Venice Township (part 3 of 3)

J. W. HUFFJIAX, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Attica, was born in Columbiana County, Ohio. August 29, 1837, and when two years of age was brought to Venice Township, this county, by his parents, Jacob and Catherine (Weaver) Hnlfinan. natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. They had a family of ten children, all of whom attained maturity, J. W. being the ninth born. Jacob Huffman, the father of oiu- subject, who was a farmer, tirst settled in Ohio in 182."), and died in Venice Township in 185,"). Our subject's brother Adam lost his life in the late war of the Rebellion. J. W., the subject of this sketch, was ]-(>ared on the farm and during the winter attended the log schoolhouse, i-ecoiving at the age of twenty- one years a teacher's certificate. During the late civil war he enlisted, in 18()1. in the Sixty-lifth Ohio Volunteer Inf.uitry, and was discharged in 1862 on account of disability. In July. 186:-5. ho re enlisted in the Eighty-seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He now own.-; a fiu'in of ISd acres, and has ni:ido agriculture the business of his life. He WHS married, in 1867, to Sarah L. Muore, of English and German (loscent. Her father, ^Faurico Moore, obtained land from the Government, the deed being signed by Gen. Jaekson. Mi\ and Mrs. Hnffman have tive children: Blanche, a teacher; Icedore: Ernest A. W., born August 27, 1871. ilied April 28, 1872; Ashley J. and Eoss. "Sir. and Mrs. Huffman and tw^o <!ldest children are members of the Baptist Chiu-ch, in which he is deacon. Mr. Huffman takes a deep interest in educational matters.

MICHAEL HULL, retiied farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Bedford County, Penn., September 7, 1807, tenth in the family of fourteen childn>n. of Jacob and Elizabeth (Souder) Hull; the former, a farmer, a native of Germany, the latter a native of England. Michael Hull was reaj-ed on a fiirm, receiving a common school (>ducation in Pennsylvania, and has made agi-iculture the business of his life. He was married, in 18<5('), to Barbara, daughter of George and Betsey (Forney) Free, natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. This maiTiago has been blessed with ten children - seven boys and tkree girls: Elizabeth (deceased wife of Christian Lebold); Joaniut, wife of Jacob Besh, brother of S. B. Resh, of Venice Township; Otha H. , married and farming in Hem-y County, Ohio; George F., a farmer near Fostoria, Ohio; Jacob B. , living on a farm in Fulton County, Ohio; John W. ; Silas R. ; William H. ; Amanda, wife of Milo D. Benton; and A. W. Three of the sons served in the late war of the Rebellion: Otha H. enlisted at the commencement of the struggle and served till the close of the war; (ieorge F. and Jacob B. were in the 100 days' service. Mr. Hull came to this county in 1834 and bought 51)0 acres of land on Section 7, in Venice Township, where he still resides. He has been i-emarkably successful as a famier and has been able to give each of his daughters §2,000 when they were married, and to each of his sons eighty acres of land. No stranger has ever been turned from th(>ir door empty. Mr. and Mi-s. Hull were members of the Dunkard Society. The foiu" sons who own farms in Venice Township are as follows:

John W. Hull, who was born June lU, 184(3, acquired his education in this county an<l has made farming the business of his life. His residence is one of the best in the mnghborhood. He was maiTied in Hancock County, Ohio, in 18()7, to Elizabeth, daughter of Andrew Zimmerman, of German descent, and had six children: Celestia Ann, Joseph A., Ada L. (deceasc^d), Altio I. , Alfred H. and Flora Amanda. The family are members of the English Reformed Chuirh.

Silas R. Hull, who resides on his farm, adjoining his father's on the west, was born May 25, 1847, and rean-d on the farm in Venice Township, and received his education in the common schools of Seneca County. He was married, in 1872, to Anne, daughter of John and Almira (Snyder) Rogers, former of whom, of English descent, was one of the early pioneers of this county; latter was of Gorman descent. To Mr. and Mrs. Silas R. Hull were born five children: Peny G. , Edward E. . Jennie Belle (deceased), David C. and Eva AlmLi-a. In politics Mr. Hull is a Republican.

AViLLiAM H. Hull, whose farm is located north of his father's, was bom December 15, 1848, in Venice Township, this county, and was reared on the farm, acquiring his education in his native county and in the academy at Republic, and has followed agriculture all his life. He was married, in 1872, to Lorenia, daughter of Samuel and Lorenia (Green) Finch, of English descent. William H. Hull is the only Democrat in his family.

A. W. Hull, the youngest of Michael Hull's children, owns the home farm, where his parents still reside. He was born October 3, 1858, and was educated in Seneca County, Ohio. He was married, in 1879, to Miss M. Lepard, daughter of Isaac and Sarali ( Woollett) Lepard, of German descent. Mi. and Mrs. A. W. Hull are parents of A'za B. , Ida May and Mina Belle. Mrs. Hull is a member of the Baptist Chiu'ch in Attica. Mi-. Hull is a staunch Republican in politics.

DAVID S. JACKSON, proprietor of saw-mill. P. O. Attica, was born in Brooke County, Va. , April 7, 1819, son of William and Sarah (Steward) Jack son, parents of nine children, David S. being the fourth born. His mother was a native of Virginia, of English descent: his father, born in Pennsylvania, of Irish descent, was a farmer and came to Crawford County, Ohio, in 1825. Oiu' subject received a common school education and wisely chose to follow the honest occupation of his father. At present he is owner of ninety-two acres of well-improved land. In 1884 ]\Ir. Jackson moved to Attica and embarked in the saw-mill business in company with his son-in-law E. D. Work. his present partner. Mi-. Jackson was married, in 1840, to Louise M. , daughter of Joseph Kennedy, of English descent, and to this union were born the following childi-en: Ozro, Sarah E., Margaret J., !Maiy Ann, Ezra and Charles. Mrs. Jackson dying in 1853, our subject was again married,this time, in 1858, to Mrs. Margaret Aun (Fansler) Hill, a widow, by whom he has had iive children: Clara, Julia (deceased), Laura. David and Melvin. Of these Julia was married, October 10, 1878, to E. D. Work, who was born in Pennsylvania, September 13, 1854, and is the son of John and Mary (Doty) Work (the issue of this union was one chUd, Leona). Mrs. Work died January 23, 1883. ]\Ii-. and Mrs. Jackson are members of the Reformed Church. In politics he is a Democrat; he served as township trustee when he resided on the farm in Hui'on County, Ohio.

REV. \Y. ALLEN KEESY, minister of the United Brethren Church. Attica, was born in Huron County, Ohio, Jidy 25, 1843; son of John and Elizabeth (Gouse) Keesy. (The name Keesy was originally spelled Geesy. ) His parents, of German origin, reared a family of ten children in Huron County, Ohio, where the father, John Keesy, a farmer, resided for many years and died in 1859. Oui- subject enlisted, in 1861, in Company I, Fifty-lifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving until 1862, and participated in the following battles and skirmishes: Moorlield, Franklin. Cidpeper, Cross Keys, Strasbm-g and Bull Run, in Virginia, and was discharged on account of disability; but, in 1864, he again enlisted in his country's defense, serving as a non-commissioned officer in the Sixty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with which regiment he was j^resent at the battles of Spring Hill, Franklin, and two days at Nashville. He was reared on the farm, attending the common schools, and, on his return from the army, the Normal School at Milan, Erie Co., Ohio; commenced to teach school on his retiuii fi'oni Milan, and taught for five terms. He was admitted as a member of the f nited Brethren Church in 1864, licensed to exhort in 1867, was admitted to the annual conference in 1872, and regularly ordained in 1875. He first took charge of the Huron Mission, next the Honey Creek Cu'cuit, then the Shelby Station, Richland Circuit, Chicago Junction (where he remained three years), thence going to Fostoi'ia and Clyde. He has served the conference three years as presiding elder, two years of that time being spent in Sandusky District. He was stationed at Attica in 1883. Rev. W. A. Keesy is an able speaker, convincing orator, a diligent worker and faithful student. He has been twice married, first, in 1868, to Maggie J., daughter of Rev. S. T. Lane, a minister of the United Brethren Church. Of the three children born to this union two are now living: Minerva and Mary. Mr. Keesy lost this wife by death in 1873, and in 1875 he was mairied to Augusta Charles, by whom he has five children: Flora, Oceola. Leona Silvesta, and Edith and Ethel (twins).

THOMAS KEiVIP, farmer, P. O. Now Washington, Crawford County, was born in Washington County, Penn.. October 2, 1818; son of David and Sarah (Ward) Kemp, former a native of Virginia, of German descent, latter bom in Pennsylvania, and of English lineag(!. His father, David Kemp, who, in an early day was a cabinet-maker, came to this county in 1880, settling in the woodfci of Venice Townshi]>. Our subject, the sixth in a family of twelve children, all of whom grew to manhood and womanhood, was reared on the farm and has always followed agricultural piu-suits; ;it present he is owner of eighty acres of land on which he resides. He was married, in 1841, to Elizabeth, daughter of Maurice and Hannah (Davis) Moore, and of nine children born to this union seven have been school teachers: William, an attorney in Indiana; Maurice, a carpenter and teacher, residing in Eerea, Ohio; George, a farmer and school teacher, residing in Wisconsin; David J., a merchant of Young America, Ind. ; Hannah S. , a school teacher; John L.. a farmer and teacher, residing in this county; Fiuley L. ; Emily J. and Frank .Theodore, a farmer. Mr. and Jlrs. Kemp are members of the United Brethi'cn Church. Politically he is a Republican.

EDWARD KINNEY, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Scipio Township, this county, April 3, 1883; son of Patrick and Jane (Swoney) Kinney, natives of Ireland, who had a family of six childi'en, five attaining matiu-ity. His father came fi'om Ireland to America when a young man, and was married in the city of Philadelphia, Pemi. ; came to this county in 1829 and owned a farm in Scipio Township where his son, Edward, who was next to the eldest child, lived luitil seventeen years of age. In 1852 the subject of this sketch started across the plains for California, remaining in the mining regions of the Pacific coast for seven years. Dui'ing this time his fath(>r lost his eyesight.and, on receiving the sad news, Edward, who wasadutiful son. immediately retui-ned and lived with his father until the latter' s death in 1873. In the fall of the same year Edward Kinney was united in marriage with Mary A., daughter of Matthew Delaney, of Irish origin, and to this union were born two children: Anna Bertha and John F. They are members of the Catholic Chiu'ch. Mr. Kinney is owner of 100 acres of well-improved land whereon ho resides. In politics he is a Democrat.

A. W. KNIGHT, ])hysician and surgeon, Attica, was born near Tifiin, this county, May 31, I8r)f); son of Thomas and Mary (Powell) Knight, also native Ohioans, of English descent, who were the parents of sioveu children, of whom A. ^\'. is third. His father, a farmer, and still a resident of this coimty, took great interest in educating his children, giving thejn the advantages of the best schools. Oiu- subject graduated from Wooster University in 1879. receiving the degree of B. S. . and has since had the degree of M. S. confeired upon him by that institution. He commenced the study of medicine in the oflice of Dr. J. F. E. Fanning, but after remaining there only five months entered Miami College, Cincinnati, where he gi'aduated in 1884. He then commenced and has since continued practice in Attica, this county. Politically the Doctor is a Rei)ul)lican.

NOAH LAPHAil, rt>tired farmer. P.O. Attica, was among the early pioneers of this county, where he has resided since 182(5. He is a native of the State of New York, born August 4. 1813; third in the family of ten chikb'on of JoK(>ph and Levina (Holland) Lapham, natives of Massachusetts, and of English descent. Joseph Lapham came to Scipio Township, this county, in 1820, nbtained laud from the Government, the deed being signed by Gen. Jackson, and here resided on the farm. He and his family traveled ria the Erie Canal to Buffalo, N. Y. , thence to Sandusky, Ohio, on lake, and from there to Venice

Township by team, and hero lived for a time in a tent. .Josej)h Lapham was eighty-five and Levina Lapham eighty-eight years old when they died. Oiusubject acquired his education in his native State. When twenty-thi'ee years old he was married to Sarah Chase, a native of Massachusetts, and of English descent. Seven children were born to this union, three now living: John M. , who served as a soldier in the army during the late war of the Rebellion: Adalaide and Henry T. This wife died in 1875, and in 1876 Mr. Lapham man-ied Miss Artie Brown, who lived but three years after. His present wife, Celia, daughter of ilussell True, was a native of New York, of English descent, and the widow of Philo Bugbee. One of ili\ Lapham's sons, Joseph C. , was a member of Company H, One Hundred and First Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was killed at the battle of Resaca, Ga. , May 15, 1S()4. Mr. Lapham is a member of the Universalist Church. In politics he is a Republican. He has filled the offices of assessor, trustee, school director, etc., of this township. He is the owner at present of 1 10 acres of farm land and some town property.

JACOB FREDERICK LEBOLD, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Attica, was born in Germany, April 10, 1820, eldest child of John C. and Christiaana (Eichenhofer) Lebold, natives of Germany, who settled on a farm in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, in 1S30, and there resided until 184'2. thence moving to Section 10, Venice Township, this county, where John C. Li>bold (the father) bought 340 acres of land, on a portion of which he still resides: of their family of ten childi-en six attained maturity. Om- subject has made farming the business of his life, and at present owns a well-improved farm. He was married, in 1855, to Rachel McKibben, daughter of James, Sr. , and Rachel (Me- Cord) McKibben, former of whom, a farmer, died in 1861 in this county, where he had resided since 1834 (they were natives of Pennsylvania, of Irish and Scotch descent). To our subject and wife was born one child - Christianna Maria, now the wife of Frederick L. Smeltz. who is engaged in farming in Venice Township, this county. Mrs. Leliold taught school eleven terms before her marriage. She is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Mi'. Lebold was formerly a Whig in politics, and is now a Republican.

CONRAD LEBOLD, farmer. P. O. Attica, was born in Lawi-ence Township, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, April 2, 1839: son of John C. and Christiana (Auchenhofer) Lebold, natives of Wmiemberg, Germany, and a brother of Jacob F. Lebold. His father, one of the early settlers of this county, still resides in Venice Township. Our subject was reared on the farm, educated in the common schools and has followed agricultural pursuits to the present time. He is the owner of 100 acres of land near Attica, on which he resides. He was married, in 1855,' to Luciuda. daughter of Jacob Hem-y and Margaret (Geiger) Zutavorn. natives of Germany, and among the early settlers of this county. To Mr. and Mrs. Lebold were born the following childi'en: Sherman F.. Henry C, Alvin B. and Clara Bertha. The family are members of the Lutheran Chiu'ch. In politics Mr. Lebold is a Repiiblican.

JOHN LEBOLD, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Attica, was boi'n in Tuscai'awas County, Ohio. January 30, 1842; son of J. C. Lebold, a pioneer farmer, who still resides in Venice Township. Our subject's parents, natives of Germany, moved to Seneca County when he was a child. He was reared on the farm, acquired a common school education, and chose agriculture as his occupation, at which he has been very successful, being at present the owner of 1 20 aci'es of well- improved land. At the commencement of the war, in ISIil, Mr. Lebold promptly enlisted in Company A, Twenty-fifth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was wounded at the battle of Gettysburg, taken prisoner, but released on account of his wound. He participated in several engage- incnts, and after servin<ij for three years was honoraljly discliiirired, returned homo and again took up farming. Mr. Lobold was united in man-iage, in 1809, with Annie, daughter of Jacob Free, by whom he has two children: Earl and Iden. llr. Lebold is a member of the G. A. K. Politically he is a Republican.

AVEllY LEONARD, farmer. Attica, one of the early settlers of ^'enicp Township who still survive, was born in ^^'ashington County. Peiin., July 80, 1798. His parents were luitives of Connecticut. The fathei'. Caleb Leonard, was a descendant from the Piu'itans that landed on Plymouth Rock, and the mother, Sarah (Hale) Leonard, was of English descent. l)eing a daughter of Gideon Hale, who served under Gen. AVolfe. when he fell at the taking of Quebec from the French. His father died at the ripe age of eighty-seven, in Washington County, Peiui., and the mother in her eighty-second year, in Seneca County, Ohio. Oiu' subject received his education in the common schools, and early learned the blacksmith trade. He was maiTied, in 1820, to Nancy, daughter of Samuel Smith, also a native of Washington County, Penu.. being of German and Spanish descent, and who died iu 1 872. in Seneca County, Ohio. To this uniim were born nine children - seven sons and two daughters: Samuel H., Sarahaun, "William F. , Yerdeii W.. Hiram S. , Levi, Avery H. , Jonathan and Sarah Augeline. Yerden W. was killed by a falling tree in his eleventh year; Sarahann, died in her seventeenth year, and Sarah Angeline. at the age of three months. The other sis are still living - two in this county and foui- iu Hiu'on Coimty - all having been engaged in fanning a part of their lives. Three are still active farmers, and three are ministers of the Gospel. Avery Leonard came to Venice Township, this county, with his family, in the year 1So4, and settled in the woods, where his children were educated in the log-schoolhouse. In politics the father and sons are all Rejiublicans. The suliject of this memoir iu religion was raised a Presbyterian, and on Christmas day, 1828, under a deep conviction of sin, he gave his hand to the Methodist Episcopal Chvu'ch as a seeker of the pearl of great price, and in the month of Jime, 1824, being in his twenty-sixth year, after seven months of terrible struggle, he realized that he w-as made a new creature in Christ Jesus. He remained a member of the Methodist Episcopal Chiuch until the Methodist Protestant broke off from the mother church, when he became a member of the Methodist Protestant Church. About a year after locating in this township, he and his comjianion, with live others, united in forming a I\Iethodist Protestant class in the community where they lived, since which time he has changed his church relation to that of the I'nited Brethren, where he now holds his memliership. Mr. Leonard is now in his eighty-eighth year, enjoying a good old age with his son, \V. F. , with whom he makes his home.

SAMUEL H. LEONARD, farmer, near Attica, was born in Deersville, Harrison Co., Ohio. He is a son of Averv' and Nancy (Smith) Leonard. In JS;54 ho immigrated to this county with his father. Mr. Leonard owns the farm settled by his father, and upon it he now resides. Being the eldest of nine children his education was somewhat neglected, his services being required in the duties of the farm - his instruction in the schoolroom l)eing given principally before the age of nine. Farming has been the calling of his life, and he is the owner of r):5(5 acres of land, IfJO acres l)eing in Dakota. October 2f). 1S,')4. records the event of his man-iage with Mary M. Baily, -who was born in London, England, and was the daughter of Benjamin and Ann (Powel) Baily. 'Six. Baily was a member of the "Great East India Tea Company." After the dissolution of the company he came to this country and settled in this township in ISlid whore he spent the greater part of the remainder of his life. The ehilcb-eii of ill', aud ^Lr.-i. Leouard are ia the order of theu- respective ages: Avery F., who is married and resides near PieiTe, Dak.; Benjamin L., married and farming in Crawford County. Ohio; Nancy J., wife of Victor Neikirk, farmer of this township: "Walter Lincoln, killed by the falling of a hayfork July "22, 1N<S2. and Samuel E. ; also Mary Ida. Minnie E. and Delia M., who are with their parents. In polities Mi-. Leonard is a Iiepulslican. In ecclesiastical connectiou Mrs. Leouard is a member of the United Brethren.

"W. F. LEONAPiD, farmer, Attica, was born in Harrison Coimty, Ohio. November 10, 1X25. His parents, Avery and Nancy (Smith) Leonard, were natives of Washington County, Penn. Our subject came to Venice Township, this county, with his parents, when a small boy of nine years, when this country was a dense wilderness, where was heard the howl of the wolf, growl of the bear, and the ' " yowling ' ' of the wild cat, while before them stood the stiu'dy forest tree that woiild yield only to persistent toil. His educatioiud facilities were very limited, and lieiug reared on the farm, he has steadily followed agiicultural pursuits, being at present owner of 101 acres of well-improved land. He has also devoted much attention to the handling of imported horses, and has paid as much as $2,000 for one horse. W. F. Leonard was maiTied, in 184y, to Margaret Jane Moore, daughter of Maiu-ice Moore, a native of Himterdon, N. J., and Hannah (Davis) Moore, of Wales, the fonnor of whom died in 1888, in his eighty-sixth year, and the latter in 1882, in her eighty-third year. Mrs. Leonard's parents came to this county and settled on a farm in this township in 1884; she is a member of the United Brethren Church, and has been for more than forty years. W. F. Leonard, dming the late war of the Rebellion, enlisted, in 1803, in Company C, One Hundred and Sixty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served for 100 days. In politics he is a Republican.

JOHN LEPARD, P. O. Attica, prominent among the representative farmers and pioneers of Venice Township, was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, Februaiy 28, 1828, son of Isaac and Nancy (Huffman) Lepai-d, natives of Virginia, of German descent. His father, a farmer, came to this coimty in 1830, and settled in the woods of Reed Township, traveling hither by means of a four- horse team and an old-fashioned Pennsylvania wagon, in which the family lived until a rough log-cabin was erected; there they cleared a farm and lived for many years. Isaac and Nancy Lepard reared a family of eight ehildi'en. of whom seven are still living. Oiu- subject received his education in Reed Township and grew up on the farm. His father dying when he was quite young, the support of the family largely devolved on him, and being wonderfully attached to his widowed mother aud his sister and brother, he devoted himself to their support until ho was tweut3'-seveh years of age. He then commenced life on his own account, without a dollar, working first on a farm by the day, and as a result of iudustiy, he is now the owner of 160 acres of well-improved land which is well-stocked. He was married, in 1805, to Harriet H. daughter of Samuel Hoil, and a native of New York, of English descent. To this union were born Mary (deceased), Eunice, L-a, Emma, Hattie and Flora. Mrs. Lepard is a member of the Baptist Chm'ch. Mr. Lepard has served as school director of Venice Township for several yeai's. and has been a resident here for fifty five years.

J. W. LINK, farmer and stock-raiser and proprietor of the Link Saw-mill, Attica, a son of Jacob and Maiy Ann (Gering) Link, natives of Germany, was born on the American side of the ocean as his parents were coming across from Germany. They first settled in Columbiana County. Ohio, in 1833, and in 1838 came to this county aud entered 210 acres of land, on which they spent the reinaining portion of their lives, the father dying in 1841. Onr subject, tlx' vonngest of six clnklivn born to this foiij)U>, was reared on the farm and for the j)ast thirty-three years has operated the saw -mill in coiniection with his fiiruiing interests. He is owner of 300 acres of land, 20(1 lieing in Indiana. Ml-. Link was mari'ied.in ISfiO, to Mary Ann, daughter of Ludwick and Kebecca (Middleworth) Fried]ey,the former a native of Pennsylvania, of Dutch origin, the lattej- a native of New Ji'rsey, of English descent. To Mr. and Mrs. Link have been born seven childi'en, six of whom are now living: Benjamin F.. a carpenter; Joseph Jackson, a school teacher; C. M., who also holds a teachei's certilicate; Sarah Emily, BiU'bara Ellen and Amanda R(>becca, are attending district schot)l from home. Julia is deceased. Mrs. Link is a member of the (ierman Reformed Church. 'Mr. Link has been trustee of Venice Township for four years. Politically h<' is a Democrat.

REV. \V. E. LYON, A. JL, Attica, was born in Napoli, Cattaraugus County. N. Y.. April '1. 1S2T. and, being the son of a Baptist minister, his early days were spent on a farm, attending the common schools and teaching in the same. In 185.") he graduated fi'om the collegiate dei>artment of Madison Univer.sity at Hamilton. N. Y. In June. 18r)(), he manned Miss Sabrina A. Chamberlain, of Grafton. Ohio, and in the following December he was ordained jiastor of the Baptist Chiu-ch in Seville. ]\ledina Co.. Ohio. Since his ordinati<jn he has b(>en constantly employed in the work of the ministry with e.xcejition of three short intervals between pastorates, having to this date lost only two Saliliaths on account of his own health. His jjastorates liave been in Nortlna-n Ohio with the excejjtion of one at Gallipolis. C)hio, and one at Saginaw. Mich. H(^ has baptized, into the fellowship of the several churches he has served, '231 i)ersons, of whom foui' are now actively employed as Baptist ministei-s, one is studying with a view to the ministry, and one is president of a college. Mr. and Mrs. Lyon are the iiarents of four daughters: Mary E., Amie L. . E. Jennie and (irace G. Two of the number are mairied: one is teaching; the young(>st is a student in Granville College. Rev. \V. E. Lyon's present pastorate commenc(>d November!, 1881.

GEORGE S. McKEE, merchant and postmaster at Carrothers, was born in Crawford County, Ohio, July 2, 1841; son of James and Eliza (Moore) McKee, natives of Pennsylvania and of Scotch-Irish descent. James McKee was a tanner in early life, but later has been a farmer, and has resided for over half a ceutiuy on a farm in Crawford County, Ohio. Oiu- subject, the eldest of live children, was educated in his native county. During the late war of the Rebellion he enlisted in 18G2, at the age of twenty-one, in Com])any E, One Hundred and First Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving as a non-commissiimod oflic^er, and was honorably ilischarged in June, bSOH. He i)aiiicipated in several severely fought liattles, and to use his own VNords "was a very lucky boy." being slightly wounded three times, but never disabled. His regiment missed but one liattle (Mission Ridge) in which the Anuy of the Cumberland took ))art, and by refening to the histoiy of this regiment it will be seen that oiu' subject was in many of the most sanguinary struggles of the The regiment never retreated but once - at Chickamauga. On returning home Ml'. McKee engaged in farming, and teaching school in the winters. nntU 18S1, when he sold his farm, jmrcbased property at Carrothers and embarked in his present business. He was mamed, in 1872, to Levina, daughter of Michael (a farmer) and Sarah (Helm) Nigh, of German descent. To this union six children were born : Lnella, Bertha (deceased), Eva (deceased). Uichard (deceased). Sadie and an infant. Mrs. McKee is a member of the Methodist Church. In jwlitics Mi\ McKee is a Republican. He took an

WILLIAM McPHERSON. retired merchant and farmer, Attica, was born in Scotland, February '), 1793. His father, Donald McPherson, was a merchant in Scotland, and there sjaent his life. William, however, was ambitioas to see the world, and when eighteen years old left his native land and settled near Halifax, N. S. . where he followed the occupation of a peddler. l)ut. being twice robbed of his money and goods, concluded to leave that place, which he did in IS IT), coming to Baltimore. Md., where he settled. There he lived witli a merchant, and liy industry and economy managed to get a start in the world. He was united in marriage with Ann Scarf, of English descent, and they reared a family of four sons and two daughters. This wife dying in IS-W. om- .subject married, in 1S45. Almeda Thatcher, who is still living. Mr. McPherson came to Seneca County, Ohio, in 182S, bought St>0 acres of land, conducted a store at Caroline several years, and was veiy successful in business. Though he retu'ed from mercantile life in ]Sr)'2, he has since been loaning money and attending to his own affairs.

O. J. McPHEESON, justice of the peace. P. O. Attica, was born in Craw ford County, Ohio, in 184(1, and is a son of William and Ann (Scarf) McPherson. He was reared on the farm, receiving his education in the common schools and at Republic Academy. He leai-ned the trade of tanner and cui-- rier, which he followed for a time, but has been principally engaged in farming. He was maiTied, in 18(12, to Margaret J., daughter of Peter Swartz. born in Ohio, and of English descent. To this union were l>orn the following childi-en: Anna, Allie, Eva, William. Ida, Cora, Nina and Adda. Mi-, and Mrs. McPherson are members of the Methodist Protestant Church. Oiu' subject's father was one of the first movers in organizing a church of this denomination in Attica, and has always taken a deep interest in all that jiertahis to the same. He (the father) has been a Whig and Republican all his life, but O. J. only voted with his father when he felt tlie right man was on the ticket. He has served as justice of the peace of Venice Township for seven years.

A. J. MEYERS, farmer. P. O. Attica, was born in Venice Township, this County, July 8, 1845, son of Henry and Rebecca (Free) Meyers, who wenparents of seven childi'en, A. J. being the third born. His father, a pioneer of this county, was a successful farmer, and was owner of over 2,(100 acres of land at his death, which occuned in 1884. Our subject was reared on the farm, educated in his native county, and wisely chose the ocenpation of his father as his own. He now possesses the fami on which he resides, comjirising 2S0 acres, and 250 acres in Nebraska. He was maiTied, November 2, 1880, to Mary R., daughter of Henry H. and Parthena (Cole) Bathrick, th.' former of Scotch and English descent, the latter of English lineage. Our subject's father. Henry Meyers, "tailor," as he was familiarly known to all, was born in the village of Oberendengen. Switzerland, April 2(), 1808. He was reared in the faith of the German Reformed Chtu'ch, and took his first communion when he was seventeen years old. At the age of twenty-one he left his native land and came to America, in company with his elder brother, Jacob, who b(jre the expense of his passage to I'hiladelphia, whi-re he r(>sided six years. His brother, soon after ari'iving in Philadelphia, became sick and was advised by his ])hysiciaus to retxu'n to his former home, as the only means of recovery. Hemy, poor and penniless, begged in the streets, with uncovered head, of the jDeople of that city, the required amount to pay his brother" s passage back to Switzerland, promising to each one who contributed that he would return the sum again as soon as he could earn the monev. which he did to each one with the excoptioii of ono person, who refused to iiccept of it. A\hile liviuji; in Philadelphia he worked at tailoring for a livelihood, receiving as remuneration for his services the suiu of $!.")() per week and his hoard. After working six years for one man at the trade in Philadelphia, he left there on the lOth of July, 18^5*"). and came l>y canal to Sandusky. Ohio, arriving on the 2'Jth of the sjune month, walked to Attica, on the old turnpike, when' he had previously purchased wild land. Six years after his arrival in Seneca County he worked at his trade in Tiffin, after which he worked live years in the village of Attica, using the money thus earned for imju-ovements on his land. He came to this country a poor Dutch lad. without a cent in his pocket, a strang(>r in a strange land, without a single friend to greet his coming. He set to work with perseverence and a true pioneer spirit to amass a competency. Out of his small earnings in Philadelphia he saved a suiScient sum to purchase KiO acres of land, lying near Attica, where he ever aftei' resided until the time of his death in 1884. His acres numbered 2.1(1(1, of which 1.28(t acres were in Nebraska, the rest in Ohio, all but 160 acres in this township. In ISH") he brought the first $r> in gold seen in Tiffin. Five years after he came to Seneca County. July n, 1840, he was married to Miss Rebecca Free, sister of the late John Free. By ])atient. honest industry and frugality he breasted the waves of life, and succeeded in accumulating a fortime. Providence seemed to smile on his every effort, and l)y honest toil his acres broadened until they became a noble heritage, and he took rank among the solid men of Seueca County. He was a strong-minded man, of correct habits, and an inveterate leader. A man of retentive memory, his mind was a store-house of useful knowledge: a lover of history, he made himself familiar with the (»vents not only of his own, but those of other nations. In politics he Avas i)roud to bear the title of a Democrat, with the signiticance of its earlier and original simplicity, and was a believer in the gi'eat universal faith of the positive laws that govern the universe. To Mr. and Mrs. Henry Jleyers were born seven children: Mary J., deceased wife of A. B. Brant, a grain merchant: Georgi- AV.. a farmer, who died April 17, 18(j0; A. J., our subject: Sarah E.. wife of James E. Carpenter: T. J., a farmer in this township: \V. T. . a farmer of Hancock County, Ohio: M. Ellen, wife of A. .1. Coofmaii. a physician of Tiffin. Ohio.

M. H. MILLS, physician. Attica, was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, in February, 1S4(). the eldest of the four children born to Simeon H. (a miller by trade) and Amanda (Muzzy) Mills, natives of New York and of English descent. Our subject acquired his literary education in the schools of Cleveland, Ohio, then attended the Homteopathic College of Cleveland, graduating in 1872. He was married, in 187.>. to Sylva Bradford, a desc(>ndant of A\'illiam Bradford, the tirst governor of Plymouth Colony and governor of Massachusetts. and to this union were born two children: Clara and Ethel. Tin- Doctor commenced to practice his chosen profession at Salem. Ohio, and in IS77 he came <o Attica, this county, where he has been in active practice since, having won for himself many warm friends. He is a member of the State Medical Society. In jiolitics he is a Republican.

MAURICE MOORE (deceas(>d|, one of the early settlers of Venice Township, and a fanner by occupation, was born in Hunterdon County, N. J., July 15, 17W7. His parents were natives of Switzerland, and lived and died in Hunterdon County. N. J. The subject of this memoir was educated in the coumion schools, and was brought up a farmer. He was married, in IS HI. in Hunterdcm County. N. J., to Hannah Davis, a native of Wales, and to them were born thirte(>n chilib'en six girls and seven boys one of whom died in childhood: tonr enlisted and served in the late war for the T'nion: two of them served 100

(lays each, one thi'ee years, and one gave his life for his country. Maurice Moore settled in Venice Township, this county, with his family, in 183-1, when the country was a wild forest, with only the advantages of a new country to educate their children in. At the organization of the Methodist Protestant Chiu'ch in 1835, Mrs. Moore became one of the original seven members, joined by her husband in a few years. They remained members of the same class and society until death took them fi'om labor to reward.

DAVID B. MOORE, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Venice Township, this county, December 4, 1838, son of Maurice and Hannah (Davis) Moore, the former a native of New Jersey, of German descent, the latter a native of Wales. His father, Maiu'ice Moore, a farmer by occupation, came to Seneca County, Ohio, and settled in Venice Township in 1834. Oiu- subject's parents died in 1883. They were members of the Methodist Church, of which the father had been class leader; they reared a family of thirteen children, twelve, attaining matiu'ity, of whom our subject is the tenth. Maurice Moore owned a farm of IGO acres of valuable land. which he sold in IS'JS. He purchased, in 18(>6, twenty acres of land adjoining the town of Attica (two acres and house being inside the corporation), moving there £hat same year, and this property he owned till his death. Our subject was reared on the farm, attending the district school, and engaged in farming until he was twenty-three years old, when he enlisted in Company C, One Hundred and Twenty-third Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in which company he was a non-commissioned officer. He participated in most of the battles in which his regiment engaged and with it was captured in 1803. He was a jn'isoner at Belle Isle one month, then was exchanged and served until the close of the war in 186."). Since his return home he has followed agricultural pursuits and now owns 114 aci'es of wellimproved land. Mr. Moore was married, in ]80(), to Eliza Ann, daiighter of Philip and Hannah (Croninger) Upp, natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio, respectively, and of German descent. To this union were born the following children : Florence, Willard V. , Bertha lone, Frank B. , Hannah M. . Mabel B. , Bernice Belle and Edna Grace. Mr. Moore is much interested in educational matters, and has served his township as school director for several terms. He was a member of the townsliip l)oard for several years. He is a member of the G. A. R. In politics is a Republican.

HENRY F. MYERS, farmer. P. O. Attica, was born in Switzerland, April 10, 1 822, son of Jacob and Fanny ( Werder) Myers, also natives of Switzerland, who immigrated to Ohio in 1821). and came to this county in 1831; they wei-e parents of eight children, of whom Henry F. is second. Oiu' subject's father, a wealthy, influential farmer, helped build the first log seboolhouse in Venice Township, and there Hemy F. received his education. The subject of this sketch was married, in 1848. to Mary Meyers (no relative however): her father's name was Jacob Mej'ers; he was a native of Switzerland. Om- sul)ject and wife have two children now living; Frank C. and Alice, wife of Hiram Barnes. Mr. and Mi-s. Myers are members of the Fniversalist Church. In politics he is a Republicsm; has been school director and trustee of the township.

FRANK C. MYERS, a member of the firm of Myers c^ Keller, dry goods, notions and clothing, Attica, was born in Seneca County, Ohio, Jamuiry 28, 1860, son of Hemy F. Myers, an early settler of Venice Township, this county, and prominent farmer and successful business man. Oiu- subject, the third in a family of five childi-en, three of whom are deceased, received his education in this county, and lived on the fai'm with his parents until eighteen years of age. when he engaged as clerk in a dry goods store for four years at Attica. He then embarked in his present business. He and his partner speak the Gennan and English lauguagos. Mr. Myers was mamecl, in 1881, to Ida M. Carson, a native of this county, and daughter of J. AV. Carson, of English de.scent. Mr. and Mrs. Myers are members of the Universalist Chiu'oh at Attica. Politically he is a Kepuliliean.

JOHN PHILLIPS, fanner and stock-raiser, P. O. St. Stephen, was born in Germany. March 14, l.S2(); son of Michael and Eaf K. (Sheliide) Phillips, who came from Germany to America, and settled on a farm in Huron County, Ohio, in 1887, and reared a family of eight chikbvn. of whom John is the second. Oui- subject's eilucation was mostl}' obtained in German}', though he attended school for a few months after coming here to learn the Encrlish language. He remained with his parents on the farm until he attained his majority, when his father liought him tifty acres of wild land in Hiu'on Coiuit}'. Mr. Phillips, having made farming the vocation of his life, has met with marked success, and is now owner of 4(K) acres of well-improved land. He was united in marriage, in IS.")!*, with Catherine (Jross, whose jiarents were also natives of Germany, and they have live sous and live daughters: John, Lewis, Joseph. ^lartin, Mary. Jacob. Fanny, Anna. Ella and Matilda. They ai-e all members of the church. In politics i[r. Phillips is a Democrat.

MARTIN PHILLIPS, m(>rchant. Carrothers. was born in Hiu'ou Coimty, Ohio, November 6, 1857; son of John and Catherine (Gross) Phillips, natives of Germany. His father, a fanner, came to America when a young man, and was married in Huron County, Ohio: his family consist(>d of five sons and five daughters. Our subject, the iMghth born, receivcnl his (>ducation in the common schools of this county, and followed his fjither's occupation (fanning) until 187V), when he came to Can'others and embarked in the agricultui'al implement business, in which he has since continued. He bought a general store in 1884. ;ind since then has conducted both businesses. Mr. Phillijts married, in 1883, Bertha, daughter of Joseph Meier, and of German descent. Mi-, and Mrs. Phillips are members of the Roman Catholic Chxurh. I'olitically he is a Democrat.

S. B. RESH. farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Attica, was born in Franklin County. Penn., July 29. 1840; son of Abraham and Julia .\nn (Brumbaugh) Resh, of English descent, natives of Franklin Coiuity. Penn.. and Washington County, Md., respectively. His father, a fanner by occujiation, and for many yeai-s a local minister of the "Chm-ch of God," came to this county in 1847, and settled on the farm where S. B. now resides: his family consisted of three children: John, who died in Pennsylvania in his fourteenth year; J. H. , who is maixied and farming in Heni'y County, Ohio (by profession he is a teacher, and he taught school twenty-two terms, five terms in the schools of this county), and S. B. Our subject acqiiired his education in the schools of Venice Townshiji. He was married in this county. May 24, 1870, to Catherine A., daughter of Jacob (a farmer) and Mary (Sell) Lebold. natives of Germany. This union has been blessed with one child Minnie MiiTtle. IL's. Resh is a member of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Resh has devoted his entire time to farming and stock-raising, now owning a fine farm of ir)4 acres, and he is a model farmer. Politically he is a Republican.

JOHN ROGERS, P. O. Attica, a pioneer farmer of Seneca County, was l>orn in England, in March, 1819, son of Stephen and Jane (Rogers) Rogers, also natives of England. His father, a blacksmith by trade, came to America in 1818. and settled eighteen miles south of Baltimore. Md., but in 1887 came to Seneca County, Ohio. Our subject, the youngest of a family of nine chil ilren, was reared on the farm. There were but few schools in those days in this county, and his educational privileges were limited to one month's attendso ance at the night school. He early became attached to hunting pursuits, and frequently staid out all day and night rather than give up the chase. For many years he killed fi'om twenty to thirty deer each winter, and other game in proportion. He was married, in 1845. in Venice Township, to Almu-a Snyder, a native Ohioan and daughter of Jacob and Mary (Prouse) Snyder, who were of Dntch descent. To Mi', and Mrs. Rogers were born following children: William; Mary M., wife of Edward R. Hillis; Anne, wife of Silas R. Hull; Levina, wife of Hu-am McGloffin; Mai-y J. , wife of Lafayette Hastier; Daniel, married and residing at home; Amos C, at home, and Isabella; Mrs. Rogers is a member of the United Brethi-en Church. Mr. Rogers has been a very successful farmer, owning at one time 220 acres, and he still owns 140 acres, on which he now resides. He has been a great wood-chopper in his time, and thinks he has cleared, with his own hands, 100 acres of heavily timbered land in Venice Township. He has served as school director. Politically he is a Republican.

LEONARD SACHS, merchant. P. O. Attica, was born in Germany, December 25, 1838, son of John and Margaret (Smith) Sachs, also Germans. His father, a tailor and a farmer by occupation, spent his life in his native land. Our subject, the eldest in a family of five children, received his education in Germany. After the death of John Sachs (our subject's father) his widow came to America, bringing her family with her, and located in Newark, N. J., where oirr subject went to school for a few months and studied the English language. He then commenced to work on the Lehigh & Morrow Canal. In 1852 the family moved to Crawford County, Ohio, and from 1852 to 1859 our subject helped to make brick, and made potash, and also worked on the farm. In 1859 he came to Caroline, this county, with A. Whitaker, a di'over and merchant, and here was employed by him. In 1862 he embarked in his present business, keeping a general stock of dry goods, groceries, etc., etc., and has met with success. ]\ir. Sachs was married, in 1863, to Caroline, daughter of J. C. Lebold. by whom he has thi-ee children: Franklin Otto, Menzo Emerson and Emma Lusseta. Mr. and Mrs. Sachs are members of the Lutheran Church, in which he has been trustee and treasurer. Politically he is a Democrat.

SEBASTIAN SENN. Attica, a prominent pioneer of this county and a representative farmer and stock-raiser, is a native of Switzerland, born January 20, 1828. His father emigrated from Switzerland to America in 1838, and settled on a farm in Seneca County, Ohio. Our subject, the youngest of seven childi'en, resided with his parents on the farm until fifteen years of age. He then learned the miller' s trade, an occupation he followed in connection with farming in Pulaski and CaiToll Counties, Ind. , fi'om 1849 to 1863, since which time he has devoted himself to his present business, meeting with marked success. His farm, on which he resides, consists of 165 acres of land, well improved and stocked. Mr. Senn was maiTied, in Ohio, in 1852, to Miss Louise, daughter of Jacob and Maria (Sickle) Meyers, the fonner a native of Switzerland, the latter of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. To Mr. and Mrs. Senn were born, in Indiana, four children. aU living at home: Frank, Lizzie, John and Maria. Mr. Senn is a prominent member of the Catholic Church in Attica, and was a member of the buOding committee when it was erected, and has always given liberally to its support. Politically he is a Democrat.

JACOB SHERMAN, a native of Germany, was bom January 26, 1819, and is the youngest of the nine children born to William and Elizabeth (Shaffer) Sherman. He received his education in the common schools, and learned the trade of weaver iu his native land. He came to America in 1847. and same year settled in Attica, this county. He was manied in America to Catherine Hachtle, also a native of Germany, and by this union were born four children. Mr. and 3\Irs. Sherman are members of the Lutheran Church, of which he has lieen trustee and Sabbath -school superintendent.

GEOR{4E SHERMAN, harness-maker. Attica, was born in Attica, this county. May 4. LSG'J; son of Jacob and C;itherine (Hachtle) Sherman, of Attica. Our subject is the third born in a family of four children. He was educated in the schools of his native town, and learned harness-making. In IS.SS he embarked iu b\isiuess on his own account, and is meeting with success. He is a Republican in pcilitics.

J. M. SILCOX, merchant. Attica, was born in Reed Township, this county, January o, 1884; son of Alonzo and Mary (King) Silcox. natives of New York State and of English descent: former of whom w'ho was a farmer, only lived to be thirty-five years old. OiU' subject, the second iu a family of three childi'eu, attended common school six years, and this constituted all his schooling. He worked on the farm till twelve years old and then was a clerk for William Rininger ten years. He afterward moved to Hiu'on County, and had a half interest in a store with his (>mploy(>r with whom he continued two and one half years, then sold out and i>nibarked in the dry goods business at AVest Lodi, Ohio, where he continued for four years. In 1804 he sold this business and came to Venice Township and bought a fai'm which ho worked nearly two years; then sold it and jjurchased the store of AVilliam Rininger. which ho carried on alone for one year, when his former partner and old employer liought a half interest. Mr. Silcox is riinuing the store and has full chargi' of th(> Inisinoss. He is a lirst-class business man, enjoying the fiillest confidence of his partner, and having many warm friends and very few. if any. {>nemies. Mr. Silcox was maiTied. in 18r)9, to Zilla. daiighter of Seth Read, a fanuer. and of English descent, and to this union have l)een born the following children: Belle, wife of O. A. Smith; Ella, now iittending college, and Frank B. , at school. Mx. and ili's. Silcox are members of the Universalist Church, of which he is treasurer. In politics he is a Republican. He sei-A-ed as a member of tho town council several times, has b(>en a member of the school board for foiu-- toen years and president of that board for six years.

MARTIN SMELTZ is a son of Peter Smeltz who came fi'om Germany and settled in Pennsylvania when our subject was only seven yeai's old. Peter Smeltz afterward moved to Cai-roU County. Ohio, and settled on a farm where Martin grew to manhood. He, Martin Smeltz. was among the early settlers of this county where he followed the occu]iation of farming. He was married to Christiana Lebold and reared a family of eight childi-en.

MARTIN SMITH, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. New Washington, Crawford County, was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio. July 22. 1884; son of John and Mary (A\'eaver) Smith, natives of Washington County, Penn. , and of Dutch descent. His father, who was a farmer by occupation. <'ame to Seneca Comity, Ohio, in 1838, and settled in Venice Township, where ho sp«>nt the remainder of his life, dying in 1882. Our subject, the fifth in a family of seven children, acquired his education in the log schoolhouse. He remained with his parents on the farm until the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, when he enlisted in Company C. Sixty-fifth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was in the forty-two battles in which his regiment ]^articipated. and at ono time was under fire for ninety days. He was wounded at the battle of Stone River, and after a service of three years, one month and thirteen days was honorably discharged. The first year after returning home ho worked at the carpenter's trade, since when he has been farmiiij:^. He now owns a fine farm, comprising ninety-three acres of land. !Mr. Smith was married, in 1808, to Fannie, daughter of James and Rel)ecca (Overholser) Kobinson, the former born in Washington County. Penn. , July 8, 180S, the hitter in Westmoreland County, Penn., January 7, 181."). They came to Huron County, Ohio, in 1838, and reared a family of five children. Mi-s. Smith is a member of the United Brethren Church. Politically our subject is a Republican.

SA]\rUEL SPEAKER, farmer and carpenter, P. O. Attica, was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, July 30, 1830; son of Samuel and Hannah (Harper) Speaker, the foi'mer born in Pennsylvania of German parents, the latter a native of Virginia of Welsh descent. They reared a family of twelve children. Our subject's father, who was a miller, came to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1840, and for a time worked at his trade, but eventually pursued farming; he was among the first settlers in Venice Township, and died in 180iS; he was a Democrat in politics, and sei-ved as justice of the peace of Venice Township. Our subject, the fifth Ijorn in the family, was reared on the farm and learned the carpenter's trade, which he has followed, together with farming, all through life. He was married, in 1851, to Caroline, daughter of John Bait, and of Gorman descent, and to this union were born the following childi'en: Martha Ellen, wife of Alvin Chen)*; Harriet F. , wife of Simeon Stout, and Jefferson, a resident of Caroline. Ohio. Mr. Speaker is a Democrat in politics, and has served as trustee of Venice Township.

I. A. SPENCER, farmer, P. O. Attica, was born in Washington Township, Richland Co., Ohio, November 21, 1828, sou of Huckkins and Nancy (Bingham) Spencer, latter a native of Ireland. Huckkins Spencer, a farmer, of English descent, born in Maine, fettled on a farm in this county in 1834. Our subject, the eldest of a family of ten childi'en. was reared on the farm, receiv ing a limited education in the common schools of Venice Township, and has followed agi'icultural piu'suits through life. At the death of his father, who was accidentally shot, in 18")!, he was apjwinted administrator of the estate, and has since taken care of the family. Mr. Spencer has been very successful and now owns a farm comprising 1 1 1 acres of land. He was man'ied first, in 1852, to Catherine Mechener, by whom he had the following children: Mary J., widow of Dr. J. C. Myers; Emma E., wife of Scott N. Bruner, of Chicago! 111. : Anna and Sherman. Mrs. Spencer died in 1804. She was a member of the Free- Will Baptist Church. The year of his wife's demise Mi\ S])encer enlisted in the United States Regulars and served ItK) days as Fourth Duty Sergeant, Comjiany C!. Novemljer 25, 1805. he was married to his present wife, Emeline. daughter of Daniel Dunahay, and to this union were born Ella and Jennie. Mrs. Spencer is a member of the Free-Will Baptist Church. Ml'. Sj)encer is a Republican in politics. He has ])assed all the chairs of the I. O. O. F.

JOHN W. STEIGMEYER. farmer. P. O. Attica, is a son of Frederick Steigmeyer, who was born in Switzerland, and there received his schooling. Frederick Steigmeyer' s parents were Dominicus and Barbara (Meyer) Steig- Tueyer, also natives of Switzerland. Fred. Steigmeyer came to America in 1831 and settled in Pennsylvania, where his father worked at the carpenter's trade for six years. He came to Seneca County. Ohio, in 183(), and in 1837 returned to Switzerland and there married Elizabeth Senii, returning to Seneca County the same year. To this union were born the following chiklren: John \\'., Fred H. (a resident of Attica) and Elizabeth (wife of John Buchman, a prominent farmer living near Tiffin. Ohio). John W. Steigmeyer, the subject of this sketch, was born in Vonice Township, this county, January 4, 1838, and was roared on thu farm. ae((niriug his education in the schools of his native county. He has proved himself to be a successfid farmer, and now owns a fine place consisting of HiO acres of land. He was married, in 18f')8. to Mary E., daughter of Henry Seiger, a farmer, and of German descent. They have three children: Flora A., Heijry F. and Cecilia. Mi\ Steigmeyer has served his township as tnistee. In politics he is a Democrat.

M. C. STIUNMETZ. farmer and stock-rais(>r. P. O. St. Stephen, was l)orn in France Sej)teml>er 2'J, 182'.l, son of Martin and Elizabeth (Baltz) Steimuetz, also French people, who immigrated to America in 18:^1 (being si.x months making the journey), and settled on a farm in Stark County. Ohio, Init moving in 18;{7 on a farm in Venice Township, this county; tin? former, who was a shingle-maker in France, after coming to America followed fai'ming. Our subject's parents raised a family of nine children, of whom M. C. is the sixth born. Our subject was reared and accjuired his education in this county, and worked on the farm until nineteen years old. He then learned the carpenter and millwTight trades, which he followed ( most of the time in this county), and with more than average success, for eighteen years. Since then he has devoted his entire attenticju to ffirming. He has met with mark(>d success, and is the owner of two well-improved farms, one comprising seviuity-eight and three-quarters acres, and the other (where he resides) \'M') acres. A\ hen he started out for himself Mr. Steinmetz worked for §8 a month, and what he has accumulated has l)een obtained mostly by his own exertions. Our subject has been twice married; tii'st, in 1852, to Maiy E. , daughter of Philip Falter, a native of Germany, and who died in 1881. The childi-eu born to this union are John C, Philip, Mary, Christena, Celia, Clement, Louise, Anthony, Lawrence and Maria. The first five mentit)ned are married, and are useful citizens. Mr. Steimnetz was married, on second occasion. -Jaunary 1. 1885, to Magdalena, daughter of Hem-y and Freniga (Wagner) Wattz. natives of Germany. Ml', and Mrs. Steinmetz and family are memliers of the Catholic Church, of which he has been a trustee for thirty-foiu- y(>ars, and he has also been a member of the church council. In politics he is a Democrat. He has served as trustee of Venice Township for six years, and as assessor for two years.

CAPT. WILLLAM STEPHENSON, grandfather oi Prof. William tt Stephenson, a tc^acher and carpenter, was born in ^\'ashington County, Penn.. in 1784; was raised on a farm, and received his education in the common schools and subscription schools of M'ashington County. He was a very sue cessful teacher, having taught three years in his own house; left the school tn raise a company in Belmont County. Ohio, to go to the war of 1812, serving all through it. marching with his num across the State from St. Clairsville to Lake Erie; took active part through all the campaign at Detroit and Fort Stephenson (Croghan),and came back home very much broken in health. Capt. Stephenson moved, in 1821, with his family to Crawford County, Ohio, where he took an active part in opening up the new country; jiurchased land of the Government, and cleared up a very fine farm three miles we.st of Bucyrus, where ho died about the year ISiJO. Capt. Stephenson took an active part in chiirch and educational matters, and everything for the good of society. He departed this life verv highly esteemed bv his manv friends and acciuaintances.

PROF. WILLIAM H. STEPHENSON, farmer and teacher. Attica, was born in Venice Township, this county, July \-i. 1842, son of John A. and Sarah (Stephenson) Stephenson, natives of Pennsylvania and of Irish descent, and who were parents of foiu- children. His father came to this county, am] settled ill Venice Townshij) in 1831, obtaining land from the Government. Our subject was raised on the farm, receiving his education in his native towTiship and at the high school of Bucjtus, Ohio. He has taught twenty-eight tenns in this county, mostly in the schools of Venice Township. He favors and is a constant attendant of the teachers' institutes, and he himself writes for educational joiirnals. He was maiTied, in 18<)f), to Maria, datighter of Francis Montgomery, and of Irish descent, and their chiklren are Homer (attending the Attica High School), Frank O. , William M. and Cora. Prof. Stephenson and wife are members of the INIethodist Protestant Church, and he has been Sabbath-school superintendent for many years. Politically he is a Repubhcan. Dining the late civil war he enlisted, in 1804, as a member of Company F, Sixty- second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, participating in several engagements and served till the close of the war. He was taken prisoner the day Lee surrendered, and was discharged as a prisoner of war. He is chaplain of Post 112 of the G. A. R. He took an active interest in the Grange movement, and served two years as secretary in that organization. He served two years as secretary and one term as Worthy Chief of the Good Templars, and is a I'. & A. M. His farm comprises sixty-six acres of well-improved land, located a mile and a half soiith of Attica on the Sandusky pike.

LESTER SUTTON, attorney and banker, Attica, was born in Steuben County, N. Y. , July 13, 1830, son of John and Chi-istina (True) Siitton; the former, a native of Pennsylvania, was of Dutch descent, the latter, born in New York, was of English lineage. John Sutton, a farmer, was twice married, our subject being the eldest child by the second wife. Lester Sutton was reared on the farm, remaining with his parents until he was seventeen years old, when he commenced teaching school, an occupation he followed until he was abuost twenty-three years of age. He then began the study of law at TilJin. Ohio, in the office of Col. Leander Stem, and was admitted to the bar in 1867. He opened an office at Attica in 1805, and has been in active practice here ever since. In 1880 Mr. Sutton started in the banking business, and has since divided his time between the bank and his profession. He was united in marriage, in 1859, to Emaline Rundell, and to this union were born fom- childi-en: Leonard L., attending college; Laiu-a, Charles and Luella. Mi-s. Sutton is a member of the Baptist Church. In politics Mr. Sutton is a Republican.

ISAAC TANNER, farmer and stock-raiser, Attica, was born in Newport Townshi]). Herkimer County, N. Y., August 24. 1811, son of John, a farmer, and Nancy ( Nortrip) Tanner, natives of Rhode Island and of English descent, and of whose nine children. Isaac is the fifth. The parents and gi'and])arents of Isaac Tanner, our subject, moved into New York State, when a wilderness, with only here and there a settlement, wild animals being in abundance. The schooling of our subject was obtained in his native State. He came from New York to Ohio in 1854, and settled in Venice Township, this county, when Attica was not worthy of being called even a village, where he has followed farming, an occupation in which he has been successful, and is now the owner of a farm. Mr. Tanner was married, in 1S33. to Hannah, daughter of Isaac and Tabitha (Bontly) Tanner and granddaugliter of Isaac Tanner, Sr. She was born June 27, 1813, in Schuyler Township, Herkimer Co., N. Y. This union has been blessed with six children, of whom only two are now living: Augustus U. B. and Eugene B. , both farmers in Venice Township, this county, and both married; the former of whom served as a soldier all through the Hte war of the Rebellion (he has two children: Avis Agnes and Harlcy Martin). The pari>nts and grandparents of I\Ir. and Mi-s. Tanner were

HENRY V. TRUMPLER, a<,n'nt for the IVuusylvauia Raihoad Company, CaiTothers, was born in Yeaice Township, this county. February 17. IS58, son of Peter and Christine (Deisler) Trumpl<>r, natives of Bavaria. Gennany, and who reared a family of seven children, live now living, of whom Henry V. is the youngest. Peter Trumjiler, father of our subject, a shoe-maker by trade, was among the early settlers of Venice Township, and here followed farming as an occupation. He was a to ember of the German Church, and died in INTO. Our subject received his education in the common schools, chose farming as an occupation and followed agricidtm-al pursuits until 1^<S4, when he sold his farm of Ht'.t acres adjoining the village of Carrothers and entered his j)resent occupation. He was united in marriage, in ISSI, with Rebecca, daughter of George and Elizab(>th (Revert) Meiser, and a native of Pennsylvania, of Dutch descent. jMi'. and Mrs. Trnmpler are members of the English Reformed Church, in which he is deacon. In politics he is a Rejniblican.

J. W. WALKER, furniture dealer and undertaker, Attica, was born in Cadiz, Han'ison Co., Ohio, Februaiy 27, 1849, son of John and Fanny (Hoffman) Walker, the former a native of Virginia of Irish descent, the latter of New Jersey and of Welsh lineage. His father, who was a plasterer and stonemason, came to Attica, Ohio, in 1852. He is now residing on a farm in Huron County, Ohio. Om- subject is the third of eight children born to his parents, and is the oldest of the four that lived to grow up. His education was obtained in the common school. Baldwin University, Berea, Ohio, and at the Northwestern Normal College at Republic, Ohio. He learned the trade of a stone-mason and plasterer, which he followed for twelve years during the summer months, teaching school in the winters, commencing at the age of nineteen years. He was man-ied, April 12, 1874, in Hiu'on County, Ohio, to Miss Jennie Fast, who was born in Ashland County, Ohio, and of Dutch origin. To this union were born Winfi'ed J., Royall B. (who died in infancy) and Rollo E. Hoon after his man-iage ]\Ir. A\'alker purchased a small farm in Richmond Township. Huron Co. , Ohio, where he resided until the spring of 1880, when he sold the farm and bought property in Attica, this county. In 1881 he entered into partnership in the fiu'uiture and undertaking business, which he still follows, having since j)iu'chased the entire stock. Mr. and Mrs. Walker are members of the Free-Will Baptist Chvu'ch. Mr. Walker iisually votes the Democratic Ticket. He is a member of Venice Lodge No. 197, I. O. O. F.

E. WEAVER, Attica, one of the most extensive farmers and stock-raisers of this county, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, in 1850, son of Samuel Weaver, a native of CaiToll County, Md.. born in 1822, a farmer by occupation, and who came among the early settlers to this county. Samuel Weaver was united in man'iage with Sarah Bixler, who was born in 1824, and to this union were born eight children, of whom six are living. They were of German descent. The father died in 186:5, and the mother died in 1806. Samuel Weaver owned 820 acres of land, and since his death the sons have paid all out-standing debts, bought more land, and at present the farm comprises 420 acres of well-improved land, which is well stocked. E. AVeaver, our subject, received his education in Freeport, 111. In politics he is a Democrat.

MARTIN S. WEAVER, fanner, P. O. Attica, was born in Washington County. Peun. . .\pril 17, 1811, son of John, a farmer, and Catherine (Spoon) Weaver, natives of Peimsylvania and of German descent. Our subject, the eighth in a family of twelve children, was reared on the farm, receiving a com- mon school education, and has followed agricultural pursuits through life. He now owns a farm of 117 acres of land in Venice Township, where he has lived since 1833. He was man-ied, in 1831, to Narcissus, daughter of Valentine Cooper, a farmer, and of English descent. She died in 1800 and subsequently Mr. Weaver married jVIts. Abigail (Bennington) Thompson, widow of Adam Thompson. IVIr. "Weaver is the father of eleven childi'en, nine of whom grew to manhood and womanhood, viz. : Washington, Joseph, John V. . Mary, Elizabeth, Clarcy C and Sarah. by his tii-st wife, and Julianu, Jane, and John "\V. (deceased), bv his last marriage. Two sons served in the Union Ai'my diu'iug the civil war, one dying in his country's defense. Mr. and Mrs. Weaver are members of the Free- Will Baptist Church. In politics he is a Republican.

J. B. WILHELM, farmer, P. O. St. Stephen, was born in France October 6, 1844, son of John and Catherine (Swailer) ^^'ilhelm, also natives of France. His father, who was a farmer, came to America in 1857, remaining two years in the State of New York, and thence came to and settled on a farm in Bloom Township, this county. Our subject, the oldest of foiu' children, was reared on the farm, receiving his education in the coimty schools at Republic Academy and Baldwin University, a Methodist institute at Berea, Ohio. At the age of twenty-two he commenced to teach school, chiefly in Stark County. Ho taught ten months each year for two years, and then for eight winters, working in the summers. He is an extensive reader. Mi\ Wilhelm was married, in 1871, to Marcella, daughter of Matthew and Annie (Melio) Delaney, natives of Ireland, her father being an early settler of Venice Township, this county, and to this union were born the following children: Francis X., Catherine and Clara. They are members of the Catholic Chiu'ch. IVIr. Wilhelm is one of the trustees of Venice Township. In politics he is a Democrat. He is owner of I265 acres of well-improved land.

E. D. WILLIAMS, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Attica, was born in Morgan County, Ohio, January B, 1853, son of O. H. and Agnes (Shepherd) Williams, natives of Ohio and of English and French descent, the former a carpenter in early life, but later a successful farmer, still residing on a farm. Their family consisted of twelve children, seven of whom now sui'vive. Our subject, the fourth in the family, was reared on the farm. His education was obtained in the normal school, Lebanon. Ohio, and at Fostoria, this county, where he attained his majority. He first taught school for six years, and then for three years farmed in the summers and taught in the winters. He has three sisters and one brother who have followed the same profession, and his brother E. E. is now a successful lawyer in West Jefferson, Madison Co. , Ohio. Our subject was married, in 1879, to Miss A. J. McKibben, of Scotch-Irish descent and daughter of James B. McKibben, a pioneer farmer of Venice Township, this county, but now a resident of Reed Townshiji, this county. To this union were born two childi'en: Bessie and Ivan. Mrs. Williams is a member of the Presb\^orian Church. In polities Mr. Williams is a Reiniblican.

Ringgold, Ohio, September 14, 1884. Dear Brother : I received your letter yesterday. Many tbanks for your kindness. Three weeks ago I visited the old home. I walked out from Mji'lla. When I arrived at the brow of the hill above the old schoolhouse, being tired, I lay down on the grass beneath the shady beech trees that line the hillside, and while lying there I lived over again our whole past life Jly mind went back to our boyhood days when we used to play in the bright sunny meadows of southern Ohio. I could see every little mill and Hutter-wheel we had ever made. I remeiubered oiir removal from Ringgold on to the old farm. 'l remembered our struggle with poverty, and I could see two little white-headed boys as they started out across the fields to their work, either talking over the hardness of their lot, or singing souie old war song that made the hills riug with gladness. 1 could see their white heads bobtdng up and down in the hot sun among the long coru rows, or after hoeing to the top of the hill, the giant strides we made to reach the bottom of the hill to begin anew another row. I remembered of lying behind the fence over ttehind the vineyartl (wliich had not then been plantedj, waiting for the horn to blow for (liuntT and talkiug over their wrimgs. which were more imaginary than real. I remeinln'red some of the tilings we were going to do when we became men. Yes. we would travel and see the world. I reuienibereU nvir school day.-i, the burning of the old schoolhouse uu the hill, our fun and light.s for our rights. 1 looked at the ol<l schoolhouse near home and could see a great change; the storms had washed the dirt away from the foundation, and it looked as if in a few more years it would topple to the ground. There is a little grov<' of locust trees above the schoolhouse that I helped t*i plant, and I guess you did,"too. I remembered our struggle to obtain an education. I can see two boys starting away from home, their arrival at Newark, their attendance at school at Fostoria aud the normal school rt Lebanon, Ohio, their success at school, and their success as teachers. Will the world ever be any better for our having lived in it? Certainly, if we do our duty, for tliat is all the most noted men ever accomplish. Memories of my brother who has ever been so true wi'U last until this life is lu) more. Many, many things were brought to iuy memory which, though they may never be recorded ou paper, in writing or print, yet they are printetl on the pages of memory wnich will never be erase<l until reason is detlironeil. .\gain, the scene is changed, and the wedding bells are ringing out their glad notes of joy. ( »ne h.as now the hand and heart of one of Seneca's fairest and best, whose love and womanl y grace is a more" precious heritage than palaces made of gold ; they are living the same life of happiness lived by so many since the world was young. E. l). Williams is now living the grand old life of a farmer, the most useful occupation among men. Slay happiness, health and prosperity be bis througlj a long and useful life, aud a fraud entrance into that rest that was planted for the children of men. Tlie other (E. E. Williams) is still ghtin^ the battle of life where he is carrying otf a few laurels in the practice of law. What will the future be? Time will tell. From your aftectiouate brother, E. E.

JACOB WISE, retired farraer, P. O. Attica, was born in Cumberland County, Penn.. January 10. 1819. His parents. John and Sophia (Wise) Wise, though of same name, were not related. His father was a native of Germany, and when tpiite young came to America, settling in Pennsylvania; his mother was a native of Pennsylvania, where they were married. The father of our subject, who was a blacksmith, came to this coimty in 1827. He obtained a State contract to buOd one mile and a half of turuj)iko in Reed Townshij), this county, for which he was to receive 413 acres of land in that township and $300 in cash. He completed the contract and commenced to improve his land, but died in 1834, having cleared but twenty acres. In politics he was a Jacksonian Democrat. He was a member and trustee of the Lutheran Church. Of his family of thii'teen chikli'en ten attained maturity. Oui' subject, the seventh born, was educated in the log schoolhouse, the first built in Venice Township, and which was located on the site of his present residence in Attica. He grew up on the farm, learned the mason's trade, and at the age of twenty-one leased the homestead fanu. ])roved himself to be a successful agriculturist, and later bought the interest of the othur heirs in the estate for which he now holds the deed given to his father by the State. He has been twice married, the first time, in 1840, to Eliza Armsby, of English- Irish descent, and who bore him six children, three of whom are now living: Alfred, a farmer, married; Josephine, wife of Benjamin Van Fleet, and Frank at home. This wife dying in 1870, 'Mr. Wise, in 1871, married ^Irs. Mary (Sutton) Hall, widowof Thomas Hall. !Mi's. Hall had two children: Lester and Albert. iL\ and Mrs. ^\'ise are members of the Regular Baptist Church, of which he has been d(>acon for the jiast twenty-five years. He has been a prominent m(>mber of the Masonic fraternity for twenty-five years; also is a member of Venice Lodge No. 197, I. O. 0. F, During the late civil war he was a member of the Forty-ninth Regiment Ohio Home Guards, which was called into active service for 100 days near the close of that struggle. He is a member of the G. A. R. He has served his township as trustee. Politically he is a Republican.

JOHN C. WORM, farmer, P. O. Carrothers, was born in Venice Township, this county. April 13. 1848, son of Christian and Hannah (Lehman) AVonn, who were among the pioneers of this county; coming here fi'om Germany in 1833. Our subject, the elde.st of a family of six children, was reared on the farm in Venice Township, attending the district school. When he was twenty years old he commenced to learn the carpenter's trade, aud has since continued to work at same; ui partnership with his brother Matthias, he carried on the farm which is well -improved, consisting of nearly 200 acres of good land. Oui- subject was man'ied. May 4. 1875, to Philomena. daughter of John B.

and JIai'garet (Steinmetz) Falter, and sister of Mi-s. Matthias Worm. To this union were born following childi'en: Mary J., Martha Celia, Clement A., Joseph Lawrence and Maggie J. The family are members of the Catholic Church. Politically Mr. Worm is a Democrat.

MORRIS WURTS, hardware mere^iant, Attica, was born in Canada, March y, 1883, son of Abraham and Rhoda (Willow) Wiuis, the former a native of New Jersey, of German descent, the latter a native of Canada, of English lineage. His father, a cooper by trade, also a fanner, was thrice man-ied, and had twenty-one childi'en, Moiris being the third born of the fourteen childi-en by last wife. Our subject received his education in Hiu-on Coimty, Ohio, where his parents resided in an early day. He was reared on the farm, and followed agricultiiral pvu'suits until 1878, when he removed to Attica. In 1884 he bought a half interest in the hardware store of Armatage & Wurts. He has been remarkably successful in business, owns town property at Belle\'ue, a fine residence in Attica, and a well-improved fann comprising 193 acres in Huron County, Ohio. He was married in 1860, to Caroline, daughter of Peter Burket, who was born in Ohio, of German descent. Their children are Harriet Edith, Loa Almetta and Merle Ethel. Mi\ and Mrs. Wurts are members of the Protestant Methodist Church, of which he has been trustee. In politics he is a Democrat.

Appendix

THE value of such a list, as is presented in the following pages, cannot be overestimated, particiilarly when the original piu-chasers of the land formed a majority of the pioneers of the county, as in this case. In the general history, as well as in the township histories, a complete record of grants, made by the United States to Indian captives, half-breeds, and others, appears. For this reason mention of such grants is not made in this division. Again, the names of pm-chasers of canal and pike-road lands are not given, the record of entry simi)ly crediting to the canal or road company. School lands are treated in the history of the township schools, except in some special cases, to which reference is made herein.

Acknowledgments are due to Gen. Sparks, United States Land Commissioner; to Assistant Commissioner Stockleger, and Chief Clerk Parke for official coiuiesies, and to Maj. Laurence for material aid rendered in the research.