Cass County, Indiana - The whole text, 1878 (part 4 of 6)

The first school house in the township was built on the Hyman farm about the year 1840. The first school held in the new house was taught by Josiah Brown. Soon after this, Milton Jerrett taught a school in the same place. When the population had increased suf¬ ficiently to demand it, a second school house was built on the Holland farm, and also, at an early date, a third on the Poundstone farm.

The township was organized July 26, 1842. Soon after the per¬ fecting of this organization, an election was held at Holland's. John Grist is thought to have been the first Justice of the Peace, while John Mcllwain and Thompson Vaughn served at an early date in the capacity of Township Trustees.

In March, of the year 1841, there was born to Z. Reagan and wife a daughter, who was probably the first white child born in the township. About the same time, a son, Josiah, was born to Jo¬ seph Neff and wife.

In the line of casualties, perhaps nothing has occurred in the his¬ tory of the township which has so aroused her citizens, as the attempted murder of Abraham Johnson. This is of recent occur¬ rence, having transpired in 1877, and is accordingly fresh in the minds of all. It is not our province here to give details, but to state facts briefly and concisely as possible.

On a certain day in the latter part of the year named above, Mr. Johnson, having been on business a short distance from Young America (his home), was returning thither, when he was met, about a mile west of said village, by three men in a spring wagon, who claimed to have some machinery which they were very desirous that he (Johnson) should examine. While preparations were being made for showing said machinery, Mr. J. suddenly received a heavy blow on the head, which no doubt was intended by the giver to be a fatal one, the effect of which was to render him unconscious for many hours. When consciousness returned, Mr. Johnson found himself in a hollow log. From this, after much difficulty, he extricated himself, and finally succeeded in reaching a house where he was cared for, and sot.-n taken to his home. For some time he lay in a critical condition, but finally recovered. At the time the assault was made, Mr. John¬ son was supposed to have considerable money in his possession. Sev¬ eral arrests have been made, but in each case the parties arrested have successfully proved their innocence.

In considering the progress Deer Creek has made in the way of improvements, we must take into consideration the late date at which her lands came into market; yet, so well has she played her part in this respect that the stranger passing through Cass County would scarcely believe Deer Creek ten or twelve years younger than many of her sister townships.

Young America

The proprietors of this enterprising town were Laban Thomas, John Roush, Lewis Hyman and Robert Hinton. It was laid out about 1856. Its business men at present are as follows: M. B. Marris, dry goods, etc.; J. G. Johnson, grocery; L. W. Coin, drug¬ gist; H. N. Turley, grocery; Philip Wykle, wagon maker; Theodore Kreseen, blacksmith; B. F. Rhodes, grist-mill; Abraham Johnson, saw-mill; Abner Ratcliff, planing mill; William Hunter, shoemaker; Edward Montgomery, shoemaker; J. T. Snodgrass, tinner; Robert Hunter, undertaker; A. C. Walter, harness maker; Robert Cum¬ mins, hotel; physicians are D. C. Barnett; I. A. Cooper and A. B. Strode. One church, Christian or Disciple ; one school house. Pop¬ ulation, about 225.

The township being situated in the extreme southeastern part of the county and being wholly in the " Great" or " Miami Reserva¬ tion," did not come into market until other parts of Cass County (especially in the vicinity of Logansport) were being rapidly brought into a state of cultivation.

In November, 1841, Richard R. Howard (who had been a citi¬ zen of Harrison Township since 1833, and still, the year previous, a citizen of Noble Township) moved into what is now Jackson Town¬ ship. Howard was a great hunter and fisher, and as the deep forests were advantageous to his calling, he hesitated not to sell his claims in the older township and settle in the new. Despite the hardships undergone in those early years, Mr. H., by reason of strength, is yet spared and is making his home; at present, with his son, Nelson, who is living upon the farm where Mr. Howard first settled.

Mr. H. informs us that at the time he moved, there was but one family living within the borders of what is now Jackson. That was the family of James Dixon, who lived upon the farm now owned by Samuel B. Sprinkle. Mr. Dixon had moved the April previous (1841), and hence has the honor of being the first white man in the township.

A settlement now being commenced, the following year, 1842, a number of well-to-do men were added to the little colony. They were Israel Bickell, who came early in the year and settled on the the land owned, at present, by Robert Williams and I. V. Canine; Daniel Flinn, who came a little later the same year, and fixed his home on the Ramsey farm ; Hezekiah Frush, on the land belonging to Canine; Jacob Myers, on the Fickle farm ; David Kemp, on the farm owned by his widow; John Flinn, on the George Staffer farm ; Thomas Morgan, on the I. V. Canine tract of land ; Freeman Dag¬ gett, on the Fickle farm; David Bickell, on the farm belonging to Thomas Morgan; Henry Bickell, on what is now the Williamson Wright farm, and William Frush on the Joseph Graves land.

In 1843, came the following: David McCalley, who settled on the present site of Galveston; Elisha Garrett, on the Joshua Garrett farm; William_ Stanley, on the Bickell farm ; Isaac Windom, on what is now the Lewis Wample farm; David Bell, on the farm belonging to Mr. Adams; a gentleman by the name of Thomas, on the Emrick farm; James Bell, on the farm owned by his son William; William Dale, on the Joseph Graves farm ; Daniel Fickle, on the Daggett farm ; Christian Howdyshell, on the farm belonging to Mr. Stauffer; William Murphy, on the Joseph Gray farm, and James Wind, on what is now the Absalom Boring farm.

After 1844, the township began to be rapidly settled. Among those who came soon after that time with others, whose exact date and place of settlement are to us unknown, we name James Hayworth (probably came as early as 1842); the Grays, Samuel B. Sprinkle, Joseph Parks, William Tracy, Robert Williams, James Graves, N. Jump, I. V. Canine, Joseph Graves, Dr. J. C. Loop, Dr. T. Bald¬ win, R. S. McW r illiams and Joshua Barnett. The latter is one of the oldest men of the county.

The first religious meeting in the township was held at Richard Howard's in 1842 by the Disciples, or Christians, a Mr. George Smith preaching. The next denomination was the United Brethren, who held meeting the year following (1843) in private families, Mr. Doolittle being their preacher. The next denomination was the Methodists.

The first church was built by the Methodists in 1849 or '50, and known as the "Sprinkle Chapel." The next church was by the United Brethren, in Galveston, soon after.

The first school house was built on the William Stanley farm, where Bickell now lives, about the year 1843. Mr. John M. Jackson taught the first school held in the new house.

The township was organized June 6, 1847. The first election was held soon after at the cabin of William Frush, now the Canine farm. At this election, Thomas, who is still a citizen of the township, acted as Inspector. The first Justice of the Peace was Daniel Kemp. Thomas Patterson also held this office at an early date. Richard Howard was one of the first Township Trustees; the names of the other township officers have been forgotten.

The first person to engage in the milling business was John Sprinkle, who built a saw mill on the south prong of Deer Creek, about 1846 or '47. A man by the name of Hiatt also built a saw-mill on the same stream at an early date.

The first death was that of William Dale, caused from cutting his foot, which occurred in the year 1843 or '44. The first marriages and births are not remembered by our informants.

In the way of improvements, considering the late date at which the white man began to fell her forests, Jackson has indeed made rapid progress. Her farms are generally well improved, with a goodly number of substantial dwellings. Her churches, with name and location, may be seen by reference to the township map found on another page of the Atlas. Her schoolhouses are - ; enrolled school children, - .

Lincoln

is situated in the north-central part, and was laid out by Theodore Lincoln, about the year 1855. It contains at present the following business houses: Howard Shanks, general merchant; Bell & Sou, saw¬ mill ; William Tracy, cooper shop ; J. H. Doyle, miller; Dr. Lester, physician and surgeon; Albert Rhea, blacksmith; on church - Methodist; one school house and a post office, H. Shanks, Postmaster. The town is a station on the line of the P., C. & St. L. Railroad.

a thriving village and a town of much enterprise, is situated in the southeastern part of the township, on the line of the P., C. & St L. Railroad. It was laid out in 1854 by James Carter. Its first mer¬ chants were B. 0. Spencer and Mr. Hay. The business men at present are as follows: M. H. I homas & Sons, dry goods, etc.; John Turley, dry goods, etc.; Z. W. Loop, druggist; G. W. William,druggist; A. J. Shirley, stoves and tinware; Thomas McGovern, groceries; M. II. Thomas & Sons, grist-mill; B. L. King, saw-mill and pump factory; J. H. Eisenbrey, harness and shoe shop ; Thomas Flinn, shoe shop; William Russ, carpenter and joiner; A. B. Rule, blacksmith; George Page, blacksmith; John Crisler, meat market; Noah Ault, cooper shop; John Keever, broom factory;William Koup, cabinet maker.

Mollie Lytle, millinery; G. M. Shaffer, hotel; Jacob Collins, wagon maker; B. M. Arnell, sign painter; Croft & Smith, gallery; Geo. Davis, railroad agent.

Under the above name we have to record a brief history of one of the largest, and, we may say, in some respects the best township in Cass County.

The name Tipton was given the township in memory of General John Tipton. Its dense, but fertile forests, covered with an abundant growth of sugar, poplar and walnut, all indicative of a deep, rich soil, were unbroken by the white man until the year 1838. In that year came John D. Forgy and James Cook.. They pre-empted the land and built cabins, the first in the township, upon the farm now owned by Joseph Shaft. In a short time, however, becoming dissat¬ isfied with their location, they removed to Logansport.

A little later in the same year, 1838, Lewis Conner and Allen Wilson, sturdy, energetic men, such as would in nowise be discour¬ aged by the beginning Forgy and Cook had made, concluded to try their fortunes in the woods of what was afterward Tipton Town¬ ship. Conner fixed his home on what is now the Gish farm, while Wilson settled on the farm belonging to Mr. Shaft.

The same year, 1838, "Bill" Vandeveer, as he was familiarly called, settled on the Henry Puterbaugh farm. He was fond of hunt¬ ing, to which he gave most of his time, making little attempt at im¬ provements of any kind.

In the Fall of 1839, Col. William Scott settled on what is known as the Leggett farm. The same Fall, Andrew Wilson, who had been a citizen of Miami Township since the year 1833, living upon the Henry M. Edson farm, sold his claim there, and moved into Tipton, locating on the farm where he is still living. He is the only survivor of those who had made a settlement up to that time. A little later in the same year, 1839, William Wilson settled on the Blinn farm ; Ja¬ cob Richardson, on the farm which still bears the same name; Curtis Fidler, on the farm belonging to Henry Ullery ; Archibald McGrue, on the Jacob Humbert farm ; and Moses Barnett, on the land owned by the heirs of John Fry. In 1840, came Thompson McGrue, who settled on what is now the Louthain farm ; William and Wesley De¬ mos, on the J. W. Miller farm ; James Tucker, on the land belong¬ ing to Levi Snider; Joseph Snell, on the farm of Samuel Snell; David Ripley, on the E. Roderick farm; Noah Vandeveer, on what is now the Sharts farm ; William Rowan, on what is known at present as the Philips farm ; William P. Louthain, on the Leggett tract of land ; Lewis Whittaker, on the Garmer farm ; John Halian, on the farm

Those of 1841 were as follows: Samuel and David Puterbaugh, who settled in July of that year, in the eastern part of the township, on the beautiful and well improved farms in the fertile valley of Pipe Creek, where they are still living; Peter C. Berry, on the Finley Reed farm; Vincent and Joseph Louthain, on the farm owned by Mr. Leggett; John Merritt, on the land belonging to William Stauf¬ fer; David Whitsell, on the widow Hahan farm ; John Ladd, on the farm the present property of George Kesling; I. Harris, on the Peter Kesling farm; and Christian C. Army, on what is now the Marion Young farm.

In 1842, James Mays settled upon the farm where he is now liv¬ ing. Others of the same year were D. K. Smith, who settled on the farm belonging to his heirs; Joseph Kulb, on the farm where he lives; and N. B. Knight,-on the George Kesling farm.

Among those who came in 1843, we name Joseph Bennett, the Olivers, Jesse Carr, Moses Bennett, William D. Fields, David Baker and Lane Anderson.

In 1846, William P. Thomas, a man who has manifested much interest in the affairs of the township, settled on the farm which he still owns. Others of the same year'were Anthony Hiller, James Lewis, James Louthain, John C. Leffel and John Ullery.

j After 1847, the population of the township began to increase i so rapidly that we shall be content with naming a few who came soon after that time, with some who were in the township, perhaps, at an earlier date; Dudley Madden, who had been a citizen of Clay Township for thirteen years previous; Harrison Wilson, Jesse Hass, Samuel Lowman, Oliver Waite and William Nicholes.

The first religious meeting in the township was in a little cabin on the Andrew Wilson farm, by the Methodists, in 1842. The preacher was Allen Skillman. The following year, 1843, the first church organization was perfected by this denomination at the house of David Baker - Rev. R. Calbert preaching. William Ricketts and John Leach were also early preachers of the same denomination.

The next denomination was the Christians, or Disciples, who held their meetings at William Nelson's about 1845. Mr. Nelson himself did their preaching.

The first church was a hewed log structure built by the United Brethren, in 1852, on the Henry Snell farm. The .next house of worship was by the same denomination, soon after, on the Tucker farm, and known as the "Seven-Mile Church." The next church was in Walton, by the Lutherans; the next was by the Methodists, in 1870, and another by the Universalists, a little later. In 1872, the Christians, or Disciples, built, near Lewisburg, a neat, substantial brick church.

The first school 4n the township was taught by a Mr. Heathener, in the Winter of 1842 and '43, in a cabin on the Allen Wilson farm. The Winter following, 1843 and '44, another school was taught on the Andrew Wilson farm, by L. F. Bowyer. In 1844, the first school house in the township was built on the Allen Wilson farm, Soon after this date, others were built in various parts of the township.

The township was organized May 3, 1840. The first election was held at the cabin of Andrew Wilson soon after the perfecting of said organization. At this election, Thomas McGrue, an esteemed citizen, acted as Inspector, a position he held for many years. The first Justice of the Peace was William Wilson. The first School Trustees were Oliver Waite, William P. Thomas, and William Nicholes.

The first mill in the township was built by Samuel and David Puterbaugh, in the Fall of 1841. This was a saw-mill, with corncracker attached. It commenced running in the Winter of 1841 and 1842. We need hardly say it was highly prized by the pioneer who, previous to this, was compelled to go to Logansport for his lumber and grinding.

In 1850, another saw-mill was built on the Costenborder farm, by George Sharts. The year following, 1851, a third saw-mill was built by Elihu Plummer. The first grist-mill was built by Thomas K. Hansberry. The next was by John Costenborder. In 1872, a steam grist-mill was started in Walton by D. P. Cromer. At present there are in the township seven saw, and three grist-mills.

Pipe Creek is the principal water course of the township. Along its entire course are found immense beds of limestone; some having the appearance of marble. Fossils of considerable value are also found near this stream.

In an early day, at whatis known as " Pipe Creek Falls," were found extensive dens of rattlesnakes. These, in the Spring of the year, as they came out to sun, were shot by the pioneers, who thought it fine sport.

At an early date in the history of the township, a few bears were found occasionally within her borders. In the Winter of 1842, one of these animals was killed by William Scott and William Wilson. It is said the former gentleman was so proud of his achievement he carried a paw of the bear in his pocket for some time, in order that doubting parties might be convinced.

The first death was Winfield, a son of William Scott, which occurred in 1844. Soon after this the father, William Scott, died. They were both buried in the " Little Deer Creek Cemetery."

Tipton Township, beyond a doubt, possesses a larger acreage of fertile land than any township in Cass County. As is known to all, it is from the soil we draw our wealth. Hence, many of her citizens have been prospered financially, and are able to make such improve¬ ments as their tastes may dictate. The township in nearly every respect is well-improved. Her churches number, at present, seven, viz.: two Methodist, two United Brethren, one Christian, one Universalist and one Lutheran. Her school houses are - ; enrolled school children, - ; population, 2,200.

This flourishing village is situated in the southwestern part of the township, on the line of the P., C. & St. L. R. R. Outside of Logansport, this is one of the largest and most enterprising towns in the county. It was laid out in 1852, by Gilbert W. Wall. Hatahway & Noel laid out an addition soon after. Three additions have since been made at different times by Messrs. Farris, Dollarhide and Davis.

The following is a list of its business men at present : C. T. Hur¬ ley, general merchant; Geo. W. Bishop, general merchant; J. Q. Kesling, druggist ; John Shaffer, restaurant;W. P. Bell, Postmaster; David Engler, hotel; Surface &r Morgan, grocery; D. P. Cromer, grist-mill; Bennett & Shaffer, tile factory; Adam A. Smith, tile factory; Hon. Isaac Baumgamer, planing-mill; Penrose & Reed, blacksmiths; Lee Green, blacksmith; Joseph Beall, wagon maker; D. Studer, carriage maker; Hurd & Curtis, saw-mill; G. W. Camp¬ bell, saw-mill; Penrose & Bro., pump factory; William Bishop, under¬ taker; D. W. Sumption, railroad agent; J. W. Benifee, shoemaker; law; Ministers, P. S. Snider, William Peck and Adam Surface; Churches are three, viz.: Methodist, Universalist and Lutheran; School houses two - in one of which is taught a graded school. The town is incorporated, and the following are its officers: 0. P. Darl¬ ing, President; James Davis, Clerk; C. T. Hurley, -Layton,

Board Of Education

The teachers' Scientific and Classical Departments are under the control and personal attention of Supt. H. G. Wilson and Professors J. H. Hays and J. H. Neff.

This school was opened for a course of ten weeks, on the 9th day of April, 1878, with a large number of pupils. With such a fair be¬ ginning, its future success appears flattering, and, under its present competent management, it cannot fail to become one of the leading educational institutions in Cass County.

Previous to the Spring of 1830, the Indian was the sole inhab¬ itant of this township, the deep solitude of which was broken only by the plaintive cry of the deer or some other wild animal, suffering from mortal wounds, inflicted by the deadly arrow of the savage. But a change came. The white man makes his appearance upon the scene. Mr. Shore, acting as scout and Indian trader, but taking no step toward improvements, led the advance at the date above given, 1830.

To apply the axe, however, to begin felling the forest, and to be guiding stars in the march of civilization in Bethlehem Township was reserved for other and nobler spirits.

Naming them, as near as can be learned, in the order of their coming, we have first Mr. John R. Hinton, from Putnam County, of this State, who fixed his abode upon the southeast quarter of Sec. 23, during the Summer of 1830. He was not able to make an entry of his land until October, 1833, the surveys not being run until about that time. The next year, 1831, followed that distinguished citizen, Gen. Richard Crooks, who settled, in part, the farms now owned by Book waiter and Leffel. Gen. C. had emigrated from Washington County, Pa. He was an energetic, brave man, and a man of more than ordinary intellect. Serving under William Henry Harrison, during the war of 1812, he won the rank of Brigadier General. His abilities and experience, coupled with the privations and hardships while a soldier, combined to create him a fit leader, as he virtually was, in the settlement, organization and development of such a town¬ ship. For another entire year, perhaps, Gen. Crooks and family and and Mr. Hinton and family constituted the aggregate white popula¬ tion of their congressional township. Before the close of 1832, however, they were joined by William Foy and Joel Martin; the former choosing the present site of Mr. Samuel Metzker, and the lat¬ ter that of Mr. Arthur Leffel.

Early in 1833, John Dalzell, son-in-law of Gen. Crooks, and also, from Washington Co., Pa., settled on the farm now owned and occupied by his son, John A. Dalzell.

A settlement now actually begun, before the close of 1833, three other fearless men and their families came, willing and anxious to help transform the forest to farms of fertility, viz.: John Eurit, from Lewis County, Va., who laid claim to the farm now belonging to the heirs of the late Mr. Abshire ; a Mr. Noah Martin, who located on the farm owned, at this time, by Mr. Samuel Williamson, and a gen¬ tleman by the name of Bailey, who established himself on the farm now the property of Mr. S. Conkling.

In 1834 came Josiah Skelton on the Bookwalter farm; Jerry Skelton, on the Keider farm ; Eli and Peter Demos, on the farms owned by Joseph Penrose and J. M. Buchanan; Josiah Powell, on the farm now owned by Lemuel Powell and John Conn, soon there¬ after starting a chair and spinuing factory.

Among those appearing soon after 1836, and deserving to be enumerated among the early settlers, we present the following, viz.: David Williamson, Reuben Perry, Maj. David II. Conrad, John Furgeson, John Yund, James Kenley, Dr. A. B. and James M. Buchanan - the latter being a son of James Buchanan, who, in 1839, settled on the farm, now the home and estate of James M. Doubt¬ less many other worthy names are omitted, having been overlooked by our informant.

The first religious meeting in this township was probably held at the cabin of Joel Martin, in 1832, under Methodist auspices, by Rev. Samuel Cooper. The Presbyterians were the next denomination to put in an appearance ; holding their meetings in a log school house, situated upon the Hinton farm. Their early preachers were John Houston, Robert Erwin, Henry Bacon and James Buchanan, Sr. The Methodist society erected the first church in the township. This occurred, probably, about 1844, and was located on the Joel Martin farm, occupying the lot where stood the first school house. Its name was " Bethlehem Chapel." Soon following this, the Presby-

The first regular school house was built, of logs, about the Fall of 1835, on the E. } of the S. W. 1 of Sec. 24. This was probably the first school house, also, built in Cass County, to the north of Logausport. Nathaniel D. Nichols, an emigrant of very small stature, from the State of Ohio, and now a resident of Miami County, this State, had the honor of teaching the first school in this structure. He was considered in that day a successful teacher, using the rod of reproof as the source of discipline. Scholars from quite a distance attended, even from the town of Rochester. Five only of his pupils are known to survive at this time, viz.: Stephen Eurit, Alfred and James Guy, Robert Dalzell and Mrs. M. A. Irwin. In 1840, this first school house was superseded by a better one, built on the Hinton farm, and still another soon followed, upon the McMillan farm.

This township was organized March 7, 1836. The name " Beth¬ lehem " was suggested for the township, by Mr. Dalzell, in memory of a village or township of that name, in Pennsylvania, his native State. The organization effected, the first election of the township was held at a cabin on the Williamson farm. Mr. John R. Hinton was chosen first Justice of the Peace. The other township officials, by name, have been forgotten. The first person to engage in milling of any kind was John R. Hinton, who, in 1838, built a mill for saw¬ ing lumber. The first marriage celebrated in Bethlehem was that of Jacob R. Hall, to Miss Rachael Martin, in 1834 or '35. The first burial in what is now known as the Presbyterian graveyard was Martha J. Buchanan. In the way of improvements, Bethlehem holds a good rank among the northern townships of the county. Much of her land is in a good state of cultivation, showing the indus¬ trious habits of her citizens. Churches, with name and location, will be found correctly given by the township map, on another page of this Atlas. Her school houses are ten; enrolled school chil¬ dren, -.

New Hamilton

the only village of the township, was laid out in 1853 or '54, by George Allen. Its business men at present are as follows : Jephtha Powell, general merchant; Joseph McCabe, shoe shop; Virgil Powell, blacksmith. Post Office - J. Powell, Postmaster. Physicians are A. M. Buchanan and M. 8. Newton.

Those marked individualisms of character, which strikingly dis¬ tinguished the career of personages whose nobility is acknowledged by the world of mind, are the features that, now and heretofore, have commanded and fixed the attention of mankind; hence it is, that history only records the pencilings of genius, standing out in bold relief, on the tablets of memory. Eccentricities of talent and character, endowed with a sufficiency of motive power to vitalize those talents and characteristics, never fail to leave behind distinct traces - land-marks - such as will not fail to secure recognition, and be acknowledged by all. A striking illustration in proof of this is afforded in the life of him whose name stands at the head of this article. John Tipton was born in Sevier County, East Teuneseee, on the 14th day of August, 1786. His father, Joshua Tipton, was a native of Maryland, and a man possessing great positiveness of character, with keen perceptions and uncommon executive power. These peculirities induced his early removal from his native State, and settlement in a more western home, where he was a leader in the defense of their frontier against the hostile Indians. In open war¬ fare, the Indians feared his superiority in courage and tact. The consequence was, that a band of Chcrokees waylaid and murdered him, on the 18th day of April, 1793.

Left thus early in life, in the midst of a frontier settlement, sur¬ rounded by the perils incident thereto, the son, inheriting the saga¬ city and self-reliance of his father, soon began to develop that positive energy of character which distinguished his after life.

In the Fall of 1807, with his mother, two sisters and a halfbrother, he removed to Indiana Territory, then just beginning to acquire notoriety. His place of settlement was near Brinley's Ferry, on the Ohio River. One of his first acts was to purchase a home¬ stead for his mother, consisting of fifty acres, which he paid out of his scanty earnings, acquired by chopping and splitting rails, at fifty cents a hundred, in addition to the maintenance of the family, of whom he was now the responsible head. These early experiences laid the foundation of his future success in life. As early as June, 1809, upon the formation of a military company in the vicinity of his home - called the " Yellow Jackets," from the color of their uniforms - he enlisted aad became an active member. This company was designed for active service, in case the exigency of the times de¬ manded, and was placed under the command of Captain Spear Spen¬ cer. The occasion soon presented itself, and the company was ordered to the frontier, for the protection of the settlements. On the 10th of September, 1811, the company entered upon the campaign, which terminated in the battle of Tippecanoe. While on the march, he was chosen Ensign, and in that position he entered the battle field. Early in the engagement, all his superior officers were killed, and he was promoted to the Captaincy of the company, by General Harrison, when the conflict raged fiercest. Subsequently, he was promoted by regular gradation, under the military regulations of the State, to the rank of Brigadier Geueral.

At the fiist election under the Shite Constitution, he was the choice of the people of Harrison County, for Sheriff, and continued in that position, until near the close of his second term. Meantime, he was elected to represent Harrison County in the State Legislature, at the session of 1819-20.

result of this committee's action made Indianapolis the capital city of Indiana. The selection was made on the 7th day of June, 1820, and confirmed by legislative enactment, approved January 6, 1821.

In August, 1821, he was re-elected to represent his county, having acquired extensive popularity as a discreet and active legis¬ lator. At the session following, he was chosen one of the Commis¬ sioners, on the part of Indiana, to act with like Commissioners on the part of Illinois, in locating the boundary line between the two States. The work was expeditiously and satisfactorily accomplished the succeeding Summer, and ratified by the Legislatures of the two States, at the session of 1822-3.

He was appointed, in March, 1823, by President Monroe, Gen¬ eral Agent for the Pottawatomie and Miami Indians, on the Upper Wabash and Tippecanoe Rivers, and immediately removed to Fort Wayne, the seat of the agency. His success in this field was no less marked than in the execution of other trusts before reposed in him. At his instance, the agency was removed from Ft. Wayne to Logansport, in the Spring of 1828, where he continued to discharge the functions of his trust, with fidelity and success.

Anterior to his removal of the agency, under appointment of President J. Q. Adams, in the Fall of 1826, he was chiefly instru¬ mental in securing the important provisions of several treaties with those tribes over which he had jurisdiction, whereby valuable land interests were opened to the public.

At the session of the Legislature in December, 1831, he was elected U. S. Senator from Indiana, to fill the vacancy occasioned by the death of Hon. James Noble. Again, at the session of 1832-3, be was elected for a full term of six years. While there, he was dis¬ tinguished for his sound judgment and independent action upon all questions involving the interest of his State, or the General Govern¬ ment. His views in reference to the recharter of a United States Bank were strictly opposed to those of Gen. Jackson ; favoring, in a most exhaustive speech on that question, the continuance of that in¬ stitution as the best means of securing a standard currency of uniform value everywhere. He recognized no party in determining the line of duty, always acting from motives of public right; his unbiased judgment controlling the effort.

As a civilian and citizen, he was alike successful in directing and executing, to the extent of his power, whatever purpose his conscience approved or his judgment dictated. v

Having determined to make Logansport his home, and moved his family here, he directed his energies toward securing all advantages incident to cultivated society, and the developeraent of natural re¬ sources. One of his first steps was to effect the organization of the Eel River Seminary Society; the erection of a suitable building for school purposes; the employment and support of teachers. This was accomplished in the Fall and Winter of 1828-9. For this purpose, also, he contributed largely of his means and influence. In after years, his numerous business cares did not detract from his efforts to secure the permanent prosperity of the schools.

Under his direction, the settlement was supplied with grist and saw-mills, simultaneously with the other enterprises inaugurated by him. In short, he was the instigator of and the motive power that gave form and imparted energy to every enterprise calculated to improve society, and induce progress toward the unfoldment and utilization of all the natural advantages with which Cass County has been so bountifully supplied.

He was the proprietor, also, of four separate additions to the town of Logansport, and was interested with Sir. Carter, in the plan and location of the original plat thereof. During the Summer or Fall of

1838, he was delegated, with the discretionary powers necessary to the successful removal of the disaffected Indians, who, having dis¬ posed of their lands, were yet unwilling to remove peacefully to their home beyond the Mississippi. The decisive measures adopted by him permitted no delay. Difficulties, seemingly unsurmountable, were promptly overcome by his superior tact and courage, and the work accomplished with satisfactory dispatch. Mr. Tipton was twice who died less than two years after their marriage. The second time was in April, 1825, to Matilda, daughter of Capt. Spear Spencer, who was killed at the battle of Tippecanoe. The second Mrs. Tipton died in the Spring of 1839, about the close of her husband's Senator¬ ial career.

The prestige of his name as a civilian and statesman, added to his fame aS a military leader, did not completely fill his measure of honor; he was a member of the Masonic fraternity, and occupied a distin¬ guished position in the order. He received the first degrees in Pisgah Lodge, No. 5, at Corydon, Indiana, in the year 1817. He was soon after elected Master, and, as such, represented that lodge at the first session of the Grand Lodge of Indiana, at which he was elected Senior Grand Warden, holding that position until 1820, when he became Grand Master. Having served one term, he was re-elected Grand Master in 1828. In 1822, he received the Chapter degrees at Louis¬ ville, Kentucky, at the hands of Companion Snow, of Ohio.

He subsequently filled many important positions in the Grand Lodge, and was chiefly instrumental in the institution of Tipton Lodge, No. 33, in 1828, and Logan Chapter, No. 2, in 1837, in both of which he achieved the highest honors.

On the morning of April 5, 1839, after a few hours of uncon¬ scious suffering, he died, in the meridian of life, and received the last sad honors of his Masonic brethren, on Sunday, April 7, 1839.

Major Daniel Bell By T. B. Helm

Major Bell, as he was familiarly known, was born in Washington County, Pa., on the 7th day of March, 1788. His father was a farmer in moderate circumstances, and, with a view to bettering his own and the condition of his family, moved thence to Bourbon County, Ky., in the Fall after Daniel's birth.

At the date of his settlement, Kentucky was but sparsely settled, adventurous pioneers only being drawn thither by the prosperous advantages offered. The father, in this instance, was not an excep¬ tion, and was willing to risk the contingencies of Indian warfare, depending upon his own strong arm and trusty rifle to maintain the equality of right.

With the surroundings incident to pioneer life in Kentucky, the early experiences of Major Bell eminently fitted him to become a participant in the progress of settlements in Indiana Territory. With these qualifications, he moved with his father, and settled in Corydon, Ind., in the Spring of 1811.

About this time, there was great excitement growing out of the numerous Indian depredations committed along the line of frontier settlements by the hordes under control of the Shawnee Prophet, whose village was on the north side of the Tippecanoe, a short dis¬ tance above its mouth. Mutual defense was the order of the hour among the hardy pioneersmen of this locality. Captain Spencer had raised a company of mounted men to go with the expedition against those Indians. Young Bell at once enlisted, and soon after the expedition started, the Prophet's town being the objective point. At the battle of Tippecanoe, on the 7th of November following, their company - the " Yellow Jackets " - acquitted itself with distin¬ guished honor, more than half the number being killed or wounded. Among the killed was the gallant Captain. Major Bell was unhurt.

After that time, he participated in numerous minor engagements with the Indians, in which he bore himself with the courage charac¬ teristic of the true backwoods soldier. After the return of the expedition from Tippecanoe, in the month of December of the same year, he was united in marriage with Miss Nancy Spencer, daughter of the late Captain.

Having resided in the vicinity of Corydon until some time in the year 1824, he removed thence to Putnam. County, Ind., remaining there until the early Spring of 1827, when, with bis family, he again moved, settling on the north side of the Wabash, within the present boundary of Logansport, landing here on the 27th of March, 1827. Major Bell's cabin was the first ever erected within the limits of our city.

In 1830, having purchased an interest in the Louison Reserve, north of Eel River, he moved to that point, and made an improve¬ ment on his land. Five years later, he made a further settlement at Georgetown in this county, being the proprietor of that place. Two years after the death of General Tipton - his brother-in-law - Major Bell returned to Logansport, and took control of the General's dom¬ icil, at the request of his children. He remained in charge until 1845, when the Miami Reserve - recently purchased from the Indi¬ ans - began to be settled. The pre-emption law was then in force, and, following the bent of his inclinations to become a pioneer again, he took a claim, and settled on the border of a prairie in Jackson Township, since known as "Bell's Prairie," in the immediate vicinity of Galveston. On this tract he remained the balance of his life.

For twenty years prior to his death, Major Bell had directed his efforts toward the organization of a society composed of the remain¬ ing " Old Settlers," and their immediate descendants. In the course of time, such an association became a necessity, and, accordingly, on the 26th of March, 1870, such a society was formed, and the Major made President for life.

Naturally possessing a strong physical organization, with a fair intellectual development, at the age of more than four score years, his mind was still active, and the fire of his eye remained uudimmed.

From that time, however, his strength began to give way; having endured the frosts and snows of eighty-three winters, his mind, also, became impaired, and he was again a child. Thus he passed to his final rest, on the evening of November 7th, 1874, on the sixty-sixth anniversary of the battle of Tippecanoe.

Cyrus Taber By T. B. Helm

Mr. Taber was born at Tiverton, Newport County, Rhode Island, on the 19th day of January, 1800. When only 3 years old, his father left Tiverton, and settled temporarily in Western New York, subsequently removing thence to the State of Pennsylvania. Having remained under the paternal roof until he had nearly attained his 24tli year, he felt that he should thenceforth enter upon life's duties on his own account, and accordingly came westward, set¬ tling at Fort Wayne, Allen County, Indiana, then but recently or¬ ganized.

Before leaving home, however, he had established a course of policy that seems to have been the rule by which he accomplished the great aims of his business life: "Do one thing at a time , and do that one thing well," An incident in his early life made this maxim his talisman. When only 17 or 18 years old, he was temporarily employed by an old Pennsylvania Quaker, named William Salter, to make rails and build fence. One day, while thus engaged, the old gentleman was present, intently watching the move¬ ments of Cyrus, in accomplishing his work. Seeing the young man proceed by first splitting a few rails, then laying about a dozen panels of fence-worm, after which he would split another small number of rails and lay them along as before, in like manner proceeding with his work. Finally, the old Quaker, having satisfied his curiosity, spoke thus earnestly to the young laborer: "Friend Cyrus, thee must learn to do one thing at a time, or be a poor man all thy life." Cyrus saw the point, and profited by the suggestion. Afterward, he made rail-splitting the business of one occasion, and fence-building another ; never again trying to do both at once. It proved a lesson of great value to him in after life.

When he came to Fort Wayne he had with him about $400 in money, and before he had any opportunity to secure employment, he was taken sick with the ague, with which he suffered for a whole year. Thus all his money was spent, and he was about thirty dollars in debt. As soon as he was able, he struck out, and went to work, building fences and log cabins for the Indians. Reuben Covert was his companion. The latter drove the oxen and hauled the rails, while Mr. Taber did the cutting and splitting. At the end of one year, he had saved one hundred dollars, and with it, purchased the first eighty acres of land ever owned by him. He was richer then, he said, than ever afterward. He was independent, and willing to work. Afterward he cleared his land, raised corn, and, with the pro¬ ceeds, purchased an adjoining lot.

In this manner, the first three years of his residence in Allen Co. were devoted to the development of his farming interests, by which experience, also, he demonstrated the fact that he had qualifications for a more profitable investment of Ills talents. This was not so much his own discovery as that of his friends. Allen Hamilton, who, seeing that Mr. Taber was well adapted to the branch of trade in which he was himself engaged, invited him to take a share in his business. Thenceforward, he devoted his time and energies to the enlargement of this business interest. In this way, the well-known firm of Hamilton & Taber was permanently established, in the year 18 27.

In the following year this firm commenced business in Logansport - then but recently laid out - Mr. Taber taking the immediate charge of this branch. This firm continued thus until 1835, when Philip Pollard was taken into partnership, the firm then taking the name of A. Hamilton & Co. In 1838, this partnership was dis¬ solved, when the firm resumed its original name.

As a firm, Hamilton & Taber ceased business, in 1840, at Logans¬ port. Mr. Taber, however, continued a separate business in Logans¬ port until 1843, when, in June of that year, Wm. Chase took an interest, and the firm was known by the name of Taber & Chase. This firm continued in business until 1848, when Mr. Taber retired from mercantile life forever.

In May, 1829, Mr. Taber was married to Miss Deborah Ann Coles, daughter of Col. Stephen Coles, of Fort Wayne, by whom he had several children; of these, but three are now living - Stephen C., Paul, and Phebe Ann, now the wife of Andrew H. Hamilton, Esq., of Fort Wayne.

After the organization of Cass County, in the Spring of 1829, Mr. Taber, when the County Board met in its first session, was appointed County Treasurer. His term of office expired in January, 1830, when Jordan Vigus was appointed his successor.

Mr. Taber was not an aspirant for office, yet, at the earnest solici¬ tation of his friends, he was induced to become a candidate for the State Legislature in 1845, was elected, and made an efficient member. The next year, he was elected to the State Senate, and served as such during.the years 1846, '7 and '8, when he was succeeded by George B. Walker.

Politically, Mr. Taber was ranked with the old Whig party, and advocated the claims of Henry Clay for the presidency, and maintained, generally, the principles and measures of that party until 1835, after¬ ward affiliating with the Democratic party.

When the railroad interest began first to be developed, Mr. Taber was one of its most zealous advocates, and to him, perhaps, more than to any other man, are the people of Cass County indebted for the first railroads that passed over her territory. In short, he was in favor of whatever measure was best calculated to develop the true interests of the community. He was a friend to the poor man, and did much to assist those who showed a disposition to help themselves. As such he will be long remembered. Finally, after a lingering illness, on the 13th day of April, 1855, he passed cheerfully and peacefully to the life beyond.

George W. Ewing

Geo. W. Ewing, a son of Alexander and Charlotte (Griffith) Ewing, was born in Monroe, Michigan Territory, about the year 1803, moving thence with his parents to Washington, a frontier town of Western Ohio, since known as Piqua. Here, and at Troy, an adjacent village, the family resided until the Spring of 1822, when they moved to the ancient Miami town of Ke-ki-onga (Fort Wayne, Ind.), at that time the seat of the Indian Agency for the North¬ western tribes.

The inducements thus presented for entering upon a lucrative trade, caused George to take the preliminary steps necessary to qualify himself for that business. This he did, and as early as 1826, we find him engaged in active business at Wa-pe-kon-net-ta, a little farther east, in the State of Ohio, his trade being chiefly with the Shawnees.

From his readiness in acquiring a knowledge of the language of this tribe, he was named by them, "She-wah-no" (speaking Shawnee and Miami). To Wm. G. Ewing, also, they gave the name of "Shewah-no-za" (Shewahno's brother).

In 1827, the firm of W. G. & G. W. Ewing commenced business in Fort Wayne, gradually extending it South and West, until it assumed the most gigantic proportions. The branch established at Logansport commenced in 1828, and continued until 1839, their headquarters being at the northeast corner of Market and Bridge streets.

After a residence of seven years in that place, he again moved, this time settling in the City of St. Louis, Mo. - his general business headquarters. Here, in January following, Mrs. Ewing diet!. He, however, remained there until the death of his brother, William G., on the lltli of July, 1854, when, his business interest requiring his presence at Fort Wayne, he made the latter place his home.

During his residence in Cass County, he was elected to represent this district in the State Senate, serving in that position, to the entire satisfaction of his constituents, from 1836 to 1839, when he removed, as previously stated, to Miami County.

Mr. Ewing was a fine business man, having, by his skillful man¬ agement, accumulated an immense fortune, estimated, in round num¬ bers, at 81,225,000.

Upon his return to Fort Wayne, his multifarious business cares wore heavily upon his nervous system, which eventually gave way, and he died of bilious pneumonia, on the 29th of May, 1866.

William G. Ewing By T. B. Helm

William G. wa^born in Monroe, (then) Michigan Territory, about the year 1805. In 1807, the family moved to Piqua, then known as Washington, a frontier town in Western Ohio. At this place, and at Troy - a small village near by - the family remained until the year 1822, and then moved to Fort Wayne, Indiana - the old Miami town of Ke-ki-onga - on the borders of the unpurchased territory south and west. At Fort Wayne, in the course of time, he was gradually inducted into the Indian trade, that point being then the seat of the Indian Agency. It was not, however, until the year 1827, that he and his brother, George W., commenced an independent business on their own account.

When the Indians had been moved Westward, trading houses were established by this enterprising firm in Iowa, Missouri, Wis¬ consin and other Western States and Territories, thus realizing an immense fortune. It is said their business extended from Europe to the Rocky Mountains.

George B. Walker By T. B. Helm

George B. Walker was born in Baltimore County, Maryland, about one and one-half miles north of the city, on the 1st day of May, 1803. He was the son of Christopher and Patience (Foster) Wal¬ ker. With his parents, he emigrated to and settled in Ohio, landing at Cincinnati in October, 1809.

George B., after residing in Cincinnati until the year 1818 or '19, left there and went to Piqua, thence to Troy, Ohio, where, with Mr. John McCorkle (brother of the late Mary Hars), he commenced mercantile life. With Mr. McCorkle, he continued in business at that point until 1824, when they transferred their stock in trade to Fort Wayne, moving thither, made that place their home. Subse¬ quently, he and Anthony L. Davis, purchased the entire interest of Mr. McCorkle in *the store, and commenced business under the firm name of Walker & Davis. At a still later period, a branch store was sent to Attica, Indiana, and another to Logansport, the firm taking the name of Walker, Carter & Co. - Davis at Fort Wayne, Walker at Attica and Chauncy Carter at Logrnsport. This firm suspended business in 1832, when Mr. Walker became a member of the firm of Ewing, Walker & Co. Mr. Walker was first married to Miss Lavina Ewing, daughter of Alexander Ewing, of Fort Wayne, and sister of W. G. and G. W. Ewing, on the 14th of December, 1826, and they commenced keeping house, January 1, 1827. By this lady he had one child - Charlotte, the wife of Stephen C. Taber, Esq. Mrs. Wal¬ ker died in 1835.

Mr. Walker was again married on the 25th of October, 1837, to Miss Rachel Clymer, daughter of Joseph Clymer, Sr., of this county. This lady died, also, in the Fall of 1876, leaving Mr. Walker again a widower. During his residence in this county, Mr. Walker has been one of our most active business men, and has filled many positions within the gift of the people ; always distinguishing himself for un¬ blemished integrity and faithfulness.

He was a member of the Board of Commissioners of the county in 1846-7-8, and served one term as member of the State Senate, in the years 1849, '50 and 1851.

Allen Hamilton By T. B. Helm

Allen Hamilton was a native of Ireland, born in the county of Tyrone in the year 1798. When about 18 years of age, he was induced, by the glowing description of this country and its insti¬ tutions, to make it his future home. Accordingly, in July, 1817, having acquired, through his own exertions and the aid of his friends, sufficient means to bring him across the deep, and with a small sum also to maintain him for a short time after his arrival, he set sail for Quebec, whither he arrived in due course of time. His first adversity was the ship fever, which confined him for six weeks. From Quebec he went to Philadelphia, where he obtained a situation as clerk in an iron store, with a salary of $100 a year and board. With an increase of salary he remained in the same situation until 1820, when he came to Lawrenceburg, Ind., and found a good situa¬ tion in the Clerk's office of that place, where, also, he began the study of law.

In 1828, he was induced by Capt. Samuel C. Yance to make Fort Wayne his future home. Here he obtained a situation in the Land Office, and pursued at the same time his legal studies. Before prose¬ cuting these studies very far, he abandoned the project and com¬ menced mercantile life, in which he succeeded beyond his expectations.

In the meantime Mr. Hamilton was united in marriage with Miss Emerine J. Holman, daughter of Hon. Jesse L. Holman, one of his early friends.

In 1824, he was appointed Sheriff for the purpose of organizing Allen County, and was re-elected for a full term. In 1830, he was elected Clerk of Allen County, and held the position seven years.

In 1850, he was a member of the convention which formed our present constitution. In 1857, he visited Europe. Upon his return, he was elected a member of the State Legislature, and exerted a good influence in that body.

For some years, also, he was President of the Branch Bank of Indiana, situated at Fort Wayne, and afterward established the well-known banking house of Allen Hamilton & Co.

Mr. Hamilton was one of those noble characters whose very presence exerts a genial influence throughout a community wherever he resided - one of Nature's noblemen, whose honest impulses were manifested in every act of his life. He was a friend to the poor, and kindly disposed to all.

Dr. Graham N. Fitch By T. B. Helm

The subject of this sketch was born in LeRoy, Genesee County, New York, on the 5th day of December, 1810, and is said to have been the first white child bom in that village. His father's name was Frederick, that of his mother, Mary (Capen) Fitch. Inheriting from his ancestors a well developed physical sysfem, and a vigorous intellect, he was allowed all the educational privileges the locality and vicinity afforded, which, while they were not of the highest order, nevertheless were sufficient to lay the foundation of a career of usefulness.

At an early date, having chosen the medical profession as the channel in which his life voyage was to be made, he commenced study with his father and Dr. Asa Freeman ; subsequently complet¬ ing his course with Dr. Townsend, of Geneva, New York. Soon after his entrance upon the practice of his profession, he came west¬ ward and selected Logansport as his future home. With such intention, he settled here on the 4th day of July, 1834, and has been a constant resident ever since.

His professional career has been signally successful; the reputa¬ tion being awarded him as one of the most skillful surgeons and thorough practitioners in the West. That he was entitled to such

In 1844, he accepted a Professorship in Rush Medical College, at Chicago, Ill., occupying the chair of " Theory and Practice," during the years 1844, '45, '46 and '47. At the end of the session in this year, he resigned his position. While thus engaged, he maintained his popularity, and enlarged his sphere of usefulness.

Though not naturally a politician, Dr. Fitch, from force of cir¬ cumstances, was drawn, perhaps not unwillingly, into the arena of politics, where his commanding talent and dnergy marked him as the people's choice. In 1836, and again in 1839, he was chosen to repre¬ sent Cass County in the State Legislature.

As a legislator in the State councils, he proved himself equal to the responsibility entrusted to him. Subsequently, at the election in August, 1847, he was chosen to represent this district in the Lower House of Congress, holding that position until 1852. During his membership there, he was active and efficient in the discharge of his duties, earning the reputation of a discreet legislator. His legislative capacity was further tested by an experience in the Senate of the United States, commencing in 1858, and ending with the session of 1860-61.

The honorable distinction acquired in subordinate legislative posi¬ tions was not dimmed by his senatorial experience. This ended his active political life, but he leaves a record of which posterity need not be ashamed. Although a Democrat in his political affiliation, he esteemed principles above mere partizanship, and was not slow to manifest disapprobation when his party seemed disposed to pursue a course of policy in antagonism with his better judgment. In the triangular contest for the Presidency between Mr. Lincoln and Mr. Douglas and Mr. Breckenridge, he gave his undivided support to the last named gentleman, influenced thereto by a belief that Ills election would prevent the threatened civil war. Again, when his party ral¬ lied to the support of Mr. Greeley, he manifested his dissent by supporting Mr. O'Connor for the Presidency. He opposed, alike, the ultra anti-slavery men of the North and the pro-slavery men of the South ; averring that the former gave the pretext for dissatisfaction in the South, while the latter exaggerated the pretext to unreasonably increase the dissatisfaction. He thought both, though antipodes in profession, were seeking the same end - civil war and dissolution of the Union. He appears to have foreseen the war several years before its occurrence, and warned the Southern members of Congress of its consequences to their section, portraying those consequences in one of his sjieeches in Congress, much as they subsequently occurred.

When the war came, he raised a regiment (the Forty-sixth In¬ diana Volunteers) and at their head entered the Federal service. He was soon placed in command of a brigade, with which he participated in the siege and capture of Fort Thompson, at New Madrid. His com¬ mand likewise composed part of General Palmer's division, which, subsequent to the capture of Fort Thompson, blockaded the Missis¬ sippi River, at Ruddle's Point, to prevent re-enforcements and sup¬ plies reaching " Island No. 10 " from below. Afterward, he was detached with his brigade from General Pope's command to co¬ operate with Commodores Foote and Davis in the siege of Fort Pillow, and conducted the siege so vigorously as to materially aid in the forced abandonment of the fort by the Confederate troops. The next day after its capture, he descended the river and captured Mem¬ phis, holding it some days until the arrival of General Slack of the Forty seventh Indiana. He then, with his own regiment, embarked for the White River, Ark., where he captured St. Charles and ren¬ dered other valuable service. Upon the completion of the campaign, he returned home to enjoy the remainder of his days in peace.

Since the close of the war he has continued to practice his pro¬ fession, not interfering in political affairs, except to preserve the integrity of his inherent ideas of right, by opposing, with the vigor of his palmier days, whatever he conceives to be wrong, in civil and political affairs alike.

Joseph Barron By T. B. Helm

Joseph Barron was of French extraction, his ancestors, some two centuries ago, having come over from France and settled near Quebec, Canada, whither the tide of emigration from that quarter was then drifting. About the year 1749, the family moved westward and set¬ tled at Malden, in the vicinity of Detroit - the center of an extensive Indian trade, carried on by the French population. Here, in the month of January, 1773, the subject of this sketch was born. From his surroundings in early life, and his natural aptness in the comprehension of language, in addition to a most retentive memory, it is not remarkable that he early became proficient in his knowledge of the dialect peculiar to the numerous Indian tribes of the locality.

Trading along the route from Detroit to " Old Post Vincennes," he gradually became familiar with the language of the Wabash Indians. Finally, he settled at Vincennes, about the year 1790. Early attracting the attention of the civil and military authorities at the " Post," his services as an interpreter were in frequent demand.

In the year 1798, he was married to Mrs. Barbara Jerceaux, sister of tbe elder Michael Brouillette, by whom he had one child. Mrs. Barron lived but little more than a year after her marriage, her child dying soon after.

He remained a widower about one year and a half, and was then married to Miss Josephine Gamelin, daughter of Pierre Gamelin, Sr., one of the most prominent citizens of Vincennes. By this marriage he was the father of seven children; five sons and two daughters. Of these, only the two youngest survive - Mary Ann, wife of the late Harvey Heth, an old citizen of this county, now the wife of Anthony F. Smith, Esq., formerly Judge of the City Court of Logansport, and Napoleon B., formerly one of the leading magistrates of this county, and now President of the "Old Settlers' Society," of this county.

Upon the division of the territory northwest of the Ohio, includ¬ ing the State of Indiana, and the appoiqtment of General Harrison as Territorial Governor, Mr. Barron was chosen one of the Governor's official interpreters. As an evidence of the estimation in which he was held by the government authorities, we find his name connected with nearly every important treaty and council with the Indians in the Northwest, from 1803, until 1843, as special interpreter. General Harrison, General Hopkins and other officers, in their reports to the Department at Washington, Bpeak of his qualities as an interpreter, and of the efficient services rendered by him, as une¬ qualed in the accuracy of his knowledge of the language and charac¬ teristics of every Indian tribe on the Wabash.

In the month of May, 1810, he was entrusted by Gen. Harrison with the execution of a most hazardous enterprise, that of conveying to the hostile Indians, assembled at the Prophet's Town, on the Upper Wabash, a talk, concerning the policy pursued by them. Having delivered his message, he was brought before the Prophet, who taunted him with being his prisoner, and that he should be imme¬ diately put to death, at the same time pointing to an open grave, newly made, saying "there is your grave."

This threat would, no doubt, have been executed, but for the interposition of Tecumseh, who demanded his release, saying: "the flag of truce, borne by him, has always been respected, and shall be now!"

Again, on the 13th of August, of the same year, he officiated as interpreter, at the celebrated council at Vincennes, between General Harrison and Tecumseh, when the latter contradicted the Governor's statements, and, with his warriors present, in violation of the terms of the conference, sprang up, with tomahawks raised, meditating an attack. The cool promptness of the Governor and his guards, how¬ ever, soon put an end to the movements of the savages.

On a subsequent occasion, when acting under the Governor's in¬ structions, in company with General Walter Wilson, through the treachery of Tecumseh's brother, the Prophet, he and his companion were condemned to die, but were relieved from their perilous situation, by the timely interposition of Tecumseh himself, by whom, also, they were guided out of danger.

In the battle of Tippecanoe, which occurred on the 7th day of November, 1811, he bore a conspicuous part, from the intimate knowledge of the character and movements of the savages. Many other striking incidents of his career might be related, but space will not now permit.

Mr. Barron was above the medium height, of affable manners, and easy address, honored and respected by all, for the strict integrity of his life, and his conduct of public affairs. Although surrounded by numerous opportunities for pecuniary gain, he yielded not to tempta¬ tion, preferring to eat the bread of his honest toil.

He died on the 12th day of December, 1843, at peace with all the world, having finished the work given him to do. He was buried with military honors.

By T. B. Helm

Old Settlers' Society " of this county; is also grandson of Joseph Barron, who was one of the official interpreters, under appointment of Gen. Harrison, during his early administration of affairs in Indiana Territory. Mr. Barron was bom in the ancient city of Vincennes, Knox County, Ind., on the 25th day of March, 1844. In that city he spent the greater portion of his early life, receiving in the common schools an education which, although not of the high scholastic order, was of a character that has since enabled him to participate successfully in the details of an active business life.

Upon the breaking out of the rebellion, when but little more than 17 years of age, with the spirit that actuated the movements of young men and old throughout the entire North, he volunteered in the service of his country to do battle for the maintenance of her rights. On the 19th of April, 1861, less than four days after the Issue of President Lincoln's proclamation, he enlisted in Company B, Four¬ teenth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and continued in service with the regiment until the battle of Antietam, Va., when he was transferred to Battery C, U. S. Artillery. While following the for¬ tunes of this branch of the army, at the battle of Chancellorsville, on the 3d day of May, 1863, he lost his left leg, and, being thus incapacitated for further duty, was honorably discharged from the ser¬ vice on the 10th day of September following. Returning at once to Vincennes, he was employed as a Government Messenger on the rail¬ roads of Tennessee and Alabama. He remained on duty in this de¬ partment during the succeeding years of 1864 and 1865 until -the close of the war.

Having thus completed his military career, he removed to Logansport on the 22d of October, 1865, thence to Royal Center, in this county. On the 6th day of February, 1866, he and his father embarked in business. On the 25th day of March, 1868, he was united in marriage with Miss Eliza A., daughter of John Beckley, one of the oldest settlers in that part of the county.

Having accepted a position as Deputy Auditor with John F. Dodds, Esq., he returned to Logansport Sept. 20, 1872. He con¬ tinued with Mr. Dodds until the expiration of his official term, achieving great success.

In May, 1875, he was the independent candidate for City Clerk, and was elected, over all opposition, by a good majority. He was re¬ elected in 1877, the accepted choice of the people, in whose perfect confidence he continues his trust.

Horace P. Biddle

The subject of thus sketch was born in the ancient county of Fairfield, in the State of Ohio, in the year 1814. HLs father was one of the early pioneer settlers in the Marietta Colony, having emigrated there in 1789. It was not, however, until 1802, that he settled in Fairfield County, on Hooking River, about one mile below the town of Logan, where he opened a farm, and continued there to cultivate the soil, which yielded a generous support. On this homestead, Horace was born, and received his first lessons in self dependence, and culti¬ vated his first love for all that is beautiful in nature; laying there the foundation for the honorable achievements of his after life. Here, under the paternal roof, he spent his early years, as a farm hand in the Summer, and a devoted attendant on the district school in the Winter; the former for physical, the latter for intellectual develop¬ ment, succeeding, for the purposes contemplated, satisfactorily in both.

In 1836, when twenty-two years of age, he commenced the study of law, with the late Hocking H. Hunter, of Lancaster, Ohio, upon the recommendation of Hon. Thomas Ewing, then a member of the United States Senate.

With Mr. Hunter, he enjoyed rare opportunities, finding in him a rare friend and an efficient preceptor, who had generally accorded to him all the advantages calculated to facilitate his progress and give strength to his understanding. These excellent opportunities were fully appreciated and carefully utilized; for, in April, 1839, after three years of diligent study, he was admitted to the bar, by the Supreme Court of Ohio, at Cincinnati. In October of the same year, he permanently located in Logansport, Indiana.

From the time of his settlement in Logansport properly com¬ mences his brilliant legal and judicial career. Indeed, prior to that date, he had scarcely begun to take the initiative in professional life. To say, therefore, that his success commenced with his advent into Logansport, is not an over-statement of the facts. The boundaries of a lawyer's practice, in those days, were not circumscribed by county lines, or even circuits; for all of Northern Indiana was an open field, subject to be occupied by the successful and diligent practitioner. The means of conveyance then did not consist, as now, of a cushioned seat in a palace car, moved by the powerful sinews of the "iron horse," but the saddled charger of Arabian blood, over roads scarcely to be dreamed of in this last quarter of the nineteenth century.

Without possessing any special proclivities for political strife, he was occasionally drawn by the popular current in that direction. His experience in this field is well described by another.

" On the nomination of Henry Clay for the Presidency in 1844, he advocated his election, and was placed on the electoral ticket. In 1845, he became a candidate for the State Legislature, but was defeated (by an old settler). He was elected President Judge of the Eighth Judicial District in December, 1846, in which office he continued until 1852. He was a member of the Constitutional Con¬ vention which assembled in 1850. Although the district was against his party, he received a majority of over two hundred votes. In 1852 he was nominated for Congress, but failed to receive the election. He was elected Supreme Judge in 1857, by a large majority, but the Governor (Ashbel P. Willard) refused to commission him, for the reason that no vacancy in the office existed."

After the completion of his judicial term in 1852, he resumed the practice of his profession, in which he acquired a reputation for distinguished success as a barrister.

Again, in 1860, he was elected President Judge of the 11th Judicial Circuit, embracing Cass County, and was re-elected to tbc same position in 1866, without formidable opposition ; completing his second consecutive term in November, 1872.

While occupying the bench, he was especially noted for his learned and impartial adjudication of the questions submitted for his consideration. His decisions were everywhere quoted, and his rulings accepted with little question as to their propriety. As a natural consequence, his popularity was unbounded.

At the election in October, 1874, he was chosen one of the Judges of the Supreme Court, by the largest aggregate vote, and the largest majority ever before received by any candidate, in the history of the State. He still holds that position, enjoying the same high repute for accurate legal discrimination and judicial skill, that characterized his experience in the courts below.

Judge Biddle's fame as Judge and advocate is not the only reflex of his accomplishments. His literary and poetic efforts are not the least of his well-earned acquisitions. At an early age, he began to develop a taste for poetic composition, and some of his juvenile effusions, still preserved, are regarded by some, most capable of judging, as possessing high merit. As early as 1842, he became a contributor to the Southern Literary Messenger , a standard literary journal of that date, furnishing many articles of sterling value. His first collection was published in 1850. In 1852, and again in 1858, greatly enlarged and improved editions of his writings were pub¬ lished and met with an extensive sale. An additional volume of poems was published in-1868, and again in 1872 a new edition appeared and was greeted with expressions of popular favor. More recently, other productions of his pen have appeared, among which may be noted the " Musical Scale," a work said to possess evidence of superior skill in the elucidation of his subject. Another bears the title of "A Review of Prof. Tyndal's Lectures on Sound." "Glances at the World," the authorship of which is attributed to him, was another aspirant for popular favor.

All these publications evince a generally comprehensive knowl¬ edge of the subject discussed, and great originality of thought in his method of maintaining favorite propositions.

Among the many illustrious men of Indiana, none, perhaps, are entitled to more prominence than the name and memory of D. D. Pratt. In the hearts of his fellow citizens, this name will ever be dear, and, for generations to come, his record will be handed down, from parent to child, as the exemplification of what is good, pure and noble; an example worthy of emulation.

His mother, Sallie Rodgers Hill, was a remarkable woman, a Baptist of the deepest piety, and early taught her son the principles of Christianity - principles which marked and governed his after life.

standing, where, over sixty years ago, Dr. Pratt began life. With six children to care for, and only sixty acres of stony ground and a small country practice to depend upon, Dr. Pratt sent three boys to college, and provided handsomely for his four daughters, two of whom were step-children.

Mr. Pratt's early years were years of severe toil, necessitated by the circumstances of his father's family. During his attendance at the district school, he manifested an extraordinary interest in his studies, and exhibited powers of intellect which caused his father to resolve upon an education for his son, by which those powers should be developed. In 1825, he entered the Seminary at Cazeuovia, New York, then under the charge of Dr. Porter, and two years later entered the Freshman class of Hamilton College, from which institu¬ tion he graduated in 1831.

Among the graduates on that occasion were Rev. Dr. Kendrick, now President of Rochester University, John Cochrane and Thomas T. Davis, of New York - both honored Congressmen - and Judge 0. S. Williams, of Clinton, N. Y. To Mr. Pratt was awarded the honor of delivering the valedictory address.

Immediately after graduating he accepted a professorship in Mad¬ ison University. Among his preserved papers is a scrap - musty and brown with years - signed by half a dozen who were then students, but who have since become eminent Baptist Doctors of Divinity, signifying their entire satisfaction with his labors as a teacher.

With the means accumulated during his term as Professor, he began the study of law, at Cazenovia, N. Y., in the Winter of 1831, and in the following Spring decided to move westward. A family council was held, which resulted in raising $30 and a silver watch to fit him out for his journey.

After the necessary arrangements had been completed, he took an affectionate leave of his mother, and started on his way. The details of this journey, his trip to Cincinnati, part of which was on foot; the school he taught at Rising Sun, Ind.; his subsequent location in Calvin Fletcher's law office at Indianapolis; his arrival, in 1836, in Logansport, then a mere opening in the wilderness; his early practice as an attorney in Cass County - all these have been so graphically described by himself through the columns of the Logansport Star, that a repetition would be superfluous.

His fidelity to duty while in the office of Mr. Fletcher gained the entire confidence of that gentleman, and not him alone, but all who become acquainted with the young student. Mr. Fletcher's business consisted largely in collecting money. In those days there was no postal money-order system ; no safe and speedy express trans¬ portation, or, in short, any of the facilities which characterize these latter days, and render the shipment of large sums an easy and safe 'matter; and in view of this fact, it was necessary to transport them by trustworthy individuals. Late in the Fall of 1835, Mr. Fletcher, having collected a sum of $2,000 for several firms in Cincinnati, entrusted the funds to Mr. Pratt to be delivered to their several owners. He started on horseback over the Lawrenceburg road, with the money stored safely in his saddle-bags. As he was passing the Branch Bank - then recently established - he was stopped by the Cashier, who brought out some bundles of bank-bills, folded up, which he placed in the saddle-bags, at the same time handing him letters addressed to the several banks to which the money was con¬ signed. He startled Mr. Pratt by announcing that the packages contained $20,000 1 Surprise, however, was succeeded by a feeling nearly akin to fear, as he thought of the danger and responsibility connected with such a mission; but notwithstanding the danger which might arise, he reached his destination safely, and delivered the packages to their several consignees. This incident is only one of many which illustrate his trustworthy character, and the confi¬ dence reposed in him.

Once only was he tempted to depart from the path of recti¬ tude; it was on this occasion when, with $22,000 in his custody, he reached the summit of a hill overlooking the beautiful Ohio, dotted with its rafts and flat-boats bearing their stores of merchandise toward the great southern outlet - the Gulf of Mexico. He had but to sell his horse, and go aboard one of these! The world was before him ; he was a young man of twenty-one, and fortune was within his grasp ! No telegraphic, communication then existed to intercept his flight. There was then no foreign extradition treaty by which he would have been returned to his native land - a felon ! We quote from an article prepared by himself, for the Star :

" I recall the fact that this thought was a tenant of my mind for a moment, and for a moment only. Bless God, it found no hospitable lodgment there any longer! And what think you, gentle reader, were the associate thoughts that came to my rescue ? Away over rivers and mountains a thousand miles distant, in an humble farm house, on a bench, an aged mother reading to her boy from the oracles of God ! "

These were the last words ever uttered by Mr. Pratt; at these words his head dropped back on his chair, and his pure spirit winged its flight to its heavenly abode. His daughter, who was writing as he dictated, became alarmed and called assistance; but too late; the action of the heart, excited by the emotion at the memory of his mother, caused his death ! And so the Christian principles, so early inculcated by that pious mother, and his tender affection for her, became the guarding angels which saved her son from the commission of a great crime, at a time when the voice of the tempter was strong in his heart.

But to return to his earlier history; his time in Mr. Fletcher's law office was characterized by great industry and rapid progress, and he was soon admitted to practice. The bright promises of his youth were realized. In a few years, the fame of the eloquent young advo¬ cate resounded throughout Northern Indiana.

He was one who never courted notoriety. He made himself a necessity in his field of action, and it was often a race between liti¬ gants, to see who should reach his office first. At the time of his election to the United States Senate in 1869, he was recognized as the ablest lawyer in Northern Indiana. Of him, the late Hon. W. Z. Stuart frequently remarked " that Mr. Pratt would develop more original views in a case which he had studied, and maintain them with more authorities, than any man he ever knew."

For twenty-five years he was without a rival in Northern Indiana before a jury. Governor Hendricks and Secretary Thompson divided the palm with him in the South and West. His eminent merits were recognized by the public, and in 1847 - then a young man of 33 - he was nominated for Congress, but was defeated by Charles Cathcart. In 1848, he was one of the Presidential Electors. In 1851-53, he was elected to the Legislature, and became the leader in the House. In 1860, he was Secretary of the National Convention at 'Chicago - which nominated Abraham Lincoln for the Presidency - and attracted great attention by his eloquence and commanding appearance. During the war, Mr. Pratt was a zealous and patriotic advocate of the Union cause. Ilis first-born son fell at Cold Harbor, pierced by the enemy's bullets. To a soldier boy, he was ever generous and open-hearted. When, in 1861, upon three days' notice, Logansport and CasaUounty sent forth two companies of Volunteers, he advanced hundreds of dollars to needy and poor men, who were called away from their families hastily, and without the ability to make provision for their support; requiring no security, and not even demanding the return of the amounts.

In 1863, while engaged in the complications of a law case in Logansport, he received the unanimous nomination of his party - then in the minority - for United States Senator. He was first advised of this fact, through the columns of the Cincinnati Gazette , and the next day, tried his case before a Justice with characteristic coolness.

In 1868, he was elected to Congress by a handsome majority, and the Legislature in 1869, without solicitation on his part, promoted him to the United States Senate.

It was unfortunate that he entered that body so la*e in life. He was then 56 years of age, and, with exception of two terms in the State Legislature, sixteen years before, was without public training. The artificial restraints thrown around him in the National Capital disgusted him and interfered with his splendid oratorical powers. Had his race for Congress in 1847 been successful, he would have gained a reputation as one of the most brilliant statesmen who ever sat in the halls of Congress. He was recognized as one of the ablest men of that body during his service in that capacity, and although he made but few speeches, those he delivered were sound, logical and comprehensive.

For six years, he was a member of both the Claim and Pension Committees, and for two years of that time, was Chairman of the Pension Committee. Millions of dollars were allowed or disallowed, on his recommendation. Had dishonesty been a trait of his charac¬ ter, he might, in this position, have added thousands of dollars to his own purse, unsuspected. So conscientious was he, that Wendell Phillips once remarked, " Pratt is the most absolutely honest man I ever knew."

Upon the expiration of his term as Senator, in 1875, at the solic¬ itation of President Grant, he took charge of the Internal Revenue Department, at a time when the war against the whisky ring was be¬ ginning. The history of this movement has never been written; a partial account appeared in the North American Review , fully justi¬ fying Secretary Bristow and Mr. Pratt, but the real history of that warfare is known only to General Bristow.

He was one of the most cheerful and genial of men, and in his social life, and in all his associations, shed an influence around him, which was like sunshine. It was a pleasure to be in his company. He had a good word for every one, and never descended to gossip. He was patient, mild and forbearing, and never inflicted upon others a recital of his own troubles. He, in common with all mankind, tasted of the bitter waters of affliction. The icy hand of death was laid upon a devoted wife, and two young men, his only sons.

He was twice married - in 1839, to Miss Sophia J. James, of Rising Sun, Indiana, by whom he had four children, only one of whom - a married daughter - now survives.

Although he never sought literary honors, his talents could not pass unappreciated, and in 1872, Hamilton College conferred upon him the honorary degree of LL. D.

He was frequently solicited to address literary societies, but inva¬ riably declined. This was always a source of regret to his friends, as he was recognized as a master of the English language, and his liter¬ ary contributions demanded attention. In his religious views he was a Unitarian ; he believed in God and the future life; his creed was to do right and treat all men with equal consideration. His last act was to dictate the article for the Star, to which we have previously alluded.

Just as the church bells rang out their chimes, on that bright June Sabbath morning, calling the world to worship God in mundane temples, his spirit responded to the call, and soared triumphantly away, beyond the confines of earthly bounds, to chant everlasting praises to his Creator, throughout a blissful eternity, in that temple " not made with hands," and to meet the sainted mother, who, twentysix years previously, had gone to dwell with the Savior she loved ; and the throb which caused the deatli of her son was his deep love for her and the emotion caused by the memory of early precepts inculcated by her, as a guiding star to his future life.

What a blessed reward to that mother have been the noble life and peaceful death of her son ; and, that the last act of his life was the memory of her early teachings, should be an incentive to all mothers to be faithful and earnest in the training of their children, knowing that the principles inoulcated in early childhood govern the future life for good or evil.

- Mr. Haney's parents were not in affluent circumstances, and, as a consequence, were unable to provide him with other educational priv¬ ileges than such as were attainable in the country school of that period; hence, it may be said with propriety, that he was not an edu¬ cated man, in the accepted meaning of the term, yet thoroughly skilled in the details of practical business, such as is acquired only by the experience of years and the active observations of well developed common sense.

He began life on a farm, and received there his early parental training. Afterward, life in a hotel, then an under-clerk in a store, gave variety to his early experience.

At the age of 17 years, without money or estate, he left the pa¬ ternal roof to become the architect of his own fortune. That he succeeded, the sequel fully discloses.

About that time, the Delaware Division of the Pennsylvania Canal was being located from Easton to Bristol, and the opportunity pre¬ senting itself, he became connected with the engineering corps having that work in charge, and with them took his first lesson in experience, holding that position for about one year. He next engaged in run¬ ning coal out on the river, for a short season, then becoming bar¬ tender and stage agent in R. Latimore's hotel, at Easton, Pa. This experience added one year more to his life discipline, after which he accepted the superintendency of a division of the canal, and having succeeded in that trust for a twelve-month, coal boating next engrossed his attention during a like period, at the end of which time he was induced to resume the supervision of the Pennsylvania Canal. On this contract he continued two years, and then left to become a con¬ tractor for the construction of the Delaware and Raritan canal feeder, on the New Jersey side of the Delaware River. He immediately took charge of this work - originally let to Moore & Brown - and completed it in less than one year. He was then employed by the Delaware & Raritan Company to take charge of a portion of said feeder, and continued in their employ about one year longer.

Being satisfied with his experience east, of the Alleglianies, on the 17th day of March, 1835, he turned his face westward, and taking the river route, by steamer, flatboat and pirogue, landed at Peru, Indiana, then all in the wilderness, on the 4th day of July following. Shortly after his arrival in Peru, he took charge of a number of men engaged in the construction of the W. & E. canal. In connection with that charge, he opened a stone quarry below Peru, for John Cooper, contractor for the Peru dam. The same Fall, he took a con¬ tract for the construction of a section of the canal at Lewisburg, and finished it the following year.

Succeeding in this enterprise, he engaged in selling goods at Lew¬ isburg, with Alexander Wilson; also trading with the Indians. Three years later, he purchased Mr. Wilson's interest and continued business alone, trading largely in real estate and canal scrip, with other securities at that point, until the Summer of 1851. On the 15th of July, of that year, he moved to Logansport, where he em¬ barked in general merchandising. In this business, however, he remained but a short time, and then sold out his entire stock. Since that time he has been chiefly engaged in real estate transactions, dis¬ counting moneyed obligations, etc.

For several years he served as President of the Branch Bank of the State of Indiana, at Logansport. In all his business transactions, Mr. Haney has shown himself to be a man of uncommon sagacity and discreetness of judgment, of scrupulous integrity, and gentle¬ manly demeanor.

Mr. Haney was married on the 13th day of December, 183G, to Miss Louisiana Fidler, by whom he had two children - William E., born December 28, 1837, and Maria Emma, bom December 31, 1845, the latter of whom died a few years since.

In his social relations, also, Mr. Haney takes a high rank, making the most of life, for the enjoyments consequent upon a long life of diligent toil, to secure a compensation for his loved ones.

Hon. Charles B. Lasselle

Hon. Charles B. Lasselle was born at Vincennes, Ind., on the 12th day of October, 1819, descending in a direct line from the old stock of French pioneers who explored and settled the Wabash Valley. His paternal ancestors emigrated from Savigny Sur Orge, in the diocese of Paris, about the year 1680, and settled in Montreal, Canada, where they remained nearly a century afterward. His grandfather, Col. James Lasselle, having been appointed to the Indian Agency, at the Miami village of the Ke-ki-on-ga, adjacent to the present city of Fort Wayne, in the Fall of 1776, immediately moved with his family to that point. At that time they were the only white persons in the village, except a few English and French traders.

Here, on the 25th day of February, 1777, Hyacinth, the son of James, and father of Charles B. Lasselle, was born - the first white child born in that locality, so far as history now discloses.

Mr. Lasselle's mother was bom at Vincennes, Ind., in the year 1787. She was the daughter of Major Francis Bosseron, of Revolu¬ tionary memory, who afterward distinguished himself in the civil and military transactions of the Lower Wabash.

In 1833, Charles B., with his father and mother, moved from Vincennes to Cass County, settling on the north side of the Wabash, three miles from Logansport; subsequently becoming a resident of the town.

During the Spring and Fall of 1833, he attended school in the old " Seminary," then the only school in the State north of the Wabash. In 1836, he attended the Indiana University at Blooming¬ ton, remaining there until 1839. Soon after his return from college, he began the study of law in the office of the late Hod. D. D. Pratt, and was admitted to the bar in the Fall of 1842.

About the same time, and for a few years before and after his election, he was assistant editor and publisher of the Logansport Telegraph , a weekly newspaper, of which his elder brother, Hyacinth Lasselle, Jr., was proprietor. In this connection he evinced great talent, developing a clear and methodical style of composition, at once expressive and attractive. His editorial experience naturally diverted his attention from the strictly literary to a consideration of the political questions of the day, for which he conceived a desire for political preferment. Being a close student, his inclination led him to a careful examination of the working system of the State and National Governments. Thus he became, in a limited sense, a poli¬ tician, without being especially an aspirant for office.

In 1862, he was elected over Hon. D. D. Pratt, to represent Cass County in the State Legislature, and, two years later, was re¬ elected to the same position, having served his constituents acceptably during the previous term. In 1868, he was a candidate for Senator from the district composed of the counties of Cass and Fulton. In 1869, and again in 1870 he was re-elected his own successor, the vacancies occasioned by his resignations. This ended his legislative career, and he again devoted his time to the practice of his profession.

Mr. Lasselle, for many years past, has given much time and attention to the history of Cass County, and of the entire Wabash Valley. Indeed his opportunities have been such as to enable him to utilize the large fund of material at his command for these pur¬ poses. He has furnished historical sketches for this and other localities in the State, and otherwise contributed extensively to the general history of the county. To him, therefore, great credit is due for the judicious care he has manifested in preserving from oblivion the records of the past.