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AUBURN.
BY S. S. WADSWORTH.
PHYSICAL FEATURES.
The geographical position of Auburn township is as follows: It is one of the south tier of townships in Geauga county, and is bounded, on the north, by Newbury; east, by Troy; south, by Mantau, and west, by Bainbridge. It was surveyed in an early day, and divided into three tracts—numbers one, two and three—extending east and west across the township. In tract number one was the Mills tract, in the northeast corner; next, was the Sanford tract; next, the Darling tract; and next, in the northwest corner, was another Mills tract. In tract number two, on the east, was the Cowles tract; next the Ely tract; next, the Kirtland tract; next, the Root tract; and next, reaching to the west line of the township, was the Miller tract. Tract number three, consisting of the south third of the township, was called the Atwater tract; the entire tract being owned by minor heirs, by the name of Atwater.
This township is probably one of the best and most healthy in the county. The soil, generally, is clay loam; but along the streams is a sandy or gravely soil, and very productive. There are no lakes, ponds or marshes, and consequently no waste land. It descends gradually to the south and east, except a small territory in the southwest corner, which descends to the west; so that a small stream rising in that vicinity runs westerly, and empties into the Chagrin river. The principle stream of water in the township is known as Bridge creek, one branch of which rises in the northwest part of the township, and the other rises in Newbury, and makes into Auburn a short distance east of the north and south center road; takes a southwesterly course, and crosses the road a short distance north of the center, and, continuing about the same course, crosses the east and west center road a short distance west of the center, and unites with the branch rising in the northeast part of the township; thence, continuing its course in a south, and easterly direction, until it crosses the State road, one mile south of the corners, and from that point, takes a northwesterly direction, and again crosses the east and west centre road, east of the corners, and continuing in a northeasterly direction, crosses the east line of the township into Troy, about one mile north of the center road, and continues nearly in the same direction until it empties into the Cuyahoga river, near the north line of that township. There are several very good mill seats on this stream, only one of which is now occupied. There is another stream, known as Middle brook, which rises in the south part of the township, and runs in a northeasterly direction, and empties into Bridge creek a short distance east of the State road. There is also another stream, known as Black brook, which makes into the township from Mantau; crossing the south line about eighty rods east of the State road, and, after running a short distance in a northerly direction, strikes off east, keeping about the same distance from the south line of the township, until it crosses the east line into Troy. This, also, is one of the tributaries of the Cuyahoga river, which empties its waters into Lake Erie, at Cleveland, Ohio.
This township, as found by the early settlers, was covered with a very heavy growth of timber, consisting of beach, sugar-maple, walnut, white, black, yellow
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and red oak; whitewood, cucumber, white and black ash, butternut, black walnut, bird:), cherry, poplar, basswood, white and red elm, chestnut, and sassafras.
SETTLERS.
Bildad Bradley was born in Massachusetts in 1780, and was married about 1809, to Emily Veasy, and they had four children; two died young. The names of the two living are Emily and William. Emily was born in Massachusetts, William in Auburn.
Mr. Bradley came to Newbury about 1812 or 1813, and settled near where D. M. Allen now resides, and in the fall of 1814 he built a house on the Mills tract, on the north line of the township, or, rather, rolled up the logs for a house; and after doing so found he had built on the wrong lot, and in the spring of 1815 he took it down, moved it farther west, finished it up, and moved in. This wits the first house built in the township. Where he first built was on the State road, as afterwards laid out. Mr. Bradley helped lay out the State road, and carried the front end of the chain. Said road was surveyed by Wilbard Beals. Mr. Bradley cleared up his farm and built the necessary buildings for comfort and convenience. Mrs. Bradley died on the same farm in 1859, aged seventy-seven years. Mr. Bradley died in 1865, aged eighty-five years. Thus passed away the two first settlers of the township. This farm is one of two farms in Auburn that is now occupied by the third and fourth generation.
Abner Colvin was born in the State of New York in 1795, came to Auburn about 1827 or 1828, and was married about 1830 to Emily Bradley, daughter of Bildad Bradley. They had eight children, whose names were Alonzo, Milan, Alice, Lorinda, Millie, Mary, Myra, and Mina—the last two were twins. Mr. Colvin first settled on the Kirtland tract, in the southwest part of the township; built a house, and lived there about two years, when he again sold out and purchased a farm in the northwest part of Hiram, Ohio. He cleared up his farm, and died there in 1847. His widow now occupies the old homestead where he died.
Alonzo Colvin was born in Auburn, and was married in 1853 to Celia A. Wicks, daughter of Ebenezer Wicks, and they had four children, whose names were Bartlett E., Linacus A., Ora Anna, and John B. Ora Anna died in 1876, aged eleven years. Mr. Colvin owns and resides on the farm where his grandfather, Bildad Bradley, first settled.
Daniel Wheelock was born in Tyringham, Massachusetts, came to Auburn with Zadock Reuwee in 1815, was married in 1829, to Betsey Belcher, and they settled south of Reuwee's on the Mills tract. Mr. Wheelock had two children by this wife, whose names were Hiland and Chauncey. Mrs. Wheelock died about 1835, and Mr. Wheelock married Lydia Hall, daughter of Job Hall, and they had three children, whose names we do not know. Mr. and Mrs. Wheelock resided on that farm several years, then sold out to Nathaniel Stone, and if we remember correctly, moved to Chardon, and remained there for several years; then moved to Hambden, where he now resides. We know nothing of his family since he left this township.
John Jackson was born in Massachusetts, and there married Huldah Chadwick. They had seven children, whose names were James C., Mercy Ann, Lorette and Jennette (twins), John, Anson and Almeda. Mr. Jackson came to Auburn with his family in ;815, and purchased land on the Mills tract, being the same now owned by Gilbert A. Richards. Mr. Jackson built a house just south of where Richards' house now stands, and in 1816 built a frame barn, it being the first frame barn built in the township. He commenced clearing up his farm, and in 182o was elected justice of the peace, served one term, was re-elected, and died in 1824. Mr. Jackson was the second justice of the peace in the township.
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James C., eldest son of John Jackson, was born in Massachusetts, and came to Auburn with his parents. In 1833 he married Martha, daughter of Joseph Bartholomew. They had five or six children. Mr. Jackson owned the first farm, north of Alvirus Snow, on the east side of the road, where he built a nice house in 1837, lived there a few years, then sold out, and moved to Amherst, Ohio, where he now resides.
John, jr., second son of John Jackson, was born in Massachusetts, and came to Auburn with his parents. In 1836 he married Flavia Odell. Mr. Jackson resided in town some years, but now resides in Newburgh, Ohio.
Anson, third son of John Jackson, sr., was born in Massachusetts, and came to Auburn with his parents. He was married about 1840, to Sophrona Stockwell. Mr. Jackson resided in town some years, sold out and went, to Michigan, and died there several years since. They had a family of children, but we know not how many, or what their names were.
Zadock Reuwee was born in Massachusetts in 1785, and in 1814, married Lury Snow, daughter of Oliver Snow, and they came to Auburn November 4, 1815. Mr. Reuwee had been in a few months before, and purchased some land in the northeast part of the township, on the Mills tract. When Mr. and Mrs. Reuwee came in, they had one child, whose name was Lorin S. Mr. Reuwee first built a log house some distance east of the State road, and commenced clearing up his farm. On the sixteenth of DeceMber, 1817, he left hnme on business, and in his absence his wife went to a neighbor's of an errand, leaving her child in the house asleep. She was gone but a short time, but coming in sight of the house, on her return, she saw that it was on fire. She reached the house as soon as possible, and some neighbors arrived at the same time, but all were too late to rescue the child, and it perished in the flames. The bones of the child were gathered up, and buried at the center of the township. Elder Seward, of Aurora, preached the funeral sermon. This was the first funeral in Auburn, and the sermon, so far as we can learn, was the first preached in the township. Mr. and Mrs. Reuwee, after this time, had three children: Franklin S., born 1819; Alvin T., born in 1829, and Lorenzo S., born in 1839. After the house mentioned above burned down, Mr. Reuwee built on the State road, west of where he first built, and occupied the same several years while clearing up his farm. He afterwards built a nice frame house. When he first purchased his land, there was some dispute between him and the party of whom he purchased about the title, and he was obliged to resort to legal proceedings in order to obtain his rights, and consequently commenced a suit in the court of common pleas at Chardon, with Peter Hitchcock, sr., as his attorney, and after several years of litigation he succeeded in gaining his suit and perfecting his title. This was the first suit instituted in the county court, from this town- ship. Mr. Reuwee died in 1842, and Mrs. Reuwee died several years after.
Franklin S., second son of Zadock Reuwee, was born in Auburn, and in 1841 he married Betsey Waterman, daughter of Curtiss Waterman, who was one of the first settlers of Auburn, but now resides in Troy. He died in August, 1842.
Alvin T., third son of Zadock Reu wee, was also born in Auburn, and died in 1842, at the age of thirteen years.
Lorenzo S., fourth son of Zadock Reuwee, was also born in Auburn, and in 1860 he married Paulina M. Crafts, daughter of Benjamin Crafts, and they have three children, whose names. are Izetta I... Elsey C., and Frank B. He owns and resides on the old homestead, where his father and mother both died.
William Crafts, fourth son of Edward Crafts, was born in Boston, Massachusetts. His father, Edward Crafts, was a major in the war of the Revolution, and done good service for his country in that memorable struggle of our fore-
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fathers for religious and political liberty. Soon after the close of the war, Major Crafts sold his property in Boston for the sum of thirty thousand dollars, and took the entire amount in continental money, and the result was that he lost pretty much all his property. Soon after this Major Crafts moved with his family to Bethel, Ontario county, New York, where he spent the remainder of his days, without accumulating much property. At the time of his arrival in Bethel, New York, he had four sons and five daughters. The sons were Edward, Jr., John, Thomas, and William. In 1812, William married Catharine Millspaugh, of Gorham, New York, and they had one child, whose name was Daniel M. Soon after the birth of this son, Mrs. Crafts died.
In uncle William's history (as he was familiarly called), as written up by himself in 1868, and published in the Geauga Republican, he says he started from Gorham, Ontario county, New York, August 1, 1815, and reached Auburn, Ohio, the first of September, and purchased the whole of the Ely tract, being eleven hundred and seventy-six acres. He soon after started for home as he had come, on foot, and arrived in Gorham about the first of October, the same year.
In January, 1816, Mr. Crafts married the widow Drusilla Hayes. She had one child by her first husband, whose name was Chester G. On the sixteenth day of February, 1816, Mr. Cralts, with his wife, these two little boys, and two nephews, Joseph Keyes and John Crafts, an ox team and wagon, and one cow, started from Gorham, New York, for Auburn, Ohio, to him, the land of promise. We wish we could give a full account of their journey, as given by Mr. Crafts in his history of 1868, but time and space forbids. Suffice it to say, they arrived safely in Auburn, after a journey of twenty-six days. Immediately on their arrival, Mr. Crafts selected a place for a house, and in just nine days they built a house, moved in, and set up their household gods.
This house stood a half mile south of the corners, on the east side of the road. After a few years Mr. Crafts sold this house and one hundred acres of land to Hiram Webster, and built another house a short distance south of the corners, on the west side of the road, where he lived for many years. Mr. Crafts not being successful in getting some of his neighbors in New York to come on with him and take some of his land, was obliged to give up all of his first purchase, except four hundred acres for himself, and two hundred acres for his byother-in-law, Keyes, making six hundred acres, which was a trifle more than half of his first purchase. After Mr. and Mrs. Crafts came to Auburn they had six children, whose names were Jeremiah, Harriet, Almira, Edward, Hosea, and Eveline. Jeremiah was the first child born in the township.
Mr. Crafts cleared up his farm, during which time he built a large frame barn, cow sheds, etc., and in 1835 built a frame dwelling house, the largest in town. Mr. Crafts lived in this house until 1845, when he sold the old homestead to his two youngest sons, Edward and Hosea, and divided up the most of his property among his children. After selling out, he purchased a farm on the east line of the township, where he lived a few years, after which he made two or three changes, and finally settled on a small piece of land half a mile east of the corners, where he lost his wife in 1868. He again married in 1870, at the age of eighty years, and died in 1876. His widow soon after married, and now resides where Mr. Crafts died.
Daniel M., son of Uncle William Crafts, by his first wife, about 1833 married Diantha Wright, daughter of Ephraim Wright, and they had one child, a daughter, named Mary. Mr. and Mrs. Crafts separated, and, after having obtained a divorce, Mr. Crafts, about 1837 or 1838, married Miss Damia Mott, daughter of Elihu Mott. Mr. Mott settled on the north line of Auburn, near where Lewis May now resides, and Damia was born
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there in 1816, being the first female child born in Auburn. By this marriage a daughter was born, whose name is Samantha C. Mr. Crafts settled a half mile east of the corners, built a nice frame house, and the necessary out buildings, and several years since rented this farm and purchased one in Troy, where he now resides.
William H. Richmond, son of Alonzo Richmond, of Chardon, came to Auburn in 1857. He enlisted in the service in the early part of the war of the Rebellion, was wounded, and discharged on account of disability. He came home, and in 1865 married Mary J. Crafts, eldest daughter of Daniel M. Crafts, and they have no children. They now own and reside on the farm formerly owned by Nicholas Silvernail.
Ozro Truman, third son of Lyman Truman, of Troy, was born in Troy. In September, 1864, Mr. Truman enlisted in the naval service, Mississippi squadron, and shipped on board of the United States steamer "Argosy," and served on that ship until the close of the war. Mr. Truman was discharged at Cairo, Illinois, and returned home, and in 1865 married Samantha C. Crafts, daughter of Daniel M. Crafts, and they have no children. They now reside on the east township line, one mile south of the east and west center road.
Jeremiah, eldest son of Uncle William, by his second wife, was born in Auburn, and, as above mentioned, was the first child born in the township. About 184o he married Miss Fidelia Moore, and they had two children—Oscar and Renette. Soon after their marriage Mr. Crafts purchased a farm on the east line of the township, where they remained for several years, but finally sold out and moved to Cuyahoga Rapids, where he now resides.
Edward, third son of Uncle William, was born in Auburn, and in 1845 married Helen B. Johnson, daughter of Seth Johnson, of Newbury. They have three sons—Clayton E., Pitt M., and Stanley C. Clayton E. and Stanley C. are lawyers by profession, and reside in Chicago, Illinois. Mr. Crafts and his wife reside on the old homestead, where Uncle William first settled; and their son, Pitt M., resides with them, and carries on the farm. In 1879 he married Miss Eva L. Wilber, daughter of William Wilber.
Hosea, fourth and youngest son of Uncle William, was married several years since, and resides in Michigan.
Harriet, eldest daughter, died about 1835.
Almira, second daughter, is unmarried, and resides in Auburn.
Eveline, youngest daughter, married Phileman Johnson, as mentioned in the history of the Johnson family.
Chester G. Hayes, the little boy mentioned by Uncle William Crafts, as the son of his second wife, who came to Auburn with them in 1816, was born in Canada, in 1812, and at the age of eighteen years, left the parental roof, and returned to his grandfather's, in New Hampshire. After staying there a short time, he went to Canada, staid there four years; then returned to New Hampshire again, and in 1834, married Susan Jewell. They had two children; both died in childhood, and his wife died in 1838. Soon after her death he returned to Auburn, and, after a three years' stay, engaged in chopping and clearing land, he went into the State of Pennsylvania, where he engaged in lumbering and wood-chopping, and, after carrying on that business about four years, again returned to Auburn. In 1848, he married the widow of Nathan Ethridge. Mr. Hayes, a short time previous to his marriage, had purchased a farm in Troy, previously owned by Amos Palmer, and they took up their residence there, and remained a number of years; during which time Mr. Hayes was elected justice of the peace, and served in that capacity for twelve years. He sold his farm to Daniel M. Crafts, the other little boy mentioned by uncle William Crafts, as the son of his first wife, and returned to Auburn again, for the 'fourth time. He
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now resides just east of the corners, in sight of where he spent his boyhood days.
Daniel Goodwin was born in New Hampshire, came to Middlesex, New York, in middle age, and was married to Polly Crafts, sister of Uncle William Crafts, in 1795, and they raised eight children—Mary, Edward, Daniel, Hannah, John, Sally, Richard, Nancy and James.
Mr. Goodwin moved to Auburn with his family about 1819. He first settled just east of the corners, and, in 1832, lived near Bridge creek, on the north side of the center road. He died about 1856, and his wife died in 1855.
David Smith, sr., was born in Connecticut, in 1763, and was married, in 1785, to Lucy Prindle; they had five children—Lucy, Anna, Charry, Irena and David. Mr. Smith lost his wife in 1812; married again, in 1814, to Hannah Orton; came to Auburn, in 1816, and settled on the Ely tract. In 1823, he was appointed postmaster (he being the first in Auburn), and served fifteen years, when he resigned. Nathan Ethridge was then appointed. Mr. Smith's was the fifth family, and he built the fifth house in town. He died on the old homestead, in r852, aged eighty-nine years, and Mrs. Smith died there, in 1854, aged eighty-two years.
David Smith, jr., was born in Connecticut, in 1802, and came to Auburn, with his father, in 1816; and, in 1822, was married to the widow Wilcox, whose maiden name was Betsey Orton). They raised no family. He purchased twenty-five acres of land of his father, and of others joining him, until he owned one hundred and forty-one acres. He cleared up his land and built all the necessary buildings. In 1854, he sold out and moved to Bainbridge, where he lived about ten years, and from there moved to Chagrin Falls, where he now resides. During Mr. Smith's residence in Auburn, he served three terms as justice of the peace; was township clerk several years, and assessor seven years. Mr. Smith lost his wife, in 1867, and, in 1868, he married Miss Nabbie L. Hickox, of Burton, Ohio.
Morgan Orton was born in Connecticut. He came to Burton, Ohio, in 1815; resided there about one year ; came to Auburn in 1816; was married to Rebecca Moore about 1819, and they had six children—Belinda, Permelia, Corington, Anna, Albert, and Wesley. Mr. Orton settled on the north part of the Ely tract in 1816. About 1817 he sold out to Benjamin Woods, and went a short distance west of the center and bought on the Kirtland tract, where he lived for several years. Then he sold out to Culver and the Barneys. He then came back to the State road and settled near where he settled in 1816, and lived there several years, during which time he built a nice framed house and barn, and cleared up his farm. In 1850 he sold this farm to Jonathan Burnett, and moved to Iowa. Mr. Orton belonged to the Methodist Episcopal church, and was the first Methodist that settled in Auburn.
Hervey Bassett was born in Connecticut ; came to Auburn first in 1831, and taught school in Twinsburgh in the winter of 1831 and 1832; went back to Connecticut in 1832, and returned to Auburn again in 1845 and purchased a farm of Willis Woods, north of the corners, and in 1847 was married to Hannah Coats. They had four children—Mary E., Alice M., Lucy C., and Chattie I. Mr. Bassett resided in Auburn until 1860, when he sold out and purchased a farm near Chagrin Falls, where he now resides. Mary E. died at the age of seventeen years. Mr. Bassett brought the first lucifer matches into Auburn. Mrs. Bassett died in January, 1880.
Austin Richards was born in the State of Massachusetts in 1789. In 1811 he married Miss Sally Chadwick. They came to Auburn in 1816, and settled on the Mills tract, half a mile west of the State road. Mr. and Mrs. Richards had nine children, the four eldest being born previous to their arrival in Auburn.
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The names of their children were, John C., Lorrin W., Sarah J., Orton T., Harriet, William, Julia M., Gilbert A., and Almeda M. Mr. Richards cleared up his farm, built a frame house and barn, and remained on the same farm until 1850, when he sold out to his son, Gilbert A., and moved to Chardon, settling near the center of that township. He died in 1867. In 1869 his widow returned to Auburn, with her son William, and died in 1877. Mr. Richards was elected justice of the peace in 1828, and held that office five terms in succession, during his residence in Auburn.
John C., eldest son of Austin Richards, was born in Tyringham, Massachusetts; came to Auburn with his parents, and in 1837 married Sarah M. Ensign, daughter of Jacob Ensign, and they had four children—Sarah M., Jacob A., John L., and Joel C. He settled a short distance west of his father, cleared up his farm, built all the necessary buildings for comfort and convenience, and he and his wife are now enjoying the full benefits of their industry.
Sarah M., only daughter of John C. Richards, married Alanson Knox, several years since, and they have one son, named Adelbert. They reside in Auburn.
Jacob A. married an only daughter of Cornelius Stafford, and they reside in Hambden, Ohio. John L. married Miranda Green, and they reside in Leroy, Lake county, Ohio. Joel C. married Theresa Hartson, daughter of James Hartson, of Troy. He resides with his father, and helps to carry on the farm. Lorrin W., second son of Austin Richards, and Harriet, second daughter, died young. Sarah J., eldest daughter, married a Mr. Harmon, of ,Bainbridge. They had three children—one son and two daughters. Gilbert, the son, is married, and resides in Bainbridge. The father and mother both died several years since. Orton T., third son, married about 1845, and died several years since.
William, fourth son of Austin Richards, was born in Auburn, and in 1850 married Philena Howard, daughter of William R. Howard, of Bainbridge. They had four children—Austin H., M. Emerette, Alta D. Ettie, and William, M. Emerette died at the age of eight years, and William died in infancy. Mr. Richards settled near the center of Chardon, in 1850, and remained there until 1869, when he returned to Auburn, and purchased the farm formerly owned by Hiram Brewster, and now resides at that place. During his residence in Chardon he was elected justice of the peace, and served three terms in succession.
Austin H., only son of William Richards, married Miss Ellen Johnson, of Mentor, Ohio. They have one child, a daughter, and reside in Kansas.
Alta D. Ettie is unmarried. She resides at home, and follows teaching school.
Gilbert A. Richards, fifth and youngest son of Austin Richards, was born in Auburn. In 1849 he married Mehitable Snow, daughter of Lorin Snow. They had four children—Eliza, Ella, Lorin, and Laura. Laura died young. When Mr. Richards was sixteen years old he bought his time of his father, and commenced working out for wages, which continued until he was twenty-three years old. Soon after his marriage he bought the old homestead of his father, consisting of twenty-five acres, and he and nis wife commenced their married life at that place. Mr. Richards next purchased twenty-seven acres of land adjoining Ebenezer Wicks, on the west, and soon after purchased twenty-two acres joining Wicks, on the north. In 1857 he sold the two last mentioned pieces, and purchased the old Oliver Snow farm, containing one hundred and ninety- two acres, which with the twenty-five acres he first purchased of his father, made him two hundred and seventeen acres, To this Mr. Richards has added piece after piece, until he now owns five hundred and forty-five acres of land. He now resides on the old Snow farm, two miles north of the corners, where
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he and his wife are enjoying the full benefit of their hard earnings. Mr. Richards has held the office of township trustee several times, and is at the present time one of the board of trustees.
Almeda M., youngest daughter of Austin Richards, went to Chardon with her parents in 185o, and there married a man by the name of Clough. She died in 1859, and Mr. Clough died soon after.
Benjamin Woods was born in the State of Massachusetts in 1770, lived there until he was twenty-five years of age, then came into the State of New York, and purchased some land in Palmyra, in that State. In 1798 he married Miss Mahitable Marble, and they had nine children: Tirzah, Willis, Silas, Charles, Willard, William, Theodocia, and Cynthia. He remained there some years, cleared up his farm, and by his industry and perseverance, accumulated quite a large property. In the fall of 1816, Mr. Elihu Mott, then a neighbor of Mr. Woods, hired him to take his team and move him to Newbury, Ohio. After arriving at Newbury, Mr. Woods liking the country, concluded to purchase some land before he returned home, and accordingly came to Auburn, and looked over the Root tract, but there were no roads laid out on that tract, and, in fact, none laid out in town, except the State road. Mr. Woods told William Crafts he would like to buy some land on the State road. Mr. Crafts told him he thought he could buy out Morgan Orton, who then owned some land on the north part of the Ely tract. Uncle William went with him, and he soon made a bargain for the land, and the next morning, started for home. Later in the fall he returned to Auburn again, and this time, brought back four men with him, their names being Charles Hinkley, Amasa Turner, Philip Ingler, and James Benjamin, all looking for land. Mr. Woods again returned home, and as near as we can learn, in the spring of 1817 he sold his farm in Palmyra for six thousand dollars, about half of which he lost in consequence of one of the parties, to whom he sold, breaking down. During the summer he settled up his business, and in the fall, took his family, and came to Auburn, bringing with him some stock of different kinds. He, not having a house prepared for his family, took up lodgings with David Smith, sr., and in a very short time, built a house a short distance north of the corners, and moved into it. The above differs from Uncle William Crafts’ history as to dates, but we think we are correct. Soon after Mr. Woods moved in, he purchased all of the Cowles tract, containing one thousand acres, all of which went back on account of losing his money in Palmyra, except one hundred acres, which he afterwards sold to John Hoard. He was a very industrious man, and also very benevolent, never turning a deaf ear to those in want, which was a great benefit to his neighbors in those early days. His wife was also possessed with the same spirit of benevolence, and did her full share in relieving the wants of the needy. Mrs. Woods was a physician of the Thompsonian school, and did good service in relieving the sick in Auburn, and the surrounding townships, frequently riding long distances on horseback, through the unbroken wilderness, in the night time, to attend to calls from the sick and suffering. Mr. Woods, although quite old when he came to Auburn, lived to clear up his farm, and for several years after, Mrs. Woods died in 1834, and Mr. Woods died in 2853. Both were buried on the farm a shortdistance from where they built their house in 1817. The motto of Mr. Woods was, to never let the sun go down on his wrath.
Willis, oldest son of Benjamin Woods, was born in the State of New York, and came to Auburn about 1817. He was married in 1820, to Rachel Colvin, and they had seven children: Lucina, Jane, Tuezie, Betsey, Marble, Lorenzo, and Jerome. In the spring of 1845 he sold and moved west with his family, and was killed there by the falling of a tree.
Charles Woods, third son of Benjamin Woods, was born in the State of New
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York. He came to Auburn with his parents in 1817, and in 1833 married Sarah Johnson. They had nine children, viz: Mary, Alanson B., Willard C., Henry G., Lurana M., Laura A., Nelson R., Frank R., and Emma D., all born in Auburn. Mr. Woods lived with his father, and helped clear up the farm. He took up the blacksmith trade in his younger days, and built a shop, where he did his own work and considerable for his neighbors. About 1873 his health failed him, and he soon gave up working at his trade entirely. He continued to fail in health until his death, which occurred in 1878, on the old. homestead, where his father settled in 1817. His widow is still living, and resides on the old homestead.
Alanson B., eldest son of Charles Woods, lived at home until of age, then went to Iowa. When the war of the Rebellion broke out, he was in Fairbault, Minnesota, and, in the fall of 1861, enlisted in company I, first regiment, Minnesota sharpshooters, called " Berdan's sharpshooting volunteers." They were stationed at St. Paul in the winter of 1861 and '62, and in the spring of 1862, was ordered to Washington, District of Columbia, where they joined the army of the Potomac. Mr. Woods was in the battle of the Wilderness, and there slightly wounded. He was soon after attacked with paralysis, and totally deprived of his speech. In this condition he was taken to Philadelphia and placed in the hospital. After he had been there awhile he recovered so as to be able to talk a little, and his nurse learned from him where he belonged, and wrote to his father, stating his condition. His brother, Henry G. Woods, started after him as soon as possible, and on arriving at Philadelphia, found him, as supposed by his physician, in a condition to come home. After starting, he began to grow worse, and on arriving at Pittsburgh was unable to come farther. His brother came home, and his mother started immediately for Pittsburgh, and on her arrival foundhim worse, and he died September 25, 1862, two days after her arrival. Mrs. Woods brought him back to Auburn, and he was buried in the cemetery at the corners, in sight of where he was born. Thus he, like five hundred thousand and more, gave his life for his country—and his country appreciates the sacrifice.
Willard C., Second son, enlisted, in 1861, in company B, Second Ohio volunteer cavalry, for three years, served in that company until September 3o, 1862, and was discharged at Fort Scott, Kansas. In 1863 he was appointed pay-master's clerk, on the United States steamer "Osage," Mississippi squadron, and June 16, 1864, was transferred to United States steamer "Fort Hindman," served on that steamer until the thirtieth day of October, 1864, and was then discharged from the service and returned home. In 1870 he went to Council Bluffs, Iowa, hired out to the American Express company, and was in their employ seven years, during which time he was in several different States. In 1875 Mr. Woods was in Missouri, and there married Miss Sarah E. Meeder. They have two children, named Frank and Mabel. Mr. Woods returned to Auburn with his family in 1878, and resides a few rods north of the corners, near where he was born.
Henry G., third son, in 1861, when the war broke out, enlisted in the three months' service, served out his time and returned home. He had previously rented and carried on his father's farm, and continued to do so after his return. In 1867 he married Miss Mary L. Ensign, daughter of Chardon Ensign, of Middlefield, Ohio. Mr. Woods died on the old homestead in 1877, and his wife died in 1879.
Nelson R., fourth son, enlisted in the war of the Rebellion, in 1862, in the naval service, and served about eleven months, when he was taken sick and discharged. In 1864 he enlisted again in the One Hundred and Ninety-sixth Ohio volunteer infantry, and served until the close of the war. He returned home,
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and engaged in different occupations. In 1877 he went to Evansville, Indiana, and, in 1878, married Sarah Vickery, of that place. Mr. Woods is a Free Methodist minister, and now resides at Howard, Knox county, Ohio.
Frank R., fifth son, is unmarried. His home is in Auburn, but is engaged in business that keeps him from home most of the time.
Lurana M., daughter of Charles Woods, is unmarried; spends most of her time in Cleveland, Ohio.
Emma D., youngest daughter, married George Ridge, and now resides in Troy, Ohio.
Lewis L. Webster is the only son of Lucius Webster, and was born in Kingsville, Ohio, and there learned the harness-maker's trade. Came to Auburn in 1853, and worked about one year for Oliver P. Hayes, who was carrying on business at the corners at that time. In 1855 Mr. Webster commenced business for himself; worked in different shops about the corners, and in 1864 he married Laura A. Woods, and they have three children—Arthur W., John W., and Charles .W. Soon after their marriage, Mr. Webster purchased a house and lot joining his father-in-law, Woods, and carried on harness making at that place until 1877, when he sold his tools, rented his shop, and moved into the old Benjamin Woods' homestead, and is now occupying the same. Mrs. Webster is one of the third generation who has occupied the same farm, and their children are the fourth. This farm, and the Bildad Bradley farm, now occupied by Alonzo Colvin, are the only two farms in Auburn that are now occupied by the third and fourth generations.
William, fifth son of Benjamin Woods, was born in the State of New York; came to Auburn with his parents, and in 1831 married Almira Hall, daughter of Russell Hall, sr. They had four children—Lorin, Almeda, Edwin, and Tryphena. Mr. Woods settled north of his father's, on the State road, partially cleared up his farm, and lost his wife, in 1843. He married again, the same year, Miss Maria Wright. They had three children—Caroline, Emery and Emily (twins). Mr. Woods traded farms with Peter O. Hall, in 1845. Moved on to that farm, and lived there a few years; then traded farms with Lines S. Pope, and moved on to the east town line road, where he remained a few years; then sold out, and purchased a farm in Newbury, known as the Abraham Woodard farm. and died there, very suddenly, about 1870. His two daughters, by his first wife, are both dead. Lorin, his second son, married several years since, and resides in Huntsburgh. Edwin also married several years since, and resides in Garrettsville, Ohio. His eldest daughter, by the second wife, married James Thrasher, and resides in Troy. Emily married George Mumford, and resides on the farm where her father died. Emery married a Miss Burroughs, of Troy, and they reside in that township.
Pardon Wilber was born in the State of Rhode Island; was married to Rebecca Bowler, and they had three children—George, William and Rebecca. Mr. Wilber came to Auburn, with his family, in 1817, and settled west of the township, on the Root tract; built a house and barn, partially cleared up his farm, and sold out, about 1836, and moved to Chardon, Ohio, and died at that place several years since. His wife came back to Auburn after the death of her husband, and died a few years since, near where they first settled.
Mr. Wilber held several different offices, while living in town, among which was that of justice of the peace.
George Wilber, son of Pardon Wilber, came to Auburn with his parents, and shared with them the hardships and privations of pioneer life. An incident or two in the life of George, as related by his son, William Wilber, will serve to break the monotony of this history. In the first place, a description of the wagon, or the thing used in those early days in place of a regular wagon, which
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was made as follows: The first thing in order was to find a crotched tree, fall it, and hew from the crotch far enongh for a tongue; then hew out the crotch sufficiently small to be light, and still strong enough for all practical purposes, put some boards across the crotch, and you have the wagon. With this kind of a conveyance, and a pair of oxen attached, George was sent down to Captain Seth Harmon's in Mantua, after a quarter of beef; and on the way back, after getting a little way into Auburn, and it getting a little dark, George was startled by hearing a wolf howl but a short distance behind him, and soon after another one howled, and by this time George began to hurry up the cattle and at the same time, also, the wolves began to show themselves, and manifest a great desire for a chunk of beef. George whipped and hurried up the cattle as fast as possible, but the wolves kept getting closer to the beef, and George concluded that terra firma was no place for him. With a bound, he mounted the vehicle, ran up the tongue between the cattle to the yoke, and by a very severe demonstration, in the way of whipping the cattle and whipping at the wolves, he succeeded in reaching, in safety, a house that stood near where A. A. Snow now resides. Here he put up for the night, and the next morning went home with his beef. George told his associates, a few days afterwards, that it seemed to him that his hair stood up a great deal straighter than common.
Another little incident which occurred in that early day with Mr. Wilber and three or four of his associates, some years after the above occurrence, is some- what amusing, and shows, with all, that good whiskey (for it is said they had no other in those days) did then, as now, confuse the human brain to some extent. One warm evening, in the spring of the year, Mr. Wilber and some of his neighbors started out to catch' some fish, and as they were going along towards the creek, they came across a large rattlesnake, which they killed and took along with them. After arriving at the creek, and fishing awhile without much success, they kindled up a fire, got a long stick, tied the snake by the tail to one end, and stuck the other end in the ground, in a position so the snake would hang over the fire, and while he was roasting, it is fair to presume, they indulged just 'a little in the "oh-be-joyful," and after getting quite mellow, and the snake getting quite mellow by being thoroughly roasted, and their appetites getting a little sharp withal, a proposition was made by one of the party to eat the snake, and they all fell to and devoured the old fellow instanter. They soon after wended their way home, and after going to bed and taking a short nap, one of them awoke and complained of a very bad feeling in the region of the diaphragm, and it took a very lengthy argument to convince him that the delicious meal of snake and whiskey that he had partaken the night before, was not the true cause of the terrible state of his bowels.
Mr. Wilber was married in 1828, to Rachel Smith, daughter of Robert Smith, one of the first settlers of Bainbridge, Ohio, and they raised eight children— Charlotte, Charles, William, Eliza, Mary, Rebecca, Albert, and Anna. Mr. Wilber held several offices while he resided in Auburn, among which was trustee, justice of the peace, and postmaster. He resided west of where his father first settled, built a nice dwelling house and other out-buildings, and after a residence of over fifty years in Auburn, sold out to John Quinn and moved to Aurora, Illinois, where he now resides.
William Wilber is the son of George Wilber, and was born in Auburn; was married in x858 to Lucia Case, and they have two children, named George and Eva. Mr. Wilber resides on the center road, near the west line of the township, on lands owned in an early day by Eli McConoughey, and is at the present time one of the board of trustees of the township.
Amaziah Keyes came to Auburn from the State of New York in 1817, was married to Nancy Crafts, sister of William Crafts, and they raised nine children,
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named Nancy, Betsey, Joseph, Sally, Vivalda, Amanda, Eunice, Oliver, and William. Mr. Keyes died in 1824, and his wife in 1840.
Joseph Keyes, oldest son of Amaziah Keyes, came to Auburn from the State of New York in 1816, with William Crafts; was married to Ruth Colvin, and they had six children—Arnaziah, Anson, Lucy, Cordelia, Nehemiah, and Drusilla. Joseph Keyes lived in Auburn several years, and then moved to Troy, Geauga county, where he died in 1871. His widow is still living.
Vivalda Keyes, second son, came to Auburn with his father in 1817; was married about 1835 or '36, to Hannah Goodwin, and they raised two children, named Alonzo William, and Annette. They moved to Wisconsin, and from there back to Pioneer, Ohio, where they died a few years since. Oliver, third son, lives in some western State. William, fourth son, married several years since, and now resides in Louisville, Kentucky. He enlisted in the war of the Rebellion, and did good service for his country.
Jeremiah White was born in Canada, and was married in the State of New York, in 1816, to Sally Keyes, and came to Auburn in 1818. They had eight children--Nancy, J. Van Ranslear, Mary, Sarah M., Laura Ann, Harriet A., Nathaniel, and William N. Mr. White first settled on the State road, south of Auburn corners, having purchased some land of his father-in-law (Mr. Keyes), and built a house where Israel Johnson now resides; lived there a few years, cleared some land, sold out to his father-in-law, and moved into Troy, and purchased some land of Jacob Welsh; cleared about fifty acres, and finally lost the land and all his labor in consequence of the land being mortgaged by Welsh, and he could not get a good title. Mr. White then purchased some land in what is known as Auburn valley, of one Marsh's built a house on the same, cleared up that land and lived there several years; then sold out and moved back on the State road, north of the corners. Sold out there, and moved back on to the land where he first settled; lived there a short time, and then moved a little farther north; from there a half mile west, and from there to Auburn corners, where he now resides. Mr. and Mrs. White have lived together sixty-three years, and are the only couple now living in Auburn who have lived together for that length of time.
William N. White was born in Auburn, is the third son and youngest child of Jeremiah White. He obtained a good education, and for a number of years he was engaged in teaching school. In 1862 he married Louisa M. Messenger, daughter of Clement Messenger, sr. They have two children : India A. and Willie N. Soon after his marriage, Mr. White started a shoe shop in the building, which he now occupies as a dwelling house, a short distance west of the corners. After carrying on the business of shoemaking for two years, he purchased a small stock of groceries, and for the next two years carried on both branches of business in the same building. He then purchased the north part of the building at the corners, known as 0. S. Crain's tinshop, which increased his facilities for carrying on his business. He remained there something over three years, then sold out and purchased the building known as the John Mayhew store, where he is now located, and is still engaged in mercantile business.
Cornelius Bowerman was born in Canada in 1791; came to the State of New York in early life, and married Ruby Hamilton, in 1816, they having three children—Addison, Hamilton, and Stephen. Mr. Bowerman came to Ohio in 1818, and settled in Medina county; lived there about four years, and then came and settled in Auburn valley. They then had three children. He built a house, chopped, and got some land ready to burn the brush, and while burning the same, his wife went out to help, and left her infant child asleep on the bed, and, before they were aware of it, the house caught fire by the flames running under it, and burned to the ground. The child could not be rescued. Mr. Bowerman
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moved back to Medina county in 1837, and his wife died there about 1856. He then moved to Michigan.
Abraham Gilmore, we think, was born in the State of New York, cane with the Canfields, Antisdale, and Harrington, in 1818, and he married Phebe Antisdale, sister of George W., sr., and they had eight children--David, George, Dury, Hiram, Lyman, Mary, Woolcot, and Abram. Mr. Gilmore settled west of Harrington, on the Root tract, cleared up his farm, and in 184o sold out and moved to Wisconsin.
Elliot W. Crafts, son of John and Abagail Crafts, was born in the State of New York, in 1799. He was married in 1818, to Cynthia Rice, and they came to Auburn in 1818. They had seven children—Eliza, Elisha, Cynes, Sophia, Clarissa, Cillinda, and Cynthia. Mr. Crafts first settled southeast of the corners, on the Ely tract, and afterwards on the Cowles tract, east of the corners, where he lived several years; sold out there, and moved to Auburn valley, and there lost his first wite. After a few years he moved to Newbury, married again, and lost another wife in that town. Soon after this he moved to Thompson, and there married a widow lady, named Mrs. Stearns. Mr. Crafts, by this marriage, had one child, a son. After living in Thompson several years, he died in 1878. His widow, and youngest son, still reside in Thompson.
Elisha, eldest son of Elliot Crafts, was born in Auburn, in 1819; was married about 1840, to the widow of Franklin S. Reuwee (whose maiden name was Betsey Waterman). They have but one child, a son, whose name is William. Mr, Crafts resided in Auburn valley several years, finally sold out, and moved into the southeast part of Mantua, where he now resides.
Cyrus, second son of Elliot Crafts, was born in Auburn, in 1822; was married about 1838, to Samantha Spaulding, and they had one child, a son, named Mortimer. Mr. Crafts died soon after the birth of his son, and the son died several years since.
John B. Scudder was born in the State of New York ; came to Auburn in 1832, and in 1835 was married to Eliza Crafts, daughter of Elliot Crafts, and they had one daughter, Sarah M. Mr. Scudder first purchased some land in Troy, but, soon after his marriage, sold out, and purchased some land on the east township line in Auburn; lived there a few years, then sold out and purchased a farm in Auburn valley; moved there, and lost his wife in 1869. He soon after broke up keeping house, and went to live with his daughter, Mrs. Oliver F. Snow, and died there in 1877, after a long and painful illness.
Isaac Butts was born in the State of New York in 1807, came to Auburn with the Antisdales in 1818, and in 1829 married Cynehia Woods, daughter of Benjamin Woods. They had seven children Olive, Lorette, Mahitable, Corlintha, Charles, Sarah; and one child died young. Mr. Butts settled on the first north and south road, west of the corners, cleared up the farm, and resided there until 1876, when he sold out, and purchased lands in Newbury, formerly owned by A. C. Gardner, where he now resides.
Charles Butts, only son of Isaac, is married, and has one child. He resides with his father, and helps to carry on the farm.
Edwin Parks, son of Nathaniel Parks, was born in Chardon; came to Auburn in 1849, and in 1850 married Olive Butts, daughter of Isaac Butts. They had one child, named Lenora. Mrs. Parks died in 1852. In 1858 he married for his second wife, Lorette, daughter of Isaac Butts. Mr. Parks resided in Auburn the most of the time from 1849 until his death, which occurred in 1868.
Arnold Harrington was born in the State of New York, came to Auburn in 1818, when a young man, and married the widow of George W. Antisdale, and they had five children: Adison, Seth, William, Thomas, and Sally. He settled in the woods, west of the Canfield's and Antisdale's, on the Root tract, cleared
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up his farm, and resided there for many years ; finally sold out and moved to Troy, Ohio, where he and his wife died several years since.
Oliver Snow, son of Oliver and Elizabeth Snow, was born in, or near, Boston, Massachusetts, in 1748, and in 1774 was married to Rebecca Wadsworth, and they had six children—Oliver, jr., Roxana, Franklin, Charlotte, Hastings, and Rebecca. Mr. Snow lost his wife in 1784, and was married the same year to Roxana L. Taylor, and they had five children—Electa, Lorin, Lucy, Alvirus, and Lucina. Mr. Snow came to Auburn with his family in 1822, and purchased a large tract of land.on the Mills tract, in the northeast part of the township, cleared up the same, and built the first frame house in the township, where Gilbert A. Richards now resides. Mr. Snow was a Universalist in belief, and is the man mentioned by A. G. Riddle, who used to meet Uncle Benjamin Woods in the road, about half way from the corners to where Mr. Snow lived, and hold very lengthy arguments upon the Bible; always meeting and parting as friends, but frequently wishing each other dead, as a kind of parting salute. Mr. Snow's second wife died in 1836, and Mr. Snow died in 1841. He was the oldest person who had died in Auburn up to that time, being ninety-three years of age.
Jonathan Burnett was born in the State of New York ; came to Newbury with his parents in an early day, and in 1831 married Lucina Brayman, she at that time having two daughters by her first husband. Their names were Mariette and Henriette. Mariette died soon after her mother's second marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Burnett had two children, a son and daughter, both of whom died young. Mr. Burnett worked for Mr. Snow some nine years previous to marrying his daughter, and after they were married they continued to live there; and some seven years previous to the death of the old gentleman (Snow), Burnett bought the farm, and took care of Mr. Snow until he died. He remained on the farm until 1850, when he rented it and moved to Auburn corners; resided there seven years, during which time he sold his farm to Gilbert A. Richards. Mr. Burnett soon after sold out at the corners, and bought out Morgan Orton; moved there in 1857, and died in 1859. Mr. Burnett held several different offices in town, among which was that of justice of the peace, and was serving his third term in that office when he died. Soon after the death of her husband, Mrs. Burnett sold the farm and purchased the John Mayhew place at Auburn corners, where she and her daughter Henriette now reside.
Lorin Snow, eldest son of Oliver and Roxa Snow, was born in Massachusetts, in 1706, came to Auburn, in x8r8, and was married, in 1822, to Cyrintha Burnett, daughter of Joshua M. Burnett, of Newbury. They had five children— Delos, Harriet, Mehitable, Eliza and Frank C. Harriet died young; Delos died at nineteen; Eliza died at the age of nine years. Mr. Snow first settled on the State road, opposite his father, Oliver Snow, on the Mills tract. He first purchased fifty acres; next purchased ninety acres, on the east and west road, near by; next, thirty acres, one-half mile west; next, purchased one hundred and twelve acres in Troy, known as the Bishop lot, and lastly, purchased twenty-five acres adjoining the first piece he bought, on the east, making the homestead seventy-five acres. Mr. Snow died, in 1863, on the farm where he first settled, and his wife died, in 1865, at the same place.
Alvirus, youngest son of Oliver Snow, was born in Massachusetts. In 1821, at the age of twenty-three, he started west to seek his fortune, with a man by the name of Walters. At Auburn, New York, they formed the acquaintance of a man and his family by the name of Wicks, who were also coming west. They continued to travel together until they reached Ashtabula,, Ohio. Here Mr. Snow stopped a few days with some cousins. From there he went to Fowler,
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Warren and Windham; stopping at the last place, with a half-sister (a Mrs. Jager). From there he went to Mantua, where he had some half-brothers; stayed with them a few days, then started north, and came to Auburn with his brother, Franklin, and stopped with his brother, Lorin, who had been here some two years. Alvirus had about one hundred dollars. He bought thirty acres of land where he now resides, chopped and cleared five acres that season, and sowed it to wheat.
In 1823, his father came on from the east, and brought with him about two hundred dollars; it being money that he had earned, and left in his father's care. With this he purchased, of Lewis Finley, fifty-nine acres, which joined his thirty acres, on the south; making, in all, eighty-one acres. Mr. Waterman moved into his house and he boarded with him nearly two years. At the age of twenty-six he married Mary G. Reed, daughter of William Reed, of Pierpont, Ohio. One year after this he moved his wife to Auburn, where she found in waiting a new house, which they occupied--the same place where he now resides. They have had five children; one died young. The names of those now living are: Alonzo A., Oliver F. and Taylor. Cordelia died in 1853
After Mr. Snow was married he commenced business in earnest, and by his industry and perseverance has added to his possessions, until he is now the owner of ten hundred and seventy-two acres of land, lying in Auburn, Troy, Burton, and Newbury. He had ninety-five acres in Williams county, Ohio, but sold that about one year since.
Alonzo A., eldest son of Alvirus Snow, was born in Auburn. In 1845 he married Miss Abigail M. Smith, daughter of James Smith. They had four children—Emeroy 0., Mary L, Tida M. and Alvirus J. Mary L. died young, and Tida M. died at the age of fourteen years.
Soon after their marriage Mr. Snow purchased some land south of the corners, on the Atwater tract. This land was first taken up by Ethan Brewer, and he built a small log house near where Mr. Snow's house now stands; and, it is believed, this was the first house built on the east side of the State road, on that tract. Mr. Snow has cleared up his farm, built a nice dwelling-house, barns and other out-buildings, andhe and his wife are now enjoying the benefits of their industry and perseverance.
Oliver F., second son of Alvirus Snow, was born in Auburn, and, in 1861, married Sarah M. Scudder, daughter of John B. Scudder. They have two chil-. dren-Alena L and John G. Mr. Snow now owns and resides on the farm formerly owned by Russell Hall, and has buildings enough for a small village.
Taylor A., youngest son of Alvirus Snow, was born in Auburn, and, in r8— married Miss Ella M. Callendar, of Milton, Ohio. They have three children— Albert T., James C. and Adin C.
Soon after their marriage Mr. Snow moved to Austin, Cook county, Illinois, where they now reside. Mr. Snow is a lawyer by profession.
Oliver P. Hays came to Auburn in 1845, and in 1848 married Cordelia Snow, daughter of Alvirus Snow, and they had two children—Mary E. and Laura C. He was a harness maker by trade, and lived at the corners, where his wife died in 1853. He married again, and in a few years sold and removed to Mantua station, where he now resides.
James A. Nooney was born in Mantua, and is the son of Hezekiah Nooney, one of the first settlers of that township. He came to Auburn in 1878, and married Laura C., daughter of Oliver P. Hayes. They now reside at their grandfather Snow's, and help carry on the farm.
Jacob Line was born in Pennsylvania in 1839, came to Auburn in 1859, and in 1861, at the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, he enlisted in the Second Ohio volunteer cavalry, and served for three years. He was engaged
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in the following named battles: Knoxville, Bulls Gap, Blue Springs, Strawberry Plains, Morristown, Rutledge, Rogersville, Carter Station, Bean Station, Blame Cross Roads, Cumberland Gap, Dandridge, and several other battles of less note. After the close of the war Mr. Line returned to Auburn, and in 1875 he was married to Enieroy 0. Snow, daughter of Alonzo A. Snow. They have one child, named Josephine A. Mr. Line is engaged in manufacturing cheese, and owns what is known as the " Old Hood Factory," in the south part of the township, which was the first cheese factory built in Auburn.
John Morey was born in Massachusetts, came to Auburn in 1817 or '18, and was married soon after to Dorcas Antisdale, daughter of George W. Antisdale, sr. They had the following children: Washington, Sylvenas, Linas, Franklin, Betsey, and Mary. Mr. Morey first settled in the north part of the township; changed places a few times; last settled on the State road, where Charles Crocker now resides; sold out to Rufus Pope; purchased a farm at Maple Grove, in Troy, and died at that place a few years since. His widow now resides at Cuyahoga Rapids.
Rodger W. Antisdale came to Auburn in 1818. He was previously married to Elizabeth Butts. They have one daughter, whose name is Betsey. Mr. Antisdale settled on land just west of his brother, George W., on the Kirtland tract; cleared up his farm, and built the necessary buildings for comfort and convenience. He died on the same farm in 1853, and his wife died in 1865.
George W. Antisdale came to Auburn, from the State of New York, in 1818. Mr. Antisdale married Polly Payne, and they had eight children—Waterman, George W., Lucretia, Dorcas, John, Sophronia, Joseph, and Mary. Mr. Antis- dale settled in the woods, on the south part of the Kirtland tract. He built a house and commenced clearing his land, but was taken sick and died in 1820, about two years from the time he first arrived. He was the first man that died in the township, and his funeral was the second in the township.
Waterman, eldest son of George W. Antisdale, came to Auburn with his parents, and settled at the center, where he built a house and remained until his death, which occurred in 1854. He was a bachelor.
George W., jr., second son, also came to Auburn, with his parents, and in 1827 married Sally Greeley, daughter of Clark Greeley. They had thirteen children—Silas G., Julius 0., Lucretia E., Julian, Albert, Laura, Frances, Sally, Augusta E., Ozeas D., Betsey, Wallace, and Mary. Julian died at the age of nine years; Wallace, at the age of twenty-one years; Albert, in 1879, at the age of forty-two years. He had a family, and resided at Chagrin Falls, Ohio. George W. Antisdale continued on the farm where his father died; cleared it up; built a nice house, and all the necessary out-buildings, and remained there the most of the time, until 1865, when he rented his farm and moved to Chagrin Falls, where he now resides. Mrs. Antisdale, previous to her marriage, followed teaching school, in Auburn and the surrounding townships, and became quite noted in her profession in that early day.
John, third son, also came to Auburn with his parents, and about 1834 married Mary Ann, also a daughter of Clark Greeley, and they had no children. Mr. Antisdale settled a short distance west of the center, and remained there until about 187i, when he rented his farm and removed to Chagrin Falls, where he now resides.
Joseph, fourth son, married Miss Harriet Morse, of Concord, Ohio. They had two children—Philo and Emily. Mr. Antisdale settled in Middlefield, and now resides in that township.
Roswell Rice, was born in Cherry Valley, New York; was married in 1807 to Nancy, daughter of Amziah and Nancy Keyes, and came to Auburn in 1819. Was a blacksmith by trade. He purchased some land at the corners and built
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a shop, and worked there four or five years; then sold out and moved to Mantua; purchased some land and built a shop, and continued to work at his trade there until 1842, when he sold out. He came back to Auburn and purchased the old homestead, where his father-in-law, Keyes, first settled. Mr. Rice had ten children—Edward C., Phila Ann, Porter, Nancy, Roswell, Harvey, Henry, Martha, Mary L, and Martin. He died in x86t.
Joseph Bartholomew came to Auburn from the State of New York in 1819. He married Thankful Turner, and they had nine children, whose names are Mary, Martha, Sherman, Susan, Cyrenus, Sylvester, Drayton, Zerelda, and Lorene. Mr. Bartholomew settled first west of the center; moved from there to the farm since owned by William Quinn, sr., and from there farther east, and finally settled on the Kirtland tract, opposite the farm now owned by George W. Antisdale, built a house and barn, cleared up his farm, sold out in 1837 or '38, and moved to Michigan, where he died years since.
Elijah Canfield, brother of Henry, was born in the State of New York; married Sally Decker, and they had one child, whose name was Sally. Mr. Canfield came to Auburn with his family in 1819, and settled in the woods on the Kirtland tract, a little east of where his brother Henry settled, cleared up his farm, and built all the necessary buildings for comfort and convenience. They died on the same farm several years since.
William Crafts, third son of John Crafts, was born in the State of New York in 18o1, came to Auburn about x82o, and married one Sarepta Colvin, and they raised one daughter—Aurilla. Mr. Crafts settled in Auburn valley, cleared up his farm, and was killed in 1839, near Punderson's mill, in Newbury, by being thrown from a horse. Mrs. Crafts died in ay.
Joseph Webster was born in Massachusetts, and came from there to Auburn in the spring of 1820; was married in 1815 to Sally Webster, the widow of one of his brothers. Her maiden name was Sally Whaley. They raised nine children, whose names were Huldah, Arcena, Cyrintha, Stephen, James, Melinda, Susan, and Almeda. Mr. Webster settled in the northeast part of the township, on the Mills tract, and cleared up his farm. He died on this place in 1854, and his wife died about 1865.
Hiram Webster came to Auburn with his step-father, and was married about 1830 to Elizabeth Upham, of Newbury, and they raised six children, whose names were Horace, Stephen, Eliza, Lucy Ann, Amos, and William. Mr. Webster purchased some land on the south side of the William Crafts farm, built a house and barn, and lived there for a series of years; finally sold out and moved to Michigan. His wife died there several years since.
Lyman Webster also came to Auburn with his step-father and purchased land in Newbury; was married about 1834 to Rachel Ann, daughter of Nicholas Silvernail. They raised several children, the names of the four oldest being Catharine J., William H., Hiram D., and Elizabeth A. There were two or three others, but we do not recollect. Mr. Webster traded his Newbury land for land in Auburn valley, and after occupying that several years, sold out to John B. Scudder, and moved with his family to Michigan, where he and his wife have since died.
Ephraim Wright was born in the State of New York, and there married Lydia Le Munyon. They had nine children, whose names were Morrison, T)iantha, Lester, Hannah, Alonzo, Edward, Plimpton, Maria, and Laura. Mr. Wright came to Auburn with his family in 1820, and settled at the center. He remained there until 1836, when he sold out to Gilbert Hinkley and moved to Michigan.
Lester Wright, second son of Ephraim Wright, was born in the State of New York; came to Auburn with his parents in the fall of 1819, and in 1836 married
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Pauline Hayes, daughter of Eli Hayes, of Burton, Ohio. They had two children, whose names were Ephraim and Eli. Mr. Wright left Auburn in the fall of 1836, and settled in Michigan, where his wife died in 1843. He married again, and in 1867 his second wife died. He then came back to Burton and married a niece of his first wife; returned to his home in Michigan, and in 1874 she was killed by lightning. In 1875 Mr. Wright returned to Auburn again, and in 1877 married the widow of William Crafts, and now resides a half mile east of Auburn corners, on the place where Mr. Crafts died.
Henry Canfield was born in the State of New York; was married in 1807 to Rachel Kent, and they raised a family of ten children, whose names were Hiram, Barton, Tyrus, Nathan B., Charles G., Hannah, George W., Henry, jr., Henry K., and Albert B. He came to Auburn with his family in t82x, and purchased land southwest of the center, on what is known as Bridge creek. On this creek was a very good mill-seat, where he built the first saw-mill in Auburn He was a carpenter and joiner by trade, and worked at that business more or less, while clearing up his farm. In those early days the wolves and bears were plenty, and people used to make pens to shut up their sheep in during the night, to keep them from being killed. Mr. Canfield having some sheep, built a pen on the south side of his log house, making the house one side of the pen. One night, just before dark, the boys drove up the sheep, and put them in the pen as usual. Mr. Canfield being away, working at his trade. Some time, during the night, Mrs. Canfield heard a great commotion among the sheep, and getting out of bed as soon as possible, she opened the door, and to her horror, saw a huge bear in the pen with the sheep. She went back into the house, went up the ladder into the loft, where the boys were sleeping, and tried to wake them up, but in trying to wake them without making such a noise as to scare away the bear, she did not succeed very well, but supposing she had made them understand the situation, she went down to see how the sheep and bear agreed, and behold old bruin had got out of the pen, and left, minus his sheep, and, no doubt, minus the contents of three well loaded rifles which were in the house at the time, provided the boys could have been waked up in time. Another time, when Mr. Canfield was away at work, Mrs. Canfield woke up one night, and found the house on fire. The fire was in the chimney, which was built on the outside of the house, of stone and sticks, and plastered over inside and out with mud. In this case the sticks took fire, and as soon as Mrs. Canfield could wake up the boys, they commenced operations to put out the fire. There was water in the creek close by, but it was so extremely cold that they could not get it, and it was evident that the house must burn up, but just as that critical moment, her oldest son, Hiram, conceived the idea of prying off the stick part of the chimney, and in a moment he was up there with a hand spike, and by an almost superhuman effort (being then almost frozen) succeeded in prying off the burning sticks which fell into the snow beneath, and thereby saved the house from burning up. By this time, Mrs. Canfield was almost frozen to death, but by getting into bed with her children, she succeeded in saving her life; these were some of the hardships and perils of pioneer life in Auburn. Mr. Canfield sold his farm and mill in 1834, to Jude May, and went to Cuyahoga Rapids, where he purchased some land, built a house, a saw and grist-mill, and in 1837 or '38 sold out and moved to Medina, but soon after, returned, and purchased a farm in Mantua; lived there several years, and finally sold out and returned to Auburn, purchased a farm on the north and south center road, south of the center, and Mrs. Canfield died there in 1868, and Mr. Canfield died at the same place in 1869, about one mile southeast of where they first settled forty-eight years before.
Hiram, eldest son of Henry Canfield, was born in the State of New York;
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came to Auburn with his parents, and, about 1828, was married to Sally Robinson, daughter of Asa Robinson, of Newbury. Mr. Canfield first purchased the farm now owned by S. L. Castlow, in the west part of the township, but soon sold out, and purchased some land at Cuyahoga Rapids; lived there a few years and then sold out, and purchased land in the Atwater tract, south of the corners, where he lived for many years; raised quite a large family, whose names were Francis, Henry, Henrietta, Mary, and Wade H. Mr. Canfield sold out in 1874 or 1875, and moved to Austin, Illinois, where he now resides.
Barton, second son, died young.
Tyrus, third son, came to Auburn with his father, and was married, in 1833, to Betsey, daughter of Rodger W. Antisdale, and they had seven children— Adolphus G., Celestia E., Terrestia, Wellington D., Hannah E., Nathan B., and Linmus T. Soon after his marriage Mr. Canfield built him a house just west of his father-in-law, Antisdales, and resided there until his death, which occurred on the night of May 15, 1858, in the following tragical manner: There was a family in the neighborhood of doubtful character, and Mr. Canfield, and other neighbors, had tried to get them away, by buying them out, and, after every effort to get rid of them peaceable had failed, the neighbors consulted together, and finally concluded to remove them at all hazards; and with this object in view, they met at the dwelling place of this family on the night above mentioned, and, while in the act of carrying out their plans, Mr. Canfield was shot, by some unknown person in the house, and died in a few moments.
Adolphus G., eldest son of Tyrus Canfield, was born in Auburn, and in 1860 married Augusta E., daughter of George W. Antisdale. They have two children—Seneca E. and Cora H. Mr. Canfield now resides on the farm formerly owned by Joseph Bartholomew.
Wellington D., second son of Tyrus, was born in Auburn, and in 1867 married Melissa, daughter of Emerson Parker, of Bainbridge. They have two children—Mertie and Henry. Mr. Canfield now resides in Kansas.
N. Byron, third son of Tyrus, was born in Auburn, and in 1873 married Julia F., daughter of G. L Sprague. They have one child—Estella. Mr. Canfield resides in the old homestead, where his father died.
Linmus T., fourth son, is unmarried, is a dentist by trade, and now resides at Chagrin Falls, Ohio.
D. N., son of Nathan B. Canfield, was born in Hiram, and was married in 1858 to Mary L., daughter of J. Parker Bartholomew. They have two children —Wade H. and Effre. Mr. Canfield now resides near Thorp's mills, in the southeast part of the township.
Nathan B., was married at Cuyahoga Rapids, to Lucy Ann Blair, but left there many years since, and now resides in some western State.
Charles G. married Laura Olds, about 1840, and now resides in Troy.
George W. married Jenett Merryfield, and now resides in Cleveland, Ohio.
Henry, jr., was born in Auburn. When about two years old he went with his brother to the State of New York on a visit; while there he was taken sick and died, and was buried by the side of his brother Barton, who had previously died in that State.
Henry R. was born in Auburn. He married a daughter of Chester Reed. They had one child—Ora E. Mr. Canfield died suddenly while at work in the harvest field, many years since.
Albert B., we think, married in Auburn, but now resides in some western State.
Francis, eldest son of Hiram Canfield, married Mary Harmon, of Mantua. They had two children—Hattie and Frank. Frank died when about two years old. Mr. Canfield settled west of his father, on land formerly owned by Charles
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Hinckley, and lived there a few years. In 1872 he sold out and moved to Austin, Illinois, where he now resides.
Henry married Emily, daughter of Elias H. Fish. He died, about 1864, in the State of Indiana, His widow married Orestes F. Wood, and she now resides in Brookfield, Missouri.
Wade H. married some years since, and now resides in Cleveland, Ohio. He is a lawyer by profession.
J. Palmer Bartholomew was born in the State of New York; was married in 1821 to Mary Wilson. They had thirteen children, nine of whom are now living. Their names are Alvirus P., Perleyett, Julia Ann, Chauncey A., Nelson S,, Betsey A., Mary L, Alonzo D., and Thomas C. Mr. Bartholomew came to Auburn in 1821, and settled on the Mills tract, in the northwest part of the township, built a house, lived there one year, and sold out. He next purchased some land farther south, on the Root tract, where he lived three years. He then sold out and purchased land near Henry Canfield's mills, on the Kirtland tract, and lived there eight years. Sold out again, and purchased lot number thirty-seven, on the Atwater tract, and there made a final stop. Mr. Bartholomew was a blacksmith by trade, and while clearing up his land worked more or less at his trade. He in due time cleared up his farm, built a nice dwelling house, and other necessary buildings for comfort and convenience, and died in 1863.
Alvirus P., eldest son of-J. Palmer, was born in the State of New York, came to Auburn with his parents, was married several years since, and moved to some western State.
Chauncey A., second son, was born in Auburn; was married several years since to a daughter of Chauncey Winchell, and we think they have no children. They reside in Mantua, Ohio.
Nelson S., third son, was born in Auburn; was married in 1865 to Eliza Webster, daughter of Hiram and Elizabeth Webster. They have rarsed three children, whose names are Henry D., Emma G., and Mary E. Mr. Bartholomew resides on the first east and west road from the south line of the township, on the old homestead where his father died, and his mother resides with him.% His first wife died in 1870, and he was married again in 1872 to Amy P., daughter of Ransom Brown. Mr. Bartholomew was living in the State of Michigan at the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, and enlisted in the Fifth volunteer cavalry, of that State, in 1862, and served until the close of the war. He was in the battles of Winchester, Gettysburg, and in- all the battles fought by Kilpatrick; was in the battle of the Wilderness, Winchester, Dinwiddie Courthouse, etc. In all, he was in eleven hard fought battles, beside several severe skirmishes; had two horses killed under him in action, was wounded once in the leg slightly, and very severely wounded in the shoulder at the battle of Dinwiddie Courthouse, from which he has never fully recovered, although he has never applied for a pension. Soon after the close of the war Mr. Bartholomew returned to Auburn, and is located as above stated.
Alonzo D., fourth son of J. Palmer, was also born in Auburn; was married several years since, and now resides in some western State.
Thomas C., fifth and youngest son, was also born in Auburn. He was married in r86o to Addie J. Quinn, daughter of John Quinn. They have two children, whose names are Zeno S. and Grant P. Mr. Bartholomew now resides west of the center, and owns the farm formerly owned by Luke Barney.
Charles Hinckley was born in the State of New York, in 1793 ; was married about 18r6 to Nancy Turner, and in 1822 came to Auburn. Settled first on the Kirtland tract, west of the corners; lived there a few years, and then sold
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Out, and purchased a farm on the second east and west road, south of the corners; cleared up his farm, and in 1838 sold out to Daniel Washburn, and purchased a farm in Troy, at what was known in those days as "Fox's corners." Mr. and Mrs. Hinckley had seven children—Horace D., James B., Porter L., Avery W., Nancy C., Leonara B., and Gilbert T. Mr. Hinckley died in 1842, and Mrs. Hinckley in 1866. Mr. Hinckley was the second justice of peace elected in Auburn.
Horace D. was born in the State of New York, in 1817; came to Auburn with his parents, and married Sylvia, daughter of Moses Bradley. He now resides in Mantua.
James B. was born in the State of New York, in 1818 ; came to Auburn with his parents, and married (we do not know the lady's name); has a family of several children, and now resides in Minnesota.
Porter L., third son of Charles Hinckley, was born in the State of New York, and came to Auburn with his parents in 1822. Married Louisa Robinson for his first wife, and his second wife was Abigail Curtis, of Chester. Both died without heirs, and are buried in Auburn. Mr. Hinckley went to Iowa many years since, and there married his third wife. They had two children—Louisa A. and Nancy E. Mr. Hinckley died in Minnesota, in r877.
Avery W. was born in the State of New York, and came to Auburn with his parents, in 1822. Married Jane Wright, and had one child—Clara. He died in Mantua in 1862, and is buried in the cemetery at Auburn corners.
Gilbert T. was born in 1835. In 1859 he married Emily A., daughter of Dudley Fox, of Troy. They have no children, and now reside at Mantua corners.
Erastus Eggleston was born at Hebron, Washington county, New York, January 7, 1779, and was married in Middlesex, Ontario-county, New York, October 26, 1817, to Mary E. Goodwin. They came from Middlesex to Auburn in November, 1823, and settled on what is known as Auburn valley. They raised a family of eleven children—Lucy Ann, Almira S., Samuel G., Mary J., Eliab D., Daniel E., Alvirus F., Alvira L Edwin R. Susan L., and Oceana R. Mr. Eggleston lived in Auburn valley several years, and finally sold out there and purchased a farm a short distance southeast of the corners. While he was boiling sap in a caldron kettle, one spring, beside a log, as was the custom in early days, one of his children (Alvirus) jumped upon the log and ran along by the kettle, slipped and fell in, and was so burned that he died within a few hours. Mr. Eggleston remained at this place a few years, then sold out and moved to Pioneer, Williams county, Ohio, and died there in 1862. We learn that his widow is still living at that place, and the most of the family live near her.
Samuel G. Eggleston, eldest son of Erastus Eggleston, was born in Auburn, Ohio, April to, 1824. He learned the cooper trade of his uncle, Daniel Goodwin—if we remember right—worked at his trade a few years, and was married September 4, r845, to Mary Silvernail, and soon after turned his attention to farming, following that business successfully until his wife's health failed. He then moved from Auburn to Pioneer, Williams county, Ohio, purchased a piece of land there, cleared it up, and built a house and other necessary buildings. His wife's health gradually failed, until October 1, i868, when she died. Mr. Eggleston married again, and we learn has some children, but we do not know their names.
Russell Hall was born in Rhode Island, and at the age of seven years went with his parents to Massachusetts. About 1806 or 1807 he married Polly Orcutt. Remained there a short time after he was married, and then moved to Chenang, New York; lived there awhile, then moved to. Ontario county, New York, remaining there until 1817, when he moved with his family to Ohio,
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stopping first in Chardon and remaining there six weeks; then started south with horses and wagon, going the first day as far as Judge Vene Stone's.; started second day in good season, and arrived that night at Mantua, near the north line. He then moved to the center of Auburn, being in the year 1824. He then purchased land on the Kirtland tract, near the center, and remained there three years. Sold this land to David Wright, and soon purchased a farm on the State road, north of the corners, of Isaac Mills, it being the farm now owned by Oliver F. Snow. Mr. Hall remained on this farm until 1839, when he sold it and purchased another on the center road, east of the corners, of Elliot Crafts, and died there in 186r. His widow remained on the old homestead until her death, which occurred in 1869, she having lived there thirty years.
Peter O., eldest son of Russell Hall, was born in Massachusetts, and came to Auburn, with his parents, in 1824. In 1839 he married Lucy Ann, daughter of James Dutton, and they had five children—Lewis S., Lucina, Zack, Corwin and Wallace W. After Mr. Hall was married he bought his father's farm, and lived. there until 1844, when he traded farms with William Woods, moved on the same, and has resided there ever since. He has purchased other lands until he now has three hundred and twenty-three acres.
Lewis S., eldest son of Peter O. Hall, was was in Auburn, and in 1863 married Abbie Donaldson. They had two children—Harry and Bert. Mr. and Mrs. Hall, not living very happily together in their marriage relations, mutually agreed to separate. Mr. Hall obtained a divorce, married again, and now resides in Madison, Lake county, Ohio.
Lucina, only daughter of Peter O. Hall, was married, in 1871, to Alfred Fowler, of Bainbridge; they have two children, and they now reside Newbury, Ohio.
Zack was born in Auburn, and in 1877 married Lillian E., daughter of William A. Messenger. They have two children.
Mr. Hall now resides on the farm where his grand parents died.
Corwin was born in Auburn, and in 1879 was married to Miss Ella H. James. They have no children. Mr. Hall resides with his father, and helps to carry on the farm.
Wallace W. is unmarried, and resides at home with his parents.
Russell Hall, jr., second son of Russell H., was born in Mantua, came to Auburn with his parents, and in 1849 was married to Charlotte, daughter of Benjamin Crafts. They have two children, whose names are Lydia. and Lorenzo. Mr. Hall first settled on the old homestead (where his father and mother died), and remained a short time, then purchased a farm in Auburn valley of one John Dinturff, and resided there several years. He sold out and moved back on the old homestead farm, and stayed two years; then sold the farm to his brother, Peter O., and moved to Chagrin Falls, where he now resides.
Benjamin Barney was born in some eastern State, and probably married in the State of New York,'as he came from that State to Auburn, with his family, about 1825, and purchased land on the Kirtland tract. Mr. Barney had a daughter, whose name was Nancy, and we think other children, but do not remember certain. Mr. Barney lived in town until about 1839, when he sold. out to Walter McLouth and moved to Dayton, Ohio, and we believe they are both dead.
Luke Barney, brother of Benjamin, was also born in some eastern State, and was married in Ellisburgh, New York, to Matilda Gore, sister of Luke Gore, of Newbury, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Barney had fifteen children—Benjamin, Leverett, Lemuel, Lorancey, Miranda, Mariah, Margett, Cyrintha, Melissa, Lucus, Clarissa, Emily, Orrissa, Lafayette W., and Livingston. All of the male part of this family of children are now dead.
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Luke and Benjamin both came to Auburn about the same time, and settled near each other. Luke remained here until about 1862, when he sold out to Julius Howard, and purchased land west of Cleveland, at or near Rocky river, and they died there several years since.
Leverett, eldest son of Luke Barney, was married to Emeline Wing, daughter of Tyler Wing, about 1840. They had four children—Montgomery, Lemuel, Franklin, and Tyler. Mr. Barney left town several years since, and died in Ashtabula county, Ohio. His widow resides in Iowa.
Curtiss Luther came to Auburn several years since, and married Lorancey Barney, daughter of Luke Barney. They had two children—Marian and Helen. Mr. Luther resided in several different places in town for several years, and finally moved to Michigan, and now resides in that State.
In 1825 Benjamin F. Chamberlain moved into Auburn and settled on the east and west center road, near the west line of the township. He came from the State of New York here, but was born in the State of Connecticut. He was married in 1822, to Lydia Hungerford, and they raised seven children— H. G., William H., Louisa M., Lydia B., Clemenza, Addison B., and Spencer F. Mr. Chamberlain's mother, and his brothers, John and Joseph, and his wife's father and mother, all came from the State of New York together—came through with teams, there being no other way to travel at that time. The roads were very bad, and they made very slow progress from where they started to Buffalo, and much slower from there to the end of their journey. His account of the journey from Buffalo is as follows: "They started in the morning, crossed Buffalo creek and traveled three miles and put up for the night. The next day they traveled about four miles, and the next morning got ready to start and were told they could not get through the Cattaraugus swamp on that road, so they turned to the left and took a circuitous route through the woods, and at night came to an Indian village, of the Cattaraugus tribe. There was a mission house at that place. Some slept in the wagons over night, and some slept with the Indians in their log huts; they were well treated by the Indians, and had a good night's rest. They started again the next morning, and some of the Indians volunteered to go with them, and show them where to cross the Cattaraugus creek. They reached the creek during the day, and under the guidance of the Indians forded the same in safety, and reached the lake shore road again that night, having traveled but a short distance that day, the roads being very bad. The next day they pursued their journey, with the same results—short distance traveled and very tired when night came—and so they traveled on until they reached Leroy, where there had been some land located for Mr. Chamberlain, which, on viewing, he did not like, and soon traded it for land in Bainbridge; sold that soon after, and purchased land and settled in Auburn, as above stated."
There was a small log house on the land when Mr. Chamberlain purchased it, and after moving in, and sleeping over night, he got up early in the morning, and, as Mr. Chamberlain stated it, the first business of importance that he did that day was to cut his foot so bad that he was confined to the house until the first day of April following—something over five months—and to add to his misfortune, about the time he cut his foot, he was attacked' with a violent fever, and obliged to go back to the State of New York, where he came from, and that lasted him four years before it broke. But, notwithstanding all his misfortune, he kept at work clearing his land, paid for his first purchase, and, by his industry and perseverance, he has added to his possessions, until he now owns five hundred and seventy acres of land, and his is one of the farms owned in Auburn that has not changed hands for the past fifty-three years. Mr. Chamberlain's wife died in 1869.
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William H. was married several years since, and now resides in Russell. One of the daughters married Harvey Washburn, and, we think, died several years since.
Addison B. is unmarried. Resides with his father, and helps to carry on the farm.
Spencer F. was born in Auburn; was married in 1870, to Lucinda Durfee, and, about a year and six months after their marriage, she went to an orchard some distance from the house, after some apples, and, while there, was attacked by a vicious bull, and so badly injured that she died in a few hours after.
Gadadias Stafford came to Auburn from the State of New York in 1827, was married to Ludia Stafford about 1815, and they had nine children—Reuben, Elmer, Abram, Zilpha, Huldah., Hannah, Anson, Joshua, and Susannah. He purchased land of Perkins, just east of the center, on the Kirtland Tract, and resided there until 1838, when he sold out and moved to Chardon, and from there to Michigan, where he died in 1865, and his widow died in 1879. We believe this family of children all reside in the western States, except Reuben, who is now living in Chardon, Ohio.
James Dutton was born in the State of New Hampshire; went from there to the State of Vermont, and, in 1812 married Miss Clarissa Lathrop. After their marriage, Mr. Dutton moved to St. Lawrence county, in the State of New York, where he remained for several years. He then moved to Canandagua, Ontario county, where he remained a year or two, and, in 1829, came to Auburn, with his family; and first stopped on a farm on the first east and west road, south of the corners, owned by John Morey, where he remained about four months. He then moved a short distance farther west, on to the farm then owned by the heirs of George W. Antisdale, where he remained two years and a half. He then purchased a farm, west of the corners, of Leicester Perkins, and as part pay for said farm he built for said Perkins the building at the corners, now known as the "old red store." Mr. Dutton was a carpenter and joiner by trade, and worked at that business the most of the time, leaving his sons at home to carry on the farm. Mr. and Mrs. Dutton had a family of nine children, whose names are: John H., Betsey H., Lucy Ann, Charles 0., Rufus, James T., George E., Clarissa E., and William C. In the winter of 1833-34, Mr. Dutton prepared the east room of his dwelling-house for a school-room, hired a teacher, and his own children, together with a few of the neighboring children, composed the school. This was the first select school taught in Auburn. Mr. Dutton followed working at his trade until about 1847, when his health began to fail,. and he turned his attention to matters at home, where he built a new dwelling-house and other necessary buildings for convenience. He died in 1858. His widow remained on the old homestead the most of the time after his death; but while living with her daughter, Mrs. Rufus Pettibone, in Bainbridge, in 1863, she died.
John H., eldest son of James Dutton, was born in Vermont; came to Auburn with his parents, and, in 1834, married Miss Prudence Wheeler, of Burton, Ohio. They had three children, whose names were: James B., Ellen and Frederick. Mr. Dutton was a ;moulder by trade, and, while working in Cleveland, in 1857, was taken sick and died. His widow and family soon after moved to Michigan, and she and the eldest son died there some years since. Mr. and Mrs. Dutton were both brought back to Auburn, and were buried in the cemetery, at the center of the town.
Charles 0., second son, was born in the State of New York; came to Auburn with his parents, and, in 2840, was married to Miss Tempa L Barnes, daughter of Hosea Barnes. They had five children, whose names were: Merritt, Antoinette, Myron H., Fayette and Ann L. Mr. Dutton, after his marriage, first
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settled north of his father's, on land owned in an early day by Isaac Butts, and lived on that farm nine years, when he sold out to his father, and purchased a farm on the State road, of one Nathaniel Stone; moved on to that farm, and his wife died there in 1863. In 1864, Mr. Dutton married, for his second wife, the widow of William Ferris, of Newbury, Ohio, and they remained on the farm until 1872, when he rented his place to his sons, Myron H. and Fayette, and moved to Chardon, O., where he now resides. Mr. Dutton held several township offices while residing in the town, among which were: constable, trustee, assessor, and clerk. Mr. Dutton learned the carpenter and joiner's trade of his father, and now follows that business for an occupation.
Rufus, third son, was born in the State of New York, and came to Auburn with his parents. His autobiography will be found in another part of this history.
James T. was born in the State of New York, and came to Auburn with his parents in 1829. He was married in 1845, to Harriet C., daughter of Hosea Barnes. They had two children: Eleanor D. and Clarance H. Soon atter they were married, they settled north of the center, on the farm now owned by E. Y. Hannum, lived there two years, then purchased a farm a short distance east of the center, moved there, and lived nine years; sold out and purchased a farm on the State road, south of the corners, of one Asahel Green, moved there, and were living on that place when Dr. Dutton died in 1869. His widow, daughter and son still reside there, and the son carries on the farm. Mr. Dutton held several township offices, among which were constable, trustee and assessor.
George E. was born in the State of New York, and came to Auburn with his parents. In 1852 he married Sophia A., daughter of Benjamin Crafts. They had two children whose names were Byron G. and Clara S. Clara S. died young. Mr. Dutton lived in several different places in the township, after his marriage, and worked at the carpenter and joiner's trade. In 1 856 he purchased the old homestead, and turned his attention to farming, which he has followed ever since. He has held the office of justice of the peace two terms, and the office of assessor one term.
William C., youngest son, came to Auburn with his parents, and in 1854 was married to Lima A. Ellis, daughter of Horace Ellis. They have no children. Mr. Dutton purchased his farm, on which he now resides, of his brother, Charles O. Dutton, being the first farm on the first north and south road, west of Auburn corners.
Merritt Dutton, eldest son of Charles O. Dutton, was born in Auburn. When the first call for seventy-five thousand men was issued by the president to put down the rebellion down, Mr. Dutton enlisted, but before the company in which he enlisted got ready to report at headquarters, the seventy-five thousand had responded, and Mr. Dutton was discharged, and came home. Not being satisfied with his experience, on the call for three months' recruits, the same year (1862) he again enlisted in the service, and was taken prisoner at Harper's Ferry; and after some two months or more, was paroled, and again returned home. This was in the fall of 1862. In 1863 he engaged in the government service, and went to Nashville Tennessee, where he remained until August, 1864, when he again enlisted, and went into the naval service, "Mississippi squadron," and was stationed a short distance above New Orleans, where he remained until the close of the war. He then returned home, and in 1866 married Jennett A. Mott, daughter of Zebdial Mott. They have had four children, one of whom died young. The names of the three living are Charles M., Dial M., and
Frank A. Mr. Dutton lived in different parts of the township until r869, when he moved to the State of Missouri, where he remained until r876; he then returned with his family, and now owns and resides on a farm in the southeast part of Troy.
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Myron was born in Auburn. He married a Miss Blair, daughter of Roswell Blair, of Newbury, Ohio. They now reside in Newbury, and have one or two children.
Fayette was born in Auburn. In 1872 he married Ellen M. Ward, daughter of Marcus Ward, of Russell, Ohio. They have two children, whose names are Sarah A. and Jesse F. Soon after their marriage, Mr. Dutton rented his father's farm, two and a quarter miles north of the corners, and there lost his wife in 1878. He married, for his second wife, Miss Malinda Woodard, and they have one child, whose name is C. O. Mr. Dutton still resides on his father's farm.
Byron G., only son of George Dutton, was born in Auburn, and in 1877 was married to Mary C., daughter of Lyman G. Sprague. They have one child, whose name is Lepha J. Mr. Dutton resides with his father, and helps carry on the farm. He is now serving his second term as township clerk.
Daniel Butts was born in the State of New York; came to Auburn in 1829, and was married in 1832 to Eunice Keyes, daughter of Amaziah Keyes. They had four children, all born in Auburn, whose names were, Rosina M., Aldrich F., Ambrose A., and Almina N. Mr. Butts first purchased a farm on the center road, east of Auburn corners, built a house, and lived there some three or four years. In the spring of 1833 he sold out to William Crafts, and purchased one hundred acres of land on the State road, south of the corners, built the necessary buildings for comfort and convenience, cleared up his farm, and paid for it by his own industry and economy. He died in 1874. Mr. and Mrs. Butts lived together almost forty years, with their family circle unbroken.
Aldrich F., eldest son of Daniel Butts, was married to Augusta King in 1850. They have no children. They now reside in St. Thomas, Canada, where Mr. Butts has a good position as superintendent of schools.
Ambrose, second son, was married in 1863 to Libbie Henderson. They had one child—Dio W. Mr. Butts was reputed to be the strongest man that ever lived in Auburn, having lifted the enormous weight of two thousand seven hundred and thirty-seven and three-fourths pounds dead weight. He died in 1870.
Daniel R. Bray was born in the State of New York; came to Ohio, and first settled in Russell township. He was married in 1854 to Rosina M. Butts, daughter of Daniel Butts. Soon after his marriage he came to Auburn, and purchased a farm on the first east and west road, south of the corners, where he resided several years. They had three children, one of whom died quite young. The names of those living are Gilbert A. and Daniel S. Mr. Bray rented his farm a few years since, and purchased a house and lot at Auburn corners, where he now resides.
Ashley Crafts, eldest son of Thomas Crafts, was born in the State of New York, and about 1829 married Clarissa Scuddew, and, we think, came to Auburn the same year, and settled in the valley, half a mile north of the east and west center road. Mr. and Mrs. Crafts had one child, whose name was Susan. Mr. Crafts was a carpenter and joiner by trade, and worked at that business some years. About 1833 or '34 Ashley, Alanson T. and Benjamin Crafts, built a saw-mill on Ashley's land, and a few years after Ashley built a furnace near the saw-mill, and carried on the furnace business several years, during which time he invented the " Rising Star" cooking stove, got it patented, and made considerable money in manufacturing that and other kinds of stoves, plows, hollow-ware, etc.
About 1834 Mr. Crafts experienced religion, and joined the Protestant Methodist church, but after a few years left that church and joined the Free Will Baptists, and became a noted preacher of that denomination. Mr. Crafts left Auburn several years since, and we do not know where he now resides.
Alanson T., second son, was also born in the State of New York, and about
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1830 married Ann Hoard, daughter of John Hoard, and we think came to Auburn the same year, and settled in the valley, near his brother, Ashley. Mr. and Mrs. Crafts had eight children—Jeffrey T., Sarah, Lovena, Olive, Malvina, Lorette, Charlotte, and Susan. Mr. Crafts sold out several years since, and purchased land at Cuyahoga Rapids, and now resides at that place.
Arastus R., third son, was also born in the State of New York, and about 1831 married Betsey Fairbanks, came to Auburn the same year, and also settled in the valley, where he lived a few years, then sold out, and also moved to Cuyahoga Rapids. Mr. and Mrs. Crafts had three children—Darwin, Alvira and Leona. Mrs. Crafts died in 1879.
Benjamin, fourth son, was also born in the State of New York, came to Auburn in 1829, and married Elsey H. Whitcomb, daughter of Israel Whitcomb, who was one of the first settlers of Troy (then Welshfield). They hqd eleven children —Charlotte P., Sophia A., Miles, Abram H., Martha J., Paulina M., Milas B., Ellen M., Susan R., Alice C., and Jerome. The first Miles, and Jerome, the oldest and youngest sons, died young.
Mr. Crafts first settled on the east and west center road, east of the corners; cleared up his farm, and built a nice dwelling-house and buildings. In 1845 his house took fire and burned to the ground. He soon built another on the same spot, and remained there until 1859, when he sold out to his two sons and purchased the farm formerly owned by Dr. A. B. Hoard moved there and remained until 1857; sold again, and purchased thirty acres of the old farm where he first settled, in 5830; moved and lived there until 187 2, when he again sold, and purchased the farm north of the corners, formerly owned by Morgan Orton, where he now resides.
Abram H., second son, was born in Auburn, and was married, in 1858, to Marion E., daughter of Dudley Fox, of Troy. They had two children--Addie P. and Seigel A. Soon after his marriage he purchased the old homestead of his father, and died there, in 1866.
Miles B., third son, was born in Auburn, and in 1864 married Julia F'., daughter of Augustus Gilbert, of Newbury, Ohio. They have one child—Arthur. Mr. Crafts first settled on a part of the old homestead—lived there a few years, then sold, and purchased the farm where his father now resides, which he sold to him in 1872, and from there moved to Austin, Cook county, Illinois, where he now resides.
Ellen M. is unmarried, and lives at home with her parents. The rest of the daughters are all married, and but two of them, Sophia and Pauline, now live in this township.
Martha J. married Stephen Houghton, and they now reside in Newburgh, Ohio.
Susan R. married Henry Webber, and they now reside in Iowa.
Alice C. married C. Kellogg, of Troy, and resides rn Parkman, Ohio.
Jacob Ensign, son of Jacob and Polly Ensign, was born in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, in 1787; was married, in 1812, to Lucy Brooker, and they had nine children—Sally M., Harvey N., James B., Lucy J., Joel R., Hannah M., Harriet P., Clarissa M. and Zilpha L Mr. Ensign came to Krlburn, with his family, in 1828, and settled on the State road, one mile and a quarter north of Auburn corners, and resided on the same farm until 1873. His wife died, March 4, 1873, on the old homestead. Soon after her death he sold out, and ever since has resided with his children. He is now ninety-two years of age, and bids fair to live a number of years yet; being almost as spry as a boy, and twice as jovial. He has never called a doctor but three times for himself, up to this date (September, 1879), and was never laid up with sickness, only a day or two at a time, in his whole life.
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Hervey N. Ensign, eldest son of Jacob Ensign, was born in Massachusetts; came to Auburn with his parents, and, about 1836, was married to Diana, daughter of John Hoard. They had one child—Patience 0. Previous to their marriage Mr. Ensign purchased land, on the Mills tract, in the north part of the township, on which they settled. Mrs. Ensign died there in 1874. In 1877, Mr. Ensign married, for his second wife, Vielda Smith, whose maiden name was Sweet, daughter of Henry and Joicy Sweet, and they now reside on the same farm where Mr. Ensign first settled.
Leonard Hopkins was born in Parkman, Ohio; came to Auburn several years since, and married Patience 0., daughter of Hervey N. Ensign. They have one child, a son, but we do not remember his name. They now reside in Middlefield, Ohio.
James B., second son of Jacob Ensign, was born in Massachusetts; came to Auburn with his parents, and, in 1837, married Miss Abigail Hoard, daughter of John Hoard, and they have four children—John H., Nancy M., Sally Ann, and Theresa M. Mr. Ensign purchased a farm in Auburn valley, soon after he was married, and remained there until about eight or ten years ago, when he rented his farm to his son, and moved to Chagrin Falls, and now resides at that place.
John H. Ensign, only son of James B. Ensign, was born in Auburn, and was married in 1868 to Jennie P. Hopkins, daughter of Matthew A. Hopkins, of Parkman, Ohio. They have two children, Nellie J. and Ernest. Mr. Ensign resides in Auburn valley.
Joel married Sabra Smith, daughter of James Smith, of Newbury, Ohio. They had a family of children, but we do not know their names. Mr. Ensign moved to Michigan with his family several years since.
John Hoard, if we remember correctly, was born in Rhode Island, came to the State of New York in an early day, and there married Patience McNeer. They had eight children, whose names were Alva B., Celestia, Anna, Charles, Diana, Abigail, Amos, and Nancy, He came to Auburn with his family about 1830, and settled in Auburn valley, on the Cowles tract, where he remained until 1848, when he sold out, and moved west of the State road, and lived with his youngest son until he died in 1854. Mrs. Hoard survived her husband a number of years, but died several years since.
Alva B. Hoard, eldest son of John Hoard, was born in the State of New York in 1808; was married in 1832, to Betsey Silvernail. They moved to Auburn in 1832, and took up their residence in Auburn valley. They had four children, whose names were James M., Eliza J., Mary M., and Charles H. Mr. Hoard was a physician of the botanic school, and had an extensive practice in Auburn and the surrounding townships. Dr. Hoard manufactured a liniment which was known in those early days, as Hoard's liniment, and was called one of the best liniments then in use. The doctor lost his wife in 1847, and was married again the same year, to Mary E. Wells. They had one child, whose name was William R. Dr. Hoard resided in Auburn until 1857, when he sold out, and moved to Wisconsin and Iowa, where he practiced several years, when he returned to Ohio, and is now practicing medicine at Chagrin Falls, Ohio.
Charles Hoard came to Auburn with his parents, and was married in 1836, to Lucy J., daughter of Jacob Ensign. They had five children, whose names were Permelia, John R., Charles N., Clarissa, and Frank. Mr. Hoard lived in different places in the township for several years, finally sold out and moved to Newbury, and died there in 1862. His widow is still living, and resides in Michigan.
Amos Hoard came to Auburn with his parents, and was married about 1845, to Susan Higley. He moved to Mantua about 1855, and was killed by lightning soon after taking up his residence in that township.
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John Brown came to Auburn from New York or some eastern State; was married to Polly Hayden, and they raised nine children, whose names were Harriet, Maria, Jacob, William, Laura, William, second, Jacob, second, George, and Mary. Mr. Brown came to Auburn about 1830, and settled on the same road with the Antisdales, only farther west, on the Kirtland tract, cleared up his farm, and built a nice house and barns. Mr. and Mrs. Brown both died on the old homestead—Mr. Brown in 1871, and Mrs. Brown in 1875—having lived there upwards of forty years.
Henry Capron was born in some eastern State, came to Auburn about 1835, and about 1838 married Laura Brown, daughter of John Brown, and they had three children—Sabrina, Lovina, and Julia. Mr. Capron settled on the north part of the Root tract, cleared up his farm, built a nice dwelling house, barns, etc, and died in 1866. His widow has died since. Mr. Capron held several different offices while living in town, and if we remember correctly, was one of the acting justices at the trme of his death.
Leicester Perkins was born in the State of Massachusetts. He came to Ohio with his parents in 1866, and they were forty days on the road. They came by the way of Pittsburgh, and were on the Alleghany mountains on the day of the great eclipse in that year. The old gentleman, Perkins, and family, put up with Judge Atwater (where Mantua station is now located), on the night of the thirty-ninth day of their journey, and next day arrived at Aurora, the place of their destination, and settled some two miles northeast of the center. Leicester worked for his father and helped to clear up his farm, and at the age of eighteen years his father gave him his time, end he commenced cropping and clearing land by the job, and at the end of five years he had earned and laid by the sum of one thousand dollars. At the age of twenty-three he married Nancy Blish, she being the twelfth child in her father's family. They have four children—Matilda, Harriet, Lorette, and Paulina, all of whom are now living. Mr. Perkins came from Aurora to Auburn in 1830, and settled on the east and west center road, west of Auburn corners, farmed it for three years, then sold out to James Dutton, and in 1832 he built what is known as the "Red store," at the corners; moved his family into the west part of the building, and rented the east part to Charles Woods, for a store, which he occupied for one year. Mr. Perkins then went into the mercantile business himself, sold goods there ten years, then sold out and purchased the farm joining the one he first owned, on the west; and now resides at that place. Mr. Perkins, by his industry and economy, has gained quite a fortune, and he and his wife are enjoying the full benefits of it in their old age. It will be seen by the above that Mr. Perkins was great on the chopping and clearing, and he offers to lay a wager of fifty dollars that he himself, individually, has chopped and cleared more land than any man in Geauga county. Some years since Mr. Perkins served one term as county commissioner.
Job Warren was born in the State of New Jersey, was married in 1835 to Eliza Burden, and they had thirteen children-Nancy, George, Thomas, Mahlon, Charles, Job, Eliza, Patience, Adaline, Emmor, Edith, Sarah, and Samuel. Mr. Warren came to Auburn in 1830, and settled in the northwest corner of the township, cleared up a large farm, built a large house and barns, and now resides on the same farm. His wife died in 1866, and Job married again, but was not much comforted.
Charles Warren was accidently killed by his brother Mahlon, in 1849, under the following circumstances: They were out in the woods, north of the house, hunting, and came to a small stream of water. Charles walked across the stream on a log, and just as he stepped off the log, and Mahlon was in the act of stepping on to cross over, his gun went off and killed Charles, almost instantly.
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Mahlon lived some years after; married Amy, daughter of Ransom Brown, and died, without heirs, in 1855.
Job Warren, jr., enlisted in the war of the Rebellion, in r861, and was killed in action the same year, at Bloomfield, Missouri.
Emmor Warren was born in Auburn, and in 1869 was married to Kate Page ; they have had four children—Edward J., Frederick J., Enfield J., and Lucy M. He now resides on the old homestead, and his father resides with him.
Samuel, youngest son of Job Warren, is married, and resides in the west part of the township.
Nehemiah Webster was born in Massachusetts in 179r ; was married in 18'9 to Sally Steadman ; came to Ohio in 1821, and settled in Fowler, Trumbull county; sold out there in 1831, came to Auburn, and settled in Auburn valley. They had three children—Gilbert, Huldah and dvira. About 1850 Mr. Webster sold out and moved into Troy; then to Cuyahoga Rapids, and to Thompson, where he lost his wife, in 1875. Mr. Webster soon after sold his farm there, and now resides with his daughter, Mrs. Moody White, at Mantua corners, Portage county, being now eighty-eight years of age.
John Barber came to Auburn with old Uncle William Quinn, from Pennsylvania, in 1831. He built a house on lot seven, Atwater tract, which was one of the first built on that tract. When John came in he brought a very large white bull with him, well broke to harness. One day John harnessed up the 41d bull, hitched him to his one-horse wagon, and went up to Auburn corners after some articles for the use of his family, and, on the way home, the old bull got on a rampage, either from seeing some other cattle that he was anxious to get with, or some other cause, John never could exactly tell, the old bull, however, made a break and ran, throwing John out of the wagon, and tearing things to pieces generally. On being interviewed next day by his neighbors, as to his calamity, John said he pulled on the lines as hard as he could, and kept saying "whoa, Bully! whoa, Bully!!" but old Bully didn't whoa worth a cent. John left the town years ago, and whether he took old Bully with him or not we are unable to say. John had three sons, and, we think, one of them remained in town some years after his father left, and was taken sick and died at Elijah Canfield's.
Numan Wadsworth was born in Middlebury, Vermont, in 1788; came to Middlesex, New York, with his parents, in 1797, and, in 1811, married Patty Blodgett, daughter of Ludim Blodgett, of Gorham, New York. They had six children—Maria, Spencer L., Maryett, Annis B., Martha G., and Eliza M. Mr. Wadsworth first settled, after his marriage, in Middlesex; lived there a few years, and then sold out and purchased a farm in Gorham, where he remained until 1820, when he again sold out and moved to Harbor Creek, Erie county, Pennsylvania. He purchased a farm there; but, not liking the country very well, disposed of his property and, in 1832, came to Auburn, Ohio. He first settled in Auburn valley ; lived there a few years, then sold out and purchased a farm on the east town road, where he lived several years. He then sold out and moved to Hiram. From there he moved to Mantua, then moved to Claridon, and, in 1856, again returned to Auburn, and died, near the corners, in 1873, aged eighty-six years and ten months. His widow still survives him, and now resides in Chardon, Ohio. Mr. Wadsworth was a volunteer in the war of a r 2, and obtained a land warrant for his services, but was not in the service long enough to entitle him to a pension. Under the act passed March 9, 1878, his widow became entitled to, and is now drawing a pension.
Maria, eldest daughter of Numan Wadsworth, married James M. Hoxter. She died in Troy, in /85r.
Spencer L, only son of Numan Wadsworth, was born in the State of New
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York; came to Auburn with his parents, and, in 1835, married Betsey, eldest daughter of Amos Palmer, of Troy, Ohio. They had four children—Oscar, John F. H., Sarah M., and George W. Oscar died young, and John F. H. died, at the corners, in 186o, at the age of twenty-one years.
Sarah M. is married, and resides in Cleveland, Ohio.
George W. resides in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Mr. Wadsworth has resided in Auburn over forty years; has resided at or near the corners for the past twenty years; has held several different township offices, among which were: constable, township clerk, assessor, and justice of the peace. He now resides at the corners, and holds the office of postmaster.
Maryette married Ulysses Spink. She died in 1838.
Annis B. also married Ulysses Spink, and now resides in Ravenna, Ohio.
Martha G. married Wooster Shaw, who died. She then married Dwight C. Kellogg, and now resides in Chardon.
Eliza M. married Robert Denel, and now resides in Auburn.
Christopher Stafford, son of Jonathan and Phebe Stafford, was born in the State of New York; was married, in 1830, to Emily Rockwell, and they have seven children-Orrin P., Cornelius, George W., Perry C., William H., James A. and Mary Ann; all born in Auburn. Mr. Stafford came to Auburn in 1832; bought land in the northwest part of the township, on the Darling tract; cleared up the same; built the buildings necessary for comfort and convenience, and he and his wife are now enjoying the benefits of their hard labor; having lived together forty-nine years, with their family circle unbroken.
Orrin P., eldest son of Christopher Stafford, was born in Auburn, in 1833. He married Emily Barney, daughter of Luke Barney, and they now reside at Rocky river, west of Cleveland, Ohio. At the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion Mr. Stafford lived in Iowa, and enlisted in the service from that state; came back after the war closed, and resides at the place above stated.
Cornelius, in 1853, married Lurana L. Gifford. They have two children— Norman G., and Mary E. Mr. Stafford was in the war of the Rebellion, and belonged to the Ninth Ohio battery. They now reside in the northwest part of the township, on the Mills tract.
George W., in 1865, married. Harriet, daughter of Horace Ellis. They have no children. In 1871, Mr. Stafford and George W. Barnes built a steam sawmill, a short distance northwest of the center of Auburn. In 1873, he bought Mr. Barnes' interest, and, in 1874, the mill took fire and burned to the ground. He soon after put up a temporary mill on the same site, sawed out the lumber and timber for another mill, and built the saw-mill, a few rods west of the center, and has since attached an extensive cheese-box factory, known as the "Auburn box works," together with planers, matchers, and a mill for grinding feed for horses and cattle. Mr. Stafford keeps a number of men in his employ, and manufactures from twenty-five to thirty thousand cheese boxes per annum, besides doing an extensive business in sawing, planing, matching, etc., etc. Mr. Stafford has held the office of township treasurer several years in succession.
Perry C. in 1871 married Mary Messenger, daughter of Willram A. Messenger, and they have no children. Mr. Stafford belonged to the Forty-second Ohio volunteer infantry, and did good service in the war of the Rebellion. He now owns and resides on the farm for many years owned by Uncle Job Warren.
William H. in 1866 married Edith Warren, daughter of Job Warren, and they have no children.
James A. in 1868 married Florence Hickox, daughter of the present wife of Henry Sweet. They have no children. They now reside at the center, and Mr. Stafford is engaged in the mercantile business, and is also postmaster of
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Bridge Creek office, located at that place. Mary Ann, the only daughter, married Charles A. Mills.
Charles Stafford came to Auburn from the State of New York in the fall of 1832, and settled at Auburn corners; was a blacksmith by trade. He was married in 1835 to Eunice Ann Marble, daughter of John Marble. The same year she died by reason of. her clothes taking fire from a kettle of hot varnish, which had taken fire from overheating. She lived seven days after the accident, in great agony, when death came to her relief. In 1836 Mr. Stafford married again for his second wife Martha Smith, daughter of Jeremiah Smith, and they had two children—Helen A., and Louisa. Mr. Stafford carried on blacksmithing for a number of years at the corners, then went into the furnace business, and manufactured plows, stoves, etc. He finally sold out, and next engaged in the mercantile business; carried on that business for a number of years. He died in 1871, near where he first settled, at the corners.
Ransom Brown was born in the State of New York, and was married in 1819 to Hannah Washburn. They had six children—Mary, Barnabas, Rowena, Amy, Ransom, and William. Mr. Brown came to Auburn in 1832, and settled on the center road west of the center having purchased his land of one Joseph Woodard. Mr. Brown cleared up his farm, built a nice dwelling house and other necessary buildings, and died in 1875, he and his wife having lived together almost fifty-six years. His wife is still living, and resides on the old homestead, which is situated at the last four corners on the center road going west, and has been known for forty-five years as Brown's corners.
Barnabas Brown, eldest son of Ransom Brown, came to Auburn with his parents, and was married about 1842 to Henriette Briggs. They had two children—Marian M., and Henry. Mr. Brown resides in the southwest part of the township.
Ransom, jr., second son, is married, and resides near the center.
William married Eliza Carr, daughter of Gabriel Carr. They had two children—Arthur H., and John. Mr. Brown resides in the west part of the township.
Frederick Weston came from Bainbridge to Auburn in 1875. He married Marian M. Brown, daughter of Barnabas Brown. They had one child—Henry
C. Mr. Weston resides on the farm, owned in an early day, by Huntington Trescott, one and a half miles north of Brown's corners.
Elihu Pettingill was born in Norwich, Connecticut, and was married to Susannah Waldsworth, in 1791. They had ten children. He moved with his family to Auburn in 1832, and first settled where W. H. Mills now resides. Stayed there five years, and then sold out and purchased the farm where his son-in- law, Luther Maynard, now resides, and died there in 1843. He is the man Pettingill mentioned by Hon. A. G. Riddle, in the Cleveland Leader, but was not exactly the man there represented, so far as the Sunday was concerned.
Nathan L. Reed was born in the State of New York; came to Auburn in 1832, and was married about that time, to Almira Stafford, and they had four sons—Abram M., Marian R., Leeman M., and Duane R. Mr. Reed first settled near the center, but soon sold out and purchased a farm on the first east and west road, south of the corners, where he lived until 1853, when he sold out and moved to Michigan, and now resides in that State.
Leeman M., son of Nathan L..Reed, was born in Auburn, went to Michigan with his parents in 1853; came back a few years after, and married Betsey, daughter of John Dinturff, and widow of Edward Frazee, who accidentally shot himself (an account of which is given in another part of this history.) Mr. and Mrs. Reed have but one child, a daughter-Hattie. Mr. Reed resided in the northeast part of Troy for several years, and now owns a farm where his
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father-in-law, Dinturff, died. A few years since Mr. Reed rented the farm and moved to Cleveland, where he now resides.
Levi Cook was born in Rhode Island, and there mar