BIOGRAPHIES

Source:
Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio
including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton.
Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899.

* HALL, Adam * HALM, Jacob Conrad    (See Williams Co., OH) * HAMMON, John * HARDY, Henry, Hon. * HARLEY, Christian * HARLEY, C. Perry * HAVER, Moses M. * HAVER, Thomas W. * HAYMAKER, Kidder V. * HEILAND, John B., Rev. * HELLER, Edward * HILL, W. D., Hon. * HIRES, John A. * HOCKMAN, John H. * HOFMEISTER, Jacob * HOLGATE, William C. * HOOKER, Edward Payson * HORR, William * HORSEY, Stephen * HORTON, Francis Newell * HUBBARD, William Humphreys * HUBER, Herman H. * HUFF, William W. * HUFFMAN, Peter * HULL, William D. * HUTCHINS, Forest O. Elizabeth Hall Adam Hall ADAM HALL.  This gentleman, who is the efficient and popular superintendent of the Defiance County Children's Home, located in Tiffin township, was born in that township Mar. 14, 1841.      Jacob Hall, father of our subject, was born in Pennsylvania, Jan. 15, 1803, and in 1822 married Susannah Coy, who was born July 2, 1805, in Greene county, Ohio, in the fall of 1831.  They came to Williams (now Defiance) county, settling in Section 15, Tiffin township, where both died, the father on April 6, 1851, the mother on Oct. 23, 1870.  To them were born ten children - eight sons and two daughters - Adam being the eighth in order of birth.      The subject of this sketch, as will be seen, was ten years old at the time of his father's death, and he remained upon the home farm with his mother, aiding in the labors of the fields, until he attained his eighteenth year.  He then started out to make his own way in the world, but continued to live with his mother until he entered the Union army during the Civil war, enlisting Feb. 8, 1864, in Company E, Fourteenth Ohio Volunteer infantry (a veteran regiment).  In May of that year he was placed on detached duty at the headquarters of the Third Brigade, Third Division, Fourteenth Army Corps, and remained in the service until hostilities ceased.      After his return from the war Mr. Hall engaged in carpentering in Tiffin township for about two years, and during the following two years and a half was in the employ of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad Co., at Stryker, Ohio.  In the latter part of November, 1870, he returned to Tiffin township, where he again worked at the carpenter's trade for about six years, and then turned his attention to agricultural pursuits.  He is the owner of a good forty-acre farm in that township, which he has improved and placed under a high state of cultivation.      On September 14, 1865, in Tiffin township, Mr. Hall was married, by Houston Russell, J. P., to Miss Elizabeth Dieden, who was born there Jan. 24, 1847, a daughter of Jacob and Hannah (Clark) Dieden, honored pioneer settlers of Tiffin township, having come to Williams (now Defiance) county in 1843.  The father was born in Bavaria, Germany, and died Apr. 16, 1872; the mother was born in Virginia Jan. 24, 1807, and died July 6, 1889.  They had a family of five children - one son and four daughters - Mrs. Hall being the fourth child.  Her grandparents on the father's side were born in Ebenburg, Kingdom of Bavaria, Germany, and died there, the grandfather when seventy-two years old.  Mrs. Hall's maternal grandparents were born in Virginia, whence they moved to Hocking county, Ohio; the grandmother died at the age of forty years, the grandfather at the advanced age of ninety-two years.  To our subject and his wife have been born six children, as follows:  Henry H., married to Florence E. Balser; Otto A., married to Hannah M.; and Roy B.      On Sept. 4, 1895, Mr. Hall assumed the duties of superintendent of the Defiance County Children's Home, and is now filling that responsible position for the fourth year.  The grounds include twenty-two acres in Tiffin township, and the Home will accommodate forty children.  Mr. and Mrs. Hall is kept in the best of order, and neatness prevails everywhere; indeed, the affairs of the institution were never more capably managed than under their able guidance.  They are sincere and earnest Christian people active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which Mr. Hall is serving as trustee.  Socially, he affiliates with Evansport Lodge, No. 489, I. O. O. F.; and with Bishop Post, No. 22, G. A. R.  He takes a commendable interest in the welfare of his township and county, and has acceptably served as assessor in Tiffin township for three successive terms. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899. ~ Page 232 Jacob C. Halm JACOB CONRAD HALM.  In all parts of the United States, whether in rural hamlet or crowded city. there may be found those who trace their descent from the studious and philosophic German race. In every walk of life their ability and energy have gained for them a foremost rank, and they constitute an important factor in the development and maintenance of American institutions. The superior advantages of this section have naturally attracted a large number of this enterprising class of citizens, and the following sketch supplies a typical instance of a family which has for many years occupied a leading place in the business and social activities of the thriving city of Bryan.      The ancestors of our subject had their home for many generations in the south of Germany, in or near the village of Baltmannsweiler, Schorndorf, Kingdom of Wurtemberg. His grandfather, Jacob Halm, who was a wealthy land owner and agriculturist of that vicinity, throughout his life held a prominent place as a citizen by reason of his high character. Like all the members of the family, Jacob Halm was a devout believer in the doctrines of the Lutheran Church, in which he was an active worker, and he died in that faith at the advanced age of eighty years. He and his wife reared a family of children, among whom was a son, Jacob (2), our subject's father.      Jacob Halm (2) was born in 1834, at Baltmannsweiler, and in his youth received an excellent education in the schools of that locality. Thus equipped for the battle of life, he determined in early manhood to seek in America a better opportunity for advancement than his native land promised him, and in 1854 he crossed the Atlantic. On reaching New York City he found employment in a large wholesale wine and liquor establishment, where he remained about four years. In 1858 he came to Ohio on a prospecting tour, but, being dissatisfied with the outlook, he returned to New York. In 1863 he again came west, the rapid development of this section having dispelled all doubts as to the future value of investments here, and soon after his arrival he located at Bryan, purchasing three or four lots on the north side of the public square, including the present site of the First National Bank. He at once opened a grocery and saloon there, but after carrying on the business for a year he sold the property and removed to a farm in Defiance county, five miles south of Bryan.   In 1865 he sold out and returned to Bryan, having purchased from Henry Arnold the old brewery there. It was then a common frame structure, limited in its capacity and crude in its fittings, and with characteristic foresight and energy he added various modern improvements.      In 1873 he removed the old buildings entirely, and erected a modern brick structure, ninety feet square and four stories in height, with basement, and equipped it with the most approved appliances. His special aim was to secure a good quality of beer, absolutely free from adulteration, pure malt and hops being used instead of the cheaper substitutes which are sometimes employed by other manufacturers. The water for the plant was obtained from an artesian well, thus insuring perfect purity, and even this was carefully sterilized before being used. It is not strange that with such methods he soon established a reputation for making a first-class product, and the demand rapidly increased until he had an extensive and profitable business. At the time of his death, which occurred March 7, 1883, he was worth more than seventy-five thousand dollars, and was regarded as one of the substantial business men of the locality.      He was a generous man, liberal in thought and in his dealings with others, and as a citizen he was public-spirited and progressive. In politics he was a Democrat, and during two terms he served acceptably as a member of the city council. For many years he was a leading member of the German Lutheran Church, and socially he was identified with the I. O. O. F. and the Masonic fraternity. His death was a sad blow to the community in which he had so long resided, especially as it came without warning. While overseeing some work in the brewery his sleeve was caught by a set screw on a rapidly revolving shaft, and he was instantly killed. His wife, Caroline Kiesel, to whom he was married in New York City October 20, 1858, survived him several years, dying June 15, 1895, and their remains now rest side by side in the Fountain City cemetery, at Bryan. Their acquaintance had begun in childhood, at Baltmannsweiler, Germany, where Mrs. Halm was born May 26, 1834, and as she came to America in 1853 they had known but little separation throughout their lives until death came between them. Of their five children—the eldest, Caroline, died at the age of twenty, unmarried; Rosa married A. G. Helwig, a stenographer, residing at Kendallsville, Indiana; Jacob C., our subject, is mentioned more fully below; Julia married F. H. Kreagloh, now the secretary of the Halm Brewing Company at Bryan; and William died (unmarried) in 1892, aged twenty-three years.      Our subject was born July 15, 1864, at the farm then owned by his father in Defiance county, and his education was secured in the schools of Bryan. During his boyhood he began to take an interest in the management of the brewery, and in time he became thoroughly acquainted with all the details of the work. At the time of his father's death, although only eighteen years old, he took entire charge of the business, and he has ever since con­ducted it successfully. Under his able and progressive management the plant has been improved, any new device being added which will increase the efficiency of the works and the value of the product. The plant has a daily capacity of sixty barrels, about double the daily product at the time he took charge, and. nine men are kept constantly employed. As may be supposed, he has taken no backward steps, and, following the example set by his father, he permits no adulterants to be used in the goods bearing the name of his company. Under his able and progressive management the reputation of the product has been greatly extended, and it commands, as it should, the highest market price.      Mr. Halm resembles his father in many respects, and especially in his courteous manner and generous and hospitable disposition. He enjoys wide popularity and socially is identified with various orders, including the F. and A. M. and I. O. O. F. In religious faith he is a Lutheran; politically he affiliates with the Democratic party. His enterprise is displayed in local affairs as well as in his private business, as he is always ready to assist in any movement which promises to benefit his community, and he has served two terms as treasurer of Pulaski township, Williams county.      On December 15, 1887, he married Miss Millie M. Rankert, a daughter of Michael Rankert, now an honored resident of Bryan. This venerable gentleman was born in 1816 in Alsace (now a province of Germany), and for seven years was a soldier in the French cavalry, serving in the African campaigns, and the reminiscences of his long life are full of interest. Mr. and Mrs. Halm have had three children, viz.: Lorene, born January 6, 1890, and died when only eight months old; Jacob Charles, born April 5, 1891, and Arthur William, born September 30, 1893. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899 - Page 570   JOHN HAMMON.  This deceased gentleman was for many years actively identified with the farming interests of Richland township, Defiance county, and was one of the representative and honored citizens of his community.  He was born December 3, 1825, in Wurtemburg, Germany, but when quite young was brought to America by his mother and stepfather, being reared principally in Independence, Ohio.  When about twenty-four years of age he went to Woodville, Sandusky county, where he was employed as clerk for his brother-in-law some four years.      While living at that place Mr. Hammon was married February 3, 1858, to Miss Catherine Myers, a native of Hanover, Germany, born April 9, 1831.  When three years old she came to America with her parents.  After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Hammon continued to live in Woodville for one year, and then removed to Richland township, Defiance county, locating on a farm in Section I, North Richland precinct, where he successfully engaged in farming until called from this life on October 30, 1891.  He left to his family a good farm of one hundred and sixty acres, its well tilled fields and neat and thrifty appearance manifesting the enterprise and industry of the owner.  He took quite an active part in all local affairs, most of his death was holding the office of Justice of the peace with credit to himself and to the entire satisfaction of his constituents.  Religiously he was connected with the Lutheran Church, of which his wife is also al faithful member.      In the family of this worthy couple were ten children, as follows:  Mary C.; Eva L., now the wife of Henry Feindle; John H., who wedded Mary E. Fisher; George P., who married Mary Curns; Flora, who died at the age of nineteen years;  Henry M., who married Lizzie Clemens; Lewis F., who married Sadie Champion; William, who wedded Martha Koust; Philip E.; and August Alonzo.  The family is one of the highest respectability and worth. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899 - Page 13 Henry Hardy HON. HENRY HARDY, of Defiance, who for more than a quarter of a century has been a leading member of the Defiance County Bar, is a man of strong character and marked influence.  Possessing in a high degree the esteem of his fellow citizens, he has been called by them to various positions of trust and responsibility, and these he has filled with a fidelity which reflects credit upon him and upon the judgment of his constituents as well.      A native of West Troy, New York, he was born June 28, 1827.  His family was of pure Saxon origin, but by intermarriage with different families from Scotland and Ireland it acquired the admixture of blood known as the Scotch-Irish, a strain which has produced a large proportion of our eminent men.  Mr. Hardy's ancestors had their home for many generations in County Donegal, Ireland, where they were mainly engaged in farming and stock raising, being also more or less interested as dealers in cattle.      William Hardy, our subject's father, was born about 1794, near Mount Charles, or Letterkenny, in that county, and for a time in his youth followed the ancestral occupations with his father.  At the age of nineteen he came to America alone, and from 1813 to 1817 remained at Warrensburg, Warren county, New York.  He then located at West Troy as a dry-goods merchant, continuing in business successfully until 1836, when he came to Ohio and purchased a farm at Newcomerstown, Tuscarawas county.  His wife, Mary (McCafferty, to whom he was married at West Troy, died at their home in Ohio in 1862, and his own death occurred six years later.  They had eleven children, of whom four - Edwin, Eleanor, John and Henry - lived to adult age.      The subject of this sketch first attended school in West Troy, but after the removal of the family to this State his opportunities for an education were restricted to an attendance at the district schools of Tuscarawas county, and a night school of a grade corresponding to the grammar schools of to-day.  He was an apt pupil and made the most of his somewhat limited facilities, laying a good foundation for future progress.  He remained with his father until nearly eighteen years of age, and then left home to take a place as driver on the canal.  In this capacity he made the trip to Cleveland, but one week at the employment satisfied him, and he returned to the parental roof.  He then spent eighteen months in learning the tailor's trade, which he followed for a time, but in 1850 he located at Defiance, purchasing some timbered land.  In 1853 he married his first wife, Miss Mary Ann Platter, daughter of George Platter, Esq., a well-known farmer of Paulding county, residing twelve miles from Defiance.  The day before his marriage Mr. Hardy went to Charloe, Paulding county, to procure a license.  The first year of their wedded life was passed at Newcomerstown, Ohio, Mr. Hardy being engaged in his trade there, but afterward he bought a farm ten miles southwest of Defiance, on the Maumee river, where he lived for two years.  During this time his wife died, leaving one son, George P., now a resident of Paulding county.      In 1857 Mr. Hardy was elected recorder of Defiance county, and removed to the county seat.  He served six years in that office, being re-elected in 1860; in the meantime he studied law with Thomas McBride, and was admitted to the Bar.  In the same year he was elected to the office of prosecuting attorney for Defiance county, and was re-elected at the expiration of his term, serving four years in all.  His law practice occupied his entire attention for a time, but in 1873 he was nominated by the Democratic party as a member of the Legislature, and was elected in the following year.  At the close of his term he resumed his practice, and in 1878 he was again chosen to represent his locality in the Legislature.  During that session, 1878-79, the laws of the State were codified, the statues as then revised taking effect in 1880.  Mr. Hardy also served as mayor of Defiance before the place was chartered as a city, but with the exception of the time spent in these public duties, which were faithfully and ably performed, he has devoted his energies to professional work.      In 1859 Mr. Hardy married a second wife, Miss Elizabeth Hamilton, a lineal descendant of Gaven Hamilton, mentioned in Robert Burns' poem, "Holy Willie's Prayer."  Her father, who was also named Gaven Hamilton, was a prosperous miller near Newville, Indiana.  Mrs. Elizabeth Hardy died in 1864, leaving two children:  Mary, a successful teacher in the Defiance schools, who also keeps house for her father; and John, now engaged in railroad work in Mexico City, Mexico.  Four years after the death of his second wife, Mr. Hardy married Miss Julia Dunning, daughter of Charles Dunning, captain of a boat.  Her death occurred in 1889, one child surviving her: Henrietta, now Mrs. William C. Heth, of Fort Wayne, Indiana.  Mr. Hardy resides at No. 219 Wayne street, Defiance, in a building which was used as the first court house in Williams county.      From boyhood Mr. Hardy has been an active supporter of the Democratic party, ahs made many political speeches in this section, and served as a delegate to many conventions, Judicial, State and Congressional.  In 1896 he endorsed the Chicago platform, upholding the free coinage of silver at 16 to 1.  He is a member of the Episcopal Church, and of the Masonic fraternity, being a Knight Templar. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899 - Page 34   CHRISTIAN HARLEY.  For centuries the men of letters and learning of all countries have drawn inspiration and wisdom from the writings of the famous scholars of Germany—a country that has been so prolific in men of learning—that "studious" has become a necessary and accepted adjective in describing the national characteristics of that people. There a Luther was born, there he lived and died, and won immortality in history by his learning, piety and teachings, and there, also, was born and lived a Bismarck—one of the greatest statesmen of this or any other age; a Von Moltke—one of the greatest war generals of modern times; a Schiller and a Goethe—bright diadems in the crown of the world's poetry and literature: and countless others of matchless learning—all born in that Fatherland.      Of less fame, but of the same race, are countless thousands who emigrated from their native shores and sought homes in the United States. where they have taken a goodly part in the settlement of the country from the earliest times in its history, and been prominent factors in all the different avenues of progress and of national life. Of that lineage and race is descended the gentleman whose name opens this sketch. The family was in the kingdom of Wurtemberg, Germany, until the time of the father of our subject, John Harley, who was a soldier in the German army in the wars against Napoleon, was at one time taken prisoner, but escaped soon afterward. He lived in the small town of Weingarten, near Carlsruhe, in the grand duchy of Baden, and followed farming as an occupation. In 1835 he, with his wife Margaret (Bertsch) Harley, and their four children, emigrated to the United States, first locating at Buffalo, New York, later removing to Petersburg, Columbiana county, Ohio, where the father of the family died in 1850, and his widow in i860; both are buried at that place. The children of this couple were as follows: John, who died in Crawford county, Ohio; Alexander D., now a resident of Cleveland, Ohio; Jacob F., who died in Elyria, Ohio; and Christian, the subject of this sketch. The parents of this family were reared under the auspices of the Lutheran Church, but in later years became members of the Methodist Church, in which faith they died.      Christian Harley was born February 22, 1822, at Weingarten, Germany, and therefore was thirteen years of age when he came with his father's family to the United States. He had attended school in his native land from the age of six years, thus obtaining early in life a fair education. At the age of fourteen he left his parents' home and began life for himself; at the age of sixteen he apprenticed himself to learn the shoemaker's trade at Fallston, Beaver county, Pennsylvania. At the end of four years (having completed his trade), on December 18, 1842, he was married to Miss Regina Stelzer, born May 14, 1825, in the Kingdom of Wurtemberg, Germany, who came to the United States with her parents when but six years of age. After his marriage our subject carried on the boot and shoe business at Florence, Erie county, Ohio, until 1849, when he embarked in the dry-goods business at the same place, and was very successful, steadily acquiring property, among which was a fine farm. In 1861 learning of a good opening for the dry-goods business at Defiance, Ohio, he moved to that place, where he rented a store and purchased a stock of goods, wholly on credit, and the following spring sold his real-estate at Florence, and with the proceeds greatly increased his business. This venture at Defiance proved a success, it becoming one of the largest stores of its kind in the city. Mr. Harley conducted the store, until April, 1877, when he sold out to his sons, having then an ample fortune, and has since lived a quiet and retired life. As an honorable merchant his record is without blemish— beginning as a youth with no financial assistance, with stout heart and strong arms, combined with good habits taught him by a Christian mother, he began the battle of life and earned his way step by step to affluence, by his own labor and a constant trust in the God of the Universe.      In 1841 Mr. Harley became a member of the M. E. Church at Wellsville, Ohio, and has remained constant to the cause of religion through all his years of active business life; of the means that has been given to him he has been liberal in its use to sustain the good cause, contributing at one time twenty-five hundred dollars toward the erection of St. Paul's M. E. Church edifice at Defiance, and five hundred dollars toward building the St. Paul's M. E. Church at Toledo. In various other ways he shows his earnest, self-sacrificing and practical Christianity, while he ascribes his whole success in life to the comfort and help that Christianity has been to him, and has never regretted that day in 1841, when he united with the Methodist Church. After a service in the cause of religion of over fifty-five years, he constantly renders thanks for the benefit it has been to him. In politics he was formerly a Whig, and in later years an ardent Republican. His wife, Regina (Stelzer) Harley, died at Defiance, September 30, 1880, the mother of thirteen children, as follows: Ann Helena, born March 18, 1844, married Louis Tiedeman, of Defiance; Caroline Louisa, born December 20, 1845, married John Bertsch, of Grand Rapids, Michigan; Charles Andrew, born October 25, 1847, married Emma Pearson, and lives in Toledo; Alonzo Franklin, born August 8, 1849, married Elizabeth Bertsch, and lives in Defiance; Henry Albert, born August 23, 1851, married Phoebe Stover, and lives in Pioneer, Williams county, Ohio; Clark Clinton, born July 31, 1853, married Jenet Strong, and died in Pueblo, Colorado, May 9, 1897; C. Perry, a sketch of whom follows; Mary Matilda, born June 6. 1858, married Robert T. Whitaker, of Defiance; Edward Melton, born December 12, i860, married Lizzie Wilson, and lives in Toledo (all born at Florence) ; the following were born at Defiance: Willie Melvin, born February 21, 1863, married Dana Durbin, and lives in Pioneer, Ohio; John Abraham Lincoln, born July 10, 1865, married Addie Bellinger (his death, caused by an accident, occurred September 23, 1868); Nellie Lillian, born September 23 1868, is unmarried; and Jay De Forest, born July 1, 1871, is married to Gertrude Rout, and lives at Defiance. The father of this family was married to his present wife, Mary Stoody, April 25, 1882, and by the union there is one child, Edith May, born March 31, 1883.      The family are all members of the M. E. Church, of which the father has served as class-leader, steward and trustee at various times through a long period of years. They reside in a commodious and handsome modern dwelling built by Mr. Harley in 1877, at No. 610 Wayne street. As a Christian gentleman and good citizen Mr. Harley stands the peer of any, and as a business man his unquestioned integrity is well illustrated by the fact, that the prince of merchants, A. T. Stewart, offered him, while in New York City purchasing goods, a credit at one time to the amount of $100,000. Mr. Harley, at the age of seventy-six, is still hale and cheer­ful, with a prospect of many years of usefulness. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899 - Page 155   C. PERRY HARLEY.  This gentleman is a son of Christian Harley, mentioned above, and is one of the leading prominent and enterprising business spirits of the city of Defiance, Defiance county.      Mr. Harley was born September 10, 1855, at Florence, Ohio, but has passed most of his life at Defiance, where he came when he was but six years of age. Here, midst the best social surroundings and family influence, he was reared, and was educated in the city schools. At the age of sixteen he took his first practical business lessons in his father's store, as clerk, remaining there until he was nineteen, when, on July 9, 1874, he was married to Miss Fannie M. Holgate, a daughter of the late W. C. Holgate, of Defiance. Soon after his marriage he went to Toledo, and with a brother engaged in the fur, hat and cap business. Returning to Defiance in 1877, he and his brother, A. F. Harley, in the spring of that year bought out the father's prosperous dry-goods store, and conducted it successfully until 1882, when our subject, on account of failing health, sold out his interest to his brother, and sought other climes to find relief, passing the winter of 1881-82 at St. Augustine, Florida, and the winter of 1883-84 at San Antonio, Texas.      Returning once more to Defiance in 1883, with health restored and generally invigorated, he in the fall of that year established a dry-goods store on the corner opposite the "Russell House," furnishing the capital, and his brother-in-law, R. T. Whitaker, having a working interest, the firm taking the name of C. P. Harley & Co. This enterprise under their energetic management proved a very successful business venture, and rapidly assumed large proportions, leading in sales any store of its kind in the city by a large per cent. In 1889 our subject sold a sufficient share of his interest to make a half interest in the business to Mr. Whitaker, the firm name being changed to Harley & Whitaker, and so remaining to the present-time (1898). It is a busy place, its salesroom is continually crowded with customers; it is generally known as the "bargain store"—this is its secret of success. The proprietors being large purchasers by wholesale, secure the lowest prices, and then by quick sales and small profits benefit both themselves and customers.      Mr. Harley was one of the organizers and promoters of the Defiance Electric Light Co. (organized in 1886), and for some time was its treas­urer, but sold out his interest in 1891 to the parties who built the street railway. On the death of his father-in-law, William C. Holgate, August 13, 1888, he was elected to succeed him as president of the Merchants National Bank of Defiance, and was also made one of the joint executors in the settlement of the William C. Holgate estate, one of the largest ever administered in Defiance county, amounting to three hundred and fifty thousand dollars. Mr. Harley is still president of the bank, and has added to his career by a half interest in a boot and shoe store in Music Hall block, which, under the firm name of Harley Brothers, has been conducted since 1893; in connection with his other enterprises he is also largely interested in real estate, and in 1882 he built the Music Hall block, which he still owns; also, in 1890, the Elk block, which is owned by his wife.      In politics Mr. Harley is an ardent Republican, and while never an office seeker, yet by means and influence he gives the party stanch and liberal support. His early training in religion was under the auspices of the M. E. Church, but for some years past he has been a member of the Presbyterian Church. A bank president, dry-goods merchant, boot and shoe merchant, real-estate dealer, and a farmer operating a tract of six hundred acres one mile north of Defiance, Mr. Harley is one of the busiest men in the city, and to so successfully care for such large and varied interests re­quires administrative ability of the first order. Of great energy, possessed of good judgment, and untiring industry, public-spirited and thoroughly enterprising, Mr. Harley would be a marked man in any community. He is one of the host highly honored and respected citizens of his home city.      Mrs. Fannie (Holgate) Harley was born October 2, 1856; was educated in the Defiance school, also at the Cleveland Female Seminary, and is a talented and amiable lady. Her father, William C. Holgate, was one of the most successful and enterprising men of Defiance, and probably did more toward building up the city from a small village than any other. He was a lawyer of acknowledged and superior attainments, of broad comprehensive mind, and great financial ability. He was a bank president for many years, and was prominently identified with the interests of Defiance from 1837 to the day of his death, August 13, 1888. He was a native of Vermont, born at Burlington, November 23, 1814, of English and Scotch descent. He left two children, namely: Mrs. Fannie Harley and W. Curtis Holgate. W. Curtis Holgate was born November 29, 1854; on September 14, 1876, he was married to Florence Gleason; and to them, were born two children—William C, July 19, 1877; and Robert Gleason, October 1, 1880. The father followed farming and the breeding of fine trotting horses, and was an eminently honored and respected citizen. He spent much time in travel throughout the country. He died January 31, 1887. His widow, Mrs. Florence (Gleason) Holgate, was married May 16, 1892, to Elmer T. Clark, and now resides in Defiance.      Mr. and Mrs. C. Perry Harley have two children: Holgate C., born June 19, 1876, now manager of his father's shoe store; and Fannie Maude, born December 5, 1884. Since 1876 the family have resided at No. 512 Holgate avenue, the old homestead of Mrs. Harley's father. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899 - Page 158   MOSES M. HAVER.  Mr. Haver, the popular and genial proprietor of the "Haver House," in Sherwood, Defiance county, was born Sept. 5, 1842, in Harrison county, Ohio, a son of Robert and Mary (Coree) Haver, both natives of Greene county, Pennsylvania.  In 1845 they removed from Harrison county, Ohio, to Tuscarawas county, and in November, 1853, came to Defiance county, locating in Mark township, where they continued to make their home until their deaths.  By occupation the father was a farmer.      The children born to this worthy couple are as follows:  Thomas W., is a farmer of Mark township; Moses M., a hotel-keeper, is next in the order of birth; James is a resident of Sherwood; John, who laid down his life on the altar of his country during the Civil war, enlisting in Company E, Fourteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and dying at Ringgold, Georgia, after one month in the service; George died in infancy; Isaac is a farmer of Mark township; Everett is a resident of Sherwood; Levi is a farmer of Van Wert county, Ohio; Alexander is an agriculturist of Hicksville township, Defiance county; Elizabeth is the wife of Thomas Keesburg, of Mark township; and Matilda is the wife of William Simpson, of Paulding county, Ohio.      Coming with his parents to Defiance county, in November, 1853, Mr. Haver grew to manhood on the home farm in Delaware township, becoming thoroughly familiar with agricultural pursuits.  He was engaged in farming in Paulding county, Ohio, when the Civil war broke out, and hardly had the echoes of Fort Sumter's guns died away when he enlisted, April, 26, 1861, in Company K, Twenty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, for three months.  On the expiration of his term he was mustered out, but soon afterward re-enlisted, becoming a member of Company I, One Hundredth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with which he served until hostilities ceased.  With his command he participated in numerous battles and skirmishes, including the engagements at Franklin, Tennessee, and Etowah Creek, Georgia, and the siege of Knoxville.  On his return from the war he worked by the month on a farm in Delaware township, Defiance county, for about a year.      On the 6th of February, 1866, Mr. Haver was married in that township,  Apr. 21, 1840, a daughter of Lewis and Betsy (Gordon) Platter, honored pioneers of that township, where their deaths occurred.  Mr. and Mrs. Haver by this union had one daughter, Emma.  Mrs. Haver died July 28, 1872, and Mr. Haver afterward married Mary Brown, by which union he has four children:  Iona (now the wife of Alva Lavergne, of Waller, Ohio), Albert, John and Curtis.      After his marriage Mr. Haver located in Delaware township, where he successfully engaged in farming until 1888, when he purchased the hotel property in Sherwood, which he still owns.  In this new undertaking he has met with remarkable success, his house being a favorite resort with the traveling public.  It is very conveniently arranged and well furnished, and in all its appointments, under its present excellent management, is a first-class hotel, and is well patronized.  Politically Mr. Haver is an ardent Republican; socially he is a leading member of Hancock Post, No. 579, G. A. R. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899. ~ Page 321   THOMAS W. HAVER.  Mr. Haver, the subject of these lines, is an enterprising and progressive farmer, owning and operating a good farm of eighty acres in Section 28, Mark Township, Defiance county.      Mr. Haver is a native of Tuscarawas county, Ohio, born Dec. 21, 1840, and when a lad of twelve years accompanied his parents on their removal from that county to Defiance county, locating in Mark township, where he grew to manhood, and where he has since made his home with the exception of about seven years.      During the dark days of the Civil war he enlisted Feb. 18, 1865, in Company K, One Hundred and Eighty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was in the service until October of that year, when he was honorably discharged.  Returning to his home in Mark township he resumed farming, which occupation has always claimed his attention.      On Nov. 23, 1862, in Mark township, Defiance county, Ohio, Mr. Haver was united in marriage with Miss Susan E. Reed, a native of Richland county, Ohio, and a daughter of Adam Reed, of that county.  Three children were born to them, namely: Morton and Elmer E., who are still living; and Lewis, who died in infancy.  The wife and mother died in Delaware township, Defiance county, July 9, 1868.  In that township, Mr. C. M. Smith, of Athens county, Ohio, by whom he has five children: John, Edgar, Charles, Zeno and Frank.      The Republican party finds in Mr. Haver a stanch supporter of its principles, and he has been called upon to serve his fellow citizens in the capacity of township trustee and justice of the peace two terms.  Socially, he affiliates with Hancock Post, .G. A. R., of Sherwood, Defiance county. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899. ~ Page 407   KIDDER V. HAYMAKER.  Our subject is one of the prominent and substantial business men of Defiance.  In fact, his extensive operations in various lines have made him well known throughout the State of Ohio, his able service in connection with the State Insurance Department at Columbus, Ohio, winning him a wide reputation.  Wherever he is known he is recognized as a man of integrity, his rare abilities as a manager of large enterprises being combined with high sense of honor.      Mr. Haymaker was born Feb. 14, 1856, in Noble township, Defiance county, and is a descendant of an old English family, this branch having, however, been established in America at a very early period.  His ancestors first located in Virginia, and later we find the family settled at Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, then in Trumbull county, Ohio, from which point they made their way to the western part of the State with the advance of civilization.  The various members have always held honorable stations in life; a great-grandfather of Mr. Haymaker was an officer in the Revolutionary war, and was granted a large tract of land in recognition of his services.      Judge William D. Haymaker, our subject's father, was one of the leading men of Defiance county in his day.  He owned a farm in Noble township, near Brunersburg, where he also conducted a sawmill and a mercantile business.  His influence in public affairs was marked, and he was one of the most prominent of the organizers of the Republican party in that locality, having previously been a Whig.  In 1858 he was elected to the Sate Legislature, and his death occurred in 1859 before his term was completed.  Under the old constitution he served five years as associate judge of the county.  By his first wife, Mary (Blackman), he had two children, Adelia and Anna.  His second wife, Almira (Braucher), had one son, William A., who died in 1875.  By a third marriage, to Mrs. Elizabeth R. Hilton, neé McMaken, there were three children:  Kidder V., our subject; Carrie and Mary.  Mrs. Haymaker departed this life Aug. 23, 1898, aged seventy-seven years.  Two children by her first marriage also survive, viz.: Maria L. and Eber E.     K. V. Haymaker was educated in the schools of Defiance county, and at the age of sixteen began teaching near his home.  This occupation proving congenial, he continued it for ten years principally in Defiance county.  During this time he read law with Hill, Myers & Cameron, of Defiance, and Thomas O. Lowe, of Dayton, Ohio, and with this preparation he entered the Cincinnati Law School in the fall of 1880.  On graduating in May, 1881, he was admitted to the Bar before the supreme court at Columbus, his professional work being begun soon afterward at Defiance, in partnership with Mr. Winn.  Three years later the firm was dissolved, and a new partnership was formed with N. G. Johnson, this continuing until 1889.  In 1888 Mr. Haymaker became interested in the Defiance Home saving & Loan Association, of which he was chosen secretary and manager, and for five years he conducted the business with great success, assets to the value of a quarter of a million dollars being accumulated.  In 1893 he was appointed by William H. Hahn to the office of deputy inspector of building and loan associations for Ohio, and this position he held for one year.  On May 1, 1894, he accepted the post of secretary of the Security Building & Loan Co., at Defiance, which he organized and established on a sound and profitable basis.  In 1895 he organized the Northwestern Telephone Co., at Deviance, of which he is now president.  It is a successful venture with three hundred subscribers, the plant having cost fifteen thousand dollars.  He is also president of the Northwestern Toll Line Co., which in November, 1896, completed a telephone toll line from Defiance to Toledo at a cost of seven thousand dollars.      In October, 1881, Mr. Haymaker was married to Miss Eugenia M. Knight, of Farmers Center, Defiance county, daughter of Richard and Harriet (Firestone) Knight.  One daughter, Mildred, has blessed this union.      Mr. Haymaker has always taken a deep interest in politics, having begun to make campaign speeches for the Republican party before he was old enough to vote.  He is an eloquent and effective speaker, and has been called upon in every campaign since to present the principles of the party from the stump.  For years he was a member of the County central and the County Executive Committees, and for some time he served either as chairman or secretary of the latter.  In 1892 he was one of the alternate delegate member of the M. E. Church, and also belongs to the K. of P., the Independent Order of Foresters, in which he is high chief ranger of the State, and to the Masonic fraternity, being past master of Tuendawi Lodge, No. 195, at Defiance.  The name of this lodge is an Indian word signifying "meeting of the waters." Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899. ~ Page 200   REV. JOHN B. HEILAND, pastor of St. Michael's Catholic Church, in Adams township, Defiance county, was born in the Kingdome of Bavaria, Germany, August 30, 1839, and in 1855 came to America.  He was educated at St. Mary's College and Seminary in Cleveland, Ohio, and after being ordained to the priesthood was first in charge of the Rockport precinct, Cuyahoga county, Ohio, where he remained two years.  His next charge was the Shelby settlement at Shelby, Ohio, and, after five years spent at that place, he was for nine months assistant pastor at St. Joseph's Church, Tiffin, Ohio.  He was then for fifteen years pastor of St. John the Baptist Church, at Landeck, Allen county, Ohio, and from that place he came to Adams township, Defiance county, Jan. 1, 1893, since which time he has been the beloved pastor of St. Michael's Church.      This Church was organized in 1861 with about forty families, and the following year the present church edifice was built, it being a frame structure 77x28 feet.  The Church has had several pastors, Rev. Father Bell preceding Father Heiland, and remaining two years.  For several years a parochial school has been in successful operation in connection with the Church, and in 1889 a commodious and comfortable parsonage was erected.      The congregation, which now numbers about seventy families, has been constantly gaining under Father Heiland's pastorate.  He is a man of good address and winning manners, is a zealous, active and efficient worker for the Church, and is held in high esteem not only by the people of his own congregation, but by the residents of the community generally. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899. - Page 111   EDWARD HELLER.    This well-known resident of Delaware township, Defiance county, is a Pennsylvanian by birth, having been born Mar. 24, 1834, in Dauphin county, Pennsylvania, the birthplace of his parents, also.  Here his father, Jacob D. Heller, was married to Margaret Daniels, and for a number of years after marriage their history and interests were identified for a number of years after marriage their history and interests were identified with the familiar scenes of their native county; but in 1838, turning from these they moved to Crawford county, Ohio, which became their permanent home.  Both lived to the advanced age of eighty-five years, the husband and father having nearly completed his eighty-sixth year when called to his long home.  Of the thirteen children - seven sons and six daughters - born to them, our subject was seventh in the order of birth.      Edward Heller from the time he was four years of age was reared on a farm in Crawford  county, and agricultural pursuits have been his chief life vocation.  When a young man he worked at the trade of a house plasterer to some extent, later in life joining the ranks of those who were gallantly offering their lives in their country's defense, enlisting, February 20, 1865, in Company D, One Hundred and Eighty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry.  Happily the end of the bitter conflict was near at hand, and after a period of about eight months he was mustered out of service, and returned to the quiet of farm life.      On March 18, 1857, Mr. Heller was united in marriage with Miss Mary Miller, of Crawford county.  She was born in Harrison county, August 17, 1835, the youngest child of David and Mary (Shoos) Miller, natives of Pennsylvania.  Mr. and Mrs. Miller were the parents of ten children- six sons and four daughters.  The father died in Crawford county, the mother in Defiance county, both being about seventy-six years of age.      Soon after marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Heller moved to Wyandot county, Ohio.  After a stay there of a little more than six years, they returned to Crawford county, where they remained nearly a year and then settled in their present home in Delaware township, coming here in March, 1864, nearly a year before Mr. Heller's enlistment.  Their union has been blessed with the following children: Franklin C.; Mary A. (Mrs. William English, who died in 1895, at Bass Lake, Indiana, when about thirty-four years of age); William E.; and Laura L. (Mrs. Jacob C. Miller).      The homestead contains forty acres of land in Section 18, and the good buildings with which it is furnished have been erected by Mr. Heller.  He is a member of Hancock Post, G. A. R., and in political faith is a Republican.  He is his wife are members of the United Brethren Church. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899.   HON. W. D. HILL.  This gentleman holds by right of conquest a place among the ablest and most distinguished sons of the Buckeye State, his influence extending far beyond local limits. As a lawyer, politician and orator he has few equals, and the story of his rise to his present position in life, notwithstanding the disadvantages of early poverty, cannot fail to convey a helpful lesson.      Mr. Hill comes of patriotic stock, his great-grandfathers on both sides having been soldiers in the Revolutionary army, while both his grandfathers served in the war of 1812. He was born October 1, 1833, in Nelson county, Virginia, son of Edmund M. and Elizabeth (Hargrave) Hill, who were also natives of the Old Dominion. In 1849 the family came to Ohio, settling upon a farm, near Jamestown, Greene county. As the eldest of a family of eleven children, Mr. Hill's early life was calculated to establish habits of industry, and for some years before he attained his majority he had charge of his father's farm. His prospects for an education were most discouraging, but his dauntless will was early shown in the overcoming of obstacles which to a youth of less force of character would have seemed insurmountable. In 1853 he purchased a scholarship in Antioch College at Yellow Springs, Ohio, and entered as a student, supporting himself while there by sawing wood, tilling gardens, or in any other employment that could be secured. In the winter he taught school, and by using the closest economy even in his food, which he cooked for himself, he managed to spend three years at college. In the meantime he became deeply interested in political questions of the day, and being too independent to read a borrowed paper, he obtained the money to subscribe for the "Cincinnati Enquirer" by sawing wood at night. His ability as a public speaker was recognized as early as 1853, when he made an address in support of the principles of the Democratic party, and in 1854 he canvassed Greene county for his party. He was especially active in opposing the "Know-Nothing" movement. His legal studies were begun under the guidance of James M. Hunt, of Springfield, Ohio; but journalistic work tempted him aside from his profession, and in 1858 he became the editor of the "Ohio Press,'' the successor of the "Democratic Expositor." This venture ended in disaster, and Mr. Hill not only lost his previous savings but was involved in debt. He continued his preparation for his profession, and in September, 1859, was admitted to the Bar at the fall term of the district court at Springfield. From the first Mr. Hill met with a flattering degree of success, and in 1861 the law firm of Hill & Snyder was formed, which won a goodly share of the legal business of the locality. In that year Mr. Hill was elected mayor of Springfield over James L. Torbert, the Republican candidate, and this victory was the more gratifying from the fact that his opponent was a leader of his party and a popular favorite. In June, 1863, Mr. Hill removed to Defiance, and in the following year he took an active part in the Congressional campaign, making speeches at various points in the district. He made hosts of friends, and, his powers as a leader being recognized, he was nominated in 1865 as a member of the State Legislature. He was elected against great odds by a majority of two hundred votes, and was re-elected in 1867. So marked was the impression made by his eloquence and logic that in 1869 he was invited to speak in behalf of his party in Licking, Muskingum, Coshocton, Tuscarawas and other counties in Ohio, and his effective work in that campaign added greatly to his reputation as a debater while contributing to the success of the party. He also aided in the gubernatorial contests of 1871 and 1873, his friend William Allen being elected governor in the latter campaign. In 1875 Mr. Hill was appointed by the governor to the office of superintendent of insurance for the State, without solicitation on his part, and against powerful influences exerted in behalf of other persons. He held the position three years, winning the respect of all parties as an honest and capable official, but rather than assume the attitude of an applicant for a second term he retired. On July 4, 1878, he was nominated for Congress in the Sixth District, and elected, his service during his term adding new laurels to his reputation. In June, 1882, he was again nominated for Congress, and gained the election by a majority of seven hundred and fifty-four, a most flattering vote under the circumstances, his opponent being Colonel J. H. Brigham, an able and popular man, who was then master of the Ohio State Grange. On this occasion Mr. Hill ran five hundred votes ahead of his ticket in the district and more than one hundred votes in his own county. The previous year the Republican majority was nine hundred and eighteen. In 1884 he was elected a third time, having been nominated by the convention held at Ottawa in that year.      Mr. Hill was a delegate to the National Convention of his party at Cincinnati in 1880, when General Hancock was made the standard bearer, but he warmly supported Allen G. Thurman for the nomination, in accordance with the instructions of his constituents. Other party leaders from Ohio who had been similarly instructed deserted the "Old Roman," and Mr. Hill openly denounced their conduct with his usual force and earnestness. However, when the choice was once made he supported the ticket with characteristic zeal, making powerful and effective speeches through Ohio, Indiana and Pennsylvania. In the campaign of 1884 he made one hundred and sixty addresses in support of Cleveland in Ohio, Indiana, Virginia and Michigan, thirty of them being given in Virginia.      On June 3, 1862, Mr. Hill was married to Miss Augusta B. March, who was born June 14, 1839. Her father, Thomas C. March, was a native of Maine; her mother, Anna D. Cureton, was born in Camden, South Carolina, and in 1824 was one of the young girls who strewed flowers before LaFayette on the occasion of his visit to that city. Both parents were prominent adherents of the M. E. Church. Mr. March had gone to Alabama and Mississippi when a youth of nineteen, and was engaged in mercantile business there for nearly thirty years; but, as the events which preceded the Civil war gave warning of the impending trouble, he placed his large fortune in available shape and removed to the North. Mr. and Mrs. Hill have an interesting family of four children: Alice L., born April 5, 1863; Anna E., November 8, 1866; Mary V., June 3, 1870; and Mattie T., October 8, 1873.      In 1891 Mr. Hill, finding his health badly shattered by over work, he removed to Kalispell, Montana, to renew his strength in the invigorating air of that State. He did some important professional work while there, but much of his time was spent in hunting and in camping out with no one but Indians as companions. Living thus "near to Nature's heart," his health was completely restored, and in the fall of 1896 he returned to his home and business in Defiance, and with his old fire and eloquence took part in the memorable campaign of that year.      Mr. Hill is about five feet, nine inches in height, well proportioned, with erect carriage, and is always on the alert in mind and body. As a public speaker he is both eloquent and convincing, his political speeches being unexcelled. His gifts are of no less value in the court room, and he is especially successful in the presentation of a case before a jury. He is regarded as a most skillful examiner of witnesses, his keen and quick perceptions enabling him to bring out the truth, however obscured by a tangled web of conflicting testimony. As a student he is methodical and persevering, his researches covering a wide range. But however he may be admired for his abilities it is as the genial, generous, kindly man, pure in life and straightforward and incorruptible in character that he is best known, and upon these endearing qualities does his fame chiefly rest among his wide circle of friends. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899.   JOHN A. HIRES.  This popular and enterprising merchant of Mark Center, Defiance county, has evidently found the key to substantial success in life. As a business man he holds an enviable rank, while as a citizen he is highly esteemed among all classes.      Mr. Hires was born July 7, 1857, in Marshall county, Illinois, but since his eleventh year he has been a resident of Ohio. In 1868 his parents, Josiah N. and Louisa (Beard) Hires, removed from the old home in Illinois to Van Wert, Ohio, and in 1880 they settled in Mark Center, where they now reside. Our subject is second in a family of five children—two sons and three daughters: Amanda (deceased), John A. (our subject), William E., Ida, Viola (Mrs. William Wagner, residing in Mark Center with her three children—Clyde, Fern and Margaret).      During his boyhood Mr. Hires received an excellent education in the schools of Van Wert, completing his studies in the high school. In 1882 he located at Mark Center, and for three years was employed as a clerk in a store there. With the practical knowledge thus acquired, he started in mercantile life on his own account, and has since continued with marked success, his fine stock of goods, and his judicious management of his business, bringing him a constantly increasing trade. He owns one hundred and sixty acres of land in Mark township, and Mrs. Hires owns forty acres in the same township.      On August 27, 1885, Mr. Hires was married at Nevada, Wyandot county, Ohio, to Miss Flora M. Welty, of that county, where her father, William Welty, is a prominent resident. Four sons have blessed this union, their names and dates of birth being as follows: Charles O., September 26, 1887; Ray Welty, July 3, 1889; Negley, August 8, 1892; and Fred E., November 10, 1896. The parents are leading members of the Methodist Church at Mark Center, Mrs. Hires being an ardent worker in the Sabbath-school and leader of the music therein; they are also identified with the I. O. G. T., and for two years Mrs. Hires has been Superintendent of the Juvenile Temple. Mr. Hires has always taken an active part in movements tending to promote the welfare of the community. Since settling at Mark Center he has been chosen to numerous township offices, in all of which he has served the public with ability and fidelity.      Mrs. Hires was born October 9, 1859, received her education at Oak Ridge, Ohio, and for six years taught school in Wyandot county. She has five brothers and four sisters living, to-wit: Ellen is the wife of V. Pease, of Nevada, by whom she has one child—Verdie; Mary is the wife of Joseph Keifer, of Nevada, by whom she has three children—Elmer, Vioma and Loney; Louisa is the wife of Smith Gregg, of Nevada, by whom she has two sons—Albert L. and Fred M.; Henry C. and James O. (twins) come next in the order of birth, of whom—Henry lives at Boulder, Colorado, is married and has had four children—Jessie, Grace and Alma—and Howard; James Otis, the other twin, lives in Wyandot county; Marion is married and has four daughters and one son—Minnie, Lola, Nina, Chloe and There; Josephine is the wife of Frank Morris, by whom she has two daughters— Dosie and Lillie; Doctor S. F. Welty, of Hicksville, Ohio, comes next; and Garfield is the youngest. One brother, Washington, coming after Marion, died March 17, 1894. The parents of Mrs. Hires were married August 5, 1838; the mother died December 11, 1893. Grandfather John Welty was a native of Pennsylvania, and came to Ohio in early times. By his wife Catherine (Robrough), also a Pennsylvanian, he had two daughters and four sons, of whom—William (Mrs. Hires' father) is still living in Wyandot county, Ohio, at the age of eighty-two years. He purchased his present farm from the United States Government. Mrs. Hires' maternal grandfather, Ezekiel Otis, a native of Ohio, married Mary Miller, of the same State, and they had three sons and one daughter, of whom Marilla, the mother of Mrs. Hires, died in November, 1895, aged seventy-six years and six months, her death being the only one to occur in the family during the long period of half a century.      Great-grandfather Hires came from Highland Germany, and the great-grandmother came from Scotland. The great-grandfather settled in Virginia, where Grandfather Abraham was born and raised, and there married Lorana Peterson. They migrated to Van Wert county, Ohio, where Father Hires was born and raised, and where he married Louisa Beard December 18, 1852. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899. J. H. Hockman JOHN H. HOCKMAN.  This well-known member of the Defiance County Bar is now serving as judge of the probate court of that county.  It is seldom that a lawyer achieves so marked a success in as short a time as has elapsed since Mr. Hockman entered the profession, and the ease with which he has won recognition may be attributed to the fact that his fine native ability had been previously developed and ripened by thorough general culture, and a wide experience in other fields.      Mr. Hockman is a native of Tiffin township, Defiance county, having been born there June 2, 1856.  His parents, Henry and Caroline (Shepmire) Hockman, were both born in Germany, and came to this country about 1840, locating in Defiance county, where the father, a most industrious and frugal citizen, followed the carpenter's trade, and also engaged in clearing and cultivating land, opening up two or three farms.  He died in March, 1870.  His widow, who is still living, married William Rath, a prominent citizen of Tiffin township, Defiance county, where for many yeas he has been a justice of the peace.      Judge Hockman's abilities were shown at an early age of his use of every available opportunity for acquiring an education.  He first attended the schools of Defiance, then after a course in the high school there studied for a time in the high school at Stryker, Ohio, and in the university at Ada, Ohio.      The means necessary for pursuing this extended course were obtained by teaching in the intervals of study, and as he found that occupation congenial he engaged in it regularly when his school days ended.  From 1882 until 1884 he was principal of the schools of Evansport, Ohio, and in 1884 and 1885 he held the same position at Fayette, Fulton county, Ohio.  He then returned to Evansport, and was in charge of the schools there until 1890.  During this time he gained a high reputation as an educator, and for five years was a member of the board of examiners of Defiance county, serving as president for two yeas and secretary for the same length of time.  From 1885 to 1890 he read law with Harris & Cameron, and while thus fitting himself for future honors he was elected, in 1887, to the office of justice of the peace and served until 1890.  In June of that year he was admitted to the Bar upon examination before the supreme court at Columbus, Ohio, and began to practice at Defiance, continuing alone until July 19, 1893, when a partnership was formed with W. H. Hubbard.  As a practitioner he makes no specialties, and his clientage extends throughout his own and adjoining counties.  In 1894 he was admitted to practice before the United States Federal Courts, and his firm has cases before the United States Supreme Court.  Successful as an advocate, he was chosen in 1896 to another branch of legal work, the judicial, the people emphasizing their expression of confidence in him by giving a large majority as probate judge.  At the same time W. H. Hubbard, his partner, was elected judge of the Court of Common Pleas of Defiance county.      Politically a Democrat, Judge Hockman has for the past five years been active and influential in the leadership of the local organization.  He was chairman of the county central and executive committees in 1891 and 1892, and has repeatedly served as a delegate to Judicial, State and Congressional Conventions.  As a political speaker his abilities are appreciated, and for five years his services have been in demand, thirty-six speeches having been made in 1896 under the auspices of various committees.  In local affairs of a non-political nature the Judge is also an interested worker.  Fraternally he is a member of the Masonic Order and of the K. of P.      Judge Hockman has an interesting family, and resides in a large and comfortable house, built by himself, at the corner of Walnut and High streets, Defiance.  He was married June 8, 1883, to Miss Clara F. Ackerman, of Evansport, daughter of Henry F. and Clarissa (Mapes) Ackerman.  Her ancestors in the maternal line came to America with William Penn.  Two children bless this union: Florence L., born Sept. 14, 1885; and Port Ackerman, born Nov. 16, 1888. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899. ~ Page 252   JACOB P. HOFMEISTER.  Mr. Hofmeister, who owns and operates a good farm of one hundred and forty acres in Section 7, Hicksville Township, Defiance county, was born Sept. 13, 1849, in Germany, and was about three years old when, with his parents, Jacob and Fredricka Hofmeister he crossed the broad Atlantic and became a resident of the New World.  The family made their home in Fostoria, Ohio, until 1861, when they removed to Hicksville township, Defiance county, where the mother died in 1886.  The father is still living, and is one of the highly esteemed citizens of his community.      The subject of this sketch was reared on the home farm, and after his marriage he continued to engage in its operation for eight years.  At the end of that time he removed to Clinton county, Missouri, where he lived for two years, and then returned to Defiance County.  For nine years he engaged in farming with J. M. Ainsworth, and in August, 1893, purchased the farm on which he is now living, locating thereon a year later.  To its cultivation and further improvement he has since given his time and attention with most gratifying results.      In Hicksville township, Mr. Hofmeister was married to Miss Catherine Moore, on Dec. 24, 1873.  She was born in Medina county, Ohio, Feb. 22, 1849, a daughter of Francis and Mary Moore, who came to Defiance county in 1854 and took up their residence in Hicksville township, where both died.  Mr. and Mrs. Hofmeister have two sons: Frank J. and Harry E. Parents and children are all identified with the Lutheran Church.  Of a social genial disposition, Mr. Hofmeister makes many friends and is held in high regard by all who know him.  For two years he most capably served as trustee of Hicksville township. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899. ~ Page 467   EDWARD PAYSON HOOKER - To the men of "Merrie England," and their ever civilizing influences, the whole world is to a large extent indebted for its progress, during past centuries.  Go where you will to any part of the habitable globe, and there you will find Englishmen in the van of commerce and enterprise.  Stout-limbed, with "hearts of oak," they have been marked figures on thousands of battlefields, not only in their own "tight little island," but in every portion of the wide world.  England's men of renown are innumerable; the marks they have left on the pages of law are precedents for our own code of the present day; as statesmen, they are quoted and cited from every civilized rostrum; while in religion they were the earliest champions and defenders of the inalienable right to everyone to worship God according to his conscience.  To the United States England gave a Washington, the Patriot, General and President, besides thousands of others who have done with historic lustre upon the scroll of the great Republic's fame.  Her citizens have ever been in the fore-front as educators and statesmen, as well as warriors upon many a bloody field, where the fight was for liberty and right.  To such lineage is authentically traced the ancestry of the subject of this review.      As far back as the fourteenth century, the Hooker family were of such prominence in wars, statesmanship and religion, that records of them were kept and inscribed on the pages of history.  They were a family of substance and of the higher class of gentry, among them being Knights and Baronets, while one of them, Sir Richard Hooker, was Lord Mayor of London.  The known genealogy of the Hooker family, in direct line to our subject, begins about 1450 or 1460 with John Hooker, mayor of the City of Exeter, England.  His son, Robert, was also a mayor of that city, and the latter's son, John Hooker, was a member of Parliament, and also "Antiquarian and Historian Chancellor of the City of Exeter."  The last named son, Thomas Hooker, was the father of the Rev. Thomas Hooker, who founded the family of America in 1633.  Remotely, members of the family were among the staunchest supporters of the Church of England; but some of them became "dissenters," for which they were persecuted, notably one, the Rev. Thomas Hooker, who fled to Holland to escape arrest on account of his religious belief and practices.  He was an able and devout man, one of great influence among his compatriots.  He afterward secretly returned to London, and very narrowly escaped arrest, had which occurred, these lines would doubtless never have been written, as they made "short shrift" in those days, and religious martyrs were numerous.  In 1632 he emigrated on the ship "Griffin" with a colony of congenial spirits, locating and for four years residing at Newtown (now Cambridge), Massachusetts, then with a company of about one hundred others, went to Connecticut, and there founded the city of Hartford, in 1636.  He built and was pastor of the first church ever erected in that city, or in Connecticut, of which he wrote the greater part, and which was so like the principles laid down in the Declaration of Independence of 1776, that both may almost be said to have originated from his pen.  He was a man of marked piety and learning, and was the author of Congregational Polity in the United States.  He was born July 7, 1586, was married in 1624 to Susanna ___, and died July 7, 1647, leaving a family of five children, two sons - John and Samuel - and three daughters.  John Hooker returned to England, and there became a minister of the Established Church.  Many of Rev. Thomas Hooker's descendants have become historical characters of national prominence, among whom may be mentioned:  Fighting Joe Hooker," a famous Union general of the great Rebellion; Commander Edward Hooker, of the United States Navy; John Hooker, chief justice of Connecticut, whose wife was Isabella Beecher, sister to Rev. Henry Ward Beecher; and others.      Rev. Thomas Hooker's son, the Rev. Samuel Hooker, was born in 1633, was married September 22, 1658, to Mary Willett, and died in the ministry at Farmington, Connecticut, November 6, 1697.  Mary Willett was a daughter of Captain Thomas Willett, who was the first mayor of New York City.  She was born at Plymouth, Massachusetts, November 10, 1637, was married there September 22, 1658, and died at Norwalk, Connecticut, June 24, 1712.  From her nine sons come all Hookers who are descended from Rev. Thomas Hooker, first settler of Hartford, Connecticut.  Her remains lie buried in the graveyard attached to what is known as "the First Church" at Hartford, Connecticut.  The grave was marked by a slate head-stone, which, after being exposed to the elements and storms of over two and a half centuries, became sadly defaced, and some of her descendants replaced the old slab by a substantial granite monument, which was finished in 1890, and now marks her grave.  The contributions for its erection, costing $342, came from all points - from the Atlantic to the Pacific coasts - in one case from Italy.      Rev. Samuel Hooker and his wife had a family of eleven children, the fourth child in the order of birth being John Hooker, who was born February 20, 1664, was married in 1687, and had a family of ten children.  Of this family was a son, Hezekiah Hooker, who was married October 30, 1717, and had a family of ten children, among whom was a son, William Hooker, born at Hartford, January 20, 1729, married twice, (first) to Rachel ___ and (second) to Mary ___.  Rachel had four children, and Mary had eleven children, among whom was a son.  Increase Mosely Hooker, born November 4, 1765, at Hartford Connecticut, and was married ___ 17, ___, to Lois Wilcox, who died in Truxton, New York, 1813.  He moved to Truxton, Corland county, New York, where he was a pioneer, entered land, erected a grist and saw mill, and operated same, becoming a man of mark in his vicinity.  He was possessed of fine physique, stood six feet three inches in height, and when of advanced age stood erect and straight as an arrow.  He died at the residence of his son-in-law, Samuel Foreman, at Onondaga Hollow, Onondaga county, New York, in 1849, aged eighty-four years.      Of his family, two sons, Harley Hooker and Chellis (a twin brother) were born at Hartford, Connecticut, December 9, 1792, and as soon as his education was far enough advanced Harley began the study of medicine at Auburn, New York, where he graduated.  In 1827 he was married at Salina, New York, where he graduated.  In 1827 he was married at Salina, New York (now included in the city of Syracuse), to Miss Mary Beardsley, who was born at Wethersfield, Connecticut, in 1801.  Doctor Hooker began the practice of his profession in Salina in 1825, thence moved to Auburn, New York, in 1828, and for five years was the physician and surgeon for the State's prison at that place.  Subsequently he practiced for six years at Henrietta, Monroe county, New York, and in 1839 migrated west with his family, locating same year at Rockton, Winnebago county, Illinois, where he continued in the practice of his profession until his death, which occurred March 16, 1867.  He was a man of fine attainments, and as a member of the medical profession ranked among the foremost of his time.  His widow died at Rockton May 27, 1877.  They had a family of six children namely:  (1) William C., born at Auburn, New York, September 13, 1828, married Mary C. McQuary; he is an attorney at Carthage, Illinois, (2) James H., born June 23, 1830, moved to Sacramento, California, in 1853, where he was engaged in fruit growing; he was married there to Elizabeth Spencer in 1871, and died there in 1874. (3) Edward Payson, the subject of this sketch, born September 1, 1832, at Auburn, New York. (4) Mary Lewis, born August 24, 1834, married Gustave Streckewald, at Rockton, Illinois, in 1862, moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1863, removing thence in 1891 to Los Angeles, California, where they now live.  (5) George R., born September 24, 1836, married Minnie Martin, and died at Rockton, Illinois, in 1874, where his widow also died in 1875.  (6) Frances Elizabeth, born September 18, 1838, was married in 1862 to G. Henry Hollister, at Rockton, Illinois, and is now a widow, living at Sioux falls, South Dakota.      Edward Payson Hooker, one of the last named family, and the subject of this sketch, was born September 1, 1832, at Auburn, New York, and was a lad of seven years when he was brought by his parents to Rockton, Illinois.  There he passed his early years, attending school winters and helping on his father's farm in the summers.  At seventeen he attended school at Beloit, Wisconsin, which was only four miles from Rockton, to prepare for college; but on account of failing eyesight he was obliged to give up his studies, during the first year, and returned home.  During the two following winters he taught school, and then spent a full year under private instruction at Rockford, Illinois, in the study of higher mathematics, surveying, civil engineering, etc.  His twentieth year was the last he spent at the old homestead, at Rockton, and in the winter of 1852-53 he went to Chicago, where for three years he was employed in the wholesale and retail drug store of J. H. Reed & Co., and the succeeding three years was in the employ of M. D. Gilman & Co., wholesale grocers, same city.  Having thus acquired a thorough business training, he came to Defiance, Ohio, March 3, 1859, where he had made provisions for the partnership under the firm name of Backus, Lindenberger & Hooker, they opening up a large general store, which for five years was profitably conducted.  In 1864 he sold his interests in the business.  In the summer of 1865 he moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and there engaged in the commission business - flour, grain, seeds, etc. - under the firm name of E. P. Hooker & Co., continuing the same about five years, until 1870, in which year he returned with his family to Defiance, where he took an interest in the Defiance Manufacturing Co., a large concern, of which he was made secretary and treasurer, filling the duties of that responsible position for fifteen years or until the affairs of that company were wound up.  For some years he had been assistant cashier of the Merchants National Bank of Defiance, Ohio, and in 1886 was appointed cashier, succeeding Benjamin L. Abell (deceased), and has in that position efficiently looked after the best interests of the bank to the present time.  In addition to his other interests, he in 1880 with John Crowe, under the firm name of Crowe & Hooker, operated a plant or the manufacture of elm staves and hoops, which was successfully conducted until 1895, when the firm closed out their business.  On the death of his brother-in-law, William C. Holgate, who was president of the Merchants National Bank, August 13, 1888, Mr. Hooker, as joint executor of the large estate, has looked after the various interests faithfully, until now (1897) final settlements will soon be made, and he will be thus released from great care and responsibility, as the estate amounts to about three hundred and fifty thousand dollars, or over.      In politics he is an ardent Republican, and active in advocating the principles of the party; was chairman of the Republican County Executive Committee six or eight years, and has been sent as delegate to various Republican State and Congressional Conventions.  He is a member of the Masonic fraternity; since twelve years of age he has been a member of the Congregational and Presbyterian Churches, serving as elder of the latter for twenty-five years.      On September 27, 1860, Mr. Hooker was married to Arabella E. Holgate, a half sister of William C. Holgate (deceased), who came to Defiance in 1835.  Their father, Curtis Holgate, moved from Utica to Defiance in 1837, laid out and was half owner of the original plat of the village (now city) of Defiance.  She was the youngest child, and was born in Defiance November 16, 1839.  By their union there are four children, namely: Fannie Annette, born May 29, 1862 (unmarried); Minnie E., born December 28, 1864, married Charles F. Ferguson, of Defiance; William H., born August 9, 1868, at Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Edward Bernard, born February 5, 1871.  All the children born at Defiance except William H.  The mother of this family died very suddenly of pulmonary apoplexy at midnight, New Year's eve, January 1, 1892.  As her spirit passed into immortality the bells were ringing in the glad New York, and before their sweet cadence had ceased her soul had sought the far beyond in everlasting peace.  In her life she was a true woman, wife and mother, a devout Christian, and very earnest and active in church and society work, and was sadly missed not only by the loved ones at home but by the entire community.      In describing the salient characteristics of Edward Payson Hooker, one verdict is given by those who know him best, and that is pre-eminent and practical truthfulness and integrity, combined with great executive ability, place him upon the plane of business as the equal of any of his compeers; while as a citizen and gentleman his whole life has been one of integrity and Christian consistency.  Mr. Hooker and family reside at No. 667 Jefferson street, Defiance, in a commodious house, built by himself in 1872. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899.   WILLIAM C. HOLGATE.   For many years Mr. Holgate, our subject, was a leading citizen of this section, and this volume would not be complete without an account of his effective work in developing the varied activities which mark a civilized community of the highest type.  To his energy, foresight, and public spirit many beneficial enterprises owed their success, and his career demonstrated that a man may gain a commanding place in business circles through methods which bring lasting good to the people at large.      Mr. Holgate was of English descent on the paternal side, and the first ancestor of whom we have record was Dr. Holgate, a surgeon in the British army, who came to America in Colonial times, and died while in the service, his remains being buried at sea between Boston and Halifax.  Dr. Holgate had but one son, Asa, our subject's grandfather, who served as a private in the British army during the French and Indian wars, and afterward settled near Brattleboro, Vermont, where he married a daughter of Captain Kathan, a Scotchman, who owned lands for nine miles along the Connecticut river in that locality.  Curtis Holgate, the father of our subject, was born at Dummerston, Vermont, August 28, 1773, the youngest in a large family of children.  As the real estate which he might have hoped to inherit became lost to the family, he started in business life without capital, but through industry and economy he managed to save from his earnings the sum of fifteen hundred dollars by the time he was thirty-six years old.  In the meantime his first wife died, and he married Miss Alvira Prentice, the daughter of a physician in northern Vermont, and soon afterward he located at Burlington, in the same State.      There he invested his funds in the construction of extensive wharves and docks, his enterprise gaining for him the title of "the Napoleon of Burlington."  His docks were completed just before the war of 1812, and were of great service of Commodore McDonough when he fitted out his forces for the battle of Plattsburg.  During the war Mr. Holgate, with others, prepared and manned a gunboat which repulsed a British vessel that had cannonaded the city, doing special damage to Mr. Holgate's house.  At the close of the war he sold his docks for twenty-two thousand dollars and removed to a farm two miles south of Burlington, his real-estate holdings including at that time about eight hundred acres, a portion of which was on the other side of the lake.  He laid out the town of Port Douglas, where he built a wharf, warehouse, hotel, store, and sawmill, and he also purchased six or eight vessels for lake traffic.  After a year he sold Port Douglas to a steamboat company, receiving all his expenditures, with six per cent interest, and later he disposed of his other property in the vicinity and arranged to move to the West.  The journey was made in one of his own boats by way of the Northern canal, and he stopped at Troy, New York, to procure a stock of general merchandise.  He then proceeded by way of the Erie canal to Salina, New York, now a part of the city of Syracuse, where he spent one year conducting a store and two salt works purchased soon after his arrival.  His children being of an age to require better educational facilities than the locality afforded, he removed to Utica, New York, for a time, but in 1835 he came to Ohio and located at Defiance.  He was almost the first man to bring any capital to the town, and with characteristic enterprise he engaged in real-estate operations, purchasing one half of the site of Defiance and one third of the site of Napoleon.  In 1836 he removed to Buffalo, New York, but in the fall of 1837 he returned to Defiance, where his death occurred January 15, 1840.  He was a man of strict moral principles, and in every walk of life was governed by a high sense of honor, his sterling qualities of character winning for him the esteem of all who knew him.      The subject of our sketch was born November 23, 1814, at Burlington, Vermont, and in 1835 was graduated from Hamilton College, near Syracuse, New York, that institution six yeas later conferring upon him the additional degree of A. M.  He studied law with William Crafts, of Utica, New York, and Horace Sessions, of Defiance, being admitted to the Bar of the Supreme Court of Ohio in 1838.  His abilities commanded success from the start, and, while he served for some time as clerk of the court and as prosecuting attorney, his most notable professional achievements and as prosecuting attorney, his most notable professional achievements were in the line of general practice.  In 1844 he was chosen to present a petition to the Legislature for the separation and organization of Defiance county, and during the following winter he went to Columbus, where he succeeded in securing the enactment desired, notwithstanding strenuous opposition from the enemies of the measure.       On his return to Defiance he received a royal reception from the citizens, who fully appreciated his efforts in their behalf.  He was instrumental in securing for his town the Wabash & Pacific railroad and the Baltimore & Ohio railroad on lines surveyed and laid out by himself and others, and for some time he served as a director in the latter.  The town of Holgate was named for him by the citizens in recognition of his efforts in securing that railroad for the place.  He was the prime mover in the organization of the Defiance County Agricultural Society, and for years took upon himself all the business cares of the society, while for many years previous to his death he was president of the Merchants National Bank, and of the Defiance Manufacturing Company.  His energy and determination were irresistible when applied to the prosecution of a definite plan, all his enterprises proving successful, and his dealings characterized by unwavering integrity.  He accumulated a large fortune, and at his death, which occurred August 13, 1888, he left an estate valued at three hundred and fifty thousand dollars.      As a citizen Mr. Holgate took much interest in public questions, being first a Whig and later a Republican; in religious faith he was a Presbyterian, the church at Defiance receiving from him substantial support.  In 1850 he was married to Miss Mary Hoelrich, who died June 6, 1864.  He had two children:  W. Curtis Holgate, born November 29, 1854, and Miss Fannie Maude Holgate, born October 2, 1856.      W. CURTIS HOLGATE on September 14, 1876 was married to Florence Gleason, and to them were born two children - William C., July 19, 1877, an Robert Gleason, October 1, 1880.  Mr. Holgate followed farming, also was interested in the breeding of fine trotting horses, and was an eminently honored and respected citizen.  He spent much time in travel throughout the country.  He died January 31, 1887.  His widow, Mrs. Florence (Gleason) Holgate, was married May 16, 1893, to Elmer T. Clark, and now resides in Defiance. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899.   WILLIAM HORR.   This leading agriculturist of Adams township, Defiance county, is one of our representative citizens, and although he does not claim the United States as his native land, he has shown that he possesses the true American spirit by two years of honorable service in the cause of liberty during the war of the Rebellion.      Mr. Horr  was born Sept. 7, 1835, in Cornwall, England, a son of John and Mary Horr, both of whom died in the old country.  When he was about seventeen years of age Mr. Horr crossed the Atlantic, locating first in Upper Canada, where he spent several years in farming.  He then removed to Lorain county, Ohio, and after three or four years of similar work he enlisted, in August, 1861, in the Second Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, with which he passed two years in active service.  His health being much broken, he returned to Lorain county at the end of his term, and on partially recovering he took a fortunate step in securing as a life partner Miss Sarah Fishburn, also a native of England, their marriage occurring Aug. 10, 1864.  He purchased a farm in Lorain county and began housekeeping, but in 1867 they decided to sell that place and removed to Defiance county, where he bought his present homestead in Adams township.  This is an attractive farm of one hundred and twenty acres, upon which he has erected good buildings, and his excellent management shows a thorough knowledge of agricultural science.  He and his wife take an active interest in all that pertains to the advancement of the community, and while he is not a politician he gives attention as a citizen to the various questions of the day, having given his allegiance to the Republican party ever since he came to this county.      Mrs. Horr is also a native of England, having been born in Lincolnshire, May 14, 1845, a daughter of Paul and Jane Fishburn.  She was only two yeas old where he parents came to America, and her youth was mainly spent in Lorain county.  Seven children have blessed the home of Mr. and Mrs. Horr, all of whom are living except Jennie, who died in infancy.  Mildred is the wife of James Turney, of Wauseon, Fulton county, Ohio.  Burt married Miss Clara Tittle, of Adams Ridge, Defiance county, Ohio; William married Miss Rosa Seaman, of Mexico, New York; George married Miss Daisy Williams, of Jewell, Defiance county, Ohio; Everett  and Lloyd are still unmarried. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899. ~ Page 388   STEPHEN HORSEY.  If one desires to gain a vivid realization of the rapid advance in civilization which the last few decades have brought about, he can listen to the stories that men who are still living among us, and by no means overburdened with years, can tell of their boyhood. The log cabin home in the clearing, the still ruder school house with its rough seats made of slabs, its limited range of studies and its brief terms arranged on the subscription plan, the routine of work at home unrelieved by any of the modern devices by which machinery is made to do in a short time what formerly occupied the entire year—these and many similar descriptions will bring up in sharp contrast the advantages of to-day. The subject of this sketch, a highly respected citizen of Noble township. Defiance county, has many interesting reminiscences of this sort. He is a native of the county, his birth occurring in Defiance township, May 26, 1836, and in its development and prosperity he has borne an important part.      Thompson Horsey, father of our subject, was born in Maryland about 1811, was one of the first settlers of Defiance county, where he was united in marriage with Matilda Travis. They began housekeeping in Defiance township, and took an active and prominent part in its upbuilding and advancement. Both died in Defiance county, the father in 1853, the mother in 1843. Our subject was the only son in their family of five children, and amid scenes of frontier life he grew to manhood, aiding in the arduous task of transforming the wild land into cultivated fields. In Defiance county he was married, in 1857, to Miss Susanna Hilton, a native of Noble township, that county, and they have had eight children, namely: Walter and Wallace (twins, Wallace being deceased), Harriet (deceased), William L., Ezra, Franklin, Irvin and Ernest. Harriet died at the age of nineteen years. Of this family, Walter married Harriet Kennedy, of Noble township, Defiance county, and they reside in Toledo; William L. is in North Dakota; Ezra married Agnes Bergmyer, of Defiance township, and they make their home in the city of Defiance; Franklin wedded Mabel Smith, of Defiance, and they reside in that city; Irvin married Edith Coulp, of Defiance, and they live in Toledo.      After his marriage, Mr. Horsey located upon his present farm in Noble township, consisting of two hundred and eighteen acres of fine farming land, which he has placed under a high state of cultivation and improved with good buildings. Throughout life his occupation has been farming, and in his chosen calling he has met with excellent success. He has held the office of treasurer of Noble township, but has never cared for political positions, preferring to devote his entire time and attention to his business interests. He is always mentioned as one of the invaluable citizens of his community, and on the rolls of Defiance county's most honored pioneers his name should be found among the foremost. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton.  Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899. ~ Page 505 F. N. Horton FRANCIS NEWELL HORTON.   The blood that tinges the veins of this honored business man - farmer, public official, and banker - and prominent citizens of Hicksville, is derived from English sources.  The first of the family in a direct line to our subject, to come to America, was Barnabas Horton of England, who settled in Southold, Long Island, New York, in 1640.  Caleb Horton was a son of Barnabas Horton; David Horton was a son of Caleb Horton; John Horton (I), of Woodbridge, Connecticut, was a son of David Horton; John Horton (2) was the only son of John Horton (I); and Calvin Horton was a son of John Horton (2), who was great-grandfather in direct line to our subject.  Enoch Horton, and grandfather to our subject; Calvin Horton was a son of Enoch Horton, and father of our subject.  Francis N. Horton (our subject) was one of four children of Calvin Horton - Francis N., Samuel E. S., Keren H., and John C. Horton.      Enoch Horton the grandfather of our subject, was born at or near Litchfield, Connecticut, whence, when along in years, he moved to Conventry, New York, and followed farming.  This vicinity was the family home for some years, during which time he made a prospecting tour to northwestern Ohio, and also visited his daughter, then the wife of Israel Stoddard, in what is now St. Joseph township, Williams county; while on this trip he was taken sick and died of fever at or near Denmark, on the Saint Jo river; his wife died at the homestead near Coventry, New York.  They had a family of five daughters and six sons, and of these was a son named Calvin, who was the father of the subject of this sketch.      Calvin Horton was born Nov. 18, 1808, and when a young man learned the trade of a machinist.  He was married to Dorcas Newell, and moved West with his wife and one child, the subject of this sketch, and located at Urbana, Champaign county, Ohio, in 1835, where he followed his trade until 1842.  At this time, having made arrangements to enter partnership with his brother-in-law, Israel Stoddard, in the erection of a woolen-mill in Farmer township, Defiance (then Williams) county, he started with his family and goods for that place, but while on the way he received news of the death of Israel Stoddard.  He continued on his way, however, and in the same year established a woolen-mill at Brunersburg, which he operated for two seasons; then removed to Orland, Steuben county, Indiana, and with a partner began the erection of a woolen-mill at that place.  The work on this mill was well advanced, and a large expense had been incurred, when Mr. Horton was taken ill with lung fever, and died very suddenly in January, 1844.  His partner then gathered all the available effects of the concern, and left for parts unknown, leaving the firm debts to be settled  out of Mr. Hortons estate, which was nearly all used up.  Mr. Horton's remains were laid to rest at Orland, Steuben county, Indiana.  He was a conscientious Christian, holding membership with the Baptist Church (as did also his wife); in politics he was a stanch Whig, and active in promulgating the principles of that party.  He and his wife had four children, named in order of birth, as follows:  Francis Newell (our subject), Samuel E. S., Keren H., and John C.  His widow afterward married Robert M. Kells, a farmer of Farmer township, and died there Jan. 4, 1854, and was laid to rest in the Fisher cemetery by the side of her second husband.      Francis Newell Horton was born May 12, 1833, at Pompey Hollow, Onondaga county, New York, and at the death of his father, being then but eleven years of age, he was thrown upon his own resources, having to begin earning his own way in the world among strangers.  For the first four years he was in the employ of a farmer in Lagrange county, Indiana, where, as stipulated, he was to attend school during the winter months - a privilege afterward much abridged.  He subsequently was employed for a shirt time in the same vicinity until taken sick, when, unbeknown to him, his mother had been apprised of his condition, and came and carried him to her home in Farmer township.  On his recovery, at the age of seventeen, he began working at carpentering, and this he followed until 1856.  Until 1854 he had attended the winter schools, and had so well employed his time that he was qualified to teach, which he did during the winters of 1854-55, and 1855-56.      On Mar. 6, 1856, Mr. Horton was married to Miss Mary E. Haller, a daughter of Jesse Haller homestead, which farm he operated two years.  At the end of this time he moved to a heavily-timbered tract of eighty acres that he had bought; this farm he cleared, erected thereon suitable farm buildings and otherwise improved, and then sold.  After selling this land he moved to another timber tract of eighty acres, on which he erected buildings, and cleared and improved.  Thus it will be seen that Mr. Hortonhas done his share of opening up a new country.  On Aug. 15, 1862, he enlisted in Company F, One Hundred and Eleventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry; was mustered in as teamster, and served till Apr. 13, 1863, when he was discharged on account of disability.      His faithful helpmeet passed away May 1, 1882, and was buried in the Lutheran cemetery in Farmer township, leaving a family of children named and described as follows: (I) Netting I., born Mar. 28, 1857, married George Foust, who owns and lives on the old Haller homestead. (2) Ernest M., born in July, 1859, married Emily J. Ringer, and is now a merchant of Eustice, Lake county, Florida.  (3) Williams F., born May 27, 1867, was united in marriage with Miss Cornelia M. Hemenway; he is now assistant cashier of the First National Bank of Hicksville.  On Jan. 24, 1884, the father of this family was again married, this time to Sarah E. Ringer.      In April  of that year he removed to Hicksville, Ohio, and at once organized and established there the Merchants & Farmers Bank, under a State charter, with a capital stock of twenty-five thousand dollars, which was opened for business June 16, 1884.  Of this bank Mr.. Horton became a director and cashier; in 1887 he was appointed president thereof, and a successful business was soon the result of his careful management.  In 1893 the bank was merged into the First National Bank of Hicksville, with a capital stock of fifty thousand dollars, since which time Mr. Horton has been its president.  The success of the bank, as well as all other business enterprises of which our subject has had the direction and control, places him in the first rank as to executive ability and financial management.  Since his residence at Hicksville, he has been identified with various enterprises of a public and semi-public nature, and has probably done more than any other one man in organizing and putting into successful operation the very excellent water-works system at Hicksville; the construction of the works and the laying of the pipes were done wholly under his supervision and direction, he devoting his time for one entire season to this purpose.  This was in 1890, and so well was the work done that no repairs have been necessary since.  He was also one of the organizers and promoters of the electric light plant in the village; supervised and erected the brick flouring-mill, and the elevator at the railroad depot.  For some time he was in the milling business, but at present devotes his whole time to his property interests and the affairs of the bank.       He is an ardent and stanch Democrat, and has served his fellow citizens in various positions of honor and trust, with credit to himself and fidelity to the public interests.  He served as county infirmary director four years; as county commissioner for six years - 1874-80; as member of the Hicksville village council for two years, and in other minor offices.  On various occasions he has served his party as delegate to State, Congressional and Judicial conventions.      Mr. Horton is a member of the Christian Church, and in all the positions of life in which he has acted he has been a sincere and honest business man, a faithful official, and by industry, integrity and actual ability has attained success.  Left in adverse circumstances in youth, to relieve a widowed mother, he bravely began to earn his own way, and with no financial assistance he struggled industriously with the courage born of a heroic sprint, and fostered by adversity, until he overcame all the obstacles in his way, and now can face the future with complacency, and provide for those he loves.  He is one of the best type of men who have achieved success and an honorable position in life through their own inherent ability.      Mr. Horton is described by those who know him best as a man of pre-eminent honesty, whose world is absolutely to be relied upon, a man of decided views, with aggressiveness sufficient to maintain those views on all occasions.  A stranger is early impressed with the conviction that he is one of the stanchest of men, and of the best type of American citizenship.  He and his wife reside in an elegant and substantial brick residence, erected in 1885-86, on East Smith street. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899. ~ Page 212 Wm. H. Hubbard HON. WILLIAM HUMPHREYS HUBBARD.  The family history of Judge Hubbard is a most interesting one.  His descent is traced in an unbroken line from the Danish Sea King, Hubba, who, with his brother, Hingua, and a numerous following of their people, invaded England in the year 1866, and after conquering of their people, invaded from Nottingham north to the Tyne, crossed the Humber and carried death and destruction as far south as Excesdune (Aston), where, after a terrific battle with the Saxon army, under King Ethelred and Prince Alfred the Great, they were defeated and driven back to Reading.  They, however, maintained themselves in England, and in 1878, with a fleet of twenty-three ships, ravaged the coast of South Wales and Devonshire, where they landed and remained until they were at last defeated and driven back to their ships, with the death of Hubba, by Odun the Saxon.      After the final subjection of the Danes by King Alfred, the descendants and follower of Hubba and the other Danish leaders took the names of their respective kings, the termination "ard," which in the old Danish signified both "descended from" and "belonging to," being added to the name Hubba, and in the course of time the name Hubbard was indiscriminately applied as well to all those who had fought under "Hubba's Raven Banner" as to his direct descendants.  As is said in a work published at New York, in 1895, entitled "1,000 years of Hubbard History," from which we quote: "The name Hubba is not only very ancient in British history, but is probably of great antiquity in Asia.  The remote ancestors of Hubba the Dane came from Asia, and it is more than probable from the very valley where the ruins - beneath the mounds of Abu Hubba - where discovered."      The great Chancellor of the State of New York, Walworth, whose mother was of the same strain of Hubbard blood with our subject, for many years of his life devoted a large part of his time and attention to perfecting the genealogical records of the family; going to England for that purpose.  AS might be supposed, he found that the blood of the other royal families of England, the Saxon and the Norman, had freely mingled with the vigorous blood of the Viking Hubba; and was able to trace back these other lines of ancestry to their sources.  His labors are in part preserved in a massive volume published by him, a copy of which is to be found in the rooms of the Long Island Historical Society, at Brooklyn, New York, in which appears the name of our subject, with a full account of his ancestry along the lines followed by the chancellor.  His earliest ancestor in this country was George Hubbard, who was born in England in 1806, and is mentioned among the first settlers in Hartford, Connecticut, as having taken a party from Boston, to settle there.  He has given six acres of land "by courtesy of the Town, with the privilege of wood and keeping cows on the common."  In 1640 he married Elizabeth Watts, daughter of Richard Watts, one of the original proprietors of Hartford, and was "assigned a home lot on the east side of the great river."  About 1540 he removed to Middletown, Connecticut, and there established his permanent home, on the east side of Main street.  His real estate holdings were very extensive, and he was one of the leading men of the locality, being "highly respected and of marked integrity and fairness."  His death occurred Mar. 18, 1664, his widow surviving him until 1702.  They had eight children, among whom is a son, Nathaniel, who was born at Middletown, Connecticut, Dec. 10, 1652, and died May 20, 1728.  He was married May 29, 1682, to Mary Earle, who was born in 1663, and died Apr. 6, 1732.  Their home was at "Long Hill on the cross-roads," at Middletown, where they reared a family.  Their son, Nathaniel, was born at Middletown, Sept. 14, 1690, and died at the old home on Long Hill, Oct. 14, 1765.  He was married Apr. 12, 1716, to Sarah Johnson, by whom he had several children.      A son, Nehemiah, the next in direct line of descent, was born at Middletown, July 22, 1721, and died in Holland Patent, New York,, Mar. 11, 1811.  He served for many years in the French and Indian wars of his time.  He was married Oct. 12, 1748, to Sarah Sill, who was born Jan. 2, 1728, and died Aug. 10, 1814.  Thirteen children blessed this union, the third, Nehemiah, being the great-grandfather of the subject of this sketch.  He was born Apr. 10, 1752, in Middletown, Connecticut, and was thrice married, first in 1777 to Cornelia Willis, who died Nov. 28, 1781.  On Feb. 12,  1785, he married Lucy Starr, and at her death he married Widow Hannah (Burnham) Latimer.  He took a leading part in the stirring events of his day, and at his death left left what was then considered a large fortune.  At the age of fourteen he entered the store of Matthew Talcot as a clerk, and remained until he attained his majority, when he engaged in trade with the West Indies, first as supercargo and later as captain and merchant.  In 1776 Governor Trumbull, of Connecticut, appointed him paymaster of Colonel Burrell's regiment from the colony, and in May, 1777, General Greene appointed him deputy quartermaster-general for Connecticut.  He was present at the siege of Yorktown and the surrender of Cornwallis, and possessed the warm esteem of General Washington, Governor Jonathan Trumbull and Alexander Hamilton, autograph letters from all of whom, expressing friendship and confidence, being now in the possession of the family.  Many of his accounts while paymaster were audited by General Washington, and these have also been preserved by his descendants.  He and Colonel David Humphreys, a relative of Judge Hubbard on the maternal side, held memberships countersigned by General Washington and General John Knox in the "Society of the Cincinnati," composed of commissioned officers in the Colonial army.  At the close of the Revolution he resumed his mercantile business, and later, from 1808 to 1822, was president of the Middletown Savings bank.  He was active in local affairs, serving as treasurer and justice of the peace, and his memory is indissolubly connected with the progress of the city of Middletown, one of his chief benefactions being the gift of the land for the Wesleyan College.  As one of the original members of the Western Reserve Land Co., he became the owner of nearly eighteen thousand acres of land in this State, and the town of Hubbard, Ohio, was named in his honor.  He died Feb. 6, 1837.      By his marriage with Lucy Starr has had children, one of whom was a son, Richard, the Judge's grandfather, who was born Mar. 27, 1792, and became a prominent resident of Middletown.  In 1838 he was elected mayor of the city, and for many years he was president of the Middlesex Mutual Assurance Co.  A graduate of Yale College, he was a man of fine culture, and, like all the family, he displayed much public spirit and liberality.  On Sept. 7, 1814, he married Mary Cone, who was born Feb. 27, 1793, the daughter of Salmon and Mary Pinneo Cone, of Colchester, Connecticut.  He died Sept. 1, 1839, and her death occurred in Ashtabula, Ohio, in 1850.      Their son, Edward Cone Hubbard, our subject's father, who was born Sept. 27, 1824, eventually inherited the extensive tract of land in the Western Reserve, and in 1856 he removed to Ashtabula, where he made his home until his death, in 1892, at the age of sixty-nine years.  His widow, Mrs. Sarah M. (Humphreys) Hubbard, who was born June 5, 1830, still resides at that place.  She was a daughter of William and Maria Beach Humphreys, and a grandniece of Colonel David Humphreys, mentioned above, who served in the war as an aid on the staff of General Israel Putnam, and later on the staff of General Washington.  A warm personal friendship was thus begun between him and Washington, which continued without intermission until the death of the latter.  At the time Washington  became President, Colonel Humphreys, at his request, assumed the duties of Major-Domo of his official residence, and after his retirement passed months at a time at Mount Vernon, as the honored companion of his former chief.      He was also minister from this country at Madrid and Lisbon, and while acting in that capacity succeeded in bringing to this country one hundred of the finest Infantado Merino sheep, in spite of the penalty of death provided by the laws of Spain for the taking of a Merino out of that country.  With the frock thus acquired, he became the first manufacturer of fine woolen cloths in this country, and Thomas Jefferson, at his inauguration as President, wore a suit made of broadcloth manufactured and presented to him by Colonel Humphreys.  In the War of 1812 he became a general, and he was prominent in the settlement of Marietta, Ohio, where he owned a large tract of land.  He married the Countess Walewski, in France, where he afterwards died.  Her maternal grandfather, Captain John Beach, was a captain in a Connecticut regiment in the same struggle, and the silver-mounted sword that he carried is a treasurer heirloom in the family.      It will be seen that Judge Hubbard comes of ancestry with whom high purpose and courageous achievement was "bred in the bone."  While his life was happily fallen in peaceful times, there has been no lack of opportunity for the exercise in the forum, and in the world of business, for the shrewdness and valor which won success for his forefathers in other fields.  He was born in Middletown, Connecticut, Apr. 15, 1850, but his education was begun in the public schools of Ashtabula.  At the age of nine years he was placed under the care of a private tutor, Rev. James Bonner, D. D., a graduate of the University of Edinburgh, Scotland, eminent for his scholastic attainments, and a well-known clergyman of the Episcopal Church.  For seven years he remained under this gentleman's instruction, acquiring a thorough knowledge of Latin and other branches.  At the age of nineteen he accepted a position as civil engineer in the construction of certain railroads in Missouri and Kansas, and while thus employed he began the study of law.  Having fully decided to make the legal profession his life work, he returned to Ashtabula in 1870, and continued his studies while holding a position as bookkeeper and paymaster for contractors who were engaged in building railroads in Ohio.  In 1871 he was admitted to the Bar at Columbus, Ohio, on motion before the Supreme court, and soon afterward he began to practice his profession at Ashtabula.  In 1873 he was admitted to practice in the United States District and Circuits courts for the northern district of Ohio, and later, on motion of Senator Edmunds, was admitted to the Bar of the United States Supreme Court.      A pleasing incident, credible to both parties concerned, is connected with this event.  It seems that Senator Edmunds made it a rule never to make a motion of that kind unless he knew positively that the applicant was thoroughly qualified, and he took a most ingenious way to test the fitness of Mr. Hubbard, with whom he was acquainted socially.  While chatting one day of Senator began to look up some records, and would frequently ask his young friend's opinions, which were given, of course, with great freedom, and with no thought of any momentous issue depending upon their accuracy.  This unique method of examination proved very satisfactory, and on parting the Senator requested Mr. Hubbard to be present at the next session of the Supreme court, offering to move for his admission.      Judge Hubbard attained a high standing among the legal fraternity at Ashtabula, and he remained there until February, 1881, when he removed to Napoleon, Ohio, where his abilities were likewise appreciated.  In 1885 he located at Defiance, forming a partnership with Hon. W. D. Hill, then a member of Congress.  This continued until 1891, when Mr. Hill moved to the West, and in 1893 Mr. Hubbard took another partner, J. H. Hockman, under the firm name of Hubbard and Hockman.  This lasted until the fall of 1896, when Mr. Hubbard was elected Judge o the Court of Common Pleas.      The Judge is a close student, keeping well abreast of the times, a strong and accurate logician, and a thoroughly reliable counsellor.  As a trial lawyer he is considered one of the ablest in northwestern Ohio, the fact being especially worthy of note that he never lost a case among all that he argued before the State Supreme Court.  He accepted the position of city solicitor of Defiance for two terms, and has had some very important cases for the city.  One of them, The Wabash Railroad Co. vs. The City of Defiance, lately decided in favor of the latter by the Supreme Court of the United States, is now the leading case in this country, on the subject of municipal control of the occupation and crossing of streets by railroads.  Another, involving the validity of city bonds to the amount of ninety thousand dollars, is now pending in the United States Circuit court, and is the only case in which he is still acting as counsel.  In this case many new questions of great importance are to be determined.  His course upon the Bench has demonstrated his eminent ability and impartiality as a judge, and scarcely any of his decisions have been reversed by the higher courts.  Outspoken, fearless, strictly honorable in his dealings, the Judge holds the admiration and respect of all classes in the community, while his genial manners and sterling qualities of character quickly transform acquaintances into fast friends.      The Judge has always taken an active interest in politics, and at the age of nineteen began to defend the principles of the Democratic party from the rostrum.  Since that time, each campaign has found him among the leading champions of that cause upon the "stump."      In 1881, Judge Hubbard was united in marriage with Miss Mary Moore, daughter of Rev. Dr. Moore, and Episcopal Minister formerly of Baltimore, Maryland, and later of Ohio.  Under the administration of the late Bishops McIlvaine and Bedell, he was one of the examining chaplains of the Diocese of Ohio, and also presiding judge of hte Ecclesiastical court.      The Judge and his wife have three children:  Lucy M., Edward M. and Nannie C., aged respectively (1898) fifteen, fourteen and eleven years. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899. ~ Page 14   HERMAN H. HUBER.  "The authentic picture of any human being's life and experience," says a well-known author, "ought to possess an interest greatly beyond that which is fictitious, inasmuch as it has the charm of reality."  The varied histories recorded in this volume will be of lasting value as affording a true and impartial view of the men whose work and influence wrought out the high state of civilization which we see around us to-day, and among these it is most fitting that we should name the worthy agriculturists who have made our rural districts habitable, establishing homes, churches and schools, and maintained law and order.      The subject of this sketch, a prominent resident of Mark township, Defiance county, was born in that county, in Farmer township, July 22, 1853, a son of Anthony and Frances (Feighter) Huber, both of whom were natives of Germany.  They crossed the ocean in 1840, and after spending one year in Butler county, Ohio, located permanently in Defiance county, securing a farm in Section 31, Farmer township.  Both are now deceased.  They had eight children, viz: George H., Lewis C., Caroline T., Eliza (wife of Matthias Thiel),  Agatha R. (wife of James M. Phillips), Herman H., Francesca (who died when nine years old), and Anthony A.      Mr. Huber, our subject, was reared to farm work, and has never been engaged in any other occupation.  He remained at home until his marriage which occurred March 7, 1878, in Defiance, and since that time he has resided at his present homestead in Mark township, Section 6.  This is an attractive place, containing eighty-nine acres, and his buildings and other improvements show judicious expenditure of time and means.  As a citizen he is much respected, and he takes an interest in all that concerns the welfare of the community, being especially active in educational affairs.  For some time he has served as a school director, and for three years past he has held the office of justice of the peace.      Mrs. Huber, who was formerly Miss Isabella Lash, was born Aug. 1, 1857, in Williams county, Ohio, and was one of a family of ten children, seven of whom (one son and six daughters) lived to mature age.  Her parents, William and Elizabeth (Maxwell) Lash, were married in Wayne county, Ohio, and soon afterward settled in Florence township, Williams county; but in the spring of 1872 they removed to Hicksville township, Defiance county, where they now reside.  Eight children have blessed our subject's home, four of whom - Dessa M., Della F., Grover G., and Charlie W. - died in 1890 from diphtheria.  The survivors are:  Ola E., Minnie Myrtle, Gladys J., and Ruby Grace. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton.  Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899. ~ Page 519   WILLIAM W. HUFF.  This influential and popular citizen of Sherwood is one of the ablest lawyers practicing at the Defiance County Bar.  A man of sound judgment, he manages his cases with masterly skill and tact, and has gained an enviable reputation among his professional brethren.      A native of Defiance county, Mr. Huff was born Feb. 15, 1858, in Delaware township, a son of John and Celestia (Haynes) Huff, the former a native of Crawford county, Ohio, the latter of Summit county.  Early in the '50s they came to Defiance county, where they were married, and in Delaware township they began their domestic life, and still continue to reside there, honored and respected by the entire community.      William W. Huff, the eldest in the family of ten children, was reared on his father's farm in Delaware township, in much the usual manner of farmer boys, obtaining his early education in the public schools of the neighborhood.  Subsequently he attended the high school of Bryan, Ohio, for four years, graduating from that institution with the class of  '81.  In the same year he commenced the study of law in Bryan, but concluded his preparation for the legal profession with F. W. Knapp, of Defiance.  Being admitted tot he Bar, he opened an office in Sherwood, in 1890, where he has since successfully engaged in practice.  After his graduation he organized the Sherwood high school, which was then known as the township high school and was afterward merged into the Sherwood high school, which is a great credit to its founder.  For five years he engaged in teaching.       The Democratic party has always found in Mr. Huff an earnest advocate of its principles, and by his fellow citizens he has been honored with a number of political positions, the duties of which he has most conscientiously and satisfactorily performed.  During President Cleveland's first administration, he was appointed postmaster of Sherwood, filling that office for four years, and for the nine succeeding years, ending in April, 1895, he served as justice of the peace.  He has taken an active part in all local affairs, and has cheerfully supported all enterprises for the public good.  Both his public and private life are above reproach, and he is held in high regard by a large circle of friends and acquaintances.  Socially he affiliates with the Knights of Pythias. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899.   PETER HUFFMAN.  One of the successful and representative farmers of Milford township, Defiance county, is the subject of this sketch, who is residing the Section 31.  He was born February 25, 1843, in the Preble county, Ohio, but when quite young was brought to Defiance county by his parents, Michael and Catherine Huffman, who located in Hicksville, where they spent their remaining years.  Our subject is fourth in order of birth in their family of eight children, and was reared on the home farm in Hicksville township, where he remained until marriage.      In October, 1865, Mr. Huffman wedded Miss Caroline Trocht, who was born in Crawford county, Ohio, August 4, 1843, a daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Trocht.  They began their domestic life upon the farm of eighty acres in Section 31, Milford township, which still continues to be their home.  It is a fine farm, supplied with all modern conveniences, and the buildings are in harmony with the neat and thrifty appearance of the place.  Two children came to bless the home, namely:  Lodema B., now the wife of Quedo Morgan; and Bina May.  He lost one child, Benjamin, who died in infancy. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899.   WILLIAM D. HULL.  The present township trustee of Adams township, Defiance county, William D. Hull, our subject, was born May 15, 1864, upon the farm where he still continues to reside, and is a son of Emanuel and Jane (Osborn) Hull, both natives of Portage county, Ohio, the former born in 1830, the latter in 1837. They were married in Defiance county, and soon afterward located upon the farm in Section 36, Adams township, Defiance county, where they continued to make their home until called from this life, the father dying February 14, 1883, the mother on September 20, 1890. He was one of the most highly respected and honored citizens of the community, took an active part in local affairs, and efficiently served in some township offices.      The subject of this sketch is fifth in the order of birth in the family of nine children—seven sons and two daughters—and throughout life he has lived upon the old homestead in Section 36, Adams township, Defiance county. He was educated in the common schools, and early became familiar with farm work in its various departments. Choosing that vocation as a life work, he has met with fair success in his undertakings. His farm comprises one hundred and ten acres of rich and productive land under a high state of cultivation.      In Defiance county, Ohio, March 6, 1884, Mr. Hull was united in marriage with Miss Alice Geitgey, who was born in Noble township, Defiance county, in 1863, a daughter of the late Adam Geitgey, and they have seven children, namely: Zepha J., Alva E., Myrtle E., Franklin W., Emma A., Alta M., and Ray V.      Mr. Hull is actively identified with the Democratic party, and is recognized as a leader in local political matters. He has filled the office of road supervisor in a most satisfactory manner, and in the spring of 1896 was elected trustee of Adams township, a position he is now filling with credit to himself and to the satisfaction of his constituents. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899.   FORREST O. HUTCHINS.  One of the most energetic citizens of Farmer township, Defiance county, F. O. Hutchins, is successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits in Section 9.      Mr. Hutchins is a native of Ohio, born in Lorain county, February 22, 1855, and is a son of Rozelle and Susan (Ranney) Hutchins, who removed from Lorain to Defiance county in 1863, locating in Farmer township, where both died.  In their family were nine children - six sons and three daughters - our subject being fifth in the order of birth.  He was eight years of age when he accompanied his parents on their removal to Defiance county, and in Farmer township grew to manhood, becoming thoroughly familiar with every department of farm work.  Since starting out in life for himself he has devoted his energies to agricultural pursuits, and now successfully operates one hundred and sixty-five acres, while he owns forty acres under excellent cultivation and improved with good buildings.      In Farmer township Mr. Hutchins was married to Miss Rachel Price, who was born in that township, a daughter of William and Sarah Ann (Thorp) Price, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere.  Eight children have been born of this union, namely: Edna, Clara, Clark, Ethel, Laura, Lowell, Ralph and Robbie. Source:  Commemorative Biographical Records of Northwestern Ohio including the counties of Defiance, Henry, Williams & Fulton. - Published at Chicago: J. H. Beers & Co. 1899.

...