Marion County, Ohio - Chapter 2: Big Island Township, 1883

Organic

IG ISLAND TOWNSHIP was doubtless organized in the early part of the first session that was held by the Commissioners after the organization of Marion County, which convened June 7, 1824; but a diligent search of the records has failed to reveal any formal entry of such organization. But that its organization was effected then there can be no question, for on the third day of that session the following entry in whien Big Island Township is recognized as an established township, appears: THURSDAY, June 10, 1824. Commissioners met pursuant to adjournment. Present, same as yesterday. Ordered, that there be made four districts in Marion County, for the purpose of collecting the county tax, agreeable to the following boundaries: First District, composed of Scott, Washington, Claridon and Canaan Townships. Second District, composed of Green Camp, Pleasant, Richland and Morven Townships. Third District, Big Island, Salt Rock,. Center and Grand Prairie Townships. Fourth District, composed of Bucyrus, Sandusky, Grand and Whetstone Townships.

There is no entry on record defining clearly the original limits of this township, but it at present comprises the whole of surveyed Township 5, Range 14, which consists of thirty-three full sections and three fractional sections of Congress lands. At one time the south tier of sections were set. off to Green Camp Township, as will be observed from the following portion of an entry from the Commissioners' record:

Ordered, That the south tier of sections now belonging to Big Island Township. * * be, and the same is hereby set off to Green Camp Township. * * *

It also appears that this township for a time had secured and held within its limits a portion of Marion Township - then called Center, as will be observed from the following: -

Ordered, That from and after the 1st day of July next, that part of Big Island Township belonging to Center Township shall be considered to be set back to said Center Township.

When the boundaries of Green Camp Township were finally fixed and determined as they now stand, the south tier of sections taken from Big Island in 1825, was restored as appears from the following portion of an entry of that date: i

Commissioners met pursuant to the statute in such case made and provided. Present, Charles Merriman, John Shunk and George Beckley. Whereupon, on petition of John Britt and others, it is ordered that the half-mile strip taken off the west end of Township 6, Range 15, in this county, and attached to the township of Green Camp in said county, also the whole of Township 6, Range 14, in this county be, and the same is hereby detached from said township of Green Camp, and attached to the township of Pleasant, in this county. And it is further ordered that the strip of one mile heretofore taken off of the south end of Township 5, Range 14, in this county, and attached to the township of Green Camp aforesaid, be and the same is hereby detached

The lands of this township for the most part are greatly diversified by hill and dale, the soil is rich, and no more productive farm land smiles under the rays of the sunshine and answers to the refreshing draughts of spring and summer showers with more luxuriant grasses and golden grain than can be found here. An abundant supply of spring water is accessible in all parts of the township, and a number of small streams and creeks afford a good system of drainage. The Scioto River passes along the greater portion of its southern border, and the Little Scioto runs through the southeastern corner of ihe township for a distance of more than two miles. The low lands have generally been properly drained, and now but few waste places can be found in its entire territory.

First Settlers

But few of the townships of this county contained any settlers prior to 1819. "Those portions of Waldo and Prospect Townships lying south of the Greenville treaty line had received a few settlers at an earlier date, and in some instances tbe townships adjoining them had received a few " squatters," while the central and northern townships remained uninhabited by the whites until. a later date when the lands north of the treaty line had been thrown upon the market by the General Government. Yet, even then, there were a few of the early settlers of these townships, who, at first, neither bought nor entered lands, but located on them without even the shadow of a title, thus securing for themselves the name of "squatters." Big Island Township was not wholly free from this class of settlers, but in fact was at first particularly favored with them. Among the "squatter sovereigns" of this township were Jacob Croy and Joshua Cope, Sr., who came in the latter part of the winter of 181i9,-built cabins, and in the spring moved into them without chimney, floor; door or window, Mr..Cope moving in April 5, and Mr. Croy two weeks afterward. Mr. Cope's was a mile and a quarter north of Big Island, on the old Radnor road, on the farm now owned by Orange Messenger. Mr. Cope was elected the first

About the same time came the Widow Neville and her two bachelor sons, John and William, the last three of whom located on Neville Run and lived together for several years, employing much of their time in hunting and paying but little attention to agricultural pursuits. They were not skillful disappear, they were compelled to seek a more favorable location for their accustomed pursuit. Accordingly in the summer of 1835, they left Marion County, going northwest through the Black Swamp, cutting their road as

Soon after the lands north of the Greenville treaty line came into the market in 1819, there were a number of families who located in this township, and among them were those of Jacob Dickerson, William Britton, Alexander Britton, Samuel Jones, Dr. Alson Norton and Hezekiah Gorton. During the next two years there came several others, of whom the following are a portion: Leonard Metz, Newton Messinger, Col. Everett Messenger, Portius Wheeler, David Thompson, Elder David Dudley and Caleb Johnson. Quite a settlement was thus early formed near where the town of Big at the time, yet itwas thought by the inhabitants of that vicinity that there was the most suitable site for the government seat of the county soon to be organized, and they strove to make it such; but they were too far from the geographical center. The Commissioners appointed for the purpose of selecting a suitable site for the county seat in the year 1822, after viewing several localities, among which were Claridon, Big Island and Marion, selected the last-named place, which, in the judgment of a great number of the settlers of the county at least, was then the most unsuitable and unpromising situation of all in contemplation. The people of Claridon and Big Island were sorely vexed and disappointed; and although the town of Big Island was not platted until in 1826, the settlers there and in the surrounding community contended for the county seat, even for many years after it was established at Marion, and the hope of success was not wholly abandoned until at the time the court house was erected in Marion in 1832. Then they quietly yielded to the inevitable, and the place remains a mere hamlet to this day.

Col. Samuel Everett, one of the earliest citizens of this township, was born in Brattleboro, Vt., in 1786, where he learned the saddler's trade as he grew up. , He enlisted in the war of 1812 under command of Gen. Hull, and was one of Hull's men at the infamous surrender of Detroit. He came to this county in 1825, entered a farm in the northeast corner of Big Island Township, on Section 1, where he lived until his death, February 2, 1842. Hv raised a family of four daughters and two sons. On the southeast quarter of Section 1 is situated

The Noted Indian Fort

This fort is on the highest point of land in the township. It really consists of two forts, the principal one being surrounded by a deep ditch. The smaller one contains about three-fourths of an aere, and is connected with the larger one by a narrow passage. They are said by good engineers to be well laid out. Part of the fort is still in good preservation - the ditch, embankment, ete. - showing unmistakably the design of the construetors, notwithstanding there are many large oaks, three and four feet in diameter, standing in the bottom of the ditch.

Big Island Village In Early Days

The prineipal hotel in Big Island in 1837 was the brick building then kept by Mr. Morgan, afterward by D. Thurlow, John R. Knapp, Sr., Peter Frederick, Hiram Halsted, ete. Willey Fowler also kept a hotel, and after his death he was succeeded by Daniel Thurlow, and he by his widow. Later, William Wiley erected a fine frame building on the site of the editice known as the " Old Mansion."

The first dry goods store of any importance was opened by Mesers. Norton, Royce & Topliff. John Hudson at a very early period kept a grocery in the frame building opposite the brick tavern; it was long ago torn away. Later, Ira Halsted ran a grocery store in one corner of the brick building. and Jacob Young a dry goods store in the Norton building.

makers. Maj. Pangborn, a patriot of the Revolution, was the oldest citizen and was highly respected. Royal Miller and Alfred Walker were shoemakers. Old Mr. Awkinbaugh also made shoes - -at least, says Mr. Knapp, "he made Jakee wear shoes in hay-making time to prevent 'his biting himself mit a snake'" Jonathan and George O. Ross were coopers. The chief carpenters were Milton Pixley and Samson and Paul Jones. The physicians, Drs. Alson, and John C. Norton and Russell C. Bowdish. Tailors, Joshua S. Batch and James Green.

Some of the most prominent and widely known citizens of Marion County weré natives of Big Island Township. Among the number may be mentioned Col. Everett Messenger and Judge Isaac E. James, both of whom were members of the State Legislature; John R. Knapp, for many years a leading editor of the county, now of Washington, D. C., and H. T. Van Fleet, a prominent member of the Marion County bar.

In militia muster days, the village of Big Island was a favorite point of rendezvous on Saturday afternoon, when drinking and fighting constituted the chief attractions. On one Christmas Day in Big Island might be seen at one moment thirteen fights going on! Imagine twenty-six men, all "paired " and stripped, and fighting at one time! It was what was called a free fight, and *outsiders" therefore did not attempt to check its progress or interfere in any way. To have "commanded the peace" that day would have been considered a breach of decorum unpardonable, and, indeed, not a safo undertaking.

Free- Will Baptist Church of Big Island. - ' This church was organized, according to the old church records, by the Rev. David Dudley at his house, July 6, 1822. The first members were Rev. David Dudley, Betsey Dudley, Robert and Nancy Hopkins, John Page, Margarette Page, P: Wheeler and wife, Mrs. E. James, Benjamin F» Wheeler, Asa Davis, John Bates and wife, John C. Bates, Mehala Thomson, Southwick and wife and D. Thompson and wife. The society grew in numbers and subsequently erected a small church building on the northeast quarter of Section 12, which they used for several years, but which has since been destroyed. They afterward helped build the old Union Church, R. Hopkins donating the site, one and one half miles east of Scott Town, on the northeast quarter of Section 5, in 1842, and it has ever since been their regular place of meeting. It has been used by the Methodists and Presbyterians also. In 1868, they helped build the Pleasant Hill Union Church, on the northeast quarter of Section 10, and in 1873 they built at Big Island Village their present church, four miles from the Union Church edifice, which was dedicated July 6, 1873. The church holds regular services at both places.

The Rev. David Dudley acted as the pastor of this church for about eighteen years after its organization. He was followed by Revs. E. Hutchings, - - - - Bradford, David Marks, Aaron Hatch, John B. Wallace, G. W. Baker, Isaac Dotson, Oscar E. Baker, Gideon Moon, Kendall Higgins, John Collier, S. D. Bates, R. J. Poston, W. Whitacre, J. F. Tufts and Rev. J. A. Sutton, the present pastor. This church has" been a "tower of strength unto the Lord" for upward of sixty years and numbered among its members many of the most worthy pioneer settlers of Big Island Township.

Big Island Township is now traversed by two railroads, running the entire length o it east and west. On the Indianapolis Division of the Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis Railroad - the oldest railroad in the county, being built about thirty years ago - are Bryan and Gurley sta. tions, and on the Chicago & Atlantic Railroad, just completed, are Hord s and Espyville. The Columbus & Toledo Railroad nearly touches the northeast corner of the township.

Agricultural Status In 1883 Biographical

The following personal notices form an important feature of the history of Big Island Township. They contain the chief facts connected with the lives of those who, by their industry and energy, cleared up and improved it to its present prosperous condition:

DR. RUSSELL C. BOWDISH was born in Delaware County, Ohio, November 19, 1826. He is the son of Elijah and Sarah Bowdish, who were natives of the States of Rhode Island and Connecticut. Eljiah Bowdish eame from Rhode Island to Columbus, Ohio, in the year 1815; remained there about three years, when he removed to Radnor, Delaware Co., Ohio, where he was married to Sarah Russell in 1821. "They came to Marion County in 1830, where they resided during the remainder of their lives. Dr. R. C. Bowdish is a sociable, intelligent, well educated, respected gentleman, living on a beautiful farm of 227 acres, which he owns, situated near the village of Big Island. He was a medical student of Dr. J. C. Norton and Dr. T. B. Fisher. of Marion, Ohio, and of Cleveland Medi. cal College. He has practiced medicine for more than thirty years, over tweniy-five of which have been at his present location. He is a skillful and successful physician. He was married to Irene Hardin, at Delaware, Ohio, December 28, 1848, and they had two children, a son and a daughter, who both died in childhood. Mrs. Bowdish died in 1876.

ALBERT J. BRADY is the son of S. L. and Mary J. Brady, natives of Big Island Township, who live at present in Morrow County, Ohio, having brought up a number of children. Albert was born February 1, 1853, and at tbe age of sixteen he started out for himself and worked by the month for five years - four years with his uncle, William Brady. July 3,

1879, he married Ida M. Corey, daughter of Mary B. Corey, of this town ship. Mrs. B. was born June 22, 1861. Their two children are Ebenezer, who was born April 9, 1880, and Lura Irene, born January 12, 1882. Since 1881, Mr. Brady has attended the Lemuel Fite farm, of 500 acres, being paid by the year. This season (1883) he has eighty acres of corn and thirty acres of wheat.

B. D. BRADY was born January 29, 1858, in Big Island Township, the son of John C. and Elizabeth Brady. His father died in early man. hood, so that he obtained but little education. He was married in the spring of 1877 to. Miss Sarah Frederick, daughter of Jacob Frederick, of Marion. Their one child is Merrill Leroy. He purchased forty acres, where he resides, in 1870, for $2,000, but sold since twenty acres for $1,100; he is cultivating the remainder.

JOHN BRICKER was born in Germany December 18, 1845, the son of John and Barbara (Bricker) Bricker, who emigrated to America in 1853, etc pping in Delaware County, Ohio, eight years, then settling in Green Camp Township, where they still reside. Securing a practical education, John Bricker remained with his parents till marriage, which occurred March 17, 1870. His wife is the daughter of George and Fanny (King) Court (see sketch of George Court), and they are the parents of three children - Mary O., Albert F. and Rosa. Immediately after marriage, he purchased, where he now resides, eighty acres, having then fewimprovements. He has erected an attractive home, surrounded by substantial outbuildings; is a thorough farmer, raises considerable stock, is a good citizen and votes the Democratic ticket.

JAMES BRITTON was born February 16, 1834, a native of Big Island v Township, the son of William and Sarah Britton, who came from the State of New York, entering eighty acres.. Having raised a family of nine children, Mr. William Britton died in 1871, aged eighty-two years. James' grandfather, William Britton, came from England; was engaged in both the Revolutionary war and that of 1812. January 16, 1857, the subject of this sketch was married to Miss Lydia McNabb, daughter of Augus and Lydia MeNabb, of Massachusetts, and of Scotch extraction. Hight children blessed this union, three dying young. 'Fhe names of the living are Asa M., Sarah R., James, Jr., Lydia R. and May M. Mr. B. inherited the old homestead, consisting of 102 acres, which he values to-day at $70 per acre. His farin is stocked with the best varieties. He has owned a twothirds interest in an Aultman & Taylorthresher for twenty-seven years, but he refuses to follow it longer. Both himself and wife hold a membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church.

MRS. MARY S. BRITTON is the widow of Gitto Britton, whose parents came from New York in an early day. She was born Februray 26, 1823, the daughter of James Cram, who came to Big Island Township in 1836; his grandfather, Sanborn Cram, was a soldier in the Revolutionary -war. Mr. and Mrs. Britton were married in the autumn of 1841, and their three children are William H., Sarah, wife of Harrison Deal, and Louis M., an enterprising farmer, living near his parents. After their marriage, they rented about five years, purchasing their present residence, then of sixty acres in 1850, which subsequently was increased to 132 acres. Mr. B. died in 1868, aged forty-three years, having done a large amount of hard labor, though never a strong man, and was kind to the poor. Mrs. B. is still hale and hearty, and enjoys the confidence of the

C. COONS is one of Big Island's strong temperance men, born in the State of New York, April 1, 1836, the son of Henry and Mary Coons, who arrived from New York in 1840, settling in Big Island and rearing a family of four children. Mr. Coons remained with his parents only until he was fourteen, when he went out and worked by the day and month until he was twenty-one years of age. His marriage to Miss Lucina Edmonds occurred in January, 1857. She was the daughter of Thomas and Mary Edmonds, of Indiana. She lived only three years after marriage, leaving one son - Leroy R. Mr. Coons married again in the autumn of 1866, Catherine Uncapher, daughter of Isaac and Susan Uncapher, of Marion. To this union were added two children - Sarah J. and Alondoah. Mr. Coons

"rented the first three years of married life; then worked at saw milling two years; rented again for eleven years, and finally bought his present residence in 1877, 120 acres, paying $50 per acre - valued to-day at $65 per acre. He has made many improvements; a good house in 1878; a substantial barn in 1879. His fences are fine, and he has already put out 400 to 500 rods of tile. He raises considerable grain annually. Both Mr. and. Mrs. Coons are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, he acting as Class-Leader and Trustee.

JOSEPH B. COUTU was born in St. Phelix, Canada East, April 7, 1846, the son of Pierre Coutu, whose people originally hailed from Frenee He remained with his parents until his seventeenth year, when, working out for two months at $7 per month, he obtaiued sufficient funds to carry him to Toronto. He soon met parties with whom he engaged to work upon the old broad.gauge railroad, and he continued with that cornpany until 1865, when he came to Marion for one year; thence to Big Island. July 21, 1867, he married Susan M. Payne, daughter of Abraham and Philo A. Payne, of this place. Their children are four - Princess A., Philolelia, Stella and Hayes. At present he is renting the * Gurley farm," of 160 acres, and he has continued in this business for the past thirteen years. The education he acquired in the schools of Canada was very limited, but he enjoys the full confidence of his neighbors, not having been out of office since coming into the township; serving as Constable nine consecutive years, and as Township Clerk for three years - which office he now holds.

A. O. CRANMER, who was born April 19, 1831, in Portage County, Ohio, was the son of Israel M. (of New York) and Lusina Cranmer (of Vermont), who came to Marion County in 1840, rearing a family of six children. He married, September 4, 1851, Miss Ann J. Smith, daughter of John D. Smith, of Marion County. They have had five children, four dying young. The only survivor is Eliza J., wife of Thomas Miller. They bought their present residence in 1860, then fifty acres, now 112 acres, valued at $75 per acre; fences good; tiling 525 rods. His fine house, costing $9,000, was built in 1881. At a cost of $800, he built a good barn in 1873. He enlisted in Company B, Sixty-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, first as private, but promoted as Corporal and finally as Sergeant. He served in nearly all the leading battles - Murfreesboro, Chickamauga, Mission Ridge, Knoxville, Blaine's Cross Roads, Buzzard's Roost, Dalton, . Resaca, Dallas, Kenesaw, Atianta, Peach Tree Creek, and was captured at Franklin, Tenn., November 30, 1864. He was a prisoner four months and two days in Andersonville Prison, when he was exchanged. He was aboard the "Sultana" when she blew up, and nearly burned todeath. In oue battle he was wounded in the feet twice. October 6, 1872, his left arm was nearly dissevered by a drag saw, and it is but of little service to him now; nevertheless, he is very industrious, and has cleared in his time eighty-five acres of timber land. Mr. Cranmer commands the respect of his neighbors, and himself and wife are members of the Christian Church.

ALLEN DAY, living in the northwest part of the township, is a native of Big Island, born April 7, 1836, the son of Ovington and Jane Day. His father was a soldier of 1812, while his grandfather, Samuel Day, and his great-grandfather were both engaged in the Revolutionary war. His people are of Scotch extraction. In 1878, his father died, aged eighty-four years, having cleared seventy-five acres of land. All the education that Allen obtained he acquired before his thirteenth year. From his fifteenth to his seventeenth year he was learning the jewelry trade, at Upper Sandusky, Ohio, uf S. H. Chapman. He never followed'this business, how-

.ever. Mr. Day purchased and inherited the old place of 141 acres, which he has increased to 161 acres, the west twenty acres being in Montgomery Township. He values his farm at $75 per acre. It is already drained with 1,000 rods of tile, and he intends adding about two hundred rods annually. He has the finest graded stock. His inviting house he built in 1877, ata cost of $2,000. He first married, January 28, 1858, Miss S. J. Mears, daughter of Samuel and Sarah Mears, of Wyandot County, Ohio. Seven children were added to this union, three surviving - Florence, Ferris and Gertrude. This wife died in 1872, aged thirty-six years, and Mr. Day married agaiu, October 8, 1874, Mrs. N. J. Lee, daughter of William and Lydia Burns, formerly of Iowa.

BENJAMIN P. DUTTON is,a native of the State of Delaware, Sussex County, born August 26, 1829, the son of Jesse and Mary Dutton, who came to Big Island Township in 1835, settling on the old Townsend farm, rearing a family of three children. The father died in 1845, aged fiftyseven years. Benjamin P. Dutton remembers distinctly of hearing wolves, wild eats, and seeing deer near their door, his father killing many of the last. Having obtained a limited education, he commenced to work for himself in his seventeenth year, laboring by month or by day ten years. December 13, 1855, he married Miss Maria E. Riley, daughter of J. J. and Betsey M. Riley; the latter died August 11, 1888. Seven children com. plemented his marriage, six now living - Martha, wife of Edward Wood; Eliza A., wife of W. W. Miller; Mary M., wife of J. C. Williams; George F., Charles A. and Eva. After renting three years, Mr. D. bought his present farm of eighty acres,paying $1,000; but the Chicago & Atlantie Railroad has taken some of this ground. He has but 73% acres at present, val. ued at $75 per acre; is now tiling his farm. He owns two fine horses - "English Glory" and "Heenan." Since 1870, he has had an interest in a thresher; one-sixth interest at first, one-third at present. Mr. Dutton is & hard worker, having cleared in his day 125 acres of forestland. He has been Trustee of the township; also its Clerk. He is a worthy citizen.

J. B. FISHER is an enterprising farmer, located north of the Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis Railroad, above Longville, in a neat house surrouuded by comfortable buildings. He is the son of Dr. T. B. and E. P. Fisher, of Marion, where he was born October 20, 1843. He received a good education, but at seventeen years of age he enlisted in his country's defense. in Company K, Fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry He served in many important engagements - Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Mine Run, Wilderness and Petersburg. He was honorably discharged in the spring of 1865. Remaining with his people only one year, he went "out West," becoming a farmer, stock buyer and general trader until 1878, when he returned to Ohio and to his present home. He married, November 26, 1878, Miss Jennie A. Phelps, daughter of T. D. Phelps, of Franklin County, Ohio. Their children are four - Eleanor, Jessie, John S. and Clarissa. Heis a faithful member of the Masonic lodge at Marion, No. 70.

HIRAM K. FOOS, an enterprising young man, living in the northern part of Big Island Township, is a native of Scott Township. his birth taking place February 3, 1857. He is of German descent. 'His parents are James H. and Rhoda Foos. Mr. Foos, in his twenty-third year, November 25, 1879, was married to Miss Nerva E. Clark, an intelligent lady, daughter of R. T. and Harriet Clark, of Marion Township. Their only child, Harry, died when an infant. In 1882, he bought his home, consisting of . forty acres, paying $50 per acre; he values it at $60 per acre. He keeps good stock. Both Mr. and Mrs. Foos have been consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church for the past three years.

H. C. FRAME is a young, enterprising farmer, born November 3, 1850, a native of Big Island Township and the son of Smith and Lovey Frame. The former was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, in 1803; his death occurred in 1876, aged seventy-two. The latter was born in Ross County, Ohio, in 1811; her death occurred in 1882, aged seventy-one. His parents moved to Marion County in 1835, bought 160 acres and in time accumulated considerable property. They reared a family of five children. Mr. H. C. Frame owns 191 acres of the old homestead, in Section 6, valued at $75 per acre. He makes a business of raising and fattening stock for market. He is tiling the farm to some extent annually, having buried already about two hundred rods. His farm is one of the most desirable in the county. Mr. Frame is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and-a charter member of Marion Commandery, No. 36, K. T.

CHRISTOPHER GRACELY is a native of Richland Township, born August 15, 1846, the son of Jacob F. and Sophia Gracely, who came from Germany in 1832, locating in the above township. Cholera raged upon the vessel upon which they came, and forty-eight of their fellow-passengers died. They were six weeks moving, with an ox-team, from Cleveland to their place of settlement. They removed to Big Island Township in 1873. The mother died in 1857. Their children numbered nine; one son is Rev. David Gracely, of the German Methodist; Episcopal Church. The old gentleman, born iz 1806, is still vigorous. Christopher, having received a fair education, married, April 18, 1871, Miss Angeline Bauer, daughter of Croft Bauer, of Pleasant Township. The name of their only child is Emanuel W. Mr. Gracely purchased his home of eighty acres in 1871, paying $5,000, adding since forty acres, all worth $65 per acre Asa farmer, he has a fine beginning. His 31,000 barn is just completed. His farm is stocked with the best grades. "This is the fourth year of his Town Trusteeship. Himself and family are members of the German Methodist Episcopal Church, which he has served in all official relations. He is a highly respected citizen.

J. F. GRAY is one of Big Island's highly respected and thrifty farmers; is the son of Judge George and Mary Gray, and was born October 23, 1894. They came from the State of Delaware in 1817, locating in Salt Rock Township, where they remained till 1850, when they moved to Big Island Township. He served two terms as Probate Judge. Of his seven children, five were boys. J. F.'s grandfather, Frazer Gray, was on military duty at the hanging of Maj. André, the British spy, and he often conversed with Gen. Washington. Mr. G. was married, June 1, 1865, to Miss Amelia E. Riley, daughter of Patterson and Sarah A. Riley, of Marion Township. Their union has been supplemented with six children, two dying infants; the surviving are David, Robert, Cora and Eddie. Mr. Gray rented several years, but purchased his present farm in 1872, consisting of 160 acres, paying $45 per acre, worth to-day $80 per acre. He takes great pride in his farm, having a good barn, fences, etc., and $340 worth of tiling done. Every rod of his land is arable. This summer (1883) he is building one of the finest houses in the township, at a cost of $3,000. His varieties of stock are of the best. Both himself and wife belong the New Jerusalem (Swedenborgian) Church at Urbana, Ohio. Mr. Gray is Town Treasurer, and has been for five years; the Trusteeship he has also held. He is a member of the Masonic Blue Lodge at Marion, No. 70, also an official member of the Chapter. He is a respected and thrifty farmer.

J. H. GUTHRIE is a stirring, vigorous young man, of only eighteen summers; was born June 30, 1865, the son of John D. and Susan Guthrie, of Bowling Green Township. He has been prosecuting his studies at the Ada and Danville Normal Schools, but this spring (1883) he has been conducting the "Longacre farm," owned by his father, and consisting of 126 acres. On this farm are twenty-five acres of wheat, seventyfive acres of corn and good live stock, In all probability Mr. Guthrie will make this his permanent residence. The farm issupplied with good stock.

AARON HARRAMAN was born in Green Camp Township in 1834, the son of Davis and Betsey Harraman, she dying when he was aged six weeks. His father was a soldier of the war of 1812. He remained at home until his eighteenth year; then worked by the month until marriage, for his brother, David Harraman, for seven years. In the autumn of 1864, he married Miss Julia Carr, daughter of David and Polly Carr. Their two living children are Orris W. and Clarence G. In 1871, he purchased twenty acres near Big Islard, where he lived until the spring of 1888, when he bought, where he now resides, eighty-one acres, paying $3, 200 - sixty acres in timber. His property is worth $50 per acre. Mr. H has ever been a hard worker, clearing in his time some fifty acres of forest land.

JAMES HARRAMAN was born November 21, 1825, in Big Island Township, son of David and Elizabeth Harraman - the latter from Pennsylvania. They located in Big Island about 1818. His father, David, served in the war of 1812, and was surrendered by Hull, at Detroit, August 16, 1812. His grandfather, David Harraman, of English-Scotch descent, served during the entire war of the Revolution, and was granted a pension; he died in Darke County, Ohio, aged one hundred years. Mr. H. continued with his parents until he was aged twenty-one years; then worked by the day and month three years, receiving from 3 to 4 shillings per day. He has always been a hard worker. In the uutumn of 1846, he married Abigail Van Fleet, daughter of John K. Van Fleet. Eleven children have been born to them, five dying infants. The living are Charles, Morton, Curtis, Louisa, James B. and Edward. About 1850, he bought forty acres, where he now lives, which has multiplied to 282 acres. His property is worth, at present, $25,000. He is building. this season (1883) a large, handsome house, costing $2,000, located upon the site of an ancient Indian graveyard. A half amile of hedge runs in front of his house. His farm is excellent for fruits and grain of all varieties, having sowe three acres of

JACOB HECKER was born in Baden, Germany, April 29, 1829, the son of Jacob and Mary Hecker. Upon the death of the latter, the father brought the family of three sons to America in 1847, locating at Galion, Ohio. They remained there six years, when they moved a little south to Marion, living there thirteen years. They came to Big Island Township in 1866, where the father died in 1871, aged seventy-three years. Mr. Jacob Hecker acquired a knowledge of the tinner's trade in the fatherland. He was married, in February of 1853, to Susan Schweinfurth, also of Germany. Four children blessed this union, one dying young---Louis (deceased), Jacob, Jr., Catherine and John. His wife died in 1865, aged . thirty-six years. In the spring of 1866, Mr. H. married again, Mary Krouse, daughter of Ferdinand and Sophia Krouse. Eight children have been born to them, six surviving - R. Ferdinand, Susan, Magdalene, George, Richard, Sophia and Wesley Gustavus. He purchased his present farm, then of 240 acres. in 1866, adding sinca forty acres, valuing it all at $65 per acre. He also owns a beautiful and valuable residence in Marion, into which he intends moving; in the immediate future. His home buildings are good, substantial and convenient. Himself and family belong to the German Methodist Episcopal Church, he connected officially. He isa worthy and exemplary citizen.

JOHN HEINER was born August 17,1837, in Richland Township, son of John G. and Neclanna Heiner, who came from Wittenberg, Germany, in 1835, locating in Claridon Township, where they had twelve children, only two surviving. John G. served three years in the late war, in Company K, Fourth. Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry; under Capt. and Col. Brown, of Marion. John left home at the age of nineteen, and jobbed about until he learned the carpenter's trade, which he still plies at odd hours. April 1, 1856, he married Miss Mary Frummer, daughter of Caleb (from Germany) and Anna Frummer (from an island near Germany). Their six children are Amelia, wife of Frank Jones; Catherine, deceased; Josephine M., John F., Flora L. and Clara. Mr. H. rented for four years; then bought eighty-four acres in Auglaize County, remaining for five vears; from there he went to Iowa, purchasing 120 acres, continuing there four years; he then returned to Marion Township, buying eighty acres, stopping four years, but bought present farm in 1874, consisting of 300 acres, paying $11,000, now worth $80 per acre. His fine house he built in 1879, at a cost of $2,500; also good barn in 1881, costing $700. He is tiling some 150 rods annually. In stock, Mr. H. keeps the best grades of all varieties. He is a prosperous farmer, an esteemed citizen, and himself and wife are consistent members of the Marion Lutheran Church.

FREDERICK G. HETTLER, the son of Jacob and Catherine Hettler, was born jn Germany November 20, J827. He sailed for this country in 1854, coming six years before his parents did. He settled in Pennsylvania about two years, then lived in Marion for seven years, and then moved to Big Island Township, purchasing 100 acres of wild land in 1872. He, with the assistance of his sons, have cleared and improved the most of this farm, and erected suitable buildings. He married, in 1854, Catharine Pfeil, and three children crowned this union - Frederick, Mary and Jacob. Their mother died in 1864, aged thirty-five years. The following year he again married, Margaretta Haberraan, and four children were born to them. This wife died in 1878, also aged thirty-five. His third union occurred in 1879, with Lena Wissinger, daughter of Gottleib and Margaret (Ritman) Wissinger, natives of Germany, and the parents of nine children, four liv- ing - Margaretta L., Louisa Lena, Jacob G. and William. Frederick and three others are deceased. Mr. Hettler is an industrious and worthy citizen. He is a Democrat, politically, and himself and wife are members of the Lutheran Church.

ENOCH HOCH is a native of Franklin County, Penn., born September 27, 1827, the son of Gideon and Magdeline Hoch, who trace their lineage into Germany. Enoch came to Fremont, Ohio, in 1854, engaging in the mercantile business for three years. He then established himself at Cardington, Ohio, until 1860, manufacturing carriages. Coming then to Marion, in 1867, he continued the same business. He purchased his farm, then of 380 acres, in 1863, which has increased to 500 acres. He also owns 180 acres located near the Seioto River. He employs five laborers regularly. His beautiful farm is laid out in square forty-acre fields, upon which he raises extensive quantities of grass, having this season (1883) 150 aeres of meadow. He also cultivates fruit of all varieties, twelve acres being devoted to orchard. His attractive and commodious home, admitting a beautiful fawn in front, was built in 1853. He married Miss Mary C. Garvin, daughter of Henry Garvin, of Tiffin, Ohio. This union was crowned with four children, two dying young. The two living children are Mary C. and Frederick S. Mr. and Mrs. Hoch have been members of the Reformed Church since childhood. Mr. Hoch is an estimable and worthy citizen of Marion County. His portrait appears on another page.

ARCHIBALD HOPKINS, an old and respected citizen, is a native of Big Island Township, the son of Robert and Nancy Hopkins, who hailed from the State of Delaware. Archibald's grandfather, John Hopkins, arrived in Ohio in 1797, bringing Robert, aged three years, and five older children, settling in Pike County, Ohio, but he died in Pickaway County. Archibald's father, Robert, came to Big Island in December, 1822,.locating on the "Heiner farm." He taught the' first school in that district, continuing two or three terms. He was a prominent member 'of the Free- Will Baptist Church, at Big Island Village;''its Deacon for forty-three years, its Clerk, and also Secretary of its quarterly and yearly meetings. He reared a family of seven children, one of whom - Robert- - -was Judge of the Probate Court of this county, and his youngest daughter married Dr. J. Copeland, of La Rue. He owned at one time 400 acres of land, and was worth some $20,000. He represented Marion and its districts in both branches of the State Legislature. He was also an old soldier of the war of 1812, his wife receiving, on that account, a pension from 1872 to 1881. Robert's father, John Hopkins, participated in the Revolutionary war. Robert died in 1864, aged seventy years, while his wife survived until 1881, when she died aged eighty-five years. In their veins mingled the Scotch, Trish and English blood. Mr. Hopkins recalls seeing about his father's door deer, wolves and Indians, and knew personally Armstrong and Matthew Walker. He injured his health, when only sixteen, and has been paralyzed more or less ever since. His first marriage took place April 14, 1853, to Miss Cordelia Higgins. She died at the birth of her only child, which did not survive. February 28, 1861, he married Miss Alvira Brocket, daughter of Alonson Brocket, of Trumbull County, Ohio. She, too, died three years later. His last marriage was solemnized with Miss Mary P. Langdon (a Quaker), daughter of William and Lucinda Langdon. In 1856, Mr. H. bought, in Boone County, Iowa, 160 acres, paying $500. He has added since eighty-one acres more, and he values it all now at $30 per acre. He purchased his present home, cousisting to-day of only six and a half acres, in 1862, where he and his wife live very contentedly. They are both members of the Free-Will Baptist Church, of which he has been Deacon several years.

MRS. SARAH A. HUDSON was born November 23, 1828, in Harrison County, Ohio, the daughter of Rev. William and Margery Kenyon, who came from the Isle of Mar in 1821, settling in Harrison County. They reared a family of eight children, one a minister, Rev. Henry Kenyon. Mrs. Hudson remained with her parents until September 30, 1856, when she was married to Rev. William Hudson, of the Methodist Episcopal Church, North Ohio Conference. Mr. Hudson was a thorough scholar and a self-made man. He served twenty-two years as pastor, commencing in 1850; failing health compelled him to cease his labors. A severe attack of typhoid pneumonia caused his death May 2, 1879, aged sixty-two years. Mr. and Mrs. Hudson had four children, one dying an infant. The living are William W., Henry M. ana Lulu J. M. Rev. Dr. Hudson bought, in 1869, where the family now resides, a farm of 160 acres, paying $3,700; having improved it with a fine house and good outbuildings, it is now valued at $10,000. Mrs. H. belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which she has been a consistent member for the past fifty years.

WILLIAM G. JOHNSON, Sr., was born May 24, 1814, in Providence, R. I. His parents, Philip and Priscilla Johnson, came to Marion County about 1818. Philip Johnson dying soon after this, Mrs. Johnson returned to her native State. At five years of age, William was bound out to E. D. Bates, with whom he remained eighteen years, and by whom he was taught the tailor's trade. He was married to Elizabeth Bickford, daughter of John and Amy Bickford, of Marion. They have had nine children - John B., Samuel C., Mary P. (wife of Edward Kesler), Newton M., Amy E. (wife of Benjamin Burns), Alexander (Baggage Master), Thomas R. (dead), William G. and Lydia A. (wife of Ross Burns). The first three years of married life were passed in Big Island Township; then he went to Marion till 1857, supporting a family of fourteen by digging wells and moving buildings. He worked seven years upon the Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis Railroad. Mr. J. has always been a hard worker, having cleared in his time seventy acres of forest land. He bought a farm of eighty acres at Gurley Station in 1857, but has disposed of that property. Mr. J. has been failing the past few years, losing his right eye by brain fever, 1869. Mrs. J., by breaking both arms, at different times, is permanently crippled.

W. G. JOHNSON, Jr., is the son of W. G. and Elizabeth Johnson, and was born November 9, 1853, in Marion. He obtained bis education in the common school - sufficient for most practical purposes. He is one of Big Island's enterprising young men, having been engaged the past nine years in manufacturing and shipping lumber - often 150,000 feet to one: city. He has also handled 85,000 railroad ties, and followed agriculture to a considerable extent. At present, he and a partner are building tbe " Rayl & Uncapher pike," four miles in length, at $2,100 per mile. He owns five acres within the corporation of Marion, upon which he intends building a good house this fall (1883). He is a bachelor, and lives with and cares for his parents.

ELMUS LONGACRE was born February 16, 1836, in Wyandot County, Ohio. He is the son of Daniel and Harriet Longacre. His father's. grandfather came to this country from Germany early in this century. His father, a soldier of the war of 1812, came from Pennsylvania in 1833 to

Wyandot County, remaining two or three years; then to Big Island Township, remaining until his death in 1867, aged ninety-one years. Mr. Long. acre remained with his parents until his twenty-fifth year. October 25, 1860, he married Sarah J. Morthland, 'daughter of Solomon and Sarah Morthland, of Marion, she dying within a year. He married again, November 27, 1862, Miss Lydia Frederick, daughter of John and Polly Fred. erick, of Illinois. Their children are three - John F., Eugene D. and Isaac. Mr. L. has moved many times, renting first home property three or four years; then was in Missouri four years; then in Ohio, on the old home. place, four years; again in Missouri for fourteen months; then, returning, buying the old Longacre farm, living there seven years; but he purchased his present desirable residence in 1879, consisting of 237 acres, now worth, $15,000. His fine tract of land lies between the C. &. A. and the C., C., C. I. Railroads, upon the Green Camp road. He raises large quantities of wheat and corn annually. Mr. L. has been a member of the Baptist Church for three years. He is a reliable and respected citizeu

DANIEL LUVISI was born in Italy August 15, 1832, son of Vincennes. and Elizabeth Luvisi. He was a soldier in Garibaldi's war of 1848. He came to America in 1856; was robbed of his entire possessions ($15) on the voyage. He peddled the first year or two; then worked upon the Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis Railroad for six years; then, farmed fifteen years, and came to the village of Big Island in 1876, where he has since been engaged as grocer and saloonist. His stock amounts to about $1,200, and his annual sales to $2,000. He married, June 22, 1873, Mrs. Elizabeth Brady, John Brady's widow. He is a member of the Catholie Church, and she of Pleasant Hill Church.

JOHN MATTHEWS was born May 14, 1844, in County Derry, Ireland, whose parents, James and Jane Matthews, came to Philadelphia in 1851, landing June 30, after one month's passage.: They continued five years at the above place. He remained with his parents until his twenty-second. year, when he rented farms for thirteen years, He bought his home in 1877, consisting of 160 acres, paying $7,800; it is worth to-day $10,000. Upon this farm are 900 rods of tile. Mr. Matthews makes a specialty of wheat and corn. He and wife have been members of the United Presbyterian Church for several years. January 21, 1569, he married Miss Louisa Mason, daughter of Joseph Mason, of Scott Township. Their children are six in number - Minnie J.; Wesley J., Florence A., David K., Isabella and John F. Matthews.

MRS. ELIZABETH M. MESSENGER is the widow of Col. Everett Messenger. She was born July 20, 1820, the only child of Caleb and Jane Johnson. Her father was a native of Rhode Island, and her mother of Vermont. The Johnsons were originally from London, England, while her mother's people were from Wales. Her grandfather, Ezekiel Johnson, was a Revolutionary soldier. Her parents moved to Champaign County, Ohio, in 1819, but they came to Big Island Township in 1820, entering 400 acres. Mr. Jobnson drove to this place twelve cows, twenty sheep and several hogs. The Indians were plentiful in that early day. Mrs. M. reealls "Gray Eyes," "Big Trees," "Johnny Cake" and "Between the Logs." Deer aad wild cats were numerous. Her father built the first grist mill (horse power) in Marion County. Mr. J. died in 1833, aged forty-nine years; his wife in 1861. Mr. and Mrs. Messenger were married August 27, 1834, ten children crowning this union, three dying young. Their names are Lucy A. (who married Mr. Smith and since deceased), Reuben W.,

Johnson's estate, but in. time he increased his farm to 1,800 acres, and he was worth at one time not less than $100,000. For thirty-five years, he was an extensive stock-buyer, driving to Detroit and later shipping to New York. He had an office at the Chicago Union Stock Yards. From 1865 to 1878, he shipped regulariy to New York as high as eight to twenty cars of live stock per day. He invested in railroad stocks and the lead mines of Missouri. He was made Colonel of a home company, and passed by that designation ever afterward. He wasa man of uncompromising integrity and liberal views, and was elected to the Lower House of the State Legislature one term. His family associate with the Pleasant Hill Church, of which he was Elder and Treasurer. He died in 1880, aged sixty-eight

-EVERETT MESSENGER was born June 20, 1845, a native of Big Island Township, and the son of Newton and Patience Messenger. He remained at home until the war, when he enlisted, in March, 1864, in Company B,Sixty-fourth Regiment OhioVeteran Volunteer Infantry. He engaged at Rocky Face Ridge and Resaca, where he was wounded in the head. His father brought him homie, after lying some time in the hospital. The following October he returned, and was with Hood's raid. - His discharge dates December 6, 1865. He was also wounded in the left side. June 28, 1866, he married Miss Jane Irvin, daughter of James and Elizabeth Irvin, of County Tyrone, Ireland. His death took place September 16, 1880, leaving six children - Elizabeth A., Charles N., Mary J., James, Alice and Everett. He is a trader and general jobber and a member of the G. A. R.

ORREN MESSENGER is the oldest male resident of Big Island Township, having been born May 29, 1822, at Marietta, Ohio, whose parents, Reuben and Hannah Messenger, came from Connecticut in 1818, and to Big Island Township in 1824, locating the following year where Orren now lives. His primitive home was surrounded for years by fierce wild cats, wolves, deer and Indians. Orren's grandfather, Payne, was a Revolutionary soldier. His father was Magistrate for thirty consecutive years. Mr. M. married, in 1846, Miss Nancy Prettyman, daughter of James and Sarah Prettyman. She died two years later, leaving one child - Matilda, wife of Charles Thompson. In 1850, he married again, Miss Sarah Wolff, daughter of Henry and Susan Wolff. Their children number eight; they are Henry, Wayne, Susan (wife of Thomas Smith), Van, Jane, Elsworth (dead), Albert and Almon (twins) Mr. M. began buying out the old homestead in 1849. He owns at present 180 acres, worth $70 per acre. He is making a specialty of wheat this year (1883), having sixty-five acres. Mr. M. has done many a heavy day's work; for example, in 1850, he cradled five acres of oats in a single day; another day he cut three acres of timothy. He was never excelled in mowing, outstripping the noted "Tommy Smith." He never found the man who could keep up raking and binding after him. He has split 300 rails in one day, and sheared eighty sheep in the same length of time, and fifty sheep upon the average His mother died in 1870, aged ninety-four years.

MRS. PATIENCE MESSENGER is the widow of Newton Messenger. She was born April 14, 1812, in Maine, the daughter of John and Amy Bickford, a soldier of 1812, who came to Marietta in 1815; then in Zanesville and Morgan County until 1831, when they moved to Marion County, locating where she now resides. Mrs. Messenger is one of seven children.

Both her grandfathers, Benjamin Bickford aod Jonathan Stevens, engaged in the Revolutionary war. About her father's door came the deer to skip, the wolves to howl and the Indians to beg. Her people went to Delaware and Urbana to mill Mr. and Mrs. Messenger's marriage took place December 11, 1881. He was a native of Connecticut, born in 1804. His parents came to Marion County in 1825. Their children have been eleven, one dying young. They are George, Amy (wife of James Smith), Norman, David, Elizabeth (wife of Simon Shepperd), Everett, John, Maria (wife of William Worington), Harriet (wife of John C. Weston) and Rivirius. At marriage, Mr. M. entered forty acres. which he increased in time to 1,900 acres, his property being worth at leas: $50,000. For twelve years he was engaged buying stock, driving, at one time 1,500 hogs to Detroit. He was a hard laborer, oneday raking and binding five acres of good wheat. They were both members of the Christian Chureh, of which he was a "Trustee. Mr. M. was highly respected by his neighbors, continuing in office nearly the whole of his life. In the township he was Trustee, Treasurer, Assessor, Justice of the Peace for thirty-six years, and he held the office of County Commissioner for six years. His death occurred in 1882, aged seventyseven years three months and twelve days. Mrs. M. still survives, the grandmother of forty-one and the great-grandmother of three children.

REUBEN W. MESSENGER, a native of Big Island Township, was born April 8, 1844, the son of Col. Everett and Elizabeth Messenger. He obtained a good education, having attended the Marion High School and Delaware College a few terms. lieturning home, he continued with his parents until his marriage, which occurred October 22, 1867, to Miss Violet Wiley, daughter of William and Fanny Wiley. Their children have been eight, five surviving - -Lillie B., Effie M., Col. W., Beatrice A. and Nevey D. Since marriage, Mr. M. has been renting five years before coming where he now lives, which was in 1871. At present he has charge of 160 acres. He is an industrious young man.

LEONARD METZ, aged eighty-nine years, is, beyond question, the oldest man in Big Island Township. His birth took place November 10, 1794, in Washington County, Penn., the son of Margaret and Leonard Metz, both from Germany. His father acted as gun-cleaner in the Revolution, and he himself volunteered for the war of 1812, and was on the march for Norfolk when peace was declared. Leonard came to Big Island Township in 1822, entering the northwestern section of the township, all of which he has given to his children save 140 acres, upon which he continues to reside. When he first arrived, his neighbors were the Woods, the Carpenters and the Hopkins. The following year came Hugh Smith, Mahlon Marsh and Enoch Clark. Wild cats, deer and bears were plenty in that primitive day; the first year of his residence, Mr. Metz killed 160 deer. For fifteen years the family went to the Indian mill at Upper Sandusky. He was acquainted with many of the Indians - Walkers, Abe Williams and the chief Warpole. Mr. M. first married Miss Barbara Michaels, in 1815, and there were sixteen children born to this union, eight dying young, and but six living to-day. Mrs. Metz died in 1868, aged seventy-one years. April 4, 1870, he married Ellen C. Potter, daughter of Samuel and Cyrene Potter, of Cardington, Ohio. They have two children - Lura E. and Belzon L. Mr. Motz has cut and split 200 rails in a day, and has reaped with a sickle thirty-five dozen of wheat. He is at present quietly farming, rearing good stock of all kinds, and is well preserved in body and mind.

JOHN PFEIFFER is a blacksmith, living in Scott Town. His birth took place in Delaware County, Ohio, October 18, 1846, the son of Gregory and Mary P. Pfeiffer, who came from Germany in 1834. Of their eleven children, seven are still living. Joseph learned his trade of his father, and has plied it as follows: Four years with John McElroy and George Pugh; two and a quarter years with Levan Miller; two and one-sixth years with Conrad Fritchey, and four months with Mr. Null. He came to Scott Town in 1878, buying soon after his present residence, a neat house, lot and shop, worth $1,500. His hammer is pounding the year round. Mr..Pfeiffer was threatened by death three different times, viz., by being kicked by a horse, falling off a building and by being run over by a hand-car. He communes with the Catholic Church, while his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His marriage to Miss Minnie Essig, daughter of Andrew and Veronica Essig, of New Orleans, La., occurred in the fall of 1869. Four,children have blessed this union - Louisa, Frank, Joseph and Bessie.

J. W. REDDING is a native of Pickaway County, Ohio, born January 20, 1828, the son of Joseph and Sarah Redding, of Scotch-Irish de scent. At the death of his father, his mother moved with her family, when J. W. was aged four years, to Union County, Ohio. In 1840, they came to Marion County. The most of the time he worked by the day, until his marriage, which took place June 5, 1849, to Miss Axey E. Williams, daughter of Abraham and Sarah Williams. Her death occurred January 19, 1880, aged fifty-four years. At first Mr. Redding, the subject of this paragraph, purchased the "Benjamin Dutton farm," holding it two years; then he moved to Illinois for nine months; thereupon, he returned to the "Gracely farm" nine or ten years. He purchased his present home, however, in 1878, consisting of sixty acres. Later, he added forty acres more, all of . which he values at $65 per acre. His good barn he built in 1874. Here is an index to his laboring ability: "The clearing of thirty-seven acres of forest land in two years, and during his life 125 acres. He was an invalid for two years, the effect of a falling log. In 1864, he enlisted in Company C, Sixty-sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He found no actual service, but accompanied Sherman's march to the sea. His discharge dates. June 18, 1865. His uncles, William, John and Joseph Redding, were soldiers of the war of 1812. Several of their sons were engaged in the Confederate army during the late war. Mr. R. has good stock of all kinds. He is a worthy, upright citizen.

GEORGE RHOADS was born February 1, 1810, in Pickaway County, Ohio, the son of James and Susan Rhoads, who came to Big Island Township in 1828, entering 120 acres, where George now lives. Subsequently he (James) added several hundred acres, and reared a family of ten children. George Rhoads married, March 17, 1889, Drusilla Yoakam, daughter of Absalom Yoakam, of Virginia. They have had twelve children, three dying voung. The names of the living are James M., John, Absalom P., Jesse B., Rachel A. (deceased), Wintield S., Mary E., Francis M. and Alpha O. Both her father, Absalom Yoakam, and his father, James Rhoads, offered themselves for the war of 1812, and her grandfather, Michael Yoakam, and his grandfather, were Revolutionary soldiers. Mrs. R.'s father died aged eighty-five years, and her mother attained the remarkable age of ninety-nine years. Mr. R. bought the old homestead of 172 acres, which by industry he increased to 700 acres, and was worth at one time $45,000. He built his house in 1853. He has good stock upon his.

place. Mr. R. nearly died of the cholera in 1844, but when young he was extraordinarily stout; a seven-pound ax was his choice. With wheat, he often did a two days' work in one. He has been Trustee of the township for fifteen years. Himself and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, Mrs. Rhoads is still strong, and refers with pride to the fact that, when aged thirteen years, she "spun twenty-four cuts of wool in one day," and that for twenty years she "spun and wove and made the clothes for the family."

HORACE W. RILEY was born December 27, 1848, in Marion Township, son of John P. and Sarah Riley, of Scotch-Irish descent, who came from Pennsylvania about 1830, locating in Marion. They raised a family of six children, and the mother still survives. September 6, 1873, he married Miss J. Brisendine, daughter of James and Martha Brisendine, of Georgia. They have four children-- Almeda, Maud, James and John. In 1881, he sold his Hardin County farm, purchasing, where he now resides, 160 acres, paying $60 per acre; it is valued now at $80 per acre. His farm is drained by 700 rods of tile. Two good barns areon his place, the larger being built in 1882, costing $800. Mr. Riley owns two registered horses - " Marquis" and * Belmont Hamlet." Marquis is a full-blooded Clydesdale, impcrted in 1879 by the Powell Brothers, of Pennsylvania, from whom Mr. Riley bought him; he is five years old. Belmont Hamlet is only three years old, and a full-blooded Hambletonian, Kentucky breed. Mr. Riley is fitting him for the track.

JOHN A. SAPPINGTON was born October 17, 1839, the son of Elias and Mary Sappington; she a native of New Hampshire, he a native of Pike County, Ohio. They moved to Big Island about 1830. John A. was a three months' soldier. He married, in June, 1862, Miss Mary King, daughter of James King. She died three years later, leaving one child - Narcissa. Mr. S. married again in 1868, Miss Rachel Postle, daughter of John and Mary Postle, of this place. Their children are three, one dying an infant; Bertha and John survive. Mr. S. inherited the old homestead of seventy acres, valued at $60 per acre. He and wife belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church. f 9 ;

J. K. SMITH is one of the solid, thriving citizens of Big Island Township. He was born July 26, 1842, a native of Marion County and son of Jobn P. and Naomi Smith, who arrived from Virginia in 1829, settling in this county, where they still live, aged eighty years. Originally, the. family were from Germany. At twenty one, J. K. left home, and rented farms for four years. September 25, 1867, he was. married to Miss Mary Beaver, daughter of William and Marian Beaver, who-hail from England. They named their four children Harry, Ralph W., James C. and Florence I. After marriage, he worked upon rented farms for three years more, when he bought 109 acres in Grand Prairie Township, continuing five years. ïn 1876, he purchased his present home of 240 acres of valuable land, at $33 per acre, now worth $65 per acre. This season (1883) he has built a large bank barn, at a cost of $1,000, and an attractive house costing $2,000. He is improving all bis property. The Chicago & Atlantic Railroad bisects his farm. He was Town Trustee for rs. mo JOSEPH SULT was born February 26, 1841, in Cass County, Ind., but his parents, Daniel and Henrietta Sult, were natives of Ohio. His father's ople came from Germany, and his grandfather Blocksom was 1n the war of 1812. When Joseph was eleven years old his father died, but he re- mained with his mother until his twenty-first year, when he enlisted in defeuse of his country, in 1862, in Company E, Ninety-sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. His service continued three years, engaging at Chick- ` asaw Bluffs, Arkansas Post, Vicksburg, Jackson, Grand Coteau, Sabine Cross Roads and Forts Gaines and Morgan. He was honorably discharged May 25, 1865. December 21, 1865, he married Ellen Berry, daughter of John Berry, of Marion, but her death took place three months later. He . married again, April 7, 1867, Mary A. Holverstott, daughter of Jacob and Mary Holverstott, of Marion. Their union has been crowned with three children, one dyinz an infant; the living are Joseph W. and Mary Ella. Mr. Sult rented, first ten years of married iife, but bought, where he now resides, in 1877, eighty-two acres, paying $44 per acre; he values it to-day at $5,000. He is draining and improving his farm generally. He raises considerable grain annually, and keeps the best of stock. Mr. Sult owns a one-half interest in an Aultman-Taylor traction engine, a Huber separator and a Victor huller. He was the first to introduce the Aultman Taylor machines into the county He has threshed as high as 18,000 bushels of grain in a season. With horse-power, he threshed 1,010 bushels of oats in nine hours! He and his wife have been consistent Christians since early life, holding a membership at present with the Evangelical Church, he having acted in all official relations. He is a thrifty, substantial citizen. ym ISAIAH UNCAPHER is one of Big Island's strong men. His birth took place October 29, 1842, and he is the son of Isaac and Susan Uncapher, of Marion County, who came from Pennsylvania about 1838. His fam- : ily originated in Germany, and his grandfather, Rimal, was a Revolutionary soldier. His marriage to Jennie E. Riley, daughter of Elias and Susan Riley, occurred November 5, 1867. The names of their two children are True and Belle. Mr. Uncapher purchased his present residence in 1876, eighty acres, paying $35 per aere; worth at present $70 per acre. He has good fences, and 500 rods of tile buried. He makes a specialty of corn, having this season thirty-five acres. Mr. and Mrs. Uncapher belong to the Free- Will Baptist Church, of which he is both Deacon and Clerk.

JOHN A. UNCAPHER is an enterprising young man, having a fine farm of 100 acres, located near the Scioto River. He purchased this place when heavily timbered, in 1871, at $25 per acre. By thrift and energy he has cleared sixty acres, and now tiles 665 rods. He has also made many other improvements, building, in 1877, a neat little house, with fine, upground cellar and a double corn crib and shed. Mr. Uncapher raises large crops of potatoes: 1881, 400 bushels; 1882, 800 bushels; 1883, 6 acres. He is also Commissioner of the "Rayl & Uncapher pike," in course of construction. Mr. U. was born August 8, 1850, in Marion Township, son of Joseph and Rebecca Uncapher, who came from Pennsylvania, settled in- Marion in 1840, and brought up six children. He was married, February 21, 1877, to Miss Phoebe J. Cummins, daughter of Widow Cummins. Their children are William H. and Jesse D.

JOHN G. UNCAPHER was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, November 23, 1831, the son of John and Anne E. (Williams) Uncapher, of Welsh-German ancestry, and natives of Pennsylvania and Virginia respectively. John Uncapher was born May 14, 1796, and was a resident of Ohio for forty years. His wife was born about 1808, but is now deceased. They had a family of ten childreu, five living - Eliza, Mary M., Margaret, John G. aud Urbane. The' deceased were Thomas, Caroline, Andrew, Joseph (an infant) and Sarah. John G. resided with his parents, in East- ern Ohio, working as tanner for fourteen years. He then followed farming with his father until 1872, with the exception of seven years at Clarkson, Ohio. In that year (1872) he came to Marion County, settling where he now resides. The farm consists of 388 acres, one-half of which has been cleared and put in a good state of cultivation by himself andsons. He has a large, attractive home, and suitable buildings surrounding. March 22. 1860, he married, at New Lisbon, Ohio, Miss Sarah De Wolf, daughter of Peter and Saloma (Sheffer) De Wolf, of German descent, and the parents of five children, four surviving - Maria M., Rebecca, Caroline and Sarah; the deceased was Lewis. Mr. and Mrs. Uncapher have six children - Charles E., Byron D. Mary L., Emma M., Lewis F. and Caroline L. Mr. Uncapher is a thorough farmer, an esteemed citizen, and, with his wife and son Charles, a member of the Disciple Church at Marion. He is a stanch Republican.

THOMAS J. UNCAPHER was born June 12, 1846, the son of Joseph and Rebecca (Stonebarger) Uncapher, of German ancestry. Having received . a common school education, Mr. U. remained with his father farming until 1871, when he moved to his present home, remaining one year; he tben returned tc the homestead, engaging in the dairy business two years; then removed permanently to his farm, consisting of 101 acres. The same year, he married Hannah A. Simons, a daughter of John and Mary Simons. Her death took place in 1880. Mr. U. again married, August 10, 1881, Miss Ida Kenyon, adopted daughter of Martha (Kenyon) Moore. When he located here his farm was a wilderness, but during the ensuing years he has cleared many acres, erected a comfortable house and accompanying buildings; he has also put in several hundred rods of tile. He is an exemplary citizen, and at present is serving his second term as Justice of the Peace in the township. Politically, he is a Democrat.

JOHN WIXTEAD is the third son of Jchn and Winifred (McCough) Wixtead, natives of Ireland, who emigrated to America about 1852, settling in Marion County. The father, with the assistance of his sons, cleared 160 acres of land, which is now in a good state of cultivation. They were the parents of nine children, six living - William, Charles, Patrick, Mary, John and Katie; Michael, Charles and William are deceased. John, having a fair education, married, April 19, 1875, Katie Dwyer, daughter of John and Bridget Dwyer, whose family consisted of four children - Bridget, Mary, John and Kate. ; John Dwyer died in T eland about 1855; his wife died October 17, 1870. Mr. and Mrs. Wixtead have had born to them three children, two now living - Kate M. and Winifred, aged five and three years respectively. Mary W. is deceased. Mr. W. owns the old homestead of eighty-tbree acres, and has the management of eighty acres belonging to his brother Patrick, a dealer in timber and lumber in Marion. He gives his attention wholly to farming and to rearing fine stock. Himself and wife are members of the Catholic Church.

"WILLIAM WIXTEAD is a native of Ireland, born in 1848, the son of John and Winifred Wixtead. He remained at home until he was married, in 1874, to Mary Kerse, daughter of John and Kate Kerse, also natives of the Emerald Isle. These people were the parents or four children, three surviving - Thomas, James aud Mary. Mr. and Mrs. Wixtead have had born to them three children - Michael (eight years old), Kate (five years) and an infant. Mr. W. began life a poor boy, but through industry and perseverance he owns at present eighty acres of land, mostly well improved. His farm is a part of the old homestead. He keeps good stock. |

F. M. WOOD is one of the reliable men of Big Island Township, a naiive of the same, and the son of Isaac and Hannah Wood, who came here from New Jersey. Mr. Wood was the youngest of thirteen children. September 20, 1865, he married Miss A. Z. Southwick, daughter of Jonathan Southwick, of Big Island Township. This union has been crowned by two daughters - Ada F. and Ira A. Mr. W. inherited forty-eight acres from his father, which by thrift he has increased to 110 acres, worth $70 per acre. He has improved this farm with a good house, a new barn and suitable buildings generally. Nearly every rod of his farm is arable. He makes a specialty of corn and grass. His farm is stocked with the best varieties. Mr. W. was Township Trustee for one year, and himself and wife &re exemplary members of the Methodist Episcopal Chureh, of which he hae been Steward for several years.

GEORGE S. WOOD is a native of Big Island Township, born October 7, 1854, the son of Hampton and Susanna Wood. His marriugd to Miss Sarah E. Tufts, daughter of Rev. John Tufts, of the Free-Will Baptist Church, took place October 1, 1877. The names of their three living children are Clarence, Ethel and Jeannette. In 1879, he bcught and inherited his home of ninety acres, valued now at $75 per acre. He is draining and improving his farm generally, and anticipates building soon. He has fine stock of all varieties. Mr. W. has owned a one-fifth interest in a Huber thresher and a Galion engine for three years. They threshed in one day 900 bushels of oats, setting twice, and 650 of wheat another day, setting the same number of times.

HAMPTON WOOD is the oldest living settler in Big Island Township. He was born in 1813, a native of New Jersey and a son of Isaac and Sarah Wood, of Scotch-Irish descent, who came to Marion County, from Clark County, Ohio, in the spring of 1822, entering 160 acres of land, raising a family of twelve children. They drove an ox-team and wagon, bringing plow and farm implements with them. Around him were Taylor, Beech, Clark, the Carpenters, Croy and Jones Cope; the latter he said was the first settler in this county. Isaac Wood was a great worker, raising frequently 100 acres of both wheat and corn. In that very early day he would split 100 rails for a bushel of corn, and take it thirty miles to mill. At first, his children were *ompelled to go barefooted all winter. Mr. Hampton Wood commenced teaching when aged twenty-one years, and taught fourteen terms very successfully. He married, in 1846, Miss Susanna Marsh, daughter of Mahlon and Mary A. Marsh, of Salt Rock Township. Twelve children were born to this union, two dying young; they are Olive (Jacob Yauger's widow), Marsh, John, Dr. James Wood (of La Rue), George, Scott, Eliza (wife of Absalom Rhodes), Pearl; Lawrence and Myrta. He purchased his present residence in 1843, then of eighty acres, which by industry he has increased to 488 acres. He owns land, also, elsewhere, having a total of 800 acres. His property was valued at one time at $45, - 000. He has given each child $3,100. He, together with his wife, inherited $2,900 from their parents. Notwithstanding Mr. W. has been lame all his life, he has done some good days' work. In one season he mowed thirty days for his father, averaging two acres per day; he cradled 120 dozen ot wheat in a day; split 400 rails in same time, and, with ten other hands, he reaped 480 dozen of wheat, with sickle. His brother Jeremiah cut 180 dozen stout wheat in a day, requiring a raker ard two binders to follow.

He could also split 200 rails per day easily. He and wife have been consistent members of the Free- Will Baptist Church, he holding nearly every office. His wife died in 1878, aged fifty-five years. His neighbors have honored him with many township offices - Constable, Treasurer, Clerk and Justice of the Peace. He is still strong, though somewhat deaf, waiting for the call of the Master. His portrait is found upon another page. `

ISAAC M. WOOD, son of the above, was married, September 11, 1878, to Miss Irene Young, daughter of Jacob and Mary Young. Their three living children are Grace, Harry and Dever. Mr. W. rented for three years in Salt Rock Township, and boaght there, in 1876, a farm of eighty acres. He sold that, and purchased, where he now resides, in 1882, eighty acres, paying $48 per acre, worth at present $62.50 per acre. He is buying considerable tile, and keeps fine grade stock. He has followed threshing for five seasons. He is an Odd Fellow, belonging to Kosciusko Lodge of Marion, No. 58.

WILLIAM B. WOOD is one of the old and respected men of Big Island Township. He was born November 24, 1825, the son of Isaac and Hannah Wood, settlers of this place. (See Hampton Wood's sketch for further particulars.) In the winter of 1847, Mr. W. married Miss Malinda Wooley, daughter of Nicholas Wooley, of Hardin County, Ohio. Two children were born in this family, Milton M. surviving. Mrs. W. died in 1854, aged twenty-three years, and Mr. W. married again, February 1, 1855, Miss Rebecca Skates, daughter of Malachijah and Barbara Skates, of this place. Eleven children have been born to them, three dying young; the living are William, Flora C. (wife of Samuel Strutter), Malinda (wife of Daniel Strutter), Edwin, Clara M., Louella A., Nellie. M. (most severely scalded February 27, 1883). Mr. W. received, by inheritance, fifty-five acres of his home, to which he has added forty acres, all valued at $75 per acre. He owns, also, 150 acres in Iowa. He lives in a respectable house, built in 1879. He has been a hard worker, having cleared fifty acres of timber land. In a single day he has cut and split 250 rails, mowed three acres of grass and cradled five acres of wheat, and during the winter of 1845-46, he split 5,000 rails, at 50 cents per hundred.

MRS. MARY O. YAUGER is the widow of Jacob A. Yauger, the daughter of Hampton Wood, and was born November 10, 1848. In 1871, she married Mr. Yauger, a soldier of the late war, of Company K, Fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was first a bugler, and then a member of an army band, serving three years. His death took place in 1880, the Free- Will Baptist Church losing a valuable worker. Mrs. Y., his widow, continues in faithfulness, ministering to her father's declining years. Her only child - Georgie - died soon after his father, aged about