The Village Reporter - April 17th, 2024

million Americans were projected to be living in an area that would experience totality. Some of these cities included St. Louis, Dallas, Fort Worth, Cincinnati, Detroit, and Cleveland. Other major cities across the country were located within 200 miles of the totality zone, with those who lived there experiencing a partial eclipse.

Traffic was heavy in some areas, with many areas, including those in Fulton County, experiencing their traffic issues after the eclipse. Thankfully, local issues of gas stations, grocery stores, and phone lines being overloaded did not materialize. These issues were possible, and

Two hundred years ago this spring the county’s government was first organized, and an April 19 opening ceremony will kick off a series of events commemorating the Williams County 200 celebration. Following the opening ceremony will be Selfie Bingo on April 20 featuring landmarks around the

county, and an April 21 program at the Williams County Fairgrounds pavilion with an open house at the adjacent Williams County Historical Society Main Museum Complex. Planned for June 7 is a program recognizing all past and current Williams County Commissioners.

The bicentennial observance will continue throughout the summer in conjunction with the

county’s various community celebrations – including the Village of Pioneer’s 175th anniversary festivities – and will involve observances during the Williams County Fair this September.

Special Williams County 200 apparel is available, and a wooden coin will be available commemorating the bicentennial.

This celebration is being organized by the Williams County 200 Committee, with representatives

from local government, businesses and organizations, and historians.

Opening ceremonies are set for 1 p.m. April 19 at the Bryan Arts and Education Building Auditorium. Special guests include Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and Ohio Rep. Jim Hoops. Denver Henderson of the Williams County 200 Committee will emcee the program, and Local author and historian CONTINUED

Williams County, Ohio 200th Celebration

Don Allison will give a talk on Williams County’s formation and highlights of its two centuries of history.

Tours of the Williams County Courthouse, a National Register

special session of the County Commissioners commemorating the first meeting in 1824. Past and current Williams County Commissioners are to be recognized at that time.

A Williams County Bicentennial observation was initially planned for 2020, to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the county being established. The COVID-19 pandemic forced cancellation of these events, so this year’s celebration will recognize the formal organization of the county government four years later, in 1824.

When the county was first formally organized it was much larger than today. It included what is today Defiance County and part of Fulton County. Defiance County was formed and organized in 1845. A portion of Williams County was detached to be a part of Fulton County in 1850, resulting in today’s boundaries.

Residents of Williams County have been leaders in agriculture and industry, and have done their part in all U.S. wars from the War with Mexico through today.

Williams County was named for David Williams, one of the captors of Maj. John André, a British operative, during in the American Revolutionary War.

Noteworthy people from Williams County through the years have included Civil War hero and Medal of Honor Recipient William J. Knight of The Great Locomotive Chase fame; Isaac Sherwood, a Civil war general who went on to become editor of Scientific American magazine and longtime U.S. House of Representatives member; polar explorer Paul

Williams County 200th Events

April

19-21, 2024

Friday, April 19, 2024

Opening Ceremony 1:00pm - 2:00pm

Arts & Education Auditorium, Bryan

•Presentation of Colors/Pledge 1:00 - 1:10 (10 minutes)

•Welcome and Introductions (Henderson) 1:10 - 1:15 (5 mins)

•History (D. Allison) 1:15 - 1:20 (5 mins)

•Mayor Schlade 1:20 - 1:25 (5 mins)

•Rep. Hoops 1:25 - 1:30 (5 mins)

•Tim/Vance 1:30 - 1:35 (5 mins)

•Gov. DeWine 1:35 - 1:55 (20 mins)

•Closing Remarks (Henderson) 1:55 - 2:00

•Guided and Self-Guided tours of the courthouse will be available from 2:30 pm until 4:00 pm.

•Selfie Bingo

Saturday, April 20, 2024

Sunday, April 21, 2024

Closing Ceremony

Williams County Fairgrounds, Montpelier

•Presentation of the Colors/Pledge 2:00-2:10

•Welcome and Introductions (Henderson) 2:10-2:15

•Mayor Yagelski 2:15-2:20

•Commissioner Hilkert 2:20 - 2:25

•Congresswoman Kaptur 2:25 - 2:45

•Closing Remarks (Henderson)

•Williams County Historical Society Museum will be open

•Ice cream will be available.

Obituaries & Death Notices

Charlotte “Colleen” Bernath (1930 – 2024)

(1948 Graduate Of Fayette High School)

Charlotte “Colleen” Bernath of Archbold, Ohio went to her heavenly home on Thursday, April 4, 2024. Colleen was born on June 16, 1930 to the late Marion and Thelma (Watson) Ford and was one of three children. She grew up in the Morenci, Michigan area and moved to Fayette, Ohio in her high school years. She graduated from Fayette High School in 1948 and was chosen as the class valedictorian.

Colleen married the love of her life Daryl “Richard” Bernath in 1952. She worked in accounts receiving at Fayette Manufacturing for 13 years.

In 1965, she left the factory and went on to assist Richard with their dairy operation. Together, she and Richard maintained the family farm and dairy operation for most of their lives.

They celebrated 65 years of marriage together until he passed away in 2017. They had one daughter, Deb (Dave) Mignin.

Colleen was the full-time organist at the Fayette Methodist church from 1958 to 1994. She then became the full-time organist at the Archbold United Methodist in 1995. She was able to maintain her role as organist until Easter time of 2023.

Colleen was known for growing large vegetable gardens and was teased about raising enough produce for several families. She was best known for her cooking and her pies.

All of the immediate and extended family looked forward to eating her pies during holidays and family get-togethers. Many of the neighbors and men who occasionally assisted on the farm looked forward to her cooking.

Colleen felt blessed by her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren and enjoyed spending time with them. She and Richard enjoyed annual trips to many parts of the country, being sure to include her grandsons and daughter on many of these trips.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; her parents; and her brothers Marion Ford and Robert Ford.

She is survived by her daughter Deb (Dave) Mignin. She is also survived by two grandsons, Mike (Erin) Mignin, Highland, Illinois, and Kevin (Ashley) Mignin, Archbold, as well as five great-grandchildren: Maxwell, Margaret, Madison, Luke, and Leah; and sister-in-laws Mary Lou Ford of Kalamazoo, Michigan, and Mary Lou Ford of Waldron, Michigan.

A celebration of Colleen’s life was held at the Archbold United Methodist Church on Saturday, April 13, 2024.

Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to Cherry Street Mission Ministries or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Short Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements. www. ShortFuneralHome.com.

Carol Sharpes-Leininger (1935 – 2024)

(Member Of Pettisville Missionary Church)

Carol Jean SharpesLeininger, age 88, of Archbold, passed away Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at Ayden Healthcare of Wauseon. Prior to her retirement, Carol had worked for Brookview Farms, Home Saving and Loan and Gendron in Archbold.

Carol was born in Nelsonville, Ohio, on June 7, 1935, the daughter of Roy E. and Midgie (Conley) Wagner.

In 1954 she married J.R. Sharpes and he preceded her in death in 1991. In 1997 she married Arthur

member of the Archbold Business and Professional Women.

Surviving are her children, Jerry R. (Rhonda) Sharpes, II of Archbold, Teri Yedica of Archbold, Jeanne (Joe) Rupp of Archbold, Michelann Roth of Archbold, LeAnna (David) Cowan of Las Vegas, NV; grandchildren; David (Jessica) Sharpes of Montpelier, Josh Nichols of Montpelier, Jerod (Jennifer) Yedica of Archbold, Yedia (Lena) Yedica of Archbold, Amber (Michael) Miller of Napoleon, Jake (Alicia) Rupp of Archbold, Jessica Waites of Archbold, Eric (David) Roth of Flagstaff, AZ, Shannon (Zeb) Woodby of Archbold, Rebecca (Orrin) Bowers of Archbold, Dillon Cowan and BreAnna Cowan of Las Vegas, NV; great-grandchildren, Hayden, Kaida, Jayce, Landry, Makaela, Morgan, Zoe, Jocelyn, Drake, Harper, Clayton, Kaylyn, Ruger and Barrett. She was preceded in death by both of her husbands, parents, daughter, Robin Hawkins, sons-in-law, Ron Roth and William Yedica, two brothers, James and John Wagner, and sister, Nene Gilleon.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at the Grisier Funeral Home in Archbold. Interment will follow in the Archbold Cemetery.

The family requests that memorial contributions be given to St. Jude’s Children’s Research. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.grisierfh. com.

Lee Ann Hannold (1964 – 2024)

(Graduated From Bryan In 1983)

Lee Ann Hannold, 59, of rural Roann, Indiana, died at 2:15 a.m., Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. She was born on October 12, 1964, in Wabash, Indiana, to Vernon Kinzie and Beverley (Byers) Corwin.

Lee Ann grew up in Bryan, Ohio and was a 1983 graduate of Bryan High School, and attended International Business College in Fort Wayne, where she received an accounting certificate. She was married to Kevin Lewis. Lee Ann enjoyed working and playing on computers, going to casinos and was an avid Michigan State Spartans fan. She was a special friend to all and enjoyed organizing events and keeping in touch with her friends.

She is survived by her husband, Kevin Lewis of Roann, three children; Dawn (Alex) Paul of Charlotte, Michigan, Austin Hannold of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Blake Hannold of Charlotte; grandson, Robert Paul of Charlotte; and three brothers, Ladd (Alma) Kinzie of Medford, Oregon, Ken Kinzie of Bryan, and Michael (Gina) Fee of Baltimore, Ohio. She was preceded in death by her parents, and brother, Roger Kinzie. There will be a celebration of Lee Ann’s life at a later date. Arrangements by Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, Roann. Preferred memorial is Roann Covered Bridge Association c/o Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service. The memorial guest book for Lee Ann may be signed at www.grandstaff-hentgen.com.

Kristina Dwyer (1955 – 2024)

(Resident Of Bryan)

Kristina Dwyer, age 68, of Bryan, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 7, 2024, beside her dear friend, Beth Clark.

Kristina was a high school graduate of Urbana high school and a graduate of Wisconsin’s Beloit College, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Anthropology in 1997. Her education took her to work with archaeologist Tony DeRegnacourt in the early 2000’s. With Tony she tested sites prior to development around the Columbus area.

Additionally, Kristina worked as a certified caregiver in CRSI, a secretary for her husband’s company, a cashier for Dollar General in Bryan, and a typesetter at the Urbana paper, where many of her family members also worked.

Kristina was also a nature lover who appreciated kayaking, going on family vacations in Florida and Ontario, and turning her entire backyard into a garden with her husband.

Kristina Dwyer was born on August 29, 1955, in Champaign County, Ohio, the daughter of Melvin and Norma (Kohli) King.

Kristina met her husband, John B. Dwyer IV while working as a type setter for the Urbana paper and he preceded her in death on August 22, 1991.

Surviving is her son John B. Dwyer V; brothers Brian (Kim) King and Steve (Eileen) King; and many nieces and nephews. Kristina was preceded in death by her parents; infant sister; husband; John B. Dwyer III; Sally Dwyer; and special friend Tony DeRegnacourt.

According to Kristina’s wishes no services will be held at this time. Memorials may be made to the American Lung Association.

Condolences may be sent to and the online register may be signed at Krill Funeral Service

Fredrick “Freddie” Gambler, Jr. (1966 – 2024)

(Graduated From Montpelier High School)

Fredrick “Freddie” L. Gambler, Jr., 58, of Archbold passed away on Sunday, April 7, 2024 at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

He was born on March 23, 1966 in Montpelier to Fredrick L. and Rebecca (Lirot) Gambler, Sr. Freddie graduated from Montpelier High School.

He was formerly employed at Alex Products in Ridgeville Corners for many years. Freddie enjoyed watching sporting events, especially basketball and football. He loved taking care of his place and being around his pond.

He is survived by aunts, uncles, and cousins. Freddie was preceded in death by his parents.

Services were held on Saturday, April 13th, 2024 at the Thompson Funeral Home in Montpelier with Pastor Rick Dye officiating. Interment followed at Riverside Cemetery in Montpelier.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Williams County Humane Society. Condolences can be left for the family at www.thethompsonfuneralhome.com.

(Member Of Wauseon’s Trinity Lutheran Church)

Pamela Henry Baltzly, age 71, of Wauseon, Ohio passed away, Friday, April 05, 2024 in CHP Defiance Area Inpatient Hospice following a brief struggle with cancer. She was born on June 12, 1952 in Bellefountaine, Ohio to the late Willard and Virginia (Schwab) Henry. Pam was a graduate of Wauseon High School (1970) and Capital University (1974) with a certificate to teach English and speech.

She also earned her master’s degree from the University of Toledo in guidance and was a guidance counselor at Wauseon High School for over 20 years.

She married William Vaughn Baltzly, also a Capital University graduate, on January 07, 1977 in the chapel of Trinity Lutheran Seminary. He survives.

She was a lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Wauseon, Ohio. Pam was involved and served in many capacities in the church.

In her retirement she enjoyed reading but most importantly, loved spending time with her family and grandchildren, traveling to Colorado, Tennessee, and Texas for visits.

Survivors include her husband, Vaughn, and her children, Bryan (Colleen) Baltzly, of San Marcos, Texas, and Sarah (Joshua) Mendez, of Arvada, Colorado. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Iris MylesBaltzly and Addison, Leah and Josie Mendez. She also has two step-grandchildren, Orrin and Eleanor Hiner. She is also survived by her older brother Gregory (Mary Ann) Henry, of Nashville, Tennessee.

Pam is preceded in death by her parents, infant brother, Martin Henry, and brother Scott J. Henry.

Friends may call for a time of visitation with the Baltzly family on Thursday, April 18, 2024, 2:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., at Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home, Wauseon, Ohio. Funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, April 19, 2024 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Wauseon, Ohio, with Rev. Ashley Rosa-Ruggieri officiating. Private interment will precede the funeral service in Bayes Cemetery, Wauseon, Ohio. The funeral luncheon will be served in the church fellowship hall immediately following the funeral services. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Trinity Lutheran Church, Wauseon, Ohio. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to: Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home, Wauseon, Ohio.

Monna Loveless (1934 – 2024)

(Member Of Montpelier Moose)

Monna J. Loveless, age 89, of Pioneer, Ohio passed away on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at Evergreen Manor Care Center where she had been a resident.

Monna worked as an assembly operator at the Aro Corporation. She was a member of the Montpelier Moose and Bryan Eagles #2233.

Monna J. Loveless was born August 16, 1934, in Rochester, Indiana, the daughter of Howard F. and Charlotte (Bunn) Clay. She married Roy J. Loveless on August 22, 2001 in Angola, Indiana and he preceded her in death on January 31, 2023.

Monna is survived by her daughter, Honey (Roy Stevenson) Stier, of Bryan, Ohio; son, KC (Cheryl) Livensparger; grandchildren, Darby (Chad) Hildebrandt, Trevor (Heather) Marzolf, of Kenova, West Virginia, Shane (Haley) Livensparger and Mitch Livensparger, both of Jacksonville, Florida; great grandchildren, Cole and Blake Marzolf, Finley Davis, Bennett and Landon Livensparger; sister, Artis Gilcher of Montpelier, Ohio and brother-in-law, Don Weisz. She was preceded in death by her parents; first husband, Gerald. E. Livensparger; second husband, Roy J. Loveless and sister, Sharon Weisz.

A private service will take place with inurnment at Riverside Cemetery in Montpelier at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Krill Funeral Service, 860 West Mulberry Street, Bryan, Ohio.

The family requests that any memorial contributions be directed to the Williams County Humane Society.

To sign the online register or to send condolences, please visit http://www.krillfuneralservice.com.

Alec Cassaubon (1990 – 2024) (2009 Graduate Of Bryan High School)

Alec R. Cassaubon, age 33, of Bryan, Ohio, passed away on Friday, April 5, 2024, at his residence. Alec worked in equipment maintenance and repair at Lexicon in Fremont, Indiana. He had attended Life Changing Church, enjoyed World War II history in books and movies, traveling, fishing, shooting, being outdoors- as long as it was warm, and was an avid Detroit Lions fan.

Alec was born on August 16, 1990 in Toledo, Ohio, the son of Kevin Cassaubon and Patti (Simpson) Huffman. He was a 2009 graduate of Bryan High School.

Alec is survived by his son, Aiden of Grayling, Michigan; mother, Patti Huffman, of Columbus, father and step-mother, Kevin (Angela) Cassaubon, of Grayling; brother, Brandon Cassaubon, of Bryan; step sister, Shelby Vine, of Fayette, Ohio; nephew, Evan Cassaubon, of Bryan and grandmother, Betty Cassaubon, of Bryan.

He was preceded in death by his fiancé, Danialle Swan; paternal grandfather, Ken Cassaubon; paternal grandmother, Carol Flick and maternal grandparents, Don and Ann Simpson.

Visitation for Alec will be held on Thursday, April 18, 2024 from 3:00-5:00 P.M. at Krill Funeral Home, 860 West Mulberry Street, Bryan, Ohio. A memorial service celebrating Alec’s life will be held immediately following with Pastor Chris Combs officiating.

Memorials may be made to the family and/or a Go Fund Me https://gofund.me/c1abed6a to set up a trust fund for Aiden.

Condolences may be sent to and the online register may be signed at http://www.krillfuneralservice.com.

Diane Flory (1944 – 2024) (Pioneer Resident)

Diane Alta Flory, age 79, of Pioneer, Ohio, passed on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at home surrounded by her family after a long illness.

Diane worked at Custom Fit and Manta Ray for many years. She enjoyed riding horses and was a member of the Hillsdale County Mounted Posse. She also enjoyed camping, gardening, sewing and woodworking.

Diane was born on April 17, 1944, in Hillsdale, Michigan, the daughter of John and Myrna B. (Osmun) Ash. She married Kerry L. Flory on June 7, 1993 in Bryan and he survives.

Diane is also survived by her daughters, Cynthia (Horr) Henderson, of Montpelier, Tuesday (Horr) and husband, Ted Brown, of Hillsdale, Dawn Horr, of Pioneer and Jon (Horr) and husband Jack McLain, of Hillsdale; stepchildren, Amy Flory, of Bryan and Michael Flory, of Zebulon, North Carolina; 11 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren and sisters, Janet (Ron) Green, of Fremont and Vivian (Bill) Knapp, of Melbern, Ohio. She was preceded in death by her parents, John Ash, and Myrna Ball; in-laws, Jeanne, and Joseph Flory; stepson, Jeff Flory; brother, Russell Ash and sister, Jean Rink.

A gathering to celebrate Diane’s life will be held at a later date at Eastland Baptist Church in Bryan. Krill Funeral Service, 860 West Mulberry Street, Bryan has been entrusted with Diane’s services. She will be laid to rest at Frontier Cemetery, Hillsdale, Michigan. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to the American Cancer Society. Condolences may be sent to and the online register may be signed at www.krillfuneralservice.com.

Evelyn “Ducky” Witzerman (1927 – 2024)

(Retired From Edgerton Local Schools)

and a 1948 graduate of Frankin College. Evelyn married Elvin M. Witzerman on June 20, 1948, and he preceded her in death on December 8, 2001.

Ducky retired from Edgerton Local Schools in 1992, after serving 20 years as the high school librarian, and prior to that, worked as an English teacher at Edon High School.

Ducky was a member of the Bryan First Presbyterian Church. She was active with the Fortnightly Study Group, and part of the “Hookers” Hook Rug Crafters. Ducky also enjoyed playing the piano in her free time and she loved her dogs.

Ducky is survived by her two sons, John (Joan) Witzerman of Bryan, and James (Marcia Stanley) Witzerman of Shelby Township, Michigan; and a daughter-in-law, Beverly Nolt of Cookeville, Tennessee.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Elvin; one son, Robert Witzerman; her sister, Lisbeth Francis and her brother-in-law, Dr. Robert Francis.

Private graveside funeral services for Evelyn P. “Ducky” Witzerman were held on Friday, April 12, 2024, in Shiffler Cemetery, Bryan, with Pastor Leonel Pech officiating. Arrangements are under the care of Oberlin-Turnbull Funeral Home, 206 North Lynn Street, Bryan.

Memorial contributions can be directed to the Bryan First Presbyterian Church, 506 Oxford Drive, Bryan, Ohio, 43506, or the Forest E. Witzerman Memorial Community Fund, through the Bryan Area Foundation, P.O. Box 651, Bryan, Ohio 43506.

Condolences may be sent to the family or memories may be shared at www.oberlinturnbull.com.

Michael “Mickey” Oyer (1953 – 2024) (1971 Graduate Of North Central High School)

Michael “Mickey” R. Oyer, 70 of Montpelier passed away on April 8, 2024 at the Community Hospitals and Wellness Centers in Bryan. He was born on May 8, 1953 in Montpelier to Dale R. and Mary E. (Frisbie) Oyer. Mickey graduated from North Central High School in 1971 and soon after married Patti L. Kreischer on November 25, 1972 in Montpelier. Patti was the love of Mickey’s life and she preceded him in death on July 29, 2021.

Mickey entered the workforce soon after his graduation and worked his entire career at Powers and Sons in Montpelier.

He worked there for over 30 plus years as a lead man, but many would say he knew and could run any machine in the facility. Mickey was a man of many talents and kept busy doing side jobs as a carpenter, plumber, electrician, and mason.

He also enjoyed gardening, ice fishing, woodworking, especially during the Christmas season and just being outdoors.

He will be remembered for his cooking abilities and how his huge campfire breakfasts were some of his most memorable meals. Mickey was a member of the Montpelier Eagles.

He is survived by two daughters; Kelly (Kevin) Cummins of Alvordton and Kim (Keith) Lehsten of Pioneer; five grandchildren, Jessi (Garrett), Mike (Shailynn), Alex (Leanna), Emily and Sami; two siblings, Danny (Barb) Oyer of Pioneer and Judy (Joe) Hug of Edon. Mickey is preceded in death by his parents and wife Patti.

Mickey will be buried in a private family ceremony at Floral Grove Cemetery in Pioneer with Dr. Dan VanArnsdalen to officiate.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.

Steve “Coaster” Oberlin (1951 – 2024)

Marilyn Janice Boyd, 74, of Bryan, Ohio and formerly of Lakewood, Ohio passed away Monday, April 8, 2024, at Evergreen Healthcare Center, Montpelier.

Marilyn was born August 19, 1949, in Lakewood, Ohio, daughter of the late Leonard Robert and Mary Janice (Bidlingmyer) Boyd. She was a 1967 graduate of Lakewood High School and continued her education at The Ohio State University, where she graduated from the Business College.

Marilyn worked as a stockbroker for over 25 years. She loved animals, especially horses. She enjoyed horseback riding and volunteered at the local humane society.

Surviving are her two sisters-in-law, Jackie Boyd of Bryan, Ohio and Nancy Boyd of Tucson, Arizona; three nieces, Lauren (Eric) Boyd-Bulakowski, Amy (Evan) Brock, and Tracy Herrera; two nephews, Christopher Boyd and Robert Boyd. Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, David Boyd, and Larry Boyd.

To honor Marilyn’s wishes there will be no public visitation or services held at this time. The family will hold a private celebration of life at a later date. Inurnment will be made at Brown Cemetery, Bryan. Arrangements are in the care of Oberlin-Turnbull Funeral Home, 206 N. Lynn Street, Bryan.

Memorial contributions can be made to Williams County Humane Society, 09464 County Road 13, Bryan, Ohio 43506.

Condolences may be sent to the family or memories may be shared at www.oberlinturnbull.com

Steve J. “Coaster” (Kocis) Oberlin, age 72, of Butler, Indiana and formerly of Edgerton, Ohio, passed away on Monday, April 8, 2024, at The Laurels of DeKalb in Butler. Steve had been a machinist at Hillsdale Tool and had previously worked at Robinaire. He was a graduate of Edgerton High School and a veteran of the US Army.

VETERAN

Steve enjoyed restoring old cars and building models of cars, planes and trains.

Steve was born on October 2, 1951 in Hicksville, Ohio, the son of Albert J. and Evelyn (Monroe) Kocis.

He is survived by his sister, Christene (Marlin) Entenman, of Edgerton and Charlene McCarty, of Belpre, Ohio and brother, Michael McCarty. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Mitchell McCarty.

There will be no visitation or services. Krill Funeral Service, 114 East Hull Street, Edgerton, Ohio has been entrusted with his arrangements. He will be laid to rest at Maple Grove Cemetery, Edgerton.

(Formerly Of Edgerton)

Robin Chapa (1961 – 2024) (Resided In Liberty Center)

Robin Lynn Chapa, age 62, of Liberty Center, with her loving family by her bedside, was welcomed into the hands of her Lord, Wednesday evening, April 10, 2024 at St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center in Toledo.

She was born in Wauseon on April 21, 1961 to the late Francis Foote and Virginia (LaPoint) Foote. Robin graduated from Liberty Center High School in 1978 and later received her certificate of medical assisting from Northwest State Community College.

On June 5, 1982 she was joined in marriage to Juan M. Chapa, who survives. For many years she served as a medical assistant (MA) with the doctor’s office of Dr. Kip Bidwell in Liberty Center.

Robin enjoyed traveling and animals of various kinds, especially polar bears. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family and grandchildren.

Left to cherish Robin’s memory is her husband of 41 years, Juan Chapa; sons, Steven (Ashley) Chapa of McClure and Jarrod Chapa of Columbus; sisters, Sheryl Leininger, Karen (Emil) Gunther, and Marsha (Stan) Helminiak; brothers, Ronald Foote and Dennis (Kim) Foote; grandchildren, Riley Chapa, Brady Chapa and Cassidy (Joseph) Lewis and many loving nieces and nephews that shared her love.

Friends will be received from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM on Friday, April 19, 2024 at Barnes Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 5825 St Hwy 109 in Delta. A funeral service celebrating Robin’s life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at Shiloh Christian Union Church, 2100 Co Rd 5, Delta, Ohio 43515. Pastor Chuck Whitmire will be officiating. Interment will follow at Shiloh Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing a show of sympathy may make memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1942 in her memory.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through our website at www.barnesfuneralchapel. com.

Michaelle Bible (1967 – 2024)

(Member Of Montpelier Eagles Auxiliary)

Michaelle Sue Bible, 56, of Montpelier, Ohio passed away on April 2, 2024 at her home. She was born on April 6, 1967 in Van Wert, Ohio. Michaelle graduated from Bryan High School. She married James Bible, and he survives.

Michaelle worked for a time at Quadco and then as a cashier for McDonalds in Montpelier. She was also a member of the Montpelier Eagles Auxiliary.

Michaelle is survived by her moving husband, Jim Bible; two foster brothers, Bob (Pam) Dawson of Defiance and John (Shirley deceased) Dawson of Walla Walla, Washington; brother-in-law, Marty Bible of Colorado; numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her foster mother, Veda Dawson, and foster sister Mary Dawson.

Ronald

Huffman (1957 – 2024)

(Formerly Worked For Bryan Truck Lines)

Ronald P. Huffman, age 66, of Perrysville, Ohio, passed away Thursday, April 4, 2024, at Kingston of Ashland, in Ashland, Ohio. Ronald had worked for Cowen Truck Lines, Inc., in Perrysville, Ohio and Bryan Truck Lines. He was born in Valparaiso, Indiana on July 18, 1957, the son of David C. Huffman and Marjorie J. (Huffman) Olmstead.

He attended the former Living Word Fellowship Church, near Stryker, Ohio, and the former Wauseon Evangelical Mennonite Church in Wauseon (now Crossroads Evangelical Church).

Ronald had many interests, including the classic Batman, the old version of Godzilla, WWE Wrestling, his favorite was Bill Goldberg. He spent many hours at Charlie Browns Pancake and Steakhouse Restaurant in Speedway, Indiana.

He was a huge Indy Car fan and enjoyed NASCAR. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway was one of his favorite places and would look forward to the month of May at the track. He had many friends that worked there.

He enjoyed detailing cars in Laramie, Wyoming and sponsored a bowling team. He was generous with everyone and was always giving. He Loved everything purple! He also collected watches, glowin-the-dark rings, Hot Wheels, T-shirts, die cast race cars and eyeglasses and sunglasses.

Surviving is his mother, Marjorie J. (Huffman) Olmstead of Wauseon; brother, Alan (Brenda) Huffman of Mansfield, Ohio, sister, Rosalyn (James) Zent of Greenwood, Indiana, brother, Kevin (Ann) Olmstead of Wauseon; and nieces and nephews, Joel (Kristin) Weber, Amy (Jim) Buchhop, Tiffany (Joe) Sauder and Ben Olmstead.

He was preceded in death by grandparents, William, and Rosa Huffman; Enos and Olga Burkholder; father, David Huffman; stepfather, Kenneth Olmstead; brother, Calvin J. Huffman; sister, Sharon K. Arps; brother-in-law, Tom Arps, nephew, Michael D. Weber and nephew, Zachary M. Olmstead.

A funeral service was held on Friday, April 12, 2024 in the Chapel at Crossroads Evangelical Church in Wauseon, with Pastor Dan Allen, officiating. Interment followed in the Wauseon Union Cemetery.

The family requests that memorial contributions be given to Crossroads Evangelical Church. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.grisierfh.com. Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home in Wauseon has been entrusted with services.

Sally Lynn (Nijakowski) Chandler, age 48, a devoted wife, sister and beloved aunt, passed away Saturday evening, April 6, 2024, at The Toledo Hospital. She was born August 28, 1975, in Wauseon, Ohio to Richard and Linda (Thornton) Nijakowski. Sally was a 1994 graduate of Sylvania Southview and worked in the deli department at Walmart. Known for her vibrant personality, Sally had a deep passion for attending concerts, cuddling with her cats, indulging in movies, and shopping.

Her energetic spirit led her to always be on the go spinning her wheels, seeking new experiences, and making the most out of life.

Among Sally’s proudest accomplishments was cherishing quality time spent with her niece and nephew. She valued family above all else and leaves behind a legacy of love.

Sally is survived by her beloved husband of 17 years, Michael; stepson Jonathan Chandler; granddaughter Lillian; sister Candy (Andrew) Tucker; niece Bella Tucker; nephew Andrew Tucker; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her stepfather George Thornton, her mother-in-law Jennie Garber, father-in-law James Chandler, and grandparents, Richard, and Mary Ann Nijakowski.

Visitation was held on Friday, April 12th at the Weigel Funeral Home in Swanton. Interment will follow at a later date next to her father Richard at St Richard’s Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family.

Dorothy Brown (1929 – 2024)

(Lifetime Member Of Montpelier Eagles)

Dorothy A. Brown, 94, of Montpelier passed away Sunday, April 7, 2024 at the Defiance Inpatient Hospice Center.

She was born on July 26, 1929 in Pioneer, Ohio to Arthur “Bill” and Helen “Ione” (Murray) Warner. Dorothy attended Kunkle High School.

She married William “Bill” Brown in 1948 and he passed in June of 2017. Dorothy was a devoted farmer’s wife and enjoyed gardening, word searches and doing puzzles.

She was a member of the Montpelier Moose for over 50 years and a life member of the Montpelier Eagles.

She is survived by a son Dan Brown of Alvordton; five grandchildren; one step grandchild; numerous great and great-great grandchildren; two sisters and one brother.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; husband; daughter, Vickie; daughter in-law Deb Brown; and two brothers. A private interment will be held at Riverside Cemetery in Montpelier. Memorial contributions can be made to the Williams County Humane Society. Condolences can be made at www.thethompsonfuneralhome.com.

Sally Chandler (1975 – 2024) (Born In Wauseon, Ohio)

Local Hometown News

CONTINUED FROM THE FRONT PAGE

Ribbon Cutting Held For Sauder Village ...

well as ramping up traditional crafts. Latham also explained that a significant portion, approximately 50%, has been dedicated to the arts and crafts made onsite at Sauder Village.

The other 50% is made up of souvenirs dedicated to Sauder Village, toys, candy, consignment items, and more. A special section even exists for campers who stay at the village.

“Everything in here makes sense to our mission. We are really wanting to make sure our craft people are highlighted. We are even doing more with signage to highlight the craftspeople and show who they are,” added Latham.

Assistant Manager of the Museum Store Donna Smith and Retail Manager of the Museum Store Karen Irelan also had words to say as it per-

tains to their excitement for the store.

Karen stated “It was very exciting. In the beginning, it was nerve-racking trying to get everything in order. But as time went on and I started to see everything happen, excitement started to build at that point.”

“One thing after another took place and it all started to come together. You are never too old to learn, and we have

Police, EMT, Fire, Traffic & Court News (Continued)

•304 S Walnut, medical

•BCH ER to UTMC, transfer

•21747 Co Rd M, medical

•12853 Co Rd D, pi accident

•617 N Walnut, medical

•214 Enterprise, trauma

•BCG ER to Parkview Regional, transfer

April 10th

•226 S Main, trauma

•TP MM 7, unknown emergency

•1433 N Main, trauma

•5842 SR 15, allergy

•20216 Co Rd I50, medical

•BCH ER to Parkview Regional, transfer

•BCH Telemetry to Parkview Regional, transfer

•503 E Wilson, trauma

•BCH ICU to 16433 Co Rd 20, transfer

•213 E Bement, unconsciousness

•US 6/550, pi accident

•BCH ER to UTMC, transfer

•18730 Co Rd M, convulsions

•Williams County, stand by

•BCH ER to Parkview Regional, transfer

•522 W Bryan, heart problem

WILLIAMS COUNTY FIRE

April 6th

•S/20, field fire

•SR 107/8, disabled vehicle

•6366 SR 107, controlled burn

April 7th

•402 E Main, structure fire

•1490 West, mutual aid

April 8th

•7673 Co Rd D, controlled burn

•339 Fairview, fire

•1812 Magda, alarm

•9366 Co Rd I, hazmat

•10603 SR 107, controlled burn

•US 20/SR 49, pi accident

April 9th

•204 E Catherine, illegal burning

•12200 S Bird Lake, structure fire

April 10th

•US 6/550, pi accident

•10426 Co Rd 5, controlled burn

•14411 Co Rd M, controlled burn

MONTPELIER POLICE

April 5th

•334 ½ Empire, citizen assist

•400 W Main, littering

•13508 SR 15, harassment

•1418 Maplehurst, 911 hang up

•221 Empire, sex offense

•W Main/S Monroe, well-being check

•1007 Delaware, telephone harass-

ment

April 6th

•401 Hickory, miscellaneous

•107 E Main, well-being check

•104 W Washington, agency assist

•13402 SR 15, civil

•13469 SR 15, lockout

•801 Maplehurst, B&E

April 7th

•13454 SR 15, disorderly

•E Main/Lincoln, traffic offense

•1444 Whitaker Way, assault

•1030 E Main, department info

•Main from Fairgrounds, traffic offense

•1242 E Madison, medical

•SR 107/Whitaker Way, traffic offense

April 8th

•1100 E Main, disorderly

•201 Second, animal problem

•13113 Co Rd M50, fraud

•1242 E Madison, medical

•1430 Whitaker Way, fraud

April 9th

•213 E Lawrence, civil

•1210 E Main, disabled vehicle

•315 Broad, traffic offense

April 10th

•1015 E Brown, juvenile

•108 W Wabash, pd accident

•201 Second, telephone harassment

•301 E Water, stray animal

•431 W Wabash, telephone harassment

PIONEER POLICE

April 5th

•208 Village, trauma

April 6th

•400 Baubice, alarm

•600 S State, investigation

April 7th

•1091 Lake Shore, unruly child

•US 20/SR 15, agency assist

April 9th

•105 Church, well-being check

•905 S State, drugs

April 10th

•201 Ohio, 911 hang up

STRYKER POLICE

April 5th

•606 Beech, lockout

•500 S Defiance, traffic stop

April 6th

•3151 Co Rd 2425, wanted person

•640 S Defiance, found property

April 8th

•208 Elm, well-being check

April 10th

•400 S Defiance, mental problem

•S Defiance/RR Crossing, blocked

RR

WILLIAMS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

April 5th

•14896 SR 49, unwanted person

•7236 Co Rd P50, pd accident

•324 Dublin, fraud

•3838 Co Rd C60, fraud

•15/K, pd accident

•9034 US 127, suspicious

•US 20/725, agency assist

•18803 Co Rd 150, deliver message

•24669 SR 34, traffic hazard

•16182 Co Rd G, civil

•21/I50, custodial

•SR 15/E, agency assist

•C/9, suspicious car

•5352 Co Rd 2350, well-being check

•14896 SR 49, traffic hazard

•D West of 9, vehicle in ditch

April 6th

•4028 Co Rd H, keep the peace

•13673 Co Rd E, suspicious car

•11405 Co Rd E, 911 hang up

•10397 SR 34, citizen assist

•640 S Defiance, lockout

•418 N Michigan, juvenile problem

•18749 Co Rd 15, weapon offense

•13677 Co Rd 17, suspicious car

April 7th

•101 Hogan, suspicious car

•SR 576/SR 34, traffic hazard

•111 S Michigan, domestic dispute

•5571 SR 15, animal problem

•Williams County Fairgrounds, juveniles

•6695 SR 15, juvenile problem

•116 Bay, civil

•14850 Co Rd R, weapon offense

•402 E Main, structure fire

•106 E Main, attempted arson

April 8th

•E/15, vehicle in ditch

learned lots.”

Donna followed up with, “When they approached me about taking the position I was retired. Because of that I was hesitant but saw it as a challenge. I saw it as the opportunity to transition from a gift shop to a museum store that supports the mission, purpose, and education of what Sauder Village is all about.” “We also had a lot of fun rearranging the store, taking all the craft items, and displaying them on walls. I am very excited with how it has turned out. Seeing the finished project has been very rewarding and has been very exciting.”

•3849 Co Rd 3, trespassing

•208 Elm, well-being check

•7150 Co Rd 13, property damage

•14896 SR 49, suspicious activity

•14367 Co Rd I, found property

•SR 15/H, suspicious car

•US 20/SR 49, pi accident

•2324 Co Rd F, unknown emergency

•4637 Co Rd 1575, theft

•10242 Co Rd 1950, agency assist

•507 Madison, 911 hang up

•14896 SR 49, weapon offense

•2903 US 127, pi accident

April 9th

•US 6/20, pd accident

•8247 US 127, pd accident

•US 20/SR 576, pd accident

•US 6/9, traffic hazard

•4441 SR 576, pd accident

•US 20 between 7/8, sick animal

•1425 E High, theft

•12116 SR 34, investigation

•6950 US 127, pd accident

•H/9, medical

•3485 Co Rd D50, neighborhood problem

•5G/6, property damage

•5768 SR 15, trespassing

•12853 Co Rd D, agency assist

•22/SR 34, pd accident

•14553 SR 49, citizen assist

April 10th

•306 S Michigan, unwanted person

•335 N Main, citizen assist

•US 6/6, sick animal

•18221 Co Rd 17F, suspicious car

•A/16, suspicious car

•4548 SR 576, trespassing

•14553 SR 49, citizen assist

•SR 49/D50, 911 hang up

•6695 SR 15, 911 hang up

•349 Lake, property damage

•6854 Co Rd J, wanted person

•10633 Co Rd F, theft

•4878 Co Rd 2050, 911 hang up

•19027 Co Rd 15, weapon offense

•US 6/550, agency assist

•6295 Co Rd 12, 911 hang up

•4548 SR 576, suspicious activity

WEST UNITY POLICE

April 5th

•205 W Jackson, found property

•125 Shire Crest #103, medical

April 7th

•111 N Main, medical

•501 E Church, juvenile problem

•109 E Catherine, noise complaint

April 8th

•121 Lynn, domestic dispute

•106 Taylor, well-being check

•121 Lynn, well-being check

April 9th

•121 Lynn, well-being check

•204 E Catherine, illegal burning

•308 E North, keep the peace

•204 E Jackson, traffic offense

April 10th

•Alley behind 201 N Lincoln, unsecure premise

•SR 191 N/B from G, traffic offense

WILLIAMS COUNTY TRAFFIC

•Gray, Dara M (Montpelier) 72/55 speed. Costs: $79.00 Fine amount: $46.00

•Buehrer, Keith A (Fayette) lanes of travel. Costs: $79.00 Fine amount: $46.00

•Lyons, Michael E (Pioneer) 60/50 speed. Costs: $85.00 Fine amount: $40.00

•Altaffer, Nicole

(Bryan) improper start/back. Costs: $79.00 Fine amount: $71.00

The newly renovated Museum Store at Sauder Village is open and ready to serve. Now is the time to head on over and check out what the store has to offer.

•Finol Lopez, Fray B (Bryan) temp. inst. permt. Costs: $79.00 Fine amount: $100.00; 79/55 speed. Costs: $40.00

WILLIAMS COUNTY CRIMINAL

•Burger, Ashlee (Montpelier) theft. Defendant plead guilty, Defendant found guilty; costs: $90.00 Fine amount: $250.00

FULTON COUNTY TRAFFIC

•Durant, Roxann (Swanton) 69/55 speed. Costs: $100.00 Fine amount: $37.00

•Spranger, Sela (Delta) seatbelt. Costs: $56.00 Fine amount: $30.00

•Pezzin, Phyllis L (Swanton) 69/55 speed. Costs: $100.00 Fine amount: $37.00

•Pedersen, Freda S (Delta) 69/55 speed. Costs: $100.00 Fine amount: $37.00

•Garbers, Jacob F (Wauseon) 64/50 speed. Costs: $100.00 Fine amount: $37.00

FULTON COUNTY PROSECUTOR

The following individuals were sentenced in the Fulton County Common Pleas Court according to the Fulton County Prosecutor’s Office.

• Christopher Honsberger, 33, of Archbold, Ohio, previously pleaded guilty to Improperly Handling Firearms in a Motor Vehicle and Aggravated Possession of Drugs. He knowingly transported a firearm in a motor vehicle in such a manner that the firearm was accessible to the operator, and he possessed Methamphetamine.

Judge Scott A. Haselman sentenced Mr. Honsberger to 3 years of community control and ordered him to pay prosecution costs and courtappointed counsel costs, pay a $450 fine, stay out of bars/taverns, not possess or consume alcohol, abide by an 10:00 pm. to 6:00 am. curfew, not to possess or consume THC/ Marijuana, even with a medical Marijuana license, obtain a valid driver’s license, be held at CCNO until a bed is available at the SEARCH Program, successfully complete the SEARCH Program, and any recommended aftercare, complete a dual diagnosis treatment assessment, and successfully complete any treatment and any aftercare, and serve 15 days in CCNO, with credit for time already served. Failure to comply could result in Mr. Honsberger spending 6-18 months in prison for Improperly Handling Firearms in a Motor Vehicle, and 6-12 months in prison for Aggravated Possession of Drugs.

• Mary R. Cox, age 50, of Delta, Ohio, previously pled guilty to Attempted Theft from a Person in a Protected Class. According to the Fulton County Prosecutor's Office, Ms. Mary R. Cox did attempt to obtain or exert control over the property of another. Judge Scott A. Haselman sentenced Ms. Mary R. Cox to 5 years of community control. He ordered Ms. Mary R. Cox to serve 5 days in CCNO with credit for time served; pay prosecution costs; pay restitution in the amount of $21,000 to the victim; successfully complete the Court’s Cognitive Behavioral Therapy program; have no contact with the victim; consent to suspicionless searches by the Adult Probation Department; not be permitted to serve as a caretaker to anyone while on community control.

Ms. Mary R. Cox received credit for 5 days served in jail.

Failure to abide by these conditions could result in Ms. Mary R. Cox serving 6-18 months in prison.

Maumee Valley Planning Provides Update On Block Grant Project List

By: Anna Wozniak

THE VILLAGE REPORTER

anna@thevillagereporter.com

The Williams County Commissioners met last week on Tuesday and Thursday in regular session. Tuesday began around 8 a.m. with an update from the Board of Elections, with it being shared that the board is having to find $100,000 for license renewal fees.

There has been some miscommunication, as it was noted that they had a year to pay off the balance but have just gotten a letter announcing notice of late payment.

This renewal process takes place every five years, and discussion was held on setting time aside to go over the details of the agreement previously in place to solidify what needs to be paid.

It was then discussed that most poll workers are older, and that more will need to be looked at for hire in the next five years.

Discussion was held on how the number of people that vote has decreased before the commissioners entered into recess. They came back at around 9 a.m. to pass two resolutions, as well as sign the Prosecutor’s Office credit card expenditures for April, the minutes for their April 4th meeting, and the bills as presented.

At 10 a.m., the preliminary hearing on Ditch 744 started, with Commissioner Rummel recused due to owning land in the watershed. The details were discussed, and the estimate for the project came back in excess of $300,000.

It was shared that after analysis during the most recent rainfall, engineer Brian Fritsch is recommending that this

ditch be taken under maintenance instead of rebuilt entirely. Maintenance for the ditch is estimated at $81,000, with an annual cost of around $5,000.

Ed Nickolite then shared that they don’t see the economic value in clearing the right of way access for $81,000.

Rummel then shared that, as a citizen, he has spent a lot of time, research, and money into pattern tiling, having spent nearly $35,000 for pattern tiling to remedy drainage problems faced by the farm he owns on the watershed. He voiced his support for the $81,000 maintenance project over the $300,000 reconstruction project.

Dave Thompson shared that beavers in the area keep worsening the problem, with efforts having been made to destroy multiple dams causing overflow.

He shared that either course of action would be a waste of money “until something is done with the beavers that reside in that ditch.”

Dan Drake added that because the area is in the floodplain, an extensive project would be needed to ensure that water does not back up, as there are multiple water sources contributing to the issue.

Sydney Ebersole shared that the beavers in the ditch have been the main issue, sharing that much of their land has been underwater for two months at a time.

They shared that they began the petition and agreed that the option to put the ditch under county maintenance seemed like the best solution.

Thompson shared that in October, it was discussed that the beavers should be hunted

before the dam was removed to prevent the issue from recurring.

The dam was busted, but the beaver repaired it overnight. Seven beavers were trapped from the area, but the dam was rebuilt after being broken again.

The dam has also been removed with a backhoe, but the beavers continue to rebuild it. Will Ebersole shared that the beavers have since stayed in one location since corn was removed from surrounding fields, and Thopson shared that the ODNR should be contacted to take care of the issue with the beavers.

It was discussed that if the ditch were to be put under maintenance, the dams would be removed as reported or sighted at inspection.

Conversation was then had on the beavers being nuisance animals, with those in the area

planning to provide permission for hunters to eliminate them.

Right of way access parameters were then discussed before a motion was made to move this petition on to its final hearing. Plans were made for the commissioners to receive costs on removing obstructions and putting the ditch on permanent maintenance. Thursday saw the general session beginning at 9 a.m., beginning with the approval of four resolutions, the Dog Warden reports through April 5th, a construction exemption certificate for the 2024 asphalt program, alternate assignment notices, the minutes from Tuesday, and the bills as presented. Sheriff Kochert came in to share the details of a training program necessary for investigating electronic devices. The commissioners told the Sheriff to write them a letter asking for the funds so that they may formally approve it.

A sealed bid was then opened for the Edgerton North Oak Street project, with both being within 10% of the estimate. The plans were sent to the Engineer’s Office for further review so that a recommendation may be made as to which proposal to accept.

Mikayla Mueller and Dennis Miller from Maumee Valley Planning were there for the bid opening and stayed to give an update on the CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) project list.

Developing a list by priority in case of awarded funds was discussed, with it being shared that they would like to make sure all project plans are on pace as to avoid any project delays.

Commissioners Hilkert, Rummel, and Westfall then discussed the creation of a County Administrator. All surrounding counties already have one, and the position would provide some consistency for the departments under the commissioners as elections see changes in leadership.

It was agreed that the idea was good, and necessary for the growing responsibilities seen under the county’s workload.

After agreeing to move forward with the process of hiring a County Administrator, the Williams County Commissioners adjourned for the week. This week’s resolutions: 24-0143: supplemental appropriations; 24-0144: awarding the Asphalt Spot Paving bid; 24-0145: supplemental appropriations; 24-0146: JFS IV-E contract; 24-0147: Williams County EMS credit card application; 24-0148: established the timeline for researching the solutions for Ditch 744.

Tour Of Honor To Pass Through Pioneer & June Meeting Date Rescheduled

By: Anna Wozniak

The Pioneer Village Council met on Monday, April 8th, at 7 p.m. Present were councilors Trever West, Will Cable, Randy Cochran, Dean Frisbee, Joseph Nikloy, and Ben Fiser alongside Fiscal Officer Gina Gruber, Pioneer Mayor Edward Kidston, Village Solicitor Tom Thompson, and Village Administrator Anthony Burnett.

After the minutes from the March 11, 2024 meeting were approved, the bills, financial statements, and a Hometown HDWR invoice for $845.03. Police Chief Tim Livengood shared that the department’s old radios will be donated to the Williams County Engineer’s Office, Fire Chief Swank shared that there were 28 calls since the last meeting, with 92 to date. Paint samples for the new fire truck have been approved, and lithium battery awareness training in Montpelier was attended by the fire department to bring awareness to the severity of the fires involving new lithium car batteries.

The chief then thanked Jason, for his work at the Arnold’s World Strongest competition in Columbus. Administrator Burnett shared that there have been five new building permits given out, and the village is close to running out of yard bags. Unable to find more,

the bags will be discontinued once supplies run out.

The Tour of Honor has selected Pioneer as one of the stops along their country-wide tour, in honor of the veteran’s memorial in the park.

This will see motorcyclists stopping to take pictures at the sites along the tour, with Pioneer being selected as one of the few sites in Ohio along the route. The local American Legion is working with the village to determine how to best prepare for the tour.

The generator for the Clark Street pump project was started last week, with the most recent payouts and details being finalized.

A lot split was then approved by way of motion to make a larger yard for a future resident on the east side of the village.

Fiscal Officer Gruber shared how well a recent conference in Columbus went before handing out a timeline for the 175th celebration, with Facebook posts soon to be shared with the times and dates.

She then shared that the June meeting should be moved due to a conference in Sandusky, with council agreeing to move the June meeting from June 10th to Tuesday, June 18th, at 7 p.m.

Councilor West shared that there is a major sight issue on Cedar and Mulberry Street going east due to apartment parking.

Mayor Kidston shared that they would work to resolve the problem as the streets are redone, and that if the issue is still not remedied, they will address the issue after.

Councilor Cable shared that he has been asked about trees on State Street, with the mayor sharing that they are looking at a program to help facilitate the planting of trees in the village. It was recommended that the Tree Committee meets to plan out this program.

Cable then reminded Mayor Kidston of the discussion on the assistant fire chief, with the mayor sharing that discussion will take place at the next meeting.

Mayor Kidston shared that the next couple of months will see some annexations to the village, and that there has not yet been word of the solar grant, with news expected soon on whether the village qualifies for grants, loan forgiveness, and tax credits for the project.

The substation is ready to bid, and some environmental research is being done on the land currently, with the mayor sharing that he would like to, “without spending a lot of money,” put out bids on the materials necessary for the solar field so that they may be prepared for the process in case of grant award.

The north 40 acres is not to be farmed, with a plan to maybe put a bid out to farm the southern 38.5 acres.

The mayor also shared that next

month’s meeting should see conversation on the laying of fiber optic cables throughout the village.

Mayor Kidston then detailed that the Cedar Street project has been extended until 2025 due to not receiving any bids, and after the extension, the project saw a few bids, meaning that the project should be completed by November of 2025.

They then approved five ordinances and two resolutions on their first readings after a suspension of the rules for each before entering executive session at 7:38 p.m., set to meet next May 13, 2024, at 7 p.m.

The executive session resulted in the approval of a memorandum of understanding with regards to K9 handler compensation for Pioneer Police Department Officer Randy Mills.

Ordinance 10-2024 approved amended appropriations. Ordinance 11-2024 approved the improvement and reconstruction of East Dearborn Street for new curbs, storm drainage, sidewalks, and waterline replacement, with Ordinance 12-2024 doing the same for Cedar Street. Ordinance 13-2024 authorized the sale of village property, and Ordinance 14-2024 authorized easements for AMP Transmission, LLC. Resolution 106-2024 adopted new rental fees for the Pioneer Community Center, and Resolution 107-2024 consented to the annexation of property.

For more than 30 years, Rosemary Fisher’s day job has been as a registered nurse and, more recently a nurse practitioner.

However, she has also had a passion for missions and has used her nursing skills to participate in medical missions to six African countries as well as in the Dominican Republic. She goes to villages that have underserved health needs and are unreached by established churches.

Local pastors request the medical clinics and assistance that comes with it. In fact, she recently returned from a mission where she was part of a four-person medical team.

During a typical medical mission, she said the team may serve as many as 2,000 people. Their most common health problems are malaria, typhoid, and worms – issues caused by a lack of clean water and poor sanitation.

Therefore, even before the medical team arrives, the organization that she works with makes arrangements to build a well that will provide clean water for drinking and domestic use along with a latrine.

Fisher said the well and latrine make a lasting impact to improve the villagers’ physical health. With that need met, a non-profit 501(c)3 public charity that Fisher founded called Momentum in Missions focuses on the villagers’ spiritual health.

She explained that the pastors who had requested the mission often serve several villages-predominantly in rural areas where trails are frequently more common than roads.

While completing the medical

Short Meeting Produces Updates On Several Projects

clinics, her group looks for ways that will help the pastors evangelize and start churches. As a result, Momentum in Missions now funds a program to give pastors motorbikes so they can more easily cover their area.

The group is also starting to provide micro loans designed to teach and help the pastors develop a source of sustainable income. Most methods somehow involve agriculture, for example: raising goats.

In some areas, the group has provided pastors with projectors and other equipment that allows them to show villagers a film about Jesus. The film has been produced in dozens of languages, so each pastor receives a film in their native language.

In other areas, Fisher’s group has provided funding that allows the pastor to broadcast a weekly radio program to reach a wider au-

dience. This spring, Rosemary and her husband Vern Fisher plan to start a business - The Outreach Coffee Company, a mobile drink bar that will serve a wide variety of coffee drinks, teas and more. A portion of sales will go to Momentum

progress from being made, with high water levels slowing construction down. The question was raised whether or not further conversation has been held with ODOT on making the east bound outside lane going right-turn only.

PHOTO BY ANNA WOZNIAK / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

EQUIPMENT DONATION … Pioneer Police Chief Tim Livengood was granted permission to donate equipment no longer used by the department to the Williams County Engineer’s Office.

Council Looking For Donations To Create Police K-9 Program

By: Jacob Kessler

VILLAGE REPORTER jacob@thevillagereporter.com

Fayette Village Council

members held their meeting on Wednesday, April 10th. The meeting began at 6:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer.

Approved first were council meeting minutes from April 3rd, along with Safety Committee meeting minutes from the same day.

With no visitors present wishing to speak, council heard from Mayor Borer as he gave his report, with the following items being read.

The Garden Club is still selling their cookbooks for $15. At this time the number of books left has fallen to 15. The next CDC meeting will be held on Monday, May 6th at 6:00 p.m. at the school.

The next Board of Education meeting will be held on April 15th at 6:30 p.m. The Bull Thistle 5K Run will take place on May 25th at 8:00 a.m.

Recycling will be held on April 28th from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. down at the old white barn. Some traffic jams took place in town as everyone was leaving the area for the eclipse. The next one will be overhead in 2099.

Applications were accepted for a new Utility Billing Clerk until April 12th. Pickleball nets have been put up and turnpike tolls are now open. The Opera House will be featuring their Down Home at the Opera House show on April 27th at 7:00 p.m.

The administrator’s report came next with the first item discussed being in reference to Phase 1 of the water project. Bryan Excavating continued to move down South Gorham Street with water mains being installed on connecting roads.

Park Directors have begun their work in preparation for the coming season. This work will include painting dugouts, repairing, and painting bleachers, and more. An ethics meeting was attended back on April 2nd with real-life issues in an office setting being discussed. The administrator’s report was then approved by council before moving on to hear the VFO’s report.

One item on the agenda pertains to the ODOT Road Salt agreement. Twenty-five tons were applied for last year, with 50 tons being applied for this year.

Another item coming up is in regard to Arcadis and the need

to apply for another $27,000.00 to finish out the charge. Lastly, Utility Clerk Mat Johnson’s resignation was included in the council’s packet, with the finance director’s resignation coming in a future meeting. The VFO’s report was then approved by council before moving on to hear the police report.

Assistant Chief McConnell spoke to council about the Safety Committee that took place the week before. During that meeting a presentation was given by Chief Bingham regarding the need for a new K-9 position in the department.

The dog itself is being donated by the Buckeye Area Regional K-9 Program out of Medina, Ohio. The hope of department members is for council to create the program, which in turn allows Fayette to get on the list for the dog.

The dog would be a puppy and would need an officer to travel to Medina every Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to Noon until its training is complete. A retrofitted cruiser will also be needed once the dog reaches the appropriate age for police work. This however will not happen for around a year after the dog is born.

Sgt. Wehrly also spoke to

council about the program and informed council of the department’s intention to pay for the program with fundraisers.

Different options have been looked at for fundraising, with donations already being offered by local community members.

Sgt. Wehrly himself said he is willing to donate a cage for the dog that will work until it becomes fully grown.

McConnell also informed council of department numbers, which have been increasing significantly over the past several months. This is in addition to the increase police have been seeing when it comes to drug activity in the area.

Council then moved to approve the police report, before moving on to hear Mat Johnson’s resignation letter read aloud.

It was then that council moved to approve the following items. The first reading of Resolution 2024-02 authorizing participation in the ODOT Road Salt Contracts awarded in 2024. A motion to move forward with the establishment of a K-9 Unit, dependent on fundraising.

A motion to allow the administrator to apply for a supplemental OWDA planning loan of $27,000.00 for Phase II of the water project.

METAMORA VILLAGE COUNCIL

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Council Passes Third Reading Of Marijuana Ordinance

By: Jacob Kessler THE VILLAGE REPORTER jacob@thevillagereporter.com

The Metamora Village Council held their meeting on Monday, April 1st. The meeting began at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance and approval of the previous meeting’s minutes.

Council first moved to recognize visitors Steve and Stacy Kessler, who were in attendance to discuss their recently purchased property.

Attached to the pair’s property is an alley that had been vacated by the village. It is listed on the deed but there is no legal documentation showing this, with any paper trail possibly being initiated back in the early 1900s.

It was said that more research would be done on this matter and that if no documentation is found, an emergency

ordinance will be completed.

The mayor’s report followed, with a motion being put forward to send letters out to residents to inform them of operation clean-up, as well as to pay the postage for these letters.

The topic of grants came next, with it being stated some OPWC grants are available that cover up to 90% of old infrastructure. A list of projects will be gone through to decide which one has the best chance of being awarded the grant.

The fiscal officers report followed next, with council moving to approve the Third Reading of Ordinance 2024-04 prohibiting adult-use cannabis operators, adult-use cultivators, and adult-use dispensaries from operating within the Village of Metamora, Ohio.

The rules were then suspended by council in order to

pass Ordinance 2024-05, requesting the county auditor provide required tax levy information and declaring an emergency, in one reading.

Rules were suspended once more to pass Ordinance 202406, to amend 2024 appropriations during fiscal year ending December 31st, 2024, and declaring an emergency, in one reading.

Next, a motion was put forward, which was approved, to enter into an agreement with Walter Drane Co. for codified ordinance updates from 10/17/2022 through 12/27/2023, with replacement pages and online updates being received.

Reports of vandalism in village parks were discussed next. Plexiglass was broken on the display board and the top of the playground equipment was off.

Discussion took place regarding the purchase of new cameras with no decision being made at this time. Council then moved to approve the bill list before moving on to old business, with the following motions being made and approved by council.

A motion to hire Overhead Doors for repairs to the maintenance shop doors in the amount of $1,320.00. A motion to purchase bases, a pitcher’s mound, and a chalker for the ball diamonds from Game One in the amount of $945.00.

With leftover money budgeted for ballpark equipment, approval will be gained for a food permit to sell hot dogs in the concession stand.

A motion to rent a port-apotty for the park during the months of April and May. A motion for village maintenance

workers to repair the wooden floor in the office that has rotted from moisture.

A motion to purchase carpet for the office from Bowerman Carpet in the amount of $498.15. A motion to purchase a sewer camera from Infratech Solutions for $8,100.00.

Moving to new business, the door to the recycling center will be open from April to November and the Memorial Wall Dedication Ceremony will be held on Sunday, June 9th

The PUCO electric aggregate program needs to be resigned every two years. A motion was put forward to complete this which was approved by council.

Lastly, zoning items put before council were approved, before moving to adjourn at 8:49 p.m. The next council meeting will be held on April 15th at 8:00 p.m.

Johnson spoke to council regarding a tobacco cessation project for the CDC. Part of a grant being looked at, needs the CDC to approach council and ask about preventing tobacco in the parks, or the allowing of CDC members to place signs in the park asking people to not use tobacco on the grounds.

discussion will follow.

PHOTO BY JACOB KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER K-9 PROGRAM … Sgt. Wehrly speaks to council about the department’s desire to implement a new K-9 program.

Pulaski Garden Club Learns About Pot Gardening

The Pulaski Garden Club meeting had 19 members present at Pulaski United Methodist Church. Members answered roll call with a new plant they would like to try this year.

Appreciation was made to Joyce Mocherman for her last meeting’s program “Care of Gardening Tools” several members found that sharpening pruners and shovels made garden work a lot easier.

Last month’s minutes were read by Secretary Connie Simmons and Treasurer Kay Beck updated finances. President Regina Partee set a date to cleanup flower beds at the Fair grounds, and club voted to provide flowers to plant around the Bell Tower. It was noted that the Daffodils are a good show at this time. Club members met at the fairgrounds on March 29th at 1:00 p.m. to spring clean beds. The door prize provided by Joyce Paepke was won by Becky Hill.

JoAnn Beucler shared coupons for “Garden Gate” magazine. And Joyce Mocherman brought a huge selection of gardening magazines to share.

Barb Deetz and JoAnn Beucler were asked about their Junior Garden Club. The club meets during June & July, every Thursday. For more information contact Barb at 419-551-5738.

Deetz brought our arrangement titled “Pot It Up”. She noted that she started with a traditional design including daffodils and snake plant and greenery. By rearranging

By: Anna Wozniak

anna@thevillagereporter.com The Millcreek-West Unity Local Board of Education met at 6 p.m. on April 8, 2024. Present were Dawn Layman, Heather Jones, Brian Wieland, Randy Mahlman, and David Chester.

After the pledge of allegiance, Superintendent Jim Wyse shared that a countywide assembly will be taking place the morning of May 7, 2024 for the 7th through 12th grades.

The assembly, taking place at Bryan High School, will see former NBA player Chris Herren speak on making good choices with regards to substance abuse. He continued by giving the NEOLA policy update its first reading, then moving on to touch on the failure of the March substitute levy, and asked the members of the

the flowers, she was able to present a creative arrangement, mostly by grouping all the daffodils together.

Cathy Sharp’s program was “Container Gardening”. Why a container garden? Ask yourself if you have space for flower beds, if you rent, will you be moving, you can put pots anywhere and they can be moved to be seen better or into the sun/shade.

Plants are contained, can use almost any container, or any plant, easier to control weeds, harvest, or brought inside during the winter.

Containers need good drainage, like growbags, clay, ceramic, plastic pots, wooden boxes, barrels, baskets, anything you want. Plastic pots dry out slower than clay and can be left outside during winter. Drainage holes should be 1/4 inch in diameter or for larger pots larger holes, but this could allow the soil to drain thru.

Use a screen, coffee filters or rocks in the bottom of the pot to prevent leakage. If using a large container, use fillers to lighten the weight. Fillers like small, inverted pot, milk cartons, cans, bottles, or Styrofoam can be used.

Cathy had a plant lifter for heavier pots, or a two wheeled cart if you want to move your pot. Fruits and vegetables will need 6-8 hours of sunlight.

Containers dry out quicker, so do the 2” test to see if plants need water. There are self-watering systems including wicking and water cones and there are irrigation systems “RainBird” available. And

board to seek community input on the placement of a levy on the November ballot. Mr. Riley shared the March Students of the Month, who were listed as follows: Gyllyan Proper, Leo Cullis, Ariana Fuller, Ian Hansen, Alaina Russell, Brennan Dempsey, Devin Dempsey, Cameron Shimp, Brooklyn Kuszmaul, Ainsley Severance, Nathan Matz, Adaleia Moore, Savanah Westfall, Sophia Crossgrove, Tina Dickinson, Libbie Baker, Anthony Pelland, Kenley Routt, Aryan Shaffer, Eloit Flaugher, Kason Rediger, and Riley Clendenin. Riley announced that Hilltop High School has earned the Momentum Award from the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce for the 2022-23 school year.

State testing began last week, with testers coming to school at 8 a.m. on days they have classes, and 10 a.m. on days without.

The following dates will see

the use of polymer gels (Polyacrylamide or PAM) to provide moisture.

Fertilizing, read the label. There are slow-release fertilizers, liquid fertilizers to use at least twice a month, or adding fish emulsion or compost.

Pests/Diseases, same as plants in your garden, controlled with sticky traps, water spray, insecticidal soap, horticultural oil.

Cathy keeps ivory soap and water for aphids. If squirrels, cats, or deer seem to move your pots around, push a landscaping anchor pin, or rod, or stick through the bottom of the pot, and into the ground, Enjoy.

Peggy Miller spoke on the succulent of the month - Kalanchoe. There are over 125 varieties and are native to Madagascar and Africa.

Most popular is the Kal-an-cho Blossfeldiana; because they have such bright colored flowers with big fleshy leaves with scalloped edges which hold moisture, making it drought tolerant.

They come in red, white, yellow, pink, and orange. They do not have a smell, but they bloom for 2-3 months straight.

Best grown in clay pots in bright indirect light, direct light can burn their leaves. Not enough indirect light can make the plant leggy or spindly. Set in the east or west window in the winter and a west or south window in the summer.

They grow best in cactus or succulent potting mix and water about every 10-14 days. Let water run out the bottom, don’t let them sit in water and dry out totally before you water again.

Overwatering leaves will get dark spots, and those leaves can be taken off. If not getting enough water leaves will look wilty and limp. Can fertilize once a month, and once flowers are gone, cut off the spent ones to the next leaves. Can set outside in the summer with only morning sun. Butterflies and bees are attracted to them. The plant can propagate by stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. In Chinese culture they are associated with good luck and prosperity.

After two very informative speakers, we enjoyed refreshments provided by Sandy Oberlin and Cam Miller with fellowship time. The next meeting of the Pulaski Garden Club is May 7 at 6:30 p.m. at the Pulaski Methodist Church.

the following grades coming in at 8 a.m. for testing: April 30May 1: Math for 7th and 8th grades, testing for Algebra I and Geometry students; May 2-3: Science for 8th graders and testing for Biology students.

Eden Mahlman and Kyle Rivas were congratulated for qualifying for the State FCCLA Skills Competition in Columbus, and Shannon Spires was congratulated on representing the State of Ohio in Chicago at the National BPA Leadership Conference.

On lazy weekend mornings or when entertaining a crowd, it may be more fitting to serve brunch rather than breakfast or lunch. Brunch enables guests or family members to sleep in a little later. Plus the filling combination of menu items can keep people satisfied until dinner later on in the evening.

The recipes for "Farmhouse Skillet" from "Lord Honey Traditional Southern Recipes with a Country Bling Twist" (Pelican Publishing) by Chef Jason Smith, puts together a blend of savory ingredients into an egg casserole that can be a winner on any brunch table.

FARMHOUSE SKILLET SERVES 8-10

1 pound bacon, diced

2 cups cubed cooked ham

1/2 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled

1 small purple onion, diced

1/2 red bell pepper, diced

1/2 yellow bell pepper diced

10 eggs, beaten

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 20-ounce package frozen shredded hash browns, or tater tots, thawed

Salt and ground black pepper to taste

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Preheat oven to 350 F.

In a very large cast-iron skillet (12-inch or larger), over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Then add the ham and sausage and stir.

Add the onions and peppers, and sauté for 5 minutes, always stirring.

In a small bowl, whisk the eggs and heavy cream.

Stir the hash browns into the skillet, and add salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 5 to 8 minutes, until hash browns start to brown. Remove from heat. Add the egg mixture, top with cheese, and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is melted.

On April 26th, 7th through 11th grade students will participate in Career Day, with the 12th graders participating in Senior Next Day. This year’s prom is being celebrated on April 27th. Dinner is to start at 6 p.m., with the dance itself planned to span from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m., with an “Olympics” themed assortment of activities being held at the school for post prom. Mr. Mansfield shared that kindergarten registration and screening revealed that the incoming kindergarten class will be quite sizable, with it being expected that more students have yet to be registered still. Mrs. Rupp, Mrs. Horton, Ms. Pursel, Mr. Drewes, Mrs. Gerig, Dr. Eckhardt, Mrs. Welling, Mrs. Kuney, and Mrs. Gamboe were thanked for their efforts on the registration.

Third grade tutoring has been going well, with Mrs. Tule and Ms. McCann thanked for their efforts. Melvin Adams, former NBA player and Harlem Globetrotter came in earlier that morning to speak to the elementary students. The 84 students who made the honor roll with the end of the third quarter were congratulated, and May 6th and 7th will see Breakfast with Buds for Grandparents Day, with the mobile dentist soon to visit, the kindergarten class

A Brief History Of Earth Day

Earth Day is celebrated each April and draws attention to a range of issues affecting the environment. Earth Day aims to raise awareness in the hope of inspiring change.

Earth Day is observed on April 22. According to National Geographic, the first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970. Wisconsin senator Gaylord Nelson was inspired to begin a national celebration uniting the environmental movement after witnessing environmental activism in the 1960s. With the help of Denis Hayes, a graduate student at Harvard University, Nelson organized the first Earth Day. Twenty million people participated in events across the United States and strengthened support for environmental legislation like the Clean Air Act and the Endangered Species Act.

Earth Day was expanded to a global initiative in 1990 under guidance from Hayes. Nearly 200 million participants in more than 140 countries now join together in the name of protecting the planet. Awareness continues to be raised each year regarding renewable energy and climate change.

One of the hallmarks of Earth Day celebrations is the planting of trees. Researchers estimate roughly 15 billion trees are cut down each

year across the globe. By planting a tree every Earth Day, people can make a difference. Trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen and bolster ecosystems for wildlife. Shade trees can reduce reliance on fans and air conditioning systems. The main message of Earth Day 2024 is the need to commit to ending reliance on plastics, says EarthDay.org. The goal is a 60 percent reduction in the production of all plastics by 2040. Plastics are

bad for the environment a growing body of research indicates they have an adverse effect on the major systems of the body, including immune, respiratory, digestive, and hormonal systems.

Everyone can do their part to promote the ideals behind Earth Day. For 54 years, millions of people have been advocating for change to benefit the planet and human and animal health, and that fight is ongoing.

Fun & Educational Ways To Celebrate Earth Day

Earth Day is an annual holiday that has been celebrated since 1970. Despite somewhat humble beginnings, much of the globe now celebrates Earth Day, which this year takes place on Monday, April 22.

Earth Day has long drawn attention to issues affecting the planet and its climate. The effects of those issues have grown increasingly noticeable in recent years, which makes this Earth Day and all subsequent celebrations an ideal opportunity to celebrate the planet while learning about the many challenges it faces in the years to come. The following are some unique, fun, and educational ways to celebrate the planet this April.

•Leave the car at home. Winter weather is a distant memory by late April in many places, making Earth Day an ideal time to travel by foot or by bicycle instead of by car. That’s not only fun, but also a great opportunity to learn about carbon emissions. The United States Environmental Protection Agency reports that a typical passenger vehicle emits about 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide each year. Vehicles also emit a substantial amount of methane and nitrous oxide. This is why gas-powered vehicles are so often linked to climate change, much of which is driven by greenhouse gas emissions. A car-free Earth Day can be fun and serve as a catalyst for conversation about the effects of gas-powered vehicles on the health of the planet.

•Volunteer with a local environmental organization. Environmental organizations are committed to the ideals behind Earth Day all

year long. However, each Earth Day many of these organizations sponsor eco-conscious efforts to help the planet and raise awareness about issues like climate change. Volunteering with a local beach or park cleanup or signing up to walk and raise money for a local environmental charity makes for a fun and educational way to spend your Earth Day.

•Get your hands dirty and plant. The National Forest Foundation notes that planting trees can have a profound and positive impact on the planet. According to the NFF, planting more trees helps forests to sequester carbon, which can have a significant effect on climate change. The NFF estimates that 100 mature trees can remove 50 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent and 430 pounds of pollution from the atmosphere. Even if you cannot work with a local forestry organization to plant more

trees in a nearby forest, planting native trees on your own property can help combat climate change.

•Involve children in your efforts to combat climate change. Today’s adults likely won’t be the ones forced to confront the more challenging consequences of climate change. Unfortunately, that cost is likely to be passed on to future generations. That makes this Earth Day a great time to involve kids more directly in efforts to combat climate change. Explain the significance of avoiding the car, volunteering, or planting trees in terms that kids can understand, emphasizing that the future of the planet could very well be in their hands.

Earth Day takes on greater significance each year as the effects of climate change become more noticeable. This year the holiday can be celebrated in various ways that are both enjoyable and educational.

Understanding Climate Change & How It’s Affecting The World Today

The term climate change has become part of the modern lexicon. The term global warming was once widely used, but the term climate change became more common after researchers discovered that the changes affecting the planet involved more than a rise in temperature.

WHAT IS CLIMATE CHANGE?

Climate change refers to longterm shifts in weather patterns and temperatures, according to the United Nations Climate Action. Although natural forces, such as natural disasters, can affect climate change, by and large the most prolific influencer has been human behavior, notably the use of fossil fuels. NASA says burning fossil fuels increases heat-trapping greenhouse gas levels in the Earth’s atmosphere, raising the overall surface temperature of the planet.

SIGNS OF CLIMATE CHANGE

Scientists already are seeing evidence of the effects of climate change. NASA says loss of sea ice, melting glaciers and ice sheets, rising sea levels, and more intense heat waves already are occurring. Additional notable and evident effects of climate change include:

•Glaciers are melting at a faster rate.

•There is less snowpack in mountain ranges and polar regions.

•When snow is present, it melts faster.

•Permafrost is melting, releasing methane. This is a powerful greenhouse gas that rises into the atmosphere and compounds the climate change problem.

•Sea ice in the Arctic Ocean and around the North Pole is melting at a faster rate. Data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicates ice covering the Arctic Ocean has diminished by more than 40 percent since the start of the satellite era in 1979.

•Tropical storms have become more severe as a result of warmer ocean water temperatures.

•Sea levels are rising, threatening coastal communities and ecosystems. The NOAA reports that, in

2022, global average sea level set a new record high of 101.2 mm. That is four inches above 1993 levels.

•In many coastal locations around the United States, the rate of sea level rise is even higher than the global average due to erosion, oil and groundwater pumping, and subsidence.

•High-tide flooding is now between 300 and 900 percent more frequent than it was 50 years ago.

•The ocean is storing the majority of excess heat from rising global temperatures, contributing to measurable shelf retreat and stress on marine life.

The more individuals understand about global climate change, the more they can do to help combat it.

Did You Know? The Link Between Carbon Dioxide & Climate Change

Carbon dioxide and the climate are inextricably linked, and the relationship between CO2 and climate change is one of the causations. According to NASA, carbon dioxide in the atmosphere warms the planet, and that warming is causing climate change. Human activities, particularly those of the last two centuries, have done much to contribute to rising global temperatures. NASA reports that the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has increased by 50 percent over the last 200 years, a sharp increase that scientists credit to human activities. The National Ocean and Atmospheric Association notes that burning fossil fuels, releasing chemicals into the atmosphere, reducing the amount of forest cover, and the rapid expansion of farming, development and industrial activities are the human activities responsible for the rapid rise in CO2 emissions over the last two centuries. Supporting efforts to curb those activities and urging legislators to do the same are two ways individuals can help to reverse this alarming, harmful trend.

Environmental experts continue to see evidence that the planet is likely to warm by two degrees Celsius by 2050, which would mean that the world would fail to uphold the Paris Agreement. In 2015, the Paris Agreement called for keeping the increase in climate change temperatures well below 2 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels and pursuing efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change predicted that the world would likely warm up to 2 degrees Celsius by 2050 only under a highemission scenario. However, findings published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences in January 2023 suggested a higher likelihood that 2 C will be reached under the low scenario compared with the IPCC AR6 (Sixth Assessment Report). But it doesn’t rule out the possibility of avoiding 2 degrees Celsius if the low scenario is achieved. According to Carbon Brief, which provides information on energy and climate news, presently the world is not close to being on track to meet targets to keep global warming below 2 degrees Celsius. If emissions are not rapidly reduced, scientists believe the world will likely exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius between the years 2030 and 2032. The 2 degrees Celsius threshold likely will be exceeded in 2043.

Downtown Roads Discussed With Relation To Community Events

CONSIDERATION … The West Unity Village Council shared their concerns with closing down the main road for events, and, after discussion, disapproved an October event and approved a November live nativity. Discussion was held on wanting to make sure that community events are held off of the main roads as much as possible.

By: Anna Wozniak

THE VILLAGE REPORTER anna@thevillagereporter.com

The West Unity Village Council met at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 11th. Present were councilors Dave Short, Nathan Massie, Terri Lewbowski, Stephen Marvin, and Kevin Grey.

Alongside them were Fiscal Officer Sarah Higdon and Mayor Don Leu, with Village Administrator Joshua Fritsch and Police Chief JR Jones in attendance as well.

After the pledge of allegiance, council greeted Jason King, who requested permission for a downtown vegetable market. Potentially, the market would see a sidewalk stand, erected by Mill District Deli, that would run from May until early October.

The Deli would manage the stand and collect the money from the sales, with the goal to facilitate fresh food in the community, as well as “spur community involvement.”

Approval was granted for the idea, with discussion held on wanting to be sure the stand did not conflict with any other downtown businesses.

He also discussed getting permission for two street fairs, one on October 5th, and the other a live nativity on November 16th. The October 5th event would be much like the successful chili cook off, and the live nativity would see a lot of communal involvement.

Discussion was held on the feasibility of shutting down the roads for these events, with traffic always being a concern.

Permission was not given for the October 5th event, as a result of not wanting to close the road. The live nativity would be running from 4-7 p.m., and after discussion was held on the typical hours of the businesses downtown, council moved to approve the plans.

A lot issue was then discussed, as a previously plotted map would leave a private lot without road access. Approval was requested for the sale of land so that the driveway may accompany the lot legally.

Discussion was held on the authority of council to approve the lot split and sale of land, and a motion was made approving the sale contingent on Law Solicitor Mark Hagans’s approval.

A drainage issue off of South Main Street was then discussed, with it being shared that there was an issue with a property at a higher elevation causing drainage to flow into the resident’s garage. To resolve the issue, the resident channeled the excess water to the road.

After a while, he was told that he was unable to direct the water to the road, and as a result, looked into the legal reasoning as to why this was disallowed.

He shared his concerns over the legal use of village property, and asked for evidence of the ordinance that allowed Joshua Fritsch to work with the village without living within village limits.

As to the use of the property, it was argued that the lease didn’t cover the first year of the land’s use, with the village sharing that it was a verbal agreement at the beginning of the purchase.

He asked as to the legality of the land not being out for bid in 2021, and asked as to whether there were crops on the land at the time it transferred ownership.

The mayor shared that there was no lease agreement made at the beginning of the village’s ownership of the land, and so there was a non-verbal agreement made. It was shared that a request was made to the auditor to look into the legality of this agreement.

Resolution 4-2024-5, which authorized a then and now purchase order after a suspension of the rules on its first reading for a raised billing software rate.

Ordinance 2024-4, which requires landlords to report tenant information to the Tax Commissioner was given its second reading.

Resolution 4-2024-6 renewed the village’s annual road salt contract with ODOT after a suspension of the rules.

Fritsch shared that he has been trying to fill the open water / waste-

water operator position, and that Bryan Excavating will be coming next month to work on the Church Street Waterline Project.

Fritsch then shared that he will be being advised on how to conduct the water rate study, and that Strait-Line Fencing has finished the batting cage, minus the roof, which should be here soon.

The driving cones that were stolen have been recovered, and the thief caught with a trail camera. Watson Well Drilling cleaned Well 2 and installed a new drop pipe and well pump.

One of the pumps was from 1939, with the other thought to be from the late 1950’s. It was recommended that the village look into replacement wells for the 1939 well.

Spring large trash will be May 9th and 10th for the north side, and May 16th and 17th for the south side of town.

Police Chief Jones’s report was accepted as presented, which showed that the department conducted 36 investigations throughout the month of March.

Approval was then given for the renewal of the health insurance of village employees, with the best offer being from the same company with a 14.9% cost increase.

Mayor Leu asked for permission for an additional light on Madison Street, with it being shared that there is already a pole erected. Permission was granted for the addition of a new light.

Council thanked Administrator Fritsch for helping with the responsibilities left unattended by the water operator position vacancy, and Councilor Lebowsky asked if the property on Buckeye Street has changed ownership, with it being shared that the property has quite the issue with blight.

Jones promised to look into whether there is a potential ordinance violation occurring at the property, and Councilor Massie shared that the Hilltop SRO has been doing a wonderful job.

Council then voted to adjourn at 8:23 p.m., set to meet next on May 9, 2024, at 7:30 p.m.

Dotting My Teas

A few weeks before my brother Stevie passed away, I decided we should take some photos together. We sat on the couch, and Stevie could see the two of us on the camera screen. He was in a silly mood and called me “Marlene Marine.” I was glad I’d caught the moment on video, for Stevie had just given me another nickname. That night was my turn to stay overnight at his house. Looking back, I’m glad I didn’t know my new nickname was somewhat prophetic. It was 2 a.m. when I woke up to a cold house. My tired eyes didn’t read the numbers correctly on the thermostat. I heard the furnace kicking on, but I didn’t know it was just an attempt by the furnace to do what it was supposed to do. So, the house was becoming colder.

At 6 a.m. I heard a noise, so I checked on Stevie and found he had fallen out of bed. Knowing he could still get himself off the floor, I brought a chair for him to use as he’d done in the past. Although he told me he’d get up, he continued to sit on the floor and tell me how cold he was.

Finally, I called my brothers to tell them Stevie needed help, and the house was very cold. I should have called in the troops at 2 a.m. As it turned out, they had the chance to sleep before spending the morning getting heat back into the house.

Taking care of Stevie over the years had been a fairly easy thing to do. As his health declined, we naturally looked for ways to keep him safe and content. To find things he could do. His family members and caregivers were “called up” to see him through.

Looking back on the last years of his life, we knew he was slowing down. He quit participating in things that were important to him. The last time he rode his bike was in the summer of 2022. He’d also retired from playing Special Olympics basketball and decided he’d like to be the team manager.

His annual family vacations were spent in Cincinnati where we went to restaurants, ball games, and amusement parks. His last trip to the Reds’ ball field was in September of 2022 when, of course, the Reds won.

My cell phone is now a little treasure box – full of pictures and videos of the fun times we’d spent together. Stevie couldn’t pass up a good souvenir or trinket, and now I’m glad he wanted to have his photo taken whenever it worked out. Who doesn’t need a refrigerator magnet with a picture of yourself taken while on vacation?

After our parents passed away, Stevie would often tell us that he missed them. Although he knew where they were, we found the best reply to his questions was simply to remind him that Mom and Dad are okay.

When we go through the loss of a loved one, we’re reminded of how much it hurts emotionally. It seems the more we love someone, the harder it is to adapt to life without them. We’re left with emotions we’ve never dealt with before.

After Stevie experienced a loss in his life, he summed up his feelings in four words: “It hurts my heart.” In the comments on Stevie’s Facebook page, it was pointed out that everyone should “Love like Stevie,” and the world would be a better place.

If Stevie taught us anything, it’s that we’re here to live each wonderful moment. To laugh with others. To have fun.

There may be times we need to be as tough as a marine, but we’re here to live life with joy, even as we deal with our hurting hearts.

It seems Stevie had a built-in superpower when it came to loving unconditionally. I found a video in which I quizzed him about his love for babies. I asked him if babies like him, and he nodded as he stated, “Everybody likes me.”

Perhaps the fact that Stevie knew he was loved is the reason he so easily loved others. Stevie and his friends were an especially fun group to hang out with. Their positive energy filled the air, and their jokes made others laugh. Their marriage proposals to waitresses were something they got away with.

Stevie’s good friend Kevin Heer passed away just two weeks before Stevie. There are those who’ve laughingly asked if the two had conspired to be together. I was Stevie’s legal guardian during his time on earth. Now I know we’ve switched places, and Stevie is my guardian who left me with one last gift – a nickname to see me through. I won’t forget he told me that I’m a marine. We’ve been placed on this earth to love and be loved. To put our built-in superpowers to good use. To be tough. To be brave. To live up to our nicknames. To love without judgment. To know when we’ve done all that we can do. To “love like Stevie loved.”

Marlene Oxender is a writer, speaker, and author. She writes about growing up in the small town of Edgerton, her

PHOTO BY ANNA WOZNIAK / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

By: Jacob Kessler THE VILLAGE REPORTER jacob@thevillagereporter.com

Swanton High School students were treated to a night out for prom this past weekend. The evening event took place on Friday, April 12th at Birchwood Meadows. Doors opened at 6:45 p.m., with the event officially starting at 7:00 p.m.

The theme for this year was Rustic Romance, which the Birchwood Meadow event space does especially well. Students were treated to a large open space for mingling and dancing, with beautiful décor to boot.

Prom night lasted until 10:00 p.m. with students then heading on over to the Swanton Sports Center for a night of bowling. There was also a magician onsite, along with a waffle bar with a multitude of toppings, with after-prom lasting until 2:00 a.m.

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Ohio

Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Director Mary Mertz have announced that the Ohio Wildlife Council has voted to remove the trumpeter swan from the state’s threatened species list.

The delisting culminates a 28-year effort by the ODNR Division of Wildlife to restore a population of trumpeter swans in Ohio.

Ohio’s trumpeter swan population today stands at nearly 900, with swans nesting in 26 different counties.

“Ohio’s professional wildlife biologists dedicated themselves to growing the trumpeter swan population over nearly three decades, and their perseverance has paid off,” said Governor DeWine. “In addition to monitoring the growth of the trumpeter swan population, a great deal of work also went into creating and restoring wetland habitat needed for generations of trumpeters to nest and thrive.”

Trumpeter swan populations experienced severe declines throughout North Amer-

ica in the 1700s and 1800s because of unregulated harvest and wetland habitat loss. They were extirpated from Ohio as early as the 1700s.

Following aquatic habitat improvements and successful reintroductions in other Midwest states, the Division of Wildlife began a trumpeter swan reintroduction program in 1996 by collecting swan eggs from an established population at the Minto Flats State Game Refuge in central Alaska. The eggs were placed in incubators and flown to Ohio, where the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and The Wilds of the Columbus Zoo partnered to help care for the eggs, raise the young trumpeters, and release them in appropriate habitats.

Trumpeter swans were listed as an endangered species upon release and populations have been on the rise ever since, leading to a positive downgrade to threatened status in 2012.

“Trumpeter swans represent a great comeback story for Ohio. This is just one of many examples of the conservation

work ODNR has been doing for the last 75 years,” said Director Mertz.

“Through the hard work and dedication of our staff and conservation partners we can once again see trumpeter swans fly through Ohio’s skies.”

Wetland complexes on state

wildlife areas such as Funk Bottoms, Killdeer Plains, Magee Marsh, and Mosquito Creek provided the critical habitat Ohio’s trumpeters needed.

Today, programs such as H2Ohio are restoring more wetlands on public and pri-

vate lands with benefits of improved water quality for all Ohioans and enhanced wildlife habitats. Ohio’s 2010 Swan Management Plan established a goal for delisting trumpeter swans when the population reached 40 or more breeding pairs for three consecutive years. Biologists confirmed more than 40 breeding pairs for the first time in 2015 and every year since. Ohio hosted 152 breeding pairs in 2023. Another prerequisite for delisting was for trumpeters to breed in at least 15 counties. The latest survey documented trumpeters breeding in 26 counties. By both metrics, trumpeter swan populations have surpassed the Division of Wildlife’s management goals for the species. The recovery of the trumpeter swan is a monumental conservation success story in Ohio. The trumpeter’s recovery parallels the restoration of bald eagle and osprey populations in the last several decades. Trumpeters will continue to receive protection in the state under federal and state wildlife laws. The Division of Wildlife’s monitoring and management efforts to increase trumpeter swan populations and their habitat are ongoing. The Ohio Wildlife Council is an eight-member, bipartisan group of citizens appointed by Governor DeWine to advise and assist the Division of Wildlife and to report their findings to the governor. The council also reviews and votes on all Division of Wildlife proposed rules and regulations.

PHOTOS BY JACOB KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER VIEW 48 PHOTOS OF THIS EVENT FOR FREE AT WWW.THEVILLAGEREPORTER.COM

By: Jesse Davis THE VILLAGE REPORTER jesse@thevillagereporter.com

The double trouble of tax abatements pulling away funding that would come their way and a replacement levy that just won’t seem to pass were the focus of discussion at the PikeDelta-York Local School District Board of Education Meeting last week.

Most pressing is the problem of the 5.31 mill replacement levy, the loss of which would likely mean staffing cuts, among other actions. It initially failed 987-1,743 last November, then failed a second time last month by 808-940.

There is still some hope of getting the levy back on the ballot in the November 5 general election.

The district faced a similar problem the last time they tried to pass a levy. A 1 percent income tax levy failed 1,714 to 2,309 in November of 2020 before passing in May of the following year by a vote of 1,090 to 765.

At the same time, the district has an opportunity to share its voice with the Delta Village Council on an issue that could also help improve future finances.

The district currently misses out on a large chunk of funding due to tax abatements, and getting rid of a guaranteed 100 percent tax abatement on certain new developments is in line with their current goals.

The Community Reinvestment Area in Delta has been the source of great debate both in favor of and opposed to reducing the size of the area of changing the program to bring it under newer post-1994 rules that would give the village (and the school district) more negotiating power.

According to district CFO/ Treasurer Matt Feasel, the district is missing out on roughly

$550,000 per year due to tax abatements, including the CRA abatements.

“Community members in this village have picked up the tab for shareholders of NorthStar, Nature Fresh, and so on and so forth, and that is because of the previous village administrator’s decision [to establish a guaranteed 100 percent abatement CRA program],” board member Tim Ford said.

The potential loss of the substitute levy isn’t just painful as a loss of revenue, but as the loss of what is meant to help balance the losses from things like abatements.

“The advantage of the substitute levy even though, despite all the tax abatements that we have, that was one instrument that fought this, and as those would roll off, that valuation, we would generate additional income,” Feasel said.

That growth is still not enough to make up for the loss of the levy, and Superintendent Jon Burke said “A lot of levies went down in

our area, and in a time where inflation is going up and it feels like expenses are going out of control, this is one thing voters could control,” Burke said. “We have some work to do to educate our voters on what all these abatements are doing as far as how they’re impacting the schools, and I say that there’s very differing opinions in the community about what those abatements are doing,” he later added.

According to Burke, if they are unsuccessful in getting the levy passed, they will be going back for a new levy request. If it is allowed to roll off, he said, “there’s no doubt in the future we’re looking at some kind of reductions.”

“I feel like we have a really nice financial package that allows for a nice diverse burden of taxes, and it’s not a lot of taxes, especially compared to our neighboring communities,” he said. “So, it’s frustrating. It’s frustrating.”

Burke commented on the pre-1994 CRA, saying taxpay-

ers have picked up the tab for industrial infrastructure on the west end, and it’s time for those companies to “pay their fair share now.” Board members were also concerned about the possible triple whammy of the levy falling off, the village choosing to stay with the pre-1994 CRA and not shrink it, and new residential developments going in, bringing a large influx of new students for the schools.

OTHER BUSINESS

“The district currently receives approximately $315,000 annually for special need services contracted through the Northwest Ohio Educational Service Center.”

The board approved an overnight trip to the History Day State Competition on April 20 at Capital University in Columbus. Children will be transported to the event by their parents.

The board ended the public portion of the meeting by going into executive session for the purpose of “the appointment, employment, dismissal, discipline, promotion, demotion, or compensation of an employee or the investigation of charges or complaints against an employee, or official, licensee, or student.” No action was expected as a result of the session.

The next regular meeting of the Pike-Delta-York Local School District Board of Education will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15, 2024.

The board approved early graduation for Emma Ashby and Alexis Savage. The board approved a variety of personnel changes, including a pair of resignations and new contracts related to a pair of internal moves, as well as supplemental contracts for three assistant track coaches. Burke read a statement regarding the district’s receipt of federal IDEA-B funds for special education purposes. “The district is required to notify district residents of the availability of the funds and provide an opportunity for input on the expenditure of these funds,” Burke said.

PHOTO PROVIDED / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH … Front Row - Brennan Dempsey, Adaleia

Back Row (left to right) - Brantley Tomaszewski, Kellen Snow, Wyatt Hamrick, Zaedyn Alvardo, Hunter Cassabon, Grayson Gill. SECOND GRADE … Front Row (left to right) - Roger, Addison Dohner, Charlotte Rector, Alivia Wortkoetter, Noah Cromie. Back Row (left to right) - Kaige Ussery, Kellen Snow, Brantley Tomaszewski.

KK PM … Front Row (left to right)– Anakin Cassabon, Rosilyn Doan.

KINDERGARTEN … Front Row (left to right) - Aubrey Warner, Vivian Makula, Nevaeh Grime, Alaina Karr. Back Row (left to right) - Henry Chamberlain, Liam Belton.

FIRST GRADE … Front Row (left to right) - Max Tressler, Zaedyn Alvardo, Gracelyn Endicott, Kyle Ebaugh. Back Row (left to right) - Campbell Shoup, Evelyn Makula, Myah Hanenkratt.

Tech Director Updates BOE On Current Projects & Unveils New Sound System In Gymnasium

By: Amy Wendt THE VILLAGE REPORTER amy@thevillagereporter.com

The Pettisville Board of Education met for its regular monthly meeting with Brent Hoylman, Justin Rufenacht, Pam Skates, and Barry Hoylman in attendance, while board member Scott Rupp was absent.

Also on hand were administrators Superintendent Josh Clark, Treasurer Chris Lee, Elementary Principal Jason Waldvogel, High School/Jr. High Principal Adam Wagner, and District Director of Technology Mike Zimmerman. Zimmerman took a moment to share with the board notable technology updates taking place within the district.

He first shared that his department will see staff shifting next school year with Technology Assistant, Jenea Lammers, moving over to the school’s library.

As the current Tech Assistant, Lammers takes care of configuring the students’ Chromebook system and also handles iPad management.

The district’s website and social media presence are also handled by Lammers, and she will carry on with those duties at her new post in the library next school year.

Gabe Jaramillo, who is currently a bus driver and coach for the district, will be replacing Lammers in the Technology Department and Zimmerman is looking forward to him joining the IT staff.

As for current projects, the school will soon be seeing a network and wireless upgrade with a little help from the Federal E-Rate Program.

The Federal E-Rate Program offers discounted telecommunications and internet services to eligible schools and libraries, ensuring they have affordable access to technology for educational purposes.

A vendor has been chosen and Zimmerman is waiting for approval from the E-Rate program before the project begins.

The equipment to be replaced includes 20+ network switches that are original to the building and the current plan entails reducing that number of 20 switches down to around 15.

The building’s wireless capability will also see an overhaul with 33 access points being updated in the academic areas to ensure student connectivity in classrooms.

Zimmerman pointed out that much of the current equipment being replaced is at its end-of-life stage and can no longer be repaired or reconfigured for better performance.

The board also received an update on the 911Inform system recently installed at the school and Zimmerman provided two examples of how the system has already been put to use since its inception.

The 911Inform system offers real-time communication between first responders and designated school staff during emergencies. When a 911 call is placed within the school, it triggers an emergency event in the software, alerting school administrators, dispatchers, law enforcement, and EMTs.

This system also incorporates connected door controls, enabling dispatchers or staff to manage building access during an emergency situation if necessary.

Moving on to the gymnasium sound system, Zimmerman recalled that the audio in the large room had been adequate over the years since its installation when the new school was built.

However, the sound did not carry well in some areas of the expansive space which necessitated the need for an upgrade.

After speaking with five different vendors about the project, Harter Sound of Montpelier was chosen to design and install a system to better fit the school’s needs. Zimmerman then invited all board members to follow him to the gymnasium for a demonstration of the final product. As everyone entered the large empty gym, the tech director clicked a few buttons on his iPad, filling the room with music reminiscent of what one might hear when the Blackbird basket-

ball team makes a grand entrance for a big game.

Superintendent Clark took the microphone and in true announcer style, invited each board member to stand at the center of the basketball court, offering them a different perspective on the sound quality.

After each member had their turn, they dispersed throughout the room to gauge the audio quality from various vantage points.

Board member Pam Skates commented that the project was complete in perfect timing for the upcoming graduation ceremony.

Back in the conference room, the board adopted the Consent Agenda which included acceptance of the March 2024 meeting minutes as well as the approval of financial reports and payment of bills as presented by the treasurer.

In personnel matters, the board approved the hiring of Jen Bergstedt as bus driver for the 2024-2025 school year. Superintendent Clark noted that Bergstedt will be bringing with her to the district many years of bus driving experience as she previously served for Napoleon Area Schools and Northwest Ohio Educational Service Center in the same capacity.

BOE members also approved a motion to adopt a 3% salary increase on the base for all staff members not covered by the Pettisville Teachers Association for the 20242025 and 2025-2026 school years.

The measure also allows the board to deposit $2,000 into these employees’ Health Savings Accounts.

In the Board Report, President Brent Hoylman reminded his colleagues that the Junior/Senior Prom is slated for April 20 and board members will be on hand to assist with directing traffic at walk-ins.

Moving on to the treasurer’s report, Mr. Lee highlighted a revenue sheet showing interest income received by the district. Across all funds, Pettisville School has received $146,040 in revenue from investment interest.

In elementary news, Principal Waldvogel began by noting that students will begin testing during the week of April 8.

Waldvogel then took a moment to offer a note of thanks to Mary Sauder for coordinating “The Bird Perch” community hour which is hosted by the Elementary.

Is It Really So?

The Greek scriptures condemn all war except defensive war. All of us have been wronged at times, thus all of us have to forgive others at times. The same is more true of nations. The King James Version uses the word “peace” 429 times, and the New International Version uses it only 230 times.

Conversely, the word “love” is used in the King James Bible 310 times and the New Living Translation used the word 801 times. The KJV uses the word “forgive” 95 times, the English Standard Version uses it 109 times.

These ideals are clearly central, Biblical themes no matter which translation is used. Some examples are below:

Isaiah 2:4. And he shall judge among the nations and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore.

Isaiah 9:6. For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Psalm 11:5. The Lord examines the righteous, but the wicked, those who engage in violence, he hates with a passion.

Psalm 34:14. Depart from evil and do good; seek, inquire for, and crave peace and pursue (go after) it!

Micah 4:3. Then they shall hammer their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks [so that the implements of war may become the tools of agriculture]; Nation shall not lift up sword against nation, Nor shall they ever again train for war.

Proverbs 15:1. A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. You can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar.

Deuteronomy 32:35. Vengeance and payback are mine for the time will come when your enemy’s foot slips; for the day of their calamity is coming, their doom is rushing upon them.

Matthew 5:9. Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called children of God.

The initiative, which began in 2012, offers the community an opportunity to meet with school staff members to discuss district happenings.

Waldvogel noted that public interest in the “Bird Perch” has grown steadily with around 35 in attendance at the last gathering.

According to Waldvogel, Kindergarten registration “went really well” with approximately 46 students registered to date. It was also noted that this is a rather large number for the small school compared to previous years.

Sharing news from the high school and junior high grades, Principal Wagner highlighted that later on in the week, students will be treated to a motivational presentation about overcoming adversity by former Harlem Globetrotter Melvin Adams.

The former NCAA All-American basketball player and Harlem Globetrotter is known for his energetic presentations. Born in Texas, Melvin faced adversity at the age of 13 upon the passing of his father.

Soon after, sports became his refuge, leading him to excel in high school and later in college. After college, Melvin pursued professional basketball, eventually joining the Harlem Globetrotters.

Retiring in 2000, he shifted focus to motivating others to achieve personal success by sharing his inspiring story.

Wagner went on to note that high school and junior high students just wrapped up Student Appreciation Week where they had a chance to step away from the norm and take part in special sessions such as fishing and campfire cooking.

Volunteers and staff pulled together and pitched in to make ice cream sundaes and serve hot chocolate for the event.

Wagner noted that the students were excited and engaged in the sessions and it was great to see students from different grades intermingling while taking part in classes based on their interests.

Students in grades 7 through 12 will also see testing begin in April starting with English and then moving on to math, science, and social studies as the month progresses. The next Pettisville Board of Education meeting will be held on May 13, 2024, at 7:00 p.m.

Matthew 5:21-23. You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment from God.’ But I tell you that anyone who is even angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, contempt is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.

Matthew 5:23-24. If you are offering your gift at the altar and when there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.

Matthew 5:44. You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

Matthew 6:14. For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly father will also forgive you.

Matthew 18:21-35. Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times. … This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”

Mark 11:25. And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your father in heaven may forgive you your sins.

Romans 12:17-21. 17 Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. Therefore “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing, you will heap coals of fire on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good.

1 Peter 4:8. Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.

The words “Christian” and “peace,” “love” and “forgiveness” are synonymous, such as in the phrase “he is not behaving very Christian.”

Unfortunately, secularization of society has also occurred in the churches and thus these central, Biblical themes need to be stressed even more.

Dr. Bergman is a multi-award-winning teacher and author. He has taught in the science and psychology area for over 40 years at the University of Toledo Medical College, Bowling Green State University, and other colleges. His 9 degrees include a Doctorate from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. He has over 1,800 publications in both scholarly and popular science journals that have been translated into 13 languages. His publications are in over 2,400 college libraries in 65 countries. Bergman has spoken over 2,000 times at colleges and churches in America, Canada, Europe, the South Sea Islands, and Africa.

SOUND CHECK … Superintendent Clark (left) took the microphone and in true announcer style, invited each board member including Pam Skates (right) to stand at the center of the basketball court, offering everyone a different perspective on the sound quality.

PHOTOS BY AMY WENDT / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

PROJECT UPDATES … Tech Director Mike Zimmerman (left) shares with the board updates on current technology projects.

Tragedy Into Triumph: Stryker Local Releases Autobiography About Her Life

By: Jenna Frisby THE VILLAGE REPORTER publisher@thevillagereporter.com

Many people heard about Christie and Wesley Werts after they went viral because of their choice to uproot their lives after receiving an unexpected call from Wesley’s ex-sister-in-law.

Wesley’s ex-wife had passed just days after giving birth to a pre-term baby boy. When Wesley told Christie, he already knew they would be making the trip to Texas to get the baby boy.

Christie, having been in foster care herself, did not want to let the infant, Levi, have to face the circumstances of potentially going from home to home in foster care, like she had to as a child.

So, Christie, Wesley, and their blended family sold their home here in Northwest Ohio and headed to Texas. They went through countless hours of trainings, home checks, and appointments just to become licensed foster parents.

After finally getting licensed, they got Levi and after some time, were then able to adopt him into their family and even move back to Northwest Ohio where they call “home” in rural Stryker. But that’s not where the story ends, or even really begins.

Christie has always had the thought in the back of her mind of writing a book, but nothing ever really blossomed from the thought or pushed her to actually accomplish it. Until she and her husband went viral for their choice to adopt Levi.

“When our story went viral, that was kind of the push I needed to really share a little bit more of my background, because most of the articles were about (how) I was a former foster kid.”

Now, she really felt the calling to write. Not only about Levi’s part in their family story, but about her past and her story. The story that didn’t define her but molded her into who she is, and which ultimately led her to make the choices she did for Levi.

Christie’s book, “Life’s Sad Sto-

ry God’s Love Story: Transforming a Child’s Adversity into a Tale of Love”, is an autobiography that’s written in such a way to feel personable and intimate.

Like sitting down and having a cup of coffee with Christie yourself, you’ll be able to feel like you’re really there listening to her and having a one-on-one conversation.

She states “My book is different. It’s not written in chapters. I’ve written it in moments, memories, and stories.”

Christie details events in her life from a young age throughout her book. She started the process of writing her autobiography by simply just putting pen to paper.

As she continued writing, she faced reliving some of her most difficult life events in order to convey who she is to her readers. “A few times I had to take emotional breaks because I was revisiting a lot of my childhood.”

“So, I had to sometimes step away for a week or two at a time because I was writing about things that land you

in foster care, which are not what normal kids go through.”

As Christie navigated her way back through her past, she recollected the stories ingrained in her memory of her parent’s battling with heroine addictions, and the abuse she faced living in the home she grew up in.

She was almost fifteen when she finally landed in the foster care system after her father’s physical abuse was caught by a public eye one day. From that moment to where she is today has been a long road of forgiveness and healing.

Christie ended up writing her entire book in only about three months. She recollects that it was more daunting to edit her book than it was to actually write it. That process took another three to four months. And now here she is an author with a published book for all to read and access. Christie hopes to be able to publish more books in the near future.

One book she plans to write will be

to share further detail about the life of her husband, Wesley, and his perspective of their story, as well as his childhood which also involved watching his parents face addictions.

Another book she wishes to write will be for Levi, to share about adoption so as he grows older, he can understand who he is as well as introduce him to that part of his story.

Levi is two now so Christie hopes to write “something along the lines that introduces a child to adoption (that) you can start reading at around age three or so.”

She shares that they have always been open with Levi and sharing his story with him. He’s just too little to understand at this moment. Which is a driving force for her to write a book that can be shared over and over again with him, and hopefully help other children as well with their own adoption journey’s.

Christie describes her book as one “about resilience and the human spirit and how far we’ll go for people we love”. She uses the example of a broken vase. That it can be placed back together and held together by glue, but it will always have those cracks in it.

“Life is going to sometimes hand you things or you’ll go through dark times, bad times, but it doesn’t have to define who you are and the direction you go.” Christie’s life has defiantly been proof of exactly that.

Christie Werts’ story is one of trials, adversity, and tragedy but she refused to be defined by her circumstances. She has chosen to turn her tragedy into triumph in the way she lives her life.

Being the wife she is, the mom she has chosen to be, and the person she strives to be every day she wakes up: kind and compassionate.

Christie’s book “Life’s Sad Story God’s Love Story: Transforming a Child’s Adversity into a Tale of Love” was released on Monday, April 15th. You can purchase her 218-page book for $19.99 on Amazon, Kindle, and any other major book retailer.

By: Jacob Kessler

THE VILLAGE REPORTER

jacob@thevillagereporter.com

Members of the Fulton County Genealogical Society met on Tuesday, April 9th. Seventeen members met at 7:00 p.m. at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Delta to discuss the group’s agenda. First on the night’s agenda was a presentation by Aaron Faehnle from Ohio Monuments.

Faehnle is the president of the company and is a fifth-generation member of the Northwest Ohio business. Faehnle spoke to the group and shared information regarding the repair and restoration of monuments.

BRYAN CITY SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION

Included in that information was an example of costs from their company, as well as treatments available for sale by the company. A short break followed the presentation, with the meeting moving once again at 8:02 p.m. Members first moved to approve minutes from both the March meeting and March Financial Report.

Under old business, the next newsletter will be released on July 1st of this year, with plans to continue the letter after that. Speakers are also set up for the months of May and June, with June being the group’s banquet month. The meal will be catered by The Barn Restaurant and will cost $20.00.

Next, the current website was discussed, along with queries received and publications for sale. Currently, there are books for sale on Amazon and in the Museum Book Store. There are also 133 cookbooks remaining in stock. Books

Board Updated On Status Of Two Grants

By: Anna Wozniak THE VILLAGE REPORTER anna@thevillagereporter.com

The Bryan City School District Board of Education met on Monday, April 8th, at 7 p.m. They met at the Mose Isaac Field House instead of the auditeria. Present were members Ben Camarillo, Deb Opdycke, Dustin Schlachter, Caleb Turnbull, and Lynn Wieland.

After the approval of the minutes from their March 13,

2024 regular meeting and April 5, 2024 special meeting, Ben Camarillo gave the Four County report.

The treasurer’s report was accepted as presented, which included the monthly financial report, the OHI Charter Policy for the 2025 school year, the appropriations of St. Patrick’s Auxiliary Funds for fiscal year 2025, the ranking of professionals and authorization to execute an agreement for architectural services related to the middle and high school expansion project, a then and now Central Ohio Youth Center payment, and the acceptance of donations from the Athletic Boosters and Keller Logistics.

The specifics of two grants being pursued by the district were detailed, with one being a STEM and Innovation grant, and the other being the Brownfield Remediation Grant.

The superintendent’s recommendations were approved as presented, which included employment contracts, resignations, new hires, and extended time contracts.

It was then shared that staff appreciation week will occur from May 6th through the 10th, with prom taking place the Saturday before on May 4th.

The Academic Booster Club Awards will take place May 6th at the high school gym, Senior Scholarship Night will happen on May 13th at the high school gym, and graduation will take place at the high school gym as well on May 26, 2024, set to start at 2 p.m.

It was then that the Bryan City School District Board of Education voted to enter in executive session at 7:56 p.m., set to meet next on May 13, 2024, at 6 p.m. at Bryan Elementary School.

ARCHBOLD, OHIO – Northwest State Community College

celebrates the spirit of entrepreneurship and the power of small businesses by hosting its 10th annual Entrepreneurship Forum on Tuesday, May 7 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. in the Voinovich Auditorium.

This FREE event is open to all residents of Defiance, Fulton, Henry, Paulding, and Williams Counties with a business idea and want help in moving it forward.

VALUABLE EXPERIENCES

The 2024 Entrepreneurship Forum provides budding entrepreneurs with the opportunity to present their ideas to a panel of experts from the region, and to network with those experts – both very valuable experiences.

Local economic development directors and lenders from the five-county area will make up the advisory panel. Thanks in part to grant funding by the Everyday Entrepreneurship Fund, up to $5,000 in start-up funding will be awarded at the event.

REMOVING BARRIERS

“Northwest State, the Small Business Development Center, and economic development are joining forces to invigorate small business growth in Northwest Ohio. Small business is vital to our communities. We need entrepreneurs to keep things going,” said Lisa Becher, business faculty at Northwest State. Becher is also the State of Ohio Small Business Development Center Consultant in NW Ohio and a local business owner. She has created a “semi-Shark Tank style” event that helps aspiring business owners by removing barriers to market. “The forum was created to break down barriers and move entrepreneurs forward, helping them with an idea. Many people just don’t know what to do next and how to get started.”

“It is a wonderful networking opportunity to meet with lenders and economic development to fast forward their concept. We are excited to work with the Everyday Entrepreneurship Fund and offer entrepreneurs additional financial resources

Of note, a presentation template is required, and is available by contacting Lisa Becher at the email address above. Nourishing

By: Cheryl L Garza - Bryan, Ohio

The same power that runs the universe is within you--well if you awaken to it. There is a Powerful driving force inside every human being that, once unleashed can make any vision, dream, or desire a reality. There is an incredible power and intelligence within you that is constantly responding to your thoughts and words.

As you learn to control your mind by the conscious choice of thoughts, you align yourself with this power. Do not think that your mind is in control. You are in control of your mind. You can stop thinking those old thoughts.

When your old thinking tries to come back and say, “It’s so hard to change.” Take mental control. Say to your mind, “I NOW choose to believe it is becoming easier for me to make changes.” Keep your thoughts focused. Stay open, present to the current moment. Going within and tapping your inner power that already knows what’s best for us. Letting go of stuck past beliefs and patterns that no longer serve. Making time as soon as you awaken or sleep at night. In this relaxed, comfortable position, say to yourself, I AM willing to let go. I release all tension. I release all fear. I release all anger. I release all guilt. I release all guilt. I release all sadness.

I LET GO of all old limitations. I LET GO and I AM at peace. I am at peace with myself. I am at peace with the PROCESS OF LIFE. In the present moment, we live, breathe, and have been in spirit.

Whatever you use to call higher power. When we live in the present we have no regrets about the past. We can bless the past and have no desire to relive it. This is where the true power lies within all of us, the NOW the present moment. My thoughts and attitudes in the now help prepare me for a positive future. My ability to deal with what’s ahead of me is determined by how I use today’s opportunities. As you HONOR and follow the guidance of your heart things awaken inside of you including your highest guide. Bless it and cherish it. It’s time to destroy the voice inside that says, “I can’t, I dent’ have time, I’m not worthy or good enough!”

ONE DAY COULD and does change your whole life. We all are somebody very special, unique in our own ways, DIVINE LOVE & POWER LIES

Event Dates Announced As School Year Winds Down

Ava Lyon, 3rd grade; Caius

4th grade; Lilean Wilson, 4th grade; Alizabeth Cromie, 5th grade; Luxi Fry, 6th grade; John Cromie, 7th grade; Bailey Abrams, 8th grade, and high school student Katie Terry. Superintendent Grime then discussed adding another social worker, as the caseload has become too much for one.

Thorp, and Treasurer Carla Rice.

After a moment of silence and the pledge of allegiance, archery coach Kaitlin Harter shared the most recent activities seen by the 70 Archery Club members, with news that one archer will be sent to a national competition in May, with it being shared that Ashlyn Harter is being evaluated for the opportunity.

Science teacher and Robotics Club advisor Lester Orndorff shared the most recent happening of the Robotics Club, showing off this season’s three robots, and explaining the 3-D printing process used in their creation. Then, the students of the month were honored as follows: Kayson Slane, kindergarten; Kellen Snow, 2nd grade; Michael Davidson, 3rd grade;

An update was given on House Bill 445, which would revise the code around policies for released time courses in religious instruction, House Bill 468, which revised the code regarding the presentation of information on patriotic organizations, and then Mr. Thorp began his report.

He shared that the elementary school saw 41 students at the mobile dentist, a successful parent education night put on by the Health Department featuring Screenagers, a 16-student strong mini manufacturing day at Northwest State was held, and F&M Bank was thanked for their thoughtful donation of eclipse glasses for the entire kindergarten through 6th grades.

CONTINUED ON PAGE C12

Long,

PHOTO PROVIDED / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH … Pictured here are most of the Montpelier Students of the Month. In front, left to right, are Kayson Slane, Kellen Snow, and Michael Davidson. In the back, left to right, are Ava Lyon, Caius Long, Luxi Fry, and Bailey Abrams. Not pictured were Alizabeth Cromie, John Cromie, and Lilean Wilson.

130 YEARS AGO

April 1894

Born to Mr. and Mrs. George Hart Jr., April 28, a daughter.

Joseph Tressler, east of Karle, has his new house ready to be plastered.

Jacob Dick, near Bunker Hill Church, is building a commodious farmhouse.

J.S. Allen and Co. expect to leave for their new location in Baton Rogue, La. in about four weeks.

The post office changed hands, Charles M. Miller taking possession from the retiring assistant postmaster, Mr. Frank Poucher.

Two hundred of Judge Rings’ friends helped him celebrate his sixtieth birthday anniversary last Wednesday evening.

Wilson McKelvey moved George McGrew’s farm to West Unity last week.

120 YEARS AGO

April 1904

Born to Mr. and Mrs. Jos. Burkholder Jr., April 4, twins, a son and a daughter.

The children and grandchildren of Mrs. Mary Drum spent last Wednesday at her home for a family reunion before Mr. and Mrs. C. Shilling leave for their new home at Shawneetown, Ill.

R.C. Poucher has nearly completed the remodeling of his house.

Charley Horner began working for the P. Weidner Co. at Kunkle on Monday. There was a hard frost last night, the roads are frozen hard and ice is quite thick.

While generating gas on the gasoline tank for the water tank of J.W. Kissell’s new bathtub, the gas overflowed, caught fire, and for a few minutes it looked like a serious fire might occur.

110 YEARS AGO

April 1914

Born to Mr. and Mrs. Reuben Stipe, April 30, a daughter, Phyllis Pauline.

Mr. and Mrs. Lucinda Burns is now in charge of the Burns house in place of Miss Lenora Mohr, who had been manager the past three years.

Jos. Bradrick has purchased Frank Keller’s house on West Church St.

100 YEARS AGO

April 1924

Nancy Fenimore, 79, passed away April 28.

Mrs. Millie Semer of Alvordton died Monday night.

Mrs. M.E. Newcomer received word Monday morning of the death of her brother, John Weaver of Montpelier.

I.A. Ames of Pulaski died suddenly Thursday night of apoplexy.

Mrs. Wise died at the home of her son John north of Lockport on Tuesday morning.

David Hoover of Morenci, Mich. died early Monday morning.

Wm. McIntire returned Tuesday from LaPorte, Ind. where he spent the winter with his daughter Mrs. Laura Sell.

90 YEARS AGO

April 1934

Don Main and Isabelle Downing were married April 26. Don works at the Clifton garage here.

George M. Ely of Pioneer passed away on Monday. He was a resident of West Unity for many years.

Wright Fisher passed away at his home here Monday morning, aged 83 years.

Wm. H. Armstrong of Bunker Hill died suddenly Tuesday afternoon at the office of Atty. Ham, at Wauseon, where he had gone with his son Hiram. The cause of death was heart trouble and he was 66 years of age.

E.J. Marsh, 66, of Toledo, met sudden death when his car skidded and crashed into a telephone pole on Dorr St. last Thursday. He was in business here before moving to Toledo about 13 years ago.

80 YEARS AGO

April 1944

George Planson is a candidate for

Looking Back At What

nomination for county commissioner.

Robert Dilts is a candidate at the spring primary for county recorder.

Mr. and Mrs. Clayton Simmons visited relatives in Allison, Iowa, last week.

Dewey Stoops, 45, died on Tuesday evening at his home in Fayette after a long illness.

Chas. Zuver, former village marshal and nightwatch was again hired for the job Monday night by the village council. He replaces W.M. McFarland, who resigned on Saturday.

Kathleen Rupp has been named as valedictorian of the 1944 senior class of West Unity with Ned and Ted Stipe as co-salutatorians.

70 YEARS AGO

April 1954

Virginia Nickelson became the bride of Robert Zedakeron April 24.

Cecil Franklin DeGroff passed away on Saturday in Williams County General Hospital after a long illness.

Myra Jane Boyer, 18-month-old of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Boyer is in Toledo Hospital recovering from pneumonia.

60 YEARS AGO

April 1964

Building permits were issued to: Maurice C. Borton, erection of a new house; Paul Nowak and M.C. Thompson were issued permits for alterations to homes.

The Fifty plus Five Corporation erected the West Unity plant in 1955 and provides employment for about 150 workers.

On Arbor Day, April 24, the Stryker boy scouts planted trees in the new Springfield township park. Mr. Earl sines, new caretaker of the park, also helped in the planting, and Denver Rupp, park board member, reported an open-air shelter and recreational equipment have been installed.

Eight Stryker students ranked in top ten percent in the Williams County mathematics contest. They were Lynda Ufer, Paul Robison, Carl Keith, Jim Headley, Will Peugeit, Sue Heer, Joan Alexander, and Carol Heer.

The West Unity Chapter SPEBSQSA Inc. will present its annual concert of Harmony Sunday, April 19th. in the Hilltop Auditorium

The Ohio FFA Association announced that James Gunn, son of Mr. and Mrs. Orville Gunn, will be among the 251 members selected to receive the coveted State Farmer Degree.

A large barn on the farm of Mrs. Amanda Stuckey, of Rt. 2, West Unity, was completely destroyed in a spectacular night fire early the morning of Easter Sunday, along with livestock, farm machinery and other contents of the building.

50 YEARS AGO

April 1974

A huge blaze apparently started by arsonists destroyed the grandstand

at the Williams County Fairgrounds Friday night. Estimated value of the structure was $50,000, but officials say it would probably cost well over $100,000 to replace at today’s prices.

Bill Bell accompanied other West Unity citizens to deliver donations to the Red Cross in Xenia, Ohio due to destruction from a tornado.

STRYKER AREA NEWS

The Stryker Advance was established in 1884. In 1976 The Stryker Advance merged with The West Unity Reporter to become The Advance Reporter. In 2010 The Advance Reporter merged with The Edon Commercial to become The Village Reporter.

120 YEARS AGO

April 1904

Williams County reports 48 cases of smallpox since January 1.

Prospects are fairly good we may ride to Toledo on the T&I electric railway this summer.

A son was born to Mr. and Mrs. B.E. Woodward on April 23.

Twins were born to Mr. and Mrs. Guy Wells on April 23.

Miss Bernice Mattoon of near Pulaski and Howard Gross of near West Unity were wed on April 23.

110 YEARS AGO

April 1914

Miss Ethel Kellermeyer became the bride of Charles E. Figley on April 12. George Beuhrer died at his home recently.

The stork made two professional calls in Stryker this week leaving a boy at the home of Will Becker and wife and a girl at the home of Louis Slinkey and wife.

Miss Hazel Hall of Macon, Michigan, became the bride of Fred Shough of Adrian on April 12.

100 YEARS AGO

April 1924

The new electric fire alarm system has been installed at the city hall. Born to Mr. and Mrs. Charles DeGroff on April 31, a son.

A.C. Clark, 29, died at Gallipolis on April 22.

90 YEARS AGO

April 1934

Married were Charles Partee and Elizabeth Cameron of Evansport. Henry Louis Graber died on April 20.

A prominent Stryker citizen, Sylvanus P. Louys, 66, died at his home here Wednesday.

80 YEARS AGO

April 1944

Mr. and Mrs. Max Strong will celebrate their 46th wedding anniversary on April 16.

Mrs. Melvin Beucler, 80, passed away April 17.

Mrs. Harvey Dix died at her home near here Tuesday

70 YEARS AGO

April 1954

Honor students named for class of 54’ are Larry Stuckey and Connie Ritter.

Tom Short was graded a I for his snare drum number and Ronald Replogle a II in class B Tuba solo at the music concert in B.G.

A son named Thomas Dean, was born to Mr. and Mrs. Harold Julliard on April 8.

Born April 11 to Mr. and Mrs. Cornell Etoll, a girl named Christine.

60 YEARS AGO

April 1964

Denny DeGroff has been chosen as delegate to Boy’s State.

Karen Glick has placed in the upper fifteen percent of her class at BGSU.

The Navy Department was formerly created April 20, 1798.

EDON AREA NEWS

The Edon Independent was established in 1895 ceasing publication in 1906. A few months later in 1906 The Edon Commercial was established. In 2010 The Edon Commercial was merged with The Advance Reporter to become The Village Reporter.

80 YEARS AGO

April 1944

Nettle Lake Tavern at Goll’s Landing, first and largest on Ohio’s only major inland lake, has been bought by Ralph Goll of Detroit and will reopen this spring for the purposes of providing much needed wartime recreation.

Miss Susie Marie Kaiser, daughter of Dan Kaiser, and Sgt. Marvin Beach were united in marriage Saturday evening, April 8, at the home of Rev. Edith Taylor. Mrs. James Mettler, sister of the groom and Ralph Coble, nephew of the groom served as attendants. Following the ceremony a wedding dinner was served at the home of the groom’s mother.

Pfc. John Henry Burkhardt, who was home on furlough left Sunday for Lincoln, Neb.

70 YEARS AGO

April 1954

Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Crawford Connie, Cathy and Donald had dinner Tuesday with Mr. and Mrs. Dale Crawford and son and Mrs. Ella Bunce; Mr. and Mrs. Steven Powers of Lake Gage were afternoon callers.

Mrs. Duane Oberlin is making her home with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. F.R. Friskney, while her husband is in military service. At the present time she is employed at Butler and drives back and forth from Edon.

In a tour of the Dearborn, Mich. Ford plant last Wednesday, 24 members of the eighth-grade class and their teacher, Mrs. Ed Luce, observed the manufacture of an automobile from the raw iron to the finished vehicle.

CONTINUED ON PAGE B11

Looking Back At What We Read Years Ago

Mrs. Guy Flegal, Mrs. Ranson

Hebblewaite, Mrs. Duane Schall and Mrs. Weldon Starr all room mothers accompanied the group.

60 YEARS AGO

April 1964

Emily Foster was an overnight guest of Cathy Hurd Sunday.

Mr. and Mrs. Lamar Kline entertained at dinner Monday evening in their new trailer home, with Mr. and Mrs. John Kline and Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Kline, Linda and Jack. The dinner was in honor of the birthday of Mr. Ralph Kline.

The Metz Christian Church was the setting April 18 as Ms. Marjorie Smith and Edwin Hinkle were united in marriage. Maid of honor was Ms. ViLou Peck. Jon Oberlin attended the groom as bestman.

50 YEARS AGO

April 1974

Randy C. Allomong, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lamar Allomong, was among the students named to the Dean’s List for the winter quarter at Tri-State College, having achieved a 3.0 GPA average or better.

Carl and Maxine Dargitz celebrated their 35th wedding on April 1. On Sunday friends and neighbors gathered at the Dargitz home to help celebrate the event.

The first meeting of the Busy Bombers 4-H Club was held recently at the home of Paul Burkhardt. Election of officers was held as follows: Eric Borton, president; Kurt Liggett, vice president; Scott Manges, secretary; David Kannel, treasurer; Paul Burkhardt, recreation leader; and Rod McCrea, safety director. Edon’s Dave Herman son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Herman, said goodbye to New York Jets general manager, Weeb Eubank at a press conference held at Gallagher’s Restaurant recently, to announce retirement after ten years of professional football.

40 YEARS AGO

April 1984

Tammy Mocherman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Darwin Mocherman, an Edon High School senior attending Four County Vocational School, placed first in the Job Application Interview Category at the FHA regional rally.

30 YEARS AGO

April 1994

Florence Township Firemen were called out to the Junior Rath property occupied by the Don Reed family on Sunday, April 17. The fire destroyed two storage sheds and a well house, a barn was damaged at the farm on County Road N-30.

The Edon Commercial has new owners and Col. (Ret.) and Mrs. Karl Mauerhan will be retiring again. New owners are Dean and Mary Howard of Fremont, In.

A grass fire covering over a one-half mile square area was fought by seven fire companies in the area on Sunday, April 24.

20 YEARS AGO

April 2004

18-year-old Stephanie Carlson, daughter of Todd and Sandra Carlson of Edon, has been named to the 2004 Ohio 4-H Fashion Board.

THE ADVANCE REPORTER

(EASTERN WILLIAMS COUNTY & VILLAGE OF FAYETTE NEWS)

In 1976 The West Unity Reporter merged with The Stryker Advance to become The Advance Reporter. In 2003 The Advance Reporter expanded to cover Fayette, Ohio news. In 2010 The Advance Reporter merged with The Edon Commercial to become The Village Reporter.

40 YEARS AGO

April 1984

Kristina Whitlock, Stryker, has been named in 1984 United States National Award winner in band.

Mabel Myers was named 1984 Stryker citizen of the year at the Stryker Chamber of Commerce banquet held April 17.

Sheriff Mock made a very appreciative award to Richard Erb, Stryker, for his four years of service providing spiritual needs to the county jail inmates.

30 YEARS AGO

April 1994

Miley Insurance Agency owned by

Dave and Susie Miley, is opening in West Unity. The Hilltop Senior class will be presenting the play “No Cheer for the Cheerleaders.” Saturday’s performance will feature a dinner theatre at 7:00 Stryker Band Boosters held a reverse auction with a prize of $1,500. Winners were Mr. and Mrs. Dave Nicholls who donated the money back to the organization.

20 YEARS AGO

April 2004

Repair work on a building once burned in a fire continued last week in Alvordton.

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Heer are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary on April 20.

Hilltop elementary grades 4, 5, & 6th was visited last Tuesday for Right To Read Week by Robert Shiels from Toledo 11 weather.

THE VILLAGE REPORTER (WILLIAMS COUNTY - FULTON COUNTY AREA NEWS & SPORTS)

In 2010

The Advance Reporter merged with The Edon Commercial to become The Village Reporter. In 2013 The Wauseon Reporter merged with The Village Reporter. Over time since 2010, the newspaper expanded coverage to all the communities of Williams & Fulton Counties in Northwest Ohio to become today's format of The Village Reporter.

10 YEARS AGO

April 2014

Kay Raypholtz, one of The Village Reporter’s own writers, is taking her writing to another level and discovering that dreams really do come true at any age. Raypholtz, 55, a native of Montpelier who now resides in Pioneer and is better known to some by her maiden name of Shatzer, was recently published in a collection of inspirational stories for women. The book titled Women on Fire: 21 Inspiring Women Share Their Life Secrets (and Save You Years of Struggle!) Volume 2 is compiled by nationally

By: Anna Wozniak

Reading over commissioner and council articles, sometimes readers see reference to the Williams County GIS system, mostly with relation to utilities and infrastructure.

This system, which stands for Geographic Information System, is usually used by the county to map out where utility infrastructure is, with the county’s municipalities partnering with the county to participate in this system.

Brian Fritsch, who works with the county as a drainage engineer, ditch maintenance manager and county GIS coordinator, looked at this system and saw the potential to do more.

“Knowing the value of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) beyond collecting information on infrastructure, I wanted to collect the grave locations of the veterans buried in Williams County cemeteries,” he continued, “I also wanted to give people the ability to share photos of the veterans during their time in the service.”

“Growing up I knew veterans of World War II, including both of my grandfathers, one in the Navy and one in the Marine Corps, who fought on Okinawa, along with a great uncle who was onboard the USS Worden (DD-352) at Pearl

Harbor. I never got to see them in their youth.”

“I saw this project as an opportunity to be able to tell the stories of the veteran’s service.

I have found so many fascinating stories from the Civil War through Vietnam, and this platform is a great way to share those stories. It also gives those who may not live in the area a way to see their relative’s grave location.”

That’s right, Mr. Fritsch used the GIS system to map out and give honor to the veterans of Williams County, and makes them accessable to the public by maintaining a website for the project at https:// storymaps.arcgis.com/ stories/d72f8f2d77aa40f5acc138cf75c6de59 .

The grave locations are accompanied by photos of the veterans, as well as a history of what is known about their service.

Any who have photos or knowledge of veterans buried in the county are welcome to reach out to Mr. Fritsch at bfritsch@wmscoengineer.com.

The project consists of maps, surveys to collect veteran information, and an online dashboard that can be used to find a veteran. The dashboard can search by cemetery, branch of service, era of service, and veteran name.

Veterans are added each year, and Mr. Fritsch shared that the hardest part of the

project so far has been locating the oldest graves throughout the county.

He estimates that there are hundreds of civil war era graves that have yet to be reported to the system, and shared that the graves from that time sometimes show disrepair, making it hard or impossible to decipher who is buried there.

That is why it is so important that anyone with knowledge of these veterans share it, for the interest of preserving Williams County history for future generations.

“Some of these graves are well over 150 years old and are starting to become lost to history. At first, I just wanted to be able to provide a way that permanently records the burial locations.”

“As the project took shape,

I found it very interesting that there were many veterans of the Civil War who went to war together, then returned to Williams County together, and are buried near each other.”

He continued with, “there are also headstones in cemeteries that are memorials to fallen veterans who never made it home, and are buried overseas, or in other national cemeteries in the southern United States.”

“There are many stories about these veterans if you look. This project makes it easier to learn about these stories.”

“For example, Private Wil-

“I would also like to be able to collect the locations of those local veterans who were casualties of war and not buried in Williams County.”

“There are casualties of the Civil War, World War I, and World War II who are buried outside Williams County, and I believe the map would be greatly improved having these locations added.”

“If you would like to see how the information can be used on the map,” Fritsch continued, “I would suggest looking up 1st Lieutenant Walter B. Shambager in Riverside Cemetery. He was a casualty of WWII in the Army Air Force.”

You can do that by using the dashboard at this location

liam J. Knight of the 21st Ohio Volunteer Infantry is buried in the Oakwood Cemetery in Stryker. He was one of the very first recipients of the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Civil War.”

The project will never be 100% complete,” shared Fritsch, “each year there are new locations that need to be collected. My end goal would be to have all the veteran grave locations placed on the map.”

https://wmscoeng.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/1b 5a407a28b3405c9e66fb469cb d2d71 . The dashboard works best with computers, and can be used to search by location, making it the perfect tool for those who like to walk to use to check out while they visit local cemeteries.

It’s important that we remember our history, and do those that served for our freedoms the honor of preserving as much of the past as possible.

Now, thanks to Brian Fritsch, Williams County can be sure that the best efforts are being made to honor our veterans.

Wauseon Rotary’s Fifth Annual Reverse Raffle Raises Funds For City’s Parks

last year as well, was sold out. Additional tickets were available at the door for nonticket holders, at a cost of $30 per person. This ticket included access to the meal but not the main raffle. Every ticket holder was able to experience live music put on by Renegade Lemonade.

According to Rotarian Tara Dumas, the funds raised from the event will be used to continue revitalization efforts for the city’s parks. With North Park already having been completed, and a new park already being added in by the Homecoming Hill, the time has come for the older park to the North of

Homecoming Hill to be replaced. This is currently the main focus for the Rotary at the moment, along with other programs and efforts done to support the schools. Of course, raising money is not the only reason for holding the event. “We are looking to get as many people together as possible for our cause. It is another way we have to get everyone together for a fun night and music,” said Tara Dumas. Dumas also explained that the night was a group effort

and gave thanks to all those involved. “It has been pretty exciting. The only way all of this could have happened is with all the help we have received from volunteers.’

“Volunteers from in the Rotary and from the community. Many people and businesses have also donated and helped a lot with tonight. It is an important night for people to know that we exist to make the community better, but it didn’t happen without the help of everyone involved.”

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High School Baseball

VARSITY BASEBALL

Fayette’s

By: Joe Blystone THE VILLAGE REPORTER publisher@thevillagereporter.com

WALDRON (April 8, 2024) - On a day when a total eclipse turned the sky to dark, Fayette’s Wyatt Mitchell turned out the lights on Waldron by throwing a 14 strikeout five inning no-hitter in a 13-0 win in the first game of a doubleheader. And then on a day when the sun was totally covered in some areas, it was the sun the made the day too nice out...yes read this right... too nice to play past the first half inning of the second game, as the glare of the setting sun and then a lack of a way to ignite the field lights made the second game...well...unplay-

able because of nice weather. In the opener, Mitchell struck out the side in the first, then after losing a perfect game in the second on his own throwing error on a chopper in front of the mound, the senior lefty fanned the final 10 Spartan outs.

“Wyatt pitched a great game,” Eagle coach Matt Maginn expressed. “The only error we had was his own so besides that he had a really good game.”

“It gives us something to look forward to by getting a win at least in the first game. The second game I guess we can blame the eclipse and the sun coming back out.”

Shane Maginn gave the Eagles the only run they needed with a run scoring RBI single in the first and then came

home from second on a groundout for a 2-0 Fayette lead.

After marking a run without a hit in the second, Gavin Figgins’ two-run single was the big blow in a three-run third to push the margin to 6-0.

The Eagles scratched out a run in the fourth, again without a hit, then blew the game open with a six-run fifth.

A passed ball on a strikeout, a hit batter and an error loaded the sacks with no one out. A ground out scored a run, then Mitchell’s base hit to left brought in another before a wild pitch, a ground out, Hawk Brehm’s rope to center and another error padded the lead.

“We made some contact with runners on base.” Maginn said. “We took advantage of some walks and then getting run-

ners in scoring position with our legs.” Maginn and Brehm each had two hits out of the seven the Eagles accumulated.

FAYETTE 213 16 – 13 7 1

WALDRON 000 00 – 0 0 3

Records: Fayette 1-2

WINNING PITCHER: Mitchell (5 innings, 0 hits, 0 runs, 14 strikeouts, 0 walks)

LOSING PITCHER: Sam Williams (2 innings, 1 hit, 6 runs, 4 earned, 3 strikeouts, 2 walks) OTHER: Seth Williams LEADING HITTERS: (Fayette) Mitchell – single, 2 RBIs, 2 runs; Maginn – 2 singles, 2 RBIs, 3 runs; Leininger – 3 RBIs; Brehm – 2 singles, RBI; Figgins –single, 2 RBIs

By: Nate Calvin THE VILLAGE REPORTER sports@thevillagereporter.com

EDGERTON (April 8, 2024) – Terry Rebeck went 3-4, just a triple shy of hitting for the cycle, with three RBIs and scored three runs to lead Hilltop to a nonconference win at Edgerton, 11-6 It was Edgerton who took the early lead after the Cadets plated a run in their first at bat. Caden Leppelmeier and Maddox Baker started the bottom of the first with walks and Cory Herman then hit into a fielder’s choice as Leppelmeier was cut down advancing to third.

Edgerton would eventually load the

bases with two outs after a popout by Noah Weaver and a walk to Scottie Krontz. Braden Leppelmeier then cleared the bases as he lined a double to center, scoring all three Bulldogs, and giving Edgerton a 3-1 lead.

Hilltop struck back in the third behind a walk by Wade Wagner who would move to third on an error and then scored on a groundout by winning pitcher Cameron Schlosser to make it 3-2.

Rebeck would then get his first hit of the night as he blasted a solo home run to center to tie the game, 3-3.

Hilltop held off a bases loaded opportunity for Edgerton in the bottom of the third, took the lead with two runs in the

fourth, and then put the game away with a big fifth inning. Schlosser led off the frame with a single to center and Rebeck smacked a double to right to score Schlosser to make it 6-3.

A bunt single by Raace Haynes moved Rebeck to third, which led to Cameron Shimp lifting a sacrifice fly to center to bring home Rebeck to push the lead to 7-3.

The Cadets added two more runs in the inning thanks to an Edgerton error and a Brennan Dempsey single to give Hilltop a commanding 9-3 lead, which increased to 11-3 after two more runs in the sixth on RBI singles by Rebeck and Shimp.

HILLTOP 102

Records: Hilltop 4-3, Edgerton 2-3

WINNING PITCHER: Schlosser (3 innings, 3 hits, 3 runs, 3 earned, 4 walks, 2 strikeouts) OTHER: Dempsey, Rebeck

LOSING PITCHER: Krontz (4 innings, 5 hits, 7 runs, 6 earned, 2 strikeouts, 3 walks) OTHER: Martin, Elden

LEADING HITTERS: (Hilltop) Rebeck –home run, double, single, 3 RBIs, 3 runs; Schlosser – single, 2 RBIs, Shimp – single, 2 RBIs; B. Dempsey – 2 singles; (Edgerton) B. Leppelmeier – double, 3 RBIs; Baker –2 singles, RBI; Herman – 2 singles, RBI

By: Joe Blystone THE VILLAGE REPORTER publisher@thevillagereporter.com

METAMORA (April 9, 2024) - A wise man one time said, “Big game players make big plays in big games. And big game pitchers want the ball.”

After giving up a first inning run, Evergreen’s Brady Kanneman took the ball and shut Liberty Center down on three hits the rest of the way and led the Vikings to a 4-1 win on the first night of league play in the NWOAL.

“He’s been with us for three years and we have worked with his mentality on the mound such as when things don’t go your way to control what you can control,” explained Viking coach Mark Cymbolin.

“Tonight, he had it really going, he was pretty much lights out. He is going to be out there for league games and our big nonleague games. He pumped a lot of fastballs tonight and said, ‘here it comes, hit it’.”

Kanneman blew away the first two Tigers hitter on strikes in the first but walked Landon Amstutz to put a runner on base. Cleanup hitter Zack Weaver ripped a double off the center field fence to plate Amstutz to put the Tigers on top.

From the point on.....pffftttt. The Tigers offense was almost nil. LC got an Amstutz single and a walk to start the fourth, but Kanneman induced two fly balls and a strikeout to stuff the threat.

In the seventh, Landon Smith doubled with two down, but Kanneman whiffed the next hitter for the last of his 11 strikeouts in the game.

The Vikes got back even in the bottom of the first. Colton Robertson doubled, went to third on a wild pitch and sped home on Cory Kanneman’s chopper to knot the game back up.

Then in the third Evergreen opened a gap, as they tallied three more. An error, Robertson’s single then another base hit up the gut from Layne Vance gave Evergreen

the lead for keeps. Cory Kanneman’s bunt single loaded the bases and Bryce Bolger came up big in the moment with a shot to left that scored two more Vikings runs, for a 4-1 lead.

“He is in the cleanup spot for a reason,” Cymbolin said of Bolger. “He hit a strike and didn’t miss it, didn’t foul it off, wasn’t reaching, just relaxed and squared up a strike. He did what he is supposed to do in those situations.”

Evergreen had a chance to extend against the Tigers starter Heath Atkinson in the fourth when Sean Rafferty led off with a single and went to second on a balk. However, two botched bunt attempts and two groundouts killed that threat.

Cory Kanneman doubled into the left field corner starting the fifth and trotted to third on a passed ball, but Atkinson got three straight groundouts to stuff another rally.

Robertson and Cory Kanneman each had two hits as Evergreen had eight on the

day and played errorless baseball behind Kanneman. “This is what we preach,” Cymbolin said of the Vikings play in the field. “At least what we try to preach and hopefully it happens, and this is the way we want to play baseball, play it clean, play it right. It was a good overall performance and a bulldog mentality.”

L. CENTER 100 000 0 – 1 4 2

EVERGREEN 103 000 x – 4 8 0

Records: L. Center 3-2 (0-1 NWOAL), Evergreen 4-3 (1-0 NWOAL)

WINNING PITCHER: B. Kanneman (7 innings, 4 hits, 1 run, 11 strikeouts, 3 walks)

LOSING PITCHER: Atkinson (6 innings, 8 hits, 4 runs, 2 earned, 6 strikeouts, 1 walk)

LEADING HITTERS: (LC) – Weaver –double, RBI; Matthews – double; (Evergreen) Robertson – double, single, 2 runs; C. Kanneman – double, single, RBI; Bolger – single, 2 RBIs

last at-bat heroics from catcher Sean Rafferty in the first game of a doubleheader, Evergreen was the victim of more luckless episodes than Lemony Snicket’s Series of Unfortunate Events in the seventh of the nightcap and Edgerton took full advantage to take a 7-3 win and salvage a split of the twin bill at Evergreen.

Until that horrendous seventh, the Vikings Blade Walker had been twirling a Gerrit Cole-like performance.

The senior right-hander had given up just three hits, two of those in the fifth from Kellen Sanchez, and a chopper by Scottie Krontz that the Bulldog outfielder beat out for a hit that led to Caden Leppelmeier’s flyball that gave Edgerton a 1-0 lead.

Meanwhile the Vikings were victim of the “at-em” ball syndrome as it seemed every sharply hit ground ball or rocket to the outfield off Elijah Martin found their way into an Edgerton glove.

The Vikes finally broke through in the fifth when Walker’s solid single was followed by Chris Shrader’s pop fly that was misplayed into a hit.

Rafferty’s sacrifice moved the runners up and Colton Robertson’s sac fly

knotted the game. Evergreen took a 2-1 lead in the bottom of the sixth as Cory Kanneman lined a single to left and with two out, Hunter Vaculik singled through the hole and Walker followed with another base hit to give Evergreen a 2-1 lead.

Then? Came the numerous disasters that turned the game around. Sanchez walked and then came Walker’s wide pickoff throw to first, a passed ball, another on strike three to Martin that stole an out, allowed the Bulldog pitcher to reach first, and tie the game. A catcher interference, a muffed bases-loaded grounder to second amplified the Edgerton rally for three more runs along with Leppelmeier’s run scoring hit to expand the Bulldog lead to 7-2 before the Vikings could finally get out of the inning.

Martin went the distance for the win giving up 10 Viking hits, striking out two without walking a batter.

Walker deserved better as he went six allowing just five hits and two base on balls while whiffing four. Six of the seven Edgerton runs off him were unearned.

In the opener, the Vikings Layne Vance and Edgerton’s Kaden Kennerk took different avenues to a 1-1 deadlock in the fourth.

Vance was in control, giving up only two hits but was called for a balk with runners on first and third in the fourth to mark the Bulldogs first run.

The Vikings had tallied in the second on Robertson’s two-out, RBI single that gave the Vikes an early lead.

Kennerk got out of jam after jam to keep Edgerton in the game, escaping a second and third one down situation in the first, and two runners on with one out in the third.

In the fourth, the Vikes scored twice on three straight walks, a fielding error at third and Bryce Bolger’s fly ball to take a 3-1 lead.

Edgerton tied it in the sixth after Noah Weaver’s double and a pair of walks loaded the bases with no outs.

Kanneman came in and got a force play at the plate on a grounder but a Viking error, and a walk plated two runs to knot up the game.

Vance’s ringing RBI double to deep left regained a Viking lead in the bottom of the frame but Sanchez’ liner up the middle with two out in the seventh again brought Edgerton even.

Walker began the Vikes game winning rally in the seventh with a one-out base hit and a throwing error put Vikings at first and third.

Rafferty then came through with what a player should do in a runner on third and one out situation, lining a ball to center that Leppelmeier tracked down but had no chance to throw out Walker scoring the walk-off run. Kanneman was the winning pitch-

er while Cory Herman, who relieved Kennerk in the fifth, took the loss.

GAME 1

EDGERTON 000 102 1 –

High School Baseball Summaries

April 8, 2024

Paulding 5 Montpelier 4 (9 innings)

MONTPELIER –The teams combined for six runs in the seventh to force extras where Hunter Couts delivered the game winner for the Panthers with an RBI single in the ninth for a 5-4 win.

All nine of Montpelier’s hits were singles, led by two each from Kam Smith and Griffin Cooley.

PAULDING 000 000 401 – 5 5 5

MONTPELIER 011 000 200 – 4 9 2

Records: Paulding 3-1, Montpelier 2-3

WINNING PITCHER: Rhonehouse (2 innings, 4 hits, 2 runs, 1 earned, 3 strikeouts, 1 walk) OTHER: Agler

LOSING PITCHER: Stahler (2.1 innings. 2 hits, 3 runs, 3 earned, 3 strikeouts, 5 walks) OTHER: Sharps

LEADING HITTERS: (Paulding) Couts – double, single, RBI; (Montpelier) Cooley – 2 singles; Smith – 2 singles

Wayne Trace 7 Bryan 5

BRYAN – The Raiders led 7-1 after five innings and then held off a Bryan rally to grab a 7-5 nonleague win.

Jase Kepler and Elijah Fry each doubled for the Golden Bears and Cole Uran added two singles and two RBIs.

W. TRACE 012 400 0 – 7 8 0

BRYAN 000 104 0 – 5 8 2

Records: Wayne Trace 3-2, Bryan 4-1

WINNING PITCHER: Rosswurm (5 innings, 4 hits, 1 run, 3 strikeouts, 1 walk) OTHER: Head, Forrer

LOSING PITCHER: Carlin (3 innings, 2 hits, 5 runs, 4 earned, 3 strikeouts, 5 walks) OTHER: Huard, Kepler

LEADING HITTERS: (WT) Antoine –double, 2 RBIs; Head – double; Winans – 2 RBIs; Clemens – 2 singles; Gerber –2 singles, RBI; (Bryan) Kepler – double; Fry – double; Uran – 2 singles, 2 RBIs

April 9, 2024

Hilltop 14 Edon 3 (5 innings)

WEST UNITY – The Cadets blew the game open with 10 runs in the third to move to 2-0 in the BBC after a 14-3 win in five innings over Edon.

Hilltop had five players with two hits each led by Devin Dempsey (double, single) and Cameron Shimp with a triple and three runs knocked in.

EDON 010 11 – 3 3 4

HILLTOP 40(10) 0x – 14 10 2

Records: Edon 2-4 (1-1 BBC), Hilltop 5-3 (2-0 BBC)

WINNING PITCHER: Haynes (5 innings, 3 hits, 3 runs, 1 earned, 7 strikeouts, 1 walk)

LOSING PITCHER: Sapp (2.2 innings, 7 hits, 12 runs, 8 earned, 3 walks, 5 strikeouts) OTHER: Chrisman

LEADING HITTERS: (Hilltop) D. Dempsey – double, single, RBI, 2 runs; W. Wagner – 2 singles, RBI; Schlosser – 2 singles, RBI, 3 runs; Rebeck – 2 singles, RBI, 3 runs; Shimp – single, 3 RBIs, 2 runs; (Edon) Oberlin - double Holgate 10 Fayette 4

HOLGATE – The Tigers scored in every inning and pounded out 13 hits as a team in picking up their first win of the season to start BBC play.

Hawk Brehm fronted the Fayette lineup with a double and two RBIs.

FAYETTE 110 020 0 – 4 4 7

HOLGATE 112 222 x – 10 13 0

Records: Fayette 1-3 (0-2 BBC), Holgate 1-4 (1-0 BBC)

WINNING PITCHER: Z. Boecker (3.2 innings, 4 hits, 2 runs, 2 earned, 5

strikeouts, 0 walks)

OTHER: Peck, D. Boecker, Hoffer

LOSING PITCHER: Leininger (3 innings, 5 hits, 4 runs, 1 earned, 5 strikeouts, 0 walks) OTHER: Maginn

LEADING HITTERS: (Fayette) Brehm – double, 2 RBIs; (Holgate) D. Boecker – double, single, 3 runs; Z. Boecker –double, 2 RBIs; Hartman – single, 2 RBIs; Medina – single, 2 RBIs; Hoffer – double, single; Peck – 2 singles, RBI; Thome – triple, double, 2 RBIs

Montpelier 9 Stryker 0

MONTPELIER – Loco pitcher Kenneth Smeltzer recorded his second nohitter in five days to lead Montpelier past Stryker 9-0.

Smeltzer also was 2-2 at the plate with two RBIs and Landon Fackler had a double, single, and knocked in one run.

STRYKER 000 000 0 – 0 0 1

MONTPELIER 303 300 x – 9 6 0

Records: Stryker 0-3 (0-2 BBC), Montpelier 3-3 (2-0 BBC)

WINNING PITCHER: Smeltzer (7 innings, 0 hits, 0 runs, 8 strikeouts, 1 walk)

LOSING PITCHER: Cadwell (4 innings, 6 hits, 9 runs 8 earned, 1 strikeout, 6 walks) OTHER: LaBo

LEADING HITTERS: (Montpelier) Fackler – single double, RBI, 2 runs; Smeltzer – double, single, 2 RBIs, 3 runs

North Central 14 Pettisville 0 (5 innings)

PIONEER – Connor Gendron cleared the fence with a three-run homer as part of a 10-run third inning for the Eagles in a 14-0 mercy rule win over Pettisville. Gendron totaled four RBIs on the night and Kade Stewart added a single and two runs batted in.

PETTISVILLE 000 00 – 0 2 4

N. CENTRAL 00(10) 4x – 14 10 2

Records: Pettisville 1-3 (0-2 BBC), N. Central 3-2 (1-0 BBC)

WINNING PITCHER: Hicks (5 innings, 2 hits, 0 runs, 8 strikeouts, 3 walks)

three-hitter with 16 strikeouts to earn the win on the hill for the Patriots.

P. HENRY 000 004 2 – 6 10 2

SWANTON 000 000 0 – 0 3 0

Records: P. Henry 5-1 (1-0 NWOAL), Swanton 3-2 (0-1 NWOAL)

WINNING PITCHER: Hieber (7 innings, 3 hits, 0 runs, 16 strikeouts, 0 walks)

LOSING PITCHER: Lemon (6 innings, 8 hits, 5 runs, 4 earned, 5 strikeouts, 2 walks) OTHER: O’Shea

LEADING HITTERS: (PH) Lan. Johnson – double, single; Jardine – 2 singles, 2 RBIs; Miranda – double, RBI; (Swanton) – Harris – 2 singles

Defiance 7 Wauseon 5

DEFIANCE – Defiance clawed back from an early 3-1 hole to score six runs over the last four innings to knock off Wauseon 7-5.

Mason Thomas paced the Wauseon effort with a three-hit game and three RBIs.

WAUSEON 120 011 0 – 5 6 1

DEFIANCE 102 211 x – 7 8 0

Records: Wauseon 2-4, Defiance 5-1

WINNING PITCHER: Lignon (5.2 innings, 6 hits, 5 runs, 5 earned, 9 strikeouts, 5 walks) OTHER: Borton, Zipfel

LOSING PITCHER: Schneider (4 innings, 5 hits, 5 earned, 1 strikeout, 4 walks) OTHER: Clymer LEADING HITTERS: (Wauseon) Thomas – triple, double, single, 3 RBIs; Schneider – 3 runs, single; (Defiance) Borton – 2 singles, RBI, 2 runs; Long –double, single 2 RBIs; Gomez – double; Gar. Rodenberger – double

April 10, 2024

Patrick Henry 14 Delta 2 (5 innings)

DELTA – Nine runs in the second and five more in the third led the way for the Patriots in a 14-2 win at Delta.

Mack Hieber, Nash Meyer, and Houston Miranda led the Patriot hitting attack with two hits and two RBIs apiece.

DELTA 000 20 – 2 4 5

P. HENRY 095 0x – 14 11 3

LEADING HITTERS: (Swanton) Harris – double, single, 2 RBIs, 2 runs; Lemon – 2 doubles, RBI, 2 runs; Smigelski – 2 singles, RBI; (SC) Wilkinson- double, single, 3 RBIs, 3 runs; Illenden – 2 singles, 2 RBIs, 3 runs; Preston – 2 singles, 3 RBIs, 2 runs; Schamberger – 3 singles, 4 RBIs; Sutherland – 2 singles; Kaufman – 2 singles, 2 runs

April 13, 2024

Swanton 9 Rossford 8

ROSSFORD – Isaiah Bolyard drove in the game winning run on a single to center as Swanton stunned Rossford with six runs in the seventh for a 9-8 come from behind win.

Bolyard finished the game 2-4 with two RBIs and Zach Smith added a double and knocked in a pair of runs.

SWANTON 001 200 6 – 9 8 7

ROSSFORD 012 320 0 – 8 10 1

Records: Swanton 4-3, Rossford 4-3

WINNING PITCHER: Smith (2 innings, 0 hits, 2 runs, 0 strikeouts, 1 walk) OTHER: Lemons, Lemon

LOSING PITCHER: Yerkes (0.2 innings, 2 hits, 2 runs, 0 strikeouts, 1 walk) OTHER: Walder, Reiter

LEADING HITTERS: (Swanton) Smith – double, 2 RBIs; Bolyard – 2 singles, 2 RBIs; Lemon – 2 singles, RBI; (Rossford) Nusbaum – double, 2 RBIs; Walder – triple, double, single, RBI, 3 runs; Kirkman – double, single, 2 RBIs 2 runs; Taddonio – 2 singles; Knorek – 2 singles

North Central 9 Hudson, MI 5

PIONEER – The Eagles raced out to an 8-0 lead, aided by a two-run blast from Connor Gendron on their way to 9-5 win in game one of a twin bill with the Hudson Tigers.

Ben Pettit added three singles for the home team and Kade Stewart chipped in with a triple, double, and RBI.

HUDSON 000 014 0 – 5 9 2

N. CENTRAL 241 101 x – 9 11 0

Records: Hudson 2-3, North Central 4-2

LOSING PITCHER: C. Bishop (2.1 innings, 8 hits, 8 runs, 8 earned, 1 strikeout, 1 walk)

Records: Patrick Henry 6-1 (2-0 NWOAL), Delta 1-5, (0-1 NWOAL)

OTHER: Warner, R. Bishop

LEADING HITTERS: (Pettisville) –2 singles; (NC) Gendron – home run, single, 4 RBIs; Meyers – double, single, RBI; Stewart – single, 2 RBIs; Pettit –double, RBI

Ayersville 5 Edgerton 4

AYERSVILLE – Owen Lloyd had two singles and drove in three runs as the Pilots held off Edgerton in the seventh inning to pull out a 5-4 GMC win.

Maddox Baker and Noah Weaver had two singles apiece for the Bulldogs.

EDGERTON 001 100 2 – 4 8 1

AYERSVILLE 003 020 x – 5 9 4

Records: Edgerton 2-4 (0-1 GMC), Ayersville 3-2 (1-0 GMC)

WINNING PITCHER: Delano (5 innings, 6 hits, 2 runs, 0 earned, 9 strikeouts, 0 walks)

OTHER: Amoroso, Lloyd

LOSING PITCHER: Herman (6 innings, 9 hits, 5 runs, 5 earned, 2 strikeouts, 1 walk)

LEADING HITTERS: (Edgerton) C. Leppelmeier – double, RBI; Baker – 2 singles, RBI; Weaver – 2 singles, RBI; (Ayersville) – 2 singles, 2 runs; Lloyd – 2 singles, 3 RBIs

Patrick Henry 6 Swanton 0

SWANTON – The Patriots broke a scoreless tie with a four spot in the sixth to get a 6-0 road win in their NWOAL opener.

Mack Hieber tossed a complete game

WINNING PITCHER: Schroeder (4 innings, 3 hits, 2 runs, 1 earned, 5 strikeouts, 2 walks) OTHER: Jackson

LOSING PITCHER: Waugh (2.1 innings, 10 hits, 8 runs, 6 earned, 2 strikeouts, 2 walks) OTHER: Brown, Morr

LEADING HITTERS: (PH) Jackson –double; Neyer – double, single, 2 RBIs; L. Johnson – single, 2 RBIs; Miranda – 2 singles, 2 RBIs; Hieber - 2 singles, RBI, 2 runs; Biederstedt – single, 2 RBIs; (Delta) – 4 singles; (PH)

Sand Creek (MI) 16 Swanton 6 (6 innings)

SAND CREEK – The top four of the Sand Creek batting order accounted for nine hits and 12 RBIs as the Aggies stayed undefeated after a 16-6 win over Swanton. Adam Lemon had two doubles for the Bulldogs and Drake Harris tallied a double, single and knocked in two runs.

SWANTON 113 100 – 6 9 6

S. CREEK 060 163 – 16 14 0

Records: Sand Creek 7-0, Swanton 3-3

WINNING PITCHER: Schamberger (3 innings, 2 hits, 1 run, 2 strikeouts, 1 walk) OTHER: Wilkinson, Hulett

LOSING PITCHER: Bond (2.2 innings, 4 hits, 5 runs, 4 earned, 2 strikeouts, 1 walk) OTHER: Bolyard, Lemons, Smith, O’Shea

WINNING PITCHER: Poynter (3 innings, 2 hits, 0 runs, 6 strikeouts 0 walks) OTHER: Hicks, Pettit

LOSING PITCHER: Timm (5 hits, 6 runs, 6 3 strikeouts, 6 walks) OTHER: Yatzik

LEADING HITTERS: (Hudson) Bertram - 2 singles; Seeger – single, 2 RBIs; Walker – double, RBI; Taylor – double; (NC) Gendron – home run, 2 RBIs; Stewart – triple, double, RBI; Pettit – 3 singles; C. Meyers – 2 singles

North Central 10 Hudson, MI 6

PIONEER – Cohen Meyers drove in three runs on the strength of two singles to help North Central get a 10-6 win and a sweep of Hudson.

Connor Gendron, Tyler Meyers, and Ben Pettit each had two hits for the Eagles with Meyers and Pettit each driving in two runs.

HUDSON 140 100 0 – 6 11 1

N. CENTRAL 360 001 x – 10 13 2

Records: Hudson 2-4, North Central 5-2

WINNING PITCHER: T. Meyers (2.1 innings, 5 hits,

High School Softball

North Central Capitalizes On Pettisville

By: Nate Calvin

THE VILLAGE REPORTER sports@thevillagereporter.com

PIONEER (April 10, 2024) – North Central took advantage of five errors by the Blackbirds to get a 6-2 win in the BBC opener for the Eagles.

North Central’s first two runs came in the bottom of the opening inning as three ground balls resulted in three Pettisville errors and put a pair of runs on the board for the Eagles.

Pettisville used a two-out rally to get on the board in the third as Morgan Blosser drew a walk, advanced to second on an error, and then scored on a

single to left by Kelsey Bennett to make it 2-1. The Blackbirds tied the game in the fifth with another two-out rally that started with a walk by Blosser. Blosser advanced to second on a passed ball and Bennett would drive in her second run of the night, this time on a double to center, to tie the score at 2-2.

North Central regained the lead in the bottom the fifth beginning with Amara Wright reaching on an error with one out.

Ashlynn Martin followed with a single to center to move Wright to third and Darbi Stewart grounded out to the

Pettisville pitcher S. Beltz to bring home Wright and make it 3-2.

The Eagles put the game on ice in the sixth as Lilly McMillen singled, Ava Gruber walked, and Madison West reached in the fifth error of the night, scoring McMillen to extend the lead to 4-2.

The Eagles then capped off their scoring as Ava Livengood and Gracie Zuver each added RBI groundouts before a Stewart groundout ended the inning.

Stewart went the distance in the circle for North Central allowing just four hits with nine strikeouts to get the win.

PETTISVILLE 001 010 0 – 2 4 5

N. CENTRAL 200 013 x – 6 4 1

Records: Pettisville 1-3 (0-2 BBC), N. Central 1-4 (1-0 BBC)

WINNING PITCHER: Stewart (7 innings, 4 hits, 2 runs, 0 earned, 9 strikeouts, 2 walks)

LOSING PITCHER: Hoylman (6 innings, 4 hits, 6

Bennett finished with two hits and two RBIs for Pettisville while Olivia Miller had two singles.

High School Softball Summaries

April 8, 2024

Montpelier 7 Fairview 2

MONTPELIER – Madelyn Hopper fired a complete game and struck out 13 as Montpelier handed Fairview their first loss of the season. Hopper also homered along with teammate Kelsi Bumb who also singled and had two RBIs.

FAIRVIEW 001 100 0 – 2 4 1

MONTPELIER 111 013 x – 7 11 1

Records: Fairview 3-1, Montpelier 4-3

WINNING PITCHER: Hopper (7 innings, 4 hits, 2 runs, 1 earned, 13 strikeouts, 2 walks)

LOSING PITCHER: Merritt (5.2 innings, 11 hits, 7 runs, 6 earned, 3 strikeouts, 0 walks) OTHER: Peck

LEADING HITTERS: (Fairview) Mavis – double; (Montpelier) Ly. Mahan –double, single, RBI; Jacob – 2 singles, RBI; Bumb – home run, single, 2 RBIs, 3 runs; Hopper – home run, single; Terry - double

Edgerton 19 North Central 0 (5 innings)

EDGERTON – The Bulldogs scored 13 runs in the third inning to pick up a 19-0 nonleague win over North Central. Edgerton totaled 18 hits on the night paced by Casey Everetts, Corinne Cape, Olivia Wallace, and Ella Miler with three apiece and Wallace also adding five RBIs.

N. CENTRAL 000 00 – 0 1 3

EDGERTON 21(13) 3x – 19 18 0

Records: North Central 0-4, Edgerton 4-1

WINNING PITCHER: Wallace (5 innings, 1 hit, 9 strikeouts, 1 walk)

LOSING PITCHER: Stewart (2.1 innings, 10 hits, 11 runs, 9 earned, 3 strikeouts, 0 walks) OTHER: Wright, West

LEADING HITTERS: (NC) – 1 single; (Edgerton) Everetts – double, 2 singles, RBI, 4 runs; Farnham – double, RBI; Wallace – double, 2 singles, 5 RBIs, 3 runs; Cape – 2 doubles, single, 2 RBIs, 4 runs; Miler – double, 2 singles, 2 RBIs; Giesige – 2 singles, 2 RBIs

Waldron, MI 15 Fayette 14

WALDRON, MI – Fayette fought back from down 12-4 to tie the game at 13-13 before falling to the Spartans 15-14 in nonleague softball.

Emersyn Sinks and Zoie Brown had two singles each for the Eagles with Brown also driving in a pair of runs in the setback.

FAYETTE 220 271 – 14 5 1

WALDRON 633 102 – 15 8 1

Records: Fayette 0-3

WINNING PITCHER: Gorsuch (5.2 innings, 8 hits, 14 runs, 13 earned, 8 strikeouts, 11 walks

LOSING PITCHER: Boyd (1.2 innings, 1 hit, 0 run, 3 strikeouts, 3 walks) OTHER: Kurtz

LEADING HITTERS: (Fayette) Sinks – two singles, RBI; Brown – 2 singles, 2 RBIs; (Waldron) Kurtz – home run, double, single 3 RBIs, 3 runs; M. Burk – 2 singles, 2 RBIs, 3 runs; Brockway – 2 singles, 2 RBIs

April 9, 2024

Hilltop 12 Edon 0 (5 innings)

WEST UNITY – Kelsy Connolly allowed just four hits while striking out 12 to earn the win in the circle and was 2-3 at the dish with two RBIs in a 12-0 win over Edon.

EDON

000 00 – 0 4 5

HILLTOP 207 30 – 12 11 0

Records: Edon 0-6 (0-1 BBC), Hilltop 6-3, 2-0 BBC)

WINNING PITCHER: Connolly (5 innings, 4 hits, 0 runs, 12 strikeouts, 1 walk)

LOSING PITCHER: Tracey (3 innings, 8 hits, 9 runs, 1 strikeout, 2 walks)

OTHER: Anspaugh

LEADING HITTERS: (Edon) Anspaugh – double; (Hilltop) VanArsdalen – double, RBI; Connolly – double, single, 2 RBIs, 2 runs; Jones – double, single, RBI; Layman – double, 2 singles, 2 RBIs; Ackley – 2 singles, 2 RBIs

Holgate 15 Fayette 0 (5 innings)

HOLGATE – Greyson Jones registered 12 strikeouts as she threw first no-hitter in school history to help Holgate bounce Fayette 15-0.

Lilian Kirkland led the offense for the Tigers with a pair of singles and three runs batted in.

FAYETTE 000 00 – 0 0 6

HOLGATE 239 1 x – 15 6 2

Records: Fayette 0-4 (0-1 BBC), Holgate 2-2 (1-0 BBC)

WINNING PITCHER: Jones (5 innings, 0 hits, 0 runs, 12 strikeouts, 0 walks)

LOSING PITCHER: Sinks (3.1 innings, 6 hits, 13 runs, 5 earned, 2 strikeouts, 7 walks) OTHER: Ramay

LEADING HITTERS: (Holgate) Kirkland – 2 singles, 3 RBIs; Pennington – 2 RBIs; Blaker – 2 RBIs

Montpelier 20 Stryker 1 (5 innings)

MONTPELIER – Montpelier racked up 20 hits on the night, including eight for extra bases, to roll past Stryker 20-1 and improve to 2-0 in the BBC.

Jada Uribes fronted the hit parade with two doubles, a single and four RBIs while winning pitcher Madelyn Hopper added three singles and drove in three runs.

STRYKER 100 00 – 1 3 4

MONTPELIER 4(10)4 2x – 20 20 1

Records: Stryker 0-5 (0-2 BBC), Montpelier 5-3 (2-0 BBC)

WINNING PITCHER: Hopper (4 innings, 1 hit, 1 run, 11 strikeouts, 3 walks) OTHER: J. Uribes LOSING PITCHER: Rethmel (4 innings, 20 hits, 20 runs, 14 earned, 2 strikeouts, 5 walks)

LEADING HITTERS: (Stryker) Rethmel – 2 singles; (Montpelier) Beck –double, single, RBI; Li. Mahan – double, single 2 RBIs, 4 runs; Dick – double, single, RBI, 3 runs; Terry – double, 3 RBIs; Bumb – double, single, 2 RBIs, 3 runs; Hopper – 3 singles, 3 RBIs; J. Uribes – 2 doubles, single, 4 RBIs; Ly. Mahan – double, RBI

Swanton 9 Patrick Henry 1

SWANTON – Taylor Forrest fired a complete game three-hitter and added a single with RBIs at the plate to lead Swanton past Patrick Henry 9-1.

Jordyn Ramirez topped Swanton in hits with three singles while Lyla Carrizales and Alexa Faber each singled twice.

P. HENRY 000 010 0 – 1 3 3

SWANTON 300 114 x – 9 9 1

Records: P. Henry 2-4 (0-1 BBC), Swanton 6-1 (1-0 NWOAL)

LOSING PITCHER: Boyer (6 innings, 9 hits, 9 runs, 6 earned, 2 strikeouts, 1 walk)

LEADING HITTERS: (PH) Behnfeldt –2 singles; (Swanton) Carrizales – 2 singles, RBI, 2 runs; Ramirez – 3 singles, RBI, 2 runs; Faber – 2 singles, RBI, 2 runs; Forrest – singles, 3 RBIs

Liberty Center 11 Evergreen 0

METAMORA – Liberty Center used a five-run third inning to pull away to beat Evergreen 11-0 in their NWOAL opener.

Bea Barrett collected three hits and knocked in two runs for the Tigers and Emma St. Clair added a double, single, and two RBIs.

L. CENTER 105 110 3 – 11 14 3

EVERGREEN 000 000 0 – 0 8 3

Records: L. Center 6-0 (1-0 NWOAL), Evergreen 1-3, (0-1 NWOAL)

WINNING PITCHER: Perry (4 innings, 5 hits, 0 runs, 2 strikeouts, 1 walk) OTHER: Kessler

LOSING PITCHER: Keller (7 innings, 14 hits, 11 runs, 5 earned, 8 strikeouts, 5 walks)

LEADING HITTERS: (LC) Barrett – double, 2 singles, 2 RBIs; Jones –single, RBI, 2 runs; St. Clair – double, single, 2 RBIs, 2 runs; Zientek – double, single; Gray – triple, single, RBI, 2 runs; (Evergreen) Vaculik – 2 singles; McVey – 2 singles

Ayersville 2 Edgerton 1

AYERSVILLE – Edgerton opened the game with a single by Lola Giesige and an RBI double from Casey Everetts to take a 1-0 lead, but Ayersville scored two in the fourth for a 2-1 win to begin GMC play.

Everetts later singled for a two-hit night and Ava Giesige would add two singles.

EDGERTON 100 000 0 – 1 6 1

AYERSVILLE 000 200 x – 2 6 1

Records: Edgerton 4-2 (0-1 GMC), Ayersville 2-1 (1-0 GMC)

WINNING PITCHER: Waldron (7 innings, 6 hits, 1 run, 10 strikeouts, 2 walks)

LOSING PITCHER: Cape (6 innings, 6 hits, 2 runs, 8 strikeouts, 2 walk)

LEADING HITTERS: (Edgerton) Everetts – double, single; A. Giesige –2 singles; (Ayersville) Sierra – double; Brown – solo home run; Eldridge – 2 singles, RBI

Bryan 8 Liberty-Benton 2

FINDLAY – Bryan exploded for seven runs in the fourth inning as they handed Liberty-Benton their first loss of the year, 8-2. Thea Staten pitched five innings allowing no hits with nine strikeouts to earn the win and went 3-4 hitting with a triple, double, single, and two RBIs.

BRYAN 010 700 0 – 8 10 0

L. BENTON 000 002 0 – 2 1 4

Records: Bryan 4-2, L. Benton 6-1

WINNING PITCHER: Staten (5 innings, 0 hits, 0 runs, 9 strikeouts, 1 walk) OTHER: Langham

LOSING PITCHER: Knapke (7 innings, 9 hits, 8 runs, 4 earned, 7 strikeouts, 1 walk)

LEADING HITTERS: (Bryan) Staten –triple, double, single, 2 RBIs; Thiel – 2 singles, 2 runs; Stever – single, 2 RBIs; (LB) – 1 single

Wauseon 12 Rossford 5

WINNING PITCHER: Forrest (7 innings, 3 hits, 1 run, 10 strikeouts, 1 walk)

WAUSEON – Ava Kovar and Kayla

Menningen each had home runs and Ella Hageman earned the win in the circle as Wauseon beat Rossford 12-5.

Aubrianna Everly added to the Indians’ 11-hit night with two doubles, a single, and three RBIs.

ROSSFORD 000 500 0 – 5 9 3

WAUSEON 234 300 – 12 11 1

Records: Rossford 1-5, Wauseon 5-2

WINNING PITCHER: Hageman (4 innings, 8 hits, 5 runs, 3 earned, 2 strikeouts, o walks) OTHER: Ledyard

LOSING PITCHER: Rodriguez (6 innings, 12 hits, 12 runs, 9 earned, 3 strikeouts, 1 walk)

LEADING HITTERS: (Rossford) Extine – double, 2 RBIs; Rodriguez – double, single, RBI; Knudsen – 2 singles; (Wauseon) Kovar – home run, RBI, 2 runs; Menningen – home run, 2 RBIs; Bronson – double, 2 RBIs; Everly – 2 doubles, single, 3 RBIs, 3 runs; McGuire – double, single, 2 runs; Hageman – single, 2 RBIs

April 10, 2024

Delta 4 Patrick Henry 0

DELTA – Pelton allowed just two hits with six strikeouts in seven innings of work as Delta beat Patrick Henry 4-0 to start NWOAL play.

Jasey Spiess and Ellie Martinez each had a double and single with Martinez also adding two RBIs.

DELTA 101 020 2 – 4 9 0

P. HENRY 000 000 0 – 0 2 1

Records: P. Henry 2-6 (0-2 NWOAL), Delta 2-4 (1-0 NWOAL)

WINNING PITCHER: Pelton (7 innings, 2 hits, 0 runs, 6 strikeouts, 3 walks)

LOSING PITCHER: Boyer (7 innings, 9 hits, 4 runs, 3 earned, 4 strikeouts, 0 walks)

LEADING HITTERS: (Delta) Spiess – double, single, RBI, 2 runs; Martinez – double, single, 2 RBIs; Friess – 3 singles, 2 runs; (PH) Rosengarten - double

Hilltop 6 Montpelier 2

MONTPELIER – The Cadets put the game away with three runs in the seventh as they beat Montpelier in a BBC nonleague matchup of last year’s cochamps in the conference.

Sophie Graham went 3-4 to lead Hilltop with two singles, a double and an RBI and Giada Rising tossed a complete game to earn the win behind 11 strikeouts.

Maggie Jacob and Neriah Thorp each had RBI singles for Montpelier in the loss.

HILLTOP 010 002 3 – 6 10 2

MONTPELIER 001 000 1 – 2 4 4

Records: Hilltop 7-3, Montpelier 5-4

WINNING PITCHER: Rising (7 innings, 3 hits, 2 runs, 0 earned, 11 strikeouts, 0 walk)

LOSING PITCHER: J. Uribes (7 innings, 11 hits, 6 runs, 1 earned, 4 strikeouts, 6 walks)

LEADING HITTERS: (Hilltop) Jones –double, RBI; Graham – 2 singles, double, RBI, 2 runs; Crossgrove – double, RBI; Layman – 2 singles, Brown – 2 singles; (Montpelier) Hopper – double

Swanton 15 Ottawa Hills 2 (5 innings)

SWANTON – The Bulldogs needed just four hits to produce 15 runs thanks in part to 12 walks issued by Green Bears pitching to get the 15-2 win in five innings.

Swanton’s Alexa Faber went the distance in the circle for the win while also

A double by Makayla Anspaugh accounted for the lone Edon extra base hit in the game.

Records: O. Hills 0-2, Swanton 7-1

WINNING PITCHER: Faber (5 innings, 4 hits, 2 runs, 2 earned, 7 strikeouts, 1 walk)

LOSING PITCHER: Sowle (4 innings, 4 hits, 15 runs, 12 earned, 2 strikeouts, 12 walks)

LEADING HITTERS: (OH) Potts – home run, single, RBI; Brandstatter – double, RBI; (Swanton) Forrest –double, 2 RBIs; DeTray – double; Faber – home run, 3 RBIs, 2 runs

April 13, 2024

Tol. Central Catholic 3 Swanton 2

SWANTON – Down by two in the seventh, the Bulldogs scored one run and later had the tying run at third with two outs, but the Irish were able to get a strikeout to secure a 3-2 win.

Taylor Forrest struck out eight in taking the loss and had a double, Swanton’s lone extra base hit of the day.

SWANTON 010 000 1 – 2 4 1

TOLEDO CC 200 100 x – 3 7 2

Records: Swanton 7-2, TCC 3-3

WINNING PITCHER: Schuberg (7 innings, 3 hits, 2 runs, 1 earned, 12 strikeouts, 0 walks)

LOSING PITCHER: Forrest (6 innings, 6 hits, 3 runs, 1 earned, 8 strikeouts, 0 walks)

LEADING HITTERS: (Swanton) Forrest – double; (TCC) Coleman – double, 2 singles; Schuberg – 2 singles

Swanton 18 Tol. Central Catholic 5 (6 innings)

SWANTON – Swanton earned a split of the doubleheader by tallying 10 runs in the sixth inning to close out an 18-5 win.

Alexa Faber took the win in the circle while also going 4-4 at the plate with two doubles, two singles, four RBIs, and scored five runs.

SWANTON 240 02(10) – 18 17 0

TOLEDO CC 102 200 – 5 6 8

Records: Swanton 8-2, TCC 3-4

WINNING PITCHER: Faber (6 innings, 7 hits, 5 runs, 5 earned, 1 strikeout, 0 walks)

LOSING PITCHER: Brinkman (2 innings, 4 hits, 6 runs, 2 earned, 3 strikeouts, 2 walks) Schuberg, Rayfield

LEADING HITTERS: (Swanton) LaGrange – home run, RBI, 2 runs; Wilson – double; Faber – 2 doubles, 2 singles, 4 RBIs, 5 runs; Carrizales – double, 2 singles, 3 RBIs, 3 runs; Ramirez – 3 singles, RBI, 4 runs; Forrest – 3 singles, 2 RBIs; (TCC) Martinez – home run, double, 2 RBIs, 2 runs; Coleman – 2 doubles, RBI, 2 runs; Kitz – single, 2 RBIs

Hicksville 8 Delta 3

HICKSVILLE – The Aces collected 14 hits and took the lead with a five-spot in the third on their way to an 8-3 win game one of a doubleheader with Delta.

Jasey Spiess and Ryllie Taylor each had a double for the Panthers,

DELTA 000 001 2 – 3 4 3

HICKSVILLE 005 201 x – 8 14 0

Records: Delta 2-5, Hicksville 3-3

WINNING PITCHER: Adams (7 innings, 5 hits, 3 runs, 8 strikeouts, 2 walks)

LOSING PITCHER: Pelton (6 innings, 15 hits, 8 runs, 7 earned, 4 strikeouts, 4 walks)

LEADING HITTERS: (Delta) Spiess – double; Taylor – double; (Hicksville) Rice – 2 singles, RBI; Porter – 2 doubles, RBI; Adams – 2 singles, RBI; Price – 2 singles, 2 RBIs, 2 runs; Nelson – 3 singles, RBI

Hicksville 7 Delta 5

HICKSVILLE – Hicksville erased a 2-1 Delta lead with six runs in the fourth and then held off a Panther rally to win game two 7-5.

Mackenzie Clapp and Jasey Spiess each had two hits and two RBIs for Delta in the loss.

DELTA 002 020 1 – 5 7 8

HICKSVILLE 001 600 x – 7 9 3

Records: Delta 2-6, Hicksville 4-3

WINNING PITCHER: Keeley (7 innings, 7 hits, 5 runs, 1 earned, 2 strikeouts, 2 walks)

LOSING PITCHER: Clapp (6 innings, 7 hits, 7 runs, 0 earned, 6 strikeouts, 1 walk)

LEADING HITTERS: (Delta) Clapp –double, single, 2 RBIs; Spiess – 2 singles, 2 RBIs; Martinez – double; Spiess – 2 singles, 2 RBIs; (Hicksville) Clark – double, RBI; Baird – double, single, 2 RBIs; Sanders – triple, RBI; Rice – 2 singles, RBI

Hilltop 6 Wauseon 1

WEST UNITY – Sophia Crossgrove went deep, and Kelsy Connolly had a double and two RBIs to lead Hilltop past Wauseon 6-1.

Bella McGuire and Shelby Leija each singled twice for the Indians with McGuire also adding an RBI.

WAUSEON 010 000 0 – 1 6 1

HILLTOP 113 010 x – 6 7 2

Records: Wauseon 5-3, Hilltop 8-3

WINNING PITCHER: Rising (7 innings, 6 hits, 1 run, 8 strikeouts, 2 walks)

LOSING PITCHER: Ledyard (6 innings, 6 hits, 6 runs, 4 earned, 3 strikeouts, 2 walks)

LEADING HITTERS: (Wauseon) McGuire – 2 singles, RBI; Leija – 2 singles; (Hilltop) Connolly – double, 2 RBIs; Kuszmaul – double, 2 runs; Crossgrove – home run, single, RBI; Jones – 2 singles, 2 runs

Hilltop 4 Wauseon 0

WEST UNITY – Kelsy Connolly shutdown the Wauseon bats, holding them to just two hits and racked up eight strikeouts as Hilltop blanked Wauseon 4-0 to complete the sweep. Halle Jones was 2-3 with a double and single to pace the Cadets offense.

WAUSEON 000 000 0 – 0 2 3

HILLTOP 200 020 x – 4 6 1

Records: Wauseon 5-4, Hilltop 9-3

WINNING PITCHER: Connolly (7 innings, 2 hits, 0 runs, 8 strikeouts, 0 walks)

LOSING PITCHER: Hageman – (6 innings, 4 hits, 4 runs, 0 earned, 1 strikeout, 1 walk)

LEADING HITTERS: (Wauseon) – 2 singles; (Hilltop) Jones – double, single

Springfield 8 Bryan 0

SPRINGFIELD – Springfield seized control of a scoreless game after three innings by scoring all their runs in their last three at bats to move to 7-1 in the season.

Langham accounted for two of Bryan’s three hits with a pair of singles.

BRYAN 000 000 0 – 0 3 1

SPRINGFIELD 000 422 x – 8 12 0

Records: Bryan 4-3, Springfield 7-1

WINNING PITCHER: Chappetta (7 innings, 3 hits, 0 runs, 6 strikeouts, 1 walk)

LOSING PITCHER: Staten (5 innings, 9 hits, 6 runs, 3 earned, 5 strikeouts, 1 walk) OTHER: Nagel

LEADING HITTERS: (Bryan) Langham – 2 singles; (Springfield) Hall – 2 singles, 2 RBIs; Littin – home run, 2 RBIs; Eckhart – home run, single RBI; Schlachter – home run, 2 RBIs; Rompf – double, single

Maumee 15 Bryan 0 (6 innings)

SPRINGFIELD – Maumee totaled 18 hits on the day and scored 10 runs in the sixth to finish off a 15-0 win over Bryan in six innings.

Hannah Ruiz took the win for the Panthers, going six innings and allowing just four singles by the Golden Bear hitters.

MAUMEE 002 21(10) – 15 18 0

BRYAN 000 000 – 0 4 4

Records: Maumee 5-5, Bryan 4-4

WINNING PITCHER: Ruiz (6 innings, 4 hits, 0 runs, 4 strikeouts, 3 walks)

LOSING PITCHER: Langham (5.1 innings, 11 hits, 5 runs, 3 earned, 3 strikeouts, 3 walks) OTHER: Blevins

LEADING HITTERS: (Maumee)

Smith 0 triple, double, single, 3 RBIs, 2 runs; Gugger – 2 singles, 2 RBIs, 2 runs; Duling – double, 3 runs; Hurt – 4 singles, RBI, 3 runs; Maier – 3 singles, 2 RBIs, Brooks – 3 singles, RBI; (Bryan) – 4 singles

Hudson, MI 22 North Central 0 (5 innings)

PIONEER – Hudson started the doubleheader in a big way led by Teagan Arredondo with five hits and nine RBIs

HUDSON 858 10 – 22 17 1

N. CENTRAL 000 00 – 0 5 4

Records: Hudson 4-1, N. Central 1-5

WINNING PITCHER: Arredondo (5 innings, 5 hits, 0 runs, 9 strikeouts, 1 walk)

LOSING PITCHER: Stewart (1 inning, 4 hits, 8 runs, 3 earned, 2 strikeouts, 3 walks)

LEADING HITTERS: (Hudson) Arredondo - home run, 2 doubles, 2 singles, 9 RBIs, 3 runs; Kopin – home run, RBI, 3 runs; Weber – double, RBI, 2 runs; Clark – double, single, RBI, 2 runs; Horwath – 2 singles, 4 runs; Anderson – 3 singles, RBI, 2 runs; Rowan – 2 singles; Rogers – single, 3 RBIs, 3 runs; (NC) Wright – double; Livengood – 2 singles

Hudson, MI 22 North Central 8 (5 innings)

PIONEER – Hudson took advantage of seven errors by the Eagles that led to 10 of their 22 runs being unearned as they rolled in game two to finish off a sweep of North Central. Madison West went 2-3 at the plate and knocked in three runs for North Central while Amara Wright was 2-4.

HUDSON 633 (10)0 – 22 16 1

N. CENTRAL 420 20 – 8 8 7

Records: Hudson 5-1, N. Central 1-6

WINNING PITCHER: Shaffer (5 innings, 9 hits, 8 runs, 6 earned, 4 strikeouts, 5 walks)

LOSING PITCHER: West (2.1 innings, 9 hits, 11 runs, 6 earned, 0 strikeouts, 3 walks) OTHER: Turner, Stewart

LEADING HITTERS: (Hudson) Anderson – triple, 3 RBIs; Clark – double, single, 2 RBIs; Horwath – 2 doubles, 2 singles, 4 RBIs, runs; Rogers – double, 3 singles, 3 RBIs; Williams – double, RBI; Arredondo – 2 singles, 3 RBIs, 4 runs; (NC) West – double, single, 3 RBIs; Wright – triple, single

Ayersville 13 Edon 4

AYERSVILLE – Taylor Waldron had three hits in four at bats and knocked in two runs and worked 6 1/3 innings in the circle to pick up the win to open the Great 8 Softball Tournament at Ayersville.

Makayla Anspaugh highlighted the Bombers offense with a two-run double in the fourth.

EDON 000 220 0 – 4 4 2

AYERSVILLE 333 310 x – 13 16 4

Records: Edon 0-7, Ayersville 3-1

WINNING PITCHER: Waldron (6.1 innings, 4 hits, 2 runs, 0 earned, 6 strikeouts, 2 walks) OTHER: Zartman

LOSING PITCHER: Tracey (2 innings, 8 hits, 9 runs, 8 earned, 0 strikeouts, 1 walk) OTHER: Anspaugh

LEADING HITTERS: (Edon) Anspaugh – double, 2 RBIs; (Ayersville) Sierra – double, single, RBI, 2 runs; Waldron – double, 2 singles, 2 RBIs; Pahl – double, single, RBI, 2 runs; Brown – double, single, 2 RBIs; Sigler – 2 singles

Fort Recovery 15 Edon 7

AYERSVILLE – Edon cut the Fort Recovery lead to 10-7 after scoring six runs in the fourth, but the Indians scored five in the bottom of the sixth to put away the win in a consolation game of the Great 8 Softball Tournament.

The Bombers’ big inning featured a two-out grand slam by Madison Ogden that made it a 10-7 ball game.

EDON 001 600 0 - 7 9 8

FT. RECOVERY 316 005 x – 15 15 4

Records: Edon 0-8, FT. Recovery 3-4

WINNING PITCHER: Homan (3.2 innings, 6 hits, 7 runs, 6 earned, 8 strikeouts, 3 walks)

LOSING PITCHER: Wofford (2.1 innings, 7 hits, 10 runs, 3 earned, 2 strikeouts, 1 walk) OTHER: Anspaugh

LEADING HITTERS: (Edon) Ogden –home run, 4 RBIs; Breier – double, 2 runs; Schwartz – 2 singles; (FR) Heitkamp – home run, single, 2 RBIs, 2 runs; Schoen – double, 2 singles, RBI; Will – double, single, 4 RBIs, 3 runs; Griesz – double, 2 runs; Wendel – 2 singles, 2 runs; Tebbe – 2 singles, 3 RBIs, 2 runs

Evergreen 11 Miller City 10 (8 innings) METAMORA – After a

added two singles and drove in three runs.

MILLER CITY 302 000 32 – 10 16 2

EVERGREEN 230 111 03 – 11 12 4

Records: Miller City 2-3, Evergreen 2-3

WINNING PITCHER: Keller (8 innings, 8 hits, 10 runs, 5 earned, 11 strikeouts, 6 walks)

LOSING PITCHER: Reyna (7.1 innings, 11 hits, 11 runs, 9 earned, 3 strikeouts, 10 walks)

LEADING HITTERS: (MC) David – home run, single, 4 RBIs; Michel –double, three singles, 3 RBIs; Erford –3 singles, 2 RBIs; Rieman – 2 singles; Wilhelm – 2 singles; (Evergreen) Chamberlin – 2 home runs, 2 RBIs, 3 runs; Keller – double, single, RBI; Shrader – 2 singles, 3 RBIs, McVey – 2 singles; Bull – 2 singles, RBI

Evergreen 14 Miller City 10

METAMORA – Macy Chamberlin hit a grand slam in the third to give the Vikings a 12-1 lead and they held on a 1410 win in the night of a doubleheader. Kira Keller had a three-hit afternoon for Evergreen and Courtney Robertson added a 2-2 day at the plate and drove in three runs.

MILLER CITY 010 513 0 – 10 18 1

EVERGREEN 534 020 x – 14 9 6

Records: Miller City 2-4, Evergreen 3-3

WINNING PITCHER: Shrader (5.2 innings, 8 hits, 6 runs, 2 earned, 4 strikeouts, 2 walks) OTHER: Brubaker

LOSING PITCHER: Schiffer (2 innings, 7 hits, 12 runs, 11 earned, 4 strikeouts, 7 walks) OTHER: Gilgenbach

LEADING HITTERS: (MC) Wilhelm –double, single, 3 RBIs; David – double; Niese – 2 singles, RBI; K. Ruhe – 2 singles, 2 RBIs, 3 runs; Schiffer – 2 singles; A. Ruhe – 4 singles, 2 RBIs; (Evergreen) Chamberlin – home run, 4 RBIs; Keller – 3 singles, RBI, 3 runs; Robertson –double, single, 3 RBIs, 2 runs; Bull –double, 2 RBIs

Archbold 4 Lima Bath 2 LIMA – Tess Ames went 3-4 and Ryann Burkholder had two hits and three RBIs to lead Archbold to a 4-2 win in the first of two versus Lima Bath. Katie Stoner pitched six innings allowing just one run on seven hits to get the win for the Streaks.

ARCHBOLD 210 010 0 – 4 10 3

LIMA BATH 000 100 1 – 2 10 2

Records: Archbold 5-2, Bath 3-3

WINNING

LEADING HITTERS: (Archbold)

T. Ames - double, 2 singles, RBI; Burkholder – double, single, 3 RBIs; Stoner – 2 singles; Meyer – double; (Bath) Gibson – home run, 2 singles, RBI; Foster – 2 singles;

Track & Field Summaries

J. Blanco (F) 4:44; 4x100 relay –Pettisville (C. Nofziger, J. Wonderly, C. Wilkie, C. Bowers) 47.65; 4x200 relay – Pettisville (L. Graffice, C. Bowers, C. Nofziger, J. Wonderly) 1:38; 4x400 relay – Pettisville (L. Graffice, C. Bowers, C. Nofziger, K. Galvin) 3:50; 4x800 relay – Fayette (E. Sperling, W. Mitchell, E. Beauregard, J. Blanco) 8:58; FAYETTE & PETTISVILLE FIELD EVENT WINNERS: High jump – J. Grant (P) 5’6”; Pole vault – E. Beauregard (F) 11’2”; Long jump – L. Graffice (P) 18’3”; Shot put – J. Grant (P) 42’8”; Discus – C.J. Szabo (F) 122’0”

North Central 83 Montpelier 63 Stryker 3

RUNNING EVENT WINNERS: 100 meters – B. Sutton (NC) 11.81; 200 meters – B. Sutton (NC); 400 meters – T. Reinbolt (NC) 56.99; 800 meters – C. Eckley (NC) 2:21; 1600 meters –C. Eckley (NC) 5:04; 3200 meters – C. Eckley (NC) 11:36; 300 hurdles – D. Koch (M) 49.27; 4x100 relay – N. Central (A. Nickloy, J. Benedict, C. Martin, B. Sutton) 48.67; 4x200 relay – N. Central (A. Nickloy, J. Benedict, C. Martin, Z. Whitley) 1:41; 4x400 relay – N. Central (T. Reinbolt, Z. Whitley, A. Hegler, K. Thompson) 4:01; 4x800 relay – N. Central (C. Eckley, T. Reinbolt, Z. Whitley, A. Hegler) 9:23; FIELD EVENT WINNER: High jump – J. Burt (NC) 5’6”; Pole vault – N. Rummel (M) 10’7”; Long jump – C. Martin (NC) 17’9.5”; Shot put – E. Fackler (M) 46’11”; Discus – E. Fackler (M) 142’2” Bryan 92.50 Archbold 57.50 Swanton 22 RUNNING EVENT WINNERS: 100 meters – D. Hahn (B) 11.48; 200 meters – D. Hahn (B) 23.37; 400 meters

– S. Woodward (B) 52.66; 800 meters

– S. Serratos (S) 2:10; 1600 meters

– X. Fackler (B) 4:46; 3200 meters –M. Neilson (B) 11:05; 110 hurdles

– L. Krugh (A) 17.31; 300 hurdles

– L. Krugh (A) 43.83; 4x100 relay –Swanton (J. Carrizales, S. Carmen, R. Wilson, A. Hornyak-Ramsey) 47.57; 4x200 relay – Archbold (J. Keiser, M. Bickel, S. Phillips, R. Ryan) 1:38; 4x400 relay – Swanton (R. Wilson, L. Bettinger, D. Nijakowski, S. Serratos) 3:39; 4x800 relay – Bryan (X. Fackler, B. Buchanan, M. Neilson, N. Bradbee)

9:13; FIELD EVENT WINNERS: High jump – S. Phillips (A) 5’8”; Pole vault

– P. Nafziger (A) 12’6”; Long jump – D. Bush (B) 10’7”; Shot put – C. Shaffer (B) 47’ 1.5”; Discus – C. Shaffer (B) 121’7”

Wauseon 76 Evergreen 69 Patrick Henry 30 WAUSEON & EVERGREEN RUNNING EVENT WINNERS: 100 meters –W. Smith (W) 11.00; 200 meters – W. Smith (W) 22.81; 400 meters – E. Felzer (W) 54.06; 800 meters – I. Sheets (E) 2:18; 1600 meters – I. Sheets (E) 5:07; 3200 meters – J. Bourn (W) 11:27; 110 hurdles – W. Ruetz (E) 15.84; 300 hurdles – S. Richer (W) 44.09; 4x200 relay – Wauseon A (1:37); 4x400 relay – Evergreen (AJ Fox, C. Clancy, A. Smith, D. Gillen) 3:50; 4x800 relay – Wauseon (J. Carroll, J. Bourn, W. Medina, C. Wasnich) 9:12;

ers (P) 11.78; 200 meters – 1. S. Haley (P) 22.78; 400 meters – 1. S. Haley (P) 52.77, 2. L. Graffice (P) 53.64; 4x100 relay – 2. Montpelier (N. Rummel, G. Cooley, B. Brink, B. Friend) 46.89, 3. N. Central (A. Nickoly, J. Benedict, E. Beard, B. Sutton) 47.18; 4x200 relay – 1. Pettisville (L. Graffice, C. Bowers, C. Nofziger, S. Haley) 1:36; 4x400 relay – 1. Pettisville (L. Graffice, K. Galvin, C. Bowers, S. Haley) 3:42; AREA TOP 3 FINISHERS - FIELD EVENTS: High jump – 2. J. Burt (NC) 5’10”; Pole vault – 3. N. Rummel (M) 10’0”; Long jump –3. L. Graffice (P) 19’2.5”; Shot put – 1. L. Pontious (M) 46’8.5”, 3. E. Fackler (M) 43’5.5”; Discus – 1. E. Fackler (M) 143’0”

Liberty Center Invitational

TEAM SCORES: 1. Sylvania Northview 112.50; 2. Lake 110; 3. Delta 97; 4. Evergreen 85.50; 5. Liberty Center 85; 6. Bryan 74; 7. Maumee 72; 8. Northwood 40; 9. Woodmore 23

AREA TOP 3 FINISHERS - RUN-

NING EVENTS: 100 meters – 2. D. Hahn (B) 11.29, 3. J. Ruple (D) 11.30; 200 meters – 1. D. Hahn (B) 22.87, 3. B. Huffman (E) 23.21; 800 meters – 3. E. Armstrong (D) 2:10; 1600 meters –

1. X. Fackler (B) 4:50; 110 hurdles –

1. R. Wyse (D) 15.47, 3. W. Ruetz (E) 16.43; 300 hurdles – 1. E. Mora (D) 40.95; 4x100 relay – 3. Delta (R. Wyse, A. Scott, C. Etter, J. Ruple) 47.12; 4x200 relay – 3. Evergreen (W. Todd, L. Woodring, B. Eisel, B. Hoffman) 1:37; 4x400 relay – 2. Delta (E. Mora, E. Armstrong, A. York, J. Ruple) 3:37; 4x800 relay – 3. Delta (D. Sintobin, L. Reinhard, E. Armstrong, A. York)

9:08; AREA TOP 3 FINISHERS - FIELD

EVENTS: Pole vault – 1. J. Ruple (D) 12’6”; Long jump – 2. L. Woodring (E) 20’8.75”; Shot put – 2. C. Shaffer (B) 47’10.5”, 3. R. Pennington (E) 47’10”

Napoleon Wildcat Invitational

TEAM SCORES: 1. Celina 134.5; 2. Eastwood 130.5; 3. Defiance 101; 4. Wauseon 83.5; 5. Ottawa Hills 62; 6. Archbold 54; 7. Napoleon 50.5; 8. Clay 35.5; 9. Emmanuel Christian 7.5

AREA TOP 3 FINISHERS - RUNNING

EVENTS: 100 meters – 2. W. Smith (W) 11.14; 200 meters – 3. J. Keiser (A) 24.02; 400 meters – 2. E. Felzer (W) 54.19; 4x100 relay – 3. Wauseon (L. Tester, W. Smith, I. Westmeyer, T. Tester) 46.48; 4x200 relay – 2. Wauseon (E. Felzer, K. Powers, A.J. King, W. Smith) 1:38.16, 3. Archbold (J. Keiser, M. Bickel, S. Phillips, R. Ryder) 1:38.78; 4x400 relay – 3. Wauseon (S. Richer, E. Felzer, J. Aeschliman, C. Mennetti) 3:42; AREA TOP 3 FINISHERS - FIELD

EVENTS: Pole vault – 1. P. Nofziger (A) 13’6”; Discus – 3. A. Fruchey (W) 122’9”

GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

April 9, 2024

Pettisville 80 Fayette 45 Holgate 30

FAYETTE & PETTISVILLE RUN-

NING EVENT WINNERS: 100 meters – M. Harris (P) 12.83; 200 meters – M. Harris (P) 30.28; 400 meters – D. Storrs (F) 1:11; 800 meters – G. Remington (P) 2:27; 1600 meters – K. Sears (P) 5:39; 3200 meters – K. Sears (P) 12:38; 100 hurdles – P. Powell (P) 19.28; 300 hurdles – A. Grimm (P) 52.03; 4x200 relay – Pettisville (A. Grimm, M. Harris, G. Remington, B. Strauss) 1:54; 4x400 relay – Pettisville (A. Grimm, M. Remington, B. Strauss, G. Remington) 4:39; 4x800 relay –Pettisville (M. Remington, K. Sears, A.

ters – A. Zimmerman (B) 1:06.72; 800 meters – Smith (B) 2:31; 1600 meters – (B) K. Thormeier (B) 5:41; 3200 meters – M. Nijakowski (S) 15:01; 100

hurdles – A. Pedraza (A) 17.56; 300

hurdles – A. Pedraza (A) 51.6; 4x100

relay – Archbold (M. Bickel, I. Selgo, L. Frey, A. Pedraza) 54.64; 4x200 relay –Archbold (H. Valle, I. Selgo, L. Frey, A. Pedraza) 1:57; 4x400 relay – Bryan (A. Zimmerman, N. Stickney, K. Knight, M. Smith) 4:39; 4x800 relay – Bryan (A. Alyanakian, N. Stickney, K. Thiel K. Thormeier) 10:40; FIELD EVENT WINNERS: High jump – I. Selgo (A) 4’10”; Pole vault – Blue (B) 7’0”; Long jump –A. Zimmerman (B) 14’8”; Shot put – L. Nichols (A) 29’10.75”; Discus – L. Weber (A) 75’10”

Patrick Henry 70 Evergreen 58 Wauseon 46

WAUSEON & EVERGREEN RUNNING EVENT WINNERS: 100 meters

– B. Spradlin (E) 12.59; 200 meters

– B. Spradlin (E) 27.0; 400 meters –A. Strader (W) 1:05; 800 meters – E. Rhodes (W) 2:31; 1600 meters – E. Rhoades (W) 5:38; 300 hurdles – K. Huntzinger (E) 52.1; 4x200 relay – Evergreen (A. Mitchey, R. VanWormer, B. Sintobin, B. Spradlin) 1:55; WAUSEON & EVERGREEN FIELD EVENT WINNERS: High jump - A. Mitchey (E) 4’8;, J. Tester (W) 4’8”; Pole vault – T. Rupp (W) 9’6”; Long jump – T. Rupp (W) 15’4”; Shot put – H. Wilson (E) 30’0”

Hicksville 89 Edon 67

Edgerton 66 Hilltop 18

RUNNING EVENT WINNERS: 100 meters – J. Craven (Edon) 13.64; 200 meters – J. Craven (Edon) 29.25; 400 meters – A. Matouskova (Edg) 1:05; 800 meters – B. Scher (Hck) 2:54; 1600 meters – B. Scher (Hck) 6:32; 3200 meters – B. Scher (Hck) 14:20; 110 hurdles – L. Doctor (Hck) 17.76; 300 hurdles – A. Baird (Hck) 54.9; 4x100 relay – Edon (56.04); 4x200 relay – Edon (2:01); 4x400 relay - 4x800 relay –Edgerton (12:19); FIELD EVENT WINNERS: High jump – Ge. Ripke (Edon) 4’6”; Pole vault – K. Myers (Edg) 7’6”; Long jump – A. Baird (Hck) 14’2”; Shot put – H. Neidhardt (Hck) 35’1”; Discus – H. Neidhardt (Hck) 118’7”

April 13, 2024

Patrick Henry Invitational

TEAM SCORES (13 teams): 1. Kalida 122; 2. Patrick Henry 100; 3. St. Marys 76; 4. Pettisville 70; 5. Montpelier 67

AREA TOP 3 FINISHERS - RUN-

NING EVENTS: 100 meters – 3. B.

Friend (M) 13.0; 200 meters – 3. B. Friend (M) 26.81; 800 meters – 1. G. Remington (P) 2:28; 1600 meters – 2.

K. Sears (P) 5:43; 3200 meters – 2.

K. Sears (P) 12:31; 4x100 relay – 1. Montpelier (K. Kitchen, B. Friend, J. Altaffer, A. Hillard) 53.01; 4x200 relay – 1. Montpelier (K. Kitchen, B. Friend, J. Altaffer, A. Hillard) 1:50, 3. Pettisville (A. Grimm, G. Remington; M. Harris, B. Strauss) 1:54; 4x400

relay – 3. Pettisville (A. Grimm, M. Remington, B. Strauss, G. Remington) 4:22; 4x800 relay – 2. Pettisville (M. Remington, K. Sears, S. Loar, G. Remington) 10:49; AREA TOP 3 FINISHERS - FIELD EVENTS: Pole vault – 1. A. Grimm (P) 8’8”; Long jump – 3. J. Altaffer (M) 15’11”; Shot put – 3. T.

Bard (M) 32’6.5”

Liberty Center Invitational TEAM SCORES: 1. Liberty Center 135; 2. Woodmore 119.50; 3. Sylvania Northview; 4. Lake 93.50; 5. Delta 81; 6. Evergreen 62; 7. Bryan 46; 8. Northwood 30; 9. Maumee 24

AREA TOP 3 FINISHERS - RUNNING EVENTS: 100 meters – B. Spradlin (E) 12.94; 1600 meters – 2. J. Welch (D) 5:35; 3200 meters – 1. K. Thormeier (B) 12:08, 2. N. Stickney (B) 12:32; 100 hurdles – 2. K. Huntzinger (E) 17.07, 3. A. Wyse (D) 17.30; 4x800 relay – 3.

Bryan (M. Smith, A. Alyanakian, K. Thiel, N. Stickney) 10:57; AREA TOP 3 FINISHERS FIELD EVENTS: High jump – 2. A. Wyse (D) 4’10”; Shot put – 3. O.

April 13, 2024

Patrick Henry Invitational

TEAM SCORES (14 teams): 1. Lakota 103; 2. Pettisville 81; 3. Elmwood 80; 4. Patrick Henry 60; 5. Montpelier 57; 9; 9. N. Central 38 AREA TOP 3 FINISHERS - RUNNING EVENTS: 100 meters – C. Bow-

– K. Kitchen (M) 57.05; 4x100 relay –Montpelier (K. Kitchen, B. Friend, J. Altaffer, A. Hillard) 52.58; 4x200 relay

– Montpelier (A. Hoover, B. Friend, J. Altaffer, A. Hillard) 1:50; 4x400 relay

– Stryker (R. Creighton, A. Oberlin, G. Froelich, A. Clemens) 4:43; 4x800 re-

lay - Montpelier (A. Michael, K. Serrano, M. McGee, B. Mearing) 12:30;

FIELD EVENT WINNERS: High jump –B. Friend (M) 4’6”; Pole vault – E. LaBo (S) 6’0”; Long jump – J. Altaffer (M) 14’6.75”; Shot put – Bard (M) 30’10”; Discus – Bard (M) 83’2”

Bryan 83 Archbold 64 Swanton 24

RUNNING EVENT WINNER: 100 meters – C. Spisak (B) 13.41; 200 meters – C. Spisak (B) 27.93; 400 me-

Spring Sports Action (In

Photos By Jacob Kessler & Renea Kessler, Staff

Bryan Kiwanis Hears From Students Of The Month & Spring Musical Cast

CAST …

Bryan's Sanctuary Homeless Shelter Welcomes

Clayt Beltran As Gala Guest Speaker

By: Anna Wozniak

THE

VILLAGE REPORTER anna@thevillagereporter.com

The annual gala for The Sanctuary Homeless Shelter was held on April 9th at the Wesley UMC Fellowship Hall off Center Street in Bryan.

Pheba Sam welcomed everyone, sharing that the last year has been exceptionally well as the community has come together to support those who are unhoused.

She thanked everyone for their hard work and support with re-

gards to helping The Sanctuary help the unhoused and expand their means to be able to do so.

Part of this expansion is their basement project, which was then shown on the screen to attendees. Mike Stuckey and his team were thanked for their work on the project, and volunteer Logan Stuckey spoke on behalf of the volunteers.

Sibin Sam then introduced Clayt Beltran, who shared his own battle against substance abuse and homelessness.

After battling addiction on the

streets of Toledo, Clayt hopped a train, and found himself in Bryan, Ohio, where he said he was pulled to be by “Jesus.”

He shared how knowing that God loved him when he felt unlovable gave him the strength necessary to pull himself out of addiction, and how places like The Sanctuary helped him to facilitate the new path he chose for himself.

He shared how his real prison was the self-doubt he felt around being himself, and now that he has embraced Christianity, he

The Four County ADAMhs Board approved the first round of service contracts for the fiscal year starting July 1 at its April 11 board meeting. Those contracts total $5,407,846.

Contracts approved at the meeting include: Maumee Valley Guidance Center, $1,677,550; OhioGuidestone, $1,494,796; New Home Development Company, $1,020,500; and Health Partners of Western Ohio, $540,000.

Also: The Center for Child and Family Advocacy, $240,000; Williams County Health Department (acting as the fiscal agent for all four county health departments), $115,000; Arrowhead Behavioral Health, $100,000;

Tonie Long explained that the capital construction portion of the New Home Development contract may be reduced in the future by roughly $250,000.

New Home Development has said that it anticipates receiving additional match funding from the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services; however, the official notice has not yet been re-

ceived.

can look at himself with pride.

He, most importantly, urged everyone to let go of the fear they carry around that they may not be good enough, or don’t fit in, and their hurt and shame, and embrace the lives they have to live. Pheba then thanked the volunteers and community for their help in bringing “amazing changes” to people’s lives. Thanked were the prayer partners, supporting churches, volunteer staff, the basement project helpers, year-round event volun-

Most of the funding (some $1.2 million) for that project in Defiance will be provided by another state agency -- the Ohio Housing Finance Agency.

If the additional state funding is received, Long

explained that it would replace match dollars that the ADAMhs Board had already pledged for the project. The 10-unit supportive living housing project will be located next to a similar building on Upton Avenue near the Kroger grocery store. More service contracts for the upcoming fiscal year will be presented for board approval in May and June.

The board also approved two smaller contracts for the new fiscal year. Toledo attorney Carla B. Davis will again serve as the board’s legal representative at probate hearings at the rate of $135 per hearing and per hour for any hearing that exceeds one hour.

Amanda Waldfogel will serve as the board’s consumer advocate and support group leader for up to $3,000. The board also approved a corrected five-year auditing contract with CliftonLarsonAllen LLP in the amount of $610,675 for fiscal years 2022 through 2026.

teers, the stylist who provides services to Sanctuary residents, social service agencies like JFS and Sarah’s Friends, Bryan city officials including the police, Mayor Carrie Schlade, and John Betts, the BAF, BDF, and PIP, the Bryan Chamber of Commerce, Bryan Schools, and the board members. Martin and Liz Shannon were thanked alongside Susie’s Catering for the food, Pastor Steve was thanked for his help with music, and a heartfelt thank you was given to everyone who has helped to support The Sanctuary this year.

SPRING MUSICAL

The Kiwanis Club of Bryan welcomed students from Bryan High School from the cast in this year’s spring production of Jekyll and Hyde at our meeting of 4/10/24. The students performed several scenes from the show for the group and judging from what they presented it looks like it will be a must-see show. Students pictured are, left to right, Elleah Davis, Emma Schlade, Noah Mills, Oliver Proxmire and Ryan Speiss. The students were accompanied by Director Ben Lupo and Musical Director Laura Knight.

PHOTOS PROVIDED / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH … At the weekly Kiwanis Meeting of April 10, 2024, the club welcomed the Bryan High School Students of the Month for April 2024. The students shared their most memorable high school experience, as well as their future plans for college in the fall. Pictured left to right is Tabithah Taylor, Ella Rau and Ella Voight. The students are selected by the faculty of Bryan High School based on their academic achievements as well as participation in extra-curricular activities.

PHOTOS BY ANNA WOZNIAK / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

SUSIE’S CATERING … Martin and Liz Shannon were thanked alongside Susie’s Catering for helping to provide the meal.

STORY OF SUCCESS … Colby, Clayt, Sandy, Brayden and Parker all came to support Clayt Beltran as he shared his success story with those at The Sanctuary Homeless Shelter’s 31st annual gala.

Page

“I always feel like somebody’s watching me….” the tune of that old song Michael Jackson song echoes through my head as I wrote this devotional.

It doesn’t seem appropriate to include the lyrics to a pop song of the 80’s with a scriptural reflection, so maybe I should explain.

Years ago, I was invited to speak at an FCA retreat in the Cleveland area. It was a great opportunity to share Jesus, so I couldn’t turn it down.

At the end of the event, the teacher who invited me, presented me with a painting. He wasn’t just a teacher; he was an artist!

It was an incredible work of art depicting Jesus and His disciples in the storm from Mark 4:35. It wasn’t just a masterpiece by the hands of a new friend, it was a reminder that Jesus still calms storms. But then I noticed another boat in the picture. My initial thought, “Oops, he got the story wrong and painted an extra boat.” I’ve read this story hundreds of times, it was just Jesus and His disciples in their boat, right?

Wrong. Verse 36 says, “So they took Jesus in the boat and started out, leaving the crowds behind (although other boats fol-

LET’S STOP SPLITTING!

- Mike Kelly, Retired Pastor, Bryan, OhioTHE BACK DOOR

According to Gallup’s data, church attendance among Christians went from an average of 42 percent of U.S. adults attending religious services every week or nearly every week 20 years ago to just 30 percent in 2023. While Protestant churches have declined in attendance about 4% in 20 years, Catholic and Orthodox churches have declined between 9-12% in the same period.

At first blush it appears that people are simply no longer interested in attending a regular church service, so they don’t go to church.

The obvious conclusion is that the unchurched don’t see the value of going to church. If church were more inviting or offering something the unchurched wanted, maybe the decline would end, and we’d see growth.

Therefore, the solution is to make going to church more attractive. And that is true! But it is not the entire solution.

Jim Davis and Michael Graham write in their new book, “The Great Dechurching:

Jesus’ consistent invitation

Who’s Leaving, Why Are They Going, and What Will It Take to Bring Them Back?” that there is another issue to be dealt with besides the “front” door…the one that attracts new people. “More people have left the church in the last 25 years than all the new people who became Christians from the First Great Awakening, Second Great Awakening, and Billy Graham crusades combined,” Did you get that?

Church attendance is going down but, unlike we typically think, it’s not just the front door that is the issue as much as it is the back door…the door where the churched people leave the church to stay home.

As any insightful businessperson will tell you, getting new customers is critical but keeping the customers you already have is essential to survival.

It appears that churches are getting new people, but they are losing their own people at an even faster rate.

Twenty years ago the average church was 128 people on a Sunday morning. In 2020,

PASTOR'S PONDERINGS

- Pastor Steve Wilmot, Edgerton, OhioIS IT WORTH IT?

people is “follow me.” The Christian

Sidewalk Prophets wrote and sang a song imagining what it would be like if Jesus walked up to someone today and offered the same invitation. If I saw You on the street And You said come and follow me But I had to give up everything All I once held dear and all my dreams Would I love You enough to let go? Or would my love run dry When You asked me for my life?

In our modern-day watered-down gospel, it seems heresy to suggest that Jesus demands those who follow him to give up everything. That following him is worth sacrificing everything for.

Yet that’s exactly what we hear Jesus ask potential followers to do. All. The. Time. He asked Peter, Andrew, James, and John to follow him, and they left their family and their fishing business. He invited Matthew to follow him, and he left his lucrative tax collecting business. A ruler approached Jesus to ask what he had to do to have eternal life. Jesus listed a few of the Ten Commandments and the guy

said he’d kept each one since he was a boy. Then Jesus said to him, “You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.’ When he heard this, he became very sad, because he was very wealthy (Luke 18.22-23).

Is Jesus insisting we must sell everything we have to be his follower? No. Wealth is not sin. Many Christ-followers in the Bible and since were wealthy people.

What he’s saying is that to follow him means we must sacrifice anything that stands in the way of being a completely committed follower. For this guy it was his wealth. For others it was family, friends, career.

What is it for you? This raises another important question: Is it worth it? Is it worth giving up everything you hold dear? All your dreams?

In their song, the Sidewalk Prophets answer for themselves: “If You’re all You claim to be, then I’m not losing anything.”

Do you really believe that? Do you really believe you can’t come out on the short end if you choose to follow Jesus? That he is worth

lowed).” Other boats followed! His painting was spot on. I think in my haste to rush to the meat of the story, I missed a few details.

Take time to slowly read through this story and the accounts from others in Matthew 8:23, and Luke 8:22. But one truth I want you to know is that we are not alone.

During this fierce storm, in the chaos and fear of dying, they woke Jesus up and asked, Teacher, don’t you care that we are going to drown?

They felt alone and that Jesus was not helping. We all feel that way at times. The storms of life hit, and the chaos of our schedules, relationships, and unfair situations knock us around. We begin to wonder if God sees us and our struggles.

We may wonder, like the disciples, does God really care. From the Old Testament to the New Testament, people have often felt this way, so don’t knock the disciples for looking into the eyes of Jesus and asking this question. Here is truth. He is always watching, and He cares. The disciples were reminded to trust Jesus in the storm, even when they felt alone. And…the nearby boats witnessed this

just before COVID the average church was 88 and today, just two years after COVID, the average attendance is 60.

If we want to help the church to grow, we need to find out why people are leaving. Why is the average attendance nearly half of just 20 years ago?

Davis and Graham identified two groups of formerly churched people: “The Casually Unchurched” and “The Church Casualties”. The “Casually Unchurched” are those who went because it was not a big deal to go, and they had historically gone but then they moved away and didn’t feel enough loss at not having a church to look for another church.

They were more cultural Christians who didn’t really get the vision of what a Believer is called to do. They lacked any passion for loving God or for loving people. They aren’t closed to attending another church but don’t have the drive to really go “church shopping”. A good friend or even a new friend inviting them to church might be all it would take to get them re-involved.

The “Church Casualties” group is another matter. They left because their church could not meet their needs. Maybe they needed a safe place and the church they attended turned out not to be safe.

Some left because of cultural issues like Gender Identity, different political views, even clergy misbehavior and church scandals. Others because of negative experiences and lack of friends.

They simply did not “feel the love” of brothers and sisters or even of God. And some left because they quit believing. If you attend church, ask yourself what part are you playing in keeping the churched in

sacrificing everything for? That he really is the hidden treasure in the field you’d sell everything to have?

That’s what he demands of those who would follow him. Not an hour or two a week to go to church. Not a few bucks in the offering plate. It’s more than that. He wants to see a willingness to do anything it takes.

So, is it worth it? After the rich guy walked away from Jesus because he wasn’t willing to sell his possessions, the Twelve wondered whether making the sacrifices they had made were going to be worth it.

Peter voices their doubt, “We have left all we had to follow you!” Hidden within his comment is another question: “Did we make a mistake? Are we going to regret that we left everything to follow you? Jesus, is it gonna be worth it?”

“‘Truly I tell you,’ Jesus said to them, ‘no one who has left home or wife or brothers or sisters or parents or children for the sake of the kingdom of God will fail to receive many times as much in this age, and in the age to come eternal life.” (Luke 18.28-30).

too! The other boats, who were tagging along felt the storm too.

They watched, not having Jesus in their boat! They watched, wondering how Peter and the others would respond to a storm. Others are watching you too.

Now you know why that tune is going through my head. Somebody is watching. My Lord God is watching me. He cares for me, and He knows what I’m going through.

I’m not alone. Others are watching me, wondering how I will handle the storms of my life. Will I trust the God I worship; will I live a God-honoring life?

As you move through this day, remember that God sees you and what you are going through. As you move through this day, remember that others are watching you, wondering if your faith is real, even in the dark and chaotic times of life. In these times, trust God. You may feel alone, you are not. Trust God.

Rex Stump is the Area Director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and serves as a Pastor at True North Church in Wauseon, Ohio.

church? Are you looking for the loner who is too shy to reach out but needs a friend?

Are you looking for the one who is covering up their hurt with a mask every week but is dying inside? Are you looking for the one who is in a crisis of faith?

Are you asking God to lead you to the one who needs encouragement and a hug? And as for the Casually Unchurched who are new in the area or who you know to have just quit going to their church, are you inviting them?

According to a Lifeway Research poll, 82% of people would attend church if a friend invited them. 82%!! That means that four out of every five people invited to church will likely say yes.

Any salesman would give his proverbial eye teeth for a positive response percentage like that. The risk is minimal, but the rewards are eternal.

Church leaders need to continue to find new and creative ways to reach the Unchurched but those of us in the pews need to take responsibility for those who are there but just hanging in.

And if you are one of those, take one more risk and ask someone to help you meet the need that is pushing you out the back door.

No church is perfect, and every church may not be for you, but make the effort to find the one God has that will draw you in, heal your issues and equip you to be used in His Kingdom.

Mike Kelly is the founding pastor of Bryan’s Grace Community Church (retired) and Board Chairman of Bryan’s Sanctuary Homeless Shelter and Williams County’s Compassion (free) Medical Clinic.

Jesus tells the Twelve and us, “Yeah, it’s worth it. It’s worth it now, and it’ll be worth it after you die. It’s more than worth it.”

Whether we believe him is shown by what we’re willing to sacrifice to follow him. By what we are willing to do; by what we are willing to give up to gain true treasure — Jesus himself.

in us” (Romans 8.18).

If you saw Jesus on the street and he said, “Come and follow me,” but you had to give up everything - all you hold dear and all your dreams, would you love him enough to let go and follow him? Would you?

to

group

Two Fundraisers Left For Presbyterian Mexico Bible School Mission

Edgerton K Of C Makes Donation To Never Let Go Ministries

Bryan’s First Presbyterian Church is working hard for vacation bible school to be offered to people of all ages in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. The mission team and 12 missionaries have been hard at work fundraising, as more than 100 people are relying on them for activities for devotions, bible study, games, crafts, and snacks that will be seen at the bible school, which will be hosted in partnership with Idlesia Principe de Paz in Colonia Ejido.

There are two fundraising events still for this mission, which is planned to span from July 20th through July 28th of 2024.

A pancake and sausage freewill donation breakfast will be held on April 20th at 506 Oxford Drive in Bryan from 8 to 10 a.m., and a Cinco de Mayo fiesta is planned for May 4th from 5 to 7 p.m. at the same location. There will be games, Mexican food, and

New Catholic Charities Crisis Navigator Coming To Saint Patrick Catholic Church In Bryan

(PRESS RELEASE) TOLEDO, OH - Catholic Charities Diocese of Toledo’s newest office in Bryan, Ohio began providing crisis navigation services to Williams County residents on April 5. “Catholic Charities is excited and grateful to begin providing services in Bryan and Williams County,” says Rodney Schuster, Executive Director, Catholic Charities Diocese of Toledo. “This is the result of a wonderful partnership with St. Patrick’s Parish.” The Bryan parish is providing office space and funds from the Diocesan “Living Christ” Campaign will provide funding for the new position.

Darby Hildebrandt has been hired as the full-time Catholic Charities staff member who will provide case management services, budget tools, life skills support, resources and referrals to parish families and residents of Williams County.

“We are very excited about this opportunity to better serve our families and residents of Williams County,” says Fr. Andrew Wellmann. “Catholic Charities Crisis Navigator will support our parish’s ongo-

ing efforts to care for those in need.” Catholic Charities Williams County office number is 419636-1044, ext. 135. Additional Catholic Charities Diocese of Toledo offices are in Norwalk, Mansfield, Sandusky and Toledo, Ohio.

Catholic Charities mission is to make real the love of Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church

by providing transformative and life-changing services and support to all who come to us with physical, emotional, or spiritual needs, regardless of background or faith.

Catholic Charities assists the neglected and forgotten, respects and promotes life from conception to natural death, and nurtures and supports the institution of family.

Montpelier - Event Dates

Announced As School ...

Spangler Candy World and the Williams County Historical Museum will be visited by the 5th graders on May 9th, and the annual Teacher Appreciation Luncheon is planned for May 13th, provided by The House of Prayer. May 14th will be Water Day for the 4th graders, where they plan to engage Sandy Gordon from the Montpelier Parks Board. Mrs. Thorp began sharing that E3 day was last Wednesday, and thanks was given for the early dismissal so that students could see the eclipse.

On May 2nd, the juniors tour the courthouse, an annual tradition, and May 7th everyone go to Bryan High School to hear from Chris Herren.

On May 8th, the 8th graders travel to Toledo for the JS Inspire Fair, the 4th year

EDON NORTHWEST BOARD OF EDUCATION

Proposal For Addition To Old

meeting; financial reports for March 2024; April 2024

cation met on Monday, April 8, 2024. Members Cody Best, Ashley Reed, Patty Eicher, and Jamie Schaffter were later joined by member Dave Wehrle. After hearing concerns on the VoAg / FFA program, the board moved to approve the consent agenda, which consisted of the following items: approval of the minutes from their Monday, March 11, 2024

Amended Certification Request donations: Parents Club, Howard, various staff members, Best Insurance, and the Athletic Boosters. The March 2024 NWOESC teacher and paraprofessional substitute list. The boys basketball trip for June 11th through 14th, and the Ohio FFA overnight trip May 2nd through 3rd.

Treasurer Mrs. Deb Nester shared the financial report for March, which showed that revenues are up from last year by

$433,614, and expenses are up by $398,406 from this time last year.

Mrs. Lapham then updated everyone on the most recent happenings of the middle and high schools, sharing that 10 staff members are participating in a book study, the seniors enjoyed the senior retreat, 12 students are to participate in senior interviews, the FFA banquet is planned for April 27th, April 29th will see a career fair, May 2nd and 3rd will see the FFA State Convention, May 4th will see prom, May 14th will see the middle school

attending, and invitations have been sent out for summer school.

Other dates announced included: Testing will begin on April 22nd, set to end on the 26th, and prom is set for April 27th; Senior Scholarship Banquet is set for April 29th, and the next blood drive is on May 3rd; May 15th will see baccalaureate, and May 17th will be signing day; May 19th and 20th will see the senior trip, and May 22nd will see graduation rehearsal, with the last day of school for students set as May 23rd.

Mrs. Rice shared that at the end of March, 75% of the fiscal year will be completed, and 71.46% of taxes have been collected. 75% of the estimated expenditures have been spent, and the investment report was approved.

Also approved were the minutes of the March 12, 2024 meeting, as were the financial reports as presented, which included accepting donations from the following: Montpelier Chamber of Commerce, Black Swamp Arts Council, Superior Farm Supply, and the Athletic Boosters.

The superintendent’s recommendations were approved as presented, which included employment and service contracts, as well as all items listed under “other business,” which included the Teacher Appreciation Week proclamation, the 2024-2025 handbooks and various regulations, and the Archery Club trip to Louisville, Kentucky, on May 9th.

The board then entered into executive session to discuss a district employee at 6:40 p.m., set to meet next May 14th in the choir room at 5:30 p.m.

Fine Arts Night, May 17th will see the high school Fine Arts Night, May 20th will see the seniors last day of school and academic awards, May 21st will see Four County Recognition Day, and May 26th will see graduation.

Mrs. Ripke congratulated

Molly Disbro and Tyler Warner on receiving awards at the MathCounts event and shared that state testing for the 3rd through 8th grades has started, with the results to come back in May.

Superintendent Stevens shared a letter sent home with

students advising parents on the solar eclipse, and shared that a request for proposal for an addition to the old bus barn has been advertised, and that all options are being considered with regards to the disposal of two district buses. The 2025-2026 school calendar was approved, all annual contracts were approved as presented, and the OHI Charter Workers’ Comp Group Rating Program for fiscal year 2025 was approved before the board voted to adjourn the meeting at 6:21 p.m., set to meet next Monday, May 13th at 5:30 p.m.

LEGAL - On April 8, 2024, the Council of the Village of Pioneer, Ohio passed the following

10-2024: AN

AMENDING

APPROPRIATIONS FOR

AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. This Ordinance modifies appropriations within the various funds of the Village during the fiscal year 2024 and declares an emergency. All provisions of this Ordinance go into full force and effect immediately.

Ordinance No. 11-2024: AN ORDINANCE DETERMINING TO PROCEED WITH THE IMPROVEMENT OF EAST DEARBORN STREET BY RECONSTRUCTING EAST DEARBORN STREET FROM THE EASTERNMOST POINT OF THE RADIUS AT THE INTERSECTION OF STATE STREET EAST TO APPROXIMATE 100 FEET EAST OF CEDAR STREET, A DISTANCE OF APPROXIMATELY 400 LINEAR FEET, TO INCLUDE NEW CURBS, NEW STORM DRAINAGE, NEW SIDEWALKS AND WATERLINE REPLACEMENT, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The purpose of this Ordinance is to proceed with improvements to East Dearborn Street within the Village of Pioneer, Ohio in accordance with Resolution No. 103-2024; stating that no claims for damages have been filed; adopting the estimated assessments filed with the Village Clerk; Authorizing the Village Administrator to execute any necessary contracts for construction; and, declares an emergency. All provisions of this Ordinance shall go into full force and effect immediately.

Ordinance No. 12-2024: AN ORDINANCE DETERMINING TO PROCEED WITH THE IMPROVEMENT OF CEDAR STREET BY RECONSTRUCTING CEDAR STREET FROM THE NORTHERLY SIDE OF BAUBICE STREET TO THE SOUTH SIDE OF E. MICHIGAN STREET, A DISTANCE OF APPROXIMATELY 1,450 LINEAR FEET, TO INCLUDE INSTALLATION OF NEW CURBS, NEW STORM DRAINAGE, NEW SIDEWALKS AND WATERLINE REPLACEMENT, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The purpose of this Ordinance is to proceed with improvements to Cedar Street within the Village of Pioneer, Ohio in accordance with Resolution No. 102-2024; stating that no claims for damages have been filed; adopting the estimated assessments filed with the Village Clerk; Authorizing the Village Administrator to execute any necessary contracts for construction; and, declares an emergency. All provisions of this Ordinance shall go into full force and effect immediately.

Ordinance No. 13-2024: AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE SALE OF CERTAIN PERSONAL PROPERTY OF THE VILLAGE OF PIONEER, OHIO AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. This Ordinance authorizes the sale of various items of personal property no longer needed for municipal purposes and declares an emergency. This Ordinance shall be effective immediately.

Ordinance No. 14-2024: AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE VILLAGE ADMINISTRATOR TO ENTER INTO AGREEMENTS TO PROVIDE EASEMENTS TO AMP TRANSMISSION, LLC, TO EXECUTE THE EASEMENTS, SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT, POLE ATTACHMENT AGREEMENT AND JOINT USE AGREEMENT; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. This Ordinance authorizes and directs the Village Administrator to enter into and execute an Easement and Right of Way, Settlement Agreement and Release, Pole Attachment Agreement, and Agreement for the Joint Use of Poles, with AMPT Transmission, LLC and execute any documents necessary to effectuate the same and declares an emergency. All provisions of this Ordinance go into full force and effect immediately.

Resolution No. 106-2024: A RESOLUTION ADOPTING UPDATED FEES FOR RENTAL

Case No. 24DV000015

Judge: Scott Haselman LEGAL NOTICE

Valerie Hatzer, Plaintiff, Vs. Andrew Hatzer,Defendant. Defendant. Andrew Hatzer, whose last known address is 134 Maryland Ave, Toledo, Ohio 43605, and whose current place of residence is unknown and cannot with reasonable diligence be ascertained will take notice that on the 28th day of February 2024; the Plaintiff, Valerie Hatzer, filed a Complaint for Divorce against him in the Court of Common Pleas of Fulton County, Ohio, Domestic Relations County, Division, being Case No. 24DV000015 on the docket of said Court, the object and prayer of said Complaint being a Divorce from the Defendant, reasonable parenting time with the parties' minor children, division of property, reasonable attorney fees and court costs, and such other relief as may be

A proposed remedial action plan (RAP) dated January 12, 2024, was submitted by the owner and'/ or operator of the UST system(s) for the review and approval of the State Fire Marshal (SFM). Once the SFM has reviewed and approved the proposed RAP, the owner and/or operator of the UST system(s) will be required to implement the proposed RAP.

A copy of the proposed RAP, as well as other documentation relating to this release and the UST system(s) involved, is maintained by the Bureau of Underground Storage Tank Regulations (BUSTR) and are available for inspection and copying by the public. Please make all requests for copies of the proposed RAP or for inspection of the RAP and other related documentation in writing to BUSTR, P.O. Box 687, Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068.

Information that may help you understand the requirements of BUSTR's rules may be found on BUSTR'S Resource Page at http://www.com.ohio. gov/fire/BUSTRResources.aspx.

The SFM will accept written comments on this RAP for a period of 21 days from the date of publication of this notice. You may submit any comments regarding this site and the RAP, in writing, at the above address. For further information, please contact Taylor Dawes at (614) 752- 7941. Please reference release #86000118-N00002 when making all inquiries or comments.

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Whitacre Logistics is looking to bring on owner/operators with later model trucks, fleet owners and highly qualified company drivers throughout our Midwest Region. If you're an experienced driver willing to run in a regional market, our customer base provides a work-life balance and dispatch flexibility second-tonone. In addition to our flexible work-week configurations, ask about our contractor compensation, as well as our company driver benefits. Talk to our recruiter at 866-711-1390 or submit your application at drivewhitacre.com. You can also follow us on our Whitacre Logistics Facebook page.

Time Out Before Reading Further (A Note About Business Sponsorships Within)

This historic keepsake was made possible by the Williams County community area paid sponsors appearing within. After mailing nearly 18,000 fliers to every address in the county (100% personal and business county addresses) mentioning the forthcoming composition of this keepsake early in 2024, followed by emailing all area Williams County business/organization contacts, and then following up once again via phone calls - an extraordinary amount of effort was made requesting sponsorship support to make this FREE print and digital keepsake possible. Frankly, every effort was made to raise needed funds to provide as many historic pages as possible, we have never made such an A-Z effort in the 23 years I’ve served as a local publisher. Historic content appearing on the following pages is the end result of all these efforts made by our team.

We were pleasantly surprised by both those who partnered with us and, honestly, at times, by those who chose to pass. Having been involved in

numerous community projects in recent decades, this one stands out above all others, and we are grateful to those who teamed with us.

We believe this tribute will serve as a key historic reflection for Williams County for at least the next 25 years. It is hard to determine what kind of readership this tribute will receive between publication in print and online distribution that will remain available for decades to come (likely much longer). I will say it will be among the highest of any local publication I’ve been involved with.

The central point is that little arrives for free in life; it is the local sponsors within our community who made this tribute possible, allowing local readers to enjoy this publication free of charge. This endeavor was no small feat, especially considering the historic highs in printing prices. We did have to place the brakes on some content we were hoping to share due to financial restraints (historic pages cut), but in a time of high inflation within our nation, I am appreciative of the support we did receive so we could publish the level of coverage within.

As you hopefully enjoy this keepsake, we encourage you to carefully read the sponsorships within and consider supporting community-minded businesses and organizations appearing. Each sponsorship placed within this tribute contributed to equal-sized historic content added to the tribute (50/50). The entire content within these pages is a testament to the value of local support.

Thank you sponsors for partnering with us in this endeavor! -Forrest

Welcome To The Williams County 200th Tribute

- Forrest R. Church, Publisher (The Village Reporter) -

Most of the columns / open letters written within this special keepsake will address Williams County historical topics from various invited participants’ perspectives. Having lived in Williams County most of my life in rural West Unity, graduating from Hilltop High School in 1996, and now raising my young family in rural Pioneer (newspaper office in Montpelier), I thought about going a historic direction with my column as well.

Serving as a local publisher for twenty-three years now in Northwest Ohio, I have been saturated with a ton of local history from some of the best historians on the planet (in my opinion). In addition, one of my favorite tasks is reviewing some of our newspaper archives that can date back to the late 1800s, always interesting reflections. I’ve often wondered what publishers were pondering during past world wars, depressions, village fires, etc. Maybe someday a future publisher will wonder what we went through during COVID shutdowns?

I have some of what I consider interesting thoughts related to our area’s history as well. However, in order to eliminate questions concerning this keepsake, while bringing some behind-the-scenes revelation on how this tribute came about, I thought I’d bore you with administration notes instead, via a questions/ answers type forum and hopefully answer questions ahead of time.

Q - WHY WERE ONLY CERTAIN TOWNS SELECTED?

A - The quick answer is all incorporated towns as of 2024 were given historic keepsake page space. We would have loved to include unincorporated towns such as Alvordton, Kunkle, etc, however, sponsorship dollars to cover our costs ultimately determined the level of coverage we were able to provide.

We would have loved to cover the former ghost towns within Williams County as well (not to mention townships), but again, finances and

honestly time determined the size of the tribute.

Everyone in the county was mailed a flyer inviting financial sponsorship participation, the content within was determined by the level of support received (just short of 18,000 mailings inviting participation).

In addition, in late October 2023 when the 200th Williams County Celebration committee requested we compose this keepsake – the early April 2024 countdown went quickly and there were not enough 20-hour days to go in more depth than we did. Not only did newspaper staff work around the clock, but so did numerous volunteers and historians who worked their base job to then put another shift in at night to make this keepsake happen.

We had a pretty clear picture in early March 2024 of how many pages we would print based on financial support and time left before the mid-April festivities in the county kicked off. Frankly, if we had years, I’m not sure we would even come close to the type of detailed coverage fully possible.

Q - WHO WAS INVITED TO PROVIDE COLUMNS / OPEN LETTERS?

A - Elected officials, local historians, along with major employers within the county. We also considered those who responded to our county-wide mailed flyers.

Q - HOW WAS THIS TRIBUTE PAID FOR?

A - Details on finances are covered on the page two column. Printing, payroll (most efforts came via volunteer time), distribution, design costs, etc. were all covered by local sponsorships. Please support these community-minded businesses and organizations.

Q - HOW ACCURATE IS THE HISTORIC CONTENT?

A - History can and often will conflict with itself. Just do some online research on a topic, two different search engines will often give conflicting details. Toss in Artificial Intelligence that often repeats wrong information online and it is easier than ever to have conflicts.

The content within this keepsake came from some of the most trusted experts in Williams County History who have access to various his-

torical content. Even with amazing resources, we did come across some conflicting information, mainly dates and name spellings.

The short answer is we made a strong effort to ensure facts are as accurate as possible. But unless living first person during these historic times, “facts” sometimes are not perfectly clear.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

I have published newspaper columns before concerning the type of news product we could publish if a vast majority of efforts did not revolve around advertisement sales first. The hardcore truth is you cannot sell enough newspapers, unless you live in a market of millions of people, to profit enough to cover basic operation expenses. Each week at the newspaper we have to sell ads, then the level of coverage we provide is based on ad sale results. If we did not have to worry about this task (essentially two businesses within one) and could focus on just news coverage, our 48-page-per-week newspaper could easily double or triple in size giving more local news than ever.

This tribute falls within the same concept. As it is sent to press and eventually placed online, I am fully aware this is a drop in the bucket concerning covering Williams County history. We had office visits and suggestions made by local residents that could have resulted in hundreds of additional pages if time and finances allowed. Sometimes it is hard to realize you have to cap a project. This tribute was among the toughest I have ever had to say, “We worked as hard as possible and now the calendar says ‘time is up.’”

I have often said when officiating a local funeral that the legacy of the loved one cannot adequately be described in an obituary or even a funeral service. The loved one will be remembered best in days, weeks, months and years to come at dinners, social media chats, etc.

As Williams County celebrates 200 years, we are not in the midst of a funeral but a full celebration of our past while looking forward to “life ahead”. May we learn from our county’s past and work hard to ensure a bright future.

I sincerely hope the effort made with this tribute helps, in some form, the realization just how optmistic our county’s future can truly be.

WILLIAMS COUNTY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY

OUR PURPOSE

The Williams County Genealogical Society (WCGS) is a non-profit organization established in 1981 to encourage the search for family history as well as to collect, preserve and disseminate genealogical data and records.

BOARD MEMBERS

President:

Treasurer/Bookkeeper:

Lineage Society Chair:

Membership/Registrar:

Chair:

Pamela Pattison Lash

Penny (Lanius) Rummel

Kim Smith

Kathy Ottenweller

Marty Richie

Bill Priest

Jo Ellen Partee Culbertson

WE ARE THANKFUL FOR OUR ANCESTORS WHO ESTABLISHED OUR COUNTY AND THROUGH THEIR DESCENDANTS WHO CONTINUE THEIR TRADITIONS!

What We Do

The Williams County Genealogical Society holds an annual meeting to join in a family fellowship and honor those whose members who have proven county ancestors into one of our three county lineage societies.

We also host special events with guest speakers, research work sessions, and organize field trips.

We sponsor a Facebook page open to the public to post area genealogical meetings, exchange information and share queries for Williams County Ancestors.

We publish a quarterly newsletter which features genealogical news, events, and research tips and advice. In addition we gather and publish local records.

Why Join WCGS?

Connect with others who can encourage, advice, and share what they know.

Learn best research practices, location of local records, and tips for a successful research.

Find other researchers who are connected to your family’s history and exchange stories.

Share your family history with others in our quarterly newsletter.

Williams County Commissioners

- Bartley E. Westfall, Lewis D. Hilkert & Terry N. Rummel -

The Williams County Commissioners would like to cordially invite you to join us in celebrating Williams County’s 200th Anniversary. As the County gears up to commemorate this significant milestone, a series of events are set to take place in honor of Williams County’s rich history.

On April 1, 1820, the Ohio Legislature enacted legislation to officially establish the name and boundaries of Williams County. The County was named in tribute to American Revolutionary hero David Williams. Williams County’s original boundaries have evolved over the years to shape the vibrant

community we know today.

The first general election was held on April 5, 1824 and marked a pivotal moment in Williams County’s governance.

The inaugural meeting of the Williams County Commissioners was held on June 7, 1824, in what we know as Defiance. This set the stage for a legacy of dedicated service.

The county’s first elected commissioners, Charles Gunn, Jesse Hilton, and Cyrus Hunter, laid the foundation for governance that continues to this day. The first meeting of the Williams County Commissioners was

held in Defiance which was designated as the county seat of Williams County until the county seat was permanently moved to Bryan on February 24, 1841.” The Commissioners’ Journal notes that the commissioners convened at Leavell’s Inn/home. The first official act was as follows: “A petition being presented, it was hereby ordered by the Board of Commissioners that a township be set off in the County of Henry, now attached to the County of Williams, by the name of Richland Township to

CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

Bartley E. Westfall

Lewis D. Hilkert

Terry N. Rummel

Continued: Williams County Commissioners

include the west half of Henry County aforesaid”.

At their first session, the commissioners also created Delaware Township in what is today Defiance and Paulding counties, and appointed William Preston as county collector and Moses Rice as county treasurer.

Over the past two centuries, a lineage of commissioners have faithfully served Williams County, shaping its growth and development. The current Board consists of Bartley E. Westfall, Terry N. Rummel and Lewis D. Hilkert.

In April, 2024 a celebration is being planned to honor the 200th anniversary of Williams County being established as a county government, with the kickoff events being held the weekend of April 19-21, 2024.

Also, in honor of the 200th

anniversary, the Board of Commissioners will hold a special session on June 7, 2024, exactly 200 years from the date of the first county commissioners’ meeting. It is the desire of the Board to honor past commissioners and wish to invite any past commissioners and/or their family members to attend this special event. This meeting will be held at 9 a.m. in the large courtroom on the 3rd Floor of the Williams County Courthouse.

As preparations unfold for the 2024 celebrations, Williams County looks forward to honoring its rich heritage and the visionary leaders who have guided its journey over the past 200 years.

Stay tuned for more updates on the exciting events planned to commemorate this historic occasion.

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."

Sheriff’s Office

- Sheriff Tom Kochert -

Looking back over the last 200 years, it’s hard to imagine what our County would have looked like. Let’s look at a few things that will bring the year 1824 into a clearer focus.

John Quincy Adams won the presidency in the election that year, but was elected by the US House of Representatives. This occurred because of the 4 candidates, none received a majority of the electoral votes. The House held an election, and John Quincy Adams won on the first vote. This essentially redefined the Electoral College as we know it, and was basically the start of the two-party system in the United States.

These United States consisted of 24 states then, and militarily, we were 12 years past the War Of 1812, we were 22 years from the war with Mexico, and 37 years from the start of the Civil War. The United States was experiencing westward advancement, and the Rocky Mountain fur trappers were just starting to infiltrate the vastness of the western beaver populations. These are the Men who will eventually lead the great wagon trains west later

CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

in the 1800’s.

In Sheriff History, the great lawman Wyatt Earp wasn’t born yet, not until 1848. He would go on to set the “industry standard” for The Office of Sheriff as it progressed.

In Williams County, we were a lot bigger! Our County included eight townships that are now part of Defiance County on its south side, and land on the east sides of Millcreek and Brady Townships that is now included in Fulton County. The census of 1830 showed 387 folks calling Williams County home. As the lines adjusted, we now settle in to our roughly 440 square mile tract that I refer to as the cornerstone of the whole state.

I was transplanted here by the State of Ohio, DNR, as your Wildlife Officer (actually state game protector, until 1994 when the name changed). I served you for 25 ½ years in that regard, getting to know every nook and cranny, and

meeting the best folks in the world! I helped re-introduce Wild turkeys, and have watched bobcats, coyotes, and even Bald eagles once again call this corner home.

Williams County is a special place, with rivers, lakes, forests, and quaint villages in a classic mid-western small town setting. It truly is a gem in Ohio’s crown!

As Sheriff since 2020, I am very humbled to serve you again, and want to thank all of you for attending and recognizing what this celebration means. Let’s continue to build a foundation for the future, so that, with God’s help, we leave our children an even better place to live!

Williams County Ohio is a small part of the wonderful state that is Ohio. With her presidents, astronauts, and famous folks in multiple genres, we stand sentinel to the possibilities the future holds. Enjoy our celebration, and may God Bless Williams County!

REMEMBER...WHAT BURNS, NEVER RETURNS

Williams County Local Historian

- Bill Priest -

Williams County could be a rough place 200 years ago, far different than today.

My third great grandparents, John and Anna Smith, lived in a log cabin north of Edon over 175 years ago. They had to fight off wolves several times just to get back to their home at the end of the day. They did it with the help of their dog and a corn cutter made from an old scythe that they usually used to harvest their corn crop.

To get the flour and meal they needed for cooking, they would hook up the oxen to their wagon and drive the wagon from their home about 5 miles northwest of Edon to the West Buffalo grist mill a couple miles east of Blakeslee. It took all day to go there and back, and if they didn’t leave the mill before the sun went down, the wolves would sometimes come back to follow them.

Yes, America has come a long way in 200 years, and so has Williams County. Sure, many of the changes we enjoy have come through the advancements made in our country and the world, but as I think about it, many, so many of the improvements we enjoy today have come through the intentional contributions from people who live here.

My grandparents and their siblings and cousins attended oneroom schools. Those schools transitioned to community-based schools that offered students more opportunities to learn and prosper in a world that had moved into an industrial age. Today, the people of Williams County are proud of new facilities that incorporate technology to help their students through the explosion of an information age to be able to accomplish even greater things in the future. It has only happened because the people of the county want the students to have the best opportunities possible.

When our country and world was challenged from without or within, people from Williams County responded to keep it a free

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

Over 65 Years of Local Manufacturing

Since 1958, Allied Moulded Products has grown from a small garage business into an industry leader, manufacturing premium electrical products in Bryan, OH.

and safe place. When I stand in the cemeteries of the county, I am humbled to see so many flags next to the gravestones of people who answered the call during all the wars and conflicts through the years as well as during peacetime. They were all willing to serve and risk their lives so that we could continue to live in a free land.

And I think of all the people who supported the Williams County Veterans Memorial, which is such a wonderful commemoration of their service. Each time there is an event at the building, we walk by the monuments filled with the names of people who have served, and they remind us of the sacrifice they made so we can live our lives to the full.

Our communities have spacious parks filled with areas equipped for all kinds of activities and entertainment, including the new Fountain City Amphitheater in Bryan, the development of new walking and biking paths, such as the Iron Horse River Trail in Montpelier, pools and splash pads as well as parks around the county filled with wildlife to be explored, all as the result of people with the vision who saw the value in their development.

Early hospitals were often in the homes of doctors such as the Dr. Harry Wertz hospital at his home that opened in 1910 in Montpelier, and Dr. W. L. Hogue’s hospital there, too. That effort expanded when Dr. Don Cameron established a hospital in Bryan in 1936 and later when a group of people from the northern part of the county led by my grandfather John Rundell built a hospital in Montpelier that opened in 1952. Today we are pleased to see the modern

facilities they have become along with a caring staff comprised mostly of people who live in the area, as well as physician groups and clinics, including those that specialize in radiation oncology and dialysis, that are all in the county.

What started out as the twostory brick county infirmary in 1874 largely for people who were indigent, was replaced in 1966 by a three-story nursing home known as Hillside Nursing Home. That building has been renovated and incorporated into what has now become a fine facility known as Hillside Country Living, offering senior apartments, assisted living, skilled nursing care and a dementia care unit for the needs of the county through the extensive efforts of several county officials through the years.

We have been truly blessed by the charitable foundations and community leaders who have been supporting wonderful improvement projects with needed funds and guidance as well as development groups and chambers that keep our commerce flowing. Business leaders not only provide important employment opportunities, but often go beyond their immediate company’s concerns to enrich the communities of which they are a part.

As I think about individuals through the years, there have certainly been important people from Williams County who have stepped out into national and international recognition. These would include Astronaut Tom Henricks who broke the bounds of earth and flew missions for NASA into space, Civil War hero William Knight who was part of the famed Great Locomotive

CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

Continued: Bill Priest (Local Historian)

Chase and received one of the first Medals of Honor from Abraham Lincoln, and Paul Siple who was an Antarctic explorer including two expeditions with Admiral Byrd.

Fred Bauer served as the editor of Guideposts magazine, an inspiration to millions. When she was Inspector General for the U. S. Department of Transportation, Mary Fackler Schiavo challenged the system as she worked to make air travel safer, and professional football standout Dave Herman who thrilled us as he played for the New York Jets from 1964 to 1973 and garnered a prized Super Bowl ring as the team beat the heavily-favored Baltimore Colts in Super Bowl III.

These are only a few of the names that come to mind, and I am certain that I am missing other notable citizens who deserve to be included.

And just as these people have made their marks upon the world and are deserving of our praise, I also want to remember the un-

sung and mostly anonymous people who live in Williams County and who make life better for their neighbors. They are the ones who shoveled paths and shared food and comfort to help others when the Blizzard of ’78 shut down the county, who joined together to rebuild the grandstand at the fairgrounds, who responded with chain saws to clear roads and brought supplies for residents of Nettle Lake after the tornado wreaked havoc in the community in 1991.

They are the ones who bought certificates of time whose proceeds were used to purchase new clocks when the ones on the county courthouse quit working, who bought seats to refurbish the Bryan Arts and Education building, who build new houses through Habitat for Humanity, who are 4-H leaders and Sunday School teachers, who serve as emergency responders, who support the Sanctuary Homeless Shelter, and the Humane Society, and Sarah’s Friends, and the Women’s Health Resource

Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church

01018 Cicero Road, Edgerton, OH 43517

Sunday Divine Service 10:00 a.m.

Rev. Daniel Broaddus

Center, local food pantries, and other worthy causes.

Williams County has certainly become a better place over these past 200 years, and it has largely been the result of the dedicated, intentional efforts of people who live and work here in the county.

Thanks to all of you who have been a part of that! We can truly celebrate being a part of Williams County!

Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church of Edgerton, Ohio, was organized by one of the pioneer Lutheran missionaries in Northwestern Ohio, the Rev. Adam Detzer. At one time, the Rev. Detzer served thirteen preaching stations in addition to Edgerton.

These stations were scattered over four counties: Williams, Fulton, Henry, and Defiance. Sometime after Pastor Detzer began preaching the Word of God in this area, this congregation, Zion Lutheran Church, was organized.

Formal organization of the congregation took place on July 22nd, 1846. Zion became a member of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod in 1861.

It has participated in the work of that larger body ever since. Recent pastors have been Daniel Broaddus, Kurt Letcher, Chris Sigmon, and Lanny Zupp.

To God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be all the glory.

Manufactured Housing Enterprises

Brock Frazer Director of Human Resources

In 1963, James L. Newman, Sr. and his wife Marcy, purchased 45 acres of farmland between Bryan and Edgerton on US Hwy 6 which consisted of a farm house and two buildings. They moved their family, which at the time, consisted of 6 children and themselves to the farm house located on the property. Jim had previously been in partners with his brother, John, with a used mobile home and car lot business in Edon, Ohio and wanted to try a new venture of building and selling new mobile homes. Jim applied and was granted a small business loan in 1968 in the amount of $75,000. He followed his vision of “Building Dreams, One Home at a Time”.

Manufactured Housing Enterprises, Inc. is Ohio’s largest home builder. Basedin Bryan, Ohio we have been building homes since 1965. For over 55-yearswe have been adapting and evolving to maintain our status as a leader inproduction innovation.Manufactured Housing Enterprises Inc. is a family owned business, which means we will be here long after the

Mobile Home Estates became incorporated and he started building homes under the trade name of “Mansion” in 1969. The first part of the manufacturing facility that was built by Newman was approximately 4,000 sq. ft. and has since grown to over 500,000 sq. ft. under roof and located on approximately 150 acres. MHE is the largest manufactured housing manufacturer in the State of Ohio. We manufacture both HUD and Modular homes and we currently produce over 1,200 floors per year.

In a highly competitive industry, Manufactured Housing Enterprises, Inc. has continued to show substantial sales gains throughout the years. Even though the

floor plans and the decors have changed over time, the theme of MHE’s product line has remained consistent over the last 56 years of doing business and that is to provide quality housing at affordable prices for our retailers and their customers.

sale is made. As with any company our most important asset is our employees. Our sales staff is as knowledgeable as any in the business with easily over 100 years of experience. Our shop craftsman average over 10-years seniority. There is onlyone way to build a house - the right way. We build dreams, one home at a time

We have a network of retailers that sell our homes from Michigan to Tennessee and as far east as New York and as far west as North Dakota. We acknowledge that the many employees that have been employed with our company over the years is a huge part of the success of our business. We employee approximately 150 employees and work first shift only, Monday through Friday. We strive to keep “family time” as a priority and remember that “bigger isn’t always better”, therefore, we don’t schedule work on Saturdays or Sundays.

We offer a great benefit package for our employees including health and life insurance, 401k, paid vacations, paid personal days, 10 paid holidays, etc. Jim unfortunately passed away in 2014, however, his children have continued the family business along with the great “team” they have working for them. Please take the time to visit our website at www.mheinc.com and view our photo gallery of our homes!

Williams County Local Historian

- Donald Allison -

To truly understand today you need to know how we got here.

And knowing how we got here helps us better navigate what lies ahead.

Williams County’s Bicentennial is a wonderful opportunity to look back and appreciate our heritage, to more deeply understand what made our part of the world the unique place it is today.

I personally feel a deep connection to Williams County. Not only are my roots here – I

was born here and have lived in the county for most of my life – but my family’s presence here dates to the county’s early days, the 1840s.

My Great-Great-Great-Grandfather John Allison established his farm just south of Stryker, ten years before Stryker was founded. A portion of his farm was incorporated as part of Stryker, and today there are two Allison additions to the village that came from his farm.

Ironically, I grew up in a house in Stryker built by my ancestors, at the corner of Defiance Street and, in a source of personal pride, Allison Street. This of course is located in one of the Allison additions. I recall my grandfather pointing out the house in which he was born south of Stryker. That home is within sight of Boynton Cemetery, which was known earlier as Allison Cemetery and is final home to many of my ancestors.

As much as my family is very much a part of Williams County’s history, Williams County is very definitely a part of me. It’s been my lifelong home, and my bones will rest here long after I am gone.

My grandfather helped instill my love of history, particularly local history, with the stories he used to share. He talked about how things used to be, buildings, businesses, people and experiences from his past, and he made those experiences come alive to me. Although others have helped to foster my appreciation of history, including my parents, and aunts and uncles and teachers, Grandpa laid the foundation.

Much of the history Grandpa shared was very personal to him – he usually touched on things he experienced and remembered, or had been told.

One story Grandpa shared has stuck

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

First Baptist Church of Stryker has been serving Stryker and sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ for 155 YEARS!

We believe that an effective church is one that helps people connect the Bible to their needs in the present while looking to the future for the return of Jesus Christ

Continued: Donald Allison (Local Historian)

with me all these years. He told about the Stryker High School basketball team of 1922-1923, which advanced to the state tournament. That year Stryker shared a coach with West Unity, Ralph Geesey. When the teams played during the regular season Geesey sat in the stands and didn’t coach either team.

Come tournament time, to avoid the teams facing each other the coach entered them in different classes, Stryker in Class A and West Unity in Class B. Both teams – yes both – advanced to the state level before being eliminated.

I didn’t comprehend until years later why that Stryker team was so important to my grandfather. Grandpa, as I mentioned,

was born near Stryker. What I didn’t mention was that when he was 10 years old his father, my great-grandfather, died. Unable to maintain the farm while raising a large family, my great grandmother moved to Bryan. Grandpa, being one of the oldest children, had to quit school after the sixth grade to go to work to help support the family.

When I did the math long after Grandpa died I realized those Stryker players would have been his friends. Had his father not died, Grandpa would have been a member of that storied 1923 team. He and his siblings were talented athletes, making their marks in many sports. Grandpa’s brother Don, my namesake, was

a minor league baseball player before he lost his life aboard the U.S.S. Little, a destroyer escort sunk by Japanese kamikazees in May of 1945.

I remain amazed by my grandfather. Despite the early end to his formal schooling he never stopped learning. He was a restaurant owner, and one of the most intelligent people I’ve ever known. Whenever we visited him his coffee table was covered with reading material – books, newspapers and magazines, to the point it seemed he nearly always was reading.

Like Grandpa, a good deal of the history I share is personal. I find it interesting to note that as Williams County celebrates its 200th anniversary, I have

been around, and can personally share, a third of that history.

Just the other day, at the grocery store, I noticed a Hershey chocolate bar now costs $1.49. I noted to the cashier that I remember when I purchased a Hershey bar larger than that one for a nickel. And for another nickel, I’d purchase a six-ounce bottle of Coke.

As a young reporter with the The Bryan Times I interviewed many older residents, among them people who were celebrating their 100th birthday more than 40 years ago. They recalled seeing their first automobiles and airplanes, hearing their first radio broadcasts, using their

CONTINUED ON PAGE 21

Continued: Donald Allison (Local Historian)

first indoor toilets and getting electricity in their homes, all as adults.

I’ve interviewed World War I and World War II veterans, as well as those of the Korean and Vietnam conflicts. And as a journalist I’ve created the first draft of history. I realize newspapers indeed are a chronicle of history, as I’ve illuminated much of our history based on old newspaper accounts. And in fact I began my journalism career 50 years ago with the Stryker Advance, a predecessor of The Village Reporter.

That, my friends, is history on a personal level, the sort of history we should acquire and learn from the older local residents still with us.

Not only was I fortunate to have my grandfather share tidbits of history with me, later others took over the role of mentors. At Stryker High School I studied history under Virgil Mentley. The way he shared his experiences serving our nation in World War II, and passed on his insights into the Civil War, inspired me to learn more.

As a young man in my early 20s, more than four decades ago, I was invited to join the Williams County Historical Society Board of Trustees. In those early days of my involvement I was blessed to become acquainted with longtime historian Keith Porter. Although our association was brief – he passed just a few years after I joined the board – I reveled in his knowledge and memory.

Many of the Society’s trustees at that time were founders of the organization, and as a young board member I watched, learned and listened. Bit by bit I took a more active role on the board, including serving as an officer, and I felt and still feel great pride in being a part of preserving our local past.

Sadly though, person by person, those founders and older board members passed. During one of our January reorganizational meetings not too many years ago I looked around and realized I was the senior member of the Williams County Historical Society board. That was a sobering moment, and I feel a distinct weight of responsibility to carry the torch of those capable people who came before me. And I thank them for their hard work and dedication, for the sites and artifacts they preserved, and for the wisdom and knowledge they shared with me in their day.

Because of the Williams County Historical Society our county is home to a wonderful museum of local history. The main museum on the fairgrounds in Montpelier features several galleries chock full of local artifacts of the past, more than can be displayed at any one time. Be sure to stop in from time to time to what new displays we have created. It may be history, but we strive to keep it fresh and alive.

Currently we have artifacts and a special display focusing on Civil War hero William J. Knight of Stryker, who was the railroad engineer during the Great Locomotive Chase involving a stolen Confederate locomotive. This is truly the stuff of legend, a local man known throughout the United States in his lifetime.

We also have special displays focusing on Paul Siple of Montpelier, a renowned polar explorer and inventor of the wind chill factor, and Williams County native son Tom Hendricks, a famed Space Shuttle astronaut.

The Hall of Fame at the museum highlights many individuals who have contributed to Williams County’s evolution throughout the decades.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

Continued: Donald Allison (Local Historian)

The main museum houses a gallery dedicated to our past native American presence, and our Main Street gallery depicting local businesses of the past. The society also is looking to restore a former display of locally made products from throughout our past, such as the famous blankets made by the West Unity Woolen Mill.

For several years the Historical Society’s main museum has housed the collection of the Williams County Military Museum, and just a few months ago the two organizations joined forces to make the armed forces collection a permanent part of the Williams County Historical Society’s collection.

Also part of the main museum site are the Lett Log House, an original local log cabin that was relocated to the fair-

grounds; a recreated railroad museum with artifacts related to the history of the rails in our county; and an agricultural museum devoted to the county’s farm heritage.

Satellite sites of the Historical Society include the Hay Jay School, a fully equipped oneroom schoolhouse left as it was when it closed in 1957; a set of Hopewell Native American mounds; and the Quaker Meeting House, a circa 1850 house of worship acquired by the society during my own tenure on the board.

I’m also fortunate to have been approached to help organize the Stryker Area Heritage Council. As a founding member I was able to help establish the Stryker Area Heritage Center in the old railroad de-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

Continued: Donald Allison (Local Historian)

pot building – and apply much of what I learned from the Williams County Historical Society founders in the process.

When he was a Stryker resident Erie Sauder, the founder of Sauder Woodworking and later Historic Sauder Village, had purchased the depot building and donated it to the village, and Stryker city leaders leased the building to serve as the Heritage Center. Not only is the historic depot preserved, but it houses artifacts and displays to tell the history of the Stryker area.

As you can see, our local Williams County Historical Society and Stryker Area Heritage Councils are perfect examples that history can be exciting.

Another wonderful example of how captivating history can be is the “Would You Believe? It Happened in Williams County” cartoons created by Russ Hilton. I

was blessed to know Russ, and to assist him in his research and even coauthor the texts of some of his cartoons. Although Russ has been gone for years, his cartoons remain in book form and in newspaper archives, and can continue to inform and enlighten people for generations. His family donated the originals to the Williams County Historical Society.

I am beyond grateful to be asked to speak during the April 19 kickoff to this wonderful Williams County Bicentennial Celebration. I feel there are others who may be more deserving, who have done more to document our county’s history than myself. I want to recognize them for their amazing work in research, books and other ways of sharing their findings, Richard Cooley and Kevin Maynard. I am proud to call them friends.

This Bicentennial is made

Working together to make a difference in the lives of our friends, neighbors and the community.

For more information, contact your Edward Jones Financial Advisor Edward Jones cannot accept gift cards, cash or checks as donations.

possible by a number of local people who care, who have been willing to put in the time and effort to organize our anniversary recognition. This celebration actually has been in the works for years. We originally planned the Bicentennial for 2020, to mark the 200th anniversary of Williams County’s formation, when it was named and the original geographical boundaries were drawn.

COVID-19 had other ideas, however, as the pandemic shutdown came only a couple of weeks or so before that commemoration was to begin.

So I was thrilled when I learned a group was stepping forward again – some of the same people and some new volunteers – to make it happen. So our 2024 commemoration will mark the Bicentennial of the county’s government being formally estab-

lished in 1824.

Delayed, perhaps, but no less significant. And as I’ve said, I am honored to be a part of it.

There is so much history to be recalled, so many lessons to be learned, so many people and events of our past to be honoredif I was tasked with doing so, I feel I could fill this special edition myself. I, however, do not need to do that. Instead, many others have shared their personal thoughts and recollections, and very well written and researched historical content has been submitted.

At this point I’m gearing up for our events, and I look very much forward to reading and enjoying this special edition.

I sincerely hope you do as well, and will join us for this once-ina-lifetime celebration of Williams County’s heritage. >

Door dings, hail damage, and crease repair

Spangler Candy Company

Spangler Candy Company has been a part of Williams County for 118 years – a little more than half of the 200 we are celebrating for the county now.

Our founding fathers – Arthur, Omar, and Ernest Spangler – were honest, practical, market-wise and independent leaders who believed in being a positive force in the local community. When Arthur Spangler purchased the Gold Leaf Baking Powder Company in 1906 at a sheriff’s sale in Defiance, he immediately brought the business to Bryan and Williams County.

Throughout the century that followed, our company’s connection to and support from Williams County has helped us and many other industries here to grow and thrive. Williams

County leaders have had the foresight to develop and establish utilities, roads, and transportation, including the airport, railroads, and Ohio Turnpike Exit 13. These are things that those of us who live here tend to take for granted, yet they are critical to our county’s viability.

Spangler Candy Company family members and employees have made and continue to make significant contributions to impact our county’s success.

My great-great grandfather, Omar Spangler, in the early 1900s helped start Bryan Municipal Utilities, which in 1946 constructed the water tower now located on the Spangler Candy Company campus. That tower supplies water used in manufacturing our candy and to many other businesses and residents.

My cousin, Dean Spangler, in the 1970s was involved in the growth of the Williams County Airport, and helped start the Fly-In Breakfast, an annual event that attracts thousands of people and which Spangler continues to actively support.

Spangler and its employees also remain involved in supporting physical investments such as the Williams County YMCA, local schools, and the Williams County Port Authority; and in people, through building relationships and collaborating with businesses, schools and related organizations to enhance workforce education opportunities.

In 2023, we opened Spangler Candy World on the east side of the square in Bryan. We are confident this new experience will serve as yet another attraction to draw visitors to the county, and perhaps some of those visitors will make Williams County their home.

Our county’s success is a perfect example of the adage that “a rising tide lifts all boats”. We are grateful to see our county focus on planning and infrastructure development that matters, so our communities grow, our schools progress, our businesses and industries thrive, our economy improves, and our people flourish.

Spangler Candy Company looks forward to a strong future in Williams County. Happy 200th!

In 1906, Arthur Spangler purchased the Gold Leaf Baking Powder Company in Defiance and brought it to Williams County. Now called Spangler Candy Company, the business has grown from a small building in downtown Bryan to almost 1 million square feet.

Spangler employees have been an integral part of many great things in Williams County through their involvement in community organizations and activities. Today we have nearly 600 employees who continue to contribute to our county’s accomplishments.

Two of our brands - Dum-Dums® and Bit-O-Honey® - celebrate their 100th anniversaries in 2024, and Necco® Wafers has been manufactured for more than 175 years. Combined with our other brands, these iconic treats bring smiles and help make life sweet in Williams County.

The Dum-Dums Water Tower, located on Spangler’s campus and painted in 2022.

2020 Bicentennial Plans Nixed By COVID Pandemic

By: Kevin Maynard LOCAL HISTORIAN

Williams County was created by the Ohio Legislature in 1820 and celebrated its 200th anniversary or bicentennial in 2020.

To commemorate this milestone, a Williams County Bicentennial Committee—composed of local volunteers and chaired by County Commissioner Lew Hilkert—began meeting monthly in November 2019 to make plans to mark this significant occasion.

The Bicentennial Committee scheduled an April 1, 2020 kickoff event at the historic Williams County courthouse in Bryan featuring Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and Lt. Gov. (and Williams County native) Jon Husted as keynote speakers. The event was to include self-guided courthouse tours and a presentation on Williams County’s history by local historian/author Don Allison dressed in period attire.

Other 2020 activities planned by the Bicentennial Committee included:

•An entry in all local parades with the Williams County Historical Society’s county courthouse replica and an “1820-2020” banner.

•A bicentennial theme for the annual Bryan

Jubilee parade. The Bryan Area Chamber of Commerce also agreed to place red, white and blue lights in the Bard Centennial Fountain on the courthouse lawn.

•Sale of Williams County Bicentennial logo T-shirts, polo shirts and lapel pins.

•Historical activities at the open air pavilion and Williams County Historical Society museum during the Williams County fair in September. Williams County Veteran Services planned a time capsule to be placed during the Fair’s “Veterans’ Day.”

Invitations to the Williams County Bicentennial kickoff event were distributed in early March 2020, approximately three weeks in advance of the inaugural April 1, 2020 activity. Gov. DeWine and Lt. Gov. Husted confirmed their attendance. Everything was in readiness to kick off Williams County’s 200th birthday celebration. And then the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic brought the bicenten-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 29

nial plans to a resounding halt.

On March 16, 2020—days after invitations were distributed—the April 1 Williams County Bicentennial kickoff event was “postponed,” with Commissioner Hilkert noting at the time, “We were informed the state said that

due to the coronavirus, it was just too many people in one space. We’ll have to wait and see how the (health crisis) plays out.”

The 2020 Bryan Jubilee and parade were subsequently can-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

ORIGINAL INVITATION - A photo of the original invitation before the outbreak of COVID changed plans.

Continued: 2020 Bicentennial Plans Nixed

celled. The Williams County fair was also nixed after Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine issued an order calling for all county fairs to strictly be junior fairs, with 4-H events and animal shows only.

Although it wasn’t on the scale originally planned, Williams County did celebrate its bicentennial on July 29, 2020, during a Bryan City Band concert at the MacDonald-Ruff Ice Arena in Bryan. During this event, which allowed for COVID-19 pandemic outdoor “social distancing,” the band performed an arrangement of “The Minstrel’s Return From the War,” composed in 1825, and “The Old Oaken Bucket,” adapted from a poem written in 1820.

The event included a brief Williams County history presented by local historian/author Don Allison. Bryan Mayor Carrie Schlade, State Rep. Jim Hoops and County Commissioner Terry Rummel spoke about living and working in Williams County. Rep. Hoops presented the County Commissioners with an Ohio House of Representatives resolution recognizing the county’s bicentennial.

In addition, during the summer of 2020, The Village Reporter and Bryan Times newspapers published souvenir Williams County pictorial history supplements.

The 200th anniversary of the creation on Williams County government in 2024 has given local residents another bite at the bicentennial apple. A reconstituted committee including a number of volunteers who also served on the 2020 version of the Bicentennial Committee, is planning activities to celebrate Williams County government’s 200 birthday this year.

What Do You Enjoy About Williams County?

Williams County Seniors Share Thoughts

RICHARD ROSENBURY DEKALB, IND. STEVEN COX BRYAN

EDWARD CHARLES BRYAN

SUSIE GRUBB BRYAN

DALE MILLER BRYAN

PAT COOPMAN STRYKER

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I DIE!?

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“Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of re.” Paid Ad by Dad’s Place

The Formation Of Williams County, Ohio

By: Kevin M. Maynard LOCAL HISTORIAN

As local residents commemorate the 200th anniversary of creation of Williams County government in 2024, the story of our county’s birth and early development--as well as its common heritage with neighboring Defiance County--has not been well documented and remains

unfamiliar to many local residents.

CREATION OF WILLIAMS COUNTY

On Feb. 12, 1820, the Ohio Legislature adopted an act creating 14 new counties in the northwestern part of the state out of territory the United States acquired from Native Americans. The fourteenth new county was

As Williams County is celebrating its 200th Anniversary as a county government in 2024, the Williams County Commissioners would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank all of the County’s elected officials, both past and present, who have helped guide and shape Williams County into the proud community that we have today.

Happy 200th Anniversary Williams County!

Williams County Commissioners

Bartley E. Westfall Terry N. Rummel Lewis D. Hilkert

named Williams County in honor of Revolutionary War hero David Williams, one of three captors of British spy Major John Andre. Andre was carrying plans of the American fort and garrisons at West Point provided by Benedict Arnold.

Arnold and British representatives had devised a plan— Arnold was to obtain control of West Point, and the British would mount an expedition against Gen. George Washington’s forces. Arnold planned to surrender West Point, cutting off Washington’s supplies, aid and place of retreat. This would force Gen. Washington to surrender, ending the Revolutionary War. When Williams, Paulding and Van Wart captured Major Andre, the conspirators’ plot was foiled.

The Feb. 12, 1820 act of the Legislature—which became effective April 1, 1820—also established Williams County boundaries. When it was created, the county was a large rectangle containing about 720 square miles, compared to its present area of approximately 420 square miles.

In 1820, Williams County’s southern boundary was 12 miles further south. The county’s eastern border was the present east line of Springfield Township, extended north to the OhioMichigan line. Williams County’s eastern boundary became a

COUNTY NAMESAKE - David Williams “Life Mask” by Browere. A 1937 Bryan Press newspaper article states: "After the war Williams bought a farm near the Catskill Mountains. He died near Livingstonville, N.Y., Aug. 2, 1831, and was buried in Schoharie. The photograph was taken from a life mask of Williams thought to have been made about 1826."

staggered line when territory on the east edge of Millcreek and Brady townships was included in Fulton County upon its creation in 1850.

Williams County’s northern boundary was a matter of dispute between Ohio and the Michigan Territory that threatened to become a war. Ohio de-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 38

Continued: Formation Of Williams County, Ohio

clared the existing state line as its northern border. Michigan claimed jurisdiction south to the present southern border of Northwest, Bridgewater, Madison and Millcreek townships.

The strip of land between the two lines, which extended from the Indiana line to Lake Erie and included Toledo, became known as the “disputed territory.” The conflict smoldered for nearly 20 years before erupting as the “Ohio and Michigan War” in the mid1830s.

The Ohio and Michigan War was peacefully settled in 1836 by allowing Ohio to keep the disputed territory and giving Michigan its upper peninsula as compensation.

DEFIANCE

BECOMES THE WILLIAMS COUNTY SEAT

When the Ohio General Assembly created Williams County in 1820, there wasn’t a sufficient number of settlers in Williams and its neighboring counties to justify creation of individual county governments.

The Ohio Legislature instead established a regional county government at Maumee, which was then included in Wood County. The General Assembly also attached Hancock, Henry, Paulding, Putnam and Williams counties to Wood County for governmental purposes.

In 1823, the county seat was moved across the Maumee River to Perrysburg. Perrysburg, unfortunately, was no closer to local residents than Maumee.

On Feb. 2, 1824, the Ohio Legislature organized Williams Coun-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 39

Continued: Formation Of Williams County, Ohio

ty, authorizing the creation of its own county government. The General Assembly also attached Henry, Paulding and Putnam counties to Williams County for governmental purposes, and designated Defiance the county seat “until otherwise provided by law.”

FIRST WILLIAMS COUNTY OFFICIALS ELECTED

On April 5, 1824, voters in Williams, Henry, Putnam and Paulding counties elected the first Williams County officials. There were only four elected county offices at that time—auditor, coroner, sheriff and commissioner. The remaining county officers were appointed.

At Williams County’s first election, Timothy S. Smith was elected auditor; John Oliver, coroner; Charles Gunn, commissioners.

On June 7, 1824, Commissioners Gunn, Hilton and Hunter convened for the first time at Defiance. The commissioners’ first official act was as follows: “A petition being presented, it was hereby ordered by the Board of Commissioners that a township be set off in the County of Henry, now attached to the County of Williams, by the name of Richland Township; to include the west half of Henry County aforesaid.”

Defiance’s founders, Benjamin Leavell and Horatio G. Phillips, allowed the county to use the upper story of their warehouse on the Maumee River bank at the end of Jefferson Street as a courtroom. This made Leavell and Phillips’ warehouse the first Williams County courthouse located with

CONTINUED ON PAGE 40

“United With The Community”

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West Unity, Ohio

Continued: Formation Of Williams County, Ohio

in its borders. The warehouse may have also housed the first county offices.

DEFIANCE BECOMES THE PERMANENT WILLIAMS COUNTY SEAT

When the Ohio General Assembly organized Williams County in 1824, Defiance was designated its temporary county seat “until otherwise provided by law.” Understandably, the county commissioners were reluctant to spend tax dollars constructing public buildings such as a courthouse and jail until the county seat’s permanent location was determined. Local historian William Shinn wrote, “the question of a permanent site agitated the public mind considerably during the years of 1824-25.”

On Jan. 13, 1825, the Ohio Legislature appointed commissioners “to locate and establish the permanent seat of justice in and for the county of Williams.” The commissioners entertained proposals for a number of county seat locations, including the

existing Defiance site.

Defiance’s founders Benjamin Leavell and Horatio Phillips offered to donate one-third of their available town lots to the county in exchange for Defiance being designated the permanent Williams County seat. The pair further agreed to “build… a good, substantial jail on the public square [in Defiance].”

On Oct. 20, 1825, the state commissioners accepted Leavell and Phillips’ offer, designating Defiance as the “permanent” Williams County seat.

WILLIAMS COUNTY’S FIRST COURTHOUSE BUILT IN DEFIANCE

As part of the agreement making Defiance the Williams County seat, town founders, Benjamin Leavell and Horatio Phillips agreed to allow the county to use their Jefferson Street warehouse for a courtroom “until they can be accommodated elsewhere.”

Research failed to uncover a record of the county paying

CONTINUED ON PAGE 41

FIRST COURTHOUSE - In 1832, after occupying various locations, Williams County completed its first courthouse on Wayne Avenue, north of Second Street in what is now Defiance, Ohio. -Kevin Maynard collection.

Continued: Formation Of Williams County, Ohio

FIRST COURTHOUSE

rent for use of Leavell and Phillips’ warehouse until December 1829. Based on available information, it appears the county had free use of the facility for five years.

At their March 1, 1830 session, the Williams County commissioners directed the county auditor to find a courtroom “on the most reasonable terms” pos-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 42

• Service Connected Compensation

• Education / Training

• Headstones

• Appeals

• Home Loan Guarantee

• Dependents & Survivor Benefits

• Disability Pension

• Life Insurance

• Military Discharge Review

• Widows Pension

• Burial Benefits

• Healthcare/Prescriptions

• All things Veteran Related

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

• 48 Hour Notice Required to Arrange Transportation Providing Advisement & Assistance with Benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs

Providing Supplemental Financial Assistance on a Temporary Basis to Eligible Veterans and Dependants:

• Rent / Mortgage • Utilities

Food

• Gasoline To / From Work or School

• Propane / Heating costs

***Other Needs on a case-by-case basis***

TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM

Providing Transportation to VA Medical Appointments without regard to Financial Need to the Following Facilities:

• Fort Wayne VAMC

• Toledo CBOC

• Ann Arbor VAMC

• Compensation and Pension Exams - Direct to Appointment

- A vintage photo of the first Williams County courthouse in Defiance. (Defiance Public Library collection)

Continued: Formation Of Williams County, Ohio

sible. It’s not known whether court was held in Leavell and Phillips’ warehouse in 1830, but the county rented an office for the auditor and commissioners at other locations that year.

On July 9, 1831 the commissioners awarded a courthouse construction contract to Foreman Evans for $987. The county commissioners accepted the new courthouse from the contractor on Dec. 3, 1832.

The two-story brick structure stood on the east side of Wayne Avenue, north of Second Street in Defiance. Its Wayne Street entrance opened into the courtroom, sparsely furnished with a dozen chairs, two or three tables and benches for the jury and spectators. Large windows illuminated the courtroom, and heat was supplied by a fireplace on the north wall. The rear door provided access to a wooden frame outhouse or privy. The building’s second floor was divided into two offices.

1604 Magda Drive

After the county seat was moved to Bryan in 1841, the brick courthouse was sold to Elias Shirley for $585.83 and was converted into a residence. The building was sold to the U.S. government on March 17, 1909, for $4,500. In 1912 the former Williams County courthouse was razed to make room for construction of the Defiance Post Office, which still occupies this historic site.

WILLIAMS COUNTY’S FIRST SETTLER ARRIVES BY 1827

CONTINUED ON PAGE 43

Montpelier, OH 43543

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Continued: Formation Of Williams County, Ohio

When Williams County was organized in 1824, available evidence indicates there were no settlers within its current boundaries. The 1830 U.S. census reported 387 people living within the old, larger county limits, most of whom were reportedly Defiance area residents.

The first permanent settler within current Williams County borders is believed to be Samuel Holton Jr., who settled along Fish Creek in St. Joseph Township by January 1827. Although the “first settler” honor has traditionally been bestowed on James T. Guthrie, research indicates Guthrie didn’t permanently settle in Springfield Township until several years after Holton’s arrival.

In 1830, with the exception of Samuel Holton Jr., there were few, if any, settlers within pres-

ent Williams County. However, in the early 1830s, increasing numbers of pioneers arrived seeking cheap, fertile farmland.

Williams County’s population increased from 387 in 1830 to 4,465 in 1840. The population of the county’s present townships grew from a possible handful in 1830 to 2,377 in 1840, outnumbering residents in the eight townships that in 1845 became part of Defiance County.

As population increased in outlying townships, the county seat location at Defiance in Williams County’s extreme southeast corner became increasingly unpopular.

BRYAN BECOMES THE COUNTY SEAT

On March 13, 1839, the Ohio General Assembly adopted a resolution to hold an

election and let local citizens decide whether to relocate the county seat. When the results of this election were tallied in the fall of 1839, a large majority voted to evaluate other sites.

On March 22, 1840, the Ohio Legislature appointed a threemember commission to review the county seat location. The state commission, accompanied by the Williams County commissioners, visited various sites including Defiance and a heavilywooded, swampy site in Section 17 of Pulaski Township offered by John A. Bryan and Dr. William Trevitt of Columbus.

The reasons behind the state committee’s decision have long been the subject of speculation, and the facts will probably never be completely known. The simple NAMESAKE - John Alexander Bryan, one of the City of Bryan’s founders and its namesake was a key figure in moving the courthouse from Defiance to Bryan, Ohio. -Kevin Maynard collection

CONTINUED ON PAGE 44

Continued: Formation Of Williams County, Ohio

truth may be that the locating committee accepted what they believed was the best offer.

In exchange for moving the county seat to the center of the southwest quarter of Section 17—the village of Bryan didn’t yet exist—John A. Bryan, Charles Butler and the American Land Company offered to donate two acres of land for a public square. The county commissioners could also select two town lots as public building sites. Bryan and Trevitt further agreed to build a temporary courthouse and construct “neat and appropriate public buildings” costing at least $8,500 within four years.

Geographic location was the primary reason for relocating the county seat. One report states that Bryan and Trevitt’s site was within 80 rods (1,320 feet) of the geographic center of old, larger

Williams County.

By July 1, 1840, the locating committee accepted Bryan and Trevitt’s offer. Everything considered, it would have been difficult to justify another choice. Nevertheless, much bitterness grew out of the decision. The people of Defiance were particularly incensed and remained so until creation of Defiance County in 1845.

CARVING OUT THE NEW COUNTY SEAT

On July 14, 1840, two weeks after Bryan and Trevitt signed the agreement to relocate the county seat to their land, John A. Bryan had the village of Bryan surveyed.

Descriptions of early Bryan indicate that the town site was little more than a swamp. Drainage was very poor, and the court-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 45

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house square was especially low and marshy. It is claimed that there was once a pond on the square where fish were caught.

In late 1840 or early 1841 Bryan and Trevitt had a two-story log courthouse constructed southeast of the intersection of Main and Mulberry streets. This structure was approximately 40 feet long and 25 feet wide. A door was located on the south side of the building with the judge’s bench at the north end. Court was held on the ground floor and according to the early pioneers, the upper story was not used for any purpose. The first term of court in Bryan convened in this log building on April 19, 1841.

Aaron Bennett, who served as a juror in the log courthouse, said he could look out the windows and see deer in the woods

surrounding the building. As there was no jury room provided in the courthouse, jurors convened in the woods and sat on logs while deliberating their verdicts.

A one-story log building, approximately eight by ten feet in size, was erected on the south side of the square to house county offices and records. However, it is said that county records were stored at various places, including Jacob Youse’s tannery on South Main Street.

With new county buildings in Bryan ready for use, the commissioners, on February 24, 1841 ordered, “all the records and journals belonging to the county with the statutes, desk, stoves, stationeries and all the furniture belonging to the of-

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COURTHOUSE IN BRYAN - When the county offices were moved from Defiance to Bryan in 1841, court was held in a log building at the southeast corner of Main and Mulberry streets. Construction of the courthouse above began on Bryan’s public square in 1843, and the building was occupied in late 1845 or early 1846. Double doors behind the looming pillars opened into a wide hall that ran the building’s length with county offices lining each side. -1874 Williams County Atlas.

Continued: Formation Of Williams County, Ohio

fices of the several officers of the county and papers relating to the business of the county which should be left on file in any wise, with all the moveable property, be removed to the town of Bryan.” County officials were also “requested to repair to the town of Bryan at which place offices are prepared and convenient.” The commissioners then adjourned to Bryan, making the transfer of the county seat from Defiance complete.

BUILDING THE OLD COURTHOUSE

On July 9, 1842, the Williams County commissioners executed an agreement with John A. Bryan and Dr. William Trevitt to build a more substantial courthouse on the square in Bryan. This agreement clarified that Bryan and Trevitt were responsible for the shell of the building, with its inside finish to be completed by the county.

Construction of the new courthouse appears to have begun in 1843. The date the courthouse was first occupied is uncertain. Parts of the building were in use as early as 1845.

The two-story red brick building—the first brick structure erected within present Williams County boundaries—was 68 feet long, 50 feet wide and about 70 feet to the top of its cupola. Porches supported by four large, white wooden columns extended ten feet from the north and south ends of the courthouse. Shuttered windows allowed sunlight to fill its rooms.

An ornate cupola with a tin roof sat near the building’s north end. The cupola remained empty for more than 20 years. In 1872, the commissioners purchased a 630-pound bell for $315; the bell arrived in Bryan on Oct. 15,

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FORMER COURTHOUSE

- This two-story brick courthouse was erected on Bryan’s square in the 1840s and was razed in 1888. It replaced a log courthouse on Bryan’s North Main Street. (Goodspeed History of Williams County)

Continued: Formation Of Williams County, Ohio

OLD COURTHOUSE - This circa 1888 vintage image of the old Williams County courthouse was taken looking southeast from the intersection of Bryan’s High and Lynn streets. Note the horse-drawn vehicles at the hitching rail that surrounded the courthouse square. (Kevin Maynard collection)

1872 and was soon hoisted into place.

The bell was used to call local citizens to meetings in the courthouse and sometimes doubled as a fire alarm. The bell tolled for more than half an hour when the news of President James Garfield’s assassination reached Bryan in 1881. The bell gained local fame for its fine, clear tone and was said to have been carefully tuned to the key of A.

A gold-plated weather vane in the shape of a fish was mounted on top of the cupola. Local weather reports were unavailable in Bryan in the 1800s, so local citizens relied on the “fishy weathercock” to help them make their own forecasts. The Jan. 11, 1872 Bryan Democrat noted, “The fish on the courthouse spire has changed front, and we are now having some snug winter weather.” In February 1874, the newspaper said, “A turn of the vane on the courthouse spire on Monday froze things tight as wax.”

To enter the courthouse, visi-

tors passed between its looming porch columns and through doors at its north or south ends. These doors opened into a wide hall that ran the length of the courthouse with county offices located on each side.

Two winding staircases led to the courthouse’s second floor. Available information indicates the courtroom occupied most of the upper floor, although there were at least two rooms at the south end used as offices and jury rooms.

Ethel Gillis Dorsey provided one of best descriptions of the courthouse interior, saying she remembered “the musty, leathery, tobacco-laden air of the old courthouse and the long, resounding central corridor, stuffy offices and winding staircase at the south end ascending to the equally stuffy and awesome courtroom on the second floor.”

Since the courthouse was built before the age of electricity, candles were used to illuminate

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DAYS PAST - This vintage image of the 1840s Williams County courthouse was taken looking northeast from Bryan’s South Lynn Street. The two-story Union Block and three-story Long building in the background still stand on the north side of the square. (Kevin Maynard collection)

the building until the county purchased “Lunar oil lamps” in 1861 to supplement the candlelight. The Williams County Leader newspaper called the new lighting system “a decided improvement upon the tallow candle arrangement.”

The courthouse had no central heating system; a number of stoves that burned wood and later coal were used to heat the building. Silas Peoples recalled, “each office contained a large iron stove, and cord wood sawed in two was the fuel. A large wood box was among the official furniture of each room. Little boys would keep watch of these fuel boxes and when almost empty, would secure the job of filling the boxes for five or ten cents.”

The county maintained a large woodpile in the courtyard for many years which also supplied many other stoves, as this article from the Bryan Demo-

crat explains: “The quantity of firewood consumed in Bryan is immense. In no village of equal size within our acquaintance do they burn so much. Speculators would soon reap a fortune from the sale of this indispensable commodity were it not for the unbounded liberality of the taxpayers of the county who, with that self-sacrificing spirit of generosity that has characterized our people, have placed huge piles of a superior quality wood in the courtyard where the town citizens can help themselves whenever necessity requires. The wood disappears with a rapidity that is truly marvelous, but the taxpayers are equally energetic in their efforts to keep the supply up to the demand.”

The old courthouse lacked the advantages of indoor plumbing, with the restrooms consisting of a series of privies in the

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courtyard.

The Williams County courthouse was in excellent condition when a movement began in the late 1880s to replace it. Many reasons were given for replacing the building. Some felt that the offices were too small to comfortably transact business. The courthouse had only one fireproof vault and several small safes in which to store deeds, court records and other valuable documents. Many documents were stored in wooden boxes or without any protection due to lack of appropriate storage. The prosecuting attorney was renting an office outside the courthouse because of cramped conditions. The building’s interior walls were laid with soft brick and over time the mortar rotted.

Various accounts reported that an earthquake that Bryan experienced in September 1884 damaged the old courthouse so badly that it had to be replaced. Checking period local newspaper accounts of the earthquake fails to verify this report and of the many reasons cited for razing the building, earthquake damage was not mentioned. Certainly if the 1884 earthquake severely damaged the building, citizens would not have waited nearly four years to replace it.

Local historian Silas Peoples, who was very familiar with the building, wrote, “The old courthouse was well constructed. Every feature in its composition was made for endurance and lasting quality.”

The fact is, each of the concerns could have been addressed by repairing the building, enlarging it or constructing a courthouse annex as Williams County did in the 1980s. What spelled disaster for the beautiful old courthouse had little to do with the

building itself, but rather with the struggle over the location of the county seat that had been brewing since the 1840s.

THE COUNTY SEAT WARS

In December 1844, a petition requesting creation of Defiance County was presented to the Ohio Legislature. The General Assembly responded by passing an act that created Defiance County, with Defiance as its county seat, on March 4, 1845.

Defiance County took the two southernmost rows of townships from Williams County, leaving Bryan about three miles from the county’s southern border.

Fulton County was created on February 28, 1850, taking land from the east sides of Brady and Millcreek townships in Williams County.

The village of Montpelier was platted in 1845 near the center of present Williams County, fueling new debate over the county seat location.

On November 16, 1850, a meeting was held in Montpelier at which committees of three were appointed to circulate petitions for moving the county seat to Montpelier. The group adopted a resolution that stated, “that if there can be subscriptions obtained from the citizens of the county sufficient to defray the expenses of erecting suitable county buildings, and a majority of the citizens are in favor of said removal, there is no just reason why the seat of justice should not be removed to a more central point.”

In February 1851, petitions signed by hundreds of local residents for and against moving the county seat from Bryan to Montpelier were presented

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OLD WILLIAMS COUNTY COURTHOUSE - Construction of the old Williams County courthouse began on the square in Bryan in 1843, and the Greek-Ionic building was first occupied in late 1845 or early 1846. Bryan factions reasoned the only way to retain the county seat was to replace the old courthouse with a new structure that would last for decades. Demolition of the historic courthouse began on May 22, 1888 amidst lawsuits and allegations; it was replaced by the existing Williams County courthouse. -Williams County Public Library's Photographic Archives.

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WILLIAMS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

THOMAS E. KOCHERT - SHERIFF

JEFF LEHMAN - CHIEF DEPUTY

(419) 636-3151

The Williams County Sheriff’s office is proud to acknowledge the 200th Anniversary of our great County! We are very proud of our County’s heritage, and of being the “cornerstone of Ohio”. The Sheriff’s office is committed to keeping Williams County safe, and insuring that we maintain the constitutional freedoms we enjoy for another 200 years. It is our pleasure to assist the citizens in any way we can, and even more so to see generations of folks who call this corner home to grow, play, work, and live freely and safely. From our schools, to the civic clubs and organizations, and especially our strong agricultural heritage, Williams County is truly the Gemstone of Ohio! Thanks for celebrating with us, and God Bless Williams County!

to the Ohio Legislature along with a subscription list pledging $2,815.75 “to aid in the erection of county buildings at Montpelier and a contract for conveyance of five acres of land on which to erect them.”

These petitions were forwarded to the Legislature’s Standing Committee on the Judiciary, which reported in March 1851 that the county seat should remain at Bryan. The committee stated that the terms of the July 1, 1840, contract between the state locating committee and John Bryan and William Trevitt had been fulfilled, even though the county was forced to recover part of its money through a lawsuit. The report further noted that any bill to move the county seat would amount to an illegal ex post facto law.

This report temporarily calmed the waters although the November 12, 1853, Defiance Democrat reported, “Efforts are being made in Williams County for the removal of the county seat from Bryan to Montpelier.”

On November 12, 1857, the Republican Standard newspaper, published in Bryan, reported that a petition to move the county seat to Montpelier would be presented to the General Assembly at its next session. Two weeks later the Defiance Democrat mentioned the petition but added, “Before any act for removal would be operative, a vote of the people of the county would be necessary in approval.”

The conflict brewed through the winter, but on March 4, 1858, the Williams County Gazette reported, “The committee on counties has reported adversely to the removal of the county seat of this county.”

After this decision became public, the county seat question was seldom mentioned, but never forgotten.

Montpelier was a small com-

munity in the 1850s, but it grew rapidly after the Wabash Railroad reached the village in 1880, gaining the strength to become a formidable contender in a county seat site contest.

On September 24, 1880, the editor of the fledgling Montpelier Enterprise said an attractive feature of Montpelier “is the removal of the county seat here at no distant day. In setting up the plea for the removal of the county seat to this place, we do it not simply for the benefit of the inhabitants of Montpelier, but in behalf of the people of the county as a whole. When we take into respectful consideration the convenience it affords all residents of the county, it is fair to conclude that this place is where it should be as it is located in the geographical center.

By 1886 a group of Bryan Republicans decided that the only way to indefinitely postpone the county seat controversy was to get rid of the existing courthouse and build a larger building that would last for decades into the future.

To accomplish this, they needed two of the three county commissioners in favor of their plan. William A. Bratton Sr., an Edgerton Democrat who took office in the fall of 1885, favored Bryan.

In the fall of 1886, John Webb of Brady Township was the Republican nominee for county commissioner. Webb was frequently seen in Montpelier, and Bryan Republicans believed he would favor moving the county seat to Montpelier if elected.

Local Democrats nominated Walter I. Pepple of Springfield Township for commissioner. After the nomination, one of the Bryan Republicans asked Robert N. Patterson, editor of the Bryan Democrat, if Pepple was “friendly to

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Bryan.” The Republican said, “If he is and 100 Republican votes in Pulaski Township are necessary to elect him, I will see that he gets them.” One of the Democrats in attendance stated that if the Republicans did this, it would anger the Montpelier people and cause a lot of local animosity. The Republican replied that the county seat question had to be settled, and he was in favor of “taking the bull by the horns and forcing the fight.”

At the election, many Republicans voted for Democrat Walter Pepple, who was easily elected. The next day Montpelier Republicans came to Bryan “and the way they damned the Bryan Republicans for their treachery was something awful to hear.”

THE FINAL BATTLE

On Feb. 2, 1888 the Montpelier Enterprise reported that petitions were being circulated locally asking the Ohio Legislature to authorize the county commissioners to repair the old courthouse at a cost of up to $50,000. The Enterprise noted, “We believe every citizen of Williams County is aware that in the near future a new courthouse should be built and when the time comes to build it, the question of where it should be built should be determined by a majority of the citizens of the county. This scheme of repairing the old courthouse is a trick to secure the permanent locating and construction of a new courthouse at Bryan.”

On Feb. 10, 1888 a bill was introduced in the Ohio Senate to authorize the Williams County

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commissioners to issue $50,000 in bonds to “repair, improve or enlarge the present courthouse.” The bill also contained the language “or to build a new courthouse” that was not included in the petitions. The bill passed the Senate unanimously and was approved by the House of Representatives on March 8, 1888.

On March 28, 1888, the county commissioners, “after a careful consideration of the special law authorizing them to repair the old courthouse or build a new one, decided that the best interests of the county required the erection of a new building.” The vote was two to one with Arch Pressler from Superior Township casting the nay vote.

On April 3, 1888 the commissioners rented the former Mykrantz Academy building on the southwest corner of Lynn and Mulberry streets in Bryan as a temporary courthouse for $14.50 per month.

On May 19, 1888, the commissioners hired Sam Priest to tear down the old courthouse at a cost of $562.50. Priest was to complete the work by July 1, 1888.

On June 28, the courthouse building committee—Commissioners Pepple, Bratton and Pressler, Probate Judge George Rings, Clerk of Courts William A. Darby, Sheriff Miller Burgoyne and Albert M. Pratt—instructed Toledo architect E.O. Fallis to prepare plans for a new courthouse to cost an estimated $111,000.

On July 19 the Montpelier Enterprise said, “The county commissioners last week approved plans for a new courthouse at an estimated cost of $111,000. Steps will be taken immediately to prevent them from letting the contract and to keep them within the $50,000 provided by the act.”

In August an injunction was

filed to prevent the commissioners from spending more than $50,000 on a new courthouse.

On August 15, the injunction was dissolved. The day after the injunction was dissolved, the commissioners awarded a contract to Malone Brothers & Erhart of Toledo to build a new courthouse at a cost of $107,450.

The old courthouse has been gone for more than a century, but still holds a certain fascination for many Williams County residents. Ethel Gillis Dorsey perhaps best summed up these feelings when she said, “The old brick courthouse, with massive columns of white guarding its porches, a cupola at the north end from which the old bell proclaimed sessions of court or called the populace to fight fires, was a building of more architectural beauty than the big brick and stone structure which took its place, for it was a house of classic lines and simple dignity.”

THE EXISTING WILLIAMS COUNTY COURTHOUSE

Construction of the current Williams County courthouse began in August 1888, and the building was first occupied in June 1891. The 165-foot-tall, four-story courthouse was constructed using animal power and manual labor, with up to 70 men working on the structure at a time. The building cost approximately $185,000, including furnishings.

The Williams County courthouse is of Richardsonian Romanesque Revival architecture. It features multiple red tile roofed towers and intricately carved sandstone that was dressed on site during construction by Scottish stonecutters. These crafts-

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men awed local residents by working on narrow scaffolds 125 feet in the air carving the tower stonework.

The cornerstone on the courthouse’s northeast corner was laid by the Williams County Pioneers’ Association on April 30, 1889—the 100th anniversary of George Washington’s inauguration as first U.S. President. The cornerstone contains historical information, county officials’ names, names of officers and members of the county Pioneer’s Association, copies of local newspapers and other items.

The clock and bell in the courthouse tower still mark the passage of time as they have since they were installed in 1891. The Seth Thomas clock was originally powered by 250-pound weights, but

was electrified in 1944. The 3,160-pound bell strikes every hour.

On July 3, 1976, the Williams County Bicentennial Time Capsule was placed in a concrete vault in the courtyard north of the courthouse. The time capsule contains Williams County related items including books, photographs, high school yearbooks, organization histories and telephone books. The articles placed in the time capsule were vacuum sealed to ensure preservation until the time capsule is opened on July 4, 2076—America’s Tricentennial.

In 2014, the Bard Centennial Fountain on the northeast corner of the square was completed. The fountain was financed by the Bard Family Foundation

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CONSTRUCTION - This circa 1889 vintage image of the Williams County courthouse under construction was taken from Lynn Street looking east. Note the hitching rail that once surrounded the courthouse yard, the brick privy on the courthouse lawn, and the construction derricks. (WCPL Huffman Photographic Archives)

Continued: Formation Of Williams County, Ohio

FORMER COURTHOUSE DAYS - This circa 1905 photograph was taken looking northwest from the intersection of Main and Butler streets. Note the horse-drawn vehicles at the hitching rail that surrounded the courthouse, the bandstand that stood on the southeast corner of the public square, and the horse watering trough just below the bandstand. (Kevin Maynard collection)

CLOCK INSTALLATION - This photograph of the Williams County courthouse was taken looking northeast from West Butler Street before the tower clock was installed in August 1891. (WCPL Huffman Photographic Archives)

HISTORIC REFLECTION - The Williams County Courthouse was designed by Edward O. Fallis and built by Malone Brothers and Earhart—both from Toledo. It took three years to complete the massive 160-foot structure, which was first occupied in late June 1891. (Kevin Maynard collection)

Continued: Formation Of Williams County, Ohio

TIME CAPSULE - The Williams County Bicentennial Time Capsule was placed in a concrete vault north of the courthouse on July 3, 1976. The time capsule, to be opened on July 4, 2076, contains Williams County related items including books, photographs, high school yearbooks, organization histories and telephone books. (Kevin Maynard collection)

nightly through New Year’s Day.

CURRENT COURTHOUSE - The spectacular Williams County courthouse, completed in 1891, was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. (Williams Aerial) to mark Bard Manufacturing Company’s 100th anniversary. The fountain is made of brick and limestone to match the courthouse and has a 30-foot diameter pool. The fountain also honors Bryan’s legacy as “the Fountain City.” There were once hundreds of flowing artesian wells, or fountains as early settlers called them, in and around Bryan. These fountains provided a convenient, high-quality source of water for domestic and business purposes.

Holiday decorations on the courthouse square are an annual tradition that has become more dazzling over the years. Hundreds of volunteer hours are donated each year transforming the square into a winter wonderland. Bryan’s Santa Claus Parade on the day after Thanksgiving officially kicks off the season. The decorations are illuminated

The Bryan City Band has long played an active role in the community, entertaining untold numbers of people and performing at some of the most important local historical events. The band was founded in 1852, making it the nation’s second-oldest municipal band. The band still entertains area residents and visitors with free Wednesday evening concerts during summer months from the ConninHartman bandstand in the southwest corner of court park.

In 1973 the Williams County courthouse was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 1990, the Bryan Historic Homes Association mounted small plaques at each courthouse entrance to increase awareness of the structure’s historic significance.

Williams County Courthouse (Photo Collage)

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS - (Above) In the fall of 1950, Weaver Construction Company of Bryan was awarded a contract to install a new roof on the Williams County courthouse tower and new copper in the valleys and gutters of the building. This December 1950 photograph shows some of the earliest courthouse Christmas light strings and Weaver Construction Company’s scaffolding. (WCPL Huffman Photographic Archives).

HISTORIC REFLECTION - On New Year’s Day 1887, Albert Spangler drove a team of horses pulling six bobsleds to Bryan’s courthouse square and gave local boys and girls a sleigh ride. The Bryan Democrat reported the event was “enjoyed not more by the 300 little ones than by the hundreds of grown children who stood upon sidewalks and in doorways wishing they were again in short frocks and little breeches.” (WCPL Photographic Archives.)

HORSE DRAWN VEHICLES - This circa 1910 colorized photograph of the Williams County courthouse was taken from the southeast corner of the square looking northwest. Note the unpaved streets, the horse-drawn vehicles hitched to the hitching rail that surrounded the courthouse, and the bandstand that stood on the southeast corner of the public square. (Kevin Maynard collection)

(Below) - A winter scene courtesy of Williams Aerial).

Tidbit - On Feb. 2, 1824, the Ohio Legislature organized Williams County, authorizing the creation of its own county government.

Tidbit - In 1888 the old Williams County courthouse was torn down and construction of the existing brick and stone edifice was started. It took nearly three years and $185,000 to complete, being first occupied in July 1891.

HOW THEN CAN I BE SAVED!?

Romans 10:9

“If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord’, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

AMARA KAY WRIGHT

JONATHAN F. CRONIN

NEVAEH TIMBROOK OWEN ROTH

Blakeslee A “Small Town Survivor”

By: Kevin Maynard Local Historian

Blakeslee can trace its beginning to the post office by that name established on May 4, 1880, at the store of John N. Chilcote. Mr. Chilcote is believed to have started a store at or near the present site of Blakeslee to sell goods to railroad workers and area residents. The post office was named after long-time Bryan attorney Schuyler E. Blakeslee.

Schuyler Blakeslee was born near Avon Springs, N.Y., Sept. 7, 1812, and when he was a child his family moved to Geauga County, Ohio, where his father farmed. He graduated from Western Reserve College and, when he was 21 he began to study law with Seabury Ford, who later was elected governor of Ohio.

After receiving his law degree, Mr. Blakeslee moved in 1844 to Bryan and opened a law office. Blakeslee was an excellent attorney and became one of the prominent lawyers not only of Williams County, but of northwestern Ohio. He was elected state representative three times—in 1856, 1869 and 1871—and was an outspoken opponent of slavery. He

was also elected Williams County prosecuting attorney in 1874. The 1882 Williams County history book says of him, “The county has no better citizen.”

Mr. Blakeslee died Feb. 7, 1894, one of the most highly regarded men in our county’s history.

Blakeslee was founded by John Boman. Mr. Boman was born in Wayne County, Ohio, on March 28, 1839. His early life was spent on the family farm, and he acquired a fair education. He moved to Williams County in 1853 and settled on the land that later became Blakeslee. Mr. Boman served in the Third Ohio Cavalry during the Civil War from September 1861 until December 1864, taking part in many battles. After the war, he concentrated on farming. He died of heart disease at his home in Blakeslee on May 9, 1896.

In 1880 the Detroit, Butler & St. Louis Railroad (later known as the Wabash and today as the Norfolk Southern) was surveyed through John Boman’s farm, bypassing Edon. Since the closest towns of any size along the proposed railroad were Montpelier and Butler, Indiana, Mr. Boman decided

BLAKESLEE 1894 - The Village of Blakeslee was incorporated. On November 8, 1880, John Boman had the village of Blakeslee surveyed where the proposed Detroit, Butler & St. Louis (later known as the Wabash and today as Norfolk Southern) Railroad crossed his Florence Township farm. The new town grew, and on September 3, 1894, a petition signed by 51 Blakeslee residents was presented to the Williams County Commissioners requesting incorporation of the village. The commissioners granted the request on November 7, 1894, allowing Blakeslee citizens to create a village government, levy taxes and enact village ordinances. This circa 1910 photograph from the Kevin Maynard collection shows the west side of Blakeslee’s Washington Street (Ohio Route 34) looking north toward the railroad.

his land would be a good location for a new village. On Nov. 8, 1880, he had part of his farm surveyed into 56 village lots and named the new town Blakeslee, the same name as the post office in Chilcote’s store. Ten days later Konrad Sachar surveyed 33 lots on his farm on the

east side of Washington Street, north of the proposed railroad tracks, making the first addition to the new town.

The 1882 county history states that when Blakeslee was surveyed, “the only improvements were one log house and a grocery, built for the railroad company.”

It didn’t take long for the town to start growing. Within about a year the town had a railroad depot, meat market, hotel, several dry goods and grocery stores, hardware store, blacksmith shop, two saloons and ten houses. Blakeslee contin-

Continued:

Blakeslee A “Small Town Survivor”

ued to grow through the 1880s; John Boman platted an addition of 18 lots on the east side of Washington Street south of the tracks in December 1881, and Eli Swigart platted two other additions to the village, with a total of 49 new lots, in 1886 and 1887.

On Sept. 3, 1894, a petition signed by 51 Blakeslee residents was presented to the Williams County Commissioners asking to incorporate the town. The commissioners granted the request on Nov. 7, 1894, allowing Blakeslee’s citizens to create a village government as well as levy taxes and enact village ordinances.

In 1887 a two-story brick school was built on the west side of Madison Street south of Dearborn Street; prior to this the local children attended classes in store buildings. The brick school was used until the 1930s.

There were at least two churches in Blakeslee before St. Joseph’s

Catholic Church. The Blakeslee Disciples of Christ built a church at the south end of town in 1886, and in 1887 the Blakeslee Christian Union Church was built on Madison Street. This church soon became a United Brethren church and many years later was moved west of town and used as a garage before being destroyed in 1992.

The first St. Joseph’s Catholic Church was a wooden structure built a half-mile north of Blakeslee in 1865. This building was burned down by Richmond Bennett, known as “Bennett the Desperado,” in 1881. A brick church was built on the same site in 1883, but when this church became unsafe, it was dismantled and the brick used in constructing the present St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Blakeslee in 1906-1907. In 1913 the brick parsonage was built, and in 1920 the sisters’ house and

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FIRST SCHOOL - Ground was broken for Blakeslee’s first schoolhouse. In 1887, this two-story brick school was built on the west side of Madison Street south of Dearborn Street in Blakeslee; prior to this, local schoolchildren attended classes in store buildings. The brick school building was used until the 1930s, and was sold to Herbert Azar in 1943 for $260. The building was razed in 1966. This vintage image of the Blakeslee school is from the Williams County Public Library Huffman Photographic Archives

Continued:

Blakeslee A “Small Town Survivor”

the first St. Joseph’s parochial school—a wooden building—were constructed. In 1959 the nuns’ house was moved and four-room brick school with basement and cafeteria were erected.

In 1886 the Blakeslee Grain and Elevator Company was incorporated with a capital of $5,000. That same year they erected an elevator which is believed to have burned in 1916. Another elevator was built in 1924 with local farmers donating labor and materials. It was later sold to the Edon Farmers Cooperative and was razed in 2017.

Many organizations have been established in Blakeslee over the years. A Knights of Pythias Lodge was instituted Aug. 19, 1891, with 37 members; it lasted until about 1934 when it combined with the Edgerton lodge and sold its building. A Pythian Sisters Lodge for the ladies was operated in conjunction with the K. of P. Lodge. A Modern

Woodmen Lodge lasted until sometime in the 1930s. The Knights of Columbus began in 1954 and remains very active to this day.

For about 55 years, the Wabash Railroad crossing on Ohio 34 was a grade or street level crossing. A number of train-automobile accidents occurred beginning in 1935, and the citizens started working to improve safety at the crossing. In the summer of 1937 the Federal Bureau of Public Works approved construction of the present underpass. This $75,000 project was started in 1938 and completed in October 1939.

Blakeslee’s first fire department was a bucket brigade. After a disastrous fire hit the town in 1936, a Darley centrifugal pump was purchased and mounted on the front of a Ford pickup truck; the fire department was reorganized with 15 members and M.C. Studer as fire chief. In 1948, Edon,

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BLAKESLEE 1913

1913, shows the east side of Blakeslee’s Washington Street, looking north toward the former Wabash (now known as Norfolk Southern) Railroad. The Wabash Railroad crossing was a grade level crossing until the underpass was completed in 1939. On the right is the J.H. Stumpf & Son General Merchandise store. The second floor of the building to the left (north) of Stumpf’s store was occupied by the Knights of Pythias Lodge. The fourth building from the right housed a meat market. In the distance, at far left in the photograph, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church is visible. This vintage image is from the Kevin Maynard collection.

- This vintage picture postcard, postmarked

Continued: Blakeslee A “Small Town Survivor”

Blakeslee and Florence Township joined forces, with the township owning the equipment and the villages providing manpower and storage for the equipment. Two fire trucks were purchased—one housed at Blakeslee and the other at Edon. In 1967 the township purchased two new fire trucks and Blakeslee purchased the old engine.

In 1970, M.C. Studer wrote a history of Blakeslee. In it he noted: “Doctor Reily and Doctor Hogue were practicing medicine in the year 1893 with Doctor Hughes starting a few years later.

“The big Matson’s sawmill, located southwest of the present elevator, was in business as early as 1895 and provided employment for mill workers and a large number of timber cutters and log haulers. There was a large acreage of big standing timber in the surrounding countryside. The sawed timber was shipped by rail to markets in the east. The

Somerlott mill, northeast of the present underpass, also sawed logs and made flour and ground feed for livestock feeding. The Nichol’s mill, located east of this mill and south of the tracks, also sawed lumber and ground livestock feed.

“There were three blacksmith shops busy keeping the horses shod and doing the repair work required to keep equipment in top shape.

“Frank Snyder was the first barber. He was followed by Joseph Lash and Isadore Siebenaler. Joseph Mohre started the barber shop at its present location in 1959.

“The Mutual Telephone Company was started in 1912 with the central office in the Pythian Sisters’ building. Miss Sarah Thiel was chief operator.

“The canning factory was started in 1933 by Essi and Kanan. They sold the cannery to Claude Buck who later sold to Clarence

Continued: Blakeslee A “Small Town Survivor”

Siebenaler. The present owners are Mr. and Mrs. Des Bundy, doing business as Bundy Foods, Inc.

“Nichols Brothers owned and operated a cement block and tile factory on North Madison Street.

“M.C. Huard bought and shipped livestock. The railroad had stock yards and loading chutes west of the elevator. Mr. Huard also owned and operated a dry goods and grocery store, and for a number of years owned the livery barn. Salesmen came in on the trains and hired teams and buggies to drive to surrounding towns to call on their customers.”

Over the years Blakeslee has had sawmills, a gristmill, lumber yard, photographer, doctors, drug store, furniture store, millinery store, glove factory, canning factory, barber shop, beauty shop, general stores, grocery stores, hardware stores, telephone company office, stock yard, livery stable, bicycle

shop, gas station, cement block and tile factory, cabinet shop, radio and television shop, auto body shop, bank, and saloons and restaurants.

On the Wabash depot, the village’s name was spelled “Blakesley.” M.C. Studer’s daughter, Myra Koop, explained why the railroad deliberately misspelled the town’s name. “My father was a railroad telegraph operator in the 1920s before the Depression hit and he lost that job. The reason for the spelling ‘Blakesley’ was common conversation at our house. Because communication along the railroad was by telegraph—and thus a code of dots and dashes—the ‘ee’ ending had to be changed to one ‘e’ and its identical sound, but different letter ‘y’ to distinguish the two letters apart.”

Two active businesses closely identified with Blakeslee today are Sam’s Place restaurant and Thiel Construction. Sam’s Place can

CONTINUED ON PAGE 65

Continued: Blakeslee A “Small Town Survivor”

trace its beginning to the arrival of Sam Mohre from Syria in 1906. He worked on the railroad and for farmers before buying Charles Binckley’s pool room in 1922. The pool room was located on the east side of Washington Street south of the railroad. This was during prohibition and no alcohol could be sold. When the underpass was built, Mohre no longer had adequate parking space, so he erected the present bar in 1939 at the southwest corner of Washington and Jackson streets; the original building has been enlarged several times. Upon Sam’s death in 1973, his son Mose officially took over management of the restaurant. It has remained a family enterprise, with the fourth generation of Mohres now working there.

Thiel Construction began as a partnership between Marvin Thiel and Charlie Phillips in the late 1950s. Mr. Thiel became the sole proprietor in 1961, operating out of his home at County Roads 4 and H, with a yard

one-half mile south of his home. Marvin’s brother Lee joined the business in 1974 and Thiel Construction was incorporated the following year. In 1977 the company purchased a former hardware store and gas station at 313 Washington St. owned by Herb Azar and relocated their offices from Marvin’s home. The same year they purchased the old canning factory at the northwest corner of Jackson and Washington streets, remodeled the building, and started Thiel Supply, a retail lumber yard and supply center. In 1980 the company converted a building south of Sam’s Place into a roofing and siding warehouse and three years later built a warehouse for the storage of insulation and other roofing materials.

Blakeslee today is a small but thriving village—one which has survived the 20th century trend away from small towns—and continues to hold its own through the hard work and cooperation of its citizens and elected officials.

“The mission of St. Patrick Parish is to build up the Church by worshipping the Father, proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus, and, guided by the Spirit, loving and serving others as we share our gifts.”

Village Of Blakeslee

- Mayor Eric Jenkins -

Located in the Southwest corner of Williams County is a 144 year old treasure: Blakeslee, Ohio. While it only contains about 47 homes and 100 residents, it’s nickname “The Half Mile of Smile” couldn’t be more fitting.

While Blakeslee’s demeanor seems to be quiet and humble, it history is rich with generations of merchants and entrepreneurs that founded the village years ago.

Blakeslee’s welcoming spirit dates back to 1880 with the establishment of the Village in honor of S.E. Blakeslee, an eminent attorney from Bryan. Not long after the first houses were erected, the Village became a hub for sales and business.

In its first two years several businesses were established including grocery stores, a hotel, meat market, blacksmith shops, funeral homes, barber shops and saloons. After allowing the railroad access to build through Blakeslee for a whopping $1,000, the rest was history. Crowds came from all over the County and even neighboring states to experience Blakeslee’s hospitality and great service.

While the Village is presently mostly residential and farmland, there are businesses in Blakeslee still owned and operated by some of the founding families that appear in early history. Many families living in the Village today can trace their heritage in Blakeslee back generations.

Sam’s Place, Blakeslee’s infamous tavern which opened in 1922 is presently owned and operated by the third generation of the Mohre family. Mohre Electronics which offers Motorola radios and a service department, is operated by a second generation of the Charlie Mohre Family. The home offices of Thiel Construction and Thiel Supply Center have been in business over sixty years and are run by the second generation of the Marvin Thiel Family. Carpet Unlimited and Furniture is now run by a second generation of the Leo Muehlfeld Family.

Two of the most historic establishments in the Village are the St. Joseph Catholic Church (current location since 1907) and the post office that has been in service since 1880.

The Village wants to congratulate the County and County Commissioners as they celebrate their 200th anniversary. Thank you for keeping our County great!

City Of Bryan, Ohio - The “Fountain City”

By: Kevin Maynard LOCAL HISTORIAN

Bryan was surveyed on July 14, 1840, for John A. Bryan of Columbus. The original town plat contained 182 lots and a public square, the present courthouse square.

John Alexander Bryan was born April 13, 1794, at New Marlboro, Mass. Although little is known of his early life, he appar-

ently received a good education. When he was a young man, John Bryan moved to Olean, N.Y., and became an attorney. He quickly became involved in politics and served as district attorney of Cattaraugus County several times and was later elected to the New York Legislature. About 1829, John Bryan moved to Columbus, Ohio, and started a Democratic newspaper; he sold this business

in 1833 when he was elected state auditor of Ohio.

About this same time Mr. Bryan became a land agent—buying unimproved Ohio land for companies such as the American Land Company of New York and selling it to settlers. On August 15, 1844, President John Tyler appointed him Charge d’ Affaires to the Republic of Peru for one year. In 1846 he was among two dozen

men considered to be the head of the new Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., but lacked the necessary scientific background.

In 1850 Mr. Bryan moved to Wisconsin, where he edited the Milwaukee Commercial newspaper for three years and then served as a U.S. land agent. He died in Menasha, Wis., on May

CONTINUED ON PAGE 68

Monday - Thursday ....7:00 am - 9:00 pm

Friday & Saturday .......7:00 am - 10:00 pm

Sunday .......................8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Tuesday - Thursday .....6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Friday & Saturday .......6:30 pm - 9:30 pm

Continued: Bryan, Ohio - The “Fountain City”

24, 1864.

Why is Bryan located where it is? Until 1845, Williams County included two additional rows of townships on its south end that are now part of Defiance County. The county seat was located at Defiance, in the extreme southeast corner of the county. Williams County citizens voted in the fall of 1839 to have the county seat location reviewed and in 1840 the state sent a committee of three men to look at possible locations.

John Bryan and Dr. William Trevitt offered to give the county a public square, build a temporary courthouse, and construct public buildings costing at least $8,500 if the county seat was moved to the land they owned. The proposed site was near the center of the old, large Williams County, so their offer was accepted, after which the town was surveyed.

A log courthouse was built in late 1840 or early 1841 southeast of the intersection of Main and Mulberry streets. By June 1842 a log jail had been built on the west side of the 200 block of North Lynn Street. A new brick courthouse was finished on the courthouse square by late 1845 or early 1846 and the log courthouse torn down with the material used to build two houses on the east side of town.

Daniel Wyatt built the first house in Bryan, a log cabin on the south side of the courthouse square. William Yates is said to have been the first merchant, opening a dry goods store on the east side of the square in 1841. Daniel Langel is said to have arrived in September 1841 and built the Mansion House hotel, on the east side of the square as well. Bryan has always been famous for its water. In fact, there

BRYAN CITY BAND - The Bryan City Band has long played an active role in the community, entertaining untold numbers of people and performing at some of the most important local historical events. The band was founded in 1852, making it the second-oldest continuous municipal band in the nation. Over the years the band has appeared under many different names; this group, known as the North Western Silver Cornet Band, contained many of early Bryan’s prominent citizens. The members are all identified by last name except Medary Patterson (the boy holding the cymbals), the son of Robert N. Patterson, editor of the weekly Bryan Democrat newspaper. This circa 1875 photograph was taken by William Lockhart, one of the Fountain City’s early professional photographers, after the band was outfitted in new uniforms made by a Bryan tailor. (WCPL Huffman Photographic Archives)

were once so many flowing artesian wells in town that it became known as the “Fountain City” soon after it was founded.

Bryanites first obtained their drinking water from holes or reservoirs dug in the ground. Daniel Wyatt started digging a well behind his log cabin on the south side of the courthouse square several months after the town was surveyed. He reached hardpan late in the evening and decided to quit digging until the next day. When he returned in the morning, Mr. Wyatt discovered that water had burst up through the hard pan and was running out on the ground—Bryan’s first artesian well.

The number of fountains grew with the village until there were hundreds of flowing wells in Bryan. Nearly every household had

a fountain for its convenience and many used the cool water to refrigerate food. Many people considered the artesian wells a source of wonder and believed the fountain water helped ward off illness. In fact, at the turn of the century Bryan had a mineral bath house on South Main Street for the cure of rheumatism and other ailments, and in 1906 the Bryan Mineral Water Company was selling 1,500 cases per week of “Spark” mineral water bottled from a well at the Bryan Novelty Company. The Halm Brewing Company also used Bryan’s fountain water in the brewing of its fine lager beer until Williams County was voted dry in 1908.

Bryan’s growth was slow but steady in its earliest years and by 1849 the citizens decided the

town had grown enough to warrant a municipal government.

On March 7, 1849, the village of Bryan was incorporated by an act of the Ohio Legislature and at the first election, held on June 15, 1849, Charles Case was elected mayor; John Will, recorder; and Jacob Youse, William Yates, Edward Foster, Thomas Serrels and Jacob Over, trustees (or councilmen). The trustees appointed Benjamin Schmachtenberger treasurer and John K. Morrow, marshal.

An 1853 newspaper account says: “Bryan is the county seat, and is a flourishing village of about 400 or 500 inhabitants with five stores, two taverns, one grocery, an elegant courthouse, one sawmill and all kinds of mechanics necessary to supply the surrounding country.”

Bryan grew slowly until 1855

when the Michigan Southern & Northern Indiana Railroad was built to the town from Toledo. Being the county seat and having rail facilities, Bryan quickly became the largest town in Williams County, overtaking West Unity and the older villages of Williams Center and Pulaski. The railroad opened markets for farm products and manufactured goods and allowed Bryan merchants to receive goods at lower transportation costs, so they were able to undercut merchants from other towns not on the railroad.

By 1858, Bryan had grown into a thriving little town. In addition to numerous businesses around the square, the village contained three sawmills, three hotels, a wood house and freight depot at the railroad, iron foundry, gristmill, brick courthouse, the William County fairgrounds, a chair

Cornerstone’s Flooring Outlet

RECORD ACHIEVED - The North American railroad speed record of 183.85 mph was set on the New York Central (today Norfolk Southern) tracks through Williams County. In 1966, the New York Central Railroad proposed abandoning its traditional long-haul rail passenger service and replacing it with high-speed shuttle service between major metropolitan hubs 200 miles or less apart. The tests were conducted using the M-497 passenger railcar equipped with an aerodynamic front to reduce wind resistance and two turbojet engines to propel the car. During the M-497’s second run on July 23, 1966, the North American rail speed record of 183.85 miles per hour was established. The previous U.S. rail speed record was 127 miles per hour, set in 1901 near Lima, Ohio. Engineer Donald Wetzel recalled that the railcar reached a speed of 197 miles per hour during the second run, but he was instructed to slow down by New York Central president Alfred Perlman, who sat in the fireman’s seat next to him. The M-497 fell just short of the world rail speed record at that time of 205.6 miles per hour. The New York Central’s high-speed shuttle plans were scrapped following its 1968 merger with the Pennsylvania Railroad, despite the successful demonstration in Williams County. This vintage image of the M-497 is from the Donald Wetzel collection.

factory, brick schoolhouse, Methodist church, saleratus factory, woolen mill, and George Wise’s brewery.

The first schoolhouse in Bryan was a log building on the south side of the square. On November 1, 1843, the school directors bought a lot on the northwest corner of Beech and Butler streets and had a wooden frame schoolhouse erected. This school was used until 1858 when the twostory brick Butler Street schoolhouse was built on the same site.

In 1862 C. W. Mykrantz came to Bryan to serve as the principal

of schools. In 1865-66 he opened a private normal college on the east side of the square. Here, aspiring teachers received higher education in spelling, arithmetic, writing and geography to prepare them for their careers. Enrollment grew and in 1867 he built a two-story brick college building on the southwest corner of Lynn and Mulberry streets.

By 1869 the Butler Street school had become overcrowded and the school board bought the Mykrantz Academy building

Global Strength. Hometown Values.

We create opportunities for people who make products that fasten the framework in our communities. Driving connections that build homes, protect families, and strengthen neighborhoods.

Continued: Bryan, Ohio - The “Fountain City” for $5,000. Mr. Mykrantz moved his normal college into the Long building on the north side of the square and operated it there for a number of years, finally moving to Ashland, Ohio, in 1883.

As Bryan continued to grow, more classrooms were needed. Two-story brick schoolhouses were built at the northwest corner of Cherry and Mulberry streets in 1874 and at the southeast corner of Walnut and Perry streets in 1880.

By the early 1880s the need for a high school was realized by Bryan citizens. In 1885 the Park school was built on the west side of South Portland Street; it housed elementary students on the first floor and high school on the second floor; the Mykrantz building was abandoned after the Park school opened.

In 1903 a new high school building was erected on the west side of Beech Street, between High and Butler streets. In 1917 the Lincoln school was built, and the South school and Cherry Street school were abandoned.

Other school buildings have been erected over the years. The auditorium (now known as the Bryan Arts and Education Center) was built about the same time as the Lincoln school. The former Bryan High School and Washington school were constructed in the 1950s. The Pulaski school was consolidated with Bryan in 1967. The Bryan Middle School on Center Street opened in 1987. In 2015 construction began on a 150,000-square-foot Grade 6 to 12 school building at 1350 Fountain

CONTINUED ON PAGE 74

FIRST PLANE

biplane on the Woodrow Wilson aero-post airmail route landed at Bryan. One of only three stops on the airmail route between New York and Chicago, Bryan’s U.S. Airmail field, known as Willett Field on the northeast corner of Main and Foster streets, began operations on September 6, 1918, with the arrival of two test flights. In December 1918, a 50- x 60-foot concrete block hangar and machine shop were completed at Willett Field. An Ohio Historical Marker commemorating Bryan’s role in the U.S. Airmail service was dedicated near the former Willett Field airstrip and hangar on November 4, 2006. Local efforts to preserve the vintage airmail hangar—the first and last building of its kind—for use as a local museum and welcome center were unsuccessful, and the historic structure was razed in October 1999. This vintage image of a U.S. Airmail biplane in front of the Willett Field hangar is from the WCPL Huffman Photographic Archives.

- The first

Continued: Bryan, Ohio - The “Fountain City”

Grove Drive. The project included renovating the 1987 Bryan Middle School to house grades pre-K to five and demolishing the Lincoln and Washington elementary schools and the high school.

On June 14, 1856, the Williams County Agricultural Society was organized in the old courthouse on the square. That fall on October 7-8, 1856, the first Williams County fair was held around the courthouse square. According to the late Paul Van Gundy, “Examples of farm produce, domestic arts and manufactured articles were displayed inside the courthouse.

The livestock was tied to the fence around the court park. The races were held on the streets around the court park, with twice around for a heat and three heats for a complete race.” The fair was a success and the following year the agricultural society constructed a fairground on the south side of East High Street. Fairs were held at this location until 1866, when 20 acres at the northeast corner of Townline Road and Paige Street were leased for a fairground. The Williams County fair was held annually at this location from 1866 to 1886. In 1886 the first fair was held in Montpelier, where it has been held ever since.

The late 1880s were years of dramatic change in Bryan—what could probably be considered the beginnings of modern Bryan. First came the oil and gas boom of 1887, when several good oil and gas wells were drilled in Bryan. Gas was soon piped to homes and businesses where it was used for lighting, heat and to power machinery. People didn’t practice conservation and soon the wells gave out. By 1893 the oil and gas boom was over.

Another big event of 1887 was the construction of the Cincinnati, Jackson & Mackinaw Railroad

through Bryan. This gave Bryan two railroads and had a strong positive impact on its economy.

In 1888 the old Williams County courthouse was torn down and construction of the existing brick and stone edifice was started. It took nearly three years and $185,000 to complete, being first occupied in June 1891.

In 1889, electric lights first appeared in Bryan when a private electric company built a generating plant on North Walnut Street near the railroad. This was followed in 1892 by the construction of a municipal waterworks system, the first “city water” in Williams County. In 1896, frustrated with the service and the rates provided by the private electric utility, Bryan citizens started their own electric system. The rates and service provided by these combined utilities are second to none in northwest Ohio today.

In 1905 the Toledo & Indiana Railway, an electric railroad, was built from Toledo to Bryan. The railroad did a good business for many years, but improved roads and competition from automobiles and trucks gradually took its toll on the T. & I., and in October 1939 it ceased operating.

The 20th century has found Bryan becoming more industrialized and urbanized. Many companies still operating today—Spangler Candy, Ohio Art and Bard Manufacturing—can trace their histories to the first third of the 1900s.

Bryan is the only city in Williams County; it reached the requisite population, 5,000 people, needed to become a city in 1940, its centennial year. It has a strong, diverse economy and excellent community cooperation—attributes which helped it get listed as one of America’s top 100 small towns in 1993.

City Of Bryan, Ohio

- Mayor Carrie Schlade -

As Mayor of Bryan, on behalf of our community, we wish Williams County continued success as we celebrate 200 years together.

Bryan, known as the Fountain City, is proud to be the county seat of Williams County. While Bryan is only 5.56 square miles of Williams County’s total 422 square miles, we continue to serve as the hub of activity centered around the Williams County Courthouse housed on our historic downtown square.

With a strong school system, a revitalized downtown shopping and entertainment district, and an extensive park system, a Tree City USA community Bryan continues to contribute to the vitality of Williams County.

Bryan’s manufacturers produce a diversity of items. However, best known 100-plus-year companies are Dum Dum lollipops, Saf-T-Pops, and Marshmallow Circus Peanuts made by Spangler Candy Company (the largest producer of candy canes in the world). The Etch A Sketch, now manufactured in China, was developed by the Ohio Art Company, who has now built a reputation as one of the country’s premier metal lithographers.

Bard Manufacturing is an international leader in the commercial heating and cooling industry. Allied Moulded Products, the premier manufacturer of electrical enclosures, has been located in Bryan for 60 years. The city is also home to Titan Tire Corporation, makers of Goodyear- and Titan-brand off-road tires. Bryan is served by Amtrak’s Lake Shore Limited service at an unmanned station along the former New York Central line. Norfolk Southern Railway operates the line for high-volume freight service passing through Bryan between the east and Chicago.

Our business community is strong and poised for growth. With two industrial parks, a community-owned utility, and an active county economic development agency we continue to partner with county agencies to maintain measured growth for the betterment of Williams County. Happy 200th Williams County! Thank you for allowing me to serve on the committee to represent Bryan in celebrating your history and exciting future.

Local Historic Tidbit

CREATION OF WILLIAMS COUNTY

On February 12, 1820, the Ohio Legislature adopted an act creating 14 new counties in the northwestern part of the state out of territory the United States acquired from Native Americans. The fourteenth new county was named Williams County in honor of Revolutionary War hero David Williams, one of three captors of British spy Major John Andre.

What Do You Enjoy About Williams County?

Bryan High School Students

Historic Local Tidbit

CONDITION OF BRYAN, OHIO SOIL

Descriptions of early Bryan indicate that the town site was little more than a swamp. Drainage was very poor, and the courthouse square was especially low and marshy. It is claimed that there was once a pond on the square where fish were caught.

RYAN SPIESS

KYAH DAVIS

LANDON BASSETT

XANDER FACKLER

DOM MALANGA

JAILYNN T BEAM

GILLIAN DAVIES

AVERY BROWN

HUNTER MUEHLFELD

TEAGHAN BLAD

Ohio Art & Allcan are proud to be members of this community for more than 115 years. C o n gra t ulati ons o n 2 0 0 y e a rs W i llia ms C o u n t y!

E x cellence in M e t al P ack ag ing

Edgerton Owes Its Beginnings To The Railroad

By: Kevin Maynard LOCAL HISTORIAN

On April 22, 1854, Edgerton was surveyed where the proposed Michigan Southern & Northern Indiana (today known Norfolk Southern) Railroad crossed the St. Joseph River in St. Joseph Township. The original plat consisted of 135 lots, all on the north side of the tracks, with a depot grounds on the south side.

The village was laid out by

John H. Sargent, who at the time lived in Toledo and was apparently working for the railroad company as a civil engineer. He is said to have later served as city engineer for the City of Cleveland, Ohio. Mr. Sargent also helped found Stryker in Williams County and Wauseon in Fulton County.

The village was named after Alfred Peleg Edgerton. Mr. Edgerton was born at Plattsburg in Clinton County, N.Y., on January 11,

1813. His father, Bela Edgerton, was an attorney who served in the New York legislature from 182628, exposing Alfred to politics at an early age.

Little is known of his education except that he graduated from the

academy at Plattsburg. In 1833 he became the editor of a newspaper in Clinton County and that fall moved to New York City, “where he engaged in com-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 83

Tues. 9:00 am – 2 pm

Weds. 9:00 am – 2 pm

Thurs. & Fri. 7 am – 8 pm

Saturday 7 am – 2 pm

FIRST RAILROAD - Williams County’s first railroad was the Michigan Southern & Northern Indiana Railroad. The Michigan Southern & Northern Indiana Railroad reached Stryker in 1854 and was completed through Bryan and Edgerton the following year. In 1869 the Michigan Southern and Northern Indiana Railroad became the Lake Shore and Michigan Southern. Later name changes included the New York Central (1913), Penn Central (1968), Conrail (1976), and Norfolk Southern (1999). In 1870 the Lake Shore and Michigan Southern constructed this wooden frame depot north of the tracks near the foot of Oak Street in Edgerton. The June 23, 1870 issue of the Bryan Press newspaper reported, “The Edgerton people are rejoicing over the prospect of a new passenger depot. It is to be 120 feet long and 27 feet wide and will cost $5,000. The citizens of the place have voted to contribute $1,000 toward building it.” The Hotel Mortland, which stood on the northeast corner of Indiana and Oak streets, is visible on the left. This vintage image is from the Williams County Public Library Huffman Photographic Archives.

mercial pursuits.”

He moved to Ohio in the spring of 1837 to serve as a land agent for Hicks & Company and the American Land Company, which both owned large amounts of land in the area which they wanted to sell to settlers. He built a house and land office in Hicksville—now in Defiance County—and lived there many years.

In 1845 he was elected to the Ohio Senate. After this he served two terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. He served in numerous public positions throughout his life and died at his home in Hicksville on May 14, 1897.

Why was Edgerton located where it is? In the 1850s, roads were very bad, not like those of today. In places where roads had been cut out of the dense forest in Williams County, they were little more than wagon trails of dirt; they were not graveled or ditched.

Much of the time they were seas of mud, making travel difficult if not almost impossible. Roads were not plowed in the winter, with large drifts sometimes blocking the way. Of course, the automobile did not yet exist, so travel by horsepower or on foot was the common way of getting from one place to another.

Compared with this, travel by railroad was much faster and easier. A railroad also provided a convenient way to get goods to a town and also to ship farm products or manufactured goods to markets in larger cities.

What Mr. Sargent and others privy to a proposed railroad’s route would often do was purchase land along the route about every 10 miles and survey town lots next to the railroad. This made the new town just far enough away from other towns in those days of dif-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 85

EARLY BASEBALL - Williams County residents have enjoyed playing and watching baseball games since the 1860s. Nearly every town and country crossroads fielded a team to participate in the national pastime. This circa 1895 vintage image from the Kevin Maynard collection shows the Edgerton Earths baseball team. Written in ink on the photograph is: “This was taken the day Doc throwed over the barn at Stryker,” and also “All married but one. Guess which one.” Team members are identified as front row (left to right): H.A. VanDusen, Lloyd Strausborger and Lon Bechtol. Middle row: Hiram Long, Arthur Mortland and Victor Simon. Back row: Ernest Fritz, Charles Donaldson, Will Newman, Art Wanamaker, Will Snyder and Claude Simon.

Northwest Ohio Educational Service Center Would Like to Congratulate Williams County on Over 200 Years of Rich History, Including Excellent Educational Opportunities Afforded to All Area Students!

NwOESC proudly shapes the educational landscape across Defiance, Fulton, Henry, and Williams Counties. In collaboration with 23 public school districts and the Four County Career Center, NwOESC focuses on professional development, curriculum, gifted, and special education through a shared services model for effectiveness and efficiency. With over 420 staff - the majority deployed out to member districts - NwOESC works to carry out its mission and vision of quality services and valued partnerships.

Archbold Area Local

Ayersville Local

Bryan City

Central Local

Defiance City

Edgerton Local

Edon Northwest Local

Evergreen Local

Fayette Local

Hicksville Exempted

Holgate Local

Liberty Center Local

Millcreek-West Unity Local

Montpelier Exempted

Napoleon Area City

Northeastern Local

North Central Local

Patrick Henry Local

Pettisville Local

Pike-Delta-York Local

Stryker Local

Swanton Local

Wauseon Exempted

Four County Career Center

ESCs are large-scale service providers offering administrative, academic, fiscal, and operational support services to Ohio’s school districts, chartered nonpublic schools, community schools, and STEM schools

Every district with enrollment of 16,000 students (ADM) or fewer is required to be aligned to an ESC.

We currently employ staff in a variety of roles not limited to:

Classroom Personnel

Intervention Specialist (K-12)

Preschool Teacher

Speech Therapist

Occupational Therapist

Physical Therapist

Special Education Supervisor

School Psychologist

5

Continued: Edgerton Owes Its Beginnings ...

ficult travel to make it a good location for a new village. This happened along the route of every railroad built during the 1800s in Williams County. In the case of the Michigan Southern & Northern Indiana Railroad, Bryan was the only existing town in Williams County on the railroad’s proposed route. John Sargent helped lay out the villages of Edgerton and Stryker, both about 10 miles in each direction from Bryan. Edgerton and Stryker can both, therefore, be considered true railroad towns— if the railroad wouldn’t have been surveyed through Williams County, they never would have existed.

Edgerton appears to have grown very quickly after it was surveyed. A railroad depot was soon constructed near the tracks. The first store was brought to Edgerton by the railroad company and was afterwards owned by William Hill. The Edgerton post office was start-

ed June 3, 1854, with Jackson M. Wood as the first postmaster. In 1855 Daniel Farnham moved his mercantile business into the new town, buying the lot on the northeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Indiana Street and erecting a store building. Joseph Spindler started a tannery soon after the village was founded. Within a couple of years, two hotels were in operation to cater to the wants of the traveling public and railroad workers.

An oar factory was built about 1860 on the west side of the St. Joseph River north of the railroad. Ash timber from the area was floated down the St. Joseph River or hauled to Edgerton on wagons or bobsleds, where it was converted into oars and shipped out on the railroad.

By 1864 the growing village

CONTINUED ON PAGE 86

FUNERAL HOMES

“THE ARK” - A floating tavern on the St. Joseph River—was launched from Edgerton. In the fall of 1908, Williams County was voted dry while neighboring Defiance County remained wet. Two enterprising St. Joseph Township men, Jacob Lahrman and William Cape, constructed a bar on a tent-covered raft, which was christened “the Ark.” The floating tavern was launched at Edgerton on May 23, 1909, and floated down the St. Joseph River to the county line. The Ark was anchored under the Clarksville bridge on the Defiance County side of the river. The Ark was centrally located amongst dry towns including Edgerton and Hicksville, and Butler, Auburn and Waterloo, Ind., which provided good patronage. Local residents complained that the saloon created a nuisance because the noise and reflections of lights frightened horses on the bridge, making it “unsafe for any woman to attempt to drive across the structure after dark.” After two days of operation, rainfall caused the river to rise, threatening to crush the Ark under the bridge. The owners cast off and floated out of danger. However, when the Ark anchored on adjacent private property, the landowners took legal action. On May 29, 1909, an injunction ordering the Ark to cease and desist was issued. In Milford Township, Defiance County, petitions for a local option election were quickly circulated. In a Beal local option election held June 18, 1909, Milford Township was voted dry 146 to 33, ending the Ark’s hopes of success. The voyage of the second Ark ended much more quickly than its Biblical counterpart with the little boat coming to rest on a mountain of controversy. These 1909 images of the Ark are from the WCPL Huffman Photographic Archives.

Continued: Edgerton Owes Its Beginnings ...

had two general stores, three saloons, a grocery store, hotel, produce dealer, harness shop, four boot and shoe shops, a house and sign painter, tannery, drug store, three doctors, four carpenters, two coopers (barrel makers), two blacksmiths and wagon makers, a cabinet maker and undertaker, jeweler, brick mason, hardware store, two sawmills, an oar factory, Methodist Episcopal and Disciples of Christ churches and a school.

By 1865 Edgerton was large enough that its citizens felt the need for better organization of the village. On September 4, 1865, 41 Edgerton residents petitioned the Williams County Commissioners to incorporate the village. Their petition was approved on December 4, 1865, allowing the people of Edgerton to elect a mayor, council and other municipal officials, enact local ordinances and levy taxes.

Local historians consider the years just after the Civil War as Edgerton’s greatest growth period. About this time many manufacturing companies were established there including a barrel stave factory, woolen mill, and a gristmill. The town’s first oar factory burned down about 1865 and was rebuilt during this period also. With plenty of employment available, the town’s population grew from an estimated 270 people in 1860 to 690 in 1870 and 782 in 1880.

According to the best available information, the first schoolhouse in Edgerton stood at the site of the present school. The next building was erected northwest of the intersection of Indiana and Michigan streets. The third was built prior to 1864 west of the Methodist Church on Hull Street and was later used as a Masonic hall. In 1867 a brick school was built at the southeast corner of Elm and Bement streets. This two-story, 40 by 70 foot school contained four rooms. A new twostory brick school was constructed on North Michigan Avenue in 1906. A new high school was

completed on East River Street in 2004. An approximately $19 million, 48,000-square-foot elementary school facility was dedicated east of the high school on August 28, 2011

A telegraph school was operated from 1871 to 1923 by Mike C. McGuire, a 50-year railroad employee who was the local ticket agent and had charge of the railroad’s telegraph office. A 1903 newspaper account of the school said, “200 or 300 students have obtained good positions through this school. Young men and women from several of our adjoining states as well as home pupils have been thoroughly trained to fill responsible positions by this institution.”

The Edgerton United Methodist Church was organized in 1859. By 1861, they had erected a small wooden frame building which stood on the site of the present brick church. This was the first church in Edgerton. After the turn of the century, this wooden church was moved to the next lot west and a brick church was built on the site of the old one. The new church was dedicated May 17, 1903. In 2012, the 1903 church was destroyed by a lightning-induced fire. A new church was completed on the site in 2014.

The Edgerton Church of Christ was organized prior to 1864, as a map published that year shows their church on West Indiana Street. The church was expanded in 1960 and was used until October 17, 1976, when the congregation moved into its new house of worship on Laubach Drive.

St. Mary’s Catholic Church was organized as early as 1853. Their first church was erected southeast of Edgerton. In 1866 a wooden frame church was completed at the southwest corner of Bement and Locust streets. The present church was dedicated December 21, 1944. The old church was converted into a Knights of Columbus hall.

ORIGINAL BUSINESS - One of Williams County’s oldest businesses is Krill Funeral Service, which traces its history to 1875. The firm’s founder, Henry Krill, was born in Germany in 1859 and immigrated with his family to the United States when he was 10 years old. In 1875, Henry began working for J.H. Miller’s Edgerton furniture and undertaking firm. Miller made coffins “to measure” from walnut lumber, and Krill trimmed them, lining the inside and installing handles; it took about half a day to manufacture each coffin. Around 1885, Henry became a partner in the firm, and he assumed full ownership a few years later when health issues forced Miller to retire. The great Edgerton fire of July 1893 destroyed Krill’s wooden frame building on the east side of North Michigan Avenue; he constructed the brick structure shown in this photograph on the site. Krill claimed to have arranged the funeral services of more than 2,000 people—more than twice Edgerton’s population at the time of his death in 1938. Henry Krill is the mustached man standing at the building entrance in this undated photo. The bearded man on the right is identified only as “Uncle John;” the rest are unidentified. From 1980 to 2021, fourth generation owners J. Michael and Rebecca Krill managed Krill Funeral Service facilities in Edgerton, Edon and Bryan. In 2021, the business was sold to Gary and Amie Burr. This vintage image is from the Kevin Maynard collection.

It is not known when the Edgerton German Lutheran Church was organized, but by 1866 they had constructed a church on the northwest corner of Oak and Hull streets. A 1927 account says: “The membership is small and services are conducted regularly once a month by Rev. F. W. Henkleman of Bryan.” By 1927 the congregation no longer had a church to meet in. When the congregation disbanded in unknown.

The Edgerton Presbyterian Church was organized in 1879 by Rev. P. C. Baldwin. On July 24,

1881, they dedicated a wooden frame church on the north side of East Lynn Street. The Presbyterian congregation united with the Methodists in 1929.

It is not known when the St. Paul German Reformed Church was organized, but on September 19, 1886, the congregation dedicated a brick church on the southwest corner of Oak and Hull streets. By 1903 the church had been sold to the Evangelical church which was organized north

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Continued: Edgerton Owes Its Beginnings

of Edgerton in 1867 as the Fish Creek Evangelical Church.

The Edgerton Christian and Missionary Alliance Church was organized in 1976. That December a house at 213 East Lynn Street was purchased and services were held there until their new church on the Clarksville Road was dedicated November 6, 1977.

Edgerton’s first newspaper is believed to have been the Union Advertiser, published by A. B. Knight, with the first issue printed December 2, 1869. In 1871 the Edgerton Journal was being published, but by March 1872, it was out of business. The Edgerton Weekly was started in the fall of 1875 and two years later its name was changed to the Edgerton Herald; this newspaper was published until 1882. In November 1882, the Edgerton Observer was started and in 1888 its name was changed

to the Edgerton Earth, the name it retains to this day.

The village had no town hall for its first 30 years. A brick town hall was built in 1884 by Von Behren & Shaffer of Stryker. A bell was placed in the tower the following year which was removed in 1990 and placed on the brick pedestal in front of the town hall. Over the years the town hall served as a place for lectures, entertainments, institutes, council and school board meetings and as a voting place. The historic town hall suffered severe structural storm damage on June 23, 2010 and was razed in August 2010.

A natural gas well was bored in 1887 on the Frank Burkhart farm about a half mile northwest of town. The gas was piped into town and used for several years by about 60 customers. The well filled with water around 1890,

ending Edgerton’s gas boom.

A disastrous fire hit the town in July 1893. Soon afterward the village purchased an old handpumped fire engine from Bryan, and the Edgerton Fire Department was founded November 20, 1894.

Edgerton’s first street lights were kerosene lamps on posts. The town hired a man to light them in the evening and extinguish them in the morning.

The first telephones were installed in 1899 and a power plant was built in 1903. The lights were turned on in time for the dedication of the existing Methodist church on May 17, 1903. A water plant, water tower and water distribution system were constructed in 1937-38 as a WPA project.

The Civil War monument, nicknamed “Clem,” was dedicated May 30, 1912, at the center of the intersection of Indiana and Michigan

streets as a memorial to the patriotism of the community and those who served in the great conflict. As years went by and the change from horse drawn to motorized vehicles occurred, Clem’s position in the middle of Edgerton’s main intersection became increasingly unpopular, especially to operators of tractor-trailer rigs. The statue was moved to the park in front of the village hall in 1972. On June 23, 2010, a severe weather microburst damaged the town hall, fire station and Clem. In September 2011, following repairs, Clem returned to his former location.

Edgerton today is one of the most progressive communities in Williams County with a solid commercial and industrial base to provide jobs and services for its residents along with an excellent library, school and churches.

Village Of Edgerton

- Mayor Robert Day -

As Williams County celebrates its 200th anniversary, it gives an opportunity for each community to pause and reflect on our humble beginnings.

The area around Edgerton was organized on December 3, 1833 as St. Joseph Township, establishing a Post Office and being platted in 1854, before finally becoming incorporated on December 4th, 1865.

The village was named after its founder, Alfred Peleg Edgerton, a land developer from New York City. Mr. Edgerton served in the Ohio State Senate for one term, 1845-46. He later was elected to the U.S. House of Representative for District 5, serving two terms from 1851-1855. He was an unsuccessful candidate for Lieutenant Governor in 1868.

The original draw to our area was the St. Joe River and the railroad. Many businesses and industries were developed involving either or both resources.

Today’s draw is centered around our accessibility to the region and beyond, as we are the intersection of State Route 49 and U.S. Federal Highway Rt 6, that stretches from the Atlantic to the Pacific Oceans.

Our quality schools, active business district, ever improving parks and a return to using the river, this time as recreation, provides local opportunities for our residents.

Edgerton is poised to leap forward in the next few years, after being awarded over $14 million dollars in infrastructure improvements and brownfield clean up that is hoping to be completed by the end of 2026.

We are committed to do things in Edgerton that will live long beyond ourselves for our residents, for the ‘next’ 200 years.

Historic Local Tidbit

FAMILY STORY - HISTORIAN BILL PRIEST

My third great grandparents, John and Anna Smith, lived in a log cabin north of Edon over 175 years ago. They had to fight off wolves several times just to get back to their home at the end of the day. They did it with the help of their dog and a corn cutter made from an old scythe that they usually used to harvest their corn crop.

What Do You Enjoy About Williams County?

Edgerton High School Students

ALEXIS VERMILLION

BRANDYN FROST NYE

ALYVIA R. YODER BRET PAYTON

ANNA VERMILLION

EVELYN GERSCHUTZ

WHY WOULD GOD SAVE ME!?

1 John 4:9-10

God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacri ce to take away our sins.

Edon Known By Many Names Over The Years

By: Kevin Maynard LOCAL HISTORIAN

Edon can trace its roots to the arrival of Andrew Sheline in 1855. Although there were several other settlers in the area before Mr. Sheline, it was his initiative which laid the foundation for the present village; without him, the site of Edon would likely be a country crossroads today.

Andrew Sheline was born in

Pennsylvania in 1819. His father was a farmer and teamster. The Sheline family moved to Carroll County, Ohio, when Andrew was about five years old. He lived in Carroll County until 1855 when he decided to move further west to seek his fortune.

Mr. Sheline arrived at the future site of Edon, and with his neighbors’ help cut down about two acres of forest at what is today the northeast corner of Michigan and

Indiana streets. Afterwards Andrew built a small log cabin and a steam powered sawmill, which began operating in May 1856. Later that year he constructed a two-story gristmill powered by the same equipment as the sawmill. Sheline is also credited with building the first dry goods and grocery store, cabinet shop and doctor’s office in the village in addition to farming 80 acres of land. In 1866 he and Joseph Allomong built a three-

story woolen mill where wool was made into cloth.

Mills were an important local industry in the 1800s and after these mills began operating, more people and businesses moved into the area. A man named Herbert built a small plank house on the northwest corner of the intersection about 1856 and opened a small store and later an ashery. Edon’s

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Continued: Edon Known By Many Names ...

first physician, Dr. Ezra Mann, moved to the small settlement in 1857 or 1858. Robert Smith built a general store about 1858. By 1860 the population was estimated at about 60 people.

Although the area had the appearance of a small town, there was no formal village plat surveyed for a number of years. Sylvanus Garwood is credited with nicknaming the settlement “Mudsock” because of its muddy streets, a moniker which clung to the town for many years. An 1866 map of Ohio which was used in the 1874 Williams County atlas lists the future site of Edon as “Sheline’s Mills.”

In spite of these nicknames, the first official title the village had was not Edon, but “Weston.” In 1861, Edward Payson Weston became famous when he walked from Boston to Washington, D.C., a distance of 453 miles, in 208 hours. He was christened “Weston the Walkist” and made other “speed walks”

in his lifetime, including several through Williams County. It is unknown when the town first became known as Weston, but it is labeled as such on an 1864 map.

Weston continued to grow through the 1860s, but it wasn’t until 1867 that the town was formally surveyed. Andrew Sheline, Robert Lees, Conrad Yockey, Thomas Smith, George W. Hunter, John Aller, Thomas Laux, Samuel Cook, Jacob Keltenbach, John Klink, Daniel Klink and George Huber—all land-owners in the vicinity—employed Williams County surveyor A. T. Bement to survey the village of Weston, consisting of 41 lots, on September 21, 1867. For some reason it appears that the town plat was never officially recorded at the Williams County courthouse, and it was resurveyed by the next county surveyor, C. W. Skinner, on July 7, 1869, and finally recorded.

VILLAGE OF WESTON - On September 21, 1867, 12 local landowners had the village of Weston surveyed in Florence Township. In 1874, the village was incorporated and its name was changed to Edon—the name of the post office established in Weston in 1867. This circa 1910 photograph of the west side of Edon’s Michigan Street was taken looking north from Indiana Street. This vintage image is from the Williams County Public Library Photographic Archives.

From 1854 to 1867 there was a post office one mile north and one mile east of Weston known as Luke’s Corners. On Decem-

Continued: Edon Known By Many Names

ber 26, 1867, the post office was moved into Weston, and Charles L. Eichelberger, a local merchant, became the first postmaster. Ordinarily the post office would have assumed the same name as the village, but a Weston, Ohio, post office had already been established in Wood County in 1863, and the post office department would not allow two post offices in the same state to have the same name. “Edon” was selected as the name for the new post office. The origin of the name is uncertain, although it was probably Biblically influenced; the difference in spelling has never been accounted for, and there is no record of an “Eden” post office in Ohio at that time.

Weston continued to grow slowly but steadily and by 1870 had an estimated 200 residents. About this time the proposed Chicago & Canada Southern Railroad was surveyed through Weston and Montpelier, sparking accelerated growth in both villages.

The town had grown sufficiently by 1874 that the citizens believed it was time to create a municipal government. A petition was filed with the Williams County Commissioners on May 25, 1874, to incorporate the town as the Village of Edon, so that the village and its post office would both have the same name. The petition was granted in August 1874, and in April 1875 Edon elected its first mayor, council and other village officials. By that fall a town hall and jail, or “calaboose,” had been built. A two-story brick town hall was completed on the south side of Indiana Street, onehalf block east of Michigan Street, 1894. This historic structure was razed in 2012.

Although the Chicago & Canada Southern Railroad failed to materialize, Edon continued to grow slowly. By 1880 it had a population of 513 and in 1890, 601 residents.

Two years later, in 1892, the Wabash Railroad extension from Chicago to Montpelier was built

through Edon. A railroad was very important to a town in the 1800s. People of course had no automobiles; travel was on foot or by horse power over roads that were impassable a large part of the year because of mud or snow. A railroad allowed people to travel quickly and easily throughout the year. It also meant cheaper and faster transportation of goods. This allowed local businessmen to sell goods cheaper and also provided an outlet for agricultural products and manufactured goods, boosting the local economy.

In the summer of 1892 the historic Edon depot, now restored and located in Walz Park, was built north of the railroad tracks, east of Michigan Street, and was a hub of local activity for many years.

With the boost from the railroad, by 1894 Edon had grown to a town with two general stores; Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias and Masonic Lodges; a drugstore; bank; furniture store; jewelry store; boot and shoe store; three grocery stores; three agricultural implements stores; two meat markets; a wagon shop; two blacksmith shops; post office; clothing store; doctor’s office; harness shop; millinery store; barber shop; tin and galvanized iron shop; and a gristmill.

All of these businesses went up in smoke during the great July 12, 1894, fire, which nearly destroyed Edon. Believed to have started the fire was a spark from the smokestack of E. R. Sheline’s factory, which set fire to the roof of a shed behind the Hotel Corey. A strong wind carried burning debris to other buildings and within 70 minutes a total of 70 buildings—26 business buildings, 26 houses, 18 stables and the Lutheran church— were destroyed. Nearly the entire town north of Indiana Street between Union and Main streets was burned to the ground. Only four businesses were left after the blaze, which caused an estimated $200,000 in damage.

EARLY MILLS - Mills were some of Williams County’s first businesses and helped tame the pioneer wilderness. Sawmills provided sawn lumber to replace crude log structures with frame buildings, a great step in the march of progress during pioneer times. Gristmills provided a market for locally-grown grain and produced cornmeal and flour, essential parts of a settler’s diet. Mill products were considered valuable commodities, and people traveled many miles under often difficult circumstances to get them. Early mills were operated using the water power of local creeks or rivers; later steam boilers, gasoline engines and electricity supplied power. The earliest local gristmills ground grain between two millstones. By the 1880s, roller mills using metal rollers to produce finer, more consistent flour appeared. This circa 1910 vintage image of the Edon Roller Mills is from the Kevin Maynard collection.

Although the fire was devastating and many families were left homeless, the people of Edon didn’t give up; by that fall, nine brick business buildings and about 20 other structures had been rebuilt.

The Edon town band was organized as early as 1885, and that year they “erected a very nice bandstand at the corner of the public square.” Adalene Thompson wrote that in the early 1900s, “Edon usually had a town band, and their Saturday night concerts drew people from many miles. There was not too much in the way of musical entertainment, and the thought of hearing our cornet band was really something to anticipate with pleasure.” It is not known when the group disbanded (no pun intended).

The first school in Edon was a two-story brick building erected in 1876 on the northwest corner of

Franklin and Porter streets. A new school was built in 1899, which burned down in January 1904. Another building, identical except for minor details, was completed in 1905 to replace the burned school. In 1926 an auditorium was constructed, a new high school in 1939, and a middle school in 1956. A pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 school facility was completed in 2004 at 802 West Indiana Street. The Edon Church of Christ was formed May 20, 1856. The congregation met at various places until they completed a wooden frame church at the southwest corner of Franklin and Michigan streets in 1868-70. This was probably the first church erected in Edon. In 1896 a new brick church was built to replace the wooden frame building. This brick church burned

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Continued: Edon Known By Many Names ...

down on January 5, 1947. The basement of the present church was dedicated in 1949 and the church proper on July 15, 1951.

St. Peter’s Lutheran Church was organized in 1867, and in 1872 they erected a wooden frame church on the site of the existing edifice. This building and the parsonage were destroyed by the “Great Edon Fire of 1894.” The existing brick church was built to replace the burned structure.

The Edon United Methodist Church was organized north of the village as early as 1843, but it was not until March 9, 1879, that they dedicated their first church in Edon at the corner of Church and Pleasant streets. This wooden frame church was torn down in 1901 and a brick church constructed which was dedicated March 15, 1903. This fine church burned down Oc-

tober 27, 1916. A temporary tabernacle was used for worship services until the existing church was dedicated on November 17, 1918.

The earliest known newspaper in Edon was the Edon Advertiser, published by DeWitt & Abbott, with the first issue printed October 4, 1883. One year later Mr. DeWitt moved the office to Stryker and started the Stryker Advance.

On February 23, 1893, George W. Grames started publishing the Weekly Graphic at Edon. For some reason, within a month he moved the newspaper to Hamilton, Ind.

About 1892 John F. Davis of Coldwater, Mich., started the Week’s News. By 1894 the paper was being run by Brown & Bloom. They sold it to George Weeks, who changed the name to the Edon Independent. In 1904 Arthur Powers purchased the business and

EARLY RAILROAD - (July

12, 1892) Tracklayers on the Wabash Railroad’s Montpelier to Chicago rail extension reached Edon, “connecting it by iron bands with the bustling, busy world.” An Edon correspondent reported in the July 21, 1892, issue of Montpelier Enterprise newspaper: “Edon is happy. The long looked for railroad is here. It brings with it wealth. The farmer can now market his products and buy goods cheaper on account of the transportation facilities. When the construction train reached the center of the village the citizens turned out and were treated to a lunch of cake, cookies and lemonade and cigars.” By October 1892, the Wabash Railroad completed this wooden frame depot on the north side of the railroad, east of Michigan Street. An Edon correspondent described the new depot as “one of the nicest depots in this country—a dandy.” The depot is today located in Walz Park. This circa 1910 vintage image of the Edon Wabash Railroad depot is from the Kevin Maynard collection.

changed the name to the Edon Commercial, which merged with The Advance Reporter to become The Village Reporter in 2010.

As the years went by and technological improvements were made in America, Edon reaped the benefits. Residents received telephones in 1898 and in 1909 an electric system was installed, allowing Edonites to replace their kerosene lamps with electric lights. With the development of the automobile, better streets were needed.

Paving in the village began circa 1914-15, and Edon was “Mudsock” no more. A traffic signal was installed at Michigan and Indiana streets in 1929 as traffic increased.

In 1938 Works Project Administration workers installed a municipal waterworks system. This supplied water not only for drinking, but also for businesses, manufacturing

plants and fire protection.

In 1976 the Norfolk & Western Railroad agreed to donate the old Edon depot to the Williams County Historical Society provided it was removed from their property. The depot was first moved south of the tracks and west of Ohio 49 in 1976. In 1987 the depot was again moved to Walz Park where it remained until 1991 when the village of Edon, the Williams County Historical Society and an anonymous donor each contributed $5,000 toward restoring the historic building and making it a usable community facility.

The village of Edon faces a promising future with numerous improvements such as sanitary sewer, natural gas system, Ohio Turnpike interchange, new school facilities, and industrial expansions recently completed.

Village Of Edon

- Mayor Duane Thiel -

As Mayor of the Village of Edon, on behalf of the village residents, I congratulate Williams County for 200 successful years.

As a village, we applaud the Commissioners for putting forth the time and effort to make this celebration a success.

Edon was platted as a Village in 1867, with its name originally being Weston.

Since there was another Weston in Ohio, the name was eventually changed to Edon.

The people of Edon have contributed to the success of Williams County, including the honorable Judge Maxwell and Donald Kaiser, who served as a county commissioner for a number of years.

Throughout its 200 years, some interesting things have happened in Williams County. Here are some facts about Edon’s impact on Williams County.

-On Aug 3, 1795, the Treaty of Greenville was signed. This Treaty made a portion of Indiana and Ohio, including Williams County, an official part of the US Government.

-The Underground Railroad operated for a number of years in Williams County. This included Edon, whose residents offered secret routes and safe havens for enslaved black Americans seeking freedom.

-In the late 1800s, the Edon Railroad Depot was constructed, bringing significant railway activity throughout the region. World War I and II had an impact on Edon residents, as many were called to serve from around the area. During World War II, local manufacturing companies produced vital equipment used by the U.S. Military.

-In 1934, as part of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal Program, the 500th home in Williams County was erected, with that home being in the Village of Edon.

All these facts give a rich and interesting history to our surrounding area of Williams County and the Village of Edon. As a community we are proud of its past, and continue to strive toward a future of prosperity and growth.

Historic Local Tidbit

FIRST PERMANENT SETTLER

The first permanent settler within current Williams County borders is believed to be Samuel Holton Jr., who settled along Fish Creek in St. Joseph Township by January 1827. Although the “first settler” honor has traditionally been bestowed on James T. Guthrie, research indicates Guthrie didn’t permanently settle in Springfield Township until several years after Holton’s arrival.

What Do You Enjoy About Williams County?

ANNE HUG

ASHTON OBERLIN

MEGAN MATTHEWS

JAYCEA CRAVEN

LEYLA AVILA GARCIA

KALLY RANDALL

REESE HAND

ZANDER KURTZ

PEYTON TRAUSCH

KENDALL SIEBENALER

COHEN HULBERT

BLAKE BAKER

Holiday City, County’s Newest Village, Well Positioned For Growth

By: Kevin Maynard

LOCAL HISTORIAN

Holiday City is Williams County’s newest incorporated village, being officially established on June 24, 1997. However, Holiday City’s roots lie in construction of the Ohio Turnpike, which was officially opened to traffic in 1955.

Construction of the Williams County segment of the 241-mile Ohio Turnpike began in 1953. Exit 2 (now known as Exit 13) at Ohio Route 15 was designated as

the Bryan-Montpelier Interchange by the Ohio Turnpike Commission in 1954. Other Ohio Turnpike facilities constructed in Williams County at that time included the Westgate Interchange near Columbia in Northwest Township, the Tiffin River and Indian Meadow service plazas northeast of West Unity and the Kunkle Maintenance Facility south of Kunkle.

About the time that Exit 2 opened to traffic in 1955, two motels and a service station were

constructed on Ohio Route 15 south of the Turnpike. The 1961 Williams County Directory lists the Rainbow Motel, Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Faher, managers; the Exit 2 Motel, Mr. and Mrs. C. R. Hamilton, managers; the Exit 2 restaurant, Joe Santa, manager; and the Exit 2 Sohio service station.

With the economic development opportunities created by an Ohio Turnpike interchange, additional businesses sprouted up on the future Holiday City site over time.

In 1956, Emery E. Manley platted Manley’s Subdivision—consisting of 12 lots—on the east side

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VILLAGE HALL ... Pictured is the Village Hall on a sunny April 2024 afternoon. (Photos by - Anna Wozniak-Villegas / The Village Reporter)

Continued: Holiday City, County’s Newest ...

of Ohio Route 15, north of the Wabash (now known as Norfolk Southern) Railroad. A number of residences occupy the site today.

In 1965, the Chase Brass & Copper Company (now known as Wieland-Chase) manufacturing facility opened south of the Ohio Turnpike and has expanded its facilities and operations a number of times since. Wieland-Chase supplies the North American market with high-quality brass rod, forgings and ingots for numerous applications, like building and construction, industrial machinery, transportation and electrical.

The Bryan-Montpelier Holiday Inn (later known as the Ramada Inn and now as the Quality Inn) opened for business in 1974. The Holiday Inn originally included 120 rooms, a restaurant and lounge, and dining rooms with a capacity of approximately 200. The Holiday

Inn Holidome expansion occurred in 1993, which included 45 Jacuzzi suites, 12,000 square feet of meeting space (including North and South atriums) indoor swimming pool, exercise/fitness room and an expanded kitchen, providing an excellent facility for hosting events of all kinds. The Suburban Suite/Quality Inn Hotel currently offers 162 sleeping rooms.

In 1991, local residents submitted a petition to the Williams County commissioners requesting incorporation of Holiday City. The new village was proposed by local residents, along with Holiday Inn and Chase Brass & Copper Company representatives, as a means of establishing a municipal electric utility as an alternative to Toledo Edison electric rates and service.

On September 23, 1991, the

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LOCAL LODGING OPTIONS ... Quality Inn / Suburban Studios that also hosts the popular restaurant JJ Winns is one important local lodging option in Holiday City.

Continued: Holiday City, County’s Newest ...

Williams County Commissioners unanimously granted the petition to incorporate the Village of Holiday City; however, due to legal challenges, Holiday City’s incorporation was not effective until June 24, 1997.

The first Holiday City municipal election was held on November 4, 1997, with seven candidates running unopposed. Holiday City’s first elected officials were Mayor Sean Rupp, Clerk-Treasurer Lauri TenEyck-Rupp, and Councilmembers Reed McMillen, Michael Shook, Josephine A. Clark, Dennis Hutchison, and Ronald N. Keil.

On January 2, 1998, Holiday City village council convened for the first time at the Holiday Inn. During this session, council appointed Seldwyn Clark to fill a vacant council seat. Dennis Hutchison was approved as Council President Pro Tem. This group of individuals then set about the task of creating a modern vil-

lage government from scratch.

20/20 Custom Molded Plastics, specializing in structural foam molding of large component parts, constructed a facility at 14620 Selwyn Drive, south of the Ohio Turnpike, east of Wieland-Chase, in 1999. 20/20 produces a wide variety of products, from plastic pallets and in-ground enclosures to floating dock systems, burial vaults and window wells for customers in the consumer products, construction, logistics, home and garden and leisure industries. 20/20 Custom Molded Plastics has expanded a number of times since it began its Holiday City operations.

During Holiday City’s first 20 years, it had no appointed marshal or contract for law enforcement services, relying instead on the Williams County Sheriff’s Department

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MAJOR EMPLOYER ... Holiday City is known as a key component of manufacturing in Williams County, including 20/20 Custom Molded Plastics.

as primary responders to all Holiday City 911 calls. Effective March 1, 2017, calls for police service originating in Holiday City were directed to the Montpelier Police Department under an agreement between the two municipalities. The Montpelier Police Department provides around the clock police service seven days a week and conducts patrols in Holiday City in a similar manner and frequency as those in Montpelier.

In July 2002, Holiday City village council awarded bids in the amount of $319,297 for construction of a village hall. The new municipal facility was completed in the fall of 2003 at 13918 County Road M, west of Ohio Route 15. A shelter house and picnic area

were added west of the Village Hall in 2013. In 2020, a 1,500-squarefeet addition to the Village Hall was constructed at a cost of approximately $600,000. The addition included two fireproof rooms for file storage and a new council chamber. The former council chamber was converted into a break room, janitorial area, police office and storage area.

Construction began in 2006 on Menards’ approximately 700,000-square-foot manufacturing and distribution complex located on a 640-acre site annexed into Holiday City. The Menards facility manufactures many of the products sold in its stores such as concrete landscaping blocks, siding and lumber products includ-

ing trusses. Like Wieland-Chase and 20/20 Custom Molded Plastics, the Menards facility has been expanded a number of times.

In May 2007, a 300,000-gallon village elevated storage tank (water tower) was completed southwest of the intersection of Traxler Drive and County Road 15 as part of the Menards project.

By October 1993, the Village of Montpelier extended its electric distribution system to serve the Holiday Inn. In 2005, Holiday City purchased Montpelier’s electric distribution facilities in the village. With continuing growth of local business and industry, Holiday City’s electric load outgrew its connections to Toledo Edison and Montpelier. In 2017, the village

completed its Selwyn Drive substation to serve the existing and projected electric demands of its customers.

Holiday City currently has a population of approximately 50 citizens. Although it is Williams County’s smallest incorporated village in terms of population, it is one of the county’s largest communities when it comes to total incorporated acreage. Holiday City’s businesses and industries are also among Williams County’s largest employers. The village is well positioned for additional growth with its Ohio Turnpike interchange, rail access and reliable, competitivelypriced electric service, achieving its founders’ 1991 vision.

What Do You Enjoy About Williams County?

Fountain Park Senior Citizens

KATHY BYERS

Village Of Holiday City

- Mayor Pamela Clark -

Williams County is full of persevering people who devote their time, passion, and livelihoods to run our county with integrity. Their goal is to not only improve our daily lives, but to invest in a future that serves us all. Our local leaders are exceptional at their service not because they gravitate towards the title of “politician,” but because their grit and love of our community calls to them. Williams County’s 200-year celebration is important because it recognizes the hard work of everyone, especially that of past generations, and it is an honor to reflect on the accomplishments of our community.

Holiday City was established on June 27, 1997. Our first council was not made up of politicians, but of farmers, laborers, and married couples that lived and farmed in the same area most of their lives. They did not choose to incorporate the village, but due to a legal battle with an electric company that resulted in its establishment, they were faced with an ultimatum: either govern themselves by electing a council, mayor, and clerk, or forfeit their village governance over to the state. Out of duty to each other and to their community, these neighbors committed themselves to public service.

The first council meetings were held six months later either in Councilman Dennis Hutchison pole barn or Councilman “Bud” Selwyn Clark’s basement–where council meetings were held until city hall was constructed in 2003. At the first meeting, the eight friends and neighbors that comprised the council had to decide on the final two open seats – the sixth and final council seat, and the role of mayor. Two individuals were amenable to either role, so it was decided that an amicable coin toss would determine that Sean Rupp would serve as Holiday City’s first mayor. While the role of mayor has transitioned to other leaders in the following years, Sean’s wife, Lauri TenEyck-Rupp has served with Holiday City’s Council for all 27 years starting as Clerk/ Treasurer and now as Fiscal Officer. She is a shining example of how the people in our village help to guide Holiday City into the beacon of growth and economic development that it is today.

Holiday City is the youngest village to join Williams County, but we are thrilled to follow the legacy of our incorporated peers before us. In our relatively short history as an incorporated village, multiple businesses have established themselves within our jurisdiction, providing jobs, restaurants, and hotels to our

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Happy Anniversary Williams, County Ohio

We Are Proud To Be A Small Part Of 200 Amazing Years.

growing local economy. We have also contributed to local annual events such as the Holiday City Wine Festival, which further highlights our community’s offerings. None of our successes would be possible without the hundreds of hours that our council members and leaders spend guiding our evolution.

While we have seen exponential growth in our relatively short history, this growth is only made possible through the humble service of our community leaders which extends through both years (such as the case of TenEyck-Rupp’s nearly three decades of service), and generations. One local family has had three generations serve on our council at some point.

While we have moved beyond that pole barn and have had several honorable citizens serve on our council over our years, our founding members are close to our memory, as we regularly dedicate public monuments and memorials in their honor. These include a road for Councilman Selwyn Clark, a flower garden for his wife, Councilwoman Jo Clark, and a public statue dedicated just this past month to Councilman Ron Keil Sr. We do this to not only honor their service, but to remind ourselves that for the best leadership demonstration, all we must do is look to our neighbor’s example. In this way, we guarantee our collective success and progress for generations to come.

FADED BANNER PUBLICATIONS

We Bring Our Vibrant Past, Including The Civil War, To Life

Through books, prints and greeting cards, as well as special reproductions geared toward living historians, Williams County based Faded Banner Publications illuminates America’s history. Curious about the prospect of ghosts and spirits? Veteran journalist, historian and author Don Allison’s latest books explore this aspect of history in a serious way.

How about true crime? Journalist Lynn Thompson shares his conclusions on the fate of the missing Skelton brothers of Michigan in the true crime book 76 Minutes

Faded Banner’s list of books includes:

Hell on Belle

Isle: Diary of a Civil War

POW by Don Allison, based on the journal of J. Osborn Coburn, who resided in Bryan and Edgerton before he served in the Civil War.

The Best of On My Mind Vol.

I and II, featuring some of Don’s favorite installments of his iconic On My Mind column that appears weekly in the Bryan Times.

Check

I Met a Ghost at Gettysburg: A Journalist’s Journey Into the Paranormal and its follow up, I Met More Ghosts at Gettysburg: A Journalist’s Paranormal Journey Continues. Don uses his skills honed as a veteran award-winning journalist to explore unexplained occurrences he has encountered in his historic 1830s home and on the historic Civil War battlefield of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

Almost Award Winning Christmas Carols: Holiday Hilarity, a collection of modern lyrics set to the tunes of our most popular classic carols created each year as part of Don’s long running On My Mind column.

76 Minutes: The Search for the Missing Skelton Brothers. This work by veteran journalist Lynn Thompson chronicles the disappearance of three young boys missing since they left to spend Thanksgiving with their father in 2010. Their father says they will “hibernate until they graduate” but police believe it’s a triple homicide. This crime remains unsolved, but Lynn presents insightful theories as to what really happened.

Montpelier Was Once Two Villages

By: Kevin Maynard LOCAL HISTORIAN

The beginnings of Montpelier have been difficult to trace with any degree of certainty. It is known that by 1845 John K. Bryner and Jesse Tucker built a water-powered mill at a bend in the St. Joseph River in Section 2 of Superior Township. On May 25 of that year, Bryner and

Tucker had Montpelier, consisting of 41 lots and a public square, surveyed just south of their mill.

Little is known about Tucker and Bryner. John Bryner’s grave has a Mexican War marker on it, indicating he left the area soon after Montpelier was platted to serve in this late 1840s conflict. After the

war, in 1849, he purchased 115.15 acres on the east side of Montpelier, which is now the location of the Williams County fairgrounds. Mr. Bryner is not listed on the 1850 or 1860 Williams County censuses, but his wife, Lucynda, died in 1863 and is buried in the Louden Cemetery in Montpelier, indicating he may have returned to the area

Congratulations

by this time. Bryner is listed on the 1870 census as being born in Pennsylvania, a farmer by trade, and it appears he was 63 years old. John Bryner died March 6, 1871 and is buried beside his wife.

Local tradition has it that the man who surveyed Montpelier (Thomas Ogle according to the

CONTINUED ON PAGE 112

Williams County On 200 Years!

Established in 1924 by Leo & Edith Fackler, Fackler Monument Company, INC. has stood as a cornerstone of the community and evolved into one of Montpelier's most enduring enterprises, faithfully catering to the tri-state area for 100 years!

After being acquired by George Roerig in 1966 and subsequently passed down to Dan & Andrea Roerig in 1996, the company entered a new era in 2023 under the ownership of Paul Roerig Jr. & Sierra Savage, marking its transition into a third-generation, family-owned business!

Sierra Savage & Paul Roerig

Continued: Montpelier Was Once Two Villages

original plat, certified by Seth B. Hyatt, county surveyor pro tem) walked from Williams Center to Pulaski, a distance of about eight miles, where Dr. John Paul offered him a ride to the proposed town site. In return for this favor, Dr. Paul was allowed to name the fledgling village “Montpelier” after the capital of his home state, Vermont.

Why did Tucker and Bryner choose this location for Montpelier? Several possibilities exist. Prior to 1845, Williams County had two additional rows of townships on its south end, making the county’s border about 12 miles further south than at present. Bryan, the county seat, was at that time near the geographical center of Williams County. On March 4, 1845, Defiance County was created, taking two

rows of townships off of Williams County’s south end; this left Bryan about two miles from the south boundary and placed Bryner and Tucker’s mill near the geographical center of the new, smaller Williams County. This turn of events made their site favorable for the location of a town and the county seat if it ever was moved from Bryan. Also, if a town developed, it meant additional business for the pair’s mill.

By 1846, two stores were doing business in Montpelier, and a gristmill and an ashery were constructed about the time the town was surveyed. In December 1846, the Eagle Creek post office, established August 30, 1843, at Robert Ogle’s farm northwest of town, was relocated to Conroy Mallory’s store in the village and renamed

MONTPELIER FAIRGROUNDS - The Williams County Agricultural Society was organized in the old Williams County courthouse in Bryan. That fall, on October 7-8, 1856, the first Williams County fair was held around the courthouse square. The Williams County Fair was held in Bryan until 1886. In 1885, the Montpelier Union Agriculture Company was organized. The following year the group purchased 37½ acres on the east side of Montpelier and developed a fairgrounds. By 1899, the Montpelier Fair was a bust, and no fair was held in Williams County that year. The Williams County Agricultural Society acquired the Montpelier fairgrounds in January 1900. The Williams County Fair has been held at this location ever since. This circa 1910 vintage image of the Williams County Fair midway and track is from the Kevin Maynard collection.

Montpelier.

An 1853 newspaper account states, “Montpelier is a thriving little village with three stores, two groceries, one tavern, one fine gristmill, a (wool) carding machine and various mechanics. We have but little idea of the population, but suppose it to be about 200.”

Three years earlier, in 1850, Montpelier made its first bid to get the county seat moved from Bryan, where it had been established in 1840. Being near the center of Williams County, Montpelier would have been a more convenient location for a majority of the county’s resi-

dents in the days of traveling by horse power over roads which were seas of mud much of the year. The Montpelierites’ logical plea failed to convince the State Legislature in 1850, however, and similar attempts in 1853 and 1857 produced similar results. The conflict smoldered until 1888 when the present Williams County courthouse was built in Bryan, settling the question.

An 1864 map of Montpelier shows a steam sawmill, gristmill, several stores, a hardware/tinsmith shop, the Empire House hotel, harness shop,

CONGRATULATIONS WILLIAMS COUNTY ON YOUR 200TH ANNIVERSARY

Founded in Montpelier, OH, Powers and Sons, LLC has grown into a multinational company serving customers worldwide. With a highly productive longterm workforce, Powers and Sons has been awarded the highest Quality and Warranty Ratings from all of the major OEM’s. Our dedicated engineering and test capabilities ensure the products we design and manufacture are best-in-class.

We believe in keeping things local by spending

40% of our component purchasing dollars within Williams County while utilizing our in-house forging, machining and assembly processes.

Our people continue to be the main reason that Powers and Sons has grown and prospered for 90 years. With many 2nd and 3rd generation employees now contributing to our tradition of high quality craftmanship, our reputation as a great place to work and as an industry leader continues to this day.

Continued: Montpelier Was Once Two Villages

blacksmith shop, tannery, school, post office, cabinet and chair maker, wagon wheel shop, United Brethren church, two doctors and a number of homes.

An interesting little-known fact is that on March 28, 1857, Leonard Merry and Samuel S. Bryant had the village of South Montpelier, consisting of 160 lots, surveyed just southeast of Montpelier.

Montpelier grew very slowly during its first 30 years. Then in the early 1870s, a survey for the Chicago & Canada Southern Railroad was made through the village. This anticipated improvement sparked rapid growth in the little community. On March 3, 1874, a petition signed by 51 Montpelier residents, asking for incorporation of the village and the merging of Montpelier and South

Montpelier, was filed at the county auditor’s office. On May 19, 1874, the commissioners granted the petition, but Montpelierites did not elect their first municipal officials until April 1875.

The Chicago & Canada Southern Railroad failed to materialize, but by 1880 Montpelier was the seventh largest village in Williams County with a population of 405 people.

After a false start, Montpelier’s fortunes skyrocketed with the construction of the Detroit, Butler & St. Louis Railroad (later known as the Wabash and today as the Norfolk & Southern) through the village in 1880. The railroad provided a convenient shipping point for the area’s agricultural products as well as manufactured commodities. With transportation avail-

VIADUCT - In 1906, the Wabash (now Norfolk Southern) Railroad agreed to relocate its freight division to Montpelier, add 12 stalls to its roundhouse, and build a viaduct over the railroad at Platt Street, if the Village of Montpelier would acquire certain lots needed to enlarge the railroad’s facilities, close the East Avenue, Pleasant and Harrison streets rail crossings, and build approaches to the viaduct. On October 1, 1906, Montpelier citizens approved issuing $10,000 in bonds to construct the viaduct approaches by a vote of 479 to 18. In 1907 the Wabash moved its freight division from Ashley, Indiana to Montpelier, and the 250-foot-long steel Platt Street viaduct was completed over the Wabash Railroad. The Montpelier Leader newspaper reported, “Those who have pinned their faith to Montpelier in the past and believed that Montpelier would eventually be the most important point on the Wabash system between Toledo and Chicago, Detroit and St. Louis, have realized their hopes.” The 1907 viaduct was removed after the new $700,000 Platt Street bridge was opened to traffic on September 28, 1962. This circa 1910 image of the Platt Street viaduct is from the Kevin Maynard collection.

able, a barrel stave factory and an oar factory were soon established to take advantage of the area’s ash and oak timber resources, with logs being floated down the St. Joseph River to the manufacturing facilities. Baldwin Brothers constructed the first brick business building in the village in 1880, and numerous other retail businesses were soon started in the boomtown.

Montpelier’s early newspaper history has been difficult to trace. Goodspeed’s 1882

county history states that the Montpelier Eagle, a Spiritualist paper, was the first to be published there. “Second was the Star of the West, a neutral paper devoted especially to local interests and established in 1855 by T. D. Montgomery, a practical printer, who removed from Hillsdale, Mich., and after running it two months, sold to D. Stauffer and Aaron Crissey, by whom it was conducted about six months, when the material was sold to Frank

Continued: Montpelier Was Once Two Villages

Rosenberg, who afterward removed it to Ottokee, then county seat of Fulton County, and there founded a Democratic organ.” The history also notes: “Judge Joshua Dobbs established a Democratic newspaper in 1852 at Montpelier. Its career was a brief one. Van Buren Shouf, now a well-known citizen of Bryan, was his printer and manager.”

Other written records make the validity of all of this information questionable. On September 22, 1855, the Defiance Democrat reported: “North Star—This is now the name of the paper at Montpelier, Williams County—a change from True Free Soiler. B. F. Montgomery is now editor and publisher.” An obituary of Aaron Crissey in December 1856 not-

ed that “He was for some time the editor of the True Free Soiler, an anti-slavery paper published at Montpelier.”

An article in the May 4, 1871 Bryan Press added this information: “About this time [1855] there was a paper started at Montpelier by T. D. Montgomery called the True Free Soiler, which was afterwards conducted by Crissey & Stauffer; and after this still by Crissey & Bayes. Some time after this the office went into the hands of B. F. Montgomery, now a resident of Council Bluffs, Iowa, and who was a Democratic candidate for Congress last fall, who changed the name of the paper to the North Star, and after publishing the paper a short time removed the office to Ottokee, Fulton County, Ohio.”

NATIONAL THRESHERS’ ASSOCIATION - (June 25, 1953) The National Threshers’ Association annual reunion was held for the first time on the Williams County fairgrounds in Montpelier. The National Threshers Association was founded by LeRoy and Lucile Blaker of rural Alvordton. The steam engine enthusiasts’ annual reunions were held on the Blaker farm beginning in 1945, but growing attendance forced a move to the Williams County fairgrounds in 1953. Since circa 1965 the reunion has been held at the Fulton County Fairground in Wauseon. This June 25, 1959 photograph from the Threshers’ Reunion on the Williams County fairgrounds is from the Kevin Maynard collection.

The 1905 Fulton County history notes, “The second effort to establish a newspaper in Ottokee was made by T. D. Montgomery, who, during the summer of 1856, issued the Signal. It was printed on the same press and material which had been used by Mr. Montgomery in the publication of the Star of the West, a paper started in Montpelier, Williams County, in 1854. The press, type and other fixtures were brought to Ottokee from Montpelier by wagon, and it may be assumed that difficulties were met with in performing the journey. The Signal was published for something over six months when it was suspended, the publisher being fully satisfied in the matter of experience.” It has not been possible to reconcile these conflicting statements, and the

reader is left to draw his or her own conclusions.

The first issue of the Montpelier Enterprise—which served the area as the LeaderEnterprise until 2019—was published September 20, 1880. A number of other newspapers have been printed at Montpelier, whose histories were detailed by the late Paul Van Gundy in the 1978 Williams County history.

Montpelier grew at such a phenomenal pace that the 1890 census revealed a population of 1,203, making it second only in size to Bryan in Williams County.

In 1885, the Montpelier Union Agriculture Company was organized, and the following year they purchased 37½ acres on the east side of the

Continued: Montpelier Was Once Two Villages

village from the estate of town founder John K. Bryner and developed a fairgrounds. The Montpelier Fair was held annually for more than 10 years, when the fairgrounds were purchased by the Williams County Agricultural Society which has conducted the fair ever since. In addition to being the site of the county fair every September, the Williams County Historical Society’s extensive museum complex and the Williams County Veterans’ Memorial are also located on the fairgrounds.

Montpelier experienced another banner year in 1892, when the Wabash Railroad purchased more than 20 acres to build a locomotive roundhouse and railroad yard in Montpelier. These improvements coincided

with the opening of the Wabash’s new Chicago to Detroit rail extension. A fine new depot was erected in 1895 and the area surrounding the depot became a virtual beehive of activity.

The first Montpelier town hall was an old frame schoolhouse that was moved to the public square and divided into two parts—one side serving as a classroom and meeting room, the other converted into a “calaboose” or jail. With the town’s continued good fortunes, bonds were issued and a fine new brick town hall was jointly constructed in 1892 by the Village and Superior Township. This beautiful historic building, with additions and alterations, still serves as the headquarters for

village government.

The Wabash Railroad remained a dominant force in the community for many years. In 1901, the Wabash extension from Montpelier to Toledo was completed; in 1907 the shops were moved from Ashley, Ind., to Montpelier. The division offices were brought to town in 1917 and housed above a downtown bank until the railroad built an office building next to the depot in 1936. A 1936 newspaper reported that the Wabash employed 400 people locally, with an office staff of 20. The railroad was so closely identified with the town’s prosperity that the phase “As the Wabash goes, so goes Montpelier” was coined, and the high school teams became known as the “Montpelier

Locomotives.”

Twentieth century transportation improvements caused a decline in the railroad’s use and importance. Passenger service through Montpelier was discontinued in 1971. The division offices were moved to Fort Wayne and the historic depot, once a focal point of activity in Montpelier, had been vacant for about two years when it was demolished in February 1981.

The town’s metamorphosis from a railroad town to a more diversified economy has not always been easy, but the citizens’ hard work and determination are beginning to pay good dividends. Many improvements have recently been made and Montpelier’s future looks very promising.

Village Of Montpelier

- Mayor Steve Yagelski -

As Williams County prepares to celebrate 200 years of success and growth, on behalf of the residents of Montpelier we wish nothing but continued success. Just like Williams County being rich in history Montpelier is proud to be part of its growth.

The Village of Montpelier was platted in 1845 and consisted of 41 lots and a public square just south of mill that was powered by the St. Joe River. Over the years additional businesses have been located here due to the river and the expansion of those travelers seeking a new life going West.

During this time, an additional 160 lots were surveyed south of what is currently our downtown and became known as South Montpelier. In the early 1870’s the first railroad was surveyed through Montpelier and was how the village became known as a railroad town. In April of 1875, the residents of Montpelier and South Montpelier petitioned to be incorporated into what is now known as the Village of Montpelier.

The railroad brought additional growth and for a long time, the rail yard consisted of many rail spurs that were used as a staging area for freight going East and West. There was also a roundhouse and turntable used to provide maintenance on the steam engines and rail cars. With the railroad, use of the river as power and the rich fertile farmland along with other manufacturing the village continued to grow. As with growth, so does improved shipment of freight and in the late 1970’s early 1980’s, the railroad no longer relied on Montpelier as a major hub and slowly left town.

Montpelier is also the birthplace of Paul Siple who was an Antarctic explorer and geographer. As an Eagle Scout he was invited by Admiral Richard Byrd to join him on 2 of his excursions. Paul Siple is known as the father of the Wind Chill factor that is used today.

As the second largest community in Williams County, Montpelier is a public power community that offers low electric rates to residents and manufacturing. Since 2003, our water distribution system has been awarded the Gold Medal for being the world’s best international tasting water 5 times. Our local government continues to lead the path forward just like our ancestors have done for improving and growing our village not only for our residents but also for continued business growth. With an industrial park shovel ready for new manufacturing to the walking trails along the St. Joe River and the abandoned Wabash Railroad bed. With an imagination when using both trails, one can hear the steam engine and the grist mill in operation.

Happy 200th Anniversary Williams County and proud that the Village of Montpelier is part of this wonderful county of the Great State of Ohio.

Congrats

On 200 Years Williams County

What Do You Enjoy About Williams County?

ALEIGHA HILLARD

KELSIE BUMB

KENNETH SMELTZER

JOEL SANEHOLTZ

MEARA MCGEE

KAIDA FEENEY

OLIVIA STEFANELLI

KAITLYN MILLS

RYLAN JOHANTGEN

JADA URIBES

MASON PHONEPHOMHOM

SHELBY LOCKWOOD

Pioneer Founded By A Real “Pioneer”

By: Richard Cooley

LOCAL HISTORIAN

Probably no village in Williams County is as closely associated with its founder as Pioneer is with Philetus W. Norris. In fact, Pioneer citizens once considered changing the town’s name to honor this pioneering individual.

Philetus Walter Norris was born near Palmyra, N.Y., on August 17, 1821. Norris developed his taste

for adventure by earning his first dime acting as a guide through the forest around Portage, N.Y., a service he continued until the removal of his family to Michigan.

Accompanied by his brotherin-law, Owen McCarty, Norris entered Bridgewater Township, Williams County, Ohio in 1838. In 1852 Norris built the first steam mill in the township along the east branch of the St. Joseph River.

P. W. Norris also acted for many years as land agent, selling land to local settlers, and many a northern Williams County deed reflects his name.

In 1845 Norris married Jane Cottrell, whose family lived about two miles east of Fayette, Ohio. In typical pioneer fashion, the young bride and groom traveled from Fulton County to their new home in what would become Pioneer.

Philetus cleared away the underbrush to make a trail wide enough to permit the passing of the wagon driven by his bride.

Philetus Norris was the first postmaster of the Pioneer post office, which was instituted April 16, 1851. Two and a half years later, on October 13, 1853, James Thompson surveyed the village of Pioneer for its sole proprietor, P.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 125

Continued: Pioneer Founded By A Real “Pioneer”

W. Norris. The town as originally surveyed contained 24 lots with only four streets: Mulberry, State, Cedar and Baubice. Baubice Street is the only street in all of Williams County’s platted towns to have been named for an Indian chief. Although the original village plat was located on the southeast quarter of Section 16 of Madison Township, the town now occupies the corners of sections 16, 17, 20 and 21.

Who named the village of Pioneer is lost to posterity, although it has been said that the village was named after the post office of the same name. A study of the character of Philetus Norris would make it no surprise to anyone that Norris probably named the village himself. Pioneer—a place located in the then far western wild country at the northern edge of the Great Black Swamp. How much more pioneering could one be?

In 1861 Norris served as a

scout for the 14th Ohio Volunteer Infantry Regiment in the Civil War and returned fresh from the battlefield to Williams County still sporting the bullet holes that had ripped through his leather pioneering garb.

Just before the war began, Norris also founded the Williams County Pioneers Association, which operated for only a short time. More than 20 years would pass before another pioneers’ association was formed in Williams County.

About 1870 Norris began making trips to the Missouri territory and Yellowstone. In 1877 he was appointed the second administrator to Yellowstone National Park.

Among his other accomplishments, Norris founded the now defunct village of Norris, which was located north of present day Detroit, Mich., and published his

CONTINUED ON PAGE 127

FOUNDER - (August 17, 1821) - Philetus Walter Norris, founder of the village of Pioneer, was born near Palmyra, N.Y. P.W. Norris was one of Williams County’s early movers and shakers. He emigrated to Bridgewater Township in 1838. Mr. Norris was appointed the first postmaster of the Pioneer Post Office when it was established on April 16, 1851. On October 13, 1853, Norris had the village of Pioneer surveyed. In 1861 Norris served as a scout for the 14th Ohio Volunteer Infantry Civil War Regiment. Just prior to the Civil War Norris helped create the Williams County Pioneers Association. In 1877 he was appointed the second administrator of Yellowstone National Park. Norris also founded the village of Norris, now part of Detroit, and published a book, “The Calumet of the Coteau,” in 1883. After leaving Yellowstone in 1882, Norris worked for the government ethnology department. He died while excavating for artifacts in Rocky Hill, Ky., on January 14, 1885. This vintage image of Philetus Walter Norris is from the Kevin Maynard collection.

Continued: Pioneer Founded By A Real “Pioneer”

book, “The Calumet of the Coteau,” in 1883.

After leaving Yellowstone in 1882, Norris worked for the government ethnology department. He died while digging for artifacts in Rocky Hill, Ky., on January 14, 1885. At the time of his death, Norris was preparing a manuscript for his second book, “A Journal of Rambles in the Far West.” The 1874 Williams County atlas also notes that P. W. Norris “proposes to write up and publish a faithful history of the early days of Williams County.” What a valuable and interesting book this would be today!

Norris was a highly respected man, and in 1893, eight years after his death and 40 years after Pioneer was surveyed, the Bryan Press newspaper carried this article: “Pioneer is circulating a petition which they will present to the legislature next winter, asking that the name of the town be

changed to ‘Norris.’ P. W. Norris was one of the early settlers of that village, thus the name suggested. The people of the sprightly, hustling village, one of the best in the county, feel that the present name is a little old-fashioned and suggestive of a back-number town, which is why they ask for a change. Within twelve months the town is very likely to take on its new name.” Why the proposed change failed is unknown.

Joseph Rogers is credited with operating the first store in Pioneer. Rogers is said to have brought $500 worth of stock goods, consisting of a general assortment of articles in demand at country stores at the time.

In 1856 Pioneer had a population of about 20 persons and contained only three log cabins, a board shanty and one frame barn. By 1867 the village had grown to more than 500 inhabitants and contained four dry goods stores,

FIRST RAILWAY CAR (December 3, 1903) - Pioneer welcomed the first car of the Toledo & Western Railway—Williams County’s first electric interurban railway. The T & W was incorporated in 1899, and began its westward extension from Toledo the following year. At Allen Junction between Sylvania and Berkey, the railway split. One branch was constructed north to Blissfield and Adrian, Mich., while the other continued west to Morenci, Mich., Fayette, passed between Alvordton and Primrose, and terminated at Pioneer. T & W interurban cars were similar to trolleys, with their electric motors powered through “kites” that touched an overhead power line. As highways and secondary roads improved and automobiles and trucks became more common, interurban railways struggled financially. The last round-trip T & W passenger service between Toledo and Pioneer took place on July 2, 1932. In 1933, the T & W discontinued freight service and abandoned its track from Allen Junction to Pioneer. This circa 1910 vintage image of a T & W interurban car at the Pioneer depot is from the Kevin Maynard collection.

three grocery stores, a hardware store, stove store, three boot and shoe stores, two blacksmith shops, a wagon shop, steam gristmill, three steam sawmills, two steam carding machines, a cloth dressing mill, cooper shop, two saddle and harness shops, three millinery shops, two tailors, two photographers, two hotels, two doctors, two churches and a schoolhouse, but no saloon or railroad.

About 1870, the Mansfield, Coldwater & Lake Michigan Railroad was surveyed through the village. Although the railroad was never built, this anticipated improvement sparked rapid growth in the community. A Pioneer correspondent to the Bryan Press wrote in 1871, “The prospect of a railroad has enlivened business wonderfully in this place. Improvements are springing up on all sides, new buildings being

constructed and old ones being improved.”

On March 6, 1876, a petition signed by 74 residents of Pioneer was presented to the Williams County Commissioners, asking for incorporation of the village. On June 5, 1876, the commissioners granted their request, allowing Pioneer citizens to create a municipal government, enact village ordinances and levy taxes. The first election of municipal officers was held April 2, 1877. A little known fact is Pioneer formed the 14th township of Williams County on May 9, 1979.

The first school in the Pioneer area was in the cabin of a Mr. Johnson as early as 1844. A wooden frame school was built in 1847 on the east side of what would later become South State Street. Just prior to the Civil

Continued: Pioneer Founded By A Real “Pioneer”

War, a wooden frame school was built southwest of the intersection of Cedar and Church streets. In 1889 a large brick school was completed next to the old building. This was used for classes until a new high school was erected in 1922-23 on Baubice Street. An addition was built in 1955, and the following year the Pioneer School District was consolidated with the Bridgewater Township and Kunkle schools to become the North Central School District. Grades six to eight were housed in the old Kunkle school until Dec. 22, 1993, when they were moved to the new school in Pioneer. The following night, Dec. 23, a new gymnasium was dedicated with a 58-54 Eagles basketball victory over the Edgerton Bulldogs. In 2016, the 1922 school building was razed and was replaced by a new 35,000-square-foot Grade 7-12 school building.

The history of Methodism in Pioneer is older than the village itself. The Methodist congregation at Pioneer was organized in the old schoolhouse in 1852, although preaching had been going on as early as 1848. In 1859-60 the congregation built a wooden frame church at the southwest corner of State and West Church streets. This building was replaced by the large brick church, dedicated Feb. 1, 1880, which was razed in 2000. The present church on Baubice Street was dedicated December 14, 1975.

The Pioneer Church of the Nazarene was started in 1941 at 305 Cedar Street. In 1971 a 30’ x 30’ addition was started on the rear of the church. In 1976 ground was broken for the present facility one mile north of town, which was formally dedicated July 10, 1977.

Other churches known to have existed in Pioneer over the years

TOWN BAND - In the late 1800s to early 1900s, nearly every northwest Ohio community had a “town band” that provided musical entertainment on Saturday nights and during community events. The 1882 Goodspeed History of Williams County states that the Pioneer Cornet Band “was organized in the autumn of 1879, and the first set of instruments was purchased later in the same year. In July 1880, the old set, at an estimated value of $91, was given in part payment for a splendid new set, which cost $465. In April 1882, a band fair was conducted for an entire week and $216 was realized, which amount was used in purchasing uniforms for the members. Subscriptions have been solicited and obtained from the citizens to defray the expense incurred in securing the new instruments. For the past two years, the citizens of the town have been regaled with music sweeter than that of Orpheus.” References to the Pioneer band have been found in local newspapers as late as 1913; the date that the band dissolved is uncertain. This circa 1910 vintage image of the Pioneer Cornet Band is from the Kevin Maynard collection.

include both Radical and Liberal United Brethren churches, Baptist and Evangelical Mennonite.

No town in the 1800s would have been complete without live entertainment consisting of the village band. The Pioneer band was formed in 1879 and instruments were purchased the same year. In fact, the founder of Bryan’s famous Fountain City Band, John Connin, was the initial instructor of the Pioneer band. The Pioneer band, in its day, became a well-appreciated organization and received excellent support from the village. The band was alive and well for many years, but the history of its final demise is not known.

History, until now, has forgotten to record a disastrous event that occurred in March 1890. An event recorded as “the most destructive fire that ever occurred in a village in Williams County outside of Bryan” visited Pioneer. Nearly half of Pioneer’s downtown wooden store buildings were de-

stroyed by a fire that was believed to have begun in the village blacksmith shop on the west side of State Street. Although considered disastrous, the fire was a blessing in disguise, as many of the old wooden buildings were replaced by brick buildings. This was the true beginning of “modern” Pioneer.

No village had hopes of thriving very long without a railroad in the 1800s. The village founder, Philetus Norris, realized this fact very early. In 1856 Norris fervently attempted to obtain the Cincinnati & Mackinaw Railroad through or very near Pioneer. An 1857 Williams County map shows the proposed railroad running through Bryan, West Jefferson and Pioneer. The “Panic of 1857” postponed the project, however, and when the Cincinnati, Jackson & Mackinaw Railroad was finally constructed in 1887, it was built through Bryan, Pulaski, West Unity and Alvordton instead.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 130

Continued: Pioneer Founded By A Real “Pioneer”

In the 1870s came Pioneer’s hope and disappointment over the proposed Mansfield, Coldwater & Lake Michigan Railroad. Parts of the railroad right-of-way were actually graded and ties piled along the route in Williams County, but financial and legal problems got the best of this project.

Pioneer would not realize a railroad until December 3, 1903, when the Toledo & Western Railway—Williams County’s first electric railroad—arrived. The arrival of the first car was cause for a grand celebration in Pioneer, with a crowd estimated at 2,000-2,500 people and businesses and schools closed for the day.

After the T. & W. abandoned the track from Allen Junction to Pioneer in 1933, a group of Pioneer and Fayette citizens, under the direction of Earl S. Snyder, purchased the tracks between their two towns and created the Pioneer and Fayette Railroad. The P. & F.

Railroad began operation over the old T. & W. line on September 2, 1933. At the time it was believed to be the shortest railroad line in the United States. The company ceased operating trains in the early 1940s but continued with trucks under the P. & F. name until 1992.

Over the years, the face of Pioneer has changed. What is left of the Joy Hotel still remains, as does the home built by J. F. Hadley in 1884. The home built by G. R. Joy, who married Norris’ widow, still stands as does the beautiful home built by P. W. Norris. Many ornate and historic homes adorn the village streets.

Despite all the changes made in the past century and a half, the one thing that has remained a constant since the inception of Pioneer is the village inhabitants’ unique sense of pride in their hometown. Only those residing in Pioneer can say they are from Pioneer, not just visiting!

BASEBALL - Williams County residents have enjoyed playing and watching baseball games since the 1860s. Nearly every town and country crossroads fielded a team to participate in the national pastime. The Pioneer baseball team is shown in this undated vintage image from the Kevin Maynard collection. Those in the historic photograph are identified as first row: Leland Dietz, mascot; middle rows: Manager Dr. L.A. Beard, Percy Grannis, Jud Weeder, Harvey Crum, Mel Weeder, Hugh Snow and Bill Lonabarger; top row: Smith and Fay Snow, Ross Stickney and Rex Beard.

Our Vision

To inspire more people to recognize those who gained our nation’s independence and to connect with history themselves through DAR service projects

Who We Are

The DAR is one of the largest women’s lineage based, patriotic nonprofits in the world, with 185,000 members and approximately 3,000 local chapters in the Untied States and abroad. Since our founding in 1890, close to one million members have carried out our mission.

We are an organization both steeped in history and forward thinking - a vibrant service organization recognized around the world.

The women who make up our membership are varied and come from all walks of life, yet we share a common bond of tracing our ancestry back

to those who helped gain our nation’s independence.

We are committed to honoring our nation’s past by serving our communities today.

Our Mission

To promote historic preservation, education and patriotism.

Our History

Founded in 1890, the DAR is committed to preserving the memory and spirit of those who contributed to American independence. The four women who founded the DAR helped to form the DAR’s lasting mission of promoting three key areas: historic preservation, education and patriotism.

Although our founding principles remain true today, the DAR has evolved to accommodate today’s women and serve contemporary communities domestically and abroad.

Scout David Williams Chapter (Pioneer, Ohio)

-Organized April 16th 1938-

Information brochures are available at the Montpelier Library

Chapter regent Linda Stanek at 269-720-1055 or Laura K arL at 419-630-0069

Village Of Pioneer

- Mayor Ed Kidston -

As the great people of Pioneer prepare in 2024 to celebrate 175 years, we want to pause and congratulate Williams County for their 200th Anniversary. Williams County is the Northern most county in Ohio and Pioneer takes great pride in being our county gateway to the State of Michigan.

Currently serving as Mayor of Pioneer for my seventh (4 year) term, I am extremely proud of the progress Pioneer has nurtured and realized for its citizens, business, and industry. Growth and prosperity can be found on every corner of our village.

Pioneer is one of five Public Power Towns located within Williams County. As a community owned electric supplier, we have built together a robust and dependable system with rates lower than any-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 131

Continued: Village Of Pioneer (Mayor)

where in N.W. Ohio

Pioneer water and sewer is also community owned and helps serve as a growth engine for many of our industries. All the water and sewer our residents need for a simple base fee of $70.00 per month with no meters.

Over the past 30 years Pioneer has installed a new water treatment plant, .6 MG water tower, new large water mains and fire hydrants to improve our fire rating as well as made numerous improvements including pump stations and lagoon expansions at the wastewater facilities. Pioneer water and sewer is built for growth and growth is happening almost on a daily basis. Refuse is also handled by the Village on a weekly basis for a maximum rate of only $14.00 per month.

Pioneer’s substantial growth and industry base has attracted many new businesses to our community. Living in Pioneer you have all the basic needs of life including but not limited to: Gas, groceries, banking, restaurants including food delivery to your home, hair grooming for yourself and your pets, adult beverages, sandwich shops, keeping yourself fit and your mode of transportation in good working order Pioneer through hard work by its dedicated personnel take pride knowing our low 1% income tax is the lowest in the county.

Pioneer parks, and cemetery are maintained without additional taxes. Pioneer 24/7 police and fire protection is also provided without additional taxes. Pioneer does not have additional charges for storm sewer and yet a very large percentage of our streets are modern curbed and paved.

North Central Schools provides a quality education and in 2024 is also the lowest taxed district in Williams County

There is an old saying the only sure things in life is death and taxes. After over two decades in local government, I would like to add one more item to the list. One more sure thing is that government and educating our children, even with outstanding management, will cost more this year than it did last year.

There are only two ways to pay for this increased cost. Growth and prosperity or more taxes on the people. In Pioneer, we work hard to follow the path of growth and prosperity, keeping the cost of living for our residents as low as possible. In fact, giving rebates back to the residents whenever our general fund can afford it.

Pioneer is growing and prospering in year 175. We congratulate Williams County for number 200 and look forward to being a member community of a great county until the end of time.

Historic Local Tidbit

FIRST BRYAN “TERM OF COURT”

The first term of court in Bryan convened in a log building on April 19, 1841. Aaron Bennett, who served as a juror in the log courthouse, said he could look out the windows and see deer in the woods surrounding the building. As there was no jury room provided in the courthouse, jurors convened in the woods and sat on logs while deliberating their verdicts.

What Do You Enjoy About Williams County?

ASHLYNN MARTIN

COHEN MEYERS

KATELYN BALSER

DARBI STEWART

ALEXA DOMINGUEZ

LILLY MCMILLEN

JONATHON HICKS

GRECIA DOMINGUEZ

MARTHA MARMOLEJO

SAMI CUMMINS

PAIGE OXENDER

JOEY BURT

Stryker Founded As A Railroad Town

By: Kevin Maynard LOCAL HISTORIAN

Stryker was surveyed on September 19, 1853, beside the proposed Michigan Southern & Northern Indiana (now Norfolk Southern) Railroad - by John H. Sargent, Epaphras L. Barber and Jesse McCart. Jesse McCart (sometimes spelled McArt) was a farmer who owned land on the

east side of what is now Defiance Street, which was included in the original survey of the town.

Little is known of John Sargent other than he and Mr. Barber were civil engineers from Cleveland working on the survey and construction of the railroad. One report states Mr. Sargent later served as engineer for the City of Cleveland. Sargent and Barber also founded

the village of Wauseon in Fulton County and Mr. Sargent, acting alone, founded Edgerton—all of these towns being located next to the proposed railroad.

Epaphras Lord Barber was born at Cleveland, Ohio, on December 16, 1830 to Epaphras L. and Jerusha T. (Sargent) Barber. As his mother’s maiden name was Sargent and both men were from

Watch Us Grow

419-877-3833

www.SpringfieldTownshipPark.com

info@springfieldtownshippark.com

206 N Defiance Street PO Box 148 Stryker, Ohio 43557

For more than 30 years, the Springfield Township Park has been a fun place to play and gather. Come play ball, enjoy the playround or batting cages, walk the new trails or meet with family and friends in the Shelter House.

Come see the Concession Stands open in 2024 with new public restrooms. More details about our upcoming memorial patio and logo contest to be announced soon.

dogs?

Cleveland, there is a good possibility he and John Sargent were related. Epaphras spent his youth on his father’s farm and when he was 18 he joined an engineering group and worked on the survey of the Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati Railroad, gaining valuable experience. In 1853 Mr. Barber moved to Delta, being employed by

CONTINUED ON PAGE 137

We are proud to announce the development of the CARL SITO MEMORIAL DOG PARK

This new space will include fenced and open areas for dogs to run and play, and open space and trails through the wooded area along the Tiffin River. Coming Soon!

Celebration)

Building community, together

Continued: Stryker Founded As A Railroad Town

the Michigan Southern & Northern Indiana Railroad, which was being built west from Toledo through Fulton and Williams counties. Epaphras worked for the M. S. & N. I. until 1856 when he quit to devote his time to selling real estate in the towns he had helped found. He volunteered and attained the rank of colonel during the Civil War. After the war he concentrated on business and banking and died at Wauseon on April 3, 1899.

Stryker was named after John Stryker. Mr. Stryker was born in Orange, N.J., on December 7, 1808. John’s father died when he was six, and in 1819 his family moved to Whitesboro, N.Y., where his mother’s sister lived. John was working as a store clerk when he began studying law with a prominent local attorney. In 1829 he was admitted to practice law and moved to Rome, N.Y., where he opened a law office. John soon

became involved in politics and in 1835 was elected to the New York General Assembly. In 1847 he gave up his law practice to concentrate on railroad enterprises, including the Michigan Southern & Northern Indiana. He remained active in the business until he suffered a stroke in 1867, leaving his left side paralyzed. Afterward he lived in semiretirement and died April 30, 1885 in Rome, N.Y., at the age of 77.

Why was Stryker located where it is? In the 1850s, roads were very bad, not like those of today. Where roads had been cut out of the dense forest in Williams County, they were little more than dirt wagon trails; they were not graveled or ditched. Much of the time they were seas of mud, making travel difficult if not impossible. Roads were not plowed in the winter, with large drifts sometimes blocking the way. Of course, the automobile did not yet exist, so

MILES HOUSE - In 1869

James A. Miles opened the Miles House hotel at the northeast corner of Stryker’s Defiance and South Depot streets, operating it for about 40 years. In 1874, the Bryan Press newspaper reported that the Miles House’s “tables are laden with the best the markets afford and a card hangs in the office with 13 distinct rules, the observance of which prevents much of the barroom loafing usually so common to village taverns.” The hotel building later housed a feed mill, public auctions, automobile storage, a hatchery, and a machine shop. The historic structure was razed in 1960 to make room for Rolland and Delilah Wyse’s Stryker Dairy Isle/Polly’s Drive-In. This drawing of the Miles House is from the 1874 Illustrated and Historical Atlas of Williams County.

travel by horsepower or on foot was the common way of getting from one place to another.

Compared with this, railroad travel was much faster and easier. Railroads provided a means to get goods to a town cheaply and to export farm products and manufactured goods to larger cities.

People like Sargent, Barber, McCart and others privy to a proposed railroad’s route would often purchase land about every 10 miles and survey town lots next to the railroad. This made the villages far enough away from other local towns to allow them to grow. This happened along the route of every railroad constructed in Wil-

liams County in the 1800s. In the case of the M. S. & N. I. Railroad, Bryan was the only town in Williams County on the railroad’s proposed route. Stryker and Edgerton were both surveyed about 10 miles in each direction from Bryan on the railroad. Edgerton and Stryker can both, therefore, be considered true railroad towns—if the railroad wouldn’t have been constructed through Williams County, they never would have existed.

In 1853 Chester Blinn and William Letcher, who ran a general store in West Unity, took a contract to grade a portion of the proposed M. S. & N. I. Railroad. In

PAGE

The Stryker Area Heritage Council

Meetings 2nd Thursday Of The Month

7 p.m. at the Stryker Depot

The former New York Central passenger depot in Stryker was built in 1900 and is on the National Register of Historic Places

Continued: Stryker Founded As A Railroad Town

1854 they opened a branch store in Stryker, the first store in town.

By January 1, 1855, trains were running on the new railroad and Kennedy’s hotel was in business on the northwest corner of Lynn and Defiance streets.

Stryker grew rapidly after it was surveyed because of its rail facilities—the first in Williams County. The town grew so quickly that the need for a municipal government soon became apparent. On March 2, 1863, a petition signed by 59 Stryker residents was presented to the Williams County Commissioners, asking for incorporation of the village. On May 2 another petition, signed by 36 residents, was presented which claimed the proposed incorporation, “would necessarily increase the taxes on those residing within [Stryker’s] limits beyond what they are able or willing to bear and would be an injury to the people rather than a

benefit in view of the heavy taxes with which we are already burdened.” On May 18, 13 more signatures were added by addendum to the original petition, and the county commissioners granted the petition on June 2, 1863.

In August 1863 Stryker’s first municipal election was held with William Sheridan Jr. elected mayor, John S. Kingsland, recorder, and John Barnhart, S. N. Webb, E. P. Willard and C. E. Woodworth councilmen. The mayoral form of government continued in Stryker until 1978 when Robert Eble was hired as the first village administrator.

With the possible exception of the first schoolhouse, all of Stryker’s schools have stood on the same piece of ground. The first school was a small log building that was standing when the town was laid out. In 1857 Stryker and Springfield Township erected a

STRYKER MINERAL SPRINGS - In the spring of 1861 a group of Stryker citizens organized a company to drill for oil. A well was bored about 70 feet deep. However, the company’s equipment was inadequate and the Civil War erupted, leading to abandonment of the enterprise. During the winter of 1864-65, a new firm--the Stryker Oil Company--was organized at Boston; in the spring of 1865 a derrick and steam engine began drilling. On April 5, 1865 oil and gas were struck. The company continued drilling two years until the well reached a depth of 850 feet. Too little gas and oil were found to make the enterprise profitable, so the well was abandoned. Mineralized water began spouting out of the well and by 1870 a local newspaper reported, “hundreds of invalids are using it and praising its medicinal qualities.” In 1883, a group of local citizens organized the Stryker Mineral Springs Company and built a two-story bathhouse at the northwest corner of Center and Curtis streets. People traveled to Stryker seeking mineral bath treatments to cure a variety of ailments. On July 26, 1900, the bathhouse was destroyed by fire; fifteen years later, J.A. Gardner erected this two-story bathhouse on the site. By 1950, demand for mineral water decreased, and the bathhouse was converted into a nursing home. This business closed in the late 1960s, and the former bathhouse was razed in 1977. This vintage image of the Mineral Springs bathhouse is from the Kevin Maynard collection.

two-story frame building on the site of the present school, which cost more than $1,600. The town continued to grow and by the end of the Civil War, this building had become too small. A contract was let in 1868 to Wheelock, McKay and Underhill of Fort Wayne for a new brick school at a cost of $11,500, excluding furniture. The cornerstone of the building was laid September 19, 1868, but it was not finished until October 1869. An addition was built on the west side of this school building in 1886, and it burned down on December 9, 1902.

The old elementary school building was built in 1903-04 to replace the burned school. In 1922, a new high school was

completed and in 1956 an addition was built, connecting the two buildings. In 1979 the old elementary school was razed and the existing elementary building, erected on the same site, was dedicated December 14, 1980. In 2008, a 48,981-square-foot Junior-Senior High School was completed. The project included renovation of the 1956 and 1980 school buildings. The 1922 high school building was razed in 2009.

The first church built in Stryker was St. John’s Catholic Church, a wooden frame church, which stood on the northwest corner of Church and Center streets. A Methodist church was soon afterward built on the south side of Church Street,

CONTINUED ON PAGE 140

HELLER CREATIONS and MODIFICATIONS

Continued: Stryker Founded As A Railroad Town

east of Center Street.

Other congregations that have existed in Stryker over the years include Radical and Liberal United Brethren, (French) Presbyterian, Baptist, Universalist, German Reformed, Disciples of Christ, German Methodist and Reformed.

Not too many years after the town was laid out, it was noticed that gas escaped from local wells, leading people to believe there was gas and oil underground. In the spring of 1861 a company composed of Stryker citizens was formed to drill for oil. A well was bored about 70 feet, but the equipment was inadequate and the Civil War broke out, leading to the abandonment of the enterprise.

In 1865 the Bryan Democrat reported, “The shaft filled with water, but the escape of gas, strongly impregnated with the odor of petroleum, furnished a theme for the curious and finally led to the formation of the present company.” Dur-

ing the winter of 1864-65, a new company was formed at Boston, called the Stryker Oil Company, and in the spring of 1865 a derrick and steam engine were set up to drill. On April 5 they hit the first oil and gas. The company continued operations for the next two years until the well was 850 feet deep. Too little gas and oil were found to make it profitable, so the well was abandoned. Water began spouting up from the well and by 1870 a local newspaper reported, “hundreds of invalids are using it and praising its medicinal qualities.” In 1883, a group of local citizens organized the Stryker Mineral Springs Company and built a two-story bathhouse at the northwest corner of Center and Curtis streets.

People came from all over seeking mineral bath treatments to cure a variety of illnesses. On July 26, 1900, the bathhouse burned down

CONTINUED ON PAGE 141

FIRST FIRE DEPARTMENT - (April 5, 1875): Stryker Village Council adopted an ordinance creating the town’s first fire department, a hook and ladder company. The Council agreed to “make an appropriation sufficient to supply said Company...with wagon, ladders, hooks, buckets, ropes and other articles necessary” and to procure a suitable building to store “all fire implements.” Later that year, Council approved the purchase of a “No. 1 Little Giant Chemical Fire Engine” and appointed Dr. Danforth P. Aldrich as Stryker’s first fire chief. The village later purchased a hand-pumped fire engine and by 1911, acquired this horse-drawn steam-powered fire pumper. The building behind the steam pumper was the village hall, erected in 1876 at the northwest corner of Defiance and South Depot streets. The first floor was occupied by the mayor’s office and fire equipment storage and the second story was used as a fireman’s hall. This vintage image is from the WCPL Huffman Photographic Archives.

Continued: Stryker Founded As A Railroad Town

and was not rebuilt until circa 1915. By about 1950 the demand for mineral water declined and the bathhouse was converted into a nursing home. This business closed in the late 1960s, and the building was torn down in 1977.

Apparently the first railroad depot in Stryker was a small freight depot on the south side of the tracks. In 1876, a large wooden depot was built on the north side of the tracks. This depot’s roof caught fire from a spark from a locomotive, and it burned down on March 22, 1900. The existing depot was erected that same year. Passenger service from the depot was discontinued about 1956 and freight service was discontinued on Feb. 15, 1960.

In 1975 Marnie and Buzz Osborn purchased the depot and operated the Whistle Stop, an antiques and collectibles store, for a

time. In 1985 local industrialist and philanthropist Erie Sauder purchased the historic depot and donated it to the Village of Stryker. In the summer of 1989 a formal dedication of the refurbished depot, housing the police department and council chambers, was held. On August 7, 1989, the depot was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. The historic structure now houses the Stryker Area Heritage Council’s Heritage Center.

In 1905 the Toledo & Indiana Railway was extended to Bryan through Stryker. The T. & I. was an electric railroad, using coaches similar to trolley cars. The track ran down Lynn Street, and a small wooden depot was built on the south side of East Lynn Street. A large electric power plant and car barn were built on the west side

CONTINUED ON PAGE 142

EARLY ELECTRIC TRAVEL

-

The Toledo and Indiana Railway was an electric interurban trolley line designed to connect Toledo with Indianapolis and Chicago, but its rails were never extended further than West High Street in Bryan. When the first T & I interurban car entered Bryan on June 1, 1905, it was greeted by several hundred enthusiastic citizens. The railway provided the latest in accommodations for travelers, and its beautiful coaches were equipped with electric motors that allowed them to travel at speeds of up to 65 miles per hour. The T & I schedule was more convenient than the Lake Shore Railroad, and it became a popular means of transportation. As years passed, improved roads and vehicles decreased the T & I’s once profitable passenger and freight business. The T & I’s last passenger car traveled to Bryan and returned to Stryker on October 15, 1939. A T & I car pauses at the Stryker Depot on East Lynn Street in this undated image from the Williams County Public Library Huffman Photographic Archives.

Continued: Stryker Founded As A Railroad Town

of Stryker near the Tiffin River. The T. & I. Railroad ceased operations in 1939 and the Ferro Corporation and A. Schulman plants occupied the old car barn for many years. The power plant still stands west of Ferro.

In 1862, Von Behren & Shoner started a tannery on the east side of North Defiance Street in the area now occupied by the fire department and library. Three years later Von Behren bought Mr. Shoner’s interest in the business and soon after sold a half-interest to H. G. Shaffer. In the fall of 1866 Von Behren & Shaffer built a sawmill and the following year began making boat oars, spokes and other wooden products in addition to the tannery. Over the years this business became one of the largest manufacturing concerns in Williams County, employing up to

70 men. The factory burned down on July 16, 1926, and was moved to Archbold because a facility was available there to move into immediately, saving the time and expense of rebuilding.

What hampered Stryker’s growth more than anything appears to be the fires that plagued the town for years. The downtown burned several times as well as the depot, mineral springs, two ho tels, two sawmills, a gristmill, the school, Paul’s Harness Shop and the oar factory (twice). The town now has a municipal water system and volunteer fire department and has suffered no major fire losses for many years.

Stryker has settled into slow but steady growth with a good in dustrial base, historic and modern homes, an excellent school, public library and parks.

Doug Cargle, Owner

Village Of Stryker

- Mayor Joey Beck -

As the Williams County Commissioners prepare to celebrate the 200-year anniversary of Williams County, I would like to take a moment as Mayor of the Village of Stryker, to reflect on Stryker’s rich history in the County.

The Village of Stryker was surveyed on September 19, 1853, beside the proposed Northern Indiana Railroad. Stryker was the first Williams County community with railroad facilities, providing rapid, inexpensive transportation of raw materials, agricultural products and finished goods, and spurring the Village’s early growth. As a result, Stryker quickly eclipsed Evansport and Lockport. Stryker’s first industries included sawmills, a gristmill, tannery, harness manufacturing, boat oar factory and cheese factory. These industries converted agricultural products, timber, and other local resources into finished goods, many of which were shipped to distant points via the railroad.

From 1905 to 1939 Stryker was the hub of the Toledo & Indiana Railway. The T. & I.’s interurban cars were similar to trolley cars, pow-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 144

ered by an arm or “kite” extending from the car to an overhead power line. The T. & I. paralleled the New York Central, but provided more convenient schedules, more stops and was less expensive than the steam railroad’s passenger service. Stryker was home to the T. & I. power plant, which supplied electricity to many Northwest Ohio communities, and the Company’s interurban car maintenance and repair shop.

Today, Stryker is still known as a railroad town where agriculture

and agribusiness remain the most important components of the local economy. The Village of Stryker remains stable with several industries as well as many businesses that provide great customer service.

We are a family oriented community with a great school system, a strong police force and fire department.

As Mayor and lifelong resident of Stryker I am proud of our Community that has played an important role in the history of Williams County.

Historic Local Tidbit COURTHOUSE BELL

The bell was used to call local citizens to meetings in the courthouse and sometimes doubled as a fire alarm. The bell tolled for more than half an hour when the news of President James Garfield’s assassination reached Bryan in 1881.

What Do You Enjoy About Williams County? Stryker High School Students

EVAN DICKINSON

KENNEDY MORR

LAURA LEUPP

ZACHARY THOMAS

FRANCES MUSSER

HAYLEE PARSONS

TAYLORE RETHMEL

EMMALEE FULK

JADANCE BUSTAMANTE

DANIEL STECK III

MATTIAS CHEESEMAN

HANNAH ATKINSON

West Unity Named After Pleasant Unity, Pennsylvania

By: Richard Cooley LOCAL HISTORIAN

West Unity lies at the crossroads of the old Toledo-Angola Pike and a supposed Indian trail said to have run from Fort Wayne, Ind., to Detroit, Mich. The village was founded by two early Brady Township pioneers, John Rings and William Smith.

John Rings was born September 2, 1804, in Westmoreland County, Pa. In December 1831

he married Anna Brinker, and the couple had four children. In 1835 Rings moved his family to the wilderness of Williams County and settled on land now partially occupied by West Unity. Five years after his move to the dark forests of northwest Ohio, Mr. Rings suffered the loss of his seven-year-old daughter Catherine, who died August 15, 1840. Catherine’s death is said to have been the first in West

Unity, and she was probably the first burial in Rings Cemetery. Ten days after the death of his daughter, John’s 34-year-old wife Anna died. He later married Rachel Hanzey, and they had six children. James Hagerman, a Revolutionary War veteran, also died and was buried at Rings Cemetery that same year.

Together with William L. Smith, Rings hired county surveyor Miller Arrowsmith to sur-

vey 28 lots in Sections 5 and 8 of Brady Township on June 14, 1842. The tiny village plat contained five streets: North, High, Main, Madison and Jackson. The new village was dubbed West Unity after Pleasant Unity, a town, which still exists in Westmoreland County, Pa.

Village cofounder William L. Smith died on June 6, 1846,

Employees (left to right): Dan Short, Randy Mahlman (Street/Sewer Supervisor), Josh Fritsch (Village Administrator), Tim Allion & Don Brown

Office Staff (left to right): Aubrey Jennings (Deputy Clerk) & Sarah Higdon (Fiscal Officer)

Continued: West Unity Named After ...

aged 42 years and one day, and was buried in Rings Cemetery. Beyond the fact that Smith originally came from Richland County, Ohio, little is known about him. A short note in the 1882 Goodspeed history of Williams County says, “The first schoolhouse [in Brady Township] was built in Section 5, and the first school taught by William L. Smith.”

On September 28, 1842, John Rings became the first postmaster of the West Unity post office, serving until 1850. Rings was also appointed the first justice of the peace in Brady Township on June 28, 1836, and was reappointed twice before his death on April 18, 1855. During his 20 years in Williams County, John Rings had been elected county commissioner in 1837 and county treasurer in 1852 and 1854, a position he held at the time of

his death.

The 1882 Goodspeed history of Williams County states, “The first lot sold [in West Unity] was Lot Number 1 and was sold for $50. The first frame building was erected on this lot. It was built by Henry Cline and used as a residence.” The history is wrong according to actual legal records. Lots 25 and 26 were the first lots sold and were sold by William L. Smith to William S. Megarah for $20 each on April 19, 1842. This is the first documented case in Williams County where lots were sold before the village site was surveyed and recorded. Lot Number 1 was sold by Jared Parker to Jacob Cline for $20 on June 8, 1847.

Henry S. Kunkle came to Williams County in 1844 in search of his brother John. His first stop was at the fledgling village of West Unity. In 1901 Kunkle

FIRST SCHOOL - West Unity’s first school was a log structure near Rings Cemetery. The log school was replaced by a wooden frame building on the southwest corner of Jackson and Main streets. In 1854 the schoolhouse shown in this historic photograph was constructed at the southeast corner of School and Church streets. The contractor was Rev. George Money. The two-story wooden frame building was 52 feet by 32 feet and was topped with a belfry. In 1878 West Unity’s first brick school was completed on a hill west of South High Street at a cost of about $10,000. This facility was destroyed by fire in November 1897. In September 1900 an imposing $19,000 brick and limestone building opened for classes on the site. A high school was completed in 1921 next to the 1900 building. In 1980 the 1900 school building was razed. On January 4, 2010, the Millcreek-West Unity School District’s new $20.7 million K-12 facility on West Jackson Street opened for classes. Visible on the left in this circa 1874 vintage image is the West Unity Church of God, located at the northwest corner of Church and School streets. This brick house of worship was formally dedicated on January 4, 1874. This photograph of the 1854 West Unity school is from the Kevin Maynard collection.

recalled that he stopped at the part grocery/part hotel of William Cline and asked where West Unity was. The reply came, “Why, this is West Unity!” The village at that time contained the mighty sum of three buildings!

This same year West Unity vied to become a county seat town. On October 25, 1844, a notice was given to the Defiance Democrat newspaper stating that a petition would be presented to the Ohio Legislature at its next session to create a new county called “Windsor.” This county was to be formed by taking the two northern rows of townships in Williams County and the west half of what is now Fulton County. The notice was sent from West

Unity, which was near the center of the proposed new county and likely to be its county seat. However, this venture turned out to be wishful thinking. The people of West Unity continued trying to become a county seat until Fulton County was formed in 1850, taking land from the east sides of Brady and Millcreek townships in Williams County. This placed West Unity as close to the eastern border as Bryan was to the southern boundary, dashing its hopes.

Despite the lack of a railroad, the growth of West Unity was phenomenal. In 1850 the town’s first newspaper, the

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Equal Rights, reported that West Unity contained “six quite extensive dry goods stores, and a seventh to be opened in a very few days, one drugstore, together with every variety of mechanics; one steam sawmill, two public houses, one printing office, etc.” The town numbered almost 400 souls in the 1850 census. West Unity also laid claim to establishing the first Masonic lodge in Williams County, Superior Lodge No. 179, in August 1849.

In 1853 West Unity claimed two taverns, six dry good stores, a drugstore, three groceries, steam foundry and engine shop, two steam sawmills, steam gristmill being erected, hardware store, printing office, saddlers, shoemakers, tanners, gunsmiths, blacksmiths, carriage shop and two churches under construction. The population was about 600—increasing 50%

in only three years.

Early Unityites had a jovial nature as witnessed by John Connin, founder of the famous Bryan City Band. Connin recalled that about 1854-55 the band was invited to play at a celebration in West Unity. One of the band instruments, which was broken and wired together, squawked so badly that one of the village inhabitants offered a chicken to take the place of the instrument!

In 1858 the Union Agricultural Society of Williams, Fulton and Defiance Counties was organized at West Unity and a fair held that fall on the south side of East Jackson Street. Fairs were held annually until 1862, when none was held because of the outbreak of the Civil War. The lease on the fairgrounds called for a fair to be held every year or the grounds reverted to the own-

SERVICE ABOVE SELF

OLD WEST UNITY, OHIO STRUCTURE -

The Village of West Unity moved its offices from 118 West Jackson Street to 224 West Jackson Street. In 1893, the Ohio Legislature authorized West Unity to borrow $6,000 to construct a town hall and fire station. In 1893, the village purchased the west 44 feet of the lot on the northeast corner of High and Jackson streets as a building site. In July 1894, village council awarded the bid for constructing the town hall and fire station to William Grim and E.E. Mallory at a cost of $5,337. The building was occupied by February 1895. In 1962, structure’s second story was removed. In the summer of 2016, the village acquired the former West Unity Medical Clinic at 224 West Jackson Street to house its police department and administrative offices. The 3,408-square-foot, one-story building, constructed in 2002, was purchased for $100,000. On December 8, 2016, West Unity Village Council convened for the last time in the 1895 town hall. The village offices were moved to the new municipal building on December 28. Council held its first meeting in the new municipal building on January 12, 2017. On July, 13, 2017, village council accepted Andrew Heisey’s $15,000 bid for purchase of the former village office building at 118 West Jackson Street. This circa 1910 vintage image of the 1895 West Unity town hall is from the Kevin Maynard collection.

er, and he exercised his option when no fair was held in 1862, ending fairs at West Unity.

On June 2, 1865, a petition signed by 75 residents of West Unity was presented to the Williams County Commissioners asking for incorporation of the village. On June 4 the commissioners granted their request, allowing West Unity citizens to create a municipal government, enact village ordinances and levy taxes. The first municipal election was held February 24, 1866, which resulted in H. H. Peppard being elected mayor; C. W. Skinner, clerk; and Dr. G. W. Finch, Dr. J. N. Runnion, J. M. Webb,

George Rings (John’s son) and J. Cline the first council members.

Mary Hutchison Thomas wrote a history of the West Unity area schools in 1984. Mary wrote the first school at West Unity was a log cabin located at the northeast edge of the village nearly across from Rings Cemetery. The next school was a wooden frame building on the southwest corner of Jackson and Main streets. In 1854 a new school was built on the corner of School and Church streets and remained in use until 1878.

In 1878 the third school (and

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the first of brick construction) was built at a cost of nearly $10,000. This building stood on the west side of High Street, north of Lynn Street. This building was destroyed by fire in November 1897.

In September 1900 a new school was completed, but during the interim period, the graduating classes of 1898 and 1899 attended school above a village store.

In 1917, parts of Brady, Millcreek and Jefferson townships were consolidated with the West Unity School District. The following year, voters approved construction of a new high school, which was completed in 1921 near the 1900 school building.

On April 4, 2008, the Millcreek-West Unity Local School District broke ground for a new $20.7 million Kindergarten through Grade 12 school on the south side of U.S. 20A at the west edge of West Unity. The new K-12 facility opened for classes on January 4, 2010.

A sign of the times, each village desired its own musical entertainment via a town band. A brass band is said to have been organized in West Unity in 1862 and flourished for about two years. In 1881 the band was

In 1955 the Alvordton and West Unity school districts were merged. In 1960 a $456,000 gymnasium addition was erected. In 1980 the 1900 school building was razed, and groundbreaking ceremonies for a new elementary school were held March 12, 1981. The following year, this fine new facility was occupied.

RAILROAD DISCONTINUED - The Cincinnati Northern Railroad discontinued its passenger and mail service from Van Wert north to Michigan. The Cincinnati Northern Railroad stretched from Franklin, Ohio, to Jackson, Mich., and was completed through Williams County in 1887. By 1936, the Cincinnati Northern operated two passenger trains daily that stopped at Bryan, Pulaski, West Unity and Alvordton in Williams County. In March 1936, the Bryan Democrat newspaper reported, “About 10 years ago this road changed from the usual type of passenger train to a diesel car, which has been operated since. Passengers have decreased and at the same time service has decreased so that it has been impossible to go from Jackson to Cincinnati in a day. There were many protests when the road attempted to drop these trains some time ago, and the commission did not grant permission then. The more recent effort has been successful. The road claimed that while its freight business is profitable, its passenger business is not, and contended that other transportation is readily available for passengers, and that the postal needs of communities may be served by other ways.” This circa 1910 vintage image of Cincinnati Northern Railroad passengers at its West Unity depot is from the Kevin Maynard collection.

known as the West Unity Cornet Band and was incorporated in 1882. This group eventually disbanded due to many of the members having moved away. Another village band was organized in 1895 by D. E. Perkey, who also organized the high school band in 1933.

Although the Junction Railroad was proposed to be built through West Unity as early as 1852, it was not until late in 1887 that the town’s first railroad, the Cincinnati, Jackson & Mackinaw Railroad, arrived. The “Mackinaw” provided further impetus for West Unity’s growth, and its coming was cause for

one of the greatest celebrations ever held in the village. In 1901 a second railroad, the Wabash, completed its tracks through the village, which provided additional means of growth as the new century began.

Because of financial difficulties, changing modes of transportation and the diminished importance of railroads, almost exactly 100 years after the iron horse entered West Unity, the last vestiges of the iron rails were pulled up. Future generations of West Unity citizens will never know the excitement of the train whistle nor know the chug-

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a-lug of the steam engine or the eternal groaning of the diesel engine. The rail is now history for the village of West Unity.

In August 1888 West Unity was visited by a terrible fire, which was credited as being the most disastrous the village had ever experienced. Sixteen storerooms and principal business houses were destroyed in addition to stables and warehouses. West Unity had no fire department at the time and relied solely on hastily formed bucket brigades to carry the day. The flames from the fire were seen in Bryan and Montpelier, and cinders landed near Alvordton.

Adding to the excitement while attempting to reach help, the telephone company did not have night operators, the village telegraph operator could not be found and some telephone poles were burnt, making them

useless. Eventually the village of Bryan was summoned for help by telegraph, and the Bryan Fire Department, with their steam engine, rode to the rescue in a record 65 minutes.

The great fire was at first considered a terrible calamity, but within a few short months modern brick structures rose from the ashes of the burnt wooden buildings. Many of the brick buildings standing in downtown West Unity today were built after the 1888 fire.

Although the town had for years placed little importance on an organized fire department, after the fire West Unity organized a fire brigade and purchased its first steam fire engine.

West Unity holds the distinction of having nearly be-

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Village Of West Unity

- Mayor Don Leu -

I’ve lived in Williams County, West Unity my entire life. I’ve seen many new improvements to the county over the years. I was a member of the Williams County EMS, Squad 92/Medic 6 for twenty years. Williams County’s EMS system has saved thousands of lives since its arrival and has been a great addition to the county. I’d like to thank all past and present commissioners for their help in maintaining our county EMS system.

I was able to fix up an eye sore in downtown West Unity, opening a business called Star Video where an old BP gas station had long been deserted. I was a member of the Brady Township Fire Department for multiple years where I saw true alliances with different fire departments in the county.

I’ve been on the West Unity Council for 16 years, Mayor for 4 years and counting. I’ve seen West Unity grow for the better with the help from its citizens, businesses, employees, and local government. I’ve been an elementary teacher for Millcreek West Unity schools for the past 24 years to the present. Millcreek West Unity School system has a great reputation for producing number one graduates for the next generation.

I look back to 1834 when West Unity was in its beginnings. An 1830’s log cabin schoolhouse on the north side of town. Being platted by George Rings in 1842 making way for West Unity as we see it today. With the incorporation in 1866 more businesses and people were moving into our village.

In 1881 a fire destroyed multiple businesses in town but with the help from its citizens and local area people the fire was contained and extinguished. Without caring people, the entire town may have burnt down with West Unity possibly going to the way side or looking very different.

As we move on people keep coming, businesses keep opening, inventions keep improving lives and so West Unity keeps growing to what we have today. We have different Industries large and small helping West Unity thrive. We also have small hometown businesses that give West Unity that great home town feeling. The downtown area is like a picture postcard with the addition of our new decorative lighting. Also, West Unity is lucky to boast two federal and one state highway that run through our town which makes us an attractive choice for business and new citizens.

West Unity maintains three parks with a variety of activities to keep everyone entertained. West Unity is a beautiful village in the Northeast corner of Williams County, with caring citizens, wonderful children, a great school system for them to attend, a variety of churches for all to worship in and a village government that cares for all the people. West Unity is truly the “Community That Cares.”

So, thank you Williams County Commissioner’s for all you’ve done and do to help West Unity strive to be a great place to live.

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come the village that never was. When village co-founder William L. Smith died, he owned 80 acres of Section 8 in Brady Township. He willed the land to his wife. Later, Smith’s wife remarried and warranted the property to Thomas Grant. Years elapsed and part of the town of West Unity was built on the land, including the schoolhouse.

In 1895, a grandson, William D. Smith of Portland, Mich., an

owner of the land in fee simple, suddenly appeared to recover possession of the property owned by his grandfather. The case went to federal court in Toledo.

Although everything eventually was settled to the satisfaction of everyone involved, it was a sad statement of affairs to say that period documents record that the defect in the land titles had been known by local attorneys, judges and real estate men for years.

Millcreek West Unity School District (Hilltop)

- Superintendent Jim Wyse -

The Millcreek-West Unity Local School District, located in Williams County, Ohio, has a rich history. It was officially formed in 1953 through the consolidation of two small rural school districts, Millcreek and West Unity. The District has two schools, Hilltop Elementary and Hilltop Junior High/High School located in one building. This structure has enabled its students to become part of an educational family, as older students look out for those who are younger. Over the years, the District has undergone numerous changes and expansions to accommodate ever-evolving educational needs and requirements.

Throughout its history, the Millcreek-West Unity Local School District has remained committed to providing quality education to its students. The District has experienced advancements in curriculum and extracurricular activities to foster a well-rounded educational experience, and embraces technology as a tool to provide unique educational and co-curricular opportunities for its students.

Community involvement has always been a cornerstone of the District, with support from parents, residents, and local businesses. The faculty has a strong relationship with the Hilltop Athletic and Music Boosters, as well as the Millcreek-West Unity Foundation. Collaboration with these and other community organizations has helped to shape the District’s identity and its success in serving students.

As the Millcreek-West Unity Local School District continues to move forward, it remains dedicated to its mission of preparing students for success in academics, career, and life, while honoring its proud history and traditions. GO CADETS!

West Unity’s Mayor, Council & Citizens Would Like To Congratulate Williams County On Its 200th Year-Anniversary

Front Row: President Kevin Gray, Mayor Don Leu, Terri LeBowski.

Back Row: Dave Short, Steve Marvin, Shawn Blaisdell, Nathan Massie.

What Do You Enjoy About Williams County? Hilltop High School Students

ALAINA RUSSELL

BROOKLYN KUSZMAUL

HAYDEN JOHANTGEN

CONNER SANDERS

GIADA RISING

DEVIN DEMPSEY

NATHAN WIELAND

DYLAN SIEBENALER

CAMERON SCHLOSSER

RAACE ALLEN HAYNES

West Unity interesting facts

The Union Agricultural Society of Williams, Fulton and Defiance Counties held its annual fair in West Unity from 1858-1861.

West Unity

When Charpiots Hardware closed in the 60’s a human skeleton was found upstairs in a coffin and was donated to Millcreek West Unity Schools where it is used today for educational purposes. Was thought to have been left by a brother of Charpiot who was a doctor, the skeleton was hooked together.

Carter Kissell was a lawyer and author of a book “West Unity, Ohio” among many other accomplishments.

Herbert Stamm lived in West Unity, for those who remember he was a big time Boxer, he also cleaned walnuts back in the days. Bring him a bag of nuts and he would clean them for half the bag.

Phyllis Zuver was a big time lady wrestler who won most of her matches. After that she managed wrestlers in MMA “Mixed Martial Arts”. She was referred to as the first lady of MMA. Dan Severn was one of the fighters that tried to get into her wrestling school. He was known as “The Beast!”

Denny Perry was a Hilltop graduate that was drafted by the Phillies in 1971.

In 1920 the temperatures were so hot that some pavement blew up scattering bricks everywhere. Temperatures were in the 103-106 degrees in the shade.

January 8, 1918 The Empress Theater closed its doors.

Williams County Historical Society, Preserving History

By: Kelly J. Michael LOCAL HISTORIAN

The Williams County Historical Society was organized in 1956 in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Marsh. The Society’s mission is to encourage and promote education relating to the history of Williams County through study, collection, and preservation of artifacts illustrating the progress of the county. The non-profit organization operates under a Board of Trustees who volunteer in various ways to maintain the museum and various sites, as well as being docents when the museum complex is open for tours. The WCHS’s slogan is “History like charity begins at home.”

The original concrete museum was built in 1968 on the Fairgrounds property, with wings

added in 1976 through society projects and generous donations.

George Haverstock donated a large amount of money for a gallery to house his vast collection of Indian artifacts. He grew up west of Montpelier near the St. Joseph River, and as a boy found evidence along the river of the Indian’s occupation of the area before the advent of the white man. There was also a known Indian camp near the present Storrer Park in Montpelier, running along Cranberry Run. The Hopewell Indian culture and artifacts are represented in the Haverstock Gallery as well as other tribes found in the state of Ohio.

The museum presently houses five galleries with over 9000 square feet of space after several renovations. A large collection of

ARCTIC EXPLORER - Dr. Paul Allman Siple was born in Montpelier in 1908, and was chosen as an Eagle Scout in 1928 to participate in his first arctic expedition. He became most famously known for coining the term “wind chill.” The museum has his boots, boy scout badges, magazine articles, handwritten notebooks in handmade binders, and more on display, pictured here. (Photos by: Anna Wozniak-Villegas / The Village Reporter)

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military items was recently acquired from the Williams County Veterans Military Heritage Museum, and is displayed in a portion of one gallery. Other items of note inside the museum include the Civil War Battle Flag carried by the Ohio 38th OVI, a capital from the original 1840 courthouse column, courthouse clock hands, and a large painting depicting the capture of Revolutionary War spy Major Andre by John Paulding, Isaac Van Wert, and David Williams, Williams County’s namesake. In this same gallery one will find the horse drawn 1900 Metropolitan Steamer from the Bryan Fire Department, the 1800’s horse drawn hearse from the Oberlin Funeral Home, and jail door and key from the original brick Williams County Jail, among many other items.

Dr. Paul Allman Siple was born in Montpelier on Empire St. December 18, 1908. In 1928 he was

chosen from thousands of Eagle Scouts to accompany Admiral Richard Byrd on his first Antarctic Expedition. 12 years later while earning his PhD in geography he wrote “Adaptions of the Explorer to the Climate of Antarctica” as his doctorate dissertation and coined the term “Wind Chill” to denote the rapid heat loss experienced by the body under strong winds. In 1957-58 he was part of the crew who were the first men to winter at the South Pole. Dr. Siple’s boots, Boy Scout badges, magazine articles, and his notebooks with handmade binders are among his items on display in the museum.

Other notable Williams County natives include Fred Bauer of Montpelier, who was an author and editor of Guideposts Magazine, Astronaut Tom Henricks, and William J. Knight of Stryker, Civil War hero and engineer of The

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General during Andrews’ Raid. A period newspaper office houses many of Mr. Bauer’s books and publications, and Mr. Henricks’ NASA uniform and other memorabilia from his astronaut career are on display in the museum. Several photos and items belonging to Mr. Knight are on display as well as a pictorial exhibit depicting the events of Andrews’ Raid, also known as the Great Locomotive Chase that occurred April 12, 1862.

Also on the museum complex grounds one will find the Barn Museum full of farm related items, the Depot displaying photos and many railroad items, and the c.1850 Lett Log Cabin, built by George Lett, and moved from a site four miles south of Edgerton. Eleven children were raised in this tiny home with one small room and fireplace on the ground floor,

and a small stairway leading to an upper room. Many primitive items are displayed in the cabin.

The Historical Society holds other properties throughout Williams County in addition to the museum complex on the county Fairgrounds. Located on County Road 4.75, the Nettle Lake Indian Mounds are open to the public May through October from dawn to dusk. This group of Hopewell Indian Mounds date back to 300 BC to AD 600, and are as high as three feet and eighteen to thirty feet wide. Past excavations have revealed human bones, a skull, arrowheads, spear points and pottery pieces. There is a historical marker at the site.

MEETING HOUSE - Part of the Williams County Historical Society’s collection includes the original Society of Friends meeting house. The meeting house, constructed in 1850, was often used as a place for those taking part in the underground railroad to meet and coordinate efforts. The building still features many original artifacts from the county’s past, including two doors through which men and women entered separately.

The Hay Jay School is an historic one room schoolhouse built in 1901. It was attended until 1957 when many of the one room schoolhouses merged to form other school systems. This school is located on County Road 8, north of Montpelier. It is currently closed due to lack of visitors attending, but the society hopes to open it for school tours in the future.

Located in Brady Township outside of West Unity on County Road 21N is the Quaker Meeting House. Established in 1850, the meeting house and Quaker community had a long involvement with the Underground Railroad. Many of the original members were Abolitionists active in the Underground Railroad, assisting fugitive slaves as they passed through the community on their way north to Michigan. The house still contains the original pews and a pot-bellied stove. There are two front doors, one for the men to enter and one for the women. The two were separated inside the meeting house. Many of the original members including the Borton family are buried in the adjacent cemetery. It is the oldest religious building in the county. In conjunction with the Bean Creek Valley History Center, an event is being planned at this location for later this year.

It takes money and volunteers

to preserve and maintain all of these historic sites. The Williams County Historical Society is funded through the gifts, bequests, memberships and donations of others, as well as fund raisers from time to time. Memberships are available to individuals, families, seniors and students on a yearly basis.

A nice selection of books by local authors relating to the county are available for purchase as well. Free books are available with a membership purchase. The museum opens to the public in the late Spring, and is also open by appointment. School classes are always welcome to visit, and are greatly enjoyed by the children as well as the docent volunteers.

During the Williams County 200 Year Celebration on April 21st at the Fairgrounds, the museum complex will be open to visitors, as well as certain days during the Williams County Fair this year. For additional information or questions, you may contact the museum at 419-485-8200 or email wmscountyhistoricalsociety@gmail.com.

Promoting Family History: Williams County Genealogical Society

By: Jacob Kessler

THE VILLAGE REPORTER

If you have looked into your family history in Williams County, there is a good chance you know about the Williams County Genealogical Society. The organization is a non-profit organization that promotes family history research and work to collect, preserve, and disseminate genealogical data and records.

The group was created back in 1981, when Diane Gagel, a professional researcher, held the first meeting at her home. The meeting’s purpose was to find like-minded people in the area who enjoyed family research, and who also might want to establish a chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society. During that first meeting, ten people showed

up and began their group right in the living room.

During the course of a year, the organization successfully completed an array of essential tasks. These included the election of officers, the creation of a logo, the development of a comprehensive description of duties, aims, and goals, the implementation of a membership drive, the initiation of publicity efforts, and the recruitment of volunteers.

The organization also collaborated with a local newspaper in that period, with Pam Lash, authoring a free monthly column entitled “Roots and Shoots.” The column’s theme centered on spotlighting an early settler, along with inquiries. Pam wrote the column for three years, during which she had the oppor-

tunity to immerse herself in researching the pioneer families, and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

Following the formation of the group, its membership was initially modest, but it gradually expanded to include several hundred individuals. With this growth came the decision to establish a members-only newsletter that would be published quarterly. The creation of this publication necessitated extensive research, as well as transcription and typing of archival records from the courthouse and the Williams County Historical Society. Dubbed “Ohio’s Last Frontier,” this newsletter remains in circulation to this day.

Diane played a pivotal role in the development of multiple no-

table publications. She meticulously cataloged county Atlases from 1864, 1874, 1894, and 1903, and skillfully combined them into a cohesive project. This endeavor paved the way for numerous subsequent publication initiatives, which included comprehensive information on local cemeteries, marriages, births, deaths, land records, Civil War Veteran Schedule Gleanings, and an array of other subjects. Each of these projects was executed with exceptional attention to detail and benefited from the dedicated efforts of numerous volunteers who tackled a variety of tasks.

The year 1983 saw the inception of lineage societies with the

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first End of the Year Banquet. This banquet served as a platform to recognize individuals who could verify their ancestry, granting them a coveted spot in the First Families of Williams County. The organization later expanded its membership base by introducing additional societies like the Centennial Society and Civil War Society.

Initially, the meetings took place in various locations, ranging from the back room of a bank to a preschool at the East End Park in Bryan. However, with the establishment of the Local History Center, which is part of the Williams County Public Library, the group found a new permanent meeting place. The center has since served as an

excellent venue for their monthly meetings.

Now, 43 years later in 2024, the group is still going strong. With more genealogical milestones taking place every day, and more ways for information to become available coming out, there is more work to be done. The Williams County Genealogical Society is open to new members who are able to show their desire to do research.

Numerous publications are also for sale from the group, a Williams County Atlas and Wall Map Collection, Williams County Land Records (beginning 1823), Birth Records, Marriage Records, Death Records, Cemetery Records and Cemetery Master Index, Biographical Record of Williams County Civil War Veterans, and more.

Those who would like to know more about the Williams County Genealogical Society can visit the group’s Facebook page, email the group at wcgsohio@ gmail.com, or contact them by mail at P.O. Box 293, Bryan, Ohio, 43506.

Becky

Karie

Williams County History (In Photos)

MONTPELIER - Montpelier was incorporated in 1874, and its first municipal election was held in April 1875. Village council met in Allen’s Drugstore until an old schoolhouse was moved to the public square to serve as a municipal building. In 1892 this town hall was constructed jointly by Montpelier and Superior Township. Sam Martin was awarded the construction contract for $4,190.85, and the building was first occupied in January 1893.

CITY BAND - The Bryan City Band has long played an active role in the community, entertaining untold numbers of people and performing at some of the area’s most important historical events. The band was founded in 1852, making it the second oldest municipal band in the nation. Over the years the band has appeared under many different names. This group known as the North Western Silver Cornet Band contained many of early Bryan’s prominent citizens. The members in the photograph are identified by last name except Medary Patterson (the boy holding cymbals), the son of Robert N. Patterson, editor of the Bryan Democrat newspaper. This image was taken by William Lockhart, one of Bryan’s early professional photographers, after the band was outfitted in new uniforms made by a Bryan tailor in 1875. (WCPL Photographic Archives.)

SOLDIERS DAY - On September 11, 1909, the Williams County Fair hosted “Soldiers Day,” offering veterans free admission and a pork and beans dinner. The Bryan Democrat noted that each veteran was expected to bring a cane to be used in execution of the Manual of Arms. “Bear in mind the cane, as one man in ranks without a cane mars the harmony and greatly detracts from the appearance of the battalion.”

OUTBOARD MOTOR - Randy Winegardner established the Bryan Outboard Motor Company around 1932, servicing and selling outboard motors and boats 18 miles from a lake or river large enough to accommodate motorboats. Winegardner constructed the brick and tile building above in 1939, adding mobile home sales and a HiSpeed gasoline station. He later developed Woodland Estates Mobile Home Park on County Road 15.75, north of High Street.

a Bryan High School play poses circa 1906. Richard Cramer (third row, on right) was born in Bryan in 1889 and became a Hollywood character actor, appearing in more than 200 films from the 1920s to the 1950s. Burly, menacing and gravel-voiced, Cramer specialized in villainous roles in low-budget westerns, but also appeared with Laurel and Hardy, and W. C. Fields. He died in Los Angeles in 1960.

Photographic Archives.)

TOWN BAND - Evansport had a town band as early as 1875. Band members in this circa 1900 photograph are, from left to right, (first row) unidentified snare drummer and bass drummer John Christy; (second row) Charles Snyder, Wagner (leader), Ed Williams, Jim Christy, Jack Snyder, Claude Woodward, and Charles Schroeder; (third row) Mann, William Snyder, Sam Masters, Elmer Christy, Ed King; (fourth row) Porter Cameron, Homer Hall, Emery Snyder. (WCPL Photographic Archives.)

PLAY - The cast of

(WCPL

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EARLY HISTORY - In 1874 Williams County constructed this two-story, 104- by 45-foot brick infirmary or “poor house” on a 200-plus-acre Jefferson Township site along County Road 16 north of County Road I.50. Cultivating crops and raising livestock on the surrounding farm helped offset the infirmary’s operating costs. In 1966 Hillside Nursing Home (now part of Hillside Country Living) was built to replace the infirmary; the 103-year-old structure was razed in 1977. (1874 Williams County atlas.)

BARN RAISING - Local farmers have long used barns to shelter livestock and store hay, straw, grain and farm equipment. This May 1911 photograph shows a barn raising on the Wade Rethmel farm south of Evansport. Barn raisings were community events—neighbors, friends and family members of all ages gathered to construct a barn. While men built the barn, youngsters carried water and fetched needed items, and women prepared bountiful meals for participants.

EDGERTON TOWN HALL - In 1884 this $8,000 town hall was erected jointly by Edgerton and St. Joseph Township. On August 15, 1884, the building’s cornerstone was laid “with imposing ceremonies,” and it was probably first occupied in late 1884 or early 1885. The brick structure featured a public hall that hosted speakers, entertainment, and high school commencement exercises. Iron hitching rails on the building’s north and west sides were removed in 1946.

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HISTORIC REFLECTION - Draining and tiling allowed local pioneers to convert heavily forested, swampy acreage into productive farms. Williams County is blessed with abundant clay, providing raw material for numerous brick and tile factories established in the 1800s. Clay was formed into brick or tile, dried, and baked or “fired” in kilns like those above to create finished products. Local brick and tile production continued well into the 1900s. (WCPL Photographic Archives.)

168 - Williams County, Ohio (200th Celebration)

NATIONAL THRESHERS ASSOCIATION - The National Threshers Association was founded by LeRoy and Lucile Blaker of rural Alvordton. The steam engine enthusiasts’ first annual reunions were held on the Blaker farm, but growing attendance forced a move to the Williams County fairgrounds in 1952. Since 1965 the reunion has been held at the Fulton County Fairground in Wauseon.

STRYKER NURSERIES - By 1861, Joseph Boynton established the Stryker Nurseries on about 20 acres at Ohio 34 and County Road 20.50. Boynton’s business prospered and by 1871, he had a remarkable 200,000 fruit and ornamental trees for sale. In the late 1870s Boynton experienced financial difficulties and lost his business. The nurseries continued under other ownership until an 1881 fire consumed several buildings on the site. (1874 Williams County atlas.)

BRYAN - Main Street, East side of Bryan’s square circa 1865.

EARLY RAILROAD - Alvordton Cincinnati, Jackson & Mackinaw depot circa 1910 .

FAIR - Williams County Fair 1909.

Continued: County History (In Photos)

TAMING THE WILDERNESS - Mills were among Williams County’s first businesses and helped tame the wilderness. Sawmills supplied lumber that was used to replace crude log structures with frame buildings, considered a great step of progress at the time. Gristmills offered a market for locally-grown grain and produced cornmeal and flour, essential parts of a settler’s diet. Mill products were considered valuable commodities, and people traveled many miles under difficult circumstances to secure them. Early mills harnessed the power of creeks or rivers; later boilers, gasoline engines and electricity were used. The first local gristmills ground grain between two millstones. By the 1880s, roller mills that used metal rollers to produce finer, more consistent flour began to appear. This circa 1910 photograph shows the Edon Roller Mills.

EARLY FARMING

- The area’s first settlers used sickles, scythes or grain cradles to harvest grain by hand. Horsedrawn reapers that cut grain were demonstrated in Williams County by the 1850s. In the 1880s, farmers began using horse-drawn binders, which cut grain and bundled the stalks for threshing. In this circa 1953 photograph a farmer pulls a left-handed binder using a tractor. (WCPL Photographic Archives.)

VETERAN’S MONUMENT - In 1911 Walter Slaughter Post Grand Army of the Republic sponsored efforts to erect Edgerton’s veterans’ monument, affectionately known as “Clem.” On May 30, 1912, an American flag was unfurled, revealing the magnificent monument to a large crowd. As larger, faster motorized vehicles replaced horse-drawn conveyances, Clem’s position in Edgerton’s main intersection became less and less desirable. In 1972 the monument was relocated to the town hall’s west lawn.

Continued: County History (In Photos)

MASSIVE WALNUT - In 1901, this colossal walnut tree was cut in Jefferson Township. Measured 25 feet around, 5.5 feet above ground. Purchased by a German firm but prior to shipping a Boston company offered $3,000 for it. When it arrived in Europe, the stateside offer was not matched so it sailed across the Atlantic back to Boston.

SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION - Pioneer horse-drawn school bus 1919.

After 1900, township school districts began consolidating and students could no longer walk to school. The first school buses were horse drawn, later replaced by motorized buses.

ENTERTAINMENT - Summer carnivals have long been a Williams County pastime. A highlight of the Bryan Merchant’s Carnival held June 29 through July 4, 1908, was free shows provided twice daily by “equilibrist” Achille Phileon. Outfitted in flashy jacket, cap and tights, Phileon balanced himself atop a large ball and using his feet, maneuvered the ball to the top of a narrow, spiraling ramp erected on West High Street.

170 - Williams County, Ohio (200th Celebration)

Continued: County History (In Photos)

FIRE EQUIPMENT - Bryan firemen pulled the village firefighting equipment to fires until the American House Hotel blaze in July 1878. The steamer and hand pumper became mired in muddy streets, and people scurried past the stranded equipment to see the fire. Shortly thereafter, the village purchased horses to transport the equipment. Alex Partee and Wilson Connin drive the department’s hose wagon south on North Main Street in this circa 1910 image. (WCPL Photographic Archives.)

EARLY BRYAN FIRE DEPARTMENT - Bryan’s fire department was founded December 18, 1857, as a hook and ladder company. In 1863 the village acquired a used manual fire pumper and in 1875 purchased this Patterson steam fire pumper to complement the hand-pumper. The Patterson steamer was replaced in 1918 by a used American LaFrance Metropolitan steam engine. This 1908 photograph shows the Patterson steamer working at Main and High streets. (WCPL Photographic Archives.)

GARBAGE TRUCK - In 1946 the City of Bryan purchased this “RefuseGetter” to replace an uncovered garbage truck. Collectors placed refuse in the rear hopper and as the truck moved forward, the hopper rose to the top of the truck and dumped refuse into the enclosed box. Shown with the Refuse-Getter are, left to right, assistant street commissioner Vernon Coil, city fire truck driver Guy Eager and street commissioner Burt Rosendaul.

NETTLE LAKE - Northwest Township’s Nettle Lake is one of Ohio’s largest natural lakes, covering 94 acres. Managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife, Nettle Lake offers good numbers of largemouth bass, crappie, channel catfish and bluegill. Development around the lake began in earnest about 1916, and today numerous cottages, two campgrounds and other facilities are available for public enjoyment.

Continued: County History (In Photos) ...

LITTLE GIANT - In the 1870s Edgerton purchased a “Little Giant” fire engine but experienced difficulty maintaining an organized fire department to operate it. In July 1893 fire destroyed the block northeast of Indiana Street and Michigan Avenue. The following year, Edgerton purchased Bryan’s used hand-pumped fire engine and organized a fire department. This undated photograph shows Edgerton firefighters in dress uniform at the firehouse next to Edgerton’s town hall. (Edgerton Historical Society.)

MONTPELIER UTILITIES - In August 1895 Montpelier awarded contracts for this power plant and waterworks pumping station at Depot and Bryant streets. The brick building housed two coal-fired boilers to power electric generators. Three wells supplied water to nearly five miles of water mains and 63 fire hydrants. The 110-foot steel standpipe on the left provided water storage and stabilized pressure. On December 14, 1895, streetlights were switched on for the first time.

WEST UNITY TOWN HALL - West Unity’s town hall was constructed in 1894-95 at the northeast corner of Jackson and High streets. Council chambers, a community band room, fire department and village jail occupied the first floor. The second floor served as an auditorium and theatre for many years. Note the iron hitching rail in front. The building continued to serve as West Unity’s municipal headquarters following extensive alterations, including removal of its second floor until 2016.

STUDY GROUP - In 1880 Rev. William Lance organized Bryan Circle of the Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle to provide a systematic reading course in history, literature, science and art for those who were denied college opportunities or who wished to renew their studies. In 1901 the organization became Bay View Reading Circle and in 1943-1944 Bay View Study Club. The group disbanded in the 1990s. (WCPL Photographic Archives.)

WEST UNITY WOMEN’S CLUB - West Unity’s first women’s club, the Olive Literary Society, was organized August 27, 1890, for study and research purposes. Members shown in this February 1892 photograph are, from left to right, (first row) Lydia Pettit, Alice Hoover, Josie Dodge, unidentified; (second row) Mary Morrison, Nora Bowman, unidentified, Mary Denman; (third row) Jessie Beatty, Nellie Carney, Ella Hollington, unidentified, Nettie Smith, unidentified. (WCPL Photographic Archives.)

EARLY BASEBALL - The 1904 Northwest Township baseball team poses at the Grange Fairground on Ohio 49 north of Cooney. From left to right are (first row) Bill Speaker and Ralph Ricketts; (second row) Thurman Walker, Henry Ricketts, Warren Ricketts, Ross Stickney, Joe Hershey, Bill Welch, Nate Townsend, Howard Carl, and Hurd Speaker. (WCPL Photographic Archives.)

AG SOCIETY FAIR - On June 14, 1856, the Williams County Agricultural Society was organized. On October 7-8, 1856, the first Williams County Fair was held on the courthouse square in Bryan. The fair was held at various Bryan locations for 30 years. In 1885 the Montpelier Union Agriculture Company was organized and developed a fairground on Montpelier’s east side. In 1886 two local fairs were held—the Williams County Fair in Bryan and the Montpelier Fair. The Montpelier Fair prospered for 15 years, and the Williams County Fair was discontinued. By 1899 the Montpelier Fair was a bust. In 1900 the Williams County Agricultural Society purchased the Montpelier Fairground and has held the Williams County Fair there ever since.

BRYAN MILL - Russell’s Mill was located on the north side of East Wilson Street in Bryan between Walnut and Cherry streets. The mill produced livestock feed and flour. In 1920, J. W. Russell completed a new three-story brick mill building on the southwest corner of Mulberry and Garden streets next to the Cincinnati Northern Railroad. (WCPL Photographic Archives.)

WEST UNITY MILL - John Zimmerman operated the West Unity Flouring Mills at West Jackson Street and U.S. 127 from 1905 to 1935. The mill was originally equipped with millstones and later converted to the roller mill process. Zimmerman delivered his “Favorite” brand flour to area families, grocers and bakers. Zimmerman (left) and an unidentified worker are shown inside the building next to the roller mills. (WCPL Photographic Archives.)

THEATRE - In 1907 J. C. Garnette, a professional photographer from Stryker, opened the Bryan Theatorium on the north side of the courthouse square. In 1908 the Bryan Democrat reported that “in addition to a thousand feet of film, a good vocalist sings illustrated songs and all for the small sum of five cents. Mothers with children can rest assured that nothing will be seen that could offend the most particular.” (WCPL Photographic Archives.)

RAILROAD MILL / ELEVATOR - Philip and Gustave Christman constructed this mill and elevator on the west side of Walnut Street south of the Lake Shore and Michigan Southern Railroad in Bryan, replacing a mill that burned in 1896. It was one of the largest operations of its kind in this part of the state with a capacity of 125 barrels of flour per day. Fire destroyed the Christman Mill and Elevator in December 1918. (WCPL Photographic Archives.)

ANIMAL POWER - Before motorized equipment, farm work was performed manually or with the aid of oxen or horses. Millcreek Township farmer LeRoy Blaker’s team pulls a cyclone land roller in this May 1911 photograph, while a horse-drawn walking plow rests in a furrow on the left. Blaker recalled that farmers walked eight miles while plowing each acre and could plow two acres in 10 hours with two good horses. (Williams County Historical Society.)

HARD WORK BEFORE MACHINERY - Local pioneers separated grain from straw and chaff with flails or trampling by animals. By the late 1800s threshing machines powered by steam engines were common. In this circa 1915 Edgerton-area photograph farmers use pitchforks to unload wheat bundles from a wagon into a threshing machine. The thresher filled bags with grain on the right, and blew straw into a stack at the rear.

EARLY COMBINES - By the 1930s combines—so-called because they combined the functions of a reaper and threshing machine—were used locally to harvest grain. Early combines were drawn by tractors; this circa 1953 photograph shows a self-propelled Oliver combine. (WCPL Photographic Archives.)

KUNKLE TORNADO - On May 17, 1894, a tornado south of Kunkle injured several local residents and killed Daniel Barrett, 75, Margaret Barrett, 77, George Oxenger, 32, and Myrtie Belle Daso, 8.

MILK EVAPORATING PLANT - In March 1909 the Van Camp Packing Company began production at this milk evaporating plant (or condensory) on East High Street in Bryan where the Cincinnati Northern Railroad and Toledo and Indiana interurban railway intersected. The condensory was the largest building in town at the time and was reportedly “the most modern, best-equipped milk evaporating plant in the United States.”