THIS, the largest township in the county, territorially, embraces all of the originally-surveyed township number five, range fourteen, and twelve sections of township six, range fourteen, which were added after the organization of Ottawa county. The geographical boundaries are: Ottawa county on the north, Rice and Sandusky townships on the cast, Jackson on the south, and Madison and Woodville on the west. Little Mud Creek, Big Mud Creek, and Wolf Creek flow from southwest to northeast across its territory. The soil, excepting the surface of a sand ridge extending between the two branches of Mud Creek, is a black vegetable mold, the mellowed remains of luxuriant swamp vegetation. The soil of the sand ridge spoken of is loose, and would be easily cultivated were it not for numberless boulders which were dropped by a sweeping glacier in its course toward sure destruction in sunny low latitudes. For the source of these troublesome masses of hard rock, the reader is referred to the chapter on Jackson township.

THE BLACK SWAMP.

A map of Ohio, drawn in 1825, represents an immense tract of country stretching westward from the Sandusky River to far beyond the Portage River, by a shade of varying density, and is designated by the unattractive name of "Black Swamp" and a black swamp indeed it was. Go back, in imagination, but little more than half a century ago and picture the fertile farms you cultivate as they appeared prior to the period of settlement. Frontier poets are in the habit of making us sorry because nature's simple beauty has been desecrated by the hand of enterprising man. But it is the melancholy task of history in this instance to picture a wild, desolate, almost uninhabitable waste, the sight of which made strong constitutions wither, and hearts beating high with anticipation, sicken, and fill with melancholy forebodings. The scene presented to the eye possessed no encouraging element. Trees of varying size locked tops, and were firmly bound together by vigorous vines, with branches shooting in all directions, fastened to every limb by unyielding tendrils. Carbonic gases, emitted from the water-covered muck sixty feet below, fed a luxuriant growth of foliage which completely filled every interstice, and effectually excluded every ray of sunshine. The dismal view caught in the uncertain light of this dense shade banished every idea of settlement. Immense trunks of fallen and decaying trees crossing each other in every conceivable direction, could just be seen through the thick growth of shrubs, underbrush, and coarse grasses. In spring time, in consequence of the water courses being completely dammed up by fallen timber, whole townships of surface were submerged. When dry weather came in, the water slowly found its way to the bay, leaving a spongy soil — so thoroughly saturated that even the light-footed deer found travel difficult. But these conditions favored the making of an excellent soil. Decaying timber, leaves, and grasses, left those chemical elements which enter into the composition of cereals and furnish the material for their growth. The cost of reclaiming this wilderness is beyond calculation. Picture to yourselves a solitary log hut, made of round logs, with a floor and door of rough puncheons; with two small square holes in the sides, closed with sheets of greased paper, for windows; the spaces between the logs filled with a mixture of leaves and mud; an immense chimney at one end, built of sticks, through which smoke was forced rather than drawn; covered with thin, irregularly-split shingles, weighted down by poles — such a cabin, situated in the midst of wild desolation, was the residence of the first settler. The dreary solitude of an autumn evening at that home can only be felt, not described. What a medley of discordant sounds pain the ear! What a rush of melancholy thoughts depress the heart! Armies of green frogs leave their slimy pools and assert, from every log, that they are the proud owners of the swamp, while their tree cousins mingle disagreeable voices; the howl of wolves, as night falls on the homesick pioneer, seem to speak in strange language the folly of his adventure, and the wise owl adds sarcastic hoots to the distressing medley. The sharp click of the mud which follows every labored step of the cow in the dooryard, brings additional testimony of the unfitness of the place for the habitation of man. The thoughts of the homesick, discouraged adventurer are turned from plans of clearing, plowing, and seeding, to the contemplation of his solitude; and, at length, tired and depressed, he retires to his simple bed, convinced of being an intruder in a reservation intended by nature for wolves, and frogs, and owls. It is not strange, therefore, that immigrants either turned back from the Black Swamp, or pushed through beyond, leaving this vast area, more than half of three counties, almost an unbroken waste till as late as 1828. Many who did enter land and begin improvements soon became discouraged, sold out at a sacrifice, and sought a more hospitable opening. It thus happened that, in the spring of 1830, only three families resided within the present limits of Washington township.

ORIGINAL PROPRIETORS.

The following entries are recorded in 1826:

The following entries are recorded in 1827:  

The following entries are recorded in 1828:  

The following entries are recorded in 1829:

The following are recorded in 1830:  

The following are recorded in 1831:

The following entries are recorded in 1833:

The following entries of land were recorded in 1834:

The list of each year now becomes longer. The following are recorded in 1835:  

The records of 1836 entries:

The following entries are recorded in 1837:

The entries recorded in 1838 are:

Lands were entered in 1839 by:

 The balance of the lands were closed out in 1840 as follows:

_________
Note. — Where the number of the range is not indicated, range five is meant.



THE SETTLEMENT.

The settlers of this township were nearly all natives of Pennsylvania, or of Pennsylvania descent, but a large proportion came directly from Perry county to this county; in fact, it might be called a Perry county colony, as our running sketch of the representative settlers each decade will show. Before, however, proceeding to these sketches of a personal character, we will give a "general view, and preserve the names, so far as we can, of the earliest pioneers and first improvements of the township.

The first three permanent settlers were Josiah H. Topping, David Grant, and John Wolcutt, probably in the order we have given their names. Topping kept tavern on the pike. He also owned and improved a farm, which is now included in the Waggoner farm. David Grant settled between the two branches of Big Mud Creek, about one mile above their junction. No more lonely place can be imagined. The State road was at that time travelled considerably by emigrants going west, but as far back as the Grant opening few white men ever showed their faces. Indians visited the cabin frequently, and squaws were the only physicians and nurses at the birth of their three first children. George Grant is the only member of this family living in the township at present. The Wolcutt family settled in the southeast corner of the township in 1829. The fourth settler was George Skinner, who removed from Perry county in the spring of 1830, and settled upon land entered in section twenty-six. A biographical sketch of this family will be found, together with a portrait of Samuel Skinner, esq., who was for nearly fifty years a prominent citizen of the township.

In 1830 the settlement progressed actively, so that by the end of that year obstructions to natural drainage were well removed, and the face of the country became more inviting, but continued wet and difficult to reduce to a state of cultivation. When a few hardy and resolute families had made an opening, others took courage and followed their example. Many of course remained but a few years, and then becoming weary and discontented sold their claims and sought more congenial climes. Those who remained to see the wilderness transformed have long since been repaid for their sacrifices. We will now give as briefly and accurately as possible the names of the first settlers on each section, being fully aware of our liability of being misinformed in some instances:

Joseph Cookson made the second improvement on section thirty-six, in 1830, that of John Wolcutt being first. The same year Jacob Stultz, a native of Pennsylvania, came from Perry county and settled on section twenty-five. The next neighbor north was Josiah H. Topping, and north of him on the same section, (twenty-four,) and on section thirteen, the Waggoner family took possession in the fall of 1830. Jacob Hendricks soon after built a cabin in this neighborhood. West, on the pike, on section fourteen, John and Solomon Shoup made an improvement the following year. George and John Skinner occupied section twenty-six as early as 1830, while the mile square lying just north was not broken till two years afterward, when John Baird came from Perry county and Hugh Forgerson removed to Washington. Toward the latter part of 1830 William and Samuel Black settled in the southern part of the township, in section thirty-five. The first improvement west of Skinner's, in 1830, was made by Michael Fought, who set apart the first burying-ground in the township. Shortly after, in the same year, A. G. Ross settled on an intervening lot. He was an active and useful citizen during this early period. Two years later Mr. Ross was joined on section twenty-seven by Peter Morton, who also came from Perry county, and south of him George Geeseman made an opening the same year. Samuel Spohn settled on section twenty-two in 1831. The earliest settlers on the upper part of Mud Creek, in this township, were Jacob Moses and Joseph Garn, the latter of whom came in 1831. David Grant, on section twenty-one, has already been mentioned. But to come back to the pike. Henry Forster and Daniel Karshner located on section fifteen about 1833. Christian Dershen came from Perry county and settled in this county in 1830. James Ross was the first settler on section twenty-two, 1831 being the probable date. Henry Bowman was the first settler and original proprietor of Hessville, south of the pike, and David Hess north of the pike, the latter, however, never made permanent settlement in the county. The property was transferred to his son, Levi Hess, who settled on the farm and laid out the north part of the village which was named in his
honor. Philip Overmyer, with his family of seven boys, came to the township in 1833, and were among the first settlers of the northeast part. Previous improvements had been made in the part included in the original surveyed township number six, by Henry Stierwaldt. John Bowersox, Daniel Boyer, and M. Yeagle. Mr. Yeagle was one of the noted deer hunters of his time. The northwestern part of the township was not improved till a few years later, when the German emigration began. B. H. Bowman had a tavern on the pike in 1831, just west of Hessville. The first Germans who settled toward the northwest were John Avers, E. Humers, H. Bearing, and a few others. Until recently it was not uncommon to see wooden shoes and other native German habits of dress. Avers had a small factory for making these odd-looking articles of foot ware, or more properly foot furniture. People never having seen them worn will find a ride to Woodville township interesting, for there they are worn yet by the women and some men at farm work.

South of the pike, and between Nine-mile Creek and Big Mud Creek, were several early improvements. John Mohler settled on Mud Creek in 1830, and a few years after built a saw-mill, which was the first industry of the kind in the township. David Deil settled on Mud Creek about 1830, and James Snyder the same year. Martin Garn settled in the south part of the township in 1834. The district west of Hessville, extending to the Madison township line, was not settled until the other parts of the township had been improved.

Having now given connectedly a general view of the first settlement, brief sketches of a few families will be of local interest.

Michael Fought, a native of Pennsylvania, married Elizabeth Cline, and removed to Perry county, Ohio, and from there, in 1830, to this township. Their family consisted of eleven children, six boys and five girls, two of whom, Michael and Paul, are among the oldest pioneers in the township. Michael, jr., was born in Perry county, in 1814. In 1837 he married Lydia King, and purchased and cleared the farm in section two, known as the Fought homestead. Paul Fought was born in Perry county, in 1818. He married, in this county, Mary Hettrick, who died in 1865, leaving thirteen children. He married for his second wife, in 1866, Sarah Parret, by whom three children were born. Israel, the fourth child, was born in 1844. He married Rosanna Lay, in 1869, and has three children --Festus L., Bertha M., and William A. Mr. Fought has served as teacher in the public schools of the county six years. Mr. and Mrs. Fought belong to the Reformed church.

James Snyder, a native of Virginia, set tied in this township in 1830, and lived here until the time of his death, July 12, 1876. His family consisted of ten children, six boys and four girls. Jacob, the third child, was born in this township in 1833. He married Elizabeth Slates, in 1872, and has two children living — Elvia and James. Mr. Snyder by trade is a carpenter. He is also engaged in farming.

John Waggoner, a native of Maryland, moved to Bedford county, Pennsylvania, in 1797, and m 1803 to Perry county, Ohio, where the family resided until 1830, when they came to Washington township. The family consisted of eight children, all of whom settled in this township. Betsy married Henry Bauman; John married a Miss Bauman, Jacob married a Miss Heck, David married a Miss Fry, George married Margaret Clinger, Nancy was married to John Machlin, Daniel married a Miss Stackbarger, Solomon married a Miss Stackbarger, and Samuel a Miss Smith. John Waggoner died about 1840. George Waggoner, fifth child of John and Betsy Waggoner, was born near Hagerstown, Maryland, in 1795. He came to Ohio with his parents, and, in Perry county, married Margaret dinger. Their family consisted of eleven children, four boys and
seven girls. George Waggoner makes his home at present with his son Samuel, on the farm on which he settled, and where he has lived for fifty years. Samuel Waggoner was born in Perry county, in 1827. In 185 1 he married Sarah Miller, a native of Pennsylvania. The fruit of this union is eight children living — George, Clara, Eugene, Henry, Malvina, Charles E., Harriet, and Milan D, Caroline is dead.

Mr. Waggoner is one of the most extensive farmers in the township.

John Waggoner, oldest son of John Waggoner, sr., came from Perry county and settled in Sandusky township at an early date. He married Mary Bauman, and had a large family. Daniel Waggoner, his oldest son, settled in Washington township, near Lindsey, in 1839. For his first wife he married Susan Obermoyer. They had four children, all of whom are residents of Washington township — Louisa (Loose), Joseph, John J., and Amos E. Mrs. Waggoner died June 20, 1863, aged forty-four years. Mr. Waggoner married Mrs. Elizabeth Bloker, who died September 30, 1881. She bore him one child, Mary Ellen, who now lives in this township. Mr. Waggoner died May 31, 1876, aged about sixty.

Joseph Cookson settled in the township in 1830. His son, William, married, in 1849, Rosanna Metzger, a daughter of Joseph Metzger, a native of Bedford county, Pennsylvania, who settled in Scott township about 1840. The fruit of this union was five children — David W., Mahala M. (Snyder), James W., Mary M. (Kenan), and Joseph W. Mr. Cookson died December 26, i860.

Jacob Heberling came from Perry to Sandusky county in 1831, and settled in Sandusky township, where he lived about five years and then removed to Green Creek. After remaining in that township three years he settled permanently in Washington township, where he died in 1845. Those of his children who are living are Jacob and George m Fremont, John, Washington township; and Mrs. Elizabeth Ream, Madison township. John, the fourth child, was born in Pennsylvania in 1810. He married, in 1837, Elizabeth Reed, daughter of John and Mary Reed. Fourteen children blessed this union — Harriet, deceased; Levi, Susanna, deceased; Benjamin F., George W., deceased; Thomas J., deceased; Delia A., deceased; James M.; Joel, deceased; John; Mary E.; Michael, deceased; William, and Sarah. Mr. Heberling worked at carpentry for ten years in this county. He was justice of the peace in Jackson and Washington townships, six years in all, and has been clerk of Washington township.

Daniel Spohn emigrated from Maryland to Fairfield county, Ohio. From there he removed to Perry county, and thence to Sandusky county in 1831. He settled in Washington township, where he resided until his death, in 1852. He married, in 1807, Elizabeth Bashor, and had by her a family of eleven children. Catharine H. the sixth child, was born in 1817. In 1835 she was married to Daniel Spohn, son of Henry Spohn, of Jackson township. The fruit of this union was thirteen children, only three of whom are living — Barbara (Klussman), Joel, and Lewis W. W. Mr. Spohn died in 1872. His widow continues her residence on the homestead. Daniel Spohn was in the War of 1812, and two of his grandsons, Joel and Aaron, served in the Federal army during the late war. The former was born in this county in 1839. He married, in 1864, Nancy J. Cookson, and is engaged in farming in this township.

Joseph Garn, the pioneer of the south-west corner of the township, was born in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, in 1809. He settled where he now lives in 1831. His first wife was Lydia Ickes, a daughter of Adam Ickes. He married for his second wife Sarah Andrew, a daughter of William Andrew. The fruit of both marriages was fourteen children, five by the first and nine by the last wife. Mr. Garn may be termed the pioneer United Brethren preacher of this part of the county, although he has never been an itinerant circuit rider. He has also been engaged in the grain trade at Helena.

Joseph Reed, with his wife, whose maiden name was Sarah Swinehart, both natives of Pennsylvania, came to Washington township in 1832, and resided here with his family until the end of his life. The family consisted of ten children. John, one of the enterprising farmers of Washington township, was born in Perry county in 1823, and, in 1847, he married Barbara Orndorf, a native of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania. Their children are Edwin, William H., and Charles. Mr. Reed worked at blacksmithing during his younger years.

Henry Forster came to Ohio and settled in Perry county in 1804, and about the year 1833 came to this township. He was married to Tina Walters, and had a family of seven children.

The Overmyers, or Obermoyers, as it is spelled by some of the descendants, are perhaps the most numerous family in the township. Philip Overmyer, a native of Union count), Pennsylvania, married Rosanna Bishop and removed to New York, whence the family came to Ohio in 1833, and settled in Washington township, this county. The sons numbered seven, viz: Samuel, William, Daniel, Jacob, George, Philip, and David, the last of whom settled in Fulton county, Indiana; the other six brothers settled in this county, only one of whom survives Philip. He was born in Union county in 1801, and, in 1825, married Margaret Swinefort, by whom he has a family of four children — Israel, William, Richard, and Lucinda. Mrs. Overmyer died in 1879.

Jacob Obermoyer came to this county from Cayuga county. New York, in 1833 and settled in Washington township. Mr. Obermoyer was a wagon-maker by trade, but followed farming principally. He died in 1863 in the sixty-sixth year of his age.

His wife was Catharine Anderson, a native of Pennsylvania; she died in 1874, aged seventy-two years. They had eleven children, ten of whom survive — Philip A., in Fremont; William, in Indiana; George, in Washington township; Luke, in Indiana; Sarah Ann, who died in 1879, was the wife of Hiram Waggoner, of Indiana; Agnes, who is the wife of Jacob Hoffman, and resides in Indiana; Susan, who married Michael Obermoyer, of Washington township; Mary, who married Solomon Obermoyer, and resides in the same township; Catharine, who is the wife of Coonrod Hess, Washington township; Amos, Washington township; and Amanda, who is the wife of Jacob Hess, of the same township. The family all attend the Evangelical church. Jacob Obermoyer was a well-known citizen, much respected in business and social life. His sons are all Republicans and successful farmers.

Joseph Shively, an old settler and a worthy citizen, departed this life in the latter part of the summer of 1881. He was born in Union county, Pennsylvania, in 181 2, and came to Sandusky county and settled in this township in 1834. The following year he was united in marriage to Susanna Obermoyer, daughter of George Obermoyer. They reared a family of ten children, viz: Sarah (Engler) and Elizabeth (Kramb), Washington township; Henry, Sandusky; John, Michigan; George A., Sandusky; Solomon, Washington; Franklin, Michigan; William H., Texas; James A. and Lewis W., Washington. Mr. Shively was by trade a wagon-maker.

Samuel Kratzer came to Ohio and settled in Columbiana county in 1831, where
he remained three years, then removed to York township, this county. The following year he settled in Washington township, where he died in 1861, in his sixty-third year. He married Rebecca Mussleman and had four sons and one daughter. Harriet married Solomon Waggoner, and died in Indiana; Aaron and David reside in Washington township; Henry died in Rochester, Indiana; Emanuel resides in Rochester, Indiana. The widow of Samuel Kratzer died in Indiana in 1874, aged about sixty-seven years. David, the third child, was born in Union, Pennsylvania, in 1826. In 1857 he married Margaret Welker, a native of Franklin county. Their family consists of four children living — Mary R., Sarah C., Lizzie C., and Joseph W. Two are dead — Henry F. and an infant daughter. Mr. Kratzer worked at carpentry fourteen years, but is now giving his whole attention to farming.

Henry Reiling was born in Germany in 1816. He came to America in 1838, and found employment in Portage county on the canal. He came to this county in 1842. In 1844 he married Sally Forster, by whom he had six children, of whom Tina is the only one living. Mrs. Reiling died in 1855. In 1857 he married for his second wife Catharine Noss, who gave birth to sixteen children, eleven of whom are living. Mr. Reiling has been in mercantile business in Hessville the greater part of the time since 1842. Since 1867 he has been proprietor of the mill on Mud Creek. The names of Mr. Reiling's children who are living are: Catharine, Lizzie, Henry, Eva, Mary, Delia,
Julia, John, Josephine, Helen, and Ann.

George W. Stull was born in Sandusky county in 1843. He married, in 1866, Hannah Cole, who was born in Scott township in 1844. Six children, four boys and two girls, blessed this union.

William Thraves, a native of Nottingham, England, was born in 1799. He was married in England, in 1827, to Marilla Graves, and in 1844, with the family, consisting of seven children, emigrated to America and settled in Washington township. One child was born in this county. The following were the names of the children: George, Ann, Robert, Mark, Faith E., William, Thomas, and Levi. William was killed by a railroad accident on the Isthmus of Panama. Mr. Thraves followed butchering in England for twelve years and three years in this country. He has since been farming. His present residence is in Ballville township. George, the oldest child, was born in England in 1828. He was in California from 1854 to 1857. In 1853 he married Mary J. Crowell, daughter of Samuel and Mary Crowell, of Sandusky township. Their children are: Samuel, deceased; Anna M., Mark E., Ida H., George M., and Lillie M., living. Mr. Thraves is a blacksmith by trade, but for the last twenty-four years he has been giving exclusive attention to farming in Ballville township. Mark, the fourth child of William Thraves, was born in England in 1832. He was in California ten years from 185 1, and returning, settled on a farm in Ballville township. He married Sarah Hufford in 1862, and has three children: D. C., William, and Mattie M.

John W. Bauman was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania. He married Polly Fry and settled in Wayne county, Ohio. From there he removed to Knox county, and in the year 1845 to Sandusky county and settled in this township, where he died in 1854. Five of the fifteen children are still living; one — John F. — is a resident of this township. He was born in Wayne county in 1827. In 1850 he married Harriet E. Winter, daughter of Jacob Winter, of Jackson township. Their children are Alvertie J. (Burgett), Emma E. (Doll), Sarah F., and Jerome J.

John Lantz, a native of Pennsylvania, came to Ohio and settled in Washington township in 1846, and was a resident of the township to the time of his death, in 1880. He married, in Pennsylvania, Elizabeth Dieffenbaucher. They had a family of eight children. Simon, the second child, was born in Pennsylvania, in 1830. Tn 1852 he married Mary Waggoner, daughter of John Waggoner. Their family consisted of eleven children, eight of whom are living, viz: Sarah E. (Posey), Elizabeth, Mary E. (Pohlman), Louisa M., Simon E., Nancy A., Moses F., and Charles A. Mrs. Lantz died in 1879. Mr. Lantz has served as township trustee four years, and as assessor one year. Of the family of John Lantz, five are living: Mary A. (Ward), in California, San Joaquin county; Simon, Washington township; Rosanna (Ward), Wood county; Matilda (Wolfe), Sandusky township; and Emanuel, Helena.

Henry Myers, a native of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, emigrated to Ohio in 1840, and settled in Montgomery county, where he remained until 1847, when he removed to Sandusky county and settled in this township. The family consisted of fourteen children, — ten boys and four girls. Henry, the third child, was born in Lancaster county, in 1S09. In 1832 he married Nancy Bork, daughter of James Bork. They had four children, Joseph, Sarah A., Mary E. and George H., all living except Joseph, who died in the army.

Casper Heseman emigrated from Prussia in 1847. By his wife, Mary Yeasting, a family of twelve children were born, five of whom are living. Charles F., the tenth child, was born in Germany in 1843. In 1867 he married Mary Tebbs, who died in 1871, leaving two children, Elmer F., and Emma. In 1872 Mr. Heseman married for his second wife Mary Vollman, also a native of Prussia. Sarah and Herman W. are the fruit of this union. Mr. Vollman emigrated from Prussia to Ohio in 1869, and settled in Madison township.

Since 1872 he has been living with his daughter, Mrs. Heseman, in Washington.

Benjamin Karshner, a son of Jacob Karshner, was born in Berks county, Pennsylvania, in 1810. He married Elizabeth Box, and in 1848 emigrated to this county and settled in Washington township. Their family consisted of eight children, viz: Henry, Benjamin (deceased), Catharine, Edward, Isabel, Elizabeth, William, and Newton. Margaret Box, widow of Nicholas Box, came to the township in 1837, and died in 1857. Mr. Karshner had a store in Hessville for about two years, then settled on the farm on which his son, William, now lives.

Daniel Ickes, son of Adam Ickes, was born in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, in 1816. He came to Ohio and settled in Washington township in 1848. He married, in 1840, Delila Zimmers, born in Bedford county in 1822. They raised a family of ten children, viz: Rebecca, Franklin Q., Mary C, Daniel W., George Z., Harvey J., Joseph M. Jacob F., and Naomi E. Saloma A., the seventh child, is dead.

Christian Schwartzmann was born in Germany in 1820. He married Wilhelmina Pohlman in 1844, and in 1849 emigrated to America. He first located in Madison township, but the following year removed to the farm on which he now lives. Six of their thirteen children are living, five girls and one boy, viz: Rosetta (Hornung), Washington township; Sophia (Munch), Wood county; Charles, Mary (Damschroder), Addie, and Katie, Washington township. Mr. Schwartzmann is a tailor by trade.

John Adam Bork, one of the oldest of the German residents of this township, was born in 1802. He was married in Germany to Catharine Kehler, who died in 1842; then to Catharine Helmuth, and after her death to Anna E. Banze, who emigrated with him to America, and is yet living. The family came to this country in 1850, and after stopping a short time in Erie county, settled in Washington township. The children residing in this county are Adam, Elizabeth (Streit), Lewis A., Henry, Amelia, Elizabeth, and Caroline.

Lewis Bolen was born in Perry county in 1830, and came with his family to Sandusky county at the age of four years. In 1851 he married Sarah Smith. A family of eleven children blessed this union, viz: William, Mary, John W., Harry A., Emma, Jesse, Lewis, Russell, Clarence, Fannie, and Albert. William, Jesse, and Lewis are dead.

Samuel Sweet, a native of New York emigrated to Ohio and settled in Sandusky county in 1854. His wife died in New York, leaving a family of sixteen children, eight boys and eight girls. Mr. Sweet died two years after coming to Ohio. Henry Sweet, a son of Samuel Sweet, was born in Albany county. New York, in 1812. He came to Ohio and settled in Seneca county in 1833. The following year he moved back to New York, and remained there till 1843, when he returned to Ohio and settled in Woodville township. He next removed to Fremont, where he engaged in the livery business for a period, and then settled on the farm in Washington where he now lives. He has been married twice, first to Lavina Schovil, and after her death to Mrs. Harriet Reed, widow of Samuel Reed and daughter of Matthias Benner. The fruit of this union was four children, viz: William H., Mary E., Lawrence, and Sarah J. By his first wife Mr. Sweet had three children — Emma, Ellen, and Charley. By her first husband Mrs. Sweet had one child — Edwin Reed. By trade Mr. Sweet is a shoemaker. He follows farming, and is a local preacher of the United Brethren church.

William Opperman was born in Nassau, Germany, in 1819. In 1849 he emigrated to America, and settled in Huron county. He married Ruth Purington, of Portage county, in 1852, and in 1856 they settled in Washington township. They have ten children, viz: Wilhelmina, Emma, Mary, Lydia, Charles W., Clara, William H., John, Olive, and Nellie. Mr. Opperman served in the German army seven years.

Jerome L. Loose, second child of Peter Loose, was born in 1836, in Perry county, Pennsylvania. He lived in Michigan from 1845 to 1863; then came to Sandusky county and settled in Washington township. In 1862 he married Louisa Waggoner, daughter of Daniel Waggoner. Their family consists of three children living — Ida R., Elam S., and Mary S. The youngest three — Alvin J., Franklin M., and John H. — are dead. Mr. Loose has taught school in this county about seven years.

Bryan O'Connor, son of Michael and Catharine O'Connor, was born in County Kerry, Ireland, in 1830. In 1852 he emigrated to America and settled in Fremont. In 1858 he married Margaret Keffe, and seven years later settled on a farm in Washington township, where he continues to reside. The family consists of six children, viz: Catharine, Martin, Michael, Mary, John, and Margaret. He was clerk of Washington township six years from 1868, and justice of the peace from 1877 to 1879, when he resigned. The resignation of William Sandwisch, in 1878, caused a vacancy on the board of county commissioners, which Mr. O'Connor was appointed to fill. He was elected to that office in 1879.

LEGAL ORGANIZATION.

A petition was presented to the county commissioners at their session held December 6, 1830, by A. C. Ross, praying that the originally surveyed township number five, range fourteen, be organized into a town with corporate powers and privileges. This petition was granted, and in deference to the choice of Mr. Ross, who had been most active in seeking the establishment of local government, the new township was named Washington. A more significant name would have been Perry, but the fancies of men are not always, indeed are very seldom, influenced by an appreciation of historical harmony.

The first election was held at the house of Daniel Karshner January 1, 1831. The old record containing the names of the officers elected and the first voters can not be found, but it is remembered that Josiah H. Topping was elected justice of the peace, Michael Overmyer, treasurer, and George L. Overmyer clerk, which office he held for many years.

Twelve sections were added to Washington township after the erection of Ottawa county.

In politics the township has always been Democratic.

HESSVILLE.

There are in Washington township three villages — Hessville, Helena, and Lindsey, the two last-named being good trading points. The founders of Hessville were: Henry Bowman and Levi Hess. By reference to a preceding topic it will be seen that David Hess, at an early date, entered an immense tract of land, and on this land his son Levi made a settlement. Mr. Bowman owned a tract on the opposite side of the pike, where he had a tavern.

William Haverfield opened a store in 1835, and the hamlet in the woods and swamp was named by the settlers Cashtown.

Most of the pioneers of that day were poor, and the difficulty of obtaining ready money has been frequently spoken of in preceding chapters. Bowman, to sacrifice dignity for a force of expression, was the keeper of a "barrel," and inconsequence was known by his poor neighbors as "Old Cash," and his village, "Cashtown." Judging from appearances, no one having any sense of the fitness of things can regret that upon laying out the north part of the town, Mr. Hess gave this trading point his own name.

The first physician at Hessville was Dr. Thompson, who bore a good reputation as a skilled practitioner. His successor was Dr. McVey. Dr. Philips, the only physician in the place at present, has, since locating a number of years ago, gained the confidence of the people. A few others have opened offices but did not remain long enough to merit mention in this connection.

The postmasters at Hessville, as they are remembered by old citizens, have been: David Berry, Henry Forster, Henry Reiling, Samuel Ritter, A. Lay, Jacob Arnstadt, George McVey, and Frank Arts.

There is in the village one church, built as a union meeting house in 1843, and used by the German Reformed and Lutheran congregations, and supplied by Rev. George Cronenwett. But in 1851 the Lutherans built a house of their own, three-quarters of a mile farther west, on the pike. This house, in 1877, was torn down and the finest church building in the township erected a short distance east, at an expense of $3,000. Services have been held regularly in both houses by the respective denominations. The first Lutherans were the Auxter, Tappy, Schwartzmann, Pohlman, and Upp families. The first members of the Reformed congregation were Henry Bowman, B. Karshner, S. Kratzel, William Keiser, William Opperman, the Kline family and a few others.

Hessville is a hamlet of about thirty houses and would be easily recognized by settlers who left the county thirty years ago. The mill and distillery, owned and operated by Henry Reiling, remains to be spoken of. The mill was built by B. Bowman. It was purchased by Mr. Reiling in 1867, who, in 1871, fitted up a complete apparatus for distilling spirituous liquors, with rectifiers and warehouse. The annual product is about one hundred barrels. Previous to 1875 the business was run on a more extensive scale.

HELENA.

This village is partly in Jackson township. During the building of the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chicago railroad, Toledo branch, the conditions seemed favorable to the growth of a town. In the midst of an excellent grain producing territory, and ten miles from any other market, its location is most favorable. The first lots were surveyed in September, 1871, by Joseph Garn. In November, following, John Ickes laid out the first addition. Isaac Garn afterwards laid out an addition in Washington, and Jonathan Wagner in
Jackson township.

Isaac Garn was the first commissioned postmaster. He was succeeded by James Donald.

Irvine Mitchell was the first merchant. He was succeeded by B. F. Moore, and he in turn by the Fausey Bros., who suspended in 1877. Marvin & Dodge opened a store in 1875, which was afterwards removed to Gibsonburg. Frederick Rutchow opened a store in 1876, now owned by Rutchow & Co. Garn & Mitchell, proprietors of the only other store, began business in 1880. L. B. Her opened the first drug store, which is now owned by W. H. Spade. Joseph Garn began the grain trade as soon as the railroad offered shipping facilities. Rutchow & Co., and Garn & Mitchell, are the present dealers.

There are in Helena two churches, one German Reformed, and one United Brethren. The first United Brethren class was collected soon after the first settlement of the township, and held prayer and preaching service in private houses, most frequently at Joseph Garn's. The first members were Joseph Garn and wife, William Boor and wife, John and Rebecca Donald, and David Vernon. The first meeting-house was built in 1843. A new house was built at the same place, now in the town of Helena, in 1865. John Dorcas was the first circuit preacher, Michael Long the second.

The German Reformed Church was built in Helena in 1873. The old house stood a mile further north and was built about 1855, but has been removed.

Both congregations have Sunday-schools and are in flourishing condition.

Helena is proud of her lodge of Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and if individual interest in the affairs of a society are evidences of its prosperity and the practical benefits furnished, the Helena lodge deserves a higher place among the sister lodges of the county than its priority would indicate. The charter of Helena Lodge, No. S92, was issued May 16, 1874, and it was instituted by Special Deputy J. W. Ritchie, July 28, 1874, with the following members: J. C. Tompson, L M. Garn, W. H. K. Gossard, Irvine Mitchell, A. H. Tice, G. P. Cornelius, B. E. Bartlett, J. W. Barnes, J. W. Marvin, S. R. Heberling, P. J. Gossard, S. Andrew, and P. D. Stephenson. The present membership is ninety-six. This lodge has given to Gibsonburg lodge seventeen members: to Bradney thirteen; and to Bettsville three. Two thousand dollars had accumulated in the treasury, which fund is now (1881) being drawn on for the construction of a hall. Dr. Thompson was the first noble grand.

Tompson Encampment, No. 209, was instituted July 25, 1876, with J. C. Tompson, I. M. Garn, G. P. Cornelius, J. W. Marvin, James M. Jones, Charles B. Inman, A. H. Tice, Henry W. King, and Morris Reese, charter members. A characteristic of the Helena Odd Fellows is their punctual attendance at meetings. There are not often many vacant chairs.

LINDSEY.

This village in appearance bears more evidence of thrift than either of the other two. It is located on the Lake Shore railroad, nine miles west of Fremont, and is a good market for grain and other agricultural products. The incipient steps toward founding a town were taken by Charles Loose, who erected a grain elevator and began the grain trade. The following year he erected a store and dwelling house. The first lots were surveyed March 23, 1868, by C. A. Monk and Isaiah Overmyer. Isaiah Overmyer laid out an addition south of the railroad December 20, 1868.

There is in Lindsey one church, the Evangelical, built in 1869. The first members were Rev. C. A. Monk, Rev. D. Strawman, W. M. Boyer, J. J. Walder, Josiah Overmyer, with their families, and perhaps a few others. It was a branch of the church north of Lindsey, which was the first house of worship in that part of the township. Services have been entirely discontinued in this house, the class being divided between Lindsey and the North Rice church.

The Lindsey saw-mill was built by W. M. Boyer & Co., and is now owned by Davis & Beery. J. Wolfe owns the business established by Charles Loose. The store now owned by Overmyer & Brother was established by W. M. Boyer. Brenaman & Monk's store was opened by J. V. Beery, and has passed through several changes of proprietorship. The Lindsey House, now owned by Mr. Kreilich, was built by H. J. Kramb in 1869. The National House, a capacious hotel building for a small town, was erected in 1872, by J. Burger, and is now owned by H. M. Nichols, of New York; E. S. Bowersox, proprietor.

Lindsey has been set apart a special school district, and has a graded school with two rooms.

The station was at first named Washington, but after the survey of lots the name was changed. William Overmyer was first postmaster, the office being at his house. "Loose" was at that time the name of the post office. Its style was changed to Lindsey to accord with the new name of the station, in 1868, since which time W. M. Boyer has been postmaster.

A. J. Monk began practicing medicine in Lindsey in 1868. He remained about three years, and was followed by Dr. Sailer, whose residence was short. The present physicians, in the order of their placing themselves before the people, are W. H. H. Wolland, Dr. Shipley, and Dr. W. H. Lane.

Lindsey Lodge, No. 668, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, was instituted June 27, 1877. The charter members were Joel Burkett, Andrew Weis, J. J. Walters, E. W. Hubbard, Jacob Widener, Andrew Widener, John Widener, W. S. Stevens, Nathan Cochran, F. J. Weis, William Wiseman, Zachariah Clay, and P. H. Overmyer. The lodge has a membership, at present, of fifty-two. The past noble grands, in their order, are J. J. Walters, Joel Burkett, W. C. Wiseman, W. S. Stevens, E. W. Hubbard, Andrew Weis, A. E. Waggoner, William Boyer, and B. F. Overmyer.

SCHOOLS.

The first school-house in Washington was built about 1822, north of the pike on the old Hettrick farm. The citizens were called together about 1833, and after a day of hard work the house was ready for school. It was of typical pioneer fashion, built up of round logs, covered with long shingles weighted down with poles, and having a floor of split puncheons, hewn on one side and notched in on the other, where they rested on the sleepers so as to make the surface even. It may be remarked in this connection that some of the woodsmen of that early day attained remarkable accuracy of stroke with the axe. Some of them could dress a puncheon as smooth as a shingle. The windows were the most unique feature of these early school-houses. A piece was sawn out of one log near the middle of each side; a frame was fitted into the hole and splinters wedged in diagonally, nails being very scarce and expensive. Over this opening a sheet of white paper, previously greased, was stretched and fastened. There were plenty of air holes to supply ventilation.

The first school-teacher was Narcissa Topping. From those who were benefited by her instructions we learn that she was a popular teacher.

The first school-house in the southwest corner stood on the farm improved by Jacob Moses, and was built about 1834.

RELIGIOUS WORSHIP.

It cannot be determined satisfactorily where in the township the first religious service was held or who the first preacher was. United Brethren circuit riders travelled the Black Swamp region as soon as any one could be found to preach to, and that church was the first to form an organized class. The Evangelical and Methodist churches also sent their missionaries into the woods, and as a result of all these evangelical labors a sense of the importance of maintaining religious worship was impressed upon the people.

There are in the township nine churches representing six denominations — German Reformed, Methodist Episcopal, United Brethren, Lutheran, Dunkard, and Evangelical. We have previously mentioned those located in the villages.

Wilson Union class. United Brethren, was formed of residents of Sandusky and Washington townships about 1850, and a meeting-house was built at the township line, between Washington and Sandusky. The leading members were David Bowlus, Rev. Joshua Hatfield, Jacob Dezelen , and Rev. Wesley Harrington. The congregation gradually grew smaller in consequence of the old members dying and moving away, and no new ones being added. In 1857 Mrs. Samuel Skinner and daughter were the only regular members. That year George W. Steward was appointed to the circuit, and held a protracted meeting at Wilson's meeting-house, which resulted in twenty accessions. Since that time the church has had a solid footing. A new brick meetinghouse was built in 1876, opposite the old building, in this township.

The first members of the Evangelical church in the south part of this township were: Michael Walter, John Walter, and Joseph Wingard. Services were held at private houses until about 1859, when the brick house, still used for public services, was erected. Rev. D Kerns has been performing the offices of local preacher for more than twenty years. He was an itinerant ten years. The membership is gradually growing smaller, not numbering at present more than ten.

The founder of Methodism in this township was Israel Smith, who was one of the early settlers and a working member of the church. He collected a small class, composed of the following individuals: Israel Smith and wife, William Black and wife, Mrs. Russell Smith, John Lash and wife, Mr. Green and wife, and Andrew Miller and wife. Mrs. Black and Israel Smith are the only original members living in the county. The first meeting-house was built of stone, and known as Washington Stone Chapel. In 1858 a new house was built further west, and the stone church allowed to go down. The present membership at Washington chapel is about forty. M. D. Love is entitled to special mention for his labors as pastor in 1858.

A society of Dunkards or German Baptists built a meeting-house north of the pike, on the Noah Hendrick farm, in 1873. Samuel Fink is principal exhorter. Other prominent members are: Jonas Engler, Noah Hendrick, Mrs. Hettrick, Aaron Mowry, Samuel Mowry, John Hendrick, and Solomon Snyder.



Biographical Sketch.


SAMUEL SKINNER. 776-779

The first settler of Washington township — Josiah Topping — located on the pike in 1826. He was followed by David Grant, then John Wolcutt, and, fourth, in the spring of 1831, came George Skinner with his family.

George Skinner and his wife, whose maiden name way Mary Goodin, were natives of Somerset county, Pennsylvania. They removed to Perry county, Ohio, at an early period of the settlement of that county, and accumulated property which was well improved when the Black Swamp became a much talked of land of promise. Mr. Skinner's desire to give his children, fast growing to maturity, a start in life, led him to sell his farm in Perry county and enter land here. His original purchase was larger than that of any man in the township with one exception.

In April, 1830, the party, consisting of George Skinner and wife, and eight of their children, three of whom were married, arrived in Lower Sandusky. A short time after they penetrated the swamp and made a settlement in the southeast part of Washington township. The Skinner family consisted of twelve children, three of whom died in Perry county before the family's settlement in this county — Elizabeth, Fanny, and Jane. David, the second child, settled in Morrow county. Those who came to Sandusky were: Rhoda, wife of William Black, settled in Washington township, where her husband died, and she is yet living, being a woman well known for her kindness of heart and neighborly assistance in every time of need; Rebecca, accompanied by her husband, Samuel Black, settled in Washington township, where he died, she now living with her children in Illinois; John, accompanied by his family, settled in Washington township and subsequently removed to Livingston county, Michigan; Samuel, the subject of this biography, came a single man; George married, in Seneca county, Elizabeth Kimes, settled first in Seneca county, then in Washington township, and subsequently removed to Williams county, where he is now living; Aaron, after the immigration of his family, returned to Perry county, where he married, and then settled in Washington township, and has since removed to Illinois; Nathan married, in Washington township, Sophia Dayhoof, settled in Washington, and subsequently removed to Cass county, Michigan, where he now lives; Mary Ann married, in Washington township, John Walters, and died in Tiffin, Ohio.

It was not for Mrs. Skinner long to bear the toils of pioneer life. She died in Washington township September 24, 1831, about eighteen months after leaving the old home in Perry county. George Skinner died September 25, 1838, aged fifty-seven years and three months. He had abandoned the comforts of a well improved home with a view to providing homes for his children. He came to a country which nature had favored with richness, but a full generation's labor was needed to make it an inviting dwelling place. He lived to see a part of his large tract improved. He lived to see a cabin on almost every section and quarter-section in his township. This was the beginning of that transformation which half a century has effected.

Samuel Skinner, whose portrait appears in this volume, is one of the few men who has seen that transformation from beginning to end, and, at the same time, has been an active agent in effecting it. He was born in Perry county, Ohio, May 10, 1814, and was consequently about sixteen years old when the family came to this county. His education was such as the primitive schools of his native county afforded. Accustomed to hard work, he was well calculated by physical strength for the life which lay before him. He married in Washington township, October 17, 1833, Elizabeth Geeseman, who was born in Pennsylvania, in 1812. Her father, George Geeseman, removed to Perry county, Ohio, and from there to Washington township, Sandusky county, in 1831. When Mr. Skinner was married, to obtain a start in life was not an easy matter. He was unable to provide for the necessities of life without performing day labor for his neighbors. Agricultural productions could not be exchanged for money, and the wages of a day laborer look very small in this period of plenty. But these obstacles of early life finally yielded to the continuous hard licks of the pioneers, and eventual success and financial prosperity rewarded hardships endured. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Skinner is somewhat remarkable. There were ten children, one boy and nine girls, all of whom are living, all married, and all in promising circumstances. Their names and places of residence are as follows: George W. was born July 25,1834. He married Theresa Fox, and is living on the old homestead farm, in Washington township. Mary was born December 7, 1835. She was married to Jacob Rearick, and resides in Henry county, Ohio. Sarah was born May 1, 1837. She was married to George Rearick, residing in Sandusky township, this county. Cynthia was born January 4, 1841. She is married to David Burgoon, residing in Sandusky township, this county. Eliza Ann, wife of Edward Choate, residing in Monroe county, Michigan, was born May 25, 1843. Margaret E., was married to Eli Hansberger, of Monroe county, Michigan. She was born October 3, 1844. Laura M., wife of Frederick Zorn, lives in Poweshiek county, Iowa. She was born April 4, 1847. Harriet M. was born October 30, 1849. She is the wife of Lewis Zorn, of Madison township. Jane E. was born September 7, 1851. She is married to Peter Cornelius, and lives at Helena, Jackson township. Emma N., the youngest child, was born August 20, 1853. She is the wife of Jacob Hendricks, of Henry county, Ohio.

Mrs. Skinner died March 8, 1869.

Mr. Skinner married for his second wife, in April, 1870, Mrs. Sarah Guyer, daughter of George M. Gunter, who settled in Wood county in 1824.

There is enough of danger connected with a bear hunt to give it a peculiar interest. Mr. Skinner was the discoverer of the track, and one of a party to pursue the last bear, so far as is known, to enter the marshes of Sandusky county. In the winter of 1834 Mr. Skinner discovered, one afternoon, the track of a large bear. The animal at that period was rare in this part of the State, and his track promised a fine day's sport. During the night a light snow fell, which obscured the former track, but the following day a couple of
young men of the neighborhood, while returning from an errand to Jackson township, on Muskallonge, saw the track in the snow. The discovery was reported, dogs collected, and on the following morning, at four o'clock, a party of four, consisting of Samuel Skinner, Robert McCulloch, Samuel Geeseman, and James Fisher, with their pack of dogs and well charged guns, were on the track. Patiently step after step was followed by the light of the moon. Daylight came, and the dogs, as the track became fresher, were more anxious and pushed ahead. About noon they bounded forward with fierce barks, and the sound soon came from far away in the thicket. The party hurried in eager pursuit of the pack, for the barking and shrill howls of the dogs, just audible, clearly indicated the progress of a battle. After the pursuit had continued for some time, Mr. Skinner, who was far in advance of his comrades, met two of the battle-scarred dogs returning from the fray. One had been severely wounded, the other considerably scratched. Suddenly the character of the barking changed from sharp yelps and long-drawn howls, which hunters recognize as the rapid advances and retreats of determined fighting, to the continuous noise of the chase. When the party came to the place of encounter, under a large tree, the snow tracks clearly indicated what had happened. The pack had overtaken their game at that place, and he backed himself against the tree, thus being securely fortified in the rear and prepared to give battle with both paws. The condition of the dogs and blood on the ground showed bruin's victory, and as the pack returned one by one from their futile pursuit, the failure of the chase was apparent. The party returned to Miller's tavern, near Woodville. The host was boastful of his dogs, and anxious to give them a trial. He offered to keep the party over night, but Messrs. Skinner and McCulloch returned to their homes. The next day's chase was more unsuccessful than the first. But a week later a bear, supposed to be the same one, was killed near Findlay, Hancock county.

Mr. Skinner retired from the farm in 1871, and has since been living in Fremont. He is a large, good-natured, full-hearted gentleman, on whom time and hard labor have had little effect. As remarked before, he has seen the growth of his township, and contributed his strong physical energies toward that growth. In reply to the question, "Do you feel repaid for your labor, and the hardships which nature and the times imposed upon the early pioneers of the Black Swamp?" he replied: "I would not like to say that I have not been repaid, but if I was again a young man, and could foresee the course of life I have followed, I would not sacrifice society and improvement for what I have accumulated." When we remember that Mr. Skinner is among the most successful of the pioneers of this part of the county, and has certainly been peculiarly fortunate in respect to health, his remark has a deep meaning. If those of the early immigrants who became wealthy do not feel repaid for their toil, what sorrow and suffering must have prevailed among the multitude less fortunate!

But if pecuniary gain has not been sufficient reward, Mr. Skinner and other pioneers of his class can look back over the busy and clouded past with a consciousness of having added to the world's wealth, of having completed nature's work and conferred an appreciated boon upon their descendants and humanity. No feeling of self-approbation is stronger in an old man than the sense of having been useful. The life of such commands our admiration, and the memory of such is worthy of preservation.



761-779

Source:  History of Sandusky County, Ohio with Portraits and Biographies of Prominent Citizens and Pioneers, by H. Z. Williams & Bro., Homer Everett, (c) 1882, pp. 761-779