USA > Ohio > Huron County > History of Huron County, Ohio, Its Progress and Development, Volume II > Part 5
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Henry P. Stentz acquired his education in the Union schools of Plymouth and crossed the threshold of business life as an employe of A. Atwood, a mer- chant and banker of that place. He gave unfaltering loyalty to his employer and manifested unremitting diligence in the discharge of the duties that de- volved upon him. His remuneration at the outset was only eight dollars per month,
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but he gradually worked his way upward, winning the confidence and good will of his employer by his diligence, enterprise and trustworthiness. He remained with Mr. Atwood until after the outbreak of the Civil war, when he launched out upon an independent business venture, speculating in several articles of merchan- dise, including cotton, hemp, sugar and molasses. This caused hin to travel largely in the south and while he did not meet with very substantial success in the under. taking, owing doubtless to the condition of the markets in those feverish times, he vet gained broad experience that proved an excellent stock in trade for future business development.
Following the close of the war Mr. Stentz retired from the field of specula- tion and in 1866 accepted a cashiership in the Exchange Bank of Monroeville as successor to S. V. Harkness. In 1879 this bank was organized as the First National Bank of Monroeville, with a capital of fifty thousand dollars, Mr. Stentz continuing as cashier until 1889, when he was promoted to the presi- dency. He also organized the First National Bank of Galion, Ohio, one of the first institutions of the kind established under the new regime and he was sub- sequently one of the promoters and organizers of the National Bank of Plymouth. He manifested the keenest discernment in the solution of intricate financial prob- lems and in connection with his banking interests he developed a safe and conserva- tive business policy which made his among the strongest financial enterprises of this part of the state. Realizing that realty is one of the safest of all invest- ments, he made judicious purchases of property, particularly fine farming land in the vicinity of Monroeville, and ultimately became the owner of one thousand and five acres.
Mr. Stentz never selfishly hoarded his wealth but was a generous contributor to many institutions and movements which were based upon humanitarian prin- ciples. Although he did not hold membership with any religious denomination, he attended and generously supported the Presbyterian church at Monroeville. His record furnishes a notable example of what may be accomplished by a con- servative, enterprising business man. Assuming the responsibilities of a bank cashiership when twenty-eight years of age, through his close application to every duty and his thorough understanding of the business in principle and de- tail he widely promoted its growth and extended its business connections. Fol- lowing methods which neither sought nor required disguise, he furnished an example of honorable endeavor that is indeed well worthy of emulation. Mr. Stentz not only succeeded in elevating the Monroeville Exchange Bank to the highest point of excellence attained by any institution of the kind in Huron county, but in order that its interests might be extended he succeeded in having it reor- ganized as a national bank and under his capable control it was made to rank with the soundest and best managed banks of northern Ohio.
The Monroeville Weekly Spectator, during the wild financial panic that occurred in the summer of 1893, said: "During a commercial crisis like that through which we are now passing, when doubt and distrust are apparent on every hand, there is sweet consolation in the thought that the solvency of our own home bank is unquestioned. While hundreds of similar institutions throughout the length and breadth of the land are forced into suspension or failure, because of the existing lack of confidence, the First National Bank of Monroeville stands
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and will stand a monument of integrity, judgment and fidelity to the efficient management it has ever enjoyed and which today is identical with that under which it began its career over twenty-seven years ago. The present crisis finds it in better condition than ever before to cope with panical problems and it will speedily and satisfactorily solve all that are presented provided they legitimately come within the sphere of its action. Mr. Stentz has been the moving spirit, the power behind the throne, the manager from the organization to the present time, and to his efforts are chiefly attributable the long continued prosperity and substantial growth that have characterized the bank's career and the enviable repu- tation, standing and confidence which it now enjoys."
The death of Mr. Stentz occurred in Monroeville, June 9, 1903, after an illness of six weeks. He had been called one of nature's noblemen and was a man honored by young and old, rich and poor. One of the local papers said of him : "Mr. Stentz never aspired to official honors, but when in 1901 Governor Nash honored him with the appointment of trustee of the State Hospital at Toledo he accepted. As an officer he was painstaking, prompt and accurate in duty, accommodating to those for whom he transacted business, and urbane to all with whom he had to deal. His business judgment was sought and relied upon. He was always cautious in advancing an opinion, all the consequences of which he could not forecast with reasonable certainty. There were traits of character in H. P. Stentz that should be mentioned not only to his individual credit but to the honor of mankind. He was always courteous and full of genial qualities which attracted others to him, and which will make his loss sorely felt." With- out making professions of exalted goodness, he was just to his enemies, chari- table to his associates and full of sympathy and devotion to his friends. His funeral was one of the largest ever held in Monroeville, many coming from dis- tant points to pay the last tribute of honor and respect to one whom they had long known and honored, while the entire town regretted his loss as a personal bereavement, so closely was he associated with the life and interests of the com- munity.
Following the death of her husband Mrs. Stentz took up the burden of the business affairs. The control of the bank stock passed to her and she was im- mediately made president of the institution. This was a rare distinction, as she was the only lady president of a national bank in the United States. Her advent was heralded by all financial and daily papers over the country. She insisted on conducting the business in a thorough, businesslike manner and soon found favor with patrons and stockholders of the bank alike. The first National under her control became recognized as a safe, sound and prosperous concern. Not contented with her interests in that direction, Mrs. Stentz soon turned her attention to traction interests and now owns and controls the San- dusky, Norwalk & Mansfield electric line between Norwalk and Shelby, Ohio. This is one of her best investments and she is the vice president and a director of the company. She also has many other important business interests which en- gage her wise sagacity and untiring enterprise. She is the vice president of the Hull-Stentz Realty Company, of Toledo, and numerous other concerns and corporations. She is entirely fearless in all of her business operations, entering
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upon large deals with intrepidity and confidence. Her insight is most keen, her judgment seldom if ever at fault.
Notwithstanding all this Mrs. Stentz is essentially feminine and domestic in her taste, spending a great deal of her time in her beautiful country home on the Monroeville road between Norwalk and Monroeville. Her charities are many and she contributes to churches and benevolent organizations most generously, yet she never gives with ostentation or display. She has undoubtedly given as much for such causes as any other person in the county. One of her gifts, for which she will never cease to be remembered, was that of a handsome monu- ment erected in honor of the soldiers and sailors of Ridgefield. In 1901 Rev. Charles S. Aves started a movement for raising a fund for the purpose, his plans being to take up a collection each Memorial day until a sufficient amount was secured, but in two years only eighty-seven dollars had been received. Mrs. Annie M. Stentz afterward announced her determination to erect the monument to perpetuate the memory of the brave boys in blue. The contract was awarded, the work was executed and on the 29th of September, 1904, she unveiled the monument and presented it as a gift to the city. It was made a gala day in the history of Monroeville. On that occasion there was witnessed the largest pro- cession ever known in the town and with appropriate music and addresses the occasion was made one never to be forgotten by any who were present. Mrs. Stentz is ever ready to extend a helping hand to the poor and needy and yet she does not believe in that indiscriminate giving which fosters vagrancy or idleness. Her charities are broad and practical, and her influence on the business life of the community has been essentially along constructive lines. Recognized as the equal in ability of the men who are most prominent in the commercial and financial circles of Huron county, she is at the same time lacking in none of those social graces which make her a most charming hostess and valued companion in so- cial functions.
FRANCIS J. ELMLINGER.
Francis J. Elmlinger, now deceased, was for many years numbered among the prominent and successful agriculturists of Sherman township, there owning a well improved and valuable farm of one hundred and seventy-two acres at the time of his demise. He was born in Baden, Germany, his parents being Conrad and Mary Elmlinger, by whom he was brought to the United States when a little lad of seven years. They first took up their abode in Huron county, Ohio, but subsequently re- moved to Paulding county, this state, where they spent the remainder of their lives.
On attaining man's estate Francis J. Elmlinger was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Weidinger, a daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Weidinger, who was a little maiden of eight years when she accompanied her parents on their emi- gration to the new world. The children born of this union are as follows : Joseph J., who resides on the home farm with his mother and sisters ; John F., who wed- ded Miss Monica Brobst and makes his home in Sherman township; Peter C., liv- ing at Norwalk, Ohio, who married Miss Catherine Schell; Mary C., who is at
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HISTORY OF HURON COUNTY
home ; Rosa E., the wife of Aloys Miller, of Sherman township ; and Anna D., who is likewise at home.
Francis J. Elmlinger devoted his time and energies to general agricultural pur- suits throughout his active business career and was widely recognized as a most substantial, enterprising and progressive citizen of Sherman township. His poli- tical allegiance was unfalteringly given to the democratic party and he capably served in the position of road supervisor for several years. He was a Catholic in religious belief and acted as a councilman in St. Sebastian's church. Honorable in business, loyal in citizenship, charitable in thought, kindly in action, true to every trust confided to his care, his life was the highest type of Christian manhood.
Since the death of their father Joseph J. and John F. Elmlinger have oper- ated the old homestead farm in partnership, conducting their interests under the name of Elmlinger Brothers. The place comprises one hundred and seventy-two acres of rich and arable land in Sherman township and in its cultivation the broth- ers are meeting with well merited and gratifying success, being men of energy, en- terprise and good business ability. Joseph J. Elmlinger is a stockholder in the Sherman Oil & Gas Company, which is drilling for oil in Sherman township at the present time. The officers of the company are as follows: J. R. Bischoff, president ; Daniel Heyman, vice president ; J. P. Heyman, treasurer ; and Joseph J. Elmlinger, secretary. Henry Scheid, L. P. Heyman and A. F. Heyman are the directors of the concern. Joseph J. Elmlinger exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the democracy and has acted as road su- pervisor. while at the present time he is serving as clerk of Sherman township. He is a faithful communicant of the Catholic church and fraternally is identified with the Knights of Columbus at Monroeville.
John F. Elmlinger lives just across the road from the old homestead farm but is making preparations to erect a new residence on the ground adjoining the home of his mother, brother and sisters. The members of the family are well known and highly esteemed throughout the community and are numbered among the rep- resentative, respected and leading residents of Sherman township.
ELZIE G. PALMER.
A well improved farm of eighty-five acres, situated in Fairfield township, is the home of Elzie G. Palmer, who has followed agriculture as a life work. His birth occurred in New Haven township, Huron county, Ohio, on the 20th of June, 1867, his parents being Milton and Isadore (Burlingham) Palmer, who were also na- tives of this county, the father having been born in New Haven township in 1842, while the mother's birth occurred in Norwich township. The Palmer family is of English extraction. The paternal grandparents of Elzie G. Palmer were Meigs and Betsy (Curtis) Palmer, while his maternal grandparents were Earl and Ro- setta (Carpenter ) Burlingham.
Elzie G. Palmer obtained his education in the district schools and was reared in the usual manner of farm lads, assisting his father from the time of early spring planting until the crops were harvested in the late autumn. As stated above, he
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has given his attention to the work of general farming throughout his entire busi- ness career, and for the past four years he has resided on his farm of eighty-five acres in Fairfield township. He annually harvests rich crops as a reward for the care and labor which he bestows upon the fields, cultivating the land according to the modern methods of farming.
On the 23d of July, 1890, Mr. Palmer was joined in wedlock to Miss Emma Russell, a daughter of John and Mary (Lewis) Russell, of Ripley township, this county. Their union has been blessed with seven children, namely: Florence ; Ross ; Elva ; Carl ; Esther and Isadore, twins ; and Clarence. Mr. Palmer gives his political allegiance to the men and measures of the republican party, being con- vinced that its principles are most conducive to good government. His entire life has been passed in this county and his fellow townsmen know him as a straight- forward, reliable and progressive citizen, who well merits the esteem that is uni- formly accorded him.
FRANK J. GIES.
Not all who take up the work of the farm meet with success. There are cer- tain indispensable elements, including industry, perseverance and good judgment, to tell the individual when is the best time of planting and what are the best meth- ods of caring for the crops. Mr. Gies seems to possess all the essential elements of success in agricultural lines, for he is now one of the substantial and prosperous farmer of Peru township. A glance at his place at once indicates to the passerby that his methods are practical and progressive. His farm, comprising one hundred and thirty acres, presents a most attractive appearance, for the land is under a high state of cultivation and gives promise of golden harvests in the autumn.
He was born in Bronson township, Huron county, Ohio, on the 25th of Octo- ber, 1872, his parents being Michael and Blondina (Remley) Gies. The paternal grandfather, who was a native of Germany, made the voyage to this country about 1822 and became one of the early settlers of Bronson township, this county. The log house which he here erected was the birthplace of his son Michael, who re- mained a resident of Huron county throughout his entire life. The latter was an agriculturist by occupation, in which line of activity he won success by reason of his untiring industry and capable management. He was a valued and prominent member of the Catholic church, to which he contributed liberally of his time and means and in the faith of which he passed away in 1905. His wife, whose birth occurred in Germany in 1840, accompanied her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Remley, on their emigration to the United States in 1848, the family home being established in Bronson township, this county. She still survives and is well known and highly esteemed throughout the entire community. By her marriage she be- came the mother of seven children, namely: August, who is now a resident of Crawford county, Ohio ; Ferdinand, living in Bronson township; Amelia, who is the wife of Emil Schnurr and makes her home in Bronson township ; Lawrence, at home ; Frank J., of this review ; William, likewise a resident of Bronson township ; and Leo, who is at home.
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Frank J. Gies attended the district and German schools in the acquirement of an education and continued a resident of Bronson township until 1891. He worked for Mr. Remley for about three years, on the expiration of which period he went to Norwalk and was there in the employ of John Gardner for about nine years. Subsequently he purchased his present farm of one hundred and thirty acres in Peru township from Ed Lawrence and has here since carried on his agri- cultural interests with excellent results. He has remodeled the house and barn, also erected a number of outbuildings and altogether has a well improved and model farming property.
On the 15th of February, 1900, Mr. Gies was united in marriage to Miss Rose Reichert, a native of Germany and a daughter of Conrad and Helen Reichert. When a maiden of sixteen years she crossed the Atlantic to the United States in company with some friends but her parents never left the fatherland. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Gies have been born three children: Oscar, whose birth occurred Feb- ruary 20, 1903 ; Walter, whose natal day was September 6, 1905; and Leander, who was born on the 6th of April, 1909.
Mr. Gies is a faitliful communicant of the Catholic church. In 1908, in com- pany with his wife, he made a trip to. Europe and visited Germany, Switzerland and Italy, spending about nine weeks abroad. Having lived in Huron county throughout his entire life, he is well known within its borders and the many ex- cellent traits of his character have brought to him the warm friendship of those with whom he has been associated.
REV. P. J. QUINN.
Rev. P. J. Quinn, who since the 4th of October, 1903, has been in charge of the parish of St. Mary's church in Norwalk, was born in Niles, Ohio, on the 16th of February, 1874. His father, Charles Quinn, was a native of County Tyrone, Ire- land, and came to the United States in the late '6os, at which time he settled in Ohio, remaining a resident here until his death on the 14th of December, 1907. His widow, who bore the name of Bridget Gallagher, is also a native of Ireland and is still living, being now a resident of Niles, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Charles Quinn be- came the parents of fourteen children, six sons and eight daughters.
In the schools of his native town P. J. Quinn acquired his early education and afterward had the benefit of instruction at Notre Dame University for three and a half years. He also spent a year and a half at St. Charles College in Mary- land and pursued a theological course at St. Mary's Seminary in Cleveland. He was then ordained to the priesthood on the 9th of June, 1900, in Cleveland and his first two years of pastoral work were spent as assistant at St. Agnes' church in that city. Later, he was given charge of the Catholic church in Van Wert, Ohio, where he remained for one year and three months as guardian over the spiritual interests of St. Mary's church and on the 4th of October, 1903, he came to Norwalk to take charge of St. Mary's church at this place. He has been lo- cated here for about six years and is doing excellent work for the cause of Catho- licism. The interests of the church are well organized and he has the hearty co-
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operation of its members. He is very zealous in the work and is, moreover, a man of scholarly attainments, capable of holding the interest of his auditors when he addresses them upon religious themes. Father Quinn has three sisters who are members of religious bodies, Sadie and Ellen being connected with the Sis- ters of the Humility of Mary in the diocese of Cleveland, while Catherine is as- sociated with the Sisters of St. Joseph in Erie, Pennsylvania.
WILLIAM H. PIERCE.
William H. Pierce, a well known and successful merchant of Wakeman, was born at that place on the 19th of August, 1840, a son of Lemuel B. and Eunice (Burr) Pierce. In 1815, Lemuel B. Pierce accompanied his parents Mr. and Mrs. Amile P. Pierce, on their removal from Connecticut to Huron county, Ohio. They made the journey by wagon, bringing all their earthly possessions with them. The log cabin which they erected was the third one built in Wakeman township and as this part of the state was still covered with timber, they had to clear the land before it could be utilized for farming purposes. As the years passed, Lem- uel B. Pierce won success in his agricultural interests, owing to his untiring and well directed labor, and eventually became an extensive landowner. He also built and operated one of the first sawmills in Wakeman and was highly esteemed throughout the community as one of its worthy pioneer settlers whose efforts proved an important factor in the work of early development. He was a man of powerful physique and when in his prime could stand with his feet in a half bushel measure and shoulder five bushels of wheat, weighing three hundred pounds. Public-spirited and progressive, his aid and co-operation could always be counted upon to further any movement or measure instituted to promote the general wel- fare and at the polls, he gave his support to the candidates whom he believed would best conserve the public weal, but never sought office as a reward for his party fealty. His demise occurred in September, 1875, while his wife was called to her final rest in 1866, their remains being interred in the Wakeman cemetery. Their family numbered five children, namely: Amelia, who died when about seven years of age : Elbert B., who is now deceased ; William H., of this review ; Julia J., the widow of Theodore V. Bunce ; and Frank L., who has also passed away.
William H. Pierce was reared under the parental roof and early in life aided his father in the arduous labor incident to the development of a frontier farm. He obtained his preliminary education in the public schools of Wakeman and afterward attended Oberlin University for several terms. During the winter of 1860-61, he taught school in Wakeman township and in September, 1861, enlisted for service in the Union army as a member of Company H, Forty-first Regiment of Ohio Volunteer Infantry. In 1862, he was promoted to the rank of lieutenant and transferred to Company B of the same regiment, commanding the company for two years. The regiment was attached to the Army of the Cumber- land and saw much arduous service, participating in many hotly contested engage- ments. In the campaign from Chattanooga to Atlanta, Mr. Pierce was under fire for one hundred days, but in spite of this and many other hazardous experiences,
-
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he escaped injury and imprisonment and had been in the service for more than three years before suffering from even a day's illness. He was mustered out on the 3Ist of January, 1865, about six months after the expiration of his three years' term of enlistment. and returned home with a military record of which he had every reason to be proud. Soon afterward, he became identified with the mercantile interests of Wakeman as a member of the firm of Harris, Pierce & Baldwin, handling a general line of merchandise and farm implements. In 1880, he sold his interest to his partners and purchased a farm in Richland county, being there engaged in agricultural pursuits for about six years. Returning to Wake- man on the expiration of that period, he once more became connected with mer- cantile pursuits and had been continuously connected with that line of activity to the present time, conducting his enterprise under the firm name of W. H. Pierce & Sons. In addition to carrying a fine line of groceries, boots and shoes and school supplies, they make a specialty of handling and shipping eggs and are generally conceded to be the most extensive dealers in eggs in the entire county. Mr. Pierce is a man of resourceful business ability, whose capably directed labors and keen discernment constitute the basis of the splendid success which has attended his effort. The neat and tasteful arrangement of his store, combined with the rea- sonable prices and earnest desire to please his patrons have secured for him a farge and very gratifying trade.
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