Wakeman Township (part 13 of 21)

Arthur Underhill

Arthur Underhill, a resident of Norwalk, is a railway mail clerk in the employ of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad. He was born in Ridgefield township, Huron county, Ohio, on the 6th of March, 1867, a son of Isaac and Lydia (Gregory) Underhill. The father, a native of Herkimer county, New York, accompanied his parents, David and Mary (Osborne) Underhill, on their removal to this county in the year 1817 David Underhill, the grandfather of our subject, became the owner of considerable land in this vicinity and operated the first sawmill in the county. He had first visited this section of the state in 1810 in order to locate land and subsequently made several more trips to Huron county, doing quite a little trading with the Indians. In the construction of his sawmill, which was built in 1815, he employed the services of nearly all the men in the county at that time. He also assisted in laying out the town of Norwalk and was a charter member of the Masonic lodge at that place, which held some of its first meetings in his home.

One of his daughters, Harriett, who was the first white woman to be married in Ridgefield township, became the wife of Major Strong, in whose honor Strong's Ridge was named. When David Underhill was called to his final rest in 1844 the community mourned the loss of one of its most worthy and respected pioneer settlers, whose labors proved an important factor in the work of early development and upbuilding.

Subsequent to the demise of his father, Isaac Underhill continued to operate the sawmill until 1879 and remained a resident of Ridgefield township from the time of his arrival in this county until he passed away on the 15th of March, 1885, in the faith of the Baptist church. His wife, who was a devoted and faithful member of the Presbyterian church, was called to the home beyond on the 1st of October, 1907. Unto this worthy couple were born five children, as follows: Isaac M., who is deceased; Isabelle F., likewise deceased, who was the wife of Arthur Sprague, by whom she had one child, Kathryn B.; Edwin, who wedded Miss Myrtle Husted and has a son, Roy; Arthur, of this review; and a daughter who died in infancy.

Arthur Underhill obtained his education in the schools of Norwalk and after putting aside his text-books took up his abode on the home farm, where he continued to reside until 1893. In that year he entered the railway mail service as a clerk on the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad. but at the end of six months was transferred to the Big Four Railroad, his run being from Cleveland to Cincinnati. Subsequently he was transferred to the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad, in which position he has remained to the present time, his run being between Cleveland and Utica, New York. He is the owner of a well improved and productive farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Ridgefield township, also owns some property in Norwalk and is altogether a most prosperous, enterprising and progressive citizen of his native county.

In December, 1884, Mr. Underhill was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Mahler, a daughter of John and Elizabeth Mahler, of Ridgefield township. The three children born of this union are as follows: Clarence, who married Miss Gertrude La Reau, of Monroe, Michigan, lives on his father's farm. He has one son, James A. Clara, twin sister of Clarence, is a graduate of St. Luke's Hospital and is now a trained nurse of Cleveland, Ohio. Jennie is still under the parental roof. Mr. Underhill is well and favorably known throughout the county in which his entire life has been spent and in the development and progress of which both his father and grandfather bore an important part.

William Boehler

William Boehler, who is now living retired in an attractive and comfortable home in Monroeville, Ridgefield township, was for many years identified with agricultural interests of Huron county. He was born in Lyme township, this county, on the 29th of December, 1852, a son of John Philip and Margaret (Seible) Boehler, both natives of Germany. The father, whose birth occurred on the 7th of November, 1823, came to the United States when twenty-six years of age, coming di- rect to Ohio, where he located in Huron county. Upon his arrival here he was entirely without funds and was compelled to work by the month in various places throughout the county. His was a determined and energetic spirit, however, and by hard labor and careful saving he had accumulated, after three years, sufficient means to purchase a farm of eighty acres located in Lyme township. After a year he sold this property and purchased one hundred acres in Sherman township. Three years later he also sold this farm and removed to Peru township, where he bought land from George Turner, one of the oldest farmers in this county. He resided upon this farm for about forty-one years, actively engaged in agricultural pursuits, and then retired from business life, removing to Bellevue. He remained in the latter place, however, only about two months, and then took up his abode in Monroeville, where his remaining days were spent, his death occurring May 3, 1897. He had been most successful in his undertakings and became recognized as one the extensive land owners of this county, his property holdings at the time of his demise amounting to eight hundred acres. He was also well known among local democratic ranks, serving as township trustee, school director and road supervisor of Peru township. He was also an active worker in church circles and assisted in erecting the Lutheran church at Pontiac and during his connection with that church was almost continuously in office. He wedded Margaret Seible, who was born in 1830 and came ta Huron county with her parents when twenty-one years of age. Here she passed away on the 22d of June, 1883. In the family of this worthy couple were six children, namely: William, of this review; Henry; Minnie, the wife of John P. Meyers, of Ridgefield township ; Louise, the wife of Charles Heyman, residing in Peru township; Philip, a farmer of Peru township, residing on the old homestead ; and Otto, whose sketch, in connection with that of his brother Henry, will be found elsewhere in this volume.

William Boehler, whose name introduces this review, was reared on his father's farm and has continued to make his residence in this county. He acquired his education in the district and summer schools. He remained at home, assisting his father in the cultivation of the fields, until he attained manhood, when he started out in business on his own account, operating a farm which he had received from his father. He had early become familiar with the best methods of plowing, planting and harvesting and, energetic and persevering by nature, he at once bent his energies toward the development of his property. He made a large number of improvements on the place, which consisted of one hundred and thirty-two acres of land in Peru township, erected substantial outbuildings and installed all the modern equipment and accessories necessary to facilitate the work of the farm. It is now one of the finely improved farms of the township. He operated this place for about thirty-two years and his close application to business and his excellent management at last brought to him a substantial competence which enabled him to retire from active work, and, renting his farm to his son, he removed to Monroeville, where he purchased some property and where he now makes his home.

On the 4th of January, 1877, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Boehler and Miss Mary Heyman, a daughter of William A. and Janette (Mohr) Heyman, who were both old settlers of Huron county. The birth of Mrs. Boehler occurred June 25, 1854, in Lyme township. The home of Mr. and Mrs. has been blessed with eight children. The eldest, Louisa, is the wife of Charles Scheid and resides in Sherman township. By her marriage she has become the mother of four children, Mable, Ada, Marian and Olive. August L., who was born August 6, 1879, married Anna Meyer and lives on the old homestead farm, which he operates for his father. He is serving as school director of Peru township and is also a trustee of the Lutheran church. Anna, who wedded Alvin Groff, died on the 6th of September, 1908, at the age of twenty-seven years, leaving besides her husband one son, Morris, who resides with our subject. Minnie, the fourth in order of birth, passed away on the 8th of May, 1904, at the age of twenty-one years. Amanda, who married Henry Meyer, resides in Ridgefield township. Edith and Carl are still at home, while Elmer, the youngest of the family, passed away at the age of four months.

Mr. Boehler is one of the prominent members of the Lutheran church at Pontiac, of which he is serving as elder and in the work of which he is deeply and helpfully interested. He is a stalwart democrat in political allegiance and on that ticket was elected township trustee, in which capacity he served for ten years. He was also school director for some time, the cause of education finding in him a stalwart champion, and he has also been elected to fill various other minor offices. Publicspirited in his citizenship, he readily lends his influence to all matters which have for their object the material, political, intellectual and moral advancement and upbuilding of the community. His life has been one of continuous activity in which has been accorded due recognition of honest labor, and he stands today as one of the substantial and prosperous representatives of his native county, while his genuine personal worth and sterling traits of character have gained for him a high place in the esteem and regard of his fellowmen.

Rev. T. F. Hildreth is numbered among those to whom the spirit of youthful energy and enthusiasm clings while time passes by and may, therefore, be termed "eighty-two years young," for while he has covered more than eight decades since starting upon the journey of life, in his interests he seems a man yet in his prime, his cheerful word, ready smile and encouraging sympathy making him popular alike among young and old, rich and poor, in his home town. He has resided continually in Norwalk since 1885. He was born in Tompkins county, New York, November 29, 1826, and was the third son of Benjamin and Susan (Colegrove) Hildreth, both of whom were natives of the Empire state. 1833 the family home was established in Huron county, Ohio, where the father died September 20, 1852, at the age of fifty-eight years. His wife survived him until March 15, 1855, and passed away at the age of sixty years. They had a family of nine children, four daughters and five sons.

The Rev. T. F. Hildreth was but seven years of age when they came to Huron county and in the district schools of the early day he pursued his preliminary education. He also assisted in clearing and cultivating the old home farm until nineteen years of age, being busily employed at the task of cutting down the trees, grubbing up stumps and preparing the fields for cultivation. He after- ward studied for two terms in the old Norwalk Academy and throughout his entire life he has remained a student and a broad reader, thus gaining wide general information as well as thorough and accurate knowledge of the teachings of the church. Rev. Hildreth was but eleven years of age when he was converted and when a youth of sixteen he united with the church of his father, thus becoming identified with Methodism. He felt called to the ministry but before he had fully decided to enter upon a career of that character he took up the study of law under the direction of the Hon. Samuel T. Wooster of Norwalk. He had not completed his law studies, however, when he was licensed to preach as a local minister of the Methodist Episcopal church and was received on trial in the north Ohio conference at Bellefontaine on the 22d of August, 1851. He occupied several important charges prior to 1864 when he was transferred to the New York conference and assigned to the pastorate of the Trinity Methodist Episcopal church on Thirty-fourth street. There his health failed and he resigned in 1867, in which year he returned to the northern Ohio conference. Here his health improved and he was given charge of the Methodist Episcopal church in Norwalk, remaining as its pastor for three years when by the special request of the church at Ionia, Michigan, he was transferred to that place. He held three appointments of three years each but his health again gave way and he returned to Norwalk. Later he again entered into active relations with the northern Ohio conference and was again appointed minister of the Norwalk church, in which capacity he served for three years. He next had charge of the Lorain Street Methodist Episcopal church in Cleveland but after one year he severed his connection with the conference and took charge of the People's Tabernacle church at Music Holl, an undenominational organism composed chiefly of those who desire to do gospel temperance work. There he remained for two years when upon the death of its founder and patron, Hon. W. H. Doan, he retired to his quiet home in Norwalk where he has since remained.

In 1863 the Ohio Wesleyan University conferred upon the Rev. Hildreth the degree of Master of Arts and in 1887 the degree of Doctor of Divinity. His ability as an orator made him greatly sought for at church dedications and on other special occasions. He had few equals in the pulpit or on the public platform and was purely an extemporaneous speaker. While well versed in all branches of learning, his style is simple and concise. He learned to think along classical lines but to speak in the language of the common people and it has been the power of the truth of his utterances clearly, forcefully and cogently presented that has made strong appeal to his hearers. He is a fluent writer and a poet of no mean ability. He has written many poems of merit which he has published in two volumes, bringing forth his Poems of the Heart in 1903 and Poems of the Home in 1907. These collections contain many gems and have been very warmly received by the press and the people. His views of life have ever been sane and rational, presenting a clear understanding of the conditions òf the present time as well as the ideals presented in the Christian religion.

In 1849 Dr. Hildreth was married to Mrs. Eudolphia C. Cherry, who was to him a genial and loving companion and helpmate until she was called from his side by death on the 3oth of August, 1900, leaving the Doctor to finish his journey alone. He is a remarkably well preserved man despite his eighty-three years, bright, genial and cheerful, of noble character, active in mind and body. He is a splendid example to the rising generation of what a clean, temperate and Godly life will do. Among his fellow townsmen he is very popular and his words and work are yet a matter of strong influence among those with whom he is daily brought in contact. His work has been far-reaching in its effects and like the echoes which "roll from soul to soul" will "live forever and forever," for the seeds of truth and righteousness never die but bring forth fruit throughout all the ensuing years.

E. L. Beelman, who is well known in the business circles of Huron county as the secretary and treasurer of the Beelman Manufacturing Company of Chicago, Ohio, has been active in its affairs since its inception and by his excellent business ability and keen sagacity has been a potent factor in its continuous and rapid progress. He was born in Richmond township, Huron county, on the 4th of May, 1867, a son of Joseph and Eliza Ann (Moore) Beelman, farmers of that township. The father, who originally came from Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, where his birth occurred, settled in Richmond township, Huron county, where he purchased two hundred acres of land, which he continued to operate up to the time of his demise. He became a prominent figure in the public affairs of that township, having during his residence therein filled all of the township offices, while he was county commissioner for two terms, and served as justice of the peace for several years. He also taught school fcr some time in Huron county, and in politics was a stalwart republican. He passed away May 4, 1883, at the age of sixty-four years, while his wife survived until 1887. In their family were nine children, namely: George, of Columbus, Ohio; W. S. and H. M,, both of Chicago, Ohio; Jennie, the wife of Ed. Tanner, residing in Fairfield township; J. L., in partnership with his brother; E. L., of this review ; Charles, who is engineer on the Toledo & Ohio Central Railroad; Sarah, who passed away at the age of eighteen years; and Anna, who also passed away when fourteen years old.

Reared upon the home farm, E. L. Beelman acquired his education in the district schools and until seventeen years of age remained under the parental roof, assisting his father in the operation of his farm. Then thinking to find other pursuits more congenial and profitable than agriculture, he learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed for a number of years. In 1902 he and his brother, J. L. Beelman, organized the present Beelman Manufacturing Company, with five stockholders and a capital of twenty-five thousand dollars. The other members of the board were C. B. Tudor, J. W. Sheidley and Glenn Tudor, while the officers were J. L. Beelman, president, J. W. Sheidley, vice-president, and E. L. Beelman, secretary and treasurer. In 1907 the firm increased its capital to fifty thousand dollars, with twelve stockholders, while the present officers are J. L. Beelman, president, William Glick, vice-president and E. L. Beelman, secretary and treasurer. The board of directors consists of J. L. and E. Beelman, Ed. Weaver, J. W. Sheidley and William Glick. The company does a general lumber business, manufacturing all kinds of house furnishings and patent step-ladders, and from its inception has been signally successful, enjoying a rapid and continuous growth. The efforts of E. L. Beelman have been influential elements in its successful control and he has gained a high place among the progressive and prosperous business men of this district.

It was on Christmas day of 1889 that Mr. Beelman was united in marriage to Miss Estella Keesy, a daughter of John H. and Margaret (Johnson) Keesy, pioneer settlers of Richmond township where Mrs. Beelman was born and reared. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Beelman were born three children, Letha, Fay and Laura, the eldest daughter, Letha, having graduated from the Chicago (Ohio) high school with the class of 1909 and now attending Athens Normal school. Mr. Beelman is trustee of the Chicago Lodge, No. 748, I. O. O. F., while in his politics he gives his allegiance to the republican party, although the honors and emoluments of public office have no attraction for him, as he prefers to direct his entire energies to the conduct of his personai affairs. He is preeminently a business man who has worked his way up by indefatigable energy and untiring perseverance, while, aside from the success which he has won in business, his personal characteristics are such as have gained him the respect, confidence and good will of his fellowmen.

Hon. C. P. Venus is the chief executive of Norwalk, whose mayoralty record has been characterized by public-spirited devotion to the general good and by retrenchment in useless expenditure and the advocacy of progressive measures of improvement. At a crisis in the city's history, he proved himself equal to the emergency and with keen insight into the situation, met the conditions and instituted measures which were the salvation of Norwalk.

His birth occurred in this city, March 6, 1853, and he comes of German ancestry. His father, Sebastian Venus, was a native of Germany and while living in that country, learned the trade of a silversmith and jeweler. After coming to the new world, he established his home in Norwalk and here engaged in the jewelry business. From the Black Forests of Germany he imported the first clocks sold in Huron county and was a leading factor in the early commercial development of this part of the state. He married Elizabeth Amend, a native of Germany, who came to America with her parents during her early girlhood days. Mr. and Mrs. Sebastian Venus had a family of seven children, five of whom died in 1854 between the 4th and 7th of August, being carried away during the cholera epidemic of that year, the dread disease largely devastating Huron county. The surviving sister of our subject is Mrs. Rosie Fischer, a resident of Toledo, Ohio.

C. P. Venus was reared in this city and at the usual age became a pupil in the Norwalk public schools. He afterward attended St. Mary's Academy at Dayton, Ohio, and, making his initial step in the business world, he became a clerk in a shoe store, where he was employed for a few years. He then joined his mother in the grocery business, in which they continued for a number of years, and then sold out, Mr. Venus at that time becoming connected with the Taber Dry Goods Company. He was thus associated until elected city clerk, in which position he was continued by a re-election for four years. He was next made deputy postmaster, serving in that capacity for four years, and for a similar period he was in the railway mail service during President Cleveland's first administration. At the close of his term as deputy postmaster, he took up the life insurance business, representing the New York Life Insurance Company, and has since continued in this field of activity with gratifying success, securing many patrons for the company and writing up a large amount of business each year.

In November, 1907, he was again called to public office, being elected mayor of Norwalk on the democratic ticket. He has given to the city a businesslike administration, has sought to secure restrictive and constructive legislation whereever needed and has done much practical work for the city's benefit. Shortly after taking the office several bank failures occurred in Norwalk, bringing about a crisis in the city's affairs. It was evident that something must be done to restore confidence. Mayor Venus calmly faced the situation, gave to it his earnest study, viewed the question from every possible standpoint and as a result, associated with him every prominent man in organizing the Chamber of Commerce which has since flourished and has done much for the city's upbuilding and the restoration of its financial status. He has acted as secretary of the chamber since its organization and his work in this connection has been most far-reaching and beneficial.

In 1875, Mr. Venus was united in marriage to Miss Minnie Kunzelman, who died in 1904, and unto them were born three sons and two daughters: Carl H., Louise M. and Robert E., surviving. The family is prominent in the social circles of the city and the hospitality of the Venus home is greatly enjoyed by their many friends.

Mr. Venus belongs to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Knights of Columbus and several other organizations. He is the originator and organizer of The Smile Club, which is one of the most charitable organizations ever started in Norwalk. With the assistance of several charitably inclined ladies and gentlemen of this city, this club was organized for the purpose of giving every needy child in Norwalk a bountiful Christmas and that its object has been carefully carried out may be ascertained by asking any waif in Norwalk. The club is still in existence and is a monument to the fertile brain and progressive and charitable spirit of Mr. Venus. He is an alert, energetic and enterprising man, who seems to realize the possibilities of every situation and in both his public and private affairs, has so co-ordinated forces and managed interests as to bring about the best possible conditions under the situation. His mayoralty record will ever remain a most creditable chapter in his life history.

Lambert M. Chapin

Huron county numbers among its intelligent, enterprising and successful citizens Lambert M. Chapin, who for many years has been a prominent figure in agricultural circles and has also taken an active part in the public affairs of the community. Born in Hartland township, Huron county, upon the farm where he now resides, October 21, 1842, his birth occurred in a little log cabin which stood but a few feet away from the site of the present modern dwelling. He is a son of Morris G. and Clarissa (Granger) Chapin, the former a native of Genesee county, New York, while the mother's birth occurred in Cleveland, Ohio. In 1825, the father accompanied his parents to Ohio when but a young lad and in this state the remainder of his life was spent. He was engaged to some extent in farming and became a large landowner, being one of the successful and influential residents of the community in which he resided. He was an ardent democrat, taking a very active part in all public affairs and he was a gentleman of wide information and intelligence, his name being a synonym for honesty and fair dealing. He passed away February 7, 1887, and his remains were interred in Woodland cemetery at Norwalk, to which city he had removed in 1880, after retiring from active business life. His wife was called to her final rest April 14, 1891, and was laid to rest beside her husband in Woodland. In their family were four children, all of whom are now living with exception of one daughter.

Reared to agricultural pursuits, Lambert M. Chapin spent the days of his boyhood and youth upon the old homestead whereon he was born and upon which he has since continued to make his residence. He attended the district schools of Hartland township and when not engaged with his textbooks, his time was devoted to assisting his father in the work of the fields. He early became familiar with the hest methods of plowing, planting and harvesting and under the direction of his father learned many lessons concerning the value of industry, energy and perseverance. In 1878, he purchased the farm across the road from the old homestead and upon this place he has been busily engaged in general farming and stock raising, both branches of his business proving a source of gratifying remuneration to him. His property now consists of about three hundred and fifty acres of fine farm land, all under a high state of cultivation, so that he is ranked among the prosperous and substantial agriculturists of his part of the county.

February 22, 1871, Mr. Chapin was united in marriage to Miss Martha ]. Shipley, a daughter of Samuel P. and Harriet (Morrison) Shiplev, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. 'The parents came to Ohio with their respective parents when young people, settlement being made in Olena, Huron county, where Mr. Shipley was engaged in the carriage business. He passed away July 30, 1885, but his widow still survives at the advanced age of eighty-two years. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Chapin has been blessed with three sons, namely: Elmer L., who is married and resides in Cleveland ; Fred M., who is also married and operates a farm adjoining the old homestead ; and Samuel S., likewise married, carryine on general farming in Bronson township. All of the sons are successful business men and are well known and prominent citizens in the communities in which they reside.

In his political relations, Mr. Chapin has always been a supporter of the republican party and has been very active in the public affairs of the community, having filled almost every office the township. His public life has at all times been characterized with the same adherence to truth, right and justice as has been manifest in his private relations, and the consensus of public opinion accords him a foremost place among the valued citizens of Huron county. Fraternally, he holds membership in the Olena Grange of the Patrons of Husbandry, of which his son Fred M. was a charter member, and in the affairs of which both father and son have been extremely active. Mr. and Mrs. Chapin hold membership in the Presbyterian church, to which they are liberal contributors and deeply interested in the various phases of the church work, while Mr. Chapin is now serving in the capacity of church trustee. He has passed his entire life on the old homestead where he was born with the exception of a few years, when his sons were attending school. During that pericd the family lived in Norwalk but after they had completed their education, the family returned to the farm. Mr. and Mrs. Chapin have traveled extensively and have acquired a very wide general knowledge. They are readers of all the best current literature, and thüs they are . able to speak authoritatively upon all of the live topics of the day. The family residence is one of the most comfortable and attractive homes of Hartland township and is pervaded by an atmosphere of refinement and culture, which is both pleasing and uplifting. It is also the seat of a genuine and cordial hospitality, which makes it a favorite resort with a large circle of warm friends.

Daniel S. Washburn

Daniel S. Washburn, well known as a prominent and worthy representative of the agricultural interests of the county, and having large holdings in Greenwich and Ripley townships, was born April 8, 1843, near where he now resides and where he has always lived. He is the son of Henry G. and Ann Maria (Van Benschoten) Washburn, the father coming as a young man from Ulster county, New York, in 1830, followed later by his parents. The mother was a native of Berlin, Erie county, Ohio. Both the Washburns and the Van Benschotens were from colonial families and had many representatives in the war for independence and later were leaders in the formation of the republic. 'The latter were particularly active and were honored personal friends of General Washington.

Henry G. Washburn and wife were married in 1842 and settled in Greenwich township, where they continued residence through life. Here they reared their family of four children: Daniel 5., Susanna M., Alice E. and Jay. Susanna died at the age of eighteen. Henry G. Washburn was a pushing, energetic man, who came to Ohio with a pittance and increased it to a competency, at the same time taking an intelligent interest in the life of the community. His business was farming but he also became widely known as a breeder of fine cattle and sheep. After a long and useful life, he passed away in September, 1886. Mrs. Washburn still survives, a kindly, vivacious lady who retains her faculties and, at the age eighty-six, goes about with the apparent vigor of middle life.

Daniel S. Washburn received somewhat more than the usual amount of education for his time, having attended the normal school at Milan, Ohio. Having been reared under the tutelage of a skillful and prosperous farmer, he decided to continue the work as a life occupation and has consistently followed it. After his marriage he and his wife located where they now reside, their life being passed without a single change. They have a splendid farm of four hundred acres, all in a high state of cultivation, and especially well tiled - a large drain through the center and eight laterals - and with ample buildings. The house is one of the most complete farm homes in the county. Mr. Washburn is one of the directors of the First National Bank of Greenwich, Ohio.

Although a republican in politics and an interested participant in public matters, Mr. Washburn confines his attention to the needs of his own community, acting as township trustee and member of the board of education on occasion, and always being active in movements looking toward the advancement of his community in social and religious affairs. Being primarily a farmer, he has always taken an active interest in that which promised a bettering of the farmer's condition. For that reason he has been an influential worker in the Grange and is firm in his conviction that said organization has brought about improved conditions. He is a charter member of Ripleyville Grange, No. 707, the first organized in that township, and is now a member of North Fairfield Grange, No. 806, Patrons of Husbandry, which he and his wife joined on its organization. He has held all of the local offices and is a member and overseer of the county grange.

Daniel S. Washburn was married January 23, 1867, to Sarah Jane Mac- Omber, daughter of Egbert and Anna (Benedict) MacOmber. Her family came from Cayuga county, New York, in 1833, and were prominent in the development of this section. "They, late in life, moved to Erie county, Ohio, where the father died in 1888, the mother surviving him some five years. Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Washburn: Anna Maude, wife of Lacey W. Robinson, a farmer of Ripley township; Ernest Linton, who is married and is operating the old farm; Inez, wife of Warren O. Smith, a farmer of Richland county; Wayne, now in the far west; and Leo, who, with Wayne, was in partnership with his father on the farm. He is a graduate veterinary surgeon and for some time served as government meat inspector but resigned that position in the spring of 1909 and is now at home.

One of the prominent members of the farming community of Greenfield township is F. P. Mitchell, who owns and operates a fine farm of one hundred and fortytwo acres, on which he has made his home throughout life, his birth occurring here November 5, 1866. His father, Elias Mitchell, was born on the same farm December 30, 1839, and is still living, making his home in North Fairfield, Ohio. Our subject's paternal grandfather was William Mitchell, who was born January 1, 1799, and came to this state from Canandaigua, New York, 1820, locating Greenwich township, Huron county. Here in the midst of the unbroken forest he cleared land and laid out the town of Greenwich, where he and his brother lived for about six years. They bought land there which they later gave to their father, James Mitchell, the great-grandfather of our subject, who continued to make his home in Greenwich until called to his final rest. He was a son of James Mitchell, Sr. A soldier of the Revolutionary war, he took part in the battle of Trenton and died when his son James was but nine years of age. After seeing that his parents were comfortably located in their new home in Greenwich, William Mitchell, our subject's grandfather, removed to Macksville, where he worked in the mill and distillery of Ezra Smith, being a miller by trade. He spent seven years in that locality and then came to Greenfield township, where he purchased a farm which at that time was covered with timber with the exception of two acres that had been cleared and a log house erected thereupon. He made that dwelling his home until a more substantial log house could be erected. He continued to reside upon this farm until 1860, devoting his time to clearing the land and cultivating the fields, and then returned to Macksville where he lived retired for some time. He died in Fairfield township in September, 1890, honored and respected by all who knew him. For several years he filled the office of township trustee and was a deacon of the Baptist church, both in Peru and Fairfield township, assisting in removing the church from the former township and donating the land upon which it was located.

His son, Elias Mitchell, the father of F. P. Mitchell, has lived in Greenfield and Fairfield townships all his life, carrying on agriculture. He was born on the home farm December 30, 1839, and received his education in the district schools. He became one of the prominent citizens of this locality, served for eighteen years as a trustee of Fairfield township, held several offices in Greenfield township and was one of the directors of the Farmers Mutual Insurance Company of Huron county. He is at present living in North Fairfield, in comparative rest from toil. His wife, who in her maidenhood was Miss Cornelia Place, was born October 26, 1842, in New York city, but was very young when she came here with her mother and her step-father, in 1855. Her own father had died in 1847, and her mother married James L. Coit, Sr. To Mr. and Mrs. Elias Mitchell, have been born three children : Grant, who died at the age of one; E. P., the subject of this sketch; and Bertha, who died at the age of twenty-six, leaving a husband, Robert Reeder, of North Fairfield, and three children: Ray, Dana, deceased, and Nelson.

F. P. Mitchell has always lived on his present farm, and in his youth, he attended the district schools, from which he gleaned such an education as they were able to impart during the few months they were in session and to lads who were compelled to give their first thought to the farm and its work. However, they would seem to have afforded a good training for life, for Mr. Mitchell has been very successful in the farming he has practiced and in the live stock business, he has carried He is also interested in the wool market. He has had other interests outside his farm, perhaps the principal one being in the schools. For a period of fifteen years, he served as a member of the board of education, is at present president of that body, and has held other offices within the gift of the people of his township. He is the secretary of the Farmers Mutual Insurance Company, a stockholder and one of the directors of the North Fairfield Savings Bank and of the North Fairfield Telephone Company, of which latter concern he is also treasurer.

On the 21st of November, 1888, Mr. Mitchell wedded Miss Catherine Ryerson, a daughter of George M. and Catherine (Edsel) Ryerson, of Peru township. Mrs. Mitchell was born there, whither her parents had come from New York state in the early days. She was one of a family of nine children, the others being: Sarah, the wife of Charles H. Burg, of Patterson, New Jersey; Price V. and Edsel, of North Fairfield, Ohio: Esther, the wife of Adelbert S. Roe, of Peru township;

George E., of Fairfield township; Catherine, the wife of our subject; Delno P., of Norwalk, Ohio ; Dora, the widow of F. M. Mitchell, and a resident of Columbus, Ohio ; and Grace, the wife of Henry T. Graham, of Fairfield township. Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell have had three children: Donald, born January 2, 1894; C. Philip, born October 2, 1896; and Cornelia, born January 27, 1900.

By hard and diligent labor, Mr. Mitchell has won success in his business operations, and because of the strong qualities of his character, he has won the respect and confidence of his fellow citizens. He is one of the men who make for the prosperity and stability of Greenfield township.

Warren Severance

A man versed in the laws of the country, as distinguished from the business man or politician, has been a recognized power for many years. He is depended upon to conserve the best and permanent interests of the whole people, and without him and his practical judgment, the efforts of the statesman and the industry of the business man and mechanic would prove futile. The reason is not far to seek, for the professional lawyer is never a creature of circumstances, The profession is open to talent, and no definite prestige or success can be attained save by indomitable energy, perseverance, patience and strong mentality. One of the leading representatives of the bar of Huron county is Warren Severance, of Chicago, Ohio, who is a of long and varied experience and deep learning. He was born in Sandusky county, Ohio, October 9, 1836, being a son of Elisha and Phebe B. (Tracy) Severance.

Elisha Severance was born in Shelburn, Massachusetts, while his wife was born in Bridgewater, Vermont. He came to Ohio in 1819, locating at Milan, Erie county, where he lived for a number of years, later removing to Sandusky county, Ohio, and thence to Huron county, where he died October rath, 1892. He first worked at his trade of coopering exclusively, but later, he began farming in the summer, confining his work at his trade to the winter. His first wife was Martha Bangs, a daughter of Captain Bangs, who commanded a lake boat. She bore him one son, that lived to maturity, Samuel M. The second wife was Phebe B. Tracy and by this marriage, there were the following children: William M., Warren, Byron, and one son that died in infancy.

Warren Severance attended the Maxville school in Peru township, Samuel F. Newman being one of his teachers. When he was twenty years old, he left school and like so many young men of his days who cherished ambitions, he began teaching. For nine years he continued as an educator in the schools of Huron county, but never relinquished his determination to enter the legal profession, and in 1876 he was able to begin his law studies. In 1878, he was admitted to the bar and immediately thereafter located in Chicago, Ohio, which has been his home ever since, having firmly established himself in the confidence of the people. On March 16, 1896, Mr. Severance was admitted to the supreme court in Washington, D. C.

Mr. Severance was married February 9, 1860, to Philinda Shepard, a daughter of Israel and Nancy (Brown) Shepard, who were the parents of the following named children: Hannah, who married D. B. Kroh; Mary, deceased, who married James McDuell; Israel, also deceased; Mrs. Severance; Lucinda, who married J. Z. Woodworth ; and Eva, who married W. B. Keefer. Mr. and Mrs. Severance became the parents of two children: E. W.; and Clara M., who is the widow of C. A. Weatherford. Mr. Severance mourns the loss of his wife, who passed away May 10, 1904.

He has been very prominent fraternally, and belongs to Chicago Lodge No. 748, I. O. O.E, at Chicago, Ohio. He is local counsel for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company, having held this position since 1891. While a republican, Mr. Severance has not sought public office. A consistent member of the Presbyterian church, he is much interested in its good work, and has been one of its elders since the establishment of the church in Chicago, also acting as one of the church trustees. For many years, he has practiced in all of the courts and has been connected with much of the legal business of his locality, his sound and ripe iudgment, conservative views and thorougb knowledge of his profession making him one of the best attorneys Huron county has ever possessed.

One of the prosperous young farmers of Greenfield township is B. M. Cherry, who owns the one hundred and forty-five acres of land on which he makes his home. He was born in this township, September 29, 1873, and is a son of Eugene and Augusta (Turney) Cherry. The paternal grandfather, Reuben Cherry, was one of the old settlers of this county. He was reared and married in New York state, but in 1823 came to Ohio alone, settling at Hanvil's Corners, Fairfield township. After working here for a time, he returned home to get his wife, coming back to this state which he made his home until 1857, when typhoid fever caused his death. His widow, who before her marriage was Miss Brilla Snow, lived to be eighty-eight, and until 1893, the year of her death, made her home with her son Eugene, the youngest of her family of nine. Among the others were Eunice, who married M. Taylor, both now deceased; Eudolphia, the deceased wife of T. F. Hildreth ; and Lucinda, the widow of Philander Mitchell.

Eugene Cherry, the father of R. M. Cherry, has spent all his life in this county. He was born March 20, 1846, in Fairfield township, and began his education in the old log schoo! house there. He was not privileged however, to receive much of an education, for his father's early death compelled him to give all his time to the management of the farm. To the cultivation of the soil he devoted himself assiduously until 1905, when he removed to Norwalk to live in retirement and enjoy the fruits of his labor. His wife was born in Connecticut, but came at the age of thirteen to this state to live with an aunt. Later, Mrs. Cherry returned to her native home for a while as her father, Cyrus Turney, never became a resident of Ohio. Her mother had died when she was but a young girl. To Mr. and Mrs. Cherry were born three children: Jessie, at home; R. M., of this review ;

R. M. Cherry has always lived in this locality, and has worked on the farm from his boyhood. He attended the district school of the township, but could never be said to have received an education for when his father's health failed, as the result of a sunstroke, he was compelled to give up his lessons and devote himself, mind and body, to the conduct of the farm. The hard work he has put into the field tell; his crops are bountiful; and the condition of the buildings shows that their owner is thrifty and a good manager. He has found by experience that his soil is best adapted to general farming and the progressive methods he employs bid fair to make him one of the most prosperous men of his township in a few years.

On the 19th of April, 1905, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Cherry and Miss May Hartman, the daughter of William and Alice (Crebs) Hartman, of New London, Oho. Mr. Hartman was born in Ashland county, Ohio, July 14, 1851, and his wife in Huntington county, Indiana, July 25, 1854. Both are still living. They had a family of five children: Ira; Charles ; Nina, deceased ; May and Sylvia.

Mr. Cherry is a member of the Methodist church of North Fairfield, is in regular attendance at its services and contributes generously to its support. He is a member of the younger generation of farmers, to whom the township will look for her future prosperity and advancement, and her best expectations will not be disappointed, if we are to judge by the past years of Mr. Cherry's life.

William Erf

William Erf, devoting his time and energies to farming and dairy pursuits in Lyme township, is meeting with a substantial measure of success which entitle him to rank among the prosperous and progressive agriculturists of his township. He was born in Peru township, Huron county, May 7, 1857, a son of Philip and Dorothea (Heymen) Erf, both natives of Germany. The father was born in Freien Dietz in 1821, where he was reared to the age of twenty years. Rumors had come to him concerning the superior opportunities for advancement offered in the new world and he decided to try his fortune on this side of the Atlantic. Consequently, he sailed for the United States and made his way direct to Huron county, Ohio, settling in Peru township, where he worked by the month for several years. When, by hard labor and careful saving, he had accumulated sufficient money, he purchased a few acres of land in that township and directed his gies toward cultivating and expanding this property. As he prospered, he added to his holdings until at the time of his death, he had become the owner of two hundred and fifty acres in the home farm and about two hundred and fifty acres in other parts of the county. He was well known and esteemed in the community in which he lived and served for several years as trustee of Huron county. His death occurred in 1894, but his wife still survives him at the age of seventy years. In their family were four children: William, of this review ; Lydia, the deceased

William Erf has always made his home in Huron county, residing in Peru township until twenty-six years of age, while in the meantime, he attended the district schools of that township and also studied for a short time at Monroeville, Ridgefield township. Having been reared to agricultural pursuits, he wisely chose this as his life work and is now numbered among the prosperous and representative farmers of his county. The year 1883 witnessed his arrival in Lyme township, where he purchased his present farm of one hundred and fifty-three acres from his father in 1893. He has made many improvements upon the place, erecting a fine large residence and commodious and substantial barns and outbuildings. Aside from his farming interests, he is also proprietor of the Chestnut Ridge Dairy and this branch of his business is proving an important factor in his present success. He is president and director of the Star Creamery Company of Monroeville and is also a director of the Hess Hardware Company of that place. His business is conducted with keen discernment and is most carefully managed, so that he receives therefrom most gratifying returns.

Mr. Erf was united in marriage March 8, 1883, to Miss Minnie A. Scheld, a daughter of Philip and Wilhelmina Scheld, natives of Germany. Her birth occurred in Peru township and she was the fifth in a family of six children, the others being: Bertha, Lewis, August, Amelia and Lydia. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Erf has been blessed with four children: Norma, Cora, Elzy and W. P., all at home.

Mr. Erf is a member of the Evangelical church and his life at all times has been in keeping with its teachings. He has served as a member of the school board for some time and is at present clerk of the board, while at all times he is deeply and helpfully interested in all matters pertaining to the material, intellectual and moral welfare of the community. Mr. and Mrs. Erf are among the most highly respected and prosperous citizens in the community.

F. William Bishop

E. William Bishop, who carries on general farming in Peru township, is one of the enterprising and progressive agriculturists of the community. He owns one hundred and twenty acres of rich farm land, and it was upon this place that he was born May 26, 1859. His parents were Arsineus and Tracy (Schaefer) Bishop. The father was born in Baden, Germany, and when a young man came to the United States, settling in Huron, Ohio, where he worked at the shoemaker's trade, which he had learned in Germany. He lived there until about 1845, when he bought the farm upon which our subject now makes his home. The improvements upon the place were of a very primitive character, consisting of a log house and log barn, and the land was nearly all covered with timber. With resolute spirit, such as was shown by the pioneers who faced the hardships and privations of frontier life, Mr. Bishop began clearing the place, cutting away the trees, grubbing up the stumps and clearing away the brush until he transformed the land into productive fields. From time to time he made substantial improvements and his property became one of the excellent farms of the locality. At all times he was progressive in his citizenship and cooperated in many movements for the general good. He died in 1884 at the age of seventy-two years and the community mourned the loss of one of its highly respected and worthy citizens. His wife in her girlhood days had come to Huron county with her parents, F. W. and Elizabeth Schaefer, and had settled at Monroeville about 1840. Subsequently they removed to Seneca county. Mrs. Bishop died in 1902 at the age of seventy-four years. By her marriage she has become the mother of six children: Frank J., now deceased; Elizabeth C., a resident of Crawford county, Ohio; E. William; J. R., who is also living in Crawford county; Maggie, deceased; and Alfred P., likewise a resident of Crawford county. The father had been married twice and by his former marriage had two children: Joseph, who died in the army; and Thomas, who is living in Fairfield township.

F. William Bishop spent his boyhood days in the usual manner of farm lads of the period and locality. He remained on the home place until twenty-six years of age and was then married, after which he removed to Auburn, Indiana, being employed in the shops at that place. He also worked along industrial lines at Garrett, Indiana, securing a situation in the railroad shops at that point, and later he went to Fostoria, Ohio, where he was employed in the glass works. Subsequently he removed to Tiffin, Ohio, and worked in the Stove foundry for about eleven years. During that period his wife died and he returned to Huron county to take care of the farm and of his mother, remaining with her until her demise.

Mr. Bishop had wedded Miss Helen Hipp, a daughter of Henry and Elizabeth (Koppler) Hipp, of Seneca county, Ohio. The marriage was celebrated April 29, 1884, and they became the parents of four children: Fred V., Martin J., Isabelle E. and Linus D. Mrs. Bishop, who was born in Seneca county, Ohio, in June, 1858, died in Tiffin, Ohio, Septémber 27, 1899, her remains being interred in St. Joseph cemetery at that place. Mr. Bishop is now living alone with his two sons and carries on general farming, working diligently and persistently to secure the success which is the merited reward of all honorable labor. He belongs to the Catholic church of Peru township, and is well known as a representative citizen of the community.

Two of the highly esteemed physicians of Greenwich township are Drs. Robert H. and Bushnell K. Reynolds, father and son. only are they able practitioners, but they are also public-spirited men, who have contributed their share to the advancement and progress of the community. Robert H. Reynolds was born April 25, 1846, in Greenwich township, in a house constructed for the greater part of walnut timber, that is still used for a dwelling, though it has been moved to the village. He is the son of Dr. Henry and Harriet (Marble) Reynolds, both of whom were born and reared in the state of New York, the latter in Oswego county. Dr. Henry Reynolds was married in Cooperstown, New York. In 1839, he went to Tennessee, where he remained a year, and then came to Huron county, Ohio, taking up the practice of his profession, for which he had prepared himself before leaving the state of his nativity. He was the father of nine children: Angeline, Russell N., Esther, Lavilla, Hannah, William B., Harriet E., Cornelia A. and Robert H., all of whom with the exception of Harriet E., who died in infancy, grew to maturity before he was called to his last resting place, at the age of seventy-eight. His wife had died six years before, in May, 1874, and but three of the large family now survives, Russell N., of Chicago Junction; Cornelia, the widow of Julius H. Hulburt, of Plymouth, Huron county; and Dr. Robert H. Dr. Henry Reynolds was a man interested and active in public affairs. He was a republican in politics, was an ordained elder in the Methodist Episcopal church, and in the course of his long and busy life, was widely known and highly respected.

Robert H. Reynolds was educated in the public schools of Greenwich township, later attending the Maumee City Academy. He received his medical training in the Eclectic Medical Institute of Cincinnati, from which he was graduated in 1872, and he entered upon the practice of his profession almost immediately, coming to Greenwich township, which has been the scene of his labors continuously since, save for the year 1883, spent in Taylor county, Texas. He went there with the intention of establishing himself in profession, but the climatic conditions were so unfavorable, that he was compelled to return to Ohio. While his duties as a physician have kept Dr. Reynolds very busy, he has taken an active interest in public affairs and has found some time to give to the service of the public. At three distinct times, he acted as coroner for the county, was twelve years justice of the peace, and for the space of four years, was a member of the school board, of which he was president for a time. politics, he is an ardent republican, and in 1900 was given the nomination for state senator from Huron, Erie, Ottawa and Sandusky counties. This is a strong democratic locality, but Dr. Reynolds reduced the majority of his opponent to something less than two hundred, which is a slight evidence of his strength before the people.

On the 8th of July, 1873, was solemnized the marriage of Dr. Reynolds to Miss Helen M. Washburn, the daughter of Charles A. and Mary E. (Griffin) Washburn. The families of both parents came to Ohio from New York, and the father had the distinction of having been the second white child born in Greenwich township. The mother, however, was seventeen years of age when her parents came here, and for two years before her marriage taught in the schools of the township. Both parents have now been dead for a number of years, but in the days of his activity, Mr. Washburn was a successful farmer and stock raiser. Dr. and Mrs. Reynolds have been blessed with a family of five children: James C., who died in infancy ; Bushnell R., a practicing physician of Greenwich; Rhena H., deceased ; Glide A., a student at the Ohio State University ; and D. Chauncey, still in school and living at home.

Dr. Reynolds belongs to several fraternal organizations, and others that are connected with his profession. He is a member of Greenwich Lodge, F. & A.

M. ; a charter member of the O. K. Lodge, Knights of Pythias ; Greenwich Lodge, No. 640, I. O. O. F.; and with his wife belongs to the Eastern Star and the Daughters of Rebekah. In all of these societies he takes an active interest, and has frequently represented the different lodges at the grand meetings of organizations. He belongs to the Ohio State Eclectic Medical Association ; is president of the special board of pension examiners located at Chicago Junction. He is very active also on the county pension board, which aims to take care of the needy blind. In the councils of the republican party, he has played some part, having been a member of the republican county central committee and frequently a delegate to district county and state conventions. In matters of religion, he and his wife give their support to the Methodist Episcopal church, in whose work they are both sincerely interested. In short, Dr. Reynolds is a man of great public spirit, who favors public improvements, such as contribute to the credit and material progress and comfort of the community, and has not been averse to doing his share toward bringing these things to pass.

Bushnell Ray Reynolds, the son of Dr. Robert H. Reynolds, was born December r, 1875, in Greenwich village. He was graduated from the Greenwich high school in 1894 and from there went to the Ohio Wesleyan University in Delaware, remaining there two years. He then went to the Eclectic Medical Institute of Cincinnati and was graduated from that institution with the class of 1899, entering the same year upon the practice of his profession in Greenwich. In the ten years that he has ministered to the physical wants of the people here, he has attained for himself a notable success and a high reputation; for not only is he endowed with the qualities of an able practitioner, but he also makes every effort to keep abreast of the advances made in his profession. He is a constant student by predilection, and in the winter of 1907-8, took a postgraduate course in the school from which he received training. Like his father, he is a republican and interested in public matters, though he has never sought an office at the disposal of the people.

On the 28th of October, 1900, Dr. B. R. Reynolds married Miss Elleva E. Stewart, a daughter cf Francis W. and Phoebe (Mann) Stewart, of Fairfield township. Her father was of Scotch descent, her grandfather, Daniel Stewart, having come from Scotland with his parents at the age of eight years. The latter became famous as a lake captain and followed the lakes for a long period of years. He was a man of singularly powerful frame and robust constitution and was ninety-six years of age when he died, on the 6th of March, 1908. Francis W. Stewart was a farmer of Huron county and was well and widely kaown. He died December 29, 1898, and his wife two years later, dying on the 14th of October, 1900. Mr. and Mrs. Stewart had two daughters: Julia R., the wife of ]. W. Muckley, a traveling salesman, who resides in the state of Washington; and Elleva F., the wife of Dr. Reynolds. Mrs. Reynolds was for years one of the popular teachers of the Greenwich schools and still retains her interest in the subject of public education. She has the distinction of having received her county certificate at the age of fifteen and of having entered upon her vocation before she became sixteen. She is a woman of refinement and intellectual attainments, and under her leadership the Reynolds home has become a factor in the social and literary life of the village.

Dr. Bushnell R. Reynolds, like his father, belongs to several organizations He is a member of the Ohio State Eclectic Medical Association, and the Greenwich Lodge, No. 640, I. O. O. E, and the O. K. Lodge, K. P., of Greenwich include him in their membership roll. He also belongs to the Uniform Rank of Knights of Pythias, of Shelby, Ohio and with his wife is a member of the Daughters of Rebekah. Another means of recreation in which Dr. Reynolds indulges, are fine horses and a day's hunting or fishing. He is a man of progressive spirit, deeply interested in the welfare of the community in which he lives, and is one who views matters from an optimistic standpoint, and the good will of the people toward him promises well for his future success.

Charles W. Manahan

Few attain the ripe old age Charles W. Manahan, who has now passed the ninety-sixth milestone on the journey of life. His former years of industry and activity have supplied him with a handsome competence, so that now in the evening of life, he can enjoy all the comforts to be obtained, while at the same time he commands the full respect and veneration of one of his years. Born in the Empire state, May 16, 1813, his parents were Thomas and Violetta (Silcox) Manahan, the former a native of New Jersey, and the latter of New York.

Charles W. Manahan, when but twenty years of age, came to Ohio in the spring of 1833, this being then a frontier district. He addressed himself to the tasks which western life presented and with steadiness and courage met the problems which confronted him. He first engaged in carpentering, but after a short time gave his attention to the manufacture of wagons and carriages on his own account, when all such labor was then performed by hand. After about three years thus engaged, he sold out, taking wagons as payment, and these he traded for horses, which he took to his native county, Cayuga county, New York, where he disposed of them for cash. He then returned to the Buckeye state and discharged his indebtedness on farm land which he had contracted for and also made additional purchases, buying in all one hundred acres. While serving his apprenticeship at Auburn, New York, he assisted in making the first threshing machine ever made in the United States, and later he and his brother constructed three machines in Norwalk, two of which they sold, but abandoned the work on account of the labor required in its perfection.

It was in 1849, that Mr. Manahan established a home of his own by his marriage to Miss Delana Wheeler, who was born in Massachusetts. Bringing his bride to Huron county, they began their domestic life in true pioneer style in a log shanty on his father's farm, his own newly acquired farm having as yet no buildings thereon. His wife, though born of wealthy parents and leaving a comfortable home in the east, proved herself a worthy helpmate to her husband and at once submitted to the privations necessary to assist him in establishing a good home on the frontier. Having previously worked for a year and a half at the carpenter's trade, he found this knowledge of the trade of material value in building his own home, performing all the work from digging the cellar to plaster- ing and painting the house. After about three years, he disposed of his one hundred acre tract and purchased an improved farm. For three years, he there engaged in general agricultural pursuits and then, believing money could be made in the sheep industry, he began buying of his neighbors, selecting only the largest and best grades of animals, and in the fall of 1849, he had a flock of two hundred head, which he fed during the winter. In the following spring - 1850 - he shipped his sheep to New York city, where he disposed of them for eight hundred dollars and with this capital, he purchased a stock of goods and opened a general store in Olena. For twelve years, he was thus engaged, building up an extensive business in Olena and the surrounding country. He took in payment for his merchandise, butter, eggs, wool and various commodities, which he shipped to the city markets, where he secured cash for them. the meantime he bought wool for a Boston manufacturer, his annual purchases amounting to between forty and fifty thousand pounds. He also built an ashery on his farm. He secured a team and a man, who visited the farmers and bought their ashes, trading for the same goods from the store. Mr. Manahan then converted the ashes. into potash, which he shipped to the New York market. He also bought colts for from thirty to thirty-five dollars each and, putting them on his farm, kept them until they were about three years old, when he would sell them at a good profit and use the money to buy more land. In this way, he accumulated two hundred and thirtythree acres in one body, which cost him at an average of twenty dollars per acre and which he disposed of in 1865 at fifty dollars per acre. It was by these various methods that Mr. Manahan gained a good start in life and his success continued throughout his active connection with business interests.

It was while busily engaged with his mercantile enterprise that Mr. Manahan was appointed by the government as inspector of horses, with which to equip the First Ohio Cavalry, their headquarters being at Monroeville. During his four year's service, he bought and shipped more than one thousand head. At the expiration of that period, he turned his attention to buying and improving city property. His first purchase consisted of ten acres on West Main street in Norwalk, for which he paid two thousand dollars, while he spent an additional five hundred dollars in improving the same. He eventually disposed of a portion of this - the portion which had a frontage on Main street - for seven thousand, five hundred dollars. Two years later, he sold one lot to Mr. Jackson, of Norwalk. In the meantime, Mr. Manahan took teams and went into the woods, digging up maple trees, which he transplanted in the streets of Norwalk, this being now one of the most beautiful residence district of the city. He also planted evergreen trees and other shrubbery on a lot, which he contemplated making a building spot for his own home, but later abandoned the idea and disposed of the lot to W. W. Graham, which is his present place of abode.

Eventually Mr. Manahan again engaged in business Norwalk, becoming a member of the firm which conducted business under the name of Parker, Manahan & Taber. His time was thus occupied for twelve years, when being then a man of seventy, Mr. Manahan decided to dispose of his interests and retire to private life. However, he could not content himself in idleness and purchased a tract of land in Norwalk, opened up a street, now known as Manahan avenue, and here he built eight houses and beautified the street by planting trees on each side of the highway, which he himself had dug in the woods. He further improved his property by putting in gas and water, independent of the city system. He still owns this residence property, deriving therefrom a good rental. He likewise carries four thousand dollars in stock in the Chase piano factory, having been a director in the A. B. Chase Company for thirty-five years.

Although he is now more than ninety-six years of age, he is still hale and hearty and manages his own business affairs, takes care of his garden, attends to all repairs made in his houses, and makes frequent trips on foot to the cemetery, a mile and a quarter distant, where his wife and two sons lie buried. In his family were three children, but Charles W., Jr., and William Kendall are both deceased. His daughter, Mrs. David W. Peckham, is now a widow and resides with him. A republican in politics, he still takes a deep interest in public affairs, and from 1862 until 1866, he served as treasurer of Huron county. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Congregational church. He is also a member of the Firelands Historic Society.

Mr. Manahan arrived in Huron county during its pioneer epoch and when he located here in 1833, he purchased fifty acres of land within six miles of where the enterprising and progressive city of Norwalk now stands for three dollars per acre, while his father, Thomas Manahan, bought two hundred acres in the same district at the same figure. Although he could not see in advance the full importance of the work which he was accomplishing, the result is today seen in the various sections of Norwalk which have been improved and beautified by his own hand, while the income which he now derives from his invested interests, supplies him with every needed comfort. Although he is now necessarily on the declining side of life, he bears his years well and no man in Norwalk and Huron county is held in higher esteem and regard than is Charles W. Manahan.

Edward Denman

There is within the borders of Huron county hardly a man who has remained here as long as Mr. Denman, who for eighty-nine years has resided in this portion of the state. He has lived to see the pioneer log cabins replaced by commodious and substantial homes, the forests converted into rich fields, the wild animals supplanted by high grades of live stock, while churches, schools, libraries and other evidences of intellectual and moral culture are found on every hand.

Edward Denman was born September 4, 1820, in Huron county, his parents being John and Miranda (Blackman) Denman. The father, a native of England, was born in the county of Kent, March 25, 1791, and when six years of age came to America with his parents, the family home being established in Sullivan county, New York. He came to Ohio in 1816 as a young man with nothing but his ax as his capital. He possessed firm and determined purpose, however, - qualities which enabled him to overcome the difficulties and obstacles of business life - and. he met with undaunted courage the hardships and privations that come to those who locate on the frontier. The Blackman family had been established in Ohio four years before. Traveling westward by wagon, they had settled in the midst of the green forest, where they had to clear a spot large enough on which to build a cabin. Thus they began life in the west, facing all the difficulties and dangers of pioneer life. John Denman used his ax to good advantage, cutting away the forest trees and working for different pioneers in the locality until he gradually accumulated enough money to enable him to enter a claim from the government. After a few years he married Miranda Blackman, who was a native of Niagara county, New York. They became the parents of nine sons and five daughters, Edward, William, John, Henry, Charles, Roxanna, Ann, Laura, Miranda, Mary P., Amos, Ambrose B. C., Martin and Leverett B. Of these seven are yet living, Edward, Henry, Martin, Leverett B., Amos, Laura and Mary. Edward is the only one who has retained his residence in this state. The father prospered in his undertaking as the years passed by and became a large landowner, his farms comprising about seven hundred acres. He was very active in the development of the county, contributing in substantial measure to its growth and improvement and he was, moreover, a positive and leading spirit in matters pertaining to the public welfare. To his family he gave the best advantages that frontier life afforded and made liberal provision for his children. He was also a charitable man along the lines of practical giving to the worthy poor. He died at his home in Florence, Erie county, Ohio, March 23, 1878, and his wife passed away March 24, 1887, the remains of both being interred in the Birmingham cemetery.

Edward Denman, whose name introduces this record, remained with his father upon the home farm until twenty-two years of age, and profited by such educational advantages as were at that time afforded in the neighborhood. The district school convened in a little log building for a few weeks each year and during that period Mr. Denman was instructed in the common branches of learning. At the age of thirteen years he was capable of driving a two yoke ox-team in the logging camp and as his capacity for farm work increased it lessened his opportunity of attending school, his last term being when he was seventeen years of age.

At the age of twenty-two he left the old home farm and began earning his living in the employ of others at thirty-seven and a half cents per day, or ten dollars per month. At the end of two years he determined to engaged in business for himself and rented a farm from his father on a cash basis. That year he harvested an immense hay crop, all cut in stumpy meadows with sickles and scythes, but he found that there was no market for the hay after he had had it stacked. He consequently bought several hundred sheep on credit - for he had little capital - that he might feed to them this hay through the winter, and by diligence, perseverance and hard work he met success in this undertaking and prospered from the start. The idea of paying rent, however, annoyed him and he determined to purchase a farm. Carrying out this resolution, he bought one hundred acres of timber land and contracted with some young men to clear thirty acres of this to be ready for fall wheat sowing. This was accomplished and from the thirty acres he threshed over six hundred bushels of wheat the following summer. The product was sold at a good price and with his wool clips and his increase flocks he began to see success ahead. The second year another thirty acres was cleared and put under cultivation and very soon more land was purchased and his acres broadened and his wealth increased. Those were the days in which ox-teams were exclusively used and part of a teamster's equipment was always an ax with which to cut away obstructions that might block the rude roads through the forests. Many discouragements beset the way of the early settler but Mr. Denman possessed a courageous spirit and firm purpose and, undaunted by the hardships and obstacles which he met, he persevered on his way until success attended his labors.

When he had secured a farm of his own he felt that he was justified in taking another important step in life and was married on the 13th of October, 1847, to Miss Jane Archer, a daughter of Joseph and Adeline (Kelley) Archer, both of whom were natives of New York city. In 1837 they arrived in Florence, in what was then Huron county, where the father engaged in farming, but he only lived a short time after coming to Ohio. His wife lived to the age of eighty years. Mr. and Mrs. Denman became the parents of six children: Joseph A., Adeline, John E., Jennie A., Annabelle and Louise, all living with the exception of the last named. The mother, who was devoted to the welfare of her household and possessed many excellent traits of heart and mind, passed away June 15, 1895.

The farm which Mr. Denman originally purchased was located on what is known as Butler road in Wakeman township. It was to that place that he brought his bride and they began housekeeping in a log cabin which he had already prepared. The dwelling, however, was rather pretentious for those times, with its plastered walls, good board floors, brick chimneys and a second story which was divided into bedrooms. The young couple started out happily and as the years passed Mr. Denman labored earnestly and perseveringly, adding to his acres from time to time. He engaged successfully in general farming and took up sheepraising on an extensive scale, at times having a clip of wool that brought him as high as eighteen hundred dollars. His sheep were of the Delaine variety and of pure breed, some of his animals selling for high prices. He also bred and raised fine thoroughbred horses, which sold for a high figure, and was likewise a successful fruit grower, his orchards producing fine specimens of fruit that brought top prices on the market. his farm the work of improvement was steadily carried on until it was all under a high state of cultivation and was probably the best improved property in the locality, his fields being most extensive and equal, if not superior, to all others in the quality of crops raised. In the fall of 1903 advancing age decided Mr. Denman to leave the farm and remove to a desirable location near the village of Wakeman, where he has erected a comfortable modern home and all conveniences and there he and his daughter Jennie reside, enjoying the comforts which a well spent and prosperous business life provides them.

While always a busy man, Mr. Denman has yet found time to participate in public matters and though not an office seeker, he has been interested in the election of good men - those who will serve efficiently and well the interests of the community at large. In national and state politics he supports the republican party but at local elections he has voted for the men whom he regards best qualified for the office, without considering their party affiliations. He and his family have been members of the Methodist Episcopal church for many years and his entire life has been upright and honorable, in consistent harmony with his profession. He is a man of humane spirit, charitable, kindly and reliable, his many sterling traits of character winning for him the trust and honor of his fellowmen and enabling him also to wield a wide and beneficial influence in the community. Few men now living have a clear conception of what this county was seventy-five years ago nor of the self-denial, industry and undaunted diligence which was required to bring it to his present high standard of excellence and progressive development. Mr. Denman, however, has been familiar with the history of the county for eighty-nine years and relates in an interesting manner many of the incidents which shaped its history during its formative period.

Gregory Jennings

On the roll of Huron county's honored dead appears the name of Gregory Jennings, a man who in his life displayed many sterling traits of character and won many warm friendships. He was among the worthy citizens that New England furnished to Ohio, his birth having occurred in Fairfield county, Connecticut, in 1832. His parents were Walter and Rhoda Jennings, who had a family of five children, namely: Gregory, Mary, Sarah, Ezra and Nelson. In 1835, when their son Gregory was a little lad of three years, they left their New England home and in the primitive methods of travel at that period made their way to Huron county, Ohio. Comparatively few settlements had been made within the borders of the county at that time and where are now seen richly cultivated fields at that time uncut forest stood, furnishing shelter for wild game and various kinds of wild animals. There were also seen evidences of Indian occupancy here although the red men had gone to hunting grounds farther west. With the work of development and improvement the Jennings family became closely associated as the years went by and Gregory Jennings, who was reared amid the wild scenes and environments of the frontier, shared with the family in all the hardships of pioneer life and also aided in the arduous task of developing a new farm.

It was in the year 1860, that Gregory Jennings was united in marriage to Miss Amanda E. Keeler, who was born in Fairfield county, Connecticut, in 1839, her parents being Burr and Mary (Nash) Keeler. Her grandfather was Jonah Keeler and her great-grandfather, Matthew Keeler. Jonah Keeler was united in marriage to Rebecca Raymond and their children were: Burr, George, Raymond, Smith, Rufus, William, Charles, Zalmon and David. Of this family, Burr Keeler, the father of Mrs. Jennings, spent his youthful days in the Charter Oak state and having arrived at years of maturity, he wedded Mary Nash, a daughter of George and Esther Nash and a sister of Henry and Maria Nash. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Burr Keeler were born nine children: Rebecca, Amanda, Mary, Burr, George, Sylvester, Harriett, Louise and Julia. The Keeler family remained in Connecticut until 1857, when they came to Ohio and were associated with the early development of the county.

Following their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Jennings took up their abode upon the farm in Huron county and throughout his remaining days, Mr. Jennings diligently tilled the soil in the production of crops which proved a generous reward for his labor. In all of his business dealings, he was reliable as well as enterprising and thus made for himself an untarnished name. His political allegiance was given to the republican party and his religious faith was that of the Congregational church. He was ever loyal in the cause which he espoused and in community aí- fairs manifested a public-spirited citizenship that made his cooperation much sought. He passed away in 1893, leaving to his family the priceless heritage of an untarnished name as well as a valuable farming property. Mrs. Jennings is also a member of the Congregational church and her life has been guided by its teachings. She is well known in Fairfield township and the hospitality of its best homes is freely accorded her.

Mrs. Rebecca Park

Mrs. Rebecca Park, well known in Huron county, is the owner of a valuable farm property of two hundred and eighty-nine acres in Bronson township. She is the widow of Robert Park and was born in County Donegal, Ireland, near Londonderry, on the 11th of April, 1838. She has, therefore, passed the seventy-first milestone on life's journey. Her parents were James and Martha (Calhoun) Park, both of whom were natives of Ireland and came to this country in 1847, settling at Savannah, Ashland county, where James Park followed the occupation of farming. The Parks were reared in Protestant Ireland and James Park was the son of Joseph and Rebecca (Torrence) Park, while his wife, Mrs. Martha Park, was a daughter of William and Ellen Calhoun.

Mrs. Rebecca Park spent her girlhood days in her parents' home and was trained to the work of the household so that she was capable of managing a home of her own at the time of her marriage, on the 2d of March, 1859, to Robert Park, who died March 27, 1896. He was born November 26, 1829, and was a son of Joseph and Sarah (McAddo) Park, who were also natives of Ireland and on coming to the new world in 1847, located in Bronson township, Huron county, Ohio. Joseph Park was a son of Joseph and Rebecca (Torrence) Park. Two children were born unto Robert and Rebecca Park. Carrie, whose birth occurred in 1860, is the wife of William Hall and resides in Huntington, West Virginia. They have two children: Percy and Park. Milton Park, born in 1863, is now a practicing physician located in Cleveland. He married Mrs. Catherine (Smead) Henry.

From the time of his marriage until his death, Robert Park followed the occupation of farming and to the work of the fields devoted his energies with good success. He held membership in the Presbyterian church, in which he was an elder for many years. His political allegiance was given to the republican party, but though he never sought nor desired office, he was always loyal to the best interests of the community in which he lived and was a public spirited and valued citizen. His life in all of its relations was honorable and upright and his example may well serve as a source of inspiration and encouragement to others. Mrs. Park is also a member of the Presbyterian church and a most earnest and con- sistent Christian woman. She has now lived on her present farm for twentythree years and the place contains two hundred and eighty-nine acres of rich and valuable land which has been brought under a high state of cultivation and displays all of the equipments and accessories of a model farm of the twentieth century.

Charles Zehner

Charles Zehner, as vice-president and treasurer of the Zehner Brothers Packing Company of Bellevue and Toledo, is manifesting in his business career the keen discernment and undaunted enterprise which result in the successful solution of intricate and involved business problems. In his present connection, he is promoting one of the leading productive industries of his part of the state and the policy which he follows is one which makes his example worthy of emulation.

One of the native sons of Bellevue, he was born August 26, 1859, of the marriage of Adam and Louisa (Heusner) Zehner, who were among the early settlers of this city. As the name indicates the family is of German origin. The father, who was born in Germany in 1814, there spent the first thirty years of his life and in 1844 crossed the Atlantic to the United States, settling first at Sandusky, where he conducted a tannery for about a year. At the end of that time, his plant was destroyed by fire and he removed to Bellevue, where he purchased the building in which his son Charles Zehner now carries on business. There he established a tannery, which hé conducted until about 1872, when he retired from active business life to spend his remaining days in the enjoyment of well earned rest. His death occurred in 1888 and his wife died December 20, 1879. Unto him and his wife were born the following children: Christian, the eldest, died in 1882 at the age of thirty-two years. John, president of the Zehner Brothers Packing Company and living in Toledo, Ohio, was formerly one of the directors of the First National Bank of Bellevue and also served as a member of the town council while living here. He married Matilda Hepp and unto them have been born seven children: Adam, Theodore, deceased; Huldah, Ernest, Albert and Edna and Edgar, twins ; Charles is the next member of the family. The other two died in infancy.

Charles Zehner has always made his home in Bellevue and at the usual age, entered the public schools, wherein he mastered the branches of learning that qualified him for life's practical and responsible duties. He made his initial step in the business world as an employe in his brother's meat market, being thus engaged from 1879 until 1881. In the latter year, he was admitted to a partnership and they continued as retail merchants until 1800, when they began the packing business. They had established the new enterprise on a paying basis when, in 1893, their plant was destroyed by fire. Not discouraged with this catastrophe, they at once rebuilt and in 1894, organized a stock company with about twenty stockholders, the business being capitalized for twenty-five thousand dollars. The original officers were: John Zehner, president ; Charles Zehner, vice-president and treasurer ; and I. R. Felker, secretary ; with J. H. Weber, Willis Vickery and Max Endle, as directors. The present officials are; John Zehner, president; Charles Zehner, vice-president and treasurer; L. P. Oehm, secretary; and I. N.

Humphrey, assistant secretary and treasurer. These gentlemen are all members of the board of directors together with J. P. Ruffing, Martin Gross, J. W. Closs, I. A. Biehl, George Slessman, J. H. Becker, B. A. Becker, Julius Waldo, W. J. Kinker, Robert Villwalk, William Steiflof and Joseph Kest. The firm has had to increase its capitalization from time to time to take care of its rapidly growing business until now it is capitalized at seven hundred and fifty thousand dollars. From the beginning the business has proven a profitable venture for it was carefully organized and the work has been thoroughly systematized and the company gives to the purchasing public a just equivalent for money invested. The constantly extending reputation of the house has brought to them a growing trade and renders this one of the important productive industries of Bellevue. Mr. Zehner also figures in business circles of Bellevue as one of the directors of the First National Bank. He purchased his brother John's shares in the institution and has since had voice in the managemnt of this sound financial concern.

Mr. Zehner was married on the 28th of March, 1883, to Miss Flora Keller, a daughter of August and Ernestine (Wise) Keller, of Bellevue. They have two children: Carl C. and Louisa A. The former married Jennie Gazley and resides on the old family homestead. He is now associated with his father in business. The daughter is the wife of Walter Raish and also resides in Bellevue.

Charles Zehner and his sons are members of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and since February ro, 1882, he has been connected with the Royal Arcanum. He is likewise a member of the German Aid Society, has been chairman of the finance committee of that organization for fifteen years and is in hearty sympathy with its purposes and its work. He also belongs to the Fraternal Order of Eagles and to the Lutheran church. His many substantial qualities have won him the favorable regard of those with whom business and social relations have brought him in contact. Having always resided in Bellevue, he is well known here, and his record is as an open book which all may read. The principles of sterling manhood are numbered among his chief characteristics, and his life history proves that success and an honorable name may be won simultaneously.

John Bauer

One of the successful agriculturists of New Haven township, Huron county, is John Bauer, who owns the one hundred acres of fine land on which he lives. He was born in Germany, September 27, 1858, and is the son of Henry and Margaret Bauer, who never left their native land, which was also the place of their death. Of their five children, however three came to this country and settled in Ohio. They are William, a resident of Milan, Ohio; Anthony, who lives in Ashland county, Ohio; and John, of this review. Catherine is deceased and one died in infancy.

John Bauer was twenty-eight years of age when he came to the United States. He had received his education in the land of his birth and there had learned the trade of a furniture maker. When in 1887 he came to this country he made his way almost directly to Ohio, locating first at Norwalk, where he ob- tained employment on the railroad. After a year he took up farming, working for the different landholders of the neighborhood. He was a hard worker and an excellent manager, so that in a couple of years he had saved seventy-five dollars, which was sufficient, with his wife's help to buy forty acres of land in Ashland county. There he made his home for about eight years, reaping large harvests from his fields and practicing that sturdy economy that has been one reason for his prosperity. On selling the farm in Ashland county, he moved to New Haven township, Huron county, where in 1903, he purchased his present tract of land from William Childs. In the years it has been his home he has made a number of improvements, greatly increasing its value. The land is best adapted to general agricultural and yields generous returns for the hard work Mr. Bauer puts upon it.