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J. H. KUHLMAN, an energetic young farmer of Portage township, is a native of Wood county; born September 25, 1868, in Freedom township, about a mile and a half northwest of Pemberville, and was reared to manhood about a mile and a half south of that city. The birth of his father, Fred W. Kuhlman, occurred in West Kilver, Herford, Prussia, November 2, 1833, and in Germany he wedded Anna M. Nolte, a native of that country born May 25, 1832. In July, 1867, they started for the New World, accompanied by their two children - Kate and Mary. In the Fatherland Mr. Kuhlman had always worked as a common laborer, so that on his arrival here he had no capital, and his first , home in the county was a small house which he rented of Casper Buschman, a large land owner. J. H. Nolte, a maternal uncle of our subject, had come to the United States before the Rebellion, and during that war was drafter on two different occasions, each time hiring a substitute. He also earned the money which brought Mr. Kuhlman and his family from New York City to Toledo, Ohio. They were seven weeks in crossing the ocean, and on landing were without means to carry them farther on their journey.

After remaining a short time in Toledo, the father then engaged work as a farm hand near Pemberville, but later removed his family to Freedom township, where he rented land. in 1887 he purchased fifty acres of land in Section 2, Portage township, the place on which our subject now resides. There the father passed away May 1, 1894, and was laid by the side of his wife his wife in Rochester cemetery. Her death had occurred March 5. 1893. They were highly respected people, and members of the Lutheran Church. The family consisted of the following children: Kate, a dressmaker, of Toledo, Ohio; Mary, who died in childhood; J. H., whose name opens this sketch; Anna at home; and Henry and Frederick H., who die infancy.

Our subject was educated in both the English and German languages, and has remained upon the home farm during his entire life, with the exception of two years spent in Toledo, Ohio. Since his father's death he has had charge of the homestead, and. besides general farming, devotes considerable attention to stock-raising, in which he is a meeting with excellent success. He has prospered in his undertakings, and is destined to become one of the substantial farmers of Portage township, as well as one of the leading and representative citizens. His political support is usually given the Democratic party, though he is not bound by party ties, and in 1895 he was elected assessor of his township.

W. M. WICKHAM is president of the Champion Oil Company, which was established in 1894, and began operations in Freedom township, Wood county, near, the Sandusky county line, where they have opened up two wells that are still flowing. Five men compose the company., S. P. Hathaway being secretary-treasurer. On coming to Wood county, in June, 1893, our subject located at Luckey, where he served as agent for the Toledo & Ohio Central railroad, and also dealt quite extensively in grain and stock. Previous to this. time he had been employed by the same road for three years at McCutchenville, Wyandot Co., Ohio.

Mr Wickham is a native of Ohio, born in Crawford county, in 1858, and is a son of Willard and Phoebe (Pennington) Wickham, the former a native of New York, the latter of Virginia. In 1836, the father had located in Crawford county, where he was married, and where he still resides, a widower, his wife having

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died there in 1889. Seven of their ten children are still living. namely: G. W., of Crawford county, who there enlisted in 1861 in the 123rd O. V. I., and after a three-years' service, he became a veteran of the same company and regiment; Mrs. Maggie Hoffman, of Crawford county; M. W., who belonged to the one-hundred-days' service during the Rebellion and now makes his home in Crawford county; Anson, of Bucyrus, Ohio; Mrs. Mary Banks, of Crawford county; W. H., a physician and surgeon of Sycamore, Wyandot Co., Ohio;. and. W. M.

After attending the schools of Crawford county, our subject took a scientific course in the Otterbein University at Westerville, Ohio where he was graduated in June, 1883, and then began teaching in his native county. He was afterward employed in the graded schools of Melmore, Seneca county, and Deunquat, Wyandot county, being for about fifteen years a teacher in those three counties. For a time he then studied law at Bucyrus, Ohio, but as his health began to fail, he secured a position as traveling salesman in Indiana, Illinois, and Ohio. Not liking that business. however, he learned telegraphy at Sycamore, Ohio, in the office of the Toledo & Ohio Central railroad, he was employed until coming to Luckey, in June 1893. In 1895, in his native county, he was married to Miss Florence Biggs, who was born in Wyandot county, and is a daughter of John and Emily (Longwell) Biggs, the former a native of Maryland, and the latter of New Jersey, but in this State they were married, and became early settlers of Wyandot county. The father died in Traverse City, City, Mich., in 1895, at the age of seventy-two years and there his widow still resides. In 1883, Mr. Wickham served as class, president at Westerville, Ohio and has ever taken an active interest in educational matters. Socially, he holds membership with Blendon Lodge, F. and A. M.

SILAS POWELL, a worthy representative of the agricultural interests of Henry township, was born March 6, 1857, in Eagle township, Hancock Co., Ohio. His father, Ben Powell, was a native of Pennsylvania, whence when a child of four years he was brought to Ohio, and was reared and educated in Eagle township, Hancock county. He is now living on a farm of eighty acres there. His father, Daniel Powell, had entered a large tract of land from the government, and when his son Ben grew to manhood gave him the eighty-acre tract. The latter was married in Hancock county, to Mary Jane England, a. native of Fairfield county, Ohio. They had children as follows: Lewis, a farmer of Hancock county; Mary Jane, at home; Martin who died in 1892; Sarah Ellen, wife of Jacob Crossley, of Hancock county; Charles who died in 1894; Amanda, wife of Thomas Fox, of Hancock county; Idella, wife of Roy Nepper., of Hancock county; and Silas.

The subject of this sketch was educated in the district schools near his home, and was reared as a farmer, but has followed both black-smithing and carpentering, having learned both pursuits without aid. At the time of his marriage he located on a farm in his native county, which he operated until coming to Wood county in November 1885. Having sold his other property he here bought eighty acres of land in Section 31, Henry township, of which all but ten acres was covered with timber. At the present time there are only eight acres unimproved, He has tiled and fenced the place, planted a good orchard, erected a comfortable home, and now has one of the finely-developed farms of Wood county.

In Hancock county, Mr. Powell, was joined in wedlock, December 26, 1882, with Miss Clara Loy, who was born in Eagle township, Hancock county, August 17, 1862. Three children grace this union: Melvin Ray, Cora and Hazel. Mr. Mr. Powell is a Democrat, and takes an active part in political affairs. He is now serving as trustee, which position he was elected in the spring of 1893; socially, he is connected with the Knights of Pythias, of Hoytville. He is well known throughout the locality, where his many excellencies of character, and his sterling worth, have gained for him high regard.

ISAAC ZIMMERMAN. Many of the leading citizens of this county have served their country during the dark days of the Rebellion, making a record honorable and glorious. One of these brave " boys" is now a farmer of Portage township, and is highly respected as a representative of one of the pioneer families of Wood county. He was born in Webster township; December 25, 1843, and is a son of William and Isabel (Householder) Zimmerman, the former a native of Virginia, and the latter of Ohio. From Pennsylvania the father came to the Buckeye State, becoming an early settler of Webster township; Wood county, but he and his wife have bot passed away.

Until his enlistment in the Union army, Isaac Zimmerman remained under the parental roof, securing his education in the district schools of Webster township, and by one term's attendance

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at a select school taught by Alfred Kelley. On July 10, 1863, he became a member of Company L, 2nd O.H.A. and from Camp Dennison went to Cleveland, Ohio, where he was assigned to his regiment The first active engagement in which he participated was at Strawberry Plains, and from that time he remained with his command continuously until the close of hostilities. He was discharged at Nashville, Tenn., August 23, 1865, after which he returned to Wood county and began business for himself as a farm hand. In September, 1868, in Webster township, Mr. Zimmerman was married to Miss Hulda Tefft, who was born in Bloom township, Wood county, April 1, 1848, one of the family of eight children - four sons and four daughters--born to William and Jane (Baird) Tefft. Her father owned and operated a sawmill in this county. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Zimmerman; Cora, who became the wife of J. E. Shinew, and died in Center township, Wood county: a daughter who died in infancy; and Asher and Charles, both at home

For a time Mr. Zimmerman rented land in his native township. and then purchased fifty acres of timberland, in Section 9, Center township, the improvements, consisting of only log buildings. Although he secured the land on easy terms, it required considerable effort to meet the payments, as the land was all wild. He later owned another farm in Center township, in Section 34; but in 1890 he removed to his present place, which constitutes fifty-nine acres of rich and arable land in Section 6, Portage township. He has made many improvements upon the farm, and is numbered among the well-to-do farmers and best citizens of the community. He has always led an honest, honorable life, is ever ready to extend a helping hand to the needy, and is held in deservedly high repute by all in the township. Until 1884 he was a Republican in politics, but now is a strong supporter of the Peoples party. With Wiley Post G. A. R., of Bowling Green, Ohio, he holds membership.

FRED J. MATZINGER, a prominent lumber dealer of Perrysburg, enjoys the distinction of being the youngest man now conducting an inpendent business of any magnitude there. He is a native of that town, born October 5, 1872.

Our subject's father, the late Joseph Matzinger, came from Switzerland at the age of twenty- two, and after making an extensive prospecting tour settled in Perrysburg, where he opened a furniture factory; which he carried on until his death 1873. He was a devout Methodist in religious faith, and in politics he was a stanch Democrat, never failing to show an intelligent interest in all matters affecting the welfare of his adopted country. He married Miss Amelia Eberly, a native of Perrysburg, who survives him, with their only child, our subject, Fred J. Matzinger received an excellent education in his early youth, supplementing his studies in the public school with a course at Cleary College, Ypsilanti, Mich., where he was graduated in 1889. He then obtained employment at Jackson, Mich., in a sash, door and blind factory, and familiarized himself with the lumber business in general. On January 22, 1894, he established himself in business in his native town, opening a lumber yard, where he has already developed an extensive trade, He is a member of the Masonic fraternity; in politics is a Republican and is one of the leaders among the young men of the community, his early demonstrated ability and energy giving him influence unusual for one of his years.

ELIAS HANELY is one of the most genial and wholesouled men of Wood county and in Section 34, Lake township has built up a fine homestead. His tastes have always inclined him to agricultural pursuits, and he has been quite successful in his life work. A native of Lancaster county, Penn., he was born September 30, 1817, at the home of his parents, Michael and Susanna (Stoner) Hanely, who were born in the same county, the former in 1793, and the latter in 1795. There they were reared and married, and in 1830 brought their family to Stark county, Ohio, where the father opened up a farm in the midst of the wilderness, on which he died in 1865. The mother's death occurred in Defiance county, Ohio, in 1884. Our subject was the eldest in their family; of the others, we have record of the following: Moses, who, for many years resided in Richland county, Ohio, where he died in 1893; John, who died in Stark county, in 1861; Jonas, a resident of Troy township, Wood county; and Andrew, who makes his home in Defiance county.

When thirteen years of age, Elias Hanely accompanied his parents to Ohio, and, in Stark county, completed his education, which was begun in Pennsylvania. There he remained until 1846, the year of his arrival in Wood county, locating in Lake township, when the nearest market was at Perrysburg and purchased 160 acres of wild land covered with dense forest. He battled bravely for a number of years with the elements of a new soil, and, looking upon

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his possession to-day, it is hardly necessary to state that he has made good use of his time, and been remarkably fortunate. The land has been brought under a high state of cultivation, and yields rich harvests in abundance. In Ashland county, Ohio, in 1844. Mr. Hanely was married Miss Susanna Shriner, a native of Stark county, where her parents, John and Mary (Hoover) Shriner, located in 1829. They were born in Pennsylvania, and passed their last days in Ashland county, this State. The home to which our subject brought his wife in this county was a log house; but there they passed many happy days. For forty-seven years they traveled life's journey together, sharing in its joys and sorrows, adversity and prosperity; but in June, 1891, the loving wife was called to her final home. Of their union were born the following children: (1) Mary Ann is the wife of Joseph Crago, of Lake township; (2) Samuel married Elizabeth Myers, by whom he has eleven children-- William, Albert, Libbie, Laura, Elias; Bertha, Pearl Mary, Walter, Herman and Stella; (3) Andrew wedded Caroline Crago, and they have five children - Roland, Grover, Bessie, Eddie and Chester; (4) Fiana is the wife of Samuel Baker, of Lake township, and they have one child now, living - Alice; (5) John, also a resident of Lake township, married Sabine Schwemley, and to them have been born three children Dora, Clarence, and Frances.

For over half a century Mr. Hanely has been a resident of Wood county, during which time he has watched with interest the wonderful changes that have taken place, and assisted materially in its development. He is now probably, the oldest settler in Lake township, where he has gained many warm friends, and all respect and honor him for his sterling worth. In religious faith he is a member of the Lutheran Church of Stony Ridge. He has been supervisor, and has served as trustee of the township, and, in politics, he votes independently.

WILLIAM CARIS, a representative, self-made farmer, of Portage township, is an Ohioan by birth, having first seen the light January 17, 1829, in Brown township, Carroll county.

The parents of our subject, John and Susannah (Baughman) Caris, were both from Northumberland county, Penn., and in pioneer days migrated to Ohio, where they passed the remainder of their useful lives. In 1849 they settled in Liberty township, Crawford county, where the father purchased 120 acres of partially improved land, and he died on that farm at the age of seventy-five years, Mrs, Caris. living to the advanced age of ninety-five. They had a family of ten children. William being the second youngest. During his youth he attended the primitive log schools then in vogue, with their rude benches and other simple appliances, and he approves heartily of the numerous improvements that have been made in the public-school system. He was thoroughly trained to agriculture on the home farm, and lived with his parents up to the age of thirty-three years. In 1850 he was married, in Crawford county, Ohio, to Miss Catherine Heckard, and ten years later removed to Portage township, Wood county, on land which he had bought and paid for two years previously. The farm consisted of eighty acres of swampy ground lying in Section 34, the nearest road on the east at that time being two and one-half miles distant and, on the west, three miles distant. He cut the first road to his farm, which was then all in the woods, and he was obliged to cut away enough trees to make room for his dwelling, a plank house. It took three yoke of oxen to haul their household goods from Jerry City. Mr. Canis at once set to work to improve this land, and he has drained it and brought it to high state of cultivation, working incessantly to convert the place into a comfortable poverty. He has erected every building that stands on the place, and has reason to be proud of its thrifty appearance and general air of neatness and prosperity, In spite of the many years of hard labor which he has devoted to farming, Mr. Canis a well-preserved man, and he has won the esteem of all by his industry and uprightness.

To William and Catharine Caris were born children as follows: Eliza (Mrs. Christ Aumaugher) of Portage township; Elizabeth (Mrs. William Dusler) of Liberty township; Oliver, who died at the age of six years; Daniel, who died at the age of twenty-three years; Susan (Mrs. John Tippit) of Portage; Philip, of Portage township: and Jane (Mrs. Lincoln Wickard), of Jerry City. The mother of these was called to her long home February 12, 1894, and for his second wife Mr. Caris wedded Mrs. Sarah (FayIor) Soule, widow of C. C. Soul; she is native of Richland county, Ohio, daughter of John and Sarah (Pritchard) Faylor, who came to Wood county when she was only a child. Our subject is a Republican in political sentiment. He has been an active man in his community, and has served faithfully as trustee and supervisor of his township, for over twenty-five years as director of District No. 6, and, for a number of

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years as clerk of the district. In religious connection he is a member of the Liberal U. B. Church.

H. H. LEEDY. Among the agriculturists of Wood county who are numbered among Ohio's native sons is this gentleman, whose birth occurred in Knox county, August 21, 1848, his parents being Jacob and Susanna (Bostater) Leedy. His father was a native of Bedford county, Penn., and, during his boyhood accompanied his parents to Knox county, where the grandfather Abraham Leedy, purchased land, and had, at the time of his death 800 acres of very rich land. Jacob Leedy succeeded his father on this place, and there lived until removing to Hancock county, Ohio, in the early 50s. He purchased 120 acres of land six miles from Fostoria, and later added seventy-five acres, which be continued to cultivate until his death, October 20, 1872. His widow is now living with her family. The family record is as follows: Aaron, who died in infancy; Ezra,. who, married Alice Need, and is living on the old homestead; H. E.; Lavinia, who became the wife of George Ruch, and died at West Independence, Ohio; Mary, wife of Abraham Bowers, of. West Independence; Elijah, who wedded Mary Crocker, and is living on the old homestead in Hancock county, and Byron, who married Ella Bowers and makes his home in Independence, Ohio. Mr. Leedy, of this review, was a child of seven summers when he went with his parents to Hancock county. There he attended school until he had attained, his majority, after which he worked on his father's farm until his marriage. On the 13th of June 1872, in Seneca county, Ohio,. Mr. Leedy was joined in wedlock with Mary J. Lawhead, who was born in that county July 28, 1851, and is a daughter of James W. of James W. and Catherine (Diebley) Lawhead, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the later of Canton, Ohio. They were married in Hancock county, and afterward removed to Seneca county, where the father purchased 120 acres of land, also 120 acres near Freeport, Ohio. His death occurred about 1888, and that of his wife July 21, 1891. The former had one son by a first marriage - William. The children of the second marriage were Ella, Lewis and Elmer.

Mr. and Mrs. Leedy began their domestic life on a rented farm, and in the spring of 1874 removed to Seneca county, where they also. rented land until the fall of 1878. In February, 1879, they emigrated to Missouri, and rented a farm of 120 acres in Vernon county, where they remained until October following, when they returned to Ohio. Mrs. Leedy and her children accomplished the journey by rail, while Mr. Leedy drove across the country, reaching Independence, Ohio, on the 5th of November, 1879. He there rented a house until the following spring, when he purchased his present farm of 160 acres in Liberty township. Wood county, removing his family to this place April 12, 1880. He has since carried on agricultural pursuits. and is a substantial farmer.

Mr. and Mrs. Leedy have three children-Clara. born September 16, 1873; May, born October 9, 1881; and Verda Cleo born July 2, 1891. The parents are active workers and faithful members of the German Baptist Church. In politics, Mr. Leedy is a Democrat. He has served as township trustee for nine years, and assessor for one term, discharging his duties with credit to himself and satisfaction to all concerned.

SAMUEL SHOOK, a worthy and honored representative of the early pioneers of Wood county, is a true type of the energetic, hardy, and courageous men who actively assisted in the development of this region. Deer and other wild game had not yet fled before the advancing steps of civilization, and most of the land was still in its primitive condition. In the transformation that has taken place, he has born an important part, and is now numbered among the prominent farmers of Troy township, residing at Stony Ridge.

Born in Franklin county, Penn., in 1831, our subject is a son of John and Sarah (Koon) Shook, also natives of that county where the father carried on farming. In 1855 they game to Troy township Wood county, where the father died about 1868, and his excellent wife in 1873. Their family consisted of these children: Joseph who arrived in Troy township about 1850, was a merchant of Stony Ridge, where he died in 1892: Mrs. Ann Stoner died in that township in 1880; Catherine is the deceased wife of James McCutchen, Sr. Mrs. Polly File has also passed away; Samuel is next in order of birth: Martin is a merchant of Stony Ridge: John, a resident of Lake township, Wood county, enlisted in Troy township during the Civil War and served until its close; and Mrs. Fannie Newcomb makes her home in Seneca county, Ohio.

Our subject received the benefits of a common-school education in his native county, and was otherwise fitted for the battle of life. In 1848 he left Pennsylvania for Mansfield, Richland Co., Ohio, where he remained for a year, at the expiration of which time he located in Stoney Ridge,

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Wood county. For about ten years he was there engaged at his trades of plastering and brick, laying and from 1872 until 1882 conducted the "Empire House." He then erected a two-story brick store building, when for some eleven years he carried on the grocery business, but now devotes his entire time and attention to the cultivation and improvement of his fine farm in Troy township.
At Sylvania, Mich., in 1850, Mr. Shook married Miss. Clarissa Smith, a native of Perrysburg, Wood county, and a daughter of Joshua and Joshua and Huldah (Alger) Smith, the former born in Kingston, R. I., October 19, 1789, out reared in New York, and the latter born June 17, 1792, at Albany, N. Y., where they were married October 19, 1812. About February, 1817, the parents removed to Bellefontaine, Ohio, where they resided until coming to Perrysburg in 1830. In connection with the manufacture of brick, the father also followed farming in Wood county, and in 1835 became one the first settlers of Stony Ridge, where he died August. 16, 1858. There his wife also spent her last days, dying January, 1879. In their family were seven children: Lucy, now Mrs. Julius Blum, of Perrysburg, Ohio; Maria, who died in New York, February 10, 1817, when young girl; John Lee, who died of cholera at Stony Ridge, in 1854: Joshua. V., who makes his home in Stoney Ridge; Jacob, who died at Lemoyne, Wood county, January 1, 1865; Elizabeth, who became the wife of DeWitt Van Camp, and died at Stony Ridge in 1885; and Clarissa, wife of our subject. Two children blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs.Shook: Amos C., who wedded Frances Marsh, by whom he has four children - Agnes, Jennie, Ruby, and Lee, and resides at Stony Ridge; and Emeline, wife of Noah Bean, of Stony Ridge, by whom she has three children - George C.,Della and Ethel. Though not an active politician, Mr. Shook votes with the Democratic party as his sentiments and beliefs dictate, and has served two years both as trustee and assessor of his township, and as postmaster of Stony Ridge. He and his estimable wife are members in good standing of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and are greatly esteemed in their community, as representing the best type of its moral and social element.

WILLIAM S. BRYANT. Two qualities which are absolutely essential to success are industry and energy, and these our subject possesses in a high degree. Thus he has worked his way upward until to-day he is numbered among the substantial farmers and respected citizens of Wood county. He was born in Findlay township, Hancock county, October 18, 1857, and is a son of George W. Bryant, a native of New York, who in his boyhood accompanied his parents to Hancock county. In Richland county, Ohio, he married Isabel Kemp, and located in Findlay. During the Civil war he enlisted in the 21st O. V. I., and afterward joined the 5th Ohio Regiment. He died in the service in Louisville, Ky., of an attack of smallpox. To Mr. and Mrs. Bryant were born three children: Sarah Jane, wife of J. H. Lamb, of Henry township; George W., a farmer of Hardin county, Ohio; and William S. The mother is still living in Toledo, Ohio.

Our subject attended the public schools of Findlay until fourteen years of age, when he started out to make his own way in the world. He there learned the trade of carriage painting, which he followed some fourteen years, when, with the capital he had acquired through his own industry and frugality, he bought an interest in the business. A year later, however, he sold out, removing to Marseilles, Wyandot Co., Ohio, where he carried on a paint shop for two years. Failing health then necessitating his retirement from that business, he came to Henry township, Wood county, where he purchased forty acres of timber land that he has since transformed into a comfortable home. He afterward purchased-sixty acres additional, but now owns eighty acres, all under a high state of cultivation and improved with the accessories and conveniences of a model farm.

On October 3, 1881 Henry township, Mr. Bryant married Miss Mary Helbrick, who was born in Lancaster county, Penn.. November 1, 1856, and they have four children: Gracie, born June 17, 1882: Scott Le Roy born April 22, 1884; William,, born November 6, 1885, and died January 1889; and Ruth Jane, born September 6, 1890. Mr. Bryant is a stalwart Republican, and has served as school director for six years and supervisor for three years, but has by no means been an office seeker. He holds membership with the United Brethren Church.

W. M. AMOS is one of the leading and influential business men of Portage, carrying on a first-class meat market there. He is an enterprising and progressive citizen, and his pleasant and genial manner has won him a circle of friends, while his honorable dealing has

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Wood county his, birth having occurred in Portage township, April 25, 1861. He is one of ten children whose parents were Michael and Theresa (Brakcey) Amos. This family numbers Michael and Philip, both of whom carry on agricultural pursuits in Portage township; John and Katie, twins, who died in childhood; Anthony, a who died in childhood; Anthony, a farmer of Center township: W. M.; Charles, who carries on agricultural pursuits in Portage township; Mary, wife of Manuel Helm, of Portage township, and a son and daughter who died before the recollection of our subject.

W. M. Amos acquired his education in the district schools near his home, and was reared as a farmer boy, remaining under the parental roof and giving to his father the benefit of his services until he had attained his majority. He then assumed the management of the old home place, which he operated for nine years. His father also gave him forty acres of land in Portage township, which he afterward traded for another forty acres in the same township, paying $1,000 additional. His second farm he afterward exchanged for a tract of similar size in Portage township, and on selling this he bought eighty acres of improved land in Center township. He continued to operate all these different farms in connection with the improvement of the old homestead. In 1893, however, he sold his farming land, land, and purchased a meat market in Portage, where he has since carried on business. During the first year he was associated in partnership with Will Johnson, but, buying out his interest, has since been alone. He has a well-conducted establishment. He is a man of excellent business and executive ability, and carries forward to completion whatever he undertakes. Perseverance and energy are his chief characteristics, and have brought to him a very comfortable competence.

Mr. Amos was married in Portage township, Wood county, March 14, 1886, the lady of his choice being Miss Mima Ulis, who was born in November 27, 1868 and is a daughter of Samuel and Susan (Helm) Ulis, Five children graced this union, but Clyde and Samuel, the eldest and youngest have passed away. Those still at home are Jesse, Paul and Oscar.

A. L. POLLARD, an influential citizen of Portage township, is a native of Pennsylvania ,born May 3, 1856, in Lawrence county, son of Abner and Anna (Wymer) Pollard. The family came to Perry township, Wood county when our subject was about nine years old, and, in about 1871, settled in Portage township, at Six Points, where wherethe mother died, and the father still makes his home. Of their family A. L Pollard was the fifth in order of birth, and the eldest son.

During his boyhood Mr. Pollard attended the district schools of the home neighborhood, and also received a thorough training in agriculture, which he has followed more or less all his life. When he came to Six Points this region was still a wilderness, and the site of his persent store was wan then in the midst of a forest. He remained at home until his marriage, at that time locating on eighty acres of land at Six Points, later removing to Jerry City, in Portage township, and finally finally settling on his present place, which consists of thirty-six acres of good land at Six Points. In July, 1889, he established the mercantile business which he has ever since conducted with well-deserved success, and during his business career he has won the confidence and respect of all with whom he has come in contact for fair dealing and honest methods. He is a self made man in the true sense of the word, the comfortable property and home which he now possesses having all been acquired by his own efforts.

In March, 1880, Mr. Pollard was married to Miss Abbie Bisbee, daughter of Joseph Bisbee, and she died and was buried in Mount Zion cemetery. For his second wife our subject wedded Miss Hannah Brand, who was born in Seneca county, Ohio, daughter of Michael Brand, and six children have come to this union, as follows: Arthur L., Lucy M., Raymond, Luther (who died in infancy), Bessie, and Zella.. Mr. Pollard is a life-long Republican; and, though he takes an interest an interest in public affairs, he is not active except in school matters, being a warm friend of educations progress in every way; he has been school director in District No. 8 for some time. Socially he is a member of the K. O. T. M.. Excelsior Tent, at Prairie Depot, and he affiliated with the.. Grangers during their existence. On May t, t 892, lightning struck Mr. Pollard's barn, and destroyed $1,500 worth of property, on which there was no insurance whatever, seven horses, a large amount of grain, and a number of farming implements being consumed.,

ALFRED R. WILLIAMS, of Perrysburg, one of the most enterprising and successful young business men of Wood county, was born September 5, 1868, at Perrysburg.

His father, the late Alfred G. Williams, was one of the prominent men of the county in his day, and a leading operator in the oil fields. His mother, formerly Miss Mary Cranker, is a descendant of one of the pioneer families, and has long

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held an important place in all the social and philanthropic movements of the community. Our subject enjoyed excellent educational opportunities in his youth, his training in the public schools of Perrysburg being supplemented by study at Baldwin University, at Berea, Ohio. After leaving school he became shipping clerk for Davis Bros., of Toledo; later with Chapman & Sargent, with whom he was serving when his father died, October 17, 1892. He was then appointed administrator of the latter's estate. also the estate of Margaret Cranker, his maternal grandmother, both of which responsibilities he has managed with credit to himself and the satistfaction of all concerned. His father was one of the first operators in Cygnet oil field, and the family interests now extend from that locality to Bradner, including over forty wells. Apart from this interest, out subject is operating some twenty wells, also in Wood county, in company with other oil men, and in all his speculations he displays great sagacity and shrewdness. In February, 1895, he was appointed assignee for the O`Connor Oil Company, of Wood county.

On June 28, 1892, Mr. Williams was married to Miss Clara Chappuies who was born in Stryker, Ohio, January 1, 1869. Two children have blessed this union: Alfred R., born March 6, 1893, and Elbert J., born March 7, 1895. Mr. Williams is a Republican: is a member of the F. & A. M. and the I. O. O. F. and he and his wife are esteemed highly for their superior personal qualities. They are leaders in the best element of Perrysburg society, taking an active and influential part in the varied work of the M. E. Church, and in all worthy local movements.

ERASMUS CHAMBERS, an extensive landowner and prosperous farmer of Portage township, is a native of Ohio, born August 9, 1814, in Jefferson county, son of William and Catherine (Barrick) William Chambers father was a native of England, and came to this country in young manhood. He was the owner of a plantation and a number of slaves, and was quite wealthy, William became a farmer and settled in Ohio in pioneer days, dying in Crawford (now Wyandot) county, Ohio, in 1838, when about sixty years old. Mrs. Chambers died there December 20, 1848. There were nine children in their family- seven sons and two daughters all of whom lived to good old ages, and, though our subject was considered the delicate one of the family, he has survived them all. During his youth he received but two weeks schooling, for the country in which his parents had settled was sparsely settled, at that early day, the settlers were for the most part French, who did not give liberally to the support of the schools. They were then living in the vicinity of Louisville, Stark county. After his father's death Mr. Chambers lived with his widowed mother up to the time of her decease, In 1850, he was united in marriage, in Wyandot county, with Miss Martha Mansfield, who died in that county in 1852, leaving one child, Clara, who is now the wife of Sylvanus Newcomer, of Gratiot county, Mich. For some time after his wife's death our subject lived in Logan county, this State, and in 1869 he came to Wood county; settling in Montgomery township, where he lived until March, 1872, since which time he has had his home in. Portage township, on his present farm, which lies in Section 36. Here he has acquired a comfortable property, for which he has worked hard, and is now the owner of 215 acres of good land, besides which his wife owns eighty acres. With the exception of twelve years during which he was engaged in mercantile pursuits, he has devoted himself almost exclusively to farming, and now, in his later years, surrounded by all the comforts of life, he has no reason to regret his choice. His vitality is remarkable, and in spite of his four score years he is still an active man. When Mr. Chambers came to Wood county much of the land was still in its primitive condition, wet and swampy, and he thought at that time that " Mud " county would be a far more appropriat name.

On March 13, 1870. our subject was married to Mrs. Maria Lane, widow of William Lane, and daughter of David and Margaret (Henry) Tyson, who came to Wood county in 1847, locating in Portage township, where she has since lived; she was born November 24, 1840, in Stark county, Ohio. To this union have come children as follows: Eli P., born January 28, 1871; John F.. born September 21,1872; William H., born August 20, 1874; David S.; born September 1, 1876, and died in infancy; Urias A. born May 22, 1878: and Emma M., born December 19, 1880. Mrs. Chambers in religious connection is a member of the Dunkard Church. During his early manhood Mr Chambers was an Old line Whig, and he voted for William Henry Harrison: since the organization of the Republican party he has been one of its stanch supporters:

R. C. SANTMYER is a popular citizen of Liberty township, whose genuine worth has won him the good will and respect of many friends. Sen-

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neca county, Ohio, numbers him among her native sons, his birth occurring there October 27, 1854. His father, Christopher Santmyer, was born in Virginia, and having attained his majority, married Susan Updike, also a native of that State. Four years later they removed to Seneca county, Ohio, where the father followed farming, also carried on blacksmithing and shoe making. In 1861 in Delaware, Ohio, he enlisted in the Union army and served until the close of the war, and participated in many important battles. He afterward went to Saginaw, Mich., where he continued for a number of years, then returned to Seneca county. He is still a resident of Ohio.

Their children were John, a farmer of Hancock county, Ohio: Robert, a farmer of Bloom township; R. C., our subject; David H., of Wayne county, Ohio; and Mrs. Jane Vogelson. R. C. Santmyer was about eleven years of age when he came to Wood county with his mother, who purchased five acres of land in Bloom township, and there resided until her death. He attended the district schools and followed farming during his boyhood, earning his own livelihood from the time he was eight years of age. He was married March 12, 1882, to Miss Annie Walker, a native of Bloom township, and a daughter of John and Elisabeth (Soles) Walker.

They at once located on the farm of sixty acres which Mr. Santmyer had previously purchased. He is now living in the oldest dwelling in Wood county, it having stood for sixty-three years. Many were the hardships and difficulties they encountered in the early days, for Mrs. Santmyer suffered much from ill health; but as time has passed our subject has prospered. He has now tiled and fenced his place, planted a good orchard, and has a well-improved farm. There are five oil wells upon his land, and he adds to his income by acting as district agent for the Solid Comfort Plow Company.

Mr. and Mrs. Santmyer have had a family of three children: Carrie Emma, born April 12, 1883; Harley J., born August 29, 1886, and died July 8, 1887; and Sylvia Jane, born August 26, 1890.

Our subject was formerly an advocate of Republican principles, but is now identified with the People's party. He has served for five years as supervisor, discharging his duties with a promptness and fidelity that have won him high commendation.

FRANK WAGONER, a general merchant of Stony Ridge, was born in Lake township, Wood county, January 13, 1864 and is a son of B. and Elizabeth (Weaver) Wagoner. The father's birth occurred in Troy township, but he was reared and married in Lake township, where his wife died in 1879. In their family of seven children only two are now living: Frank, and Mrs. Nettie Korn, of Stony Ridge.

In the common schools of his native township our subject obtained his education, and at the age of fifteen went to Fort Scott, Kans., where he was he was employed for nine month after which he proceeded to White City and Parsons, same State, and then again went to Fort Scott. Returning to Ohio, he attended the academy at Fostoria for a year and on leaving that institution, again journeyed westward, this time going as far as Seattle, Wash., where he remained three months. On his return, he located at Toledo, Ohio, where for nine months he was employed, and then obtained a situation in the store which he now owns. In 1890 he began business here, and now carries a large line of groceries, crockery, boots, shoes in fact, everything found, in a first-class general store. He owns a two-story frame building 24 x 60 feet, with two additional rooms, one 12 x 60 feet, and the other 16 x 36 feet. He well deserves the liberal trade that is accorded him, and is meeting with well-merited success.

Mr, Wagoner was married at Stony Ridge, in 1892, to Miss Mary Seifert, who died in January;. 1895, leaving one child: Chester McKinley. In politics, our subject endorses the principles and policy of the Republican party, in the success of which he takes an active interest, socially, he is identified with Fort. Meigs Lodge No. 774, I. O. O. F., and the Knights of Honor.

THOMAS J. PUGH, Among the merchants and business men of Weston none is better known than the subject of this sketch. Born in Henry county, Ohio, November 13, 1871, he came to Wood county with his parents when but one year old. His education was acquired in the district school, and he afterward worked on his father's farm until reaching his majority, after which he farmed for one year on his own account. Moving into Weston he embarked in the grocery business, which rapidly increased to such an extent that he found it necessary to have assistance. He therefore, became associated with Mr. A. N. Pauff, under the firm name of Pugh & Pauff. They deal only in first-class groceries, their stock is well kept up, and they cater to the best class of people Weston.

In April, 1893, Mr. Pugh was united in marriage with Miss Maud Guyer, daughter of Daniel Guyer, and they have one child, Sylvia. Our sub-

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ject is a member of the K. of P. and the Knights of the Maccabees. In politics he is neutral. He is an enterprising, progressive young man, and possesses great business tact and ability, which has been fully demonstated by the manner in which he has overcome all obstacles and build up an enviable trade. He is genial, affable and courteous by nature and his integrity and honesty have been the means by which he has gained the confidence of all who have any business dealings with him.

ABRAHAM MERCER, whose well-spent life has won him the regard of all, is numbered among the progressive enterprising citizens who give, a hearty endorsement and active support to all enterprises calculated to prove of public benefit. He was born in Columbiana county, Ohio, July 8, 1820, and is a son of William and Charity (Pettit) Mercer. The father was born in Lancaster county, Penn., and at various times followed the trades of cooper, miller and mason.

In his native county he married Miss Pettit, who was there born July 7, 1781. After several years they removed to a farm on the banks of the Susquehanna. river, and later went to Columbiana county, Ohio, where Mr. Mercer carried on farming to some extent, but mostly followed the mason's trade. In the fall of 1834 he brought his family to Wood county, and secured 160 acres of land in Liberty township, on which he erected a log house, 16 x 20 feet. Two years later he built a frame residence, and there made his home until his death. His widow afterward returned to Pennsylvania; but while visiting in Columbiana county, she died at the home of her son Daniel, February 9, 1855. The children of this marriage were: Martha (deceased) was the wife of Andrew Pettit; George, who died in Liberty township, at the age of eighty-seven; William, who died in Portage township at the age of forty-three; Mary Ann, who became the wife of Enos Monehan, and died in Pennsylvania; Daniel, who died near Georgetown, Columbiana county; Beulah (deceased) was the wife of William Pike, of Iowa; Caleb, of Bowling Green, Ohio; Charity (deceased): Lucretia (deceased) was the wife of Henry Groves, of Liberty township;. Abraham; who died at the age of two years; and who lives in Bowling Green.

Our subject received somewhat limited educational privileges for the nearest school house was three miles distant; but through reading experience, and observation he has become a well-informed man. To farm work he devoted his energies until his marriage, which was celebrated in Liberty township January 8, 1840, Miss Harriet Elizabeth Rice becoming his wife. Born in Cattaraugus county, N. Y.; April 13, 1820, she was a daughter of Calvin and Electa (Allen) Rice, natives of the Empire State, and with her parents came to Wood county in 1935, her father and mother both dying in Liberty township.

In 1846 Mr. Mercer removed with his family to the farm which his father first purchased, taking eighty acres. He cleared the place, erected a good residence, and there carried on agricultural pursuits until about January, 1887, when he disposed of the property and removed to another farm. His wife died January 31, 1887, and the old home was therefore broken up. Of their marriage were born seven children - Charity Electa, wife of Alex Lashuay, of Bowling Green; James C., of Denver, Wood county; Charlie Allen, of Liberty township; Porterfield, of Liberty township; Wm. Marion, of Liberty township; Clinton B., of Mt. Pleasant, Isabella Co., Mich.; and Harriet Isadore, wife of Francis McIntire, of Liberty township. For a year after the death of his wife Mr. Mercer lived with his son-in-law and and then wedded Mrs: Mary A. Bacon, widow of Warren H. Bacon. In politics he is stalwart Prohibitionist and served as township treasurer for one year, while for many years he has been clerk of the school board, and a director. He holds membership with the Disciples Church, and his life been well spent. He is numbered among Wood county's honored pioneers, has witnessed much of its growth and upbuilding, and is a public-spirited, progressive citizen.

CHRISTIAN EISENMENGER. Among the well-to-do farmers and landowners in Wood county; there are a number of Germans, and our subject is a representative, thrifty and shrewd type of this class, who have everywhere been noted for their industry and sterling worth.

Mr: Eisenmenger was born in the Grand Duchy of Baden, Germany, October 6, 1839, son of Andrew and Catherine Eisenmenger, the former of whom was a saddler by trade, and also followed farming, owning twenty acres of land in Germany. In June, 1854, the family consisting of parents and four children, sailed from on the vessel "David Hoadley," there were large numbers crossing the ocean that year, passage was at a premium; so they were obliged to pay a high price. When they were only a few days out, however, the vessel struck a rock, and, being in poor condition, was obliged to turn back, reaching Southampton in eight days. Four weeks were required wherein to

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make repairs, and after the second start they were thirty-five days in reaching New York City. They at once started west, journeying by rail to to Buffalo, N. Y., then by lake vessel to Cleveland, Ohio, thence to Sandusky, and from there by rail and team to their destination, Bloomville, Seneca Co., Ohio. Mr. Eisenmenger had sold his property in Germany, and now had a little over $500 to commence life in the New World with, which he proposed to invest in land. But property was high in Seneca county, so in about six weeks they came to Wood county, arriving here in October, and he purchased sixty acres of land lying in Sections 27 and 34, Portage township, which was then almost in its primitive condition. only the higher portions of the land being cleared. A log cabin and barn were the only buildings that adorned the place, and the family began life here in true pioneer style, living in the midst of a forest where game abounded and civilization had as yet made little impression. They also suffered the hardships which settlers in such a country must undergo, and in addition to the ordinary inconveniences and privations of life in an unsettled region, the fever and ague caused by the swampiness of the land impaired their health and rendered them almost unfit for work. But, nevertheless, they carried on the work of clearing until a fine farm had been made out of the wilderness, and the family were installed in a comfortable home. From the age of forty-five until his death, Mr. Eisenmenger had poor health; and he passed from earth in December, 1861 , after a lingering illness. Mrs. Eisenmenger survived until March, 1881, and both are buried in the Mennonite cemetery; they were members of the Evangelical Protestant Church. Mr. Eisenmenger opposed slavery, but took no part in politics, the constant wrangling over public affairs in those days destroying any inclination he might have had for such matters, There were four children in his family, viz: Catherine, now the widow of John Hachtel, of St. Joseph county, Ind.; Henry, who died in Portage township, in 1865; Christian; and Christopher, who lives in Joseph county, Ind: (he served over three years in the Civil war member of Company F, 72nd O. V. I.).

Our subject attended the schools of the Fatherland, and received as greater part of his education there, for he only had two weeks' schooling after he came to this country. However, he learned to read and write English in that short time, his teacher being Orin Hays, who taught the "Red School" in District No. 7, Portage township. He was reared to farming on the pioneer farm of his parents, and has been on the home place all his life. After his father's death his older brother came home, conducting the farm until his decease in 1865, after which our subject and his brother Henry carried on the work. The latter, however, soon left home, and since that time Mr Eisenmenger has been in charge of the place alone, buying out the others after his mother's death. He has added to the place until it now comprises 170 acres of fertile, productive land, from which by good management and systematic care, he derives a good income. He is as good a business man as he is a farmer; but in all his dealings he has gained an enviable reputation for honesty and there is no more highly respected citizen in the township.

On May 10, 1868, Mr. Eisenmenger was married, in Portage township, to Miss Catherine Hardman, a native of Stark county, Ohio, who was born about 1835, daughter of George Hardman, a native of Pennsylvania. Out subject and wife are both members of the German Church, in which he is an active worker, at present serving as trustee. Formerly he was a Democrat in politics, but he usually votes for the candidate whom he thinks best fitted for office without regard to party lines.

G. F. PEABODY, M. D., one of the leading physicians and surgeons of Wood county, and a registered pharmacist, has since January, 1892, engaged le practice at Luckey. On his arrival he he also bought a building and a stock of drugs, conducting business along that line until his place was destroyed by fire in July, 1893, after which in company with, L. H. Rolfes, he erected a two-story brick building. In this new store he carries a full and complete line of drugs, and he also engages in the in the practice of his profession.

The Doctor was born in Mulliken, Mich., February 12, 1867, and is a son of Sylvanus and Jane E. (Compton) Peabody, also natives of Michigan. At an early day the grandfather, William Peabody, Sr., entered a tract of government land in Eaton county, on a part of which now stands the village of Mulliken. Later our subject's father her settled on this land, and, in connection with his agricultural pursuits, he now engages in the real-estate business. Our subject is the fourth in order of birth in the family of six children, the others being William, of Ionia county, Mich ; Elbert, of Eaton county, Mich.; Hiram, a farmer of Mulliken, Eaton county; Fred, chief clerk of and a stockholder in the Valley City Milling Co., of Grand Rapids, Mich.; and Charles

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who is attending Medical College in Toledo, Ohio.

The elementary education of the Doctor was acquired in the common schools of his native county, and he completed the literary course in Portland (Mich.) High School; was a matriculate of College of Medicine in 1888, after which he entered Toledo Medical College, where he was graduated in the class of 1890. He began practice in Sunfield, Eaton county, where he remained until coming to Luckey in 1892. Here he has secured a large and lucrative practice, he has been a very successful in his treatment, and has had four small-pox cases, in which he triumphed over that dread disease. He was registered a pharmacist by examination, in 1893.

At Toledo, Ohio, February 2, 1892, Dr. At Toledo, Ohio, February 2, 1892, Dr. Peabody was married to Miss Katie H. Dachsteiner, a native of Fort Wayne, Ind., and a daughter of John W. and Caroline (Kersting) Dachsteiner, who were born in Germany, and now make their home in Toledo, where the father is foreman of the upholstering department of the Wabash car shops. To the Doctor and his wife was born October 29, 1892, a daughter, named Hazel F.

Dr. Peabody uses his right of franchise in support the men and measures of the Democratic party, was appointed postmaster at Luckey, July 1, 1893, but after two years he resigned in favor of the present incumbent. For two years he has served as health officer of Webster township. In his social relations he is connected with Freedom Lodge No. 723, I. O. O. F. He owns fifty-two acres of land, one-half mile south of Luckey, which he rents.

Mrs. Peabody was born December 23,1866, at Fort Wayne, Ind., and was educated at the Broadway High School, and at the Davis Business College, in the same city. She is a member of the Lutheran Church at Luckey.

DAVID F. BIEHLER, is numbered among the enterprising business men of Hammansburg, where he is engaged in general merchandising, and the community numbers him among its representative citizens. He was born in Maryland, October 1, 1852, son of Andrew Biehler, a native of Germany who in that country married Miss Catherine Wetly. Some years later, with his and two children, he sailed to America from France, landing in New York. For a short time he made his home in Maryland, and then removed to Tiffin, Seneca Co., Ohio, where, later he purchased forty acres of land and devoted his time and energies to agricultural pursuits. His death occurred April 27, 1876, in Tiffin, and his

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county, each entering land, Jacob in Section 34, John in Section 33, and in the following spring they moved to the farm. Here they lived in Indian huts until a log house could be erected, and our subject's mother assisted in sawing the logs for their first home. At that time there were but few other families in the township, although they were fortunate in having some neighbors. near by. Game was plentiful - deer, turkeys and bears in abundance and the larders of the settlers were well provided at all times with venison. Here the brothers and their families encountered all the obstacles presented by the frowning haunts of wild animals, and here they experienced all the hardships incident to clearing up homes in the wilderness, their labors, however, being repaid in course of time with comfortable homes, smiling fields of grain and well-stocked barns. On their respective farms Jacob and John Leathers passed the rest of their busy lives, Jacob dying January 6, 1879, his wife on May 11, 1877, and John passing away March 12, 1851, aged forty-five years, his wife Eliza on July 10, 1855, at the age of forty-seven. They were all pioneer members of the Methodist Church in Bloom township.

The children born to Jacob and Mary (Ewing) Leathers were as follows: William (the first white child born in Bloom township), who met with a tragic death in a gristmill at Eagleville, Ohio (his widow now lives in Bloomdale, Ohio); Elizabeth A., who died unmarried, May 14, 1870; John, who was member of Company H, 149th Regiment O. V. I., and died December 20, 1863, at Knoxville, Tenn.; Wesley, the subject proper of these lines; Lavina (now Mrs. George Franks), residing at Baltimore. Ohio; and Benton, of Hammansburg, Wood county. The father of this family was an extensive land owner, at the time of his death possessing several hundred acres; was in all his undertakings, especially agriculture, a highly successful man, ranking among the leading citizens of the township, where, as well be seen, he passed the best years of his life. He was a Whig and Republican consecutively exhibiting considerable interest in the success of his party, although not an active politician.

Wesley Leathers whose name introduces this sketch, was reared after the manner of farmer boys of his day, receiving his education at the old log house known as the "Leathers School," which stood on the home farms and is now known as "District School No. 8, Bloom Township." To this primitive seminary of learning our subject used, in winter time, to take his "shining morning face " through the intricacies of the then dense woods many a day almost impassable, owing to the depth of the snow. Prior to his marriage, he passed the greater part of his time at home, assisting the labors of the farm, the comparative monotony of which was broken by a three-months' service in the army during the war of the Rebellion. In May, 1864, he went to the front as a member Company E; 144th Regiment O. V. I. which was sent to Wilmington, Del., where our subject passed the greater part of his term of service, in the government stables; he was discharged in August 1864, and returned home.

On August 23, 1862, in Cass township, Hancock Co., Ohio, he married Miss Minerva C. Dustman, a native of Mahoning county, Ohio, and daughter of Josiah and Sarah (Gress) Dustman. For several years they made their home in the old log cabin on his father's farm, where he followed agricultural pursuits. In September 1890, Mr. Leathers commenced interesting himself in the banking business and in the fall of 1890, he moved from Wood county to McComb, Hancock county. where he established the People's Bank of McComb, of which he has been president ever since.

To Mr. and Mrs. Leathers have been born children as follows: Hester now wife of E. S. Crawford, of McComb, Ohio; John J. and Benton W., farmers of Bloom township, Wood county; Edward, a merchant of McComb, Ohio; Lula, at home: Pearl, who died young; Ervin, a clerk in McComb; and Ellis and Anna at home. Mr. Leathers is the owner of 320 acres of very valuable land in Bloom township, including the first pre-emptions made by his father, over sixty years ago. He is a successful business man, shrewd, careful, and thoroughly conservative, as is evidenced by the flourishing condition of the monetary institution which he in a large degree controls, not to speak of his own phenomenal success. He is also prominently identified with the Palmer Oil Company. In his political preferences he is a stanch supporter of the Republican party, and in social life he is as a representative self-made man, enjoying, along with his family, the respect and esteem of a wide circle of friends and acquaintances.

JULIUS DUCAT, deceased, had many excellencies of character, which gained him the high regard of friends and neighbors. He was born in Michigan, near the Ohio line, in 1834, and is a son of Joseph and Victoria (Jacob) Ducat. When a youth of sixteen he came with his parents to

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Wood county, the father settling upon an eighty acre farm in Plain township, which he afterward sold, removing to Liberty township. Later he became a resident of Ottawa county, Ohio, where his wife died. With his children he returned to Liberty township, and purchases twenty acres of land, on which the town of Ducat now stands named in his honor.

Our subject early became familiar with all the arduous duties of developing wild land, and, owing to the very limited circumstances of his parents, he received no school privileges, for he had to aid in the work on the farm. He worked by the month as a farm hand for $15, and has often worked for forty cents per day. Thus from humble surroundings he rose, and for his success he deserved great credit.

Mr. Ducat was married, in 1863, to Victoria Granger, and to them were born four children.: Daniel L., of Rudolph, Ohio; Exea, a farmer of Milton township; John, an agriculturist of Liberty township; and one who died in infancy: The mother died in 1870, and the following year Mr. Ducat was joined in wedlock, in Toledo, Ohio, with Elizabeth Minnower. They also had had four child - Alec and Samuel, both of Liberty, Adolph, at home; and one who died in infancy

At the time of his first marriage, Mr. Ducat located on a ten-acre tract of land in Liberty township, which he had previously purchased. This he later sold and bought twenty acres; which was afterward disposed of and his capital was invested in twenty acres owned by him at the time of his death. This property, however, he had doubled in extent, making forty acres of rich land. There are five oil wells on the farm, one of which is the largest ever struck in the county, it being known as the big Ducat well. It was sold, the first time, by Clarence Potter for $10,000, and a short time afterward for $14,000. In the fall of 1888, Mr. Ducat erected the present residence and hospitable home, which is the resort of many friends. In politics he was a Democrat, and was an active member of the Roman Catholic Church, of Bowling Green. His death occurred

BENTON W. LEATHERS. To farming and stock-raising this gentleman devotes his energies, and his capable business methods are winning him prosperity. The record of his life will undoubtedly prove of interest to his friends in this county, who are many. He was born in Bloom township, June 1, 1868, on the old Leathers homestead, the third child and second son of Wesley and Minerva (Dustman) Leathers. He attended school in District No. 8, his first teacher being Leona Taylor; also pursued his studies in Bairdstown, while his parents were living at that place. He has always made farming his life-work, and now has charge of a part of the old homestead, operating 160 acres of land, which placed under a high state of cultivation. He also engages in stock dealing in connection with his brother, John J. He is a prosperous young farmer of excellent business ability, and is meeting with success in his undertakings.

On March 3, 1888, Mr. Leathers was united in marriage, in Eagleville, to Miss Olive L. Emerson, who was born January 28, 1870, in Bloom township, the eldest daughter of E. P. and Catherine (Smalley) Leathers. They have three children,. Bessie E. born September 12, 1889, Park E., born January 28, 1892; and Naomi born February 1, 1894. Mr. Leathers gives his political support to the Republican party, and has served as school director in his district. He is a member of Bloomdale Lodge, Knights of Pythias, and his wife is a charter member of Jewel Temple. Rathbone Sisters, of Bloomdale. She belongs to the Christian Church of Eagleville.

ROBERT DIGBY, JR. The subject of this notice is certainly to be considered not only one of the enterprising farmers of Washington township, but one of its respected and honored citizens, and a man of more than ordinary ability. He was born in Erie county, Ohio, August 15, 1856, and is a son of Robert and Eliza (Ray) Digby. The father's birth occurred in England, October 2, 1828, and he crossed the Atlantic to the United States in 1851, locating is New York State.

Our subject spent his boyhood mostly in attendance at the district schools in Washington township. and aiding in the duties of the home farm. He remained under the parental roof until he had attained his majority, when he started out in life for himself, for eleven years renting a part of the land belonging to his father. He then purchased forty acres across the road from his present place, which he improved and cultivated some four years, at the expiration of which time he bought the eighty acres which comprises his present fine farm. He has tiled and drained his place, ten acres, of which he has cleared, built barns, erected a windmill which cost $100, and bored a well at a cost of $60. For his land he paid $72 per acre. On February 22, 1881, he was married to Miss Susan Shoaff, a daughter of Reuben Shoaff, and they have two children, Elmer, born May 8, 1882: and Bertie, born October 8, 1885. Our subject is a stanch

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and reliable member of the Republican party, and he and his family attend Washington Chapel of the United Brethren denomination.

S. C. REARICK has been a resident of Jerry City for a number of years, and is one of the most useful, progressive citizens of that place. He is a native of Lewistown, Mifflin Co., Penn., born April 20 1853, son of Oliver P. Rearick who was born May 10, 1830, and was married, in Laurelton, Union Co., Penn., to Martha Corl, born July 10, 1833. Mr. Rearick was a weaver, and followed that trade up to the breaking out of the Civil war, when he became a member of Company E, 53rd P. V. I., and he died August 8, 1862, at David's island of fever. He left five children - three sons and two daughters.

Our subject was but a boy at the time of his father's death, and from that time until he was fourteen years old, lived and worked with his uncle, George Schnure, who was a tanner near Laurelton, He then entered the Soldiers' Orphan School, at McAllisterville, Penn., which his brothers and sisters also entered at the proper ages, Thomas, George and Katy Rearick being three of the first six pupils at that school. Before entering this institution S. C. Rearick had but limited educational privileges, but during the time he remained there he acquired a good practical training. When sixteen years of age he left age he left the school and commenced life for himself, engaging in farm labor in White Deer township, Union Co., Penn., receiving $8 per month. Soon afterward he began to learn harness making in Lewisburg, Penn., serving an apprenticeship of three years, during which he received his board and $25 per year for two years, and $45 and board the third year. He was now a full-fledged tradesman, and in July, 1873, he came to Fremont, Ohio, and engaged to work for William Schroeder, a harness maker. He earned the money for the trip by working on the railroad receiving $1.85 per day, and he followed his trade in Fremont two years, when he was compelled to abandon it on account of ill health. Having no other trade, he worked at wood chopping for farmers in the vicinity of Fremont until the winter of 1875, when he went to Bloomville, Seneca county, and hired out to Robert Reed, a distant relative, for whom he did farm work two years. In 1878 he commenced work with J. D. Wilsey & Son, of Bloomville, who were engaged in the manufacture of boat oars, and with them he continued some twelve years, removing with them with them to Jerry City, and remaining with them until their removal to Savannah, Ga. He received flattering inducements to accompany them thither, but declined, and he has since found employment in the oil business, having for over four years been pumper for the Standard Oil Company.

In the fall of 1879 Mr. Rearick's mother and sister, Katy, came to Bloomville, Ohio, to live with him, and later removed with him to Jerry City, where the mother passed away March 29, 1890; she was laid to rest in Jerry City cemetery. They made a most comfortable, pleasant home here, which Mrs Rearick and his sister still occupy: He is one of Jerry City's most active men, and has served. his fellow citizens in several town offices, having been city councilman one term, and street commissioner one term, and he is at present a member of the board of education, of which body he is treasurer. He is a Republican in political sentiment, but is not bound by party lines, supporting the best men irrespective of party, and is a friend of the Prohibition cause. In religious connection he is a Methodist and an active worker in the Church, in which he has been class-leader, trustee and steward, still serving the last named office. He has been superintendent of the Sabbath-school for the past seven years. Mr. Rearick is an intelligent wide-awake member of the community, taking an interest in all measures which he considers beneficial to the general welfare. He has won an honorable position for himself among his fellow townsmen, and is comfortably situated in life as a result of continuous hard work.

W. J. JEWELL, an energetic young business man of Tontogany, was born November 12, 1861, on a farm in Plain township where his parents still reside. His father, Samuel Jewell was a native of Virginia. and came to Wood county in early times, and married Miss Louisa Johnson.

The subject of this sketch received an elementary education in the old Hampton school house in his neighborhood,. and was early trained by his parents to those habits of industry which have proven the basis of his success in life, In 1887 he was married to Miss Phoebe Gross, who was born in Indiana, January 2, 1861, and they have two children Guy and Beatrice. After his marriage Mr. Jewell settled on a farm in Plain township, which he cultivated until 1890, with the exception of a few years during which he was engaged in pumping oil. Having the, income from forty acres of land, and four good oil wells, he retired from business and came to Tontoganyto reside. But, belonging to that class of men who cannot exist in idleness, he soon determined to engage in business; accordingly, on April 5,

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1895, he opened a meat market, where his energy and ability have a profitable field of action If past gives any reliable promise of his future, Mr. Jewell will some time rank among the leading business men of the county. He is interested in every movement tending to the general welfare, and is a prominent member of the Plain Congregational Church.

FRED SWARTZ, a prominent and influential farmer of Lake township, located on his present farm in 1867, at that time purchasing sixty-seven acres of timber land, to which he has since added and now has a fine tract of 143 acres under a high state of cultivation. He is a man of great energy and perseverance, and has effected many improvements upon his farm since taking possession, including the erecting of a good frame residence in 1876. He was at once recognized as a valued addition to the community, a man possessing excellent judgement, and giving support and encouragement and encouragement to those enterprises calculated for the general welfare.

Mr. Swartz is a native of Medina county, Ohio, born in Liverpool township, January 10, 1841, and is a son of Frederick and Fredericka (Henning) Swartz, whose births occurred in Germany.

They were married in Medina county, where the father engaged in farming, and in1855 removed to Troy township, Wood county, where his death occurred in 1886, and his wife died two years later. To them were born eight children: Fred, subject of this review; .Jacob, who enlisted in the same company and same. regiment at the same place as our subject, and died at Bowling Green, Ky., November 30, 1862; John a resident of Perrysburg township, Wood county; Lucien, who makes his home in the same township; Andrew, of Webster township, Wood county; Mrs. Carrie Puse, who died in Perrysburg township, in 1875; Mrs. Kate Frantz, of Troy township; and Mrs Christine Puse, of Perrysburg township.

Our subject spent his boyhood in Medina county, where he attended the common schools, and in 1855 accompanied his parents to Troy township, where he made his home until locating upon his present farm. His entire life was devoted to agricultural pursuits, and he has been very successful in his chosen calling. In 1862, at Stony Ridge, Troy township, Mr. Swartz joined Company K. 111th O. V. I., for three years' service and was mustered into service at Toledo, where he was assigned to the 23d Army Corps, under Gen. Sherman. At the battle of Resaca he was wounded by a shell, and was taken to the field hospital, from which he was sent to Nashville, and later to Camp Dennison Hospital at Cincinnati, Ohio, where he received an honorable discharge in 1865, and returned to his home. In Liverpool township, Medina county, in 1865, Mr. Swartz married Miss Louise Nollenberger, a native of that county, of which father was one of the early pioneers; he died in Medina county, and his wife in Wood county, about 1883. Nine children have been born of the union of our subject and his wife, namely William, who is married and resides in Lucas county, Ohio; Fred, a resident of the same county; Frank, of Toledo, Ohio; Isaac;. George; John; Albert; Arthur; and Katie.

Mr. Swartz votes the straight Republican ticket, and takes an active interest in politics, but cares nothing for public office. He is prominently identified with J. B. Wlford Post No. 153, G. A. R., of Perrysburg. Both he and his estimable wife are consistent members of the Lutheran Church, are foremost in all good works, and are highly respected in the community. They have witnessed the many changes that have taken place in the county since their arrival, and their support to all interests for the public welfare and advancement. and advancement.

JOHN MARSHALL was born in Salem township,.Columbiana Co., Ohio, June 16, 1831, and is a son of Joseph and Mary (Sterling) Marshall, both natives of Mercer county; Ohio. The father, who was a farmer and teamster by occupation, enlisted in the war of 1812, but was never called out to active service. From his native county he removed to Columbiana county, where he made his home until 1854, when he took up his residence in Mount Blanchard, Hancock Co., Ohio. There he died in the in the spring of 1856, at the age of fifty-eight years. His wife survived him twenty-one years, passing away at the advanced age of eighty- six. Their children were: Joseph, who is living with our subject; Thomas, who served in the 186th O. V. I. and died at the same age; sixty-two; Michael, who died at the same age, Elisha, who died at the age of twenty-five; John; Firmon, who died in Delaware, Iowa. at the age of forty-eight; and Mary E., who died at the age of seven years.

On the old home farm John Marshall was reared, and, at the age of eighteen, he began learning the wagon-maker's trade at Franklin Square, Columbiana Co., Ohio, following that pursuit, in connection with farming. While in Columbiana county he built the largest team wagon that was ever made in this State. The

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rear wheels stood six feet high, the front wheels four feet, and twenty-two barrels of flour could be laid in the bottom of the bed. Our subject was a young man of twenty-three when he went with his parents to Hancock county. He remained at home until after the death of his father, supporting the family from his meager wages, which mounted to about fifty cents per day. In Orange township, Hancock county, October 19, 1856, Mr. Marshall married Martha Castor, then living in Delaware township, Hancock county, but a native of Columbian county, born October 8, 1830. Her parents were John and Jane (Sterling) Castor. Mr. and Mrs. Marshall located in Delaware township, Hancock county, where they lived until 1861, removing then to Wyandot county, Ohio. In 1864 our subject enlisted in Company I, 175th O. V. I., and participated in the hotly contested battle of Franklin, where the regiment lost 106 men. He was then in all the engagements until after the battle of Nashville, and was honorably discharged at Camp Dennison, Ohio, in July, 1865.

Mr Marshall then continued his residence in Wyandot county until 1873, when he purchased and located in 120 acres of partially improved land in Henry township, Wood county. Afterward he sold forty acres, and later the remaining amount; then in 1881, purchased sixty-four acres. Hammansburg, where he has since resided. On this tract he has erected five residences, and also owns three houses and lots in North Baltimore. In his business undertakings he has prospered, owing to his enterprise, indomitable perseverance and sound judgement, until today a well-deserved success is his. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Marshall was blessed with three children, two of whom - Louisa Demaris and Emma Jane - are deceased; the surviving daughter is Isa Milda, wife of Artemus Apple, of Henry township. In politics Mr. Marshall is a Republican, and has served as assessor for one year, while for about five years he has been township trustee. He has always been faithful to the duties of both public and private life, and his sterling integrity and many excellent traits of character have won him high esteem.

HENRY MITTER. Germany has sent many substantial citizens to this country, and a number of them settling in farming communities, have become well-to-do men, their native thrift and industry causing them to succeed where others would fail. Our subject was born in the Fatherland January 30, 1828, in Baden, son of Andrew Mitter, who was a farmer in fair circumstances, and had a family of seven children, as follows: Henry, whose name introduces this sketch; Andrew, a millwright, of Holgate, Ohio; Lena (widow of John Armbruster), also of Holgate: Rosa (Mrs. Jacob Armbruster); of Bryan, Ohio; Joseph, of Fremont, Ohio; Mary, Mrs. Fred Benner, of Ottawa county, Ohio; and Fred, who enlisted in the 72nd O. V. I. served his term of service; received an honorable discharge, and boarded a boat to return home, after which nothing was ever heard of him. Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Mitter came to America at the same time our subject emigrated, settling in Sandusky county, Ohio, where they died.

Our subject received a good education in his native language, but he has acquired all his knowledge of English by practical experience. His father being a farmer, he was reared to agricultural pursuits, but after his younger brothers became old enough to help at home he commenced to work in a distillery, continuing at that work for four years in Germany. When twenty-five years of age he was married, in his native country, to Miss Rosa Baysinger, and two children were born to them there: Rosa, now the wife of Samuel Lifler, of Napoleon, Ohio, and Robert, a farmer of Sandusky county, Ohio. In May, 1859, the family sailed. from Bremen, Germany, and, after a voyage of thirty-four days, landed in this country, coming directly to Fremont, Sandusky Co., Ohio, where friends of theirs were living. A tract of land, comprising eighty acres, was purchased. for which they paid $1,800, although. only a small potato patch of four acres had been cleared, and the rest was still new. In the fall of 1882, our subject came to Six Points, Wood county, where he has since resided, for the last couple of years living retired from active labor. In his early life he was a very robust man, and he worked hard, but he never kept any comforts from his family to accumulate money or property. Since their arrival in this country children have been added to the family circle as follows; Charles F., who lives at home; Emma (now Mrs. John C. Michael), of Portage township; George, at home: Mary E.; and Andrew, at home. There were others who died young. Mr. and Mrs. Mitter are members of the Lutheran Church. and are highly respected in' the community. Mr. Mitter is a Democrat in politics.

J. A. McCRORY a well-known, leading citizen Cygnet, and a representative of one of the pioneer families of Wood county, was born in Liberty township, February 17, 1861. His father, James McCrory, was a native of Pennsyl-

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ania, and came to Wood county, with his father, Samuel McCrory, locating in Henry township, where he was reared to manhood. Here, for his second wife, he wedded Mary A. Mercer, and they became the parents of the following children who grew to adult age: William P., Samuel J., Jennie, our subject, Mary A., Horace A. and Albert O. The mother is now a widow, her husband having died in October 1885. By both marriages Mr. McCrory became the father of fourteen children. Through most of his life he followed farming; but for a time was engaged in merchandising in the village of Portage. He was five feet, eight inches in height, heavy set, but rheumatism seized him in later years, and he died at the age of fifty-seven, his remains being interred in Mercer cemetery, Liberty township. In politics he was a Democrat, and besides other positions he held the office of justice of the peace, was well read on legal matters, though entirely a self-educated man, had a good knowledge of the Scriptures, and could argue a question very; ably.. For the last three years of his life he was a total abstainer though he had always been used to drinking, his father having been a tavern keeper, and always kept liquor in his home.

Our subject attended the district schools of Liberty township, and remained under the parental roof until seventeen years of age, when he began teaming, and he also operated rented land for a time. Later, he was employed as a barber in McComb, Bowling Green and Jerry City, Ohio but when the oil boom struck Wood county, he again took up teaming, removing to Cygnet, in June 1889. He owned several teams, and hired many more, and continued operations along the line until 1890, when he began the livery business, in connection with which he also carried on a barber shop for a short time: but in a fire destroyed his barn, on which there was no insurance. On March 10, 1894, he was again burned out, but the following summer he build his present bar, 50 x 100 feet, and a shed, 16 x 50 feet, the largest establishments of the kind in the county. His well-conducted livery has grown to extensive proportions, and he also handles buggies and harness. On January 31, , 1886, in Portage, he married Miss C. Myers, a native of Henry township, and daughter of Abraham Myers, a farmer. Two children blessed this union--Maud F., and Claude O.

Mr. McCrory takes an active part in political voting with the Democratic party, but has declined office with the exception of three years when he served as deputy marshal. He is a charter member of .Knights of Pythias Lodge No. 384, of Cygnet, and was connected with the Grange during its existence. Public-spirited to a great degree, he takes a commendable interest in everything tending to the advancement and welfare of his town and county being foremost in the support of any improvements.

JOHN L. LOVEL, To a student of human nature there is nothing of greater interest. than to examine into the life and character of a self-made man, who realizing that success is not a matter of family connections, or the result of fortunate circumstances, steadily, and persistently works his way upward, and uses the obstacles which he meets in his career as stepping stones to something higher. To this class belongs Mr. Lovel, and with pleasure we present our readers his life record.

Born in Wheatfield township. Niagara Co. , N. Y. September 8, 1828, he is a son of James and Annie (Meeker) Lovel both natives of the Empire State, the mother having been born in Tioga county The father was a farmer by occupation, and also took contracts to get out ship timber.. He served in the war of 1812, and after ward located within nine miles of Niagara Falls, where he lived for about twenty years. He then removed to Hancock county, Ohio, purchasing eighty . acres of land in Pleasant township, where he carried on agricultural pursuits until his death, which occurred in 1846, at the age of sixty years. His wife died at North Baltimore, Wood county, in 1882, at the age of ninety-two years. In their family were the following named children - Joseph, a carpenter of McComb Ohio, Simeon, who died of Cholera in Cincinnati, in 1855; Ann,. widow of Jacob Grubb, of North Baltimore, Ohio; Diana Adelia, widow of John Pickens, who died in the Union army, during the Civil. war: Harrison, who died in childhood ; John L. of this sketch, and William J., who went to Illinois in 1877, and still resides there.

Our subject received only such educational privileges as the district schools afforded. In his youth he learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed for several years, and also worked in a sawmill owned by his brother. He was fourteen years of age, when with the family, he located in Hancock county, Ohio. He had aided in driving the teams and stock from the old home in New York: and then gave his assistance to his father in the development and improvement of the farm. At the age of twenty he left home and in company with his brother; Joseph, embarked in the sawmill business in Pleasant township, Hancock county, carrying on operations along

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that line for about seven years when he sold his interest and turned his attention to farming. He purchased land in the same township, and continued its cultivation until after the breaking out of the Civil war.

In 1861 Mr. Lovel responded to the country's call for troops, and followed the ensign of Company H, 21st O. V. I.. He remained with that commend for about seventeen months, and then re-enlisted, in the 39th O. V. I., with which he continued until the close of the war. He was captured by the enemy in South Carolina, while on the March to the Sea, but on a rainy night succeeded in making his escape, and again reached the Union lines. He participated in many a hotly contested battle, and made for himself an honorable war record. When the war was over, he was mustered out at Louisville, and returned to his old home in Hancock county.

After a short time, however, Mr. Lovel removed to Paulding county, Ohio, and later to Michigan, where he purchased a tract of pine land for $2.50 per acre. A year later he sold it for $12 per acre and subsequently resided for a short a short period in Paulding county, Ohio. His next home was in Whiteside county, Ill. There he rented a farm until 1884, when he returned to the Buckeye State and purchased a tile and brick factory, and also sixty acres of land. He now does an extensive business in the manufacture of tile and brick, being associated in this enterprise with his son, C. D. He has cleared all of his land, and now has a profitable and highly improved farm; as well as one of the leading and paying industries of Wood county.

About 1852 Mr. Lovel was united in marriage with Mrs. Almira Brooks, who died in Blanchard township, Putnam Co., Ohio. They had six children - William, who resides in Illinois; Mrs Margaret Hipkins, of Putnam county; Amarilla, wife of Elias Agner, of Putnam county; Calvin D., at home; Ellsworth, a merchant of McComb, Ohio and James, who is living in Leipsic, Putnam county. For his second wife, Mr. Lovel chose Isabel Woodcock, widow of Ben Beal, who was killed in the war. Of the second union there was one daughter, Isabel. In politics Mr. Lovel is a stalwart Republican and he is one of the esteemed citizens of the community.

ELMER E. STEARNS, a well known and popular educator of Wood county, where he is also employed in the oil business, makes his home in Bays. He is a native of this county, his birth having occurred in Perry township, November 10, 1862. His paternal grandparents were Justus and Sarah A (Davis) Stearns. The former, who was born in Pennsylvania, on coming to Ohio located in Richland county, and the year 1833 witnessed his arrival in Montgomery township, Wood county. For a time, in later years, he kept a tavern at West Millgrove; but his last days were passed at Bowling Green, where his death occurred September 8, 1888. John Stearns, the father of our subject, was born in Montgomery township, July 6, 1839, was reared in that and Perry townships and in Crawford county, Ohio, wedded Elizabeth Myers, a native of that county. After two years residence in Perry township the parents removed to Plain township, but now make their home in Bowling Green. They reared four sons, of whom our subject is the eldest, the others being: William S., who is married and resides in Liberty township; Charles, who is married and lives in Milton township, Wood county; and Frank J., who is also married and operates the old homestead farm in Plain township.

In the latter township Elmer E. Stearns passed the days of his boyhood and youth, being educated in its school and at Weston. He completed his scholastic training in Wooster, Ohio, after which he began teaching, being first employed in Plain township in 1884. He has also taught in Milton township; but for the past three years he has followed the profession in Liberty township to the entire satisfaction of all concerned.

In 1886, in Plain township, Mr. Stearns was united in marriage with Miss Naomi C. Buvinger, who was born in Dayton, Ohio, and is a daughter of William and Hattie (Goodenough) Buvinger, natives of England, who on coming to Ohio, located in Huron county, whence they came to Wood county, and now make their home at Bowling Green. To our subject and his wife has been born a daughter--Flora B. Mrs. Stearns is now engaged in teaching at Bays, which profession she has followed for the past ten years in Wood county. Both she and her husband are numbered among the progressive and capable educators of the county, and, being themselves excellent scholars, have the power of imparting their knowledge to others.

On political questions. Mr. Stearns affiliates with the Republican party socially, he belongs to Weston Lodge No. 81, I. O. O. F., while he and his wife are identified with the Daughters of Rebekah, and religiously, hold membership with the Disciples Church, at Bowling Green. They are earnest Christian people, and take a prominent part in everything that will promote the

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moral and educational as well as the material welfare of the county.

GEORGE EITING was born in Wittenbreg, Germany, September 30, 1846, and is the only child of George and Maria (Bender) Eiting, also native of that locality. The father was born in 1815, and was a farmer by occupation. When young he also learned the trade of soap-making. His death occurred in his native land, in 1871, and his wife passed away in 1873.

Out subject attended school between the ages of six and fourteen years, and then assisted his father on the farm until twenty-three years of age, when he joined the Germany army and participated in the battle of Villers, with the Ninth Battery of Artillery, in the war between France and. His army service lasted five months. At his native place, in November, 1871, Mr. Eiting married Miss Barbara Kimmick, who was born in Wittenberg, May 3, 1844. They lived on the old homestead until September, 1880 then with their four children : sailed for America taking passage on the steamer "Rhine," at Bremen. Twelve days later they landed at New York, and came direct to Wood county. Mr. Eiting brought with him $3,000, and in Henry township purchased eighty acres of land, which he at once began to clear and improve. This was no easy task, but as time passed he tiled his land, has transformed into rich and fertile fields, and now has a very valuable and productive place. He is therefore ranked among the leading and substantial farmers of the community. His political support is given the Democracy, while in religious faith he is a Lutheran. To him and his wife have been born seven children namely; George, who works in the oil fields; and Barbara, William, Clara, and Charles,

DANIEL L. KUNKLER. Among the influential and prominent citizens of Bloom township, who for their present prosperous condition to their own industry and energy, and who have raised have raised themselves in the world from a state of comparative penury to that of ease and comfort, is the gentleman of whom this sketch is written. He is a native of Ohio, born in Biglick Hancock county, June 5, 1852.

His father, Louis Kunkler, was native of Nassau, Germany, and when nine years age brought by his father. Daniel Kunkler, to the United States, locating in Pennsylvania where they remained about a year, when they home was near McCutchenville, Wyandot Co., Ohio, where they remained two years, when they located on a forty-acre tract of land in Big Spring township, Seneca Co., Ohio becoming early settlers of that locality. In Biglick township, Hancock county, Louis Kunkler wedded Miss Arabel Baker, who was born on Walnut creek, Fairfield Co., Ohio. April 5, 1827, and was a daughter of Jacob and Susana (Bright) Baker. Three children graced this union: Lucinda; born January 25, 1848, is the wife of W. K. Frederick, of Jerry City, Ohio Susan, born July 19, 1850, became the wife of Charles Frederick, and on his death married J. A. Bailey, of Bloom township; Daniel L. being the youngest. The father died October 19, 1852, at the age of twenty-nine years, and was buried at McCutchenville, Ohio. In politics he was a Democrat. The widow was left with the three children, the eldest being not yet five years old she afterward became the wife of Freed Dille, by who she had one son, Squire S., now of Pemberville, Ohio: she makes her home with our subject, and is sixty-nine years old.

At the age of seven Daniel L. Kunkler went to live with his paternal grandfather, with whom he remained until sixteen years of age, attending the schools of the neighborhood in Big Springs township, Seneca county, as the opportunity afforded. On the death of his wife in 1869, at the age of eight-two years, the grandfather disposed of his property in that county, and went to live with members of his family in Steuben county, Ind., where he died in the fall of the same year, at the age of eighty-four. Our subject was thus thrown upon his own resources, and, in order to gain a livelihood, worked for farmers until the age of twenty-one, when he learned the carpenter's trade under the direction of Levi Kistler; of Bairdstown, Wood county, with whom he remained for five years. In Bloom township, March 25, 1877. he was married, by Squire W. S. Richard, to Lucy A. Bailey, who was born June 11, 1858, daughter of Jacob Bailey, a farmer of that locality. They became the parents of two children: Ervy, born January 19, 1878: and Edna B., born June 6, 1888. The son is an excellent, intelligent young man, and when only fifteen, years old passed the required examination to obtain a teacher's certificate, but as he was too young to teach, it was two years later before he had charge of a school. The mother was called to her final rest October 26, 1894, and was buried in Baird cemetery, Bloom township.

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For four years after his marriage Mr. Kunkler continued to follow his trade at Bairdstown, and then went to Jerry City, where he was employed at the same occupation, or at anything by which he could gain an honest dollar. In the former place he had owned a house and lot, which he traded for eleven acres near Jerry City, giving $400, and this property he later sold for $1000. During his two years residence in that place, he also, worked in the stave factory. In June, 1882, he purchased forty acres in Section 22, Bloom township, going in debt $800 for the same, and to that farm removed the following March. An old log house and stable stood upon the place, and his stock consisted of one-hog and one cow; but he at once entered upon the cultivation of his land erected a comfortable home and a substantial barn, and has now one of the best improved places of the vicinity. He is progressive in his methods, and deserves great credit for the success he has achieved. In political opinions he sides with the Democrats, and has been elected school director, constable, and trustee (three years) in a Republican township, which speaks well for is ability and popularity socially, he has been a member of the I. O. O. F. since January, 1874, belonging to Vitus Lodge No. 602, I. O. O. F., of Jerry City, of which he is a charter member.

J. A. BAILEY an honored farmer of Bloom township, is the eldest son of Jacob and Elisabeth (Simon) Bailey, and was born in Bloom Center, February 28, 1849. His boyhood and youth he passed in the manner of most farmer boys, attending the district schools through the winter, while in summer he worked on the home farm. At the age of twenty-two years he was married in Bloom township to Susan Frederick a native of Seneca county, Ohio, and a daughter of Anthony and Rhoda Frederick. He then located upon a part of the old homestead, which he operated some five years. There his wife died August 5, 1875, and her remains were interred in Weaver cemetery, Bloom township. She left four children: Florence, now Mrs. Charles Wirick, of Bloom township; Clarissa, wife Gideon Dennis, of the same township; and Savilla and Drusilla (twins) the former of whom died at the age of six months, the latter now making her home with her grandfather, Frederick, at Bloom Center.

After the death of his wife. Mr. Bailey broke up housekeeping, and for some time made his home with his parents, during which period he traveled extensively over, Iowa, Illinois and Missouri. When a young man of eighteen he had visited Whiteside county, Ill., and also some localities in Iowa. On April 17, 1884, he was again married, this time to Mrs. Susan Frederick, widow of Charles Frederick, and daughter of Lewis Kunkler. Her birth occurred in Hancock county, Ohio, July 19, 1850, and, her father having died when she was about two years old, she became an inmate of her grandfather (Daniel Kunkler's) home. She remained with him until sixteen years of age when she came to Wood county, where she worked out as a domestic, though she considered her home was with her mother, then the wife of Solomon Frederick, of Bloom township, Two children have been born to our subject and his wife: Hollis H., born September 22, 1885; and Frank, born February 17, 1891.

After his second marriage, Mr. Bailey lived for two years at Bloom Canter, during which time he operated his father's farm; but in February, 1886, he removed to Section 3, Bloom township, where he purchase thirty-five acres and has built thereon a comfortable home, otherwise making many good improvements. Politically Mr. Bailey was for several years a Democrat, but is not is not at present bound by party ties, reserving the privilege of selecting his candidate to regardless of party affiliations. In 1893 he was elected, on the Democratic ticket, trustee of Bloom township; also served as school director of District No. 2 for several years, and has been supervisor of his district. He now holds membership with Vitus Lodge No. 602, I. O. O. F., of Jerry City, though he formerly belonged Bloom Lodge No. 406, of Bloomdale. An honest, hard-working man; his upright life has won the confidence of all with whom he has come in contact.

JAMES F. LONG, a successful. farmer and enterprising citizen of Portage township, was born in Ashland county, Ohio, August 17, 1845, and is the son of James and Matilda (Markeley) Long. James Long, Sr., was born near Philadelphia. His His father (also named James) was a native of Ireland, and came to Wayne county, Ohio at an early period, dying there and leaving his family, consisting of ten children, comfortably situated. The father of our subject was the eldest child. He attended school only three months, but but obtained a fair education by studying at home. In Ashland county he married Miss Matilda Markeley, a native of that county, and a daughter of Peter Markeley, and early pioneer. After his marriage Mr. Long went to farming on a small place in Ashland county. He had left

WOOD COUNTY, OHIO.- 1339

home when fifteen years old, incurring the displeasure of his father, who left him out of his will. About 1856, Mr. and Mrs. Long moved to Holmes township, Crawford county, on a farm of twenty acres. His wife died in 1858, and for his second wife he wedded Miss Sophia Shaeffer, who still lives in Sandusky county. Mr. Long died in Holmes township, at the .age of fifty-six years. The children born to Mr. Long by his first wife were: Lavina, who married (1) Levi Helm, and (2) Peter Reed, and died in Portage township; Joseph died when seven years old; John is a farmer in Center township; Sarah J. is now Mrs. Noah Helm, of Liberty township; James F. is our subject. The children by Mr. Long's second wife, who lived to maturity, were: Susan who married and died in Wyandot county; Delilah, now Mrs. John Kryder, of Wyandot county; Nancy married Abram Feil, of Sandusky county; Philip lives in Sandusky county, as does also William. Mr. Long was a Democrat, and took great intereat in the success of his party. He did not aspire to office, but held some minor positions. The mother of our subject is buried in.. Wayne county.

Our subject, attended the Ashland Academy at Ashland, Ohio, which was at that time an Old pioneer school. He began going there when but four and a half years old, and attended regularly until eleven, when his parents moved to Crawford county, and his career at school was suddenly closed as he never went again. He worked at home for his parents until his enlistment. August 12, 1862, in Company L, 10th O.V. C. at Mansfield. The company went to Cleveland, where the organization was completed, and it was then sent south to Murfreesboro, Tenn., its first engagement being Snow Hill. Mr. Long participated in all of the engagements with his regiment until he received a wound, March 10, 1865., at "Kilpatrick's Surprise," or Solomon's Grove, N. C., when he was sent to the Wilmington Hospital, and after a few days, was taken down Cape Fear river to Smithland, where he where he remained until July 3, 1865, coming at that time to Cleveland, where he arrived about the time the rest of his regiment was discharge, August 10, 1865.

Mr. Long went to Crawford county, and worked at chopping wood, he and his brother cutting 2,450 cords of four-foot wood in four winters. In October, 1865 he bought eighty acres of timber land in Center township, paying on it $300, which he had saved from his army pay. In Crawford county he worked until the fall of 1869, when he came to Wood county and made some improvements on his land there afterward selling it, and buying forty acres in Section 3, Portage township, in the spring of 1871. This was all timber land but one and one-half acres, and he at once began improving it. On October 10, 1871, he was married in Bowling Green, to Miss Frances J. Underwood, who was born in Liberty township a daughter of William Underwood. She was a teacher, and taught nine terms in the district schools. This union resulted in five children: Elmer J., Aiden, Estelle, James F., Jr., and Iona, all of whom are at home. Mrs. Long died September 15, 1891., and was buried in the Portage cemetery. Mr. Longs second wife was Mrs. Henry Rees, whose maiden name was Cludey. In 1892 Mr. Long erected a good, substantial residence, where he and his family are now living.

Although his father was a Democratic, and he lives in a Democratic neighborhood, Mr. Long is a stanch Republican and has always been a hard worker for the success of his party, but never asked for office. He is an extensive reader and observer, has a retentive memory, and is well posted on all the issues of the day. He is a man of natural intelligence a shrewd business man, and is regarded as one of the representative farmers of Portage township.

D. J. SHOEMAKER is the genial and popular proprietor of a leading grocery store in Dowling, and belongs to that class of energetic, wide-awake business men to whom a community owes its prosperity and advancement. He was born in Findlay, Ohio, June 20, 1851. His father, Henry Shoemaker, was a native of Virginia, and, on leaving the Old Dominion, took up his residence in Fairfield county, Ohio, where he purchased 160 acres of land, there making his home until 1864, when he sold and removed to Perrysburg township, buying a farm of 240 acres, which he cultivated until his death. He was married in Fairfield county, to Cynthia Roberts, and they became the parents of eleven children: George, a farmer of southern Kansas, now serving as county commissioner; Mary; wife of Alex Beard: Uritta, wife of David Beard; Susan wife of Melvin Parker; D. J..: Wallace; Byron; Tissie, wife of Myron Shannon; Owen, who died while repulsing a Rebel charge during the Rebellion; and two who died in childhood. The mother of this family is now living with our subject.

The subject proper of this review was reared on a farm, and for a number of years carried on agricultural pursuits. He then engaged in contracting and building for sixteen years, and after-

1340 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO.

ward purchased fifty acres of land in Perrysburg township, and later, eighty acres. On selling that property, he bought 120 acres near Deshler, which he still owns and operates. In 1888, he embarked in the grocery trade, and now has a well appointed establishment while from the public he receives a liberal patronage. On February 23, 1873, Mr. Shoemaker was united in marriage with Mary Miekle, who was born in Scotch Ridge, Ohio, and three children Scotch Ridge, Ohio, and three children graced their union; Wilbur, Ober; and Johnnie (deceased). The parents are active members of and prominent workers in the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics Mr. Shoemaker is a stalwart Republican, and for a number of years has served a school director: socially, he is connected with Freedom Lodge No. 723, I. O. O. F., of Pemberville. His success is an indication of persistent effort, earnest application and capable management, and he holds high rank in business circles.

AMOS COY; The representatives of the farming and fruit-growing interests of Ross township acknowledge this gentleman as one of the most important factors who aided in bringing this section of the county to its present enviable condition. He was born in Ross township, in 1859, and is a son of George and Rebecca (Packer) Coy. His father was a native of Oxfordshire, England, and at the age of fourteen was brought by his father, Ezra Coy, to the United States.

They first located in Stark county, Ohio, but in the " 30s" became residents of Ross township, Wood county, where Ezra Coy died. In that township, the son was married, and located upon the farm in Section 31, where out subject now resides. There his death occurred in March,. 1893, and his wife who had long preceded him to the other world, died in1874. Four children were born to them: Mrs. Ann Blondin, of Oregon township, Lucas Co., Ohio; Mrs. Ellen Cowles, of Lake township, Wood county; and Henry Rideout, of Ross township; and Amos, of this sketch. The early life of Mr. Coy was spent after the manner of most farmer's sons, in a comparatively uneventful manner during which he attended the common schools, and made himself useful around the homestead as his years increased: He now owns a good sixty acre farm, highly cultivated and improved on which he is successfully engaged in general farming and fruit-growing.

In 1887, in Lucas county, Ohio, was solemnized the marriage of Mr. Coy and Miss Emma Wright who was born in Ross township, this county, where her father, James Wright, had located at an early day, but is now engaged in gardening at East Toledo. Two children grace
this union-George and Alma..

To give proper care to his business interests, absorbs the greater portion of his time, but as a public-spirited citizen, he pauses between his pressing duties to interest himself in the welfare of his native county, and assists, as opportunity offers, in the enterprises tending to its development and progress. He votes the straight Democratic ticket, but has steadily declined to become an office-seeker, convinced that he can serve the interests of the public fully as well by sustaining the principles of the party, and allowing other men to enjoy the offices.

FREDRICK AMOS, a retired pioneer farmer of Portage township, was born February 8, 1831, in Bavaria, Germany, and is a son of Michael Amos. The family, which consisted of parents and seven children - Michael, Catherine, Adam, George, Fredrick, Margaret and Jacob, the two latter being twins---sailed from Le Havre De Grace, France, in 1837, for America, securing passage The voyage was a rough one and many storms were encountered, during one of which the lightning ran down the mainmast, killing three sailors, and just missing three kegs of powder.. Ninety days were spent on the ocean before they reached New York. The parents and the family' came west to New Lisbon, Ohio, by way of the Hudson river and railroad to Buffalo, thence by lake to Cleveland, there taking wagons. The family remained in New Lisbon six months, during which time the, father went to Wood county and bought eighty acres of land in Sections 1, Portage township and then returned for his wife and children. In February 1838, they drove from New Lisbon to Wood county, having the use of an ox-team part of the way. Three-quarters of an acre had been cleared, and a small shanty, 12 x 15 feet, had been erected, which was their first home in the wilderness. To add to their other troubles Mr. Amos died in August, 1838, and his wife was left with seven children, a stranger in a strange land. The nearest neighbor lived one-half mile dostamt, and the next nearest, five miles. Mrs. Amos was without money and, although the children helped all they could, they were to young to be of much use. They were obliged to trade the clothes brought from Germany for provisions and nettles were cooked for greens. Besides all this, the children suffered from ague. After a few

WOOD COUNTY, OHIO.- 1341

years of varying fortune the crops began to thrive, but suffered much from the ravages of wild animals.

Fredrick, our subject, was thirteen years old before he was able to attend school, and then for only few months. He remained at home until twenty-one years old, at which time he started out for himself. In May, 1858, he was married in Portage township, to Miss Martha Mercer, a native of that town, and a daughter of William Mercer, one of its pioneers. Their children were as follows: Samantha E. (now Mrs. Isaac Shinew), of Portage township; Caroline, now the wife of Excel Phillips of Webster township; Earl D., who died in infancy; Seymour and Seymourse (twins), the former of whom is a farmer of Henry county, the latter dying when two years old; Fredrick, deceased in infancy; Adelbert, at home; Lucy, married to Edward Pugh, of Milton township; and Clara B., now the wife of Lewis Shinew, of Portage township. Our subject took for his second wife Mrs, Martha J Kring widow of Peter Kring. At the time of his marriage, Mr. Amos had fifty acres of land, on which his mother lived with him for four years. In March, 1874 he came to Portage township, and lived for two years in Portage village. He bought eighty acres of land in Section 9, and in 1893 built him a good, comfortable home. He is a Democrat, but does not seek office, preferring to look after his own business. He has had a rather rough time of it, and has been unfortunate in many ways; but he has overcome his bad luck, and is to-day a successful farmer, and a respected citizen of the township. His present wife is a most estimable woman, and an excellent helpmate. He is a member of the F. & A. M., at Bowling Green, and is retired from active life.

CHARLES G. WIRICK. Among the young men of Wood county who have selected agriculture as their vocation in life and judging from present indications are bound to succeed in their chosen calling is the subject of this biographical notice, who is a resident of Bloom township. He was January 22, 1870, on the farm which is still his home, and is a son of David and Mary A. (Smith) Wirick. His mother died during his infancy, and he was then taken to the home of his uncle, Solomon Smith, where he remained a year, but, with the exception of that period, he remained with his father up to the time of his marriage. His education was obtained in District No. 3, his first teacher being Della Drane.

On September 7, 1892, Mr. Wirick was united in marriage with Miss Florence Bailey, a native of Bloom Center, Wood county, and a daughter of. John A. Bailey. The household is brightened by the presence of a littleP Squire D.. born November 18, 1893. After his marriage, Mr. Wirick (Solomon Smith) farm, Which he operated until the spring of 1893, since when he has owned and cultivated the old homestead, in Section 8, Bloom township, which comprises eighty acres of as fine land as can be found in the county. He also engages in teaming in the oil fields, keeping several horses for that purpose. In politics he is independent, voting for the man not the party. Although young in years,. he is one of the representative men of his township, occupying a high place in the estimation of his fellow citizens, is an energetic straight forward business man, enjoying the confidence of all with whom he comes in contact.

CHARLES H. COY. Among the progressive and enterprising farmers of Wood county there are very few who are the peers of the subject of this biographical sketch. His residence is situated in Section 32. Ross township, where he is engaged principally in general farming. His birth occurred in that township September 16, 1854, and he is the son of Charles and Mercy (Gardner) Coy. The father, who, was a native Oxfordshire, England, came to America at an early day, and became a resident of Perrysburg, Wood county. Here he married, and upon a farm in Ross township made his home. Six of his seven children grew to adult age; namely : Mrs. Mary Eggleston, of Ross township; Mrs. Caroline Dixon, of West Toledo, Ohio; Louisa, wife of Isaac Rideout, of Ross township; Addis, who became the wife of Fred Wachter, and died in Ross township: Charles H., subject of this sketch; and William O., who is living on the home farm, For many years the father served as trustee of Ross township, and there died in 1883; while his wife departed this life in December, 1893.

The subject of this biographical notice received education in the District schools of Ross township, then called Perrysburg township, and was reared upon a farm. In his early manhood he commenced agricultural pursuits for himself, and has always been engaged in farming and gardening owning 137 3/4 acres in the home farm, and eleven acres just outside the city limits of Toledo. His land is all highly culivated and improved and he erected thereon substantial farm building. On January 1, 1876, in Ross township, was celebrated the marriage of Mr.

1343 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO.

Coy and Miss Carrie Wales a native of that township and a daughter of Oscar and Sophronia (Horton) Wales who were born in New York; but were among the early settlers of Wood county. The father now makes his home in Fulton county, Ohio, but the mother is deceased. To our subject and his wife were born six children: Addie, Fannie, Carrie who died in 1886: Charley, who died in 1890; Raymond and Mars. The mother of these children was called to her final rest in 1890, and, in 1893. Mr. Coy was again married, his second union being with Florence Crane, who was born in Lake township, Wood county, where her father, Thomas K. Crane, still makes his home. One child graces this union, Aaron Edward. Politically Mr. Coy is an adherent to the principles of Jeffersonian Democracy, and although not an office seeker has been trustee of Ross township since 1893. He is an intelligent, industrious and energetic citizen, who takes a very prominent place in the community where he lives, and socially is connected with Maumee Lodge No.. 515, I. O. O. F. Both he and his estimable wife preserve the warmest esteem of the entire neighborhood for their many admirable virtues, and for their genial manners.

C. C. FULLER is one of the energetic and industrious farmers of Wood county, who, since 1865, resided in Section 32, Liberty township, where his father purchased a fifty-acre wooded tract, and moved thereon a frame house, which was hauled from Scott township, Sandusky Co., Ohio. He is a native of Maine, born in 1849, and is descended from worthy. New England ancestry. His paternal grandfather spent his entire life in the Pine Tree State; but his maternal grandparents, Charles and Catherine (Brooks) Richardson, who were also born in Maine, emigrated to Sandusky county, Ohio, whence they come to Wood county in 1865; but their last days were passed in Isabella county, Mich., where the grandfather died at the age of ninety years, and the grandmother in 1895, at

The births of the parents of our subject William and Polly (Richardson) Fuller, occurred in Maine, on the Kennehec river where they were reared and married, and on coming westward,.in 1851, they first located in Cuyahoga county. At the expiration of years, however, they removed to Scott township, Sandusky county, locating on a small farm where they made their home until coming to Liberty township in 1865. In that county the father had followedthe carpenter's trade, and after his arrival here continued to follow that occupation. The family dwelling was located about forty rods south of the present residence of our subject. The parents are now living at Weston. To them were born eight children-C. C., of this sketch; Sarah Melissa, a widow lady now residing in Weston; Seth, who died in Scott township, Sandusky county, in 1863; Roselle, who died in Liberty township, 1869; Miles, who is married and lives in Isabella county, Mich.; and Mrs Elmira Morrison; Mrs. Mary Nie: and Flora, who all make their homes in Weston.

C. C. Fuller was only two years old when brought by his parents to the Buckeye State. and in the schools of Scott township, Sandusky county, he acquired a fair education. At the age of sixteen he accompanied the family to Liberty township, Wood county, and has since been numered among its most progressive and enterprising citizens. He still resides upon the old homestead, which indicates by its neat and thrifty appearance to be under the supervision of a careful and painstaking owner.

In 1868, in Liberty township, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Fuller and Miss Elizabeth Crocker, a native of England, and a daughter of Richard and Betsy (Reynolds) Crocker, who was born in Devonshire. England, and in 1852 with their family came to Canada, whence they removed to Crawford county, Ohio, and in 1858, to Wood county, locating upon a farm in Liberty township four years later. There the father died in 1893, but his widow still makes her home on that place. Mrs. Fuller is the oldest of eight children, and is followed by Mrs. Ann Schaaf, of Attica; Ohio; Sam, a resident of Wingston, this county; George, of Liberty township; Mrs. Mary Leedy, who makes her home in West Independence. Hancock Co.. Ohio, William, of Liberty township; Mrs. Emma Inman, of Jackson township, Wood county; and Clara. Five children grace the union of our subject and wife, and they also lost one in infancy. In order of birth they are as follows: Mrs. Ida William; Mrs. Myrta Alspaugh. of Liberty township; Anna, who died at the age of fifteen months, in 1876; William: Frank; and Ada.

In his political affiliations Mr. Fuller is a pronounced Democrat, always supporting that party with his ballot, and at present is serving as constable and postmaster at Wingston. He belongs to the Knights of the Maccabees. No. 858, and religiously is a member of the United Brethren Church at Wingston. For over thirty years he has made his home in Wood county, taking an

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active interest in its welfare, and doing all in his power to promote and elevate its interests, and has noted the wonderful changes that have taken place within its borders.

ROBERT YOUNGS. The record of a life is seldom marked by startling events, and the who seeks subject matter of thrilling interest seldom turns to biography, except he who would learn lessons to aid him in his own pilgrimage, and can ofttimes find them in the record of the men who improve their opportunities from day to day and faithfully discharged each duty as it comes. Such a man is the subject of this review: He was born April 27, 1849, near the town of King's Lynn, County of Norfolk, England, a son of Robert and Grace (Barber) Youngs, natives of the same county. The father was a farmer by occupation. He sailed from Liverpool on the vessel "Manhattan" with his wife and family, and after a. voyage of eight weeks, landed at New York, whence he came direct to Huron county, Ohio. He located on a rented farm, and in the spring of 1864, came to Liberty township, Wood county where he purchased twenty-three acres of wild land on which stood a log cabin. He afterward added forty acres to the original purchase. His death occurred July 21, 1885, and that of his wife on July 23,1889. Their children were as follows: John, who served as a private in the 10^th O. V. C., and died from the effects of wound in the right leg received at the battle of Resaca; Sarah, wife of Lije Russell,. died in Lucas county, Ohio: William is an inmate of the Toledo hospital; Lizzie is the wife of Henry Sautter, of Plain township; Robert is our subject, and James died on the passage to America.

Our subject began his education in his native land and continued his studies in the schools of Huron and Wood counties. He was reared on his father's farm, and remained at home until his marriage which occurred in Weston township, the lady of his choice being Miss Sarah, daughter of James and Harriet (Hughes) Ellis. They have five children - Grace, Caroline, Robert J., Walter, and William J.

Upon their marriage, Mr. Youngs and his wife located on the old family homestead, where they have since resided, the former devoting his time and energies to agricultural pursuits. He votes the Republican party, and takes a deep interest in its success and growth. Socially he is connected with the Lodge of Odd Fellows at Weston. His honest, industrious life has made him well liked, and he has in this community many warm personal friends. .

G. S. MEEKER, a popular citizen, and the genial postmaster at Stony Ridge, was born on June 9, 1845, in Plain township, a son of H. S. and Eliza A. (Harris) Meeker, also residents of
that township.

Our subject began his education in the common schools near his home afterward pursuing his studies at Center, and then taking a course at Tontogany under Prof. Kelley. Subsequently he engaged in teaching school for several years, and was a capable educator. He also worked his father's farm until 1870, when he learned the carpenter's and joiner's trade, which he has since followed. In 1883 he took up his residence in Sugar Ridge, and established the first mercantile store in the town. He was one of the first to petition for a post office, and when this was secured he gave it the name of Sugar Ridge. He was also the first postmaster, and to-day, occupies that position with credit to himself and satisfaction to the public. His business interests are well conducted, and in all his dealings he is honorable, upright and trustworthy.

In 1866 Mr. Meeker was united in marriage with Miss Mary C. Longmore, of Seneca county, Ohio, and five children grace this union: Minnie, wife of S. Hunter, Nettie, wife of George Schell, of Putnam county, Ohio; Mertie, Lee; and Maud, wife of Charles Duhamel. His fellow townsmen, appreciating his worth and ability; have frequently called on Mr. Meeker to serve in public office. For two years he was assessor; for a number of years was supervisor; also school director, and he discharged his duties with promptness and fidelity. He was a member of the Grange, of which he served as grand master; has been master workman in the Knights of Labor, and is a member of the Knights of Pythias fraternity, the Independent Order of Red Men, and the I. O. O. F. In his political affiliations he is a Democrat, and in his Church relations he is a Methodist: He is a wide-awake progressive citizen, and has been an important and valued factor of the community in which he makes his home. Three different times he enlisted during the Civil war; but owing to various causes, chiefly on account of his youth, he was not accepted. accepted.

N. G. BERKLEY, a leading agriculturist of Liberty township, was born in Lyman, N. H., December 9, 1825. His father, Robert Berkley. was a native of Scotland, and during his boyhood was brought to America. The grandfather, Robert Berkley, Sr., was born in Scotland, April 15, 1756. He married Rhoda Way, who was

1344 - WOOD COUNTY, OHIO.

born in Sharon, Conn., August 21, 1759. Their children were as follow: Rhoda, born March 17, 1780; William born January 5, 1783; Anna, January 8, 1785; Elizabeth, October 10, 1788; Irena, July 10, 1790; Cyrus, July 5, 1792; Hannah, November 1, 1795; Robert, September 1, 1798, and Sarah, September 19, 1801.

The parents of our subject were married in New Hampshire, September 17, 1820, and their children were seven in number, the names and dates of birth being as follows: Britain W., August 9, 1821, Arthur, January 25, 1823; Ladora, February 28, 1824; Nelson G., Decembe