Butler County, Ohio - The whole text, 1882 (part 27 of 39)

John F. Rader was born June 25, 1842, in Franklin County, Ohio. He was the son of Frederick Rader, born in 1803 in Germany, and Mary Welch, born in 1817 in Ohio. They are now living in this county, having come here from Van Wert County in 1879. John F. Rader was married in Delaware County, December 13, 1866, to Josephine Lewis, daughter of Morgan S. Lewis and Mary Shoemaker, the former born in 1826 in New York State, and the latter in Ohio in 1828. Their daughter was born in Warren County, October 12, 1848. Mr. and Mrs. Rader have had six children. Thomas J. was born October 4, 1867; Jenny L., July 7, 1869; Mary L., September 7, 1871; Frederick M., September 20, 1873 ; John William, February 5, 1876; and Jane Louisa, June 17, 1879. The first child was born in Delaware County, and the last in Butler County, the others in Van Wert County. Mrs. Rader's parents have also moved to this county, coming here October, 1878. John F. Rader was a private in Captain Kimball's company, G, Ninety-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He enlisted June 12, 1862, and was engaged in the battles of Yazoo Swamp, Arkansas Post, Port Hudson, Island No. 10, siege of Vicksburg, Jackson, Mississippi, Banks's expedition to the Red River, and a great many others. He served until the end of the war, and was honorably discharged at Columbus, Ohio, August 20, 1865, then returning to his farm, where he still is.

9, 1846. He was married on the 8th of June, 1869, at Hamilton, to Hannah 8S. Beckett, who was born June 1, 1850. Her parents, James Beckett and Elizabeth Hill, came to this county at an early period, and are now both dead. Mr. and Mrs. Riley have had five children." John Sheldon was born April 26, 1872; Minnie, October 30, - 1873; Myrtle Gertrude, January 11, 1876; James Elmer, September 1, 1878; and William Henry, March 22, 1880. Minnie died on the 30th of November, 1875. Mr. Riley's uncle Joshua was in the War of 1812, and he had a brother in the war of the Rebellion. He was a member of the Third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served about two years, then being killed in the battle of Perryville. Mr. Riley is a farmer and stock-raiser, and has made a specialty of the latter.

Henry C. Settle, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in North Carolina, May 5, 1838. His parents, Josiah Settle and Nancy A. Settle, were natives of that State, where they were born, the former in November, 1799, and the latter in July, 1819. They came to Ohio from Mississippi in 1856, arriving here on the 20th of March.

Henry C. Settle was married in Hamilton on the 26th of March, 1868, to Molly O. Berry, who was born in Mississippi, November 15, 1850. They have four children. Arta A. was born May 26, 1869; Charles H., August 1, 1872; James T., August 9, 1874; and John C., November 22, 1877. Mr. Settle was a carpenter's mate on board the General Bragg, of the gulf squadron, for two years, and was engaged in a good many battles of the war. Thomas Berry was the colonel of a Mexican regiment in the Mexican War. Mr. Settle owns one hundred and eight acres of land on Section 13.

Robert P. Settle was born in South Carolina, on the 29th of July, 1834, and came to this county in 1856, from Mississippi. His wife, Lizzie Weaver, was born February 29, 1838, in North Carolina, and was married to him December 28, 1864. They have one child, Nancy, born September 29, 1867. Mrs. Settle's parents were Bird Weaver and Sarah Day. Mr. Settle was for two years supervisor, and is a farmer and stock-raiser.

William E. Stewart, farmer, was born in Harrison, Pennsylvania, in 1860. He is the son of John and Lucy Stewart. He settled in this county in 1868.

Henry Stahlheber was born in Bavaria, Germany, June 10, 1820, his parents being Henry and Elizabeth Stahlheber. He came to this country in 1850, having previously been married to Elizabeth Keepenbacken, daughter of Philip and Philippine. They came to this county in 1874, and both are now living. She was born September, 1825, and their marriage was in March, 1846. They have had eight children. Philip was born September 18, 1849; Michael, September 1851; Henry, August 11, 1853; John, September 1, 1855; Elizabeth, June 18, 1858; Philippine, June 11, 1860; Charles, December, 1863; and Jacob, April 16, 1866. Mr. Stahlheber has now lived in the county thirty-one years, and has by industry accumulated considerable property. He owns two good farms, one containing one hundred and sixty-three acres, and the other a hundred and sixty acres. One of these is situated about a quarter of a mile from Hamilton, and the other about three miles. He carries on the dairy business in connection with his farms very extensively, now milking forty cows, and finding ready sale for all he makes.

Jacob Vitzedom, son of Daniel, was a native of Germany, being born there on the 26th of October, 1801. He came to this county in 1845, and on the 19th of July, 1846, was married, in Hamilton, to Catherine Sohn, also born in Germany. Her parents were John Lewis Sohn and Catherine Davison, and she was born February 15, 1821. Mr. and Mrs. Vitzedom had eight children. Barbara was born June, 18, 1847, and died the next October. John J. was born March 20, 1849, and died in 1851; Elizabeth B. was born August 19, 1851; John William, December 12, 1853; John Jacob, February 7, 1855; George William, September 8, 1857; John Lewis, January 17, 1859; and William Martin, No- vember 10, 1862. The last named died in 1867. Mr. Vitzedom died on the 2d of November 1875, leaving a good farm for his widow and surviving children. Leonhard Wasserman was born in Germany, February 18, 1820. His parents were John Conrad Wasserman and Barbara Wolferd. Mr. Wasserman settled in this county in 1847, and was married two years after, or in August, 1849, at Hamilton, to Maria Gailey, daughter of Balser Gailey and Mary Yeakle. They were early settlers, and are now both dead. Mrs. Wasserman was born in Fairfield Township, April 12, 1832. They have had ten children. Mary was born April 29, 1850; Elizabeth, April 19, 1852; Jacob, May 5, 1854; Henry, March 26, 1856; Sarah, July 18, 1858; Joseph, March 6, 1860; Clara, October 9, 1862; Julia, March 8, 1864;

William Yerein was born in Fairfield Township, Butler County, February 14, 1825. He was the son of Frederick Yerein and Matilda McCain. His father came here in 1814, and is still living William Yerein was married in May, 1855, to Hannah Yerein, and has had eight children: James M. was born February 9, 1856; Miller, in the Fall of 1858; Harriet, in 1860; Anna, in 1862; William, May 16, 1864; Ira Bell, July, 1866; Elizabeth D., in the Fall of 1868, and Florain the Winter of 1875. Miller, Harriet, and Anna are dead. Mr. Yerein is a farmer. One of his uncles was in the Revolutionary War.

Morgan as well as its present territory. It was organized in 1803, forming one of the original subdivisions of the county. Morgan Township was struck off of the west end in 1811. There are in its limits 19,496 acres. The population of the township in 1820 was sixteen hundred and sixty-five; 1830, seventeen hundred and forty-five; 1840, fifteen hundred and twenty-six. Since its organization up to 1844, the following persons have been justices of the peace; their names will also show to a very great extent who the prominent early settlers were: :

In 1803, William Mitchell ; 1805, Maxwell Parkinson; 1806, William Mitchell; 1807, Emanuel Vantrees and William Smith; 1808, George Isaminger and Maxwell Parkinson ; 1810, Robert Smith; 1811, John Dunn; 1812, William D. Jones; 1814, John Dunn; 1815, William -D. Jones; 1816, John McCloskey; 1817, Robert Anderson; 1818, John Knox; 1818, Nehemiah Wade and John McCloskey; 1821, John Knox; 1822, same; 1824, James Comstock; 1825, Isaac Morris, John McCloskey; 1827, James Comstock; 1828, James Hill and John McCloskey; 1830, James Comstock; 1831, Griffin Halstead and James Hill; 1832, Allen Fuller ; 1834, Samuel B. Demoret and Abraham Bercaw; 1835, Fergus Anderson; 1836, Isaac Anderson; 1837, James Hill and William Ray; 1838, William J. Elliott ; 1840, James Hill, William Ray, and Enoch Larison; 1841, William J. Elliott; 1843, James Hill and Jonathan Kilbourn. After 1844 they wére Griffin Halstead, Elijah Butterfield, William C. Woodruff, Alex. J. Lutes, Michael Hawk, A. G. McKeon, Robert Joyce, Reily

Topography And Geography

For the most part the township is rolling. All that portion of the township lying east of Indian Creek is well adapted to farming. The general elevation is about seventy-five feet above the river. Sections 1 and 12 are quite rugged. The greater part of the remaining township is elevated above the Miami from one to two hundred feet. A range of hills extends almost the whole distance from Layhigh to the south side of the county.

Indian Creek is the principal stream, which flows diagonally from north-west to south-east, but which in some places has a southerly course. This stream takes its name from the fact that away back in 'ye olden days" the Indians camped on its banks a good deal. There are no tributaries flowing into Indian Creek of' any considerable size in this township. Zeigler's Run, however, unites with it a short distance below Millville. Tn the south-west, Dry Run, which heads near Layhigh, flows in a south-easterly direction and empties into the Miami. This stream takes its name because it is dry most of the time at its mouth. It is spanned in several places by good bridges. Paddy's Run enters the township about one mile and a quarter from the county line, flowing directly south, emptying into the Miami one mile below New Baltimore, in Hamilton County.

The soil along these streams is exceedingly fertile. On both sides of Indian Creek large bottoms spread out, which in the Summer months form a beautiful landscape. The bottoms of Paddy's Run are of less importance.

Ross

Ross Township was rich in the original growth of her timber. Poplar, oak, buckeye, ash, walnut, sycamore, hickory, wild cherry, gum, sugar-tree, sassafras, and dogwood grew spontaneously. A very large portion of the ereek and river bottoms were covered with spice and hazel bushes, wild gooseberry bushes, black currants, which in some places spread over several acres, pawpaw bushes, wild onions, pea-vines, thistles, briers, burrs, and weeds. This growth was so dense in some places as to make it impassable. And here lived all manner of game. The hunter liked best of all the deer or wild turkey. Both abounded here in the beginning of this century. Along the Miami, wild geese and brant, as well as ducks and other water-fowl, lived by the thousands. In the woods were pheasants, quails, squirrels, foxes, wolves, and all their neighbors... It was the general custom of the people for many years to spend a portion of every Fall in hunting. The Miami was also full of fish, immense quantities of which were taken in nets or drag seines made of brush.

The most prominent of all the early roads was the Trace road, passing through Layhigh and on to the Miami, much as the road now does. Another road, which was of considerable note, is now the Venice and Millville road. Paddy's Run road ran from Hamilton to New London. The road as it now is passes over pretty much the same road-bed. The Lawrenceburg and Columbus, or State road, leading from the former of these places in Indiana to the capital of Ohio, was in constant use in 1811. It followed the ridges so as to prevent cuts - a plan the early surveyors often used to great advantage in locating highways through a new country. In 1808 there were very few houses between Millville and Hamilton. One stood where Robert Dick now lives. Another was known as Sutherland's, on the upper road or pike, and stood where the toll-gate now is. Both of these houses are standing.

The Jackson School District, No. 2, began with a log-house in 1811, which stood near where Joseph Timberman now resides. About 1820 the district proper had its beginning in a second log-house on the hill. In 1873 a third house was built by John Timberman, a good brick, which is now in use. Among the scholars of the 1820 house were John and Peggy Maze. William Harmey was one of the teachers.

Among the first voting precincts in Ross Township was Judge Knox's, near the bank of Indian Creek, one mile above the iron bridge. This place of voting was in existence from 1820 to 1835. A man by the name of Smith was an early settler in this region, and owned the farm on which Judge Knox afterwards lived. Smith had a still-house here,

In 1811 Thomas Moorehead opened for his family a burying-ground on the east side of Indian Creek, one mile below Millville. This place of interment was among the first in the township. The yard is now overgrown with briers and bushes. There is another very old yard on the farm now owned by Mr. Hoover, of Venice, on the left bank of Indian Creek, near the Miami, which was established in the year 1811. This yard is now in a very bad condition - without fences, overgrown with briers, bushes, and left to take care of itself, apparently.

One of the first blacksmiths in Ross carried on his business near the iron bridge over Indian Creek. He was soon followed by another, on the hill one mile above, on the State road.

Christopher Timberman was an early mechanic in the neighborhood of School District No. 2, in 1811. He was a native of Pennsylvania, coming here from Tennessee; and during his life, which ended at eighty-eight years, made many spinning-wheels, chairs, bedsteads, and such like for the people of this valley. He is buried at the Moorehead grave-yard. His son, Christopher, died at the age of eighty-seven years.

Many fine farms now in this township were paid for with money made in manufacturing whisky. There was no disgrace attached to its manufacture. Two men by the name of Sayres and Avery, of Cincinnati, entered the western half of Section 15, and bought enough more to reach four hundred acres.in 1810, or thereabouts, and erected a still-house. This distillery was afterwards rented by Andrew Lintner, who worked it for a while.

Matthew Timberman was a distiller in the township in 1815, where Andrew Timberman now lives. When this establishment first began the manufacture of whisky, their corn was ground at Dick's mill, on the Miami, and Van Horne's mill, at Millville. After several years, the profits were found to be much larger if the corn was ground at home; hence the change was made. The whisky was hauled to Cincinnati in four and six horse wagons, and often with as many oxen, though the latter were not so easily managed, especially during " fly-time."

James Comstock carried on distilling on Dry Run, above Venice, fronr 1820 to 1840. Joseph Van Horne had a still-house in Millville about 1818. The distillery was superintended by Mr. Wilcox. This establishment continued for about twenty-five years. Balser Gailey's still-house, on the Wickard farm, now owned by the heirs of John Crawford, was in operation in 1831. There were other and more prominent establishments scattered throughout the township.

About 1840 Samuel Dick built a grist and saw mill, one mile below Millville, on Indian Creek. This mill was burned in a few years. The sawing department was rebuilt by Dick. The grinding department continued for a dozen or fifteen years. Captain Michael Hawk afterwards owned the mill. Jacob Shafer was the head miller under Hawk.

Judge John Dunn was an early settler on Indian Creek, near the wooden bridge which crosses the stream. He was here in 1811. He entered a large tract of land in this vicinity, which he sold out to those who followed. Near Andrew Timberman's an old settler lived by the name of William Morris. Daniel Rumple, from one of the Carolinas, bought out John Elliott (who removed to the country of the Wabash), and took up his residence in the eastern side of the township at an early day.

It would be a difficult matter for a writer of local history to tell which of the two mills, Van Horne's at Millville, or Dick's at or near Venice, has been the most serviceable to the country at large. Both were built about the same time, the former in 1805 by Joel Williams, and the latter by Jacob Hyde. The first mill at Dick's was of round hickory logs, and contained what was known as a corn-cracker for the grinding machinery. Some five or six years after the mill was built it passed into the hands of Samuel Baxter. About 1812 Samuel Dick, Sen., and his son, George, purchased the property and erected the first frame the same year. This house was forty by forty feet and three stories high. Samuel Dick in the course of time released his interest in favor of his son, George. The property remained in his family until 1856. In 1848 one of the sons of George Dick, Samuel, Jr., erected the present frame, forty by fortyfive feet, and three stories high. Samuel Dick, a brother of George Dick, and his son, G. W. Dick, bought the property in 1856. About 1875 G. W. Dick, the present owner, came into possession of the property, since which time the mill has been actively at work.

There have been many changes in the mill since it was built at this site ie eaters of a century ago. For many years the extensive and productive country which surrounds it has called here to have its wheat, corn, and buckwheat ground. For many years there has also been a good saw-mill in continual use. The site is admirably adapted to a successful business.

Dick's mill was for a good many years used as a postoffice. The original ford for the entire north-western part of the county, and a large area of country in Indiana, made Dick's Ford a crossing-point. The Legislature, in the year 1880, passed a law to incorporate the Venice and Colerain Bridge Company, and gave Enoch Bond, Giles Richards, James Comstock, i Shaw, Tsaac Beech, and Nehemiah Wade power to erect and build a toll- pai across the Miami at or near Venice. Immediately after the bridge was erected, which was, no doubt, in 1824 and 1825, the ford ceased to be used except for very ordinary purposes.

Venice

Venice was laid out by Dr. Benjamin Clark, February 1, 1817. The founder of this place called it es Wenus" because it was so pleasantly situated, having beautiful surroundings, and well located for 1 rapid and mature growth. Clark, however, laid out only the western half of the village, his east line extending as far as where the Layhigh road now is. The eastern part of the town is mostly additions made by various men at different times. Dr. Clark gave an acre of ground, when the town was platted, for burial purposes. This ground was located immediately opposite the Presbyterian church, just north of the Odd Fellows' Hall.

Dr. John Woods was an early resident of '' Venus." He practiced medicine throughout the country. Dr. Clark was also active in the same profession. Dr. Woods lived in the house now occupied: by Frank Ochs. Daniel Hawk took up his residence in the village more than fifty years ago. He has remained here most of the time since; but was born on Indian Creek, above Millville. The Butterfields and Shaws were here very early; also the Boals and Daniel Haldeman. In 1816 Isaac Lutes was a blacksmith near Dick's mill, near where his son Alexander now resides. Lutes was the only blacksmith ever at this point. James Comstock built the store now occupied by Moorehead, which is one of the oldest houses in town, about 1820. Comstock was a justice of the peace for several years. He sold out his property and remoyed to the West. Enoch Vaughn -was here as a store-keeper in the Comstock house many years ago. Jonathan Kilburn was engaged in the same business as early as 1850. Thomas and Anderson Boal were here engaged in mercantile pursuits in 1850. Dr. Woods was a successful tavern- keeper in his time. Lloyd Reese was here in a similar occupation in 1840, in the house now occupied by Ochs. Reese is now a resident of Kansas. Allen Fuller carried on the same business in '' Venus" not less than a quarter of a century since. William Huxford and his son Charles were probably the first blacksmiths in the village. Campbell, Andrews, and David Timberman were also here quite early. James Hannah succeeded Huxford. One of the most permanent of all the blacksmiths who have made Venice a place of business is Thomas Joyce.

When the public lands were first offered for sale in Cincinnati, in 1801, Jeremiah Butterfield, an enterprising young man from Massachusetts, who had _ shortly before come to what was then Fort Washington, and who had assisted Colonel Ludlow to run the boundary line between the United States and the Indian tribes, formed a company with Esquire Shaw and his son Alvin, Asa Harvey, and Noah Willey to make investments in lands. They bought at the first sales two full sections, and as many fractional sections, beginning at the mouth of Indian Creek and extending down the river for about two miles. This land is now under a fine state of cultivation, and dotted with splendid residences. A small part of it is now occupied by the village of Venice. In order to secure it the company bid ten cents per acre above the minimum price. The six owners then divided the land, under a survey made by

Emanuel Vantrees. Each had a front on the river, something quite essential in those days of flat-boats and still-houses. Mr. Butterfield obtained eight hundred acres, partly in Butler and partly in Hamilton Counties. He fixed his residence near where Venice is now located.

The Masonic society of Venice was instituted as early as 1832. Among the charter members were William Turner, now of Harrison, Ohio, engaged as a tailor; Ephraim Buell, father of D. C. Buell, a prominent citizen of New Haven, Hamilton County; Sherebiah Butterfield, now living near Dayton; and William Cone, now living on the Miami below the town, near the ancient site of Crosby village. In 1839, or thereabouts, the charter was revoked on account of the decrease in the membership. Some twenty-five years ago it was returned, since which time the lodge has been in a prosperous condition. The first place of holding meetings was in a house rented of Ephraim Buell, which stood on the pike leading to the bridge. About 1853 the society erected their present hall, a frame building two stories high, valued at about $600.

Venice has had many temperance societies. In 1848 an organization was formed known as the Sons of Temperance. Their meetings were held in the Masonic hall. This hall is now occupied by the Widow Fesel as a dwelling-house. The most prominent members were William Cone, Adam Cummings, A. H. Cone, Isaac Frost, and John Hutchinson. Venice is now favored with three saloons, and there are yet many opportunities for temperance work.

Venice Odd Fellows' Lodge was organized in July, 1871. The charter dates the 15th of the same month, and was received a few days before the hall was completed. This society was organized at the house of John The hall was completed the same year the lodge was organized, costing $800, being an addition over a room now occupied by T. Joyce as a wagonmaker's shop. The first officers of this lodge were John Hutchinson, N. G.; Dr. F. B. Morris, V. G.; Thomas Pottenger, Treas.; J. Moore, P. Sect.; J. Bevington, Sect. The other members were A. Strubel and S. Bevington.

Venice Cemetery had its beginning in 1817, when Dr. Clark gave one acre of land immediately north of the Odd Fellows' hall, but which was soon exchanged, by a proposition from the members of the Bethel Presbyterian Church, for one acre on the south side of the present cemetery. This exchange was made because the original site was thought less favorable for burial purposes. The intention was that deeds should be given by both parties, but after twenty-one years of occupancy the Clark heirs claimed and received the intended original ground. The acre on the hill had an addition of three acres within a few years. There are now five acres in the ground. Every thing is in keeping with taste and durabilty. We take these inscriptions from

John Van Ausdall departed this life April 4, 1835; aged 29. Margaret, wife of David Van Ausdall, departed this life April 24, 1837; aged 29. Permelia, wife of Daniel Brown, died August 10, 1834; aged 31. Doctor Benjamin Clark, died June 22, 1826; aged 57. Elizabeth, wife of Doctor Benjamin Clark, died February 15, 1861; aged 77. Alvira, daughter of Doctor Clark, born October 15, 1824; died March 7, 1868. Nicholas Demoret, died April 22, 1826; aged 65. Lydia, wife of King De Armond, formerly wife of Nicholas Demoret, died February 2, 1867; aged 93. In memory of Silence Bennet, who died February 28, 1830; aged 81. John Shaw, died January 26, 1834; aged 58. Lemuel Hungerford, died February 21, 1846, in the 85th year of his age. Abigail Hungerford, died January 27, 1842; aged 81. Martin Busseur, died July 15, 1834; aged 51. Mary Patton, wife of John Brown, departed this life April 24, 1846; aged 90. Sacred to the memory of Rev. Thomas Thomas, who departed this life October 9, 1851; aged 51. Rev. Mr. Thomas was the first pastor of the Presbyterian Church in Venice, organized in 1828. He came from New London. Rebecca Maria, wile of C. W. Prather, M. D., and daughter of A. and R. Brickhead, of Virginia, departed this life February' 26, 1840; aged 19. William 8. Van Dyke departed this life December 21, 1836; aged 29. Peter Timberman, a man of well-known family, died October 22, 1856, in the 57th year of his age. Joseph R. Coryell, died October 11, 1843; aged 42. Charity Coryell, died March 24, 1839; aged 68. Sacred to the memory of George Coryell, who died April 22, 1836; aged 72. David McCleery, born December 12, 1776; died November 11, 1833. Isabella McCleery, born January 21, 1789; died March 21, 1830. Mary, wife of Fergus Anderson, born October 5, 1800; died October 4, 1859. N. Wade, born August 19, 1798; died July 24, 1879. Jane, wife of Nehemiah Wade, born August 6, 1791; died November 25, 1865. Horace Willey, born February 13, 1792; died March 3, 1880. Anna, wife of Horace Willey, born June 16, 1792; died January 7, 1879. Bradbury Cilley, born May 16, 1798; died July 19, 1874. Mr. Cilley was one of the wealthiest citizens of Colerain Township at the time of his death.

Sarah B., wife of Jonathan Patterson, who died February 26, 1826; aged 21. Mary, wife of Jeremiah Butterfield, died June 27, 1853; aged 77. Nathaniel Butterfield, died October 11, 1857; aged 44. Mary, wife of S. A. Butterfield, died December 20, 1872; aged 66.

Venice Schools

About the year 1814, the Butterfields, Shaws, Willeys, and others gathered in the woods to build a school-house on the lot now occupied by I. R. Anderson's dwelling. The house, a log building, was twenty by twenty feet, with puncheon floor, stone fire-place, board door, and wooden hinges, writing desks made by placing long boards on slanting pins put in the logs, slab seats, windows which extended the whole length of the house, and other fixtures common with early educational institutions. The logs of the house were round hackberry.

one of the first teachers, was a strict disciplinarian. Many stories of his eccentricities are told by his scholars, a few of whom are still living. The Rey. Mr. Goble, a New Light minister, preached a number of times to the early residents of Venice and vicinity in this old log building. In 1820 Mr. Swain taught a high school in a little house which stood on the lot now owned by Thomas Joyce. This school was generally known as the Advanced School, grammar, arithmetic, and some higher branches being taught. About six or seven years after the first house was built it was destroyed by fire. The school was then taken to a log cabin on the lot now occupied by Andrew Voigt's house.

In 1824 a society was chartered for religious and literary purposes, to which Isaac Lutes deeded one acre of land where the Presbyterian church now stands. This lot extended to the Hamilton and Cincinnati road, and was only given with the consideration that Dr. Frank Clark should deed a like amount for burial purposes where Thomas Joyce's wagon shop now is. About this time it appears that a small brick church was built on a small triangular lot, a short distance south-east of the Presbyterian church.

In the erection of the second school-house, in 1825, a great deal of dissatisfaction was experienced in consequence of the grants of land which had been made by Lutes and Shaw. John Shaw, an old bachelor, gave as an addition to Mr. Lutes's lot, one half acre more. This house, a one-story brick, with raised floors on each side and sunken middle for classes, stood on the lot now occupied by Thomas Boal's residence. The second schoolhouse, proper, was considered a model in its day. It was twenty-five by thirty feet, four windows on each side, one in the front end, and with two large fire-places. A double door, which swung on iron hinges, in the south-east corner of the room, furnished the means of entrance. School was held in this house until 1850; there were also frequently religious meetings in it.

When the old house began to grow too small for school purposes, the directors began to cast about for a new building. To avoid any trouble about the title of the land upon which the house was to stand, an additional lot was bought.of Mr. Patton, who gave a deed of it to the school board. This lot was in the rear of the old building, and the new house erected partly upon it is still standing behind Thomas Boal's residence, The house is thirty by forty-five feet, one- story, two rooms, two doors fronting on the Hamilton Pike, with playground in front. The lot is claimed by the Union Religious Society.

In the fourth building (counting the log-cabin one, after the first house was destroyed by fen school was held until 1875, when the Union school-house was built.

"The iret was growing too large for two rooms, and the Venice district proposed to the district north to consolidate the two under an independent high school district." The vote was in favor of consolidating, but not to be independent. A. site for the new building next engaged the attention of the directors and those interested in the enterprise. This became a serious question. One faction wanted to use the old lot, but the same old objection was urged. It was finally decided to sell the old lot, the purchaser to take risks as to title. The lot sold for four hundred and fifty dollars, and the church and school joined in making the deed good. A site was subsequently selected one-half mile north; where two acres had been bought, one acre each from Judge Wade and Jeremiah Morgan, at two hundred dollars per acre. The township board of education granted eight thousand dollars for the erection of the building, and thus, in 1875, under the efforts of George W. Dick, Major Robert Joyce, and William Clark the new house was completed, and is one of the best in the county.

The school opened in the new building under the supervision of Samuel McClelland, who taught for seven months, every room being full to overflowing. He was followed by Mr. Dayton for seven months, and at the close of his term there was a considerable amount of distrust in the minds of the people as to the success of the enterprise. Alfred Joyce, a young man of many parts, consolidated the intermediate and high school departments, and completed the school year of Mr. Dayton, and giving evidence of talent, was employed for the succeeding year. S. A. Gossett was also employed as principal and superintendent, who at once introduced a curriculum of study and a code of rules for the government . of the school. Under this control the school progressed rapidly, and within two years afterwards twelve scholars held certificates as teachers. Many of these young boys and girls are now among the successful educators in the surrounding country. Mr. Joyce, after teaching the intermediate department for five years, was called to Millville as principal of the high school at that place. Among those who have risen rapidly in their chosen profession, who have been Mr. Gossett's scholars, is Miss Anna M. Willey, a young lady well and favorably known, both in Hamilton and Butler Counties, in educational circles.

The Venice High School is still progressive, and Mr. Gossett is yet to see many years of pleasure and profit in the hamlet which our forefathers called '*Venus."

The Venice Presbyterian Church was organized in the Fall of 1828 by the Presbytery of Cincinnati. It was an outgrowth of the Bethel Church above Millville. Sargent, David Gibson, and Nehemiah Wade were the first elders. At a subsequent time the Church came into connection with the Oxford Presbytery, and after the union of the two Presbyterian bodies, was added to the Presbytery of Dayton. In October, 1874, it was transferred to the Cincinnati Presbytery. The present church edifice was erected in the year 1856. The succession of its ministers is as follows: Thomas Thomas, from 1828 to 1831; Samuel Smith, from 1831 to 1835; Peter Golliday, from 1835 to 1839; A. A. Gilliland, from 1839 to 1859; I. M. Hughes, from 1859 to 1870; J. B. Morton, from 1870 to 1872; John Daniels, from 1872 to 1873; David R. Moore, from 1873 to 1877; John Haight, from 1878 to 1881. The present membership of this Church is about one hundred and sixty persons. In 1876 the elders of the Church were Judge Nehemiah Wade, Thomas Burns, I. A. Boal, all of whom are dead; William Sims, who has removed to a different neighborhood ; George W. Dick, I. W. Inderson, H. W. Scott, N. Wade, Jr., and N. C. Wade, all living. Trustees of the Church for the same year were Thomas Boal, I. R. Anderson, George W. Dick, and N. Wade, Jr., who are also the present officers. The Rey. Thomas E. Thomas, D. D., united with the Venice Presbyterian Church April 2, 1831, and died February 38, 1875, at Walnut Hills, Ohio. The Sabbath-school connected with the Church is in a healthy condition. The officers in 1876 were James R. Hemphill, superintendent ; George C. Marsh, secretary; and Thomas Bgal, treasurer. Connected with the Church is a woman's benevolent society, officered in 1876 as follows: Mrs. D. R. Moore, president; Mrs. George W. Dick, vice-president; Mrs. Julia S. Wade, secretary; Miss Sarah Reese, treasurer. The minister in charge at present is Rev. W. Macmillan, who fills the position as stated supply.

We give the names of some who have been and are the most prominent members: Fergus Anderson, Sylvania Anderson, 8S. D. Anderson, Israel Atherton, Jane Atherton, Thomas Burns, I. A. and Thomas Boal, Asa Burch, Asa H. Cone, James Carr, Charles and Joseph Cone, George W. Dick, Miss Mary F. Dick, C. K. Gilliland, John Knox, George Kay, Elizabeth Lutes, George _C, Marsh, Hannah Marsh, Henderson W. Scott, John E. Sater, Amelia Willey, Robert C. Wade, and R. W. Wade. All those who have been mentioned in any way as connected with the Sunday-school are members.

In 1826 the Rev. D. D. Davison and the Rev. R. O. Spenser organized the Venice Methodist Episcopal Church. They preached at first in the district school-house. In 1831 the Presbyterians gave permission to the Methodists to hold meeting in their church, and the preacher in charge, Rev. John Stewart, commenced in the work. A powerful revival was soon under headway. In this society was a zealous sister by the name of Hotchkiss, who in 1832, without the aid of even one man, embarked in the enterprise of building the first church. After obtaining a sufficient amount of money by subscription, and promised labor, with also the donation of a lot, she went to Peter Youmans and asked his assistance. He immediately became a partner in the undertaking and secured the title to the lot. The same year the house was completed and dedicated. In 1862 an effort was made to build a new house on the old site. Rey. Isaac Neff was the preacher in charge, and zealously entered into the enterprise. Subscriptions to a considerable amount were raised. At this time there arose some dissensions in the Church on account of the Rebellion and the location of the new edifice. Mrs. Sarah Andrews, of the Miamitown Methodist Episcopal Society, came to their assistance by a bequest of $1,000. The church was erected and named Andrews Chapel. Mrs. Andrews also bequeathed $100 to the society for the support of the ministers, paid annually in ten-dollar installments. So far as can be seen Methodism must have been a failure in Venice but for the help of woman. The society is now the weakest on the circuit. The present house was completed in 1865, and dedicated by Dr. J. M. Reid, then the editor of the Western Christian Advocate.

On the 1st of December, 1849, at a quarterly conference at New Haven, a resolution was offered by Rev. B. P. Wheat, that the Venice circuit purchase or build a parsonage house. The motion was carried and a board of trustees created, consisting of Messrs. Marsh, Bryan, Shaw, Yeager, De Camp, Stewart, and Bartlett. Ata second quarterly conference at Harrison, February 16, 1850, the trustees reported Washington, Harrison, New Haven, and Venice as favorable sites for the location of the parsonage. It was decided at this meeting to build the house at Washington. After some delay by two or three sets of trustees, in May, 1851, it was ordered that the ''house now almost finished in the town of Venice be purchased for $750, the amount the owner agrees' to take for it." The house was undoubtedly purchased the same year. In 1856 and 1857 the stable, carriage-house, and shed were built, during the pastorate of the Rev. A. W. Tibbitts. Perhaps every family that has occupied the house has done something to beautify the premises, but up to 1869 Mrs. W. N. Williams probably did more than any other person. The parsonage is now (1882) neatly kept by the Rev. E. A. Easton and wife.

In 1819 Oxford circuit was formed, embracing the country between the Miami River and the State line. The following are the names of the pastors and presiding elders who served on this circuit from its organization until 1837: 1819, John Sale, P. E., and Russel Bigelow, P. C.; 1820, Walter Griffith, P. E., and Allen Willey, P. C., assisted by B. F. Crouch; 1821, same presiding elder, and Samuel Baker, P. C., assisted by William H. Raper; 1822, A. Cummings, P. E., and Moses Crume, P. C., with Richard Brandriff, assistant ; 1823, same presiding elder, with James Jones for pastor in charge, and Levi White, A. P.; 1824, John Strange, P. E., and Peter Stephens, P. C., assisted by James Jones; 1825, John Collins, P. E., with Daniel D. Davison, P. C., and J. Baughman assistant; 1826, same P. K., P. C., and R. O. Spenser for assistant; 1827, same presiding elder, J. C. Brook, P. C., with J. C. Hunter assistant pastor; 1828, Greenbury R. Jones, P, E., J. P. Taylor, P. C., with B. Lawrence A. P.; 1829, 1830,

1831, Greenbury R. Jones, P. E. Elijah H. Field and R. O. Spenser were in charge for 1829; R. O. Spenser and E. H. Field were in charge in 1830; John Stewart and A. D. Beasley were in charge in 1831. James B. Finley, P. E., with John Stewart and J. F. Davison in charge in 1832. In 1833 Oxford was embraced in the Cincinnati circuit, where it remained until 1837. In 1838 James B. Finley was presiding elder, and J. W. Clark, P. C., with J. W. Finley assistant pastor. In 1834 Thomas A. Morris was presiding elder, and Charles W. Swain and J. Waterman in charge. In 1835 Leroy Swormstedt was presiding elder, and Burnis Westlake, P. C., assisted by Lucien W. Berry, J. A. Waterman, supernumerary. Leroy Swormstedt was presiding elder in 1836, Burnis Westlake P. C., assisted by D. Poe.

In 1837 the Oxford circuit was divided, and the New Haven circuit formed, which was embraced in the Lebanon district. As near as can be ascertained, the circuit consisted of fifteen appointments: New Haven, Harrison, Washington, Venice, Zion, Ebenezer, Miamitown, Bluerock, Layhigh, Youmans, Marsh's, Scoggin's, Mofford's, Olive Branch, and Stephens's Beech Woods. The localities of some of these places are now forgotten.

From the organization of the New Haven circuit to 1846 the following ministers served as presiding elders and pastors: 1837, William B. Christie, P. E. and Asa M. Stroud, with Martin Wolf as assistant; 1838, James B. Finley, P. E., with John W. Steel and William H. Fyffe as assistant; 1839, 1840, 1841, and 1842, George W. Walker, as presiding elder; Levi P. Miller, assisted by J. A. Waterman, served the circuit in 1840; Arthur W. Elliott and David Kemper in 1841; Joseph Gasner and Peter Holtzinger in 1842. In 1848, 1844, and 1845, Zachariah Connell was the presiding elder, Charles R. Lovell and Levi Cunningham were in charge; in 1844, Charles R. Lovell and Isaac N. Mark were in charge; 1845, Joseph Brooks and O. E. Peebles were in charge. Nathaniel L. Conrey was appointed the same year, vice Joseph Brooks, resigned. Asa B. Stroud, the first pastor in charge of the New Haven circuit, received a salary of $260, and on traveling expenses $127. The circuit paid his house rent. Martin Wolf, assistant pastor, received a little above seventy-five dollars on salary, and six dollars on traveling expenses. Mr. Lovell received $309.42 for his salary. Isaac N. Mark the same year received ninety-three dollars and fifteen cents.

In 1846 the name of the circuit was changed to that of Venice, which name it still bears. There were thirteen appointments at this time, as follows: Venice, Washington, Ebenezer, Walker, Zion, Bunker Hill, Layhigh, Youmans, Marsh's, Poe's School-house, Miamitown, New Haven, and Harrison. The first presiding elder, Z. Connell, was allowed forty-eight dollars for his salary, but only received forty-three dollars, a custom which was his salary as the first pastor in charge, $327.14. The presiding elders and ministers in charge since 1848 have been given in the order of appointment; first the presiding elders, then the pastors and assistant pastors: 1848, William I. Ellsworth, Daniel D. Davison, and J. B. Fish ; 1849, William I. Ellsworth, Benjamin P. Wheat, and Thomas M. Thralls; 1850, William I. Ellsworth, Benjamin P. Wheat, and Benjamin Glasscock; 1851, Augustus Eddy, William M. Smith, Benjamin F. Morris, the latter serving nine months, and his place being supplied by J. E. Thompson.

In 1852, the Cincinnati Annual Conference was formed, and Venice circuit was included within its boundaries. Salem came into the circuit the same year. In 1852 Augustus Eddy, M. Kauffman, and William M. Smith were in charge of the Venice circuit; 1853, Augustus Eddy, M. Kauffman, George B. Owens, Thomas Dunn, supernumerary; 1854, Augustus Eddy, George B. Owens, John Shinn; 1855, David Reed, A. W. Tibbitts, D. C. Benjamin; 1856, David Reed, A. W. Tibbitts, Alfred W. Keeling, supernumerary; 1857, David Reed, Michael Bitler, Daniel Griffis; 1858, David Reed, Andrew M. Murphey, Michael Bitler; 1859, Michael Marlay, John Fitch and George W. Kelley; 1860, Michael Marlay, J. P. Waterhouse, Evan P. James; 1861, Michael Marlay, Isaac Neff, and Sullivan W. Edmiston.

In 1862 the circuit was embraced in the Hamilton district, William H. Lauder, J. Neff, and 8. W. Edmiston in charge; 1863 the circuit was included in the West Cincinnati district, William H. Lauder, George W. Fee, and A. W. Keeling in charge; 1864, 1865, and 1866 William H. Lauder was presiding elder; William N. Williams was preacher in charge in 1865, 1866, and 1867, assisted in 1865 by N. C. Parrish, and in 1866 by Charles R. Gowdy as supernumerary. In 1867 and 1868 James F. Chalfant was presiding elder. Nathaniel C. Parrish and Jacob R. Hunter were pastors in charge in 1868; in 1869, 1870, and 1871 Mr. Chalfant was the presiding elder; in 1871, L. F. Van Cleve; in 1872 and 1873, Asbury Lowrey. William A. Robinson was preacher in charge in 1869, assisted by N. C. Prince; in 1870, W. A. Robinson, assisted by A. J. Hanna and A. W. Keeling; in 1871, George J. Conner; in 1872, Fletcher Hypes, assisted by John W. Sutherland; 1873, Fletcher Hypes, with G. M. Hammel as assistant preacher; and J. R. Hunter for three years and E. A. Easton for two years, both pastors in charge.

Four or five years ago the appointments of New Haven, Venice, Washington, and Okeana were placed in one circuit. All the other places of worship which have been mentioned as Methodist appointments, now belong to the Oxford circuit. Although beginning late; this Church is now the most prosperous in the county.

On the 23d of May, 1815, Joseph Van Horne laid off the town of Millville. Van Horne had been here for some time previous, engaged in milling in the same building which is now standing. The village is almost wholly in Section 4, and mostly in Ross Township. Indian Creek divides the place into halves, the western side or half being situated on a hill, which slopes gradually towards the creek. The eastern side of the village is level, and has the greater part of the population. Among some of the early settlers were Joel Williams, who was here in 1805; George Thomas, William Van Horne, the Hills, the Beatys, H. R. Coleman, Samuel Proud, David Montfort, Daniel Brosier, Charles Spinnings, and others.

From the earliest times Millville has oceupied a proud position in her country's history. When the State was subjecting her citizens to a system of military training, such men as ex-Governor Bebb, Colonel Halstead, and Judges Anderson and Wade met here to drill. These gatherings were after the fashion of town meetings, and called together all kinds of men. Besides, the mill was always a very necessary part of frontier machinery, and hence brought farmers to town through necessity. This mill was built in 1805 by Joel Williams, a mill-wright from the East. Williams, in 1821, sold the mill, including thirty acres of land, to William Cochran, who was born in New Jersey, but who was living at that time with his family in what is now Glendale, Hamilton County, Ohio. Mr. Cochran soon added one hundred acres more to his property, and on the 15th of August, 1825, purchased eighty acres adjoining of William Cobb and wife. One of the most remarkable facts connected with the erection of this mill is that the stone were hauled from Bank Lick, a stream in Hamilton County, at the mouth of which Williams had or quite soon thereafter erected a similar establishment. The Millville mill has remained in the family of William Cochran since 1821, the fourth owner being James W. Cochran, who died recently. For about ten years C. F. Thomin has had the oversight of this mill, receiving for his services one-half of the net proceeds.

One of the first indications that civilization was moving westward is found in a wrought-iron nail factory, which was in operation about 1823 on the bank of Indian Creek near where the tavern now stands. It was carried on for a number of years, the iron coming from beyond the Alleghanies down the Ohio.

Thomas Baker, a tailor by trade, owned a carding and fulling mill here in 1828 and 1830. The mill is now standing, being the first house west of the Presbyterian church. This establishment continued for eight or ten years. The motive power was furnished by a horse tread-wheel. Fd ;

John, Samuel, Matthew, William, Thomas, and Francis Van Horne, sons of Joseph Van Horne, carried on the manufacture of whisky in Millville before 1825, in a log still-house on the corner below where the bridge now stands on the west side of the creek. This bridge was built in 1849, two years after a like affair was carried off by high water.

It required but little foresight to see that store-keeping might be made profitable in Millville at an early day. We find, therefore, in 1825, or, no doubt, as early as 1819, Eliakim Ross here engaged in keeping what was pre-eminently a country store. Henry R. Coleman was in the same business in 1825, in a log house on the south side of the creek, a few rods above the bridge. John and Thomas Hanna were here in 1830, on the north or east side of the stream, a short distance above the tavern. John M. Cochran kept store in 1838, followed by Elias Kumler & Flickinger. Mr. Garner was also a business man in Millville at an early day. A. T. Carnahan was here also; he died in Venice. John W. Meeker, now of Harrison, was a merchant in the village some ten or fifteen years ago.

For the first blacksmith, Millville had William Ray, whose shop stood on the old turnpike, which formerly followed the creek without making a right angle at the corner. Mr. Shafer was also here early, on the old road. Henry Gallaway and his family were gunsmiths and blacksmiths in Millville more than fifty years ago. Frederic Zillyox was a blacksmith in 1845, or thereabouts. He afterwards became a tavern-keeper. Michael Emerick and Jacob Fillhardt were also blacksmiths. Gray was here as a mechanic for a time. blacksmiths in town at present.

The first post-office in the village was kept in a log house now occupied as a part of George Ender's hotel. William Hill was the first postmaster. James Hill was the second postmaster, in a frame house above the bridge, near where the harness shop now is. Hill was postmaster for about thirty-five years. The third office was in a brick building across the creek. © Before 1875, for ten or twelve years, the post-office was kept in various places, since which time it has been in its present location. James Hill was also a justice of the peace and a tanner in 1825, opposite the town hall. The fixtures of this tannery were to be seen until within a few years back. Robert, a son of James Hill, had control of the tannery for some time. Mr. Hill kept the post-office in the office of the tannery. The early mail route had for offices Dick's Mill, Millville, and Scipio (or Philanthropy). A stage route which began about 1835 ran from Oxford and beyond to Cincinnati. It was of very great service to the people.

In 1825 William Hill was a tavern-keeper in this village, and had probably been here for 'some time previous, in a log house on the north side of the creek. The house has long since disappeared. M. J. Millspaugh was engaged in the same business as early as 1820, on the south side of Indian Creek, in a double frame house. Jacob Hasler came in 1833 or 1834, and took charge of the Hill property. His wife was an excellent cook, and many travelers made it a point to spend the night with them. Frederic Zillyox followed Hasler in the same house, and also did a good business, building the present large frame in 1850. Joseph Van Ausdall was a tavern-keeper here also, for a year after Zillyox. After railroads came to be regarded by the public as a means of travel, the Millville taverns were compelled to take a less lucrative position.

Dr. James Corey was the first resident physician here in 1825. He removed to Cincinnati, and in a few years to Oxford, where he died. Dr. Lot Cooper was here in 1828. Dr. Kingsley was here soon thereafter. Dr. Arbuckle came in 1840, and remained for many years. Dr. Herron followed Arbuckle, the latter being here for six or eight years.- Dr. Battenburg was here as a physician for a short time. Dr, Roll, of McGonigle's, practiced in this vicinity with much success. The present physicians are Drs. Hancock and Dodd. All these men had the respect of the community.

Millville had for its first school-house a building, undoubtedly of logs, which stood on the site now occupied by the Presbyterian Church. This house was here in 1825. A year or two after a brick edifice was built, which stood until 1872, when the present Presbyterian Church made additions, and it is now used for their church. The present school-building, a handsome brick structure, was erected in 1872. For teachers, Abel Burress was here in 1825 and 1826; Mr. Dunn in 1835, and James A. Neal in 1836.

A. public meeting was held in the town of Millville on the 19th of June, 1858, for the purpose of forming a high school. An organization was effected and twentyeight shares of stock secured, at one hundred dollars each. The shareholders were James Whipple, Robert Moore, John Basler, J. C. Beaty, Peter Minton, H. Flickinger, Samuel Dick, James Williams, Lewis Bullock, Andrew Timberman, Ira M. Whipple, John W. Carr, John Ross, John H. Post, D. K. Zeller, W. R. Carnahan, Jacob Kumler, Michael Kumler, Samuel Dick, John Ross, Jacob Fillhardt, Jacob Wickard, James Dick, James Lewis, John Forlow, John Lefer, J. W. Cochran, D. P. Nelson.

By-laws and a constitution were drafted, and the school machinery set in successful running order. D. P. Nelson was the first teacher. He was a graduate of Oxford, and was very energetic in its organization. Lewis Bullock was also a teacher. The school-building was erected about 1855, by Robert Ferguson, and used as a store and post-office, but was sold afterwards to the high school corporation. This school continued for a number of years. All the higher branches were taught, preparatory for college. In May, 1870, the school-building was sold, and is now used for a dwelling-house.

met and resolved to open books for subscriptions. The building committee was composed of Doctor A. Hancock, Luke Bradley, A. G. McKeon, C. F. Thomin, who was really one of the originators also, but who, because of holding the office of justice of the peace, was not so con-- sidered in the corporation papers, and R. T. Hancock. Mr. Thomin was made secretary, and R. T. Hancock, treasurer. This committee began work on the foundation on the 11th of December, 1877. The house was completed on or about July 4, 1878, although meetings and entertainments were held in it as early as April Ist. Total cost of building and lot was one thousand two hundred and eighty-eight dollars. The present directors are Luke Bradley, president; William B. Flenor, vice-president ; C. F. Thomin, secretary; Jacob Fisher, treasurer, and A. J. Lewis. This hall is a handsome frame building, and is very useful to the public.

Samuel's Lutheran Church, above Millville, in Hanover Township, was begun as early as 1815. This organization was very prosperous for a time - a period of twenty odd years - when some difference arose in regard to their creed, which caused a division. In 1842, October Ist, the corner-stone of a brick building, fifty by forty feet, was laid for a church in Millville, on a lot now under a - state of cultivation in the south-east corner of the farm of W. B. Davis. This portion of the Zeigler congregation formed what was known as the Millville Lutheran Church. The remaining worshipers continued to use the old church until 1853, when they also came to the village and erected their present house. Some of the original members of the Hanover Township Church were Samuel Zeigler, Frank Bealer, and Daniel Brosier. This house is now standing, in a very dilapidated condition. There is also connected with it a grave-yard, also in a bad condition.

Mt. Zion, the proper name for the Lutheran Church in Millville, had, in 1842, for some of its prominent members John A. Keil, Philip Spangler, Jacob Kocher, Michael Shank, John Confare, Jacob Bealer, Daniel Shollenburger, George Spangler, and Michael and Philip Hawk. The Rev. John Surface, of Springfield, Ohio, dedicated the church. It was not until 1845 that there was any regular pastor - Rey. G. Sill. He was followed by E. R. Gwiney and W. C. Barnett, who is now in Tennessee preaching. Leonard Harrison and Mr. Kooch were here soon after Gwiney. From the Rey. Mr. Kooch henceforward the congregation was supplied by irregular preachers. When the Church was in a prosperous condition, its highest membership numbered fifty. Luke Bradley, Mrs. Sortman, and Mrs. Rothermel are the only living members. The house was sold to Mr. W. B. Davis about fifteen years ago, who tore down the building and sold the brick.

As has been said, the German Reformed Millville Church was one of the branches of the Samuel Zeigler Lutheran Church in Hanover Township. Among its first members were Jacob Kooch, John Fisher and wife, Frederic Zillyox, Jacob Fillhardt, Messrs. Hoover, George Muskopf, and their wives. Jacob and Barbara Muskopf were also early members. Their prominent preacher was Rey. John Bowman, a man who took a leading part in church erection. George Michling, Mr. Boleman, and Mr. Hostmaier were also prominently engaged here in the same work. Several years ago the Hanover Township church was sold; the money is now in the hands of the trustees of the Reformed Church, and held for cemetery purposes. At present there are about one hundred and twenty-five members. A good Sundayschool is in operation, with some eighty scholars, begun in 1855.

Among the most important of churches in Ross Township has been the United Brethren, erected about 1822, on the hill above Millville, on the south side of the old dirt road. This house, like the one built in the village in 1851, was a brick building about thirty-six by forty feet. For many years this society was by odds the leading congregation in this vicinity. It led in membership the famous Bethel Society, until some ten years ago, when the latter organization took the lead, since which time it has held it.

After about thirty years of continual use, the old church was torn down and the brick used in the construction of a new house. This society has seasons of promise and adversity. Some of the most distinguished of the early ministers were Henry Kumler and Mr. Sellers. The Rev. Christopher Flinchpaugh, a man who rode for over fifty years the circuit lying between the two Miamis, and extending as far north as Dayton, Ohio, was a noted visitor. Many names of the first members will appear in these inscriptions :

Ann Maria, wife of Michael Bottenburg, Sen., died August 5, 1850; aged 75. Dr. Daniel Bottenburg, died July 19, 1834; aged 25. Adam Clippinger, Sen., born in Northampton County, Penn., October 12, 1780; died in Butler County, Ohio, December 27, 1850. Benjamin Whalin, born in Lancaster County, Penn., died October 11, 1835; aged 22. Alexander Moore, died December 5, 1842; aged 63. Moses Langhlin, born December, 1777; died February 6, 1855. Tamson, wife of Moses Laughlin, departed this life December 23, 1844; aged 67. John Morse, who died January 9, 1850; aged 56. Also, Elizabeth, his wife, who died September 25, 1841; aged 47. David Doner, died September 10, 1828; aged 55. Nancy, wife of David Doner, died May 8, 1843; aged 64. A conspicuous monument in the south side reads, Mary, wife of Alexander Moore, died November 12, 1853; aged 62. Elizabeth, wife of Jacob Wickard, died December 28, 1852; aged 40. Jacob Carr, died August 29, 1854; aged 66. Amos Flickinger, Co. F., 93d O. V. L., wounded in the battle of Murfreesboro, Tenn., died January 14, 1863; aged 20. Charles Kichling, born in Prussia, May 26, 1827; died September 22, 1876. John Zeller, died October 16, 1857; aged 59. Daniel Beal, died January 18, 1871; aged 75. Amy, wile of Daniel Beal, died April 24, 1870; aged 73. John Lefiler, died April 3, 1876; aged 68. Jacob Snyder, died June 21, 1859; aged 58. Catharine, wife of Jacob Snyder, died March

Nehemiah Wade

Nehemiah Wade was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, in the year 1795. He was the son of David E. Wade, one of the first settlers of Cincinnati, a man of vast wealth, in addition to about two thousand acres: of land which he owned at the mouth of Indian Creek, in Butler County. Nehemiah Wade was elected a justice of the peace for Ross Township in 1818, an office he held for six years. In 1841, he was chosen by the Legislature of Ohio as an associate judge of the Court of Common Pleas of Butler County, and again chosen at the session of 1847 and 1848, holding the office until the organization of the courts under the new constitution - a term of eleven years. In addition to these trusts, Mr. Wade held

He was an elder in the Presbyterian Church for about half a century; a superintendent of the Sunday-school for about forty years, and always a liberal supporter of Christian institutions. He died July 24, 1879, in the eighty-sixth year of his age, leaving behind him a large and admirable posterity, many of whom still live in the vicinity of Venice, Ross Township.

Jeremiah Butterfield

Jeremiah Butterfield was born on the 4th of March, 1776, in Chelmsford, Massachusetts. When he was twelve years old his father removed to the State of New York. In 1797 young Butterfield left his home to seek his fortune in the West. He traveled to Pittsburg, where he embarked on a flat-boat and descended the of Doctor Spencer for the Winter. In the following Spring he started on board a flat-boat to Cincinnati. The place was then only an inconsiderable village, containing not more than one thousand inhabitants. The boat's crew proceeded on their voyage down the Ohio to Louisville, and from thence to Fort Massac, on the north bank of the Ohio, thirty-six miles above its mouth. Butterfield remained at the fort only a short time. He purchased a pirogue, and, in company with a Kentuckian, set out for St. Louis. The trip to St. Louis was made by taking the river. From St. Louis he went to St. Charles, a small village on the north side of the Missouri River, eighteen miles above its mouth, where he remained one year. Mr. Butterfield, not liking the manners and customs of the people, returned to St. Louis, and from there crossed the country to Vincennes, on the Wabash. While crossing the prairie he encountered vast herds of buffalo. From Vincennes he went into the interior of Kentucky, where he remained for three months and then set out for the East. He arrived at his father's house, in New York, in the Winter of 1799. He was now twentythree years old, and determined to take unto himself a wife, a Miss Polly Campbell, whom he married in 1800. He now began to look for some place to live. After some delay, he again took the flat-boat for Cincinnati. The company, of which Butterfield was a part, made arrangements to work at harvesting for Colonel John Riddle, who, at that time, lived two miles north of Cincinnati, on the Hamilton road. One corner of his land was where the Brighton House used to stand. Israel Ludlow, who was at that time employed by the government to run the boundary line between the United States and the Indian nations, employed Butterfield to act as one of his chain carriers. On this expedition they were three months without seeing a dwelling-house, and at one time came near starving, being five days without food.

Karly in the ensuing Spring he visited and explored the valley of the Great Miami, the bottom lands of Which pleased him very much. He, with a company of others, in the Spring of 1801, made a purchase of two full and as many fractional sections, beginning at the mouth of Indian Creek and extending down the river for about two miles. The land was divided, and Butterfield became the owner of about eight hundred acres, near where Venice now is. His friends, who had come on with him, returned to New York, and he remained to make a home for his young wife. After some work, he returned for his wife and sister, and when returning, brought with him the seeds of various fruit trees, from which he afterwards raised fine fruit.

About the year 1805 or 1806, the neighborhood where Mr. Butterfield resided became infested with a band of outlaws, marauders, and horse-thieves, There was no law that could be carried into execution effectually but lynehlaw, which was resorted to successfully. He was active

In the Winter of 1819 Mr. Butterfield drove a large number of hogs through the woods from the neighborhood where he lived to Detroit, a distance of more than two hundred and eighty miles. For most of the distance on the route which he chose there were no roads, and what rendered the trip more difficult, a severe snowstorm set in. Some of his men became disheartened and returned, but he pushed forward, breaking a path in the snow with his horse for his hogs to follow. After many days of hardship he arrived safely, sold out to a good advantage, and returned home with his saddle-bags full of silver. Three times he shipped his hogs from his own door down the river to New Orleans, going with them himself in each instance. From New Orleans he shipped his hogs to Cuba, and in 1828 was shipwrecked. When the vessel neared the shore she struck a rock, and the captain and the crew took to the long-boat. Mr. Butterfield would not leave until he had cut open the pens containing the hogs, which were on deck, and let them into the sea. They nearly all swam to the shore, so that he lost but few, and in selling them received twelve dollars per hundred weight, weighing them alive, so that, notwithstanding he was shipwrecked, and had to pay three dollars' duty on each hog, he made a profitable voyage.

All his children but one are yet living. Sherebiah, the oldest son, lives on a part of the land purchased by his father in Hamilton County. John, the second son, and Jeremiah, the third son, live in the same neighborhood, in Hamilton County. Nathaniel lived to raise a family, but died several years ago. Elijah, another son, lives in this township. Mary, a daughter, married James Radcliffe, and lives near New Baltimore in Hamilton County, Ohio. Elizabeth, another daughter, married Mr. Maynard. All the children are in comfortable circumstances and are much respected by the community. John C. was born in 1808, and was married in 1845 to Caroline Brown, born in Butler County in 1818. They had seven children. Mary Elizabeth, wife of John Kleinfelder, lives in Venice; Elijah lives in Ross Township; Jesse is married and lives in Ross; Rachel is the wife of John Knox, and the others are John W., Sarah E., and Susan ©, He is a farmer, and owns one 'hundred and five acres, part of which belongs to the original two hundred acres his father purchased. He lives in the old homestead built by his father.

Isaac Anderson

Isaac Anderson was long and favorably known in Butler County, having been a resident for more than forty years. He was born in Donegal County, Ireland, September 15, 1758, and was the youngest of thirteen parents died within a short time of each other, and there being no legal guardian appointed for him, he was left pretty much to his own control, and in after life was often heard to say that until he was fourteen years old he was a self-willed and very rude boy. At that time he resolved to reform, and at once became industrious and steady. He soon became ready in mathematics, and especially so in surveying, for which he had a natural gift. At the age of sixteen he determined to seek his fortune in America. He sailed from Donegal, in the north of Ireland, and landed at Philadelphia in the early part of the year 1774. During his passage he kept up his mathematical studies by learning navigation under the tuition of the captain.

Several of his brothers and sisters had come to America some years previous, and settled in Virginia, where many of their descendants are yet residing. Isaac stopped in Pennsylvania until the Spring of 1776, when the war with Great Britain commenced, and he entered the service. He was enrolled in Colonel Morgan's rifle regiment, and from that time to the end of the war bore an honored and distinguished part. The first, or about the first, active service in which Anderson engaged was at Bemis Heights, between the American army under General Gates, and the British army under General Burgoyne. Colonel Morgan's regiment was detached to observe the movements of the enemy and to harass them as they advanced. The battle was long and bloody, and a dozen times in the day the result was doubtful. Darkness terminated the battle, and the Americans withdrew, but the defeat was equal to a victory. The second battle in which Mr. Anderson participated was fought on the 7th of October following. This battle was also a long and sanguinary conflict, and the result was entirely favorable to the Americans. Isaac Anderson, was also present at the surrender of the British army under General Burgoyne at Saratoga, which took place October 16, 1777. In December, 1777, during the time the British occupied Philadelphia, and while Congress held their sessions at Yorktown, the regiment to which Mr. Anderson belonged happened to be on a scouting expedition, when, on the 10th of the month, they fell in with a British regiment on a similar service. A skirmish ensued, during which Mr. Anderson was severely wounded by a musket-ball, which passed in at one cheek and out the opposite side, carrying away some of his teeth and a part of his jaw-bone. The wound injured the sight of one of 'his eyes, and made a scar which he carried through life. Mr. Anderson was supposed to be dead, and was left on the field. In the morning the British found him and carried him to the hospital, where he finally recovered.

When the British evacuated Philadelphia, on the morning of the 18th of June, 1778, Mr. Anderson feigned himself extremely ill, and was left behind in his berth in the hospital, by the connivance of a friend, who

The British, after leaving Philadelphia, followed by General Washington, fought a severe battle on the 28th of June, 1778, at Monmouth Court-house. Mr. Anderson often stated that in this battle he discharged his rifle with aim thirty-two times. In 1781 we find him engaged with General George Rogers Clark, on his expedition to the Falls of the Ohio. In this command he held the office of lieutenant in Captain Shannon's regiment. Many hair-breadth escapes occurred on this expedition. During his journey he kept a diary, which is still preserved in the family and contains much authentic information.

In November, 1788, Isaac Anderson was married to Euphemia Moorehead, eldest daughter of Fergus Moorehead, who had also been a soldier in the Revolution. Fergus Moorehead was the father of Joseph Moorehead, who received an ensign's commission, and marched to the West with the army under General St. Clair. In 1791 Mr. Anderson was offered a position as commander of a company fitting out to march against the Indians in the North-west, under the command of General St. Clair, but, being previously engaged by the Holland Land Company to make surveys in Western Pennsylvania, declined.

In the Winter of 1795-6, he, with his family, emigrated to the West, settling in Cincinnati, then a small village of log cabins, including about fifty rough, unfinished frame houses with stone chimneys.

In 1801 the United States first offered for sale the lands west of the Great Miami. Mr. Anderson remembered the beautiful rich bottoms of the Miami, which he had previously seen when on his way to Detroit, and resolved to make a purchase. He accordingly purchased a section of land above the mouth of Indian Creek, on which he commenced a clearing, and in 1812 removed with his family from Cincinnati, and settled on the farm, where he remained until his death, on the 18th of December, 1839, aged eighty-one years and nine months. His wife died at the old homestead August 26, 1851, aged eighty years and eleven months. Both lie in the Venice burying-ground.

They had born to them eleven children, six sons and five daughters. All but one grew up, married, and raised large families. Robert was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., September 14, 1789. He married Rachel Bunnel, June 16, 1811, and settled on a farm of' his father's. In March, 1828, when engaged in locating the Hamilton basin, he was attacked with bilious fever and died on the 19th of June of the same year.

Jane, the eldest daughter of Isaac Anderson, was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., on the 6th of August, 1791, and on the 30th of April, 1812, intermarried with

George Dick, a son of an old pioneer of the country. Her husband died on the 2d of September, 1828, leaving a widow and seven children, who all grew up to maturity and are respectably settled in this neighborhood. The widow of George Dick married again to Judge Nehemiah Wade, a gentleman residing in the vicinity. Margaret Anderson, the third daughter, was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., January 17, 1795, and on the 29th of July, 1817, married William Moore, a carpenter and joiner by trade, and a master workman. Mr. Moore died at Hamilton on the 2d of January, 1835. Fergus Anderson, the second oldest son, was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, June 14, 1797.

Susan Anderson, the second daughter, was born in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, June 10, 1793, and on the 18th of August, 1814, was married to James Boal, a hatter by trade, who opened a shop and carried on his business in Hamilton. Mrs. Boal was killed by a stroke of lightning, as also were two of her children and Mrs. Perrine, on the 5th of April, 1826. James Boal died near Reading, Hamilton County, Ohio, of cholera, in 1835.

William Anderson was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, September 26, 1808, and was married to Miss Hannah Millikin, a daughter of Samuel Millikin, March 26, 1833. Mrs. Anderson died soon afterward, and he married again, to Miss Mary Jackson, October 30, 1838. He died on the 5th of August, 1845.

James Anderson, the youngest son, was born in Cincinnati, on the 12th of December, 1810, and on the 14th of October, 1841, was married to Hannah Margaret Taylor.

The youngest child was a daughter, Euphemia Anderson (the second). \She was born in Ross Township, December 18, 1813, and was married to J. Parks Gilchrist on the 12th of April, 1837.

Griffin Halstead

My father and mother were John Halstead, of Currituck, North Carolina, and Ruth Richardson, his wife. Early in their married life they removed from the shore of Albemarle Sound to the northern central part of the State, where, near Guilford Court-house, I was born, June 11, 1802. I was the oldest son of the family who survived infancy. When I was two years old, my parents left their native State for the blue grass regions of

Kentucky; but the uncertainty of land-titles in that State caused them to continue their journey to the valley of the Great Miami, near the town of New Haven. In the Spring of 1805 a great flood dislodged them. The water of the Miami was higher than it has ever since been known, and my parents escaped from their cabin on horseback. This incident caused another movement, and a settlement upon the farm where I have ever since (almost seventy years) resided. The recommendation of the farm was that the tract contained both hill and bottom land, and was well timbered, watered by several fine springs, and out of the way of the floods.

In the opening of this farm the best energies of my early years were expended. My work varied by occasional hunting and fishing excursions, and trips to mill and to market, camp-meetings, huskings, and militia musters, the amusements that the country afforded; and during some brief intervals of very inclement weather, attendance at the Buckeye school-house on Paddy's Run. In 1822 I was captain of the militia; and in the Winter of 1824-25 I visited New Orleans. In 1826 I was elected colonel of the militia of the county, mustering at Millville; and I have, at various times, held the offices of clerk and trustee of my township, and have repeatedly served as magistrate.

November -1, 1827, I was united in marriage with Miss Clarissa Willits, eldest daughter of James Willits, who resided near New Haven. We had four children, two sons and two daughters: Caroline, who died in infancy; Murat and Benton, who are residents of Cincinnati; and Helen, Mrs. John M. Scott, who occupies the old homestead farm adjoining my own.

When the Mexican War occurred I enlisted in the Butler Guards, but inflammatory rheumatism, contracted in Camp Washington, prevented any participation in active service. I have been for over fifty years a pretty regular attendant at the polls in Ross Township, and have been in the habit of voting the Democratic ticket.

My earliest distinet recollections of public affairs are of the excitement attending the events of the last war with England; and Butler County, now so highly cultivated, was, within my remembrance, but a wilderness, broken with clearings that occupied comparatively but a small space; and the game we hunted in those days, including panthers, bears, and deer, was sometimes equal to hunting us. I am not aware that any other 'citizen of the county has lived for seventy consecutive years on one farm, so perhaps I may claim seniority in that particular.

I have outlived nearly all who were with me in early times. My wife, my sisters, my brothers, and, with here and there an exception, the old neighbors, all are gone; and I approach the age of seventy-three, in the enjoyment of reasonable health and strength beyond that ordinarily associated with my years. Colonel Halstead is still alive.

Murat Halstead

Murat Halstead was born September 2, 1829, in Ross Township. His father, Colonel Griffin Halstead, a native of North Carolina, removed in 1804 to Ohio with his parents, who, in the following year, settled upon the farm which became their grandson's birth-place. The family of his mother, Clarissa Willits, came from Pennsylvania, and were among the early settlers on the Scioto, in central Ohio. Mrs. Halstead, who taught her son to read and write at a very early age, made him a student of history and geography before he ever visited a schoolhouse, and his first school experience began in company with '"'McGuffey's Third Reader" and an English grammar. About the year 1840, the Rev. B. W. Chidlaw, a well known Congregational minister, kept a select school in New London, in which, during two successive Winters, Murat received instruction in the English branches. Afterward, until he was eighteen years old, he attended the common school of his district during the Winters, meanwhile working upon his father's farm through the Summer months. In the Fall of 1848, after a short experience in school-teaching, he entered Farmer's College, at College Hill, whence he graduated in 1851. He at one time attempted the study of law, but having written and contributed occasional sketches to the Hamilton Jntelligencer and a paper in Rossville, during his college life and while teaching school, he acquired a literary taste and facility in writing, which became the means of introducing him to his career as a journalist. Mr. Halstead's early literary efforts, however, were chiefly in the department of fiction, though he attempted several essays on American antiquities and current affairs. One of his pioneer romances, '' A Legend of the Miamis," was published before his graduation, in the Cincinnati C'azetie. In 1852, Mr. Halstead formed his earliest editorial connection as news editor of the daily Atlas, published by John D. Caldwell. This was followed by a_ brief engagement upon the Cincinnati Enquirer, as assistant local editor, and then as associate editor of the Columbian and Great West, edited by W. B. Shattuck. The Cincinnati Commercial had already been established for eleven years and was prosperous and influential, when in March, 1853, M. D. Potter, its chief proprietor and editorial manager, cngaged Mr. Halstead as one of its corps of reporters. In the Summer following, through the illness and absence of the proprietor, the direction of the paper fell into Mr. Halstead's hands. Then and afterward, as the opportunity was presented, was introduced into its management a feature which before long wrought a marked change in Western journalism. This was a systematic compilation of the news found in the exchange papers. Cincinnati being a central point, and the telegraph then giving but a meager outline of daily news - often nothing more than imperfect market reports - the work that Mr. Halstead was enabled to do yas so highly appreciated by Mr. Potter that, upon the reorganization of the firm, in May, 1854, after the death of R. H. Lee, Mr. Halstead (with Henry Reed and John Straus) secured a partnership interest, the firm name becoming M. D. Potter & Co. In this reorganization it was Mr. Potter's express object to give the office stability of management in case of his death, which, however, did not occur until April, 1866, when the firm of M. Halstead & Co. was organized.

Mr. Halstead attributes his success in journalism to his quick recognition of the importance and value of news and his skill in the use of the scissors. He possesses and exercises keen discrimination between such matters cffered for publication as have life and interest for to-day and those which can wait for to-morrow. He is, moreover, an indefatigable worker. As a writer, Mr. Halstead is direct, earnest, and forcible, with a large quality of buoyant, masculine vigor, partly the result, doubtless, of his robust bodily health, gained in youth from contact with the earth and air upon his father's farm. In politics, as an editor, he professes and practices honest independence of parties, though, having warmly upheld the Union cause in the war of secession, he afterward preferred the Republican traditions,

Mr. Halstead has visited Europe several times - first, in 1870, when he was present in France during the war with Prussia, and witnessed the battle of Gravelotte ; again in 1874, when he also visited Iceland, on the ocecasion of its millennial celebration, and for a brief period during the French Exposition, in 1878. He married March 2, 1857, Miss Mary Banks, daughter of the late Hiram Banks, and had ten children, seven sons and three daughters, namely: John (who died in 1861), Jennie, Marshal, Clarence, Robert, Albert, Mary, Hiram Banks, Clarissa, and Griffin.

Isaac Anderson, a son of the old Revolutionary veteran, Isaac Anderson, of whom a full account will be found elsewhere, was born in Cincinnati August 29, 1799. His mother was Euphemia Moorehead, eldest daughter of Fergus Moorehead, who had also been a soldier in the war of the Revolution. They were married in November, 1788, and had eleven children, of whom Isaac is the sixth. They came to this county in 1812. Mr. Anderson was married on the 18th of August, 1825, to Margaret Morris, daughter of William and Sarah Morris. They came to this county in 1798. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson have had seven children. The eldest, William Morris Anderson, who was born August 10, 1826, is dead. He served in the Mexican War, under the command of John B. Weller, and also in the late Rebellion. He was wounded in the battle of Chickamauga., Susan Bailey was born February 17, 1829, and Joseph: Anderson, February 7, 1831. He is dead. Eliza Jane Lewis was born September 11, 1834, and James Anderson, February 23, 1837. Isaac E. Anderson, who was born September 5, 1840, was in the service of the United States during the late war, and was killed at the fight of Chickamauga. Willson Anderson is the youngest, and was born July 1, 1845. Mr. Anderson cultivates a fine farm. He has been justice of the peace in Ross Township for twenty years, and is a man of many fine qualities.

James Campbell Andrews comes of one of the oldest families in Ross. His parents came to this township in 1811, and his father the next year after. His name was James, and his mother's maiden name was Mary Rife. She died in 1875. James C. Andrews was born in West Virginia, November 15, 1809. He was married November 26, 1840, to Lydia Dunn. She was the daughter of John Dunn, who died in 1835, being then sixty-five years old, and Letitia McCluskey, who was born in 1779, and died in 1847. They came to this county in 1805. Mr. and Mrs. Andrews have had four children: Martha was born August 18, 1841; Letty, July 16, 1844; William, October 25, 1847, and Albert, May 22, 1850. Letty died May 9, 1869. She was married to Jacob Kohler. Martha married John Bercaw, February, 1860. William married Lizzie Pollock. By these unions Mr. Andrews has seven grandchildren living. At the age of sixteen he began work at the blacksmith's trade, following it for sixteen years. Since that time he has paid all of his attention to the farm, and has by industry and good management made for himself and family a good home. His son William was in the hundred days' service, and his uncle, Robert Andrews, was in the War of 1812, and died soon after his return.

James Brown, the head of the Brown family in Ross Township, was born in West Virginia. His wife, Deborah Ryfe, was born in Pennsylvania. They had thyee children. Daniel was born in 1798, and died in April, 1876. Elizabeth was born in 1801, and William was born March 14, 1803. He is married and lives in Ross Township. Mr. James Brown had prepared to come to Ohio, but died in West Virginia. His widow and three children came on with a colony of nine families, and landed in Cincinnati, in May, 1805. She was married a second time about 1807, her choice being Frederick Whitinger, by whom she had two 'children, one dying in infancy, and the other, James Whitinger, being born in 1808. He is married, and lives in Rush County, Indiana. Mr. Whitinger's family, three brothers, came to Butler County about 1800. Their names were Jacob, Nicholas, and Francis. Frederick Whitinger was killed in 1810 by a flat-boat falling on him. His wife was well provided for, and brought up her family well. She died in Ross Township, Butler County, about 1864. William Brown was born in West Virginia, March 14, 1805, and was married in 1828 in Hamilton County, to Eunice - Willey, who was born there February 29, 1808, and died November 25, 1867. He had thirteen children, seven living, but six dying in infancy. The living ones are Daniel,

Richard, Henry, James, Oliver Perry, Walter, and Augusta. Mr. Brown is a self-made man. He began life with nothing, renting at first, in partnership with his brother, Daniel. In 1828 he purchased a small tract of land, part of Allen Fuller's, in Section 32, of thirty acres, where he went to live after he married. He stayed there in a hewed log-house until 1847, when he built his present residence. He has accumulated in his life-time considerable property, owning at one time three hundred and forty acres in Ohio and two hundred in Indiana. He has at present one hundred and thirty acres and considerable personal property. The remainder he has distributed among his children. His son, Daniel, has been justice of the peace three terms, real estate assessor one term, and township clerk thirteen years. His wife's father, Conrad Ryfe, was a soldier of the Revolution, and was wounded in the war.

Bennett Branch is a native of Butler County. He is a farmer, and lives near Millville. He was married May 20, 1860, and has had fourteen children, only six of whom are living. His wife's name is Eliza.

Frederick Bohlender was born in Germany, August 19, 1835. He is the son of George Bohlender and Mary Rerick. He came to this county in 1877. His wife is Mary Peeling, the daughter of Robert Peeling and Elizabeth Weise. She was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, December, 1836. They were married November, 1864, in Montgomery County, and have three children. George W. was born September 21, 1867; Ida M., October 29, 1871; and Edna A., January, 1876. Mr. Bohlender is a farmer and fruit-grower, and now carries on a fruit-farm, consisting of about sixty acres of orchard, besides all kinds of small fruits.

Charles Borger was born in Berks County, Pennsylvania, January 17, 1817, and came to this county in 1834. His father was Jacob Borger and his mother Mary M. Long, both now dead. An uncle, Daniel Long, was in the War of 1812. Mr. Borger was married on the 21st of November, 1838, in St. Clair Township, to Hannah Dubbs. Her parents were Henry Dubbs and Margaret Hannan, who came to this county in 1829, remaining here until their deaths. They had four children. Sarah Ann was born October 10, 1840; David D., March 18, 1843; Jacob H., November 14, 1846; and Margaret, March 30, 1851. All these are now living, except Jacob H., who was drowned in the Ohio River, while bathing, on the 20th of July, 1878, at Aurora, Indiana, leaving a widow, but no children, to mourn his loss. Sarah Ann married John A, Overpeck, August 18, 1860; David D. was married March 8, 18638, to Sarah A. Burckhardt; and Margaret was married Jan- 1872, to William F. Berleman. Nine grand- Mr. Borger has, sylvania, September 24, 1801, and has been a resident of this county for seventy-three years. When he came here this county was nothing but a wilderness. He saw the first steamboat that ran on the Ohio River. His parents were George Daniel Brosius and Elizabeth Yager. They came to the county in 1808. The father died in 1812, and the mother in 1823. Mr. Brosius married Elizabeth Parks, daughter of Arthur Parks and Elizabeth McCloskey, on the 8d of June, 1823, at Hamilton. She was born October 7, 1806. They had eleven children. Elizabeth was born June 15, 1824; William, June 13, 1827; James, September 26, 1828; John, July 9, 1830; Margaret, February 18, 1832; Isabel, December 12, 1835; Daniel, October 9, 1838 ; Rebecca, December 17, 1842; Eliza Ann, January 16, 1845; Jeannette, July 3, 1848; and Alice, April 13, 1850. Five of these children are dead. James died March 27, 1853; John, January 20, 1861; Rebecca, April, 1881; Eliza Ann, March 10, 1851, and Alice, April 8, 1851. Mr. Brosius has fourteen grandchildren now living. His wife died January 10, 1861. Whena young man he learned the cabinet-making trade, following it for a number of years. He then purchased a farm, and until within a few years paid all of his attention to it. Since then he has led a retired life. Christopher W. Cook is the son of Christopher and Mary Cook. They were natives of Prussia, and there their son was born, June 20, 1825. His wife, Elizabeth Swoope, was born in Bavaria, July 11, 1831. Her parents were George Swoope and Susan Fisher. They are both now dead. They came to Butler County in 1844, and Mr. Cook came here in 1845. Their marriage took place December 7, 1848. They have had eight children. The first was born November 18, 1849, and died four days thereafter. Mary C. was born August 99. 1852; George H. was born February 2, 1855; another child was born April 6, 1858, and died the next day. Frederick William was born October 19, 1860; Margaret was born January 28, 1864, dying March 15, 1864; John was born August 4, 1865; and Anna Elizabeth, December 4, 1867. one term. farmer. John A. Crawford was the son of John A. Crawford, Sen., and Mary Arthurs. He was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, December 26, 1826, and was married June 6, 1850, to Phebe McHenry, in Hamilton County. « Her parents were Joseph McHenry and Nancy Pottenger, and she was born in Hamilton County on the 27th of November, 1830. They had four children. Joseph H. was the eldest. He was born August 6, 1851. Mary E. was born April 15, 1853; Nancy E., August 31, 1856; Sarah B., February 3, 1860, and John N., May 31, 1862. Three of the children have been married. Nancy E. married William Bryant January 10, 1881; Sarah B. married Nathan Bryant January 11, 1881, and

Joseph H. married Eliza Delong July 15, 1875. She bore him two children, Leora May, September 8, 1876, and Walter Clarence, January 12, 1879, both still living. Their mother is dead. She died on the 24th of March, 1879. Joseph still lives on the farm occupied by his father, and, with his brother, John W., carries it on. Mary E. also lives at home. She teaches school, as did her two sisters prior to marriage. Mr. John A. Crawford was a cabinet-maker by trade, and generally followed that occupation, while his sons carried on the farm. At one time he was in the mercantile business. This was in the years 1868 and 1869. He was enrollment officer in Colerain Township, Hamilton County, during the late war. Mrs. Crawford's great-grandfather, Van McHenry, was a captain in the War of 1812. Her children's great-grandfather Nichols was also in the War of 1812. He was a sailor for twenty-two years. Mr. Crawford's death occurred January 12, 1880.