Living

Paul married Dorothy Marie Leeth. Dorothy (daughter of Harry Lindley Leeth and Hazel Marie Sunday) was born on 17 Oct 1921 in Paulding County, Ohio, United States; died on 6 Nov 2010 in Hillsdale County, Michigan, United States; was buried on 12 Nov 2010 in Jerome, Hillsdale County, Michigan, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events:

• Census: 1930, Haviland, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; as Dorothy M. Leeth, daughter, in the household of Harry Leeth; Address:
  Vine Street

Notes:

FEGLEY, DOROTHY MARIE - Dorothy Marie Fegley of Jerome, Michigan passed away Saturday, November 6, 2010 at the Hillsdale County Medical Care Facility. She was born October 17, 1921 in Haviland, Ohio the daughter of Harry and Hazel Leeth. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Paul Fegley; one son, William Fegley and her siblings. She is survived by one daughter, Diana (Hans) Byers of Jerome; five grandchildren, Kim Byers, Jamie (Erin Kimble) Byers, Paula (Tom) Reid, Susan Shaw and Scott Fegley; five great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; one brother, Sylvan (Ina) Leeth of Jackson and several nieces and nephews. Mrs. Fegley attended the Jerome United Methodist Church. A funeral service to honor the life of Mrs. Dorothy Marie Fegley will be held at the Hampton-Kurtz Funeral Home in Hillsdale on Friday, November 12, 2010 beginning at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Paul Hane officiating. Interment will take place in the Jerome Cemetery. The family will receive friends for visitation on Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home in Hillsdale. Friends who wish may make memorial contributions to Hospice of Hillsdale County. www.Mlive.com/obits
Hampton-Kurtz Funeral Home Hillsdale 517-437-0605
Published in Jackson Citizen Patriot on November 9, 2010

Other Events:

• Census: 1900, Harrison Township, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; as Harry L. Leeth, son in the household of Eleven Leth
• Census: 1910, Highland Township, Defiance County, Ohio, United States; as Harry L. Leeth, son, farm laborer, in the household Leven Leeth
• Physical Description: 5 Jun 1917; medium height, medium build, brown eyes and brown hair
• Military: 5 Jun 1917, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; registered for the WWI Draft
• Occupation: 5 Jun 1917, Antwerp, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; farmer; Address:
  Harrman and Son
• Residence: 5 Jun 1917, Antwerp, Paulding County, Ohio, United States
• Census: 1920, Antwerp, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; as Harry Leeth, railroad laborer, head of household; Address:
  River Street
• Newspaper: 30 Jul 1925; The Payne Reflector and Press Review (Payne, Ohio), 30 July 1925, p8
• Newspaper: 13 Aug 1925; Paulding County Republican (Paulding, Ohio), 13 August 1925, p8
• Census: 1930, Haviland, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; as Harry L. Leeth, laborer in clay works, head of household; Address:
  Vine Street
• Residence: 1935, Blue Creek Township, Paulding County, Ohio, United States
• Newspaper: 22 Jun 1939, Oakwood, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; Payne Couple Observe Three Events Sunday; Address:
  The Oakwood News
• Census: 1940, Blue Creek Township, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; as Harry Leeth, millrite in tile factory, head of household, same residence in 1935
• Physical Description: 27 Apr 1942; white, 5'6", 175 lbs, hazel eyes, brown hair and ruddy complexion
• Military: 27 Apr 1942, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; registered for the WWII Draft
• Residence: 27 Apr 1942, Latty, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; Address:
  R. 1
• Obituary: 23 Apr 1970; Newspaper unknown

Notes:

Newspaper:

Leeth-Wren Reunion
Last Sunday the Leeth-Wren families held their reunion at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Earl Leeth of northeast of town. Those present to enjoy the day were Mrs. Mary A. Leeth, Phyllis Harris, Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Hardesty of Paulding; C. L. Davisson and wife, Margaret Kilpatrick and Margaret Ohler of Round Head, Ohio; Mrs Manoah Miller and daughter Deane, Joe Miller and family B. L. Bailey and wife and Chas. Sidle and wife of Auburn, In.; A. V. Silvers and family, Frank Miller and family and Juaneta Leeth of Fort Wayne; Miss Leah Leeth of Detroit; Reed Windgardner and family of Lima; L. E. Leeth and family and Harry Leeth and family of Haviland, O.; C. M. Mayes and wife, W. J. Connor and family and John Leeth of Kansas City, Kansas; Emma W. Mertz and son Forest of Ada, O.; Clara W. Ford and son of Lafayette, O.; C. W. Wren and wife of Marysville, O.; H. F. Armentrout and family, Harry Green and family of Marion, O.; C. B. McColloch and wife of West Mansfield, O.; Jonas Cromley and family, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Wren and daughter of Antwerp; Soy Leeth and family of Defiance; Jonas Brown and family of Churubusco, Ind.; Chas. Leeth and family of Lancaster, O.; Geo. Williams and family of McComb, O.; Ed Carter and wife of Union City, Mich.; Harold Blank of Wapakoneta; Mrs. Maude B. Mulligan and Iona Outland of Lakewood, O.; Mrs. C. C. Dupler, Dale Stilwell and wife, Fred Wahl, Edward Wahl and family, Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Mathias and son Garret, M. M. Leeth and wife, Wm. Wren, Miss Berniece Stiwell, Mis Margaret Otis, S. D. Griswold and family, Earl Leeth and family, Wm. May A. E. Malcuit and wife and D. D. Leeth and family all of Payne.

Newspaper:

LEETH FAMILY REUNION
The 1925 reunion of the Leeth families and their connections was held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Earl Leeth, of near Payne.
An extra large number of relatives was in attendance and a fine time was had by all.
Following is a list of those who were present:
Mrs. Mary A. Leeth, Phyllis Harris, Mr. and Mrs. Eugene, Hardesty, of Paulding; O. L. Davission and wife, Margaret Kilpatrick and Margaret Ohler, of Round Head, Ohio; Mrs. Manoah Miller and daughter Deane, Joe Miller and family, B. L. Bailey and wife and Chas. Sidle and wife, of Auburn, Ind.; A. V. Silvers and family, Frank Miller and family and Juaneta Leeth, of Fort Wayne; Miss Leah Leeth, of Detroit; Reed Winegardner and family, of Lima; L. E. Leeth and family and Harry Leeth and family, of Haviland, O.; C. M. Mayes and wife, W. L. Connor and family and John Leeth, of Kansas City, Kansas; Emma W. Mertz and son Forest, of Ada, Ohio; Clara W. Ford and son, of Lafayette, Ohio; C. W. Wren and wife, of Marysville, Ohio; H. F. Armentrout and family, Harry Green and family, of Marion, Ohio; C. B. Colloch and wife, of West Mansfield, Ohio; Jonas Cromley and family, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Wren and daughter, of Antwerp; Soy Leeth and family, of Defiance; Jonas Brown and family, of Cherubusco, Ind.; Chas. Leeth and family of Lancaster, Ohio; Geo. Williams and family, of McComb, Ohio; Ed Carter and wife, of Union Cityk Mich.; Harold Blank, of Wapakoneta; Mrs. Maude M. Mulligan and Iona Outland of Lakewood, Ohio; Mrs. C. C. Dupler, Dale Stilwell and wife, Fred Wahl, Edward Wahl and family, Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Mathias and son Garret, M. M. Leeth and wife, Wm. Wren, Miss Bernice Stilwell, Miss Margaret Otis, S. D Griswold and family, Earl Leeth and family, Wm. May, A. E. Malcuit and wife and D. D Leeth and family, all of Payne.

Newspaper:

On Sunday, June 18th, Mr. and Mrs. Levan Leeth of Payne observed their 55th wedding anniversary, Father's Day, and Mrs. Leeth's 73rd birthday, with a dinner at noon to 40 relatives.

Physical Description:
Mashed finger on left hand.

Obituary:

Meets tragic death
PAYNE--Harry L. Leeth, 75, died Saturday at a hospital in Addison, Mich., from burns suffered Thursday—.The aged man was trying to light a bottle gas stove when it exploded. He lived alone in a house trailer at Jerome, Mich.
He was born Dec. 8, 1894, in Payne, Ohio, a son of Eleven and Louisa (Shelly) Leeth.
He is survived by four children, Mrs. Lela Snellenberger, Paulding, O., Mrs. Laurabelle Tatman, Jerome, Mich., Sylvan Leeth, Jackson, Mich., Joe, Manitou Beach, Mich., and Mrs. Dorothy Fegley, Jerome; four brothers, John M., Payne, Charles, Dayton, Dave, Coldwater, Mich., and Lafe, Briceton, O.; three sisters, Mrs. Rhoda Baughman, Holly, Mich., Mrs. Edith Brown, Rome City, Ind., and Mrs. Ethel Maxwell, Kendallville, Ind.
Mr. Leeth resided in Payne for a number of years.
Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. Monday at a funeral home in North Adams, Mich. Burial there.

Harry married Hazel Marie Sunday on 11 Jul 1914 in Paulding County, Ohio, United States. Hazel was born on 7 Sep 1893 in Antwerp, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; died on 2 Oct 1951 in Somerset, Hillsdale County, Michigan, United States; was buried in 1951 in Hillsdale County, Michigan, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events:

• Name: Dollie Sunday
• Census: 1920, Antwerp, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; as Hazel Leeth, wife, in the household of Harry Leeth; Address:
  River Street
• Newspaper: 30 Jul 1925; The Payne Reflector and Press Review (Payne, Ohio), 30 July 1925, p8
• Census: 1930, Haviland, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; as Hazel M. Leeth, wife, in the household of Harry Leeth; Address:
  Vine Street
• Residence: 1935, Blue Creek Township, Paulding County, Ohio, United States
• Census: 1940, Blue Creek Township, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; as Hazel Leeth, wife, in the household of Harry Leeth, same residence in 1935

Notes:

NEWSPAPER ARTICLE
Antwerp News
Mr. and Mrs. E. M. Sunday have gone to Flint, Mich., where if the prospects look good to them they will take up their permanent residence. They expect to spend the winter, as they have two daughters living there--Mrs. Will Harris and Mrs. Harry Leeth. (the Fort Wayne Daily News, Wednesday, October 13, pg. 8)

Newspaper:

Leeth-Wren Reunion
Last Sunday the Leeth-Wren families held their reunion at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Earl Leeth of northeast of town. Those present to enjoy the day were Mrs. Mary A. Leeth, Phyllis Harris, Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Hardesty of Paulding; C. L. Davisson and wife, Margaret Kilpatrick and Margaret Ohler of Round Head, Ohio; Mrs Manoah Miller and daughter Deane, Joe Miller and family B. L. Bailey and wife and Chas. Sidle and wife of Auburn, In.; A. V. Silvers and family, Frank Miller and family and Juaneta Leeth of Fort Wayne; Miss Leah Leeth of Detroit; Reed Windgardner and family of Lima; L. E. Leeth and family and Harry Leeth and family of Haviland, O.; C. M. Mayes and wife, W. J. Connor and family and John Leeth of Kansas City, Kansas; Emma W. Mertz and son Forest of Ada, O.; Clara W. Ford and son of Lafayette, O.; C. W. Wren and wife of Marysville, O.; H. F. Armentrout and family, Harry Green and family of Marion, O.; C. B. McColloch and wife of West Mansfield, O.; Jonas Cromley and family, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Wren and daughter of Antwerp; Soy Leeth and family of Defiance; Jonas Brown and family of Churubusco, Ind.; Chas. Leeth and family of Lancaster, O.; Geo. Williams and family of McComb, O.; Ed Carter and wife of Union City, Mich.; Harold Blank of Wapakoneta; Mrs. Maude B. Mulligan and Iona Outland of Lakewood, O.; Mrs. C. C. Dupler, Dale Stilwell and wife, Fred Wahl, Edward Wahl and family, Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Mathias and son Garret, M. M. Leeth and wife, Wm. Wren, Miss Berniece Stiwell, Mis Margaret Otis, S. D. Griswold and family, Earl Leeth and family, Wm. May A. E. Malcuit and wife and D. D. Leeth and family all of Payne.

Other Events:

• Name: Leaven Elias Leeth
• Name: Levin Elias Leeth
• Census: 1860, Pebble Township, Pike County, Ohio, United States; as Lavina Leeth, in the household of John Leeth, Jr.
• Census: 1870, Rushcreek Township, Logan County, Ohio, United States; as Leven Leeth, in the household of John Leeth
• Residence: 1872, Paulding County, Ohio, United States
• Census: 1880, Harrison Township, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; as Leven Leeth, boarder, farm laborer, in the household of Fred Wall
• Census: 1890, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; as Leven Elias Leeth, Jr
• Census: 1900, Harrison Township, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; as Eleven Leeth, farmer, head of household
• Census: 1910, Highland Township, Defiance County, Ohio, United States; as Leven Leeth, farm laborer, head of household
• Newspaper: 17 May 1913; The Fort Wayne Sentinel (Fort Wayne, Indiana), 17 May 1913, p3
• Newspaper: 10 Jun 1913; The Fort Wayne Sentinel (Fort Wayne, Indiana), 10 June 1913, p1
• Newspaper: 6 Sep 1917; The Payne Reflector and Press Review (Payne, Ohio), 6 September 1917, p8: Pioneers
• Newspaper: 30 Jul 1925; The Payne Reflector and Press Review (Payne, Ohio), 30 July 1925, p8
• Newspaper: 13 Aug 1925; Paulding County Republican (Paulding, Ohio), 13 August 1925, p8
• Census: 1930, Haviland, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; as Leaven E. Leeth, laborer/clay works, head of household; Address:
  Main Street
• Residence: 1935, Harrison Township, Paulding County, Ohio, United States
• Newspaper: 22 Jun 1939; Paulding Democrat (Paulding Ohio) 22 June 1939, p6
• Newspaper: 22 Jun 1939; The Oakwood News. Oakwood, Ohio, 22 June 1939, p1
• Census: 1940, Harrison Township, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; as Leven E. Leeth, head of household, same residence in 1935
• Newspaper: 31 Mar 1949; Paulding County Republican (Paulding, Ohio), 31 March 1949, p9
• Newspaper: 7 Apr 1949; The Payne Reflector and Press Review (Payne, Ohio), 7 April 1949, p1
• Newspaper: 15 Dec 1949; Paulding Progress (Paulding, Ohio), 15 December 1949, p1
• Obituary: 16 Jan 1952; Newspaper unknown - original clipping
• Obituary: 17 Jan 1952; The Payne Reflector and Press Review (Payne, Ohio) 17 Jaunary 1952, p1

Notes:

Leven Elias Leeth can be found in various records as Leaven, Leven, Elevin and Levan. I used the spelling most often found on his documents. I believe he was probably named after a great grandfather whose name was Levin Harnanson. Levin is the more common spelling for this name.

MEMORIES.... by Charlotte (Leeth) Beck
The thing I remember most about grandpa was that he never smiled, never cracked a joke, was very strict and very religious. He wore a long handlebar mustache and none of the kids liked it when he kissed them, including me. Grandpa and Grandma Leeth lived with us for awhile in Lancaster, Ohio.

Leven worked in the Tile Mills near East Liberty and after Almina died, he moved to Paulding.

NEWSPAPER ARTICLE
Antwerp News
W. A. Begleman and wife, who have been visiting here, the guests of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Levan Leeth, and family departed for their home, at Toledo, Monday. (Source: The Fort Wayne News, Fort Wayne, Indiana, Wednesday, November 15, 1916, pg. 9)

OBITUARY
January 1952, Payne, Paulding County, Ohio. LEVEN LEETH, son of John and Nancy Leeth, was born in Pike County, Ohio, March 17, 1856, and departed this life at the home of his son, John Payne, Ohio, about 5:30 o'clock Saturday afternoon, January 12, 1952, having reached the age of 95 years, 9 months and 27 days. Mr. Leeth was united in marriage to Louisa Shelly, April 3, 1884, and to them were born five sons and four daughters. Mr. Leeth lived a very religious life, was a faithful husband, a good father, a fine neighbor and a true friend to all who knew him. His surviving relatives are his wife; his five sons, John, of Payne, Ohio, Charles of Dayton, Ohio, Harry of Jerome, Mich., David of Latty, Ohio and Lafie E. of Briceton, Ohio; four daughters, Josephine Milligan of Milford Center, Ohio, Ethel Maxwell of Columbia City, Ind., Rhoda Baughman of Holly, Mich., and Edith Brown of Wawaka, Ind; thirty=six grandchildren, fifty-nine great-grandchildren, four great-great-grandchildren, and one sister-in-law, Mrs. Martin Leeth. (Church of the Nazarene)

OBITUARY
January 1952, Payne, Paulding County, Ohio. Leven Elis Leeth, 95, a resident of Payne 75 years, died Saturday afternoon at his home after a long illness. Surviving are his wife; five sons, John of Payne, Charles of Dayton, Harry of Jerome, Mich., David of Latty, and Lafie, of Briceton; four daughters, Mrs. Josephine Milligan of Milford Center, Mrs. Ethel Maxwell of Columbia City, Ind., Mrs. Edith Brown, Wawaka, Ind., and Mrs. Rhoada Baughman, Hooly Mich.; 36 grandchildren and 59 great-grandchildren. The body is at the Evans Funeral Home where friends may call after 10 a.m. today. Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Wednesday in the Church of the Nazarene, the Rev. F.J. Reed officiating. Burial will be in the Wiltsie Cemetery, east of here.

Newspaper:

L. E. Leeth was a Fort Wayne caller Fridey, being the guest while there of his brother, Earl and family.

Newspaper:

Antwerp News
Louis Brown and wife, of Baldwin, Ind. were Sunday guests at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. L. E. Leeth at this place.
Mrs. F. Maxwell and daughter Ethel, and sons Lester and Laurence, and the baby, of Grabill, Ind., were over Sunday visitors at the home of her parents, Mr and Mrs L E Leeth at this place.

Newspaper:

Part XLI
Pioneers
Shelley and Quince Families
Frances and Mary Jane (Shanberg) Shelley were natives of France, and members of the Catholic church. Mr. Shelley attended in Paris seven years, Mr. and Mrs. Francis Shelley were married in France and there in France were born seven children. Mary, Catherine, Mary Ann, Martha, Lovina, Henry and Victoria. Francis Jr., and Peter were born in this country. The family emigrated to America in 1831 and settled in Richland county. In 1840 the family came to Paulding county and entered 80 acres of land one mile north of Payne on north-east corner. They built their cabin where the home of Mr. Cox now stands. They lived there with their family until the death of Mr. Shelley, August 6 1866.
Mrs. Emma Bodey a grand-daughter remembers hearing them tell of the roof blowing off the cabin one night. The parents and daughters slept downstairs in the small cabin and the sons in the loft. This night a man way-farer was a guest and the boys and guest were compelled to descend quickly in abbreviated costumes. While the parents remained faithful to the Catholic faith, the children later joined the United Brethren church. After the death of her husband, Mrs. Shelley made her home with her son Henry Shelley who lived in the home at Lamb's corners and with her daughter Mrs. Quince. She died March 20, 1885, aged 94 years. Each of these sons were given on their marriage forty acres of land. Henry earned the forty acres across from the Hiram Underwood farm with the proceeds of night's coon hunting and sold it $75.00.
Mary the eldest daughter of Francis and Mary Jane Shanberg became the wife of John McGill. They lived just south of the Lehman school house south of bridge. Had no children. Catherine born in France, Sept. 8 1842, became the wife of Francis Quince in Richland county on Feb. 14, 1842. Their children were Mary died in infancy, Solomon born Nov. 5, 1845, Mary Cecil Radenbaugh born Sept. 10, 1847, Francis A., Aug. 2, 1849, died Aug. 10, 1880, Laura born July 27, 1852, died Nov. 8, 1879, Catherine born 1856, died 1860. Mary Ann married Solomon Mott of Vernon Junction, Ohio. Friends here only know of one daughter, Julia. Mrs. Mott is now living at the age of 90 years.
Martha chose for her husband, William Holmes and the family moved to Iowa, cannot ascertain names of children. Lovina married Maurice Keller and for many years lived on South Main street and built the house in which Miss Nellie Bradley lives. They had no children.
Henry Shelley was born near Paris, France, Dec. 26, 1829. He was two years of age when his parents came to this country. Henry Shelley was married three times. His first wife was Miss Abagail Chaney the daughter of Charles Chaney of this county, one son Charles was born to them. The wife died and Mr. Shelley married Miss Mahala Mikle, a sister of Daniel Mikle. Their children were Abram, Louisa the wife of L. Leeth and three deceased. Mrs. Mahala Shelley died in 1866. In 1869, Julia Myton the daughter of Robert and Rhoda Homan Myton of German lineage became the third wife. Their children were Carrie who died in 1883, Emma born May 21, 1875 and wife of Isaac Body. Victoria born Sept. 5, 1877. Ada May born May 23, 1881 and wife of George Fugate, and Lucy born June 27, 1889.
In 1864, Henry Shelley enlisted in Company H, One Hundred Sixty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry and served 100 days. He secured his honorable discharge. The family was highly-esteemed in the community. Mrs. Shelley died January 18, 1914. Mr. Shelley died March 8, 1904.
Victoria, born in France, March 20, 1831, became the wife of Hiram Northrup, of this family we will write later
Francis Shelley and Lucinda Myton a sister of the third wife of Henry Shelley were married in Allen county, Indiana, May 10, 1857. He was born in Richland county, Ohio, Feb. 7, 1837. She was born in Crawford county, Ohio, June 15, 1841. Their family are Mary J., born April 26, 1860, wife of Wm. Buerkle, Joseph F., born Dec. 28, 1865, Clarrissa A., born Aug. 30, 1869, wife of Fred White. Adalene was born Jan. 29, 1872, wife of Christ Peterson.
Francis Shelley served three years in the 68th Ohio during the Rebellion and was discharged at Savannah, Georgia. The home farm was across the road west of the Fred Wahl farm. Late in life Mr. Shelley bought the South Main street property of his brother-in-law Maurice Kelley. A few years ago he sold this and they moved to near Cincinnati. Mr. and Mrs. Shelley are still living. They were prominently identified with the United Brethren church.
Peter Shelley married Martha J. Payne in 1860. They had five sons and two daughters. We have no record of his death. Mrs. Shelley died June 23, 1917 at the age of 75 years at the home of her daughter Mrs. John H. Medsker of South Benton.
(Continued Next Week)

Newspaper:

Leeth-Wren Reunion
Last Sunday the Leeth-Wren families held their reunion at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Earl Leeth of northeast of town. Those present to enjoy the day were Mrs. Mary A. Leeth, Phyllis Harris, Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Hardesty of Paulding; C. L. Davisson and wife, Margaret Kilpatrick and Margaret Ohler of Round Head, Ohio; Mrs Manoah Miller and daughter Deane, Joe Miller and family B. L. Bailey and wife and Chas. Sidle and wife of Auburn, In.; A. V. Silvers and family, Frank Miller and family and Juaneta Leeth of Fort Wayne; Miss Leah Leeth of Detroit; Reed Windgardner and family of Lima; L. E. Leeth and family and Harry Leeth and family of Haviland, O.; C. M. Mayes and wife, W. J. Connor and family and John Leeth of Kansas City, Kansas; Emma W. Mertz and son Forest of Ada, O.; Clara W. Ford and son of Lafayette, O.; C. W. Wren and wife of Marysville, O.; H. F. Armentrout and family, Harry Green and family of Marion, O.; C. B. McColloch and wife of West Mansfield, O.; Jonas Cromley and family, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Wren and daughter of Antwerp; Soy Leeth and family of Defiance; Jonas Brown and family of Churubusco, Ind.; Chas. Leeth and family of Lancaster, O.; Geo. Williams and family of McComb, O.; Ed Carter and wife of Union City, Mich.; Harold Blank of Wapakoneta; Mrs. Maude B. Mulligan and Iona Outland of Lakewood, O.; Mrs. C. C. Dupler, Dale Stilwell and wife, Fred Wahl, Edward Wahl and family, Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Mathias and son Garret, M. M. Leeth and wife, Wm. Wren, Miss Berniece Stiwell, Mis Margaret Otis, S. D. Griswold and family, Earl Leeth and family, Wm. May A. E. Malcuit and wife and D. D. Leeth and family all of Payne.

Newspaper:

LEETH FAMILY REUNION
The 1925 reunion of the Leeth families and their connections was held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Earl Leeth, of near Payne.
An extra large number of relatives was in attendance and a fine time was had by all.
Following is a list of those who were present:
Mrs. Mary A. Leeth, Phyllis Harris, Mr. and Mrs. Eugene, Hardesty, of Paulding; O. L. Davission and wife, Margaret Kilpatrick and Margaret Ohler, of Round Head, Ohio; Mrs. Manoah Miller and daughter Deane, Joe Miller and family, B. L. Bailey and wife and Chas. Sidle and wife, of Auburn, Ind.; A. V. Silvers and family, Frank Miller and family and Juaneta Leeth, of Fort Wayne; Miss Leah Leeth, of Detroit; Reed Winegardner and family, of Lima; L. E. Leeth and family and Harry Leeth and family, of Haviland, O.; C. M. Mayes and wife, W. L. Connor and family and John Leeth, of Kansas City, Kansas; Emma W. Mertz and son Forest, of Ada, Ohio; Clara W. Ford and son, of Lafayette, Ohio; C. W. Wren and wife, of Marysville, Ohio; H. F. Armentrout and family, Harry Green and family, of Marion, Ohio; C. B. Colloch and wife, of West Mansfield, Ohio; Jonas Cromley and family, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Wren and daughter, of Antwerp; Soy Leeth and family, of Defiance; Jonas Brown and family, of Cherubusco, Ind.; Chas. Leeth and family of Lancaster, Ohio; Geo. Williams and family, of McComb, Ohio; Ed Carter and wife, of Union Cityk Mich.; Harold Blank, of Wapakoneta; Mrs. Maude M. Mulligan and Iona Outland of Lakewood, Ohio; Mrs. C. C. Dupler, Dale Stilwell and wife, Fred Wahl, Edward Wahl and family, Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Mathias and son Garret, M. M. Leeth and wife, Wm. Wren, Miss Bernice Stilwell, Miss Margaret Otis, S. D Griswold and family, Earl Leeth and family, Wm. May, A. E. Malcuit and wife and D. D Leeth and family, all of Payne.

Newspaper:

On Sunday, June 18th, Mr. and Mrs. Levan Leeth of Payne observed their 55th wedding anniversary, Father's Day, and Mrs. Leeth's 73rd birthday, with a dinner at noon to 40 relatives.
Seven of their eight children were present. John Leeth, of south of Payne; Ethel Maxwell, auburn, Indiana; Charles Leeth, Lancaster; Edith Brown, Rome City, Indiana; Harry Leeth, Haviland; Rhoda Baughman, Holly, Michigan; LaFayette Leeth, Haviland, David Leeth of Auburn, another son was unable to be at home.
The Leeths have 34 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. They have lived most of their life in and around Payne. Mr. Leeth is 84.

Newspaper:

Payne Couple Observe Three Events Sunday
On Sunday, June 18th, Mr. and Mrs. Levan Leeth of Payne observed their 55th wedding anniversary, Father's Day, and Mrs. Leeth's 73rd birthday with a dinner at noon to 40 relatives.
Seven of their eight children were present: John Leeth, of south of Payne; Ethel Maxwell, Auburn, Indiana; Charles Leeth, Lancaster; Edith Brown, Rome City, Indiana; Harry Leeth, Haviland; Rhoda Baughman, Holly, Michigan; LaFayette Leeth, Haviland, David Leeth of Auburn, another son, was unable to be at home.
The Leeths have 34 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. They have lived most of their life in and around Payne. Mr. Leeth is 84.

Newspaper:

To many people, this coming Sunday, April 3rd, won't mean much. it will be just another Sunday. but to Mr. and Mrs. Leven Leeth it will be a very special day, for it will mark their 65th year of married life.
Mr. and Mrs. Leeth are pictured above in their home one and one-half miles northeast of Tipton in Blue Creek township. They plan to spend the wedding anniversary day quietly at their home.
Yes, 65 years ago, in 1884, Leven Leeth and Louisa Shelly were united in the holy bonds of wedlock at the bride's home, north of Payne in Paulding County. And looking back over those 65 years Mr. Leeth who celebrated his 93rd birthday March 17th, and Mrs. Leeth will be 82 June 18th, both agree that they were all good years and happy ones. And they still are, for both Mr. and Mrs. Leeth are in remarkably good health and fine spirits—although they admit that they're beginning to notice their age a bit now and then.
Paulding County Native
Mrs. Leeth is a true Paulding County native, for she was born near Payne, and has lived here all her life. And although Mr. Leeth can now consider himself as one of the oldest residents in Paulding County, he is not a real native of the place, for he was born in Pike County, and lived in Logan County a number of years before he came to live with his family in Harrison Township.
Mr. Leeth still remembers when he first came to Paulding County in 1872 when he was only 16 years old. The old canal was still in commission at the time, and still being used for freight. However, it was not long before the last boat to leave Antwerp on the canal was loaded with lumber and made the historical last trip. Mr. Leeth can lay claim to a distinction of sorts, for he was one of the men that helped load the boat for its last trip.
Reservoir Incident
Outstanding among the recollections in his mind of the days long since gone by, is one about the blowing up of the reservoir, the waters of which covered the land of several farmers who had their farms taken from them when the reservoir was built.
He well remembers the feeling and talk that led up to the decision to blow it up, the quiet well organized group of 100 men or so, who loaded a half ton of dynamite into a wagon one night, calmly set the fuses and proceeded to blow the reservoir up. The water poured into the Maumee River, the men got their land back, no one was hurt, and as there was no following investigation, the whole incident turned out very successfully.
Remembers Civil War
Although to most of us, the Civil War is just something to be studied and read about in school, to Mr. Leeth it is a part of his memories of his childhood. He remembers the day an official rode up to his parents home on a bay horse to serve draft orders on his father and how his mother cried. However, his father did as so many of his time did—and paid the customary bounty (in his case it was $300) to a fellow to act as substitute in his place.
As a result, his father was still around at the time of Morgan's Raid on the area around Pike County, and was among the number of men who stood guard over various bridges to prevent Morgan from blowing them up.
Sixty-five years of married life have blessed the Leeth's with a family of nine children (five boys and four girls) and well over—believe it or not—one hundred grandchildren and great grandchildren. In addition to this amazing figure, they claim three great-great-grandchildren.
The children are: John Mathias, at home: Ethel, or Mrs. Frances Maxwell, near Fort Wayne; Charles Henry, West Manchester, Ohio; Annie Edith or Mrs. Johnas Brown, Rome City, Indiana; Harry Lindley, Fort Wayne; Rhoda Velta, or Mrs. Alfred Baughman, Holly, Michigan; David Edward, near Payne; and Lafayette Elias, Briceton. A daughter, Gertrude Louisa, died.

Newspaper:

Mr. and Mrs. Leven Leeth of near Tipton observed their sixty-fifth wedding anniversary on Sunday, April 3. They were married in 1884, at the bride's home, north of Payne. She was the former Louise Shelley.
Mr. Leeth was 93 years old on March 17, while Mrs. Leeth will be 82 on June 18.
Mr. Leeth was a native of Pike county, but has lived in Paulding county since 1872.
Mr. and Mrs. Leeth are the Parents of five sons and four daughters--John Leeth, at home, Mrs Francis Maxwell of near Fort Wayne, Charles Leeth of West Manchester, Mrs. Johnas Brown of Rome City, Ind., Harry L. Leeth of Fort Wayne, Mrs. Alfred Baughman of Holly, Mich., David Leeth of Near Payne and Lafayette Leeth of Briceton. A daughter, Gertrude Louise is deceased.

Obituary:

Payne Man, 95 Dies After Long Illness
Payne, O. — Leven Elias Leeth, 95 a resident of Payne 75 years, died Saturday afternoon at his home after a long illness.
Surviving are the wife, Louisa; five sons, John of Payne, Charles of Dayton, Harry of Jerome, Mich., David, Latty, and Lafie, Briceton; four daughters, Mrs. Josephine Milligan of Milford Center, Mrs. Ether Maxwell of Columbia City, Ind., Mrs. Edity Brown, Wawaka, Ind., and Mrs. Rhoada Baughman, Holly, Mich.; 36 grandchildren and 59 great-grandchildren.
The body is at the Evans Funeral Home, where friends may call after 10 a.m. today.
Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Wednesday in the Church of the Nazarene, the Rev. F. J. Reed officiating. Burial will be in the Wiltsie Cemetery, east of here.

Obituary:

Leven Leeth
Leven Leeth, son of John and Nancy Leeth, was born in Pike County, Ohio, March 17, 1856, and departed this life at the home of his son, John in Payne, Ohio, about 5:30 o'clock Saturday afternoon, January 12, 1952. Having reached the age of 95 years, 9 months and 27 days.
Mr. Leeth was united in marriage to Louisa Shelly, April 3, 1884, and to them were born five sons and four daughter.
Mr. Leeth lived a very religious life, was a faithful husband, a good father, a fine neighbor and a true friend to all who knew him.
His surviving relatives are his wife, Louisa; his five sons, John, of Payne, Ohio, Charles of Dayton, Ohio, Harry of Jerome, Mich., David of Latty, Ohio, and Lafie E., of Briceton, Ohio; four daughters, Josephine Milligan of Milford Center, Ohio, Ethel Maxwell of Columbia City, Ind., Rhoda Baughman of Holly, Mich, and Edith Brown of Wawaka, Ind.; thirty-six grandchildren, fifty-nine great-grandchildren, four great-great-grandchildren, and one sister-n-law, Mrs. Martin Leeth of Payne, Ohio.
The funeral, in charge of Paul Evans, was held Wednesday afternoon at 2:00 o'clock at the Church of the Nazarene, the Rev. F. J. Reed officiating. Burial in Wiltsie cemetery.

Leven married Louisa Mae Shelley on 3 Apr 1884 in Payne, Paulding County, Ohio, United States. Louisa (daughter of Henry Shelley and Mahala Mikle) was born on 18 Jun 1866 in Payne, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; died on 10 Mar 1952 in Payne, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; was buried on 13 Mar 1952 in Payne, Paulding County, Ohio, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events:

• Physical Description: Red hair
• Census: 1870, Harrison Township, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; as Louisa Shelly, in the household of Henry Shelly
• Census: 1880, Harrison Township, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; as Louisa Shelley, daughter, in the household of Henry Shelley
• Census: 1890, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; as Louise Shelley Leeth
• Census: 1900, Harrison Township, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; as Elizia Leeth, wife, in the household of Eleven Leth
• Census: 1910, Highland Township, Defiance County, Ohio, United States; as Louisa Leeth, wife, 9 children born, 8 living, in the household of Leven Leeth
• Newspaper: 6 Sep 1917; The Payne Reflector and Press Review (Payne, Ohio), 6 September 1917, p8: Pioneers
• Newspaper: 30 Jul 1925; The Payne Reflector and Press Review (Payne, Ohio), 30 July 1925, p8
• Census: 1930, Haviland, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; as Louisa Leeth, wife, in the household of Leaven E. Leeth; Address:
  Main Street
• Residence: 1935, Harrison Township, Paulding County, Ohio, United States
• Newspaper: 22 Jun 1939; Paulding Democrat (Paulding, Ohio), 22 June 1939, p6
• Newspaper: 22 Jun 1939; The Oakwood News. Oakwood, Ohio, 22 June 1939, p1
• Census: 1940, Harrison Township, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; as Louisa Leeth, wife, in the household of Leven E. Leeth, same residence in 1935
• Newspaper: 31 Mar 1949, Paulding, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; Tipton Couple Will Observe 65th Wedding Anniversary; Address:
  "Paulding County Republican"
• Newspaper: 7 Apr 1949, Payne, Paulding County, Ohio, United States; Celebrates 65th Wedding Anniversary; Address:
  "The Payne Reflector and Press Review"
• Newspaper: 29 Jun 1950; Paulding Progress (Paulding, Ohio), 29 June 1950, p2
• Obituary: 13 Mar 1952; Paulding Progress (Paulding, Ohio) 13 March 1952, p6
• Obituary: 20 Mar 1952; The Payne Reflector and Press Review (Payne, Ohio) 20 March 1952, p1
• Newspaper: 20 Apr 1961; Paulding Progress (Paulding, Ohio), 20 April 1961, p12

Notes:

MEMORIES... by Charlotte (Leeth) Beck
When my grandparents lived with us I remember grandma sitting on the porch drinking beer and eating saltine crackers. She would sit in the rocker, rocking back and forth, sipping on her beer and eating crackers until she got a little "tipsy" and giggled. Grandma liked to tell jokes and play practical jokes on people, but, grandpa did not care for either and would become irritated. I remember that she would never lift a finger to help my mother around the house, not even in child birth. My father said grandma was raised in a convent after her mother died but I don't know where or have proof.

NEWSPAPER ARTICLE
Payne, O., Dec. 4, -- Last Wednesday evening occurred the installation of the Hesperian chapter of the Eastern Stars. The installing officer being Past Worthy Matron, Mrs. Clara Graham and Marshall Mrs. Clara Graham and Marshall Mrs. Nellie Evans. the new officers installed were Worthy Matron Mrs. Jennie Hoaglin; Worthy Patron, Mr. Gilbert Miller; Associate Matron, Mrs. Florence Wanl; Secretary, Mrs. Clara Graham; Treasurer, Mrs. Florence Cartwright; Chaplain, Mrs. Mollie Smith, conductress, Mrs. Lola Lautzenheiser: associated condructress, Mrs. Minnie Pugh; Adnh, Mrs. Cora Poland; Ruth, Mrs. Bertha miller; Esther, Mrs. Gertrude Ptak, Martha, Mrs. Louisa leeth; Electa, Mrs. Adelaide Prentice; organist, Mrs. Sarah McHenry; Marshall, Miss Mina McClure, after the ceremony the chapter served a splendid banquet to which their husbands were invited. Col. N. E. Prentice gave a fine reading and Mrs. C. E. Craig, Mrs. K. C. Evans, Supt. A. F. Ptak and Mr. Gilbert Miller gave a delightful musical program. (The Fort Wayne Journal-Gazette, Sunday Morning, December 5, 1915, pg. 5)




Newspaper:

Part XLI
Pioneers
Shelley and Quince Families
Frances and Mary Jane (Shanberg) Shelley were natives of France, and members of the Catholic church. Mr. Shelley attended in Paris seven years, Mr. and Mrs. Francis Shelley were married in France and there in France were born seven children. Mary, Catherine, Mary Ann, Martha, Lovina, Henry and Victoria. Francis Jr., and Peter were born in this country. The family emigrated to America in 1831 and settled in Richland county. In 1840 the family came to Paulding county and entered 80 acres of land one mile north of Payne on north-east corner. They built their cabin where the home of Mr. Cox now stands. They lived there with their family until the death of Mr. Shelley, August 6 1866.
Mrs. Emma Bodey a grand-daughter remembers hearing them tell of the roof blowing off the cabin one night. The parents and daughters slept downstairs in the small cabin and the sons in the loft. This night a man way-farer was a guest and the boys and guest were compelled to descend quickly in abbreviated costumes. While the parents remained faithful to the Catholic faith, the children later joined the United Brethren church. After the death of her husband, Mrs. Shelley made her home with her son Henry Shelley who lived in the home at Lamb's corners and with her daughter Mrs. Quince. She died March 20, 1885, aged 94 years. Each of these sons were given on their marriage forty acres of land. Henry earned the forty acres across from the Hiram Underwood farm with the proceeds of night's coon hunting and sold it $75.00.
Mary the eldest daughter of Francis and Mary Jane Shanberg became the wife of John McGill. They lived just south of the Lehman school house south of bridge. Had no children. Catherine born in France, Sept. 8 1842, became the wife of Francis Quince in Richland county on Feb. 14, 1842. Their children were Mary died in infancy, Solomon born Nov. 5, 1845, Mary Cecil Radenbaugh born Sept. 10, 1847, Francis A., Aug. 2, 1849, died Aug. 10, 1880, Laura born July 27, 1852, died Nov. 8, 1879, Catherine born 1856, died 1860. Mary Ann married Solomon Mott of Vernon Junction, Ohio. Friends here only know of one daughter, Julia. Mrs. Mott is now living at the age of 90 years.
Martha chose for her husband, William Holmes and the family moved to Iowa, cannot ascertain names of children. Lovina married Maurice Keller and for many years lived on South Main street and built the house in which Miss Nellie Bradley lives. They had no children.
Henry Shelley was born near Paris, France, Dec. 26, 1829. He was two years of age when his parents came to this country. Henry Shelley was married three times. His first wife was Miss Abagail Chaney the daughter of Charles Chaney of this county, one son Charles was born to them. The wife died and Mr. Shelley married Miss Mahala Mikle, a sister of Daniel Mikle. Their children were Abram, Louisa the wife of L. Leeth and three deceased. Mrs. Mahala Shelley died in 1866. In 1869, Julia Myton the daughter of Robert and Rhoda Homan Myton of German lineage became the third wife. Their children were Carrie who died in 1883, Emma born May 21, 1875 and wife of Isaac Body. Victoria born Sept. 5, 1877. Ada May born May 23, 1881 and wife of George Fugate, and Lucy born June 27, 1889.
In 1864, Henry Shelley enlisted in Company H, One Hundred Sixty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry and served 100 days. He secured his honorable discharge. The family was highly-esteemed in the community. Mrs. Shelley died January 18, 1914. Mr. Shelley died March 8, 1904.
Victoria, born in France, March 20, 1831, became the wife of Hiram Northrup, of this family we will write later
Francis Shelley and Lucinda Myton a sister of the third wife of Henry Shelley were married in Allen county, Indiana, May 10, 1857. He was born in Richland county, Ohio, Feb. 7, 1837. She was born in Crawford county, Ohio, June 15, 1841. Their family are Mary J., born April 26, 1860, wife of Wm. Buerkle, Joseph F., born Dec. 28, 1865, Clarrissa A., born Aug. 30, 1869, wife of Fred White. Adalene was born Jan. 29, 1872, wife of Christ Peterson.
Francis Shelley served three years in the 68th Ohio during the Rebellion and was discharged at Savannah, Georgia. The home farm was across the road west of the Fred Wahl farm. Late in life Mr. Shelley bought the South Main street property of his brother-in-law Maurice Kelley. A few years ago he sold this and they moved to near Cincinnati. Mr. and Mrs. Shelley are still living. They were prominently identified with the United Brethren church.
Peter Shelley married Martha J. Payne in 1860. They had five sons and two daughters. We have no record of his death. Mrs. Shelley died June 23, 1917 at the age of 75 years at the home of her daughter Mrs. John H. Medsker of South Benton.
(Continued Next Week)

Newspaper:

Leeth-Wren Reunion
Last Sunday the Leeth-Wren families held their reunion at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Earl Leeth of northeast of town. Those present to enjoy the day were Mrs. Mary A. Leeth, Phyllis Harris, Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Hardesty of Paulding; C. L. Davisson and wife, Margaret Kilpatrick and Margaret Ohler of Round Head, Ohio; Mrs Manoah Miller and daughter Deane, Joe Miller and family B. L. Bailey and wife and Chas. Sidle and wife of Auburn, In.; A. V. Silvers and family, Frank Miller and family and Juaneta Leeth of Fort Wayne; Miss Leah Leeth of Detroit; Reed Windgardner and family of Lima; L. E. Leeth and family and Harry Leeth and family of Haviland, O.; C. M. Mayes and wife, W. J. Connor and family and John Leeth of Kansas City, Kansas; Emma W. Mertz and son Forest of Ada, O.; Clara W. Ford and son of Lafayette, O.; C. W. Wren and wife of Marysville, O.; H. F. Armentrout and family, Harry Green and family of Marion, O.; C. B. McColloch and wife of West Mansfield, O.; Jonas Cromley and family, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Wren and daughter of Antwerp; Soy Leeth and family of Defiance; Jonas Brown and family of Churubusco, Ind.; Chas. Leeth and family of Lancaster, O.; Geo. Williams and family of McComb, O.; Ed Carter and wife of Union City, Mich.; Harold Blank of Wapakoneta; Mrs. Maude B. Mulligan and Iona Outland of Lakewood, O.; Mrs. C. C. Dupler, Dale Stilwell and wife, Fred Wahl, Edward Wahl and family, Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Mathias and son Garret, M. M. Leeth and wife, Wm. Wren, Miss Berniece Stiwell, Mis Margaret Otis, S. D. Griswold and family, Earl Leeth and family, Wm. May A. E. Malcuit and wife and D. D. Leeth and family all of Payne.

Newspaper:

On Sunday, June 18th, Mr. and Mrs. Levan Leeth of Payne observed their 55th wedding anniversary, Father's Day, and Mrs. Leeth's 73rd birthday, with a dinner at noon to 40 relatives.
Seven of their eight children were present. John Leeth, of south of Payne; Ethel Maxwell, auburn, Indiana; Charles Leeth, Lancaster; Edith Brown, Rome City, Indiana; Harry Leeth, Haviland; Rhoda Baughman, Holly, Michigan; LaFayette Leeth, Haviland, David Leeth of Auburn, another son was unable to be at home.
The Leeths have 34 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. They have lived most of their life in and around Payne. Mr. Leeth is 84.

Newspaper:

Payne Couple Observe Three Events Sunday
On Sunday, June 18th, Mr. and Mrs. Levan Leeth of Payne observed their 55th wedding anniversary, Father's Day, and Mrs. Leeth's 73rd birthday with a dinner at noon to 40 relatives.
Seven of their eight children were present: John Leeth, of south of Payne; Ethel Maxwell, Auburn, Indiana; Charles Leeth, Lancaster; Edith Brown, Rome City, Indiana; Harry Leeth, Haviland; Rhoda Baughman, Holly, Michigan; LaFayette Leeth, Haviland, David Leeth of Auburn, another son, was unable to be at home.
The Leeths have 34 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. They have lived most of their life in and around Payne. Mr. Leeth is 84.

Newspaper:

—To many people, this coming Sunday, April 3rd, won't mean much. It will be just another Sunday. But to Mr. and Mrs. Leven Leeth it will be a very special day, for it will mark their 65th year of married life.Mr. and Mrs. Leeth are pictured above in their home one and one-half miles northeast of Tipton in Blue Creek township. They plan to spend the wedding anniversary day quietly at their home.
—Yes, 65 years ago, in 1884, Lven Leeth and Louisa Shelly were united in the holy bonds of wedlock at the bride
s home, north of Payne in Paulding County. And looking back over those 65 years Mr. Leeth who celebrated his 93rd birthday March 17th, and Mrs. Leeth will be 82 Junde 18th, both agree that they were all good years and happy ones. And they still are, for both Mr. and Mrs. Leeth are in remarkably good health and fine spirits - although they admit that they're beginning to notice their age a bit now and then.
—Paulding County Native
Mrs. Leeth is a true Paulding County native, for she was born near Payne, and has lived here all her life. And although Mr. Leeth can now consider himself as one of the oldest residents in Paulding County, he is not a real native of the place, for he was born in Pike County, and lived in Logan County a number of years before he came to live with his family in Harrison Township.
—Mr Leeth still remembers when he first came to Paulding County in 1872 when he was only 16 years old. The old canal was still in commission at the time, and still being used for freight. However, it was not long before the last boat to leave Antwerp on the canal was loaded with lumber and made the historical last trip. Mr Leeth can lay claim to a distinction of sorts, for he was one of the men that helped load the boat for its last trip.
—Reservoir Incident
Outstanding among the recollections in his mind of the days long since gone by, is one about the blowing up of the reservoir, the waters of which covered the land of several farmers who had their farms taken from them when the reservoir was built.
—He well remembers the feeling and talk that led up to the decision to blow it up, the quiet well organized group of 100 men or so, who loaded a half ton of dynamite into a wagon one night, calmly set the fuses and proceeded to blow the reservoir up. The water poured into the Maumee River, the men got their land back, no one was hurt, and as there was no following investigation, the whole incident turned out very successfully.
—Remembers Civil War
Although to most of us, the Civil War is just something to be studied and read about in school, to Mr. Leeth it is a part of his memories of his childhood. He remembers the day an official rode up to his parents home on a bay horse to serve draft orders on his father and how his mother cried. However, his father did as so many of his time did-and paid the customary bounty (in his case it was $300) to a fellow to act as substitute in his place.
—As a result, his father was still around at the time of Morgan's Raid on the area around Pike County, and was among the number of men who stood guard over various bridges to prevent Morgan from blowing them up.
—Sixty-five years of married life have blessed the Leeth's with a family of nine children )five boys and four girls) and well over-believe it or not-one hundred grandchildren and great grandchildren. In addition to this amazing figure, they claim three great-great-grandchildren.
—The children are: John Mathias, at home; Ethel, or Mrs. Frances Maxwell, near Fort Wayne; Charles Henry, West Manchester, Ohio; Annie Edith or Mrs. Johnas Brown, Rome City, Indiana; Harry Lindley, Fort Wayne; Rhoda Velta, or Mrs. Alfred Baughman, Holly, Michigan; David Edward, near Payne; and Lafayette Elias, Briceton. A daughter, Gertrude Louisa, died.

Newspaper:

—Mr. and Mrs. Leven Leeth of near Tipton observed their sixty-fifth wedding anniversary on Sunday, April 3. They were married in 1884, at the bride's home, north of Payne. She was the former Louise Shelley.
—Mr. Leeth was 93 years old on March 17, while Mrs. Leeth will be 82 on June 18.
—Mr. Leeth was a native of Pike county, but has lived in Paulding county since 1872.
Mr. and Mrs. Leeth are the Parents of five sons and four daughters--John Leeth, at home, Mrs Francis Maxwell of near Fort Wayne, Charles Leeth of West Manchester, Mrs. Johnas Brown of Rome City, Ind., Harry L. Leeth of Fort Wayne, Mrs. Alfred Baughman of Holly, Mich., David Leeth of Near Payne and Lafayette Leeth of Briceton. A daughter, Gertrude Louise is deceased.

Newspaper:

John Leeth of Payne and Mrs Georgia Stallbaum spent Friday and Saturday with his sister Mrs. Rhoda Baughman, at Holly, Michigan. Mrs. Baughman, accompained them home to help care for her mother, Mrs. Leeth who is quite ill at the Paulding Hospital.

Obituary:

Mrs. Lovisa Leeth
Dies At Payne
Mrs. Louisa Leeth, 85, widow of Levan Leeth, died early Monday night at her home in Payne after a long illness. Surviving are five sons, John of Payne, Charles of Dayton, Harry of Jerome, Mich., David, Latty, and Lafie, Briceton; four daughters, Mrs. Josephine Milligan of Milford Center, Mrs. Ether Maxwell of Columbia City, Ind., Mrs. Edith Brown, Wawaka, and Mrs. Rhoda Baughman, Holly, Mich.; 26 grandchildren and 59 great-grandchildren. The body, at the Evans Funeral Home, will be taken at noon Thursday to the Church of the Nazarene for services at 2 o'clock, the Rev. F. J. Reed officiating. Burial will be in the Wiltsie Cemetery, east of Payne.

Obituary:

Louisa Shelly Leeth, daughter of Henry and Lucinda Leeth, was born June 18, 1866 at Payne, Ohio, and departed this March 10, 1952, at the home of her son, at the age of 85 years, 8 months and 22 days, after a long illness.
She was united in marriage to Leven Leeth, April 3, 1884, and to this union were born nine children-five sons and four daughters.
Her husband preceded her in death a few weeks ago.
She is survived by her sons, John of Payne, Charles of Dayton, Harry of Jerome, Mich., David of Latty, Lafie of Briceton; four daughters, Mrs. Josephine Milligon of Milford Center, Ohio, Mrs. Ethel Maxwell of Columbia City, Ind., Mrs. Edith Brown of Wawaka, Ind., and Mrs. Rhoda Baughman of Holly, Michigan; also 36 grandchildren and 59 great-grandchildren.
The funeral, in charge of Paul Evans, was held Thursday afternoon at the Church of the Nazarene, the Rev. F. J. Reed officiating. Burial in the Wiltsie cemetery.
The family of Mrs. Louisa Shelley Leeth wishes to thank the friends, neighbors and relatives for their kind expression of sympathy, also for the floral tributes. Especially we wish to thank Rev. Reed, the singers and the ladies that were so good to prepare and serve the dinner.

Newspaper:

Public Auction
Modern Home & Furniture
Payne, Ohio
Saturday Morning April 22nd, 10 A.M.
Location: 314 North Main St. in Payne, Ohio
Modern Family Home & Misc. Furniture
4 Bedroom 2 story modern home, large living room, dining room, kitchen with built in features, ample closet space, complete bath, porches, Basement & Furnace. Basically this home is in good repair but needs redecorated. 2 Car garage and large shaded lot close to the Payne Business district and in a good residential area. This will make someone a good family home with a small immediate cash expenditure for repairs. Make your financial arrangements prior to Sale Date and come prepared to buy.
TERMS: $1000 Down payment Day of Sale. Balance on Delivery of Good Deed & Certificate of Title.
POSSESSION: On or before Settlement in Full.
Furniture: Cash.
Ida Hardesty - Administrator of the Estate of Louisa Leeth - deceased.

Notes:

NEWSPAPER ARTICLE
TIPTON, O., COUPLE WILL MARK 65TH ANNIVERSARY OF WEDDING
.....Paulding, O., March 31.--Sunday will be a special day for Mr. and Mrs. Leven Leeth, of Tipton. It will be their anniversary of 65 years of married life.
.....Leven Leeth and Louise Shelly were married 65 years ago, in 1884 at the bride's home, north of Payne, in Paulding County. Mr. Leeth who celebrated his 93rd birthday March 17, and Mrs. Leeth who will be 82 June 18, agree that the 65 years have been happy ones.
.....Mrs. Leeth is a Paulding County native. She was born near Payne, and has lived in the county all of her life. But although Mr. Leeth, one of the oldest residents in Paulding County, was born in Pike County, and lived in Logan County a number of years before he came to live with his family in Harrison Township.
.....Helped Load Canal Boat. Mr. Leeth still remembers arriving in Paulding County in 1872, when he was 16 years old. The old canal was still being used for freight. However, it was not long before the last boat left Antwerp for the historic last trip. Mr. Leeth was among the crew who loaded that last boat.
.....The Civil War belongs in the memories of Mr. Leeth's childhood. He remembers the day an official rode up to his parents home to serve draft orders on his father. However, his father followed the custom of the time and paid a bounty for a substitute to fight in his place.
.....The Leeths have a family of nine children (five boys and four girls) and well over one hundred grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In addition, they claim that this huge family has been increased by the birth of three great-great-grandchildren.
.....The Leeth children include, John Mathias, at home; Ethel, or Mrs. Frances Maxwell, near Fort Wayne; Charles Henry, West Manchester; Annie, or Mrs. Jonas Brown, Rome City, Ind.; Harry, Fort Wayne; Rhoda, or Mrs. Alfred Baughman, Holly, Mich.; David, of Payne; and Lafayette, Briceton. A daughter, Gertrude Louisa is dead. (Source: Taken from paper in Payne, Ohio 1949)