From the 1885 History of Steuben County, Indiana

pages 577-578

Frederick Straw is a native of Dauphin County, Pa., born June 9, 1811, a son of George and Elizabeth (Gearhart) Straw. But two of a family of ten children are living -- Frederick and Susannah, wife of John Hoover, of Pennsylvania. In the spring of 1856 Mr. Straw moved with his wife and children to Steuben County, Ind., and bought land just west of the present site of the depot in Fremont. There were thirty acres cleared and the rest was heavily timbered. He now has 180 acres of the best land in the township, well improved with good comfortable buildings. At that time there was but one store and a blacksmith shop where now is the thriving village of Fremont. In early life Mr. Straw was a Jackson Democrat, but since its organization has affiliated with the Republican party. He was married in August, 1832, to Catherine Wagner, a native of Cumberland County, Pa., born in 1813. To them were born eight children -- Elias; Anna, wife of Rev. Benj. Wade, of Cass City, Mich.; Elizabeth, wife of Jacob Isenhour; George W.; Frederick, of Muscatine, Iowa; Amanda; Benjamin, of Osage County, Kas., and Philip A. Mrs. Straw died June 17, 1871. She had been a member of the Evangelical Association since 1842 and was one of its most earnest and consistent workers. She was a noble Christian, a devoted wife and mother, a kind friend and neighbor, and her death was a sad blow to many friends and acquaintances, with whom she had labored since her settlement in the county. Mr. Straw is now reaping the reward of years of toil and hardship. He has a pleasant home, kind children, and scores of friends to cheer his pathway. His youngest son, Philip A., is a lecturer of wide repute, at present traveling in Africa. He has had a fine education, and being a fluent speaker and of natural talent he charms his audiences, and his services are in constant demand.

Submitted by Kim Davoli

E-mail: davoli82@juno.com