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OHIO GENEALOGY EXPRESS
A Part of Genealogy
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Medina County,
Ohio
History & Genealogy |
BIOGRAPHIES
Source:
History of Medina County, Ohio
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical
Publishers
1881
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Harrisville Twp. - Page 878 -
ALEXANDER MAIN, farmer; P. O. Lodi; is a
native of Scotland, born May 13, 1807. His parents were
William and Margaret (Reed) Main, to whom were born thirteen
children, seven boys and six girls. Alexander was
raised to farming, and lived at home until he was 18 years of age,
when he decided to learn to stonemason's trade. At the
age of 20, he was married to Elizabeth Wilson, who was born
July 22, 1809, daughter of James and Elizabeth (Richie) Wilson.
In 1835, Mr. and Mrs. Main bade old Scotland good-bye, and
embarked from America to cast their lots with the Western pioneers,
arriving in July. They came to Medina Co., and located in
Chatham Township, where he purchased 100 acres of land for $350.
No improvement had been made; "not a stick was amiss." They
erected a rough log cabin, 12x12 feet; parlor, kitchen, hall,
dining-room and up stairs were all embraced in one. With some
poles and an auger a bed was constructed, and some pegs inserted
into blocks, afforded them chairs, and, with a few dishes they had
brought with them from Scotland, they managed to make a showing of
furniture, which, simple as it was enabled them to make a
commencement. They visited their neighbors, though distant,
guided by the "blazed" trees. He subsequently added to his
original purchase 75 acres, making 175 in all. In 1870, he
sold 100 acres at $50 per acre, and the remaining at $35, and moved
to Medina, purchasing 30 acres within the corporation.
Disposing of it in 1873, he moved to Harrisville; located on a small
place three-quarters of a mile north of Lodi, where he and wife are
enjoying the evening of their life in quiet and happiness. Of
eight children born them, six are living - William, now of
Ashtabula; John, in Down; Henry, traveling;
Elizabeth, Mrs. George Coy, of Westfield; Mary, Mrs. Alonzo
Hyatt, and Margaret Ann, at home.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin &
Battey, Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 878 |
Liverpool Twp. -
JOHN MARSH, farmer; P. O. Liverpool; was born
in Bennington Co., Vt., in 1804. He is one of the pioneers of
the township, coming into it as early as 1819, and has made it his
residence ever since. He learned the trade of cooper with his
father, and was married in 1824, to Hepzibah Brainard, a
native of Connecticut. They had four children - Mary,
Franklin, Elezar and Elmer. His wife died in 1844.
He was remarried in 1853, to Sallie E. Webster, a native of
Massachusetts, by whom he had one son - Irvin J. He has
been Constable and Trustee of his township several terms; has been
Justice of the Peace for fifteen years, and is a Democrat. All
his children are married. He is a Democrat. All his
children are married. He is, at present, living a retired
life, and has the reputation of being an upright citizen and a good
neighbor.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 750 |
Spencer
Twp. -
JOHN ORISON MARSH,
farmer; P. O. Spencer. The father of Mr. Marsh, John P.
Marsh, is known as the first settler in this township, coming in
the spring of 1823, buying 104 acres of land of Simon Parkman,
two miles and a half east and north of the village of Spencer, by
road. The person named at the head of this article was then 9
years old; born Jan. 2, 1814, in Smithville, N. Y.; he married
Hannah Inman in the year 1839. Their children were named
as follows: Maria, Elizabeth, Samuel P. and John A.
His wife died Jan. 12, 1867. July 12, 1868, he married Miss
Martha Murray, sister of Squire John C. Murray, of
Spencer. Samuel P. Marsh, a brother of John O.,
was the first white child born in this township, A. D. Mar. 25,
1826; he is now a resident of Oregon, doing well and amassing
considerable property. John O., taking the gold fever
in 1849, started that year for the land of promise, crossing the
plains in wagons, until they reached Humboldt, where they took to
saddles and pack mules for the rest of the journey. After
mining and prospecting two years, he started to return via Panama
but for some reason the vessel got out of its latitude, was becalmed
for over sixty days, and the passengers and crew were put on short
allowance of food and water, for that time suffering greatly, but
were finally relieved after being out of sight of land ninety-four
days. This trip and journey, with its scenes of excitement,
danger and suffering, identifies Mr. Marsh with the
celebrated "49-ers" of that era. The writer was shown as a
relic of early days, by Mr. Marsh, the family clock,
which he has had in his family for forty years, and which cost $40.
It was made at Bristol, Conn., and has needed but trifling repairs,
and is still running, keeping good time.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 762 |
Medina Twp. -
J. S. MASON, photographer, portrait and
landscape, Medina; was born in Oneida Co., N. Y., May 30, 1844, and
came to Medina Co. with his parents in 1850. They at first
located on a farm in Brunswick Township, where they lived two years.
They then moved to Medina Township, where they rented a farm, and,
two years later, bought the same. Our subject lived at home
until 1857, when he went to Oberlin, Ohio, and, in 1858, he
apprenticed to the printers trade, in the Oberlin News
office, and served there four years. In July, 1802, he
enlisted in Co. F, 103d O. V. I., and served with that command until
June 23, 1864, when he was wounded on the skirmish line on the
Chattahoochie River, in Georgia, he receiving his discharge in
Columbus, Ohio, in October following. Shortly after his
discharge, he visited the East, and, in 1866, he engaged in the
photographing business in Rome, N. Y. He came to Medina the
following year, and has been identified with the business since,
operating at Medina, Norwalk, Cleveland and Crestline, establishing
his present business in 183. In 1868, Dec. 28, he married
Miss Mary Allen, a native of Medina Co., Ohio. They had
two children; one living, viz., Ezra A. Mr. Mason's
parents, Ezra and Lucy (Seymour) Mason, were natives of
Massachusetts and Connecticut. They came to Medina Co., Ohio,
in 1850, and, except four years' residence at Oberlin, have lived
here since. They had two children; one living, viz, J. S.
Mr. Ezra Mason had one child by a former marriage, viz.,
Ellen J.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio -
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page
694 |
Chatham Twp. -
A. R. McCONNELLSource: History of Medina County, Ohio -
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 814 |
Sharon Twp. -
WILLIAM McCOY, farmer; was born Jan. 19, 1836,
in Wadsworth Township, Medina Co., Ohio, and is a son of John and
Rebecca (Freeborn) McCoy, and grandson of Samuel McCoy,
who was a native of the "Emerald Isle," across the Atlantic.
William remained with his parents until he reached his
majority, and then went to Illinois. IN August, 1861, he
enlisted in Company I, 2d O. V. C., and after one year's service,
was discharged on account of poor health. In August, 1863, his
health had so improved that he again enlisted in the service of his
country, but this time in the infantry. In 1865, he was united in
marriage with Miss M. E. Nixon, daughter of Charles and
Catharine Nixon, and to this union were born the following
family: Minnie D., born May 3, 1866; Okie E.,
born July 12, 1867; Henry A., born Aug. 25, 1870; and
Zara and Zada, twins, born Dec. 19, 1871. After his
return from the army, Mr. McCoy located in southwestern
Sharon, where he has remained farming up to the present.
Mr. McCoy is a Republican in politics, and is an intelligent and
enterprising citizen.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin &
Battey, Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 795 |
Montville Twp. -
WILLIAM L. McDONALD
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio -
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 788 |
Litchfield Twp. -
EDWARD S. McKINZIE, M. D., Litchfield.
Edward R. McKinzie, M. D., was born in New Haven, Conn., Oct.
5, 1819. His father, Alexander McKinzie, was a woolen
manufacturer, and removed from New Haven to Litchfield, Conn., when
Edward was very young, whence he came to Ohio with his
brother-in-law, Russell Brooker, when he was 13 years of age.
He read medicine under Dr. L. E. Jones, of Cincinnati, and
graduated from the Cincinnati Eclectic Medical College, in 1851,
coming to Litchfield, Ohio, immediately upon finishing his medical
course. He has since remained here in the successful practice
of his profession. Dr. McKenzie's early educational
advantages were not the best, and his success in life is due to his
own exertions.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 747 |
Sharon Twp. -
JOHN S. MERTON, farmer; P. O. Sharon Center;
was born in Bloomsburg, Columbia Co., Penn., Nov. 21, 1813. He
is a son of Jacob and Mary (Smith) Merton, who were the
parents of the following children - Andrew H., Belinda, Mary,
Oliver P., Jacob, Catharine and Margaret A. Mr. Merton
remained on the farm with his parents until the age of 18, receiving
a common-school education during that time. At the age of 18,
he left the farm and went to learn the tanning and currier's trade,
which he followed five years, then went to Summit Co., Ohio, and
during the year of 1840, Mr. Merton was married to
Susannah May, a daughter of John May. To this union
were born the following children, - Gertrude A., Walter S.,
T. C., Charles B., Henry G., Irene M., Clara A., Edward M.,
Arthur M. and Florence R. In the year 1872, Mr.
Merton came to Sharon Township, Medina Co., where he has since
resided. He is a highly respected citizen. In politics,
he is a Republican. He owns a farm of 122 acres of
well-improved land, and is an industrious farmer.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin &
Battey, Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 795 |
Liverpool Twp. -
CHARLES J. MESSMER, lawyer; Liverpool; was
born in Bavaria in 1839. His parents emigrated to America in
1841, settling in Liverpool, where he has spent the major part of
his life. He attended the common school, and, by industry,
obtained an education, thus enabling him to teach, which he did very
successfully for a number of years. He studied law and was
under the instruction of Judge Walker, of Medina, Ohio, and
was admitted to the bar in 1872. He was married, in 1877, to
Mary Bay, a native of Liverpool. They have one son -
George F. He has held the offices of Township Clerk and
Assessor, for five years and three years, respectively, being at
present serving the second term as Justice of the Peace. He
has, by his honesty and fidelity, won the esteem and confidence of
his fellow-citizens, which he richly deserves.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 750 |
Liverpool Twp. -
CHARLES M. METZGER, farmer; P. O. Liverpool.
His parents are natives of Germany. He was born in Liverpool
Township in 1844. He was raised on a farm and at present is
following that occupation. He was married in 1868, to
Sophia E. Seffner a native of Summit Co., Ohio. They have
one child, Charles Edward. He has been Township Trustee
for several terms, and has served as Justice of the Peace and also
Land Appraiser. He is one of the influential and enterprising
farmers of his township, and is very popular throughout the county,
as was demonstrated when he was a candidate for County Auditor, he
running ahead of his ticket, his party being in a minority. He
occupies the position of Director of Farmer's Life Insurance
Company, and is a member of the German Lutheran Church.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 750 |
Spencer Twp. -
ALONZO H. MILLER, farmer; P. O. Chatham.
Samuel Miller, the father of the gentleman whose name appears
above, was born A. D. Dec. 2, 1821, and married Mar. 26, 1837, to
Miss Susanna Rice, who was born in Wayne Co., Ohio, Nov. 11,
1815; his occupation was that of cabinet-maker, learning his trade
in Massilon, Ohio; he died Nov. 27, 1850. The children were
Edwin R., born Feb. 15, 1838; Orlando died when a child;
Alonzo H., May 31, 1841; Emma E., July 2, 1843;
Charles E., Dec. 30, 1845, and George W., Nov. 11, 1848;
all born in Stark Co., this State. Alonzo wedded
Rachel A. Inman, Mar. 26, 1867. (Her father, John Inman,
was born in the State of New York, Aug. 5, 1822; he died Aug. 29,
1877; he was one of the earliest settlers of this township; her
mother, Polly E. Graves, born July 26, 1827, and died July18,
1862.) There were seven children, Frank I., born Jan.
8, 1868; Lecta E., Nov. 5, 1869; Clyde, Oct. 6, 1871
(dead); Lillian, Feb. 23, 1873, died Mar. 20, 1873; John
H., Sept. 11, 1874; Charles, July 11, 1877; Rachel A.,
Dec. 4, 1880. Mr. Miller met with the greatest
misfortune that can fall to the lot of man, by losing the partner of
his joys and sorrows, the mother of his children, who died Dec. 4,
1880; she was an estimable lady, and loving wife and mother.
Upon the breaking-out of the war, Mr. Miller, impelled by
patriotic ardor, enlisted in the 42d O. V. I., Company B, mustered
in Sept. 22, 1861, and served three years and eight days. The
regiment rendezvoused at Camp Chase, Columbus, Ohio, and were sent
from there to Eastern Kentucky. The first battle in which he
engaged was that of Middle Creek, Ky., marching from there to
Cumberland Gap, where they had a number of lively skirmishes about
that had a number of lively skirmishes about that part of the State;
were withdrawn from Cumberland Gap to Jackson, Ohio, and marched
from there to Charleston, W. Va., the enemy retreating, thence back
to Gallipolis, taking a steamer to Memphis, Tenn. The next
engagements in which the regiment took an active part were Chickasaw
Bluffs and Arkansas Post. From there to Young's Point, where
they worked on the canal, intended to changes the channel of the
Mississippi, but the father of waters was too much for engineering
skill, and the forces engaged were defeated in the attempt. He
was with the expedition to obtain cotton bales for the purpose of
protecting the men and boats preparing to run the batteries of
Vicksburg. As the country was inundated, it was not so
difficult to obtain it by poling flat-boats across the plantations
wherever cotton could be found, but not so easy to return against
the current. The succeeding action was that of Thompson's
Hill, in the rear of Grand Gulf, followed by that of Champion Hills,
near Vicksburg; he was in two desperate charges upon upon that
besieged city; also the flight at Black River and Jackson (the
second battle of that name). The regiment were then sent to
New Orleans, thence to Opelousas, West Louisiana, and back to
Plaquemine, where the majority of the regiment, tired of "tramp,
tramp, the boys are marching," offered to veteranize as cavalry, but
were refused the boon, and marched to Baton Rouge, near which place
they had a skirmish, the last fight in which Mr. Miller was
destined to he engaged. He was placed upon detached service
soon after, under Adjt. Gen. Thomas; serving his country long
and well, true to the old flag, conscious of having performed his
duty as a citizen and a man, he was finally mustered out at Camp
Chase, Ohio, Sept. 30, 1864. In civil life, he has the respect
and confidence of the neighbors, who have several times elected him
to the office of Township Trustee and Justice of the Peace.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 761 |
Hinckley Twp. -
HIRAM B. MILLER, farmer; P. O. Hinckley.
One of the best-known men in Hinckley Township is Hiram B. Miller;
he is a native of New York State, and was born Apr. 3, 1807, in
Ontario Co.; his parents were Lyman and Celia (Wheeler)
Miller, also natives of the Empire State. While a youth,
his parents removed to Henrietta, Monroe Co., where they purchased a
hotel property and a farm. The hotel was known as the "Coffee
House," and run by the Millers for over twenty years.
Hiram was married in 1829, to Miss Maria Deming, daughter
of David and Sarah (Lewis) Deming, who were residents
and old settlers of Monroe Co., N. Y.; Maria was born in
Massachusetts, and, at the age of 10, walked the entire distance
from Massachusetts to Rochester, N. Y., at the time of her parents'
emigration to Monroe Co. At the time, of his marriage,
Hiram had nothing to begin life with, excepting good health,
energy, and a determination to succeed; thus, without a dollar of
spare money, did he begin the battle of life; how well he has
succeeded, the following lines will portray. In 1831, with his
wife, he went to Canandaigua, N. Y., where his grandfather resided,
and for two years he worked one of his farms. At the end of
that time, he removed back to Henrietta, having saved about $800
within that time; he then went to work upon his father's farm, but,
after having put in the crops, finally induced his father to sell
out the whole property. Ohio at this time was presenting an
inviting field to emigrants, and here the Miller family came,
locating in Hinckley Township, in 1833, on the western township
line; here they bought together, 650 acres; Hiram buying
about 100 acres; his parents died on the old homestead after living
to see the unbroken forests blossom into fertile fields.
Hiram has resided, ever since coming to the township, upon the
land he purchased on first coming into the county, and which he has
cleared by his own exertions; his wife died Mar. 10, 1876; he has
seen children living - Cordelia M., Arethusa H., Sherman L.,
Henrietta, Betsey A., Frank D. and Harvey T. Frank
D. was in the service, belonging to 150th O. N. G. serving 100
days. Harvey T., was in Barber Sharpshooters, and
served all through the war. Mr. Miller has been one of
the foremost men in the township upon educational matters, always
taking an active interest; he has also been an efficient worker in
the temperance cause; he is a member of Meridian Sun Lodge, No. 266,
A., F. & A. M., of Richfield. Prior to the war he gained an
extended reputation from his prominent connection with the
underground railroad. Even before the enactment of the
fugitive slave law, in 1850, he had deemed it his religious duty to
use his best efforts in aiding runaway slaves to escape. But,
upon the passage of that law, believing as he did, that Devine
approval would sanction its violation and avoidance he made it a
part of his religious duty to assist the frightened and fleeing
slaves to Canada. Some residents in his neighborhood were
hostile to his movements of humanity, and often sought to discover
slaves in his care, in hopes of getting the promised reward; but no
runaway who sought his protection was ever captured. "Why,"
said he, "Mr. Reporter, I've had as high as five poor runaways
eating at my table at one time, for each of whom a reward of $500
was offered. One day, while moving in the field, suddenly a
gigantic negro rose from the grass in front of me and said: 'Oh,
Massa, can ye tell me whar 'Nigger' Miller lives?' 'Why
bless your soul, you poor fellow,' said I, 'I'm 'Nigger' Miller.'
'On Massa Miller,' exclaimed the delighted slave, while his
dark face lighted with joy, 'you look better to me than money.'"
It is needless to say that the runaway reached Canada. In
company with Joe Mason, a gifted colored man, Mr. Miller
began lecturing in schoolhouses and barns in this and adjoining
counties. He was announced to lecture at his home schoolhouse,
but a neighbor was determined that he should not do it. In an
altercation at the house, the neighbor seized Mr. Miller by
the throat, threw him with great force on the floor, cutting an ugly
wound on his head, from which the blood flowed in streams down his
neck. Money was offered to repair the injury, but Mr.
Miller nobly refused, saying that money was not what was wanted,
that the sin of slavery and the irreparable wrong done the poor
slave was what he wished every one to seriously consider.
Scores of instances can be mentioned, but these will suffice.
Mr. Miller, for his noble efforts, deserves to be classed
with such men as "Old" John Brown, Owen Lovejoy, and others,
who fought for years against slavery.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 776 |
Guilford Twp. -
JACOB MILLER, farmer; P. O. River Styx; is the
youngest son of Samuel and Elizabeth (App) Miller, and was
born Nov. 12, 1842, in Medina Co., Gilford Township. He
received a good common-school education, and, having a natural taste
for music, he cultivated this, and, for three summers, was a music
teacher. He also acted as agent for the Estey Organs for
several years, but does not allow this business to interfere with
the management of his farm. His marriage was celebrated Feb.
3, 1867, Miss Laura Rasor becoming his wife. She was
born in Wadsworth Township, Medina Co., Mar. 22, 1848, and her
father, Eli Rasor, son of Christopher and Christiana Rasor,
born June 15, 1815, is said to be the first white child born in
Wadsworth Township. As may be inferred, his educational
privileges were poor, the greater part of his youth being devoted to
the improvement of his father's farm. He was married
Nov. 21, 1834, to Eliza, daughter of James and Sabilla
(James) Boak She was born Aug. 29, 1813, in Dauphin Co.,
Penn., her parents moving to Wayne Co., Ohio, in 1824. After
his marriage, Mr. Rasor developed a farm, their first home
being a cabin, and, for some time, she did the cooking by a fire out
of doors, as they possessed neither stove nor fire-place. They
were, in later years, in quite pleasant circumstances, and had a
valuable home, created through their early labor. He died Dec.
20, 1871; his companion is yet living, making her home with her
daughter, Mrs. Miller, since 1878. Mr. Miller
has a pleasant home, and is noted alike for his hospitality and
sociable disposition. Their union has been blessed with one
child - Edwin J., born Dec. 27, 1867. Both are members
of the Lutheran Church, in which he fills the offices of Treasurer
and Organist. He is a Republican.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 726 |
Medina Twp. -
JOHN F. MILLER, farmer; P. O. Medina; was born
in Soham, Cambridgeshire, Eng., July 15, 1814, and lived there until
1840; received but a limited amount of schooling. In 1840, he
and a brother and sister came to the United States, and finally to
Medina, Ohio, where a brother already resided. The new
emigrants, bought, together, a farm of 90 acres, about two and
one-half miles north of Medina, which they occupied and farmed in
partnership for about four years, when the partnership was
dissolved, and John F. (the subject) bought 56 acres two and
a quarter miles north of Medina, upon which he built and which he
still owns. In 1870, he came to Medina, where he has since
resided (had lived in town twice before, for short periods); he was
married, Dec. 31, 1843, to Miss Lora Clark, a daughter of
Ransom and Betsey (Adams) Clark, who were natives of Connecticut
and Pennsylvania, and who came to Ohio while young; they were
married in Cuyahoga Co., Ohio, in May, 1819, and lived thereafter in
Medina. Mr. and Mrs. Miller are the parents of four
children, two of whom are living - Marietta, now Mrs.
Hills, living on homestead; Deborah at home. In
politics, Mr. Miller has always been a Republican.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 694 |
Guilford Twp. -
JOSEPH MILLER, veterinary surgeon, Wadsworth;
is a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (App) Miller, and was born
in Northampton Co., Penn., Feb. 28, 1836. His father was a
carpenter by trade in early life, and, in the fall of 1837, removed
to Ohio, where he has since lived, being a resident of Medina Co.,
Guilford Township. For a few years after his arrival, he
worked at the trade, but relinquished it for the pursuit of farming,
himself and eldest sons developing a large farm. He withdrew
from the active duties of farm life several years ago, and is yet a
vigorous and well-preserved man; his companion departed this life
Apr. 6, 1879. The subject of this article was reared to the
pursuit of farming, which he followed in the main until 1869; he,
early in life, evinced a great desire to understand the nature and
diseases of the horse, and, whenever possible, would buy books
treating on this subject. He soon, through his own exertions,
became well informed, and, in services being demanded much of the
time, he withdrew entirely from the farm to follow the profession
for which he seems designed by nature. He has been uncommonly
successful, and after a two years-course, graduated in the spring of
1879, from the Ontario Veterinary College, at Toronto, Canada; he
was married in February, 1859, to Miss Emeline Greisemer; she
was born Nov. 28, 1840, in Bucks Co., Penn., and came to Medina Co.
in the spring of 1853, being a daughter of Isaac and Mary
Greisemer; their union has proved fruitful of eight children, of
whom the youngest three are living - Isaac Gilbert, Clayton
Forest and George Franklin. Mr. and Mrs. Miller are
members of the Lutheran Church; he is a Republican.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 726 |
York Twp. -
THOMAS MILLER, farmer; P. O. Medina. The
subject of this biography was born in Cambridgeshire, England, Feb.
24, 1826. He is a son of Robert and Ann (Poolly) Miller,
who were also natives of England. Mr. and Mrs. Miller
were parents of eleven children, all dying in childhood except four.
Mr. Miller died, and was buried in England, in 1838.
Mrs. Miller continued to reside in England until 1849,
and then, complying with the request of friends in the United
States, took three of her children and set sail for that country.
After a long and eventful voyage of eight weeks on the Atlantic, and
a total of ten weeks from the time they left England, Mrs.
Miller and children arrived in Medina Co., Ohio, where her
deceased husband's brother then lived. She purchased the farm
now owned by her son, and immediately located on it. She
continued to reside in Medina Co., until the time of her death,
which event occurred at her daughter's residence in Medina, in about
1871. This family, for some reason, has been very unfortunate,
and, out of a large family of eleven, only the subject of this
memoir is living. He was reared on a farm, working hard for
the support of his widowed mother. In 1854, he married Miss
Louisa Clara, and by her had two children - Robert W. C.,
and one daughter, who died in infancy. His wife died in 1856,
and, Jan. 27, 1857, Mr. Miller was united in marriage with
his present wife, Miss Sarah H. Clark, daughter of Robert
and Mary (Slater) Clark. To this union were born eight
children, as follows: Lizzie M., Ann M., John T., Laura M.,
David A., Susie B., Electa R., and Mattie, who died
when 5 months old. Mrs. Miller was born in Derbyshire,
England, July 18, 1834. This family is of pure English
extraction, and there is not a more intelligent family in York.
Mr. Miller owns 86 acres of land in York, and 21 acres
in Medina Township. He is an earnest advocate in the
advancement of education, and is an influential citizen. His
wife is a member of the Baptist Church.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin &
Battey, Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 737 |
Wadsworth Twp. -
FRANK MILLS, farmer; P. O. Wadsworth; was born
May 14, 1836, in a house built by his grandfather, on the farm which
he settled in 1818, and in which Frank now lives with his
family and aged mother, his father having died about two years ago.
Frank is a son of Philo P. and Amoret (Bates) Mills,
after whose father the village of Bates Corners is called,
the former born in Norfolk, Conn., July 8, 1805, and the latter in
Hartland, Conn., in 1808. Their parents were among the
earliest settlers in this county. Frank received a
district school education, and attended a graded school at Western
star a few terms, till about 20 years of age, when he engaged in
farming with his father, having, before that time, rendered him
considerable service while out of school, and, being the only child,
his sister having died at 15 years of age, the care and management
of the farm would devolve upon him. He was married, Feb. 16,
1858, to Julia A. Grotz, born Jan. 1, 1840, and daughter of
Abraham and Caroline (Hayes) Grotz, of Copley, Summit Co.,
Ohio; by this union, there are four children - Fred P., born
Dec. 28, 1859; Edgar, born Dec. 16, 1860, and died Feb. 27,
1861; Mattie, born Oct. 14, 1862; Harry, born Mar. 20, 1866; all
those living are at home. Mr. Mills was elected for a term of
three years to the office of Commissioner of the county about two
years ago, which office he has acceptably filled, as well as that of
Township Trustee for several years, and is also Treasurer of the
Village School Board, of which he has been a member for the last
nine years. Mr. Mills is a strong Republican in his political
views. He is an extensive stock dealer and shipper in which
occupation his time is diligently employed, in connection with the
duties of his office. He is a prominent and enterprising
business man, respected and esteemed by all who know him.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 710 |
Sharon Twp. -
REUEL W. MILLS (deceased); was a native of
Litchfield Co., Conn., and was born June 5, 1805. His parents,
Ebenezer and Lucretia (Hinman) Mills, were parents of five
children - Corel H., Fenel W., Flora E., Ebenezer R. and
Reuel W. When but a small child, Mr. Mills father
died, and he went to live with a Mr. Dyer. In 1821, he
together with Mr. Dyer, moved to Trumbull Co., Ohio. In
about 1826, Mr. Mills went to Onondaga Co., N. Y., and
engaged there in the hatting business with an uncle. Aug. 2,
1829, he was united in marriage with Mira Beswick who died
June 19, 1848. Mr. Mills' second wife was Lucy A.
Newton, whom he was married Apr. 21, 1849. To this union
were born four children - Leroy, born Feb. 22, 1850; Sally
M., born Apr. 9, 1852, died Fe. 12, 186; Cyrus N., born
Oct 28, 1855, and Lucretia, born July 20, 1858. During
the fall of 1835, Mr. Mills came to Western Star, Medina Co.,
Ohio, and engaged with his brother Ebenezer in the
wagon-making trade; in April 1840, moved to the southeastern part of
Sharon, where he lived until his death, which occurred in 1849.
In religion, Mr. and Mrs. Mills were of the Universalist
faith.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin &
Battey, Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 795 |
Chatham Twp. -
M. MOODY, M. D., Physician, Chatham Center; is
one of the practicing physicians of this county, whose birth and
entire life have been in Connection with Medina Co.; was born in
this township Nov. 29k, 1843. His parents were E. S. and
Cynthia (Brown) Moody, both of whom have been citizens of the
county for many years. The mother of Milo is a relative
of John Brown of historic fame, whose "body," as the song
goes, "lies moldering in the grave as we go marching on." Our
subject was raised on the farm, but early in life entertained
a desire to enter the medical profession. At the age of 17, he
began teaching, and taught two terms. At the age of 18, he
began the study of medicine, reading with Dr. J. K. Holloway,
of Chester Co., Penn., and pursued his studies until his graduation,
taking his first course of lectures at the Cleveland Medical
College; second at Charity Hospital, now known as the University of
Wooster, where he graduated in the spring of 1865, and began
practicing at Howard, Center Co., Penn.; returning then to this
county, he began practice in this township in January, 1866, and has
since continued without interruption or loss of time to the present.
Nov. 17, 1869, he married Celestia A. Packard, who was born
in this township Sept. 10, 1843, daughter of Josiah and Elizabeth
(Young) Packard; he was born in Plainfield, Hampshire Co.,
Mass., May 11, 1816, and was a son of Amasa Packard. He
came West to this township in 1832. Elizabeth Young was
born in Harrisville Township, Sept. 8, 1819, daughter of Collins
and Naomi (Ayers) Young; the latter was born in New Jersey Jan.
10, 1778. To them were born a family of four children, who are
lra A., now Mrs. D. B. Allen, of Van Buren Co., Mich.;
Milan and Perlia N., now Mrs. Ira P. Holcomb,
both of Colorado Springs, and Mrs. Moody, the wife of
the Doctor. They have one child - Arthur N. Our
subject is a member of the Union Medical Association of Northeastern
Ohio, and though not engrossed in political matters, yet is a strong
advocate of the principles of Prohibition, and hopes for the
ultimate success of the party. He is a member of the
Disciples' Church. Having been raised in the township, his
merits as a citizen and a medical man have been fully tested, and
his widely extending and lucrative practice, gives ample testimony
of his worth and standing in the community.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 813 |
La Fayette Twp. -
REV. WILLIAM MOODY, farmer; P. O. Whittlesey;
born Aug. 29, 1810, in Bogaire Township, Coos Co., N. H.; the
eldest of a family of nine children, seven of whom came to the years
of responsibility; but two are now living - our subject and
Ebenezer S., now of Chatham Township. Of those who came
West and became members of families, were Abigail Boynton, of
Harrisville Township; to them were born four sons - E. M. Boynton
being one of the number, who is the inventor and patentee of the
Lightning Saw. George first settled in Virginia,
afterward in Iowa; he was a minister of the Christian Church for
many years; his children were Lewis, Ida, Harvey, Watson and
_____. Daniel settled in Chatham, finally in Michigan,
where he died, leaving one son - Watson Moody.
Charles came to Ohio, afterward went to California, and never
was heard from since. Lucy moved to Michigan; was the
wife of Alonzo Hildreth, to whom were born four sons and one
daughter. All of the above were born to Ebenezer and
Lucy (Wood) Moody. He was born in 1783, in Newbury, Mass.,
thirty miles from Boston. The Moody family originated
(according to tradition) from three brothers who left England for
America soon after the establishment of the Plymouth Colony, D.
L. Moody, the evangelist, being one of the branch. The
father of our subject was a shoemaker by occupation, which vocation
was learned by William, who, at the age of 8, bought his time
for $75, and began business on his own responsibility. In
1833, the family came West, located in Wadsworth Township, and, in
1835, settled permanently in Chatham Township, where the paternal
head died September, 1850; that of his wife in 1864, while in
Michigan. When William first came to this State, he
carried on the boot and shoe business for a time in Dover, near
Cleveland; subsequently took a contract of building turnpike in
Cleveland, where he worked three summers; cut and logged about
twenty acres from St. Clair street, next the lake, digging many of
the trees out by the roots. At this time the woodland extended
within one and a half miles of the city. After leaving
Cleveland, he came to La Fayette Township, and was for some time
engaged in administering to the spiritual wants of the people,
expounding the Gospel from Alexander Campbell's standpoint,
and, although he encountered a great deal of opposition, yet was
successful in awakening a good deal of interest in the minds of the
people, several of whom obeyed the Gospel, and, through his
instrumentality, the church took root and a society was soon
organized, and since grown to its present dimensions. His
first purchase of land was in Chatham Township, in 1837, where he
purchased 50 acres, afterward adding to the same until he had 118
acres, which he cleared up. Aug. 29, 1838, he was joined in
wedlock to Maria Ross, who was born in Windsor Co., Vt., Nov.
13, 1817, the eldest of a family of two children who were born to
Daniel and Keziah (Ainsworth) Ross, who were natives of Vermont,
and emigrated to this county in 1834. Mrs. Moody's
brother Jerry Ross, is a resident of Montcalm Co., Mich.
Mr. Moody remained on his farm in Chatham until 1871, when he
purchased the farm he now owns, consisting of 124½
acres, of Isaac Blair, who was its former owner and pioneer.
Of seven children born him, all grew up. Silas, now in
Gratiot Co., Pine Tree Township, Mich., who is one of the prominent
farmers in that locality, having 300 acres. Solon and
George lost their lives in the late war; both were members of
Co. B, 42d O. V. I., and were valiant and true soldiers.
Mary, in Michigan, the wife of Mr. Charles Judson, of
Ottawa Co. Harriet, at home. Henry,
married, and residing near his father's. John, a
teacher, unmarried and at home. At the age of 19, our subject
was converted, and joined the Baptist Church, remaining in this
connection until he was 24, when his views submitted to a change,
and, joining the Disciples' standard, has since that time preached
the truth as understood by him, as revealed by the words of Holy
Writ. Although giving his attention to farming, yet he has the
meantime preached a great deal, and, for the most part, received but
small compensation therefor. Has been an active worker in the
Master's cause, and has been instrumental in doing much good in the
church, and through his instrumentality many souls have been brought
from darkness to light.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 844 |
Sharon Twp. -
PETER A. MORE, deceased; was born in Scotland
July 9, 1797, and was a son of Lawrence and May (Beid) More,
who emigrated to the United States, landing at Philadelphia in 1801.
Soon after their arrival, this family moved to Pittsburgh. At
the age of 17, Peter came still further westward, locating in
Copley Township, Summit Co. After remaining here four years,
he returned to Pittsburgh and the following nine years was employed
in a paper manufactory at that place. In 1827, Mr. More
removed to his old home in Summit Co., Ohio, and in 1829 moved to
Sharon Township, Medina Co., Ohio. He was among Sharon's very
earliest settlers, and was, perhaps, the first land-owner in the
township. Mr. More was very intimately connected with
the early history of Sharon Township, and more of him will be said
elsewhere in this volume. In 1821, he was united in marriage
with Martha W. Boggs, and this union was blessed with a
family of thirteen, as follows: Andrew B., Eleanor H.,
Thomas W., A. P., Henry H., Martha J., May R., Cornelia A., Lawrence
W., John F., Cornelia, Eliza T. and Augusta. Mr. More
was a gentleman whose private and public life was above
reproach, and his sterling qualities made him many warm and sincere
friends; his death occurred Nov. 11, 1859; he and wife were members
of the Methodist Church.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin &
Battey, Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 795 |
Chatham Twp. -
H. MORGAN; P. O. Chatham
Center; born Sept. 8, 1822, in the town of Sheffield, Berkshire Co.,
Mass. His parents were Elijah and Polly (Strong), Morgan.
Elijah was the youngest of a family of fourteen children.
The greater portion of the family were born in Litchfield Co.,
Conn., the remainder of them in Berkshire Co., Mass., where James
removed and lived until his death. Elijah and his
wife were born in Massachusetts. To them, were born a family
of eight children, seven lived to be grown, five now living -
Lydia, in Burbank, Wayne Co., Ohio, who married John
Perkins; George, in Michigan; Harriet, married
John Burry; Hiram, this township, and Phebe A.
Prentice, of Lodi, relict of Squire W. W. Prentice.
Elijah came West in June, 1829; came first to Lodi, and settled in
Harrisville Township, and cleared up the farm now owned by
Charles Fenstermaker. He died on this farm in
October, 1848. His wife survived him until 1877. Upon
this farm, our subject took his first lesson in pioneering; remained
with his father until Nov. 17, 1847, at which time he was wedded to
Delilah Sanford, born May 28, 1830, in Erie Co.,
Penn., daughter of Beers and Rachel (Ackley) Sanford.
After Mr. Morgan was married, he remained about three
years on his father's farm. In 1851, he purchased 60 acres of
W. W. Prentice, at $13.66 per acre, upon which place there
was a small cabin, and a partial improvement; here he located, and
has since been a constant resident, remaining in the log cabin until
1871, when he built his present neat and comfortable dwelling.
In 1857, August 5, after having his entire crop safely stored in his
barn, it was struck by lightning, all destroyed, including harness,
tools, etc.; with the exception of about S225 insurance, was a total
loss. Has three children - Adaline, Mrs. Stephen
Fellows, this township; Evalaide, at home; Orville,
in Jasper Co., Mo., who married Alice Sheldon,
Orlow died at 14 years of age. Mr. Morgan
has a comfortable and pleasant home, his yard being tastily set out
with evergreens and hedge. For thirty-one years Mr.
Morgan has been a member of the M. E. Church. His father
was a Whig; he a consistent Republican.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago:
Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 813 |
Brunswick Twp. -
JOHN W.
MORTON, farmer; P. O. Brunswick; was born in Massachusetts in
1819; came to this county in 1833, and has lived here ever since.
He was married, in 1841, to Harriet Hall; they had four
children - Emma, Ellen, Mary and Frank. She died
in 1870; he was remarried to Mary A. Collyer, a native of
England. He is a member of the M. E. Church. He has
served as Township Trustee several terms, and also as Assessor.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 767 |
Brunswick Twp. -
OMRI MORTON, farmer; P.
O. Bennett's Corners. Simeon Morton, the grandfather of
the subject of this sketch, was married to Sybil Graves; they
had three children, among whom was Reuben Morton, who was
married to Mary Frary. They had eight children.
Omri Morton, was born in Whately, Franklin Co., Mass., July
24, 1815. He attended the common schools, and learned the
trade of stonemason. He came to Medina Co. in 1840, and was
married to Selecta Carpenter, a native of Strongville,
Cuyahoga, Co., Ohio. They have four children - Bradley C.,
married to Sarah Beaham, who have three children - Lena,
Lucy and Alma; Mary, married to W. Clement who
have one child - Rollin; Alexander H. and Marcus.
He is a highly respected citizen, and in extensively acquainted
throughout the township.
Source: History of Medina County, Ohio - Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
Historical Publishers - 1881 ~ Page 767 |
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