Marion County, Ohio - The Village of Marion - Marion Township, 1883 (part 2 of 2)

The Church of Christ at Marion, Ohio. - This church was organized in 1876, at the city hall, where they held their first meetings. T. D. Garvin was the minister, and the first members were A. and Louisa B. Boynton, B. J., Phebe and George Camp, L. Fite, Olive Brocklesby, John and Mary Weish, John, Sarah and Charles Uncapher, Stephen Norris, Dr. T. Martin, F. J. Sutton, John N. Matthews, Mary Simpson, Amanda and Susan Coffy, Esther Zimmerman, Lavina Keys, Margaret Allen, Harriet Turney, Mrs. Blackburn, A. M. and Helen Barney. The official members were L. Fite, B. J. Camp, George Camp, A. Boynton and A. M. Barney. Elders, C. Ghent, nine months; - - Davies, one year; W. H. Scott, one year; W. Dowling, since 1880; present membership, eighty-six, the increase be. ing mainly since they occupied their house of worship, May 23, 1880. They have now a flourishing Sunday school. i

Their fine church edifice is on North Main street, is 38x65 feet in dimensions, built of brick and: cost $7,000. It has a magnificent spire.

in a private house - the home of Mr. Gruber, two miles east of Marion. This society gradually increased in membership until 1848, when a large proportion of the members, who resided in and near Marion, organized a class within the incorporated limits of the town, and worshiped in a private dwelling. In 1850, this people accepted a proposition that had been made by the original proprietor of the village plat, namely, that any denomination first oocupying Lot No. 120 with a church building should have and hold the same as the property of said denomination. A frame structure, 53x38, was commenced in the spring of that year, and in August it was completed and dedicated to the worship of God. Revs. P. Flack, J. Davis. S. Lindsay, C. Briggs, B. W. Day and A. Berry were the preachers in charge of these societies up to 1859. Since 1860, Revs. W. Martin, Samuel Coulter, T. D. Ingle, F. Clymer, C. L. Barlow, 1. Crouse, D. R.

pastor, Rev. A. E: Davis. From the organization to the present, the average number of members has been eighty-two; the greatest number at any time was 150, and the lowest number fifty-five; it is now 107. Jn 1866-67, under the supervision of Rev. I. Crouse, the congregation built a very neat parsonage, at a cost of $900, upon Lot No. 119, purchased for $300, which amount was left by will of Abram Young for that purpose.

In 1870, under the superintendency of Rev. D. R. Miller, pastor, the church house was refitted and improvements made upon the parsonage at a cost of $920. Present Class-Leader, Abraham Myers; average attendance at Sunday school, about sixty-five, with seven or eight -teachers; J. B. Bolander, Superintendent.

St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church. - The name " Roman" is probably a mistake. The house of worship, a substantial brick structure, on North West street, about 45x60 feet in dimensions, was erected in 1862. Father Burns is the present priest. A flourishing school is kept in a building belonging to the church on North Main street, directly across the square from the church.

First Sunday School

The first Sunday school in Marion was a "union" school under the regime of the American Sunday School Union, and was organized in 1828. The first Superintendent was probably J. Wildbahn. Richard Wilson was an aetive teacher. In course of time, the Methodist and other denominations established Sunday schools of their own, and for many years past each church has a Sunday school for itself.

The first burying ground in Marion was "down on the hill," on a lot belonging to the Berry family, on East street, near Canal, now occupied by John Gurley. Very few, however, were buried there before a regular public cemetery was started, just north of the present New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio depot, on land donated for the purpose by Eber Baker. This ground has been enlarged by additions, and is still kept sacred as a burying ground, although a few remains have been removed to the new cemetery. The original plat and accompanying papers were lost, but a re-survey 1s on record. ; would or who could see that they were properly cared for, nor had any one the means to improve or even keep in repair the burial grounds of the village. Besides ail these difficulties, the grounds chosen were not fit for the purpose of burial, and feeling the force of these combined difficulties in the way of the old burial grounds, a number of publie-spirited citizens inaugurated a movement for the purchase of suitable new grounds for burial purposes.

Following is a short sketch of this movement which resulted by the purchase of the grounds now owned by * The Marion Cemetery Association," now one of the best improved and most beautiful cemeteries to be found in this or any other section of the country, owned by the citizens of a town or city no larger than Marion. The names of the parties engaged in this comruendable work are also given that they may receive the honor they so well deserve from their fellow-citizens of Marion County.

Public attention was first called to the condition of the old graveyard, its crowded lots, its flat surface, the water-holding qualities of its soil, and the many adjacent railroads and saloons, ky an anonymous correspondent of the Independent, whose communications, signed " Israel Fishbones" pictured in graphic style, funerals interrupted by passing trains, or by almost tragedies in the saloons adjoining the outgrown graveyard.

As a result of these communications, a meeting was called July 3, 1857, at the banking house of J. S. Reed & Co., to take into consideration the acknowledged necessity existing for a suitable cemetery. Pursuant to notice, the meeting was held and the "Marion Cemetery Association" made its preliminary organization. The following persons signed the original articies:

The association encountered great opposition, and for years struggled hard to maintian itself. The members loaned it money and gave, gratuitously, their time and labor toward its development. Many respectable persons believed that it was only a speculation entered into for gain, and, though invited to join and become conversant with its workings, held aloof for want of proper information. The struggle with adversity continued till the spring of 1873, when the association was free from debt, had a balance in its treasury, and the way for much needed improvements was open and unobstructed.

The grounds occupied by the cemetery were selected by a committee appointed at the second meeting of the association, namely, J. S. Reed, John Ault and E. Peters.

They spent considerable time examining lands adjacent to town, testing the character of the soil. accessibility, natural adaptation to the purpose of burial, ease of improvement and price of lands. But little of the ground is strictly level; beautiful slopes and finely shaped ridges add to the beauty of the place and enhance its value for the purpose designed. On much of the grounds were then (and are yet) standing forest trees of many kinds common to the country, many of them noble specimens of their various kinds. Under the system of improvement adopted and carried out, all the land owned by the association can be used for burial purposes, though many years will elapse before the level portions will be -:eeded, and these portions, by contemplated improvements, will not remain level, but will be broken into such shapes as will add vastly to their beauty, value ard use fulness.

Marion Cemetery Vault, Ohio

The association and its cemetery are no longer experimental, but both are acknowledged successes, and but few ever think of burying their dead in the "Old Graveyard," while from the country, for miles around, the association gathers in lot-owners. The cemetery is the most beautiful and inviting grounds open to the public in the vicinity, and in pleasant weather are visited by multitudes of people, who wander under the trees and along the beautiful, well-kept avenues.

The Jands purchased were from the following-named persons, with the number of acres purchased from each: James Bowen, 12.3 acres; Nathan Peters, 19.0 acres; H. Gorton, 21.2 acres; and S. S. Bennett, .5 acres; total, 47.0 acres. 'The original cost of these forty-seven acres was $4,347.50. Marion Township Trustees purchased from the association five acres of land, for the sum of $500, and on May 3, 1858, nearly three acres were sold to the Roman Catholic Church of Marion, for burial purposes, at $125 per acre, all sold subject to the rules and regulations of the Cemetery Association. In 1878, the association re-purchased from the Marion Township Trustees three acres of the grounds held by them, so that the association now holds forty-two acres of land.

The association, in 1857, elected Dr. H. A. True to superintend the laying-out of lote, avenues, lawns, paths, etc., and platting the same, and to make all maps, plats, etc., needed. The work was done to the entire satisfaction of the association, and with but a few alterations his plans are in use to this time.

For many years there were but few improvements made. The association was so burdened with debt, and their enterprise met with such opposition, that it was difficult to sell burial lois to raise money to either pay off debts or to make needed improvements. But at last, by adopting the policy of making constant efforts to sell burial lots to persons who expected to remain citizens of Marion and the vicinity, and thus to enlist them with their influence, in working for the asscciation, money enough was raised to cancel the entire debt, and in 1873 the association became free to use its money obtained from selling burial lots to.improve and beautify the grounds.

The services of Mr. I. Kessler, were secured to act as Superintendent, and he was employed constantly upon the grounds, which rapidly assumed a new appearance. Brush and weeds took their departure. Cleanliness and order assumed sway, and from that time on improvements have been made of a lasting and beautifying nature. A comfortable frame dwelling was erected upon the grounds in 1875, for the use of the Superintendent. The avenues were, to a large extent, graded and graveled, such portions of the avenues being in eonstant use, and are now in very fine condition, be. ing smooth, clean and solid. A double artificial lake, which was begun as an experiment, has been dug, whieh contains water the year round, pure and sweet, so that fish live in it and increase rapidly. Tile drains have been put down in many portions of the grounds. All open ditehes, except one, have been supplied with large tiles and covered, adding much to the sightliness of the grounds.

A number of assistants are employed during thespring, summer and fall of each year, working upon the grounds, under the direction of the Superintendent, putting in order the cemetery and aiding in making improvements. The association has all needed implements of its own, to do its work, inciud- ing derrick for putting up large monuments, and has its own horse, wagon, mowers, etc. A neat, substantial barn has been put up the past fall A good tool house is also on the grounds. In fact, all the buildings now needed upon the cemetery are now upon it and paid for.

The Receiving Vault. - As early as 1878, a resolution was passed by the association that a receiving vault should be built at as early & date as possible, but as the matter was left discretionary with the Trustees, nothing was done until the money was on hand to pay for the building of it. In 1879, a feeling that the time had come for action, the Trustees, A. H. Kling, P. O. Sharpless and George Crawford, after receiving all the information they could in reference to such structures, and after examining plans offered for their inspection, decided in favor of a plan, with specifieations furnished by D. W. Gibbs, architect, Toledo, Ohio. "The materials used in its construction are brick for the double arch of tbe vault proper, limestone with Berea stone trimmings for the front walls; the vestibule is floored with black and white tile and is ceiled with ash; the vault is floored with cement, and has, for use on funeral occasions, a fine carpet, curtains, etc., taking from it the gloomy appearance often seen in receptacles for the dead. A glance at the building will show that it is a beautiful yet massive structure, and upon examination it will be found to be as nearly perfect as a building of the kind can be, being almost perfect in ventilation, free from dampness, darkness and gloom. The vault proper is provided with solid iron doors, with a fine combination lock, the cómbination of which is only known to the proper officers of the association. The vestibule is provided with a heavy grated iron door, with strong Seandinavian lock.

The bodies of the dead placed in this vault are free from danger of the desecrating hands of the resurrectionist, and are safe till they are of no further use for dissection, when they are buried. The construction of this vault has rendered the employment of watchers at graves unnecessary.

The cost of this beautiful and safe receiving vault, including the grading of grounds in its immediate vicinity, and the construction of a graveled avenue thirty-two feet wide in its front, was $2,500. This vault has proved to be not only an object pleasing to look at by the association, but it has proved to be what the people at large wanted, and they now commit the bodies of their friends to its keeping. feeling sure they are safe from the hands of the spoilers. It has also stimulated the sale of burial lots, especially to parties from the couniry and from the villages in the county, so that we feel that our cemetery is not for Marion alone, but for the couniy at large. 1

Burial Lots. - The burial lots are laid out in various sizes. so that all persons ean be suited in the quantity of ground, as wellas in location. The price is uniform for all grounds in proper shape, fifteen cents per square foot being the price charged at this time - 1880. Grading and putting lots in shape, will, as far as possible, be done by the association, so that the grade may harmonize with the general features of the particular locality. Those who desire to secure but a single grave can do so, without purchasing more ground, as the association has set aside good, eligible ground for that purpose, situated on the south hill. The association assumes the care of lots, so far as keeping them free from weeds, briers. and brush or long grass are concerned. If the lawn mower is used npon a lot, a small charge is made.

passed that 10 per cent of all the moneys realized from the sale of lots should be set apart and put on interest, the proceeds of such-loans to be applied to keep the grounds in order for all future time, when necessary to use such proceeds. That fund is already respectable in size, and in a few years will be abundantly ample of itself to keep in fine order the entire cemetery grounds. Aside from this permanent fund the ability of the association to improve and keep its grounds in order will not be questioned by any one at all acquainted with its plans and working.

work done by an experienced workman, with the best materials to be obtained, at a very moderate eost, the object being to secure permanent and firm foundations so that monuments erected thereon will stand erect. . While the Marion Cemetery contains no very costly monuments at present, yet there are quite a large number of very fine ones, many of granite, many of marble of various kinds, and a few of zine bronze, a new material for monumental purposes, beautiful in appearance and claimed to be very durable. In the styles of monuments, there is great variety, thus affording a pleasing effect to the eye, not at all monotonous and uninteresting as too much sameness in style would produce Granite is rapidly taking the place of less costly material for monumental purposes, lot-owners iaking a commendable pride in erecting good, substantial and stylish monuments, partaking of the spirit of improvement manifested by the Cemetery Association and seconding the efforts to render the cemetery a beautiful and at. tractive spot.

Those who became members of the association at the first meeting were John Ault, J. S. Reed, S. S. Bennett, H. A. True, J. J. Williams, B. H. Willams, Patten & Wallace, John Ballantine, J. B. Dumble, E. Peters, J.' W. Bain, Bowen & Beerbower, J. H. Godman and W. H. Sarles. Since then the following have become members: D. Jameson, T. B. Fisher, J. Hood, John Gurley, E. D. Lindsey, A. H. Kling, P. O. Sharpless, H. S. Lueas, J. J. Hane, John Merrill, O. Bowen, George Crawford, E. Hoch, C. Smith, S. E. DeWolfe, W. Z. Davis, Henry True and W. P. Hazen.

The officers have been S. S. Bennett, President from July 25, 1857, to April 14, 1879; J. J. Williams, President from April 14, 1879, to the present; Dr. H. A True, Secretary and Treasurer from July 25, 1857, to April, 1859; J. W. Bain, from April 4, 1859, to April 7, 18602; Dr. H. A. True, from April 7, 1862, until his death in 1876; J. J. Hane, from January, 15, 1877, to the present. H. I. Kessler was Superintendent from1873 until his death in 1880; then A. B. Allen until April, 1882, when the present Superintendent, John Dairy, was appointed. The present Trustees are P. O. Sharpless, George Crawford and A. H. Kling.

Secret Societies

Marion Lodge, No. 70, F. & A. M. - Under dispensation issued by M. W. Grand Master William James Reese, of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, dated Lancaster, Ohio, July 18, 1840, the following Master Masons met in Marion on September 19, 1840 (tradition says in one of the < fices of the court house), and organized by opening a lodge of Master Masons, with the following brothers in the chairs and stations: John G. Bruce, W. M.; John Bartram, S. W.; Elisha Hardy, J. W.; Greenville P. Cherry, S. D. ; Sanford S. Bennett, J. D.; Joseph W. Larrabee, Secretary; Richard Wilson,

Treasurer; Olney R. Stone, Tiler; and George H. Busby, member, and William Trago, of Amity Lodge, No. 5, visitor. After adopting by-laws, certain officers were elected, so that the board stood as follows, the three first being named in the dispensation: J. G. Bruce, W. M.; Moses H. Kirby, S. W.; Elisha Hardy, J. W.; Richard Wilson, Treasurer; Joseph W. Larrabee, Secretary; Greenville P. Cherry, S. D.; Sanford S. Bennett, J. D.; Olney R. Stone, Tiler and Steward. A charter was granted October 21, 1841, and the following were the first officers thereafter: John Bartram, W. M.; Riehard Wilson, S. W.; B. Warner, J. W.; George Gray, Treasurer; Joseph W. Larrabee, Secretary; J. J. Garwood, S. D.; Henry Bretz, J. D. ; John Wildbahn, Tiler and Steward.

The lodge held its meetings in the Bartram building on Main street from the time of its organization to 1855, when, the lodge growing too large for the room, they rented and used the Odd Fellows Hall, on Main street, to June 27, 1856, when they rented Apollo Hall, on Center street, in Bennett's block, of Messrs. Fisher & Reed. Here they remained until 1871, when they contracted for the right to build a third story on a building on Center street, erected by Messrs. Johnson, True, and others, and which was afterward known as the Masonic Block, and on June 30, 1871, occupied said. Masonic Hall for the first time. On May 4, 1877, the Masonic Hall, used by Lodge, Chapter and Council, was destroyed by fire. The Council and Chapter lost everything, and all the articles belonging to the lodge which were saved were the charter and record books and papers, the seal, the jewels, the three great lights (the Bible was found June 4, 1877, in a bookstore), the low twelve bell, sixteen volumes of the library and three pavels. By an arrangement with Kosciusko Lodge, No. 58, I. O. O. F., and under a dispensation issued by C. A. Woodward, M. W. Grand: Master-of Ohio, Marion Lodge met at Odd Fellows Hall from May 25, 1877, until March 15, 1878, when they met for the first time in their new hall, rebuilt and furnished.

On June 24, 1878, "St. John's Day," the lodge room was publicly dedi. cated by Past Grand Master A. H. Newcomb, Deputy of Most Worthy Grand Master, with the solemn and impressive ceremonies of the ritual.

Marion Council, No. 22, R. & S. M. - This lodge was organized under a dispensation dated February 26, 1856, with twenty-three members and the following officers: T. B. Fisher, Thrice Illustrious Master; J. A. Kellam, Deputy Illustrious Master; J. S. Reed, Principal Director of the Work. There are now about thirty members, who meet in Masonic Hall, the first Wednesday after the second Tuesday of January, March, May, July, September and November. The Council is in a sound financial condition.

Present officers: Philip Dombaugh, T. I. M.; Jacob R. Harschberger, D. I. M.; F. C. Ruehrmund, P. D. of W.; Henry True, Treasurer; W. H. Eckhart, Recorder; J. Strelitz, Captain of the Guard, Charles E. Smith, ` Conductor of the Council; Charles Smith, Steward; P. Dietrich, Sentinel.

Marion Chapter, No. 62, R. A. M. - The records of this lodge were destroyed by fire in 1877. Dispensation was received from the Grand Lodge, December 5, 1854. The first members were T. B. Fisher, George H. Busby, James S. Reed, John Bartram, Charles Smith, James H. Godman, Richard Wilson and J. Rice. The following were officers under the dispensation: T. B. Fisher, High Priest: George H. Busby, King; J. S. Reed, Scribe; Philip Dombaugh, Captain of the Host; John Bartram, Prineipal Sojourner; Charles Smith, Royal Arch Captain; James H. God- man, Grand Master of the Third Veil; Samuel H. Bartram, G. M. 'of Second Veil; T. H. Dickerson, G. M. of First Veil; John T. Merchant, Treasurer; J. S. Reed, Secretary; Philip Dietrich, Guard. The lodge was organized in 1855, and has been active ever sinte. The first meetings were held in Bartram's building; next in Bennett/s block; then in the Masonic Hall, 'which was burned in 1877; then temporarily in Odd Fellows Hall, untii the new Masonic Block was finished, since which time it has met there. There are now over à hundred members, who meet the second Tuesday in each month. The lodge owes no debts, and has money in the treasury.

Present officers - John A. Wolford, H. P.; E. E. Henry, K.; James A. Knapp, S.; J. Strelitz, C. of H.; C. Smith, R. A. C.; Elmoe Smith, G. M. of the Third Veil; William Bland, G. M. of the Second Veil; J. W. Hinds, G. M. of the First Veil; S. E. DeWolfe, Treasurer; W. E. Moore, Secretary; P. Dietrich, G.

Marion Commandery, No. 36, Knights Templar. - The dispensation for this lodge was granted May 25, 1880, and the charter September 16, 1880. The first officers were: T. B. Fisher, Eminent Commander; Sidney Moore, Generalissimo; F. R. Saiter, Captain General; J. E. Julian, Prelate; George Williams, S. W.; J. F. McNeal, J. W.; James H. Reed, Treasurer; W. H. Eckhart, Recorder; J. W. Alsop, Standard Bearer; S. R. Dumble, Sword Bearer; Charles E. Smith, Warder; Isaac Uncapher, Sentinel. The original number of members was thirty-three; there are now about 105, and the Commandery is in an excellent financial condition. Meetings, the sec. ond Thursday of each month, in Masonic Hall.

Kosciusko Lodge, No. 58, I. O. O. F. - This society commenced under a dispensation granted in 1846, with T. P. Wallace, J. P. Gray, William Robbins, J. Seitz, G. W. Howe and R. F. Gray. J. P. Gray is still a member. The lodge was organized also in 1846, by Albert S. Day, G. M., with Rev. G. W. Howe, N. G.; Mr. Knapp, Secretary; and J. P. Gray, V. G. Meetings were at first held iu Bartram's block and Bain's building until about 1852; when the third story was added, they began to meet there. Present membership, about ninety-five. Present officers - 5. T. Beerbower, N. G.; John F. Young, V. G.; William Fies, Per. Secretary; John Dairy, Recording Secretary; Charles Stose, Treasurer. In treasury, $3,592. Lodge meets every Monday evening.

Mizpah Encampment, No. 50. - Dispensation was received May 14, 1851. First members, J. M. Horton, H. S. Camp, R. C. Kirk, J. Ullman, M. T. Mills, J. R. Gooding, J. E. Davids and J. Naylor. On the first night, Messrs. Peters, Reed and Knapp were initiated. The Encampment was organized at the above date, by P. Pat. W. T. Slater. The society has always been in active operation, holding their meetings now in their own lodge room, the first and third Tuesdays of the month, and having about $1;800 in the treasury. Present number of mem. rs, seventy-three; officers, William Burns, C. P.; J. N. Matthews, H. P.; J. Kedd, S. W.; M. Keil, J. W.; J. Dairy, Scribe; C. Stose, Treasurer.

Marion Lodge, No. 1,767, Knights of Honor, was organized by J. B. King, August 28, 1879, with the following charter members and officers: W. S. Drake, Dictator; H. W. Riley, V. Dictator; John Diebold, Sr., A. Dictator; H. Morrill, Guide; S. D. Myers, Chaplain; J. A. Knapp, Reporter; B. S. Runyan, F. Reporter; T. J. McMurray, Treasurer; N. Stoll, Guardian; H. J. Kessler, Sentinel; A. B. MeMurray, M. Examiner and Past Dictator; F. R. Saiter, B. Tristram, J. Kishler, J. B. Dutton, J. Sauer, C. C. Pettit, Charles Terpany, James Jacoby, James Swinnerton, Frederick Diebold, A. B. Allen, S. Fogleson, D. L. Stouffer, C. Turney, J. B. Wyatt, J. W. Shumaker, J. B. Lutz. Present number of » members, thirty-six. Financial condition, good. Meet first and third Thursdays of each month in the Williams Block. Since organization, H. T. Kessler and John Diebold, Sr., have died, and their families received the full benefit, $2,000, within sixty days.

Present officers - O. A. Busard, D.; W. D. Whipps, V. D.; M. A. Bover, A. D.; J. W. Shumaker, R.; S. Fogleson, F. R.; T. J. McMurray, Treasurer; M. Stoll, C.; A. B. Allen, G.; H. D. Morrill, Gen.; William Leeper, S.; A. B. McMurray, Med. Examiner; J. B. Lutz, H. D. Morrill, M. Stoll, Trustees; H. W. Riley, J. W. Shumaker and H. D. Morrill, Anditing Committee.

Olentangy Council, No. 355, Royal Arcanum, was organized July 17, 1879, by H. E. W. Campbell, Depnty Grand Regent of Ohio, with the following charter members and officers: J. E. Julian, Regent; A. H. Hord, Vice Regent; H. G. Welty, Orator; Henry True, Past Regent; T. C. Bowen, Secretary; O. W. Weeks, Collector; Julius Strelitz, Treasurer; E. B. Crouse, Chaplain; M. Barnhart, Guide; Samuel R. Dumble, C. H. Martin, J. L. Bell, D. G. Felty, U. F. Seffner, T. H. Linsley, J. E. Crow, Ira Uhler, L. Denison, W. H. Moses, William Muntsinger, Robert W. Burns, J. B. Gottshall, H. M. Barnhart, P. E. Dombaugh and James D. Gregory. Since organization there has been but one death among its members - that of Dr. J. M. Christian. The Council meets in the third story of Fahey's block, the first and third Monday evenings of each month. Financial standing, excellent. There are now seventy-two members.

ganized September 10, 1878, by George M. Bricher and W. P. Clark. First officers and members: W. B. Dorward, P. P.; W. P. Clark, P.; H. R. Young, V. P.; George M. Bricher, M. of F. and C.; W. E. Scofield, Recording Secretary; H. R. Bunker, Financial Secretary; Frederick Haberman, Treasurer: W. R. Garberson, Conductor; James Williams, I. G.; Frank Linn, O. G.; H. C. Haberman, W. F. Hammer, B. F. Bryant, George Meily, J. N. Jones, Cass Wilson, T. J. Moore, W. Silverthorn, John Leffler, G. W. Turney, Camden Stone, Sidney Young, A. H. Kling, Jr., F. H. Tristram, C. F. Crouse, C. H. Martin and F. B. Barrett. Present membership, sixty-one. The Camp meets Thursday evenings, the Council (Excelsior), the second Thursday, and the Commandery, the first Thursday of each month, in the P. O. S. of A. Hall, in the Cummin Block. Financial condition, good. 7 Present officers - James H. Richards, P. P.; John Cocherl, P.; William Dairy, V. P.; George L. Phelps, M. of F. and C.; H. M. Mumford, Recording Secretary; Hiram Uncapher, Financial Secretary; Frederick Hab. erman, Treasurer; Herman Uncapher, Conductor; M. J. Mackey, I. G.; J. W. Crawley, O. G.

Marion Lodge, No. 2, Prudential Order of America. - Organized Feb. ruary 24, 1882, by John Blanchard, Supreme Ruler, with the following membership: A. B. McMurray, M. Stoll, R. T. Smith, M. V. Payne, G. L. Phelps, J. Thompson, J. B. Lutz, E. R. Shook, J. T. Shadaker, J. W. Shumaker, T. H. Dickerson, G. T. Harding, A Longenbaugher, C. Hoberman and P. E. McClann. Present number of members, fifty-one, who meet io Williams Hall This is a mutual insurance association for both sickness and death, and is in good financial condition. Present officers - M. Stoll, Past R.; George L. Phelps, E. R.; C. Hoberman, V. R.; J. B. Lutz, Recorder and Treasurer; R. T. Smith, F. R. ;

Cooper Post, No. 117, G. .A. R. - This was organized August 12, 1881, by Col. A. H. Brown, of Toledo, with about forty ex-soldiers as charter members, in the hall of the Royal Arcanum in the Fahey Block. The following were the officers elected: Valentine Lapham, Commander; George B. Christian, S. V. C.; T. H. Dickerson, J. V. C.; William Rapp, Adjutant; Dr. O. W. Weeks, Surgeon; F. R. Saiter, Q. M.; John J. Williams, Officer of the Day; Charles Showers, Officer of the Guard; S. Fogle. son, Sergeant Major; T. J. McMurray, Commissary; S. R. Dumble, Assistant Inspector of the Post. The Post was named after Burt and Edward Cooper, brothers, both of whom lost their lives in the war. Burt was the first from Marion County to receive the blood baptism, and Edward was shot and killed after the war had virtually elosed. Two other brothers also served in the war, one of whom lost his arm and the other's days were shortened by disease.

The number of members in August, 1883, was fully eighty, and it is rapidly increasing. The present officers are: W. C. Rapp, Post Commander; O. A. Busard, Senior Vice Commander: A. B. Allen, Junior Vice Commander; Charles Showers, Quartermaster; John Cocherl, Chaplain; Dr. R. L. Sweney, Surgeon; M. V. Payne, Officer of the Day; John Shumaker, Adjutant; F. M. Whipps, Officer of the Guard; George Crabb, Quartermaster Sergeant; Samuel Harberson, Sergeant Major _

Marion Grove, No. 27, U.A. O. D. (Druids). - The dispensation was received April 6, 1870, at which date the lodge was also organized, with the following members: J. Diebold, G. Leffler, Jacob Blaich, Frederick Die- bold, John Stengel, Jacob Weber, J. Keller, L. Drollinger, John Schneider, H. Akerman, F. Bausinger, Frank Eberle, Christian Kuertzler, M. Brigel, M. Albrecht, William Kraner and others. The organizing officers were: E. G., E. Heinz; U. E., H. Hanz; Secretary, H. Weizel; I. W., J. Grau, and F. G. Brand, all of Columbus, Ohio. The first officers were: John Diebold, E. E.; G. Leffler, U. E.; Jacob Weber, Secretary; John Stengel, Treasurer; Ferdinand Bausinger, I. W.; J. Blaich, R. H. D. E. E.; H. Schaffner, L. E D. E. E.; F. Diebold, R. H. U. E.; P. Fetter, L. H. U.. E.; L. Drollinger, F.; Frederick Kowalke, Ae. W. Meetings were held at Behner's Hall until May 1, 1872, then at Bennetts Hall until May 1, 1878, and since that time in the Masonic Block. Present number of members, thirty-five; present officers, G. Lefflor, E. E., who is also Representative and District Deputy; F. Eberle, U. E.; J. Blaich, Secretary; J. Stengel, Treasurer; A. Kraner, I. W.; J. Glick, Ae. W.; M. Albrecht, F. The lodge has $1,500 in the treasury; meets Wednesday evenings.

The Good Templars trst organized in Marion July 29, 1858, at the oftice of Dr. Maxwell, with the following officers: W. B. Merriman, W. C. T.; Miss Saliie Randall, V. W. C. T.; W. H. King, W. Secretary; J. S. Dudley, W. Marshal; Miss Lou Hoxter, W. I. Guard; W. Lindsey, W. O. Guard; S. R. Green, W. Treasurer; W. B. Williams, W. Chaplain; C. C. Godman, W. Financial Secretary. This organization was effected under the presidency of the Deputy, George Towne, of Crestline. The order flourished well for a time, but went entirely down. It was revived again after the war, but died the second time, and there is now no lodge of that order in Marion. For a sketch of the cause of temperance in Marion and the county, see Chapter IX.

A Lodge Member In Arrears

* There is in Marion an excellent old gentleman who is a little delinquent in attending his favorite lodge. Indeed, he is in arrears for dues about $20. The lodge, unwilling to expel him, appointed a committee to advise with him. They visited him, talked nicely to him about the beauties of the order, and explained how necessary it was for him to be in good standiug in case he should be suddenly called away. Said one of them: 'If you were to pass in your checks now, the lodge wouldn't be permitted to attend your funeral in a body, and oh! what a mortification it would be if such a calamity should overtake us! And, do you xnow, brother, we have the nicest new funeral regalia you ever saw, and during our long existence as a lodge we never were so well prepared for a corpse. Now, pay up your arrears, be in shape for a close call, and don't deprive your brothers of the pleasure of attending your funeral."

" The old fellow began to wilt. He seemed to see the tinsel and gold prancing around his hearse, and how proud his friends were of the funeral, and with a half sob he uttered, 'Pard, how much do I owe the lodge?' ' Why, its only $20. '$20! Well pards, just as soon as I can raise the money Pll pay it; but in the meantime, if I should be taken away kind o sudden before them dues are paid, come anyhow and view the remains, and if you can't wear your regalia, bring along your umbrellers.' " - Mirror.

Educational

e As soon as there was a sufficient number of children in Marion to justify the hiring of a school teacher, a school was started; and before the village was seven years old, a brick schoolhouse was erected on West street, which, as before mentioned, was used for many years as a schoolhouse, church, court house, etc.; indeed, school was kept there until about 1850 or a little afterward. The building is now occupied as a dwell. ing. In addition to the regular-public school, sometimes a small select school would be kept for a time, altogether supported, of course, by subscription.

Marion Academy. - -This, the first institution of the kind in Marion County, was opened January 5, 1841, by John J. Williams, Esq,, with thirty-five pupils, in Masonic Hall, over what is now Krause's store. All the higher branches preparatory to the college course were taught, and in connection with the school was a faculty, consisting of Ozias Bowen, Pres ident; Drs. H. A. True and T. B. Fisher, Rev. Bruce, etc., who delivered lectures in their respective departments. The first term comprised five months. The ensuing fall the institution was opened with 115 pupils, and Mrs. Williams was employed as assistant teacher. This year the academy was kept in a stone building on Main street, now owned by Mrs. Walters and occupied as a saddle and harness shop. Some of the pupils were from a distance, having heard of the excellence of the school. Among the eminent men educated here were Dr. John Davis, Rev. W. D. Godman, a distinguished clergyman, now residing in Mississippi; Dr. Thomas Boyd, now of Beaver, Penn., and several others. | Witnessing the prosperity of the institution, the citizens purchased a lot and erected upon it an academy building, and Mr. Williams going into the law practice, Solomon Shepherd, a graduate of the Ohio University, was employed as Principal. He was sueceeded by W. L. Terrill a short time, but the school began to decline on account of free schools coming up, and in 1853 the building was sold. It is now Bieber's flouring mill.

Public Schools. - 'These coming into existence, of course absorbed the support of private schools. In Marion, as weil as in the State generally, the free school system was of early but slow growth; and not until about the time the present State Constitution was adopted did it come to full maturity. In the original plat of Marion by Mr. Baker, Lots Nos. 119 and 142_were given for school pnrposes. The former of {tuese was sold, and is now occupied by the United Brethren church and parsonage; on the' latter was erected the famous brick schoolhouse, elsewhere described. About 1843-44, the forementioned academy was built, which was the principal school building for several years; then the old stone church (Methodist), now occupied by the Huber works, and finally the " Center " building.

Pursuant to public [notice] given according to an act of the Legislature passed Feb - ruarv 21, 1849, entitled, '' An act for the better regulation of schools in towns, cities," etc., the legal voters of the town of Marion, Marion Co., Ohio, met in the court house in said town on Saturday, the 19th day of April, 1851, and organized by appointing J. R. Knapp, Chairman, Jacob Burger, Assistant Chairman, and E. Peters, Clerk. :

Whereupon, the meeting proceeded to vote by ballot for and against the adoption of said above mentioned act, the result of which ballot was sixty votes for and nine votes against the adoption. Whereupon said act was declared duly adopted.

A regular election notice was then issued by J. R. Knapp, Chairman, and E. Peters, * Clerk," dated April 23, 1851, calling the voters together on the 3d day of May ensuing, "for the purpose of electing six Directors in conformity to" the act of the Legislature. The election was duly held, with the following result:

On the evening of the same day, Mr. Bartram was elected President of the Board, Mr. Concklin, Clerk, and B. H. Williams, Treasurer. Rev. G. Sturgis was appointed School Examiner for one year; Peter -- - - - - for two years, and H. A. True for three years. On May 10, Mr. Concklin resigned, and Joha J. Williams was appointed Secretary in his stead, and L. H. Randall, a member of the board to fill the vacancy. A resolution was adopted at the first meetinz to notify the Directors of the several distriets theretofore composing this district of the organization of the new Board.

For comparison with what is required of teachers at the present day, the reader may notice that by resolution this board determined not to employ any teacher unless qualified to teach reading, writing. arithmetic, English grammar and geography. James McCoy was employed to teach in the schoolhouse in the northwest portion of the district, at the rate of $22 per month, " for such a length of time only as this board may think fit and proper."

Mr. Bartram resigned, and two days afterward, E. Peters was appointed to fill the vacancy, both as member and as President. The term " quarter" was decided to be sixty-six days. May 13, Timothy. Chase was employed as teacher for three months, at $22 a month. and Miss L. A. Baker at $12 a month. May 16, resolved to open school in the schoolhouse in the northeast part of the distriet.

July 31, John Gurley was appointed to fill he vacancy occasioned by the death of L. H. Randall. W. L. Terrill was employed as Principal of the Union Schools for one year, from October 1 ensuing, at the rate of $500 a year, * if he and the board can so long agree." Some time after. ward - no date assigned - the board employed Miss Hoft, Mrs. Johnson, Mrs. Sarah Clark, Miss L. Busby, Miss Geiger and Miss E. Wildbahn as teachers - all at the rate of $12 a month, except Miss Hoft, who should receive $350 a year.

1858- - E. B. Olmsted, Superintendent; Mrs. A. J. Olmsted, Principal; J. M. Heller, Rev. S. D. Bates, Miss C. Beardsley, Anna Geiger, Miss A. Powers, Miss A. Cooper, Miss M. P. Hoxter, Mrs. R. A. Johnson and Miss L. Adams.

1859 - E. B. Olmsted, Superintendent; Mrs. A. J. Olmsted, Princi. pal; Mrs. C. Fisher, Mrs. A. Powers, Mrs. R. A. Johnson, Mrs. M. P. Hume, Miss H. N. Argel, Miss I. Peterson, Mrs. L. Mann, Miss L. Adams, J. M. Heller, J. L. Marquis, Miss R. E. Brockett, Miss E. Shepherd, L. Hoxter, Miss A. E. Smith and W. B. Raymond.

1860 - E. B. Olmsted, Superintendent; Miss C. J. Case, Prof. U. Glasser, Dr. H. A. True, D. S. Jones, Mrs. M. P. Elliott, Mrs. M. P. Hume, Miss A. Conley, Miss M. B. Williams, Miss A. Geiger, Mrs. R. A. Johnson.

1861 - S. A. Cravath, Superintendent; Mrs. M. R. Cravath, D. S. Jones, Mrs. L. Bates, Miss Belle DeWolfe, Miss Ann Conley, Miss Maria Smith, Miss A. E. Cameron, Miss Ann Geiger, Mrs. R. A. Johnson.

1862 - S. A. Cravath, Miss Cornelia Branch, Miss Annie Conley, Miss E. A. Cameron, Miss Mary B. Williams, Miss Annie Geiger, D. S. Jones, Mrs. R. A. Johnson, Mrs. A. J. Olmstead, Mrs. M. P. Hume.

. 1863 - A. H Lowrie, Superintendent; G. H. Bombaugh, J. J. Robinson, Miss Virginia Sharp, Mrs. A. H. Lowrie, Miss Eliza A. Cameron, Miss Mary B. Williams, Mrs. R. A. Johnson, Miss Annie Geiger, Miss C. Branch.

1864 - A. H. Lowrie, Superintendent; Mrs. A. H. Lowry, Miss Mary McFadden, Miss Anna Geiger, D. S. Jones, Miss E. A. Cameron, Miss C. Branch, Mrs. R. A. Johnson, Miss S. D. Adams, Miss M. B. Williams.

1865 - -J. Hanson, Superintendent; Miss H. N. Angel, Miss P. Zuck, Miss A. L. Gilmer, Miss S. A. Hoover, Miss E. A. Cameron, Miss S. Pressley, Miss Laura Hardy, Miss Mary McFadden.

1867 - W. Watkins, Mrs. T. W. Cuscaden, Mics E. A. Cameron, Miss A. M. Morris, W. A. Phillips, Miss Norton, Ella Burrill, Louisa Cope, Mrs. R. A. Johnson and Miss Laura Hardy. ;

For the year ending August 31, 1882, the total receipts, including balance from the preceding year, were $22,165.51; total expenditures, $14,. 706.03; leaving a balance of $7,459.48; $5,616 were paid to Primary teachers and $2,389.44 to High School teachers. The amount paid for supervision, exclusive of teaching, was $482.50. Fuel and contingent expenses. $6,218.09. Value of school property, $55,000, of which $15,000 was in the First Ward and $40,000 in the Second.

The total number of rooms used for school purposes, exclusive of recitation rooms, was 18. Total number of teachers employed, 18 - 16 ladies and 2 gentlemen. The average number of weeks the schools were in session was 36. Superintendent's salary, $1,350. Enrollment for the year, 366 girls and 380 boys. Average daily attendance, 647. The Catholic school had 163 scholars.

The school census for 1882 gives the following results: Between six and twenty-one years of age, male, 693; female, 644; total, 1,337; colored, male, 7; female, 12; grand total, 1,356. Number between sixteen and twenty-one, 451. Number of seats in the schoolrooms, 854. Total enrollment during the winter, 840 - about two-thirds of the census.

The "Center" school building was erected in 1857-58, at a cost of about $25,000. The "North" school building in 1877, costing about $12, 000.

Prof. Sanford E. Shutt, Superintendent of Marion Schools, died at his residence, on Mount Vernon road, October 24, 1881, of typhoid fever. He was a fine scholar and an efficient educator. He came here from New London, Ohio, with the highest recommendations and the good wishes and friendship of all who knew him. By his decease he left a widow to mourn his loss. He was buried under Masonic auspices.

- MISCELLANEOUS SOCIETIES. Aid Societies. - Marion has always been "up and &. it," as quick as the quickest, whenever an appeal comes from those in suffering, as in yellow fever and cholera times. seasons of flood, conflagrations like the Chicago fire, periods of famine like those in the West, or even away over in Ire- land. Public-spirited men, and women, too, immediately start a contribution paper, call a meeting, appoint canvassing committees, collect and forward without delay the necessaries required by the suffering. Besides, the people of Marion now have a systematicallv organized body, called

The Marion Relief Association. - This was organized in February, 1882. Mrs. H. C. Fribley was elected President; Mrs. H. S. Lucas, Secretary, and Mrs. C. H. Norris, Treasurer. Two Vice Presidents, ladies, were elected for each ward, whose duty it should be to examine every case of want reported to them, and supply the necessities of life to those found worthy. They have the authority to do this, by having an order signed by the President and Secretary, to draw from the stores of the association whatever might be necessary. Besides the above officers, there was appointed an Executive Committee of gentlemen. The object of the association is to pro- 'vide relief to the worthy poor and prevent imposition by unworthy beggars denominated " tramps," eto.

Tho association has done a great deal of good work. It publishes a semi-annual report of its proceedings. During the half-year ending March 6, 1888, fourteen families were relieved. The winter season has the greatest number of needy persons, and the colored population furnish the greatest number of cases that need attention. Fuel is the principal article called for.

The association meets the first Tuesday of every month, and some portions of the year, when there is occasion, it meets every two weeks. The present officers are: Mrs. Harvey Peters, President; Mrs. Eliza C. Dickerson, Secretary; Mrs. Yake, Treasurer, besides the Vice Presidents and Executive Committee as before mentioned. The policy and methods of the society. continue the same as above described. :

Music Bands.- - The first instrumental band in Marion to make music on public occasions was organized in 1837, with fifteen members, comprising Philip Dietrich, still a well and favorably known resident; John Wildkahn, violinist; George Sprung, flutist, and Alexander Sprung, George M. Koons and Maj. Spaulding, clarionet players. Between that time and 1844, some of the prominent players were Ed B. Thompson, with his long clarionet, T. P. Wallace and Percy Copeland. The instructors were Augustus Machold, from Columbus, Mr. Tuttle, from Springfield, and others. Mr. Wildbahn, who had come to Marion in 1828, died March b, 1878, aged over seventy-eight years - an exemplary citizen of this place for just half a century. i

In 1844, the band was engaged to play at a Democratic meeting in Mount Gilead, and after the fatiguing labors of the day the members stopped overnight in that place, at a hotel south of what was then the public square, where they were, of course, kept out of their sleep until after midnight. One of the members of the band, Ed B. Thompson, who was the butt of jokes, was placed, with two or three others, in a room on the ground floor facing the public square. During the night some scalawag entered the room and abstracted therefrom the Major's (Thompson's) pantaloons, leaving the contents of the pockets on the stand. The Democracy had a beautiful flag-staff on the square, and before the break of day some mischievous fellows procured two small pigs, and placing one in each leg of the trowsers, attached the latter to the halliards and drew them up the pole some forty feet from the ground.

About the time this was going on, a hard-hearted wretch crept through an open window into the Major's room and threw a pailful of water over him while asleep. The Major jumped up, as mad as the circumstance compelled him to be, and hopped around, making terrible threats. His appearance was ludicrous enough - a wet shirt clinging " conformably? to an awkwardly-shaped body. After seeking in vain for some time for his buff-colored trousers, he chanced to look out upon the public square, when, behold! they were flitting in the breeze from the Democratic flag-pole, with the pigs in them, squealing most piteously. Whereupon occurred a storm, bordering on a small hurricane, made by the excited Major. The Democrats were also wroth, at seeing some one hungin effigy upon their flag-staff. The old sow was wooh-wooh-ing around in search of her young, and the owner of the swine was swearing a streak of blue blazes, to think the " Locofocos" should run his grunters up their pole.

The Marion Cornet Band was organized in 1857; Harry Gribel, leader. Mr. Tuttle, above-mentioned, was employed as instructor, and afterward E. G. Allen, who was the teacher until about 1870.

The Marion. Silver Band was organized about 1871, with Arthur L. Clark, leader, and James Porter, of Galion, as teacher. Mr. P. was a thorough and efficient instructor. In 1880, a re-organization was effected, under the name of

The Huber Silver Band, taking their name from the proprietor of the machine works. As leader, Richard Wissler succeeded Mr. Clark, and for the last two years Charles Mader has been leader. In January, 1883, the name was changed to

The Citizens Band. - At present the members are Charles Mader, E flat cornet; Busby Sweney, B flat cornet; John Hague, B flat cornet; Christ Fies, solo alto; Rollie Shutes, first alto; John St. Germaine, second alte; Edward Clark, tuba; M. H. Pinyard, baritone; Harry Conrad, first tenor; Warren Harding, second tenor; Lon Barlow, drum major; George Meily, bass drum; J. Matthews, snare drum. M. H. Pinyard is President and Lon Barlow, Secretary and Treasurer.

At the State fair in Columbus, in 1877, a serious accident happened to the Marion Band. While they were playing, a runaway team plunged into their midst, and wounded Harry Conrad and E. K. and Arthur L. Clark severely, several others more slightly and smashed up the instruments to a .eonsiderable extent. Mr. Conrad, indeed, had a narrow escape with his life, and it was wonderful how much mischief that runaway accomplished in a minute's time.

Besides the cornet bands, orchestras have been kept up, to attend theatrical and other entertainments. A philharmonic society was organized and drilled in 1874, by Prof. Rhu, and was kept up for several years, either continuously or by re-organization. Rev. Mr. Hummer (in his day) and Ed Durfee have done much to aid the cause of vocal music in Marion. Miss Hummer, an excellent pianist, is now in Columbus. Prof. Rhu is studying medicine.

The Ladies Library Association was in existence some years ago, managing the nucleus of a publie library; but since it war burned, in 1877, the cause has not been successfully revived, though there is a fund of over $100

Marion as early as 1828, which was conducted successfully for several winters, discussing questions of public interest which really seem modern in their nature. Ozias Bowen was the first Secretary. Since then there have been a great number, under various names, as the " Philosophian," organized in June, 1852, with a Board of Trustees, and S. H. Bartram, Secretary; the " Philadelphians," in 1876-77, with L. O. Miller, President, and C. M. Idleman, Secretary, and several others.

Besides, associations here have secured lectures from nearly all the eminent men of the nation; and Marion has been and is still occasionally visited by many of the best dramatic and musieal companies in the United States.

Henry Rifles. - ' This military company was organized by Prof. E. E. Henry in the spring of 1883. Its members were pupils of the Marion 'High School. The company now numbers eighteen, all neatly uniformed and properly equipped. Officers are George H. Uhler, Captain; Victor Dombaugh, First Lieutenant; V. H. Kling, Second Lieutenant; Philip Ruehrmund, First Sergeant; Robert Allen, Second Sergeant; William Beatty, Third Sergeant; Willis P. Hume, Fourth Sergeant and Color-Bearer. The company meets every Friday evening for drill.

Base Ball. - Associations for playing base ball in Marion have existed for many years, re-organizing from time to time with increasing interest, until it has now become a popular entertainment for the Marion people, both young and old. In 1874, and for several years afterward, the players were known as the " Stars," being members of the " Marion Star Base Ball Association," comprising such men as, in 1874, Mel Dice, President, W. G. Lucas, Secretary; in 1875, T. C. Bowen, President, R. Fahey, Treasurer, A. C. Bowen, Secretary, J. H. Reed, J. J. Hane, G. B. Christian, S. R. Dumble and T. C. Bowen, Directors; M. Dice, Captain.

Mohawk Base Ball Club. - This is the name of the present base ball club of Marion. It was organized in July, 1882, with W. G. Lucas, President; W. E. Scofield, Secretary; John Ryn, catcher; J. Mack, pitcher; P. Short, short stop; Walter Lannon, first base; Samuel Fulton, second base; Jacob Keller, third base; W. Dee, left field; Pat O'Donnell, center field; W. E. Scofield, right field. This club has a good ground in the southeastern portion of town, and is in good financial condition. It has engaged in contests with the " Buckeyes," of Columbus, the * Red Stockings," of Cleveland, and with clubs from Dayton, Galion, ete. During the summer of 1883, just past, it had two to five contests a week, winning in the largest. share.

The "Marion Navy." - A company of canoe men was formed in 1880, consisting at first of T. P. Wallace, Harry True and Frank Saiter, to whose number have since been added S. A. Court and Prof. E. E. Henry. These have each a nice canoe, ranging in cost from $50 to $75. Mr. Wallace is " Commodore." Mr. True's canoe is a finely finished one, and is furnished with jointed oars, so that the rower faces the bow - a great advantage. The company have also fishing tackle, tents, etc., and make annual excursions to the Scioto and Ohio Rivers or Lakes Erie, Chautauqua, etc., thus enjoying the highest order of recreation.

Izaak Walton Club. - This was organized in July, 18.3, with thirteen members, the limited number, as a corporate body, with a capital stock of $1,000. P. O. Sharpless is President and William Fies Secretary and Treasurer. The object of the association is to improve and stock two certain ponds with fish at Peters' quarry, in the eastern portion of the city - one pond with earp and one with bass.

Two Great Fires

September 22, 1865, a fire broke out in the rear of Johnson, Uhler & Co.'s store, on Main street, and did not cease its work until it had caused a damage of about $30,000, the principal losers being T. Fahey, Johnson, Uhler & Co., Lucas & Seffner, Campbell & Co., A. H. Kling & Bro., Leonard, R. H. Johnson, Judge Bartram, Capt. Hardy, etc.

The Masonic Block was burned May 3, 1877, between 10 and 11 o'clock at night. Total loss, $38,000 to $40,000. Insurance $27,000. The principal losers were the Masonic Lodge, H. True & Co., H. A. Love, Mr. Whitmarsh, Dr. Throckmorton, Mr. Burckel, R. H. Johnson, etc.

Anecdotal

A part of Marion in early day was known as "Sloan's Orchard." At one time it was quite a resort for young ladies and gentlemen, during pleasant evenings, to talk love, etc. A; "chap" conceived the idea of having some fun by playing spook, having his eye on a certain couple. Knowing the tree which was their favorite resort, he prepared himself with a false face, a skull cap as white as snow and a sheet equally white, and perched himself one night up in the tree. He looked perfectly like a spook, sure enough. He had not been there long before this loving pair entered the orchard, seated themselves under the tree and began to talk of the future. Meanwhile, Mr. Spook remained patiently quiet. By-and-by, the gentle. man undertook to take one sweet kiss, when the lady threw her head back and face upward, and espying that frightful figure overhead, sent forth an unearthly shriek. " Joseph" was astonished, for he had never known his lady to " carry on" so before on similar occasions. She ran a short distance, and pointed back to "that awful specter on that apple tree!" A

*Zounds! let's run," whispered Joe; and away the loving couple ran until they reached the house, where they rested and theorized over the matter. They concluded to feel spunky and brave enough to interview Mr. Ghost with a double-barreled shot-gun the next evening, should he appear. The next morning, the chap who had personified the ghost took special pains to throw himself into Joseph's presence, and by conversation he learned, unaware to Joseph, the programme for the next-evening.

The evening came, and the couple, with gun in hand, sallied forth to the "sacred" (scared) spot, when lo! there was the ghost, sure enough. "Bang!" went barrel No. 1 of the shot-gun. The ghost kept its position, only its ghastly habiliments trembled a little. This was one corroborative evidence that the thing was a spirit. Says Myrinda to Joseph, "Fire the other barrel; aim at his breast." Bang! went barrel No. 2, with a perfect aim, with the same effect as before. Away ran Joseph and Myrinda, frightened as much as ever. On looking behind them, they beheld the specter on the ground. making toward them! At break-neck speed the frightened pair made their way to the house, where pantingly they began to adopt new theories with reference to the awful subject. There could be no doubt now about its being a true ghost, for the marksman was near enough to * knock the stuffing out of a roasted chicken," and yet nothing moved save that terrible winding-sheet, which seemed to wave at Joe as much as to say, " Peel away, with your old blunderbuss!" Tbe more they talked, the more nervous they became, so that Joe was almost afraid to go home alone.

at, and he suspended the articles in ghost form up in the tree, while he secreted himself behind a stump not far distant, to enjoy the fun. The paraphernalia he suspended in such a manner that he could slip them down readily upon his person, which he did during the moment of the first run by the young couple, and made toward them with solemn step, as before stated.

The solution of the mystery some time afterward, reached Joe's ears, who has ever since then done a sufficient amount of scientific swearing whenever that experience has been alluded to.

Profane Money. - One day, in the early career of Marion village, a half-drunken, wicked chap happened to drop into the office of good old Squire Davis, and shocked him beyond measure by his profanity. He was told that such language was unlawful, and unless he desisted he would be fined 25 cents for each profane word. This only incensed the reckless fellow the more, when the Justice fined him a "quarter." He handed the Squire a Spanish-milled dollar to pay the fine, but change could not be made. So the heathen let loose again, with more profanity, saying to the Squire as he left, " There's your change."

That was not what might properly be considered a legal tender, yet the dignity of the law was maintained by tbe assessment of the additional 75 cents fine.

Hydrophobia. - Some time about 1838 or 1839, two colored women - one a "servant" of Judge Bowen - attended a negro dance at the house of * Old Black Henry," as he was familiarly called, and on the following day were taken with symptoms of hydrophobia, which in a few hours assumed the most aggravated form. They were then at the house of Simon Pierce, who procured physicians and rendered every assistance possible. To see them raving, biting and foaming at the mouth, teeth snapping and eyes glistening, and the features in all imaginable contortions, was enough to shock the sensibilities of even the strongest hearted. By careful treatment, they recovered. Imagine two cases of hydrophobia in a town of the size of Marion at that day, and you may readily imagine how eager every one was to see the "horrid sight." Some of the real old Virginia people called it "spells," insisting that one of the colored race had the power to "put a spell on another" whom they disliked. Others insisted that it was caused by something placed in a bowl of water from which they drank the previous night at the dance. l

The Long Fiddle. - J. R. Knapp relates the following: " About 1839, there was one of your good old-fashioned singing schools in Marion, under the superintendence of Prof. Micah Spaulding. His entry into the village on the afternoon previous to his night schools caused the most pleasant emotions to fill the bosoms of the beaux and belles. His little old mare, a trifle larger than a mule, with Micah and his big 'hoss fiddle' on its back, was & sight wonderful to behold. I do declare the aforementioned fiddle was at least ten feet longer than the mare or its rider, and when in the schoolroom it (the fiddle) was tuned, oh, Jericho, what music! He was a good man, and for a small sum of money made many a one believe he or she could sing like a nightingale. He told me, however, very feelingly, that one great drawback I experienced in learning to sing was the size of my mouth, saying I had mouth enough to go around a good sized family. This was so kindly spoken that I could not get mad; besides, I attended school more on account of my Susan Mariar, and to hear that delicious old fiddle. than with the expectation of ever becoming a Jenny Lind."

First Dancing School. - When Mr. - first came to Marion, and gave out that he was master of the Terpsichorean art, obtained a sufficient number of patrons for a school, and secured the dining-room of the old Kennedy Hotel, on the present Conrad corner, the occasion was considered a gay and high-toned one. The height of fashion and good manners must then be observed, the females dressing as follows: Commencing at the top of the head, it was adorned with a conical (or comical) cap of gauze and ribbons; the hair was tied up on top, and kept from falling back by means of a comb about six inches long and back three inches wide (seen lately atthe loan exhibition); five or six beautiful puffs iu front (the reader may laugh along here if she wants to), encireling beautiful faces, devoid of paint except what the magic brush of nature touched them with. The low-necked dresses showed the swan-like necks and wavy outlined shoulders to the best advantage. The short-waisted dress was encircled at the waist by bits of fancy colors, and the sleeves were aslarge as a fair-sized pumpkin, being filled with feathers, or any light substance, so as to produce the proportions required by style. The skirts were as ample as starch and cords could make them. Slippers, of delicate material encased delicate feet, and with narrow, fancy ribbons laced in Grecian style around the ankles, finished the costume.

The gentlemen had their hair as smooth as bear's grease could make it: face clean and collars of the purest white, whose corners reached a line horizontal with the nose, giving it no chance to meddle with the affairs of others. Below this was a dickey of fine linen, beneath which beat hearts with honest emotions of the simple pleasure to be participated in. Next came the cut-away, swallow-tailed coat, with its huge brass buttons and capacious pockets - filled with candy and kisses for the girls. The trowsers liked their owner well, for they clung so tightly as to interfere materially with some of their most graceful movements; and " pumps" (slippers) completed the gentlemen's equipment.

The dance begins. Manners to partners - and such bowing and scraping! Balance all! one, two, three, and every one was on tiptoe. No general was viewed with more respect than the dancing master, as he flourished the rattan and gave the orders. And thus passed the pleasant hours away.

* In olden time, when the good people of Marion wished to rid the town of any objectionable character, a 'court of renegades' was convened, who administered justice in a summary manner. I well remember one goodnatured, half-witted sort of hard-working customer, known as ' Long Island Sound,' who supported a wife and mother-in-law by teaming. The wife was as good-looking and attractive as the mother was vicious and ugly. They were of French extraction, and you may well imagine when they 'took a notion' to do anything, it was 'did.' They soon became a nuisance to the better portion of the community, and to transfer them to some other locality it was necessary to convene a 'court of renegades.' This was done in the court room, Gen. Rowe and Dr. Johnson acting as Judges, and sometimes Justice Williams with them. William Robbins, William Fisher and others officiated as attorneys. bape

* It was a rule, in a court of this kind, first to examine the plaintiff and defendant as to witnesses, to ascertain whether there were reasonable grounds for a suit. After impaneling a jury - the court room thronged with spectators - the wife was put on the witness stand, who proceeded to relate all her private grievances. Among them she gave, as a reason for kicking 'Long Island' out of bed and driving him out of doors in the night, that he smelt too strong of horse-flesh. What the wife, old lady and the husband did reveal to the court and jury would not be the clean thing in print. The next witness called was 'Black Henry,' Judge Bowen's hired man, who was as black as the ace of spades. He was asked to testify as to his 'color.' With a look at the Judge's bench, and rolling out the whites of his eyes like balls of candle wicking, he exclaimed, 'No, sah; you can't fool me; Judge Bowen ain't up dah,' pointing to the Judge's bench. It was found expedient to hustle this too intelligent witness out of the room.

" After examining many innocent witnesses, going to show the character of the parties at loggerheads, the case was summed up by the attorneys and the charge given to the jury, who retired for a verdict. In less than thirty minutes, the verdict was rendered that the parties should leave town within four hours, under a penalty of being hung, should they be found thereafter within the bounds of the corporation. 'The scheme worked like a charm. In less than one hour, 'Long Island' might have been seen in a sulky, making his way toward Big Island a little faster than was permitted by the ordinance of the corporation. The women gathered up their 'traps' and followed suit, and the village was once more restored to peace and quiet, being rid of those who were introducing a state of morals not in keeping with propriety and decorum.

"To say that there was a vast amount of real, genuine fun mixed up with the ridiculous, would not convey even a faint idea of what transpired in that court room that afternoon. 'The length and breadth thereof' can only be known by those who heard and saw what was said and done on that occasion. ' 3

"Av another time, the boys, to have some fuu, took possession of a scissors-grinder's machine and placed it on top of the old market house. The man of the machine was fresh from Switzerland, and therefore unaccustomed to the 'boyish pranks of American youth,' and, besides, he was unable to speak a word of English. When he missed his machine, he hunted the town over, never once thinking to look on the top of so large a building. Before he"was informed of its whereabouts, he proposed to try the virtue of law. Wherefore, a 'court of renegades' was organized, and after much swearing on the part of 'my Switzer,' and all manner of fun by those in attendance, he was taken to the door, and his coveted prize pointed out to him. In due (?) time, it was restored to him, and he left the place utterly disgusted, as almost any one in his situation would."

This renegade court had several other cases before it, out of which they and the spectators - and the court room was always packed - obtained as much sport as they could hold.

When Marion County was organized, the territory now comprising Marion Township was named Center Township, and retained that name until 1827, when, by reference to the Commissioners' records, is found the following order:

"Wednesday, December 5, 1827 - Ordered, that the name of Center Township be and is hereby altered to the name of Marion Township, and shall hereafter be known and designated as such;" which name this division of the county has retained to the present. Its territory is best described as Township 5 south, Range 15 east. It contains thirty-six full sections, and is bounded on the north by Grand Prairie Township, on the east by Claridon Township, on the south by Pleasant and Green Camp Townships, and on the west by Green Camp and Big Island Townships.

Marion Township was originally covered with fine timber, except the low grounds, or swales, which were covered with grass, and would be so covered to this day were it not for the art of drainage, which the agricultural commuuity have so assiduously cultivated of late years, with the hope that soon these low grounds will become permanently more fertile and profitable than the uplands. Asa single tract of land, this township is the highest between Columbus and Toledo, according to the railroad survey, and is drained by natural water-courses toward all points of the compass ` except eastward, and in that direction ditching has been done to so great an extent within a few years that the land is, as it were, being raised up many feet above water level.

Àn inexhaustible supply of good building stone exists in this township, and even within the corporate limits of Marion Village, for an account of which see geology in the first chapter, and a sketch of the quarries in the chapter on Marion. .

Agriculturally, this part of the county is finely developed, as the following account will show: Wheat, acres sown, 2,990; bushels produced, 41,601; number of acres sown for harvest of 1883, 2,333. Rye, acres sown, 4; bushels produced, 100. Oats, acres sown, 478; acres sown for crop of 1883, 339; bushels produced, 12,329. Corn, acres planted, 3,747; acres planted for crop of 1883, 3,769; bushels produced, 143,610. Meadow, acres, 1880; tons of hay, 2,216. Clover, acres, 614; tons of hay, 729; bushels of seed, 352. Potatoes, acres planted, 854; bushels produced, 7,687. Butter, 32,550 pounds. Bees, 41 hives; pounds of honey, 350. Eggs, 29,950 dozen. Apples, acres occupied, 145; bushels produced, 3,605. Peaches, bushels produced, 214. Pears, bushels produced, 68. Lands, number of acres cultivated, 6,349; number of acres pasture, 4,275; number of acres woodland, 1,458; total number of acres owned, 12,120. Wool, 24,452 pounds. Milch cows, 306. Dogs, 93. Sheep killed by dogs, 43; value, $144; injured by dogs, 45; value, $181. Losses by floods: Grain, etc., value, $150; fences, etc., value, $220.

Fiscal

expense of $1,344.50. The total value of school property at present is $9,805. Enrollment of pupils within the past year, 426, of whom 210 were boys and 216 girls. Average monthly enrollment, 325; 156 boys and 169 girls. Average daily attendance, 274; 182 boys and 142 girls. Percent of last on enrollment, 81. Pupils enrolled between sixteen and tweniy-one years of age, 07; 42 boys and 99 girls. Of the foregoing, 15 pupils were in the alphabet classes,410 in reading and spelling,376 in writing, 384 in arithmetic, 297 in geography, 167 in English grammar, and 99 in United States history.

During the past year, twenty-two teachers were employed - elevon gentlemen for the winter season and eleven ladies for the spring term; average wages for the former, $40 a month; for the latter, $25. Average number of weeks the schools were in session, thirty-six.

Cemetery

The old Marion Cemetery, just north of the present New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio depot, is still under the control of the Trustees of Marion Township, and is still reserved as a burying-ground, though but little used. if at all. Some of the remains have been removed to the new cemetery. This old cemetery is now a neglected place.