Floyd Township

Floyd Township

LOYD came into the township organization with the other townships. The records of the proceedings of the first meeting were burned, and only a part can be given. The election was held April 4, 1854, at the old town of Cold Brook, when the following officers were chosen : William Laferty, Supervisor; H. S. Hascal, Clerk; G. B. Cross, Assessor; Thomas B. Cross and Charles Phelps, Justices of the Peace ; James L. Grant and Bradley Hecox, Commissioners of Highways. It is numbered ro north, of range i east, and is bounded on the north by Cold Brook, on the east by Knox County, on the south by Berwick and on the west by Lenox Townships. This territory was not overlooked by the early settlers of J Warren County. John Armstrong has the credit of being the first to locate in the township, which was in 1829. He came with his family and located on the south side of the township, on section 23, put up a cabin, the first in the township, and commenced to improve his land and construct for himself and family a home. He was born in Illinois, May ir, 1812, and died in 1882, leaving his kindred and a large circle of friends to mourn his loss. The next to move in was Benjamin F. Allen, with wife and nine children, from Oneida Co., N. Y. The names of the children are Truman D., Eliza, Frederick, Jane, Edwin, Henry and Emery (twins), Albert and Ambrose. These children are all dead but Ambrose and Truman D. Mr. Allen located on section 29. He died July 10, 1872, at the old homestead, and his widow three years later.

Louis and Isaac Vertrees, from Kentucky, with their families, came here in 1830, locating their homes on section 3, where they made many improvements. Isaac, after some years, moved back to his native State. Louis was attached to his home, lived there throughout his long life, and died April 13, 1883, [respected and loved by all who knew him. Elijah Davidson was another early settler, moving in in 1830. He was also from Kentucky. After living here over 20 years, he, with a part of his family, joined the colony that emigrated to Oregon in 1851. Carter T. and Hosea, sons of Elijah Davdson, settled here with him. Carter died in Oregon a few years ago. Hosea moved to Missouri, where he died. Alexander Davidson, son of Elijah, came in about this time. All the Davidsons settled on the school section 16. After these families came John Dodge, his son, John Milton, Felix and David Robinson, George and Henry Cable, Wilson Sheldon, M. D. Matteson, Cornelius Tunnicliff, Thos. D. Allen, and others. After the Black Hawk War the township settled up quite rapidly. Among those coming in after the war was Henry Cable, his wife and six children - Sarah, Mary, Ezra, George C., Chauncy M. and William H. They came in 1835, and settled about a mile and a half east of the town of Berwick, near the township line. Mr. Cable came from Oneida Co., N. Y. Here he lived for over 40 years, improving his farm, accumulating property and rearing his children, most of whom settled about hin. During this long period he took an active part in all the public affairs of the township. In 1866 he moved to Monmouth, where he died, March 8, 1877, at the age of 80 years. His wife, Olive, died in February, 1875, in her 84th year. Mary died in 1851 ; Sarah, who married Mr. Laferty (see biography) is still living in Monmouth. The sons are all living on farms in Floyd Township, except'Chauncy M., who is living in Monmouth. During the Black Hawk War, many of the settlers, fearing attacks from the Indians, went into Knox County, where they remained until the war terminated. The first birth, death and marriage is not definitely remembered, nor the first school taught.

The children living in the territory now embraced by this township, attended school at the old town of Cold Brook ; so also did the people go there for their religious services, which were held under the auspices of the Christian Church. Some of the preachers of this Church would hold services occasionally at private houses in this township. In 1839, a Christian Church was established at Meridian, near the line between Floyd and Berwick Townships, the members joining this organization withdrawing from the Cold Brook Church. Another congregation was formed from the Cold Brook Church, in 1845,3! what was called Short's Corners, section 16. It was one of short duration, and was disbanded in 1847.

The township is watered by Slug Creek and its tributaries, which run southeasterly into Berwick, uniting with Nigger Creek, which empties into Spoon River. The land in this township is nearly all prairie, with slight undulations, except in the southwest portion, where it is timbered and somewhat broken. Along the upper line of the township is the divide, the waters on the north emptying into the Henderson and then into the Mississippi, and those on the South into Spoon River, and then into the Illinois River. The principal crops raised now, are corn and hay. It was once a very heavy producing township in all the cereals, but the land became worn out and a change of product was necessary. The farms in the township are all good and well managed. The dwelling houses are comfortable, and many of them are constructed with taste. In all the school districts are good schools and good school buildings. The Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad passes along the northern line of this township, or between this and Cold Brook. The nearest depot and trading place is Cameron. In population it is estimated that Floyd has not lost in numbers since 1880, it containing then, according to the census reports, 1,162.

Number of acres of improved land, 22,385 ; number of acres of unimproved land, 360 ; value of improved land, $301,5 n ; value .of unimproved lands, $2,880; total value of lots, $4,170; number of horses, 1,065; cattle, 1,422; asses and mules, 6; sheep, 147 ; hogs, 2,665 '> steam engines, 2 ; carriages and wagons, 204; watches and clocks, 73; sewing and knitting machines, 87 ; pianos, 6 ; organs and melodeons, 34; total value of personal property, $606.40.

Warren

REENBUSH TOWNSHIP was one of the early settled townships of the county. Roland Simmons was the first man to settle here, which he did in 1830, making a claim on section 6. He was an energetic, thriving man, prominent in the public affairs of the township, and a good citizen. He died in the summer of 1858, leaving a large family of children and many friends to mourn his loss. His wife preceded him to the other world many years before. They both died at the old homestead where they first located.

Jesse W. Bond and William Taylor, with their families, came in soon after Mr. Simmons, and made claims on section 19. These pioneers were active , and valuable citizens, and did much toward improving and building up the township. They became prominent and active in all public affairs, accumulated fine properties, which they left to their children. They, with their wives, have been dead some years - all dying at their homesteads. James Simmons, his wife and seven children, from Madison Co., 111., came in 1833, and located on section 35. He first came to Illinois in 1816. His children were Andrew W., Sally, Roland M., Alfred W., Francis M., Charles R., William J. and Joanna.

Four children, Nancy, Diana, Arminda and Martin VanBuren, were born in Greenbush. This pioneer died at the farm, Aug. 21, 1873. His wife, Sally, died Aprils, 1855. He left a good inheritance to his children, and was one of the prominent citizens of the township.

Along after these pioneers came John C. Bond, William McMahill, Payton Vaughn, Thomas Moulton, James B. Smith, Jesse Looney, Aaron Powers and Amos Pierce. Some of these pioneers brought with them families. Amos Pierce settled on section 7, and died in July, 1872. His wife died in 1845. (See biography.) James B. Smith died on his way to Oregon. After this the settlement in the township advanced quite rapidly, particularly after the Indian troubles had been finally adjusted.

The first couple to enter into matrimonial relations were Moses D. Hand and Elizabeth Crawford. They were joined in the holy bonds of wedlock Dec. 23, l835> by John C. Bond, Justice of the Peace. The next important event was the death of the sister of John Long. Her body was interred in the Bond burying ground. The first post office was opened at Greenfield, now known as- Greenbush, by Charles Slice. Blankenship & Brother were the first to embark in the ivercantile business. Mr. Desbro was the firsi educated young man to open school in the township, which was in a log house southeast of Greenbush. The first religious exercises, or preaching, was at Roland Simmons' house, by a Methodist circuit rider, in the winter of 1833-4.

Greenbush went into township organization with the other townships, but the records have been lost and only a part of the proceedings of the first election can be given. We find, however, that David Armstrong acted as Moderator at this election. Levi Lincoln was elected Supervisor; William Shores, Collector; A. W. Simmons, Assessor; F. H. Merrill, Clerk; John C. Vaughn and L. L. Ury, Justices of the Peace; J. Butler R. M. Simmons and H. H. Hewitt, Commissioners of Highways.

This township is numbered eight north, of range i west, and has for its boundary line, Berwick Township on the north, Knox County on the east, Fulton County on the south and Swan Township on the west. It is very liberally watered by Swan and Nigger Creeks and their tributaries, which run eastward and empty into Spoon River. The Quincy branch of the C. B. & Q. R. R. crosses the southeast corner of the township. In the northeast portion of the township and along the main creeks the land is somewhat broken, and is very well timbered ; the other portion of the township is rolling prairie. The soil is rich and productive, corn and hay being the principal crop, which have a prolific growth. There are some grand old farms in Greenbush and'many fine dwellings. The people do their trading mostly at Avon, Fulton County, and at Greenbush Village. The population of this township, in 1880, was 1,053, which is about the present number.

1885, the County Superintendent gives the following information regarding the public schools. There were to school districts, the school property being valued at $2,500. All the school buildings are frame. Of persons under 21 years of age there were 406, of which 286 were of scholastic age, 243 being enrolled. The highest wages paid teachers was $5° per month, and the lowest $25. The tax levy for this township was $1,825.

From the Assessor's report for 1885, the following information was obtained : Number of acres of improved land, 22,000 ; number of acres of unimproved land, 1,000 ; value of improved land, $312,120; value of unimproved land, $4,060 ; value of lots, $2,800: number of horses, 900; cattle, 2,060; number of mules and asses, 129; sheep, 636; hogs, 2,- 660; steam engines, i ; carriages and wagons, 227 ; watches and clocks, 159; sewing and knitting machines, 90; pianos, 4; melodeons and organs, 34. Total value of personal property, $840.49.

REENBUSH was one of the early aspiring localities, the citizens of whom looked for. ward with great expectations to the time when there would be solid brick blocks, crowded streets, and all the bustle of a great city. It was platted April 29, 1836, by Roland and James Simmons, on the northeast quarter of section 5, the plat embracing about 40 acres. The name of the village was afterward changed to that of Greenbush, on account of there being another town of the same name in this btate. This town for some years was quite a thriving village, having several stores and business enterprises, but when the railroad came through, which makes and unmakes towns, the trade went elsewhere. There is one general store here now owned by J. C. Johnson, who has a thriving country trade. Mr. Johnson is also Postmaster of the village. Population about 100 souls. There is a good school here, which is taught by Mr. Blair, with an average attendance of about 30 pupils.

Religious

The Baptist Church. The members of the society met on the third Saturday in June, 1836, at the house of Brother Caleb Hedges, organized, and formed the basis for quite a large congregation. Present at this meeting were John Murphy, James Kelsey, John Riggs, Joseph Rudges, B. W. Lewis, Caleb and Polly Hedges, Ellis Lewis, Martha Riggs, Rosanna Murphy, Rachael Butler, Polly Vandeveer and Rev. Chas. Vandeveer. Mr. Vandeveer was chosen Moderator, and John Murphy, Clerk. After mature deliberation, they decided to send for ministers for the purpose of Ijeing constituted into a church. On the third Saturday in July, they again met with additional members who had come in with letters from other societies, to prepare and adopt articles of faith and a constitution for their guidance. Elders Chas. , Vandeveer and Robt. Mays were present to constitute the church, which was given the name of New Hope. This church belonged to the Spoon River J Association. Rev. Chas. Vandeveer was chosen the first pastor, in August, 1830. Services were held in different parts of this and Swan Township, in private houses. Rev. Chas. Vandeveer served his flock until 1854, when death took him to a new field of labor. He was succeeded by Rev. George Tracy, who assumed charge in June 1855, and retired the following year. In May, 1857, Rev. Isaac Vanmeter was called to take charge, and is the present pastor, having served nearly a generation. In 1850, when the Academy was built at the village of Greenbush, the society was permantly located there. This Academy was put up by the people of Greenbush for a school building and for the holding of religious and other meetings. It was a two-story building, the upper part of which was principally devoted to school purposes. At present there are 43 members, and services are held every fourth Sunday, the pastor having other charges in different parts of the county.

ings were held in private houses at first, and after the establishment of school buildings services were held in them, and when the Academy building, as it was called, was erected, which was in 1850, at Greenbush village, they held their services there, in the lower room. In 1870 they completed their new church building, at a cost of $5,000. In April, 187 i, it was dedicated, Rev. Roswell Morse preaching the dedicatory sermon. Rev. Mr. Matthews was the first pastor in charge after the new edifice was erected. He was succeeded by Revs. Hitchcock, Jones, Blackwell, Grant, Torpin and Streator. Rev. N. G. Clark is the present pastor, with service every other Sunday. His other appointments are in Mc- Donough County, which, with Greenbush, belong to the Pleasant Mounds circuit. Present membership of this society is about 50. It was at onetime quite a thriving church, and they had a very graceful, neat little edifice. The building has fallen into decay, and is sadly out of repair. Many of the

''ALE is situated in the western tier of townships, and is numbered 10 north, of range 3, west. Its northern boundary is Sumner township, on the east lies Monmouth, on the south Tompkins township and on the west Henderson County. The first election after township organization had been adopted, was held April 4, 1854, in school house number i. Wm. Nast presided as Moderator, and W. S. VVier, Clerk peo tern. Upon a vote being taken for these officers, Wm. Cannon was chosen Moderator, and S. W. Rodgers, Clerk. Fiftynine votes were cast at this election, which resulted in the choice of Win. Fleming for Supervisor, Wm. Clark, Clerk, B. B. Findley, Assessor, J. C. Ward, Collector, G. H. Smaley and Andrew Jenkins. Highway Commissioners, T. F. Lowther and W. S. Wier, Justices of the Peace; Ira A. Palmer and D. Vanfleet Constables.

The territory now occupied by Hale township was settled about as early as any part of the county. Adam Ritchey, Sr., with his wife, Elizabeth, were the first settlers. They located near Sugar Tree Grove, in 1828. Here he erected a cabin and began his improvements. This family was large enough to have within themselves social amusement and cpmpanionship, and to relieve pioneer life from that dreary loneliness, usually one of its unavoidable and unpleasant features. There was Adam, Jr. John, Abigail, Martha, Elizabeth, Matthew, Caroline and James, Ritchey. Take them altogether they formed quite a little colony, and soon made their impression in the township. Adarn Ritchey died many years ago, and was buried in the Ritchey burying-ground. His widow, Elizabeth, moved to Iowa, where she subsequently died. David Findley and Thomas Campbell came to this settlement in 1829. In 1830, John Kendall and wife, Elizabeth, William and Samuel 1 Gibson, with their wives, James Jenkins, wife and children and James Maley and wife, added their 1 numbers to the settlement. Soon after came John "* Caldwell, wife and three children, John W., Eleanor and Martha, and located on section n. The Caldwells were from Bedford Co., Pa. John Caldwell J was a man of great force of character, and took an active part in the affairs of the county. He was one of the leaders in the establishment of the Associate Church at Sugar Tree Grove, and was one of the first Elders. His wife died at an early day, and he joined her in the other world in December, 1865. Eleanor married John Black. Both she and Martha are dead. John W. Caldwell is living at Monmouth. (See biography.)

To this settlement was added in October, 1831, William Paxton, wife and seven children. They came from Xenia, Ohio, and located on section 2. The names of the children were : W. S., John S., Thomas M., Jane L., Ann, Margaret F., and Mary E. Mr. Paxton took an active part in the public affairs of the township, and was an upright and worthy citizen. He died in March, 1861, at his home. His wife had preceded him, departing this life in January, 1845. Thomas M. is living on the place; John S. is in Iowa; William S. is living at Monmouth. (See biography.) The daughters are all

The next addition to this township was William Turnbull, his wife and two sons, Alexander and Gilbert, and their families, who came in 1832. They located on sections 19 and 30. Mr. Turnbull was a native of Scotland, and had emigrated to this country soon after the close of the Revolution, settling first in Tennessee. Unable to reconcile himself with the institution of slavery, he left Tennessee in 1808, and settled in Ohio. From Ohio he came to Warren County. He was a man of marked character and great religious zeal. He died at his home in Hale Township, in 1835.

Gilbert moved to Henderson County, where he died in 1851. Alexander died in Hale Township in 1856. David Turnbull followed his father from Ohio, in 1833, and settled one mile north of Monmouth. He afterward moved into Hale Township, and located near Sugar Tree Grove. He died in Monmouth, at the residence of his son, John M., in 1871. (See biography of John M.)

William Turnbull's home in Tennessee was near Nashville, and joined that of Andrew Jackson. General Jackson came in after the Turnbulls had settled. He had at that day but little of this world's effects; a light wardrobe and a few law books embraced all of his earthly possessions, but he had a strong, bold spirit and an indomitable will, which was good capital to begin life's struggles with. He had paid out his last copper to procure his passage to this place, his future home, and had no money to pay for the hauling of his baggage, small as it was, to his house. This future soldier, statesman and president was here alone in the world, penniless, friendless, and did not know to whom he might appeal for aid. He fortunately met Mr. Turnbull, made known to him his situation, who readily let him have the money to relieve him of his embarrassment. This generous act to a stranger attached young Jackson to his benefactor, Mr. Turnbull, and they ever afterward were warm friends.

It might be of interest to the reader to mention at this point in the history of this township an incident connected with the life of Gen. Jackson, as related by Wm. Turnbull, in which he to some extent figures, the full and correct account of which probably has never appeared in print.

Some years after Gen. Jackson came to Nashville, he being involved in a quarrel, which finally resulted in a duel. It grew out of a difficulty which occurred at a horse-race, between Gen. Jackson and a young lawyer by the name of Swann, who had recently come into the State from Virginia. The race was for $2,000, and Gen. Jackson had brought forward his favorite steed, Truxton, to win the stakes. Some angry words arose between the General and young Swann, which resulted in the latter sending a challenge. Gen. Jackson refused to accept the challenge on the ground that Swann was not a gentleman, but turned and struck him with his cane. Charles Dickinson, who was also a lawyer, and a man of prominence took up young Swann 's quarrel, challenged Jackson, and insisted on an immediate fight. William Turnbull hearing of the trouble and discovering Jackson in the woods practicing with his pistol, approached him and with all the religious zeal for which his countrymen were noted, labored long and earnestly with the General, trying to persuade him from accepting the challenge. Previous to this affair Jackson was wont to practice with his pistols for hours in the woods. Turnbull discovering this, reprimanded him for his lack of true, Christian principle, telling him that it was not consistent with his religious views. Jackson would reply, that it was not, but that he had to be prepared to live under the " code " or he could not stay in Tennessee. In reply to Mr. Trumbull's remonstrance Gen. Jackson said: "That he could not live there unless he accepted the challenge ; that if he refused to accept it he must leave the country." He told Mr. Turnbull, however, referring to the duel, that he did not intend to shoot Mr. Dickinson; that above other considerations, he (Dickinson) had a wife and child whom he had great regard for.

The challenge sent by Mr. Dickinson was finally accepted by Gen. Jackson. The duel was to take place at a day's ride from Nashville, in Kentucky. Jackson left with his friends for the appointed place. Dickinson arose early in the morning, and kissing his innocent, sleeping child, and taking leave of his beautiful young wife, saying, " good-bye, darling, I will be sure to be at home to-morrow night," started on his fatal journey. After a day's jo;;rney, the two parties arrived near the grounds. They passed the night at farm houses about two miles from each other. The opponents met at the designated place, which was in a grove, early Tuesday morning, May 30, 1806. The arrangements were duly made. The duelists were to face each other at 24 feet, with pistols drawn, and at the word " fire " were to discharge their weapons. Gen. Jackson had informed his friends of the course he intended to pursue. Dickinson was known as a dead shot, and he said it was useless for him to contend against him. He would receive the fire of his antagonist and hold his own. As the sun rose sending its warm spring rays through the young and tender draperies of the trees, and while the wild, beautiful birds were offering up their sweet notes of praise, these human beings faced each other with drawn weapons, one at least intent on murder. The signal was given and the report of the pistol rang out through the clear morning air. When the smoke cleared away, Gen. Jackson was still standing apparently unhurt. He, as he had promised his friends, held his fire. His antagonist seeing him stand there raised up his hand and exf claimed, "What, have I not killed thedamn ? "

The duelling party broke up. Jackson and his friends mounted their horses and turned their steps homeward, leaving the dying Dickinson with his party on the field. As Jackson and his party started homeward he told them that he did not intend to shoot Dickinson, but when he heard the expression used by him, he considered it a reflection upon his mother, which he could not in any way overlook, or forgive. Riding by the side of the General, the surgeon discovered blood running out of his boot. He made him at once dismount, and submit to an examination. On examination, the surgeon discovered that Gen. Jackson had received a very severe wound in the chest immediately over his heart. The ball which his antagonist had sent with so deadly an aim had struck one of his ribs, fracturing it and glancing off, thus saving the General's life. " General," asked the surgeon, " how could you with such a wound in your body, stand so calm and firm, and fire such a shot ? " His reply was : " I would have killed him had I been shot through the brain." This was a very strong illustration of the great nerve of Gen. Jackson, which was so prominently displayed in after years.

David B. Findley was an early settler, moving in as early as 1832. He died in the summer of 1885. Albert Rockwell also came in r832, with his brother, Alfred. Albert died in the fall of 1884. His brother is living on the old place. Bedford Ray settled in the township, on section 26.

Several lamilies moved in from 1832 to 1836, among whom were Aleri Rodgers, wife and ten children, with Hamilton Roney, wife and children. Aleri Rodgers was originally from Rockbridge Co., Va., and he came to the township early in the spring of 1836, having previously lived awhile in Missouri. The names of the children were . John, William, Andrew, Alexander, Mary, Joseph, Phebe, Isabelle, Samuel and Caroline. Four of these are living - Isabelle, Mary, Caroline and Samuel, and all in this country. Isabelle is residing in Monmouth. Aleri Rodgers was a prominent citizen of the township, and took a leading part in all public affairs. He was the first one to introduce the McCormick reaper into the county, which he brought with him from Virginia. He died, respected by all who knew him, Dec. 20, 1863. His widow survived him several years, joining him in that brighter world, July 3, 1879. Andrew was killed by the Indians in Oregon at the time of the Whitman massacre.

Hamilton Roney, after residing here 37 years, moved back to Ohio with a part of his family, and settled near Dayton, where he died, March 3, 1881, in his 75th year.

David B. Findley and Jane Ritchey were the first to join their hands for life's joys and sorrows, its hopes and struggles. This event occurred in 1829. This partnership began in the budding spring-time the most charming season in all the year; a season when the sweet wild flowers look up to greet you, when all nature puts on its new dress, the beautiful birds choose their mates, and the world looks bright, fresh and happy.

"Some bright little isle of their own, In a blue summer ocean far off and alone, AVliere u leaf never dies in the still blooming bowers. And the bee banquet." on through a whole year of flowers."

But they selected a little cottage in the township of Hale, and there, with their loving hearts, and surrounded by their friends, they commenced life's journey. To this couple alone is given the honor of

Martha Jenkins taught the first school in the township, in 1830. It was held in a little log cabin about half a mile north of the old Henderson Church. This is also claimed to be the first school in the county. Martha subsequently moved to Oregon, where she died. The first death in the township was that of William Turnbull, who died at his home in 1835.

The first religious society was formed in November, 1830. It was the Associate Church, and was organized by Rev. James McCarroll, of the Western Mission. It was called the Henderson Church, and also known as the Sugar Tree Grove Church. John Caldwell and Adam Ritchey were the first Elders. There were 27 members forming the first congregation, consisting of the Ritcheys, Kendalls, Gibsons, Jenkins, Findleys and Maley families, and John Campbell. The first building put up for worship by this society, was 24 x 30 feet, in 1830, and was constructed with logs. It was the first church building erected in the county. In 1832 an addition was made, making the building 36 x 40. In 1837, a fine brick edifice was erected, 54 x 60, costing about $4,000. This became one of the noted buildings of the county, and people attended services here from nearly all the townships. It was known for a generation as the "Old Brick Church," and is still spoken of with mournful affection. Having been used for nearly 40 years as a place of worship, it was considered by some of the members that it ought to be torn down and a new building erected. Consequently it was razed by rude hands, and a more modern frame building put up in its place, possibly better adapted and more in consonance with modern . religious ideas.

Rev. James Bruce was the first pastor of this Church, taking charge in October, 1830. Members of this Church came from Little York, Sunbeam, North Henderson, Viola, Spring Grove, Monmouth, Kirkwood, Smith Creek and Pleasant Grove. Mr. Bruce remained with this congregation until October, 1847, when he was succeeded by Rev. John Scott, who regularly took charge in 1849, and served for 19 years, a remarkably long period. At the expiration of this engagement he moved to Monmouth, and took a Professorship in the College. Rev. Tlios. G. Morrow succeeded Mr. Scott, and remained until

1872, when Rev. David A. Wallace took charge, serving the congregation until 1876. Rev. David McDill was then called, and remained until 1884, and then the Rev. R. J. Davidson, the present pastor, assumed charge. During Mr. Bruce's term there were admitted annually, an average of 25 members, and during Mr. Scotts' term 15 members.

In 1858, the Synods of the Reformed and Associate Presbyterian met at Pittsburgh, Pa., and the union between the two branches was consummated under the name of the United Presbyterians. This action was approved by the Henderson congregation, and about the year 1860, they adopted the same name. The present membership of this Church is about 70, and in addition to other services they have a large and interesting Sunday-school.

From 1836, there was a steady influx of settlers, until the land was all taken up. The township was regarded as one of the best in the county for agricultural purposes, and it ranks among the first for stock raising. The land is nearly all rolling prairie, is rich and easily cultivated. There is not a poor farm in it, and but few poor dwellings, while there are very many fine ones. It is watered by Cedar Creek and its branches and some other little streams. The St. Louis branch of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad cuts across the southwest corner, and the Iowa Central comes in at the northwest corner, running along the Eastern line, and passes out on section 25. The people do their trading mostly at Monmouth; some, however, go to Kirkwood. The census of 1880 gives the population at 1,041, and this is about the number at the present day.

The following information regarding the schools of the township, is obtained from the County Superintendent's report for the year ending June 30, 1885 : There were eight school districts, with one brick and seven frame buildings. The school property was valued at $4,625. Of persons under 21 years of age, there were 403, of whom 314 were of scholastic age, 2T9 being enrolled. The highest wages paid teachers was $65 per month, and the lowest $25. The tax levy for this township was $2,735.

3,686 ; steam engines, i ; carriages and wagons, 357 ; watches and clocks, 214; sewing and knitting machines, 102 ; pianos, 10; melodeons and organs, 24. Total cash value of personal property, $80,328.