Wakeman Township (part 12 of 21)

Reared amid the scenes and environments of rural life, Frank W. Adelman acquired his education in the district and German schools, while the periods of vacation were devoted to the work of the farm. Upon attaining his majority, he decided to make the occupation to which he had been reared his life work and he has since directed his energies and time to general agricultural pursuits. He has always resided upon the farm where he was born and has continued in the work of improvement and development until he has brought his fields under a fine state of cultivation, the excellent condition of the entire place today attesting the care and labor expended upon it. He possesses good business ability and his energy and close application to work have been the means of bringing to him the prosperity which he now enjoys.

On the oth of October, 1888, Mr. Adelman was united in marriage to Miss Mary Shaeffer, a daughter of George and Angeline (Dehe) Shaeffer. She was born in Peru township, this county, February 26, 1867, and on the of October, 1907, was called to her final rest, leaving besides her husband, six children to mourn her loss, namely: George, Loretta, Emma, Elmie, Herbert and Clarence, all residing at home.

Mr. Adelman holds membership with the Modern Woodman of Norwalk and is also a member of the Catholic church. His long residence in this locality has brought him a wide acquaintance, and he is held in high esteem by his many friends. The fact that he is best liked where best known is an indication of his personal worth. Successful in his agricultural pursuits, he is ranked among the representative members of the German-American element of this county.

Blasius Simon

Blasius Simon who has made his home continuously in Peru township since 1834, covering a period of three-fourths of a century, is the owner of a well improved and productive farm of fifty-eight acres in that township, on which he resides. His birth occurred in Baden, Germany, the 15th of March, 1833. his parents being Conrad and Mary Ann (Krieveler) Simon. 'The year 1834 witnessed their emigration to the new world, the family home being established in Peru township, Huron county, Ohio, where the father purchased a small tract of land and built a log cabin. After clearing the land he gave his attention to its cultivation and improvement and there carried on his agricultural interests throughout the remainder of his life, winning a goodly measure of prosperity in his undertakings. His wife also passed away on this farm, and thus the community lost two of its most respected and worthy pioneer settlers.' Their children were as follows: Seraphine, George and Mary, all of whom are deceased; Blasius, of their review ; Christian ; Anthony ; Andrew, who has also passed away ; and several who died in infancy.

Blasius Simon was but a year old when brought by his parents to the United States and, as before stated, has since continued to reside in Peru township. In early manhood he learned the carpenter's trade and for a number of years was actively and successfully identified with the building interests of the county, erecting a large number of houses and barns. 1862 he purchased his present farm of fifty-eight acres from George Sowers and turned his attention to agricultural pursuits, in which field of activity he has likewise met with success. As the years have gone by he has brought the property under a high state of cultivation and has made many substantial improvements thereon, remodeling the residence, etc. In recent years, however, he has largely put aside the active work of the fields and his farm is now being operated by his son Edward.

On the 4th of June, 1861, Mr. Simon was united in marriage to Miss Kathryn Hills, a daughter of Joseph and Mary Ann (Biddle) Hills, both of whom are now deceased. Mrs. Simon was a little maiden of seven years when she came with her parents to Norwalk township, this county. She was one of ten children, the record of whom is as follows: Helen, Frances, Mary and Jennie, all of whom have passed away; Kathryn; Tracy, who is likewise deceased; Fred; Joseph; and two who died in infancy. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Simon have been born six children. Amelia, living in Ridgefield township, is the wife of Lawrence Smith and has three children: Edward, Anna and Otto. Albert, a resident of Norwalk, wedded Miss Rose Meyer, by whom he has four children: Walter, Henry, Mildred and Fred. Rose is still under the parental roof. George, who makes his home at Monroeville, married Miss Rosella Frey and had five children: Alfred; Reuben; Helen; Hilda, who is deceased; and Norman. Edward, who wedded Miss Emma Frey, lives at home and manages his father's farm. Andrew was called to his final rest at the age of eighteen years.

The different members of the family are all faithful communicants of the Catholic church. Mr. Simon has now passed the seventy-sixth milestone on life's journey and that his career has been at all times above reproach and worthy of commendation is indicated by the high esteem and regard in which he is held by those among whom practically his entire life has been spent. His memory forms a connecting link between the primitive past and the progressive present and he has been an interested witness of the wonderful transformation that has been wrought as pioneer conditions have gradually given way before the onward march of civilization.

William. Henry Snyder

William Henry Snyder, now living retired in North Fairfield, is numbered among the honored veterans of the Civil war and is also classed with those men who in positions of public service have demonstrated their loyalty to the general good by the prompt, efficient and faithful performance of duty. His record is altogether a most creditable one and because of his wide acquaintance in Huron county, cannot fail to prove of interest to many of the readers of this volume.

Mr. Snyder was born in Greene county, New York, on the 11th of January, 1835, his parents being John and Harriet (Watrous) Snyder. His paternal grandparents were Peter A. and Hannah (Wells) Snyder, whose family numbered seven children, namely: John, Henry, Maria, Abram, Peter, James and Jane. Of this number, John Snyder, the father of our subject, was reared, educated and married in the east and unto him and his wife were born five sons and three daughters as follows: William Henry, Hiram, Henry, Maria, Lucy, Vincent, Sylvester and Caroline.

William Henry Snyder spent his youthful days under the parental roof. It was in 1854, that the family came to Ohio, settling at Snyder's Corners at which time William H. Snyder was a young man of nineteen years. He was prepared for life's practical and responsible duties by the educational privileges offered by the public schools and by the thorough business training which he received, under the direction of his father. In early manhood, he took up general farming as a life work and carefully tilled the soil for many years, but at length withdrew from that field of labor and later was busily engaged with official service and also with the duties of the secretaryship of the Huron County Insurance Company, which position he filled for a number of years. He is still the owner of sixty acres of land in Ashland county and that farm returns to him a gratifying annual income.

It was on the 5th of December, 1856, that Mr. Snyder was united in marriage to Miss Hannah Hinkley, a daughter of Benjamin and Maria (Paine) Hinkley, in whose family were the following named: Hannah, Joshua, Mary, Phoebe and William. Mr. and Mrs. Snyder have become the parents of four children: Ida, Lucia, Harry and Benjamin.

Mr. Snyder is entitled to wear the Grand Army button from the fact that he served as a soldier of the Civil war, enlisting in August, 1862, as a member of Company D, One Hundred and First Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He remained with that command until honorably discharged in 1863, when he returned to the north. He has always been as loyal to his duties of citizenship as when he followed the old flag on southern battlefields. His political allegience is given to the democracy and he has served as justice of the peace for a number of terms and as postmaster at North Fairfield for four years. His official service has been characterized by the prompt and capable discharge of his duties, his fidelity to any trust being recognized as one of his strong traits. He belongs to the Masonic fraternity and both he and his wife are connected with the Eastern Star, exemplifying in their lives the beneficent spirit of the craft, which is based upon mutual helpfulness and the recognition of the brotherhood of mankind.

Charles A. Easter

One of the old farms of Greenfield township, Huron county, Ohio, is that on which Charles A. Easter lives. He was born on this place as was his father before him, and the house which is his home was built by his grandfather in 1834. The latter, Archibald Easter, was born in County Tyrone, Ireland, in 1777, and was the son of John Easter, a well-to-do farmer and cloth manufacturer of Berragh, near Londonderry, Ireland. Archibald Easter received a good education and as a young man, was sent to the United States to look after some real estate interests of his father. He could not return immediately upon the accomplishment of his business on account of the War of 1812, and so sought employment Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, as a weaver, a trade he had learned in Ireland. After three years, he was made foreman, but in 181 5, he returned to Ireland. In 1817, however, he came a second time to the United States, landing at New York. He came west by canal and lake to Sandusky, Ohio, and then to the center of the state, locating on a farm near Columbus, which has since been incorporated within the limits of that city. He lived on that place for a few years and then moved to Lower Sandusky, now Fremont, where he bought a farm, having previously traversed on horseback nine states of the Union in search of a homestead. He was compelled to leave Fremont on account of the ague, and in 1819, came to this county, settling first on a farm in the center of Greenfield township, where Robert Arthur now lives, and in 1830, located on the farm now occupied by his grandson. On this land, he farmed until 1860, when he retired from active life. In 1824, he married Miss Rebecca Easter, who was born in 1801 in County Tryone, Ireland, and was the daughter of James Easter. They were united by Elder John Wheeler and became the parents of six children: two who died in infancy; Elias; Sarah, the wife of James McLane; Keziah, who married Samuel Arthur; and John, who was drowned in his youth. Archibald Easter died May 1, 1867, and his wife passed away June 6, 1883, both being buried in the Steuben cemetery. He had helped to organize the whigs of his township and later became a republican. He was a successful farmer and with his wife was a member of the Congregational church.

Elias Easter, his son and the father of Charles A. Easter, was born September 19, 1834, was reared on the farm and attended the public schools of Greenfield township. Shortly before his father's death, he assumed charge of the home place, on which he continued the successful farming. On the 7th of June, 1871, he was married to Miss Jennie E. McMorris, a daughter of John and Nancy Mc- Morris, of Greenfield township, who had come originally from Ireland. Mrs. Easter died November 5, 1876, after having borne two children: Nancy, who died in intancy ; and Charles A., the subject of this review. On June 14, 1888, Mr. Easter married a second time, his bride being Mrs. Marjory Aiken, the widow of James A. Aiken. She was born March 30, 1846, in Huntingdon county, Pennsylvania, and was the daughter of Richard Chilcott. Easter remained on the farm now belonging to our subject until 1892, when he removed to Norwalk, where he died May 5, 1907. He was a stanch republican and held the offices of justice of the peace, trustee, and others in his township. He was a member of the Greenfield Congregational church, in which he held office of some kind nearly all his life.

Charles A. Easter lived on the farm on which he was born until 1892. He received his early training for life in the district schools of the county and upon leaving them spent three terms at Oberlin College, and then attended the business colleges at Sandusky and Norwalk. In the latter town, he worked for five years as clerk and stenographer and then obtained employment in Canton, Massilon and Cleveland. In the fall of 1907, he returned to Huron county to assume the charge of the farm in Greenfield township. It embraces one hundred and eighty-three acres of fine land, which Mr. Easter has brought to a high degree of productiveness. He follows a general line of agriculture and has been more successful than the average.

On the 22d of September, 1901, Mr. Easter was married to Miss Florence E. Bowers, a daughter of Henry F. and Marana (Evans) Bowers, of Norwalk. Both parents were born in Ashtabula county, Ohio, and there were married, but have lived in Norwalk for thirty years. The father, a stone mason by trade, was a soldier of the Civil war and is a member of the local post of the G. A. R. His religious affiliations are with the Methodist church. In his family were nine children: Nellie, who married James A. Whitney, deceased; Fred W., of St. Louis, Missouri; Bertha E., the wife of George Snyder, of Toledo, Ohio; Raymond E., of that city ; Charles E., of Norwalk ; Grace L., the wife of C. H. Baker, of Toledo; Josephine, deceased, who married Ralph Husted; Florence E., now Mrs. Easter; and Eva I., the wife of Harry Thorley, of Norwalk, Ohio. Florence E. was born in Norwalk, and has borne her husband two children: Charles E., born March 5, 1904; and Elizabeth J., born May 8, 1907.

Though so recently a farmer on his own responsibility, Mr. Easter has made the two years tell in his bountiful harvests. The old farm, producing under one family for three generations, has attained a cultivation it never reached before and is a fine tract of land. Mr. Easter is a member of the Masonic Lodge at Norwalk, No, 64, and of the Congregational church, and is a citizen respected in the community, among his fraternal brothers and in his church.

Samuel W. Rowland

Samuel W. Rowland, a well known and respected resident of the village of Wakeman, was born in Clarksfield township, Huron county, Ohio, on the 12th of June, 1839, his parents being Ezra and Ann (Stiles) Rowland. He traces his ancestry back to Thomas and Daniel Rowland, who came to this country from Scotland in the latter part of the seventeenth century, settling Connecticut, Several of their descendants participated in the Revolutionary war. Ezra Rowland, the father of our subject, was a son of Aaron and Deborah (Dean) Rowland, who came from Putnam county, New York, to Huron county, this state, 1818. They left the Empire state on the 10th of October of that year, making the journey in a wagon drawn by two yoke of oxen and one horse, and on the 18th of November, arrived in Clarksfield township, this county. This district was a dense forest, but they found shelter in the log cabin of Captain Husted, earlier settler, in whose gristmill Mr. Rowland was employed for a time. The inmates of the little structure numbered twenty persons and as soon as possible, Mr. Rowland erected a cabin home of his own in the vicinity, assisting in the conduct of the gristmill and in the work of the farm. In 1822, he left the mill and took up his abode on a farm which he had previously purchased. In the family of Ezra and Ann (Stiles) Rowland were seven children, namely: Rebecca and Benjamin, who are deceased; Aaron G., an agriculturist of Clarksfield township ; Lucy and Jairus, who have also passed away; Samuel W., of this review; and Joseph, who 15 likewise deceased.

Samuel W. Rowland was reared on his father's farm and continued under the parental roof until he had attained the age of twenty-one years. He obtained his preliminary education in the district schools of his native township and when twenty years of age, began teaching school At the end of a year, however, he entered Oberlin College and after leaving that institution once more became connected with educational interests as an instructor in the schools of Montgomery county, where he remained until the time of his enlistment for service in the Union army. It was in August, 1862, that he became a member of Company A, Ninety-third Regiment of Ohio Volunteer Infantry, enlisting for a term of three years or during the war. His regiment was attached to the Army of the Cumberland and was with General Rosecrans at the battle of Stone River, where Mr. Rowland was wounded on the 29th of December, 1862, a shot passing through his right ankle and splintering the bone. The wound was so serious that he was compelled to remain in the hospital for sometime and was afterward sent home on a furlough, a year passing before he again joined his regiment. After returning to the army, he took part with General Sherman in all the hotly contested engagements of that campaign and on the 17th of December, 1864, was again wounded, at Nashville, in the battle between Generals Thomas and Hood, being shot in the upper right arm by a minie ball when within sixteen feet of the Confederate breastworks. This also shattered the bones of the arm and after leaving the hospital, he was sent to a Louisville institution to convalesce, but while there was honorably discharged from the army, the war having come to an end. He had proven a most brave and loyal soldier, never faltering in the performance of any task assigned him and returned home with a splendid military record. On again taking up the pursuits of civil life, Mr. Rowland was engaged in farming in Clarksfield township and during the winter months taught in the district schools. He also taught vocal music classes for a number of years during the winter season, being a musician of considerable skill and ability. In 1867, he removed to North Lawrence, Kansas, where he remained for a year and then spent three years in Medina, Ohio, being engaged in teaching during two years of that period. Subsequently, he went to Peabody, Kansas, where he taught for five years in the graded schools, which he had organized. His success as an educator was marked, for he had the ability to impart clearly and concisely to others the knowledge that he had acquired and was moreover an excellent disciplinarian. Returning to Huron county in 1875, he established the family home in Wakeman and has here since continued to reside. He purchased a farm ot one hundred and seventy-five acres, one hundred acres of which was timber land, which he immediately began clearing, cutting seven hundred thousand feet of lumber in two years. The proceeds from the sale of the lumber were sufficient to pay for the entire property. Industrious and energetic, he resolutely set to work to develop a good farm and as the years went by gradually transformed the place into one of the finest and most productive farms in the county. In November, 1895, he took up his abode in the village of Wakeman, where he has since lived retired in the enjoyment of the fruits of his former toil.

On the 4th of July, 1863, Mr. Rowland was united in marriage to Miss Betsy E. Waugh, a daughter of Lansing and Docia (Minor) Waugh. The father was a Baptist minister of Wakeman township, where the family resided for a great many years, both Mr. and Mrs. Waugh passing away and being buried there. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Rowland have been born seven children, as follows: Justin

E., a practicing physician of South Euclid, Ohio; Bertha D., who is the wife of Charles Russell of Wakeman township ; Dennis D., a resident of Cleveland, Ohio; Guy O., who is practicing medicine at East Palestine, Ohio; Park O., likewise living in Cleveland; Lansing E., of Denver, Colorado; and Lewis U., who is a musician of note and makes his home at Grand Forks, North Dakota. All of the children are prosperous and prominent residents of their respective communities.

Mr. Rowland has always given his support to the men and measures of the republican party with the exception of one year, when he voted for St. John, the presidential candidate of the prohibition party. He is a strong advocate of the cause of temperance and an ardent worker in its behalf, believing that the intemperate use of intoxicating liquors is the greatest curse with which our country has to contend. In the spring of 1896, he was elected justice of the peace and with the exception of one term has since served continuously in that office, being the incumbent at the present time. His decisions are strictly fair and impartial and he is widely recognized as a most able and just judge. He has been a member of the school board for two terms and all public improvements, such as the establishment of good schools, roads, etc., receive his hearty support and co-operation. He and his family are earnest and faithful members of the Congregational church, in which he has acted as a deacon for many years. For many years, he was also chorister in the church and, althcugh he has now reached the Psalmist's allotted span of three score years and ten, still sings in the choir and acts as assistant chorister. He is interested and active in church and Sunday school work and in fact in all religious societies organized to promote moral advancement. He still maintains pleasant relations with his old army comrades through his membership in Wilson Todd Post, No. 559, G. A. R., and has served as an officer of the post ever since becoming identified therewith, acting as chaplain at the present time. He has been a delegate to both state and national encampments and is a most enthusiastic and valued member of the organization. In spite of his hazardous and severe experiences as a soldier, Mr. Rowland is still in excellent health, which he attributes in large measure to the fact that he has never used tobacco or stimulants in any form and it is only in recent years that he has indulged even in tea. Although now past the seventieth milestone on life's journey, in spirit and interests, he seems yet in his prime, for he has always associated to a great extent with young people and thus has ever maintained the enthusiasm of his earlier years in all the varied activities and pleasures of life.

William T. Ashton

William T. Ashton, who is now living retired on his fine farm of one hundred and ninety-two acres in Peru township, was born in this township on the IOth of January, 1850. His parents, William and Sallie (Burch) Ashton, were natives of Lincolnshire, England, and New York state respectively, the father's birth having occurred on the 9th of March, 1819. The paternal grandparents of our subject were among the first settlers of Peru township, having made the journey to this part of the state by wagon in 1831. The grandfather erected a log house and resolutely set himself to the task of clearing a tract of one hundred and thirty acres of land which he had purchased, but died within a year of his arrival in this county. His family numbered seven children, all of whom are now deceased, namely: James, Thomas, William, John, Edward, Marv, and one who passed away in infancy.

William Ashton, the father of William T. Ashton, was a lad of twelve years when he accompanied his parents on théir removal to Peru township, Huron county, and there he continued to make his home until called to his final rest on the 17th of March, 1890. In 1866 he purchased the farm which is now in possession of his son, William T., erected a commodious residence and barns and also placed many other substantial improvements on the property. the years passed by he won a goodly measure of prosperity in the conduct of his agricultural interests and became widely recognized as a substantial and representative citizen of the community. His wife, who had accompanied her parents on their removal from the Empire state to Huron county, passed away in 1872 when forty-eight years of age. Unto this worthy couple were born five children, as follows: Mary, who is now deceased; Anna, who is the wife of C. A. Howe and resides at Monroeville, Ohio; William T., of this review ; and Lewis J. and Eva, who are likewise deceased.

At the usua! age William T. Ashton began his education by becoming a student in the district schools of this county. His training at farm labor was not meager, for at an early age he began work in the fields and soon became familiar with the best methods of tilling the soil and caring for the crops. He was successfully and energetically identified with general agricultural pursuits throughout his entire business career but has recently retired from the active work of the fields and now rents his farm. It is a well improved and valuable tract of land comprising one hundred and ninety-two acres and he still makes his home on the farm, having here a commodious and modern residence. His well directed and untiring industry in former years brought him the competence that now enables him to live practically retired, and throughout the community in which his entire life has been spent he is well known and highly esteemed as a most worthy and prosperous citizen.

On the 3d of February, 1872, Mr. Ashton was united in marriage to Miss Emma P. Knoll, whose birth occurred in Ridgefield township, Huron county, in 1856, her parents being Christian and Elizabeth Knoll, of Ridgefield township. The three children born unto Mr. and Mrs. Ashton are as follows: Clara, a graduate of the Zenaium Art School at Columbus, is now the wife of P. W. Clark, who conducts a business college at Louisville, Kentucky. Their union has been blessed with one son, William A. Alice, a graduate of the Monroeville high school, gave her hand in marriage to Professor Oscar Erf, who is professor of the dairy department at the Ohio State University. They reside at Columbus and have one son, Lowell. Myrtle, likewise a graduate of the Monroeville high school, lives at home with her father. The wife and mother was called to her final rest on the 7th of September, 1907, her loss being deeply mourned by an extensive circle of friends as well as her immediate family.

In his political views Mr. Ashton was formerly a democrat and on that ticket was elected to the office of township trustee, in which he served for a number of years. At the present time, however, he gives his allegiance to the men and measures of the republican party, believing its principles to be most conducive to good government. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church at A man of sterling character, he has always merited and received the confidence and respect of all with whom business or social relations have brought him in contact.

The life history of Isaac McKesson constitutes an important chapter in the annals of Huron county. He figured prominently in industrial and political circles for many years, but is now living retired from active business save for the interest which he feels in the world's progress. He represents a family whose name has long been interwoven with the early history of Ohio, the family arriving in this state in 1827, settlement being made in Venice in what is now Erie county. On the paternal side, Mr. McKesson comes of Scotch lineage, his grandfather, John McKesson, a Presbyterian minister, having come from Scotland to America in 1761 and locating in York county, Pennsylvania. He was a typical Scotch Presbyterian, who proved a power for good in the community in which he resided during the early days of the "new world" as America was then commonly designated. He wielded a wide influence by reason of his strict integrity and honorable manhood, while his life at all times measured up to a high moral standard.

His son, Isaac McKesson, Sr., the father of our subject, was also educated for the ministry but his natural taste for mechanics led him to abandon that calling before he had completed his theological course and he later learned the trade of a millwright and civil engineer. Attracted by the favorable location for mills in Venice, Erie county, Ohio, he removed to that place in 1827, where for a number of years he followed his trade of millwright and also did considerable surveying and civil engineering. Later he resided in Bellevue for some years and subsequently purchased a farm near Venice, where he engaged in farming up to the time his death, which occurred in 1854. He had been a prominent figure in the development of the locality in which he resided, aiding very materially in the improvement of milling property, and was recognized as one of the leading and valued citizens of his part of the county. Ere coming to Ohio, he had married Miss Elizabeth Caldwell, and in their family were the following children: Jane; James; John; Oliver; William, who passed away in infancy; William ; Elizabeth and Isaac, all of whom are now deceased with the exception of the last named.

Isaac McKesson, whose name introduces this review, was born in Pennsylvania on the 12th of January, 1821, and was therefore a little lad of six years when he accompanied his parents on their removal to Ohio. Spending the period of his boyhood and youth under the parental roof, he is indebted to the district school system for the educational advantages which he enjoyed. Early in life, after giving careful thought concerning the work for which he was best adapted and which in his estimation would prove the most profitable, he decided to follow in the footsteps of his father, and under his direction and guidance learned the trade millwright and carpenter. This he followed for a few years, at the same time giving considerable time to the management of his father's farming property. He was married on the 28th of October, 1841, to Miss Zorada J. Hunt, a daughter of John and Nancy (Lord) Hunt, natives of New Hampshire, who came to Ohio about 1816, locating in Norwalk, where Mr. Hunt engaged in the cooperage business.

After his marriage, Mr. McKesson located at Enterprise, Erie county, Ohio, where he operated a sawmill for about a year, and then for two years he was engaged in carpentering and was also identifed with agricultural pursuits. Later, he rented a farm near Sandusky, which he cultivated for about two years, and at the same time worked at his trade as carpenter, erecting many houses throughout the community, most of which were constructed of hewn logs. Subsequently, he purchased a farm in York township, Sandusky county, and there he engaged in general farming for six years, when he bought a farm in Groton township, Erie county, upon which he resided until 1866, when he purchased property in Collins, Huron county, to which he removed in 1869 and which he has since continued to make his place of residence. After his arrival in Huron county, he became the proprietor of a sawmill and bending works, his plant being the first steam bending works to be established in that section of the county. He also engaged in the manufacture of force pumps, which were a new feaure at that time, and the fact that Mr. McKesson added to his pump the double action caused his product to be a vast improvement upon that which had hitherto been placed upon the market. The Growth of the business, therefore, was very rapid and soon reached extensive proportions, the enterprise becoming one of the leading and important industries of Huron county. In 1880, however, he sold his interests and practically retired from active life. A man of keen business acumen, during his connection with industrial interests, he so capably controlled his various enterprises that he became recognized as one of the prominent business men of Townsend township. He also possessed considerable real estate, for as the years went by and he prospered, he invested in land, becoming the owner of property interests in Collins and also in Townsend township. For some years, he also operated a sawmill and turning plant upon land which he owned in Michigan, not far from Jackson, but since retirement from business, he has unfortunately lost most of this property.

Not merely because of the success which he won in the business world is Mr. McKesson entitled to special mention in this volume, but also by reason of his deep and helpful interest in the public affairs of the community and the prominent position which he held in local political circles. He is a stalwart republican, and has been very active in the affairs of the party for many years, having been called to various positions of trust by his fellow citizens. He served as trustee of Groton township for eight years, was justice of the peace for three years, township treasurer for two years, served for two terms as county commissioner of Erie county and was offered the nomination for a third term by the unamimous vote of the convention, but declined the honor. He. was also elected trustee of Townsend township, serving for two terms, and in both Erie and Huron counties, he was a member of the school board for many years. He has been a prominent first republican county convention held in Erie county. He called the first republican caucus in Groton township, Erie county, and was a delegate to the convention that first nominated John Sherman for congress, held in Shelby, Ohio. He assisted in organizing the first county fair association in Erie county and was a member of the board of directors, while after his arrival in Huron county, he became a director of the Huron County Agricultural Society, which position he filled for some time. He was likewise active in the movement which resulted in the establishment of a children's home in Huron county and for twenty-two years served as a trustee of the home, eventually resigning his position on account of ill health. Mr. McKesson was also very active in the affairs of Erie county and those of Ohio, during the period of the Civil war. He was commissioned by Governor Tod, lieutenant colonel of the Second Regiment, Ohio National Guard, and was active in securing Erie county's quota of troops. He also made it his duty to see that the families of the soldiers were properly cared for and gave not only freely of his time, but also liberally of his means to provide whatever was necessary for their welfare, thereby manifesting to some extent the spirit of philanthropy that underlies his nature.

the years passed the home of Mr. and Mrs. McKesson was blessed with two children: Lester and Nancy E. The daughter is now Mrs. George Liles, of Collins. The son, when only eighteen years of age, at the first call for troops enlisted on the 8th of April, 1861 as a member of the Eighth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served for a term of three months. After his discharge, he immediately re-enlisted for three years, and throughout that period, he served with distinction, participating in more than seventy battles and skirmishes. He was thrice wounded, at Fredericksburg, later at Gettysburg and again at the battle of the Wilderness. The last wound was at first thought to be mortal but he recovered. He was promoted from a private to the rank of lieutenant and the records show that he was a brave and courageous officer, remaining at all times loyal to the old flag and the cause which it represented. After the close of the war, he returned home and entered business life, being now engaged in the real estate business in Toledo, Ohio. He is a man of high character, who stands well in his community and is a worthy son of an honored father.

Mr. McKesson was called upon, in the fall of 1878, to mourn the loss of his wife, and in March, 1880, he was again married, his second union being with Mrs. Harriet (Reese) Emmerson, the widow of Henry Emmerson. She, too, passed away on the Ist of July, 1886, and for his third wife, Mr. McKesson chose Mrs. Rebecca (Balliet) Van Buskirk, whom he married on the 1st of November, 1887. She is the widow of Samuel Van Buskirk and a daughter of Henry and Catherine (Montz) Balliet, of Richland county, who originally came from Pennsylvania and were prominent farming people,

Mr. McKesson and his family have held membership in the Methodist Episcopal church for many years, he having been a member of that denomination for more than seventy years. During his connection therewith, he has been very active in church work and has held every office in the church below the clergy. He has been especially active and helpful in the direction of Sunday school work, having organized and assisted in maintaining various Sabbath schools where none had previously existed. Mr. McKesson is a great humanitarian at heart and has ever been a stalwart supporter of those measures which serve to promote general progress along material, political, intellectual and moral lines, and also to uplift and maintain a high standard of citizenship. He is a splendid type of the highminded American gentleman and an excellent example of the power and force of honorable manhood, of earnest effort and of high principles. He has now reached the eighty-eighth mile stone on life's journey and he can look back upon the past without regret and upon the futüre without fear.

August Scheid

August Scheid, who has long been numbered among the most enterprising, energetic and successful agriculturists of Peru township, is the owner of a rich and arable tract of land of one hundred and forty-four acres. He is à native son of Huron county, his birth having occurred in Peru township on the 26th of October, 1858. His parents, John William and Catherine (Beilstein) Scheid, were both natives of Germany, the former born on the 9th of January, 1818, and the latter in 1826. In 1849 the father accompanied his parents on their emigration to the new world, the family home being established in Peru township, Huron county, Ohio, where both the grandfather and grandmother of our subject passed away. John William Scheid, the father of August Scheid, continued to make his home in Peru township until called to his final rest on the 30th of November, 1903, being successfully identified with general agricultural pursuits throughout his active business career. He assisted in the organization and erection of the Lutheran church in Peru *ownship and served as one of its elders for a number of years. His wife, who had made the journey to the new world in company with her sisters and brothers, was called to her final rest 1885. Unto this worthy couple were born six children, namely : Elizabeth, who is the wife of Charles J. Heyman and resides in Lyme township; August, of this review ; Henrietta, who makes her home with her sister, Mrs. Hass, in Sherman township; William C., living in Peru township ; Catherine B., residing in Sherman township, who is the wife of George C. Hass; and L. H., of California.

In the district and German schools of his home neighborhood August Scheid obtained his education and when not busy with his text-books assisted in the work of the home farm, thus early becoming familiar with the line of activity which he later chose as a life occupation. He is now devoting his time and energies to the cultivation and improvement of a farm of one hundred and forty-four acres in Peru township, ninety-five acres of which he received from his father, while the remaining forty-nine acres were purchased by him from the Lewis Hoffman estate. As the years have gone by he has placed many substantial improvements on the property and annually reaps bountiful harvests which find a ready sale on the market. He likewise has charge of the Heyman Milling Company's interests at Pontiac, buying grain, etc.

On the 21st of February, 1882, Mr. Scheid was united in marriage to Miss Amelia Heyman, a native of Sherman township and a daughter of George W. and Elizabeth (Longscheid) Heyman, of Sherman township. Unto Mr. and Mrs.

Scheid have been born ten children, as follows: George W., who is a teacher in the Ohio Normal University at Ada ; Estella, who is the wife of Fred Linder, of Townsend township; and Walter, Dora, Arthur, Herbert, Edwin, Ralph, Alfred and Harvey, all of whom are still under the parental roof.

Politically Mr. Scheid is a democrat and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, have called him to various positions of public trust. He has served as township trustee for seven years, was justice of the peace for three years and in 1890 acted as real-estate appraiser of Peru township. He has likewise been a member of the school board, the cause of public education ever finding in him a stalwart champion. The Lutheran church of Pontiac numbers him among its most active and helpful members and he has served in various official capacities therein, In the community where they have spent their entire lives both he and his wife are most widely and favorably known, the circle of their friends being almost coextensive with the circle of their acquaintances.

Louis Erf

Louis Erf, who is extensively and successfully engaged in farming and dairying, is the owner of the Hickory Dairy Farm, comprising a tract of two hundred and thirty acres of rich and productive land in Peru township. It was on this place that his birth occurred, his natal day being July 28, 1866. His parents, Philip and Dorothy (Heyman) Erf, were both natives of Germany, the former born in 1832. When a young man of twenty-one years Philip Erf came alone to the new world and, securing employment as a farm hand, was busily engaged in the work of the fields for several years. Believing that the United States afforded broader opportunities than could be obtained in his native land, he then sent for his parents, Jacob and Kathryn Erf, and his two brothers, Anthony and Jacob, all of whom took up their abode in Huron county, Ohio. When he had accumulated sufficient capital, Philip Erf, the father of our subject, bought a small tract of land in Peru township and as his financial resources increased added to his holdings by additional purchase until at the time of his death he owned more than five hundred acres. The prosperity which he enjoyed was the direct result of his untiring and well directed labor and he was recognized throughout the community as a most successful, enterprising and representative citizen. He served as school director and township trustee in Peru township and also held other positions of public trust, ever discharging his official duties in a prompt and capable manner. His demise, which occurred in January, 1894, was the occasion of deep and widespread regret, for his upright and honorable life had gained him the kindly regard and friendship of all with whom he was associated. His wife was but a little maiden of twelve years when she crossed the Atlantic to the United States in company with her parents, William and Johanetta Heyman. She still survives at the age of sixty-nine years and now makes her home with her son, Louis. Her other children are as follows: William, who is a resident of Lyme township; Lydia, the deceased wife of A. P.

Louis Erf obtained his education in the schools of Monroeville, Ohio, and after his father died took charge of the old homestead farm, which has since been in his possession and which has remained his place of residence from his birth to the present time. It is one of the finest farming properties in the entire county and the commodious and substantial residence thereon was erected by his father in 1867, but he has since made many improvements in the way of modern conveniences. His place is known as the Hickory Dairy Farm and in the conduct of both his agricultural and dairying interests he has met with a highly gratifying and commendable measure of success, being a man of sound business judgment and unfaltering energy. He was one of the promoters of the Star Creamery Company at Monroeville and is now a member of its board of directors as well as one of its stockholders. He is likewise the president of the Farmers & Citizens Bank of Monroeville, one of the promoters and stockholders of the Hess Hardware Company of that place and a director and stockholder in the Perfect Silo & Cement Company of Sunbury, Ohio. Possessing excellent executive ability and keen discrimination, his cooperation has been sought in the management and control of various other concerns and he has gained wide and favorable recognition as a leading and respected resident of his native county.

On the 10th of February, 1897, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Erf and Elizabeth Henninger, a daughter of Jacob and Kathryn (Spatz) Henninger, of Monroeville. By this union there are three children: Philip, Clifford and Dorothy.

In his political views Mr. Erf is a stalwart democrat and has served as school director in Ridgefield township, while at the present time he is treasurer of Peru township. Fraternally he is identified with the Masonic lodge at Monroeville, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Evangelical church. His life is exemplary in all respects and he has ever supported those interests which are calculated to uplift and benefit humanity by his own high moral worth. What he undertakes he accomplishes, for he possesses resolution, perseverance and reliability, and these qualities have caused him to be enrolled among the best citizens of this part of the state.

Edward Mushett

Edward Mushett, engaged in agricultural pursuits in Ridgefield township, Huron county, Ohio, was born upon the farm on which he now resides April 18, 1871, a son of Alexander and Jane (Harpster) Mushett. The former, who was born in New York in 1825, came to Ohio when a young man in company with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Mushett. The family home was established in Ridgefield township, where Alexander Mushett spent the rest of his life, devoting his time and attention to the occupation of farming. He was a democrat in politics and gave stanch support to that party. His wife was a native of Ridgefield township and a daughter of Philip Harpster and she passed away at an early age, leaving three chil- dren to mourn her loss, of which number Edward, of this review, was the youngest. Frank, the eldest, resides at Monroeville, Ohio, and Nellie, who married Fred Hohler, lives on a part of the farm operated by Edward Mushett. husband is at present mining in the gold fields of Alaska. After the death of his first wife Alexander Mushett wedded Jemima Simmons and both are now deceased, the former passing away January 12, 1907.

On the farm upon which he was born Edward Mushett was reared to manhood, acquiring his education in the district schools and assisting in the work of the fields. He has never followed any other occupation than that of farming nor has he had any desire to engage in any other line of business inasmuch as he has been most successful in his agricultural pursuits. He now owns a third interest in the home farm upon which he resides. It consists of one hundred and forty-four acres of land, which was originally cleared by his father, who also placed all of the improvements upon the place.

On the 24th of October, 1900, Mr. Mushett was united in marriage to Miss Anna Enderle, a daughter of Charles and Louisa (Kerris) Enderle, of Groton township, Erie county, Ohio, and unto them have been born three children, Leona, Clifford and Ellen, all at home.

Mr. Mushett belongs to the Lutheran church and he also holds membership in the National Protective Legion. He is highly esteemed throughout the community by reason of his genuine personal worth and sterling traits of character. He is public-spirited in citizenship and always lends his aid on the side of reform, progress and improvement, while he stands inflexibly for truth and justice on all occasions.

Ambrose Frayer

The man to whom above all others the village of Greenwich owes its progress and the excellence of its municipal improvements and also its financial prosperity, is Ambrose Frayer. This public-spirited citizen was born in Greene county, New York, in the Catskill mountains, July 7, 1820, and is a son of Isaac and Charity (Leming) Frayer, who came with their family to Huron county, Ohio, in 1832, and engaged in farming. "They had seven children: Ambrose, Loren, Philea Ann, Elliott, Earl, Amanda and Evaline, all of whom grew to maturity, though Ambrose and Evaline are the only ones who have survived to the present, The father died in 1889, at the age of eighty-three, outliving his wife by twenty years, she having died at the comparatively early age of forty. They were a highly respected couple, for they possessed many sterling traits of character.

Ambrose Frayer grew up at home and remained under the guidance of his parents until he was twenty-one years of age. He received his education at the little log country school and by reading at home in the chimney corner, with a hickory torch for a light. These were not large opportunities for winning a knowledge of books men, but even as a boy he was a great reader, and through his association in later years with persons of high education has become a man singularly well informed upon matters of general interest and competent to render discriminating and good judgment. When he attained his majority he left the parental roof and engaged in farm work for others by the month. He soon was able to buy a tract of wild land, which he cleared, and to this kept adding until he had a farm of two hundred acres. He was successful from the start, and this place was but the nucleus of the six hundred and forty acres which he afterward possessed, all excellent land. For a number of years, in addition to his farming he raised fine thoroughbred horses and was about the first to introduce full blood merino sheep into Huron county. In these lines, as in agriculture, lie prospered well, and he became known throughout the state and elsewhere as the breeder of roadsters of the finest quality. Upon both sheep and horses his judgment was often eagerly sought. Always alert to see the possibilities for improvement, he patented a fanning mill and a gate, the rights to manufacture which he sold in other states, thereby reaping a considerable amount. He established a factory for the making of the fanning mills at Plymouth, which was successfully conducted for a number of years. At the same time he engaged in general farming and the success of one seemed never to be gained at the expense of the other.

His interests in the welfare and advancement of Greenwich are just as numerous and have borne just as profitable returns. The size of the village and business conducted there demanded a local bank and Mr. Frayer was foremost in the organization of the Greenwich Banking Company - the first bank established there. It was incorporated under the banking laws of the «tate of Ohio, with a capital of twenty-five thousand dollars, Mr. Frayer being vice-president at the time of its organization, and at one time president. Later he severed his connection with that bank and assisted in the organization of the First National Bank of Greenwich, with a capital of fifty thousand dollars, becoming vice-president, which position he has held to the present time, in this way having a guiding hand upon its affairs. It has been a very successful institution and has always been conducted along conservative lines. His other important commercial interest is that of the Greenwich Creamery Company.

As both township trustee and treasurer he served the people for a number of years, and for a long period was a member of the village council. While filling the latter office he proposed and carried to completion many municipal improvements of which the residents are now very proud, though in the beginning they opposed such progress. Itowes its splendid water system and electric lighting plant to his agitation and also the brick paved streets. In short he has always stood for advancement and better conditions.

Mr. Frayer has been married twice, his first wife being Miss Adeline Lee, a daughter of Benjamin and Mary (Smith) Lee, of Huron county. Of this union there were born five children : David O. ; Luella, deceased, the wife of Samuel Kelso of Mussell Fork, Missouri; Eugene; Mary, now Mrs. Arthur T. Burnell; and Lina, who married Dr. Harry Fulstow, of Norwalk. Of these Eugene is a lawyer in New York city, and Mr. and Mrs. Burnell are prominent educators. Mrs. Frayer died September 19, 1874, and Mr. Frayer married Mrs. Lucy A. Mickey, the widow of Thomas Mickey. She passed away March 26, 1901. Appreciating from his own lack of it the value of a fine education Mr. Frayer has given his children the best that could be obtained, and they have all made excellent use of the advantages thus put within their reach. They are well established in life, and all are progressing in their various vocations.

Mr. Frayer has always been a very active man and at the age of eightynine, he retains his interest in public affairs and looks after his business concerns as he has for many years past. He still owns a fine farm of four hundred acres, although Mr. Nelson Van Aken, who has been in his employ for twenty-six years, superintends it. In the fraternal organization to which he belongs he is also active. He was one of the charter members of the Greenwich Lodge, No. 543, F. & A. M., and has held all offices in the blue lodge. He is also a Royal Arch Mason and has been connected with the order for fifty-three years. In religious matters he gives his support to the Congregational church and has always been intimately identified with the affairs of that body. In short, to sum up the results of his many years, no man has wielded a broader influence for good and progress than has Mr. Frayer. If the good health of the past is vouchsafed him in the future - an idea of which may be gained from the fact that he has never found the need of glasses for even the finest print - there is every reason to look for the extension of this influence.

William E. Joiner

William E. Joiner, who has the distinction of being the oldest assessor in Greenfield township and in fact in Huron county, was born in the house in which he now lives, September 8, 1839, and is the son of Azias and Philura (Newberry) Joiner. The father was born July 20, 1797, in Colerain township, Hampshire county, Massachusetts, where his father, William Joiner, was a schoo! teacher. In the spring of 1818 he came to this county from Cayuga county, New York, having made the greater part of the journey on foot. He bought a tract of two hundred and fifty acres in Greenfield township and in 1825 returned to Connecticut to obtain the deed to his land. He came back immediately and made this farm his home until his death. In 1831 he married Miss Philura Newberry, who for almost half a century was his companion on the highroad of life, enduring the hardship of living in an uncleared forest, for Mr. Joiner had much work to do before he could cultivate his land. Unto them were born three children: William E., of this review; Wallace O., born March 22, 1842, a resident of Hillsdale, Michigan; and Mary, who was born January 5, 1844, and died October 1871. She was the wife of Watson T. Smith, also deceased. Mrs. Joiner was called to her final rest December 29, 1887, and her husband followed in a little more than a year, his death occurring May 16, 1889. He was a man of fine education and a great reader, who had ever evinced a fondness for mathematics. He was a public-spirited man as well and had heid the office of township trustee. In the affairs of life he had prospered, through hard work, careful attention to details, and good management.

William E. Joiner has lived on his present farm all his life. He was permitted a longer school period than many youths of the country can enj oy, for he was twenty-three before he discontinued his lessons. He took a course in double and single entry bookkeeping tor he had looked forward to entering the commercial world and winning success and a reputation as an accountant. It was his father's wish, however, that he return to the farm and conduct its affairs - a wish in which the son acquiesced. He has been fortunate in his agricultural experiments, his fields are models o£ careful cultivation and his crops reveal what hard work may do. He has also entered into the life of the township. He is known as the oldest assessor of Huron county having been first elected thirty years ago on the republican ticket. He has since served sixteen years, and on the occasion of one election received all but one of the votes cast in his township.

On the 14th of September, 1865, Elder Hahurst pronounced the words that made William E. Joiner and Miss Emma L. May man and wife. The ceremony was performed at North Fairfield, Ohio, and the union has been blessed with two children: Erminnie L., born March 17, 1867, became the wife of Charles H. Swigard, a civil engineer, who has charge of the irrigation improvements in the state of Washington, but she died June 26, 1801. They have one child, Minnie L., who lives with her grandfather, William E. Joiner. Hattie, the second daughter, married E. H. Bouten and lives at North Fairfield, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Joiner have also reared a niece, Dessie, the daughter of Watson F. Smith, who is now married to George Trimmer and lives at Peru, Ohio.

Mr. Joiner is a member of the Congregational church and takes a prominent part in its work. A man of ability and unquestioned integrity, he has won a place in the hearts of the residents of his township, as was attested by the fact that there was but one dissenting vote at his election to the position he has held so long, and in fulfilling the duties of which he takes such a pride.

William Hamilton McPherson, Sr., a prosperous and progressive agriculturist of Bronson township, where he owns a farm comprising one hundred and sixty-one acres of land, was born in Greenfield township, Huron county, Ohio, on the 14th of June, 1842, his parents being James and Jane (Arthur) McPherson. The father was born in Scotland in 1814 and in early life accompanied his parents, Mr. and Mrs. William McPherson, on their removal to Londonderry, Ireland, but a few years later the family came to this country, locating on the farm in Bronson township, Huron county, Ohio, where our subject now makes his home and where his grandfather died. His father, James McPherson, became a resident of Greenfield township and lived there until his death. In his family were three sons: George, John and William H. Our subject's maternal grandparents were John and Mattie (Easterly) Arthur.

William H. McPherson, of this review, remained a resident of his native township until he came into possession of his grandfather's old homestead in Bronson township in 1888, living here continuously since. He is now the owner of one hundred and sixty acres of rich and productive land, to the cultivation and improvement of which he devotes his time and energies. In the operation of his farm he displays practical and effective methods which produce good results, as seen in the abundant harvests which he annually gathers.

Mr. McPherson has been married twice, his first union being with Miss Lucy Wheeler, a daughter of John Wheeler, by whom he had three children: Arthur,

William H. and Scott. Fcllowing the death of his first wife he was again married, on the 29th of June, 1881, his second union being with Miss Margaret Mutch, whose birth occurred April 28, 1861. parents, Samuel and Elizabeth (Davidson) Mutch, were natives of Scotland and, emigrating to America about 1858, first located in Canada but subsequently crossed the border into the United States. By his second wife Mr. McPherson has two children, namely: Clyde, born in 1883; and Glenn, who was born in 189o.

Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. McPherson has given his support to the men and measures of the republican party and is at present serving as a trustee of Bronson township. Fraternally he is identified with the Maccabees, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church at Olena, Ohio. In the county where he spent his entire life, now covering a period of more than two-thirds of a century, he has gained an extensive circle of warm friends by reason of his upright and honorable manhood.

Philip Herner

Philip Herner, numbered among the successful and enterprising agriculturists of Peru township, owns a half interest in the farm oi one hundred and eightyseven acres on which he resides with his brother Fred. He was born in Sherman township, Huron county, Ohio, on the 12th of December, 1862, his parents being Phedius and Lena (Hilderbrand) Herner, both of whom were natives of Germany. In early manhood the father crossed the Atlantic to the United States and took up his abode in Sherman township, this county, where he made his home throughout practically the remainder of his life, devoting his attention to the cultivation of a farm of eighty acres which he had purchased. His demise occurred in Peru township in 1905, when he had attained the age of sixty-eight years, while his wife was called to her final rest in 1904 at the age of sixty-seven years.

Their union was blessed with thirteen children, the record of whom is as follows: Mary, who is the wife of Christ Bauman and resides in Indiana ; Margaret, who gave her hand in marriage to Lawrence Linder, of Peru township ; Phedius, living in Peru township; Emma, who is deceased; Philip, of this review; Elizabeth, who is the wife of George Schild and makes her home in Peru township; Kathryn, the wife of Charles Schild, who likewise resides Peru township ; William, of Monroeville, Ohio; Jacob, who has passed away; Minnie, who is the wife of Albert Heyman, of Sherman township; Charles, living in Greenfield township; Fred, who wedded Miss Minnie Herbin, by whom he has two children, Gilbert K. and Arthur F.; and Lottie, who is also deceased.

Philip Herner spent the first ten years of his life in Sherman township and obtained his education in the district and German schools at Pontiac. Since the age of ten years he has made his home in Peru township and has always followed agricultural pursuits as a means of livelihood. The farm of one hundred and eighty-seven acres which he owns in partnership with his brother Fred was purchased by them from their father and they have brought the property under a high state of cultivation and improvement, Alert, enterprising and progressive, they have met with a well merited measure of prosperity in their farming operations and have gained favorable recognition as representative and substantial citizens of the community. The brothers belong to the Lutheran church at Pontiac and their honorable and upright lives have made them well worthy the regard which is uniformly accorded them.

M. C. Price needs no introduction to the readers of this volume for he is at the head of the Norwalk Piano Company, one of the leading commercial institutions of the city of Norwalk. Moreover he is a worthy and honored representative of one of the oldest and best known families of this part of Ohio. He comes of a family of English-Welsh descent and the sterling qualities of the founder have been reproduced in the descendants. The Prices and Hatfields are supposed to have laid out the city of Baltimore, Maryland, and in 1664, Christopher Price leased Price's Commons, now an important part of the city, for ninety-nine years. He afterward exchanged his lease of land for a horse which he mounted and rode over the mountains to Lexington, Kentucky, where he reared his large family. His descendants have never sought to figure prominently in public life, but have been of the solid and substantial men and women of their various communities where they have acquired good homes and won honorable names. Of this family, Governor Price, the founder of Leesville, Ohio, is a representative. When on a visit to Pennsylvania, he met Miss Sarah Rippeth, who afterward became his wife. They returned to Lexington, Kentucky, and to them were born the following named: Kit, William, James, John, Joseph, Basil, Joshua, Benjamin, Linda, the wife of John N. Adair, a merchant and hatter ; Anna, the wife of Dr. Lawthers; Mrs. Sarah Smith; Elizabeth, who became the wife of Dr. Watkins; and Mrs. Rebecca Brisbin. In about 1812, Governor Price rode on horseback from Lexington, Kentucky, and spent the night in a log cabin where the cemetery is now located. He bought a tract of land and returned to Lexington and when he again came to Ohio made his way up the river to Steubenville, a sparsely settled town. He was accustomed to hard work and immediately commenced the task of felling the trees and building a log cabin but the primitive home was soon afterward replaced by a brick dwelling. The family made their linen from the flax which they grew and their sugar from the maples in their camp. Governor Price was a farmer, but much of his time was spent in clearing land. He laid out the town of Leesville and at a public dinner the lots were sold at auction. In early manhood, he became a member of the Baptist church, but afterward united with the Universalist church and always took an active part in its meetings. He lived a life of usefulness and died honored by all. His sons settled principally near Leesville, although a few of the family went west.

James Price of this family was born at Lexington, Kentucky, November 17, 1799. He came up the river with is father, Governor Price, in a rowboat when about two years old and when they stopped for dinner, he was left on the bank and was not missed until they were several miles up the stream when the family returned for him. As a boy, he assisted in clearing up the land and afterward, learned the cabinetmaker's trade, becoming an expert workman. On the 14th of June, 1821, he married Miss Mary Holmes, a daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth Holmes. She died October 2, 1865, and James Price afterward wedded Mrs. Gartrell. Mr. Price lived to see cities established where forests stood and the few friendly Indians disappear before the advancing modern civilization. He was born when Ohio was still a territory and lived to see many states added to the Union. His life was spent in honest industry and was fraught with many good deeds and characterized by kindly assistance to others. He embodied in his life the truth of Christianity without its forms and won the respect and good will of all who knew him. His children were: Clun, Sarah, Elizabeth, John, Susan, Samuel E., Bazaleel, Isaac T., Rezin, James C., and Meredith C.

Of this family, Clun Price was born April 2, 1822, acquired a common school education and took up the study of medicine with Dr. Smith, of Moorefield, Ohio. He was afterward graduated from the Cincinnati Medical College and successfully practiced his profession. He married Linda Hines and located at Birmingham, Ohio. Their children were: Meredith C., Galen, John, Will, Tude and Linnie. The sons all became connected with the drygoods trade. In politics, Mr. Price was a republican and he was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Sarah Price, the eldest daughter of James Price, was born November 3, 1823, and was a lady of many excellent traits of character. On the 20th of April, 1843, she became the wife of Amos Carr, a teacher, surveyor and merchant, who was a natural leader among men and had influence, because of his personal worth and ability. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Carr were born the following named: Lorin, Ermina, Annie, Ada V., Lish and Lou. Of this family, Lorin was born in 1851, and he displays many of the sterling traits exhibited by his worthy father. After acquiring his education, he turned his attention to merchandising and later completed the study of law and was admitted to the bar, but abandoned his profession to accept a clerkship in the Ohio house of representatives. Later he became connected with the railway mail service. In November, 1875, he married Lillian Hunt and they had a family of two sons and a daughter. Ermina Carr, the second child of Mr. and Mrs. Amos Carr, was born February 2, 1856, was accorded good educational advantages, and in 1871, became the wife of Alfred Canaga, of the United States navy, who was formerly professor of naval tactics at Cornell University, Utica, New York, but is now deceased. They have one son, Bruce. Annie Carr, born October 25, 1858, married C. M. Rippeth, a successful and popular merchant, and has one child, Mina. Ada V., born December 24, 1859, was educated at the public schools of Baltimore, Maryland, at Scio College, and the Valparaiso (Indiana) Normal, from which institution, she was graduated. She was no less esteemed for her educational attainments than for her splendid womanly qualities, and has made an excellent record as a teacher. Lish Carr, born May 15, 1865, attended the Leesville schools and later was graduated from Campbell University at Holton, Kansas. She married W. F. Holmes, a farmer near Leesville. Lou Carr, born April 24, 1867, was graduated from the public schools of Clinton, Missouri, winning honors in scholarship, and on the 22d of October, 1888, she married A. D. Walker, an attorney of Holton, Kansas.

Susan Price, a daughter of James Price, was born August 20, 1825, and died October 16, 1855. life was characterized by many noble qualities and kindly acts which endeared her to all who knew her.

Elizabeth Price, the next member of the family, was born January 17, 1827, and became the wife of Ecton Roby, but both are now deceased. Their children were Maud, the wife of Webster Heron, a prominent business man of Columbus; Eva, the wife of Charles Wheaton, of South Bend, Indiana; and Merritt.

John Price, another son of James Price, was born October 12, 1829, and became a millwright. When a young man, he went west, secured employment at Taylorville, Illinois, and soon formed a partnership in the milling business. He has deveioped an extensive enterprise, his trade extending over several states. His wife bore the maiden name of Hattie Cogle.

Samuel E. Price, the next member of the family, born October 31, 1831, was educated in Hopedale College and afterward engaged in teaching school for a time and then read law with Judge Hance, of New Philadelphia. He married Miss Carrie Smith, principal of the New Philadelphia schools, and removed to Clinton, Missouri, to practice law. In his profession, he has shown marked ability, attaining high rank among the lawyers of that locality, while he and his wife have been active in educational work. He has been chosen and served as president of the board of education of Clinton.

Dazalcel Price, born October 8, 1833, was educated in the common schools and began clerking for his brother-in-law, Amos Carr, at Leesville, while later, he became proprietor of the store, being regarded for many years as the leading merchant of Harrison and Carroll counties. In business matters, he was a man of strict integrity, never weighing any act in the scale of public opinion, and his career was at all times useful and honorable. He was a strong abolitionist, who did valuable service in the anti-slavery cause and became an enthusiastic republi- but supported Horace Greeley 1872, and afterward voted the democratic ticket. On August 7, 1856, he married Jennie Burr, a daughter of the late Dr. Joseph S. Burr, and they had three children, Orrin, Wendell and William. Of these Orrin was born February 24, 1859, and was married October 30, 1879, to Clara Finney. For years, he was in charge of one of the departments of the Joseph Horner Dry Goods Store, of Pittsburg. His brother William, born April 8, 1866, occupied a similar position with Giddings Brothers & Bent, of Colorado Springs. Wendell, born April 15, 1860, was graduated from the Northern Ohio University, August 28, 1883, and in 1889, married Florence Head, an accomplished musician and graduate of the same school. Wendell Price became well known in educational circles as principal of the Leesville schools.

James C. Price, son of James Price, Sr., was born November 15, 1835, and when eighteen years of age learned the mason's trade and as a contractor, built various churches, schools and public buildings. In 1859, during the Pikes Peak gold excitement, he with three others from Leesville, started for the gold fields and at Kansas City, bought an outfit for the trip. There they connected themselves with a wagon train of fourteen teams and seventy men and after a journey of seven weeks reached Denver, which at that time contained little but a government postoffice. Proceeding on their way to Colorado Springs, they met thousands of prospectors, who were devising all kinds of means whereby they might return to the states. Of the party of seventy, only four remained. Mr. Price with a young man from Vermont, opened up a claim in what was then called Russell's Gulch, where they worked five men at two dollars and a half per day and board. Mr. Price spent his time prospecting between Mountain City and Pikes Peak and to the head of the Arkansas river. In the fall they returned to the states for winter quarters, again returning to the mines as before. In 1861, James C. Price returned to Ohio and in 1862, enlisted in the Forty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry. At the close of the war, he did contract work in Cadiz, Uhrichsville and New Philadelphia. He married Miss Martha English, of Mastersville, and afterward became proprietor of the United States Hotel at Leesville, Ohio. His children are: Burdell, Neva, De Forest and Fay.

Judge Isaac T. Price, a brother of James C. Price just mentioned above, was born November 27, 1837, and after acquiring a good literary education took up the study of law, was admitted to the Ohio bar, and afterward removed to Holton, Kansas, where he soon found clients and friends. His ability being of a high order, he easily won election three times to the office of probate judge. He has a family of four daughters: Effie, Ella, Myrile and Floy.

Rezin Price, born February 26, 1840, learned the woodworkers trade and for a number of years engaged in the furniture business and undertaking, but later entered the employ of the Edna Piano & Organ Factory, at Monroeville. He enlisted in the Union army and met all the hardships and privations of military life. He married Miss Jennie Kail and they became parents of three daughters and two sons: Effie, Pearl, Merritt, Orlo and Marie.

Merideth C. Price, born May 25, 1846, another son of Clun Price and the immediate subject of this review, was two years old when adopted by his grandfather, James Price, Sr. Under his care, he was reared to manhood. He was still pursuing his education when, constrained by a spirit of patriotism, he put aside his text-books and offered his aid to the government in February, 1864, enlisting when a boy of seventeen years as a member of Company A, Eightieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was made a drummer boy and what he lacked in years he made up in valor and loyalty, sharing with the other soldiers in the many hardships of war, particularly the famous march to the sea. At the close of the war, July 8, 1865, he received his discharge and when he returned home resumed his education as a student in Mount Union College, where he remained until 1867, when he assumed the management of the drygoods store, owned by his uncle, B. W. Price. He remained with his uncle until 1874, and then established business on his own account as proprietor of a jewelry and music store. A year later, he bought out a stock of general merchandise and carried on business in the old Millisack corner until the fall of 1878, when he purchased the Crawford corner and thereon erected a model business block at a cost of nearly ten thousand dollars. Seeing the advantage of a newspaper, he established the Times and later on also published the Plaindealer from the Times office. On the 5th of December, 1890, he sold his stock to A. F. Kail and became the largest stockholder and also the manger of the Edna Piano & Organ Company, of He figures as one of the best known men of Leesville and contributes in large measure to the enterprise and upbuilding of the town, as well as to his individual success. He became the most extensive real-estate owner of the town, making investments from time to time property, and paying more than double the of any other citizen. For twelve years, he remained in active connection with the Edna Piano & Organ Company and then established business in Norwalk, opening a piano and organ store in the Williams block on West Main street, under the name of the Norwalk Piano Company. He brought to the development of this enterprise the same spirit of determination, industry and keen discernment that had promoted his success in former years, and was soon at the head of one of the most important undertakings of this character in his section of Ohio. His store was fitted up as a handsomely furnished parlor, containing easy chairs, divans and tables, large mirrors and many beautiful pictures. The rooms contained also a large stock of pianos of many makes, including the Chickering, Kimball, Ivers & Pond, Corl, Wisner, Boston, Nelson, Haddorff, Weaver, Krell, Winter, National, Lagonda, Foster, Royal and Ropelt. He also carries a line of the best known makes of piano players, together with all kinds of string and wind instruments, and a large line of music and musical sundries. The establishment is altogether attractive in its appointments and the kind of goods carried and the business has reached extensive and profitable proportions. His trade now amounts to about seventy-five thousand dollars annually and the business not only covers the state of Ohio, but extends into almost every state in the Union. It has been developed along modern lines of trade and commerce and is permeated at all times by a spirit of undaunted enterprise and of unfaltering perseverance, which are essential factors to success.

Mr. Price has always figured quite largely in the public life of the community. Many times, he has been elected to offices of trust and sometimes the contest has been spirited, yet he has never been defeated. He is not only a favorite with the voters, but with all who know him, including his associates in business and his friends in social life. He is a good conversationalist with marked persuasive powers, to which his success as a salesman has been largely due. His business career shows him to be a man of undaunted energy, capable of despatching an astonishing amount of business and inspiring his employes with the same enthusiasm which he manifests. While not all days have been equally bright, he possesses the adaptability that has enabled him to use each situation to the utmost in his efforts to attain honorable success, and frequently, he has thus been enabled to turn threatened failures into victories. It is characteristic of him that he has always been warmhearted, generous and liberal, often accommodating others at a sacrifice of his own interests, and it has been truthfully said of him that no man was ever refused a favor when it was within his power to grant it. These qualities have won for him the admiration of all and his life record also displays many acts of kindness and benevolence. His nature is by no means self centered for he looks at life from the standpoint of a broad-minded man, who recognizes and utilizes his opportunities, not only for promoting his own interests, but of doing good to others. It has been truthfully said of him that he never tried to crush a rival, but only to obtain legitimate leadership, and he has extended a helping hand on many occasions to those who were traveling the same road as himself. For many years, he was regarded as a central figure in business circles of Leesville, becoming equally prominent in Monroeville, and has now won for himself a place

Mr. Price is pleasantly situated in his home life. He was married November 14, 1901, to Miss Florence C. Canby, and unto them have been born three children: Meredith Canby, whose birth occurred February 20, 1903; and Charles Kenneth and Florence Emma, twins, born on the 1st of October, 1905. Mr. Price took deep interest in the Norwalk Centennial celebration, which was made a homecoming week, on which occasion, the men and women from all parts of the country returned to Huron county to again visit the scenes among which they had formerly lived. On the day which was set aside especially for Monroeville, the band from that town gathered in front of the store of the Norwalk Piano Company, playing several selections in honor of Mr. Price, who with his characteristic hospitality, then invited the entire number to a dinner at the Avalon. This was an expression of his warm heart and the open handed qualities which have endeared him to his fellowmen in strong ties of friendship.

Joseph Hohler

Joseph Hohler, well known in Huron county by reason of his former connection with mercantile interests and his present connection with agricultural affairs, lives in Peru township, where he owns ninety-nine acres of land. He was born in Pontiac, Peru township, on the 14th of March, 1856, his parents being Frederick G. and Catherine (Zipfel) Hohler, both of whom were natives of Germany. When fourteen years of age Frederick G. Hohler accompanied his parents on their emigration to the United States, the family home being established in Peru township, Huron county, Ohio. Here they purchased a tract of one hundred and twenty acres of timber land and for the first few years after their arrival in this county lived in a barn. This part of the state was still largely wild and undeveloped but they resolutely faced the hardships and privations of pioneer life and their labors proved an important element in the work of early development and upbuilding.

Frederick G. Hohler, the father of Joseph Hohler, passed away in 1866 at the age of forty-six years. His wife was also called to her final rest in the same year, havirg attained the age of forty-two. She had likewise made the voyage to this country in company with her parents, who located at Monroeville, Huron county. Peter Hohler, a brother of Frederick G. Hohler, passed away in Peru township at the venerable age of ninety-five years. He was a stalwart adherent of the democracy and on that ticket was elected to the offices of assessor and township trustee, the duties of which he capably discharged for a number of years. Unto Frederick G. and Catherine (Zipfel) Hohler were born seven children, namely: August, a resident of Monroeville; Peter, who is deceased; Agnes, the wife of Mathew Gable, of Berea, Ohio; Frances, who died at the Cleveland Sisters' Home, was a sister of charity, known as Sister Martin; Joseph, of this review; Leo, who lives in the old homestead in Peru township; and Fred, who is in Alaska.

In the acquirement of an education Joseph Hohler attended the district and German schools of Peru township, where he has resided from his birth to the present time. During his early life the family lived in a log house and on many occasions he would wake up in the morning to find several inches of snow on his bed. In early manhood he was engaged in the meat and liquor business at Monroeville for a number of years but throughout the greater part of his business career has been actively and successfully identified with general agricultural pursuits. About 1876 he bought his present farm of ninetynine acres from Mr. Fitz and has since been engaged in its cultivation and improvement. At the time it came into his possession the only buildings on the place were an old house and barn, but as the years have gone by Mr. Hohler has made a number of substantial improvements which stand as monuments to his thrift and enterprise.

On the 15th of February, 1878, Mr. Hohler was united in marriage to Miss Frances Meyer, a native of Tiffin, Ohio, and a daughter of Samuel and Agetta (Hipp) Meyer, both of whom are now deceased. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hohler have been born eleven children, as follows: Lucy, living at Monroeville, who is the wife of John C. Wilhelm, by whom she has three children - Milton, Vernon and Charles; Mamie, who is at home; Henry, a resident of Hunts Corners, who wedded Miss Mary Heater and has one child, Agnes; Lena, who is the wife of Rover Derringer, and lives in Ridgefield township; Edward, residing in Michigan, who married Miss Carrie Cook, by whom he has one child, Opal; Tillie, Peter and Clarence, all of whom are still under the parental roof; Josiah, who passed away at the age of five years; and Clemons and Celia, who are also at home.

In his political views Mr. Hohler is a stanch democrat and has served in the position of township school director, the cause of education ever finding in him a stalwart champion. He is a faithful communicant of the Catholic church and fraternally is identified with the Knights of Columbus at Monroeville. He is now in the prime of life and enjoys to the fullest measure the many advantages afforded by the present day and, being progressive, and a man whose life has always been in keeping with high standards, he justly deserves the confidence and respect which are uniformly accorded him.

Irving J. Brooks

Irving J. Brooks, the editor and owner of The Greenwich Enterprise, was born April 15, 1857, in Bronson township, Huron county, Ohio, and is the son of Franklin and Ann Eliza (Kennedy) Brooks, both of whom were natives of this county. The mother's ancestors came from the north of Ireland, but the father traced his to England, and counted among them several men who had plaved an important part in the history of this country from the earliest days. William Brooks, the greatgrandfather of the subject of this sketch, was a direct descendant of Lord Brooks of England, some of whose progeny came to America and held grants of land near the mouth of the Connecticut river, where the Say-Brooke fort of history, built to protect against the encroachments of the Dutch traders who claimed the territory, was situated. William Brooks was graduated from Yale College with honors and entered upon the profession of teaching, which he followed for thirty-three years. During the Revolutionary war he served as quartermaster and took part in the battles of Bunker Hill and Stillwater and was a member of that sturdy band who brought about Burgoyne's surrender. After the establishment of the Union he was commissioned by the government to survey on the Western Reserve, and Huron county, Ohio, lay within his field of operation. On completing his work here, he returned to Vermont to bring his family to the new country. They arrived in 1817 and settled in Greenfield township, Huron county, after having'made a trying journey of many days with an ox-team. The entire land was at that time covered with forests, in the midst of which the family settled, and which they immediately began to clear for the purpose of making a home. William Brooks was married, January 5, 1775, to Miss Keziah Haskell, who bore to him seven children.

Lemuel Sprague Brooks, the grandfather of Irving J. Brooks, was born in Windsor county, Vermont, October 29, 1806, and was ten years of age when his parents came to Ohio. He was a man of excepticnal muscular power and carried off the honors wherever athletic sports were in favor. He married, at the age of twenty-seven, Miss Almira Adams, of North Fairfield, Ohio, who bore him two children, Franklin and Esther. Five years after this union he passed away, in 1838.

Franklin Brooks was born in Greenfield Huron county, Ohio, January 13, 1834. He grew up to be a man of fine mind, a farmer, and one who wielded no inconsiderable influence in his community. On the rst of November, 1855, he was united in marriage to Miss Ann Eliza Kennedy, of Bronson, Huron county, by whom he had four children: Irving J., Gardiner A. Frank A. and Anna E. Frank: lin Brooks died December 11, 1897, but his wife still lives.

Irving J. Brooks was reared on the father's farm, was educated in the country schools, going thence to the Lebanon National Normal School, and to the normal school at Ada. For several years after completing his education he pursued the profession of teaching during the winter months and was both progressive and popular in this vocation. In the office of the Norwalk Chronicle he learned the printer's trade, with which trade he ever since has been closely connected. He left the Chronicle office to go to Cherokee, Iowa, as foreman of the Journal where he worked until 1885, when he went to Mankato, Minnesota, to fill the position of foreman on the Mankato Journal. Three years later he came to Greenwich, Huron county, Ohio, where he assumed the editorship and proprietorship of the Greenwich Enterprise holding it to the present. It isa weekly publication of influence in the homes and in affairs generally of the village and township. It professes an independent republican attitude in matters of political concern, but is an organ that makes for the good and progress of the community that supports it, and during the twenty years that Mr. Brooks has guided is destinies, has won for its owner and publisher the good will of his constituents. Not only does he own the paper and the printing plant and building, but he also conducts an up-to-date printing business. Yet these things do not consume all his time, for he has been able to devote a good deal of it to the service of the public. For a space of fifteen years he served as clerk of the township and of the township board of education for an equal period. He has also been a member of the school board of the village and also clerk for a number of In politics he is a republican and has been the Greenwich member of the Huron coun-

On April 15, 1886, Mr. Brooks was united in marriage, at Cherokee, Iowa, with Miss Lydia R. Ruggles, who was born in Waverly, Van Buren county, Michigan, August 21, 1865, a daughter of Charles P. and Henrietta C. (Hobart) Ruggles. Her father's people pride themselves on their blood, being an old family. Her mother was of Puritan descent, tracing a direct line of ancestry to John Alden and his wife Priscilla. Mr. and Mrs. Ruggles never became residents of Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Brooks are members of the Episcopal church, but as there is no place of worship of this denomination in Greenwich they attend the services of the Methodist Episcopal church, in whose work and interests they have taken large part, Mr. Brooks having been for a number of years a member of the board of trustees, at present filling the office of president of this body, and having been superintendent of the Sunday school for a number of years, and his wife taking equally efficient interest.

Mr. Brooks belongs to a large number of organizations, fraternal, social, and such as are connected with his profession as journalist and printer. He was a charter member of the Forest Lodge, No. 145, Knights of Pythias, of Norwalk; is a member of Greenwich Lodge, No. 543, E. & A. M., in which he has filled many offices ; also of the New London Chapter, No. 110, R. A. M.; and of the National Union. He is on the roll of members of the Audubon Society of Cincinnati; of the International Typographical Union of Toledo; of the Buckeye Press Association; and of the Sons of Temperance, of Norwalk. He was formerly a member of Company G, Sixteenth Ohio National Guard, from which he holds an honorable discharge from service. In his private life, in his public activities, and as the editor of a paper that is a factor in the village, Mr. Brooks wields an influence that is refining, elevating and educational, one too that is widely felt in the community. Mrs. Brooks is well known in the social gatherings of the village, and the home over which she presides is one of the most attractive and modern of those here.