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

THOMAS KELLER was born in Ohio County (now West) Virginia, August 20, 1810, the son of Martin and Margaret (McCreary) Keller, who moved to Licking County, Ohio, in 1817, and there ended their days, leaving a family of five children, two of whom are now dead. Our subject was brought up on his father's farm, receiving but a limited education. In 1837, he: married Miss Matilda Judge, who was born in Ohio, May 10, 1816, and who died in Licking County, Ohio, May 18, 1843. July 26, 1848, our subject married Eliza A. Smith, who was born in Stark County, Ohio, January 8, 1826. By his first marriage, there were born to our subject two children - Lewis H. and Margaret E.; by his second marriage, five children - Harriet M., Cornelius, Martin S., Jasper L. and Hiram N. Our subject for a number of years after marriage had charge of his father's farm; he purchased a small one adjoining, and worked them both together till 1854, when he came to this township, locating on the Goshen road, where he lived till he purchased his present farm, in 1864. This now comprises 160 acres, and is nicely improved, all gained by his industry as a farmer, and skill as a stock-raiser. He is a Democrat in politics, and is an intelligent and useful 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
Cleveland Township

JONAS KINSEY was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, June 7, 1817, and was the son of John and Elizabeth (Mullendore) Kinsey, who were natives of Virginia, there married, and came to this State, previous to the war of 1812, and engaged in farming, the father dying when Jonas was but three years old. Our subject remained at home till twenty-one, assisting on the farm and attending the rude schools of that early day. In 1842, he married Miss Isabel McQuisten, of Westmoreland County, Penn., and the following year moved to this township, purchasing the 240 acres of unimproved land where he still resides. His family consists of seven children, as follows: Susanna, Jane, David W., Jacob H., Sidney A., Francelia A. and Emro J. Mr. Kinsey has always followed farming and stock-raising, and his farm now comprises 265 acres well-improved land, which he and wife have secured by hard work and good management. He is a Republican in politics and a useful 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
Cleveland Township

THOMAS J. LA FOLLETTE, M. D., was born in Warren County, Ohio, January 13, 1836, and is the son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Patterson) La Follette, both natives of Rockingham County, Va., where they were reared and married. They moved from there to Kentucky, then to Ohio, and in 1840 to Jay County, Ind. The father held a Colonel's commission in the Ohio militia. He was a farmer by occupation, and was the father of fifteen children, eleven of whom are now living. He accumulated much property and died in 1860, his wife following eight years later. Our subject was reared on a farm, received an academic education, and when quite young began teaching school, which he followed for three years, then took up the study of medicine, and went through a course of lectures at the "Miami Medical College" of Cincinnati A short time after, he started the Democratic Review, a weekly newspaper at Portland, Ind., which he ran three years. In 1873, he graduated at his medical college, and engaged in practice in Wells County, Ind., and in Huntington County. In 1876, he located at South Whitley. He was married to Miss Margaret J. Peterson, June 16, 1861. She was born in Jay County, Ind., January 19, 1841, and died August 4, 1878, and was the mother of three children, one of whom is yet living - Olive R. August 14, 1880, the Doctor married Miss Martha Orr, who was born in Washington County, Ohio, February, 17, 1844. The Doctor is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, is a Democrat, and has built up a good practice.

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

DR. ELIJAH MERRIMAN, whose portrait appears in this work, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, April 5, 1827. He is the son of Elijah and Mary (McCoy) Merriman, both of whom were natives of Fayette County, Penn., where they were reared and married. In 1817, they moved to Ohio and settled in Wayne County, where the father died in 1834. In the family were nine children, all of whom are yet living, our subject being the youngest. After the father's death the family kept together, and by the skill and good judgment of the mother, were reared and educated in a very creditable manner, and to her help and good advice our subject owes much of his success in life. Our subject lived at home and assisted on the farm till fifteen years of age; then served an apprenticeship of two years at the carpenter's trade. In 1843, he came to Whitley County, and took a job of clearing land in Washington Township. After about a year he returned to Wayne County, Ohio, and soon began teaching and attending school. He attended the Edinburg Academy in his native county, and then the Muskingum College near Zanesville, Ohio. He was a close and diligent student, and became quite proficient. In the fall of 1850, he began the study of medicine with Dr. Alexander Adams, of Apple Creek, Wayne Co., Ohio. Then attended the Medical College of Ann Arbor, Mich., and on September 29, 1853, he came to South Whitley and began the practice of his profession. Here he has since resided. He was united in marriage with Miss Rebecca Parrett, March 20, 1856. This lady was born in Fayette County, Ohio, February 7, 1836. She is the daughter of John D. and Nancy (Kern) Parrett, both natives of Fayette County, her father having been born March 9, 1806, and his wife January 20, 1814. They were married December 31, 1829 and to them were born the following family of children - Mary, Catharine, Rebecca, Benjamin, Phillip, Cynthia A., Joshua, and thee that died in infancy. In the fall of 1836, John D. Parrett and his family, his father Joseph Parrett, Jr., and family, came to Cleveland Township and purchased the land on which South Whitley is now located. They got land of three brothers named Goben, about the 1st of May, 1837. Joseph Parrett, Jr., laid out the town of South Whitley. His son, John D., built the first house in the place, and the survey of the town was made by William Delvin. John D. Parrett died March 20, 1855. His wife survives him and resides with her daughter, Mrs. Dr. Merriman. Few of the Parret family are now residing in Whitley County. From Dr. Merriman's marriage with Miss Parrett there are five children, viz.: Willamette; John E., Mary, Nelly and Lowell M. In his profession, Dr. Merriman has been eminently successful. Always a close and careful student of pathology, as he found it in his practice, he became a leader in the use of new and rational remedies. His watchfulness over the interests and welfare of his patients, his devotion to his profession, his sound sense and good judgment combined to complete his fitness for his calling. His adaptability for the position of family physician is excelled by none and equaled by few. He has held numerous positions of honor and trust, among which are those of Justice of the Peace and Township Trustee. He was elected to the latter office twice, when the township was heavily in debt, but, through his careful management, it was all paid off, and the financial condition of Cleveland Township today, through his exertions. stands at the head of any township in the county. He has done much to build up the schools and elevate the standard of teachers, among whom he is very popular. In politics Dr. Merriman is a decided Republican, is active in his party, and always acts from principle and not from aspiration for office. He is a kind-hearted Christian man, and one of the county's best and most worthy citizens. He liberally contributes to all laudable enterprises, owns a good home in South Whitley, and one-half interest in the brick business building and drug store of Merriman & Robbins, and also 160 acres of land in Cleveland Township.

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

FREDERICK MORELL was born near the eastern borders of France, November 8. 1822, and was the son of Peter and Susan (Hermelet) Morell, parents of thirteen children, seven of whom reached maturity. In 1833, the parents came to the United States and engaged in farming in Wayne County, Ohio. Our subject, in addition to his early tuition in his mother country, acquired a very fair English education, and from the age of sixteen to twenty-seven operated the home farm. When about nineteen, he came to Whitley County and entered 160 acres of land in Washington Township, with money furnished by his father, and came from time to time, in winter, to clear up his farm, returning in the spring to manage the home place. In 1849, he came to live on his land in Washington Township, and in the same year married Miss Catharine Druhot, a native of France, born in 1827. This lady died in 1874, and in 1882 our subject married Mrs. Margaret Ashcraft. Although the father of no children, Mr. Morell has reared three of his brother's, to whom he has given liberally on their marrying or becoming of age. He farmed in Washington Township until 1871, when he came to Cleveland, where he owns 240 acres, together with 280 in Washington. He has one of the finest residences in the county, and has gained all his wealth by thrift and good management. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in politics was a Democrat till the breaking-out of the recent war, since when he has voted with the Republicans.

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

CHRISTIAN MYERS was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, January 24, 1819. He is grandson of Christian Myers, who moved from Virginia to Montgomery County, Ohio, during the first settlement of that county. His son Henry, father of our subject, came with his parents to Ohio, and there married Mary Wirick, whose people moved from North Carolina to Preble County at a very early day. Henry Myers was teamster in the war of 1812, and also in the Indiana campaign against the Indians. In 1838, he brought his family to this township, bought ninety acres of land from James Chaplin and 120 acres from William Parrett, near where the village of Collamer now stands, and also entered lands in Cass and Kosciusko Counties. He brought with him a four-horse wagon, a two-horse wagon, some cows and sheep, household furniture and considerable cash, but for all that he and family underwent many of the hardships of pioneer life. Of his nine children seven were living when he came to Indiana; there are now alive only two sons and one daughter. The parents were very intelligent people, and were most favorably known among the earlier settlers. In 1849, the father took his farewell of earth, his widow surviving till November 23, 1873. Our subject was reared to hard work and became a thorough farmer. January 1, 1843, he married Miss Catharine Abbott, who was born in Preble County, Ohio, February 11, 1824. Her father, James Abbott, came to Kosciusko County in 1834, and located one mile west of where Mrs. Myers now lives. Two days after marriage, our subject and wife moved into a log cabin within a few feet of their present residence, and since then have never been absent from the farm for a longer period than ten days. They now own 250 acres of land, and have, besides, given to each of their married children a good farm. Their children number five, viz.: Nathan, Emeline J., William F., Nora A. and Annie M. Nathan enlisted in Company E, Forty-fourth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, in the spring of 1862, and died while in the army of typhoid fever. Our subject and wife are members of the Christian Church, and in politics he is a Republican, and is looked upon as one of the county's best 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
Cleveland Township

JOSEPH MYERS was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, May 10, 1829, the son of Henry and Mary (Wirick) Myers, of whom full mention is made in the sketch of Christian Myers. Our subject was reared on his father's farm, receiving a common-school education, and still resides on the homestead, which, at his father's death in 1849, consisted of 147 acres, but which now comprises 227, having been thus increased by our subject, who has also highly improved the place, as well as caring for his mother, who made her home with him till her death. November 27, 1851, he married Malinda Banta, who was born in Cass County, Ind., January 7, 1831, and to their union have been born seven children, viz.: Frances E., Winifred S., Mary I., Eldora, Emma, Warren H. and Jennie. Our subject is a thoroughly practical farmer and a successful stock-raiser and business man; he is a Republican in politics, a member of the Christian Church, and a liberal giver to all church, school and other laudable enterprises, and is one of the county's best 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
Cleveland Township

JOSEPH and RILEY OBENCHAIN are two of a family of six children born to Samuel and Catharine (Flora) Obenchain, both of whom were born and reared in Virginia. They were married in their native State, and removed to Ohio in 1835, and in the fall of 1836, came with their family to Cleveland Township, this county, and entered 160 acres of land on Section 11. Their nearest neighbor was James Abbott, who lived five miles west, in what is now Kosciusko County. They brought no stock except the horses that drew the wagon, and they got a start by going to Elkhart County. They also had to go to that county to mill, the tri p sometimes occupying ten days. They are said to be the first actual and permanent settlers of Cleveland Township, and, as they were in straitened circumstances, they went through many hardships and privations in making for themselves and family a comfortable home. They were intelligent and among the most respected and highly spoken of the old settlers. Joseph Obenchain was born in Botetourt County, Va., October 8, 1828, reared upon his father's farm and to hard work, receiving but a limited education. He was united in marriage with Miss Catharine Long in 1849. She was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, near Dayton, in 1830. From this union ten children were born, viz.: Albert, Sarah E., William, Rueben I., Mary J., Samuel E., Ida A., Harley, Charles and Meda. Joseph has always resided upon the old homestead. He had but a small tract of unimproved land at the time of his marriage, but has always worked hard and carefully saved his earnings. He now owns 540 acres. He is a Democrat, a member of the Dunkard Church, and an enterprising and useful citizen. He is the present Township Trustee of Cleveland Township. Riley Obenchain was born in Botetourt County, Va., October 4, 1830. His youth and early manhood were spent at hard work upon his father's farm. He received such education as the schools of that early day afforded. Was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Brenneman June 9, 1853. She was born in Lancaster County, Penn., August 24, 1833. From this union there were eight children, viz.: Franklin 1., John W., Frances A., Barbara A., Abraham L., Idelia, Mary C. and Leonard R. Mrs. Obenchain departed this life May 19, 1881. She was a true wife, a faithful companion, and affectionate and loving mother, and an intelligent Christian lady. Riley Obenchain began life as a poor man, and for the most part has made what he now possesses. He owns 155 acres of land and a nice comfortable home in South Whitley, where he resides. He was reared a Democrat, but on the breaking-out of the war he left that party's ranks and has since been a stanch and zealous Republican. He was an uncompromising union man during the late strife, and did much to help at home and encourage the boys in the field. The county would be much better off had it more such men as Riley Obenchain. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and liberally contributes toward its support, and that of schools and all laudable enterprises.

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

MARTIN, FREDERICK and HAMILTON PENCE are the children of John and Mary F. (Hoffman) Pence, natives of the "Old Dominion," where they were reared and married. They moved from Virginia to Champaign County, Ohio, in 1822. There were five children born to them, and some years after their removal to the Buckeye State the mother died. The father married for his second wife, Barbara Loudenback, and by this marriage there were nine children. The father had been a soldier of the war of 1812, and always followed farming and was a hard-working, industrious man, and respected and useful citizen. Martin Pence, son by the first wife, was born in Page County, Va., July 9, 1818. Frederick, his brother, in the same county and State, April 4, 1820; and Hamilton, in Champaign County, Ohio, January 26, 1822. These sons received but little or no education, and after the death of their mother fared very poorly at the hands of the step-mother. Long before they were able, they were compelled to perform the same and as much work as that of full-grown men. Martin left home when about seventeen, and for some years worked by the day or month, and at anything he could turn an honest penny at. His wages were small, and it was only by the hardest work and strictest economy that he succeeded in saving a little money. He was married to Miss Barbara Loudenback August 6, 1843. She was born in Champaign County, Ohio, May 8, 1820. From this union were born six children, viz., Noah, John, David, Susanah, Me1issa and Josephine. Noah served his country in the late war, in the Eighty-eighth Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He died at Nashvil1e, Tenn., while in his country's service. Martin lived in Champaign County, Ohio, following farming till 1850, when he came to this county and located on the farm he now owns. The place was al1 woods and had no improvements. He now owns 160 acres. He is a Democrat and a member of the Baptist Church. Frederick Pence also went through many hardships and privations in youth and for years after he came to this county, which was in 1850. He was fifteen when he left his parental roof and began the battle of life. Having no education, there was no opening but hard, physical labor. He went to work with a will and labored at whatever he could find to do. He married Miss Susan Jenkins April 26, 1840. She was born in Champaign County, Ohio, September 12, 1819. From this union ten children were born, viz., Philander R., Rose A., Mary F., Nancy J., Amanda, John W., Bell, Sabra, Tamson and Martha. Five of these children are deceased. In 1847, Frederick and his brother Hamilton came to this county and purchased some land, paying $3.50 per acre for it. They then went back to Ohio, and in 1850 both came to this county and located on their land. At the time of marriage, Frederick had no property. He has always worked hard and has accumulated considerable wealth. He now owns 120 acres of land and a nice and comfortable home in South Whitley. He has given liberally to his children. He is a Republican in politics, and a member of the U. B. Church. Hamilton Pence left home when thirteen years of age, and up to the time of marriage had little or no means ahead. He worked by day, month and job. He and brother Frederick would chop cord wood at 25 cents per cord and make rails at 25 cents per hundred, taking in pay wheat, corn whisky or anything they could convert into money. In 1850, Hamilton came to this county and located on what is now the Goble farm, in Cleveland Township. He was married in Champaign County, Ohio, July 24, 1844, to Miss Sarah Harbour. She was born in Champaign County, Ohio, August 8, 1819. From this union there were six children, two of whom are now living, viz., Allen and Joseph. Those deceased were, Lovina, Tamson, Richard and Jason. Allen served his country in the One Hundred and Twenty-ninth Indiana Volunteer Infantry during the late war. Hamilton Pence, after his marriage, lived with his father-in-law some time, then moved on a small place belonging to him, where he remained until 1845, when he moved to Jefferson County, Iowa, but after living there about a year, and in Illinois, near Springfield, some months, returned to Ohio, where he remained till he came to this county in 1850. After living some years in Cleveland Township and clearing ninety acres of land, he sold it and went to Champaign County, Ohio, and purchased his father-in-law's farm, but after a year sold that, and again came to this county, where he has since resided. He owned 320 acres of land, but has given 160 of it to his sons. He is a Republican, and a member of the U. B. Church. In taking a retrospective view of the life, success and acquirements of the Pence brothers, it can be truly said of them that they were self-made men. They began life as very poor boys, but by hard work and economy, coupled with strict honesty and straight dealings, have made for themselves and families comfortable homes and secured an enviable reputation among the people with whom they have lived, and in the county which they have helped to improve. They were stanch Union men during the late war, contributing over $1,500 for sanitary and other purposes. They are ever ready to help the weak and oppressed, and have liberally contributed to all religious, educational and other worthy enterprises.

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

SAMUEL PRITCHARD was born in Stark County, Ohio, June 12, 1840, one of a family of seven sons and six daughters born to Noah and Margaret (Rhinehart) Pritchard, natives respectively of Virginia and Maryland. They were married in Stark County, and moved from there to this township in 1848. The father died January 7, 1881, and the mother now resides in Richland Township. Of the seven sons, three served in the Union army during the late war. When about twenty years old, our subject entered a grist-mill at Collamer, and two years later engaged in Arnold Bros.' mill, at South Whitley. In 1863, he enlisted in Company E, Forty-fourth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served through the war. For two years after his return, he worked in a mill, and then went to Arnold Bros.' again, and remained with them about ten years. Then he started in the grocery trade at South Whitley, and in 1880 he and John Glassley built a two-story brick store, one-half of which he now occupies, and also owns a comfortable home in the village. December 29, 1869, he married Miss Mary Ramsey, born in Bluffton, Ind., September 18, 1848, and to them have been born three children, viz.: Orphia L., Myrtle B. and Lodie M. Mr. Pritchard is a member of the M. E. Church; is a useful and enterprising citizen, and is a Republican.

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

FRANCIS S. REMINGTON was born in Hartford County, Conn., August 31, 1836, the son of Jonathan and Elethia (Sikes) Remington, natives of said State, who moved to Ohio in 1842, and settled in Akron, Summit County, where they have ever since resided. The father was a farmer as well as wagon and carriage maker, and was the parent of eight children, three of whom are yet living. Our subject was reared in the city of Akron, where he received a good common-school education, and learned to be a printer in the Beacon office, beginning when about fifteen years old, and following the business until 1868. He came to Wayne County, Ind., in 1861, and for some time conducted a newspaper there, but has not done much in the newspaper line since 1865, competent and practical though he was. He was engaged in the insurance business for some time, and in the fall of 1871 came to South Whitley and entered into the hardware trade, which he still continues. In November, 1864, he married Miss Clara A. Snow, who was born in Franklin County, Ind., in 1845. and to their union have been born five children - Ella, Mary D., Cora S., Nora S. and James E. Mr. Remington is a member of the M. E. Church, is an Odd Fellow, and in politics a Republican. He is a good scholar and an enterprising business man, and is liberal in his contributions in aid of schools, churches and other laudable undertakings.

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

RICHARD RITTER was born in Champaign County, Ohio, February 2, 1819, the son of Henry and Elizabeth (Harbour) Ritter. The father was born in Kentucky, but moved, when a boy, with his parents to Ross County, Ohio, and was here reared; but, while still a young man, went to Champaign County, and there enlisted and served in the war of 1812. He married in Champaign County, held there numerous official positions, was Captain in the State Militia and a leading and influential citizen, and father of nine children. At an early day, he came to Whitley County and entered 320 acres of land in this township and 160 in Washington Township. In 1840, he gave 160 acres of the Cleveland Township land to our subject, who that year came out to see the property and get the deed recorded, and make some improvements. Our subject then returned to Ohio, and, until 1844, alternated between the two States till he was fully prepared to move here permanently. September 15, 1842, he married Sarah Kiser, who was born in Clark County, Ohio, in 1821. In 1844, he came to live on the land alluded to above, which he has since made his home, and has well improved. In 1862, Mrs. Ritter died, the mother of nine children, four of whom are yet living - James, Elijah, Catherine and Emeline; those deceased were Perry, Jane, Landora, Eldora and John. Of the sons, James served during the late war in the Eighty-eighth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and Elijah in the One Hundred and Twenty-ninth, and were both good soldiers. Mr. Ritter has always followed farming and stock-raising; is a Democrat; has held several township offices, and is a good and useful 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
Cleveland Township

SAMUEL ROBBINS was born in St. Joseph County, Ind., April 30, 1841, the son of John and Precious (Jenkins) Robbins, natives of Miami County, where they were married, and whence they moved in an early day to St. Joseph County, where the father entered a tract of land, on which he still resides. He was twice married, his second wife being Rachel Jackson, and there were born to him twelve children, six by each wife. He is a man of more than ordinary intelligence, and has held several positions of honor and trust. Our subject was reared a farmer and received an academic education. In the spring of 1861, he went to Kankakee County, Ill., and in the following August enlisted in Company D, Forty-second Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and was almost immediately sent to the front. He was at Farmington and Stone River. At the latter fight he was captured, and was held prisoner twenty-eight days, fifteen of these being spent in Libby Prison; he was then paroled, subsequently exchanged, and then he returned to his regiment, at that time at Murfreesboro. He took part in the battles of Chickamauga, in and around Atlanta, and at Mission Ridge, at the last receiving a wound from a minie ball, which struck him just above the heart, shattering several ribs and the left shoulder joint. This disqualified him for further service, and, after thirteen months' treatment in the hospital, he returned to his father's in St. Joseph County, where he remained a year; then served as clerk in a drug store in South Bend a year, then came to South Whitley for awhile, thence he went to Elwood, Will County, Ill., where he remained for two years in the drug trade, and then returned to South Whitley; acted as station agent for the Eel River Railroad County two years, and then entered the drug business again. In 1879, he erected a two-story brick business building in South Whitley, and a year later sold one-half interest to Dr. E. Merriman, and together they now conduct a drug trade. In 1872, Mr. Robbins was appointed Postmaster at South Whitley, and he still fills the position. April 16, 1874, he married Miss Ellen M. Hower, born in this county August 8, 1855, and to their union have been born two children - Maud E. and Charles W. Mr. Robbins is a reading man, a Republican, and one of the county's useful 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
Cleveland Township

JAMES M. RUNKLE was born in Mad River Township, Champaign County, Ohio, January 22, 1837, the son of David and Margaret (Frisinger) Runkle, natives respectively of Virginia and Kentucky, and married in Champaign County, Ohio, of which portion of the State Peter Runkle, our subject's grandfather, was one of the earliest settlers. David Runkle, our subject's father, was born in 1800; died January 22, 1878, having served as a Baptist minister over fifty-six years. His mother, Margaret Runkle, was born in 1810, and is still living in Ohio. They were the parents of five children, of whom our subject is the youngest. Reared a farmer, our subject while yet a young man took charge of his father's farm, which he operated till 1861, when he came to this township and purchased the farm he now occupies. January 12, 1860, he married Miss Mahala Pence, who was born in Champaign County, Ohio, September 1, 1842, and to their union have been born six children - Laura C., Charles F., Wiley A., Viletia M., Avilla B. and one that died in infancy. About five years after coming to this county, Mr. Runkle engaged in the saw-mill and lumber business, which he successfully carried on, and has been more or less engaged in ever since; he has also handled real estate and live stock, and has been fortunate in all his transactions, although, being a man of generous impulses, he has lost heavily by going security for others, but still owns a nicely improved farm and other property. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity; is a Democrat, and has held a number of township offices, and is altogether a valuable 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
Cleveland Township

ANDREW SHORB was born in York County, Penn., September 20, 1809, the son of Adam and Mary (Miller) Shorb, both born, reared and married in the county named, and the parents of twelve children, ten of whom lived to reach their majority. Our subject lived on his father's farm till twenty-two years old, and August 7, 1831, married Miss Mary Phillips, who was also born in York County February 11, 1813. In 1832, they moved to Stark County, Ohio, and engaged in farming some ten years. In 1842, they came to this county; spent the winter with Henry Myers in this township, and then settled in the southeastern part of Richland. On coming to this county, they brought with them a two-horse team, some household goods, and 150 head of sheep. The last Mr. Shorb disposed of, and two years later (1844), he went to Wayne County, Ind., and purchased 300 head, which he also disposed of in this county. These were probably the first large flocks of sheep brought to the county. In 1869, being tired of farming, Mr. Shorb moved to Larwill, where he lived in quiet about six years; he then moved to his present home near Collamer. Beginning life with nothing, he has, by untiring industry and sagacious management, secured a competency. He has given his children over five hundred acres of land, and still owns 215 acres, and has, in addition, had his children well educated. He and wife are members of the Lutheran Church, and are among the most respected citizens of the community. Their children are named as follows: Lavinia, Henry .I., Nathaniel G., Matilda, Justus A., Melinda, Andrew J., Jeremiah, Thomas J., Eliza A., Miranda M., Sarah J. and Mary E.

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

CHARLES SHUH was born in Clark County, Ohio, March 11, 1841. His father, John Shuh, was born in Bavaria, came to this country in 1838, was married in Ohio to Miss Margaret Shaffner, also a native of Germany, and came to this county in 1856, settling in Troy (now a part of Richland) Township. Our subject was reared on a farm, and soon after reaching his majority visited Illinois, where he was at the breaking-out of the late war. He enlisted in Company C, Seventy-fifth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and with his regiment was in the battles at Perryville, Chickamauga, Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge, Atlanta, Franklin, Nashville, and in all the battles in which the Seventy-fifth, of which he was color-bearer, was engaged, except Stone River. After the war, he came to this county and for some time operated a saw-mill for his father, and subsequently bought it, ran it in Richland Township till 1871, moved it to South Whitley and added planing-mill, and now deals in all kinds of hard and soft lumber. January 1, 1867, he married Miss Martha Huston, who was born in this county, January 30, 1841, and to their union have been born four children, viz.: Charles L., Margaret F., Albert R. and Wallace M. Unti11872, Mr. Shuh was Democratic in his political faith, but since that year has voted with the Republicans. He is a member of the Baptist Church and a good 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
Cleveland Township

ANDREW W. SICKAFOOSE was born in Stark County, Ohio, February 13, 1821, the son of George and Margaret (Wagner) Sickafoose, natives of Pennsylvania, and married in that State, whence they emigrated to Stark County in about 1817, and settled in Pike Township. The father, who had served in the war of 1812, died July 7, 1840, and his wife followed in 1850. Our subject was reared on the farm, but on reaching his majority learned the blacksmith's trade, and assisted in caring for the family after his mother's death. January 24, 1847, in Stark County, he married Miss Mary McDonald, born in Canton, Ohio, August 13, 1825, and to their union were born four children, viz.: Marion, Ellie, Laura and Electa. In 1851, he brought his family to this county, and a year later began working at his trade in South Whitley, where he has since remained, and now owns a pretty home in the village and 160 acres of good land in the township. In politics, he formerly affiliated with the Whig party, but joined the standard of the Republicans at an early day. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal 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
Cleveland Township

SAMUEL H. SICKAFOOSE was born in Stark County, Ohio, April l9, 1836, one of twelve children born to John and Margaret (Swartwood) Sickafoose, natives respectively of Pennsylvania and New England, and married in Pennsylvania, whence they removed to Stark County in 1817, and in 1838 to this township, where the father entered 320 acres of land on Section 35, coming in a three-horse wagon and bringing his wife and ten children, of whom our subject was the youngest. They were among the first to settle in that part of the county, and were compelled to endure all the privations and hardships of pioneer life. The father had been Justice of the Peace in Ohio, and also filled the same office in this township a number of years. He and wife were industrious people and members of the church, and reared to sobriety and virtue their large family, many of whom still reside in this county and are recognized as among its best citizens. The father died in 1875, and was followed by the mother two years later. Our subject, who was reared on the farm, married Miss Catharine A. Holm, November 12, 1858. She was born in Stark County, Ohio, June 30, 1837. To this union have been born four children, viz.: Mary M., David H., Harriet H. and an infant son. Subject followed carpentering for ten years, lumbering and saw-milling six years, manufactured wagons and carriages at South Whitley for some time, and has also been engaged in mercantile business and hotel keeping in South Whitley, where he now owns a good business house and a nice home, and other valuable property. He served in Company I, One Hundred and Fifty-third Indiana Volunteer Infantry, from the spring of 1865 till the close of the late war; he is a stanch Republican, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal 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
Cleveland Township

LEWIS M. STEWARD was born in Hamilton County, Ohio, September 20, 1816, the son of Zadok and Mary (Miller) Steward, natives respectively of Wales and Germany. They were married in Virginia, and moved to Cincinnati in early times, and there the father conducted a mill and distillery. He was a soldier of the war of 1812, and served under Harrison at Tippecanoe and in other fights, and died at his home about 1824, when our subject was eight years old. The orphaned boy, by working at odd jobs, saving his money, attending school at times and studying hard, acquired a good education, and began teaching school while still young. In 1848, he came to this county, bought eighty acres of land, where he now lives, and moved upon it in 1849. In 1838, he married Miss Hannah Harbour, born in Virginia in 1820, and they became the parents of seven children, viz., Robert J., Theodore, Catharine, Joseph, Oliver P. and two that died in infancy. Mrs. Steward died in 1854, and in 1856 our subject married Mrs. Hannah Parrett, who was born in Licking County, Ohio, in 1822, the daughter of Abraham Grable, one of the pioneers of Whitley County, and its first Treasurer. To this marriage were born six children, viz., Roseltha M., Franklin D., Ettie, Clara, Claud Maud and Jennie B. During the late war, Robert J. and Theodore were both in the Union army. Our subject now owns over two hundred acres of well-improved land adjoining South Whitley, and has held the office of Justice of the Peace for sixteen years. He is a Democrat, and a member of the M. E. 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
Cleveland Township

OLIVER P. STEWART was born in Champaign County, Ohio, October 13, 1848, the son of Lewis M. and Hannah (Harbour) Stewart, natives of Ohio. They came to this county in 1849, and settled on their present farm adjoining the village of South Whitley. Our subject, Oliver P., was reared on a farm, but at the age of seventeen began teaching school. In 1871, he entered the "Ohio Wesleyan University of Delaware," Ohio, was sufficiently advanced to enter the Sophomore class, and graduated in 1874. Soon after, he took up the study of law, and in a few years was admitted to the bar, since when he has practiced in all the courts of the county; is well posted in his profession, and is located at South Whitley. September 29, 1881, he married Miss Bell Bechtol, who was born in this county May 7, 1856. He is a Democrat, and, in the spring of 1882, was nominated for the office of County Treasurer. He is a Notary Public, and is regarded as a young man of ability and progressive ideas.

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

JEREMIAH STIVER was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, August 8, 1832, the son of William and Harriet (Sterling) Stiver, who were born, reared and married near Harrisburg, Penn., and who, in 1830, moved to Montgomery County, Ohio, and thence, in 1848, to this township, where they located on the farm now owned by Stephen Gleason, and where they ended their days, the parents of five sons and three daughters. The father was a carpenter, which trade he followed the greater part of his time, although he owned a farm. He built many of the dwellings and barns in this and adjoining townships, which stand today monuments of his skill and industry. In 1860, he died, his wife having preceded him ten years. Our subject was reared on his father's farm, receiving his education in the log schoolhouses of that day, and he and his brothers cultivating the land while the father was away working at his trade. March 18, 1856, he married Miss Catharine Obenchain, who was born in this township March 31, 1836, and by this union became the father of seven children - George W., Samantha J., Charles S., Mary, Flora C., Emro J. C. and Joseph R. Mrs. Stiver died January 24, 1869, and Mr. Stiver, July 4, 1809, married Miss Sarah E. Young, who was born in Summit County, Ohio, October 6, 1846. To this union were born nine children - Minerva, Dora E., William H., Chloe M., Jessie B., Sarah A., Franklin I. and Harry I. (twin brothers) and a daughter that died in infancy. Mr. Stiver has always followed farming, and owns 105 acres of well-improved land. He is a member of the Masonic order, and of the A. O. U. W., and, in politics, is a Democrat.

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

JOHN N. STULTS was born in Stark County, Ohio, November 7, 1838, and is one of five children born to Samuel and Margaret (Failor) Stults, natives of Pennsylvania. They were married in Stark County, where the father followed farming till his death in 1849, and where the mother still resides a widow. Our subject helped care for the family till of age, in the meantime attending school at Canton, Ohio, and also Mount Union College. In 1862, he enlisted in Company D, One Hundred and Seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served two years in the late war, being present at Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Fort Wagner and several lesser engagements, and the last year serving as Regimental Quartermaster. In 1865, he came to this township and engaged in lumbering and milling. In 1879, he engaged in mercantile business in South Whitley, and now carries $10,000 worth of general store goods. He has a large two-story brick business house, and other valuable property. August 24, 1866, he married Miss Nancy J. Pence, who was born in Champaign County, Ohio, February 3, 1849, and to their union have been born four children – Stella, Minnie M., Winifred and Nellie. Mr. Stults is a Republican and a Mason, and is, in the usual sense of the word, a self-made man, an enterprising and public-spirited citizen, and has built up his still increasing trade by fair dealing and strict attention to business.

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

BENJAMIN W. TODD was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, the son of Samuel and Sarah Todd. His father came from Maryland and his mother from Germany, and they were married in the county of our subject's birth, and died in Van Wert, leaving twelve children. Benjamin W. worked on his father's farm till his majority was reached, and then began life on his own account. In 1843, he married Miss Rachel Goodin, a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1817, and to their union were born nine children - Samuel G., Sarah, Josiah B., Orpedill, Matilda A., Truman B., Stilman C., Mary A. and Frances. He farmed in Ohio till 1845, when he came to this township with his family and located on the farm he now owns, and experienced all the cares, toil and sufferings of pioneer life, he and wife at one time being ill two days and nights and receiving only the attention their little ones could give. Fortunately they were discovered by a hunter, who procured a doctor and other assistance. His farm now comprises 120 acres good land, well improved. Mrs. Todd died May 29, 1874, regretted by all who knew her. Our subject is a Democrat, is a member of the M. E. Church, and is one of the county's oldest and 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
Cleveland Township

PETER TRESSLER was born in Bavaria, Germany, February 25, 1824, the son of Michael and Louisa (Foreman) Tressler, who came to the United States in 1827 and located in Sandy Township, Stark County, Ohio, where the father died a year later, leaving his wife and ten children in somewhat destitute circumstances. The mother, however, succeeded in rearing her large family in a creditable manner, and then departed this life in 1848. Our subject remained with and lent his aid to the support of the family and his mother till her death. November 12, 1848, he married Miss Eliza Reed, who was born in Berks County, Penn., February 27, 1825, and to their union have been born five children - Lavina, Emma, Adaline, Simon and Abraham. Mr. Tressler remained on a farm in Ohio till 1853, when he brought his family to this county, located three miles southwest of South Whitley, farmed there till 1865, and then purchased the present well-improved farm of eighty acres near the village. Mr. and Mrs. Tressler began married life with no means, but through their united industry and economy have secured a comfortable home. Mr. Tressler is a man of broad views, is a liberal subscriber to periodical literature, is a well-informed and useful citizen and a stanch Republican.

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

MICHAEL WAUTZ, deceased, was born in Adams County, Penn., December 1, 1809, and when a boy came with his parents to Preble County, Ohio, and was there reared to manhood, receiving only a limited education. In December, 1832, he married Miss Mary Smyres, who was born April 13, 1814, in Adams County, Penn. In 1836, Mr. Wautz came to this county and entered 240 acres of land in Section 31, in what is now Cleveland Township, and then returned to Ohio, and that fall he sent out his brother-in-law, David Smyres, to make some improvements, deaden trees, etc. In 1837, Mr. Wautz received his land patent, signed by President Van Buren, and in 1838 came with his family to his possessions in this county. There were three children in his family at that time, and seven were born to him in this State - ten in all -viz.: Sarah, Abraham, Ann R., Amanda, William J., Nelson, Martin, Albert P., Peter E. and Callista E. He brought with him a blind horse and a yoke of oxen -no money- and he saw many hardships and privations, and there are few of the old settlers who were better or more favorably known than Mr. Wautz . He was a Democrat and a member of the Lutheran Church. He accumulated much property and was liberal in his donations to religious, educational and other worthy objects. He died April 22, 1881, his wife having departed some years before. Frederick Wautz, brother of the above gentleman, came to Cleveland Township with his wife, who was Catharine Wysung, and family, in 1845. They were industrious and well-to-do people, and had a family of seven children. Frederick died September 19, 1879, and was a good man and useful citizen. Albert P. Wautz, son of Michael, was born in Cleveland Township, February 20, 1853. He was reared on his father's farm, receiving a good common-school education. He married Miss Sarah A. Ward, October 14, 1878. She was born in this township September 12, 1861. Albert P. owns 180 acres of the old homestead, and is well posted on farming, stock raising and the affairs of the day, and is a young man of prominence and ability.

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