Johnson County, Illinois - The whole text, 1925 (part 6 of 12)

The estate of Alfred Bridges, 1852, was settled almost three quarters of a century ago. The appraiseis were B. S. Smith, D. S. Kincy and lsum Dunn. The descendants of these men are familiar to all at the present time. John ti. Bridges was the administrator. Among the papeis was a bond given Alfred Bridges by George Carter ana James Burton, signed the 8th day of November, 1839 for live stock. There were several receipts which date back to the thirties, one from Filed & Dunn dated December 1, 1834, one dated December, 1830, signed by Williard & Co. Ihis was an account collected for them from Mary McGinnis. Another of the same kind with the names of David Woreii and Reuben Stone. Some of this money was paid in United Sates paper number 2617. The following is 1845 paper signed by Frederick Turner, Millington Smith, Frederick and George, some 1836 paper signed by Richard Eikins, Elias Harell. Alfred Bridges served as a constable and there are some suits named with no date, Thomas Phillips vs. J. W. Laurens, Anson Gurley, Sr. and Jr., P. Horner, Wiley Mathis, Jackson Murrie, Jones and Reynolds vs. Wm. Bowman and Cameron. There is a certificate of election of Alfred Bridges to the office of constable for Vienna precint on the 17th day of June, 1848, D. Y. Bridges clerk. One other paper of honor states that "This is to certify that Alfred Bridges, a private in Captain Taply B. Andrew's Co., R. T. V. M. G. M. has served a term of five months as a volunteer on an expedition against the Seminole Indians. He carries with him the thanks and gratitude of his commanding officer and merits the applause of his countrymen, and is hereby honorably discharged. Columbia, June 30, 1818, signed Thomas Williamson, Col. 2nd R. T. V. M.

The estate of Peter H. Cummins was before the court in 1853 and the administrator was Daniel T. Cummins. His widow was named Harriet. The appraisers were J. P. Shelton, William M. Jackson and N. Comer. Some of the names connected with the estate were Richard and Benjamin Thompson, George Cummins, John Harris, S. Rainwater, H. H. Emerson, William Williams and Thomas Rice. The rate of interest on notes at this date was 10 rr .

At the sale of John C. Harrell, March 10, 1852, 1 loom and appendages, sold for $1.00; 1 spinning wheel sold for 50c, 1 pair of cards, 30c, showing that the home manufacture of cloth was becoming less universal ; 1 stone hammer, 20c; I grind stone, 20c; 1 "chist" $1.40.

At W. H. Price's sale 1854, five hundred feet of lumber sold to William Perkins at 84c; 460 feet of walnut lumber to D. H. Bruck at $1.50 per hundred; 1 log chain and 1 ox yoke, $2.10, 1 carriage to Josiah Throngton $125. Some items from the sale of Francis M. Weaver, which occured in 1855, 8,000 shigles at $2.30, 1 silver watch $6.55, 1 history of North America, $1.59. At Louis Wise's sale, 1863, 1 ox wagon sold for $10.00, 2 yoke of oxen sold to Samuel Glassford for $72.00, 1 barrel whiskey, a quantity of candy and tobacco, only brought $28.00, 1 keg of wine $5.50, 1 barrel of raw whiskey $15.00.

In 1860, Dr. George Bratton received for the care of W. L. Gillespie $25.25. This same estate was debtor to John Gillespie, for board, washing, and attention through sickness, $20.00 per month. A promissory note found in the papers of Nathan Allen, a free Negro living in the western part of the county where some of his descendants still reside, "On or before the first day of December next I promise to pay Nathan Allen, the sum of twelve dollars and fifty cents, which may be discharged in corn at the county selling price for value received of him : Wit. my hand and seal, this the 19th day of August, 1846 - Thomas Stokes." This shows corn to be a legal tender at that time, in the county.

Some items of the sale of Henry Brinkley, 1873, 1 cook stove and vessel, $19.00, 30 bushel wheat at 30c per bushel, 300 bushel corn at 40c per bushel, 2,500 pounds of salt pork, $125.00. During the winter of 1868, James Miller received ten dollars for feeding and caring for the stock for one month from Nancy Swales. This estate was also indebted to J. A. Culver, $6.00 for a coffin.

Matthew Mathis' estate was settled in 1838, Rebecca and Henry Y. Mathis were the administrators. The amount of their bond was $3,050.00. Wilson Mathis was a signature on a note.

Susanna Borin, wife of Bazel Borin. Hoseah Borin was administrator of Bazel Borin's estate 1813. Children of Susanna were Mourning and Coleman.

Recommendations given to these men on leaving their former homes, which seems to have been a custom in early times. State of North Carolina, Moore County: Where as the bearer, Jacob Harvick, has signified to us his intention of removing himself arid family to the frontier of Georgia, be it therefore known to whom it may concern, that the said Harvick has been a resident of the county for upwards of eight (indistinct). Citizen supported an irreproachable character, maintained his family in honesty and credit, worthy to be received as a neighbor or admitted as a worthy character into any Christain society; he being a peaceable, sober and well disposed man. Given under our hands, this 3rd day of October, 1795." (Signatures were indistinct since the writing was in ink.)

State of North Carolina, Wayne County. This is to certify unto all persons whom it may concern that Joel Harrell hath signified unto us, that he has in mind to travel to the westward, and we, the undersigned being well acquainted with him from his youth, do recommend him as a good honest citizen and hope that he may be received and pass as such. Given under our hand this 20th day of August, 1819, S. Sassee, J. P. Edward Sassee, J. P. Joshua Hasting, J. P. and P. J. Mustgraves, J. P.

The first will of record in the county "In the name of God, Amen : I William Peterson, of Johnson County, Illinois Territory, being weak in body but blessed be God of sound mind and memory and seeing my dissolution drawing near do make this my last will and testament, thereby revoking all former wills or disposition of my earthly goods heretofore made. First I direct my body to be buried in a Christian and decent manner and my soul I commend to God who gave it, in joyful hope blessed be God of a happy immortality in heaven. As to my earthy goods, God has given me I dispose and devise them in the following manner:- i direct that all my property of any kind, real or personal, be held and kept in the hands of and in the possession of my beloved wife, Mary Peterson, for her use and the support and education of my infant children, all except a bay filly with a blaze face, which I direct the trustees, I shall hereafter mention, to give to my son Joshua, when he arrives at an age sufficient to manage for himself. I do hereby appoint my brother-in-law Hezekiah West, William Peterson and Thomas Peterson trustees to take care and see that this my last will and testament, be carried into effect, and also I wish and hereby appoint them guardians to and for my infant children, namely Elizabeth, Joshua, and Sally, hereby authorizing and requiring the above mentioned trustees to attend to the requisition to this my last will and testament, which I do hereby sign and acknowledge before the trustees after the same has been read in my hearing. Wit:- my hand and seal, this the 22 day of February, 1815. William Peterson, Sr. witnesses present John C. Herbison, Fannie X Osborn and Nancy West.

From some records of the court it appears this will was not executed as directed. In 1816 Thomas Peterson brought suit against Bennet Hancock and wife to be appointed guardian for Joshua Peterson, minor or William Peterson, Sr. This was annulled by agrement. A summons for William Russell and Mary McGowan to appear as witnesses for Bennet Hancock against the heirs of William Peterson in 1822. An account of Bennet Hancock presented August 1821, shows himself as guardian, and an account against the estate for clothing and keeping the three children, Joshua, Elizabeth and Sally, three years and eight month at $25.00 a year $275. An order of the court shows John Peterson appointed guardian for Josuha, September term, 1820. John Peterson was appointed guardian for Sarah Peterson, 1819. Another instrument shows Alexander McGowan as guardian for Elizabeth, a minor of William Peterson, dated 1821. Bennet Hancock was appointed guardian of Joshua Peterson 1819."

A true copy from the original, Attorney J. Finney, clerk of Johnson County, "To all people to whom these presents shall come, I, Benjamin Mcintosh do send greetings: Know ye that, I, Benjamin Mcintosh of the county of Johnson and Territory of Ilinois, for and in consideration of the good will and affection, which I have and do bear toward my children:- I give to my daughter, Betsy, $5.00 in property, I give to Unity one half dollars worth of property, 1 give to Ceny $2.00 worth in property, I give to Stacy $2.00, 1 give my son, Benjamin $2.00 worth of property, all to be discharged in cattle at their value. I give my beloved wife Frances my gray mare, saddle and briddle, and the improvement and my household furniture, eleven head of cattle and my hogs, and at my wife Frances decease the cattle to be given to Joshua, cattle and all other property. To my son Charles I give my gray horse, and all my work ing tools, I give John Burchfield, my sorrel mare, and I give William Smith one cow and one fifty dollar note on John Lathan and by these presents do freely give and grant unto those children articles mentioned. Before the signers of these presents, do deliver those things signed with my own hand forever, absolutely, without any manner of condition, in witness hereunto I have set my hand and seal, this the 17th day of November, A. D. 1815, signed Benjamin Mcintosh, signed, sealed and delivered in the presence of James Hamilton, Charles Claxton and William Hamilton."' "In the name of God Amen: I Nathanial Green, of Illinois Territory, Johnson County, being very sick and weak in body, but of perfect mind and memory, thanks be given unto God, calling unto mind the mortality of my body, and knowing that it is appointed for all men to die, do make and ordain this my last will and testament, that is to say say principally and first of all, I give and recommend my soul into the hand of Almighty God, that gave it, my body, I recommend to the earth to be buried in decent, Christian burial, at the discretion of my executors, nothing doubting but at the general resurrection, I shall receive the same again, by the mighty power of God, and as touching such earthly estate where with it has pleased God to bless me in this life, I give demise and dispose of the same in manner and form, first I give and bequeath to Mary, my dearly beloved wife, a certain bay mare rising of three years old, also I give to my well beloved daughter, Nancy Green, a certain negro woman named Hannah, also the rest of my property to be valued and equally be divided amongst my loving wrife Mary Green and my loving children, that is to my beloved son Maston Green, and also to my loving son David Green, and to my loving son William Green, and also to my loving daughter Elizabeth Green. I also constitute and ordain my well beloved brothers. Parish and

Thomas Green, Executors of this my last will and testament, witness thereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this the 29th day of January, 1813. Signed, Nathanial Green, Test. David Coleman, Robert Tweedy, John Tweedy.

Will of Elizabeth Douglas, "This the 27th day of June, 1831, I being in low health, but in sound mind and memory I make this my last will and testament. I want Squire James Copeland to take my three boys Jackson, William and Clinton and raise them, and after my debts are paid and settled I give Jackson the bay mare's colt, the little sorrel, then I want Mr. Copeland to take the rest of my property and to do the best he can for my children, in the name of the Lord, I give the balance to J. Copeland to raise the children, and this is my last will and testament. Signed Elizabeth Douglas, Test. Hiram Shocklea Thomas Harrington."

State of Illinois, Johnson County, October 20, 1820, "In the name of God, Amen, I, Abner Cox, being in low circumstances in bodily health, but feeling myself in sound mind and memory, I do hereby make this my last will and testament: To my dear beloved wife, Mary Cox I give into her possession at this time with all property and money that is in my possession at this time, with all the money that is coming to me in North Carolina. My will is that all the money that I now have and the money that is coming to me should be given for land in this state for the use of my wife and children. My will is that my wife should hold the possession during her life or widowhood and at her marriage or death all to be equally divided amongst my children and wife. The two half quarters that I now have paid for of land lying in Union County, my will is that my son Abner Cox should have the two half quarters of land, besides the other division to him his heirs and assignees, also my will is that my wife should have out of the money as much of it as will be necessary for her to fix herself and family to live comfortably upon, also the money that is coming to me from S. J. Chapman, my will is that my wife should collect it as she can. I constitute and appoint my wife executrix to this my last will and testament, assigned Abner Cox, witnesses, E. Harrell, Joel Howell, and John Veach."

Notes taken from Randolph County records at Chester Illinois before Johnson County was separated from it, containing names of Johnson County families.

George Fisher name on record, 1802 ; Robert Cox name on record, 1805; Richard Lord vs. Isaac Cox, 1892, Moses Oliver vs. Leroy Elliot, 1802.

William Elms seal on a deed, 1797, from James Dunn to John Edgar, Deed 1905 John Kennedy only son and heir to David Kennedy who entered land from Congress 1790 on the improvement of James Taylor. (Elms is a name of the early Johnson County) William Dunn vs. William Kelly case of Treaspass brought before George Fisher and Samuel Cochran judges 1806. William Cochran had a court case, 1803; Charles B. Wilcox, 1803; Joseph Worley court case, 1805.

Court record No. 25 John Price vs. James Finny 1806 a case of treaspass amount $160.00. Robert Morris clerk, James Edgar sheriff, Pierre Menard, George Fisher and Samuel Cochran, judges. Finny recovered $7,001/2 for his cost and charges. Lary Oliver adminstrator of William Dunn, deceased, John Worley and John Murdoc connected with the case, 1807. William Simpson sued Hampton Pankey for $300.00, 1808. James Oliver, a minor by his next friend John Worley vs. Primal Hayward, a case of slander.

1807. William Simpson vs. Elisha Hicks, lawsuit, 1809. James Finny and William Greenup administered on the estate of Moses Oliver, 1808. Jesse Kennedy, law suit,

Grand jury September, 1809: Issac White, foreman, Samuel Cochran, William Simpson, John Morris, John Hibbins, William Choffin, John Worley, Ephriam Bilderbeck, Josiah Cox, Jacob Bowerman, William Stiles, William Murphey, John Phelps, Thomas Griffin, Samuel Andelway, James Stell, Ghershom Clementson, Alexander Blair, and William Alexander. Cochran, Simpson, Morris, Worley, Cox, Stiles and Phelps are all names of families of early settlers of this county.

A grand jury of Randolph County, 1808 : William Alexander, John Worley, James Henderson, William McLaughlin, John Everett, Robert Kidd, Ralph Drury, Alexander McNabb, John Crawford, Joseph McCourtney, Joseph Archambeau, B. Forture, Jacob Funk, William Evere, John Dees and Reuben Lacy. Kidd and Lacy of Massac County fam-

Court Records

The first court of Johnson County - Proceedings of a special court held at the house of John Bradshaw, within and for the County of Johnson for the purpose of doing county business, on the fifteenth day of January, 1813. Present: The Honorable Hamlet Furguson, Jesse Griggs, Judges: The court having taken into consideration the necessity of dividing this county into townships agreeably to a law of this territory, authorizing the judges of the court of common pleas, to make such division when it appears to them to be necessary; proceeded with an s$t off the townships in the following manner, to-wit : The district that lies at the eastern corner of this county on the Big Bay waters and at present known by the name of Captain Whiteside's Company and agreeably to the boundaries of said company, as laid off by a board of officers, shall be created into one township and called the Township of Big Bay. And the company of Captain Grifith's on Muddy in like manner and agreeably to the boundaries thereof, shall be called and known hereafter by the name of the Township of Muddy. And the company boundaries of John Bradshaw shall be called and known by the name of the Township of Center. Captain Green's Company in like manner shall be known by the name of Clear Creek Township. Captain Lamb's Company shall be known by the name of Cache. And Captain Fox's Company shall be known by the name of Massac township. Ordered that William Penny and Thomas Furguson be appointed overseers of the poor for the township of Big Bay; Clement Davis and Henry Noble overseers of the poor for the township of Muddy ; Owen Evans and John B. Murry overseers of the poor for the township of Center ; William Joslin and George Wolf, overseers of the poor for the township of Clear Creek ; Federick Talbot and Joseph Kuykendall overseers of the poor for the township of Cache; Jonah Hibbs and John Prichard overseers of the poor for the township of Massac. Ordered that John Damsil be appointed Constable in the township of Big Bay and N. Hukam in the same on his giving bond agreeably to law; Meeks, Constable of Muddy; Amos Barker and Henry Giles, Constables for the township of Center.

Jeremiah Brown Constable for the township of Clear Creek Andrew Kidd and James B. Johnson appointed Constables for the township of Massac. Ordered on motion of Susannah Borin by her attorney, Thomas C. Brown, that a scirefaces is issued against Hoseah Borin to appear at our next September term to show cause why letters of administration granted him by the court of the counjty in vacation should not be repealed. Henry Giles came into court and prayed leave of the court for indulgence until next September term to make return of his inventory and sale list of the estates of Samuel Giles and Thomas Winkler, which he was bound to do at this court as administrator of said estates. Ordered that leave be granted accordingly. The sheriff is authorized to contract with John Bradshaw or any other person for building a stray-pound, furnished with a lock and gate according to law, to be erected at the court house by next September. Giles Stewart produced a receipt from the sheriff of the county for $15.00 for a deposit for license to deal in merchandise agreeably to law, which the clerk is ordered to issue. On application of Thomas Furguson to keep a tavern where he now lives, the court ordered "that the clerk do give the same on his paying three dollars for the use of the county and one dollar for the use of the clerk," Thomas C. Paterson entering into bond with him as the law directs. Ordered that the clerk do issue a license to William Simpson to keep a tavern where he now lives on his paying to the clerk $5.00 for the use of the county and one for the use of the clerk. The above taverns are allowed to charge the following rates, whiskey 12^c per half quart, meals victuals, 25c, horse feed 12V&, hay 12V&C, lodging 12Vkc. Ordered that this court be adjourned until court in course. Hamlet Furguson, presiding J. C. C. : Attorney J. Finny, Clerk.

At the September court, 1813, J. Griggs and John B. Murray are the judges. Thomas and Parish Green as executors of the estate of Nathaniel Green are ordered to hire out a negro girl, full particulars in "Customs." The other orders of this court are explained in other chapters also those of the court of January 14, 1814. At the May term 1814, John Byers as commissioner, furnished a list of taxable property of the county for the years 1813-14. The record does not give the amount which would be very interesting at this time, one hundred and ten years later.

Byers was allowed two dollars per day for his work and it required thirty-eight days. J. Finny's bill for making the tax list was twenty dollars, making a total expense of $86.00 Thomas C. Paterson is referred to in this court as sheriff; one Gilbert Marshall was deputized under Paterson and took the oath prescribed against dueling. The February court, 1815 allowed Owen Evans $25.00 for building a stray pounds, and T. C. Paterson was allowed $3.00 for keeping the same since November, 1813. The first will is recorded at this time. At the September term, 1815, Jane Morris was licensed to keep tavern at Elvira, the first woman to have a license for this business in this county. On the January court records of 1816 the names of the Petit Jury were given as follows : J. Hawkins, Charles Murphy, Bennet Hancock, Benjamin M. Huss, Christopher Howlin, Issac Worley, Adam Clapp, John Peterson, Joshua Davis, James Davis, Hoseah Borin and John Gore. The rate of tax was fixed at this time on each horse, mare, mule, or ass fifty cents on every bond servant or slave one hundred cents; on Thomas Furguson, Thomas Green and John Earthman's ferries eight dollars each; on Charles Bradley, William Smith , Hamlet Furguson, Reuben Glover, Obadiah Russell, Samuel Penrod. and Lewis Crane's ferries, three dollars each ; William Lawrence's mill on Cache, sixty cents ; quite a sum of revenue was realized to the county from ferries. Center township was divided at this time. The clerk of the county was ordered to furnish a list of license granted tavernkeepers in the county, and that the sheriff prosecute all persons known to violate the law retailing spirits without license. The selling of liquor was an annoyance in the county as early as 1816. It is still done in violation of the law, as the late prosecutions will show under our efficient mayor, Dr. Robert McCall, 1916, just one hundred years later. Hamlet Furguson is on the record of this court as sheriff. There is also a new judge or commissioner, Marvin Fuller. Up to this time Hamlet Furguson, Jesse Griggs, John B. Murry and John Bradshaw had held the courts.

At the June court, 1816, Johnathan Ramsey was entered as an attorney having presented a license from the United States Judges of the Circuit Court. Another item, "Cyrus Butler an orphan boy was bound to T. C. Paterson." Ordered that a special court be held on the third Saturday in July next for the purpose of hearing the case of Cath- erine Circe in the prison bounds for debt. An appropriation was made to build a bridge across Bradshaw Creek. At the special term which was to be held in the interest of Catherine Circe. Peter Prow, who was also confined in jail for debt, gave notice that he would take advantage of the oath provided for insolvent debtors. Extract from special term July, 1816: Catherine Circe imprisoned for debt this day came into court and having filed and subscribed a schedule agreeably to law; took the oath, the statute provided for the relief of insolvent debtors. The September session, 1816, is about the same routine.

At the November term, 1814 the Attorney General for the territory not appearing, the court appointed Robert Mc- Laughlin, to act. The case for the theft of persimmon beer was disposed of. Another case was Hoseah Borin vs. Bradshaw in which the defendant proved that Basil Borin gave the negro girl in question to his daughter Mary Young. The proof was made by John Borin. At the June term of the same year at a circuit court T. C. Brown was appointed by Ninian Edwards Governor as prosecuting attorney for that district consisting of Gallatin, Edwards and Johnson Counties. Henry F. Delaney produced a license to practise in the courts of the Territory.

Court Notes

Robert Henderson had James Lutes bound to him to learn the black smith trade January, 1814. In 1816, David Shearer was licensed to keep tavern on Big Bay, William Lawrence operated and kept tavern somewhere on Cache, the same year. Robert Tweedy, John Bowman and John McHenry were licensed to keep tavern, 1816. At the February term, 1816, Fanny Doyle, James Miles, Phillip Shaver, Stephen Quinby, Carter Hall, Sarah Bunts, Ervin, Granville, and Bud Morris all drew wages for guarding the jail. The June term the same year T. C. Paterson was allowed £10.00 for his services as Prosecuting Attorney. Jacob Wolfe was appointed guardian for the orphan children of George Davis to-wit: James, John, Anna, Abraham, Wil- 'ic>m and Gecrge, all miners. Bennett Hancock was made guardian to Elizabeth, Sarah, and Josuha Peterson, minor children of William Peterson. Susannah Borin was allowed forty-three dollars and twenty-five cents for the care of

Another record of the court of 1814 was the buying of wolf scalps from Charles Shearer and George Evans, for which they paid seventy-five cents each.

At the January court, 1817, there were several commissioners appointed to assess the property of the county instead of one, Irwin Morris for the township of Elvira; Joseph Palmer for the township of Clear Crsek ; John Whitiker for Center; William Smith for Cache; Hezekiah West reported at this time, $1,345.07, monies collected by him as administrator of the estate of James Weaver, deceased. He asked the court to instruct how to dispose of the money, which the court directs he shall hold in his hands until he can let it out on good security, according to law. This was a pretty fair estate for those days. The court opened February 21, 1817, Russell E. Heackock was appointed as attorney for the court to prosecute all violations of the law for the purpose of regulating taverns and was allowed the same fees as the attorney of the District. A second order is made by the court for the regulation of taverns, the price of a meals victuals is reduced to 12 V2 cents, brandy is 18% cents per pint ; cognac 25 cents per pint, for keeping a horse twenty-four hours, with corn, and hay or fodder fifty cents. The rates on ferries were readjusted at this time.

It might be of interest to name some firms doing business up to this time, beside those already mentioned: Edward Pointer, Joshua Gross, John Span, George Smiley. David Brock and Young, John Martin, Dukeson Givens & Co., Christopher Sudham, David Shearer, Levi B. Witt & Co., John McHenry and W. D. Fuquay, all these are recorded as purchasing retail license to sell liquor. A great deal of the county revenue was obtained from distilleries at this time. "On the cash book may be found the following entries, William Lawrence, duties on still $20.00; Robert Hays, duty an spirits distilled, 264Yi gallons $66.18 ; Linkhorn Harper, tax on 42 gallon of whiskey $11.25; John Whitiker, entered his still of the capacity of 75 gallons to be used in distilling domestic spirits for five months to begin 23rd of March, 1817, bond given for $67.00 with Anthony Morgan and Robert Hargrave, security. Other distilleries were William Echols, John Smith, John Grammer, George Haygood, Elija Bryant, and Hazelwood & Darby. This in- eludes all the merchants and distilleries up to the time when the territory became a state. The name of Weir & Campbell appears on the court records frequently, but there is no record of a license having been granted them.

The first grand jury of record is as follows: March, 1814. Jesse Eads, foreman, Jacob Harvick, Abraham Russell, Benjamin Mcintosh, David Wright, Jesse Cochran, Joseph Giles, Levi Graham, George Brazel, Henderson, Isiah Palmer, William Hubbs, Jacob Wolf, Peter Bitmesser, John Grammer John Whitiker, William Lawrence, and J. N. Fox. At this court Elias K. Kane was entered as an attorney. March, 1814, John Bradshaw is allowed $2.00 for furnishing wood and building fires at the November term of court. Jacob Harvick is allowed $8.00 for wolf scalps.

On Wednesday, June 28, 1815, the following act of Congress is recorded: "An act of Congress regulating and defining the duties of the United States Judges for the territory of Illinois. It is allotted to Jesse B. Thomas, to preside in the first district circuit; to Wm. Sprigg to preside in the second circuit; and to Stanley Griswold to preside in the third circuit." In June of the following year Thomas Towles is assigned to preside in the third district court. On October, 1817, among the transactions of this court was the buying or paying premiums for wolf scalps as follows : James McLain, Moses Davison, Robert Hargrave, David Mclnturf, Willis Borin, John West, Levi Paterson, Robert Lott, Adam Clapp, Benjamin Darter, and Samuel Nally, were each allowed $2.00 a piece for scalps. Anthony Morgan $10.00 for five scalps, Samuel Penrod $4.00 for two scalps, Elija Wells $5.25 and William Harrington $3.00 for four scalps. Robert Lott seventy-five cents for one, Samuel Ellms, $4.00 for two scalps.

At the July term of this year Hezekiah West is ordered to pay over the money belonging to the Weaver estate. At another court held in 1817, John, Abraham and Anna Davis are bound to Daniel Kimmel. These are the orphan children of George Davis. Patsy Clark is appointed guardian for her two children, George and William. John Weldon was made guardian for the orphan children Joseph, Abraham, Nancy and Napoleon Collins. John Stokes was made guardian for William and Sally, orphans of Ezekiel Robinson.

At a court held in Elvira, Johnson County, March 6, 1818, by Hezekiah West, John Bowman, Andrew Cochran, James Bain and William McFatridge the commission appointed by the Legislature to decide on a permanent seat of justice for this county reported that they had met at the house of James Bain first Monday in February, 1818, and after being sworn to take in the geography of the county and the convenience of the people adjourned to meet on the fourth Monday of the same month, after gaining a perfect knowledge of the different situations around the center finally determined and designated a spot for the permanent seat of justice for the county on the S. E. quarter of sect. 5. township No. 13 S. R. 3 east near the northeast corner of the said quarter section. This report was made to the above court on the date given and signed by Isaac D. Wilcox and James Bain. The donation was made by Samuel Mc- Clintock, of Shawnetown, Illinois. Ty. and John W. Gore, George Brazel, James Simpson, Irvin Morris and William Thornton entered into the security of said bond in the sum of $5,000.00, dated March 7, 1818. The donation fixed by the Legislature was 20 acres but the agreement fixed by the court was 30 acres for the use of the county to be delivered April 1, 1818. Hezekiah West and James Evans were made agents of the court to meet the proposition of McClintock. On April 10, 1818, they met as agreed and the town was laid out as follows: "Beginning 20 pole due south of McClintock's quarter (the northeast corner of James Bridges lot) running due west 84 pole as far as to embrace the west brow of a certain ridge (just beyond the Perkins Hotel, 7th street) thence due south (beyond the John Bain property, east beyond the Catholic church and John Clymore's residence and north to the place of beginning so as to inclose 3o acres in a rectangle, the longest way is to be east and west."

Court 1818, J. Finney drew his yearly salary which was $30.00 as clerk of the county. The expense for holding the election of the delegates to the Constitutional Convention were allowed at this court. Hezekiah West and William McFatridge were elected the first Monday in July, 1818. The name of Vienna was given the county seat at the July session of court. Another item is the ordering of the sale of city lots in Vienna, sale to take place the third Monday in September, 1818. At a special term of court held August 15, 1818, James Bain, Andrew Cochran, William Simpson, T. C. Paterson and John Copeland, justices, the report was made that the courthouse and the building for the jurors were complete. They were received by the court and the officers of the county were orderd to move their offices to the new building in the town of Vienna.

The buying of wolf scalps is the first business recorded of the first court held in Vienna, November, 1818. The premium was paid to W. Bivins. Isaac D. Wilcox applied and received permission to keep a tavern at his store in Vienna. The second court was a special one, James Bain, Andrew Cochran and John Copeland, justices, presided. Irvin Morris as sheriff, settled his accounts with the court, and the court approved the sale of lots at Vienna and accepted the notes for the same. Martin Harvick is allowed $6.00 for acting as deputy sheriff at the late election held in September. James Finney was allowed a like amount as clerk. T. C. Paterson and Andrew Cochran received $6.00 each for acting as judges at the same election.

At the court held in June, 1819, Randolph Casey on giving bond for $150.00 paying $4.00 for the use of the county, $1.00 for the clerk, and giving John Peterson for security, was allowed to keep tavern in Vienna. Ivy Reynolds under like regulations with William Cavenough as security, was likewise licensed. James Jones was appointed treasurer for the county. A payment was ordered to George Brazel for building the court house and jury rooms. Irvin Morris as sheriff was ordered to have prepared a convenient bar and bench for the jury as well as other repairs for the court buildings. The county was beginning to take on the airs of a first class court properly housed. The court recommended at this term Hezekiah West, Isaac Worley, William McFatridge and John S. Graves to the governor for justices of the peace. There are two new names as commissioners at this time, James Crunk, and David Elms. September, 1819, some changes were made in townships, a contract was let for building a jail, a stray pound was ordered built in the public square, full particulars are found in other sections.

At the April term, 1820, Sterling Adams was granted a license to vend merchandise in the county, for which he paid $10. The salary of the sheriff for one year, $54.70, was ordered paid. It compares in no way with our present sheriff's salary of $1,500 and $1,000 for deputy hire. James Bain and Joseph McCorcle were elected commissioners of the court. Joseph Kuykendal, was appointed to take the census for that year; James Hawkins built the stray pound contracted by Irvin Morris. The tavern rates were raised to 37V2C per meal. In 1821 Isaac D. Wilcox petitioned the court to establish a ferry on the Ohio River and also for license to keep tavern at the same place.

Courts of 1823 - Jacob Harvick is allowed $8.00 for wolf scalps, James Copeland as sheriff, was ordered to buy a guage to meet the standard of the act passed by the general assembly for the use of the county. Joseph McCorcle was appointed treasurer, to succeed H. West, who had succeeded James Jones, John Copelsmd was appointed assessor for the year 1825.

The first judges came with Ninian Edwards, and were called territorial judges. Jesse B. Thomas, Alexander Stewart and Obidiah Jones were the first appointed. Jones and Stewart soon resigned and their places were filled by Stanley Griswold and William Sprigg. These three judges held all the courts of the territory, called Supreme or General courts, having concurrent jurisdiction in all cases pretaining to personal property and real estate, and exclusive jurisdiction in higher criminal offences and equity, and it was also a court of appeals. The Hon. William Sprigg held the courts for Johnson till the constitution of 1818 which consisted of a supreme judge and three associates. The first chosen were Chief Justice Joseph Phillips, T. C. Brown, John Reynolds and William P. Foster associates, was adopted, establishing the supreme court. The court of Common Pleas consisted of five justices, appointed by the governor. They met four times a year, and had charge of all civil cases. The territorial law made it possible for two or more of these justices to hold the court. Johnson was in the third judicial district. The provisions for courts were changed from time to time by the legislature, till 1848 when the Supreme court of three judges was established, one to be elected from each of the three divisions of the state for nine years. Nine judicial circuits were also established, and each judge served six years; two terms of circuit court, were required held annually in each county. In 1877 the number of circuits were increased by creating thirteen circuits of three judges each. In 1879 the circuits were increased to seventeen, and Johnson with Alexander, Pulaski, Massac, Pope, Union, Jackson, Williamson and Saline, constitute the first district. The salary of a circuit judge is $6,500 per annum (1924). Heretofore it had been $3,500. Johnson County has had the honor of two representatives on the circuit bench, Judges 0. A. Harker and A. K. Vickers, the latter was also elected to the Supreme Court and served as Chief Justice of the state.

First page of the court, called court of Common Pleas, "Illinois Territory, Johnson County, S. S. pleas before the Honorable Hamlet Furguson and Jesse Griggs, Judges of the court of Common Pleas to-wit : Henry Hatten Plaintiff against Henry Skinner def endant-treaspass : Be it remembered that heretofore, on the twenty-fourth day of February, one thousand eight hundred and thirteen, the following Capias, adrespodendum, to-wit: The United States to the sheriff of Johnson County, greeting, you are hereby commanded to take Henry Skinner, late of this county, if he be fond in your Baliwick and him safely keep, so that you have his body before our judges at our court of Common Pleas next to be holden for the county of Johnson at the House of John Bradshaw, on the second Monday of March next, to answer to Henry Hatton of a plea of trespass, on the case to the damage of the said Henry Hatten, One hundred dollars, as it is said, and do you have him, then, there. This witness, James Finney, clerk of said court for the county aforesaid, given under my hand and private seab (there being no county seal) this twenty-fourth day of Feb. one thousand eight hundred and thirteen, and of the Independence of the United States, XXXVII, J. Finney." "Endorsed, which said writ had on it the following endorsement to-wit; this is an action on the case, no bail is required unless ordered by the judges, J. Finney clerk." Which said writ was returned to our said court at the March term, 1813, with the following return on it, to-wit: "Cepi corpus. March 6, 1813, John Bradshaw, Dept. Sheriff, twenty-five miles." A bond for securing the cost was filed by the plaintiff in the following words and figures to-wit: "Henry Hatten vs. Henry Skinner in the Common Pleas of Johnson County, March term, 1813, I do hereby enter myself security in the cost of the above case, agreeably to the law of the territory. Signed and sealed Amos B. Barker." A second case was Henry Hatten plaintiff, Samuel Penrod, defendant. The case was called covenant broken and re- quired bail J. B. Bailey was the bail given, and Thomas C. Patterson was the sheriff and signed twelve miles. The covenant broken was an agreement between these two men who had bought six saltpeter caves, each to pay equal parts, and each to have equal parts, the caves lying on Big Muddy and Cedar Creeks, Randolph (later Johnson) County. They were to work them in partnership, finding and working equal parts, each to have equal parts and to make the powder in the same manner, neither to quit nor sell his part. If he does, he loses his part. This is signed by Samuel Penrod and Henry Hatten. The agreement was dated June 15, 1811. Joseph Conway was the attorney for the defendant. There was some flaw in the plaintiff's suit. The bill of costs was clerk fees, $4.89, sheriff fees, $1.96, attorney's fee $2.50, total cost $9.35. Test. J. Finney clerk, execution issued December 24, 1814."

A third case was John B. Bailey against Frederick Talbot and John Harris. Fourth case: Hoseah Borin against W. M. Cryder, B. M. Piatt, J. B. Murry. The total costs werein one case, $8.37 ; and in an other $6.72. There is a record of an attachment against David McElmunny in favor of John Greething. Other men connected with this case were Joseph Thompson and Levi Hughes. Greething rendered an account against McElmunny as follows : 100 bushels of corn $50.00, to flat on ferry boat, $10.00, by articles, $10.00, 424 cwt. of pork $12.00, to one steer lent, $8.00, to rent $25.00. Jeptha Hardin was the attorney, cost of suit, $5.59. Moses Rhodes sued I. D. Wilcox for a debt in the July court, Rhodes paid the cost which amounted to $12.12. The next case H. W. Robins and John Prichard against I. D. Wilcox ; the plaintiff again had to pay the cost through mistake. John Phelps vs. Stephen Kuykendall in the March term 1813, for debt, Bail was required for Kuykendall's appearance in court and Walker Daniels was the bail. April term, 1813, is a case of Elisha Hicks vs. William Simpson, in which the following note is exhibited, "For value received I promise to pay Elisha Hicks or order, two likely three year old steers, to be delivered in a yoke, on or before the first day of October, as witness my hand and seal, this the 30th day of May, 1808 - William Simpson." William Simpson, Jr., was the bail for William Simpson, Sr.

Hied and read as follows: "State of Kentucky, Livingston County, ss. Pleas, before the Hon. Wm. Wallace, Judge of the Livingston Court, David Caldwell and Joshua Saxson, assistant judges, to-wit: Jackob Hardin, asignee of Arthur Morgan, who was assignee of Edward Talbot, plaintiff, against Stephen Kuykendall and John Phelps, defendants, in debt." The record further shows that a writ was issued against these two men on the 8th day of March, 1806, in said county and state. Enoch Prince, clerk of the court, and the writ had the following ; Peter Laren, bail ; Thomas Cist, sheriff. At a later court with Ninnan Edwards, afterward Governor of Ilinois, presiding Judge, 1806; Jacob Hardin sued John Phelphs, Mujah Phelps went on the bond of John and in this case, Rezin Davage was the attorney. The cause for the case was a note to-wit: "Twelve months after date we or either of us, do promise to pay to Edward Talbot or his assignee the sum of thirty dollars and twenty-two and one half cents, ($30.22V2) for value received from him, October 15, 1803. " November term, 1813 term opens with a case of trespass, with Henry Noble Plaintiff, and Samuel Simpson, defendant; H. Day as J. P. ordered a bond for Simpson's appearance in the sum of ninety-nine dollars, but his opponent, exonerated him from giving a bond, William Russell was the attorney for Noble. John Borin of Center Township was called by the court to answer for assault and batery against Stephen Kuykendall. J. Weaver was the foreman of the grand jury that brought the indictment. N. Huckison was the witness and William Mears was the Attorney General. The jury called in this case was composed of Jacob Craft, Lion Claxton, Andrew Clapp, Obadiah and Henry Russell, Robert Reed, Richard Davis, and Abraham McCowan, with other familiar names.

At this court, John Earthman was indicted for assault and battery on John W. Calvert, the same, no doubt, that married William Simpson Sr's. daughter. He was acquited. Next we have John Harris, who resided in Clear Creek Township, sueing John Barnhart for treaspass. This case seems to have run into a kind of attachment suit, Harris against J. Barnhart and J. B. Bailey, about a note that had been lost and found, and which read as follows, "November 26, 1813, Frederick Talbot and John Barnhart agreed to run the Darling filly, a dark chestnut sorrel, against a bright bay horse, 1-year old past, for $120.00 in good horse flesh, if not the forfeit is $30.00. A catch to be run on the 9th day of December, in Barnhart's paths. - John Barnhart Federick Talbot." The jury, was David D. Holder, Willis Standard, William Tripp, Charles Perrin, Joseph Smalley, beside others named before. The jury found for the defendants. The Weaver vs. W7ilcox case grew out of one of them saying, that the other had run off his negro girl. This was frequently done by dishonest parties in the days of slavery. They would take negroes belonging to someone else, take them south and sell them. The following are from the March term of 1814. The first is a case of the United States against Isaac Jerett, on complaint of Susan Sampson about a club ax. This was orginally tried before Hezekiah West, J. P. George Butler was Jerett's bail. Richard Stiles and John Mackej^ were witnesses. Jerette lived in Center Township. This is about all that would be interesting to any reader at the present time. The next is a suit of Hugh Logan against William Robinson, which is another long drawn out case. Hugh Logan it appears was versed in the art of making powder and entered into an agreement with William Robinson, to build a powder mill on the west branch of Clear Creek. Logan was to teach Robinson to make powder and they were to work together. Logan was to have five pounds of every six of powder that was made, and Robinson was to have one of every six. Logan brought suit against Robinson in the sum of $1,000, saying that Robinson did not work or furnish any material but took forcibly all the powder. Logan was given $25.00 damages. The cost in this .case was unusually large for that time, clerk fees, $42.70 !/>, for witness attendance, $8.22, attorneys fee, $2.50, sheriff's fee $40,321/,, jury fee $3.00.

Another suit at this court was that of William Hamilton who brought suit agaist John Barnhart of Cache township. Joseph Lawrence of the same township and Moses Travern for assualt and battery. Abraham Smally was appearance bail for John Barnhart and Henry Giles for Moses Travern. Thomas Giles acting as deputy sheriff, G. W. Moore was the principal witness. The trial discription of this case is a little amusing and one gathers from the evidence that Hamilton was drunk. They first attacked him. The witness says that Hamilton "whooraid" for Gen- eral Washington, then Barnhart placed him in a chair, so that he fell out, then Barnhart wanted him to drink friends, which Hamilton refused to do, but drank more and hurrahed some more, till William Lawrence came in, and said it was a shame, and that he would not have such doings on the Sabbath day. Hamilton, from the testimony, decided he would go to bed. Moore took him to a house and ser him by the fire and went to bed. When Moore awoke, he heard Travern say, "For God sake, don't let him burn up," and pulled him out of the fire. Barnhart held a tallow candle to the fire and rubbed it on the said Hamilton, who was naked. The next morning I saw Joseph Lawrence tearing off Hamilton's overalls, about the seat. This is only part of Moore's testimony and is used to demonstrate the character of some of our early settlers and the part that the manufacture and sale of whiskey played in our early civilization.

Very few women had lawsuits in those days, but Betsy (alias) Elizabeth, Keith sued Richard McBride, Thomas Green and John Tweedy, on - a writ of replevin, for one sorrel mare, one woman's saddle, one bed, one blanket, six blue edge plates, six knives and forks, one coffee pot and Delph dish, valued at a $130.00. She obtained a judgment of $200.00 then William Miller appeared as an attorney in the case and had the judgment set aside, because fifteen days had not elapsed between the time of serving the writ and the convening of the court. Peter Stalcup complains of Henry and John Earthman in a plea of covenant broken. Absalom Stalcup is defendant in a case of trespass. A case of selling whiskey without license, in less quantities that a quart, was brought by the people against Sarah Bunts, probably the first case of this kind in the county against a woman. James Markham was indicted for assault and batteiy on the complaint of Jesse Terry, Sr. The jurymen in this case not mentioned before were Joseph Fisher, Gilbert Noble, Joab Ratcliff, and Robert Miller. "Sarah Medlock vs. John Mackey, tresspass." In a case of a note given by Isaac D. Wilcox to Moses Rhodes, 1811 and attested by Jesse Beak. Some of the juriors were Amos Howard, Samuel Wooday, George Matheny and R. H. Loyd. The next suit was about an order which read as follows: "Sir: Please pay to the bearer, Hugh Logan 430 pounds of saltpeter, and oblige and soforth - Joseph French to Henry Skinner. Test. T. F. Clark." The following has been referred to in the county court records, Hoseah Borin sued John Bradshaw to recover one negro woman, a slave, and one negro man and child, and a slave, Abram of the price and value of $600.00. It appears from the records these slaves had belonged to Basil Borin who died in 1812, and Hoesah Borin, the administrator claimed that Bradshaw, was detaining them fraudulently. William McDaniel, David Cotner, George James and John Carter are new names on the jury in this case, and Bradshaw was exonerated. ' Susannah Borin brings suit against Issac D. Wilcox, covenant broken. On examination Wilcox admits he received three negroes for which he was to pay $300.00. The new names on this jury were Richard Messer, and Ebenzer Killough. Through some turn by the attorney, Susannah lost the case and had to pay the cost. The Borins were rather unfortunate with their slaves.

Another case was Elisha Spivy and Elizabeth Elkins vs. John Elkins. This was copied from book No. 1 of the circuit court records for the years 1813-14. J. Finney was the clerk and the writing is very legible, although written one hundred and ten years ago. The following is copied from record No. 3, and begins with the May court, 1818. The names of the grand jurors are given first, James Bain, foreman, John Copeland, David Shearer, Joel Johnson, Bennett Hancock, Millington Smith, D. Simpson, Squire Choate, Davids Elms, Hardy Johnson, John W. Gore, John Bridges, James Sutten, Richard McGinnis, William McNorton, Wm. McFatridge, J. S. Graves, John Peterson, Adam Harvick, William Gothard, and Alexander McGoawn. The following are some of the cases, and jurors, but only those that have new names connected with them are used. Ezekiel Able vs. William Boner, on the jury were William Porter, John Jennett, Jesse Echols. Contestants, King Hazel vs. Luke Williams; Joshua Whittington vs. Andrew Kidd ; Mathew Peck vs. Thomas Furguson ; James B. Mc- Call vs. Furguson; Nathaniel Pope vs. J. A. Whiteside; John Parmer vs. Linkhorn Harper ; James Letcher vs. Hugh Craig; Susannah Price and Joseph Palmer vs. James Worth ington and Levi Hughes, T. S. Slaughter vs. Elija Bryant; Wm. Morrison vs. W. Hukam, Joseph Taylor vs.

Daniel Ritter. Some new names on the petit jury were Jeremiah Lysemby, Benjamin Curley. Patsy Fisher and Owen Evans vs. R. Heacock; Mary Weaver, John Thornton and Hezekiah West vs. I. D. Wilcox. On the grandjury of October, 1819, the name of Rix Carter, John Grissum, Thomas Doyle, James Jones and Aaron B. Brown. The Hon. William Wilson held the November term in 1819. Some new jury names were Milton Ladd, John Grisham, John Oliver, and Henry Mangum. The first courts for 1820, there are few changes in the names of jurors and some of the parties bringing suit were Francis Geehan, William Hendry, Thomas Dial, Henry Osborn, Joseph McCorcle and Robert Little. Wilson, Marshall & Co., John P. Hogan and W. H. Ashley all had suits against I. D. Wilcox in this court, also Thomas Sloo, Jr. Wilcox had more lawsuits than any other one person in these courts, and S. J. Chapman, Sr. is possibly second. The court of 1822 shows T. C. Brown as judge. Two new names as grand jurors, Thomas Duns worth, and James Sitter. (At close of this court, John Oliver is allowed four dollars for four days attendance at the last court as sheriff, and James Finney is allowed $30.00, his annual salary as clerk of this court, and $12.00 extra expenses.) The only new names as jurors at the April term for 1823, were Levi Casey and Reuben Wright. Some of those having cases were Daniel Field, Spencer Grogan, Lewis Vemont, John Elkins, Pennington Moss, Isaac Ralston, and Polly Sutten. September court, jurors not named before A Rice and Elias Harrell. Robert Lott, J. E. Willis, James White, James Brown, Richard Cox, Wheeler Bevins, Joshua Elkins and Sally Cooper were defendants. Irvin Morris and Lucius F. Gibbs were new plaintiffs. At the May term 1822, the Hon. Samuel Mc- Roberts was the judge. New names as jurors were John Henderson, W. B. Smith, Ira Hitchcock, and Mark Rentfro. The only new names appearing in cases were Samuel Volner, Able Larrison and the officers of the State Bank of Illinois. The Hon. Richard M. Young, was presiding judge at the October term, 1825. One new name as juror Abraham Jobe. The names of William Slack, Robert Axley and Henry W. Mound appear as petit jurors. D. J. Baker was the circuit attorney. James Brown, James Westbrooks, Joseph Huddlestone, Abraham Baker are the only new parties in law suits. The same officers have charge of May term for 1826. No new names as jurors. "On the 27th clay of May, 1826 personally appeared before me David McNeely, a resident of Johnson County, aged about 72 years saying he enlisted for the term of three years on the 12th day of April, 1777, in the state of Virginia, in the company commanded by Capt. Adam Wallace, in the 7th regiment, commanded by Col. Heath, in the line of the state of Virginia, that he continued in said corps till some time in 1779, when he was discharged from service in the state of North Carolina. He stated that his name was not on any state roll, that he had not applied for a pension before because his circumstances, although not affluent, had been easy, but by misfortune and sickness, he had been reduced to the necessity of asking a support from his country. He swore he was a resident of the United States on the 18th day of March, 1818. He stated- he had not given away his property in order that he may get a pension. His property consisted of one suit of wearing apparel, valued at $3.87 Yi Richard M. Young ordered the clerk that it be certified that it appeared to the satisfaction of the court that the said David McNeeley did serve in the Revolutionary War." This is not the full text but the main points in it. There seems to be quite a contrast in the way men look upon taking money from the government now and one hundred years ago. On the same day J. D. Simpkins, a resident of Johnson County appeared before the court saying he had enlisted for the term of three years on the 13th day of October, 1777, in the state of New York, in the company commanded by Captain John Randolph, of Col. Henry Lee's Light Horse, commonly called the Legion, in the line of the state of Virginia, in the Continental Establishment, that he continued to serve in said troop until the 14th day of 1781, when he was discharged from service. He gives his reasons for applying for a pension and subscribes to some other forms required. Then follows a schedule of his possessions : four cows and calves, valued at $20.00 ; two steers, valued at $16.00; one lot of hogs, valued at $20.00; house hold furniture at the value of $30.00 ; crop of corn and provision on hand, $30.00. This is also sworn to before Richard M. Young, Judge, and the court certifies that he is satisfied that John G. Simpkins, did serve in the Revolutionary War, and ordered that the clerk so certify. On May 27, 1826, Samuel Gardner, a resident of Johnson County, applied for a certificate for a pension from the court. He also enlisted in New York in 1777, in the company com- manded by Marisus (if deciphered correct) Willis, Lieut. Col. of the regiment commanded by Col. Gansofort in the line of the state of New York, and was discharged the 4th day of June, 1784, in the state of New York. He has not applied heretofore because he was able to support himself by his labors. Old age and sickness reduced him to the necessity of asking his country's aid. Then follows the usual form and schedule of his property, one rifle gun, valued at $10.00; one hoe valued at 50c, one ax valued at 75c. The judge ordered the clerk to certify that he was satisfied that Samuel Gardner did serve in the Revolutionary War. From these records it appears that we had other Revolutionary soldiers than those whose graves have been marked by the D A. R. At the October term, 1826, there are two names on the jury list we have not had before. Martin Howell, and James McKee. Sidney Breese was the circuit attorney, having failed to attend D. J. Baker was appointed in his stead. John Shearer was constable. Jesse Fain was excused from jury duty. James and Polly Sittow were divorced at this court by a jury, and Polly was prohibited from marrying again for two years. Athony Ensor was a defendant in this court.

At the April term, 1828, William J. Gatewood was District Attorney. The new jury names were William Parker and Solomon Stephens. The new parties to lawsuits were William Allard and J. C Willard. At the October term of this court one new name as juror, John Sims. The name of Amos Lacey appears connected with a lawsuit. At the May court, 1828, Jacob Keisler and Robert Kerley are new names as jurors. Pleasant L. Ward, Phillip Corbitt and Elias K. Cotton are the new contestants in lawsuits. At the April term, 1836 the name of William Mount appears for the first time as a juror. Richard Elkins and Francis Kincannon were excused from duty. In this court there appears a record as follows. "This day appeared in open court, Washington Thompson, a man of color, and presented a certificate of Bennett Jones, Sheriff, of Johnston County, certifying that he, the said Washington, had been aprehended as a runaway slave or servant and committed to the jail of said county by Ivy Reynolds an acting justice of the peace, in and for said county and that he had been dealt with according to law, and hired out from month to month for the space of twelve months, ending the

26th day of December last, 1835, and that no owner had appeared in the said time, to claim the said Washington Thompson. It was ordered that the facts be and are hereby certified and made public, and it is hereby ordered that said Washington Thompson shall be deemed a free person unless he shall be, lawfully claimed by his proper owner or owners/' Elias Holmes, W. C. White, J. N Modglin, and David Harper were new jurors. William McGee was a defendant in a suit brought from Pope County. Some other names connected with this court were Allen Pruett, John Jackson. Record 1, page 30, December 1, 1811, David MacElmunny, debtor to John Greething. April term, 1813. Joseph Conway, Dept. Atty. General, a suit was brought by John Prichard, assignee of Hugh Logan vs. Henry Skinner, Isaac D. Wilcox was security for the cost. Accompaning the declaration was an order to-wit. "Sir please pay the bearer Hugh Logan, four hundred and thirty-two pounds of saltpeter, and oblige and soforth, Joseph French to Henry Skinner, Test. Thomas F. Clark, July 12, 1811." On the back of this order was the following to-wit. "I do assign over the within order to John Prichard in security of thirty dollars to be paid on or before the first day of June next, April 14, 1812, Hugh Logan. The within order is accepted by me, Henry Skinner, July 12, 1812, Test. Joseph Shaw. This note shows another legal tender to be saltpeter.

November term, 1814, William Daniel vs. Daniel Vincent, trespass, John Spann and Charles Murphy were security for the cost. July term, of court 1814, held at the house of John Bradshaw in the town of Elvira, Johnson County, Illinois. One case was Henry Buckentaff vs. William Simpson growing out of the following, to-wit : "On or before the first day of August next I promise to pay Henry Buckentaff two hundred and thirteen and a half bushels of good dry salt, delivered in good barrels at Shawneetown, it being for value received. As witness my hand this 6th day of February, 1811, William Simpson, Test. Daniel Head." Then follows the indorsements "I assign the within note to Nathan Hern, without recourse, July 12, 1813, Henry Buckentaff, Test. William Daniels." Asignment two "I assign my right of the within note to John Venton without recourse, July 12, 1813, Nathan Hearn Test William Daniels." Third assignment, "I assign my right of the within note to John Stilty without recourse,

September 21, 1813, John S. Venton." Since this note had done duty in so many hands perhaps it would be of interest to know that Simpson paid Buckentaff $174.00 and the cost of the suit, apparently salt was also legal tender.

At the November term, 1814, John King and Williams Styles are required to answer to a charge ^ of treaspass at the complaint of Elisha Spivy who lost his horses and these men found them. He accuses them of selling his horses and knowing they were his. The jury that was called had John Teddford, S. Snyder, Jacob Hunsaker and John Woodland, whose names have not been copied on jury service before. The jury allowed Spivy $50.00 damages when he had sued for $1,000. The next is the cape of John Sharp and Joshua Talbot, administrators of Frederit k Crice. They brought suit against Catherin Crice. It wr>s a plea of debt for $370,961/2 and damages $150.00. Samuel Penroa was her bondsman, Russell E. Heacock, attorney for Sharp and Talbot entered a complaint stating that the said plaintiffs had obtained a judgment against the said Catherine Crice in Butler County Court, Kentucky for the sum of $360 at a court held before the judge of said county, August, 1813, by their Atty. John Brethell, which had never been satisfied. The debt was originally $700. She had promised frequently to pay Frederick Crice which she failed to do. After his death she still promised to pay his administrators, but failing they brought suit for $700. In the November term, 1814, Catherine Crice appeared at Morgantown, Butler County, and says "the action ought not to be as the estate owes her $400 for clothing, washing and lodging the infant children of the deceased." At a later court held in June. 1815 her attorney, Delaney, filed a claim as having paid the debt. This case was brought before a jury in Johnson County, Illinois, October, 1815. The debt was allowed and damages was $45.00. A writ was issued against Catherine Crice's property. The writ was returned, no property found, 'I. Morris, Dept for T. Furguson.' Catherine Crice was ordered put in jail September 15, at the instance of John Sharp and Frederick Talbot as administrators of the estate of Frederice Crice.

The following year Catherine Crice took advantage of the law of this state for debtors as referred to in "Customs" Daniel Groves, at this court brought suit against John Borin, and Thomas Littlepage for a judgment he had ob- tained in the Livingston County Court, Kentucky. Christphor Thompkins was his attorney. In 1807 a writ is issued against Thomas and Benjamin Littlepage in Livingston County Court, held at Russelville, Kentucky. Armstead Morehead, clerk, Wiley J. Earner, Sheriff, 1808.

These cases came to our court for the reason that many of our settlers came from that state. William Eastin and Johnathan Magnus appear as contestants in the next case. A writ issued against Eastin from the state of Tennessee, requiring him to appear at a court held in Nashville, 1812. The administrators of Joseph Eubank's estate sued James Tolly and Charles Perry for debt. At a court in 1815 we first have the names of John Damron, John Witt is the complainant in this case, which is called "oraton." It appears the suit originated through a bill of sale of property that John Witt had made over to Nellie Witt, his wife, and six infant children. The case was continued at the October term, but the odd feature about it is, the number of the Perry family that are summoned to court. Wm. Perry, Sr., and Jr., John, Enoch, Hiram and Solomon Perry with John and George Damron. There is a case in the June term, 1816, over a note given by Isaac Wilcox in 1810 to John Stead. James D. Johnson bought the note, then Russel E. Heacock bought it, and William Osborn was security for the cost, James S. Dorris signed the writ as sheriff of Johnson County. James Malcom brought a suit in the November term, 1816, trespass against Jesse Terry. The Jury was D. T. Coleman, Foreman, John Elkins, John Spann, John Tedforcl, Solomon Snyder, James Abernathy, John Wood, Jeremiah Murry, Thomas Prichard, Jacob Hunsaker and William Penny. In October, 1817 Squire Allen sued Jesse Parker for debt. At the May term of court, 1818, David Usher brought suit against several men whose names have already been mentioned for assault and battery. Thomas C. Brown held the November court, 1819, Samuel Langdon, assignee of James Frazer, suit vs. Wilcox. This record extends from October, 1814, to May, 1818, but the names occuring in the different cases are all familiar.

There is and old execution docket in the circuit clerks office giving all the cases from January 1, 1818-28. On the inside cover of one of these old records is a note perhaps a joke, as there was no date, "On demand I promise to John Mclntyre, five good negro boys and farm S. C." Another entry that seems to have no connection with this county is, Augustine G. S. Wright, sub-agent lor the Fever River Lead Mines, Dodgeville, Joe Davis County, Illinois. Then follows the names, Gen. H. Dodge, and Col A. G. S. Wright. On this docket, November term 1820, it is recorded that James Finney had been indicted for A. S. B. not being familiar with legal abreviations, on investigation, it was found to mean, assault and battery. Finney being an officer of the court, this was quite unexpected. He plead guilty and was fined twelve and one half cents.

The grand jurymen for the October court, 1829, were Joseph Kuykendall, Foreman, John Bain, E. W. Campbell, Alvin Cross, Allen Choate, Isham DePoister, William Elkins Frederick Graves, Abraham McGowan, James Miles, George Lile, John Standard, William Taylor, Thomas Gore, Marshall Hale, and Josiah Raign. The first case is against Daniel Chapman, the next Archibald Goodman, Elias K. Cotton, John P. Finney, Jesse Canady. At the April term,

1830, the names on this jury not mentioned before were John Axley, James Boswell, Hardy Cooper, Molton Carter, Harris Hart and John Goddard, T. C. Brown was the Judge and H. J. Eddy the attorney. Jesse Williams, Samuel Oxford, Jacob Kiester, and Henry McHenry were the defendants in this court. The. grand jury returned with two indictments. The unfamiliar names at the October term of court, 1830 were, jurymen Abraham Niel, Louis Pankey. Thomas Moore, Nathaniel Buckmaster, Rebeca Caswe were defendants in cases of this court. At the April term,

1831, the new jurymen were James Gershon, B. S. Enloe, and David Harper. Fannie Holmes, Lot W. Hancock and William Lewis and some others who have been mentioned had cases in this court. April term, 1832, William Richards, Moses Shelby, are the unfair names of jurymen. Mathew Blackwell, Peter May and Phillip Hargrave had cases in this court. At the April term, 1833, Stephen and Mark Rentfro, James Emerson, and Jeptha Wise are unfamiliar Jurymen. John DeWit, Robert Fortenberry, Henry Tolson, Robert and John Diterline. P. W. Harrington, William Mathine, Ward and Ensminger, Jacob Grammer, Charlton Fairless, John L. Coper, Timothy Hayes. William Peterson, Warren Grisham, Solomon Gibson, John Betts, Sally Temple, Nancy Dyke, Jacob Sammon, were either plaintiffs or defendants at this court. Also the fol- lowing record: 'This day William Wiggs, a soldier of the Revolution, by James Evans, his attorney came into court and presented his declaration and affidavit with certificate and affidavits of Hezekiah West, James Jones, Sr., Clergyman, and John Sims, certifying of their knowledge regarding his service and veracity and truth in order to entiile him to the benefit of the act of Congress of June 7, 1832, which is ordered to be certified, with county seal annexed." His pension was allowed. The next court was November, 1833, G. W. Youngblood is the only grand juryman not mentioned before." Harry, a colored man, this day came into court. The said Harry, by hi? attorneys, Dougherty and Dunn, and moved the court to restrain Owen Evans, his supposed master, from removing him without the jurisdiction of the court, "which motion is continued." "This day A. P. Field, Esq. came into court and moved the court for a rule upon the sheriff of Johnson County to show cause why he does not return to Owen Evans the property attached (a certain negro man) which had been attached as the property of the said Evans, in which attachment special bail had been filled which motion was continued." This shows how late slavery was permitted in this county and what liberties the owners took with their slaves.

William Rinehard, John Collier, Jacob Wolfe, John T. Griffin, John Beattie, Sarah Craig, John Denison, were other names appearing at this court. The jurymen whoses names have not appeared before, for the Springterm of 1834, were Ishmeai Veach, James Lasley, James McKee, Gabriel B. Sidwell and Isaac C. Kidd. The new contestants in suits were Samuel Grace, Jesse Grigsby, Jesse Pratt, Lucindy Webber, Elizabeth Davis and Thomas Hart. For the November term of this year the only jurymen not mentioned before was James Hitchcock. Dr. B. W. Brooks was the only new white client. William Boniface and John Bannister, were colored men, who had been taken up as runaway slaves and served their term out as the law required, presented their certificates and were declared free. The case of Harry, a man of color vs. Owen Evans was continued. For the April term of 1835, the new grand jurymen were Thomas Pitt, Benton Modglin and James Holt. Joseph Young is recognized as an attorney at this court. Henry Williams, Elias Holmes, Casper Weaver and William Munsun had cases in this court. Owen Evans was acquitted in the case of Harry, the man of color. David Elms, John O'Linear, Beverly B. Parker, Jesse Pratt, A. M. Hicklin, Thomas Hall, Christopher Kelly, D. J. Tucker, Allen Pruet, Martin W. Dorris, and Pleasant Meadows were other people interested in this court. Heretofore Thomas C. Brown has held all the courts from 1829 to 1835. At October court, 1835, the Hon. Justin Harlin, is the Judge, Samuel Copeland is the clerk, and Benett Jones the sheriff. All the names of the grand jurors are familiar. The District Atorney was John Dougherty, of Jonesboro, Illinois. William Howard, Reuben Wilson and Abraham Baker are new contestants in this court, also Joseph Williams a man of color, who presented his certificate from Ivy Reynolds, Coroner of the county, as having been dealt with as the law required of a runaway slave, and obtained his freedom. One other case pretaining to the heirs of Nathaniel Sidwell. The early courts opened at 8 A. M.

At the May court, 1841, Judge Walter B. Scates was in charge. William McNickol, N. P. Cardwell and Samuel Short served on the Petit Jury. At the November term, same year, William Bullock, Levi Rice, John Carmichael and Zachariah McKee are new grand jurymen. The term of court held May, 1842 was under Judge Scates, with W. J. Allen as District Attorney. This is getting down to such a late date as to make the records modern. The county records are very complete from 1840.

Miscellaneous Court Notes

At a court held in 1827 Jacob Harvick was fined fifty cents for assault and battery. "Ordered that John Oliver be paid $2.50 for attending on the court two days and furnishing wood, "November term, 1820. " At the May term 1825, the case of the People vs. William Russell, indictment for giving a challenge to fight a duel. The people were represented by Sidney Breeze and Russell was found guilty. Fee bills for a suit brought by Reynolds and Gray vs. W. B. Ward, June 1840, justice docket, I2V2C, summons 18:>> |.c, judgment 25c, execution 25c, renewing execution 25c, miles six at five cents, 30c serving summons 25c, total cost of suit, $2.11%.

lent William Peterson, $2.121/<>. Some cases recorded .March term, 1814 Richard McBride vs. Elizabeth Keith, Arthur Love vs. Joshla and John Graves, 1815; Johnathan Clark vs. E. Russell and wife, 1825, State Bank of Illinois vs. Randolph Casey and Joshua Elkins, 1825, Daniel Chap man vs. Jesse Canady, 1823; Washington McFatridge vs. John Bain 1827 ; the people vs. Pleasant Ward, 1814, William Easton vs. John A. Magnus, Stephen Kuykendall, late of Center Township, had a case in court, 1815, Chas. Meek vs. Adam Harvick and Jesse Allen, 1815, King Hazel vs. Luke Williams, 1816, Elisha Reynolds and Thomas Little page vs. Hannah Borin, 1816, Peggy Taylor vs. Robert H. Loyd, Patsy Fisher and Owen Evans, administrators vs. John Hays, Martha McCall vs. Levi Graham, 1817, Susannah Latham vs. Alexander Beggs, 1820, Susannah Price and Joseph Palmer setled with the court 1820 as administrators of the estate of Abram Price. Thomas C. Paterson was allowed $10.00 for Prosecuting Attorney for the past year at June court, 1816. Milton Ladd was ordered to lay off, under the direction of George Brazil, one half of the whole length of section 10, township 15, range 3 east, June 1826. In 1823 James Copeland as sheriff was ordered by the court to purchase one half bushel, one gallon, one quart, and one half pint measures to be of the gage provided by an act of the General Assembly of the State. David J. Baker was allowed $30.00 in specie or $60.00 in state paper, for his services as prosecuting attorney in 1825. December term, 1825, Richard Elkins was made guardian for Ezekiel, Robinson and filed bond to give him a year's schooling and when twenty-one to give him a horse worth $50.00 or other property worth that much and one good suit of clothes, of domestic manufacture, 1825. Jasper and Elizabeth Mount had children, Thomas M., Nancy J., and Mathias. These children chose their mother as guardian, September, 1820, as their father had died. One of the first divorce cases is found in May court, 1818, Elizabeth vs. John Elkins.

George Smiley makes application for a permit to keep tavern, March 12, 1814, Dishon, Givins & Co., Thursday entered with me for a license to vend merchandise, J. Finney, January 29, 1814. Weir & Craig had a lawsuit against Samuel Simpson in a court held in 1813, David Elms was made guardian for the children of William Fisher, Levi and Williams, 1818. April 1828, the following order from the court, "that a tax of one-half percent be levied on the following kinds of property, to-wit, on town lots, slaves, requistion and indentured negroes or mulatto servants, pleasure carriages, distillers, stock-in-trade, horses, mares, mule^ asses, neat cattle above three years of age, and on water mills with their appendages,

Grand jurors 1808, William Alexander, John Worley, James Henderson and William McLaughlin, Jacob Solomans Christphor Lore, John Henderson and Nathaniel Sidwell. Walter B. Scates presided at the Spring term, 1837. Jacob C. Kidd, Thomas Pitt and Amos V. Lasley were new jurymen. New men in court were Nathaniel Mullinax, Elisha Cowgill, James Teagnor, J. M. Webster. Jane Hill, Administratrix of Curtis Hill. Sam Harrison, a man of color, was declared free by the court under the same law that Washington Thompson had been freed the year before. There were several indictments against persons for keeping a tippling house open on the Sabbath day, another was fined for playing at dice on the Sabbath at this period it would be called "shooting craps." Joseph Strahl, Solomon Grace, James Emerson, Abel Ford, Peter Yokum, John Shinall, Francis Marberry, were new names appearing on the 1837 court records. In 1838, we have the same judge and officers. The defendants were Watts and Franklin, W. B. Donaghy, John Mclntire, Wiley Wise, Wiley Simmons, Nathan Richardson, William Hooker. At the April term, 1839, Abram, Nathan and Reuben, men of color, were indicted for some misdemeanor. John Copeland went on their bail. He was the owner of at least one of them, perhaps all. The indictment was quashed and they were discharged. There is also a case of slander, Thomas Johnson and wife vs. Cornelius Vanderbilt and wife, tradition says, this Vanderbilt family, who had a beautiful home and farm on the Ohio River opposite the Grand Chain, was a member of the famous Vanderbilt family of New York. In the November term of court of this year, Levi a man of color, appeared before the court and claimed freedom under the law, which was granted. The 1840 court shows some names not seen before, J. W. Corbin, Peter 0,Neal, Peter McMahan, J. A. Rhodes, Powell Towler, and J. W. McKee. Jndofe Sidney Breeze held the November term of court, 1840 with W. H. Stickney, District Attorney. Levi Gifford, J. B. Spotts, Henry Freeman, J. K. Cheek, are connected with this court. John Fisher presented his bond of $10,000 as sheriff, with C. C. Latham, William Fisher, Burrell Anderson, Berry Sexton and W. H. Graves as bondsman.

Copied from the fee book of J. Finney Circuit Clerk, John Bowman Dr., to James Finny Cash: 1814 the amount of my fee in the case, $13.00; 1815, Capt. Daniel T. Coleman Dr., to same cash lent, $5.00; 1817, July, lent Martin Harvick, $5.00; October, 1817 William Garner cash lent, $3.80, paid. Record and copy of deed, $2.50. 1817; Stephen Smith Dr., to James Finny M. $1.00, 3 letter postage 68V2C paid. Hoseah Borin Dr., to two certificates and seals at 75 cents $1.50 postage on two letters 25c each. 50 certificates and seal 75c. Postage on letters 121/2C, 87V2C, Benj. F. Conner Certificate 75c postage 37i/2c, $1.12V2, October, 1817, Lieutent William Townsend ten dollars. To postage 28, $10.28, December, 1819, lent George Smily 50c. John Smith letters 50c, Peter Slark Dr., for postage 37V&C, Robert Hargrave Certificate 75c, John F. Smith, balance on letters of Administration, paid $2.50, October, 1819, John S. Graves to cash, one time $4.00, at another $3.00, to postage on letter, 25c, $7.25 ; Milton Ladd postage on two letters 50c, John Elkins Dr. To James Finny clerk, for making copv of record by order of his attorney, William Russell, 1991 words at 12i/2c for every 72 - $3.40% Dr. Jacob Roberson, by order of his attorney William Russell Dr. To James Finny Clerk, for copy declaration 300 wrords 51V2C, James Brown Dr. for postage 1 at 25c and 1 at 18 V2, John Bridges 1 at 25c, Simon Price 1 at 25c, Rice Sams 1 at 18%, Hosean Borin 2 letters 50c. January 7, 1817, Robert Hays Dr. To James Finny Clerk, for making complete record in the case of Patsy Fisher and Owen Evans vs. John Hays, appraiser, $4.80. James Silton 35c, 1818, July; William Lawrence, for two copies of deed 871/;>c. Record 1818. David Elms, for certificate and seal 75c, 1819, May 26, John Elkins Dr. To James Finny Clerk To copy, of an indictment 68c; July Isaac, D. Wilcox Dr. for 8 certificates and seals at 75c $6.00, "Squire Choat" tavern license, $5.00 paid.

Early Marriage Dates

Nancy Higgins, 1831 ; in 1835 licenses were issued to James T. Collier and Parmelia Chapman; Thomas Mercer and Minerva Allen; John Cooper and Betsy Harrell; James H. Cooper, and Jane Elliot, John Allen and Mary Sarah Mercer, Gilbert H. Padget and Amanda Chapman; John Jones and Esther Carter, 1839; Washington Chapman and Cynthia Jobe, 1835; John S. Copeland and Ann Ward, 1835; Joshua S. Copeland and Elizabeth Axley, 1835; Issac S. Copeland and Eleanor Gore, 1835; Alfred Copeland and Agnes Phillips, 1841; James Mabrey and (Mrs) Elizabeth Copeland, 1841 ; Alfred Copeland and Katherine Elkins, 1844; John A. Copeland and Cynthia A. Scroggins, 1857; John West and Nancy Ann Allen, 1859. James A. Mecalf married a daughter of N. 0. Gray. The Metcalfs resided in that section of the county that made Pulaski.

Judging from court records Bennett Handcock married Mary Peterson, widow of Wm. Peterson, who had the infant children, Elizabeth, Joshua and Sally, and whose will was written, 1815.

Johnson County Territory was included in St. Clair, at its organization in 1790. Thomas Bradley was the first sheriff, William St. Clair is given as sheriff the same year. William Biggs was appointed coroner in 1790. Randolph County was formed in 1795, George Fisher, sheriff, 1801 and James Edgar, 1805. Robert Moris and James Edgar served as clerks of Randolph County between the years 1806 to 1808. Pierre Menard, George Fisher and James Finney were appointed Judges of the court of common pleas for Randolph County, 1806. E. Entsminger was deputy sheriff in 1809. John Bradshaw and John Phelps were appointed Justices of Peace in 1809. James Galbreth. sheriff 1809. Marvin Fuller, Nathan Davis, and J. B. Murry were appointed J. P. for Randolph County in 1810. (This was copied from Randolph County records.)

The County of Johnson was organized September 14, 1812, and the following officers were appointed by the Governor: Thomas C. Patterson, sheriff; Thomas Furguson, Nathaniel Green, Judges of the court of common pleas and

James Finney, clerk. Jessie Griggs, who lived in the Murphy sboro neighborhood, was appointed a Justice for this county, 1812. I. Weaver, who lived in Center Township, Thomas Griffith and John Byers, who lived in the section that made Jackson County in 1816, were appointed Justices of the Peace in 1812. Henson Day and Thomas Green were appointed J. P. in 1813, and John Palmer, coroner. Archibald McAllister, coroner, 1814, George Hacker, Jessie Echols and George Hunsaker were J. P. in 1814 and in the same year James Finny was appointed clerk of the Supreme Court ; Gilbert Marshall was appointed surveyor. John Earthman was coroner in 1815. William M. Lammison, Joshua Davis, Vance Lusk, William Smith, James Bain, John Bowman and Thomas Lawrence were appointed J. P. in 1815. Wrilliam Mears was appointed District Attorney in 1813 and Thomas C. Brown to the same office in 1814. John Weldon was appointed J. P. in

James Weaver, Benjamin Maneer, Hosea Borin, William Stiles, Irvin Morris, and Andrew Cochran were appointed Justices for the County in 1816. Vance Lusk and James Whiteside, T. Lammison and James Fox lived in that section of Johnson that later became Pope County. In

1817, the Governor appointed John Copeland, James Crunk, David Elms, John Whittiker, George Brown, Joseph Palmer Justices. John Hargraves, who lived in Union in 1818, surveyor.

the list is correct. H. 0. Cavitt, J. L. Thornton, J. C. Carter, H. W. Emerson, William Nobles, J. W. Rushing, N. J. Mozley, J. C. Chapman, J. Wormack and Thomas Ballance.

County Superintendents of Schools. The first superintendent coming under the 1855 law, was William Culver, J. S. Whittenberg, R. M. Fisher, Thomas G. Farris, P. T. Chapman, W. Y. Smith, M. T. Van Cleve, Sara J. White, berg, W. M. Grissom, Emma Rebman, E. W. Sutton, F. E. Worrell.

County Surveyor: Gilbert Marshall, 1815; Milton Ladd 1820; L. W. Fern, 1855; H. M. Ridenhower, 1865; Joshua J. Scott, Charles W. McCoy, 1871; W. B. Lewis, WT. C. Watson, 1907; Clint Hunt, 1916. Charles Hook was the first county supervisor of roads, 1914; John Sharp and Almus Ragsdale. The latter is filling the position at present, 1924, John Sharp, surveyor, 1924.

There are nine townships in Johnson County, namely Goreville, Elvira, Cache, Tunnel Hill, Bloomfield, Vienna, Burnside, Simpson and Grantsburg.

Goreville is in the north west corner of the county and was settled by the Gores, Adams, Barnards, Carrol Craigs, Dunns, Kelleys, Newtons, Walkers, Stanleys, Ridenhowers and Parrishes. Madison Parrish was a Justice of the Peace for many years and served as an associate of the county. G. P. and West Sullivan were settlers of this township before the Civil War. They were educated men and G. P. did what one would call a country lawyer's business, such as writing wills, filling out papers and justice work. His children were Marcellus, (called Bud) Lycurgus, Rhoda and Mathilda. West was a teacher, and had one daughter who married a Mr. Russell. The Sullivans were from the South and Democrats in politics and Goreville Township is still the stronghold of that party in our county. A few of the farmers living there at present are: J. M. Francis, A. M. Smith, W. P. Gore, J. A. Carlton, J. N. Maze, M. M. Pickles, D. A. Stone, John A. Vancil, Charles Patrick, J. H. Hudgens, Benjamin Johnson and T. C. Crawford. Goreville is the principal town.

Elvira lies south of Goreville and borders Union County on the west. The first settlers here were Worleys, Littletons, Elkins, Stokes, Graves, Barnetts, Morrises, Mangums and a little later the Pearces, Ragsdales, Suits and Browns. Among the farmers of this section today are : J. K. Elkins,. J. B. Suit, Dr. Charles Nobles, Dr. W. P. Robertson, J. C. Grinnell, John W. Gocldard, F. M. Hunsaker, George Johnson, Melvin Jones, Claude Beggs, E. L. Ragsdale, Ad and Sherman Smith, George M. Mozley, L. F. Poor and Charles

Cache joins Elvira on the south and its southern boundary is formed by Cache river. It was settled almost as early as Elvira by the West. Carter, Mercer, Peterson, Axley, Gore and Bridges families some of whom were as early as 1810. The Peeler, Martin, Casper, Wilhelm families came about the fifties. Cypress and Belknap are the main towns of this division and a few of the good farmers are L. A. Mulkey, J. C. Carter, J. L. Beanard, W. J. Jones, Frank Capron, L. S. Beggs, P. T. Chapman, J. M. Brown, D. C. Casper, W. 0. Peeler, Frank Penrod, Lee Moak, Charles Marshall and Mrs. Sabine Mason.

Tunnel Hill is on the northern border of the county and just east of Goreville. It has Tunnel Hill for its main village, and its first settlers were Choats, Goddards, Hobbs, Whiteheads, Kuykendalls, Cavitts, Bradleys, McMahans and Mitchell Webb who was the founder of a large family. Andrew Kelley, a man held in high esteem by his neighbors, Joseph was the head of the Smith family. His children were William, Joseph, Isaac, Richard, Mathilda and Hiram. Most of these families with the Vinsons and Simmons are members of the church of the Latter Day Saints. When this church was broken up at Nauvoo, Illinois, these families located in this township. They have intermarried so that their descendants are most all related. Other families settling here about the fifties, were John Ridenhower, Felix Boyt, Burkalows, Carsons and the D. C. Chapmans. Some of the present residents are G. H. McMahan, Guy Beauman, A. G. Benson, J. B. Cavitt, the family of the late A. N. Webb, Isiah Lowery, J. L. Mohler, and David Cover, Jr. The Centralia Fruit and Orchard Co., is located in this township.

Bloomfield lies almost in the center of the county and was a part of Cache Township when it was organized. It was settled by the Caseys, Harvicks, McFatridges, Thackers, Bains, Daniel Chapman, Sr., Taylors, Finneys, Odoms and Petersons. Bloomfield is the name of the largest town. Farmers living there now are J. S. Plater, J. N. Benson, I. N. Davies, John Taylor, 0. W. Ruppert, George W. Mathis, T. F. Travis, L. J. Smith, J. M. Brown, and the Shetlers.

Jones, Samuel Chapman, James and J. L. Hogg, Jackson Simpson, David Shearer and Thos. Johnson were the first residents. A few years later came the families of Dr. Damron, A. J. Kuykendall, Redden, Henry, Burnett, John Bain, Farris, Donaghy and Hight. Vienna is the seat of justice and the principal town of the county. It is situated in the northwest part, in section 5. West Vienna and Foreman are other villages in the township. Some of the progressive farmers are J. C. Johns, L. T. Farris, J. L. Lindsey, John Dunn, D. W. Mathis, Milo Clanahan, J. W. Shinn, A. Hook, R. R. Ridenhower, J. M. Farris, T. J. Cowan, Jr. H. L. Bridges, J. C. Chapman and A. E. McKenzie.

Burnside is located in the north east corner of the county. The Harper, Choate, Lawrence, Howerton, Damion, Gill, Whiteaker, Burton, Ballance families were a few of the early settlers of this township. It is known as the fruit growing section and some of the residents and farmers are J. C. B. and J. W. Heaton, F. B. Hinds, Norman W. Casper, J. W. Choat, G. W. Murphy, J. W. Rushing, J. M. Safford, and J. R. Chester. New Burnside and Ozark are the villages of this township.

Simpson is south of New Burnside and borders Pope County on the east, it had its first settler in 1805, William Simpson, from whom it took its name. Other early settlers were McKees, Veaches, Barnwells, Whitesides, Kerley, Keltners, Scotts, Simmons, Murrays and Mounts. Simpson is a thriving villiage of this section. Some of the farmers and fruit growers are : T. B. Murray, T. B. Mount, J. W. Reynolds, T. B. Kerley, W. H. Grissom, J. H. Taylor, C. W. and Otto Murrie and J. L. Thomas.

Grantsburg corners with Massac and Pope Counties on the south east. Some of the first settlers here were: Walkers, Pors, Cummins, Marberys, Helms, J. B. Smith, Green B. Veach, Pleasant Rose, Sr., Grissoms, Modglins, Bowmans, Bains, Pearces, Fishers and Allen Jones. Wartrace, New Grantsburg and Ganntown are the principal centers and some present farmers are ; E. E. Farquahar, F. M. Simmons, J. D. Wormack, W. J. Miller, E. E. Morgan, Otis Nelson, W. F. Hight, Charles Shelton, Delaskey Walker, E. E. Trovillion, L. P. Morris, C. H. Gray, Pleasant Rose, W. P. Walker and John Hand.

Early Towns

The towns or settlements located on the Ohio River within the original bounds of Johnson County were: Ft. Massac (see Clark's Trail), Wilkinsonville, Napoleon, Caledonia, Trinity and America.

Wilkinsonville, Reynolds says in his history written 1825 "General Wilkinson, who was a British Governor of the northwest territory, appointed in 1769, built cantonment Wilkinson." In the History of Union, Pulaski and Alexander Counties, quoted from Bradley, "General Wilkinson ascended the Ohio River about the close of the war of 1812, to the head of the Grand Chain, with a large body of troops, and built expensive barracks. When the troops were removed, it fell into decay and there is nothing left but graves to designate the place." Which statement is correct one cannot say. There is a plausible reason why the fort might have been built, if it had been 1806 or 1807, as General Wilkinson of the United States Army was understood to be connected with Burr's conspiracy and this fort would have been useful if Burr's plan had carried.

Joshua Copeland, born 1812, and whose father lived near the site of this old fort said, he remembered the drill grounds as a boy, but the buildings had all fallen into decay, which could hardly have happened if they had been constructed in 1812. Victor Collet, a Frenchman in his "Notes on a Journey in North America" describes Wilkinson as follows: "Wilkinsonville was about half way between Ft. Massac and the mouth of the Ohio. It stands upon a beautiful savannah of one hundred acres sixty or seventy feet above the river. It is a place of little or no trade and has sensibly declined since it lost the patronage of a government garrison."

Eli Clemson, father of James Y., was said to have been one of the founders of the town of Napoleon, not a vestige of which remains to tell where it stood. James Y. had a beautiful home and farm on the Ohio River just above old Caledonia the latter part of 1800.