WILLIAM F. FULK.

One of the larger estates of Adams county that is not only a source of profit to its owner, but also an ornament to the county is that owned by William F. Fulk. The estate comprises an area of two hundred and. forty acres and is one of the most valuable in the county. It is one of the farms that were made from the wilderness, and its present condition of fertility and productiveness is attributable to the energy and toil of its owner. William Fulk was born in Trumbull county, Ohio, in 1S41. He is the son of Jacob and Susan (Kale) Fulk, both natives of Ohio. The elder Fulk was born on a farm in Trumbull county and his wife was also the child of farmer parents. In 1838 the couple were married and lived and died in Ohio. In addition to farming the husband worked at intervals at the trade of carpentering.

His son, the subject of this sketch, came to Indiana in 1865. His early life had been spent on the farm where he was born and he was educated in the schools of the neighborhood. He had no more advantages in educational or other lines than the average boy of the district and period, but he learned from his sturdy parents the lessons of self-denial and frugality that were such potent factors in advancing the fortunes of the early settlers of the central western states. After reaching Indiana he bought one hundred and sixty acres in section 35 of Kirkland township. This land was heavily timbered and it was necessary to clear it before it could become valuable. During the three succeeding winters after his original trip to this state he chopped away the trees and cleared the underbrush away. He spent his winters in Indiana and returned to Ohio in the spring, where he worked on his father's farm. The trips to Ohio were made on foot almost all of the way, Mr. Fulk being compelled to walk from Adams county to Fort Wayne or Van Wert, Ohio. Finally, in 1868, he settled permanently in Kirkland township and discontinued his trips to Ohio. The Indiana farm was not, when he settled on it, what might be said to be an attractive place. It was partly cleared, to be sure, owing to the toil of three winters, but it was far from being in an improved or highly productive state. However, the proposition confronting him had few terrors for him. He went to work manfully and with a determination to make his farm as good as any in his section of the county. It was not many years before he had his original tract of one hundred and sixty acres cleared, improved, drained and fitted with substantial buildings. Its cultivation after this period was a pleasure and the farm soon was the source of a comfortable and ample income. It was at about the time that he got his first purchase of land under cultivation that he began adding to its area. From time to time he made other purchases of land and finally found himself in possession of the large tract he owns today. As stated, this consists of two hundred and forty acres.

In the same year in which he took his permanent abode in Adams county Mr. Fulk married Miss Emma Sovine, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Sovine. Her father was a native of France and her mother, whose maiden name was Shaffter, was born in the Swiss republic. Both of Mrs. Fulk's parents came to this country in the early years of the nineteenth century and settled in Kirkland township, where they purchased land and followed farming. They were eminently successful and accumulated a handsome property.

In the years following their marriage six children came to bless the Fulk home, of whom three are still living. The children were named: William Edward, John H., Peter L., Charles. Two infants died unnamed.

Mr. Fulk is numbered among the most successful men of Adams county. He possesses a rugged dignity that recommends him to all who know him, and his integrity is of a very high order. He is a man who is alive to all matters that make for the advancement of the interests of his community, and is in the van of such movements that are for the betterment of his own and neighbors' condition. He is a Democrat, but seldom takes any active part in political matters.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 427 (image 873).


EZRA E. ZIMMMERMAN.

Among the men of Adams county who are gaining reputations as breeders of fine stock that of Ezra E. Zimmerman takes a prominent place. He is making a success of this business and combines it profitably with the regular business of farming. He was born in Kirkland township, Adams county, March 23, 1864. His father was Peter Zimmerman, a native of Berks county, Pennsylvania, where he was born in 1836, and his mother was a native of Adams county. As early as 1856 his father came to Adams county and purchased eighty acres of land in Kirkland township. At other times he added to this original purchase until he owned a total of two hundred acres. When purchased almost all of this land was in a wild state and had to be cleared before it could be cultivated. Some time after he reached Adams county he followed his trade of carpentering, varying this work with that of clearing his homestead. In time he had his land cleared and under a good stage of cultivation. He died in 1880, leaving a widow and eight children, of whom Ezra was the eldest. Upon the death of his father much of the responsibilities and operation of the farm fell to this young man. He discharged his obligations faithfully and well, and added many improvements to the place that had not been made during his father's life

When he was twenty-two years of age he decided to branch out for himself. In the fall of the year in which he reached this decision he married Miss Eliza Pierce, a daughter of Reuben and Elizabeth (Showalter) Pierce. His wife's father came to Indiana from New Hampshire by the way of Virginia. He was born in New Hampshire in 1821and he married in West Virginia Miss Showalter, who was born in 1824. After marriage they moved to Curryville, Indiana , in 1879, where Mr. Pierce was engaged in the mercantile business and in addition operated a saw mill. His death occurred in 1903 and that of his wife in 1900.

The farm that was purchased by Ezra Zimmerman in 1886 was unimproved and covered with heavy timber. He began clearing the land and after some time succeeded in bringing his land under cultivation and removing all of the timber that encumbered it. He fenced his land and drained and ditched it. He erected a comfortable and attractive residence and other buildings and made of the farm one of the neatest and most productive places in the county. To his energy and ingenuity all of his success is directly attributable. What he has accomplished and gained in the matter of the world's wealth he gained through his own unaided efforts and made his competency through excellent management and foresight.

As noted above throughout his career as a farmer he has been an admirer of fine stock. In line with this fancy he has added the raising of stock to his work as a farmer. During the last eight years he has been a feeder of cattle and hogs for the market and his products demand the top price wherever they are exposed for sale. His annual shipments are about three to five cars. In connection with the stock-raising business on his own estate he owns another farm in the county in partnership with his brother. On this farm the brothers are feeding and shipping stock for the market.

Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Zimmerman. These are: James R. and Charles F. James, although but eighteen years of age, has taught two terms in the county schools and is a fine, ambitious youth. Mr. Zimmerman is one of the progressive men of his district. He takes an active part in the advancement of his county and is considered one of the substantial men of the community in which he lives. He votes the Democratic ticket, but is not an aggressive politician, discharging his duties as a citizen, but taking no active part in the work of his political fellows. He and his wife are members of the German Baptist church and are active in the affairs and interests of this denomination. Both are among the most highly esteemed people of the county.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 425 (image 869).


JAMES A. STEEL.

At an age when the average boy of today is either engaged in his school work or at least still living under the care and gentle influences of his home James A. Steel was striking out for himself and beginning a career of independence that has brought him success as measured by the commercial standards of the world and gained for him the esteem and confidence of his fellows. He was born in Kirkland township, Adams county, Indiana, August 1, 1850. He was the son of Samuel Steel, concerning whom mention is made in the sketch of David Steel on another page of this volume. His father died before James had grown to be a very big boy, and the youngster started from his home at sixteen years of age to carve his own way. For the following four years he worked at various kinds of employment and at twenty years of age went into the saw mill business for himself at Peterson. He followed this business for the next three years and then sold out and purchased one half of the original estate of his father. This was a tract of eighty acres and he lived on it and farmed it.

In September, 1872, he married Miss Victoria LeBrun, a daughter of August and Mary (Bainey) LeBrun. She was a model wife and descended from resourceful people. Her parents were natives of France and came to this country in 1842. Her father was born in 1818 and her mother in 1816. After reaching this country her parents lived for a time in New York . They were attracted by the reports that came to them from Indiana and decided to venture west and establish themselves in the new state. Accordingly they came to Indiana and purchased eighty acres of land in Kirkland township. This farm they cleared and improved and later sold it and bought other land south of Decatur. This tract was their home until the death of August LeBrun, when his widow disposed of the estate and removed to Decatur, where she made her home with her son until her death at ninety years, December 24, 1906.

The farm that James Steel first purchased was not a very inviting place. There were only about twenty-five acres cleared and there was much of it under water and very swampy. Nothing daunted by these conditions and the absence of any improvements, he tackled his hard proposition and conquered it. He was a skillful farmer and a practical man and in time cleared other acres and reclaimed the portion of the farm that was submerged by a system of ditching and tiling. Each year found him in more independent circumstances, and the latter years have brought him complete independence. His farm today is highly improved and is a fine example of what may be achieved through perseverance and honest effort. The residence occupied by Mr. Steel and his family is of modern and most convenient type and his barns and outbuildings are well calculated to meet the purposes for which they were designed. Although this farm is not one of the largest in the township, it takes exceedingly high rank in the matters of productiveness and fertility. During the years Mr. and Mrs. Steel struggled to make their home in the wilderness eight children came to bless their union. Of these seven are still living. The names of these children are: Mary S., Cora M., Rosa B., George C., Bessie A., wife of Homer Andrews; Celia F. and Earl E. Ezra died some years ago. All of the living children are at home with the exception of Rosa, who is married to Melvin Welker. The mother of these children, who was born August 6, 1848, died at the home of her husband, February 7, 1905.

However, Mr. Steel has found time for other business than that of farming. Eight years ago he took up the business of cement and stone work and has done work of this kind all over the county. He has done much work for the Standard Oil Company. He is a Democrat so far as politics are concerned, but it cannot be said that he is an active partisan. He and his family are numbered among the most highly respected people of the county, and he takes a live interest in all things that are slated to improve the condition of his county and state. March 23, 1907, Mr. Steel was married a second time, when Mary M. Merryman became his wife. She is a native of Adams county, being a daughter of Zachariah Merryman.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 424 (image 867).


JACOB BORNE.

Jacob Borne is a good type of the successful member of the second generation of German families, the fathers and mothers of which came from the fatherland to make new homes in the western republic. He was born in Germany June 27, 1850, and came with his parents to this country when less than two years old. His father was Jacob Borne and his mother was Mary E. (Sherry) Borne. They were examples of a hardy German line of ancestors, who had tilled the soil for generations. Believing that the new land offered greater opportunities for them and for their children, they severed their home ties and turning their backs on traditions centuries old, made their way across the Atlantic and settled on a farm in Preble township, Adams county, Indiana. This farm consisted of forty acres covered with timber. The elder Borne was a painstaking and industrious farmer and it was not long before he had his farm cleared, improved and under cultivation. Being of a speculative turn of mind, he believed that others would want farms soon and he bought other tracts. These he sold from time to time at a profit and for several years engaged in the business of buying and selling farms as well as directing the work of cultivating his own. He was a successful general farmer and his crops were satisfactory. He farmed until his death about the year 1898 and left a patrimony that meant a comfortable future life for his widow and family. His wife lived until 1905. Jacob Borne, the elder, was a strong supporter of the principles of Democracy and took an interest in the affairs of his party in his district. He was a member of the German Reformed church until his death. He was survived by six children out of a family of ten. The children born to him were named Jacob, Henry, deceased; Sophia, Lasetta, deceased; Adam, deceased; Christ, Mary, Louise, Daniel, deceased; and Susanna.

Jacob Borne, the subject of this sketch, was the eldest of this family of children. He was an industrious young man and assisted his father in the work on the farm and did his share toward building up the fortunes of the family. In his youth he secured a fair education in the district schools of Preble township and supplemented this learning with the practical lessons he secured on his father's farm. When he grew to manhood he married Mina E. Bottlemeyer, a daughter of Henry and Mary S. (Henschen) Bottlemeyer. The wedding was solemnized August 17, 1876. His wife's father and mother were natives of Germany, who came to this country early in the last century. For a time they lived in New York state and then came west to Fort Wayne, Indiana . They lived in this city for several years and then moved to Adams county, where they secured a farm in Preble township. This farm they improved and it is still their home.

Following his marriage Jacob Borne settled on his father's farm, the management of which had been turned over to him. He made many greater improvements on it as time passed and brought it up to a high state of productiveness. He was a thorough believer in modern methods and he used these in prosecuting his agricultural labors. His tenacity of purpose surmounted all obstacles and he gained a competence. He took an interested part in the affairs of his section of the state and as a member of the Democratic party served his fellow residents of Adams county as a supervisor for a number of years. He is a member of the German Reformed church and gives this organization his financial as well as his moral support. His home is one of the pleasantest in the township, and both he and his wife are among the most highly esteemed people of the district. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Borne. Those living are: Mary A., Minnie S., John H., and Rudolph W. Those dead are: August C., Emma S. and an infant that died unnamed.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 423 (image 865).


WILLIAM BERGER.

Farming has constituted the life work of William Berger, the subject of this sketch, and by devoting himself and his entire energies to this one line of employment he has achieved a degree of success that is a distinctive credit to himself. He is the son of Nicholas and Susanna (Smith) Berger. His parents were natives of Switzerland and came to the United States in about the year 1847. They made their first home in the western republic in Stark county, Ohio , where William was born, April 18, 1851. Two years after the birth of their son the elder Bergers removed from Ohio to Indiana. They settled on property at Vera Cruz, Wells county, Indiana. For the following sixteen years the family continued to live at this place and then moved to Adams county. On reaching this county Nicholas Berger purchased one hundred and twenty acres of land in Kirkland township. This land was in practically a wild state there being no improvements of any practical nature. The years immediately succeeding the arrival of the Bergers in Adams county were filled with the most arduous toil. The land that had been purchased was uncleared and the work of making it habitable and sustaining was a great task. However, the wills of the members of the family were strong and each contributed what he could to the labor that became necessary. As in the cases of many similar families, whose efforts toward making new homes in the new country were earnestly and intelligently directed, reward came to the Bergers. It was comparatively but a short time before the land was cleared and the crops following each other with regularity and profit. Naturally this brought funds to the family treasury and the necessities of life were thenceforth guaranteed. Desirous of owning more land and being of a speculative mind, Mr. Berger purchased an additional one hundred and sixty acres in another part of the township and still later bought forty-three acres adjoining his original purchase of one hundred and twenty acres. At the time he purchased these last acres his original farm was in a highly improved state. The entire estate was well drained with many rods of tiling, ditches had been cut wherever necessary and the residence and barn together with other buildings for housing stock and storing farm products were of the most modern and most practical types. Mr. Berger lived on his homestead until his death in 1896 and before he closed his eyes on worldly things he had the pleasure of owning one of the most magnificent estates in Adams county. His wife died in 1870.

William Berger, the son of this industrious pioneer, was raised in a most wholesome environment. To be sure, he knew what hard work meant, but he also knew that honest toil cannot fail of its reward. This fact was brought home to him in the contemplation of his father's career. His early life was spent on his father's farm, where he assisted in the cultivation of the large tract. His school days were all contained within two weeks. He lived on his father's estate until his marriage, which occurred to Miss Emaline Billman, September 18, 1879. His wife was the daughter of Henry and Mary (Zimmerman) Billman. Her father was born on a farm in Schuylkill county, Pennsylvania, in 1830, and her mother in Bucks county, Pennsylvania , April 28, 1831. This couple came to Adams county in 1855 and settled on a farm of eighty acres in Kirkland township. Some time afterward Mr. Billman purchased an additional one hundred and twenty acres abutting on his first purchase, and with his wife lived on this farm until 1880, which year their deaths occurred. Mr. Billman died February 25th and his wife passed away November 9th.

Soon after his marriage William Berger rented land and farmed it for about four years. This was a tract of eighty acres in section 9 of Kirkland township, and was his first home after leaving his father's farm. In 1882 he bought a tract of the same area in the same township and in 1883 moved to it. The land was rough and the house was of mud and the stable of logs. But to his hardy spirit this condition meant nothing that was discouraging. He knew how to develop land and to make it productive, and soon had erected a fine home and barn and brought his land to a high stage of fertility and productiveness. Later he added another eighty acres and now owns the entire tract of one hundred and sixty acres.

Mr. and Mrs. Berger are the parents of four children, all of whom are living. These children are: Catherine A., Elizabeth M., Mary E. and Sarah J. Mr. Berger is one of the most highly respected men in his community, and one whose advice is frequently sought. He is not a party man as far as politics are concerned, but exercises a right to vote independently. In view of this he is to be found on the side of the man who, in his opinion, is best qualified to serve the people. He and his family are members of the German Baptist church and accord this denomination their hearty and substantial support.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 421 (image 861).


JACOB RICHARD GRABER.

There is, in all probability, no man among the residents of Adams county who can lay any claim more justly for consideration at the hands of his fellow residents of the county than can J. R. Graber. He is a man and citizen who has been before his fellows for many years in public capacities and has won admiration and esteem for his fearlessness of purpose and his honesty of life. He was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania , January 6, 1849. He is a son of Jacob R. and Hannah (Richard) Graber. His father was born in France in 1818 and came to the United States with his parents when nine years of age. His parents settled for a time in New York and then removed to Lancaster county. The grandfather of the subject of this sketch was Daniel Graber, who lived in France and who died there when a comparatively young man. His grandfather on his mother's side was Jacob Richard, of Wittenberg-Stukard, Germany. He was a millwright by trade and lived to the unusual age of one hundred and three. His wife was more remarkable as an example of longevity. She lived until she was one hundred and seven years old. His mother's family came to this country in 1800 and settled in Pennsylvania . Later they removed to Stark county, Ohio. When the subject of this sketch was nine years of age his parents left Pennsylvania and removed to Indiana. They settled on a farm bordering the St. Joe river eleven miles north of the present site of the city of Fort Wayne. They secured their land in 1858 and improved it as the years passed. His father followed farming and. was a successful man. He was a devout member of the Mennonite church and was a preacher of this denomination for forty-eight years.

J. R. Graber spent his boyhood on his father's farm in Allen county. He received as good an education as was possible in the country schools of the period. Pie learned the lessons of a farmer's life on his father's homestead and became in time a successful and resourceful tiller of the soil. In 1871 he purchased a tract of land in French township, Adams county, and commenced to till the soil on his own responsibility. He improved his land and under his efficient direction and able management it became one of the finest estates in the county. He improved it and erected suitable and commodious buildings. He lived on this tract until he was selected to manage and conduct the county poor farm. This place he took charge of December 8, 1895. The Adams county poor farm is a large tract containing two hundred and seventy acres. When Mr. Graber became superintendent of the farm he set to work to make it a model establishment of its kind in the state. The building of the house or infirmary cost thirty-three thousand and sixty-six dollars, but is worth much more than this today. Under the able management of Mr. Graber the county farm has been materially improved. He has devoted all of his time and attention to his work and has discharged his obligations to the citizens of Adams county with intelligence and to their entire satisfaction.

The marriage of Mr. Graber and Miss Lydia Schlather was solemnized in 1871. On September 10th of that year he purchased his farm containing one hundred and twenty-two and one-half acres situated in French township. His wife is a daughter of Joseph and Lizzie (Augsburger) Schlather. Her father was born in France and came as a youth to this country. He first lived in Pennsylvania and later removed to Ohio. He came among the earlier settlers to Indiana. Mrs. Graber was born in Adams county, January 7, 1849. Five children have come to bless this union: Joseph, living in French township; Lucy, the wife of Ephraim Hirschy, a farmer of Beaver county, Oklahoma; Albert, connected with the Schaffer Hardware Company of Decatur, and who taught school for five years before his marriage; Lizzie and John H., both at home with their parents. The mother of Mr. Graber is still living in excellent health in Daviess county, Indiana.

Mr. Graber is in all sense a successful man. He has earned what he has of the world's goods by his own efforts and can look back on a career full of benefit to his fellow men with satisfaction. He is highly esteemed and whether as a citizen or as an official he has always lived an exemplary life. He and his wife are esteemed members of the Mennonite church and contribute generously and heartily to the aims and objectives of this denomination.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 418 (image 855).


JOHN P. BECKER.

There is a ringing note of perseverance and indomitable courage about the life of John P. Becker that marks it apart from many lives that have been contemporary with it. The man himself is as fine an example of courage and determination as could be met in all northeastern Indiana, and his achievements show that there is but little that cannot be accomplished if a will is behind efforts made toward success. Although Mr. Becker is now one of the prosperous and successful farmers of Adams county, he was twenty-five years of age before he had ever split a stick of wood or harnessed a horse. He was born in Schaffhausen, Kreis, Saarlouis, Prussia, Germany, August 30, 1839. He is a son of Morris and Ann a (Tanner) Becker. His parents lived and died in the fatherland. John spent his youth and young manhood with his parents in his quaint native German village. He was educated in the public schools. When fifteen years old he commenced work in the coal mines one thousand feet below the surface of the earth, and was variously employed, and served three years as a soldier in the German army until he reached his twenty-fourth year. At this time he decided to emigrate to America . Accordingly he severed the ties that bound him to the fatherland and setting his face toward the sinking sun, sought his fortune in a strange land, among strange people. He landed in the United States in 1865 and pushed westward to Ohio. His first stopping place was in Stark county, but after a short residence in this county he came on to Summit county, Ohio. Here he resided, following the occupation of a farmer until 1878, when he moved to Indiana and settled in Adams county. He purchased land in Washington township within three miles of Decatur. This land was covered with a heavy growth of timber and had been owned by fourteen different people before it came into his possession.

It is doubtful if there was a more uninviting piece of land in the entire county than that purchased by John Becker when it came into his possession. Fourteen owners had tried to make it productive and had failed. They in turn gave it up and sought more favorable locations. This was anything but an encouraging prospect for a young man who had worked almost all of his life in the coal mines of his native land and had had but a comparatively few years of practical farming experience. However, it is just here that the indomitable will of John Becker asserted itself. He viewed his land and realized that a titanic work lay before him before it could be made productive and profitable. But he knew that it could be made productive and profitable if sufficient labor and energy were devoted to the task. He also realized that he possessed the determination and the energy to conquer this difficult proposition and he set to work to do it. The admirable state of his farm today, with its broad acres, well cleared and yielding excellent crops, attest in large and convincing measure the industry and perseverance of John Becker.

In the same year in which he came to the United States Mr. Becker was married to Miss Mary Luxenburger. She was also born in Germany and is a daughter of Michael and Katherine (Rupp) Luxenburger. They died in Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Becker have become the parents of twelve children. All of these children are living with the exception of a son, William, who died in his infancy. Those living are: Katie, Anna, John, Morris, Maggie, Matthias, Mary, Joseph, Frank Tiny and Frederick.

The farm that is now owned and operated by Mr. Becker consists of one hundred and thirty-one acres. Of this amount one hundred and twenty acres are cleared and under cultivation. The remaining ten acres are in timber and pasturage. In addition to a general farming business Mr. Becker raises a good quality of Duroc swine and cattle. He raises cattle and swine for the market and feeds the greater share of his farm products to his stock. He has his place well fenced and drained and the buildings he has erected are comfortable. In politics he is a Democrat and has served as a township supervisor. He is a member of the Roman Catholic church and a consistent supporter of this faith.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 417 (image 853).


NEWTON H. McCLAIN.

Newton H. McClain was born in Adams county, Indiana, December 4, 1857. He is a son of John and Maria (Souslin) McClain. His father was born in Licking county, Ohio, November 4, 1841, and his mother was a native of Indiana . He was the youngest of his father's children by his second marriage and grew to manhood on his father's farm in Monroe township. He was educated in the schools of his neighborhood and learned the wholesome lessons a life on a farm teaches. As a young man he assisted his father in the cultivation of his farm and when he grew to maturity engaged in farming for himself.

In 1884 Mr. McClain was united in marriage to Miss Sylvia E. Harris, who was born in Knox county, Ohio, and who came to Indiana and settled in Adams county with her parents in 1864. She is a daughter of Thomas P. and Eliza (Poterfield) Harris. After her parents came to Adams county they followed the occupation of farmers for a short time. Her father opened a store in Berne and did a general merchandizing business for the farmers of the neighborhood during the year 1871. This store was the first opened and operated in Berne. It was established before the railroad had entered the little village. He conducted his general store for one year and then returned to his farm. After residing six years on his farm he went to Decatur, where he was employed in a store for two years. Returning to his farm, he spent the next six years in its cultivation and then removed to Henry county, Indiana, where he lived until his death in 1905. He and his wife became the parents of a family of six children, all of whom are still living.

Mr. and Mrs. McClain are the parents of five children. These children are: Melda M., Eva J., the wife of Edward W. Tumbelson; Nora G., attending school; Paul H., also attending school, and Luella.

Mr. McClain is the owner of one hundred and forty-seven and three-quarters acres of excellent land. Almost all of the land is under profitable cultivation. He allows sixteen acres to remain in timber and pasture land and cultivates the rest. He is a progressive man and one who appreciates the benefits of modern methods and ideas. He employs these methods and ideas in the cultivation of his tract and has made of it one of the most attractive in the township, as well as one of the most valuable. He raises cattle and swine for the market and his strains of cattle and Duroc swine are among the best in the township. In addition he raises a fine breed of Norman and Belgian horses. His crops are always large and he feeds the greater part of the products of his farm to his stock. His place is well improved and thoroughly drained. He has laid in all about sixteen hundred rods of tiling and has fenced his entire property. He is a member of the Republican party, but has never sought or held public office. He is a member of the Berne Lodge, No. 208, Knights of Pythias, and of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 416 (image 851).


JOHN S. McCLAIN.

John S. McClain is numbered among the most successful men and most prosperous fanners of Monroe township, Adams county. He is a native of Ohio, being born in Licking county of that state, November 4, 1841. He is a son of John and Mary (Stephenson) McClain. His father was born in Pennsylvania in 1808, and his mother was born in Ohio in 1811. When John McClain, the father of the subject of this sketch, was still a young boy he removed with his father, Arthur McClain, and his mother to Ohio . The family first located in Richland county, but after a few years removed to Knox county. Following the death in this latter county of Arthur McClain his son John removed to Licking county. About this time he married Mary Stephenson and lived in Licking county on a farm until 1852, when he removed to Indiana. When John McClain came to Indiana he settled in Adams county. He took up farming in Monroe township. He settled tract of wild land and after some years of arduous toil succeeded in clearing the greater portion of it and in bringing it under cultivation. His first wife died before he came to Indiana, in April, 1848, and he married again. By his first marriage he had seven children: Ann a, Arthur, Margaret J., John S., Cynthia E., William and a child that died unnamed in infancy. His second wife was Maria E. Sousalin and she became the mother of three children. These children are: Mary L, Caroline L. and Newton H. John McClain lived on his farm until his death, February 27, 1894.

The youth of John S. McClain was spent on his father's farm in Monroe township. He attended the winter sessions of the schools of his neighborhood and secured as good an education as was possible under the circumstances. He assisted in the cultivation of his father's estate until he reached his majority. At the time of this event the country was ringing with calls to arms in defense of the Union. The fever of war got in the veins of young McClain and he hurried to the defense of his country's flag. He enlisted in Company I, Eighty-ninth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, which regiment was attached to the Sixteenth Army Corps, and he saw nearly three years of service. His command took part in many fierce engagements and was present at the battles of Mumfordsville, Fort Derusse, Pleasant Hill and Yellow Bayou, Louisiana; Tupelo, Mississippi; Nashville, Tennessee , and Fort Blakley, Alabama. He was finally mustered out of the Federal service with his regiment in 1865.

After the close of the war Mr. McClain returned to his home in Monroe township and remained there for some years, managing and cultivating the family homestead. With the exception of a year spent in the hardware business at Berne, Adams county, and one year spent in Iowa and Nebraska, he has always resided in Adams county and operated the family's original farm, a part of which he now owns. He has always followed farming, the only interruptions to this pursuit being the time he spent in Berne and in the west and two terms when he taught school in Monroe township. His present estate is a fine farm of eighty acres in section 26 of Monroe township. It is most admirably located and is very fertile. The tract was originally entered by the father of the present owner from the government in 1839, although the original owner did not remove to it until 1852. The original patent deed to the land is in the possession of Mr. John S. McClain. He is a public-spirited man and takes a live interest in the affairs of his township. He votes the Republican ticket, but has not held or aspired to public office. He is a progressive man and believes in applying modern methods and ideas to the cultivation of his farm, and his crops are always profitable.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 415 (image 849).


CHRISTIAN C. BEER.

Christian C. Beer is a native of Adams county, being born in that section of Indiana, August 30, 1866. He is one of the most highly esteemed and best known men, of his township. He is a son of Christian and Barbara (Dubach) Beer. His parents were born in Germany and emigrated to the United States and settled in Adams county when the county was but thinly settled. After reaching the United States they lived a few years in Ohio and followed the occupation of farming. However, they believed their fortunes would be bettered by removing to Indiana, and accordingly they came to this state. The father of the subject of this sketch followed farming all of his life in this country and in time he possessed a good farm, which he has cleared and improved. He is now living in Berne. His wife died in 1898. He and his wife became the parents of a family of eleven children and of this large family eight are still living.

The youth of Christian C. Beer was spent on his father's farm in Monroe township. He was educated in the common schools of the neighborhood, and was an apt and diligent pupil. He spent the winter months in the school and during the milder months of the year assisted his father in improving and cultivating his farm. He contributed his share to the work on the home farm from the time he was old enough to do any farm work. He was a dutiful son and took many of the cares and burdens of the farm from the shoulders of his parents. He lived on the home place until he grew to manhood.

The marriage of Christian Beer and Miss Sarah Ellenberger was solemnized in Adams county in 1888. Mrs. Beer is a daughter of Henry and Katie (Baumgartner) Ellenberger. Her father was a native of Adams county and with his wife settled in Monroe township among the first settlers to enter this section of the county. His wife's parents are still living in Berne . Mr. and Mrs. Beer have become the parents of twelve children: Harvey, Lavina, Caroline, Delia, Lillie Ruffina, Dora, Ermine, Roselle, Jesse, Edna and Elmer.

Mr. Beer has lived on his present place, which is located three miles north of Berne, for the last fourteen years. It is a good farm of eighty acres, seventy of which are under cultivation. The place is well improved and is a very productive estate. The land has been much improved since it came into the possession of the present owner, and he has added much tiling and bettered the buildings and fencing. His home is a fine brick residence that is a model of its kind, and his outbuildings are good and commodious. Recently he erected a large new barn on his place. In addition to a general farming business he is a buyer of stock and buys for Elmer Johnson, of Decatur. He has bought horses for the last four years and has been uniformly successful. He is a member of the Democratic party, but of no fraternal bodies. He gives his allegiance and support to the Reformed church of his neighborhood and is in all respects a model citizen. He is highly esteemed and has hosts of friends and acquaintances, who have entire confidence in his judgment and who admire his abilities.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 413 (image 845).


SYLVESTER C. TINKHAM.

Sylvester C. Tinkham is a native of Adams county and was born in Blue Creek township, July 12, 1858. He is a son of Dennison and Margaret (Scoles) Tinkham. His father was born in Vermont and came to Ohio with his parents and located near Columbus. His father was a farmer. Mary Tinkham was the daughter of early settlers in Ohio and was born in Knox county. After his marriage in Ohio, Dennison Tinkham removed to Indiana with his wife. He settled in Adams county in 1934. The county was almost all wild land at this time and game and Indians were common. The elder Tinkham shot deer, wolves and bears on the site of his present property. The nearest trading point was Fort Wayne, and Dennison Tinkham hauled his produce to this city to find a market. In time he succeeded in clearing his farm and in making it one of the best and most valuable in Blue Creek township. His wife is since dead, but he is still living in Blue Creek township at the advanced age of ninety-three years. Mr. and Mrs. Dennison Tinkham became the parents of ten children, seven of whom are still living. These children are: J. W., Lorenzo, William, Francis, Sylvester C, Rebecca and Elizabeth.

The youth of the subject of this sketch was spent on his father's farm in Blue Creek township. He attended the sessions of the rude schools of the neighborhood and secured as complete an education as was possible under the circumstances. He was an industrious youth and a dutiful son. He learned the wholesome lessons to be learned on a farm and applied these lessons to his profit in his after life. He lived on his father's farm and assisted in its cultivation until he grew to manhood.

Mr. Tinkham was married in 1894 to Miss Phoebe Murray. His wife is a native of Adams county and a daughter of Horatio Murray, who was among the oldest settlers in the northeastern section of Indiana. Her parents lived in St. Mary's township for many years, where they followed the occupation of farming, and then removed to Decatur. Mr. and Mrs. Tinkham are the parents of three children. The eldest of this family, Floyd, died some years ago. Alta G. and Dewitt are still living at home with their parents.

The present farm owned and occupied by Mr. Tinkham is a fine tract of one hundred and fifty-seven acres. He came into possession of it about thirteen years ago and has resided on it continuously since. Of the total acreage one hundred and thirty acres are under cultivation. The land is exceedingly fertile and it has been improved until it is a valuable and profitable property. The land is well drained and substantially fenced and the buildings are attractive and comfortable. A general farming business is carried on by Mr. Tinkham and he raises some good breeds of swine. Mr. Tinkham is a man of much public spirit. He takes a live and intelligent interest in all matters affecting the prosperity and welfare of his home township and is a leader in movements for the advancement of the commercial and industrial growth of the county. He is not affiliated with any fraternal body, but with his wife is an ardent and consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church. He is active in the work of this church and contributes generously to its support.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 411 (image 841).


OTHOLIC NELSON TYNDALL.

O. N. Tyndall, one of the best-known farmers of Blue Creek township, was an educator before he adopted the life of a farmer. In this latter calling he gained distinction and was also one of the most popular teachers of his city. He was born in Blue Creek township of Adams county, April 21, 1863. He is a son of John C. and Rachael (Wagers) Tyndall. His father was a native of Crawford county, Ohio, and his mother was born in Van Wert county of the same state. His father and mother came to Adams county in 1S52 and settled on a farm that was practically in the woods. They cleared their estate and farmed it for a number of years. Late in life John C. Tyndall practiced law and gained an enviable reputation as a member of this profession. His wife died in 1867 and he survived her until 1885. John and Rachael Tyndall became the parents of six children: Eliza J., William J., Mary C, J. W. of Decatur; O. N. and Nancy, who died in infancy. After the death of his first wife John Tyndall was married for the second time to Miss Athia A. Campbell. Ten children were born of this union. These were named: Alice J., Lizzie, Joseph, deceased; George M., James T., Margaret, Belle, Perry, Maude and Esther.

The youth of the subject of this sketch was spent on his father's farm in Blue Creek township. He received his preliminary education in the common schools of his neighborhood and progressed satisfactorily. He decided to adopt the profession of teaching and accordingly after he completed his common school education he entered the normal college at Valparaiso, Indiana . He spent four years in this educational institution and graduated from it in 1885. After his graduation he returned to Decatur and began teaching. He taught through successive grades of the Decatur schools, and was the first principal of the west ward school of Decatur . In all he taught twenty-one years. He resided in Decatur for ten years and while he was city engineer put down the first crushed stone street in that city. Following the close of his work as a teacher Mr. Tyndall removed to a farm in Blue Creek township, which he had previously purchased. He has been living on his farm for the last ten years, although he has been the owner of it for twenty-two years.

He was married in 1890 to Miss Ann a M. Wechter, a daughter of Jacob and Mary (Clancy) Wechter. Mr. and Mrs. Tyndall are the parents of one child, a daughter, Frances, who is living at home keeping house for her father.

The farm owned and operated by Mr. Tyndall is a fine place of eighty acres. It is well improved and all but ten acres are under cultivation. He carries on a general farming business and is a successful man. He raises a mixed breed of swine and disposes of them at a profit. When he purchased his farm only about half of it was improved and cleared. He has improved and cleared the remainder and has it now at a high stage of profitable cultivation. It is excellently drained and fenced and the farm buildings are adequate and commodious. Mr. Tyndall is a Democrat in politics and has served in public capacities with much credit to himself. He was deputy county surveyor for six years and has served his fellow residents of Blue Creek township in other valuable manners. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and attends the Methodist Episcopal church.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 410 (image 839).


FRANK ARNOLD.

Late in the first half of the last century the parents of Frank Arnold, around whom the interest in this sketch centers, journeyed from their home in Germany and settled in Indiana. They were August and Augusta (Jann) Arnold and were born and married in Hanover, Saxony , Germany . Their son, Frank Arnold, was born in Hanover, November 14. 1840, and was nine years of age when his parents settled on a farm in Wells county, Indiana, in 1849. They lived in Wells county about eighteen months then sold their farm and removed to Adams county. Land was purchased in Kirkland township. August Arnold lived about ten years in Adams county and died aged forty-five years. His wife survived until 1902, when she died

The years that immediately followed the removal of the Arnold family from Germany were filled with arduous toil. Their land in Adams county was rough and demanded that much labor be expended before it could be made productive. However, the difficulties were overcome and the land in time became profitable. The youth of Frank Arnold after coming to the United States was spent on his father's farm. He secured a meager education in the log cabin school of his immediate neighborhood and progressed satisfactorily in his studies. During the milder months of the year he assisted his father in clearing and improving his farm and was a dutiful and industrious son. He was the eldest of his parents' family of six children and naturally more responsibilities fell on him than upon the others. His father's family consisted of the following children: Frank, Melina, Charles, deceased; William, Lewis and Allie, deceased.

When the Civil war was engaging the entire country in a fearful struggle Frank Arnold answered a call for volunteers to help preserve the Union . He enlisted in Company C, One Hundred and Forty-second Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served with this command until he was mustered out of the service in 1865. His regiment was attached to the Army of the Tennessee and he saw much actual warfare. After his discharge he returned to Indiana and purchasing a tract of land in Kirkland township, in Adams county, took up the life of a farmer where the demands of war had interrupted it.

Two years after the close of the war, in 1867, Mr. Arnold was married to Miss Susanna Berger. His wife was a native of Massillon, Ohio , and a daughter of Nicholas Berger, who, with his wife, were among the older settlers in Adams county. She is a member of a family of six children born to her parents. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Frank Arnold. These children are: Albert, William, Charles, Sarah, Rosa and Edward. All live in Adams county.

Measured by a number of standards, Mr. Arnold is a successful man. Since he began living in Kirkland township he has engaged in a general farming business. He owns a fine farm of one hundred and twenty acres, all of which is under cultivation, and raises Durham cattle and a good brand of swine. He appreciates the value of modern methods and applies them in the cultivation of his estate. All of his land is well ditched and drained and the fencing and buildings are substantial and suitable. In addition to his general farming business he operated a saw mill for about ten years and a threshing machine business for about eight years. All of his ventures have proved eminently successful and profitable. He is a man who takes an active interest in the affairs of his township and county and has served a term of two years in the important office of township supervisor. He is affiliated with the Republican party and is active in the work of this party in his section of Adams county. With his wife he is a member of the German Reformed church.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 408 (image 835).


JAMES McCUNE.

James McCune, one of the successful farmers of Monroe township and a representative citizen of Adams county, was born in Rush county, Indiana, August 3, 1840. He is a son of John and Mary (Aspy) McCune. His father was a native of Kentucky and was born in that state in 1812. His mother was born in Holmes county, Ohio , in 1811. The boyhood of John McCune was spent in Kentucky. When still a youth he removed with his father and his family to Fayette county, Indiana. He was educated in the schools of Favette county and lived on his father's farm in this section of the state until he grew to manhood. Following the death of his father John McCune removed with his wife to Hancock county, Indiana. He lived in this county and in Rush county for a short time and then returned to Fayette county. He purchased a farm in this latter county, which is now included in the corporation limits of the city of Connersville. He lived on this Fayette county farm until 1844, when he sold it and removed to Adams county, Indiana. After reaching northeastern Indiana he bought a farm in section 26 of Monroe township, Adams county, and operated this farm until his death in 1873. John McCune took an active part in the affairs of his community. In his early life he was a Whig and after the launching of the Republican party as the successor of the Whig party he affiliated with that organization. He was a member of the Monroe township board of trustees when the membership consisted of three to a township. He was not affiliated with any fraternal organization and was a staunch and generous member of the Christian church. He and his wife became the parents of twelve children, six of whom are still living. Mrs. John McCune survived her husband one year and died on the family homestead in Monroe township in 1874.

Their son, James McCune, was reared on his father's farms in Fayette and Adams counties. He was educated in the common schools of these two counties and secured as liberal an education as was possible under the circumstances. He learned the lessons of a farmer's life and applied these lessons to advantage in his after life. At the outbreak of the Civil war he answered one of the first calls for volunteers to preserve the Union and enlisted in Company I of the Eighty-ninth Indiana Volunteer Infantry. Soon after his enlistment his regiment was attached to the Army of the Tennessee and he saw much real warfare. He participated with distinction in the engagements fought at Tupelo, Mississippi; Mumfordsville, Kentucky; Yellow Bayou, Louisiana; Franklin, Tennessee; the two days' siege of Nashville and at Fort Blackley, Alabama. He was twice taken prisoner by the Confederates and was severely wounded in the arm at the engagement fought at Tupelo , Mississippi . He served with his regiment until the close of the war in 1865 and was mustered out of the Federal service with an honorable discharge. He then returned to Adams county and resumed his life as a tiller of the soil.

The marriage of Mr. McCune and Miss Emeline Baker was solemnized in Adams county in 1860. His wife is a native of Indiana and a daughter of Jesse and Lydia (Vance) Baker. Her parents were among the older settlers in northeastern Indiana and came to Adams county in 1857. He purchased a farm in this county, which he cultivated until his death. Her parents had seven children, all of whom are still living. Mr. and Mrs. McCune are the parents of three children. These children are: John, Cynthia and Martin.

Mr. McCune is the owner of a fine tract of one hundred and twenty acres of land in Monroe township, on which he makes his home. All of his farm is under cultivation with the exception of twelve acres, which he allows to remain in timber. He has been a farmer all of life and has conducted his present farm since he returned from the Civil war. His farm is well improved and thoroughly ditched and drained. The land is very fertile and his crops each year are large and profitable. He has substantial fences about his property and the buildings on it are large and well adapted to the purposes to which they are put. He has done much carpenter work in connection with is farming and erected the building on his estate himself. He is in a very broad sense a successful man. He takes a live and intelligent interest in the affairs of his county and township, and has served his fellow residents in the important offices of township trustee, justice of the peace and as member of the school board. He was a justice of the peace for Monroe township for fourteen years and discharged the duties of this exacting office with Fearlessness and excellent judgment. He is a Republican in politics, as was his father before him, and his voice is frequently heard in the councils of his party in his community. With the members of his family he gives his support to the Christian church and is a faithful member of this denomination. He is a member of the Masonic Lodge, No. 512, of Decatur, and of the local Grange Lodge, the F. M. B. A. and the Grand Army of the Republic.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 407 (image 833).


CHRISTIAN BEERY.

It would be difficult to find a finer country estate in the whole of Adams county than that owned by Christ Beery in Washington township. This farm is one that is pointed out as among the model estates of the township and reflects much credit on its owner. He was born in Washington township, of Adams county, November 8, 1850. He is a son of Eli and Hester (Biosser) Beery. His father and mother had a family of fourteen children, of whom the following survive: Melinda, Martin, Reuben, Christ, John and Daniel W. Eli Beery was born in Pennsylvania and came to Ohio and thence to Indiana. His wife was born in Ohio and after their marriage they settled in Washington township in 1849. At the time the elder Beery and his wife reached northeastern Indiana much of the township was wild land. They were compelled to clear the tract they settled on before it could be made productive. The woods abounded in many kinds of wild game and Eli Beery shot deer, turkeys and other game on the site of the pleasant acres of today. He erected a log cabin and this was the family home for some years. Later he erected a frame dwelling along more modern lines and still later this dwelling gave way to a substantial brick house that is still standing.

The youth and young manhood of Christ Beery was spent on his father's farm. He was educated in the rude schools of his boyhood day and secured as complete a common school education as was possible under the circumstances. When he became old enough he assisted in the work of cultivating the home farm and in time became a proficient tiller of the soil.

In 1886 he was married to Miss Martha Burkhead, a daughter of John and Ann Burkhead, who were among the first settlers in Washington township. The father of Mrs. Beery is dead, but her mother is still living in Washington township. The father of Mr. Beery died in 1879 and his mother in 1901. Mr. and Mrs. Beery have become the parents of two children: Frederick D. and Georgia Irene, both of whom are living with their parents on the home farm. Although farming has been the principal occupation of Mr. Beery, he lived for a time in Decatur. However, the liking for a farm life became too strong to be denied and he returned to his present place in 1903. His farm is a fine one of one hundred acres, eighty of which are under cultivation. It is one of the most valuable in the neighborhood and easily worth one hundred and ten dollars an acre. It is all improved. The ditches are well placed and the fencing and buildings are substantial and modern. The farm crops are rotated with excellent judgment and are profitable. In addition to a general farming business Mr. Beery carries on stock raising. He deals largely in stock for the market and with his brother has bought and sold horses all over the country. As the recent panic that affected the horse market Mr. Beery, and his brother lost upwards of thirty-two thousand dollars. Mr. Beery is in every sense a successful man. He is a successful farmer and stock dealer. He is well respected in the community where he resides.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 406 (image 831).


REUBEN BEERY.

Reuben Beery, who for more than a quarter of a century has resided on and cultivated a splendid farm in Kirkland township, Adams county, Indiana, and who is popular among the community's leading citizens, was born in this county in 1848, the 10th of January being his natal day. His parents were Eli and Hester (Blossom) Beery, the former of whom was born in Pennsylvania and in young manhood came to Fairfield county, Ohio, and here followed farming until the time of his death, which occurred in 1883. At the time of coming here, in 1838, but few white settlers inhabited the county and the land was densely covered with timber, which gave little promise of the magnificent farms which now characterize this locality. To Eli and Hester Beery were born fourteen children, of whom six are still living. The subject's mother died in 1902.

Reuben Beery received his education in the common schools of this county and his entire life has been devoted to farming. Twenty-five years- ago he obtained possession of his present farm, which consists of eighty acres of valuable and well-cultivated land, which he has been instrumental in transforming- from its original state to its present condition. Many substantial and convenient buildings have been erected and in many respects his farm is considered one of the best in the county.

In 1871 Mr. Beery was married to Miss Elizabeth Steele, daughter of Joseph and Mrs. Steele, both natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Adams county, Indiana, in an early day and settled in Kirkland township, where they followed farming. To the subject and his wife have been born ten children, namely: Flora, the wife of George Bright, Kirkland township; Rona, the wife of Oran Shaffer; James married Ann a Kieffer and is a harness-maker at Hoagland, Indiana; Maggie and Edith are at home; Jesse married Jessie Springer and resides in this township ; Clyde resides in Kirkland township; Mabel and Virgil are at home, and Ada is deceased. Politically Mr. Beery votes the Prohibition ticket, while his religious affiliation is with the Brethren of Christ church. In the fullest sense of the word Mr. Beery is a self-made man and commands the unstinted respect of his fellow citizens.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 405 (image 829).


WILLIAM A. BOWMAN.

William A. Bowman is a native of Adams county, Indiana, and was born in French township, July 14, 1860. He is a son of Gideon and Aline (Sautbine) Bowman. His father was born in Pennsylvania and removed to Indiana, settling in French township in a very early day. He followed the occupation of a farmer all his life and died in French township on his homestead in 1898. Mr. and Mrs. Gideon Bowman were the parents of six children. These children were named as follows: Isaac, Angeline, deceased; William A., Elizabeth, Loretta and Nettie. Gideon Bowman was one of the older settlers of French township and was an ardent Democrat during his life. He was also a member of the Christian church.

Of his father's family of six children William A. Bowman was the third in order of birth and the second son born. He was reared on his father's farm in French township and attended the schools of his neighborhood. In these schools he secured as good a common school education as was possible at that time in his district and he improved all of his opportunities. During the months when there was no session of the district school he assisted his father in the cultivation of his farm and became an expert agriculturist.

October 23, 1887, he was united in marriage to Miss Abbie Studabaker, born in Wells county, November 28, 1861, and a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Abram Studabaker. Her father was born in Ohio and her mother, who was Miss Louisa Dewitt before her marriage, was born in New York . Mr. and Mrs. Bowman have become the parents of nine children. Of this number eight are living. Those living are: Earl, Edward J., Bessie, Charles, Russell, Lloyd, Edith and Viola. A daughter, Pearl, is deceased.

After his marriage Mr. Bowman continued to live on the old homestead for several years. In 1901 he purchased his present tract of ninety acres in Washington township and has since resided on it. Since his farm came into his possession he has made many improvements on it. He has ditched it thoroughly and laid in excess of eight hundred dollars' worth of tiling. The entire place is under cultivation with the exception of about three acres, which are covered with a good quality of timber. The buildings on the farm are substantial and the entire place is a fine property. Mr. Bowman is a progressive farmer and applies modern methods to the cultivation of his estate.

Although he is an earnest member of the Democratic party and works for the interest of this party, it cannot be said that he is in any sense a public man. He has never held public office nor aspired to hold any office of this nature. He is affiliated with no fraternal bodies, but he and his wife are consistent and generous members of the Methodist Episcopal church of his neighborhood. He is highly esteemed and counted among the strong men of his community.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 404 (image 827).


MARION L. OLIVER.

Marion L. Oliver, manager of the Monroe Grain, Hay and Milling Company, Monroe, Adams county, Indiana, is a native of the state of Ohio, having been born at Greenville, Darke county, on October 8, 1864. He is the son of Silas and Mary (North) Oliver. The father was also a native of Darke county, Ohio, as was his wife, and they came to Adams county with their family in 1873, settling in Monroe township, where they resided until their deaths. He was a Democrat in politics and himself and wife were members of the United Brethren church.

Marion L. Oliver received his education in the common schools of Adams county and under his father's able instructions was early taught the secrets of successful husbandry. He followed agricultural pursuits consistently and successfully until 1892, when he came to Monroe and accepted a position as manager for J. D. Hale, of Decatur, owner of a grain elevator at Monroe. He continued in this line of business until 1907. He is also an extensive dealer in hay, buying and shipping large quantities. For ten years of this time Mr. Oliver was associated in business with J. D. Hale, of Decatur, Indiana, and subsequently with the Carroll Elevator Company, successors to Mr. Hale. At the elevator Mr. Oliver purchased or stored more grain in a single day than any other elevator in the county, amounting at times to nearly ten thousand bushels. In 1907 the Monroe Grain, Hay and Milling Company was organized and Mr. Oliver is its manager. He takes an active interest in general business affairs and is considered among Monroe 's leading and progressive citizens. He is a staunch Democrat in politics and he is now serving as town clerk of Monroe .

In 1886 Mr. Oliver married Miss Ellen Wistner, daughter of W. A. and Adeline (La Master) Wistner, natives of Washington township, Adams county, Indiana, and descended of earliest settlers. To this union have been born three children, namely: Chauncey, Homer W. and Edward F. Homer is receiving a good education, now attending the normal school at Marion, Indiana .

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 404 (image 827).


MARTIN L. SMITH.

Martin L. Smith, who resides on a well improved farm in Wabash township, Adams county, Indiana, is a native of the locality in which he now lives and was born November 6, 1859. He is a son of Franklin and Catherine (Rawley) Smith, residents, respectively, of Pennsylvania and Virginia, who came to Indiana in an early day, and such was the roughness of the country at that time that it was necessary for them to cut a road through the woods. To them were born nine children: Elizabeth, deceased; William R.; John, deceased; one who died in infancy; Sidney, deceased; Martin, the subject; Eliza J.; Alice, deceased, and Hannah. After the father of these children married they moved to Root township, where he remained a short time, eventually going elsewhere, but before his death returned to Root township and died there in 1871. His wife is still living in Decatur. After her first husband's death she became the wife of J. Rugg, of Decatur, now deceased.

The subject of this sketch received a good practical education in the common schools and early took up the pursuit of farming under the able tutorship of his father. He has been eminently successful as an agriculturist, due to the sound judgment exercised by him in the rotation of his crops and other features which contribute to successful agriculture. He owns one hundred and nine acres of land, on which he has resided since 1887, and to which he has devoted his entire time. He carries on general farming and gives some attention to the breeding and raising of Poland China hogs and Shropshire sheep. Mr. Smith has erected all of the present buildings on the farm and has also constructed the splendid fences and well built ditches which now characterize the place. In politics he is a Democrat and has served two terms on the advisory board of the township. He is a member of the Evangelical church

In 1881 he married Miss Isabella Kern, daughter of Philip B. and Mary (Luckey) Kern, early settlers of Union township. To this union were born six children, namely: Philip, Hannah, Clayton, Orvie, Gertrude and Leslie, all at home.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 403 (image 825).


ELIAS HIRSCHY.

Elias Hirschy, who is numbered among Wabash township's most successful agriculturists and stock breeders, is a native of this county, having been born on the 22d of August, 1859. He is the son of Philip and Mary (Richer) Hirschy, natives, respectively, of Switzerland and France. The father was born in 1824 and at the age of twelve years decided that his future hopes laid in America. Putting his convictions into practice, he at once emigrated and located first in Starke county, Ohio, where he lived for twelve years and followed his trade of carpentering. Locating in Wabash township, Adams county, in 1847. He at once entered upon the task of creating a farm out of the dense wilderness which then covered that region, and in this effort was successful to the highest degree, being numbered among the most progressive farmers of the community. He died October 12, 1899, and his wife died December 6, 1893.

The subject of this sketch obtained a good education in the common schools of his native township and upon attaining mature years entered actively upon the life to which he had been inured, that of a farmer. He is the owner of eighty acres of as good land as can be found in the township, all under the plow excepting twelve acres of pasture and woodland, and here he carries on general farming, also giving some attention to the breeding of live stock. In politics Mr. Hirschy assumes an independent attitude, voting independently. Though not ambitious for public office, he served as school director for three years. He attends the Mission church at Berne.

Mr. Hirschy has been twice married, the first time to Miss Magdalena Stuckey, daughter of Jacob and Barbara (Gerig) Stuckey, natives of Switzerland, who came to Adams county, Indiana, in an early day. The father is now deceased and the mother resides in Berne at the age of seventy-seven. To this union have been born three children: Matilda, Norman and Meta. Mr. Hirschy's second marital union was with Miss Katie Lehman, daughter of Christ and Ann a (Springer) Lehman, early settlers of this county, and to this union were born two children: Selma and Ida. The children all reside at home and received a good education in the public schools of the township.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 402 (image 823).


DAVID SCHINDLER.

David Schindler, who for over a third of a century has owned and operated a splendid farm in French township, Adams county, Indiana, and who, during all these years, has lived an honorable and upright life among his fellow citizens, was born in French township on November 19, 1849. He is the son of John and Catherine (Moser) Schindler, the former of whom was born in Germany, but came to the United States at an early date. He first worked as a farm hand in New York state for eight years for one man and then came to Wayne county, Ohio, where he farmed again until his removal to Adams county in 1846. He first settled in French township, which was at that time in a very unsettled condition. He here cleared and improved a fine farm, which he operated up to the time of his death. He was the father of seven children: Jacob, John, Christ, deceased; Peter, Catherine, David, Sarah.

The subject of this sketch received his education in the schools of his locality and was early inured to the life of a farmer. He is the owner of eighty acres of fine land, on which are raised all the crops common to this latitude and also gives some attention to the breeding and raising of Poland China and Duroc hogs.

January 7. 1872, Mr. Schindler was married to Miss Catherine Schlatter, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Augusberger) Schlatter, who came here in an early day and settled in French township, where they followed farming. Both are now deceased. Catharina Schindler died December 19, 1876, aged fifty-six years, two months and sixteen days. John S. died August 12, 1877, aged eighty-two years. Joseph Schlatter died September 31, 1872, aged fifty-four years, eleven months and four days. Elizabeth S. died December 15, 1897, aged eighty-three years, nine months and ten days.

To the subject and his wife have been born twelve children, whose names, with the years of their birth, are as follows: Noah, who was born in 1872; Lizzie, 1874; Cassie, 1875; Elmer, 1877; Joseph, 1878; John, 1880; Samuel, 1882; Menno, 1884; Simon, 1886; Ella, 1889; Edwin, 1891; Selena, 1894. The family are members of the Missionary church and occupy a high position in the community.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 401 (image 821).


SAMUEL LEHMAN.

Samuel Lehman, who after many years of strenuous and unremitting labor as a successful farmer of this county, is now living a retired life in his comfortable and beautiful home in Berne, was born in Wayne county, Ohio, on the 9th of June, 1841, and is the son of Christian and Magdalena (Giger) Lehman. The father was born in Switzerland on January 15, 1805, and the mother in Canton Berne, Switzerland, on August 2, 1802. They were farmers, living in the mountainous region of that country, and after their marriage came to Wayne county, Ohio, in 1840, settling on a farm which they operated until their deaths, the father dying April 30, 1883, and the mother June 5, 1872. They were the parents of three children: John A., who for many years followed farming at Wooster, Wayne county, Ohio , but is now retired; Christian A., deceased, who also followed farmin in Wayne county, Ohio ; and the subject of this sketch. The paternal grandfather, Christian Lehman, who was a successful farmer in his native land, never came to the United States.

Samuel Lehman received his early education in a rude log cabin and it is an interesting fact that the cabin in which he learned his first lessons is still standing on the old home farm in Wayne county, Ohio. In 1867 Mr. Lehman came to Adams county, settling in Wabash township, where he remained during the summer, and then purchased a farm in Monroe township. He followed carpentering for two years, subsequently settling on his farm, where he lived for thirty-five years, when on December 22, 1903, he came to Berne and has since here resided. During the last fifteen years, in connection with his farming, he also successfully conducted an undertaking business. He is the owner of one hundred and twenty acres of splendid land, well improved with many permanent and substantial buildings. In Berne Mr. Lehman erected a beautiful and commodious brick house on Lehman street, which thoroughfare was named in honor of his family. He votes independently and though not an aspirant for public office, he has served two terms as supervisor of Monroe township. Religiously he is a member of the Mennonite church. Mr. Lehman has taken an active interest in the local history of the Berne settlement, of which he has a complete and authentic record, containing the births and deaths of six hundred families, the only record of the kind in the community.

The subject has been twice married, the first time in 1865 to Miss Elizabeth Oberly, who was born November 4, 1844, the daughter of Peter and Susana (Von Candle) Oberly, farming folk of Wayne county, Ohio. To this union was born one child: Josephine, who died at the age of three months. Mrs. Elizabeth Lehman died December 10, 1866, and on October 31, 1867, Mr. Lehman married Elizabeth Sprunger, daughter of Abraham B. and Elizabeth (Zuercher) Sprunger, natives of the same locality in Switzerland from whence came the subject's family. The Sprunger family came to America July 6, 1854, settling first in Wayne county, Ohio , but three months later came to Adams county, Indiana, settling, on the 4th of October, on a farm in the woods in Monroe township. Abraham B. Sprunger, who was born October 7, 1819, died August 2, 1896, and his wife, who was born August 12, 181 3, died August 16, 1887. To the subject's last union have been born eleven children: William R-, a farmer living in Phoenix, Arizona ; Caroline R., who is living in Berne; Emma, who resides in Blue Creek township, this county; Daniel J., deceased; Solomon A., of Fort Wayne; Helena M., who is living in Berne; Noah M., of Monroe township; Enos W. and Leonhard, who live in Berne; Matilda E., who resides at home, but is now attending a mission Bible school in Fort Wayne , and Wilbert H., at home.

The subject served for eighteen years as trustee of the Mennonite church. He was appointed in 1879 and served until 1897.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 400 (image 819).


JACOB WULLIMANN.

Jacob Wullimann, who is numbered among French township's successful farmers and progressive citizens, was born in Canton Berne, Switzerland, on December 21, 1840. He is the son of Clemenz and Elizabeth (Habbeger) Wullimann, who came from their native land to the United States in 1852, settling first in Putnam county, Ohio. A short time later, however, they removed to Adams county, Indiana, settling in the midst of a woods in French township. Here a rude log cabin was erected, in which the family resided for thirty-five years, and here they endured all the privations and hardships which characterized the first settlements, being compelled to haul produce to Fort Wayne with oxen and sleds, and it is related that it was necessary to take axes with them in order to cut their way through the woods. These parents had seven children: Mary, deceased; Jacob; Lizzie; Edward, deceased; Lena, deceased, and Ann a, who became the wife of David Soldner, of Monroe township. The parents of these children died in 1892.

Jacob Wullimann received such an education as was found in the primitive schools of the early days and was inured to the strenuous labor incident to farm life. He always has followed farming as an occupation and has been successful to a satisfactory degree, possessing now a fine farm of one hundred and sixty acres, of which one hundred and thirty are under the plow, the balance being pasture and woodland. In addition to general farming Mr. Wullimann also gives some attention to the raising of live stock, principally Hereford cattle and O. I. C. hogs. He has made many substantial and permanent improvements on the place, including a fine house and commodious barn. As an evidence of Mr. Wullimann's progressive spirit it may be stated that he was one of the first men in this locality to place drain tile on his farm. He soon proved the value of this and others followed his example. The country was wild when he first came here and much wild game, including many deer, was plentiful. He has always voted the Republican ticket, though never held office. Religiously he is a member of the Mennonite church.

In 1868 Mr. Wullimann married Miss Katheryn Neuenschwander, daughter of Christian and Ann a (Lehman) Neuenschwander, who came to this country in 1845, settling first in Wayne county, Ohio. Subsequently they went to Iowa, but eventually came east again and located in Monroe township, where they followed farming during the remainder of their lives. To the subject and his wife have been born twelve children: Noah, living near Berne; William, who resides at home and follows the trade of carpentering; Edward, Adeline and Jacob, deceased; Anna, David, Mennis, Lydia and Melita, who are at home; Bernard, who is deceased.

Clemenz Wullimann's first wife, mother of subject, died and Clemenz married the second time to Elizabeth Liechty, who died the same day Clemenz died, and both were buried in the same grave, in 1892.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 400 (image 819).


JACOB C. NEUENSCHWANDER.

Jacob C. Neuenschwander, who successfully cultivates a fine farm of eighty acres in Monroe township, Adams county, Indiana, was born in Putnam county, Ohio, on July 19, 1848. He is a son of Christian P. and Ann a (Lehman) Neuenschwander, natives of Switzerland, who came to Ohio in 1845, and after four years' residence there, removed to Iowa . Subsequently they came to Adams county, Indiana, where they remained until their deaths, the father dying in 1887 and the mother in 1889. They were the parents of fourteen children, of whom the following are still living: Katie, Fanny, Adeline, Elizabeth, Leah, Jacob C, David and Christ.

The subject of this sketch received his early training in the common schools of Monroe township, where he learned the secrets of successful husbandry, which occupation has been his life work until recently. He cleared his entire tract of land, placed upon it many permanent and substantial buildings. On December 14, 1905, Mr. Neuenschwander removed to Berne, renting the farm to his son-in-law, who now successfully operates the same. Prior to the improvement of the farm mentioned Mr. Neuenschwander cleared and improved another farm, which he disposed of when removing to the last named place.

In 1872 the subject married Miss Elizabeth Stauffer, the daughter of Christian and Fanny (Habbager) Stauffer, natives of Switzerland, and to this union have been born twelve children: Anna, who is married and living on the old home farm; Adam, who is a carpenter in Monroe township; Lovina, who lives in Berne; Emanuel and David, who reside with their parents; Theressa, who is living in Ohio ; Andrew, who is at home, and five who died in infancy.

For many years Mr. Neuenschwander cast his vote for the Democratic party, but recently has given his allegiance to the Prohibition party. He is a member of the Mennonite church and takes an active interest in all things tending to upbuild the best interests of the community.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 399 (image 817).


ANDREW J. PORTER.

Andrew J. Porter, who occupies and cultivates a splendid, farm of forty acres in Blue Creek township, Adams county, Indiana, was born in Licking county, Ohio, on June 8, 1848. He is the son of William and Margaret (Hoskinson) Porter, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Licking county, Ohio. The father was a farmer and came to Ohio with his father, Matthew Porter, a native of Pennsylvania, but of Irish descent, his great-grandfather Porter having come from the north of Ireland some time prior to the Revolutionary war and settling in the above named state. William Porter lived in Ohio until 1864, when he came to Adams county, settling near Chattanooga, and followed farming until his death on September 15, 1871. His wife died on the 25th of August, 1858. Unto the subject's parents were born twelve children, of whom four are now living, namely : Rebecca, Andrew J., Rachael and John R.

The subject of this sketch attended the common schools of his locality and during vacation periods labored on the farm until twenty years old, when he determined upon a legal career and to this end he studied law in the office of Colonel I. N. Alexander and was admitted to the bar in 1873. He practiced law at Van Wert, Ohio, for ten years and in 1878 was chosen mayor of that city and re-elected two years later. In October, 1880, he was elected prosecuting attorney of the county and in consequence resigned his mayoralty. In 1883 he came to Blue Creek township, Adams county, and for a few years lived on his father's farm, subsequently buying the farm which he now occupies. It is a splendid piece of land and is given a most careful attention by Mr. Porter, who has not had cause to regret his change of occupation. In politics he gives a staunch support to the Democratic party and fraternally is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Van Wert, Ohio, and the Knights of Pythias at Berne.

In 1874 Mr. Porter married Miss Parthena Shaffer, daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth (Garver) Shaffer, the former a native of Preble county, Ohio, who came to Adams county in 1850, locating in Blue Creek township, where he followed farming and carpentering. To the subject and his wife have been born five children, of whom three are living: William S., who married Susie Calderwood and resides in Dayton, Ohio, where he occupies a position as photographer for the cash register company; Frances and Giles, who are at home.

Submitted by: Margie Pearce
Snow's History of Adams County, Indiana,
John Fletcher Snow,
B. F. Bowen, Indianapolis, IN, 1907,
p. 398 (image 815).


Deb Murray