Williams County Archives — Ohio Genealogy

Biography of C. Rome Dustin

A Standard History of Williams County Ohio, Vol 2, Title Page

C. Rome Dustin, born on July 26, 1887, near Kunkle, Madison Township, Williams County, Ohio, is the superintendent of Montpelier public schools. He is the son of John H. and Mary W. (Barckley) Dustin, both high school graduates and former teachers. Dustin earned his Bachelor of Science from Tri-State Normal College and furthered his education at Ohio University and Teachers’ College, N.Y. His teaching career includes positions in Bridgewater and Superior Townships, Pioneer, Kunkle, and Montpelier. During World War I, he served in the Naval Officers Training School. Married to Ruth Elder on August 2, 1917, they have a son, Richard E. Dustin is a member of the Church of God and a supporter of the Democratic Party.

Biography of Byron S. Williams

Byron S. Williams, born on May 7, 1873, is the owner of Eagle Creek Farm in Superior Township, Williams County, Ohio. The farm, consisting of eighty acres, combines farming and livestock operations. Byron is the son of William Williams (born September 9, 1833, in Tuscarawas County) and Mary (Simpson) Williams (born January 13, 1844, in Holmes County). William Williams was a prominent pioneer who cleared the land and established Eagle Creek Farm. Byron married Eliza Houk on April 1, 1899, and they have five children: Ernest, Wayne, Leland, Theresa, and Keith. The family is active in the Eagle Creek Methodist Episcopal Church.

Biography of Ora R. Manning

Ora R. Manning, born on January 17, 1875, in Deerfield, Michigan, is a traveling salesman residing in Pioneer, Williams County, Ohio. Initially working for the Interurban Electric Railway in Toledo, he later sold Hudson automobiles for seven years before focusing on candy sales in 1920. Manning married Alice M. Bartoe on September 4, 1907; Alice hails from Pioneer and owns 131 acres in Madison Township. They have an adopted son, James Lewis. Manning is a member of Pioneer Lodge No. 441, Free and Accepted Masons. The couple is well-regarded in their community.

Biography of G. Grant Stahl

G. Grant Stahl, born on June 16, 1880, in Perry County, Pennsylvania, is the proprietor of the Montpelier Creamery in Williams County, Ohio. After gaining extensive experience in the creamery business across Pennsylvania and New Jersey, Stahl purchased the Montpelier Creamery in 1910, growing it into a reputable establishment known for its Rose brand butter and milk supply. He owns significant property, including the creamery building, his residence, and an 80-acre farm. Married to Florence Rickey in 1908, they have seven children. Stahl is active in the Methodist Episcopal and Presbyterian churches, the Republican Party, and various Masonic orders.

Biography of B. E. Custer

B. E. Custer, born on March 28, 1877, in Superior Township, Williams County, Ohio, is a successful businessman and the current postmaster of Montpelier. Son of John and Lydia (Tumblin) Custer, B. E. worked as a barber for twelve years before transitioning to real estate and insurance, where he excelled. Appointed postmaster in 1913 and reappointed in 1917, he is known for his efficient service. Married to Zoa M. Haines, a Montpelier High School graduate, they are active members of the United Brethren Church. Custer is a dedicated Democrat and respected community figure.

Biography of William E. Riley

William E. Riley, born on September 3, 1867, in Bridgewater Township, Williams County, Ohio, is a prominent grain business owner in Montpelier. Son of Alfred and Eliza (Kollar) Riley, William took over the family farm at 21 before moving to Montpelier in 1895 to engage in the grain business, eventually becoming the sole owner of Riley & Son. Married to Eva Bailey on November 1, 1891, they have a daughter, Thelma. Active in the Knights of Pythias and a former village council member, William is respected for his integrity and business acumen.

Biography of Dr. Glen Biddle

Dr. Glen Biddle, born on August 19, 1889, in Wauseon, Fulton County, Ohio, is a distinguished veterinary surgeon in Bryan, Williams County, Ohio. He graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College and the University of Toronto in 1910. Since 1911, Dr. Biddle has successfully practiced in Bryan, earning a strong reputation in his field. He actively promotes livestock improvement as secretary and treasurer of the Williams County Holstein Breeders’ Company. Married to Iva Bard, Dr. Biddle is also a member of the Bryan Masonic Lodge and a supporter of the Republican Party. Dr. Glen Biddle. — One of the best known … Read more

Biography of George F. Gentit

George F. Gentit, born on March 6, 1872, near West Unity, Williams County, Ohio, is a respected farmer and stock-raiser in Springfield Township. Son of French natives Peter and Margaret (Mungo) Gentit, George owns 248 acres of well-maintained farmland. He married Eliza Goll in 1893, and they have three children: Alfred, Charles, and Francis. Active in the Lutheran Church and a trustee, George is also a stockholder in the Farmers’ Grain Elevator at Pulaski. Known for his sound judgment and community involvement, he enjoys a sterling reputation in his community.

Biography of George G. Bloom

George G. Bloom, born on November 20, 1863, in Pulaski Township, Williams County, Ohio, was a prominent and progressive farmer in Springfield Township. Son of Daniel W. and Elizabeth (Truxill) Bloom, George owned 303 acres of prime farmland. On February 25, 1883, he married Mary Wibirt, and they had four children: Clarence, Emmett, Ford, and Celia. George was an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and the Masonic Order, and a staunch Republican. His life was marked by industriousness and community service, earning him high esteem among his peers.

Biography of George M. Benner

George M. Benner was a self-made success story from Williams County, admired for his determination and ethical conduct in business. Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to Jacob and Irish-native Mary Benner in 1874, George moved to Ohio at a young age after his father’s death. He started his independent life as a farm laborer at 18 and eventually owned a thriving 60-acre farm where he focused on general farming and stock raising. On October 8, 1902, George married Mabel Thompson, and both were active in their Methodist Episcopal Church. Though politically active as a Republican, he did not seek office. George’s reputable character and business acumen earned him widespread respect in his community.