My Genealogy Hound

JOSEPH SULTZBACH, after a residence of thirty years in Clark County, died at his home in Moorefield Township, April 30, 1886. He was what may be properly termed a successful man, and one who was the architect of his own fortunes, arising from an humble position in life, and pursuing that course which gained him the esteem and confidence of his fellowmen. He was born April 30, 1812, in York County, Pa., and traced his ancestry to Germany and England. He was reared to agricultural pursuits, which he followed all his life, and at an early age was trained to habits of industry, growing up with a limited education. His father was a tanner by trade, and spent his last years in Pennsylvania. His mother was a well educated lady, and passed away prior to the decease of her husband.

Mr. Sultzbach, when a young man of twenty years, was married in April, 1832, to Miss Catherine Longnecker, a native of his own county, and born December 26, 1811. Her parents were Christian and Catherine Longnecker, likewise natives of Pennsylvania. There were born of this union the following children: Elizabeth, Henry, a resident of Kansas; Joseph, of Clark County, this State; Franklin, who makes his home in Springfield; Amanda, Mrs. Samuel Markwood, of the State of Washington; John; Kate, Mrs. McLean, of Moorefield Township; Hyman, a railroad contractor in Texas; Webster; Annie, the wife of John Hurnberger, of Moorefield Township; Howard, who operates the home farm; and Calvin, who died in childhood.

Remaining in his native State until 1856, Mr. Sultzbach then emigrated to Clark County, Ohio, and purchased the land upon which his widow now lives. They commenced life in true pioneer style, experiencing many difficulties, and laboring with great industry in order to make for themselves a home and a competence. Mr. Sultzbach in his family was kind and indulgent and a good provider, and among his neighbors he bore the name of being remarkably obliging and hospitable, aiming to do by those around him as he would be done by. For many years he was identified with the German Reformed Church, and was a thorough and attentive Bible student. In politics he was a Republican, and he held the various minor offices, including that of Township Trustee for many years. He left to his widow a valuable estate, embracing three hundred and forty acres of fine farming land, with good buildings and all the other appurtenances of a well-regulated farm, including live stock and machinery. It stands as a fitting monument to the energy and perseverance of its projector.

Mrs. Sultzbach proved the assistant of her husband in all his worthy undertakings, and labored faithfully by his side in the accumulation of their property. She likewise was identified with the German Reformed Church, while her kindness and charity are proverbial. Among and old young she is a universal favorite, and “Grandma Sultzbach” is held in affectionate regard by all who know her.