First Families of Ohio

Member jure Barzilla Bunnell (1807, Ross County) and Sophia Baumgardener (1810, Warren County)

The First Families of Ohio is a lineage society of the Ohio Genealogical Society, honoring descendants of pioneers who settled in Ohio by the end of 1820. This prestigious society recognizes the significant contributions of these early settlers in shaping Ohio’s history and preserving their legacy for future generations.

Barzilla Bunnell and Sophia Baumgardener

Barzilla Bunnell was born on April 9, 1807, in Ross County, Ohio, and Sophia Baumgardener was born on August 28, 1810, in Warren County, Ohio. They married on August 16, 1832, and began their life together in Ohio, where Barzilla worked as a farmer. Their early years in Ohio are emblematic of the pioneering spirit that defined the state’s early settlers.

Contributions and Legacy

Barzilla and Sophia raised a family and contributed to the growth of their community through their dedication to agriculture. In the mid-19th century, they relocated to White County, Indiana, where they continued their farming pursuits. Barzilla’s work ethic and Sophia’s role in managing their household underscore the resilience and determination of Ohio’s early settlers.

Sophia passed away on January 23, 1883, and Barzilla followed on December 29, 1891. Both are buried in the Bunnell Cemetery in Reynolds, Indiana. Their lives and legacy are honored as part of Ohio’s early settler history, and my membership in First Families of Ohio ensures their contributions are remembered.

About First Families of Ohio

Established by the Ohio Genealogical Society, First Families of Ohio is a lineage society that recognizes descendants of individuals who resided in the state before 1821. Members must demonstrate direct descent and provide documented evidence of their ancestors’ residency in Ohio during this period.

Inductees are honored at the annual Ohio Genealogical Society Conference, where they receive a certificate and a commemorative pin. Those proving ancestors who lived in Ohio by 1803 also receive the FFO 1803 Bicentennial pin, marking their ties to Ohio’s earliest pioneers.

Legacy and Membership

Through my membership in First Families of Ohio, I honor the lives of Barzilla Bunnell and Sophia Baumgardener, whose journey and contributions reflect the pioneering values of early Ohio settlers. Their story is a testament to the enduring impact of Ohio’s first families on the state’s history and development.

Additional memberships will be added as they are approved.