The first settlers and pioneers of Winesburg, Ohio came to conquer wilderness and were remembered for lofty courage, high ideals, rugged character, and staunch virtues. The first settlement was made in the spring of 1827. Those named among these early settlers and pioneers are Rev. William Smith, John Michael Smith, Frederick Happold, Dr. August Scheurer, John Valentine Stahl, Christian Smith, Peter Schallioll Sr., Ulrich Blaser, Rev. Daniel Cranz, Dr. Carl Peter, and Nicholas F. Joss.