Researched and submitted by Lucy Funk ebethgen1@yahoo.com and Arlene Goodwin aagoodwin46706@yahoo.com

The second annual reunion of the Bowman family was held Thursday August 19, 1909, at the home of Archie Bowman northeast of Waterloo. It was one of the perfect days of the season, not too hot nor too cold and everything being favorable there was nothing to prevent the enjoyment, happiness and pleasure of the occasion as the three score and more of guest will testify. At noon long tables were spread under the shade of magnificent trees on the lawn and they had to be re-enforced with extra supports on account of the loads and loads of roast and chicken, fruits, cakes, pies and all the luxuries of the season. W. F. Bowman, president of the association presided at the afternoon meeting. Mrs. C.E. Montavon, nee Sadie Bowman read a very interesting and well prepared history of the Bowman family. The Miss Ruth Bowman and Miss Childs recited appropriate selections, and the phonograph supplied the places of instrumental music and vocal song. The following officers were elected for the ensuing year: Archie Bowman, President; Mrs. Emma Luttman, Sect; Mrs. A. J. Sinclair, Treasurer; Mrs. C. E. Monavon, historian. The guests from out of town were Mrs. Benj. Everett and daughter Ethel, of Chicago, Mr. and Mrs. John Funk, of Detroit, Mr. and Mrs. Newel Jones and daughter of Elkhart, Mrs. Hazel Duncan and daughter of Toledo, Mr. and Mrs. Emmett Cox, of Hudson, Mr. and Mrs. P. D. Childs and son and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. M. Luttman, Mrs. Reuben Childs and children, of Corunna, Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Crane, Sedan, The local guests were Mr. and Mrs. Archie Bowman and children, Mildred, Dell Mary, Ruth and Russell, Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Bowman and daughter Sarah A. Bowman, Mrs. Lucy Funk and son Erwin of Butler, Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Sinclair, Mr. and Mrs. W. F. Bowman, Mr. and Mrs. Chester Bowman, Mr. and Mrs. J. P. McCague, Mrs. Eston McCague, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Hodges, Mrs. Mabel Shultz and son, Mr. and Mrs. C. E. Montavon, Waldo Montavon, Mabel Montavon, Mrs. Freman Kelley, Miss Grace Braun and a few invited guest. The next year's reunion will be held at he home of Mrs. A. J. Sinclair in Waterloo. (Re: Waterloo Press Aug. 26, 1909)

Thursday , Aug. 29, was the day set for the reunion of these families and the Waterloo school park was the place chosen. The Baxter family are descendents of William Baxter and Sarah Rogers, natives of County Tyrone, Ireland, who came to Washington county, Pa., in 1791. Their children were Daniel, Jannette, Sarah, William, James, Moses, Mary, John, and Andrew. In June, 1841, the last two named located, John in Smithfield and Andrew in Franklin township, on land entered from the government in 1838. Moses Baxter also located in Smithfield township. These sturdy yeomen carved out of the virgin forest comfortable homes and reared large families. Of course they were subject to the ague and between "shakes" performed the arduous labors incident to pioneer life. Andrew in 1838 married Nancy Brown, of Scotch decent, who died Jan. 18, 1858, and her husband on May 4, 1859, married Elizabeth J. Brown, the youngest sister of his first wife. Andrew Baxter had born to him fourteen children. The brothers, John and Moses, also reared large families and this generation of the family, descendents of Andrew, John and Moses, have been quite prominent in the local history of the county, many of them having taught school and several of the boys taking up the profession of law. Mary Baxter, married George J. Duncan, who was born in Pennsylvania in 1827, married Mary Chapman, who died in 1862, and for second wife in 1863 he married Jane Chapman, sister of his first wife. The Duncan family were also prominent in local history and the descendents of both Baxter and Duncan accomplished a great amount of work, not only in clearing up the forests but along educational lines and in business. Nearly all of the elderly portion of the two families have finished their labors and have been called from earth. In the reunion last week 133 names were registered and a noticeable feature of the gathering was the young children, boys and girls, and those now engaged in the activities of the world's work. Their were few old people present. The threatening weather in the morning doubtless detained quite a number as the attendance was not so large as a year ago. Although cloudy and a little cool for out of door enjoyment those present seemed the have a jolly good time and many remained until late in the afternoon visiting and renewing acquaintances. The officers for the past year were Miles Baxter, president; J. H. Baxter, J. R. Duncan, R. C. Baxter and C. O. Baxter, vice presidents; J. Shaffer Treas.; and Imo Zimmerman, Sect. Great credit is due to the families of John J. and Thomas J. Baxter and John Duncan, local residents, for their efforts to make the reunion a success and when it comes to the dinner, every family represented was in evidence with well filled baskets. The long tables were loaded to the limit with everything necessary for the satisfaction of a hungry crowd. One noticeable event was the beautiful cake presented by Mrs. Philo Wolf, neatly lettered in colors, Baxter-Duncan reunion, Aug, 29, 1912. As to quality of cakes sampled as well as the quantity of provisions there was no opportunity to award premiums for the best judges could not decide in equity the merits of one over the another. It is generally known that these families have affiliated with the democratic party as a rule and a straw vote of the voters was taken at the dinner table resulting as follows: Wilson 13, Debs 7, Taft 5, Roosevelt 2, Chafin 2. In the reorganization the following officers elected for the ensuing year: President, Miles Baxter, Auburn; Secretary, Hazel Duncan, Waterloo; Treasurer, Miss Inez Chapman, R. F. D. Waterloo. From a distance a number of relatives were, present including delegations from Auburn, Ashley, Elkhart, Ft. Wayne, Grand Rapids, Hamilton and Oklahoma City. A short literary program impromptu, helped to make the afternoon enjoyable. The next reunion will be held in the Waterloo school park, the last Thursday in August, 1913. (Re: Waterloo Press - Sept. 5, 1912)

The reunion of Elisha W. Beard's family was enjoyed at the home of B. B. Long and wife, Aug. 30, 1897. By invitation of the Longs, James Ervin and wife, Benton Beard and wife, A. J. Beard and wife, A. C. Jackman and wife F. D. Lemon and wife, C. W. Beard and wife, Mrs. Clara Bates, of Milwaukee, were present constituting the entire family now living, except Jason Beard, now residing in Oklahoma. This reunion was called on account of Mrs. Jackman and Mrs. Lemon leaving for their home in Oklahoma, and a pleasant visit was enjoyed together, and a very rich and elegant dinner served, after which all (fifteen in number) visited the gallery and a group picture was taken. After this they were joined by Mr. Wm. Boyles, Mrs. Walter Thompson, of Butler, Ind., at the tea table, and a very pleasant hour was passed. Then came the good byes and that was not so pleasant, this being perhaps for all time, but with a hope of renewing this reunion, and more contemplating the meeting of those now resting, awaiting the resurrection. A. C. Jackman and wife made a flying call and bade his three brother and relatives farewell in the country, and are now ready for their trip to their western home, to look after the interest of their farm, but will reside in Oklahoma City, O. T., where F. D. Lemon has been employed in a large dry goods store. And now through The Press, we say farewell, not only to relatives, but to our many friends in DeKalb county, where we spent our younger days. A. C. Jackman (Re: Waterloo Press - Sept. 5, 1897)

The eighteenth annual Wm. Cox family reunion was held, at the pleasant and commodious home of Mr. and Mrs. I. N. Cox at Ashley, Indiana, Saturday, Oct. 7. In the early morning the local representatives were in evidence and were soon very busy in arranging tables and chairs to accommodate the relatives and friends who came for all directions and by the final enrolment it was ascertained there were 70 name son the register. Long Tables were spread with the bountiful gifts of nature and it required two sittings to accommodate all present. The out-door bracing atmosphere and the long drive experienced by many who were present, sharpened the appetites and yet there were many baskets full taken up after all had been satisfied. The day was pleasant and everyone seemed to be in good humor. The excellent preparations of the staples as well as luxuries in the menu provided that the women were experts in the culinary art and in quantity several brought baskets of huge proportions to supply those who were not provided for. The generosity of those in charge could not have been surprised. After dinner hour some time was spent in the literary part of the program and officers were elected for the ensuing year as follows: Mrs. Harriet Wilsey of Traverse City, Mich., was chose president and Mrs. Viola Huett of New Port, Michigan, secretary. It was decided that the next reunion would be held at he home of Mr. and Mrs. John Wilsey, Traverse City, Mich. Those present from out of town were: Mrs. Laura Rose of Alden, Mich.; Mr. and Mrs. Emery Burch and two children, Ellen and Leon, of Bay Shore, Mich.; Mrs. Harriet Wilsey, Traverse City, Mich.; Mrs. Nancy Terwilleger, White Cloud, Mich.; Mr. Miles Cox, Summit City (Re: Unknown newspaper)

A most pleasant reunion of the Cox family was held on last Friday, Oct. 26, 1894, at the home of Simeon Cox, Big Prairie, Newaygo county, Mich. The relatives and guest numbered forty-one. The children were all present but Otis, who lives near Coldwater. This time honored custom is to be observed every year in honor and loving remembrance by the children and grandchildren and other relatives of the departed parents of the Cox family. A family who in the early pioneer days of this country through hardships helped make our country what it is. The occasion was one long to be remembered. After a most bountiful dinner was served the guests were seated, the Potts family delighted the company with excellent music. Take it all in all the Cox reunion was a pleasant meeting, The next family reunion will be held at the home of Otis Cox, Coldwater, Mich. (Re: Unknown newspaper)

The second annual reunion of the Cox family occurred at the residence of Otis Cox in southeast Coldwater township on the 10th ist. The following named relative from a distance were present; Newton Cox, and family, John May, of Ashley, Ind.; Isaac Getts and family and Joseph Miller and family of Hudson, Ind.; Mrs. Samuel Mortorff and son, of Summit, Ind.; Simeon Cox of Newaygo Co., Mich.; Mrs. Terwilliger and daughter, of White Cloud, Mich.; Otis L. Cox, of White Pigeon; George Preston, of Hastings, Mich.; O. A. Vanderbilt and family of Batavia. The day was very pleasantly spent in visiting, music, games and other amusements, making it one long to be remembered by all who participated. (Re: Coldwater Courier, Oct 19, 1895)

The family of William and Nancy Cox deceased met Oct. 1, 1896, at the residence of Mrs. Sarah A. Mortorff. There were fifty-two present, including seven children. The relatives from a distance were Simeon S. Cox of Newyago county, Michigan; Miles S. Cox and Harriet E. Wilsey of Traverse, Michigan; Otis Cox and wife, Miss Belle Cox and Mr. Ted Cox and wife of Coldwater, Mich.; Laura Rose of Williamsburg, Mich.; O. Vanderbelt and wife and daughter Lettie, Batavia, Mich.; Mr. Preston and wife, Maysville, In. Other present were Samuel Mortorff, wife and family, I. N. Cox, wife and family, I. H. Getts, wife and family, Sol Gear, wife and family, J. K. Miller, wife and two daughters, Ira Mortorff, wife and child, Jerry Mortoff, and wife, Orin Goodrich and wife, Mr. May of Ashley, and George Smith and wife of Ossian, Ind. Dinner was served which was a credit to Mrs. Mortorff. A good time was had by all present. Mr. Simeon Cox, the oldest of this family cut the first stick of timber on the land where Ashley now send forth smoke from her shops and factories. The next reunion will be held at the home of Mr. M. S. Cox, in Traverse, Mich. One Who Was There (Re: Unknown newspaper)

An unusually pleasant gathering was held Wednesday, Oct. 14, at the residence of Otis B. Cox, Coldwater township, when the relatives and friends of Wm. Cox family met to spend the day in a family reunion. After a forenoon given to general greetings and visiting, an elegant dinner was daintily served and heartily enjoyed by all. A short but interesting program, consisting of talks, historical sketches, recitations and music was rendered in the afternoon. Those present from a distance were Mr. Isaac Getz, son and daughter and Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Miller, of Hudson, Ind.; Mrs. and Mrs. Freed, of Summit, Ind.; Mrs. and Mrs. Ira Mortoff and I. N. Cox, of Ashley, Ind.; and Mr. and Mrs. Orman Mortoff, of Salem, Ind. Mr. I. N. Cox was chosen president and Mrs. Jennie Miller secretary of the ensuing year. The next reunion will be held at the home of Mrs. Freed. (Re: Courier Coldwater, Oct. 18, 1902)

The annual reunion of Wm. Cox family was celebrated at the home of Mr. and Mrs. B. O. Cox of southeast Coldwater township, on Wednesday, Oct. 14. (penciled in 1908) Wm. Cox emigrated from northern Ohio in 1850 and settled in DeKalb Co., Ind. Seven children lived to raise families and those families have just held their fifteenth reunion. Sixty of the friends and relatives were present. The weather was favorable and the company amused themselves with out-door sports and renewing old acquaintances. Among those from out-of-town were Mr. and Mrs. Roy Van Auken, of Hudson; Mr. and Mrs. Emery Rose, of Alden, Mich.; Miles Cox and Mrs. John Wilsey, of Summit, Mich.; Mr. and Mrs. I. N. Cox and Mrs. Joseph Miller, of Ashley, Ind., Mr. and Mrs. Emmet Cox, of Corunna, Ind., Mrs. John May, of St. Joe, Ind., Mrs. Sarah Field and Jerry Mortoff, of Summit, Ind., Mr. and Mrs. Orin Mortoff, of Stroh, Ind.; Mr. and Mrs. O. A. Vanderbilt and George Miller, of Batavia. The program consisted of singing, recitations and short talks. The Rev. M__ Bachelor, of Coldwater, contributed not a little to the pleasure of the occasion while Newton Cox acted as family historian. As the afternoon was far spent farewells were said, all hoping to meet in 1909 in reunion with Mrs. Sarah Freed. (following article was reunion news) Mr. and Mrs. Sylvester Olney, of Traverse City, are guests of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Cox of Girard. Mrs. Olney is a sister of Mr. Cox. (Re: Courier, Coldwater, Michigan, October 19, 1908)

The ninth annual reunion of the Carnahan family has come and gone and passed into history. They assembled at the old homestead of Samuel Carnahan, now occupied by his widow, Elizabeth and their son, Perry, to do honor tot the four remaining ancestors, Hezekiah and wife, Elizabeth, wife of Samuel Carnahan of DeKalb Co., and James Carnahan of Oakwood, Ohio. The day was very warm and pleasant and everything had been previously arranged to make the reunion a success. Many came from a distance, arriving the day before. At the noon hour the many well filled baskets were unloaded at the long table which had been fixed under a large canopy of canvass sufficiently to accommodated one hundred and four persons, nevertheless the second table had to be arranged to accommodate the large crowd. After all had done justice to the any good things, Mr. Rhinehold, the photographer, of Auburn, arranged them under a large sugar tree and took their picture. They then listened to speeches music and recitations, which was amusing, entertaining and interesting. The committee appointed by Perry Carnahan, the President, consisting of Harry Fuller of Oakwood, Ohio, Milton, James, Abner and John Carnahan of DeKalb Co., reported that the next reunion would be held at William Moudy's east of Auburn. Wm. Moudy being elected president for the coming year, and son, W. E. Moudy, retained to act as secretary for another year. Harry Fuller, Milton Carnahan and Ellen Moudy were appointed as a memorial committee. At a late hour they all returned to their several homes, happy with the ties of relationship made stronger and that they had attended on of the best reunions ever held it their history. (Re: Auburn Weekly Courier Sept. 7, 1905)

Th sixth annual reunion of the Clark family was held at the pleasant rural home of Mr. and Mrs. Allen Wolf last Saturday, Aug. 23. The guests began to arrive early in the day and all were greeted with a cordial welcome. A large tent was erected on the beautiful lawn under which three large tables were place. It was a delightful cool day and the guests assembled until 156 had arrived. At the noon hour they were seated around the tables beneath the tent and the dinner prepared by the ladies present was an elaborate one to say the least. All those present enjoyed the feast and did ample justice to the dinner prepared. After dinner Mrs. Bunker, the photo artist of Butler, being present, arranged a large company on the front porch and took a group picture. After that, Allen Wolf, president, took charge and called the company to order. A short program was then carried out which proved of much interest. A letter of cheer and regret from Rev. and Mrs. John A. Clark, of Ukiah, Calif., was read by the secretary, also one from Freeman VanWagner and family of Columbus, Ohio, they being unable to be present. The next year's reunion will be held on the fourth Saturday of August, 1914, at the home of Sylvanus Clark, at Ashley, Ind. the following officers were elected for the coming year: President, Sylvanus Clark; secretary, and treasurer, Bernice Clark, both of Ashley. Those present from a distance were: Rev. J. H. Mosshammer and family, of Perry, Ind., Mr. and Mrs. P. Carl Wolf and Mrs. Imo Clark, of Detroit, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Rindfliech, of Cleveland, Ohio, Miss Irma Apple, of Dayton, Ohio, Mrs. Mattie Oberlin and son Harry, and Mr. and Mrs. Eddie Clark, of Coldwater, Mich., and Mr. and Mrs. John H., Rohrbaugh, of Jansen, Neb. This family is especially blessed in some respects, inasmuch as they have three ministers of their number who can take part in the divine exercises at such a gathering every year. There were a number of incidents of an unfortunate nature that kept a number from attending this year, and also hindered somewhat in the carrying out of the program. Mrs. John Clark, a sister of Mrs. Allen Wolf, was one of the unfortunate ones in that her husband's barn burned on Friday afternoon, David Clark also met with the misfortune of losing the contents of the barn in the fire which occurred early Friday morning, Mrs. Edson Beard was kept from attending on account of an attack of quinsy, the secretary, Bryon Platt, was unable to attend on account of his wife being sick with typhoid fever. The hostess made a large cake, which was very attractive and occupied a prominent place on the table. It was decorated on the top with red, white and blue and contained the date of the reunion, Aug. 23. It attracted much attention and was the subject of favorable comment. (Re: Waterloo Press - Aug. 25, 1913)

The third annual reunion of the Closson family met at the home of Mr. and Mrs. S. H. Hine last Saturday. There were thirty present and a big dinner was served on two long tables beneath the shade of the trees on the Hine lawn. It was a very happy time for those present. The out-of-town visitors were: Mrs. Amidon Powers, of Angola, Prof. Dudley and family, of Mongo, Bert Oury and family, of Flint, Mr. and Mrs. G. H. Dudley, and Mr. and Mrs. Barber, of Orland, C. J. Closson and daughter Dorothy, Cloy Myers and family, Mrs. Carrie Huffman, Mr. and Mrs. Russell Cameron, and daughter, of Pleasant Lake. (Re: Waterloo Press - Aug. 22, 1917)

Last Sunday, there was a reunion of the Denison and Imhoff families in the grove on the farm of L. L. Denison, one mile east and one mile south of Waterloo. Those present were: L.L. Denison and family of Garrett, Geo. O. Denison and family of Auburn, F.E. Denison wife and daughter Mabel and Mr. O.T. Salyer of Toledo, O., Mrs. A. W. Lytle and daughter Flossie of Valparaiso, Ind., Frank Lynn and wife of Garrett, Frank Fisk and wife, T.E. Imhoff wife and son of Waterloo, S. P. Imhoff wife and son, Ralph Thomas and family of Auburn, M. Kiblinger and Delia Kiplinger, Frank Myers wife and children, and Mrs. Hannah Myers of Waterloo, W. J. Eberly and family of Waterloo, Clyde Fee and family, Carp Lake and Katie and Eva Denison of Findlay, Ohio, J. A. Denison wife and son and daughter, Wilson and Edna of Waterloo, and Miss Vinnie Bailey of Reading, Michigan. The place had been selected and prepared by L. L. Denison with a large tent, a long table, seats and swings and the time was spent in visiting, music and singing until the call for dinner. And all pronounced the picnic a grand success. (Re: Auburn Courier - Sept. 14, 1902)

The Duncan-Baxter families held their annual reunion in the Waterloo school park last Thursday. As soon as the members of the families began to arrive they entered into the spirit of the day and everyone seemed to have a good time. It was a big day for the Johns, and there were several John Duncans and several John Baxters. The two families are closely connected and for that reason they organized several years ago and have since been holding their reunions as one large family. In this way they meet many of their relatives and friends, and they form a very congenial party. It was necessary to spread two tables for the accommodation of the reunion, and after all were fed there was enough left to feed that many more. The Duncans like the Baxters are good cooks and good eaters, and every year their appetizing meals seem to grow better. Miles Baxter, president of the reunion, called the members of the two families to order after the dinner was over, and a business session was held and officers were elected for the ensuing year, which resulted as follows: President-Wm. Duncan; Secretary-Treasurer-Mrs. John C. Duncan; Vice President-To be the oldest member present at the next reunion. The next reunion will be held in the Waterloo school park on Thursday, Aug. 30, the time being fixed as the last Thursday of the month. After the business was transacted there were a number of speeches made and short talks which proved to be very entertaining to those present, Mr. John W. Baxter, of Auburn, gave a very interesting talk on the pioneer life of the Duncan and Baxter families, and in his remarks he brought the family down to the present generation, which still shows the same signs of thrift and staunch citizenship. After the program part of the meeting, which was an informal one, ice cream was served and the warm afternoon made it a treat that was much enjoyed. The following is a list of those who came from a distance to attend the reunion: Will Baxter and son, of Chicago; Mrs. Ralph Rainer and children of South Bend; P. V. Duncan and Miss Maude Duncan, of Toledo; Mrs. Lizzie Peck, of Edon; Joe Baxter, Mrs. Baughman and Miss Maud Baughman of Kalamazoo; Mrs. Homer Henning of Detroit; C. S. McLeod, of Garrett; Mrs. and Mrs. J. W. Baxter, Miles Baxter and wife and children of Auburn, and John Baxter and wife, of Butler. (Re: Waterloo Press - Sept. 4, 1913)

Last Thursday was family reunion day in Waterloo for sure. The Duncan-Baxter families assembled in the school park and by the time the noon hour arrived there was a good sized crowd present. A dinner was spread on one long table under the shade of the park trees and there was a happy crowd as they assembled about the table to partake of the feast, which had been prepared. After dinner was over the company collected in a large group and some time was spent in visiting and when the meeting was called to order there were a number of members of the families who were called upon for short talks. The business part of the meeting was held and it resulted in the election of John W. Baxter, of Auburn, president, Sheldon Jackman, of Ashley, vice president, and Mrs. John C. Duncan, of Waterloo, secretary-treasurer. It was decide that the next meeting should be held in the school park in Waterloo the third Thursday of August. The presence of James R. Duncan, at one time a resident of Waterloo, who, a few weeks ago returned to his home in Elkhart, after having spent a couple of years in Florida, called attention to the fact that he was the oldest Duncan present, and he made a few remarks encouraging the continuation of such gatherings. One of the features of the dinner was a handsome cake baked by Mrs. Allen Wolf, decorated in colors and bore the words, "Duncan-Baxter Reunion, Aug. 27, 1914." It was a good as it looked as was the whole dinner. In all there were one hundred forty-six present and the day will be remembered for some time to come. (Re: Waterloo Press - Sept. 3, 1914)

The annual reunion of the Baxter-Duncan families brought out a large attendance at the school park last Thursday, and the register shows that one hundred twenty-five were present. No regular program had been arranged for the day but the time was engaged in having a genuine old fashioned reunion, such as visiting and renewing acquaintances, and telling of days gone bye. One of the special features of the Baxter-Duncan reunions is the dinner, and this year it was no less a feature than formerly, and it was a happy looking party as they were gathered at long tables under the shade of the big maples in the school park. The tables were loaded with everything imaginable that was good to eat. George Baxter, of Ft. Wayne was elected president, Dr. Wm. Duncan, of Waterloo, vice president, and Mrs. J. C. Duncan, Waterloo, secretary. In addressing the Duncan and Baxter families, Miss Agnes Baxter Jones said "My dear relatives and friends: For some weeks past I have thought I could not say anything today in behalf of our much loved family reunion. So many of our dear ones have gone from among us that I am sure we all must miss them. The last one to leave us was our much loved President, John W. Baxter. At our last meeting he requested us to make this one of the "very best reunion" we have ever had. Can we do this without his aid? I think not today, at least. Let us all endeavor to honor his advice in the discharge of every duty. I must now quote some of his words at the former Reunion; "That we, as member of the Duncan and Baxter families, have much to be proud of in our Ancestors. Please do not think me clannish or egotistical. Every person's kindred seems the best to them, which is a measure is true, as ours is to us." So now, my dear ones of a younger class, be faithful in the discharge of every known duty, and do no allow yourselves to become the least bit careless in this great work. Allow me to call the names of the loved ones who have left vacant places. Viz: Mrs. Lydia Baxter Jackman, Mrs. Mary Smith McLeod, Mary Jackman, Sherman B. Jackman, Cora Baxter, John Duncan, so faithful, unselfish and kind to us all, Mrs. May Kegeries Chapman, Mrs. Mary Duncan Chapman, Mrs. Dessie Kegeries Gramling, Mrs. Emma Baxter Fee, True Oberlin, John W. Baxter, Alvina Baxter Baughman. (Re: Waterloo Press - Sept. 2, 1915)

The DeLong family, residing in the vicinity of Corunna, held a very successful and interesting reunion at the home of James DeLong, Thursday, Aug. 29, to which nearly one hundred relatives and friends were in attendance. This was the first formal reunion of the family and an organization was effected by the election of Marion S. DeLong as president, Miss Opal DeLong as secretary and it was decided to hold the reunion next year at the home of Murl DeLong half a miles west of Sedan. The entertainment committee, composed of Rose DeLong, Ruth Warring, of Flint, Ind., and Mrs. Folick, of Churubusco, presented the following program, which was carried out to the credit of those mentioned. An address on the value of organization in the family reunions, by the president elect, M. S. DeLong, Song by Ila DeLong, Declamation Keith DeLong; Recitation, Helen DeLong; Recitation, Mary Wittig, Hicksville; Duet, Mr. Hovarter, of Sturgis and Mrs. Clark, of Elkhart; Declamation, Marie DeLong of Flint; and a recitation by Ruth DeLong. A social hour was spent renewing acquaintances and forming new ones. Of course a dinner "fit for a king" was served from long tables prepared for the occasion and it was in evidence that none forgot to bring a well sharpened appetite. The oldest person present was Mrs. Philema Jones of Coffeyville, Kan., and the youngest, Norma Edna Hovarter of Kalamazoo, four months old. (Re: Waterloo Press - Sept. 5, 1912)

The annual reunion of the Eberly family was held in Waterloo last Thursday. In the morning the falling of a shower of rain made the day seem threatening, and the local members of the family arranged to hold the meeting in the town hall. The large auditorium was soon in readiness. Tables were brought to the hall and when the morning trains came in from the east many were soon seen about the town hall. Those from this vicinity drove in early and everybody seemed to be happy. It had been intended to hold the reunion in the school park adjacent, but the change was made as fore stated. When the noon hours came the guest were all seated at two long tables which were laden with good things, and President, W. J. Eberly, called on Joshua Eberly of Auburn to ask God's blessing upon the assembly and then all were busy for an hour. It was the kind of dinners that made everyone present think that the war in Europe had no effect on the high cost of living. After the dinner was over and a short time was spent in visiting, the president called the company to order and extended to them a very cordial welcome. With the fact already demonstrated the Waterloo Eberlys could entertain the reunion, the visitors were well pleased with their trip to Waterloo. A letter was read by the secretary, C. J. Meyer, from Wm. M. Eberly, of Princeton, Ill., whom no trace had been had for forty years. The letter was signed by his entire family, and was in response to an invitation to be present. It added one more family to the list, and the letter was very interesting. The following program was then carried out: Quartet-Messrs. Lowman, Buss, Kutzner and Meyer. Vocal solo-Mrs. Goldie Miner, of New York City. Reading-Iris Smith, of Butler. History of the Eberly family, compiled by Miss Mary Eberly, read by Miss Vinnie Meyer. Reading-Helen Eberly. Quartet. A committee appointed on location consisted of George Riser, Chas. Eberly and George Kessler. The committee reported that the next reunion would be held at Beach City, Ohio, the third Thursday in August. The officers elected for the ensuing year are as follows: Josiah Eberly, presidents, and Wm. Stametts, secretary, both of Beach City, Ohio. There were one hundred present at this reunion. Those from Butler who were in attendance were as follows: Fred Seltenright, John Rise, James Diehl, C. A. Husselman and wife, R. J. Pugsley and wife, Edna Pugsley, Mrs. J. M. Deihl, Mrs. Lena Deihl, Colesta Diehl, Cora Seltenright, Ethel Riser, O. B. Diehl and wife, Lawrence Diehl, Geo. Riser and wife, Leland Diehl, Wilda Diehl, Edith Diehl, Shirley Diehl: From Wauseon, Ohio; David G. Eberly, Jerry Williams and wife, Geo. Kesler and wife: From Delta, Ohio, C. D. Eberly and wife, Geo. Hall and wife, Elmer Murry, David Eberly, A. T. Skeels and wife: From Edgerton, Ohio; Burl Maughler, Glen Keller, Dessie Keller, Ida Keller; From Auburn, Ind.; M. S. Kutzner and wife, Carl Kutzner, John Buss and wife, Joshua Eberly and wife, Edith Buss, Mrs. Ida Eberly, Mary Buss: From Waterloo, Ind.; Oscar Fulk and wife, W. J. Eberly and family, Theodore Eberly and family, Vern Lowman and family, C. J. Meyer and family, A. P. Meyer and family, Miss Mary Eberly, Daniel J. Eberly and wife, V. W. Lowman and wife, Miss Gleynne Stamets: From Stryder, Ohio: Geo. Murry; From LaGrange, Ind.: Geo. Dawson and wife: From New York City; Mrs. Goldie Lowman Miner. The following is a list of the especially invited guests; Mrs. Myranda Strayer, Ashley; Miss Iris Smith, Butler; Miss Kathryn Groscup, Auburn; Dr. E. K. Schurts, Miss Georgie Fee and H. C. Willis, editor of The Press and family, all of Waterloo. (Re: Waterloo Press - Aug. 27, 1914)

Mr. and Mrs. Theo. Eberly held a family reunion on Monday evening, entertaining to a six o'clock dinner in honor of their son, Harry Eberly, who left Tuesday for Vancouver, Wash., where he enlisted in the engineering corps. Those present were Jay Blodgett and wife, Ward Eberly and wife, and Motsie Durst and wife. On Sunday noon the Eberly home was also the scene of a happy dinner party, and Sunday evening Mr. and Mrs. Motsie Durst and Mr. And Mrs. Jay Blodget, the two ladies being daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Eberly, entertained the Eberly family at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Blodget. (Re: Waterloo Press - March 7, 1918)

Last Sunday, Aug. 26^th at the home of Mr. and Mrs. John Haines at their new home three miles southwest of Waterloo occurred the first reunion of the Haines family notwithstanding the big thunderstorm in the afternoon, all enjoyed a very pleasant day by having a good old time visit and also with some fine music. Of course the dinner was one of the main features which lacked not in quantity or quality and was heartily enjoyed by all present. Those present were Mr. and Mrs. John Miser and son, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Stall and guest, of Cincinnati, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Haines and two sons, Mr. and Mrs. John Kettle, son and two daughters, Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Pepple an son, Mr. and Mrs. Claud Rohrabaugh and two sons, Mr. and Mrs. John Haines, jr. and daughter, Mr. W. H. Haines, Mr. Ralph Stall, Mr. and Mrs. Rob. Carper, Mr. and Mrs. Mart Snyder and grandson. At about five o'clock all departed home feeling they had an enjoyable time. (Re: Waterloo Press Aug. 30, 1906)

The Annual Meeting of the Houlton Family was held in the grove on the old Houlton Farm, two miles east of Hamilton, on Monday, September 4. The weather was cool, preventing many from attending who usually come to these annual gatherings, but, notwithstanding this fact, there was a good attendance. Every town in the county was represented, and farmers and their families were present from every township. Ample preparation had been made by the Houlton brethren and their wives and daughters for the entertainment of all those who had come without, provisions. Dinner was announced a t12 o'clock. It was a good sight to see the tables covered with the good things prepared for the entertainment of the guest. Dinner lasted until two o'clock. Music was furnished by the Hamilton band. After dinner a meeting was called by M. F. Houlton, president of the association. Rev. Klotz opened the meeting with prayer, after which the band played. Then came several declamations and singing by the young people. At three o'clock the president requested me to deliver an address. I was reminded that my talk be brief and so I confined myself mostly to a discussion of the annual meeting of the old settlers of DeKalb county in 1906. At the last old settlers' meeting at St. Joe, June 15, 1905, it was decided to hold the next meeting in the Houlton grove. When the Old Settlers' organization was first established, the date set for the annual meeting was the third Thursday in June. The Houlton family reunions are held each year on Sept. 4, That was the date in 1833 that John Houlton built the first log cabin in DeKalb county. Until 1835, no other white person had settled in the county. It seems right to me that, in honor of those brave pioneers, John Houlton and wife, the old setters should meet with the Houlton family in joint celebration on Sept. 4. This grove is located one hundred yards from the place where the old cabin was erected. It is a beautiful place, and is on the south bank of Fish creek. There are rare trees in the grove. It is owned and under the care of the youngest son Lewis and one of the most beautiful places in our county for the holding of public gatherings of any kind. As president of the county association, I have consulted the Houlton brothers and they assured me that if it is decided to hold the meeting jointly with them on the date of their annual meeting they will do al in their power to make it a success. I shall do everything possible to secure the assistance of all on the board with me as officers of the association to carry out the above suggestions. I would be pleased to have the editors of every paper in the county give us their assistance in bringing this matter before their many readers. Respectfully submitted, R. M. Lockhart, Pres. Old Settler's Association. (Re: Auburn Courier Sept. 13, 1905)