Wednesday, July 4, 2012

Ottoville Items - 1894


1-4-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
One of the meanest thefts ever perpetrated here occurred on Christmas morning before daylight. While the family of Peter Wannemacher was at church, some thief entered his dwelling house broke open a desk and stole $35 in cash and a revolver. The thief also broke into a chest and stole $5 belonging to a blind man, which had earned it by broom making.
Henry Vanoss is visiting friends in New Reigle this week.
            Wm. Schlagbaum was in Cincinnati during the holidays.
            Miss Gress, of Perrysburg, is the guest of Ben Wannemacher.
            Alex and Stephen Wannemacher have gone to Angola, Ind., to take a course in the Normal School.
            Frank Miller and Miss Teresa Sellet are both very sick at present.
            Miss Jallop, of Bucyrus, Miss Leis, of Henry County and Miss Roafing, of Bellevue, are spending the holidays with their friends here.
            Jack Allenberger has accepted a situation with C. Wannemacher & Son, in the sale of Farm Implements.
            My best wishes to the personnel of the Sentinel and its readers, upon the advent of the New Year.

     Jan. 2, 1894                                    ARGUS

1-11-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            On New Year’s Eve old mother Elizabeth Herman closed her eyes for the last time, in the 87th year of her age, at the home of Jos. Fierstos. She was an invalid for the past eight years, and leaves four grown children to and a large circle of friends to mourn her demise. The old lady was born in Prussia, Germany and Emigrated in 1846 with her family to America; first settled in Stark County, Ohio, but resided here on the old Fournier farm for the last seventeen years.
            The Ottoville Creamery has shut down, their business being unrenumerative.
            Math. Schulien, of the flouring mill, was in Toledo last week and saw the big fire.
            Frank Gruppenhoff has his new house completed and will move in it this week.
            The hardware firm of C. Wannemacher & Son has received a supply of swell body cutters and bobsleds. Who wants to buy?
                 Doctors Binder, Beardsly and Clark held a consultation upon Theresia Sellet last Friday. The patient is improving.
            Lewis and S. Remlinger are around with their machinery, dehorning cattle by the hundreds. It seems the farmers are approving of the treatment.
            Mr. Wm. Gasser made a business trip to Chicago last week.
    
     Jan. 8, 1894                                    ARGUS

 2-1-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
             On Monday morning, 22nd inst., there were three children laved out in this village, all of whom died of measles and la grippe. One was a girl of Michael Vondran, the baker, which was in its second year; the next was a boy, the son of L. Rieger, the shoemaker, who was in his fourth year; the third was the only son of Jos. G. Otte, the dry goods merchant, 18 months old. They were buried Wednesday in the Catholic cemetery. Many more children are now suffering with measles. Our teacher, E. J. Keefer, has been laid up the last two weeks.
            Messrs. Andy Kehres and J. B. Mersman made a business trip to Toledo the first part of the week.
            Rev. Father Mueller assisted at Landeck, on last Monday, and Tuesday, through forty hours devotion.
            Misses Lizzie Zahm and Maria Winkelman were in Defiance last week.
            Mr. Nich. Gillen is constructing a large cellar under his business house.
            Mr. August Binder, of Boston, Mass., is visiting his brother, Dr. Binder, at present.
            At an early hour Sunday morning a shooting occurred on the canal boat “Emma”. Mrs. Booth having been to neighbors until quite late and upon her return home a quarrel ensued with her husband, Chris Booth, during which he picked up a shotgun and shot his wife in the face, wounding her severely though not dangerous. He says he did not know the gun was loaded.
            Last Sunday evening while the family of Robert Martin was at a meeting at Antioch, there stable and straw stack were fired and burned to the ground. Two fine horses and a lot of utensils were consumed. The loss to Mr. Martin is quite heavy, as last summer three of his horses died. Two individuals were seen trying to enter Mr. Harpsters house while the fire was burning. The attempt was made three times that night, but as the occupant was watching them, the rascals were frightened away.
            Mike Keeper was arraigned before Squire Wannemacher for misconduct last Monday. He was cleared by paying $8.50.
            A little daughter recently came to stay at Henry Mundry’s and also at Mathias Huber’s.

                                                ARGUS

2-8-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            Large quantities of ice were put up during the last week, from four to six inches thick. This time the early bird got the poorest.
            Mr. John Schirach has moved to Wyndott County.
            Mr. William Gasser is at Chicago buying lumber and stock for the planing mill.
            Last week Tuesday Mr. Max Kortokrax was married to Effy Carpenter, at Van Wert. Also, on last Wednesday, at the Catholic Church here, Mr. Joseph Rust and Miss E. Johnston of Paulding County.
            On Monday night a grand ball was held at Beckman House, which was well attended. Good order was maintained, and a jolly good time was had by the young folks.
            Mrs. Helena Douest of Defiance was here visiting friends over Sunday, but was called home by telegram yesterday.
 
     Feb. 6, 1894                            ARGUS

2-16-1894 LTD
One More Talley
Added to that of the Man Talley, Who is on the Beat
            A farmer living near Ottoville, Putnam County, was in the city yesterday, in search of a man who gave his name as J. E. Talley, who beat him out of a two weeks’ board bill.        
            The farmer stated that Talley came to his house and claimed to represent the insurance firm of Wallace and Son, of Lima, and was soliciting for them in and about Ottoville. The farmer took him in as a boarder, and after staying a couple of weeks he disappeared without paying for his board. The farmer came here and expected to get Wallace and Son to settle the bill, but learned to his sorrow that he had been flimmed, as Talley was not in their employ, and was unknown to them.
            Talley is well known in this city. He came here some time ago from Angola, Ind., where he taught school. He attempted to beat J. P. Brandon, at the time proprietor of the Lake Erie House, out of a board bill, and also a hotelkeeper in Kalida out of a $25 board bill. Both of theses bills were collected by Chief Stockton five or six weeks ago, and a pair of eyeglasses were stolen from Vortkamp’s Drug Store, which were afterwards found at Harrison’s Pawn Shop, where they had been pawned by a man answering Talley’s description. He disappeared before the glasses were found and was not heard from again until the arrival of the Ottoville man.

2-22-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            Last Sunday the old man Andrew Heizman was struck with palsy, which resulted in death on Tuesday following. Dr. Clark was summoned, but the case defied all medical treatment. Mr. Heizman spent his last days at the home of Ferd. Wannemacher, and arrived at the rip old age of 81 years. He was born in Baden, Germany, and came to America in 1846, and first settled in Seneca County, but for the last sixteen years resided here. He leaves one son and three daughters, all grown up and with families, to mourn the loss of a good father. Mr. Charles Heizman of New Orleans, and Mr. Jacob Gross, a son-in-law of Saginaw county, Michigan, attended the funeral.
             Miss Theresa Sellet is lying in a very critical condition.
            Messrs. Winkelman & Vincke have supplied their saloon with a pooltable.
            The yard of J. B. Mersman’s mill was pretty well filled up during this weeks sleighing.
            Many new buildings are in prospect of being put up the coming season.

     Feb. 16, 1894                ARGUS

3-1-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            The lingering illness of Theresia Sellet terminated in death last Wednesday morning. She was in her 18th year. Her funeral, which took place on Friday, was largely attended, especially by the young folks.
            Charles Sellet was seriously injured by a horse, which he was riding falling upon him.
            A company of our farmers has purchased a splendid Percheron stallion; he is a large, black, well-muscled horse, and will be a great improvement in the horse line.
            This Thursday morning the old man Joseph Rieger died in his 84th year. He was sick for several weeks of dropsy. He leaves a wife and a large family of grown children to mourn his demise.
            Wm. Burgy has sold his half interest in the stone crusher to Joseph Stuter, who will hereafter carry on the business alone.
            Mr. J. B. Mersman was in Toledo and Melrose on Business last week.

     Feb 27, 1894                            ARGUS

3-15-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            Ed. Zink has sold his farm of 53 acres to J. Miller of Leipsic.
            The caucus last Saturday resulted as follows: Justice of the Peace, William Pluemer, Clerk, Henry Wurst; Assessor, Ben. Miehls; Trustee, George Harpster; Constable, Charles Hamilton.
            August and Charles Wannemacher and Andy Krebs have gone to Illinois to engage in farm work.
            John P. Haaff has opened a jewelry shop in the new building of Peter Krebs, near the upper canal bridge, and is ready to do anything in this line of business.
            Mr. J. B. Mersman has leased the St. Charles House, and will refit it with new furniture and new stock, and will run a complete lunch counter. Mr. Alex Heinle will assist in the business. The change will be made this week.
            C. J. Wannemacher will move his family in the building owned by C. Marbach, near the lock.
            Mr. John Koebele of Traverse county and Mr. Henry Eickholt of Saginaw county, Michigan, are back to see old friends.
            Alex. Lauer bought the Rekart property on the corner opposite the post office.
            The hardware firm of Charles Wannemacher & Son has received a carload of the Turnbull wagons last week. These wagons have a wide spread reputation and are so extensively sold in this section that it supercedes all others. Those in want of wagons will do well to give them a call soon. As all sizes and styles are on hand.
            Three fires within the last ten days destroyed considerable property. They all occurred along the line of this township in Van Wert County. The first was the burning of H. Fremoth’s new frame barn, on the morning of the first of this month. Four horses, a lot of hay, a full line of farm machinery, wagon, buggy, and many other articles, were consumed. He is insured in the Delphos Farmers Insurance Co. This fire no doubt was the work of an incendiary; a suspicious looking man was seen passing through this village, going east, shortly after the fire. The next fire occurred on last Wednesday night. It was an unoccupied frame house on the Delphos road, belonging to Mrs. Woltman. As no one has lived in the house for the last three months, there is hardly a doubt but what it was set on fire. Insured in the Delphos Farmers Insurance Co. Mr. Henry Schuersman was soon to move into the destroyed building. On Saturday afternoon the old barn of Mathias Eickholt was destroyed by fire, caused by sparks from a portable sawmill, which was sawing lumber for a new barn. The loss will be a severe one to Mr. Eickholt, as he had no insurance. A lot of dressed lumber, 150 dollars worth of roofing slate, 600 bushels of corn, 170 bushels of wheat, twelve tons of hay, harness and tools, and also a number of hogs perished.

     March 11, 1894                ARGUS

3-29-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            The St. Charles Hotel was formally opened last Sunday by J. B. Mersman. The cornet band turned out and gave some excellent music. A large number of Mr. Mersman’s friends from other places were present. All our people old and young approved the opening with their presence. A good time was had without interruption until a late hour of the night. May success attend him.
            Jacob Stahl of Sioux City, Iowa, is visiting his parents here.
                 Stephen and Alexander Wannemacher have returned home from the Angola school.
            A carload of nails and fence wire has just been received by our hardware firm, C. Wannemacher & Son. Their spring trade is opening splendid.
            The first kiln of lime was burned by Oliver Hoehn last week. He intends to keep lime on hand at all times during the summer.
            Mr. Wendelin Suter, from New Washington, has moved on a farm, which he bought of M. Schulien.
            Last Sunday the remains of Lampson Karnes,  who died on the Friday previous, were buried at the Van Wert Ridge Cemetery. He was but 32 years old and died of consumption. He was born here and resided on the Van Wert county line. He leaves a wife and three children to mourn his early death.

     March 26, 1894                ARGUS

4-19-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            The wife of Henry Waltman, aged 40 years, died last Thursday, leaving a husband and seven children to mourn her early death. She was born here and was the daughter of Chris. Rizman. Her funeral took place last Saturday at the Christian church, three miles north of this place, and was conducted by Elder Harvey Adams, and was attended by a large circle of friends.
            Mr. J. B. Mersman was elected member of the school board last Monday.
            Henry Pawel was married to Mary Schoemaker last Thursday.
            C. Wannemacher & Son have moved their hardware buildings, peremptory to building a new storehouse for their business.
            Aug. Becker has built a new barn this spring.
            Frank Eickholt will be married to Katie Shirach on Wednesday.

     April 17, 1894                ARGUS

4-26-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            Mr. Anthony Martin sold his farm to Jacob Miller. Consideration $3,900. Mr. Miller will take possession in a few days, and Mr. Martin will move to town and retire from actual labor.
            The wedding of Frank Eickholt and Katie Schirack on last Wednesday concluded with a nice and well-attended ball at Gillen’s Hall.
            Wm. Rellinger has bought an interest in the drug store, and will conduct the business thereafter. He solicits the public for a share of patronage.
            John Wurst and Laura Myron were married last Saturday at the church here.
            John Reckart has rented the Schiller Hall and saloon at Delphos, Ohio, and will enter upon the business the 1st of May.
            J. J. Miller and wife made a visit to McClure, Ohio, over Sunday.
            Frank Gminer and wife have gone to Wyndotte County to spend a week among their relatives.
            Ben Muhls has entered upon his duties as Assessor.

     April 23, 1894                ARGUS

5-10-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            Last Tuesday morning Charles Wolf, the druggist, “skipt” the town and had his household goods sent to Cincinnati. William Remlinger now has charge of the drug store and invites his friend to give him a call.
                 Teacher Kiefer was called by telegraph to Canton, Ohio, where his mother is in critical condition.
            Frank Krebs has bargained for a new five hundred dollar hearse, which will be on hand in few days.
            John Shneeg had his hand badly cut by a buzz saw last Thursday.
            This village is making great improvement in the way of piking its streets. Stuter and Yacklin are the contractors.
            Mr. J. B. Mersman went to Cleveland, Ohio, last Monday, on business.
            August Binder has gone to Cincinnati, where he is employed by the Victor Safe Company.
            Mrs. Wenz Klima has erected a new barn.
            Mr. Joseph Muehlenbach has also his new barn nearly completed.
            Charles Kalt has returned home from Dayton, Ohio.
            Jacob Miller was married to Miss E. Smith, of Muntanna, last week, and has settled down on his farm, which he lately purchased of Anthony Martin.
            August Smith and Eva Janke were married here last Tuesday morning, and have settled down to housekeeping near lock 17.

     April 29, 1894                ARGUS

5-24-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            The Assessor returned forty-nine new buildings for taxation. How is this for little Monterey?
            Little three-year-old son of Henry Schmersales died last Wednesday.
 Stuter and Yacklin were awarded the contract for the two miles of pike in this township.
            John Schnieder and Lucy Sanders were married here last Thursday.
            Miss Lucy Kehres has returned home from Cincinnati.
            John B. Haaf has moved his family into the Heizman building, and is also now running a jewelry shop therein.
            Mr. Joe Fredrich is now on a visit to his son at McClure, Ohio.
            Mr. Kleinhaus and Sowers have opened up a new barbershop in the Krebs building, near the canal.
            Peter Wannemacher is erecting a new house on the old sawmill lot.
            A bouncing little Democrat took quarters at Mr. Guisinger’s last Wednesday.
            The drug store has been fitted up with a large and fine stock of wallpaper, paints, oils, drugs and medicines. Mr. Remlinger, the new druggist, is ever ready to accommodate his patrons.    

     May 21, 1894                ARGUS

5-31-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            Mrs. Katherine Rekart has bought a lot of Peter Wannemacher, opposite the schoolhouse, and is about to erect a commodious dwelling thereon.
            Mr. Frank Krebs has received his new hearse. It is an elegant one.
            Mr. Joseph Sutter has sold his interest in the livery stable to his partner, Frank Miehls, who is fitting up with fine vehicles and good horses, and is ready to accommodate the public in that line.
            Three weddings in one week are the records of this village: first was George Brakhouse of Ft. Jennings and Anna Krebs of Ottoville; next Peter Schmidt and Lucy Perrine: the third was Theodore Kramer and Theresia Sutter.

     May 27, 1894                ARGUS

6-14-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            John Zahm, the blacksmith’s son, is lying sick with a severe attack of inflammatory rheumatism. His two sisters, Mary and Lizzie, of Defiance, and Nick Zahm, of Greensburg township, were summoned to his bedside as his life was despaired of but he appears some better now.
            The Kehres family had a grand reunion last Sunday. There was present Mrs. Gonglove of New Orleans, a sister to mother Kehres, whom she had not seen for 40 years; her son George, an extensive cotton dealer, and a niece; also another sister, Mrs. Gorins of Akron; George Kehres, a brother-in-law, of Findlay, and a large circle of their extensive relationship from this neighborhood. They all enjoyed the day, but it is not probable that they will all meet again as some are high of age.
            Mr. Frank Miehls is driving a fine new sample wagon, made by G. Wannemacher and Pittner of Ottoville.
            Jos. Sutter visited his uncle at Attica, Ohio.
            Mr. J. B. Mersman made a business trip to Toledo and Ft. Wayne last week.
            Our village seems to supply their share in harvesting machines, as several car-loads arrived at Douglas Station, some for F. Distel and some for Charles Wannemacher & Son.
            Miss Anna Wannemacher has returned home from Ft. Wayne.

     June 11, 1894                Ottoville

6-28-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            The dwelling house of L. Rieger was struck by lightening last Wednesday. It entered the roof of the home, followed along the rafters and went down the gutter into the cistern. A number of school children had taken refuge in the house, though none were injured. The damage amounted to $69.
            Mr. Henry Wurst and wife have gone to Chicago to undergo an operation.
            Mr. J. B. Mersman has put his fans and engine in his saloon, much to the comfort of his guests these hot days.
            Mr. Ben Meihls, Alex Lauer, Mrs. Maggie Mueller and Mrs. Anna Lauer took in the excursion to Dayton last Sunday.
            Mr. Len Gminer has just burned a large kiln of brick for C. Wannemacher’s new building.
            John Zahm is convalescent, so much so as to be out of danger.

     June 25, 1894                ARGUS

7-16-1894 DH
Ottoville Items
            At Ottoville Saturday afternoon there came near being a bad fire. A tramp called at the home of Mr. Miller, a farmer living near town, and demanded Mrs. Miller to give him something to eat. She was in the house alone at the time and gave the tramp what he asked for. Out of pure devilishness he cursed her and then went out into the barnyard and set fire to a large straw stack. It was only by hard work that the barn and house were saved. The scoundrel has not yet been apprehended.

7-26-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            The German Pioneer Picnic will be held at this place on the 2nd of August next. Every effort will be made by our citizens to make it one of the grandest celebrations ever held in this county. Ottoville does nothing by halves. We extend a kind invitation to all friends of the association, no matter what tongue they speak, especially those who have seldom have occasion to visit our little burg.
                 Theodore Kramer is erecting a new dwelling house in east Ottoville.
            Peter Wannemacher has completed his new house on the old sawmill ground, and Frank Fredrich has moved his family into it.
            The new house of Barbara Young is also completed.
            Mrs. Carolina Wurst has returned home from Chicago. She was detained for three weeks on account of the strike.
            Mr. G. Lauer, of Van Wert, has received the contract for the brickwork of C. Wannemacher’s new store room, and has the work under good headway.
            Wm. Burgi had a finger partly torn off by a hay carrier pulley.
            John Zahm is on the street again very much improved of a rheumatic attack.
            A little boy of F. Distel fell from a counter and broke his leg.
            The cry of fire excited the neighborhood on last Saturday noon. It was soon learned that the large new straw stack of J. D. Miller, one-half mile south of here, was burning, endangering his buildings. Our fire department went to the scene and by their service saved a wheat field in shock belonging to Otto Kortokrax. A favorable wind saved further destruction.
            Wheat is brought to market in large quantities. The yield is the largest ever known here and of good quality.

July 22, 1894                ARGUS

8-9-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            The Ottoville cornet band appeared in brand new uniforms last Sunday, which they received from Philadelphia. Our citizens contributed money to pay for them. Mr. Frank Geier and his son are assisting the boys. The band will attend the picnic at Ft. Jennings tomorrow.
            Our citizens are making large preparations for the coming pioneer picnic, on 22nd inst.
            Mr. Paul Desaverna is here doing decorative painting.
            The St. Charles hotel is enlarged by the addition of a new kitchen.
            Our merchants have decided to do business on the cash system after the 20th inst., which will enable them to sell at lower prices.
            Miss Clara Wannemacher and Martha Widner, of Dayton, and C. Huber, of Ft. Wayne, who attended the Saengerfest at Toledo, were here visiting the Wannemacher family.
            An infant of Joseph Plescher and one of And. Jacklin died last week.
            The Trustees are busily engaged in piking the roads west of town.
            The choir is actively engaged in practicing for the coming picnic.
            Mrs. Harpster had $1,300 stolen from under a tree in her garden last May. A detective was engaged to work the case up, and one Amos Tongs was arrested and brought before Squire Wannemacher and bound over to answer said charge before the grand jury at the next term of court.
            Our neighboring town of Delphos was again visited by a destructive fire last week, destroying the new building of A. Flick (known as Schiller Hall) for the second time in three years.
            Miss Dina Kortokrax has gone to Seneca County to visit relatives.

     Aug. 6, 1894                            ARGUS

8-13-1894 DH
            The Ottoville Fire Department hose cart, which has been in Burger’s shop for a few days for repairs, was turned out yesterday afternoon.

8-16-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            Mr. G. Lauer with his men from Indiana to finish the brickwork of the Chas. Wannemacher store building.
            Mr. Aaron Huysman and wife, Charles Wannemacher and his son Stephen, John Zahm, John Winkleman and John Plesher attended the centennial anniversary in Defiance.
            Mr. B. Wurst and Lizzie Kehres were in Seneca County during the past week, visiting friends in and near New Riegel.
            A little infant of Chris. Walke died and was buried last Saturday.
            Mr. Hart Gensinger and three of his children are very sick with typhoid fever.
            Mr. J. B. Mersman and wife were at Dayton last Thursday.
            Geo. Wannemacher, the blacksmith, has a call for another anvil --- for a little boy.
            Misses Minnie and Lizzie Mischo, of Ft. Wayne, Ind., are the guest of Nicholas Zahm at present.
            Our baseball club played a game with the Delphos club last Sunday and came out behind. The game stood 17 to 23.

     Aug. 12, 1894                ARGUS

8-22-1894 DH
A Big Time     The German Pioneer Picnic at Ottoville Attracts a Large Crowd
            The long looked for picnic is being held at Ottoville today, and attracted one of the largest crowds ever assembled there. Ample provisions were made to entertain the crowds and it is undoubtedly a success. The people will not go thirsty at any rate, as a couple a hundred kegs of beer were taken to Ottoville yesterday and last night. Preparations were made for a regular barbeque, calves, sheep and cattle being roasted to satisfy the hunger of the picnickers. It is estimated that several hundred people from Delphos are there today to participate in the festivities. It will be one of the most notable events in the history of Putnam County.

8-23-1894 DH
Fun and Frolic    Were The Prevailing Elements at Ottoville Yesterday, An Enormous Crowd Good Behavior and Plenty of Amusements Were to be Found at The German Pioneer Picnic
            It was with joyful hearts that the thousands of people assembled at Ottoville yesterday on the occasion of the German Pioneer Picnic. Preparations for the entertainment of the visitors had been carried on for a week past, and when the crowds began arriving in the morning they found that everything imaginable had been prepared for their comfort, Hickory boughs were cut in the woods and nailed to fences side walks, buildings and everywhere they would afford shade. Every street arranged in this manner, with large frame works covered with boughs, under which were placed seats, completely blockading the road. There were stands on nearly every corner from which the bands discoursed good music all day.
            The businessmen’s parade in the morning was a grand affair, and reflected credit on the businessmen of Ottoville. All of the wagons were artistically and fantastically arranged, as best suited the line of business they represented.
            There was no lack of entertainment for the great crowd. Dances’ in Galland’s and Beckman’s Halls attracted a goodly number all afternoon and evening. There were several bowling alleys in different parts of town, which entertained their share of the assemblage. A steam merry-go-round reaped a harvest of nickels, and on every corner there was either a lemonade stand or a gambling device.
            Everything moved off without any serious accidents or disturbances, even if there were a great many people imbibed to freely. There were several good speakers who delivered orations to the audiences, and which were well received.
            Old men, who have lived in Putnam County for forty, fifty and even sixty years, met yesterday and talked over the pioneer days when old Putnam was all timber land and swamps. Stories of adventure and privation of the early settlers were retold and so freshened the memory of the pioneers, that it seemed only a few years since these pioneer adventures and hardships.
            The Herald representative drove to Ottoville in the morning and was surprised to see what a large concourse of people had come to the picnic. It is estimated that there were fully 5,000 persons present. In the evening fireworks were sent up from a platform erected in the street, amid the cheers of the people, who regretted that the day had been so short and the festivities were so near to close. The committees who had charge of the arrangements their work faithfully and carried out every detail to the letter. The day will be a memorable one to the citizens of the Ottoville and Putnam County, as it was witnessed one of the largest crowds ever assembled on an occasion of this kind in grand old Putnam.

8-30-1894 PCS
            The annual reunion and picnic of the Putnam County German Pioneer Association was held at Ottoville on Wednesday of last week. It was the largest meeting of the kind ever held in the county, several thousand people in attendance. The people of Ottoville had made elaborate preparations to entertain their guests upon the occasion and notwithstanding the immense crowd of people all were well entertained and comfortably provided for.
            The village was handsomely decorated for the occasion with a profusion of flags, bunting &c., hung from the buildings and placed along the sidewalks. Seats were placed in almost every available place along the streets where shade could be made, and people were not compelled to grow weary by standing the day long on their feet.
            The industrial parade was very fine and extensive, every industry of the enterprising village being represented. Over forty industries were represented in the parade, which with hundreds of other vehicles made a procession which when fully in line filled almost every street of the village and was so large that it could not be arranged on one street at the same time.
            The exercises at the stand were well attended and in addition to both instrumental and vocal music, speeches were made in German by Dr. Huber, Hon. L. W. Wagner, Lewis Boehmer, Esq., and Hon. W. F. Hoffman, and in English by Judge J. J. Moore and Hon. J. S. Snook.
            Bands of music were present from Delphos, Ottawa and Paulding County, which with the Ottoville band entertained the people with some very fine airs.
            In the evening there was a fine display of fireworks, and dancing at several places.
            The reunion was decidedly the best ever held for many years and the crown in attendance both of Germans and Americans the largest that ever attended a gathering of the kind in the county. The handsome manner in which the good people of Ottoville entertained the crowd will be long remembered by all present, as no greater hospitality could possibly be extended, no people could be more clever or more desirous that their guests enjoy themselves.
            While in Ottoville we met many of our old German friends with whom we have been acquainted for the past quarter of a century and whom we were pleased to see enjoying good health and preserving their age in remarkable manner. We had the pleasure of stopping with our esteemed friend ex-County Commissioner Wannemacher, who entertained us in a very pleasing manner, and where we partook of an elaborate dinner, which was certainly a feast for any one. The Squire is as jolly and social as ever and may he live long to enjoy the return of many reunions.
            It was a late hour when the village was deserted and it was nearly morning when the last of the Ottawa delegation got home; there were several hundred people from this township in attendance at the reunion.


8-30-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            The German Pioneer picnic held at this village last Wednesday was one of the greatest affairs ever witnessed within its limits. The attendance was very large, estimated at about 6000 people, among them quite a number of distinguished men. The weather was fine and the behavior of the immense crowd was excellent, not a cross word was heard, and no arrests were necessary. The industrial parade was a grand affair, the speeches were excellent, in short, it was a grand day for Ottoville.
            Henry Giesken lost his best horse last Thursday morning. It jumped out of the field into his neighbor’s yard and broke into a well. When found it was dead.
            Frank Muehls and Jos. G. Otte were in Toledo over Sunday.
     Jos. Stuter came near losing his life last Saturday under peculiar circumstances. He blasted his well at noon and at 6 o’clock went down into it to clean it out, when he was overcome by gas. Jos. Distel was the only person present and he had to run for help to the stone-quarry. On returning Distel and Frank Fredrich descended the 18-foot deep well and tied a rope around the body of Stuter, and he was drawn up more dead than alive. He is now in a fair way of recovery.
            Miss Wehrle and sister, of Norwalk are here visiting F. Gmeiner.

     Aug. 27, 1894                ARGUS    


9-6-1894 DH
Death Near Ottoville
            Jacob Stahl, an aged citizen of Ottoville, died at his home near that place yesterday afternoon from dropsy. He was 73 years of age, and leaves a wife and eight children all grown. The funeral will be held from the Lutheren Church in Ft. Jennings tomorrow morning.

9-6-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            Death has been very busy in this locality. Eight children have died. Three were buried this week, one in each of the families of John Schuipka, Len. Gminer and Frank Gruppenhoff.
            Old man Stahl is dangerously sick with dropsy. His son Henry has returned from South Dakota, where he was engaged with Railroad Bridge Builders for the past year. He reports a failure of crops and that the farmers are killing or disposing of their cattle and moving east as fast as possible.
            Mr. Wm. J. Schimmoeller and Miss Langhals, were married here on last Thursday.
            Mr. G. Lauer has completed the brickwork on the building for C. Wannemacher & Son’s Hardware store.
            This week a little girl came to stay with Max Winkelman.
            Mr. J. B. Mersman has moved into his hotel, where he is ever ready to accommodate the traveling public.
            Mr. Wm. Burge visited his old home in Dearborn county, Ind., last week.
            Last Sunday evening, a surprise was made at the home of Mr. F. Gminer, in honor of Miss Wehrle and sister, who are visiting at Gminer’s. Sixteen of our young ladies and a number of the boys were in attendance. Mrs. Gminer understands how to entertain a social gathering.

     Sept. 2, 1894                            ARGUS

9-19-1894 DH
A Coming Weddin          
            Cards are out for the wedding of Miss Rosa, daughter of H. C. Grewe, to Edward H. Mersman, of Ottoville. The marriage will be solemnized by Rev. Father Hoeffel, at St. John’s Church, on Wednesday morning, Sept. 26th, at half past seven. The cards read, “at home after October first, Ottoville, Ohio.

9-26-1894 DH
Wedding Bells
Pealed Forth Their Joyous Tones at St. John’s Church this morning.
            An exceedingly pretty wedding occurred at St. John’s Church this morning, when Edward Mersman, a popular young businessman of Ottoville, was united in marriage to Miss Rosa, the youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H. C. Grewe. The bridal couple was attended by Miss Ella Kemper, of Lima, and Walter Mersman, of Ottoville, brother of the groom. The bride was robed in a dress of cream silk, trimmed in pearl lace and ribbon, and carried a bouquet of pink roses and maiden hair ferns. The groom and groomsman wore the conventional black. The bridal party entered the church at 7:30, and after the ceremony repaired to the home of the bride’s parents, on Clay Street, where a sumptuous wedding breakfast was spread and awaited their coming. The wedding table was artistically decorated with smilax and bouquets of sweet smelling flowers. The bridal cake was in the form of a pyramid, in four layers, mounted on a base and beautifully decorated and flowered with icing, the figures “1894” were to be seen on the side of the top layer. The dining room was decorated with smilax and flowers and made a striking appearance. Only the near relatives and friends were present.
            The HERALD joins a host of friends in wishing them every possible joy as they glide along the dream of wedded life. The gifts were numerous and costly, among them being a fine book case, bed room set, easy chairs, chinaware, silverware, etc. The happy young couple left this afternoon over the Clover Leaf, for Toledo, and tomorrow will go to Cleveland, where they will remain till Sunday. They will return to Delphos and Monday evening will receive their friends at the Mersman House, in Ottoville. They will be at home in Ottoville after Oct. 2nd.

9-20-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            The protracted sickness of Jacob Stahl terminated in his death on Wednesday of last week. He was 73 years and 7 months old, and leaves a widow and several grown children to mourn his demise. Funeral services were held in the Protestant church at Ft. Jennings on Friday, conducted by Rev. Paul Miller of Delphos, and was very largely attended, showing the high respect of his neighbors and acquaintances.
            In this village the oldest daughter of Hart. Guisinger died Sunday morning, the 16th inst., of typhoid fever. She was but 14 years old, and her early death is deeply regretted by all who new her.
            A little infant of Frank Fredrich, and also one of Joseph Didion, died last week.
            Leo Miller and wife of Chicago are here, visiting his father-in-law, Chris. Schmersale.
            A little girl came to the house of Gustav Kortokrax.
            Our Trustees have completed two miles of stone pike this summer, west of town.
            The School Board have purchased a piece of ground for the erection of a new school house.
            Mr. Math. Kramer has sold his meat market to Joseph Sutter and Max Kortokrax, who will hereafter carry on the business
            Mr. John Wurst is about erecting a new dwelling house in the east part of town.
            We have just received the report of the death of the wife of Peter Hugel, of Landeck. She was about 54 years old, and was a young companion of this neighborhood. Came here with her father, Wm. Osinga, in 1850. She leaves a large family of children.

     Sept. 17, 1894                ARGUS

9-27 1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            Leo Miller, Chicago, is lying dangerously sick at his father-in-law’s, C. Schmersale.
            Mr. Joseph Weber bought a farm of George Aelkins, on the east township line.
            Our school commenced last Monday, with E. J. Keifer as teacher of the high class, and L. M. J. Wagner of the primary.
            Mr. C. Halacher and wife were in Ft. Wayne during last week.
            Mr. Frank Krebs and J. B. Mersman supplied their families with new pianos bought of Peter Kramer of Ft. Jennings.
            Mrs. Cath. Rekart and daughters have moved into their new dwelling, near the schoolhouse.
            Miss Maria Winkelman made a visit to Defiance last Wednesday.
            Jacob Stahl, of Sioux City, Iowa, who came here to the funeral of his father, returned home last Monday.
            C. Wannemacher & Son received a stock of cooking and heating stoves for the winter.
            We had the pleasure last Sunday to meet our genial friend, Dr. Page, on our street; the Dr. having been called here on professional business. He will hereafter be at the Mersman Hotel on the 20th of each month to accommodate his patrons. The Dr. has acquired a wide reputation in the cure of chronic diseases and rheumatism.
            Miss Froesh, of Matamora, Fulton County, who was visiting at N. Gillen’s for some time, returned to her home last Monday.
 
     Sept. 23, 1894                ARGUS

10-4-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            Last Wednesday death ended the sufferings of Leo Mueller. He was but 26 years old, and was married but one year, to a daughter of Christopher Schmersale. He was born near New Washington, Crawford County, Ohio, where his boyhood days were spent. Afterwards he lived here some six years, when he went to Chicago. When his health failed him he came here, expecting the pure country air would cure him, but with no avail. His mother was at his bedside during his last days. He was highly respected by all who knew him. Funeral services were held at the Catholic Church on Thursday morning, attended by a large concourse of sympathizing friends.
            Mr. Edward Mersman, of this place, and Miss Rosa Grewe, of Delphos, were united in holy bands of matrimony at St. John’s Catholic Church, Delphos, by Rev. A. J. Hoeffel, last Wednesday. The happy couple started on their wedding trip to Toledo and Detroit the same day. Last Monday they returned to their home in Ottoville, where an affair was held in the evening, and free supper was served to several hundred guests at the Hotel Mersman. The young folks enjoyed themselves at a grand dance at the Beckman House.
                 Married, at the Catholic Church in this place, Mr. Peter Wannemacher and Miss Josephine Gard. The young couple will settle down on a farm near Cloverdale.
            A barbershop was moved here from Delphos by Mr. Risk, who will carry on the business.

     Oct. 1, 1894                            ARGUS

10-11-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            Mr. Nick Zahm is building a cellar under his dwelling house.
            Shulien & Wannemacher, of the Ottoville Mills, are loading their 100th railroad car with grain at Douglas this week for this season, besides shipping by canal several boatloads. Their business in the line of grain shipping is increasing largely every year.
            Ben. Wannemacher has struck the horse jockey line and is now driving the largest team in the township.
            Last Wednesday, Math. Kline and Anna Krebs were married at the church here. The young couple will reside on a farm 1½ miles east of town.
            Mrs. Eva Eicher, of Cincinnati, is visiting the Wannemacher family at present.
            Miss Dina Schlagbaum, of Cincinnati, is at the home of her parents.
            Walter Mersman is minus a fine new hat --- taken on the wedding night. He will not invite that kind of a guest hereafter.
            Mr. Carr, of Van Wert, experimented with a fire extinguisher at the Beckman Hotel on the wedding night. Such a thing he never seen before. He pulled on several points with no avail, finally turned it upside down, which is the move for an explosion. The result was a wet room and a bed for him to sleep in.

     Oct. 8, 1894                            ARGUS

10-18-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            Mr. Henry B. Langhals was probably fatally crushed under a heavy log last Wednesday morning. He resides in Jackson Township, on the base line. While a mile away from his home, with his two boys and a team, he was trying to pull a log up on a pile when the chain broke and the log rolled back upon him, crushing his ribs on one side and mashing his head badly. The team had to hitched to the log again to pull it from him. Dr. Clark was summoned to his aid. But little hopes are entertained for his recovery.
            Dr. Binder had a hot air furnace installed in his dwelling. It is made by the Shill Furnace Co., of Bucyrus, Ohio.
             Mr. Alex Heinle,  bartender at the Mersman Hotel, and Miss Dina Kortokrax were married last Thursday at the church here. They have our best wishes for their future life.
            Mr. Burt Galloway and wife and Mr. John Kray and family have moved to St. Mary’s, O.
             Lawrence Kramer, of Canton, Ohio, is here on visit to his brothers.

     Oct. 15, 1894                ARGUS

10-25-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            The new front of C. Wannemacher’s store arrived, though one of the large plate glass was broken. The damage, however, the shippers will have to make good, as it appears to have been caused by a nail driven in the outside frame.
            John Bohnholzer, of Ward County, North Dakota, is here visiting his parents and friends. He has been in the far west for 16 years.
            Frank Gminer bought a lot of Peter Wannemacher and has commenced to erect a fine dwelling house thereon.
            Jos. Otte and Ed. Wannemacher drove to Defiance with their families to visit friends at that place.
            A little child of August Hilvers died last Sunday morning.
            J. B. Mersman was away on business during last week.
            Otto Kotokrax and Jos. Sutter are gone to Seneca county.
            Dr. Page made his first professional visit to this village last Saturday. He has a number of chronic cases for treatment.
            Ferd. Krebs, of Leipsic, was here over Sunday.
            Mr. A. Sutter has a new boarder at his house.
 
     Oct. 21, 1894                ARGUS

11-1-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            Last Sunday first communion was received here by 85 children. The ceremonies were very impressive. The Ottoville Cornet Band and the Washington Township, Van Wert, Band discoursed some very excellent music for the occasion. There were a large number of people present from abroad. The church was filled to its utmost both in the fore and afternoon.
            Henry Ernst was smiling all over last Wednesday. It is a boy that has come to stay.
            Mrs. Sarah Giesken is building a fine dwelling house on her farm.
            Mr. J. B. Mersman had a large buffalo robe stolen from his barn last week.
            The eldest daughter of Henry Wurst is very sick with typhoid fever.

     Oct. 29, 1894                ARGUS


11-8-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            Last Thursday afternoon, Mary, the oldest daughter of Henry Wurst, died in her 16th year, and was buried Saturday. The funeral was largely attended by the young folk of this community.
            Henry Ernst was away to Bellevue to attend the funeral of his sister.
            Rev. P. J. Gillin, pastor of Lebanon, Illinois, and his youngest brother, were here last week, visiting their brother Nicholas Gillin.
            The smokehouse of Henry Trenkamp was burnt early Friday morning.
            Henry Schneider with his family moved to town.
            A number of our young folks took in the excursion last Saturday.

     Nov. 5, 1894                            ARGUS

11-29-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            At an early hour Monday morning death relieved Mrs. Maria Schmersale of her lingering suffering of consumption, aged 23 years. She was the oldest daughter of Nick Krebs. Her burial took place on Wednesday. She leaves a husband and one child to mourn her early death.
            We have just learned of the death of Joseph Barlage, a well known school teacher, late of Greensburg township. His funeral will take place this Monday afternoon at Ottoville, where his only relative, Mr. F. Vincke, is residing.
            Mr. Joseph Sutter is off for Seneca County, and will not come back alone, as he will be married at New Riegel this week.
            The new burglarproof safe for C. Wannemacher & Son has arrived and is placed in their new business house. The township safe has also arrived and is placed in the township hall.
                 Schulien & Wannemacher, proprietors of the Ottoville flouring mill, have contracted with C. Wannemacher & Son for an 8-ton wagon scale, with 22-foot platform.
            Mr. J. B. Mersman made a business trip to Piqua and Dayton last week.
            Dr. A. Page and his associate were here on the 20th inst. The Dr. makes a specialty of treating chronic diseases and rheumatism, and he had quite a number of patients here.
            A corps of surveyors and engineers stopped here over Sunday, making the preliminary survey for the proposed ship canal from Lake Erie to the Ohio River.
                 Married at the Catholic Church in this place last Tuesday, Mr. Wm. Matthews of Ottawa and Miss Barbara Fritche of Ottoville.
            On Wednesday Mr. John Winkelman and Miss Lizzy Zahm both of Ottoville, were married. A social dance at Gillen’s Hall was given in the evening. May their pathway be crowned with happiness.

     Nov. 26, 1894                ARGUS

12-6-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            Many prominent citizens of Greensburg Township and of Glandorf were here last Monday, attending the funeral of their late teacher, Joseph Barlage. His early and sudden demise is universally regretted by all who knew him. He was but 25 years old, and a very promising young man. He has no relatives in this country.
            Squire Unterbrink and wife. Of Greensburg Township, paid us a friendly visit last Monday. It is a grand treat to meet an old silver haired pioneer of old Putnam County. Hope to see them soon again.
            Frank Krebs dislocated his shoulder while taking a box from his wagon, last Wednesday. Dr. Clark set his arm and he is doing well.
            August Kortokrax is critically sick.
            Jos. Rieger left for Decatur, Indiana.
            Mr. H. H. Hilvers moved to town, to rest from the toils of his farm.
            John Wurst has moved into his new dwelling in Godham.
            The boys and Theodore Kramer had lots of music Thursday evening at his new house. It must have been his last day of single life.
            Jos. Sutter was married to Miss Wink at New Riegel, Seneca County, last Tuesday.
            Ferd. Wannemacher and Mrs. Nath. Harris took in the excursion to Cincinnati.
            Ben. Miehls bought 140 head of hogs in one and a half days, and shipped them Saturday at Ft. Jennings.
    
      Dec. 3, 1894                ARGUS

12-13-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
            An outbuilding on John Schumaker’s farm, two miles north of here, was destroyed by fire early last Tuesday morning. Loss of  $200 was covered by insurance.
            Andy Krebs, Charles and August Wannemacher have returned home this week, from the prairies of Illinois.
                 Sebastian Knepfle moved on the farm of J. B. Mersman, in the outskirts of this village.
            Mr. And Mrs. John Winkelman entertained a number of young folks Saturday evening. Those present were: Misses Lizzie Bedink, Susie Gergen, F.  and L. Zahner, Tillie Schulien, Fanny and A. Wannemacher, Mary Fishbach, Tillie Schirach, Katie Zahm, Mrs. Katie Lauer,  Messrs. G. Otte, G. Altenburger, John Zahm, Fr. Altenburger, Alex. Wannemacher, Math. Kramer, Jacob Wannemacher, and Alex Lauer. They were cordially treated and report a merry good time.

     Dec. 10, 1894                ARGUS

12-19-1894 DH
            Barney Miller, of Ottoville, became Jagged here today and got into Joe Baer’s ride instead of his own when he wanted to go home. The horse was a gentle one and hauled the drunk around through the alleys until the Marshal took charge of Miller and locked him up.
Death of Mrs. John Plescher
            After an illness with consumption for nearly a year, Mrs. John Plescher, nee Matilda Reckart, died this morning at 1:15 at the home of her sister, Mrs. Henry Beckman, on Scott Street. The deceased was 31 years old. The remains will be taken to Ottoville this afternoon to the home of her mother, Mrs. C. Reckart. The funeral will take place from Catholic Church in Ottoville Friday morning.

12-31-1894 DH
            Ottoville was a sort of rendezvous for Delphos people yesterday. The good skating on the canal was too much of a temptation and the boys could not stay at home.

12-27-1894 PCS
Ottoville Items
George Kemper lost his wallet one day last week while walking the railroad track between Muntanna and Huntstown, containing $13 and some valuable papers.
            Matilda Recker, the young wife of John Plesher, died on last Wednesday, after a lingering illness, of consumption, at the age of 31 years, and was buried last Friday.
                 Stephen Wannemacher, of Ft. Wayne Business College, and Rosa and John Wannemacher, of Ada School are at their homes to spend the holidays.
            The business house of Chas. Wannemacher & Son, is now in the hands of the painters, and will be ready for occupancy by January  1st.
            Mike Kruse, of Seneca County, visited here last week.
            Dr. Clark was thrown from his cart last Monday and broke a finger.

     Dec. 24, 1894                ARGUS

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