Laura Emma Sellers

Other Events:

• Religion: Methodist Episcopal Church
• Census: 1850, Clear Creek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as Laura E. Sellers, in the household of Ferdinand Sellers
• Census: 1860, Chester Township, Clinton County, Ohio, United States; as Laura E. Sellers, in the household of Fred Sellers
• Census: 1870, Turtlecreek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as Laura Lackey, in the household of Ellsworth Lackey
• Census: 1880, Spring Valley, Greene County, Ohio, United States; as Laura Lackey, wife, in the household of Enos Lackey
• Census: 1900, New Burlington, Clinton County, Ohio, United States; as Laura E. Lackey, wife, 3 chidren/3 living, in the household of Ellsworth Lackey
• Census: 1910, Xenia, Greene County, Ohio, United States; as Laura Lackey, mother, widow, 3 children/2 living, own income, in the household of son Burt Lackey; Address:
  20 Home Avenue
• Census: 1920, Xenia, Greene County, Ohio, United States; as Laura S. Lackey, widow, head of household; Address:
  Manhattan Apts., 95 N. Detroit Street
• Correspondence: 31 Aug 1920; letter to Helen
• Residence: 1922, Xenia, Greene County, Ohio, United States; Address:
  102 North Detroit
• Obituary: 30 Oct 1924; Dayton Daily News (Dayton, Ohio) 30 October 1924, p11

Notes:

Correspondence:

Dear little Helen,
—I was very glad to get your letter. Yes I think Charles Cummings is a mate for Charles Batteford in size any way. I am so glad the you are having such a good time. So nice that you could go and enjoy the country next week you will have to get down to studying.
—Your papa brought Mary up yesterday morning and she stayed all day with me we had a fine time. She took a long nap in the morning also one in the afternoon was just as gold. I gave her some custard when she ate her dinner and when she was eating a lunch in the afternoon of rice, she pointed out to the Ice chest & wanted custard. I asked her if that was what she wanted & she nodded her head and said yes in her way. When her papa came to take her home she said at first she did not want to go but changed her mind when he was ready to start. I must close this and get to my ironing with much love to you both. Also to Uncle Walter & Aunt Lou.
Your loving Grandma
I think everything is going along fine if you and Dorothy are away for a time.

Obituary:

Xenia, Oct. 30. — Mrs. Laura Lackey, widow of E. E. Lackey, died at the home of her son, Dr. Burt L. Lackey, Home Ave., aat 9 o'clock last night. She had been ill several months and recently her condition became critical. Funeral services will be announced later.

Laura married Ellsworth Enos Lackey on 26 Sep 1867 in Springboro, Warren County, Ohio, United States. Ellsworth (son of Enos Lackey and Matilda Irwin) was born on 30 Sep 1844 in Warren County, Ohio, United States; died on 9 Jan 1903 in Xenia, Greene County, Ohio, United States; was buried on 12 Jan 1903 in New Burlington, Clinton County, Ohio, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Married:

NEWSPAPER: The Western Star (Lebanon, Ohio), 3 October 1867, p5
Marriages.
Lackey-Sellers-On Thursday, Sept. 26th, at the Parsonage in Springboro, by Rev. Geo. W. Kelley, Mar. Ellsworth Lackey and Miss Laura Sellers.

1. Walter Varian Lackey was born on 23 Jan 1869 in Turtlecreek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; died on 29 Dec 1943 in Spring Valley, Greene County, Ohio, United States; was buried on 31 Dec 1943 in Corwin, Warren County, Ohio, United States.
2. Raymond Lawson Lackey was born on 11 Jul 1870 in Turtlecreek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; died on 1 Sep 1907 in New Burlington, Chester Township, Clinton County, Ohio, United States; was buried in Sep 1907 in New Burlington, Chester Township, Clinton County, Ohio, United States.
3. Dr. Burt LaFetra Lackey was born on 15 Jun 1872 in New Burlington, Chester Township, Clinton County, Ohio, United States; died on 16 Oct 1960 in Xenia, Greene County, Ohio, United States; was buried in Oct 1960 in Xenia, Greene County, Ohio, United States.

Other Events:

• Occupation: Ohio, United States; Farmer, operated a sawmill, general merchandising and postmaster in
• Census: 1850, Clear Creek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as Ferdinand Sellers, huckster, head of household
• Census: 1860, Chester Township, Clinton County, Ohio, United States; as Fred Sellers, merchant, head of household
• Military: 21 Oct 1861, New Burlington, Clinton County, Ohio, United States; as Private, Co. A, 149 Ohio Infantry
• Military: 16 Oct 1862; was discharged from the military
• Military: Jun 1863; was subject to do military duty in the 6th Congressional District
• Beneficiary: 5 Jul 1869; in the will of his father, William R. Sellers
• Executor: 5 Jul 1869; Ferdinand Sellers and Robert Sellers were named executors in the will of their father, William Runkle Sellers
• Census: 1870, Clear Creek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as Ferdinand Sellers, farm laborer, head of household
• Newspaper: 8 Feb 1872; The Weekly Western Star. Lebanon, Ohio, 8 February 1872, p2
• Census: 1880, Spring Valley Township, Greene County, Ohio, United States; as Ferdinand Sellers, farmer, head of household
• Census: 1890, Clinton County, Ohio, United States; as Ferdinand Sellers, Private, Co. A, 149 Ohio Infantry; Address:
  New Burlington
• Newspaper: 20 Feb 1890; The Western Star (Lebanon, Ohio), 20 February 1890, p4

Notes:

Mentioned in the will of William R. Sellers as Ferdinand Sellers, also as one of the executors.

An 1850 Warren County, census record shows the couple living in Clear Creek, and Ferdinand working as a huckster. However, A. Clark Lackey "Always understood that Great Grandfather Sellers was a cabinet maker." Later census records have him working as a farm laborer and a farmer. In later life Ferdinand Sellers lived in Springfield, Ohio with his daughter Addie, who took care of him until his death. [Source: Compiled and written by David Randolph Sellers, "A History and Genealogy of the Sellers Family", Cincinnati, Ohio: Robbins Advertising, Inc., 1966]

Will:
WILL
Springfield, Ohio 1910
—..I, Ferd. Sellers, being of a sound mind and setting of my own free will, do make herby my last will and testament.
—I desire, first, thast suitable markers should be placed at the graves of my beloved wife and myself and that the expenses of this and also my funeral be paid in full.
—..I will and bequeath Twenty five dollars ($25.00) each to the Women's Home and Foreign Missionary Societies of the Methodist Episcopal church.
—..After the payment of the above enumerated expenses and the bequests specified, I will and bequeath to my beloved daughter, Addie Sellers, all my remaining property of every character and description without reserve, and request that my son Harry H. Sellers and the beneficiary herein named act without bond and without compensation as joint administrators of my estate.
—..Signed in the presence of (signature) F. Sellers
Witnesses:
J. C. Baker
Geo. Burroughs
D. R. Fox

Newspaper:

Probate Notice
The following names persons, to-wit:
Robert and Ferdinand Sellers ex'rs of William R. Sellers, deceased. 1st account

Census:

Also in this household is William Hull, age 29, servant

Census:
DW 284-194
Ferdinand Sellers, Private, Co. A, 149 Ohio Infantry, Enlisted: Oct 21, 1861, Discharged: Oct. 16, 1862, Length of Service: 9m 7d, Post Office: New Burlington, Ohio

Newspaper:

New Burlington
Ferdinand Sellers had a sale Tuesday.

Ferdinand married Rebecca Hormell on 18 Feb 1847 in Warren County, Ohio, United States. Rebecca (daughter of Henry Hormell, Jr. and Margaret Fry) was born on 27 May 1828 in Ridgeville, Warren County, Ohio, United States; died on 9 Mar 1887 in New Burlington, Chester Township, Clinton County, Ohio, United States; was buried in Mar 1887 in Corwin, Warren County, Ohio, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events:

• Census: 1850, Clear Creek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as Rebecca Sellers, in the household of Ferdinand Sellers
• Census: 1860, Chester Township, Clinton County, Ohio, United States; as Rebecca Sellers, in the household of Fred Sellers
• Census: 1870, Clear Creek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as Rebecca Sellers, in the household of Ferdinand Sellers
• Census: 1880, Spring Valley Township, Greene County, Ohio, United States; as Rebecca Sellers, wife, in the household of Ferdinand Sellers

Notes:

OBITUARY
Sellers - Rebecca Hormell was born May 27, 1828. She was converted and joined the Church in her 14th year. She never missed a prayer or class meeting when she could attend. She was married to Ferdinand Sellers, Feb. 18, 1847. There were born to them 9 children, 7 of whom survive.

All are in the church, and one, O. M. Sellers, is a minister. For over 30 years her house was the preacher's home. When confined at home and in bed, the family had to repreach the sermon to her. For 15 years she was a constant sufferer, often at the point of death. Three times in two years we looked for her death daily. She said "I live in sight of death." A short time before her death she called her husband to her and said "O help me to praise the Lord for His goodness to me." A little later she repeated the 23rd Psalm till her voice failed: "Though I walk," etc. She whispered. "Yes, yes, yes!" She died march 9, 1887. [Source: Compiled and written by David Randolph Sellers, "A History and Genealogy of the Sellers Family", (Cincinnati, Ohio: Robbins Advertising, Inc., 1966), pg. 5, 7]

Other Events:

• Religion: Methodist
• Name: 1816; William Runkle Zellers
• Census: 1830, Turtlecreek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as William R. Sellers
• Newspaper: 3 Apr 1830; Look Here
• Newspaper: 2 Dec 1836; John M. Houston vs. W. R. Sellers and others
• Census: 1840, Clear Creek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as William R. Sellers
• Census: 1850, Clear Creek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as William Sellers, farmer, head of household
• Beneficiary: 12 May 1852; in the will of his father, Jacob Sellers
• Census: 1860, Clear Creek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as William Sellers, farmer, head of household
• Will: 5 Jul 1869, Warren County, Ohio, United States
• Census: 1870, Clear Creek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as William R. Sellers, farmer, head of household
• Probate: 3 Oct 1870, Warren County, Ohio, United States
• Newspaper: 2 Feb 1872; The Weekly Western Star. Lebanon, Ohio, 8 February 1872, p2

Notes:

It was during the canal boat age, when William R. Sellers was at his prime, that an omnibus stagecoach line operated between Lebanon and Cincinnati, often terminating in the former city at The Golden Lamb, the oldest inn in Ohio. A man who drove this coach was named William Sellers. An advertisement written and signed by William Sellers is reproduced on the back cover of the menu of The Golden Lamb's restaurant. The author (David Randolph Sellers) believes that this man was merely a contemporary, at most a distant relation, of the William R. Sellers. William R. Sellers was a farmer in Clear Creek Township, and census records suggest that he remained there until his death on September 28, 1870. His wife died on July 3, 1873. The couple were buried in Kirby Cemetery, a few miles north of Lebanon. [Source: Compiled and written by David Randolph Sellers, "A History and Genealogy of the Sellers Family", Cincinnati, Ohio: Robbins Advertising, Inc., 1966]

Newspaper:

LOOK HERE,
The undersigned Trustees, wish to contract for the building of a new Meeting House for the Methodist Episcopal Church, in the town of Lebanon. The contractor to furnish all materials, and finish the house complete, according to a plan which may be seen at the store of John Reeves & Co. at which place persons desirous of undertaking the work, are requested to deposite their proposals in writing on or before the twentieth day of the present month.
George Foglesong, Samuel Nixon, John Reeves, Tobias Bretney, Obediah Hackney, James Clarke, Henry B. Miller, William R. Sellers, William McLean.

Newspaper:


The State of Ohio, Warren County Court of Common Pleas--June Term, A. D., 1836
John M. Houston surviving executor of George Harnsberger, deceased,
vs.
Wm. Sellers, Eliza Ann Harnsberger, Jacob Harnsberger, Elizabeth Kite and ____ Kite her husband, Anne Baugher and _____ Baugher her husband, Barbara Harrison and Reuben Harrison her husband, Sarah Conrod and _____ Conrod her husband, Margaret Mack, and _____ Mack her husband, Susan Miller and _____ Miller her husband, George H. Harrison and Jas. Clark, James B. Hays, Tobias Brotney, Joseph Sauser, Asberry Frazier, William R. Sellers and Samuel Nixon trustees of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Lebanon and Samuel Nixon and Amos Barr stewards of said church.
The complainant has filed his bill of complaint in the Court of Common Pleas for said county, setting forth in substance amongst other things, that he is surviving executor of George Harnsberger, dec. and has partially settled said estate--that the defendant Eliza Jane Harnsberger is the widow of said decedant--that in his life time a partnership exised between the deceased and the defendant Sellers--that there are unsettled claims in favor of the estate against the said widow, said defendant Sellers and others; that the said Eliza Jane Harnsberger ever since the decease of her said husband has occupied the whole of his real estate and received a large amount of rents therefor; that he is fearful that one half of said rents may be claimed by the brothers sisters of said deceased and the trustees and stewards of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Lebanon as they by the will are entitled to one half of said estate on the decease of said widow after payment of debts and a legacy of $500 to the defendant George H. Harrison; that he cannot settle the estate of said decendent until the above claims are settled and paid.
—The complainant therefore prays amont other things, substantially, that the defendant Sellers answer and make a full exhibit of his transactions in the settlement of the affairs of the firm of Harnsberger and Sellers; that said widow may state the amount she is indebted to said estate, whether she has not occupied the real estate as above stated and the amount of rents received therefrom; that the court would by decree direct the further destinations of said real estate after paying all the debts--that the account of the complainant with the estate of said deceased may also be settled--that the said William Sellers and Mary Jane Harnsberger shall come to a settlement with complainant. He also prays general relief.
J. K. Wilds, Clk.
Ross & Corwin, Esq'rs. sols. for complainant.

Will:


Last Will and Testament of William Runkle Sellers
—Know all whom it may concern that I William R. Sellers of the County and State of Ohio being advanced in life, and feble in body but still possessing a sound mind make this as my last will and testament.
—1st After paying funeral expenses & all other just debts I bequeath to my wife Elizabeth Sellers fourteen chairs, two tables, all the bed & bedding, all the carpets, all the cupboardware, two stoves, one bureau, one sofa, two mirrors & one buggy & harness of my chattle property to be over and above what the law will allow her, the above named articles to be selected by her. In addition to the above I will that she have a lawful share of the remaining chattle property and one years support.
—2nd I will that my Daughter Amanda J. Russell have twenty two acres of land, off of the South side of the farm that I now live on, the line to run parallel with the south line of said farm, through the whole length. The above land is to be for her sole use and benefit during her natural life, free from any control of her husband J. M. Russell, and at her death it is to be for the sole use and benefit of her heirs. Also the small frame house and lot where they now reside, subject to the same restrictions except that if she elects to sell it at any time she shall be free to do so. Also notes and receipts for money furnished her husband by way of advancement at various times, as per notes and receipts herewith filed, amounting to seven hundred and four dollars and forty-six cents ($704.46). In consideration of all the foregoing I charge them three thousand dollars ($3,000) Provided also that if my wife should die before I do, she is to share equal with the other heirs in what I have willed to my wife.
—3rd I will that the remainder of my real and personal property be sold on such terms as my Executors may think best, and equally divided between Ferdinand Sellers, Robert Sellers, Wm. W. Sellers, Mary A. McDonald, late Mary A. Sellers, Nancy M. Bernit, late Nancy M. Sellers, subject to the following restrictions. Viz: My wife is to have five hundred dollars out of the first money that may be realsed from the sale of the real and personal property, and two items and dollars of the last payment on the farm, when sold is to remain on interest for her sole use and benefit, and if she shall find that the forgoing provisions is not sufficient to give her a liberal support she shall have the privilege of using any part of the last provision of two thousand? and dollars.
—In the above distribution of my estate Ferdinand Sellers is to be charged without interest, with fourteen hundred and twenty six dollars ($1,426.00) already advanced, as will more fully appear by reference to receipts & notes herewith filed. Robert Sellers is to be charged with two hundred & sixty two dollars, without interest as per receipts filed __. Wm. Wesley Sellers is to be charged with two hundred and twenty dollars, and Mary McDonald with one hundred dollars – all without interest as in case of the others.
—If in the final settlement of my estate, there shall be a surplus over three thousand dollars to each of the last named for heirs, including what has already been advanced to each of them as herein charge in that event my Daughter Amanda J. Russel is to share equal with the other heirs in the distribution of said surplus.
—For the faithful execution of the foregoing, as my last will and testament, I hereby appoint Ferdinand Sellers and Robert Sellers as my executors and removing all former wills or instruments of writing. I hereby affix my hand and seal this 5th day of July 1869.
Wm. Sellers (Seal)
Signed and Sealed in
Presence of A. Sellers
H. W. Donley

Newspaper:

Probate Notice
The following names persons, to-wit:
Robert and Ferdinand Sellers ex'rs of William R. Sellers, deceased. 1st account

William married Elizabeth Aughe on 15 Aug 1816 in Warren County, Ohio, United States. Elizabeth (daughter of Harmon Harrison Aughe and Mary Munger) was born on 12 Mar 1797 in Virginia, United States; died on 3 Jul 1873 in Lebanon, Warren County, Ohio, United States; was buried in Jul 1873 in Warren County, Ohio, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events:

• Census: 1850, Clear Creek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as Elizabeth Sellers, in the household of William Sellers
• Census: 1860, Clear Creek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as Elizabeth Sellers, in the household of William Sellers
• Beneficiary: 5 Jul 1869; in the will of her husband, William R. Sellers
• Census: 1870, Clear Creek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as Elizabeth Sellers, in the household of William R. Sellers

Notes:

Mentioned in the will of William R. Sellers as wife Elizabeth Sellers.

Birth:

Mentioned in the will of William R. Sellers as wife Elizabeth Sellers.

Other Events:

• Occupation: Farmer
• Religion: Methodist
• Land Patent: 19 Jul 1824, Miami County, Ohio, United States; purchased 81.30 acres (Land Patent Number CV-0059-137); Address:
  West of the Greater Miami, West Half of North East quarter, Sect
• Probate: 1 Nov 1830, Warren County, Ohio, United States
• Newspaper: 15 Oct 1831; Margaret Hormel, executrix of Henry Hormel, deceased

Notes:

Henry Hormell, Jr., the sixth child and second son of Henry Hormell, owned a 33 acre farm across Clear Creek, opposite his father's farm. He was for many years a Methodist class leader. [Source: Stanley Wright Aultz, "Chronicles of a Griffis Family", Miamisburg, Ohio: S. W. Aultz 1981]

Henry was born in Washington County, Pennsylvania. He owned a thirty-three acre farm on Clear Creek, Warren County, Ohio, opposite his father's farm. He was a leader in his Methodist Church. He was buried in the old Baptist Cemetery north of Ridgeville, Warren County, Ohio. Margaret was born at Hagerstown, Maryland, She died at Sharon, near Oakland, Ohio, and is buried in the Sharon M.E. church yard. [Source: Jack T. Hutchinson, "A Quaker Migration to Southwestern Ohio", (March 1996), pg. 18]

Henry Hormell died in Clear Creek Twp., Warren County, Ohio and was interred in the Baptist Cemetery there. His date of death was Oct. 10, 1828. his wife, Margaret Fry Hormell, died in 1859 and was buried in Clinton County, Ohio. [Source: Gillis, W. Floyd, ""Hormell Family"," pg. 14]

Note: At a Court of Common Pleas begun and held at Lebanon in the County of Warren and State of Ohio on this first day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty...
Margaret Hormel executrix of Henry Hormel decd. files in Court here an account current and vouchers for settlement at next term. B.3.422 Will records, vol. 4, pg. 178, November Term 1830, Warren County.

Henry married Margaret Fry on 1 Sep 1813 in Warren County, Ohio, United States. Margaret (daughter of John Fry and Margaret Boyd) was born on 16 May 1793 in Hagerstown, Washington County, Maryland, United States; died on 20 Apr 1859 in Warren County, Ohio, United States; was buried in Apr 1859 in Clinton County, Ohio, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events:

• Appointed: Apr 1829, Warren County, Ohio, United States; Administratrix in the estate of Henry Hormel
• Census: 1830, Springboro, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as Margaret Hormel
• Beneficiary: 27 Aug 1830; in the will of her father-in-law, Henry Hormell, as Margaret Hormell, widow of Henry Hormell, deceased
• Newspaper: 15 Oct 1831; Margaret Hormel, executrix of Henry Hormel, deceased
• Census: 1840, Clear Creek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as Margret Hormel
• Census: 1850, Wayne Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as Margaret Hormell, head of household

Other Events:

• Obituary: Newspaper unknown
• Name: Jacob Zeller
• Census: 1830, Turtlecreek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as Jacob Sellers
• Census: 1840, Turtlecreek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as Jacob Sellers
• Census: 1850, Turtlecreek Township, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as Jacob Sellars, farmer, in the household of Abrahan Miller
• Will: 12 May 1852, Warren County, Ohio, United States
• Probate: 24 Feb 1853, Warren County, Ohio, United States

Notes:

In 1798 when Jacob Sellers came to Ohio, he settled in what was Hamilton County, (now Warren County,). Warren County, was not formed until 1803.

Jacob was one of the pioneer settlers of Warren County, Ohio, arriving there before either the county or the state was formed. He and his cousin John pioneered the route followed by other Sellers' emmigrating to Ohio, over the Allegheny mountains by wagon to Brownsville, Pennsylvania, and then by raft down the Monongahela and Ohio rivers to the vicinity of Cincinnati. This trip of some six hundred miles, more twice the direct distance, took a month or more, depending on the weather, luck, Indians, and other factors. In 1798 he purchased 300 acres from John Symmes in the northern part of what was to become Warren county

Notes- 1. Symmes Tract Transactions. p. 36. 2. Warren County, Ohio Will book 12, p. 594. [Reference: Frank M. Sellers, "Sellers - A Preliminary Study of the Descendants of Heinrich Sellers", (Denver, Colorado: Lion Press, 1984), pg. 8.]

Excerpt from old letter.....
My recollection of grandfather Jacob Sellers is that he was a man of rather less than medium height, well made and active; rather quiet in his movements. He made regular visits to his children living near him, about once a month, and always came on horseback. He rode a good animal; well kept, and gentle and a good traveler, and always well groomed. He was always neatly and clearly dressed and smoothly shaven. Hair white, with a pleasant, cheerful countenance, and a great friend among us children. We were always in high glee when grandfather came. He spoke very broken English, and asked the blessing at table in German. I remember the queer sounds of his words yet. He was a zealous active member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Lebanon at the time of his death, and had been for many years before.

His first wife's name was Runkel, as you see by Adam's sketch; and his second marriage was to a Munger, an aunt, I think, of George Munger of Clear Creek township, who died some years ago.

Grandfather came to Turtle Creek township north of Lebanon, in 1798. He remained on the same farm until the time of his death, which was in 1853 or 1854, if my memory is not at fault. He was not a great man, nor exceedingly wise. He never became wealthy, nor tried to do so, was possessed of some 160 acres of land and some money and property; but he was a good man, honest and loyal, and a good Christian, of a type not to be mistaken. [Source: Letter dated 'Waynesville, O. June 9th, 1890', includes this description of Jacob Sellers written by his grandson, Peter Sellers (1834). The sketch he refers to is with Peter Sellers notes]

Excerpt from old letter.....
In 1798 or 1799 the Jacob Sellers family moved from Virginia to Warren County, Ohio. It was in Turtle Creek township north of Lebanon, Ohio that Jacob Sellers settled, remaining on the same farm until his death in 1853. At the time he purchased land Jacob Sellers was the head of one of the original families of that then remote region of and can be considered one of the true pioneers of Warren County, Ohio. These excerpts are taken from an article entitled, "Lebanon, City of Culture and Education," which appeared in the July 15, 1936 addition of "The Cincinnati Enquirer: Into this wild, unsettled region a few determined pioneers visioned a city dedicated American ideals, culture, and education. The scalping of Indians and the howling of wolves had scarcely ceased when the few settlers of the outpost laid the foundation of the first school. The building stood on the north bank of Turtle Creek, not far from the present boundary of Lebanon. From this small group there came some famous characters, among them the familiar names of Thomas Corwin, Judge Kesling, Hon. Moses B. Corwin, A. H. Dunlevy, William Taylor, Matthias Corwin, Daniel Voorhis, and Jacob Sellers.

He was buried in the Old Methodist Graveyard, Lebanon. His wife's grave is located in the Presbyterian Cemetery.

Birth:
(now Augusta County, Virginia)

Obituary:

DIED.
On the 10th inst., at his residence near Lebanon, Mr. Jacob Sellers, in the 87th year of his age. The subject of this notice removed from Rrockingham County, Va., to the Turtlecreek Valley, Warren County, Ohio, about the year 1798, and was thenceforward until the time of his dath one of the valuable accesions which this vicinity gained by the emigration of that early period in the history of this community. Industrious, honest and frugal, he was enabled to possess himself of the confidence and esteem of his fellow-citizens, and a competency of this world's wealth. The writer of this notice is not wware of the precise period when he embraced religion, He was a number of years a member of the German Reformed Church, but eleven or twelve years since united with the Cumberland Presbyterian Church in this place, by letter, in which he lived an example of punctuality, humility and meekness, honored and beloved by all who knew him.
"For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him."

Will:


Last Will and Testament of Jacob Sellers
—I Jacob Sellers of Warren County, Ohio do make & publish this my last will & testament.
—Item 1st, It is my will, that after my death the farm in which I live be sold by my Executors to the best advantage, either at public or private sale, and upon such terms of credit as my said Executors shall think advisable, and the proceeds of the sale thereof be equality divided among my following children and heirs to wit: George Sellers, the children of Nancy Gallaher, Lucinda Miller, Rebecca Long, Mary Miller, Sarah Sheets and Jacob M. Sellers. That is to son George Sellers and his heirs to receive one equal seventh part of the proceeds of the sale of said farm; the children of Nancy Gallaher and their heirs to receive one equal share equal seventh part of the proceeds of the sale of said farm; Lucinda Miller to receive one equal seventh part of the proceeds of the sale of said farm; Rebecca Long and her heirs to receive one equal seventh part of the sale of said farm; Mary Miller to receive one equal seventh part of the proceeds of the sale of said farm; Sarah Sheets to receive one equal seventh part of the proceeds of the sale of said farm and Jacob M. Sellers to receive the one equal seventh part of the proceeds of the sale of said farm. The portion of the heirs of Nancy Gallaher to remain in the hands of my Executors to be paid out to them as they respectively become of age.
—Item 2nd, it is my will that out of my personal estate all my just debts and funeral expenses be fully paid, and the residue be divided among my children as follows to wit: My son Jacob M. Sellers to receive One Hundred Dollars for extra services by him performed after he becomes of age; Abraham Miller to receive One Hundred Dollars for services received; and after the said Two Hundred Dollars and my just debts and funeral expenses are paid, my son John Sellers to receive one ninth part of my said personal estate; my son George Sellers to receive on ninth part of my personal estate; the children of Nancy Gallaher to receive on ninth part of the same upon the same terms and in the same way that they are to receive their portion of my real estate; my daughter Lucinda Miller to receive one ninth part of the same; my son Wm. Sellers to receive one ninth part of the same; my daughter Rebecca Long to receive one ninth part of the same; my daughter Mary Miller to receive one ninth part of the same; my daughter Sarah Sheets to receive one ninth part of the same; and my son Jacob M. Sellers to receive one ninth part of the same.
—Item Third, I hereby release and discharge my sons John & William Sellers all claims for advancements by me to them made with in money or the purchase of land for them or either of the said advancements being considered equal in a full share of my real estate, and will make them equal with the rest of my children and heirs.
—Item 4th, I do hereby nominate and appoint my sons William Sellers and Jacob M. Sellers, Executors of this my last will and testament, hereby authorizing and appointing them to compromise, adjust, release and discharge in such manner as they may deem proper the debts & claims due me.
—I hereby revoke all former wills by me made.
In Testimony whereof I have hereto set my hand & seal this 12th day of May 1852.
Jacob Sellers [Seal]
—Signed, sealed and acknowledged by the said Jacob Sellers as his last Will & Testament in our presence & signed by us In his presence.
Leonard Peckenpaugh
Benj. Blackburn

Jacob married Christina Runkle on 11 Oct 1788 in Rockingham County, Virginia, United States. Christina (daughter of Peter Runkle and Margaret Steiner Koch) was born on 2 Mar 1772 in Augusta County, Virginia, British Colonial America; died on 31 Aug 1807 in Ohio, United States; was buried in Sep 1807 in Warren County, Ohio, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events:

• Name: Nancy Christene Runkle
• Nationality: of German origin

Notes:

Buried:
(Moved from Presbyterian Cemetery)

Harmon married Mary Munger on 25 Oct 1793 in Rockingham County, Virginia, United States. Mary was born in 1771; died in 1829. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events:

• Military: Revolutionary War, 5th Battalion, Ensign
• Name: Henry Hormell
• Property: 16 Feb 1786, East Bethlehem Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, United States; filed an application for a Warrant to purchase 400 acres
• Tax Record: 1789, East Bethleham Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, United States
• Survey: 8 May 1789; in pursuance of the warrant granted to Henry Hormell the tract of land called Peach Garden was surveyed on 1 June 1786 and returned
• Property: 12 May 1789, East Bethleham Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, United States; was granted a Patent for a tract of land called "Peach Garden" containing 414 acres 56 perches for the price of 15 Pounds 3 Shilling
• Tax Record: 1798, East Bethleham Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, United States; Tax List
• Census: 1800, East Bethleham Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, United States; as Henry Hormel
• Property: 19 Jul 1824, Miami County, Ohio, United States; purchased 81.3 acres by Patent CV-0059-137; Address:
  (West half of the North East quarter, Section 12, Township 6 Nor
• Census: 1830, Springboro, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as Henry Hormel
• Will: 27 Aug 1830, Warren County, Ohio, United States
• Newspaper: 9 Mar 1832; Sale at the House of Henry Hormell
• Newspaper: 22 Mar 1833; Public Sale
• Probate: 21 Apr 1834, Warren County, Ohio, United States
• Newspaper: 2 May 1834; Executor's Notice
• Newspaper: 30 May 1834; Public Sale
• Newspaper: 9 Oct 1835; Executor's Notice

Notes:

Henry Hormell was a soldier in Lord Dunmore's War (a campaign promoted by Virginia Royal Governor John Murry) that proceeded the Revolutionary War. Henry and his two brothers, John and Jacob were paid off at Fort Pitt (present Pittsburgh.) This indicates they were Virginians, and Virginia and Pennsylvania both claimed the lands along the Monongahela in what is now southwestern Pennsylvania. The Virginians created a separate county in the area called Yohogania. The Hormells were of French Huguenot heritage. These French Protestants had suffered much for freedom of conscience at the time of the infamous Massacre of St. Bartholomew's Day and again when Cardinal Richielieu revoked the Edict of Nates, which for a century had guaranteed the Protestants freedom of worship in France. The brothers probably were from the sizable Huguenot settlement near the James River in Goochland and Powhatan Counties, Va. - the so called Manokin settlement.

The three brothers established farms on the west bank of the Monongahela River in what is now the East Bethlehem Township of Washington Co, Pa. The land holdings were named in the Virginia manner, Henry's being called "Peach Garden." Henry settled on this land in 1770, five years before the Revolutionary War. The 414 acres and 56 poles was warranted to Henry Hormell by the land office in Philadelphia on February 16, 1786. It was surveyed on June 1, 1786 and a patent issued to Henry Hormell on May 12, 1789. The two other brothers also owned adjacent land known as "Garland" and "Eutaw".

The Huguenot Hormells in the Monongahela Va joined another group of dissenters, the "Quakers". The Quakers had established meeting houses in Monongahela valley and when the Hormells came from Pa to Ohio they brought the Quaker
tradition with them to Warren Co.

In 1777 during the Revolution, Henry took as his bride Eleanor Lee. Eleanor was the daughter of William Fairfax Lee and was living on his plantation "Point Pleasant" near the Hormell properties. In around 1808 Henry and Eleanor pioneered to Warren Co, Ohio and acquired land in Clearlake Twp.

It appears that there was a large migration from the Monongahela Valley to Warren Co, Ohio that included Henry's brother John who had came west in 1797 around the same time that John Lee, Eleanors brother had came with his family.

Henry was a farmer. He and Eleanor shared a marriage for fifty-six years and produced eleven children. Many are buried near Ridgeville, Oh in Warren Co. Henry's grave is marked with a bronze marker placed by the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Earliest known residence, Fayette County, Pa. probably near Brownsville. Moved with his family to Ridgeville, Warren County, Ohio in 1808. Revolutionary Soldier, Ensign in Captain Swaney's Company, 5th Battalion. In the certificate showing his appointment on February 14, 1782, his name is given as Henry Hormill. Source: Letter from William G. Hormell]

Henry Hormell was thirty years old and Eleanor Lee was fourteen at their marriage. Henry and his brothers John, Sr. and Jacob (perhaps half-brothers or cousins?) fought in Lord Dunmore's War and later they served in a militia company in western Pennsylvania on behalf of American freedom from Great Britain during the American Revolution.

John Hormell, Sr. came to Warren County, Ohio about 1797. Jacob Hormell married Jane Miller and became a Quaker. They lived out their lives in Washington County Pennsylvania.

Henry Hormell and his wife Eleanor Lee came to Warren County, Ohio from Washington County Pennsylvania about 1808. Their farm was along the east side of the "Dayton Pike" north of Lebanon and a bit north of Merrittstown and Pekin in Clear Creek Township. [Source: Jack T. Hutchinson, "A Quaker Migration to Southwestern Ohio", (March 1996), pg. 16]

John and Henry Hormell raised their families on the Pennsylvania frontier, but did not stay there to die. But, before they could answer the call of the Ohio frontier, they were caught up in the political events and wars of their times which made it possible for the early west to be settled. Western Pennsylvania was no sooner settled than the Americans were looking for more lands to settle which could be easily reached by traveling down the rivers which lead westward to the Mississippi. The Shanondoah (sic) Valley in Virginia and the Kanawha River valley in what is now West Virginia were next. Both the Cherokee of Tennessee and the Shawnee of Ohio considered Kentucky as their hunting ground although no tribe actually occupied it. By 1774, the Indians, who had heard of the settlers that would be coming soon, were ready to fight to defend what they believed to be theirs. In April of 1774, a minor Shawnee attack on a surveying party was used as an excuse for a fiery proclamation which urged the frontiersmen to defend themselves. The excitement of the war alarm swept through the West. Such able-bodied men as Henry, Jacob, and John Hormell signed up at Pittsburgh to be in the militia. The Indians sent messengers to Pittsburgh to plead for peace, but these men were attached and killed on orders from the commander Dr. John Connolly. With this, Shawnee patience reached its breaking point, and young warriors started attacking outlying settlements to avenge the 13 Indians who had died in other skirmishes. On June 10, 1774, Governor Dunmore of Virginia sent word to the frontier settlements all over the West that war had begun.

The conflict that broke out then, known as Lord Dunmore's War, was a struggle for land between two antagonistic civilizations. The area in question was Kentucky, land wanted by the Indians for a hunting ground, and by the Americans for homes and farms.

We can imagine what the Hormells thought as they travelled down the Ohio River to the mouth of the Hocking River with Lord Dunmore's troops and saw the fabulous lands that were to be had merely by staking out a claim on them. As the army proceeded through what is now Athens, Hocking, and Vinton counties toward Chillicothe, the Hormells must have realized that these rolling hills could be even more profitable and fertile that the fields they plowed back in Pennsylvania. Their first glimpse of the wonderful, well watered Ohio country must have started them thinking about migrating farther west in quest of greater land possessions. We know from the "Historical Register of Virginians in the Revolution, 1775-1783" that they returned to Pittsburgh where they were paid off in 1775 for their service in the Colonial Militia. If, upon return to their homesteads along the Monongahela River, any of the Hormell boys contemplated moving farther west, those plans were quickly terminated by the beginning of the American Revolution. The American Revolution stopped practically all migration west for the next eight years while most of the men became involved in one way or another, for or against, in that great struggle for independence in North America.

By autumn of 1789, a new war with the Indians had developed. By 1790, the urge to move west was growing stronger and stronger. For frontiersmen living in western Pennsylvania, taxes were getting too high, land was too expensive, and for some, it was getting too crowded. The lure of land "northwest of the Ohio" became even stronger as land speculators advertised in the east, telling of the "cheaper" more fertile lands that were to be had if a farmer were willing to take a year off from farming to move by taking a raft down the Ohio River to one of the new settlements. However, there was one problem preventing most frontiersmen from moving northwest of the Ohio River. The land still legally belonged to the Indians. Lord Dunmore's War, only freed land south of the Ohio River to white settlement.

In 1795 the Treaty of Greenville was signed. In it, the Indians surrendered all of Ohio except a strip along Lake Erie, a triangle of land in Indiana, and some trading posts. They agreed to move farther west and break their alliance with the British. A new stretch of territory was opened up for American settlement.

With the Indian problem out of the way, the Hormells still had one problem to overcome before they could go west - transportation. Up to this time, almost everyone floated down the Ohio on a raft. This could be dangerous, especially when it came to moving a whole household because of the numerous rapids on the way. In 1796, the first road across Ohio, Zane's Trace, was built from Ft. Henry, Virginia, (now Wheeling, West Virginia) to Zanesville, down to Chillicothe and onto Maysville, Kentucky on the Ohio River. From Chillicothe, another road was built through Williamsburg to Columbia, Ohio. These roads were impassable stretches of mud in wet weather, but in the winter, the surfaces were covered with deeply packed snow and ice which smoothed the road to a relatively easy transportation route. After Zane's Trace was completed, the pioneers could migrate during winter, moving their household goods by sled from Ft. Henry to the Cincinnati area in about two weeks. It is unknown whether the Hormells came to the Miami Country by raft on the Ohio River or by winter sled over Zane's Trace.

Henry and Eleanor Hormell moved to Warren county in 1808 where they settled on a 113 acre farm in Franklin Twp. on the east side of the Dayton Pike. Henry died in 1834 and Eleanor died in 1835 and both are buried in the Clear Creek Baptist Cemetery north of Ridgeville in Warren County,. Henry's family did not all follow him to Ohio. Many of them married in Pennsylvania and remained there to raise families. However, at least two children did come to Ohio. Mary, the first daughter, and Henry Hormell, Jr., the sixth child and second son. [Source: Stanley Wright Aultz, "Chronicles of a Griffis Family", Miamisburg, Ohio: S. W. Aultz 1981]

Henry Hormell, son of Henry and ____ Hormell, came to the Brownsville, Pa. area around 1770 with his brothers, Jacob and John. He purchased a farm called "Peach Garden" on the northwest boundary of John's farm. We find that he was a trustee of the Taylor Methodist Church in 1790. Taylor Methodist Church's first log building was constructed in 1784.

Henry Hormell, as before stated, served in Dunmore's War and the Revolutionary War. He served in the revolutionary War as an Ensign in Capt. R. Sweeney's 5th Bn. Washington county Militia Thomas Cook, Lt. Col.

Henry Hormell married Eleanor (Ellinor) Lee (Lanah-?) in the late 1770's. she was born December 24, 1765 (some records show 1763).

Henry and Eleanor moved to Ohio in 1808 according to a letter written by Mrs. Benjamin Smith of Stockstone, Calif. early in the 1940's. they took up land from the government three miles west of Lebanon on the Dayton Pike living on the east side of the road. This was in Clear Creek Twp., Warren County, Ohio.

Henry Hormell was listed as a farmer the same as his brothers, Jacob and John.

Henry Hormell died on February 16, 1834. Eleanor Lee Hormell died March 4, 1835. Both were interred in the Baptist Cemetery (Churchyard), Ridgeville, Ohio.

Notes: Vol 1I P. 255 dated Aug. 6, 1791 Henry Hormell sold to Robert Sweeney 50 acres. Consideration 100 Pounds. Vol IT P. 681 dated April 25, 1807 Henry Hormell sold to Thomas Bell 103-1/2 Acres. Consederation $1, 086.75. Vol 12L P. 354 dated April 11, 1808 Henry Hormell sold to David Wood of Frederick County, Maryland 236 acres (balance of "Peach Garden"). Consideration $3,899.56. [Source: W. Floyd Gillis, ""Hormell Family", pg. 5-6]

Property:

Patent Book 16, page 3
The Supreme Executive Council of the commonwealth of Pennsylvania, To all to whom these presents shall come, Greeting: Know ye, that in consideration of the monies paid by Henry Hormell into the Receiver Generals office of this Commonwealth at the granting of the Warrant herein after mentioned and of the Sum of Fifteen Pounds three Shillings lawful Money now paid by him into the said office there is granted by the said commonwealth unto the said Henry Hormell a certain tract of Land called "Peach Garden" situate on the West Side of Monongahela River Washington County. Beginning at a Hickory on the bank of Monongahela River thence by land of John Hormell north forty seven Degrees and an half West four hundred and Sixty perches to a post thence by land of John Jenkinson north thirty three degrees East Seventy three Perches to a White oak thence by land of Joseph Woodfill South fifty two degrees East one hundred and fifty four perches to a white oak and north thirty eight degrees & an half East ninety perches to a post thence by land of Edward Dorsey South fifty one degrees & an half East one hundred and fifty five Perches to a White oak North fifty five degrees East Seventeen perches to a Spanish oak & White oak south thirty eight degrees east twenty seven perches to a heap of Stones Past Seven perches to a White oak South Sixty degrees East Sixty six perches to a Walnut & Sugar Tree on the Bank of Monongahela River thence up said River the several courses thereof two hundred and thirty three Perches to the place of beginning, containing Four hundred and fourteen Acres & fifty six Perches and allowance of six per cent. for roads, &c. with the appurtenances (which said tract was surveyed in pursuance of a Warranty granted to the said Henry Hormell dated the 16th February 1786. To have and to hold the said tract or parcel of land with the appurtenances unto the said Henry Hormell his heirs and assigns forever free and clear of all restrictions and reservations as to mines, royalties, quit-rents or otherwise, excepting and reserving only the fifth part of all gold and silver ore, for the use of this commonwealth to be delivered at the pit's mouth, clear of all charges. In Witness whereof His Excellency Thomas Miflin Esq, president of the Supreme Executive Council hath hereto set his hand and caused the state seal to hereto affixed in Council the Twelfth day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred Eighty nine and of the commonwealth the Thirteenth.

Will:

WILL… Henry Hormel
Will dated 27 August 1830
Transcript of Probate Records, Warren County, Ohio
Court of Common Pleas, April Term 1834, pg. 82
Recorded 21 April 1834

The last will and testament of Henry Hormel in the name of God amen. Not knowing the day of my death and for the better peace & satisfaction of my heirs I will as follows: First the funeral charges and lawful debts be paid. Second my will is that my beloved wife shall have all my property both real and personal during her life and after her death my will is that the residue of my property be disposed of according to law by my executors and divide the proceeds between my children and grand children as follows. 1st I will to Rebeca Merritt late Rebeca Hormell the sum of fifty dollars. 2nd I will to Henry S. Ross, Samuel Ross & Eleat Hormel the sum of ten-dollars each and after paying the above legases and lawful charges to divide the remainder equally between John Ross and Mary his wife late Mary Hormell, Joel Hormell & Lidda his wife late Lidda Hormell, Kirby Allen and Matildah his wife late Matildah Hormell, Isaac Gudgel and Sarah his wife late Sarah Hormell, Joseph Carter and Eleanor his wife late Eleanor Hormell and to my grand daughter Ellen Gudgel daughter of Isaac and Nancy Gudgel late Nancy Hormell an equal share after deducting the different sums of money which I have paid the above mentioned heirs to be divided equally share and share alike. John Ross has received the sum of seventy nine dollars Joel Hormel sum ten dollars, Isaac, Gudgel sum thirty dollars, Kirby Allen sum twenty five dollars, Joseph Carter sum ten dollars and Ellen Gudgel sum ten dollars: the remainder of my children (towit) Joseph Norton, Elizabeth Barms late Elizabeth Hormell, Margaret Hormell widdow of Henry Hormell deceased and Phebe Hormell widow of John Hormell deceased, by this my last will are not to receive any part or portion of my property as aforesaid they having received in my life time land and other property to more than and equivalent to the above legatees a reference to the records if necessary will more fully show. And lastly I do appoint Daniel Crane & Joel Hormell to be my executors to this my last will and testament. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this twenty seventh day of August A.D. 1830
In presence of Henry (his mark) Hormell
Kirby (his mark) Allen
Fenton Carter

Newspaper:

SALE
At the house of Henry Hormel will be offered at public vendue, on Saturday 24th March inst. the following property to wit:
4 Head of Horses,
3 Head of Cattle,
some stock Hogs, of good quality,
20 Head of Sheep,
1 Wheat Fan,
1 Patent Plough,
2 Harrows,
1 set Leather Harness for two horses,
1 Cross Cut Saw,
Besides some other articles of farming utensils. A credit of nine months will be given for all sums over three dollars - under three, cash
Henry Hormel

Newspaper:

Public Sale.
There will be sold at public vendue at the house of Henry Hormel in Clearcreek township one mile south of Ridgeville on Saturday 6th of April next, the following property, to wit:
2 head of Horses,
2 Milch Cows, one fresh,
24 head Stock Hogs, 9 Sheep & 6 young lambs,
6 Sugar Kettles, 1 large Pot,
Between two & three hundred Sugar Crocks,
Wheat, Rye, Corn, Oats and hay,
Some Bacon and salt Pork,
100 or 150 lbs. of good Sugar, 1 Bureau,
1 Table, 2 Stands, 1 Chest,
1 Weavers Loom with Reds and Gears, and a variety of other articles not here named. A liberal credit given. Sale to commence at 10 o'clock.
Abraham Merrit
Joel Hormel

Newspaper:

Research notes:
Executor's Notice.
All persons having claims against the estate of Henry Hormel late of Clearcreek township, Warren county, dec. are hereby notified to produce them legally authenticated for settlement, to the subscriber, within one year. And those indebted to said estate are required to make immediate payment to
Joel Hormel }
Daniel Crane,} Exectrs.

Newspaper:

Public Sale
On Saturday the 14th of June next
There will be offered at public sale at the late residence of Henry Hormel, deceased, in Clearcreek township, the following described chattel property, to wit:
1 First rate Brass 8 day Clock,
1 Bureau,
Beds and Bedding,
Kitchen Cupboard, Chairs, Table, Etc.
A credit of six months will be given by the purchaser giving note and approved security
Joel Hormel
Daniel Crane
Exrs

Newspaper:

Notice
Is hereby Given, that the following executors, administrators and guardians, have filed in the Court of Common Pleas for the county of Warren and State of Ohio, their accounts and vouchers for settlement, to-wit:
Joel Hormel and Daniel Crane, executors of Henry Hormel, dec.

Henry married Eleanor Lee in 1777 in Pennsylvania, United States. Eleanor (daughter of William Lee and Cathern Ross) was born on 24 Dec 1763 in Frederick County, Virginia, British Colonial America; died on 4 Mar 1833 in Ridgeville, Warren County, Ohio, United States; was buried in Mar 1833 in Warren County, Ohio, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events:

• Name: Elinor Lanah
• Name: Elizabeth Eleanor Lee

Notes:

Elizabeth is a cousin of Richard Henry Lee, signer of the Declaration of Independence. [Source: Stanley Wright Aultz, "Chronicles of a Griffis Family", (Miamisburg, Ohio: S. W. Aultz, 1981)]

Other Events:

• Census: 1790, Washington County, Maryland, United States; as John Fry

John married Margaret Boyd about 1770. Margaret was born about 1755 in Frederick County, Maryland, British Colonial America; died after 1827 in Warren County, Ohio, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]