My Genealogy Hound

HARRISON W. GETZ. It affords pleasure to the biographical writer to perpetuate the memory of those who have gained the esteem of their fellow-citizens by the honorable manner in which they have borne their part in the labors of life; and to record the success which has attended industry, energy and prudence. Among the citizens of Clark County many are found to deserve a memorial record, and among them is numbered the gentleman above-named, who resides on section 20, Moorefield Township. He owns and operates a farm which, although not so large as many in the township, is under excellent cultivation, and affords an adequate support to the owner and those who comprise his home circle. It includes sixty acres of productive land, bears good improvements, and has an appearance indicative of the character and ability of the owner.

The paternal ancestors of our subject were German, and for many years the home of the family was in Pennsylvania. In Little York County, of that State, Daniel and Catherine (Williams) Getz made their home until early in the ‘50s, when they came to Clark County, Ohio. They settled on a farm in German Township, where Mr. Getz is classed among the representative farmers. He has now passed his threescore years and ten, but still manifests an interest in the progress of humanity, and assists as he can in worthy objects. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is regarded as one whose life is in keeping with his profession. He is the father of a large family, of whom the survivors are: Harrison W.; Mrs. Mary Grogg; Emiline, wife of Nathan Grist, of German Township; Ellen, wife of G. H. Thomas, of Hardin County; Samuel, Mrs. Jennie Peters, and Clara, in German Township, Clark County.

The natal day of our subject was January 11, 1841, and his birthplace Little York County, Pa. He was about eleven years old when his parents removed to this State, and he grew to manhood on a farm, assisting his father in pioneer and farm labors. He received his education in the common schools of German Township, his advantages being inferior to those afforded the youth of the present day, but being sufficient to lay the foundation for practical knowledge, which he has largely acquired by his own efforts. He was not yet of age when the Civil War broke out, but before the struggle ceased he had entered the Union Army, determined to do what he could in defense of the flag. He was mustered into Company F, Eighth Ohio Cavalry, in February, 1864, serving in West Virginia. On several occasions he was surprised and captured by the rebels, and at one time was re-captured by the Union troops before he had been taken to prison. In January, 1865, at Beverly, he fell into the hands of the rebels and was sent to Libby Prison, where he spent some four weeks, during which time he experienced some of the hardships of prison life. In due time he was exchanged, and continued his service in the Union cause until July, when he was honorably discharged and returned to his home.

The first wife of Mr. Getz bore the maiden name of Adeline Gove. His second wife was Mrs. Rachael Jenkins, who bore him two children — Oscar and Mary. His third wife was Miss Ida Replogel, who bore him one son — Floyd. Mr. Getz is a thorough Republican, never failing to cast his vote in the interest of what his judgment decides is the proper policy in government affairs. He is receiving a pension of $10 per month, on account of partial disability incurred by the rigors of campaign life. He is a public-spirited citizen, although not an office-holder or seeker.