Cass County, Indiana - The whole text, 1878 (part 5 of 6)

Mr. McMillcn was born in Perry County, Pennsylvania, July 19, 1803. At the age of four years, he emigrated with his parents, to Highland County, Ohio. His father's family consisted of fourteen children, and at the age of 16 years, he became the main support of the family. An accident happened to his father, by which he was permanently crippled, and being thus incapcitated for active duty, the management of the farm devolved upon his son John; and manfully did he perform the duty thus placed upon him until 24 years of age. At that age, he determined to seek his fortune in the Great West, and, in the year 1827, left the paternal roof, with all his possessions bound in a pocket handkerchief. He traveled on foot to Delphi, Carroll County, Indiana, where he engaged in building log cabins. He was quite expert in hewing puncheon floors and making clap¬ boards for roofing.

Husbanding carefully the profits accruing from his labor, he ac¬ quired a small capital. On the 13th day of May, 1830, he married Miss Elizabeth Manary, who came to Indiana with her parents, two years previous to his arrival. Her father was proprietor of the greater portion of the land upon which the city of Delphi is now located.

In 1832, Mr. McMillen came with his wife to Cass County, and entered a tract of land in Noble Township, which he occupied about two years. He then sold his farm to James Harper, and purchased another tract situated in Jefferson Township. Out of a dense forest, he cleared and improved nearly two hundred acres, and, through all the privations and hardships of pioneer life, toiled cheerfully, day after day, to gain a competence for his loved ones. His family consisted of six children, three sons and three daughters, and of this number, the only survivors, are Elizabeth, wife of Mr. J. H. McMillen, and Maria, wife of Mr. G. W. Burrow, of Logansport.

As a farmer, Mr. McMillen was very successful, and, by prudent management, accumulated a large estate. - In 1863, he moved to Logansport, and invested largely in real estate, and in these transac¬ tions was very fortunate. He died on the 2d day of February, 1876, after a short illness of four days' duration.

Mr. McMillen was one who never said to hungry poverty, " Go!' ' Kindness was one of the prominent characteristics of his nature, and his heart and purse were ever open to the poor and needy. He fre¬ quently talked with his family and friends about death, and expressed the wish that he might be called hence without the pain of a linger¬ ing illness. He was a kind husband and an indulgent father, and his memory is revered by many who have cause to bless his charity.

Robert McMillen, son of Thomas and Jane Irwin McMillen, was bom in Ross County, Ohio, August 30, 1800. His father, Thomas McMillefi, was born in Cuml>erland County, Pennsylvania. He married Miss Jane Irwin, a native of the same county, and soon after his marriage moved West, locating in Ross County, Ohio. In the year 1807, he removed to Highland County, in the same State, where he purchased a tract of land and engaged in the pusuit of farming, and remained engaged in that occupation until his death, which occurred in October, 1819.

Four years after the death of his father (August 30, 1823), Robert was apprenticed to a millwright, with the view of learning that trade. He served an apprenticeship of four years, and at the end of that time was pronounced a competent mechanic by his preceptor.

Finding an inviting field awaiting his services, lie applied his energies, immediately, to the practice of his chosen avocation, build¬ ing mills and iron works in Ohio and Kentucky, during the Summer, and constructing cotton gins and presses, during the Winter, in Mis¬ sissippi and other Southern States. He continued in this occupation until September, 1830, at which time he accompanied his mother and brothers to the Wabash Valley, and, with them, engaged in the arduous undertaking of locating and clearing a farm. They located in this county, where Robert became acquainted with Miss Rosanna Harper, only daughter of James Harper, Esq.; friendship soon ripened into love, and on the 10th day of July, 1834, they were united in the holy ties of matrimony. This marriage was blessed by eleven children, named, respectively, James Harper, Thomas Jefferson, Quincy Adams, Franklin, William Harvey, R. Milton, George, Mar¬ garet Jane, Angeline, Cornelia and Emily. Of this number, all save one grew to maturity.

During the dark days of the rebellion, four of his sons - Thomas J., Quincy A., James and William - volunteered their services in defense of their country, and with patriotic valor, bade adieu to their loving parents and friends, for the uncertainties* of soldier life. Thomas J. received a severe wound during one of his engagements with the enemy, and Quincy A., after a brave career its a soldier, yielded up his life in the gloomy hospital wards of Memphis, Ten¬ nessee.

Mr. McMillen is one of the early pioneers of this county, and has been prominently associated with its improvements for nearly half a century. He has always felt a lively interest in the public improve¬ ments of the county, and has been especially active in the advance¬ ment of her educational interests. He took a prominent part in the founding of the Logansport Female Academy.

He is well known and universally respected throughout the county for his sterling qualities and manly integrity. HLs political views have ever been in sympathy with the principles of the Repub¬ lican party, since its organization, previous to which time, he acted with the Whig party. He has never aspired to political honors, con¬ tent to live a quiet life amid the shades of his rural home, undis¬ turbed by political tumults. He was strongly opposed to the institution of slavery during its existence, and used his influence and means for its suppression, believing it to be a national evil; and many poor fugitive slaves will remember him with gratitude for valuable assitanc rendered them on their way to liberty and happiness.

He was born in Cass County, Ind., where he received his early education, and where he passed the days of his youth and early man¬ hood, until he volunteered his services in defense of the nation's honor during the days of the rebellion. A wound received during a battle with the enemy rendered him incapable of performing further military duty, in consequence of which he was honorably discharged from the service. He then returned home and engaged in the drug business, which he abandoned several years later, aud removed to Cincinnati, O. On the 11th day of July, 1864, he was united in marriage to Miss Sallie B. Moore, daughter of C. Moore, Esq., of Cincinnati, whose untimely death he was called upon to lament two years later, Feb. 12, 1866. He then removed to Idaville, Ind., and engaged in the practice of medicine, and was engaged in that profes¬ sion a number of years. On the 6th day of January, 1869, he was a second time united in marriage, Miss Adelia Wickersham becoming his bride. On the 6th day of November, 1875, the community was shocked by intelligence of the sudden death of this worthy citizen. He returned from a funeral and complained of feeling ill. He walked to the table, upon which were two vials, and administered a dose of what he supposed to be the necessary remedy, after which he went to the barn to feed tbe horses. His agony was increased, and, returning to the house, he discovered, to his horror, that he had taken a violent poison instead of the supposed medicine, which was in the other vial. Antidotes were immediately administered, but without avail, and death ensued in less than half an hour. He was an esti¬ mable citizen, and enjoyed the fullest confidence of bis neighbors, and his sad and sudden death caused universal grief throughout the com¬ munity.

Dr. Justice was born in Fayette County, Indiana, September 21, 1817. His father, Joseph Justice, a native of Pennsylvania, was one among the first settlers near Connersville, then only an Indian trading post, in that part of Indiana Territory now occupied by Fayette County. His paternal grandfather was a soldier of the Revolution, having been in service during the seven years of its continuance.

The maiden name of the mother of Dr. Justice was Delilah Fuel, a native of Virginia. After her marriage, she came west with her husband, who, having selected a choice tract of land, improved it with great care. He was a painstaking man, active in the develop¬ ment of every interest necessary to the well-being of society.

James M., tbe subject of this sketch, began life on a farm, and passed there his boyhood days, acquiring the rudiments of his early education in an old log school house, no teacher being employed, ex¬ cept during the Winter se;ison. Until he reached his 20th year, no other or better opportunities were accorded him. At that age, he attended one term at the High School at Connersville, Ind., after which he was prepared to enter upon his professional career. Then, with a fixed purpose in his mind, he entered the office of Dr. Jeffer¬ son Helm, of Rush County, Ind., as a student of medicine. While there, he pursued his studies with unremitting energy', until the com¬ pletion of his course, when he received a license to practice his profe-sion. In order, however, to qualify himself more thoroughly, he subsequently entered the Ohio Medical College, from which insti¬ tution he graduated, with the highest honors.

He was married in December, 1841, to Miss Z. A. Norris, daughter of the late Capt. Norris, of Kentucky, by whom he had three children - two sons and one daughter, to whom he has given the highest educational privileges.

Dr. Justice first located for the practice of his profession, in Camden, Carroll County, Ind., where he enjoyed an extensive and lucrative practice, for a period of twenty years. Removing thenoe, he came to Logansport in 1861, where he has since continued to reside, identifying himself fully with all the material interests of the city and county, practicing his profession and at the same time superintending and managing his extensive farming interests.

Aside from his professional and social relations, he has always taken an active interest in the political affairs of the country - local as well as State and National; affiliating, first, with the old Whig, and later the Republican party. He was first elected a member of the City Council of Logansport in 1862, serving, almost successively, nine years, as a member of that body.

In 1864, he was a delegate to the National Convention at Balti¬ more, which nominated Mr. Linooln a second time for the Presidency. He was District Elector for General Grant, in 1868, ably and thor¬ oughly canvassing the district.

In stature, Dr. Justice is full six feet; of commanding appearance and well developed physique ; positive in manner, of active energy and acute sensibility.

Thomas H. Bringhurst was born in Philadelphia, Pa., in the year 1819. He was apprenticed to learn the trade of cabinet maker, and served five years, that period being considered necessary in those days for the acquisition of a mechanical art..

In 1840, he emigrated to Alabama; but, in the following year, returned to the North, and located in Dayton, O., where he remained until 1845. In that year, he came to Logansport and built a saw-mill

In 1846, he enlisted in the First Indiana Regiment, and served one year in the war with Mexico. At the expiration of his term of enlistment, he returned to Logansport and resumed his former occupa¬ tion, in which he remained engaged until the year 1849. In that year, he bought the office of the Logansport Telegraph at a cost of $350, and, with a cash capital of $30 (which he received from the Government for extra pay as a soldier), established the Logansport Journal , which he conducted, as editor and proprietor, until the year 1870, a period of twenty-one years. In the year 1853, he was elected Mayor of the city of Logansport, and served in that capacity three years.

In 1861, he assisted in enlisting the Forty-Sixth Indiana Regiment, and was appointed Major. After a service of eight months in that capacity, he was promoted to the office of Lieutenant Colonel, and, later, to the office of Colonel of his regiment. His regiment figured prominently in the campaigns of the Mississippi River, and in the States of Mississippi, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas and Louisiana.

He was appointed Special Agent for the Post Office Department in 1869, and continued in the office until May, 1875, at which time he resigned.

He has been identified with the business interests of this city many years, and in many ways. In 1874, he became identified with the Logansport Manufacturing Company, and is now Vice President of that corporation.

Samuel McFadin, the father of the gentleman whose name appears above, was a native of Bedford County, Pa. He moved to Fairfield County, 0., where he married Mary Graybill, a native of Washington County, Pa., in the year 1825. The marriage ceremony was j ter formed by Rev. John Wright, father of John W. and Williamson Wright, of this city. Mr. McFadin and his faithful wife have long slept the sleep which knows no waking. Their son, Samuel L. McFadin, was born in Greenfield Township, Fairfield County, 0., Oct. 4, 1826, on the banks of the Hockhocking, and in the vicinity of " Mount Pleasant," or " Standing Stone," as it was called by the Indians - a romantic spot, beautifully described by Emerson Bennett in his story, " The Forest Rosea land of rocks and hills, where the laurel, mountain tea and birch bark abound. In April, 1839, he came with his pareuts to the flowery prairies of Indiana, and settled on a farm a few miles north of Logansport. For a number of years he worked on the farm, and then entered upon an apprenticeship as a carpenter. After acquiring pro¬ ficiency in that trade, he began to apply his knowledge to practical use, and there are still a number of buildings in this city which attest the excellence of his workmanship - notably Israel Johnson's warehouse and Philip Pollard's residence.

In the year 1846, during the war with Mexico, he enlisted with the Cass County Volunteers, and was elected Corporal of his com¬ pany, at the mouth of the Rio Grande. The record of this company is a brave one, and one of which the survivors are justly proud.

In 1850, he began the study of law* with the late Hon. W. Z. Stuart, and in the same year became a candidate for the State Legis¬ lature, in opposition to the late Hon. D. D. Pratt, but was defeated in the race.

Two years later, he received the Democratic nomination for Pros¬ ecuting Attorney, and at the following election received a handsome majority over his opponent, filling the office faithfully for a term of two years.

He filled the responsible office of Mayor of the city of Logans¬ port during four terms; was repeatedly chosen to represent his county in the State Legislature, and while serving in that capacity during the session of 1869, was re-elected Mayor of the city of Logansport. He resigned his seat in the Legislature, and returned home to assume the duties of that office.

The parents of Mr. Jacobs were of German extraction. They were natives of the State of Pennsylvania, where they resided until their death. Their son, who is the subject of this sketch, was born in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, June 16,1821. During his youth, he was engaged in farming with his father, who followed that occupa¬ tion. He afterward came to the State of Indiana, and for a period of twenty years has been a resident of this State.

In 1856, he wrote and published a volume of 200 pages, entitled "The Seventh Angel," which returned him a handsome compensation for his labors, as it met with very ready sale. While this fact could fail to be flattering to the author, it served, at the same time, to prove the merits of the work. This volume received the highest commen¬ dation from George D. Prentice, probably one of the most competent and thorough critics of the oountry.

As a public speaker, Mr. Jacobs is very popular; producing a sound, logical and comprehensive argument, whenever called upon to address a public assembly ; at the same time possessing the faculty of adducing facts and points without a superfluity of words.

In the Spring of 1877, he was the choice of his party for the office of Mayor of the City of Logansport, and was elected over all opposition, by a handsome majority, for a term of two years.

He is a gentleman of more than ordinary ability, and, but for his extreme modesty, might have filled a higher position than he occupies at present.

During his administration of the city government, his impartial dispensat ion of justice has won the confidence of all classes, and the good will entertained for him by the German residents found expres¬ sion on Christmas, 1877, in the presentation of a handsome gold headed cane, of which the recipient is justly proud.

Mr. John C. Merriam, the senior partner of the above firm, came from his native town of Brandon, Vt., to Logansport, in Au¬ gust, 1843, being then 24 years old. He accompanied Mr. Henry Martin from Vermont, who opened a store in Logansport after their arrival, in which young Merriam was employed as a clerk until the Spring of 1844. In this year, Mr. Martin started a branch store at Monticello, and placed Mr. Merriam in charge of the establishment.

Soon after. his marriage, he formed a copartnership with Isaac Reynolds, in Monticello, and they continued together in business until the Spring of 1848. He severed his connection in this with Mr. Reynolds, and returned to Logansport. He then associated with William Chase and George P. Smith, to engage in the mercantile trade in this city, and they bought the stock of goods belonging to the firm of Taber & Chase, becoming their successors in the business.

In 1853, the firm of Pollard & Wilson was dissolved, and Thorna 8 H. Wilson, of that firm, and Mr. Merriam, E. S. Rice and Meredith H. Thomas combined under the name of Wilson, Merriam & Co. In addition to the stock of the old firm of which Mr. Merriam was a member, they bought that of Pollard & Wilson, combining the two as one stock.

Mr. Thomas withdrew from this firm previous to 1857, and in that year, Mr. Wilson also retired, leaving Messrs. Merriam and Rice with the stock. They were then joined by John E. Howes, and the name of the firm became Merriam, Rice & Howes. This part¬ nership continued without change until 1865, when Mr. Rice bought the interest of Mr. Howes. These two gentlemen, Mr. Merriam and Mr. Rice, continued the business until 1872, when Mr. E. L. Metz¬ ger became a partner, and the style of the house was altered to Merriam, Rice & Co., which title it still bears.

They are popular and extensive dealers in dry goods and general hardware, and occupy two large salesrooms. The rooms are in the same building, adjoining each other, and are connected by arched openings at front and rear, so that the partners have individual over¬ sight and supervision of both establishments.

Elihu S. Rice

of the firm of Merriam, Rice & Co., was born in the t°wn of Pavilion, Genesee County, New York. He came to Logansport in 1839, and began his business experience in 1843, at the age of 16 years, as a clerk in the house of Henry Martin & Co. He remained with them until they closed their business, in 1844.

In 1853, he joined J. C. Merriam and others, organizing the firm of Wilson, Merriam & Co., as the successors of Pollard & Wilson and of Taber & Chase.

Through all the business changes of the various firms with which they have been connected since 1853, he and Mr. Merriam have been constant associates and partners.

Frederick Brown, the father of the gentleman for whom this biography is prepared, was born in Cumberland County, Pennsyl¬ vania, April 23, 1799. His father, Frederick William Brown, was born in Hamburg, Germany, in the year 1731. When Frederick was 3 years of age, he moved with his parents to St. Clairsville, Bel¬ mont County, Ohio, where his father died in 1818. His mother, whose maiden name was Dorathy Haues, was born in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, in the year 1802, and died at Alexandria, Kentucky, in the year 1834.

On the 5th day of July, 1821, Frederick Brown married his present wife and companion, Miss Mary Strawn, at the homestead of her parents, near Alexandria, Kentucky. In the year 1823, they moved to West Carlisle, Coshocton County, Ohio, where they resided seven years. In the Spring of 1830, they removed to Alexandria, Kentucky. In November, 1805, they came to Logansport, where they still reside. Mary Brown, the wife of Frederick Brown, is the daughter of John and Elizabeth Strawn. She was born in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, March 12, 1801. When 3 years of age, she moved with her parents to Hamilton County, Ohio, and in 1820, to the homestead purchased by her parents near Alexandria, Kentucky, where her father died in 1834, at the advanced age of 89 years. Two years later, her mother died at the age of 75 years.

John Brown, for whom this biography is written, was born in West Carlisle, Coshoctnn County, Ohio, on the 13th day of February, 1825. In the Spring of 1830, he removed with his parents to Alexan¬ dria, Campbell County, Kentucky, where he resided until the Summer of 1857. He enjoyed a good common school education, and at the age of 17 years, entered his father's general merchandise store as book¬ keeper and salesman; and in that capacity remained employed seven years. During this period, he married his present wife, on the 3d day of January, 1847. In the Spring of 1850, his father gave him and his younger brother, James, an equal interest with him in his store. The business was then conducted under the firm name of F. Brown & Sons. This relation continued, and the business prospered under the new management until the Spring of 1857, when John withdrew from the firm, and the copartnership ceased so far as he was concerned. During the existence of this firm, he was the general mauager and financier of an extensive business carried on by them. His main object in severing this connection was to seek a new and more prosperous location for business. After a tour of investigation to several prominent places West, to which he had been referred, he decided to make Logansport his future home and place of business. He purchased the well known business property on the northwest cor¬ ner of Market and Third streets, which had been built and occupied by his uncle and cousin several years previous. About the 1st of August, 1857, he brought his family to this city, and one month later a large stock of goods consisting of general merchandise, which he opened first in the three-story stone front building, three doors west of the coiner, and about a montli later, removed the stock to his own building, which he continued to occupy for a period of more than eighteen years.

In November, 1875, he sold his corner property, and about a month later, removed his stock to the premises now occupied by him, at No. 100 Market street, when he associated with him his son Will¬ iam H. Brown, and since that time the business has been transacted in the firm name of John Brown & Son. They carry a large and complete assortment of dry goods, boots and shoes, which they buy and sell exclusively for cash, at the lowest possible living profit.

toward its public and private improvements, since he has been identi¬ fied with it. His success in business may be attributed to the assiduity with which he has always applied his energies to his mercantile pursuits, living strictly within his income, and being prompt in meeting all business obligations.

His wife, Ellen Brown, is the daughter of Jonathan and Susanna Horsfall. She was born in the town of Winters, Yorkshire County, England, on the 10th day of December, 182G. When Ellen was six years of age, her mother, with a family of eight children, left her native place for this country, to join the father, who had preceded them two years, for the purpose of selecting a desirable location for their future home. They sailed ftom Liverpool on the ship "Jubilee," for New York City, and were eight weeks in making the trip across the ocean. They were met by the father, on their arrival, and, after a sojourn of two months in that city, they removed to a point about twelve miles from Philadelphia, in Montgomery County, Pa., where they resided three years. They then moved westward by wagon, over the Alleghany Mountains to Pittsburgh ; thence by steamboat to Newport, Ky., which point they reached in the Spring of 1834. Five years later, her father purchased a farm near Alexandria, Ky., where the parents, with the younger portion of the family, moved, and continued to reside, until the death of the father, which occurred in the Fall of 1842, and in the 60th year of his age. The mother died at the residence of her daughter, Mrs. Mary Clemons, at Alex¬ andria, Ky., on the 19th day of December, 1863, at the advanced age of 77 years. They were both devoted members of the Baptist Church, to which they united themselves when quite young. Ellen, their daughter, experienced a clear change of heart, in her seventeenth year, and became identified with the same church to which her parents belonged. In the year 1856, she united with the M. E. Church of Alexandria, and later, by letter, with the Broadway M. E. Church, of Logansport, in which she has continued to be a faithful and zealous laborer, until the present time.

William H. Brown, the only son and living child of John and Ellen Brown, was born in Alexandria, Ky., May 23, 1850. His time, from eight to twenty years of age, was passed, principally, in the schools of Logansport. During his vacations, he improved his time in his father's store, acquainting himself with the business, and preparing himself for an honorable and useful manhood. While in school, he made rapid advancement in all his studies, and in the store acquired good business habits, and evinced an especial taste for book¬ keeping.

In the Summer of 1872, when 22 years of age, he accepted the proffered position of Auditor of the Logansport, Crawfordsville & Southwestern Railway Company, and, while in their employ, filled the responsible offices of Treasurer and Paymaster, to the entire sat¬ isfaction of the company. In the Fall of 1874, he resigned his position on account of impaired health, precipitated by the arduous labors connected with his office. He passed the Winter of 1874 and the Summer of 1875 on the Pacific Coast, with a view of recuper¬ ating his health. He returned home about the 1st of August, 1875, and, on the 29th of December, of the same year, he was united in the holy ties of matrimony, with Miss Otie W. Hamilton, of Cliillicothe, Ohio.

On the 12th day of January, 1876, he purchased an interest in his father's store, and is now established in business with him, under the firm name of John Brown & Son.

Father Francis Lawler

The subject of this biography is the Pastor in charge of St. Vin¬ cent de Paul Church, the first Catholic society organized in the city. He was bom in Ireland in the year 1822, but when he was two years old his father's family emigrated to America and settled at Hogansburg, Franklin County, N. Y. He remained there assisting his father upon the farm until he was 14 years of age. In the year 1836, his father became impressed with the greater chances of success offered in the Western States, and as Kentucky was then being rap¬ idly populated by a tide of emigration flowing to its borders, he removed his family there and located at Frankfort.

Soon after their arrival in their new home, Francis was placed as a pupil in St. Thomas Seminary, located near Bcardstowu. It was during the three years spent in this institution that he laid the founda¬ tion for an education which has since brought him many honors.

He was ordained priest on the 26tb of December, 1845, and was at once placed on missionary duty in the State of Kentucky, remain¬ ing so employed until 1847. In this year, he accepted the station of instructor in St. Joseph College, and performed the duties so accepta¬ bly that at the end of one year his merits as an im-tractor attracted the attention and favor of the officers of St. Mary's College, and they chose him Vice President of that institution, he being then only 26 years of age. He was continued in this capacity for tour years, at which time he hail so identified himself with the proper success of the College that he was promoted to the highest honors, and called to the chair of President, filling this position of trust and responsibility until 1856.

At this period in his history, he removed to Indiana and was made an officer of Notre Dame College, the largest Catholic institution of learning in the West, located in St. Joseph County. After two years thus spent, he was recalled to Kentucky to take control of Bishop Carroll's Seminary, but returned again to Indiana in 1859, and was placed over the congregation of La Porte and its missions as Pastor.

In 1870, he was called from La Porte to the city of Logansport to take charge of St. Vincent de Paul Church, which at that time was the only Catholic congregation in the city. Under Father Lawler's administration, and the power and force of his ministry, he has so largely increased the membership that there have grown two other prosperous societies from his charge, a conclusive evidence of the reverence his people repose in him for his ability and teachings, and venerate him for his piety and kindly offices when the hours of trouble and affliction come. His life has been fraught with good works, and the future awaits him with bounteous and abundant rewards.

" Fame looks to the clash of resounding arms, and the smoke and carnage of the battle-field, for its trophies; but true worth is demon¬ strated by a patient and persistent couise of honest industry," and the record of a life well spent, of triumphs over obstacles, and per¬ severance under diffiulties, when imprinted on the pages of history, presents to the youth of rising generations an example worthy of their emulation. In the following sketch we endeavor to give an out- 1 line of a remarkable life.

Allen E. Taylor was born in the city of Baltimore, Md., on the I 19th day of September, 1817. While quite young, he moved, with his parents, to the State of New York. At a proper age, he was ap¬ prenticed to a merchant in Balston Spa. with whom he remained four years. In 1836, he went to Yates County, N. Y., and accepted a position as clerk in a mercantile establishment, at Starkey. He continued in this capacity one year, and at the end of that time he removed to Licking County, Ohio, where he engaged his services as salesman in a store. He remained thus engaged, until the Fall of 1839. At that time, he removed to Jeffersonville, Ind., where he again engaged in mercantile pursuits. Two years later, he removed to New Albany, Ind., and, with a change of location, changed his businoss. Having a desire to see more of the world than could be seen within the narrow sphere of a clerk's life, he accepted a position as clerk on a steamboat, plying the waters of the Lower Mississippi and its tributaries. From this position he worked his way to the office of Captain, and pursued the life of a river-man, until the Spring of 1846. He then returned to New Albany, and opened a retail, grocery. On the 13th day of April, 1848, he was united in the sacred ties of matrimony, with Miss Julia L. Tuley, of Louisville, Ky. Soon after his marriage, he removed with his young bride, to Covington, Ind., and again embarked in the retail grocery enterprise, After a residence of one year in that place, during which time he was very successful in his business, he again changed his location, and removed to Terre Haute, Ind. In the Spring of 1856, he was elected Treasurer of that city, and served one term in that capacity. He continued to do business in Terre Haute, until the year 1860. He then removed to Fulton County, Ind., and opened a general merchan¬ dise store in Rochester, at which place he continued to sell goods un til 1864. Closing out his establishment there, in that year, he came to Logansport, and since that time, has been one of her honored and respected citizens. Here he engaged in the livery and omnibus busi¬ ness and continued in that line for a period of four years. In 1868, he again embarked in the mercantile enterprise, and for a period of six years, was thus engaged. In the year 1874, he determined to try the part of host, and, accordingly, purchased a half interest in the Murdock Hotel, of Logansport. Becomiug dissatisfied with this mode of life, he disposed of his interest to his partner, Mr. Jones, and again assumed control of the omnibus line, in which business he Is now engaged. During his residence in Logansport, his superior qualities have been repeatedly recognized by his fellow citizens, by whom he was elected to the office of Councilman from his ward, and later, to the office of City Treasurer, in which capacity he served two consecutive terms. Throughout a long and checkered life, during which he passed through many vicissitudes, his energy, industry and honesty have been the ruling elements in his character; and these qualities have made themselves apparent to all with whom he has been associated. And now, in the sixty-first year of his age, he is still engaged in active .life, in the possession of a vigorous constitution, and enjoying the fullest confidence and respect of all his friends and acquaintances.

Mr. Messinger was born at Long Island, N. Y., in the year 1835. While he was quite young, his parents removed to the western part of the State, and liKiated in Wayne County, where the subject of this sketch acquired his early education at the district school. His school life was limited to this period, and his education is due to a patient and persistent course of study, out of school hours, and sinoe the close of his school life.

At the age of nineteen years, he determined to seek his fortune on life's highway, and believing the West to be the most inviting field, left his home, with that end in view. He first located in Hills¬ dale County, Michigan, where he accepted employment with his brother, who was engaged in the manufacture of fanning-mills. During the time he was thus employed, he accumulated a capital of several hundred dollars, and with the means thus acquired, embarked in business for himself. He located in Monticello, Indiana, where his business improved rapidly, and yielded handsome returns. In 1861, he came to LogansjKirt, and opened an establishment for the manufacture of fanning-mills and pumps. He conducted this enter¬ prise successfully, and with financial profit, until the year 1873. In that year, his establishment was destroyed by fire. This misf ;rtune, although it crippled him, did not disable him, financially, and he im¬ mediately adopted measures for the re-establlshment of his business. He again put his factory in operation, and conducted the business, in person, until the year 1875.

During his residence in Logansport, his strict attention to business and probity of character gained the confidence of all; and, in 1875, when his party awarded him the nomination for City Treasurer, the opposition refused to nominate a candidate for the same office. He served faithfully, in this capacity, for a term of two years, and at the expiration of his term, was again nominated, and re-elected without opposition.

This is the only public office he has ever held, and the fact that he was twice elected to such a responsible position, without opposi¬ tion, is a high testimonial to his integrity and business ability.

Charles H. Randall was born in Dover, N. H., March 24, 1828. He is a son of Charles Randall, a veteran of the war of 1812. His mother, whose maiden name was Abigail Dame, was a native of Lee, N. H., which was also the native city of his father. His parents remained in that city until their decease. Their son, Charles H., was engaged as a farmer boy, until sixteen years of age. He theu learned the trade of house-carpenter, and was engaged as journeyman, n that branch of industry, for a period of five or six years. He subsequently removed to Massachusetts, and was engaged as pattern maker in a machine shop, in the city of Boston.

He then experienced a desire to move beyond the boundaries of New England, and see something of the Great West. After an ex¬ tended tour through a number of Western cities, he located in Logans¬ port, in the year 1865. He accepted a position with Mr. Charles B. Knowlton, in whose employ he remained eight years.

At the end of that time, he accepted employment with the Eel River Railway Company, as inspector of pumps and bridges. In the Spring of 1862, he married Mrs. Augusta J. Thlssell, a native of the State of Massachusetts. By this marriage, he is the father of two children - Charles A. and Hattie J. In 1871, Mr. Randall was elected to the City Council, from the First Ward, and was one of the first Couneilmen elected from that ward. In 1875, he changed his vocation, and for a period of two years acted as Captain of Police. His faithful discharge of duty in this position led to his election (in May, 1877) to the office of City Marshal, for a term of two years.

Politically, his principles are in accord with the doctrines advocated by the Democratic party. He has never identified himself with any religious denomination, and, being a member of none, contributes toward all with equal liberality.

The gentlemen constituting the above named firm are both what may justly be termed "self-made" men, and to this class we may accord more praise than to any other.

When men of ability, energy and determination embark in an enterprise, with few advantages and many discouragements, and, by their own exertions, succeed in elevating themselves to a first-class position in the commercial scale, the city or town wherein they reside is certainly benefited, and they feel a degree of pride in adding to the wealth of the city which has seen their rise and prosperity.

Such is the case with the gentlemen above named. As young men, with comparatively nothing except their knowledge of the business which they had selected, they opened a small shop, in the year 1871, near the Pan Handle freight depot, where they engaged in the manufacture of bent carriage work and moldings, doing nearly all the work themselves, and economizing in every way to avoid unnecessary expense. Since that time, they have gradually increased their facilities, and have added other branches of industry to their business, increasing the number of their employes. Thus, from a very small beginning, has grown an establishment which stands sec¬ ond to none in the list of Logansport's manufacturing enterprises.

They now own and occupy a large stone building, on the corner of Spear and Berkley streets, filled with the latest and mast approved machinery for the manufacture of sash, doors, blinds, moldings, brackets, eta, and for doins all kinds of planing and dressing of lumber. Connected with this, they have an extensive lumber yard, and are prepared to fill any lumb6r bill, complete, on short notice. They have, also, a large two-story brick wareroom and office building, where, at all times, may be found a complete stock of their manufac¬ tured goods. In addition to this, they have erected eleven large, commodious dwelling houses, from which they derive a handsome revenue.

That they have made wonderful progress there is no question, and that they will eventually become one of the leading institutions in this community, their past record is a sufficient guarantee.

John H. Peck

The monument may crumble, the descendants may move to dis¬ tant regions, and the resting place of honored remains may become a matter of indifference or oblivion; but the story of a life, impressed in print, remains a lasting monument and a frequent reminder of good deeds accomplished in preceding generations, stimulating the youth of other generations to similar good deeds and accomplishments. In the following sketch, we present a brief outline of one who, by his own energy and persistence, has conquered difficulties and gained for himself a competence and the esteem and good will of his fellow citizens.

John H. Peck was born in Fairfield, Greene County, Ohio, on the 19th day of April, 1835. He attended the common school until eleven years of age, and then entered upon an apprenticeship as a cigar maker. After acquiring proficiency in the trade, he started on a tour, and after working in many different towns and cities throughout the West, finally decided to make Logansport his future home and place of business. With a borrowed capital of $360.00 he opened a small cigar.store in this city, on the 29th day of October, 1860. By economy and close attention to business, he accumulated some means, canceling his obligation to the friend who advanced the money where¬ with to open the establishment.

On the 1st day of April, 1858, Mr. Peck and Mrs. Maggie E. Whiteside were united in marriage, at the house of Rev. Dr. Ryder, Pastor of St. Paul's Church, Chicago.' Two children blessed this union, named respectively Pearl, born May 4, 1869, and Daisy Agnes, born Aug. 19, 1872. On the 30th day of April, 1870, little Pearl died, and loving hands laid her tenderly to rest. Daisy Ls still living.

In the Spring of 1873, Mr. Peck built the handsome stone front storeroom which he now occupies, at No. 424 Broadway, and which we may justly style the handsomest front in the city. No establish¬ ment in the city more fully illustrates the truth of the Scotch proverb that " mony a miekle makes a muckle," than his. By the faithful and persistent exercise of the virtues of industry and economy, he has been able to add to Logansport one of its handsomest business structures. He sells a superior quality of goods, and by upright dealing with all men has won the public confidence, and enjoys a lucrative trade.

On the 23d day of December, 1873, he became a member of Eel River liodge, No. 417, I. O. O. F., and on the second Thursday of April, 1874, was elevated to the Royal Purple Degree of Cass En¬ campment, No. 119, and has passed the chairs of both institutions.

. He was a charter member of Omega Lodge, No. 108, Knights of Honor, instituted April 30, 1875, and attended the first session of the Grand Lodge of the World, held at Indianapolis, in May, 1875, as Representative from his lodge. This lodge soon after surrendered its charter, and ceased to exist. He was also a charter member of Apollo Lodge, No. 62, Knights of Pythias, instituted June 30, 1875. He was elected First Chancellor Commander of this lodge, and received the Grand Lodge Degree, at Richmond, Ind., on the fourth Tuesday of January, 1876. In all these relations he has sustained the reputation which has characterized him through life - an upright, honest man.

Among the various enterprises which go to make up the prosper¬ ity of the city of Logansport, the sewing machine interest is one which deserves notice. This labor-saving invention has become deservedly popular among the people, and its popularity does not diminish with time. Foremost among the requirements of this enter¬ prise is the necessity 'of an able man to superintend the details and supply the demands of the people. We feel warranted in stating that this requirement is met by the gentleman who presides over the j interests of the Singer Sewing Machines in this city.

He was born in Clermont County, O., on the 29th day of August, 1850. During his boyhood and early youth he was engaged on his father's farm; and, until nineteen years of age, remained thus em¬ ployed.

In the year 1869, he left his home and went to the State of I Illinois, where he engaged his services as teacher in a district school. By this means he obtained a sufficient amount to enable him to spend one year in Abingdon Seminary, at Abingdon, Illinois.

In the Fall of 1871, he engaged as agent for the Singer Manu¬ facturing Company in the sale of their machines, and remained in their employ until the 23d day of May, 1877. On that day, he purchased the company's office at this place, and engaged in the bus¬ iness on his own account. On the 25th day of September, 1873, he married Miss Mary F. Fancher, who came with her parents from Ohio to Cass County, when quite young. One child, Roscoe, has blessed this union.

Mr. Washburn is a wide-awake, energetic man, always alive to the interests of his business, and the general prosperity of the city. He controls the sewing machine interest of this city, in a great degree, and sells a machine of acknowledged superiority.

About the year 1780, Peter Martin, at the age of 18 years, emi¬ grated from Germany to the United States, and first settled in Penn¬ sylvania, near the city of Philadelphia, whence, after a few years, he removed to Somerset County, in the same State, where he married, and settled down to his life-long occupation - farming. Here he lived and reared a family of four children - three sons and one daughter. At the age of 80 years, he was gathered to his father's, leaving his wife to walk the balance 'of life's journey alone. She survived his death fifteen years, and then departed to join him in ; "the Summer Land." The names of their children were Jacob, Peter and David. Peter, the third child, was born at the old home, near Berlin, Somerset County, Pa., in the year 1803. He, in com- I mon with the other members of the family, was reared a farmer, and received a limited common school education, remaining at home, assisting in the farm labors, until he attained his majority. After becoming of age, he still contiuued on the old place, and, in fact, i never left the old people, but remained with them until their death,

. taking care of them, and having charge of the farm, until the year 1849. At the age of 25, he was united in marriage to Miss Rebecca ; Long, of the same town.

In the year 1848, the desire to secure homes and lands for his children prompted him to emigrate to a new country, where land could be purchased cheaply. He came to Indiana, ana located some wild lands in Washington Township, Cass County, about eight miles southeast of Logansport; and, in the following year, removed his family to their new home in the wilderness. The family, which con¬ sisted of himself, wife, five sons and three daughters, were all strong, robust and healthy; and, with brave hearts and willing hands, they all took hold of the pioneer work of felling trees, logging, and clearing off their new lands. Peter and his family, by dint of hard labor and persistent effort, managed to live through all the hardships and priva¬ tions incident to pioneer life, and became one of the ''solid" farmers of Cass County, and, as his children grew to maturity, was enabled to assist each one to a farm of their own. He was known and recognized among his many friends and acquaintances as a man of unblemished reputation and integrity. Both himself and wife were members of the German Reformed Church until they came to Cass County. They then united with the Presbyterian Church. It was largely due to his aid and influence that the Union Church of Washington Township was erected. He was a quiet, unostentatious man, who attended strictly to his own business. His wife died in the year 18(53, at the age of 58 years. Peter Martin died in the year 1872, at the age of 09 years. Of the children, Simon is married, has a family, and owns and occupies a farm near the old homestead. Jesse is also married, and has a family of seven sons and one daughter, and owns and occupies a large farm near the old homestead. Herman is married, and has a farm adjoining the homestead. Katie died several years ago. Caroline is married to John Martin, Esq., and owns the homestead. Matilda is married, and lives about three miles from the old home.

Francis S., the eldest child, was born at the homestead of his grandfather, in Pennsylvania, on the 22d day of October, 1830. He, in common with his brothers and sisters, assisted in clearing up the new farm in Cass County, attending the common schools of the day (such as they were) until he became of age, after which he worked, at alternate times for five years, as a carpenter. At 23 years of age, he formed the acquaintance of Miss Carrie Sine, daughter of Jacob Sine, Esq., of Washington Township. This acquaintance ripened into courtship and marriage. The marriage ceremony was performed on the 29th day of November, 1855.

They at once began keeping house, and charing up the farm upon which they now reside. He began on eighty acres of wild land, the gift of his father, and to that he has added, by purchase, eighty acres more, so that his home-farm now consists of 160 acres - the larger portion being cleared and improved, and is known as one of the finest farms in Cass County. He also owns other farms in Washington Township, to the amount of 240 acres. His occupation, thus far in life, has been strictly farming. He has never engaged in specula¬ tion, or'uncertain projects. He has a beautiful farm, with convenient and comfortable barns, and out-buildings, for stock and grain.

Mr. Frank Martin (as he is known) is esteemed one of the solid men of Cass County, respected by his acquaintances and loved by his friends and relatives. A man of irreproachable character; a sympa¬ thizing friend ; a tried husband and indulgent father. His family consists of his excellent wife and an interesting group often children - three sons and seven daughters ; all bright, healthy and intelligent, and all living at home with their parents, in one happy family. The names of the children are as follows: Charles H., Mary H., Herman E., Rebecca A., George W., Harriet M., Ella V., Lucy D., Carrie V. M. and Elsie J.

It is with much pleasure that we present our readers with a view of the residence and property of this pioneer family, and this brief sketch of their history, as a monument to their memory, and a tribute of respect to their character and worth.

Mr. Eurit is the son of John Eurit, who was born in the State of Virginia, where he married Miss Mary A. Martin, a native of the same State. In the year 1828, he moved to Indiaua, briuging his wife and four children with him. The children were Stephen, William, Joel and Susan. They located in Park County, where they remained until the year 1833. In that year, they removed to Cass County. Pleased with their location, they decided to make this their future home, and accordingly remain-id here, until the date of their decease.

beyond the cares of earth. Six children were added to the family, after their arrival in Indiana - Nancy, Maria, Catharine, Decatur, Isaiah W. and Rachel. Of this number, Nancy and Catharine are deceased.

Stephen, the elder of this family, was born in Lewis County, Virginia, in the year 1821. The days of his boyhood and youth were passed in the ordinary routine of farm life, and alternate attend¬ ance at the district school. He has been a citizen of this State, since the 7th year of his age, having removed herewith his parents, in the year 1828. On the 19th day of June, 1847, he married Miss Ellen Jane Dalzell. Her father, John Dalzell, was a native of Ireland, and emigrated to Pennsylvania, when 20 years of age, located in Washington County, where he married Miss Lucy Crooks, a daughter of Gen. Richard Crooks, who figured prominently in the war of 1812.

They subsequently removed to Ohio, and remained in that State five years at the end of which time, they removed to Cass County, Ind., where they remained until their death, leaving seven children to mourn their decease.

Their daughter, Ellen, as previously stated, became the wife of Mr. Eurit, and, through the years which have followed her marriage with him has been his constant companion and helpmeet. Eight children have blessed their union, three of whom have passed beyond the tender love and care of their parents, to the embrace of the Tender Shepherd above. Those living are Martha, Mary A., Sarah F., Ida M., and Charles M., and the names of those deceased are William, Lucy E. and Alice.

Mr. Eurit and his estimable wife have been identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church for a period of thirty-five years. They were among the earliest members of the church in ('ass County.

Mr. Eurit is one of the substantial citizens of Cass County; reared to farm life, he has always followed that occupation. He is universally recognized as a gentleman of integrity and sterling quali¬ ties. He is the possessor of more than 200 acres valuable land in this county, the greater portion of which is cleared and in a fine state of cultivation. He does not rank as a politician, but is a cordial supporter of the doctrines of the Republican party.

By honest toil and frugality, he has accumulated a goodly portion of this world's goods, and by careful attention to the science of agri¬ culture, has become one of the most successful farmers of Cass County.

About the year 1808, George Costenborder emigrated from Ger¬ many to the United States and located in the State of Pennsylvania, where he engaged in farming and weaving. He married Miss Eliza¬ beth Stout, a native of Berks County, Penn., in the year 1821. Soon after his marriage, he removed to Lebanon County, Penn., where he remained until 1833. In that year, he removed to Greene Co., O. From thence he removed to Champaign County, O., in the year 1848. He remained there several years, and then removed to Indiana, locat¬ ing in Wabash County; ten years later, he came to Cass County, where he resided until his death, which occurred in the year 1869. He was 78 years of age at the time of his de¬ cease, and lived to see his children all happily married, and settled in life. His wife died in the year 1866, at the age of 68 years. They were the parents of four children, named respectively - John, Mary, Daniel and Joseph.

John was born in Lebanon, Penn., on the 20th day of October, 1822. His opportunities for acquiring an education were very lim¬ ited, sis he was' compelled to labor on the farm, for the support of the family.

When 21 years of age, he went to Dayton, O., where he spent two years, learning the carpenter trade. After acquiriog a good knowledge of the art, he went to work for himself, and followed the trade several years. In consequence of an accident, by which his finger was severed from his hand, in a planing machine, he abandoned that trade and purchased a mill, in Dayton, and remained engaged in that enterprise several years, with financial success.

On the 6th day of May, 1847, he was united in marriage to Miss Susan Derrickson, in the city of Dayton, Ohio. In the year 1855, he sold his mill property and removed to El Dorado, Preble County, Ohio, where he purchased an interest in a steam grist-mill, and, at the end of the year, again sold out, and removed to Indiana. After prospecting in several localities, he finally purchased land on the section where he now resides - about nine miles east of Logans¬ port. The property, at that time, consisted of a saw-mill and a log house. Beyond this, scarcely any improvements had been made.

He immediately moved his family to the farm, and began making improvements ; and by the year 1864, he had completed and put in operation a fine flouring-mill, which has been a source of profit to himself and a great convenience to the residents of that locality. He is the father of nine children, named respectively Marcellus, Elvira, Nathaniel, Ellena, William F., Sarah E., Angeline, Mary E. and Albert. Of this number, four are deceased - Marcellus, Ellena, Angeline and Albert.

Elvira married Mr. Samuel Helvie, and is now living in this county. Nathaniel is married, and resides in Cass County. William F., Sarah E. and Mary E., are still at home with their parents.

Mr. Costenborder is a man of great energy and industry; believ¬ ing idleness a crime, he has d voted all his life to active, manual labor, and, wbile this principle has been valuable as a precept to his children, it has redounded to his own finiancial advantage. He is a man of decided opinion and great strength of character; self-reliant, open aud fearless in the expression of what he believes to be the right; a warm friend, and a zealous partitan. His political views are in conformity with the principles of the Republican party. He united with the Christian Church many years ago, and of that society he and his estimable wife are still active and consistent members. We present in this volume a fine view of the farm, residence and mill of Mr. C., accompanied with portraits of himself and wife.

The gentleman whose name appears above, was born in Bethle¬ hem, Clark County, Ohio, on the 17th day of October, 1817. At the age of 14 years, he came with his parents to Cass County, Ind., and located in the township where he now resides. He remained with his parents until 21 years of age, when he married Miss Sarah A. Patton, on the 29th day of November, 1838, and began farm¬ ing on his own account. In this branch of industry he has been very successful, and has been engaged therein many years. His mar¬ ried life has been blessed by nine children, named as follows: Eliza¬ beth, now married to Mr. Allen W. Boyer, of Tipton Township ; Nathaniel R., deceased ; Nancy A., married to John M. Hoover, Esq.; Sarah J., deceased; Stephen C., now living near the home farm ; Addis L., on home farm ; and Peter C., now living near Waverly, Ind.; Harriet C. and Jessie B., living at home.

Mr. Williams engaged in the retail boot and shoe trade in Logansport, and remained in that branch of business several years with finan¬ cial profit, but finding commercial pursuits unsuited to his taste, he disposed of bis stock and resumed farming. He then accepted a con¬ tract for grading a portion of the Wabash Railway, and performed his part in forming the great chain uniting the East and the West.

He is now in the 61st year of his age, but his vigorous constitu¬ tion has not been greatly impaired by years; and in spirit, he is still young. He is the possessor of 320 acres of valuable land in this county, the larger portion of which is finely improved and cultivated.

Joshua Shields, the father of the gentleman for whom this biog¬ raphy is prepared, was born in Knox County, Tenn. He grew to manhood in that county, and married Miss Rhoda Tipton, a native of the same county and State, and, we may add here, a sister of Gen. John Tipton, who, the citizens of Cass County are aware, was the agent appointed by Government for the Miami and Pottawatomie In¬ dians, and stationed at Logansport, and who so bravely distinguished i himself at the battle of Tippecanoe. ^ I

Joshua Shields, in the year 1808, when Indiana was an almost | unbroken wilderness, and when the savage Indian was yet master of I the forests, resolved to take leave of his native place and found a home there, where nothing but danger awaited the daring adventurer.

He crossed the Ohio River in the above mentioned year, with his faithful wife and little son. and in a short time settled in Harrison County, where he made his home for a period of twenty-one years. ' By this time (1829), that section of the State was becoming rapidly settled, and the Indians were becoming more peaceful. Mr. Shields decided to push farther north, and as a result of that move became one of the earliest pioneers of Cass County. He was with Gen. Har¬ rison when he defeated the Indians at Tippecanoe, and in this engage¬ ment received a severe wound in his arm from a musket ball.

He returned home from the field of battle to the more quiet and , congenial pursuits of fanning, at which he continued until his death, which occurred January 22, 1852. His faithful wife was not living I to mourn his loss, she having died on the 7th day of July, 1837. Previous to her demise, she selected a spot of ground where she re¬ quested them to bury her, and expressed the wish that they would make that place their burial ground. It is scarcely necessary to add that the wish of the living mother has been complied with so far as possible. Five children were born to this departed couple ; their names are John T., Nancy, Thomas, Arnet and Jane, and of this number only Arnet lives, to cherish their memory as only a son and brother can. It is he for whom we record these few remembrances of kind and affectionate parents and the brothers and sisters of his childhood ; and of him we will speak more directly hereafter.

He was born in Harrison County, Ind., January 28, 181G. In that year Indiana became a State, and true to his nativity, he has ever since remained one of her faithful citizens. In the 21st year of his age, he married Miss Jane Irvin, a native of the " Hoosier State,' born December 10, 1818. They were united in the holy bonds on the 11th day of November, 1837, and lived happily together until May 3, 1872, when death entered the family circle, and the beloved wife and mother was taken from their midst. She left to mourn her decease nine children, whose names are as follows : John T., Rhoda, Joshua, Matilda T., Robert, Isabelle, Rebecca, Edwin and George W. Of this number three are deceased: Rhoda, Joshua and Edwin. George W. and Isabelle remain at home with their father. The re¬ maining children are married and happily situated in life. John T. and Joshua both gave their services in support of the Union during the late war. The former enlisted in the Forty-sixth Indiana Volun¬ teer Infantry ; the latter enlisted in the Seventy-third Indiana, aud yielded his life on the field of battle, at Stone River, a sacrifice to his country, about two months after joining his regiment.

Mr. Arnet Shields is truly one of the veteran pioneers of Cass County. He has seen the county, year by year, gradually progress from its infancy to its present estate. He is one who has " put his shoulder to the wheel," and the dense forests have passed away, and waving fields of grain succeeded them.

He lives on the Pleasant Grove road, about one and three-quar¬ ters miles from the city of Logansport. A view of the old homestead, together with portraits of himself and wife, will be seen in this vol¬ ume. Mr. Shields is now 62 years of age, in the enjoyment of a vig¬ orous constitution, and can, at this time, follow the plow from early morn until night, with apparently as little inconvenience as in his younger days. He was a Whig during the existence of that good old party, and the organization of the Republican party he has been constantly identified with it.

The subject of this biographical sketch is the son of John Watts, who was born in Virginia in the year 1775. When quite young, John moved with his parents to Butler County, Ohio. They subse¬ quently removed to Wayne County, Indiana, where they remained until the year 1830. In that year they came to Cass County, and resided here until their death.

John Watts and Miss Rhoda Sutton were married in Butler County, Ohio, about the year 1797. In 1830, he came to Cass County and purchased the farm upon which his son, William P., now resides. He was among the earliest settlers of his township, and at the time of his arrival, little effort had been made to improve the land. He erected a temporary home, in which he resided six week" during which time, he budt a very comfortable log house. He liven an honorable and useful life, and died in the year 1844, lamented by all his neighbors. His wife died in the year 1823, and of a large family of children, only three survive; they are Israel, William P. and Rhoda, the latter living in Dakota Territory.

Israel Watts was born in Wayne County, Indiana, May 31, 1814. In 1830, he came with his parents to Cuss County, and has been one of her esteemed citizens ever since. He attended the district school, where he acquired a good ordinary education ; and out of school hours, improved his time by working on his father's farm, acquainting him¬ self with the details of that useful occupation. Throughout his life, he has been engaged in this pursuit, and by careful attention and pru¬ dent management, has accumulated a good portion of this world's goods.

He married Miss Sarah Dawson in the year 1834, and by his marriage is the the father of seven children, named as follows : Martha, John H., William D., Rhoda, Joseph J., Isaac N. and Lavina J. Of this number, tbree are deceased, viz.: Martha, Joseph J., and Lavina J. His wife died on the 10th day of May, 1856. He was again married to Miss Elizabeth Hitchens, who died on the 20th day of October, 1863. Two children (Bertram and Mabel) blessed this union - the latter deceased.

On the 14th day of June, 1864, he was a third time united in marriage - Miss Maria Sizor becoming his bride. His third wife is the daughter of John and Mary Sizor, who emigrated from Virginia to Cass County in 1830, and were among the early settlers of this county. By this marriage, Mr. Watts is the father of four children, all living. Their names are Andrew M., Sonora D., Clarence A. and Mary Philippine.

For a period of forty-eight years, he has been identified with the interests of Cass County, and, in his declining years, enjoys the con¬ fidence and respect of all who know him.

Although 64 years of age, he enjoys a vigorous constitution, and we wish him many added years of usefulness among his family and friends, ere he shall be called to " that bourne from which no traveler ever returns."

This gentleman is of southern ancestry. His grandfather, Isaiah Lewis, was a native of North Carolina, whence he removed to the State of Kentucky, at a very early day in the history of that State. He was engaged in Indian trading, and remained, thus employed, for a number of years. His son, Peter Lewis, was the father of the gentleman for whom this biography is prepared. Peter removed from Kentucky and settled in Lawrence County, Illinois, where he accepted the contract of carrying the U. S. mail on horseback, from Vincennes to St. Louis.

James A. Lewis was born in Lawrence County, Ill., November 16, 1820. Before he reached the age of 1 year, lie was left an orphan by the death of his father. His mother subsequently married Mr. John Buchanan.

After the death of his father, James was taken by his grandfather, with whom he removed to Vigo County, Ind. He remained with his grandfather, superintending the farm for him, until the death of the latter in 1836.

After his grandfather's death, James continued to operate the farm for his grandmother, until the year 1840. In that year, he married Miss Jeannette C. Tritt, who was born in West Virginia, on the 11th day of April, 1822, and moved with her parents to a point near Terre Haute, Ind., where she continued to reside until her mar¬ riage with Mr. Lewis.

One year after the date of his marriage, Mr. Lewis moved with his wife to Miami County, Ind., and located in a very wild and uncultivated region. He located his home in Pipe Creek Township, at a time when but few settlers had ventured so far. He remained there two years, when he crossed the line to Cass County, and entered land in Tipton Township, at $1.25 per acre. In the year 1865, he sold out, and moved to Vermilion Co., Ill.

Nine years later, he returned to Cass County. He decided to make this location permanent, and immediately took measures for the improvement of his farm. Since that-time, he has been prominently connected with the interests of his township and the county in gen¬ eral. His excellent wife still lives, to share his lot in life with him, aud cheer him in his daily toil.

Mr. Lewis is a wide-awake, energetic farmer, and his tastefully arranged home, and well-cultivated fields, are convincing proofs of this fact.

Jacob Hoover, the father of the gentleman for whom this biogra¬ phy is prepared, was a native of North Carolina, from which State he removed to Preble County, O., where he married Miss Catharine Knutt, a native of that county. He lived the life of a farmer, and trained his children to follow that occupation

His son, John, was born in Preble County, O., on the 18th day November, 1808. He remained at home until 21 years of age, when he married Miss Rachel Maudlin, a native of Preble County, who, at that time, was residing with her parents, in Wayne County, Ind. Five months after his marriage, he moved with his young wife to Cass County and purchased eighty acres of wild, uncultivated land. This was the first sale of land recorded in this county.

In a region very sparsely settled, he began life as a pioneer farmer in the " Ildosier State." Soon a little cabin was erected, which, for many years, was his home. By unremitting toil and careful manage¬ ment, he accumulated some means, which he applied to increasing his possessions in real estate, until he became the proprietor of nearly 800 acres of valuable land.

As a member of the Christian Church, he lived a consistent life, which closed on the 30th day of October, 1872. A residence of forty-two years in this county served to endear him to all his neighbors, and his death was lamented by a large circle of friends. The rail¬ road station near which he resided was named Hoover's Station, in honor of him.

George Fogleson, the father of the gentleman whose name appears above, was bora in the State of Maryland, in the year 1801. When 5 years of age, he moved with his parents to Montgomery County, Ohio, where lie married Miss Mary Overlesse, a native of Kentucky. One year after their marriage, they removed to Rush County, Iudiana, where they remained fourteen years. They after¬ ward removed to Cass County, where they remained until their death. Their children were: Abraham, Daniel, Levi, John, Lydia, George, Mary J., Sarah A., Rebecca, Amanda and Leonard. Of this num¬ ber, Abraham, Levi, Lydia, Mary J., Amanda and Leonard are deceased. Daniel, the second son, learned the art of farming in childhood, and has bem engaged in that occupation thoughout his life. In 1844, he married Miss Sarah J. Remley, who remained his constant companion, until the year 1873, when she was removed from the embrace of her earthly friend to the better life above. She left surviving her, a family of seven children, whose names are as follows: Mary C., John P., Mahuldah J., Sydney A., Sarah J., Martha A. and Daniel S.

On the 29th day of September, 1874, Mr. Foglesong was a second time united in marriage, Miss Sarah J. Growl becomiug his bride. Two children, Harvey and Flora, have been added to the family since this secoud marriage. Mr. Foglesong is pleasantly located on Section 2, Harrison Township, where he owns and operates a fine farm. He is industrious and honest, and is universally recognized as a worthy citi¬ zen ; and the confidence reposed in him by his fellow citizens found a forcible expression in his election to the office of County Commis¬ sioner, which position he occupied one term. He is an adherent to the principles of the Democratic party, and has always supported that ticket. He is one among those who entered this county at a time when but little effort had been made to disturb the original possessors of the soil, the savage and the wild beast. He has witnessed its growth year by year, and, as he bore his part in its early struggle against the hardships incident to a new country, he also shares and enjoys the prosperity by which this county has been characterised in later years. He has been a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, for a period of thirty-six years, during which time he has ever been a zealous supporter of the good cause.

Jonathan Grable, the father of the gentleman whose name appears above, was a native of Washington County, Penn. He was married in that county, and frum thence removed to Summit County, Ohio, where he resided until his decease. He was the father of ten chil¬ dren, all of whom are now deceased, save four - Samuel, John, Abra¬ ham and Benjamin - who now reside in this county. His son Samuel was born in Washington Couuty, Penn., in the year 1801. He improved his opportunities for acquiring an education in his younger days by regular attendance at the district school, employing his time during the Summer by assisting his father on the farm. He remained with his parents until 23 years of age, at which time he married- Miss Hannah Conrad, a native of Summit County, Ohio, in January, 1824. He continued to reside in that county until the year 1845. In that year, he came, with his wife and children, to Cass County. Three months after his arrival, he purchased the site of his present home, which then consisted of forty acres of land. To his origiual purchase he has added, from time to time, and now possesses 320 acres of valuable land. He is the father of nine children, named as follows: David, Catharine, Bucyrus, Jonathan, Salome, Phoebe Ann, John H., Mary F. and Samuel Mac, all of whom are now living in this county, except John H., who lost his life in the service of his oountry, during the late civil war, at the battle of Lookout Mountain, Tenn.

During a long and useful life, he has been an energetic worker; and in his declining years, although he has retired from active labor, he still takes daily exercise in the woods, hunting such game as may be found.

On the 6th day of October, 1876, he was called upon to part with the faithful wife, who, through many years, had been his con¬ stant companion and help-mate. He is a survivor of the pioneer community of this country, and, during his residence here, has proven himself worthy of the confidence aud esteem reposed in him by all who know him.

David H. Conrad was born in Washington County, Penn., May 9, 1800. His parents, John and Hannah Conrad, were natives of the same county, and resided there until the date of their decease. They were the parents of nine children, named respectively Henry, William, John, Catharine, David H., Daniel, Hannah, Phoebe and Joshua; the latter died at the age of two years.

David remained with his parents until 23 years of age. In Octo¬ ber, 1823, he married Miss Mary Custer, a native of Washington County, Penn. Seven children crowned the happiness of this mar¬ riage. Their names were Ella, Andrew, Samuel, Hannah, Stephen, George, John H. and Mary A.

In October, 1845, Mr. Conrad met with a sad bereavement in the death of his wife. Four years later (November 14, 1849), be married Mrs. Catharine Garver, daughter of Peter Onslott, Esq., a citizen of Miami County, Indiana. One daughter, Mariah, has been added to the family since this union. During his residence in Wash¬ ington County, Penn., Mr. Conrad was engaged in purchasing cattle, and driving them overland to the Eastern markets. This enterprise proved to be a financial advantage to him, and he continued to follow it until the year 1840, at which time'he came to this county, and located on the farm where he now resides.

Although possessed of only a common school education, he has gained much by travel and experience. This, aided by his natur.il keen perception, makes him the possessor of a rich store of knowledge.

He was a member of the military company which escorted the Marquis de Lafayette into the city of Washington on the occasion of his visit to America.

He also witnessed the funeral obsequies of Presidents Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, in the city of Baltimore. He was greatly impressed by the occasion, and pronounces it one of the memorable events of his life.

It was also his privilege to witness the laying of the first stone for the first railroad in the United States, near the city of Baltimore. To Gen. Carroll (last survivor of the signers of the Declaration of Inde¬ pendence) was awarded the honor of placing the stone in position. The occasion was attended with much ceremony, and pertinent addresses were made by prominent citizens of Baltimore and other cities. Cheer after cheer arose from the assembled multitude, in view of this founda¬ tion for the great railroad system, which now spans the continent from sea to sea, and which has so materially aided the development of the boundless resources of our country. Mr. Conrad accompanied the first excursion over this road. The route was from Baltimore to Ellicott's Mills, a distance of ten miles. Every car was crowded to its utmost capacity; but' the motive power was not the mighty agent, steam , which now propels our railway coaches from city to city with almost lightning speed, but was furnished by horses attached to the cars. It was a new experience, a new mode of travel, and the crudity of the affair was overlooked, or unknown by those who participated therein ; for to them it heralded a new era in the economy of the country.

To Mr. Conrad was awarded the honor of commanding a battilion of " Jackson Reserve " volunteers, who escorted Gen. Jackson through Washington County, Penn., while en route from home, after the expiration of his second Presidential term. He was commissioned by

Gov. Wolfe of Pennsylvania, to act as Major of the battalion in Washington County, and in that capacity, acted for a term of seven years. He was an ardent admirer and supporter of Gen. Jackson, and has always supported the principles advocated by him.

He is one of Cass County's early pioneers, and for many years has been permanently associated with its interests. He is a liberal, benevolent man, and a good neighbor, and, in his declining years, en¬ joys the love and confidence of all who know him.

Wm. Jameson was born in Wayne County, Ohio, February 13, 1817. His father John Jamison, was a native of Washington County, Pennsylvania. He married Miss Amy Tilton, a native of the same county, and from thence removed to Wayne County, Ohio, where he remained until 1852. In that year he came with his family to Cass County, where he purchased a farm, upon which he and wife resided until theirdeath. Their son William received his early education in his native State, Ohio, and in that State took his first lessons in the science of agriculture. He learned to follow the plow at a very early age, and throughout his life has been constantly engaged in the occu¬ pation followed by his father, the ever honorable pursuit of farming. On the 31st day of October, 1838, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Ewry, who was born in Washington County, Pennsylvania, May 22, 1820. She subsequently removed with her parents to Rich¬ land County, Ohio, where her marriage with Mr. Jamison took place.

In the year 1852, Mr. Jamison came, with his wife and children, to Cass County and located upon the farm where he now resides. Eight children have blessed their married life; their names are John, Thomas, Elmer, Milton, Jane, Martin, Alice and Harry. Of this number three are deceased - John, Elmer and Milton. During the war of the rebellion, John and Thomas responded to their country's call for volunteers, and served nobly until the close of the war. The former entered Ann Arbor College, at Ann Arbor, Michigan, after his return from the war, but died before the end of the course, with his life work unfinished. The surviving children are all married, except Harry, who remains at home to assist his father in the per¬ formance of his farm duties and lighten his burden in his declining years.

At the age of 60 years we find Mr. Jamison in the full posses¬ sion of all his faculties, and in the enjoyment of a vigorous constitu¬ tion.

He has never been prominent in the political arena, but is a quiet supporter of the principles advocated by tho Republican party. He cast his first vote for William Henry Harrison, and has supported that branch of the body politic, ever since.

He owns and operates a fine farm, located on Section 25, Harrison Township, with the latest improved implements for the sucoessful prosecution of his lifelong occupation. We are pleased to present our readers with a view of his residence, in this volume.

Benjamin Porter, the son of Robert and Margaret Porter, was born in Bath County, Va., on the 15th day of November, 1812. He is the fifth child in a family of twelve. In the Fall of 1815, his father emigrated with his family to Fayette County, Ind., where he rented a farm, which he conducted for five years. He then moved to Rush County, Ind., and entered eighty acres of land, upon which he resided until his death, which occurred in June, 1845.

Benjamin resided with his parents until 13 years of age. At that time he went to reside with bis aunt in Warren County, Ohio. He remained there four years and then returned to his home in Rush County, Ind. In the Spring of 1831, he removed to Cass County, and purchased the farm upon which he now resides. The process of clearing then began, and through all the privations and hardships of pioneer life he kept a brave heart, and with untiring energy toiled on day after day, often working late into the night in his efforts to make a clearing and found a home. He built a hewed log house, which was then a matter of pride to himself and the neighbors, as it was the best house in the neighborhood, and far superior to the ordinary pioneer dwelling. Surrounded by the Indians, who were generally peaceable, he began life as a pioneer farmer. Five years after his arrival (February, 1836), he was united in marriage with Miss Cla¬ rissa Justice. This union was blessed by eight children, named as follows: Nancy, bom December 27,1836; Rosanna, January 16,

During the existence of the Whig party, Mr. Porter acted and voted with them, and upon the organization of the Republiean party he adopted that oode of principles, and has since acted with that party. He has been an active member and zealous supporter of the Christian Church since 1840; and his estimable wife has been a member of that denomination for a still longer period, having united with the church previous to her marriage.

Mr. Porter is pleasantly located on the farm in Clinton Township where he first settled, and which he cleared by his own labors. His farm is well improved and cultivated, and is one of the finest in this county.

With the exception of one daughter, who is married and living in Minnesota, he is still blessed with the society of all his children, form¬ ing an almost unbroken family circle. Long may he live to enjoy his well-earned reputation, and the fruits of the labors of his long and industrious life - an example worthy of imitation.

CAPT. JOHN SHAFER, Clinton Township, was bom in Butler County, Ohio, December 13, 1833, to Peter and Catherine Shafer, farmers. In 1836, when the subject of this sketch was but 3 years of age, Peter, with his family, removed to Auglaize County, same State, where he continued his former pursuit of farm¬ ing, in which business young John was early trained, under the watchful care of his father, until 1841, when his father was removed by death, leaving John, at the early age of 8 years, without the care and counsel of ihther. John continued to render what assistance he could at that early age upon the farm uqtil 1858, when he bid fare¬ well to home, mother and friends, to seek a home farther west, locat¬ ing in Cass County, Ind. Here, also, he continued the pursuit of agriculture until the Fall of 1861, when the drum and fife (whose music is still familiar to his ear) was heard throughout the North, calling the friends of the Federal Union to organize and rally in her defense.

The loyal sons of Indiana responded nobly to that call, and early took steps to that music for the Union, among whom John Shafer was found upon the muster roll of Company F, Forty-sixth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, that served in the Western army under Gen. Grant, during his campaign on the Mississippi; and after nearly three years of active service, his regiment (the Forty-sixth) re-enlisted at New Orleans and immediately embarked across the Gulf of Mex¬ ico and landed on Texas soil, where his regiment remained three months, after which time they re-embarked for New Orleans, where they joined that memorable Red River expedition, under Geu. N. P. Banks, where his regiment, in common with that part of the Federal army, suffered extreme hardships and endurance. At the battle of Mansfield, he (Shafer), with many others, was taken prisoner and confined at Fort Tyler, Texas, where he remained 414 days, during which time the prisoners' daily rations consisted of one pint of corn meal or about the same amount of parched whole corn alternately, with no other shelter than an excavation in the earth and no other covering but the broad canopy of heaven. That prison embraced about four acres of land, inclosed by a stockade, and contained, at that time, about 4,000 prisoners. Mr. Shafer, in common with all Union soldiers who were so unfortunate as to become prisoners of war to the rebels, suffered severely from exposure, from cold, from hunger and from sickness, and relates thrilling narratives of escape from prison, of laborious efforts to reach the Federal lines and of the great kindness received at the hands of their only friends in that country - the negroes - who not only cared for and fed them to the extent of their limited means, but never, in a single instance, betrayed a Union soldier.

Mr. Shafer suffered from sickness while in prison and hospital to such an extent that his unusually strong constitution became visibly impaired; and while yet in hospital, in the Summer of 1865 - the war being over and the stars and stripes once more peacefully floating in all the States of the American Union, the prisoners all set at lib¬ erty - John Shafer joined his regiment at Louisville, Ky., where he found a Captain's commission awaiting him, having been, from time to time, promoted from the ranks to the rank of Captain.

In due time, his regiment was mustered out of the military service, and Capt. Shafer, once more a private citizen, returned to Clinton Township, Cass Co., Ind., aud engaged again in the peaceful and honorable occupation of farming.

I Capt. Shafer married the widowed daughter of John and Ann Myers, Mrs. Mary Kinsey, January 25, 1866, and settled upon the farm of 186 acres, where he now resides, adding improvements which, to-day, constitutes it one of the pleasantest homes in Cass County, Ind. (a view of which may be seen in this historic work), surrounded by an interesting young family of four children by his marriage, together with a son of his wife by her former husband, all of whom were born in the following named order: Lee W. Kinsey, born March 29, 1858; Anna C. .Shafer, born April 18, 1867; Alice M., born June 17, 1869; Eva L., born June 6, 1872, and John Q , born Sept. 27, 1874.

Capt. John Shafer is now 45 years of age, and, with the exception of the visible effects of exposure and endurance in army life, is remark¬ ably well preserved, and enjoys a happy home and family, as well as | the esteem and confidence of his fellow men.

May he live the full allotted time to man - " three score years and ten " - and enjoy the respect due a faithful soldier and an honorable ! citizen.

R. E. Dean was born in Monroe County, Michigan, on the 5th day of June, 1833. His parents emigrated to that county from Ontario County, New York, in the year 1832, and were among the early pioneers of that State (then a Territory). The subject of our sketch remained with his parents until nearly 17 years of age,

He engaged his services to a fanner, and, by this means, obtained j the necessary funds to assist him in his travels. He came to ; Indiana, and located, temporarily, in Carroll County, where he mar¬ ried Miss Rosila L. Hulce, on the 13th day of October, 1853. This union was blessed by three children, named respectively William W., K. Robert and Harriet A., all of whom are still living at home. Soon after Ills marriage, he removed to Toledo, Ohio, where he remained until 1865. In that year, he returned to Indiana, and located in Cass County. He purchased the farm he now occupies, and improved it by the erection of a new and commodious residence, with a fine barn and convenient out buildings, making it one of the finest farms in the county. In addition to this, he owns another farm one mile south of his home. He is a gentleman well known and universally respected throughout the county. Politically he is a supporter of the Democratic party, though he has never figured as a politician and is not a bigoted partisan.

He is an active member of the Masonic Fraternity ; is thoroughly conversant with the details of the science of agriculture, and, by close attention thereto, has earned the reputation of being one of the most successful farmers of Cass County. By paitent toil and economy, he has accumulated a competence in worldly effects and enjoys the pros¬ perity acquired by years of industry.

The subject of this sketch was born in Madison Township, Mont¬ gomery County, Ohio, on the 20th day of March, 1821, and is the ninth child in a family of twelve. Hia father was a native of South Carolina, whence he removed to Ohio, and was among the early set¬ tlers of Montgomery County.

At the age of 15, Abraham entered upon an apprenticeship in the carpenter's trade, and was thus engaged for a period of three years. At the end of that time, being considered a competent mechanic, he launched his bark on the sea of life, determined to make his own way. He worked at his trade, in connection with some milling operations, for a period of ten years. In August, 1846, he married Miss Annie Garver, whose untimely death he was called to lament, in January, 1847. This union was blessed by one child, Annie, who is now the wife of Charles H. Granger, Esq., of Sullivan County, Iudiana.

Two years after the death of his wife, Mr. Hyre was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Emerick. By this marriage he is the father of eleven children, named respectively William, Mary, Silas M., Saul, Sarah, John A., Lydia E., Martha J., Harriet S., Minnie E. and Joseph. Of this number, five are deceased, as follows: William Mary, Lydia E., Martha J. and Joseph. Saul is still living at home; the remaining children are married and happily settled in life.

Mr. Hyre is one of the early settlers of Cass County, and has been associated with its interests many years. He has added several tracts of land to his original purchase, from time to time, and is now the proprietor of 240 acres of valuable land in this county, the larger i portion of which is finely improved and cultivated.

This gentleman was born in Lebanon, Warren County, Ohio, Jan¬ uary 1, 1816. He learned the carpenter's trade, aud, at the age of 19, left home in company with his brother, to make his living at that trade. He worked in Piqua, Ohio, one year, and from that place went to Lockland, Ohio, where he continued to work at his trade.