Wakeman Township (part 4 of 21)

Melvin J. Hurst

Melvin J. Hurst, a prominent farmer of Wakeman township and a representative of one of the pioneer families of the county, was born in Camden, Lorain county, Ohio, May 18, 1864. His parents, John and Mary (Longeway) Hurst, were natives of Quebec, Canada, where they resided until 1854, when they came to the United States and settled in Lorain county. There in a prosperous farming country they took up their residence with the pioneers, becoming one of them, not only by long residence, but by the substantial qualities of good citizenship. For sixteen years the father engaged in farming in Lorain county, when he moved his family to Wakeman, where they have since resided. There were four children in the family: Pamelia, Noble G., Margaret and Melvin J., all of whom are living except Pamelia. The father died in October, 1892, and the mother May 29, 1907. The three deceased members of the family lie in Wakeman cemetery.

Melvin J. Hürst, the youngest son, who forms the immediate subject of this review, was educated in the public schools of Wakeman. This schooling, together with the experimental knowledge acquired during his youth, as assistant in the general farm work, laid the foundation of his present prosperity.

On January 4, 1890, Mr. Hurst married Miss Jennie Beecher, a daughter of Horace and Fannie (Pierce) Beecher. Both the Pierce and Beecher families were among the very early pioneers of Huron county and were prominent in the development which followed. To the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Hurst eight children were born, seven sons and a daughter: Horace B., John M., Lynn M., Helen M., Harold W., Kenneth, Elten and Charles W., all living at home. After marriage Mr. Hurst farmed in another part of the county until 1893, when he re- moved to the old homestead in the central part of Wakeman township, where he has since resided. His specialty is general and systematic farming, though he raises stock to some extent. He has a farm of one hundred and seven acres and the yield per acre is unusually large under his skillful management. Few farms in the township equal it in productive values.

Mr. Hurst exhibits fine public spirit and is always interested in the affairs of his county. He served a period of three years as trustee of his township. In politics he is a stanch republican, one of the stand-patters, but he takes only such part in the affairs of his party as is consistent with good citizenship, not caring for office. His beliefs are embodied in public improvements, good roads, best of educational advantages, and he insists on an honest expenditure of the public money.

Socially Mr. Hurst is a member of the Maccabees, and in Christian work the Congregational church claims his family's allegiance, the whole family being active workers in that organization. Both Mr. and Mrs. Hurst believe in higher education and the younger members of the family will be given the best. The home itself represents the character and thoughts of the family, being well supplied with good standard and current literature and bearing every evidence of its refining influence.

John C. Ransom

John C. Ransom, who for more than six decades was numbered among the most prominent and respected residents of Huron county, was born in Lyme. Connecticut, on the 11th of August, 1819, and passed away June 4, 1903, when he had attained the age of eighty-three years, nine months and twenty-four days. His parents were Captain Judah and Nancy M. Ransom. The father was of the pioneers of modern navigation on the great chain of lakes, having been the first navigator who sailed to the upper lakes and returned. Those of the early settlers of this county who still survive, well remember the fatal voyage of the Marx" 1840. The boat left Sandusky in November with a cargo of wheat and was wrecked at Point Abino, twenty miles from Buffalo, carrying to a watery grave her heroic commander, Captain Judah Ransom, and his entire crew. Captain Ransom's widow and her children were left to fight the battles incident to life in the Firelands in those early days, the Captain having acquired several hundred acres of land in Hartland township, Huron county, Ohio. The children were three in number, as follows: Elizabeth D., Charles H. and John C.

The last named took up his abode in Hartland township in 1842, and by his well directed and unremitting efforts transformed a timber tract into a productive farm and beautiful home. Surrounded, as we are in this day, with highly developed farms and attractive and palatial residences, it is difficult for those who are enjoying the fruits of the labor of those sturdy pioneer farmers who wrought this mighty change, to appreciate the task of the transforming hand. Coming from stanch New England stock, Mr. Ransom inherited all those noble qualities with which the Puritan was endowed, thus fitting him for the hardships he was called upon to endure. Success eventually crowned his labors and he became one of the most prosperous and influential residents of the county. He owned about one thousand two hundred and forty acres of valuable land and also had other financial interests.

In 1844 Mr. Ransom was united in marriage to Miss Gitty Ann Johnson, whose birth occurred December 28, 1823 in Middlesex county, New Jersey, her parents being William and Lydia Johnson, natives of the state of New Jersey. In 1835 they made their way to Hartland township, this county, becoming prominent factors the pioneer development and upbuilding of the community. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Ransom were born four children, the record of whom is as follows. George W., a resident of Wellington, Ohio, married Miss Olive C. Case, a daughter of Charles and Emeline Case, of Clarksfield township. They have one daughter, Anna E., now the wife of Frederick Frazier, of Pottstown, Pennsylvania. Mary C. Ransom and her brother, Charles J., both reside on the old homestead in Hartland township. John H., the second member of the family, is deceased, having been called to his final rest on the 22d of February, 1899. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Sarah Ann Snyder, was a daughter of Benjamin F. and Mary (Biddinger) Snyder, of Ashland county, Ohio. She stil! survives her husband and the two daughters of her marriage are also yet living. They are: Lena M., the wife of Holland S. Donaldson, of Cleveland : and Mary I., who is the wife of Clifton D. Tucker, of Los Angeles, California. The death of Mrs. Gitty Ann Ransom, the wife of John C. Ransom, occurred on the oth of March, 1892, about eleven years prior to the demise of her husband.

Mr. Ransom exercised his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the republican party but, though a man of strong political convictions, he had no desire for the honors and emoluments of office, for he was quiet and retiring in disposition and preferred the seclusion of his own pleasant home to the glamour of publicity. He was deprived of educational advantages in his youthful years but had such an inherent fondness for books that he easily overcame this lack of early mental training and in later years became recognized as a widely informed and well educated man. Honorable in business, loyal in citizenship, charitable in thought, kindly in action, true to every trust confided to his care, he commanded the respect of a large circle of friends and acquaintances. before stated, his son and daughter, Mary C. and Charles J., now live on the old family homestead in Hartland township - celebrated for its attractive surroundings as well as for its hospitable and refined atmosphere.

5. H. Cook, a well known business man of Bellevue, Ohio, was born in Seneca county, New York, October 22, 1844, the son of Elihu and Lorinda (Hall) Cook. The mother died there two vears after the birth of this son, at the early age of twenty-eight, and the father subsequently came to Ohio, settling in Huron county. He lived here but a short time, when he removed to Republic, Seneca county, Ohio, where he made his home for some five years. From there he went to Michigan, and in Clinton county, that state, his death occurred in 1861, at the age of fortysix. By his first marriage Mr. Cook had two sons: Artemus, who lives in St. Louis, Michigan; and S. H. Cook, our subject. By his second marriage, his wife being Miss Magdalena Burbick, he had two more children: William, who lives at College Place, Washington; and Elihu, whose home is in Bay City, Michigan.

S. H. Cook lived in Michigan some few months after his father's death and then came to Bellevue, where he enlisted in Company D, Thirty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, the First Piatt: Zouaves. His experiences in the war of the Rebellion were numerous and the list of his campaigns, which is a long one, may be summarized as follows: he enlisted at Flat Rock, Ohio, August 22, 1862, joined regiment at Point Pleasant, Virginia, in September ; participated in battle of Buffalo Gap, West Virginia, September 27, 1862; Manassas Gap, Virginia, November 5, 1862; Wytheville, Virginia, July 17, 1863; Averills raid through West Virginia, August 25th to the 3oth, 1863; Princeton, West Virginia, May 6, 1863; Clovd Mountain, Virginia, May 9, 1864; Cove Mountain, Virginia, May 9th and roth, 1864; New River, Virginia, May 10, 1864; Salt Pond Mountain, June r, 1864; Panthers Gap, West Virginia, June 3, 1864; Piedmont, Virginia, June 5, 1864 ; Buffalo Gap, West Virginia, June 6, 1864 ; Lexington, West Virginia, June 10th and 11th, 1864; Buchanan, West Virginia, June 14, 1864 ; Otter Creek, Virginia, June 16, 1864; Lynchburg, Virginia, June 17th and 18th, 1864; Liberty, Virginia, June 20, 1864; Salem, Virginia, June 21, 1864; Monocacy, Maryland, July 9, 1864; Snickers Gap, Virginia, July 17, 1864; Snickers Ferry, Virginia, July 18, 1864; Winchester, Virginia, July 20, 1864; Kernstown, Virginia, July 23, 1864; Winchester, Virginia, July 24, 1864; Martinsburg, Virginia, July 25, 1864 ; Summit Point, Virginia, August 2I, 1864; Halltown, Virginia, August 24- 26-27, 1864 ; Berryville, Virginia, September 3, 1864 ; Opequan, Virginia, September 19, 1864; Fishers Hill, Virginia, September 22, 1864; Strasburg, Virginia, October 9, 1864. Later he was sent to the hospital at Baltimore on the sick list, where he remained until discharged from the army, June 7, 1865. Upon returning from service he came to Bellevue, but remained here only two months, when he went to Michigan, which was the scene of his labors for about three years. From there he came again to Bellevue, where he has lived ever since.

On the 2d of December, 1873, Mr. Cook was united in marriage to Miss Caroline Baughman, the daughter of Hieronymous Baughman, of Bellevue. Mr. Cook's old regiment chaplain performed the ceremony and blessed the couple, such being the wish of the man who endured so much on the field of battle when the Rev. Collier's words of counsel gave added courage. No children have been born of this marriage.

In his youth Mr. Cook learned the cooper's trade, at which he worked for some time, and for a few years he served as a grocery clerk, but it is as the proprietor of a restaurant that he is best known, for he has been engaged in that business for the past twenty-five years. He has other commercial interests, for he is a stockholder and a member of the board of directors of the Bellevue Kraut Company. He belongs to the local post of the Grand Army of the Republic and in the company of his fellow soldiers revives the memories of those four years of fighting. His fraternal affiliations are with the Royal Arcanum, of which he is a devoted member, and in Masonry he holds membership in the blue lodge, chapter and council. Mr. Cook is one of that rapidly diminishing body of men who are living examples of a militant patriotism. an old soldier and for the qualities of noble manhood which he possesses, he is respected among those who

Louis Grine, the owner of a tract of land of one hundred and eighty acres in Peru township, devotes his attention to farming, which George Washington designated as "the most useful as well as the most honorable occupation of man." His birth occurred in Sherman township, Huron county, Ohio. on the 23d of January, 1869, his parents being Alois and Kathryn (Houch) Grine, the former a native of Germany and the latter of Peru township, this county. The father, whose birth occurred in. the year 1840, set sail for the United States in 1861 and after landing on the shores of the new world, he came to Sherman township, this county, where he worked at carpentering for a number of years, having learned that trzde in his native country. Subsequently he purchased eighteen acres of land in Sherman township and later bought more land in Peru township. Doth he and his wife still survive and make their home in Sherman township, being well known and highly esteemed throughout the community as people of genuine personal worth. His wife, who was born in Peru township on the 11th of November, 1846, was a daughter of Lawrence and Kathryn Houch, early settlers of this county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Alois Grine were born nine children, as follows: Emma, who is the wife of August Miller and resides on a farm near Tiffin, Ohio; Louis, of this review; Joseph, a resident of Buffalo, New York; Mary, living in Cleveland, Ohio; Daniel, of Peru township; Peter, who makes his home at El!wood City, Pennsylvania; George, who lives in Washington, near the Pacific coast; Rose, who resides near Tiffin, Ohio; and Edward, of Buffalo, New York.

In the acquirement of an education Louis Grine attended the district and German schools of Sherman township and there continued to make his home until twenty-seven years of age, since which time he has resided in Peru township. In 1882, bought from Eli Ellis the farm of one hundred and eighty acres which he now operates and the many substantial improvements which are seen on the property bespeak his thrift and enterprise. He raises the cereals best adapted to soil and climate and annually garners bounteous harvests as the result of his care and labor in the cultivation of the fields.

On the 23d of January, 1900, Mr. Grine was united in marriage to Miss Isabelle Fisher, a native of Sherman township and a daughter of Gecrge and Josephine (Setterly) Fisher, who were born in Germany, but are now residents of Sherman township. They reared a family of ten children, namely: George; Elizabeth; Joseph, who is now deceased; Marx: Mary; Carrie; Rose; Isabell, now Mrs. Grine; William; and Catherine. Mr. and Mrs. Grine have no children of their own, but have an adopted son, George Eckert, whom they took from the Cleveland Home. à

January, 1008, as a candidate of the democratic party, Mr. Grine was elected a township trustee and is therefore the present incumbent in that position. He likewise held the office of road supervisor in Sherman township for a number of years. Both he and his wife are faithful communicants of the Catholic church at Monroeville and have an extensive circle of warm iriends throughout the county in which their entire lives have been spent.

L. P. Hensinger, mayor of Chicago Junction and also well known in connection with the business interests of the city, being now engaged in real estate dealing, was born in Indiana, August 4, 1863. His father, John Hensinger, was a native of Pennsylvania, and came to Seneca county, Ohio, with his parents, where they lived for a short time, a removal then being made to Allen county, Indiana, where the family became identifed with general agricultural pursuits. In 1866, John Hensinger came again to Ohio and once more took up his abode in Seneca county. He became a prominent farmer, merchant and miller and is still in active business there. He celebrated his golden wedding in 1604, having been married in 1854 to Miss Catherine Newkirk, a native of Ohio. He is a very active man in both business and public affairs and his influence on the life of the community is a beneficial and far-reaching one.

L. P. Hensinger was educated in the country schools of Huron county, where he obtained his diploma, after which he entered the milling business in connection with his father at West Lodi. There he continued for seven years when he came to Chicago Junction, arriving in 1893. Here he built and successfully operated a mill for seven vears, after which he leased it and turned his attention to the grocery business, which he conducted until 1909, when he sold out and embarked in the real estate business. He now has an extensive clientage in this connecticn, handling town and farm property, and is doing a very extensive business throughout the southwest and Canada, while at the same time he is interested in property in Chicago Junction. He is quite successful, displaying intelligent appreciation of opportunities and at ali times keeping well informed concerning property values. December, 1607, he was elected mayor oi Chicago Junction and is now filling the office, giving to the city a businesslike and progressive administration. He has also done other important public service, having been for two vears a member of the school board, while for two vears he served on the citv council and for two years was on the board of public service, his previous official duties well qualifving him for the mavoralty, and as chief executive of the citv he has instituted various needed reforms and improvements. He has been a active politician, and a strong testimonial of his popularity is the fact that he has always received a substantial majority in a republican district although he is a pronounced democrat. He ever has the courage of his convictions, fearlesly advocating any cause that he may espouse.

In 1888, Mr. Hensinger was united in marriage to Miss Laura S. Norris, a native of Seneca county and a daughter of John T. and Elizabeth Norris. They have six children: Alta B., Mabel M., Hazel B., Eula E., Delbert N. and Eva M. The family attend and support the Methodist church, of which Mr. Hensinger is a member. He also belongs to the Masonic fraternity and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Knights of Pythias. His life work has been characterized by continuous progress, whether in private or business affairs or in public service and the many substantial qualities that he has displayed, have won him the esteem, good will and confidence of all who know him.

E. D. Sackett, engaged in the practice of law Norwalk, was born near New London, in Huron county, Ohio, November 7, 1860, and is a representative of an old New England family. His father, D. R. Sackett, was born in Connecticut in the early "405 and, removing westward to Huron county, carried on the occupation of farming for a time, but after a brief period removed to New London, where he lived for many years. He was long connected with the business interests of the town and was a prominent and respected resident there. He served for some time as justice of the peace and was also elected mayor of the city. In 1893, he removed to Chicago, where he engaged in business for a number of years, but later went to the Pacific coast and is now a resident of California. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Mary Jane Washburn, was born in Huron county, a daughter of James Washburn, who came to this section of the state at a time when he had to chop his way through the forests. His father, Joseph Washburn, was one of the very earliest pioneers of northern Ohio and the founder of the Washburn family which is now a numerous and influential one in the southeastern part of the county. The death of Mrs. Sackett occurred in 1892, when she was fifty-three years of age, ere the removal of her husband to Chicago.

E. D. Sackett spent his early childhood under the parental roof, and the schools of Lebanon and Oberlin, Ohio, afforded him his educational privileges. When his literary course was completed, he took up the study of law and was graduated from the Michigan University at Ann Arbor in the class of 1884. He then practiced in Huron county until 1893, after which he went to Chicago to take charge of his father's business, for the father's health had failed. E. D. Sackett also practiced law in the city on the lake and after residing there for a time, went to San Diego, California, where he engaged in the practice of his profession for three vears. In 1898, he returned to New London, where he opened a law office, but in 1900, he sought a broader field of labor by a removal to Norwalk, being engaged on the editorial staff of law publishing department of the Laning Company for a year and a half. On the expiration of that period, he took up active practice, which he carries on alone, and that his knowledge of the law is comprehensive and exact is manifest in the success which has attended him in the trial of his cases. Ernest effort, close application and the exercise of his native talents have won him prestige as a lawyer at a bar which has numbered many eminent men.

In 1889, Mr. Sackett was married to Miss May Johnson, a daughter of Alvin Johnson, and a granddaughter of David Johnson, a prominent early citizen and one of the first sheriffs of the county. Mr. and Mrs. Sackett have one son, Victor, who was born Februarv 24, 189r.

Mr. Sackett is a member of the Knights of Pythias lodge and also of the Macabbees tent. His political allegiance is given to the democracy and he is one of the active workers in its ranks, doing all in his power to promote the growth and insure the success of the party. He has served as secretary of the executive committee and is a good manager and organizer. He is widely and favorably known throughout this, his native county, and his salient characteristics are of that substantial character which everywhere win respect and regard.

Charles Acr Usseee

Charles A. Russeli, proprietor of Maple Hill farm in Wakeman township, was born October 18, 1867, and is a native of the township in which he resides. He is a son of William H. and Emerette (Palmotier) Russell. The father was a native of Huron county and his grandfather, Isaac Russell, came from Scotland as a boy with his parents, who settled in Connecticut. At eighteen years of age Isaac came to Wakeman, where he was married first to a Miss Sisson, who lived but a year and was the mother of William H. Isaac Russell was a shoemaker in Birmingham, Erie county, Ohio, for many years, but farmed after coming to Huron county. William H. Russell learned the cooper's trade and later engaging in the lumber business, at present resides in Shiloh, Richland county, a purchasing agent for a large lumber company.

Charles A. Russell was educated in the Wakeman public schools, supplementing that knowledge by a term at an academy at Collins. He learned the trade of tinner, which he followed for five years, spending a like period of time as a clerk in a clothing store in Wakeman. In 1881, yielding to the call of the great west, he went to Lincoln, Nebraska, where, for two vears, he worked on a stock ranch, with a shorter period in a store in the city. Returning to Wakeman in 1883, he again engaged in clerking, and put in some time at his trade. He then married and settled down, clerking for two years, and then located on Maple Hill farm, where he has since resided. This is one of the choice farms of Wakeman township, containing one hundred and seventy-five acres of splendidly improved land, with substantial and roomy buildings, all new and modern. His residence is lighted with acetylene and supplied with water throughout, as are also all the barns and stables. He engages in general farming, specializing in Merino- Delaine sheep, being both breeder and feeder. He has been very successful, handling large flocks at all times.

Mr. Russell was married December 17, 1889, to Miss Bertha D. Rowland, a daughter of Samuel and Betsy (Wall) Rowland, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this volume. Children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Russell as follows: Iona E. and Gladys A., both of whom are still inmates of the home.

Mr. Russell takes an active interest in the affairs of his home community, supports republican principles, and he served for three years as presiding judge of the township board of elections and also as a member of the republican county central committee. He and his family are members of the Congregational church and are quite active in all its interests. Mrs. Russeil is a lady of superior attainments, being especially gifted as a vocalist. She was educated in music at the Oberlin Conservatory. public appearances, which are frequent throughout the county, leave nothing to be desired in the warmth of her reception. A splendid home-keeper, she deserves credit for much of her husbands success. Mi. and Mrs. Russell are prominent in the social life of the community and are popular with friends and neighbors.

Elmer E. Rowland

Elmer E. Rowland is a most public-spirited citizen who ever has the interest of the community at heart, and he is also numbered among the substantial farmers of Huron county owning and operating a tract of one hundred and twentyeight acres, in Clarksfield township. This farm was located by this paternal grandfather, Aaron Rowland, in 1818, he having removed to this place from Connecticut. When he settled here, this district was all wild and unimproved and much of the land was still in possession of the Indians and wild game of all kinds was abundant. He possessed a sturdy character and with energy and determination at once began to develop and improve his farm.

Daniel Rowland, the father of our subject, was reared to farm life and after reaching years of maturity, wedded Miss Harriet Chaffee. They reared a family of fcur children, one son and three daughters, the sisters of our subject being: Emma, who died March 30, 1853, aged two years and seven days; Celia, now the wife of Dorr Twaddle, a resident of Clarksfield township; and Carrie, who died November 18, 1870, aged eleven years, ten month and twenty-four days. Eventually the father came into possession of the old home farm and through many years was identified with its cultivation. Like his father, he took a very prominent part in community affairs and the early development and progress of Clarksfield township is due in large measure to their efforts. Danie! Rowland departed thi: life September 24, 1881, and he was survived by him wife but a few years, her death cccurring on the Ist of June, 1889.

Elmer E. Rowland was born on the farm which is still his home, March 20, 1854, and was early trained to the duties that usually fall to the lot of the farm lad. In the winter months, he attended the district schools and later spent two years in study at Oberlin College. He then returned home and to the present time has given his time and attention to general farming and stock raising, his tract consisting of one hundred and twenty-eight acres. The land is rich and arable, and the place is supplied with substantial buildings, everything being kept in the best repair.

Mr. Rowland has been married twice. He first established a home of his by his marriage on the 25th of October, 1877, to Miss Eva Lee, a daughter of

John and Sarah (Rood) Lee. To them were born two sons, Ray and Ralph. Both sons are married, the former making his home in Clarksfield township, while the latter is engaged in business in Wellington. After a happy married life of twenty-three years, the wife and mother was called to her final rest, her death occurring June 2, 1900. For his second wife Mr. Rowland chose Miss Theresa J. Woodruff, whom wedded October 29, 1902. She is a daughter of Joel and Lavina (Stout) Woodruff, and by her marriage has become the mother of a little daughter, Ruth May, born August 2, 1906.

A republican in politics, Mr. Rowland takes a deep and active interest in all public affairs. For one term he served as justice of the peace, while for a number of years he has served on the township board of education and for some time was president of the board. He is especially interested in good schools that his children and those of his neighbors may receive the best possible instruction to fit them for the responsibilities of life. His record in public service has ever been one of unremitting and tireless toil, while his farming interests are also carried on with a determination and persistency of purpose that has led to well merited success.

John A. Lee

John A. Lee, a progressive and enterprising farmer of Clarksfield township, is also extensively engaged in the raising and feeding of stock. He was born in Camden township, Lorain county, Ohio, on the 27th of February, 1861, his parents being John P. and Sarah J. (Rood) Lee, both natives of the state of New York. About the year 1833 they were brought to this state by their respective parents, the Lees settling in Lorain county, while the Rood family located in Stark county. The paternal grandfather of our subject was among the earliest settlers in Camden township, Lorain county, where he took up his abode when the district was largely a dense forest in which wild game abounded. He was a farmer by occupation and as such his labors proved an important element in the pioneer development and upbuilding of the community, so that he became widely recognized as a most prominent and valued citizen. John P. Lee, the father of the gentleman whose name introduces this review, also followed carpentering throughout his active business career.

John A. Lee obtained his education in the district schools of his native county and spent his youthful days on his father's farm, assisting the latter in the work of the fields. He was married when a young man of twenty-two years and, starting out as an agriculturist on his own account, has since devoted his attention to general farming and stock-raising interests with excellent success. He raises and feeds stock on quite an extensive scale and this branch of his business adds not a little to his annual income. His farm comprises ninetysix acres of well improved and valuable land in Clarksfield township, and his wife owns a tract of fifty-four acres adjoining.

Mr. Lee has been married twice. On the 19th of March, 1883, he wedded Miss Sarah E. Barnes, a daughter of Alonzo and Lucretia (Granger) Barnes, by whom he had two sons, Walter B. and Clyde M. The wife and mother was called to her final rest in May, 1900, and in December, 1903, Mr. Lee was again married, his second union being with Miss Rose A. Phillips, a daughter of William and Ellen (St. Clair) Phillips.

In his political views Mr. Lee is a stalwart republican and takes an active and helpful interest in all matters pertaining to the public welfare. He has served as a member of the township school board and for several terms capably discharged the duties devolving upon him in the office of township trustee. He is a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal church and exemplifies its teachings in his daily life. He has always lived in this part of the state and is well known and highly esteemed as one of the prosperous and representative citizens of his community.

Nuland W. Lee, a brother of John A. Lee, successfully carries on general farming and stock-raising on his place of one hundred and sixteen acres in Clarksfield township. He is numbered among the worthy native sons of Huron county, his birth having occurred in Clarksfield township on the 7th of July, 1866. In early manhood he learned the bricklayer's trade and followed that occupation for some time in Lorain, Erie and Sandusky counties.. 1900, however, he abandoned this line of activity and turned his attention to the work of farming, which has since claimed his time and energies. He now owns and operates a rich and productive tract of land of one hundred and sixteen acres in Clarksfield township and also devotes considerable attention to the raising of stock, handling sheep on an extensive scale.

On the 26th of November, 1892, Mr. Lee was united in marriage to Miss Rosa M. Twaddle, a daughter of William and Sabra A. (Pixley) Twaddle. They now have two sons, Ira W., and Harry R.

Mr. Lee gives his political allegiance to the men and measures of the republican party and has been a member of the school board for a number of years, the cause of education ever finding in him a stalwart champion. He is serving as trustee of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which his wife is also a faithful and consistent member and they take an active and helpful part in both church and Sunday-school work. They have an extensive circle of friends throughout the community in which they have now long resided and the hospitality of the best homes is cordially extended to them.

Henry C. Godfred, who devotes his time and energies to the work of general farming, is the owner of a rich and productive tract of land of eighty-three acres in Bronson township. He was born in that township on the 27th of March, 1872, his parents being Charles and Elizabeth (Brandt) Godfred, the former a native of Germany. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Charles Godfred were born the following children: Henry C., Frank, Ralph, Louisa and Laura. A sketch of the father appears on another page of this volume.

Henry C. Godfred was reared to farm life, thus early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. On reaching man's estate he chose farming as a life work and now owns and operates a tract of eighty-three acres in Bronson township, upon which place he has made his home for the past nine years. Alert, enterprising and energetic, he is meeting with a well merited measure of success in the conduct of his agricultural interests and is recognized as a progressive and substantial citizen of the community.

In February, 1897, Mr. Godfred was united in marriage to Miss Alice E. Bowersox, a daughter of Benjamin and Elizabeth Bowersox. Mr. and Mrs. Bowersox reared a family of six children, as follows: Alice E., Della, Sophia, Amanda, Hattie and May. Unto our subject and his wife have been born three children: Esther F., Willard H. and Dorothea E.

Mr. Godfred gives his political allegiance to the republican party, having firm faith in its principles and policy. Well known in the county where he has resided from his birth to the present time, he has a wide acquaintance here and has won uniform trust and good will by reason of a life which in all of its phases has been straightforward and honorable.

Henry C. Barnard

Henry C. Barnard, owning and operating forty acres of good land in Lyme township, is well known in this section for the prominent part he has played in local affairs. He is the son of Calvin and Mary (Nims) Barnard, and was born on the farm which is his home today, on the 19th of November, 1841. The father was born at Shelborn, Franklin county, Massachusetts, August 4, 1805, and came to Ohio in 1828, locating first at Elyria, where he helped to build the first courthouse, for he was a carpenter by trade. When he came to Lyme township, shortly before 1835 he assisted in the building of the Lyme Congregational church, which is one of the oldest edifices of its kind in the state, so that by his business, if by nothing else, Calvin Barnard was connected with the early history of Ohio. On the occasion of his first marriage his bride was Miss Hulda Stebbins Cooley, of Elyria, to whom he was united on the 9th of August, 1831. She bore him two children: Betsy Ann, who was born January 16, 1833, and died in the spring of 1887; and Elihu C., born August 8, 1835, who now lives at Whitewater, Wisconsin. The first wife died September 29, 1838, and on the 16th of May, 1839, Calvin Barnard married Miss Mary Nims, by whom he had three chiidren: Henry C., of this review; Luther, born June 20, 1844, now a resident of Decatur, Illinois; and Herman F., who was born May r5, 1848, and died sixty years later, on January 16, 1908. Mrs. Barnard died December 14, 1864 when more than | fifty-three years of age, having been born in April, 1811. Mr. Barnard was a conscientious member of the Congregational church, active in all its affairs and work, and superintendent of its Sunday school for years. In the years immediately pre- ceding the Civil war he took a prominent part in the anti-slavery agitations and was glad to be able to send three sons to the war to fight for the Union. In January, 1879, his earthly course was run and he was given release from earth's cares.

Henry C. Barnard has always lived on his present farm, which his father had purchased in 1834, except during the years he was at school and while he was in the army. In the district institutions of instruction he received his early education, later attending a select school in Medina county, where his brother was engaged as a teacher. At one of the first calls for men during the Civil war he enlisted in Company G. One Hundred and Twenty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, at the school house in Lyme township, and during three years took honorable part in many battles and skirmishes. At the battle of Winchester he was captured and lay in prison at Belle Isle and at Libby, for about a month, when he was exchanged. He served through the whole campaign of Petersburg, and in the first battle at Winchester, Virginia, he was wounded so severely that he had to remain in the hospital for four months. On June 12, 1865, he was discharged at Camp Chase, whence he returned home and engaged in farming, which he has pursued ever since.

Mr. Barnard has been married twice. He chose for his first wife Miss Sophia Carr, a daughter of Samuel Carr, to whom he was married November 22, 1864, while he was home on a furlough. Of this union there were two children born: Mary S., the wife of James Tice and the mother of one child, Ruth; and Jennie C., who is married to Walter Bliss, the superintendent of schools at Bienssville, Louisiana, and is the mother of three children, Mary, Margaret and Henry B. Mrs. Barnard died April 19, 1898, at the age of fifty-four, and October 5, 1905, Mr. Barnard married Miss Alice Rushton, daughter of Henry C. and Mary (Avery) Rushton.

Mr. Barnard is closely identified with many local affairs. For a number of years he has served as township trustee, and by the republican voters of the county was elected county commissioner, to serve from January r, 1893, to September, 1899. He is a deacon in the Congregational church and is superintendent of the Sunday school. As a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, he revives the memories of the days of fighting, oftentimes rehearsing the tales of a notable brave act, and he is a man of many excellent traits of character that have won for him the admiration and confidence of all with whom he comes into contact.

F. H. Laning, capably and effectively filling the position of postmaster in Norwalk, was born near New London, in this county, October 7, 1876, a son of TPE: Laning. At the usual age he entered the public schools, passing through consecutive grades until he had completed the course in the Norwalk high school by his graduation with the class of 1894. He next entered the Ohio Wesleyan University, at Delaware, attending that institution for three years, or until 1897. At the outbreak of the Spanish-American war his patriotic spirit was aroused and he offered his services to the government, enlisting as sergeant major of the Fifth Infantry, on the 26th of April, 1898. He continued with his regiment until mustered out on the 11th of November, 1898, and afterward remained with the Ohio National Guard as battalion adjutant in the Fifth Regiment for one year. Prior to the war he had been interested in military affairs in connection with the National Guard, and the 20th of June, 1907, he was elected captain of Company G, of the Fifth Infantry.

At the close of his connection with the National Guard, Mr. Laning returned to Norwalk and entered the employ of the Laning Company as secretary. To this position he brought the enterprise and energy of young manhood, concentrating his efforts upon the upbuilding of the business. He has always been active in public affairs and has done not a little to shape the political history of Norwalk in recent years. In November, 1903, he was elected a member of the city council and continued' to serve until January, 1905, when he resigned to accept the position of postmaster of Norwalk. This position he now fills, having been reappointed on the 26th of January, 1909, so that his incumbency will continue until 1813. In the office he is proving most capable, discharging his duties with the same business-like dispatch that characterized his cónnection with the Laning Company. He has carefully systematized the work of the office and his promptness and accuracy well entitled him to reappointment. Moreover he is a popular official, being always courteous and obliging.

On the 21st of December, 1899, Mr. Laning was married to Miss Myrtelle Lupham, a native of Akron, Ohio, who died on the 1st of November, 1904. They had one son, Paul F., whose birth occurred October 24, 1900. his fraternal relations Mr. Laning is a prominent Mason, having attained the thirty-second degree of the Scottish Rite. He is also connected with the Knights of the Maccabees, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and other organizations of which he is an exemplary representative, being in hearty sympathy with the beneficent principles which underlie those societies. He is very widely known in this county where his entire life has been passed, and the fact that his record has always been an honorable and commendable one is indicated in the fact that many of his stanchest friends are those who have known him from his boyhood to the present time.

M. R. Coleman, who is conducting a large warehouse in New London and is also operating a flax mill which is proving a profitable industry, was born in New London township, September 26, 1850. His father, Philip Y. Coleman, was born in Steuben county, New York, in 1816, and in 1843 came to New London township with his wife, Sarah Coleman, whom he married in New York. He settled a mile and a half east of New London on a tract of land of one hundred and eighty acres, of which only six acres had been cleared, and there he gave his time and attention to the further development and improvement of the property save for the period of his service in the Civil war when he became a member of the Twelfth

M. R. Coleman gained his additional understanding of reading, mathematics, arithmetic, grammar and other studies in the country schools near his father's home and later continued his education in the New London public schools. He afterward engaged in farming on the old homestead and as the vears passed worked in the fields from the time of early spring planting until crops were harvested in the late autumn. 1880 he began buying and shipping hay, thinking to find it a profitable field of labor and in this opinion he was not mistaken. 1904 he came to New London and has since conducted a growing business, having an extensive wareliouse in which he handles coal, grain, lime, cement, et cetera. He still owns his farm from which he derives a good rental and he likewise operates a flax mill where he manufactures flax into upholstering tow. This is proving a profitable undertaking and his business interests in the different cases are bringing to him well merited and substantial success. For the past five years he has also been a director in the New London National Bank.

In his political views Mr. Coleman is an earnest republican, giving unfaltering support to the principles of the party and while he has never been a politician in the sense of office seeking, in 1890, he was elected real estate appraiser for the township. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias fraternity, becoming a charter member of Carnation Lodge, No. 734, in which he has filled all the chairs. He is diligent and enterprising, progressive and prosperous.

Charles. J. Heyman

Charles J. Heyman, a well-to-do farmer of Sherman township, is the owner of one hundred and twenty-eight acres of land, in two farms, part of which lies in Lyme township. He was born in the latter township, October 18, 1852, and is the son of George W. and Kathryn (Moore) Heyman, both of whom were natives of Germany. The father came to this county with his parents, George and Margaret Heyman, in 1848, and settled at Hunts Corners, where they purchased about one hundred acres of land. Their home there was an old frame building situated where the church now stands and in this house both grandparents passed away. George W. Heyman later removed to Sherman township, where he bought land extensively, until at one time he was possessed of upwards of six hundred acres. He was a farmer all his life and a man of considerable local prominence, for he served as trustee of Sherman township and was active and influential in the Reformed church from its inception, assisting in the establishment of that body, and for many years serving as deacon. His wife came with her parents from Germany to Sherman township, but was not permitted to enjoy many years' companionship with her husband, for she died in 1854, leaving Charles J., a small child. Mr. Heyman survived her for half a century lacking one year and was again married, his second wife being Miss Elizabeth Longscheid, who bore him ten children: George, deceased; Emeline, the wife of August Schied, of Peru township ; Daniel and Thomas, both of Lyme township; Mary and Philip, deceased ; Jacob,

Charles J. Heyman has been a life long resident of this county. He acquired his fundamental education in the district schools here, and also attended for one winter the German school in Sandusky. Farming has been his occupation during his entire life, from the time he was able to help around the home. 1881 he bought his present farm from Hiram Latham and on it has since made his home. However, he has greatly improved the place during the years that it has been in his possession, and it is a fine tract of land well adapted to the line of general farming that he carries on there.

On the 22d of February, 1876, Mr. Heyman was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Scheid. She was born in Peru township, the daughter of William and Kathryn (Beilstein) Scheid, and is the sister to August and William Scheid, whose sketches will be found elsewhere in this volume. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Heyman, all of whom are living: August, George, Lydia, Elmer, Mary and Anna. The family attend the Reformed church at Hunts Corners, in which Mr. Heyman has held various offices for years. A practical and successful farmer, he is also a man of public spirit who has not refused to give his time for the good of the community he serves. He has entered somewhat into politics and at one time acted as trustee of his township, as a choice of the democratic voters. The period of his incumbency of the office was marked by good judgment and uprightness and afforded additional reason for the respect in which he is held here.

John J. Andrews

John J. Andrews, who since 1901 has lived retired in a beautiful home situated in the suburbs of the village of Wakeman, was formerly for many years actively and successfully identified with the agricultural interests of Clarksfield township. He was born in New York city, on the roth of August, 1833, his pa- rents being Thomas and Maria (Goodheart) Andrews. His maternal great-grandfather, John Goodheart, served as a soldier in the British army and after leaving England came to America, making his home in this country until the time of his demise. He lived to be more than one hundred years of age. Thomas Andrews, the father of John J. Andrews, was a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and in early manhood removed to New York city, where he followed his trade of shoemaking. He was married in the eastern metropolis to Miss Maria Goodheart, by whom he had nine children, two of whom still survive, John J. and Elizabeth.

John J. Andrews obtained his education in the schools of his native city and also of Philadelphia, living with an uncle in the latter city. When eleven years of age he went to a farm in Orange county, New York, where he attended the country schools and remained until he had attained the age of fifteen. He learned the trade of a brass finisher but only worked at that occupation fcr two years. Subsequently he entered the employ of a large cooperage company in New York city, with which he was connected for a period of twenty-six years, his long retention in the service of the concern being unmistakable evidence of his efficiency and trustworthiness. 1872 he established his home in Clarksfield township, Huron county, Ohio, and turned his attention to general agricultural pursuits. In addition to cultivating the cereals best adapted to soil and climate he was also engaged in dairying to some extent, both branches of his business returning to him a gratifying annual income. ln 1901, having accumulated a comfortable competence, he left the farm and took up his abode in the suburbs of Wakeman, where he owns attractive and commodious residence.

On the 16th of July, 1856, Mr. Andrews was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Ann Alsdorf, her parents being Hiram and Ann (Vandermark) Alsdorf, who were natives of Ulster county, New York. Mr. and Mrs. Andrews have reared a family of five children, namely: Anna, the widcw of Alfred Newhall; Jesse L., who follows farming in Clarksfield township; Sarah, the wife of Amos Scott, of Norwalk township; Thomas G., who is engaged in the mining business in British Columbia ; and Dora, who conducts a millinery establishment in Wakeman.

Mr. Andrews gives his political allegiance to the men and measures of the republican party and, though not active in its ranks, is an intelligent and valued advocate of its principles. He has served his fellow townsmen in the position of road supervisor and also as a member of the board of education, believing that improved highways and good schools are important factors in the growth and upbuilding of a community. His aid and cooperation can always be counted upon to further any movement instituted to advance the general welfare and he is widely recognized as a most progressive and public-spirited citizen. His fraternal relations are with the Masons and he is a worthy exemplar of the craft. He finds his chief source of recreation and enjoyment in fishing and indulges his love of this sport at the expense of the finny tribe, who bask in the waters of the Vermilion river, which flows by Wakeman. A congenial and courteous gentleman, he has a host of warm friends, and never lacks companions on his fishing jaunts. Both he and his wife are widely and favorably known throughout the community where they have now long resided and their home is noted for its genuine hospitality and good cheer. Mr. Andrews has now passed the seventy-sixth milestone on life's journey and can look back over the past without regret and forward to the future without fear, knowing that his career has been an honorable and useful one.

Chardescas Stower

Charles A. Stower follows farming in Lyme township, Huron county, where he owns ninety-three acres of land, upon which he has made his home for a long period. He was born in this township, December 21, 1871, the son of Thomas and Emma (Dolling) Stowers, who were old settlers in this part of the state. Both parents were born and reared in England, where they were married and where the most of their children were born. In 1870 they came to this country. locating in Lyme township, Huron county, Ohio, where they engaged in farming. At first they rented a tract of land, but in the spring of 1879 they purchased the farm on which Charles A. Stower now lives. When thev took possession the land was in a comparatively rough state, but when death called them, the father at the age of seventy-three and the mother at the age of seventy, the farm showed the result of their long and arduous toil. They had improved it greatly and had increased its productive power, besides erecting several buildings that were a credit to them. Mr. and Mrs. Stower were blessed with a family of ten children. Sabina, the eldest, now deceased, married Robert Rope; John is also deceased; Susie married William White, a farmer of Lyme township: Robert and James were followed by Samuel and William, both of whom have died; Alexander was the next of the family; Anna married Allen Farr; and Charles A., the subject of this sketch, was the youngest and the only one of the family born in this country.

Charles A. Stower has lived all his life in Lyme township and has devoted his entire time to farming. From the district schools he received his fundamental education, which coupled with the training he received at home constituted his preparation for life. During his boyhood days he worked on the home place under the guidance of his father, thus acquiring a practical experience in farming which was to be his vocation in later years when he was called upon to conduct his own establishment. The years passed quickly and in the main uneventfully, though bringing with them their recompense for hard toil.

On the of November, 1897, Mr. Stower was united in marriage to Miss Alice Maud Sherman, the daughter of Joseph and Mary (Farr) Sherman. The parents were both natives of England, though the father was only six years old when he came to this country, and they were among those early settlers who have contributed by their efforts to the development of this part of the country. Seven children were born to them: Elizabeth, Maud, Jennie, Mollie, Gertrude, William and Josephine, all of whom are living useful lives. and Mrs. Stower have three children: Clarence, born March 22, 1899; Gordon, born August 26, 1902, and Bertha, born March 7, 1905. The family are all members of the Lyme Episcopal church and take active part in its religious and social work.

Mr. Stower is one of the prosperous young farmers of his locality. He has not specialized in his cultivation of the soil but has given his attention to a variety of crops which have well repaid him for his diligent labor. Good fortune has attended his eflorts and he has been enabled to add considerably to the improvements his parents made upon the land. He is a man respected and honored in the community and has the good will of those with whom he comes in

Clayton E. Tucker

Huron county has been signally favored in the class of men who have occupied its offices, for the great majority of them have been loyal to the best interests of the community and have manifested marked ability in discharging the duties that have devolved upon them. Of this class Clayton E. Tucker is a representative. For six years he capably served as deputy probate judge of the county and in November, 1908, was elected clerk of the court, his term beginning in August, 1909. At the present time, however, he is filling out the unexpired term of Frank E. Miller and his experience is well qualifying him for continuance in the position to which he has been called by popular suffrage. One of the county's native sons, his birth occurred near Fitchville, on the 22d of September, 1873. His father, Edgar L. Tucker, was born at Miies Strip, Onondaga county, New York, on Ist of March, 1847, while the mother, who bore the maiden name of Mary L. Clark, was a native of Lorain county, Ohio. It was in the year 1870 that Edgar L. Tucker removed to Huron county, establishing his home in Fitchville, where he engaged in the butter and creamery business for twenty-seven years. He then turned his attention to general merchandising in West Clarksfield, where he still continued in business, being one of the enterprising representatives of trade relations in that locality.

Clayton E. Tucker pursued his education in the schools of Fitchville, being graduated from the high school with the class of 1802. He then further continued his studies in the Fostoria Academy, from which he graduated in 1894. He afterward engaged in teaching school in the county for five years, or until appointed deputy clerk under C. D. Miles, in which capacity he remained until 1902 when he entered the probate office, there remaining until M ovember, 1908. At the election held at that time he was elected to the office of clerk of the court, that office being left vacant by reason of the unexpired term of Frank E. Miller. He was appointed to the position and at the ensuing election, was chosen íor the office, his elective term to begin in August, 1909. He has ever been an active republican since age conferred upon him the right of franchise, but in the discharge of his duties he never allows partisanship to interfere, being thoroughly just and unbiased as well as accurate and reliable,

On the 3d of May, 1903, Mr. Tucker was united in marriage to Miss Gertha Dowler, and they have one son, Edgar, who was born April 1, 1904. Mr. Tucker belongs to the junior order of American Mechanics, the Knights of Pythias and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, while his religious faith is indicated in his membership in the Baptist church. In his manner he is unassuming and in his work is efficient, while his many good qualities and social disposition have made him popular with a host of warm friends.

Roswell Derby, Sr

Roswell Derby, Sr., a prominent and well known citizen of Wakeman township, was born in Cherry Valley, Otsego county, New York, on the 16th of August, 1823, his parents being David and Susan (Dutcher) Derby. Both his paternal and maternal grandfathers, David Derby and Cornelius Dutcher, participated in the struggle for American independence as soldiers in the Revolutionary army. David Derby, the father of Roswell Derby, who was a machinist by trade, invented the first wool carding machine ever operated in the United States. It was in almost universal use in the woolen mills of this country until about 1830. David Derby passed away in 1835, having for but one year survived his wife, who

Roswell Derby attended the public schools of his native town until twelve years of age, when, his father having died, he went to live with his brother Morgan, a blacksmith of Cherry Valley. He there worked at the blacksmith's trade under the direction of his brother, with whom he remained until he had attained the age of fifteen years, when he went to Persia, New York, where he made his home with his brother David, who was also a blacksmith by trade. He completed his apprenticeship under the latter's direction and remained in Persia until twenty years of age. During this period he had also gained a practical knowledge of the carpenter's and joiner's trade, at which he worked in the summer months, while in the winter seasons he gave his attention to blacksmithing. In the spring of 1844, he made his way to Ohio, arriving at Cleveland on the 18th of May. He remained in the vicinity of Cleveland during the summer of 1844, being employed at farm labor, and in the fall of that year he went to Newbury, Geauga county, Ohio, where he was engaged in the blacksmithing business in association with his brother John until February, 1845. At that time he removed to Springfield, this state, and purchased a tract of eighty acres of timber land, which he began clearing for farming purposes. During the first summer he cleared ten acres, which he sowed in wheat. The entire region was practically a wilderness and was sparsely settled, there being not more than thirty voters in the entire township. The county seat had been established at Bryan, where a log courthouse was erected. The locality was a most unhealthy one and Mr. Derby fell a victim to the ague but recovered in time to take charge of a school for the winter term.. In the spring of 1846 he went to Lenawee county, Michigan, entering the employ of a Mr. Smith, who operated a distillery. He received a salary of fifty dollars per month, which was considered good pay in those early days and remained with Mr. Smith until the fall of 1846, when he was again stricken with ague and fever. After recovering from his illness he went to Adrian and became agent for what was then known as the Michigan Southern Railroad Company, receiving a monthly remuneration of seventy-five dollars for his services. His health again failing, in the fall of 1846 he returned to his home at Cherry Vailey, New York, where he remained until the fall of the following year, devoting his time and energies to the work of farming. It was in the fall of 1847 that he returned to Cleveland, Ohio, and became connected with the butchering business, engaging in the sale of meats. Shortly afterward he went to Michigan for a time and in 1848 came to Hartland township, Huron county, Ohio, here first working at the blacksmith's trade and later at carpentering. At times he was employed at farm labor by the day and also at other pursuits, proving a capable man in many ways. In 1849 he went to Townsend Center, Huron county, where he opened a blacksmith shop, purchased property and erected a home. He was married in that year and then removed with his wife to Canandaigua, Michigan, where he worked at blacksmithing for a short time. Returning to Townsend township, this county, he was here engaged in blacksmithing until 1863, when he went to Fulton county, Ohio, there purchasing a tract of land and devoting his attention to general agricultural pursuits until 1883. that year he returned to Wakeman, Huron county, and has here since resided, working at various occupations. He was engagec in the coal business for a time and also conducted a mercantile establishment in association with his sons. Possessing a liberal education and being well read in the law, he was also for a number of years engaged in practice in partnership with his son, Roswell Derby, Jr., who is a lawyer by profession. Mr. Derby of this review has continued his legal practice to the present time and is widely recognized as a sound and safe counselor.

On the 27th of June, 1849, Mr. Derby was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Ann Whitcomb, a daughter of Hiram and Hannah (Butler) Whitcomb. Her paternal grandfather, Thomas Whitcomb, participated in the Revolutionary war, serving as what was known as a "cowboy." Hiram Whitcomb, the father of Mrs. Derby, came to this county from Herkimer county, New York, about 1842 and became identified with agricultural pursuits in Townsend township. At the time of his arrival here this district was practically a wilderness but he resolutely set to work, cut down the trees, grubbed up the stumps and soon had his land ready for cultivation. He became widely recognized as a prominent and prosperous citizen and will long be remembered as one of the worthy pioneer settlers whose labors contributed in substantial measure to the early development and improvement of this county. Mr. and Mrs. Derby have reared a family of six children, namely: Hiram W., a resident of Cincinnati, who is in the employ of the Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton Railroad Company ; Muriel, the wife of Elmer S. Hart, of Elkhart, Indiana; Roswell, Jr., now living in Milan, Ohio; Frank, of Fulton county, Ohio ; and Joel E. and Darwin A., both of whom reside in Florence, Erie county, Ohio. The parents of these children have now traveled life's journey together for six decades, their mutual love and confidence increasing as the years have gone by.

Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Derby has cast his ballot in support of the men and measures of the democracy but, though keeping well informed on the questions and issues of the day, has not been active in politics as an office seeker. For one term he acted as justice of the peace in Wakeman township and also served as a member of the board of education, the cause of public instruction ever finding in him a stalwart champion. He has now passed the eighty-sixth milestone on life's journey and receives the veneration and respect which should ever be accorded one who has traveled thus far on this earthly pilgrimage and whose career has at all times been upright and honorable.

John J. Didion

John J. Didion, who owns an excellent farm of eighty-one and a half acres in Sherman township, dates his residence in that township since 1852. He was born in Germany on the 23d of December, 1833, his parents being John and Sophia (Bashob) Didion. 'The paternal grandfather, Gottlieb Didion, spent his entire life in the fatherland. John Didion, Sr., the father of our subject, was a wagonmaker by trade and followed that occupation while a resident of Germany but after coming to this country devoted his attention to general agricultural pursuits. It was in 1852 that he brought his wife and children to the United States, the family home being established in Sherman township, Huron county, Ohio, where both he and his wife remained until called to their final rest. They were people of genuine personal worth and unfaltering integrity, whose upright and honorable lives won for them the respect and esteem of all with whom they came in contact. Their children were five in number, namely: Peter; John J., of this review; Barbara, the widow of Frank Koenig ; Christopher ; and Martin.

John J. Didion obtained his education in the schools of his native land and after putting aside his text-books assisted his father in the wagon shop. Subsequent to his arrival in this country he worked for a time at the carpenter's trade but afterward secured employment by the month as a farm hand and has since been identified with agricultural interests. When his well directed and untiring labor had brought him sufficient capital, he purchased a farm of his own and is now in possession of a tract of land comprising eighty-one and a half acres, which annually returns to him a gratifying income. "Throughout the years he has successfully and energetically carried on the work of the fields and has long been numbered among the substantial, enterprising and representative citizens of the community.

On the 6th of February, 1866, Mr. Didion was united in marriage to Miss Rosella Herman, a daughter of Paul and Mary Herman, who were natives of Germany but became early settlers of Seneca county, Ohio, where they passed away. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Didion have been born sixteen children, as follows: Mary; John and Frank, twins; Charles; August; Martin and Sophia, twins; Elizabeth; Rosa; Cecelia; Susan; Henry; Andrew; William; and two who died in infancy. Of those living all are married with the exception of two, and Mr. and Mrs. Didion now have thirty-five grandchildren.

In his political views Mr. Didion is a stanch democrat, while his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Catholic church, of which the other members of his family are also faithful communicants. He has a very extensive and favorable acquaintance throughout the community where he has now resided for fifty-seven years, and in this land, where labor is unhampered by caste or class, has met with a goodly measure of success in his undertakings. He has now passed the seventy-fifth milestone on life's journey and his has been a commendable record, actuated by honorable principles.

Norman S. Cartwright

Norman S. Cartwright is the owner of an excellent farm of fifty acres in Bronson township, the attractive appearance of which indicates his careful supervision and progressive methods. He was born in Norwalk township, this county, October 23, 1846. The branch of the Cartwright family to which he belongs traces its ancestry back to Colonel Ethan Allen, of Revolutionary war fame. The family has an excellent military record. The great- grandfather served in the Revolutionary war, while the grandfather, Orin P defended American interests against the English in the war of 1812. M . Cartwright of this review was a soldier in the Civil war, while his son PUR donned the nation's uniform for active service the Spanish-American war. The grandparents of our subject were Orin and Lydia (Hunter) Cartwright, both of whom were na- tives of Vermont and of English descent. They went to that state with their son, Milo Cartwright, the father of our subject, who was born in the state of New York in 1815 and came to Ohio in 1832. He settled in Norwalk township and became one of the pioneer residents of Huron county, manifesting an active and helpful interest in the work of public progress as the years went by. About forty years ago he removed to Bronson township, where the family has since been represented. He married Susan De Forest, who was born in the state of New York in 1812. They were married in the east when very young, being only about fifteen years of age. Their children were: Elizabeth, Jane, Charles, Lora, David, Mary, Cornelia; Norman and Emily. The mother, Mrs. Susan Cartwright, was a daughter of Walter and Mary De Forest.

No event of special importance occurred to vary the routine of farm life for Norman S. Cartwright in his boyhood and youth. His educational opportunities were those afforded by the district schools, while in the work of the fields he was busily employed through the periods of vacation. Having arrived at years of maturity he was married on the 2d of July, 1878, to Miss Eva Thayer, who was born in 1852 and was a daughter of Oliver and Eliza (Waggoner) Thayer, who were of German descent. Mr. and Mrs. Cartwright have become the parents of five children: Allen, Oliver, Bertie, Roy and Mabel.

Mr. Cartwright is a member of the Grand Army Post at Norwalk and thus maintains pleasant relations with his old comrades. He was for a year and a half a soldier of the One Hundred and First Ohio Infantry, being on duty with Company K. During that time he participated in several important battles and skirmishes and was ever loyal to his duty. He is equally faithful to his country in days of peace and in every public relation manifests marked devotion to the public good. He has been constable in his township and also has done active work in behalf of the cause of education, serving for fifteen or twenty years on the school board. He usually gives his support to the republican party but in local affairs frequently casts an independent ballot, giving his allegiance to the men whom he thinks best qualified for the office regardless of party affiliations. In his business life he is reliable as well as enterprising and is now engaged in carefully cultivating the farm of fifty acres, from which he annually gathers good harvests.

Charles W. Heyman

Charles W. Heyman, an agriculturist of Lyme township, possessing ninetythree acres of land upon which he lives, was born in Huron county, February 14, 1867, the son of John and Sophia (Upperman) Heyman, who were widely known as early settlers here. Both parents were natives of Germany but came as young people to this country. The father, as a young man, came with two of his brothers and located in this county, where for several years they worked around for different farmers. After a short time, however, John Heyman felt the desire to possess land of his own and bought seventy-five acres near Hunts Corners. It was in an uncultivated state and he started in to clear it and make it ready for a home, for he had already chosen the woman whom he hoped would be his wife. In one year's time the land was sufficiently cleared to permit of living upon it, and to it he brought his bride. The rougher work of preparing the soil for cultivation completed, Mr. Heyman set about improving the farm and adding to it such desirable sections as he was able, with the result that at his death he had a tract of about two hundred acres. He was a man prominent in the Reformed church of Hunts Corners and was among those by whose generosity the erection of the first edifice was made possible.

Charles W. Heyman was the fourth in a family of five children. Of his brothers and sisters, John and Mary, the two eldest, have passed away ; Elizabeth is married to Charles Horn; and William is living with his mother on the old homestead. Charles Heyman has always lived in Lyme township, and in the district school received his elementary education. His practical training, however, was obtained under the wise guidance of his parents, who taught him the lesson of work and the value of character, besides initiating him into the secrets of the cultivation of the soil. He has been loyal to the occupation of his father and has never sought any other vocation than that of a farmer.

On the roth of February, 1891, Mr. Heyman was united in marriage to Miss Sophia Haas, who was born in this county, in October, 1866, the daughter of Jacob and Kathryn Haas, who claimed Germany as the land of their birth. Mr. and Mrs. Heyman have children: Amelia, Gertrude, Laura and Edgar, all of whom live at home.

The farm to which Mr. Heyman devotes ali his time he received from his father, but during the period of his occupancy he has greatly improved it and increased its value. Up to the present he has not deemed it advisable to specialize in his business, but has followed general farming and has been successful beyond the average in the returns he has won from the fruitful soil. In religious matters Mr. Heyman gives his allegiance to the Lutheran church of this township. He also belongs to the German Aid Society of Bellevue and has ever evinced a strong interest in its work.

A. B. Bowen, well known as an enterprising and progressive citizen of Norwalk, where he is now engaged in the general insurance business, has been the architect and builder of his own fortunes. Whatever success he has achieved is attributable entirely to his own labors. His birth occurred in Fairfield township, Huron county, on the 14th of February, 1862. His father, William Bowen, was a native of Tompkins county, New York, and when a lad of twelve years came to Huron county, Ohio, with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Bowen, Sr. The family home was established in Fairfield township upon a farm, the grand father becoming one of the early agriculturists of the community. William Bowen, the father of our subject, was there reared to agricultural life and continued in the same department of activity, being numbered among the representative farmers of Fairfield township until he was called to his final rest in 1891 when seventy-four years of age. His wife survived him for a long period, passing away on the 21st of March, 1909, when eighty-six years of age. were three children in the family, two sons and a daughter, but Caroline died in 1902 and Hamilton passed away in August, 1908, leaving A. B. Bowen as the only surviving member of the family.

Reared on the home farm A. B. Bowen acquired his early education in the district schools and afterward had the advantage of two terms of instruction in Oberlin College. Subsequently he engaged in teaching school for ten years during the winter months. The summer months during that period were devoted to farm work and in 1893 he was called to public office through appointment to the position of deputy treasurer. His experience well qualified him for further responsibilities when, in 1897, he was elected county treasurer and served for two terms, his reelection coming to him in recognition of his faithfulness during the preceding years, and when he retired from office as he had entered it - with the confidence and good will of the general public - and took up the insurance business, he formed a partnership with A. D. Sanders, his deputy in the treasurer's office. The firm has been very successful in this line, writing a large amount of insurance annually, and representing the standard companies of the country.

In 1882 Mr. Bowen was married to Miss Fannie Newbury, a native of Greenfield township, Huron county, and a daughter of Everland Newbury, who was also born in Greenfield township. Mr. and Mrs. Bowen now have one son, Harold, who was born on the 16th of April, 1893.

In his fraternal relations Mr. Bowen is connected with the Masons, attaining the Knight Templar degree in the commandery. His maternal grandfather, Samuel Terry, was a charter member of Fairfield Lodge, F. & A. M., in which Mr. Bowen also holds his membership. He is also associated with the Maccabees, the Knights of Pythias and other orders, being in entire sympathy with their beneficent spirit and purposes. Both he and his wife hold membership in the Baptist church of North Fairfield, of which church his grandfather Bowen was a charter member. Well known in Norwalk, his sterling qualities are those of a progressive citizen, reliable business man and a faithful friend. In manner he is always genial and cordial, ever approachable and courteous, and wherever he goes he wins high regard and esteem.

Elbert P. Beecher

Elbert P. Beecher, an enterprising and successful agriculturist and stockraiser of Wakeman township, was born on the farm where he now resides, his natal day being June 2, 1855. His parents were Horace J. and Fanny M. (Pierce) Beecher. The paternal grandparents, Cyrus and Betsy (Bates) Beecher, came from Bridgewater, Connecticut, to this state in 1836 and took up their abode on a farm in Florence township, Erie county, the property being situated on the boundary line between Erie and Huron counties. This district was at that time still largely wild and undeveloped and the family shared in all of the hardships and privations incident to pioneer life. Cyrus Beecher, the grandfather of our subject, was a bridge carpenter in Connecticut but after coming to this state de- voted his attention to the pursuit of farming. Horace J. Beecher, the father of Elbert P. Beecher, who was a little lad of eight years when he accompanied his parents on the journey to Ohio, gave his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits throughout his active business career. Subsequent to his marriage he came to Huron county, purchasing the farm on which his son, Elbert P., now resides. He was a firm and unfaltering republican and took an active part in local politics, serving as township trustee for several terms and also as township assessor for a similar period. A strong anti-slavery man, he assisted many a negro on his way to freedom in the north, his home being a station on the famous underground railroad. He was a man of strong convictions and sterling character and his upright and honorable career won for hini the regard and esteem of all with whom he was associated. He died on the roth of April, 1893, at the age of sixty-four years and six months, having for a number of years survived his wife, who was called to her final rest in May, 1876. Both lie buried in the Wakeman cemetery. Their union was blessed with five children, namely: Platt P., Elbert P., Julia A., Harriet A. and Jennie J., all of whom still survive with the exception of the eldest son.

Elbert P. Beecher was reared his father's farm and obtained his preliminary education in the district schools of Wakeman township, while subsequently he attended the Wakeman high school and for a few terms also prosecuted his studies at Oberlin College. He was married when about twenty-five years of age, and established his home in the village of Wakeman, where he was successfully engazed in the conduct of a livery business until 1886. In that year he returned to the old home place on which he was born and reared and has here since carried on both farming and stock-raising with excellent success. The property is well improved and under a high state of cultivation, the well tilled fields annually yielding bounteous harvests of golden grain as a reward for the care and labor which is bestowed upon them.

On the 15th of February, 1880, Mr. Beecher was united in marriage to Miss Helen Josephine White, a daughter of Dr. H. E. and Roxanna (Denman) White, of Clarksfield, both of whom are now deceased. The father, a physician by profession, was for many years engaged in practice at Wakeman and Clarksfield and was widely recognized as a prominent and skillful representative of his calling. Both the White and Denman families were numbered among the worthy pioneer settlers of Huron county and took a leading and helpful part in the early improvement and upbuilding of this part of the state. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Beecher have been born five children, as follows: Platt H.; Ethel, who is now the widow of Elbert French ; Clara B., the wife of Charles Ginste, who follows farming in Wakeman township ; Glen W.; and Elbert P., deceased.

In his political views Mr. Beecher is a stanch republican and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, have called him to various positions of public trust. He has served as township constable for four years, as township assessor for five years and for about twenty years was a member of the district board of education. At the present time he is capably discharging the duties devolving upon him in the office of township trustee. He is a prominent and active worker in the local ranks of his party and has acted as a member of the township election board for some years, being connected therewith at the present time. He has also been frequently sent as a delegate to county, district and state conventions and is widely recognized as a most loyal and public-spirited citizen whose influence is ever given on the side of right, progress, justice and improvement. He is a valued member of Wakeman Tent, No. 93, K. O. T. M., and Wakeman Grange, Patrons of Husbandry. Religiously, he and his family are identified with the Wakeman Congregational church, giving liberally of their time and means to both church and Sunday school. The different members of the Beecher family are prominent in the intellectual, social and business life of the community and hold a high place in public esteem.

Edward J. Harland

Edward J. Harland, a prosperous farmer of the older generation in Clarksfield township, was born in Ontario county, New York, February 7, 1835, and is a son of William J. and Abigail (Blakeman) Harland, who came to Ohio in 1838 and settled on the farm their son now occupies. The father was a farmer but was also a man of fine education and before coming to this section had taught school and followed that profession during the first year of his residence here. His wife had also been a teacher in New York state, and the couple ever took a deep interest in the educational affairs of this county. Three children were born to them: James M., Edward J. and Mary E., all of whom are living. The eldest resides in California, and the daughter is now the widow of Lewis Blakeman, of Clinton, Michigan. Mr. Harland died in 1850, and his wife survived him thirty-four years, her death occurring in her eightieth year, on the 13th of July, 1884.

Edward J. Harland was but fifteen years old when his father died, and at that age assumed the management of the farm, which has been under his care and has been his home ever since. His has been a busy life from the day of his father's death and crowded with responsibilities which would have been heavy for a man many years his senior. His education was but imperfect and desultory, such as could be obtained from the district school during the few months it was in session and when affairs at home did not demand his time. At the outbreak of the Civil war his brother James M. enlisted in the Fifty-fifth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and at the battle of Gettysburg, while supporting a battery of artil- his hearing was badly impaired, which resulted subsequently in his becoming totally deaf. Edward J. Harland remained devoted to the arts of peace and stayed at home to care for affairs there. Under his management his farm, of ninety-four acres of fine land, has prospered. It is under excellent cultivation and is highly improved as regards buildings and appurtenances. Of recent years, Mr. Harland, now in his seventy-fifth year, does little more than superintend the work done, but now and again for the sake of exercise and diversion rather than tor any other reason, he will go into the fields and do a good day's work - one too that will put much vounger men than he to their best efforts.

Miss Sarah A. Case, a daughter of George E. and Philinda (Blackman) Case, of Clarksfield township. Of this union five children were born: William J., Jennie

M., Frank E., Bertha B. and Raymond, of whom Bertha, now Mrs. B. McClaflin, of Clarksfield township, alone survives. Mrs. Harland died April 20, 1895, and on the 22d of June, 1900, Mr. Harland married Mrs. Mary J. Noble, who has also passed away, on October 2, 1906.

Mr. Harland has always been a republican and cast his first vote for John C. Fremont for president 1856. He has ever been a man interested in public affairs and has kept posted on all important questions of national and local concern, so that he is able to discuss issues intelligently. He has never aspired to public office, however, and yet his interest and exertion in the general good would many a time have recommended him and secured him election if he had so desired. The strong traits of his character are not unknown nevertheless, and he is respected as a fine man, one above reproach in his private life and in his intercourse with his fellows. |

Henry who is numbered among the prominent and progressive representatives of agricultural pursuits of Lyme township, was born in Sherman township, this county, September 7, 1854. the name indicates he comes of German lineage, his parents, Phillip and Marguerita (Seibel) Boehler, having both been natives of Germany. The former, who was born November 7, 1824, left the fatherland for America in 1848, coming direct to Huron county, Ohio, where he engaged as a farm hand in Peru township for about three years. At the expiration of that period he purchased land in Lyme township, which he later sold, subsequently buying a farm in Sherman township. After operating this land for some time he disposed of it and secured a farm in Peru township. He was a progressive and successful farmer and at the time of his death, which occurred May 3, 1897, in Monroeville, Ridgefield township, this county, he was the owner of considerable property. He had been twice married, his first union being with Miss Marguerita Seibel, a native of Germany, who was born April 1831. After her death June 22, 1883, he wedded Miss Jennetta Knoble. By his first union he became the father of six children, namely: William, Henry, Phillip, Otto, Minnie and Louise, all of whom still survive.

Henry Boehler has always resided in this county and in his youthful days attended the district schools in the acquirement of an education. The periods of vacation were devoted to assisting his father in the work of the farm and thus he early gained practical experience that proved of value to him when, in 1877, he purchased his present farm from his father and started out in business on his own account. His home place, an excellent farm of two hundred and twentyfive acres, is situated in Lyme township and this and another property returns to him substantial annual profits. He has made all of the improvements upon the place, including the erection of a fine commodious residence and the farm is lacking in none of the equipments and accessories that go to make up a model property of the twentieth century. As he has prospered in his undertakings, he had added to his holdings from time to time and his success is indicated in the fact that he is one of the heaviest tax-payers in the township. He owes his success primarily to his own industry and to the intelligent appreciation of his opportunities. He has ever been diligent, persevering and progressive and his ex- ample may well serve to encourage and inspire others, showing what may be accomplished when one has the will to dare and to do.

On January 4, 1877, Mr. Boehler was united in marriage to Miss Louise Horn, a daughter of Phillip and Katherine Horn, natives of Germany. This union has been blessed with four children: Sarah, the wife of William Komdorfer, of this township, by whom she has one son, Clarence; Albert, who married Matilda Schug and with his wife and son, Henry, resides in this township, and Clara and Emma, at home.

Mr. Boehler's religious faith is indicated in his membership in the Lutheran church, while in politics he is a stanch democrat. His fellow citizens, recognizing his ability and true worth, have elected him to office and for six years he served as township trustee, also township assessor and real-estate assessor. Many tangible evidences can be given of his devotion to the public welfare. His fellow townsmen speak of him as the most public-spirited citizen in the county and there has been no man as active in support of good roads. That his labors have been effective is shown in the fact that Lyme township has the best roads in the county and for this Mr. Boehler is directly responsible. His determined purpose enables him to carry forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes and in his labors for the public highways his methods have been practical, resultant and beneficial. He justly deserves to be accorded the foremost place among the citizens of his township for he is an aggressive business man, of keen discrimination, laboring to promote the general welfare as well as individual success. The cause of education has found in him a warm friend, his many sterling characteristics have won for him the esteem and regard of all with whom he has come in contact, while the success to which he has attained along agricultural lines entitles him to rank among the representative farmers of this county.

A. D. Sanders is widely known connection with insurance interests in walk and is also an active factor in financial circles. His has been the progress which results irom persistency of purpose and undaunted enterprise and the salient characteristics which he has always displayed in his business life have formed the foundation of a gratifying success and have won for him an honored name. He was born in Iola, Kansas, September 19, 1872.

His father, Charles M. Sanders, was a native of Peru, Huron county, Ohio, and on leaving this district became a resident of Illinois, where he remained for seven years. In the late he went to Kansas, where he followed farming. He had previously engaged in teaching school in Illinois and in 1874 he returned to that state, where he remained through the succeeding five years. At the end of that time he once more became a resident of Peru township, Huron county, Ohio, where he gave his attention to general agricultural pursuits, bringing his fields under a high state of cultivation and adding many modern accessories to his farm. In 1905, however, he retired from active life and removed to Norwalk, where he is now living in the enjoyment of well earned rest. He married Louise Morse, also a native of Peru township, where her father, John E. Morse, settled at a period when this section of the state was largely a pioneer district. In the family of Mr. and Mrs. Charles M. Sanders are two sons, the brother of our subject being Harry E., a resident farmer of this county.