Bios of Picturesque Huron
Biographical Index to
Picturesque Huron
The book "Picturesque Huron" has 74 biographies with
approximately 250 different people mentioned within them. This is an every-name
index to those biographies transcribed by Scott Gens. Click on a name below
and you will be taken to the biography containing a reference to that person.
When in a biography click on the "back to top" link to return here
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Adams, Bildad |
Adams, Nancy |
Baker, Adiline |
Baker, James Whipple |
Baker, Timothy |
Baker, Timothy |
Baker, M.A. |
Baker, Mary Jane (Carl) |
Bancroft, Lucy |
Christian Wickham |
Barbour, Polly |
Bates, _______ |
Beattie, A.M |
Bedford, Miss ______ |
Benedict, Platt |
Billings, Josh |
Bloomer, Emma Jane |
Bloomer, Emma Jane |
Bloomer, Lois |
Bloomer, Reuben |
Boalt, Mr. ______ |
Boalt, Mrs. F.H. |
Bogardus, Evert |
Bostwick, Rosaltha G. |
Booth, Catherine E. (Hester) |
Booth, Rev. E.J.V. |
Brady, DJ |
Brady, George F. (Peter?) |
Brainard, A.C. |
Breckenridge, Almira (Morton) |
Breckenridge, Mrs. Esther Ann |
Breckenridge, Mrs. Esther Ann |
Breckenridge, Edward P. |
Breckenridge, George W. |
Breckenridge, Henry C. |
Breckenridge, James |
Breckenridge, Myron |
Breckenridge, W.C. |
Brown, Albert |
Brown, Albert |
Brown, Emma Jane (Bloomer) |
Brown, Emma Jane (Bloomer) |
Brown, Nancy |
Boughton, Maryetta |
Carl, Mary Jane |
Case, Sophia |
Case, Sophia |
Chevraux, Charles V. |
Cooke, Eleutheros |
Cooke, Jay |
Corwin, Ira |
Corwin, Mrs. M.A. (Baker) |
Corwin, Thomas |
Coutant, Gideon B. |
Coutant, Phoebe |
Edwards, ________ |
Fanning, Benjamin G. |
Fanning, Sabra (Smith) |
Farr, Elizabeth (Higgins) |
Farr, Elizabeth (Higgins) |
Farr, James M. |
Fay, Lucy |
Fitzgerald, Melvina |
Gager, Edwin |
Gager, Permelia (Rose) |
Gallup, Caleb H. |
Gardiner, Charlotte E. |
Gardiner, Frances Mae (Joslin) |
Leonard, Rev. George E. |
Leonard, Rev. George E. |
Leonard, Mrs. George E. (nee Sherman) |
Leonard, Lucy |
Leonard, Jacob Drake |
Leonard, Nancy (Brown) |
Manahan, George W. |
Martin, Edgar |
Martin, Gilbert |
Martin, Hannah (Washburn) |
McKelvey, John |
McKelvey, Martha |
McKelvey, Matthew |
McKelvey, Matthew Jr. |
McKelvey, Nancy (Adams) |
McKelvey, William |
McOmber, Ellen |
Mesnard, Eri |
Morton, Almira |
Myers, ________ |
Newman, Charles E. |
Newman, Mary (Fay) |
Newman, Samuel F. |
Painter, Carrie E. (Pitezel) |
Painter, W.H. |
Palmer, Elizabeth |
Palmer, Lenius |
Parker, CS |
Parker, Ora |
Parker, Rosaltha (Bostwick) |
Parker, W.L. |
Perrin, William |
Peters, Eli |
Peters, Mary Jane (Weed) |
Pitezel, Carrie E. |
Pitezel, Esther Ann (Gibbs) |
Pitezel, Esther Ann (Gibbs) |
Pitezel, Henry |
Pitezel, John H. |
Pitezel, Mary P. |
Powers, R.C. |
Pray, Ethan Allen |
Pray, Jacob |
Preston, Lucy B. |
Preston, Samuel |
Read, Franklin D. |
Read, Hanson |
Read, Melvina (Fitzgerald) |
Reed, David H. |
Roberts, Harriet (Sherman) |
Roberts, Warren D. |
Rose, Permelia |
Rowe, ________ |
Sawyer, Gen. Franklin |
Scovell, E.C. |
Scovell, Martha (McKelvey) |
Severance, Warren |
Shannon, Gov. |
Shaw, Henry |
Shaw, Henry W. |
Shaw, ______ (Bedford) |
Shaw, Robert |
Sheldon, Dr. A. |
Sheldon, Albert |
Sheldon, Caroline E. |
Sheldon, Elizabeth |
Sheldon, H.G. |
Sheldon, Joanna |
Sheldon, Mary |
Sheldon, Mary (Griffin) |
Sheldon, R.N. |
Sheldon, Rufus (Jr.) |
Sheldon, Rufus (Sr.) |
Sheldon, Rufus (Sr.) |
Sheldon, Rufus (Sr.) |
Sherman, John G. |
Sherman, Lemuel |
Sherman, Lucy S. |
Sherman, Polly (Jones) |
Sherman, Samuel |
Sherman, Samuel |
Sherman, |
Simmons, Abby |
Smith, Hiram |
Smith, Sabra |
Smith, Sherman |
Southgate, Judge ______ |
Starling, Maria |
Stentz, Henry P. |
Stewart, Abby (Simmons) Stewart |
Stewart, Charles H. |
Stewart, Gideon T. |
Stewart, Gideon T. |
Stewart, G.T. |
Stewart, Harlon L. |
Stewart, Ora (Parker) |
Stickney, Betsey |
Stickney, Charles |
Stickney, Charles B. |
Stotts, Abram D. |
Stotts, Maryetta (Boughton) |
Stough, Mary |
Stowe, Myra B. |
Strong, Laura |
Strong, Timothy R. |
Strong, William |
Swayne, Attorney _______ |
Tennant, S.W. |
Tifft, Dr. John |
Thomas, Adiline (Baker) |
Thomas, Dora E. |
Thomas, Ellen (McOmber) |
Thomas, George |
Thomas, George T. |
Thomas Myra B. (Stowe) |
Thomas, Orr Uri |
Thomas, Uri Baker |
Townsend, Charlotte |
Townsend, Elizabeth (Palmer) |
Townsend, Ellen L. (Ward) |
Townsend, Hiram |
Townsend, Hosea |
Townsend, Ira S. |
Townsend, John T. |
Townsend, Mary A. (Ward) |
Townsend, Sophia (Case) |
Townsend, Sophia (Case) |
Ward, Ellen L. |
Ward, Mary A. |
Washburn, Hannah |
Washburn, Philena |
Weed, Mary Jane |
Welsh, Nicolas D. |
Wickham, C.P. |
Wickham, Frederick |
Wickham, Frederick |
Wickham, Frederick |
Wickham, Frederick |
Wickham, Frederick Christian |
Wickham, Lucy (Bancroft) |
Wickham, Lucy B. (Preston) |
Wildman, Ellen Elizabeth (Howe) |
Wildman, Frederick A. |
Wildman, F.E. |
Wildman, Samuel A. |
Williams, Mary Isabelle (Goodnow) |
Williams, Theodore |
Williamson, James |
Williamson, John A. |
Williamson, Phebe |
Wooster, Samuel T. |
Worcester, Mr. |
Myron Breckenridge Back to the top
Myron Breckenridge was born December 9, 1795 at Charlotte, Chittenden County,
Vt. He moved to Ohio in the fall of 1836, coming by wagon, bringing with
him his family, and settled in Peru, Huron county, where he lived for twenty
years. Afterwards, he lived on a farm near Plymouth, Richland County, for
three years. For six years he was in business with his son Edward P. at
Richmond, Ind. Then he moved to Norwalk where he remained until he died,
February 6 1887 at the advanced age of 91 years. He was an honest, consistent
christian man, and an active member of the Methodist Episcopal church for
more than 70 years, and commanded the respect of every community in which
he lived.
Mrs Almira M. Breckenridge Back to
the top
Mrs. Almira Morton Breckenridge, wife of Myron Breckenridge, was born at
Middlebury, Vermont, January 12, 1808, and married June 7, 1831. She shared
with her husband the privations and hardships of pioneer life, and is the
mother of eight children, all living. She is now living with Mr. And Mrs.
Sampson Gray, at Norwalk, Mrs. Gray being her youngest daughter. She is
in the enjoyment of good health and at the advanced age, 87, is a charming
old lady, beloved by all who know her.
Hon Henry C Breckenridge Back to
the top
Henry Clay Breckenridge was born April 14, 1832, at Charlotte, Vt., a son
of Myron and Almira Breckenridge. He came with his family to Ohio at the
age of four years. He carried on the hardware business at Plymouth for
some time, and was also a member of H.C. and W.C. Breckenridge, of Norwalk.
He was elected by the republicans as representative for Huron County, in
the general assembly, for the term of 1872-74. His present home is in Toldeo,
O., where he is engaged in a large manufactory.
Abram D. Jenney Back to the top
Abram . Jenney was born at Acushnet, near Fairhaven, Mass., May 19 1813,
the son of John and Catharine Jenney. At an early age, he came with the
family to Scipio, in the western part of New York, and from there to Greenwich
township, Huron county, in 1824. He is the youngest of ten children, four
of whom were boys. His brothers were Benjamin, Obediah and Mordecai, all
of whom becmae well known in the vicinity where they resided. Obediah was
for a long time a resident of Norwalk. Abram and Benjamin lived in Greenwich,
where they have been leading members of the Friends church, and influential
and highly respected citizens. In 1841 Abram married Sally A., daughter
of Henry Griffin, of Fitchville township. Her death occurred in 1895.
Hon H.L. Stewart Back to the top
Harlon L. Stewart was born in Norwalk, O. Dec. 12 1861, the son of Hon.
G.T. Stewart. Harlon received his early education in the public schools
of the city, and later at the Ohio State University. In 1882, he entered
the newspaper business, first publishing the Daily News, and afterwards,
the Experiment-News. He waas nominated, by the democrats, for their candidate
for Congress in 1890, but as the district was republican, he was defeated.
In 1891, he was elected as State Senator, and was the youngest member of
the body. He was nominated for reelection in 1893, but was defeated. He
devotes his time to his publishing business. He married Ora, daughter of
W.L. and Rosaltha G. (Bostwick) Parker, of Norwalk.
Rufus Sheldon Back to the top
Rufus Sheldon was born in Oneida county, N.Y., February 8, 1809. He was
the son of Rufus and Joanna Sheldon. In 1824, the family came to Greenwich
township and settled upon a farm near the "Center". When Rufus grew up
he purchased the farm, and made his home upon it. In 1836 he married Mary
Griffin, daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Griffin, who had moved to Fitchville
township, from Greene county, New York, in 1833. Rufus and Mary had six
children, among whom are Albert, present auditor of Huron county, ; Elizabeth,
wife of J.F. Laning,; H.G., a leading attorney of Delaware, Ohio; and R.N.,
a physician residing at Kelley's Island, O. Rufus Sheldon was justice of
peace for many years, and for twelve years, before a railroad was built
through Greenwich, kept at his house, the post office, on the stage line
from Wooster to Norwalk. He resided upon the old homestead until 1872,
when he moved to New London, and from there to Fitchville in 1873. His
death occurred January 1, 1875. He was a leading citizen, a christian gentleman,
and his demise was mourned by a large circle of friends and relatives.
Hon. David H. Reed Back to the top
David H. Reed, M.D., was born in Greenwich township, Huron county, January
26, 1832. He taught school, and studied medicine, until 1855, when he began
practice at North Fairfield, where he has since resided, and followed his
profession. In 1863 he was commissioned captain and organized the militia
of the southern district of Huron county. He was elected colonel of the
third regiment, and served until the organization was disbanded. In 1893,
he was elected by the Republicans of the county as Representative, and
was re-elected in 1895. He is eminent in his practice, and an able and
devoted legislator.
Hon Edgar Martin Back to the top
Edgar Martin, M.D., was born in Fitchville township, Huron county, October
10, 1826. His parents were Gilbert and hannah (Washburn) Martin. He began
the practice of medicine at Townsend in 1851, and continued at his profession
at that place until 1885. In 1859, he was elected justice of the peace
and held the office in Townsend for twenty-four years. In the early part
of the war he was commissioned first lieutenant in the 123d O.V.I., and
was soon promoted to a captaincy in the 166th O.V.I. In 1873, he was elected
by the Huron county republicans as member of the state legislature. In
1885 he removed to Norwalk, and has since made the city his home. In 1888,
he was elected a justice of the peace, and has held the position since,
making over thirty-two years he has served the public in that capacity,
a testimonial of high order. He is a genial gentleman and is a much respected
citizen.
Hon George F. Brady Back to the top
George F. Brady was born in Ireland, january 19, 1831, and came to this
country with his parents the following year, settling in Maryland. In 1847
he enlisted at Baltimore, in the 11th U.S. Infantry, and went to the Mexican
war. After its close he served five years in the 2nd U.S. Dragoons. In
1858, he took up his residence in Elyria, Lorain County, Ohio. In September
1861, he enlisted in the 42nd Ohio, Garfield's regiment, entering the service
as a private. At Camp Chase, before going to the front, he was made First
Lieutenant. In the summer of 1862 he came home and recruited company H,
103rd O.V.I., and became its captain. In 1863, he resigned on account of
disability. In 1870 he came to Norwalk. He was the democratic nominee for
representative from Huron County in 1887, but was defeated. In 1889 he
was elected to state senator, and served his constituents with ability.
Hon W.D. Johnston Back to the top
Vice president of the Huron County Banking Company of Norwalk,was born
in Alleghany county, Pennsylvania in 1844. He was educated at Darlington
Academy , Penn., Wetherspoon Institute, Butler Pa., and at Oberlin College,
Ohio. He became a citizen of Huron County in 1866, at which time he engaged
in mercantile pursuits at East Townsend. He was elected a member of the
House of representatives of the General Assemby of Ohio in 1883 and reelected
in 1885, serving in the 66th and 67th general assemblies. In June 1894
he was elected to the vice presidency of the banking house above referred
to, of which he has been a member of its board of directors since its organization.
George Kennan Back to the top
was born in Norwalk, Huron County, Ohio, February 16 1845. He was educated
in the public schools of his native town, and in 1862 attended the Columbus
Ohio, high school, while working at night as a telegraph operator. In 1864,
he was assis6tant chief operator in the telegraph office in Cinncinnati,
and in decmber of the same year went to Kamchatka by way of Nicaraugua,
California, and the North pacific. As leader of one of the Russo-American
telegraph company's exploring parties in northeastern Siberia in 18655-'6,
and as a superintendent of construction for the middle district of the
Siberian division from 1866- 1868, he explored and located a route for
the Russo-American telegraph line, between the Okhotsk sea and the Bering
Strait, spending nearly three years in constant travel in the interior
of northeastern Siberia, and returning to the United States on the abandonment
of the enterprise in 1868. In 1870 he went to Russia to explore the mountans
of the eastern Caucasus, proceeded down the Volga river to the Caspian
sea, made extensive explorations on horseback in Daghestan and Chechnia,
crossing the great range of the Caucasus three times in different places,
and in 1871 returned to this country. In 1885-6 he made a journey of 15,000
miles through northern Russia and Siberia for the purpose of investigating
the Russian exile system, visiting all the convict prisons and mines between
the Ural mountains and the head waters of the Amoor river and explored
the wildest part of the Russian Altai. Since his return from Russia he
has become very famous as a lecturer and writer on what he saw upon his
travels.
Hon C.S. Parker Back to the top
Was born July 15, 1819, at Burlington Vermont. He was educated in the common
schools. He removed to Ohio in 1836, settling in Vermillion, now Erie county,
but formely Huron county. Here he assumed control of a furnace business
and was engaged in this enterprise for ten years. During the gold excitement
in California he spent three years in that state. When the desperadoes
inaugurated the reign of terror which threatened to drive all reputable
people from the golden state, he was made captain of the famous vigilance
committee at Sacromento, which taught villains that justice was abroad,
even in that rude society, by hanging Rowe, the brutal murderer of Myers
at Mt. Vernon Ohio. He removed to Ohoio, and located at Norwalk in 1853,
engaging in the Mercantile business. In 1868, he was nominated on the democratic
ticket for sherriff. In 1874 he was the democratic candidate for representative;
at bothe elctions he ran way ahead of his ticket. In 1875, he was elected
sergeant-at-arms of the Ohio Senate. In 1877, he was elected to the state
senate. He was a highly esteemed citizen and made an excellent representative.
Judge Charles B. Stickney Back to
the top
The eldest son of Charles and Betsey Stickney, was born at Moira N.Y. January
29th 1810. Until the age of twenty-one he remained upon the home farm gleaning
such education as possible by attendance of the public schools of the community.
After leaving the farm, he entered an academy at Potsdam N.Y., where he
remained for four years, supporting himself by teaching school during the
winter months. In 1841, while upon a visit to Ohio, he was induced by a
former fellow student, the late Jairus Kennan, of Norwalk, then a practicing
attorney, to enter his office and commence the study of law. In 1844 he
was admitted to the bar, and upon the creation of the Court of Probate
in 1851, was elected judge of that court in Huron County. Judge Stickney
also served upon the city council,, as Mayor of the City of Norwalk, School
Examiner, member of Board of Education, and was also a member of the Whittlesey
Academy. He was a kind-hearted and benevolent gentleman, esteemed by all
who knew him. He died at the good old age of 86 years, February 25th 1896.
Henry W Shaw Back to the top
("Josh Billings") Henry W. Shaw was born in Lanesbord, Berkshire County,
Mass. April 21 1818. His father was Hon. Henry Shaw, a prominent citizen
of Berkshire County, who was a member of Congress at the age of twenty-five
years, and at that time the youngest ever elected to Congress; and for
twenty-five years was in the public life as a member of Congress or the
legislature of Massachusetts. In 1832, Henry W. Shaw entered college at
hamilton, N.Y. and remained one year, when he returned home to spend his
vacation. When on his return trip to college, on a canal boat between Albany
and Utica, he met as passengers, two adventurers on their way to St. Louis,
and their stories of the wild west so captured the student that college
was left in the rear, and he continued his journey until he reached Saint
Louis, where he joined a band of adventurers who were going across the
plains to the Pacific, but owing to troubles with Indians, the party broke
up, leaving young Shaw a tramp in the streets of St. Louis, from which
city he wandered east, arriving in Norwalk, sometime in the winter of 1835-6,
where his brother Robert was then engaged in mercantile business. Here
"Josh" spent his younger years, boarding at the hotel and having all the
fun he could get out of the small village, such as Norwalk was at that
time. Many anecdotes of "Josh's" pranks are still remembered. His father
was athe owner of a large tract of land in Townsend on the Medina road,
and he gave Henry a farm where the Hill family now live, where he stayed
part of the time, though the hotel in town was his home. His principal
business was trading horses, and it made little difference whether he got
a good trade or a poor one, so that he traded. But he was a good judge
of horses and hard to beat, though occaionally he got worsted. In 1845,
Henry married Miss Bedford, of Lanesbord, Mass. And brought his wife to
Norwalk for their home. , much to the surpirse of his friends and acquaintances
who had never mistrusted that Henry thought of marrying. Then they were
much more surpised at his marrying such a charming, accomplished, and agreeable
young lady; whose influence seemed to change him at once to a man of stability,
with good habits, a kind husband, and an indulgent parent. Henry purchased
the house on Whittlesey avenue of John Tifft and lived there with his family
for some eight years, when he sold the property back to Dr. Tifft, and
removed to Saratoga, for the purpose of educating his two daughters, who
were born in Norwalk. After three years, "josh" returned to Norwalk, and
spent the winter, and in the spring he located in Poughkeepsie NY, thence
to New York City. In 1863, Henry W. Shaw commenced writing short essays
in phonetic character style, signing "Josh Billings", the first being "On
the mule", for which he received $1.50, and from that time onward until
his death he continued to write and lecture, until his writings were known
and appreciated as those of one of the happiest and most pleasing in the
country. As a young man of liesure about town, he was always full of wit
and ready at reparteee. At one time he commenced studying law with Boalt
& Worcester, prominent lawyers in this city, but after a few weeks
he did not appear at the office, and Mr Boalt meeting him on the street
one day said to him "Henry I haven't seen you at the office lately." "No."
Says Henry, "I think the office has moved away; I haven't been able to
find it." And that was the last of his studying law. Henry W. Shaw died
at Monterey Calfornia October 15, 1886 and was buried at Lanesbord , Mass
and has a block of rough granite, six feet long, four feet square, laid
horizontal at the head of the grave with "Josh Billings " cut on the face
and "Henry W Shaw" on the upper surface.
Edwin Gager Back to the top
Was born in Pleasant valley, Dutchess county, N.Y. March 4, 1808. In 1831
he married Miss Permelia Rose, and in 1834 they settled in Camden, Lorain
county, where they resided a number of years, and where Mr. Gager did a
vast amount of pioneer work in the then unbroken wilderness. In 1851 he
came to Norwalk and for a number of years was actively engaged in Mercantile
pursuits. His death occurred April 14, 1894.
Eri Mesnard Back to the top
Was born in Norwalk, Conn. In 1797 and was there reared. He received his
education and was graduated ia practical engineer at Ithaca N.Y. He assited
in the location and construction of one of the first railroads constructed
in the state of N.Y., known as the Ithaca and Oswego Railroad. In 1836,
he moved to Huron Co. He first located upon a farm in Fairfield township,
but after a brief period, became a permanent resident of Norwalk township.
In 1850 he was elected county surveyor, and for fourteen consecutive years
he performed the duties of that office with great credit. He was a member
of the Methodist Episcopal Church and a man of sterling integrity and christian
virtues. He died Jan 28 1879.
James Riley Griffin Back to the top
Was born April 29 1812, in the town of Hunter, Greene County, N.Y., His
boyhood was passed upon his father's farm and in attending winter school.
When a youth he learned the trade of a carpenter, though he continued to
give his attention to books. After settling in Greenwich township he taught
several terms of school in Fitchville Township, the highest salary being
$15 per month and "boarding round". January 21, 1839 he married Philena
Washburn, who was brought by her parents to Greenwich Township in 1819.
She died febuary 20, 1863. January 21 1864 he married Mrs. Mary Jane (Carl)
Baker. Mr. Griffin settled upon a farm of 100 acres in Greenwich Township
in 1834 and there resdied until 1876, when he removed to the town of Greenwich,
where he has since resided, living a semi-retired life.
John M. Whiton Back to the top
Whose portrait appears elsewhere in this volume, was born in Berkshire
county, Mass. In 1830. About 1831 the parents of the subject, (J.M. and
Sallie Bradley Whiton) removed to the Western Reserve. And settled in Huntington,
Lorain county. Here the subject waqs reared, attending such schools of
the community afforded and when a youth learned the trade of a blacksmith.
In 1849, he left for California and for several years devoted his attention
to gold mining. 1852 found him returned to Lorain county, and embarked
in mercantile pursuits at Huntington. In 1855 he removed to a farm purchased
and pre-empted in Hardin county Iowa where, in 1856, he assited in the
assisted in the organization of Pleasant township of that county. In the
spring of 1857 he again returned to Lorain county, and until 1872 was engaged
in business at Brighton. He then purchased a farm in Wakeman, Huron county,
which he conducted until the opening of his present business establishment
in Wakeman village. He is a member of the Congregational Church and has
for years been an active Sabbath School worker. He is also a valued member
of the Firelands Historical Society.
George T. Thomas Back to the top
Probate Judge of Huron county, son of Uri B. Thomas and Ellen (McOMber)
Thomas, was born in Greenwich township, Huron county, Ohio, September 11
1856. He attended school for some time at Oberlin College and Buchtel College
at Akron; then studied law and admitted to practice February 2 1886. Hewas
the mayor of the village of Greenwich, 1883 to 1885, and about the same
time held the office of township clerk, member of the board of education,
and secretary of the Greenwich Land and Building Association. In November
1886, he began the practice of law at Norwalk. In 1890 he was elected Probate
Judge, and was re-elected in 1893. He is a fluent speaker and is often
called upon to make public addresses. Mr. Thomas was married to Miss Emma
J. Miller, of Fairfield township, this county, April 10, 1880, and they
have one child, Alton Orr Thomas.
William H. Price Back to the top
William Henry price, one of our energetic business men, was nborn in Wales.
Educated in England, he came to America in his twenty-second year, loacting
in Cleveland O., where he was for several years in the shipping and packing
business. His health failing him, he sold out and went to Europe where
he spent one year. After his return, and three more years in business,
his health again failing him, he sold out and located in Norwalk on a farm
within a short distance of the city. As soon as he recuperated, he again
established himself in business, engaging in several enterprises. In 1889
he with C.H. Stewart and W.O. Monnett organized the Norwalk Savings Bank
Co. of which he is now president. He is vice president of the First national
Bank, and is also interested in Cleveland Banks, and in a great many industries
of Norwalk. When the Sandusky, Milan, and Norwalk electric railroad was
projected he took an active interest in it, and was for a considerable
time one of its directors. He, with Mr. C.H. Stewart, has built more than
100 houses in Norwalk, and has a great deal towards the extension and building
up of the city.
Rev. George F. Leonard Back to the
top
The son of Jacob Drake and Nancy Brown Leonard, was born in the state of
Maryland in 1832. His boyhood days were spent in Marietta O. He received
his education in Marietta Academy, Granville College (now Denison University),
and in Newton (Mass. ) Theological Institution. He graduated A.B. from
Granville College in 1852. ; received the degree of A.M in 1855and the
degree of D.D. from the same institution in 1888. He was ordained the pastor
of the baptist church in Mt. Vernon O. in 1854 and subsequently served
as pastor of the baptist church in Lockland O, Ironton O, Elyria O., Wauseon
O., and 1871 to 1882 in Peru Ind. In 1882 he was elected secretary and
superintendent of missions for the Ohio Baptist Convention, and having
accepted, removed to Norwalk where he resided until August 1895, when he
removed to Granville O. During the rebellion he was in the service of the
chrsitian commission on the field and in the hospitals. Mrs. Leonard is
the youngest daughter of Samuel Sherman, deceased, one of the pioneer citizens
of Norwalk.
Hon R.C. Powers Back to the top
Is a prominent attorney, residing at New London O. He came to that place
at an early day, and has for many years been one of its most esteemed citizens.
In 1882 he was chosen to represent Huron county in the state legislature
and served for two years.
Rev Charles V. Chevraux Back to the
top
Father Chevraux was born in the eastern part of France January 22 1848.
When a boy of six years his parents emigrated to America and located in
the town of Louisville, Stark County, Ohio. Here he attended the local
schools and subsequently the diocesan college at that place. He later entered
St. Mary's seminary at Cleveland where he was graduated in 1874, and was
ordained at South Bend Indiana by Bishop Gilmour. He was then stationed
at the cathedral, Cleveland, for more than eleven years, and proved himself
a priest of eminent qualities. In 1885, when the pastorate of St. Mary's,
Norwalk, was made vacant by the death of Rev. Father Halley, Father Chevraux'
s appointment to the incumbency was eminently fitting and to his efforts
may be ascribed the excellent parochial schools, conducted by the sisters
of St. Joseph, and the erection on the corner of State and League Streets,
Norwalk of St. Mary's one of the most handsome church edifaces in northern
Ohio.
Benjamin G. Fanning Back to the top
For many years a well-known and highly respected resident at Clarksfield
Township, was born in Ontario county New York, September 11 1823. At the
age of about ten years, he accompanied his mother, mother, brothers, and
a sister to Huron County, Ohio, locating in Clarksfield township. While
a youth he learned the trade of a shoemaker, and after devoting some years
to that industry he transferred his attention to the cultivation of fruit,
fruit trees, and general farming, which proved a successful venture. He
married on July 4, 1846, Miss Sabra, daughter of Sherman Smith of Clarksfield
township, and to them were born five children. Mr. Fanning died December
11, 1891, at his home four miles north of New London.
Ira S. Townsend Back to the top
The subject of this sketch was born in New London Township, Huron county,
June 14, 1831, and was the first child born in a frame house in that locality.
Upon the completion of his studies at Oberlin College, he returned to his
father's farm, sharing in the labor of its successful conduct until he
embarked in personal enterprises. September 27, 1855 he married Miss Mary
A. Ward, of Milan Ohio who died October 14, 1881. Later in life he married
Miss Ellen L. Ward, a sister of his deceased wife. His entire life was
spent upon his excellently conducted farm in New London township, where
he died September 12, 1893. He was director of the First National Bank
of New London, from its incorporation in 1872, and for eleven years served
as its vice-president, and as its president for six years. In 1892 the
institution was reorganized under the name of The New London Bank, of which
he became president, serving until his death. Upon the seas of commerce
and in the field of agriculture he was alike successful.
Mrs Phoebe Coutant Back to the top
Was born in Newburgh, N.Y. January 22 1796. She with her husband were residents
of Greenwich township for a great number of years. She died May 7 1896,
at the home of her son, Gideon B. Coutant. At the time of her death, she
enjoyed the distinction of being a centenarian and the oldest resident
of Huron Co.
Hosea Townsend Back to the top
The subject of this sketch was one of the pioneers of Huron County, and
of New London Township. He was born at Greenbush, N.Y., May 25 1794. On
August 15, 1815 he first visted New London, and after a few weeks of investigation,
became convinced of the desirability and the fertility of the soil, and
despite the exceeding wildness of the land and the many dangers to be encountered,
determined to establish his home here. He however, first returned to his
eastern hom, and on February 4 1816, accompanied by his brother Hiram Townsend,
started for their future home in the wilds of New London. After fifty-two
days of travel, with an ox team, they arrived at their destination on March
28, 1816. With him he brought the iron from which he made the first plow
used in the turning of the virgin soil of New London. To him also belongs
the credit of having planted the first orchard (in 1820) and the erection
of the first frame dwelling (1826) in the township. March 25, 1821, he
maried Miss Sophia Case, who taught the first school established in the
township. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, and by an act of Congress
he was granted 160 acres of land, to the cultivation of which, he always
gave his attention, and at his death he was the possessor of more than
one thousand acres in New London and Fitchville townships. At the time
of his death he, which occurred December 18, 1884, he was a citizen of
New London village, having resided there and in the township for nearly
seventy years. He was indeed a pioneer.
John T. Townsend Back to the top
Of Fitchville township, the eldest son of Hosea and Sophia Townsend, was
born July 22, 1824, in New London, township and there reared. In youth
he attended the public schools and Oberlin College, after which he devoted
his attention during the winter months to teaching in the schools of Fitchville
and Clarksfield Townships. September 20, 1849, he married Elizabeth, daughter
of Lenius Palmer, who was the youngest of the four Palmer brotherswho settled
in Fitchville township in 1818. Mr. Townsend has always been an agriculturalist,
though he has devoted much of his time to the interest of his township
and county, as is evident from the fact that for more than twenty-three
years he performed the duties of the office of justice of the peace, and
resigned at the expiartion of the period mentioned. In 1880 he was elected
a member of the board of county commissioners, serving until 1886.
Nicolas D. Welsh Back to the top
Was born January 11 1819, in Arundel county, Maryland. In 1836 he became
a resident of Ohio, Champaign County. In September 1843, he removed to
Huron county. The country was yet new, thinly settled and neighbors were
few and far between. Mr. Welsh now resides in Greenwich, honored and respected
by a large circle of acquaintances.
Abram D. Stotts Back to the top
Whose protrait appears elsewhere in thes epages, was born in Belmont County,
Ohio in 1822, and in 1823 he came with his parents to Huron county, locating
in Ripley township. The absence of schools rendered our subject's earlier
education very meager, but in youth, by close study after hours of toil
in the forest, he acquired a knowledge of the common brances much in advance
of the average. In 1850, Mr. Stotts married Miss Maryetta Boughton, of
Fitchville Township, in whose honor the village of Boughtonville was named.
Although devoting his attention almost exclusively to agriculture, Mr.
Stotts has, since 1879, been the president of the Huron County Farmer's
Insurance Company. He is a member and a liberal supporter of the Fairfield
Baptist Church.
Hiram Smith Back to the top
Was born in Essex Co. N.Y. jan 23 1816. At the age of fourteen he "bound"
himself to and apprenticeship of nearly seven years, learning the trade
of machinist and moulder. He was employed at various points in New York
State until 1846 when he removed to Norwalk, making the journey from Dunkirk
N.Y. to Milan Ohio by boat. Until 1850, he was employed at making threshing
machines in the old building now known as the Empire Building, Norwalk.
Then followed two years with the Michigan Central Railway at Detroit. In
1853, he became connected with the Toldeo, Norwalk, and Cleveland Ry. For
thrty-six years he was employed by that line, and during that time making
many valuable improvements in mechanical devices. He now lives in retirement
in Norwalk.
James Breckenridge Back to the top
A native of Charlot, Vermont, came to Ohio in 1816 or 17, settling for
a brief period in Venice, Ohio. He then removed to Monroeville, where he
passed the remainder of his life.
Eli Peters Back to the top
Was born in Union County, Pennsylvania, where he was reared and educated.
In 1850 he came to Norwalk and embarked in the clothing business. His parents
having died when he was yet a boy,, he had to shift for himself; and his
remarkable success in life - considering his advantages - was entirely
due to his plodding perseverance, sound judgement in business transactions,
and unquestioned integrity. It has truly been said of him that his character
was without a blemish and his honor pure and unsullied. On December 15
1852, at Wooster, Wayne County, Ohio he was married to Mary Jane Weed,
a native of Wayne County, and two children were born to them. Mr. Peters
was a member and senior warden of the Episcopal Church at Norwalk for many
years. He died December 12 1890, at the age of 65 years.
John G. Sherman Back to the top
Mr. Sherman was born in Wakeman Township, Huron County, November 14 1830
and his entire life was passed upon the farm of his nativity. In the active
years of his life, he was a successful farmer, but gave some attention
to newspaper reporting. For thirty-five years, he kept a diary, recording
not only events of a personal character, but those also of general interest.
His weather reports were published by many of the leading newspapers. Though
not a politician, he was frequently a delegate to the conventions and councils
of the Republican party, and had the honor to assist in the renomination
of President Grant at the at the National Republican Convention at Philadelphia
in 1872. He was for years an active member of the Congregational Church
at Wakeman, and was one of its deacons at the time of his death, which
occurred May 27 1893.
DJ Brady Back to the top
Was born in Cayuga County, New York, in 1816. In 1817 his parents moved
to Staten Island, New York, and there the subject was reared. In 1824 they
moved to Greenwich Township, Huron County, locating in the woods. And Mr.
Brady assited greatly in clearing the forest and opening to cultivation
the present broad and fertile acres of the southern portion of the county.
Mr Brady, at a ripe old age, is still residing amid the scenes of his labors.
Warren Severance Back to the top
A well known resident of Chicago, Ohio was born October 9, 1836, in Sandusky
County, Ohio. After having received a thorough education he devoted some
nine years to teaching in the schools of his native county and Huron County.
In 1863, he purchased a farm near New Haven, which he conducted successfully
without interfering in his professional duties as instructor. That Mr.
Severance possesses great energy and progressiveness is proven by the fact
that in March 1878 at the age of forty-two, he was admitted to the Huron
County bar, and immediately began the practice of that profession, at Chicago.
In 1891, he was appointed local counsel for the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad
company. He has been identified with every movement calculated to advance
the moral and material interests of the community in which he resides.
Franklin D. Read Back to the top
Was the first white child born in Huron County, which event occurred April
25, 1812, in what is now Greenfield Township, of which his father Hanson
Read, was one of the first, if not the first settler. He married Miss Melvina
Fitzgerald, a native of New York State, May 6 1834, and they reared five
children. In his youth he learned the trade of a stone mason, though nearly,
or quite his entire adult life was spent as a farmer. In the earlier days
when wild game abounded, he gained considerable fame as a hunter, and his
ability as a naturalist was widely recognized. He died August 13, 1891.
Lemuel Sherman Back to the top
Was born in Barre, Vt. Sept. 20, 1811. He came to Huron County with his
parents early in life, settling in what is now Townsend Township. In 1834,
he married Miss Polly Jones. They settled upon a farm in Norwalk Township
and began their united career in a log cabin with its primitive furnishings.
Industry and frugality soon brought a competence, and pioneer structures
gave place to more pretentious buildings. He built and operated the first
sawmill in the Firelands, and lumber for all purposes, for miles around,
came from that mill. He was a staunch abolitionist and was one of the leaders
in the operation and maintenance of the underground railway. He died in
Norwalk, September 24, 1891.
William Gathergood Back to the top
This subject was born March 10 1823, near Kingslynn, County of Norfolk,
England, and was there reared. He married July 2 1846 Maria Starling, also
of the county of Norfolk, and to the union nine children have been born,
five of whom were born in England. August 16 1854, he embarked for America,
arriving at New York October 6 1854, and immediately proceeded to Monroeville,
this county, where he has since resided. In 1865 he was engaged by the
officials of the county to establish certain grades, to improve roads,
etc. and the success and skill to which he performed the labor was so great
as to recommend his services to those having such work in charge, even
to this date. It may be said truly that when Uncle Billy (as he is familiarly
known) completes a job, it displays the master's touch and remains a monument
to his genius.
Martin M. Hester Back to the top
Was born September 23, 1822, in Orange Township Richland (now Ashland)
County, Ohio. He removed with his father and family to Bronson Township,
Huron County, Ohio, in 1827. He has lived for sixty nine years on the same
farm, a man of untiring industry, activity, perseverance, and integrity.
He was married May 21 1850 to Miss Mary Finlay of Coshocton County, Ohio.
To them were born three children, Wm. J. of Cambridge Ohio, Catherine E.,
wife of Rev. E.J.V. Booth, of Doyleston Ohio, and Finlay on the home farm.
While has had been diligent in business he has been faithful in church
service. For forty-nine years he has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal
Church. For forty-seven years, continuously the recording steward of the
circuit, and for over forty-two years has not missed being present at quarterly
meeting. He was absent but twice on account of sickness out of 188 quarterly
meetings. He has been 45 years the secretery and treasurer of board of
trustees; twice chairman of building committee, has had charge of building
two churches. He has been forty years a class leader; more than twenty
years district steward; more than twenty years Sunday School superintendent;
more than thirty years Sunday school teacher, and twenty-four years continuously
Justice of Peace.
Hon. Evert Bogardus Back to the top
Was born September 15, 1813. He died June 28 1892. As a man he was upright
and honest in his dealings; as a citizen he was public spirited. He served
the county twelve years, as commissioner, as representative in the general
assembly, and as justice of the peace. As a Christian his life was exemplary,
and his memory is green and fragrant in the minds of his friends and neighbors.
Samuel Sherman Back to the top
Was born in the state of Vermont in 1778. He came to Huron County Ohio,
in 1817. In 1820 he was married to Miss Polly Barbour, a native of Delaware,
who came to this county in 1818, when 19 years of age. Their first home
was in Townshend. It was a log cabin in the woods, and contained only one
room, 14 feet square. It was not only the kitchen, bedroom, and parlor,
but also a miniature factory - for here stood the old-fashioned loom and
spinning wheel, on which she spun the wool and wove the cloth from which
their clothing was made. In the construction of this house there was nothing
of iron, not even a nail, and no sawed board or timber. The woods around
the house abounded in bears, wolves, deer, and other wild animals, and
less than a mile distant was an Indian camp. In 1831, they removed to their
home on Medina Road, two and a half miles east of Norwalk. Here Mr. Sherman
died in 1880, and Mrs Sherman in 1888. They were both, from their youth,
esteemed members of the Baptist Church. There were born to them seven children,
only two of whom are now living: Mrs. Harriet Roberts, widow of Warren
D. Roberts, and Mrs. Lucy S., wife of Rev G.E. Leonard, D.D.
William Perrin Back to the top
A representative business man of Norwalk, was born at Wilkesbarre, Penna.
March 31 1835. IN 1837 his parents removed to Huron County, Ohio. The subject
was educated at the Huron Institute of Milan and in youth taught school
in this county. Later he devoted his attention to agricultural pursuits,
stone quarrying, and dealing in real estate. He assisted in laying out
the route of the Wheeling and Lake Erie Railway.
Deacon Albert Brown Back to the top
Was born in Thornton, Grafton Co. New Hampshire, May 6 1801, where he resided
until 1812, when he removed with his parents to Hopkinton, N.H. In 1817
his parents again removed to Middlesex NY where they resided until 1823,
in which year they removed to Ridgefield Township, Huron County. The subject
of the sketch came in the fall of the same year, covering the entire distance
on foot. April 22 1832 he was united in marriage to Miss Emma Jane Bloomer,
who died October 9, 1888. When a young man he learned the trade of a carpenter,
and though he became a master workman in that line, he abandoned it, devoting
his attention to farming. In 1882 he removed to East Norwalk, where he
resided until his death, which occurred May 22 1894.
Mrs. Albert Brown Back to the top
Emma Jane Bloomer was born in Dorset, Vermont, May 18, 1808. She removed
to Ridgefield with her parents Reuben and Lois Bloomer, in 1817. April
22 1832 she married Albert Brown, and for more than fifty-three years they
were residents of Monroeville. Mrs. Brown united with the Presbyterian
church in 1840, and was a consistent Christian and member until her death,
October 9, 1888.
Uri Baker Thomas Back to the top
Large land owner and stock raiser of the northern part of Greenwich Township,
second son of George Thomas and Adiline (Baker) Thomas, was born in the
town of Exter, Ostego County, New York, October 24, 1818; obtained a common
school education in the district school of his neighborhood, and at a school
academy at Clinton New York. IN the winter of 1840-41 he taught district
school at Birmington Flats, NY. Studied law for one summer in 1843, afterwards
taught school winters and worked on the farm of his father in summers.
April 1846he came to Ohio and settled on the farm where he now lives. In
1849 Mr Thomas was united in marriage with Miss Ellen McOmber at Columbus,
Ohio; from this union the following children were born: Orr Uri Thomas,
Geogre T. Thomas, present probate judge of Huron County, and Dora E. Thomas.
In 1861, Ellen Thomas died, and in 1864 Mr. Thomas married Miss Myra B.
Stowe of Huron, Erie County, Ohio. Mr. Thomas is a man of wide reading,
highly intelligent and of great perseverance.
Martin Hester Back to the top
Eldest son of Martin and Elizabeth Mason Hester, was born in 1787 in Greene
County, Penn. And was there reared on the farm of his father, attending
during the winter months, the subscription schools of his community. When
his parents removed to Columbiana County, O. he accompanied them, where
for four or five years he devoted his attention to farming. He then removed
to Orange Township, Richland (now Ashland) County, where he became the
possessor of 160 acres of land, and resided until 1824, when he removed
to Bronson township, Huron County, settling upon land purchased from Judge
Southgate, and there spent the remainder of his busy life, dying in 1870.
In 1809 he married Miss Mary Stough, of Fayette County, Pa. and to the
union were born five children.
James G. Gibbs Back to the top
The subject was born in Norwalk, August 7, 1852, and there reared. After
being graduated from Norwalk High School in 1869, he learned the trade
of a printer. He then attended Lafayette College at Easton, Penna. After
which he became connected with the Chicago Inter Ocean. In 1873, he purchased
an interest in the Norwalk Reflector, and has for many years been the manager
of that successful journal. He is vice president of the Laning Printing
Co.; treasurer of the National Editorial Association of the United States;
president of the Ohio Savings, Loan, and Investment Co.; president of the
present board of education of the city of Norwalk, and is also connected
with various enterprises calculated to advance the moral and material interests
of the community.
Hon Jay F Laning Back to the top
Was born at New London O. May 15 1853, where he resided until January 1882,
when he moved to Norwalk, which city has since been his residence. He was
educated chiefly in the public schools. From the age of 15 to 21 his time
was spent winters teaching. During these years his spare hours were devoted
to the study of law. IN 1875 he was admitted to the bar, and followed the
practice for 8 years. After moving to Norwalk, he gradually abandoned the
law, and built up the publishing business in which he is now engaged. In
1875, he married Caroline E. Sheldon, youngest daughter of Rufus and Mary
Sheldon, for many years residents of Greenwich Township, and six children
have blessed their union. He was a member of the council of this city for
many years, and is at present the member of the state senate, having been
elected in 1893 and reelected in 1895.
A.M. Beattie Back to the top
A.M. Beattie was born June 10 1853, in Ruggles Township, Ashland County
O. During his early years he labored on the farm of his father and attended
the country school in the neighborhood. At the age of 19 he began teaching
school, which occupation alternated with periods spent attending higher
schools, until 1879 when he graduated from the law department of the Indiana
State University. In the spring of 1880 he was admitted to the bar and
located in New London and practiced the profession of the law until 1885,
at which time he removed to Norwalk to assume the duties of the clerk of
courts, to which office he had been elected in the fall of 1884. This office
he continued to hold for six years, when he retired from it and began again
the practice of law. For seven years he has been a member of the city board
of education.
H.H. Hoyt Back to the top
Son of Elmon and Elizabeth Hoyt, was born October 22, 1860, at North Fairfield,
of this county. His boyhood was passed upon the farm and in attendance
of the public schools. After clerking for a general store at North Fairfield
for one year he was given the management of it and for six years successfully
conducted same. In 1883 he and his father became owners of the stock, and
erected, in the same year, a large brick building where Mr. Hoyt established
perhaps the best country store in Ohio. In 1887 he removed to Norwalk,
engaging in the dry goods business. In 1893, he with Mr. C.F. Jackson,
purchased the lot upon which the old Methodist Church stood for many years,
and erected the large building known as the Glass Block. In his ventures
Mr. Hoyt has displayed excellent judgement and as a gentleman and business
man he is highly esteemed.
SA Wildman Back to the top
Samuel A. Wildman was born in Clarksfield, Huron County, March 28, 1846.
He is the son of Frederic A. Wildman, a resident of this city. At the age
of 15 he entered a printing office, but not quite 18 years old, in February,
1864 he entered as a private in the 28th Ohio Infantry Volunteers, and
served until the muster out of the regiment on June 8 1866, more than a
year after the close of the war. His rank at muster out was that of sergeant.
In 1867 he entered Western reserve College at Hudson, O. but did not complete
his course. Upon leaving college he began the study of law, and was admitted
to the bar in 1870, and has been engaged in practice ever since. At present
he is president of the Children's Home Association of Huron County, president
of the Norwalk board of education, was for years trustee of the Firelands
Historical Society, and has been for many years secretary of the Whittlesey
Academy of Arts and Sciences. He was a nominee of the Republican party
for circuit judge in 1887. Mr Wildman is one of the prominent leaders of
the Norwalk bar and one of its brightest ornaments. His literary ability
is of a very high order. He was married on July 13, 1870 to Ellen Elizabeth
Howe, daughter of Samuel P. Howe, of Norwalk.
Charles H Stewart Back to the top
Son of Hon. Gideon T. and Abby (Simmons) Stewart, was born in Norwalk,
November 6, 1859. He attended the schools of Norwalk and completed his
education at the Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, O., after which he
commenced study of law in the office of his father and in 1882 was admitted
to the bar. He spent some time in successful practice, but at the same
time was operating lŭ˙˙˙
Dr. A. Sheldon Back to the top
Eldest son of Rufus and Mary Griffin Sheldon, was born in Greenwich, township.
He passed his early years upon a farm. At quite a juvenile age he commenced
teaching school, and for several years divided his time between teaching
and going to school at Oberlin. He graduated at the Cleveland Medical College,
and practiced medicine, until in 1884, he became connected with the Laning
Printing Co., and took up his home in Norwalk. His affable ways made him
many friends, and in 1892 he was elected Auditor of Huron County. He has
been a very popular elected official, and was re-elected in 1895.
Frederick Christian Wickham Back
to the top
The third son of Judge Frederick and Lucy Bancroft Wickham was born in
Norwalk, Huron County, Ohio August 5, 1842. When a lad he attended the
public schools of Norwalk. When ready to complete his education, enlisted
in August 1862, in the 123rd OVI regiment, serving as commissary of the
regiment until mustered out with his regiment in June 1865. Was postmaster
of Norwalk for eight years. Is a printer by trade, and assistant local
editor of the Norwalk Daily Reflector. He resides with his family in Norwalk,
Ohio.
Hon L.C. Lavlin Back to the top
L.C. Laylin was born in Norwalk, O., September 28, 1848. He graduated from
Norwalk High School in 1867. In 1869 he was elected superintendent of the
Bellevue Public Schools, which position he held for six years. He was admitted
to the bar in 1877. He was city clerk of Norwalk for two years and member
of the Huron County board of examiners, three years. In 1879, he was elected
prosecuting attorney of Huron County and held that office seven years.
He was elected to the state legislature in 1887 and twice re-elected. In
1892, he was chosen speaker of the house of representatives. Mr. Laylin
is now engaged in the practice of his profession, ranking among our leading
attorneys and most public spirited citizens.
John Gardiner Back to the top
Was born September 5, 1816, at Gardiner's Point, Connecticut. In 1831,
he attended school at the Bacon Academy, Connecticut. In the fall of 1832,
he was persuaded by his uncle, J.M. Latimer, to visit Ohio and in May,
1833, he arrived at Norwalk. After clerking for some time in the store
of P. and J. Latimer he took a clerkship in the Bank of Norwalk and afterwards
became its cashier. In 1840 he began the business of merchandizing and
continued in that until 1847, when he, with others, established the Norwalk
branch of the State Bank of Ohio, with which he remained as cashier and
manager until the bank closed its business in 1865. He then organized the
Norwalk National Bank and has since been its President. Mr. Gardiner was
one of the original incorporators of the Toledo, Cleveland, and Norwalk
Railway Company, which afterwards became the Cleveland and Toledo Railway
Company. He was director in that company and for a considerable time its
president. He is a director of the Sandusky, Mansfield and Newark Railway
company and has been its president for a number of years. He has also been
connected with other railway enterprises and projects of a similar character.
By industry, integrity and perseverance he has accumulated a handsome fortune
and is one of the largest property holders in Huron County. He married,
in 1843, Miss Frances Mary Joslin and four children have been reared.
Hon Caleb H. Gallup Back to the top
Was born in Norwalk in 1834. His grandfather, Platt Benedict, built the
first house in Norwalk, in 1817. He graduated at Madison University, Hamilton,
N.Y., in 1856, and at the Cincinnati Law School in 1858. Practiced law
in Michigan until 1872, was prosecuting attorney in that state ten consecutive
years, and member of its legislature in 1866-7. Since his return to Norwalk
in 1872, he has been an active friend and promoter of all its worthy public
enterprises and to his efforts and energy Norwalk is largely indebted for
the possession of the possession of the Wheeling and Lake Erie RR and its
shops, the A.B. Chase factory and many other improvements. He is the President
of the Home Savings and Loan Co. of Norwalk.
Matthew McKelvey Back to the top
Was born in Westmoreland County, Pa. January 30, 1794. The records of the
pension department show that his father, William McKelvey, was granted
a pension for six years actual service in the Revolutionary War. The family
moved from Pennsylvania to Portage County, Ohio in 1804, and from there
to Trumbull County, in 1806, and from there to Greenfield Township in 1815.
Nancy Adams was born in Windom county Vermont July 30 1798 and with her
parents moved to Greenfield Township in 1815. Her father, Bildad Adams,
was one of thefirst three commissioners of Huron County, and she taught
the first school in Peru Township. It was at Maxville, and was one of the
first in the county. Nancy Adams and Matthew McKelvey were married March
27, 1818 in Greenfield Township. Soon after their marriage they moved to
the Town of Portland, now the city of Sandusky, where the originals of
the portraits appearing elsewhere in this volume were painted. They are
believed to have been the first portraits painted in what was then Huron
County, now Huron and Erie Counties. Mr McKelvey was engaged in the mercantile
business at Portland until 1825, when he moved to Paris, now Plymouth,
Huron and Richland Counties, where he purchased and completed the third
frame building in that locality, opened the first general store, and materially
aided in advancing the growth of the town by building a considerable number
of houses. In 1830, he erected a building for the purpose and established
a Seminary for Young Ladies. They resided at Plymouth until 1841, when
they moved to Hardin ounty, but returned to Plymouth in 1842. MR. McKelvey
died in Greenfield Township in March 18,1853. They had ten children, seven
girls and three boys. The three youngest of the children are still living:
Martha, Mrs. E.C. Scovell, in Greenfield Township, Matthew in Tiffin, O.,
and John, in Sandusky, O.
Hon Eleutheros Cooke Back to the top
Died at his home in Sandusky December 27 1864. For nearly a half century,
his name was identified with many public enterprises and improvements incident
to settling the Firelands. He was the pioneer of railroad enterprise in
the West, having been the original projector and earnest co-worker in the
construction of the Mad River Railroad, which was the first railroad built
west of the Alleghany Mountains and the fourth in the United States. He
served in both branches of State Legislature and as a member of Congress.
As a lawyer he had few equals in Ohio. He was born in Granville, N.Y.,
December 25, 1787, the year in which the constitution of the United States
was framed by the general convention, and his name Eleutheros was given
in commemoration of that event. He was at one time a resident of Lyme Township,
at Cooke's Corners, this county, and a view of his home, the birth place
of his son, the eminent financier, Jay Cooke, is given elsewhere in this
volume.
F.E. Wildman Back to the top
Mr. Wildman was born September 24, 1846 in Clarksfield Township, Huron
County, where he was reared and became the recipient of a good education.
When a young man he engaged as a helper in the milling firm of Bates and
Gilbert, of Norwalk. Later he removed to Iowa Falls, Iowa where he was
employed in a mercantile establishment. In 1880, having returned from the
west several years previous, he embarked, in a small way in the dry goods
and notions business at Oberlin, and later at Kipton, in Lorain County.
IN 1889 he removed to Clarksfield, and in 1891 to West Clarksfield, where
until 1895 he successfully conducted a large general store. Mr. Wildman
is a staunch Republican and in April, 1892, was appointed postmaster at
West Clarksfield. He now resides in Norwalk, having retired from active
business engagements.
George Harrison Gibbs Back to the
top
Came to Norwalk, Ohio from Norwalk, Conn., with the family of his father
in 1818. The portrait appearing elsewhere was made when he was thrity-five
years old.
Theodore Williams Back to the top
Mr. Theodore Williams is a native of Norwalk, O., and was born January
3, 1820. His father was a lawyer of prominence and was for several years
prosecuting attorney of Huron County. Mr. Williams elemenrtary education
was obtained in the district and private schools of that early date, and
was completed in the Norwalk Seminary. In 1834, he commenced clerking in
the store of P. and J.M. Latimer, in Norwalk. In 1837, he commenced upon
a clerkship in the store of Milton W. Goodnow, succeeded in a short time
by the firm of Goodnow & Edwards. In 1843 he became an equal partner
in the firm of Goodnow & Williams. This partnership continued until
January 1851 when by the death of Mr. Goodnow it terminated, and Mr. Williams
purchased the Goodnow interest in the business. Mr. Williams continued
in the business of merchandising until 1885, a period of 42 years. Upon
retiring, he found himself the owner of two merchant flouring mills, one
located in Norwalk, and the other near Toledo, and these together with
the managing of his several farms, occupy most of his time and attention.
In 1882 he was elected president of the First National Bank of Norwalk,
holding the position for eight years, when he resigned after being re-elected
to the position. He has also held other offices of trust and responsibilty,
and is at present president, secretary, treasurer, and superintendent of
Woodlawn Cemetery. In 1870 he was elected on the State Board of Equilization.
For 17 years he was a member of the board of education of the public schools
of Norwalk, and occupied during a large part of the time the position of
President of the board. In September, 1861, Mr. Williams was married to
Miss Mary Isabelle Goodnow, by which union six children were born.
Rev John E Pitezel Back to the top
Was born in Frederick County, Md., April 18 1814, son of Henry and Mary
E. Pitezel; moved to Licking County, Ohio in the spring of 1823. Here his
parents twice went into the unbroken forest, in each place building a log
house and clearing land. May 15, 1828, the father died. In the spring of
1829 the mother with her six children moved to Tiffin, O., where John,
during five years, learned the trade of saddler. In spring of 1834 he entered
the old Norwalk Seminary. The next year he entered the Methodist Itinerancy,
with which, in Michigan and Ohio, he has been connected sixty-one years.
He has been a member of the Methodist Church nearly seventy-two years.
Of a former wife one only child survives, Mrs. Carrie Painter, wife of
Rev. W.H. Painter, of Vermillion Ohio. He married Mrs. E.A. Breckenridge,
December 14 1887, with whom, his home has been of late, in Norwalk.
James Whipple Baker Back to the top
The edlest son of Timothy Baker, was born in Fairfield, Herkimer County,
N.Y., May 11 1819, and came to Norwalk the same year arriving September
27. His education was in the Norwalk Academy, and a short time in Denison
University, in Granville Ohio. From 1841 to 1845 he was engaged in the
mercantile business in company with his father under the firm name of J.W.
Baker & Co. And again from 1848 to 1851 with N.H. Jennings, under the
name of Baker & Jennings. From 1845 to 1858 he carried on the foundry
and machine business, corner of East Main and Medina (now Woodlawn) Streets.
From 1841 to 1845 he held the office of township clerk; 1845 and 6 he was
a member of the city council. From 1877 to 1882, he was deputy collector
of internal revenue, having the counties of Huron, Seneca, and Crawford
as his district. He has for many years been prominently connected with
the Baptist Church.
Mrs. Mary Higgins Gibbs Back to the
top
Was born in Bath, New York, May 17, 1826, the daughter of James Gilbert
Higgins. Her mother was Charlotte Townsend. In 1835 she came to Norwalk,
living with her grandfather, Rev. David Higgins, a pioneer Presbyterian
preacher and a Revolutionary Soldier. For a few years she lived in Ottawa,
Ill. and with her father enduring the countless privations of genuine pioneer
life. Her father died in 1840, and she returned to Norwalk, marrying here
in 1846, Ralph Marvin Gibbs (son of one of the earliest Norwalk settlers,
David Gibbs), who was born in 1824 and died suddenly of cholera in 1854,
leaving her a widow with four small children, three daughters and one son
- James G. Gibbs. She made her home with her sister, Mrs. Elizabeth H.
Farr, and until the death of Mrs. Farr in 1893, the two were inseparable
in works of religion, benevolence and temperance. For half a century she
has been a zealous member of the Presbyterian Church, and for as long she
has taught a class in Sunday school. For forty years she was a member of
the choir, most of the time as organist, leader, and as the principal soprano
singer of the town; her musical talent was always ready to respond to every
call of a public nature. For twenty years she has regularly conducted religious
services on Sunday in the jail; and in many other ways her time and talents
have been devoted to the good of others.
Elizabeth Higgins Farr Back to the
top
Was born in Bath N.Y. June 17 1823, and with a sister came to Norwalk in
1835, and was reared by her grandfather Rev. David Higgins, a pioneer minister.
In 1855, she married Joseph M. Farr, one of the founders of the Norwalk
Experiment. She was a life long member of the Presbyterian Church, and
was a faithful and beloved teacher in the Sunday school. As a worker in
the temperance cause, in the Relief Socierty, among the poor, and among
the unfortunate, the sick, the dying, in every walk of life, her labors
were constant and marked by that tender sympathy and that forgetfulness
of self which attested their genuineness. She died July 25, 1893.
Mrs EA Pitezel Back to the top
Miss Esther Ann Gibbs was born in Norwalk, Conn., April 21 1815. With her
parents, Samuel R. Gibbs, SR., and wife, and six children, herself included,
she came to Norwalk Ohio in June 1818, and settled on a farm in East Norwalk.
The family lived in several places but returned to Norwalk, where she became
a student in the old Norwalk Seminary. She was a teacher one year at the
Wyandot Mission. In 1836, she married Rev. George W. Breckenridge, and
spent 33 happy years with him in the itinerancy; blest with a family of
seven children, four boys and three girls, of whom one daughter and three
sons survive. She has lived in Norwalk now nearly twenty years. In 1887
she was married to Rev. J.H. Pitezel with whom in her quiet home she expects
to spend the remnant of her days. She has been a member of the Methodist
Episcopal Church for 62 years.
Mrs M.A. Corwin Back to the top
Is a daughter of the late Hon. Timothy Baker, one of the earliest pioneers
of Norwalk. She was educated at the old Norwalk Seminary when it was a
leading institution of the state. In 1840 she married Rev. Ira Corwin.
Mrs. Corwin has been a prominent leader in promoting the literary and social
culture of Norwalk, where she now resides at an advanced age, respected
and beloved by all who know her.
Charles E Newman Back to the top
Was born June 6, 1820 in Greene County, New York. He came to Norwalk in
1834 with his parents, who located upon a farm in Bronson township. He
attended the Norwalk schools, and when a young man devoted some attention
to teaching. In 1846 he embarked in mercantile pursuits in Norwalk and
continued in the same for many years. He at one time constructed the St.
Charles Hotel. September 15 1842, he married Mary Fay, who was born in
Norwalk, in 1821, her parents being among the first settlers. He was distinguished
for his earnest work in the church and Sunday school. He was one of the
most active members of the Fiorelands Pioneer Society, and took great interest
in its work. His life among us was well spent, and at his death Nov 14,
1887 many who cherished his friendship were left to mourn his departure.
Samuel F. Newman Back to the top
Samuel F. Newman was born July 10, 1826, at Greenville, Green County, New
York. IN 1834, he moved with his parents to Huron County, Ohio where he
received his education in the district school, augmented by a short course
at Baldwin's institute located at Berea O. After teaching district school
for five years, he was called to fill the chair of mathematics and natural
science in Norwalk Institute in 1852, teaching three years. He then taught
in the public schools until the year 1858. Resigning, he, with Rev. A.C.
Brainard, established the Western resreve Normal school at Milan O. Reverend
Brainard resigning after two years, Mr Newman conducted that school as
principal for 11 years. During that time over 1,000 teachers were educated.
In 1870 he returned to Norwalk and engaged in the insurance business he
now follows. In 1852 he was appointed county examiner of schools, a position
he has filled almost constantly since that time. He was a member of the
Norwalk City Council, and of the board of education, for several terms.
In 1860 Kenyon College granted him the honorary degree of A.M.
Col. C.L. Kennan Back to the top
Cortland L. Kennan is the son of Jaras and Charlotte E. (Gardiner) Kennan,
one of the pioneer families of Huron County, the father having taken up
his residence here in 1831. The son was born December 29, 1847. He was
educated in the public schools of Norwalk, and at Adelbert College, from
which he graduated in 1876. He afterwards studied law, and has been one
of the prominent members of the Huron County bar. Mr. Kennan has a decided
love for military affairs. In 1877 he joined Co. G, 16th Regt. O.N.G. He
was promoted rapidly and became First Lieutenant in 1882. In 1887 the company
was transferred to the 5th regiment and in 1887 he became Lieutenant Colonel.
He was elected as Colonel in 1893. Col. Kennan, as a commanding officer,
is regarded as one of the best in the National Guard.
Rev TF Hildreth AM DD Back to the
top
Is a native of Tompkins County N.Y. born November 19, 1826. He came with
his parents to Huron County in 1833. His education was obtained in the
country schools and at the old Norwalk seminary. He studied law in the
office of the Hon. Samuel T. Wooster, but before completing the course
necessary to admit him to the bar, he was licensed as a local preacher
in the M.E. Church. He occupied several leading appointments and had so
risen in prominence in 1864 that he was stationed at Trinity M.E. Church,
New York City. Failing health obliged his resignation of that charge, and
in 1867 he returned to Norwalk. A year later he was given charge of the
local M.E. Church. He has since held many pastorates of prominence in Michigan
and Ohio. Dr. Hildreth is a very eloquent speaker and few excel him as
a lecturer or pulpit orator. Having retired from active ministry, he now
lives in a quiet way in Norwalk. He retains a high degree of vigor of both
body and mind and his services in the pulpit or on the platform are much
sought.
Edward Evelyn Husted Back to the
top
Son of Samuel Husted, was born in Danbury, Conn., December 13 1805, and
came with his father to Clarksfield, Huron County, Ohio in 1810. He married
Deborah Gray, December 15, 1831. In 1841 Mr. Husted was elected Sheriff
of the County, and served two terms, receiving his first commission from
Thomas Corwin, and his second from Gov. Shannon. Afterwards, he held the
office of County Treasurer for two terms. For many years, Mr. Husted was
in the boot and shoe business with his brother-in-law, Erastus Gray, who
came to Norwalk in 1832. Mr. Husted died December 24 1878, his wife September
28 1884. They were active members of the Norwalk Congregational Church,
transferring their membership to that body soon after its organization.
To Mr. And Mrs. Husted were born ten children, seven of them living to
become, themselves, parents. For several years he was a member of the Union
School board, and always took an active part in whatever would advance
the best interests of Norwalk.
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