Elkhart County, Indiana - Topographical and Industrial, 1881 (part 11 of 11)

Christian JBorntrager was born in Holmes county, Ohio, Oct. 25, 1842. His parents were Christian and Susanna Borntrager, natives of Pennsylvania. In 1860 he came to this county, where lie has since resided, farming and stock-raising being his occupation. He was married Dec. 24. 1863, to Miss Nancy A. Garber, of Wayne county, Ohio, a daughter of Jacob and Lucy Garber, natives of Pennsylvania. To them were born 4 children, viz. : Mary E., Daniel J., Andrew W. and Susanna. Mr. B. is possessor of a tine farm of 160 acres, sec. 22, valued at $10,000.

John JBazzard, farmer, sec. 27; P. O., Goshen; was born in jSTorthampton county, Penn., Dec. 15, 1811. His parents, Jacob and Elizabeth Buzzard, were natives also of Pennsylvania. He was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools. In 1850 he came to this county and settled in Harrison tp., where he still resides engaged in fanning and stock-raising. In May, 1838, he was married to Catharine Coffer, by whom he had 4 children; 3 are living. Mrs. B. died, and Mr. B. was again married iu 1847, to Anna Weldy. To them were born 5 children, of whom 4 are living. Mr. B. owns a farm of 240 acres in sec. 27, valued at $65 per acre.

Joseph Coiighman was the second white settler in Harrison tp. He was born in Old Virginia in 1797. His father was Jacob Coughman, and both his parents were also natives of Virginia. He was C[uite young when his father died, and his mother moved with him in 1804 to Montgomery county, O., where he was reared. For an education lie had access to the common country schools, they being held in log cabins erected in the woods or in deserted dwelling houses, which were furnished with slab seats, puncheon floor and a huge fire-place. These were the attractive features of the scliool-rooms in the days of Mr. Coughman's boyhood. Thus his early life was passed on the frontier in the Buckeye State. In 1834 he emigrated to this county, where he spent his maturer years in settling up and improving a new-born country. He was joined in marriage in 1824 to Elizabeth Brumbaugh, by whom he has had 7 children; of these, 4 are living.viz. : Eve (now Mrs. Israel Immel),

Susan (now Mrs. Joseph Ummel), William (who was married to Miss Sarah, dauo-hter of Joseph and Elizabeth Bartiraer), Christiana (now Mrs. Joseph Gulp). Mr. G. owns 120 acres of land four miles southwest of G-oshen. This was the fruit of Mr. Coughman's industry during the "' trying times " of pioneer life. Mr. G. is still living, at the advanced age of S3 vears. His wife died in the summer of 1879.

John S. Cripe. - Among the early settlers of this county that are yet living is Mr. John S. Cripe. He was born in Montgomerycounty, 0., April 29, 1829. The same year he was brought by his parencs to this county. They first settled in Elkhart tp. Here, amid the primeval wilderness of nature, he was reared. The Indians were his parents' neighbors. The wild animals were as numerous as the chickens are this day. His educational advantages were no more e.xtended tlian others of the times. The schools in his childhood years were held in the rudest sort of log buildings, wit h slab seats, puncheon floor and a large fire-place. The light that .shone upon their books was received through window lights of greased paper. There were but a few log cabins in Goshen. The roads were similar to the Indian trails; all the land was covered with a dense forest of trees. In 1859 Mr. Cripe moved into Harrison tp., where he owns 213 acres of land, worth $80 per acre. April 15, 1850, he was married to Miss Mary Shively, by whom he has had 11 children; of these, 6 are living, viz.: Isaac, Catharine (now Mrs. Abraham Weaver), Lewis, .John, Mary L. and Amanda E. Mrs. Cripe died March 15. 1873. and Mr. C. again married Jan. 1, 1871, Elizabeth Kensberger, by whom he had 3 children, viz. : Frances, Wm. IT. and Ellen.

Joseph, G. Culp was born in Mahoning county, 0., March 20, 1842, son of George and Magdalena Culp, the former a native of Pennsylvania, and the latter of Virginia. At the age of eight years he with his parents moved to this county. Here 'mid the forests of Elkhart county he was reared to manhood, and educated in the common schools of the -' woods," which were held in log cabins of the rudest sort. Jan. -i, 1861, he was married to Miss Mary, daughter of Jacob and Mary Wisler, natives of Pennsylvania. To this union were born 7 children; of these, 6 are living, viz.: Ellen, Emma, Amanda, Mahlon, Susanna and Mary A. Mr. Culp is the present Trustee of Harrison tp. He owns a farm of 90 acres, in sec. -30, valued at $75 per acre. He principally devotes his time to dealing in live-stock, buying and selling.

Jacob B. Dillman, farmer, was born in this county June 8, 1859, and is a sou of Reuben and !Nancy Dillman, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Ohio. He was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools. He was married June 13, ISSO, to Miss Belie Teeter, daughter of Andrew and Anna

Christian S. Farber. - Among the early settlers of Harrison . tp. was the subject of this sketch. He settled in this _tp. in 1836, where he still lives, engaged in farming and stock-raising. The date of his birth was Feb. 17, ISll. His parents were Christian S. (Sr.) and Mary Farber, father a native of Germany, and mother of ilaryland. The former emigrated to America in 1784, and settled ia Baltimore, Md., where he lived several years, working at the carpenter's trade, and in after years followed millwrighting. Mr. Farber, the subject of this sketch, moved to Greene county, Ohio, in 1833, from Berkeley county ,Va. where he was born. In 1836 he came and settled in this county, which thea resembled the great forests of Brazil or those of Asfa. Here he erected a lo^ cabin, moved into it, and began the laborious task of clearing and improving, and his labors were not in vain. He now owns a tarm of 240 acres, valued at $60 per acre, all this the fruits of his laborsin pioneer days. Mr. Farber has held various tp. offices,_ among which were Justice of the Peace for nine years, Tp. Appraiser, Assessor, Trustee, Clerk and Constable. Aug. 8, 1833, he was married to Miss Sarah McDowell, daughter of James and Jane McDowell, natives of Virginia. Mrs. Farber died May 4, 187.5, and Mr. F. again married the same year, Sophia Greenwolt, by whom he has had 2 children, viz.: Mary M. and Cornelius. Mr. F. is a member of the M. E. Church, and is a Eepnblican.

Eleazer FiYnvMi was born in this county Sept. 1, 1848. _ His parents are Samuel and Barbara Fryman, the former a native of Ohio, and the latter of Pennsylvania." Eleazer was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools of Elkhart county. He was married Nov. 14, 1869, to Elizabeth Steiner, daughter of Andrew and Henrietta Steiner, natives of the Keystone btate. To them was born one child, Samuel A. In politics Mr. Fryman is a Kepublican, and strongiv adheres to that noble faith.

John Hay, farmer, sec. 13; P. O., Goshen. Mr. Hay was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, Dec. 25, 1829. His parents were Michael A. and Christiana Hay, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Ohio. In 1857 John came to this county. July 25, 1852, he was married to Kachel Heasand, by whom he has had 8 children; 6 of these are living, viz.: Abraham B., Michael H., Amza P., Christiana, Joseph C. and Ida M. Mr. Hay owns 250 acres of land, worth $60 per acre.

Benjamin E. Hoffman, farmer, sec. 26; P. O., Goshen; was born in Lancaster county. Pa., Nov. 14, 1825, and is a son of Jacob Hoffman, who was also a native of Pennsylvania. Our subject came to tliis county in 1854, and had only a team, wagon and household goods. This"was the property he had in possession, and by unceasing labor he has become the possessor of a fine farm of 80 acres, worth $80 per acre. Dec. 14, 1850, he married Miss Margaret Coble, daughter of Abraham Coble, who was a native of Pennsyl- vania. To them were born 5 children, viz.: Saranel (who married Elizabeth Mover), Jacob F., John (who married Callie Yost), Aaron, Emma J. and Thomas (who is engaged in business in Oregon).

P. H. KuHz was born in Stark connty, Ohio, Jnne 18, 1S2S. His parents were Emily and Catharine Knrtz, the former a native of Germany and the latter of Pennsylvania. The father emigrated to America in ISIT, and settled in Pennsylvania. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm and educated in a common school. In 1850 he came to this connty, first settling in Jackson tp. In 1852 he moved to Koscinsko county, where he lived till 1855; then returned to this connty and settled in Harrison tp., where he still resides, engaged in farming and stock-raising. He makes a specialty of rearing the Jersey stock. Mr. Kurtz followed lumbering for 15 years and carpentering for some time. He is by occupation a millwright. Jan. 17, 1852, he was married to Mary Shively, daughter of Isaac and Snsan Shively, who were natives of Pennsylvania. To them were born 9 children; 7 are living, viz.: Lewis P., Catharine (now Mrs. Henry Sherman), Henry P., Louisa, Daniel, Leander and Ida. He owns 120 acres, in sec. 3, worth $9,000.

David Leer, a farmer, sec. 2; P. 0., Goshen; owns 80 acres, worth $60 per acre. Mr. Leer was born in Pennsylvania Feb. 5, 1809. His parents, Jacob and Mary Leer, were born in Pennsylvania. When young he was taken to. Montgomery county, 0., where he was reared to mature years. In 1831 he came to this county, being among the first in Harrison tp. He married in 1835 Elizabeth Stutzman, by whom he has 7 children; 4 are living, viz.: Jacob, Levi, Susan (now Mrs. Henry Books), and George.

TFr/i. Loivei\ deceased, was born in Berks connty, Pa., Nov. 1-1, 1823. His parents were John and Mary (Burks) Lower. "William went to Ohio in 1832, and in 1855 he moved to this county. He was married Dec. 2, 1349, to Sarah Funk, daughter of Henry and Susan Funk, who were natives of Ohio. Four children were born to them; of these only 1 is living, John Adams. Mr. Lower followed fanning till the time of his death, which occurred March 23, 1875. He had been a member of the Reformed Lutheran Church, and four years of that time filled the office of Deacon. He was a noble man.

Oliver McDonald, deceased, was born in Berkeley county, Va., in 1817. He was reared on a farm and educated in the common district schools. In 1832 he with his parents moved to Clarke connty, Ohio, where he lived till in 1841, when he came to this county. "While in Ohio, Dec. 31, 1839, he was married to Eliza C. Trimble, danghter of "Wm. and Marium Trimble, who were natives of Ohio. the former of Licking county, and the latter of Knox connty. To them were born 10 children; 7 of these are hving: Amanda (now Mrs. Abraham Sailor\ Sarah A. (now Mrs. Daniel Miller), Mary E. (now Mrs. Adam Zint), William (married to Louisa Weaver, and now resides in Michigan), Joseph T. (married to Anna Moyer i, John O. and Eliza E. Mr. McDonald resided in this county from 1841, engaged in farming till the date of his death, which was March 7, 1865, at the age of i8 years. lie had been a member of the M. E. Church for a number of years, and was a very estimable citizen.

William McDowell, a prominent farmer and stock-raiser on sec. 35; P. 0., Goshen. This gentleman was born in Greenbrier Co., W. Va., Aug. 21, 1827, and is a son of James and Jane (Boyd) McDowell, both natives of Ireland, and born in 1791 ; they were brought to America when about one year old, the family settling near Wilmington, Del.; from 1797 to 1835 they resided in Greenbrier Co., W. Ya. ; then they came to this tp. and settled on sec. 35, entering a half-section of land October 15, where they remained imtil death; the former died May 30, 1872, and the latter in April,

1866. They were early and honored pioneers in this county, and were the -parents of 8 children, the 6th of whom is the subject of this sketch, who was reared in the woods of frontier life. All that cheered the hearts of the settlers was the music of the woodman's ax ringing through the forest and the whoa, haw and gee given to their scanty team that the future might bring them a bountiful crop of wheat and corn. In this they were not disappointed, although they had to wait through many a long and tedious year of hard labor and exhausting toil.

The educational advantages which Mr. McDowell enjoyed in his younger days were, of course, limited to the meager subscription schools of log-house times, fully described elsewhere in this volume.

Mr. McD. has been married three times; first, to Elizabeth Alford, March 23, 184:8, by whom he had 1 child, now deceased. Mrs. McD. was born in W. Virginia, Feb. 26, 1830, a daughter of Hobert and Sarah (Cart) Alford, of German descent, and she died Feb. 28, 1849. Secondly, Feb. 5, 1851, Mr. McD. married Miss Elizabetli, daughter of Coonrod and Margaret (Fenton) Cart, by whom he had 5 children: Louisa, born Nov. 14, 1851, now Mrs. Jeremiah Bechtel; Minerva E., April 29, 1856; Harriet A., April 19, 1858; Harvey S., March 10, 1862; and Oliver E., April 20,

1867. The mother of these children was, also, a native of W. Virginia, where she was born Feb. 26, 1830; she died April 29, 1868. And. lastly, Jan. 11, 1870, Mr. McDowell married Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Charles and Mary (Carmish) Friend, the former a native of Ohio and the latter of Pennsjdvania, and both of German descent. They were among the early and honored pioneers of Jasper county, Ind. The father sacrificed his life in his country's cause, dying in 1864 at Kashville, Tenn., while serving in the 12th Ind. Cav, The mother died in Porter county, Ind., in 1871. The present Mrs. McD. was born in this State May 4, 1S4t, and is now the mother of 3 ciiildren. namely: Charles F., born Dec. 3, 1870; Frank "W., Dec. 21, 1872,' and Mary J., Jan. 11, 1874.

Mr. McDowell is one of the staid and influential citizens of Elkhart county, is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and his wife is a member of the M. E. Church. His father fought in the war of 1812, and his maternal grandfather, James Boyd, served six years in the Revolutionary war under Gen. "Washington.

Sam^l Neterer was born July 7, 1831, in I>lair county, Penn. His parents, Jeremiah and Margaret ISfeterer, were also natives of Pennsylvania. He was reared on a farm and educated in a common school. In ISOl he came to this county, where he still resides, engaged in farming, etc. He ov/ns 165 acres of land, valued at $80 per acre. He married Jan. IS, 1861, Elizabeth Eohrer, by whom he has had 6 children, viz.: Jeremiah, John, William H., Charles Wesley, Samuel and George. Mr. JSTeterer was drafted in the late war but procured a substitute at Indianapolis.

John Otto, farmer and sawyer, sec. 15; P. O., Goshen. Mr. Otto is a native of Center county, Penn., and was born Dec. 20, 1822. His parents, Daniel and Mary Otto, were also natives of that State. In 1840 he went to Ashland county, Ohio; in 1850 he moved to Stephenson county, 111., and in 1851 lie came to Elkhart county, where he still resides, engaged in the saw-mill business in connection with farming. June 5, 1S45, he married Polly Price, daughter of George Price. Five children were added to this union; of these, 3 are living, viz.: Marv M. (now Mrs. Henry Bechtel), Sophia (wife of David Bechtel)" and Daniel F. Mr. O. owns 51 acres of $70-an-acre laud.

Jonas Shively was born in Stark county, Ohio, July 14, 1824, and is a son of Isaac and Susanna Shively; was reared on a farm (and at work in a saw-mill) and educated in common schools. In 1850 he came to this county, where he still resides, engaged in farming and the saw-mill business. He erected a saw-mill in 1856, on sec. 26. In 1872 it was burned down, and rebuilt in 1872. In 1878 it was burned again, but was soon after rebuilt. Mr. Sliively owns a farm of 160 acres, in sec. 26. In August, 1852, he married Hester, daughter of John D. and Mary Miller, who were natives of Ohio. To them were born 8 children; 5 are living, viz.: Amanda, Reuben. Alonzo, Joseph and Ellen. Our subject's grandfather, Jacob Shively, was one of the most giant-like pieces of humanity found in the history of America. He was 7 feet 7' inches in height, and weighed over 400 pounds. His strength was equal to four men. He participated in the achievements for our National Independence.

Samuel Steiner was born in Wayne county, Ohio, June 1, 1835. His parents, John and Elizabeth Steiner, were natives of France, who emigrated to America in 1806 and settled in Wayne county, Ohio, where they lived till 1836, when they moved to Allen county.

There Samuel was reared and educated. In 1S56 he came to this county, where he still resides, following fanning and stock-raising. March 3. 1S59, he was married to Sarah Kercher, daughter of William and Elizabeth Kercher, who were natives of Pennsylvania Five children were the result of this union, viz.: James C., Abrara L., Eli W., Emma and Anna. Mr. Steiner's father served in the Franco-Prussian war under Napoleon Bonaparte. Mr. S. owns a farm of SO acres, valued at §5,600.

Daniel B. Stutzman, the first settler in Harrison tp., was born >;ov. 11, 1807. His parents were Daniel and Susan (Brumbaugh) Stutzman. He was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools, which were held in log cabins with slab seats, puncheon floor, o-reased-paper window lights, brick stove and stick chimney. In Ap^-il, 1832, he came to thjs county and settled near Goshen, and%he next October he moved into this tp., just previously erecting a small log cabin. The Indians were numerous, wild game was plentiful and the land uncleared. Mr. Stutzman was married Dec. 27, 1829, to Elizabeth Bashor, by whom he has had 7 children ; of tiiese 6 are living, viz.: Samuel B., Mary (the wife of John W. Miller), Catharine, Susanna (now wife of David II. Jones), Lucinda (now wife of Joseph Paulas), Daniel N. and George S. (deceased.) Mr. S. owns a farm of 200 acres, valued at $20,000. Mr. S. was engaged in tlie nursery business for about 30 years, keeping all the various kinds of fruits.

Andreto Teeter, farmer, sec. 3; P. 0., Goslien; was born m Montgomery county, Ohio, Sept. 5, 1S29. His parents, Abraham and Esther Teeter, were natives of Pennsylvania. He was. reared on a farm. His educational advantages were limited to the common schools of the day, which were held in rude log houses. In 1837 he came with his parents to this county. In 1810 his parents died, and he returned to his native home; he remained there till in 184:7, when he returned to this county, where he still resides, eno-aged in farming. He owns 156 acres of land, worth $80 per acre. Sept. 22, 1850, he was married to Elizabeth, daughter ot Adam W. and Katie Hartnian, who were natives of Ohio. To this marriage were born 8 children, 5 of whom are living, viz.: William C (who married Callie Basserman), Katie (now Mrs. Daniel Yost), Esther (now Mrs. Elias Schwartz), Isabella (now Mrs. Jacob B. Dillman) and Noah.

C M. Troyer, farmer, sec. 21; P. 0., Goshen; was born m Holmes county, Ohio, Aug. 22, 1833, and is a son of Michael and Mao-dalena Troyer, of Pennsylvania. He was reared on a tarm and educated in the common schools. In 1852 he came to Lagrange county, Ind., and in 1862 came to this county, where he has since resided, engaged in saw-milling. He was married Feb. 21:, 1861, to Elizabeth Yoder. and has had 8 children; of these, 7 are living, viz.: Wm. H., Martha J., Mary E., Samuel H., Lydia A., Milo M. and Idella M. John F. is deceased.

Simeon B. Truex. farmer, sec. 31; P. O., Wakarusa; was born in Morrow county, O., April 3, 1S39. His parents, William and Jane Truex, were natives of Bedford county, Penn. His father was born June 4, 1796, and his mother Nov. 4, 1799. He was educated in the common country schools. In August, 1865, he came to this county, where he still resides, following farming and stock-raising. Nov. 1, 1860, he married Mary Ann, daughter of Henry and Lydia Barger, natives of Harrison county, Ohio. To this union were born 8 children, of whom 5 are living, viz.: Geo. E.. Lydia J., Eva A., Oscar C. and Viola Z. Mr. Truex was born ISTov. S, 1843. His grandfather, Benjamin, fought in the war of 1813. Mr. and Mrs. Truex are both members of the Baptist Church, and Mr. T. is a Democrat.

JohiiH. Wkisler, farmer and stock dealer, sec. 19; P. O., Goshen; was born in Columbiana county, Ohio, Aug. 28, 1842. and is a son of Jacob and Mary (Hoover) "Whisler, natives of Pennsylvania. He came to this countv with bis parents at the age of five, and here he was reared and educated, Nov. 11, 1869, he married Christiana, daughter of John and Mary Weaver, natives of Pennsylvania. To them were born 3 children, viz.: JSToali, Jonas L. and Emma. Mr. W. owns 85 acres of land, in sec. 19, worth $70 per acre. He also owns a farm of 827 acres in the West. Mr. W. has devoted his time for the last eight years principally to live-stock dealing ; he also pays considerable attention to farming ; the season of 1879 he harvested 700 bushels of wheat from 26 acres.

Jackson township is bounded on the north by Elkhart, west by Union, south by Van Buren, in Kosciusko county, and on the east by Benton. This township may be divided into three sections, by the Elkhart river, and Turkey creek, viz. : eastern, middle and western. The eastern comprises Elkhart Prairie, where the first settlement in the township was made by Col. John Jackson, from whom it derives its name, who was sent here to disperse the Indians. Mr. Jackson being pleased with the face of the country, selected for his future home a large tract of land situated in what is now designated as sections 1 and 2. After succeeding in his undertaking, he returned home, and in January of 1829 came again to Indiana, bringing his family with him ; but finding that Messrs. Riggs and Simpson, with their families, had obtained possession of the site he offered them $50 for their rights, which they took and relinquished to him their rights they had acquired by virtue of their squatter's claim.

Immediately following Mr. Jackson's settlement came Mr. Thompson Weybright and Rippey, all of whom settled in the eastern division or on the east side of the river.

The next settlements were made in the middle division, or between the Elkhart river and Turkey creek, in the northern part of the township, called the " Barrens." We find settling here Mr Steward, John Rohrer, David Rodibaugh, Jonathan Wyland, Benjamin Bennett, Daniel Studebaker, Ingle, Allen Conley and Thomas Hall. About this time came Enoch Wright, Abshire Ilerriman and others. Of this number there are but two living; Benjamin Bennett and Frederick Herriman.

This division comprises more than two-thirds of the entire township, and in it we find the old Huntington road running northeast and southwest through the eastern part of the township and intersecting the State road in the extreme southern part of Elkliart township. This road was surveyed that a mail route might be had from Huntington to Chicago. The State road, also in this division pursues a direct southern course, after entering the township, to (999)

New Paris, and then makes a jog for about 20 rods to the west, when it assumes a southerh' direction for one-half mile, when it angles to the southwest. This was the first laid-out road in the township, and was surve\'ed bj' Mr. Crawford, Mr. Thomas Hall . piloting him from Logansport to Goshen.

The western division comprises nearly one-fourth of the township. Here we find Samuel Whitehead, Peter Whitehead, John Whitehead, Adam Whitehead, David Miller, John Miller and Coonrod Broombaugh, settling as early as 1S31 and '2. Of these all are living except two: Samuel Whitehead and Coonrod Broombaugh. This is known as the " Whitehead settlement."

We will, for convenience, make another division in the extreme southern part of the township. Between the State road and Turkey creek, extending north about one mile, is a section of country known as the '' Southern Barrens." Here we find settling at a very early date: Thomas Hall, Henry Mathews, Inks, John Mathews, Philip Mathews, Daniel Brown, David McGority, James Drake, Bennett, and the Clarks (two brothers and sister), James McGloud and others, all of whom are deceased, except John Mathews, James McCloud and Miss Clark. Tiie last-named is now in Ireland, where she has gone to seek her last resting-place. She has attained a good old age, and will soon pass away; but her name will remain in history for all time to come.

The roads in this township, with the exception of the State and Huntington, are accommodation roads, never haviug been surveyed; nor have there been petitions for the same. The early settlers of the township knowing that roads would be required, have left open to the public their fields, and by custom out of the mind of man, the roads have acquired their legal supremacy; and although they are rather arbitrary in direction, there can be found no better roads in the State, so far as travel is concerjied.

From good and reliable sources we have been informed that before Col. Jackson settled in this township Thomas Hall, a native of Ohio, settled on the Southern Barrens. But very little is known of Mr. Hall's location or of his burial place; but undoubtedly he peacefully slumbers beneath the soil that grows the wheat of which the bread is made that sustains the life of some younger man that has not as yet heard that there ever was such a personage as Thomas Hall.

rolling prairie land, while iu the southeastern, a section densely timbered and moderately undulating, with sufficient sand intermingled with the soil to obviate the sticky black mud found in Illinois; in the central part we find the barren lands, which undulate just enough to convex' the water from the laud. In the western part we find a repetition of those in the eastern and middle. In this township is found the highest eminence in the county, Buzzards Hill. From its summit can be seen the court-house in Goshen as well as every town in the county.

in ISoti Solomon's Greek Church was organized with Fredrick P. Loehr and Martin Weybriglit as ministers, and Jacob Arnold, John "Weybriglit, Joel Rush and Levi Wyland deacons. In the year I85S Daaiel Shively was chosen to the ministry, and in 1862, F. P. Loehr was ordained elder. After the Church was organized, the meetings were held in barns, school-liouses and private dwellings until 18(54, when the members built one of the largest meeting-houses in ^STortliern Indiana. This was at a time when volunteers for the war were exhausted and drafts became necessary; consequently commutation money in connection with the expense of building a house of worship taxed the members very heavily and was a source of some annoyance; but they paid the debt, and now the Church has no obligation which she is unable to meet. Just about the time the house was completed, in 186i, Martin Weybright was called to enjoy the reward of his labors upon earth, never having been permitted to worship in the new church; and early in 1865, F. P. Loehr moved to Michigan, leaving Daniel Shively alone in the ministry until June. 1866, when George W. Cripe was chosen minister.

In the latter part of the same year Peter Ilammon moved into the Church and remained about a year, when he moved away. In 1867 Joseph Hardman and Geo. Domer moved in, and in 1868 Lewis Muntz was chosen to the ministry. The same year Geo. W. Cripe moved into another district. In 1869 Jesse Calvert was received by letter of recommendation, and in 1871 Joseph Ilardman moved away and Joseph Ilartsough was received by letter of recommendation. In 1872 Abraham L. Neff was chosen to the ministry, and in 187-3 Geo. Domer moved away and David Yaunce moved into the district, and in 1876

Joseph Havtsough moved away, so that in 1S77 the ministers were Daniel Shively, Lonis Montz, A. L. Xeff and David Yaunce. Jan. 3, 1S7S, Daniel Sliively was ordained to the eldership and G. H. Warstler chosen to the ministry.

To the deacons already named there were added by choice in 1856 Daniel Shively, and soon after David Coy. In 18.58, as before stated, Daniel Shively was chosen to the ministry, and in 1860 Josiah Sensburger and Ashley Furgeson were chosen deacons. In 1861 Levi "VVyland moved away and Eli Myers was chosen, and in 1863 he departed tliis life; and in 1861 Josiah liensbiiroer and Ashley Furgeson moved away, and the same year Geo. W. Gripe, Elias Cline and Geo. Smith were chosen. In 1865 Geo. Smith moved away and Christian Harshman was received by letter of recommendation. In 1866 Geo. W. Cripe was chosen minister, and Daniel Forney moved into the district, and in 1867, John Arnold and Cyrus Lentz were chosen. In 1869 Jacob Arnold departed this life, and the same year Joseph Lantzenheiser and John Kobwevon moved into the district, and in 1870 Eli Harter also moved in. In 1872 Christian Harshman was disabled by a stroke of paralysis, and the same year Cyrus Leutz moved away. In 1873 Joel Rush died, and Joseph Lantzenheiser and Eli Harter moved away, and in 1871 Michael Treesti and J. H. Wars tier were chosen, which was the last choice held for Church servants, either ministers or deacons, until 1878, when Daniel Shively was ordained to the eldership and G. H.Warstler chosen to the ministry. In 1876 Cyrus Leutz was received back by letter of recommendation, making at present 10 deacons, as follows: John Weybright, Daniel Forney, Christian Harshman (disabled), John Arnold. David Coy, Elias Cline, John Robinson and Warstler.

By recapitulation we lind that in all 13 ministers and 21 deacons served in the Church since its organization, making a total of 33. Of these it will be seen that when the Church was organized there were two ministers, four were ordained and six received by letter of recommendation. Of deacons, four when organized, 12 chosen and five by letter of recommendation; there died of this number two ministers, viz.: Martin Weybright and Joseph Hardman; the latter died about the year 1875 in another arm of the Church, and three deacons, Eli Myers, Jacob Arnold and Joel Rush, five in all, leaving 28 as so many monnments of God's mercy.

Methodist Episcopal Ohubch

As early as 1830 we find Methodist missionary ministers in the township working in the Lord's vineyard. The names of these pioneer ministers have been forgotten. The first class was organized about 1S32 near Mr.MatthewIiippey's on the east side of the river and to this class Mr. and Mrs. liippey belong, with four other families. About 1850 this little band was transferred to Benton town, where they increased in numbers with a corresponding increase in wealth, until thej' considered themselves sufficiently able to build a church, which was completed about 1856, and since that time they have been a very prosperous people, doing an immense amount of good, holding successful revival meetings every winter, and thus adding to their number hundreds since the erection of their church. Of the old pioneers who belonged in 1S56, none are left e.x:cept Mr. and Mrs. Eippey, the others having been called into fields beyond the river, and they, too, soon must go, as the harvest is now ready and more reapers are required ; but they do not hesitate, as they have been faithful here and their reward is awaiting them there.

The next class organized in the township was at McCloud's in the extreme southern part of the town. At this place, as early as 1832, directly after the arrival of Mr. McCloud, we find Methodist gatherings at his house, which was built of logs, and stood at the south end of the house now owned by Thomas Clayton ; here, in harmony and unison, were met once a week the little band of sis or eight, and would consume an hour or so in communing with their God, and among them are remembered the names of James Mc- Cloud and wife, the two Mr. Clarks and sister.

After this class had increased in membership and wealth they determined on building a church, and the question ai-ose as to the most favorable place. At length they chose as a site the little village ot Milford, in Kosciusko county, and there they erected a church, an honor to the memory of the original little band of sis nr eight.

In thesoutiieastern part of the township, near Eenforour's, there was another small class and they built a church in ISTew Paris, the only one in the township, and to-day we find a large and appreciative audience in attendance every Sunday. ISTote the contrast of 50 years ago, when in barns, school-houses and private houses little bauds were gathered together to worship unmolested, and with the privilege of shouting if they desired. Not so to-day, but on the contrary we find those opposed to such demonstrations.

About 1S34 the first school held in the township was in an old lu£^ school-house about one-half mile north of New Paris. The school was opened in the winter and closed in the summer. The attendance was very slim on account of work necessary to be done in order to maintain their families through the winter, and there were but a few families living in the neighborhood, the most of them living three and four miles away. The teacher's name could not be ascertained. Suffice it to say, he was a man of rare ability and a representative of those times. Immediately following the erection of the first log structure for school purposes, similar structures were put up in different parts of the township; and as soon as convenient frame structures took their place, and thus was crowded out the last vestige of old pioneer days; and for all the old log school-houses of early times are despised, yet they were the more healthful, and in a measure, perhaps, the more convenient. Modern improvement again encroachinsr, we find frame school buildings giving place to the large and commodious brick edifices, and as the years roll on and each succeeding one brings its round of improvement, it is hard to say what next in the line of school edifices will be sought out; but let it rest where it now is, and the steady advance of civilization will in the next 50 years surpass what it has accomplished in the last half century.

Prior to May, 1832, Jackson township was a part of Kosciusko county, but in May, 1832, there was a survey made, and Jackson township was formed, and has retained its present boundary since. Before its organization there was a school commissioner appointed by the county commissioner. David Podibaugh received the appointment as such oflicer in the fall of 1831, and held that office until the organization of the township.

Joseph Cowan was elected the first trustee. He also held the office of assessor and justice. Frederick Herriman i'was elected constable, which office he held for 10 years. Joseph Cline succeeded him and remained in the office for quite a number of years. Mr. Cowan was also the first postmaster, which office he held for a great number of years.

The Mills

The first mill in the township was built as early as 1S31 by Mr. Ingle, near the line between Benton and Jackson, which furnished the greater part of the lumber for the early settlers. Directly after the building of this saw-mill Mr. Wyland erected a saw-mill in the northern part of the township, and some years later a steam saw-mill was built in the southern part. Of these three mills two are in active operation, and owned by David Rodibaugh and Lutz, Mr. E.. owning the one in the northern part and Lutz the one in the southern. Although these mills have been built for a great many years, yet they are in very good condition, and do a great deal of business. In 1833 Mr. Ingle put in a corn burr and ran a saw-mill and grist-mill witli the same water-power. Soon after this Mr. Wyland built a regular grist-mill and did custom work for a great many years; after a number of years he sold out to Mr. Bainter, who operated it for some time. Becoming at length tired with the business he sold out to David Kodibaugh & Clark. Mr. Clark expressing a desire to engage in some other undertaking, Mr. Rodibaugh bought out his half interest, giving to his son, L. E. Rodibaugh, one-third interest.

Mr. Landgraver, livery-keeper in New Paris, is the owner of a sawmill in that place which does a good business. There are also in this little village two wagon shops and one of the largest elevators in the county, all doing a paying business; Messrs. Johnson & Son are men of business capacity and know just how to build up a grain trade.

Messrs. Rodibaugh & Son have a woolen factory, which is the only one in the county and perhaps the largest of its kind in Northern Indiana. Mr. Neilson, the foreman, a Scotchman by birth, is a man who has devoted his whole life to the business, and is thoroughly competent to manage the monster undertaking. Everything in the factory is in the best possible working condition. There are two sets of machinery in operation and one spinner with 240 spindles, and another with 300 ; one loom with a weaving capacity of 240 yards per day. These looms are operated entirely by women of experience. The dyeing is all done by steam, and the chemicals used would start quite a drug-store. Over 200 styles were made last year, and this year will exceed those figures. Thirty years ago the factory building was but 20xJ:0, and now we find a building 60x100 feet, with all the modern improvements. As we look back upon the rapid growth of the business, we cannot help but think that it is in a great measure owing to the ability of its managers, and not entirely to the increase of population.

Fifty years ago Jackson township was a timbered wilderness, but by the strong arm and ingenuity of man the majestic oak and the valuable walnut have been laid low. Then comes the building period, and log houses spring up as if by magic, with their large and comfortable iire-places with the andiron and crane and the monster back-log; and around these sat the hardy lads and rosy lasses dressed in their linsey-woolseys, watching the sparks as they are drawn up the spacious chimney, and on either side sits the father and mother winding yarn, while the tallow dip glimmers in the wind blowing through the cracks between the logs, the driving storm beats through the clapboard roof In the morning the undaunted family, seeing the cold snow upon everything, don their heaviest clothing for the day's duties, again to gather around the inviting fire-place at night. Such was life during the otherwise long and dreary years of the early growth of the West.

New Paris

This village is located on sections 9 and 10 in Jackson township. It was laid out in 1838 by Isaac Abshire and Enoch Wright. The latter had settled here in 1829; the former did not come to the county until 1831; and both came from Preble county, Ohio. James R. McCord surveyed the town.

New Paris has several stores and the usual mechanics, and is particularly noted for the manufacture of wagons and carriages. The construction of the C, W. & M. railroad added much to the prosperity of the town, and was the cause of other improvements. A large saw-mill is cutting up thousands of logs every season. Johnson & Son purchase large quantities of wheat and other produce for shipment, and are also doing a banking business. The town has a fine brick school-building, and there is an average of a hundred'pupils attending the school.

The first settler in ISTew Paris was Frederick Harriman. He built the first house, a double log-cabin, on the lot where Abe Strohm now resides. He also erected a shop on the site now occupied by Strohrn's store, in which he manufactured spinning wheels.

The first dry-goods store was owned and conducted by David Parrot, a former citizen of Goshen. He removed West a number of years ago, and has grown wealthy.

The first hotel was built and kept by T. Divinnie, who was also the first village tailor. He was a mechanic of no mean pretension, and has long since passed to the other shore.

W. C. Matchett was the first physician of the town, and it is no disparagement to others who have resided here in the same capacity, to say that he was the peer of any of them.

The first divine of this place was the Rev. Mr. Hall, a pioneer preacher of the M. E. Church, who was sent here as a missionary, and preceded the Rev. G. M. Boyd.

The first postmaster was Jacob McFaddeu, and tradition says that the mail was kept in a bowl in the cupboard. Mr. McFadden removed to Kansas, where he became one of the first martyrs to that insatiate tyrant. Slavery. During the turbulent days of 1856, he was set upon by ruffians and murdered in his own house, which was reduced to ashes, his remains sharing the same fate, - all in consequence of iiis advocacy of free-soil principles.

Since the construction of the C, W. & M. railroad, JNew Paris has become quite a shipping point. Johnson & Son, the proprietors of the grain elevator and warehouse, have purchased grain and clover seed as follows, during the year ending Nov. 29, 1879: wheat, 183,614 bushels: corn, 25,585 bushels; oats, 12,822 bushels; clover seed, 7.701- bushels; paying out for the same, $225,824. The total disbursements of this firm, for the year ending as above stated, including general banking business, amounted to nearly half a million of dollars.

Among the business men of Elkhart county, none have had more signal success in the mercantile line than Mr. Abe Strohm, of jSTew Paris, the leading merchant of the village. Mr. Strohm was born in the township of Uxbridge. Upper Canada, on the 11th of March, 1839. When he was but two months old his parents moved to Indiana, where his mother died. He was taken to Canada again at the age of eight years, when he was left to make his own living. Many times young Strohni felt the pangs of hunger and cold in that icy country, but he bore his lot with that pluck and determination to make his way in the world that lias characterized his business life in later years. He again moved to Elkhart county in 1852, where alternately he was engaged in farming and teaching in Union township till 1870, when he became a resident of jSTew Paris. About this time he became partially blind, but still his courage did not forsake him. He clerked for a while, was frugal and careful, and in 1875 commenced business for himself with a wagon-load of goods. He fostered his business carefully, and now has one of the largest and most complete establishments in Northern Indiana. He sells dry goods, boots, shoes and groceries, the diflerent lines being kept in departments by themselves. He enjoys a very large trade, extending over a large territory. This short sketch would be incomplete in one of its most important particulars did we not refer to Mrs. Strohm, who has been a most excellent helpmeet to her husband, assisting in the management of the business with skill and tact. Mr. Strohm is a firm believer in the efficacy of printers' ink. and is a careful and judicious advertiser. He commenced life in the most abject poverty, and while nearly blind, has placed himself, while on the sunny-side of 40, in easy circumstances, with ample means for a rainy day. Verily, his life is a shining example for poor boys of the present day, who are possessed of pluck and honesty, to study and follow.

O-Nos-See

A large Pottawatomie village stood on what is now the farm of John E. Thompson, in Jackson tp., which was the residence of the chief 0-nox-see, or The Five Medals. In 1812 the Indians laid siege to Fort Wayne, and the savages were dispersed in September of that year by troops under General Harrison. One of the detachments of the troops, under Capt. Samuel Wells, of Kentucky, moved from Fort Wayne toward 0-nox-see's village, crossing the river at a point near the present village of Benton; but they found the village deserted. They set fire to the village, and also destroyed a large stock of provisions which the panic-stricken Indians had left behind them. Col. John Jackson, the father of Dr. A. C. Jackson, was a lieutenant in one of these companies. 0-nox-see and his followers retired to Detroit, and placed themselves under the protection of the British. In a letter dated " Great Crossings, Scott county, Kentucky, iSTov. 11, 1S12," the writer, CoL James Thompson, says: "I had the pleasure to assist in burning a very large Indian town on the Elkhart river 60 miles northwest of Fort Wayne; but the yellow rascals iiew in every direction before us.''