SAMUEL BECHTEL (deceased). It is always a pleasure to deal with the history of one who is a member of one of those grand old families who have for generations been distinguished for patriotism, the genuine spirit of Christianity and the strong characteristics which have made them men of mark. Samuel Bechtel was born in Blair county, Penn., December 27, 1844, and was a descendant of one of the repre¬sentative families of Elkhart county, Ind. He was the eldest son born to Daniel Bechtel (see sketch), and when but a boy was brought by his parents to Elkhart county and reared amid the pioneer surroundings of Harrison township. He obtained a good business education in the common schools of that township, but being of a studious turn of mind, he was mainly self-educated, all his spare time being spent with his books. He was a man possessed of excellent business acumen, generous, true-hearted and hospitable instincts, and, being kind and sociable in disposition, he won numerous friends and rarely lost them. His death, which occurred July 1, 1887, was the occasion of universal sorrow, for all felt the loss to be sustained by the departure of such a friend. As a business man he had few equals and, although he was self-made and started at the bottom of the ladder, he climbed to the top round of success in social and business circles. When the tocsin of war sounded to arms during the late unpleasantness between the North and South our subject donned his suit of blue, shouldered his musket and August 13, 1862, enlisted in Company E, Seventy-Fourth Indiana Volunteer Infantry. The only time he ever disobeyed his father was when he enlisted. He served until June 9, 1865, and was then dis¬charged at Washington, D. C. He was a good and faithful soldier, participated in many battles and was wounded once in the hand. A prominent member of the Masonic fraternity, he was much interested in this order and was a member of the lodge of Nappanee at the time of his death. He was also a member of the G. A. R. lodge. For eleven years before his death he was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and assisted in building the new church at Nappanee. He took a great interest in all worthy movements and none were allowed to fail for want of support on his part. In 1884 he and his father and brother Henry established the Farmers' & Traders' Bank of Nappanee, the first bank in that town, and it is now owned by Samuel Coppes & Son. This he operated successfully until his death. Mr. Bechtel was a shrewd, far-seeing business man, a banker of the soundest judgment and a public spirited and progressive citizen. He made a good property and at the time of his death left a large estate of land and town property He was accidentally killed in a gravel bank near Nappanee. May 1, 1877, he was married to Miss Mary Myers, a native of Hillsdale, Mich., born July 13,1854, and a daughter of Andrew and Rosena (Negline) Myers, both natives of Germany. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Myers came to this country and settled in Michigan, where they lived at Hillsdale. Shortly after the birth of their daughter Mary they moved to Elkhart county, settling in Goshen. Since that time Mr. Myers has been a resident of this county. He was the father of six children, as follows: John G. S. Myers, M. D., who is well known in Indiana; George F., a resident of Indiana; Anna L., wife of Frank Plank of New Paris, Elkhart county; M--, the wife of Jacob Nald, of Nappanee; Andrew, resid¬ing in Chicago and Mrs. Bechtel. The latter was a child when she came to this county and has passed nearly all her life in Goshen. She taught in the schools of that town for some time and is a woman of fine character and much learning. After marriage she and her husband made their home in Goshen until 1884, when they moved to Nappanee and there resided until the death of Mr. Bechtel, when she returned with her children to Goshen. The children are named as follows: Daniel M., born November 12, 1878, attending school; Esther, born December 18, 1880; Joy G., born May 23, 1884; Samuel B., born June 30, 1886, and died September 13, 1887. Mrs. Bechtel believes in the Christian religion, is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and is a regular attendant at its services.

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JOHN BECHTEL is not only a gentleman in every sense of the word but as a business man is shrewd, practical and far-seeing, well qualified to discharge the nec¬essary duties of life and well adapted to the active life he has led. He comes of one of the finest families of the county, being next to the youngest brother born to Daniel and Sarah (Neterer) Bechtel, whose sketch precedes this. He is a product of the county in which he now resides, his natal day occurring on June 11, 1854, on the old family homestead in Harrison township, on which his brother-in-law, Martin McDonald, is now residing. The common country schools in the vicinity of his home furnished him with a fair education, but the general routine of his life did not differ materially from that of the average farmer's boy, for his winters were thus spent in his efforts to secure an education and his summers in assisting on the home farm. He remained with his father until he was twenty-five years of age, then started out to do for himself and with his brother Jeremiah, began working in the saw-mill in Union township. During the four years that he followed this occupation his efforts were crowned with success, but at the end of that time he purchased ninety acres where he now lives, which even then was a well-improved place. The work of farming has proved a congenial occupation to him, and as he is of a very energetic temperament, his worldly possessions have continued to increase in size, until he is now regarded as one of the wealthy farmers of the township. He also gives a considerable portion of his attention to the raising of cattle and especially sheep, an occupation for which his farm seems well adapted, and for which he seems to have a decided taste. He has always taken an active part in politics, has held the office of justice of the peace for four years and was reelected, but not caring to devote his time to the office did not qualify. As he has always been interested in the public-school question, he has been appointed by the court, on various occasions, as trustee for different heirs and guardians. His success in life is owing to his own push and enterprise and also to the fact that in his vocabulary there is no such word as fail. He is a man whom to know is to honor, and his numerous friends testify to his many worthy qualities as a citizen, friend and neighbor. In the fall of 1884 he united his fortunes with those of Miss Susan Clouse, who was born in Harrison township, Elkhart Co., Ind., December 6, 1863, and in this county grew to womanhood. She is the mother of one daughter, Myrtle, who was born on June 17, 1891. Mr. and Mrs. Bechtel may well be classed among the prominent young people of the county, for they are well known and command respect from all who have the honor of their acquaintance. They have a very fine farm and the improvements thereon are much above the average, being a very substantial and attractive kind. They have a large brick residence, a fine and commodious bank barn which will hold a large amount of hay and grain and will accommodate a great deal of his stock. Mrs. Bechtel is the daughter of Daniel and Mary (Jones) Clouse, the former of whom is now a resident of Kosciusko county, Ind., and is residing on a farm near Milford. Daniel was born in Pennsylvania to John and Susan Clouse, also of that State, who early became residents of Ohio and later of Elkhart county, Ind. Daniel was one of nine children: Sarah, Susan, Mary, Daniel, Benjamin, William, Lina, Lavina and Rebecca. In the State of Ohio Daniel Clause and Mary Jones were married, after which they removed to Elkhart county, Ind., and for many years resided in Harrison township on a farm, but later took up their residence in Kosciusko county. They had a family of three sons and four daughters: Eliza, Caroline, Chauncey, Joseph, Noah, Susan (Mrs. Bechtel), Melissa. Mrs. Clouse is a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Humenell) Jones, who were early settlers of Madison county, Ohio, and the parents of six children: Mary, Levi, Henry, Eliza, David and Daniel. Mr. and Mrs. Jones have been residents of Harrison township, Elkhart county for many years and have long been members of the Mennonite Church. Mr. and Mrs. Clouse lived in Ohio for some years, but have long been residents of Elkhart county, and here reared their family of ten children: Eliza., who married Louis Clipp, a well-to-do farmer, has six children; Caroline, wife of David Greenham, of Nappanee, has eleven children; John, died at the age of fifteen years; Chauncy is a farmer of Kosciusko county, is married and has three children; Joseph is living in the same county, is married and has two children; Noah lives there also, and he and his wife have one child; Daniel died at the age of two years; Susan is the wife of John Bechtel and was born on December 6, 1863; Melissa is the wife of Milton Brumbaugh, has two children; and Lewis who died at the age of eighteen months. The parents of these children are still living on a farm and are in the enjoyment of a large circle of friends. Mr. Clouse is a Democrat, politically, and has always manifested much interest in the development of his section.

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HENRY BECHTEL. There is something essentially American in the life and character of the gentleman who is the subject of this sketch. The United States has given rare opportunities to men with courage, honesty of purpose, integrity and energy, to achieve success. The bulk of the men who have legitimately achieved fortune have been men with the above characteristics, and Mr. Bechtel is sui generis one of that stamp. His success as a business man and citizen has come of his devotion to right and his tenacity of purpose. There is no man in Elkhart county, Ind., who stands higher in the estimation of the people, both in business and social circles, than he, and no man has done more to advance the interest of the county. Mr. Bechtel was the third child and second son born to Daniel Bechtel (see sketch), his birth occurring in Blair county, Penn., April 6, 1846, and was only a child when his parents made the trip to the Buckeye State. Later they moved to Elkhart county, Ind., and he there gained a practical education in the district school of Harrison township, but much of his time was given to clearing the farm, for he was put to work as soon as possible. Until twenty-one years of age he labored manfully on his father's farm, clearing and grubbing in the woods, thus gaining a thorough knowledge of the lumber trade; and the only break in this monotonous employment was when he enlisted in the army when seventeen years of age. He went out to service in Company D, One Hundred and Twenty-sixth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, was in active duty for 100 days, the term of his enlistment, and was then discharged. Six days later he re-enlisted in Company D, Thirty-fifth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served twelve months, taking part in a number of hard-fought battles and many skirmishes. His first engagement was at Pulaski, Tenn. Later he was in the bloody battle of Franklin, Tenn., and in the battle of Nashville, that State. Upon his second enlistment he was promoted to corporal, and held that position until cessation of hostilities. He was a brave and gallant officer, was ever to be found at the front and discharged his duties in an able and most efficient manner. He was never wounded or taken prisoner. His discharge was received in Texas at the close of the war and he returned home, where he remained with his parents until twenty-one years of age. He was one of the youngest soldiers from Elkhart county, and his conduct during that trying period is spoken of in the highest praise by all his surviving comrades. When he reached his majority Mr. Bechtel started out to fight the battle of life, and after a few years as an agriculturist he branched out in the saw-mill and lumber business. In that he met with excellent success and for twenty years was engaged in that line, but at the same time he embarked in other business enterprises, all of which have netted him substantial results. He has carried on agricultural pursuits in a very successful manner, and as a stockman he has few equals and no superiors in the county. He is now residing in one of the best improved farms in Elkhart county, Harrison township, and since 1888 has been a member of Elkhart County Draft Horse Importing Company. He, in company with John Whisler, Peter Tallens and Emil Goormachtigh, own the Spring Brook Stock Farm, and this company is one of the strongest and most popular enterprises in the county. This company is engaged in importing Belgium Draft and German coach horses, and they have a large barn on Spring Brook Farm where they can accommodate several hundred bead of horses. Mr. Bechtel is a reliable business man, is held in the most favorable repute, owing to his enterprise and his upright, honorable business methods. He formerly had an interest in the Farmer's & Trader's Bank at Nappanee, and is now a stockholder in the State Bank of Goshen, organized in 1892. For the past few years he has been engaged in many paying enterprises with Mr. John Whisler. Mr. Bechtel is the proprietor of an extensive carriage factory at Wakarusa, managed by John Witmer and there manufactures all kinds of carriages and buggies, also carts, and harness of all kinds. This business under Mr. Bechtel's supervision bas grown to be a complete success and many hands are employed. In politics our subject supports the principles of the Republican party and takes a deep interest in the political issues of the day. He has ever been active in his support of all worthy enterprises, and no man has done more toward the improvement and development of the county than he. All his accumulations are the result of his own exertions except what was left by his father at his death, in 1890. In 1867 Mr. Bechtel married Miss Mary Otto, daughter of John and Polly (Price) Otto, who for many years have been residents of Elkhart county, and are now residing in Goshen (see sketch). Mrs. Bechtel wall born in Ohio, May 30, 1848, and died in 1888, having become the mother of six children: Alice M., born August 17, 1888, the wife of John O. Shank, a prominent young farmer of Harrison township, who comes of one of the leading pioneer families of the county and is now residing on the old Shank homestead: Charles I. was born February 1, 1871, and is a book-keeper in the buggy factory owned by his father in Wakarusa; Sarah J. was born August 16, 1873, is an accomplished young lady; Nora G. was born May 2, 1878; Daniel O. was born May 11, 1880; and John H., who was born June 17, 1882. The mother of the children was an earnest Christian, and reared her family to be a credit to her. On December 19, 1891, Mr. Bechtel took for his second wife Amanda J., the daughter of Peter Nusbaum, an old pioneer of the county; and they are living in the enjoyment of many friends and a comfortable income.

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DAVID BECHTEL, the youngest son of Daniel Bechtel, was born on July 7, 1863, on the old homestead in Harrison township, Elkhart county. He was reared to the life of a farmer's boy, thoroughly learned the practical details of this work, and in the common schools near his home he gained a fair business education. He remained with his father assisting in the management of a large farm, and upon the death of the latter the entire management of the place fell upon his shoulders, and found them in every way broad enough to bear their burden. He not only tills 100 acres of his own, but also has the management of a like amount which belongs to his mother. He is a steady, energetic and upright young man and in the conduct of his affairs has shown that he possesses good business judgment and foresight and is thoroughly alive to the fact that "The Lord helps him who helps himself." Politically a Republican, he has taken much interest in the affairs of his section, and is always found ready to assist enterprises that, according to his excellent judgment, are likely to benefit the section in which he resides. He possesses superior business ability, as the thrifty appearance of his land would indicate, and through his own exertions has made rapid advancement on the road to success. Stockraising is to him one of the most agreeable branches of his line of work, and he is considered one of the intelligent stockmen of his section. Through current literature and practical experience he keeps himself well posted in agricultural matters and possesses intelligent views on all matters of general interest. In 1891 he was married to Emma, daughter of Abraham and Louesia (Wehmeyer) Shank, who were early pioneers of Harrison township and are now deceased. Mrs. Bechtel was born February 22, 1866, grew up in Harrison township, obtained a good education in the district schools and being an intelligent and amiable lady, is much admired by all. Mr. and Mrs. Bechtel both sprung from fine old pioneer families, who did much to make the country the fine agricultural region that it is, and have every reason to be proud of their ancestry. They are among the most popular and useful young residents of the county and are deservedly popular.

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PROFESSOR WILLIAM H. SIMS is one of the prominent educators of northern Indiana, and of Scotch-Irish descent, his father, William Sims, having been born near Glasgow, Scotland, at Kilmanoch, in 1811. The grandfather, James Sims was a mechanic of that village. He married Miss Mary Primrose and became the father of six children: Mary, William, James, Alexander, Robert and Andrew. James Sims was a Scotch Presbyterian, and one of his brothers was connected with the famous rebellion in Scotland. He passed the principal part of his life in his native country, but when quite advanced in years crossed the ocean to America and here received his final summons, dying in Cincinnati on his way to locate in Indiana. William Sims, his son, and the father of our subject, received but limited scholastic advantages in youth, for when quite young he began learning the cooper's trade of his father. When eighteen years of age he braved Neptune's tender mercies and came to America, locating at La Fayette, Ind., where he worked at his trade for some time. In a short time he entered eighty acres of land in Clinton county, Ind., and on this settled with his widowed mother, who kept house for him until after he had reached the age of twenty-one years, when he married Miss Mary Ferguson daughter of Henry Ferguson. Henry Ferguson was of Irish descent; his immediate ancestors came to America at an early date. Settling in Kentucky he remained there for many years, and then moved to Hamilton county, Ind. He reared a large family. To Mr. and Mrs. Sims were born seven children, as follows: Nancy, James, Robert, Lois, W. H., Mary and Margaret. Mr. Sims had the characteristic Scotch grit and pluck, and by thrift and industry improved his original tract of land until he owned over 300 acres, one of the finest farms in Clinton county. He began with nothing but a knowledge of his trade, a stout heart, hardy constitution, and a determination to succeed. He was a pioneer of Clinton county, one of the county's honorable, upright citizens, and a friend to all good causes, especially to education, giving all his children a good education. His integrity and uprightness were above reproach, and he early impressed all his children with good principles and a love of truth. He naturally possessed a bright intellect, had a great love for literature, and became well informed on all the best writers, especially historical writers, and on all the important events of his day. In politics he was a Democrat until the war, after which he affiliated with the Republican party. He was a strong Union man during the war, and sent one son, Robert M., to the army. The latter became first lieutenant of Company D, Seventy-second Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry - afterward mounted and armed with Winchester rifles and known as Wilder's Brigade. The principal business of this brigade was to pursue guerrillas who were annoying the Union troops. Lieut. Sims was wounded in a skirmish with guerrillas in northern Mississippi, and permanently disabled. Prof. W. H. Sims, son of William Sims, was born July 10, 1845, on his father's farm in Clinton county, Ind., and was early trained to farm life. He received the usual district-school education, and subsequently attended Union Academy at Lebanon, Ind., for two years. After this he taught school in Clinton county two terms, and then embarked in mercantile pursuits in Thorntown, Boone county, continuing this for about two years. Afterward he attended the National Normal University at Lebanon, Ohio, and then entered upon what has since been his life work - an educator. Prof. Sims was successful from the start, and as an instructor his peculiar capabilities shine forth in their brighest splendor. He was principal of the school at Greenfield, Ind., and afterward principal of the schools at Cambridge City, Ind., for two years. In 1884 he came to Goshen and will soon have rounded out a decade as superintendent of the city schools. Prof. Sims has, as is shown by his long stay in Goshen, made teaching a complete success and his untiring energy, unflagging zeal, and ceaseless devotion manifested in the promotion of educational improvements, have been highly appreciated. Since coming to Goshen the attendance has increased more than one-fourth. There are about 1,300 pupils. The high school, showing the most marked increase of from sixty to 135 pupils, now employs four teachers instead of two. In 1884 the full number of teachers was twenty-one, but is now thirty-one. One new building has been erected, doubling the capacity, and other buildings have been greatly enlarged. The kindergarten system has been introduced in the primary department, manual training has also been introduced with marked benefit, and an effort will be made to enlarge these departments. Since Prof. Sims has had charge of the schools he has completely abolished the old method of discipline, corporal punishment being abandoned, and finds a better feeling resulting from milder methods, better discipline obtained, and mutual respect is gained. The old feeling that a teacher is a hard and merciless taskmaster is replaced by confidence and a spirit of emulation. Socially Prof. Sims is a member of the I. O. O. F. Both he and Mrs. Sims are members of the Presbyterian Church and he is superintendent of the Sabbath-school. Politically a stanch Republican, he is an earnest advocate of the principles of his party. Prof. Sims is president of the Northern Indiana Teachers Association and was chairman of the executive committee of the same in 1888. He is a member of the State Teachers Association, was chairman of the executive committee, and he is also a member of the Northern Indiana School Superintendent Club. He is an active worker and lecturer in the Teachers Association throughout the State. Broad minded and liberal, he is in favor of reform and progress, is a liberal patron of educational literatore and a wide reader. He is a clear thinker, a logical reasoner, an expressive talker, and has unique, orderly and systematic method, in educational work. In 1867 Prof. Sims married Miss Elizabeth McFarland, and they are the parents of one son, Charles G., who graduated from Du Pauw University and is now practicing law at Omaha, Neb. Mrs. Sims died five years after marriage, and on the 3d of August, 1875, Prof. Sims married Miss Frances Bradley. He owns a comfortable home in Goshen and is in prosperous circumstances. He is now in the prime of life, of strong natural constitution and vigorous mind and stands deservedly high throughout the State as one of the leading educators.

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JOHN CONRAD, the second child born to the marriage of Solomon Conrad (see sketch of David Conrad), was born on his father's farm in Jackson township, Elkhart Co., Ind., January 13, 1849, and was reared amid pioneer surroundings. Like most farmer boys of that period, he attended school during the winter months, and assisted in clearing the farm during the summer seasons, and thus engaged, remained under the parental roof until twenty-two years of age. He then started out to make his own way in life, and on February 9, 1871, was married to Miss Eliza Liveringhouse who was the daughter of John and Mary (Lehr) Liveringhouse. The Liveringhouses were Ohio people, and John Liveringhouse moved to Elkhart county at an early date, and settled in Elkhart township, near Goshen. Later, in 1879, he moved to Kosciusko county, and followed farming there for many years. In Elkhart county he was married to Mrs. Nancy Miller, a native of that county, and the daughter of one of its pioneers. Mrs. Conrad was born August 25, 1850, and was left; motherless when but a baby. She attained her growth in Jackson township, and attended the district school. She is the younger of two children, the other being William. Her father married Mrs. Nancy Miller, and five children were the fruits of this union; Lizzie, Mary, Etta, John and Mervin. John died young. After marriage Mr. Conrad settled on the farm where he now lives, which was then but partly improved, and since then has made many and vast improvements in the place, having now one of the best farms in his section. He has eighty acres cleared, and most or his attention is given to raising stock and grain. He takes much interest in politics, his vote being ever cast with the Democratic party. Two children have been born to his marriage: Frank, born September 21, 1871, and Fred, born January 15, 1886. Frank is now twenty-one years of age, and his first presidential vote was cast for Grover Cleveland in the fall of 1892. He has received good educational advantages, supplementing the district school education by attending Milford public schools, and for the past few years he has been assisting on the farm. Mr. Conrad and wife are well liked in the neighborhood, and are among the best citizens of the county. Mr. Conrad and his son are engaged in buying and selling stock, and has met with great success in this occupation. The farm on which he lived so many years he sold in the fall of 1892. Mr. Conrad is a self-made man in the true sense of that term, and is now one of the substantial men of the neighborhood. He and wife adopted a daughter, Birtie May, when she was ten months old, and they have taken much pains with this little lady, and reared her as their own. She was born October 10, 1882.

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MYRON E. MEADER. The position occupied by Mr. Meader as one of the most enterprising and energetic young business men of Goshen, has been gained wholly by his excellent business acumen and unquestioned integrity. He is well and favorably known in Goshen, and although but recently established in his present business, he is rapidly becoming one of the most successful business men of this flourishing city. He is of English descent, and comes of good old New England stock, his ancestors having settled in this country during colonial times. His father, David Meader was born in Vermont, and was married at Elkhart to Miss Almira Cole. He settled on wild land a short distance south of Elkhart, and was one of the respected pioneer citizens of this county, as well as one of the most substantial farmers. He was a member of the United Brethren Church, and in politics a stalwart Republican, and a strong Union man. He had one son in the army during the Rebellion; William J., who enlisted in the Seventy-fourth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, but who was discharged for disability. Later he re-enlisted in the one hundred days' service. Myron E. Meader, subject of this sketch, was born March 19, 1856, in Elkhart county, Ind., and his early scholastic training was received in the district schools of the same. Later he graduated from the Elkhart High School, and then read law with Baker & Mitchell of Goshen for four years, being admitted to the bar in 1879. In connection with his practice he was also engaged in the real estate and insurance business with J. H. Defrees, now of Chicago, under the firm name of Defrees & Meader. Later he was in partnership with E. Louis Kuhns in the insurance, real estate and abstract business, under the name of Meader & Kuhns, and still later became a partner in the law office of Baker & Baker, having charge of the collection and office business. In April, 1891, he became one of the incorporators of the Ariel Cycle Manufacturing Company, and was elected one of the directors. He is also secretary, treasurer and business manager of the company, which has a capital stock of $25,000, the full amount being invested in their plant. The company has invested a much larger amount than their capital stock, at least $100,000. Mr. Meader is the active business spirit, and has built up a large trade amounting to $300,000 annually. 2,000 machines are manufactured annually, and this large business has been built up within a period of two years. The company is now extending the manufactory, that its capacity may be increased. Mr. Meader is a practical and energetic business man, and stands deservedly high in Goshen for his integrity of character. In October, 1886, he married Miss Lulu Stephenson, daughter of Andrew J. and Eliza (Felkner) Stephenson, and one child, Mac E., has blessed this union. Socially Mr. Meader is a K. P., and has filled all the offices in the subordinate lodge, and politically he is a faithful Republican.

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JOHN MICHAEL. The sons of Germany are well represented in Elkhart county, and they hold conspicuous places in many pursuits which makes that county a substantial star in the galaxy of Indiana's many interesting counties. John Michael, who is one of the prominent agriculturists of the same, is a descendant of sturdy German stock, and no doubt inherits from these ancestors the perseverance and industry so characteristic of those of German nativity. His father, Paul Michael, was born in the Fatherland about 1772, and received a limited education there . He learned the mason's trade in his native country, and was married there to Miss Barbara Fink, who bore him four children, as follows: Aaron, George, Barbara and John, all natives of Germany. The advantages afforded a resident of the United States tempted him to cross the ocean, and in 1833, with his family, he took passage in an old-fashioned sailing vessel, and was eight weeks and six days in crossing to this country. He landed in Baltimore, Md., but went direct to Somerset county, Penn., where he bought 100 acres of land. On this he resided for two and a half years, and then, about 1836, he moved to Darke county, Ohio, and settled in the woods. He first bought sixty-two acres, and immediately began clearing and improving this. On this he resided for eighteen years and then, in 1854, moved to Elkhart county, Ind., where he purchased 110 acres. This land was partly cleared, and on this Mr. Michael died within a year, at the age of seventy-six years. He and Mrs. Michael were members of the Lutheran Church and Mr. Michael was deacon in the same for about ten or twelve years. In politics he was a Democrat. He had been a soldier when a young man, and served in the war against Napoleon for four years. He served in the hospital for two years. Mr. Michael's reputation as an honorable, upright citizen was well known, and his word was as good as his bond. He was one of those sterling German citizens who came to this country for an honest purpose, and from this kind of sturdy German stock have descended many of the best families. John Michael, subject of this sketch, was born in Germany November 22, 1828, and was five years of age when he was brought by his parents to this country. The Ohio country being new, he received but a limited education, not more than two months of schooling all told, and when but a small boy all his energies were directed toward clearing the different farms on which his father settled. When twenty-four years of age he married Miss Mollie Bintner, and seven children were born to them: John Paul, George, Lewis, Edward, Harvey, Lizzie and Caroline. In 1854 Mr. Michael came with his father to Elkhart county, settled on the same farm, and here he has since remained. His wife died August 10, 1891. She was a lady of superior attainments, and his most efficient helpmate when struggling for a start in life. She was a member of the Lutheran Church, and Mr. Michael holds membership in the same at the present time. In his political views he is a stanch supporter of Democratic principles. Public spirited and enterprising, he has ever been interested in all worthy movements, and has held the office of supervisor. His son, John Paul, married Miss Kate, daughter of Martin Miller, and is engaged in farming in Elkhart township. Five children have been born to them. George married Miss Lizzie Liveringhouse, daughter of John Liveringhouse, and is engaged in carpentering in Goshen; they have four children. Lewis married Miss Rettie Goss, and has two children; he is a teamster of Goshen. Edward married Miss Elizabeth Snyder, and is a farmer of this township; he has two children. Lizzie married Frank Inbody, a farmer of Harrison township, this county, and they have two children. Caroline married Allen Inbody, a farmer now residing on the home place, and is the mother of one child. Thus it may be seen that Mr. Michael is the grandfather of sixteen children. By industry and enterprise he has added to his property until he now owns 176 acres of land, a good house, substantial barns and out buildings, and is very comfortably situated indeed. He stands high in the, estimation of all.

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LEANDER ANDERSON, Elkhart. Ind. It is doubtless entirely owing to the industrious, and persevering manner with which Mr. Anderson has adhered to the pursuits of agriculture that he has arisen to such substantial position in farm affairs in his county. His entire life has been spent within the confines of Elkhart county, and as a natural result he is much interested in the progress and development of the section and has done his full share in making it the magnificent farming region that it now is. His birth occurred July 12, 1848, his parents being Noah and Mary A. (Hay) Anderson, who were born in Delaware and Pennsylvania respectively. The parental grandfather was an Englishman by birth and the maternal grandfather was born in Germany and both died in the Eastern States. Noah Anderson first removed from, the State to Montgomery county, Ohio, but left that State in 1832 to take up his abode in Elkhart county, Ind., becoming the owner of 200 acres of land in Harrison township, for which he paid the government price. He brought his family thither in 1837, and they took up their residence in a little log cabin in which they resided until better improvements could be made. Like all pioneers his first residence in the State was marked by hard work and numerous hardships, but in time he succeeded in clearing his land, which had been heavily covered with timber, and converted it into one of the finest farms in the county. He worked for a short time at Waterford Mills, which was the first mill in the county, and later conducted a plow factory at Waterford Mills for some time. His numerous worthy qualities of heart and head won him the good will and respect of all with whom he was connected or whom he met in a social or business way and as a result he was elected to the legislature in 1860, filling the duties of his office with marked ability and to the general satisfaction of his political foes as well as friends. He served as county commissioner a number of terms, also township trustee and justice of the peace, in each and all or which he displayed the workings of an active and intelligent mind. He was a stanch Republican politically and worked for the good of his party on all occa¬sions, and in the political arena of his section became quite prominent. He died September 29, 1874. His wife died in 1885, having presented her husband with ten children, six of whom are living: Isabelle, wife of Samuel Kahler of Dixon, Illinois; Esther, wife of Nicholas Reith; Uriah of Elkhart; Delinda, wife of B. F. Sternberg; Amanda and Leander; Uriah was a soldier in the Seventy-fourth Indiana Volunteers, but did not serve long, owing to the fact that he was disabled; Warren, who is deceased, was in the One-hundredth Ohio Regiment, but after a short service was taken sick and returned home (he died August 17, 1891); Felix died February 18 of the same year; two died in infancy. The immediate subject of this biography was brought up on the farm and was educated in the public schools. Being the youngest of the family he remained at home until his parents died. In the fall of 1883 he purchased the place he now owns, which at that time consisted of eighty-four acres of land just as nature had fashioned it. This he purchased from Isaac Compton, who entered it in 1837, and although it was heavily covered with timber he has cleared sixty-five acres and has made many other improvements on the place. Besides this he owns eighty acres in Harrison township, which he purchased in the same way and has fifty-five acres of this place cleared, and has erected a good house thereon. There are few young men of the present day who can boast of so much enterprise, and what he has accomplished bas been at the expense of many days of hard and persistent labor, but the result has been in every way satisfactory. He is the owner of considerable property in Elkhart - two business lots on Main street and a livery barn on Harrison street - and is very much inter¬ested in the progress of his section. He has been justice of the peace of Harrison township two terms, but has never been particularly active in political affairs although he always exercises his right of franchise. All his success is due to his own efforts, for his devotion to business bas been great and his energy unflagging.

“Pictorial and Biographical Memoirs of Elkhart and St. Joseph Counties, Indiana
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1893
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LEANDER P. KURTZ, twenty-seven years of age, the eighth child of Paul H. Kurtz, was born in Harrison township on the old borne farm of his father, obtaining his education in the school near his home. Like his brother, his services were given to his father until he was twenty-one years of age, at which time be hired out to his father by the month, and remained thus employed for three years. At the end of that time his brother, Daniel P., had returned from the West, and together they purchased a threshing machine and outfit, and for two seasons they carried on that enterprise in a highly successful manner and to their credit. They then traded their machine for the saw-mill which they are now operating, and have made this a pay¬ing business likewise. All kinds of hard wood lumber is manufactured at their mill and a specialty is made of finishing lumber, in the manufacture of which they are remarkably successful. They are among the rising lumber and mill men of the county, and their product is coming into extensive use, owing to its desirability and to the prompt and upright manner in which these young men fill their contracts. While they are both young they have shown more than the average business ability, and are winning golden opinions in the business circles of the county. Leander P. has always supported Republican principles, is devoted to the welfare of his section, and so far as his means will permit he is ready and willing to support laudable enterprises. On October 15, 1891, be was married to Miss Julia Berkey, daughter of Peter D. Berkey, a prominent citizen of the county. Mrs. Kurtz was born in Har¬rison township, on her father's farm, July 8, 1872. This worthy young couple reside near the mill and are among the most popular young people of their neigh¬borhood.

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1893
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HENRY PAULUS, farmer. The subject of this biographical notice is an honorable and progressive farmer, and as such no name in the memorial department of this work is more worthy of mention. He is a product of the Keystone State, his birth occurring in Bedford county, February 28, 1825, to John and Margaret (Martin) Paulus, who were also Pennsylvanians, the paternal grandfather having lived and died in that State. He was a Dunkard minister, and established several churches of that denomination throughout the section in which he lived, for he was a faithful and earnest worker in the vineyard of the Master. He continued to preach the gospel until he had reached the extreme old age of ninety-two years, and had only ceased his active labors one year when he was called from life, his death occurring the same day and month in which he was born. John Paulus became a resident of Montgomery county, Ohio, during the pioneer days of that section, and there made his home until his death. Out of a family of thirteen children born to himself and wife, only three are living at the present time: Mary, who resides in Kosciusko county, Ind.; Henry, and Jacob, who is a resident of Silver Lake, Kosciusko Co., Ind. Daniel, another child, had two sons in the Union army during the Civil war, and Mary had a son, David, who was also one of the "boys in blue." In the private schools of Montgomery county Henry Paulus was educated, and when not pursuing his studies his attention was devoted to agriculture, in the details of which he was thoroughly drilled. He was brought up to a knowledge of farming, which occupation he fol¬lowed on the home place until the death of his parents. In 1843 he came to Elk¬hart county, Ind., by wagon, and settled at Goshen, where he followed carpentering for about three years, after which he farmed on shares for two years. In 1847 he became the owner of the farm he now owns and occupies, which at that time had only five acres cleared, on which were erected two little log cabins. He paid $4 per acre for a portion or this land and $2.50 per acre for the rest, and after taking possession of it immediately began to make improvements, and is now the owner of a first class farm, every nook and cranny of which is kept in good order. Besides this fine farm of 140 acres he owns one acre in the city of Elkhart. Mr. Paulus is one of the pioneers of the township, and has witnessed the growth of the country from a wild state to the highest state of civilization, and where once was unbroken forests are now waving fields of grain. He well remembers when deer would come within a few rods of his cabin and wolves could be heard howling throughout the night. They wore the homespun clothing of primitive days, and although they were compelled to labor hard and do without many of the luxuries which seem so indispensable at the present time, they were contented and happy, and prospered in spite of adverse circumstances. The first eight years of his residence in the county Mr. Paulus helped to raise forty-two cabins and cut the corners for each one of them. They swapped work in those days, but for some reason or other Mr. Paulus was never paid in kind, and was compelled to do the principal part of his own work himself, notwithstanding the fact that he was very obliging in helping his neighbors. In 1846 Miss Susan Cripe, daughter of Daniel Cripe, became his wife, and to them fourteen children were born, seven of whom are living: Daniel; Sarah, who resides in Michigan; Elizabeth, who resides in Elkhart; Levi, also of this county; Jacob; Emanuel and Maggie. Mr. Paulus was road supervisor for nine years, and is a member of the Dunkard Church. He is now retired from active business life, and is in the enjoyment of a fortune which his own industry earned him. He had $40 in cash upon his settlement in the State, and after many ups and downs he finally found himself out of deep water and floating on a prosperous tide.

“Pictorial and Biographical Memoirs of Elkhart and St. Joseph Counties, Indiana
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1893
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PROF. GEORGE W. ELLIS. It has been truly said that "a good education is the best inheritance that parents can leave their children." Riches may take to themselves wings and flyaway, but a good education will last through life. One of the prominent educators of Elkhart county, Ind., is Prof. George W. Ellis, who inherits all his push, energy and enterprise from good, old Scotch-Irish ancestors. William Ellis, grandfather of the Professor, was born in the north of Ireland, of Scotch-Irish stock, and was there educated. After reaching man's estate he became a farmer, and was married on the Green Isle of Erin to Miss Mary Vams, who bore him seven children, as follows: Richard, William, Thomas, Mary, Sarah, Josephine and James, all natives of Ireland. Led by the promises of the fertile land of this country, William Ellis crossed the ocean in about 1832, and first settled in Lancaster county, Penn. From there he moved to Holmes county, Ohio, bought a large tract of wild land, of which he cleared 120 acres, and became a substantial farmer. He and wife were members of the Lutheran Church, and he was an old line Whig in politics. His death occurred in 1871, when about seventy years of age. He was a strict Union man, and had one son, James, in the Civil war. All his life was spent in hard labor, and during the latter part of his days he was surrounded by many of the comforts and conveniences of life. His son, James, father of subject, was born August 13, 1828, and received but a limited common-school education. He was about ten years of age when he came to America with his father, and as¬sisted on the home place until seventeen years of age, when he began learning the blacksmith's trade. He was married in Holmes county, Ohio, to Miss Mary Thompson, daughter of James and Annie (Luzzard) Thompson, and the following children were born to them: John, Seth, George W., William S., Alice and Elmer. In 1855 Mr. Ellis moved to Stark county, Ohio, and worked at his trade there, becoming foreman of the Agricultural Implement Works, of Milton, Ohio, now Wilmott, Ohio. There he passed the remainder of his days, dying in 1870. In 1864 he enlisted in Company K, One Hundred and Sixty-third Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, as a private and was soon promoted to the rank of second lieutenant. Shortly after being in the service he was taken sick and was honorably discharged, but was never able to do any manual labor after returning from the army. In politics he affiliated with the Republican party. His character was without a blemish and his noble conduct has reflected upon his children, making them good and useful citizens. George W. Ellis, son of the above, owes his nativity to Berlin, Holmes Co., Ohio, born September 15, 1850, and secured a good education in the common schools. He subsequently attended Greenbury Seminary, Somerset Co., Ohio; the University at Smithville, Wayne Co., Ohio, and the Mt. Union College, at Mt. Union, Ohio. In 1860 he began teaching in the district schools, continuing this twelve years in the schools of Ohio. After this he taught six years in the graded schools of Napoleon, Ohio, and in 1884 came to Goshen, where he became principal of the Fifth school, continuing with the same for four years. In 1888 he was elected county superintendent of Elkhart county and was re-elected in 1890. At the first election he was not well known in the county, but although there were eleven candidates for the office, he was elected. The second time he had a large majority in his favor. Professor Ellis has given the people of Elkhart county satisfaction in the management of the schools and has made a radical change in the course of study, so that the pupils of the district schools can come directly from the country schools to the high school, and after graduating there can, if they so desire, be admitted to the State University at Bloomington, Ind. Under the administration of Professor Ellis the teachers' institutes are well attended, an active interest is shown, a decided improvement made and a very harmonious feeling been cultivated among the teachers. An unique feature of the improvements inaugurated by Professor Ellis is the exhibit of the county schools at the Elkhart Agricultural Association. By the efforts of Professor Ellis a building was erected on the Fair grounds, and the first exhibit was made in 1890. This was a grand success and much interest was shown by the patrons of the district schools. An exhibit is made of all the work done in the district schools and on "School day" the children of the county meet with their teacher and a good time is had. A spirit of emulation is cultivated by this exhibit, and a good moral effect is produced. December 3, 1874, Professor Ellis married Miss Ella Bray, daughter of Gideon and Eliza (Fallen) Bray. The fruits of this union have been four interesting children: Walter C., Josie E., Mary H. and Frankie B. Socially Professor Ellis is a member of the Knights of Pythias, is chancellor commander, and has held all the offices of his lodge. In politics he supports the principles and policy of the Republican party. The Professor is a man of action, of positive character, and is well informed on all subjects of interest. He takes the leading educational periodicals of the day, has an excellent reference library and is advanced in all his views.

“Pictorial and Biographical Memoirs of Elkhart and St. Joseph Counties, Indiana
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1893
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ABRAHAM McMAINS. another of the prominent pioneer settlers of Locke township, Elkhart Co., Ind., came to his present farm in 1843 and since that time has been a resident of Locke township. Like many of the esteemed citizens of the county he is a native of the Buckeye State, born in Hamilton county, March 29, 1817, and was the eldest of a family of three children born to Benjamin and Catherine (Miller) McMains. Benjamin McMains was an early pioneer of Ohio and died in that State in 1820. He was a soldier in the War of 1812. His principal occupation in life was agriculture, but in connection he also followed the carpenter trade. In religion he was a Presbyterian and in politics a Democrat. His wife was born in Pennsylvania, and was a daughter of Abraham Miller, who was one of the early settlers of Pennsylvania, moving from that State to Kentucky. He became dissatisfied with Kentucky and decided to go farther North and first settled in Preble county, Ohio, but later in Hamilton county, that State, where his death occurred. After the death of her husband Mrs. McMains remained in Hamilton county, and there her death occurred on the old farm in 1845. In religious belief she was a German Baptist. By her first husband she was the mother of three children: Abraham, John and Hannah. Her second marriage was to Samuel Gray, and to this union were born four children: Sarah, Margaret, Benjamin and Catherine. The second and third children are living. Our subject's early life was spent on the farm in Hamilton county and he became accustomed to the duties of the farm when but a lad. When twenty-one years of age he started out to make his own way in life and in 1843 emigrated to Elkhart county, Ind., settling on the tract of land which he had taken up in 1838. This consisted of 160 acres, and he began immediately to improve it. The country was wild and unsettled, game was abundant, and he had all the experiences of pioneer settlers. He has kil1ed quite a good many deer in his day but was never very fond of hunting. By good management and perseverance he has become quite well to do and has one of the finest farms in his section. When Mr. McMains first came to Elkhart county he had but $10 in money and all his accumulations in the way of this world's goods are the fruits of his own honest industry. There were but nine voters in Locke township when he located on his farm. In politics he is a Democrat and has ever taken some interest in the political affairs of the county. At an early day he held office in the township, being township treasurer for four years, and he is now one of the public-spirited men of the county. He is now seventy-five years of age, has rented his farm, and is living retired from the active duties of life. He is one of the oldest pioneers of the township and has enjoyed single blessedness all his life. He has no living kindred in this part of the county except some distant relatives. Upright and honorable in all his dealings, Mr. McMains is one of the esteemed and respected men of the town¬ship.

“Pictorial and Biographical Memoirs of Elkhart and St. Joseph Counties, Indiana
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1893
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CHARLES D. HENKEL. The Henkels are of worthy German stock, and it is supposed that the family tree first took root on American soil when Rev. Gerhard Henkel, who was Hofprediger, came to America about the year 1718 and located at Germantown, near Philadelphia, Penn. Rev. Gerhard Henkel was a descendant of Count Henkel, of Poeltzig, the latter being descended from Johann Henkel, D. D., LL. D., born in Leutschau, Hungary, and was father confessor to Queen Maria about 1430. He sympathized with Protestantism, and maintained friendly relations with some of the leaders who were engaged in the Reformation of the sixteenth century. The manuscript of a prayer-book written by Johann Henkel, is still preserved in Breslau. Gerhard Henkel's son, Jacob, was the father of Rev. Paul Henkel, who was born December 15, 1854, near Salisbury, Rowan county, N. C., being one of the following children born to Jacob and his wife Barbara (Teters) Henkel, their names being: Moses, a Methodist minister of Pendleton county, Va.; Elizabeth (Creutz); Hannah, who was burned to death in a fort during the Indian War; Christena (Harman); Benjamin; Isaac, a Lutheran minister buried in Rockingham county, Va.; Joseph; John, a Lutheran minister buried under the pulpit of Zion's Church, Shenandoah county, Va. Rev. Paul Henkel became a minister of the Lutheran Church. He was married to Miss Elizabeth Nagley, who bore him six sons and three daughters, five of his sons becoming Lutheran ministers, and the other a doctor and publisher; Solomon, the doctor; Philip; Naomi (Rupert); Ambrose; Sabina (Adams); Andrew, the grandfather of the subject of this sketch; David; Charles, and Hannah (Stirewalt). Philip M. Henkel, the son of Andrew and the father of Charles D. Henkel, was born at Somerset, Perry Co., Ohio, September 7, 1819, his wife, Charlotte P., having been born at Germantown, Montgomery Co., Ohio, the latter being also descended from a worthy German family. Philip M. Henkel and his wife emigrated from southern Ohio to northern Indiana in 1843 and thereafter made Goshen, Elkhart county, their home. Their marriage was celebrated June 6, 1841, and resulted in the birth of the children whose names are here given: Charles D.; Frederick; Catherine Louisa; Mary Adelaide; Charlotte M.; Amelia, and Vandalain. Philip M. Henkel is an agnostic in his religious views and politically is a Democrat, and on that ticket was elected to the position of county auditor, which position he acceptably filled from 1851 to 1859. He has acceptably filled the duties and relations of life, is a man of shrewd business views and has been a successful financier, and a man highly honored by all with whom he has business relations. He is descended in direct line from Lutheran ministers since the days of the Reformation, of Dr. Martin Luther. Charles D. Henkel, his son, was born in Germantown, Montgomery Co., Ohio, March 29, 1842, but was reared and received his education in Goshen. After becoming sufficiently qualified and upon reaching a suitable age he began keeping books in the Salem Bank, with which concern he remained two years to the satisfaction of his employer, John Cook, and very much to his own credit. For several years thereafter he was in the general produce and stock business and in 1870 was elected city marshal, in which capacity he served two years. He then went into the county treasurer's office as deputy to Charles T. Greene, where he remained some three years, at the end of which time he was elected to the position of county auditor. He was a beau ideal public servant, faithful and conscientious in the discharge of his duties and agreeable and courteous to those with whom he came in contact, for which qualities he became widely known and was accordingly in the office for eight years. Since that time he has conducted a livery and sale stable, his vehicles and animals, of which he has a large number, being in excellent condition and at all times ready for use. Like his father before him he is a wide-awake man of affairs, keenly alive to his own interests, but never at the expense of others, and his friends and patrons who, without doubt, may also be counted among his friends, may be numbered by the score. He was married to Maria A. Marsh, a native of Jamestown, N. Y., February 7, 1864, by whom he has a family of six children: Louise M., wife of J. A. Beane; Olive M.; Philip W.; Isabel M.; Anna, wife of R. D. Platt of Niles, Mich., and Elizabeth. Mr. Henkel has been a life-long Democrat.

“Pictorial and Biographical Memoirs of Elkhart and St. Joseph Counties, Indiana
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1893
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Deb Murray