Wadsworth City (part 3 of 6)

Before the establishing of a complete school system by 1;he Legislature, the inhabitants of the IVcstern Reserve inaugurated in each town a voluntary public school system. Then log schoolhouses were built by private labor, and an annual school-meeting was held, and what was called a school committee was appointed to provide teachers for the winter and summer schools, usually of four and five month's duration. Those who sent paid by the number of days of each scholar's attendance. When the teacher was a resident it was not uncommon, in the scarcity of money, for such as could pay in no other way to repay rhe teacher by work on his farm, in summer, day for day.

of ignoramuses, is entirely mistaken. The best education and talent were always in demand, and the teachers, schools, and scholars of that day when books were scarce, and when none of the modern lacilities were in existence, would compare favorably with those of the present, lakino- into the account the altered circumstances, 'i'hough books were scarcer, and the course of studies ]in;ited, there was a thoroughness in teaching and in tlie absence of anything to call otl" the attention of scholars, and an eagerness to learn that will always surmount all dilUc.ulties.

(,)f the early teachers of Wadsworth, the writer can vividly recall those who inspired their scholars witli a desire for knowledge; and the old copies of Webster's Spellingbook, American Preceptor, Columbian Orator, and English Reader (read over and over lor waul of variety), with DaboTs Arithmetic, Morse's Geograpliy, and Murray's trrammar, witli their time-soiled pag(;s testified to ihoi*- oiigh use and earnest study.

Those old teachers, Slierman Loomis, George Lyman, Lemuel North, and John Nesmith, deserve particular mention. It would be diflicult at this time to find a better rhetorical reader than Lemuel North, or one who inspired his scholars with a loltier ambition than did either of those worthies. And iiot a tew who have made their mark as scholars, and in the learned proiessions. received their iirst inspiration in those log-house seminaries.

In ISHO, while the first Congregational church was being tinished, a plan was suggested by Frederick Brown, and unanimously approved by the society, to give tlie use of the house free for a select school, on condition that the young men who desired such a school should provide the seats and desks, so prepared as to be convenient for use either for schools or public meetings. The plan was accepted by a sufficient number, the house finished, and a meeting called to provide iov such school. F. Brown, Chairman; Dr. G. K. Pardee, Secretary. A connnittee

George W. Barnes, a student of Western Reserve College (from Medina), was employed as teacher. The school was advertised, both in the neighboring papers and by jjosters, under the name ot Wadsworth Academy. Such schools were held in the winters, till in 18o4 John McGreuor, a native of Scotland, a graduate of St. Andrew's College, (xlasgow, came to the place and proposed to teach such a school through the whole year. His pi'oposition was accepied, and he continued as teacher, with one year's interval, till the year 1847.

We sometimes meet with a man of brilliant mind, who seems to have been born with a njission : successful in one direction and in that one alone. Yet that success so marked as to out-distance all competitors. Such a man was John McGregor. He seemed to have been made ibr a teacher. In those davs the fame of Wadsworth Acadeujv. which was simply John McGregor with a house to teach iji, extended far and near, and was known even beyond the limits oi' the State. liut lew teachers have had so many pupils who have been successful in after life, mainly through the impulse given to them by one mind. His method was simple, perfectly natural, yet inimitable. Graduates of a modern normal school would have found much to criticise in the order he kept. But what cared the enthusiastic Scotchman, so long as his scholars were dailv drinking in bis instructions and catching his enthusiasm, while their lessons were not conned over, but learned till they knew that they knew them?

He scorned all codes of rules for the government of his scholars. '- You are gentlemen and ladies," he would say ; " you have come here for one purpose, and that alone. It is your school, not mine, and yon will see to it that nothing shall call me from the one Avork of giving instruction. I rely solely upon your own self-respect and sense of propriety and honor." It was very rarely that he reproved, but if it had to be administered it left a scar. But such was his simplicity of heart, and sincerity, that if on reflection he thought he had done any injustice to a pupil, he would voluntarily ask i)ardon before the whole school. He loved and took a pride in his pupils, and his pupils loved and were proud of their teacher.

Amonu- the educational means of an earlv dav, the publie libraries formed no small part. The tirst circulating library was obtained in 1822. In the winter of that year. .Judge Brown having returned on a visit to Connecticut, obtained by donation from his old neighbors in Colebrook. a good collection of valuable books, which he brought home in a chest, in a one-horse wagon, a journey of i)00 miles, in the month of February. These books formed the nucleus of a circulating library, in charge of a society of ladies, called the A^adsworth Female Librarv Association ; ot which Mrs. Chloe 8. Brown was President ; Mrs. T*olly Eyles, Vice President ; and Mrs. Clymena Loomis, Librarian. This library association continued several years.

In 1823, another and larger library was established in the eastern part of the town, called the Wadsw^orth Farmers' Library. Of the first named library, two volumes are still held as relics. One, Josephus' Annals, by E. G. Loomis ; the other, Bunyan's Holy War, by E. Brown. Afterwards, a library association with a more extensive collection of books, was formed at the Center ; Dr. G. K. Pardee, Librarian.

Much credit is due to the young men of that period for the efibrts made in behalf of education. It was a call of young men. headed by Horatio Warner, that convened the tirst meeting for taking measures for a select school, in 1830.

lu 1828, the young' men met in the log sclioolhouse and organized a lyceum, under the name of the Wadsworth Literary Club. The same company also formed a rhetorical school, and chose Capt. George Lyman as teacher. They held weekly evening schools for speaking, acting of dialogues and coloquies, at the house of Benjamin Agard, and concluded with an exhibition in the unfinished upper story of the new house of William Eyles.

The exhibition, after the ancient style of dramatic performances, was opened by the recitation of a prologue, composed for the occasion by one of the young men,* which is given verbatim, from memory, and will answer as a specimen of Wadsworth pioneer poetry.

Unused to come before an audience To speak ov act, or any such pretense. Our youthful faces with confusion glow When we consider what a depth below Perfection's standard our endeavors all, At such a time as this, must surely fall.

But still, my friends, if you will bear in mind The many disadvantages we tiud. Our chance of practice limited and small, Our talents trifling, almost none at all, Our education poor, our means confined - I say if you will even keep these things in mind- Greatly surprised perhaps you will not be. Our imperfections and our faults to see. Some surly critic, niixed among the throng, May snap and snarl, and say that all is wrong- That not a sound salutes his ear aright. And not a graceful action meets his sight.

So he may criticise, detract, and rail. And say in every point we wholly fail. But stop, my friend, prithee don't be so fast! You may be partly wrong yourself, at last! Lend me your patience, while to you I tell An anecdote, that fits your case full well,

It was the very best I could provide ; And Avith the best you arc not satislied. Go - thankless cui I Go, villian, stay not here! And nevermore in human sight appear! 'Beggars should not bo choosers;' so now clear!" And now, my good friend, just hear one word more, jVud then my prologue will all ))e said o'er. There is a maxim which you all have seen. Which near expresses every word I mean: Never look a gift liorse in the mouth. Amen!

Criticism being tliiis disarmed, the exhibition was by universal consent pronounced a "' success." This exhibition was enliveud by an orchestra, consisting of a flute, chirinet, bass-viol, violin, and bassoon ; played by Uriah M. Chapx)el, W. S. Eichards, James ISTewcomb, Julius Kichards, and Ezekiel Richards.

A little subsequently, Dr. Pardee, at the request of the yotuig men, who contributed to defray tlie expenses of experiments, delivered a full course of chemical lectures. John McGregor also gave a course of lectures upon ancient histoi'y.

Of that class of young men who, amid so great disadvantages, " did the best their circumstances would allow,'' of which a poet sage says, " Angels could do no more," not one of them found life a failure. ]N"ot one lies in "a drunkard's grave ; not one has been an inmate of a prison or almshouse ; not one but has risen to respectable standing,

^nd attained success in his calling. As educational institutions, the saloon and billiard-hall were then unknown. Let the fruits of each tell for themselves. '' Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reai^.''

About 1829-31, the township was finally districted for school purposes, and more commodious frame structures built. These have since given way to still larger ones, principally built of brick, with the modern improvements. This brings us to the history of the public school building of Wadsworth viUage.

This was begun in 1869. The draft for the building was made by the late Col. S. C. Porter, architect, of Cleveland. It is a large brick building, erected at a cost of $25,000. The money was raised by bonds at 8 per cent. The interest and a part of the principal paid each year. Of that sum, there was still outstanding Jan. 1, 1875, $9,300. The building is of three stories, with Mansard roof. The whole upper story is furnished for a hall.

Founding Of A College

An important feature in the history of the town is the founding of a College, situated within the corporation limits. An institution that, though in its infancy, is doubtless destined to attain a future greatness and exert a widespread influence, from the fact that it is the only institution in the United States under the patronage of a large and wealthy Christian denomination.

The statistics of the denomination in 1860, showed that their communities in the United States and Canada numbered 128,000 members. Having no College or Theological Seminary in the United States, and being chiefly of German descent and speaking the German language, and but few of their churches paying their ministers a salary, a lijajority, especially of the Old School Mennonites, being opposed to salaried preaching, the want of a thoroughly educated ministry was extensively felt by the better educated class. That brajich of the church called the New Mennonites, iu 1860, called a general conference of the churches in West Point, Lee county, Iowa (the first held in the United St*ates), at which the following resolutions were passed, and are copied from a literal translation from their minutes, published in tlie German language :

1. That all the divisions of the Mennonite church in North America, without regard to minor points of diflereuce, should extend to each other tlio brother-hand.

2. That nothing should sever the brother-tie, except departure from the fundamental doctrines that have always been cherished b^ our churches since the days of Menno Simons.*

*Th08e fuuaamental doctrines alwve referred to are baptism after instniction, noiijuration, or not taking of oaths, and non-resistance, or the iiot taking «p of arms.

In the meantime funds were raised, and at a third conference, held at Summerlield, Illinois, Wadsworth, Ohio, was decided upon as the location, and a committee of management appointed. At that conference it was resolved :

2. That the name of the institution shall be, The Christion Educational Institute of the Mennonite Community, and shall be in all respects under the auspices of the general conference.

3. That only such men can be employed as officers or teachers as take a lively interest in the prosperity of the Mennonitt? communities, and the welfare of the Church of Christ in general.

4. Only such men can be employed as teachers in this instiution as possess a thorough knowledge of the Bible, and are conversant with the doctrines of Salvation through Christ, and of the general doctrines of the Mennonite churches, and heartly approve them. To wit : Nonjuration, adult baptism, and non-resistance, as taught by Menno Simons, and based upon the gospel.

5. The German language shall be the principal one taught, but other languages as necessity may call for ; and the full course shall be three years.

In 1864, the base of the building was erected, and iu 1865 the main building, a substantial brick structure, under the direction of Aaron Kent, of Pennsylvania, architect and builder. This first building is 65 feet by 38, with three stories and a basement. It stands at the geograi)hical center of the township, and at the western limit of the corporation. The cost of the building and grounds was $17,000.

This institution being the only one in this country of a large and able denomination, it is hoped and believed that as its benefits become known, they will be induced to give it a more liberal support, that the necessity shall be felt and the \yiiy opened to the addition of such departments as shall afford facilities for a thorough classical and scientific education, invite the patronage of the whole community, and the institution become one of the chief attractions of the place.

Revival And Enlaiigemknt Of The Chuikjhes

A history of the early churches of the township was g'iven in the memorial sermon. It is now in place to continue the history down to the present time.

The Congregational church from 1839 to 1842 enjoyed the ministry of Rev. Aaron K. AVright, a young man of superior ability, very much beloved by his people, and respected by the community ; and his death was lamented by all. He was succeeded by Rev. M. H. Wilder, two years, and W. Robinson, one year. The changes of population before referred to, and emigration of members of the church, reduced it in numbers till but ten members, two male and eight female, remained in 1861.

With the revival of business came membefs of that denomination, and in 1862 the church building was repaired, and the church resuscitated. It was supplied from year to year by various ministers, till Rev. Daniel E. Hatheway was settled as pastor and ordained, Nov., 1868. During his ministry the church was enlarged and strengthened*

Wads Worth Memorial, 127

He resigned his pastorate in March, 1874, and E^v. Edward brown was invited and acce pted the posirion. Arrived and commenced his hibors August 8, 1874, the 5oth aimiversary of the organization of the chnrcli, at wliich services, he, then a little child, was present.

The Methodist church was also revived, and in 1867 their liouse of worship was enlarged and re-modeled. They have been supplied with a ministry since their first organization, according to the itinerating system of that denomination. The church is now in a prosperous condition, with a commodious house and convenient parsonage, under the pastoral charge of Kev. A. Pollock.

The Disciple church have continued their worship in their church, finished in 1842, under various pastors, among them Revs. A. B. Green and H. Jones, and the last of whom were Eev. J. F. Rowe, Rev. J. Knowles from April, 1869, to April, 1872, and Rev. C. F. W. Cronemeyer present pastor. The present conditio)i of the church is prosperous, with good congregation and interesting Sunday-school.

The organization of the Reformed church was ettected on the 24th day of October, 1858. Its first pastor was Rev. Jesse Schlosser, who began his labors here about four months previous to the organization. During his pastorate the services were held in the Congregational and Disciple churches, kindly furnished by their congregations.

Six members constituted the church at the beginning. Their names, in the order in which they appear upon the record, are Henry Yoekey, Catherine Yockey, John C. Kremer, Lidia Kremer, E. K. Kremer, and Isaac Griesemer. The first oflicers were Henry Yockey, Elder, and J. C. Kremer, Deacon.

The second pastorate was that of Rev. Jesse Hines, who began his labors Juno 1st, 1860. It was under his pastorate that the old octagon academy building, and lot (elsewhere mentioned in this work), were purchased of Aaron Pardee, for $150, and converted into a house of worship. It was dedicated October 6th, 1861 ; Revs. S. B. Leiter and Wm. McCaughey preaching the dedicatory sermons.

His successor was Rev. S. C. Goss, the present pastor, who entered on his labors August 1st, 1866. At the beginning of liis labors the membership numbered 43. The present numerical strength of the congregation is 115.

Early in this pastorate, the congregation greatly beautified the old academy building. A new roof was put on, and it was re-paintcd outside and inside; also papered after a most beautiful design. Besides this, other improvements, which taken together gave a most delightful inside appearance to the " Eight-Cornered Church."

The growing interest and membership, however, began to point to the need of a larger house of worship. A movement in this direction was originated in the Consistory, early in 1872. Subsequently it was seconded by the congregation, and actual work in getting out material commenced in October of that year.

The cornerstone was laid June 29th, 1873, and on the 28th of December of tlie same year, the congregation was permitted to witness the dedication of their present beautiful churcli building, situated on the old site, on High Street, where now stands a sanctuary which, for architectural

The present officers of the church are : David Waltz, J. Jas. Hoffman, J. C. Kremer, Elders ; Hiram Yaukey, Henry Shelly, Deacons. Together with the pastor, these constitute the Consistory, and they also are the trustees in charge of the church property.

Emmanuel's Church, Reformed and Lutheran, is noticed in the memojL'ial sermon as being organized as a Union church oi' the two denominations ; its location being in the corners of the three townships of Wadsworth, Norton, and Chippewa. The first log meeting-house was built on the Chippewa, or Wayne county side of the line, and the town line cemetery located on the same side. This church has continued in existence ever since. Their different pastors, as nearly as I have been able to ascertain, were - Lutheran, Messrs. Merrick, Weigant, and Fast; Reformed, Benjamin Faust, Solomon Sonnerdecker, Charles Zwisler, John W. Harmer, E. D. Miller, and S. B. Leiter. About 1832, a large frame church was erected on the Norton side, and in 1873 the present new and commodious building, on the site of the old log church.

There was for a few years in the southern portion of the township, a small church of the denomination known as Albrights (one of the offshoots from the Methodist church), but as a church it has for some years been extinct. The Baptist church formed in the northwestern portion of Wadsworth and southwestern o-f Sharon, has likewise for several years been out of existence.

Of the denomination known as Mennonites, a name derived from their founder, or, as it is claimed, restorer of the church, Menno Simons, there are three divisions in Wadsworth. First, the Old Mennonites.

The first of that order who became a resident was Mr. Henry Geissinger, in 1825 ; the same year, Martin Overholtz and Joseph Overholtz, In 1827 they were joined by

Philip Geissiiiger, Daniel Widcman, John Long, Nicholas Kurtz and son, Samuel Kuitz, and Abraham Beam. In 1838, llev. William Overholtz came, who was their lirsi stationary preacher, and a church, or society was organized. Alter the deatli of Mr. Overholtz, Abiah Rohrer became t lie slated preacher. Mr. Rohrer is at this time (Feb., 1875) still living, at an advanced age. Jacob Coppes was also a preacher among them during tifte pastorates of Messrs. OverJioltz and Rohrer. I have not been able to procure any definite statistics of their membership. They have a good house of worship near the township line, but within the limits of Guilford tOAvnship.

The New Mennonite church was organized in October, 1852. Original members. Rev. Ephraim Hunsberger and wife, Jonas Nice and wife, Henry Nice and wife, Jacob Overholtzer and wife, Elias Smith and wife, and John Alderfer. Mr. Hunsberger has been the pastor of the church since its first organization. A brick church-building was erected soon after the organization of the church, at the junction of the Medina road, one mile west of the corporation. The present membership numbers 95. The Mennonite College, of which we have given a history, is under the auspices of this branch of the denomination.

The Evangelical Mennonites have also an organization, mace in 1873, and purchased the octagon church, once used for an academy building, and have repaired it and fitted it up in convenient form. Rev. Eusebius Harsha is their present pastor.

The War Record Of Wadsworth

Among the pioaeer settlers of Wadsworth, there were accounted seven who had borne arms in behalf of their country in the war of the Revolntiou, whicli we g'lvo with the State from which they enlisted.

To this list may be added the names of four other veterans, whose residence was just over tlie line in Norton, but were a part of the same community. Philemon Kirkum, Connecticut.

In the great struggle for the nation's life, the part borne by citizens of Wadsworth was one worthy to be commemorated in the history of the town.

The first enlistments were in the 29th Reg., O. T. L, Co. H. Thomas 3^'olger, Hiram Root, Frank H. Boyer, and Eli Overholt. They enlisted Oct. 28th, 18()1. They were in the battle of Winchester, Virginia, and at Port Republic, June 9th 1862, in which Hiram Root and Eli Overliolt were taken prisoners. Root, being wounded, was sent to Libby prison; Overholt to Belle Isle. Root was exchanged Sept. 1st, 1862, and joined his regiment. Overholt was exchanged, and returned Sept., 1862, and joined his regiment in 1863. F. H. Boyer and Thomas Folger were in the battles of Cedar Mountain, second Bull Run, and Gettysburgh. Root was discharged on account of his wound.

Overholt was wounded in the left leg, in Hooker's campaign, and after lying in hospitals at Acquia Creek, Washington, and Cincinnati, for eight months, was discharged.

Boyer served his time of enlistment, and re-enlisted one year in Hancock's Veteran Reserve Corps. Folger remained with his regiment, re-enlisted, and participated in the grand march of Sherman "from Atlanta to the sea," and reached the rank of First Lieutenant.

In October, 1861, three citizens, T. W. Screene, K. McNaull, and John Eeed enlisted in the Gth Ohio Battery. They were in the battle of Mill Springs, Jan. 10th, 1862 ; the siege and taking of Corinth ; the rapid march to save Louisville, Ky. ; the battle of Paynesville ; at the taking of Chattanooga ; the battle of Chicamauga, and the battle of Missionary Ridge. December, 1863, they re-enlisted in tlie battery ; after which, they were in the bloody battles of Resaca and Adairsville, and at Dallas ; at the six weeks constant lighting at Atlanta. Then in the engagement at Columbia, Tenn., Nov. 27th ; at Spring Hill, Nov. 29th ; and with Foote's Cavalry at Franklin, Nov. 30th. Again at Nashville, Dec. Mth ; at Oveton Hill. In April, 1865 were marched to Richmond, when Lee surrendered. They were in all the engagements with the battery.

which were Cumberland gap, Clncasaw BliilVs, Arkansas Post, Magnolia Hill, Champion Hill, Bhick Jiiver Bridge. Vicksburg, Jackson, Comite Kiver.

That regiment was in 97 battles and engagements, marched an aggregate distance of 27,000 miles, served in 5 dilierent armies forming a continuous lii.e of armies from the head waters of the Arkansas to the mouth of the James ; and its dead, reposing where they fell, form a vidette line half across the continent - a chain of prostrate sentinels, 2,000 miles long."*

In August, 1862, part of Company I, llegiment 103, (). V. I., was made up in Wadsworth. First enlistment : Edward Andrews, 2d Lieut, liesigned. May 19th, 1805. Henry A. Mills, Sergt., 1st, and 2d Lieut.

These served through campaigns in the Kanawa Valley, West Virginia, Southeast Kentucky, East Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas. Participated in the battles of Tazwell, Tenn., Ang. 6th, 1862, Chicasaw Blulls, Miss., Dec. 27, 28, and 29, 1862. Magnolia Hilh Miss., May 1st, 1863, Cliampion Hill, or Baker's Creek, Miss., May 16th, 1863, Black River Bridge, Miss., May 17th, 1863, siege and captnre of Jackson, Miss., from July 7th to loth, 1863. Campaign on the coast of Texas, and on Red River, Louisiana; building of Great Dam at Alexandria, La., to float the gunboats over the rapids, besides numerous other forays and skirmishes in the enemy's country.

Three young men, natives of Wadsworth, who had removed, died in the service, James L. Grotz, son of Abraham and Caroline Grotz, in the 7th Illinois Cavalry, died July 5th, 1862. Frederick G. Dean, born March 1st, 1834 ; died at Quincy, 111., May 17th, 1862. Stowell G. Dean, born Oct. 30th, 1838 ; died at Camp Dcuinison, May 6th, 1862 ; sons of Benjamin Dean ; members of Co. G, 13th Reg., la. V. I. Also a Mr. Shafer, died in service.

The following natives of Wadsworth served their term of three years in the 41st 111., and left an honorable record : John Baughman, John Loutzenheizer,

Wads Worth Memorial

The above 72 )iames are all that were reported for this work ])revious to going to press (Feb. 20;. Should any others be ascertaiiied, they will appear in an appendix.

Establishment Of The Public Press

In the year 186(^. a weekly newspaper, called the Wadsworth Enterprise, was established by John A. Clark and George A. Root. The first number was issued May 4, 1866. At the end of the first year, Mr. Clark purchased his partner's interest, and continued the publication alone till 1870, when Mr. Emmanuel Lowry became a partner for the term of one year ; since which time Mr. Clark has been the sole proprietor. The present weekly circulation of the Enterprise is about 1000.

In November, 1872, Mr. George C. Bennett started a monthly juvenile paper at Clark's Corners, in Wadsworth township, called the Young Folks'' Gem. Tlie publication office was moved in December, 1873, to Sharon Center. By offering' premiums and advertising, he secured a subscription list of 125,000. Mr. Bennett died March 20th, 1874. Mr. Clark, editor of the Enterprise, purchased the Ge^yi of the administrator of Bennett's estate, and moved it to Wadsworth. Since that time its circulation has doubled, having at this time (Feb., 1875), 250,000 subscribers.

Mr. Clark has erected a commodious brick building, of three stories, with a basement for engine, with two cylinder presses, on which the Enterp7'ise and Gem, and another monthly entitled Funny Things, are printed. Another monthly, published at Poe, in this county, called the Scholar, is printed at this office. There is also a job office for all kinds of printing attached. The establishment gives constant employment, in its various departments of business, to upwards of 30 persons : and by its facilities for publication, advertising, and job work, and by its publications going to every part of the Union and making the . place known, is doing much for its prosperity. The Ge7n is taken in every State and Territory of the Union, has a large circulation in Canada, and is supposed to have a larger subscription list than any other juvenile paper in the world.

The precccdiiig- sketches close the past liislory of the town, and bring- it up to the present time. It remains to briefly sketch the present aspect of the phice, its business and resources, and future prospects.

It may uow be set down as one of the orowing- viUages ot the State, destined to be in tlie future a phicc of in)i)ortance, and become extensively known. It is a railroad center for a large section of country. 'JMie near vicinity of the coal-mines has made it a good location for manufacturing, and extensive manufactures have sprung u]). Of these we will mention some of the more prominent.

In 1865, a company was organized for this purpose, consisting of Silas P. Chandler, H. Z. Chandler, E. G. Loomis, E. H. Loomis, George Wise, A. K. Tennypacker, and II. G. Folger, under the name of the Wadsworth Machine Company. A large building was erected near the depot, and fitted up with steam-works, and furnace for casting, with all kinds of machinery necessary for manufacturing threshing-machines, horse-powers, seeders, horse-rakes, plows, cultivators, harrows, and all kin<ls of farm machinery ; together with farm wagons and sleds, and all kinds of castings in common demand. It has usually eiiii)loyed about 30 hands, and its machinery is extensively known, and sales extend into other States.

In 1872, S. P. and II. Z. Chandler purchased the interest of all the other partners, and the business has been carried on under the name of S. P. Chandler & Bro. In October, 1874, the building was burned with all its appurtenances ; but the insurance upon it of over -$20,000 was promptly paid, and it is now being rebuilt on an enlarged scale, with the design on the opening of spring to enlarge its operations beyond what has been done heretofore.

Maniufacture Of Paints

This business was starlet! in 1873, by a com])anY con-' sisting- of II. Z. (chandler. Philander Chandler, E. G. Loomis, Al)iel Briii'o-s, and Geov^'e Kino'sbnry, and a laro-p business in the manufafture of paints established. TJie factory is now owned and carried on by IT. Z. Clian'dler and William C. Burt.

Of this department of business there are two manufaclories. witli sawmills attached. In 1807, J. G. Kulp, Sam. Nash, and Ephraim and Christian llunsberg'er erected the larger factory near the depot. It is now owned by J. TJ. Laiix. J. S. Oberlioltzer, and Paul AYall. In the diflerent departments of the business it employs from 12 to 15 hands.

In 1870, Abraham Yoder commenced the same business u.» the site of the old Loomis & Beach sawmill. It is now owned l)y a company consisting of A. Yocer. T. W. Screene, II. Hard, and D. Noll, under the business name of Yoder, Screene, & Co. Both establishments do a large business for the town and adjoining country.

Spring Bed-Bottom Manufactories

There are three cstablishn.ients for tlie manufacture of spiral wire spring; bed bottoms. The business was first begun by P. C. and E. J. Hard, on a x^rinciple of fastening the spring patented by Dr. Hanson Hard. Dr. Hard himself afterwards carried on the business about a year, and since that time W. N. Eyles and William Freeborn have continued the business at the old stand. They manufacture about 2,000 bed bottoms per annum. They also make spiral springs for chairs, and spring cushions and spring seats for wagons.

patented by P. C. Hard. In 1874, P. C. Hard boiioht the » shares of all the company. The business is now carried on by P. C. and E. J. Hard. They send off 5000 per annum. Tliey also do a large business in the manulacture of single spring cots for hotels, boarding-houses, college rooms, etc.

All of these manufactures are of the same style of spiral wire ; their principal difference being in the mode of fastening the springs, whicli each is able to demonstrate to their customers is better than all the others.

This business was started about 1838, by George Beach and H. J. Traver, and has been continued at the old stand since that time, under the names of H. J. Traver, Traver & Co., Stevenson, Browning, & Steele, and since 1872 by A. P. Steele and L. E. Browning as the firm of Browning & Steele. The establishment gives employment to about 20 hands, and will compete with any similar one in the beauty and finish of its wagons and carriages.

From 1807 to 1873, Josiah Andrews carried on the wagon making business at the old stand formerly occupied by his brother, Capt. Edward Andrews, deceased. In 1873, he enlarged the business by adding the manufacture of carriages. The establishment, though new, has obtained a good reputation. It gives employment to about 10 hands-

Wadsworth Woolen Mill

This establishment manufactures all-wool goods, such as cloth flannels, blankets, jeans, satinets, and all varieties of stocking yarn. The machinery consists of one wool-picker, five carding-machines, and one spinning-macliine. It iBinploys 4 hands in this department. Average amount of wool used per day,' 80 pounds. The weaving room contains 7 narrow cloth and flannel looms, and one broad blanket loom. Amount of flannel per day from one loom, 40 yards ; cloth, 25 yards ; blankets, 25 yards ; one hand to each loom. The stocking yarn machinery consists of one twister and one dou])ler, each employing one hand. The finishing department contains one dyer to dye wool, flannel, and yarn ; one finisher to finish bolts and goods ready for market ; one wool-scourer to clean all the wool. Number of hands employed in all the departments, 18. The amount of wool consumed per annum is about 8,000 lbs.

Organ Manufactory

In 1874, Messrs Solomon Werley and James Scott commenced the manufacture of reed organs. Their work is ot superior quality. They claim for their organs superiority in quickness of speech, and power. They are young men, without large capital, doing their own work ; but their ))usiness, for a new enterprise, is prosperous. Their work is receiving favor and gaining ground, with promise of future success.

Marble Works

There are also the usual shops which every village demands, among which are the shoe shops of Lyon & Funk, Pleifter & Hunsberger, Koplin, A. 0. Beck & Son, and M. Bender ; the harness shops of W. E. Beardsley and Joseph Rech; and cigar manufactory of Yoder & Gunsaulis.

Furniture Mercantile

Tlie whole juinihcr of retail stores of all kinds, large and small, is a little over thirty. Of these, there are the general retail stores of dry-goods, groceries, and qneensware, of Daykin & IJilliard, and of L. S. Gilbert, with large assortments of goods ; the clothing" and merchant tailoring estahlishment of Dnrling & Woodward, first established l)y James K. Dnrling, James Daykin, and John J. Woodward; and that of TI. Bolich & Co. ; each doing an extensive business.

The hardware and iron store, establised in 18G5 by E. Benedict and C. T. (Uitlbrd, has been owned by C. T. Clifford alone since 1807. lie has bnilt up a large hardware trade where before tlie people went to Akron for all goods in that lino. Since that time, S. T. Franks & Son have opened a tuU store of the same kind, and Kreider Brotliers another for the sale of stoves and tinware. What in 1805 seemed a hazardous business for one firm, has now growni into a large and prosperous one for three.

There are two watch, clock, and jewelry establishments, by C. II. Wood and M. C. Burdoin. Tw^o flour and feed stores, by II. N. Ilickox, and E. Stucker. The drug store of W. P. Curtis, with a large and full assortment; and that of J. D. Boss, also well supplied. There are also two millinery stores, by^Miss E. J. Fisher, and Mistresses Chapin & Wilcox.

Pastors Of The Churches

who is often luciitioiied in tlie ])ioncei' portion of this historv. He was born in Coll)rook,('t., Nov. 1st, 1814. He came witli the family to Wadsworth in Ma)-, 1816, and spent most of his early years here. Was educated at Western Reserve Colleg-e, Hudson. Removed to Indiana in 1840, and engaged in teaching in Peru and Logansporl. and as principal of Lagrange CoUeghite Institute, Ontario, Tnd. Studied law with Stuart & Diddle, of Logansport, and practiced as an attorney and counselor at law in Lima, Indiana, Otsego, Michigan, and Wliitewatcr, Wisconsin ; in all about 9 years. Left the legal profession for the niinistry, nnd commenced his labors at Wautoma, Wisconsin, In 1852. Was ordained at Green Bay, Jan. 13th, 1853. Preached at Wautoma, Waukau, Fond du Lac, La Crosse, La Crosse Valley, Wis., and at Zumbrota, and Medford, Minnesota. Commenced his hibors at Wadsworth Aug. 8th, 1874.

Rev. S. C. Goss. pastor of the Reformed church, Avas born in Basil, Fairiield county, Ohio, in July, 1841, and entered upon his collegiaie studies at Heidelberg College, at Tiffin, in August, 1857, graduating in June, 1862. He enlisted in the 90th Regiment, O. V. I., in the following August, and served as a private for two years ; after which he returned to Tiffin and began his theological studies? graduating in May, 1866. Was licensed at the synod a^ Gallon, in the same month, and in August of the same year came to Wadsworth, and was ordained in October, 1866.

Rev. S. B. Leiter (Reformed) was born April 19th, 1809, and reared near Leitersburg, Washington county, Maryland, and educated for the ministry at the theological institutions of the Reformed church located at York, Pennsylvania. He was licensed by the Maryland chassis iji 1835, and ordained at Hagarstown in November of the same year. Was sent West soon after by the Board of Missions, and located at Mauslicld, At the end of 9 years he moved to Rome, Richland county, where he lived five years ; then moved to Navarre, Stark county, where he resided for 18 years, coming- to Wadsworth in April, 1868, ])reaching- in each of those places. His present charge is Emmanuel's Church. He received the honorary degree of D. I), from Heidelberg Colleg(}.

Rev. C. F. W. Cronemeyer, pastor of the Church of Christ (Disciple), was born in Detwold, Germany, April 4th, 1840. Emigrated to America in 1855. Graduated at Tetlerson College, Cannonsburg, Pa., in 1865. Ordained to the ministry at New Baltimore, Ohio. Has labored in New Baltimore, and Strectsborough. Came to Wadsworth and commenced his pastoral work July 1st, 1872.

Rev. A. Pollock, pastor of the Methodist E. church, was born March 17th, 1837, in Washington township, Richland county, Ohio. He is of Scotch-Irish descent' lie entered the ministry in the fall of 1861. His fields of labor have been Port Clinton, Clarksfield, Milan, Medina, llichfield, Penfield, and Wadsworth. Received a classical education in a private school.

Rev. E. Hunsbcrger, pastor of the Mennonite church? was born in Montgomery county. Pa., in 1814, and commenced preaching in that place in 1850. He removed to Wadsv^orth in 1853.

Dr. C. N. Lyman, son of George Lyman, was born in Wadsworth, Mar. 9tli, 1819. Studied with Drs. G. K. Pardee and E. Kendrick. Graduated at Medical department of Transylvania University, Lexington, Ky. Commenced practice in Wadsworth in 1843.

Dr. N. S. Everhard, seventh son of Ja(;ob Everhard, was born in Chippewa, Jan. 8th, 1841. Studied with Dr. A. Everhard, liipon, Wisconsin. Graduated at Cleveland Medical College. Commenced practice in Wadsworth in 1868.

Dr. "VY. A. BnVofs, son of Abie] Erigg-s, was born in Sharon, Jan. 22d, 1848. Sludied witli Dr. Lyman. Graduated at the Medical Department of Michigan University. Commenced i)ractice in A'\^adsworth in 1871.

Attorneys At Law

Aaron Pardee, the youngest of the Pardee brothers, prominent among the pioneers of Wadsworth, son of Ebenezer and Anna Pardee, was born in Skeneateles, N". Y. Oct. 8th, 1808. Came to Wadswortb in 1824 Engaged in farming when a yonng man, bnt studied hiw in his leisure liours, until he accjiiired such a knowledge of it as to entitle him to admission to practice in the courts of the State. He was admitted to the bar in 1837. Since that time he lias followed that profession in Medina county. He has been twice elected to the Senate of the State ; was the fir^t Mayor of TVadsworth viljage; President of the School Board, and Justice of the Peace ; was Asssessor of Internal Revenue, by api)ointment of President Lincoln.

Henry Pardee, second son of Aaron, born in AYadsworth, was connected with his falher in legal business for several years. He is now Auditor of the county, at Medina.

George K. Pardee, fourth son of Aaron, was born in Wadsworth, 1840. Studied law with his father, and has been engaged in the profession since 1871.

Pulaski C. Hard, fourth son of Cyrus Hard, was born in Wadsworth, May 19th, 1831. Studied law with William Cunningham, Esq., at Canal FuHon. Graduated at the National Law School,* Balston Spa, IST. Y., in 1852. Commenced practice in Waclsworth, 1853.

Wadsworth Baxk

This institution was established March 14th, 1873, with a capital of $50,000. Its present officers are : W. P. Curtis, J. K. Durling, II. Z. Chandler, E. G. Loomis, J. Lytle, Directors; John Lytle, President; A. L. Corman, Cashier.

Historical Sketch Of

The history of the coiiiilry or" which AVadsworth is the center, especially its pioneer history, can not be properly given without a brief sketch of each of tlie four adjoining townsliips. As in the early times the eastern part of Wadsworth formed one conimnnity with the western and northern portion of Norton ; the western with Guillord, and the southern witii Chippewa; while tlie eai'ly ^etllcn:ent of Sharon was largely made up from Wadsworth - we shall devote a brief space to each, with such biograi)hical sketches of the more promiueul of the early settlers of each as can be obtained.

The town of Norton, lying east of Wadsw^orth, witli it made up the original town of Wolf Creek, Portage county. On the organization of Medina county, it formed the i>ontheaster)i township. It was named from Birdseye Norton, one of the original proprietors of the land. On the organization of Summit county, Norton, with all in the 12lh range of townships, was set otl' from Medina county.

The first wiiite man wiio had a liabitation in the township, was the same John Holmes, or ''Indian Holmes," who resided previously lor a short time in Wadsworth. He had his cabin, guarded by four savage dogs, on W^olf

Creek, when the first settlers came in ISU. His squaw wife was the pioneer in female niedieal practice, being a celebrated ''Indian doctoress," in r'oots and herbs.

Ilohnes' account of liimself was that he was a native ot Enuiand. That he was in youth a clerk in a French trading- establishment in Montreal, and was sent to Detroit with a small stock of goods to dispose of at a treaty council. That ids goods being stolen, he was afraid or ashamed ' to go back, and took up his abode with the Indians.

The first sefJler was John Cahow, from Maryland, who came with his sons, James, William, George, and Thomas, in 1810. The n<'xt were James ]?ot)inson. from Otsego, N. Y.. and Basil Cahow. In 1811, Hinsdale Bates, with his sons, Lyman, Dennis, Talcott, and Curtis, settled south of Johnson's Corners. In 1812, his sons Nathan. Lyman, and Dennis, took up the land around what has from that time been know)i as Bates' Corners.

In, 1813, Theodore H. Barmelee, from Coshen, Ct., and Henry Vanllyning, from Mohawk Valley, N. Y., with his sons, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Thomas, Henry, Andrew,

In 1815, Peter Waltz, jr., John O'Brien, Samuel Baker, Phineas Barnes, Benjamin P. Hoadly, Ambrose Palmer, Elisha Hinsdale, Scth Lucas and sons, Samuel, flarry, Setli, and William.

In 1817, Dr. Miles Clark, and his brother, Judge Lyman Clark; Levi Canfield and sons, William, Levi, and Dr. Elisha; Elias Ilurlbutt, William Holmes, Joachim Wilson, Silas Bronson, Phineas Bronson ; Joseph Way and sons, Levi and Joseph; Joseph D. Humphrey, and John Hall; Samuel Green and sons, Alanson, William, Almon, and Philander; Peter Mills and William Carpenter.

In 1819, Jonathan Taylor and Chauncej^ Gilbert built a sawmill on Wolf Creek, in the northeast part of the township. In 1825, James Taylor, brother of J. Taylor, was killed by a sawlog rolling over his body.

In 1828, Thomas Johnson built tlie Mill on Hudson's Kuii, at what is known as Johnson's Corners. In 1832, lie built another on the sanie stream, below the first. In raisino-this mill, Dennis Bates was accidentally knocked oft* the top, and instantly killed.

New Portage, first laid out as a village by And>rose Palmer and Ephraim Roberts, was at an early day a flourishing village for so new a country. In 1823, Dr. JVliles Clark, and one or two partners, set up a manufactory of glass, which did considerable business, but was suspended on his death in 1827.

The vicinity of the great swamp, and of the marslies of the Tuscarawas and Wolf Cieek, made the people of the place peculiarly subject to malarious fever, almost entire families being swept off. For a time, in 1824, only Dr. Clark and his brother were able to take care of the sick. In 1826, so great was the sickness that the village was almost entirely deserted. The draining of the Tuscarawas marshes by the completion of the Ohio Canal, and clearing up and draining of the swamps in subsequent years, removed the cause, so that itjias been healthy in later years.

Amongthe early settlers who took i)art in the Revolution, not before mentioned, were Henrv Vanllvning, Hinsdale Bates, Samuel Baker, Phineas Bronson, Silas Bronson, Phineas Barnes, Cato Mead, Hosea Wilcox.

The first settlers coming just before the war of 1812, were in continual fear of being massacred by the hostile Indians, those in their viciuity seeming to be waiting the issue to decide on which side to array themselves.

It is related of John Cahow that he built a small stockade around his house, and his only window was a hole through the logs, opened and closed by a thick sliding plank. VaiiHyning and Kirkiim had bought their lands in 1812, but remained, the first in Northampton, and the other in Stow^ townsliip, till after Perry's victory on Lake Erie, and the defeat of General Proctor and Tecumseh by General Harrison. The tacts related by them in after years will illustrate the anxiety felt by the pioneers in those days.

News had come of the British ileet on Lake Erie, bringing troops to destroy (^leveland and overrun Ohio, and it was expected that, should they land, the Indiaiis would rise and come upon them, to exterminate by indiscriminate butchery.

Kirkum and Judge Wetmore, then living at Stow Lake, had their goods packed and teams ready, to start at the first warning of deteat. Couriers had been stationed from Cleveland to Canton, to give the first news. Sept. 9th, news came that Perry was on his way with his improvised fleet, to meet the enemy. I will give Vanllyning's story as told by himself, when nearly 100 years old, to Charles Coe, from whom I have it:

" I was, on the morning of Sept. 10th, plowing upon a high hill, in Northampton township; and I heard in the northwest a low sound, like a distant cannon-shot. Soon I heard it again. Soon the third. I stopped my team, and climbed a tree to look and listen. In a i'ew minutes the sounds came so frequent that I knew the battle had begun. I unyoked my oxen, and hurried to the house. My wife was weaving. Said I, Woman, the battle has begun. I have heard the cannon. I will take old White and ride to Wallace's tavern (Northfield, about 12 miles), and get the first news. If word comes to j-ou that we are defeated, have the boys yoke the oxen to the wagon, put on what goods you can, cut your piece from the loom, and start for Canfield, and I will overtake you.

Perry's whipped the Britisli !' We all sprung up, and hurrahed at the top of our voices. I swung- my old hat till I tore off the brim. At daylight I started for home. 1 found my wife at tlie loom. Says I, Weave on, woman, weave on ! we are victorious ! Now, boys, we'll get ready and move to Wolf Creek.''

But few remnants of the original families remain in the township. For that reason it has been found impossible to uet at manv facts and names of its earlv historv. The township is one of excellent land, with extensive mines of coal in the southwestern portion, and quarries of buikling stone in the northeastern. It has within its area, six small villages: New Portage and Dennison on the railroad, Bates' Corners, Norton Center, Jolmson's Corners, and part of Western Stai*. In those there are five church edifices, and commodious schoolhouses.

Historical Sketch Of

The township of Chippewa, in Wayne connty, lies south of Wadsworth, and the line of the Western llcserve. This line in pioneer times was called the " Congress Line/' and hv tiiose south of it, the '' Yankee Line."

The first settlers were mostly from Pennsylvania, and the greater part of German origin, who retained the German language, and maintained German schools for many years. On that account there was only limited acquaintance between them and the New England poi-tion of the people of AYadsw^orth, w^hile the German portion formed with them one community. The old pioneers are mostly dead, or removed from the locality, and from the facts hefore stated, it has been almost inijossible to get at any certain history of the first settlement.

Among the earliest, from 1814 to 1818, were Peter Waltz' sr., and sons, John and David; Jacob Everhard, Thomas Frederick, Henry Shook; Henry Franks and sons, John, Michael, Henry, Abraham, and Uriah, and his brothers, John and Jacob ; Jacob Hatlield, John Routson ; John, George, and AYilliam Halloway ; David Johns; Henry, John, and Charles lieckerthorn ; John Aiise, John Brown,

Michael Brouse, Joseph Toiisley, Rev. Henry Wj^o^ant, William Graham, Ebeiiezer Andrus, Wm. Middleton. Wm. Parks, John Porter. A little later, Peter and William Colbetzer, John Betts, Simon Elliott, John Lee, Jacob Yonker, John and Arnold Heffleman, Adam Shatto, Isaac Montgomery, Wm. Foster, Daniel Doyle, Joseph Springer ; Alexander Woods, Alfred Chidister, Ephraim Chidister, Chi'istian Koplin, Christian Wall, Frederick Galehonse and sons, David, John, Sannicl, and Elias ; George and W. Wellhonse. TTenry Ilontz, Thomas Harkins.

Abont 1818, Daniel Slanker built the mill 4 miles south of Wadsworth village, owned for upwards of 30 years by George Wellhouse, and since by Benjamin Harshy.

About the same time, John l^ced built the mill afterwards owned by AlexandeV Woods. About 1830 or 1831, Ephraim and Alfred Chidister built a sawmill and woolen factory on the same stream (still owned by A. Chidister, son of Alexander), and John Brown a gristmill, still farther down.

In an early day a village was located on the east line of the township, by Messrs. Harvey, and the first store in the township opened by Dr. Porter. The location of Clinton and Fulton, on the canal, destroyed the village.

Two other villages were located in the early times. Slankerville, now Easton Station, on the Tuscarawas Valley R. R., now becoming a place of business. Doylestown, laid out by Daniel Doyle, is now a flourishing village, supporting a weekly paper, having several stores, a large manufactory of reapers and mowers and other agricultural implements. It has a good graded school, and five church edifices; Presbyterian, Methodist, Lutheran, Disciple, and Catholic. There is one churcli building at Slankerville, built as a Union meeting-house.

Source changes here: from Wadsworth Memorial; an Account of the Proceedings of the Celebration of the Sixtieth Anniversary of the First Settlement of the Township of Wadsworth, Ohio, by Brown, Edward, published 1875; 40,139 words in this source stream.

Wadsworth City

The undersigned, acting as a committee for themselves and all the old residents and their descendants now living in Wadsworth, extend to you a cordial invitation to be with us on

Thursday, May 28, 1874

The sixtieth anniversary of the settlement of Wadsworth, called to revive old recollections, and renew old acquaintances. We hope to see every old pioneer now living, wherever scattered abroad, present on that occasion. Many have already given assurance that they will be present if alive. We also invite all the Mothers, Wives, Sisters, Daughters, Fathers, Husbands, Sons, and descendants of the old pioneers, and all their friends, assuring them of a most cordial welcome. Arrangements will be made for the accommodation of all who will favor us with their presence. Let each one bring with him any interesting

We desire to add to our present stock of materials for the early history of the township, a biography of each old resident, containing the date and place of his birth, and all such other facts as may be now known. Let each pioneer write out something, or cause it to be done, of history of himself or some other ; also facts, anecdotes, or what may be remembered of " Auld Lang Syne." In the history we shall publish, we shall embody the names of all our guests, with an account ol the proceedings of our Anniversary Day ; also all such letters as may be received from old settlers unable to attend.

Come, then, old pioneers, and see the Wadsworth of today - witness the result of your labors, cheer us by your presence and help us to make it a gala-day. We expect one of the largest meetings of the kind ever held, and hope to have a good time generally. Please write to us on receipt of this, and assure us of your presence if possible ; and if not, write anyway. Address Corresponding Secretary.

Proceedings Of The Pioneer Meeting

For several weeks the people of Wadsworth had been making preparations to receive the early settlers of the township, and give them a rousing reception. The time slowly approached, and occasionally an old settler came in to look over the scenes of his childhood, before the day arrived. The day previous to the celebration, quite a large number arrived, and on the 28th many more came, strangers to almost all, yet warmly attached to the old, old home. They looked with astonishment upon the Wadsworth of today, and could scarcely realize that here is where they heard the dreary howl of the wolf, and saw the panting deer chased by the early hunter. Here was the scene of their early trials and hardships ; here they spent the prime of their lives, and here to-day they shed the tear of joy.

Thursday, May 28th, opened clear and warm. At an early hour teams began to come in from the country, and by 10 o'clock the streets began to assume a crowded appearance.

As the procession was very long, the march was from the square south to Pine street, down Pine to Lyman, and up Lyman to Loomis' beautiful grove. Here were a large number of seats, all occupied, and many were not able to sit. The woods were full of wagons and people. The stand was capable of seating about eighty persons, and was

Wadsworth Memorial

Judge Allen Pardee, President of the day, called order, and a song, entitled "Welcome, Pioneers," composed for the occasion by Mrs. Stanhope, of Guilford, daughter of Judge Henry Hosmer, was sung by the choir, with instrumental accompaniment; at the close of this, Rev. J. E. Rowe, of Akron, offered prayer, the audience rising. A song, entitled "Fifty Years Ago," was then sung, followed by music by the band.

Benjamin Dean, of Iowa, was then introduced as the first man who struck a blow toward the settlement of Wadsworth. Aaron Pardee then read an address, prepared by Mr. Dean, he being unable to read, from the infirmities of age.

Ox-yoke, shown by A. Hinsdale ; 55 years ago was used on one ox ; (single ox did all their work for several years ; going to church, mill, etc.).

the original inventor of iron ships. Judge Hosmer has had it for about 30 years. Was originally rigged with masts, etc. N. B. Eastman gave explanation showing the design. Hard, of Wooster, gave further information. This invention was gotten up by Olcott, when a student at Yale College. The inventor died in the poorhouse, in Medina county.

Her father was a soldier in the Revolutionary War. She was born in 1797. She gave some accounts of early recollections and incidents of about 1816-1818 ; among which was the dressing of a rattlesnake for a sick woman, and the history of her family, breathing a very good and Christian spirit.

Biographical sketches by Aaron Pardee, and also giving history of his arrival here, and a brief, practical allusion to the past, and the Wadsworth of to-day.

James Redfield, of Harrisville, the famous wolf-catcher, one of the three survivors of those who first came into this county - gave several wolf stories; he had carried several home alive, after they had been caught in a trap: had caught 120 up to 1830; bought a horse for one dollar to use in bating traps. To encourage the young people in getting married, he said he caught wolves to get money to pay the minister with,

Friday, May 29

The day opened clear and hot, but the programme of visiting different points of interest in the township was carried out. The party consisted of about twenty-five persons, and went first to Western Star, thence north to the cemetery, thence on to Bigelow Chapel, and thence home by the diagonal road.

On the way to the cemetery, they stopped at interesting points, when Rev. Edward Brown explained scenes and incidents of early pioneer life in the wilds of Wadsworth, which brought up its early history vividly to the minds of the company.

At the old cemetery, north of Western Star, scores of names on tombstones, sacred to the memory of good men and women, were read, and blessed memories recalled of them, although some of them had lain there over half a century. After a sad, but pleasant half-hour was spent in this sacred spot, the company proceeded on their return to the village.

On their way to Western Star, the company hauled up to the pleasant residence of that old pioneer, Philo P. Mills, and were received by him and his excellent wife with an old-fashioned, hearty welcome, and regaled witli cream, milk, cakes, etc., and had a most pleasant time, never to be forgotten by its fortunate participants.

On their return home, they were ordered into the pleasant yard and residence of the late Col. H. A. Mills, where they were most hospitably entertained by his son and worthy wife.

They separated, many of them never again to meet oil this side of the mystic river. May we all he blessed and benefited by tin's pleasant reunion, and be ever ready, when the summons conies, to go hence.

At 3 o'clock i\ m., a general reception was given at the M. E. church, Sherman Blocker* of Akron, presiding. Remarks were made by W. McCloud and Deacon Northrop? after which a recess of fifteen minutes was had, during which there was a very social time. After recess, a motion prevailed to limit speeches to live minutes. Remarks were made by Gen. Northrop, M. 0. Hills, Capt Geo. Lyman? Mrs. Hobart, Rev. E. Brown, Benj. Tyler, L. N. Hard, and various others, occasionally interrupted by recesses, and singing led by Gen. Northrop, the latter consisting of old tunes in the old style.

Mrs. Hobart had lately made a visit to Brecksvil-le, and brought from Rev. Breck, who used to preach here, for the Congregationalists, his congratulations and good wishes.

Mr. Pardee referred to a number of letters from old pioneers, not read yesterday, for want of time, among which was one from Ira A. Sprague, of Glenwood, Iowa; one from A 1 mon B. Green, of "Willoughby, Lake county, O. ; one from Philander Green, of Lordstown, Trumbull county. O. ; one from Mrs. Susan Kenyon, of Fulton, N. Y., widow of the late Dr. Pardee ; one from G. O, Pay, and his mother. Mr. Pay is the son of Rev. Gilbert Fay, who died bi this place, about the year 1835. He and his mother are employed as superintendent and matron in the Deaf and Dumb Asylum at Columbus, O. : one from Eugene Pardee, of Madison, Wisconsin ; one from Dr. Samuel Wolf, of Wilmot, Stark county, ( >. AH these writers regretted their inability to attend, and sent their regards and best wishes for the success of all their old friends. After singing Coro-

In the evening, there was quite a large gathering at Dr. Lyman's residence, in response to an invitation from him. The time was spent in visiting, singing after the manner of our fathers, drinking lemonade, &c. The band also added much pleasure to the occasion, by furnishing excellent music.

On Saturday evening, the old and young singers met at the residence of Win. M. Eyles, and had a very pleasant time. The evening was spent in social conversation, singing. &e.

Sunday, May 31 St

The day opened warm, but there was a cool breeze stirring, making the out-door meeting in Loomis' beautiful grove quite pleasant, but it was rather difficult for the speaker to make himself understood. As there was no other meeting in town at this hour, the attendance was very large, probably numbering 2,000 people, the exercises were opened by the reading of the 65th Psalm, by Rev. T. W. Browning, which was followed by singing k* All hail the Power of Jesus' Name;" after which, prayer was offered by Rev. S. C. Goss. After another hymn and some announcements, Rev. Edward Brown preached his memorial sermon, from the 78th Psalm, 6th and 7th verses.

The religious exercises being closed, Judge Allen Pardee again took the chair, and announced the arrival of the time for the leave-taking, and the final good-by of the pioneers and numerous guests.

At this point, E. G. Loomis read a poem, by Mrs. Jennie G. Brown, of Medford, Minnesota, wife of Rev. E. Brown, addressed to the old pioneers, which was well received.

W V Ds Worth Memor I A L.

our hearts. We thank you for the joys you have kindled ; and O may the joys of our meeting* continue to glow! We hope, and believe, you have had a good time ; for to us, we assure you, it has been sublime. And now, as the time for the good-by has come, and each will return once again to his home, may blessings, such as only Heaven can give, be with all the old settlers, as long as they shall live.

This resolution was seconded by E. G. Loomis, and passed hv the audience present, with a perfect shout of acclamation. Also on motion of E. G. Loomis, seconded by Aaron Pardee, a vote of thanks was given by hearty acclamation to Rev. E. Brown, for his address and sermon, to give which he had made a journey of 800 miles.

Come Holy Spirit, Heavenly Dove,*' which was sung by the choir, after which, he read the 145tli Psalm, without the use of glasses, though 84 years old. This was followed by prayer by J. M. Beach, of Chatham. After another hymn, Father Lyman took up the old book of sermons previously alluded to, and turned to an old sermon, the author of which he had heard in his earliest recollections. Mr. E. G. Loomis was called upon to read it, and did so.

J. B. Campbell followed with prayer, and the closing hymn, "Lord dismiss us with thy blessing/' was sung, after which the meeting adjourned.

In the Akron Daily Argus , and the Akron Daily Beacon , are extended notices, portions of which we also give, which will show how the celebration was viewed by those outside of town.

Yesterday was a magnificent occasion for Wadsworth? and Medina county, it was our pleasure to be present, and enjoy and participate in the festive entertainment . W® have reason to believe that it lias excelled anything of the kind that has ever been held in the State of Ohio. Ample provision had been made for the entertainment of the pioneer guests, some of whom came from Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Illinois. The Wadsworth Cornet Band, and Glee Club, all day long* discoursed the sweetest music, and sang in dulcet strains, the most appropriate songs. The procession that formed in the center of the town, under the direction of Capt. Henry A. Mills, Marshall of the day and that moved to Loomis' grove, inside the corporation, was over a mile in length. Hon. Allen Pardee presided, being the oldest gentleman on the stand, but not the oldest settler. Aaron Pardee, Esq., humorously remarked, that' though his brother Allen was the chosen Moses to lead the people forward, he (Aaron) was chosen to be his brother's spokesman. Lev. Edward Brown, of Minnesota, delivered the historical oration, which was not only elaborately prepared, and systematically arranged, but was prolific of thought, full of beautiful sentiment, exceedingly humorous, and crowded with incidents and reminiscences of sixty years.

As it is the intention to incorporate the proceedings of the re-union in hook form, thin address will appear before Jong, printed in that shape.

A note-book, that was printed in 1772, was exhibited, which was sung out of 58 years ago, in Wadsworth. The choir on the platform entertained the vast assembly, by singing out of this antiquated book, a tune called ITolborn.

Benjamin Dean, of Iowa, was introduced ns the first white man who felled a tree in the township. Alonzo Durham wa s the first child born in the township, in 1814. At that tinny during the war of 1812 - 1815, flour was shown to be worth $17 a barrel, wheat $3 a bushel, corn $2. and salt 10 cents a pound. The first fruit plucked, was in 1824. James L. Bedfield, the oldest surviving settler of the county, and a famous wolf-hunter, related his early wolfish exploits.

W A Jds Worth M K Mor Ea L.

E. G. Loomis, in characteristic style, exhibited many antique and rare relics - such as a pitcher, made in commemoration of the opening of the Erie Canal, in 1824; saucedishes, maufactured of glass, at New Portage ; shuttles, for weaving linen and linsey-woolsey; a quaint little jug, presented to the family, about 77 ytars ago ; a wineglass, brought into the country 62 years ago; tumblers, made of horn ; a cow-bell, made in 1770, in Holland, and brought to this country. E. G. Loomis quieted the babies by tingling this old Dutch bell, whose minor-key tones excited curious recollections. An old-fashioned, black profile of Philo French was displayed. An ox-yoke, 55 years old, and intended only for one ox, once the property of Capt. Hinsdale. One ox did their work for several years. A cane, made 90 years ago, also the property of Capt. Hinsdale, the father of Albert Hinsdale ; pewter steam-dishes, shown by Mrs. Henry A. Mills. Powder-horns, made in 1812, now the property of David Wilson. Embroidered linen, bandit work, made by Mrs. A. Dean, 70 years ago ; a cup, from Massachusetts, made in 1817. But in the inventory of relics given, the rarest was that of j* model iron ship, made by Charles Olcott, an ingenious and talented lawyer of Medina. This model, which, is now the property of Judge llosmer, of Seville, was gotten up while Mr. Olcott was a student of Yale College. An English student was attending the same College. The supposition was expressed, that this student carried the idea of this model iron ship, across to England, where it was projected, and from which originated the Great Eastern. At the time of the invention, Mr. Olcott being a rigid, uncompromising Abolitionist, a Democratic Congress would not assist him in prosecuting his work.

A fancy box, made by Indians, and presented to Mrs. Hannah Clark, in Nova Scotia, in 1816; most ingenious pair of smoking-tongs, made in Holland over 200 years ago, the property of Charles Coe, and presented to him by

)iis gran (1 lather ; also a drab broadcloth overcoat, made tor Charles Coe, which he exhibited on his person, to the merriment of all, the young in particular.

E. G. Loomis read an essay, which was written by Mrs. Mary Stearns a pioneer lady, 77 years of age - she being present - and in her essay telling that she had been a member of the M. E. Church 55 years. Next on exhibition, came a copy of the Cle(a)veland Herald , printed on Friday. August 3. 1827 - an antiquated, dingy looking thing, by the side of the present Herald. It contains some curious advertisements - one in particular by Judge Pardee, the reading of which excited laughter throughout the audience. A witty, original poem, was read by Aaron Pardee; also a very fine original poem, by Mrs. Sarah Eastman.

Taking it all in all, this was one of the happiest, liveliest, loveliest, and most satisfactory meetings we ever attended. Four generations were present to enjoy the festivities. But for the presence of white hairs and gray beards, a stranger would have supposed the assembly was composed of young men and maidens. Brave old men - they met in joy, they part in tears.

Early this morning our streets began to fill up with people, and by 10 o'clock the sidewalks were everywhere full. A large number of old pioneers, from all parts of the country, had been coming in for several days, and as they met each other after a long separation, the scenes were often affecting.

At 10 o'clock, the procession was formed, and marched. to the grove, headed by our cornet band. There were one hundred and ninety wagons and carriages in line, and a very large crowd on foot, which, with the number that had

Judge Allen Pardee, the oldest man in the township, and President of the day. called the meeting* to order, and after a song by the choir, prayer was offered by Rev. J. E. Rowe, of Akron. Benjamin Dean, of Iowa, the man who raised the lirstax to subdue the forests of Wadsworth, was then introduced, and gave a brief sketch of his early recollections. and was received with applause. Rev. Edward Brown, of Minnesota, then followed with a well written address, giving the history of the township, historical incidents, biographical reminiscences, &e., in an able manner? recalling many very pleasant, as well as sad recollections* iiis memory is very prolific in the early history of this place, and his pleasant address made it a rich treat to all who were able to hear his voice.

At the close of the address, the basket dinner was announced; and a dinner it was, too. Every place in the capacious grove had its group of friends, surrounding the good things of life, prepared for the occasion, and all enjoyed it in the height of pioneer style.

After dinner, a historical sketch, by Peter Waltz, wa6 read, dating back to August, 1814, when his father's family came to the vicinity, and had a full share of the hardships of those early days.

The history by Mr. Dean was very interesting, as containing many historical facts, connected with the early history of this section of the country. On March 17th, 1814?

Mr. Dean and Mr. Durham built the first house in Wadsworth. At that time, there were blit eight houses between here and what is now Middlebrow, then known as Tallmadge. Akron was then merely a swamp, and but two or three houses were built, where now stands your beautiful city.

The address by Mr. Brown was very fine. The speaker first spoke of his childhood among the woods that stood where now stands our thriving village. Tie thanked the present inhabitants for their welcome to the old pioneers? and then welcomed the pioneers to so happy a meeting. In a very vivid manner, he described the situation of the first settlers, as compared with the present generation. He beautifully pictured the journey of the settler, with his family, from the far East; the great hardships and privations in wandering through the woods, to the far West; the con struction of the rude log cabin; the labor of felling the trees; the tedious way of tilling the soil ; and the infinite number of discouragements, which vexed and harassed our fathers. But the " old folks" w ere not without their good times; the husking-bee, the raising, and the general trainingjfwere as much enjoyed as the genteel party, the ball, and great displays of to-day.

After the Address, each one seemed to equally enjoy the lunch, which was served from overflow ing baskets, at the hands of the generous citizens. Many curious and antiquated specimens of the art of our grandfathers w ere displayed, and a few very interesting letters were read from old friends of the pioneers, who could not be 'with them.

Wadsworth .Memorial

As a fitting addendum to the first day's proceedings, as given in our Friday's issue, it is proper to mention, that on Thursday evening, the spacious parlors of E. G. Loomis, Esq., on South Main street, were, on invitation, filled by both visiting and resident pioneers, and their friends, who in social converse, singing of ancient tunes, &c., made up one of the pleasantest parties ever held in Wadsworth.

This forenoon (Friday) was spent in visiting old acquaintances, and the various points of interest in the vicinity, in the afternoon, according to pre vious announcement, the old people again came together in the Methodist Church, at 3 o'clock, for the purpose of relating and hearing reminiscences of pioneer life, and of having a good time generally.

On motion, Sherman Blocker, Esq., was called to the chair, who after stating the objects of the meeting, and thanking the audience for the honor as well as the pleasure conferred upon him by selecting him to preside over it? called upon Rev. W. McCloud, of Granger, to lead off and most nobly did the "old man eloquent" respond to the call*

Father McCloud is 75 years of age. For many years, he had been praying to get to a better land, though this was a pretty good land alter all. Forty years ago he had attended a quarterly meeting in this very house, though then it was in an unfinished condition, without either pulpit or seats. Fifty-five years ago last winter, he had settled in Granger, having left his father's house with but a single dollar in his pocket, thus literally beginning life in his new home " without money and without friends." Blit acting on the parting advice given him by a godly neighbor, " Mind at all times to behave yourself well," he had endeavored to be a good boy, jocularly remarking, ''perhaps you see it in me now - nearly a hundred years old." Alluding to the soeialties of pioneer life, the speaker said that even now, old as he was, he would dearly love to raise a colony and " go West.** When about leaving borne. Ids wife asked him where he was going. He told her he was going to Wadsworth, to the pioneer meeting. "Yes, to be a child again," said she. He believed in being young - felt that it was "good to be here," and to live over again the scenes of the past - that he had in so large a degree retained his youthful vigor by hard w ork, retiring and rising early, and totally abstaining from intoxicating liquors, tobacco, tea, coffee, and other exciting stimulants. The speaker closed his remarks by asserting his belief that lie should never die - though the body might perish, the nobler part would live forever - and fervently prayed that all present might meet him on the other side of the river.

Deacon N. Ik Northrop, of Medina, 83 years old, was the next speaker. Game to Medina, with his father's family, in 1816. After providing a cabin for his family, tilled with " Love to God, and charity for all mankind," a meetinghouse was projected. On the morning of April 10th, 1816 about 25 or 30 men and boys assembled with oxen and proper implements, on the ground selected for the edifice? Kev. Searles having sent them word that he would be with them to preach at 4 o'clock that afternoon. Setting to work with a will, the ground was cleared, the logs were cut and fitted, the Avails were reared, the floor w as laid, the roof Avas shingled, the seats were prepared, and the sermon was preached at the time appointed. Other interesting church reminiscences were related, indicative of the great good that had been accomplished through those instrumentalities, in shaping the morals of the community.

After a recess of fifteen minutes, Gen. I ). Northrop, 80 years old (brother of the deacon), of Mentor, Lake county, Avas called to the stand. The General, after alluding to the fact that lie had represented Medina county in the State Legislature from 1831 to 1833, expressed a just pride in having cut down the first tree, in 1816, on the spot where the village of Medina now stands. He ilien supposed that location was about the center of the World, and that Medi- na was to bo Me town of the Buckeye State, Though his -'large expectations " had not, perhaps, all been realized " yet the changes that had taken place were truly marvelous. The speaker gave an amusing account of the first wedding in the township - that of his sister - at which every person then living in the township was present, except one - an old lady, who had the rheumatism so bad that she could not come. The refreshments consisted of "white" and *'black" cake, and whiskey-sling stirred up with a pudding-stick ; the merriment being so intense that the guests did not light their torches to go home until 3 o'clock in the morning. Medina county was organized in 1818, and the first court, held in a barn, was presided over by Judge Tod (father of the late Governor Tod), with Judge Brown, of Wadsworth, Judge Harris, of Harrisville, and Judge Weiton, of Richfield, as associates. At this term of the court, there were no cases, and no la wyers, and in the rather " festive " ceremonies, described by the speaker, which took place during the night, after the court had adjourned, the presiding Judge, on being addressed as "Judge Tod," exclaimed, " Don't call me Judge Tod - I am George Tod, until 10 o'clock tomorrow morning."

Rev. M. K. Hard, of Wooster, horu in Wadsworth, in 1818, inquired if anyone knew who was the first child born in the township, and was answered that Alonzo Durham was born in July, 1814, and was still living, in the State of Indiana,

Mr. George Miller, of Akron, formerly of Wadsworth related some incidents connected with the early "jury system " of the county ; how many of the jurymen had to take their provisions with them, and that one man - a Mr. Parsons, of Chatham - on being summoned as a juror, took his cow along with him, and kept her there during the term,

Hon. Myron C. Hills, of Medina, was the next speaker. Referring to the length of time required to perform the journey from Connecticut to Ohio in 1818. when he settled in Granger, lie said that a certain man who then predicted that within fifty years, such improvements would be made in the mode of travel that the journey could be accomplished in a week, was regarded as a visionary, and almost a fool. Now it could be accomplished in a single day. The old times were good times - no caste - all sociable, all happy. But there's a great deal of good in human nature - - as much so now as then - but it takes adversity to bring it out. Mr. Hills closed by inviting all present to attend the meeting of the Pioneer Society of Medina and Summit counties, of which he is President, on the 10th of September next.

Rev. Warner, of Seville, though not a pioneer himself, was the son and grandson of pioneers, and in a brief but eloquent address, paid a glowing tribute to the pioneers of the country, and called upon the present and rising generations to cherish their memory, and emulate their virtues.

Mrs. Hobart, of Cleveland, stated that she had recently called upon Rev. Joseph II. Breck, who preached in Wadsworth in 1824, now living in Cleveland, who wished to be remembered to his old acquaintances present.

Aaron Pardee stated that he had received letters from Aim on and Philander Green, Ira Sprague, of Iowa, Mr Fay, of Columbus, Eugene Pardee, and others, which there was not time to read, but which would be published in the book about to be issued.

Brief remarks were made by President Blocker, Capt* Lyman (84 years old), A. McGregor, of Canton, and others' when, under the lead of Gen. Northrop, as chorister, with Miss Jennie Hard at the organ, the entire audience joined in singing Coronation and Old Hundred, closing with the Doxology, Rev. Edward Brown pronouncing the benediction.

Wadsworth Mf2Mori A L.

The meeting closed with the very best feeling, about half past five o'clock, Dr. Lyman extending an invitation to all present to attend a sociable at his house in the evening.

On Friday evening, pioneers and citizens, to the number of over 500, assembled at the house of Dr. Lyman, under the command of Gen. Northrop, of Lake county, and were marshalled according to their ages, in military line, in a grand review column, when choice music was furnished by the excellent band of Wadsworth, after which the multitude entered the spacious rooms of the house, and devoted themselves to enjoyment, such as was probably never before had by any assembly in the whole county. In the multitude were the oldest surviving pioneers of Wads wort h and Medina county, and children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren were all mingled together, recounting scenes in the history of Medina county, and Wadsworth township, that embraced its history from 1814 down to 1840. It is impossible to enter into details of the re-union. Capt. Lyman acted as host of the house, and he had the rare good fortune of looking at friends and acqaintances* reaching from 1816 down to the present date.

Gen. Northrop organized the older members of the throng into a singing class, and with himself as leader and chorister, had all ages, down to about forty years, as singers, They sang ancient tunes, in an old-fashioned manner^ and I will venture that no better time was ever had by any company than at that old-time singing school. Such a re-union, with so much piety and hilarity, interspersed with anecdotes of three-score years, will probably never he again held in the history of the State.

After hearty enjoyment until near midnight, the company sang "John Brown's soul is marching on," and separated, never to meet again in a similar meeting on this earth.

Saturday was spent in visiting public and private places, and in renewing old memories and scenes of pioneer life in the township and vicinity.

In the evening, a reception was lielcl at Esq. Kyles' house, where another good time was had in a young folks' concert, of the singers of to-day.

On Sunday forenoon, Rev. Edward Brown delivered a memorial sermon, in the grove, to a vast throng. Here the good-by's were said, and many of the pioneers mingled their last tears together in one final embrace. It was a solemn time - enough to melt the most obdurate heart.

In the afternoon, an old-fashioned Deacons' meeting was held in the Congregational Church, presided over by that venerable man, < 'apt. George Lyman, who is the only surviving member left of its organization in 1819.

Here the programme closed, and a final separation took place of the pioneers of Wadsworth, some of whom have to travel nearly a thousand miles to reach their present homes. Many things more might be said of this memorable meeting, but your correspondent must content himself with a simple narration of facts, and leave others to garnish the event in a more detailed account. * * *

The oldest person present was Mrs. Mary Jacobs, one of the first settlers of Norton, who had survived three successive husbands, all pioneer settlers; Nathan Bates, Jotham Blakeslec, and John Jacobs. The next, Wm. Allen, of Akron, aged 86. Among the ladies on the stand, were Mrs Benjamin Tyler, aged 81, Mrs. Lodema Loomis, who taught school in the township, in 1819, and Mrs. Cahow, of one of the first families that settled in the township of Norton, in 1812, and Mrs. Mary Has or, the first white woman married in the township. Among the guests not mentioned in the foregoing notices, were Morris Northrop, Esq., Capt. Austin Badger, Hon. H. G. Blake, Wm. C. Clark, and Martin Snell, of Medina; Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Loomis, of Mentor; Mrs. Ann F. Russell, and Mrs. Eliza Porter, of Cleveland ; Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Chritsie, Mr. and Mrs. M. W. Henry,

Wads Worth Memorial

Ml*, and Mrs. George Weeks, S. A. Lane, B. F. Battles, Edward Brown. Mrs. S. Blocker, Mrs. Almon Brown, Mrs. J. F. Bo we, of Akron; Dr. A. Willey, of Spencer; Dr. Aurelius Agard, of Sandusky ; Mrs. Emily Eastman, Mr. and Mrs. V. G. Eastman, Rev. Y. Noyes, Mrs. Noyes, Albert Munson, A. D. Licey, *J. II. Reese, .J. A. Bell, of Guilford ; Rev. and Mrs. Leonard Brown, D. C. Clifford and wife, Wellington; A. Curtis, Ashland; Arch. McGregor, Canton; B. B. Warner. Massillon; Ilarrv Pardee, North Hampton, Mrs. Elenor Pardee, Madison, Wis.; Mrs. Minerva Utley, Milwaukee, Wis.; Mr. Philo French, Berea; Gurdon Hilliard, Bedford : Homer Johnson, Sharon ; Mrs. Frances Hamlin, Weymouth ; Christian Cackler, Kent; as well as many others, who did not report their names or attendance, who were among the old pioneers of this portion of the State, or had been former residents.

The attempt to organize what is called an *- Old Folks' Concert" in the abundance of preparation had been given up as impracticable, but was more than made up by the one improvised bv Gen. Dutlian Northrop - one ot the pioneers of the county - once a noted singer, still in his eightieth year, retaining his clear voice, and almost the vigor of middle age. Collecting the old singers of from 10 to 80 years of age in a circle, in the large parlor, he stood in the center, with the same tall, erect, commanding figure that forty years ago singled him out even to the stranger as a leader of men, beating time in the old style, leading off in the old fugues, enlivening the whole with his pleasant sallies, and happy hits. Having set old Sherbern on too high a key, to the remark, " General, you'll have to come down," he replied, "No, the General never comes down: however, we'll put the tune a little lower." At the close, a hearty vote of thanks was given to General Northrop, for having afforded to the present generation a real Old Folks' Concert.

iiigs, 60 long kept up twice each Sabbath, in the old log schoolhouses by those old pioneers of Wadsworth's religious history. Frederick Brown, Ebenezer Andrus, William Graham, Benjamin Agard, George Ly man. and Sherman Loomis, no part of the proceedings stirred up the deep fountains of emotion as did the recalling of those scenes once more in their lives, at the Deacons' meeting, held in Bic Congregational Church, on the Sabbath afternoon, conducted by George Lyman, by more than 20 years the last survivor of that band, himself 84 years old

Reading a chapter in the Bible, as in the olden time, and giving out the hymns, without glasses, in the second sight of extreme old age, he handed the volume of sermons - printed in 1797 - that was first used in those days, to Mr. E. G. Loomis - whose father, with his sonorous voice, and rhetorical delivery, was most often called upon to read - and desired him to read a sermon, from Matthew 5 : 13, by I lev. Alexander Gillctt of Torrington, Ct. - his old pastor - "to whom," said the old patriarch, "more than sixty years ago, I went two miles in the night season, to ask, -What shall 1 do to be saved?' "

As the reader, often choking with emotion, read the discourse, and the audience, mostly of aged men and women could recall the voice of the father in that of the son, the buried momories of half a century came up as living realii ties, and the dead and the living seemed once more met together in solemn worship, till each seenfed to feel, like him whose vision connected heaven and earth, "How dreadful is this place ! this is none' other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven." It was an hour of solemn stillness, silent tears falling, or deep emotion breaking forth in the audible sob. as each recalled the pleasing and sad remembrances of other years, and felt that this w as indeed the last revival of their lives' tendercst memories.

Recollections Of An Old Settler

On the first day of March, 1814, Oliver Durham and the writer, Benjamin Dean, went seven miles into the wilder* ness, and made the first beginning in Wadsworth.

My father, Daniel Dean, and my brother Daniel, came two days later. We built a camp, or shelter, by sticking crotches and laying a pole on them, then cut and split planks, or puncheons, and placed them with one end on the pole, and the other on the ground. At night, we built a large fire in front of our camp, and wrapped ourselves in blankets, and lay there with our feet to the fire. The wolves howled about us nearly all night, but did not come within sight. Sometimes they would get still, but if we would make a little noise or increase our fire a little, they* would give us more music. At one time I rapped on a dry tree, and they yelled at the top of their voices. We soon found that they had a line of travel from Wolf Creek to the Chippewa, and that they passed us every alternate night, following the road, until the settlement became so large that they went around it. But they always, in passing, saluted us with a specimen of their music.

We cut and drew the logs for my father's house, 18 by 18? and for Mr. Durham's, 16 by 18 feet. We had our own help, my father, Mr. Durham, my brother, 14 years, and myself, 16 years old ; the rest of our help, seven men, came seven miles. They were Basley Cahow, Jacob Vanhyning (with but one arm), Indian Holmes, Theodore Parmelee? George Hethman, James arid George Cahow, and with this help we raised both houses in one day. We got a roof on my father's house, and all moved into it on the 17th day of March.

At that time there were but eight dwelling-houses between us and Tallmadge Mills - afterwards called Middlebury - which was thirteeen miles distant from our settlement; they were those of Jaekey Cahow, Theodore Farmelee,

W Ads Worth Memorial

Indian Holmes (these all lived where Parmelee afterwards built his brick house), Pliny Wilcox - who lived near the foot of the hill, where Mr. Perkins afterwards built his stone house. Paul Williams and his son Barney - afterwards called Colonel Williams - lived on the hill beyond where Akron now stands, and betwixt there and the Mills, we passed Major Spicer, and Mr. Hasen. (The above was written in Iowa ; I have learned since I came here, to my astonishment, that the tovrn of Akron now not only takes in the Williams farms, but also Major Spicer's, aud the whole of Middlebury). But to return; the sawmill, and the gristmill, made of hewed logs, and three log houses, were all that could be seen where Middlebury now stands. There was a log house, and some land cleared, where old ' Squire Henry Yanhyning afterwards lived on Wolf Creek, and he moved in June, 1814. J[ 23 <^24 There were at that time in the territory at formed into Medina county, including Norton, Copley, Bath, and Richfield, in the 12th range, only twenty families, viz. : five in Norton, three in Harrisville, five in Liverpool, twro in Bath, and five in Richfield. My mother saw no woman but Mrs. Durham until August, and Mrs. Durham saw no woman but Mrs. Dean until October, during winch time she gave birth to a son, the first born in the township. He was called Alonzo ; wras born in July, 1814.

The first store in Middlebury wras opened in July, 1814? in a room of Judge Norton's house, by Peleg Mason. In 1816, he and his brother built a small store-house, and other merchants soon came in. It will be remembered that this was during the war called the war of 1812, aud provisions were closely bought up for the army.

Before harvest, wheat was worth $3 a bushel, flour $17 a barrel, and pork could not be bought at any price. To my knowledge, salt, which had to be brought up in wagons, on account of the British fleet on the lakes, was worth $20

The early settlers of Wadsworth were from the East, and had been accustomed to farm labor. They were a hardy, Industrious class of people, and Avere >rery economical. Their moral character was good, and they were mostly religious. But very few of them had money to pay for their land, and had to buy on credit. Some of them had hard work to support their families till they could raise a crop on their own lands. A very few had money to pay for improvements, after paying for their laud, and this helped the poorer class, as it enabled them to get employment in helping to clear land.

It cost much labor to clear up the land, as the timber was very heavy. This, with their land debts, kept the people embarrassed for a good many years ; but they lived together in peace and harmony. Their general intelligence and literature would compare favorably with the farmers of this day.

At that time there was no school law in the State ; and Avhere they got inhabitants enough together, they built schoolhouses by neighborly liberality, and employed teachers at their own option. Each had to pay in proportion to the number of days he sent to school.

Wc had good schools in those days, and the best society I ever was in. I often think of the meetings we had in the old log schoolhouse, mostly by reading sermons, and sometimes a missionary would come and preach to us.

The land in Wadsworth is mostly, as you know, high and rolling. The land in the Northern part of the township is said to be as high as any in the State. It is certainly as healthful, and naturally as good for fruit, as any in Ohio.