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BOSTON TOWNSHIP.


HIRAM V. BRONSON : Peninsula : is a son of Harmon and Molly (Hickok) Bronson, who were natives of Waterbury. Conn. Barmen was born Dec. 18. 1774 : his wife Dec. 17. 1777. They were united in marriage Dec. 18, 1795. and. with his fathers family. came to Ohio in 1809. Harmon settled in Cleveland with his family. while his father went on to Columbia. Lorain Co.. where he resided' until his death in 1816. Harmon Bronson was by trade a carpenter. and was occupied in this business during his residence in Cleveland. the place at that time scarcely meriting the name of village. Upon the breaking-out of the war of 1812. he sent his wife and family to Connecticut. but they only reached a town in New York State. however. when their money was exhausted. and she remained there all winter. working in a hotel : and. at the close of the war. she took a presented opportunity to ride back to Cleveland in a lumber wagon. In 1815. Harmon removed to Lorain County. where he engaged in farming. remaining there until I S21. and then returned to Cleveland. He remained there but a short time. however, moving to Boston Township and locating at Peninsula. where the remainder of his days were passed. He became a huge landowner. and was largely interested in developing the business inferests of' the township. He erected the first saw and grist mill at that place. which he successfully conducted for some years. His death occurred upon the anniversary of his birth and marriage. Dec. 1S. 1553. His wife died Feb. 18, 1858. Hiram C. Bronson was born in Cleveland in 1811. and came with his parents to Peninsula in 1824. where he has since resided. Upon the death of his father. he succeeded him in his milling and various enterprises. Ile has been an active participant in all public enterprises : has striven to promote all measures conducing to the best interests of the community. and has been instrumental in securing for Peninsula such advantages as will last as long as does the community. He has served as Justice of the Peace, and as Assistant United States Internal Revenue Collector for four years, and as Postmaster for eight years. He is now pleasantly situated, retired from active life. but always finds time to lend a helping hand to any enterprise which tends to promote the welfare of the community with which he has been so long identified. To the fund of reminiscences and historical facts which he has gathered during his life of nearly 70 years. the historian of Boston Township is chiefly in-


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debted for the material of his sketch. Mr. Bronson was united in marriage, in 1835, to Miss Ruth L. Ranney, a native of Ohio, and daughter to Comfort and Betsey (Hubbard) Ranney, pioneers of Boston Township, a more complete sketch of whom will be found elsewhere in this department. Of the children born to Mr. and Mrs. Bronson, Lucy, born May 1, 1838, married P. H. Dudley, C. E., Dec. 12, 1871. Mr. Dudley is the inventor of the " dynagraph "—a car so constructed that by passing over a road he can give an accurate chart, showing its exact condition as to the rail, roadbed, natural resistance, speed, amount of coal and water used by engine, grade, etc. This is one of the most intricate and valuable inventions of modern times. Mr. Dudley's first car was constructed for the Victorian Government for the railways of Australia. He is now constantly employed in examining the railroads of this country, and can be found most of the time with his family in his car. which is fitted out with elegant appointments. Mr. Dudley is also the inventor of an electric clock, which is making a sensation in scientific circles. Emily V., born May 7, 1843. was married to Hon. A. L. Conger, of Akron. Nov. 1, 1864. Mr. Conger is one of Akron's most prominent citizens, of whom an extended sketch will be found elsewhere in this work. Harmon, born Aug. 15, 1846, has traveled extensively, and is a promising young business man, at present living in Philadelphia, engaged in business connected with the electric clock of Mr. Dudley's invention.


FREDERICK. N BOIES, retired farmer, Peninsula. Perhaps none of the older settlers of the township have passed through such a varied and interesting career as the subject of this sketch. He was born in New Hampshire in 1800, and remained with his father, who was a farmer, until he was 17 years of age, when he engaged in lumbering upon the St. Croix River for three years. He then returned home, and for a year engaged in the mercantile trade, afterward in the stock business, and finally in lumbering, which he continued for four yea's and then, after a few months, devoted to various occupations, he went to Portland, Conn., and farmed three years. While there, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Lewis, who was born in 1805. They were married Jan. 5, 1830. After his marriage, Mr. B. was boss teamster in the famous freestone quarries of Portland for three years. In the fall of 1834, he removed with his family to Ohio, and bought a piece of land in Northampton Township, remaining there three years, when he removed to Stow Township, and started a blacksmithshop, which he conducted for some time, his family enjoying the superior school advantages of that township. He traded his shop, after a time, for 80 acres of land, upon which he remained one year, and then bought and located upon 110 acres of land in Boston Township. In 1849, he went to California, but returned in about one year, and resumed farming and dairying. One day, while milking, he was stricken with paralysis, from which he partially recovered. and, exposing himself, caught cold. which resulted in the loss of his eyesight. Since June. 1876, he has not been able to see a ray of light. Mentally, Mr. Boies is as vigorous as he was in his prime, and relates, with minute dates, interesting reminiscences of the former days of his busy life. Himself and wife are members of the Episcopal Church. in which he is Senior Warden. They are now living in Peninsula, and enjoy the satisfaction of having raised a worthy family of children, viz., Mrs. Ann L. Cole, Peninsula. Ohio ; Mrs. Mary Worthington, who died in Connecticut ; Charles E.. Fred W., Mrs. Effie A. Worthington, of Portland, Conn., and Helen, who died at the age of 14, in Boston Township.


CHARLES E. BOIES is a young and promising business man of Peninsula. He was born in Stow Township, in 1840. At about the age of 15, he went to Connecticut, from which place he took passage upon a coasting vessel. In August, 1862, he enlisted in the 20th Conn. V. I., and was in active service during all the rebellion, after which he again went to sea for a year. In the fall of 1867, he came to Peninsula, and started a meat market, after which he engaged upon the canal a year ; and, in 1872, went into partnership with his brother, F. W. Boies, who was engaged in milling at Peninsula, which business they operated together until January. 1880, when he sold out to his brother, who afterward disposed of the business to George Thomas & Son, with whom Mr. Boies is now engaged. He was married, in 1868, to Miss Alice A. Warburton, of Northampton Township. They have two children—Edith M. and E. Rice. Charles is now serving as Township Trustee, and as a member of the Council, and has served


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as Constable two terms. He is a member of Meridian Sun Lodge, No. 266, A., F. & A. M. of Richfield.


FRED W. BOIES was born in Stow Township, Sept. 17, 1842, and. until 21 years of age, was an assistant upon his father's farm. In 1862, he enlisted in the 115th 0. V. I., and served for three years in all the engagements of his regiment. Upon his return to his home, he engaged in business upon the canal, and followed boating for himself six years, at the expiration of which time he engaged at farming for two years, and then, with his brother Charles, followed milling, at which he devoted his time exclusively up to February, 1881, when he sold out to George Thomas & Son. He is a young man, possessing good business qualifications. and will succeed at whatever he undertakes.


FRANK BUTLER, farmer ; P. O. Peninsula ; is a young and extensive farmer of the township. His parents are Thomas and Catharine (Brennan) Butler, both of whom are natives of Ireland. They emigrated to America, and subsequently settled. in 1849. upon the farm which Frank now owns. Frank was born in Northampton Township. in 1851, but has re sided in Boston Township since the removal of his parents there. being engaged in farming and lumbering. He now owns 280 acres of land, which he previously shared in partnership with his brother John. He has improved the place with buildings, and has the farm under good cultivation. He is an industrious and deserving young man, and is highly respected by his fellow townsmen. John Butler was born in Northampton, in 1848. and has been farming for the greater portion of his life. His health is such that he goes to the Southern States to spend the winter months. but the remainder of the time is identified with Boston Township as one of its most respected inhabitants.


EDWARD BLAKESLEY. retired farmer ; Peninsula ; is a son of Edward and Rhoda (Daggett) Blakesley. His father was a native of Hartford, Conn.; his mother, of Schenectady. N. Y.. where they were married. They emigrated to Olio, in 1835, locating in Richfield Township, where they resided for many years. His father was an extensive landowner, owning land in Hinckley, Granger, Royalton and Brecksville Townships. He died. Jan. 14, 1876, in Royalton. His mother died at his home in Peninsula, Feb. 11, 1879, at the advanced ageof 92 years. The subject of this sketch was born in Onondaga town and county, Jan. 11, 1815, and has been engaged in agricultural pursuits his entire life. He commenced farming for himself in Richfield Township, remaining there nearly nine years ; from there he removed to Boston Township, where he has since resided. He has now disposed of his land, and is living in retirement in Peninsula. He is naturally endowed with a genial and liberal spirit, and is a respected and progressive citizen. Mr. Blakesley was married to Miss Ellen Robinson, of Richfield, in 1844 ; they had three children. but one of whom is now living—Ellen Tate. His wife died Feb. 14, 1857. July 5, 1879, he was married to a second wife, Mrs. Betsey McBride, widow of John McBride.


JOHN CONGER (deceased). Job and Roby (Potter) Conger. were married in Vermont, and settled upon his father's farm, at St. Albans. He was one of eleven children, all of whom were Methodists and took a great interest in the church. His father is believed to have been the progenitor of all of the name in the United States. He was a native of New York, and she of Vermont. To them was born. at St. Albans. Vt., the subject of this sketch—John Conger—in September, 1805. who, as soon as he became old enough. worked upon the farm at home, and, they having a brickyard. he learned to manufacture brick. He was married to Hannah Beals, a daughter of Enoch and Hannah (Hurlburt) Beals. she being a native of Massachusetts. Her father was a farmer, and lived a mile and a half from St. Albans. at which place he and his wife lived and died. Of their daughters. but one other than Mrs. Conger survives : her name is Mary Ann Beals, and her home near Avon, in Wisconsin. Mrs. John Conger was born in Massachusetts, in 1805. After her marriage with Mr. Conger, they remained in St. Albans' five years. where he was employed on the farm and in the brickyard. In 1833, he came to Ohio. and for one season clerked at Cleveland for one Ira Jewell. when he was joined by his family. which then consisted of his wife and two children—Sidney P. and George S., an infant, who died when 3 years of age. Subsequently. they moved to Boston, Ohio, where. in company with one Silas Eaton, he established a yard for the manufacture of brick, at which occupation they continued for some time. In 1844, Mr. Conger went into


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partnership with one Erastus Jackson. with whom he was associated until the time of his death, and who was, from the date of their co-partnership, his fast friend. Seven children were born to him, viz., Sidney P.. Sandford L., George S.. John C.. Arthur L.. and Lucy Cole, wife of Dr. A. M. Cole. of Peninsula. He was Postmaster under Polk and Pierce : was also Constable. Trustee. and frequently called upon in settlement of estates and arbitration or differences between parties. He was Captain of Artillery. in Vermont. and was deeply interested in the militia service hi his adopted State. He died Nov. 30. 1833.


SIDNEY P. CONGER. deceased : was born in Vermont in 1829. and came with his parents when they removed to Boston Township, where his early life was passed. He was married Nov. 6, 1853. to Miss Bridget I. Coder. of Boston Township ; she died in January 1861, leaving two children—Lucy Jeanette Warburton, living in Peninsula. and Sidney John. a resident of Akron. He married a second wife. Miss Rose Mellwain, of Boston Township. April 10, 1862. Mr. Conger was a prominent business man of the township. engaged in various enterprises. He was engaged in the manufacture of brick for a number of' years. and also owned 180 acres of land which he operated. making a specialty of dairying. He served one term as County Commissioner, and held various township offices of trust. He was a member of Meridian Sun Lodge. No. 266, A., F. & A. M. His death occurred in August, 1874, in his life's prime, and was a severe blow to the business interests of Boston. Mrs. Conger is living in Boston Village ; she has three children living—George C., Mary Belle and Allie Blanche.


JOHN C. CONGER, farmer; P. O. Peninsula : was born in Boston Township in 1835. His early days were passed engaged in home duties, receiving a good district-school education. He first left home and was gone one season with Lieut. Reynolds upon a topographical survey of the lakes. Returning to Boston Township, he engaged at farming and brick-making until the breaking-out of the war, when he enlisted Aug. 16, 1861, in Co. A. 2d O. V. C., and was in active service until April 8, 1863. He returned to Boston Township and engaged in farming, at which he has continued up to the present time. He has 135acres of land, commandingly located a short distance from Peninsula, and well improved. As a citizen, Mr. Conger ranks as one of the most intelligent and honorable. He was married in September 1867, to Miss Eunice M. Stillman, who was born in Rhode Island in 1844. They have been blessed with five children-Fanny S., Luen J.. Elmer B.. Pamela P. and Mary G. Mr. Conger has served as Township Clerk and is a member of Meridian Sun Lodge, No. 266. and of Summit Chapter of Twinsburg A., F. & A. M.



A. M. COLE, merchant. Peninsula : is a son of Edmund H. and Ann L. (Boies) Cole. Edmund H. Cole was born in Niagara Co.. N. Y. in 1824. and came with his parents to Ohio at the age of 8 years. His ventures for himself commenced at an early age. first engaging in school-teaching. and then buying and shipping stock. In 1856. he commenced his mercantile career, at which he continued until his death. He first associated himself with F. & T. Wood. under the firm name of Wood. Cole & Co., continuing until 1863. when he bought out his partners and continued in business alone in the same locality, which he carried on until his death. Jan. 11. 1876. He was a man prominent in all objects of charity, enterprising in all movements tending to the growth. the advantages and welfare of the comnmunity, foremost in educational and township affairs, and taking a leading interest in agricultural fairs, serving as Marshal at the fairs in Akron each year. Throughout the excitement prevalent during the war, he was found most loyal and patriotic, aiding with all the means within his power to protect and save the Union. He opened in 1868, the stone quarry south of the town to give employment to laboring men, and was one of the incorporators of the Put-in-Bay Grape and Wine Co., which he was successfully connected with for several years. His death was a severe loss to the business interests of Peninsula and vicinity. He was married in 1848, to Miss Ann L. Boies, daughter of Frederick N. Boies, of Peninsula. Mrs. Cole is living in Peninsula, educating her younger children. Four children now living were the result of this marriage—A. M., H. W., Nellie and Fred.


Dr.. A. M. COLE was born in Everett, July 6, 1850. His education was common school and Commercial College. For several years he was


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assistant in his father's store. He then entered upon the study and practice of medicine. He commenced his studies in the office of Dr. Morton, of Peninsula, and finished with Dr. Pixley, who was at that time in practice at Cleveland. He graduated in the Medical Department of Wooster University, of Cleveland, in 1873–74 ; attended two courses of lectures in Cleveland, and one course at the College of Physicians and Surgeons of New York. He then returned to Peninsula and was urged to remain there by his father, who was in ill health. He practiced there two years, the last year in company with Dr. Pixley. Upon the death of his father, he entered upon a mercantile career. at which he is now engaged. In 1879, in company with his brother, H. W. Cole, who conducted the business there, he opened a store in Deerfield. Portage Co., which was carried on to a successful termination, by the disposal of the stock. His brother then came to Peninsula and entered into partnership with him under the firm name of Dr. A. M. Cole & Bro. They carry a large and well-selected stock of dry goods, groceries, drugs, medicines, etc.. and have built up a large and still increasing trade. Dr. Cole. although not in active practice, has an office in his store, and does a good office business. He is a prominent Mason. and takes a leading interest in all the political issues of the (lay. He has served as School Director two years. and has been Treasurer of the School Fund for three years. He is an advocate of temperance. and is ready to aid any movement for the advancement of the business, social and intellectual good of the community. He is a director and one of the principal owners of the "Tri-Union Telegraph Co.,'' which runs from Chagrin Falls to Medina, and which is a good paying investment. Mr. Cole was united in marriage in 1876. to Mrs. Lucy J. Truscott, of Cleveland, a widow with two children—Harry and Jessie. Mr. and Mrs. Cole have one child—Sam.


H. W. COLE was born in Peninsula in 1857, received a good education. and for some time acted as a commercial traveler from Cleveland. He is now the junior partner of the firm, and brings to the business good commercial attributes.


H. H. CASSIDY, grocer, Peninsula ; was born in Boston Township in 1850. His parents are Patrick and Margaret Cassidy, wholocated in the township in 1820, where they still reside. Our subject started out in life for himself at the age of 18 ; he sold osageorange hedge for two years, and then engaged in the lightning-rod business for five years. He next engaged at farming for two years, and still owns, with his brother James, a farm of 170 acres in the township. In December, 1880, he in connection with John Russell opened a grocery store in Peninsula, and are now engaged in trade there under the firm name of Cassidy & Russell. Mr. Cassidy also owns and is operating a sawmill in the village. He is now serving the third year as Township Trustee, and is a pushing and enterprising business man. He was married in 1877, to Miss Anna Cody, of Boston Township. They have one child—Archimedes.


ANDREW R. CASSIDY, hotel, Peninsula; was born in Boston Township in 1844, and is a son of Patrick and Margaret Cassidy ; he attended school until he became 16 years of age, after which he engaged for several years in teaching—in all about eighteen terms—in different portions of the county ; in 1866, he started for the West and was gone about eight months, visiting many different localities ; upon his return home, he taught school one term in Hudson ; he then engaged in farming in Boston Township, at which he continued about seven years. still owning the farm ; in 1875, he rented the hotel where he is now living, in Peninsula, and, in 1878, bought the property, which he has carried on up to the present time, but devoting most of his time to cheese and butter making, at which he has been largely engaged for the past live years ; he owns one factory and rents two others, and, during the season of about eight months yearly, makes upon an average 1.700 pounds of cheese and 230 pounds of butter daily ; two of these factories are located in Boston. and one in Richfield Township. Mr Cassidy has served the township as Assessor for seven years, as Township Clerk for three years, and the past year as Real Estate Assessor. He was married in 1869, to Miss Agnes Doherty, of Cleveland ; they have three children—Grace E., Helen M. and Andrew H.


CHARLES FISH, farmer ; P. 0. Boston. The Fish brothers. Charles and Buel, own 362 acres of land in Boston Township. which they are rapidly clearing and improving ; at the time of its purchase. a few years ago, it was


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covered with underbrush and timber ; now they have over 50 acres in a good state of cultivation, and, being young and industrious men, they will in a few years have a large portion in cleared and fertile fields. Charles was born in Cuyahoga Co. in 1842 ; he was married to Miss Mary Campbell in 1865 ; they have two children—Willis and Millie. Charles has associated with him in his farming enterprise. a cousin—Deming B. Fish—who was born in Cuyahoga Co. in 1846, and is an enterprising and industrious young man. Buel Fish was born in Cuyahoga Co. in 1847 ; he was united in marriage, in 1868, to Miss Lela Hollister, of Cuyahoga Co.; they have two children—Nellie and Lida. Charles and Deming were both volunteers in the late war, serving long and faithfully in the defense of their country : Charles was a member of the 7th Ky. V. C., and served over three years ; Deming was a member of the 52d O. V. I., and also served three years, during which time he was once a prisoner for five weeks.


A. W. HANCOCK, farmer ; P. O. Peninsula ; was born in Massachusetts in 1832, and came to Ohio with his parents, who settled in Richfield Township, their sketch appearing in that township history. He passed his early days upon the farm until he became 20 years old, when he engaged in various occupations—farming, droving, etc., until 1857, when he was married to Miss Lydia M. Humphrey, who is a daughter of Isaiah and Almira (Waite) Humphrey ; her father was born in Connecticut in 1807 ; her mother in Massachusetts in 1809. Her father came with his parents to Twinsburg at an early day. He was a lawyer by profession, and. after his marriage, resided a number of years in Twinsburg, engaged at his profession, subsequently removing to Boston Township, where he bought a farm, dividing his time between the two vocations. He died in 1877 ; her mother is still living in the township, upon her farm. After his marriage, Mr. H. worked upon his father-in-law's farm for two years, and then enlisted in the 64th O. V. I., Co. G. He was in active service all through the war, and rose from a private, through all the different grades of merit, to that of Major, as which he was mustered out in 1865 ; his regiment participated in a great many severe battles—Stone River, Chickamauga, Pittsburg Landing, Nashville, and the siege of Atlanta being the mostmemorable. Through them all he passed, and only received a slight wound in the leg at Chickamauga. Our space forbids an extended notice of his military career, and suffice it to say that his duty to his country was performed most honorably. After his return home he removed to Cleveland, where. for four years, he was engaged in training horses upon the Cleveland Driving Park. He then entered the employ of the American Express Company as messenger, and had the route from Cleveland to Erie for a short time, after which he acted as their agent at Vernon, Ohio ; from there going to Mansfield, being the messenger from there to Toledo for two years, and from Cleveland to Columbus four years. In 1877. he returned to Boston Township. where he has since resided, engaging in farming. Mr. and Mrs. Hancock have two children—Sylvia E. and Harry H.


ERASTUS JACKSON ; James Jackson, a native of New York. was born near King's Bridge, now New York City. and, in A. D. 1800, he went to (then) Holiwell. C. W., where, eight years after, he married one Celia Whitney, who was visiting her sister, a Mrs. Palmer. at that place. Miss Whitney was a native of Litchfield Co., Conn. Her mother was a near neighbor and acquaintance of Israel Putnam, and, previous to her death. could remember many events which have since become matter of history. Two years after the marriage of Mr. Jackson and Miss Whitney, they moved to New York State, settling where Brockport, N. Y., now is. The same year. 1810, the subject of these lines was born to them. Mrs. Whitney Jackson died in 1827. leaving eight children, of whom Mrs. Milina McBride, of Summit Co., Ohio, is the only one living except our subject. James Jackson, of Kalamazoo, Mich., Mrs. E. Gardner and Willett Jackson, Brockport, N. Y., are now living. Mr. E. Jackson passed his minority on the farm. In 1832, he started Westward for the purpose of paying a visit to his aunt, Mrs. Palmer, who had moved to Marietta, Ohio, stopping on his way at Boston, Ohio, where he clerked in a grocery one summer ; the ravages of cholera, and the consequent stagnation of business, inducing him to discontinue the clerkship, when he made the visit to Marietta, and returned to his native State, where, the following winter, he began school-teaching, which, in connection with other vocations, he followed until 1837, when he re-


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turned to Boston. At the " Lock " in Boston, he clerked in a grocery, teaching school the first winter, and the following spring he went into business at that place for himself, continuing for four years, when he started a furnace at the same place, which now is existent at Hinckley ; he conducted its business about two years, when, in 1844, in partnership with Mr. John Conger, he went into the brick business. They manufactured the bricks for all the first brick buildings of Akron. many of which are standing, and among which may be mentioned the Empire House, P. D. Hall's. Baldwin's. Exchange. Gardner & Hanscome's, M. W. Haney. William Upson's, and Perkins & Cumming's Block. During their partnership, they invested their money in land—some of their purchases being 169 acres, for which they paid in bricks, which they sent to Cleveland, 134 acres of Sheldon C. Leavitt. where the Conger homestead now is ; McBride's farm of 150 acres, and 409 acres from the C., C.. C. & I. R. R. Co.. west of Boston Village. Ohio. By putting their money directly into land they made a sure, steady progress toward affluence. His partner, Mr. Conger. died on Nov. 30. 1853. and. for two years. he conducted the business in partnership with the sons of the deceased. at the end of which time he withdrew and commenced farming, which occupation he has since followed. Commencing in life as a poor clerk he has grown to be one of the wealthiest landowners in the township. and his success is clue to his own energy, and perseverance. He has served as Justice of the Peace for about twelve years, as Township Clerk five years. and, for some time, as Township Treasurer. He was Postmaster of Boston from 1848 to 1852. and is present Postmaster of Peninsula. having held the position since Hayes' administration. On June. 1854, he was married to Mrs. Conger. widow of his former partner.


HENRY KERST. coal dealer. Peninsula ; was born in Germany in 1840 ; his parents emigrated to America in 1854, and first settled in Cleveland, remaining their one year, and in 1855, removed to Boston Township. remaining there until their deaths. Henry began life as a boatman upon the canal, and finally, in partnership with another gentleman, bought a boat and began business for himself; he subsequently disposed of his share of the boat and bought one alone. continuing in that business for a number of years ; he began his coal operations by bringing up a boat load in the fall and selling it during the winter : in 1880, he disposed of his boat. and started a coalyard in Peninsula, at which he is now engaged. He was married Dec. 25. 1879, to Mrs. Esther Noah, of Boston ; she has two children —Andrew and George. Mr. Kerst is a popular and deserving citizen with progressive business habits ; he is a member of Hudson Lodge. No. 510, A.. F. & A. M.


LEWIS LEMOIN, station agent Valley R. R., Peninsula ; is a son of Benjamin and Priscilla (Pray) Lemoin ; his father was a native of Massachusetts, and his mother of Connecticut. They were married in Pittsfield, Mass., in 1821. and in 1827. they emigrated to Ohio. locating first in Medina Co., but only remained there one year, when they removed to Massillon. where for ten years he was engaged in the tailor and clothier business with Charles Skinner : about 1838, he removed to Akron. and worked at the trade, for Jacob Allen, for two years. when he removed to Brandywine, Northfield Township, when for eight years he was employed in a woolen-mill ; he has served as Justice of the Peace, as Township Trustee, and has always been prominent in educational affairs, and in all movements toward the advancement of humanity. He is now living with his son at Macedonia, and is in the 87th year of his age. His wife died in the summer of 1876. Lewis was born in Pittsfield. Mass.. Dec. 24, 1822 ; when 18 years old, he commenced driving on the canal. and passed through the several gradations from driver to packet Captain, his experience in that line covering about twelve years ; he next became connected with the railroad business. and commencing at Cuyahoga Falls with the C. & Mt. V. R. R. Co. as switchman, going thence to Clinton as station agent. where he remained two years. and thence to Macedonia. where. with the C. & P. R. R. Co.. he served seventeen years as station agent ; he was next employed two years at Columbus, as night watchman of the Treasury ; he is at present in the employ of the V. R. R. Co. as station agent for Boston and Peninsula. Mr. Lemoin was united in marriage. Feb. 28. 1853, to Miss Lucinda Post, daughter of Henry and Mary A. (Clark) Post, who were natives of Connecticut and pioneers of Boston Township. Mr. Post came to the


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township in 1804, but shortly afterward returned to Connecticut and was married ; returning with his wife, he built the first log cabin in the township, and cleared the first 10 acres of land ; he served through the war of 1812, his wife remaining in the township alone, surrounded by dangers of almost every description, as Indians and wild beasts were numerous ; however, she passed safely through all, and, with her husband, lived through the various changes of pioneer life to the days of modern improvements ; she died in October. 1859 ; her husband survived her several years ; he served as Justice of the Peace, and was a progressive and respected citizen ; he was finally killed by the cars, July 4, 1865. at Macedonia. while on a visit to his daughter. Mrs. Lemoin was born in Boston Township, Jan. 11, 1827. They have four children, viz.: Theodore, now station agent at Macedonia ; Lew D.. Sylvia E. and Dollie O. Mr. Lemoin served Northfield Township four years as clerk ; he is a prominent Mason. being a member of Hudson Lodge, No. 510, and Akron Commandery, No. 25 ; he is P. H. P. of Summit Chapter, and P. M. of Hudson Lodge.


HIRAM LEE, farmer ; P. O. Peninsula ; is a son of Hiram and Ann Lee, who came to Boston Township in 1861. Hiram has followed the occupation of a farmer from the age of 16 years up to the present writing, and is considered one of the best, most practical and most industrious farmers of the township. He was united in marriage in December, 1865, to Miss Elizabeth A. Gillson, who is a daughter of John H. and Hannah (Schofield) Gillson. He was a native of England, his wife of New York. They were married in Ohio, and came to Boston Township in 1841. Mr. Gillson settled in the southern portion of the township, where he resided until his death, which occurred Feb. 1, 1877. His wife still resides upon the farm, which consists of 116 acres of finely located and well drained land, and is one of the best cultivated and improved farms in the township, being conducted by Mr. Lee. Mr. and Mrs. Lee have four children—Herbert G., Parker A., Corda M. and Edwin H. He is one of the enterprising and progressive spirits of the township, and is a deserving and respectable citizen.


VOLNEY MILLER, farmer; P. O. Hudson ; is a son of Samuel and Sally (Ozmun) Miller. Samuel Miller was born in Orange Co., N. Y., and his wife in Tompkins Co., where they were married. They were pioneers o Boston Township, locating there in 1810, upon the State road, where he purchased 150 acre: of unimproved land, and where for some year( they resided, their lives being replete with the toil and hardships to which the advance guards " of the army of civilization are subject. They next removed to Hudson Town ship, disposing of part of his farming interest: in Boston. Here he resided for twenty-five years, engaged in farming, and then removed to Michigan, where he died at the age of 77 his wife having died in Summit County many years previous. Volney is the only child of this union living. He was born in Boston Township July 20, 1811, and has been engaged in agricultural pursuits for the most of his life. He has, with the exception of three years' residence in Hudson, lived at the old homestead. where his parents first settled. His property now consists of 314 acres of land, a good portion of which is improved. He has improved the farm since it came into his possession with a fine brick residence and in commodious outbuildings until it is a most desirable home. Mr. Miller has served the township as Trustee and Constable. In education and its interests, he has always been forward, and as a citizen is respected and trusted. He was united in marriage. June 4. 1835, to Miss Susan Thompson, a daughter of Abram Thompson, one of Hudson's first settlers, where she was born June 3. 1813. They have had two children—Louisa S.. who died at home, and Virgil T., who resides with his parents upon the old homestead. He was married, July 3. 1862, to Miss Helen S. Danforth, of Hudson Township. She has borne him three children. viz., Millie L., Minnie M. and Ora V.


D. McBRIDE, butcher, Peninsula ; is a son of James A. McBride. who was born in Youngstown, Ohio, in 1816. He came with his parents to Boston Township at an early day, and has been a resident there since. He began life by working out by the month, as the death of his father left a large family. He then worked on the canal about two years, and then started a grocery at Boston with one Mr. E. Jackson, which they run for several years. He married, in 1842, Miss Melina Jackson, sister of his partner. She was born in Brock-


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port. N. Y. in 1818. They are now living in Peninsula, where Mr. McBride is engaged in boat-building. D. McBride was born in Boston Township in 1846. He first began life for himself as a butcher, in 1872. at Peninsula, where he has since successfully conducted the business. He runs a wagon through the country during the summer mouths. He erected a building in 1875. in Peninsula, which is one of the finest business buildings in the town. A lower storeroom he now rents to W. W. Whiting for stoves. hardware, etc, and occupies the upper room himself. which is admirably furnished. for his business. Mr. McBride has a fine commencement for a young man. all the result of his energy and business qualifications. He has been Corporation Marshal. and is at present serving as Councilman. He was united in marriage. in 1872. to Miss Lucy Fitts. daughter of Roswell Fitts. an old and respectable citizen of the township. They have one child —Chrissie.


JAMES A. McBRIDE, boat-builder. Peninsula ; was born in Youngstown. Ohio. in 1816. He is a son of William and Agnes (Duncan) McBride. who were early residents of Boston Township. coming there about 1822. His father was by trade a millwright. and built. for the Wallace family. the Brandywine grist and flouring mill. one of the pioneer industries of Summit Co. Win. McBride died in Boston Township. about 1829: his wife lived to be about 6 years of age. James A. McBride has been a resident of Boston Township the greater part of his life, engaged in different occupations. but has devoted the major part to boat-building and repairing. For several years, he was in partnership with Erastus Jackson. Esq., in the grocery trade, at Boston. and also embarked in an edge-tool manufactory at Boston. for several years. He removed to Peninsula in 1861. where he has since resided, and has been working at his trade. He was married to Miss Melina Jackson. sister of E. Jackson ; she is a native of Brockport. N. Y. The members of this family now living are Harriet, Mott. Duncan. James and John, all living in Boston Township. Mr. McBride has served as a member of the Corporation Council for two or three years. His grandfather. James Duncan, a Presbyterian clergyman, was one of the earliest writers against slavery, and was the author of a book which was published many years beforethe war, and awakened a great interest for the cause.


O. J. MOTT. blacksmith, Peninsula; was born in Franklin, Portage Co., Ohio, in 1841. He commenced to learn the blacksmith's trade with L. Beers, at Peninsula, Ohio, when he was 16 years of age. He remained with him for four years. at the expiration of which time he enlisted in the 2d O. V. C., and was in the service for more than three years. Upon his return to Peninsula, he entered into partnership with his former employer, L. Beers, which continued for ten years. In 1875. he erected the large and commodious shop where he is now located, and where he is doing a lucrative and leading business. Mr. Mott is a skilled workman, and one of Peninsula's representative and honored men. He has served the township as Treasurer for four years. and has been a member of the Corporation Council several times. He was married in 1868, to Miss Phoebe McArthur, who died in June. 1879, leaving four children—Arthur, Sylvia, Jessie and Le Grand. He was united to a second wife. Miss Mary Lightfoot, in June. 1880.


FRANKLIN OZMUN, farmer ; P. O. Hudson ; is a son of Isaac and Maria (Neuman) Ozmun. His father was born in Orange Co., N. Y.. in 1785, and his mother in Pennsylvania, in 1787. They were married in Tompkins Co., N. Y.. where they settled upon a farm remain tour years. during which time Franklin was born. in 1807. In 1811. they emigrated to Ohio. and in October of that year located upon 59 acres of timbered land (where subject now resides). and possessing, like most pioneers, industrious habits, they became large landowners, adding to their land until they possessed about 400 acres, which they divided among their children. He served the township as Trustee and as Justice of the Peace for twenty-one years. as Township Treasurer, add held various offices of trust and honor. He was also greatly interested in the militia, in which he ranked as Captain and Major. He died May 26, 1866. His wife, aged 94 years. still lives upon the old farm with her son Franklin (our subject). The children of this worthy couple are as follows : Margaret Crossman, of Michigan ; Hector, who died in Boston Township ; Polly M. Carter, of Richfield ; Catharine Ashley, of Strongsville ; Abram N., who was born Jan. 26, 1827, and married, on July 3, 1862. Miss Eliza Veers.


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He commenced life farming in Northfield Township, but returned to Boston in 1866, where he has since resided ; he has three children—Laura A., Mary M. and Charles V. Franklin has resided upon the farm where his parents settled, during his entire life ; he has always followed farming, and now owns about 170 acres of improved land. He is considered one of the solid, substantial citizens of the township.


HECTOR OZMUN, deceased ; was born Feb. 19, 1815, in Boston Township ; was a son of Isaac and Maria (Neuman) Osmun, pioneers of Boston Township. He married Aug. 24, 1840, Miss Nancy Long, who was a daughter of Christian Long, an early settler of Summit County, and a resident of the county until his death. Nancy was born in Northumberland Co., Penn.. Jan. 1, 1822. After their marriage, they removed to the western part of Boston Township, where she still resides. He was a farmer and interested in dairying ; he died May 19, 1879. Mrs. Ozmun still resides upon the farm of 236 acres of improved land, which is cultivated by her sons. The children are as follows : Isaac and Andrew, both married and farming in Michigan ; Mary Viall, of Boston Township ; Margaret and Lucius, at home ; Augusta Peach, living in Boston Township; Edward, a resident of Hudson ; Sarah, at home ; Henry, in Michigan ; and Lincoln, at home. Mrs. Ozmun has a sister living in Bath Township, Mrs. Elizabeth Huntley ; and two brothers in Indiana, Andrew and Christian tong.


DR. SUMNER PIXLEY, Peninsula ; is a son of Stephen Pixley, one of the pioneers of Richfield Township. Dr. Pixley was born in Massachusetts in 1816. and was not quite 1 year old at the time of his parents' settlement in Richfield. His early days were passed upon the farm there. After deciding to make the medical profession his life-work, he entered the office of Drs. Trask & Leonard, of Strongsville, remaining with them about two years, also studying in the office of Dr. Munson, of Richfield, one and a half years. He then attended the Western Reserve College, graduating in the medical department in 1846 and 1847. He also took a full course of lectures at the College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, and at the Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia. He began the practice of his profession at Wooster, Ohio, where hecontinued ten years. He then removed to California, where he practiced in Marysville about eighteen months. In 1854, he returned to Richfield, where he remained until 1869, when he removed to Cleveland, where he practiced until 1876, at which time he removed to Peninsula, where he has since resided. Dr. Pixley has an extended practice, and occupies an elevated rank among his professional brothers. He is a member of the State Medical Association and of the Northeast Medical Association. He also served as Surgeon of the 110th O. V. I., and was in field and hospital service nearly two years. He was married in April, 1847, to Elmira A. Tupper, who is a daughter of Charles and Julia H. (Briggs) Tupper, natives of Vermont, and early settlers in Strongsville, Cuyahoga Co., where they resided up to the time of their deaths. Mr. and Mrs. Pixley have two sons—Chelius S.. who graduated from the Cleveland Medical College in 1873, and is now engaged in practice in Elkhart, Ind.; Will H.. a promising young law student, now in the office of Gen. Wildes. of Akron. He was elected Justice of the Peace of Peninsula when 21 years old, and is now serving as such.


JORGEN PETERSEN. painter. Peninsula ; was born at Elsinore, Denmark, within a short distance from the castle, made celebrated by Shakespeare in his " Hamlet." His father was a sailor, and served in the Danish navy many years. He afterward engaged in fishing, at which occupation our subject passed his earlier years. At the age of 15 he served on an English collier, remaining upon it four years as a sailor. Next upon an English vessel for four years, and, in 1842, shipped upon the American bark " Richmond. of Plymouth, and landed in New Orleans. After serving as a sailor for six years. sailing from American ports, he engaged with a firm in New York' and learned the painter's trade, remaining with them five years. He then worked at his trade three years there, and, in 1855, emigrated to Ohio. He located in Peninsula in 1864, and was first engaged as a painter of canal-boats, afterward building the boat " Scandinavia," which he conducted for fifteen years, since which time he has been following his trade. He was married, in 1849, to Miss Marie V. Miller. They have seven children living—Charles M., Emma C., Francis E., Albert. Ada M., Lizzie and Edith. Mr. Petersen has always been an industrious and


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respected citizen, and has been Township and Corporation Clerks. He has a most entertaining fund of reminiscences of his varied life, which makes him an interesting companion. He is also familiar with several languages.


LYMAN C. POST, farmer ; P. O. Hudson ; is a son of Henry Post, Jr., and Lucy A. (Curtis) Post. His father was the first white male child born in Boston Township. His mother was born in Hudson. After their marriage they lived in the northeast corner of the township the most of the time until their deaths. He died in September, 1879, and she in November of the same year. The grandparents of our subject were the first settlers in the township, and an extended sketch of their lives and pioneer experiences will be found in another portion of this work. Lyman is the youngest of a family of six children—Minerva Hine (of Twinsburg), Lydia Warrell (of Northfield Township). Mary A. Clisby (Trumbull Co.), George H. (of Michigan), Sophronia Johnson (a resident of Macedonia), and the subject of this sketch, who is a native of Boston Township, born in 1850. a resident of the township and of the old homestead up to the present time. He has followed farming for the most of his life. and, in connection with his farm, he erected, in November. 1879. a steam sawmill, to the operation of which he devotes a part of his' time. and which is proving a profitable enterprise. He was married in 1873. to Miss Ella Johnson. of Geauga Co.. who died May 22. 1875.


ANTON PFAUS, shoemaker, Peninsula ; is a native of Germany, where he was born in 1847. His parents emigrated to America when our subject was only 5 years of age, they locating in Cleveland, where they remained until they died. Anton learned his trade in Cleveland, serving an apprenticeship of nearly three years, after which he worked at the trade there about one year. In 1867. he came to Peninsula. after a few months in Hudson, where he located, and has since followed his chosen trade. It is now his intention to add to his business by placing upon sale a line of boots, shoes, etc., and carry on a first-class boot and shoe store. Mr. Pfaus was married to Miss Laura McClure. of Peninsula. in 1870. They have one child—Herman.


LUTHER B. RANNEY. farmer; P. O. Hudson ; is a son of Comfort and Betsey (Hubbard)

Ranney, both natives of Connecticut. Comfort was born March 20, 1788, and Betsey April 2, 1790 ; they were married in Connecticut, Dec. 25, 1808, and came immediately to Hudson. The same year, accompanied by his father and brother Jacob, they started from Connecticut and his father died upon the way, and Jacob followed him soon after reaching Hudson. Comfort Ranney's father was a soldier in the Revolution, and owned, at the time of his death, a tract of land in Richfield. Comfort located in Hudson ; he was a ship-carpenter by trade, and soon after moved to Cleveland and followed his calling there. But, because of poor health, his stay there was brief and he soon after returned to Hudson and engaged in running a sawmill, which was finally burned, when he removed to Boston Township about 1320, and purchased a 'piece of laud where he resided only a few years, when he died July 14, 1823. His wife survived him until Jan. 4, 1868, when she died, aged 78. Of the children born to them the following are now living : Luther B. ; Julia A. Shields, residing in Kansas, and Eliza S. Shields, of Boston Township ; Ruth L. Bronson, of' Peninsula , Betsey J. Hurlburt, living in Cleveland, and Moses, of Northfield Township. Mrs. Ranney was subsequently married to. Mr. Collier, by whom she had two children —Capt. M. J. Collier, of Cleveland, , and Fred M. Collier. of Indiana. Mr. and Mrs. Ranney were both members of the Methodist Church. Luther B. Ranney was born in Hudson Nov. 28, 1809. After the death of his father in 1823, their farm was sold and our subject, with the laudable ambition to regain it, worked by the month for Deacon Hudson at $5 per month. and was, by industry and perseverance, finally the happy owner ; the farm is located upon the State road, and now consists of well-cultivated fields and is improved with good buildings and all modern comforts. Mr. Ranney is. essentially, a self-made man, having begun life under many difficulties. He is a most intelligent and well-informed man. Mr. Ranney has served in various offices of township trust, and ranks as one of the citizens par excellence. Mr. Ranney was married in 1833, to Miss Sally M. Carter, who died July 29, 1846, leaving five children, three now living—Comfort, of Michigan ; Harriet S. Leach, of Michigan, and Sarah M., living in Akron ; he was married April 6, 1847, to a second wife. Miss Caroline Clapp, daughter


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of Richard and Anna (Alvord) Clapp, natives of Massachusetts, and early settlers of Brecksville ; she was born in Massachusetts May 3, 1821. Their children are three in number—Julia Ann Criss, of Akron ; Luther K., and Carrie M. Evans, also a resident of Akron. Mr. and Mrs. Ranney resided in Akron three years to secure for their children superior school advantages. Luther K. entered for a classical course at Buchtel College. of Akron, but on account of ill health was forced to leave ; he is now studying at home where he has a well-selected library of books. Mr. Ranney, during the gold excitement of 1850, went to California. where he remained for four years. mining with good success. He relates many stories and reminiscences of the pioneer days of his parents : he has, in his possession, a wooden bottle. which was carried by his great grandfather, and by his grandfather through the Revolution. and which descended through his father to himself.


W. W. RICHARDSON, merchant. Everett ; is the principal representative of the mercantile business of Everett. and was born in Licking Co.. Ohio, in 1840. His parent: were William and Jane Richardson. his father being a native of New York and his mother of Vermont. They first settled in Licking County. where his father followed the carpenter and joiner's trade. He died while living in Illinois where he was practicing medicine. His mother is still living in Delaware Co., Ohio. Our subject began his business ventures upon the canal being the owner of a boat, and was engaged for three years in the transportation of stone to Cleveland. the most of which was used by the A. & G. W. Railroad. He next turned his attention to farming, following that occupation in Boston Township for three years, and for the next ten years in Bath Township. In March, 1879, he removed to Everett Station, where he has since devoted his attention to the mercantile business. His store is located upon the banks of the canal, and his stock consists of groceries, dry goods and a general line of boat supplies. He was married Feb. 25, 1863, to Miss Sylvia Myers, Who was born in Portage County in 1840. They have three children—Margaret A., Dora B. and Eva P. Mr. Richardson is the owner of the celebrated chestnut stallion "Sunshine."


WILLIAM RICHARDSON, farmer ; P. O. Boston ; was born in Bucks Co., Penn., in 1814. His father was a mechanic, but subsequently became a farmer, and our subject's early life and experience was in the care and cultivation of his father's land. He remained at home until he was 27 years of age. and then engaged in farming in Bucks County for himself, continning there three years. and one year in Philadelphia County ; he then rented another farm which he cultivated for two years. at the expiration of which time. he was engaged as a drover for a year. In 1856. he removed to Brooklyn. Cuyahoga County, and engaged in milling there for a few years. after which he again resumed farming. continuing until 1864, when he removed to Boston Township. where he has since resided. His farm consists of 200 acres, about two-thirds of which is in cultivation. He has improved the place in buildings and erected a neat and desirable residence. Like the most of his neighbors. he is awaking the dairy business a specialty. Mr. Richardson was united in marriage. in 1840. to Miss Mary M. Hagstoz in Philadelphia. They have an adopted son—Franklin E.


LEWIS B. ROSWELL. Marshal. Peninsula : was born in Lake Co., Ohio. in 1832. His parents were Ambrose and Elizabeth (Van Looven) Roswell ; his father was a native of New York and his mother of Pennsylvania. They were married in Canada, and subsequently removed to the States. locating in Lake County, where they remained about three years. then removing to Hudson where they were residents for the remainder of their days. Lewis started out in life for himself at the age of 15, working upon a farm for over a year. He then learned the shoemaker's trade at Twinsburg, and followed that trade in different localities, chiefly Hudson and Peninsula, for many years, since which time he has engaged in various occupations. He is at present serving the corporation of Peninsula as Marshal. He was married in 1873 to Miss Nettie Wilson.


GEORGE STANFORD, farmer : P. O. Boston ; is one of the oldest settlers now living in Boston Township. He was born in Beaver Co., Penn., Oct. 9. 1800. His parents were James and Polly (Johnston) Stanford. His father was a native of Ireland ; his mother of Pennsylvania. They emigrated to Ohio and settled in Warren. Trumbull Co., about 1802, where they remained about three years, moving thence to Bristol, remaining one year. His father then


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joined a surveying party to locate and survey Boston Township, and he removed his family in March, 1806. taking 169 acres upon the west bank of the Cuyahoga River, near Boston. Here they resided for the remainder of their lives. Many of their pioneer incidents and adventures appear in the township history. She died in July. 1814, and James in January. 1827. leaving nine children—George being the only one now living-who has been engaged in agriculture. and has resided upon the old homestead farm since his parents death. He furnishes many of the dates and reminiscences of pioneer days. found in the township history. The farm (which now consists of 284 acres) has been greatly improved by him. He has served in various offices of township trust. having been Justice of the Peace for six years. He is a consistent member of the Methodist Church. He was united in marriage. Jan. 17. 9828. to Catharine Carter. a daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth Carter. early settlers of the township. locating there about 1819. and remaining there during their lives. Catharine was horn in Ireland. in 1804 ; she departed this life Dec. 20. 1872. Eight children were the result of this marriage—Emily. who (lied an infant: James M. and Ellen. both of whom died at 20 years of age : William Irwin (deceased) ; Perkins W. Stanford. who enlisted as a private in the 2d O. V. C.. Co. .: he was subsequently promoted to Sergeant : was finally captured a prisoner in 1864. and died in Andersonville Prison : Eliza. who n lied at the age of 3 years. and George C., born April 18. 1839. He was married to Miss Lida Wetmore. Dec. 23. 1869. They have three children—Ellen. Perkins W. and Clayton J. George is now serving as Postmaster of Boston.


ANDREW STUART. grocer. Peninsula : was horn in Ireland in 1850. In 1852. his parents emigrated to America and settled in Norton Township. Summit Co. His father was a farmer. and our subject remained at home until he became 14 years of age. He then went out to work upon a farm, at which he continued nearly four years. and then went to work upon the canal. boating about four years : and then upon a farm again two years. at the end of which time he was engaged upon public works at Akron one season. In 1871. he began clerking in a grocery at Everett's Station. working there about a year. and from there to Peninsula. andengaged in the same occupation for D. Peck, with whom he remained some three years or more ; after which, for a few years, he engaged in different occupations. In 1879, he returned to Peninsula and purchased the stock of his old employer. D. Peck, where he is now engaged in trade for himself. He keeps a general line of groceries and boat supplies, and is doing a flourishing business. Mr. Stuart has by industry and hard work effected a good business commencement, and will doubtless become one of the successful business men of Peninsula.


DANIEL TILDEN, farmer ; P. O. Peninsula ; was born in Vermont in 1790. His parents were natives of Connecticut, where they were married : they then removed to Vermont, where they resided for some years, moving from there to Massachusetts. where the remainder of their lives were spent. Daniel. at the age of 16. left home : and, in 1817, came to Ohio. settling in Hiram. Portage Co.. where he bought a piece of land and began the task of clearing it. He remained there about two years. and. after disposing of his land, returned to Massachusetts. where he remained about six years farming. In 1824. he returned to Hiram. and. after one year. came to Boston Township. where he accepted a job upon the canal. He was also engaged several years at milling. He then entered upon his farming operations. locating upon the McBride farms. where he remained four years : after which. he bought 160 acres of land. located in the western part of the township, where he has lived since 1837. He was married in 1832 to Nancy Mather. who was born in Vermont in 1792. and died in Boston Township in 1849. They had two children—Nancy. who died when an infant. and Daniel W. Mr. Tilden commenced life with no pecuniary assistance. and has accumulated a handsome property. He has served as Township Trustee. and was elected .Justice of Peace.' but did not serve. Daniel W. Tilden was born in March. 18 36. in Boston Township. of which place he has since been a resident. He has always followed farming and lived upon the old homestead since his father removed there. They have 450 acres of land, which is of good quality and under good cultivation : and they have also been considerably interested in dairying and cheese-making. Daniel W. was married. in 1857. to Miss Harriet Hall. who was born in New York in 1839. Her parents subsequently removed to Summit Co..


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where they passed the remainder of their days. They have but one child living—Pearlie M. Daniel W. has served the township as Trustee for many years, and is one of the leading citizens. His father is past 90 years of age, but still retains vivid recollections of his early struggles, and relates many reminiscences of pioneer life.


BURRILL VIALL, farmer ; P. 0. Peninsula ; was born in Hanover Township, Chautauqua Co., N. Y., in 1821. He is a son of Burrill Viall, who was born in Bennington Co., Vt., in 1793, and removed to New York in 1814, settling in Chautauqua Co., where he soon after married Sarah Ferguson, who was born in Cooperstown, N. Y. They removed to Ohio, and first settled in Middlebury in 1831, removing from there to Northampton. and residing there until 1850, when they removed to Jackson Co., Iowa, where they resided until their deaths, his occurring Dec. 23, 1862, and hers Jan. 4, 1864. They were both members of the Methodist Church. They had twelve children, six boys and six girls. Burrill, Jr., has always followed farming. He remained with his parents until 20 years of age, and, in 1841, bought 50 acres of land, which is a part of the farm where he now resides. He is a self-made man. having commenced the struggle of life with small means, and, by industry and practical ability, accumulated a large farm, which is ornamented by an elegant residence, finely appointed. His is one of the model farms of the township, and his system consists in dairying and general farming. He ranks as one of the township's most valuable citizens, having served as Trustee, and taken an active interest in its educational matters. He was married, Dec. 24, 1843, to Miss Jane White, who was born in Cleveland, Ohio, Feb. 7, 1823. Her father, Solomon White, was a native of Vermont ; her mother, Hannah (Bronson) White, of Connecticut, he served as baggage boy in the war of 1812, at the age of 14, under Gen. Harrison. Her mother was taken to Connecticut by her mother, to avoid the danger of warfare. Her parents remained at Cleveland until she was 10 years of age, when they removed to Brooklyn, living there four years. He was the Cuyahoga Co. Pork Inspector. They subsequently removed to Boston Township, and finally emigrated to Jackson Co., Iowa, where they both died ; his death occurred Jan. 24, 1864 ; his wife died March 15, of the same year. Mr.and Mrs. Viall's family are as follows : Sarah J., deceased ; Mattie J. Humphrey, living in Richfield ; Mary A. Carr, of Cuyahoga Falls ; Julia F. Oviatt, Boston Township ; Lucy E. Clark, residing in Middlebury ; Kittie E. and Jennie M., at home.


B. J. VIERS, farmer ; P. O. Hudson ; is a son of Charles and Laura (Patterson) Viers. Charles Viers was born in Jefferson Co., N. V., in 1806, and was married to Laura Patterson in 1827. She was born in Vermont in 1810. He was the son of a farmer and pioneer of Jefferson Co., and subject to the toil and privation of that life from his childhood. After his marriage, he farmed in that county for some years. and then emigrated to Ohio. settling in Northfield Township in 1831, where he still resides. His wife died in October. 1877. Their children are as follows : Bazzel J.; Theda E. Holt, of Northfield ; Eliza J., the widow of George Lamb, now the wife of A. N. Ozmun, of Boston Township ; Samantha. deceased ; Charles Albert. of Hudson, and Laura M.. deceased. Our subject was born in Jefferson Co.. N. Y., in 1829 ; he remained with his parents until 20 years of age, receiving a common-school education. He taught school one winter, at the age of 19. His occupation for many years subsequently was that of a laborer. About 1864, he began farming operations for himself, purchasing a piece of wild land, which he cleared and worked for two years. when he disposed of it and bought land in Norton Township, farming there about seven years. In 1874, he purchased a tract of land where he now resides, in Boston Township. His farm consists of 218 acres of improved land, located upon the State road." Mr. Viers is a practical and industrious farmer, and stands high in his township and county. He was married, in November, 1856, to Miss Lovena Ford. daughter of Marvin Ford, of Northampton. She was born in Northampton in 1839. They have eight children living, and one deceased (Clara A., died at 6 years of Laura E., Marvin F,, Charles E., Lydia A., Albert B., Linda M.. Rose I. and Lillie I. (twins).


FREDERICK B. WADHAMS, farmer; P. O. Hudson ; was born in Litchfield Co., Conn.. in 1804. He is a son of Seth and Lucy (Davis) Wad hams. His mother died when be was about

2 years old, and his father subsequently mar-


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lied her sister. His father died, leaving five sons and one daughter. Frederick, who was but 4 years of age, lived with his stepmother until he was 16 years old, and then went to live with Gen. Abernethy, at Torrington, Conn., with whom he remained until he attained his majority, working in the mercantile business. In the fall of 1825, he went to South Carolina, and was in the employ of Wadkins & Birge for six years, in the mercantile trade, having charge of one of their stores, located at Lawrence. After severing his connection with them, he engaged in business for himself there. peddling dry goods and notions, at which he continued for five years. meeting with good success. He then returned to Connecticut, where he was married, September. 1830, to Miss Cornelia Phelps. He then bought the Mansion House, of Litchfield, which he owned for several years, but which proved an unfortunate investment, and in 1835, he started for Ohio, with but little money, but rich in hope, perseverance, industrious habits and good business qualifications. He located in Boston Township. purchasing 150 acres of timbered laud at $16 per acre. borrowing most of the money to pay for it. Mr. Wadhams has resided in the township from that day to the present time. and has been so largely engaged in various enterprises that our space will hardly afford a complete history. His firm at present comprises about 400 acres of as fine land as there is in the township. with superior improvements in buildings. and with a location unequaled for a commanding view of the landscape for miles around, together with good drainage, and a stone quarry of superior grade ; he has also engaged in dairying. His business transactions for many years were extensive. He interested himself largely in the lumber trade. during which he ran sawmills, cooper-shops, canal-boats. etc.; he also owned at one time about 1.400 acres of land. and has done much to promote the prosperity of the township. Beginning life as he did, without money, it is a great source of satisfaction for him to review his past life. and reflect that to his perseverance. honesty of purpose, and industry alone. is clue all of his well-deserved prosperity. He was married again. Sept. 16. 1846, to Miss ' Jane Jones, who was born in New York in 1816, and is a daughter of Rees and Jane (Wright) Jones. early settlers of Northampton, in which township history a sketch of them appears. Her grandfather Wright was also one of Northampton's pioneers. Mr. and Mrs. Wadhams have three children—George, Ellen and Charles, all at home. Mr. Wadhams has a son, Frederick B., by his former wife, living in Cleveland. The Wadhams family are of English descent, tracing the line back to 1680, and were the founders of Wadhams College, in England.


F. WOOD, merchant, Peninsula. Prominent among the business interests of Peninsula is the general mercantile store of F. Wood. Mr. Wood was born in County Wicklow, Ireland, in 1828. His parents were Nesbitt and Eliza (Morton) Wood. His father resigned a commission in the English army, and, with his family, emigrated to America in 1835, locating in Michigan. In 1838, they removed to Boston Township, where they resided for the remainder of their lives. His father's death occurred in 1863, and his mother's in 1868. The subject of this sketch began his mercantile career at the age of 18, when he entered the store of Arthur Layton, at Boston Village, with whom he continued about three years. and, in the same store, with his successor, J. D. Edson, for over four years. In 1853, he came to Peninsula, and started in business for himself. purchasing the stock of Charles Curtis. In 1863, he removed to his present location. where he has since been successfully engaged in trade, with a general stock of dry goods. groceries. etc.. and also a line of drugs and medicines. He has also devoted considerable attention to other business interests and enterprises, for many years being the principal owner of the stone quarry. south of the village ; and. in 1872, when it became a stock concern, he retained an interest until 1879, when he disposed of his stock to F. Schumacher, of Akron. He held the office of Deputy Postmaster, and that of Postmaster for twenty-one years. He has also served in various township offices of trust. He is a member of Richfield Lodge, Meridian Sun. No. 266, A., F. & A. M. Mr. Wood was married, Feb. 16, 1854, to Miss Charlotte M. Barnhart, who was born in Peninsula, June 19. 1836, and is the daughter of Jacob Barnhart and Rhoda (Bronson) Barnhart. Jacob Barnhart was born in New York, in 1804. and emigrated to Cleveland in 1832, and from there to Peninsula, in the following year, when he I became engaged in the boat-building business, in which he was a pioneer in that section. He was a respected and enterprising citizen during


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his entire life, taking a prominent position and active interest in the enrollment of volunteers during our late war ; his patriotism being so sincere that, although nearly 60 years of age, he enlisted in the 2d O. V. C., but was not allowed to serve. He died Jan. 26. 1874. His wife, Rhoda Bronson. was born in Middlebury, Conn., Oct. 9, 1800. She was a daughter of Hermon and Molly (Hickox) Bronson, a more extended sketch of whom is given elsewhere. She was married, in March, 1816, to Willis Payne, who died in Akron in 1828, leaving two sons—H. B. Payne, lawyer at Richmond. Ind., and William H.. a boat-builder at Akron. She was married to Jacob Barnhart, in March. 1833. and survived him nearly six years. She died in September. 1879. Charlotte M. being the only child. Mr. and Mrs. Wood have had four children—Annie C., who died at the age of 20 mouths ; Stella A.. the wife of H. L. Cross, of Cleveland, who have a son Charles Wood ; Minnie E., who died in infancy, and Fred C. They have an adopted daughter—Miss Julia E. Mr. and Mrs. Wood, together with their family, are members of the Episcopal Church, in which they have been prominently identified for many years. Mr. Wood is the superintendent of the Sabbath school. and his wife, for many years. was the organist and leader of the choir.


F. C. WETMORE. farmer ; P. O. Peninsula. The Wetmore family in America are descendants from Thomas Whitmore, who came from the West of England to Boston. Mass.. in 1635. Judge William Wetmore was born in Middletown, Conn., in 1771, and came to Ohio in June, 1804, with his family, as agent of the Western Reserve Land Company, for the sale of their lands. He located in Stow Township and built the second house in that township. He was a general counselor of law, and served during the war of 1812, acting as Commissary of Supplies. In 1825, with his sons Henry and William, he made the first survey of Cuyahoga Falls, and commenced the improvements and laying-out of the town. They also started saw, flouring and oil mills in company with John Stow. He was a prime mover in giving life and impetus to business interests there. He died Oct. 9. 1827. William 0. Wetmore was born Sept. 5, 1796. Married, Oct. 2, 1822, Miss Elizabeth Wallace. He resided for a number of years at Cuyahoga Falls, where he was extensively engaged in manufacturing. He built the first paper-mill in Ohio, on the wet-felt plan. He removed to Boston Township in 1850, and bought a large tract of land and was beginning extensive business operations there, when he was taken suddenly ill through exposure, and died Jan. 12, 1852. He represented the counties of Portage and Summit in the State Legislature in 1844-45. His wife died Oct. 9, 1875. Children as follows : Henry, now living in Boston Township ; Edwin, of Northampton ; Mary Collier. in Indiana ; Frederick C.; Julia Wood, of Boston Township, and Eliza Stanford. of Boston Township. Frederick C. Wetmore was born in Stow Township March 6. 1835. Upon the death of his father. he engaged in various occupations until the spring of 1866. when he bought the sawmill at Peninsula. which his father had built. since which time he has been engaged in farming and lumbering in Boston Township. He has 160 acres of valuable improved land. and gives the dairying business considerable attention. Mr. Wetmore has served the township in many offices of trust. as Trustee. Town Clerk, Constable, Mayor and Councilman of the corporation, and as Justice of the Peace one year. at the expiration of which he resigned. He was united in marriage, Oct. 23, 1860, to Miss Emily Wetmore. a descendant of the same family as himself: Her father was Nathaniel D. Wetmore. a native of Connecticut, who embarked early in life in business. which led him to reside severally in Canada, Dover and Rochester, N. H., and Cuyahoga Falls and Cleveland, where he is now in business in connection with Brainard's Sons. He was a member of the General Assembly of New Hampshire in 1846-47-48, and is a correct an extensive business man. His wife was Lydia McIntosh, who died in Cuyahoga Falls in 1863. Mr. and Mrs. Wetmore have two children—Ethelbert and Lida. A daughter, Mildred, died at 4 years of age.


ALFRED WOLCOTT, farmer; P. O. Hudson ; is a son of Alfred and Margaret (Craig) Wolcott, pioneers of the township ; Alfred Wolcott was born in Connecticut, his wife in Wheeling, Va. He was a surveyor and was employed by Perkins to survey most of the land of the Western Reserve ; he was married in Youngstown, Ohio, about 1806, and in the fall of that year bought the land where Gen. Sanford now resides ; but thinking it


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would be unhealthy on account of the river, sold to Stanford, and purchased a tract of land where Alfred Jr.. now resides. He bought 115 acres and built a cabin upon it and began the clearing of the land. He raised a large family of children, three girls and six boys—Melinda. the eldest, was the first white female child born in the township ; only three of the children are now living—Alfred, Jr.: Darius. a resident of Geauga County. and Mrs. Mary Gaylord. of Stow Township. He followed his occupation of surveyor many years, laying out many of the township roads. and most of the land adjacent. He served as Justice of the Peace for eighteen years. and in other minor offices. taking a deep interest in educational matters. teaching school many terms. He died in 1835 : his wife in February 1863. Alfred Wolcott, Jr.. was born Jan. 28. 1812. in Boston Township, and remained at home, assisting in clearing land. as most boys of that period did, until he became of age. He was married. April 18. 1836. to Miss Mary Scovill, who was born in Connecticut, in 1821 : her father died in Connecticut and her mother subsequently married Thomas McCauley, and in 1832. they removed to Summit County ; they now reside in Hudson. After his marriage he bought a farm in Northfield Township, which he soon atterward traded for the old homestead from his brother. Here he has resided up to the present time, making many improvements and adding to his possessions. until he now owns 257 acres. the major portion of which is under cultivation. He has made a specialty of' the dairying business. He was elected a State Representative from his district and served two years ; has also served as Assessor and interests himself generally in all enterprises and improvements of merit. Mr. and Mrs. Wolcott have five children living—Simon P., a graduate of Western Reserve College, and now practicing law in Kent. Ohio: John. of Grand Rapids. Mich.. who is a graduate of the Mercantile College of Hiram Anna A. Bissell. living in Michigan. a graduate of Painesille Female Seminary: Alfred. Jr.. also a graduate of Western Reserve College. soon to go to Cincinnati to study Law : Fremont. at home ; Andrew A. enlisted in 29th O. V. I. and died in service.


ALLEN WELTON (deceased) ; was born in Vermont, July 18,1809. He was for many years a prominent farmer and dairyman of Boston Township. At the time of his death he was the owner of two cheese factories in the township, and was for many years a prominent member of the Ohio Dairymen's Association, in which he was a leader. Ile was one of the pioneer dairymen of the Western Reserve. starting the second factory within its limits. He was a man of extraordinary energy and possessed great executive ability. Commencing life a poor boy. one of his first enterprises proved a disaster ; he had chopped 400 cords of wood in New York State, which, by a sudden uprising of the stream, was all swept away. He was of very industrious habits, which. coupled with good judgment, made his later enterprises successful, and at the time of his death he left a handsome property. He was a popular citizen and was very patriotic. taking a leading interest in all efforts to carry on the late war. He was married in New York State to Miss Sarah Striker. by whom he had five children—Francis (deceased), George W., now a resident of Bradford. Penn., who was in the service nearly three years ; William H. H., of Akron, who served in the "Squirrel Hunters :" John A.. of Bath Township. who was in the service over three years, and Ellen E. Ozmun. who is living in Michigan. He was married to a second wife. Louise Thompson. March 17, 1852. She was born in Hudson. in 1831. and is a daughter of Mills and Catharine (Allen) Thompson. who were early settlers in the county. Five children were the result of this marriage—Cora A.. Emma C., Hattie J.. Iva J. and the eldest. a son, Frank E. Mr. Welton died in Boston Township. April 3. 1878. and in his death the community lost a valuable citizen and one of its progressive business men. Mrs. Welton is living upon the homestead. which consists of 180 acres of valuable land. finely located and improved.


W. W. WHITNEY. hardware. Peninsula : is a young and promising business man of Peninsula. He was born in Akron in 1856: commenced to learn his trade as tinsmith at the age of 19, with D. E. Sheppard. of Richfield, with whom he remained four years ; he then worked a short time for Green Lease, at Peninsula. thence to Hudson. where he worked four months for G. H. Grimm. In November, 1879, he returned to Peninsula. and. in July. 1880, commenced his present business venture. He


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purchased a new and complete line of hardware, stoves, tinware, agricultural implements, etc., and is doing a promising and growing trade. He is a skillful and experienced workman in tinware, in which line he does general repairing. His business location is central, and, as he is a popular and deserving young man, will, doubtless, grow into a fine trade.


C. S. WHITNEY, shoemaker; Peninsula; is a native of New York State. having been born in Oswego Co., in 1829. His father died in New York State, and his mother subsequently removed to Ohio, locating about 1835, in Parma; Cuyahoga Co. Our subject commenced to learn his trade at the age of 20 years. in West Cleveland, and has followed that calling all his life. He came to Peninsula about 1860, where he has since remained. He was united in marriage in 1854 to Miss Melissa Washburn ; they have three children—William W., Daniel L. and Nellie V. Mr. Whitney is considered one of the best citizens of Peninsula, and is an industrious and proficient workman.


FRANK E. WELTON, farmer and dairying; P. O. Peninsula ; is a son of Allen and Louise (Thompson) Welton. He was born in Boston Township Dec. 9, 1853. He is, by occupation. a farmer, and is a rising young dairyman. He has been interested in cheese-making for the past eight years, and is carrying on the factory located upon their farm. He was married Dec. 28. 1875. to Miss Ella Hancock. daughter of E. D. Hancock. Esq., of Richfield Township. They have one child—Park E.