Vermont Township (part 1 of 2)

Vermont Township

One of the best improved townships in Fulton county is the one the history of which we now write; yet to attempt a history of the township separate and distinct from that of the town woukl be to recapituhite or repeat in a great measure what is to be said of the town of Vermont. Hence witli a few references to some of the leading historical items of the township, we will pass to the history of the town.

It is probable that Moses Davis was the first settler to locate in the township, who came as early as 1832 and erected his cabin onehalf mile southwest of where the town of Vermont is located. The first Church was that of the Protestant Methodist denomination, and was organized in 1843. The society erected a building the same year. The first school-house was built in 183G on the Public Square in Vermont. It was constructed of hewn logs. James Spicer taught the first school in the same year. The first saw-mill in the township was built by Job Bogue in 1838 or '39. The first grist-mill was built by Rhodes Dilwortii in Vermont in 1840. The first tannery was erected by James Boyle in 1843. On the farm of Jonathan Bogue stands the first barn that was ever erected in the township. It was built by Jesse Cox about the time of Job Bogue's settlement in this township.

By 1844 there were quite a number of settlers in the tp. Among them were Isaac Cadwallader, John Evans, the Deane family, Stephen Lindsey, Josiah Zull, Thomas Holmes, J. P, and J. W. Powell, Wm. Marshall, Mr. Chaddock and others.

At this date and jireviously there were no frame houses in the township and very little land under cultivation, and su})j)li('s fi)r settlers were obtained at Lewistown and St. Louis. A horse-mill located on Spoon river and a little water mill on Potatoe creek, built by Mr. P. Williams in 1832, supplied the settlers with their grist. Considerable time, however, was consumed by the pioneers in securing a sufficient quantity of meal to run the family larder.

As immigration set in rapidly westward, the township soon became thickly settled by an industrious, energetic people whose enterprise has brought Vermont to the front rank among the townships of the county. Among the leading farmers of Vermont township outside the town wiio have contributed most largely to the development of the resources of the county, we mention the names of Jonathan Bogue, T. C. Robinson, Joseph Robinson, J. W. Robin- son, J. H. Marshall, John Fleming, Samuel Etnier, Isaac Cadwallader, Abraham Kost, Granville Wright, Nicholas Hipslcy, J. D. and Geo. W. Powell, Reuben Kinsey (who planted the first vineyard), Charles Russell, Evan Fremont, Thos. Holmes and others.

The simplicity of agricultural implements in early days may be more readily conceived from the following incidents, as related by W. G. Clark : The old wooden mold-board plow then in general use would not scour in the tough prairie soil, and Talman Litchfield, disgusted at having to clean his plow every rod or two, offered to deed 50 acres of land to any one who would produce a plow that would scour itself ISIr. Clark, who was then in very limited circumstances, thought this an excellent opportunity to obtain some real estate without expense, and accordingly he and Warren Vail, a blacksmith, manufactured one which was very similar to those now in use. It worked exceedingly well, keeping itself perfectly bright. This was the first really improved plow in Vermont township. Mr. Litchfield was now asked to fulfill his agreement and deed the land ; but this he refused to do. Consequently a lawsuit was undertaken, and a sort of mock trial was had in the old log school-house at Vermont, where much joking, laughing speech-making and flowing of whisky ended the contest.

As illustrative of the happiness of some of the pioneers, the following was told by Mr. Cassidy, of this township : During the earliest settlement of this countrv there dwelt at Barker's Grove a man named Osborn, who lived alone in a small cabin. When the deep snow of 1830-1 fell his humble abode was almost obliterated under a heavy drift of snow. As the snow remained upon the ground for several months, some of those who had settled in his vicinity became uneasy about him ; and having discussed the matter among themselves, they determined to rescue the man or furnish him provisions. Accordingly several citizens, laden with provisions, made their way over the crust that had formed upon the snow to his cabin. When within a short distance of his house, they heard the sound of a violin, and when they entered the rude home, the supposed corjise, or at least invalid, was found with his face wreathed in smiles and enjoying the sweet strains of his violin, and his only visible means of support was one, solitary half-gallon of corn meal.

Vermont

This is one of the most attractive and beautifully situated towns in Fulton countv. It contains many as handsome residences as can be found anywhere in this part of the State. As an old land-mark of this county, the history of its growth, past and present, will no doubt be a[)preciated by those who have been instrumental in its growth and bv those whose settlement in the county has been of recent date. As much of our history is obtained from the original pioneers who came from the sunny South and the enterprising East, we shall, before entering upon any detailed description of Vermont, mention the names and dates of arrival of many whose honorable record and business thrift have made them respected in the community, where many years of trying and eventful life have brought them their reward.

James J. Crail came here in March, 1833, and settled permanently in 1834; Joab Mershon located here during the autumn of 1838, James Dil worth in 1837, Henrv Nelson in 183G, Eliakim Kirkbride in 1839, Ezra Dilworth in 183"?, Dr. \Vm. H. Nance in 1841, S. F. Hoopes in 1841, James A. Russell in 1847, Col. Thos. Hamer in 1845, Edward and Patterson Hamer in 1854, Cephas Toland about the year 1841, Emer Dilworth in 1837, Robert Dilworth was born in the township in 1833 and was brought into town in 1839, Edward Webster settled here in 1850, and others.

James and Joseph Crail were the founders of Vermont, They were Kentuckians by birth and came from Indiana to Vermont in 1833, as above stated, but did not locate permanently until the following year. They had purchased an 80-acre tract of land, which is now within the corporate limits of the town ; and seeing the necessity of a town in this part of the county, they determined on founding one. Assisted by Jonas Rawalt, County Surveyor, who at present resides in Orion town^h p, in 1835 they began a preliminary survey for the town, and ere long the 80 acres just mentioned was platted into town lots. These lots sold quite readily and at fair prices to the few pioneers who then dwelt within the limits of Vermont township. Jas. Crail built the first dwelling, which was a small frame buiiding, and is nowoccui)ied by Mrs. Nlargaret Collins. Mr. Joseph Crail, a brotiier of the well-known James J. Crail who resides in Vermont, and who died in Kansas several years ago, erected the sectond residence. The first store building was rected in 1837 bv xMr. G. Reeves.

Digressing a little from detailing first occurrences, we will relate the circumstances under which Vermont was named. In early day the " little brown jug " was thought to be an indispensable article among the pioneers. Mr. Crail was at a loss to know what the name of the town should be. At the general sale of lots, which was held shortly after the laying out of the town, much discussion and jesting was indulged in on this point; for, be it known, the early settlers were inveterate jokers, and they never lost an opportunity for a little fun. Abitlia Williams, said to be an eccentric character, proposed to Mr. Crail that if the naming of the town was left to him he would see that a gallon of whisky would be forthcoming. The proposition was accepted and the bidders for lots when they were sold pa"took freely, and then, as now, no doubt, somj felt considerably exhilarated. Mr. Williams was a native of the Green M)untain State, and accordingly selected for the name of the town " Vermont," in honor of his State. Jonas Rawalt, the surveyor, had suggested the name of '* Meridian," owing, no doubt,

During the autumn of 1837 Wm, Dilworth and Jesse Cox settled in the township, and the following year moved into the village. There were at that time perha{)s a dozen buildings, log and frame, in the place. A postotfice, of course, was a necessity to the pioneers, and accordingly, in a rough round-log building in the vicinity of David Kirkbride's hotel, a postoffice was started. Wm. jSIcCurdy and A. G. Frisbie were postmasters, and mail was carried once a week bv A. G. Frisbie first, who made the trip to Bernadotte with a little mail bag thrown over his shoulders. After him James Crail was carrier. The trip was made on horseback, and often Mr. Crail carried the mail in his hat. The postage ranged according to distance, from 6i cents to 25 cents on each letter. In those days letters were not enclosed in envelopes, but were folded and sealed in a mysterious way and bore an undisguised appearance of quiet dignity. Very often considerable skirmishing around had to be done by the settlers to procure the necessary 25 cents to get the long looked-for letter from relatives hundreds of miles away.

In 1837 there were three small general stores in the place. Trade was quite limited, and the three merchants did not continue in business a great length of time. Wm. Dilworth started a general merchandise store in 1840, and the same year Rhodes Dilworth built the first steam mill, which is supposed to be the first in the Military Tract. Customers came from a distance of 50 or 60 miles to this mill. Goods were purchased from St. Louis, transported to the most convenient landings on the river and hauled from there in wagons. During the winter of 1838 salt sold as high as 6^ cents per pound ; subsequently it sold readily for 8 cents per pound. It was not long before the increased immigration began to tell upon the business and prosperity of the town. In 1838 Joab Mershon, poor and unknown, entered the town, and for several years engaged in shoemaking. In 1841, with a light capital but an abiding faith in the future prosj)erity of the town, he entered into business, erecting a two-story brick building on the east side of the Square. This was at the time the only store in the place, and from the start Mr. Mershon transacted a very good business. The following year Enos Monohan,a Christian preacher, bought a small building south of town and entered into comi)etition with Mr. Mershon.

Previous to 1850 the several merchants of the place, besides those have mentioned, were Edward Staplefi)r(l, who kept a general store, John J. Lynn and James Dilworth. In 1842 the American House was built l)y the present proprietor and J. W. Kelly. It was then 18 by 20 feet, and two stories in height, and erected of brick. It was looked upon by the citizens with something akin to pride. In 1840 a grist-mill was built by Rhodes Dilworth and William Fellon, west of the Square, 40 by 40 feet. This was a three-story frame building, and was really the main stay and hope of the town for some time. It brought many customers from the remote parts of this and adjoining counties, to the joy ol" its enterprising proprietors. About this time James Boyle erected a small building, and in connection with Robert Anderson built a tannery, which establishment boasted but little of the modern and improved machinery of this day, the process of tanning then requiring weeks. Being only moderately successful, they sold to Cephas Toland, Avho transacted quite a large and successful business. Still a second tannery was found to be necessary, - at least it was thought so. The proprietors of this one were Heizer & Stevens, who built a tan-yard in the western part of town.

In 1844 or '45 a saw-mill was erected. The first saw-mill was run i)y horse and ox tread power, but was turned into a steam gristmill in 1845. The saw- mill drew but little trade to the town and proved un})rofitable to its owners, and accordingly it was converted into a carding-mill. This, it appears, was not a financial success, and accordinglv the maehinerv for a distillerv soon arrived and the manufacture of the ardent began. This was perhaps a more successful bid for a little of the hard-earned money of the pioneers. The distillery was run about 4 years and was then converted into what was known as the East Grist-Mill. About this time Benj. Swartz and John Evans ran a shoe-last factory. In 184G a general merchandise store was opened by Winans & Smith ; in 1849 by Stevens, Heizer & Winans.

For a time the town grew quite rapidly and it often presented a very busy aspect. As the westward flow of emigration was great, many were attracted to this pleasantly situated town. The surrounding country was fertile, the land (>asily cultivated and yielded large quantities of wheat and other cereals; and ere many years had rolled around, all the Congress and patent land in the township was occupied. Vermont enjoyed a season of prosj^erity lasting for several years. Main street was often crowded with t-eams, sometimes extending for a distance of half a mile, being a solid mas§ of wagons. Large quantities of pork were packed here in early day, which was hauled to landings on the river, put aboard steamboats and shipj)ed south.

The following detailed account of the cholera of 1851 was prepared by Esquire H. S. Jacobs and published in the Lcwistown Democrat June 5, 1879:

The Cholera Of 1851

It will be remembered that this scourge appeared in New Orleans in the fiill of 1848, and raged there during the following winter. It made its appearance in St. Louis in February, 1849. The first case was attended by Prof. Barber, of McDowell's Medical College. The faculty laughed at him for pronouncing it cholera; but in a few days after Dr. Barber himself died with it. The doctors then gave the alarm, and great preparations were made to stay its jirogress. But it spread rapidly, and that, together -with the great fire of May 17th which swept away a great part of the city, seemed to blight the prospects of the growing city. The cholera continued there during the summers of 1850-51.

About the first of June, 1851, Esq. Jechoniah Langston went from here to St. Louis on business. Soon after his return he was taken ill. Not knowing the disease to be cholera, the people attended to him as was the custom. He died on the 7th of June. The remains were taken to the church of which he was a member, and a funeral preached, the coffin opened, and the body viewed by those present. The weather was very warm, with southeasterly winds and frequent rains.

John McHenry and several of his family were taken down the day after Langston's death. There not being room in his house for all of them, he was taken to the Christian church, where he received all the care and attention that was possible; but he died shortly after. Four of his children died - Samuel on the 8th, Enos on the 10th, Thomas B. on the 12th, and Mary A. on the 17th of June. On the r2th a young man named Thomas Kent Woodward died at the American House, and on the same day another young man, a stranger, died at Nathan Soarl's. On the 20th a young man by the name of Wm. Haney, employed as clerk for Dr. John Hughes, died. Mrs. Elizabeth Hughes, wife of the Doctor, died on the i9th. Mrs. Mary E. Blanton, a friend of the Doctor and his fimily, was taken ill about this time and died on the 2."kl. Two colored boys also died at this house, - one on the 21st and one on the 23d. \Vm, Boswell, a saddler, also died on the 21st.

Dr. Isaac B. Bacon, who had recently come to the place, and wlio had gained quite a reputation for his close attention to the sick, came home fiHjm the country with the disease about dark on the evening of the 27th, and died about dayligiit the next morning. James B. Fowler and a Mr, Frankenbury lost two children each ab(nit this time. Wm. P. and Rebecca J. Edie died on the 28d and 24th respectively. Grandfather Euclid Mercer was buried about this time. As the friends returned from his burial, the man who made his coffin (a Mr. Murphy) came for Dr. Nance to go and see his mother-in-law. The Doctor with I. B. Witchell went out there. The man met them at the door, and showed clear symptoms of cholera. They were both buried before 12 o'clock that night. John Kirkbride, a brother of David Kirkbride, died June 27th, on the farm beyond Sugar creek, in McDonough county, now owned by Robert Andrews. His brother Eliakim died in town a few days after. ^Irs. Jane Andrews, mother of Robert, died at the house of Joseph Crail July 4th. Bird Anderson, brother of Mrs. Cephas Toland, was taken down about this time. He was thought to be dead, his coffin was ])repared and ])re]>arations for his burial made. But he recovered and lived to serve his country faitiifully in the war of 18G1, removed to Kansas where he died five or six years ago. A young woman named INIaria A. Patterson died at the Hayes House July "id. David Merrick died on his farm just west of town July 11th. Elizabeth, wife of John A. Craij^ and sister to Mrs. William Alexander, died on the 24th, and her sister, Mrs. Taylor, died soon after. Oscar D., son of James A. and Elizabeth Russell, died Aug. 1st. Julia A., wife of Wm. Hayes, died July 31st. Philip Weaver died August 27th ; Elizabeth Davis August 6th, and Richard C. Johnson, brother of Mrs. T. Hamer and Mrs. J. A. Russell, on Sept. 3d. Lemuel Burson, one of those who waited on the sick during the whole time, was taken down among the last cases and went to join those he had helped to care for.

These are the names of a majority of those who died, although there were others whose names we could not get. There were also many others who recovered.

Mr. Witchell says he waited on some seventy cases. During the prevalence of this dread disease in our midst many cases of extreme sadness occurred, and some that were mirth-provoking - among the latter being a man who came to town with a lump of tar sticking under his nose. All business was suspended, except to furnish what w'as needed for the sick and dead. Mr. Mellor kept open the store of Stephens & Winans for that purpose.

During this trying time Mansfield Patterson kept the Hayes House, and kept his table set at all hours for those waiting upon the sick and dvino-.

In this, as in all cases of the prevalence of epidemic or contagious disease, a few persons took hold and in a systematic manner waited on and cared for every one of the sick during the whole time of this dreadful calamity, forgetting self and thinking only of tlie suffering around them. Most prominent among these were the following: Isaac B. Witchell, Cej)has Toland, John jSIathewson, Joseph B. Royal, H. S. Thomas, Mansfield Patterson, Wm. Mellor, C. B. Cox, Lemuel Burson and David Clark. Among the ladies who assisted in this noble work were Mrs. Elizabeth Westlake, Mrs. Martha Burr, Mrs. Sarah M. Witchell, Mrs. America Toland and Mrs. Patterson ; and many a poor sufferer had the benefit of their kind care and attention. But of these only Mrs. Toland and Mrs. Burr survive. Mr. Clark, after the cholera ceased here, went to Bluff City where the cholera soon made its appearance. He again waited on and nursed the sick, was himself taken down and died, being the last case.

Of all these it can truly be said, they did all that men and women could do during that trying time, and during all these 28 years since, those who survive have ever been ready and willing to aid the sick and relieve the distressed wherever and whenever their services were needed, and this without ostentation or display. Such self-sacrifice will never go unrewarded.

Early in the history of the town Churches and schools were established. At first religious services were held in j)rivate houses and an old log Iniilding that remained for a number of years on what is now the Public Square; and in this the pioneer boys and girls were instructed in the " three R's," - " Readin', 'Ritin' and 'Rethmetic," these being the only studies then in vogue ; and yet there were graduated - if so it might be termed - from tiiis humble cabin a class of men who vie with any throughout the county, of a wider field of learning, in wealth, intelligence and enterprise. Their old familiar school-teacher, Wni. McCurdy, with his kindly ways and strict honesty, will long be remembered by many who now are prominent as farmers and business men.

At present the town of Vermont is well up with the other towns of the county in the educational advantages offered. There are two graded schools, known as the North and the South schools. Prof. Brake presides as principal of the North school. The number of scholars in attendance at this school is about 150, and the several teachers, besides the principal are Misses AskcNV, Searles and Miller. The school building is constructed of brick, pleasantly located and substantially built, at a cost of several thousand dollars. The graded school known as the South school contains about 130 scholars. The principal is Miss Narcissa Bates, and the other teachers are R. Sergeant and Miss Jennie Gilbert. This is a handsome two-story brick structure located in the southern part of the city. The Board of Directors for the North school is composed of Edward Hamer, Henry Daugherty and Elwood Sidwell. 'I'he Board for the South school is composed of Jesse Bogue, Aaron Bellange and Ezra Dilworth.

Methodist Church. - The early settlers assembled in the old school-house and dwellings for religious worship and to listen to the circuit preachers as they made their monthly visits. Early in the history of the town the Methodist Church was organized. A fine frame church building was erected in the northern part of the town, and is the largest church structure in the place.

The Christian Church was organized in November, 1847. Following are some of the original members : J. H. Hughes, J. B. Royal (since Pastor), J. G. F. Henderson, S. Frankcnbury, Cephas Tolaud, J. Langston, AVm. Schooley, L. D. Cleringer, Robert Andrews and many others. About this time the present church structure was built. ' It is situated on North Union street. The several pastors have been Elders J. B. Royal, J. B. Corwin, Wm. Grif- fin, Henry Smither, P. D, Vermillion (the present Pastor), H, T. Butf, D. K. Shields and others. At present the membership is large, numbering over 200, and among those who take a leading position in the Church we mention John A. Gilliland, Ebenezer Freeman, Wm. Worsdell, H, S. Jacobs, John A. Webster, and Cephas Tohuul. Among the ladies are Mrs. America Toland, Elvira Toland, Martha A. DeFraine, P]lizabeth Hamer and Mrs. C. M. Parker. It is quite probable that the Vermont Church is the strongest Christian Church in the county. Elder P. D. Vermillion, the present Pastor, is a gentleman of ability and high culture, and is well qualified for the position he holds. He is a native of Kentucky, brought up in Sangamon county. 111., and came to Fulton county in 1872.

Miscellaneous

The Vermont Library Association was organized in 1858, with a fund created by an association of the women of the place known as the Vermont Ijadies' Sewing Society, and a contribution of books by the ladies and gentlemen of the community. The institution prospered finely until the suffering contlition of the sick and wounded soldiers in the army during the late war rallied all the interests, sympathies and exercises of the women into the sanitary work for the soldiers' relief and comfort, when it was entirely neglected until years after the war closed. The library now contains 500 volumes, and is in a prosperous condition.

Bank. - As the town grew in importance, a bank for the purpose of exchange, loans and deposits became necessary, and accordingly Joab Mershon, with his usual enterprise and having ample capital, set about the erection of a suitable building for this purpose. He had previously purchased a good jwrtion of town property, and in 1868 laid the foundation for the present handsome and substantial bank building and public hall, known as Mershon's Hall. This is one of the finest brick buildings in the countv.

Personal Sketches

Adams & Sexton, wagon-makers and blacksmiths, Vermont ; have been associated in business four years ; Jonas Adams was born in this county in 1849, learned his trade at Springfield, 111., worked a^ journeyman in Vermont, and in 1875 entered partnership with Mr. Sexton. James Sexton, born in Madison Co., O., in 1833, emigrated with his parents in 1844 to a point about 8 miles north of EUisville, this county; at the age of 19 he learned carriage- making; at Canton, and in I860 came to Vermont and followed his trade. During the war lie enli.sted in Co. F, 84th 111. Inf., and was honorably discharged in March, 1863, on account of physical debility.

Milton Amrine, merchant, of the firm of Amrine, Nelson & Co., settled in Fulton Co. in 1845. He was born in AV. Va. in 1833. His father, Frederick Amrine, was a native of Pa., was shoemaker, then millwright, distiller and merchant, and accumulated property very rapidly. While in Va. he married Nancy Shepard, of Maryland, bv whom he had 7 children. From 1835 to 1850 the familv resided in Illinois, mostly in Woodford Co. In 1850 Mr. Frederick Amrine started for California, but death overtook him at Ft. Bridger, near Salt Lake City. Milton married Roxana Litchfield, daughter of Chauncey L., and they have had 10 children, 9 of whom arc living, - ^Iahlon, Martha N., Ansel, Clover, Lucy, Ida, May, Charley and Roscoe. In 1850 Mr. A. went to California, the followinp; vear he returned home and since then has followed farming, except that for the last two years he has been in the mercantile business.

Henri/ Anfield, bridge-builder and miner, was born Dec. 3, 1833, in Yorkshire, Eng. ; his father, Wni. Anfield, was a prominent merchant, who married Frances A. Colby, and had 11 children, 3 of whom died in infancy. Henry learned the carpenter and joiner's trade, and in his 19th year married Eliza J. Oldfield ; in 1859 he came to America and followed his trade at Colchester, 111., until ho came to Fulton Co. 14 years ago ; settling at Table Grove, he followed mining, principally, until 1868, when he removed to Vermont. They have had 5 children : Charles (deceased), William, Isabel H., Charles E., and Emily A.

Derry & Arvingdale, manufacturers and dealers in carriages, buggies and wagons, etc.. Main st., Vermont. These gentlemen are practical workmen, and their principal work is jobbing and rej)airiny:. Mr. J. W. Derrv is a native of this countv and learned his trade with ^Ir. G. W. Derry in Vermont. Jacob B. Arringdale was born in Ohio, reared in Fulton Co., and learned his trade with Reuben Hutf. Mr. A. is said to be one of the most skillful workmen in the State.

R. R. Atherton, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 24; P. C, Vermont; was born in Harrison Co., O., in 1823; his father, Boaz A., was a native of Penn., where, in 1812, he was joined in matrimony to Miss Mary Ross; the following year he settled in Ohio; in 1852 he emigrated to Vermont tp., where he died at the age of 88 years, and his wife died soon afterward, aged 83. Mr. R. R. Atherton married Jane Hilton in Ohio, in 1848 ; she was a daughter of Wm. Hilton, of Ireland. In 1852 they emigrated to this tp. Children-^ Mary E., Wm., John, Kester, Ella, Boaz, Richard E. and Laura.

and was a farmer. Evan married Elizabeth McHenrv, daughter of James McHenry, of Irehind. In 1836 they emigrated to Vermont township, settling on a piece of timbered land which he had previously purchased, where he found but an acre and a half cleared, with a cabin on it. Here he worked and prospered and obtained a good reputation as a citizen. In 18(38 he was elected County Treasurer. He was killed by a runaway «Iuly 15, 1878. He left a widow, now in her 71st year, and 10 children, 4 having formerly died.

George Bafesnn, farmer, sec. 21 : P. O., Vermont ; was born in Perry county, O., in 1843; his father, Lewis Bateson, was an Ohio farmer who married Nancy Forsythe and had 12 children; they emigrated to this tp. when George, the voungest, was about 13 years of age; in 1862 the latter enlisted in *Co. A, 28th 111. Inf., fought at Mobile and in several other noted engagements; honorably discharged March 10, 1865.

Joseph Beam, farmer and brick-mnker, was born in Bucks Co., Pa., in 1814. His father, Amos Beans, was also a native of Penn., married Miss R. H. Congler, by whom he had 3 children. They moved to Harrison Co., O., where Jost^ph grew up and k'arned the mason's trade; married Abigail Rankin, daughter of John Rankin, of Pa., in 1837; in 1844 he came to Illinois, Vermont tp., and bought 60 acres of land from ^Morris Merrick, who had recognized Mr. B. on his arrival here by the loss of two fingers which he, Mr. M., had accidently cut off when they were boys 30 years before. In 1857 Mr. Beans built the largest brick dwelling-house in the township. He has had 5 children, 4 of whom are living: Sarah J., who married AVm. Forquer ; Amos, who enlisted in Co. B, 84th 111. Inf ; severely wounded. John R., who was a soldier in Co. F, 65th III. Inf, and wounded at Marietta ; George, who died in the army while enlisted in the Union cause; Martha, who married Jas. Forquer and resides in California; and Joseph, who enlisted in Co. G, 50th 111. Inf, went through Sherman's campaign, returned to Fulton county, married in 1874 Margaret Toland.

Jonathan Bogue, farmer, sec. 28 ; P. O., Vermont ; was born in Harrison Co., O., in 1822, and about 1829 the family moved to Indiana, and the following year to Bernadotte tp., this Co.; he built the first house and plowed the first furrow on Ipava Prairie ; in 1850 he married Miss Emily, daughter of Thos. and Anna Robinson, early settlers of Vermont tp., and 4 children have been born to them, 3 of whom are living, - Job, Ruth A. and Harry.

JcHse Bogue, merchant, was the first white child born in Pleasant tp. His father, John Bogue, was born in X. C. in 1875; at the age of 16 he settled in Ohio, where he afterward married Mary Ann Easley, daughter of Daniel Easley, of Virginia, by whom he had 11 children ; 10 are living at the ))resent time. The family arrived on Ipava Prairie in the spring of 1831 and j)re-empted i sec. of land. Here he built a cabin, obtaining help from Lewistown ; three years afterward he moved into Vermont tp., where he built the first saw-mill. He dierl in 1876. Mrs. B. died in 1871. Jesse, the 9th child, went to school in a lo^ school-honse on the gronnd which is now the Public Scjuare in Vermont, his first teacher being Lewis Kelly. In 1855 he married Rebecca Cox, of Fulton Co.; in 1856 he built a steam saw-mill on Otter creek, in Vermont tp., where he continued until 1864, when he built a first-class grist-mill in Vermont, of which he is still i)roprietor. In 1876 he started a grocery on Main street, and has good success.

Robert Bogue, miller, was born in Harrison Co., O., in 1826; he was 3 years of age when his parents emigrated with him to this county. He worked in the saw-mill with his father and went to school in the winter. His teachers were James Spicer (the first in the tp.) and J. Frisbie. When of age he bought an interest in a saw-mill at Browning, which was subsequently destroyed by fire. He also assisted in the building of a grist-mill at Browning, and did a fine business from 1849 to 1868, in partnership with his cousin, John Bogue. Their fiour had a great reputation, finding its way to remote parts of the Union ; but in the manufacturing of wagon material they did not do so well. In 1874 he oversaw the construction of a bridge 65 feet high and 1,000 feet long over the Vermillion river at Danville, - one of the best bridges in the State. He then rented the grist-mill at Browning a 'year, and then returned to Vermont and took charge of the mill owned by Jesse Bogue. In 1858 he married Mary A.f Marshall. Mrs. Bogue died in October, 1864; and in 1866 he married Martha J. Ramsay, daughter of \Vm. Dunlap, and they have had two children, Sarah^aud Mary.

Jacob jBo^/fH^er^f, retired farmer, was born May 13, 1803, in Ohio, near the Ohio river, on which water he si)ent much of his youth in boating. April 12, 1827, he married Flizabeth Swengen in Virginia. In 1836 he and other parties built a keel-boat and sailed down the Ohio, and Mr. B. came bv wav of St. Louis to Vermont tp. Here he commenced in a very humble way, but by industry and frugality has now a good 200-acre farm. Has had 11 children: 7 survive, - Lewis, Josephus, Nancy, Martha, Fpaminondas, Levi and ^'m. The latter married Florence Foster and lives on the homestead. Thev have 4 children, - Ora A., Cora, Jennie M. and Carl D.

Cyiarlca Brown, farmer, sec. 16, and proprietor of the Brown sawmill, was born in Medina Co., O., in 1824. His father, Obadiah B., was born in Connecticut and reared in the Excelsior State, where he married Miss Clarissa Loomis. Of this union were born 13 children, the 9th of whom was Charles. About 1834 the family moved to Indiana, where Mrs. B. died; about 1840 they moved to Missouri, where in 1846 Charles n)arricd Miss Emeline, daughter of Wm. Bradley, of Va. ; 1855-60 they lived in Warren Co., 111., and since then in Vermont tp.

born in Maryland and moved to Ohio in 1801, where he married Ellen Ryan. John grew to manhood in Ohio, following agriculture. In 18;3.3 he married Mary Ann Fellows, daughter of" Wm. Fellows, of Maryland, by whom he had 8 children, only 4 of whom are living, - Ellen, John, Wm. and Mary. Mrs. Bucy died March 12, 1851 ; in 1853 Mr. B. married Mary Ann Ryan, and they have had 6 children, 4 of whom are living, - Matilda E., Sarah M., Nancy C, Hezekiah and George. The family emigrated to this tp. in 1866.

Joshua Bucy, farmer, sec. 36 ; P. O., Astoria ; born in Jefferson Co., O., in 1843; his father, John Bucy, was also born in Ohio, he moved to DeWitt Co., 111., and after remaining there one year he moved to Vermont township. Joshua passed his youth in Ohio, and was liberally educated. Aug. 15, 1867, he married Mary E. Clark, daughter of W. G. Clark. Children : John W., Minnie B., Ann E. and Henry R.

Lemuel Burson, deceased, was born in Guernsey Co., O., in 1818; married Elizabeth Otters, and had 5 children, only 2 of whom survive, namely, Jesse, who is married and resides in Vermont, and Franklin, who resides on the homestead. He died in 1854, leaving a widow, who is still living. By trade he was first a plasterer, but during most of his life he was a farmer.

Imac CadwaUader, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 14; P. O., Vermont; born in Ohio, in 1806, and in 1829 emigrated to Lewistown, Fulton Co., ^vith the family ; in 1830 moved to Vermont, where he pre-empted land in 1832. He was therefore among the very earliest pioneers in this tp. His cabin was the second or third in the tp. He still has some of the stock of bees he took from a bee-tree 40 years ago. In 1831 he was married by Esquire John Howard (the first settler here) to Miss Elizabeth Ackerson, a daughter of Garrett Ackerson, of N. J., by Ayhom he has had 7 children, all of whom are living and in comfortable circumstances, - Thos. T. ; Isaac B. resides in Nebraska; John Garrett and Anna E. live in McDonough Co. ; and Susan C. and Sarah E. reside in Fulton Co. Mr. C.'s father, John C, was a native of Penn., where he followed farming, and where he married Ruth Bogue and had 9 children; in April, 1806, he emigrated to Tuscarawas Co., O., where he remained until 1829, when he came to this county. He died in 1866 ; Mrs. C. died in 1843.

Leander Casmlij, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. T"; P. O., Vermont; born in New York in 1832 ; reared on a farm ; liberally educated ; taught school ; in 1856 moved to Ohio and taught school a few months, then moved to McDonough Co., 111., where he taught for 8 years. In 1859 he married Louisa Cox, by whom he has 7 children ; in 1865 he moved to Fulton Co., settling in this tp.

John Chaddock, farmer, sec. 24; P. O., Vermont; was born here in 1833, son of James and Lydia (Mercer), natives of Ohio; his father came on foot to Illinois, and being overtaken by the deep snow (1830-31), he became diseonraged and returned to Ohio in the spring, but in 1833 he settled permanently in this county ; he died in 1868, and his wife died when John was but 10 years of age; the latter received a liberal education ; in the last war he enlisted in Yates' Battalion of sharpshooters, and was in many a sharp encounter. He married Mahala B. Petty, daughter of John Petty, of Indiana, and their children are Minnie, Irving and Jesse.

W. G. Clark, farmer, sec. 36 ; P. O., Astoria ; born in Ohio in 1812; his father, John Clark, was born in Maryland, and died in Ohio when the subject of this sketch was very young; Nov. 26, 1834, the latter married Rachel Knock, of Delaware, and they are parents of 6 children, 3 of whom are living, - John, ^\'esley and Elliza. In 1842 the family emigrated in a covered wagon to Bernadotte tp., this county, took 80 acres of wild land, exce]>t a few acres around a log cabin and a saw-mill, formerly owned by Moore Marshall, the builder. Mr. C. ran this mill until the late war, when his two sons, John and Weslev, left for Uncle Sam's service. Mr. Clark's first wife died Oct 1, 1843, and he married Elizabeth Traynor, March 22, 1844, and they have 4 children, - Mary, Rachel, Henry and Jane.

S. Cochran, barber, was born in Pennsylvania in 1851 ; his father, Jesse C, emigrat(!d with him to Iowa, where Snowden (our subject) grew to manhood and received a liberal education. He moved to Clinton, Mo., and married Lizzie Montgomery, and came to Vermont in 1876, where he has since followed his vocation with great success.

Caleb Cox, deceased, was a merchant and banker of Vermont. He was born in Pennsylvania in 1833, the 3d son of Jesse and Therdisa Cox, who settled in this Co. in 1837, in Vermont tp. ; he received a liberal education, and Oct. 18, 1860, married Anna "Wilkinson, of Pennsylvania, whose parents emigrated to this county about 23 years ago. At the beginning of the war he enlisted in Co. F, 84th 111. Inf , was first elected Captain and afterward Major, and served faithfully until the war closed. Was in many battles, notably that of Murfreesboro. He then returned to Vermont, bought property, and in 1868 he became an C(iual partner with Joab Mershon and organized the Vermont Bank. In 1871 he erected one of the finest residences in the county. In 1S()() he was elected to the Legislature, the first Republican representative from Fulton Co., He was an energetic business man, very jjopular, but while yet in the prime of life he took sick and died, leaving a widow and 7 children, - Wilmer, Theodore, Mary, Olive, Edward, Howard and Sherman.

Geo. Co.r, farmer, etc., sec. 18; P. O., Vermont; M^ars born in Guernsey Co., O., in 1847 ; his father, Thomas Cox, settled in Mc- Donough Co. in pioneer times ; George was brought up on a farm ; in 1868 he purchased his present farm. In 1867 he married Nancy Craigo, by whom he has three children, - Granville, Maud and Edna.

Jesse Cox, retired, was born in Chester Co., Pa., in 1807, of Quaker parents, who were of Enp;lish descent. Thomas Cox, father of Jesse, grew to manhood in Penn., where he followed the two callings of carpenter and farmer; he married Elizabeth Messer, and they had 5 children, of whom Jesse was the third. The ])arent8 died in Penn. Jesse learned the carpenter's trade ; married Theodosia Mershon, daughter of Henry Mershon, of N. Y., July 27, 1829, in Penn.; came to Vermont in 1837, followed carpentering, built the first store (of any note) in Vermont, and both grist-mills; he was the first Justice of the Peace, serving 8 years in this capacity ; has been Supervisor; in 1841 he purchased i sec, and afterwards J sec. more, and one year he raised the largest crop of wheat ever raised in the county, shipping 350 barrels to St. Louis one day. Mrs. C. died July 8, 1871, leaving 4 children, - Samuel, Henry, Rebecca and Mary.

iSamue^ Co.r, agriculturist, sec 12; P.O., Vermont. Forty-two years ago Jesse Cox, the father of Samuel, moved from Chester Co., Pa., to this county. He married Theodosia, sister of Joab Mershon, of Vermont, and came to this township, where he now resi('es. Samuel was 4 years of age when his parents came here. He grew to manhood npon the farm, received a good common-school education. In Sept., 1854, he married Abigail Freeman, daughter of Miushall G. F., who bore a prominent ])art in the early history of the county. Like nearly all of the leading farmers, Mr. C. began life poor. His children are Ann J., Jesse, Eben and Melvina.

Win. Craig, deceased, was a native of Harrison county, 111., followed farming, married first Miss Wallace, secondly her sister and lastly Miss Elizabeth Jamison, Isabel township, by whom he had two children, - William and John. He emigrated to Isabel township in 1842, with some means, and has prospered, at one time owning over 1,400 acres of land. He died Feb., 1871, his widow still living.

James J. Crail, auctioneer, and founder of the town of Vermont, was born in Kentucky, Sept. 12, 1812. His father, Wm. Crail, was also a native Kcntuckian, a wheelwright by occupation, and married Margaret Mayall, daughter of Joseph Mayall, a Revolutionary soldier, who lost his property by British confiscatior. In 1834 Mr. C. moved to Fulton county, where hp died at an advanced age. Mrs. Crail is still living, and is in her 85th year. Of their 9 children James J. is the eldest. He came into this township with the family, when there were but 6 or 7 cabins here, the residents being Wm. B. Higgins, Abraham Williams, Mr. Wright (father of Granville Wright), Issac Cadwallader and Caleb Dilworth. Mr. Crail, of course, at that early day went through all the experiences characteristic of the times, fully described in chapters I, II and X of this volume. He saw that the citizens began to consider Havana and Beardstown rather too far for convenience, and that there was a demand for a business place nearer by. He selected a site and erected a cabin on the ground now occupied by Sidwell's. Wm. McCurdy built the second cabin, and here .subsequently these two gentlemen carried on saddle and harness-making, and this was the germ of the village. The next building was a frame, used as a storehouse by Greene Reeves. Other buildings went up, and directly Mr. C, in partnership with Dr. A. M. Jolinson, started a dry-goods and grocery store, shipping and packing. Dr. Johnson was one of the most active and enterprising men in the early history of the county, and did much to further the interests of Vermont. After two or three other changes in business he, in 1850, went to Calii'ornia with an ox team. Mr. C. still resides in Vermont.

George \V. Berry, wagon manufacturer and general blacksmith, west side of the Square, Vermont, 111. Mr. Derry was born near Harper's Ferry, Va., in 1824. His father, Wm. Derry, was also a native Virginian, a farmer, who married Barbara Ross; they had 9 children. George W., the youngest, went to Freeport, Harrison Co., O.. when a lad, and in 1841 emigrated to Astoria, 111., where he went to school and worked at the usual rough and heavy drudgery of pioneers ; worked with Franklin Fackler and Zachariah Gilbert, learning his trade with the latter; carried on business two years at Pulaski, Hancock Co., then resumed business at Astoria. In 1847 he married Melinda Anderson, a daughter of James Anderson. For a time Mr. Derry lived in Mason county; in 1853 he settled at Vermont and put uj) his present establishment, and docs a good business. Of his 7 children 5 arc living, namely, John and Armadale, manufacturers of wagons and buggies in Vermont; Wm. L., a farmer in Kansas; George L. and Elmer E., at home; and Sarah S., who married E. Knock, of Astoria.

ir. H. Derry, school-teacher and newspaper correspondent, was born in Freeport, Harrison Co., O., in 1842; his folks emigrated to Vermont tp., where he grew to manhood, received a liberal education, has taught school several terms, and been Assessor, Collector, Justice of the Peace, and township Clerk. In 1863 he married Miss Martha Dennison, of Ohio, by whom he has six children, - Vietta, Alonzo, Amos, Dora, Irene and Grace. Democrat. Mr. Derry's father, John D., emigrated from Virginia to Ohio, followed cabinet-making and married Miss Bathia Wharton, of Ohio. They had 8 children, 4 of whom are living and are residents of Fulton Co., with one exception. John Derry, with his family, emigrated to Vermont tp. in 1850, where he now resides.

Ezra Dlhrorth. During the spring of 1808 Ezra Dilworth and Emer added to the attractiveness of Vermont in the erection of the two-story brick business house on Main st., now owned and occupied by Ezra Dilworth as a hardware store and agricultural wareroom. Later thev erected another, which adds beautv to Main st. As far back as 1854 Messrs. E. <^ E. Dilworth began business in a small way, - purchasing a small one-story frame building 16x30. This store was stocked with goods from St. Louis. The new firm, through well directed energy, business tact and honesty, soon gained for them a trade, and step by step they have climbed far beyond the lowest rundle of the ladder, carrying as large a line of first-class goods as any similar firm in the county.

James Dihoodh, agriculturist, bought a tract of land near Vermont in earlv dav, while doino; a successful business as a merchant in town ; married Elizabeth Harris, of Farmer's tp., in 1851, by whom he had two children, Clara and AVm., who resides in Fulton Co. Mrs. D. died in Jan., 1867. In Sept., 1869, Mr. D. married Miss Marv Chicken, and thev have one child, Elza. Mr. D. owns 340 acres of good land, and recently has erected a fine residence. For the past 15 years he has been School Treasurer, and has been Township Assessor.

Rhodes, Dilworth, retired farmer, etc., was born in Chester Co., Pa., in 18(J0, the second child of Caleb and Ann Dilworth; at 13 he moved to Ohio and learned the miller's trade; became proprietor of a mill and a steamboat; came to Vernu)ut in 1837; followed farming three years; in comjiany with Wm. Felton, built a grist-mill in Vermont; in 1848 sold out and went into the shipping business at Browning; burned out in 1855, since which time he has been comparatively out of business. He married Rebecca Falk and they had 8 ehihlren, but 2 of whom are living: Sarah, who married Joab Mershon, and Lydia, now the wife of Dr. Clevinger.

W.a. D'liv')rt'i, deceased, w.is born in Chester county. Pa., in 1794 ; came to Ohio in 1814, where he was a merchant and was married; in 1837 he came and settled first in Vermont tp., following the mercantile business until 1842, and then until 1847 he followed flatboating to New Orleans. He died :n 1863 and was buried in Vermont cemetery.

David T. Dohbins, agriculturist, w:\s born in this tp. in 1849, a son of the next mentioned. He owns and occupies the old homestead on sk;. 1, which is one of the best in the county.

John C. Dobbins, a w'ell-known pioneer and farmer, was born in Clermont county, O., in 1811; was a Captain in the Black Hawk war; in 1835 ninrried Harriet A. Miller, and next year he emigrated to this tp. and occupied an 80-aere lot of "raw" prairie, which his father had purchased and given him; went diligently to work and in course of time obtained possession of 500 acres, but he has since given each of his children 120 acres. He reserves 50 acres as a donation to churches. His children were and are : Alexander, who died at Nashville in the late war; Franklin, killed at the battle of Wahatchie Bri<lge; Robert and Calvin, who enlisted in Co. H, 28th 111., and Co. D, 151st 111.; and David T., above mentioned.

R. N. Dobbins, farmer, sec. 2 ; P. O., Ipava ; born in Clermont Co., O., in 1814; his father, Robert B., was a native of Va., moved to South Carolina, and after several years back to Va., where he received a collegiate education and became a Presbyterian minister; was an Abolitionist; in 1814 he and his young wife came to Ohio on horseback, bringing all their possessions with them ; in 1835 they came to Vermont, where he purchased over a section of land; he died in 1854; Mrs. D. died in Nov., 1847. Robert N., in his 26th year, in this tp., married Martha Jane Erving, daughter of James Erving, of Lancaster, Pa.

Oscar Easley, farmer and mill owner, sec. 26; P. O., Vermont; was born in Freeport, Harrison Co., O., in 1835; his father, Isaac Easley, a native of Ohio, married Mary Norris, and they became the parents of 11 children; in 1836 they emigrated to this tp., settling upon 120 acres of wild land, and in a round-log cabin, when wolves and panthers abounded here ; Mr. Easley died in 18G1 ; Mrs. E. died in 1859. Oscar received a good education; when the war broke out he enlisted in Co. F, 84th 111. Inf.; was in the battles of Chickamauga. Stone River, Rcsaca, etc. ; honorably discharged in 1865; for 12 years has owned a good saw-mill. In 1859 he married Amy Freeman, daughter of Marshall Freeman, deceased. Children : Marshall, Perry, Fred,' Lillie and Norris.

Henry Ellison, farmer, sec. 22 ; P. O., Vermont ; born Dec. 25, 1841, in Lancashire, Eng. ; his parents were Wm. and Ann (Blandon) Ellison, who emigrated to America when Henry was a boy, with 6 children altogether, 4 of whom are living, all in Vermont tp. ; they first located in Ohio, where he remained for 6 years, then to Jefferson Co., where he stayed 3 years, and in the spring of 1852 he settled in this tp. ; they moved into McDonough Co., where Mr. E. died; Mrs. E. died at the age of 78. Henry has remained in this tp. ; in 1866 he married Miss Rebecca, daughter of Allen Stewart, of Ohio, and thev have had two children, Charles and George. Mrs. E. died Aug. 26, 1878.

John Ellison, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 22 ; P. O., Vermont ; was born in Lancashire, Eng., in 1835; his parents are referred to in the above sketch ; he passed his boyhood and youth in Ohio, where he received a liberal education ; Feb. 15, 1860, he married Miss Cinah Sidwell, daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth Sidwell, the former of M iryland and the latter of Peun. ; their children are William, Edward, Thomas, Frank and Elizabeth.

Samuel Etnier, farmer, was born in Huntingdon Co., Pa., June 24, 1804. Martin Etnier, his father, was born near Boonesborough, Md., was a soldier under George \\'ashington, afterward married Elizabeth Proetonia and had 10 children, Samuel being the youngest. Jn the 21st year of his age, the latter married Elizabeth Harker, a daughter of Joseph Harker, of Penn. ; spent 4 years in Ohio running a saw-mill, then 8 or 9 years in Penn., then near Macomb, 111., and iiuully settled on a I sec. of raw prairie near Ipava. Mrs- 15- died July 19, 1878. Mr. E.'s present wife was Miss Mary Good, a native of Ohio.

Bell Fleming, farmer, sec. 3; P. O., Ipava. Parents, John and Elizabeth F., the former a native of L-eland, who came to New Brunswick in his 10th year, and ultimately to this county, where in 1848 he married Elizabeth Kitt, purchased 80 acres of land and settled down to farming;, commencing poor but now having 360 acres of valuable land and ranking among the leading farmers of the tp. Mrs. F. died in 1<S70. Bell was born in 1853, attended a business college, and in 1878 married a daughter of Eben Freeman, of this tp.

Lewis Flcuri/, farmer and merchant, sec. 17; P. O., Vermont; was born in Penn., near Pliiladelphia, in 1809; his father, Pierre Flcurv, emigrated from France to that place in 1798, "^was a brilliant, well educated man, and private secretary to the French minister, Petrie ; married Elizabeth Sanford in Virginia, by whom he had 6 children ; Lewis, the eldest son, grew to manhood in Washington, learned the carpenter's trade, emigrated to Ross Co., Ohio, in 1828, married Mary daughter of Coonrod Zimmerman, and their children are 7, viz: Eugene, born in Kingston, Ross Co., O., Feb. 4, 1839; Mary E., born in Kingston Sept. 8, 1838, died Feb. 16, 1841; Adelaide, born Sept. 16, 1840, at the same place, died July 27, 1846; Eliza J., born Feb. 16, 1842, same place, and married D.ivid Bell; Jiilia, born Oct. 16, 1843, and married Robert Bailey; Estelle, born July 18, 1844, in Ross Co.; Adeline, born Aug. 7, 1847, in Fulton Co.; Edgar, born Dec. 7, 1848, in Fulton Co.; Belle, born A])ril 1, 1853, in same countv ; and Ella, born in 1857. Eugene enlisted in Co. H, 65th 111. Inf.,' May 19, 1862.

Cyrus F. Fordyce, farmer, sec. 6 ; P. O., Table Grove ; was born in Green Co., Pa., in 1807; lived in Ohio a few years, and in 1828 came to Fulton Co. ; in Ohio again during the deep snow ; returned to this county in 18.31 ; saw hard times; in 1835 he married Parmelia Hughes, daughter of George Hughes, of Farmers' tp., and he has 3 children living, - John, George and Mary.

John F, Fordyce, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 7 ; P. C, Table Grove; was born in Fulton county in 1836; reared amid pioneer associations; enlisted in Co. F, 183d 111. Inf.; honorably discharged after 8 months' service; Sept. 25, 1860, married Minerva I. Hagans, daughter of Campbell Hagans, of Eldorado tp., McDonough Co. ; their children are, Clara, Henry (dee.), Effie, Frank, Sherman, Bruce, Charles and Freeman. Mr. Fordyce has taught school some and was once a business man in Table Grove.

Daniel Frazler, farmer, sec. 26; P. O., Vermont ; was born in Belmont, Co., Ohio, in 1825; his father, Wm. Frazier, was born in North Carolina, but moved while young to Ohio, where he married Miss Anna Ross; of this marriage 12 children were born, of whom 8 are living. Daniel, the fifth of these, was married in Noble Co., O., in 1850 to Miss Nancy Stoneking, by whom he has 5 children, two have died. Sarah A. married S. Brown, of Astoria tp. ; Wm., John and Lucy (twins), and Mary B. reside at home.

Reuben Frazier, farmer, sec. 34; P. O., Vermont; born in Bel- -mont Co., O., in 1827. His father, Wm. F., was a North Carolinian, who emigrated to Ohio in early day. Reuben married, in

Ohio, Mary E. Swan, daughter of John and Elizabeth S., by whom he had 10 children, 5 now living, - Rebecca C, Daniel S., Emma J., Nancy E. and Anna. In 1856 he came to this count v. Mrs. F. died July 19, 1871 ; Oct. 26, 1872, Mr. F. married Mellnda Derry, daughter of Solomon Derry, and had one child. In 1864 Mr. Frazier enlisted in Co. H, 12th 111. Inf., and was in the battle of Kingston, N. C.

Ebenezer Freeman, agriculturist, sec. 35 ; P. O., Vermont. Marshall G. Freeman (father of Ebenezer) was a native of the Bay State, learned shoe-making while young; moved to Providence, R. I., where he married Europa Stafford, by whom he had 11 children. In early days he emigrated to Isabel township, this county, and in company with Samuel Hackelton erected a grist-mill on Spoon river, but it was swept away by a freshet. The next year he sent for his family. In 1835 he entered Government land on section 35, Vermont townshij), and proceeded according to the necessities and characteristics of the times to make a home. He succeeded, as nearly all the sturdy pioneers have done, in this domestic enterprise, and he died Sept. 28, 1859, leaving a good farm. Mrs. F. is still in this world, 71 years old. Ebenezer married Anna Nelson in his 23d year, and they have had 9 children : Marvil, Nelson, Corrilla, Marshall, Mary, Charles, Laura, Lucy and Arthur.

W. P. Green, contractor, builder and chair-maker, Vermont, was born in Fayette county. Pa., in 1822; learned his trade in that State; in 1842 married Miss Eliza, daughter of Bowell Brownfield, of that county; enlisted in Co. G, 85th Regt. Pa. Vol., and participated in many noted battles, as Williamsburg, Fair Oaks, etc.; was honorably discharged in 1864; remained at his old home until 1^68, when he emigrated to Wayne county. 111., and two years later to this county. He guarantees all his work ; headquarters at the factory on Main street.

Willis Hager, iiirmor, stock-raiser and shipjier, sec. 13; P. O., Ipava. This gentleman is well known as a business man, liberal and industrious. He is engaged extensively in shipj)ing.

Wilson Ha ge r, fiivmcr and stock-raiser, sec. 12; P. O., Ipava; was born in Belmont county, O., in 1827, son of Jacob Hager, an Ohio farmer who died many years ago, and whose widow dietl in Vermont township more recently. The subject of this paragraph grew up in his western home, and in 1871 married Martha Middleton, daughter of John and ^Lartha Middleton. Katy is their only child. In this townshij) and McDonough county Mr. H. owns 500 acres of land ; is an extensive dealer in stock.

John Hall, farmer, sec. 34; P. O., Vermont ; born in Belmont Co., O., in 1816; married Mary Ann, daughter of Daniel Knock, by whom he has 5 children. In 1839 he came to Vermont tp., where he has since lived ; was a cooper by trade but is now a farmer. One day, when out in the woods cutting hoop-poles, Mr.

Hall heard his dog b;\rkinga little way off, and going to the spot he found that the dog had treed a large catamount. On his arrival the cat jumped down, aiming to attack the dog, but failed at the first effort. However he turned upon the dog and would have killed him had not Mr. Hall at that juncture run up to them, and given the wild animal a few well directed blows with his hatchet, and killed him.

Edward Hamer, merchant and firmer, was born in Delaware Co., Pa., Sept. 30, 1816; in 1829 his parents moved to Chester Co., where he learned the tailor's trade and remained until 1854, when he emigrated to Vermont, 111., where he has since continued in business. In all he has kept store nearly 40 years. In Chester Co., Pa., Aug., 1860, he married Miss A. A. Morris, and they have two daughters, - S. M. and M. H. Mr. Hamer is a Republican and has held several local offices: is not a member of any Church or society. He is a promineut business man who has won a high reputation.

Patterson Hamer, merchant, was born and reared in Eastern Pennsylvania, where he taught school, worked on a farm and learned the tailor's trade. His cousin Edward (noticed above) assisted him in his educational career, and they subsequently entered the drygoods and grocerv business in partnership, excluding the retail of liquors. Altliough many predicted their defeat, they succeeded, and continued to prosper for 14 years, while many other business firms in their community failed. In 1854 they came to Vermont and purchased the building they now occuj)y, besides several town lots, and other business property. They are also joint owners of a valuable firm, and have done much toward the material advancement of the village of their choice. Patterson has declined all public office except that of Supervisor or other local positions. He has always been opj)osed to slavery, and in the days of its existence he aided many a fugitive. In the late war he contributed largely to its prosecution, hoping thereby the sooner to end it.

Col. Thomas Hamer was born in Union Co., Pa., in 1818. His father, James Hamer, was born in 1785, also in Pa., and he was the son of Jam?s H uner, of Scotland, who settled in Northumberland Co. prior to the Revolutionary war, and was elected the first Sheriff of that county. He married Elizabeth Lyon and had 8 children, the eldest of whom was James. James H, was a farmer, settled in Vermont, 111., in 1845, and died there. He was a very generous man. Col. Thomas Hamer received a thorough education in his youth, besides being brought up at farm work ; clerked in a drygoods and grocery store for several years; in 1847 was employed as clerk by Joab Mershon for two years, then entered partnership with Jas. A. Russell and Richard Johnson in the drv-ffoods line, and prospered until the spring of 1851, when Jack Matheny jiiundered the store and set fire to the building, entailing a total loss of $8,000. He was then in partnership with E. & P. Hamer until 1861, wdien the war broke out, and he organized Cos. B and F, 84th 111. Inf., and was commissioned Maj(tr. He beat Bragg in a race to Louisville, Kv., and afterward was engaged in pursuit of the same rebel general in a race for Nashville; was wounded at the battle of Stone River, but next day after receiving the wound he commanded so valiantlv that his men gave him a gold watch as a testimonial of his enthusiasm; his wound, however, compelled him to resign. He came home and finally recovered. In 18G4 he entered mercantile business, which he followed until 1876, when he sold out to Ayres & Whitnev. He has been Supervisor, and has been nominated three different times for the Legislature by the Republican party, drawing the full vote; has been delegate to every Republican countv convention held since he came into the State ; and was elected President of the annual Army Reunion at Springfield. In 1850 he married Harriet E. Johnson, daughter of Franklin Johnson, a native of New York. Has had 0 children : two are living now, namely, Wylie and Lee Ray.

James Harmon, farmer, sec. 8; P. O., Vermont ; was born in Penn., in 1815, son of James Harmon, sr., a farmer, and Margaret (Xeelev) ; he first learned the plasterer's trade, which he followed 37 vears ; married Martha Keene, who died, leaving 4 children, - Calvin, Margaret, James and Isabel. In 1849 Mr. H. settled in this tp. In 1860 he married Taey Hagar, by whom he has one child, Nancy.

Jacobs. Harper, miller, was born in Jefferson Co., ()., Feb. 14, 1830. His father, Joseph Harper, was a carpenter, a native of Pa., and died when Jacob was yet a lad. The latter learned to be a blacksmith, married Myrtila Wasson, of Pa., had 5 children, 3 of whom are living, - Indiana, Montie and Dilla. In the spring of 1855 Mr. Harper settled in Vermont, workeil one year in the blacksmith sht)p of Geo. Durell, and then 8 years for T. F. Wisdom ; 186-2-6 he followed the business independently, then bought an interest in the steam grist-mill east of the public square; in 1869 he purchased an interest in the City Mills, in partnership with Jesse Bogue.

Alfred Hart, cabinet manufacturer and dealer, was l)orn in Kent, Eng!, in 1817. His father, Wm. Hart, was a paper-maker, who died in England, leaving several children, Alfred, the eldest, received a liberal education and early rendered himself proficient in the trade of cabinet-maker. In 1847 he married Sarah Hattan, by whom he had 6 children, 3 of whom are living, - Alfred, Charlotte and Louisa. In 1849 Mr. Hart came to America and located in Vermont the following spring, since which time he has pursued his vocation.

Aaron Hickle, deceased, was born in Virginia, bnt was taken to Ohio when he was 7 years of age, where he grew to manhood and married Sarah Stanhope, daughter of George and Mary Stanhope, of New Jersey. In 1848 he came to Vermont tp., and died in 1«m. He left a wife and 8 children: Rebecca, who died Aug, 27, 1874; George, who married Miss Parmelia Wilson and resides in this tp. ;

Eliza, who married John Brown and resides also in this tp.; Samantha, who married eJohn Mills and resides in Astoria tp. ; Harriet, who married Wm. Gr^uly and resides in Astoria; John, who married Ao;nes Diehl and lives in Vermont tp. ; Sigourney, who married Elisha Elliot and lives in Woodland tp. ; and Cassius A., who dwells on the old homestead.

Thomas Holmes, farmer and stoek-raiser, sec. 3 ; P. O., Ipava ; was born in Washington (now Marion) Co., Ky., Nov. 7, 1813. His father, Nathan Holmes, was also a native of KentueUy, a farmer, who married Mary Miller, of Ky. In 1833 the family came to Farmers' township. Dec. 1, 1836, Mr. Thos. Holmes married Rachel Derry, danghter of John Derry, of Va. In the fall of 1836 he bnilt a cabin, and continned to labor indnstriously and economically until he is now a wealthy man. His present fine residence was buit in I860. He now owns 500 acres of valuable land. He has had 10 children, 8 living now: Mary, who married Samuel Miner and now lives in Kansas; Sarah, now the wife of Thomas Matthews in Nebraska; Josephine A., the wife of Harrison Edie; William, who married Miss Battles and after her decease. Miss Mary Stoops; Franklin, who married Sarah Hipsley; Charles, who resides in Vermont; Edward, still at the old homstead. Thomas E., a grand-son, also lives at the homestead.

Wm. H. Holmes, farmer, sec. 3; P. O., Vermont; was born on the old homstead in this tp., in 1845, son of Thomas Holmes; pursued a business course of study at Lewistown ; on Christmas, 1867, he married Olive E. Battles, daughter of G. W. Battles, formerly a merchant of Ipava, but now a resident of California. Their only child is Edward B. Mrs. H. died Sept. 20, 1871. In 1873 Mr. H. married Sarah J. Stoops, daughter of Wm. and Keziah S., early settlers here. Of the latter marriage were born Wm. S., Gertrude F. and Olive M.

Ellis Hoopes, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 26; P. O., Vermont; is a native of Chester Co., Pa., born in 1804; his father was also a Pennsvlvanian and a school-teacher, married Elizabeth Kino; and had 9 children, the eldest but one of whom is Ellis, jr. The family moved to Ohio about 1813, where Ellis was educated and learned carpentering; was naturally very skillful ; in 1826 he married Miss Grace Foulk, daughter of Judith and Sarah F., natives of Bucks Co., Pa.; in 1841 he came to Vermont tp., where he has since resided, making for himself a comfortable home. Julv 27, 1878, Mrs. H. was buried in Vermont cemetery.

S. F. Hoopes, manufacturer of and dealer in buggies and carriages, Vermont ; was born in Ohio in 1839; in 1841 his parents settled, with him, in Vermont tp. When 19 years old Silas F. commenced to learn his trade, proved extraordinary apt, and in 1859 entered partnership with his elder brother William. In the war he enlisted in the 3d 111. Cav., in the Musical Corps, or Regimental Band. He returned home and opened the large manufac-

Dr. A. L. Hoover, Vermont, was born in Wayne Co., Ind., in 1843. His father was John Hoover, a farmer, also a native of Indiana. Abraiiam L. was reared in his native county, and to obtain an education he had to earn money at 40 cents a day, chopping wood, making rails, etc., and taught school some. He studied medicine at Ann Arbor, Mich., at the University, and commenced practice at Baltimore (now New Haven), Mich. Here he married Delia J. Knotts, daughter of X. C. Knotts, of Pa., and they have one child. He spent 5 years at Eaton, Ind., and then came to Vermont, where he has established himself in a good practice. He takes special pride in his library, suj)j)lying himself with the latest valuable works and keeping up with the times.

H. »S, Jdcobs, Justice of the I'eace, was born in 1822 in Kentucky; his father, John Jacobs, was a native of old Virginia, a sailor, who had to discontinue his occupation prior to the war of 1812, owing to the cessation of commerce and the troubles which led to the war. He moved to Kentuckv in 1810, married Nancv Gwinn, by whom he had 12 children. Harrison S., the 5th child, attained his 12th year, when his parents moved with him to Mis- .souri ; at the age of 18 he went to St. Louis, learned the chairmaker's trade, married Miss ]M. W. Coolidge, and in 1849 settled in Astoria, continuing the business of chair-making 4 years. In 1870 he was ekcted Justice of the Peace for the tp. of Vermont, in which capacity he has given great satisfaction.

John Kellij, farmer, sec. 8 ; P. O., Table Grove; born in Vermont township, Oct. 14, 1837. His father, Ebenezer Kelly was a Kentucky farmer, who married Susan Hayes and had 11 children. In 1834 the family emigrated to this township, and Mr. K. built his own and many other cabins; in later years he became sucessful in the more modern system of architecture. He died in 1874, and ^Irs. K. is still living, a resident of ^"ermont. Five of their children survive: Elizabeth, who married John Hamer, of Vermont ; John, who married Sarah A. Hodgen ; Martha, who married Jean Moore, resides in Nebraska ; Mary, who is married and lives in Farmers' township ; and Carr, who married Ella Simmons and resides in Vermont.

Henry Kirkhridc, keeper of livery and feed stable, Vermont, the oldest and most successful institution of the kind ever established in the })lace. He commenced business prior to the building of the C, B. c^ (i. Railroad to this point, and by enterprise, perseverance and integrity he has outstripped all his competitors, many of them having started in the race and "got left." Mr. K. of course keeps a first-class line of carriages and stock.

half a dollar, and now has a fine 250-acrc farm with a handsome brick residence upon it, - all from his energy and economy. He was born in New Jersey in IS'.U) ; his parents were Jonathan and Elizabeth Koons ; he learned the carpenter and joiner's trade, but afterward worked 3 years on a farm in Pennsylvania ; then, in 1848, he emigrated to Ipava ; in 1857 he married Margaret Kost ; in 1862 he enlisted in Co. B., 84th lU. Tnf ; returned to his farm, on which he has prospered ever since. He was among the first to adopt tile draining, and now has 1,900 rods of 3 and 4-inch tiling on his farm. His dwelling is possibly the finest in the county. He has but one child, Frank, born in this county in 1859, who is a natural artist.

Abraham Koi-tt, agriculturist, sec. 11 ; P. O., Ipava ; born in Penn. in 1821, son of John Kost ; was 12 years old when the familv emigrated with him to Ohio; there he received a liberal education, and in 1842 married Mary Walker, daughter of Jesse W., by whom he has had 4 children ; settled in Astoria in an early day, buying a piece of land, and after a residence there of 5 years he moved into Vermont tp. He has had 4 children ; Julia Ann, who married, Jabez Beers; Elizabeth, n-ho first married James Koons, and, after his death in the army, R. S. Thomas; William and Catharine, who married James Hayes.

W. F. Kost, firmer, sec. 12; P. O., Tpava ; born in Fulton county; is a young, enterprising farmer; was brought up amid pioneer surroundings and influences, and inured to industrious habits.

I). W. Lambert, farmer, sec. 16; P. O., Vermont; was born in Knox Co., O., in 1844, the second son of Francis \j. and Mary M. Lambert. Francis L. was a soldier and musician in the Mexican war, a member of the 2d Ohio regt. ; in the late war he was elected Captain of Co. I, 95th Ohio; in 1876 he came to Illinois and soon after died. D. W. came to Illinois in 1860; in 1861 he enlisted in Co. L., 7th 111., Cav. ; in 1864 re-elisted as Sergeant; during the war he was in 27 battles. He also participated in Grierson's raid, riding 800 miles in 12 days. In 1878 he settled in this tp., married Miss Sarah A. Barron, and they had one child. Myrtle, who was born in Feb., 1874, and died the following May. In Dec, 1877, Mr. L. was married (a second time) to Phcebe J. Beatty, and they have one child.

Brinton Levis was born Dec. 19, 1805, in Chester Co., Pa., passed his youth there, except 6 years on the sea as a sailor; obtained a systematic education withal; in 1828 he married Phcebe Ann, daughter of Wm. Ring, and they had 11 children, only 5 of whom now survive, namely: William, who married Miss Harriet Cox; Joseph, who married Amanda Smith ; Rebecca, who married Stephen Bogue; Sarah J., who married Caleb Brinton, and Mary F., who is still at the old homestead. Mr. Lewis served in the army during the Mexican war, and about 1850 he settled in this tp. and has followed farming and teaching school. He was in all the battles in the vallev near the city of Mexico, as Chapultepcc, Churiibiisco, Coutrera;:;, Molino del Rev, etc., two of these being the most severe of the campaign. Always votes the straight Democratic ticket.

Benjamin yiar^haU, farmer, sec. 32 ; P. O., Vermont ; was born in Indiana Co., Pa., Nov. 6, 1830, son of Walter Marshall, also a native of Pa., and a farmer, who- married Mary Purnell and had 7 children; Benjamin, the eldest, grew to manhood in Pennsylvania, receiving a liberal education, married Margaret Duncan, and had 7 children, - 6 of whom are living, - Hadillah, Louisa, . Wm. H., Scott (dec.), Stewart, Mary and Emma. May 31, 1855, he located in this tp., purchasing 40 acres of land, where he now has an excellent orchard and vineyard ; in the latter are a thousand vines. He is pretty generally ahead, also in quality of live stock and poultry.

./. .S. Marshall, farmer ; P. O., Ipava ; born in Jefferson Co., O., in 181(3; in 1823 his father, Wm. Marshall, died; he was brought up to farm labor and strict habits of economy and perseverance, and is now credited with being the wealthiest citizen in Vermont tp.

Wm. Marshall, former and stock-raiser, sec. 22 ; P. O., Vermont; born in Harrison Co., O., in 1823. His father, of the same name, was a native of Pa., moved when young to Ohio, followed teaming, manv times going over the mountains to Baltimore; married Miss Sarah Marshall, of Ohio. Of the four children two are living, John S. and Wm. (Margaret and Thomas deceased). Wm., jr., was but 13 years old when his father died (in 1835), and he then accompanied his mother and brother to this tp. Wra. commenced going to school at the age of 16, in an old-fashioned log schoolhouse characteristic of the times. In 1851 he married Charlotte Loomis, daughter of Russell G. L., and they have had G children, only 2 of whom arc living, - Ross E. and Alice J.

Thomas Maxwell, farmer; P. O., Ipava. This gentleman was born in Ohio in 1847; in 1856 he became a resident of Vermont t])., where he rents 150 acres of land. In 1874 he married Miss Lovina Boozle. They have one child living, - Perry.

Andrew E. McCartney, deceased, was a native of Kentucky. His father, James McC, was from Virginia. Andrew E. was reared on a farm; in 1839 he emigrated to Vermont tp. Mrs. McC. is still living. They had 11 children, 9 of whom are yet living: John A., Andrew E. (on the homestead), Rachel E., Benj. F., Addison P., John H. (married Belle Underwood), Mattie I. (married Melvin T. Wilson) and Delilah C.

Wm. Mr Cart I/, farmer, sec. 27; P. O., Vermont; was born in Frederick Co., Va., near Winchester, in 1811. His fiither, John McC, was born in Frederick Co., Md., a farmer, and married Hannah Nevitt, of Va., by whom he had 8 children. Wm., the eldest, settled in Belmont Co., O., in an early day and followed forming; in 1838 he married Susannah Derry, in Coshocton Co., daughter of Wm. Derry, of Va., and had 11 children, only five of whom now

Columhux McCiirrh/, physician and suro;eon, Vermont, was born in McDonoujjh Co., 111., iii 1844. His father, Alex. xMcC, a miller, was born in Virginia, Init emigrated to McDonough Co. in an early day; in 1843 he married Eliza Renner ; in 1847 he settled in Vermont, where he followed his vocation until his death in 1851 ; his widow died in 1875. The only survivor of the familv is the subject of this sketch, who thoroughly educated himself at the common schools, studied medicine under Drs. Taylor & Clark, and subsequently graduated at the Eclectic Medical Institute in Cincinnati, O. In 1873 he married Caroline Freeman, daughter of Marshall Freeman, a ])ioneer. Dr. McC. is regarded as both learned and skilled in his profession.

Wm. McCunUj, deceased, a well and favorably known pioneer, was born in Virginia in 1808; the name of his lirst Avife we were not able to obtain ; his second wife was a Miss Eliza Elliot, born in Ohio; in 1832 he settled in Fulton Co., 111., as a farmer, but soon resumed his trade of harness-maker; he died in 1870, leaving a wife and the following children: Joseph and Martin, in California; Jane, in Bushnell ; Mary, Maggie, Henrietta, ^\'illianl and J. R., all in Vermont. The last mentioned married Elizabeth Harris, of Cass Co., and has one child, Tony E.

Wm. Mcllor, attorney at law, is a native of Manchester, Eng., born in 1830; having acquired a liberal education, at the age of 17 he came to America and located in Eldorado tj)., McDonough Co., 111. ; labored hard at farm work for a season, and then went to Vermont and clerked in Stevens & Winans' dry-goods store for 4 years, then was a member of the firm of Heizer & Co., dry-goods dealers, until the financial panic of 1857; then traveled in the South as salesman of nursery stock until the spring of 18()1, when he returned to Vermont and warned the j)eople in a public speech what the South intended to do, but was little heeded. In 1802 he joined the 103d 111. Inf , was unanimously elected 2d Lieut, of (^o. F., then (Oct. 18, '62) 1st Eieut. and Regt. Q. M., which })<)sition he retained until the war closed. April 2, 1804, he was incarcerated in the rebel prison at Atlanta, then 3 weeks at Andersonville, then to Macon, Savannah and Charleston, where, Nov. 15, 1804, he was exchanged. Taking two months in Annaj)olis, Md., and a short time at home in Vermont to recover health, he was assigned to Benton Barracks, Mo., as Q. M., and May 15, 1865, he was honorably discharged. Before the war he had read law, and during his life he has been Supervisor, Tp. Collector, Clerk, etc. In 1847 he married Charlotte Cowan, in England, and has three children, - George, Robert and I^uella.

native of Penn., married Deborah Brown and had 10 children, Isaac being the eldest son. The latter married Jane Kinsev, daughter of John Kiusey, and they had 4 children, - Mary E., Wm., John and Esther J. Mrs. M. died in 1849, and the same year Mr. M. married Hannah J. Thompson, and they had 8 children. In 1864*Mr. M. emigrated with his family to this tp.

Elmer Meredith, farmer, sec. 12; P. O,, Ipava. Born in Morrow Co., O., Feb. 18, 18-52. Benjamin Meredith, his father, was also an Ohioan, and a physician and surgeon. Elmer married Catherine, daughter of Daniel Lvbarger, an old settler here, and thev have 3 children, - Alta B., Lillian and William. In 1873 Mr. M. purchased his present farm.

Henry Mershon, one of the leading merchants of the county, of the firm of J. & H. Mershon, the senior being his father. Henry is a native of this county, has been reared amid pioneer associations, and has by his integrity of character and capacity won a high place in the esteem of his fellow citizens. Their stock of goods is always selected with great care, so that in the quality of their goods as well as in low price, etc., they are not surpassed.

./. ik H. Mershon, dealers in dry -goods, Vermont. Among the mercantile houses of Vermont undoubtedly the most extensive is that ofJoaband Henry Mershon ; their goods are selected with great care, are all in style and durable. As early as 1842 the senior partner of this firm began mercantile business in this place on Main street, and steady prosperity so attended him that he has enlarged and improved his building from time to time, keeping fully up with the demands of the community. He also carries on a banking business, where his integrity and business qualifications have been demonstrated to the satisfaction of the public.

Joab Mershon, banker and merchant, is one of the leading business men of Fulton Co., a position he has obtained purely by merit. Years ago he commenced in Vermont with no capital but that of the mind and heart, which, however, was considerable. An abiding faith in the future prosperity of this township and county, joined with industry, mental capacity and honesty has enabled him to-day to rank among the highest in this section of the country.

Martin Miles, proprietor of the meat market, Vermont, was bom in McDonough Co., 111., in 1837 ; came to Vermont about 1870, and in 1877 entered his present business. He married Melissa Husted in McDonough Co., and has two daughters and one son.

Abner Miller, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 23 ; P. O., Vermont ; was bom in Noble county, O., in 1836; his father, Stephen Miller, was also a native of the Buckeye State, where he married Phcebe Ross and had o children, - Elijah, Amos, Abner, Mary J. and Sarah A. In 1855 the family moved to this tp. and Mr. M. died in Aug., 1878 : Mrs. M. is still living, upward of 73 years old : Abner was in his 18th year at the immigration to this place; in 1859 he married Ethelminda Walker, daughter of Jesse Walker, who settled in

Abraham Miller, farmer, sec. 2 ; P. O., Ipava ; was bom in Pa., in 1803; his parents were Abraham and Cathf rine f Bendf-r; Miller, the former an agriculturist, wIkj moved to Ohio in I8I0 and died in 1827, in Clermont Co., that State; the latter migrated to Vermont tp. in 1836 and died in 1842. Abraham, the younger, grew to manhood in Ohio, where he married Miss Mary G., daughter of Robert Dobbins, and has had since the following-named children : PLliza J., who married John Cadwallader and resides in Bushnell township, McDonough Co.; Mar)', who married Cyras Bartholomew, and after his decease John Ross ; Rol>ert M., who married Man*' Cadwallader, and after her decf-a-e Miss Sarah Ackerson ; and Amanda Ann, who married Jesse Wiley, of Hancock Co. Robert M. was severely wounded at the battle of Murfreesborough.

Jacob Miller, farmer, sec. 2; P. O., Ipava; was born in Penn. in 1814; in I8I0 the family moved to Ohio; in 1836 Mr. M. emigrated to Vermont township; in 1839 he married Amanda, daughter of Rev. Robert Dobbins, a Presbyterian minister, and the second settler on the prairie in this township. These are the children: Philetus, who was killed in 1863 by a horse running away; Mart' C. ; Eliza M. ; and Jane C, who married Charles Hixon, of this county. Mr. and Mrs. M. relate many interesting reminiscences of pioneer times.

Joseph Miller, retired farmer, sec. 10; P.O., Vermont. Abraham Miller, his father, is above alluded to. Mr. Joseph Miller wa.s bom in Clermont county, O., Nov. 10, 1817; in the spring of 1836 he settled on "Ipava Prairie," working as a farm hand. In 1844 he married Jane Stoops, daughter of Michael Stoops, of Ohio, and they have had 6 children, 3 of whom are living, - Michael S., John W. and Laura Leoni, - and are in this county.

Charles R. Morgan, farmer and fruit-grower, sec. 6 ; born in I80I, in Fulton county, on the old homestead of his parents, Wm. and Esther Morgan, whose biographies are next given.

Wm. Morgan, deceased, was born near Saratoga Springs, N. Y.; married Hannah Wheeler and had 3 children ; then married Esther Walworth; in 1832 he moved to Ft. Dearborn, 111. (now Chicago), when there was but one grocery store there ; soon afterward he moved to Vermont township. He died, leaving to the care of his wife 7 children. Peter married Miss Martha Crow and resides at Farraington ; Walter married Mary Decamppes (?), Diamond City, Montana, and Elsie is deceased. Of the second marriage were born Hannah, who married Geo. Fike and resides at Table Grove ; Jam^s H., who first married Mary Harmon, and afterward Alice Markham, now residing at Bardolph ; Lydia, who married Wm. Haller and resides in Wayne county, Iowa; Jacob W., who married Lydia

Hiram A. Pickering, farmer, sec. 15; P. O., Vermont; was born in Harrison Co., O., in 1836, son of Hiram Pickerinjr, a native of the Old Dominion, who moved to Ohio in early day and married Helena McXamee, Hiram grew to manhood in Ohio and married Miss Mary Ann, daughter of Abel Pickering, of Va. In A])ril, 1860, he came and settled in Farmers' tp. ; in 1852 he removed to Vermont tp. His children are Susannah, Elva, Cordelia, Flora, Franklin, Oscar and Ellen.

Geo. \V. Powell, flirmer, sec. 4, was born in Pickaway Co., O., in 1821, lived during his youth in ;Menard Co., 111., obtaining a fair education ; then labored as a farm hand about two years in Whitesides Co., III. ; then in Fulton Co. awhile in the same capacity. In 1850 he bought 100 acres of unimproved land ; in 1852 he married Elizabeth Abernathy, daughter of Charles A., one of the older pioneers of the county. He worked hard, managed well, bought more land and continued to prosper until the present time. Milem and Albert are his children.

Joseph D. Powell, flirmer and stock-raiser, sec. 4 ; P. O., Table Grove; born in Pickaway Co., 0.,in 1827. His father, Samuel P., was born in Virginia, moved first to Kentucky, then to Ohio, where he married Elizabeth Alptire, by whom he had 12 children, Joseph being the voungest but one ; the familv emigrated tti Menard Co., 111., in the fjill of 1827; Mr. Samuel P. dealt in stock, increased his property, and was Road Commissioner for the Springfield and Havana road; he died in 1835. Mrs. P. died in 1856. Joseph settled in this county in his 18th year; in 1849 he married Caroline Baughman, daughter of Daniel B., a Virginian. He now owns 480 acres of land and a valuable farm residence. He has withal been correspondingly generous, contributing largely to Abingdon College, Knox Co., and to the construction of the Rushville branch of the C, B. & Q. R. R.

Win. Prorine, miller, was born in Clark Co., Ind., a son of A\ ra. and Mary Provine. Wm. P., sen., was a native of Tennessee, but early came to Kentucky, where he married Mary Buchanan, and in 1803 emigrated to Indiana where he was county surveyor. William, in 1836, settled in Macomb, 111., where he worked three years at his trade as cal)inet-maker. In 1838 he married Paulina Scott, daughter of Martin Scott, of Ky. In 1847 he moved to Vermont and engaged in wool-carding fora short time, and then for 10 years he was'connccted with Isaac Witchell and Jesse Burr in the building and running of a saw-mill ; then he was a merchant at Abingdon a short time, then back to Vermont, and in ccunpany with Stevens & Winans remodeled and ran the Excelsior Mills (now the Monitor). In 1858 he went to Tennessee, 111., then to Bushnell, then back to Vermont, then assisted in building the flouring mill at Astoria now owned by Wm. Kost. Of the 11 children born to him 7 are living.

Win. Ranl-in, retired farmer, Vermont ; was born in York Co., Pa., May 10, ISOG, son of John and Martha Rankin, who moved to Jefferson Co., O., when AVm. was in his 7th year; the kitter worked a short time as a miller; he married Miss Sarali, danghter of Robert and Martha fiercer, and they have had 13 ehildren. In 1847 the family settled in this township, near where Vermont now is; some years afterward he bought 35 aeres of land, which he has subsequently increased to a much greater amount and is now in affluence. Children - John, Rhodes, Jane (dec), ^lartha, who married Charles Branson, of Woodland tp., Olive (?) A., who married Wm. Hall; Alice, who married Henry Taylor, Emily (dec.), Julia A. (dee.), James (dec.) and Charles D.

Elias Ring was born in Chester Co., Penn., in 1831, where he received a liberal education and resided the greater portion of his life in Vermont tj). ; in 1872 he married INIattie M., daughter of Henry Bailey, of Belmont Co., O. ; in 1873 he purchased the town property he now owns, including the millinery establishment presided over by Mrs. Ring, and the wagon shops of Adams & Sexton, and he rents also the photograph gallery of Samuel Murphy. Mrs. R.'s millinery business is unequaled in Vermont.

Joseph RobinHon, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 1 ; P. O., Ipava. Thomas Robinson, his father, was a native of Penn., a farmer, who married Anna Branson, of the same State, and of their 6 children Joseph was the eldest, being born in 1813 in Chester Co., Pa. The family emigrated to Fulton Co. in 1841, settling on a quarter of sec. *1, Vermont tp. The father died in his 60th year, and the mother survived him a year. In 1845 Joseph married Ruth Bogue, daughter of Jonathan B. Mary, the wife of Palmer Meredith, in this township, is their only child.

Elder J. B. Roi/df, minister of the Christian Church, was born in Franklin Co., O., Nov. 1, 1816; his father, Thos. Royal, was born in Manchester, Eng., and came to America near the beginning of the Revolutionary war and fought for American independence; he subsequently married a Miss Cooper in \'irginia, raised a family, and after her death he married Rebecca Matthews ; then moved to Franlin Co., O., where the second wife died, leaving one child ; he afterward married Ellen Brink, by whom he had one son, - Joseph, whose name heads this sketch. In 1824 they came to Sangamon Co., 111. Aug. 19, 1841, Joseph married Louisa Downing, in Sangamon Co., who died Jan. 8, 1853, in Vermont, 111., leaving 4 children (2 died young). Mr. and Mrs. Royal have 3 children, - Geo. A., Mollie M. ; and Eugene D., who married Emma S. Sexton. Joseph B. has formerly been pastor of the Christian Church here, and has been in the ministry 32 years.

engineering, then followed the sea for a time, then was civil engineer in Terre Haute, assisting in the survey, location and building of the Wabash Canal, in 1840 settled in Vermont, followed farming, and finally mercantile business. He married ^liss Elizabeth Johnson, of New York, in 1846. Of their 7 children 5 are living, viz: Frank, who married Miss Ida Sturges and lives in Peoria; Oscar H., a partner of his father in the drug business; Lula, Eva and Charley.