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BIOGRAPHIES
Source:
History of Stark County:
with an outline sketch of
Ohio
Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
1881
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Lexington Twp. -
JOSEPH SEBRELL, farmer; P. O.
Limaville; was born in Sussex Co., Va., Apr. 15, 1796,
the fifth child of Joseph and Rebecca (Jones) Sebrell,
who with their six children, were a part of the party of
some fifty persons who emigrated from Virginia to Ohio
in 1807. Several families came direct to Stark
Co., while Mr. Sebrell's family located near
Salem, and remained there until 1823. His father
was a hatter by trade, and during the pioneer days, when
it was almost impossible to procure money for produce of
any kind, Mr. Sebrell vound his manufactured
articles a handy commodity to exchange for other
necessaries. When he got the hatting business
established, his sons also worked at the trade with him,
but soon turned their attention to farming. The
subject of these notes states that their first few crops
of corn were almost all devoured by squirrels, having in
his boyhood, day by day paced the field and guarded the
seed corn when planted, until it had grown beyond the
stage when liable to suffer from the pests; but as soon
as it formed "ears," the ravages of these pests were as
bad as ever, necessitating the corn to be cut when only
in roasting-ear, and gathered near their cabin for
protection. His father came to Stark Co., and
purchased 160 acres about a mile west of Lexington, and
to this location the family removed from Salem in 1823.
Previous to their removal, Joseph, the subject of
those notes, married Mary Shinn, in 1817. She was
born in New Jersey, July 3, 1798, and came with her
parents to Salem in 1803. Mr. and Mrs. Sebrell
have been familiarized with hardship in pioneer
life, which can be realized only by those who settled in
the unbroken forest, where naught of civilization was to
be found. They are both hale, and happily passing their
declining days with their daughters. Although
Mrs. Sebrell has for some time been totally
blind, and the organs of hearing somewhat affected, she
is otherwise enjoying good health, and is sound of mind,
with a wonderful memory of past events. They are
parents of nine children, all of whom lived to maturity—Abigail
(deceased), wife of Jos. Wiley; Mathews; Rebecca,
wife of E. Bennett; Thomas; Mary A. (deceased),
wife of J. Kennedy; Elizabeth, wife of
Aaron Gibson; Hannah, Joseph and
Hulda.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page
764 |
City of Alliance -
HENRY SHAFFER, farmer and shipper of moulding
sand; P. O. Alliance; was born in Washington Tp., Stark
Co., Ohio, Jan. 7, 1834; the fourth of eight children
born to Samuel and Mary (Berger) Shaffer, whose
sketch appears in this work. His parents moved to
Alliance when he was quite young. He went out to
his uncle Jonathan Shaffer's, where he lived
three years. When about 16 years of age, he began
to learn the carpenter's trade with James K.
Blackburn and followed that business until 1856, in
the meantime having contracted and built many farm
buildings. Dec. 24, 1855, he married Elizabeth
Chance; they have one child, Franklin H.
Mrs. Shaffer is a daughter of Perry and Lovina
Chance, of Alliance. For two years he was
running a saw-mill, and in 1858 he rented a small farm
and turned his attention to farming, which lasted only
that season. Having lost all his crops by the
severe and memorable freeze in June, 1858, he became
disgusted, and secured a position on the P., Ft. W. & C.
R. R., as a brakeman, but was soon placed in charge of a
freight train; then promoted to conductor on a passenger
train between Ft. Wayne and Chicago, having his
residence in the latter place, from 1861 to 1866.
They returned to Alliance, when he quit railroad work,
where he has remained since. He purchased a small
farm of 43 acres, on which is found valuable beds of
moulding sand, for which there is good demand in
the moulding establishments all over the country, from
Pittsburg east, to Indianapolis and Chicago in Pittsburg
east, to Indianapolis and Chicago in the west.
Mr. Shaffer has been a member of the Masonic
fraternity since 1866. He has been a Director of
the Alliance & Lake Erie Railroad, and for two years
Superintendent of said railroad, and one of its
promoters.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page
741 |
Nimishellen Twp. -
ISAAC SHAFFER, conductor, P., Ft. W. & C. R. R.;
Louisville; was born in what was then Freedom, now
Alliance, July 8, 1845. He is a son of Samuel
and Mary M. (Berger) Shaffer, a detailed sketch of
whom will be found in the biographical department of
Lexington Tp. Isaac Shaffer was reared in
his native town until he was 17 years of age. HE
then (1862) left home and went to Chicago, where he had
a brother on the P., Ft. W. & C. R. R., as conductor.
Obtaining a position on the same road as brakeman, he
remained here some eight months, and was then
transferred to Alliance, where he remained about nine
months as brakeman. He was then promoted to
conductor of through freight. He remained in this
capacity until 1869, when he was appointed conductor of
the construction and wreck-train running between Salem
and Wooster, with headquarters at Louisville. He
has been ever since at this, and has a record of
nineteen years of steady work on the P., Ft. W. & C. R.
R. Mr. Shafer was married Apr. 14, 1864, to
Miss Sarah C. Henry, daughter of Frank C. Henry
and by her had a family of five children - Charles W.
(deceased), Cora J., Grace I., Samuel O. and
Ralph. Mrs. Shaffer was born Sept.
1, 1844. Mr. Shaffer is a staunch
Republican in politics, and his wife is a member of the
United Brethren Church.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page
916 |
City of Alliance -
JACOB SHAFFER, treasurer and secretary of the
Alliance Bagging Co.; Alliance; was born in Washington
Tp., this county, July 3, 1828. He is the son of
Samuel and Mary M. Shaffer, who is referred to
elsewhere in this work. His boyhood was spent in
his father's store as clerk while he was yet quite
young, in which capacity he continued many years.
On attaining his majority he entered into partnership
with his father in the mercantile business; they
established a general store of merchandise, besides
handling produce largely. They also took in as
partner one A. C. Hanger, the firm name being
S. Shaffer & Co., which was dissolved in 1857.
Our subject then embarked in the dry goods trade with
Mr. Keplinger for about three years. In
1862 a partnership was formed between himself and Mr.
Ely, in the mercantile business which lasted
until 1872. In the meantime he and Mr.
Ely had taken an interest in the bagging manufactury,
and ere long Mr. Shaffer joined the latter
establishment, and has been an active member of the firm
ever since. He was married to Emeline Stanley
in March, 1848. She was a daughter of L. B.
Stanley, of Mahoning Co. They have six
children, viz.—Minerva J., Emma S., Alonzo T.,
Frovilla, Charles C, and Henry C. Mr. Shaffer is one
of those unassuming, quiet business men, who watch their
own business interests without courting a superficial
popularity. He has been elected, and served
several years as member of the Alliance Town Council.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page |
Washington Twp. -
JOHN SHAFFER, deceased; a prominent farmer of
Washington Township for many years; born July 23, 1819,
and died Apr. 6, 1866; he was the son of William and
Sophia Shaffer, who were among the first settlers of
Washington Township; they moved to Stark County from
Pennsylvania about 1816, locating first on the farm now
owned by Jerry Byers; in about one year, they
removed to where Eph Pickens now resides, in
Nimishillen Township, but afterward returned to their
first location. William Shaffer was a
member of the Lutheran Church; he owned at one time over
500 acres of land; he died in December, 1858, aged 83
years; he was the father of thirteen children, viz.,
Elizabeth, married John Byers; both are
deceased; Daniel, formerly of Washington, now
deceased; Samuel moved to Alliance and died
there; Mary married John Klingaman; both
are deceased; Catharine now Mrs. David
Klingaman, of Washington; William and
Henry, of Washington; Susan, now Mrs.
William Altman, of Portage County; Esther
married Daniel Byers; both are deceased; Sarah
married John B. Miller, now deceased;
Jonathan, of Washington; John, died in
Washington; Sophia, now Mrs. Abraham Roos,
of Illinois. The subject of this sketch was born
on the farm now occupied by Jeremiah Byers, in
Washington Township; he learned the shoemaker's trade in
early life, but never followed this occupation much.
He was married, in 1838, to Margaret Cairns, a
native of Scotland, daughter of Andrew and
Margaret (Pagan) Cairns, born Nov. 24, 1814.
Mr. Shaffer lived several years on 30 acres now
owned by David Byers, and in the spring of 1849
removed to the farm now owned by his heirs, which land
he purchased from William Davidson; he was chosen
Township Trustee several years, and filled other minor
offices; was connected with the Presbyterian Church at
Homeworth. He was the father of five children,
viz., William, eldest son, now Justice of the
Peace in Nimishillen Township; he was married, March,
23, 1865, to Miss Lydia Trump; Andrew J., the
second, now a resident of Washington, east of Freeburg,
was married, Feb. 4, 1868, to Miss Nancy Fox; Joseph
and James A. Shaffer are now residing at the
homestead with their mother and sister, Miss Jennie.
They own at the present time 96 acres; are engaged in
farming and stock-raising. Their present residence
was built in 1854. The family are connected with
the Presbyterian Church at Alliance.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 1009 |
City of Alliance -
SAMUEL SHAFFER, deceased; was born
in eastern Pennsylvania, in 1803; the second child of a
family of thirteen children born to William
Shaffer. William Shaffer came to
Ohio with his family in 1814, and located in Washington
Tp., Stark Co., where he entered considerable land.
His numerous family of children all lived to maturity,
and he and his wife remained in the same place until
their demise, which occurred many years ago. Their
sons all settled in Ohio, but some of their daughters
removed to the west with their families. Samuel
married Mary Barger, Sept. 20, 1825. She
was daughter of Christian Barger, a
minister of the United Brethren Church, who came with
his family from Pennsylvania early in the spring of
1825, and settled at Harrisburg, Stark Co. He
labored in the good cause for about three years in the
pioneer settlements, when the Master called him
from earthly scenes. Mr. and Mrs.
Shaffer pursued their farming vocation about two
arid a half miles southwest of Mt. Union, until by
rheumatism he was disabled in one leg, being then less
able to indulge in active work of the farm, and still
retaining his usual energy, he was determined to do
something; so he opened a grocery at his residence,
which he conducted for about three years. In 1841
he moved to Freedom—now Alliance—and opened the second
store ever in this place. He was early identified
with the United Brethren Church, of which he was Trustee
for many years, but subsequently united himself with the
M. E. Church, which denomination granted him a license
to preach, but being of a reserved and retiring turn of
mind, ho never entered on ministerial duties. He
was a man of good business ability, and did much for the
general welfare and development of Alliance. In
partner-ship with his son Jacob, he built the
provision warehouse now owned by Jacob Lower,
and conducted business there several years. He was
chosen Township Trustee, which office he held for many
years. Mr. and Mrs. Shaffer were parents of
nine children, eight of whom lived to maturity, viz:—Jacob,
Henry, Samuel (was a conductor on the P.,
Ft. W. & C. R. R., on which he sustained fatal injuries
at Massillon,) Isaac, Sarah, Susan,
Sophia and Lucinda. Mr.
Shaffer died Feb. 7. 1877. Mrs.
Shaffer is left in very comfortable circumstances,
and is remarkably hale for one of her age, and
especially for one who has cared for so large a family,
and borne the burthen and withstood the trials of
pioneer life.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page
743 |
Nimishellen Twp. -
WILLIAM SHAFFER, stock-raiser and farmer; P. O.
Louisville; was born Nov. 18, 139, in Washington Tp.,
Stark Co., Ohio. He is a son of John and
Margaret (Cairns) Shaffer, who were parents of a
family of five - William, Andrew J., Joseph,
James, and Jane. The mother of these
was a native of Scotland, and the father was born in
Washington Tp., Stark Co., Ohio, in 1819. The
subject of this biography is a grandson of William
Shaffer, who came to Stark Co. about 1815, from
Pennsylvania. John Shaffer was a farmer.
He was an honest and upright citizen, and a man highly
respected. His death occurred in 1866; his widow
being yet living on the old farm in Washington Tp.
William Shaffer passed his youth and early
manhood with his parents on the farm, and since has made
farming his occupation. He received a good
common-school and academical education, and in March,
1865, married Lydia, daughter of Peter and
Catharine (Shaffer0 Trump. By her he has a
family of eight children - Ida J., Ella, Lillie,
Charles, Ada, Clara L., Elmer and Nettie.
Mrs. Shaffer was born Apr. 14, 1841. In
1865 Mr. Shaffer moved on, and purchased 68 acres
of the far he now owns, which he has increased to a fine
farm of 139 acres. He started out in life with but
little means at hsi command, but with the help of his
wife, has made a valuable and pleasant terms' experience
in the public schools. He is a Democrat, and has
held various township offices. He and his wife are
members of the Reformed Church, and are respected and
intelligent citizens.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page
915 |
Osnaburg Twp. -
B. F. SHENGLE, lumber dealer and
sawyer, Osnaburg. Benjamin F. Shengle was
born in Lancaster Co., Penn., Feb. 8, 1831, son of
John and Mary (Boucher) Shengle; at the early age of
two he moved with his parents to Nimishillen Twp.; he
served an apprenticeship upon the farm until his 20th
year, at which time he engaged himself to Eph. Fink,
a leading carpenter, from whom he learned the trade.
During the seven years that he followed his business, he
spent one year in Indiana; in 1858 he returned to the
old homestead and conducted the farm for about five
years. Preferring village life, he moved to
Osnaburg and engaged again in the lumber and building
business and purchased a half interest in the village
saw mill, supplying the lumber for many of the county
contracts in bridge-building and other public work.
At present he is also a member of the newly organized
Osnaburg Coal Co., having the contract for sawing all
the timbers used in the mine. In 1855 he was
united in marriage to Miss Fannie Youtz, of Stark
Co.; of this union there are eight children - Josiah,
William, Franklin, Benjamin. William is in the
livery business at Louisville, the other boys are still
at home. Mary A., Ellen, Sarah and Alice
are the four daughters. Mary is wife of
Henry Warner, Marlborough Twp.; in politics has
always been a Republican. His friends and
neighbors have honored him with local offices and
duties, as Township Trustee, Delegate to the county
conventions; was appointed one of the agents to
incorporate the rising city of Osnaburg. He is a
member of Lodge No. 60, A. F. & A. M., of Canton; his
wife is a communicant member of the Evangelical Church.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 846 |
Osnaburg Twp. -
JOHN SHENGLE, deceased; was born
in Chester Co., Penn., Mar. 6, 1797. He was one in
a family of nine born to Martin and Elizabeth (Moonshower)
Shengle, who were also natives of Pennsylvania.
When 17 years of age, John left the home farm,
and commenced working at the stone mason's trade, a
business he followed until his marriage with Mollie
Bucher, which took place about 1819, in Lancaster
County. His wife was a daughter of Jacob Bucher,
a family well known in that county. He lived in
Pennsylvania, farming until 1834, when he moved to Stark
Co., O., locating in Nimishillen Township, on the farm
now owned by J. B. Draime. The farm at that
time was only about one-third cleared, and after his
settlement Mr. Shengle commenced clearing and
improving the place, and soon erected a saw mill, which
was for many years the leading saw-mill in the
neighborhood. Mr. Shengle was a man of
considerable ingenuity, and while he did not profess to
be a master mechanic of any kind, he always did the
harness and shoe-making for his own family, and to some
extent for his neighbors also. To his union with
Miss Bucher, there were born - Susan, Sarah,
Nancy, Mary, Elizabeth, B. F., Jacob and J. B.
Mr. Shengle died Feb. 23, 1872. He was a man
well known to the community for his upright character
and deep religious principles, being a member of the
German Baptist Church for upwards of fifty years.
His political actions were with the Democrats, until
Lincoln's nomination in 1860, when he voted the
Republican ticket, and afterwards became identified with
that party. His widow still survives him, and is a
resident of Wyandot Co. Jacob Shengle,
their son, was born May 23, 1847, in Nimishillen
Township on the old homestead. He remained at
home, assisting on the farm until 21 years old, during
which time he received a very ordinary education.
He was married June 1, 1858, to Catherine Bower,
daughter of David and Mary (Bollinger) Bower.
This lady died Feb. 15, 1859. Mr. Shengle's
second and present wife is Melinda, daughter of
Isaac and Susan (Stull) Myers, who was born in
Osnaburg Township in October, 1845. By her he has
a family of eight - Milton, Abana, Olivia, Phebe,
Vinnie, Ira, L. D. and Maude. After his
marriage, Mr. Shengle worked as a day laborer for
a few years. In 1863 he started a steam saw-mill
at Osnaburg, and followed that until the spring of 1875,
when he formed a partnership with Elias Essig, at
Louisville, in a planing mill and general lumber
dealing. The firm name is Essig & Shengle;
a more detailed account of their business will be found
in the history of Louisville. Politically
speaking, Mr. Shengle is a staunch Republican,
adhering to the principles laid down by the National
Republican Party. In 1868 he was elected Justice
of the Peace in Osnaburg Twp., and was successively
re-elected until 1880, when he refused to serve again,
as his business did not give him the time to attend to
the office.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 847 |
Bethlehem Twp. -
GEORGE W. SHEPLER, Navarre.
Mathias Shepler, grandfather of this gentleman,
was one of the first settlers of Bethlehem Township,
when he owned a large tract of land; was an intelligent
enterprising citizen, a Democrat of the old school, and
represented his State in the Twenty-fifth Congress; he
was the parent of a large family of children, one of
whom, John R., is the father of our subject.
This son received such education as the common schools
of that early day afforded; he married Miss Elizabeth
Younkman, who bore him five children. A few
years after the death of this lady, he was married to
Miss Christina Beavers, who bore him five children.
Mr. Shepler has, for about forty years, been a
minister of the Gospel in the United Brethren Church.
He owns a large and well-improved farm in Bethlehem
Township, upon which his son, George W. resides;
he is engaged in ministerial labors at present, at
Louisville and Alliance; he is an upright, Christian
gentleman, respected by all who know him.
George W. Shepler was born in Harrison Co., Ohio,
Nov. 30, 1856, his youth being passed upon his father's
farm. He was married to Miss Susan Way Dec.
2, 1875. This lady was born in Tuscarawas Co.,
Ohio, Sept. 9, 1854. By this union there is one
child, viz.: Minnie A., George W. has had charge
of his father's farm for the past seven years, and is a
successful farmer and stockraiser; he is a young man of
ability, respected by all who know him.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page
995 |
|
City of Canton -
HON. JOHNSON SHERRICK, merchant,
Canton; was born
Aug. 28, 1841, near Canton, Stark Co., Ohio, his father,
Christian Sherrick, is spoken of
elsewhere in this work; our subject grew up and attended school in his native
county, working on the farm in the summer and teaching during winters; in 1863,
he went to St. Louis and engaged in business, but in a short time enlisted in
the marine service, and was detailed for duty as a clerk on a Government
transport; he was taken sick and after his discharge taught school at Richville,
Stark Co.; in 1870, he engaged in the hardware business, firm of
Sherrick & Miller, which firm is yet
doing business in Canton; in 1873, as the first Democrat elected from Stark Co.
for many years, he went to the State Legislature, was re-elected in 1875 and in
1877, was elected to the State Senate for the district composed of Stark and
Carroll Cos., by a large majority; he was a good worker and popular with his
fellow members. As Chairman of the
Democratic County Central Committee and Delegate to the State Conventions he is
highly esteemed by his constituents as a most useful and effective assistant in
all campaign work. Oct. 14, 1875, he
married Miss Charlotte, only daughter
of D. D. Miller, of Wooster, Ohio, a
highly accomplished and respected lady.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 -
Page 635
|
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City of Canton -
CHRISTIAN SHERRICK, retired farmer, P. O. Canton; was born in Washington
Co., Md., Nov. 8, 1812, and is a son of
John and Nancy (Wyant) Sherrick. Our subject lived at home until 1839, being
brought up to farming, and receiving but a limited education in the common
schools. In 1839, he came to
Ohio, stopping at Dayton, where he engaged for two years in canal boating between that place and
Cincinnati, visiting, in the meantime,
New Orleans, remaining one winter in the South,
and on returning in the spring to Dayton, resumed boating. In
the fall of 1840, he was married to Miss
Mary Danforth of Hamilton, Ohio, after which he returned
to Stark Co., and located on a farm belonging to his father, where he lived two
years, and then removed to the old homestead farm, residing here until 1873, when
he retired, and moved into Canton, and has lived here since. Hiss wife died Dec. 8, 1866; they had
seven children, of whom six are still living, viz.:
Johnson, Elvina, Louisa, Joseph
(deceased), Jacob D. (Physician),
Newton, Kan.; Ida M., now
Mrs. William J. Hartzell, of Fort
Wayne Ind., and Alvin B. Mr. Sherrick has always been a
Democrat.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 -
Page 636
|
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City of Canton -
DAVID SHERRICK, retired farmer, Canton; was born at Hagerstown, Md., in
the year 1807, son of John and Nancy
(Wyant) Sherrick, who were natives of Lancaster Co., Penn., and were married
in Washington Co., Md.; they lived in Maryland a number of years, and removed to
Pennsylvania, remaining two years, and then came to Ohio; they had six children
at the time and came on by team.
Mrs. Sherrick riding the entire way
on horseback; they settled two and a half miles southeast of Canton in 1816,
where they lived until his death, at the age of 75 years – she died some three
years later; David lived at home
until he was about 26 years old, his education being limited to the schools of
the time; at 26 he and his brother Jacob made a raft of pine logs at State Line, between New York and Pennsylvania, which they took
to Cincinnati, remaining there some time in the lumber business; after which he
located near Canton on a piece of land belonging to his father, when he began
manufacturing earthenware which he continued but a short time; he removed to St.
Louis soon after but did not remain
long, returning by wagon to Dayton, Ohio, where for four years he followed canal
boating; in 1840, he returned to Canton and was engaged in farming and in
manufacturing stoneware, and lived in several different neighborhoods; in 1868,
he moved into Canton where he has ever since resided. In 1836, he married
Miss Rebecca Longstarf – she died in
1861; they had six children two of whom are living –
Emma, now
Mrs. Kitzmiller, living north of Canton, and John, living in Canton.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 -
Page 635
|
Bethlehem Twp. -
JOHN SHETLER, deceased. This
gentleman was born in Stark Co., Ohio, Sept. 20, 1821.
He was the son of John and Elizabeth (Barnett) Shetler.
The father was a native of Germany, but came to the United
States, Germany, but came to the United States, with his
parents, when about 10 years of age. He was married to
Miss Barnett in Pennsylvania, and resided there until
1816, when he moved to this county, and settled in Sugar
Creek Township; here he remained some years, and then moved
into Bethlehem Township, which he ever after made his home;
he was always engaged in agricultural pursuits, at which he
was very successful. In his family were seven
children, all of whom reached man and womanhood. "Uncle
Johnny," as he was familiarly called, was known to
all the early settlers as a man of great goodness of heart
and sterling integrity; he was ever ready to help the poor
and needy and contributed liberally to all educational and
religious enterprises; he died in 1874. John
Shetler, son of this worthy gentleman, was raised upon
his father's farm, receiving his education in the log
schoolhouses of that early day. He was married to
Miss Sarah Birchfield, June 20, 1845. This lady is
the daughter of John and Mary Birchfield, who were
among the early settlers of Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, and whose
birth occurred in that county June 26, 1825. Soon
after their marriage, they took up their residence in this
county. They had but little to commence life with, but
by hard work they acquired a goodly share of this world's
goods, and at the time of his death, which occurred May 9,
1876, he was one of the wealthiest men in Bethlehem
Township; he never aspired to political prominence, although
decided in his views, which he never failed to express at
the ballot-box; he was an intelligent, Christian gentleman,
favoring everything known to be right, and promptly
rejecting everything known to be wrong. In his family
were thirteen children, eight of whom are yet living, viz.:
Emmanias, Jacob, David, Eli, Elizabeth, Naomi, Saloma
and Emma. Those deceased were named Mary,
Sarah E., Solomon, Isaiah and Charley.
Since here husband's death, Mrs. Shetler has resided
upon the old homestead, which she has entire control of
during her life-tie. She is a lady of more than
ordinary intelligence, and has social and moral qualities of
a high order. The family is one of the most
intelligent in the township, and have the respect of a large
circle of friends and acquaintances.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page
995 |
Sugar Creek Twp. -
SOLOMON
SHETLER, farmer; P. O. Justus; is a son of John
Shetler, who emigrated from Germany to Westmoreland Co.,
Pa.; resided there eight years, and then moved to Stark Co.,
O., about 1814; settled on the Stone Ridge, since called
Shetler Hill. Abut 1850 he moved to Bethlehem
Twp., where he was a pioneer of the Lutheran Church; but in
a few years he returned to Sugar Creek, where he died about
1873. His wife, Elizabeth, died in 1862, a
member of the Evangelical Association. She was born in
Westmoreland Co., Pa., and her maiden name was Barrett.
Of the seven children born to them, two sons and two
daughters are dead. Of three remaining sons -
Jacob, Samuel, and Solomon - the last-named, born
June 5, 1832, passed the first fourteen years of his life in
Sugar creek, and the next seven in Bethlehem Twp. On
his marriage, Mar. 20, 1853, he returned to Sugar Creek, and
located where he has since lived. His wife is
Amanda, daughter of William and Mary (Hess) Rider.
Her father, a Virginian pioneer of the township, had but
one other child, Henry. Their family consists
of eleven children, of whom Mary J. is the wife of
Nelson Houenstine; John F. also married, and live in
Bethlehem Twp.; William H. is a teacher; and
Sylvester, a graduate of the college at Ada, is studying
medicine; while the home-nest still holds Lavina, Ellen,
Clark, Agnes, Hattie, Daniel and Martha A. Mr.
Shetler has 96 acres of land in Sugar Creek, and 65
acres in Bethlehem Twp. He is a Republican, and has
served five years as a Trustee. Mrs. Shetler is
a member of the United Brethren Church.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 |
Nimishillen Twp.
DR. JOHN SHILLING, Louisville.
The subject of this biography was born near
Frankfort-on-the-Main, Germany, Oct. 10, 1794. His
early life was passed chiefly in going to school and in
the acquirement of knowledge. He received an
excellent classical education, and when about
twenty-five years of age commenced the study of
medicine. Mr. Schilling received
instructions from the best medical professors of Europe,
among whom was the celebrated specialist. Prof.
Schoenlein. He finally, about 1836, graduated
with honors at Wurtzburg Medical College. For ten
years succeeding his graduation, Dr. Schilling
practiced medicine in Germany. A spirit of
enterprise then taking possession of him, he determined
on crossing the Atlantic, to seek a home and fortune in
America. During the spring of 1837 he came to the
United States via Havre and Baltimore, and from the
latter place came
to Bolivar, Tuscarawas Co., O., whore he practiced about
eight months. He then came to Louisville, Ohio,
where he remained until 1811, and then removed to
Osnaburg, where he still continued practicing. In 1852
his health failed from over-exertion and exposure.
To avoid his large practice he moved to Crestline, Ohio,
engaging in the drug trade. After a residence
there of eighteen months he returned to Louisville,
where he again actively engaged in medical pursuits,
continuing so until 1875, when he retired from active
life, his son, J. P., superseding him.
During his early career. Dr. Schilling's
practice extended over a large territory. He made
a specialty of diseases of the eye, operating for
cataract quite frequently by what is known as the
"lateral operation," all of which were successful.
He also paid considerable attention to deformities, such
as club-foot, hair-lip, etc., often being called far
beyond his usual practice to attend to such cases.
He was one of the earliest and most successful
practitioners of Nimishillen Tp. He was married in
Germany, in 1835, to Elizabeth Schroeder,
and by her had seven children—Catharine, Conrad, J.
P., John, John, Edward and
Tillie. Only Catharine, J. P.,
Edward and Tillie are now living.
Catharine is the wife of J. G. Prenot; J. P.
married Kate Mathias; Edward
married Ella McGregor; Tillie is
single, and all are living in Louisville. J. P.
Schilling commenced the study of medicine under his
father about 1857, and in 1860 took a course of lectures
at the Western Reserve College in Cleveland. He
graduated from the Starling Medical College at Columbus
during the winter of 1863-4. In May, 1864, he enlisted
in the 34th Reg. O. V. M. I. as assistant surgeon, and
served with that regiment until it was captured in
January, 1865, at Beverly, West Virginia. He then
served under contract for six weeks at Camp Chase, after
which he was commissioned assistant surgeon of the 88th
O. V. I., and was finally discharged at the close of the
war. His marriage with Miss Mathias
was celebrated Nov. 13, 1866. To this union were
born — Charles, Frederick and Ida
May. The drug store of J. Schilling
and Son was established in 1853, and is among the
leading business houses of Louisville.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
1881 - Page 914 |
Tuscarawas Twp. -
JOHN W. SHILLING, farmer; P. O.
Massillon; was born Oct. 2, 1822, in Lawrence Township,
he being the second of a family of nine children.
His father Samuel, was born 1802, September 16,
in Lancaster County, son of Jacob Shilling,
to whom were born seven children, five sons and two
daughters. The Shilling family
emigrated West to Stark County in 1816, locating in this
township. Samuel married Sarah
Weaver, who bore him the following children who grew
up: Isaac, who is a merchant in Chicago, Ill.:
Samuel and Henry, in Cass Co., Ind.: Simon
and John reside in California; Emily,
married J. Clayton, and Sarah, Daniel
Drift, both of Cass Co., Ind.; John W., of
this township. Samuel Shilling, the father
of the above, was a tailor by trade, which he followed
two years, removing to Lawrence Township in 1818, where
he purchased land, and remained on the same until his
death, in September, 1858; he was a member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church, and a Jackson Democrat.
His wife died in 1872. John W. lived at
home until 23, after which for several years he was
engaged in the saw mill and threshing business. In
1854, caught the gold fever and went to California,
where he lived until 1865; during this time was engaged
in mining and teaming. In July, the following
year, married Abigail Gratz, who was born in this
township. Her parents were Jacob and Sarah
(Kimmel) Gratz, both hailing from Pennsylvania, and
came West to this township in 1825, locating on Sec. 21,
where he had purchased land which he improved and spent
the remainder of his life, which wont out 1858; his
widow is yet living. They had seven children, six
daughters and one son. In 1866, Mr.
Shilling located on the farm he now owns. He
and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.
Politically, is Republican.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
1881 - Page 811 |
Tuscarawas Twp. -
DANIEL SHILLING, farmer: P. O.
Massillon; was born in this township on the farm where
he now lives, Feb. 4, 1828. the youngest son of Adam
Shilling and Mary Koan.
Adam was born in Franklin Co., Perm., Feb. 11, 1792.
His parents were John and Barbara (Oberlin)
Shilling. John Shilling's
father came from Germany and settled in Pennsylvania
when it was a wilderness; he had several brothers, some
of whom were captured and taken off by the Indians.
To John and Barbara Shilling were
born Adam, Jacob, Samuel, Peter,
John, "Peggy" and Catharine.
The father of the above died when Adam was a lad
in his teens. In 1816, he came Westward to Ohio
and settled in this township, and is yet living, having
seen his four-score and ten years (nearly). To him
were born eight children, seven living, viz.: John,
who resides in Canaan Tp., Wayne Co., Ohio; Joseph,
in De Kalb Co., Ind; Catharine, now deceased; she
married Peter Spangler, and by him had
seven children—Polly, resides in De Kalb Co.,
Ind., wife of George Houk; Barbara
resides in this township, wife of William
Kitzmiller; Solomon, in De Kalb Co., Ind.;
also Elizabeth, wife of David Frantz.
Adam, the father of the above, lives among his
children, alternating from Indiana to this State.
Daniel Shilling being the youngest, has
always resided on the homestead. In January, 1852,
he married Elizabeth, daughter of Daniel
and Sarah Fryboryer, who were from
Berks Co., Penn. Mr. Shilling has
four- children—Jacob, who married Miss
Overdurf, and resides in this township; Laura
resides near Canal Fulton, wife of Albert
Miller; William resides in De Kalb
Co., Ind., on his father's farm; Ettie, the
youngest, at home. The homestead farm consists of
200 acres. The Shilling family are good
Republicans.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
1881 - Page 812 |
Washington Twp. -
JOSEPH L. SHUNK, A.M., Professor of Latin and
Greek in Mt. Union College: was born in Wilmont, Stark
Co., Ohio, Sept. 14, 1844; he is the son of Joshua
and Christina (Putman) Shunk she a native of Ohio,
he of Pennsylvania; Mr. Shunk was a
cabinet-maker, and conducted his business in Wilmot for
many years; about 1849, the unwelcome messenger of death
called him from his wife and four helpless children,
viz., Elizabeth (now wife of Capt. D. Bash),
Joseph, Mary (now Mrs. Henry Reed) and
J. Putman. Our subject was the second of the
family, and, at the time of his father's death, about 5
years old; until 14 years of age, he resided with and
was cared for by his mother's father. In the
meantime, he had acquired a fair common-school
education. When he was 14 years of age, he
received of his grandfather a colt for that summer's
service, and for subsequent work he was paid a small
salary. In 1860 and 1861, he attended Greensburg
Seminary during the spring and summer terms, and applied
himself at teaching through the winter months in order
to secure means of support while struggling to obtain a
more thorough education. In June, 1863, he
enlisted in Co. A, 86th O. V. I., and served until the
10th of the following February, when he was discharged,
and, Jan. 19, 1865, re-enlisted in Co. C (of which
company he was Orderly Sergeant), 184th O. V. I., and
served until Sept. 20, 1854, when he received his final
discharge. On returning from the army, he resumed
teaching, and continued for several winters. In
1866, he purchased an interest in a dry goods store in
Wilmot, with Capt. D. Bash, under whose
supervision the store was conducted, and from which
partnership Mr. Shunk withdrew in 1880. He
entered Mt. Union College as a student in May, 1874, and
took a full classical course, and graduated in 1877; he
had resolved to enter the ministry at the close of his
collegiate course, and accordingly was licensed to
preach by the North Ohio Conference of the M. E. Church,
in 1877; at the same time he took charge of a class in
the college, and has since held the Professorship of
Latin and Greek languages in that institution, while his
relation to the church is unchanged, and for which he
frequently officiates as minister. Dec. 16, 1869,
he married Eretta Wolf, daughter of Dr. Samuel
Wolf, of Wilmot.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 -
Page 1009 |
Bethlehem Twp. -
ANTHONY SISTERHEN, merchant,
Navarre; was born May 5, 1838, in Mueustermayfeld,
Province of Rhine, Prussia; he is a son of Francis
and Magdalena (Wennen) Sisterhen, a brief sketch of
whom will be found in his brother Mathias'
biography. Anthony was educated partly in
Prussia, and partly in the United States. He
learned shoe-making with his uncle, Peter, in
Navarre, and after serving an apprenticeship of two
years, went to Cleveland, and from there to Columbus,
working at his trade in both places. In 1859, he
went to New Orleans, where he remained about a year, and
then removed to St. Louis where he remained until the
spring of 1861, and then worked in Springfield and
Bloomington, Ill., for a few months. The summer of
1861 found him in Chicago, working at his trade.
Here he enlisted under the first call of President
Lincoln or troops, but after spending some time at
Camp Yates, at Springfield, they were sent back to
Chicago and were never mustered into service. He
remained in Chicago until the summer of 1862, when he
removed to Bolivar, Tuscarawas Co., and at the end of
about a year located in Navarre, where he has since
resided. He here opened a store and at the present
writing has one of the best business rooms of any house
in the village, and a lucrative and increasing trade in
the boot and shoe business. In 1863, he was
married to Miss Sophia Zehringer, who was born in
Baden, Germany, in 1843. To their union were born
five children - Gustave A., Charles W., Clara M.,
Laura R. and Annie M. Mr. Sisterhen
has held the office of Township Trustee six years.
He is a Democrat in politics, and a member of the
Catholic Church; he started out in life with nothing,
but by industry and close application to business, has
acquired a first class business with valuable town
property.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page
996 |
Bethlehem Twp. -
MATHIAS SISTERHEN, Navarre; was
born in the town of Muenstermayfield, Providence of
Rhine, Prussia, Oct. 4, 1843; he is a son of Francis
and Magdalena (Wennen) Sisterhen, who were natives
of Prussia, and parents of five children, three of whom
died before the family came to the United States.
Mr. Sisterhen was a shoe-maker by trade, a
business he pursued both in this and the old country.
In 1854, he left his native country, with his family,
and came to the United States, locating in Navarre,
Ohio, where Mr. Sisterhen worked at his trade
until his death, which occurred Mar. 8, 1877; his wife
died Feb. 22, 1873. They were hard-working, sober
and intelligent people, and were regarded with esteem by
all who knew them. Mathias Sisterhen
received a good common-school education, and when 17
years old began working at shoe-making, a business he
has followed, to a greater or less extent, ever since.
In connection with his trade, Mr. Sisterhen has
represented various insurance companies. At the
present, he is specially identified with the Home
Insurance Company of Columbus, and the Springfield Fire
and Marine Insurance Company of Massachusetts. He
also represents other first-class life and fire
companies. He is a Democrat in politics, and a
member of St. Clements' Church of Navarre, and is
President of the Aid Society of the same church of which
he is a member; he was elected Councilman of the village
of Navarre, upon its incorporation, which he held until
1876, when he was elected Mayor, and has retained that
office to the present; he has also held the office of
Justice of the Peace, and in all his public offices he
has discharged the duties devolving upon him to the
entire satisfaction of his constituents. He was
united in marriage with Miss Catharine Zeimet,
June 26, 1866, and their union has been blessed with
five children - John F., Charles E. and
Florence T. living, and Frederick W. and
George A. deceased. Mrs. Sisterhen was
born in Belgium, Province of Luxemburg, Jan. 10, 1843.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page
996 |
Perry Twp. -
CAPT. A. H. SMITH, fanner; P. O.
Massillon; is a native of Lake Tp., Stark Co.; born May
19, 1837, and is the fourth of a family of eight
children born to George E. Smith and Sarah Christ;
he was born Apr. 18, 1799, in Adams Co., Penn., son of
George Smith, who was a native of Cumberland
County; his wife was a native of the Emerald Isle.
To George Smith, the grandsire of our
subject, were born Samuel, Benjamin,
George, Rachel and two others, whose names
cannot be recalled. Sarah was a daughter of
Christian Christ, a native of Delaware; he
married Susan Slusser, and by her had
three daughters — Polly, Sarah and
Susan. George Smith, Sr.,
came West, with his family, in 1812, and settled in
Plain Tp., Stark Co., where he entered lands and
remained on the same until his death. George E.,
his son, settled in Lake Township, upon unimproved land,
which he cleared up. To him were born Christian,
Andrew H., Benjamin, Joel, Alonzo and Philo;
Christian went West several years ago, and has
not been heard from; A. H., in Perry Township;
Benjamin, Canton Township; Joel and Alonzo,
in Summit County; Philo, a student.
Father Smith remained on the home farm, in
Plain, until 1859, when he moved to Canton Township,
remaining until his death, 1878. Andrew H.
remained at home, on the farm, and raised to
agricultural pursuits; in October, 1861, enlisted in
Company L, 6th Ohio Cavalry, as private, and was
promoted through all the successive grades, with they
exception of 2d Lieutenant, until he was commissioned
Captain; served until August, 1865, when he was mustered
out. Benjamin, also, served in the late
war. Upon his return home, he resumed farming; Dec. 27,
1866, he married Eliza Gans, born in Lake
Township, 1842, daughter of Benjamin and Susannah
(Williams) Gans, who had eleven children.
After Mr. Smith's marriage, he located in
Perry Township, having 190 acres of choice farming laud,
upon which he has erected choice farm buildings: has
live children, whose names are Logan H., Clark G.,
Mary and Blanche (twins) and Gracie.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 712 |
Plain Twp. -
BENJAMIN F. SMITH, farmer; P.
O. Canton; is a son of George E. Smith, who
was a native of the Keystone State, and came to Stark
Co. with his parents while young. He was
apprenticed to the tanner's trade, and after serving his
apprenticeship carried on the business for thirty-five
years in Lake tp., where he accumulated considerable
money, which he invested in land, and was at the time of
his death one of the largest land landholders in Stark
Co. He died in 1879 at the age of 80 years.
His widow (she who was Sarah Christ) is
still alive. They were the parents of eight
children, our subject being the fifth child, and was
born in Lake Tp., Stark Co., O., Aug. 5, 1838. His
youth was spent on the farm, where he lived until he was
23 years of age. He then bought the farm he now
lives on, consisting of 90 acres of well improved land,
and has worked diligently on the same until it now ranks
among the best in improvements, it being rented for
thirty-two years before he purchased it. In 1870
he married Harriet, daughter of John and
Nancy Smith, of Canton Tp., who bore him
three children, viz:—George E., Jessie May Bell,
and Stella I. Mr. Smith is a Republican,
and in 1862 and '63 fought for his country in Co. B,
11.5 Regiment, O. V. I.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 896 |
Marlborough Twp. -
DANIEL SMITH, farmer and
stock-raiser; P. O. Marlborough; was born in what is now
Blair Co., Pa., Nov. 15, 1823. He is a son of
Caleb and Susan (Hoover) Smith who were parents of
eleven children - Samuel, Henry, Elizabeth, Daniel,
Catharine, John, Mary, Jacob, Susan, Annie and
George W. Of these only five are now living,
Caleb Smith, the father, was a native of Germany,
and came with his parents to America when he was but a
small boy. They first settled in Maryland; but
afterwards moved into Pennsylvania, where his parents
both died. The farm which they purchased in Blair
Co., proved to be underlaid with valuable iron-ore
deposits, but by rascality their title to the property
was disputed, and owing to some flaw in the records they
were compelled to give up their right to the homestead.
While in Blair Co., Caleb married our subject's
mother, and in 1839, with property only to the value of
about $300, they emigrated to Ohio, leaving their former
home in the hands of the unprincipled parties who had
taken it from them. They located on Sec. 22,
Marlborough Tp., Stark Co., where they again started in
life. Mr. Smith was an industrious
man, and respected by his neighbors. He died in
the fall of 1858, and his widow in 1880. Daniel
Smith was raised as a farmer's boy and also
assisted his father in the shoe-shop. He received
a common-school education, and was married to Sarah
Seeley in August, 1853, by whom he had five
children—Salome A., Jemima E., Sarah M., Elmer E. and
Edwin L. Mrs. Smith was a kind
and loving wife, and an affectionate mother. She
died in the spring of 1877. Mr. Smith
was married the second time to Mrs. Maria
Royer, widow of Stephen Royer, and
daughter of Mr. Long. Mr.
Smith has lived the principal part of his life in
Stark Co., Ohio. He is an industrious,
intelligent, well-read citizen. He is a Democrat
in politics, and owns 360 acres of excellent farming
land in Marlborough Tp.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 930 |
Plain Twp. -
ELI SMITH, farmer; P. O. Middle
Branch; was born in Franklin Co., Pa., January, 1815,
being the fifth in a family of eleven children born to
Daniel and Mary Smith, who were natives of the
above named county. Daniel was a farmer,
and in 1825 he came to Ohio, settling on a farm in Stark
Co.; he cleared the farm and lived on the same until
1856, when he departed this life at the age of 82 years;
his wife died in 1851. At an advanced age, Eli,
the subject of this sketch, came to Plain Tp., when but
10 years old; he lived on the farm until he was 19, when
he apprenticed himself to the tanner's trade, which
trade he has worked at from 1833 up to the present time.
In 1855 he purchased 160 acres of the old homestead, and
has remained on the same up to the present time.
He now owns 260 acres of valuable land in Stark Co.
In 1840 he united in marriage with Sarah,
daughter of George Kreighbaum, of Stark Co.
From that marriage there have been eleven children,
eight of whom are living - Abraham, George, Daniel,
Lewis, Frank, Harvey, Catharine and Mary.
Mr. and Mrs. Smith are members of the Lutheran
Church. He is a Democrat, and has held many
offices of trust in the township.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 896 |
Sugar Creek Twp. -
FERNANDO B. SMITH, manufacturer;
Wilmot; is the proprietor and sole manufacturer of
"Smith's New Improved Portable Force Pump," a new and
novel invention, which is finding a ready and rapid
sale. The manufactory is located in Wilmot, and is
conducted by the above, who was born in this town July
19, 1854, son of Peter and Ann (Howard) Smith.
They were born in Canton Berne, Switzerland, Sept.
15, 1811, and Jan. 9, respectively; were united by
marriage Oct. 16, 1835, and emigrated to this country,
locating at once (July, 1848) in Wilmot, Stark Co., and
set up in business. He is a tinsmith, which trade
he learned in Switzerland, and has since conducted the
business in this town, keeping stoves and tinware
generally. The father of Peter was named
John, whose father was of the same name. Mrs.
Smith's father's name was Casper Howard.
Nine children have been born to Peter Smith,
viz.—John, Maria, Elizabeth, Christian, Lena,
Fernando B., Ettie, Peter, and
Adolph, who died when young. Peter Smith,
the father of F. B., was of a family of four
children—Peter, John, Anna and
Mary. Of the children of Peter Smith,
who have left the shelter of the parental roof, are
Ettie, wife of A. D. Wallace, of this
place; Lena, now Mrs. Paul Fry,
also of this town; Elizabeth, wife of Frederick
Obets, resides near Grand Rapids, Mich.; Maria
is the wife of George Goll, of Loudonville, Ohio;
John resides in Zanesville, and Christian
in Bakerville. Fernando learned the
tinner's trade of his father, but in 1817 he went to
Cincinnati, where he engaged in manufacturing his
improved pumps in a small way. He came to this
town the year following, and began their manufacture at
this place. The first year he manufactured he
turned out 2,500, in 1878 5,000, and has been doubling
the amount each year. In 1880 he made 20,000, and
next year will manufacture 50,000.
erSource: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 967 |
City of Alliance -
GEORGE G. SMITH, physician and
surgeon; Alliance; was born in Trumbull Co., Ohio, Jan.
31, 1837. His parents were Philander and Martha
(Freer) Smith, of New York, who removed to Ohio
about 1833, and settled in Trumbull Co. They
reared eleven children. Mr. Smith
was by occupation a mill-wright. After a
common-school education, the Doctor set out in life for
himself. He came to Alliance when a mere youth and
entered into the employ of Drs. Wilson
& Armstrong, in the capacity of drug-clerk. He
became interested in the study of medicine and while
clerking, spent his leisure hours in study, consequently
his employers became at the same time his preceptors.
He was in very limited circumstances, as he was
depending entirely on the resources of his own labor, to
furnish means of support and education; in consequence
of which the completion of the medical course was
somewhat retarded. He accepted a clerkship in a
drug store in Janesville, Wis., where he remained one
winter; thence to Cincinnati, where he held a similar
position, and while there attended a course of lectures
in the Ohio Medical College. In 1859 he removed to
Michigan, and began the practice of medicine in
partnership with Dr. James A. Leasia. He
enlisted in the late civil war in August, 1861, in Co.
K, 9th Mich. V. I. At the organization in of the
regiment, he was chosen sergeant and arose steadily to
distinction in the service. His regiment was
ordered to Kentucky, and as soon as they arrived he was
detailed as hospital steward at West Point, Ky., where
he remained about two months, when he was removed to
Elizabethtown and occupied the same position at the post
hospital, immediately after the battle of Pittsburgh
Landing, he was ordered to Nashville, and assigned to
duty in Hospital No. 5. While there he attended a
course of lectures at the medical department of the
University of Tennessee, and graduated in the winter of
1862-63. In April, 1863, he was appointed
assistant surgeon of his old regiment. In July of
1864 he was again detailed from his regiment, this time
as surgeon of the 19th U. S. I., throughout the Atlantic
campaign, and the following October, he received his
commission as surgeon of his old regiment, to which he
returned in December, 1806, to the mutual satisfaction
of himself and his old associates, as his congeniality
during his term as assistant surgeon, had made him a
favorite, and many warm friends. When mustered out
of the service in 1865, he returned to Ohio, opened an
office in Newtown Falls, Trumbull Co., and resumed the
practice of his profession, and remained three years.
He attended a course of lectures in the Cleveland
Medical College in the winter of 1867 and 1868, and
graduated in the spring of the latter year, receiving
the ad cundem degree. In October of the
same year he came to Alliance, where he has practiced
ever since, and enjoys an ever increasing patronage.
He married Kate, G. Colestock, daughter of
Daniel Colestock, of Columbiana Co. They had
two children, both deceased. He is a member of the
Stark County Medical Society, and a member of the
Masonic Fraternity. He was appointed U. S.
Examining Surgeon for this county.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 744 |
Perry Twp. -
J. B. SMITH, farmer; P. O.
Massillon; was born on the farm he now lives upon Feb.
15, 1835, second son of Benjamin and Mary (Coder)
Smith; was raised on the farm, and to farming
pursuits. May 3. 1856, he was united in marriage
to Julia Rempis, who was born Feb. 16,
1834, in Coshocton Co., Ohio, daughter of Lewis and
Louisa (Burke) Rempis, who were natives of Germany,
and were early settlers in this county. Subsequent
to his marriage, he moved to Fayette Co., Ill., where he
was engaged in farming pursuits for six years, returning
to this township in 1865, and has since been residing on
the homestead. Of five children born to him, four
are living —Lucy O., William J., Harvey B. and
Frankie J. He and wife are members of the M.
E. Church. The Smith family are
loyal Republicans.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 714 |
Perry Twp. -
JACOB SMITH, deceased; born in
December, 1795, in Guilford Tp., Franklin Co., Penn.;
his parents were Daniel and Eve (Heck) Smith, who
were blessed with a family of eleven children; those who
grew up were Elizabeth, Susan, Margaret,
Eve, Mary, Catharine, Jacob,
John, Daniel and Adam.
Jacob Smith was married, in 1829, to
Lydia Binkley, who was born in 1805, in
Lancaster Co., Penn., being the second of a family of
live children born to Peter Binkley and
Margaret Lee, who were natives of
Pennsylvania: the Binkley family are descended
from Germany. Jacob Smith and family came
West to Ohio in 1833, purchasing a farm in Perry
Township in 1834, said farm containing 126 acres, in the
southeast quarter of Sec. 33, which was settled by Mr.
Allman. Mr. Smith died Sept.
4. 1865; was a member of the German Reformed Church, and
a good citizen. Eleven children were born him;
five are living, viz., Margaret, Daniel,
Angeline, Jacob and Lewis, all
living in this township except Jacob, who resides
in Bethlehem Township; Daniel remains on the
homestead, having purchased the farm.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 713 |
Perry Twp. -
JOHN SMITH, farmer; P. O. Canton;
born in Lancaster Co., Perm., son of Jacob and
Elizabeth (Rhodes) Smith. Jacob Smith
was born in Cumberland Co., Penn., son of Balsar
Smith, a native of Germany, and emigrated to
Cumberland County shortly after the war of the
Revolution. He raised live sons and several
daughters; the sons were Balsar, William, Samuel,
Joseph and Jacob. Elizabeth was:
daughter of Frederick Rhodes; the children
born him were Elizabeth, John, George,
Samuel, Frederick, and two daughters, one
of whom married Mr. Duck, the other a Mr.
Trit. Our subject came West with his
parents about the year 1817, they locating in Canton
Township, where he purchased about 200 acres of land,
which he cleared up. The following are the
children born to him, all of whom came to maturity:
Polly, Anna, Sarah, John,
Samuel, Joseph and David. John
Smith is a bachelor, and owns over 300 acres of
land, and is a successful business man.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 714 |
Pike Twp. -
JOHN SMITH, farmer; P. O. Pierce;
born in Chester Co., Pa., Dec. 17, 1818; son of Jacob
and Elizabeth (Watson) Smith, who removed to Pike Tp.
in the spring of 1829, settling on 30 acres of land now
owned by Leonard Shroyer; after remaining some
twenty years, Jacob removed to Washington Tp.,
where he died in May, 1875; he was the father of five
children, one died aged 18, four are living as follows—Lawrence
B. and John of Pike Tp.; Elizabeth,
now Mrs. George Hudson, of Nebraska; Warren G.,
of Alliance. When the Smith family
first moved to Pike Tp., the facilities for acquiring an
education were very poor, but the subject of this sketch
wishing a more thorough knowledge of the different
branches of science than could be obtained near home,
walked to Canton each morning carrying his dinner and
returning in the evening; thus he acquired an education
which has been transmitted to very many of his
descendants; he early learned the trade of a shoemaker,
which occupation he followed many years. About the
year 1849 he was chosen Justice of the Peace, and served
one term, after six years was re-elected, and served for
two terms; he has also been Clerk and Assessor for
several terms, and is Township Treasurer at the present
time. He was married May 12, 1839, to Miss
Martha, daughter of Peter Hockensmith.
Mr. and Mrs. John Smith, are members of the
Methodist Church of Bolivar; they are the parents of
eleven living children, as follows—Jacob, of
Pike; Margaret, now Mrs. Jeremiah
Culler, of Canton Tp.; Mary Jane,
at home; Charity, now Mrs. James
Walz, of Pike; William H., of Dakota
Territory; Caroline, now Mrs. John
Lash, of Bolivar; Wesley, of Sparta;
Benjamin, Elmer, James and Ollie.
Jacob Smith, the eldest son was born in
Pike Tp., Apr. 5, 1840, where he was raised and
educated, afterward teaching school for three terms; he
learned the shoemaker's trade, which he followed until
1870, since which year he has been engaged as a
carpenter and contractor, putting up houses and barns.
Aug. 7, 1862, he enlisted for three years in the 107th
Ohio, and served until June 20, 1805, when the Rebellion
having been subdued, he was discharged. During
this period he served for one year with the army of the
Potomac; the balance of the time in South Carolina and
Florida. He was married Sept. 19, 1807, to Miss
Elizabeth Ann Shell, who was raised by
William Groves, Sr. He is the father
of five children — Flora Ellen, Jennie
Lillian, Margaret Pearl, Bertha
Mabel and Ethel Agnes. Mr.
and Mrs. Smith are connected with
the M. E. Church, of Bolivar. Wesley
Smith, son of Jacob, was born Feb. 11, 1853;
elected Justice of the Peace in the fall of 1879;
Married Apr. 11, 1880, to Miss Sadie,
daughter of Phillip and Sophia (Elsass)
Smith.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 863 |
Tuscarawas Twp. -
CAPT. JOHN M. SMITH, deceased; was
born in Pennsylvania in April, 1826; son of Sebastian
Smith, who was one of the early settlers of the
township, and owned a distillery in the town at an early
day. He married Eliza J. Hissem, who was
born Apr. 1, 1820, in Westmoreland Co., Penn. Our
subject was a farmer and school teacher, farming during
the winter months. Oct. 6, 1862, he enlisted in
Co. K, 110th O. V. I., and served until May 5, 1853,
when he received a wound at the battle of the Wilderness
that caused his death, which occurred in the hospital at
Washington May 27 of that year. For his bravery
and meritorious conduct he was promoted from the ranks
until he was commissioned as Captain of his company,
which position he held at the time of his death.
He was highly respected in the community as a man and
citizen. He was a Republican and a member of the
I. O. O. F. His wife yet survives him, and yet
bears his name. She and her son Charles
M. reside together at West Brookfield, in this
township. Charles M. was born May 26, 1857.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 813 |
Perry Twp. -
JOSEPH SMITH, farmer; P. O. Canton; was born in
Cumberland Co., Penn., Oct. 13, 1815, being the fifth
child born to his parents, Jacob and Elizabeth
(Rhodes) Smith, who were early pioneers in Stark
County, purchasing unimproved land at $4 per acre; he
was one of the stanch representatives of the Keystone
State, and, in common with others of his class, turned
his back upon his native State, and cast his lot in the
then wilds of Ohio, that he might secure to himself and
family cheap lands which he might convert into a home;
he died as he lived an honest and worthy citizen; he was
a member of the Lutheran Church and a Jackson Democrat;
his death occurred about the year 1864. Of the
family of the children born him, now living, are John
and Joseph, who reside in this township; Anna,
married Christian Niesz, in Canton;
Sarah, Mrs. Thomas Van Horn, of Canton; and
David, who resides on the homestead farm, in
Canton Township. For several years, Jacob
Smith, the father of the above, ran an oil-mill
where the Canton water-works are; his wife died about
1856. Joseph remained with his parents until
1836; he then farmed, renting land several years. Oct.
12, 1839, he married Nancy Burger, who was
born in Columbiana Co., Ohio, Jan. 4, 1816, being the
youngest child born to Peter Burger and
Elizabeth Wert, to whom were born nine
children. In the winter of 1840, Mr.
Smith located on the farm he now owns; had 400
acres, which he has sold off until he now has 150.
The children born him are Alonzo, Darwin,
Cyrus, Jacob L., Emma J., Senora
C. and Mary A. Emma married John
Sponsler; Senora, Mrs. John Freeman.
Mr. Smith is a member of the
Reformed Church.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 712 |
Canton Twp. -
LEVI SMITH, fanner; P. O. Canton;
was born in Canton Township Jan. 19, 1837. He is
the oldest of three children born to Samuel and
Catharine (Stump) Smith. His
grandfather came from Pennsylvania to this county with
his family at an early date; at that time Samuel
was quite young. He had been reared to farm life
and continued at that business all his life time.
In 1846, Samuel Smith and family settled
on the farm now owned by their son. Levi I.
on which there was no previous improvements; but by
industry and hard work,
the forest has yielded to the woodman's ax and instead
of the brake and bramble, are the broad, well-tilled
fields. The life of Samuel Smith
closed on the old homestead Aug. 12, 1869, in his 58th
year. His widow survives and resides with Levi
I. The other two, William F. and
Lewis S., are well-to-do farmers in this county.
The subject of these notes got a good education in the
public schools and remained with his parents until he
was married, which event occurred Nov. 30, 1863, to
Mary A. Foltz, daughter of Samuel and Catharine
Foltz, of Richville, but now residents of Michigan.
To Mr. and Mrs. Smith have been born eight
children, viz.: Frances E., Margaret E. Trillien,
Jesse J.. Samuel C., Ephraim, David and Rosella.
For a period of several years alter their marriage they
lived on rented farms ill this vicinity, but in 1872 he
bought the old homestead of 158 acres, which is well
improved. Mr. Smith is a man who has
never sought political position, rather ignoring the
offers of position, but attends quietly to the
improvement and care of his well earned home. He
and Mrs. Smith are members of the
Evangelical Lutheran Church. of Canton.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 653 |
Bethlehem Twp. -
LEVI S. SMITH, Navarre.
Among the honored pioneers of Stark Co., Ohio, who
assisted in felling the forests and preparing for the
generation to follow, the inestimable blessings they now
enjoy, none is more worthy of especial mention than
Daniel and Catharine (Miller) Smith, parents of the
subject of this sketch. Mr. Smith was a
native of Franklin Co., Penn., his birth occurring Nov.
5, 1800. By trade, he was a butcher and carpet
weaver, but his chief employment through life was
farming. In about 1827, he emigrated to Tuscarawas
Tp., Stark Co., Ohio, and the year following his
arrival, married her who afterward became his partner in
the joys and sorrows, privations and self-sacrifice that
followed for many years. To their marriage there
were born Harriet, Jacob, Levi, Lydia, John, Mary Ann
and Peter. Mrs. Miller was born Aug. 13,
1810, and is yet living in Stark Co., Ohio. Mr.
Miller was a poor boy when he came to the county; he
was a good scholar in both the English and German
languages, and a man well calculated to become one of
the leaders in an enterprise of any kind. He was a
Democrat in politics, a member of the German Reformed
Church, and a sober, honest and upright citizen; his
life was a pure and upright one, and but few men at the
time of their deaths left as many friends and as few
enemies. His death occurred Apr. 11, 1875.
Levi S. Smith was born in Tuscarawas Township,
Aug. 28, 1840; he has resided on the farm from youth to
manhood, going to schools in winters and assisting at
home in the summers. At the age of 14, he began
applying his mind to his studies, more especially with
the view of entering the school-room as teacher.
This advancement he acquired by the determination to
succeed, together with the encouragement of his parents
and teacher. When 21, he first began teaching, and
since then has taught a number of terms, in all cases
giving excellent satisfaction. He was married, to
Miss Mary E. Chapman Oct. 27, 1868, and by her
has two children - Marion Chapman, born Nov. 8,
1870, and Edith Charlotte, born Aug. 4, 1875.
Mrs. Smith was born in Bethlehem Township, Aug.
6, 1845. Mr. Smith owns a farm of 76 acres
of well-improved land, which is partly underlaid by a
four foot vein of the best Massillon coal, which they
are now engaged in working. In politics he
is Democratic, and he is an intelligent and well-posted
citizen.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page
997 |
City of Massallon -
NELSON J. SMITH, farmer; P. O.
Massillon; born in June, 1830, in Luzerne Co., Penn.,
the third of the family born to his parents, who were
Benjamin Smith and Mary Coder; he was born in
Pennsylvania in 1800; son of Phineas Smith,
a native of Maryland. To Benjamin Smith
and wife were born nine children. Mary was
a daughter of Henry Coder, who served in the war
of 1812. Benjamin Smith came to Stark
County, locating in Perry Township, in 1830, purchasing
160 acres of unimproved land, upon which he remained
until his death, which occurred in November, 1873; he
was for fifty years a member of the Methodist Church;
his father was a local preacher. Mrs.
Smith also was a faithful member of her husband's
church; she died April, 1844. Nelson J.
remained on the home farm until April, 1854, when he
married Matilda Wesener, who was born in
the city of Philadelphia Sept. 11, 1833, daughter of
Christian Wesener, who was born in
Westphalia, Germany, in 1776, the youngest of a family
of twelve children. The father of Mrs.
Smith was educated for a priest; his father was a
prominent man of that time; he had a son who served in
King William's army, and was said to be
seven feet in height. Christopher Wesener,
not liking the idea of being raised in priesthood, left,
and came to the Isle of Demerara, where he had one child
born, Vincent, the eldest child of his family.
The mother of Mrs. Smith was Charlotte
Buckins Smith, being the youngest child.
His second wife was Margaret Buckius.
Christopher Wesener was an excellent chemist;
after leaving the Isle of Demerara, he located in
Roseville, in the suburbs of Philadelphia, where he
followed his profession. Mr. Buckins,
the paternal grandfather of Mrs. Smith,
was a native of Germany, and a Mason; while on his
voyage to this country, the vessel was taken by pirates,
and he about to be killed, but making the mystic sign of
his order, his life was spared and was put off on an
island. Mrs. Smith came to Canton in
1840; one year later, came to this township, and has
since remained. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have two
children, Anna W. and Emma C. All of
the family are members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church. Mr. Smith has been a
constant resident of the township since his birth, and
lived adjoining to the homestead farm.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 696 |
Plain Twp. -
WILLIAM SMITH, farmer; P. O.
Cairo; was born in York Co., Pa., in 1801, and is one of
four children born to William and Christiana (Bucher)
Smith. The father was a native of Maryland,
and the mother of York Co., Pa. In 1818 he
(William, Sr.) came to Plain Tp., and settled on a
rented farm, where he remained eight years. Having
a good knowledge of surgery, he gave it his exclusive
attention up to the time of his death. The subject
of this sketch came to Ohio with his parents in 1818,
and lived at home until he was 21 years old. HE
then learned the carpenter's trade, and worked at the
same for twelve years after his apprenticeship was
served; he then bought a farm of 160 acres, where he now
resides, and has lived on the same ever since. In
1827 he married Mary Christ of Lake Tp.
From that marriage there were seven children, five of
whom are living, viz.: Susan, wife of P.
Hate; Alfred, of Stark Co.; Elizabeth, wife
of Jno. C. Shaffer, of Plain Tp.; Mary
wife of Albert Cluff, of Canton, and Allen
at home. Mrs. Smith died at the age of 70
years. She was an estimable lady, and much missed
by her many friends. Mr. Smith is one of
the oldest and most respected citizens of Plain Tp.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 896 |
Bethlehem Twp. -
JOSEPH SNIVELY. This
gentleman was born in Perry Township, this county, Jan.
18, 1828; he is the son of Joseph and Catharine
(Sherman) Snively. The father was a native of
Franklin Co., Penn., and the mother of Switzerland; she
came when a child to this country, with her parents, who
settled in the Keystone State, where she was raised, and
married to Mr. Snively. In 1812, they came
to Stark Co., Ohio, and settled in Perry Township, upon
the farm now owned by John Snively, Esq., in that
township. Ten children were born to them, nine of
whom reached their majority. John Sherman,
father to Mrs. Snively, had come to this county
the year before Mr. Snively, and in the year 1812
sold his improvements to Mr. Snively, and then
purchased a place in Bethlehem Township, where he ever
afterward resided. Mr. Snively always
followed farming, a business he was very successful at;
he and wife were progressive, industrious people, and
enjoyed the esteem of all who knew them; they underwent
all the hardships and privations incident to pioneer
life, and materially aided in the development of the
county, morally, intellectually and otherwise.
Mr. Snively died in 1839, and his widow in 1864.
Our subject received a common-school education, and when
15 years of age began working at the shoe-maker's trade;
when 19, he went to Pennsylvania, where he remained some
three years, working at his trade; he then returned to
this county, and on the 1st of March, 1851, was united
in marriage with Miss Anna Gerber. This
lady was born in Canton Township, this county, May 18,
1830. The fruits of this union were six children,
five of whom are yet living, viz., Susanna, Jacob H.,
Abraham, Harriet and William F. Mrs.
Snively departed this life Mar. 22, 1879; she had
been a faithful wife, loving mother, and with patience
and fortitude shared her husband's adversities, and
rejoiced with him in his prosperity, to which she, by
her kind co-operation and interest, to the fullest
extent, contributed. On the 12th of December,
1880, Mr. Snively began life as a poor boy, and
has made what he now has by hard labor, combined with
honesty and close attention to business; he is a
Democrat politically, but liberal in his views, voting
for men and measures, and not for party; he owns 300
acres of well-improved land; he is one of the most
successful and practical farmers in the county; the
country would be much better off had it more such men as
him.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page
997 |
Nimishillen Twp. -
JONAS SPANGLER, retired;
Louisville, the subject of this notice was born in Adams
Co., Penn., Sept. 11, 1810. His parents, Jonas
and Susanna (Rosenmiller) Spangler were parents of
six children, whose names are—Christina,
Sophia, Barbara, Jonas, David
and one that died in infancy without being named.
He is a grandson of Rudolph Spangler, who
came from Germany to the United States, and settled in
Pennsylvania. Our subject came with his parents to
Stark Co., Ohio in 1832, locating in Osnaburg Tp., where
they lived two years on a rented farm. At the
conclusion of that time, they moved to the farm now
owned by Jonas Spangler, Jr., it being at that
early time almost covered with timber. Mr.
Spangler was a thrifty, hard-working, sober man.
When he came to the county, he was in straitened
circumstances, but at the time of his death left a good
home. He was a Democrat in politics, and a member
of the Lutheran Church. His death occurred in
1835, and Mrs. Spangler's in 1846.
The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm, and
farming has always been his vocation. In youth his
education was very limited, as his father was very poor,
and unable to spare the money to give him the education
he craved. Nothing daunted however, he would work
for the neighbors, splitting rails, and with the
proceeds go to school. Since arriving at years of
discretion, he has, by self-instruction, acquired a good
practical education, and is a teacher of several terms'
experience. In 1869, he was united in marriage
with Anna Ringer, and since his arrival in
Nimishillen Tp., has always made that his place of
residence. He now owns a tract of 120 acres of
nicely improved land, on which he and his estimable lady
live a quiet, retired life. Truly labor has its
own reward."
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey,
1881 - Page 913 |
Plain Twp. -
WILLIAM SPANGLER, farmer; P. O.
Canton; is the second in a family of ten children born
to Joseph and Elizabeth (Koon) Spangler, who were
natives of Adams Co., Pa., where Joseph was
engaged in the milling business. In 1814 he came
to Stark Co., settling in Plain Tp. He went to
work in the old grist-mill that stood where the Plain
Centre mill now is; here he remained about three yeas,
then went to Summit Co., and took charge of a mill for
five years. In 1822 he returned to Plain Tp., and
purchased 120 acres of land where William now
lives; he lived on the farm until he was removed by
death. Our subject was born in Plain Tp., Stark
Co., July 9, 1815. His childhood was spent on the
farm where he remained until his father died, when he
took charge of the farm and lived with his widowed
mother until he was 21. He then rented the farm,
and was a renter for three years; he then bought 75
acres of it and has lived on the same ever since.
In 1835 he married Elizabeth Lind, a native of
Stark Co., who bore him ten children; those living are -
Joseph, John, Hiram, Charles, George, Murray,
Elizabeth, Harriet, Emma. Mr. and Mrs. Spangler
are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 895 |
|
City of Canton -
JACOB SPIDEL, dealer in leather, hides, wool, etc.,
Canton; was born in Cumberland Co.,
Penn., Oct. 19, 1830, and is a son of
Christian and Eliza (Smith) Spidel,
natives of Pennsylvania. In 1836, they came to
Ohio and settled in Green Tp., then a part of Stark, but now in Summit
Co., on a farm that was improved to the extent of a log house and a few acres of
cleared land. In a short time after
locating on this place, the father died, the mother remaining there until June
19, 1861, when she died. They had
six children, five of whom are still living –
Eliza, now
Mrs. Boden, of Wyandot Co.;
Mary A., lives with her; Malinda, now
Mrs. Breckenridge, lives in Summit Co.; Jacob (subject), in Canton; and Christian F., in Summit Co.
Jacob was raised on the farm until
17, receiving his education at the district schools; he then apprenticed himself
to the tanner’s trade; after serving two years he worked as a journeyman until
1858, when he went into business for himself, buying a tannery in Wayne Co.,
Ohio, where he remained in business until 1864; he then sold out, and located
three miles north of Canton, and moved into the city the following year, where
he has been engaged in his present business ever since. He was married, in February, 1858, to
Miss Elizabeth Hoover, a native of
Stark Co.; she died July 20, 1873, and June 8, 1875, he married
Miss Elizabeth Bulger, a native of
Pennsylvania; they had two children, one of whom is living –
Herbert Spencer Spidel. Mr. Spidel is a Republican in
politics.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 636
|
Canton Twp.
-
ABRAHAM SPONSELLER, farmer; P. O.
Canton; is the third in a family of eight children born to
John and Catharine (Herpster) Sponseller. John
was a native of Adams Co., Penn., and came to Columbiana
Co., Ohio, with his parents, in 1804 or 1805. He lived
with his parents until he became of age; he then returned to
his native place, and worked for his uncle two years.
In 1816, he came to Stark Co., settling on a farm in Canton
Tp. He married the above-named lady, who was a native
of Maryland, but at the time of their marriage lived in
Washington Tp., this county. He was engaged in farming
up to the time of his death, which occurred in 1874, at the
age of 84 years. He was interested in the mercantile
business for some years. His widow still survives him,
and is living with her son David. Abraham,
the subject of this sketch, was born in Stark Co., Ohio,
Oct. 8, 1820; the early years of his life were passed on the
farm; h attended the common schools of his neighborhood, and
obtained a liberal education; he was for some time engaged
in school-teaching. In 1847, he purchased 50 acres of
land in Canton Tp., and there lived until 1864, when he
purchased 260 acres; he settled on the 160-acre farm, and
has lived there since. He was for several years
engaged in threshing. In 1848, he was united in
marriage to Elizabeth, daughter of Rudolph Stoner.
From that marriage there have been eight children, all of
whom are living. Mr. Sponseller has
always been identified with the Democratic party.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline
sketch of Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 653 |
|
FREDERICK SPONSELLER - See Seneca Co., OH |
Canton Twp. -
HENRY SPONSELLER, farmer; P. O.
Canton; is a son of John and Catharine Sponseller,
whose sketch appears in that of Abraham Sponseller.
Henry was born in Canton Twp., Stark Co., July
2, 1835; the early years of his life were passed on the old
homestead; he attended the common schools of his
neighborhood, and received a liberal education. He
worked at home until he was 24 years old; he then purchased
70 acres of an old homestead farm, upon which he settled,
and has lived there ever since; some years after he made
another purchase, and now owns 162 acres of valuable land.
He engaged in stock-raising, buying and selling, and has
been very successful in the undertaking. In 1858, he
married Miss Rebecca, daughter of Emanuel and
Elvina Hackman, who were natives of Pennsylvania.
From that marriage there have been seven children, viz.:
Horace, Mumice, John, Charles, Harry, Frank and Mary
L. Mr. and Mrs. Sponseller are members of the
German Reformed Church. He has always been identified
with the Republican party.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline
sketch of Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 654 |
Jackson Twp. -
HENRY SPRANKEL, farmer; P. O.
Massillon; was born in Stark Co., Dec. 9, 1817, and is the
son of Michael and Catharine Sprankel who were
natives of York Co., Penn., and were of German descent.
In 1815 they removed to Stark Co., and settled on Sec. 19,
where they lived till their death. Mr. Sprankel
has been a resident of the county all his life. In
1843 he married Susannah Howenstine, daughter of
David and Magdelena (Cook) Howenstine. The
children born to Mr. Sprankel were - Franklin
and John, deceased; Mary, wife of J. H.
Ebie, deceased; Henry H., and Harriet,
deceased; and Ellen, wife of H. S. Foltz.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 - Page 981 |
Osnaburg Twp. -
JOHN H. SPRANKLE, dealer in short horn
cattle; Paris, O.; was born, Sept. 7, 1829, in Canton Twp.,
Stark Co. He is connected with one of the early
families that braved the hardships of early border life, his
parents Jacob and Margaret, (Drushal) Sprankle, of
Pennsylvania, being numbered with the pioneers; when he
became of age he engaged himself as an apprentice at Canton,
O., in the woolen mills, and acquired a knowledge of every
department of that business. In his twenty-sixth year he
purchased 110 acres of the present farm. In a
comparatively few years his energy called for more
territory, so that in 1863, he was the purchaser of 100 more
acres, and has been adding on every side since then, his
last purchase being 80 acres in 1876. Though yet in
the prime of life he is the possessor of 300 acres of
excellent farming and grazing land. His enterprise led
him, notwithstanding strong prejudice and ridicule against
him, to go to Canada in 1875, and buy a herd of pedigreed
short horn Durham cattle; he has practically demonstrated to
himself and neighbors the difference between feeding and
housing the "pennyroyal" stock and the sleek "marble" backed
and "well flanked" Durham. In the care of his stock
and sale cattle, he takes great care and pride, keeping them
in a good breeding condition. The success of this
venture has encouraged him to make other purchases in the
near future from abroad. Mr. Sprankle was
united in marriage to Miss Anna Fry, Stark Co.
Six children constitute the family - the eldest is Jacob,
engaged in the dairy business, in Pennsylvania; Alfred E.,
is running a portable saw-mill in this county; Henry S.,
on the farm; Florence T., Anna, John G. are all
minors. In politics he is a pillar in the Republican
party of his corner of the township.
Source: History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 -
Page 847 |
Washington Twp. -
HENRY
STALL, undertaker and carpenter, Homeworth,
Columbiana Co., born Dec. 13, 1824, in Adams Co., Penn., son
of Samuel and Jane (Hurst) Stall; Samuel was also a
native of Adams Count; his wife was born in Ireland; they
removed with their family to Stark County in 1839, settling
in Washington Township, on the farm now owned by Samuel
Harris. Samuel Stall was a tailor by trade, and
worked at this occupation until he died, March 2, 1871, aged
68 years; he was the father of six children, viz., Henry
and George, of Washington Township; Ann
Eliza, formerly Mrs. John Burton, but now
deceased; William A., of Alliance; Mary Ann,
now Mrs. Zedick Hoiles, of Alliance; Sallie J.,
now Mrs. Jesse Ruff, of Washington. Henry
Stall, the subject of this sketch, worked as a farm hand
until after he was 21, then learned the carpenter's trade
under Kirk McLean, which occupation Mr. Stall
has followed for thirty-three years, working under other
carpenters and frequently as a contractor, building houses
and barns; he erected the schoolhouses at Strasburg and in
District No. 9. Some nine years since, he commenced
the business of undertaking which he has followed ever
since, having at the present time a patronage extending
throughout Stark and Columbiana Counties; he has at the
present time two hearses, one of which cost $800, and,
although located six miles from Alliance, keeps at his
establishment a large assortment of coffins and caskets; he
enjoys the confidence of the public, as his increasing
patronage will demonstrate; has been chosen School Director
two terms. Master of the Grange and Director of the
Washington and Paris Township Insurance Company. He
was raised a Free Will Baptist; has always voted the
Republican ticket. He was married, in 1848, to Miss
Serena Burns, daughter of Hugh Burns of
Columbiana Count; his only son. Dennis Stall,
is a valuable assistant to his father; Dennis was
married. in 1876, to Miss Amanda Ickes, and they have
one child, Ross. Mr. Stall had owned and
occupied his present home in 10 acres ever since he was
married in 1848.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 -
Page 1010 |
Washington Twp. -
JORDAN L. STANLEY, farmer and
school-teacher; P. O. Freeburg. Near the beginning of
the nineteenth century. Joshua Stanley,
grandfather of the subject of this sketch, left his home in
Fairfax Co., Va., and removed with his wife and family to
Columbiana County, settling in Butler Township, where his
son, John H., was born; the latter married Sarah
Woolman, daughter of Abner Woolman, who came to
Ohio from New Jersey about 1808 and settled in Smith Tp.,
then Columbiana Co., but now of Mahoning on land he had
entered several years previous. John H. had
seven children: his son Joshua W. was Superintendent
of the Census in 1880 for the Eighth Ohio District.
Jordan L. another son, and subject of this sketch, was
born Sept. 25, 1836, in Butler Tp., Columbiana Co.; he was
raised on his father's farm, receiving an education in the
schools of Butler Township, and also in Salem, under
Prof. Holbrook. During the years 1856 and 1857, he
read law under Asa Battin, Esq., of Salem.
After being admitted to practice, he located at Canfield,
and, while a resident of that place, served as one of the
County School Examiners of Mahoning County for four years.
He was married, May 6, 1858, to Nancy Meese, daughter
of Daniel Meese, one of the early settlers of
Washington Township; in 1864, they settled south of Freeburg
on a small farm of 31 acres, living there until the fall of
1875, when they removed to his present farm, purchasing 102
acres from Jacob Kern; he has since sold part of
this, and now owns 50 acres. In November, 1866, he was
elected Justice of the Peace for Washington Township, and
afterward re-elected for three successive terms, serving
altogether twelve years; he has also been chosen Township
assessor for several terms, and took the census of
Washington Township during the summer of 1880. During
the past twenty years, he has taught school each winter, and
is frequently chosen as a juryman on important cases which
come up for trial at Canton; he was Foreman of the jury
which was impaneled where the case of the State of Ohio vs.
Joseph Kline. His first wife died Apr.
27, 1876, leaving one child, Miss Ida M. Stanley; he
was married a second time to Miss Nannie Powell,
daughter of Levi Powell.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio -
Publ.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 -
Page 1010 |
|
Canton Twp. -
D. E. STAUFFER, farmer; P.
O. Canton; is fourth in a family of thirteen children born
to Christian and
Christina Stauffer, who were native of Lebanon Co.,
Penn., where
Christian was engaged in farming.
He had learned the trade of a hatter and worked at
the same for fifteen years.
In 1833, he came to Stark Co., Settling in Lawrence
Twp., on a farm of 150 acres, which he cleared, and upon
which he lived until 1856, when he removed to Nimishillen
Twp.; he remained a resident of that township up to the time
of his death; he died in 1862 at the age of 64 years; his
wife died in 1875, at the age of 75 years.
D. E., the
subject of this sketch, was born in Lebanon Co., Penn., Feb. 16, 1829, and came to Stark Co.
with his parents in 1833, he being then but 4 years old.
His childhood was passed on his father’s farm in
Lawrence Twp.; at the age of 21, he rented a farm in Lake Twp.,
where he remained five and a half years; he then removed to
Nimishillen Twp., where he purchased a farm, and there lived
fifteen and one-half years; he sold his farm and removed to
Clark Co., Ill., where he bought a farm and there lived one
year, when he returned to Canton Twp., and purchased a farm
of 115 acres known as the
Henry Shock Farm,
and has lived there since.
In 1850, he married
Miss Elizabeth,
daughter of John and
Annie Ensminger, of Lebanon Co.,
Penn.
From that marriage there have been ten children –
Lydia
A., Daniel H., Mary C., Sarah E., David F., J. J., Isaac W.,
Harvey A., Isa M. and
Charles B. Mr. and Mrs.
Stauffer are members of the
River
Brethren
Church.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 -
Page 654
|
Lawrence Twp. -
GEORGE STOVER, farmer; P. O. Canal
Fulton; is a native of the farm upon which he now lives in
Lawrence Township. He was born in 1838, son of
Samuel and Margaret Stover, and with t he exception of a
short residence in Lake Township, whither his parents
removed, he has been a resident of Lawrence Township and
identified with its progress and improvement all his life;
assisting as well as he could for the advancement of culture
and civilization. He was engaged as a teacher in his
earlier days - teaching winter sessions - this he followed
for several years. His principal occupation ahs
been that of a husbandman, also making a specialty in
breeding sheep and cattle. Mr. Stover has
served as Trustee for the Children's Home, at Fairmount,
Washington Township, for the past six years, and is still
administering the duties of that position. He is a
Mason, and one of the most liberal-minded and prominent
citizens of the county. He was married in January,
1869, to Miss Louis J. Beardsley, of Akron.
They have two children living - George P. and
Harry W., and one deceased, William B. who
died aged eight months. Mr. Stover is the
possessor of the old homestead farm, consisting of 81 acres
of valuable land.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 -
Page 789 |
Lawrence Twp. -
SAMUEL STOVER,
retired farmer; P. O. Canal Fulton; is one of the pioneer
settlers of Stark County; he was born in Aaronsburg, Center
Co., Penn., Aug. 16, 1813; he came to Lawrence Township May
26, 1823, where he remained, upon the farm on which he now
resides until the fall of 1831, when he went to Canton and
learned the gunsmith's trade with Jacob Danner, with
whom he remained three years; returning to the farm in
Lawrence Township, he has since resided there. He was
united in marriage, Feb. 12, 1835, to Margaret Kreighbaum;
they have two children - William and George,
both prominent citizens and farmers of Lawrence Township.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 -
Page 791 |
Lawrence Twp. -
WILLIAM STOVER, farmer; P. O. Canal
Fulton; is a son of Samuel and Margaret (Kreichbaum)
Stover, natives of Pennsylvania and pioneers of Summit
County; a more extended sketch of whom appears elsewhere.
William is a native of Lawrence Township, and has
remained a citizen thereof all his life with the exception
of two years. He has made farming and the breeding of
blooded horses his profession, and has achieved practical
success from his labors. In 1860, he became the owner
of the farm upon which he now resides, moving upon it in
1861. He was the proprietor of the American House in
Canal Fulton for two years, after which he returned to his
farm, where we find him at the present writing. He has
100 acres of improved land, conveniently located.
Mr. Stover has been a progressive citizen; has served
the township as Trustee four terms, as Assessor two years,
and as Infirmary Director for six years. He was
married, in 1861, to Miss Maggie M. Buchtel, of
Jackson Township. They have two children - Clara A.
and Otis G. Mr. Stover is a member of the Masonic
Order at Canal Fulton.
Source:
History of Stark County: with an outline sketch of
Ohio - Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, 1881 -
Page 789 |
NOTES:
|
