Elkhart County, Indiana - Topographical and Industrial, 1881 (part 7 of 11)

Abraham Livengood, deceased, was born in Somerset count}'. Pa., Jan. 14, 1806. He is a son of Peter and Barbara Livengood. At the age of nine years, he went with liis parents to Darke county, O. ; there he was reared to manhood; his education, v/hich was limited, was attained in tlie common district schools. In 1828 he came to this county, settling near Elkhart; soon afterward he entered the homestead that his family now occupies; being a lover of fruit he planted apple seeds, and by and by he had a very admirable orchard, yielding abundant crops of fruit, which were exceeding great luxuries in those early days. Elkhart city was " nowhere ; " then onlj' one small, rude log cabin marked the place. To the widow it seems as if the city had sprnng up by magic. Then the Indian light birch canoe shot down the river like a bird upon the wind. But few white settlers had eifected settlements. Mr. Livengood married April 27, 1826, Catharine Noifsinger, and had 7 children, 5 of whom are living, viz.: Isaac, Christopher, Ira, Ann and Joseph. Mrs. L. died Sept. 21, 1841, and Mr. L. again married Nov. 6, 1842, Mary Whitting, by whom he had 13 children; the following are the the names of the living : Charles E., Wm. F., Ellen, Eebecca and Alma, Albert, Frederick, Martha, and Edith. Mr. Livengood was a man of serious convictions, and was a lover of society. He aided in organizing the IJ. B. Society, whose church is located near tlie old homestead. This church was built principally by himself. He endeavored to the utmost of his ability to establish a religious society that would re- main after his departure, and in this he was not disappointed. His house was the home for the preacher and for the orphan. He lived to a good old age. His death occurred July T, 1S79, in his lith. year. He was a cordial supporter of the doctrines of Republicanism, yet not radical. In few words, he was a very estimable neighbor and citizen.

John Lusher. - This enterprising merchant is a native of Switzerland, and was born in November, 1840. His parents were John and Mary Lusher, also natives of Switzerland, who emigrated to Clyde, Ohio, in 1S50. Our subject there clerked three years for B. K. Bacon & Co. He came to LaPorte, Ind., in 1860, where he worked in the railroad shops for 10 years He then went to Salem Crossing, a few miles west of LaPorte, and engaged in the mercantile business nearly two years in the same building that Snyder now occupies. He came to Elkhart in 1873, and purchased the grocery store of Simon Stetney, which he continued and increased the capital. He added crockery and glassware to his business in 1875, and in the spring of 1876 added boots and shoes, and in the fall of the same j'ear, added dry goods and carpets. He employs four clerks besides himself and wife, and does a business of $50,000 annually. He was married first in 1859 to Miss Cynthia Garland, by whom he had 6 children; of tliese, 5 are living, viz.: Sarah, Mary, Emma, John and Charles. Mr. Lusher married a second wife in 187* in the person of Miss Rhoda Herrold, a native of Athens county, O., and a dn ighterof David Herrold, who came to Indiana several years age. Mr. L. is a worthy member of the Lutheran Church.

John 8. Maloon was born in jSTew Hampshire Oct. 37, 1827. and is a son o' Waldo and Abigail Maloon, also natives of jSTew Hampshire. H ; was brought up on a farm and educated in the common school. J Jr. Maloon engaged in farming for the most part until 1867, w]i( n he emigrated to Omaha, Neb. In 1871 he returned as far as Elkhart. He soon went back to Nebraska and located at Grand Island, where he remained for eight months. He has worked in the railroad shops of the L. S. & M. S. Co., for eight years, as locomotive carpenter. He was married in 1850 to Miss Tamar H. Webber, a native of Woodbury, Tt., who was born Nov. 26, 1830, a daughter of John C. Webber. They have had 5 children, viz. : Abbie and Charles, living; and Daniel, Sarah and John, deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Maloon have been connected with Baptist Churches for 26 years, and Mr. M. is at present one of the Deacons of the Elkhart Baptist Church.

Benj. 0. Manchester, of the firm of Kinzy & Manchester, grocers, was born in Mahoning Co., Ohio, Nov. 11, 1846. He was the son of Isaac and Eleanor (Wilson) Manchester. His father was a farmer. Benjamin began to attend school at four years of age, and pursued his studies 14 years, never missing a day during the terms of school. He attended the Mahoning Academy for five years. His parents designed to give him a legal education, and all his tuition had that end in view. When the family removed to the

West in 1864:, and Benjamin was IS years of age, his design toward the legal profession was frustrated. After his arrival in the West he taught school for six terms.

At 20 years of age he was married to Miss Mary Fisher, of St. Joseph county, and farmed one year thereafter. In 1870 he moved to Elkhart, and was emploj'ed as a clerk in the summer and taught school in the wintei'. hie was principal of the fourth-ward school one year, and of the fifth-ward school for three years. He resigned the latter position in February, 1ST9, in order to go into business with Mr. Kinzy. He was elected Conncilman from the fifth ward in 1876, and was re-elected in 1377. In May, 1880, he was elected City Clerk, holding that office at the present time. When he was teaching he studied law during the evenings with Judge Evarts, and was admitted to the Bar in 1S78, more for his own gratification at having accomplished the original design of his life than with the object of practicing law, as he himself confesses. He has been in business since February, 1879, and has achieved great success. His firm carries about $2,500 worth of goods, and does a business amounting to $2.5,000 a year. They have a bakery in connection with their store. Mr. Manchester belongs to the Evangelical Association, of which he is an active member. He is a member of the order of Chosen Friends, and was manager of the finances of the lodge in Elkhart for some time. He was also once a member of the order of United Workmen. He has a family of 3 children, Philip Earle, Joseph Melvin and Etta Belle. Philip E. is 12 years of age, and is a student in the high school.

Thoiiias Murr, proprietor Clifton House, Elkhart; was boru in the town of Milton, Northumberland Co., Pa., Oct. 22, 1840, and is a son of William Marr, deceased, who removed with his family to La Porte county, Ind., in 1845, settling on Stilwell Prairie. Our subject knows all about ciearino- land, and all other hard farm work, tor his father owned a tract of timbered land. At the sound of the war drum, in 1861, he stepped forward to assist Uncle Sam, and enlisted in Company C, 29th Ind. Vol. Inf. He was afterward p)romoted to the oflice of First Lieutenant, Co. E, of the same regiment, which position he held until the close of the war. He participated in the battles of Shiloh, Murfreesboro, Chickamauga, Liberty Gap, Dalton and others, sixteen in all. He had three horses shot dead from under him, and he himself escaped unhurt. After the war closed he engaged in farming for five years, and has since run livery business in Atlanta, Georgia, La Porte, Ind.. and Chicago. At Chicago he built the Dexter Park stables by the Union Stock Yards. In July, 1880, he came to Elkhart and took charge of the Clifton House and is doing a large business.

Jonathan R. Mather was born in Orange county, N. T., May 25, 1821. He is a son of Jonatlian Mather, a descendant of Increase Mather, who was a brother of Rev. Cotton Mather, of Massachusetts, whose fame was spread throughout the world about the year 1630. The maiden -name of the mother of the subject of this sketch was Anna Bishop. He was reared on a farm and received no Other educational advantages save those furnished by the common schools. He came to this connty in 1S59, and purchased the Bronson farm of 160 acres, two miles east of Elkhart, for §8,000, and in 1865 sold tliB same farm for §16,000. He then boutrht 45 acres near the corporation of Elichart, on the west side, and donated six acres of this to the L. S. & M. S. R. H., on which to erect their extensive shops. He has been interested in three additions to Elkhart, one of which he made wholly himself. He now resides in a magnificent brick dwelling' on the south side, on lot Ko. 1, Pleasant Point addition. Mr. Mather was married Jan. 13, 1849, to Miss Jane Swartwont. by whom he has liad 4 cliildren, 3 of whom are living, viz.: Sarah J., James S. and Carrie N. The name of the deceased was John C. Mr. and Mrs. Mather and all tJieir children are members of the Presbyterian Church.

Strafford Maxoii was born in Wyoming county (formerly Genesee), N. Y. He was tlie son of Jolm and Lydia (Sweet) Maxon They resided on a farm in jSfew York, and emigrated to Elkhart' Indiana, settling on a farm above the city, now occupied by Mr' Halsted. He was eight years old when the family came to Indiana* When he was 18 years of age he went to California, and re-, mained in the Golden State three years, saving while there $1,000 a year by his industry. He returned to the East with $4,000, and embarked in the mercantile business in Elkhart with this snug capital, which he continued for about 10 years. He then began the business of a wood- worker, and ran a planing-mill on the site of the Elkhart Iron Works. He sold that establishment in 1858, bought his presenc site, Elkhart avenue, and built his present mill thereon. He has continued the wood-working business there ever since. He manufactures sash, blinds, doors, brackets, window frames, sidings, flooring, moldings, etc. He has for some time been associated with P. J. Parmater, and besides their planing and wood-working mill, they carry on an extensive lumber yard on Jackson street. Mr. Maxon was married in 1854 to Miss Mary A. Stillraan. They have 3 children. He was a member of the Elkhart City Council for some time, and City Treasurer, and served several years as a member of the Board of Education, holding that position at the present time. In that capacity he has done much for the cause of education in Elkhart, taking a leading part in the perfection of its present school system. He is a member of the Masonic order, and is a Bei,)ublican in politics.

H. MoLachlan, proprietor of the Elkhart Harness Works, was born in York county, Canada, jSTov. 15, 1842, and was the son of Hugh McLachlan. He began to learn the harness-maker's trade when lie was 18 years old, at Holland, Wellington county, Canada. He at length emigrated to Michigan, and settled at Hillsdale, where he married Miss Yibillia Becket. He remained there two years, and removed to Elkhart in 1866. Here he ventured in the harness business, which he followed till 1869, when he engaged in the same business with David Slear; afterward he was in business alone; and Oct. 20, 1875, formed a partnership witli A. Emery, that gentleman retiring Oct. 20, 1877. Since that date Mr. McLachlan has continued business on his own account. He manufactures his own goods, and sells at wholesale and retail. He can-ies a stock valued at §5,000 to $6,000, and has a first-class harness establishment in every respect. His marital relation has given him 2 children, Hugh and Elizabeth. Mr. McLachlan is a member of the Masonic order, and a treasurer in Kane Lodge, and a member of the Chapter.

William M. McMillan, of the firm of E. Lacy & Co., meat market, Elkhart, was born in Centerville, St. Joseph county, Mich., June 8, 1853, and is a son of Ithuriel McMillan, who was brought by his parents from Ohio to Centerville in a very early day. He says they went 42 miles to mill. Wm. M. came to Elkhart in 1870, and has been engaged in butchering ever since, except 20 months, which time he spent in the employ of the L. S. & M. S. Railroad Company. He was married in April, 18S0, to Miss Martha Dunn.

Jacob Metzger, deceased, was a native of Germany, and was born Oct. 25, 1813. He crossed the wide Atlantic to the free soil" of America in 1834, and settled for the first and only time in this county, where he remained through life. He was married Oct. 2, 1843, to Mary A. Robinson, and had 8 children, viz. : Catharine (now Mrs. Abraham Luke), S. A. (now Mrs. Albert Milton), John, Marv A. (now Mrs. Jacob Leedy), Jacob, Rosella (now Mrs. Frederick Mast), William P. and Lillie Bell. In 1850 he started with his family for the "gold mines" of California, and after a long and toilsome journey across the "sandy plains" they reached their destination; they remained there about three years, then returned, coming by the Isthmus. He died Dec. 9, 187'.J, at the advanced . age of 66 years. He was a consistent member of the German Baptist Church for several years. He left to his family a farm of 178 acres, in sec. 24, worth $60 per acre, with pleasant surroundings.

E . D. Miller^ merchant of northeast Elkhart, was born at Selin's Grove, Pa., Feb. 17, 1855. He was the son of Isaac Hnd Eosetta (Lenhart) Miller. He remained at home till he was 17 years of age. when he began to learn the machinist's trade in the citj' of Harrisburg, where he remained till he was 20. At that age the spirit of adventure seized him. and together with Mr. Charley Camp, a youns: lawyer, he embarked in the sale of chromos, traveling in that business throughout sevsjral of the Eastern and Wes^tern States and the Canadas. They made a wholesale business of it, and when they stopped in town, would employ a number of lads to canvass the place, remaining themselves at the hotel to direct the business. In this way they would sometimes make as much as 850 a day. At last Mr. Miller reached Elkhart, where he concluded to settle down. At first he was employed with Fish & Camp, iu the insurance business, and remained with them one year. He then went into the office of M. F. & G. F. Sliiiey, and worked at insurance, and studied hxw, and also handled financial matters to some extent for F. A. Mussey. In 1879 he bought out a general stock of groceries, etc., in northeast Elkhart, and has continued business there ever since. He has the only store in that part of the city, and is doing a thriving business. On July 22, 18S0, he was married to Miss Maria Knevels, who was a teacher in the Elkhart high school. Mr. Miller is yet a young man, has jnade good progress in the business of life, and has a prosperous future to hope for.

Fredericli W. Miller, the Postmaster of Elkhart, is a native of Cass county, Mich; was born Feb. 13, 1S37. His parents were Frederick W. and Belinda (Colby) Miller, the former a native of New Jersey, and the latter of I-Tew York. They came to Michigan in 1S35, when the country was wild, and settlers few. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm, and educated at Hillsdale (Mich.) College. He located in Elkhart in 1866, and engaged in the drug business until ISTi. He was appointed Postmaster. in 1875, by President Grant, and re-commissioned by President Hayes. He tilled the office of City Ti-easurer of Elkhart for two terms to the entire satisfaction of his many constituents. In 1869, he was united in marriage with Miss Helen Bird, by whom he has 1 child, Frank B. Mrs. Miller is a worthy member of the Presbyterian Church.

Daniel Mitchel is a native of Sn^'der county. Pa., and was born Sept. 6, 1818. His parents, John and Sarah Mitchel, were also natives of Pennsylvania. Mr. Mitchel was reared on a farm and in a blacksmith shop. His father was a blacksmith by trade, and at an early age he became quite expert in wielding the sledge and hammer; education limited; came to this county in 1845; followed his trade here for a number of years, bnt his attention was directed principally to farming. In August, 1837, he married Hannah Aurand, by whom he had 6 children; 5 of these are living, viz.: John, Jesse, Elizabeth (now Mrs. Henry Shntley), Henry J. and TVm. W. John and Martin L. were both soldiers in the late war. The latter fought in the battle at Chattanooga, where he received the fatal shot, and soon after expired on the scene of action; thus met death on the battle-field" in the defense of his countr}'. In politics Mr. Mitchel votes the way for which his son shot, bled and died.

Eno-'i M. Myers was born in Ashland count3', Ohio, Jan. 4, 1852, and is a son of Andrew and Mary Myers, natives of Pennsylvania. He was brought up on a farm and educated in the common schools. He came with his parents to this county in 1855. They resided, however, for 12 years in Cass county, Mich., and in 1S76 he removed to Elkhart. He kept dairy for two years, when he engaged in the butchering business. He has a large and steadily increasing trade. His shop is situated on Harrison street. Sept. 7, 1876, he married Miss Elizabeth Patrick, by whom he has 1

Jonas H. Myers, a leadina: as:riculturist of this county, was born in Montgomery county. May 26, 1824; six years later his parents. Joseph and Mary C Myers, located in Preble county, where the subject of the slcetch received his preliminary education, remaining until his 16tli year, when his attention was attracted to the fertility and resources of Indiana, bj glowing accounts from those conversant with the facts, and hither he directed his footsteps; and after the usual trip made in the usual manner of piooneer days, he settled in Concord tp., near the present flourishing city of Elkhart; one year later finds him hard at work as an apprentice to a blacksmith, having a small shop at Goshen, and transacting a comparatively light business in general blacksmithing, repairing and horse-shoeina:; after a service of some IS months in this vigorous field of action he departed for Elkhart, where he continued in the same vocation for about two years; thence in 1845 he went to "Vermont, Fulton county, 111., thence to Ellisville, same county, the year following, where he worked as a journeyman until the war with Mexico; in the interim he made a visit to Nanvoo, liancock county. 111., where he had the pleasure of looking upon the great Mormon temple, and listening to a sermon from that distinguished apostle, the late Brigham Young; after a brief visit to the spot made memorable by Mormon settlement, lie proceeded to Lewistown, where he enlisted in the United States service, for the suppression of the uprising in the Mexican frontier, a member of Co. K, -tth 111. Vol. Inf.; he served under the noted commanders Gen. Wintield Scott, the gallant Col. E. D. Baker and Capt. L. W. Ross; he remained in the service one year, and participated in many of the well-kuown battles of the war, as Vera Crnz, Cerro Gordo, etc., for three months, in common with other soldiers appointed for this purpose. He did excellent duty as a hospital nurse at Jalapa Hospital for a period. Shortly after the expiration of hospital service, he was honorably dischai-ged, and returning to his peaceful pursuits of private life, he resumed at Elkhart his old-time occupation, until the acquirement of sufficient means wherewith to enter into business, when he settled at Monmouth, 111., where he formed a copartnership in the drug trade with his brother. Dr. John "W. Mj-ers. However, it would appear that Elkhart was a center of attraction, for at the end of a year's experience in compounding prescriptions for suffering humanity, we find him once more a. resident of Elkhart, where he opened out as a cabinet-maker and dealer in clothing. Like many energetic business men, Mr. Myers was somewhat migratory in his business relations, for shortly afterward he severed his business connections in this commercial branch and settled upon a farm south of this city, where he resides at the present writing, owning 216 acres of land.

Feb. 22, lS2i, he was united in marriage with Isabella Sandford, who was born April 22, 18^)5, in jSTew York; to whom were born Y children; of these 6 are living, viz.: Robert, William, Louisa, Jacob E., i\.nna and Catharine.

At the age of 22 Mr, Myers became a teacher of a district school in this tp., familiarly called the '"Mock school-house." This was the first school-house built in this district, and this school was also the first school taught in this district.

In going west Mr. M. made the trip by steamer on the St. Joe river from Niles to St. Joseph, and thence across Lake Michigan by steamer. This was the only mode of conveyance at this early day save the stage-coach, the inseparable harbinger of advancing civilization. Arriving at Chicago, the " Garden City" of the day, he sojourned for a short time at the old "Lake House," so graphically described in the pioneer history of the " City by the Lakes."

From the great future metropolis, boasting but a few thousand inliabitants and a few awkwardh' constructed dwellings, he made a laborious journey by stage and wagon conveyance, to Vermont, III., via Joliet and Peoria, then the principal cities of the now noted "Prairie State."

But little more remains to be told beyond the fact that Mr. Mj'ers is a man of the people, reared amid pioneer infinences. He received little or no aid wliatever in a financial point of view, and his subseqirent successful business and agricultural career were founded upon tlie simple yet worthy rule of economy, in force among sturdy inhabitants, who were sterling actors amid the scenes of early Western life.

William A. JYeal, M. Z>., was born;;in Elkhart Jan. 29, 1836. His father. Heni-y ISTeal, still residing in Elkhart, is one of the pioneers of the count3\ Our subject is the oldest native of this city now residing here. He graduated at Rush Medical College in Chicago, in 1857. He located in New London, Iowa, the same year, where he practiced until 1861, when he entered the army as Assistant Surgeon in the 1st Missouri Engineer Corps. He had charge of Post Hospital at Johnson, Tenn., during the summer of '61, and was with Sherman on his noted march to the sea. In the fall of 1865 he located in the town of Dayton, Berrien Co., Mich., where he practiced medicine for 1-1 years. In 1879 he located again in his native town, and is building up a good practice. He was married May 29, 1857, to Miss Elizabeth J., daughter of Rev. E. H. Lamb, deceased and they have had 4 children, 3 living, Eva, William H. and Harry. The deceased's name was Frank.

James Newman was born in Luzerne county. Pa., Aug. 7, 1827, and is a son of John and Anna Newman, also natives of Pennsylvania. His parents removed to Ohio when he was but five years old. He was there brought up on a farm, and educated in the common school in the town of Clyde. After he obtained his majority he worked on a farm several years. In 1855, when performing his duty as Deputy Sheriff, in attempting to arrest a ruflSan, he was stabbed in the neck, which came near ending his days, and which crippled him for life. He came to the vicinity of Coldwater. Mich., in 1S63, and to Elkhart county in 1S65. He farmed until 1870. when he engaged in the livery business in Elkhart, which he still follows, and has a good patronage. He was married in June, 1S54, to Miss Adelma Stone, by whom he has had 13 children; of these, 9 are living, viz. : Charles, Fred, Emma, Adelma, Jay. Dewey, Ernest, Arthur and Maud.

John J. Newman, a pioneer paper-manufacturer of the West, was born in Brown county. Ohio, in 1826. He was the son of Joseph and Kancy i^Jolley i Newman. His family resided on a farm about five miles from Georgetown, Ohio; his father died when Mr. iSTewraan was nine years of age. When he was 12 he went to Cincinnati with his mother, and was apprenticed to the carpenter's trade. He worked as a carpenter nine years, after which he began business for himself, and continued it till 1850; he then removed to Middletown, Ohio, where he engaged in millwrighting, contracting, paper-making and other business, bj' which he made considerable ]noney, but met with some misfortune. About six years ago he came to Elkhart for the purpose of building a writing-paper mill for Erwin & Upp, and remained there as millwright some time after it was conspleted. He built the Cook & Beardsley mill, superintended the building of the tissue-paper mill, and the combination-board mill, and placed the machinery in the straw-board mill. This latter establishment he is now managing. He has done probably more than any other man in Elkhart toward the practical work of establishing the important paper-mill interest here. Mr. Newman was married in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Miss Elizabeth Devall. They have 3 living children, 2 of whom are married; one residing in Middletown, Ohio, and the other in Elkhart, the latter being foreman of tlie box factory liere. The youngest is at home. Mr. Newman was ouce Cjuite active in the politics of Ohio. He was delegate to the State convention that nominated John Brough for Governor of Ohio, in opposition to Vallandigham, and participated heartily in that memorable campaign. He was a member of the City Council of Middletown, Ohio, four years, and was solicited to stand as a candidate for Councilman of Elkhart, but declined. At Middletown he was Chief of the Fire Department for several years. Mr. Newman is a Republican in politics, having adhered to that party since its formation.

Thomas Oliver, grocer. Main street, is a native of Scotland, andcame to America with his parents in 1840. They landed in New York and came West to Misliawaka, this State. Thomas was then only two years old. When he was quite young his father died. During boyhood he was obliged to labor arduously for his support, and at 21 he was out of employment. In 1862 he enlisted in the army, going out with a Kansas regiment. He had resided in

Missouri since 1S59, and the jayhawkers had given hira a Union sentinient. He spent three years in the army and was most of the time wesc of the Mississippi. "When lie left the service he returned to Mishawaka, and in 1S70 went to Watseka, 111., and engaged in the hardware and agricultural implement trade. After three and a half years in this business he sold out, and in April, 1S75, embarked in the grocery trade, and has since continued this business. He is a Mason, and has passed through all the chairs in the Odd Fellows order. He is a representative grocer in Elkhart.

Benjamin Page was born in Union county, Pa., Aug. 3, 1835, and is a son of Abram and Mary M. Page, who were natives of Pennsjdvania. His early life was passed on a farm, and he was educated in a common school. In 1855 his father and family moved to Berrien county, Mich., and in 1860 to St. Joseph county. In the spring of 1880 Mi-. Page and his family came to this county. He was married Aug. 25, 1860, to Susan Scott, and they have had 3 children, viz.: Mariett, Lillie and George P. Mr. Page's grandfather (Page) participated in the achievements for our national independence. Pie owns a farm of 172 acres, one mile south of Elkhart. He has been a member of the Masonic order for 10 years, aud a Democrat all his life.

Stephen Parlcer, mechanic, was born in the province of Lower Canada, district of Montreal, county of Sheiford, township of Stakeley, June 11, 1822, the son of Nathaniel Parker, who emigrated from Brattleboro, Vt., in 1800, with his father, Capt. Caleb Parkei', of Pevolutionary fame, who was a descendant of Thomas Parker, a native of England, who came over to this country about 1631: in the ship '- Susan and Ellen," settling first at Lynn, Mass., and afterward at Reading. Stephen's mother's maiden name was Persis Stone, daughter of Purchase Stone, Esq., of Wayland, Mass., whose ancestry came from Ireland about 1645, as nearly as can be learned, and settled in the vicinity of Wayland. The subject of this sketch was educated in the common schools of Canada, and brought up on a farm; when he was 15 years of age he enlisted in the war of the " Papineau Rebellion," under Capt. Shepard Parker, his uncle, but his father was unwilling to spare him, as he had two other sons already in that war; at 21 he left home and worked at manufacturing matches two years; ISlo-'Y he worked on a farm in Massachusetts, and then one year at carpentering and in a factory; during the season of 1848 he worked for his father, in Canada, then bought a farm and followed agriculture on his own account.

March 12, 1S51, he married Miss Mary Jane, a native of Canada and daughter of Gorham Page, Esq., who was taken to that country at the age of four years by his father, settling in the township of Bolton ; Mrs. Parker's mother was the first white female child born in Stanstead tp., Can. In the spring of 1853 Mr. P. sold out in Canada and removed to St. Johnsbury, Vt., where he worked at the manufacturing of threshing-machines three years, when he rented a part of tlie factory and commenced business for himself; at the end of a year he sold out and worked in the locomotive and repair shops of the Conn. & Passussmasick Rivers K. R. Go. until 1858, when he returned to Canada and engaged in the manufacture of carriages and wagons until 1867, when he again sold out and came to Elkhart, arriving Feb. 15, 1868, since which date he has spent the most of his time in carriage and wagon work; was abcui five years in the employ of Allen & Worrey, Smith & Myers, and Ball & Sage, serving as superintendent for all these companies in the same wagon- works. He is now employed on the general wood-works in the locomotive department of the L. S. & M. S. K. E. shops in Elkhart.

In the winter of lSi9, Mr. Parker was a charter member of the Sons of Temperance of the Alpine Division, No. 67, in Chester, Mass.; was charter member of Beaver Lodge, I. O. G. T., in 1863, in Magog Province, Canada; in the spring of 1871 he was elected a member of the City Council of Elkiiart on the Temperance Republican ticket, and served one term. In the fall of 1875 he united with the M. E. Church and was soon afterward appointed Steward; in the spring of 1877 was appointed Class-leader, by Rev. F. T. Simpson, then preacher in charge.

Philo J. Parmater, of the firm of Maxon & Parmater, lumberdealers and wood-workers, was born in Niagara county, N. Y. , March 15, 1833. He was the son of Aaron and Louisa (Winegar) Parmater. The family, when Philo was a small boy, removed to Michigan, settling on a farm in Farmington, Oakland county, which they improved from its state of primeval forest land. They remained there till 1815, when they took up their residence in YpsiJanti. After five years Mr. Parmater came to Elkhart, and remained here till his departure for California, which occurred in 1853. He made the journey overland, and engaged in mining in Colorado county. He remained in California 15 years, and returned in 1867 with considerable capital in his possession. He has spent his time in Elkhart nearly ever since. He went into the woodworking and lumber business with Mr. Maxon some time since, and holds that business relation at the present time. He was married some years ago to Miss Ellen Schutt, daughter of J. V. O. Schutt.

Erastus A. Perkins, farmer, sec. 15; P. O., Elkhart; was born in Lower Canada Oct. 8, 1818. His parents were David and Judah Perkins, the former a native of Vermont, and the latter of New Hampshire. In 1833 the subject of this sketch went to Vermont, and in 1852 came to this county. He was married Nov. 21, 1812, to Nancy A. Wadley, by whom he had 5 children; of these only 1 is living, Emma G. She is a graduate of Oberlin (0.) College; she is also a telegraph operator, and operated on the L. S. & M. S. railroad for about two years, and on the Grand Trunk railroad for six months. Some time ago she spent two yeai'S in California. Mr. Perkins is a farmer by occupation; he owns a farm of 124 acres one-half of a mile south of Elkhart, worth $110 per acre.

Henry and James Phllliher, of the cooperino- firm of Philliber Bros., were born in Freeport, Armstrong Co., Pa., the former March 6, lSi3, and the latter Oct. 13, ISil. The family removed to Davenport, Iowa, in 1855. Their father being a cooper, the sous learned the trade at an early age. In 1857 they all came to Niles, Mich., w-here the father established a coopei'ing business, his sons continuing to work with him. In 1863 James enlisted in the United States navy, and Henry, in ]S6i, enlisted in the Board of Trade battery. During his 13 months of service in the Tennessee fleet J ames was commissioned as Master's Mate. Henry served his country IS months, and was in the army of the Cumberland during the battles around Chattanooga. After spending several years as journeymen coopers, the brothei's embarked in the business on their own account, in Elkhart, an enterprise which they have prosecuted since with constantly increasing success. Since their establishment here they have erected a large building and attachments on Water street, and are now prosecuting an extensive business. They own the land on which the factory and Henry Philliber's residence stands. They are the principal coopers in Elkhart, and fnrnish all the barrels used by the Sage Bros, and by the Voisinets. They are now making over 40,000 barrels a year, and have a capacity for 80,000 per annum. Only Henry Philliber is married. His matrimonial alliance was made with Miss Carrie Shelden, Sept. 7, 1863. They have 5 children.

Frank M. Prvmley was born in Elkhart Nov. 9, lS-±7, and is a son of Jacob and Sarah Primley, who came to this county about 1845. Mr. Primley was brought up and educated in Elkhart. At the age of 18 he learned the tinner's trade, which he followed until 1873, when he opened a hardware store on Main street. He still runs the hardware business with success, and also has a tin-shop in connection witli it. He is a jolly old bachelor.

JuGoh Primley, deceased, was born in Pennsylvania May 18, 1814; was reared on a farm, and for several years after he was grown he followed tiie vocation of a farmer. He then went to Louisville, Ky ., and learned the cabinet-making trade. About 1840 he went to Mercer connty, Ohio, where he married Miss Sarah Ilitchmer, a native of Warren county, 0. They had 10 children, of whom 6 are living: Franklin M., Amanda E., Jonathan P., Hamilton, Worthington and Sherman. He came to Elkhart in 1845, and worked at his trade for several years, when he engaged in the grocery bnsiness some time, and afterward engaged in the sale of dry goods for a period. He died May 16, 1875, a good, moral man.

Jonathan P. Primley, druggist, was born in Elhart in Dec, 1862. His father was Jacob Primley, who settled in Elkhart at an early day, and began his career here as a cabinet-maker, and finally becam.e a dry-goods merchant. He reared a family of 4 sons and 1 daughter, all of whom still reside in Elkhart. The elder Primley died in 1875. The subject of this sketch attended the schools of Elkhart and began his business life as clerk for C. E. Potts & Co.,

[Richmond, Ind. He remained with them two years and a half, when he returned to Elkhart and was employed as clerk in the drna; store of Joseph Rollin. He afterward was a clerk in the store of H. C. Dodo:e. He then bought Mr. Rollin's drug store, which was located in a flue brick buildino; on Main street, near the depot, where he has carried on the drug business till the present time, He has one of the best locations, and the finest-appointed, well stocked drug stores in Elkhart, and is doing a lucrative business. He was married in 1S79 to Miss Phoebe Simonton, of Elkhart. Mr. Primley is still a young man, and his present leading position among the business men of Elkliart is an example of what energy, industry and correct business habits can accomplish, and ranks him among the i-epreseutative men of Elkhart city and county.

Proctor. - The Proctor family of Elkhart is one of the most prominent in this county. They are noted for their longevity. John Proctor, father of the well-known business man and capitalist, William Proctor, was born in 1791, and is consequently S9 years of age; yet he is still quite vigorous, and can talk fluently of the early times when the nation was yet in its youth. Mr. Proctor's father came from England at a very early day. His son thinks he was brought over when a boy. and his labor sold to a Virginian for the purpose of replacing his passage money. The boy's father and mother were dead before he left England. He was bound out as an apprentice to a shoemaker in some town near Norfolk, Va. He grew to be a man and was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, and was in many of the battles tliroughont the seven years' contest. He was at the battle of St(jny Point, under Gen. Wayne; and was at the siege of Yorktown. After the war closed he traveled over the Alleghany mountains and Blue Pidge chain to West Virginia, and began life as a fai'mer, locating on the Kanawha river. In process of time he engaged in milling, and constructed boats, and in coopering, and shipped the product down the river to market. He continued to run the mills aftei' John had reached his majority, and then John managed the mills, while his father worked tlie farm. .John also worked at coopering, and boated on the Kanawha. He speaks of the great amount of game that abounded in that country in the early days, such as elk, deer and wild turkeys. The employment of the people was largely fishing and hunting. He attended school in a log cabin, with slab stools'or benches. It was amid such primitive and uncouth surroundings that Washington, Madison, Jefferson, and Randolph rose to the eminence of the greatest of our earlier statesmen, and contending with such circumstances, gave endurance and energy to such pioneers as Mr. Proctor. The teachers of schools in that day and section were generally soldiers crippled in the Revolutionary war, who were thus pensioned on the subscription of the people. There were here and there planters of considerable importance, who lived in better style than the majority, and had slaves to perform their labor and home service. Mr. Proctor's mother's familv were natives of Virginia, and her maiden name was Elizabeth Hnddleson. Jolm was married in 1812 to Miss Kebecca Spangler, a lady of German descent. In 1816 be resolved to go to Indiana. Being a boatman, lie determined to make the voyage toward his future home in a dug-out. Accordingly he procured a large tree trunk, fashioned his primitive transport, placed his family, his household goods and " gods" therein, and embarked on the gliding Kanawha. Floating down that stream and out upon the Ohio, the voyaging family at length reached Cincinnati. From that cit}' they made the journey to Brookville, Franklin county, lud., by wagon. As soem as he could get settled he began to work at coopering, blacksmithing, and caipentering, and labored hard at various employments for a dollar per day. As time passed he bought 80 acres of land in Randolph county (then Wayne). Buyins at second hand he had to pay §4 an acre instead of the Government price. His farm was on the boundary of the Indian lands, and Mr. Proctor gives them the honorable name of excellent neighbors and hijnest men, living in the garden of Eden, without a care, and unburdened by the labor and exigencies of civilized life, and untainted by its sophistries and fictions and dishonesties. Pie now asserts with earnestness that he had rather have one of those Indians than 20 Christians; that money by the bagful was perfectly safe in their hands, and lost property of any kind once found by them would be faithfully restored. They, without charge, assisted him to erect his first cabin. Eventually Mr. Proctor sold his original farm, and bought land in Henry county, which he afterward traded for a mill on Buck creek.

This brings us to the time when William Proctor was quite a lad. He was born in Randolph county in 1823. When he was four years old he removed with his parents to Henry county, and remained there till 1835, when the family came to Elkhart county. He lived upon the farm till he was 20, when he went to La Porte county and engaged in saw-milling, carpentering and farming till fall. The following winter he taught school eight miles south of Goshen. After his three months' term closed he began a course of study at Ontario Seminary, Lagran.ge county, and remained there nearly three years, working on farms during haying and harvesting. He spent the winter of 1846 in Texas. In the spring he returned to Indiana and bought 120 acres of land on St. Joseph river. He cleared 100 acres, built a barn, and in 1849 was married to Miss Frances Downing, daughter of Col. Downing.

In the spring of 1850 Mr. Proctor went across the plains to California, driving a team. lie remained there till the fall of 1851, mining and trading the while. When he returned he resumed life on his farm, and occupied it till 1856, when he located in Elkhart and engaged in the mercantile business, which, while he was occupied with it, embraced dry goods, hardware, clothing, groceries, etc. He also has constructed some of the finest buildings in Elkhart. He built the Fourth and Fifth ward school-houses, Odd Fellows' block. Main street, and several other structures. In 1869 he was

In 1873, in connection with John W. and Edwin Irwin, he took the job of constructing the livdraulic works of Oonstantine, Midi., a work that was successfu!!v accomplished. Since that time he has busied himselt mosth' with farming. He has 150 acres of fine land within the cit}' limits. He was City Marshal of Elkhart for two years, namely in lS72-'3. He served one year as Trustee of Washington tp. Mr. Proctor's domestic relations have produced its mingled joj'S and sorrows. He has lost 4 children by death, and 3 are now living. His son, C. M. Proctor, is now a civil engineer, with an oiSce in Elkhart. Another son, L. M. Proctor, is attending school at ISTotre Dame. Ella May is but li years of age, and is attending school. The deceased children wero named respectively, Emma, Florence, Homer and Marian. Mr. Proctor is a member of the Odd Fellows' association.

1822, and is a son of George and Polly Puterbaugh, natives of Franklin county, Penn. He was reared on a farm and educated in a common school. He came to this county in January, 1849, and settled on a piece of woodland in Concord tp. He has pursued the avocation of a farmer to the present time. May 25, 1842, he married Miss Mary Lloyd, who was born Feb. 4, 1822. They have 5 children, viz.: John, Mary A., Amza H., David, Orvil T. His land was given to him by his father. He also owns a farm in Kosciusko county, Ind. Mr. P.'s grandmother lived to the advanced age of 94 years.

1823, and is a son of George and Mary Paterbuagh, natives of Lancaster county. Pa. He was i-eared on a farm and educated in the common schools. He taught school for several years in Ohio, and then learned photography with one Mr. Baker, of Tippecanoe, Ohio. He followed this for one year, and then, in 1849, came to this county and taught a school the following winter. His father gave him 160 acres of timber land (including 2 acres of cleared land), which was a part of an Indian reservation, and had formerly been occupied by a person who, learning that it belonged to the Indians, abandoned it. There were no roads through this land at that time, and he was obliged to cut his way to his land. He was married May 29, 1851, to Sarah A. Patterson, daughter of William and Nancy Patterson. She was born in Fayette county, Ind., March 16, 1827. They have 5 children, viz.: William F., George L.. Harriet A., Elizabeth F. and Jesse C.

Mr. Puterbaugh owns 183 acres of valuable land in Concord tp., and 80 acres in Kansas. In politics he is a Republican. He served four years as Justice of the Peace, and was i-e-elected, but declined to serve. He is the present Assessor for Concord tp. His father was born in 1792, served in the war of 1812, and died in 1872, at the age of 80 years.

Daniel liichason is a son of Joshua and Jane Richason, natives of Bucks county, Pa. He was born Oct. 25, 1814. His parents were earh' settlers in Baugo tp., their settlement in the county being in 1832, and in Baugo tp. in 1834. Mr. Richason, our subject's father, was a coachmaker hy trade, and worked at that a greater portion of his life in Addlesborough (or Crooket Billet). He died in August, 1841, aged 62 years. The subject of this sketch was reared in the woods, and received his education in log schoolhouses. When young he learned the tailor's trade, which he followed for 18 years. Pie was married July 20, 1837, to Nancy A. Mote, and had 12 children, 9 of whom are living, viz. : John, Allen, Benjamin P., Jane (now Mrs. Joseph Dobson), Mary A. (now Mrs. Philip Smeltzer), Olive, Rachel (now Mrs. Jno. Lightfoot), and Mahala (now Mrs. Jacob Sternberger). Mrs. Richason died March 2, 1875, and Dec. 28, 1876, Mr. R. again married, Mrs. Coder, nee Moshier, the widow of Andrew Coder, who died in 1863. They had 8 children, 4 of whom are living, viz.: Andrew, Sanford, George and Ella. Mr. Richason's great-grandfather was a member of Wm. Penn's colony, and was present when the treaty of peace v/as made with the Indians. Mr. R. is the owner of 164 acres of land in Baugo tp.

John A. Bichley is a native of Seneca Falls, jSTew York, and was born May 2, 1836. His parents were Joseph H. and Susan A. (^Adams) Richley, the former a native of Philadelphia, Pa., and the latter of Easton, Pa. Mr. Richley engaged as clerk for the Fi-anklin Honse at Seneca Falls for some time, and in 1858 became to South Bend, Ind., where he engaged as salesman for French & Adams for two years, and then acted in the same capacity for Guthrie & Zimmerman for 18 months. He then came to Elkhart and spent a portion of the winter, then returned to South Bend and clerked for Wyman. In 1862 he enlisted as a private in Co. 0, 73d Ind. Vol. Inf. He took it upon himself to help recruit, and succeeded in enrolling 66 men in 11 days. At the oi'ganization he was elected First Lieutenant, from which, in six weeks, he was promoted Captain. He was taken prisoner May 2, 1863, at Rome, Georgia, while assisting Col. Straight to prosecute a raid in the rebel territory. They surrendered to Gen. Forrest on the conditions of parole, but'the rebel general violated his part of the contract for the reason, he said, that his prisoners had committed depredations. Mr. Richley, with others, was kept in Libby prison for one year. He was exchanged at Columbia, S. C, and sent to Washington, and thence to Columbus, Ohio; but was soon sent back to the front at Huntsville, Ala. He was discharged in July, '65, returned home, and Aug. 9 married Miss Alice L. Flowland. In 1867 he engaged in the sale of hats, caps, straw goods, furs and gents' furnishing goods, in Elkhart, and has had a steadily increasing trade. He carries a capital stock of $6,000 to $10,000, and his annual sales amount to $12,000 or $15,000.

Jesse Rush, deceased. - According to the testimon}' of the Ensh famil}' that are yet living, Mr. Jesse Eush was the first settler ia this county, having settled here in May 18, 1826. He was born in Tennsylvania, May, 1791. In 1810 he went to Darke county, Ohio. His conveyance from Ohio to this county was a four-ox team. He was a voter at the first election, and aided in building the first school and church houses in the county. He aided in laying out the county and at its organization. He also assisted in laying off Elkhart city. After a siege of 12 years of pioneer life he fell victim to the terrible epidemic that raged so destructively in the year 1838. After a lingering illness Mr. Eush died. The entire family, except Eichard, was prostrate with this disease (cholera). He was married and had 9 children, 7 of whom are living, one son living in Alabama, and one remaining on the old homestead.

" Deacon " Jesse Rush was the son of Isaiah Eush, who was the brother of Jesse Eush, the latter one of the earliest settlers of Elkhart county. The younger Jesse ca'me to Indiana with his father in 1849, the family settling on Sumption Prairie, St. Joseph Co. The next spring Jesse Eush, sr., bought a farm of 160 acres in Liberty county, where he resided until his death in 1854. When Jesse Eush, jr., came to Indiana he was 19 years of age. He had partly learned the blacksmith's trade in Ohio. He resumed this employment in South Bend, working for Eobert Hardy, with whom he remained for two years, after which he worked in La Porte for three years. He subsequently was employed at his craft in Momence, 111., then in La Porte again, where he worked for his previous employer; then in Mishawaka, where he remained ft)r five years. We next find him in Westport, Mo., where he was in the employ of M.F.Graham & Co. during three years. While he was at Westport the civil war broke out, and in April, 1862, he returned to Elkhart. He has opened a shop on Main street, renting at first, but at length purchasing the same premises.' Here he has continued business ever since, adding to blacksmithing the wagon and carriage business. Mr. Eush was married on Oct. 15, 1S60, to Miss Sarah A. Elliott, of Elkhart, daughter of G. W. Elliott. They have 3 children, Geo. E., Harry and Amy, - 2 living at home, and Harr}' being at South Bend, where he is learning the machinist's trade. Mr. Eush is a Junior Deacon in Eagle Lodge, E. A. M., and has passed all the chairs in the order of Odd Fellows.

Jesse C. Rush was born April 23, 1836, and is a son of Josiah and Malinda Eush. He received a common-school education; but little of his youth was spent in a school-house; he was principally on a farm grubbing, chopping and picking brush and roots. He now owns 160 acres of land, in sec. 28. He was married Nov. 13, 1862, to Eliza J. Scoles, by whom he has had 1 child, Herrick Martin. Mrs. Eush was born in Marshall county, Ind., March 7, 1844.

Richard Rush is an Ohioau, and was born in Darke county, that State, May IS, 1825, and is a son of Jesse and Mary Eush, who were among the early settlers of this county. He came with his parents to this county in 1S36, being only one j'ear old; consequently he remembers but little about his native place. Here, with the Indian boys, he passed his childhood years, receiving little or uo education, only in bow and arrow shooting with the keen-eyed Indian lads. At this feature of amusement he became quite expert and seldom "shot amiss," and could kill a pheasant or partridge 20 yards distant. He also participated in their various amusements, such as wrestling and boxing. At this date they were camped on the farm which he now occupies, and there were on this tract of land an Indian camp numbering about 300 inhabitants, situated on the beautiful hillock which rises so commandingly above the adjoining prairie. Old Murashaw and Banaca were chiefs of that band, and they treated the settlers with great kindness. In lS36-'7 the Indians were removed westward, and it was then that Mr. liusli turned his attention to books; but, because he had no comijany, Dec. 6, l&-i9, he married Mary, daughter of Isaiah and Emily Irwin, of New York. They have had 7 children, 6 of whom are living, viz. : James, who married Ella Bridgeman, Emily, who married Francis M. Miller; Clowe (Chloe?), who married Wm. J. Morrow, Maggie E., Lizzie, Mary A. and Alfred, deceased. Mr. E.. owns 100 acres of land in sec. 20, worth $75 per acre. Politically he is a staunch Democrat.

Martin G. and Norman Sage, of the banking and milling firm of Sage Bros., were natives of Chautauqua county, N. Y. Their father's name was Moses, and their mother's maiden^ name was Nancy Goldsmith. The family removed to Adamsville, Mich., in 1834, where they remained till 1869. There they were engaged in milling and merchandise, father and son. On their removal to Elkhart they embarked in the same enterprise here. They were also largely engaged in farming. The father died in 1862, and his mantle fell upon the sons, they taking up his business and financial affairs where he had left them. He had become much involved in debt, but the sons, by industry and careful management, cleared the propert}' of encumbrance, and now are one of the soundest firms in Elkhart. They make common stock of their property and business, keep no accounts between themselves, and have never had a disagreement in their lives, working together as one man. Their present business embraces a bank, a large flour mill, and stock in a starch factory, the Elkhart Gas Company, a straw-board mill, and the Elkhart Hydraulic Worlcs. Martin Sage has been a member of the Common Council of Elkhart. He was Notary Public for many years in Adamsville, and Norman was Postmaster at the same place for a period. Both gentlemen have families, and occupy fine brick residences in the southeastern part of the city.

S. W. Shumard. - The sul)ject of this sketch was born in Clermont county, Ohio, Feb. 21, 1834, and is a son of "William and Lavina Shu.mard, the former a native of New Jersey, and the latter of Ohio. He was reared on a farm, and educated at Milford Semisi

In 1S56 he went to California by way of the isthmus. He there engaged in mining for three years, and was very successful. He then returned and engaged in farming until lS6i, when he went to Oregon. He remained there until 1865, when he came to Goshen and kept a boarding house until 1869. He then came to Elkhart, and opened a saloon in company with Douglas Beardsley, which they ran for one year. In 1870 he, with Abe Blivenour, opened a wholesale liquor store in Elkhart, and ran it for two years. They went to Pittsburg, Pa., in 1872, and ran a saloon one year. Mr. Shumard then returned to Elkhart and erected a brick block on Harrison street and opened a grocery in it, in company with Mr. Golden. In the spring of ISSO he purchased Mr. Golden's interest, and is now conducting the business alone. He has a good and steadily increasing trade. He was married in 1862 to Miss Martha Golden, daughter of John Golden. They have 1 child, Lulu.

H. L. Sliupert. - Among the soldiers that fought valiantly for the freedom and liberty of our county, we find the name of H. L. Shupert. He was born Dec. 15, 1829, in Montgomery county, Ohio, and is a son of Jacob and Ann Shupert, natives of Pennsylvania. Mr. Shupert was raised on a farm and educated in the common schools. His father was a cooper by trade, and when young our subject learned the trade and worked at it for about 25 rears. He was married in September, 1S55, to Julia A. Shaw, and had 2 childi-en, viz.: Laura J. and Samuel (dec). Mrs. S. died in 1S59, and Mr. S. again married, September, 1861, Mary E., daughter of Samuel and Nancy Barnhart. To this union were born 3 children, viz.: Nellie, Charles L. and William, March, 1863. Mr. Shupert enlisted in Co. C, 9th 111. Yol. Inft., under Capt. Braden and Gen. Sherman. He accompanied Gen. Sherman on his entire campaign, and participated in the battles of Eesaca, Peach-tree Creek, Atlanta, Chattanooga, Jonesboro, Franklin and Nashville, Tenn. At the last place he received a slight wound. He served till the close of the war, and received his honorable discharge. In politics he strongly adheres to the principles of Republicanism. George FranMin Shiitt, editor and proprietor of the Elkhart D em oe/r at, VI && horn in Allen county, Ind., Feb. 21, 1855. He was the son of Daniel and Barbara Etta (Cope) Shutt. His father for a large portion of his life followed farming as a pursuit, but latterly he has been in the mercantile business at Maysville, Ind. George remained on the farm till he was 19 years of age. Daring his youth he attended the Maysville and Spencerville graded schools. At 19 he entered the Auburn (Ind.) normal school and pursued a course of study there. Subsequently he taught school two terms in Delvalb and A.dams counties. He was also employed as a clerk in a general store, and afterward in a drug store. In October, 1S76. he bought a half interest in the Maysville i?t?^fr?'er, C. F. Mosier owning the other half. Maysville proving to be an nnprofitable field for the newspaper business the partners moved the office to Bristol, and there established the Banner. In the following July Mr. Shutt sold his interest to Mr. Mosier, an(J took a trip to INebraska, and remained there till April, 1S7S. During his stay in Nebraska he taught school at Clarksville six months. Eetnrning to Indiana, he resumed his connection with the Bristol Banner, which he retained till the following August, when he retired fi-om that paper and purchased the Democratic Union, of Elkhart, and changed its name to Elkhart Democrat. Since then he has continued proprietor of the paper, and in March, 1S79, he assumed its editorial control. Mr. Shutt is a young man, of good newspaper ability, and is a consistent advocate of Democratic principles. Socially he is a member of the order of Odd Fellows.

A. P. Simonton was born in Clarke county, Ohio, Feb. 5, 1816, and is a son of Samuel and Anna (Pierce) Simonton, natives respectively of Delaware and the District of Columbia, and pioneers of Elkhart county. His Grandfather Simonton was from Wales, and settled in America in an early day among the Indians. His son John, uncle of A. P., was taken b}' the Seneca Indians when a small boy, and never returned. He finally forgot his name, except the (Jhristian part, John. He was made chief, and was known as Capt. John. He was afterward heard of and his nephew, A. P.'s brother. Lieutenant (afterward Captain) Isaac Simonton, went to see him, and found him the husband of a squaw, andfather of several halfbi-eeds. It seemed that he had become so thoroughly heathenized that he had no desire to return to the settlements and mingle with his own blood relations, and died as he had lived, a savage.

Mr. A. P. Simonton came to this county with his parents in 1832, where he has since lived. Plis early educational advantages were limited, as schools were few and inferior in his boyhood days. In 1844 he engaged in general merchandising in Elkhart for 26 years. He still owns 280 acres of land, besides town property. Was married in 1844 to Miss Celia Martin, by whom he has 4 children, viz.: Caroline (Eby), Alice L. (Stiner), Ervaetta (Joy) and Phemia (Primley V Mrs. Simonton died Jan. 26, 1860, and he again married May 27, 1862, this time Miss Maria B. Mason, by whom he has 2 children, Minnie F. and Jennie M. B. Mr. Simonton's eldest brother, Capt. Isaac P., was Captain of the 2d Pegiment of dragoons, and died at Fort Wayne, near Fort Gibson, in the Indian Territory, in 1S42, while in command of that fort. Samuel, the second brother, died in Elkhart March 9, 1874, Our subject is tiie third son. and David S., next mentioned, is the fourth. The fifth, John E., died March 16, 1876. The sixth son, Marcellus T., died in London, England. He was a graduate of Yale College, and of the law school. He had started to sail around the world, going by way of California and India, and on arriving in London, death overtook him. Eliza C. the first daughter of the Simonton family, is now Mrs. Beardsley (awidowi, of Wisconsin. The second daughter,

Hannah, is Mrs. Giles A. Jacl^son, of Oakland.' California. The third daughter, Eliza F., is now Mrs. Geo. M. Tibbitts (a widow), of Elkhsrt.

D. S. Shnontoii, whose portrait, from a photograph taken this year (1S80), appears in this work, was born in Clarke county, O., near Springfield, Dec. 17, 1S17, son of Samuel and Anna (Pierce) Siinonton, the former a native of Pennsylvania, and the latter of Maryland, near Washington, D. C. He emigrated to Indiana in the fall of 1S32, bringing his family, which consisted of 5 sons and 3 daughters, and settled in Osolo tp., on the bank of what has since been known as Simonton lake, which derived its name from Mr. Samuel Simonton. This gentleman was a farmer during life; lie died in 1850, and his wife the following year; during life he was a Democrat, took an active part in politics, and served as one of the three County Judges in an early day; was also Justice of the Peace, and held other positions. Isaac P., one of his sons, was a Captain in the U. S. array, a graduate of West Point, served in the Seminole war, and was employed by the Government in removing the Choctaw and Cherokee Indians from Kentucky and Tennessee to their reservations west of the Mississippi river; he was also appointed Post Captain of their reservation, and was holding that ])osition at the time of his death; he was regarded as one of the best and most efficient officers, and would doubtless have risen much higher in his profossion had he lived, as he was but a little over 30 years of age at the time of his death.

Mr. D. S. Simonton, the subject of this sketch, obtained the most of his education at the common schools, and was brought up on his father's farm; at the age of 28, Jan. 24, 1844, in Cass county, Mich., he was married to Miss Emily Allen, a native of ISTew York and a daughter of Luke Allen, one of the old settlers of that county; Mr. S. and wife commenced keeping house on the old homestead, in a house built by himself, near l,he home of his father; at the age of 33 he commenced working at the carpenter and joiner's trade, which, in connection with farming, he followed for several years; in 1860 he abandoned farming entirely, and moved to Elkhart city, where he has since resided, a builder and contractor; he now owns seven brick buildings on Main street, which he built himself, and he also owns four or five private residences which he lias erected; altogether he has put up 15 buildings in this city, besides 12 or 15 in the country. No one of tlie early settlers has done more than Mr. S. in things that will live after him. Politically he is a Democrat. He was a member of the first Council after Elkhart was chartered as a city. His children are Lawrence, Emma and Clara. Lawrence married Alice Carpenter, and lives on a farm in the city limits; Emma is the wife of Cyrus Williams, and lives at Bellevue Place, Batavia, 111.; and Clara is the wife of Frank Sleeper, superintendent of the Ottumwa (Iowa) Starch Factory, "where they reside. Mr. S. may be considered a self-made man, as

Michael Sjjangler was born in Stark county, Ohio, April 26, ] 817, and is a son of Benjamin and Priscilla (Weyer) Spangler. He is the eldest of S children: was reared on a farm and educated ill the common schools. He came to this county in 1864, and located on a farm, but sold his farm and removed to Elkhart in 1866, V\'here he engaged as clerk in a grocery store for a time; has been Secretary of the Elkhart Farmers' Home Fire Insurance Company for several j-ears, and has filled the office of County Collector for tlie past eight years. He was married in 1S3S to Miss Saloma Essig, a native of Stark county, Oiiio. They have 3 children: Alpheus, August X and Cora J. Mr. S. resided a short time in Kalamazoo, Mich. Mr. and Mrs. Spangler are worthy members of the Presbyterian Church, and he is a member of the I. O. 0. F.

Benjamin F. Stephens was born in Dauphin county, Pa., Jan. 17, 1S31, and is a son of Andrew and Mary (Braden) Stephens, also natives of Pennsylvania. His boyhood days were spent upon a farm, and at the age of 17 he learned the trade of cabinet-maker, which vocation he pursued, in connection with the furniture business, until 1876. He also kept hardware for six years. He came to Elkhart in 18-52; was married March 4, 1858, to Miss Euphemia Martin, by whom he has had 2 children : Herriek E. and Ann (dec). In 1870 Mr. Stephens made a tour through the Southern States. He has closed out his furniture and cabinet business on account of ill health, and is now administrator for four estates, and agent for a life-insurance company. He held the ofiice of Trustee for Concord tp. for two years, and was also President of the Board of corporation Trustees, of Elkhart, for two years prior to city organization; was a member of the Board of Education for four years; is now President of the City Board of Health, and has been Treasurer of the Bible Society for 20 years. He also held the responsible position of Sabbath-scliool superintendent in the M. E. Church for about 22 years. In 1876 Mr. Stephens, in company with his wife and son, visited his former home at Harrisburg, and also Washington, and attended the Centennial E.'cpDsition at Philadelpiiia. During this tour they visited '^cw York, Mrs. Stephens' former home, in Dutchess county, New York, and the Niagara Falls.

Milton L. Stevenson^ of the grocery firm of Boyer & Stevenson, was born in Concord, Elkhart county, Sept. 16, 1854. He was the son of Daniel S. and Susanna (Miller) Stevenson. Milton passed his boyhood on his father's farm, and his education was obtained in the district schools and those of Elkhart, where the family resided after 1871. He at length became clerk in the grocery store of B. O. Manchester, and thus remained till the proprietor sold out to H. J. Kremer, after which he continued with the new owner till he sold to Kinzy & Boyer, and remained with these gentlemen till Oct. 26, 1878. when he purchased Mr. Kinzy 's interest, and the firm of Boyer & Stevenson was formed, which is doing business at the present time. Their store is at 210 Main street, south of the raih'oad. They have the only well-stocked grocery store on the South side, and are doing a large and increasing business. They carry a stock valued at $4,000, and have a fall line of groceries, provisions, queen's-ware, wooden ware, and all goods usually sold in a store of tlie kind. Mr. Stevenson was married on May 20, 1S80, to Ada L. Miuniek. He belono;s to the English Evangelical Church, and is a member of the Odd Fellows fraternity.

S. S. Strong, one of Elkhart's proujinent citizens, was born in. Cleveland, Ohio, in Jiiue, ISIT. In September, 1S34, his father's family removed from Ohio, and settled on a farm in Cleveland tp., this county. His father's name was Walter Strong, an early settler in Cleveland tp. Mr. Strong spent his boyhood on his father's farm, and attended school during the regular terms. At the age of 21 he was emploj'ed as a clerk in a store in Elkhart. At length he ventured in business for himself. He at first formed a partnership with Mr. A. Defrees, and afterward was in partnership with A. ]N^. Hascall. Altogether he was in trade for 20 years. His last partner was Mr. Maxon, and the firm was known as that of Strong & Maxon. After going out of trade Mr. Strong became connected with the hydraulic works of Elkhart, and assisted in the construction of that improvement, collecting all the monev for stock. He afterward assisted in the organization of the Exclsi or Starch Mill Company; he sold his interest ,in this corportaion in February, ISSO. He was a prime mover in the formation of the Elkhart Knitting Company, established in 1879, and is at present its president, and devotes nearly all his time to the management of that enterprise, which is in a flourishing condition, manufacturing all kinds of hosier}'. Mr. Strong was a City Counclman one term. He is a member of the Masonic order. He has been secretary of the hydraulic company since its organization, with the exception of three years, and is now a stockholder.

Mr. Strong was married Dec. 31, 1840, to Miss Harriet B. Stillman, daughter of Jared A. Stillman, of Elkhart. This lady died in 1854, leaving 3 children, Norman H., Charles A., and Walter A. Mr. S. was again married in 1856 to Miss Louise M. Strong, daughter of James Strong, of Cleveland, Ohio, who is still living. By -the last marriage there are 5 children, all at home: Laura Belle, James E., Freddie, Clarence and George.

Mr. Strong is a Republican in politics. His oldest son, Norman, enlisted in the Union army during the Rebellion, leaving home without consent of parents, being only 16 years of age, and participated ill the battle of Fort Donelson before being enlisted; he soon afterward enlisted and participated in the battle of Shiloh; was soon afterward taken sick aijd discharged, having been out nearly a year.

Ohas. H. Siiiari was born in Farmington, Mich., Oct. 14, 1S46. His parents were E. and Mary C. (Bowers) Stuart. In early childhood he was taken by his parents to Hudson, Mich., where he lived till he was IS, when he went to Hannibal, Mo., and was two years engaged in the wood and brick business; at the expiration of that time he went to California in search of his fortune, and after an eight years' exploit returned to Coldwater, Mich., and subsequently came to Elkhart, where he has been engaged as machinist with the exception of two years, which was improved in the same business at Jackson, Mich. He was married Oct. -i, 1S73, to Melissa Scoles, a native of Marshall county, lud. She was born Aug. 27, 1849. To them were born 2 children: Samuel, now living, and Arthur, deceased. In politics Mr. S. advocates the principles of Republicanism.

John C. Stuck, the subject of this sketch, is a native of Stark county, Ohio, and was born May 3, 1844. His father, Adam Stuck, was a native of Pennsylvania, and his mother, Barbara (Rudy) Stuck, was born in Ohio. Mr. Stuck was brought up on a farm, and educated in the Canton (Ohio) Seminary, and Prairie College., He served three years for Uncle Sam in the late war, in Co. B 115th 0. V. I.,and participated in the battles of Stone River, Laverne, Kenesaw Mountain, Chattanooga, Louisville and others. Atone time he was mounted Orderly for Gen. Burnside. He was one of the many boys who were compelled to make their beds in the mud and water, on corn stalks, brusli and fence rails. On one occasion, when he slept on the ice and snow, his hair became frozen fast to the ice so that his partner had to cut his hair in order to release him. When but a boy Mr. Stuck learned the molder's trade, and since the war he has been diligently pursuing this trade. He removed to Three Rivers, Mich., iu 1868, remaining there IS months, when lie came to Elkhart, and has since been in the employ of the L. S. & M. S. R. R. Co. He was car- wheel molder for four years, and now is molder of drive-wheels. He was married, Sept. 25, 1867, to Mary Smith, who died Feb. 23, 1870. Mr. Stuck again married, March 17, 1S73, ihis time Mrs. Freelove Smith. Mr, and Mrs. S. are members of the M. E. Church. Mr. Stuck has been Steward in the Church, and is now Class-leader. Sabbath-school Superintendent and Church Trustee.

liiiiard Stutsman was born iu Concord tp., this county, Dec. 1, 1844, and is a son of David C. Stutsman, who came to this county in 1836, and who is a native of Montgomery county, Ohio. Rinard's mother was Barbara (Roofj Stutsman, born in Alsace, France, Jan. 9, 1806. She died at the old homestead in Concord tp., four miles south of Elkhart, Aug. 17, ISSO. David C. Stutsman still resides on the homestead. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm, and educated iu a log school-house with slab seats and old-fashioned desks. He was a soldier two years in the war; served in Company C. 9th Ind. Vol. Inf. He participated in the battles of Resaca, Kenesaw Mountain, Atlant.^, Jonesboro, Franklin, Tenn.,

Nashville and others. His brothers, David R. and Abraham, also served in the late war, doing valiant service for Uncle Sara. Mr. Stutsman, after returning from the war. engaged in farming for one year. He then went to Ingham county, jVIich., remaining four years, and engaged for the most part in the manufacture of pumps. He came to Elkhart in 1872. and has been engaged in the manufacture of pumps ever since. He also drives wells and repairs pumps. He is doing a good business, and is a hard worker. He married Aug. 23, 1866, Miss Gemima Smith, a native of Greentown, Ohio, and is a daughter of Jeremiah Smith, and they have had 3 children, 2 of whom are living, viz.: Lnla M. and Floran K.

Dean Swift (deceased) was a native of Clarkson, Monroe Co., New York, and was born Oct. 2, 1815. His parents were Lewis and Mary (Forbes) Swift, also natives of New York. Mr. Swift was reared and educated in his native town, where he also early learned the carpenter trade. He erected a saw-mill and ran it five years, then sold it. Maj' 25, 1837, he married Miss Emeline Wiuegar, in the town of Farmington, Oakland Co., Mich. She is also a native of Clarkson, New York, and is a daughter of John Winegar, who emigrated to Michigan in 1835. They had 3 children, viz.: Julia A. (wife of Gen. Hascall, of Goshen), Helen A. (dec.) and Susan (now Mrs. Wood). Mr. Swift removed to Detroit in 1843, and worked in the car shops, and in 1848 he came to Elkhart, and engaged in the mercantile and milling business. He was very successful in business, and grew wealthy. He was a brother of Prof. Lewis Swift, the great astronomer of Rochester, N. Y., who discovered seven planets, and has been awarded three gold medals for his discoveries. Mrs. C. E. Wolsev, the fine artist of Rochester, N. Y., is his sister. He died June 17, 1874. One pride of his life was that he never smoked or chewed tobacco or drank intoxicating liquors.

Dr. Warren H. Thsmas was born in Goshen, Ind., April 28. 1841, and is a son of Thomas Thomas, who came to this country in 1828, and now resides in Warsaw, Ind., at the age of 89 years. The Doctor was educated at Dickinson Institute, Romeo, Mich. He read medicine under Y>y. Whipp}-, and practiced awhile in Monticello, Ind. He graduated at Hahnemann Medical College at Chicago, in 1874, and returned to Elkhart and resumed the practice of his chosen profession. When he began he had nothing, but now is classed among the prominent physicians of Northern Indiana, and has a large and growing practice. He was married Jan. 2, 1367, to Miss Emma, daughter of Daniel Hill, of Elkhart. They have had 2 children. Royal (dec.) and George A. The Doctor was President of the Board of Education of Elkhart one year, and was a member of that body for three years. He has always manifested great interest in educational affairs, and is widely known as a worker in that capacity. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and was Master of a lodge at Goshen at one time; he is 1st Vice President of the Indiana Institute of Homeopathy.

David Thompson, one of tlie few prominent octogenarians of Elkhart, has a history contemporary with the modern railroad era. He was born in Coventry, Orleans Co., Vt., in 1806. He was the son of Samuel and Lncy (Woodbridge) Thompson. Enoch Woodbridge, member of Congress from Vermont, was his mother's cousin. David's boyhood was passed at home, and his early education was obtained from the district schools nearest at hand. Ac 21 years of age he went to Boston to seek his foi-tuue. His father was a millwright, and David's mind was early turned toward mechanics. When the Boston & Providence railroad, the first work of the kind in America, was being constructed, by some fortuitous circumstance Mr. Thompson secured the job of building the bridges of the road, and finally performed an important part in the completion of the work throughout its entire length, having charo-e of the road-bed and track for some time afterward. Thus he was a sharer in one of the most important events in the history of the United States, and of civilization as well; for the construction of the Boston & Providence railway initiated what is often termed the railroad age, the most remarkable in the world's annals. He afterward, in lS33-'4, performed important work on the Boston & Worcester and the Boston & Lowell railways. He remembers the primitive rolling-stock of the first railroads, the woodenwheeled coaches, the bodies of which were shaped like an old Concord stage-coach, and had a foot-board along their sides on which the conductor walked to collect fares; and the uncouth, bungling and uncertain engines of American make, which it was necessary to supplant by locomotives made in England. He was contractor's agent on the Worcester road, and laid part of the track on the Stonington line, and on several other New England roads. In 1834 he secured a contract on the Pensacola & Columbia railroad, and made the voyage from Boston to the scene of his labors in a sailino- vessel. The Seminole war was then at its height in Florida,, and Mr. Thompson's brother Samuel was in the Federal army and died in Florida of disease contracted in the everglades. Mr. Thompson was engaged in building bridges and laying track on the Pensacola line when the jjanic of 1836 prostrated tlie financial interests of the country and bankrupted the corporation b}' which he was employed. Work on the road ceased, and Mr. Thompson found himself down South without employment, but he was fortunate enough to draw the last dollar of his pay from the Pensacola bank before the crash came. Looking about for new adventure, Mr. Thompson found a man by the name of John Shepherd, who was traveling through the South selling maps. Desiring to travel and get out of the country in some manner, Mr. Thompson made an arrangement to travel with this Northern peddler, and with him made a tour through Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Arkansas. Missouri, Tennessee, Iowa, thus spending the summer of 1836 and the winter of 1836-'". At last he arrived in Chicago, and took steamer for St. Joseph, Michigan, and coming to

Edwardsburgh, Cass Co., Mich., he began work as a millwright and honsebuilder, employing several hands. He subsequently engaged in farming and dealt in cattle from 1S54 to 1S57. His fortune began to accumulate during these years, and he bought and sold land on speculation. His landed property now is quite large; he owns a farm of l-ki acres in Cass count}', Mich., and -iOO acres in Cleveland tp., this county. On his Michigan farm there is a saw-mill. He was married in ISiO to Elizabeth Hatch. This lady died, leaving 2 daughters. He was subsequently married to Aramenta Wadleigh, by whom he has had 2 sons. Mr. Thompson is a member of the Odd Fellows, and has passed all the chairs in that order. He is also a member of the Masonic fraternity, having taken the Blue Lodge degree. He was prominent in tp. affairs, and was once a member of the Common Council. One of the remarkable reminiscences of Mr. Thompson's life is of his accompanying DeWitt Clinton in his Erie, Champlain and Vermont canal surveys. He carried the tripod for the Clintons, and was with them for mouths. He speaks in glowing terms of both as perfect gentlemen, and kind and obliging to him as a boy. Mr. Thompson's life, as a whole, has been crowded with events and experiences of unwonted intei'est. A good portrait of this gentleman is given on another page, from a picture taken at the age of 73 years.

Michael Tnoiy, jeweler, was the son of Philip and Elizabeth Truby, and was born in Greentown, Stark Co., 0., Jan. 4, 1827. Until 21 years of age he remained at home, dividing his time, when of sufficient age, between going to school, blacksmithing and farming. At 21 he journeyed to Indiana and located at South Bend, his parents having taken up their residence on a farm on Pleasant Plains, two miles south of Elkhart. He was first employed in South Bend in a wagon-repairing shop, and in that capacity ironed the first carriage made in that place, making even the springs. During the eight years he resided in South Bend he taught day and singing-school a portion of the time. He was also member of a brass band there, and chorister in the Baptist Church, a position which he held for three years. In 1859 Mr. Truby tried his fortune in Mexico, Mo., where he was successful in business till the breaking out of the civil war, when he felt obliged to leave. the place on account of his adherence to the Union cause. This was a serious material loss to him, for he left behind considerable real estate, from which he has as yet failed to realize. When he came to Elkhart, in 1862, he was niuch reduced in circumstances, and was obliged to begin at the foot of Fortune's ladder. He opened a watch-repairing shop, and has since prospered, till now he has a full assortment of jewelry, silverware and books, and is doing a profitable business. He is a member of the order of Odd Fellows, and of the German Workingmen's Society, of Elkhart. Mr. Truby was married in South Bend Jan. IS, 1855, to Mary V. Ketcham. They have i sons, the vouncjer 2 livinsr, James M. and Charles M.

Tnibv. Mr. Truby has a I'emarkable literary relic, a German Bible published in 1676, which came into the possession of his mother's family immediately after the Revolution. The family record in this heirloom reaches back to 1327. The volume is a huge tome 15 inches long and a foot wide, bound in embossed leather, fastened with brass clasps, with brass nails in the corners. The letter press and engravings in this almost mediseval volume exhibit a high art, showing that but little improvement has been made in the printer's and engraver's crafts since the 17th century. Mr. Truby is the inventor of a combination door latch and alarm bell, on which he has a patent. This ingenious device connects the latch with the bell, and can be detached whenever it is not desired to give an alarm. It is a perfect instrument for a door latch and alarm combined, and a complete security against unwelcome intruders.

Col. Alba Mark Tucker, the well-known military and railway man, was born at West Hartford, Windsor Co., Yt., JTov. 14, 1836. He spent his boyhood, until 12 years of age, on his father's farm; then, feeling a spirit of enterprise and a desire for a higher education, he procured employment as a teamster on the Yermont Central railway. He afterward worked in the stone quarries at Portland, Conn. The money thus earned enabled him to begin a course of study at the Newbury Seminary, which he continued two years. In 1S54 he was employed as a civil engineer on tlie Connecticut & Passumpsic Piver railroad, and remained a year, and in 1855 he went to Adrian, Mich., for the purpose of securing employment on the Michigan Southern & JSTorthern Indiana railroad. When he arrived he had but $1- in money, and his need of employment under the circumstances became painfully pressing. He applied to Col. James Moore, Superintendent of the above named road, who gave him a clei-kship at Tecumseh station, at $25 a month. In the May following he was transferred to Elkhart to take a similar position, at $40 a month. He was shortly after made agent of tlie station, a remarkable promotion when it is considered that at this time he was but 18 years of age. He afterward resigned and accepted the lucrative position of union ticket agent at Janesville. Wis. His next step on the ladder of fortune was made at Toledo, Ohio, where he became clerk in the General Superintendent's office of the Michigan Southern & Northern Indiana railroad. Subsequently to this he engaged in selling goods in Elkhart, which he pursued one year, when he accepted a place as clerk in the general freight office at Toledo. In 1S62 he enlisted in the 100th Ind. Pegt. of Vol. He was commissioned 2d Lieutenant by Gov. Morton, and was soon promoted to a 1st Lieutenancy, and was made Pegimental Quartermaster. He afterward became Post Quartermaster and Commissary at Indianapolis. His regiment being removed to Memphis, Tenn., he was, in March, 1863, appointed acting Assistant Quartermaster. He was in October ordered to change the gauge on a section of the Louisville, Frankfort &, Lexington railway, a work which he speedily accomplished. He was simaltanec nsly engaged in the superintendence of other important railroad and engineering work. He was at one period of the war disbursing Qaartermaster at Louisville, and was during the erection of barracks, Quartermaster at Jeftersonville and New Albany.

Such was the ability displayed by Col. Tucker in all the various railway and Quartermaster service wliich he performed tliat he was offered a position as Assistant Qaartermaster in the regular army, but he declined the profi'er, and resigned his position in the array Oct. 18, 1865. On leaving the army Col. Tucker was offered the position of General Superintendent of the Pennsylvania Central railway, but did not accept it. In 1S67 he was President of the Poard of Trustees of the town of Elkhart. He was elected County Auditor Oct. 10, 1867, by a flattering majority. He was superintendent of construction of the new court-house at Goshen. After leaving the auditor's office Col. Tucker enjoyed a period of comparative freedom from labor and responsibility, until about two and a half years ago, when he was appointed Assistant Superintendent of the Michigan Southern & Lake Shore railway, with an office in Elkhart. Tliis position he occupies at the present time.

V. Yoislnet and family came to Elkhart from PufFalo, JST. Y. Mr. Voisinet had been a farmer near that city. He bought the old mill owned by Morehouse & Swift, and carried that on a few years with "Nicholas Webber. He then purchased Mr. Weblier's interest, and conducted the business individually for a few years. His son, V. E. Voisinet, went into partnership with him two years since, A. M. Doll also taking an interest, the firm assuming the style of V. Voisinet & Co. Mr. Voisinet built the present four-story mill in the full of 1875. It is supplied with four run of stones, and one double set of rolls, and is fitted up in all respects as a first-class flouring-mill. The grain converted in this mill is purchased in the vicinity, and the product mostly shipped to the East, thus making it a home enterprise of great local value, and one of the most important in Elkhart.

Charles Walleij, one of the leading furniture dealers of Elkhart, was born in Allmny, N. Y., April 3, 1S31-. He was the son of John and Elizabeth Walley. His father's occupation was the manufacture of lumber and shingles. When Charles was six years of age his parents removed to Williamstown, Mass., where they remained till he was 20 years of age. He then went to South Adams, Mass., and was there two years. During his minority he had learned the carriage-painter's trade, and had charge of the painting department of a carriage shop at Williamstown, In 1855 he went to Chippewa, Canada, and tarried there si.x months. We next find him at Pattle Creek, Mich., where he had charge of a paint shop. After three months, he spent some time at Constantine, and then went to Superior City, Wis. He there established himself in the house and sign-painting business. He spent the years 1856-'8 there, during the period when that city was arrowing rapidly. He speaks of the great abundance of wild game that roamed in the vicinity at the time, and says that it was a common thing for a party of hunters to go out for a half-da3''s sport and return with a wagon load of deer. Leaving Superior City Mr. Walley and family came to Indiana, and had charge of the Mishawaka Iron Company's paint shops for five years. He then bought a cooper shop and managed that three years, making a good thing of the enterprise. In 1S6S he sold this business, and bought Kellogg Bros.' retail furniture store at Mishawaka. He carried forward this business for three years, and in 1871 sold out and moved to Elkhart, where he established a furniture store, and has continued that trade here ever since. He has an undertaliing department connected with his business, and is one of the two dealers in first-class furniture in Elkhart. He is conducting an excellent business, and has received ample encouragement for the legitimate and honorable way he performs his obligations to customers. Mr. Walley has been twice married. His first wife was Miss Sarah Trow, previous to marriage. This lady died in ]859. He was again married in 1860 to Emily E. Eoss, of Mishawaka. They have 4 living children. Mr. Walley is a member of Kane lodge of Freemasons, Elkhart. He was elected CouQcilman from the First ward in 1874, and took a seat in the first Council after the city had been incorporated.

Ransom H. WaUon, son of John and Isabel ( Dyer ) Watson, was born in Chenango county, Kew York, Feb. 14, 1831. He was reared on a farm, and his educational advantages were none other than those afforded by the common schools. His mother died in ISTew York, and he moved with his father to Smithfield, Pa., where his father died. Kansom H. then came to Kirtland, Lake Co., Ohio, where he remained some time. While there he attended services in the Mormon temple, which then existed. He was married in Ashtabula county, Ohio, in 1842, to Miss Rebecca Ferguson, by whom he has had 4 children: of these, 2 are living, Albert A. and Nettie. He came to this county in 1844 and settled on a farm three miles west of Elkhart, but soon afterward went to Mishawaka. In 1845 he went to Joliet, 111., and remained six months. He then returned to Mishawaka and engaged in making cemented cisterns, which were about the first of the kind made in Elkhart county. He remained in Mishawaka two years, when he moved into the country to a point about four miles west of Elkhart, and for tour years kept an inn or country hotel, called the " Indiana House," but more commonly known as the " Elephant House," as his sign was the picture of an elephant. After living in various places he finally settled in Elkhart, and has engaged in various vocations, but mostly deals in real estate, buying and repairing city property, etc. He has resided seven years of this time on his farm, but has resided in Elkhart since 1875. He carried the mail from Elkhart to Dowagiac, Mich., for eight years. Mrs. Watson died in 1878, and he again married in 1879, this time Miss Olive Stone.