COL. ISAIAH B. McDONALD is a native of the Old Dominion, his birth occurring at Woodville. Rappahannock Co., September 18, 1826. His parents - Carter and Elizabeth (Carder) McDonald - were natives of the same State, and both were of Scotch descent. Nine sons and three daughters were born to these parents, Col. McDonald being the second son and second child. In 1836, the family moved to Wayne County, Ohio, and, in 1842, to Whitley Co., Ind. For some years in early life, Col. McDonald worked as carpenter and joiner, but after he had attended two terms of the Edinburg Academy, Wayne County, Ohio, he became a successful school teacher, extending his services as such over Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana. In May, 1852, he returned to Whitley County, and soon after began the practice of law. During the same year, he secured the election as Prosecuting Attorney for the counties of Whitley and Noble, continuing to serve as such until 1855, when he was elected Clerk of Whitley County. From 1864 to 1870, he served as School Examiner of Whitley County, but resigned during December of the latter year, to accept the responsibilities of Representative in the State Legislature. He took a front rank in legislative debate, and was appointed Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee. 1876, he was Presidential Elector, and represented the Twelfth Congressional District in the National Democratic Convention, on which occasion he cast his vote for Tilden and Hendricks. He has filled many minor positions in county affairs, but always with that inflexible fidelity which has ever been a characteristic of the man. He is a Mason, an Odd Fellow and a Sachem of the Improved Order of Red Men. No man has done more for Columbia City and Whitley County than Col. McDonald. His success in life is mainly due to his extraordinary energy and in his determination to succeed. He is a strong Democrat, and has long been connected with the newspapers of the county, through the columns of which his individuality and influence have been widely felt. Col. McDonald has an excellent military record. During the entire rebellion, he was an earnest War Democrat. The wing of his party which declared the war a failure received no sympathy from him. He enlisted as a private at the first call to arms, but was chosen Second Lieutenant of Company E, Seventeenth Indiana Volunteers, going out as such to the field. He served his country until the autumn of 1864, when he resigned and came home, when, greatly to his pleasure and astonishment, he was presented with an elegant sword by the members of his command, who had sent the sword to Columbia City from the field, to be publicly presented to him on his arrival. Upon the sword were written, as follows, the battles in which he had fought:
Elk Water, Va.; Greenbrier, Va.; Camp Alleghany; McDowel1, Va.; Cross Keys; Cedar Mountain; Catlett's Station; Waterloo; Second Bull Run; and Winchester. In July, 1861, Lieut. McDonald was appointed Senior Aid de Camp and Chief of Staff to Gen. J. J. Reynolds, in Western Virginia. In Headley's History of the Rebellion, honorable mention is made of Lieut. McDonald, who at Camp Alleghany began the attack with a charge upon the rebels by moonlight. Gen. Milroy, in his report of the battle, had this to say of Col. McDonald: "I owe the warmest thanks to Lieut. McDonald, of your staff, for the able and efficient service which he rendered on the march and in the action by his activity, bravery and coolness in leading and rallying the troops." In January, 1862, he was transferred to the staff of Gen. Milroy, and served with him through the Virginia campaigns of 1862-63, as Captain and Commissary of Subsistence. In August, 1862, when Gen. Pope's trains were captured at Catlett's Station, a correspondent of the Philadelphia Inquirer wrote as follows: "During the onset of the rebels, after the wagons of Pope's train had been fired, they started from the road to where Gen. Milroy's trains lay, intending to pay their attention to them, but they were promptly met by a guard of about one hundred men, headed by the gallant Capt. I. B. McDonald, Commissary of Milroy's brigade. His bravery and determination saved the train." Gen. Milroy said of the Second Bull Run fight: "I avail myself of this opportunity to return my thanks to the members of my staff - Capts. Baird, Flesher and McDonald and Lieut. Cravens." The following is the dispatch which led to Capt. McDonald's promotion:
BLOODY RUN, Bedford Co. Penn., June 20, 1863. Governor of West Virginia. Wheeling, Va:
I am at this place with nearly half my command, including most of the Twelfth Virginia. Capt. I. B. McDonald, my Commissary, is with me, and is the only staff officer of my command who saved all his papers and money. His conduct in the battles of Sunday and Monday last was most gallant and praiseworthy, and any promotion you can give him would be well deserved and most gratifying to me. He would make a splendid Colonel for my gallant old Third Virginia.
[Signed) R. H. MILROY, Major General.

He was advanced to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel some months later; but, as above stated, returned home in autumn, 1864, after an active military career of three years and four months. He handled millions of dollars of government property and large sums of money, and has numerous private letters from his superior officers, to whom his accounts were rendered when he resigned, attesting his honesty and fidelity. Col. McDonald takes no greater pride than in exhibiting his many letters from the parents or other relatives of boys whom he cared for during his leisure hours, while they were burning with fever in the hospitals or tortured with agony while lying wounded and helpless on the battle-field. The following letters are two of many. In 1864, a young soldier at Cumberland, Md., by the name of Burton Reynolds, of the Fifteenth New York Cavalry, took sick, and requested Col. McDonald to send for his mother. She came on, but the boy grew worse, and was taken home to New York. Mrs. Reynolds was without friends or means, but Col. McDonald gave her money and assisted her in getting her boy home to die. The following is a letter from the mother of the dying young soldier:
CAMILLUS, N. Y, June --, 1864.
Lieut. Col. McDonald:
DEAR SIR-We have delayed writing to you this long, hoping that we might be able to say our son is getting well; but, alas! we fear this is not to be. He is very sick with typhoid fever -seems rapidly passing away. He has spoken of you often; says he shall ever love you for your kindness to him. To-day he wished that he had a picture of you, that he might never forget your looks. I will not attempt to express our gratitude to you for all that you did for us in that dark and trying hour. If you ever visit New York, don't fail of letting us see you.
Yours, with respect, MRS. G. D. REYNOLDS.

Another letter was received from the same lady, announcing and deploring the death of her boy soldier and repeating her expressions of gratitude and friendship. The following letter, written by the brother of another poor soldier boy, who had been kindly cared for by Col. McDonald, explains itself. It will be observed that the writer was once Secretary of the United States Navy:
CLARKSBURG, W. Va., September 8, 1863.
Capt. McDonald:
MY DEAR SIR - I desire to return to you my lasting regards and the sincerest and lasting thanks of my mother, for your unceasing attentions to her during the illness of my brother, and for your many acts of kindness and friendship at his death. I met my mother and Clay's corpse at Grafton, on Sunday, the 6th inst. Owing to your sympathy, kindness and energy, all the necessary arrangements had been made, and much of the grief natural to a fond mother over the death of a son was assuaged by your attentions, gentlemanly deportment and management. We reached home Sunday evening at 5 o'clock P. M. Matters were immediately taken in hand by the military of the place, and Clay was buried by them on Monday morning at 10 o'clock. My father and mother desire to be kindly remembered.
Believe me, Captain, truly your friend, N. GOFF.

These and other letters similar in nature show the sympathy which Col. McDonald had for his suffering and unfortunate fellow soldiers. Notwithstanding the pressure of his duties, he found time to visit the hospitals of pain and cheer the hearts of many poor soldiers with the thought of life and the dear ones at home. He made friends wherever he moved by the sterling qualities of his character. While Commissary of Subsistence, he did all in his power to have an abundance of stores on hand. The following is interesting in this connection:
HEADQUARTERS MILROY'S INDEPENDENT BRIGADE, Woodville, Va., July 31, 1862.
To all Whom it May Concern:
Having, from time to time, ever since we have been connected with Gen. R. H. Milroy's Brigade, in Western as well as Eastern Virginia, noticed the constant and untiring efforts, as well as the proper deportment of Capt. Isaiah B. McDonald, C. S., in endeavoring to obtain the necessary supplies for his brigade, we, the Chaplains of the Second and Third Regiments of Virginia Volunteer Infantry, most cheerfully acknowledge the kind appreciation of his success in supplying the wants of both men and officers of the said regiments, of which we have the honor of being Chaplains. Therefore, we feel safe in recommending him to the confidence of all true and loyal men wherever his lot may be cast.
JAMES W. CURRY, Chaplain Third Regiment Virginia Volunteers. JAMES W. W. BOLTON, Chaplain Second Regiment Virginia Volunteers.

Mrs. Catharine (Brenneman) McDonald, wife of Col. McDonald, is the second daughter and third child of Abraham and Elizabeth Brenneman, and was born near Lancaster, Penn., July 6, 1827. She went to Champaign County, Ohio, in 1836, but came to Whitley County in 1851 . Her marriage with Col. McDonald occurred November 28, 1854, since which time she has resided in Columbia City. She is the mother of four children, all boys, as follows: James Eli McDonald, late teacher of the Columbia City High School, and now half-owner and business manager of the Ligonier Banner. He was c1erk of Columbia City, and is now about twenty-seven years of age. Charles Emmett McDonald, second son, is a school teacher, and is at present local editor of the Columbia City Herald. His age is twenty-five. Abraham Carter McDonald, third son, aged seventeen, is now attending the Columbia City High School, and stands well in his classes. Frank Warren McDonald, the fourth and youngest son, is fifteen years of age, is a bright little fellow, and is now learning the printing business. Co1. McDonald may justly attribute much of his success in life to the worthy and amiable lady who for so many years has "doubled his pleasures and his cares divided."

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


E. L. McLALLEN, son of Henry and Frances M. (Lyman) McLallen, was born February 2, 1836, in Tompkins Co., N. Y. His father was of Scotch and his mother of English descent; parents of twelve children, only three of whom survive - Margaret A., the wife of David B. Clugston, of Larwill, and the two sons, E. L. and Henry. From New York the family emigrated to Whitley County, Ind., in 1844. The father was engaged in the grain and commission trade on Cayuga Lake, N. Y., but, after coming to Indiana, turned his attention to farming, and afterward merchandising in Tompkins County, N. Y. He was born August 3, 1808, and died October 30, 1875. Mrs. McLallen was born in Franklin County, Mass., May 7, 1807, and is yet living in Columbia City. They were married about 1831. During the building of the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad, E. L. McLallen was one of the corps of civil engineers for that company; he was engaged in various business affairs in Whitley County until 1874, when, with his brother, he removed to Columbia City and engaged in banking under the firm name of E. L. McLallen & Co. They are among the leading business houses of this city, and have met with deserved success. E. L. McLallen is a prominent member of the Masonic Fraternity, having taken the highest degrees of that order possible in this country.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


HENRY McLALLEN was born August 2,1841, in Trumansburg, N. Y., and came with his parents to Indiana in 1844, where he has since resided. His literary education, like that of his brother E. L., was derived from the schools of that day, combined with home instruction. He took a thorough course in the Indianapolis Business College, and, from 1860 to 1870, was engaged at Larwill by the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & C. R. R. Company. He was then elected Treasurer of Whitley County, and re-elected upon the expiration of his term of two years. In 1874, he became a member of the banking firm of E. L. McLallen & Co., in which business he has since been engaged. His wife was Miss Lavinia C. Clugston, to whom he was married June 7, 1866. She was born in New Castle County, Del., June 7, 1842, and died April 14, 1880, leaving a family of four children - Elisha L., Walter F., Henry DeWitt and Marshall Carr. Both Mr. McLallen and wife were members of the M. E. Church. Mr. McLallen is an esteemed brother of the Masonic Order, and a member of the Commandery at Fort Wayne. He also belongs to the I. O. O. F., and has passed through both subordinate lodge and Encampment.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


WILLIAM E. MERRIMAN came to Whitley County, Ind., from Wayne County, Ohio, in October, 1847, and purchased eighty acres of land in Washington Township. The winter following, he taught school in La Grange County, returning to Whitley County the next spring with the intention of making a permanent home. He was there united in marriage, April 6, 1851, to Miss Marguerite Shavey, a native of France, who was born August 4, 1824. He worked on his place, improving and clearing, until 1859, when he was elected County Clerk of Whitley County by the Democratic party, in which capacity he served for four years, in the meantime selling his property in Washington Township and purchasing land, of which he now owns 315 acres in Union Township, where he removed with his family in April, 1864, and where he still resides. Served as Township Trustee from April 4, 1867, to October 19, 1874. He was elected Representative of Whitley County in October, 1876, and served one term. In April, 1881, he was appointed County Auditor to fill the vacancy caused by the death of William H. Rutter, in which capacity he is now acting. He was born in Wayne County, Ohio, September 19, 1822, and is a son of Elisha and Penelope (Emerson) Merriman, who were natives respectively of Pennsylvania and Virginia, and parents of eight children, six yet living. Soon after the marriage of the parents they emigrated to Wayne County, Ohio, for the purpose of making a home, and located on a farm, while the country was in a very unsettled condition. Here the mother died in May, 1861, at the advanced age of sixty-eight years. Mr. Merriman, after the death of his wife, removed from Wayne County, Ohio, with his children and settled with them in Washington Township, Whitley County, where he passed away at the home of his son James, in October, 1869, aged seventy-eight years. William E. and wife have a family of five children Origen (deceased), Catherine, Penelope (deceased), James S. and Franklin. Two of the children - Catherine and James - are married, and reside in Whitley County. Mr. Merriman is a Democrat, and an honored member of the A. F. & A. M.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


ALF MILLER is a native of Stark County, Ohio, and the son of George F. and Elizabeth (Snyder) Miller, natives of Pennsylvania and Maryland. They came to this State in 1845, settling in Wells County, and four years later moved to Huntington County. In 1856, they went to Iowa; in 1857, returned to La Porte County, this State, and in 1858 came to Whitley, where the father died. There were nine children in the family, six of whom are still living, viz., Jeremiah, Jacob, Alexander, our subject, Martha McHenry and Louisa D. Prickett. Our subject learned blacksmithing in this county, which trade he followed for sixteen years, but is now proprietor of the "Occidental Billiard Hall and Saloon," his chief business being the running of his billiard tables, of which he has four, and with which he is doing a fine trade. In 1865, he married Miss Isabelle Cleland, a native of Whitley County, and born March 23, 1848. They have five children, viz.: Willmetta, born in Larwill, December 28, 1868; Jacob W., January 12, 1874; Etheline, March 2, 1876; Charles, October 13, 1877, all three in Columbia City; Jeremiah, April 27, 1879, in Huntington County. Mr. Miller is a Mason, and his establishment is carried on with the strictest regard to propriety.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


DR. A. P. MITTEN is a native of Knox County, Ohio, where he was born January 19,1845. His father, James Mitten, was a native of Westminster, Md., a carpenter by trade. He married Sarah A. Price, in Richland County, Ohio, after which he moved to Knox County, and in 1845 emigrated to, Huntington County, Ind., and in 1852 removed to Huntington, where he afterward died in the fifty-sixth year of his age, and where his widow yet resides. Their family consisted of nine children, Dr. A. P. Mitten being the fourth child and first son. He came to Indiana with his parents and remained with them until manhood, receiving a good education in the public and select schools of Huntington. In the fall of 1862, he began the study of medicine with Dr. D. S. Leyman, continuing with him four years. The winter of 1865-66, he attended lectures at Rush Medical College in Chicago, and again in 1866-67, graduating at the close of the term. He then came to Columbia City and formed a partnership with Dr. D. G. Linvill, remaining until the winter of 1872-73, when he went to Bellevue Medical College, New York, taking both a regular and special course; devoting himself particularly to surgery and diseases of women and children, he graduated at that institution, and returned to Columbia City, where has since been successfully engaged in the practice of his profession, in which he is an indefatigable worker. He was married, August 31, 1876, to Sarah E. Linvill, oldest daughter of Dr. D. G. Linvill, his former partner. This lady was born in Columbia City April 11, 1859; is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and the mother of one son, Frank Linvill. Dr. Mitten is a Republican, a member of the I. O. O. F., and also of the O. F. Encampment, a member of the Presbyterian Church, and a most excellent and honorable man.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


GEORGE W. NORTH was born in Pennsylvania February 22, 1844, and is a son of John and Rachel (Sensebaugh) North, who are natives of Pennsylvania, and parents of eight children, five yet living. They were married in Pennsylvania March 18, 1824, and removed from that State to Stark Co., Ohio, in the spring of 1850. The father, next winter, removed to Indiana, and located in Columbia Township, where he purchased 160 acres of land, that that he might give his children better opportunities for beginning life. He was a man of broad and decided views, and confined to no party or creed - a man of honor, and possessed the unbounded confidence and esteem of all who knew him. He filled various offices in the gift of the people of his township satisfactorily, and died November 21, 1879, aged eighty-one years. His widow yet survives, and is a resident of Whitley County. G. W. North came with his parents to Whitley County in 18150, and was reared and educated on the farm, two miles east of Columbia City. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company K, Eighty-eighth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, as private; went to the front with his regiment, and participated in the battles of Chickamauga, McLimore's Cove and Resaca; received a wound in the hand at Resaca, and was severely wounded in the side at Chickamauga, from which he is yet a sufferer. His brother Edward, who enlisted in Company F, One Hundredth I. V. I., died in the service. After he returned from the army, he attended school, taught school and worked on the farm until 1874, when he opened a first-class hardware store in Columbia City, which business he has since successfully followed. He was married, in 1869, to Miss A. T. Harley, who died the year following. In .January, 1882, Mr. North married his present wife, Miss Anna Rice. He is a Republican and a member of the A. F. & A. M. Like his father, he began life dependent on his own resources, and by his own unaided efforts has attained a position of prosperity and success.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


WALTER OLDS was born in Delaware (now Morrow) County, Ohio, August 11, 1846. He is the youngest of eleven children, five of whom are yet living, born to Benjamin and Abigail (Washburne) Olds, natives respectively of Pennsylvania and New York. They came to Ohio at an early day, where the father died in November, 1862; the mother is yet living. Walter Olds availed himself of the advantages of the public and union schools of Mt. Gilead. In July, 1864, he enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and Seventy-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Participating in several severe skirmishes and engagments, he was discharged at the close of the war. After the war, he attended for some time the schools of Columbus, Ohio, and, in 1867, began reading law in the office of Olds & Dickey, of Mt. Gilead. In January, 1869, he was admitted to the bar in the Supreme Court, and, in April, 1869, came to Columbia City and formed a partnership with Hon. A. Y. Hooper (since deceased) in the practice of law. Since coming here, Mr. Olds has devoted himself to the practice of his profession. He is a Republican in politics, and, in 1876, was elected a member of the State Senate, to represent the counties of Whitley and Kosciusko. In July, 1873, he was married to Marie J. Merritt, daughter of Zenas L. and Martha L. (Patterson) Merritt, and to them has been born one son - Lee M. Mrs. Olds is a native of Morrow County, Ohio, where she was born December 4, 1850.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


S. J. PEABODY was born in Noble County, Ind., September 29, 1851, and was one of eleven children, two yet living, born to John L. and Hannah (Ayers) Peabody; the former born in Pompton, N. J., January 12, 1812, and dying at Arcola, Allen County Ind., September 13, 1865; and the latter born in Pompton December 28, 1818. After their marriage, they lived in New York City till May, 1841, when they moved to Huron County, Ohio, and thence to Noble County, Ind., in 1843, where Mr. Peabody engaged in farming till 1851, when he moved to Arcola, Allen County, and entered the lumber trade. S. J. Peabody was reared in Allen County, where he received a good practical education. At the age of fifteen, he began doing for himself, running an engine, acting as head sawyer, etc., thus acquiring sufficient means to establish a shingle factory at Arcola, in 1869, which he ran for two years. In 1871, he moved to Taylor, this county, where he established a saw-mill; leaving this in charge of a nephew, George Peabody, he came to Columbia City and engaged in a general lumber trade, which he has since continued with success, his last year's shipments amounting to 1,200 car loads, or a total of 7,000,000 feet. Beginning life with nothing, he now owns, besides his lumber interests, over 1,100 acres of land. When he came to Columbia City in 1879, his brother, J. B., came with him, and together they purchased two saw-mills, but have since disposed of one. May 22, 1875, our subject married Miss Hannah S. Swift, who was born in Wareham, Mass., and a lineal descendant of Peregrine White, the first child born in this country of the Mayflower Pilgrims. Mrs. Peabody bore her husband one child, Lina Genevieve, who was born April 8, 1876, and who died February 20, 1879, the mother following a month later.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


C. H. POND, architect and builder, was born in Connecticut, the son of Charles and Florilla (Preston) Pond, who both died when our subject was quite young. He began his young life, on his own resources, by working on a farm at the age of fifteen; a year later he tried clockmaking; then went to learn carpentering, serving two years. He followed this trade several years in Wisconsin, Wayne County, Ohio, etc., and in 1855 came to Columbia City, where he has since remained, with the exception of three years passed in Chicago. During his residence in Columbia City he was engaged for five years clerking in a drug store, but the balance of the time has been passed at his present business. He has planned and erected some of the leading and many of the best buildings in the town. He married, in 18H, Miss Jane Hartsock, a native of Ohio, and to their union were born four children, viz.: Rodney D. (deceased), Sumner (who died at the age of twelve), Florilla and Olen J. Both he and wife are members of the Baptist Church; he is a Mason in the ninth degree, and has filled various offices in that fraternity - as Master of his lodge and as High Priest in his Chapter - and is now filling the office of Secretary of both lodge and chapter. As an architect, Mr. Pond has fine natural talents, and the many plans, drawings, etc., in his possession, all designed and executed by himself, evidence the highest degree of merit.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


I. W. PRICKETT was born in Clark County, Ohio, the son of John and Sarah (Wood) Prickett, natives respectively of Ohio and New Jersey. They were married in Ohio and followed farming there until 1836, when they came to Indiana, and the father entered largely into wild lands in Kosciusko County, and in Sparta and Washington Townships, Noble County, taking up their residence in the last named township, where the remainder of their lives was passed, both dying in the Free-Will Baptist faith, the first church of which denomination in Noble County was located by Mr. Prickett. Their deaths occurred respectively in 1854 and 1855, and they had a family of eleven children, seven of whom reached maturity, viz.: Jane Voris, Isaac W., Jacob P., William, Mary Metz, Thomas and Ann Beezley. Our subject was only three years old when he came to the county with his parents, with whom he remained till nineteen, and then went to Springfield, Clark County, Ohio, and learned the saddler's trade. He next took up his residence in Wabash County, Ind., for one year; then went to South Whitley and engaged in trade, and in 1874 came to Columbia City, where he has built up a fine trade. He has a large salesroom, a brick block, and carries an extensive assortment of harness, saddlery, trunks, robes, etc. He was married, in 1855, to Miss Lois Martin, a native of Troy Township, and they have had four children, viz.: Herschel, Estelle Peabody, Walter and Stephena.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


JACOB RAMP, dealer in lumber and manufacturer of barrel hoops, was born in Cumberland County, Penn., and was the son of Philip and Elizabeth (Markward) Ramp, early settlers in this county. He resided on his father's farm in Pennsylvania till eighteen years of age, and then went to learn the coachmakers' trade, at which he served four years, and afterward worked at carpentering for five years. The next seven years he followed farming. and in 1864 came to Indiana and engaged in the lumber business, which he has ever since followed, with the exception of two and a half years passed on his farm in Richland Township, this county, which he still owns and which comprises 160 acres of well-improved land. In the spring of 1882, he added to his lumber trade the manufacture of barrel hoops and is now steadily pushing that department. He has served in the Corporation Council two years, as School Trustee three years, and was once elected Justice of the Peace, but did not serve. In 1852, he married Miss Rebecca Grawbaugh, a native of Cumberland County, Penn. They have five children living, viz.: Margaret M. Bodley, George W., Martha E., Laura F. and Philip G. One son, Joseph E., twenty-one years of age, in August, 1881, was killed in his father's mill. Mr. Ramp is a member of the I. O. O. F., and, with his wife, a member of the Lutheran Church, and is regarded as one of Columbia's most enterprising citizens.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


PHILIP RAMP is a wholesale and retail dealer in lumber, and runs a saw-mill and planing mill in Columbia City. His parents, Philip and Elizabeth (Markward) Ramp, were natives of Cumberland County, Penn., and came to Troy (now Richland) Township, this county, and settled on a farm in 1853, where the mother died in 1869. The father died while on a visit to Pennsylvania in 1863. Both were members of the German Reformed Church. They had seven children, as follows: Isaac, now in Southern Indiana; Philip; Jacob; William; Margaret Dennis, of Huntington County; Abram, in Illinois, and Samuel. Our subject was born in 1828, in Cumberland County, Penn., worked on the farm till 1850, when he started for himself and came to this State, where, for three years, he hired out as a farmer. Then he farmed for himself awhile in Union Township; went to Iowa, remained six years, and then came to Columbia City in 1861. In 1862, he commenced his present business, and has energetically pursued it, so that he now constantly employs ten or twelve assistants. He does quite a shipping business, and his mills are always busy. In February, 1851, he married Rachel North, a native of Westmoreland, Penn., and of their offspring five are living, viz.: Frank, Elizabeth, Al., H., Edward and George W. He and wife are members of the Lutheran Church, and the family are regarded with respect and esteem by their neighbors and the citizens generally.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


BENJAMIN RAUPFER was born in Baden, Germany, November 3, 1838, was reared and received a good education in his native town. His father, Peter Raupfer, died in 1851, and that fall our subject went to Switzerland and engaged in teaming and selling silks and other goods, continuing thereat until 1865, when he embarked at Havre de Grace on the English ship "Belonia," bound for New York. After a stormy voyage of twenty-two days, he arrived in safety at his destination and soon after came to Columbia City, and took charge of an engine, which he ran for three years. He then opened a saloon, which he managed until 1879, when, in partnership with Fred Walter, he purchased the "Eagle" beer brewery, which the new firm enlarged and remodeled, and converted into one of the finest in the country, giving it a capacity of 6,000 barrels per annum, and the product is pronounced to be the best in Northern Indiana. In 1869, November 9, he married Mary Myers, who has borne him two children, Joseph and William, and the family are highly respected.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


JAMES REIDER was born in Wayne County, Ohio, February 19, 1841, and is a son of Christian and Martha Reider, who were natives respectively of Pennsylvania and Ohio, and were the parents of a family of eight children, all living. The father was a farmer and stock-dealer by occupation through life. He removed with his parents to Wayne County, Ohio, from Dauphin County, Penn., when twelve years of age, and subsequently married there, and came with his family to Columbia City, Ind., in 1865, where he died June 10, 1873. His widow yet lives in Columbia City. James was reared on a farm, receiving a good education, and was married February 25, 1864, to Mary M. Kister, of Wayne County, and in May of the same year enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and Sixty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry; was assigned to the Army of the Potomac, stationed at Fort Ethan Allen, Va., and discharged September 10, 1864, after which he removed to Whitley County, Ind., where he has since resided, farming in Columbia Township until 1869. He then removed to Thorn Creek Township, remaining until 1872, when he returned to his former farm, remaining until the fall of 1874, when he was elected County Clerk, and after his term of four years had expired, engaged in the hardware trade, and is now a member of the firm of Knisely, Reider & Co., doing good business in hardware and agricultural implements. Mr. Reider is Democratic in politics. Himself and wife are members of the Baptist Church, and have a family of four children, viz.: Eddie W. and Otto F., twins; Harry W. and Lula M.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


JOHN RHODES is a native of Franklin County, Ohio, where he was born, November 9, 1814, and is one of eight children (four yet living) born to Peter and Catherine (Holfman) Rhodes, who were both natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. Peter Rhodes followed distilling and weaving in earlier life, but after his marriage, moved to Franklin County, and engaged in farming. He served in the war of 1812, moved to Putnam County, Ohio, where he died in 1838, and his widow the year following. John Rhodes remained on the farm until 1837, receiving but a limited education. At the age of twenty-three, he began learning the mill-wright trade, and at the age of twenty-five had thoroughly mastered the business. In March, 1839, he contracted marriage with Mary Ann Clevinger, who died in 1840. In July, 1841, he came to Columbia City, purchased the lot he now owns, cleared up the trees, and erected a frame building, 18x36 feet, one story. He then returned to Ohio, and in December, 1841, was married to Ann Enslen, returning in August, 1842, to Columbia City, which, at that time, was a comparatively new country. Since then, by industry, economy and energy, he has become one of the most substantial citizens. Himself and wife were parents of four children - Francis L., Sarah E., Alfaretta A. and Edith A. Of these, only two are living, Francis, who married Lillie Cunningham, and Edith A., now Mrs. Ruch. The mother died November 22, 1874.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


CHARLES RUCH is the son of Jacob and Hannah (Walter) Ruch, and was born in Augusta Township, Northumberland Co., Penn., November 1, 1808. His parents were natives of Pennsylvania, and of German and English descent respectively. Their family consisted of eight children, five of whom are yet living. The occupation of the father was that of stone-mason, but in later years he engaged in farming, which he followed until his death. Charles Ruch was reared on the farm until eighteen years of age, receiving the ordinary common-school advantages. He learned the cabinet-maker's trade, working at that several years. He then read medicine for two years, but discontinued that, finding the occupation of house-painting and paper-hanging more lucrative. In 1838, December 4, he was married to Sarah N. Fertig, and engaged for some years afterward in mercantile pursuits. In 1845 (October), he came to Fort Wayne, where he followed cabinet-making. In March, 1849, he removed to Smith Township to settle his father's estate, where he remained until November 1854, when he moved to Columbia City, which has since been his home. Here he engaged respectively in painting, livery business, merchandising, etc. Mr. Ruch began life on the bottom round of the ladder, and, by strict integrity and perseverance, has acquired a competence, and a character fully in sympathy with all laudable and progressive enterprises. Democratic in politics, he served as Postmaster in Columbia City for two years under Pierce's administration. Of a family of thirteen children born to Mr. and Mrs. Ruch, only the following survive, viz.: Albert F.; Margaret L., now Mrs. Lowdenslager; Mary K., now Mrs. Heitzfeld; Joseph H.; George W.; Jacob A., and Ann E., now Mrs. Heacock. Both Mr. and Mrs. Ruch are members of the Lutheran faith. The two sons, Joseph H. and George W., own and operate one of the leading drug stores in Columbia City. They are also proprietors of a new grocery-house, where everything pertaining to a first-class business is found. Their success is no doubt due to their unvarying fair dealing, liberality and enterprise-characteristics of the family.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


I. B. RUSH came with his parents to Grant County, Ind., in early life, where he remained on the farm until twenty-five years of age. He then went West, but returned in 1859, and in response to President Lincoln's first call for troops in 1861, volunteered, went to Indianapolis, was sworn into service, but the volunteers exceeding the number required, many were debarred from active service, and Mr. Rush returned home, re-enlisted in August, 1861, in Company F, Thirty-fourth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, as private; was immediately sent to the front, commissioned Sergeant Major, and entered active service. In June, 1862, was promoted to Second Lieutenancy. In August, 1863, was made First Lieutenant and Adjutant of his regiment, and soon after was placed on detached service on staff duty, serving as Assistant Adjutant General to Brig. Gen. E. B. Brown, of St. Louis. Mr. Rush participated in all the important engagements from Cairo to New Orleans, including the siege of Vicksburg. He was also at Fort Donelson, Port Hudson, Champion Hills, and the capture of Jackson, Miss. At Champion Hills he was severely wounded in the right knee, from the effects of which he yet suffers. While at Vicksburg, Mr. Rush was detailed on "Flag of Truce Duty," and sent into the interior by Gen. Grant's orders. Mr. R. still preserves these orders in the General's own handwriting . He participated in the very last battle of the war, on the grounds of Palo Alto, where Gen. Taylor fought his celebrated battle in 1847, and was mustered out of service in 1866, when he returned home, remaining until 1869, when he came to Columbia City and accepted the position he now holds in the Columbia City Bank, where he has since remained. Mr. Rush was born in Randolph County, N. C., June 11, 1833, and is the oldest child of Nixon and Demaris (Byrne) Rush, who were natives of North Carolina, and of English and German-Irish descent respectively, and both families of Revolutionary war memory, both great-grandfathers, Rush and Byrne, serving in the struggle between the Colonies and Great Britain, and both grandfathers serving in the war of 1812. Nixon Rush was reared in the South, on his grandfather's large plantation, where he held ownership in sixty-eight slaves, to all of whom he gave their freedom in 1835. Thirty-eight of these were sent to Indiana with Nixon Rush, their expenses being paid by his father. They were left in Orange County. All took their old master's name, and many have attained considerable prominence among the colored people. Nixon Rush and wife are both living in Grant County. Mr. I. B. Rush was married in June, 1870, to Nancy Elliott, of Beaver, Penn., and their family consists of two daughters, Demaris and Margaret. Mr. Rush is a Republican, and Mrs. Rush is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


WILLIAM SELL was born in Stark County, Ohio, August 2, 1837, one of ten children (five of whom only are now living), born to Henry B. and Nancy (Eberhart) Sell, natives of Pennsylvania and Maryland, and of German descent. Henry B. Sell was a farmer by occupation, and at the age of seventeen moved to Stark County, Ohio, and at nineteen was married. On his arrival in Ohio, he had only 25 cents, and at the time of his marriage had earned enough to buy a pair of young steers. He worked at clearing, etc., till 1844, when he came to Indiana, stopping at Fort Wayne, Liberty Mills, and finally in Columbia Township, where he purchased some land and went through all the hardships incident to pioneer life, and by persistent labor acquired 845 acres of good land. His wife, who ably assisted him in all his undertakings, died about the year 1872, Mr. Sell ,surviving her about four years and dying in 1876. They were members respectively of the Lutheran and Presbyterian Churches, and had the respect of all who knew them. Our subject, William Sell, was reared in Whitley County, from the age of six years, and obtained his education at the common schools. September 2, 1860, he married Miss Martha Jane Riteneour, and to their union were born seven children, viz.: Benjamin F., Henry J., William J., Catharine, Charley (deceased), Milledore and Theodore, twins, the last now dead. The mother died in August, 1871, and Mr. Sell married his present wife, Miss Anna Riteneour, sister of his deceased wife, who has borne him four children-Cora A., Irvin (deceased), Fanny (deceased) and Oscar. Mr: Sell owns and works 160 acres of land in the township, and is doing a good business in town, in handling all the latest and best improved agricultural machinery known to the trade. He is a Democrat, and a member of the Lutheran Church.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


CAPT. PETER SIMONSON (deceased) was a native of New Jersey, and studied civil engineering at Providence, R. 1. At the age of fourteen, he had become so proficient that, with an odometer, he traversed and measured" Little Rhody," and drew a very accurate map of the State. At the age of eighteen, he was a man in form, and could scarcely be surpassed in his occupation as civil engineer. He went to Ohio, and was given charge of a division of construction on what is now the Pennsylvania Railroad. Shortly after this, in company with William P. Shinn, who is now one of the wealthy manufacturers of St. Louis, and several other young engineers, he came to Indiana (1855), and was given charge of a division on the then Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad. He remained with this road until it was finished, and then engaged for a short time in the lumber and saw-mill business, and was placed about $5,000 in debt. After this he was again in the employ of the railroad last mentioned, furnishing fencing, telegraph poles, and wood for repair work, from Crestline to Chicago. He thus not only paid his debts, but had some money besides. At this time the rebellion burst forth, and he began raising the Fifth Indiana Light Artillery. One hundred and forty-eight men were enlisted in Whitley, Noble, Kosciusko and Allen Counties, and, under the command of Capt. Simonson, marched to the field. The movements of this battery will be found narrated in the military chapter of this volume. After three years' service, he was appointed Chief of Artillery of the Second Division of the Fourth Army Corps, the highest possible promotion in the artillery service. This gave him command of thirty-six guns. It was under his express orders that the shot was fired which instantly killed the rebel Gen. Polk. He was a natural leader, brave, honest and intensely loyal; but at last, at Marietta, Ga., while placing his battery in an exposed but excellent position, he was killed instantly by a musket ball which pierced his forehead. He died lamented by all his associates in arms and at home, and especially by his devoted family. He had lived at Columbia City for a number of years, having married, in July, 1857, Miss Annie Swihart, of that place, by whom he had one child - Mary. He was a noble-hearted man, a Mason, and came of good family, his father having been a prominent Baptist clergyman in the East.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


HENRY SNYDER, like many others, began life a poor boy, dependent entirely upon his own business ability and industry. He inherited much mechanical skill from his father, and at the age of seventeen learned the furniture and cabinet-maker's trade, which in his hands has led on to success. He came to Columbia City in 1853, and from small beginnings his business has attained its present proportions. It is conducted on Van Buren street, in a two-story brick building, owned by himself, 25xl-17 feet. Here he has a large and finely assorted stock of goods, and, in addition, does a general manufacturing business. In his workshops he has an engine, planing mill and all modern machinery. In connection with this is a first-class undertaking establishment; and his annual sales are from $12,000 to $15,000. His son, William D., is associated with him, under the firm name of H. Snyder &, Son. Henry Snyder was born in Cumberland County, Penn., February 23. 1828. His parents were natives of the "Keystone State" and of German descent. Of their family of nine children, eight are yet living. The father's trade was that of a carpenter, but in later years he preferred farming. He moved, with his family, to Richland County, Ohio, about 1834, and to Kosciusko County, Ind., in 1852, where he engaged in farming until his death, which occurred in 1873. Henry Snyder was married in Ohio, January 1, 1850, to Elizabeth R. Stough, and they have a family of two children - Sarah J., now Mrs. Waidlich, and William D. Mr. S. is a Republican, a member of the I. O. O. F. and himself and wife are members of the Lutheran Church.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


A. J. STOUFFS was born, June 10, 1831, in Belgium, Province of Brabant, son of Anthony J. and Josephine (De Corte) Stouffs, natives of Belgium and the parents of seven children, six of whom are yet living. Anthony Stouffs was Treasurer under the Belgium Government, but resigned in 1880, and himself and wife are yet living in their native country. A. J. Stouffs received a good education in Europe, and was engaged in importation of silks from Eastern countries and wholesaling in Belgium and France; was married, December 27, 1852, to Miss Zelia Steyls, and, on December 21, 1859, took passage, with his family, on board the steamer "Kangaroo," bound from London to New York, arriving in this country January 11, 1860, since which time the West has been his home. He came to Illinois, engaged in farming and buying wheat, and was for a time in Chicago, selling goods. In 1864, he came to Hobart, Ind., where he was engaged, in the capacity of freight clerk, by the P., Ft. W. & C. R. R. Co., and in 1865 came to Columbia City in the same capacity, where he has ever since remained. In 1867, he assisted in the establishment of a flax mill, which was burned in 1868. He is now retired from active labor, but assists his son, Arthur, who owns and runs a first-class grocery store near the depot, and "lends a hand" on the home farm of 175 acres. Mr. and Mrs. Stouffs are parents of five children - Anna, Arthur, Mary, George and Blanche. Mr. Stouffs is a Democrat and himself and wife are members of the Roman Catholic Church.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


EPHRAIM STRONG first saw the light in Chenango County, N. Y., May 6, 1816, and is one of a family of seven children, three yet living, born to David and Sarah (Slater) Strong, who were natives respectively of New York and Rhode Island. David Strong was a carpenter by trade, and died in 1826, leaving a widow and six children in limited circumstances. The widow remained in that vicinity until her death, which occurred at the age of sixty-seven years. Ephraim Strong's educational advantages in youth were slight, and he was early thrown on his own resources. He remained in his native State until 1837, when he started West and arrived in Fort Wayne October 7, 1837, where he remained until 1839, working at job work and saw-milling, when he went to Adams County, Ind.; on July 2, 1840, married Miss Angeline Hill, daughter of George Hill, then living in Adams County, Ind. He remained there, engaged in farming, until 1844, when he removed to Whitley County, locating in Thorn Creek Township. In the fall of 1845, he removed to Columbia Township, and purchased the property now comprising the County Poor Farm, at that time entirely devoid of any improvement. Here he built a cabin and began clearing and improving the place for a future home. He sold this property in 1850 and removed to Columbia City, engaging in the meat and grocery business until the death of his wife, which occurred in 1856. He afterward purchased a farm in Thorn Creek Township, to which he removed after his marriage, May 3, 1857, to his present wife, Eleanor Kyler, of Kosciosko County, and the disposal of his town property. He farmed for two years and sold again, only to purchase on a larger scale, and in 1863 added 145 acres more adjoining, to which he had previously added eighty acres. In 1871, he removed to Columbia City, and in 1874 engaged in mercantile business, which he has since followed, and by his own persistent and unaided efforts has acquired a competence. He is the father of ten children, five by each wife, seven yet living. One son (Aaron) served through the war in the Seventeenth Indiana Volunteer Infantry. Mr. and Mrs. Strong are both members of the Universalist Church.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


HON. H. SWIHART has for nearly half a century been identified with the progress and development of Whitley County. He is a native of Montgomery County, Ohio, where he was born in 1807. His parents, Adam and Catherine (Shidler) Swihart, were natives of Pennsylvania, and pioneers of Montgomery County, Ohio, where they settled in 1804; in 1828, they removed to Preble County, Ohio, where the remainder of their days was passed. Our subject is the fourth child of a family of eight, and in his youth and early manhood was familiar with the pioneer life of Ohio. In 1831, he was united in marriage with Dorothy Ulrich, a native of Pennsylvania; this marriage occurred in the same house where our subject was born, being at the time the property of his wife's father. From this period until 1835, Mr. Swihart engaged at farming and conducting a saw-mill. He then emigrated to Indiana, settling, in 1836, upon eighty acres of land which he entered in Cleveland Township in 1835, his family consisting of wife and two children -Catherine and Anna. For five years following, he was employed in clearing up land, etc., to earn a livelihood. In the spring of 1841, he removed to Columbia City and engaged for about four years in erecting saw and grist mills. He then embarked in the mercantile business, at which he continued over ten years, during the latter portion in association with John M. Willett, and again with Daniel Halteman. About this time he was elected a Director of the railroad then in course of construction between Fort Wayne and Chicago, and for about five years engaged at contracting upon its construction. In 1859, he was elected County Recorder, serving four years. He also, in 1859, embarked in the lumber business, which he followed until 1876, when he retired from active labors. From 1845 until 1848, Mr. Swihart was an Associate Judge of the Circuit Court, resigning before the expiration of his term. In 1848, he was elected upon the Republican ticket to represent his district in the State Legislature, the district at this period usually giving about five hundred Democratic majority; he served in this office two terms. Mr. Swihart has served in several minor offices of trust, among which we mention as Justice of the Peace three years, and as the agent for the county and Elihu Chauncey for the sale of lots in Columbia City. He has always advanced, as far as able, measures of enterprise and progress; has aided liberally all good works, and has aided materially in furnishing historical matter for this work. His wife died in 1855; four children are now living Mrs. Catherine Scantling, Anna M. Thiele, Elizabeth Tharp, and Isaac, a farmer of Etna Township; the last was a member of the Fifth Indiana Battery, and served over three years. Two sons died in the service - Adam, a Lieutenant in the One Hundreth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, in service over two years, died at home from effects of service, and Gabriel of the Fifth Indiana Battery. The latter enlisted in the Twelfth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and spent six months in service, and six months in Southern prisons, then joined the Fifth Indiana Battery and was killed in 1864 near New Hope Church, Georgia.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


FRANCIS TULLEY, one of the oldest settlers of Whitley County, Ind., and a present resident of Columbia City, was born April 3, 1810, in Ross County, Ohio, and there grew to manhood. He was of a family of eight children, but two yet living, born to Francis and Elizabeth (Wayland) Tulley, who were natives of Virginia, and were of English and German descent. Francis Tulley's early years were spent on his parents' farm, his educational advantages being necessarily limited. He was married, February 26, 1833, to Miss Mary E. Nickey, who was born in Augusta County, Va., July 12, 1812; and was one of eleven children, five yet living. Her parents were Samuel and Catharine (Bolsley) Nickey, and were of German descent. After the death of the father in Virginia, the mother, with the remainder of the family, removed to Ross County, Ohio, in 1832. Mr. and Mrs. Tulley emigrated to Indiana in 1834, locating in Smith Township, Whitley County, which, at that time was an almost unbroken wilderness. Here they built a log cabin, set up their household gods and began to battle with the rude forces of nature around them, undergoing all the privations and toil incident to pioneer life. Here their children were born, four in number -Rosanna (now Mrs. John Krider), William A., a gunsmith; Cyrus B., an attorney, all residents of Columbia City, and Wesley C., of Smith Township. In June, 1872, the parents left the old home, in which they had encountered life's joys and sorrows and had amassed an ample competence by their labors, and came to Columbia City, where they have since lived quiet, retired lives, loved and esteemed by all. Mr. Tulley is a Democrat, and himself and wife are members of the United Brethren Church.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


WILLIAM A. TULLEY was born on the old Tulley homestead, in Smith Township, November 24, 1836, receiving the advantages of the common schools of that day . He engaged in teaching and working on the home farm until his marriage with Miss Eliza J. Reed, which took place February 12, 1859. Mrs. Tulley died June 10, 1863, leaving one daughter - Elnora E. Previous to the death of his wife, Mr. Tulley began learning ambrotyping and photography, but relinquished that project and returned to the farm, where he remained until his marriage with his present wife, Mrs. Allie (Bodley) Spear, daughter of Capt. J. Bodley and widow of James Spear. This occurred October 18, 1870, and one child was born to this union - William B. In 1873, Mr. Tulley went to Clark County, Wis., where he learned the gunsmith's trade, which he has since followed. In April, 1877, he located in Columbia City, where he does a good business, carrying a fine stock of everything in his line, and making a success of the undertaking. He owns town property in Churubusco, besides eighty acres in Smith Township. Mr. Tulley is a Democrat, and Mrs. Tulley is a member of the Methodist persuasion.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


CYRUS B. TULLEY was born in Smith Township, Whitley County, Ind., August 18, 1839. Spent his youth on the old homestead, availing himself of the best advantages the schools of that day offered. He was married, October 25, 1859, to Fannie W. Krider, and afterward engaged in farming, and teaching until he came to Columbia City in 1865 and began the study of law, and engaged in surveying. In the spring of 1866, he was elected Town Clerk, and the year following was elected one of the Town Trustees. In the fall of 1867, he was elected County Surveyor, in 1871, City Marshal, and, in the fall of 1872, was elected to the State Legislature, serving in the regular and special sessions of 1872-73. In 1875, he was again elected Town Trustee, and in 1878 was re-elected to the Legislature, serving in the regular and special sessions of 1879. Mr. Tul1ey was admitted to the bar of Whitley County in 1869, and has made the practice of law his profession. He is at present acting Justice of the Peace and strictly Democratic in politics, while Mrs. Tulley is a member of the United Brethren Church. Mr. T. owns twenty acres of land in Union Township, besides a large number of town lots in Columbia City, and one-fourth of the Central Building block in which his office is located. Himself and wife are the parents of two daughters - Abie and Rose.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


R. TUTTLE, one of the old settlers of Whitley County, was born in New York in 1816, and was the son of Wolcott and Polly (Sanford) Tuttle, also natives of that State. The mother died in New York, and in 1830 the father came West, locating on a farm in Sandusky County, Ohio. On this farm our subject was reared till 1837, when he came with his brother Horace to La Grange County, this State, and two years later removed to this county and erected a cabin on some wild land in this township, which they cleared up and worked for ten years. They then came to Columbia City and engaged in mercantile business and in running a hotel, which latter they continued till 1860, when they were burned out; and the mercantile firm was continued till 1863, when Horace died. Since then our subject has been engaged in the boot and shoe trade-now in connection with a nephew, C. W. Tuttle. In 1881, our subject bought the Columbia City Flouring Mill, which he operates also in connection with C. W. Tuttle. Mr. R. Tuttle has served as Township Trustee, and also several terms in the City Council; he has done much toward the advancement of the county and town, has always been identified with every movement looking toward public improvement, and is one of Columbia's most respected citizens.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


C. W. TUTTLE is a son of Horace and Letitia (Caldwell) Tuttle, of New York. The father was an early settler in Whitley County, coming here in 1839 with his brother Ranson, and assisting in promoting the farming and mercantile interests of Columbia City and township. He died in 1863, and his wife in November, 1862. They were the parents of six children, five of whom are still living, viz.: Randolph, in the West; our subject; Margaret E. Lavey, of Huntington; Franklin P., in Colorado, and Laura. M. The sixth, William S., died in Texas, aged twenty-seven years. Our subject is a native of Columbia Township, and has been engaged in mercantile pursuits all his life. He is now connected with his uncle, Ranson, in the boot and shoe trade, and in managing the Columbia City Flouring Mills. The mill has a capacity of five run of stone, and is well and favorably known throughout the country. Mr. Tuttle enlisted August, 1862, in Company K, Eighty-eighth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and took part in the battle at Perryville, Ky. He married Miss Allie B. Nesler in December, 1869, and is the father of two children - Ranson E. and Laura B. He is a Royal Arch Mason, and is looked upon as one of the most promising young business men of Whitley County.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


CHRISTIAN D. WAIDLICH was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, December 12, 1824, and is one of twelve children born to John D. and Mary Waidlich, who lived and died in Germany. The father was a very prominent and highly educated man, for many years in the employ of the German government as professor in educational matters, respected and esteemed by all. He died in 1854 or 1855, and his widow died in 1862. Both were devoted members of the Lutheran Church. Christian D. is the third son of his parents; was educated and learned the cabinet-maker's trade in his native country. His eldest brother, a blacksmith, came to America in 1840, and wrote home such glowing descriptions of the country that Christian and his brother were induced to emigrate in the spring of 1842, being thirty-six days on the ocean. They landed in New York, and from there went to Franklin County, Penn., where Christian engaged in carpentering until 1845, when he decided to go West, and located in Columbia City, where he worked at his trade until 1856, when he entered into a partnership in the dry goods and grocery business; he has since his arrival been actively identified with the business interests of the city, and from a penniless boy has raised himself to a position of influence and wealth; at present he is a stock-owner of the Eel River Woolen Mills, of which corporation he is Vice President. Since the war, Mr. Waidlich has been a Republican, and has filled the office of Town Trustee at different times. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., also the O. F. Encampment. He was married in 1847 to Ann Moore. In the summer of 1852, she passed away, leaving two children - William H. (deceased) and Mary E., now Mrs. Harley. Mr. Waidlich was again married, in 1854, to Mrs. Elizabeth (Myers) Bixby, who is yet living. Both Mr. and Mrs. W. are members of the Lutheran Church.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


DR. WILLIAM WEBER, son of Michael and Anna (Falter) Weber, was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, June 16, 1839. Together with his parents, he emigrated to America, in 1840, and, after a voyage of sixty days, arrived in New York, and from there proceeded to Seneca County, Ohio, where Mrs. Weber's relatives lived, removing from there to Huntington County, Ind., where the parents engaged in farming, and where Mr. Weber yet lives. Mrs. Weber died of cholera in 1853. Mr. W. has since married Barbara Smith, a widow lady, who is yet living. Dr. William Weber is one of eleven children, seven of whom are living; was reared on a farm, and received a good common school and seminary education, graduating from Bryant & Stratton's Mercantile College in November, 1865. He engaged in teaching until 1867, when he began the study of medicine under Dr. W. B. Lyons, of Huntington, where he remained three years. He attended a course of medical lectures at the Winona Medical College at Cincinnati in 1867-68. He graduated from the Detroit Medical College in 1869, and from Winona Medical College in 1871. He then located in Columbia City, where he has since been a successful practitioner in his profession. In May, 1875, he was married to Mary E. Myers, who is the mother of four children -Flora E. (deceased), Edward A., Floyd W. and Levi R. The parents are members of the Lutheran faith, and the Doctor is Democratic in politics, and a member of the Town Board of Trustees, and an eminently successful and highly respected citizen.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


J. C. WIGENT was born in Onondaga County, N. Y., March 21, 1840. His father, Urial Wigent, a farmer, married Ruhannah Clark in New York, and moved to De Kalb County, Ind., in 1845, and from there to Union Township, Whitley County, where he was killed by an accident in 1874. His widow is yet a resident of Union Township. They were parents of nine children, five of whom are still living, the subject of our sketch being the third child. He lived on the farm of his parents until twenty-one years of age. In October, 1861, he enlisted in the Fifth Battery, Indiana Volunteers, commanded by Capt. Simonson. He was mustered into service some time after, and soon went to the front, participating in the battles of Champion Hill, Murfreesboro, Stone River, Chickamauga, and in all the engagements and skirmishes of the Atlanta campaign, including Resaca, Peach Tree Creek, Jonesboro, etc. Mr. Wigent was honorably discharged at the close of the war as a non-commissioned officer. He returned to Whitley County after the war, and engaged in farming for more than a year. He then spent a few months in the West; returned to Indiana and engaged in the grocery business at Fort Wayne. In 1873, he moved to Coesse and, while there, was elected County Recorder of Whitley County, on the "People's Ticket," serving until 1878; then engaged in the abstract business. Mr. Wigent possesses the only set of abstract books in the county, and, besides looking up titles to property, practices law when it connects with his business. He is a Republican, and a member of the A. F. & A. M. He was married, October 22, 1868, to Miss Ida M. Spore, at Norwalk, Ohio. Of four children born to them, there are now living Roy W., Warren R. and Claud U.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


J. G. WILLIAMS, banker, is a native of Delaware County, Ohio, his birth occurring May 17, 1832. He is one of four children born to Elijah and Margery (Place) Williams, who were natives, respectively, of Virginia and New York, and of Irish and Welsh descent. Elijah Williams was a tanner by trade, but in connection with that followed farming. He died in 1857, preceded by his wife in 1852. Both were honored and esteemed members of the Baptist Church. J. G. Williams was raised and educated in his native county, and for two years preceding his removal to Indiana was engaged in clerking for Adam Wolfe. In December, 1854, he came to Columbia City and entered the employ of Wolfe & Foust, both of whom are his present partners. The greater part of the following fifteen years he was in the employ of Mr. Wolfe, in different parts of Ohio and Indiana, engaged in banking and merchandising. A part of this time, he, on his own responsibility, was a member of a banking firm in Muncie, Ind., and for six years was engaged in the produce trade at Bluffton, Wells Co. The fall of 1875, he removed to Columbia City, and became a partner in the Columbia City Bank, under the firm name of F. H. Foust & Co., and he has remained here engaged in banking ever since. While a partner in the bank of Muncie in 1867, Mr. Williams was called to Columbia City in the interests of his old employers, and during his absence, his partner, like many others before and since engaged in grain speculation to such an extent as to compromise the honor of the bank and cause its failure. Mr. Williams could, in all honor to himself, have taken advantage of the bankrupt law then in force, and thus have saved a great many hundred dollars. Instead, however, he assumed his share of the debts, besides losing his capital, and, with honor to himself and fidelity to his creditors, has since been gradually paying off the obligations. By shrewd business management and hard labor, he has done this, besides securing a solid financial position in the bank of which he is now a member. Mr. Williams was married in December, 1854, in Eaton, Preble Co., Ohio, to Miss Josephine Bruce. He is a Republican in political principle, and a member of the I. O. O. F., also the O. F. Encampment.

"Counties of Whitley and Noble, Indiana. Historical and Biographical" by Weston A. Goodspeed and Charles Blanchard
Published by F.A. Battey & Co. in 1882
Columbia City


Deb Murray