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OHIO GENEALOGY EXPRESS
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Welcome to
Huron County, Ohio
History & Genealogy |
BIOGRAPHIES
Source:
History of Huron County, Ohio
- Vol.
I & II -
By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago -
The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. -
1909
< CLICK HERE TO RETURN
TO 1909 BIOGRAPHICAL INDEX >
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OF BIOGRAPHICAL INDEXES >
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C. A. SCHEID.
A well improved and highly developed farm of one hundred and forty-acres,
situated in Sherman township, is the home of C. A. Scheid. His birth
occurred in February, 1867, and he has remained a resident of Sherman
township throughout his entire life. His parents, Jacob and Barbara (Bilstein)
Scheid, who were natives of Germany, became early settlers of Huron county,
Ohio. Their family numbered ten children, namely: William and
Elizabeth, both of whom are now deceased; Emma; C. A., of this review;
Henry; Minnie; George; John; Fred; and Albert.
C. A. Scheid attended the district schools until twelve
years of age and then became identified with general agricultural pursuits,
in which he has been successfully engaged to the present time. In 1906
he bought his present farm of one hundred and forty acres from his father
and has since been busily engaged in its operation, the well tilled fields
annually yielding golden harvests of grain. Everything about the place
indicates that he is in touch with the modern spirit of progress which is
manifest in agricultural lines. On the 21st of
October, 1897, Mr. Scheid was united in marriage to
Miss Louisa Boehler, a daughter of William and Mary Boehler,
residents of Monroeville, Ohio. She was the eldest in a family of
eight children, her brothers and sisters being as follows:
Anna, who has passed away; August; Minnie, who is
likewise deceased; Amanda; Edith; Karl, and Elmer.
Mr. and Mrs. Scheid now have four children: Mabel,
who was born in 1897; Ada, whose birth occurred in 1899;
Marion, born in 1904 and Olive, in 1905.
Mr. Scheid gives his political support to the men and
measures of the republican party and has served as road supervisor, in which
position he proved a most capable and faithful incumbent. He and his
family are all members of the Lutheran church. His life has been one
of continuous activity, in which has been accorded due recognition of labor,
and today he is numbered among the substantial citizens of his community.
His interests are thoroughly identified with those of Huron county and at
all times he is ready to lend his aid and cooperation to any movement
calculated to benefit this section of the country or advance its wonderful
development. Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. II - By A.
J. Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 -Page 14 |
|
LOUIE SCHICK,
successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits in Ridgefield township, Huron
county, was born in Germany on the 19th of May, 1870, and is a son of
Peter and Wilhelmina Schick. The parents, who were also natives of the
fatherland, came to the United States in 1883 and settled in Milan, Ohio,
where they resided for about six months. On the 1st of March of the
following year, they removed to Ridgefield township, Huron county, where the
father purchased thirty-eight acres of land, which is still in his
possession. He and his wife became the parents of four children,
namely: William; Jacob; Wilhelmina, the wife of Henry Klein;
and Louie, of this review. Both parents still survive while
the father who devoted his life to farming pursuits now lives retired,
enjoying well earned rest the fruits of his former toil.
Louie Schick spent the yeas of his boyhood and
youth under the parental roof, acquiring his education in the district
schools, while the periods of vacation were devoted to the work of the
fields. After laying aside his text-books, however, he became
identified with railroading, being employed upon the work train for four
years, and he also spent some time in the boiler shop. Later he
severed his connection with the railroad business and resumed agricultural
pursuits, renting a farm of fifty-two acres, which he continues to operate
and upon which he makes his home. He owns thirteen acres of land
which, in connection with his father's farm, he also cultivates. He is
up-to-date and progressive in his methods, carrying on his business along
strictly modern lines, while his various interests, carefully managed and
directed, are bringing him to gratifying returns.
Mr. Schick has been twice married. In
1899, he wedded Miss Bertha Bower, a daughter of William Bower,
of this county, who was a native of Germany. Until this union was born
one daughter, Louisa. The wife and mother was called away to
her final rest in 1905, while two years later, in 1907, Mr. Schick
married Miss Louisa Bower, a sister of his former wife. He is a
member of the German Lutheran church and is public-spirited in his
citizenship, lending his aid to all measures and movements which have for
their object the substantial and permanent development and upbuilding of the
community. Honorable and upright in all of his dealings, he has won
the respect and confidence of those with whom he is associated, and he is
held in high regard by a large circle of whom friends.
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. II - By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 - Page 28 |
Mr. & Mrs.
Sebastian Schnurr |
SEBASTIAN SCHNURR
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. II - By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 - Page 176 |
|
FRANCIS E. SCOTT,
a traveling nurseryman of Fairfield, Ohio, was born in Union county, Ohio,
in 1862, and is a son of Charles and Helen (Southwick) Scott.
He was the eldest in a family of six children, the other members being
Ida, Cash, Nathan, George and Charles. Francis E. Scott
acquired his education in the common schools of Ohio and remained under the
parental roof until he had attained years of manhood, when he entered
business life on his own account. He is now identified with the
nursery business as journeyman, making his headquarters at Fairfield, Ohio,
purchasing various kinds of trees which he in turn sells throughout Huron
and adjoining counties. He is alert, enterprising and industrious,
these elements forming the salient characteristics in the success which he
is enjoying in his chosen work.
In 1897 Mr. Scott was united in marriage to
Miss Carrie Hoyt, who was born in 1866 in North Fairfield, and is the
only child of Icabod and Elizabeth (Godfrey) Hoyt. The former
was the eldest child in a family of three children born unto Walter and
Caroline (Benson) Hoyt, the others being Elmon and Mercy,
while his wife was the second child in the family of Andrew and
Rachel (Wing) Godfrey, their family consisting of Elizabeth,
Zerah, and Michael. The Hoyts were among the
earliest pioneer settlers of Fairfield township and were well known and
prominent in the community in which they resided. The home of Mr.
and Mrs. Scott has been blessed with one son, Hoyt
Southwick, who was born on the 6th of September, 1898, and is the
light and life of the household.
Mr. Scott has given his allegiance to the
republican party since age conferred upon him the right of franchise, and he
is most loyal in his citizenship, st all times being deeply interested in
all matters pertaining to the general welfare of the community. He is
highly esteemed in the vicinity where he has made his home for some time,
and as an enterprising, energetic and prosperous business man well deserves
mention in this volume.
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. II - By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 - Page 464 |
|
THEODORE D. SHEPHERD,
became widely and prominently known throughout the city of Norwalk as the
efficient postmaster during almost two terms, and thus his death, which
occurred on Nov. 21, 1904, was the occasion of deep and widespread regret.
He was born in Jersey City, New Jersey, Oct. 13, 1843, and in June, 1869,
was united in marriage to Miss Ella S. Newman, who was born in
Norwalk township, Oct. 23, 1844.
After reaching manhood and fitting himself for the
responsible duties of a business career, Mr. Shepherd engaged
in bookkeeping and the accounting business, following that profession for
several years. He was later appointed postmaster of Norwalk and gave
such efficient and capable service during his first term that he was
reappointed but his death occurred prior to the expiration of his second
term. In this connection he became well known because of his courteous
treatment of the patrons of the office and his capability in discharging his
official duties.
His political allegiance was given to the republican
party, to which he gave stanch support. A highly respected citizen,
his death caused deep regret not only to the members of his own immediate
household, but also among his many friends and acquaintances.
As above stated, Mrs. Shepherd was born
in Huron county, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Newman.
Mr. Newman was engaged in the mercantile business throughout
his active business career, handling dry goods, books, stationery, etc.
He was a communicant of the Episcopal church, to which he gave loyal
support, while for thirty-five years he acted as superintendent of the
Sunday school. His death occurred when he was sixty-seven years of
age, and thus passed away one of the highly respected and well known
citizens of Norwalk, for he had taken a deep interest in many public
movements, having served throughout a long period as a member of the board
of education. He was also active in the establishment of the
Children’s Home at this place and did all in his power toward the
advancement and promotion of all worthy measures, giving freely of his time
and means. His political support was given to the republican party.
Mrs. Shepherd spent her girlhood under
the parental roof and acquired her education in the schools of her native
city. It was in June, 1869, that she gave her hand in marriage to
Theodore D. Shepherd, and she became the mother of a son and daughter;
Charles V., who was born June 15, 1871; and Cornie May, who
was born Dec. 6, 1872, and on the 15th of November, 1894, gave her hand in
marriage to I. W. Goodell. Mrs. Shepherd takes
great pride in the fact that she is a Daughter of the Revolution, while her
religious faith is indicated by her membership in the Episcopal church.
Having spent her entire life in the city of Norwalk, she has a large circle
of friends, who esteem her for her many excellent traits of character and
for the hearty welcome which they receive in her hospitable home.
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. II - By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 - Page 100 |
G. W. Sherman
& Family |
G. W. SHERMAN
owns and operates a good farm of sixty-one acres of land in Lyme township,
and his business qualifications and his genuine personal worth entitle him
to mention with the representative citizens of Huron county. A native
of this township, he was born a half mile south of Hunts Corners on the 22d
of April, 1861, a son of Samuel and Mary Ann (Carpenter) Sherman, old
settlers of this district. The parents were natives of England, the
father’s birth occurring Mar. 9, 1838, while the mother’s natal day was Mar.
20, 1843. Samuel Sherman was but fourteen years of age
when he left England with his father, William H. Sherman, and his
brother, Joseph, and came to Ohio, locating in this county. The
father, however, did not remain in this country, but returned to England,
leaving his son Samuel with Alonzo Husted, to whom he was bound out
as a farm hand to work until twenty-one years of age, when he was to receive
one hundred dollars and two suits of clothes. He worked so diligently
and faithfully, however, that at the age of twenty years Mr.
Husted released him and offered him the money and clothing. He
accepted the latter but left the money with his former employer on interest.
He then worked for Luther Avery for eleven dollars per month,
until, by earnest toil and careful expenditure, he had saved another one
hundred dollars. He then drew his original one hundred dollars from
Mr. Husted, with the interest which had accumulated in the
meantime, and embarked in business on his own account, renting a farm of
Mr. Husted on shares. About this time he married Miss
Mary Ann Carpenter and afterward purchased thirty acres
of land which now forms a part of the farm owned by his son George W.
As the years came and went he was successful in his undertaking and by
judicious investments extended his possessions until his home farm consisted
of sixty-one acres and he had accumulated other property throughout the
county, his holdings today amounting to three hundred acres of land, aside
from the tract now owned by the subject of this review. He is a
prominent member of the Episcopal church, regulating his life at all times
by its teachings. He now resides, at the age of seventy-one years, in
Monroeville, Ohio, but his wife passed away Dec. 25, 1908.
George W. Sherman came to his present home when
four years of age and has since lived in this county, spending his boyhood
days in the acquirement of an education as a pupil of the district schools.
When not busy with his text-books he devoted his time to the tasks that
usually fall to the lot of the farm lad and at an early period became
familiar with the work of the fields, assisting more fully as his age and
strength permitted, so that he was well equipped to take up the work on his
own account when, after attaining his majority, he secured the farm upon
which he now resides. t consists of sixty-one acres. It is a
finely improved property that yields abundant harvests in return for the
care and labor expended upon it. He is a progressive, up-to-date
farmer, capably managing his business interests, and the success which he
has attained ranks him among the representative agriculturists of his
township.
Mr. Sherman was married on the 26th of January,
1887, to Miss Florence Sarah Fry a native of England and a daughter
of Daniel and Martha (Button) Fry, also natives of that country, the
former born in 1847 and the latter in 1848. Leaving their native land
at an early date, they became early settlers in this county, where they
still make their home. Mrs. Sherman is the eldest of a family
of six children, the family remaining unbroken by the hand of death.
The others are Byron W., Daisy S., Roland G., Elizabeth M. and
Alice. As the years have come and gone the home of Mr. and Mrs.
Sherman has been blessed with six children, namely, David H., Mildred
P., Frank T., Clements G., Blanche G., and Joseph B., all
of whom are still under the parental roof.
Mr. Sherman holds membership in the Lyme
Trinity church, while his fraternal relations are with the Woodmen of the
World, Camp No. 40. He also is a member of the Protective Horse Association
of Lyme township. He is a member of the school board and has served thereon
for several terms. His political allegiance is given to the republican
party, but he does not seek public office as a reward for party fealty,
preferring to devote his entire time and attention to his personal affairs.
He is, however, public spirited, taking a helpful interest in all matters
pertaining to the material, intellectual and moral welfare of the community,
while his personal traits of character have gained him the esteem and good
will of his fellowmen.
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. II - By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 - Page 96 |
Mr. & Mrs.
Samuel Sherman |
SAMUEL SHERMAN,
who since April, 1901, has lived retired in Monroeville, was formerly
actively and successfully identified with agricultural interests and is
still the owner of three hundred acres of land in Huron county. His
birth occurred in Huntingtonshire, England, on the 9th of March, 1838, his
parents being William A. and Sarah (Lane) Sherman. In 1852 he
crossed the Atlantic in company with his father and settled in Huron county,
Ohio. At the end of a year, however, the father returned to England,
leaving his son Samuel with Mr. Husted, for whom the
lad was to work until he had attained his majority. He proved so
capable and diligent an apprentice, however, that when he was twenty years
of age Mr. Husted gave him one hundred dollars and told him
that his term of indenture would be considered ended. He then
operated the Husted farm for a couple of years and subsequently was
engaged in the cultivation of rented land for a time.
By dint of untiring labor and close economy he at
length accumulated sufficient capital with which to purchase a farm of his
own and in 1865 bought thirty-five acres of land from George
Sawyer, which has since remained in his possession and is known as the
old Sherman homestead. As time passed and his financial
resources increased he added to his acreage until he became the owner of
considerable land in this county, winning wide and favorable recognition as
a most successful and energetic agriculturist. In April, 1901, he put
aside the active work of the fields and has since lived retired in
Monroeville, enjoying in well earned ease the fruits of his former toil.
He still owns three hundred acres of rich and productive land in this county
and has justly won the proud American title of a self-made man, for the
prosperity which has crowned his labors has come entirely as the result of
earnest, persistent and well directed effort, keen discrimination and
capable management.
On the 28th of May, 1860, Mr. Sherman was
joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Ann Carpenter, who was
born in England on the 20th of March, 1843, her father being William
Carpenter, likewise a native of that country. In 1858 she
accompanied her uncle and aunt on their emigration to the new world and took
up her abode in Huron county, Ohio. By her marriage she became the
mother of seven children, as follows: George, who is mentioned on
another page of this work; John D.; Samuel, a sketch of whom
also appears in this volume; Edward A., who married Miss
Minnie Rape and makes his home in Lyme township; Joseph H.,
deceased, who wedded Miss Minnie Seible; Luella,
residing in Lyme township, who gave her hand in marriage to John
Koch, by whom she has two sons, Melvin T. and Forest William;
and Alice, at home. The wife and mother was called to her final
rest on Christmas day of 1908 and her demise was the occasion of deep and
widespread regret, for her many good traits of heart and mind had won her an
extensive circle of warm friends. Mr. Sherman is a
vestryman in the Episcopal church, the teachings of which permeate his life.
He has now made his home within the borders of this county for fifty-seven
years and that his career has ever been above reproach is indicated by the
fact that he is best liked where best known.
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. II - By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 - Page 152 |
|
SAMUEL C. SHERMAN.
George Washington said that "agriculture is the most useful as well
as the most honorable occupation of man;" and it is to this line of activity
that Samuel C. Sherman devotes his time and energies, owning as well
improved and productive farm of ninety-eight acres in Lyme township.
His birth occurred in that township on the 5th of March, 1865, his parents
being Samuel and Mary Ann (Carpenter) Sherman, both of whom
were natives of the England and became early settlers of Huron county, Ohio.
The former, whose natal day was Mar. 9, 1838, was a lad of fourteen years
when he accomplished his father, William H. Sherman and his brother,
Joseph Sherman, on their emigration to the new world, a settlement
being made in this county. Subsequently William H. Sherman
returned to England, leaving his son Samuel with Alonzo Husted
to whom he was bound out. It was agreed that the lad should work
for Mr. Husted until he had attained the age of twenty-one years,
when he would receive one hundred dollars and two suits of clothes. He
proved so faithful, energetic and industrious that Mr. Husted gave
him the money and clothing a year before his apprenticeship had expired.
Leaving the money with Mr. Husted, who agreed to pay interest
thereon, Mr. Sherman went to work for Luther Avery at a wage
of eleven dollars per month..He remained in that employ until, by close
economy, he had saved another hundred dollars and then Mr. Husted
gave him the money which he had earned during his term of indenture,
together with the interest that had accrued thereon. Mr. Sherman
was at this time about twenty-three years of age and started out as an
agriculturist on his own account, renting a tract of land on shares from
Mr. Husted. He also made further preparations for
establishing a home of his own by his marriage to Miss Mary
Ann Carpenter, who was born in England on the 20th of March,
1843. When his well directed labor and careful expenditure had brought
him sufficient capital, Mr. Sherman purchased thirty acres of
land in Lyme township and afterward extended the boundaries of the place by
additional purchase until it comprised sixty-one acres, which farm is now in
possession of his son, George W., whose sketch appears on another
page of this volume. As the years went by and his financial resources
increased, Mr. Sherman gradually added to his holdings until
he is now the owner of three hundred acres of rich, productive and arable
land in this county and is widely recognized as a most substantial,
enterprising and respected citizen. Beginning with absolutely nothing
but his own willing hands and indomitable courage, he has made his way to
success and prosperity and well merits the confidence and esteem which are
uniformly accorded him. He now makes his home in Monroeville and is a
valued member of the Episcopal church, in which he has served as deacon.
His wife was called to her final rest on the 25th of December, 1908.
Samuel C. Sherman was reared to agricultural
pursuits and acquired his education in the district schools. He has
always made his home in Lyme township and has followed farming throughout
his active business career, purchasing his present place of ninety-eight
acres in 1895. For six years prior, however, he had operated the farm
as a renter and has made many improvements on the property, remodeling the
dwelling, erecting barns, etc. In fact, the place is lacking in none
of the accessories and equipments of a model farm of the twentieth century
and the fields annually yield golden harvests in return for the care and
labor that is bestowed upon them.
In November, 1887, Mr. Sherman was joined
in wedlock to Miss Carolina Peadon, a native of Lyme township
and a daughter of George and Anna Peadon, who were born in New Jersey
and became residents of Lyme township, this county. By this union,
there are seven children, namely: Bertha M.; Henry G.;
Mabel Ann; Charles C., who is deceased; Carl L.;
Samuel L.; and Laura E. The surviving children are all at
home.
Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise,
Mr. Sherman has cast his ballot in support of the men and
measures of the republican party and has served as road supervisor for
several terms. Like the other members of his family, he is affiliated
with the Episcopal church of Lyme township, of which he is acting as deacon
and sexton and in the work of which he is deeply and helpfully interested.
Both Mr. and Mrs. Sherman have always resided in this community and
have an extensive circle of friends who esteem them for their genuine
personal worth and upright, honorable lives.
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. II - By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 - Page 127 |
A. S. Simmons |
|
|
MRS. AMANDA J.
SKILTON, a well known and highly esteemed resident of Ridgefield
township, making her home on her farm of sixty-five acres, was born at
Galion, Crawford county, Ohio, her parents being John S. and
Catharine (Neff) Davis. The family is an old one in this
country, several representatives of the name having participated in the
Revolutionary war. The place on which Mrs. Skilton
lives is a portion of the original farm belonging to her great-grandfather,
John Sowers, who owned seven hundred acres of land.
The grandfather, John Sowers, was an early settler of Huron
county, coming her in 1814. John S. Davis, the father
of Mrs. Skilton, was born in Maryland in 1808 and passed
away in the year 1888. His wife, whose birth occurred in Franklin
county, Pennsylvania, in 1822, was called to her final rest in 1890.
Their family numbered four children, namely: John S. Jr.,
who is now deceased; Amanda J., of this review; Kittie Belle,
who has also passed away; and Mary E., who gave her hand in
marriage to Thomas Latham and now resides in Monroeville,
Ohio. In 1865, at Galion, Ohio, Amanda
J. Davis was united in marriage to Alva S. Skilton,
a son of Elijah and Elizabeth (Wilson) Skilton, of Ravenna,
Ohio. At the time of the Civil war Alva S. Skilton
enlisted for service in the union army, returning home at the end of his
three months' term. A short time afterward he reenlisted and was soon
made captain of Company I, Fifty-seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He
underwent all of the hardships, privations and dangers incident to the life
of a soldier, participated in a number of hotly contested engagements and
was also a prisoner for a time. At the battle of Pittsburg Landing he
received a wound and was sent home to recuperate, again joining the army
when his health had been restored. He was captured at Atlanta and was
on his way to be exchanged as a prisoner of war when the news of Lincoln's
assassination was received. When hostilities had ceased and the
supremacy of the Union had been established he returned to Galion and in
1866 came to Monroeville, Ohio, where he became engaged in the grain
business and conducted an elevator. For a number of years he was also
an engineer on the Big Four Railroad and was widely recognized as a most
substantial, progressive and respected citizen of his community. His
political allegiance was given to the republican party, while his religious
faith was indicated by his membership in the Episcopal church, in which he
served as junior warden. He attained the Knight Templar degree in
Masonry and organized the G. A. R. post at Monroeville, of which he was the
first commander. His death occurred July 27, 1887.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Skilton were born four children.
John D., living in Cheshire, Connecticut, wedded
Miss Ida Beistle, of Pennsylvania, by whom he had three children:
Henry A.; Jane D., who is deceased; and John D.
He is a graduate of the public schools of Monroeville, the Kenyon College
and also of Divinity School at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and for a number
of years was assistant rector to Dr. Bates of St. Paul's
church at Cleveland. Later he was assistant rector at the American
church at Nice, France, but is now headmaster of the schools of Cheshire,
Connecticut. Elizabeth, the second child of
Mr. and Mrs. Skilton, attended Oberlin College and now makes her
home with her mother. Mary Grace, who obtained her
education in the schools of Gambier, gave her hand in marriage to
Clarence L. Powley and resides at Monroeville.
Catharine, the youngest member of the family, who likewise acquired
her education at Gambier, lives with her mother.
The different members of the family belong to the Episcopal church, in the
work of which they are deeply and helpfully interested. Mrs.
Skilton and two of her daughters live in a commodious and
attractive brick residence on her farm of sixty-five acres in Ridgefield
township and the place is lacking in none of the equipments and accessories
of a model farming property of the twentieth century. She has an
extensive circle of friends throughout the community where she has now long
resided, her many good traits of heart and mind having endeared her to all
with whom she has come in contact. Source: History of Huron County,
Ohio - Vol. II - By A. J. Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. -
1909 - Page 13 |
|
RICHARD T. SLATER
is a
wide-awake and enterprising farmer, owning and operated a tract of land of
fifty acres in Hartland township. His birth occurred in North
Fairfield, Huron county, Ohio, on the 17th of August, 1857, his parents
being Jack and Isabelle (Crow) Slater, the former a native of
Connecticut and the latter of Quebec, Canada. The Slaters are
of English lineage but have been represented in this country ever since the
arrival of the Pilgrims in 1620, one of the ancestors coming over on the
Mayflower. John Slater, the father of our subject, was a
blacksmith by trade and for many years worked at that occupation in North
Fairfield. He was fifty-two years of age when he enlisted as a soldier
of the Union army, becoming a member of Company B, One Hundred and
Twenty-third Regiment of Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with which he served for
three years. He was twice captured by the enemy and was incarcerated
in Andersonville prison and also at Belle Isle, being eventually exchanged
in both cases. His demise occurred in 1887, when he had attained the
ripe old age of seventy-seven years, and his remains were interred in the
North Fairfield cemetery. His wife, surviving him for more than two
decades, and called to her final rest on the 28th of September, 1908, and
lies buried at New Buffalo, Michigan.
Richard T. Slater obtained his education in the
schools of his native town and was employed at farm work as soon as his age
and strength permitted. He was married when about twenty-three years
of age and then carried on general agricultural pursuits in Fairfield
township for a number of years, while later he spent seven years in
Greenwich township, devoting his time and energies to the work of farm of
fifty acres which has since remained his place of residence. It is a
well improved and valuable property and the rich and fertile soil responds
to cultivation in bountiful harvests.
On the 30th of May, 1880, Mr. Slater was united
in marriage to Miss Sarah A. Odel a daughter of William and Rachel
(Phillip) Odel, both of whom are natives of this county and now make
their home in North Fairfield. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Slater have
been born two children: Burt A., who is married and resides in Laport
county, Indiana; and Blanche B., the wife of Horace Davis, who
follows farming in Hartland township.
Mr. Slater has always supported the men and
measures of the democracy and is now serving for the fourth year as township
trustee, while he has also been a member of the school board, maintaining a
deep interests in the progress of public education. His cooperation and aid
can always be counted upon to further any movement instituted to advance the
general welfare and he is widely recognized as a most progressive, loyal and
public-spirited citizen. Both he and his wife are highly esteemed
throughout the county in which they have spent their entire lives, having
won the kindly regard and friendship of all with whom they have been
associated.
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. II - By A. J. Baughman -
Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 - Page 543 |
|
AMBROSE B. SMITH,
diligent and persistent in his business affairs, his capable management
bringing him substantial success, is now the owner of eighty acres of good
farm land in Peru township. He was born in this county on the 13th of
March, 1854, at the family home in Greenfield township, his parents being
Marcus P. and Liddie (Coy) Smith. The paternal grandfather,
George Smith, was numbered among the earliest settlers of the
county and became a factor in the pioneer development of this part of the
state. He was killed by the caving in of a well in which he was working on
the old Simmons’ farm.
Marcus P. Smith was born in 1833, and spent the
greater part of his life in Peru township. In his youthful days he
shared in all the hardships and privations incident to pioneer life and the
period of his minority was one of earnest toil for he assisted in the
development and cultivation of a new farm. He always carried on
general agricultural pursuits as a life work and also engaged in threshing.
He was ever a busy and active man, continuing his identification with
farming interests until his death in 1895. His wife, who was born in
Peru township in 1830, died in 1903. She was a daughter of Henry D.
Coy, who was born June 15, 1800, and came to Peru township in 1818 with
his father-in-law, Asa Wilson, who owned the place upon which
Ambrose B. Smith now resides. It was upon this farm that Henry
D. Coy passed away in April, 1892. His daughter by her marriage to
Mr. Smith became the mother of six children: Ambrose B.;
Hattie, who died in childhood; Edward, who is living in Fairfield
township; Jennie, the wife of William Linder, residing in
Havana, Ohio; Alice, the deceased wife of Fred Mitchell;
and John M., who is living in Greenfield township.
Ambrose B. Smith has always lived within five
miles of the farm on which he now resides. He attended the district
schools in his youthful days and in the periods of vacation assisted more
and more largely in the work of the fields as his age and strength
increased. He has been connected with farming and threshing all his
life and has also worked at the carpenter’s trade. His skill in this
direction enabled him to erect all of the buildings upon his farm, and he
has likewise assisted in the construction of many others in this vicinity.
His life has been one of diligence and well directed thrift. He
purchased the farm from his father and has made it a valuable property,
lacking in none of the accessories and conveniences of the model farm of the
twentieth century.
On the 8th of December, 1876, Mr. Smith was
united in marriage to Miss Alice Jones, a daughter of Isaac and
Mary Jones, of Weston, Wood county, Ohio. She died July 28, 1879,
and for his second wife Mr. Smith chose Elizabeth J. Schild, a
daughter of George Schild, of this county. They were married
March 11, 1880, and have two children: Elnora M., now the wife of
Amos Eastman, of Peru township; and Herman E., who is
living on the home place.
Mr. Smith has been somewhat active in
community interests. He served as justice of the peace for two terms
and as assessor for two terms, being elected on the republican ticket.
He has also been a member of the school board. He held membership with
the Knights of the Maccabees at Havana until the tent of that place went out
of existence. His time and energies, however, have largely been
concentrated upon his farm and its interests, and his work has made him one
of the substantial agriculturists of this part of the state.
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. I - By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 - Page 480 |
D. C. Smith |
DAVID C. SMITH,
who well deserves the proud American title of self-made man, was born in
London, England, Dec. 26, 1856, and is a son of Jonathan C. and Hannah (Pedley)
Smith. The father, who was a stonemason by occupation, came
to America in the late 50s locating in Bellevue, Ohio, where he continued to
follow his trade until his death, which occurred July 6, 1882. His
wife passed away Mar. 17, 1907.
Coming to America when but two and one-half years of
age, David C. Smith therefore acquired his education in this country,
becoming a pupil of the schools at Norwalk and Milan. Remaining under
the parental roof for a time after setting aside his text-books, he assisted
his father in the cultivation of his fields until 1877, when he engaged in
business on his own account as a renter, at first operating a farm of one
hundred and sixty acres. He was thus engaged for six years, at the end
of which time he removed to his present place, which he rented for a time,
and in 1895 purchased sixty-six acres. He engages in general farming,
in which connection he also operates a dairy, owning about twelve cows.
For sixteen years he had a milk route in Milan but later sold the route
although he continues to furnish the milk. He makes a specialty of
raising sheep, having on hand a fine flock of the Delaine brand, which
average over eleven and a half pounds of wool per head. He conducts
his various enterprises on a strictly business basis and his keen sagacity
and sound judgment are the salient elements in the gratifying degree of
prosperity which he now enjoys. His farm, which is free from all
encumbrances, is surely proving a most satisfactory investment.
On the 9th of March, 1890, Mr. Smith was
united in marriage to Miss Emma D. Brown, who was born in
Monroeville, Ohio, on the 20th of April, 1868. She is the daughter of
Charles and Phoebe Brown, and the father now makes his home with her,
while the mother passed away May 10, 1878. She is a graduate of the
schools of Monroeville, and is a very estimable lady, being of no little
assistance to her husband in the conduct of his business affairs.
Mr. and Mrs. Smith have become the parents of four children, namely:
Ethel L., born May 22, 1891, who attended school for three years at
Norwalk and later graduated from the school at Milan; Florence E.,
born Sept. 18, 1893, who is now a pupil in school at Milan; Don C.,
born Nov. 10, 1896; and Glenn R., born June 6, 1902.
Mr. Smith is a thorough believer in education
and is doing all in his power to give his children and advantages of
thorough training. He holds membership in the Presbyterian church and
is a man of honorable, upright life, temperate in all his habits and true to
the ideals of noble manhood. In politics he votes with the republican
party and is public spirited in his citizenship, doing all in his power to
further the material, intellectual and moral welfare and upbuilding of the
community. Starting out in his business career without any especially
favoring advantages, he has by energy, industry, perseverance and integrity,
worked his way upward into a position of which he may well feel proud, for
he is recognized as one of the prosperous, progressive and valued citizens
of Norwalk township.
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. I - By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 - Page 352 |
|
E. W. SMITH, a
well known and prominent farmer and horse dealer of Ripley township, may
well claim the proud American title of a self-made man, inasmuch as the
prosperity which he now enjoys has been won entirely through his own efforts
and has come as the result of indefatigable industry and well directed
energy. Born on the 16th of February, 1865, in this township, he is a
son of Otis and Mary Jane (Welsh) Smith, the former born in Onondaga
county, New York, in 1832, while the latter’s birth occurred in Ripley
township, Huron county, in 1838. The paternal grandfather, Henry
Smith, was born in New York in 1800 and came to Ohio at an early
date, purchasing the farm upon which our subject now resides in 1840.
He married Caroline Redfield, and in their family were the
following children: Otis, Henry, Jane and two who
passed away in infancy. The mother of our subject was the daughter of
Nicholas V. and Susan (Styles) Welsh, and was the eldest in a family
of four children, the others being Peter, John and Rachel.
Nicholas Welsh was born in 1819 in Maryland and is a son of John
Welsh. His grandfather, John Welsh, Sr., was the founder
of the family in America, coming from Wales when nineteen years of age and
locating in Maryland. The family was numbered among the slave traders
of that state at one time, but upon their removal to Ohio they freed all of
their slaves. Mr. Welsh, like many other southerners,
was raised by an old black mammy. The family of Otis Smith
and his wife consisted of five children, namely, Warren, Charles,
Ralph, E. W. and Verna.
Amid the scenes and environments of agricultural life
E. W. Smith was reared to manhood, acquiring his education in the
district schools, and when not engaged with his text-books he assisted his
father in the work of the fields, his training in general farming being most
thorough and comprehensive. He remained at home until he attained his
majority and then started out in business for himself. Most of his
life has been devoted to agricultural pursuits and he now owns a fine farm
of one hundred and ninety-eight acres of land which, in its well improved
and attractive appearance, indicates the thrift and progressiveness of its
owner. For ten years, however, he operated a livery and sale stable in
Plymouth, and he now deals in horses, making a specialty of breeding
trotters. He has been very successful in his various undertakings and
is now ranked among the substantial and representative agriculturists of
Huron county.
It was on the 19th of August, 1885, that Mr.
Smith was united in marriage to Miss Ella Watts, who was born in
East Cleveland, Ohio, in January, 1866, a daughter of Frank and Elizabeth
(Lester) Watts. She was the sister of Hattie, Sarah.
Grace and Alberta Watts, and by her marriage to Mr.
Smith became the mother of two sons: Forest, born in December,
1888; and Charles, born in May, 1897. The eldest son, who is a
graduate of the Plymouth high school, taught school for several years and in
the fall of 1909 entered the Ohio State University. The family are members
of the Methodist church of Plymouth, and are people of high repute in the
community in which they reside.
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. II - By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 - Page 322 |
|
FRED H. SMITH
is at the head of The Smith Monument Works, one of the largest
establishments of its kind in the country, the business being located in
Norwalk, the annual sales amounting to between thirty and sixty thousand
dollars Mr. Smith is a native son of Ohio, his birth having
occurred in Sandusky, Erie county, Feb. 27, 1860. He acquired his
education in the public schools of his native city and when a youth of
fifteen years, began learning the marble cutter’s trade, being bound out by
his father for a term of three years. His term of indenture being
completed, in 1878, when eighteen years of age, he learned that A. T.
Davis, then conducting a marble shop in Norwalk was in need of help and
Mr. Smith accordingly applied for the position, which he secured,
receiving as compensation a dollar and a half per day. He continued
with Mr. Davis a year and a half, his wages being advanced to two
dollars and a half per day. Severing his connection with that firm, he
then engaged with R. R. King, with whom he worked at intervals for
two years, while later he entered the employ of the Lake Shore Railroad
Company, cutting stone for their bridge work and receiving a salary of three
dollars per day. Still later, he was employed for a time by the Flint
and Pere Marquette Railroad Company, doing marble cutting for bridge piers
and receiving a good salary for the same.
In December, 1883, having saved a small amount of money
from his earnings, Mr. Smith formed a partnership with W. V.
McKnight, a former fellow workman, and on the 1st of January, 1884, they
began operations in the marble business. Their joint capital amounted
to but two hundred dollars but they were young men of determination and
energy and during the ten years in which they did business together, they
built up a large and lucrative trade. After a decade Mr. McKnight
died and Mr. Smith purchased his interest in the business from
the heirs and continued in the same line, the firm name, however, being
changed from McKnight & Smith to The Smith Monumental
Works, which continues to the present time. The business was first
located at the corner of Seminary street and Linwood avenue. During
this period the business had grown to such proportions that it became
necessary to seek larger quarters. Accordingly, in June, 1900. Mr.
Smith purchased the builders’ supply business at the corner of
Prospect and Monroe streets, which was formerly used as a supply yard by the
Norwalk Brick and Stone Company. On this ground he erected a plant,
thirty-six feet wide, one hundred and eighty feet deep and twenty feet high.
Here he is now conducting business and in addition to monumental work, also
handles all kinds of builders’ supplies, with the exception of hardware and
lumber. He has secured a large patronage in all branches of his
business and especially in the monumental trade, specimens of his work being
found in the various cemeteries over a radius of thirty miles. He
employs twenty skilled workmen, and being himself well versed in the
monumental business in its various phases, he is thus able to give the
utmost satisfaction to his patrons. Perhaps the most notable work
which he has done is to be found in the Milan cemetery - the Fries
Mausoleum, which was erected for the late Valentine Fries, one of Ohio’s
greatest shipbuilders, at a cost of seventeen thousand, five hundred
dollars, it being one of the most expensive individual mausoleums to be
found in all northern Ohio. The annual sales now amount to between
thirty and sixty thousand dollars and are still increasing. Mr.
Smith has connected with him in business his two step-sons, James J.
and Harry G. McKnight, both bright young men, who will undoubtedly
become experts in their particular line. Both are graduates of a business
college.
Mr. Smith was married in 1895, the lady of his
choice being Mrs. Katharine (McKnight) Burger,
who was born in Norwalk, Apr. 17, 1863. Her father, Joseph
Burger, was born in Peru township, Huron county, in 1832. When
young, he learned the carpenter’s trade and has spent his entire life in
this city, being one of the worthy pioneer citizens of this section of the
state.
Mr. Smith is a republican in his political
views, while in religious faith, he is a Congregationalist. He is an
Odd Fellow, belonging to both the subordinate lodge and the encampment.
He may truly be called a self-made man, for, starting out with comparatively
nothing, he has through the inherent force of his nature and the utilization
of opportunities, passed from the unknown into prominence, advancing from a
humble place in the business world to a position of distinction as head of
The Smith Monumental Works, an establishment of wide reputation
throughout northern Ohio.
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. II - By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 - Page 125 |
|
JACOB F. SMITH.
One of the prosperous farmers of Huron county, Ohio, is Jacob F. Smith,
who not only owns the one hundred and forty-eight and a half acres in
Richmond township on which he lives, but owns in addition sixty-five acres
in Sullivan township, Ashland county, and two hundred and forty-three acres
in Alberta, Canada. A native of Ohio, he was born in Stark county,
near Alliance, Sept. 10, 1848, and is a son of John and Rebecca Smith.
Of German stock, he had as grandparents on his father’s side, Frederick
and Elisabeth Smith, both of German birth, and on his mother’s, Jacob
and Margaret Fetterhoff, who were born in Pennsylvania, but were of
German descent. His mother was born in Dauphine county, Pennsylvania,
while his father was a native of Columbiana county, Ohio. In his early
life, John Smith had learned the carpenter’s trade, which he
followed for some years, but with advancing age he devoted himself to the
cultivation of the soil and became a very prosperous farmer. Ten
children were born to him and his wife: Elisabeth, whose first
husband was Michael Merkel, and her second, William Singer;
Jacob F., the subject of this sketch; James; Hannah,
who married Orange Chapman; Mary, the wife of John
Eschenbach; William; Loretta, who has passed away;
Phoebe, who married Elzie Smith; Lydia, the wife of
Irvin Smith; and Emma, the wife of Warren
Klinker.
Jacob F. Smith was reared at home and received
the rudiments of an English education in the district schools of Ashland
county. During the years that he pursued his lessons, he also worked
for his father on the farm, especially during the summer months, but after
he had completed his education he learned the carpenter’s trade. This
occupation he followed for a number of years, and then he returned to
farming, to which he has devoted all his energies since and which has in
fact been his calling through the greater part of his life. The land
in Richmond township is a fine tract, well improved with a good frame house,
a commodious and well built barn and suitable cattle sheds. By hard
work and care, he has brought the fields to a high degree of fertility and
reaps from them yearly an abundant harvest as rich returns for his labor.
Mr. Smith was married to Miss Sophrona
Fast on the 21st of January, 1871. Mrs. Smith is
the daughter of Jacob and Margaret Fast, who were members of the
farming community of Ashland county, Ohio, but are now deceased, the father
being in his ninety-second year when in 1909 death called him, the mother
being eighty-four when a year before her husband’s death, her life’s work
was finished. Mr. and Mrs. Fast were blessed with a large
family, of whom Ephraim was the eldest; Elmyra, married
Louis J. McCraig; Sophrona, became the wife of Jacob F. Smith,
of this review; Martha married John Thudium; Ruth,
deceased, was the wife of George Curry; Mary, wedded
Mentor Johnston; Jacob H, Jessie and George are the
next in order of birth; and Sarah Isabel, became the wife of
Fred Thudium. To Mr. and Mrs. Smith
six children have been born: Charles, who married Alta
Willoughby and has one daughter, Thelma Mae; William A.,
who has remained single; Jesse F., who married Emma Carrick
and is the father of two children, Arnold LeRoy and Wayland
Edmond; and Clarence and Mary, who unmarried, live at
home.
Mr. Smith is a democrat in politics and
while he has always evinced a healthy interest in public matters and in the
welfare of his community, he has not sought office, but rather has declined
several positions that have been offered him. He has however, rendered
efficient services as justice of the peace, an office he filled through six
terms, as assessor, as road supervisor and as a member of the school board.
He was urged to accept the nomination for township treasurer, and although
he could not be persuaded to accept the office, the mere fact that he was
the expressed choice of the democratic voters of his locality, attests the
high respect and esteem in which he is held as a man and as a public
servant.
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. II - By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 - Page 470 |
|
JAY E. SMITH.
Among the men who enjoy the support and respect of the citizens of Huron
county, is Jay E. Smith, who entered upon his duties as auditor of
this county, in
October, 1909. Fitchville, which was the place of his birth, has of
recent years been his home, and here he has made a reputation as a fine
business man, imbued with high principles and of sterling integrity.
His parents, Thomas J. and Johanna (Van Vecten) Smith, come from
families who were among the early pioneers of Fitchville township, the
Smiths, perhaps, being slightly the older settlers. Mrs.
Smith is the daughter of Dr. Van Vecten, who for a number of
years practiced his profession in this township, and also carried on a
substantial mercantile business at the time when Fitchville was a prominent
and prosperous trade center. He later removed to New London, which was
the scene of his labor, until his death, which occurred a few years ago.
Thomas J. Smith also became a resident of New London, where he was
engaged in the butcher business for a number of years, and then removed to
Michigan, where he died in June, 1899, at his home in Grand Rapids.
His widow has since married Preston Palmer, of Fitchville
township.
Jay E. Smith was born in Fitchville township,
Jan. 2, 1861. He received his training for life at home and in the
schools of this county, working on the home farm when his time was not given
to his lessons, and as he grew up finding employment on the farms of
neighbors. He was able after a few years to attend the Cleveland
Commercial College, and at the age of twenty-six began his career as a
teacher. To this work he devoted himself for seventeen years, the
schools of Fitchville township profiting by his services for fifteen years,
the other two years of his professional activity being spent in the state of
Michigan. He was a popular and progressive instructor and his
withdrawal from the teacher’s profession was regarded with sincere regret.
In 1904, Mr. Smith came to Fitchville and engaged in the farm
implement business, which he gave up in the summer of 1909, preparatory to
assuming his new duties as aduitor of Huron county.
In politics, he has always been a democrat and has for
years taken an active part in party and public matters. Although
living in a strong republican township, he has served three years as justice
of the peace and for two years as a member of the school board. In
1899, he was the democratic candidate for member of the Ohio legislature
from Huron county, and the following year was the county's choice for state
senator, but was defeated for the nomination in the district convention.
In 1902, he was again the democratic candidate for county recorder, but as
in 1899, when he sought election as a representative, he was defeated
because of the strength of the republicans in Huron county. He was not
destined to defeat, however, in 1908, when he was nominated for what is
probably the most important office at the disposal of the people of this
county, that of auditor. The republicans still boasted of a twelve
hundred majority over the democrats, yet in the election of November, 1908,
Mr. Smith received two hundred more votes than his opponent
and entered upon his duties the 1st of October, 1909.
On the 10th of June, 1888, Mr. Smith was
united in marriage to Miss Ruth A. Lazell, a daughter of Joseph
and Mary A. (Burras) Lazell, of Fitchville township, and seven children
have been born to them, four now living, namely: Ruby, Donald,
Annabel and Ruth, while John D., Rhoda and L.
D. have passed away.
The incident of Mr. Smith’s election to
an important office is an indication of the attitude of the people, not only
of his township, but of the county as well, toward him. He is
recognized as a splendid citizen, whose business methods are unquestioned
and whose high principles can be relied upon. That he will administer
his affairs to the best of his ability there can be no doubt. He is a
member of Floral Lodge, F. & A. M., of New London, and is active in Masonic
circles, and those that have opportunity to see him at closer range, his
fraternal brothers, hold him in even higher esteem than those who are
compelled to know him only from a distance.
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. II - By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 - Page 445 |
|
JOHN D. SMITH.
One of the prosperous farmers of Fitchville township, Huron county, Ohio, is
John D. Smith, who was born in New London, July 2, 1866, and is the
son of Thomas and Johanna (Van Vecten) Smith. Both parents were
natives of New York state, the father’s birthplace having been Cross Rivers,
and both came as young people to Huron county. The Smith family
settled in Norwalk, but Thomas Smith pursued his calling as a farmer
and butcher in New London for a number of years. In 1876 he removed to
Michigan, where he died some years ago. His widow has since become the wife
of Preston Palmer, a prominent citizen of Fitchville township.
In the village of Fitchville John D. Smith was
reared under his uncle’s care, receiving his education in the schools of
that place. At the age of seventeen he engaged in teaching for a time,
and then entered the Northwestern University at Ada, Ohio. After three
years’ study he received from this institution the degree of B. S. and
resumed his teaching. He taught school at West Milldrove, Wood county,
for five years. But two other schools enjoyed his services during the
sixteen years he followed that profession. He was very successful,
obtaining the love of his pupils and the approval of his school boards, who
recognized him as a progressive man and fine teacher. In 1898 he
commenced farming on the land he now occupies, a tract of two hundred and
sixty acres, which makes good returns for the hard work he puts into it and
the advanced and scientific agriculture he carries on. Of recent
years, he has devoted a great deal of time to the raising of sheep, which
are of the finest, and he constantly improves his breed.
On the 26th of May, 1898, was celebrated the marriage
of Mr. Smith and Miss Belle Norris, a daughter of Omar P. and
Frona (Patton) Norris. Her mother died when she was a small girl,
but her father is a prominent farmer of Fostoria, Seneca county. He
was a captain in the Civil war, has served several terms in the Ohio
legislature, and is still active in the public affairs of his county. Mrs.
Smith before her marriage taught in the schools of Wood county, where
she was known as a progressive teacher beloved of her pupils, and she still
continues to have a deep interest in the educational life of the community.
Two children, Ralph E. and Pauline, have been born to Mr.
and Mrs. Smith.
Though he has never accepted any public office, not
from lack of urging, Mr. Smith has ever exhibited a deep interest in
the affairs that concern his fellow citizens and takes part in the life of
the township. He affiliates with the republican party and casts his
influence on the side of progress, the betterment of conditions generally,
the improvement of public buildings, the advancement of educational
institutions and the increase of good roads. Successful in his work
and a man of high principles, he is respected and admired in the community
where he lives.
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. II - By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 - Page 141 |
Annie B. Stentz
H. P. Stentz
O. W. Head |
MRS. ANNIE M.
STENTZ. Analyzation of character is perhaps the most difficult
task that ever confronts the historian, so complex are the interests that
enter in and so diversified are the forces which have influence upon the
individual. It would seem almost impossible to point out the salient
factors in the life of Mrs. Annie M. Stentz, for hers is a well
rounded life in which notable business ability, broad humanitarianism,
kindly spirit and liberal culture are well balanced forces. She is
probably without exception the most prominent and best known woman in Huron
county and has had the notable distinction of being the only woman national
bank president in the United States.
A native of Ashland county, Ohio, her birth occurred in
Mifflin township, March 31, 1846, her parents being Benjamin and Annie
(Albert) Newcomer, both of whom were natives of Monroeville, Huron
county, since 1863, and on the 4th of October, 1872, she gave her hand in
marriage to Orren W. Head, a native of Paris, Oneida county, New
York, born in May, 1808. His parents were Jonathan and
Hepzibah (Livermore) Head, natives of Rhode Island and New Hampshire,
respectively, Orren W. Head, was reared to farm life and was
educated in the subscription schools of the neighborhood. In 1836 he
wedded Julia Crane of Marchall, Oneida county, New York, and unto
them were born three sons and two daughters, but the latter are now
deceased. In 1842, Mr. Head and his family became residents of
Ridgefield township, Huron county, where he purchased four hundred and
twenty acres of land, the greater part of which was formerly the Sours
farm. As the years passed he kept his land well improved and
cultivated, bringing the fields under a high state of development so that
rich crops were annually harvested. In 1857 he erected what is now
known as the Davis block in Monroeville, where he conducted a banking
business for a number of years, the enterprise being first conducted as the
Perkin & Head Exchange Bank. Following the death of the
senior partner it became known as the O. W. Head Exchange Bank and
was so maintained until 1863, when Mr. Head sold out to S. V.
Harkness. He always conducted a private banking business and
through his careful and wise management accumulated a goodly fortune, while
the integrity of his business methods won him the high regard of all.
One of the founders of the Monroeville National Bank, he served as its
president from the time of its inception until his death, which occurred
October 2, 1882. Mr. Head was honored for his loyalty to his
friends, for his public spirited devotion to the general good and his
support of all projects for the intellectual and moral uplift of the
community. He assisted more men in their hour of need to secure homes
than any other one citizen in the county, and the spirit of friendless thus
manifested won for him an almost limitless circle of friends.
It was upon the death of Mr. Head that his
widow, now Mrs. Stentz, gave evidence of her superior business
qualifications. Assuming the management of the estate she soon
brought order out of chaos in a manner that at once stamped her as one of
the most capable of modern business women. She received a goodly
inheritance from her husband and, possessing a fondness for business
management, controlled her affairs with rare skill and discrimination.
One of her favorite investments was a stock of the First National Bank of
Monroeville, and in the course of time she and Henry P. Stentz became
the largest stockholders. Their marriage, which occurred April 15,
1901, brought about a transfusion of interests which gave them control of
the corporation.
Henry P. Stentz, up to the time of his death the
president of the First National Bank, will prominent in the array of leading
financiers and capitalists of Monroeville and Ohio. He was always a
builder and not a wrecker of fortunes, his work being along constructive
lines and of a character that contributed to general success as well as to
individual prosperity. There was no name more honored or respected
throughout Huron county than that of Henry P. Stentz, who was
richly endowed with all those qualities which constituted good citizenship
and honorable manhood. He was born in Middletown, Pennsylvania, Feb.
26, 1838, and was descended from German ancestry, from whom he inherited his
characteristic energy, good judgment and other business qualities that made
him the successful financier he proved himself to be. His parents were
Peter and Catherine (Keller) Stentz, natives of Pennsylvania, who
removed to Huron county, Ohio, in 1840. After a brief period they
established their home in Plymouth, Crawford county, to which place the
removed in 1853.
Henry P. Stentz acquired is education in the
Union schools of Plymouth and crossed the threshold of business life as an
employe of A. Atwood, a merchant and baker of that place. He
gave unfaltering loyalty to his employer and manifested unremitting
diligence in the discharge of the duties that devolved upon him. His
remuneration at the outset was only eight dollars per month, but he
gradually worked his way upward, winning the confidence and good will of his
employer by his diligence, enterprise and trustworthiness. He remained
with Mr. Atwood until after the outbreak of the Civil war, when he
launched out upon an independent business venture, speculating in several
articles of merchandise, including cotton, hemp, sugar and molasses.
This caused him to travel largely in the south and while he did not meet
with very substantial success in the undertaking, owing doubtless to the
condition of the markets in those feverish times, he yet gained broad
experience that proved an excellent stock in trade for future business
development.
Following the close of the war Mr. Stentz
retired from the field of speculation and in 1866 accepted a casher ship in
the Exchange Bank of Monroeville as successor to S. V. Harkness.
In 1879 this bank was organized as the First National Bank of Monroeville,
with a capital of fifty thousand dollars, Mr. Stentz continuing as
cashier until 1889, when he was promoted to the presidency. He also
organized the First National Bank of Galion, Ohio, one of the first
institutions of the kind established under the new regime and he was
subsequently one of the promoters and organizers of the National Bank of
Plymouth. He manifested the keenest discernment in the solution of
intricate financial problems and in connection with his banking interests he
developed a safe and conservative business policy which made his among the
strongest financial enterprises of this part of the state. Realizing
that realty is one of the safest of all investments, he made judicious
purchases of property, particularly fine farming land in the vicinity of
Monroeville, and ultimately became the owner of one thousand and five acres.
Mr. Stentz never selfishly hoarded his wealth
but was a generous contributor to many institutions and movements which were
based upon humanitarian principles. Although he did not hold
membership with any religious denomination, he attended and generously
supported the Presbyterian church at Monroeville. His record furnishes
a notable example of what may be accomplished by a conservative,
enterprising business man. Assuming the responsibilities of a bank
cashiership when twenty-eight years of age, through his close application to
every duty and his thorough understanding of the business in principle and
detail he widely promoted its growth and extended its business connections.
Following methods which neither sought nor required disguise, he furnished
an example of honorable endeavor that is indeed well worthy of emulation.
Mr. Stentz not only succeeded in elevating the Monroeville Exchange
Bank to the highest point of excellence attained by any institution of the
kind in Huron county, but in order that its interests might be extended he
succeeded in having it reorganized as a national bank and under his capable
control it was made to rank with the soundest and best managed banks of
northern Ohio.
The Monroeville Weekly Spectator, during the wild
financial panic that occurred in the summer of 1893, said: "During a
commercial crisis like that through which we are now passing, when doubt and
distrust are apparent on every hand, there is sweet consolation in the
thought that the solvency of our own home bank is unquestioned. While
hundreds of similar institutions throughout the length and breadth of the
land are forced into suspension or failure, because of the existing lack of
confidence, the First National Bank of Monroeville stands and will stand a
monument of integrity, judgment and fidelity to the efficient management it
has ever enjoyed and which today is identical with that under which it began
its career over twenty-seven years ago. The present crisis finds it in
better condition than ever before to cope with panical problems and it will
speedily and satisfactorily solve all that are presented provided they
legitimately come within the sphere of its action. Mr. Stentz
has been the moving spirit, the power behind the throne, the manager from
the organization to the present time, and to his efforts are chiefly
attributable the long continued prosperity and substantial growth that have
characterized the bank's career and the enviable reputation, standing and
confidence which it now enjoys."
The death of Mr. Stentz occurred in Monroeville,
June 9, 1903, after an illness of six weeks. He had been called one of
nature's noblemen and was a man honored by young and old, rich and poor.
One of the local papers said of him: "Mr. Stentz never aspired
to official honors, but when in 1901 Governor Nash honored him with
the appointment of trustee of the State Hospital at Toledo he accepted.
As an officer he was painstaking, prompt and accurate in duty, accommodating
to those for whom he transacted business and urbane to all with whom he ad
to deal. His business judgment was sought and relied upon. He
was always cautious in advancing an opinion, all the consequences of which
he could not forecast with reasonable certainty. There were traits of
character in H. P. Stentz that should be mentioned not only to his
individual credit but to the honor of mankind. He was always courteous
and full of genial qualities which attracted others to him, and which will
make his loss sorely felt." Without making professions of exalted
goodness, he was just to his enemies, charitable to his associates and full
of sympathy and devotion to his friends. His funeral was one of the
largest ever held in Monroeville, many coming from distant points to pay the
last tribute of honor and respect to one whom they had long known and
honored, while the entire town regretted his loss as a personal bereavement,
so closely was he associated with the life and interests of the community.
Following the death of her husband, Mrs. Stentz
took up the burden of the business affairs. The control fo the bank
stock passed to her and she was immediately made president of the
institution. This was a rare distinction, as she was the only lady
president of a national bank in the United States. Her advent was
heralded by all financial and daily papers over the country. She
insisted on conducting the business in a thorough, businesslike manner and
soon found favor with patrons and stockholders of the bank alike. The
first National under her control became recognized as a safe, sound and
prosperous concern. Not contented with her interests in that
direction, Mrs. Stentz soon turned her attention to traction
interests and now owns and controls the Sandusky, Norwalk & Mansfield
electric line between Norwalk and Shelby, Ohio. This is one of her
best investments and she is the vice president and a director of the
company. She also has many other important business interests which
engage her wise sagacity and untiring enterprise. She is the vice
president of the Hull-Stentz Realty Company, of Toledo, and
numerous other concerns and corporations. She is entirely fearless in
all of her business operations, entering upon large deals with intrepidity
and confidence. Her insight is most keen, her judgment seldom if ever
at fault.
Notwithstanding all this Mrs. Stentz is
essentially feminine and domestic in her taste, spending a great deal of her
time in her beautiful country home on the Monroeville road between Norwalk
and Monroeville. Her charities are many and she contributes to
churches and benevolent organizations most generously, yet she never gives
with ostentation or display. She has undoubtedly given as much for
such causes as any other person in the county. One of her gifts, for
which she will never cease to be remembered, was that of a handsome monument
erected in honor of the soldiers and sailors of Ridgefield. In 1901
Rev. Charles S. Aves started a movement for raising a fund for the
purpose, his plans being to take up a collection each Memorial day until a
sufficient amount was secured, but in two years only eighty-seven dollars
had been received. Mrs. Annie M. Stentz afterward announced her
determination to erect the monument to perpetuate the memory of the brave
boys in blue. The contract was awarded, the work was executed and on
the 29th of September, 1904, she unveiled the monument and presented it as a
gift to the city. It was made a gala day in the history of
Monroeville. On that occasion there was witnessed the largest
procession ever known in the town and with appropriate music and addresses
the occasion was made one never to be forgotten by any who were present.
Mrs. Stentz is ever ready to extend a helping hand to the poor and
needy and yet she does not believe in that indiscriminate giving which
fosters vagrancy or idleness. Her charities are broad and practical,
and her influence on the business life of the community has been essentially
along constructive lines. Recognized as the equal in ability of the
men who are most prominent in the commercial and financial circles of Huron
county, she is at the same time lacking in none of those social graces which
make her a most charming hostess and valued companion in social functions.
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. II - By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 |
|
ARTHUR E. STEVENS
was for many years actively identified with the agricultural interests of
Huron county, but is now practically living retired in a comfortable home in
North Fairfield, although he still retains the management of his farm of one
hundred acres in Ripley township. Throughout his career of continued
and far-reaching usefulness his duties have been performed with the greatest
care and his business interests have been so managed as to win him the
confidence of the public and the prosperity which should always attend
honorable effort.
Mr. Stevens as born in New York on the 18th of
April, 1843, and is a son of Timothy and Janet (Rose) Stevens, the
former a son of Ezra and Lucy (Foote) Stevens. He was the
eldest in a family of five children born unto Timothy Stevens and his
wife, the others being Clarence, Elizabeth, Lucy and Minerva.
Arthur E. Stevens was reared to agricultural
pursuits, giving his father the benefit of his services on the home farm
until he had reached years of maturity, when he started out in life on his
own account and has since been identified with farming pursuits in Fairfield
township. He purchased a farm of one hundred acres, to the improvement
and development of which he directed his entire energies, practicing the
rotation of crops and studying the cereals best adapted to soil and climate
and the best methods of cultivating same. He toiled earnestly from
early spring planting until late autumn harvest, and that he was successful
in his undertaking is indicated in the fact that his enterprise and industry
were crowned with a gratifying measure of success that now makes it possible
for him to live in retirement, enjoying the fruits of his former toil.
Although he retains the management of his farm, he has, nevertheless,
withdrawn from active business life, and resides in a comfortable home in
North Fairfield.
It was in 1866 that Mr. Stevens was united in
marriage to Miss Lydia Burton, who was born in Bronson township,
Huron county, in 1845 and is a daughter of Edward and Laura (Heath)
Burton. She was the eldest of a family of seven children born unto
her parents, the others being LeRoy, Dealton, Adolphus, Mary, Ida and
Emma. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Stevens has been blessed
with the following children, Jeanette, Clara, Burton, Thornton, Pearl
and Edward. The family are members of the Christian church, the
teachings of which form the guiding influences of their lives. Mr.
Stevens is democratic in politics, and although he neither seeks nor
desires office for himself, he is nevertheless loyal in his support of his
party and is public-spirited in his citizenship, at all times advocating the
measures which ten d to promote the growth and upbuilding of the community.
During the period of his residence in Huron county he has gained a wide
circle of friends who hold him in high respect and regard became of his many
sterling qualities.
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. II - By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 - Page 452 |
Mr. & Mrs. Philo Stone |
PHILO STONE
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. II - By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 - Page 474 |
Mr. & Mrs.
C. A. Sutton |
CHARLES A. SUTTON,
a wealthy farmer of Greenwich township, Huron county, and well known for the
active and influential part he has played in this locality, owns three
hundred and ninety-six acres of excellent land, upon which he lives.
It was also the place of his birth, which occurred July 4, 1844, and the
modern brick house which is his home stands not very far from the little log
cabin which was his father and mother’s first home when they came to this
county still in the state of a wilderness. He is the son of J.
Aranson and Emiline (Brady) Sutton, both of whom were parties to
experiences in the pioneer days that rival any that are told of persons who
have by virtue of circumstances attained to historic prominence.
Aranson Sutton, who was born Apr. 1, 1802, and two companions,
his twin brother Alanson and James Carver, formed a trio who came
from New York state to Ohio in 1824. They were all single men and
spent the first night in Greenwich township, Huron county, with the family
of Willis Smith, who then lived about one mile east of
Greenwich village. The three young men first took up a tract of land in
Ruggles township in what is now known as Ashland county, and began the work
of clearing. Aranson, however, after a time, sold his interest
in the land to Mr. Carver, who remained there. For a few
years he worked at whatever there was to do, until in 1828 he bought one
hundred and sixty acres of land and built his cabin home. About this
time he married, and his wife who had to share the rude cabin and the few
conveniences, did her share toward relieving the hardships of the men.
Even the simplest domestic duties were performed with difficulty, for when
Mr. Sutton and the men who helped him were out in the woods
clearing land for the crops, his wife would be cooking their meals over a
log fire in the open air. He had come to this county with three
hundred dollars in money, a log chain, an ax, and a few other belongings,
but he went to work with the determination to win. His acres grew to
the number of six hundred, and when an accident in the woods brought about
his death, Nov. 17, 1870, a train bearing down upon his wagon, which passed
over his body, he held good securities to the value of twenty thousand
dollars, besides a large amount of personal property. Not only had he
been a man who was active in advancing his own private interests, but he was
also deeply interested in public matters. For a period of twenty years
he served as justice of the peace, and it is said that during that time
almost all the marriages of this locality were solemnized by “Squire
Sutton.’’ He was an active worker in the Methodist church, being known
as an exhorter, and he contributed liberally to all church and charitable
work. In his family were five children: Charity, Mary J.,
Sarah, Louisa and Charles A. Louisa, who is now Mrs.
J. A. Fancher, and the son, Charles A., are the only members of
the family now living. Mrs. Sutton died Jan. 28, 1873,
and with her husband lies buried in Ninevah, Greenwich township.
The son grew to young manhood on his father’s farm and
acquired his early education in the county district schools, which he
supplemented by a few years at Berea College and at Oberlin. At the
age of twenty-six he married and with his wife settled on the home farm,
upon which they have lived ever since. It is a fine tract of land of
three hundred and ninety-six acres, and its fields bear witness to the
thorough methods of culture prosecuted by its owner. But though as a
farmer he is successful in the highest interpretation of the word, that is
not his only concern in life, for he has large financial interests in the
Home Savings & Banking Company of Chicago Junction and in the First National
Bank of Greenwich. In several other enterprises, large and small, he is
interested as well. In politics he and his sons are stanch republicans
and factors in the counsels of the party, frequently being members of county
committees and delegates to party conventions. Aside from such positions,
however, he has never been persuaded to accept any office within the gift of
the people, though for a long term he did serve the community well as a
member of the township school board.
On the 21st of April, 1870, Mr. Sutton
married Miss Ann E. Ellis, a daughter of William B. and Esther
(Rickard) Ellis. Mrs. Ellis was a native of Trumbull, Ohio,
but her husband came to this state from Onondaigua county, New York.
He attained to a fair prominence among the farmers here, possessing four
hundred acres of land at the time, he passed away, May 28, 1884. His
wife survived a little less than four years. Mr. and Mrs. Sutton
have three sons: Edward A., William B. and Charles D.
The eldest is a cashier in the Home Savings & Banking Company of Chicago
Junction ; the second has assumed all the responsibilities of the home farm;
and Charles D. is a coal dealer of Cleveland, being the head of the
C. D. Sutton Coal Company.
Mr. Sutton and his sons, who appear to be
following in his footsteps, are all Christians and give their support to
churches, their influence being ever exerted for the good of the community.
He is a man whose life may well bear inspection, for he is one of this
county’s finest citizens.
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. II - By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 - Page 125 |
|
E. A. SUTTON,
cashier of the Home Savings & Banking Company at Chicago Junction, was born
in Greenwich township, Huron county, April 2, 1872. He is a son of
Charles A. Sutton, who was born in the same township, July 4, 1844, and
is still living on the farm where his birth occurred, being one of the
representatives and respected agriculturists of the community. The
grandparents were Aranson and Emeline (Brady) Sutton. The
former was born Apr. 1, 1802, and with two companions—his twin brother
Alanson and James Carver - he made his way westward from
New York state to Ohio about 1824. They spent the first night in
Greenwich township, Huron county, with the family of Willis Smith,
who then lived about a mile east of the village of Greenwich. The
three young men took up a tract of land in Ruggles township, now included
within Ashland county, and began clearing the place. Throughout his
remaining days the grandfather carried on general farming in this county.
His son, Charles A. Sutton, was reared to
general agricultural pursuits and determined to engage in farming as a life
work. He still resides upon the old homestead and the splendid
appearance of the fields indicates his careful supervision and his
progressive methods. Although he is not a politician in the sense of
office seeking, he has been given several local positions, the duties of
which he has discharged with promptness and fidelity. In early manhood
he wedded Annie E. Ellis, also a native of Greenwich township, Huron
county, the Ellis family being numbered among the respected
and prominent old families of that section.
No event of special importance occurred to vary the
routine of farm life for E. A. Sutton in his boyhood and youth. He
worked in the fields during the summer months and in the winter seasons
attended school. He continued his education in the Greenwich high
school and also in Oberlin University and throughout his business career he
has been identified with banking. He was first associated with the
Oberlin Banking Company, there remaining for a year and a half, when he
removed to Berlin Heights and became assistant cashier for the Berlin
Heights Banking Company, filling that position for eight years or until
December, 1899. He then came to Chicago Junction and was one of the
organizers of the Home Savings & Banking Company. He was also elected
a director and cashier, which office he still fills, and has thus been
active in executive control of the institution, which has come to be
regarded as one of the safe and reliable moneyed enterprises of the county.
Mr. Sutton is conservative in his business methods and widely
recognized as an able and popular official, serving well the patrons of the
bank, while at all times he is uniform in his courtesy and pleasant in
manner. For the past sixteen years he has represented the Equitable
Life Assurance Society of the United States in New York city, which is one
of the largest financial institutions of the world. Mr.
Sutton has upwards of one million dollars in force, which is an
indication of his success for this company.
In November, 1896, Mr. Sutton was married
to Miss Elizabeth Romell, a native of Berlin Heights, Ohio, and they
now have two children, Howard Ellis and Harry Romell.
The parents are well known socially in Chicago Junction and have a circle of
friends here almost coextensive with the circle of their acquaintance.
Mr. Sutton is a member of the Knights of Pythias fraternity
and is prominent in Masonry, having attained the thirty-second degree of the
Scottish Rite. He is a member of Golden Rule Lodge, No. 562, A. F. &
A. M.; Golden Rule Chapter. No 167, R. A. M.; and Toledo Consistory.
He is an exemplary representative of the craft, is a public-spirited citizen
and a most reliable business man.
Source: History of Huron County, Ohio - Vol. II - By A. J.
Baughman - Chicago - The S. J. Clarke Publ. Co. - 1909 - Page 167 |
NOTES:
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