, the Urst farmers, the tirst actual workers in the township, the special honors pertaining to pioneers are accorded. Although they first settled on the head waters of Honey Creek a full decade after the adventurous pioneers of Delaware Covmty visited and settled on the Sandusky at Fort Ball, and eight years after the Welchs settled on lower Honey Creek, the honors are still due; for then the beautiful district, now called Venice, was a wilderness, unvisited by the pioneers of other parts of the county and indeed unheard of by them. In the following pages the writer has made an effort to group all the pioneers together, and speak of each so far as authentic accounts permit.

John Barrick settled in Seneca County in 1884 .... Joel Billings settled here in 1829. . . .Lewis Bollinger (deceased), born in Germany in 1825, came from Stark County, Ohio, to this county in 1844, settling in this township.

Jeremiah Carpenter and Charles D. and Emeline (Michener) Carpenter - former born in 1823, died in 1868, latter born in 1830. died in 1873. parents of William A. Carpenter - were early settlers .... Samuel and Elizabeth (Wiloughby) Carson, natives of Pennsylvania, father of J. M'. Carson, came to this county in 1835, and here died at advanced ages .... Robert Carson, grandfather of J. W. Carson, came to the county at an early date and here died in 1836. His wife died same year . . . . H. M. Chandler came from Connecticut in 1838 .... Matthew J. Clark, who died Januaiy 4, 1882, in his fifty-sixth year, was an old settler of Venice TowTiship. He moved to Tiifin many years ago .... Jacob Cook settled here in 1829 . . . . H. B. Covuiwi-ight, in 1832 , . . . James Madison Crabbs. father of Cjtus N. Crabbs, came here at an early date .... Samuel Croxton settled here in 1829.

Stephen and Magdalena Dick came fi'om Alsace, Germany (then France), to this country in 1830; lived twenty-two years in this and seventeen in Bloom Township, finally locating in Thompson Township in 1872. Stephen Dick died in 1876; his widow resides near Frank's Corners.

Elisha Fair settled here in December, 1828 ... .Philip and Chri.stina (Kerner) Falter, natives of Germany, came thence to Seneca County, in 1883; former died in 1842. J. B. Falter, their son. also a native of Germany, born in 1826, lives in Venice Townshij) . . . . Philip Falter, born on mid-ocean in 1823 (his pai'ents being on their way from Germany to the United States, and who died in Venice Township), married Miss Elizabeth Houek, and they then came to Venice Townshij). where they Vioth died, in 1S72 . . . .Jolinson Ford, horn in Renssehier County. N. Y. . Jun(>'.l. ITUCi. came to Seneca Conntv in IN'JS. fi-om Cayuf^a Coiitity, N. Y. . and, purchasing 1(10 acres of land. where Attica Villatre now stands, entered on pioneer wt)rk in the wilderu(\ss. His neighbor. Cornelius Gilmore, settled in the townshi]) the year before, and a few others came in 1829. Mr. Ford opened the tirst farm in Venice Township, clearing, plowing, and sowing the seed himself. His wife. Esther, died March T.t. 18211. and her remains had to be cairied to the Seipio Cemetery. Shortly after he revisited New Y'ork State, and there married a second time; returning with his bride to the wilderness. In IS^:! or lS>i4 lie was appointed superintendent of the Union Sunday-school, succeeding John Miirtairi. and this position he held until IS.IB oris,")!): when the Presl)yterian Church was organized in October, LS;5:5. he was ordained an elder. He and Ezra Gilbert suggested the name Attica for the present village in 182U, and the same year he gave the name of Venice to the township. For over half a century he has made the township his home and shared in every effort to develop it .... J. J. Friedley and his father, Ludwick Friedley, a Pennsylvanian. settledherein IS^iS, latter dying in 1871. Barbara (Link), wife of J. J. Friedley. born in Germany, came when two years old with her jiarents. who were among the first settlers of Seneca County. It is stated on other authority that this family came in 1883.

Cornelius Gilmore was the tirst settler and lii'st blacksmith in Venice Township, having settled here in June, 1827. where O. J. McPherson's house now' stands, on the south bank of Honey Creek. About 1882 Mr. Gilmore removed the Caroline postoffice, when a new office was established at Attica .... The tii-st road in the township, from a point two and a half miles west of Attica to the Hiu-on County line, was cut through in November, 1828. by Ezra Gilliert, Johnson Ford and Samuel Halsted. and a year later Ezra Gilbert erected his cabin where the Ford & Stranler hardware store of Attica's later days stands. Ezra Gill)ert settled here in April. 1829, and was the first postmaster, and first settlei' on the site of Attica.

James Hanna. born in Pennsylvania in 1804. came to Venice Township in 1!S34. . . .Samuel Halsted settled here in August. 1S2S. . . .The Ham iltons were here in 1845. . . .Samuel Harper, a soldier of the Eevolution, an Irishman, was biu'ied in Sycamore Township in 1821 .... Samuel Hawk was here in 183ri .... George Heabler. Sr. , a native of Pennsylvania, located in Venice Township in 188."), bringing his son George, of Attica and Tiffin . , . . George Herr came ft-om Germany in l.sr)2 . . . . John Hillis. a native of Ireland, came direct from his native land to Seneca County. si>ttling in Venice Townshi)) in 184<). dying in an early day, and now resides with his son. David .... Samuel and Charles Hoyt settled here in 1S.'')4. Sanuiel died in 1S72. Charles resides in ^\'yandot County.... J. W. Huffman, born in Columbiana County. Ohio, in 1S87. was brought by his ])arents, Jacob and Catharine (Weaver) Huffman, to Venice

Pennsylvania, born in 1807, came to this county in 1834, settling on 5fi() acres of laud on Section 7 of Venice Township, where he still resides. . . .Michael and Barl)ara (Free) Hull, ])areuts of George F, Hull, were early settlers of this township, where Michael Hull now resides.

Thomas Kem]), born in Pennsylvania in 1813, came with liis parents, David and Sarah (\Vard) Kemp, to Venice Township in an early day . . . . David J. Kelly was here in 1849.

Lebold. all natives o^ Germany, came from Tuscarawas Coiinty. Ohio, in 1842. to Section 16, this township, where John C. still resides. . . .Aveiy Leonard, born in Pennsylvania in 1 798, came here with his family in 1834 .... John Lepard was here in 1831 ... .Jacob and Maryann (Gerling) Link, n.itives of Germany, came to this county in 1838, the former dying in 1841. Their son. J. \V. Link, born on the ocean, when his parents were on their way to Amprica, resides in Venice Township. . . ..John Lozier came in 1853.

J. McCai-ty and Daniel McCarty, natives of Ireland, settled here about 1832 or 1834. . . .John and Elizabeth (Hannah) McClelland, natives of Pennsylvania, settled here in 1836. . . .James McKibben came here in June, 1830. ....James B. McKibben, a Penu.sylvanian, was here in 1832. .. .William McPherson settled in Venice Township in November. 1828. He was born in Scotland in 1793. . . .Henrj- and Kebecca (Free) Meyers, former a native of Switzerland, l)orn in 181)8, were early pioneers of the county. Mr. Meyers came in 1835, a comparatively poor young man, and at his death in 1884 he owned over 2.0(H) acres of land .... Nathan Merrimau settled in Venice in a native of Gennany. father of Paul Miller, immigrated to America in 1832; resided about four years in Medina County, Ohio, and then settled permanently in this county. He died in 1884 .... Maurice and Hannah (Davis) Moore - former a native of New Jersey, born in 1 797 ; latter a native of Wales, born in 1800 - came to the county in 1834, settling in Venice Township. They died in 1883 ... .Andrew Moore settled here in 1830: died in 1846. His widow died in 1880. . . .Philip Muck settled in Venice in 1829. . . .Jacob and Fanny (Werder) Myers (or Meyers), natives of Switzerland. came to Ohio in 1829 and to this coiinty in 1831. Their son, Henry F. flyers, also a native of Switzerland, born in 1822. came with them and is a farmer here . , . . Hemy Meyers, :' Tailor Meyers," as he was known to all. was born in village of Oberendengen. Switzerland, April 2(^ 1807; died at Attica in July, 1884. In 1835 he brought the first $5 in gold ever seen in Tiffin, and also piu'chased the first mowing machine and the first grain di'ill in Venice Township. Five years after he came to Seneca County, on July 11. 1840, he was man'ied. After working six years for one man at his trade in Philadelphia, he left there on the 10th of July, 1835, and came by canal to Sandusky. Ohio, arriving on the 29th of the same month, and walked to Attica on the old tiu'npike, where he had previously piu'chased wild land. For six years after his arrival in Seneca Coimty he worked at his trade in Tiffin, after which he worked for live years in the village of Attica, using his money thus earned for the improvement of his land.

Jacob Newkii'k settled in Venice in 1831 . . . .Leonard and Mary (Hachter) Noble, natives of Germany, former born in 1822, latter in 1829, came the year they were married (1852) to Venice Township, and some time after moved to Reed Township, where Mr. Noble died in 1871.

Mrs. Cathi'ine Olds died at the residence of her son. Wallace Olds, three and one- half miles west of Attica, July 18, 1878, aged seventj- one years, live months and thirteen days. Mrs. Olds was one of the old jsioneers of Seneca County, having resided here forty-two years.

Jeremiah Eex {vide Chapter V). . . .S. H. Ringle, an Ohioan, was here in 1832 .... Stephen Rogers, a native of England, came to America in 1818. and to this county in 1837. John Rogers, a pioneer farmer of the county, born in France in 1819, is a son of his. . . .David Roop settled here in 1829. . . .Aaron Rush, an old settler of Venice Township, died in 1837.

Venice Toavnship

Jacob Schaaf, who came from Germany in IS'29. is an old sottlor here. . . . Sebastian Scnn, a native of Hwitzorhind. born in 1S28, came in IS^iS with his father, who settled on a farm in this county. . . .Samuel Shade, Sr. . born in IS(K), purchased, in 18;J4, 'MM acres of timber land in Venice Township; he came from Columl)iana County, Ohio; died at Tiflfhi in 1872. Samuel Shade, his .son, resides in Eden Township .... J. L. Shirey came from Pennsylvania in 1844. . . .Christian Shuly, a native of Penn.sylvania came in 18r)(). . . . Ludwig Shoup came from (Germany in 1854. . . .Georf;ce Sillman. father of Jlrs. Michael Kirchner, of 'J'itHn. came from Germany and settled in Venice Tinvnship about 1888. . . .Maiiin Smeltz, a native of Germany, was among the early settlers of this county. . . .John and Maiy (Weaver) Smith, natives of Pennsylvania, parents of Martin Smith, of Venice Township, came to the county in 1888, and settled in this township, where John Smith died in 1882. . . .Jacob and Catharine (Myers) Smith, natives of Switzerland, jiarents of Mi-s. Norman Benham, of Scipio Township, came to America in 1827, and in course of time were early settlers of Venice Township .... Jeremiah Smith, born in Bedford County, Penn., February IS, 1818, came to Seneca County in 1884, and died here January 5, 1 885 .... Eli Snow. Cold Creek ( see story of the Indian - 'Pumpkin' ' ). . . . .Henry Speaker, Jr., settled here in 182U. and erected the first saw-mill in 1831 ... .Samuel and Hannah (Harper) Speaker, parents of Samuel Speaker, came in 1840; Samuel died in 1S()8 . . . .Huckins Spencer, born in Maine, father of I. A. Spencer, of Venice Township, settled in this county in 1 884 .... Frederick Steigmeyer, a native of Switzerland, came fi-om Pennsylvania to Seneca County in 1886. .. .John Steigmeyer, father of Mrs. John B. Blum, was a native of Switzerland, born in 1811; he settled, in 1885. two miles west iif Attica, where he still resides .... Martin and Elizabeth (Lang) Steinmetz, parents of Mrs. J. B. Falter, natives of Alsace, came to Seneca County about 1833....M. C. Steinmetz, born in France in 1829, came with his parents, Martin and Elizabeth (Baltz) Steinmetz, from France to America al)Out 1881, and to Venice Township about 1 887 .... James D. Stevenson, a native of Vermont, settled here in 1838, died in Michigan in 18()5. . . .John A. Stephenson, father of Prof. William H. Stejihenson, of Attica, and a native of Pennsj'lvania. settled in Venice Township in 1881 . . . .E. P. Sutton, known as "Pomeroy" Sutton, an old resident of Attica, died December 27, 1879, at New Washington .... Lester Sutton came fi-om New York State in 1852.

John Tompkins, a native of New York, came in 1885. . . .Peter Trumpler, a native of Bavaria, was among the early settlers of the townshiji .... John Trumpler was here in 1841.

Samuel Weaver, father of E. Weaver, of Attica, was born in Maryland in 1822, and came among the early settlers to this county; he died in 18()3. . . . Martin S. Weaver, born in Pennsylvania in 1811. came here in 1888. . . .Thomas West settled in Venice in October, 1828. . . . James Willoughby, who owned the northwest quarter of Section 84 in 1829, died in 1885. . . .Jacob Wise, a Pennsylvanian, settled here in 1828. .. .Samuel Wise, a native, was here in 1887. . . . .John and Samuel Woolet settled here in 1829. . . .Christian and Hannah (Lehman) Worm came into the county from Germany in 1888.

Earlij I)i(li<ntricK. - Henry S])eaker"s saw-mill was erected between Caroline and .\ttica in 1881. Th(> jjower was supplied by oxen. The first grist-mill and carding mill was established in 1832. This was simply a conversion of Speaker's old sawmill. The ^letcalf Steam Saw-Mill was erected in 188(') by Ebenezer and George Metcalf, close to the spot on which the Heabler Mill was afterward built. The fire of March. 1840, destroyed this buOding. The Kiunaman Steam Saw & Gri.st-Mills were erected at Caroline by Peter Kinnaman, and carried on until destroyed by tire. In 18D7 Ephraim Groves' son was scalded to death, owing to the explosion of the boiler in this concern. The Steigmeyer Steam Saw-Mill was erected near the site of the Metcalf Mills, and a grist-mill added siilssequently. This industry is now can-ied on by the Heablers.

The conspiracy of 1857 to defi-aud the people reached its zenith at Attica. Schiiyler, Higley and Chandler were among the leaders of those fi'audiilent dealers. The counterfeiters were also busy at this time and had a den in this township.

The location of this village on Sections 10 and 3. Venice Township, at the crossing of the TifSu and Sandusky roads, was selected in 1838 by William and Samuel Miller, and surveyed for them l)y David Eisdon. Four years prior to this time Ezra Gilbert built a cabin iu the center of what is now the village of Attica, where he kept a tavern and established a postoflice, winning for it firom the department the name of his old home, Attica, X. Y. Thus the Jlillers had not to go to the trouble of selectinof a name for their new town in the wilderness. Nathan jNIerriman's store was also established here, and within live years from the day of Gilbert's settlement the place grew fiom one logcabin to be a village of twenty dwellings and of a population bordering on 100. Johnson Ford erected his cabin iu 1828. In 1831 the tirst fi'ame house in the township was erected by Jacob Newkirk iu the business center of the village.

Attica was platted April 7, 1833, by David Eisdon for William and Samuel Miller. Miller & Schuyler's addition of Hugh 51. Ellis' lands was surveyed in Januaiy, 1848, by H. B. Cain for John Miller and Marcus Schuyler. An addition to this addition was maile at the same time for John L. LaMareaux, H. Chandler, Joseph Baughman, John Heckman, John ShurifP and D. K. Burg.

The following-named additions were made in 1873-74 and 1875: George Eingle's, October, 1873: David Einffle'.s, October, 1873; William King's, February, 1875: Finley Eingle's, December, 1874: Boyle & Bemenderfer's, March, 1875. The additions to the village in Sections 3 and 10 were authorized by the commissioners, October 1, 1875. A petition to extend the limits of Attica coi-poration was presented to the county board by Lester Sutton, agent. May 26, 1880. The contest which ensued is of record.

The first officers of Attica Village, elected April 0, 1850, were: John L. LaMoreaux, mayor; Samuel Miller, clerk: AMlliam Rininger, treasiu-er: S. E. Martin, marshal; Samuel Crobaugh, D. K. Burg, Benjamin Kelly, John Heckman and John Eingle, councilmen; Samuel Miller, M. E. Moltz. John Lay, Ebeu. Metcalf, Orlando Miller and James H. Brisco. members of board of education. The mayors of Attica since that time are named as follows: William Miller. 1851; William Eininger, 1852-55; P. Kinnaman. 1855: K. H. Blodgett. 1850-57; W. Eininger, 1858: P. Kinnaman. 185U: W. Eininger, ISliO; J. R. Buckingham and E.H. Blodgett. 18()1: E. H. Blodgett. 1802; W. Eininger, 1805; W. M. Miller, 18()0; H. M. Chandler (vacancv), ISOO, and elected 1807-08; H. J. Ford, ISO'J; J. C. Meyers, 1870-74; J. 'W. Simpson, 18(4 (died that year): James L. Couch, 1874-70, re-elected in 187fi; and William Harman, the present mayor.

The names of those who have been elected and served as councilmen since 18r)2. are as follows: John Miller, H. B. Cain, Samuel Crobaugh, AVilliam Kininger, I. A. Childs. William Miller. B. Patterson, John Shade, G. W. Moltz, James Hull, J. D. Harford, John A\'olf, M'illiam McJIanigal. Leonard Buts or Brets, P. Kiunaman, Samuel Ernest, A. P. Philo, S. A. Ringle, Levi Rice. T. T. Cook, "^\'illiam Smith. George Heabler, John Engelhart, Henry Heabler. J. Q. Holmes, J. D. Meyers, John Heabler. J. A\'. Leonard. John Foster, J. W. Hall, Hiram Roycp. George Ringle. Jacob Eljersole, M. R. Moltz, J. M. Silcox, Thomas Neelev, Samuel Bemeuderfer, James L. Couch, William King, J. R. Strandler, David Sanford, Ed. Bemenderfer. J. F. Lebold, F. H. Steigmeyer. A. B. Brant, David Heabler, Simeon Decker, J. L. Friedley, T. K. Crane, H. S. Seavolt. Jacob Engelhart and D. T. Heabler.

Business Interests

The first postoffice at Attica was opened in 1832, with Ezi-a Gilbert, postmaster; the owner of the first tavern there. In 1833. Xathan Memman, of Bucpiis, opened the first store. V,'. M. Miller was postmaster at this point for years. Levi J. Todd is the present postmaster.

The business cii'cle of Attica in 1884-85 comprised the following: Bemenderfer & Co., sash, door and blind factoiy; Heabler Bros., flouring-mills; Hall & Meyers, iron founders ; George Keller, brick and tile-makers : Libe & Burget, carriage-makers; Armatage & Wiu'ts, J. R. Strandler. hardware; David S. Jackson, saw-mill; J. ^^'. Walker, furnitiue and undertaker; W. Smith, fur nitui'e; George Sherman, harness; Friedly Bros. , Rininger ^ Silcox, George H. Hamilton, Leonard Sachs, Myers & Keller, F. H. Steigmeyer, merchants; T. K. Crane, jeweler; J. M. Teeples, milliner: Engelhart & Klear, blacksmiths: David Heabler, boots and shoes; R. T. Hearson, J. F. Lebold. dniggists; J. Reid, C. Schottler. tailors; X. S. YanHorne, baker; J. M. Rice, painter; Jacob CourtwTight, livery; William King.cooper; George Kupp, meat market; David Ap-es, W. SchofF, hotels: Adolf Hassler, billiards; A. Kappas, F. Uhle. Joseph Myers, saloons; James L. Couch. O. J. McPherson, justices of the peace: William Harmau, dentist; M. H. Mills, H. G. Blaine, A. W. Knight. Alfred Force; J. K. Buckingham, C. L. Jones, physicians; Lester Sutton, attorney, banker, etc. ; Dr. H. G. Blaine, George Stoner, editors Attica Journal.

The old buildings which occupied the site of the M'illiam Rininger building, were destroyed by fire in 1853. In 1850 another fire swept away the old William Miller Hotel, northwest corner of Main and TiflSn Streets, then conducted by H. M. Chandler. Subsequently the Chandler Block was erected on th(> spot.

The first sermon in Venice Township was delivered by the Presbj-terian preacher of Melmore about 1830, and a L'nion Sabbath -school was organized early in 1833, by Agent Patty, of which Martain was chosen superintendent.

Thf Presbyterian Society was organized in October, 1833, with thirteen members, by E. Conger and E. Judson. of Hiuon Presbyteiy. John Holmes and Johnson Ford were the first elders.

Baptist Church of Attica was organized July 17, 1841. with the following members; Nathan Childs. Adam Philo, Russell Windriison, Leonard Gipson. Thomas Rundell, Eliza Childs, Electa Philo. Hannah Windi'uson. Hilda Gipson and Nancy Rundell, all of whom have gone to join the church above. The pastors of the church have been A. Abbott, E. Goodnow, Y. R. Wall, Elder L. Mack, F. Freeman, A. C. Lockhart, E. 'S^'. Clark, J. Hawker. Reason Lockhai-t, Robert Lockhart, J. L. Wiley, Frank Lyon, A. Buell, T. Dyall, and E. W. Lyon. The secretaries of the societ}' were E. H. Blodgett. H. P. Philo. L. L. Gipson and John Riddle. The last named has served twenty years. The membership is fifty-nine, and the value of church property is $3,000.

United Brethren Society was organized in 1855 by Rev. M. Bulger, with the following named members: William Seed, Hemy Hershiser and wife, Mi-s. Miller and Mrs. Huddlestone. The pastors of the ehiu'ch, since its organization, are named as follows: Revs. M. Bulger. S. Jacoby. S. Altman. - Ogden, J. F. Seiler, S. Foster, William Nevill, William Mathers. J. Aumiller, W. W. McCurdy. Klingle, O. H. Ramsey, C. L. Bevington and W. A. Keesy, the present incumbent. The societ}^ is building a new brick church on the lot where the old church stands on Eden Street.

Universalist Church of Attica was organized December 29. 1860. April 26, 1860, a number of citizens of Attica and vicinity, met to consider the means for building a Universalist Church, when a vote in favor of the enterprise was carried. William Rininger, Mark E. Crow, and Samuel Crobaiigh were elected trustees; John Childs, secretaiy. Individual suViscriptions were ordered to be divided into shares of §5 each, and each share was entitled to a vote. Samuel Crobaugh presented his interest, valued at $60. to the chiu'ch May 2, 1861. Among the original members, besides those named above, were Parthena Crow, Miranda Crow, Maria Crow, Maiy Metealf. Naomi Pruden, Harrison Hathaway, Lodency and Louisa Childs. The pastors have been Rev. E. E. Wood, six months; H. R. Nye, twenty-fom- months; J. W. Henley, eighteen months; J. F. Rice, six months; N. A. Saxton, six months; A. J. Seitz, twenty-four months; G. R. Brown, eighteen months, and J. F. Rice, the present pastor, twelve years. The secretaries of the society have been H. Hathaway. J. H. Boyle, Maria and Allie Boyle, Martha Silcox, Anna Meyers, Arvilla Green, J. N. Lee, W. T. Meyers. F. H. Steigmeyer. Nettie Couch, and L. J. Todd. The house of worship was erected in 1800. The membership is ninety.

Methodist Protestant Church was organized at Attica early in 1866. The names of original members are William McPherson and wife. Maurice Moore and wife. Mrs. George Ringle, Mrs. David Ringle. ]\Iary Bennet, !Mi's. Lester Sutton, Mrs. Elizabeth Day, and Mrs. Vahnliiah Williams. The names of pastors are given as follows: Maiy Ann Steinbaugh. H. J. Bradford, James Williams. W. S. Cairns, J. H. Gray. L. Boman, The jiresent pastor is D. C. Cobiu-n. The number of members is placed at 105, and the value of jiropertv at $4,000.

Attica Mission of the Metliodist Church, at Heed, was reorganized in 1872, and James Williams, Adolph SaUieres and Hiram Boyd were elected trustees November 30, 1872.

The English Lutherans organized in 1838, and in 1840-41, erected the Union Church, afterward controlled by the United Brethren. This church was sold for debt, piu'chased by Johnson Ford and used as a Union Chiu'ch for years.

*Er(itigclical Lutheran Congregation, originally consistod of German Lutlieran and German Reformed members who settled here between 1880 and 1N40. Rev. Conrad. Lutheran minister then residing at Tiffin. h(>ld the first services in 1S3-J-37 in private houses. In 1839 Rev. Kra ise also of Tiffin (Lutheran) was called and preached every fovu' weeks for about sis years. In 1!S42 during his stay hero the first ehm-ch was built, a log structure to the east of Caroline. In 1S43 a complete organization was effected and a constitution adopted, and the chiu'ch was known as the German Evangelical Lutheran and Reformed Congregation. Rev. Krause's successor was Rev. Robi'rt Graetz (now of St. Mary's. Ohio), 1S45-.J5. In December. 1855. Rev. \\". Schmogrow (deceased), then of Xew Washington, was called. In the spring of 1 857 dissatisfaction having arisen on the part of the Reformed on account of Lutheran isructiee at the Lord's Supper, a separation took place, both parties organizing separately. The Lutheran portion organized in the fall of the same year in accordance with the laws of the State as the "German Evangelical Lutheran Bethlehem Congregation of CiU'oline, Ohio." and adopted its own constitution. Its officers then were Conrad Lebold and Valentine Roehring. elders: Martin Smeltz and Jeremiah Smith, deacons: John Springer, Daniel Schaf and Jacob Faber. trustees. The constitution is still the constitution of the cougi-egation. The pastors following Eev. Schmogrow were Rev. Paul Mueller (now at AVichita Kas.): Rev. Carl Schmidt (now at HulAiard. Ohio): Rev. Buech enstein. Rev. W. Braunwarth, Eev. A. C. L'lrich (now at Nor walk, Ohio); Rev. Kramer (now at Castle Garden. New York): Rev. J. Krieger (now at Arlington. Ohio): firom May, 1883, to May, 1884. Rev. H. G. Suiter (now atBellevue, Ohio), and since June, 1884. Rev. Carl Ackermann. In 1870 the present'church was built at a cost of perhaps §2.500. This spring a new parsonage was seciu'ed. costing Sl,20(>. The German language was always the medium used in preaching until Rev. Suiter was called, since which time German and English have been used alternately. At present the congregation numbers about eighty communicant members. Mr. Leonard Sachs is the present secretary of the congregation. ^

English Reformed Church, at Carrothers, was founded some years ago. This church at Caroline claims a membership of 100 and a large chiuxh building. The Smiday-school of the chiu-ch at Carrothers was organized in April, 1885. with the following named officers: superintendent, G. S. McKee: assistant superintendent. P. H. Buchmau: secretary. Ida McClelland; treasurer, Katie Goetize.

.S.S'. Peter and Paul Church, of Attica, is modern in organization, but old in its membership. Previous to the year 1882. the few Catholics living in and around Attica, having no house of worship of their own, attended the nearest Catholic Church for religious services. At a social meeting in the spring of 1882 the first steps toward the organization of the SS. Peter and Paul congre gation were taken. The question of building a Catholic Church at Attica was then eagerly discussed by John and Frederick Steigraeyer and Seljastian Seiin, three of the oldest and most respected settlers of Attica: J. B. Blum. F. X. Snyder and Knipp Bros. The result was a subscription of $1,0110 for buying a suitable place for the intended church. Soon the work commenced and October 2Vt, 1882. the church was dedicated to divine service. July 17. 18S2. Rev. X. Htithmacher was appointed first i)astor of the newly organized congregation but no religious service was held before October 2'.', 1NS2. the day of detlication. The present membership comprises twenty-five families; the original number was six families. The value of the property is placed at $4.0(10.

The first death in the township was that of Esther, wife of Jonathan Ford, who died March 19, 1829. She was buried in the Scipio Cemetery. Samuel Halsted's child, who died shortly after, was interred in a field near the pike road, while Philip Muck's child was interred on the "Ford Farm. " where Johnson Ford donated and cleared a small cemetery.

Myers Cemetery Association was organized August 27, 1808. with Dr. J. C. Meyers, H. F. Myers, George W. Meyers, J. D. Meyers, D. Zimmerman, David Smith, D. C. Meyers, Abram Meyers and H. A. Meyers.

Venice Lodge No. 197, I. O. O. F. was chartered April 30, 1852, and elected trustees under the act of May 1, 1852, January 16, 1855. Jacob "Wise, C\Tus King and Michael R. Moltz were chosen trustees, and John L. Laraareaus, clerk. The names of original members are Isaiah Fredrick, M. R. Moltz, David Bennett, W. H. Cronkite. "William Croxton, George W. INIoltz, J. L. Kinuaman, J. P. Kinnaman, Solomon Gambee. The roll of Past Grands embraces the following names: J. L. Kinnaman, David Bennett, Isaiah Fredrick, George W. Moltz, W. Sourwine, Leonard Butts, "W. V. B. Ames, A. S. Wickwu-e, Samuel Wise, C. Link, R. Willoughby, I. Barrick, Samuel Heabler, Thomas Neeley, Jacob Wise, J. R. Strandler, J. W. Simpson, A. Stout, Charles Schottler, W. King, E. W. Fink. M. R. Moltz, J. L. Couch. D. A. Boyle, CjTus King, J. L. LaMareaux, H. F. Myers, J. C. Meyers, L. A. Ringle, James Sowerwine, Jacob Decker, George Heabler, J. D. Meyers, H. Royce, Lester Sutton, J. A. Spencer, D. Y. Fink, Solomon Gambee, Mathias Dougherty, William Harman, W. Olds, W. Green, D. J. Xeikirk, J. T. ISIeyers, -H. A. xMeyers, David Heabler, "W. O. Heabler, G. H. Rice, ^\. T. Meyers, G. F. Drake, S. S. Lepard, J. C. Moore, J. Schottler, S. A. Willoughby. Fremont Wickwire, Howard Price, Charles A\'eidner and George Engelhart. J. W. Walker is secretary, and J. T. Meyers, to whom the writer is indebted for this sketch, is the recording secretary. The number of members is seventy, and value of lodge property, §8,000.

Rebecca Lodge No. 1 1 was organized here some years ago. Attica Lodge No. 367, F. &- A. M. was organized years ago. The greater number of names given in the history of the Odd Fellows' lodge are identified with this old Masonic circle. J. R. Strandler was Worshipful Master 'in 1878, Lester W. Sutton in 1879-85. W. Harman has served as secretary for some years. G. W. Friedley is the present secretary.

Attica Division No. 239, S. of T. , consisting of twenty members, reorganized January 21, 1853, and elected Johnson Ford, William McCauley and George W. Culver, trustees, and John L. LaMareaux, clerk.

Venice Township Farmers' Club, an old and useful organization, elected the following named oflficers in January, 1885: Wesley Hatton, president; David German, vice-president; Bert Rice, secretary; H. Hathaway, treasurer. Rice d- Cregloir Post No. 112. G. A. R., was organized under charter July 31, 1881, with the following members: William Harman, Thomas Neeley, P. M. Hershiser. D. J. Neikirk. W. M. Miller, W. H. H. Miller, George E. Prudeu, John H. Carpenter, F. M. Kelly, John Lebold, S. S. Seiple, James Pangbiu-n, George H. Rice, J. F. Fink, J. C. Moore. H. A. Libe. John Hodge, Isaac Lepard, S. T. Groves, C. Sheely, Daniel Hubble, William Luce, S. C. Giites, Jacob Wise, John Sherwood, Jacob Decker, W. H. Stevenson, Daniel Carpenter. D. Y. Fink and J. T. "\\'illiams. The post was named in honor of Stephen Rice and Jos(>ph Creglow, who were killed at AMnchester. They en- listed at Attica on the same day and were killed the same day. The Commanders were William Harmau, lSSl-8;^; D. J. Neikirk, 1883-85. J. H. Carpenter, Adjutant.

Review

The village of Attica in itself presents an index to the townshiji. Main Street is well built up in the business district, and claims some large businesslike mercantile houses, while, north and south, a wide boulevard extends, bordered by the neat cottage homos and substantial residences of the citizens. This street, in its extent and general appearance, compares very favorably with the residence streets of large cities. It is fast building up, and will uiitloubtedly continue to spread out until the village of Attica Station and old Attica are united by one well built up thoroughfare. The chiu'ches, schools, newspaper press, secret and l)enevolent societies, literary and art societies, and all the evidences of an advanced state in cultiu'e and wealth are found here, conferring on this southeastern village of the county an impress of Seneca" s gi'owth in all that contributes to public well being.

Small Villages

Can-others was laid out on Sections 32 and 33, August 21, 1873, by John Newman, surveyor, for James Can-others. The business interests are represented by the following: G. S. McKee, ]\Iartiu Phillips, Jacob Buchmaii, general stores: H. Einsel, grain and seed; A. Kerchner, boots and shoes: W. H. Moweiy, produce: A. Snyder, blacksmith: E. Albangh, lumber; O. Blust, saw-mill: Carson & Friedly, John Dellinger, stock dealers; Jacob Durr, wagon-maker; Huser & Knecht, tile factory; J. B. Falter, breeder of line stock; P. Regula. hotel: H. A. Brick, saloon; J. J. Deck, physician; G. S. McKee, postmaster: Henry V. Tmmpler. agent Pennsylvania Railroad Company.

The town of Caroline was j^rojected and svu-veyed by James Kilboui'ne for Hector and BvTon Kilbourne and Cornelius Gilmore February 28, 1828, on Sections 10 and 15. There is also on record a survey of the village, alleged to have been made in June, 1837, and protracted by L. E. Holtz in 1858 for James Kilb(jurni'. Jr. The name was confened in honor of Caroline, daughter of Cornelias Gilmore.

The tirst settler near Caroline was Cornelius Gilmore in 1827. Before the close of 1830 he built the tirst house in the village, and within the following ten years the population increased to twenty-seven. When Gilmore located at Caroline there were only fifteen families in Venice Township.

From 1830 to the present time the school system has been a cherished one in Venice Townslii]i. In the year mentioned a school building, a very jirimitive concern in material, architeetiu-e and course of study, was erected at Attica. Ten years later the - -Brick Schoolhouse" ' was erected on the site of the present schoolhuuse. which continued in use until 1857, when Levi Rice completed a more pretentious house at a cost of §1,328.42.

The Attica Grammai- School was instituted imder authority, given in the legislative act of March 4, 1851, which empowered the school board to levy a tax of 2 mills on the dollar for the support of this school. The vote on the sale of school land. Section IS, Venice Township, was recorded April 2, 1849, by Henry Smith, S. ^\oollett and Samuel Bemenderfer, judges of election, and November 3, 1S4U, the sale of Section IS in fractional Township No. 1, north. Range IS, was effected. \\'illiam F. Leonard purchased the east half of the southwest (luarter, and Andrew P. Smith the west half of the southwest

The schools of Attica presented the following statistics at the close of the school year of 1884: Local tax, §1,986. 54; total revenue. $3,575.82; expenditures, $2,426.31 ; one school building valued at $13,000; five teachers, average salaries, $67, 156 and $33, nimiber of male pupils. 106. of female pupils, 107, of whom 16 are pupils in the high school.

The condition of the schools of Venice Township at the close of the school year of 1884, is shown in the following statistics: Local tax, $4,224.63; total revenue. $7,917.28; expenditm-es; $5,234.06: schoolhouses, 13; value of property, $13,000; number of teachers, 27; average salaiy, $37 and $23; number of male pupils enrolled, 217: of female pupils, 185; total enrollment, 402.

General Statistics Conclusion

So much has been wi'itten in the general history relating to men and events connected with this division of the county, nothing remains for this chapter save a plain, matter-of-fact statement of its settlement and organization, of its [)ioneers and material progress. The professional men. the politicians, the soldiers of Venice have all been withdi'awn, as it were, from these pages to aid in making up the four chapters of the general history devoted to these subjects. There are other evidences of the principle. " "Robbing Peter to pay Paul," to be found here; but withal, the writer is confident that the transfer of such names and events to the general history will be found appropriate, insomuch that such transfer is justified by the generality of the subject or its special adaptation to the chapter wherein it finds mention.

Biographical Sketches

-JOHN AKMATAGE, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Carrotheis. was boiii ill Baltimore. Md.. December 15, ISOfi, sou of Roger and Margaret (Hayes) .Irmatage, also natives of Maryland, of English descent, and who were parents of fonr cbildi'en, John being next to the eldest. Roger Armatiige was sexton ft)r the Society of Friends in Baltimore for many years. Onr subject recei\ed a limited education and first entjaged in drivinsr a milk wation and working in a daily, an occupation he followed for eleven years. He was an economical lad, and in 1S2U he started for the new county, settling in the woods of Venice Township. Previous to leaving Baltimore he had the method of tapping trei^s for sugar explained to him. and on arriving here, in the sugar season, immediately commenced operations and had tapped quite a number of oak instead of majile trees before he discovered his mistake, but before the season of 18:i() closed ho was a good hand at the business. He tirst entered eighty acres which he sold, then bought three eighties, and he has now 2( M) acres where he resides, located in Seneca and Crawford Counties. He has made farming the principal business of his life, and has l)een remarkalily successful. Mi-. Armatago was married, in 183(), to Mary Parlett, of English and Welsh descent, and this union was blessed with five children; Mary E., married to H. Royce and had three children (the family are all deceased); Rebecca, wife of Elisha Roberts, a farmer of Venice Township, this county; John W.. now a prom i neut farmer, born in Venice Township, this county, in 1884, married in 1858 to Elizabeth McClelan (had nine children: Wesley, George. Etta J. (wife of John B. McCibben), Thomas (deceased). CJharles, Alvin, Louis, Erwin and Bertie); Margaivt, wife of John A. Whitmire: George W. (deceased) was a farmer in early life, but later a merchant (he was twice nianued and by tirst wife had two children ; Robert, now a hardware merchant in Attica, and Bell, and by his second wife, two childi-en: William and Jay). Our subject is a Republican in politics. He and his family are members of the Protestant ilethodist Chunih.

ROBERT ARMATAGE, of the firm of Armatage & Wurts, dealers in hardware, stoves, tinware, farming imjileminits. spouting, paints, oils, etc.. Attica, was born in Venice Township, this county, April 8. 1801, sou of George W. and Mary J. (Walker) Armatage, natives of this county, and of German descent. His grandfather. John Armatage, now a prominent farmer of Venice Township, this county, settled here in 1827. George W. Armatage (subject's father) born in 1829, was reared on the farm, received a common school edu cation and made farming the lousiness of his life. He died in 1881. Robert, the eldest in a family of four children, grew up on the farm, attending the Attica school. When eighteen years of age he embarked in business on his own account, dealing in agricultural implements. His father l)ought a hardware store in 1888. and aftiu' his death the stock was purchased by the firm of Armatage & \\'urts. who are now cai'rving on the business.

E. D. BEMENDERFER. senior" member of the firm of Bemenderfer \ Co., manufacturers of sash, d )ors and l)linds. inanufactory located on Higli and West -Main Streets. Attica, was born in Stark County. Ohio, May 18. 18-12. son of Samuel and Chri.stine (Funk) Bemenderfer, natives of Virginia and

Ohio. i'('S])octivt>ly. and of (icrmaii descent. The fathc'i- of our subjcot. who settled in Venice Townslii]). this county, in ISl'J. and who was a successful farmer, died in ISM: of his eifijht childn>n, si>ven are now livinix. all residents nf Seneca C'ounty exce))t Jacol). wlio is now in New Mexico. The iauiily are members of the Lutheran Church. Our subject was reared on the farm, anil after ri'ceivin<r a common school education attendcHl the academy at Ke])ublic. and in early life tauf^ht school. In ]8(3<) he embarked in the manufacture of liandles and rakes, which in 1874 was merged into his present V)usin(>ss. The building is two stories high, nearly seventy feet square, and the firm employ tift(^en men. and manufacture about 1.000. 000 feet of luml)er annually. Mr. Bemenderfer was married, in 1S()7. to Mary Jane, daughter of John KoUer and of (lerman descent, by wliom h(> has two children: Esther and Hari-y. Mrs. Uemenderfer is a membei- of the Ha]>tist Church. Mr. Bemenderfer is a Prohil)itionist in ])olitics. and a menil)erof the I. O. O. F. He is now in the town council.

AV. K. BEMENDEBFIOK. farmer. P. (). Attica, was born on the farm where he now r(>sides, in Venice Township, this county. April '2. l.sr>1; son of Sajnuel Bemt>nderfer. who served in most of the township offices, moved to Attica in 1872. and for ten years previous to his death led a retired life: liis widow now resides in Attica. Ohio. Our subject, the seventh in a family of I'ight children, was edu<'ated in the district schools of his native county and has followed farming all his life. He is now owner of eighty acres of wellimproved land. He was united in marriage, in i87H. with Susan, daughter of Jacob and Mary (Murray) Hoke, former of whom, of (Tcrman descent, was a miller, farmer, and an early settler of Venice Township, this county. To our subject and wife has l)een born one child, EHie May. Mr. Bemenderfer has acted as school director of Venice Township.

HARRY G. BLAINE, jihysician. Attica, was born in Wheeling. W. Xii.. November 2^^, lSr)8; son of William I. and Nancy (Voshall) Blaine, the former a native of Pennsylvania, of p^nglish descent, the latter of Ohio, of Welsh lineage. \\ illiam I. Blaine, who has been a printer and editor nearlv all his life, is now eiliting the Atlirn .Iniiniiil. Our subject, the third in a family of six children, received his education in the schools of Eostoria. Kepul)lic and .Vttica, this coimty, and at the age of sixteen commenced to teach school. W hen nineteen years old he entered the office of Dr. J. M. Parker, of Attica: in 1880 he attended the Medical College at Columbus, Ohio, and afterwai-d the Indiana Medical College at Indianajiolis. from which he graduated in 18S2. He is now a member of the l>oard of i-egents of that institution. The Doctor commenced the publication at Attica, in 18S4, of the Mi'clical Coiujh'ikI. a monthly journal of ])ractical me<licine, having a large circulation. He also owns the office of the Allien .loiinidl. of which his father is editor. The Doctor commenced the practice of medicine at Reedtown. this county, in 1882. and in 1888 came to Attica. He is an honorary member of the Toledo Medical College Association, of the Northwestern Ohio Association aiid the Ohio State Association. In May. 1885, he was elected demonstrator of practical anatomy in the Toledo Medical College, and later he was chosen as ]irofessor of diseases of women and children iu the same institution, which position he now holds. He is a F. &. A. !M. The Doctor was married, in 1877, to Lucy E., daughter of James ShanlTs. a farmer of Hiu'on County, Ohio, and of (leinian descent. The children born to this union are Ernest (t. ami Earl H. ((wins). Harrv S. and William Cr. O.

pie, former of whom was u farmer all through life. They reared a family of four children, John B. being the third born. Om- subject was educated in France and Germany, and came to America April 4, 1850, first settling in Stark County, Ohio, but a year later came to this county where he has since followed agriciiltui'al piu'suits. Ho now owns two well-improved farms in Venice Township. i\If. Blum was married, in 1857, to Mary yi. , daughter of John and Catherine (Seen) Steigmeyer. Her father, a farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Switzerland in 1811, there received his education, and in 18:55 came to America, settling two mdes west of Attica, this county, on the farm where he still resides. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Blum ai'e Susan, wife of William Hahl (have foiu' children: Maiy M. , Rosa D. , John S. and Edward), and Frank J., who is still at home. IMr. and Mrs. Bhmi are members of the Catholic Chiu-ch. In politics he is a Democrat.

LEWIS BOLLINGER (deceased) a pioneer farmer of Seneca County, Ohio, was born in Germany. September 14, 1825. He was reared and educated in his native land and came thence to Stark County, Ohio, hi 1842, settling on a farm where he remained two years. He then came to this county and bought thirty acres of land in Venice Township. He was a prudent, industrious man. and at the time of his death, which oceiuTed June 28, 1.S8(1 owned 250 acres of well-improved land. He was married in this county, in 185t(. to Margaret, daughter of Conrad Plouch, a farmer. Her parents w'ere of German origin. To Mr. and JL's. Bollinger were born the following chikb'en: Margaret, wife of George Duerr, a resident of Michigan: Phili]): Catherine, wife of Samuel Kemrick; Lewis W., married and farming: Louisa, wife of David Zellars; Mary E.,wife of Charles Deisler: and Henry, Daniel, Alexander F. and John F. at home. They are members of the German Reformed Church. Philip, who is a farmer and stoek-raiscr, was born February 20, 185:3, on a farm in Venice Township, where he was rearc'd and received a common school education, aud-iiere he still resid(>s. He was married, in 1878, to Anna Mary P'ink, born in Pennsylvania, of Dutch origin, and by her he has three children: Ida, George F. and John F. Lewis Bollinger, the subject of this sketch, was a )>rominent Democrat, and dui'ing his life held most of the public offices of Venice Township; he was frecjuently chosen l)y his party as a delegate to political conventions, and was often a memljer of the grand jurv at Tiffin.

A. B. BRANT, dealer in grain, seed, salt and baled hay, came to Attica at the time of the bitilding of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, and began dealing in lumber and grain, abandoning the former in 1882. He is a native of Cumberland County. Penu., born July 11, 1848; son of Michael and Elizabeth (Bowermaster) Brant. He received his education in the country schools, and began business for himself at seventeen years of age. following farming and stockdealing until embarking in his present business. He came to Ohio in 184^), and to this county in 1800. He was married, in May, 1S()(^ to Mary J. Myers, who died in 1871, and by her he had one child - Millie. His second marriage, in March, 1875, was with Loa M. Couch. Mr. Brant is an energetic business man, and has held important positions in Reed and Venice Townshi]is. He is a member of .Attica Lodge No. :5('>7, F. A: X. M. . also of the chapter at Republic, Ohio.

P, A. BUCHM.VN. retired merchant and farmer, Carrothers. was born in Bloom Township, this county, June 18, 1843; son of Adam and Catherine (Fike) Buchman, natives of Bavaria, Germany, who immigrated to America, and located in Pennsylvania, where they resided three years; came then, in 183:5, to this county, and settled on a farm in Bloom Township, whi're Adam Buch- man (lied in ISM. Thi-ir family cousistetl of oiirht fbildivu, three sons and three daughters attaining matimty. five of whom are now living. Our subject, the second born, was reared on the farm, anil followed agricultural jmrsuits until 1874, when he came to Carrothers and opened a gen(>ral store, subsequently admitting his brother. Jacob, as partner, to whom he sold his interest in ISTo. and wh(; is now conducting the business. Our subji'ct built the lirst dwel ling house in. Carrothers. He has been financially successful, and now owns a farm of 100 acres in Bloom Township, and property in CaiTothers, where he resides. He was married, in ISCyO, to Rosa, daughter of Jacob and Annie (Neice) Brillhart, of (yermau descent, and to this union were born the following children: ^S"illiam, Ada, liobert. Dellie. Jacob and Early. ,Mr. and Mrs. Buchman are members of the Reformed Church, of which he is deacon, and of which he served as a member of the l)uilding committee. Politically he is a Democrat.

JOHN H. CARPENTER, deputy United States_ marshal, Attica, was born in Richland Township. Huron Co., Oliio. October '2i. 184>5; son of Araasa A. and Catherine (Huffman) Carpenter, the former a farmer, born in Steuben County, N. Y. , of Scotch descent, the latter a native of Pennsylvania, of German lineage. Amasa A. Cari^enter came to Seneca County, Ohio, in lS4r). and lived on a farm until his death in 18.")."). Our subject, the eldest in a family of four chikh'on. was reared on the farm, receiving his education in the Attica schools and academy at Re])ublio. He enlisted during the lat(> Rel)ellion. in 180'J, in Com])any I. One Hundred and Twenty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served till the clost; of the war. He was twice taken prisoner, on tirst occasion managing to effect his esca[)e; the second time was just before the close of the war. and he received his discharge in prison. He participated in several battles, and was at ^Vinchester when Geu. Sheridan aiTived and turnful defeat into victory. After his retiu'n Mr. Carpenter fai-meil for a titne. He was married, in 18()7. to Susan, daughter of John Sutton, and a si.ster of Lester Sutton, of Attica, by whom h(> has one son Harry E. Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter are members of the Methodist Protestant Chtu'ch. Mr. Carpenter came to Attica in 1S70. and worked at the carpenter's trade here. He served for a time as constable, and for fouileen years as marshal of Attica, and in 18S() was a])pointed dej)nty United States mar.shal. In coiuiection with his ofMcial duties he also deals in I'eal estate.

J. W. C.\RS()N. farmer and buyer and shipper of live-stock, P. O. Attica. w-as born in Harrison Comity, Ohio, December 'S. 1S18; son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Wiloughby) Car,son. natives of Pennsylvania, members of the M(>thodist Chiu'ch: the former, who was a farmer, was liorn in 1788. of Irish descent, served in the war of IS 12. came to Venice Township, this county. A[)ril 1 1. lS8o. and died here in his seventy- ninth year: the latter, of German and English lineage, lived to be seventy-one years old. They were parents of eleven children, eight of whom are now living. Our subject's grandfather. Robert Cai-son. served as a soldier all through the Revolutionary war and early came to this county, where he died in LSM'!: his wife died in Mcay. 188(). and was the first one buried in the graveyard, neai- what is kniiwn as the Swam]> Church. Our subject received a common school education, and for nearly a - (uarter of a century has dealt extensively in stock. He is owner of a fine farm of eighty acres on which he resides, and some land in Dakota. He was man'ied. February 4, 1841, to Mary Ann, daughter of Maurice and Hannah (Davis) ^Nfoore, the former born in 1707, the latter June '21. 181)0. ami who had a family of thirteen children, twelve attaining maturity and nine still living. Mr. Moi)re. a farmer by occupation. was one of the pioneers of Seneca County, com- ing hero in IS^U. Heclied October 7. 1SS8, bis wife liaviiig preci-dt'd liiiu Feliruarj' 10, same year. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Carson was blessed with twelve children, nine growing to manhood and womanhood, of whom eight are now living: Margaret Jane, wife of John H. Gaddis. a farmer of Venice Township: Hannah Ann. wife of John L. Retting, a farmer in Huron County, Ohio: Sarah M. . wife of John Harter, a farmer in Crawford County, Ohio; S. B. , an extensive land agent in Dakota, and also the owner of over 1,00(1 acres of land on which the town of Ctirson is located: Eliza A., wife of Henry "Werder, a farmer of Van Wert County. Ohio; Mary F., wife of A. M. Friedley, a merchant in Attica: Ida May. wife of Frank C. Myers, a merchant in Attica, and Louetta, wife of Hemy S. Hayes. Mrs. Carson is a member of the United Brethren Church. Mr. Carson is a great reader and usually takes fi-om eight to ten newspapers. He has served as assessor and townshij) trustee. Politically ho is a Republican.

JAMES L. COUCH, justice of the peace. Attica, was born in Niles Township. Cayuga Co., N. Y.'. May -"i. ISIO: son of Joel B. and Phoebe (Ladow) Couch, the former a native of Connecticut, of English descent, the latter of Saratoga County, N. Y. . of French lineage. They were the parents of twelve children, eio-ht of whom grew to manhood and womanhood. James L. . the fourth born, was reared on the farm, receiving a common school education, and at the age of eighteen learned the wagon-maker's trade, at which he worked for many years. He was married, in 1 834. to Celestia. daughtei- of Asahel Wood, and the childi-en now living that were born to this union are Frances, wife of Isaac Raymond; Joel B. , mai'ried, living in Napoleon. Henry CoTinty. Ohio; Mary E., wife of Williard Oreen. and Celestia A., wife of David A.Boyle. Mrs. Conch died in IS.'iO, and our subject subsequently married Marj' H. Wheeler, a cousin to his first wife, by whom he had thiee children: Addie E. , wife of A. B. Low: Loa M. . wife of A. B. Brant; and Nettie W.. wife of Rev. J. F. Rice, a minister in charge of the Universalist Church, at Attica. Mr. and Mrs. Couch are members of the Universalist Church here. Mi-. Couch moved to Huron County, Ohio, in 1837, settling in Bronson Township; in 184S he located in Norwich Township. Hm'on County, where he farmed and built a saw-mill, which he ran successfully several years; then came to Attica, in 1S7"2. He is a Democrat in politics and has tilled several of the township offices of Bronson and Norwich Townships in Huron County, and Venice Township in this county. He has served as mayor of Attica; three terms as justice of the ])eace, and also as township and village clerk of Venice and Attica, respeetivelv. He is a F. tV" A. M. . and a member of the I. O. O. F.

CYRUS N. C_RABBS, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Seneca County. Ohio. October 10, 1857. and is the youngest of the five sons of James Madison and Mary N. (Houston) Crabbs. the former a native of Pennsylvania, of Englisli descent, the latter born in Ohio, of Revolutionary parentage. James M. Crabbs was a carpenter by ti-ade, also had possession of a large farm situated in Seneca County. By haid work and exposure to bad weather, he contracted a cold which terminated in death; he left five young boys. Oiu' sul)ject was reared oji the farm, attended the common schools in Venice Township and olitaini'd a collegiate educatiou at Valparaiso. Ind. He chose teaching as his profession, went to Mansfield, Ohio, took a regular teacher's course and graduated in 187U. He has taught in this county every winter, except one, since he was nineteen years of age. Mr. Crabbs is a good scholar, an able debater and a fine political speaker. He is a Republican in jiolitics and took an active part in the campaign <}f 18S4. making several speeches. Oiu' snlijeet hasbeeti twice married: on first occasion in 1881. to Ellen, daughter of John Crothers; sh(> dying in 1SS2, Mr. Cr.ibbs wa.s again married, this time in 1884, to Miss Jennie, (laughter of Peter Keesy, a prominent farm(>r of Huron County, Ohio, and of English descent. Mi-s. C'ralihs is a member of the United Brethren Church.

D. J. DECK, physician, Carrothers, was born in Lebanon County, Penn., August 22, 18.")."), and is the only son of Jacob and Maria (Wise) Deck, also natives of Pennsylvania, and of (Jernian descent. .Jacob Deck, who was twice married, has be(>n a farmer all his life. Our subject, who is the youngest of six children, obtained his literary education at Palatinate College, Pennsylvania, whence he graduated in 1878. After traveling in the Western States one year he returned to Harrisburg, Penn., studied medicine and was admitted to practice in 1877, having graduated from the ITniversity of Pennsylvania, Philadeli>hia. He then came to INlcCutchenville.Ohio. ;uul the same year to Carrothers, where he has since remained in active practice. He was married, in 1877, to Almira. daughter of Benjamin and Eliza (Miller) Reemo, who were of German origin, and to this union have been born thr(>e childi'eu: Keeme, Dessie and Elabel. Mrs. Deck is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics Dr. Deck is a Republican. He is a member of the Patriotic Sons of America and of the Masonic fraternity, and is a member of the CleiTuan Lutlieran Church.

PROF. RUSSELL B. DRAKE, superintendent of public schools, Attica, was born in A\'ood County, Ohio, January 1."), IHW. son of Joseph and Rosanna (Bowers) Drake, natives of Pennsylvania and Virginia, respectively, and of English descent. His father, a farmer by occupation, was a jiioneer of Wood County, Ohit), and obtained land from the Government, President Jackson (whom he had i)reviously voted for) signing the deed. Our subject, the youngest in a family of seven children, lived on the farm until seventeen years of ag(\ when h(> graduated at Fostoria High School and commenced teaching school for the piu'pose of obtaining funds to prosecute a thorough classical education. He then attended Oberlin College, and while at that institution, in 1875, received a favorable offer and accepted the superintendency of the public school at Allouez, Mich., where he remained for two years. He then went to Central Mine. Mich., where he was superintendent of a school for foiu' yeai's. In 1888 the Professor accepted his present i)o.sition. He was man'ied, March 28, 1878, in Hancock County, Ohio, to Miss Ruth, daughter of J. Redfern. whose parents were natives of England. Her father, a fiirmer, was on(> of the early pioneers of Hancock County, Ohio. Mi's. Drake has also taught school and was one of Mr. Drake's assistants while in Michigan. Their children are as follows: Alba A., Lillie A. and William A. Oiu- subject and wife are members of the Methodist Church, in which he is class leader, and while in Michigan was licensed to jireach. Mr. Drake is also teacher in and assistant supei'intendent of the Sabbath-school. He is a member of the I. O. O.F. and A. O. U. M'. societies.

JACOB EBERSOLE, retired farmer, Attica, was born in Cumlierland (bounty, Penn., Septemlier 12, 18tl7, son of .John (a farmer) and Elizabi>th (Eberly) Ebersolc, natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. Of their nine chililren, Jacob, the second born, was reared on a farm, receiving a common Bchool education. He has made fanning the business of his life, and has resided in Venice Township, this county, since 1884. He settled in the woods when he came here, and thinks he has cleared 200 acres of heavily timbered land with his own hands, the first being 1t)0 acres, which he obtained from the State, and seventy acres which he purchased and lately sold to Isaac, the second .son that is living. Since ISliC) Mr. Ebersole has resided in Attica. He bought eleven acres of land near the village, when he came here, the most of which he has laid out in town lots. He was married, in 1832, to Mary, daughter of John Rarisk, and of Pennsylvania-Dutch descent. Their children ai'e as follows: Henry, Mary, Elizabeth, Isaac, Amanda. Emma and Andrew. Mrs. Eber.sole dying in 1853. our subject was married, on second occasion, to Sophia E. Burns, a native of Kentucky, daughter of Michael and Sarah (Barlow) Bums, of English descent, the latter born in New York, both of whom lived and died in Kentucky. This union has been blessed with one child- -Eva. Mrs. Ebersole is a member of the United Brethren Church. Politically Mr. Ebersole is a Republican.

J. B. FALTER, farmer and breeder of tine stock. P. O. Attica, was born in Germany December 20. 1826. son of Philip and Christina (Kerner) Falter, also natives of Germany, who came thence to Seneca County. Ohio, in 1833. Philip Falter, who was a shoe-maker in the old country and a farmer here, was twice married, and roared eight childi'on. J. B. being the youngest: the father died in 1842. Our subject was reared on the fanu. ol)taiuing his education in the log schoolhoiise. He is a good English scholar, and can read, though he cannot ^Tite/ the Crennau language. Mr. Falter has been very successful. When he started for himself his father gave him SIOO. and to-day he owns 142 acres of land, well stocked, etc. He was mairied. in 1853, to Margaret Steinmetz, born in Alsace. France, in 1832. daughter of Martin and Elizabeth (Lang) Steinmetz. also natives of Alsace, and who came to America in 1833, and settled on a farm in Seneca County. Ohio. To our subject and wife were born th(j following childi-en: Philmenia (wife of John C. Worm). Martha (wife of Nathan Worm). John Joseph. Mary Magdalena. Ida, Annie E. . William E. and Cornelius, all members of the Catholic Church. Mr. Falter has been school director for eleven years. In polities he is a Democrat.

A. H. FINK, junior member of the fiiTu of Bemenderfer <S; Co.. manufacturers of sash, doors and blinds. Attica, was born in ^Vayne County. Ohio, December (5, 1850, son of John R. and Matilda (MOler) Fink, natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. His father was a cai'penter and a farmer. Our subject, the eldest in a family of eight children, was reared on the fann and attended district school in Hiu'on County. Ohio. In early life he learned the carpenter's trade, at which he worked until he entered his present business. He came to Attica in 1871I. M]-. Fink was married, in 1874. to Martha L., daughter of Andi-ew Sheely. of (ierman descent, by whom he has one child - Charles. Mr. and Mrs. Fink are memliers of the Methodist Protestant Church at Attica. Although Mr. Fink was reared a Democrat, he is a radical Republican. He has made what he now possesses by his own exertions. He is a man of temperate habits.

ALFRED FORCE, physician. Attica, was born in the State of New York, June 8, 1822, son of Benjamin (a farmer) and Sophia (Caswell) Force, natives of New York and Massachusetts, resjiectively. and of English descent. Their family consisted of si.\; children, of whom Alfi'ed is the fourth. Our subject was reared on the faim. receiving his early education in his native State. He was united in marriage, in 1N41. with Lucinda. daughter of Lewis Davison, and of English descent, and their children are Alice, wife of S. Tackbury; Clarence C. , a physician, and AMntield S. , a medical student in Attica. In 1852 our suliject came to this county and commenced the study of medicine in the office of Dr. Franklin, at Tiffin, subsequently attending the Medical College, Cincinnati, Ohio. He was in active practice till 1804. when he enlisted in the One Huntb-ed and Eighty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was appointed assistant surgeon of the regiment : most of the time, however, he filled the position of siirgcou- nifijor. At the close of tlio war he was mustered out of service. The Doctor then practiced iu the State of New York until 188J. when he came to Attica, where he has since followed his profession. Dr. Force is a niembi-r of the Uiiiversalist Church.

A. M. FllIEDLEY, a memlier of the Jirm of Friedley Bros. . dealers in dry goods, groceries and queensware, Attica, was born in Venice Township, this county, Jamiary 1, IJSo^J, son of J. J. and Barbara (Link) Friedley. latter of whom was born in Germany ; her parents came to America when she was only two years old, and were among the tii-st .settlers of this county: her father. Jacob Link, cut.ered 'i-tO acres of- land, part of which is now owned by H. F. Myers, of Attica, and part by John Link. Our subject' s graudfather. Ludwiek Friedley. was born in Peimsyivaniu. of (ienuan descent, and was a farmer by occu])ation. settling in Venice Township, this county, in IN^JS. dying in ISTl. .J. J. FrietUey (subject's father) resided here from 1838. Ho was a farmer, and at his death owned 2:5(1 acres of well improved land. He died in 18S1. aged lifty-three years. A. M. Friedley, the subject of this sketch, was the eldest in a family of nine children -seven boys and two gii-ls. He received his education iu this county, and followed agricultm-al i)ursuits until 1880. when he embarked in his present business. He was man-ied, in 187D, to Mary F. Carson, of English descent, daugliter of J. W. Carson, and to this union have been born Alva J., Ida May, MjTtie Belle and Dessie Edith. Mr. and Mrs. Friedley are members of the "United Brethren Church. Politically he is a R('pul)liean.

JOHN L. FRIEDLEY, of the firm of Friedley Bros". , dealers iu dry goods, groceries and (pieensware. Attica, was iiorn in Venice Township, this county, January 11), lsr>,"S. son of J. J. and Barbara (Link) Friedley. He was educated at the normal school, Valparaiso. Ind.. and resided on tln> farm with hisparents iintil twenty-three years of age. He then came to Attica, this county, and clerked in the store of S. A. Ringle for two years. He and his brother. A. M. Friedley, then bought the stock and continued doing l)usiness in the same building. John L. Friedley was married, in IN82. to Jennie, daughter of Rev. Peter Tendrick, ;i minister of tlie Reformed Church, and of German descent. Mr. and Mrs. FriedleV have but one child. Grace B. They are members of the !J[ethodist Protestant Church. Our subject has served three yeai's as a member of the town council. In politics he is a Democrat.

S. C. GATES, a member of the fii-m of Bemenderfer & Co.. manufacturers of sash, doors and blinds, Attica, was born July 21, 1840, iu New London, Ohio, son of John and Rachel (Earl) Gates, natives of New Y'ork. and of English descent. Our subject, the second of three childi'en, received his (>ducation in the common schools of his native State, and followed droving from iSr),") (cattle iu summer and horses iu winter, selling in portions of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaw.'ire and Maryland). untU 18()l. when he enlisted in Company C, Sixty-tifth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, served three years and was mustered out as oi-derly-sergeant of his com])any. He participated iu the battles fought ;it Pittsburgh Landing and Chattanooga, Temi., and in several other engagements. At the close of the war he came to Ohio and settled in Hiu'on County, where he remained until 1808, when he removed to Seneca County, and in 18(5!) to Attica, where he manufactured cai'riages and wagons, and workt'd at the cari^enter's trade until 1874, since when he has successfully engaged in his present business. Mr. (rates was maiTied. in 1807, to SaraJi Carpenter, of Englisli descent, and by her he has one child. Edith. Mr. and Mi-s. Gates are members of the Baptist Clnn-ch at Attica, of which he is trustee and treasurer. In politics he is a Republican; has served as trustee of the townshij). and as a member of the school boanl.

SYLVANIS GRIFFITH, retired, Attica, was born in Madisou County, N. Y. . Marcli lit. ISOf). son of Doan and Luciuda (Eaton) (Ti-iflith, natives of New York and of Welsli descent, and whose family consisted of eleven cbildi'en. nine of whom attained maturity, Sylvanns being the next eldest. Doau Griffith was a weaver by trade, and also engaged in farming. OiU' subject was reared on a farm, receiving a common school education in his native State, and has followed agricultural piusuits all his life. In 188.") he settled in the woods of Huron Coniity, Ohio, antl impi'oved a farm where he lived until he retired fi-om active ]RU'suits in 1872, and bought and moved on his property in Attica, this county. He has been twice married, fu-st in 1888, to Elizabeth Abell, born in Vermont, of English descent, and w'ho died in 188(1. She was a member of the Methodist Chtu'ch. Mr. Griffith was manied. on second occasion, to Mrs. Electa (Beard) Richard, who had three children; ^^'ilsou, a farmer of AVood County. Ohio: George, a fanner, and Emma. Mr. Giiffith was formerly a Methodist, but since 1877 has been a member of the United Brethren Clmrch at Attica, and was a member of the bnilding committee when the new church was erected. His Avife has been an active member of this chiu'ch for several years.

J. Vt. HALL, member of the firm of Hall & Myers, projjrietors of fomidiy and machine shops. Attica, was l)orn in Niles Township, Tompkins Co., N. Y^, July 11, 1828, and is next youngest of the seven children born to William and Mary (Goodwin) Hall, natives of New Jersey and of English descent. His father came fi-om New York and settled in Scijiio Township, Seneca Co.. Ohio, among the early jiioneers. Om- subject accpiired a common school education, and attended the academy at Republic. He remained on the farm until seventeeu years of age; then leai'ued blacksmithing, and after serving an apprenticeship as machinist also learned the molder' s trade, serving in all foiu-teen years, and is master of his vocation. He came to Attica in 1S()G. and eml)arked in his present business. He manufactured for a time the iron beam plow which had an extensive sale, but he is now making a speciality of the land roller, an invention of his own. JL'. Hall was united in marriage, in 1851. with Hannah Ryno.a native of Steul)en (!ounty, N. Y., and of English descent, and their childi'en are William H. . a liuuber dealer: ^NaiTen R.. a molder i)v trade; Alcaineiia, wife of William Smeltz: George, living at Tittin. Ohio, and Elera. Mrs. Hall is a member of the Baptist Chui'ch. Mr. Hall has served as trustee of Reed Township, this county.

GEORGE H. HAMILTON, dealer in groceries, and iusm-auce agent. Attica, w\'is born in Venice Townshii), this cotmty. Januaiy 11, 1852, son of D. F. and Margaret (Carson) Hamilton, natives of Ohio and of English descent. Om- subject, the fourth in a family of ten children, received his education in the academy at Republic and Heidelberg College, at Tiifin. Ohio. At the age of seventeen years he commenced teaching school, a vocation he followed until he was twenty-two years old. and in 1878 embarked in his ])resent business in Attica. He was united in miirriage, in 1872. with Clara, daughter of David S. Jackson, and to this union were born the following children: Ora M.. Stewart F. and Clara Belva. Mr-, and Mrs. Hamilton are Tuembers of the Methodist Protestant Church, in which he has served as superintendent of the Sabbath-school for the past seven years. Mr. Hamilton is representing the Ohio Mutual Life Insurance Company, and the Washington Fire and Marine Insurance Company. In connection with his groceiy business he deals extensively in poultry.

Penn. , January 28, 1804, sou of Hugh ami Elizahetli (Orr) Hanna, natives of Ireland. His father, a weas'er by trade, immitrrated to America in 17'.)9 and settled in Cnniherland County, Penn. Our subject is the tliird born and the only survivor in a family of fonr chikli'en. His (>arly ineans for obtaining' an education were limited by his location in a newly settled country. In 1834 ho came to this county, catered laud, and although the countiy then abounded with wild game, never turned his attention to liunting, but devoted his time exclusively to farming. He has been very successful and owns 2 IS) acres of land on which h(> resides. He was married, in I82f), to Sarah, daughter of Samuel and Ellen (Crooks) McClelland, natives of Pennsylvania and of Scotch descent, and to this union were born Hugh K. , residing at Fostoria; Samuel McClelland (deceased): ^\ illiam, married and engaged in farming and teaching school: James, married and farming in Illinois; Sylvanus, man-ied and farming in Paulding County, Ohio: Tliomas S. , previously in business at Bloomville, this county, is now taking charge of the home farm; John, farming in 'NN'ood County, Ohio; INIartha E., wife of George Hull, of Fostoria; Sarah, wife of Frank Free, a farmer, and Elizaljeth, wife of Thomas A\"el)- stor. Mr. and Mrs. Hanna have together borne the hardships and privations of pioneer life, and by industry and j^rudent management of theii- resom-ces have accimiulated a handsome competency which will enable tliom to pass the residue of then- lives in ease and comfort. They ai'e members of the Presbytei-ian Church, in which Mr. Hanna has been d(>acon for many yeai-s. Ho has served his township as school director and assessor. Politically he is a Democrat.

WILLIAM HARMAN, dentist, and mayor of Attica, was born in Reading, Penn., November 15, 1840; son of Charles and Barbara Harman, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent, former of whom, a machinist by trade, died in 1850 when "William, who was the third in a family of five children, all now living, was not fjuite ten years old. Oiu- suliject thiMi clerked in a store until 18():{, when he enlisted in Company I. Foriyninth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. He was shot by a sharp.shooter at Cold Harbor, the musk(>t ball passing through his right shoulder and lodging in the right lung, where it still remains He received an honorable discharge by oi-der of the war department, July "Jo, 180'). Retiu ning home he studied dentistry at Selin's Grove, Penn., and in 180t) commenced to practice his profession in Indiana, where ho residetl for two years; thence moved to Michigan, and here ho remained until 1871, when he came to Attica, where he still continues to practice. 'Mi: Harman was maiTied, in 1808, to Lucy Graves, a native of Ohio, and of English descent. She is a member of the TJniversalist Church at .Vttica. The Doctor has supported himself since ten years of age. He ol)taiued his education by studying at nights and reading the newspaper.-;, having attended school but six weeks in his life. He was elected mayor of Attica in ISSO, which position he still (ills. He has taken seven degrees in the order of F. <fc A. M. , and has boon through all the chairs, and is Noble Grand of the I, O. O, F. Ho has been a member of these societies for foiu-teen yeai-s. Our subject was also first commander of the G. A; R. He is a memlier of the State Dental Association. In politics he is a Republican.

LEVI HICLIS. farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Venice Township, this county, Octolier (>. 1848. son of John and Sarah (Cummins) Hillis, natives of Maryland, and of Irish descent. His father, born in Ireland in 1S()(>. came to .Vmcrica and direct to Seneca County, Ohio, settling on a farm in Venice Township in 1S40. where he spent the remainder of his life, dying in ISTij. He was a sucressful fanni'V, at (lie time of Ms death nwnod I 'Jl^ iicies of land. Our subjoct, the ninth in a family of eleven ehildi'en, was reared on the farm, and he now owns a farm in Venice Township, whereon he resides. He was nniti^d in mairiage, in 1S78, with Sophia, daughter of Martin Smeltz, of German descent, who has always been a farmer. Politically Mi'. Hillis is a Democrat.

ANDEEW HOEEN, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Baden. Germany, February 2'.t, 182S, son of Jacob and Susan (Frj^) Hoern. His father, a blacksmith, and who came from Germany in 1849, settling in Venice Township, this county, had two sons : Andrew, and Jacob, now a farmer in Michigan. Orusubject was educated in Germany, and at the age of fouiieen learned blacksmithing. Hi' worked at his trade for several years after coming to Venice Township. l)ut has made farming the principal business of his life, having met with mark(>il success, and is now the owner of 360 acres of fine land in this county, 1(')() being in Reed Township, and the remainder, on which he resides, in Venice Township. He was man'ied, in ISoo, to Maria Zutavern, born in Bloom Township, this county, in 1837, daughter of Henry and Jlaria (Geiger) Zutavern. also natives of Germany. Their children are Jacob and Henry (man-ied and residing on a farm in Peed Townshiii), and Margaret, Susan, Amelia, Gooi-ge. Lucinda, Caroline and Laui'a (at home). The family are members of the Reformed Church. Politically Mr. Hoern is a Democrat.

DAVID HOLMES, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Attica, was liorn in Venice Township, this county, in lSi'6, and is the youngest of eight chikb'en. He received his education in his native county, and was reared on the farm. He learned the blacksmith's trade, but has made agricultiu'o the principal occupation of his life. He owns 250 acres of land in Huron Coimty, Ohio, and has the controlling interest in the home farm of 226 acres, which he manages and on which he resides. Mr. Holmes is a Democrat. He has served as school director and trustee of Venice To\\"nphip. He took an active interest in the Grange movement, and was Master of a lodge in that order. His father, John Holmes, who resides with hiiu, was born October 30, 18U7, in Jefferson County, Ohio, son of John and Sarah (Norris) Holmes, natives of Pennsylvania, the former of whom served all through the Revolutionary war. John Holmes, .Jr., who has been a farmer all his life, was married, in 182'J, in Can-oil County, Ohio, to Sabina, daughter of William and Elizabeth (Bunton) Hillis, and of Irish descent, and by her he had the following children: Elizabeth, wife of George D. Moore; Sarah, wife of B. F. Slough; Rebecca W., wife of L. Palmerter; Amos, a resident of Michigan; John Q. , a resident of Putnam County, Ohio; Almeda; Emaline (deceased); and David the subject of this sketch.