The Schedel Legacy:
Life & Times of Joseph John & Marie Pauline Schedel
THE ESTATE, BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
The property of the Schedel Arboretum & Gardens was originally owned by the founder of the Village of Elmore, Israel Harrington. It was sold around 1874 to Nathan Morse, then James Morse & finally to James’ children. Philip Smith, who became Mayor of Elmore, purchased some of the property for $5,700. He sold the property to Frederick Von Vultee, a dry goods & grocery store operator in Elmore. Von Vultee also purchased the Morse’s shares and built the brick manor house on the property in 1888. He also built a house across the road in 1905, supposedly because his family became too large for one house. The manor house underwent many renovations over the years. At one time a full porch adorned the front of the house. A fire that was started outside to eradicate honeysuckle in 1934 threatened the house which was ultimately saved by Elmore’s first, and newly acquired fire pumper. After Frederick & Anna Von Vultee moved to Los Angeles, California, Frederick Walter Stiefler, who was married to the Von Vultee’s daughter Mathilda (Tillie), moved into the Manor House.
In 1931 Mr. Stiefler offered to rent the newlywed Joe and Marie Schedel the maid’s quarters in the manor house. The Schedels immediately fell in love with the ‘estate’ and began to dream of its potential. After Fred Stiefler moved to Beverly Hills, California, the Schedels desired a more stable tenancy and at that time signed a 99 year lease for the property. They began to design and landscape with rare trees and shrubs, digging the lakes and raising waterfowl. A breeding duck pen was constructed on the upper lake for year-around propagation operations. Joe began purchasing several homes and farmland adjacent to the estate. It wasn’t until 1969 that Joe and Marie exercised an option in their lease contract and purchased the estate. Over the years other renovations included deepening the lakes and in 1958 constructing, and later enlarging, a small 5 room cottage - affectionately nicknamed the Shack - overlooking the lower of the two lakes. Constructed of cedar with a copper roof, the Shack was essentially home for Joe & Marie, as they seldom occupied the larger manor house.
The property originally consisted of approximately 81 acres. Work on construction of the Ohio Turnpike began in 1945. The State of Ohio acquired 19 acres of the estate bisecting the property. Joe Schedel fought the acquisition by the state and while unsuccessful in having the highway rerouted around his land, was able to obtain some concessions – in addition to monetary compensation – as part of the deal. The road in front of the manor house was relocated away about 500 feet, thanks in part to the County Commissioners who filed a lawsuit. An access road was built under the Portage River Turnpike overpass to allow access to the rest of the property that was bisected by the new roadway. The excavated dirt from the turnpike was used to heighten and reinforce the dike along the Portage River to protect the lower part of the estate from flooding. The Ohio Turnpike opened to the public in 1955.
PERSONAL
Joseph Johann Albert Ignatz Schedel was born on July 15, 1895 to Josef Schedel (05/11/1869 – 08/16/1939) and Lina Scharfel Schedel (08/19/1871 - 12/07/1947) in Freiburg, Germany. He was one of nine children. His family operated a limestone quarrying business called Schedel Steinwekre located in Greding Germany.
Joe Schedel graduated from the Engineering College of Strelitz Alt, Germany in 1912. Having great engineering interest in the Panama Canal, Joe traveled to Central America in 1913 to view the canal and learn of the workings of the locks. World War I commenced in 1914 and Joe, concerned about his draft status, chose to seek employment in Panama. He resided in Panama until about 1920 working as a surveyor and civil engineer. While there he learned to speak fluent Spanish. That would be great benefit later in his Cuban business ventures.
Seeking employment in the United States, Joe Schedel traveled to Missouri, Illinois and eventually Ohio working as a civil engineer and design consultant. During that period, Joe designed plant floor plans and machinery layouts to accomplish a company’s objectives and improve efficiency and profitability. He became fluent in the English language without any formal education. He reportedly learned some of the finer points of English from an Elmore native, Neil Miller. In later years he allegedly refused to converse in his native language with guests from Germany, insisting instead that English was his preferred language. Joe lived in Aurora, Illinois as well as Columbus, Forest, Zanesville, Fostoria and finally settled in Elmore Ohio. After settling in Elmore, he was employed in a tile & brick factory. During that experience, Joe discovered an improved method for making firebrick that was used to line steel blast furnaces. This solidified his reputation as an innovative engineer and his services became sought after, allowing him to pursue further study of engineering and mining.
Marie Pauline Kruez was born on April 24, 1904 to Henry V. Kreuz & Sara A. Kreuz in Fostoria, Ohio. Joseph Schedel married Marie Kruez on January 14, 1928 in Crown Point, Indiana. Joe was living in Forest Ohio & Marie in Fostoria Ohio. An unverified story holds that Joe met Marie as she was hitchhiking to Fostoria. Another story asserts that the couple first met at a party in Illinois. After their marriage they lived in Fostoria or a short time with Marie’s parents until befriending Frederick Stiefler, who offered eventually offered to rent them rooms in the manor house, and they would never leave.
Mr. Schedel became a Naturalized Citizen of the United States of America on September 18, 1929. His American citizenship was something that he was extremely proud of. Joe worked hard to dispel myths and rumors that were being spread of him being a Nazi sympathizer in America during the World War II.
PROFESSIONAL & THE DOLITE COMPANY
Joe Schedel went to work for the Kelly’s Island Lime & Transport Company and eventually transferred to that company’s Clay Center, Ohio quarry. Formed in 1886 they became the world’s largest crushing plant. KILT owned 3,000 acres and operated 13 quarries. They closed all operations in the early 1960’s. Joe worked his way up the ranks and became Sales Manager of the Cleveland office. He helped develop an improved method for refining dolomitic limestone for more efficient steel production.
Joe Schedel resigned and took a year off to design and plan a new company. In 1936 J. J. Schedel, Samuel L. Rice & O. S. Slosser, formed The Dolite Company with a manufacturing plant in Gibsonburg and headquarters offices in Toledo. Sam Rice arranged the necessary financial backing and served as Vice President. O. S. Slosser served as secretary/treasurer until 1938 when he was succeeded by Charles Shuster. Joe Schedel built the Dolite Company into the exclusive manufacturer of refractory dolomitic limestone in the United States. Under Joe’s direction, the company became very successful at a time when the country was dramatically increasing steel production. Harold Hinrichs, the Schedel farm manager, met Henry Ford at a national Hereford cattle show and conversation turned to what the Dolite Company did. This meeting opened the door for the Dolite Company to sell dolomitic limestone to the Ford Motor Company’s steel production division. Soon there were caravans of Dolite Company trucks hauling limestone to Detroit. The success of the Dolite Company allowed Joe to purchase his partners’ interest in 1957, and also to find investment opportunities in other business endeavors. Part of the mining operations of the Dolite Company included White Star Quarry in Gibsonburg, Ohio, which had ceased operations in the late 1950’s. Dolite pumped the quarry dry with the intention of resuming mining. Dolite Company sales in 1965 were $3.5 million. In 1966 the Dolite Company was sold to the Charles Pfizer Company. Pfizer purchased the Gibsonburg Lime & Chemical Company, owned by Sanford and William Price at the same time. Pfizer donated White Star Quarry to the State of Ohio, which then leased 236 acres, in Jan 1975, to the Sandusky County Parks District to become White Star Park.
PORTAGE FARMS
During the 1940’s, Joe acquired 4 farms with over 500 acres of tilled land and an additional 280 acres of pasture around Woodville and Gibsonburg and named them Portage Farms. He hired Harold Hinrichs, an authority in hog breeding, to manage the farms and began to raise Chester White hogs in 1943 - both for show and breeding stock. The Schedel hogs were shown at numerous state fairs consistently winning blue ribbons and Best of Show honors. The farms annually held sales of their breeding stock, drawing buyers from all over the country. The entire herd of hogs was sold at auction in 1952. Portage Farms then began raising Hereford cattle in 1947, again winning numerous Grand Champion awards and a reputation as one the best breeders in the United States. In 1964 Portage Farms’ Registered Hereford Show Herd of 500 head of cattle was sold to H. Leroy Highbaugh of Highbaugh Farms, Louisville Kentucky. Portage Farms #2, #3 and #5 (450 acres) were sold to Creekwood Farms owned by Bill Price of Woodville in 1978. Mr. Price, the previous owner of Gibsonburg Lime and Chemical Company was both a business associate and competitor. Their relationship was tempestuous yet they remained friends.
Joe Schedel purchased the 90-acre Peninsula Poultry & Fruit Farm in Danbury Township in 1942. O.S. Slosser became manager, who later becomes a founding partner of the Dolite Company.
The home estate in Elmore was known as Portage Farm #1. Here the Schedels became Master Breeders & Licensed Propagators with the International Wild Waterfowl Association. Working closely with the Toledo Zoo, they raised many rare and endangered species such as Australian, South African, New Zealand & European Shell Ducks, Coscoroba & Mute Swans, Mandarian Ducks, Siberian & Magellan Geese, Widgeons & Pochards as well as numerous North American migratory waterfowl. Several breeds could no longer be imported from other countries, thus Portage Farms became the sole source for zoos and others to buy specimens in the United States. In 1962 there were 504 duck bands assigned to 60 breeds of Portage Farms waterfowl. The Schedels also raised pheasants and peafowl on the grounds. Two of the peacocks were named after actors Richard (Burton) & Elizabeth (Taylor) and produced many offspring, some of which were albino peacocks. They also had two birds that became ‘pets’ to Marie. One was a Crested Screamer from South America. So named because of its loud high-pitched call that could be heard a mile away. ‘The Boy’ as she fondly called it, came to live on the estate around 1975. It would allow Marie to pet it just like a cat or dog. Screamer had large spurs on its wings for defense and had partially webbed feet to allow it to swim. The other pet bird was a Crested Seriema, native to South America and nicknamed Brushy. It resembled the cartoon ‘Roadrunner’ and was also quite affectionate. In its native habitat it would pick up prey in its beak and thrash it violently against a hard surface to kill it. Marie’s Brushy would pick up a red rubber ball and bounce it on the curb of the driveway, then run after it only to repeat the same act over and again. The Schedels acquired a male & female Brushy through the Toledo Zoo. The pair successfully bred & built a nest in a lower tree circa 1971, however none of the eggs hatched.
INVESTMENTS
Mr. Schedel felt that it required the same amount of grain or grapes to make a bottle of bourbon or wine, therefore he saw them as a hedge against inflation. He invested in a quite extensive collection of wines and liquors from around the world. This is also intriguing because He was not a drinker, appreciating wine on only rare occasions. His collection was stored in the Cellar. With its 12” thick concrete ceiling & walls the Cellar was built as a ‘bomb shelter’ in case of disaster, something that was part of the Cold War mentality. The Cellar had its own water supply, ventilation system, beds, kitchen, bathroom, food and other provisions. It still exists today beneath the ‘bunkhouse’, which is behind the Trellis Gallery (garage). The Cellar also housed safes for storing the Schedel’s jewelry collection. The Schedel’s jade and bronze collections were stored there as well, when not on display in the manor house.
Joe Schedel believed that gems and jewelry were a sound investment, as well. He invested in the best, often during foreign travels. Even though Marie greatly disliked getting dressed up and wearing the jewels, she did so for Joe. The Rock was a diamond ring that Joe purchased from Harry Winston. A center diamond of 23.48 carats was a gem marquise brilliant cut, colorless and flawless set in platinum with 2 tapered baguttes of 2.48 carats each. Joe once said, “This diamond is more perfect than the one Richard Burton bought for Elizabeth Taylor.” A July 25, 1969 letter from Don Carnevale, Vice President of Harry Winston supported that opinion: “The rough stone of 178 carats from which your diamond was cut, was part of a purchase by us in September, 1968. In addition to your Marquise Diamond the rough stone also yielded a gem pear shape diamond. Quite an extraordinary feat to obtain two gemstones from a piece of rough this size. You may feel confident that your gem diamond is unusual. Stones of this size, color & quality are a rarity. It is no exaggeration to say that your Marquise Diamond is in the same class with the notable diamonds of the world.” (Purchased for $252,000)
In 1944 Joe purchased his first carvings of jade sculpture; a pair of spinach green birds of paradise, which are still on display in the manor house. He and Marie traveled to Hong Kong, Taiwan and Tokyo acquiring more pieces for their collection. The culmination of their collecting turned into ‘One of the world’s finest private collections of carved Chinese jade outside of China’. Mr. Schedel wanted to showcase his collection and collaborrated with E.F. Dutton to publish a book entitled ‘The Splendor of Jade’. A limited edition of 3,000 copies were printed in 1974.
In 1979 Joe purchased his first Chinese bronze. Collecting over 20 museum quality pieces, some 3500 years old, became a passion. He did extensive research on the pieces, reinforcing his information with metallurgical tests done by an emission spectrometry microscope at BGSU. Joe considered himself a collector of art more so than an investor. The bronzes were displayed in the Manor House.
CUBA
The Nicaro Nickel Company in Cuba was one that Joe Schedel invested in through the Dolite Company. His brother-in-law, Dr. Max Birner and his sister Olga immigrated to Cuba from Germany to help manage Joe’s Cuban mines. Max was a chemical engineer who patented and improved the method of refining nickel from ore. Joe Schedel also invested in silver and gold mines in Cuba, as well as a copper mine in Chile.
Joe Schedel purchased a 55’ wooden yacht, which he and Marie named the Dolita, with ports in Miami and Catawba Island. He often used his yacht to travel to Cuba. That was during an era when a lot of U.S. businesses were investing heavily in Cuba. Joe was so committed to doing business in Cuba that he had blueprints drawn and built a house there. Unfortunately all that suddenly and abruptly came to an end when Fidel Castro took power and expropriated all companies and private businesses in 1959. Theh Schedels lost all of their substantial investments made there. They were, however, able to secure the release of all of their American employees for safe return to the United States. Joe was devastated by such a huge loss of money but moved on and seldom spoke of the Cuba thereafter. For nearly 2 decades running, each winter he would drive to Florida to vacation rather than fly. He feared being hijacked to Cuba and not being allowed to leave because of his expertise in mining and previous investments there.
BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY
On August 26, 1967 Bowling Green State University conferred upon Joseph J. Schedel the Doctor of Public Service Degree for his entrepreneurial work in the manufacture of refractory dolomitic limestone for the steel industry, efforts in conservation and preservation of wildlife in Elmore and at the Toledo Zoo. For years BGSU desired a live Falcon mascot for the University. Discussions among then BGSU President William Jerome, Mel Block, Toledo Zoo Ornithologist and Dr. Joseph Schedel, a Zoo Board Member and Dr. Harold Tinnappel, BGSU Professor and friend of Schedel made it a reality in 1968. BGSU obtained the required capture and possession permits from both Ohio and Idaho, for up to 6 falcons. Dr Schedel offered to cover all the expenses of capturing the falcons. Biologist Gary Hickman of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service traveled to Snake River Canyon, Idaho in the summer of 1968 but was able to capture only a single tiercel (male) prairie falcon. Facilities were built at the Toledo Zoo and at Bowling Green to house the falcon. Prince Frederick was the name given to the falcon. The first Falconer was a student named John Blakeman of Fremont Ohio who spent hours caring for and training the falcon. Dr Schedel presented Prince Frederick to the University, students and alumni at Doyt Perry Field during a football game on September 20, 1968. Prince Frederick was shown at many events until a fatal respiratory ailment in 1970. BG acquired other falcons and hawks and flew them at events until 1974.
The U.S. Air Force Academy was the only other university to have a live falcon as a mascot.
TRAVEL
Joe and Marie traveled the world by ocean liners and airlines visiting some 120 countries. Most often they traveled for pleasure and sometimes on business. After they purchased the yacht Dolita, they often visited Cuba on business. They cruised the Caribbean Islands on board the Dolita, departing Miami and visiting 46 ports over the years. Jane (executive secretary) and Don Williams were on board from Dec 19, 1948 – June 03, 1949.
It was during visits to the Orient that the Schedel’s fell in love with the culture and art of the region. They purchased Persian rugs and redecorated the mansion with oriental wall coverings and furniture. That passion also led to the creation of the Japanese Garden in 1967.
THE FOUNDATION
The Schedel’s did not have children. As they dreamed, planned and created their estate they came to the desire that, upon their deaths, it continue in perpetuity for all to enjoy. Toward that desire they created the Joseph J. & Marie P. Schedel Foundation in 1968. Their desires were made well known and the steps to be taken upon their deaths outlined in some detail. Joe died in 1981 followed by Marie in 1989.
At that time in 1989, per the Schedel’s wishes, the foundation board of directors took responsibility for the estate and immediately began preparing for its opening to the public – which took place in 1991. Dr. T. Richard Fisher, a biologist from Bowling Green State University and consultant to Joe Schedel, was appointed the first executive director of what became known as The Schedel Arboretum & Gardens. Under Dr. Fisher’s guidance, the estate was transformed from a state of neglect and disrepair that occurred during the years subsequent to Joe Schedel’s death. Marie became heartbroken at that time and did not properly see to the upkeep of the estate. Dr. Fisher also planned and oversaw the planting of many ornamental trees on the grounds as well as the creation and planting of many of the annual plant beds that still exist today.
In 1997, Dr. Reginald Noble, also a biologist formerly of Bowling Green State University, succeeded Fisher to become the second executive director of the SA&G. Dr. Noble continued the program of expanding the arboretum and annual plant displays, establishing practices for the immaculate care provided by the staff and volunteers for all of the displays. Dr. Noble also built the framework for the recruitment of volunteers and recruited and/or stewarded many of the donors who so generously supported the foundation and its mission during his 12 year tenure and beyond. One of his greatest accomplishments was the fundraising and construction of the Brown Welcome Center which opened in 2009. The first event hosted there was the 50th wedding anniversary of him and his wife Sherry.
Rodney Noble, Dr. Noble’s son, succeeded his father as executive director in July 2009 and continues in that capacity today. Rod has carried on the traditions and legacy of the Schedels in much the same manner as his predecessors, working to ensure the quality of the gardens and the experience for visitors. During Rod’s tenure the focus was turned to educational opportunities and outreach and awareness activities designed to increase the number of individuals taking advantage of the special resource which is the SA&G. New fundraising events designed to entice people to the gardens – and thus to experience nature – who may not otherwise have taken the opportunity are among Rod’s accomplishments.
The original board of directors of the Schedel Foundation consisted of 5 members. That number was later expanded to 7, which is now the minimum number provided for in the bylaws. Directors represent a variety of geographic locations and professional backgrounds.
updated as of 11/10/2011 John Foster, Archivist, Schedel Foundation
Life & Times of Joseph John & Marie Pauline Schedel
THE ESTATE, BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
The property of the Schedel Arboretum & Gardens was originally owned by the founder of the Village of Elmore, Israel Harrington. It was sold around 1874 to Nathan Morse, then James Morse & finally to James’ children. Philip Smith, who became Mayor of Elmore, purchased some of the property for $5,700. He sold the property to Frederick Von Vultee, a dry goods & grocery store operator in Elmore. Von Vultee also purchased the Morse’s shares and built the brick manor house on the property in 1888. He also built a house across the road in 1905, supposedly because his family became too large for one house. The manor house underwent many renovations over the years. At one time a full porch adorned the front of the house. A fire that was started outside to eradicate honeysuckle in 1934 threatened the house which was ultimately saved by Elmore’s first, and newly acquired fire pumper. After Frederick & Anna Von Vultee moved to Los Angeles, California, Frederick Walter Stiefler, who was married to the Von Vultee’s daughter Mathilda (Tillie), moved into the Manor House.
In 1931 Mr. Stiefler offered to rent the newlywed Joe and Marie Schedel the maid’s quarters in the manor house. The Schedels immediately fell in love with the ‘estate’ and began to dream of its potential. After Fred Stiefler moved to Beverly Hills, California, the Schedels desired a more stable tenancy and at that time signed a 99 year lease for the property. They began to design and landscape with rare trees and shrubs, digging the lakes and raising waterfowl. A breeding duck pen was constructed on the upper lake for year-around propagation operations. Joe began purchasing several homes and farmland adjacent to the estate. It wasn’t until 1969 that Joe and Marie exercised an option in their lease contract and purchased the estate. Over the years other renovations included deepening the lakes and in 1958 constructing, and later enlarging, a small 5 room cottage - affectionately nicknamed the Shack - overlooking the lower of the two lakes. Constructed of cedar with a copper roof, the Shack was essentially home for Joe & Marie, as they seldom occupied the larger manor house.
The property originally consisted of approximately 81 acres. Work on construction of the Ohio Turnpike began in 1945. The State of Ohio acquired 19 acres of the estate bisecting the property. Joe Schedel fought the acquisition by the state and while unsuccessful in having the highway rerouted around his land, was able to obtain some concessions – in addition to monetary compensation – as part of the deal. The road in front of the manor house was relocated away about 500 feet, thanks in part to the County Commissioners who filed a lawsuit. An access road was built under the Portage River Turnpike overpass to allow access to the rest of the property that was bisected by the new roadway. The excavated dirt from the turnpike was used to heighten and reinforce the dike along the Portage River to protect the lower part of the estate from flooding. The Ohio Turnpike opened to the public in 1955.
PERSONAL
Joseph Johann Albert Ignatz Schedel was born on July 15, 1895 to Josef Schedel (05/11/1869 – 08/16/1939) and Lina Scharfel Schedel (08/19/1871 - 12/07/1947) in Freiburg, Germany. He was one of nine children. His family operated a limestone quarrying business called Schedel Steinwekre located in Greding Germany.
Joe Schedel graduated from the Engineering College of Strelitz Alt, Germany in 1912. Having great engineering interest in the Panama Canal, Joe traveled to Central America in 1913 to view the canal and learn of the workings of the locks. World War I commenced in 1914 and Joe, concerned about his draft status, chose to seek employment in Panama. He resided in Panama until about 1920 working as a surveyor and civil engineer. While there he learned to speak fluent Spanish. That would be great benefit later in his Cuban business ventures.
Seeking employment in the United States, Joe Schedel traveled to Missouri, Illinois and eventually Ohio working as a civil engineer and design consultant. During that period, Joe designed plant floor plans and machinery layouts to accomplish a company’s objectives and improve efficiency and profitability. He became fluent in the English language without any formal education. He reportedly learned some of the finer points of English from an Elmore native, Neil Miller. In later years he allegedly refused to converse in his native language with guests from Germany, insisting instead that English was his preferred language. Joe lived in Aurora, Illinois as well as Columbus, Forest, Zanesville, Fostoria and finally settled in Elmore Ohio. After settling in Elmore, he was employed in a tile & brick factory. During that experience, Joe discovered an improved method for making firebrick that was used to line steel blast furnaces. This solidified his reputation as an innovative engineer and his services became sought after, allowing him to pursue further study of engineering and mining.
Marie Pauline Kruez was born on April 24, 1904 to Henry V. Kreuz & Sara A. Kreuz in Fostoria, Ohio. Joseph Schedel married Marie Kruez on January 14, 1928 in Crown Point, Indiana. Joe was living in Forest Ohio & Marie in Fostoria Ohio. An unverified story holds that Joe met Marie as she was hitchhiking to Fostoria. Another story asserts that the couple first met at a party in Illinois. After their marriage they lived in Fostoria or a short time with Marie’s parents until befriending Frederick Stiefler, who offered eventually offered to rent them rooms in the manor house, and they would never leave.
Mr. Schedel became a Naturalized Citizen of the United States of America on September 18, 1929. His American citizenship was something that he was extremely proud of. Joe worked hard to dispel myths and rumors that were being spread of him being a Nazi sympathizer in America during the World War II.
PROFESSIONAL & THE DOLITE COMPANY
Joe Schedel went to work for the Kelly’s Island Lime & Transport Company and eventually transferred to that company’s Clay Center, Ohio quarry. Formed in 1886 they became the world’s largest crushing plant. KILT owned 3,000 acres and operated 13 quarries. They closed all operations in the early 1960’s. Joe worked his way up the ranks and became Sales Manager of the Cleveland office. He helped develop an improved method for refining dolomitic limestone for more efficient steel production.
Joe Schedel resigned and took a year off to design and plan a new company. In 1936 J. J. Schedel, Samuel L. Rice & O. S. Slosser, formed The Dolite Company with a manufacturing plant in Gibsonburg and headquarters offices in Toledo. Sam Rice arranged the necessary financial backing and served as Vice President. O. S. Slosser served as secretary/treasurer until 1938 when he was succeeded by Charles Shuster. Joe Schedel built the Dolite Company into the exclusive manufacturer of refractory dolomitic limestone in the United States. Under Joe’s direction, the company became very successful at a time when the country was dramatically increasing steel production. Harold Hinrichs, the Schedel farm manager, met Henry Ford at a national Hereford cattle show and conversation turned to what the Dolite Company did. This meeting opened the door for the Dolite Company to sell dolomitic limestone to the Ford Motor Company’s steel production division. Soon there were caravans of Dolite Company trucks hauling limestone to Detroit. The success of the Dolite Company allowed Joe to purchase his partners’ interest in 1957, and also to find investment opportunities in other business endeavors. Part of the mining operations of the Dolite Company included White Star Quarry in Gibsonburg, Ohio, which had ceased operations in the late 1950’s. Dolite pumped the quarry dry with the intention of resuming mining. Dolite Company sales in 1965 were $3.5 million. In 1966 the Dolite Company was sold to the Charles Pfizer Company. Pfizer purchased the Gibsonburg Lime & Chemical Company, owned by Sanford and William Price at the same time. Pfizer donated White Star Quarry to the State of Ohio, which then leased 236 acres, in Jan 1975, to the Sandusky County Parks District to become White Star Park.
PORTAGE FARMS
During the 1940’s, Joe acquired 4 farms with over 500 acres of tilled land and an additional 280 acres of pasture around Woodville and Gibsonburg and named them Portage Farms. He hired Harold Hinrichs, an authority in hog breeding, to manage the farms and began to raise Chester White hogs in 1943 - both for show and breeding stock. The Schedel hogs were shown at numerous state fairs consistently winning blue ribbons and Best of Show honors. The farms annually held sales of their breeding stock, drawing buyers from all over the country. The entire herd of hogs was sold at auction in 1952. Portage Farms then began raising Hereford cattle in 1947, again winning numerous Grand Champion awards and a reputation as one the best breeders in the United States. In 1964 Portage Farms’ Registered Hereford Show Herd of 500 head of cattle was sold to H. Leroy Highbaugh of Highbaugh Farms, Louisville Kentucky. Portage Farms #2, #3 and #5 (450 acres) were sold to Creekwood Farms owned by Bill Price of Woodville in 1978. Mr. Price, the previous owner of Gibsonburg Lime and Chemical Company was both a business associate and competitor. Their relationship was tempestuous yet they remained friends.
Joe Schedel purchased the 90-acre Peninsula Poultry & Fruit Farm in Danbury Township in 1942. O.S. Slosser became manager, who later becomes a founding partner of the Dolite Company.
The home estate in Elmore was known as Portage Farm #1. Here the Schedels became Master Breeders & Licensed Propagators with the International Wild Waterfowl Association. Working closely with the Toledo Zoo, they raised many rare and endangered species such as Australian, South African, New Zealand & European Shell Ducks, Coscoroba & Mute Swans, Mandarian Ducks, Siberian & Magellan Geese, Widgeons & Pochards as well as numerous North American migratory waterfowl. Several breeds could no longer be imported from other countries, thus Portage Farms became the sole source for zoos and others to buy specimens in the United States. In 1962 there were 504 duck bands assigned to 60 breeds of Portage Farms waterfowl. The Schedels also raised pheasants and peafowl on the grounds. Two of the peacocks were named after actors Richard (Burton) & Elizabeth (Taylor) and produced many offspring, some of which were albino peacocks. They also had two birds that became ‘pets’ to Marie. One was a Crested Screamer from South America. So named because of its loud high-pitched call that could be heard a mile away. ‘The Boy’ as she fondly called it, came to live on the estate around 1975. It would allow Marie to pet it just like a cat or dog. Screamer had large spurs on its wings for defense and had partially webbed feet to allow it to swim. The other pet bird was a Crested Seriema, native to South America and nicknamed Brushy. It resembled the cartoon ‘Roadrunner’ and was also quite affectionate. In its native habitat it would pick up prey in its beak and thrash it violently against a hard surface to kill it. Marie’s Brushy would pick up a red rubber ball and bounce it on the curb of the driveway, then run after it only to repeat the same act over and again. The Schedels acquired a male & female Brushy through the Toledo Zoo. The pair successfully bred & built a nest in a lower tree circa 1971, however none of the eggs hatched.
INVESTMENTS
Mr. Schedel felt that it required the same amount of grain or grapes to make a bottle of bourbon or wine, therefore he saw them as a hedge against inflation. He invested in a quite extensive collection of wines and liquors from around the world. This is also intriguing because He was not a drinker, appreciating wine on only rare occasions. His collection was stored in the Cellar. With its 12” thick concrete ceiling & walls the Cellar was built as a ‘bomb shelter’ in case of disaster, something that was part of the Cold War mentality. The Cellar had its own water supply, ventilation system, beds, kitchen, bathroom, food and other provisions. It still exists today beneath the ‘bunkhouse’, which is behind the Trellis Gallery (garage). The Cellar also housed safes for storing the Schedel’s jewelry collection. The Schedel’s jade and bronze collections were stored there as well, when not on display in the manor house.
Joe Schedel believed that gems and jewelry were a sound investment, as well. He invested in the best, often during foreign travels. Even though Marie greatly disliked getting dressed up and wearing the jewels, she did so for Joe. The Rock was a diamond ring that Joe purchased from Harry Winston. A center diamond of 23.48 carats was a gem marquise brilliant cut, colorless and flawless set in platinum with 2 tapered baguttes of 2.48 carats each. Joe once said, “This diamond is more perfect than the one Richard Burton bought for Elizabeth Taylor.” A July 25, 1969 letter from Don Carnevale, Vice President of Harry Winston supported that opinion: “The rough stone of 178 carats from which your diamond was cut, was part of a purchase by us in September, 1968. In addition to your Marquise Diamond the rough stone also yielded a gem pear shape diamond. Quite an extraordinary feat to obtain two gemstones from a piece of rough this size. You may feel confident that your gem diamond is unusual. Stones of this size, color & quality are a rarity. It is no exaggeration to say that your Marquise Diamond is in the same class with the notable diamonds of the world.” (Purchased for $252,000)
In 1944 Joe purchased his first carvings of jade sculpture; a pair of spinach green birds of paradise, which are still on display in the manor house. He and Marie traveled to Hong Kong, Taiwan and Tokyo acquiring more pieces for their collection. The culmination of their collecting turned into ‘One of the world’s finest private collections of carved Chinese jade outside of China’. Mr. Schedel wanted to showcase his collection and collaborrated with E.F. Dutton to publish a book entitled ‘The Splendor of Jade’. A limited edition of 3,000 copies were printed in 1974.
In 1979 Joe purchased his first Chinese bronze. Collecting over 20 museum quality pieces, some 3500 years old, became a passion. He did extensive research on the pieces, reinforcing his information with metallurgical tests done by an emission spectrometry microscope at BGSU. Joe considered himself a collector of art more so than an investor. The bronzes were displayed in the Manor House.
CUBA
The Nicaro Nickel Company in Cuba was one that Joe Schedel invested in through the Dolite Company. His brother-in-law, Dr. Max Birner and his sister Olga immigrated to Cuba from Germany to help manage Joe’s Cuban mines. Max was a chemical engineer who patented and improved the method of refining nickel from ore. Joe Schedel also invested in silver and gold mines in Cuba, as well as a copper mine in Chile.
Joe Schedel purchased a 55’ wooden yacht, which he and Marie named the Dolita, with ports in Miami and Catawba Island. He often used his yacht to travel to Cuba. That was during an era when a lot of U.S. businesses were investing heavily in Cuba. Joe was so committed to doing business in Cuba that he had blueprints drawn and built a house there. Unfortunately all that suddenly and abruptly came to an end when Fidel Castro took power and expropriated all companies and private businesses in 1959. Theh Schedels lost all of their substantial investments made there. They were, however, able to secure the release of all of their American employees for safe return to the United States. Joe was devastated by such a huge loss of money but moved on and seldom spoke of the Cuba thereafter. For nearly 2 decades running, each winter he would drive to Florida to vacation rather than fly. He feared being hijacked to Cuba and not being allowed to leave because of his expertise in mining and previous investments there.
BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY
On August 26, 1967 Bowling Green State University conferred upon Joseph J. Schedel the Doctor of Public Service Degree for his entrepreneurial work in the manufacture of refractory dolomitic limestone for the steel industry, efforts in conservation and preservation of wildlife in Elmore and at the Toledo Zoo. For years BGSU desired a live Falcon mascot for the University. Discussions among then BGSU President William Jerome, Mel Block, Toledo Zoo Ornithologist and Dr. Joseph Schedel, a Zoo Board Member and Dr. Harold Tinnappel, BGSU Professor and friend of Schedel made it a reality in 1968. BGSU obtained the required capture and possession permits from both Ohio and Idaho, for up to 6 falcons. Dr Schedel offered to cover all the expenses of capturing the falcons. Biologist Gary Hickman of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service traveled to Snake River Canyon, Idaho in the summer of 1968 but was able to capture only a single tiercel (male) prairie falcon. Facilities were built at the Toledo Zoo and at Bowling Green to house the falcon. Prince Frederick was the name given to the falcon. The first Falconer was a student named John Blakeman of Fremont Ohio who spent hours caring for and training the falcon. Dr Schedel presented Prince Frederick to the University, students and alumni at Doyt Perry Field during a football game on September 20, 1968. Prince Frederick was shown at many events until a fatal respiratory ailment in 1970. BG acquired other falcons and hawks and flew them at events until 1974.
The U.S. Air Force Academy was the only other university to have a live falcon as a mascot.
TRAVEL
Joe and Marie traveled the world by ocean liners and airlines visiting some 120 countries. Most often they traveled for pleasure and sometimes on business. After they purchased the yacht Dolita, they often visited Cuba on business. They cruised the Caribbean Islands on board the Dolita, departing Miami and visiting 46 ports over the years. Jane (executive secretary) and Don Williams were on board from Dec 19, 1948 – June 03, 1949.
It was during visits to the Orient that the Schedel’s fell in love with the culture and art of the region. They purchased Persian rugs and redecorated the mansion with oriental wall coverings and furniture. That passion also led to the creation of the Japanese Garden in 1967.
THE FOUNDATION
The Schedel’s did not have children. As they dreamed, planned and created their estate they came to the desire that, upon their deaths, it continue in perpetuity for all to enjoy. Toward that desire they created the Joseph J. & Marie P. Schedel Foundation in 1968. Their desires were made well known and the steps to be taken upon their deaths outlined in some detail. Joe died in 1981 followed by Marie in 1989.
At that time in 1989, per the Schedel’s wishes, the foundation board of directors took responsibility for the estate and immediately began preparing for its opening to the public – which took place in 1991. Dr. T. Richard Fisher, a biologist from Bowling Green State University and consultant to Joe Schedel, was appointed the first executive director of what became known as The Schedel Arboretum & Gardens. Under Dr. Fisher’s guidance, the estate was transformed from a state of neglect and disrepair that occurred during the years subsequent to Joe Schedel’s death. Marie became heartbroken at that time and did not properly see to the upkeep of the estate. Dr. Fisher also planned and oversaw the planting of many ornamental trees on the grounds as well as the creation and planting of many of the annual plant beds that still exist today.
In 1997, Dr. Reginald Noble, also a biologist formerly of Bowling Green State University, succeeded Fisher to become the second executive director of the SA&G. Dr. Noble continued the program of expanding the arboretum and annual plant displays, establishing practices for the immaculate care provided by the staff and volunteers for all of the displays. Dr. Noble also built the framework for the recruitment of volunteers and recruited and/or stewarded many of the donors who so generously supported the foundation and its mission during his 12 year tenure and beyond. One of his greatest accomplishments was the fundraising and construction of the Brown Welcome Center which opened in 2009. The first event hosted there was the 50th wedding anniversary of him and his wife Sherry.
Rodney Noble, Dr. Noble’s son, succeeded his father as executive director in July 2009 and continues in that capacity today. Rod has carried on the traditions and legacy of the Schedels in much the same manner as his predecessors, working to ensure the quality of the gardens and the experience for visitors. During Rod’s tenure the focus was turned to educational opportunities and outreach and awareness activities designed to increase the number of individuals taking advantage of the special resource which is the SA&G. New fundraising events designed to entice people to the gardens – and thus to experience nature – who may not otherwise have taken the opportunity are among Rod’s accomplishments.
The original board of directors of the Schedel Foundation consisted of 5 members. That number was later expanded to 7, which is now the minimum number provided for in the bylaws. Directors represent a variety of geographic locations and professional backgrounds.
updated as of 11/10/2011 John Foster, Archivist, Schedel Foundation
