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Summit County, Ohio

History & Genealogy

Biographies


Source:
History of Summit County,
with an outline sketch of Ohio
Edited by William Henry Perrin.
Illustrated.
Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers,
186 Dearborn Street
1881

A B C D E F G H I J K L M
N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

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Copley Twp. -
JAMES HAMMOND, retired farmer; P. O. Copley Center; is a native of Yorkshire, England, and was born Apr. 6, 1811; he is a son of Thomas and Ann (Barton) Hammond, who were parents of the following family: Mary, George, Joseph, John, Edward, Elizabeth, James, Thomas and Charles; James remained in England, working at different employments, until 1848, when he arrived in New York June 20.  He was married June 30, 1838, to Elizabeth, daughter of James and Nancy Spensley, and by her had the following family: Anna, born Apr. 1, 1839; Spensley, born Apr. 10, 1841; George, born Oct. 18, 1843; James E., born Aug. 20, 1846, born in England; and William A., born July 4, 1849; Lizzie, born Dec. 5, 1854; Joseph E., born Mar. 14, 1851, died in infancy; Frank P., born Apr. 15, 1857; Charles, born Sept. 27, 1860; and Alice D., born Feb. 21, 1864, born in America.  At the time of his arrival, Mr. Hammond had $26; he and family came to Medina Co., where they remained one year, and from there went to Akron; on his arrival in Copley Township, Summit Co., Ohio, he purchased a small farm that is now owned by William Wagoner, and remained there five years; he then purchased a larger farm in the southern part of the township, and has by degrees made himself independent; he started in the United States with scarcely anything, but by degrees, economy and close attention to business, he has purchased and paid for a fine farm of 332 acres.  In the politics of this townships Mr. Hammond has figured quite prominently, having identified himself with the Republican party.  He is one of Copley's best and most respected citizens, and in the hearts of his fellow-townsmen has a warm place.
History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio - Edited by William Henry Perrin. - Illustrated. - Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 - Page 1033
Bath Twp. -
CHARLES H. HARRIS, Buckeye.  Thomas N. Harris, father of this gentleman, was born in Beaver Co., Penn., Oct. 30, 1804.  His father, Warren Harris, was a native of the "Old Dominion," and moved to Wayne Co., Ohio, in 1812.  Thomas N. was married in Wayne Co., in 1828, to Miss Eliza Peach.  She was born in Frederick Co., Va., Aug. 9, 1808, and is the daughter of Jacob Peach, a native of Virginia, from which State to Pennsylvania he removed with his family in 1809, and two years later, he came to what is now Jackson Township, Stark Co., Ohio.  He came to Summit Co. in 1830, and settled in Bath Township, where he passed the remainder of his days.  He was twice married, and was the parent of twenty-children.  In Thomas N. Harris' family were six sons and six daughters, viz., Rachel A., William, Minerva, Louisa, Jacob P., Charles H., John S. Smith and five are now leaving.  On the breaking -out of the rebellion, William, John S., Lewis H. and George D. entered their country's service.  Lewis H. was killed at the battle of Winchester, Va.  George D., after being captured, and suffering untold privations in Southern prisons, was paroled, and took passage for home on the ill-fated Sultana.  How or in what manner he met his death was never known.  The other two boys lived to return home.  Mr. and Mrs. Harris have been residents of Bath Township since 1832.  They have a nice hoe, and have the respect and esteem of all who know them.  Charles H. Harris was born in this county Feb. 27, 1838.  He received a good common-school education, and, when 13 years of age, went to live with Jacob Peach, his grandfather.  After reaching his majority, he worked two years for his grandfather, and then rented the farm of him.  He has ever since remained upon the farm, and, after the death of his grandfather, he purchased the place of the heirs.  He was united in marriage to Miss Caroline Harris July 14, 1860.  She was born in Stark Co., Ohio, Nov. 7, 1840.  This lady died Feb. 26, 1873.  By this marriage there were four children, viz., Frank E., George R., Eber W. and Eleanor.  Mr. Harris was married to Miss Lucinda Sprankle Jan. 22, 18874.  She was born in Stark Co., Ohio, Dec. 18, 1836.  Mr. Harris owns 106 acres of well-improved land, which he has obtained for the most part by his own endeavors.  HE is a Republican, a member of the Evangelical Association, and an enterprising public-spirited citizen.
History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio - Edited by William Henry Perrin. - Illustrated. - Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 - Page 1016
Copley Twp. -
V. G. HARRIS, farmer; P. O. Copley Center; was born in Wayne Co., Ohio, Feb. 7, 1826; is one in the following family born to Aaron and Eleanor (White) Harris; Francis M., Elizabeth M., Hamilton, Vincent G., William W., Cordelia, Ellen and Caroline.  The subject of this biography remained with his parents until he was 23 years of age.  In September, 1849, he was united in marriage with Martha Long, daughter of Jacob Long, and to this union was born a family of nine children, as follows:  Rebecca B., born June 20, 1850; Mary, Sept. 28, 1851; Joseph J., Feb. 18, 1853; John, Feb. 15, 1855, died in infancy; Elizabeth, born Feb. 10, 1856; Eliza, May 28, 1857; Charles F., June 12, 1859; Sarah, Dec. 26, 1852, and Andrew J., Feb. 24, 1865.  Mr. Harris started in life with little to depend on but his own exertions.  He came to Copley Township in 1850, purchasing 50 acres of land.  He advanced on his farm first $450, with a balance of $750 to pay.  Since that time he has added by degrees, until he now owns a fine farm of 200 acres of well-improved land, besides other property.  Mr. Harris is one of the leading men of his township, and is well respected by all his acquaintances.
History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio - Edited by William Henry Perrin. - Illustrated. - Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 - Page 1033
Bath Twp. -
ABRAHAM HARSHEY, Ghent.  This gentleman was born in Wayne Co., Ohio.  Oct. 18, 1843.  He is the son of Jacob and Sarah (Beltz) Harshey (see biography of John Harshey).  Abraham was raised upon a farm, receiving but a common-school education.  He was united in marriage to Miss Mary Baughman, Feb. 23, 1864.  This lady was born in Wayne Co., Ohio, Feb. 10, 1844.  Her parents were from the "Keystone" State, and settled in the township in Wayne Co., Ohio, which bears their name, in a very early day.  In Mr. Harshey's family are two children, viz., John C. and Jessie M.  Since his marriage, Mr. Harshey has followed farming, milling and cheese-making, in all of which he has been quite successful.  Although his early education was quite limited, he has, since reaching his majority, surrounded himself with useful and standard books and papers, and by the careful study of them has acquired quite a store of useful knowledge, which we find him daily putting into practice.   Mr. Harshey is a stanch Republican in politics, though liberal in his views regarding religion and men.  He has held offices of honor and trust in Bath Township, where he is well and favorably known.  He owns 145 acres of land, upon which are good, substantial farm buildings.  Summit Co. would be much better off had it more such young men as Abraham Harshey.
History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio - Edited by William Henry Perrin. - Illustrated. - Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 - Page 1016
Bath Twp. -
JOHN HARSHEY, Ghent.  The father of this gentleman, Jacob Harshey, was born in Lebanon Co., Penn., July 12, 1812.  His wife, Sarah Beltz, was born in the same county Dec. 25, 1812.  They were married in their native State in 1803, and, two years later, removed to Wayne Co., Ohio, where they resided until 1849, when they came to Bath Township, this county, where they have since resided.  They were the parents of the following family of children, viz.:  John, Jacob, Abraham, Henry and SarahJacob and Henry are now dead, the others are married and reside in Bath Township.  Both are Harsheys and Beltzes were originally  from Switzerland, and their coming to America dates back to Colonial times.  Jacob Harshey's father was a soldier of the war of 1812, and his grandfather of the war of the Revolution.  Jacob Harshey is one of the wealthiest farmers in the county.  He began as a poor boy, and is a self-made man in the fullest sense of the term.  He owns 536 acres of good land at the present time.  He has given liberally to his children and to religious and educational enterprises.  His eldest son, John, was born in Lebanon Co., Penn., Feb. 2, 1834; he passed his youth and early manhood assisting his father upon the farm.  On the 6th of October, 1856, he was united in marriage to Miss Lydia Rice.  This lady was born in Fayette Co.,. Penn., Feb. 22, 1836.  They are the parents of five children, viz., Emma A., Sarah F., George W. and Otis R., living; Leroy, who died in infancy.  Mr. Harshey owns 345 acres of land, upon which are good substantial farm buildings; he raises good stock of all kinds, and is one of the leading and successful agriculturists of the county.  He has held a number of positions of honor and trust in Bath Township.  Is a Republican in politics, and a consistent member of the United Brethren Church.
History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio - Edited by William Henry Perrin. - Illustrated. - Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 - Page 1017
Coventry Twp. -
MATHIAS HARTER

History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio - Edited by William Henry Perrin. - Illustrated. - Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 - Page 882

Bath Twp. -
EDWARD HELLER; P. O. Ghent; was born in Northampton Co., Penn., May 23, 1826.  He is the son of Abraham and Elizabeth (Evenrider) Heller, the former a native of Bucks Co., Penn., and the latter of Lehigh Co.  the father was a miller by trade, a frugal, industrious man, who had the respect and confidence of seven children, five of whom are yet living; he died in 1852.  His wife survives him, at an advanced age, and is a resident of the Quaker City.  Edward Heller received a common school education, his youth and and early manhood being passed upon his father's farm and in the mill.  He was united in marriage to Miss Julia A. Dutt, in 1851.  This lady was born in Northampton Co., Penn., in 1827.  From this union four children were born, viz., Quintus A., Benjamin F., Amanda E. and Emma D.  Mr. Heller remained in his native State until 1852; he then came to this county, and purchased a farm in Copley Township, upon which he resided until 1870, when he sold out and came to Bath Township, and purchased the Ghent Mills.  This is a large, three story steam and water grist and saw-mill, and is the largest and best in the western part of the county.  Mr. Heller also owns a grist-mill, one-half mile east of Ghent, and 21 acres of good land in the township.  He is a Republican, and a member of the Evangelical Association.  He is an upright business man, a consistent Christian gentleman, and has the respect and confidence of the entire community.
History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio - Edited by William Henry Perrin. - Illustrated. - Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 - Page 1017
Springfield Twp. -
GEORGE W. HART, farmer; P. O. Middlebury; is the son of John and Sarah (Dunbar) Hart, who were natives of Pennsylvania, where they were engaged in farming.  In 1819, they came to Springfield and settled on a farm. In 1889, they bought and settled on the farm now owned by George, where they lived until their death.  The father was a soldier of the war of 1812, and died at the ripe age of 82; and the mother, at the age of 66.  The subject was born on his father's farm in Springfield, March 17, 1833, and is the youngest of a family of seven children.  His younger days were spent on the farm and attending school.  In 1864, he enlisted in Co. H, 4th Battalion O. V. I., and served 100 days.  On Nov. 23, 1856, he was married to Rebecca Myers, daughter of John D. Myers. There were three children, as follows: Arilda J., wife of Oren Swinehart; Ira L. and Luther E.  Mr. Hart's grandfather was a soldier under La Fayette, serving seven years.
History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio - Edited by William Henry Perrin. - Illustrated. - Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 - Page 913
Stow Twp. -
GEORGE W. HART.  Col. John C. Hart, the father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Cornwall, Litchfield Co., Conn., April 17, 1798.  He was a son of Rufus Hart, who was born in Goshen, Conn., in 1771, and Esther Cotter to whom he was married in 1795.  In 1802, Rufus Hart and family moved from Connecticut to Genesee Co., N. Y., when he again moved to Ohio. In the war of 1812, Mr. Hart served in the capacity of Lieutenant in a company commanded by Capt. Mallison.  He was an active participant in the battles of Chippewa, Lundy's Lane and at the burning of Buffalo.  When between 14 and 15 years of age, John C. Hart enlisted in a cavalry company company commanded by Capt. Stone, and was with his father at Newark, Ft. George and other contested points.  On their evacuation of Ft. George, they suffered incredible hardships, their tents and clothing being such as were brought from their homes.  Here young Hart learned a lesson of enduring hardships that he retained through after life. After the close of the war, he and his father returned to Genesee Co., where they remained but a short time, and in May, 1815, they removed to Ohio, locating at Middlebury, now the Sixth Ward of Akron.  There were then but three or four log cabin in what is now that city, and the surrounding country was an almost unbroken forest.  When 21 years of age, John C. left home for the South in search of employment.  He traveled on foot to Steubenville, where he got on board a lumber raft and floated down the Ohio River until the raft lodged on an island, he then made his way on foot to Cincinnati.  From this point he went to St. Louis, where he engaged to work in a mill for a man living near the city.  After about two months at this business, he left and went to a small town called Milton, where he engaged in the manufacture of brick, but was soon after taken ill with fever and ague, and the following June returned home.  He then purchased 50 acres of land just south of Middlebury, on which he soon erected a house and barn. Feb. 24, 1831, he was united in marriage with Mrs. Margaret A. Sterling, and to this union were born George W., John S., Charles S., Hiram J., Elizabeth and Fanny A.  All of these are living except Hiram and ElizabethHiram served his country faithfully in the war of secession, and died from diseases contracted while in the service.  The father, John C., was naturally of a military turn of mind, which only required opportunity for development.  When advanced in life, he raised a regiment of cavalry of which he was elected Colonel. Mr. Hart died Aug. 20, 1880.  Of his children that are yet living, John S. married Zilpha Tinker, of Peoria, Ill., but that lady has since died.  Chas. S. married Mrs. Molly Ferney, and lives in Middlebury. Fanny is the wife of Clinton Ruggles, and resides in Akron.  George W. was born in Middlebury, July 12, 1832, and in youth received the advantages of the common schools of his native village.  He was married Aug. 18, 1853, to Miss Anna H. Beardsley, daughter of Talmon and Temperance (Spicer) BeardsleyTalmon Beardsley was born in Delhi, Delaware Co., N. Y., Dec. 15, 1799.  He removed with his fathers family to Licking Co., Ohio, in 1810, and from there came to Middlebury in 1818.  He has since purchased and sold a farm in Springfield Township, and also a farm in Coventry Township, at the latter place living about thirty years.  In 1831, he married Temperance Spicer, daughter of Maj. Miner Spicer, who was one of Middlebury's earliest pioneers.  To this union were born seven children, of whom the living ones are Mills H., Avery S., Anna H., Hattie D. and Louisa J. Mills married Prudence Spicer, and is a resident of Ogden Junction, Utah. Avery married Amanda Hart, and lives in Akron.  Hattie is the wife of Gates Babcock, and they are residents of Akron.  Louisa married George Stover, and lives in Stark Co., Ohio.  The two deceased are Emily A. and Avery T. The children of George W. Hart, the subject of this sketch, and his wife, are Freddie, born July 1, 1855, died Sept. 26, 1855; Lizzie, born April 22, 1857, died April 29, 1862; Emily F., born Jan. 13, 1859; Georgie Anna, born Dec. 1, 1861, died Dec. 28, 1873; Clarissie A., born July 25, 1865, and Maggie, born May 5, 1871, died Aug. 16, 1871.  Mrs. Hart was born in Middlebury, July 18, 1832. The death of Georgie Anna was accidental, caused by the kick of a horse.  She was driving a team of horses for her father while he was loading the sled with corn. In some way she slipped from the load, and fell beneath one of the horses feet.  The animal became frightened and commenced to kick, one foot striking her face disfiguring it frightfully, one of the corks penetrating the skull.  She was sensible when taken up and continued so until the next Sunday, when life became extinct, and the spirit of Georgie Hart forsook its clay tenement and returned to God who gave it.  She was a bright, winsome child, the pride of her friends and playmates. Of an active and cheerful disposition, she was always willing and ready to assist in whatever was required of her.  Her faith was firmly fixed in God. After the accident, she asked her mother if she thought she would die; she was told that they did not know, but were fearful she would.  She answered that she was willing, and seemed not to fear death to the last.  Her untimely fate was a sad blow to her parents, and the deplorable accident cast a gloom over the entire community.  Mr. and Mrs. Hart have been singularly unfortunate.  Of a family of six children, only two are now living.  Ever since their marriage, they have lived on their place in Stow Township.  The farm consists of 150 acres of well improved land.  Mr. Hart is a stanch Republican in politics, and he and wife are members of the Episcopal Church.  There is no family better known, or more highly esteemed than that of George W. Hart.
Source: History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio Edited by William Henry Perrin. Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 ~ Page 868
Portage Twp. -
CHAUNCEY HART
, deceased. This pioneer was born in Oneida Co., N. Y., Sept. 10, 1797; son of Reuben Hart, who was a native of Connecticut.  Chauncey moved to Tallmadge in 1816.  Oct. 10, 1819, he married Rosella Hard, who was born in 1798. in Berkshire, in North Vermont.  She was a daughter of Abram and Rebecca (Flagg) Hard, whose children were Cyrus, Abram, Nelson, Moses K., Orilla, Sophia, Rosella, Laura and Julia A.  In 1821, Mr. Hart moved to Wadsworth, Medina Co., where he purchased some unimproved land, which he improved.  In 1853, he located in Akron, where he lived several years; then he located on his farm, where he died, March 20, 1877.  His wife died the year following, March 26. To them were born four children; but two are now living, Mrs. Cunningham and Mrs. Beardsley.  For more than one-half a century, he was a member of the M. E. Church.  From that time forward he never wavered from his course, but attested the genuineness of his profession by an upright and blameless life.  For the last seven years, he was an invalid, and suffered greatly, yet through all his affliction he waited with Christian resignation for his Master's call, and was ready to pass over to the shining shore.  His remains now rest in the cemetery, near by his last home.  Amanda, his youngest daughter, was born in October, 1840, in Wadsworth. Oct. 17, 1861, she married Avery S. Beardsley, who was born in Coventry, this county, Oct. 26, 1838, son of T. and Temperance (Spicer) Beardsley.  Mr. and Mrs. Beardsley have one son, Chauncey Hart; they reside on the homestead farm.
Source: History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio Edited by William Henry Perrin. Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 ~ Page 815
Richfield Twp. -
HIRAM HART
, farmer , P. O. West Richfield; was born in Windham Co., Vt., in 1833; his early life was passed in his native State, where, up to the age of 19, he worked at farming, and for one year worked in a store; he then went south, remaining one year, and, in the spring of 1855, removed to Ohio, locating in Richfield Township and purchasing the farm where he now resides; he has 174 acres of land, located about two miles south of Richfield Center, and where he follows the occupation of general farming.  Mr. Hart was married, in the fall of 1854, to Miss Jeannette L. Stearns.  She was also a native of Vermont, and died in Richfield, leaving two children—Elmer S. and Emma E.  He was married to a second wife. Miss Arlette A. Clark; she is a daughter of Park B. and Nancy Clark, early settlers of Twinsburg; she was born there in 1838.  They have five children—Arthur C, Dana H., Roy K., Carroll P. and Gratia C.  Mr. Hart has served the township as Trustee, and has always taken an interest in educational affairs.  He is at present serving as a County Commissioner, having been elected in 1879.
Source: History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio Edited by William Henry Perrin. Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 ~ Page 1002
HIRAM HART, retired, Akron; was born in Batavia, Genesee Co., N. Y., June 19, 1804, and is the fourth child in a family of seven children born to Rufus and Esther (Cotter) Hart, who were natives of Goshen, Conn.  They were married in that State, and moved to New York about the year 1798, where they farmed until 1815, when he moved to Ohio.  Two of his sons had come out the preceding spring.  He settled on 100 acres of land in what is now Coventry Township, which he had bought before coming to the State, and which had been partly improved by a man named John Collins.  Mr. Hart lived in this vicinity until his death, which occurred in 1840, his wife's death also occurring about that time.  Hiram Hart (our subject) lived at home until he was 25 years of age.  His educational advantages were limited, and confined to the district schools in New York, and a short period in Ohio.  He was married, July 18, 1830, to Miss Sarah Smith, daughter of Moses and Sarah (Haley) Smith, who were natives of Massachusetts, and came to Ohio about the year 1825.  After his marriage, he occupied a piece of land containing 50 acres, and continued upon it until 1844, when he bought the old homestead.  In October, 1863, his wife died, leaving seven children, three of whom are living - Delos, a farmer in Springfield Township; Milton, cigar manufacturer, Akron, and Louisa, now Mrs. Thos. F. Cleveland, of Akron.  Soon after the death of his wife, Mr. Hart moved to Akron, where he has since resided.  He was married to Mrs. Pratt, formerly Miss Sophia M. Packer a native of New York, who came to Ohio with her parents about 1832.  They settled in Portage Co.,  where he died; she died in Akron, where she was living with her daughter.  He was a prosperous farmer, and was widely known as a leading dairyman.
Source: History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio Edited by William Henry Perrin. Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 ~ Page 721
COL. JOHN C. HART, deceased, was born in Cornwall, Litchfield, Conn., Apr. 17, 1798.  In 1802, his father, Rufus Hart, moved to Genesee Co., N. Y., where he lived until 1815, when he moved to Ohio.  In the war of 1812, his father was a Lieutenant in a company commanded by Capt. Maillison, and was in the battles of Chippawa and Lundy's Lane and the burning of Buffalo.  Between the age of 14 and 15, John C. enlisted in a company of cavalry at Rochester, N. Y., under Capt. Stone, and was with his father at Newark, Fort George and other contested points.  He was at Black Rock as a bearer of dispatches when the British attacked Fort Erie in 1814.  After the war, he and his father returned to Genesee Co., and, in 1815, they removed to Ohio, and settled at Middlebury, now the Sixth Ward of Akron.  At the age of 21, John C. started south, going on foot to Steubenville, thence by raft down the Ohio.  His raft lodging, he went on foot to Cincinnati, thence by canoe or skiff to Shawneetown, Ill., thence on foot to St. Louis, where, for a time he worked in a mill and later made bricks at Milton.  The June following, he returned home and bought 50 acres of land just south of Middlebury, which he improved.  HE was married, Feb. 24, 1831, to Miss Margaret A. Sterling, by which marriage he had six children - four sons and two daughters.  She died Mar. 7, 1869, and, Dec. 22, 1870, he married Mrs. Mary A. Sterling, formerly Miss Todd, a daughter of Stephen Todd, of Beaver Co., Penn.  She was born May 1, 1828, and, when 16 years of age, her parents removed to Wooster, Ohio, and, two years later, to Canal Dover, where she married John Sterling, a merchant of that place.  He was born June 16, 1818, and died Dec. 145, 1854.  By this marriage there were two children - John S., of Cleveland, and Flora E., now Mrs. Beardsley, of Cleveland.  After her husband's death, she moved to New Lisbon, thence to Cleveland, where she lived until her marriage with Col. Hart, Dec. 22, 1870.  Col. Hart obtained his military title by raising a regiment of cavalry at Middlebury under the old militia law of the State, and of which he was commander at the time it was disbanded.
Source: History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio Edited by William Henry Perrin. Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 ~ Page 721
Springfield Twp. -
JOHN S. HART
, contractor, Middlebury; was born in Middlebury, Summit Co., Ohio, Dec. 5, 1833, to John C. and Margaret A. (Sterling) Hart, and lived on his father's farm until he was 16 years of age, when he entered the high school at Abingdon, Mass., where he remained one year, and then attended the high school at Winchester, Mass. , where he remained for a short time, and then returned home and assisted his father at farming and other business.  On March 12, 1856, he was united in marriage to Zilpha M. Tinker, daughter of Daniel Tinker, of Rochester, N. Y.  Two children were born to them, viz.: Louise Sumner and Hiram S. (deceased).  In September, 1873, his wife died, and on the 19th of July, 1874, he married Rose Henry, daughter of Jacob Henry, of Pittsburgh. They have no children.  In 1856, he engaged in farming, which business he followed until 1861, when he adopted the stoneware business, in company with William E. Smith, at which he continued until 1873.  In July, 1875, he was engaged by the Akron Strawboard Company —the largest establishment of its kind in the State—as contractor, which business he is now engaged in. In addition to this, he carries on the old homestead farm.  Mr. Hart is a stanch Republican, always having voted with that party.
Source: History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio Edited by William Henry Perrin. Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 ~ Page 912
Norton Twp. -
JOHN HARTER, farmer; P. O. Johnson's Corners; is a son of Jacob Harter, who was a soldier of 1812, and whose history appears in this work under the head of Coventry Township.  He was born Aug. 28, 1822, in Franklin Township, near Manchester.  His educational advantages were such as could be acquired in those early pioneer days, in a wooded country, his father settling at a very early date, and purchasing 100 acres of heavy timber land at $4 per acre, in what was then known as the Hinckley Tract. In 1844, our subject left the home of his father and worked at different places until in 1845, when he started to Galena, Ill., performing most of the journey on foot; after stopping for a time in Galena, he went to Dubuque, Iowa, where he attended a mill for a few months, then went
up the river to the pineries in Wisconsin, returning in the fall of 1847, on a raft, from Black River, Wis., down the Mississippi to St. Louis, then to his home in Summit Co.  He was married, Sept. 20, 1848, to Elizabeth Baughman, daughter of Theobald and Mary (Willhelm) Baughman.  He engaged immediately in farming, living the first five years on the old Bartgess farm in southern Norton; then moved to the farm which he now occupies, purchasing the same from his father-in-law, about 1857.  By his marriage with Elizabeth Baughman, eight children were born unto them - George, Oliver, William (who died after arriving at maturity), Theobold, Eli, Otis, Melvina and Mary. Three sons and one daughter are married, Theobold now living  near Millersburg, Holmes Co., Ohio; George and Oliver now residing in Fayette Co., Ill.; Melvina, the wife of Wilson Waltz, residing on the Harter farm. Mr. Harter is a prominent man in Norton Township, having held the various offices of trust, both in the township and in the German Reformed Church, of which he and family are members.
Source: History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio Edited by William Henry Perrin. Publ. Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 ~ Page 968
Coventry Twp. -
MATHIAS HARTER
, farmer; P. O. Akron.  The Harter families in our county and country have become quite numerous.  The original stock emigrated from Wurtemberg, Germany, in the year 1748.  Three brothers landed in that year in the city of Philadelphia.  The colonial laws then allowed the owners of ships to sell all emigrants for a stated time, so as to pay their indebtedness to the ship.  The voyage having been both tedious and perilous, all the emigrants had to be sold for debts.  One of the brothers being lame he didn't bring anything on the block, so the mother of the family, who was a stout woman, was sold and worked out the indebtedness.  Two of the brothers moved into the interior of Pennsylvania, and one went to the colony of New York and settled in the valley of the Mohawk. The name was originally Herder, similar to the Herder who was one of Germany's most distinguished authors, theologians and teachers.  The names of some of the Harters who were among the first settlers in the southern part of this county are Andrew, who settled near the village of Manchester, and Jac Harter, who lives now in Coventry Township.  These Harters are first cousins.  Andrew came to Franklin Township in 1814.  But John Harter, the father of Jac, moved to Stark Co. previous to the war of 1812. The Harter family to which Andrew and Jac belong, is noted for its longevity.  The former is past 87 years, while the latter has rounded up his 88th year. Andrew has now a brother living in Center Co., Penn., who is 90 years old, and two sisters who are past 80.  The name of the original grandfather who came from Germany was Mathias.  It was he who was lame and did not bring anything.  Andrew Harter's father's name was John, who was born and raised in Lebanon Co., Penn. The family of Andrew Harter consisted of five sons and one daughter, who was the wife of Mr. Daniel Diehl, of Franklin Township. Two of the sons are dead - Andrew and Isaac. George resides at Independence, Iowa; Daniel and Mathias reside in Coventry Township. The latter lived in the State of Missouri when the War of the rebellion broke out. And as he resided in one of the hottest hot-beds of secession, he had great opportunities to learn the real spirit of the Southerners. After the fall of Fort Sumter, he took his wife and two children and started for Iowa, where he formerly resided, and after locating them as comfortably as he could, he enlisted in the 9th Regiment of O. V. I.  After the battles of Lookout Mountain and Mission Ridge in the fall of 1868, he re-enlisted for three years more, or during the war. He was with Gen. Sherman on his great march from Atlanta to the sea, and through the Carolinas and Virginia to Washington, and was mustered out at Louisville, Ky., in the month of June, I860.  After the war was over, he moved with his family to the city of Akron, where he started the "Akron File Works," in the fall of 1868.  Mathias Harter was married, in 1855, to Miss Sallie M. Hall, the youngest daughter of John Hall, second of Springfield Township, who was one of its earliest pioneers.  The family of Mathias Harter consists of three sons - Edwin C, Sigel F. and James Hall; and two daughters - Jennie Winona and Sallie Belle.  The two first sons and the first daughter were born at Independence, Iowa; of the remaining two, the daughter was born in Akron, and the son in the township of Coventry.
History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio - Edited by William Henry Perrin. - Illustrated. - Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 - Page 882
Copley Twp. -
G. W. HAWKINS, farmer; P. O. Copley Center; in 1814, Copley Township received its first settlers, and among them were the parents of the subject of this sketch.  Much of their early experiences in the woods of Copley will be found in the history of this township in another part of this volume.  G. W. Hawkins was the first white child born in the township, that date being Dec. 29, 1815.  At the age of 10 years Mr. Hawkin's father died of fever, and at the age of 14, took charge of the old homestead, 100 acres, and remained in charge until 1834, when his mother married again, and his step-father bought out the heirs.  In January, 1840, he was united in marriage with Miss Matilda Hubbard, daughter of Reuben Hubbard, and to this union there were born five children - Adelia, died in infancy; Eliza, born June 4, 1845, died Nov. 18, 1871; Alice C., born Sept. 14, 1847; George W., born Sept. 2, 1851, died Nov. 13, 1876; Eugene R., born June 28, 1854.  Five years after his marriage, Mr. Hawkins moved on to the eastern part of Lot 1, where he has ever since resided.  Mrs. Hawkins is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, while Mr. Hawkins is a Democrat in politics.  This family are among the leading ones of Copley Township.
History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio - Edited by William Henry Perrin. - Illustrated. - Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 - Page 1034
Twinsburg Twp. -
MRS. LUCIA HAWKINS, farming; is the relict of Joseph A. Hawkins, who was born Mar. 7, 1805, in Litchfield Co., Conn.; his father was a native of England, and upon his arrival in America, settled in East Windsor, Conn.  His children were named Joseph, Hannah and Grant.  At the outbreak of the war in 1812, he went out to battle; he died about the year 1817, leaving his wife with seven children, and in straitened circumstances, Joseph came West about the year 1829 to Hudson Township.  Dec. 15, 1831, he married Lucia Pond, who was born Mar. 5, 1815 in Winchester, Conn.  Preston and Esther (Whedon) Pond, both natives of Connecticut.  The family came West in 1818, with their ox team, and her father's first location was on Lot 14, in Twinsburg Township; he was among the first arrivals, there being but about five families in the township at that time.  Lucia was one of eight children, viz., Lucia, Harriet, Mary, Sarah, Laura, Julius, Julia and Lewis.  Mr. Pond remained in this township but a few years and then removed to Hudson, where he died about the year 1833.  His companion reached the ripe age of 85.  He was a good man, upright and conscientious in his dealings, and although not a member of any ecclesiastical order, yet he lived a Christian life.  After the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins; they lived in Hudson until 1837, when they moved to the southeastern part of this township, and engaged in farming.  In his early life, he served as Captain in the militia, afterward as Colonel.  He was the first to introduce the stock of Devonshire cattle in this township.  Mr. Hawkins died Aug. 12, 1873, having at the time of his death 400 acres of land.  The farm was first settled by Lewis AllingMr. Hawkins was a member of the Congregational Church, of which his wife is an active representative.  There are two sons - Albert W. and Alfred; A. W. resides on the homestead.
History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio - Edited by William Henry Perrin. - Illustrated. - Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 - Page 1044
Copley Twp.-
SAMUEL HENKEY, farmer; Copley Center; was born in Lancaster Co., Penn., in October, 1828.  He is a son of Louis and Catharine (less) Henkey, who were parents of seven children; when our subject was but an infant his parents moved from his native State to Stark Co., Ohio.  Our subject received a common-school education in youth, and he remained with his parents until he became a man.  In October, 1849, he married Mary Witmer, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Gougler) Witmer, who was born Aug. 21, 1827.  To this union were born five children - David, born Oct. 8, 1850; Mary E, born Feb. 4, 1854; Catharine, Nov. 14, 1863; John H., May 24, 1855, and Elizabeth, born July 14, 1858.  In 1851, Samuel, together with his parents moved from Stark Co., to Wayne Co., Ohio, and, after four year's stay there, moved to Summit Co., Ohio.  They lived in the latter county in different localities, until about 1860, when they came to Copley Township, Summit Co., Ohio, where our subject and family have ever since resided.  Mr. Henkey is a Republican in politics, and he and wife are members of the Evangelical Association of Bath Township.
History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio - Edited by William Henry Perrin. - Illustrated. - Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 - Page 1034
Copley Twp. -
LEVI D. HOLLINGER, farmer; P. O. Akron; was born Apr. 6, 1846, in Franklin Township; he is a son of Jacob and Barbara (Daily) Hollinger, who were parents of the following: Joseph, Michael, David, Jacob, Levi D., Amanda, Marriet, and Josiah and Uriah (twins); the mother of these children died in 1860, and Mr. Hollinger married his second wife, Mary Underholt, and by her had two children - Warren and MinnieLevi remained with his parents until during the war, when, being a lad of only 17, he enlisted in the cause of his country in Co. E, 13th O. V. I., and was afterward transferred to Co. D; he participated in some of the most noted engagements of war, among them being Stone River, Chickamauga, Mission Bidge, Buzzard's Roost, Resaca, Peach Tree Creek, Atlanta, Franklin, Nashville, Kenesaw Mountain, and many others; Mr. Hollinger was one of the few who escaped drowning from the sinking of the steamer Matagorda, below Memphis.  He was married in February, 1868, to Minerva Wylie, daughter of John Wylie, whose biography appears in this work; to this union were born two children - Myrven J., born Oct. 23, 1868, and Dwight, born July 5, 1876.  Mrs. Hollinger was born Feb. 8, 1843.  Soon after their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Hollinger moved to Benton Co., Iowa, where they remained farming for six years; at the end of that time they returned to Franklin Township, Summit Co., Ohio, where they lived until about 1878, when they came to Copley Township, where he has since resided.
History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio - Edited by William Henry Perrin. - Illustrated. - Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 - Page 1034
Bath Twp. -
ROSWELL HOPKINS, Ghent.  This gentleman was born in Bath Township, this county, Apr. 3, 1825.  He is one of a family of eight children born to Isaac and Susan (Harrison) Hopkins.  Isaac Hopkins was a native of the "Empire" State, where he resided until reaching his majority, when he went to Pennsylvania, and while there met the lady who became his wife.  She was a native of Connecticut, but had come with her parents to the "Keystone" State when a child.  On the 10th of September, 1813 (the day of Perry' victory on Lake Erie), Mr. and Mrs. Hopkins left their home in Pennsylvania for Bath Township, Summit Co., Ohio.  They came in a large wagon drawn by two yoke of oxen, and, after a journey of six weeks, arrived safe and sound at their destination.  They located on what is now known as the McMillan farm in the southwestern part of Bath Township.  Mr. Hopkins had purchased quite a tract of land, but after the war was over everything depreciated in value to such an extent and money became so scarce that it was only by the greatest exertions and strictest economy that he was able to keep his property.  It took years, however, to accomplish this, and few men would have had the energy and perseverance to have done as much.  He was honored during his lifetime with a number of offices which he filled with much credit to himself and lasting benefits to those for whom he labored.  He was ever ready to advance the public good, and renowned for his strict business principles and sterling integrity.  He departed this life in 1852, followed by his faithful wife ten years later.  Roswell Hopkins received but a limited education, as his services were required at home nearly all the time.  Whenever he had a spare day, however, he would work for some of the neighbors, and his earnings would go toward clothing him.  He was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Lee Oct. 8, 1846.  This lady was born Dec. 18, 1828, in New York.  From this union there were ten children, viz.:  George, Wait, Ira, Burt, Ami, Cecil, Edna, Irene, Grant and Emma.  Wait, Ami, Cecil and Emma are the only ones now living.  Mr. Hopkins began life as a poor boy, his wedding suit being of "home-spun," and he now says, "I was very glad that I had as good."  He followed farming exclusively until 10 years ago, a business he was very successful at.  Since that time he has dealt quite extensively in lumber.  He owns a saw-mill which is propelled by water, and which is supplied with the latest and most approved machinery.  He owns 250 acres of land which is nicely improved.  He has held positions of honor and trust, and is a Republican in politics, although not a strict party man.  His rule is to vote for men and measures and not for party.  The county would be much better off did it contain more such men as Mr. Hopkins.
History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio - Edited by William Henry Perrin. - Illustrated. - Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 - Page 1017
Hudson Twp. -
REV. HENRY B. HOSFORD

History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio - Edited by William Henry Perrin. - Illustrated. - Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 - Page 832

Franklin Twp. -
HENRY A. HOUSMAN, Superintendent Franklin Coal Mine, Clinton.  he is the oldest son of Jacob Housman, who was married to Catharine Brougher.  He was born in Franklin Township July 19, 1840.  He worked on the farm until he was 20 years old.  He was then employed as clerk in a store in Manchester, Ohio.  In 1860,  he went into business for himself.  This he carried on successfully until 1870, when he took charge of the Franklin Coal Mine.  He came to Clinton in 1875, and has resided here since; he also taught school here for one and one-half years.  He was married in 1862, to Margaret Sisler, a native of Manchester, Ohio.  They have two children - Nellie and Fannie.  He is at present Superintendent of the Franklin Coal Mine, an extensive and paying mine.
History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio - Edited by William Henry Perrin. - Illustrated. - Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 - Page 1027
Northampton Twp. -
JOHN HOVEY
, farmer; P. O. Buckeye.  Among the old and time honored residents of Northampton Township, is the subject of this biography.  He was born in the District of Montreal, in the Province of Lower Canada, June 1, 1814.  He is the son of Abiel and Martha (Hardy) Hovey, who were parents of the following family: Amos, Ira, Aurelia, Mary, Abiel, James, John, Martha, Silas and Paulina.  Of these, only James, John and Silas are now living. The parents were natives of Massachusetts.  They came to what is now known as Boston Township, Summit Co., Ohio, in 1819,  and settled first on the farm now owned by Thomas Woods.  After living here and enduring the hardships of a pioneer's life two years, Mrs. Hovey died.  His widow survived him until 1837, when she too died.  John Hovey was reared on a farm, and not having the school advantages in those early days that we of the present have, his education was limited.  He was married, June 18, 1835, to Maria Chamberlain, daughter of Ephraim and Deborah (Schoonover) Chamberlain, who emigrated to Northampton Township, Summit Co., Ohio, from New York, in 1820.  To this union there were born five children - Nelson A., Simeon E., Aurelia, Harvey T. and Ephraim C.  Of these, only the oldest and youngest are living.  Nelson married Mary Howland, and lives in Old Portage.  Ephraim married Lovisa Allen, and lives in Northampton Township.  Mrs. Hovey was born in September, 1813, and is one in a family of six.  Mr. Hovey's whole life has been passed in farming and lumbering.  He now owns a farm of 76 acres of well-improved land, and is a stanch and unflinching Republican in politics.
History of Summit County, with an outline sketch of Ohio - Edited by William Henry Perrin. - Illustrated. - Chicago: Baskin & Battey, Historical Publishers, 186 Dearborn Street - 1881 - Page 858

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