Allen County, Indiana Genealogy

Hagan, Molly

Born August 3, 1961, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the daughter of Mary Elizabeth (née Henslee) and John Robert Hagan. She moved to Fort Wayne when she was 4 after her father, a commercial illustrator, accepted a job as art director for Eckrich. She attended Wayne then South Side High Schools, and attended Northwestern University. Was on television shows like “Murder, She Wrote,” “The Golden Girls,” “Diagnosis Murder,” “Columbo” and “Grey’s Anatomy” working with stars like Angela Lansbury, Dick Van Dyke, Peter Falk, William Shatner and Betty White. Read more  In good company ‘Sully’ actress honed her talent here by Michele DeVinney published November 25th, 2016 in Fort Wayne Magazine. She co-starred in films Code of Silence (1985), Some Kind of Wonderful (1987), The Dentist (1996) and Election (1999), and also known for her roles in television on Herman's Head (1991–1994) and Unfabulous (2004–2007). From Molly Hagan on Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. The article Catching Up with Trek's First Vorta, Molly Hagan published April 7, 2017 on startrek.com.

Haley, Bill

Bill Haley on Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, and His Comets, was an American rock and roll band that was founded in 1952 and continued until Haley's death in 1981. Many sources claim Haley played in 1946 with the Down Homers a country western band based in Fort Wayne. This is disputed on The Bill Haley Vogue Myth that claims Kenny Roberst the lead singer surprised everyone in 1999 when he stated Bill Haley was Not on the Vogue session according to The Association of Vogue Picture Record Collectors. This was mentioned in the PBS WFWA program "Buck Lake Ranch: Nashville of the North" opened in 1947. Mentioned January 10, 2023 on True Fort Wayne Indiana History on Facebook.

Hall, Dede

Passed away on June 25, 2012, her June 28, 2012 obituary at Legacy.com. Hall was married to Sam Hall, son of Don Hall, who founded the chain of local restaurants bearing his own name. They include Don Hall's Gas House Restaurant and Don Hall's drive-in restaurant. Former Fort Wayne councilwoman Dede Hall dies at 62 by Christian Scheckler published June 26, 2012 and slightly different version published June 27, 2012 on The News-Sentinel newspaper.

Hall, Donald

1915-1972, successful family meat market on South Calhoun Street led to 1946 restaurant in Quimby Village, added drive-in with carhops, then expanded into a dozen restaurants during the 1960s-70s. Discussed July 29, 2015 on You know you've lived in Fort Wayne too long when... Private Facebook group. 1946 Don Hall’s Drive-In opened at 1502 Bluffton Road, the downtown Gas House Restaurant opened in 1955, now 11 Fort Wayne-area restaurants and one in Indianapolis from Hall's legacy endures Family, restaurants have prospered for 70 years by Steve Warden published June 12, 2016 in The Journal Gazette newspaper. Don Hall is Fort Wayne’s Biggest Name in Dining posted on January 24, 2012 by Amy L. on Visit Fort Wayne blog.

Hall, Sam

Son of Don Hall, died April 8, 2017, co-owned the Hall's restaurant chain with his brothers Don "Bud" Hall II and Jeff Hall. Sam Hall of Hall's Restaurants remembered for humbleness, listening skills published April 9, 2017 in The News-Sentinel newspaperand discussed April 9, 2017 on Facebook. Photo of Halls brothers posted April 11, 2017 by The Wood Shack Architectural Antiques on Facebook. Bidding farewell to a member of 'old Fort Wayne' published April 15, 2017 on The Journal Gazette newspaper.

Hall, Thomas

A farmer was murdered in his Huntertown home by an intruder published in August 3, 1896 Fort Wayne News newspaper posted August 2, 2017 on the original Great Memories and History of Fort Wayne, Indiana page on Facebook.

Halloway, Grace

February 10, 2024 post by Fort Wayne Business Journal on Facebook:

From Tears To Tiers: How Grayce Holloway Turns Her Grief Into a Succesful Bakery & Business, Icing For Izaac

Grayce says if you’re starting a business, “I would tell them to believe in themselves even though I know it’s so hard. Believe in yourself and build a circle of people that believe in you so when you don’t believe in yourself, they don’t let you quit. When I first started, I had some people in my life saying this would never work, 90% of restaurants fail, and this is a waste of money, which could have really distracted me from everything I have today. So eliminate those people from your life and surround yourself with people that support you, love you, and believe in you.”

@icingforizaac

@rootsoflifephotosfortwayne

Learn Grayce’s Full story Online:

From Tears To Tiers: How Grayce Holloway Turns Her Grief Into a Succesful Bakery & Business, Icing For Izaac

Hamilton Family

September 14, 2015 post by The History Center on Facebook:

You may be familiar with the statues of the Hamilton sisters in Headwaters Park but did you know the History Center is home to a collection of artwork by the Hamilton Family? Here are three pieces by Jessie Hamilton. Two are new to the collection as of this year and one has called the History Center home for many years. Enjoy!

Print Room Talks: The Hamilton Family by the Fort Wayne Museum of Art Premiered Nov 17, 2021 on YouTube
Almost two thirds of the FWMoA permanent collection are prints and other works on paper. The processes and techniques of printmaking are vast and can be highly technical, making this medium both fascinating and mystifying for many. During Print Room talks we will examine examples of printmaking techniques up-close and learn about artists from the permanent collection, who chose to work with these different printmaking processes.
Print Room Talks are led by Curator of Prints and Drawings Sachi Yanari-Rizzo.
The processes and techniques of printmaking are vast and can be highly technical, making this medium both fascinating and mystifying for many. During Print Room Talks, we examine examples of printmaking techniques up-close and learn about artists from the permanent collection and their processes.
We explore the artistic side of Fort Wayne’s illustrious Hamilton family, including the prints and drawings by Norah (sister to Alice and Edith Hamilton), cousins Jessie and Agnes, and the museum’s great benefactor, James Hamilton.

Schlesinger Library on the History of Women in America image MC278-791-4
Four Hamilton sisters: Edith, Alice, Margaret and Norah, ca. 1890-1895. on flickr.

Hamilton, Alice

January 12, 2016 post by The History Center on Facebook:

The name Alice Hamilton is widely known due to her involvement with movements such as the Jane Addams Hull House. However, Alice is just one of many highly accomplished Hamilton women. Fort Wayne owes much to this artistic, activist family. Learn more in 200@200 - Iconic Fort Wayne: The Extraordinary Hamilton Women [1910s Margaret Hamilton Print]

Exploring The Dangerous Trades The Autobiography by Alice Hamilton Publication date 1943 on Archive.org

One of the Hamilton Sisters. Alice Hamilton - February 27, 1869 – September 22, 1970, second child of Montgomery Hamilton (1843–1909) and Gertrude (née Pond) Hamilton (1840–1917), was born on February 27, 1869, in Manhattan, New York City, New York. She spent a sheltered childhood among an extended family in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where her grandfather, Allen Hamilton, an Irish immigrant, had settled in 1823. He married Emerine Holman, the daughter of Indiana Supreme Court Justice Jesse Lynch Holman, in 1828 and became a successful Fort Wayne businessman and a land speculator. Much of the city of Fort Wayne was built on land that he once owned. Alice grew up on the Hamilton family's large estate that encompassed a three-block area of downtown Fort Wayne. The Hamilton family also spent many summers at Mackinac Island, Michigan. For the most part, the second and third generations of the extended Hamilton family, which included Alice's family, as well as her uncles, aunts, and cousins, lived on inherited wealth. Copied from Alice Hamilton on Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia.

1. She spent a privileged childhood in Fort Wayne in the 1870's and eventually enrolled at the University of Michigan in 1892 after studying anatomy at Fort Wayne College of Medicine the prior year. Hamilton went on to become a leader in the fields on industrial toxicology and occupational health. An activist for women's rights and peace, Hamilton became an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School in 1919 and later served as president of the National Consumers League from 1944-1949. She died in 1970 at the age of 101. Copied from FORT WAYNE FIVE: Important medical figures published with photo April 9, 2018 in The News-Sentinel newspaper.
2. Alice Hamilton, M.D, Crusader Against Death on the Job by Catherine E. Forrest Weber includes photos on pages 28-39 of Traces of Indiana and Midwestern History, Fall 1995, Volume 7, Number 4 by the Indiana Historical Society. Alice Hamilton appears in 6 results at Traces of Indiana and Midwestern History by the Indiana Historical Society.
3. Alice Hamilton has 16 items at Archive.org.
4. Alice Hamilton: a long, productive life remembered in an American Chemical Society National Historic Chemical Landmarks.
5. Dr. Alice Hamilton: Harvard’s First Woman Professor published March 24, 2014 by JD Thomas on Accessible Archives blog.
6. Alice Hamilton Activist, Chemist, Activist, Doctor, Scientist, Educator, Scientist (1869–1970) on biography.com.
7. Celebrating the life of Alice Hamilton, founding mother of occupational medicine by Dr. Howard Markel on pbs.org.Hamilton, Edith

Hamilton, Edith

One of the Hamilton Sisters. Edith Hamilton was born August 12, 1867, Dresden, Saxony [now in Germany]—died May 31, 1963, Washington, D.C., U.S. The eldest child of American parents Gertrude Pond (1840–1917) and Montgomery Hamilton (1843–1909). Shortly after her birth, the Hamilton family returned to the United States and made their home in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where Edith's grandfather, Allen Hamilton, had settled in the early 1820s. Edith spent her youth among her extended family in Fort Wayne.

August 12, 2023 post by Ray E. Boomhower on Facebook:

Happy birthday to Fort Wayne's own Edith Hamilton, born on this day in 1867. She earned fame as "the greatest woman Classicist" with her books, including "The Greek Way," which Robert Kennedy turned to for comfort after the death of his brother John Kennedy. "I came to the Greeks early," Hamilton told an interviewer when she was 91, "and I found answers in them. Greece's great men let all their acts turn on the immortality of the soul. We don't really act as if we believed in the soul's immortality and that's why we are where we are today."

 

The same photo was posted as an August 12, 2022 Happy Birthday Tweet by Ray Boomhower on Twitter and August 12, 2022 post on Facebook:

She earned fame as "the greatest woman Classicist" with her books, including "The Greek Way," which Robert Kennedy turned to for comfort after the death of his brother John Kennedy. "I came to the Greeks early," Hamilton told an interviewer when she was 91, "and I found answers in them. Greece's great men let all their acts turn on the immortality of the soul. We don't really act as if we believed in the soul's immortality and that's why we are where we are today."

1. Edith's grandfather, Allen Hamilton, was an Irish immigrant who came to Indiana in 1823 by way of Canada and settled in Fort Wayne. In 1828 he married Emerine Holman, the daughter of Indiana Supreme Court Justice Jesse Lynch Holman. Allen Hamilton became a successful Fort Wayne businessman and a land speculator. Much of the city of Fort Wayne was built on land he once owned. The Hamilton family's large estate on a three-block area of downtown Fort Wayne included three homes. The family also built a home at Mackinac Island, Michigan, where they spent many of their summers. For the most part, the second and third generations of the extended Hamilton family, which included Edith's family, as well as her uncles, aunts, and cousins, lived on inherited wealth. Copied from Childhood and eduction at Edith Hamilton on Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia.
2. A Citizen of Athens Fort Wayne's Edith Hamilton by Catherine E. Forrest Weber with photos on pages 38-47 of Traces of Indiana and Midwestern History, Winter 2002, Volume 14, Number 1 by the Indiana Historical Society. Edith appears in 5 searches of Traces.

3. August 12, 2023 post by Ray E. Boomhower on Facebook:

   “It has always seemed strange to me that in our endless discussions about education so little stress is laid on the pleasure of becoming an educated person, the enormous interest it adds to life. To be able to be caught up into the world of thought—that is to be educated."

   Edith Hamilton

   [Saturday Evening Post, September 27, 1958]”

4. Edith Hamilton: A Mythical Hoosier by the Staff of the Indiana Magazine of History posted May 7, 2012 at indiana publicmedia.com.
5. Edith Hamilton has 41 items at Archive.org
6. Edith Hamilton biography at YourDictionary.com.
7. Edith Hamilton books listed at Biblio.com.

8. September 22, 2023 post by Princeton University Press on Facebook:

   In American Classicist, Victoria Houseman tells the fascinating life story of Edith Hamilton (1867–1963), whose ideas were shaped by—and aspired to shape—her times. Preorder yours today!

   Available in North America on October 3 (UK/Europe 28 November pub).

   American Classicist: The Life and Loves of Edith Hamilton

9. September 28, 2023 post by Princeton University Press on Facebook:

   Out October 3, American Classicist by Victoria Houseman is a biography of Edith Hamilton, the remarkable woman whose bestselling #Mythology has introduced millions of readers to the classical world.

   Edith Hamilton (1867–1963) didn’t publish her first book until she was sixty-two. But over the next three decades, this former headmistress would become the twentieth century’s most famous interpreter of the classical world. Today, Hamilton’s Mythology (1942) remains the standard version of ancient tales and sells tens of thousands of copies a year. During the Cold War, her influence even extended to politics, as she argued that postwar America could learn from the fate of Athens after its victory in the Persian Wars. In American Classicist, Victoria Houseman tells the fascinating life story of a remarkable classicist whose ideas were shaped by—and aspired to shape—her times.

   Preorder your copy today! (UK/Europe 28 November pub).

   American Classicist: The Life and Loves of Edith Hamilton

10. October 1, 2023 post by Mitch Harper on Facebook:

    Fort Wayne's Edith Hamilton (1867-1963), the "most important interpreter of the classical world for 20th-century Americans," is the subject of a new biography by VIctoria Houseman. The book, "American Classicist" is reviewed by Meghan Cox Gurdon in this weekend's Wall Street Journal.

    #wallstreetjournal #edithhamilton #victoriahouseman #meghancoxgurdon

11. Looking forward to returning to Fort Wayne in June, 2024 to speak about Edith Hamilton! @fwhistorycenterhttps://t.co/K3NwD74t9o

    — Victoria Houseman (@VictoriaHousem1) October 1, 2023

    From Fort Wayne to Munich: The Education of Edith Hamilton

    Date(s) - Jun 2, 2024 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

    Location The History Center

    Presented by Victoria Houseman

    We will see how aspects of Edith Hamilton’s writing were influenced by her education, which began at home in Fort Wayne. This was followed by her experiences at Miss Porter’s School and four more years of study at home before she was able to enter Bryn Mawr College in 1891. Her classics professors at Bryn Mawr, Paul Shorey and Gonzalez Lodge, both left a discernible influence upon her writing, as did her year of graduate study in Germany, where she ultimately became the first woman officially admitted to the University of Munich. This presentation will use Edith Hamilton’s letters to question some of the assumptions which have appeared in previous writings about Edith Hamilton.

    Book signing to follow lecture.

12. The Edith Hamilton Way A new biography provides a glimpse into the life of the celebrated classicist. Mary Norris, October 12, 2023 review in The New Yorkermagazine.

13. Fun Fact Friday: Edith Hamilton!

    Did you know a famous classicist was from Fort Wayne? Now you do! #FunFactFriday #Classicist #FortWayne #PBSFortWayne

    Posted by PBS Fort Wayne on Friday, March 29, 2024

    Friday, March 29, 2024 post by PBS Fort Wayne on Facebook:

    Did you know a famous classicist was from Fort Wayne? Now you do!

    #FunFactFriday #Classicist #FortWayne #PBSFortWayne

Hamilton Sisters

Edith, Alice, and Agnes Hamilton shown in These are the Hamilton Women of Fort Wayne statues at Headwaters Park -
IMG_7739 by Blackavar Lion on flickr.

In 2000 the city of Fort Wayne, Indiana, erected statues of two Hamilton sisters, Edith and Alice, along with their cousin, Agnes, in the city's Headwaters Park. These are the Hamilton Women of Fort Wayne memorial in Headwaters Park is found at The Historical Marker Datatbase HMdb.org. Edith (seated), scholar of Greek and Roman mythology, wrote the classic text, The Greek Way. Alice, Edith's sister (standing) is Dr. Alice Hamilton who made history by being the first woman on the faculty of Harvard Medical School, influential industrial physician, advanced the reform of unsafe working conditions in our nation's factories. Agnes (with young child), their cousin, accomplished painter and child advocate, worked in settlement houses and founded Fort Wayne's YWCA. The Hamilton women have made lasting contributions to the well being of citizens on both local and national levels. Fort Wayne is proud of them.

1. Agnes Hamilton of Fort Wayne: The Education of a Christian Settlement Worker by Mina J. Carson in 1984 Indiana Magazine of History, Volume 80, Issue 1, pp 1-34.
2. Hamilton Society of Sisters October 19, 2007 News-Sentinel article Hamilton sisters immortalized in bronze and society of young women.
3. The Extraordinary Hamilton Family by Tom Castaldi published May 16, 2013 on the History Center Notes & Queries blog.
4. Megan's Mystery Monday - Jessie Hamilton Print by Emily Royer published September 28, 2015 on History Center Notes & Queries blog.
5. 1883 photo of The Three A's Agnes Hamilton, Allen Williams and Alice Hamilton posted March 1, 2017 onthe original Great Memories and History of Fort Wayne, Indiana page on Facebook.
6. One of three small photographs at the History Center Digital Collection on the mDON mastodon Digital Object Networkwas shown in Historical Highlight: Mrs. Hamilton's Carriage House by Suzanne Slick published July 25, 2018 in Articulate by the Fort Wayne Museum of Art.
7. The other Hamilton sister Three authors mine local sources to detail Alice's contributions to public health the new book The Education of Alice Hamilton: From Fort Wayne to Harvard reviewed by Jo Young Switzer retired president of Manchester University published January 5, 2020 in The Journal Gazette newspaper.
8. Sculptures tell more of Hamilton ladies' story by Martha Barnhart published January 15, 2020 in The Journal Gazette newspaper

Hamilton, Garry A.

February 27, 2019 post by the Fort Wayne Police Departmenton Facebook:

We finish our salute to black officers during Black History Month with Chief Garry Hamilton. He was the first black officer to be promoted to the rank of Chief of Police.Chief Hamilton began his career with the Fort Wayne Police Department when he was commissioned on August 26, 1994. During his career he served as a patrolman and a detective. He spent most of his time as a detective in the cold case unit. He was promoted to Sergeant in March 2006 and served in the Internal Affairs Division until his promotion to Captain. As Captain he served in the Southeast Division and as liaison to the Allen County Prosecutor's Office. He was promoted to Deputy Chief in December 2010. As Deputy Chief he served in both the Northeast and Southeast Divisions. He was promoted to Chief in January 2014 and served as Chief until 2016. During his tenure as Chief he rejuvenated the Community Relations Division to promote transparency with the community and reach out to all citizens of Fort Wayne. He stepped down as Chief in August 2016 and was re-appointed to Deputy Chief of the Northeast Division/Community Relations Division. As of March 2017 Deputy Chief Hamilton has served in the Investigative Division but still remains active in community affairs.

Photos of his retirement party were posted June 6, 2019 by the Fort Wayne Police Department on Facebook.

The first black chief in the Fort Wayne Police Department’s 152-year history. See Chief works to build trust in city's police Says Ferguson changed perceptions by Jeff Wiehe published January 3, 2016 in The Journal Gazette newspaper and now on the Internet Archive Wayback Machine.

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Hand Farm

150-year-old Hand farm receives Hoosier Sesquicentennial Award by Vivian Sade published September 22, 2015 in Churubusco News now on the Internet Archive Wayback Machine.

HUNTERTOWN — The Hand family was recently recognized by the Indiana State Department of Agriculture and other state officials for their northwest Allen County farm, which has been owned and operated by the family for 150 years.

Carroll and Shirley Hand stand next to a carved tree stump in their yard. When the tree was partially destroyed by storms, Carroll and Shirley decided preserve the stump.

 

The Hathaway Road farm, currently owned by Carroll and Shirley Hand, was established in 1853 by James Vandolah, the grandson of matriarch Phebe Hand, an early settler in Eel River Township.

Carroll and Shirley Hand are the sixth generation to take over the farm. Carroll just celebrated his 80th birthday.

Last month, Lt. Gov. Sue Ellspermann and Ted McKinney, director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, presented the Sesquicentennial Award in recognition of the Hand family’s longtime commitment to agriculture. The awards are presented to farms owned by the same family for at least 150 consecutive years. The farms must consist of more than 20 acres or produce more than $1,000 of agricultural products per year.

In Carroll and Shirley Hand’s dining room, the walls are adorned with photos and awards showcasing the family’s rich agricultural roots.

Carroll and Shirley Hand (right center) hold their state certification, surrounded by their children and grandchildren, after receiving the Hoosier Homestead Sesquicentennial Award at the Indiana State Fair in August. The award was presented by Lt. Gov. Sue Ellspermann, far right, and Ted McKinney, director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, in back, next to the flag. Also on hand for the ceremony was Dennis Kruse, R-Auburn, third from right.

The couple lives in a new home built on the site of the original 1900 farmhouse which was torn down after sitting vacant for years and being deemed unsafe. The outbuildings are the original homestead outbuildings, but the original basement barn was destroyed by fire in 1949.

The farm, down a long lane and bordered by woods to the south, used to be considered very remote.

But development is rampant in northwest Allen County and the Hands are not immune.

“Notice right there where you can see through the woods? It was never like that before,” Carroll said, pointing at a clearing in the midst of the trees. “That’s Carroll Creek housing addition and they are in the second phase, getting ready to build more homes.”

“That woods used to be very thick,” he said.” My grandfather Jesse Hand used to grade Hand Road with a plow and team of horses and Fort Wayne was eight miles away.”

Fort Wayne’s border is now less than a mile away.

Not far down the road is the fairly new Carroll Middle School and just beyond that is the site of the proposed wastewater treatment plant for the town of Huntertown. If the town gets final approval from the state, the discharge will be pumped down Hathaway Road, past Hand’s farm, and into the Eel River off of Johnson Road. The Hands are part of the more than 50 people who have appealed the proposal.

“This place doesn’t look anything like it used to. We used to be pretty far from everything,” Carroll said. “Before the school was built, this was a gravel road,” he said of Hathaway.

Hathaway Road is now so heavily traveled that a traffic light was installed at the S.R. 3 intersection.

Despite the development, off the road and in the midst of Hand’s wooded property, time seems to have stood still.

In the yard, near the front door to the home is an old tree trunk that has been carved with the image of wildlife — owls and a squirrel — and an Indian. A story that has been passed down for decades in the Hand family is that one day Carroll’s great-great grandfather, George Washington Hand, was up late one night and was startled to look out the window and see an Indian resting against the tree.

His grandfather went outside and offered the Native American a drink of water, which he accepted. He spoke a little English — enough that Carroll’s great-great-grandfather knew that he was following the Eel River to join up with his tribe.

The tree was struck by lightening years ago and Carroll had secured it with a cable so that it would not fall on the house. But another severe storm destroyed most of the tree, and the Hands knew it had to come down.

They decided to save as much of the trunk as they could and hired a local artist to carve the image of an Indian and wildlife into the trunk.

Carroll is one of eight children and although he no longer farms his own property — it is farmed by Gregg Nelson — he often works on his brother-in-law’s 2,000-acre farm in Wells County. Another brother farms in Huntington County.

Answering the question Carroll hears most often, he said, “Yes, Hand Road is named after our family. But no, I am not named after Carroll Road.”

The Hands plan to place the new Hoosier Homestead Sesquicentennial Award in a place of honor next to the Centennial Award they received 50 years ago.

The Hoosier Homestead Award program was established in 1976 by the Indiana State Department of Agriculture to honor the state’s rich agricultural heritage. Throughout the history of the award, more than 5,000 farms have received the honor.

The awards were presented on Aug. 15 at the Indiana Farm Bureau building during the Indiana State Fair. Lt. Gov. Sue Ellspermann and Ted McKinney, director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, presented the awards to 67 families including, in Allen County, a Sesquicentennial Award to the Hand family, a Centennial Award to the Ott farm and a Sesquicentennial Award to the Mooney-Grodrian farm.

Ellspermann, who is also the Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, said the Hands and other award winners are part of Indiana’s prolific farming heritage. [Hoosier Families Honored at the Indiana State Fair Three families received award for 200+ consecutive years of ownership].

“For nearly 40 years, the Hoosier Homestead program has provided a wonderful opportunity for our state to recognize the rich heritage of farming in Indiana and how Hoosier family farms have been passed down from generation to generation,” Ellspermann said in a statement.

“It’s even more fitting that we are celebrating the Year of the Farmer at the Indiana State Fair as a way to honor and thank Hoosier farmers for being an integral part of our states legacy and future,” she said.

Shirley Hand agreed. “It was really nice that we received the award during the Year of the Farmer at the Indiana State Fair,” she said.

Carroll and Shirley have three sons, Greg, Bryan (Julie) and Darwin (Kelly) and one daughter, Susan (Mike) Stockel, and six grandchildren. In his spare time, Carroll enjoys competing in tractor pulls.

Although none of their children farm the land, the Hands are hopeful that the family will retain ownership of the farm and pick up another Hoosier Homestead recognition — this time a Bicentennial Award — in 50 years.

Hanna, Ruth (Budd, Carpenter)

March 10, 2023 post by Genealogy Center on Facebook:

March is Women’s History Month! Each Friday this month, we are featuring stories to highlight the contributions and work of Fort Wayne women over the years! Today, we are featuring Ruth Hanna, a Fort Wayne singer and aerialist!

Ruth Budd was born Ruth Carpenter in 1895 to Wallace and Eva in Sandwich, Illinois. Ruth also had a younger brother, Giles. The family moved to Cleveland, Ohio and along the way, they changed their name from Carpenter to Budd, which they used as a stage name. Ruth and her brother, Giles were part of the family’s vaudeville act, which they called the “Aerial Budds”. She and her brother had a double trapeze act, singing and performing stunts while on the trapeze.

“The family then moved from Ohio to Aurora, IL. They family traveled around and the sibling duo performed in places like the Hammerstein Theater and the Hippodrome in New York. They performed overseas in Europe and aboard the ill-fated Lusitania”.

In 1909, Ruth met Ray Hanna. He worked as an electrician at the Paramount Theatre in Fort Wayne. The two began a long-distance relationship.

In 1914, Ruth’s brother Giles was injured when he missed Ruth’s hands and broke his hip. He could no longer perform so Ruth continued solo, swapping out the trapeze for a “rings” act. In 1919, Ruth made her film debut - she starred in the 1919 silent film “A Scream in the Night”. “She wore a monkey costume and swung on the trapeze. She broke three bones, dislocated her collarbone and a shoulder, and sprained her knee”. That was her last film.

18 years after beginning a long-distance relationship with Ray Hanna, Ruth retired from performing and settled in Fort Wayne with him. She ran grocery stores and cigar stands in the city.

Ruth Hanna died December 11, 1968 at Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne at the age of 73. She is buried in Greenlawn Memorial Park in Fort Wayne with her husband.

(1968, December 12). Ruth Hanna, Ex-Aerialist Dies at 73. Journal Gazette, p. 13.

(1992, March 4). Founding Mothers. Journal Gazette.American Association of University Women, Fort Wayne Branch. (1988). Memorable fort wayne women: A women's history project of american association of university women, Fort Wayne, Indiana branch.

Ancestry.com. U.S., Passport Applications, 1795-1925.

Hanna, Samuel

Born in Kentucky in 1797, he grew up around Dayton, Ohio and came to Fort Wayne in 1819.

June 13, 2022 post with photos by The History Center  on Facebook:

By the middle of the 19th century, many of Fort Wayne’s founding generation had passed away. On June 13, 1866, Hanna’s funeral was held in Fort Wayne in the Hanna Homestead. The funeral was one of the largest ever seen in the region and was estimated by the Fort Wayne Daily Gazette to be attended by 4,000 people. Following the funeral, 1,200 people proceeded from the home to the family burial plot at Lindenwood Cemetery. The report in the newspaper the following day ended with these words: “May his memory ever be cherished fresh and fragrant, as the leaves of June, beneath which we lay him down to rest.”

1. Samuel Hanna was one of the first associate judges, the other associate judge was Benjamin Cushman. They were both elected and served at the same time. Hanna served only briefly, from 1824 to 1827, while Cushman served from 1824 to 1833. Neither was a lawyer. Copied from History is in session Courthouse,occupants getbook treatment published May 12, 2019 in The Journal Gazette newspaper.
2. He brought the Wabash and Erie Canal, railroads and more to Fort Wayne. Residence of Judge Samuel Hanna Lewis Street 1876 published in Illustrated historical atlas of the State of Indiana on Dave Rumsey Map Collection.
3. Samuel Hanna: The Founder of Fort Wayne posted July 25, 2013 by Tom Castaldi on History Center Notes & Queries blog.
4. The Life and Character of Hon. Samuel Hannaby G. W. Wood published January 1, 1869, 51 pages, Google ebook.

Photos of Hanna Homestead now Hanna Homestead Park located at the intersection of Gay Street and Lewis Street were posted August 9, 2017 on You are positively from Fort Wayne, if you remember... Archived group only visible to existing members on Facebookand The Hanna homestead by Kevin Leininger published September 19, 1982 in Cityscapes archives of The News-Sentinel newspaper. Hanna Homestead Park website states it is located at the intersection of Gay Street and Lewis Street. In 1962 the old Hanna Homestead house was torn down. The home, on what was originally a 10-acre tract, was built in 1839 by Samuel Hanna. Before the Homestead was torn down it was used as the home for crippled children. Efforts were unsuccessful to preserve the home as a historic landmark. The property was donated to the Fort Wayne Community Schools by Eliza Hanna Hayden, in memory of her father, Samuel Hanna. The Fort Wayne Community Schools gave Hanna Homestead to the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department by Quit Claim deed on January 10, 1966. The property was then developed into a park. See article about the Hanna Family portrait Off the Cuff: Fort Wayne's Past in a Portrait by K Thompson published August 13, 2018 on Articulate From the Fort Wayne Museum of Art blog. The life and character of Hon. Samuel Hanna Google 51 page ebook. HANNA FAMILY COLLECTION, CA. 1880-1920S, Collection # P 0789 BV 5461-5462 at the Indiana Historical Society.

History Center: 200@200 video by WANE 15 News January 2, 2016 on YouTube shows a portable writing desk owned by Samuel Hanna.

Hansen, James

Auburn University, is fielding interview requests from around the world, following last weekend’s death of an American hero. As author of the only authorized biography of Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon, Hansen has been asked to share anecdotes with audiences in Australia, China, Chile and Turkey. The Fort Wayne native also was interviewed Tuesday evening at his sister’s local home by a crew from the Discovery Channel, which is putting together an hourlong special on Armstrong that could air as early as tonight. From Historian, city native earned Armstrong’s trust to pen bio August 30, 2012 Sherry Slater | The Journal Gazette. See James Hansen page on Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Movie based on the book Ryan Gosling to Portray Neil Armstrong in Universal Biopic 'First Man' by Robert Z. Pearlman published December 30, 2016 on Space.com. Simon & Schuster page.

Happy the Hobo

Happy's Place - local television clown on channel 55 WFFT had 4 different "hobos" - Happy the Hobo on Facebook. Former channel 55 WFFT television show, from 1981 to 1997 was a live program, so no recordings of Happy's Place were saved by WFFT, however there are some episodes on You Tube. See Mike Fry.

Happiest People

News-Sentinel file photo
Look magazine declared Fort Wayne
"America's Happiest Town" in 1949

Fort Wayne has been labeled the Happiest People several times over the years. In 1910, a short book with lots of photos Fort Wayne with might and main : Indiana's busiest, happiest city (1910) compiled and published by Ralph E. Avery now on Archive.org. Griswold-Phelps labeled Fort Wayne Indiana's Happiest City in their 1914 Handbook and Guide to Fort Wayne. And August 30, 1949 Look magazine called Fort Wayne America's Happiest Town.

Hardin, Colonel John

Site of Hardin's Defeat
Indiana Historical Bureau photo

See Hardin's Defeat.

A colonel with the Kentucky militia Marker gone, bridge going up at site of battle Militia colonel’s dubious role in local history has been forgotten by Kevin Leininger published August 17, 2013 in The News-Sentinel newspaper. The marker used to say: Colonel John Hardin, of the Kentucky Militia, with 180 men and Captain John Armstrong, U.S. Army, with 30 men, were routed here on October 19, 1790, by Indians under Miami Chief Little Turtle during General Harmar's Campaign.

October 19, 2017 post by The Bones of Kekionga on Facebook:

Spoiler alert if you haven’t read the book yet, but today is the 227th anniversary of Hardin’s Defeat. Here’s a photo of where it happened, just south of Churubusco on Carroll Road along the Eel River.

October 18, 2022 post by The Bones of Kekionga on Facebook:

Wednesday, October 19, is the 232nd anniversary of Hardin's Defeat also known as the Battle at Eel River. American Survivors that retreated back to General Harmar's camp would have found him at an Indian village called Chillicothe. This location would have been south of the Catholic Cemetery on Lake Avenue on both sides of the Maumee River west of Coliseum Blvd., possibly where the retention ponds are now located. [current Lakeside Neighborhood. ]

Saturday is the 232nd anniversary of The Battle of Kekionga, also known as Harmar's's Defeat that took place in the Lakeside neighborhood stretching from the Maumee River to the St. Joseph River north of the Tennessee Ave. bridge today, and spilling into the St. Joe River.

Read about the engagements in The Bones of Kekionga. www.jimpickettbooks.com

October 19, 2023 post by Miami Nation of Indians of Indiana on Facebook:

On this date in 1790, Chief Little Turtle surprises and defeats Col John Hardin on the banks of the Eel River (13 miles northwest of present day Fort Wayne, Indiana) south of present day Churubusco Indiana. Hardin was leading a scouting detachment after an army under Josiah Harmer arrived October 15th at the large Miami city of Kekionga (other various nations of Native American's lived there as well), where present day Fort Wayne Indiana is located. Harmar discovered it deserted so Hardin was sent to scout the area and find the Miami. Hardin's force would consist of over 200 men versus Little Turtle's approximately 100 warriors. Little Turtle would utilize strategy and stealth to inflict heavy casualties on Hardin's force (about 62 dead and 12 wounded), before Hardin withdrew back to the main camp.

The Site of Hardin's Defeat Reviewed in 2010. Location: This marker was damaged and removed. It will not be replaced due to text inaccuracies by the Indiana Historical Bureauon IN.gov. Erected by Indiana Sesquicentennial Commission, 1966 . Site of Hardin’s Defeat marker on THE HISTORICAL MARKER DATABASE HMdb.org. See General Harmar and The Battle of Kekionga.

Hardy, James W. III

December 24, 1985- June 7, 2017, 31-years old. Two sport athlete at Elmhurst High School and Indiana University. Indiana Mr. Basketball runnerup. Three season NFL football player with the Buffalo Bills. Body found June 7, 2017 in the Maumee River. Remember the good – James Hardy leaves lasting impact Former Elmhurst, IU standout more than just an athlete by Pete DiPrimio published June 8, 2017 in The News-Sentinel newspaper. ‘Sports Illustrated’ article examines life and death of James Hardy posted November 14, 2018 on WKJG NBC. How Did We Let James Hardy Slip Through the Cracks? When the holder of every Indiana receiving record—the 41st pick in the 2008 NFL draft—turned up dead in a Fort Wayne river, friends and family faced some tough questions. By Brian Burnsed published November 14, 2018 on SportsIlustrated.com. James Hardy (American football) Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. James Hardy, III on Find A Grave

Hardy, Vicki

Photo for Cooking Magic bags in April 1972 Woman's Day magazine photo and discussion posted April 24, 2017 on You are positively from Fort Wayne, if you remember... Archived group only visible to existing members on Facebook. James Hardy’s last words to mom: ‘If I don’t go, I’m going to die tonight’ by Angelica Robinson published June 12, 2017 on CBS WANE-TV NewsChannel 15. Hardy's family, friends give last goodbyes Life, 'beautiful smile' celebrated at services by Austin Candor published June 18, 2017 in The Journal Gazette newspaper. Hardy's death a suicide, coroner rules published July 19, 2017 in The Journal Gazette newspaper.

Hargan, Steve Lowell

Born September 8, 1942 in Fort Wayne, son of Lowell and Florence Hargan, excelled in basketball and football at South Side High School, professional baseball player signed with Cleveland Indiana in 1961. See Wikipedia. Discussed May 21, 2017 on You are positively from Fort Wayne, if you remember... Archived group only visible to existing members on Facebook.

Hargrave, Eugene Franklin Bubbles

Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia shows Eugene Franklin "Bubbles" Hargrave (July 15, 1892 – February 23, 1969) was an American catcher in Major League Baseball who played for the Chicago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds, and New York Yankees. He won the National League batting title in 1926 while playing for Cincinnati. Bubbles' younger brother, Pinky Hargrave, was also a major league catcher.

Harmar, General Josiah

Page 98 of The pictorial history of Fort Wayne, Indiana : a review of two centuries of occupation of the region about the head of the Maumee River by Griswold, B. J. (Bert Joseph), 1873-1927; Taylor, Samuel R., Mrs Publication date 1917 on Archive.org

1. 
   clipping image
   See Harmar's Defeat section.
2. 1916, April 25 - Monuments in Memory of Heroes of Former Years- Belated Honor to Johnny Appleseed - Monument to His Memory to Be Unveiled in Swinney Park, May 5. To Erect Monument at Harmar's Ford - Homer Gordon Davissson is Given Commission by the D.A.R.'s. Clipped from The Fort Wayne Sentinel25 Apr 1916, Tuesday, page 1. Clipped by StanFollisFW on 19 Feb 2022.
3. Remembered with Harmar Street in the East Central neighborhood after his Harmar's Defeat. NEED TO TRANSCRIBE THE NEWSPAPER ARTICLE.
4. Discussed in Learn About the Dead Guys Our Streets Are Named After, Part 1: Harmar Street by Jennifer Balliet Milholland on History Center Notes & Queries blog.
5. General Josiah Harmar's Campaign Reconsidered: How the Americans Lost the Battle of Kekionga by Michael S. Warner, Indiana Magazine of History, Vol. 83, No. 1 (March 1987), pp. 43-64 (22 pages), Published By: Indiana University Press at jstor.org.
6. General Josiah Harmar's Campaign Reconsidered: How the Americans Lost the Battle of Kekionga, Published: Mar 1, 1987, in Volume 83, Issue 1, March 1987 , by Michael S. Warner at Indiana Magazine of History journal in the archives at Indiana University Scholarworks.
7. Little Turtle's famed battle humbled U.S. forces by Michael Hawfield in Cityscapes from the archives of The News-Sentinel newspaper.
8. See Harmar Campaign and Josiah Harmar on Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia.
9. Famous pioneer Daniel Boone's younger brother Edward Boone had a son Joseph Boone. Joseph Boone marched into battle October 22, 1790 at the Maumee Indian Village, present day Fort Wayne. He was shot and left for dead. Read his story at Harmar's Defeat in Saving Private Boone Joseph Boone at "Harmar's Defeat" by Jeffery L. Johnsonon on the Wayback Machine.
10. Josiah Harmar papers (1681-1937) Collection processed and finding aid created by Shannon Wait, April 2011 Manuscripts Division, William L. Clements Library, University of Michigan.

General Harmar's campaign by Public Library of Fort Wayne and Allen County, 1954, on Archive.org.

Harmeyer, Ron

68, of Leo, Indiana. passed away on Friday, Sept. 28, 2012. Born September 18, 1944 in Fort Wayne, Indiana he was the son of the late Harvey and Bernice Rodermund Harmeyer. December 21, 1968 in Mansfield, Ohio he was married to the former Kathleen M. Ball. He was Chief Photographer at WANE TV in Fort Wayne where he worked for 48 years. Surviving are his wife, Kathy Harmeyer of Leo; two children, Joel Matthew (Andrea) Harmeyer of Fort Wayne; and Jenna (Adam) Shepard of Kansas City, Mo. Remembering Ron Harmeyer by Mark Mellinger published October 1, 2012 CBS WANE-TV NewsChannel 15 blog. See his September 30, 2012 obituary at Legacy.com. See his Memorial at Find A Grave.

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Harper, Edward

March 17, 2019 post by Mitch Harper on Facebook:

Happy Saint Patrick's Day.

My great-grandfather, Edward (shown here), was born the son of Irish native William Harper.

William emigrated from County Tyrone, Ireland in 1831 and settled in Jefferson Township, Allen County, Indiana in 1836.

William was born in Ireland on March 10, 1810. His son, Edward, was born March 26. 1856. Edward's older brothers served in the Union Army during the Civil War. 

 

See Harper's on page 643 of the book The pictorial history of Fort Wayne, Indiana : a review of two centuries of occupation of the region about the head of the Maumee River by Griswold, B. J. (Bert Joseph), 1873-1927; Taylor, Samuel R., Mrs on Archive.org.

 

 

 

Harrison, William Henry

William Henry Harrison, protector of Fort Wayne by Potterf, Rex M. on Archive.org.

See May 13, 1800 Timeline. "Harrison was the last president who was born a British subject but he grew up an American who fought the British in the War of 1812." Discover the Remarkable Story of William Henry Harrison From a February 25, 2025 post by National Society United States Daughters of 1812 on Facebook.

May 13, 2018 post by Indiana Historical Bureau on Facebook:

On May 13, 1800, President John Adams appointed William Henry Harrison as governor of the Indiana Territory, which at that time included parts or wholes of the future states of Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Minnesota. Harrison served in this role for twelve years, during which he sought local recommendations for appointees, encouraged the development of representative government in the new territory, and sought to extinguish American Indian claims and remove them from the territory. Harrison, a Virginia-born patrician, tried unsuccessfully to introduce slavery into the territory, despite the Northwest Ordinance’s prohibition against it. In 1811, he led a military force against Tenkswatawa near Prophet’s Town. Tactically, the battle is often viewed as a draw, but the outcome had significant geopolitical ramifications which affected the strength of the pan-Indian alliance, influenced the forthcoming War of 1812, and many years later led to Harrison’s ascension to the presidency with the memorable campaign slogan, “Tippecanoe and Tyler Too.”

Learn more about William Henry Harrison here: Indiana Territorial Governor William Henry Harrison (1773 - 1841) 

February 21, 2023 post by Indiana Historical Bureau on Facebook:

#OTD in 1841, William Henry Harrison, former Governor of the Indiana Territory, and his family visited a Washington D.C. studio to sit for this silhouette portrait, created by the famous French artist August Edouart. President-elect Harrison had arrived in the capital just over a week earlier to deliver his inaugural address to Congress in which he promised lawmakers not to impede their progress with his own agenda. He stated: “Indeed, I hold all the above principles subject to the will of the majority and shall conclude this partial development of my plan of government with the assurance that whatever measure a majority of your community may propose will receive my sanction, as I do not allow my oath to support the Constitution to lay me under any foolish scruples in opposition to the Legislative will.” [Punctuation edited for clarity]. Harrison was the only president elected from the Whig Party and he promised to be a popular one, having won almost four times as many electoral votes as his opponent Martin Van Buren, as well as the popular vote in nineteen (out of twenty-six) states. President Harrison took office March 4, 1841 but served for only thirty-two days before his death from pneumonia. However, this was not the end of the Harrisons’ presidential ambitions. Also pictured in the portrait here, second from left, was William Henry Harrison’s seven-year-old grandson, Benjamin Harrison, who would become the 23rd President of the United States in 1889. Learn more about William Henry Harrison through the University of Virginia’s Miller Center: https://millercenter.org/president/harrison.

Original Cut Silhouettes of William Henry Harrison and Family, February 20, 1841, courtesy of the Indiana Historical Society via Indiana Memory.

"Hero of Tippecanoe" : or, The story of the life of William Henry Harrison by Giffing, James P, Publication date 1840, on Archive.org

1. He was elected President of the United States in 1840. During the campaign, James P. Giffing published Hero of Tippecanoe; or the Story Life of William Henry Harrison the Archive.orgfrom the Lincoln Collection.
2. INDIANA TERRITORIAL GOVERNOR WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON (1773 - 1841) at IN.gov
3. He died April 4, 1841 after serving only 31 days, historically claimed due to pneumonia. Funeral service was held April 7, 1841 in the East Room of the White House. He was the first Congressional delegate from the U.S. Northwest Territory, governor of the Indiana Territory, and a decorated brigadier general in the War of 1812.
4. Science Rewrites the Death of America’s Shortest-Serving President William Henry Harrison may have died of typhoid fever by Colin Schultz published April 1, 2014
5. What Really Killed William Henry Harrison? by Jane McHugh and Philip A. MacKowiak published March 31, 2014 in The New York Times. Was one of only five Presidents to have a beard, and all were Republicans. Indiana claims two Hoosier presidents – William Henry Harrison and his grandson, Benjamin Harrison.
6. Indiana and the White House by William Kelly published by the White House Historical Association.
7. William Henry Harrison biography at whitehouse.gov posted April 4, 2018 on Indiana Historical Bureau on Facebook.

President Benjamin Harrison and our country's flag on page 76 of Pamphlets Volume 8 by the Public Library of Fort Wayne and Allen County, Publication date 1954, on Archive.org

Harter, Randolph L.

Collector of local vintage postcards and history reference materials for over 35 years.

Fort Wayne Rotary Presents Randy Harter Fort Wayne - Then & Now, February 14, 2021, Fort Wayne Rotary on YouTube

1. In 2013, Randy Harter, Fort Wayne historian and authorwrote a book Postcard History Series: Fort Wayne by Arcadia Publishing which includes over 225 postcard images and their accompanying history discussed in this article Postcard History Series: Fort Wayne by Amber published November 8, 2013 on Fort Wayne Insider official blog of Visit Fort Wayne. His growing Harter Postcard Collection is at the Allen County Public Library Digital Collections at the Allen County Public Library
2. Legendary Locals of Fort Wayne by Randolph L. Harter, Craig S. Leonard - 2015. Available at Amazon.com, Arcadian Publishing, Museum Shop at The History Center, and Visit Fort Wayne Store at Visit Fort Wayne.
3. Since 2016 he wrote 55 articles for Fort Wayne Reader before it ceased publishing the end of 2018.
4. He coauthored a book Fort Wayne Through Time released in the fall of 2018 by Randolph L. Harter and Daniel A. Baker published by Arcadia Publishing available at Visit Fort Wayne. It is discussed in Then and now, side by side Pair goes to great heights for updates of historic photos with photos by Rod King published January 6, 2019 in The Journal Gazette newspaper, Then and now, side by side by Rod King for The Journal Gazette published January 7, 2019 on apnews.com, and Fort Wayne companies call historic buildings home by Dan Vance published January 16, 2019 on kpcmedia.com.
5. He has a newspaper clippings collection on Newspapers.com.
6. This Overlooked Midwest City Is Full of Hidden Treasures by William O'Conner is a 15-minute read in the It's Still A Big World series published December 23, 2022 on the DailyBeast with a tour by Randy Harter and Visit Fort Wayne.

Hartman, Ruth "Rocky" Kramer

An original member of the Fort Wayne Daisy baseball tean in All-American Girls Professional Baseball League in the 1940s and a champion sheep breeder, died November 9, 2015 in Reading, Pennsylvania. She was 89. She was a member of the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y. Local story Former Fort Wayne Daisy dies at 89 by Associated Press published November 11, 2015 in The Journal Gazette newspaper. Longer story with photo Remembering Ruth Hartman: 'In a League of Her Own' publshed November 11, 2015 and updated story Ruth Hartman dies after weekend accident publshed November 12, 2015 both by Dan Kelly in the Reading Eagle newspaper

Hatch, Austin

Born October 18, 1994, survived two plane crashes, son of the late Dr. Stephen killed June 24, 2011 in Charlevoix, Michigan just two weeks after Austin, a 6-6 wing man at Fort Wayne (Ind.) Canterbury High School, had verbally committed to play basketball at Michigan, and late Julie (Siwik) Hatch who with children Lindsay Katherine and Ian Michael were killed in a 2003 plane crash. Austin Hatch keeps faith after plane crashes by David Leon Moore published November 21, 2013 in USA Today Sports. Austin Hatch Michigan Basketball page. Two-time plane crash survivor Austin Hatch scores first point for Michigan by Justin L. Abrotsky published December 23, 2014 on USA Today. See Austin Hatch surrounded by support Michigan basketball recruit who survived two fatal plane crashes makes progress by Elizabeth Merrill published October 10, 2011 on ESPN.com, Stephen James and Kimberly Dawn Hatch Legacy.com obituary Kimberly Dawn Hatch, January 23, 1967 - June 24, 2011, D.O. McComb and Sons obituary. See ESPN video SC Featured - Miraculous: The Austin Hatch Story published February 7, 2015. Hatch, Austin - in June 2011, just 10 days after verbally committing to play for the Michigan Wolverines basketball team, his father and stepmother were killed in a crash in Charlevoix, Michigan, that left him in a coma for roughly eight weeks with a traumatic brain injury. A former Canterbury High School basketball player, he survived two plane crashes. He moved from Fort Wayne to Los Angeles, California to live with an uncle and be near his grandparents. His mother, Julie, and siblings, Lindsay and Ian, were killed in a 2003 air plane crash in which he and his father survived. Austin survived a second plane crash that killed his father, Stephen, and stepmother, Kim, and nearly took his life in June 2011. Austin Hatch reveals strong character in news conference He talks about his long road back from plane-crash tragedy by Reggie Hayes published November 21, 2013 on The News-Sentinel newspaper. November 21, 2013 3:00 a.m. Hoops bring hope after tragedies by Greg Beacham of the Associated Press published November 21, 2013 in The Journal Gazette newspaper. Several videos on Austin Hatch breaks his silence by Greg Beacham, AP Sports Writer on CBS WANE-TV NewsChannel 15. Austin's first basket attempt in three years for his California high school team is a three pointer. When his team celebrates they recieve a technical foul. See Austin Hatch caps HS comeback January 9, 2014 on ABC News. Austin Hatch discusses father, faith, and future two part video by waneglennmarini published May 24, 2016 by CBS WANE-TV NewsChannel 15.

March 24, 2018 post by CBS Sports on Facebook:

He’s a motivator. He’s an inspiration. He’s a Michigan Man.

You may have heard of Michigan Basketball's Austin Hatch, who survived two plane crashes. For Austin, his incredible story of perseverance is only just beginning.

September 21, 2023 post by WANE 15 on Facebook:

Motivational speaker Austin Hatch shared his story with high school students this morning.

Hatfield - McCoy Feud

Connection in nearby Columbia City, Whitley County, Indiana. Hazel Thompson of Columbia City has a photo showing Devil Anse Hatfield with Thompson’s father, Isom Daniels and grandmother Allie Hatfield Norden in the newspaper article Offspring won’t shy from infamous feud by Frank Gray of the Journal Gazett June 17, 2012.

Haudenschild, Mark A. II

Washington Township volunteer firefighter killed November 2012 in a fire truck crash. His line-of-duty death was the first in the Washington Township Fire Department's 67-year history. The last Fort Wayne-area firefighter killed in the line of duty was Harry Stapleton with the Wayne Township Fire Department in 1975. On Sunday night, Haudenschild was driving a tanker truck south on Hillegas Road on his way to a brush fire in the 4300 block of Butler Road. He tried to make a right turn to go west on Butler, but the truck rolled several times, hitting utility poles. The truck came to rest on its side, just off Hillegas, about 100 yards south of the intersection. Haudenschild, a 26-year-old husband and father of two young children, was ejected and pinned under the wreckage. He died at the scene. The crash remains under investigation. A Fort Wayne native, Haudenschild had been with the volunteer department for five years and held the rank of assistant chief engineer. From Services Saturday for volunteer firefighter November 14, 2012 by Archie Ingersoll The Journal Gazette newspaper. Mark A. Haudenschild II. Procession and Funeral Procession and Procession from The Chapel church to Riverview Cemetery — Mark A. Haudenschild II. Procession (44 photos) on D.O. McComb and Sons Funeral Home Facebook photo albums. See his D.O. McComb and Sons Funeral Home obituary and Legacy.com obituary. November 18, 2012 3:00 a.m. The third and final bell 1,000 people pay their respects to fallen volunteer firefighter by Jaclyn Youhana of The Journal Gazette newspaper.

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Hawfield, Michael

Local historian wrote 23 articles for the 1994 Fort Wayne Bicentennial published in the I Remember History online tour of Summit City history from the archives of The News-Sentinel newspaper.

1. Time ran out on canal era
2. Theatrical variety part of history
3. City hospital was once a hotel
4. Bass home built on industries
5. Early Methodists answered city's educational prayers
6. Trolley whisked thrill- seekers to park
7. Hullabaloo in past elections
8. Old train stations sadly reflect Fort Wayne's past
9. Ewings played hardball in business, with Indians
10. The Randall: Best $2 hotel in the state
11. Little-known women influenced city
12. South Wayne area was once a city unto itself. See our South Wayne section.
13. Lakeside Park rose gardens live up to originator's promise
14. Suburban living was a new concept
15. New Year different a century ago
16. City was home for many inventions
17. Barr Street Market full of history
18. Church's programs ever-expanding
19. Edsall House endured many changes
20. Coveted portage anchored early Fort Wayne
21. Fort was a tribute to area's history
22. World War II camp had impact on city
23. Little Turtle's famed battle humbled U.S. forces

Hayes, Larry

Larry Hayes – a retired Journal Gazette editorial page editor whose work earned him a spot in the Indiana Journalism Hall of Fame – died Saturday night. Hayes spent more than two decades as The Journal Gazette’s editorial page editor before retiring in 2000. He continued to contribute to the opinion pages for years, however, through columns and letters to the editor. Although Hayes wrote more than 5,000 editorials and columns throughout his journalism career, he apparently still had more to say – particularly on the issues of juvenile justice and mental health. Distinguished Journal Gazette retiree Larry Hayes, advocate for the underdog, dies, Ashley Sloboda February 12, 2024 and Hayes’ influence was life-altering for all he touched Bonnie Blackburn-Penhollow Feb 14, 2024 The Journal Gazette newspaper.

Larry Hayes, a member of the Indiana Journalism Hall of Fame who spent 26 years writing editorials at The Journal Gazette, died Saturday night.

Posted by The Journal Gazette on Monday, February 12, 2024

February 12, 2024 post by The Journal Gazette on Facebook:

Larry Hayes, a member of the Indiana Journalism Hall of Fame who spent 26 years writing editorials at The Journal Gazette, died Saturday night.

Distinguished Journal Gazette retiree Larry Hayes, advocate for the underdog, dies

Haynie, Gilmore Smith

Passed away August 21, 2014 see D.O. McComb and Sons obituary, local attorney was active in numerous civic efforts, attended South Side High School, wife, Susan Higgins Haynie, a daughter, Devon, and a son, Gilmore III. Saying Goodbye on a blog by his son Devon Haynie August 22, 2014. Civic leader Gil Haynie dies by Frank Gray published March 16, 2016 in The Journal Gazette newspaper. Plaque honors man devoted to downtown by Frank Gray published July 9, 2015 in The Journal Gazette newspaper.

Hays, John Jacob

August 14, 2023 post by Indiana Jewish Historical Society on Faceook:

#hoosierjewishhistory

Jewish Federation of Fort Wayne

On this day in Indiana Jewish History 1820: John Jacob Hays, the grandson of Solomon Hays, a member of the early Sephardic Jewish Community of New York, arrived today in Fort Wayne, where he began serving as an Indian agent for the Potawatomi and Miami tribes making him the first known Jew to settle in the Indiana city. Hays was known for his level-headedness, sobriety, and calmness.

Headley, Heather

Singer, songwriter, record producer, and actress. She won a Tony Award, a Grammy Award, and a Drama Desk Award. Born October 5, 1974 in Trinidad the daughter of Hannah (Barbadian) and Eric Headley. In 1989, she moved to Fort Wayne, Indiana in the United States at the age of fifteen with her mother and brother Iric when her father was offered a job as pastor of the McKee Street Church of God. She attended Northrop High School, and was a member of their show choir, Charisma, and starred as Fanny Brice in the school's production of Funny Girl. In 2003, Headley married Brian Musso, formerly of the New York Jets football team. Both attended Northwestern University. Their first child John David was born on December 1, 2009, and second son Jordan Chase August 18, 2014. Heather's brother, Iric is the director of the Fort Wayne United initiative. See Heather Headley.com. Heather Headley returns to Fort Wayne for Youtheatre fundraiser by Cindy Larson published October 22, 2014 in The News-Sentinel newspaper. Spotlight: Heather Headley, 'The Color Purple' on Broadway: The Northrop grad begins performances Tuesday night by Keiara Carr published May 9, 2016 in The Journal Gazette newspaper.

Hearn, Reggie

Snider High School basketball star with Northwestern University

Heath, Judge Dan

See Heath ready for new role March 24, 2013 The Journal Gazette newspaper.

Heck, Eryk Todd

Allen County Sheriff Officer Eryk Heck was shot and killed August 15, 1997 and another officer was shot and wounded while investigating a burglary in progress. He left his wife Deb, Taylor an 11 month old daughter, parents and seven sisters. State Road 3 between Interstate 69 north to the county line was dedicated the Eryk T. Heck Memorial Highway in his honor. See photo and memorial at Supporting Heroes web site.

August 15, 2023 post by Allen County Sheriff's Department on Facebook:

In Remembrance of Eryk T Heck, Unit 188

26 years gone but never forgotten. As we honor and remember Officer Eryk Heck today, let us recommit ourselves to the ideals he embodied. Let us not forget his memory by working together to honor his unwavering service to the well-being of our community.

We offer our deepest condolences to Officer Heck's family. They, too, have sacrificed and shared their loved one with us in the service of the greater good. May his memory continue to inspire us all.

#ACPD #sheriff #community #EOW #NeverForgotten #LineOfDuty #bluelinefamily #BlueLineStrong #lawenforcementofficer #lawenforcementfamily #lawenforcement

August 15, 2022 post by Allen County Sheriff's Department on Facebook:

#NeverForgotten

In remembrance of Officer Eryk Heck, U188

EOW: 8/15/1997

Today we honor and remember Officer Heck and the ultimate sacrifice he made for his community. May our thoughts and prayers be with his family

#ACPD #sheriff #community #CommunityPolicing #lawenforcement #lawenforcementfamily #lawenforcementofficer #BlueLineStrong #bluelinefamily #endofwatch #eow

Heffron, Charles Buckner "Chuck"

Was born April 15, 1918 in Marathon, Cortland County, New York and died March 23, 2014 in Athens, McMinn County, Tennessee. Burial in Arlington National Cemetery Arlington, Arlington County, Virginia, USA. He is found as Chas B Heffron in the World War II Prisoners of War, 1941-1945, database at FamilySearch and has a detailed obituary on his Find A Grave Memorial ID 128535032about his 3 1/2 years in a World War II Japanese prison camp and weighing only 82 pounds when he returned to the United States. He recovered and eventually worked at Magnavox in Fort Wayne, earned 14 patents in electronics. He was a life member of the American Ex-Prisoners of War, the American Defenders of Bataan and Corregidor, and the DAV. His children and grandchildren graduated from Snider High School. His wife Eva and daughter Beth are buried in Lindenwood Cemetery.

Heilbroner, Louis Wilbur

"Louis Wilbur Heilbroner, Born in Ft Wayne, Indiana (July 4, 1861 – December 21, 1933), was a professional baseball secretary and business manager who managed the St. Louis Cardinals during the 1900 season." "Heilbroner was also a pioneer in baseball statistics. In 1909, he founded Heilbroner's Baseball Bureau Service, the first commercial statistical bureau dedicated to baseball, and began publishing the Baseball Blue Book." "In the middle of the season, Patsy Tebeau resigned as the Cardinals' manager. Team president Frank Robison publicly offered the job to the third baseman John McGraw, who declined despite his boss' insistence. Robinson then gave the manager title to Heilbroner, who was serving as his secretary and had no particular baseball qualifications. By many accounts, the diminutive Heilbroner (4'9 or 1,44m) never imposed his authority. McGraw was the de facto manager of the team and was candidly acknowledged by the team owners.After managing the last 50 games in 1900, Heilbroner was replaced by Patsy Donovan at the start of 1901. During his short stint as manager, Heilbroner led the Cardinals to 23 wins, 25 losses, and 2 ties. He remained with the team as a business manager until 1908 and later served a two-year term (1912–1914) as president of the Central League." He died in Fort Wayne, Indiana, on December 21, 1933." Louie Heilbroner on Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. From an August 7, 2022 post by Indiana Jewish Historical Society on Facebook.

1. Hall of Fame Hall of Fame Annual Banquet Programs (2014) has his photo and biography in the Northeast Indiana Baseball Association Collectionin the Allen County Public Library Digital Collections at the Allen County Public Library.
2. See page 83 in the book Baseball in Fort Wayne by Chad Gramling.
3. He is buried in Lindenwood Cemetery, see Louis Heilbroneron Find A Grave.
4. There is a Baseball Bluebook on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/baseballbluebook/ which has the website: http://www.baseballbluebook.com/

Heine, Gaylord

Second wife Mayla, first wife Gertrude died in 2010, five children: Colleen Peters and Dave of New Haven, Chuck of Toledo, Ohio, Stan of Angola, and Gwyn Mannion of Syracuse, N.Y. Their Thanksgiving 2013 family garthering of 60 members was featured in Brood of 60 gathers for dinner in thanks by Vivian Sade published November 28, 2013 in The Journal Gazette newspaper.

Heins, Courtney Leigh

A singer-songwriter and Fort Wayne native won best country song of the year at the International Music and Entertainment Association Awards November 2, 2013 in Ashland, Ky. From City native Heins wins song award published November 5, 2013 on The Journal Gazette newspaper.

Heiny, John

Our "Plat of the Week" is HEINY'S FIRST ADDITION. It is in Plat Book 12 page 43 in the Office of the Recorder of Allen...

Posted by Hofer and Davis,Inc. LAND SURVEYORS on Tuesday, February 6, 2018

Tuesday, February 6, 2018 post by Hofer and Davis,Inc. LAND SURVEYORS on Facebook.

Our "Plat of the Week" is HEINY'S FIRST ADDITION. It is in Plat Book 12 page 43 in the Office of the Recorder of Allen County. It was prepared by A.K. Hofer and recorded on August 4, 1926. It is on the corner of Cass and State, 1 block East of Wells.

Heiny, Nick

Nicholas L. Heiny, May 5, 1914 – January 18, 2011, Obituary of Nicholas L. Heiny, IN THE CARE OF Klaehn, Fahl & Melton Funeral Home

Nicholas (Nick) Lawrence Heiny, 96, passed away Tuesday, January 18, 2011, after a brief illness. Nick was born May 5, 1914, in Ft. Wayne, IN, the eldest child of Stella and Lawrence E. Heiny. In his early years, he helped his father in the grocery business started by his grandfather. He graduated from South Side High School in 1932, at the peak of the Great Depression. He attended Anthony Wayne Business College, Ft. Wayne, and Gregg College Chicago, and was a Court Reporter for the 1934 Allen County Grand Jury. In 1935, he began a career with General Cable Corporation, New York, and rose to Chief Statistician. Prior to and during World War II, he managed General Cable’s wartime contracts, allocating scarce metals and vital materials to 8 manufacturing plants operating 24/7, and was the liaison to the War Production Board and other government agencies in Washington. The firm received notable achievement awards from all branches of the military. While at General Cable, Nick earned a B. S. degree in Commerce, Accounts and Finance from New York University, graduating in 1941. In 1943, at age 29, he was named to an executive Board of Directors, charged with planning for the company’s transition to a post-war economy.

Nick returned to Ft. Wayne in 1945 and took over management of the family gourmet food market with his brothers Joseph and Robert Heiny. He took pride in his business and knew most of his customers personally. With the grocery business as his second career, he settled down and married Dorothy Callahan in 1946. Nick and Dorothy raised nine children, and instilled in all the importance of education and faith. One of Nick’s greatest sources of pride was seeing all nine children earn college and post-graduate degrees.

Nick sold Heiny’s Grocery in 1981 to retire and began a third career as an energetic community volunteer. He was a certified volunteer IRS income tax preparer for AARP from 1983 to 2005; an alternate delegate to the White House Conference on Aging, an Older Hoosier Delegate to the Indiana State Assembly; a delegate to the National Silver Haired Congress at the Capitol; a member of the Mayor’s Senior Advisory Council, an active board member for Aging and In-Home Services of N.E. Indiana, the Allen County Council on Aging, the Council on Senior Services, the Allen County Genealogical society and other agencies. He received a Distinguished Alumni Award from South Side High School, was named an Allen County Older Hoosier of the Year, and was honored by the Allen County Council on Aging for his dedication to seniors of Allen County. He was a member of St. John The Baptist parish for 58 years, where he served as usher, member of the Parish Pastoral Council, and the parish finance committee. Nick loved gardening, traveling and genealogical research, and authored a number of books on his family history.

Survivors include, his wife of 64 years, Dorothy M., of Ft Wayne; children, Paul N. (Rose) Heiny, of Springboro, OH, Judith A. (Piotr) Heiny-Chomczynski, of Cincinnati, OH, Mary E. (Carl) Kowalski, of Long Beach, IN, Vincent J. (Ellen) Heiny, of Ft Wayne, Rosalie A. Jarvis, of Indianapolis, IN, Edward J. (Grace Han) Heiny, of Louisville, KY, Elizabeth A. Heiny-Cogswell, of Kalamazoo, MI, Martin J. (Debora) Heiny, of Ft. Wayne and Charles J. (Ann) Heiny, of Ft Wayne; 23 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; brother, Robert Heiny, of Ft Wayne and sister Victora Fahey, of Glenview, IL; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by siblings Joseph, Lawrence and Rosemary Heiny Bucklin, and great-grandchild Dominic Kowalski.

Mass of Christian Burial is 10:30 am Monday, January 24, 2011 at St John the Baptist Catholic Church, 4500 Fairfield Ave. with calling 1 hr prior. Visitation is 1-3 and 5-7 pm Sunday at Klaehn, Fahl and Melton, Winchester Rd Chapel, 6424 Winchester Rd. with a Vigil service at 5 pm. Burial in Catholic Cemetery. Preferred memorials to Masses at St John's or St Mary's Soup Kitchen.

www.klaehnfahlmeltonfunerals.com

See Heiny's Grocery.

Heiny, Robert

Local basketball star born in 1922 to Lawrence and Stella Loos Heiny. A World War II veteran, and a father of three, who started working in the Heiny Grocery Store bagging potatoes at age 5 years old. See his story including family photos in the video above from After 95 years, there is only one thing he would change by Brett Thomas posted November 09, 2017 on CBS WANE-TV NewsChannel 15 earned the the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award for Feature Reporting in the Small Market Television division of the Radio Television Digital News Association. See Feature on vet's 'hall of fame' life wins national award by WANE Staff Reports June 18, 2018.

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Helmke, Ann

21 years, 1991-2012, as executive director of Vincent Village serving homeless families is covered in Rest after building Village by Rosa Salter Rodriguez of The Journal Gazette newspaper January 3, 2013.

Helmke, Mark

1951 to November 1, 2014, a North Side High School graduate, brother of three time mayor Paul Helmke of Fort Wayne, son of Walter P. Helmke, worked for Senator Lugar on and off between 1981 and 2012, Ex-Lugar aide Mark Helmke dies by Brian Francisco published November 2, 2014 in The News-Sentinel newspaper.

Helmkes, Paul, Walter P., Mark, Walter E.,

See Legendary Locals of Fort Wayne, by Randolph L. Harter, Craig S. Leonard discussion August 28, 2015 on You know you've lived in Fort Wayne too long when... Private Facebook group.

Helmke, Walter

Allen County prosecutor, state senator and father of former Mayor Paul Helmke. Born in Fort Wayne on Dec. 28, 1927, he was a graduate of North Side High School, and died January 20, 2016. He was survived by children Paul (Deborah) Helmke of Fort Wayne and Bloomington, and Marsha Shirk of Oriental, N.C.; seven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and and one sister, Carolyn Helmke Stoltz. He was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Rowene, who died Dec. 24, 2015, and son Mark, a former News-Sentinel reporter and aide to Sen. Richard Lugar, who died in November. 2014. For more read Walter P. Helmke, former prosecutor and state senator, dies at 88 by News-Sentinel staff published January 21, 2016 in The News-Sentinel newspaper. See his Walter Helmke page on Helmke Bems Attorneys at Law. See also Leadership icons Schmidt, Helmke set public service example Editorial published January 23, 2016 in The Journal Gazette newspaper.

Henney, Jane Ellen

Born 1947 in Woodburn. Shown here in the Oval Office of the White House in 1998 with President Bill Clinton, Henney was the fist woman to serves as commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, as appointed by Clinton. A native of Woodburn, Henney attended Manchester University, Indiana University and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. She served with the FDA from 1992-1994 and then from 1998-2001. In 2003, she was named the University of Cincinnati's senior vice president and provost for health affairs. Copied from FORT WAYNE FIVE: Important medical figures published with photo April 9, 2018 in The News-Sentinel newspaper. Jane E. Henney, M.D. 1/17/1999 - 1/19/2001 at U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Jane E. Henney on Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia

Henry, Jerome, Sr.

Jerry Henry Sr. died November 23, 2008, age 82, ending 59 years of marriage to Marganelle. They had 17 children. He retired as director of Catholic Charities in 1991 after 22 years and served as a superintendent of the Indiana Reformatory from 1966 to 1968. Marge Henry, mother to Fort Wayne’s mayor and 16 others, dies at age 89 by Kevin Leininger published August 7, 2018 in The News-Sentinel newspaper. See obituary for his wife Marganelle R Henry (Applegate) May 31, 1929 - August 6, 2018 at Divine Mercy Funeral Home Catholic Cemetery. A Life's Work Marganelle Henry builds a legacy of making a difference. by Tammy Davis published February 1, 2015 on Business People. Valedictory: Jerome Henry, Sr. posted November 24, 2008 on Fort Wayne Observed. Jerome Francis Henry November 23, 2008 Fort Wayne Newspapers Legacy.com obituary.

Henry, Mayor Tom and Cindy

See our Mayor Tom Henry page.

 

Gregg Bender cartoons for the The Journal Gazette newspaper were posted in the March 30, 2024 21AliveNews.com article by Alexander Bullock Fort Wayne artist expresses losses of late Mayor Tom Henry and wife Cindy Henry through work and shared on Facebook Gregg Bender shares on Facebook - Cindy Henry passed away January 20, 2024 - January 23, 2024 and Mayor Henry March 28, 2024 - March 30, 2024.

Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry dies at 72 March 28, 2024

Mayor Tom Henry remembered for constant service to Fort Wayne March 28, 2024

Mayor Tom Henry: 1951 to 2024  March 28, 2024

Buddy Bench proposed for Citizens Square would recognize Fort Wayne mayor  March 8, 2024

Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry has died, his office announced Thursday evening shortly before 9 p.m. He was 72. Earlier...

Posted by The Journal Gazette on Thursday, March 28, 2024

Thursday, March 28, 2024 9:37 PM post by The Journal Gazetteon Facebook:

Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry has died, his office announced Thursday evening shortly before 9 p.m. He was 72.

Earlier Thursday, the mayor's family announced that Henry was under the care of hospice nurses after experiencing a medical emergency related to his stomach cancer diagnosis.

Deputy mayor sworn in as acting mayor following Henry's death March 29, 2024

Official Obituary of Mayor Tom Henry November 8, 1951 ~ March 28, 2024 (age 72)

Divine Mercy Funeral Home https://www.divinemercyfuneralhome.com/obituary/MayorTom-Henry

Mayor Tom Henry Obituary

The Honorable Thomas C. Henry, Mayor of Fort Wayne, Indiana, 72, passed away at Stillwater Hospice in Fort Wayne on Thursday, March 28, 2024, surrounded by his large and loving family. The “People’s Mayor,” Tom was first elected to the seat in January of 2008, an office he held for more than16 years. Tom also served on Fort Wayne’s City Council from 1983-2003.

Born on November 8, 1951 in Indianapolis, Indiana, Tom was the second child of Jerome F. and Marganelle (Applegate) Henry. He was a 1970 graduate of Central Catholic High School and received both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of St. Francis in Fort Wayne. Stationed in Africa, Tom proudly served in the United States Army and was honorably discharged in 1973. He served in the US Army Reserves until 1977.

Tom was a member of Most Precious Blood Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus, and the American Legion Post #82 – Fort Wayne.

As Mayor, Tom’s accomplishments are too numerous to fully detail. He was proud of each project that moved Fort Wayne forward. His vision shaped the skyline, the waterways and the neighborhoods that make Fort Wayne a truly livable city. Most notable are the completion of Harrison Square, the Ash Skyline Plaza, the Dr. Martin Luther King Bridge, the Veteran’s Memorial Bridge, the trail system, and of course, the Riverfront Development, which led to the creation of Promenade Park, the second phase of which is underway.

Tom was a statesman. He was best known for his diplomacy, his willingness to work across any aisle, and for his team building ­­– all of which resulted in the Fort Wayne we know and love today. Of his many achievements, his greatest reward was in the life he built with his wife, Cindy (Kocks), whom he wed on June 21, 1975. Together, they raised their son, Benjamin Jerome, and daughter, Elizabeth Anne. Theirs was an extraordinary love, and where Cindy was, Tom was never far behind. It is somehow fitting then that Cindy preceded Tom in death on January 20, 2024. A true visionary and lifelong public servant, Tom lived by the tenets of the Westpoint maxim: Risk more than others think is safe. Care more than others think is wise. Dream more than others think is practical. Expect more than others think is possible. We believe he would ask us to best honor him by living the same way. Tom was preceded in death by his cherished wife Cindy, his parents, Jerome and Marganelle, and his brother, Timothy. Surviving are his children, Benjamin J. Henry and Elizabeth A. Guevara; grandchildren, Anastasia and Nikolas Henry and Alexandria and Angelina Guevara; brothers, Jerome F. Henry, Jr. (Becky), Anthony (Susan), Erik (Courtney Tritch), Matthew (Anne), Martin (Vicki), Kurt (Teresa), Karl, Louis (Brenda), and Christopher (Carolyn); sisters, Paula (Bill) Bentley, Andrea (Ramon) Navarro, Denise (Bill) Wenzel, Sonya Witte (Dave Herport) Lisa (Mark) Canada, and Jessica (Nate) Henry-Johnson; mother-in-law, Martha M. Kocks-Hamrick; siblings-in-law, Kevin, Barry, Scott (Amy), and Mark Kocks and Angela Kocks-Schmidt; a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins; a devoted staff of both city and campaign workers (including his beloved nephew, Adam Henry) and an entire community of colleagues and citizens, in whom he believed with all his heart.

The family asks that, despite our collective broken heart, we all carry forth the work begun by Tom. He laid a foundation on which we will continue to build the City of Fort Wayne. May we all be inspired by his legacy of treating others with dignity and respect. For that is what made Tom so special.

The Mass of Christian Resurrection will be celebrated Friday, April 12, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 1105 South Calhoun Street, Fort Wayne, IN 46802 with visitation from 9:00- 10:00 a.m.in the church. Visitation is also from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 10 and Thursday, April 11, 2024 at the Allen County Courthouse. Interment in Catholic Cemetery. Arrangements through Divine Mercy Funeral Home, 3500 Lake Ave.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Fort Wayne Children’s Choir (fwcchoir.org) or by mail to 2101 E. Coliseum Blvd. Ft. Wayne, IN 46805 or Humane Fort Wayne (humanefw.org) or by mail to 4914 S. Hanna St., Fort Wayne, IN 46806.

Page 1 January 22, 2024 The Journal Gazette newspaper

Cindy Henry's family mourns her death; the mayor's wife was 67 Madelyn Kidd January 22, 2024 

Officials mourn Fort Wayne cheerleader Cindy Henry Ashley Sloboda January 22, 2024

January 21, 2024 post by The Journal Gazette on Facebook:

Cindy Henry, the wife of Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry and former owner of The Green Frog Inn, has died after living with pancreatic cancer for more than a year. She was 67.

Cindy Henry's family mourns her death; the mayor's wife was 67

January 21, 2024 post by The Journal Gazette on Facebook:

Officials speak about Cindy Henry’s life and effect on the community. "She had a heart as big as anything for the Fort Wayne community.”

Officials mourn Fort Wayne cheerleader Cindy Henry Ashley Sloboda January 22, 2024

January 23, 2024 post by Julia Meek on Facebook:

“To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die.” (Thomas Campbell, Hallowed Ground) Blessing to all whose lives Cindy has touched & embraced as her spirit guides you along your journey.

And many thanks to Gregg Bender for this loving tribute.

Posted January 23, 2024 on Facebook.

Official Obituary of Cindy S. Henry a Dignity Memorial online obituary includes half-hour photo video

June 4, 1956 ~ January 20, 2024 (age 67)

Cindy S. Henry, 67, of Fort Wayne, passed away Saturday, January 20, 2024 surrounded by her family. She was born on June 4, 1956 in Fort Wayne to Clifford O. and Martha M. (Rearick) Kocks.

Cindy was a 1974 graduate of Heritage High School and attended the International Business College.

On June 21, 1975, she married the love of her life, Thomas C. Henry, and together they raised two beautiful children, Benjamin Jerome and Elizabeth Anne.

Cindy was the beloved owner and operator of the Green Frog Inn for many years. There, she never knew a stranger and had a remarkable way of making every patron feel at home.

She was a member of Most Precious Blood Catholic Church, past member of the Embassy Theatre board, the Civic Theatre board, and the ABWA (American Business Women’s Association). Cindy was active in the Democratic Party, serving as Vice chair of the Allen County Democratic Party; the Fourth District Democrats; the Indiana Democratic State Central Committee; and the Democratic National Committee.

Additionally, throughout her life, she was tirelessly committed to numerous causes for which she cheerfully and successfully raised funds.

Cindy will forever be remembered for her joyfulness, her style, her beauty, and her warmth. She lived and loved fully and fearlessly, taking great care to treat everyone she met with dignity and respect. She had a deep faith in God and embodied grace and strength all the days of her life.

She is survived by her loving husband of 48 years, Thomas C. Henry; children, Benjamin J. Henry and Elizabeth A. Guevara; mother, Martha M. Kocks-Hamrick; grandchildren, Anastasia, Nikolas, Alexandria, and Angelina; and siblings, Kevin Kocks, Barry Kocks, Scott (Amy) Kocks, Mark Kocks, Angela Kocks-Schmidt, Jeff (Yvonne) Hamrick, and Jason (Stefani) Hamrick.

Cindy was preceded in death by her father, Clifford O. Kocks. Mass of Christian Resurrection will be Friday, January 26, 2024 at 11:00am at Most Precious Blood Catholic Church, 1515 Barthold Street, Fort Wayne, IN 46808 with visitation from 10-11am. Visitation is also from 1-3pm and 7-9pm Wednesday, January 24 and Thursday, January 25, 2024 at Divine Mercy Funeral Home, 3500 Lake Ave. Burial in Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Healthier Moms and Babies or Cancer Services.

Share fond memories and condolences at DivineMercyFuneralHome.com

January 27, 2024 post by The Journal Gazette on Facebook:

Fort Wayne pays its respects to community leader Cindy Henry, 67, who died Jan. 20 after battling pancreatic cancer for more than a year.

Cindy Henry's family remembers her during funeral service

Herman, Mark

Fort Wayne native and nationally known theatre organist played the inaugural program on the recently restored Wurlitzer-composite theatre organ in Wagenhals Hall at Trinity English Lutheran Church in 2014. Copied from Restoration project ends in debut of theatre organ by Garth Snow published June 25, 2014 on INFortWayne.com.

Hey, Byard By Dwight

Age 91, passed away Sunday, December 15, 2019. Born in 1928, he was a son of the late Minnie and Truman Hey. A native of Fort Wayne and graduate of Concordia Lutheran High School, where he played on the basketball team, as he did at Indiana University where he was also a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity. In 1952 he married his Concordia classmate, Elfriede (Fritzie) Friedrich, and together they had four children: Heidi, Tina, Byard Jr., and Karla. He was basketball coach for 31 years at North Side High School, going to the state finals in 1965, and winning over 550 games. He was selected into the Indiana High School Athletic Association Basketball Hall of Fame in 1997. North Side honored him by naming its new gymnasium the By Hey Arena. Information coped from his December 17, 2019 Fort Wayne Newspapers Legacy.com obituaryand By Hey's death recalls passing era by Ben Smith published December 17, 2019 in The Journal Gazette newspaper.

Hicks, Angie

Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Angie’s List. See Angie’s List founder named Brilliant Woman of the Year by WANE Staff Reports published November 3, 2016 on CBS WANE-TV NewsChannel 15.

Higgins, Joe

Was Santa Claus at Wolf & Dessauer, the blacksmith on "The Rifleman" television show and Sheriff Joe Higgins in Dodge car commercials. Discussed December 7, 2016 on You are positively from Fort Wayne, if you remember... Archived group only visible to existing members on Facebook and April 15, 2016 on You know you've lived in Fort Wayne too long when... Private Facebook group. Seen in this 1970 Dodge Challenger RT Commerical discussed December 23, 2016 on You are positively from Fort Wayne, if you remember... Archived group only visible to existing members on Facebook.

Hilbrecht, Henry Jr.

Henry Hilbrecht Jr. was born about 1850 to Henry Hilbrecht Sr. and Sopie Muesing. His parents hailed from Prussia and his father supported the family working as a blacksmith in Fort Wayne.

Henry began his career as a laborer in a shop and around 1873, he became a firefighter. He was married to Christina Dreibelbiss in 1876 and they had three children together: Robert, Clara, and Florence. Robert died as an infant and Clara passed away at the age of 18 in 1901.

Henry began his firefighting career as a horse drive in 1873 and quickly moved up the ranks. By 1882, he was named Fire Chief and remained in this role for over 40 years!

As the Fort Wayne Sentinel reported, “after once getting a taste of a fireman’s life, he could not desert the avocation and his ability as a firefighter and as a director or men soon became apparent. His administration of the business affairs of the department has been equally as successful as his work in saving property and lives and he has combined all the qualities to make an efficient chief”.

His wife, Christina died at the age of 48 in April 1903 of cancer. Her obituary described her disposition as “kindly, cheery, and helpful” and that she was “very widely known and universally esteemed”.

Henry Hilbrecht died March 16, 1925 of liver cancer. He is buried at Lindenwood Cemetery in Fort Wayne.

Explore the Ft. Wayne Firefighter collection under Government Records here: https://www.genealogycenter.info/fwacdb.php.

Copied from a January 13, 2023 post by the Genealogy Center on Facebook where each Friday in January it’s #FirefighterFriday where they will be featuring photos and historical bios from their firefighter collection (Collection courtesy of Donald A. Weber).

They included photos: (1903, April 27). Wife of Fire Chief Succumbs to Cancer. The Fort Wayne Sentinel, p. 8. (1906, February 4). A Tale of Sixty Years of Firefighting. The Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, p. 11.

Hilger, John

NACS board member dies in Amsterdam Hilger stricken on spring break cruise by Ashley Sloboda published April 11, 2017 in The Journal Gazette newspaper. Heart attack takes life of Queen of Angels deacon published April 11, 2017 on Today's Catholic News. NACS board member John Hilger has passed away Former co-owner of Hilger's Friendly Market suffered a heart attack by Justin Kenny published April 12, 2017 in The News-Sentinel newspaper.

Hilltoppers, Nancy Lee and the

A January 31, 2018 by The History Center on Facebook stated:

Fort Wayne has a long tradition of producing talented voices and Addison Agen is our community’s latest great vocalist! Today we remember the lead vocalists of two famed 20th century musical groups with local roots.

Joe Taylor and the Redbirds: At the age of 15, Joe Taylor moved to Fort Wayne in 1936 and by 1948 had formed Joe Taylor and his Indiana Redbirds. The Redbirds performed throughout the country from 1948 until their retirement in 1998.

Nancy Lee and the Hilltoppers: Sam & Nancy DeVincent moved to Fort Wayne in 1945. In that year, Sam became the music director of WOWO and the couple founded Nancy Lee and the Hilltoppers. The Hilltoppers performed weekly on WOWO News/Talk 1190 AM & 107.5 FM's popular “Little Red Barn” program from 1945 until 1994. #sociallyhistory

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A 1947 photo was posted December 22, 2011 on the original Great Memories and History of Fort Wayne, Indiana page on Facebook.

Sam DeVincent was born January 8, 1918, and lived primarily in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He collected sheet music and related materials during most of his lifetime. His interest included both the music and the cover art. Because he had little money to support his collecting, DeVincent gathered most of his material through careful searches and travel.
DeVincent and his wife used the music he collected in their musical group, Nancy Lee and the Hilltoppers. The group performed regularly on radio station WOWO in Fort Wayne, Indiana, from 1945 to 1955. After 1955 (and the emergence of rock and roll), Nancy Lee and the Hilltoppers played weekly on the radio station. At this time, DeVincent worked as an all-night disc jockey at WOWO. In 1960 he became music director and music librarian at the station. His position as music librarian helped him to add to his collection.
DeVincent retired from WOWO in 1983. He and his wife continued to perform publicly including their weekly radio show on WOWO. The National Museum of American History acquired the DeVincent collection in the spring of 1988. Sam DeVincent passed away November 29, 1997. Posted December 12, 2011 on the original Great Memories and History of Fort Wayne, Indiana page on Facebook.

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Hinderer, Everett "Shorty Cook"

87, of Fort Wayne, owner/operator of Music Manor on Fairfield since 1959, died Friday, Feb. 1, 2002, at Hospice Home of Northeast Indiana. The Bremen native was founder/musician of Shorty Cook and The Downhomers. Surviving are his wife, Millie; a daughter, Karen Persen of Palm Springs, Calif.; stepdaughters Marilyn Daffron and Karen Sciriha, both of Taylor, Mich., and Barbara Jeffery of Fort Wayne; a son, Larry of Texarkana, Ark.; stepsons Robert Kirtley. See UC Santa Barbara LibraryDigital Collections for a sample album. A member of the Down Homers in 1946 along with Bill Haley. Cook later co-wrote "Four Leaf Clover Blues", which was one of Haley's first recordings with the Four Aces of Western Swing. Cook worked at a music store in Fort Wayne, Indiana until his death in 2001. From Great Memories and History of Fort Wayne, Indiana. Photos posted January 9, 2023 on True Fort Wayne Indiana History on Facebook.

Hines, Sheldon

In 1942 & 1943, a Lincoln photographer serving in the US Navy, developed a method for producing 3-D photos that allowed fighter pilots to look at the terrain they would fly over prior to an air raid, from an April 10, 2011 90 Fun Facts from The History Center on Facebook.

Hisner, Harley Parnell

88, born November 6, 1926, a son of Nelson and Edna Hisner, near the small town of Maples, died March 20, 2015, wife of 65 years Anna B. Cain died in 2013. 1976 inductee into the Northeast Indiana Baseball Association's Hall of Fame, a board member for 12 years and in 2010 received the Colin Lister Award, the Monroeville native gave up Joe DiMaggio's last regular-season hit from Local baseball legend Parnell Hisner diesby Blake Sebring published March 21, 2015 in The Journal Gazette newspaper. Surviving were his daughters, Deborah A. (Gary) Spry of Monroeville and Beverly J. Hoffman of Hoagland; son, Randy P. (Cheryl) Hisner of Decatur; eight grandchildren, Angela Spry, Joshua (Jennifer) Gibson, Trisha Spry, Erik (Jessica) Hisner, Ashley (Brian) Brames, Ryan Hisner, Shane Hisner and Gavin Hisner; and seven great-grandchildren, Lily Brames, Taylor Davis-Gibson, Emmett Gibson, Kaydence Thompson, Blakeley Hisner, Evelyn Gibson, and Brayden Hisner. He was preceded in death by his wife, Anna; three grandchildren, Adam Gibson in 1995, John Gibson in infancy, and Jennifer Spry in infancy; sister, Marvine; and three brothers, Rowland, Gerald, and Gordon. from his DecaturDaily Democrat obituary or Fort Wayne Newspapers March 22, 2015 obituary.

Historians

A January 2, 2023 post on True Fort Wayne Indiana History on Facebook asked who is a great Fort Wayne Historian living in the Fort? Many names were listed including: John Ankenbruck, Dan Baker - photography, ARCH, John Beatty - ACPL librarian, Tom Castaldi, Terry Doran, Fort Wayne Food Tours, Alan Gaff - Anthony Wayne, late B. J. Griswold, Mitch Harper, Randy Harter, The History Center, G. Stanley Hood, Kevin Leininger - News-Sentinel, Steve Tiny Michaels, late Greg Michell, Geoff Paddock - Headwaters Park, Jim Pickettt, Matt Reibs, Joshua Schipper, Blake Sebring - Sports, Cindy from Sentimental Journey Carriage rides, Creager Smith, Nancy Venderly - journalist, Dan Wire - rivers.

Hively, Lindsey

July 25, 1987-April 23, 2015, rising entrepeneur, owner of the Poptique Gourmet Popcorn shops at Jefferson Pointe and in Columbia City. In 2013 was one of the 40 Under 40 - Lindsey Hively posted March 15, 2013 on Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly. Your Story Made Here: Poptique video and story by Melissa Long published July 1, 2014 on 21AliveNews.com. She was one of the most happy people I’ve ever met. quote from Local businesswoman loses battle to cancer by Jeff Wiehe published April 23, 2015 in The Journal Gazette newspaper. Smith & Sons Funeral Home April 24, 2015 obituary.

Hoagland, Joseph Christoffel

Bottom of page 476 of The pictorial history of Fort Wayne, Indiana : a review of two centuries of occupation of the region about the head of the Maumee River by Griswold, B. J. (Bert Joseph), 1873-1927; Taylor, Samuel R., Mrs, Publication date 1917 on Archive.org

In 1865 discovered baking soda, moved to New York to establish Royal Baking Powder Company. Newspaper clipping and discussion October 17, 2022 on True Fort Wayne Indiana History on Facebook. The Royal Baking Powder Company was one of the largest producers of baking powder in the US. History It was started by brothers Joseph Christoffel Hoagland and Cornelius Nevius Hoagland in 1866, It later came under the ownership of William Ziegler, and then his adopted son, William Ziegler Jr. In 1929, the Royal Baking Powder Co., along with four other companies including the Fleischmann's Yeast Company, merged to form Standard Brands, the number-two brand of packaged foods in America after General Foods. Through a further merger, Standard Brands itself became part of Nabisco in 1981. As of 2017, Nabisco is a subsidiary of Mondelez International; Royal Baking Powder is still marketed today, currently by Hulman & Company. Copied from Royal Baking Powder Company at Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. More history at 7 quotes about Royal Baking Powder June 24, 2015 on BeachPackagingDesign.com.

Hocker, Susie Mae

Born May 13, 1880 in Monroe, Adams County to Joseph & Jesteen (Sunier) Hocker. See Susie Mae Hocker.

Hofer, Adolf Karl

An eminent civil engineer of early 20th century Fort Wayne. He was born October 23, 1888 in Fort Wayne. His father Theodore Hofer was born in Bavaria, Germany and came to this country in 1880 where he married Catherine Schug. Adolf attended the Bloomingdale School in what was known as the German Room. He later went to Central High School. Adolf with his photo was one of about 230 people featured in Bert J. Griswold's 1926 book "Builders of Greater Fort Wayne". A.K. was 38 years old at the time, and would leave his mark on Fort Wayne for another 42 years! 

December 30, 2010 post by Hofer and Davis, Inc. Land Surveyors on Facebook:

AK HOFER First 50 years map 1913-1963

December 30, 2023 share on True Fort Wayne Indiana History on Facebook:

My dad gave this map of Fort Wayne to my grandfather in 1963 with some of his subdivisions highlighted marking 50 years since he graduated as a Civil Engineer from Purdue in 1913.

April 29, 2016 post by Hofer and Davis, Inc. Land Surveyors on Facebook:

Our friend Craig Leonard gave us this article from the Journal Gazette from May 18, 1919. We have a picture in the Wall of Fame with A.K. and Mr. Larimore in those offices at the Bass Block. Thank you Craig! Stop by one of these days and we will give you the full tour! Now there is a "Throwback Thursday" on Friday!

Devember 1, 2016 post by Hofer and Davis, Inc. Land Surveyors on Facebook:

For "Throwback Thursday" we present this 1967 photo taken at the old office at 414 Utility Building of A.K. Hofer on the left and Carl A. Hofer on the right.

Shared December 1, 2022:
I don’t know why the post says 1967, the map is the 1963 edition. My father on the right presented my grandfather on the left with this map stating “CONGRATULATIONS A.K. FOR THE FIRST “50” SOME PRODUCTION”.

My grandfather graduated from Purdue in 1913 and Dad highlighted his larger plats.

The picture is hard to read, but I still have it. Some of the plats signed by my grandfather include

HIDDEN VALLEYS, SUNNYBROOK ACRES, KIRKWOOD PARK, BRENTWOOD PARK, FOREST HILL, KENSINGTON PARK, SOUTH KENSINGTON PARK, HOFERS FIRST, NORTH HIGHLANDS, TOWER HEIGHTS, INDIAN VILLAGE, SOUTHWOOD PARK, HARRISON HILL, WOODHURST, LINCOLNSHIRE, LIBERTY GARDENS, WAYNEDALE GARDENS, and many more.

In 1926 at 38 years old he was included in Bert Griswold’s book “BUILDERS OF GREATER FORT WAYNE “.

March 8, 2018 post by Hofer and Davis, Inc. Land Surveyors on Facebook.

For "Throwback Thursday" we reshare this from our FACEBOOK infancy in 2010. This is company founder, A.K. Hofer, who was one of about 230 people featured in Bert J. Griswold's 1926 book "Builders of Greater Fort Wayne". A.K. was 38 years old at the time, and would leave his mark on Fort Wayne for another 42 years! We certainly have had some big shoes to fill, along with our fathers, Carl A. Hofer and William S. Davis.

His grandson Hans Hofer shares many Hofer posts such as December 1, 2016 showing a 1963 photo taken at the old office at 414 Utility Building of A.K. Hofer and Carl A. Hofer, then shared December 12, 2022 with a list of some of the major plats he signed for local developments on True Fort Wayne Indiana History on Facebook.

Hogestyn, Drake

February 24, 2023 Facebook image

Born September 29, 1953 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he graduated from North Side High School. From Drake Hogestyn on Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Portrayed John Black since 1986 on the NBC daytime show “Days of Our Lives” star discusses his workout routines in Actor, city native keeps moving by Kimberly Dupps Truesdell published January 6, 2014 in The Journal Gazette newspaper. A November 10, 2017 discussion on the original Great Memories and History of Fort Wayne, Indiana page on Facebook. One of my favorite childhood memories is walking along the St. Joe River with my dad to Johnny Appleseed Park to play a little one-on-one baseball...because it was spring and it was the first ball of the season and I had my dad all to myself. Image quote is from February 24, 2023 post on Great Memories and History of Fort Wayne Private Facebook Group. Would like to find a confirming online source for the quote.

Holden Hunter Shuler Long, Eva Nellie

Born July 17, 1873 in Findlay, Ohio to Pearson B. & Flora A. (Barnhill) Holden. See Hunter Shuler Long Holden.

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Holden, Flora Jane

Born January 3, 1893 in Chicago IL to James Boyd Hunter and Eva Nellie Holden born at home 1170 Washington Blvd. See Flora Jane Holden.

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Holman, Emerine Jane

Born in Indiana Terrritory, daughter of one of the first members of Indiana’s Supreme Court. She married Allen Hamilton when she was 17 and they moved to Fort Wayne where Allen became Allen County’s first sheriff. Emerine had 11 children and two of her granddaughters, Edith and Alice Hamilton, would become famous for their work. Personal friends with Susan B. Anthony, she used to stay at the ‘Old House’ (the Hamilton home that stood where Central High School was later built) when her travels brought them to Fort Wayne. Learn more in The Extraordinary Hamilton Family. Read more In Celebration of Women's History Month: Fort Wayne Women by Nancy McCammon-Hansen published March 11, 2014 in the History Center Notes & Queries blog.

Hoosier

January 12, 2017 post by the Indiana Bicentennial Commission on Facebook:

CHECK THIS OUT // Have you heard?! As of today, Indiana residents are officially "Hoosiers" according to the federal government. This was at the request of Sen. Joe Donnelly and former Senator Dan Coats, who argued Indiana residents have proudly called themselves Hoosiers for more than 180 years, even if no one is sure where the term came from.

Don't call them Indianians; they're Hoosiers

December 15, 2023 post by the U.S. Forest Service - Hoosier National Forest on Facebook:

Ever Wonder How to Pronounce the Name Hoosier? Look No Further!

HOOSIER - pronounced hoo'zher - is an inhabitant or native of Indiana, and the name of our National Forest.

No one is quite sure where the term originated for certain, but more information about the word can be found at: Where did the Name Hoosier Come From?

#hoosiernationalforest

July 14, 2017 post by Indiana Historical Bureau on Facebook:

According to a 19th century source, one of the earliest purported references to a "Hoosier" appeared in a Fountain County schoolmaster's diary entry on July 14, 1827. In the passage, the diarist related an anecdote "about a squatter who gave a false alarm that Indians were coming, in order that he might ride to [the land office in] Crawfordsville and enter a claim for his land ahead of some speculators he had seen looking it over. Successful in his deceit, he boasted: "There is a Yankee trick for you -- done up by a Hoosier."

Read more about the possible origins and meanings of "Hoosier" via Jeffrey Graf's incomparable web page from the Herman B Wells Library http://www.indiana.edu/~librcsd/internet/extra/hoosier.html

Illustration of a "Hoosier" from an 1867 issue of Harper's Weekly, see the Indiana University url above. [link is broken - see the actual Harper's Weekly below]

Page 697 centerfold of the November 2, 1867 Harper's Weekly
Indiana State Fair at Terre Haute, October 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 -- Among the Hoosiers--sketched by J. F. Gooking--[See page 698] on Archive.org.
Historical Treasure: Among the Hoosiers: at the 1867 State Fair Randy Padgett Special to the Tribune-Star Aug 15, 2020 has a colorized image of the centerfold page.

February 18, 2018 and expanded February 19, 2019 post which included a photocopy of the original newspaper item by Indiana Historical Bureau on Facebook:

On February 19, 1831, the Vincennes Gazette ran a letter to the editorl with Hoosher the earliest-known printed variation of the word, "Hoosier." This discovery was made by Jonathan Clark Smith of Hanover College, who concluded that "Indiana's nickname originated not as a derisive term for the state's southern migrants but as an indication of local pride in those who sought to improve the state's economy."

To read more, check out his brief article on the discovery in the Indiana Magazine of History: https://goo.gl/HDGaN6.

You can also read the press release from IU: https://goo.gl/fHQeS1.

July 27, 2023 post by WANE 15 on Facebook:

For many first-time visitors to the state of Indiana, one question arises faster than just about any other.

What actually is a Hoosier?

1. Hoosier: A Brief Overview including transcript at Talking Hoosier History at IN.gov.
2. The Word Hoosier a 119 page paper by Jeffrey Graf Reference Services Department Herman B Wells Library Indiana University Libraries.
3. According to a 19th century source, one of the earliest purported references to a "Hoosier" appeared in a Fountain County schoolmaster's diary entry on July 14, 1827. It comes from The Word Hoosier by Jeffrey Graf of Indiana University above referenced in a July 14, 2017 post by Indiana Historical Bureau on Facebook.
4. The May 7, 1919 Indianapolis News newspaper front page headline was Indianians by Thousands Pay Tribute to Men and Women Who Helped Put the Huns to Rout on Hoosier State Chronicles Indiana's Digital Historic Newspaper Program.
5. New Findings on the Earliest Written Uses of "Hoosier" by Jonathan Clark Smith published in Volume 104, Issue 3, September 2008, pages 293-295 of the Indiana Magazine of History.
6. Hoosier is a name for a person from Indiana apparently became common after 1833, when John Finley, Richmond, Indiana published his poem The Hoosier’s Nest from Introducing Indiana Past and Present - State of Indiana page 10 IN.gov.
7. Hoosier is one of the oldest of state nicknames according to What is a Hoosier? also on IN.gov includes some theories on the Hoosier origin on in.gov.
8. What the Heck is a Hoosier? by Erin Heck on FunCityFinder.com references the 1986 movie Hoosiers about the Milan basketball state champions. Also the nickname for Indiana University.
9. Hoosier on Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia has more.
10. Donnelly, Young Announce Government Publishing Office to Call Indiana Residents “Hoosiers” Instead of “Indianans” Donnelly and then-Representative Young sent letters requesting change published January 12, 2017 on donnelly.senate.gov Press Releases. What’s in a name? Government Publishing Office officially recognizes Hoosiers as Hoosiers published January 26, 2017 on Indiana State Library blog.
11. The Word “Hoosier:” An Origin Story by Lindsey Beckley posted June 12, 2018 on the Indiana Historical Bureau blog.
12. THH Season 01 Bonus: Hoosier: A Brief Overview by Lindsey Beckley posted on July 2, 2018 on the Indiana Historical Bureau blog.
13. The Word Hoosier; John Finley Indiana Historical Society Publications, Volume IV, Number 2 published on Internet Archive.
14. The Origin of the Word ‘Hoosier’: A New Interpretation Published: Aug 30, 2018 by William D. Piersen. Abstract: Neither of these first two speculations was particularly complimentary of early Indiana life, so some state residents adopted more flattering explanations of Hoosier origin. Several argued that the word "hoosier" derived from a mispronunciation of the European term "hussar" attached to Hoosier boatmen in honor of their fighting hearts and manly prowess. Others contended that high-spirited Indiana boatmen were termed "hoosiers" because they liked to jump up and crack their heels together while shouting "Huzza!" But neither the "hussars" theory nor its "huzza" counterpart accounts for the derogatory way the term was actually used in the early Southeast, and neither has ever been taken seriously as a likely etymology by students of American usage. Volume 112, Issue 3, September 2016 of Indiana Magazine of History journal in the archives at Indiana University Scholarworks.
15. Where did ‘Hoosier’ come from? An Indiana bill seeks to answer that question for good. A Republican state lawmaker wants to enshrine “The Hoosier State” as Indiana’s official nickname by Casey Smith - January 12, 2023 on Indiana Capital Chronicle..
16. “Hoosier” is not official, but to formalize an origin story as the accepted version of how the name came to be is just so wrong according to Politician's proposal would take mystery out of 'Hoosier' by Leo Morris January 19, 2023 in The Journal Gazette newspaper.
17. What is a Hoosier? Indiana bill — with a possible answer — dies in committee by Casey Smith - February 21, 2023 Indiana Capital Chronicle.

18. February 21, 2023 post by Indiana Historical Bureau on Facebook:

    There has been a lot of interest recently in the Black Methodist preacher Harry Hoosier. Who was he? And is it possible that people from Indiana are named for him? The Indiana History Blog breaks it down: Who is Harry Hoosier? And Are People from Indiana Named for Him?

     

    Introduced Version HOUSE BILL No. 1143 DIGEST OF INTRODUCED BILL Citations Affected: IC 1-2-18. Synopsis: Designation of state nickname. Provides that "The Hoosier State" is designated as the official nickname of the state of Indiana. Provides that the designation is to recognize and memorialize the legacy of Harry Hoosier. Makes certain findings in recognizing Harry Hoosier as the namesake of The Hoosier State. Effective: July 1, 2023.

    December 21, 2023 post by Indiana Historical Bureau on Facebook:

    Our most-read #IndianaHistoryBlog post of 2023 addresses the age-old question: Where did the term “Hoosier” originate?

    This year, there was significant interest in the Black Methodist preacher Harry Hoosier. Jill Weiss Simins’s blog post addresses “Who is Harry Hoosier? And Are People from Indiana Named for Him?”

    Read it now: Who is Harry Hoosier? And Are People from Indiana Named for Him?

    The picture of Harry Hoosier is courtesy of the Indiana Magazine of History.

19. December 11, 2023 post by Ray E. Boomhower on Facebook:

    "Probably 'Hoosier' is better known in the United States than any locale nickname save 'Yankee,' but in Indiana is is used seriously only by editorial writers, Fourth of July orators, and chamber-of-commerce propagandists, and in his private life any of these would shoot like a dog a man who called him a Hoosier. Why does the Hoosier whisper diffidently that he is from Indiana (whereas the Texan bellows that he's from Texas)?"

    ". . . America is a larger Indiana; and if we knew what had gone wrong--and right--with the nation, Indiana is a good place to look for clues, the Hoosier wind carries many a straw. This Indiana is in truth . . . 'down at the grass roots where it all emanates from.'"

    John Bartlow Martin, "Indiana: An Interpretation"

20. December 21, 2023 post by WANE 15 on Facebook:

    At a banquet in 1888, General Lewis “Lew” Wallace spoke on the potential meanings of the word “Hoosier”, trying to steer away from the negative connotation.

    Changing the meaning of the term ‘Hoosier,’ the Lew Wallace way

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Hoover, Jesse

In the spring of 1838, Jesse Hoover died unexpectedly at age 28. His energy and devotion helped shape the foundation of the Fort Wayne Lutheran community. Jesse Hoover and St. Paul’s Lutheran May 28, 2013 by Carmen Doyle on the History Center Notes & Queries blog.

Hope, Bob

In 1928, made his first appearance as an emcee at the Emboyd Theatre known now as the Embassy, from 90 Fun Facts at The History Center. Bob Hope's first crowd of 11,123 still stands as a crowd record at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum according to the ScottyMoore.net.

Hopple Family

George Hopple, b 1-24-1791 PA, d 12-6-1871 Allen Co., IN, m Margaret, b 7-8-1790 KY, d 7-24-1869. The Hopples moved from Allen Co to Adams Co,  before 1839, when they sold some land to their dau and her husband, Hugh & Sarah O'Hara.. See Hopple Family. Back to top

Hormann, Kent

A Heritage High School and Ball State graduate, started his professional career at WFFT in 1978, WKJG from 1981 to 1995 and 1998 to 2005, and at Federated Media in between. He worked at IPFW from 2005 to 2008, starting in 2005, Hormann began working for WPTA and currently splits time between WKJG and WPTA. In 2016 selected for induction into the Indiana Sportswriters and Sportscasters Hall of Fame. A Snider High School and Ball State graduate, has worked at The News-Sentinel since 2000, predominately covering Indiana University and Purdue University athletics. DiPrimio, Hormann picked for Indiana sportswriting, sportscasting Hall of Fame by News-Sentinel staff published January 14, 2016 in The News-Sentinel newspaper. Kent Hormann elected to Indiana Sportswriters & Sportscasters Hall of Fame by Indiana Sportswriters & Sportscasters Hall of Fame and Eric Dutkiewicz published January 14, 2016 on 21AliveNews.com. Kent Hormann inducted into Indiana Sportswriters & Sportscasters Hall of Fame story and video by Eric Dutkiewicz published April 10, 2016 on 21AliveNews.com.

Horstman, Catherine "Katie"

Fort Wayne. Played for the Fort Wayne Daisies part of 1951 through 1954. See Great Memories and History of Fort Wayne, Indiana photo and Jimmie Foxx coach photo.

Horton, J. Webb

Few transplants to Fort Wayne have had careers has varied as Horton, 65, who moved to the city in 1970 from Erie, Pa., to be deputy director of the Metropolitan Human Relations Commission. He later worked for Fort Wayne Community Schools as director of human development in the wake of desegregation. An active tennis player and coach, he served stints as tennis coach at Saint Francis College and IPFW’s men’s and women’s teams. Read the rest of the story Where are they now? Success follows former area newsmakers to their new locales Editorial page staff of The Journal Gazette January 6, 2013.

Hosey, William J.

20th mayor, and four-term mayor of Fort Wayne, Indiana succeeded in his final term by Harry W. Baals. c. 1909 Born May 5, 1854, New Orleans, Orleans Parish, Louisiana to Michael and Jean Frayne Hosey, immigrated to the United States from County Wexford in Ireland. Died September 10, 1937 Fort Wayne. Between 1905 and 1934 he served four non-consecutive terms of office. Hosey Dam on the Maumee River is one lasting reminder. His January 6, 1914 family photo in The Journal Gazette newspaper posted February 27, 2017 on the original Great Memories and History of Fort Wayne, Indiana page on Facebook. Mayor William Hosey championed the elevation of the railroad beds through the city when he took office in 1909, arguing that the trains snarled traffic and impeded growth. While he succeeded in fashioning a plan for the Pennsylvania and Wabash railroads to raise their track beds - as shown here in 1911 near the Weber Hotel at 1601 S. Calhoun Street - the city would not realize a midtown elevation until the 1950s. quote from Scott M. Bushnell, Historic Photos of Fort Wayne, Turner Publishing Company, 2007 posted with photo December 25, 2022 on True Fort Wayne Indiana History on Facebook. William J Hosey Section C, Lot 307 in the Catholic Cemetery at Find A Grave. William J. Hosey on Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia.

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Houlihan, Sandra

March 13, 2017, Former County Council member, 'conservative icon' Sandra Houlihan dies by Kevin Leininger published Marsh 15, 2017 in The News-Sentinel newspaper.

Howell, Margaret

February 17, 2023 post by the Genealogy Center on Facebook:

February is Black History Month - each Friday this month, we will be featuring stories to recognize and highlight Fort Wayne's African American heritage.

Today, we are featuring Margaret Howell.

Margaret (Palmer) Walker was born in 1902 and came to Fort Wayne in 1920 from Atlanta, GA.

Margaret came with her husband, Fred Walker and their children. Mr. Walker later passed away.

Margaret quickly became involved in her new community. She was a member of the Union Baptist Church, taught Sunday School, and was active in the Pastor’s Aid Society. Margaret also held several positions over the years. She worked part-time for Dr. Adams, a physician with a practice on Calhoun St. and later she worked at the Kindler Hotel as a private maid to the owner. In 1924, she began working for the Republican Party, distributing election materials and later worked at party headquarters, recruiting members and showing people how to operate voting machines. Later, she was hired at the Wayne Pump and worked there until 1949.

Thirman Howell and Margaret Walker were united in marriage on April 13, 1946.

At this time, discrimination was still quite prevalent as African Americans did not have equal access to restaurants, hotels, or a number of other facilities. Mr. and Mrs. Howell decided to open a hotel to provide access to lodging for African Americans. Opened in the late 1940s at Hanna and Wallace Streets, the Howell Hotel was the first recognized African American hotel in Fort Wayne. The hotel operated until 1966.

After the hotel’s closure, both Mr. and Mrs. Howell remained active in the community. Thirman worked for a detective agency and later opened his own upholstery business. He also served within the Turner Chapel AME Church. Margaret served for 18 years on the board of the Phyllis Wheatley Community Center, as vice chairman of the Republican Committee and was a member of the Margaret Howell Club which was named in her honor. In addition to this, she was involved with several other local organizations.

Thirman died in 1989 and Margaret followed him in death a year later in 1990. They are buried together at the Covington Memorial Gardens in Fort Wayne.

African/African-American Historical Museum. (2005). Miscellaneous biographical articles about African Americans in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Memorial Cards from the Marsha Smiley Collection. View them here: https://www.genealogycenter.info/results_smileymemorials.php 

Howenstine, Eld. Solon A.

From the cradle to the grave : life of Eld. Solon A. Howenstine (1894) - Howenstine, Lydia Kimmel, printed in Fort Wayne, Indiana Archive.org.

Hubler, Thomas

Civil War Union Soldier. He was the youngest Civil War soldier to serve the longest amount of time in the Union army. He enlisted, at the age of 9, on May 7, 1861 as a drummer in the 12th Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He later re-enlisted for three more years. At the end of his service young Tommy was not yet 14 years old. Although his Find-A-Grave Memorial says he was born in Warsaw, Kosciusko County, The Recollections of a Drummer-Boy by Harry M Kieffer, 1881 shown below say he was born in Fort Wayne and moved to Warsaw when he was two years old.

Hughes, Guy

Rick Hughes went on the air as a WLYV-AM "Lyv Guy" on July 24, 1966. 50 years on: A lot has changed for 'LYV Guy' Hughes, but the passion and music endure by Kevin Leininger published April 23, 2016 on The News-Sentinel newspaper.

Hunt, Diann - local author, 58, died November 29, 2013 after several years of trying to beat cancer. She wrote approximately 25 books, mostly romantic comedies. Hunt's book For Better or For Worse was published in January 2008. She was contacted by a film producer in spring 2013 and the movie premiered July 19, 2014. Read more in Local premiere party celebrates late local author's book being made into Hallmark Channel TV movie by Kevin Kilbane published July 16, 2014 in The News-Sentinel newspaper.

Humbarger, Judy

In the 1960s and 1970s, swimmer Judy Humbarger put Fort Wayne on the map as she broke record after record, winning city...

Posted by Wildwood Park Community Association on Monday, April 15, 2024

Monday, April 15, 2024 post by Wildwood Park Community Association on Facebook:

In the 1960s and 1970s, swimmer Judy Humbarger put Fort Wayne on the map as she broke record after record, winning city titles, then national ones and then competing in the Olympics. She grew up at 3410 Portage Blvd. in Wildwood Park.

Judith Babis Fort Wayne Newspapers Legacy.com obituary

Judith K. "Judy" (Humbarger) Babis, 73, of Seminole, FL, passed away on April 1, 2024, at her home. Judy was born in Ft. Wayne on Sept. 20, 1950. She graduated from Indiana University and Ball State University. Judy was an exceptional person in everything she did or was involved in. It didn't matter if it was for fun or for work-she excelled in everything. Judy was a very friendly and social person with a heart of gold. She was everyone's best friend and always made you feel at home. Judy loved to cook and entertain just like her mother did. Judy's accomplishments were far and wide but her best accomplishments were in swimming. She was part mermaid in the pool at a young age. Judy was a member of the U.S. National Swim Team and the U.S. Olympic Swim Team. She traveled all over the world, competing in Russia, Japan, New Zealand, Scotland and more. She acquired a multitude of first place ribbons and other awards from all over the world during her competition in national and international swim meets. Most significant, are her five first place U.S. National Records set by Judy in 1966 and that the City of Ft. Wayne awarded her the "Citation of Honor" for outstanding athletic achievement. Judy was inducted into the 1975 International Women's Athletic Hall of Fame. Judy was one of a kind and everybody loved her. She was her husband's best friend and the love of her life. Her passing will be felt by many people for a long time.

In addition to her husband, Barton "Bart" Babis, Judy is survived by her sisters, Vicki McBride and Valerie Brabbs, and other family members and close friends. Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Donna Humbarger. Per Judy's wishes, there will be no services. She has chosen to donate her body to medical science.

Humphrey, Colonel George

Canal boat Col. Humphrey at the Allen County Public Library Digital Collections at the Allen County Public Library.

Discussed April 3, 2024 on True Fort Wayne Indiana History on Facebook.

George Humphrey on Find A Grave.

Hunter, Denise

Author and made for television movies video on Local Writer with Hollywood Connections by Eric Olsen 21Country 21AliveNews.com.

Hunter, Hamilton Wellington

Born November 21, 1897 in Chicago, IL to James Boyd Hunter and Eva Nellie Holden. See Hamilton Wellington Hunter.

Hunter, James Boyd

Born June 19, 1900 in Chicago, IL to Eva Nellie (Holden) Hunter. See James Boyd Hunter.

Hunter, Joseph Richard

Born November 26, 1931 at Lutheran Hospital, died February 21, 1936. See Joseph Richard Hunter.

Hutchins, Christine

122nd’s 1st female chief hits goal, makes history by Jeff Wiehe published September 29, 2013 on The Journal Gazette newspaper.

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