HENRY H. FRICKENSCHER. A large class of the farmers of Clay township led such modest and quiet lives as to be seldom heard of outside of their own township. They are doing fine work in their own community, but do not care to mingle in the more public matters of political life, and devote all their time and energies to the cultivation of their farms and the development of the resources of their vicinity. Such men deserve more mention than they ordinarily receive, and it is a pleasure to here present one of them in the person of Henry H. Fickenscher, who was born in the township in which he now resides February 29, 1859, his parents being John and Caroline (Fox) Fickenscher, natives of Germany. The father learned the miller's trade in his native land and followed that business until coming to America about the year 1853, after which he at once engaged in farming in Clay township of this county. Here he met and married Miss Fox, whose parents, George and Anna Fox, were native Germans, and settled on a farm near Lakeville, this county. John Ficken¬scher lived in Clay township for several years, of which be was one of the most substantial of the German residents, and became the owner of 160 acres of fertile farming land. He did military duty in his native land in accordance with the laws of that country. His death occurred on the old homestead, October 3, 1882, his wife's death having taken place a year earlier. They were the parents of four children: Ludwig S. Henry H., Edward D. and George. The mother of these children had been previously married to a Mr. Glassauer, by whom she had one child, Charles. Henry H. Fickenscher was reared on the homestead in Clay township, and like the average farmer's boy, obtained a practical education in the district schools in the vicinity of his home. He became thoroughly familiar with the details of agriculture during his youthful days, and many a day was spent in hard labor on the farm. Upon starting out in life for himself it was but natural that he should become a farmer, and after the death of his worthy parents he purchased eighty acres of the old homestead and on this place still makes his home. A brother purchased the balance, consisting of eighty acres, but Mr. Fickenscher has charge of and farms the entire place, and on account of his careful management the income from the same is ample. Fifteen of his eighty acres is timber land. He was married on June 10, 1883, to Sophia Kuntsman, who was born in January, 1862, in Penn township, this county, her father and mother being Wolf and Sophia (Schafer) Kuntsman, native Germans, but now useful and worthy residents of St. Joseph county. Mr. and Mra. Fickenscher are the parents of two children: Lillie E., born September 5, 1884, and Hilda S., born April 4, 1892. The principles of the Democratic party have always commended themselves to his judgment, and he supports them whenever called upon to do so, like the consistent and straightforward man that he is.

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JOHN V. ZEITLER is a Bavarian by birth, for in that country he first saw the light of day, May 2, 1835, but he has been a resident of this country since 1847, and has become thoroughly Americanized. His parents, Henry and Catherine (Klughart) Zeitler, were born in Germany, the former in 1802, and throughout life his attention was devoted to farming. He was married to Catherine Klughart, who in due course of time presented him with five children: Margaret, Catherine, Elizabeth, John V., and Andrew, whose death occurred in Alabama, at which time he was in the mercantile business and the owner of 3,000 acres of land. The father of these children died in Germany in 1842, and his widow subsequently married John M. Meyers, a native of that country, and in 1847 the family came to America, going by water to Chicago and up the St. Joseph River on a flat-boat, the journey up that river occupying one week. As it was during the month of August and the river was low, a great deal of time and hard work was necessary in getting their boat over the sand bars, etc. They were among the first Germans to come direct to South Bend, and soon after they settled on a farm six miles south of the town in the vicinity of Bremen, Ind. A year later they took up their residence in Clay township on the farm which is now owned and occupied by John V. Zeitler. The land was partially improved, a log cabin had been built on the place, into which they moved, and a little clearing had been done. Both Mr. and Mrs. Meyers died in South Bend. John V. Zeitler came to this country with his mother and step-father, and in 1872 purchased the homestead in Clay township, and his parents moved to South Bend. During his early years Mr. Zeitler spent many days in hard labor on the home farm, but in 1865 went to South Bend, and in company with his step-father and J. C. Knoblock, purchased the St. Joseph Flour Mill, the management of which was placed in the hands of Mr. Zeitler, which position he acceptably filled for six years. He then sold his interest in this mill, returned to Clay township and purchased the old homestead for $10,000. At that time there were few improvements on the place, and the present fine buildings and the convenient and comfortable surroundings represent the industry and thrift of years. The farm, which contains 160 acres, is exceptionally fertile, and is conveniently located one mile north of the city limits of South Bend, which makes it especially valuable. He owns 135 acres in another part of the same township, the result of his intelligent management, and every enterprise to which he has devoted his attention has been a successful one. Since he has been a resident of Clay township he has held the offices of trustee and assessor, but as a rule has not been an aspirant for office, his business enterprises occupying the most of his attention. He began the battle of life without means, and can well recall the time when he worked for 50 cents a day, and $6 and $10 per month. At the present time he is one of the heaviest tax payers in the township. He was married May 9, 1867, to Miss Lotta Kleindinst, a native of Germany, by whom he has two children: Charles and Edward. Mr. Zeitler is a worthy member of the A. F. & A. M., and politically supports Democratic principles.

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CHRISTIAN BUCHER. The very fine farm owned by the subject of this sketch comprises 160 acres, is cultivated in a very intelligent and profitable manner, and is situated in a desirable portion of Clay township. Mr. Bucher is a native of Switzerland, where he was born February 2, 1820, a son of Ulrich and Margaret (Platter) Bucher, also of that country, the father's birth occurring August 15, 1784. His early days were very monotonous, and were marked by hard and continuous labor. He did military service upon attaining a proper age, according to the laws of his country, but in 1833 left Switzerland for America, bringing his family with him. He settled on a farm in Stark county, Ohio, where he spent a number of years, then came to St. Joseph county, purchasing a farm in Clay township, of which his son Christian is now a resident. On this farm he spent the remainder of his days, paying the last debt of nature October 24, 1858, his wife's death having occurred a number of years earlier in Ohio. To him and his wife a family of seven children were granted, three of whom are living at the present time. The subject of this sketch was thirteen years of age when America became his home and during his long residence in the United States he has become thoroughly Americanized and is a most loyal subject of Uncle Sam. During the nine years that he resided in Stark county, Ohio, he attended the district schools, but as the advantages were very poor, his education was but limited. He carried a Bible to school, it being the only book available, and from it learned what knowledge he could of reading. In the spring of 1842 he came to St. Joseph county and the first year was spent on the farm of John Metzger, on Harris Prairie, his services throughout the year amounting to $9 per month. At that time his capital consisted of a good constitution and a couple of suits of home-made clothes. For ten years he worked by the month and by indefatigable industry and perseverance, and the most rigid economy, he was enabled to purchase 80 acres of land in Clay township and begin farming for himself. He has since added to his real estate until he now owns 160 acres, which makes him one of the most fertile of farms, owing to the careful manner in which every detail is looked after. On November 8, 1849, Mr. Bucher took unto himself a wife in the person of Miss Mary Smith, who was born in Stark county, Ohio, March 15, 1832, a daughter of George and Catherine (Kiefer) Smith, both of whom were born in Germany and came to America with their parents, their marriage occurring at Canton, Ohio, in December, 1829. Mr. Smith was one of the pioneers of St. Joseph county, Ind., taking up his residence in Harris township on the county line between Elkhart and St. Joseph counties in the spring of 1835, where he and his wife eventually passed from life. Three years after the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Bucher they settled on the farm in Clay township where they now reside. Six children have been born of their union: Lydia, George, David, Edna, Eddie and Elva. Mr. and Mrs. Bucher are members of the Evangelical Church, of which they are active and liberal supporters, and he is a supporter of Republican principles.

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WILLIAM McCOMBS has long since passed to that bourne whence no traveler returns, but he left his impress on the section in which he resided and his memory will long be treasured by those who knew and respected him in life. He was born near Worcester, Ohio, January 31, 1818, a son of Lambert and Hannah (Hagne) McCombs, natives of Pennsylvania, who were among the early settlers of St. Joseph county, coming here in July, 1829, and braving the dangers and privations of pioneer life in order to establish a comfortable home for himself and family. He first settled in Clay township near the present site of Sider's Mill, and there the family passed the winter of 1829-30. The following spring they removed to the west side of Portage Prairie in German township, in which year the land came into market, and Mr. McComb purchased a farm in Section 26, which he settled in the spring of the following year. The land was wild and unimproved and the Indian population many times exceeded that of the white, but Mr. McComb was of a hopeful disposition and knew that time would remedy that state of affairs, so set energetically to work to improve his farm. A log cabin was erected on the place and there he made his home until circumstances permitted the erection of a better residence. After making many improvements Mr. McComb sold the property and settled one mile west on a farm on Portage Prairie. About the year 1848 he disposed of this property also, and in the fall of that year started for California. The family spent that winter in Missouri and the following spring resumed their journey westward. From that time until his death Mr. McCombs made California his home, and there his wife also passed from life at the advanced age of ninety-nine years. William McCombs, the subject of this sketch was a lad of about eleven years when his parents came to St. Joseph county, and in this section he was reared to the independent and healthful life of the farmer. On September 12, 1839, he was married to Miss Eva Cripe, who was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, March 2, 1816, a daughter of John and Eva (Roof) Cripe. After their marriage they immediately located in Clay township, which has been the home of the family ever since and where they reared a family of nine children to honorable and independent manhood and womanhood. They christened their children as follows: Elizabeth, John, Lambert, Maria, Samuel G., Eva E., Hannah L., Sarah A. and William F. The father of these children was called from life in December, 1885, at which time he was a worthy member of the German Baptist Church, and one of its most substantial supporters. He was a very generous father, a kind and loving husband, and left his family well provided for. His widow is the owner of 247 acres of valuable land and resides in a commodious and comfortable residence. Eva E., Hannah L. and Sarah A. make their home with their mother. Mrs. McCombs rents her farm, and although her hair is white with the snows of many winters, she is still wide awake, energetic and active and transacts her business affairs in an intelligent and praiseworthy manner. She is one of the oldest settlers of St. Joseph county now living, for she came to this section with her parents in the fall of 1830. She has long been a worthy member of the German Baptist Church, and being kind hearted, charitable and generous, she has numerous friends.

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JACOB EATON, president of the board of county commissioners of St. Joseph county, ,Ind., was born in Frederick county, Md., May 1, 1819, son of Isaac and Margaret (Metzger) Eaton, the former of whom was born in Loudoun county, Va., January 24, 1775. He was an only son, whose father was an English soldier in the Revolutionary war. When a lad he removed to Montgomery county, Md., where he was reared and apprenticed to the blacksmith's trade, a business, which after learning, he followed for many years. During the War of 1812 he was a volunteer under Gen. Mason, and witnessed the burning of the bridge at the capital. His duties were chiefly confined to protecting Baltimore. About the year 1798 he was married in Frederick county, Md., near where the battle of Antietam was fought, to Margaret Metzger, born November 15, 1781, daughter of Valentine Metzger, a German by birth. To Mr. and Mrs. Eaton eight children were born: Amelia, Susanna, William and Abraham, deceased, and Samuel, John, Mary and Jacob living. In the fall of 1830 the family emigrated to Montgomery county, Ohio, where they remained one year, then came on to St. Joseph county, Ind., and settled on the land now devoted to St. Mary's Academy in Clay township, which at that time was known as German township. His means were limited at the time of his location here and he took a large lease on a farm, on which he lived for five years, during which time he saved enough money to enter eighty acres of land in Section 17, Clay township, which was entirely covered with oak and hickory timber and in a very wild state. He cleared a small portion and erected thereon a log cabin 18x20 feet, one and one-half stories high, which at that time was considered a very commodious and comfortable dwelling. Here he lived for nearly twenty-five years, clearing and improving his farm in various ways. By appointment he was one of the commissioners who located the county seats of Kosciusko and Steuben counties and assisted in the surveying of the State road from Detroit to Chicago. He was a very useful early pioneer, was a considerate and accommodating neighbor and a law-abiding and public-spirited citizen. His death occurred at the home of his son Jacob on Christmas day, 1869. His wife died April 23, 1863. Their son Abraham was accidentally killed, when young, while loading a flint-lock gun. William, his brother, was also accidentally killed in La Porte county by the falling of a timber while he was erecting a building. Jacob Eaton, the immediate subject of this sketch, was reared in his native county, and although but thirteen years of age at the time his parents came west, the most of his education was obtained in Maryland. After coming to Indiana he never attended a free school, the subscription plan being in vogue here at that time. At the age of twenty-one years he obligated himself to care for his parents during their life time in consideration of the eighty acres in the homestead and gave them one-third of the profits of the land in cash. For several years he had a hard time, and at one time, after his marriage, being in need of more land, he offered the eighty acres for $800 without finding a purchaser. He afterward sold the same for double the amount. In 1853 he purchased 150 acres of land and the following year settled on the same, where he still resides. He has since added to this land until he now owns 225 acres. Mr. Eaton was trustee of Clay township for sixteen years and has been county commissioner seven years, being elected on the Democrat ticket, which he has always supported. At his last election he received 800 votes majority and is now acting as president of the board. He is the eldest resident of Clay township at the present time, and is one of her most highly honored citizens. He was married August 6, 1846, to Elizabeth Barnes, who was born on October 27, 1820, in Frederick county, Md., she being a daughter of John E. and Hannah (Yates) Barnes, the former a native of Virginia and the latter of the same. John Barnes settled in Penn township, St. Joseph county, in 1837 and afterward removed to Berrien, Marion Co., Mich., where his death occurred. His first wife died before he came to Indiana, and before his death he had married three times, all of his wives dying before he did. The following children were given to Mr. and Mrs. Eaton: Emma S., Edwin D. and Johanna W. living, and Clarissa M., Amelia A., Norman E. and Mark D. deceased. The three living, reside at home., Mr. Eaton attended school four winters after coming to Indiana, each term lasting three months, all of which were conducted on the subscription plan and were held in log cabins, consequently his advantages for gaining an education were not of the best, but he is, nevertheless, one of the most intelligent men of the county. There were but five families residing in Clay township at the time the Eatons located here, and were scattered along the St. Joseph River, where they could have access to the springs.

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REV. VALENTINE CZYZEWSKI, C. S. C., is a native of the Talkinny Government, Survalki, Russian Poland, his birth occurring on February 14, 1846, a son of Joseph and Eve (Zylinski) Czyzewski. The subject of this sketch was partly educated in his native Poland, but completed his knowledge of the "world of books" in that famous institution of learning, Notre Dame University. On January 28, 1876, he was ordained a priest, and was placed in charge of St. Joseph's parish, but in 1879 the church was blown down. He, with characteristic energy, immediately began the erection of a new place of worship, which is now called St. Hedwige's, located at 331 South Scott street, South Bend, Ind. Rev. Czyzewski's boyhood days were spent on a farm, and for two years he was employed in official work, which experience was of great benefit to him. Upon his first arrival in the United States he turned his attention to farming and blacksmithing as a means of livelihood, by which means he saved enough money to enable him to enter school, and, being intelligent and apt, he was soon the master of the English language, which enabled him to assist in teaching while attending school at Notre Dame. Since his pastorate in South Bend he has not allowed the work of the church to be at a standstill, either spiritually or practically. He has made himself familiar with the various phases of life to which his parishioners are born and reared, hence he is in peculiar sympathy with them and well qualified to be the leader of his flock. He has built up four churches and two schoolhouses, is active in good work, conscientious in the discharge of his duty, and is deservedly popular with his congregation.

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JOHN H. QUIGG is the oldest citizen in point of residence now living in Mishawaka, Ind., and in the history of the late Civil war he did not bear an unimportant part in that eventful struggle. He is descended from the "Canny Scot," for the early members of his family removed from Scotland to Ireland with a colony of people. The maternal grandfather came from the Emerald Isle and was of Irish descent. He settled in Kentucky, became a soldier of the Revolution, and later took part in the War of 1812. Henry Quigg, father of John H. Quigg, was a farmer of Wayne county, Ind., on the border line between Indiana and Ohio and there converted a tract of woodland into a well-cultivated farm. He was married to Amanda Ireland, by whom he became the father of the following children: Sarah, who died after her marriage; John H. and Armilda. Henry Quigg died at the age of forty-four years, having been an industrious, honorable and respected citizen. John H. Quigg was born on his father's farm November 25, 1830, and received such educational advantages as were bestowed upon the youth of his day. He was left fatherless at the age of three years and in 1833 was brought by his mother to Mishawaka and here began the battle of life for himself by doing such odd jobs as came in his way. At the age of eighteen years he became a deck hand on the steamer "Algoma," which plied from the mouth of the St. Joseph River to Three Rivers, Mich., and afterward worked on the steamer "Michigan," continuing this work for eight seasons. He next became a clerk in a grocery store and after a time opened a stationery and dry goods establishment in a small way, which business gradually prospered. In 1857 he married Mrs. Ida A. Mix, daughter of John Julian, a resident of Oswego, N. Y., and after his marriage he settled with his wife in Mishawaka and continued his business pursuits. In 1862 he was appointed by the United States Government, provost marshal, in which capacity he served until 1864, during which time he was actively employed and did good work, meeting with some stirring adventures, with bounty jumpers and deserters. On May 16, 1864, he enlisted in Company H, One Hundred and Thirty-eighth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and was mustered into the service as second lieutenant, serving faithfully until October, when he was honorably discharged on account of severe illness. He was taken ill at Stephenson, Ala., and laid for two weeks in a freight house at Anderson, Tenn., and as he had no care his was considered a hopeless case. However, his naturally good constitution triumphed, and upon convalescing he returned home with his regiment and was mustered out of the service at Indianapolis. After some time spent in clerking, he opened a grocery establishment of his own in 1876 and in 1879 added a stock of dry goods and became associated with H. G. Beemer, now of Canada, an old resident of Mishawaka, and the firm was known as Quigg & Beemer and soon held an enviable position in popular favor. He is now one of the prosperous business men of the town and carries a stock of goods valued at from $12,000 to $15,000, his being the only dry goods house of the place. Mr. Quigg has been a Mason since 1854 and is a member of Mishawaka Lodge, No. 130. He has always been a Democrat and before the war was a strong anti-slavery man. He served very acceptably in the capacity of deputy sheriff for eight years and at the same time was provost marshal. He is one of the well-known men of the county and during his almost life-long residence at Mishawaka he has stood deservedly high in the estimation of the public and has numerous warm friends. His wife, an estimable and intelligent lady, is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

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SAMUEL LEEPER, one of the well-known and prominent residents of South, Bend, Ind., owes his nativity to Montgomery county, Ohio, where he was born on the 10th of December, 1862, to Samuel and Susan (Metzger) Leeper, the former of whom was a pioneer of South Bend, and is mentioned elsewhere in this work, and the latter a native of Stark county, Ohio, born on the 16th of June, 1832, daughter of Sebastian Metzger, whose native birthplace was Alsace, France. Samuel Leeper has been a resident of St. Joseph county since he was about one year old, and in the public schools of South Bend he obtained his literary education, the old homestead being located adjacent to the town. He passed his earlier years in following the occupations which usually fall to the lot of the farmer boy, and until 1888 assisted in tilling the home farm, then decided that other occupations would suit him better, and in company with James D. Reid he established a brick manufactory, which is now carried on by him under the firm name of Leeper & Reid. Mr. Reid retired from the firm in January, 1892. The plant consists of the latest improved machinery, with a capacity of turning out 60,000 pressed brick per day, which gives employment to about fifty men. The annual output is about five millions, and as he is a manufacturer of the soundest judgment and marked executive capacity, he is specially qualified to guide aright such important interests as these. On the 9th of January, 1888, he was married to Miss Della M. Earl, who was born on the 16th of July, 1866, in Michigan, a daughter of David and Elsa (Relyea) Earl, natives of Michigan. Mr. and Mrs. Leeper are the parents of two children: Lena Leota, born October 6, 1889, and Kittie, born November 11, 1891. Mr. Leeper is a member in good standing of those worthy organizations, the K. of P. and Elks, and in politics is a Republican. The business with which he is connected is deserving of success, its product being preferred by the best class of trade, and Mr. Leeper may be considered an expert in all that concerns brick making.

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JOHN J. SCHINDLER is a well known official of Penn township, St. Joseph Co., Ind., and a son of Andrew Schindler, who was born in Baden, Germany, but who, in 1848, became a resident of the United States (at which time he was but sixteen years of age) and for some time thereafter he worked at the tailor's trade in Buffalo, N. Y. Upon reaching manhood Andrew Schindler was married to Miss Rosa Kuhn, a native of Switzerland, and a family of eight children was given to them, four of whom died young, and four lived to maturity: John J., Andrew J., William N. and Joseph J. Mr. Schindler and his family resided in Buffalo until 1864, when he removed to Dunkirk, N. Y., where his home continued to be until 1869, during which time he was successfully engaged in the hotel business. In that year Mishawaka became his home, and on Main street he opened a grocery and hotel, and by the exercise of much energy and by careful management he accumulated a substantial property. He died August 25, 1879, at the age of forty-nine years, an earnest member of the Catholic Church, of which his wife was also a member. John J. Schindler was born at Buffalo, N. Y., February 11, 1851, and received a good commercial education in St. Joseph Academy, of his native city. After coming to Mishawaka, at the age of twelve years he entered the service of his uncles, the Kuhn Bros., proprietors of the St. Joseph Flouring Mills, and continued with them for eight years, becoming thoroughly acquainted with the details of the flouring business. After the death of his father, he assumed the management of the hotel and grocery establishment, and successfully conducted both until 1879, when he engaged in the same business for himself and followed it until 1887, in addition to which he also did a general fire insurance business, was a steamship agent, and conducted a foreign exchange. In 1876 he was a notary public and conveyancer, in which office he continued until elected township trustee in 1888, by a majority of five votes. In 1890 he was re-elected by a majority of 419 votes, which would indicate that he has fined the office to the general satisfaction of the people. He was also admitted as an attorney in the Department of the Interior, Bureau of Pensions, in 1880, and by his untiring efforts he has had the best of success in securing pensions, bounty and war claims generally, which have brought relief to many an ex-soldier, his widow, or dependent relatives, and have earned for him many warm and lasting friends. He is secretary of the county board of education, has taken an active interest in the cause of education and organized the township libraries in the district schools, besides introducing the first books for these libraries, which are now in a flourishing condition, there being now over two thousand in circulation. The school at Osceola contains over four hundred volumes, and it is not unusual for the other districts of the township to have two hundred volumes in their libraries. The power for good wielded by these libraries, and the lasting influence they produce, can not be over estimated. In 1887 Mr. Schindler bought his present property of Dr. Van Pelt, consisting of a commodious residence and lot. He has largely increased his insurance business, and now represents twenty-five leading companies: the Royal, of Liverpool, England; The North British & Mercantile, of London and Edinboro; The Liverpool & Loudon & Globe, of England; The Etna, of Hartford, Conn.; Continental, of New York, and the Girard, of Philadelphia, being the principal ones. He also represents eight steamship companies, and issues letters of credit and bills of exchange on all the principal cities of Europe. His wife holds the office of notary public. They were married May 20, 1879, Mrs. Schindler's maiden name being Christina Fierstos, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth Fierstos. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Schindler: Aloysius J., born May 4, 1880; John W., born November 7, 1884, and Clara M., born October 26, 1887. Mr. Schindler is a member of the Catholic Knights of America, a benevolent and insurance company. He is a stanch Democrat, and he and his wife are devout Catholics. He possesses many noble traits of character, is entirely self-made, and owes his success in life, and the high estimation in which he is held by all who know him, to his manly course through life. He is interested in all good causes, and is one of the public-spirited men of Mishawaka. His integrity is above question, and the fine property of which he is the owner, has been well earned. Besides his residence property he owns a one-third interest in the St. Joseph Flouring Mills, and a business block in the town, in connection with his brothers, all of whom reside in Mishawaka except Andrew, who is a machinist of Chicago. Mrs. Schindler's father and mother came from Germany, the former becoming a farmer near Canton, Stark Co., Ohio, where they reared the following children: Elizabeth, Mary, Lena, Theresa, Martin, Joseph, George, Caroline, Christina and Mena.

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1893
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SAMUEL A. HILLIER is the very efficient and trusted secretary and treasurer of the South Bend Lumber Company, and owes his nativity to Burlington, N. J., where he was born October 30, 1850, to Richard A. and Frances (Stoll) Hillier, the mother being a native of Switzerland. Richard Hillier was born on the ocean while his parents were en route for America on a visit, but until he was about eighteen years of age he resided in England, and there obtained his scholastic education, although the practical part of his knowledge was obtained after his removal to America. He first settled in Philadelphia, where he conducted a shoe store for a number of years. Here he was married to Frances Stoll, who had come to this country with her parents at the age of nine years. A few years after his marriage Mr. Hillier removed to Burlington, N. J., where he at first devoted his attention to the shoe business, but not long afterward engaged in the real estate business, which he followed until his death, being classed among the successful business men in his line of his day. He was called from life in the month of March, 1872, his widow surviving him until October, 1890, when she too was called from this life. They were the parents of nine children: Harry, Joseph, Richard, Samuel, Anna, Fannie, Emelia, Maggie, Louisa. The subject of this sketch remained in his native town until he was eighteen years of age, then came to South Bend, and having been apprenticed to the carpenter's trade, he entered the employ of George Gore to complete the same, and at the expiration of two years began working for himself, continuing for about one year. Following this he began contracting and fulfilled his contracts in such a manner that he became very well and favorably known. He carried on this business with success for seven years, but in January, 1880, formed a partnership with W. R. Boyd, under the firm name of Boyd & Hillier. and engaged in the lumber business in connection with operating a planing-mill, in which business he is still engaged. The business is now conducted under the firm name of the South Bend Lumber Company, of which Mr. Hillier is secretary and treasurer. He is proving the right man in the right place, for he is faithful, industrious, painstaking and honest. The business is conducted on sound commercial principles, and as their prices are based an a scale of strict moderation, satisfaction is at all times assured. Mr. Hillier is a gentleman of rare business ability and the highest standing and is undoubtedly one of the leaders in his line of work in the city of South Bend. On the 8th of February, 1892, he was united in marriage to Miss Martha E. Elder, who was born January 7,1851, in South Bend, a daughter of John and Emily (Sweet) Elder, the former a native of Scotland and latter a native of Massachusetts. Mr. and Mrs. Hillier are the parents of five children: Ada, Edith, Forest, Glenn, Samuel D. In addition to his business in South Bend and his residence property, Mr. Hillier owns a half interest in a farm of 105 acres, south of the city limits, which is a valuable property. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum and in politics is a Republican. He has brought a wide range of practical experience to bear upon the lumber business and is proportionately prosperous.

“Pictorial and Biographical Memoirs of Elkhart and St. Joseph Counties, Indiana
Together with Biographies of Many Prominent Men of Northern Indiana and the Whole State, Both Living and Dead”
Goodspeed Brothers Publishers, Chicago
1893
John Morris Co. Printers and Binders


BARNEY C. SMITH. The creditable condition of mercantile life in South Bend, Ind., is due in a great extent to the enterprise, energy and intelligence of her prominent merchants and manufacturers. Among these may be mentioned the firm of Smith & Jackson, dealers in sash, doors, blinds and lumber, and these gentlemen have built up a trade of extensive proportions, and an enviable reputation for strictly honorable dealings on all occasions. They are located in convenient and suitable premises that are appropriately fitted up and they keep in stock every description of lumber in their line, which they are compelled to do by the heavy demands made upon them. Mr. Smith is a native of Germany where he was born in 1854, and when one year old he was brought by his parents, Jacob and Catherine (Beach) Smith, to the United States and with them located on a farm near South Bend, on which place the father died in 1869. On this farm Barney O. Smith was reared and during his boyhood many days of hard labor were spent in clearing land and tilling the soil. In 1875 he took up his residence in South Bend and until he engaged in busi¬ness for himself worked in a planing-mill belonging to N. Jackson, during which time he became familiar with the lumber business in all its phases and was well prepared to take upon himself the duties of that business when he did so. On the 30th of April, 1879, he was married to Miss Julia (Kimball) Harmon, widow of Edwin Harmon and daughter of Freeman Kimball. She is the mother of one child by her first husband, Cora Harmon, and she and Mr. Smith have an adopted daughter, taken from the Orphan's Home in 1885, and who is now eleven years of age. Mrs. Smith is a member of Grace Methodist Episcopal Church and Mr. Smith is a member of the K. of P. and Uniform Rank.

“Pictorial and Biographical Memoirs of Elkhart and St. Joseph Counties, Indiana
Together with Biographies of Many Prominent Men of Northern Indiana and the Whole State, Both Living and Dead”
Goodspeed Brothers Publishers, Chicago
1893
John Morris Co. Printers and Binders


NEWTON JACKSON, wholesale lumber dealer of South Bend. The lumber interests of South Bend, Ind., are second to no other city of the same size in the State, and one of the foremost houses, whose repntation has gone abroad, is that of Newton Jackson, who has been familiar with the lumber business from early manhood, for his father was for many years engaged in saw-milling about fourteen miles west of South Bend, and there young Newton was initiated into the details of lumber. He was born in Seneca county, Ohio. May 9, 1840, but with his parents became a resident of Indiana in 1854, and located on a large tract of timber land in St. Joseph county, which he assisted in clearing. His parents were John and Elizabeth (Eager) Jackson, the former of whom was Scotch and the latter of Irish descent. In 1874 Newton Jackson engaged in the furniture business in Elkhart and Mishawaka, the house being known as the Mishawaka Furniture Company. Upon moving to South Bend he opened a hard wood lumber yard in this city, and at the same time opened one in Des Moines, Iowa, but closed out the latter yard in 1879, however, continuing business in South Bend until 1886, when he sold his yard and engaged in the wholesale lumber business, which he has conducted in the most satisfactory manner up to the present time. He is an energetic and live business man, well known in commercial and financial circles and does a very large and constantly increasing business. He is a man of unquestioned reputation and is well deserving the success he enjoys. He was married in early manhood to Miss Caroline Deppen, by whom he became the father of four children: Charles H., Ella A., Sibyl and Irwin. The mother of these children died in July, 1877, and on September 19, 1878 he took for his second wife, Miss Ellen Smith who has borne him three children: Clement, Hallie and Edna. Mr. and Mrs. Jackson are members of the Methodist Church, and are highly respected by the citizens of South Bend. In 1881 Mr. Jackson was elected a county commissioner and filled the duties of this position with great credit for one term. Socially, he is a member of the Royal Arcanum.

“Pictorial and Biographical Memoirs of Elkhart and St. Joseph Counties, Indiana
Together with Biographies of Many Prominent Men of Northern Indiana and the Whole State, Both Living and Dead”
Goodspeed Brothers Publishers, Chicago
1893
John Morris Co. Printers and Binders


FRANCIS BLACK, Mishawaka, Ind. One of the few men now living, who served his country not only in the Civil war, but also in the Mexican war, is the gentleman of whom this sketch is written. His father, John Black, was a native of County Down, Ireland, and by trade was a weaver. He married and was the father of eight children, as follows: Isabel, Samuel, Mary, John, David, James, Hugh and Francis. In 1828 Mr. Black came to America, bringing with him his family, landing in Quebec and settling at St. Joseph, Mich. He came to Mishawaka in 1840 and made his home with his son, Samuel, and died in Middlebury, Ind., at the age of eighty-seven years at the home of his son, Francis, our subject. His wife had died in Ireland and both of them had been members of the Presbyterian Church. He was an industrious man, honest and respected by all who knew him. Francis Black was born in County Down, Ireland, May l7, 1824, and was four years of age when brought to this country by his parents. He received a limited common-school education in Mishawaka and learned the carpenter's trade. February 24, 1847, he enlisted in the Mexican war, in Capt. W. H. Walker's company, Sixth Regiment of Infantry and served until July 31, 1848. The winter of 1847-48 he was quartered with his company at Milwaukee, Wis., which, in the spring went to Newport, Ky., and thence down the Mississippi to New Orleans and then crossed the gulf. He participated in the battles of Cherubusco, Molino del Rey, Castle of Chapultapec and the siege and capture of the City of Mexico. He served under Gen. Worth and was present when Gen. Scott made his triumphant entry into Mexico. Mr. Black was quartered in the St. Francis Convent in Mexico for eight months and was then quartered sixty miles south of Taluca, Mexico, until peace was declared, when he came home with his regiment. The last two months of his service he served as cook for Gen. Hancock. for whom he has always entertained a high regard. After he returned to Mishawaka, he worked at his trade for some five months, but in 1849 he started across the plains to California, and was six months and four days on the way. He was one of the" Bristol Company," which consisted of sixteen wagons, each drawn by three yoke of oxen. They had no trouble with the Indians, although they met them. On one occasion they met a band of Sioux, and, after paying toll to the chief, of beads, tobacco, etc., amounting to about $6, they smoked the pipe of peace and were permitted to pass on their way. One of the young men ran a race with a young Indian, who wagered a buffalo skin against a satin vest, and the white man won the wager, much to the surprise of the Indians. Mr. Black mined for gold on the Bear River, Deer Creek, South Yuba River and at Coyote Diggings, in all about one year, but was not very successful. He then went to San Francisco and worked at his trade of carpenter, receiving $100 per month for nine months and then returned home, arriving in Mishawaka, December 28, 1852. He married Han¬nah, daughter of Jonathan and Annie (Mead) Buck, after which Mr. Black spent one year at Adrian, Mich., and then went to Middlebury, Ind., where he bought land and worked at his trade, remaining at this point eleven years. Following this he removed to Plymouth, Marshall Co., Ind., where he bought land and lived for eighteen years. On December 14, 1861, our subject enlisted in Company G, Forty-eighth Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served nine mouths. He was promoted to the office of orderly sergeant and participated in the battle of Iuka, Miss., but was taken sick at Paducah, Ky., and sent home on furlough, finally being discharged on account of disability. However, after he recovered he re-enlisted in 1865, entering the One Hundred and Fifty-first Regiment of Indiana Volunteer Infantry and served as sergeant for three months, being promoted May 25, 1865, at Tullahoma, Tenn., to the position of second lieutenant, remaining in the service until the close of the war. In May, 1865, his wife died and Mr. Black sent in his resignation and was honorably discharged. He continued to reside in Marshall county until 1882. Here he married Hannah, a daughter of Simeon Cudney, but she died and he later married Henrietta Ely, a widow, daughter of Philip and Elizabeth (Mosyer) Paul. In 1882 he came to Mishawaka and retired from active work. Both Mr. and Mrs. Black are members of the Presbyterian Church and socially he is a member of the G. A. R., being its present commander, having been the senior vice-commander and officer of the day of this post. He is much respected by all who have his acquaintance and has the confidence of the people, being one of the trustees of the town of Mishawaka. For many years he was a stanch Republican in his political opinions, but since his old commander became a candidate for the presidency he has voted the Democratic ticket. He was one of the members of the old lodge of Odd Fellows in Mishawaka. Mr. Black owns his residence and receives a liberal pension from the Government for his services to his country. He has always been an honored citizen and his patriotic services should entitle him to honorable consideration. He preserves his recollection of the stirring events through which he has passed, the like of which will never be seen on American soil again. Among the interesting reminiscences of his Mexican war experience Mr. Black tells of an occasion, while he was acting as orderly for Gen. Scott, of the stationing of the troops in the halls of the Montezumas. He was present on the morning when the American army retired from the City of Mexico, the American flag was lowered and the Mexican flag again waved over the ancient fortress. An earthquake occurred while the troops occupied the City of Mexico, which greatly alarmed the garrison and so injured the aqueduct that the water supply was for a time cut off. Concerning his early experience upon the great western plains, he tells of three men who died of cholera in their party. When the first gold agitation was started, he, with many others, went some one hundred and eighty miles beyond the Mississippi River on the way to Pike's Peak, but they met so many discouraged men returning that they gave up the trip. At that time buffalo were still plentiful. The first husband of the present Mrs. Black, was Isaac Ely, who was born in Logan county, Ohio, in 1831, and married Henrietta Paul, born December 25, 1836, in Richland county, Ohio, the marriage taking place October 8, 1857,and to them were born seven children. Two of these died in infancy, the names of all being: Louisa V., Alfaretta, Don C., William C., Charles, Ora and Orma. Mr. Ely was a blacksmith, by trade, lived in Ohio awhile after marriage, then came to Indiana and settled in Walkerton, St. Joseph county. He enlisted in 1862 in Logan county, Ohio, in the Fourteenth Ohio Battery, served over one year and was then discharged on account of disability. He re-enlisted February 25, 1864, in Company G, Seventeenth Regiment, and was discharged at Columbus, Ohio, May 13, 1865, having taken part in the battles of Pittsburg Landing and Chattanooga. He died in H576, in Marshall county, Ind., a member of the United Brethren Church, leaving behind him a record of an honest man and true patriot soldier. His health was destroyed in the army. Philip Paul, father of Mrs. Black, was born in Pennsylvania, learned the trade of tailor and married Elizabeth Moyer. They reared a family of twelve children: Daniel W., Susan, George, Lewis, Eliza, Henrietta, Julian and Joseph. This was a patriotic family, three of the sons, George, Lewis and Joseph serving through the war, George giving up his life. Three other nephews of Mrs. Black, John, James and -----, sons of her sister, Susan McDaniels, testified to their loyalty by becoming soldiers when the nation needed them. Philip Paul died in Richland county, Ohio, on the farm at the age of forty-one years, and his daughter, Julian, died unmarried.

“Pictorial and Biographical Memoirs of Elkhart and St. Joseph Counties, Indiana
Together with Biographies of Many Prominent Men of Northern Indiana and the Whole State, Both Living and Dead”
Goodspeed Brothers Publishers, Chicago
1893
John Morris Co. Printers and Binders


DARWIN H. BAKER (deceased). There is no inheritance so rich as the records of the worthy lives of those who have parted from this world and have gone to receive the reward which awaits them in Heaven. We all have strivings after a high ideal, but an ideal alone is of little value if not re-enforced by the example of those who, like ourselves have human frailties, yet have been enabled to so overcome them as to lead lives of usefulness, integrity and true godliness. That death loves a shining mark was painfully realized when it became known that Darwin H. Baker, one of South Bend's best known citizens and most successful business men, had passed to that bourne from whence no traveler returns. He had been ailing for about two weeks, but nothing about his case was considered alarming and he was expected soon to be able to be about again, but it was ere long found that those about him were mistaken, for it soon became evident that he was a very sick man. Any improvement in his condition seemed to be but transitory and it soon became certain that he was slowly and surely growing worse. Symptoms of the deadly Bright's disease were noted and the complication of extreme nervousness with the most aggravating of stomach disorders rapidly weakened the patient. The best physicians were employed, and although those who understood the condition of the patient had practically given up hope, none were prepared for the great shock that an experienced when they learned that Mr. Baker had been summoned to his final reward. The deep grief of the family bereft of a loving husband and father can not be described. Darwin H. Baker was born at Holly, New York, about April 1, 1832. His father was from Connecticut, and was born in 1793, while his mother was born in New York in 1797. He was the youngest of eight children, and the youngest of three brothers in this city, his other brothers in South Bend being Lester F., the oldest member of the family, and Albert N., who had been a partner with our subject in the boot and shoe business since 1861. Darwin Baker was an apt student, and finished his education at the age of fifteen years, when he went to Akron, Ohio, where he began his career in the boot and shoe trade, in which he continued up to the time of his death. He and his brother, Lester F., were attracted westward, and in 1852 came to South Bend, Ind., where they had friends and acquaintances, and entered into the business in which Mr. Baker spent three-fourths of his busy life. Both had gone to the then comparatively insignificant but growing city of Chicago, to look up business chances there, and had been offered land in what is today the best location in that city, but decided at last to cast their lot in South Bend. Mr. Baker often remarked that in not going to Chicago he had missed a grand opportunity, as there was a splendid field then opening up in that city. But South Bend was greatly the gainer and Mr. Baker became at once one of that city's busiest, most enterprising and public-spirited citizens. Success was with him from the start, and most earnestly did he labor to deserve and win that success. In the spring of 1857 he was united in marriage to Miss Kate Roberts, who survives the death of her husband to whom she was devotedly attached, and in whose success in life she had so greatly assisted. To them were born three children, who survive a kind, loving and indulgent father. They are: William R., Alice M. and Lizzie. Soon after coming to South Bend Mr. Baker identified himself with the First Methodist Church. From the start he was an active member and one whose abilities were ere long recognized in his appointment to an official position as steward of the First Methodist Episcopal Church in 1864, and trustee in September, 1879. He was for a long period recording steward and then became treasurer of the church, which position he faithfully filled up to life's close. He was an official member twenty-seven years and his farsightedness and able financial management has been a prominent factor in the success of the church of his choice. Mr. Baker was deeply interested in Sunday school work and for a long term of years had served as teacher of the Bible class, which had, during Mr. Baker's connection with it as teacher, contained many of our leading citizens in its membership. The deceased had a wide knowledge of the Scriptures which abundantly fitted him for the position. In church or out Mr. Baker was a considerate and consistent Christian. His able labors and valuable experience have been greatly missed by the First Methodist Episcopal Church. Besides his regular duties in the general business and as ad official member of the church, Mr. Baker was one of the organizers of the South Bend National Bank, which became one of the city's banking institutions in 1870. He was a director from the outset, being first associated with the late lamented John Brownfield, also ex-Mayor William Miller, Benjamin F. Price and Lucius G. Hubbard in that official capacity. Later he became vice-president of the bank and on the retirement of the late John Brownfield succeeded that gentleman as president, in which position he remained until the last. In this banking institution Mr. Baker's splendid business facilities were often shown and duly recognized. He was also a director in the old State Bank. About 1882 the manifold duties of one of the trustees of the immense estate left by the late Mr. S. M. Beeson, of Niles, imposed great additional burdens upon an already very busy man. But this did not deter Mr. Baker from accepting the responsible trust placed upon his shoulders, and in this as in every other position the confidence shown in his ability as a sagacious business man was fully sustained in the able manner in which every duty was performed, every interest carefully guarded. He was a trustee of this estate to the last. Mr. Baker was a man of the highest degree of business ability and integrity. He was a success in all his undertakings. In 1860 he built the residence now occupied by his widow on South Main street, and it was then without a superior and scarcely an equal in South Bend. The firm of D. H. Baker & Bro. have built up an immense business in their line and have been at all times considered among the soundest of South Bend's business institutions. His life was, however, too busy a one for his own physical endurance. After a sudden sickness a few years ago, Mr. Baker was not himself, so far as health was concerned, but all this time his duties were not lessening. Despite the fact that he had two or three ordinary men's duties devolving upon him, necessarily wearing upon his physical condition, his intimate friends would never have thought him to be within a month of sixty years of age. Mr. Baker was one of South Bend's most prominent Democrats, but never a seeker for office. He has been greatly missed on both sides. South Bend can ill afford to lose such a man. His son, William R. Baker, owes his nativity to South Bend, born October 24, 1861, and received his education in the schools of that city. In 1880 he entered his father's store and has been actively engaged in the boot and shoe business since. After his father's death he became a director in the South Bend National Bank and is connected with this at the present time. He was married on March 27, 1888, to Miss Anna M. Vinson, a native of this county and the daughter of Charles and Elizabeth Vinson, old settlers of this vicinity. They have one child, Ada Lucile, born April 27, 1889. Like his father he is a Democrat in politics, and socially he is a member of the K. of P., Crusade Lodge, No. 14. Mr. Baker is one of the prominent business men of the city and is as popular in social as in business circles.

“Pictorial and Biographical Memoirs of Elkhart and St. Joseph Counties, Indiana
Together with Biographies of Many Prominent Men of Northern Indiana and the Whole State, Both Living and Dead”
Goodspeed Brothers Publishers, Chicago
1893
John Morris Co. Printers and Binders


Deb Murray