Wakeman Township (part 6 of 21)

On the 15 of April, 1879, Mr. Beattie was married to Miss Dora Suliivan and they have three sons and two daughters: Blanche, Anna, Walter, Homer and Arthur. Mrs. Beattie was born in Pennsylvania, February 3, 1854, and during her girlhood accompanied her parents to Ohio. She was a daughter of Josiah and Phoebe A. (Hopkins) Sullivan, both of whom were born in the state of New York in 1825. Removing westward, they settled in Ashtabula county, but both are now deceased, and the mother of Mr. Beattie passed away April 2, 1909.

Aside from business and home relations, Mr. Beattie finds time for co-operation in public affairs and has served for many years as treasurer of the board of education, being greatly interested in affairs relative to the progress and improvement of the schools. His co-operation in other lines has also been of equal value for he never refuses to lend his aid and influence when he believes the best interests of the community at large are involved.

Fred Opperman

The farming interests of Lyme township find a worthy representative in Fred Opperman, who owns and cultivates two hundred and sixty-five acres of land, constituting one of the fine farms of the community. It is improved with all modern conveniences and constitutes one of the attractive features of the landscape in which it is located. The owner is therefore justly accounted one of the progressive agriculturists of the community. He was born in Germany on the 6th of November, 1838, and is a son of William and Philemina Opperman, both of whom died in the fatherland.

Fred Opperman spent the days of his boyhood and youth in his native country, having attained his majority ere he bade adieu to his friends and European home and sailed for America 1864. He lived with his father-in-law and motherin-law, William and Mary Margaret Opperman, who were old settlers, and married their daughter, Minnie on the 29th of November, 1865. They became the parents of eight children. Mary M., the eldest, died at the age of one year and eight months. William is the second of the family. Albert and August are both deceased. The latter had a very sudden death when only fifteen years of age. He was a bright young man and had been to town with his father. On their return, when the team came to the railroad crossing, the horses refused to cross on account of cars standing there and August Opperman got out of the buggy to lead them across the car tracks. While so doing, he was taken ill and died in a few moments. Gustave, the next member of the family, died at the age of two years. Pauline is the wife of E. Leibolt, a resident of Attica, Ohio, and they have four children: Walter, Viva, Wells and Bendina. Lydia, the next member of the family, lives at home. The youngest child died in infancy. William Opperman, who is the second member of the family, is also at home and operates the farm. The mother, Mrs. Opperman, came to this county at the age of thirteen years with her parents who settled at Hunt's Corners but afterward removed to the farm upon which Mr. and Mrs. Opperman now reside. Her father purchased here one hundred acres of land and for seven years lived in an old log house, but subsequently he erected a large commodious residence and improved the farm, making it a valuable property. He was born in 1802 and died in 1874. His wife, whose birth occurred in 1805, passed away in 1894, both spending their last days in what is now the Opperman residence. They were the parents of four children: Philip, Mary, Sophia and Elizabeth, all of whom are now living.

The Opperman family are all members of the Lutheran church of Lyme township and are worthy and respected citizens, enjoying in large measure the confidence, good will and high regard of all with whom they have come in contact.

E. K. Fisher is now well known Norwalk as a representative of real estate interests but for many years was identified with mercantile pursuits. He has iived in the county from the age of six years and has ever been greatly interested its growth and progress, co-operating in many of its measures for the public good, while at the same time, he has carefully managed his business affairs. A native of Pennsylvania, Mr. Fisher was born in Northumberland county on the 22d of August, 1849. His father, Isaac D. Fisher, was a native of New Jersey and having arrived at years of maturity, he was married in Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, to Miss Keturah Roadarmel, a native of the Keystone state. They continued to reside there for several years, but in 1855, removed westward to Huron county, Ohio, at which time their family consisted of four sons and one daughter. They lived for a year in Lyme township and then removed to Bronson township, settling on the Judge Sears farm. The father purchased one hundred and ninety-three acres of land, for which he paid forty-two dollars per acre. He was in comfortable financial circumstances at the time of his arrival and always prospered in his undertakings here. He died in 1861, at the age of forty-nine years, while his widow long survived him, passing away in 1895. The brothers and sisters of our subject were: Josiah R. ; Amasa B.; Simon Peter, now deceased; Eugene K.; William B.; Rosanna, now Mrs. Nichols; Mrs. Keturah Snyder; and Mary E., now Mrs. Stiles. With the exception of Simon Peter, all are yet living. William B. is a minister of the Congregational church, located in Kansas.

E. K. Fisher was but six years of age at the time of the removal westward to Ohio and in the district schools, he acquired his early education, while later, he attended the Norwalk high school and the Normal School at Milan, Ohio. His own education completed, he engaged in teaching for eight years in the district schools, following that profession through the winter season, while in the summer months he worked at farm labor. Subsequently, he engaged in farming on his own account, purchasing a half interest ín the old homestead where he remained for a vear. He then sold cut and removed to Townsend township where he engaged in farming for six years, while later he established his home in Norwalk township and engaged in the cultivation of his farm there until 1897. In that year, he abandoned agricultural pursuits and established his home in the city. Here, in 1900, he turned his attention to the real estate business and is still identified with the purchase and sale of property, both for himself and others. He has negotiated many important realty transfers and is thoroughly conversant with the valuation of property and knows what is upon the market.

In 1873 Mr. Fisher was united in marriage to Miss Mary Taylor, who died in 1900. In 1902 he wedded Miss Alice Young, a native of Huron county and a representative of one of the old families here. Her father, Gardner Young, was one of the early settlers in this part of the state. At the time of her marriage Mrs. Fisher was matron of the Children's Home in Norwalk. Fisher has four children: Arthur E., Alfred B., Clavton E. and Retta L., now Mrs. Ramseyer.

Mr. Fisher is a member of the Royal Arcanum and of the Methodist church - associations which indicate much of the nature of his interests and the principles which govern his conduct. He has lived a busy, active and useful life and whatever success he has achieved and enjoyed, has come as the direct and merited reward of his own labors.

Hiram D. Drake

Hiram D. Drake, who is successfully operating seventy acres of land in Ridgefield township, Huron county, is a native of this county, his birth having occurred on the farm upon which he now resides July 7, 1854. He is a son of Salmon and Cynthia (Dickey) Drake, the former a native of Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, born in 1827. In 1846, he came to Ohio, settling at Monroeville, where he engaged in carpentering for some time. In 1849 he removed to the farm which is now in the possession of the subject of this review, and continued to engage in agricultural pursuits until his demise, the only interruption in his business career occurring in 1864, when, as a member of a one hundred day company, he was called cut to serve in the Civil war. In 1849 he married Miss Cynthia Dickey, whose entire life, from the age of two years, was passed on the farm upon which our subiect was born. Her father, Thomas Dickey, was one of the early settlers of this county, coming to Ohio in 1819, shortly after which he was married and removed to Readtown. In 1823 he returned to this county and located upon the present Drake homestead. He was a soldier of the war of 1812 and for a number of years served as justice of the peace of Ridgefield township. He held membership in the Methodist church, in the faith of which he passed away in 1882 at the ripe old age of eighty-eight years. Salmon Drake, who belonged to the Disciple church was called to his final rest on the 3d of April, 1877, while his wife survived neri 1900. In their family were eight children, namely: Eliza J., the wife of George Klopfenstein; Hiram D., of this review; Charles W.; Emmagene, the wife of

Hiram D. Drake, whose entire life, with the exception of a few years, has been spent on his present farm, was reared to farm life and acquired his early education in the district schools of the neighborhood. He later supplemented this training by a course at the normal school at Milan and after leaving school was engaged in teaching for two seasons. Putting aside professional life, however, he took up agricultural pursuits, in which he has since been continually engaged. He purchased the home farm from the other heirs and has since directed his efforts toward its further cultivation and improvement. It is an excellent property in the midst of which, in 1886, he erected a fine large home, while in 1885 he built a substantial barn and has equipped the place with other outbuildings and with all of the modern devices and accessories intended to facilitate the work of the farm. It is a model farm of the nineteenth century and Mr. Drake, who is giving his time and attention to general agriculture, is meeting with most gratifying prosperity.

On the 23d of March, 1887, Mr. Drake was united in marriage to Miss Blanch Killey, a daughter of Robert and Mary Killey, of Ottawa county, Ohio, and this union has been blessed with two children: Louis Earl, born December 29, 1888; and Eric R., born November 27, 1892, both of whom are still at home. Mr. Drake is a member of the Grangers and is widely recognized as a loyal and public-spirited citizen. In this community, where his entire life has been spent, he has gained a wide acquaintance and the fact that his list of friends is almost coextensive with his list of acquaintances is an indication that his salient characteristics are such as command the respect, confidence and good will of all with whom he is associated.

Liston Green

The farming interests of Peru township find a worthy representative in Liston Green, who derives a substantial income from a farm of eighty-three acres on which he lives. He was born in a log house in Richland county, Ohio, October 8, 1849, and is a son of Andrew and Maria (Taylor) Green. His father was born in the state of New York and soon after his marriage removed to Richland county, where they lived for about six years. On the expiration of that period they came to Huron county and settled near New Haven, where Andrew Green purchased one hundred and seventy acres of land. He operated that farm for a time but afterward removed to Huron township and took up his abode near the farm upon which his son Liston now resides, farming a tract of one hundred and eighty acres of rich and productive land, which he transformed into a valuable and highly cultivated farm. He continued to reside upon that place until bis death, which occurred in 1892, when he had reached the age of seventy-eight vears. His wife survived him for about sixteen years and died April 11, 1908. They were the parents of five children, as follows: Caroline, the wife of David Sissinger, of Richland county, by whom she has two children, Mrs. William White and Alvin; Frank, who died in the army at the age of twenty years; Emma, who married

George Lawrence of Michigan, by whom she has three children, Clara, Martin and one who died in infancy ; Liston, of this review ; and Charles who resides in Fairfield township.

In taking up the personal history of Liston Green, we present to our readers the life record of one who is well and favorably known in Huron county where he has lived from the age of one year, his parents removing to this county during his infancy. At the usual age he began his education as a pupil of the district schools and as the years have gone by he has continued in active identification with agricultural interests. He was early trained to the work of the fields, learned the best methods of tilling the soil and caring for the crops and in his farm work has met with substantial and well merited success. As a companion and helpmate for life's journey he chose Miss Maggie Baxter, a daughter of Thomas and Mary Baxter, the wedding being celebrated on the 15th of April, 1886. They became the parents of three children, but the eldest died in infancy, the others being Bertha and Clarence, who are yet under the parental roof.

Mr. Green has resided upon his present farm for about twenty-eight years, having purchased the property from John Trott. In the interim, he has made a number of improvements of a substantial character. He has torn down four old log houses on the place and built two new farm dwellings, and his other improvements are of a modern kind. His first house was set fire by an enemy, soon after he took possession of the place, and was burned to the ground together with all of the household effects, while the family was absent. Not allowing this to discourage him he rebuilt and as the years have gone by has prospered in his undertakings. He now carries on general farming with good success and his place presents a most neat and attractive appearance. His political allegiance is given to the democracy and he has served as a school director for many years, but otherwise has never sought nor desired office, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his farming interests, which are capably managed and are now bringing him in good returns.

He who forms the subject of this review is a worthy representative of a name which, from early pioneer times, has stood as a synonym for excellent citizenship and honorable, upright manhood in Huron county. He was born in Clarksfield township, Huron county, on the 12th of June, 1849, a son of Ezra W. and Maria (Hayes) Stone, who were both born in this county. The grandfathers, Daniel Stone and Surgess Hayes, however, were natives of Connecticut and came to Ohio among the early settlers and here cast in their lot with the pioneers. The land was still to a large extent covered by the primeval forest and the work of transformation had scarcely been begun. With characteristic energy, however, they joined in the work of improvement and became prominent and influential ac. (he community which they resided. Ezra W. Stone, the father of our subject, was also identified with agricultural pursuits and became one of the progressive and substantial farmers of his time. He died very suddenly in 1861 from heart failure, while driving sheep along the highway, but his wife survived until February, 1907. In their family were four sons and one daughter, namely : Philo; Albert; Elsie, who wedded Elmer Henry ; John ; and Eugene. All are yet living.

Reared to farm life, Philo Stone spent the years of his boyhood and youth under the parental roof, assisting in the work of the fields and during the winter months pursuing his education in the public schools of Clarksfield. He remained at home until his marriage, and in the meantime he received excellent training under the direction of his father, learning lessons concerning the value of industry, energy and perseverance. That his early training was thorough and comprehensive is indicated in the success which came to him later in life. After his marriage he took up agricultural pursuits on his own account, locating in the eastern part of Clarksfield township, and in this connection he was actively engaged for twentyfive years. During that period he directed his efforts to general farming, raising the cereals best adapted to soil and climate and bringing his fields under a high state of cultivation. In 1904 he left the farm and removed to the village of Clarksfield, where he has since resided. He still owns two hundred and sixty acres of fine farming property in Clarksfield township, however, and continues to engage in the stock business, which for many years he carried on in connection with his agricultural pursuits. He is an extensive buyer and shipper of stock and also deals largely in wool. In all of the various phases of his business he has been eminently successful, ranking among the substantial and prosperous business men of the township. He has acquired a very handsome competence which enables him to live practically retired, with the exception of the supervision of his livestock interests, enjoying all of the comforts and many of the luxuries of life.

It was on the 31st of December, 1872, that Mr. Stone was united in marriage to Miss Ida J. Rowland, a daughter of Ezra and Catherine (Snook) Rowland. She represents a family which has been very prominent in the affairs of Clarksfield township since early pioneer days, its descendents being very numerous in this district. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Stone has been blessed with one son, William H., a prosperous and well known farmer of this township. He was married on the roth of January, 1900, to Miss Anna O'Hara, a daughter of John and Celia O'Hara, of Clarksfield township, who came originally from Ireland, and unto this union has been born one son, Harry E. William H. Stone is a young man of excellent character, who stands high in the community in which he resides.

Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Stone has given stalwart allegiance to the democracy and has always been very actively interested in all matters of public note, keeping well informed upon the important questions and issues of the day. He has been a trustee of Clarksfield township for many years and has also served as a member of the district board of education. One of his salient characteristics is his public-spirited citizenship, for at all times he is strong in his advocacy of reform and improvement, lending his aid and influence to all measures tending to promote the general welfare and uplift humanity. Although he has achieved prosperity which ranks him ahead of many of his associates in the business world, nevertheless the most envious could not grudge him his success, so honorably has it been won. Square and upright in all his dealings with his fellowmen, throughout his entire business career there has been not a single esoteric phase, and the consensus of public opinion accords him a foremost place among the valued citizens of Clarksfield township, while he is recognized as a worthy representative of one of the most highly respected families known in the annals of this township.

H. Fulstow, the most successful veterinary surgeon practicing in Norwalk, was born in Lincolnshire, England, March rr, 1861. His father, John Dickinson Fulstow, was a native of Lincolnshire and a representative of one of the old families there. Having arrived at years of maturity, he married Sarah Huteson, likewise a native of that county. They began their domestic life in Lincolnshire, where they remained until 1879, when they crossed the Atlantic to the new world, settling in Greenwich township, Huron county, where the father engaged in farming. He had previously devoted his energies to agricultural pursuits his native country and for a long period he was identified with the tiling of the soil in the new world. He is now living retired in the village of Greenwich, while his wife passed away in 1907.

Dr. Fulstow is indebted to the country schools of England for the early education which he acquired, while later, he attended a boarding school at Gainsborough in Lincolnshire. He was a young man of eighteen years when he ac- companied his parents on the trip across the Atlantic to the new world. and on reaching this county he worked on a stock farm for seven years, engaged with various duties in the care of the stock. His taste has always been in that direction and he has never worked in any other line. He commenced the study of veterinary surgery in 1890, in the Ontario Veterinary College, from which he was graduated with the class of 1892. In 1904 he pursued a posti-2raduaie course in the Chicago Veterinary College. Following his graduation be came to Norwalk, where he began practice and has since been located, today having the leading practice of the county. His business, too, extends to several adjacent counties for his professional skill and ability have made him widely known.

In public affairs Dr. Fulstow is also quite prominent and active. He has served as a member of the city council for two vears and has been a member of the board of health for sixteen years. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and he always keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day.

On the 11th of July, 1888, Dr. Fulstow was married to Miss Lina Frayer, a daughter of Ambrose Frayer and a native of Ripley, Huron county. Mr. Frayer is one of the old settlers and has been a prominent man of affairs, closely connected with banking and other business interests in Greenwich, the city profiting by his enterprise, which has been a factor in its general progress. Dr. and Mrs. Fulstow have become parents of two children: Phil. now studying veterinary surgery at the University of Pennsylvania; and Margie. Dr. Fulstow is an exemplary representative of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to Mount Vernon Lodge, A. E. & A. M., and to Huron Chapter, B. A. M. He is a member of the Ohio

Society of Comparative Medicine, an association composed of medical doctors and veterinarians, and he was honored with the presidency of the Ohio State Veterinary Association in 1908, which indicates his high standing in that field of labor which he has chosen as a life work.

Isaac Heyman

Isaac Heyman, a representative farmer of Lyme township, Huron county, is the owner of one hundred and twenty acres of land on which he resides and which he has converted into rich and productive fields that annually yield large harvests. He was born in Sherman township, this county, on the 17th of April, 1870, and is a son of William A. and Jennett (Moore) Heyman, both of whom were born in Germany, the former in 1832 and the latter in 1836. William A. Heyman, when a mere boy of seventeen years, left his home and friends in the fatherland to sail alone for America, seeking opportunities in the new world that did not exist in his own country. Journeying overland until he came to Ohio, he decided to make his home in Sherman township, where he was married and lived the life of a hardy pioneer, for the first two years working out as a farm hand for farmers of that locality. However, having been industrious and persevering, at the end of that time he was able to buy a farm of his own, consisting of two hundred and fifty-two acres, which he himself cleared, adding improvements from year to year. this farm in Sherman township, he resided until his death which occurred in December, 1904, having survived his wife, the mother of our subject, for twenty-eight years. Respected and honored by his fellow citizens, during his life here he filled many prominent township offices, having been justice of the peace for twenty years, trustee for three years and assessor for two years. His religious faith was that of the Reformed church and he gave liberally of his means for the support of a church of that denomination at Hunt's Corners. He was married twice and his home was blessed with thirteen children, namely: Charles; Mary, who married William Boehler; Emma, who became the wife of Henry Bishop; David; Benjamin; Adam; William; Henry; Isaac; Jacob; Clara; and two, a brother and sister, who died in infancy.

Isaac Heyman continued to reside in Sherman township until twenty-seven years of age and in his youthful days attended the district schools, thus acquiring a good practical English education. He has always been a farmer and his early training along that line well qualified him to carry on farm work when he started out in life on his own account. He married Miss Rosa Leiber, a daughter of Philip and Philemina Leiber, both of whom were natives of Germany and became early settlers of Lyme township, Huron county, Ohio. It was on the 27th of February, 1895, at Bellevue, Ohio, that Isaac Heyman was married, after which he began his domestic life on the old homestead farm in Sherman township, where he remained for about two years. On the expiration of that period, he removed to the farm in Lyme township, on which he now resides. He first rented the land from his father, but in 1900, he purchased sixty acres and in 1904, purchased sixty acres more from J. J. Swaby. Upon the place he made a number of im- provements, erected a large barn and keeps all of his buildings in good repair, the neat and thrifty appearance of his place indicating his careful supervision.

Mrs. Heyman was born in Lyme township, May 17, 1874. Her parents also came from Germany, arriving about 1859 and settled in Huron county. They had a family of nine children: Charles, Elizabeth, Louis, Adolph, Henry, Minnie, Emma, Louise and Rosa. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Heyman has been blessed by five children: Robert, Elsie, Irene, Myrtle and Juanita, all born in the home in which they now reside with the exception of the eldest.

Mr. Heyman is a member of the Eagles lodge at Bellevue. He also belongs to the Lutheran church in Lyme township and has been active in community affairs, serving as school director and as road supervisor. Farming, however, has been his real life work and he carries on general agricultural pursuits, owning a fine tract of land which he carefully cultivates and improves in accordance with the most modern ideas of farming.

Ambrose B. Smith

Ambrose B. Smith, diligent and persistent in his business affairs, his capable management bringing him substantial success, is now the owner of eighty acres of good farm land in Peru township. He was born in this county on ihe 13th of March, 1854, at the family home in Greenfield township, his parents being Marcus P. and Liddic (Coy) Smith. The paternal grandfather, George Smith, was numbered among the earliest settlers of the county and became a factor in the pioneer development of this part of the state. He was killed by the caving in of a well in which he was working on the old Simmons' farm.

Marcus P. Smith was born in 1833, and spent the greater part of his life in Peru township. In his youthful days he shared in all the hardships and privations incident to pioneer life and the period of his minority was one of earnest toil for he assisted in the development and cultivation of a new farm. He always carried on general agricultural pursuits as a life work and also engaged in threshing. He was ever a busy and active man, continuing his identification with farming interests until his death in 1895. His wife, who was born in Peru township in 1830, died in 1903. She was a daughter of Henry D. Coy, who was born June I5, 1800, and came to Peru township in 1818 with his father-in-law, Asa Wilson, who owned the place upon which Ambrose B. Smith now resides. It was upon this farm that Henry D. Coy passed away in April, 1892. His daughter by her marriage to Mr. Smith became the mother of six children: Ambrose who died in childhood; Edward, who is living in Fairfield township; Jennie, the wife of William Linder, residing in Havana, Ohio; Alice, the deceased wife of Fred Mitchell; and John M., who is living in Greenfield township.

Ambrose B. Smith has always lived within five miles of the farm on which he now resides. He attended the district schools in his youthful days and in the periods of vacation assisted more and more largely in the work of the fields as his age and strength increased. He has been connected with farming and threshing all his life and has also worked at the carpenter's trade. His skill in this direction enabled him to erect all of the buildings upon his farm, and he has likewise assisted in the construction of many others in this vicinity. His life has been one of diligence and well directed thrift. He purchased the farm from his

On the 8th of December, 1876, Mr. Smith was united in marriage to Miss Alice Jones, a daughter of Isaac and Mary Jones, of Weston, Wood county, Ohio. She died July 28, 1879, and for his second wife Mr. Smith chose Elizabeth J. Schild, a daughter of George Schild, of this county. They were married March 11, 1880, and have two children: Elnora M., now the wife of Amos Eastman, of Peru township; and Herman E., who is living on the home place.

Mr. Smith has been somewhat active in community interests. He served as justice of the peace for two terms and as assessor for two terms, being elected cn the republican ticket. He has also been a member of the school board. He held membership with the Knights of the Maccabees at Havana unti! the tent of that place went out of existence. His time and energies, however, have largely been concentrated upon his farm and its interests, and his work has made him one of the substantial agriculturists of this part of the state.

Joseph D. Frey

Among the successful business men of Norwalk is numbered Joseph D. Frey, a dealer in coal, ice and concrete blocks. In that department of trade he has built up a gocd business and his enterprising and progressive business methods rank him with the leading representatives of commercial interests here. He started upon the journey of life, December 23, 1866, in Ridgefield township, his parents being Benedict and Philomena (Krabach) Frey. The paternal grandfather, Joseph Frey, a native of Switzerland, came to America in 1858 and, on reaching Huron county, purchased forty acres of land, to which he added from time to time as his financial resources increased, until he had one hundred and seven acres. Both he and his wife died on the old homestead farm. Their son, Benedict Frey, was born in Switzerland, and was thirteen years of age when, in 1851, he bade adieu to friends and native land and with his parents came to the United States. They made their way direct to Ridgefield township, Huron county, and Benedict Frey assisted in the task of developing and improving his father's farm, eventually came into possession of the property and made it his home until his death in 1806. He married Philomena Krabach, who was born in Ridgefield township, a daughter of Dennis Krabach, who arrived in Huron county at an early period in its development. Here he engaged in farming and also worked as a stone mason. It was his daughter who became the wife of Benedict Frey and unto that marriage, there were born five sons and two daughters.

Joseph D. Fiey, the eldest son of the family, was reared on the old home farm and was educated in the country schools. When not busy with his text books he worked in the fields and continued to devote his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits until 1892, when he came to Norwalk. He has since been identified with commercial interests in this city. Turning his attention to the ice business, he continued therein for two years, after which he extended the scope of his activities to include coal, concrete blocks and building materials. He has been very successful in all branches of his business and attends strictly to his trade which has been built up by legitimate methods, his enterprise and energy resulting in the acquirement of a large patronage.

In 1892 Mr. Frey was united in marriage to Miss Dora Gfell, a native of Huron county, of German descent. They have become parents of three daughters and a son: Lenora, Esther, Verna and Arthur. The parents are communicants of the Roman Catholic church and that Mr. Frey is a popular and valued citizen is indicated in the fact that against his wishes he was elected to the city council on the democratic ticket in a republican ward. When the people had thus manifested their choice, he set to work to give them the best services possible, exercising his official perrogatives in support of every measure and movement calculated to prove of public benefit. He is a man of strong purpose, giving stalwart support to whatever he believes to be right, whether in political, business or social relations. Since entering the commercial circles of Norwalk he has made substantial progress and his liberal patronage is well merited.

Joseph Hyde

Joseph Hyde, of Townsend township, was active in local political circles and an influential factor in community interests. He was born November 2, 1838, in Milan, Erie county, Ohio, a son of William S. and Adeline (Allen) Hyde, who removed westward from Green Farm, Connecticut, in 1835. The father engaged for a time in the grain and shipping business at Milan, but afterward returned to Connecticut and was married in 1836. He then brought his bride to Milan, where he resumed business, making his home there until 1850, when he took up his abode at Townsend, now Collins. There he engaged in merchandising and in the manufacture of cultivators and for a long period figured as one of the representative business men of the community, continuing to make his home in Townsend until his death, which occurred May 7, 1895, when he was ninetyfive years of age. His wife passed away on the 6th of January, 1882, and their graves were made in the Townsend cemetery. There were four children in their family: Aretta J., Joseph, Thirza A. and William. All are now deceased and lie buried in the Townsend cemetery with the exception of Thirza A., who was laid to rest at Berlin Heights.

Joseph Hyde, whose name introduces this review, passed away on the 2d of March, He had been educated in the public schools of Milan and of Townsend and for a time also attended Oberlin College. He taught school for two years during the winter months and in the summer seasons was engaged in farming. His entire life was a busy one, characterized by devotion to the duty which lay nearest his hand.

On the 15th of March, 1866, he was united in marriage to Miss Emma L. Humphrey, a daughter of William and Sarah Ann (Bierce) Humphrey. Both the Humphrey Bierce families were Connecticut people and the parents of Mrs. Hyde were married in that state. Afterward they removed westward to Parma, Ohio, in 1835. Mr. Humphrey was a millwright and followed his trade in the neighborhood of Cleveland until 1848, when he went to Townsend, Huron county. There he purchased a farm and built a sawmill for cutting his timber and added to his landed possessions as his financial resources increased. In the course of years he became a very extensive landowner and also a large operator in lumber. In fact he prospered in his various undertakings for he was a man of keen business discernment and unfaltering energy. At his death, which occurred on the 22d of September, 1874, he owned one thousand acres of land and had large invested interests besides. His family consisted of four children, three daughters and one son: Emma L., Sarah A., Delia L. and William E. Of these Emma L., now Mrs. Joseph Hyde, is the only one living. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hyde were born five children: Caroline, now the wife of William H. Hurd, of Collins; Mary A., deceased; William H., a practicing physician of Cleveland, Ohio; Eleanor H., the wife of Ernest Hurst, a farmer of Florence township, Erie county, Ohio; and Sherman B., who carries on farming in Townsend township.

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Hyde conducted a general store in Townsend Center for three years and on the expiration of that period removed to the farm whereon their son Sherman B now lives, They made it their home for fully thirty years and on leaving that place in 1900 took up their abode in Collins, where they resided until the death of Mr. Hyde, on the 2d of March, 1901. He was a very successful man, owning nearly five hundred acres of land, and he and his wife together had other financial interests. He was seldom if ever at fault in matters of business judgment and his wise investments and enterprise brought him substantial success.

Moreover, he was well known because of his activity and influence in matters relating to the public welfare. His political allegiance was given to the republican party and he was ever an intelligent advocate of the measures which he espoused. For many years he served as the treasurer of Townsend township, was also trustee for several years and for a long period acted as a member of the district school board. Whatever pertained to the public welfare awakened his interest and if he believed that a plan was feasible and for the best interests of the community he would give it his hearty endorsement and support. He held membership in Townsend Lodge, F. & A. M., and was one of the active representatives of the craft for many years. A man of sterling purpose and honorable conduct, he was highly respected by all who knew him. He stood as a high type of the American citizen who by his own energy wins success and at the same time is neglectful of no duty to the public.

Sherman B. Hyde

Sherman B. Hyde, a worthy representative of one of the old pioneer families of Ohio, now closely associated with the agricultural and live-stock interests of Townsend township, was born November 6, 1875, and is a son of Joseph and Emma L. (Humphrey) Hyde. The father was a farmer by occupation and the son was reared on the old homestead place, assisting in the general work relative to the cultivation and care of the crops. His early education was acquired in the district schools and subsequently he continued his studies in the schools of Collins and attended Oberlin College for a time. He was a young man of twentyfive years when on the 19th of December, 1900, he wedded Miss Grace Sherman, a daughter of Almond and Emma (Bowen) Sherman. Both the Sherman and Bowen families were prominent in pioneer times here. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hyde have been born four children: John; Almond J.; and Grace, who passed away when three years old; and Emma Maie.

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Hyde settled on the old' home farm where he had always lived. This is a tract of three hundred and fifty acres of very rich and productive land and the place is well improved with large barns and sheds, giving ample shelter for grain and stock. There is also a modern dwelling upon the place. The land is tiled and carefully improved and is now under a high state of cultivation. Mr. Hyde also makes a specialty of raising live stock, feeding sheep, cattle and hogs for the markets. His farm presents a neat and thrifty appearance, and he not only finds ready sale for the product of his fields but also finds a good market for his stock.

In his political views Mr. Hyde is a republican, active in support of the party interests. When twenty-two years of age he was elected township trustee and filled the position for nine years, discharging his duties with promptness and fidelity. He has been for a long period and is still a member of the township board of education. He is usually chosen a delegate to the county, district and state conventions of his party and is a man well informed on questions and issues of the day, thus being able to support his position by intelligent argument. He cares little for office, however, preferring to give his time to his private affairs. His wife is an intelligent lady of fine character and the Hyde home is among the most attractive in the township. Both are held in high esteem by all who know them, for their good qualities of heart and mind have endeared them to many friends. Mr. Hyde is practical in all that he does in a business way, and the residence and excellent appearance of his place make this one of the best farms in the county.

Miss Mary Nelson

Miss Mary Nelson, owning and residing on a fine farm of about two hundred acres in Bronson township, was born on this place on the 19th of April, 1870. Her parents, Horatio Perry and Maria (Danforth) Nelson, were both natives of Peru township, this county, the former born March 17, 1830, and the latter on the 1st of February, 1837. John Nelson, the paternal grandfather of Miss Nelson, whose birth occurred in Massachusetts in 1800, became one of the pioneer settlers of Huron county, locating in Peru township with his father, Eli Nelson, in the year 1816. Unto him and his wife, who bore the maiden name of Almira Sherman, were born six children, namely: Fidelia, Mary, Lucia, Elizabeth, Horatio P. and Henry. Aro and Lucy (Taft) Danforth, the maternal grandparents

Horatio P. Nelson, the father of the lady whose name initiates this review, was for a number cf years engaged in the operation of a sawmill in Peru township, but subsequently gave his attention to general agricultural pursuits, continuing as a successful representative of farming interests until called to his final rest. He was likewise a stockholder in the Huron County Bank and in the community where his entire life was spent gained favorable recognition as a substantial, progressive and leading citizen. His political allegiance was given to the republican party and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, called him to various positions of public trust and responsibility. the 8th of March, 1860, he was united in marriage to Miss Maria Danforth, by whom he had two children, as follows: Mary; and Charles Danforth, whose natal day was August 13, 1866. The latter, who wedded Miss Lizzie M. Sanborn, is now deceased, his demise having occurred on the 28th of November, 1900 His widow and her two children, Aro Danforth and Ira Sanborn, now make their home in Boston.

Miss Mary Nelson has spent her entire life on the farm where her birth occurred and which is now in her possession. The place is a valuable and well improved tract of land of about two hundred acres and she derives therefrom a gratifying annual income. She was reared in the faith of the Universalist church and attends its services. Her many good traits of heart and mind have endeared her to all with whom she has come in contact and she is well entitled to mention in this volume as a representative of two of the prominent and honored pioneer families of this county.

Frank Schlageter

Frank Schlageter, owning and operating an excellent farm of one hundred and two acres located in Bronson township, is meeting with most gratifying success in his farming and stock raising interests. A native of Havana, he was bcrn on the sth of February, 1867, and is a son of Michael and Mary (Beeler) Schlageter. The father was a soldier of the Civil war, being a member of the One Hundred and Twenty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. In his family were six children: Frank, Edward, Mary, Lizzie, and two who died in infancy.

Spending the period of hts boyhood and youth amid the scenes and environment of country life, Frank Schlageter assisted his father in the work of the home farm and acquired his education as a pupil in the common schools. Under the direction of his father he received thorough business training along agricultural lines and when he attained his majority and sought to engage in business for himself he wisely selected as his life work the occupation to which he had been reared. He has since devoted his energies to farming and for the past ten years has resided upon a farm of one hundred and two acres of land in Bronson township. During this period, he has directed his efforts to its further cultivation and appearance the thrift and progressiveness of its owner, while his well directed industry, energy and perseverance are finding their reward in the rich harvests which are annually gathered. In connection with his general agricultural pursuits, he breeds cattle, sheep and hogs, and he enjoys a substantial income as both branches of his business - the raising of grain and the raising of stock - are proving successful.

It was on the 10th of May, 1899, that Mr. Schlageter was united in marriage to Miss Loretta Ruggles, who was born in 1860 and is a daughter of George and Elizabeth (Snyder) Ruggles. She was the youngest of a family of five children, the others being: Jennie, Walter, Charles and William. and Mrs. Schlageter have one child, a son, Walter Melville. politics Mr. Schlageter is independent, reserving the privilege to vote for the men and measures which in his estimation will best conserve the public good. He is, however, public spirited in his citizenship and does all in his power to further the substantial growth and upbuilding of the community, while he ranks among the loyal and representative citizens of Bronson township.

William T. Snyder

William T. Snyder, who since 1903 has practically lived retired in Norwalk, was in former years actively and successfully identified with the agricultural interests of Huron county. His birth occurred in Milan, Erie county, Ohio, February 3, 1835, his father being William H. Snyder, who was born in New York on the 12th of April, 1801. He was a harness maker by trade and in 1833, made his way to Huron county, Ohio, thus becoming a factor in the pioneer development and progress of this part of the state. In 1839, he purchased a farm in Peru township and made his home therecn until the time of his death, devoting his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits with gratifying success. He passed away in January, 1885, in the faith of the Presbyterian church, his demise being the occasion of deep and widespread regret.

William T. Snyder was reared on his father's farm, early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist, with which line of activity he was identified throughout his entire business career. Energetic, enterprising and progressive, he met with a gratifying and commendable measure of prosperity in his farming cperations and when at length his well directed labors had brought him a handsome competence he put aside the active work of the fields and took up his abode in Norwalk, where he has lived retired since 1903. He still retains possession of his farm in Peru township, this county, and thouzh now past the seventy-fourth milestone on life's journey, he is yet quite a busy and active man. In 1864, he enlisted as a soldier of the Union army, becoming a member of the One Hundred and Sixty-sixth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and doing garrison duty at Washington, D. C., during his four months' term of service.

In 1856, Mr. Snyder was united in marriage to Miss Sarah A. Perry, who was born in Peru township, Huron county, in 1837. The eight children born of this union, all of whom still survive, are as follows: Clarence E., who is a resident of Indiana ; Mrs. Mary E. Stafford, of Michigan; Mrs. Anna Ketchum, living in Norwalk; Charles P., who makes his home in Peru township; Mrs. Nettie M. Rarison, of Huron county; Sadie F.; Mrs. Laura B. Hoyt, also a resident of Huron county; and Mrs. Florence S. Crawford, residing in this state. There have been no deaths in the family and Mr. Snyder now has twenty grandchildren. He celebrated the Christmas of 1608 by a family re-union, inviting all of his children and grandchildren to the Christmas dinner.

At the polls, Mr. Snyder usually casts his ballot in support of the men and measures of the democracy, but is not bitterly partisan, it being his aim to support the candidate whom he considers best qualified for office. His fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, have called him to various positions of public trust and responsibility. He served as assessor for ten years, was township clerk for fi£teen years and for twelve years acted as justice of the peace in Peru township, discharging his various cfficial duties in a most able and satisfactory manner. Both he and his wife have an extensive circle of warm friends throuzhcut the community, having ever displayed those traits of character which in every land and clime awaken confidence and regard. Mr. Snyder well deserves mention in this volume as one of the honored and representative citizens of Huron county, being thoroughly familiar with its annals from pioneer times down to the present.

Fred A. Beckstein

Fred A. Beckstein, numbered among the successful and enterprising agriculturists of Lyme township, where he owns an excellent farm of seventy-eizht acres, was born in this township on the 20th of June, 1877, his parents being William and Carolina (Longyear) Beckstein. The father, whose birth occurred in Germany, September 20, 1848, came alone to the new world at the age of seventeen years, taking up his abode in Huron county, Ohio. Securing employment as a farm hand, he was thus engaged for about six years and then bought ninety acres of land in Lyme township, where he continued to make his home until called to his final rest in 1905. Throughout his entire business career, he was successfuliy identified with agricultural interests and his upright and honorable life won him the warm regard and csteem of all with whom he was associated. He did effective work for the cause of educaticn as a member oi the schoo! board and was likewise a valued and helpful member of the Lutheran church at Bellevue. His wife was born in Richmond township, Huron county, in the year 1856, her parents, Charles and Mary Longyear, being early settlers of this county. She still survives and has an extensive circle of warm friends throughout this county, where she has spent her entire life. Her family numbers five children, namely: Fred A., of this review; Lewis; William, Jr.; Carolina, the wife of William Seible; and Addie.

Fred A. Beckstein obtained his education in the district and special schools of his native township and was reared in the usual manner of farm lads. He worked in the fields when not busy with his textbooks and early became familiar with the best methods of tilling the soil and caring for the crops. In 1908, he purchased his present farm of seventy-eight acres from Daniel Eichenlaub and has since added many improvements to the property, in the cultivation of which he is meeting with a gratifying and well merited measure of prosperity. He is practical in his methods and his intense and well directed activity constitutes the basis of the success which has crowned his efforts.

In 1004, Mr. Beckstein was united in marriage to Miss Flora Seible, whose birth occurred in Lyme township, October 18, 1878, her parents being Anthony and Mary Seible, both of whom were natives of Germany. The father, whose natal day was May 31, 1834, passed away on the 22d of July, 1898, whilc the mother, who was born December 30, 1837, still survives. Mr. and Mrs. Beckstein have one child, Clara, born on the 3oth of January, 1905. In his religious faith, Mr. Beckstein is a Lutheran, belonging to the church of that denomination in Bellevue. Both he and his wife have always resided in Lyme township and enjoy in large measure the confidence and esteem of those with whom they have come in contact, while the hospitality of their pleasant home is greatly enjoyed by their many friends.

Level Cole

Levi Cole, who is numbered among the progressive and enterprising agriculturists of Bronson township, is a worthy native son of Huron county, his birth having here occurred on the 19th of October, 1850. His father, Lyman Cole, who was born in New York on the roth of March, 1810, passed away when his son, Levi L., was but three years of age. The mother, marrying a second time, afterward became the wife of J. S. Fuller.

Levi L. Cole supplemented his preliminary education, obtained in the country Schools, by a course of study in the normal school at Milan, Erie county. When eighteen years of age he hired out as a farm hand for one season and subsequently took charge of the home farm, caring for his mother until she was called to her final rest on the 2d of February, 1892. He then bought the interest of the other heirs in the old homestead place of one hundred and one acres, which he has since owned and operated, the fields annually yielding golden harvests in return for the care and labor which he bestows upon them. He has added to his landed holdings by the additional purchase of fifty acres on the opposite side of the road, where he resides with his daughter, Mrs. West.

On the 20th of October, 1880, Mr. Cole was united in marriage to Miss Elva T. Boyle, who was born on the sth of January, 1857, her parents being Richard and Eliza Boyle, of Huron county. Mrs. Cole passed away on the 12th of October, 1889, leaving a daughter, Anna E., who gave her hand in marriage to Niles A. West on the 2d of August, 1904. Mr. and Mrs. West have a little daughter, Elva Margaret.

In his political views Mr. Cole is a stalwart and unfaltering republican and has capably served as trustee of Bronson township for twelve years. He was largely instrumental in furthering the movement which resulted in the building of the new stone road from five points south on the old state road, and his aid and influence are ever given in support of those measures which tend to advance the general welfare or promote the country's growth along substantial lines. His entire life has been passed in this county and that his career has ever been an upright and honorable one is indicated by the fact that the associates of his boyhood and youth are still numbered among his stanch friends and admirers.

Benjamin Bourdette Wood

The record of Benjamin Bourdette Wood is such as to make his history of general interest, for he today occupies a prominent position in professional and business circles in Norwalk. Moreover he is a representative of two of the oldest and most prominent families of this part of the state, families whose activity has been a most potent element in the work of general progress and improvement here. His own lines of life have been cast in harmony therewith and his record reflects credit upon the history of the community. One of Huron county's native sons, Mr. Wood was born at Hunt's Corners in Lyme township, October 19, 1870. His father is also a native of the same locality but his grandfather, Joseph Wood, was born in England and became the founder of the family in the United States, where he arrived in 1833. Making his way westward to Huron, he drove from that place to Lyme township, settling on the farm, which continued to be his place of residence for many years. James B. Wood also followed farming in Lyme township for a long period and in 1874 removed to Bellevue, where he engaged in the furniture business and also in the grain trade. He is now vicepresident of the First National Bank, of Bellevue, and occupies a prominent and honored position in commercial and financial circles. He has attained a most gratifying measure of success and the methods which he has always pursued have won him the honor and respect of his associates. He has been quite active in public affairs, and his influence has been no unimportant factor in promoting progress and improvement. His wife, Mrs. Julia L. Wood, was a daughter of Bourdette Wood, the youngest member of a family of five sons and four daughters. He became one of the most distinguished and influential men in his section of Huron county, Bellevue owing much of its growth and progress to him. He was a man of liberal thought, of progressive and patriotic purposes and of undaunted enterprise. As the years passed by and he prospered in his undertakings he became a large land owner and was also the president of the old Bellevue Bank. James B. Wood likewise holds extensive land interests, together with considerable realty in Bellevue. In addition to his other business interests he is a director in the Gilchrist Transportation Company, owning one of the largest independent fleets in the world. He still makes his home in Bellevue, but in 1901, was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, who died on the 8th of June of that year at the age of fifty-four. She was very active in society and in the Episcopal church and her influence was ever given on the side of the right, the true and the beautiful. The family numbered but two children, the daughter being Mrs. Martha

The only son, Benjamin Bourdette Wood, pursued a public school education to the time that he was graduated from the Bellevue high school, while later he entered Kenyon College and subsequently matriculated in the law department of Michigan University at Ann Arbor, from which he was graduated in June, 1892. He began practice in Norwalk in September of the same year and for a short time was in the office of Judge Wildman. Later he undertook the task of building up an independent practice and his success is indicated by his high standing in his profession, the general public and the legal fraternity both acknowledging his ability and the efficiency of the work which he does in the courts. He was city attorney of Norwalk for two terms and he has always been active in public affairs, prominent as a leader in the lccal ranks of the republican party. Aside from his professional interests, he is a director of and a member of the finance committee of the Huron County Banking Company and is one of the receivers of the Laning Printing Company.

In September, 1898, Mr. Wood was married to Miss Harriet Belle Rood, a daughter of R. K. Rood, a man of note in Huron county, who at one time served as county clerk. Her mother, who bore the maiden name of Louise Hadley, was a representative of an old Huron county family and her father was prominent in manufacturing circles. Mr. and Mrs. Wood have become parents of two children: James, born July 13. 1899; and Bourdette, born July 27, 1902.

Mr. Wood is an exemplary representative of the Masonic order and has taken the degrees of the York Rite up to the including that of tlie commandery. He is a member of the Episcopal church and is now a member of its building committee and its secretary. He is also a vestryman of St. Paul's church and his interest in the church work is manifest in many tangible Ways.

Charles W. Parsons

Charles W. Parsons, who is actively and successfully identified with general farming and stock raising interests in Wakeman township, was born in Townsend township, Huron county, Ohio, on the 26th of November, 1853, his parents being Charles C. and Elmina M. (Arnett) Parsons. The father's birth occurred in Florence township, in what is now Erie county, March 17, 1820, while the mother was born in Warren, Warren county, Pennsylvania, on the 13th of May, 1831.

Peter Parsons, the great-great-grandfather of Charles W. Parsons, was a seafaring man, trading between the colonies and Great Britain. About the year 1760, he brought his family, consisting of seven sons and two daughters, to Fairfield, Fairfield county, Connecticut. Five of his sons lost their lives in the Revolutionary war. He was intensely patriotic and at a critical period in the war, after hearing of the death of three of his sens on the same day, he took the weights of his old English family clock and, with the assistance of a son, molded them into bullets, which he contributed as ammunition to the Colonial army. Subsequently

Joseph Parsons, a son of Peter Parsons and the great-grandfather of our subject, served as a soldier throughout the entire period of the Revolutionary war. He and his wife reared a family of two sons and three daughters, of whom the eldest was Aaron Parsons, the grandfather of Charles W. Parsons. Joseph Parsons and his son Aaron left Connecticut in 1811 for the Oliio Firelands, or the Connecticut Reserve. Aaron Parsons only went as far as New York, but his father continued the journey to Ohio and took up the land for himself and his son. The latter remained in the Empire state for five years and while there was married to Miss Betsy Case. In the year 1816, he made his way to Ohio, settling at Florence in Florence township, which was then in Huron county, but is now in Erie county. At that time this section of the state was entirely covered with timber, which had to be cut down and cleared away before the land could be utilized for farming purposes. In 1826, Aaron Parsons established his home in Wakeman and engaged in general agricultural pursuits as a means of livelihood. The remains of the original log house which he built for his family are still standing near the home of his grandson, Charles W. Parsons. Unto Aaron and Betsy (Case) Parsons were born seven children, the record of whom is as follows: two who died in infancy; Electa A., whose birth occurred in New York, prior to the removal of her parents to this state; Julia; Charles C.; Joseph W.; and Mary J. Of these, Charles C. Parsons, the father of our subject, is the only one who still survives. He has now attained the venerable age of eighty-nine years and is in possession of all his faculties.

Unto Charles C. and Elmina M. (Arnett) Parsons, were born seven children, two of whom died in infancy, the others being Charles W., George A., Frank J., Andrew E. and Elmina Mae. are still living with the exception of Frank J., who was accidentally drowned while bathing at Valparaiso, Indiana, on the 25th of July, 1886. He was at that time a young man of twenty-five years and a law student at Valparaiso.

Charles W. Parsons, whose name introduces this review, was educated in the district schools of his native township and spent his boyhood and youth on his father's farm. He was married at the age of twenty years and brought his young bride to the home in which he had been born. In the year 1881, they took up their abode in Wakeman township, where they have since resided. Throughout his active business career, Mr. Parsons has devoted his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits and stock-raising and at times has also been quite extensively engaged in teaming. In association with his son, James C., he owns one hundred and eighty-three acres of fine farming land, all of which is under a high state of cultivation and improvement. He has displayed sound judgment in all he has undertaken and his energy has been one of the potent features in his success.

On the 27th of October, 1873, Mr. Parsons was united in marriage to Miss Deborah J. Brewer, a daughter of James and Lydia (Bracey) Brewer, the former a farmer of Townsend township. Their union has been blessed with five children, as follows: Nora, now the wife of Homer Ohmo, of Washington, D. C.; Elmina, who is the wife of William Felton; James C., who is engaged in agricultural pur- suits on a farm adjoinirg that of his father; and two who died in infancy. He is a young man of excellent business ability and sound judgment and his progressive, alert and enterprising spirit will andoubtedly carry him forward toward the goal of prosperity. the 21st cf December, 1907, he wedded Miss Rosalia Schoettle, a daughter of Alexander and Ursula Schoettle, of Townsend township.

Charles W. Parsons gives his political allegiance to the men and measures of the republican perty, being a stalwart advocate of its principles. He has capably served his fellow townsmen in the position of road supervisot. For almost a century the name of Parscns has now figured prominently and honrably in the annals of this county in connection with its agricultural interests and Mr. Parsons of this review has ever fully maintained the enviable reputation which the members cf the family have borne. He is widely reccgnized as an influential and respected citizen of the county in which his entire life has been spent, while his many sterling traits of character have won him the warm friendship and regard of those with whom he has come in contact.

Delos O. Woodward

Delos O. Wcodward, a member of the firm of Mead & Woodward, of Norwalk, was born on the of January, 1852, a son of Orris P. and Clarissa D. (Fenn) Woodward. The father, whose birth occurred in Lyons, New York, in 1822, was a tailor by trade and during his early business career, followed merchant tailoring. Subsequently he purchased a farm in Huron county, Ohio, in the cultivation and improvement of which he was successfully engaged for a period of eighteen years, at the end of which time he sold the property and took up his &bcde in Norwalk. Here he erected a handsome new residence and continued a worthy and respected citizen of Norwalk until called to his final rest in 1873. On his arrival in this city, he became identified with mercantile pursuits, conducting a grocery establishment in association with his two sons, I. J. and Delos O. Woodward, under the firm style of O. P. Woodward & Sons. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Clarissa D. Fenn and was born in Clyde, Ohio, in 1828, passed away in the year 1866. Unto this worthy couple, were born ten children, six of whom still survive, namely : Dewey A.; Mrs. Lucinda L. Mead ; Delos O., of this review ; Mrs. Laura C. Fuller; Mrs. Ada J. Blair; and Mrs. Azell S. Suydam.

Delos O. Woodward supplemented his preliminary education, obtained in the common schools, by a course of study in the Norwalk high school As before stated, he became associated with his father and brother, I. J. Woodward, in the conduct of a grocery business and subsequent to the death of the father the brothers carried on the enterprise for about fifteen years longer, when it was sold out on account of the failing health of 1. J. Woodward, who is now deceased, his demise having occurred in 1906. After severing his connection with the grocery trade, Mr. Woodward of this review formed a partnership with J. L. Mead, under the firm style of Mead & Woodward, and they have since carried on an extensive and successful business as buyers and shippers of grain, wool, hay, ec, and also as dealers in coal, wood and seeds of all kinds. Mr. Woodward is also interested in real estate on quite an extensive scale and has long been numbered among the prosperous, progressive and most highly respected citizens of the community. He well merits the somewhat hackneyed, but altogether expressive title of a self-made man, for his success has come as the result of untiring energy, good business ability and honorable, straightforward dealing.

On the 21st of August, 1878, Mr. Woodward was joined in wedlock to Miss Harriet S. Mead, who was born on the 23d of May, 1849, her parents being Joel E. and Betsy Ann (Lewis) Mead. By this union, there are two children, as follows: Charles Lewis, who was educated in the schools of Norwalk and in the Cleveland Business College; and Katherine W., who first attended school in Norwalk and then pursued a course of study in Lake Erie College at Painesville.

Politically Mr. Woodward is a stalwart republican and on that ticket was elected to the cffice of township treasurer, serving for two terms. The cause of education has ever found in him a stanch champion and he was a member of the school board for three years, but resigned because of his defective hearing. He is one of the elders in the Presbyterian church and fraternally is connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Maccabees. His friends; and they are many, speak of him in terms of warm praise and good will and his life record shows that he is well entitled to mention among the distinctively representative

Harry W. Snyder

The agricultural interests of Huron county find a worthy representative in Harry W. Snyder, who owns and operates a fine farm of one hundred acres in Bronson township, where he engages in general farming and stock-raising. He was born on the 11th of September, 1865, on the farm which is now his home, and is a son oi William Henry and Hannah (Hinkley) Snyder. The former, who is a son of John and Harr:ett (Watrcus) Snyder, was born in 1835, while the latter, a daughter of Benjamin and Maria (Paine) Hinkley, was born in 1836. Mr. and Mrs. William Henry Snyder are the parents of four children, Harry, Benjamin, Ida and Luta.

No event of especial importance occurred to vary the routine of daily life for Harry W. Snyder in his boyhood and youth, which were spent on the old Hinkley homestead, where his entire life has been spent. He acquired his education in the district schools, which he attended during the winter months, while the summer seasons were devoted to assisting his father in the cultivation of the fields. That his early training along agricultura] lines was thorough and practical, is indicated in the atmosphere of progress and prosperity which surrounds his place today. He now owns the old homestead which was originally the property of his grandfather, Benjamin Hinkley, and which constitutes one hundred acres located Bronson township. He has directed his efforts toward its further improvement and cultivation and the place, which is now in an excellent condition, is one of the valuable and desirable farms of the township. He is progressive and up-to-date in his methods, having equipped the place with all of the modern conveniences and devices for the purpose of facilitating farm labor. He possesses good business ability, which is manifest in his management of his general farming and stock-raising interests, which are proving remunerative as the years go by.

In the year 1888 Mr. Snyder was united in marriage to Miss Sadie F. Snyder, who was born in 1869, and is a daughter of William T. and Sarah Perry, the for- a son of William H. Snyder, and the latter a daughter of Horace Perry, who traces his ancestry back to Commodore Perry, of Lake Erie fame. Mrs. Harry W. Snyder is the eldest of a family of eight children, born unto her parents, the others being Clarence, Charles, Mary, Anna, Nettie, Laura and Florence. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Harry W. Snyder have been born two children, Florence and Dorothea.

In politics, Mr. Snyder casts his ballot in support of the men and measures of the republican party for a close study of the principles and platform of that organization has led him to the belief that thereby the best interests of the community will be best conserved. He was elected township trustee, which office he filled for about seven years, during which period he discharged his duties with promptness, faithfulness and loyalty. Public-spirited in his citizenship, his influence can at all times be depended upon to further all matters having for their object the substantial and permanent upbuilding of the community. In Huron county where his entire life has been passed, Mr. Snyder has won a large circle of friends, who entertain for him high regard and esteem, and he is numbered among the prominent and valued citizens of Bronson township.

John F. Dellinger

In reviewing the lives of men it is interesting to note how many of them continue in the same line of business from boyhood on through mature years, developing their capacities and abilities and gradually accumulating a competency that insures freedom from care during declining years. John E. Dellinger of Richmond township, Huron county, is an excellent example of this class of man, and he has become one of the substantial farmers of his locality, now owning one hundred and ten and one-half acres of rich farming land, all of which is in a good state of cultivation. Mr. Dellinger was born in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, August 27, 1864, being a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Sennett) Dellinger. His paternal grandparents were John and Betsy Dellinger, while his maternal grandparents were Oliver and Elizabeth Sennett, all born in the Keystone state.

Henry Dellinger was a cooper by trade and found employment in Pennsylvania and afterwards in Crawford county, Ohio, to which locality he removed and in which he lived a year before coming to Richmond township, Huron county, where he spent the remainder of his life, dying January 12, 1807. His remains are interred in Union Bethel cemetery in Richmond township. His widow survives. The following named children graced their union: Susan, who married William Rapp and lives in Bellevue, Huron county; William, who lives in Seneca county ; Catherine, who married Edwin Hofford and lives in Philadelphia ;

John F. Dellinger alternated attendance upon the district school with assisting his father, in both Pennsylvania and Ohio, and when but sixteen he left school and engaged in farming, working by the month until his marriage. After that event he rented a farm for three years, when he bought sixty-four acres and owned it for eleven years. Selling this farm, he purchased, 1902, his present property from the heirs of his father-in-law's estate, and it has been the family home ever since.

On February 29, 1888, Mr. Dellinger married Mary Sage, a daughter of John W. and Catherine (Miller) Sage, natives of Oswego county, New York, and Columbiana county, Ohio, respectively. The parents of Mrs. Sage were from Pennsylvania, but emigrated to Columbiana county, Ohio, a short time prior to her birth. Mrs. Dellinger was one in a family of four children, as follows: Julia, who married A. W. Harmon; Sanford; Charles; and Mary, who is the youngest. Mr. and Mrs. Dellinger have had a family as follows: Earl, who was born in February, 1891, and died in 1898; Cloyce, who was born in July, 1894; Edna, who was born in September, 1897; and Ilo, who was born in August, 1900.

Mr. Dellinger's efforts in behalf of the republican party have been appreciated as is shown by his election to the offices of road superintendent, school director and twice as assessor. The religious affiliations of the family are with the United Brethren church, and they have many friends in it as thev also have throughout the neighborhood where they are so well and favorably known.

Ernest W. Bechstein

Ernest W. Bechstein is a retired agriculturist of Huron county, now residing on his fine farm of sixty-six acres in Lyme township. He was born in Wittenberg, Germany, on the 20th of March, 1843, his parents being Louis and Katherine (Strecker) Bechsiein, who spent their entire lives in the fatherland. Their family numbered seven children, namely: Katherine and Julia, who are deceased ; Anna; Ricka, who has also passed away ; Louis; Ernest W., of this review ; Wiiliam, who is likewise deceased.

When a young man of twenty-two years, Ernest W. Bechstein determined to establish his home in the new world and after reaching the United States, he settled near Monroeville, Ohio, working by the month as a farm band for five years. Subsequently, he was engaged in the operation of a rented faim near Russell's Corners for about a year and in 1871, owing to his close economy and careful expenditure, had accumulated capital sufficient with which to purchase a farm of his own. He bought a tract of one hundred and eighteen acres in Lyme township, on which he erected a dwelling and for thirty years, was successfully engaged in the cultivation of the farm, making many substantial improvements thereon. On New Year's day of 1900, he took up his abode on his present farm of sixty-six acres in Lyme township, which he had purchased in 1893, and gave liis time and energies to development and improvement. He also owned another tract of thirty-three acres in.the same township, which he sold, and in 1905 disposed of the oid homestead farm of one hundred and eighteen acres to his son. He has put aside the active work of the fields and lives retired, his daughter Ida acting as his housekeeper, for his wife was called to her final rest in 1900. He now rents his farm but still makes his home thereon, in a fine brick residence, enjoying in well earned ease the fruits of his former toil.

On the oth of February, 1869, Mr. Bechstein was united in marriage to Miss Louisa Donner, whose birth occurred in Germany in 1845, her parents being Frederick and Savina Donner, of that country. Six children were born of this union. William C., living in Crawford county, Ohio, married Miss Minnie Marquardt, by whom he has two children, Elmer and Ora. Charles 1s a resident of California. Ernest, who wedded Miss Minnie Hess, passed away at the age of thirty-eight years. The two children of this marriage, Clarence and Gladys, live on the old homestead farm of their grandfather. Lucy, who became the wife of Louis Hess, has a daughter Frieda. She resides in Sherman township, this county. Ida is at home with her father. August died at the age of eight months.

Politically Mr. Bechstein js a stalwart democrat and any movement or measure instituted to advance the general welfare receives his active aid and cooperation. He served as road supervisor for fifteen years and the fine public highways of Lyme township are the visible evidence of his fidelity and capability in that office. He not only ably directed the labors of the men under his charge but took an active part in the work himself. The cause of education has ever found in him a stanch champion and he acted as a member of the school board for a number of years. He is likewise a prominent and valued member of the Lutheran church at Bellevue, which he was largely instrumental in organizing. He solicited funds for the erection of the edifice and headed the list of subscribers with a donation of four hundred dollars, later adding two hundred dollars to his subscription. Until recently he acted as a trustee of the church but about a year ago met with an accident which prevents him from attending the services. He had a bad fall, dislocating both kneecaps and has since been unable to walk without the aid of crutches. In this country he has found opportunity to give full scope to his ambition and energy and thouch born across the water he is thoroughly American in thought and feeling and is patriotic and sincere in his love for the stars and stripes. For more than four decades he has been numbered among the honored, respected and publicspirited citizens of Huron county and a host of friends are not on'y willing but eager to testify to his sterling worth. |

Clarence L. French

Clarence L. French is a representative business man of Norwalk who possesses much of the initiative spirit that enables him to form original plans, while his determination permits him to carry them forward to successful completion. He also readily recognizes and utilizes an opportunity znd thus step by step he has progressed until the place that he now occupies in the business wor'd is a prominent and substantial one. He was born in Iowa, August 18, 1860. His father, Birdseye C. French, was born in Wakeman township, Huron county, Ohio, February 7, 1833. He has devoted his entire life to farming and is still living on his farm of fifty acres. He was one of the pioneer settlers of this county and assisted in building the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad from Norwalk to Wakeman. He spent about twenty years of his early life in Iowa, returning in 1871, feeling satisfied that Ohio was good enough for him. His wife died in May, 1903, at the age of sixty-six years. The family consisted of three sons and one daughter, but the daughter died at the age of twenty-three years.

In the district schools of Lorain county, Ohio, Clarence L. French pursued his education, for his parents returned from Iowa to Ohio in his boyhood days. He started in business life at the age of eighteen years in the employ of Noyes Brothers, running a retail wagon through the country for two years. He then took up the same business on his own account and continued in that field of labor for about two years, after which he engaged in the wholesale paper and notion business in Norwalk, continuing in that line of commercial activity until 1886, when he sold out. His next step was to form a partnership with James H. Sprague, under the firm style of Sprague & French, for the manufacture of novelties, in which they continued for two years and then converted it into the umbrella business. On the 15th of October, 1896, after being active in the successful management of the concern for some time, he sold out to James H. Sprague and his associates. At that date in connection with a partner, he engaged in the lumber business in Mississippi for two years and on selling out returned to Norwalk, where he began business alone in the exporting of black walnut logs to Hamburg, Germany. On the expiration of three years devoted to that business, he organized an incorporated company under the name of the French Lumber Company, capitalized for thirty thousand dollars with a volume of business amounting to fifty thousand dollars annually. Their operating field was principally in West Virginia, although in any state where it could be obtained they bought black walnut for exportation.

In August, 1907, Mr. French became manager of the Norwalk Vault Company, of Norwalk, which had been incorporated about a year before, but was doing but little business. French then took full charge of the business in constructing the national steel re-inforced water proof cement vault and nauonal cement mould for the manufacturers in other localities. Through their methods they now handle a water-proofing powder cement which positively excludes all dampness or moisture coming in contact with the body, and the vault when prepared for burial is properly sealed with this waterproof cement and the body will remain intact for ages. Their business extends practically over the whole of the United States. 'They also have a concern in Missouri which looks after their western business. When Mr. French took hold of this business as its general manager, it was in its infancy and since he assumed the management, he has brought the volume of business up to about seventy-five thousand dollars annually. These moulds are sold outright and the company receives a royalty for the product. Although the enterprise is a comparatively new one, it is rapidly on the increase and under the management of Mr. French, it is destined to be one of the most prosperous business concerns in Norwalk. It is capitalized for dollars worth of moulds at the present time and all the time the patronage is growing. Mr. French is a stockholder in the business and in being put to the front to produce results, has proven himself master of the situation.

In September, 1885, Mr. French was united in marriage to Miss Ella Cunningham, who was born in East Norwalk in February, 1865. They became the parents of two children: Ada M., who was born October 20, 1886, and is now the wife of Thomas Diamon, by whom she has one child, Sherman Diamon; and Warren S.

In his fraternal relations, Mr. French is an Odd Fellow and his political support is given to the republican party, while his religious faith is that cf the Methodist church. He has been pre-eminently a man of affairs, active and alert in business, and commencing at the bottom, has continuously worked his way upward, his record being one of honor and success.

Nist Hansen

Nis T. Hansen, a successful and enterprising agriculturist of Lyme township, where he owns an excellent farm of fifty-one and a half acres, was born in Denraark on the 15th of September, 1848. His parents, Carson 5. and Mary (1hompson) Hansen, passed away at the ages fifty-five and seventy-seven years respec- üvely. Their family numbered seven children, namely: Carson; Anna, who is deceased ; Nis T., of this review ; Christina and John, who have likewise been called to their final rest; Sophia; and John.

In the year 1882, when thirty-four years of age, Nis T. Hansen determined to seek his fortune in the new world and, crossing the Atlantic to the United States, located at Port Clinton, Ohio, where he worked as a farm hand for three years. Subsequently he took up his abode in Sandusky county, Ohio, where he was engaged in the work of the fields for a similar period and then rented a tract of land in Seneca county, Ohio, continuing its cultivation for fifteen years. At the end of that time, by dint of close economy and careful expenditure, he had accumulated capital sufficient to enable him to purchase a farm of his own and in 1904 he bought his present place of fifty-one and a half acres in Lyme township, Huron county, from G. G. Patten. His efforts as an agriculturist have been attended with a Er commendable and well deserved measure of prosperity, for the methods which he follows are practical and at the same time i ing with i e p in keeping with ideas of

In 1872 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Hansen and Miss Christina Jensen and by this union there have been born eight children. Charles, living in Lyme township, wedded Miss Clesta Weiker, by whom he has four children: Carl, Gordon, Edgar and Lewis. Margaret, who became the wife of Michael Kistler, resides near Clyde, Ohio. They have five children: Allen, Bessie, Lawrence Ralph. John, of Seneca county, Ohio, married Miss Jennie succi and nas three children: Walter, Nora and Margaret. Mary, who gave her hand in marriage to Henry Zimmerman, has one child, Helen. They make their home at

Cleveland, Ohio. Peter, Anna, Adeline and Jennie are the four youngest children of Mr. and Mrs. Hansen. The different members of the family all belong to the Lutheran church and are highly esteemed throughout the community in which they reside. The hope that led Mr. Hansen to leave his native land and seek a home in America has been more than. realized. He found the opportunities he sought, - which, by the way, are always open to the ambitious, energetic man, - and making the best of these he has steadily worked his way upward.

Mrs. Julia Josephine Russell

Mrs. Taha Josephine Russell, the widow of William Charles Russell, now owns a valuable and well improved farm of one hundred and twelve acres in Fairfield township. Her birth occurred in Ripley township, Huron county, Ohio, on the 8th of October, 1853, her parents being George and Sarah Hayten Hyde Blackmore. The father was born in England on the 11th of November, 1807, while the mother's birth occurred in that country on the 11th of August, 1821. Their marriage was celebrated in Derby county, England, on the 20 of September, 1841, and on the 4th of June, 1849, they set sail for the United States, arriving in New York on the 20th of July. They at once made their way to this state and took up their abode in Sandusky but after a short time came to Fairfield township, Huron county, and subsequently established their home in Ripley township, where they spent the remainder of their lives. Unto this worthy couple were born the following children: Faniza Ellen, Julia Josephine, Lucy A., Annie, Sarah, Priscilla, Thomas Hyde, Isaac, William George and Walter.

On the 6th of January, 1886, Julia Josephine Blackmore gave her hand in marriaze to William Charles Russell, who was born in Ripley township, Huron county, on the 8th April, 1858, and was a son of John A. and Mary (Lewis) Russell, the former a native of New York and the latter also born in the east. In early life they accompanied their respective parents on the journey to this county. Mr. and Mrs. John A. Russell reared a family of nine children, namely: George Wilbur, Homer J., Adeline, Rebecca Jane, William Charles, Stephen D., Emma, Fred and Martha. Unto William Charles and Julia Josephine (Blackmore) Russell were horn two children: George A., whose birth occurred May 20, 1894; and Mary Blackmore, who first opened her eyes to the light of day on the 12th of February, 1897.

Mrs. Russell has made her home on the farm where she now resides since 1899, the place comprising one hundred and twelve acres of rich and productive land. Her husband, who was successfully identified with general agricultural pursuits throughout his active business career, was called to his final rest on the of July, 1907, his death being the occasion of deep and widespread regret. He was a devoted and consistent member of the Disciple church at North Fairfield, while fraternally he was identified with the Maccabees. His political allegiance was given to the republican party and he capably served his fellow townsmen in the positions of school director and road supervisor. He was well known and highly esteemed throughout the community in which his entire life was spent, being num- bered among its enterprising and progressive agriculturists as well as public-spirited citizens. His widow has likewise been a resident of this county from het birth to the present time and, being a lady of many excellent traits of heart and mind, has gained an extensive circle of friends within its borders. She is an exemplary and faithful member of the Disciple church of North Fairfield.

Eugene Peck Silliman

Eugene Peck Silliman, owning and operating a well improved farm of one hundred and sixteen acres on the outskirts of North Fairfield, was born on the place where he now resides, his natal day being April 16, 1849. His parents, George and Lydia (Peck) Silliman, were natives of Connecticut and New York respectively, the former born about 1815 and the latter on the 27th of January, 1817. The paternal grandparents of our subject were Joseph and Lucinda (Banks) Silliman, the former a native of Connecticut. Isaac and Amy (Carlisle) Peck, the maternal grandparents of Eugene P. Silliman, were born in the years 1777 and 1790, respectively. Their marriage was celebrated in 1808 and they reared the following children: William, Lucy, Isaac, Lydia, Matthew, Eli, Cornelius, Lyman, James, Henry and Lucinda. Isaac Peck, the maternal grandfather, passed away in 1841, while his wife was called to her final rest in 1877.

As above stated, Eugene P. Silliman is now the owner of a fine farm of one hundred and sixteen acres on the outskirts of North Fairfield, to the cultivation and improvement of which he devotes his time and energies. He raises the cereals best adapted to soil and climate, so that he annually gathers and markets good harvests. Energetic, industrious and enterprising, he has won a gratifying measure of prosperity in the conduct of his agricultural interests and has long been numbered among the substantial farmers and representative citizens of his native county.

On the 2d of January, 1878, Mr. Silliman was united in marriage to Miss Roxana Bates, whose birth occurred in Montgomery county, New York, on the 18th of January, 1853, her parents being James and Amanda (Bellinger) Bates. The father, who was born in Herkimer county, New York, in 1816, passed away in 188:. The mother was born on the 23d of December, 1820. The paternal grandparents of Mrs. Silliman were Jacob and Polly (Smith) Bates, born in the years 1777 and 1783 respectively. The former died in 1859 and was survived by his wife for but three years, her demise occurring in 1862. The maternal grandparents of Mrs. Silliman were John and Elizabeth Bellinger. Her great-grandfather, Frederick Bellinger, served as a lieutenant colonel in the Revolutionary war. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Silliman have been born three children. Maud E., the eldest, whose birth occurred April 22, 1879, is now the wife of Frank P. Whitney, superintendent of schools at Collinwood. They have two children, Charles and Elizabeth. Floyd Silliman, who was born on the 12th of February, 1881, is now a bookkeeper in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Fay, born on the 31st of October, 1890, is in Portland, Oregon.

Politically, Mr. Silliman is a stalwart advocate of the republican party and for six years has acted as trustee of the school board. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Congregational church, in which he is serving as deacon. Fraternally, he is identified with the National Insurance Union. He has spent his entire life in this county and is therefore widely and favorably known, commanding the high regard of all with whom he has been associated.