Person Page - 104

     James M. Bricker was born on 19 August 1875 in Ohio.^4,2,5 He was the son of David Bricker and Margaret Jane Morgan.³ In the census of 29 June 1880 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, he is listed as the son of D. Bricker. His name appears as J. M. Bricker. He is four years old and was born in Ohio, as were his parents.⁶

     James M. Bricker married Blanche McCauley, daughter of Orlando McCauley and Caroline, on 8 March 1900.^1,7 In the census of 27 June 1900 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, James M. Bricker, shown as James Bricker, appears as a head of household, which includes his wife, Blanche Bricker. He is 25 years old and was born in Ohio, as were his parents. His birthday is given as August 1874. He has been married for two months and is working in a factory. He rents his home.⁸ James M. Bricker survived the death of his wife, Blanche McCauley who died on 28 November 1906 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.¹ In the census of 28 April 1910 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, he is listed as the son of David Bricker. He is 24 years old and was born in Ohio, as were his parents. He is listed as a widow and working as a carpenter. His two young sons are living with his deceased wife's father, Orland T. McCurley, in 1910. His name appears as James M. Bricker.^9,10

     James M. Bricker died on 6 May 1956 at age 80.² He is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in Salem Township, Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.²

     Blanche McCauley was born on 8 June 1879 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio. She was one of three children.^1,3,4 She was the daughter of Orlando McCauley and Caroline.¹ When she was a young girl in her teens she was converted and united with the church.¹

     Blanche McCauley married James M. Bricker, son of David Bricker and Margaret Jane Morgan, on 8 March 1900.^1,5 In the census of 27 June 1900 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, she is listed as the wife of James M. Bricker. Her name appears as Blanche Bricker. She is 21 years old and was born in Ohio, as were her parents. Her birthday is given a June 1878. She has been married for two months and is the mother of no children.⁶ Blanche McCauley died on 8 November 1906 at Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, and she was 27 years, five months and 20 days old.^1,3 She was survived by her husband, her chldren Olan and Lauren, her sister, Miss Effie, her brother Ray, and her parents.¹ She is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in Salem Township, Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio. The funeral was conducted by her pastor, D. F. Helms, assited by Rev. J. W. Lilly, at the residence on N. E. Smith street, Friday Nov. 30th at 1:30pm. The hymns she had chosen "Nearer My God To Thee," and "Asleep in Jesus," were sung.^1,3

     OBITUARY: Mrs. James Bricker: Blanche, the first born of Orlando and Caroline McCauley, saw the light of life on the home farm, one mile east of Hicksville, June 8, 1879. She was married to James Bricker March 8, 1900 and died about sunset, Nov. 28, 1906, aged 27 years, 5 months and 20 days. She was one of three children, and the first of the family to pass into the shadow we call death. God gave her two sons, Olan and Lauren, too young to realize fully their loss. The husband with his children, the parents, the sister, Miss Effie, and the brother Ray, with many relatives and friends sorrow greatly because she is gone. Nevertheless they do not sorrow without hope. She made God her trust. When a girl in her teens she was converted and united with the church and she tried to be faithful and useful. She was interested in the church and the work of its several departments, the Sunday school, Epworth league, the regular and special services of God's house. When she was in the valley and shadow of death, she could say, "I fear no evil." Knowing perfectly that death was near, she arranged nearly every detail for her funeral and burial; her apparel, casket, place of burial, the songs to be sung and the place and character of the service. Knowing her hour was come, she sent for dear ones and the pastor that she might give them her parting messages. To all she said, "All is well; Heaven is sweet. While I would like to live for my little ones, God will in some way provide for them; so it is all right." She said to those about her bed, " Do you hear the music?" And she tried to sing also. In this joyful way she fell asleep and for hours after death a sweet smile rested upon her face. The funeral was conducted by her pastor, D. R. Helms, assisted by Rev. J. W. Lilly, at the residence on N. E. Smith street, Friday Nov. 30, at 1:30 p. m. Many were in attendance. The hymns she had chosen "Nearer My God to Thee," and "Asleep in Jesus," were sung, and then all that was earthly of this daughter, sister, wife and mother was borne to the Forest Home cemetery and committed to earth to await the resurrection day
     All the bereaved have the heartfelt sympathy of the entire community in this great sorrow.¹

     Lauren James Bricker was born on 13 November 1903 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio. He was the son of James M. Bricker and Blanche McCauley.¹ Lauren James Bricker survived the death of his mother, Blanche McCauley, who died on 28 November 1906 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.¹ In the census of 25 April 1910 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, he is listed as a grandson of Orlando McCauley. His name appears as Lauren J. Bricker. He is six years old and was born in Ohio, as were his parents.²

     Olan M. Bricker was born on 28 February 1901 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio. He was the son of James M. Bricker and Blanche McCauley.¹ Olan M. Bricker survived the death of his mother, Blanche McCauley, who died on 28 November 1906 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.¹ In the census of 25 April 1910 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, he is listed as a grandson of Orlando McCauley. His name appears as Olan N. Bricker. He is nine years old and was born in Ohio, as were his parents.²

     Sarah Gorden was born on 8 October 1826 in Antwerp, Paulding County, Ohio.^2,5 She was the daughter of Samuel Gorden.⁴

     Sarah Gorden married John Landis, son of David Landis and Mary, on 4 November 1849 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.^6,7 In the census of 12 August 1850 in Crane Township, Paulding County, Ohio, Sarah appears in the household of Samuel Gorden as Sarah Landis. She is 23 years old and was born in Ohio.⁷ In the census of 26 June 1880 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, she is listed as the wife of John Landis. Her name appears as Sarah Landis. She is 53, born in Ohio, and is keeping house. Her parents were both born in New York.³

     Sarah Gorden died on 13 January 1898 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, at age 71.^2,5 She is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in Salem Township, Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.^2,5

     OBITUARY: "On Thursday, of last week, after but a short illness, there occurred, at the family residence in this city, the death of Mr.s John Landis. Many friends hardly realized that she was sick until she was gone from the scenes of this world forever. Sarah Gorden Landis was born Oct. 8, 1826, on the Maumee river, below Antwerp, on the old Gorden farm, thus making her one of the elder settlers of this country. She became the wife of John Landis Nov. 4, 1849. Six children were born to them during the years of their happy wedded life. Of these, two sons and a daughter, survive the dear old mother. Deceased was 71 years, 3 months and 5 days. She, with her husband, became members of the Christian church in 1894, and was buried from the lecture room of the new church building Saturday morning at 10:30. Pastor Speer officiated. Interment at Forest Home."¹

     Luella E. Gaff was also known as Louella Bricker.

     Luella E. Gaff was born on 5 October 1870 in Butler, Ohio.^4,2 She was the daughter of Rev. A. E. Gaff.³ Luella converted and joined the United Brethren church when she was about ten years old and continued consistently with this relationship.² Luella was educated at the public schools in Hicksville, Ohio.² Her brother Wm. was murdered during a robbery in Arkansas City, Kansas where he had been employed as night clerk in the St. Charles Hotel.⁵

     Luella E. Gaff married David Franklin Bricker, son of Henry Bricker and Mary Ann Bair, on 27 September 1890 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio. They were married by Rev. D. B. Keller in the United Brethren parsonage.^6,2 In the census of 1 June 1900 in Hicksville Township, Defiance County, Ohio, she is listed as the wife of David Franklin Bricker. Her name appears as Luelle E. Bricker. She is 29 years old and was born in Ohio, as was her mother. Her father was born in Indiana. She has been married 10 years and is the mother of three children, but only two are still living.⁷

     Luella E. Gaff died on 20 September 1914 in Manitou, Colorado, at age 43.^8,2 She is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in Salem Township, Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio. Funeral services were held from her home and were conducted by Reb. J. F. Miller of Bucyrus, Ohio.^2,1 She was survived by her husband, three boys, Linn, Derril and Vance, her father and mother, one sister, and four brothers.²

     OBITUARY: "Luella Ethelyn Gaff, eldest daughter of Rev. and Mrs. A. E. Gaff, was born near Butler, Ind., October 4, 1870. She was educated in the Hicksville schools; was united in marriage with D. Frank Bricker September 27, 1890, by Rev. D. B. Keller in the United Brethren parsonage at Hicksville. There was born to this happy union four children. The eldest, J. O. preceded when about three years of age. She was converted and joined the United Brethren church when about ten years of age and continued consistently this relation unto the end. She was a member of the Eastern Star, Pythian Sisters, Acme Club and W. C. T. U.. She was a worthy matron of the Eastern Stars for two years and also served as associate matron until her resignation because of her moved to the west in quest of health. She was always a dutiful daughter, a devoted and affectionate wife, and a loving mother. Her throne of power was her home over which she lovingly presided with queenly beauty and taste. Her husband has truly said of her, "She knew how to raise boys." She passes to her rest Sunday afternoon, September 20, at Manitou, Colorado, one of the beauty spots of earth. Yet her heavenly home is even more beautiful. She is survived by her devoted and painstaking husband, three boys, Linn, Derril, and Vance, father and mother, one sister, four brothers and a great host of friends. Funderal services were held from the home Thursday afternoon at two o'clock attended by a great host of citizens and friends expressive of the high esteem of the deceased and the bereaved family. Rev. J. F. Miller of Bucyrus, O., conducted the service."²

     Lynn G. Bricker was born on 6 September 1894 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.¹ He was the son of David Franklin Bricker and Luella E. Gaff.^2,3 In the census of 1 June 1900 in Hicksville Township, Defiance County, Ohio, he is listed as the son of Frank Bricker. His name appears as Lynn G. Bricker. He is five years old and was born in Ohio, as were his parents. His birth date is given as September 1894.⁴ Lynn G. Bricker survived the death of his mother, Luella E. Bricker, who died on 20 September 1914.³ Lynn G. Bricker survived the death of his father, David Franklin Bricker, who died on 19 May 1936 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.² ; Vance and Lynn Bricker and Minnie.

     Walter Vance Bricker was born on 2 April 1902 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio. He was the son of David Franklin Bricker and Luella E. Gaff.^2,3 ; 1908 - maybe - Darrell Bricker, Forrest Bricker, unknown, and Vance Bricker. Walter Vance Bricker survived the death of his mother, Luella E. Bricker, who died on 20 September 1914.³ In 1936, Walter was living in New York City, New York. He was living at New York City, New York, at his mother's death on 16 April 1936.² He survived the death of his father, David Franklin Bricker, who died on 19 May 1936 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.² ; Vance with horse king. ; Vance and Lynn Bricker and Minnie.

     Walter Vance Bricker died on 19 March 1977 at age 74. He is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in Salem Township, Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.¹

     I. O. Bricker was born on 16 September 1891 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.⁴ He was the son of David Franklin Bricker and Luella E. Gaff.^1,2

     I. O. Bricker died on 18 July 1894 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, at age 2. He was 2 years, 10 months, 3 days old. A bright, sweet little boy, and the joy and comfort of home.⁴ He is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in Salem Township, Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio. The funeral services took place from the U. B. church, conducted by Reb. C. M. Eberly, assisted by Rev. J. W. Lilly.^4,3

     OBITUARY: "I. O., son of Frank and Luella Bricker, was born September 16, 1891, died July 18, 1894. aged 2 years, 10 months, 3 days. I. O. was a bright, sweet little boy, and the joy and comfort of the home. The funeral services took place from the U. B. church July 20, conducted by Rev. C. M. Eberly, assisted by Rev. J. W. Lilly."⁴

     Darril Bricker was born in September 1894 in Ohio.³ He was the son of David Franklin Bricker and Luella E. Gaff.^1,2 In the census of 1 June 1900 in Hicksville Township, Defiance County, Ohio, he is listed as the son of Frank Bricker. His name appears as Daril F. Bricker. He is three years old and was born in Ohio, as were his parents. His birth date is given as June 1896.⁴ ; 1908 - maybe - Darrell Bricker, Forrest Bricker, unknown, and Vance Bricker. Darril Bricker survived the death of his mother, Luella E. Bricker, who died on 20 September 1914.² Darril Bricker was living at Woodland, Yolo County, California, at the death of his father on 16 April 1936.¹

     Orlando McCauley married Caroline in 1878.² In the census of 25 April 1910 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, Orlando McCauley, shown as Orlando T. McCauky, appears as a head of household which include his wife, Caroline, his son, Ray McCauley, his daughter, Effie McCauley, his grandsons, Olan M. Bricker and Lauren James Bricker . He is 59 years old, was born in Ohio, and has been married for 32 years. His father was born in Pennsylvania and his mother's place of birth is given as Ohio. He is a farmer and owns his own farm.³

     Caroline was born in 1848 in Ohio.²

     Caroline married Orlando McCauley in 1878.² In the census of 25 April 1910 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, she is listed as the wife of Orlando McCauley. Her name appears as Carolina McCauky. She is 62 years old, born in Ohio, and has been married for 32 years. Her parents were born in Germany.³

     Effie McCauley was born after 1879 in Ohio.^1,2 She was the daughter of Orlando McCauley and Caroline. In the census of 25 April 1910 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, she is listed as the daughter of Orlando McCauley. Her name appears as Effie McCauky. She is 28 years old, single, and was born in Ohio, as were her parents. She is working as a school teacher in the public schools.²

     Ray McCauley was born after 1879.¹ He was the son of Orlando McCauley and Caroline. In the census of 25 April 1910 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, he is listed as the son of Orlando McCauley. His name appears as Ray W. McCauky. He is 23, single, and was born in Ohio, as were his parents. He is attending school.²

     Rev. A. E. Gaff was also known as Rev. J. E. Gass.² A. worked as a Lutheran minister..³ He was living at Albion, Noble County, Indiana, at the death of their son, Wm. Gaff.

     Ray Gaff was born. He was the son of Rev. A. E. Gaff.

     George Francis Delong was born on 9 January 1844.² He was the son of Solomon Delong and Mariah Landis.²

     George Francis Delong died on 28 April 1916 in Newville, Dekalb County, Indiana, at age 72.²

     David Delong was born after 1841. He was the son of Solomon Delong and Mariah Landis. David worked as minister.

     John Bare was born on 11 September 1844 in Trumbell County, Ohio.^1,3,2 He was the son of Martin Bair and Susanna Gilbert.^1,2 In the census of 3 August 1850 in Bazetta Township, Trumbull County, Ohio, John appears in the household of Martin Bair as John Bear. He is six years old and was born in Ohio.⁴ In 1855, John Bare moved with his parents to Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.¹ In the census of 14 June 1860 in Springfield Township, Allen County, Indiana, John appears in the household of Martin Bair as John Bair. He is 18 years old and was born in Ohio.⁵ During the Civil War, John Bare signed up with the 30th indiana Volunteers Infantry circa 1862. He received an honroable discharge at the end of his service.¹

     John Bare married Cordelia Bricker, daughter of Conrad Bricker and Susanna Hahn, on 11 December 1864.^6,7,8 In the census of 3 June 1870 in Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana, John Bare is listed as the head of a household which included the following household member, Cordelia Bricker. He is 27 years old, his occupation is shown as fires locomotive, and he was born in Ohio. Also listed in his household is Jane Griman, age 12, born in Indiana. John appears as John Bare.⁹ In the census of 21 June 1880 at Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, John Bare, shown as John Bare, appears as a head of household. Living with him is his wife, Cordelia Bricker. He is 36 years old, working as a engineer, and was born in Ohio. His parents were born in Pennsylvania. Also living in this household and shown as a nephew is C. Lobdell, age 23, born in Indiana, and working as a laborer. With him and shown as other is Nancy Lobdell, age 22, and both in Ohio. They are both shown as married.¹⁰ In the census of 11 June 1900 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, John Bare, shown as John Bare, appears as a head of household, which includes his wife, Cordelia Bricker. He is 56 years old and was born in Ohio, September 1843. He has been married for 35 years, is working as an engineer and rents his home. He is living near David L. Landis.¹¹

     John Bare's second wife was Mary Hoffman. They married in April 1903.¹

     John Bare died on 16 September 1908 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, at age 64.^1,2 He is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in Salem Township, Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.^1,2

     OBITUARY: "John Bare, son of Martin and Susan Bare, was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, September 11, 1844. In 1855 his parents moved to Defiance county, locating in Hicksville township. Here he grew to manhood. But when he was still in his teens he heard the call of his country and enlisted in the 30th Ind. V. I. to put down the rebellion. He was a valiant soldier and received an honorable discharge at the end of his service. In the Autumn of 1864 he was married to Miss Cordelia Bricker, who died February 22,1902. In April 1903, he was married again to Miss Mary Hoffman, his now bereaved wife. There were no children by either marriage. One brother of the deceased was wounded and died at Franklin, Tenn., in the civil war. The surviving members of his parents family are one sister, Mrs. Henry Bricker, and one brother, Charles Bare, both of Hicksville.
     John Bare was not an indolent man. He was a hard toiler, determined not to bear "the bread of idleness." He met with some reverses in things financial but he never lost his spirit of determination - his pluck. More than a third of a century ago he united with the Methodist church. When the first Methodist church was built in our town he gave very largely, for a man of his means, and he supported the church to the very last. More than a year ago it was found that he was afficted with that dread disease, cancer. He hoped at one time that he was cured of the malady but the trouble appeared again and he failed steadily till death released him Wednesday afternoon, September 16, 1908, his age being 64 years and 5 days. He found time during the latter weeks of life when he was no longer able to work, to review his life, to think over and judge the past and to think more about the world to come. That he was not safisfied with what the past had been was evident from his avowal to his pastor that henceforth his life should be more Christlike and consistent. He was eager to have the prayers of others on his behalf and was free to converse on the things that pertained to the soul's welfare. He gave expression to regrets for past neglects, but also gave evidence of pardon through Christ. The funeral was held in the family residence on Main street Friday afternoon, September 18, Pastor Helms having charge. The deceased was a member of the Defiance Commandery which had charge of his burial."¹

     Cordelia Bricker was also known as Adelia Bricker.⁴

     Cordelia Bricker was born on 7 December 1844 in Nobel County, Indiana.^2,5,6 She was the daughter of Conrad Bricker and Susanna Hahn.⁴ In the census of 25 October 1850 in Swan Township, Noble County, Indiana, Cordelia appears in the household of Conrad Bricker as Cordelia Bricker. She is six years old and was born in Ohio.⁷ In the census of 17 June 1860 in Swan Township, Noble County, Indiana, Cordelia appears in the household of Conrad Bricker as Adelia Bricker. She is 15 years old and was born in Indiana. Her occupation is given as sewing.⁸

     Cordelia Bricker married John Bare, son of Martin Bair and Susanna Gilbert, on 11 December 1864.^2,9,10 In the census of 3 June 1870 in Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana, Cordelia appears in the household of John Bare as Cordelia Bricker. She is 25 years old and was born in Indiana.¹¹ In the census of 21 June 1880 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, she is listed as the wife of John Bare. Her name appears as Cordelia Bare. She is 35 years old, keeping house, and was born in Indiana. Her father's birth location is given as Ohio an her mother's as Maryland.¹² In the census of 11 June 1900 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, she is listed as the wife of John Bare. Her name appears as Cordela Bare. She is 55 years old and was born in Indiana, December 1844. Her father is shown as being born in Ohio and her mother in Pennsylvania. She has been married for 35 years and is the mother of three children; two that are still living.¹³

      Cordelia Bricker died on 22 February 1902 at Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, and.² She was survived by her husband, one sister and four brothers.² She is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in Salem Township, Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.²

     OBITUARY: "Miss Cordelia Bricker was born in Noble County, Ind., Dec. 7th, 1844. She departed this life in Hicksville Feb. 22, 1902, aged 57 years, 2 months and 15 days. On Dec. 11, 1864, she married to John Bare. After residing in Fort Wayne, Ind., about 8 years, she, with her husband, came to northwestern Ohio, settling finally in Hicksville, where she has since resided.
     When but a little girl she gave her heart to God and united with the M. E. church. Her life has been one of trial and suffering, but she has bravely borne them all with christian fortitude. She died in the faith and assurance that Christ was her saviour. She has been a good and devoted wife, a kind neighbor and an affectionate sister. Through nine years of affliction she has been a very patient sufferer. Out of a family of 11 children one sister and four brothers survive her, who, with the bereaved husband, have the sympathy of a host of friends.
     The funeral services took place at the M. E. church on Monday afternoon, conducted by her pastor, Rev. F. W. Stanton. Interment in Forest Home."²

     Mary Hoffman married John Bare, son of Martin Bair and Susanna Gilbert, in April 1903.¹

     Martin V. B. Bare was also known as Martin V. B. Bair.³

     Martin V. B. Bare was born in 1840.¹ He was the son of Martin Bair and Susanna Gilbert.^2,1 In 1855, Martin V. B. Bare moved with his parents to Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.¹ During the Civil War, Martin V. B. Bare signed up with the Company B, 115 Infantry Regiment of Ohio on 15 August 1862 at Columbiana County, Ohio. He enlisted as a private at the age of 22.² He was captured on 5 December 1864 at Lavergne, Tennessee, He was held at Andersonville Prison.This was the most infamous Confederate prison camp of the Civil War, Andersonville housed an estimated 45,000 Union soldiers during the war.

     Martin V. B. Bare died on 27 April 1865 in Franklin, Williamson County, Tennessee, after the Steamer "Sultana" explosed in the Mississippi. Some 1,700 returning Union soldiers died.

     The Sultana was a typical side-wheeler built at Cincinnati in 1863 for the lower Mississippi cotton trade. She was registered at 1,719 tons and carried a crew of 85, and for two years she had been on a regular run between New Orleans and St. Louis. From War Department records it is known that she frequently carried Army personnel up and down the river. The Sultana left New Orleans on April 21, 1865, on what looked like a regular run. She had from 75 to 100 cabin passengers, and a cargo which included a hundred hogsheads of sugar and a hundred head of assorted livestock. By law, she could carry 376 persons including her crew. She was commanded by Captain J.C. Mason of St. Louis, who had a reputation as a good, careful riverman. On the evening of April 24, the Sultana made her regular stop at Vicksburg to take on passengers and cargo. After she had tied up, an engineer made a disturbing discovery; the boilers were leaking rather badly. It was determined to lay up briefly, draw fires, and repair boilers and machinery before going up river to the scheduled stops at Memphis, Cairo, Evansville, Louisville and Cincinnati. The repair gang got to work and the job was done more quickly than had been anticipated. Meanwhile, the Sultana was taking on passengers, a regular stampede of passengers due to the large number of repatriated Union prisoners of war heading North. The men were so desperately eager to start that the authorities decided not to make out the muster rolls in advance, as usual. Instead the rolls would be made out onboard, after the vessel had left Vicksburg.

     Boarding the vessel for the voyage home seemed to put new life into the ex-prisoners. Weak as most of them were, they were shouting, singing, and jesting as they came aboard, as lighthearted a crowd as ever came up a gangplank.They came in almost unmanageable numbers, far beyond the Sultana's rated capacity. Army reports do not give the exact number, but apparently it was somewhere between 1,800 and 2,000. In addition, two companies of soldiers under arms came aboard. Altogether, there were probably some 2,300 persons on the steamer when the lines were cast off.Naturally, the boat was almost unbelievably crowded. The soldiers were marching onto the hurricane deck, until all available space was filled. They packed the steamer from top to bottom hull, cabins, Texas deck, even the Pilothouse. Almost literally, the steamer could not have carried another human being. For 48 hours, after casting off the Vicksburg Wharf, the Sultana went on without trouble, making a few scheduled stops and on the evening of April 26, 1865, docking at Memphis.

Here some of the passengers disembarked. The hogsheads of sugar were unloaded and some of the stronger ex-prisoners helped in the work, to earn a bit of pocket money. A number of the soldiers went ashore to see the sights and some of these, not knowing how lucky they were, saw so many sights that they did not get back by sailing time.While the Sultana was at Memphis, a leaky boiler gave more trouble. Again the repair gang was called in and the leak was repaired. It was close to midnight when the packet let go her mooring lines and crossed the river to take on coal. After this was loaded the Sultana went on up the river, bound for Cairo. Most of the servicemen aboard were to disembark there.The current was strong and the Sultana was overloaded... fearfully overloaded, with six times as many passengers as she had been designed to carry. The big paddle wheels thrashed the water, straining against the powerful current. One of the ship's officers later recalled that as they left Memphis he remarked "I'd give all the interest I have in this steamer if we were safely landed at Cairo!" By two in the morning, she was just a few miles north of Memphis. She was making progress, but progress was slow; the current was powerful, the boilers were tired, the load was much greater than usual. The Sultana swung 'round a bend and began to labor her way past a cluster of islands known as the "Hen and Chickens."

Then it happened. The leaky boilers gave up. They really gave up! They quit holding the heavy pressure of steam and suddenly exploded with a tremendous crash that was heard all the way back to Memphis. The explosion sent an orange-colored flame boiling up into the black sky. A sudden stabbing pillar of fire that lit up the black, swirling river and was visible for miles. Back at Memphis, the watch on U.S.S. Grosbeak, a river gunboat saw the light and heard the noise. The skipper was called, and he had them cast off the mooring lines and the Grosbeak went pounding up the river. Other steamers on the Memphis waterfront did likewise, hurrying against the strong current to give any help they could give.

It was a loosing race. The Sultana had been half blown apart by the terrific force of the explosion. Hundreds of sleeping soldiers were blown bodily into the river... snugly asleep one. The water was icy-cold, many of them could not swim, and there was little wreckage to cling to. Men died by the hundreds in the water near the wreck. They had been half-starved for months and were in no physical shape to swim even if they had known how.
All of which tells little enough. What is known is that the Sultana, fearfully overloaded, was struggling against an abnormally strong current with defective boilers exploded, the wrecked ship then took fire, and most of the men aboard were killed.

Queerly enough, this overwhelming catastrophe got only a moderate amount of newspaper attention at the time. The nation's mind was fixed on the closing scenes of the Civil War. Lee had surrendered. General Joseph E. Johnston was surrendering on the day before the disaster.The country had a new President (Lincoln had been dead 11 days when this happened) and was beginning to sorry about the problem of rebuilding the sadly shattered Union. The Army naturally, was not anxious to publicize the accident, and anyway, the country's most influential papers were published in the East, and the Sultana's victims were all from the Middle West, far away and across the mountains. There was an official inquiry, productive of a mass of documents to which nobody in particular paid very much attention... and there, the affair ended... one of the worst marine disasters in history, but one which has a hard time finding its way into the history books. One can hardly help wondering what the handfull of shore-going soldiers who missed their boat at Memphis thought about it afterward.^1,2

     Charles Bare was also known as Charles Bair.

     Charles Bare was born in January 1838 in Ohio.^1,2 He was the son of Martin Bair and Susanna Gilbert. In the 1840 census in Bazetta Township, Trumbull County, Ohio, Charles Bare is assumed to be enumerated with Martin Bair.³ In the census of 3 August 1850 in Bazetta Township, Trumbull County, Ohio, Charles appears in the household of Martin Bair as Charles Bear. He is 13 years old and was born in Ohio.⁴ In 1855, Charles Bare moved with his parents to Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.¹

     Charles Bare married Nancy in 1857.⁵ In the census of 30 July 1870 in Hicksville Township, Defiance County, Ohio, Charles Bare, shown as Charles Bare, is listed as the head of household which included the following household members; Nancy, William Bare, Ina M. Bare, Alva Bare and Edith Bare. He is 31 years old, farming, and was born in Ohio.⁶ In the census of 22 June 1900 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, Charles Bare, shown as John Bare, appears as a head of household, which include his wife, Nancy, his son, William Bare. He is 62 years old and was born in Ohio, January 1838. His parents were born in Virginia. He is a farmer.²

     Charles Bare died after 1908.¹

     Mary Elizabeth Landis was born on 15 November 1862 in Defiance County, Ohio.¹ She was the daughter of Absalom Landis and Emily Frances Hughes.¹

     Mary Elizabeth Landis died in 1863 in Defiance County, Ohio.¹ She is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.¹

     Frank Landis was born in November 1862 in Defiance County, Ohio.⁴ He was the son of Absalom Landis and Emily Frances Hughes.^3,2 In the census of 4 August 1870 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, Frank appears in the household of Emily Landis as Frank Landis. He is six years old and was born in Ohio.⁵ ; young man. In the census of 18 June 1900 in Hicksville Township, Defiance County, Ohio, Frank Landis, shown as Frank Landis, appears as a head of household, which includes, his mother, Emily Landis. He is 37 years old and was in Ohio, November 1862. His parents were also born in Ohio. His trade is shown as photographs and he owns his own farm.⁶ In the census of 26 April 1910 in Hicksville Township, Defiance County, Ohio, Frank Landis, shown as Frank Landis, appears as a head of household which include, his mother, Emily Landis . He is shown as 46 years old and being born in Ohio, as were his parents. He is a farmer.⁷ Frank Landis was living at Florida at the death of his sister, Ella Bricker on 16 April 1926.⁸

     Frank Landis died in 1945.¹ He is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in Salem Township, Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.¹

     Emma Warner was born in September 1869 in Indiana.^2,5 She was the daughter of William Warner.⁴ In the census of 3 June 1880 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, she is listed as the daughter of an unknown person . Her name appears as Emma K. Warner. She is 11 years old, is going to school, and was born in Ohio, as were her parents.⁶

     Emma Warner married David L. Landis, son of Absalom Landis and Emily Frances Hughes, in 1882.^7,4 In the census of 11 June 1900 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, she is listed as the wife of David L. Landis. Her name appears as Emma Landis. She is 36 years old and was born in Indiana, September 1863. She has been married for 18 years and is the mother of two children, both living. Her father was born in Indiana and her mother in Ohio.⁸ In the census of 18 April 1910 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, she is listed as the wife of David Landis. Her name appears as Emma Landis. She is 46 years old, has been married for 28 years, and is the mother of two children; both still living. She was born in Indiana and her parents were born in the United States.⁹

     Emma Warner died in 1954.⁵ She is buried an unknown place .⁵

     Dena M. Landis was born in December 1888 in Ohio.^1,2 She was the daughter of David L. Landis and Emma Warner.¹ In the census of 11 June 1900 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, she is listed as the daughter of David L. Landis. Her name appears as Dena M. Landis. She is 11 years old and was born in Ohio, December 1888. Her father was also born in Ohio and her mother in Indiana.³ In the census of 18 April 1910 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, she is listed as the daughter of David Landis. Her name appears as Gina Landis. She is 21 years old and was born in Ohio.⁴

     Dena M. Landis died in 1954.² She is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in Salem Township, Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio. She is buried next to her parents.²

     Ella Landis was also known as Emma Landis.¹

     Ella Landis was born on 1 December 1856.² She was the daughter of John Landis and Sarah Gorden. In the census of 26 June 1880 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, she is listed as the daughter of John Landis. Her name appears as Emma Landis. She is 14 years old and was born in Ohio, as were her parents.¹

     Ella Landis died on 6 June 1938 at age 81.² She is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in Salem Township, Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.²

     Frances Alma Carr was born on 21 April 1883 in Defiance County, Ohio.^3,2

     Frances Alma Carr married Roy L. Bricker, son of William Henry Bricker and Ella Landis, on 22 October 1903.⁴ In the census of 27 April 1910 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio, she is listed as the wife of Roy L. Bricker. Her name appears as Frances Alma Bricker. She is 27 years old and has been married for six years. She was born in Ohio as were her parents. She is the mother of one child, living.⁵ In the census of 15 January 1920 in Fort Morgan, Morgan County, Colorado, she is listed as the wife of Roy L. Bricker. Her name appears as Frances A. Bricker. She is 36 years old and was born in Ohio, as were her parents.⁶ In the census of 9 April 1930 in Clinton, Fulton County, Ohio, she is listed as the wife of Roy L. Bricker. Her name appears as Frances A. Bricker. She is 46 years old and was first married at the age of 30 in Ohio. Her parents were also born in Ohio.⁷ ; Roy and Frances' 50th Anniversary with their children and their spouses.

     She wrote very small and kept a diary. There is a newspaper article from Colorado written about her when she was 100 years old. She talks about her diary and it includes a photo of her.⁸

     Frances Alma Carr died on 19 January 1988 in Denver, Denver County, Colorado, at age 104.^9,2

     OBITUARY: Frances A. Bricker: Graveside services will be held today (Wednesday, May 4, 1988) for Frances A. Bricker, 105, who died January 19, 1988, while a resident of Cliff Care Center, DENVER, CO. Mrs. Bricker was born April 21, 1883 in Defiance County. She had the privilege of celebrating her 100th birthday in 1983 and remained in good health until the brief illness prior to her death. She was preceded in death her husband and a son in 1972. She and her husband were in retirement in Florida from their Ohio farm at the time. She then went to Denver where her son Dr. John W. Bricker is a physician. Surviving are one daughter, Mrs. Margaret E. Kinney, Kenton OH; one son, Dr. John W. Bricker, Denver, CO; nine grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, and eight great, great, grandchildren. Following cremation, graveside services will be held today, Wednesday, May 4 at 11 a.m. in the Forest Home Cemetery with Dr. Robert Ingram, pastor of Grace United Methodist Church, officiating. Brown Funeral Home was in charge of the local arrangements. Memorials are to the donor's choice.²

     Robert H. Bricker was born in 1920 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.² He was the son of Roy L. Bricker and Frances Alma Carr.

     Robert H. Bricker died in 1921 in Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.² He is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery located in Salem Township, Hicksville, Defiance County, Ohio.¹ ; Roy and Frances' 50th Anniversary with their children and their spouses.