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LOUDON TOWNSHIP.

GEORGE D. ACKER, farmer, P.O., Fostoria, was born in Clarion County, Penn., February 6, 1834, son of George and Catherine (Delp) Acker, of German descent, and who settled in Washington Township, Hancock Co., Ohio, in April, 1853. They were parents of ten children, of whom nine grew to maturity: Mary, wife of Enoch Farmer; Susan, wife of Audridge Cathon; George D.; Christian K.; Andrew I.; William J.; Warren A.; Thomas G., Sevilla E., wife of Jacob Eckert, and Ellen J., wife of Robert Hooton. Our subject remained in his native county until eleven years of age, then moved with his parents to Mahoning County, Ohio, where they resided eight years. George D. Acker received a common school education, and in 1853 located in Fostoria, serving a throe years' apprenticeship at the shoe-maker's trade with J. Q. Albert, after which he worked as journeyman up to 1802. During the late war of the Rebellion he enlisted, August 18, 1862, in Company I, One Hundred and Twenty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving as a private up to April 6, 1863, when he was promoted to second lieutenant, and January 6, 1865, was promoted to first lieutenant. June 15, 1863, he was wounded, taken prisoner at Winchester, Va., and confined in Libby Prison eleven months; from there he was transferred successively to Danville, Va., Macon and Savannah, Ga., Charleston and Columbia, S. C., escaping from the last named point November 3, 1864. He reported to the Union Army at Dalton, Ga., whence he was sent to Gen. Steedman, at Chattanooga, Tenn., and ordered to the officers' hospital on Lookout Mountain. January 20, 1865, he reported in person to Secretary Stanton, at Washington, D. C., by whom he was given thirty day, to report to his regiment. After rejoining his regiment he was sent before a board of medical examiners, who ordered his discharge on account of disability March 16, 1865. He immediately returned to Fostoria, this county, and was appointed street commissioner for one year. After this he engaged as clerk till 1874, when he was elected sheriff of Seneca County and re-elected in 1876, serving two terms; in 1879. Mr. Acker located on the farm he now occupies in Loudon Township. He was married, May 3, 1857, to Julia A., daughter of Washington and Mary Henry, of Fostoria, Ohio, and by her he has had three children: Elmer W., Frank (deceased) and Ada (deceased). Mr. Acker is a F. & A. M., and a member of the G. A. R. He was a member of Fostoria city council in 1866. Politically he is a Democrat.

THOMAS D. ADAMS, merchant, Fostoria, was born in Washington Township, Hancock Co., Ohio, February 27, 1848, son of Jonathan and Margery (Dillon) Adams, the former a native of Jefferson County, Ohio, and the latter of Virginia. Jonathan Adams was a pioneer of Washington Township, Hancock County, first entering and clearing a tract of eighty acres of land, and he afterward purchased the farm he now occupies, most of which ho also improved. He had a family of five children, of whom two survive: Emma (Mrs. W. W. Earnest) and Thomas D. Our subject was reared and educated in his native county and lived on the home farm until 1874. In 1875 he located in Fostoria and embarked in dry goods business in partnership with Alpheus Weaver, which existed up to March, 1885, when the firm dissolved and Mr. Adams entered the boot and shoe trade, having one of the finest stores in northern

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Ohio. where he carries a stock of goods unequaled in the State. Mr. Adams was married, November 9, 1878, to Minnie, daughter of Andrew Bucher, of Fostoria, and by her he has one child--Verda L. Mrs. Adams is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Adams is a stockholder in the First National Bank of Fostoria, and was elected one of its directors in January, 1884. Politically he is a Democrat.

JOHN Q. ALBERT, shoe-maker, Fostoria, was born in Lancaster County, Penn.. March 6, 1827, son of Daniel B. and Ann M. (Free) Albert, natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent, who settled in Perry Township, Wood Co., Ohio, in 1837, where his father, who was a farmer by occupation, entered eighty acres of land in the then unbroken wilderness, which he cleared and improved and where he resided up to 1878, when he moved to Fostoria andhere died the following spring in his eighty-fourth year. The family of Daniel B. Albert consisted of five children: John Q., Mary A. (Mrs. John Addlesparger), Elizabeth (Mrs. Ephraim Hughes), Sophia (Mrs. Philip Kepple) and Henry F., who resides on the old homestead. Our subject came to Fostoria when sixteen years of age, and served an apprenticeship of two years at the shoe-maker's trade, and at the age of nineteen embarked in business for himself, which he has carried on to the present time (thirty-nine years). He was married, in April, 1849, to Catherine, daughter of George and Sarah Histe, of Fostoria, by whom he has nine children living: Florence (Mrs. C. Stockwell), Ida (Mrs. George Boly), Fatama (Mrs. J. Starns), Alice, Stephen D., John, Howard, James and Morris P. Mr. Albert served three years in the late war of the Rebellion, enlisting in Company I, One Hundred and Twenty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry in 1861, and was honorably discharged at the close of the war in 1865. He was in the battles of Winchester, Berryville, Hunter's Raid, also New Market and Piedmont, W. Va., in all twenty-two battles and skirmishes; was taken prisoner at Winchester and sent to Belle Isle, remaining thirty days, when he was paroled and exchanged; was again taken prisoner at Berryville and sent to Salisbury, N. C., where he remained six months and was paroled at the close of the war. Mr. Albert is a F. & A. M. In .politics he is a Democrat.

JOHN ANDES, carriage manufacturer, Fostoria, was born in Bavaria, Germany, August 14, 1836, son of Peter W. and Margaret (Henry) Andes. He was reared in his native land until sixteen years of age, when he came to America and located in Tiffin, Ohio, where he learned the general blacksmith trade and remained four years. He then took a trip through the West, returning to this county in 1860 and locating in Fostoria, where he worked as journeyman for five years and in 1865 he embarked in business for himself, which he has conducted successfully to the present time. He was married, May 6, 1862, to Philibema, daughter of John and Philibema (Game) Rice, of Loudon Township, this county, and by her he has four children: Matilda (Mrs. Willis Howell), Charles, Nettie and John W. Mr. and Mrs. Andes are members of the German Reformed Church. Mr. Andes is one of the leading and public spirited citizens of Fostoria, and has done much to aid the improvement of the city. In 1878 he built the "Andes Block," three stories high, dimensions 66x100, the ground floor containing three large stores with basements, and the upper part four large commodious offices, while in the rear is a large opera house, one of the finest in this section of the State, having a seating capacity for 800 people, with opera folding chairs stage 24x64 feet, and full sets of scenery. Mr. Andes is a member of the I. O. O. F. He has held the office of township trustees seven years in succession: in politics he is a Democrat.

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JOHN W, ARNOLD, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Philadelphia. Penn., March 20, 1818, son of Levi and Hannah (Wright) Arnold, natives of New Jersey. Levi Arnold, a carpenter by trade (an occupation he followed for many years in Philadelphia and New York), moved, in 1831, with his family to Goshen Township, Columbiana (now Mahoning) Co., Ohio, and engaged in farming there until his death. Our subject was reared in Philadelphia, and there received a limited education in the schools of his day. September 1, 1842, he was united in marriage with Hannah S., daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth (Stratton) Dole, of Goshen, Ohio, and by this union there were seven children, of whom five survive: Lewis D., Martha (Mrs. James M. Elwell), Charlotte (Mrs. Volney Doe), Elizabeth (Mrs. Emery Finch) and John L. After his marriage Mr. Arnold engaged in farming in Mahoning County until 1851, when he moved to this county and settled in London Township on the farm he now occupies, about half of which was already cleared and about half he cleared himself, erecting thereon his present buildings. He has served his township as trustee two terms and as justice of the peace twenty-one consecutive years. Politically he has been a Republican since the organization of the party.

ABRAHAM ASH, retired, Fostoria, was born in Bedford County, Penn., June 14, 1824, son of Jacob and Sarah (Kountz) Ash, natives of Maryland and who came to Ohio in 1831., settling in Liberty Township, this county, entering 320 acres of land from the Government, a part of which they cleared and improved and there resided until their death. They were four weeks making the journey with a three-horse team from Bedford County. Their family consisted of six children: John, deceased; Edmund, deceased; Wesley, deceased; Abraham; Harriet, Mrs. Benjamin Lewman, and Jacob, the latter residing on the old homestead. Jacob Ash, Sr., died in 1853 at the age of sixty-three years. He left each of his four sons, then living, eighty acres of land and his daughter money in proportion. Our subject was reared in Liberty Township from seven years of age and received a limited education in the district schools. He was principally engaged in farming up to 1854, at which time he embarked in mercantile trade in Kansas, in which he was interested for test years, when he retired from business. He laid out and had surveyed the present village of Kansas, in the interest of his brother Jacob. Mr. Ash was instrumental in getting a post-office established at Kansas, and was the first postmaster of the place, holding that position for eight years. He served as justice of the peace of Liberty Township three years. During the late war of the Rebellion ho served as captain of Company E, One Hundred and Sixty-fourth Ohio National Guards, four months, and received an honorable discharge. He was twice married, first to Miss Barbara Flack, daughter of Adam and Mary Flack, who settled in Liberty Township in 1826. His second marriage was with Mrs. Caroline Young, widow of Samuel Young and daughter of John Stambaugh, formerly of Hancock County, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Ash are members of the United Brethren Church. In politics he is a Republican.

GODFREY BILES, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, March 24, 1829, son of Frederick and Dora (Heckel) Biles, who, immigrated to America in 1831 and located in Columbiana County. Ohio. His father died in Stark County, Ohio, and his mother in this county. Our subject lived in Stark County until fourteen years of age, when he went to Tiffin, Ohio, where he worked by the day and month for fifteen months. From 184 to 1847 he served an apprenticeship at the carpenter's trade, after which he worked as a journeyman in different sections of the county up to 1860. February 18, 1858, he was married to Mary E., daughter of John and Esther

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(Spangler) Betts, natives of Pennsylvania and pioneers of Jackson Township, Sandusky Co., Ohio, and by this union there were seven children, of whom five survive: John F., George R., Charles W., Frederick A. and Lula G. In 1861 Mr. Biles engaged in farming in Green Creek Township, Sandusky Co:, Ohio, where he remained until 1865, when he moved to Loudon Township, this county, to the farm he now occupies. He cleared a portion of his farm and made many improvements, erecting his present fine brick residence in 1875. He and his wife are members of the United Brethren Church. Politically he is a Republican.

AUGUST E. BLESSING, dealer in furniture, Fostoria, was born in the province of Wurtemberg, Germany, August 17, 1854; son of Michael and Margaret (Frosch) Blessing. He was educated in his native land, and at the age of fourteen, immigrated to America, locating in Cleveland, Ohio, where he served an apprenticeship of three years at cabinet-making, finishing in the establishment of Hardt & Malone. In 1873 he went to Medina, Ohio, where he worked at his trade up to 1880, when he located in Fostoria in the furniture business, and has occupied his present elegant quarters, in the "Foster Block," since March, 1883. He occupies two floors and basement, which are filled with the largest stock and latest designs in furniture to be found in the city. Mr. Blessing married, October 8, 1879, Sarah C., daughter of James H. and Jane (Hervey) Green, of Medina, Ohio, and by her he has one child, Jennie M. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., K. of P., and R. A. Mr. Blessing is one of the live enterprising young business men of the city. Politically he is a Republican.

JOHN A. BRADNER, attorney and justice of the peace, Fostoria, was born at Niagara Falls, N. Y., August 13, 1833, son of William and Laura (Everingham) Bradner, natives of New York, and who settled in Perry Township, Wood Co., Ohio, in 1849. Our subject was reared at Niagara Falls, where he was educated in the common schools and Lewiston Academy. When sixteen years of age he came with his parents to Ohio, and was manager of his father's store at Mill Grove, Wood County, for six years, when he purchased the business, which he carried on for two years. In 1859 he went to Fremont, Ohio, and acted as manager of a warehouse for about four years. In March, 1863, he located in Fostoria where he has since resided, and the same year embarked in the hardware and stove. trade in which he was interested up to 1872, when he was burned out. He has been also largely engaged as a contractor, having unproved most of the principal streets of Fostoria, doing $16,000 worth of work in that line in 1883. He also built nineteen miles of the "Nickel Plate" Railroad; thirty-five miles of the Toledo, Cincinnati & St. Louis Railroad and several miles of the Lake Erie & Western Railroad. He is also extensively interested in the limekiln and quarry business. Mr. Bradner was married, January 8, 1854, to Catharine, daughter of Samuel and Sarah Phillips, of Jerry City, Ohio, by whom he has following children: Catherine (wife of Samuel Lynn), Rosa (wife of Brice M. Stout), Martin, Mary, Frank, Harry and John R. Mr. Bradner is now serving his sixth successive term as justice of the peace of Fostoria, and was once defeated by a small majority for county commissioner. He is a F. & A. M., and a member of the I. O. O. F. In politics he is a Republican.

ALEXANDER BROWN, attorney, Fostoria, was born in Perry County, Ohio, May 27, 1832, son of Matthew and Mary (Queen) Brown, natives of Virginia and pioneers of Perry County, Ohio, and who removed to Plain Township, Wood Co., Ohio, in 1863, there residing until their death; the mother dying in 1865, aged seventy-six, and the father in fall of 1884 in his

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ninety-ninth year. Our subject, who was reared and educated in Perry County, studied law with William Spencer, Esq., of Somerset, Ohio, was admitted to the bar at Perrysburg, Wood County, August 19, 1864, and began to practice his profession the same year. He was elected prosecuting attorney of Wood County, two terms. In 1872 he located in Fostoria, this county, where he has had a successful practice to the present time, and since 18 79 has been associated with Charles L. Guernsey. Mr. Brown was married, in June, 1853, to Mary A., daughter of David W. and Jane (Higgins) Pugh, of Somerset, Perry Co., Ohio, and by this union he has had ten children: Minnie (wife of Charles L. Guernsey), Ida (wife of J. C. Hagrel), Anna (wife of Lyman Fox), John (deceased), Jennie, Mabel, May, Chloe, Jessie and Carl. Mr. and Mrs. Brown axe members of the Presbyterian Church. He has served Fostoria as member of the council one term, and as city solicitor three years and six months, Politically he is a Republican.

WILLIAM T. BROWN, contractor, plasterer and stone mason. Fostoria, was born in Belmont County, Ohio, November 28, 1829; son of William and Octavia (Kendle) Brown natives of Culpeper County. 4a., and who settled in Big Lick Township, Hancock Co., Ohio, in 1834. William Brown. who was a blacksmith by trade, worked at that occupation in Hancock County until his death; he died in 1878, at the age of seventy-seven years. Our subject was reared and educated and learned his trade in Hancock County, and there lived (with the exception of three years when he resided in Allegan, Mich.) till 1867, when he located in Fostoria, this county, where he has since resided. He was the contractor in building the Andes Opera House and the Central Hotel. and has erected many other buildings in Fostoria. He was married. September 4, 1852, to Ruth A., daughter of John and Elizabeth (Albert) Hallowell, of Big Lick Township, Hancock Co.. Ohio, and by her he has five children living: Wealtha J., Irene, Theodosia, J. S. and Orlo E. Octavia K. and Elizabeth A. (twins), eldest daughters of our subject and wife, were born May 15, 1854, and both died of diphtheria; Elizabeth A., died February 3. 1868: Octavia K., died April 20, 1868. Mrs. Brown and daughters are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically, Mr. Brown is a Republican.

BARTHOLOMEW L. CAPLES, retired, Fostoria, was born in Tascarawas County, Ohio, November 21, 1812; son of Robert F. and Charlotte l.. Caples, who settled in Jackson Township, this county, in 1832. They were the parents of eleven children, of whom eight are now living: Bartholomew L., Robert C., Philip D., Charlotte L., Henry L., Luther W., Elizabeth S. and John F. Our subject, who received a liberal education in the schools of his day, when five years of age moved with his parents to Wayne County. Ohio, where he resided till they removed to Seneca County, Ohio. Shortly after his people came to this county Bartholomew L. went to what is now Ashland County, where he engaged as a clerk in the mercantile business, and in 1835 located at Findlay, Ohio, where he embarked in mercantile trade on his own account. Thence he moved to Fremont, Ohio, where he carried on merchandising with his brother, R. C. Caples, with whom he remained until 1847, when they dissolved partnership. He then returned to Jackson Township, this county. In 1847, as brigadier-general of the militia district, with headquarters at Fremont, he raised a company which subsequently did service in the Mexican war. Mr. Caples was married, at Fremont, Ohio, March 4, 1841, to Catherine A., daughter of Isaac and Martha Norton, of Sandusky Comity, Ohio, and by this union had three children: Martha A., Charlotte E. and Harriet A. Mr. Caples has served on the board of school directors for twelve years, was marshal two years, street commissioner two years, justice of the

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peace three years, and as mayor of Fostoria two years. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a Republican. Is a Master Mason, and has served his lodge as secretary for about a quarter of a century.

ROBERT C. CAPLES, physician, Fostoria, was born in New Philadelphia, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio,. July 31, 1815; son of Robert F. and Charlotte L. (Later) Caples, who settled in Seneca County, Ohio, in 1832, locating in the southwest corner of Jackson Township; the former a native of Baltimore County, Md., the latter of Greensburg, Westmoreland Co., Penn. Our subject was reared in Wayne County, Ohio, until seventeen years of age, when he came with his parents to this county, his early education being received in the schools of his day. In 1838 he began the study of medicine at Risdon, in the office of Dr. Marcus Dana, with whom he remained three years. In 1842--43 he attended a course of lectures at Geneva Medical College, of Geneva, N. Y., graduating therefrom in 1843, and in the summer of the same year began the practice of medicine in Risdon (now Fostoria), where he has been in active practice to the present time. He practiced alone up to 1856, when Dr. R. W. Hale became associated with him, forming the partnership that exists at, the present time. Drs. A. M. Blackman. A. L. Longfellow and George L. Hoege have been associated with him at periods between 1860 and 1864, since which time the firm has been Hale & Caples. Dr. Caples has been twice married, first in 1837 to Ann, daughter of Adam and Elizabeth Wilson, of Geneva, N. Y., who bore him two children: Francis (deceased) and Emma, Mrs. Dr. G. L. Hoege (deceased). His present wife was Mary E. Barber. a native of Medina County, Ohio, to whom he was married April 4, 1871. By this union there are two children: Ralph C. and Byron E. Dr. Caples is now the oldest practicing physician residing in n Fostoria. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, with which he has been identified upward of fifty years, and of which he has been steward about the same length of time. He has served in many of the city offices, one term as mayor, several terms as councilman, and has keen a member of the board of education for twenty-three consecutive years, and for fifteen years was its president. He was postmaster of Risdon under the administration of President Van Buren. The Doctor is a member of the Northwestern Medical Society. He is a F. & A. M.; politically a stanch Republican.

PHILIP D. CAPLES, retired, Fostoria, was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, March 5, 1816, son of Robert F. and Charlotte L. Caples, natives of Maryland and Pennsylvania, respectively, and who about 1819 moved to Wayne County, Ohio, and there lived till 1832, when they settled in Jackson Township, this county. Robert F. Caples died in 1834 and Phiiip D. was left with his father's family to provide for. Our subject received but a limited education, and was engaged in farming for several years. He was married, in December, 1839, to Sarah, daughter of Major Case and Mary Brown, and by this union were six children of whom four are now living: Mary A., Lucy E., Frank and Fred. This wife dying September 23, 1877, Mr. Caples married, September 18, 1878, Mrs. Harriet J. Lewis, widow of George Lewis and daughter of David and Mary Ritchart, of Seneca County, Ohio. In 1858 Mr. Caples came to Fostoria and engaged as clerk with Foster & Son, with whom he continued about twelve years, at which time the old firm merged in Foster, Olmsted & Co., Mr. Caples becoming one of the partners; this partnership existing up to 1868. Mr. Caples then embarked in the queensware and grocery business, which he continued up to 1880, when he retired from business. He has been

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a successful business man and has accumulated a fine property. He served a, a member of the town council for six years. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

FRANK CAPLES, book-keeper, Fostoria, was born in Fostoria, this county, October 17, 1854 ; son of Philip D., and Sarah (Brown) Caples. Frank Caples was reared in Fostoria and educated in the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware, Ohio, and at the Eastman Business College, Poughkeepsie, N. Y. In 1873 he engaged as a clerk in the store of Foster & Co., which position he retained for five years. In 1878 Mr. Caples embarked in the grocery trade, with Rawson Crocker as partner, and with him he was associated in business up to 1880, when they sold their stock of merchandise to P. D. Caples. In 1881 Frank Caples entered the dry goods store of Col. L. J. Hissong as book-keeper and clerk, which positions he now occupies. He was united in marriage, May 20, 1875, with Josie, daughter of Benjamin and Eliza (Crum) Leonard, of Fostoria, Ohio, and by her he has one child-Harry L. Mr. Caples is a F. & A. M., a member of the K. of P. and K. of H. Politically he is a Republican.

JAMES CHRISTOPHORY, pastor of St. Patrick's Church, P. O. Bascom, was born in Luxemburg, Germany, in 1848, son of Michael and Mary (Bonefas) Christophory. He was reared and educated in Luxemburg, and studied theology and philosophy at Cleveland, Ohio, where he was ordained to the priesthood. His first charge was St. Michael's Church, at North Ridge, Defiance Co., Ohio, where he remained from 1878 to 1881, when he was transferred to his present charge of St. Patrick's Church, in Loudon Township, which was established in 1861.

AMBROSE CORY, farmer, Fostoria, was born in Susquehanna County, Penn., May 29, 1825; son of Samuel P. and Serviah (Foster) Cory, former of whom died in 1846, and the latter in 1882. In 1832 our subject came to Perry Township, Wood Co., Ohio, with his parents, was reared on a farm and received a common school education. February 14, 1854, he was united in marriage with Amanda, daughter of Thomas and Catherine. Kelly, of Washington Township, Hancock County, by whom he has three children: Howard, Katie S. and Thomas H. After his marriage Mr. Cory continued to live in Perry Township till the fall of 1861, when he moved to Fostoria, where he now resides. He is owner of a fine farm of eighty acres in Wood County, Ohio, as well as eighteen acres of land in Fostoria on which he resides, and which is one of the best improved places in the city. He is a worthy citizen, universally respected. His maternal grandfather, Asa Foster, was a soldier in the Revolutionary. war.

DANIEL CRAMER, retired farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in York County, Penn., August 22, 1818; son of John and Catherine (Slote) Cramer, who settled in Loudon Township, this county, in 1838, and purchased 160 acres of land, most of which they cleared and improved and where; they lived; here the father died, in 1855, in his sixty-fifth year: and the mother in 1854, in her sixty-second year. The family of John and Catherine Cramer. consisted of ten children: Daniel, Henry, John, Mary (deceased), Manuel, Adam, William, Sophia (Mrs. Peter Wickerham), Sarah (Mrs. Augustus Elliott ) and Levi (deceased). Our subject was reared in his native county, and there received a limited common school education. He came with his parents to this county in 1838, and was actively engaged in farming up to 1867, when he retired, and now resides with his brother William on the old homestead. He is the only member of the family who has adhered to the German Lutheran Church, of

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which his parents were life-long members. Politically he has ever been a Democrat.

ADAM CRAMER, sexton of the Methodist Episcopal Church, Fostoria, was born in York County, Penn., April 30, 1827, son of John and Catherine (Slote) Cramer, who settled in Loudon Township, this county, in 1838. Our subject was reared in Loudon Township from eleven years of age, and received a limited education in the schools of his times. On reaching maturity, he began to work as a journeyman carpenter, which trade he followed up to the breaking out of the late war of the Rebellion. In July, 1861, he enlisted in Company B, Fifty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was mustered into the service in August following. He veteranized in same company and regiment January 1, 1864; was in the battles of Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Missionary Ridge, siege of Atlanta, siege of Savannah, and in many other engagements, and lost a leg at Averysboro, N. C., March 16, 1865, and received an honorable discharge at Columbus, Ohio, August 13, 1865. In August, 1870, he was appointed postmaster of Fostoria, which position he held ten years. Since the spring of 1883 he has been sexton of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Fostoria. October 23, 1853, Mr. Cramer was married to Christiana Klinger, of Clyde. and by her he has had five children, of whom three survive: Ida (Mrs. H. J. Cochran), Jasper and George M. Mr. and Mrs. Cramer are active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a member of the G. A. R. Politically he is a Republican.

ROSWELL CROCKER, retired, Fostoria, was born in Washington County, N. Y., May 25, 1806, son of John and Lucy (Bartlett) Crocker, who came to this county in 1823, settling in Seneca Township, where they cleared and improved a farm of 180 acres, on which the another died. Our subject's father afterward came to Fostoria, where he resided until his death. John and Lucy Crocker had two children: Laura, wife of C. W. Foster, and Roswell. The subject of our sketch settled in what is now Fostoria in 1832; built a saw-mill, the first in the place and in the western part of the county. After conducting this mill for seven years he went to Big Spring Township, this county, where he remained for two years, and built a saw-mill and a grist-mill. He then returned here, bringing his mill machinery with him, and conducted a gristmill for several years, He has been largely interested in real estate, has platted several additions to the town of Fostoria. and is now residing in what is said to be the first frame house built in Fostoria. Mr. Crocker was married, in the fall of 1836, to Sarah A., daughter of William and Anna (Gales) Cooper, of Pickaway County, Ohio, by whom he had two children: Allen (deceased), and Rawson, a merchant of Fostoria. Mr. Crocker is a representative and leading citizen of Fostoria, and has always contributed liberally of his means toward the growth and development of the place. Politically he is a Republican.

RAWSON CROCKER, merchant, Fostoria, was born in Fostoria, this county, August 30, 1841, son of Roswell and Sarah A. (Cooper) Crocker. He was reared in Fostoria, where he received his early education. In 1861 he attended the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware, Ohio. In 1865 he attended the Eastman Business College, at Poughkeepsie, N. Y., graduating therefrom the same year. In :1857 he entered the store of Foster, Olmsted & Co., where (with the exception of the time he was at school) he served in the capacity of clerk up to 1867, when he was admitted as a partner of the firm, which partnership existed for six years. Mr. Crocker then served them as bookkeeper for two years, and in 1875 embarked in the real estate business, in

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which he engaged till August 27, 1877, when with Frank Caples he purchased the grocery and queensware stock of P. D. Caples, which enterprise existed under the firm name of Crocker & Caples till May 3, 1879, when the stock was sold to P. D. Caples, who conducted the business up to 1880, in which year he sold the building and stock of merchandise to our subject, who has contin. nod the concern successfully to the present time. Mr. Crocker was married, April 2, 1867, to Lucy E., daughter of Philip D. and Sarah (Brown) Caples, of Fostoria. Bythis union there were seven children: John R., Charles I'.. Harry (deceased), Ross E., Emma (deceased), Nellie (deceased) and Fred. Mr. Crocker is a leading merchant of Fostoria. He is a F. & A. M., and a member of the I. O. O. F. He has served one term as a member of the council, In politics he is a Republican.

EDWARD J. CUNNINGHAM, manufacturer, Fostoria, was born in Berkeley County, Va., November 4, 1831, son of Levi and Alcinda Cunningham. At the age of fifteen he entered a grist-mill to serve an apprenticeship at the Miller's trade, remaining until twenty-one years of age. In 1852 he came to Tiffin, Ohio, where he worked at his trade for his brother, J. '"'. Cunningham, until July, 1854, when he went to Cambridge, Ind., and followed his trade there one year. He then returned to Tiffin, Ohio, and with his brother, J. W., built what is now known as the Shoemaker Grist-mill, which they conducted three years. In 1859 our subject, for the benefit of his health, took a three months' trip through the South and West. On his return to Tifn he and hi. brother leased the Keller Mills, which they conducted but a short time when they were burned out, our subject losing nearly all he had. In 1860 he was identified with his brother in building the Clifton Mill, at Tiffin, which they operated three years, when Edward J. sold out to his brother, came to Fostoria, and built the Union Mill (now known as the Livingston Roller-mill) which he carried on for several years, and then sold to William Grapes. In 186(1, with the Hon. Charles Foster, Mr. Cunningham repurchased the mill, which they conducted for four years. In 1871 Mr. Cunningham became, and is still, identified with the Fostoria Stave and Barrel Works. In 1874, with Mr. Foster as a partner, he purchased the Fostoria Spoke Works, which they operated until March 5, 1882, when they were burned out. They immediately rebuilt their factory, which is now operated under the name of the Fostoria Spoke and Bending Works. Mr. Cunningham was married, April 16, 1860, to Ann E.. daughter of Levi and Elizabeth Keller, of this county, by whom he has live children: Clara, Minnie, Cora, Ralph and Earl. Our subject is a Republican in politics; has served two years as a member of the Fostoria council.

JOEL P. DEWOLFE, publisher Fostoria Review, Fostoria, was born in Butler County, Penn., July 8, 1853; son of Erasmus and Catharine (Christley) DeWolfe. When thirteen years of age he entered the office of the Ohio State Journal, at Columbus, Ohio, with which he was connected up to 1876. when he located in Fostoria, this county, and with O. J. DeWolfe, Esq., purchased the Fostoria Review, which was established in 1861, and this partnership existed up to January, 1883, when our subject became sole proprietor, and he has conducted it with marked success up to the present time. Mr. DeWolfe was married, in 1872, to Clara, daughter of William and Marietta (Bowman) Mungen, of Findlay, Ohio, by whom he had two children: William and Kittie. Mr. DeWolfe is a stanch supporter of the principles of the Republican part`. He is a F. & A. M. and a member of the I. O. O. F.

THOMAS DILLON, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born near Wheeling, Va., July 7, 1818; son of Thomas and Polly (Adams) Dillon, who came to

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this county in 1835 and settled in Loudon Township on the farm (now owned lay George Dillon), on which they lived and died. Their children were nine in number. Our subject, who was seventeen years of age when he came to Ohio. married, December 6, 1842, Rhoda, daughter of John and Violetta (Clark) Adams. natives of Ohio and pioneers of Loudon Township, this county, and by this union there were ten children: George W.; Mary, deceased; Josephine, Mrs. William Beach; Ellen; Violetta, Mrs. Oscar Wade; John Thomas, deceased; Alpheus; Tempy, and Earl E. After his marriage Mr. Dillon lived on a rented farm for three years. He then purchased the farm he now occupies, most of which he has cleared, and on which he has made all the improvements in building, etc. His farm comprises 198 acres of land, over 100 of which are under a high state of cultivation. Mr. Dillon is a prominent farmer and citizen of Loudon. Politically he is a stanch Democrat.

GEORGE DILLON, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born near Wheeling, Va., June 6, 1820; son of Thomas and Mary (Adams) Dillon, who settled in London Township, this county, in 1835, purchasing 200 acres of land, which is now owned and occupied by our subject. They had a family of nine children: Margery, widow of Jonathan Adams (deceased); Jacob (deceased); John (deceased; Martha, wife of Martin Adams; Jane, wife of James Carrel; Thomas; George; Mary, wife of Charles Runnels; and Robert (deceased). Thomas Dillon (the father) died in 1836. The old homestead came into the possession of our subject in 1860. He has since added to this property until now his farm comprises 325 acres, of which 100 are improved, well drained and under a high state of cultivation. Mr. Dillon has been twice married, his first wife, Margery, was a daughter of Thomas and Nancy Adams, of Loudon Township, and by her he had six children: Thomas; George W.; Jane, wife of Alonzo -Marietta: Annetta, wife of George W Woleder; Eli; Robert (deceased). His present wife, Melinda, daughter of Abraham and Sophia Shoup, of Hancock County, has borne to him five children: Edwin A., Alpheus, Agnes, Rosa and Cora. Mr. Dillon, one of the leading and pushing farmers of the township, has held the office of trustee two terms, and has served in minor offices. Politically he is a Democrat.

A. E. EBERSOLE, veterinary surgeon, Fostoria, was born in Loudon Township, this county, June 1.3, 1843; son of Peter and Elizabeth (Fisher) Ebersole. His paternal grandfather, Peter Ebersole, a native of Lancaster County, Penn., settled in Loudon Township, this county, in 1831, clearing and improving a farm on which he lived until death; he died in 1857, at the age of seventy-one years. Four of his children survive him: John P., Elizabeth (.Mrs. William Green), Peter and Manassa. Peter, the father of our subject, a farmer and stock-dealer by occupation, resided in Loudon Township, this county, from 1831 to 1880, when he moved to Sedalia Mo., where he now resides. His children were eight in number: Isaiah, Milton (killed at Kenesaw Mountain in 1864), Austin, Alvin E., Amanda (Mrs. Marion D. Hammond), Neri, John (deceased) and Marilla (deceased). Our subject was reared in London Township, this county, and educated in its common schools and at Republic Academy. In 1865 he entered the drug store of Hershiser & Myers, in Fostoria, as clerk, in which capacity he served until 1868, when he embarked in the business for himself at Bowling Green, Ohio, where he remained up to 1874. He then opened the first stone quarry in Fostoria, continning in the stone business two years, when he engaged in milling which he followed up to 1880. He then took a course of instruction at the Ontario Veterinary College at Toronto, Canada, and in 1881 began the practice of his

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profession in Fostoria, where he has since done a successful business. Mr. Ebersole was married, October 26, 1869, to Clara J., daughter of Morris P. and Jane M. (Searles) Skinner, of Fostoria. By this union there are four children: Frank, Mary, Myra and Earl. Mr. and Mrs. Ebersole are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is assistant chief of the Fostoria Fire Department and president of the Hook and Ladder Company. In politics he is a Democrat.

JOHN P. EBERSOLE, boot and shoe merchant, Fostoria, was born in Hancock County, Ohio, March 9, 1860, son of Neri and Sisson (Hemming) Ebersole. His paternal grandfather, John P. Ebersole, a native of Pennsylvania, settled in Big Lick Township in 1831, and his paternal great-grandfather, Peter Ebersole, settled here at the same time. His maternal grandfather, George W. Hemming, a native of Pennsylvania, was among the pioneers of Loudon Township. Our subject was reared in Hancock County, Ohio, and was educated in the common and select schools. He moved with his parents to Fostoria in 1876, and in 1878 entered the store of Foster, Snyder Co., serving as clerk up to the winter of 1883. February 15, 1883 he embarked in the boot and shoe business. He carries a large stock of the finest goods, and by strict attention to the wants of his patrons has built up an extensive trade. He is one of the prominent and enterprising young business men of the city. Politically he is a Republican.

J. JACOB EISSLER, carriage manufacturer, Fostoria, was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, October 3, 1838, son of John and Rosina (Gauger) Eissler. He was reared and educated in his native land, and there served an apprenticeship of four years with his father at the general blacksmithing trade. In 1865 he immigrated to America, and located in St. Louis, Mo., where he worked at his trade one year. In 1866 he settled in Fostoria, Ohio, and embarked in business in company with John G. Rothacker. This partnership existed twelve years, and then Mr. Eissler purchased Mr. Rothacher's interest in the business, which he has since successfully conducted alone. Our subject was married, September 19, 1867, to Caroline L., daughter of Charles and Eliza (Griehban) Bobsien, of Fostoria, Ohio, and by her he has the following named children: Charles H., Minnie F., Louise M., Mary R., Frederick G., Frank J. and John L. Mr. and Mrs. Eissler are members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. He is a representative citizen of Fostoria. Politically he is a Democrat.

ANDREW EMERINE, banker, Fostoria, was born near Wurtemburg. Germany, December 3, 1830, son of George and Laura (Hine) Emerine, who immigrated to America in 1835, and settled in Liberty Township, this county. Here his father cleared and improved a farm, on which he resided fifteen years; then went to Sandusky, Ohio, where he cleared another farm, and in 1861 located in Washington Township, Hancock Co., Ohio, where he lived until his death; he died at the age of ninety-three years. George Emerine was twice married. By his first wife there were three children: Michael, Joseph an (l Andrew; and by his second union were seven children, six of whom are now living: George, John, Nicholas, Catherine, Lawrence and Thony. Our subject was reared in Seneca County, Ohio, where he served an apprenticeship at the saddler's trade. He embarked in the saddle and harness business for himself in Fostoria in 1849, which he followed up to 1877, after which he engaged in farming and brokerage till 1883, when he was elected president of the First National Bank of Fostoria, which position he now holds. He has been twice married; first, October 3, 1850, to Sarah, daughter of Samuel

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Bare, of Fostoria, by whom he had two children: Alonzo, cashier of the First National Bank; and Amanda, wife of Levi Wooster. Mr. Emerine was married, on second occasion, November 25, 1863, to Amy, daughter of Frank Noble, of Ontario, by whom he has five children: Sarah, Lucy, Cora, Andrew and Amy. Mr. and Mrs. Emerine are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically he is a Democrat.

FRANK ENGSTROM, contractor, Fostoria, was born in Sweden August 24, 1848, son of John and Helena (Freburg) Engstrom. He was reared and educated in his native land, and came to America in 1870. In 1871 he located in Fostoria and engaged as a contractor, building and grading twenty miles of the Mansfield, Coldwater & Lake Michigan Railroad. He then built fourteen miles of the Baltimore & Ohio line in company with Samuel Good, after which he took a contract for building a portion of the "Nickel Plate" Road in company with J. A. Brander, with whom he was also associated in grading and improving the streets of Fostoria. In 1882 he purchased the property known as the Fostoria House, which he is rebuilding and improving for the purpose of opening a first-class hotel, one promising to be a valuable addition to the business interests of Fostoria. Mr. Engstrom was married, May 4, 1876, to Mary, daughter of Dr. G. A. and Mary (Angeny) Hudson, of Bucyrus, Ohio, by whom he has one child, Earl. Mr. and Mrs. Engstrom are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is an enterprising and worthy citizen of Fostoria, and is investing his means toward the improvement and development of the place. Politically he is a Republican.

PHILIP FAULHABER (deceased) was born in Canton, Ohio, July 5, 1830, son of Louis and Louisa (Munsinger) Faulhaber, natives of Germany, and who came to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1838. Louis Faulhaber died in 1839, and Philip moved with his mother to Tifn, Ohio, and was there reared and educated. About 1851 he located in Fostoria and embarked in- the clothing business. October 21, 1855, he was united in marriage with Sydna J., daughter of Thomas and Catherine (Loroh) Kelley, pioneers of Washington Township, Hancock Co., ,Ohio, and later of Fostoria. The issue of this union was three children: Alice (deceased), John L. and Kittie M. At the breaking out of the late war of the Rebellion in 1861, Mr. Faulhaber sold his business, and in October of that year he raised Company B, Fifty-seventh Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with which he went out as captain, and was killed at Chickasaw Bayou, near Vicksburg, Miss., December 28, 1862. Mr. Faulhaber was a member of the German Reformed Church, a worthy citizen, esteemed by all who knew him. He was a member of the I. O. O. F. Politically he was a Democrat.

ELI FEBLES, clergyman and teacher, Fostoria, was born in Pennsylvania September 9, 1831, son of Frederick and Christiana (Kempher) Febles, who settled in Perry Township, Wood Co., Ohio, in 1839, where they resided six years and then removed to Jackson Township, this county, where they remained until their death, the mother dying in 1863 and the father in 1876. They endured many of the hardships and trials of pioneer life, and had a family of twelve children, seven of whom survive: Eli, George, Sophia, Frances, Ann, Sarah and Louisa. Frederick Febles had served as township trustee of Jackson Township for several terms, and was respected by all who knew him. Eli Febles was reared on a farm, received a good English education, and was for a time a student of Heidelberg College and of the Delaware University. He was a teacher in the common schools of Seneca County for many years, and taught one term in Texas, and for seven or eight years in Kansas. In 1856

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Mr. Febles was licensed to preach by Presiding Elder Wesley J. Wells, of the Findlay District Central Ohio Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and was ordained a deacon by Bishop Morris at the conference held at Findlay, Ohio, in 1869. He has served as clerk and trustee of Jackson Township, this county, and in 1860 was one of the land appraisers. Mr. Febles was married, December 30, 1862, to Sarah J., daughter of Peter Singer, of Near Lockport, N. Y. The issue of this union was two children: Libbie E., born July 2, 1864, and Cora B., born October 17, 1866. Mr. Febles removed to Garnett, Kas., in 1872, where he resided until 1883, when he returned to his old home in Ohio, and now resides in Fostoria.

BURTIS W. FINCH, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Scipio Township, this county, March 16, 1846, son of Bellana and Frances (Bolte) Finch, the former a native of New York, and the latter of Germany. His paternal grandfather, James Finch, a native of New York, settled in Scipio Township in 1834, and afterward removed to Hancock County, where he died; his family consisted of six children: Albert (deceased), Bellana (deceased), Jonathan, Sarah A., Arad and Jason (deceased). The maternal grandfather of our subject was Harman Bolte, a native of Germany, and a pioneer of Thompson Township, this county. Bellana Finch, father of our subject, was nineteen years of age when he came to this county, and June 9, 1844, he married Frances Bolte, by whom he had three children: Bernard T. (deceased), Burtis W. and Emory T. Bellana Finch lived until 1858 in Scipio Township, thence removed to Washington Township, Hancock County, where he resided until his death; he died August 31, 1873, in his fifty-ninth year. His widow died May 27, 1879, at the age of fifty-four. The subject of this sketch received a limited education in the schools of Republic and Washington Township. March 15, 1870, he married Mary C., daughter of Jacob and Catherine (Dippelhofer) Coleman, and by this union there are three children: Annie C., Nettie M. and Mollie C. After his marriage Mr. Finch engaged in farming in Hancock County. In 1873 he located eighty acres in Washington Township (a part of the old homestead left him by his father), where he resided until the spring of 1880. He then moved to Loudon Township, this county, on the farm he now owns and occupies, comprising 120 acres of land, 100 of which are under a high state of cultivation. Since coming into possession of this property Mr. Finch has made many improvements in his buildings, and has now one of the finest farms in the township. During his residence in Washington Township he served two terms as trustee. Politically he is a stanch Democrat.

GEORGE FLECHTNER, butcher, Fostoria, was born in Bavaria, Germany, August 1, 1856, son of John P. and Hannah (Knopf) Flechtner, who came to America in 1873, and located in Fostoria, Ohio. Their children were five in number: August, George, Jacob, Pauline and Emma (Mrs. Fred Miller). Our subject was reared and educated in Germany, where he learned the trade he now follows. He came to America in 1872, and located in Fostoria, this county; where he worked in the market of George Hoyar and others for two and one-half years. In 1875 he embarked in business for himself, and has carried on same successfully to the present time. His brother Jacob has been associated with him since August 1, 1879. The subject of this sketch was united in marriage, November 28, 1879, with Margaret, daughter of John and Rosina (Eissler) Reber, of Fostoria. The issue of this union is two children: Edward and Frederick. Mr. and Mrs. Flechtner are members of the German Lutheran Church. Politically he is a stanch Democrat.

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CHARLES W. FOSTER, deceased, was born in North Braintree, Worcester Co., Mass., November 21, 1800, and at the age of eighteen years removed with his parents, William and Elizabeth (Nichols) Foster, to Monroe County, N. Y. In 1826 our subject came to Seneca County, Ohio, where he remained a short time: June 7, 1827, he married Laura, daughter of John and Lucy (Bartlett) Crocker, who settled in Seneca Township, this county, in 1823. After his marriage Mr. Foster was engaged in business in Seneca Township for two years. He then removed to Hopewell Township, where he had 160 acres of land, which he sold in a few years, and, with the proceeds, in 1832, he and his father-in-law (who had more means) embarked in mercantile business in a cabin where the "Foster Block" now stands (then known as Rome), under the firm name of Crocker & Foster. This partnership existed for ten years, when Mr. Foster became sole proprietor, and continued alone up to 1848, when his son Charles became associated with him, under the firm name of Charles W. Foster & Son, and in 1856 Mr. Olmsted was admitted, and the style changed to the present one of Foster, Olmsted & Co. When the firm of Crocker & Foster started in business, their combined capital did not exceed $2,000, but at the time of Mr. Foster's death the business of the house in their various lines of trade exceeded $1,000,000 annually. Mr. Foster had six children, of whom three grew to maturity: Charles, John W. (deceased) and Emily (deceased). Mr. Foster was a man of character, and his method of doing business won him thousands of friends. The house of Foster & Co. contributed largely to every enterprise that tended to build up the town and county. Mr. Foster served his township as justice of the peace for several years. He was postmaster under the administration of President Polk. In politics he was a stanch Republican. He died April 26, 1883, in his eighty-third year.

EX-GOV. CHARLES FOSTER, Fostoria, son of Charles W. and Laura (Crocker) Foster, was born at his grandfather's house, on the old Crocker place, in Seneca Township, this county, April 12, 1828. After a course of educational training at the common schools and the academy at Norwalk, Ohio, he early in life engaged in mercantile pursuits, becoming associated with his father in business at Fostoria, in 1848. As a member of the firm of Foster & Co., who made banking a special department of their business, he became prominently identified with the financial interests of Fostoria and surrounding country; and the banking house of Foster & Co. has since enjoyed a widespread and enviable reputation. Mr. Foster never held any public office until he was elected in 1870 a representative from Ohio in the Forty-second Congress, receiving 13,274 votes, against 12,498 votes for Edward F. Dickinson, Democrat; was re-elected to the Forty-third Congress in 1872, receiving 14,997 votes, against 14,271 votes for R. R. Sloane, Liberal Republican; was re-elected in 1874 to the Forty-fourth Congress, receiving 13,778 votes, against 13,619 votes for George E. Seney, Democrat, and 289 votes for Mead, Temperance candidate; and was re-elected in 1876 to the Forty-fifth Congress, receiving 17,324 votes, against 17,053 votes for Hudson,. Democrat. He was again nominated in 1878, but, the district having been changed and made so overwhelmingly Democratic, he sustained a defeat. In 1879 Mr. Foster was nominated by the Republicans and elected governor of the State, being re-elected in 1881. He served both terms with such marked ability and discretion as to win the esteem of all political parties. In 1854 the subject of our sketch was married to Annia, daughter of Judge Olmstead, of Fremont, Ohio, and to this union were born two daughters: Jessie and Annie.

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ANTHONY FOX, deceased, late of the firm of Fox & Co., coal and wood dealers, Fostoria, was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, October 19. 1820, son of Tobias and Mary (Henry) Fox, pioneers of Columbiana County, and later of Richland County. Ohio. Our subject was reared in Columbiana and Beaver Counties, Penn., until twelve years of age, when he removed, with his parents, to Richland County, Ohio. His educational advantages were limited. comprising but three months' attendance at the schools of his day. When twenty-four years of age he settled in Washington Township, Hancock Co., Ohio, on eighty acres of land, which he cleared and improved, afterward adding 160 acres, thereby enlarging his farm to 240 acres. Here he resided until 1880, when he removed to Fostoria, and embarked in his late business. Mr. Fox was married, in March, 1850, to Elizabeth J., daughter of Paul and Catharine (Ickis) Shreffler, of Ashland County, Ohio, by whom he had seven children, five now living: Eveline (wife of Alonzo Emerine), Ida, Alvin E., Elizabeth A. and Mary E. Mr. Fox was a member of the German Reformed Church. During his residence in Washington Township, Hancock County, Mr. Fox served as justice of the peace twenty-seven years in succession. In politics he was always a stanch Democrat. He died August 29, 1885, aged fifty-eight years, ten months and ten days. His widow is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

JAMES B. FOX, marshal, Fostoria, was born in Eden Township, this county, January 27, 1840; son of Charles C. and Caroline B. (Boyd) Fox, the former a native of New York and the latter of Pennsylvania. Charles C. Fox was 'a farmer by occupation, and a pioneer of Eden Township. He afterward resided in Bloom and Scipio Townships, this county, and, in 1865, removed to Wyandot County, where he resided until his death; he died in 1880, at the age of seventy-eight years. His children were Almira (Mrs. Charles Gould), Jane (Mrs. Warren Green), Mary (Mrs. R. M. Reynolds), Henrietta (Mrs. William Blair), James D. and Thomas. Our subject was reared and educated in Republic, this county. He was in the late war of the Rebellion, enlisting August 11, 1862, in Company H, One Hundred and First Ohio Volunteer Infantry, participating in the battles of Perryville and Stone River; was wounded in the leg January 1, 1863, and was in hospital one year thereafter. He was next transferred to the Veteran Reserve Corps, and was honorably discharged at Trenton, N. J., July 6, 1865. He then located in Fostoria. this county, and engaged as salesman for the Fostoria Foundry, a position he held eight. years. In 1874 he was elected marshal, holding the office four years; was again elected in 1884, being the present incumbent. December 23, 1872, he married Osee, daughter of Clatk and Elizabeth (Leonard) Bradford, of Loudon Township, this county, and by her he has two children: Clark and James B. Mr. Fox is a F. & A. M., and a member of the G. A. R. Politically he is a Republican.

ABRAHAM FRUTH, clothier, Fostoria, was born in Bavaria, Germany. November 8, 1848; son of Jacob and Civilla (Shardon) Fruth, who came to America in 1854, and in 1856 settled in London Township, this county, where Jacob Fruth cleared a farm of 124 acres, on which he resided until his death; he died, in 1872, in his sixty-second year. Their children, five in number, were Civilla, wife of Conrad Herbert; Susannah, wife of David Peter; Abraham; John and Augustus, all born in Germany, except Augustus. Our subject was reared in Loudon Township, this county, from eight years of age., was educated in the common schools, and remained on the old homestead until twenty-three years of age. He was married, August 22, 1871, to Charlotte, daughter of Abraham and Mary (Vesper) Peter, of Fostoria. After his marriage

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he purchased eighty acres of land of his father, and engaged in farming till 1876, when he came to Fostoria. Here he served as clerk in a grocery store for four years. In the fall of 1880, in company with Abraham Peter, he embarked in the business in which he is now engaged; this firm existed up to February, 1885, when Mr. Fruth purchased Mr. Peter's interest, and is now conducting the business alone, carrying a full line of clothing, hats, caps and gents' furnishing goods, and has a large and growing trade. Mr. and Mrs. Fruth are members of the United Lutheran Church. He is a F. & A. M.; politically he is a Democrat.

FREDERICK FRUTH, liquor dealer, Fostoria, was born in Bavaria, Germany, in 1824; son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Peter) Fruth, who came to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1833, and settled in Loudon Township, where they cleared and improved a farm of 160 acres, on which they lived and died. They reared a family of six children: Margaret (Mrs. E. Vischer), Jacob, Elizabeth (Mrs. A. Reinbold), Frederick, Abraham and Matthias. Our subject was reared and educated in Loudon Township, this county, from nine years of age. He followed farming up to 1852, in which year he went to California, where he engaged in mining for a time. He then embarked in business for himself, as a manufacturer of and dealer in wines, in El Dorado County, Cal., where he resided till 1874, when he returned to Fostoria, Ohio, and established his present business. Mr. Fruth married, January 14, 1879, Martha, daughter of Philip Heck, by whom he has three children: William F., George W. and Nellie J. Mr. Fruth is one of the substantial citizens of Fostoria. In politics he is a Democrat.

FREDERICK M. FRUTH, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Loudon Township, this county, July 17, 1848; son of Jacob and Sarah (Stevens) Fruth, the former a native of Germany, the latter of Pennsylvania. His paternal grandfather, Jacob Fruth, a native of Germahy, and his maternal grandfather, Benjamin Stevens, a native of Washington County, Penn., both settled in Loudon Township, this county, in 1832. Benjamin Stevens, a prominent man in the township, was one of the first trustees elected, and held the office of justice of the peace, and many other official positions. Jacob Fruth, father of our subject, was a resident of Loudon Township from 1832 until his death; he died December 15, 1861, at the age of forty-six. He, Jacob Fruth, had a family of six children: Frederick M., Herchel, Mary (Mrs. David Price), David, Albert and Elmer. Our subject, who has always resided in Loudon Township, was educated in the common schools. December 12, 1872, he married Angeline, daughter of Nathan and Angeline (McMann) Hatfield, of Cincinnati, Ohio, and by her he has one child-Gracie. Mr. Fruth now owns and occupies the old homestead purchased by his father in 1852. He is a pushing and enterprising young farmer. In politics he is a Republican.

JOHN GOOD, farmer, P. O. Bascom, was born in Richland County, Ohio, October 22, 1833; son of John and Margaret (Lambright) Good (former a native of Ohio, the latter of Maryland) who came to this county in 1834, and settled in Loudon Township on the farm now owned by Samuel Good, and there our subject's father died, in 1872, at the age of sixty-five years; his widow survives him at the age of seventy-two. Their family consisted of eleven children: Isaac (deceased), Catherine (Mrs. Joshua Dewey), John, Michael, an infant daughter (deceased), Solomon, Noah, Eli, Samuel, Andrew, Peggy A. (Mrs. Peter Pauker). Our subject, who was reared on the old homestead, when twenty-three years of age purchased eighty acres of the farm he now occupies. November 14, 1857, he married Ellen, daughter of Henry and Margaret (Sprout) Johnson, pioneers of Jackson Township, this county, and

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by her he has four children: Henry, Eli, Melissa A. (Mrs. Charles Kritzler) and Alice E. Mr. Good is the owner of a fine farm of 180 acres, 160 of which are improved (140 cleared by himself). He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically he is a Republican.

MARTIN V. GREEN, door, sash and blind manufacturer, Fostoria, was born in Scipio Township, this county, February 21, 1834, son of John C. and Abigail (Seely) Green, natives of New York State, and who were among the pioneers of this county. Their children were six in number, four of whom are now living: Warren, Thomas S., John G. and Martin V. Our subject was reared on a farm, and educated in the schools of his day. He was married, July 5, 1857, to Margaret E., daughter of George and Elizabeth (Small) Swigart, natives of Pennsylvania, who settled in Scipio Township, this county, in 1844. In November, 1861, Mr. Green settled in Fostoria, where he has since resided. In 1869 he embarked in his present business with Thomas J. Livers, who afterward sold his interest to John A. Bunnell, who in turn sold out to Lewis Gearhert and Thomas S. Green. In 1873 John F. Heilman, Mr. Green's brother-in-law, became associated with him under the firm name of Green & Heilman, which partnership has existed to the present time. They are manufacturers of doors, sash and blinds, moldings, plain and Gothic window frames, etc. Their factory and office are located on South Street. Mr. Green is one of the live and enterprising business men of Fostoria. He has served one term as a member of the town council. Politically he is it Democrat.

JOHN G. GREEN, stock-dealer, Fostoria, was born in Scipio Township, this county, April 27, 1837, son of John C. and Abigail J. (Seely) Green, who were among the pioneers of Scipio Township, where they lived and died. Our subject remained at home with his parents until nineteen years of age. He was educated at Republic Academy, taking a four years' course of instructions. In the fall of 1852 he came to Fostoria, and engaged in teaming, which he followed several years. During the late war of the Rebellion he enlisted in September, 1861, in Company B, Fifty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, participating in the battles of Gettysburg, Chancellorsville, Shiloh and in many other engagements, and was honorably discharged in the fall of 1863. He immediately veteranized, and re-enlisted in same company and regiment; was transferred from Virginia to the Western army under Gen. Hooker, and was in the engagements at Bridgeport, Mission Ridge, Buzzard's Roost and Big Shanty, whore the regiment was reduced to fifty-five men. He was in the Atlanta campaign under Sherman, and was honorably discharged at close of the war in July, 1865. He then returned to Fostoria, and in 1866 engaged in the stock business, which he has followed ever since. He was married, November 25, 1861, to Ellen M., daughter of George H. Sheldon, a pioneer of Scipio Township, and a clergyman of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. and Mrs. Green have five children: Frank E., Nellie, Ollie, Josie and Francis. Mr. Green is a public spirited citizen. In politics he is a Republican.

CHARLES A. GRIBBLE, photographer, Fostoria, was born in Stark County, Ohio, April 6, 1861, son of Henry Gribble, a native of Germany, a shoe-maker by trade, and whose parents were among the pioneers of Tuscarawas County, Ohio. Our subject was reared and educated in Massillon, Ohio. In 1878 he entered the photograph gallery of F. B. Zay, of Findlay, Ohio, where he served an apprenticeship of two and a half years. He afterward was employed in the galleries of George Donaldson and O. P. Frees, of Tiffin, and June 1, 1884, came to Fostoria and embarked in business for himself, and has had a successful trade. Though Mr. Gribble has had but seven years'

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experience in his business, he is a photographer and artist not only in name but in education. and thoroughly understands the rules of art and chiaro-oscuro and the application of art principles in lighting and posing his subjects, wherein he the true merits of a photographic portrait. Mr. Gribble is an active member of the K. of P. Politically he is a Republican.

JOSEPH GWYNN, superintendent of the Fostoria Gas Light Company, was born in Rahway, N. J., September 30, 1854, son of John and Jane (Ferris) Gwynn natives of London, England, .and who came to Seneca County, Ohio. in 1862, locating at Tiffin, where they resided until their death. John Gwynn, an attorney by profession, reared a family of nine children. Our subject was reared in Tiffin, from eight years of age, and educated in the high schools and commercial college; in the year 1878 he located in Fostoria and took charge of the Fostoria Gas Works for A. L. McKaig & Co., of Pittsburgh, Penn., acting as superintendent of same until June 1, 1881, at which time he made an engagement with the Ohio Central Railroad to take charge of the water works of their road, in which capacity he acted as superintendent until January 1, 1884, at which date he purchased an interest in the Fostoria (ray Light Company, and again located in Fostoria. taking his former position as superintendent and director. Mr. Gwynn married, January 21, 1885, Lou, daughter of I. N. and Harriet Mickey, of Fostoria.

ROBERT W. HALE, physician, Fostoria, was born in Jefferson County, Ohio, September 26, 1836, son of James and Mary (Hale) Hale (the former a native of Pennsylvania, the latter of Baltimore, Md.), who settled in Washington Township, Hancock County, in 1836. Our subject was reared in Hancock County, and educated in the common schools; began the study of medicine with Dr. R. C. Caples, in Fostoria, in 1852; attended one course of lectures (1855-56) at the Western Reserve Medical College in Cleveland, Ohio; and graduated from the National Medical College, Washington, D. C., in 1858 He began the practice of medicine in Fostoria with Dr. R. C. Caples in 1856, with whom he has been connected to the present time. He was acting assistant surgeon in the United States Army from April, 1862, up to September of the same year; from May to September, 1864, he was surgeon of the One Hundred and Sixty-fourth Ohio National Guards. He also served in the capac ity of brigade sur eon of Gen. John C. Lee's brigade. Dr. Hale was married, September l5, 1858, to Louisa Conoway, daughter of John and Charlotte (Caples) Conoway, of Fostoria, and by her has had four children: Cora (deceased), John C., Mabel and Robert W., Jr. The Doctor and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a F. & A. M., and a member of the G A. R. Politically he is a Republican.

JOHN C. HARTLEY, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Washington County, Penn., April 25, 1828, son of Benjamin and Catherine (Rake) Hartley, the former a native of Virginia and the latter of Washington County, Penn., and who settled in this county in 1831, where the father of our subject entered 160 acres of land, which he cleared and improved, and here resided until his death; he died August 8, 1882, in his eighty-eighth year. Benjamin Hartley was married three times, first to Sarah Middleton, and by this union he had one daughter, Harriet (deceased). By his second wife (nee Catherine Rake) he had the following children: Eliza, Mrs. David Bosler; Simon I.; Sarah A., Mrs. Robert Mullert (deceased); Susannah, Mrs. Eli Huff; John C.; Mary; Elizabeth, Mrs. John W. Griffith; Catherine, Mrs. John Rainey; and Benjamin (deceased). By his third wife (nee Eliza Fox) he had eleven children, of whom four survive: Rebecca (Mrs. John Greenbrier), Hannah, Elias and Sylvester. Our subject, who was reared in Loudon Township from three

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years of age, was educated in the common schools and Heidelberg College, Tiffin. He has always engaged in farming. He was married, September 11. 1858, to Susannah D., daughter of Aaron and Mary (Devilbiss) Cover, who were among the early settlers of Loudon Township. By this union there were ten children: Aaron B. (deceased), James Casper, Thomas B., Charles W., Ada C., Eliza J., Mary Elizabeth, John W., Martha Emily and Arvie D. Mrs. Hartley died September 8, 1884, at the age of forty-five years, four months and four days. Mr. Hartley has filled several of the minor office, of his township. Politically he is a Democrat.

P. W. HATHAWAY, of the firm of Hathaway, Campbell & Co., proprie tors of planing-mill, and sash, door and blind manufacturers, Fostoria, was born in Bristol County, Mass., May 9,1822, son of Philip and Didamia Hathaway wilt) settled in Sandusky County; Ohio, in 1834, clearing and improving a farm on which they lived and died. In 1852 our subject settled in Montgomery Township, Wood Co., Ohio, where he cleared and improved a farm, on which he resided up to 1873, when he located in Fostoria, and embarked in mercantile business, which he conducted for several years, one year of this time in Jerry City, Wood Co., Ohio. In 1877 he formed a partnership with George W. Campbell, Jerry Nestlerode and W. H. H. Williams in his present business, the firm name being Hathaway, Campbell & Co. Nestlerode and Williams after ward sold their interests, and in 1882 James H. Campbell was admitted to the firm, the firm name continuing the same, and they are doing an extensive busi ness. Mr. Hathaway was twice married, first, in 1844, to Rhoda J., daughter of Ebenezer and Margaret Gould, of Sandusky County, Ohio, by whom ho had seven children: Josephine, Philip, Morrice, Fanny (deceased), Margaret, Ella and Clara. He was married, on second occasion, in 1877, to Catherine Bernard, of Fostoria. Mr. Hathaway is a member of the Disciple and his wife of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Hathaway,during the late war of the Rebellion, enlisted, in 1864, in the 100 days' service, and was commissioned captain of Company K, One Hundred and Forty-fourth Ohio National Guards, and after serving his time received an honorable discharge. He is a member of the G. A. R. He is now serving his second term as councilman of Fostoria. Politically he is a Republican.

CHARLES HAYS, druggist, Fostoria, was born in Fostoria. this county, March 20, 1851, son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Mickey) Hays. His paternal grandfather, Henry Hays, a native of Pennsylvania, was a pioneer of Perry Township, Wood Co., Ohio, where he settled in 1834 and died April 10, 1837 . His maternal grandfather, Jeremiah Mickey, a native of Pennsylvania, came to what is now Fostoria in 1832. The father of our subject located in Fostoria in an early day and engaged in farming; he taught school for many years and was also engaged in the hotel business; he was married, November 29, 1849, and died February 27, 1869, in his forty-seventh year, his children were tire in number, of whom two are now living: Charles and Frederick. Our subject, who was reared and educated in Fostoria, at the age of nineteen went to Cleveland and entered the drug establishment of Strong; Cobb & Co., with whom he remained up to 1874. He then returned to Fostoria and served as book keeper for W. H. Grapes & Co. .for three years. In 1878 he and his uncle, David Hays, purchased the drug business of Charles Park, which they con ducted up to 1884, when our subject became sole proprietor, and has since doll" a successful business. Mr. Hays, by his uniform courtesy, has made hosts of friends and customers. In politics he is a Republican.

FRANK HAYS, publisher of the Democrat, Fostoria,was born in Fostoria, this county, April 24. 1853. son of Marshall and Margaret (Musser) Hays,

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natives of Pennsylvania and among the pioneers of Fostoria. Our subject was reared in his native town and educated in its common schools and at the Normal school at Republic. In 1873, 1874 and 1875 he was engaged in the lumber interests; during the year 1875 he embarked in the newspaper business, and in the fall of that year began the publication of the Fostoria Democrat with R. C. Meyer, with whom he was associated four years, then purchased his partner's interest and has since conducted the enterprise himself, his paper being one of the liveliest and newsiest sheets published in this section of the State. Mr. Hays was foreman for several years in the fire department of Fostoria, with which he was connected ten years.

JOHN F. HEILMAN, sash and blind manufacturer, Fostoria, was born in York County, Penn., November 1, 1817; son of Philip and Catherine (Klatfelter) Heilman. He was reared on a farm in his native State, where he received a common school education. He was married, February 16, 1843, to Cynthia E., daughter of George and Elizabeth (Small) Swigart, natives of Pennsylvania, who settled in Scipio Township, this county, in 1844. The issue of this union was five children: George E., Thomas C., Nellie B., John 14. (deceased) and Lola M. (deceased). Shortly after his marriage Mr. Heilman came to this county and settled in Bloom Township, where he farmed up to 1865, when he was elected auditor of this county, an office he held two successive terms. In 1873 he located in Fostoria and formed a partnership with M. V. Green in the door, sash and blind business, in which he has been engaged to the present time. Mr. Heilman is one of the representative citizens and business men of Fostoria. In politics he is a Democrat. Mrs. Heilman is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

JOHN HEILMAN, farmer and stock-dealer, P. O., Fostoria, was born in Bavaria, Germany, in June, 1842, son of William and Margaret (Fruth) Heilman, who immigrated to America in 1848, settling in Loudon Township, this county, where they resided until their death. Our subject was reared in Loudon Township from five years of age, and received a limited education in the common schools. At twenty years of age he purchased the farm where he now resides, and on which he has made many improvements, erecting all his present buildings. He was united in marriage, March 23,.1862, with Margaret, daughter of George and Margaret (Shobach) Fruth, who settled in Loudon Township, this county, in 1833. By this union there are six children living: William, Lillie, Mary, Sarah, George and Curtis. Mr. and Mrs. Heilman are attendants of the Lutheran Church. He has served his township three years as justice of the peace. He is a F. & A. M.; politically a Republican.

ADAM HELFRICK, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Hessen-Darmstadt, Germany, January 22, 1826, son of Jacob and Catherine (Smith) Helfrick, who immigrated to America in 1835, and located in Carroll County, Ohio, where they resided three years. In 1839 they came to this county and settled on Section 18, in Loudon Township, clearing and improving the farm now owned by our subject. The father died in Fostoria in 1868, at the age of seventy-two, and the mother in 1847, aged forty.-four years. They reared a family of four children: Adam, Margaret (Mrs. John Peter), Catherine (Mrs. William H. Hample) and Elizabeth (Mrs. Michael Miller, deceased). Our subject was reared in Loudon Township from thirteen years of age. He remained with his parents until his marriage, September 21, 1852, with Charlotte, daughter of Abraham and Barbara (Shobach) Peter, early settlers of Loudon Township. After his marriage, Mr. Helfrick settled on the farm on which he has since resided. Mr. and Mrs. Helfrick have two children: Catherine (wife of George Mertel) and Albert. Our subject and wife are

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members of the Lutheran Church. He is a respected farmer and citizen of London Township. Politically he is a Democrat.

C. A. HENRY, physician, Fostoria, was born in Perry Township, Wood Co., Ohio, January 5, 1844, son of Hosea and Nancy (Smith) Henry. His paternal grandfather, Benai Henry, a native of New Hampshire, a farmer by occupation, was a pioneer of Perry Township, Wood Co., Ohio, where ho lived and died. His maternal grandfather, Charles Smith, was a native of Pennsylvania, a veteran in the war of 1812, and one of the first settlers of Montgomery Township, Wood County, where he cleared and improved a farm on which he lived and died; his widow died in February, 1885, in her ninety-seventh year. Hosea Henry, the father of our subject, was a pioneer of Perry Township, where he cleared and improved a farm of 195 acres, on which he lived until he died, in 1883, at the age of seventy-six years. Hosea and Nancy Henry had six children: Orrin; Charles A.; Thomas, who resides on the old homestead; Lorinda, wife of James Lusk (deceased): Perry; and Alice. wife of Dr. David Fruith. Three of the sons were in the army during the civil war: Orrin, Thomas and C. A. Our subject was reared on the old homestead and received his early education in the common schools. He enlisted in 1864, in Company E, One Hundred and Forty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry: served six months when he was honorably discharged. In 1865 he began reading medicine in the office of Dr. C. R. Rosendale, of Mill Grove, Ohio, with whom he remained three years. He attended a course of lectures in Cincinnati, in the winter of 1866-67, and graduated there in 1870. In 1871 he located in Fostoria, this county, and began the practice of medicine with Dr. A. C. Williams, with whom be was associated ten years. He then formed a partnership with Dr. Park L. Myers, with whom he is still associated. Dr. Henry, one of the leading physicians of Fostoria, is thoroughly wedded to his profession, and, by strict attention to business and uniform courtesy to all, he has made many friends and has built up an extensive practice. He was married, January 6, 1870, to Harriet M., daughter of Benjamin and Hannah (Kinneman) Crone, of Ashland, Ohio, by whom he has one child, Charles A. The Doctor is a member of the Masonic fraternity. Politically he is a stanch Republican, and is now serving his second term as member of the Fostoria council,

COL. LYMAN J. HISSONG, dry goods merchant, Fostoria, was born in Richland County, Ohio, April 1, 1839, son of John and Rachael (Spade) Hissong, natives of Pennsylvania and pioneers of Richland County, Our subject, who was reared and educated in his native county, at the age of twenty, located in Hancock County, Ohio, and engaged in farming and as clerk in a store for two years. $e next moved to Napoleon, Henry Co., Ohio, where he clerked in a dry goods store until the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion. Then, October 21, 1861, he enlisted in Company I, Sixty-eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, was appointed orderly sergeant, serving with the regiment two years, participating in the battles of Fort Donelson, Corinth, Iuka and others. In the spring of 1863 he was commissioned captain of the Fifth Heavy Artillery, in Gen. T. H. J. Wood's Division.. After the surrender of Vicksburg and Jackson, Miss., he was taken on the staff of Maj. Gen. Osterhaus, as provost-marshal for the northern district of Mississippi, with headquarters at Jackson. In the massacre at Milliken's Bend, La., June 7, 1863, Col. Hissong was severely wounded by a bullet shot in the thigh, a trophy which he still carries. For meritorious service in this battle his friends in Richland County presented him with a silk banner which went with him through the war and is still in his possession. After this he was promoted to major and

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soon to lieutenant-colonel, by Secretary Stanton, and commanded the post at Vicksburg, Miss., for over a year. After the troops were mustered out he was retained on general court-marshal duty at Vicksburg about four months. About the close of the war he was commissioned full colonel, by brevet, by Andrew Johnson for meritorious services rendered at the battle of Milliken's Bend. He left the service in June, 1866. Col. Hissong was engaged in mercantile business in Hancock County, and at Napoleon, Ohio, for eight years thereafter. In 1875 he located in Fostoria, this county, and embarked in the dry goods business here, which he has continued successfully to the present time. He owns a fine store at North Baltimore, and also at Ottawa, Ohio, where he is doing an extensive business. He was married, in March, 1868, to Jennie, daughter of Thomas and Margaret (Holler) Carr, of Hancock County, Ohio, and by her he has one child, Harry. Mr. Hissong is a member of the I. O. O. F. and the G. A. R. He is a charter member of the First National Bank of Fostoria. Politically he is a Republican.

WILLIAM T. HISTE, ex-county commissioner, Fostoria, was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, September 26, 1826, and came here with his parents, George and Sarah (Sawlaw) Histe, who settled in Fostoria, Ohio, in 1844. His father, a brick-maker and wheelwright by trade, for several years after coming here worked at cabinet-making, after which he manufactured brick for upward of twenty-five years; he died November 5, 1884, in his eighty-fifth year; his widow survives him at the age of eighty-three. They had a family of eight children: Maria, wife of George Miller; Willimn T.; Matilda, wife of Joseph England; Cordelia, wife of Daniel Weaver; Catharine, wife of J. Q. Albert; F. Marion; Sarah A., wife of Theodore Brown, and Benjamin F. Our subject was reared and educated in his native county. He was married, May 15, 1851, to Mary, daughter of William and Rebecca (Lytle) Noble, of Jackson Township, this county, by whom he has two children: Isabel, wife of Jeremiah Blosser, and Cecelia, wife of Cassius C. Boodle. In 1851 Mr. Histe embarked in the manufacture of brick which he carried on at intervals, up to 1865, when he engaged in farming in Jackson Township, living there until the spring of 1871., when he returned to Fostoria and resumed the manufacture of brick which he continued for three years. Then for a year (1874), he was in the furniture business. In the fall of 1878 he was elected to the office of county commissioner, re-elected in 1881, his term expiring December 1, 1884. In politics he is a stanch Democrat.

EDWARD B. HOWELL, proprietor of Central Hotel, Fostoria, was born in Susquehanna County, Penn., November 24, 1828; son of Samuel and Laura (Robinson) Howell, natives of New York and who settled in Fostoria, Ohio, in 1845. Samuel Howell, a tanner by trade, conducted a tannery in that part of Fostoria known as Risdon, for five years, when he retired from business. He was succeeded by his sons Edward B. and Royal R., who carried on the business for several years. Samuel Howell died in 1871 at the age of seventy-eight years, and his wife in 1852 at the age of fifty-six. Their children, eight in number, were as follows: Caroline (deceased), Charles (deceased), Mary (Mrs. John T. Ford, of Chillicothe, Mo.), Edward B., Marcus W. (a resident of California), William (also residing in California), Royal R. and Eliza (deceased). Our subject located in Fostoria in 1847, and with his brother Royal R. conducted a tannery for two years. In 1853 he purchased a saw-mill in Caroline, this county, which he operated for a year and a half, when he moved to Findlay, Ohio, where he resided for eighteen years (nine years of this time he was in the employ of what is now known as the Indiana, Bloomington & Western Railroad Company). In 1874 he returned to

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Fostoria, where he has lived (with the exception of two years spent in Tiffin) ever since. In 1882 he embarked in the hotel business, in which he has been successfully engaged to the present time; his hotel, known as the "Central," having the reputation of being the best $1.50 per day house in this section of the State. Mr. Howell was married, November 25 , 1849, to Charity, daughter of Jacob and Charlotte Kinnaman, of Fostoria, this county, and by leer he has three children: Corwin B., W Willis P. and Nellie M. Mr. and Mrs. Howell are members of the Congregational Church. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. Politically he is a Republican.

WILLIS P. HOWELL, dentist, Fostoria, was born in Caroline, this county, May 18, 1855, son of Edward and Charity (Kinnaman) Howell. He was reared and educated in Findlay, Ohio. In 1874 he began the study of dentistry in the office of J. A. Stockton, of Lima, and in 1875 went to Tiffin and entered the dental office of Dr. P. J. Kinnaman. He received a certificate from the Ohio State Board of Dental Examiners in 1878. In 1877 he began the practice of his profession, and in 1879 formed a copartnership with J. F. O'Brien, with whom he was associated up to February, 1885. Dr. Howell was united in marriage, May 25, 1882, with Matilda C., daughter of John and Philibena (Reise) Andes, of Fostoria, Ohio. Dr. Howell has built up a good practice. Politically he is a Republican.

JUNIUS V. JONES, attorney, Fostoria, was born in Gallia County. Ohio, January 23, 1823 son of James and Priscella (Blagg) Jones, natives of Virginia and pioneers of Perry Township, Wood Co., Ohio, where they settled in 1832, clearing and improving a farm on which they lived and died. They reared a family of nine children: Gideon (deceased), Elizabeth (deceased), Emily (deceased), Huldah (deceased), Simpson, Virginia (wife of Joseph Eckels), Junius V.. William H. and Seneca (deceased). Our subject was reared in Perry Township from ten years of age, and was educated in the select school of Fostoria under the instruction of Warren P. Noble. In 1846 he settled in Fostoria, this county, where he has since resided. In 1853 he was elected justice of the peace, which office he held for five consecutive terms of three years each, and during this time he began the study of law, was admitted to the bar in 1868, and to practice in the United States Courts April 12, 1877. He was married, in 1847, to Maria, daughter of Michael Musser, of Wood County, Ohio, and the issue of this union was seven children: Edwin. Charles, Will, Harry, Parley, Clara and Bert. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Jones was elected mayor of Fostoria in 1878, serving one term of two years, and has filled various other offices of trust. Politically he is a Republican.

THOMAS KELLEY, retired farmer, Fostoria, was born in Huntingdon County, Penn., April 6, 1800, son of Charles and Jemima (Crownover) Kelley, who settled on a farm four miles from Wooster, Ohio, in 1811. Our subject, from eleven years of age was reared in Wooster, and was there educated. In 1831 he located in Washington Township, Hancock County (had the honor of naming the township), and entered 160 acres of land. which he cleared and improved, and where he lived up to 1856, when he sold his farm and moved to Fremont, Ohio, residing there until 1866, when he came to Fostoria. He was twice married, first in July, 1823, to Catherine, daughter of John Lora, of Wayne County, Ohio, by whom he had seven children: John (deceased), Amanda (wife of Ambrose Corey), Sydna I. (wife of Philip Faulhaber), Sarah (wife of Thaddeus Ball), Minerva (wife of Christian German), Charles and Albert. Mr. Kelley was married on second occasion in Fremont, Ohio, in 1862, to Mrs. Emily G. Boren, widow of Levi E. Boren and daughter of

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James and Hettie (Culbertson) Prebles. Mr. Kelley is a prominent citizen of Fostoria. In politics he has always been a stanch Democrat, casting his first vote for Andrew Jackson.

MARTIN KINGSEED, retired merchant, Fostoria, was born in Bavaria, Germany, November 19, 1817; son of Anton and Margaret (Rauth) Kingseed, the former born in Dreyson, palatinate of Bavaria, June 26, 1796; the latter in Boerstadt, July 28, 1796; they were married, January 26, 1816, and settled in Boerstadt, where Anton Kingseed followed the trade of cabinet-maker. In 1832 they immigrated to America, locating in Hamburg, Berks Co., Penn., and in 1832 they moved to Pine Grove, Schuylkill Co., Penn., and engaged in farming. In 1834 they sold out and came by wagon to Ohio, locating in Seneca Township, this county, where Anton Kingseed purchased ninety-six acres of land, which he cleared and improved, and which he still resides on at the age of eighty-nine years. Anton and Margaret Kingseed were the parents of ten children, seven of whom survive: Martin, Peter, Christian, Margaret, Elizabeth, Sophia and Anthony. Anton Kingseed was twice married; on second occasion, in 1847, to Catherine Bauer, of Seneca Township, this county, and by her he had three children: Joseph, Emilia and Catherine. Emilia is matron of the homestead and Anthony has charge of the farm. Martin, the subject of this sketch, was seventeen years of age when he came to this county. Being endowed by nature with a strong healthy body and iron will he made himself useful at home until twenty-five years of age. After the death of his mother he worked six years in a saw-mill on the river, and January 2, 1847, he was nearly killed by a log rolling on him, and May 6 following he was found under another log, which accident laid him up for some time, and the effects of which he feels to this day. He then assisted in surveying the railroad from Bellefontaine to Union City for nine months. He was married, September 17, 1850, to Elmira E., daughter of Michael and Anastatia (Arnold) Noel, of Wyandot County, Ohio, and to this union were born eight children: Lewis A. (deceased), Charles E., Frank D., Zenobia M., Mary C., William A., Ella N. and Anna M. After his marriage Mr. Kingseed located in Tiffin, Ohio, and clerked in the hardware store of John G. Gross six years; then traded his property in Tiffin to Mr. Gross for a stock of hardware in Fostoria, this county, and removed therein October, 1855, where he was actively engaged in business up to August 1, 1884, when be retired, his son, Frank D., being his successor. Mr. Kingseed is universally esteemed by all who know him. Politically he is a Democrat.

FRED KINNAMAN, of the firm of W. M. Kinnaman, art and fancy goods store, Fostoria, was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, September 3, 1833; son of Jacob and Mary (W Whitmore) Kinnaman (the former a native of Connecticut, the latter of New Jersey), who settled in Wood County, Ohio, in the fall of 1833, locating in Perry Township, where they purchased a tract of 1,800 acres of land and cleared and improved a farm on which Jacob Kinnaman resided until 1859, in which year he moved to Mill Grove, and there died in 1863, at the age of eighty-nine years. He reared a family of twelve children, of whom five survive: Jackson P. and Perry I., physicians of Tiffin, Ohio; Fred; Charity, Mrs. E. B. Howell; and Mary, Mrs. Christian Myers, of California. Our subject was reared and educated in Ashland County, Ohio, and lived there up to 1861. He then moved to Mill Grove, and in 1863 located in Findlay, Ohio, where he lived until 1879; since 1871 he has been engaged in his present business. He was married, October 14, 1852, to Kate Hettinger, of Bellville, Richland Co., Ohio., by whom he has three children: C. Frank, Wilber M. and Harry R. Mr. Kinnaman is a member of the I. O. O. F. In politics he is a Republican.

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DANIEL KISER, retired farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Stark County, Ohio, April 20, 1822; son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Grove) Kiser, who came to Seneca County in 1834 and settled in London Township, where the father entered 160 acres of land from the Government, which, with the assistance of his sons, he cleared and improved. The country at that time, was a wilderness, and they had to hew a road through the woods for thirteen miles to get on their land. Jacob Kiser died in 1859, at the age of seventy-two years, and his wife in 1857, at the age of seventy-one. They had a family of eleven children. Our subject was reared in London Township, this count . from ten years of age, and received a limited education in the schools of his day. He remained at home with his parents until twenty years of ago, when he started out for himself. April 20, 1843, he married Nancy A. daughter of James and Agnes (Bunting) Scott, of Loudon Township, this county, and by her he had nine children: Andrew J., Lorenzo, Lequiner. Leander, Alfred, Ira, Sarah J. (Mrs. Joseph Van Fossen), Libbie and Elmer. Of these Andrew J. and Lorenzo served in the late war, the former in the One Hundred and Twenty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry for eighteen months, acid the latter in the One Hundred and Fifty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving eleven months, both being honorably discharged at close of the will. After his marriage Mr. Kiser rented a farm for three years, and in 1846 purchased eighty acres of land on Sections 18 and 19, which he cleared and improved, and on which he resided up to 1873, when be removed to Fostoria, where he lived two years. In 1875 he purchased the farm of seventeen acres he now .occupies, and where he has resided ever since. He was a member of the United Brethren Church for forty-two years, but in the spring of 1883 united with the Protestant Methodist Church, of which he is now one of flit, trustees. Politically he has been a member of the Republican party since its organization.

SAMUEL KISER, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Stark County, Ohio, June 29, 1828; son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Grove) Kiser, natives of Pennsylvania, parents of eleven children, and who came to this county in 1834, settling in Loudon Township on the farm now occupied by our subject, which they cleared and improved, and on which they resided until their death Samuel Kiser, the subject of this sketch, has resided on the old homestead since six years of age. June 26, 1850, he married Julia A., daughter of Isaac and Eleanor DeWitt, pioneers of Big Spring Township, and by this union there were four children: Emily (deceased), Alvin, Lou E. and Charles. Mr. Kiser has made many improvements on the old homestead since it came into his possession; has cleared forty acres of the 178 acres which comprises his farm (140 of which are under a high state of cultivation): in 1879 he built a fine brick residence on the property, and has also erected commodious outbuildings. He has held the office of township trustee for several terms, besides other minor offices. Politically he is a Republican.

HENRY W. KONKLE, contractor, Fostoria, was born in Lehigh County, Penn. December 7, 1834, son of Henry and Hannah (Swander) Konkle. In 1838 his parents settled in Fairfield County, Ohio, where they remained up to 1871, when they located in Lucas County, Ohio. Our subject came to Seneca County in 1845, and lived with his grandfather, John Swander, near Tiffin. Ohio, until twenty-three years of age. March 14, 1867, he married Emily. daughter of Baker and Ann Hale, of Hancock County, Ohio, and the issue of this union was one child-Nettle. Mr. Konkle learned the trade of bricklayer when a young man, which he has followed up to the present time. He located in Fostoria in 1859, and since 1860 has been actively engaged a, at building

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contractor. many of the prominent buildings of Fostoria having been erected by him, the plans for the same being also his work. From 1876 to 1880 Mr. Knokle was interested in the furniture business. He is an active member of the Reformed Church. He is a member of Fostoria Lodge No. 305, I. O. O. F. Mr. Konkle has served as member of the city council two years. He was in the late war of the Rebellion, having enlisted in April, 1861, in Company H. Twenty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was honorably discharged.

FRED KOSS, manufacturer, Fostoria, was born in Grubenhagen, Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg, Germany, November 4, 1846, son of John and Mary (Hennig) Koss. Our subject was reared and educated in his native land, where he served an apprenticeship of three years at the carpenter's trade. In 1869 he immigrated to America, settling in Fostoria, Ohio, where he worked at his trade up to 1880, when he became associated with Jacob Mergenthaler in the planing-mill, and manufacturing of sash, doors, blinds, etc., in which he is engaged at the present time. Mr. Koss was united in marriage, October 18, 1871, with Mary, daughter of Louis and Mary (Goodyear) Karg, of Findlay, Ohio, and by her he has three children: Charles, John and Augusta. Mr. and Mrs. Koss are members of the German Lutheran Church. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum; politically a Democrat.

CHARLES W. LYTLE, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Chili, Monroe Co., N. Y., November 8, 1827, son of Daniel and Betsey (Foster) Lytle, the former a native of Rhode Island, and the latter of Massachusetts. He was reared and educated in his native county, and in 1854 located in Fostoria, Ohio, and entered the store of C. Foster & Co., where he served in the capacity of clerk up to 1868, since which time he has been engaged in farming and various other business enterprises. He was united in marriage in April, 185 7, with Frances M., daughter of Frederick and Christine (Kempher) Febles, of Jackson Township, this county, by whom he has three children: Jennie M., Frederick D. and Emma A. Mr. Lytle. one of the substantial farmers and citizens of London Township, is a member of the I. O. O. F. Politically he is a Republican.

EDWARD MARKS, ice dealer and proprietor of bottling works, Fostoria, was born in Big Spring Township, this county, in February, 1851; son of Nicholas and Theresa (Kehl) Marks, natives of Germany, who settled in Big Spring Township in 1849, where Nicholas Marks, a farmer by occupation, cleared and improved the farm on which he still resides. Their children were ,oven in number: Nicholas, Edward, Elizabeth (Mrs. John Walker), Anna (Mrs. Joseph Hackenrader), Thomas, Michael and Aggie. Our subject was reared on the old homestead, educated in the common schools, and remained with his parents until twenty-one years of age. He learned the plasterer's trade in Tiffin, Ohio, which he followed three years and a half. In 18 72 be came to Fostoria and entered the store of Nye & Cooper as clerk. The same year he bought Mr. Cooper's interest in the business, which was then conducted under the firm name of Nye & Marks for several years, after which he engaged in the liquor business. In 1881 Mr. Marks became interested in a large bottling establishment of this city, of which he is now sole proprietor, and he bas also for several years been engaged in the ice trade, having put up over 1,000 tons this season. Mr. Marks was married, in 1874, to Josephine, daughter of Peter Dumond of Adrian, Ohio, and by her he has one child-Rossie. Mr. Marks is one of the enterprising and public spirited citizens of Fostoria. He is a Democrat in politics. He and his wife are members of the Catholic Church.

JACOB MERGENTHALER, manufacturer, Fostoria, was born in London Township, this county, November 30, 1838; son of Gottfried Mergenthaler, a

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native of Germany, a farmer by occupation, and who was a pioneer of Loudon Township, this county, where he cleared and improved a farm, on which he lived and died. Our subject, who was reared in his native township, when nineteen years of age, left home and served an apprenticeship of four years at the carpenter's trade, which occupation he followed up to 1881. when. with J. S. Bowers, he engaged in the planing, door, sash and blind manufacturing business. In 1882 Fred Boss bought the interest of Mr. Bowers, and since that time the business has been conducted under firm name of Mergenthaler & Koss, who by strict attention to business have built up a large arid extensive trade. Mr. Morgenthaler was married, in the fall of 1861, to Mary Karl, of Fostoria, by whom he has four children: Ada, William, Rollin and Ola. Mr. and Mrs. Mergenthaler are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is one of the representative business men of Fostoria. In politics he is a Democrat.

MELCHER MERGENTHALER, carriage manufacturer. Fostoria, was born in Loudon Township, this county, July 19, 1811. His father. Gottfried Mergenthaler, a native of Germany, settled in London Township. this county, in 1831, and here Melcher was reared and educated. Our subject, at the age of eighteen, came to Fostoria where he served an apprenticeship tit wagon-making for three years with George Gehr, Esq. He then worked as journeyman till 1865, when he embarked in business for himself, in which he has successfully engaged to the present time. Our subject was united in marriage, July 19, 1863, with Catherine, daughter of Henry Bucher, of Loudon Township, this county, and by her he has three children: Andrew, assistant cashier in the First National Bank; Charles and Rella. Mr. and Mrs. Mergenthaler are members of the Presbyterian Church. Politically he is a Democrat.

JAMES L. MICKEY, farmer and stock-dealer, Fostoria. was born in what is now Ashland County, Ohio, November 10, 1831; son of Jeremiah and Sarah (Loman) Mickey, the former a native of Pennsylvania, the latter of Maryland. His paternal grandfather, Daniel Mickey, was a native of Pennsylvania and a pioneer of Ashland County, Ohio, and his maternal grandfather, Richard Loman, formerly of Maryland, was a pioneer of Perry Township, Wood Co., Ohio, where he lived and died. The parents of our subject settled in what is now Fostoria, Ohio, in 1832. His father who engaged in mercantile business, during the cholera excitement of 1834, went with his family to Richland County, but soon returned, and in 1835 embarked in the hotel business, his hotel being the first in what was then known as Risdon. He conducted the hotel until t841, when he was lulled in a ditch by a bank caving on him. His family consisted of six children: Elizabeth (Mrs. Thomas Hays), James L., Sarah (deceased), Isaac N., William (deceased) and Richard (deceased). Our subject was reared and received a common school education in Fostoria. He succeeded to the hotel business of his father, which he conducted up to 1856, when lee engaged in the lightning rod industry, following it four years. In April, 1861, he was appointed postmaster of Fostoria, which position he held up to October, 1870. He then purchased a farm in Loudon Township, this county, and engaged in stock business. In 1873 he erected one third of the brick building known as the Mickey Block, his division comprising two stores. throe stories high, each 22x75 feet. Mr. Mickey was married, in 1862, to Mary, daughter of David H. Edgar, of Dunkirk, Ohio. The issue of this union was the children: Harry, Claude, Newton, Charles and Don. Mr. Mickey is now holding the office of township treasurer, which he has filled for several terms. He is a F. & A. M. Politically he is a Republican.

JAMES C. MILLHIME, retired, Fostoria, was born in York County, Penn., June 30, 1823; sort of John J. and Mary (Steyer) Millhime. He was

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reared and educated in his native county, and served an apprenticeship of two years at the miller's trade in Adams County, Penn.; in the winter of 1847-48 he located in Fostoria, Ohio, and in 1848 purchased a farm of eighty acres in Jackson Township, this county. He was a miller in Carbaugh's mill, at Fostoria, in 1848, and later in the mill of Roswell Crocker; was afterward employed for several years as collector for Foster & Son. He then embarked in mercantile business on his own account, in which he continued up to 1883. In 1869 he was elected to the office of clerk of Seneca County, a position he held for two consecutive terms. In 1876 he erected the Keystone Block, the building being 22x90 feet, and two stories high. In 1842 Mr. Millhime was married to Mary, daughter of Jacob and Mary (Bair) Throne, of Hanover, Penn, by whom he had five children: Edwin (died of fever at Camp Nevins during the late war of the Rebellion); Lucinda (deceased); Emma, wife of Christian Kistner; Mary, wife of Samuel Drenning, and James B. Mr. Millhime has been assessor of Fostoria for several terms. He is one of the public spirited citizens of the }lace, always alive to its interests. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and of the K. of H. Politically he is a Democrat.

JOHN P. MUENCH, grocer, Fostoria, born in Baden, Germany, November 6, 1853, son of Jacob and Rosa (Muench) Muench, was reared and educated in his native land. His father died in 1867, and in the summer of the same year our subject, with his mother, three sisters and a brother, immigrated to America and located in Fremont, Ohio, where he served an apprenticeship of three years at the painter's trade. He then moved to Toledo, where he worked at his trade one year, after which he went to Coldwater, Mich., and there worked at his trade three months. In the fall of 1874 he located in Fostoria, this county, and followed his trade ten years. April 1, 1884, Mr. Muench embarked in the grocery business in which he has been successfully engaged to the present time. He has been twice married. His first wife, to whom he was married August 29, 1876, was Catherine, daughter of Nicholas and Margaret Walters, of Fostoria, and who bore him one child-William. Our subject was married on second occasion, November 25, 1880, to Rosa, daughter of John and Theresa (Mainzer) Gnieser, of Sandusky County, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Muench are members of the German Lutheran Church. Politically he is a Democrat.

DANIEL W. MUSSER, liveryman, Fostoria, was born in Ravenna, Portage Co., Ohio, April 13, 1831, son of Jacob and Syndonia (Garrison) Musser. Jacob Musser, a pioneer blacksmith of Ravenna, settled in West Millgrove, Wood Co., Ohio, in 1855, and died there in 1870. Our subject settled in Fostoria in 1858, and embarked in the livery business in which he has continued up to the present time and is the oldest established liveryman in the place. In 1861 he was united in marriage with Savannah, daughter of George and Mary Buchtel, of Fostoria, this county, and by her he has three children: Ida M., James W. and Hattie D. Mr. Musser is one of the prominent citizens of Fostoria and is widely known. He pays strict attention to his business interests, and is courteous and obliging to all who may favor him with their patronage. Politically he is a Republican.

PARK L. MYERS, physician, Fostoria, was born in Fostoria, this county, May 28, 1860, son of Jacob J. and Rachel A. (Harsh) Myers, the former a native of Allegheny County, Penn., and the latter of Carroll County, Ohio. His paternal grandfather, John Myers, was a native of Germany and a pioneer farmer of Allegheny County, Penn. His maternal grandfather, John Harsh, was a pioneer of Carroll County, Ohio, and later of Seneca County, Ohio. The father of our subject, who was a wagon-maker by trade, settled in

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Fostoria about 1848, where he worked as a journeyman for several years; then embarked in business for himself, continuing in the same till his death in 1875. His family consisted of five children: Eva (Mrs. Dr. F. J. Schaufelberger), Bruce M., Ralph (deceased), Park L. and Lulu. Our subject was reared in Fostoria, this county, where he received his early education. He began the study of medicine in the office of Williams & Henry, in Fostoria, in 1875, and in 1876 entered the medical department of the Wooster University, of Cleveland, Ohio, where he took one course of lectures. In 1878 he entered the Ohio Medical College of Cincinnati, graduating therefrom in 1879. He afterward took a course in 1879--80, and in July, 1880, began the practice of medicine in Fostoria. In 1881 he formed a partnership with Dr. C. A. Henry, with whom he is associated at present. Dr. Myers is a .member of the K. of P. In politics he is a Republican.

CHRISTOPHER C. NESTLERODE, teacher and farmer, Fostoria, was born in Bald Eagle Valley, Centre Co., Penn., March 17, 1824, son of Israel and Susannah (Forrey) Nestlerode, who were natives of Lancaster County, Penn. The Nestlerode family originally came from Poland, and were Polish-Russian aristocrats, but in the famous Polish insurrection a part of the family joined the insurgents under Kosciusko, a few of whom afterward fled to America to escape a rebel's death. Those who remained loyal to the Russian government were rewarded with official positions. Count Nestlerode, a cousin of the grandfather of our subject, represented Russia at Washington during Jackson's administration » , and was prime minister of that country until he was nearly ninety years old. John and Christian, great-grandfather and grandfather of our subject, were in the Federal service during the Revolutionary war, and served with distinction. Israel Nestlerode, father of our subject, was the tenth of twenty-six children, and was born December 2, 1795. His youth was spent in lumbering, rafting, fishing and fanning. May 22, 1823, he married Susannah Forrey, born February 15, 1801, daughter of Jacob and Susan (Lightner) Forrey, and granddaughter of John Forrey, a native of France. Israel Nestlerode and wife came to Perry Township, Wood Co., Ohio, in 1832, purchased eighty acres of land there, arid entered 170 acres in Jackson Township, Seneca County, comprising a farm of 250 acres, which, with about 390 acres more, was surrounded by a swale rum. This tract of land the Indians named "the Island, " and which after Mr. Nestlerode settled on it, they called " Nestlorode's Island," which name it bears to this day. Mr. Nestlerode, the first actual settler of Perry Township, lived there until 1856, when he removed to Fostoria, where he died September 5, 1879, in his eighty-fourth year; his widow died December 10, 1883, in her eighty-third year Their children were Christopher C., Margaret (deceased), Sarah (wife of Daniel Rhoad), Israel W., Jeremiah and Lafayette Marion (deceased). Our subject was reared in Perry Township from seven years of age, and was educated for the most part in the backwoods. He attended Norwalk Seminary one term and Republic Academy seven terms. When seventeen years of age he, began teaching in the common schools of Ohio. He taught five winters, working for his father each year during the farming season. He taught three years in the Tiffin Union Schools, and two years in the State of Arkansas. He organized the first union school west of the Mississippi, at Tipton, Iowa. He superintended the Tipton Union School five years; held the first teacher's institute ever held in Iowa. He held teachers' institutes in all the leading cities and towns of eastern and southern Iowa. He was chosen by the Iowa State Teachers' Association to represent that body at the State Board of Education. which held it first session in Des Moines, Iowa, during the winter of 1858-59. At that session the present world-renowned free school laws of Iowa were passed.

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Mr. Nestlerode was invited to a seat in that body, and was made an honorary member. He rendered much valuable service to the board, and no act was passed that was not first closely examined and carefully revised by him. He for three years edited the Iowa Instructor, the first free school journal published in the State. He sent a copy to each school board and prominent educator in the State. He waged a merciless warfare against the " school-killers," both in the Instructor and in the school rooms, and other places where he had the time and opportunity to address the hardy and intelligent pioneers of Iowa. He spared neither effort nor money in enforcing the school laws he had so anxiously assisted in making, and which provides the means for every child, rich or poor, colored or white, to receive an education free as the air he breathes. In 1.862 Mr. Nestlerode was called from his labors in Iowa (the greatest sacrifice of his life) to the home of his boyhood to minister unto his parents in their afflictions and fast-failing health, and to bear the burdens that bad become too heavy for them, which resulted in prolonging their lives nearly twenty years. The school board of Fostoria, Ohio, in the same year of his return, elected Mr. Nestlerode to take charge of their school. He undertook the work in connection with his home duties. He found the school merely a district school, and while in that shape incapable of successful development, but nothing daunted he set about educating the people of Fostoria for a change in their school system, and never ceased his effort until the Union School Law of Ohio for cities and towns was adopted, under which he organized a union school that has grown to be one of the foremost in the State. He was married, January b, 1871, to Mary A., daughter of Hon. Morris P. and Mary (Gorsuch) Skinner, of Fostoria, by .whom he has one child-Mary Elizabeth. Mr. Nestlerode has held the office of mayor of Fostoria, secretary of the board of education, and numerous other offices. In politics he is a stanch advocate of prohibition.

JEREMIAH NESTLERODE, druggist and dealer in real estate, Fostoria, was born in Perry Township, Wood Co., Ohio, June 26, 1834, son of Israel and Susannah (Forrey) Nestlerode, who settled there in 1832. Our subject was reared in his native township, and there received a common school education. He remained at home until his twenty-first year, when he engaged in farming for himself in Wood County, Ohio, which he continued up to twenty-eight years of age. In 1862 he located in Fostoria, this county, and entered general mercantile business, in which he remained fourteen years. In 1866 he opened a branch store, which he conducted for eight years in Jerry City (which was named in his honor), Wood County, Ohio. In 1874 he embarked for second time in the dry goods business in Fostoria, this county, which he followed for one year, and in 1875 was a contractor for county and railroad work. In 1877-78 Mr. Nestlerode was connected with the sash and blind manufacturing business under the firm name first of Bower & Co., then Hathaway, Campbell & Co. In 1879 he engaged in the clothing business, and the same year bought a stock of dry goods and carried on that business for two years. He was engaged in the livery business from 1880 to 1884. In 1881 Mr. Nestlerode embarked in the drug business, in which he is still interested, and has for many years also been engaged in the real estate business, being the first in Fostoria to make that line a specialty. He was married, January 23, 1857, to Ann E., daughter of Grafton and Rebecca Bernard, of Tiffin, Ohio. In politics Mr. Nestlerode has been a stanch Republican since the organization of the party.

LEVI NIEBEL, retired farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Union County, Penn., October 8, 1816, son of Henry and Mary (Irely) Niebel, who

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settled in what is now Wyandot County in 1834. Our subject remained with his parents until twenty-one years of age. January 1, 1838, he was united in marriage with Elizabeth, daughter of John Ritter, of Pickaway County, Ohio, and by her he had two children, Elijah and John, the latter deceased. January 1, 1842, Mr. Niebel. married his second wife, Hannah, daughter of Henry Bish, of Fairfield County, Ohio, and by her had one child, Henry B. Our subject located in Bloom Township, this county, in an early day, and clearest a farm of 100 acres, on which he resided up to 1854, when he settled in London Township, and cleared a part of the farm now occupied by his son Elijah; he also cleared another farm in the northern part of this township. He and his wife are members of the Evangelical Association. He has served as trustee of Loudon Township one term. Politically he is a Republican.

ELIJAH NIEBEL farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Berwick, this county, January 10, 1839, son of Levi and Elizabeth (Ritter) Niebel, pioneers of Seneca County. Our subject was reared in Bloom and Loudon Townships and received a limited education in the common schools. He removed from Bloom to London Township with his father in 1855, where, with the exception of six years, during which he resided in Fostoria, he has lived on the farm he now owns and occupies. He was in the late war of the Rebellion, enlisting October 29, 1861, in Company D Seventy-second Ohio, Volunteer Infantry; was in the battle of Shiloh, siege of Vicksburg, two engagements at Jackson, Miss., and was taken prisoner near Ripley, Miss., January 11, 1864, and sent to Andersonville, where he remained until the middle of September of that year, when he was transferred to Florence, S. C.; was paroled at Goldsboro, N. C., in March, 1865, and honorably, discharged June 19, 1865 after nearly four years' service. October 3, 1865, Mr. Niebel was married to Emily, daughter of David and Hannah (Miser) Young, pioneers of Loudon Township, this county. They had six children, four of whom survive: Minnie, Clara, Della and Arthur C. Mr. Niebel, wife and daughter are members of the United Brethren Church. He is a member of the G. A. R. He takes great interest in education. Politically he is a Republican. He is a prominent farmer and enterprising citizen; owner of a fine farm of 155 acres, 115 of which are under cultivation and thoroughly drained.

JOHN NOBLE, stave manufacturer, Fostoria, was born in Nottinghamshire, England, May 28, 1833, son of Francis and Pethia Noble. He was reared on a farm in Canada, whither his people had emigrated in 1836, settling in Brant County. When eighteen years of age, John Noble went to Paris, Canada, to learn the cooper's trade, and in 1857 come to Sandusky County, Ohio, locating in Clyde, where he remained until 1858, when he came to Fostoria. In 1864 he formed a partnership with John W. Griffith in the cooper business, which existed eight years. In 1871, together with his former partner, E. J. Cunningham, and Charles Foster, a company was established, known as the Fostoria Stave and Barrel Company (of which he is the present manager), which has conducted a successful business. Mr. Noble has been twice married, on the first occasion, in November, 1858, to Miss Ann Leech, who died April 3, 1861. His second marriage, July 13, 1863, was with Mrs. Mary E. Warner, widow of George W. Warner, and daughter of William and Mary Simons, early settlers of Seneca County, Ohio. The issue of this union was five children: Nellie M., Ada M., Sarah A., John W. and Lelia B. (the latter two deceased). Mr. Noble served in the late war of the Rebellion, enlisting in May, 1862, in the Eighty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served three months in West Virginia. In 1862 he joined the independent company of the Ohio National Guards, of which he was subsequently elected lieutenant,

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and to which he belonged until 1864, when he entered the 100 days' service. He is now serving his sixth year as member of the town council. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

JOHN H. NORRIS. physician, Fostoria, was born in Perry Township, Wood Co., Ohio, May 13, 1855, son of Hon. John and Rebecca C. (Cuthbert son) Norris, who were among the pioneers of that township. Our subject's father, who was a prominent citizen of Wood County, and served once from there as representative to the State Legislature, has been a resident of Fostoria since 1880. Our subject was reared on a farm and educated in the normal school at Republic. In 1874 he began the study of medicine in the office of Dr. J. C. Lincoln, of Bowling Green, Ohio, with whom he remained three years; graduated from the medical department of the Wooster University, Cleveland, Ohio, February 27, 1877, and began the practice of medicine at Bowling Green, in March of the same year, and there remained two and a half years. March 1, 1880, he received a post-graduate degree from Bellevue Hospital Medical College, New York, and in 1881 he located at Fostoria, where he has been in active practice ever since. Dr. Norris was married, September 20, 1882, to Anna B., daughter of Robert Middaugh, of Canton, Ohio. Politically the Doctor is a Republican. He is an active member of the Masonic fraternity.

JOHN F. O'BRIEN, dentist, Fostoria, was born in London Township, this county, July 4, 1855, son of Thomas and Margaret (McCarty) O'Brien, natives of Ireland, who settled in Loudon Township, this county, in May, 1851, clearing and improving a farm on which they resided up to 1870, when they removed to Fostoria. Here Thomas O'Brien engaged in railroad contracting, and built and graded a part of the Ohio Central, Baltimore & Ohio, and New York, Chicago & St. Louis Railroads; he died in May, 1878, at the age of sixty-nine years. Of his twelve children, nine attained maturity: James, Ellen (Mrs. George Emerine, deceased), Mary (Mrs. Alvin Starns), Patrick W., Margaret (wife of Rev. Thomas Parker), Kate (Mrs. O. V. Wood), Thomas and Terrence (twins), and John F. Our subject was reared in Loudon Township, and educated in the Union Schools of Fostoria. In 1876 he began the study of dentistry in the office of Dr. T. K. Williams, of Fostoria, with whom he remained fifteen months, when Dr. Williams died and he then conducted the business thereafter for one year. In 1878 he entered the Ohio Dental College, at Cincinnati, and in 1879 received a diploma from the State Board of Dental Examiners, and in April of the same year, began the practice of dentistry with W. P. Howell, with whom he has been associated to the present time. From a careful and thorough study of dentistry Dr. O'Brien has attained a thorough knowledge of his profession and bears the reputation of being a skillful and superior operator.

EPHRAIM J. PADGHAM, book-keeper, Fostoria, was born in Tenterden, county of Kent, England, June 10, 1828, son of John and Mary A. Padgham. He was reared and educated in his native land and there married, December 25, 1850, Susannah, daughter of William and Sophia Boorman, by whom he had four children, one of whom survives, Elizabeth Jane. This wife died in 1856 and our subject was again married in 1857, this time to Mrs. Eliza Johnson, widow of Samuel Johnson and daughter of Michael and Caroline Longernecker, of this county, by whom he has two children: Silas S. and Zoa D. Mr. Padgham came to America in 1853 and located in Fostoria, Ohio, where he clerked in the grain warehouse of Foster & Co. and was associated with the firm for several years. He was the first agent for the United States Express Company at this place, and (also the first ticket acid freight agent -nor the Fremont

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& Indiana Railroad, which position he filled for nearly twenty years. This rail road changed its name four times while he was agent. Mr. Padgham was then appointed agent for the Columbus & Toledo Railroad and served two years. He then formed a partnership with John P. Warner and conducted a grist-mill for two years. He then engaged as book-keeper for the Fostoria spoke and bending factory, a position he now occupies. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a Republican in politics, and at present is serving his third term as member of the city council.

ABRAHAM PETER (deceased) was born in Bindersheim, Palatinate Frankenthal, Kingdom of Bavaria, Germany, February 5, 1821, son of Abraham and Barbara (Shobach) Peter, who came to America in 1840 and settled in London Township, this county. Our subject was reared and educated in Germany and came with his parents to this country when nineteen years of age. December 24, 1843, he married Mary A., daughter of John and Elizabeth (Smilsmer) Vesper, who settled in Loudon Township in 1840, and by this union there were thirteen children, of whom nine survive: Elizabeth (Mrs. John Romig), Margaret (Mrs. Henry Reis), Mary (Mrs. Andrew Herbert), Louisa (Mrs. Ephraim Stahl), Charlotte (Mrs. Abraham Fruth), John A., Jacob, Philip and Sarah. After his marriage Mr. Peter engaged in agriculture on a rented farm for five years. In 1848 he purchased a fine farm of 175 acres on Sections 16 and 21, on which he made many improvements, residing there most of the time until 1883, when he retired from farming and moved to Fostoria. In 1852 he went to California and again in 1854, and while there engaged in stock buying and mining. He made these trips there overland, returning by water. He died in Fostoria May 7, 1883, at the age of silty-two years. Though he started in life a poor boy, by industry, frugality and economy he accumulated a fine property. Mr. Peter was widely known iii Fostoria and surrounding country as an upright, honest citizen. He was a respected and worthy member of the Masonic fraternity. In politics he was a Democrat.

JOHN PETER, farmer, P. O. Fostoria, was born in Bavaria, Germany, May 13, 1830, son of Abraham and Barbara (Shobach) Peter, who came to America in 1840 and settled in Loudon Township, this county, on eighty acres of land now owned by E. Kinney, former of whom died in Big Spring Township in 1871., in his eighty-first year, latter in 1840, eleven weeks after her arrival in this country. They had a family of nine children: Philip; Abraham, deceased; Catherine, Mrs. Nicholas Findel; Margaret, deceased; Maria, Mrs. Jacob Heiserman; Civilla, deceased; Barbara, Mrs. Abraham Rinebold; John: Charlotte, Mrs. Adam Helfrick. Our subject was reared in Loudon Township, this county, and lived at home with his father until he was twenty-three years old. He then rented the old homestead for seven years; in 1860 he moved to Henry County, Ohio, where he remained four years; returned to Loudon Township in 1865 and purchased the old homestead, living here four. years, and in 1869 purchased the farm of 150 acres he now occupies, fifty-five acres of which he has cleared himself, making all the improvements in buildings. April 7, 1854, Mr. Peter married Margaret, daughter of Jacob Helfrick, of Loudon Township, and by this union has