Frederick Martch - Bishop Post, G.A.R.

Sometimes known as Fred March, this Fred used Martch more often, especially on census and any official records.  Frederick Martch was born in New York on October 31, 1834, but came early to Henry County, Ohio and there married Anna Maria Ruecke in 1857.  They lived in Pleasant Township, Henry County, in both the 1860 and 1870 censuses.

He was a family man, father to Sophia and Frederick Wesley and perhaps George Phillip, when he enlisted on August 21, 1862, joining Company D, 124th O.V.I. at about 28 years old.  He served two years, nine months and ten days, until mustering out on May 31, 1865.  He reported no disabilities on the 1890 Veterans Census.

By 1880, the census enumerator found Frederick and Anna in Highland Township, Defiance County.  Lizzie, Willie, Peter, Emma, Mathilde and Susan had joined the family by that time. (In 1883, Bertha was added.)  Frederick was farming, and remained in Highland Township until his death in 1926.  His wife preceded him in death in 1912.

He was an active member of the G.A.R., and for many years, was the oldest member of the organization.  His obituary appeared in the Crescent-News on July 22, 1926.

Frederick Martch on www.findagrave.com

(This is part of a series on Civil War veterans of Defiance County who were part of the G.A.R., Bishop Post, that headquartered in the city.  Formed in 1879, the post was named after a local man, Captain William Bishop, Company D, 100th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Army who died as a result of wounds received in battle.  The veterans' photos are part of a composite photo of members that has survived.  If you have other information or corrections to add to the soldiers' stories, please add to the comments!)