Clinton County, Indiana - Biographical sketches, 1913 (part 6 of 17)

Mr. Harding belongs to the Improved Order of Red Men at Kirklin, and also is affiliated with the Masonic order. He is a loyal member of the Presbvterian church and is one of their strongest supporters. Politicallv, he believes in the principles of the Democratic party.

Moxroe C. Shaw

Monroe C. Shaw was born in Clinton county, July 2 2. 1872, and died September 24. 1911. Hi'' life occupation was that of a farmer, his homestead consisting of ninety-five acre'-, all tillable except ten acres of woodland. A feature of the Shaw farm is that all its improvements were built by the owner. Besides tilling the soil, Mr. Shaw made of his place one of the finest stock farms in the state. Here lie raised principally Shorthorn cattle, fine breeds of hogs and general purpose horses. His reputation as a stock raiser was not confined to Indiana, but extended throughout Ohio and Illinois. The Shaw farm is one of the well known and attractive centers of Clinton county, people going there from near and far for the purchase of blooded horses, cattle and hogs. It has contributed very largely to the fame of Clinton county and the state of Indiana as suitable regions for raising stock of the first quality.

The subject of this sketch was the son of James C. and Margaret (Fritz) Shaw. His father was born near Rockford, Surry County, N. C., Jan. 31, 1828, and died at his home near Russiaville, Ind., April 8, 1901, aged 72 years. I he mother of Mr. Shaw was born near Westmoreland. Somerset County, Pa., Aug. 12, 1838, and died near Russiaville, Ind., in March. 1906. She was a devoted wife and mother and active member of the Baptist church. She was united in marriage October 10, 1865. to James C. Shaw, who was then at home after three years' service in the civil war. This was Mr. Shaw s second marriage. To him and his first wife were born five children, as follows: William, John, Joseph. James and Catherine, and the children

March 8, 1896, Monroe C. Shaw married Rosa Id. Bryan, who was born in Warsaw, Indiana. June 20. 1873. the daughter of James and Barbara (Breeding) Bryan. To them have been born three children, two of whom are living: Irene V., born December 1. 1896. and Beulah Lorea, born December 25, 1907. Mrs. Shaw's father was a farmer and served in the 47th Ohio Infantry one year. She is the voungest of a familv of six children, five of whom are living-. The names of the others are Perry J., Lester J., Acv A., James and Catherine (dec.) Her mother was born in Virginia January 1, 1838. and died July 16. 1901.

Monroe C. Shaw affiliated with the Baptist church and wTas a Republican in politics. It may be truly said of him that he lived and died in the realization of the Christian faith that lifts men above the friction of life and provides them a sphere of congenial and happy activity. In politics Mr. Shaw was no less ardent and active than in the discharge of his religious duties. To him the Republican party was something of an idealism, and he referred to its achievements in the cause of constitutional government and the lilrertv of the people with the utmost reverence and enthusiasm. Fidelity was a very marked trait w ith him. He was a true man in all the relations of life.

Bert Kern

The life history of the subject of this sketch is such as to warrant praise and commendation. By honest dealings and hearty co-operation with his fellow men Air. Kern has guaranteed a comfortable living to himself the rest of his davs on earth. The man is indeed fortunate who has done so. Besides his interests in agriculture, Mr. Kern has been versatile enough to make a success of other vocations, at present being connected with one of the largest interurban systems in the United States.

Bert Kern was born in Jackson township, Clinton county, on December 28, 1867, and was the son of A. D. and Sarah (Young) Kern. The father was born in the year 1840 in Boone county and lives in Clinton county with our subject. During his life he was a farmer and breeder of shorthorn cattle. He still is active in the interests of the farm. The mother was born in Clinton county in 1843, an(J s^e passed from this life on February 18, 1910. Both parents had a common school education. Four children were born to them: Edward (deceased), D. S., Bert and Charles.

Bert Kern received a common school education nad made his early start on the farm. Until 1903 agriculture was the field of his endeavors, and then he went to work for the Indiana Traction Railway, holding the position of sub-station operator. He was later promoted to sub-station foreman, and as such he still is making good. He owns twenty-six acres of fertile and well tiled land here in this county, and besides general farming thereon he is raising Chester W hite hogs. The home on the estate was built by our subject.

On October 27. 1888, he was married to Minnie B. Davidson, who was born December 12. 1870, the daughter of W illiam and Lucinda (Price) Davidson. One child has been born to them, Alta B., born January 3, 1890. She married Carl Hutchinson, and they live near our subject.

Religiously, Mr. Kern is a member of the Christian church, and in political affairs is a Democrat. Although he has never run for office he takes as much part in political activities as his other duties, which he considers paramount, will allow.

William S. Ridxour

Success has come to William S. Ridnour. undertaker and funeral director, of the village of Forest. Clinton county, liecause he has worked for it along legitimate and w-ell established lines, and at the same time has dealt honestlv and conscientiously w ith his fellow men. He has always manifested an abiding interest in the general welfare of this community and his support could alwavs be depended upon in furthering any laudable undertaking for the public weal. He. therefore, enjoys the good w ill and respect of a wide acquaintance.

Mr. Ridnour was born May 3. 1872, in Russiaville, Howard county. Indiana. He is a son of Adam and Sarah (Wilson) Ridnour. The father was born Tulv 5. 1846, in Tennessee, and there he grew to manhood, working hard when a boy to get a start in the world. He remained in his native locality until after his marriage, when he removed to Indiana, locating the future home of the family in Howard county. His death occurred on September 17, 1 9 1 1 . The mother of our subject was born in Knox county, Tennessee, May 18. 1844, and her death occurred on October 19, 1911. Adam Ridnour devoted his life to general farming and stock raising and to the buying and selling of live stock, making that a business for many years. He raised Hereford and shorthorn cattle, Poland-China hogs and later Chester White hogs, and a great many mules. Politically, he was a Republican. He enlisted for service in the Civil war when only fifteen years of age, in 1862, in a Tennessee regiment, and served three years as gallantly as the older veterans of the army.

Six children were born to Adam Ridnour, four of whom are still living, namely: Mrs. Emma Jordan, Mrs. Della Fitzer. William S., of this sketch,

William S. Ridnour received a common school education in the schools of Howard county. Indiana, and during the summer months he worked on his father's farm. On April 7. 1895. he married Alona Blair, a native of Decatur county, Indiana, the date of her birth being May 4. 1876. She is a daughter of Leonard B. and Elizabeth fParkeson) Blair, both natives of Decatur county and both now deceased, the mother passing away when Mrs. Ridnour was young. Mr. Blair engaged in farming all his life. Mrs. Ridnour grew to womanhood in her native localitv and received a common school education.

March, 1898; Arthur W.. born December 15, 1898, died November, 1911 having been killed by a playmate with a rifle: Adam Omar, born February 21, 1904, now in school.

Mr. Ridnour moved to Clinton county in February, 1906, to make his permanent home, but has traveled for four years, sightseeing, first in the northern states and Canada, and later in Iowa, the Middle West, and other sections. He lived on a farm in Clinton countv thirteen years all told, and he still owns a valuable farm of one hundred and twenty acres, all tillable but about five acres. It is well improved in every respect and has a good set of buildings. He keeps his place rented. AVhile engaged in general farming he raised black cattle and shorthorns, the O. I. C. hogs and draft horses. He moved to the town of Forest in January, 1912. and went into the furniture and undertaking business, in partnership with a Mr. Lowery, under the firm name of Lowery & Company. He bought out his partner in July, 1912, and is now engaged in the furniture business alone .although he has a partner in the undertaking business, W. L. Stout, the firm being Ridnour & Stout. He has built up a growing business in both lines of endeavor, keeping a large and carefully selected stock of furniture and is well equipped as an undertaker. He lives in a pleasant home in Forest.

Mr. Ridnour is a Republican in politics, and fraternally he belongs to the Knights of Pythias at Forest. He made the race for sheriff of Clinton county in 1910. but was defeated. He belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church.

George A. Auble, Jr

Not everyone is capable of making a successful newspaper man. It is true that thousands of young men just out of school take up the work because it requires no special college course to get ready and all the implements necessary are a sharpened pencil and a pad of note paper; but these same thousands soon drop out and turn their attention to something else. Why? Not because the work is not fascinating or remunerative, but because a successful journalist is. in a measure, like the poet, born - especially gifted bv nature. That doe? not mean that he is wiser than the average professional man, that he is a seer, a philosopher or genius, but that he has a peculiar fitness for this line of human endeavor. One of the men in Clinton county who was undoubtedly marked by mother nature for this vocation is George A. Auble, Jr.. editor and publisher of the Forest Weekly Nesvs. one of the influential newspapers of this locality.

Mr. Auble was born March 5. 1889. near Las Vegas, New Mexico, and is therefore yet only a young man. but nevertheless a successful newspaper publisher. Fie is a son of George A. and Emma S. (Nettinger) Auble. The father was born October 9, 1864. in Indianapolis, Indiana, and the mother March 29. 1865. at Geneseo, Illinois. She is a graduate of Ottawa, Illinois, high school, class of 1885. The father has been a successful implement dealer for nearly twenty years, and he was engaged in railroading for a period of seven years in the West. His family consisted of ten children; George A., Jr., Robert N.. Ruth (deceased), Frank H.. Sydney. Mary (deceased), Woodard, Muriel, Fred and Mildred.

removed with his parents to Forest. Clinton county, where he attended school, being grdauated from the common schools here in 1904, and from the high school in 1907. He attended Frankfort high school two years, being graduated from that institution in 1909, after which he attended the University of Indiana at Bloomington for a while.

Mr. Auble was married on December 24, 1910, to Grace Robinson, who was born in Geetingsville, Clinton county, April 11. 1891. She was a daughter of William A. and Dean ('Beck') Robinson, an excellent old family of this locality, where they have spent their lives on a farm. Mrs. Auble was educated in the common schools of her community and at the high school in Frankfort. She was called to her eternal rest on December 18. 1011. without issue. She was a young lady of many winning characteristics, and a favorite in her home community.

After leaving school Mr. Auble engaged in the implement business for some time in Forest with his father. Later he purchased the Forest Weekly News, of which he has since been editor and publisher. He has also been successfully engaged as an electrical contractor for some time, being a skilled electrician. He has made his paper a bright and newsy sheet, which goes into many homes in this vicinity. Its subscription list is constantlv growing and from a mechanical standpoint it is all that could be desired and ranks well with the weekly papers of the state.

Politically. Mr. Auble is independent, and fraternally he belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Forest, also the Modern Woodmen here. He is a member of the Baptist church, being superintendent of the Sunday school and is an earnest and influential worker in the church.

William H. Kesterson

One of Clinton county's most substantial and highly respected farmers is William H. Kesterson, now living retired at his picturesque home in Jefferson township, after a long life of close work and excellent management on the farm, his place there being one of the choice and valuable farms of that section of the county. His residence of a score of years here has been such as to bring to him the good will and esteem of his neighbors, for he has not only been industrious but public spirited and honorable in his dealings with his fellow men. His record in Tippecanoe county, where he lived for some time, is equally good. Prior to that he lived in Hamilton county, where he was born on January 7, 1846, but left there when a boy for Tippecanoe county, where he remained until about twenty years ago. He also lived in Iowa a few years when a boy, also in Illinois.

Mr. Kesterson is a son of Thomas and Susan (Norwood) Kesterson. The father was a native of Tennessee, from which state he came to Hamilton county, Indiana, when a young man and there married. The mother of our subject was born in Hamilton county, this state. These parents spent their lives on a farm, and were honest, hard working people. Six children were born to them, four of whom are still living. Thomas Kesterson was twice married. His children were named Mary E., who is now deceased; Spicy M., George. William H., our subject; Lousina (deceased), and Delphina.

William H. Kesterson grew to manhood on the home farm and he received a good common school education, mostly in Tippecanoe county and partly in Iowa, where he lived for four years. At Lafayette, in the fall of 1864, he enlisted as a recruit in the Seventy-second Indiana Volunteer Infantry, Company E. mounted infantry, under Captain Mahon, and although he saw considerable service he was in no very important engagements. He was with the troops in Alabama and Georgia, going as far as the citv of Macon.

Mr. Kesterson was married on November 12. 1858. to Lillian Douglas, who was born on October 9. 1858. in Clinton county, Indiana. She is a daughter of Morland and Jane (Craig) Douglas, both natives of Ireland, where they spent their earlier years, emigrating to America in an early day and here became well established through their industry. Mrs. Kesterson grew to womanhood in Clinton county and here received a common school education.

Seven children have been born to our subject and wife, namely: Thomas, born November 23, 1869; Van. born January 31, 1871, (deceased) ; Anna J., born June 27, 1872; Frank, born December 1. 1874; Mattie, born March 6, 1878: George S., born February 6. t88o; Herman, born March 28, 1882.

Mr. Kesterson began farming when a young man and made this his life work. He owned a finely improved and productive place of three hnudred and twenty-four acres, all tillable but about twenty acres, which is in timber. Tt is well tiled and otherwise well improved and is one of the best farms of Tackson township. He carried on general farming on a large scale, and is still engaged somewhat in stock raising, formerly specializing in shorthorn cattle, and now he makes a specialty of Red Poll cows, Jersev hogs, Shire and Clydesdale horses. He understands well the handling of all kinds of live

He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, is a Progressive in politics, leaning to the Republican party, however. Religiously, he belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church.

Our subject's son, George S. Kesterson, enlisted for service in the Spanish-American war on September 1 8, 1899, at Frankfort in Company A, Thirty-eighth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, under Captain William H. Collier. He was sent to St. Louis, where the company remained until October 20th of that year, then went by rail to San Francisco, leaving that city in November on a transport to Philippine Islands, by way of Honolulu, landing in the city of Manila in December, 1899. From there the company was sent to Datangus, where it did guard duty, having a few skirmishes and remaining there until 1900. Then they were sent to Iloilo, remaining there until 1901 on guard duty, and having several skirmishes. These troops were then ordered to San Francisco and were mustered out on Tune 30. 1901, in that city. Young Kesterson's experiences abroad were of much value to him and he talks interestingly of them.

David L. Mabbitt

Some people forget that a worn soil is a hungry soil - a soil whose breathing is difficult because its organic matter is exhausted, and whose natural mineral elements of plant food have been depleted by constant cropping - a soil that does not furnish a suitable home for the manufacturing bacteria - a soil that constantly pleads through its stunted, scrawny, halfnourished plant growth, for material with which to satisfy its hunger. One hundred bushels per acre crops are never grown on such soil, and a resort to stimulants in the form of so-called "complete fertilizers" only hasten land ruin. One of the progressive farmers of Jackson township, Clinton county, who has long understood fully the above facts and who has thus avoided wearing out his soil and has kept it as strong as when it was in its virgin state by proper rotation of crops, the application of proper natural and artificial fertilizer and other well established methods is David L. Mabbitt, who is at present trustee of his township.

Mr. Mabbitt was born on May 21, 1862, in Owen township, this county. He is a son of W. L. and Catherine (Long) Mabbitt. The father was born on April 8, 1829, in Union county, Indiana, and his death occurred on De- cember 13, 191 1. The mother was born on October 10, 1832, in Butler county, Ohio, and she was three years old when her parents brought her to Clinton county in 1835, being thus among the first settlers here. William Mabbitt, paternal grandfather of our subject, was born in Maryland in 1793, from which state he removed to North Carolina and from there to Union county, Indiana, in 1815. His death occurred in 1875 in Clinton county on the old Mabbitt homestead. He was a fine type of the rugged, honest pioneer. He came to Indiana on horseback and entered land from the government when this country was still a territory. Grandfather Long was born in 1792, and Grandmother Long was born in Virginia in 1806.

W. L. Mabbitt, father of our subject, was reared under pioneer conditions and helped develop the home farm from the wilderness. He attended school only one month, but could read and write, and was a self-made man. He followed farming all his life. He was a Democrat in politics, but was never a candidate for office. He joined the Masonic Order in 1850, being a charter member of Middle Fork and Wild Cat lodges. His family consisted of nine children, only two of whom are now living. These were: Mrs. Martha Brown (dec.), Warren (dec.), George W., killed by lightning; Eliza (dec.), Mrs. Lucinda Plott and David L., of this review, the only two living at this writing; Mrs. Emma Bronson (dec.), Charles and Frank also deceased.

David L. Mabbitt grew to manhood on the home farm where he worked during crop seasons. He had excellent educational advantages, having attended the common schools in his home community and, later, Purdue University at Lafayette, Ind. After leaving school he engaged in the milling business for several years in Sedalia, this county, and built up a good trade, later trading his mill for a farm in Jackson township in 1890. Thither he moved soon after, and here he has continued to reside to the present time with the exception of one year spent in Frankfort and two years in Sedalia. He has been very successful as a general farmer, paying special attention to stock feeding, ranking among the leading feeders in the county for many years, preparing annually large numbers of cattle and hogs for the market. He owns one hundred and seventy-three acres of valuable and well improved land, all tillable but about thirty acres, which is in woods. The place is well tiled and on it stand an excellent set of buildings. These improvements were made by Mr. Mabbitt himself. He has one of the most attractive rural homes in the county. He raises Jersey cows. Poland-China and mixed breeds of hogs; horses, mostly Norman and Percheron, and Plymouth Rock chickens.

William B. and Nancy (Tinkle) Wilson. Mrs. Mabbitt's Grandfather Wilson came to Clinton county in an early day. Her father, who is still living, has always been a carpenter. He is a native of this county.

Mr. and Mrs. Wilson were the parents of four children: George, Joseph, Dora and Laura A., wife of our subject. Mrs. Wilson was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Wilson belonged to the I. O. O. F. and the Red Men. He has been a justice of the peace, and in politics is a Democrat.

The union of our subject and wife has resulted in the birth of four children: Catherine A., born September 14, 1887, married Earl Jackson. They live on a farm in Jackson township, and have two children, Edward and Louis D. Louis D., our subject's second child, was born on July 25, 1890, and in October, 1912, he married Catherine Tapkin. They live on the farm with our subject. Claude M. was born February 8, 1893, and died December 27, 1903; Ethel M., the youngest of the family, was born on September 2, 1898, and is now attending school.

Fraternally Mr. Mabbitt is a member of the Masonic Order, Frankfort Lodge, No. 54, also the Improved Order of Red Men, Woodmen of the World, and the Modern Woodmen, all of Frankfort. He is a member of the United Brethren church, and politically he is a Democrat, and has long been more or less active in local party affairs. He was appointed to the office of trustee of Jackson township in January. T9T3. and is discharging the duties of this office in a highly satisfactory manner to the people.

The name of Dr. Edward F. Suhre certainly needs no introduction by the biographer to the people of Forest township and Clinton county, where he has proven himself to be a leading citizen in every respect as well as one of the successful and trustworthy physicians of this section of the Hosier state. Considering the excellent family from which he sprang and the earnest methodical methods which he has ever followed in his chief life work neither Dr. Suhre was born on February 23, 1869, in Indianapolis, Indiana. He is a son of Henry C. and Margaret (Menden) Suhre. The father was born in Germany in the year 1848, but the major part of his life has been spent in the United States, whither he was brought by his parents when eight years old. The family located in Indianapolis and there he grew to manhood and received his education. They first settled in Cincinnati, Ohio, later moving to Hendricks county, this state, and finally to Indianapolis, where their permanent home was established and where Henry C. Suhre is still residing. He received a farily good education, partly in German. He learned the carpenter's trade when a boy and this has continued to be his life work, or, more properly, contracting, for during the past forty years he has been engaged successfully in building, being now in partnership with his son, Frank H. He is regarded as a very skilled and honorable workman and a far-sighted business man of honorable principles.

The doctor's mother was also a native of Germany and was brought to America by her parents when three years old. Her parents died when she was four years old. She is still living, having proved to be a faithful mother and helpmeet.

Of the union of Henry C. Suhre and wife eight children were born: Dr. Edward \Y.. our subject: Frank H., Gertrude, Anna, Edith. Arthur; Walter (deceased), and one who died in infancy.

Dr. Suhre grew to manhood in Indianapolis and there received a good literary education in the common and high schools. Early in life he decided upon a medical career and with this end in view he attended the Indiana Medical College, in his native city for a period of four years, later attending the Central College of Physicians and Surgeons, where he made an excellent record and from which institution he was graduated wdth the class of 1897. Seeking a location he. later in the year of his graduation, came to Forest township, Clinton county, where he has since remained successfully engaged in the general practice, having built up a lucrative and ever growing patronage. He has been verv successful and has kept fully abreast of the times in everv rsepect. being always a student, notwithstanding the fact that he is a very busy man.

Dr. Suhre was married in April. 1896. to Gertrude Isaacs, who was born in Indianapolis in the year 1869. where she greur to womanhood and received her education. She was a daughter of Alfred and Sarah (Webb) Isaacs, the father a native of Kentucky.

The death of Dr. Suhre's wife occurred on Januarv 18. 1901. She was a lady of many estimable characteristics and a favorite with a wide circle of friends. The union of the doctor and wife was w ithout issue.

Politically. Dr. Suhre votes independently. Fraternally, he belongs to the Masonic Order at Forest and the Commandery at Frankfort: also to the Knights of Pythias and the Improved Order of Red Men.

Bert Strong

The subject of this review has spent practically all of his life in Clinton county, and has ever commanded the esteem and confidence of the people with whom he has been associated. His name has been prominently identified with the agricultural interests, as well as with divers other enterprises which he has been interested in and played a conspicuous part. Mr. Strong is just in the prime of life, and the accomplishments of the past are but a promise for larger and better ones in the future.

Bert Strong came into this world on October 26, 1871, in Benton county, Iowa, and was brought by his parents to Clinton county, this state, when he was one year old. He was the son of William and Margaret (Schooley) Strong. William Strong was born January 15, 1832, in Boone county, Indiana, moved to Iowa after his marriage, lived there about three years, then moved to Prairie Center, Clinton county, locating on a farm, where he lived until his death, on March 4, 1876. He was a farmer and a Democrat. The mother was born June 8, 1829, in the state of Delaware, and came to Boone county when she was twelve years old. She is still living. Both parents had a good common school education. Eight children were born to them, namely: James W., Mary A., Tirzah (deceased) ; John K., Allen, Lewis, Libbie Gold and Bert.

Bert Strong received his early education in Perry township, graduating from the eighth grade. Since then he has farmed practically all the time, with the exception of three years, when he lived in Frankfort and ran a livery and feed barn in partnership with his brother. In 1895 he moved to the farm. In March, 1909, our subject sold the farm, which consisted of ninetyone acres. He then purchased an estate comprising fifty-two acres, all tillable, well tiled, fenced and with the latest improvements, which he sold in October, 1913. Mr. Strong is at present carrying on general farming, also raises Jersey cows, Poland China hogs and Shire horses.

Mr. Strong has been married twice; the first time on October 25, 1895, to Anna Boyer, who was born in Tipton county. Indiana, in 1874, and died November 20, 1906. She was the daughter of Jacob Boyer. Three children were born to this first union, namely : Almeda, William Floyd and Helen G.

Mr. Strong's second marriage was to Artie E. Rude on April 17', 1908. She was born in Clinton county August 1, 1887, ar>d was the daughter of Richard and Mary A. Rude, natives of this state, and both now being de-

Fraternally, Mr. Strong is a member of the Improved Order of Red Men at Michigantown, and the Fraternal Order of Eagles at Frankfort. Religiously, he is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church near Cyclone. Politically, he is a Democrat. He was a member of the advisory board of Michigan township, and was overseer of the new school house for about six months.

Jonathan C. Goff

Perhaps in no profession in the world is prosperity and success so universal as in agriculture. A poor farmer is a rarity, especially in Clinton county, and if one is found who obtains a substantial living with difficulty it does not mean that he is a failure in life. Upon investigation it will be found that many times has he put his shoulder to a friend's wheel and aided others, whereby he hurt himself. Those are the unnumbered heroes. However, that does not fit the case of our subject, for he is known as one of the most wellto-do men of the county and state, at the same time retaining all the qualities which make a popular man, which qualities in other men have often been dulled and stunted by the acquisition of wealth.

Jonathan Goff was born April 10, 1852, in Johnson township, Clinton county, and was the son of Charles W. and Hester (Kerry) Goff. Charles Goff as a native of Indiana, having lived in both Clinton and Hamilton counties. He followed farming all of his life, and in politics was a Democrat. He died in 1864. The mother was also a native of Hamilton county. Twelve children were bron to this union, five of whom, as follows, are living: Becky

Tonathan Goff has been twice married. His first wife was Lucinda Tane Rector, daughter of Moses and Rachel (Gibson) Rector, both natives of Indiana. She was born October 22, 1852, in Sugar Creek tow nship, Clinton county. The wife died January 12. iqit. leaving fourteen children, as follows: Charles Victor, born October 1 7, 1872. and married to Amanda Robinson; Mrs. Mary Bartels, born May t8, 1876; Mrs. Dora Williams, born December T7. 1877; Mrs. Arzona Tuder, born September T2, 1880; Mrs. Sylvia Kent, born November 7. t88i : Mrs. Daisy Myers, born June 25. 1883; Maggie F.. born March 26, 1885. died January 20. 1907: Amos S., bom

March 29, 1882, died April 12, 1903; Western E., born September 7, 1889, married Aladge Keys; Melvin M., born February 13, 1897; Belvie Pearl, born September 13, 1897. The others were not named. The second wife, whom Mr. Goff married on April 30, 1913, was Mrs. Luly Thompson, nee Patrick.

Our subject has been a farmer all his life, and it has meant prosperity and success to him from the beginning. In the year 1885 Mr. Goff moved to the state of Nebraska and farmed there until November, 1897, when he returned to Indiana. He is now living retired from the active duties of his farm, but sees to its proper management. Air. Goff owns eight hundred and forty acres of land where he lives and two hundred more in Kirklin township, near Cyclone. Of the farm here all is tillable except forty acres, which is in good pasture and timber land. The land is equipped with the latest improvements, added by Air. Goff himself. He has also dealt in live stock a little, at one time taking an interest in the breeding of Belgian horses.

Mr. Goff's second wife was previously married, twice, her first husband being James Cahoon and her second William Thompson. By her first marriage there were three children, Blanche. Oris and John, the latter deceased. She was a daughter of John and Christy Ann (Diehl) Patrick, natives of Lehigh county. Pennsylvania, who came to Clinton county, Indiana, in an early day.

Oliver M. Stroup

Prominent mention is given in this volume to other members of the Stroup family, which family is among the best and most representative of the county of Clinton. Oliver M. Stroup has upheld his end of the family reputation in a most commendable manner, and he well deserves mention in a work the extent of this volume. Agriculture has been his domain, and he is yet a young man. great prospects are ahead for him in the cultivation of the soil, to say nothing of social and business successes.

Oliver Stroup was born August 23, 1870, in Johnson township, Clinton county, and was the son of Jacob and Afargaret (DeFord) Stroup. The father was born January 9, 1839, in Madison county, Ohio, and was the son of Jacob and Naomia (Debington) Stroup. He followed the trade of the farmer all of his life and today lives happily in retirement in Kempton, Indiana. The mother was a native of Indiana, but her parents, Edward and Julia (^Rancipherj DeFord, were from Ohio. Twelve children were born to the union, and they are mentioned in the sketch of Jacob Stroup.

Our subject received a good education in the schools of Johnson township, and immediately embarked upon the vocation which is his life work - agriculture. General farming is his forte, although he raises Jersey Red hogs and a good breed of cattle on the side, also a Percheron and mixed variety of horses. Mr. Stroup owns one hundred and sixty-three acres of excellent land in this township. The acres are well tiled and fenced, and are extremely tillable and protable to the owner. Mr. Stroup built his own attractive home therein.

Air. Stroup was married to Alary A. Cunningham on September 21, 1892. She was born in Johnson township on November 15, 1875, and was the daughter of Harvey and Harriet (ATanes) Cunningham. Airs. Stroup received a common school education. Eight children have been born to the union: Lavon, born April 9. 1894; Gladys, born June 8, 1896, died Alarch

Fraternally. Air. Stroup belongs to the ATasonic Order at Scircleville, and the Improved Order of Red ATen at the same place. Politically, he is a Republican, but has never been a candidate for office.

Kosciusko Tarrell

The truth that life unfolds is that the most useful and desirable existence is one that results in the greatest good to the greatest number of people, and though everyone does not reach the height of such a life, yet in a great measure each can win the success that commands the admiration of his fellows. High office and wealth is not essential to the higher life; it is really the men in humbler walks of life that accomplish the little deeds that work for immortality. The subject of this sketch is no longer on this earth, but his kindly acts, his clean, wholesome, virtuous life burns as a torch to light the memories of those after him, and to encourage the imitation of his faultless life. ''It is the little, unremembered acts of kindness and of love " that perpetuate the remembrance of one of Clinton county's noblest citizens, Kosciusko Jarrell.

Mr. Jarrell was born in Boone county, Indiana, March 29, 1854, being the son of W illiam and Anna (Bennett) Jarrell. Both of his parents were natives of Indiana. The parents were educated in the common schools of Thorntown, in Boone county. William Jarrell followed the blacksmithing trade during his life and held a wide acquaintance among the farmers of the county. Seven children completed his family, one of whom, Lillian, is now living.

After a period of attendance in the common schools, Kosciusko Jarrell began his life devoted to the pursuit of agriculture. When twenty-six years of age on May 5, 1880, he married Jennie Kersey, who was born in Boone county, June 7, 1861, the daughter of Albert and Elizabeth (Woods) Kersey. The wife's father was born in Kentucky, and died January 24, 1890; the mother also was a Kentuckian by birth. She passed from this life January 24, 1873. Albert Kersey was a Republican and a farmer throughout his life. A large family of nine children graced his home, and six of them are still living. They are Thomas, Mary, Jennie, Margaret, Marina and Emma.

To Kosciusko Jarrell and wife there were born nine children, all of whom are living. They are: Ray, born February 24, 1882, married to Jessie Barnett; Walter, born April 3, 1884; Ralph, born August 13, 1885, married to Lillian Burk; Charles, born May 14, 1887; Olive, born August 29, 1890; Carrie, born August 16, 1892; Robert, born July 27, 1894; David, July 20, 1898, and Lena, born November 7, 1900.

Until his death, May 24, 1909, Kosciusko Jarrell remained a farmer. He moved to Jackson towuship, Clinton county, in 1890, and settled upon two hundred acres of the very best land in the county, part of which is still covered by valuable timber. Mr. Jarrell placed the land in a fine state of cultivation, and has every square foot well tiled. His home wras built by his own hand and is a worthy monument to its departed owner.

Mr. Jarrell was always a member of the Christian church at Salem, in Boone county. He was faithful to the Republican party during his life, preferring to support other capable candidates for office rather than to step into publicity himself.

David Robertson

A careful, industrious farmer of Clinton county is David Robertson, one of the younger generation of agriculturists who are upholding the reputation of their fathers as tillers of the soil. Mr. Robertson learned many things of the vocation while he was youth, and as youthful impressions are the strongest and are the guides to future life, and as his father's teaching was perfect in class and technique, he has had no trouble ranking among the most successful and scientific of this county's farmers. His ancestors were good Hoosier people who early in the century broke the forests of Indiana in order that a home might be erected.

Air. Robertson was born on February 12, 1880, in Howard county, Indiana, and was the son of Bryant and Mary Jane (Gullion) Robertson. The father was born April 8, 1845, in Rush county, and is still living in Forest. The mother was born in 1849 in Howard county, and survives. Both parents received a common school education and the father followed farming all his life. He was a Democrat. Eight children were born to the union: Minnie, Loren, David, Daniel, Martha, Pearl, Homer and Ernest.

David Robertson received the usual common school training in Howard county, and then took up active farming. He moved in 1897 from Howard county to Forest township and then jumped to Johnson township, where he now lives. He has continued to farm ever since, and raises Jersey milch cows and Jersey hogs on the side. He has one hundred and ninety-six acres of land where he lives and which belongs to his wife's father. It is all tillable with the exception of twenty acres, which is in timber. On the estate is a fine home, which is a model for a country residence.

Mr. Robertson was married on December 24, 1902, to Jennie Davis, who was horn in this township on May 23, 1882, the daughter of William H. and Mollv ( Pruitt! Davis, farmers who now reside in Forest township. Three children have been born of this union: Lillie. January 10. 1903: William.

John Lincoln Sctiooley

Under a popular government, like that of the United States, where the democratic idea of equality is as fully developed as the present imperfect condition of mankind will permit, we expect as its legitimate result the triumph of individual worth and energy over all the competition that wealth and class may array against them. Here the avenues of wealth and distinc- tion are fully opened to all, which fact enhances rather than detracts from the merits of those whose energy and integrity have triumphed over all obstacles intervening between an humble position and the attainment of these laudable ends. Mr. Schooley. of whom we speak in this sketch, has won a place at the top of the ladder for himself, and he holds marked prestige among the self-made men of his county and who by the exercise of those talents and qualities which have been cultivated from his youth, has reached an honorable position in the public service and earned the respect and high esteem of his fellow citizens.

John Lincoln Schooley was born in Marion county, Indiana, on November 26, 1861, and was the son of James W. and Agnes (Cones) Schooley. James W. Schooley was the son of James W., Sr., and Ruth (Greenwood) Schooley, and was born in Maryland on April 1, 1827. James W. Schooley, Sr., was born in the state of Delaware in April, 1806, and was a son of Thomas Schooley. The information concerning the life of Thomas Schooley is very limited, consisting of the facts that he was born in Ireland and came to America prior to the American Revolution, following the farmer's life during his career.

James W. Schooley, Sr., was a typical man of the sturdy pioneer class, and spent his useful life in farming. In the later years of his life he came to Marion county, Indiana, settling where North Indianapolis now lies. He died in 1848. Ruth Greenwood, his wife, was born in 1804 in the state of Delaware, and died in Kingman, Kansas, at the age of ninety-three years.

James W. Schooley, Jr., received his early training on the farm, and up until the time he was fifteen years of age he followed that occupation. He has now retired from active life, and is living quietly in Seattle, Washington. During his life Mr. Schooley was at different times a Whig, a Democrat, and a Republican. He was once elected by the Republicans in Caney township. Montgomery county, Kansas, as a trustee, and he served faithfully as same for eight successive terms. Religiously, he was a member of the Christian church, and also held membership with the Grangers. He married Agnes Cones in 1848, a girl who was born in Marion county, this state, in 1828, and died in Boone county, Indiana, in 1871.

To take up the details in the life of our immediate subject we may say first of all that his early education was of the best that Hoosier schools afforded. After completing the common schools he attended DePauw Universitv for one year. Leaving the Greencastle school he traveled to Kansas and spent seven years there in the real estate and insurance business, making a complete success of that work. To prove that he was a man of esteem and reputation in Caney, \ve have but to point to the fact that he was elected police judge for three years and mayor of the city one term. Mr. Schooley next came to Indianapolis and entered the coal business. He worked for A. Thayer for thre years, and then for two years conducted the same business for himself. The call of the farm was strong in Mr. Schooley, and consequently he followed his impulses. He settled on a farm in Clinton county, renting the land. So quickly did success follow his efforts that he now owns his own farm of ninety-six acres in Kirklin township, this county. In 1910 he was elected county assessor and is now filling admirably the responsibilities of that office, at the same time managing his farm.

Politically, Mr. Schooley is a Republican, and has always been an active worker in the ranks. He places his religious faith in the Presbyterian church and is a ruling elder at Prairie Center Presbytery, as well as clerk of sessions.

Our subject was united in marriage on December 3, 1887, to Emma Carrick, who was born in Clinton county August 13, 1867, and died in Indianapolis in 1898. Mr. Schooley married the second time on August 23, 1900, to Rena j. Major, w'ho was born in Clinton county February 16, 1868. One child has been born of this latter union, Margaret, who is now in the public schools.

Archie R. Davis

Among the younger generation of Johnson township, Clinton county, who have begun to make a reputation for business integrity, personal charm and industry is the subject of this sketch, the prominent young banker of Hillisburg, whose accomplishments to date have been many and worthy, and it is no idle prediction to say in this sketch that ere he has reached the three score and ten he will rank with the representative men of whatever community he may be associated with.

Archie R. Davis was born May 9, 1885, in Forest township, this county, and was the son of S. M. and Hannah B. (Clark) Davis. S. M. Davis is also a native of this locality, being born here and died here on April 20, 1889. He had a good education and utilized this in the vocation of teaching for a number of vears. However, his main occupation was farming, and he voted the Democratic ticket. The mother was bom in Clinton county on December 9, i860, and is still living at the home of our subject. The father was married twice, his first wife being Isabelle Rlair, who died after giving birth to one

Archie Davis received a very creditable education in the common and high schools of his native township, and began business life afterward on the farm. He stayed there until the year 1912, when the Hillisburg Bank was organized. W. A. Thomas was chosen to be president and John Dunn, vicepresident; our subject was made cashier, with Joseph Foreman acting as assistant cashier. The bank began business August 5, 1912, with a capital stock of twenty thousand dollars, operating as a private bank. Our subject owns about three hundred and sixty acres of fine farm land in Johnson and Forest townships and it is all well tiled, drained and fenced. His mother owns part of this estate. Mr. Davis is building, at this writing, a commodious and upto-date bungalow in Hillisburg.

Mr. Davis was married on September 18, 1907, to Regina Stotter, who was born September 18, 1890, in Forest township, the daughter of Marion F. and Margaret (Johnson) Stotter. who were natives of Clinton county. The wife received a common school education at the place of her birth. Two children have been born of this union: Samuel S.. October 31, 1908. and

Fraternally, Mr. Davis is a member of the Masonic Order, and politically, a Democrat. He is an ardent member of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Samuel C. Cohee

The rewards of industry and patient application to a single task are the same, no matter what the occupation, w-hether it is laboring among a crowd of ill-paid foreigners or occupying the highest chair in. the land. Perseverance, integrity, ambition, and sociability are qualites that go to make the Amercan man par excellence, and the subject of this sketch is the fortunate possessor of these qualities. Engaged in a business in which opportunities are afforded to cultivate friends, Samuel C. Cohee has never failed to add every day to his list. His affability and his genial attitude toward the affairs of life make everyone associated with him more optimistic, and in this day and age such an influence is profoundly needed.

Mr. Cohee wTas born August 11, 1858. in Frankfort, Indiana, the son of Ezekiel and Lvdia (Michaels ) Cohee. His father was a native of Preble county, Ohio, and came to Clinton county in early manhood to follow the trade of farming. Mrs. Cohee was a daughter of Frederich Michaels, one of the earliest pioneers of this county. She died in 1880, leaving six children to mourn her loss.

Samuel Cohee lived upon the farm of his birth until he was ten vears old, and then, at that tender age, was forced to begin supporting himself. It was work or starve with the young lad, and he worked and worked hard. He began teaming, then worked in a feed store, and finally took up draying. In 1888 he had accumulated enough of the world's goods to start a livery all of his own. Accordingly he did so, and today his livery is one of the best and most completely equipped in the county.

Politically, Mr. Cohee claims affiliation with the Democratic party, and has always used his best efforts in their behalf. Fraternallv, he belongs to tbe Improved Order o-f Red Men.

The man of medicine occupies a place in the world alone; no other profession or trade or business holds the sacred trust and the emotional beauty of his; his work is hard, but it is inspired, and tilled to the brim with the Saviour's loving kindness. The Latin phrase, amicus humani generis, friend of the human race, stands as a motto to his life, and should be engraved upon the monuments of time as symbolical of the medical profession. Dr. Cooper, of our sketch, is one of the oldest practitioners in the state, having about reached the Psalmist's allotment of three score and ten, but he still continues active practice, and is regarded as a necessity by numerous families of Clinton county.

Dr. Cooper wras born on April 20, 1844, in Rush county, Indiana, and did not come to Clinton county until 1871. He was the son of Stanley and Lucinda (Ward) Cooper, natives of Kentucky, and both now being deceased. The father moved to Rush county, this state, when he was eighteen years of age. Like his son, the father was a physician of the old-time variety. He practiced in connection wdth farming and often underwent many hardships to attend to his patients. The mother was born in "Boone county. Kentucky.

Dr. Cooper's common school education was received in the schools of Rush county, and he later attended the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery, and graduated from that institution in 1871. He came to this county, to Scircleville. in that year and began his general practice, which has continued with ever increasing success until the present time. He owns a pleasant office and home in the town above mentioned.

On November 30, 1876, Dr. Cooper was married to Alice Guffin. who was born in Rush county. Indiana, on Febraarv 12, 1853. and was the daughter of Andrew and Clara (Brooks) Guffin. Her father was a native of Rush countv and her mother came from the state of Ohio. Nine children were bom to Dr. and Mrs. Cooper: Clyde (deceased). Pearl. Stanley. Lucy. Andrew (deceased), Wilson (deceased). Clara. Charles and Horace.

Dr. Cooper has always remained loyal to the Republican party, and was the first Republican ever to be elected to the office of auditor of Clinton county, which position he obtained in 1886.

Jonathan S. Snyder

Prominent among the agriculturists of Clinton county is Jonathan S. Snyder, whose name is the caption of this sketch. He has made for himself an enviable reputation among the farmers of Johnson township by reason of his honest dealings and persistent endeavor. He has ever supported any enterprise which worked for the common good, and his support has been more than a moral one. He well deserves a place in the work here in hand, and it is our pleasure to recount the few salient facts in his life history.

Mr. Snyder was born November 23, 1864, in Tippecanoe county, Indiana, and moved to Illinois in 1867. living there until 1903. when he came to Clinton county, where he now resides. Such is the travels of the son of Emanuel and Lavina (Click) Snyder. Emanuel Snyder was born in the year 1830 in Germany and he was brought to the United States when he was two or three vears old, settling successively in Ohio, in Bartholomew county. Indiana, and in Tippecanoe county. He died August 20, 1909, after a life spent in farming. He was a Democrat in politics. The mother was born in 1835. near Columbus. Ohio, and she is still living in Illinois. Eleven children were born of the union: Catherine (deceased), Simon P., Martha Laurence, Henry D., Emanuel M., Jonathan, William, Irma, Maude Puesy, Perry and one child that died unnamed.

After a good common school education, Jonathan S. Snyder took up farming, which he has continued to the present day in a highly successful manner. He also raises Duroc hogs and Jersey cattle. He owns one hundred and sixty acres of fertile land in this township and it is all tillable, well tiled and fairly well fenced. Mr. Snyder has found time away from farming to take an interest in the Masonic order at Hillisburg and to support the Democratic party.

On March 2, 1893, he was married to Clarissa Buckingham, who was born in Vermillion county, Illinois, on February 21, 1867, and was the daughter of Joseph and Eveline (Childs) Buckingham. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Snyder : Horace and Homer, twins, born November

James Storms

The career of Tames Storms, one of the most substantial and successful agriculturists of Clinton county, has ever been such as to warrant the trust and confidence of the business world, for he has conducted his transactions on the strictest principles of honesty and integrity. His co-operation with his fellow men has been unfaltering, being the result of sincere interest and regard for the interests of his county. Such men as he is what the world needs for the rapid and sure economic development.

Tames Storms was born on July 6. i860, in Decatur county, Indiana, and was the son of John W. and Nellie ( By ram) Storms. John Storms was born in Riplev county, this state, and died here in T903; the mother was a native of Decatur countv. Both parents bad a common school education, and the father was a preacher of the Baptist church and a farmer. He was a Republican. Seven children were born to the couple: Tzara. Sarah (deceasedV Rachel. Tames. Scott. Lavona and John.

After the usual common school education our subject began farming, and he has followed this successfully until the present. He owns ninetythree and one-half acres of tillable, well tiled and fenced land in this county.

and has added thereto all of the latest improvements incident to agricultural science. Besides general farming Mr. Storms raises Jersey cattle and a common breed of hogs. Before moving to Johnson township, Mr. Storms had lived in Tipton county and in Sugar Creek township, this county.

Mr. Storms was united in marriage to Mary E. Cox in April, 1883. She was born in Sugar Creek township, Clinton countv, in March, 1865, and was the daughter of Amberson and Millie (Alexander) Cox, who were natives of the Blue Grass state. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Storms : Stella. July 7, 1885 ; Alta, July 8, 1887 ; Roy, July 6, 1889, now studying for the medical profession; and Given, June 1, 1896.

Fraternally, Mr. Storms is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. No. 482, at Kempton, Ind. Religiously, he is a Baptist, and politically is a Republican.

Lew Wallace Good

Prominent among the agriculturists of Clinton county is Lew Wallace Good ,of Jackson township. This county boasts of her farmers, and Mr. Good occupies a prominent place among them. He is a true t\pe of the sturdy Indiana farmer, clean, educated, hard-working and possessing a large share of native wisdom.

Mr. Good is the third in a family of eleven children, namely: Leona, Flora, Lew, William, Rosie, Lulu, Ora, Clifford, America, Goldie and Katie. He was born in Jackson township on the fifteenth day of February, 1873, being the son of Phillip N. and Josephine (Abbott) Good. His father was born January 31, 1848, near the little town of Mulberry, Ind., and died January 13, 1896. Phillip Good had the advantage of a common school education, and utilized the start he gained there in a life of usefulness. He remained a farmer until his death, and always clung to the policies of a Jeffersonian Democrat. Josephine Good, the mother, was Josephine Abbott before marriage, and was born in Boone county in the year 1840, also educated in the early schools of that county. She still lives happily in Jackson township, Clinton county.

Lew W. Good has always followed his favorite occupation, that of farming. Early in his life, he lived in the southeastern portion of the township and later moved to an estate just north of Frankfort, where he learned the rudiments of the agricultural art. In 1912 he came to his present home. At this place, Mr. Good owns one hundred and fifty-three acres of excellent tillable soil, which he manages, with the aid of the newest and best improvements. The whole of the farm has been carefully tiled by the owner, and the barns, fences, and equipment placed in ship-shape condition. Besides this land, Mr. Good owns thirty-nine acres of equally valuable land in Warren township. In addition to his general farming efforts, Mr. Good is a thorough student of animal husbandry; making a specialty of Hampshire hogs, Shorthorn and Jersey cows.

Although never actively engaged in politics or public life, Mr. Good follows in the footsteps of his father, and is a Democrat clear through. His political views are not modeled after the dictation of the party in power, but after his own judgment of good and just government. He is also an enthusiastic and capable member of the Methodist Episcopal church.

On June 18, 1899, Mr. Good was married to Vannie Douglass, also of Jackson township. She is the daughter of Robert C. Douglass and Mary (Pickering) Douglass, and was born November 26, 1881. She received a comman school education in the county of her birth. To Mr. and Mrs. Good there have been born five children: Oscar, bom January 3, 1900; Ada, November 22, 1901; Robert, March 14, 1904; Marvin, February 20, 1906, and Ruby, February 19, 19 11.

William A. Dunn

The gentleman whose name heads this paragraph is regarded as one of the most progressive agriculturists of Michigan township, Clinton county, where he has spent his life. His well directed efforts in practical everv-dav affairs, his capable management of his business interests and his sound judgment have brought to him prosperity and his life demonstrates what may be accomplished by any man of energy and ambition who is not afraid to work and has the perseverance to continue his labors in the face of many discouragements which may seem to arise. In all the relations of life he has commanded the respect and confidence of those with whom he has been brought into contact.

William A. Dunn was born on the first day of the year 1851. in Michigan township. Clinton county, and was the son of Zeth and Elizabeth (Pruitt) Dunn, the father having been bom in 1818 in Jennings coutv, Indiana, and died August 12, 1856. He was a farmer and a Republican, and moved here after his marriage, also lived in Bartholomew county for a time. The mother (37) was born July 12, 1826, in Bartholomew county. Six children were born to the union, namely: Alaggie Clark, Mary Miller, William A., John, Albert,

Our subject received a small education in Bartholomew county and after his father's death he moved to the above county with his widowed mother and there they stayed until the fall of 1865. Since that time Air. Dunn has remained a farmer, and at present owns one hundred acres where he lives, all of which is tillable with the exception of two acres, which is in pasture. The land is tiled and fenced in approved fashion, and Air. Dunn has built his own home. Air. Dunn also owns another small farm west of here. He raises Jersey cows, Boland China mixed with Chester White hogs, and common breed of horses. Politically, Air. Dunn is a Democrat.

On October 22, 1878, Air. Dunn was married to Laura Heaton, who was born in Forest township on February 25, 1856, and was the daughter of Sanford and Rebecca (Nixon) Heaton, natives of Rush county, Indiana. The father was a farmer and a Democrat. Airs. Dunn received a common October 4, 1878, married Clifford Crawford; Pearl, born October 12, 1880. married Bert Wood : Dillard, born August 5, 1884, married Alabel Zerfas; Artie, born February 24, 1891, at home: Denzel, born Alay 16. 1893, and Vera, born July 13, 1896.

Charles L. Fearnow

One of the enterprising young agriculturists of Johnson township, Clinton county, who possesses the respect and good will of all who know him and is classed with the representative men of the township in which he lives is Charles L. Fearnow. Our subject comes of Virginian ancestry, and well may he be proud to trace his lineage back to such a source. In the development of the agricultural division of Clinton history, he has played a prominent part, and the good part of it is that his career of activity is just a beginning, for Air. Fearnow is just in the prime of life.

Harrison Fearnow, our subject's father, was born Tune 5, 1843, 'n Alorgan county. West Virginia, and during the time of the Civil war he came to Ohio. He escaped to Ohio to avoid the impressment of the rebel armv who were forcing men to serve their cause. Flis military career was confined to a period of scout duty. Mr. Fearnow is still living in this townshp south of our subject. The mother, who was Martha Goodnight, was born June 4, 1848, in Fayette county, Ohio, and she is still living. Harrison Feamow engaged in the merchandise business in Ohio for several years and was very successful at the same. In connection with his father, our subject's grandfather, he built the first grain elevator handled by scoops in this part of Clinton county. Harrison Fearnow is now living a retired life, spending his winters in Florida. Politically, he is a Progressive. Our subject is one of four children : Lily

Charles L. Fearnow was born March 14, 1872, in Highland county, Ohio, and later moved to Fayette county, the same state, where the family lived until the subject was five years of age. Then they moved to Clinton county, Johnson township, and here Charles L. has lived ever since. He owns one hundred and seventy-six acres of fertile land in this county, all of which is in as excellent condition as improved scientific methods can make it. Mr. Fearnow carries on general farming, and raises Polled Durham cattle and a common breed of hogs. He built his own commodious home on the estate.

Mr. Fearnow was married on September 20, 1894, to May Howe, who was born January 18, 1870, in Fayette county, Ohio, the daughter of G. \V. and Cynthia (Goodnight) Howe, who were natives of Ohio. Mrs. Fearnow received a common school education in her youth. Seven children have been born of the union: Warren, December 2. 1895: Emil. December 27, 1897: Meryl, December 10. 1899: Ralph. March 13, 1901: Robert. Tulv 26. T903: Ruth. September 10. 1906: and Don, April 5, 1909.

John C. Shockley

In the list of honored and successful citizens of Clinton county is the subject of this review, who has here maintained his residence for nearly a half century, winning a definite and lasting success by means of the agricultural industrv, to which he has devoted his undivided attention during the years of his active business life. His career has been without shadow of suspicion and his many friends and acquaintances will attest to his integrity in business dealings. and the magnetic personality which has won the esteem of his fellowmen.

and moved with his parents in 1864 to Clinton county, where he now lives, forty rods from the county line. He was the son of Daniel B. and Jemima (Mclntire) Shockley. I he father was born in Madison countv, O., and moved to Tipton county, this state, after his marriage. He followed farming' all of his life, he passed from active to retired life at an old age, and now lives to enjoy the fruits of a life well spent. The mother was born in the same county and state as her husband. Both of them were handicapped in the matter of education, because in their day schools were scarce and what there were could not be called efficient. Six children were born to them: A. ].. James A. (dec.). John C., our subject: Arsitta. Sarah F.. and G. \Y.

All the education our subject w as able to get was in the common schools near Kempton, Tipton county. His life resolved itself shortly after leaving school into that of an agriculturist. His hundred and seventy acres of land here in Sugar Creek township are all tillable and well tilled, and the home, built by Mr. Shockley himself, is one of the best in the township. In addition to general farming he carries on the breeding of all kinds of fine stock. Mr. Shockley also has two hundred and sixty- four acres in Tipton countv. all tillable, south of Kempton. Ind.

Mr. Shockley was married on November 11, 1882. to Marv D. Rector, who was born in 1861 in Sugar Creek township, the daughter of Robert and Mary (Searcy) Rector. Her father was a native of Indiana, and the mother came from the state of Kentucky. Seven children were born of the union of Mr. and Mrs. Shockley; O. YY.. Opal, Nellie, Fay and Ray, twins, and Cecil.

Fraternally, Mr. Shockley belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, lodge at Kempton. Religiously, he attend- the Christian church, and politically believes in the Democratic platform.

Lincoln Cox

Among the representative agriculturists and public-spirited men of Clinton county, who, while advancing their own interests, have not neglected their duty to the community at large, is Lincoln Cox, the honored subject of this sketch. He possesses many fine traits of character which are inherited from his father, wrho wras one of the hardy pioneers of this county and a veteran of the Civil war. Mr. Cox is one of the best known farmers and business me nof this community, and together with his large material reward, makes it appropriate that we should give the details of his worthy life in these few

Lincoln Cox w as born February 7. 1858. in Sugar Creek township, Clinton county, and was the son of Walter E. and Milly (Alexander) Cox. The father w as a native of Kentucky, and moved to Clinton county in 1846 w hen a boy, and here he has followed farming all of his life. He was Republican. He died in January, 1879. The mother w as also born in the "dark and bloody ground" country, and she still resides in Kempton, Ind. Ten children were born to the union, the eight living ones Iteing: John P.. Lincoln. Marv E. Storms, Elias. Laura J. Carter, Almira, Flora, and Xoah.

Our subject received a common school education in the schools of Sugar Creek township, and then took up farming, which was destined to be his life w ork. He has also paid much attention do the breeding of fine animals. He possesses two hundred and sixty acres of excellent soil, very tillable and well tiled, with the exception of fourteen acres which is in woods and pasture. The late improvements which dot the estate are all by the hand of Mr. Cox himself.

Mr. Cox w as married to Louie Longfellow on October 22, r888. She w as born in Tipton county, Ind.. July 11. 1863. the daughter of William and Lucinda (Eliason) Longfellow. She received a common school education in her vouth. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Cox there have been born four children: Ravmond. Walter. Cleo. and Inez (dec.).

Politically, Mr. Cox is a Progressive. For a term beginning in 1900. he served as count\ commissioner., the period of his activities in this capacity extending over three years.

George S. Boyer

The name of Boyer has been signicant in the agricultural development of Clinton coutnv since the early history of the locality, when the courageous pioneers blazed their way into the forests and endured the hardships in order to establish a home that their children might have lives of happiness and pros" perity. Our subject's father was one of the loyal legion of settlers who found a habitation of Indians and animals in the Hoosier territory, and with primitive tools cleared their settlements. George S. Boyer has continued the work inaugurated by his father, and has upheld the family reputation for honesty of purpose, sympathetic cooperation with others, and ohedience to the laws of ethics which civilization demands.

George S. Boyer was born in Sugar Creek township, this county, on November 26, 1862, and was the son of Francis M. and Catherine (Day) Boyer. The life of the father and mother are treated at length in the last half of this review. The father still resides in the township of his son's home.

The Sugar Creek township common schools afforded a limited education to George Boyer, but he made the most of their advantages, and then took up active work in agriculture. He has so continued ever since, and also takes a great interest in the breeding of fine stock, particularly Poland China hogs. He owns one hundred and twenty acres of fertile land which is tillable with the exception of ten acres, which is in timber. The land is well tiled and the beautiful home on the estate was built by Mr. Boyer.

On April 7, 1888, Mr. Boyer was married to Cora McKinney, who was born November 28, 1868 in Sugar Creek township, the daughter of James C. and Josephine (Ward) McKinney, and received a common school education in her youth. She was called to her eternal rest on September 6, 1906, after a life of religious devotion and good works: she was a member of the Christian church. Four children were born to this first union of our subject : Mrs. Ada Goodnight, December 4, 1891; Ethel. December 4, 1894, died in 1895: Reona, March 16, 1897, ar*d Georgia, September 10. 1902. Our subject's first wife's sister married a Mr. Wainscott, and they have one child, Wayne Roy, born October 25, 1895. Mr. Boyer has raised the lad and loves him as if he were his own.

Mr. Boyer was married the second time on March 6. 1912 to Martha E. Batman, who was born August 14. 1870 in Putnam county, the daughter of Thomas W. and Martha A. (Anderson) Batman, both of whom are deceased.

Mr. Boyer belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Pickard, Lodge No. 321. He is a member of the Christian church and politically is a Republican. He was elected trustee of Sugar Creek township in 1908 and is still fulfilling the duties of that office with satisfaction to everyone.

Francis M. Boyer was born February 7, 1836 in Decatur county, Ind., and was brought to Clinton county by his parents when he was onlv two years old. He was the son of Leonard and Amelia (King) Boyer, who were born and reared in the states of New York and Kentucky, respectively. Very little education could be had by these two. and the father immediately took up farming. He was a Republican by politics. Six children were born to them: Louvica, Francis M., Nancy, Celia A.. Robert, and one not named. Louvica and the latter are deceased.

Francis M. Boyer and the father of George S. Boyer, received the usual education of the day and then began farming in Sugar Creek township. He owns fifty-seven acres where he lives and continues general work with the breeding of good stock, including Poland China hogs. He also owns thirtysix acres of good land south of here in the same township. With the exception of a little woodland, all of his ground is extremely tillable and is well tiled and fenced. Mr. Boyer is reported to be the oldest living resident of this township.

Francis M. Boyer was married on October 20, 1859 to Catherine E. Day, who was born October 17, 1840 in Clinton county, O., and moved to Boone county, Ind., when but a child. She was the daughter of Sylvenus and Jane (Ferguson) Day, respectively natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio. The father was a farmer. Our subject's wife had a good common school education. Ten children were 1>orn to them, seven of whom are still living: Lewis (deceased), George S., Leander and Leonard, twins (the latter deceased), Jane. William, Emma, Julia, Noah (deceased), and Bertha.

Mr. Boyer belonged to the Improved Order of Red Men at Pickard Mills and is the oldest member of the lodge at the present day. He was also a great Granger. Politically, Mr. Boyer is a Republican and at one time in his earlier day was very conspicuous in state politics.

Clarence G. Snodgrass

Clarence G. Snodgrass was born April 25, 1887 in Kirklin township, this county, the son of Garrett and Laura (Bridgford) Snodgrass. The father was born in 1838 in Hancock county, Ind., and all of his active life followed farming successfully. He was a prominent Republican and was interested in the affairs of the Christian church. He died October 18, 1907. The mother was born October 7, 1851, in Marion county, Ind., and she is still living in the town of Kirklin. Three children were born of the union: Clarence G. ; Robert, born March 26, 1891, a graduate of Wabash College, now an assistant professor there; and Mary, born December 18, 1893, now living with her mother.

Our subject was married May 9. 1909 to Ethel Fulkerson. She was born in Clinton county, Nov. 17, 1890, the daughter of Charles and Flora (Isgrigg) Fulkerson and received a good common and high school education

After finishing the common schools in Clinton county our subject attended Purdue University, and then removed to take up farming in Clinton county. His course while in Purdue was the agricultural one, which has an international reputation. At present he lives on his mother's farm in Kirklin township, comprising about three hundred and twenty acres, two hundred and forty acres where he lives, and the remainder near Cyclone, Ind. Of the two hundred and forty, one hundred and sixty are tillable, the balance being in good pasture and second growth timber. The place is well tiled and fenced, and the home is of the most modern. Of the eighty acres near Cyclone, all is tillable but sixteen acres. Aside from general farming our subject raises and breeds stock.

He belongs to the Masonic Order of Kirklin and religiously is a member of the Christian church. Politically, he belongs to the Republican party.

William Stephenson

In the death of the late William Stephenson, president of the Bank of Rossville and one of Owen township's leading agriculturists, Clinton county lost one of its most energetic men of affairs, who, through a long lapse of years was prominent in the various circles in which he moved and whose potent influence for good will continue to pervade the lives of those with whom he came in contact. As the day, with its morning of hope and promise, its noontide of activity and accomplishment, its evening of completed and successful efforts, ending in the grateful rest and quiet of the night, so was the life of this good and honored man. His career was a long, busy and useful one, fraught with much good to himself, his family and to humanity, and his memory will long be revered by those who had occasion to be associated with him in business, public or social life. His activities in a material way added to his individual prosperity and to the welfare of the locality of his choice. Devoting the major part of his time and attention to the further development of his industrial interests, he never allowed the pursuit of wealth to warp his kindly nature, but preserved his faculties and the warmth of his heart for the broadening and helpful influence of human life, being to the end a kindly, genial friend, neighbor and gentleman whom it was a pleasure

Clixtox Couxty, India X A.

William Stephenson was born November 8, 1840, in Butler county, Ohio, where he spent his earlier years, received his education and remained until after the close of the Civil War, when he removed to Clinton county, locating in Owen township, where the rest of his life was spent. He was a son of Samuel and Jane (Stewart) Stephenson, both natives of Ohio, where they grew up, were educated and married and spent their lives, having never come to Indiana. The family of Samuel Stephenson and wife consisted of eight children, all now deceased but one; they were named as follows: John, William, our subject; Jefferson, James, Robert, Alexander, Nancy, the only one living, and Emma.

William Stephenson began life for himself as a school teacher which he followed with much success for a period of fourteen years, during which his services were in great demand. When the Civil War came on he proved his courage and loyalty to the Union by enlisting for service in the federal army, in which he proved to be a gallant and faithful soldier. His military career is given in detail in the sketch of Morton Stephen, son, appearing on another page of this volume.

William Stephenson was married on October 2, 1866, to Emeline J. Brown, who was born in Carroll county, Indiana, where she grew to womanhood and received her education and lived until her marriage. The date of her birth was October 16, 1848, and she was a daughter' of Samuel and Lettie M. (Sibbit) Brown, natives of Lehigh county, Pa.

Air. Stephenson went to housekeeping in Carroll county and he farmed there about eight years, then came to Owen township, Clinton count, locating where his son. James Stephenson now lives and he continued farming and stock raising on a large scale the rest of his life, becoming one of the leading general agriculturists of the county, at the time of his death. January 10, 1912. He owned at that time a well improved and valuable estate of four hundred and fifty-seven acres, all in Owen township and in one body. He built his own home, a large, modernly appointed and cozy dwelling, equipped with electric lights and other modern conveniences, where his widow now lives, owning one hundred and sixty acres roundabout. He was also president of the Bank at Rossville, which he assisted in organizing, was also a director in the bank at Sedalia which he helped organize.

party affairs. He was elected to a term as representative in the state legislature in 1892, and filled this responsible office with credit and satisfaction to his constituents. He was a worthy member of the Presbyterian church, and belonged to the Grand Army of the Republic at Rossville. Fraternally he was a member of the Masonic Order at Rossville and the Knights Templars at Frankfort, and, according to those who knew him well, he evidently tried to carry into his everyday life the practical usage of the high principles taught by this time-honored fraternity.

Mrs. Stephenson is a lady of refinement and her beautiful home is known to her many friends as a place of hospitality of an old-time flavor and she has a host of warm friends throughout the locality.

Frank Gossard

A history of the loyal native sons and representative citizens of Clinton county would not be complete should the name that heads this review be omitted. During a useful and successful life he has labored diligently, not only to promote the interests of himself and family, but also those of the general public, being one of those neighborly, altruistic, generous-hearted men whom to know is to admire and respect. It is to such men that this locality owes its rise from the primeval prairies to one of the choice agricultural sections of the Hoosier state.

Frank Gossard was born March 17. 1866, in Johnson township. Clinton countv, and was the son of Jacob and Sarah (Vanorsdall) Gossard. The father of our subject was born in Fayette county, Ohio, in January, 1826, and he moved to Indiana before his marriage. He now lives with a daughter in Tipton county, this state. His life, in the main, was spent in farming. In 1849 he traveled to New York; taking a boat there he sailed to Panama, crossed the isthmus, caught another boat and went up to California in search of gold. Unsuccessful as were many others, he finally returned home after two or three years to Ohio. The mother was born in Ohio in the year 1836. and still lives in Tipton county with a daughter. Sixteen children were born to them ; the eight still living are : Mary Holmes, Oliver, Frank. Ada Finney, Tames. Artie, Hattie and Harry.

soil," so to speak, beginning an agricultural life. Farming has always been his main occupation, although he was connected for a while with the poultry business in Illinois. At one time Mr. Gossard raised Poland China hogs and Red cattle on a very extensive scale ; cattle and hog feeding being a specialty with him. He owns one hundred and twenty acres of excellent soil in Johnson township, all of which is tillable, well tiled and adequately fenced. Mr. Gossard built his home, which is modernly appointed in every respect. He also ow ns one hundred and sixty acres of land in Randolph county, on which land our subject's oldest son lives at this time.

On September 18, 1887, Mr. Gossard was married to Oita Welshons, who was born in Johnson towmship, Clinton county, in June, 1870, the daughter of Daniel and Tamer (Overman) Welshons, who were farmers of the community. Mr. Gossard's wife received a common school education in her youth. Six children have been born to them, namely: Bernard, Charlotte,

Fraternally, Mr. Gossard belongs to the Masonic order at Scircleville, and is also a member of the Improved Order of Red Men. Politically, he is a Republican. He ran for county clerk in iqio, but was defeated along with the rest of the ticket.

Mrs. Mariah Scott

In the development of a county there are many forces. Primarily the people within the borders determine the progress, but other minor elements, such as resources, fertility of land, navigability, climate, and topography, are great factors. To take up this primal factor, the people, history has been apt to dw'ell more emphatically on the men. True they have shouldered the responsibilities, and fought and labored for a home, but behind them there has been an inspiration, a stimulus, in the person of the woman. She has endured the same hardships and faced the same dangers, adding a touch of loving-kindness which lightened the burdens of the pioneer, and made life worth living. Such a woman in the development of Clinton county has been Mrs. Scott, whose life wre take pleasure in sketching briefly for the benefit of posterity and the inspiration to the noble women who w ill yet live.

in the state of Kentucky and moved to Indiana before his marriage. He was a farmer all of his life and voted the Republican ticket. At one time he was a trustee of Sugar Creek township. The mother was also a native of Kentucky and died in August, 1896. The father died in 1891. Both parents received the education given by the limited schools of their youth, and lived happily and long in the midst of prosperity. Eleven children comprised the family, three - our subject, John B., and Thomas still living.

Mrs. Scott received a common school education, supplemented by the training of a good and careful home. On March 21, 1875, our subject was married to John Cunningham, who was born in Randolph county, Ind., in 1842, and he died in 1882. Just one child, Grace, was born to them, April 1, 1877, in Sugar Creek township. After a common school education she married, November 17, 1896, Andrew J. Merrill, who was born in Clinton county, July 5, 1875. Mrs. Scott now lives at her daughter's home. To her daughter there have been born eight children: Paul. September 8, 1897; Von, April 6, 1899; Lily M., April 3, 1900; Carl, May 18, 1902: John, July 4, 1905; William C.. July 23, 1907': George. September 25. 1909; and Charles. October 1, 1911. They carry on general farming on their estate of eighty acres, and the land is very fertile and tillable, producing a good yield every year. Mr. Merrill belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and the whole family attend the Baptist church.

Mrs. Scott was married the second time to Samuel Scott, horn in Marion county, Ind.. in 1842. He was a butcher and stock trader by trade. He died February 4, 1893.

James M. Fletcher

Under the old-fashioned method of grain farming the rush of work was limited to a few months of the year, and the labor was made easier by the use of farm machinery. Under the new diversified farming, and especially liecause of the care of more live stock, farm work demands the farmer's whole time the year round: and consequently social life, in spite of rural telephones, has declined. The biggest problem nowadays is to get sufficient help. Women's work on the farm has been eased by running water, washing machines, and many things, but on most farms it is still necessary for the women to help with the general chores and some take part in the work of harvesting the crops in the rush season. One of the farmers of Forest township, Clinton county, who has so carefully studied out the problems of modern farming as to eliminate much of its drudgery for both himself and the women folks of his family is James M. Fletcher, who seems to make a good living at the minimum expenditure of labor.

Mr. Fletcher was born on March 9, t 87 1 . in the above named township and county, and here he has been content to spend his life. He is a son of Thomas B. and Susan (Ransopher) Fletcher. The father was born in 1843, and he was brought, when a child, to this locality where he grew to manhood, receiving such educational advantages as the early day schools afforded, and here he has lived ever since, being now a resident of Johnson township. The farm which he developed he also cleared, bringing it up from the virgin natural state. Fie has devoted his entire life to farming. Politically he is a Democrat. The mother of our subject was born in 1844, coming to Clinton countv, Tnd.. in early life. She, too. received a limited schooling. She is still living. Nine children have been born to Thomas B. Fletcher and w ife, namely : Mandv. Mollv. Cora, and Tames M. of this sketch, all living: and John, Effie, Millv deceased, and two others who died in infancy.

fames M. Fletcher grew to manhood on the home farm and there assisted with his Tare of the work. lie received a common school education. On Februarv 3. 1896 he was united in marriage to Dove Adair, who was born in Clinton county in iSyr. She is a daughter of James \Y. and Myra (Burgett) Adair, both of whom are 'till liv ing. Here Mrs. Fletcher grew to womanhood and received a common school education.

To our subject and wife nine children have been born, namely: Dayton. Virgil and Vernal, born March 6, 1899; Ethel. Mamie: Kenneth, born June 22. 1904; Lena, Edith and Tames Lester.

Mr. Fletcher has alwavs engaged in farming in his native township. He ow ns one hundred and thirty acres, all tillable but about five acres, which is in pasture and timber, and his place is well tiled and otherwise well improved. He makes a specialtv of raising Jersey cows, Duroc hogs, draft horses and Plymouth Rock chickens.

Fraternallv Mr. Fletcher is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Forest and the Improved Order of Red Men at Scircleville. Politicallv he is a Democrat.

John William Wellman

The pioneers of Clinton indeed taught well. Another of the younger generation of agriculturists who has learned well the lessons of thrift and industry from his fathers is the subject of this short review. Mr. Wellman has accomplished great things during the comparatively few years he has been engaged in his vocation, and it is reasonable to suppose that he will, in the future, earn even a larger and better reputation for labor well placed. He is representative of the best class of the community which we call Clinton county, and to his friends, neighbors, and business acquaintances, he bears a name for altruism and charity, though stern if the occasion demands.

John William Wellman was born August io, 1872. in Sugar Creek township, Clinton county, and is the son of John M. and Nancy Ann (Ray) Wellman. The father was born in Rush county, Ind., and later moved to this place, taking up the work of farming, which he followed the rest of his life. He was a Democrat before the election (if Beniamin Harrison, but at that time became a Republican, and remained so until his death in tqoo. The mother was a native of Clinton county, and her worthy and beautiful life extended over the period from 1834 to 1800. fifty-six years. Both the parents received common school educations in the pioneer schools, which were mostly described by the word experience. Seven children were born of the union: Tames A.. George Glee.). Sarah E. (dec.). Charles. John W., Thomas J.. and Eliza I.

John William Wellman attended the common and high schools, and then began to teach school in Sugar Creek township. He also taught in Johnson township, this county. After tiring of the pedagogic life, Mr. Wellman settled down to farming and has successfully carried on the same ever since, with general breeding in addition, paying particular attention to fine Shire horses. He owns seventy-four acres of very tillable land in this township, and has it all well tiled. The beautiful home on this land is the handiwork of Mr. Wellman himself.

Our subject was united in marriage on September 3. 1908, to Idona Keever, who was born November 10, 1881. in Johnson township, Clinton county, and who is the daughter of Samuel J. and Helen (Merritt) Keever. Mrs. Wellman received a common school education, and taught school about twelve years prior to her marriage. No children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Wellman.

success in the medical profession there must be not only given technical ability, but also a broad human sympathy which must pass from mere sentiment to be an actuating motive for helpfulness. So he has dignified and honored the profession by his able and self-abnegating services in which, through long years of close application, he has attained notable distinction and unqualified success. His long and useful life as one of the world's workers has been one of devotion, almost consecration, to his calling, and well does he merit a place of honor in a history touching upon the lives and deeds of those who have given the best of their powers and talents for the aiding and betterment of their kind. He is in the most significant sense humanity's friend, and to those familiar with his life there must come a feeling of gratitude in contemplation of his services and their beneficial results, during his practice in Clinton county, covering a period of thirty-five years, or since 1878.

Dr. Webster was born at Bradford, Yorkshire, England, May 11, 1829, and is therefore in his eighty-fifth year, being one of the oldest practicing physicians of this part of Indiana, or indeed of the entire state. He is a descendant of a sterling old Anglo-Saxon family, being well connected anti noted for intelligence and honesty of principles. He is a son of a carpenter and joiner, his parents being George Tetley and Martha (Gath) Webster, both natives of Yorkshire, where they grew to maturity, were educated and married, and spent their lives until their emigration to the United States in 1843, when the future doctor was fourteen years old, he being one of a familv of eight children. They settled in Shelbyville, Indiana, when that city was but a straggling frontier village, and there the parents spent the rest of their lives and reared their children, becoming very comfortable established through their industry.