Carroll County, Indiana - Thllil^te to Our Dead Hekoe.s, 1882

Thllil^te to Our Dead Hekoe.s

CASION -AdOUESS of .JUDGE GoULD - REVIEW OF TUB SITUATION - THE N.vTioN'.s Peril and the People'.s Response - The Struggle and the Victory - Names of the Dead of Carroll County wiin Sacrificed their Lives in thk (.'ounthy-'s Defunse - The People's Offering.

( AN the 30th day of May, 1878, the people of Carroll County ^-' assembled in Delphi to pay their annual tribute to the memory of their departed heroes by decorating the graves of such with the fresh, blooming flowers of the enchanting spring-time. The exercises were participated in by the Logan Grays, under command of Capt. D. H. Chase, of Logansport. the Uniformed Patriarchs, and citizens generally. The remains of Corp. Boothroyd, the first of our soldiers killed in the war, were disinterred, placed in a neat case, and deposited in the corridor of the court house, early on the morning of Thiu-sday, May 30, The coffin was handsomely decorated with garlands of flowers, and the flag under which he fell, with a silver plate, also, bearing the following inscription: -'Corporal Dyson Boothroyd, Co. A, 9th Ind. Vols. (3 months service), killed July 13' 1861."

The exercises were conducted under the personal direction of Maj. James M. Watts, After appropriate music, a prayer was oifered by Rev. Dr. Robinson, when Judge Gould was introduced, and spoke as follows:

Ladies and Gentlemen: It is ouc- of the uoblest and grandest impulses of our hearts that prompts us to honor the memory of the good, the generous, and the brave. Prom the earliest ages, it has been customary to inscribe their names on monuments, and to strew their graves with garlands of affection. More especially is this tribute due to the memory of of those who have fallen in defense of their country. The death of the true and the heroic always awakens our grief and our sympathy; but when the spirit of self-sacrifice impels men to face danger and death, we find it impossible to withhold our admiration. Our noblest faculties are appealed to, and we strive to perpetuate the memory of the fallen martyrs to humanity. Pericles, tin- illustrious Athenian, whose genius shed immortal glory over his «h(.~r vhncsman-liiii h,-,- wl,,.^.

their sufferings, except that which the survivors decree to them. Let us not then withhold the tribute of our admiration for those who have toiled and suffered for our race, who have yielded themselves up in the spirit of self-sacrifice for others. No matter how honorable the place may be that one fills who bears the burdens of humanity, we yield him the involuntary homage of a grateful recognition of nobleness. If with true manhood he stands firm in the presence of danger and confronts death for the sake of others, he cannot die in vain; he is at once a hero and a martyr.

A nation with no high military traditions, no glorious legends, no lofty examples, no great national sentiment, no warm pulse of national honor, is like a body without the vitalizing presence of a brave and contented soul. The Grecian glory which, after two thotisand years gathers around ThermopyliB, is as bright and enduring now as it was the day Leonidas fell. I therefore deem it singularly appropriate that we should annually assemble ourselves together around these hallowed shrines of the nation, and while honoring the memory of our fallen heroes, refresh ourselves from the richly laden treasures of ournatiomal hi~i..ry in wliicli i> recorded our country's triumphs in arms, in arts, in lilrriiuK . ., i, u, .-. morals and government. Let us glance briefly at some nf ihr -ccnf- ;iiiil events which this day so vividly recalls to the minds of all. ]j:n.U ui er llu- sweep of the seasons, ar.d the flight of years, our thoughts irresistibly turn to those events which connect our loved ones who died that the land might live, and whose brave hearts were the precious holocausts so freely and zealously offered on the red altar of war for tlie protection and preservation of the rep\iblic.

which had been can-ied in .triuin|.:i ilir-irli .|,.. time dishonored and trailed in tli' iln-i ! tection beneath its ample folds. \\\i'- - u cleave your very history in twain, i.i . MiiiLin-li > the whole land the hot-bed of petty warring pc history with the crime of national suicide and disgrace.

ing .spies. 11 wa- iiic'ii. wii.ii that Government which had si selors betrayed, when gloom, hope ; it was then that the pil that pilot, who had been ch(»

Of the Twenty-fouith Indiana Battery Volunteers, were Heury E. Ewing, Jacob Shigley, Michael Igle, John Sherman.^acob Burwell. Abraham Farran. Adam Groppert. Jarob B. Oatn: " " ' "" dents of Carroll County, and those'who fell of Company A were William A. Andrew. John Beaver. Georo-e W. Creeson, Robert W. Davidson, Silas Davis, Robert B. Evans. John F. Fisher, John Freed, Alfred H. Hardy, WilUam O. Hartzog, William M. Malcolm, Ralph McMahan, Swain H. Nelson, John Newell, Wdliam H. Padgett. Wilson H. Pettit, Martin L. Ratter. Noah Shafer. John Shafer. Henry L. Smith. Archibald Smock, William G. Franklin and Carter Franklin. And of Company C, were John T. Andrews. James M. Ashba, Andrew W. Benson, David S. Casad. Samuel Clark, George Colli citizenship, and exempted them from the penal r\ .1 : God we now serve is not Jupiter, graspingtlic ivd li^l nor Mars, the avenging and triumphant, and \vi Iihim.i who fell. Matured manhood and undeveloped youth, for they were our country's brightest jewels.

Introductory

IN the preceding pages, it has been the purpose to generalize and classify the material so as to condense and arrange it under topical heads, and by that means, bring together, in connected narrative, as nearly a complete review of all the facts pertaining to the subject being discussed as opportunity and space would permit. By such a jirocess, the reader might be enabled, with less labor and research, to glean the information sought for, and pass then to examination of other topics commanding his attention. A somewhat different method, however, necessarily prevails in the presentation of historical data belonging especially to the townships and neighborhoods of the county. In this department, less generalization and more detail is required, since it is reasonably expected that the recitals will in the main refer to what has taken place under the immediate observation of persons formerly or at present residents of the township, or in which many of them may have individually participated. Hence, it is the province of the township historian to confine himself to the consideration of home matters - individual matters - as opposed to what may be properly recognized as public matters.

This is the more natural method, since, in the early days of om- pioneer history, there were no immediate boundaries circumscribing om- homes and settlements, making us esi)eoially inhabitants of a merely local jm-isdiction. The settlers then were free, amenable only to the laws of our country as a nation, and to the great principles of inherent liberty and right, accepting the limit of freedom to be the exercise of personal prerogatives not in conflict with the rights of others. It will be the aim. therefore, to BO treat the subject as to commence with the period of settlement and trace the progress of local improvement from the individual homestead in the wilderness to the stately farm-house and the broad acres, with the elaborately cultivated fields of to-day: giving, measui-ed by the best results of our opportunities, the details of fact and incident that make up the family, neighborhood and township history. In this department will be found, also, the names of individuals, with the dates of their settlement; township organization and early local ofiicers; the formation of early religious societies, the erection and dedication of churches; the location, building and occupancy of schoolhouses ; the building of mills and the introduction of such mechanical conti'ivances as tend to the enlargement of facilities and area of productive industry. In short, the reader will find in the pages following a comprehensive review of the featm-es that give character to the locality. Beyond these features, whatever of interest indicative of the progress of society in the acquisition of those chisses of knowledge, the possession of which enlarges the sphere of usefulnesH in the double capacity of citizenship and individual consideration, will find mention in its ap]iroi)riato place.

DEER CREEK TOWNSHIP. At the time when the fii-st settlements began to be made in Carroll County, the entire territory embraced within its limits was in a state of natui'e. and only a portion of its lands had been surveyed. About the time the public lands in this vicinity were subject 10 entry and piu-chase, Henry Robinson, who, it would seem, had been here on a tour of inspection and selected an eligible site for a homestead, repaired to the land office at Crawfordsville and procured a certificate of pm-chase at the established rate, for the east half of the southeast quai'ter of Section 20, in Township 25 north. Range 2 west, containing eighty acres, the certificate bearing date December 21, 1824. A week later, he. with his eldest son, Abner, and other necessary help, started on their joui-ney for the spot selected for their futm-e home, reaching it on the last day of the year, 182-4. An account of the erection of that first cabin, and the circumstances attending it. having been given elsewhere in this volume, it is not necessary to repeat the same in this connection, Suffice it to say, this building was. no doubt, for the purposes of a residence, the first one erected in the county, and, of coui'se, the fii-st one erected in Deer Creek Township, because the first permanent settlements in the county were here. Four yeai-s previous, however, a trading-house had been erected by Col. John B. Dirret. on the left bank of the Wabash, just above the mouth of Rock Creek, in what is now Carroll County, but not in this township as at present organized.

On Wednesday. January 12, 1825. the families of Hem-y and Abner Robinson came and were domiciled in their new home - the fii-st families of white settlers in the township and in the county.

It has generally been an accepted fact, recognized b_v the family and the old settlers here, that Mi'. Robinson was not only the fii-st settler in the township and county, but the first purchaser of land, also. Notwithstanding this prevailing opinion, it is true that Epbraim Chamberlain, on the 17 th of February. 1824. made the first piu'chase. and secured the title to the west half of the southwest quarter of Section 18, in the same Congi-essional township, containing 62/^^ acres.

The second family that settled in Deer Creek Township was that of Benjamin D. Angell, the families of Henry and Abner Robinson being recoguiziid as one - the first. The tracts of land first piu-chased by Mr. Aiigell were the west half of the southwest and the west half of tl/e northwest quai'ter of Section 28, in Township 25 north, Ringe 2 west, January 3, 1825. Afterward, on the loth, he pni'chased another tract - the east half of the southeast quarter of Section 29. in the same township and range - both lying in Deer Creek To\vnship.

Dr. Bradfield is a son of Thomas and Mary (Dean) Bradfield. Both parents were natives of Ireland, the ancestors of his father having been of English lineage. His paternal grandfather was, atone time, a Quartermaster in the English Army.

His father (Thomas Bradfield) conceiving the advantages of a removal to the New World, in May, 1850, he crossed the Atlantic and came to Logansport, Ind., his mother (Mary Dean Bradfield) remaining in Ireland till two years later.

First seven years in America, his father was employed as Captain on the Wabash & Erie Canal. But, since 1857, has been a successful farmer in Washington Township, Cass County, Ind. Benjamin D., the subject of our sketch, was born in County Cork, Ireland, July 9, 1850, and came with his mother, spring of 1852, to join his father, at Logansport. Beyond the advantages of the common school, our subject first attended the Presbyterian Academy at Logansport. Then, teaching a winter term of school, he entered the Logansport High School, graduating therefrom after an attendance of about two yeare.

Israel B. Washbume at Logansport. He here spent his time, in the main, till October, 1874, when he entered the Medical Department of the Michigan University at Ann Arbor. Remaining here about one year, he accepted a situation as Principal of the High School at Eagle River, Keweenaw Co., Mich., for about another year. While thus engaged, his leisure time was devoted to the study of his favorite pursuit (medicine) under an older brother, Hon. T. D. Bradfield, who was located at Copper Falls l\Iine, a few miles distant from Eagle River. In the fall of 1876, he re-entered the medical school at Ann Arbor, graduating from the same, spring of 1877. June 22, 1877, he located at Deer Creek, and since that time has there been successfully engaged in the practice of medicine. In the meantime, he has been accepted as a member of the Cass County Medical Society, and of the Logansport Medical and Surgical Association.

In the accumulation of property, he has been reasonably successful. His possessions consist of farm lands, village property, etc. The accompanying view represents his pleasant home and olfice at Deer Creek. Besides caring for his own and pursuing the practice of his profession, he fills the position of Township Trustee, to which he was elected the spring of 1880. In politics, he is Democratic. June 28, 1878. he wedded Miss Marietta Carney, youngest daughter of James and Anna Carney, of Cass County. Their marriage has been congenial and pleasant , the fruits of which have been two children, viz., John and Etta. The former is now a robust, noble little boy of nearly three years, and baby Etta, sweet child, has passed on to her home of eternal innocence.

An earnest, sincere physician ; a faithful public servant ; an affectionate husband and father ; a good citizen, he is widely known and esteemed.

a quarter-section - the east half of the southeast quarter, and the west half of the southeast quarter, both in Section 30, Township 24 north, Range 2 west, but he did not .arrive with his family until the 30th of April, 1825, when, he, with his own and four other families, arrived on a keel-boat, coming up Deer Creek from the Wabash Kiver about one-half mile, where the boat landed, and where its keel yet remains imbedded in the sand and mud.

Prior to the settlement of Mi-. Baum. however. Aaron Wilds and John Carey came, the former settling on the east half of the southwest quarter, and the latter on the west half of the same quarter, of Section 22. in this township, the purchases having been made on the 4th and on the 6th of Ma_Y, respectively, in the yeai' 1825 - James Odell. having, on the 10th of January preceding, purchased the west half of the southeast quarter of the same section - all of the parties becoming permanent settlers in CaiToll County.

Of the families that came here on the keel-boat with the family of Daniel Baum. Sr. . that of Robert Mitchell. Sr. . settled on the bank of Deer Creek, not far from Mi-. Baimi's homestead. After making some improvement there, and otherwise putting himself in a condition that would, in the course of time, have rendered himself and family comparatively comfortable. Mr. Mitchell sickened and died on the 27th of August. 1826. His remains were bui'ied at the section corner, at the foot of Front street, in the city of Delphi.

Jacob Baiun. another of those who. with his family, were passengers on Daniel Baum's keel-boat, soon after his arrival settled on the tract of land one mile east of the city, on the Delphi and Lojiansport road, afterward owned by Peter Toughman.

Thomas Stirlen landed in CaiToll County on the 3d of March, 1825, and settled on the east half of the northwest quarter of Section 24, in Deer Creek Township, He, with his family, came from Wayne Coxmty. Ind. . in company with the family of Mr. Odell, and has since that time been an honored citizen of this county.

In the fall of the same year. Hugh Manary became a resident of the county and a permanent member of the new settlements on Deer Creek, establishing himself in the creek bottom, on what is now known as Manai-y's Addition to Delphi. Not fai- from the same period - indeed, somewhat earlier ( May 5, 1825 ) - John R. Ballard, with a' few other young men. arrived here from the State of New York, and became members of the new settlement on Deer Creek, and assisted in making improvements on the lands already partially opened. He has continued to be a resident of the county ever since, though not of Deer Creek Township.

A few months later, the settlements in this vicinity received numerous accessions, among them Isam Adkinson, James Mc- Dowell, John Kuns and some others, most or all of them settling in upper part of the township. Mi-. Adkinson pm-ehased and made an improvement upon the north fi-action of the northeast quai-ter of Section 3; Mr. McDowell, on the east half of the northeast quarter of Section 10; John Kuns. on the fi-aetional northwest and southwest quarters of Section 2. and the others in the immediate neighborhood.

During the fall of the year 1826. in the month of October, Gen. Samuel Milroy. with his family, came here and settled on Deer Creek, on the fai-m since known as the "Milroy farm" - the west half of the southwest quarter of Section 21, about one mile east of Delphi, on the margin of Deer Creek.

from Delphi, as did also his brother William, who came with him. A more detailed account of all these settlers and the settlements made by them will be found in preceding chapters, among the " Reminiscences " of the early settlers of the county.

From the beginning of the year 1827 forward, settlements began to be made more rapidly, as the influx of seekers for new homes in the " wild woods " of the West increased, so that, in the course of a year or more, there was a population sufficient to justify the experiment of self-government as a township, subordinate to a county jm-isdiction.

Boundary, Etc

The county was organized accordingly, as we have seen, on the 1st day of May. 1828. and. at a meeting of the board doing county business on the 12th of that month. Deer Creek Township, of Carroll County, was defined by boundaries as follows:

" Ordered, that all that part of the county of Carroll southeast of the Wabash River, lying south of the north line of Section 16. To^vnship 25 north, constitute one township, to be known and designated by the name of Deer Creek Township, and that the elections in said township be holden at the house of Daniel McCain. "

Afterward, at a regular session of the Board of Coimty Commissioners, on the 4th day of. December. 1832. the boundaries of Deer Creek Township were re-defined as follows:

" Ordered, that all that part of the county of Carroll within the following bounds, to wit: Commencing at the southwest corner of Township 25 north. Range 2 west; thence south two miles; thence east six miles; thence north seven; thence west to the Wabash River; thence down said river to the place of beginning - shall form and constitute one township, to be known and designated by the name of Deer Creek Township. "

Subsequently, one tier of sections in Range 2 west, southeast of the Wabash River, was taken from the south side of Rock Creek Township and added to Deer Creek Township on the north, making the bouudai-y as at present defined, comprising all the territory in Range 2 west, north of a line di-awn due west from the south side of Section 12, in Township 24 north, and south of the north line of Township, east and southeast of the Wabash River. At the time of its organization. Deer Creek Township contained a population of about two hundi-ed and ten. more than one-third the entire population of the county outside of Eel Township of Carroll County, which comprised all the territory now embraced in Cass County, then under the jui-isdiction of Carroll.

At the first session of the board, when the boundaries had been defined and Deer Creek Township declared a separate and subordinate jm-isdiction. William G. Bishop was appointed Inspector of Elections therein, and the house of Daniel McCain was designated as the place for holding elections. On the same day of the session, it was ordered that an election for township officers be held on Satm-day, the 7th day of June, then succeeding. The appointed officers were: Joseph McCain. Constable; Samuel Wells and James Odell. Overseers of the Poor; and William McCord. John Givens and Thomas Stirlen. Fence Viewers, for Deer Creek Township. The election for Justice of the Peace was held as ordered, on the 7th of Jime. and Henry Robinson was chosen, having received sixteen out of the twenty-seven votes cast for that office. He was commissioned by the Governor, on the 14th of July. 1828. for a term of service of five years, and served accordingly.

The following persons were appointed to fill the oflSces named, at the February session, 1829, of the Board of County Commissioners: Samuel Wells and James Odell were re-appointed Overseers of the Poor; David Baumand Robert Cade. Fence Viewers; and William G. Bishop. Inspector of Elections. The new public schoolhoiise in Delphi was designated as the place for holding, for the futm'e. in Deer Creek Township. Moses Standley was appointed Constable. At the same session, road districts were formed for working and keeping the road from Delphi to Logans - port in rejiair. The first district embraced Deer Creek Township, and William McCreery was appointed Supervisor, with authority to work the following hands: William George, William

McCain. Thomas R, McCain. Moses Thompson. Joseph Jackson, Thomas Burk. John Givens. Joseph Patterson. John Robljins James McDonald and Dr. John M. Ewing. A change was mad( at this session in the road district, and Joseph Dunham was ap pointed Supervisor, to work the same hands, with a few addi tions.

Township officers were again appointed, at the February ses sion, 1830, of the County Board, as follows: Overseers of the Poor John Knight and James Odell; Inspector of Elections. William George; Fence Viewers. Joseph Dunham, John Knight and David Baum, At a special session tn November, 1829, Jonah T. Hopkinson had been appointed Constable for this township, with Isaac Griffith. William George. Aaron Dewey and Joseph Dunham as his sureties.

The following township officers were apjjointed at the February session. 1831, to wit; Fence Viewers, James H. Stewart and Milton M. Morris; Overseers of the Poor, John Knight and James Odell; Constable, Oliver D. Butler; Inspector of Elections, William McCreery.

Eakly Deaths

By reference to Chapters II and III of the " Pioneer Period, " on pages 102, 103 and 104 of this volume, the reader will find not only a register of the name and date of death of all persons who died within the limits of the settlement - especially that portion of it now embraced in Deer Creek Township -but some account of the circumstances attending the sickness, death and burial of such of them as had been remembered, by the narrators of those reminiscences. It would seem, therefore, to be unnecessary here, in this connection, to re-state in substance what there appears in comparative fullness.

Religious Observances And Societies

That there was a strong current of practical religious zeal pervading the elements that composed the body of early settlers in Carroll County, in this township especially, will scarcely be gainsaid, since there are still in existence, at this distant period, evidences of Christian culture and the observance of religious ceremonies long established and carefully guarded. Among these evidences, let it be noted, there are some facts worthy the attention of all readers. It is stated, on the authority of written testimony, that the people of this settlement, by common consent, met on Sunday, the 18th day of January, 1820, little more than a year from the date when the first white family sought a home within the limits of this township, and held their tij-st social general prayer-meeting, with hearts full of gratitude to the Giver of all good for the manifold blessings vouchsafed luito them. Private family prayers were common, and had been from the beginning, but this appears to have been the first public meeting, participated in by all, ever held in Deer Creek Township - indeed, in Carroll County. At the time referred to. it is stated that there were but ten heads of families in the entire county, and that, thereafter, even until the present day. meetings of that kind had been held by those pioneer fathers and mothers, and the descendants of them, with the same fervency and zeal that actuatei them more than half a century ago. in the quiet cabin homes of the distant past. In November. 182(5. a Methodist society was organized in this township. com]iosed of the following members: John Odell and Sarah Odell. his wife; Elizabeth Angell. widow of the late Benjamin D. Angell: John Carey and Ruth Carey, his wife; Thomas Stirlen and Frances Stirlen. his wife - under the charge of Rev. Henry P. Buell. of the Crawfordsville Mission, who preached once in about four weeks in the settlement. A branch of the Presbyterian Chm-ch was organized on the 22d of May. 1828, composed of the following members: Henry Robinson and Elizabeth Robinson, his wife; Abner Robinson, and Sarah Robinson his wife; William McCord: John M. Ewing; Jone AVaugh; Aaron Dewey and Charlotte Dewey, his wife; William Wilson and Ann Wilson, his wife - nearly all of whom were residents of Deer Creek Township, the others in Delphi, just then established as the seat of justice of Carroll Coimty. It was organized through the agency of Rev. James Crawford and James Thompson, a committee appointed by the Crawfordsville Presbytery for that piu-pose. . The society thus constituted took the name of "The Presbyterian Church of Deer Creek," which name it retained until January 22, 1833, when " Delphi " was substituted for Deer Creek. Henry Robinson and William Mc- Cord were chosen Ruling Elders.

Early Koads

So intimately is the road system of Deer Creek Township connected with that of Carroll County that the separation of the same so as to make them exclusively the outgrowth of a necessity in the one or the other of these jurisdictions, would be extremely difficult, if not really inappropriate. Under the division of "Order and Law." Chapter V. commencing on page 125, appropriated to " Avenues of Travel," the early roads of the county, and of Deer Creek Township as well, are very fully set out. and need not be repeated here.

Some time in the early part of the summer of 1825, the mill site on the creek, just beyond the city limits to the eastward, began to be improved by Henry Robinson, who at that time was the owner of the premises. Because of the want of the proper tools and other facilities, [the work jirogressed very slowly, notwithstanding the mechanical ingenuity of the proprietor. Persevering, however, in forwarding the enterprise, using such tools and mechanical appliances as were at command, in the course of time he succeeded in getting the mill in operation in May or June of the following year. This was a saw-mill. but. in two or three weeks after it commenced running - in the latter pai-t of Septem bar. 1826 - Mr. Robinson ]irocured a pair of small mill-stones, and, adjusting them to the machinery of the saw-mill building, it was not long before he had a gi-inding mill, known as a " corncracker," in successful operation, also. These additions to the facilities already possessed for promoting the comfort and convenience, and at the same time lessening the imcertainties of subsistence on the part of the settlers of the neighborhood, were hailed with delight as a foreview of the prospective future - ob- viating, in no small degree, as it did. the inconveniences to which they had been subjected in being obliged, sometimes, to go to Fountain County, at other times to Crawfordsville. but then more recently to La Fayette, where a mill had been erected but a short time before, to get their corn groimd. Mr. Robinson's " corncracker." as its name indicates, was of that class of grindingmills especially adapted to grinding corn, not extra fine, as we sometimes have it in these days, but reduced to finer |iai-ticles -than it was the custom to " pound it " in the " hominy mortar. " Since there was no blacksmith neai-er than Crawfordsville. Mr. Robinson had to go there for all his iron work about the mills. In tlie end. he accomplished all he proposed in that original enterprise, and left to succeeding generations a monument as endm-ing as time. In after yeai-s - 18'2it and 1830- -he erected a to reside here until some time after- tlie death .if his wife, whicli occm-red on the 'ioth nf Oct.iber. I sr.!). He afterwant went to Illinois, and when the rebellion broke out. ho enteri'd the army as a member of the Ninth Indiana, a short time prior to the bat tie of Pittsburg Landing, and wiis ajijiointed Hospital Steward, in which jiosition he soon after died.

During the winter of 1827-28. there was much rainy weather, and the lowlands were greatly aftected by high waters. In January, 1828, as a consequence of these heavy rains, the water in the river and creeks rose so high as to inundate the A\'abash and Deer Creek bottoms, doing much damage. During that period, the water came up and ran into Mr. Baum's kitchen, situated, as we have seen, on the low grounds adjacent to Deer Creek. A like incident occurred there a few years later.

general merchant and flouring mill on Deer Creek, the site nc occupied by the Deljihi Mills. This last mill was his ultima- | and Abner Robinson was appointed PostmastiT. The otlice was tum, and he lived to enjoy it for many years, in the meantime | situated near the old mill first built by Mr. Robinson's father, erecting a saw-mill near the same site. j It was a very satisfactory evidence of Governmental favor, and

The mill privilege first improved by Mr. Robinson, on the j was highly apjireciated by the jjeople, who were esjiecially intercreek east of town, was afterward gi'eatly improved by subsequent j ested in its establishment.

Some time in the fall of 1881. in consequence of a lack of water in Deer Creek to propel the machinery of the Delphi Mills, the last erected by Mr. Robinson, the proprietors added steam power, which enables them to keep up with the demands of their customers without encountering the delays incident to low water.

Early 1Merohant

About the middle of summer in the year 1827. Daniel F. Vandeventer. from New York, brought up by keel-boat a small stock of goods, which were placed in a log storehouse erected by Daniel Baum. Sr. . in the yard adjaceut to his own cabin, in the low grounds on the margin of Deer Creek, just below where the Wabash, St. Louis & Pacific Railroad crosses. This, it is generally conceded, was the first stock of goods ever brought here. This pioneer mercantile establishment continued in operation at the same point for many years afterward, and when the county was organized. Dr. Vandeventer being elected Clerk, the room, with his store, was occupied for the double pm-pose of a storeroom and Clerk's office, although it was a little outside the county seat.

Not far from the same period, perhaps a little later, Isaac Ciriffith brought another small stock of goods for the accommodation of the settlers, and established a store for the deposit and sale of diy goods, groceries, etc. . and such other staple articles as the demands of trade requii-ed. adjacent to and south of the mills afterward owned by himself and Mr. Halsey, on the creek east of town. Before the location of these stores, in which the necessary supplies for the settlers were kept, all these had to be procured from Crawfordsville and La Fayette, the nearest accessible points.

In April. 1827. Dr. John M. Ewing, the first practicing physician in the county, came to Deer Creek Township and established himself. Since he had the whole field to traverse alone, his practice became quite extensive, but not, as he alleged, very lucrative, for he was a man very chai-itably disposed, and perfonned a large amount of service for which he received no other compensation than his inward consciousness of having discharged his duty faithfully. Dr. Ewing married Lydia Ann, third daughter of Henry Robinson, on the 3d of January, 1829, and continued

Among the formidable annoyances to which the early settlei-s in this neighborhood were subjected was the jjresence. es|)eciallv during the first warm weather in spring, of numerous rattlesnakes -a fruitful source of danger, and required the exercise of uncommon caution in working among the weeds and undergrowth that i)ervaded the settlements. Their den was situated on the Wilson fai-m. east of Delphi, not far from Deer Creek. Not many persons were bitten by them, but great fear was entertained lest they should find their way. unobserved, into the settlers' cabins, ! as they sometimes did. and bite the children, who would be unconscious of the danger that thi-eatened them. These unwelcome ] reptiles were finally hunted down and destroyed, as the sm-est J way to become rid of their presence. It is believed that now j many years have elapsed since any of their class have been discovered and cajitiu-ed in the neighborhood where they were at one ! time so numerous.

Schools And Schoolhouses

In the article appropriated to counti-y schools and school work in Can-oil County, the reader has already been informed that Miss Sarah B. Robinson taught the first school in the Deer Creek sot- | tlement. being also the first in the county, in the summer and fall of 1827, in an old cabin on her father's f;u-m. previously occupied by the family. It was comparatively well attended, and most of those in the immediate neighborhood who were of proper age were pupils, and received their first school instruction under her guardianship. That she did good work is fully attested by many yet living, who received with satisfaction the elements of an education utilized in an active business life. She was succeeded by Aaron Dewey, who took charge of the school in the winter following, and taught the same in a cabin adjoining that in which he resided, within the present limits of Deljjhi. at the time, however, in the territory occupied by Deer Creek Townshij).

Dm-ing the fall and winter of 1828, the first public school building was erected in Delphi, as a township schoolhouse. prior to the incorporation of Deljihi as a town. In the com-se of time, it became a general public Ijuilding. and was apjiropriated to almost every service, for meetings of all kinds, for courts, religious puri^oses, etc., in addition to that for which it was built. It was of hewed logs, and really a verj' respectable edifice in the day of its usefulness. The names of the teachers who occupied it from time to time are not now remembered. i . I

Prior to the adoption of the public school system of 1852, six buildings appeal' to have been built for that purpose in Deer Creek Township, all of an inferior quality and pronounced "bad" by the incoming school officers. These buildings were presumed to be sufficient for the accommodation of the 400 children enumerated as being eligible to attend school. That they were not so is best attested by the fact that in most of the districts new ones were ordered to be erected without delay. The report to the State Superintendent in 1855 shows that five new buildings had been in the townshiji within the year preceding, for the accommodation of the 236 children who attended school during the current year. In 1856, the report shows that a schoolhouse was erected at a cost of 1670, and that a tax had been assessed amounting to 1519.29, for the purpose of building schoolhouses in the township, then divided into seven districts. Another house was built in 1857, at a cost of $440, and $415 assessed for a like purpose - then there were eight districts. Afterward, in the year 1858, another house was built in the township, at a cost of $435, making eight in all; yet, in 1859, a building was erected to supply the place of one foimd to be insufficient, at a cost of $700, thus supplying all of the districts with comparatively respectable schoolhouses. During that year, schools were taught in the several districts an average period of thirty-six days, and $400 paid for tuition. Within the succeeding ten years, two additional districts had been formed, and other buildings erected for their accommodation. In 1869, ten teachers were employed in the schools of the township, at an average daily compensation of $2, and schools maintained for a length of fifty-live days, the whole number of pupils admitted being 290, or an average of twentynine to each school.

For the year ending August 31, 1872, the Superintendent's report shows that there were schools taught in the several districts of the township an average period of 160 days; that the whole number of pupils admitted to school in the township was 425, or an averageof forty-two andahalf to each of the ten schools ; that ten teachers were employed, five males and five females, at an average daily compensation of $2; that the number of children enumerated entitled to attend school was 441 ; of these, all attended during the year except sixteen - the best per cent of attendance, perhaps, found in any district of the county. It is shown, also, by the same report, that of the ten schoolhouses in the township, one was brick and nine frame; that the estimated value of these houses, including the grounds, school furnitiu-e, etc., was $12,- 000, and the value of school apparatus, including globes, maps. etc. , $500 additional, making the aggregate value of school property in the township $12,500; that there were 550 volumes in the library, and of these 144 had been taken during the year.

By the enumeration taken in May, 1880, it was shown that there were in Deer Creek Township 407 persons between the ages of six and twenty-one years, of whom 222 were males and 185 females; also, that there were no persons in the township between the ages of ten and twenty-one years who could not read and write - a fact of especial value inmeasiu'ing the grade of intelligence possessed by the people, as well as in determining the interest taken in availing themselves of the public school privileges.

Aoricultukal Statistics

As shown by the report from the Bureau of Statistics and Geology of the State of Indiana for the year 1880, the products of Deer Creek Township for that year were as follows: 4,284 acres of wheat, averaging 18 bushels to the acre, making the aggregate jjroduct 77.212 bushels; 3.739 acres of corn, with an average of 20 bushels on upland and 40 bushels on bottom land per acre, making an aggi"egate of 117,510 bushels; 1,057 acres of oats, with an average of 25 bushels to the acre, making a total of 26,425 bushels; 815 acres of meadow land, that yielded an average of 1 ton per acre, making a total of 815 tons; 25 acres of Irish potatoes, with an average yield of 70 bushels per acre, making in all 1,750 bushels; 7 acres of sweet potatoes, yielding 22 bushels per acre, in all, 154 bushels; from which it appears that 9,927 acres of land in this township had been appropriated to the cultivation of these several staple products, the rate of yield, in most instances, equal to and frequently above the rate shown as to the same class of products in other townships of the county. There are few, if any, townships of the county better or more successfully cultivated than Deer Creek; and it possesses, in a very eminent degree, the qualities and varieties of soil calculated to produce the various grains, etc. , enumerated above, as is fully shown in the foregoing statement.

By the census of 187t), Deer Creek Township had a population, including Delphi, of 3,458; in 1880, it had a population of 1,655, excluding Delphi.

City Of Delphi

The territory occupied by the city of Deplhi was originally comprised within the limits of Deer Creek Township as defined by the Board of County Commissioners at the time when the organization of the county was consummated on the, 12th day of May, 1828. Three days later, however, on the 15th day of May, at a special session of the board held at the house of Daniel Bavun, the Commissioners appointed by the Legislatiu'e to select an eligible site for and locate the seat of justice of the new county of Carroll having agreed upon a selection, made a report setting forth the result of their deliberations and the conclusions in the premises, in the location of such seat of justice upon a tract of 100 acres, being a part of the northwest quarter of Section 29, in Township 25 north, Range 2 west, of the Second Principal Meridian, and the determination of "CarroUton" as the name by which the town was to be thereafter known. This name, though appropriate in consideration for the memory of the illustrious patriot whose name they gave to the county, was unsatisfactory to the people, and, upon petition, the board, at a special session held on Saturday, the 24th of May, of the same year, changed the name to Delphi, by which it has since been known. Immediately after the selection of this site, the town plat was surveyed, and the public square and the streets and alleys, as by the board ])rescribed, laid out and defined. The fii'st Monday in August, the day of the general election for State and coimty officers, was fixed as the time when the lots were to be sold, and notice thereof given accordingly. Some lots were sold at that time, and the improving process WhS commenced, deliberately but earnestly. From that time until the present, the growth has been permanent, though gi-adual, exhibiting, at this day, a beautiful city of fair proportions, the pride of its citizens and the jieople of the county, who recognize it as their local ca])ital.

DiU'ing all the ]ieriod from the date when the 100-acre tract donated by William Wilson as a coimty seat was subdivided and laid out into lots, streets and alleys, with the " jiublic squwe," until in the fall of 1835, Delphi was, jiractically, a part of Deer Creek Township, and yet the seat of justice of the county. Early in the month of Soi)tembor of the latter year, notice was given, pursuant to the law in such cases made and provided, that the citizens of Delphi would meet on the 15th of that mouth, in ac- cordance with the provisions of " an act providing for the incorporation of towns," and an act amendatory thereto, for the pui-- pose of dividing the town into districts, preparatoiy to perfecting the process of organization. At the meeting held for this purpose, William George was appointed President, and Henry B. Milroy, Clerk. The meeting then proceeded to subdivide the town into five districts, after which Tnistees were elected to represent tho.se districts as follows: Fii-st District, William George; Second District, David Henderson; Third Disti'ict, Henry B. Milroy; Fourth District, Samuel Grimes; Fifth District, Andrew Wood. On the 1-tth of October following, these Ti-ustees met and organized by electing Samuel Grimes. President, and Michael C. Dougherty, Clerk. The next business of the board was to appoint a committee, consisting of William George and Hem-y B. Milroy, to draft the necessaiy rules and regulations for the government of the board A meeting was held on the 17th, at the house of David Henderson, in the Second District, when, the committee having prepared and reported rules, etc., in accordance with instructions, they were severally adopted and the committee discharged.

Much of the time of the meeting held on the '23d of January, 1836, was taken up in the submission and passage of a series of important ordinances for the better management of the affairs of the new corporation, prescribing the duties of officers and for the improvement of the town. At the same meeting, Samuel D. Gresham was appointed Assessor, with Robert Adams and Thomas Cole as Assistants. James P. Dugan was also appointed Corporation Treaam-er. At a subsequent meeting of the board, held on the 23d of April of the same year, Mr. Gresham was appointed to discharge the ftirther duty of collecting the town revenue. William McCrery was made Superintendent of the Public Work in progress, while Samuel D. Gresham, in addition to his other duties, was appointed Town Marshal, or High Constable.

On the 14th of May, a re-survey of the town was ordered, and Mr. John Armstrong, afterward County Sm-veyor, was employed to do the work in accordance with instructions prescribed; and, at a subsequent meeting, held on the 9th of July, Col. William Crooks was appointed to sujierintend the )>roposed improvement of the streets.

Pursuant to the act of incorporation, a new Board of Ti-ustees was elected, and, on the 21st of October, 1836, the board so elected consisting of Chevalier Ptichardson, William H. Buford, Jonah T. Hopkinson, Andi-ew Sproul and Simeon Sherfey, met and organized by electing for President, Chevalier Richardson; Clerk, Michael C. Dougherty; Assessor and Collector, Samuel D. Gresham; Treasiu'er, Simeon Sherfey; Marshal, Jonah T. Hopkinson. On the 13th of May, 1837, a vacancy having occurred in the Fifth Ward by the resignation of Mi-. Hopkinson, A. D. E. Tweed was elected Trustee to fill the same. At the same meeting, a vacancy having occurred in the office of Marshal, also, Curtis Keener was appointed. Further proceedings were had at the same session of the board, pro%iding means for facilitating the improvement of the streets and sidewalks, by the appointment of Andi-ew Davis to level Main and Washington streets, and of William H. Buford to superintend the placing of ciu-b timbers, all these measiu-es tending to develop and exhibit the real spirit that actuated the promoters of an enterprise so necessary to the prosperity and growth of the county town. Afterward, on the 1st of July, Mr. Tweed was elected to the Presidency of the board, and James H. Stewart, Clerk.

for the new corporation, on the 13th of November, a meeting was held and an organization took place. The board so elected was composed of the following gentlemen: William Crooks, Aaron Dewey, Andrew Wood and Charles E. Sturgis, who elected Will iam Crooks, President, and Charles E. Sturgis, Clerk, of the cor poration. At this meeting, Curtis Keener was appointed Collector, and Aaron Dewey, Treasurer. To fill vacancies in the First and Second AVards, an election was ordered to be held on ths 23d of that month by the qualified voters of said wards, in the manner prescribed by law.

At a session of the board, held on the 28th of November, 1838, there were present William Crooks, Aaron Dewey, Alfred Kamey and James Crumley. The meeting being organized, Mr. Kamey was appointed Clerk in place of Chai-les E. Sturgis, resigned, and Curtis Keener was chosen Assessor and Marshal.

Aaron Dewey was appointed, on the 10th of February, 1838, a committee to interview Mr. Vail, and Mr. Aspey also, contractors and builders, and ascertain fi-om them upon what terms they would take the subscriptions procm-ed for the erection of a market house, and complete the work already begun. After consultation with these gentlemen, an an-angement was concluded with Mr. Vail, by which he agreed to accept such subscriptions in payment for the construction of that building, and on the i2th of February, two days later, at a meeting of the board then held, a con tract was entered into between the parties in conformity with the terms of the aforesaid agreeii,ent.

Curtis Keei er, before appointed Assessor and Maishal, having removed from this jurisdictior, on the 30th of March, 1838, George Sherburne was appointed to fill the vacancy thus occasioned.

At the session of 1837-38 of the State Legislatiu-e, a new charter was granted, authorizing the election of Mayor, Council - men and other officers prescribed for the maintenance of a city government. In May, lS38, an election was held for the choice of such officers, pursuant to the provisions of said charter. The new organization went into operation on the 18th of May, when William Crooks produced his commission as Mayor, Aaron Dewey, James Crumley and Ambrose Phelps having also produced certifi cates of their election of Couneilmen from their respective wai'ds, appeared, also, and were duly sworn. At the same time, Hemy Orwig, having been elected Marshal, Assessor - and Collector, produced the proper certificate tif his election, and was duly sworn. These several officers then entered at once upon the discharge of the duties severally assigned to them.

A new election took place in November of the same year, at which the following persons were chosen: Samuel Grimes, Mayor; with Samuel Grimes, Simeon L. Broadwell, John Brad shaw and David W. Bowen as Couneilmen, who severally ap peared and were sworn. On the following day, Hiram Allen and Jesse R. Henry, elected at the same time, appeared and were sworn, also. At this meeting, David W. Bowen was appointed Clerk; William McCrery, Treasurer; Edwin R. Davis, Marshal; and Hiram Allen, Corporation Attorney.

Among other proceedings noted as having been had under this corporation, the following are given: April 20, 1839, Joseph La Flem-, having paid $35, was licensed to keep a grocery, and George W. Goodlander to sell goods at auction. June 13, William Brewster was appointed Corporation Surveyor. An-

Several vacancies having occurred in the corporation offices, on the ir)th of February. IS-tO. William Simpson was appointed Mayor, and He ry Orwig. John McCurdy and William Dnnkle were app<iinted Common Councilmen, and all duly sworn.

On the nth of May, a regulai- session of the Council was held, at which there were present the following officers: William Simpson, Mayor; John McCurdy, Daniel W. Bowen, Henry Orwig, William Dunkle and Jesse R. Heniy, Councilmen. The routine business only appears to have been transacted at that session. At the meeting held on the 25th of May following, Lewis Martin was appointed Marshal and Assessor, and, on the 22d of Jv.ne, H. Tuttle was appointed Corporation Clerk.

On the 7th of September, 1840, another corporation election was held with the following result; George M. Maxwell, Mayor; Henry R. Glazier, Jesse Osbourn, David W. Bowen and William Dunkle, Councilmen. Jesse R. Hem-y holding over. November 12, H. Tuttle was again appointed Clerk. At the same meeting, among other proceedings had David W. Bowen, Newton H. Gist and William Dunkle were appointed a special committee to examine stovepipes and chimneys, and ascertain whether they were defective and liable to be a soiu-ce of danger to the buildings in which they were situated. At the same session, Thomas C. Hughes was appointed Marshal, and the Carroll Express was made the official paper of the corporation, to do all printing, etc. Under the law in force at that period, all vacancies could be filled by appointment of the Common Council at any regular meeting, a quonun being present. In case a quoi'um was not present, and there were vacancies necessai'y to be filled, an election was authorized to be held pm-suant to a notice for that purpose, .signed by not less than twenty citizens, at which persons to fill all the vacancies specified in the notice might be legally chosen. The following is a case in point: There was a general vacancy in corporation officers in the fall of 1846, and an election could not be ordered in the regular way; accordingly, the following notice was prepared and signed, bearing date December 31, 1846: "An election for Mayor and Councilmen of the town of Delphi will be holden at the usual place of holding elections in each ward in said town, on the third Satm'day of Janumy next." Signed by Enoch Rinehart, W. H. Buford, L. A. Gaylord, M. Simpson, D. R. Harley, N. B. Dewey, A. G. Leadbetter, John Phelps, V. Holt, H. Foreman, W. H. Calvert, Charles Ruffing, James H. Stewart, J. A. Reed, L. S. Dale, Hiram Allen, William Simpson, William Rees, William Potter, N. H. Gist. An election was held as directed by the aforesaid notice. At a meeting subseipient to that election, on the 10th of March, 1847, there were present of the officers so elected the following: Levi S. Dale, Mayor; John Boggs, Samuel D. Gresham, Josejih Evans, Jesse R. Henry and Nathaniel W. Bowen, Councilmen. At this meeting, E. W. Hubbard was appointed Clerk; Edwin R. Davis, Marshal; and Enoch Rinehart, Treasiu-er. To comjilete and make apparent the regularity of said election, on motion, it was ordered that the notice for the election of Mayor and Councilmen, before recited, be spread upon the minutes of their corporation ])roeeedings, and recorded accordingly.

In the summer and fall of 184'J, nmcli exritoiiieiit |iivvailed in consequence of the appearance ul cholera at several [loints along the canal and river. Several persons had been exposed to and infected V)v it, fi-om which three or four deaths occnn-ed in this vicinity. This was a sufficient cause for the enactment of the most stringent sanitary, or rather preventive, regulations by the corporate authorities of Delphi. To meet the emergency, a special meeting was called for July 25, 1849. At that meeting, all the officers and members, except Nathan G. Gillam. Mayor, were present. For the occasion, Levi M. Graham was made Chairman. After some discussion and many suggestions, the following resolution and order, calculated to meet the issue, were presented and declared upon as the sense of the public, under the circumstances :

Resolved, That the proprietors of the hotels in this place be earnestly requested to refuse entertainment to all persons passing or traveling from places infected with the cholera for any length of time - say time U gel a meai of victuals.

Ordered, That the Marshal be empowered to prevent canal-boats from putting off emigrants, or transient persons, to remain among us; and tliat the board co-operate with him in carrying out said order.

The most notable feature in the anomalous proceedings had by the corporate authorities in the premises, was the proclauiation of the following ordinance on the 1st of August:

Be it ordaine<l by the Mayor and Common Council of llie town of Delphi, that all persons passing or traveling from places infected with the cholera, be prohibited from staying in our midst more than time sufficient to procure a meal of victuals; that all places of public entertainment be required to prohibit the stay of all such persons for a longer time; and that our own citizens, except physicians, be hereafter prohibited from going to, or visiting places, near or distant, where the cholera is prevailing, unless there is absolute necessity for so doing; and that any person or persons offending against or violating any of the provisionss of this ordinance, be fined in any sum not less than 113 nor more than JflO foieach offense. This ordinance to take effect from its passage.

Delphi contintied under the regulations prescribed by its old charter until the 11th of March, 1854, when that primitive instmment was siuTendered, and became incorporated anew, under the "Act for the incorporation of towns, defining their powers," etc., approved Jiane 11. 1852. Piu-suant to the provisions of Section 12 of that act. an election was held in the several wards, on the first Monday, being the 1st day of May. 1854, the follow ing officers were chosen: George Robertson. Enoch Rinehart. Washington L. Black. Nicholas Smith and James H. Stewart, as Coimcilmen; John D. Simpson. Clerk and Treasurer; Hein-y M. Graham, Marshal and Assessor.

At the second election held tmder the new charter. May 7. 1855, the following officers were elected: Enoch Rinehai't. An drew H. Evans, James H. Dunlap and William McCain, for Councilmen; Henry M. Graham. Marshal and Assessor; Erastus W. Hubbard, Clerk and Treasurer. In 1857. there was another modification in the law governing the incorjioration of towns. .Vt an election held pursuant to the jwovisions of that law. on the first Monday in May of that yew, the result was as follows: Enoch Rinehart. Jesse R. Hemw. James P. Dugan and .^bner H. Bowen were elected Trustees: Dimiel L. Richard. Marshal and Assessor; Ai-temas Merritt. Clerk. The second election so held was on the i)d day of May, 1S58, with the following result : Abner H. Bowen. Enoch Rinehiu't. James P. Dugan. George Hob ertson and Jesse R. Hem-y were chosen Trustees; Nathaniel M, Crawford. Marshal and .\ssessor: Nathaniel Black, Clerk and Treasiu'er; John S. Case, Bernard F. Schennerhorn and A. Mi'r ritt. School Trustees.

force, and, from time to time thenceforwai-d imtil the present, it has maintained its corporate existence as such, accepting the modilications and renewals of charters as jjrescribed by the Legislature. From that period imtil a compaiatively recent date, the official representatives, by name and in their proper order, are not now obtainable, the records having been lost or destroyed.

For the year 1881, the officers elected were as follows: Mayor, Edwai-d Walker; Clerk, S. T. Noland; Treasurer, Samuel Heiland; Marshal. James Steele; Councilmen, from the First Ward, M. Haugh ; from the Second Ward, John Lathrope; and from the Third Ward. Erastus W. Hubbard.

METHODIST EPISCOPAI- CHrRCH. The Pioneer Church - iTiNERATiNe and its Results - The Introduction OF Methodism in Carroll County - Organization OF the First Churi ii .\nd its Membership - Its Subsequent Progress - Meetings in the Log Schoolhouse - Lot Donated for a Church Edifice - First Church House - KeviEw OF THE Work .\ocomflished - The Laborers, Etc.

TT appears to have been the province of this branch of the ^ Christian church to do pioneer work, since it has usually been found to be the fii'st to introduce itself into and exert a vitalizing influence among the pioneer settlers everywhere, especially in the Great West. If we scan closely the history of jjrimitive settlements in this country, it will be found, as a rule, that laborers in the home missionary department of this church have been of the first, at least, to proclaim the Gospel tidings in the homes of those who. for the time, by reason of their isolation from civilized society, had been deprived of the benefit of such spiritual ministrations. In the early settlements made along the margin of Deer Creek in the valley of the Wabash, the experiences have not been dissimilar. The principal early settlements in Carroll Coimty were made diu'ing the year 1825, aT?d a considerable portion of those settlers had been mu-tured in the doctrines and faith of the Methodist Church, or were especially friendly to its teachings. Hence it is no more than just to say that, notwithstanding the Presb^-tei ian Chiu'ch had the tirst representatives in the settlement, the Methodists, by the peculiar adaptedness of their methods in disseminating the doctrines of their chiu'ch among the people, were natiu'ally expected to take precedence in organizing its members into classes preparatory to the ultimate jjui-pose of forming a society or chiu-ch. That such were the facts touching the religious experiences here there is, perhajis. little question.

From the best information at hand, it is safe to state that, as early as the fall and winter of 1825-2() - certainly not beyond the spring and summer of the latter year - the adherents to the faith and practice of this church in Carroll County were visited and their spiritual wants administered unto by the Rev. Haekaliah Vredenbiu'gh, an itinerating minister, who, about that period, traversed, it is said, all of the settlements along the Wabash from its month upward to this territory, and beyond, by his presence and example instilling new life into the doi-maut energies of the scattered members of his church. Soon after the " Crawfordsville Mi.ssion " had been established, ministers were sent out among the new settlements to seek out and collect into classes all in those localities holding relationship to the church, for the pm-pose, at stated periods,' of delivering unto them the messages of peace, and of eventually establishing churches in their midst. Hem-y P. Buell, one of those early missionaries ' thus sent out, came and preached in the settlement, and, having I interested a sufficient number in the work to justify an organiza- ' tion. in the month of November. 1826, he organized a society com- [ posed of the following members: John Carey and Ruth Carey, his wife; Sarah Odell, Sr. ; John Odell and Sarah Odell, his wife; Thomas Stirlen and Frances Stirlen, his wife; Elizabeth j Angell, widow of Benjamin D. Angell, deceased; and Rebecca Bishop. To this society Mi-. Buell preached at stated times, about once in foiu' weeks, diu'ing the succeeding two years. In [ 1828, he was succeeded by Rev. Stephen R. Beggs, acting under the appointment of the Crawfordsville Mission, like his predecessor. The following year, a circuit was formed embracing Carroll County, to which Eli P. Farmer was appointed. Hav- I ing traveled the circuit for one year, Mi-. Fai-mer was succeeded j by Rev. Vredenbiu-gh, of whom mention has already been made as probably the first " itinerant " in this vicinity. He supplied I this society throughout the years 1830, 1831 and 1832 very ac- \ ceptably, and subsequently, it is said, became a resident citizen j of this county. He built a cabin on Sugar Creek in which to live, but did not remain long, but moved to another field of labor J resuming ministerial work, which he had temporarily suspended. His life-work was in the vineyard of his Master, and he continued in the service until, by age and physical infirmity, he was compelled to desist, when, soon after, he passed to his reward. The L'pper Wabash Mission, as laid off by the annual conference in 1832, extended from Wild Cat Creek up the Wabash River to the mouth of the Salamonie; north to the Pottawatomie Mills . - now Rochester - embracing in its circuit all the intervening settlements. To this mission Rev. Samuel C. Cooper was assigned, and, on the 22d of December of that year, the first quarterly conference was held, at the Gillam Meeting-House, in this county, at which there were present: Samuel C. Cooper, Missionary; Thomas Ciillam, Elder; Thomas Stirlen and Thomas Stoops, Leaders. ' James Ai-mstrong, Superintendent of the Missionary District, was not present. At this conference, in answer to the question, " What has been collected for the suppoet of the missionary?" John Odell's class reported $3, and Mr. Gillam's class, $2. 62 J, making a total of $5. 62 J for that purpose. Five Stewards were appointed at the same time, consisting of William M. Reybm-n, of Miamisport [Peru], Henry Stair, Thomas Stirlen, Thomas Gillam and John Rohrabaugh. Thomas Stirlen was also elected Recording Steward. Mr, Cooper, the missionary, was a man of great energy and of untiring industry, and he conl\^ tinued his work in this field until the last quarterly meeting, which was a camp-meeting, held at John Odell's camp-ground, on the 7th of September, 1833. The number of official members in the mission was stated to be seventeen, of whom ten were present.

In the fall of 1833, the Upper Wabash Mission was subdivided by setting off the settlements in Carroll and a portion of those in Tippecanoe County as a separate circuit, which was named the Carroll Circuit. In this jurisdiction. Rev. Enoch Wood was appointed circuit preacher, and James Armstrong, Presiding Elder. The first quarterly conference in the new circuit thus formed was held on the 7th of December, 1833, at Grillam's Meeting- House. The second of these conference meetings held in the circuit was on the 15th of February. 1834, at John Odell's Schoolhouse. At this meeting, Thomas Stirlen submitted for the consideration and action of the conference the following resolutions:

All the members who voted on that occasion - Enoch Wood, R. H. Hanna. Thomas Gillam, John Briggs, Benjamin Underwood. John Carey. John W. Gillam, Charles Smith, Thomas Stirlen and Henry Stair - cast their votes in favor of the resolutions, and they were declared passed. At the next meeting of the conference, these resolutions were placed in the hands of the preacher in charge, with the reqtiest that he use his best endeavors to have them adopted in each of the classes composing his circuit. They were accordingly submitted, but met with some opposition, chiefly on the ground that, by voting in favor of the resolutions, the ojiposers would sign away their individual liberty, and their right to act without restraint would be greatly impaired. The temperance element prevailed, however, and the sentiments have ever since found recognition in the regulations of the chtu'oh in this county.

The next year. Rev. Enoch Wood was succeeded in this field by Rev. Thomas Bartlett, and J. L. Thompson was made Presiding Elder. In 1835, Mr. Bartlett was succeeded by Rev. Eli Rogers as circuit preacher, the Presiding Elder continuing without change.

At the annual conference in 1836, the name of the circuit was changed from Carroll to Delphi, and Jared B. Mirshon appointed preacher in charge, no change being made in the Presiding Elder. Mr. Mirshon was re-appointed in 1837, and Rev. Allen Wiley made Presiding Elder. In consequence of the sickness of Mr. Mirshon during the three last ({uarters of his year, the place was supplied by Rev. William Campbell. During the course of this year, the first steps were taken toward the building of a house of worship in Delphi. A committee was appointed, with instructions to secure a lot upon which to erect the contemplated building. In due time, the committee reported that a lot had been secured for the purpose, subject to the conditions " that the Methodist Episcopal Church shall btiild a house of worship in Delphi within eighteen months from date" which was accepted by the conference. Pursuant to that an-angement, the lot was secured, a contract made with William Hughes, and a part of the lumber was delivered on the ground, when all the subscription and other papers connected with the construction of the building were burned' with Mr. Brandon's hotise. Subsequently, the contract withiWilliam.Hughes was canceled, when James Marsh and Thomas Smith undertook the job of building and inclosing the struchu-e. The efforts of the society were gi-eatly retarded by the loss of the papers and subscriptions, but, moving with all the facility at command, earnestly and tnistfuUy, the house was finally so far completed as to be tenable, in the year 1840, the Baptist friends, in the meantime, having given them the use of their house during two or three quarterly meetings. The other meetings were held in the old log schoolhouse.

M'hen the church first began to be used as a place of meeting, there were no seats in it, and the congregation had to use stake benches to sit upon until better could be procured. This difficulty was finally overcome, but. at the completion of the building, the society found itself involved in a debt of considerable magnitude, which, feeling itself unable to pay at once, a subscription paper was drawn up, as follows: "We, the undersigned, agree to pay the several sums by us subscribed, annually, for the purpose of liquidating the debt against the Tiiistees of the Methodist Episcopal Chtu-ch of Delphi." By this process, in the course of time, the debt was paid, and the society, thus relieved of its biu'den.

In Octcber. 1838, Rev. J. J. Cooper was appointed circuit preacher, and George M. Beswick, Presiding Elder. Rev. A. Beach became circuit preacher in October, 1839, Mr. Beswick continuing to be Presiding Elder divring that and the year succeeding, when Revs. Joseph White and Samuel Reed were the preachers. In 1841, however, Rev. C. M. Holliday took the place of Mr. Beswick, while Revs. William M. Fraley and James Newland were the preachers. Revs. D. Chijiman and J. Casad were placed upon the circuit in October, 1842. with Mr. Holliday as Presiding Elder.

At the session in October, 1843, Delphi Circuit was organized, with Delphi Station. F. Taylor was appointed to Delphi Circuit, and A. Wood made Presiding Elder. Rev. C. Swank being placed over the societies at Delphi and at Odell's. Hemy B. Milroy was elected Recording Steward at the first quarterly meeting, held in Delphi January 13, 1844. Mi'. Swank, of this station, at the end of the third quarter.

A change was made in Delphi Station, by uniting it with Delphi Circuit, in 1844-45. and it was afterward known as the Delphi Circuit, with Allen Skillman as circuit preacher, and Samuel C, Cooper, Presiding Elder. Mr, Cooper held the position of Presiding Elder in 1845-46, while Rufus J. Blowers was in charge of the circuit. In 1840 - 47, Jacob Casad. was the circuit preacher, and J, M, Stallard, Presiding Elder. In the next succession, Jacob Colclaser was circuit preacher, the Presiding Elder continuing as in the yeai' ])receding. Mr. Stallard remained in the same position the following yeai-, 1848-49, while J. W. PaiTitt was in chai'ge of Del]ihi Circuit. In 1849-50, Delphi and Pittsburg were organized as a separate charge.

Several years since, the old chm-ch edifice was removed, and a magnificent struettu'e of brick, modernized in all its appointments, now 'occupies its place. It is finely situated, and every way creditable to its projectors. Its dimensions are such that it affords ample accommodations and seating room for the nmuerons congregation assembling there for ptiblic worship. Long ago' Delphi was made a station, imd has since enjoyed the pastoral sei-vices of many very excellent preachers, among whom we men tion the names of Prof. Philander B. Wiley, Dr. J. A. Reed, John Eddy, N. L. Braekman and others. The present Pastor is Rev. J, H. Claypool, An excellent Sunday school is under his charge, also.

PRESBYTERIAN CHrRCH. Fakly Repkeskntatives or this Faith in Cakroll County- First Steps Toward Organization - The Original Members AND First Ministers - Progress ok the Chi'rch - Meetings and Meeting Houses - Some of the Early Church Officers - Another Branch of the Church Established- Churih Property - Church Edifices, Etc. ^T^HE first settlers of this county, HetLni' Kobinson and his f am- -L iiy, were of the Presbyterian faith, and early observers of the rit^s peculiar to that branch of the Christian church. In addition to this family, there were many others, also, among the first settlers, who recognized the same observances, and little less active in possessing themselves of the privileges of public worship within the limits of the settlement. On the Ist day of January, 1826, as has been elsewhere presented, the religious sentiment of the community distinctly manifested itself in the readiness with which all united in holding prayer-meetings, and in keeping them up aft*rwai-d. for the common interest of all who were thus inclined. At that time, the number of families in the immediate vicinity was not great, and there were few of them, indeed, if any, that were not represented at that tii'st general prayer-meeting. That the foremost of those who interested themselves in bringing about such an event were chiefly, though not entii-ely. if not members of, at least favorable to, the teachings of this branch of the Christian church. These general prayer-meetings had a tendency to enlai'ge the domain of religious thought, directing all into the channels best adapted to the wants of their moral and intellectual nature. At the proper time, teachers came and tendered their ministrations with such success that, erelong, societies were foi-med for purposes of worship according to the preferences accepted by themselves. Who the first teachers of this doctrine were that came from abroad to instruct those of like faith in this backwoods settlement, is, perhaps, not now material. That such teacher or teachers came, there is no doubt, for the result of such effort is shown in what was accomplished by Revs. James Crawford and James Thompson, sent out by the Crawfordsville Presbytery to organize " The Presbyterian Chiu'chof .Deer Creek." The organization was perfected by these ministei-s on the 23d of May, 1828, being the tii-st organized on the Upper Wabash. This name it retained until the 22d of January, 1833. when, by consent of the members, and in conformity with the prescribed regulations of the church, it took the name of " The First Presbyterian Church of Delj^hi." The persons who constituted the original membership of this church were Henry Robinson and Elizabeth Robinson, his wife; Abner Robinson and Sai-ah Robinson, his wife; William McCord: John M. Ewing: JaneWaugh; Aaion Dewey and Charlotte Dewey, his wife: William Wilson and Ann Wilson, his wife, with the addition of Sarah Robinson, Sophronia Robinson and Lydia Ann Robinson, daughters of Hemy and Elizabeth Robinson; Mrs. Rebecca McCord, wife of William MeCord. and Hugh Manary - making, in all, sixteen.

Hem7 Robinson and William McCord. when the ehm-ch had been fully organized, were chosen Ruling Elders, and continued such for many years. Without delay, the services of Mi-. Crawford were seciu-ed as a stated supply to preach to the congregation, and, during the succeeding six years, until 1834, he continued in that relation, within that time receiving into the chm-ch twenty-five additional members. Of those who were in fellowship with the church from the beginning uj3 to the time

Mr. Crawford severed his connection with it, two had died, and four had been dismissed to other chm-ches, leaving an absolute membership of thirty-five - a most satisfactory result of his six years of consecutive labor.

While Mr. Crawford was the Pastor of this church, he piu' chased a lot and built thereon a log house, one of the first dwellings erected in Delphi, which was then a general hazel thicket. This humble dwelling was torn down many years ago, and the site occupied by the more stately mansion of S. D. Mcintosh. For several years, the meetings of the congregation were held in the old log schoolhouse built by Deer Creek Township in the winter of 1828-29, which served the pm-pose of a meeting-place in its time for not only the religious organizations, but for all congi'egations, whether for secular or other piu'poses.

After the retirement of Mi-. Crawford, the society was for a time without a Pastor, though meetings were held with considerable regularity. In February, 1836, Rev. John Stocker was employed by the congi'egation to preach for them until the 1st of April, 1837. No other pastor appears to have been employed until the beginning of the year 1839, when Rev. Leander Cobb was engaged as a stated supply, and remained with the church until after the division into the " Old School " and the " New School." which occm-red in the fall of that year. From the date of the separation, the Old School branch, during the succeeding five years until October. 18-14, there was no regular supply. Afterward, and until in the spring of 1846. the church enjoyed the labors of Rev. Jesse Edwards, who preached here a portion of that time.

In May, 1846, Rev. Edward W. Wright became the pastor of the Old School Church, and continued such during the succeeding twenty years, at the end of which time he was succeeded, for the three years following, by his son. Rev. W. S. Wright, who, in turn, was succeeded by Rev. G. G. Mitchell.

" For two years or more. Rev. Amos Jones was acting pastor of the New School Church, having been preceded by Rev. J. A. Carnahan and others. The successor of Mr. Jones was Rev. C. W. Wallace. In 1870, the two churches were united in one. The lu-st minister of the united church was the Rev. W. W. Campbell, and the second was Rev. L. M. Stevens. "

The first house of worship occupied by the New School branch of the church was the large frame edifice that many years ago stood to the northward of Enoch Rinehart' s residence, erected about the year 1838-39. It was so occupied by them until the year 1859, when they erected a handsome brick house, which was subsequently occupied by them for a series of yeai's.

Not long since, the Old School branch erected a new church, of brick, with greater seating capacity than heretofore, rendered necessary by the united congregai ions worshiping there. Since April, 1880, this church has been under the pastoral charge of Rev. S. R. Seawright. who has shown himself to be a very efficient laborer in this field.

In connection with the church and under its supervisory care is a Sunday school, which, while it adds to the res]>onsibilities of the chm-ch, it is a most valuable auxiliary also.

Chaptee Iii First Baptist Church

Officers Pro tem - Original Members and Their Titles to Recognition - Early Meetings - Lot for Church Applied FOR and Donated. - Meetings of Associations Held Here- First Pastoi;s - Subsequent History - etc.

TN the latter part of July, 1829, a number of persons, members -*- of the Regular Baptist Chiu-ch in other jiu'isdietions, who, having become residents of CaiToll County and vicinity, had prociu-ed letters of recommendation to those of like faith in this jui'isdiction to the end that they might unite with such in the formation of a chiu-ch here, and thus eujoy the privileges of public worship in their own neighborhood, made application to the proper authority for consent to foim a chiu'ch in this county, requesting the necessaiy attendance of church officers and delegates for the purpose. The consent was obtained accordingly, and ou the 8th of August following a council of delegates was held, composed of the representatives named, to wit: Jacob Kester, A. B. Martin and James Duncan, from Sugar Creek Chiu'ch. in Boone County; Elder R. Stapleton, David Kuth and Michael Donahoe, from Bethel Chiu'ch; and J. F. Martin, Newbeny Stockton and Elder Samuel Ai-thiu-, from the First Baptist Chiu'ch in Wea, Tippecanoe County. The council was organized by electing Elder Stapleton, Moderator, and A. B. Martin. Clerk. The covenant of faith which had been signed by the applicants Ijeing read, with their letters of recommendation, in open council, the following persons, with their foimer affiliation - John Knight. Abigail Knight. Elsa Green. Hannah Green and Sarah Hance, from the Baptist Church of Staunton. Ohio; William Hance and Isabel Cox, from Lick Creek Chm-ch, Marion County. Ohio, were accepted, and, in compliance with their re quest, constituted a Regular Baptist Chiu'ch in Delphi.

The fii-st meeting of the congregation of this chiu-ch was in the mouth of September following. Afterward, for many years, the chm-ch met for the transaction of business and for pui'i>oses of worship in the log schoolhouse on the corner of Mom'oe and Union streets, the site now occupied l.>y the residence of the late William Baruett. The first Pastor was Elder Martin, of the Sugar Creek Chm-ch in Boone County. Then Elder Ai-thur, of the Wea Church, became Pastor, and continued in that relation until the 22d of December, 1882. when Elder William Reese, having removed to Carroll County, entered into that relation, and was the third [lastor, a man of gi-eat executive ability and energy of character. During his administration, upon application of some of the more influential membera. the County Commissioners donated a fractional lot. equal in area to nearly two full lots, in the then eastern limits of the to-wu, for the benefit of the Regular Baptist Chm-ch in Delphi, upon which to build a meeting-house; and the county agent was directed to make that church " a deed in fee simple" for said lot. " ou condition of the said church l)uilding a house of worship [thereon] within two years," Sul)- sequently, at the March session. 1838, of the Board of Commissioners, the following record was made in the premises, to wit: " Ordered, that the agent of Carroll County l)e directed to make a deed to the two fractional lots on which the Baptist Church is situated in Delphi to the Tiiistees of the First Regular Baptist Church in Delphi."

the Commissioners, the church, at a meeting held on the 13th of April, 1833, elected Lewis Johnson and John Knight, Trustees, with instructions to secm-e to the chm-ch the benefits of that donation by complying with the conditions prescribed. These TiTistees moved forward in the execution of their trust with all the available means and energy at command, so that, within three years from the commencement of their work, a respectable brick structure, capable of seating three or fom- himdi-ed persons, was ready for oocnpaney, and it was occupied accordingly.

Elder J. H. Dunlap became Pastor in December, 1840, and continued to minister to the oongi-egation for something more than one year. He was succeeded, on the 12th of March, 1842, by Elder William Reese, who had formerly sustained that relation most satisfactorily to the church and creditably to himself. " For his indomitable corn-age and energj' in traveling and preaching the Gospel to the destitute, his labors of love and mercy, and his genial social qualities, his memory is worthy of a tribute of respect " as endm-ing as the cause he so earnestly espoused and advocated. He was indeed " the gi-eat pioneer missionary of the Upper Wabash Valley." At the end of one year, less about one month. Elder Bowen, on the 11th of February, 1843, took upon himself the pastoral relation, but, remaining only a few months, he was succeeded by Elder Watrous on the 8th of September of the same year.

In November, 1844, Elder Demas Robinson was chosen Pastor, and, as such, served the chm-ch dming the three years following. At the end of that time. Elder S. H. Dimlap, previously in charge, became Pastor again in January, 1848, laboring in that position for the next thi-ee years and a half, at which time another pastor was chosen - tlllder Searf. his successor, taking the place on the 2fith of July, 1853.

November, 1854, Elder F. D. Bland became Pastor; then in December, 1856, Elder Blodgett was Pastor. Februai-y, 1858, Elder Humble Roble became Pastor, and served in that relation for more than three years. He was succeeded, in Februai-y, 1862. by Elder J. W. C. Covy. His successor was Elder Post, who became Pastor in December, 1863. In Jime, 1865, Elder Stuart became Pastor, and remained with the chm-ch during the next thi-ee years, April, 186SI, Elder A. Alfred became Pastor, and served the remainder of the year. In January, 1870, Elder G. L, Stevens succeeded him, and served for the thi-ee years following. On the 26th of April, 1874. Elder O, A, Clark was called to the pastoral charge of the church.

From that date, the chm-ch has been frequently witliout a pastor, although services are had with comparative regularity. It has no pastor now, but a good Sunday school in active operation.

St. Marys Protestant Episcop.Vl Church

&1T. MARY'S Chm-ch, Delphi, was consecrated on the 2l8t ' day of May, 1845, by Rev. Samuel R. Johnson, of St. John's Church, La Fayette, Ind. Prior to this date, occasional services had been conducted by the Rev, Mi-. Johnson, and the Rev. Benjamin Halstead performed the tii-st baptismal ceremony here, on the 16th of March, 1844. John Bm-r, Susan Bmr, Mi-s. Mai-y Daubeny, Newton H. Gist, Amelia A. Gist, Caroline Robinson,

Jane Howlitt Wilson, Sarah Stewart, John Phelps, Rhoda Phelps, Christian Stxizaker, Sarah Garrett, Sai-ah Ann Bladen and Zerua Amelia Green were added to the chiu-ch under the ministrations of the Rev. Mr. Johnson, of La Fayette, and Rev. Anson Clark, of Logansport, dui'ing the yeare 1844 and 1845. James P. Dugan, James Speai-s, Christian Stiizaker, John Biut and John Phelps were the first VestnTnen of the chvuTh.

The Rev. IVIr. Johnson took a deep and active interest in the church at Delphi, and not only contributed his sei-vices gratuitously, but donated a generous sum of money for the piu'chase of ground upon which to erect the chm-ch and parsonage. Some time in 1840, the congregation began the erection of the present frame chiu'ch. at the west end of Main street, and, on the 20th day of July of that year, the Vestrymen tendered an invitation to the Rev. Dr. Biyan B. Killikelly, of Vincennes, Ind. , to officiate as Pastor of the ohui-ch. Dr. Killikelly accepted the call, and removed to Delphi in October, 1840. Shortly afterward, the church received a new token of the interest taken in its welfare by the Rev. Mr. Johnson. This was a donation of $125 from that gentleman, for the pwchase of the lot adjoining the chiu-ch lot, " whereon to build a parsonage house whenever it might be convenient. " Upon receipt of this donation, it was unanimously resolved by the vestry " that the thanks of this vestry be tendered to the Rev. S. R. Johnson for this fresh evidence of continued interest in the welfare of the parish of St. Mai-y's Church; and the vestry avail themselves of this opportunity to express ^arther the gi-eat indebtedness of the parish to the said reverend gentleman for his ministerial services, gi-atuitously rendered for a long period from the first organization, and for the munificent donation of 1000 from himself, and $100 procui-ed thi-ough his agency, without which the vestry would not have felt justified in proceeding with the erection of the chiu-ch edifice now erecting, and, it is hoped, long to remain a proud monument of the untiring zeal and Chi-istian liberality of the Rev. S. R. Johnson. "

Dr. Killikelly had pastoral charge of the chui-ch until compelled to resign by failing health his resignation taking efl'ect July 1, 1848. He was succeeded by the Rev. Edward Magee, who continued as pastor of the chui'ch until 1850. Rev. Josiah Phelps became Pastor in that year, and occupied that relation until June 1, 1851, when he resigned. On the 29th of October, 1852, Rev. Walter E. Franklin accepted a call to seiwe as Pastor, dividing his time between this chm-ch and the chm-ch at Logansport He resigned July 0, 1854, and was succeeded by the Rev. Alonzo J. M. Hudson, who devoted each alternate Sunday to this parish. Mr. Hudson resigned August 1, 1858, and was succeeded by Rev. Elias Birdsall, who continued as pastor imtil the early part of I860. In February, 1860. the Rev. Nathaniel R. High accepted a call from the vesti-y of St. Mary's Chm-ch, giving onehalf of his time to this parish, and the remainder to the chm-ch at Logansport. Rev. Samuel Edson was invited to take charge of the chm-ch in June, 1864, and accepted the call. He subsequently resigned the charge, and was succeeded by Rev. J. Edward Jackson, who took charge May 16. 1866, remaining imtil the following September, when he resigned. On the 25th of March, 1867, Rev. Thomas J. Taylor accepted the call of the vestry and had pastoral care of the parish imtil June 15, 1869, when he tendered his resignation. On Uie 29th of Jime, 1871, the vestry accepted the proposition of Rev. A. V. GoiTell to eonduct sei-vices twice a month on week-day evenings, and once a month on Sunday. In December, 1872, a call was extended to Rev. Levi B. Stimson, of La Fayette, Ind. , which was accepted,

Ml-. Stimson continuing in cliarge of th<' parish until Noveml)er 16. 1870. when he resigned. Rev. D. Ij. Trimble was engaged, in December, 1878, to devote one half of his time to this jiarish, the remainder being devoted to the church at Peru. He served until October, 1879, since which time the church lias been without a regular pastor. In the interim, however. Kcv. J. E. Martin, of La Fayette, has conducted services at irregtiliir intervals.

ST. .lOiSKPH's c.VTiioi.ic riniicii nPHE Ih-st organization of this church as a congregation in -*- Delphi was about the year 1855, during the consb-uetion of the Wabash, St. Louis & Pacific Railway. Prior to the jjerma nent organization, different missionary priests traveling along the line of the canal visited the Catholic families and held services in their houses. The Pastor that first organized the congregation was the Rev. M. Clark, at that time the jiriest in charge at La Fayette, who, during his visits, celebrated religious services, principally at the house of the late Mrs. Shealey, who, togetheiwith her family of sons, lived in the old Delphi House. In the year 1857, the Rev, Father Nieber was, by the Bishop of Vin cennes, assigned to the charge of this congregation. Shortly after his an-ival, lie pm-chased from the Board of School Trustees the old brick schoolhouse on Indiana sti-eet, which was used for church jim-poses during his pastorate. After his removal, the Rev. D. Mahoney. of La Fayette, attended the congregation once a month.

" Up to this time, the State of Indiana possessed but one Catholic diocese, with the Episcopal See at Vincennes. In 1859, the diocese was divided, and a new see created at Fort Wayne, having for its first Bishop the Rt. Rev. J. H. Luers, formerly Pastor of St. .Joseph's Chm-ch, Cincinnati. Delphi, being on the northern part of the division line, was therefore placed tmder the jurisdiction of the new Bishop, who, having determined to build up the congregation under his charge, assigned j the Rev. Father Veahy, an able and talented man, to the charge of St. Joseph's congregation. He at unce began the building of j the present beautiful church edifice, but did not remain long enough to complete his work, having been appointed to a more important charge. Father Veahy was succeeded by the Rev. A. Bochtering, who, though quite a young man, possessed an inter- 1 esting energy, and was tilled with zeal and devotion to his church: and to him. in a great ineasm-e, are our Catholic friends indebted for the present beautiful chm-ch, situated on the corner of Washington and Mom-oe streets. It was dm-iug his pastorate, besides, that the schoolhouse was built, immediately at the rear j of the chm-ch. He having been appointed by the late lamented j Bishop Luers to the charge of Mishawaka. St. Joseph Coimty, I was succeeded by the Rev. Timothy O' Sullivan, who was like. j wise untiring in his efforts to build up the congregation. We j can confidently say that no minister of the Gospel had more friends in Delphi than did Father Timothy O' Sullivan a genial I gentleman and scholar. It was during his administration that I the present beautiful pastoral residence on Washington street ! was built. In 1870, when his health began to fail him, he ob- I tained from his Bishop a leave of absence to visit Em-0|3e, in order t/j regain, if possible, his shattered health. After a year's I absence, he retmned, with his health improved, and was assigned by his present Bishop, Joseph Dwenger, to the charge of the Irish Catholic Church at La Porte, Ind. Eev. J. Quinlan, recently of Union City, this State, became his successor, and remained until 1872, when he was removed, and was succeeded by Rev. P. M. Frowley. who remained in charge until March, 1875. The present energetic and talented pastor of St. Mary's Chui'ch, La Fayette, became his successor, but he remained only one month, having received the appointment of St. Mary's, La Fayette, upon the death of Father George Hamilton. After him, the congi-egation was assigned to the present Pastor, Rev. John Bleckman, under whose administration the congi-egation has gotten along prosperously. The numerical strength of the congi-egation is about one hundi-ed and fifty families. The school, which is now and has been very successfully taught, numbers from one hundi-ed and thirty to one huncked and fifty daily attendance."

Besides this, there is a sodality for the married ladies, numbering about one hundred or more; that for the unman'ied, about forty or fifty. In addition to these, the little girls' sodality has a very respectable membersliip. Connected with the congi'egation is also the Total Abstinence Society, of which the late Hon. B. B. Daily was for a long time President; also, a German Benevolent Society, of which Joseph Haok was I'resident. These two organizations have constantly received new additions to their membershi)!, and are productive of much good. Other associations, also, have been formed for the general improvement of all classes of the congregation, especially the young people, which have had a tendency to give strength and permanency to the very efficient work performed through these instrumentalities. Father Bleckman is still the Pastor of St. Joseph's Church, and is accomplishing much good.