Gibson County, Indiana - Ecclesiastical History, 1884 (part 1 of 2)

N Church

quest, resolved to town of Prineetor during the sessions of this meeting of the Presbytery that the first Presbyterian church of Pri ularly organized, embracing the following member. Robert Williams, Nancy Williams, Rollin Wilson, Wi liam French, Mary French, Nathaniel Foster, Nancy Foster, James B. E. Goodlet, Elenor Goodlet, Melvina

Butler, Jane B. Evans, Nancy Howard, Jane Whitmore. The following persons were elected and ordained as Ruling Elders: - Williem French and James R. E. Goodlet. Daring the same meeting of Presbytery, Calvin E. Butler, a licentiate of the Presbytery of Londonderry, was ordained as an evangelist and received and excepted an ii le father, accepted un invitati Te is said of Mr. Martin, th A earnestly for the space of two years, necom- * But the church was small in wenk, and Mr. Martin la ly to support, and he was therefore constrained to seek another field of labor where he could receive suficient remuneration to support himself and family. About the time of the departure of Mr. Martin, Dr. JI. H. Patton and wife eame here from Kentucky and opened a female school. 'The Doctor being a Presbytoer, was at omeo invited to supply the pulpit, he did for somo three years, in connection with he school. he spring of 1838 Mr. Jahn M. McCord, u licentinte of the Presbytery of Madison, took charge of the church and continued to discharge faithfully his duties until the year 1848 or "44. Rev. Robert Lilly, of Mount pplied the pulpit temporarily for less

Tunmodiately after the departure of Mr. Dodge, the church extended a call to the Rev. J. T. Hendricks, The call was accepted ani ho was at once installed pastor of the church by Presbytery. Mr. Hendricks therefore the first instajled pastor of this church; until this time there had been only stated supplies. He remained until the year 1852 and removed to Petersburgh, Pike County, this state. Although Mr. Hendricks during his residence here was in very feeble health, still in labors he was abundant, and for this he was rewarded by the Master in witnessing a most graious revival of religion - a revival which not only

He was followed by the Rev. Henry W. Briggs, who, | owing to continued ill health, was obliged to assign his | charge in about two years. The venerable John P. Paxton, D. D., succeeded Mr. Briggs. The doctor was not only a man of rare intellectual ability and culture, | but his mind was enriched by a large experience during | 'Jong life in the ministry and extensive travel and observation. He is remembered us an able, interesting and instructive preacher of the gospel, beloved by his own congregation und revered by the whole community. His wife, Mrs. M. M. Paxton, was in every respect a suitable companion. The way in which Providence led | her through a long, eventful life developed in her a noble Christian character. In youth she consecrated herself to the cause of foreign missions, accompanying her first husband, Dr. Dodge, to Beirout, Syria. There experienced her first great sorrow in the loss of her husband. It was here, n widow in her mission home, Dr. Paxton made her ucqunintance, which soon ripened into marriage. Her retur to her native land did not cause her to be any the less interested in foreign mis- | spirit shown during past years. of 1960, Dr. Paxton resigned the charge | the presidency of Highland Uni- | f, Kaunas, to the great regret of the congregation | community. It was during bis oversight of the | that the present church edifice was erected | mt n cont of $5,00000, Rev. H. B. Scott served the church about two years, and H. Anghy one year. Duryx Mr. Scott's time thére were quite a munber of adi tionn to the chure Dr. Paxton having fulfilled his mission in Kansas, reentered again npon his duties us pastor of of MB years. Mr. Martin B. Van Ardal tinte, served the church from September, 186 tomber, 1869, during which time there were several aidditions to the church on examination. The present comfortable parsounge was purchased at this time at a cost of $2,500, Soon after this Rev. John Mont stalled, and continued to snstain that relation to ich until June 1, 1879. During Mr. Montgom- time, although there was no extensive work of grace in the church, yet there were frequent accessions to its numbers. Mr. Montgomery deservedly enjoyed the confidence and love of his people, and is gratefully remembered by them. Rev. Benjamin Mills, D. served the church for nine months, Mr. Mille is an unusually fine preacher, and will long be remembered as such by this community. Since Sept. 1, 1680, Rev. John Stuart has been the stated supply of the congregation. Daring these four years there have been some twenty-five additions, and we trust the church has not only been strengthened numerically but spi Tally. Present number of communicants is one hunred. Present officers: Rev, John Stuart, stated supply; ruling elders, W. P. Welborn and Seth. Ward; deacons, W. D. Downey and Thomas R. Paxton. We have tried to give as briefly as possible in a connected statement the succession of ministers who have served this church for the fifty years of ite existence.

It now remains to refer to some matters pertaining to church work proper. There bas been a Sabbath-school in connection with the public worship of God ever since the congregation had a house of its own to worship in. Present number of children and youth enrolled, 100; average attendance, 80. Thomas B. Paxton, superintendent, assisted by a number of faithful teachers. 'There is a collection taken up every Sibbath for bene. volent purposes, which amounts anmually to between

$100. There has been for years a woman's missionary society in eotinection with this congregation, which holds regular monthly meetings for prayer and consultation, and occasionally public exercises of an interesting character, to which the public are invited. 'This society has shown a commendable degree zeal and enterprise in developing the benevolence of the consregationg The collections annually amount to about $100,

Tn addition to this the church collectively gives annual contributions to the different Boards of the church. There has also always been maintained a weekly prayermeeting, which is usually well attended and is interesting and profitable to those who are present.

Cumberland Presbyterian Church

This congregation was organized by Rev. William Barnett, in August, 1817, at a Methodist place of worship known as Shiloh, in Gibson County. "The elders were James Knowles, Samuel Montgomery and Alex ander Johnson, the two former having been elders in the Presbyterian church. It is probable this was the first Cumberland Presbyterian congregation in the state, At first the name of the congregation was Hopewell, and the members were acenstosned to worship and hold their camp-mectings at the same place with the Methos. Thus two campemectings were held euch year the same spot, eonjointly, for a mimber of years silly, under eirenmstanees which need not now be tioned, the two meetings hm take pinee nt the sume time, the Cumberland Presbytei withdrew, and, with the nid of many sympathizers the community, established a campground one-half from Shiloh, and hell their meeting nt the ap pointed time. When Messrs. Downey, Lymn, Hunter and others were assembled nt the time of meeting, the question arose to what name the new place of worship should bear, Father Downey said, " Call it Mt. Zion, for it shall never be removed; " referring to Psal. xx», Lic" They that trast in the Lord shall be as Mt. Zion, which can not be removed, hut abideth forever. At once the congregation assumed that name, and trusting in the Lord, has remained stendfust in its work. The following persons ministered to the congregation in holy things during the periods designated: - Rev. Alexander Downey, six years: Rev. Willium L 'owenty-fonr years, during which time he attended bwenty-one conscentivo eampmeetings at Mt. Zion; Rev. J. È. Jenkins, one Rev. Thomas Walker, years. Rev. J. B. Halleck is now the pastor tember, 1899, the Presbytery divided the congregation and organized one hy the name of Mt. Plensant, the first representative being Elder Auron Lewis. Among those who ministered to this congregation were Messrs. William B. Hall, James Ritchey, Ebenezer Hall, T. B. Lester, John Lewis and J. E. Jenkins. A few years since this congregation was dissolved, and the members were restored to Mt. Zion. Of the elders who have served this congregation during its long and honorable history, two deserve especial mention. Prettyit been announced to

15, 1780. He came to this state in 1811 and settled in ibson County. He served as u soldier in the War of 1812, and then returned to his avoeation as a farmer in what was then an almost unbroken forest, He made a profession of religion during a eamp-meeting ut in August, 1818. He and his wife united with the church at the same time, and he was soon elected to the office of ruling elder, which he filled with dignity ability and Christian zeal for thirty-one yers. He very often represented lis congregation in Presby and Synod, and frequently represented the Presb in the General Assembly. In the spring of 1849 h moved with his family to Menard County, I,

John Skelton was born in Albemarle County, Va, May 5,1797. With his parents he moved to Mason Connty, Ky., and from there to Gibson County, Ind Tn the year 1824, while on his way hom mp meeting then in progress xt Shiloh, he trusted Christ as his Savior, and a few weeks afterwards, in com. pany with his wife, united with Rey. David Lowry officiating as moderator of the sesom. One year afterwards he was electol elder, and filled the office with great honor to the ehmrch till his death, Nov, 8, 1857, in the sixty-first year of his age an1 the thirty-second of his eldership. Too much can not be said in praise of this good man's piety. He wax fll of and with it was mausnally intelligent. In dily life he was not only consistent, but was aggressive in pressing the claims of Christinnity npon others. No one lived in his house long without becoming a Christian. His children all became useful members of the church, two of them now being elders.

In 1876, the membership of Mt. Zion congregation living in and near Owensville, asked Presbytery to transfor their mames and make them part of Bethel congreution, which was done. Rev. J. B. Hudlock eontinued to minister to the congregation wil 1879; since then Rev. T. Walker and now Rev. N. F. Gill "The elders now are Aaron and Jumes Redman, John F. Shelton, Leroy Calvert and J. F. Pruitt.

m was the Cormick took charge and remained During his adminis: tration they built their first church nud seemed to enjoy a degree of prosperity, but from the time he discontinued his labore till 1859 they made but little progress. For short terms of one year or less they were supplied. with preaching during this period by Messrs. B. T. Stewart, C. G. M. Green, N. Loomis, J. Kirkpatrick,

1660 Rev. Thomas Walker became pastor, and has | continued such to the present time, period of about | seventeen years. Seven years ago a new house of worship was built. There have been a number of gracious revivals of religion, and the congregation is otherwise | a good condition. In membership itis eighty-three, | und the elders are J. M. Smith, William Knowles, D. W. Smith and C. Emerson,

'The membership of Mt. Zion congregation living in 'and around Owensville was made part of Bethel congregation in April, 1876. Since then the congregation hns been ministered to by Revs. M. M. Smith, W. M. Medcalf and N. F. Gill. Rev. M. M. Yates has bad charge the past year and a half. They have built in Owensville in the last year a substantial brick church at a lost of $4,000 of Gothic style of architecture.

Fort Branch Conoregation

Until quito recently this congregation was called Mt. Moriah, It was organized by Rev. Alexander R. Downey, ut the residence of Mr. David Robb, about three miles southwest of Fort Branch, Gibson County, in tho spring of 1823. There were about twenty members at the organization. Messrs. David Robb, Androw Ralston, James Knowles and John Treble were lected and ordained ruling elders. Mr. William Brothers was ordained deacon. Mr. Downey resided in the bounds of the congregation and continued to feod the little flock for some time - the length of time can not ascertain, In the year 1898 a camp-ground was constructed on a piece of ground donated by Mr. Robb, near his dwelling, and the first camp-meeting was held. The following year n church edifice was erected upon the same lot of ground, and called the Mt. Moriah church. In this house the congregation 'continued to worship till 1806, when a new house wns built in the town of Fort Brauch. Mr. Downey was sneereled by Rev. William Lynn, whose labors were highly apprecinted and which did much to strengthen 'and build up the organization. Next came Rev. Hiram A. Hunter, who preached with great success. and was iustruwental in the conversion of many precious souls. Following bim were Messrs. S. T. Stewart, John Kirkpatrick, Hiram Broils, T. B. McCormick, John Edmondson and Joseph Neeley. During the term of service of these ministers, which brings the history up o 1867, the congregation was more or less prosperous. | Sometimes sun shone out brightly. and again dark clouds would hover over the church and all would look discouraging.

Rev. Thomas Walker took charge of the congregation when Mr. Neely's time expired, and continued to preach for several years. During bis ministry the church enjoyed a number of precious revivals of religion which added much to its strength. In the year 1809 Rev. H. W. Bryant took charge and preached six

Mr. Walker again became pastor and labored for one year, when he was succeeded by Rev. William Wilson, who preached one year and was followed by, Rev. J. W. Cleaver, who remained nine months. Again Mr. Walker 'was employed for one year. At the expiration of this 'engagement Rev. B. F. Ivy, of Georgia, was employed 'and labored for one year. Notwithstanding these frequent changes the congregation has been gradually strengthened. At present it has a session consisting

| of elders William Wright, George Beloat, Wesley Redman, William H. Redman and A. L. Lewis, and Deacons J. G. Higginbotham and Henry Burk. It has a membership of 160, two commodious church edifices valued at $5,000, a flourishing Sabbath-school and a 'weekly prayer-mecting. Its condition is healthy and prosperous, with prospects for a brilliant future. Rev. W. M. Medealf is pastor. Continued to preach here until last March. The present pastor is Rev. H. Clay Yates.

Princeton. Conoreoation

An early as 1822, when the pioneer ministers of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church visited Gibson County, at a camp-meeting held at old Shiloh, conducted by Messrs. John and William Burnett and others, Mrs. Elizabeth Arbuthnot, of Princeton, made n profession. of faith in Christ and united with the Mt. Zion congregation. Soon afterward a camp-meeting was held in the neighborhood of Patoka, conducted by Messrs, Barnett, Delayney and others, and a society was organized known as Patoaa society, the territory embracing Princeton and the eastern and northern parts of the county. Mrs, Arbuthnot, Mrs. Gen. John I. Neely and others became members of this society, and through their influence preaching was bad at Princeton, Princeton congregation was organized by Rev. Hiram A. Hunter on the 224 of December, 1882. Johu C. Warrick, Lane W. Posey and Daniel Zimmerman were chosen elders. Mr. Hunter supplied this congregation 'with preaching till 1886. About the time his labore ceased with this congregation by order of Indiana Presbytery, the Patoka congregation was dissolved and ite membership added to Princeton congregation.

In 1887 Rev. James Ritchey became the stated supply 'of this congregation and served it as such for two years. During his labors with them the congregation secured a lot upon which they erected a house for worship. After Mr. Ritehey's term of service Rev. 8. T. 'Stewart and others supplied the congregation until the fall of 1841, and from this date until the spring of 1848 Rev. T. B. McCormick was in charge. From its organization until this period the congregation grew and was in a healthy condition, but for nine years succeed: ing it passed through many dark days. All the preaching had here daring that period was such temporary supplies as Presbytery could send. Among those who ccame as messengers of merey were Messrs. William Lynn, Joseph Neely, Nelson Loomis, E. W. Hall and perliaps others. The congregation was much reduced and demoralized. In 1852 Rev. David Darr became stated supply. He served till the fall of 1857, and | during his ministry the broken fragments were guthered, | u Sabbath-sehiool organized, and the congregation begun to put forth signs of life again. About fifty-five members were recorded when his labors closed. In 1867 | Rev. J. E. Jenkins supplied this and Bethel congregations, his services withBethel ending in 1858, when all ime was given to Princeton congregations. In Oc. tober, 1850, he was regularly installed pastor, and us such still serves it. ` During the past eighteen years the growth of the congregation has been steadily on the increase, In 1860 the trustees exchanged the church on Seminary Hill with the Lutherans for the building 'occupied at present. In the fall of 1870 the congregation was, by order of Presbytery, again divided and Patoka congregation re-established with fifty-five members, leaving Princeton congregation with one hundred und five, 'There are now in communion one hundred und sixty-one. The congregation is now keeping up two weekly prayer-meetings and a Sabtathschool with good interest. During the existence of this congregation 565 persons have passed the session and become menibers, - 72 by letter and 498 on profession of faith. 'The following perscns comprise the list of elders that have served the congregation since 1892: J. C. Warrick, Lane W. Posey, Daniel Zimmerman, John Berlin, George Dougan, Wim. Archer, John Brazleton, | Joseph Montgomery, Carey A. Milburn, Isaac Montgomery, John M. Witherspocn, M. G. C. Hargrove, E. E. Woods, Richard I. Coleman, Allen C. Stout, D. Eckley Hunter, G. F. Fairchild, James M. Depriest, Francis M. Jones, A. J. Calkins and Benj. Onyett. Total, 121. Of these, J. C. Warrick, Lane W. Povey, John Berlin Win. Archer, Joseph Montgomery, Isaac Me the Patoka congregation. The others hs from the bounds of the congregation, except Messrs. Dougan, Stout, Depriest, Calkins and Onyett, who, with the pastor, constitute the present session.

'The congregation has gradually increased and now numbers a membership of one hundred and ninety. 'The old church building having become inadequate for the use of the congregation, it wis decided on the 21st of May, 1883, to build a new one. Since which time a handsome brick edifice, costing about $9,000, | 'and capable of seating 450 persons, has been erected 'on the site of the old church. The style of architecture | is castellated Gothic. |

Under the of Montgomery this congreg was organized near Oakland City, Gibson County, by Rev. A. J. Thomas, April 20, 1850. The elders were Henry Brown, H. P. Bryant, Harvey Montgomery, and Andrew Gudgel. From the date of the organizati is not now in a healthy condition. The ministers who have served the congregation at differ ent periods are: - A. J. Thomas, Nelson Loomis, Lewis Wilson, Levin Wilson, J. A. Lewis, E. Thoms, T. M. Walker, James Glezen, James Blackwell, W. O. San William Wilson and 0. E. Hart.

This congregation was organized by Rev. J. E. Jenkins, Nov. 5, 1870, with fifty-three members, who were previously connected with Princeton congregation, 'The elders were Cary A. Milburn, E. E. Woods, H. H. Phillips and Tribit Cunningham. 'The session nt pres-

Woods, deceased, with the addition of D. B. French, B. J. Coleman, W. J, Hall and William Stermer. 'The congregation has been served by the following pastora: - Rev. R. J. P. Lemmon, two years; Rev. J. W. Clenver, nine months, and Rev, W. M. Medealf, the present incumbent, two years and eight months, About three years igo the congregation completed and dedicated a 'substantial brick church edifice, costing nearly $6,000. At present there is a membership of one hundred and forty-seven, with a Sabbath-school having an average attendance of seventy-nine. The congregation is at present, considering its surroundings, in a healthy condition

From 1876 to 1881, the congregation suffered fom financial embarrassment, and a part of the time was without preaching. Rev. J. J. Ballas, W. R. Wright,

'The origin of this congregation carries us back as far 1809, A. D., four years before Gibson County was organized. Samuel Hogue, of Blount County, Tenn. and Robert Archer, from Chester District, South Caroina, having settled in the vicinity of where Princeton now stands, had formed themselves into a society for prayer and conference.

At their solicitation, the Rev. John Kell, a minister 'of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, visited them and pronched, in 1810, His visits were repeated in 1811, 1812 und in 1813, During his fourth visit he dispensed the sucrament of the Lord's supper.

Tt is supposed thut at this time the formal organization of the congregation was effected, with Samuel Hogue ud Thomas. Archer us ruling elders, und about twenty connuunicants, The services on the above occasion were held in the house of Robert Archer. Although nt time stronghold of this church was in the South, und especially in South Carolina, by a decision of its highest chureh court in 1800, it became henceforth an abolition church, requiring nny of its members who held slaves to cmaneipate them, upon pain of expulsion. from the privileges of the church. Slavery and ite custom were henceforth odious to them, aud they songht a retreat from it und its influences and punishts, in northern und free states. Hence, many came ew nnd free state of Indiana, and built up the of Princeton. In 1814 Robert Stormont nes W. Hogue were unde elders of the congre- Mr. Kell continued to visit the congregation settled in Princeton. Henceforth, until 1820, hho labored n missionary, having Princeton ns a cen ter. ustalled pastor of the congregation, June 21, 1420. The first meeting of Sessions, tbe rec ords of which huve becu preserved, dates July 7, 1820. 'The following members were present: - Rev. John Kell, moderator; Thomas Archer, Robert Stormont, James W. Hogue, James Lesley, Robert Milburn and Willium Crow, ruling elders. The first church built in Princeton was by this congregation, was situated on the lot just south of that on which the Cumberland Presbyterian Church now stands, was a small frame structure and was used by them from 1820 until 1888, 'That year marks au era in the history of this congregation. The pastor and a very large majority of the members held with what has been since known as the " New

Light" or " New School" party, entering the political society, against which as a church they bad hitherto testified, and from which they had withdrawn, becuse its constitution of government was atheistic, and sanetioned slarery. This left the congregation without a pastor and with but one elder, namely, Robert Stormont. The congregation was after some time resuscitated by the election of other elders. Rev. Samuel McKinney ministered to them for a time. After this, Rev. J. J. MeLurkin was from June 2, 1849, their pastor until about 1851, when Oct. 13, 1851, Bev. John Stott was installed pastor. This relation he continued to sustain until June 2, 1808, when the pastoral relation was dissolved by Synod. The church, erected about 1850 on North street, Princeton, second block from the public square east, was held by Mr. Stott and his adherents, who refused to regard the authority of Synod. Those adhering to Synod were again organized with William Lawson and James Little, ruling elders. Daniel E. Martin was "called," and on Nov. 7, 1872, orduined 'and installed pastor, which relation he has sustained up to the present time.

bouse of worship, built in 1875, is on Main Cross street, east of public square, third block, Prince ton. Of this denomination this is the only congrega. tion in connection with the Syuod of the Reformed Presbyterian or Covenanter church in Gibson County. That which distinguishes them from all other Christians is their practical testimony against the atheistic character of the Constitution of the United States, as it contains no recognition of God, Christ, the Ruler of uations, nor of the Moral Law as the rule of national and civil administration. Though loyal to all the best interests of the country, they are convinced that their loyalty is best exercised in warning the nation of those public sins which provoke the judgments of God upon a land. Though numbering but forty-one members, ita cont tion is healthy and prosperous. David Stormont, Si has seen the congregation organized three times, and is now the only remaining member of the first organiza: tion, 'The bush has been burning but not consumed. The present organization consists of D. C. Martin, pastor; William Lawson, James Watt and Josiah E. C. ithers, ruling elders; David Stormont, William Peoples and Samuel Davis, deacons and leyal trustees, with

United Presbyterian Church

When, under William of Orange, the form of the government of the Established Church of Scotland was | changed back from the Episcopal to the Presbyterian, | 'a number of the Presbyterians refused to enter the or- | ganization. Their reason for this refusal was that, under the act restoring Presbytrianiom, men could be | 'members of the church and ministers in it who did not hold the Presbyterian creed. Those who refused to go into the established church of Scotland as reorganized by King William, and their ecclesiastical descendants are known as the Reformed Presbyterian or Covenanter |

In 1792 certain ministers of the established church | of Scotland seceded from it, on account of corruption in its doctrine and tyranny in its government. "They hada considerable following. 'The organization formed by the seceders is known us the Associate Church.

In 1762 most of the members of the Reformed and the Associate churches in America united in a new organization, taking the name of the Associate Reformed Church. A small minority in each of the two communions did not go into the union, and in these minorities the Reformed and the Associate churches were present. In 1858 the Associate and Associate Reformed churches. united. 'Thus was formed the United Presbyterian Church.

In early days there were in Princeton a congregation of the Reformed Church, one of the Associate and one of the Associate Reformed. The Associate congrega- | tion was organized by Rev. James M. Henderson in | 1894. They pat up a'honse of worship. a building made of logs, one milo east of Princeton. They had ns their pastor, for a few years, Rev. John McLean, the only settled pastor they ovet had. After his release in 1649, the members, who were few in number, becoming discouraged, united, some with the Reformed congre- | gation, some with the Associate Reformed, some with | the last named congregation after it became connected with the United Presbyterian Church.

'The Reformed Presbyterian congregation was founded | by Rev. John Kell. He visited this part of the country for the first time in 1810. During that visit two fami- | lies were formed into a society for conference and | prayer. This was the beginning of the First Reformed Presbyterian Church of Princeton. The formal organization seems to have taken place in 1818. Mr. Kell visited the brethren a number of times, and, at | length, in 1816, removed to Princeton. In 1820 he

| was installed as pastor of the congregation. Ho continued to be its pastor until 1898. Both before his installation and afterward, he spent a considerable part of his time in missionary labors through the West and South.

'The next pastor of the congregation was Rev. Gilbert McMaster, D. D. His pastorate began in 1840, and continued six years. He had a richly-gifted and highly cultured mind. He was the author of several publications, some of which had a wide circulation. Before coming to Princeton he bad been pastor of a congregation in New York thirty-two years, He was repeatedly 'asked to take the position of professor of theology in 'the Theological Seminary of his church. After resigning the charge of Princeton, tho' declining to accept the professorship, he discharged, for a time, ita duties. Dr. Gilbert McMaster was succeeded ia the pastorate of the congregation by Rev. John McMaster, who en-

Vl continued. to be their pastor until his death in 1874. He was a man of superior natural ability, and his mind was well trained and well stored. He was, to an unusual de- 'gree, energetic, prudent, and devoted to his work. His "ministry was au eminently active one, and productivo 'of much good. Daring his ministry, in the year 1870, the Presbytery of which this congregation was a part united with the United Presbyterian Church. This con- 'grogation, with its pastor, thus became connected with that body. A few of the members, however, preferring not to change their church connection, organized another Reformed Presbyterian congregation, which in still kept up. A few months before the death of Dr. MeMaster, his congregation and the other United Presbyterian congregation of the place, whose earlier history will be given presently, were united in oue congrogation, with the Doctor as pastor. Shortly after the death of Dr. John McMaster, Rev. W. H. McMaster was called to the pastorate of the congregation. Ho labored 'among them until 1881, when he was released. Dur. ing his ministry, as during that of his predecessors, there were numerous accessions to the church. He was succeeded by the present pastor, J. A. Gordon, who was installed in June, 1889. From 1810, when the two families were formel into the society that was to grow into a large congregation, to 1820, the church had no house of worship of their own. Services were held in private houses. On some occasions they hind the use of a small log church belonging to the Baptiste, situated about a mile northwest from Princeton. At length they put up for themselves a small frame building, the first house of worship erected in the town. It stood just south of the spot where the Cumberland Presbyterian Church now stands. In 1882 arrangements were made for putting up a larger buil ing, but, as the people had not the means to carry on the work rapidly, the house was not finished and ree dy for occu- until 1886. This building the church used as their house of worship until 1858, when they removed to a new and larger house, which they had built, and which they still occupy. The old church became, after the property of the Cumberland Presbyterian congregation, who worshipped in it until 1838, when they took it down and began building in its place the substantial and tasteful church which is now approachcompletion. The cost of the new Reformed Pres- Dyterian Church (now the United Presbyterian), cluding the furnishing, was about $9,000. The dimensions of the church proper are seventy-five by fortyght. It will accommodate between 700 and 800 persons. There ix attached to the north end a room forty-cight feet by twenty, which is used as a prayer ig and Sabbath-school room.

'The record of this congregation in connection with the war for the Union is a most honorable one. Dr. John MeMaster said in 1871: - " At the call of their 'country, sixty-four persons, in full communion, or gene den e volunteered into her armies, and fought, and Some of them died for their country. There were no skulkers, no deserters among them, as they gathered round and fought under the red, white and blue flag of their country, the true successors of those who fought and Med us bravely under the Hue flay of the Corenant, in the hills and valleys of Scotland." The Associate Reformed Congregation of Princeton was organized in 1885, Revs. James Worth, S. C. Baldridge and John Reynolds taking part in the exercises. Mr. Baldridge continued to preach for them, and in 1897 became pastor of the congregation. He had the pastoral care of the congregation sixteen years, resigning his charge in 1853. "he historian of Princeton Presbytery says of m: - *He was a devoted and faithful laborer: under his pastorito the congregation had a substantial growth." The next pastor was Rev. Jobn L. Craig, 'who eame to them in 1854, and laborel among them ithfully and successfully antil 1865, He then left his home to serve us Chaplain in the Seventeenth Regiwent of Veteran Volunteers. A few months after entering the army he was smitten with a fever, of whieh he died.

Mr. Craig was very anxious for the union of the Associate and Associate Reformed churches, and when that union was effected, he und his congregation entered. the new organization, the United Presbyterian Church.

at a pastor until 1810, when a call from them was accepted by Rev. S. F. Clark. In 1874 he resigned his charge, in order that the way might be open for the congregation to unite with the other United Presbyterjan congregation of the town. "Proposals for union were made and cordially accepted, the eldership taking 'their place in the session of the united congregation,

The services connected with the organization of the Associate Reformed congregation were beld in a barn belonging to Alexander Huddleson. Arrangements soon made for building a church. It was inclosed in 1896, but considerable time elapsed before it was completed. It was located just south of town, but is included within the present limits of the city. It is as a private dwelling. It was the only church 'rested by that congregation. Such is a most imperfect sketch of the United Presbyterian church of Princeton. How much of the experiences, labors and sacrifices of pastors and people, and of the blessed results of their work for God, must be left untold. The congregation has now a membership of nearly 800. It has exceptionally able and faithful elders, trustees and Sabbath. school workers, and a ladies! missionary society which as done excellent service. In the eastern part of the county there are three United Presbyterian congreg tions, Eden, Somerville and Oakland. About the year 1820, Rev. John Kell, the founder of the Reformed Presbyterian congregation of Princeton, and for eighteen years its pastor, began preaching in the locality in which the first two of these churches are situated. A congregation was organized, called Forest," and a log church built. This congregation was kept ap until the death of Mr. Kell, a period of about twenty-two years.

'About the year 1895, Rev. S. C. Baldridge, of the Associate Reformed Church, visiting certain families of his ova denomination in this region, began a course of labors which resulted in the formation of the Associate Reformed congregation of Eden. After the death of Mr. Kell, most of the members of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of Fair Forest connecte themselves with this congregation. Mr. Baldridge was the pastor of the congregation, preaching for them probably one. fourth time. He was succeeded by Rev. Robert Gray, who was installed in 1856, and continued in charge of the congregation about six years. During his pastorate, through the union of the Associate and Associate Reformed Churches, Eden became a United Presbyterian congregation. Io 1858 a house of worship was built at Somerville, a few miles distant from Eden, and in 1860 congregation was organized there. Most of the members of the Eden congregation went into that of Somerville, In 1862 Mr. Gray became pastor of the Somerville church and was released the charge of Eden. In 1866 he was released from Somerville. Since that time the two congregations have been united in one pastoral charge, the pastor dividing his time between them. Rev. James McCrea was their pastor from 1868 to 1878, and Rev. W. G. Spenser from 1878 to 1882. The last named pastor died a few months since. It was the writers privilege to become person- sy acquainted with him, and to learn from others much in regard to bis character and ministry. It is but justice to his memory to say that he was an eminently faithful and devoted minister, and an eminently holy man.

'The first house of worship of the Eden congregation was a log building. In 1864 they erected a'new church, which is described as commodious and substantial 'The Somerville congregation have put up only the one building.

Ta 1882 a congregation was organized in Oakland City. of wor At present Rev. A. S. Montgomery preaching for the three congregations, Eden, Somerville and Oakland, ns stated supply. According to the last report of membership at present accessible to the writer, the number of members in the three congregations was 105.

The aggregate membership of the United Presbyterian congregations located in Gibson County would be 'about 400. A large number of United Presbyterians have removed from the county to other parts of the country. The statistics of the present membership of these congregations exhibit only a small part of their

Independent Covenanter Church

Tn 1888 Covenanters were divided into New Lights and Old Lights. The OM Lights erected and moved into a new edifico in Princeton, which is now used b that congregation. The first pastor who preached in the new eburch was the Rev. J. Stott, who still continues his ministrations in the same place; he is a m tive of Ireland and came to the United States in 1851, id to Gibson County in the sume year, and took up his residence in Princeton, where ho still resides. He states that the membership of his church comprises about seventy persons. The officers of the church con. sist of the pastor, three elders and two deacons. Ser vices are held regularly every Sabbath.

First Reformed Presbyterian Congregation Of Princeton

As the early history of this congregation and that given by the other Reformed Presbyterian are substantially the same, it was thought unnecessary to repeat.

Mr. Kell remained pastor of the congregation from Jane 24, 1820, until Sept. 24, 1835, when he resigned is charge. After he resigned his charge and until a short time before his death, which took pace Nov. 6, 1842, ho continued his untiring labors as a iligent and faithful servant of his Lord and Master. In the year 1888 there was a division in the Reformed Presbyterian Church in the United States. The congregation of Mr. Kell, however, was not effected hy it, bnt | continued the same as heretofore without any change or division, From the resignation of Mr. Kell, as above stated, May 5, 1840, the congregation had no settled pastor, bt received supplies from Presbytery. At this time Rev. Gilbert MeMastor, D. D., having received and accepted eal from the empregation, was installed pastor, which position he held ntl March 81, 1846, when he resigned his charge and retired from netive pastoral labors in the church. March IT, 1854, he was called by his Master to Ma reward.

After the resignation of Dr. Gilbert A. MeMastor Rev. John McMaster received a call from the congre gation and entered upon his labors as pastor of the | congregation the first Sabbath of Juno, 1846, and con | pastor of the congregation until 1870, when of the Reformed Presbyterian Church and connected | withthe United Presbyterian Church. Tho Wilting completed in 1896 being insuicion, was disposed of to the Lutheran congregation and a new und more commodious one erected one square farther north, and occupied in January, 1858; the same building is now occupied hy the United Presbyterian congregation. | the congregation being now left without either a set- | ed pastor or place of worship resolved upon sceuring anew building, which was completed in 1879, and

| completely destroyed by a tomado which swept over the place in Febronry, 1975, Jn five months from thet date new and more comodions building was erected and ecenpied. In the fall of 1874 the congregation made ont a call for the present pastor, who was then attending the seminary in Philadelphia, Pa. The call was by him necepted and ho ordained pastor of the congregation in the beginning of May, 1875.

n fall communion in the congregation. The raling elders, which seem to hold a prominent place in the congregation, during the pastorate of Rev. John Kell, were as follows: - Messrs, Samuel Hogue, Thomas Archer, Robert Stormont,

| McMaster, D. D., the following were the ruling elders: - Messrs, W. Hogue, Thomas Archer, Robert Milburn, | Robert Wilson, Simon Orr, Andrew Carithers and William Orr. During the pastorate of Rev. John Me- Master, D. D., the following were the ruling elders: -

Messrs. Robert Milburn, Robert Wilson, Simon Orr, 'Andrew Carithers, William Orr, Robert Erin, Robert McCurdy, James Stormont, Simon Sprowle, Archibald Warnock and Dr. W. W. Blair. During the present pastorate (that of Rev. Robert Blair) the following are the ruling oldere: - Mesars. James Stormont, John McNica, James B. Stormont and John E. Little. As far as wo aro ablo to ascertain there is but one member in the congrogation to-day that has been a member during the pastorate of Rev. John Kell. Mr. William Stormont has been a member under all the various fastorates to which reference has already been made, 'and to him we are largely indebted for the historical sketch herein given. The officers of the congregation aro pastor, ruling elders and trustees. As a church the principal points on which we differ from some others 'are, wo aro Calvinistic in doctrine, use nothing in worship but inspired Psalmody, adhere to what is known. close communion, and do not admit members of secrot orders to our communion.

Methodist Episcopal Church

Indians, with 89,809 square miles of territory, and nearly 2,000,000 of inhabitanta, was nothing more than 'one vast wilderness, the home of the wild beast and the savage.

In 1710 we find a French trading post at Vincennes, and in 1796 a colony, which for many years maintained friendly relations with thor Indians. While yet in this 'arly stage of settlement and development, wo find th Methodist preacher, having taken the "world for hi parish," in the midst of thé few white setters in search. of the "lost sheep of Israel."

Methodism was fire introduced into Indiana in what was known as Clark's grant, which included parts of Clark and Floyd counties. A local preacher by the name of Hugh Cll settled in what was known as White Water country, in 1805. He was without doubt the frei local preacher that trod Indiana soil, and to him, perhaps, more than to any other one man, we are indebted for the establishing of Methodism in the east- 'em part of the state, There being as yet no itinerant preacher in that part of the territory where he had lo- 'cated, ho began himself the work of evangelization. He invited to- his own vase all the families who were in roach, that he might pftach to them. He also visited other settlements, preaching and establishing preaching places. As soon as the "Tntinerants" came in reach, be 'went afr them, bringing them to his own house, of

'hich Bev. Jacob Young, in his autobiography, speake 'ass "most hospitable home for Methodist preachers." He was an active and infuential member of the convention which formed the first constitution of the state. He bad the fall confidence of all who knew him. He died on theist of August, 1862, at the remarkable age of 104 years and 10 months. Some knowledge of and, familiarity with the genius of Methodism is essential in order to have anything like an intelligent idea of the means of propagation and progress along the frontier. Methodism chose as ite ideal an evangelical lif and in theology ite chief concern was with these doctrines which were essential to personal religion. In his conference of 1786, Wesley said: "In 1729, my brother and I read the Bible; we saw inward and outward holiness therein: we followed after it, and incited others to doso. In 1787, we saw this holiness comes by faith, and God 'thrust us out' to raise a holy people." The words thrust out have ever been the watchword of Methodiem. From the seats of learning, from the centers of population and civilization, from the centers of moral and religious influence, it has "thrust out" ite wotaries to the very borders of civilization, into the midst of the most uncultured and vicious society, and by the matchless power of the great head and founder of the church, under its influence the "wilderness was made to blossom as the rose."

Scarcely had the pioneer erected bis rudo cabin in the dense forest ere a Methodist itinerant, being "thurst out" for the work, was at the door with the "word of life." 'The first circuit in Indiana was called White Water, and belonged to tbe Ohio district, in the old western | conference. This conference embraced the states of | Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Missouri, Ohio, Ind- | iana and and a preacher of this conference was | liable to be sent, from year to year, to any part of it bounds; nor had they the facilities for travel that wo of today have. To enter the itinerecy, then, required more devotion to the cause of the Redeemer, a greater spirit of self-sacrifice, and more courage than men ordinarily possess. This circuit was formed in 1807. But as the object of this sketch is to furnish a brief tory of Methodism in Gibson County, we turn to notice more especially that portion of the state.

As early as 1811, we have reasons to believe a Methodist society bad been formed at Patoka, on the Pa- "toka River; for in the minutes of the conference of 1812 'there appears the name of Patoka circuit, with Benjamin Edge as preacher. In 1818 the old western conference was divided or discontinued, and the Ohio and the Tennessoe conferences were formed out of it. This gear the name of Patoka disappears. Being the year 'when the war with England and her Indian allies was in fall blast, the exposures and privations of the itinerant preachers were greatly increased.

with them as they traveled from fort to fort to preschr to their flocks, in order to defend themselves from the Indians. This state of things necesearily deranged the plans of circuits and classes, but did not destroy their religious fervor. Not until 1815 does the name of Patoka circuit appear again. This year it appears with John Scripps as preacher. About this time (1815) a society was formed at Princeton, the present county sent. The Methodists had their first preaching place in Princeton in a dog-wood grove that covered the ground now occupied by the residence of Samuel Patten. The residences of Mr. Harrington, Mrs. Chapman and otbers, were occupied as preaching places, and to these 'early homes in Princeton many blood-washed spirits look down from their home on high, as the place where they "first their Savior found, and felt their sins forgiven." In Patoka the Methodists continued to worship in private dwellings until about 1825, when they went from the house of Bro. Stewart to the school-house where they continued to worship until they built their first church, about 1852. The following are the first itinerant Methodist preachers of Gibson County: - 1815, John Serippe; 1816, Thomas King; 1817, Thomas Davis; 1818, Charles Slocum; 1819, John Wallace 'nd Daniel McHenry; 1820, John Wallace; 1821, Elias Stone; 1822, James Thompson; 1823, Ebenezer T. 'Webster; 1824, William Medford. With these may be coupled the names of Richard Hargrove, Enoch Woods, Daniels, Shumate and Elijah Whitten. These were the men, though stigmatized "itinerant circuit riders,". who first threaded the Indian traces and the newly blazed ways in search of the lost sheep of the House of Israel. They were the men who swam rivers, who slept alone in the woods at night, that they might carry the glad tidings of salvation to the first settlers. They are 'worthy of being held in everlasting remembrance. Indiana is more indebted to the itinerant Methodist preachers for the high position she now occupies in edmention and Christianity, than to any other class of men. The first Methodist Episcopal church was built in Princeton about 1838. One of the active members in rising subscriptions to build it was Judge Elisha Embree. He said "they had been driven from private dwellings, and from the jail, and from the court house, and he proposed now that they build a house of their own." The judge was raised under the influence of "Universalism." After his conversion, he examined carefully the various churches, their creeds, confessions of faith, polity, ete., and came to the conclusion that the Methodist Episcopal church came the nearest to his idea of a Bible church, and prophesied that it would become the church, for the conversion of the world. He accordingly united with it, remaining a most earnest and efficient worker till his death. In connection with him might be mentioned the names of Sisters Embree, Catherine and Jane Brownlee, William and Nency Har-

COUNTY, INDIANA. ington, Mrs. Daniels, James Kirkman and Mr. Downey, two of whom are yet living; the others having finished their labors, are gone to receive their reward. The present church building in Princeton is a very large, imposing brick structure, with audience room, two elassrooms and gallery, erected a} a cost of At the time of this writing (1884), there are five regular organized pastoral charges in the county. The following are the names of the charges, with the name of the present pastor: - Fort Branch, Rev. Joseph Rawlins; Oakland, Rev. George Whitman; Owensville, Rev. J. T

Woods; Patola, Rev. Gideon Heavenridge; Princeton, T. H. Willis; all of whom are young men, Rev. Gidcon Heavenridge being the senior preacher, and he as fresh and fair and vigorous as the name would indicate. Within the bounds of these changes are four parsonage valued at $4,500; fourteen churches, valued at $30, (000 ; a membership of 1,060; fourteen Sunday-schools, 'ith an enrollment of 1,160 scholars.

Evangelical Church

'The congregation was formed during the Intter part of the decade of 1840 or the beginning of 1850, and from a small beginning the growth has been gradual and healthy. The first pastor was Rev. Weil, of the Lutheran Synod; he served them for about u year. After he left he established a Lutheran church at Hahnville, to which about one-third of the congregation followed him - the remaining two-thirds comprised about thirty members. A new preacher, Rev. Adams, was called. He served the congregation about a year; his suecessor was Rey. Schrenk, who lived in Darmstadt, and preached here once in two weeks. This was prior to 185 from which year all meetings and records were kept the regular record books. In 1856 Rev. Bichler devised rules and by-laws for the congregation, which were scoepted. The old church could not accommodate the meetings, and during the year 1865 a new edifice was built and Rev. Gülbue was called under his pastoral charge. The congregation joined the Evs gelical Union of the West. The present name of this ecclesiastical body is the Evangelical Synod of North America. From 1869 to April, 1884, Rev. J. Rausch administered to the congregation. The congregation is the possessor ofa new commodious church, and pipe organ, ete. The old church is kept in good repair sod used as a parochial school. It is located in

Jobmson Town ince 1854 there have been bap- | Pepersuck resided at St, Wendel, with Father We tized in thie church 402 children and 207 confirmed. | roepfel, while the later supeintended the building of 'The present pastor is Rev, R. Miler | the church, which was completed and blessed in October, 1855. ` The church is Roman style, 108x50 feet, with a chapel beneath the sanctuary, 22x21 feet. The sime year a brick parsonage of seven rooms waa built, and Father Popersack took possession and remained until June, 1866, A beautiful altar and organ were pro. cured hy him. Ho left the church property free of debt. Ho was succeeded by Rev. M. Ficker, who died July 18, 1808. He built a brick school house 42x82 feet, sa costing $8,000. Tho Benedictine fathers had charge of "Through the courtesy of Rev. J. J. Merckl, we have | St. James from July to September, 1808; from Sep- 'boon furnished with the data and an article for the com- | tember, 1868, to spring of 1875, Rev. J. B. H. Seepe pletion of a brief sketch of this church in Gibson | was the pastor. He enriched the church with two 'The oldest congrogution in St. James, at the | beautiful side altars and many splendid vestments. He name. Futhor Canckart,n Redemptorist, | asked to bo removed on account of ill health. From the residing in Tilinois, the first priest who is known to | time of Father Seepe's removal to July 12, 1875, the lavo visited the district of St. James congregation, He | Bonedietine Fathers again took charge, On July 12, 1875, celebrated holy mass in the house of Mr, F. X. Weis, | Rov. J. J. Mercki, the present pastor, was appointed in 1886, and ndministered the merament to his dying | He added u sacristy to the church, repaired the pa mother. He continued to visit her sonne, froscood thechurch and furnished it with stained 1857. Rev. A. Deydier, of Byansvil glass windows, seated it with now pows, and bought m to tho congregation until 1810. From the th of April, | fine chime of three bells and added a story to the 1640, to May, 1842, tho Rov. Roman Weiuzocpfel, | school house. He also built the now church at Haubsistant priest nt Evansville, had chargo of St. Jumos | stadt, two miles from St. James, St James numbers mission offering the holy sacrifice of the mass in the | over 190 f und has 120 children in its school. onse of Andrew From October, 1842, until | The church property is valued at $85,000, Tho pious the latter part of 1845, tho mission was in charge of | and able Father Merskl was born near Cincinnati, Rev. Conrad Schniederjans, whoresided at St, Wendel. | Ohio, Oct 15, 1849; in 1865 ho came with his parents During his time a log church, 85x25 foot, was erected, | and settled nt Dover, Dearborn County, Ind. At thenge nt the bishop refused to permit divine services until he | of seventeen he became student of the Bene wax in possession of the deod to the property. This | College at St, Meinrad, studied natural and was effected on the return of Father Weinzoepfel in | philosophy nt Bardstown College, Ky. His April, 1840, and to chapel was blessed on July 25, | studios were bogun and completed at St. Meinrad; was 1847. Bishop Bazin wnthorized the pastor to rent the | ordained Nov. 2, 1879, and 'assigned to Holy Trinity sents in the chapel, but the action so incensed certain | Church, Evansville, to assist Father Kuttasy. After parties that they broke open the church on the night of | the death of the pastor, Oct, 28, 1874, until the end of Jan. 28, 1848, and destroyel the pews, Father Wein- | May, 1875, he Ind charge of the congregation. zopfel wns dragged into court upon a charge of break- | - Cuvnen ar Havnsrapr. - The Catholics of this place, ing the Sabbath, ete, The bishop interdieted the | prior to 1806, belonged to St. James congregation. chapel, which remained so until July 25, 1860, but | The school at St. James being too small to accommoranted permission to celebrate mass in the house of | dato the children, by the consent of the bishop and Mr. Barth Reinhart, on August 24, 1848, The turbu- | pastor, a frame school-house was built at Haubstadt in lent element finally did penance and repaired damages | 1860; size, 60x26 feet. In 1867 a frame dwelling of done. St, James has since enjoyed uninterrupted pence | four rooms was built for the teacher, and ten years | and harmony. Tho congregation increasing, the chapel | ter the church was built, under charge of Rev. J. J. became too small. In April, 1868, seven additional | Merckl. On tho 12th of July, 1877, Haubstadt received seres of land were bought. In the month of March, | its first resident priest, Rev. George Widerin. The 1865, Rev. F. W. Pepersack, newly ordained, was ap- | comer-stone of the church was laid Aug. 5, 1877, and pointed pastor of St. James, its first resident priest. | September 2 mass was celebrated for the first time ju Father Weinzoopfel had secured eubrcription and ma- | the school-house. Very Rev. August Bessonier, V. G., terial for the new church, The corner-stone was laid | blessed the cemetery on Sept, 27, 1877. Ho also Joly 26, 1856, by the Right Rev. Maurice de St. Pa- | blessed the now church May 12,1878. 8. 8. Peter and his, Rev. J. B. Classe preached the English and | Paul are the patron saints of tbe congregation at Haub- Rev. Leonard Brandt the German sermon. Father | stadt. Father Widerin having labored zealously and successfully, was removed at his own option, and then the Rex. Benard Ewers became pastor. "The congregution numbers upwards of eighty families.

tor at St. James. Up to this time Prinecton Catholics | _ The clergymen of this denomination were among the ers of St James Church. Rev. M. Kicker _ frst to preach the gospel in this county. Rev. Stephen

When the mission recived its fis. resident pas. won many a sinner from the error of his der Koniara On hie arrival a par. | ways and enrolled him amang the soldiers of the roe.

Ber, Gage Widerin, pastor at | Stopher Strickland and wife raived a (amily of Haubstadt, hal charge from July 15, 1677, to February, | five sons and four daughters; all, however, 1878, Rev. B. H. Kiutriep, the second resident priest, | have passed away except one son - the venerable Rev. from Murch 3 to Nor. 3, 1878. Then Father Widerin | James Strickland, Sr., who i» a prominent minister of oo 1879, when Rev. A. Oster | this church, Stephen Strickland had been a minister attended it from Vincennes, until February, 1880, Two | of the Regular Baptist Church some forty years prior acres of ground were purchased fora ce to his death, which occurred on the 10th of July, 1839. Next, Rev. John Jos. Mucke visited the place from | There have been six societies organized from first to Vineennes, to Aug. 10, 1830. Rev. Celestine Schwarz | last in this county: Patoka Church, in the town of priest, from Dec. 7, 1880, Patoka, about 1810, by Rev. Willian Hanks aud others, June, 1882. The next pastor was Rev. and has numbered seventy-five members. The Pigeon Pecksknmp, who was appointed Aug. 10, 1882, He Church, five miles south of Princeton, was organized provided the church with nev sets of vestu somewhere about 1811, by Rev. Stephen Strickland, bat soon after ite formation was dissolved, and ut this Sv. Bassas Cuenca is situated about ten miley late day we are unable to give the number of members southeast of Princeton, and numbers over thirty fami. | then belonging to the church, The third congregation lies. Prior to the formation of a congregation, the the Salem Church, at Owensville, It was consti-

Catholics were members of 5t. James Chnrch. Rev. A. jm 1812 by Elders Willem Hanks and Ja Koesters, of Princeton, bought four acres of gro Mootry, with members. Boon after exganisn- school, parsonage sud cemetery, He also iu- | a log church was built about three miles west of Owensville. About 1940 the congregation moved into good frum and the very rapidly wn it reached 150, amber of members at last report was 100. Elder Mootry was tho first regular pastor; to minister to this congregation, a the second, and remained for several years, Elder Jeremiah Cash succeeded Whitney. Ho iv spoken of as an able man, and it was under ministry that the el was moved to town. The membership increased under his pastoral charge. Ho went to Kentucky, where be died about the year 1850. Elder D. B. Piper labored here three years. Others who preached here Rev. Alexander Devin, um Polk. Rev. Joel Hume, who is still a resident of Owensville, became the pastor iu 1647 | and served au regular minister until 1872, a period of ac junta, whet sppommabing. age thd health admonished to rest from his labors Mr.

Hume was bom in Campbell now Kenton Co. Ky., June 18, 1807. He made a profession of religion ig 1829, was ordained to preach in December, 1895, wh he became pastor of Vermillion Church, Ky. He minister of recoguized ability. About the close of the war the congregation built the present church edifice. It i a frame structure 50170 feet and cost a bout $8,000 'The present pastor is Elder John T. Oliphant.

Providence Church, eleven miles southeast of Prin ton, was constituted in 1822 by Revs. Stephen Strick- David Banta, This church has continued to thrive in the vineyard of the Lord, and now numbers at the lust report 204 members.

'New Salem Church, twelve miles south of Princeton. was organized in 1888 by Elihu Holcomb and Lari Burelield. This church was dissolved by reason of the death of ite pastor and the encroachment of the 'German population.

' of worship, and large and apprecilr Devin, David Banta and James Mootry. 'The present ministers now in the county are James Strickland, Joel Hume, of Owensville, and Joba T. Oliphant, of Fort Branch.

The origin of the Genéral Baptist Church in this county reaches back to 1829, when Elder Jacob Speer moved from the state of Tennessee, and settled south of. Priuceton. lo January, 1890, he organized Enon | Church of Baptista, with seven members. This church | united with the Liberty Association of General Baptists | in the fall of 1881. Elder Speer continued to preach | regularly, aud success followed his labors. Many other | however, are still in existence, and most of them in a Prosperous condition, which are as follows: - Owensvile | Church, in the town of Owensville, now under the pae |

Columbia Church is about three miles southwest of Princetou; was constitoted in 1848, and at present has a membership of 104. Elder William Clark is the pastor.

The church at Fort Branch is now under tbe ministerial charge of Elder Willis Charles, of Evansville, Ind. It was organized in 1861, and now numbers forty. six members.

'The church in the town of Hazleton was formed in 1866, and at this writing has a membership of eighteen. The pastor is Elder H. C. Cockrum.

A congregation was organized at Oakland in 1808. The pastor is Elder F. H. Wood. The church now numbers eigbty-nine members. Elder Wood is also the pastor of Forsythe Church, located west of Somerville. It was organized in 1881, and numbers 100 members.

Pleasant Grove, eight miles cast of Fort Branch, was constituted in 1861. The pastor is Elder G. W. Hogan: the membership numbers sixty-seven.

'The following are the names of the General Baptist ministers now living in Gibson County : - Princeton - A. H. Polk, Felix Polk, J. Latham and Joseph Neely; Owensville - Jacob Speer, William Clark, W. P. Halo and D. B. Montgomery; Fort - T. M. Strain, H. C. Chiston, and F. H. Wood; Hazleton - H. C. Cockrum; Francisco - G. W. Hogan, G. T. Hu son; Oskland - J. G. Lane, L. Houchin, E. Malone. Elder Jacob Speer was born in 1801, Elder T. M. Strain 1815, and Elder A. H. Polk is about the same age as Mr. Strain. Frequent mention is made of these three names in D. B. Montgomery's "History of General Baptists," published in 1882. The balance of these names are comparatively youug men, except Elders Lane, Chiston, Houchin and Neely, who are middleaged. of the above mentioned churches except Forsythe have comfortable houses of worship of their own.

amid its timbered shades. The pioneers were a hardy race. That it was snecessful was owing to the dauntless and persevering cuerzy of the first settlers: for it wus no enviable task to clear the forest, brenk the stubborn glebe and the lari ent to genine pioneer life. Those early settlers of one origin, language. religion, with political 'and patriotic sentiments identical with coumaon bisors und the mane traditions, They were of the in working class, brought with them litte 'world calls wealth, but what is better, strong a pleas cont, held at the house of Harrington, May 10, 191%, Judge Harrington's onse was situated the southeast quarter of Section 11, Township: Tone ite und a half southwest uf die present conrt bouse. The conrt ordered tnt "all that traet of conutry lying between Patoka River und | Anderson's Creek from the mouth thereof and np the | same to where John Barber now lives, thence due sonth to the line of Warrick shall form a township to be kuown ns Patoka." Since then the boundaries have ud it js now next to the largest civil divisi Tt is now bounded on the worth by White River and Washington Townships, east by Center and Barton, sonth hy Johnson, the southenst, au C In the western portio of dite sad tile dining, to carry off the snrwater fret the h Originally, the whole surface was euere with « heavy growth of. timber, the greater purt of which been cleared and race iuto rich ad we impres bluffs wf the Wabash and White Rivers. In the west- 'ern part of the township there ix considerable bottom and the "Sand Ridge" posses through the southwestern portion. + lu fertility, the soil is not surpassed by nuy other t is particularly adapted to the misi ualler of which it produces abundant crops: Grasses, coro, fruit and all ies of vegetables ulso reap n rich reward for the. van. with good con tds iu every direction, uud the Louis- & St. Lonis Railroad passing frous enst manufacturer excellent fucilities for the shipment of their products and wares. 'ousidering ull tle advantages of Potoka Township, it is wot surprising that it was prosperous, anl became fone of the wealthiest and most populous ju the count SETTLERS within the present limits of Patoka Towusl imade soon lud, however, settled river, ut Severus" bridge, near the northern line of this township, several years prior to 1800, and the first 'white man to locate permanently in Gibson County. A full account of the Severns family is given in the chapter on piouecrs uui early settlers, to which the readeris referred.

| wife Sarah aud family emigrated from that state to Kentucky, and after remaining there a few years, again set ont to penetrate further iuto the wilderness. Crousing the Obio River at a point where Evansville now | stands, followed the Indian wrtlwardin serch of « suitable site to make his future home, He first | stopped and built a small vin about oue mile and w Î half southwest of Princeton ow the MeCunly farm, where he remained until the fall of 1807, then located permanently a few miles northeast of Priucctou, where he resided until his death. Hie arrival here | was probably iu the fall of 1802. He had a family of six children - Rebecea, Elizabeth, Mary, Jacob and Jolm, partly grown when they came, The father aud some of the sous were great buuters, aud y of rangurs iu the It isvelated that in tho winter, after vel away und started for wks. aud that Jacob pursued following their til to camel Gun at the place where 'Their nearest ucighbors erus and the Robbs a litte farther worth, | The next of any uote was the old soldier, Captain William Hargrove. He was bom in | South Carolina, in 1775, and while still a lad moved with his parents to Pulaski County, Ky., where ho grew to manhood and married Sarah Jasper. A few years after bis marriage, concluding to muke a change in location, be loaded what worldly goods he posscssed pack mules, and with his wife and three children, | started for Missouri. Reaching the vicinity of where | Princeton now stands, iu the latter part of November, | 1808, he was well pleased with the beauty and fertility of the surrounding country thut he decided to no further, and immediately erected a rade log cabin in the southern part of Section 36, Township 1 South, Rauge 11 West, on the farm where the Hon. Robert Mitchell now resides. He ufterward settled and im. proved the present Isane Wood's farm, just north of Princetou, aud continued to live there until 1896. Harrove was u bold aud fearless man, one who had been reared ou the frontier; and had participated in the In- 1 diam troubles in Keutucky, where at an carly age he won notoriety as a scout and Indian fighter. He familiar with Indian customs and well fitted to de. fend himself and family in the wilderness he bad de. cided to make his future abode. At the breaking out of the Indiu wars in 1811, be was oue of the first to raise | a ecmpauy and tender them to Gen. Harrison at Viu cenues. He was in command of a company at the battle of Tippecanoe, and served aa a ranger in the war of 1812-14, rising to the rank of colonel. He was an intelligent and useful citizen and a man greatly respected by all who knew Me raised a large and gent family of children - fourteen in. many 'of whose descendants are living iii the county. In 1836 of Oakland, sud resided there in death, about ten years later.

ther, und sister Martha and her husband, Isaac. Montgomery. In 1806 James MeClare built and operated u tan yard, the first in the county, and continued in that In le tanned a large

Mr, M:Clure reared a large family of childre His son Joseph P. MeClure, residing two miles south of Princeton, is one of the substantial and prominent farmers in the couuty. Isaac Montgomery settled the James Finney farm, and built a horse mill there soon After he came, of the first in Indiana Territory. Montgomery was à very prominent and infuential man in early history of the country. He was a soldier in the ranging service, and wns at the battle of Tippecanoe, Sept. T, 1811. In 1813 he was associate judge on the beuch with Judge William Harrington, and subsequently represented the county in the state legislature. for n term of twelve years, and held many other offices mor and trust, He had a family of nine children, John R., was county clerk for eight years. He wns a fine marksman, and great lover of the chase, ama in carly days when game was plentiful he frequently indulged in the sport. He remained an honored and respected citizen of Gibson antil about 1852, when with his son McGrady, moved to Texas. Before going he purchased a large ride, aud nearly the first thing he did after encamping in tliat state was to kill a large binek bear. He died there a few years afterward.

'The name of Gen. Robert M. Evans is probably more familiar to the citizens of Gibson County than that of any other pioneer settler. He was boru in Virginia in 1798, aud while yet a boy went to Kentucky with hin parents, where be married Jane Treble. In 1805 he moved with his family to Indiana Territory and settled the timber about two miles north of where Princeton now stands. He resided there until 1809, when be moved to Vincennes and kept hotel in a frame house on Market Street. After remaining there two years, Be returned to his improvements in Gibson County. In 1811 he joined Gen. Harrison's army, and immediately after his taking command, he was appointed ove of the General's aida. He proved such an efficient officer that be was appointed by Harrison a brigadier general, and

| placed in command of a large body of militia. He served throngh the war, aud was ut Tippecanoe, Thames And other important engagements. At the formation M Gibson County be was appointed clerk, und held | Sit ponian vll HOLD, wise rcgi, Ho was | the prime mover in organizing the county, and almost at New Harmony. He died at E His brothers, James, Alexander Lyle and Th | ferson Evans, settled in Princeton in 1810, where 0 were gaged in business. James Wheder, n North Carolinian, with a large family, also arrival in the | sese neighborhood iu the year 1805. He located a few miles southeast of the MeChures. - William Latham, who reared a large and respected family af children, 'came the same year aud settled near the present Robert Mitchell place, mile and a half north of Princeton. 'The name of Williaa Latham is frequently seen on thi records of the county. There were also a few other settlements made iu this vicinity in 1803 and during the following year, but few, if any, were permane With the year 1807 cume n number of families, who ve occupied trustworthy positions in the history of the county and whose improvements were of n listing character. Among the first of these was William Harrington, a native of North Carolina, In carly years he had gone from that state to Tennessee, the to Kentucky, and from there to thin county in the spring of 1807. He stopped and raised n crop Branch, and in the fall ments of John Johuson, on the present in Section 11, one mile west of Princeton, where he continued to reside his death about 1891. Me was a soldier in the Indian wars, and fought in the battle of Tippecanoe Two of bis sons, Charles and James, were also in the service, the fermer being 'wounded and the. latter killed by the Indians near Ft. Harrison. At the organization of the com

Pleas Court, and held that position of the state. He was for many years one of the lending citizens, aud the first in all movements teuding to benefit aud improve the people which he lived. He reared 'a family of tcn children:

Jane, the widow of Jobn Brownlee, is She resides in Princeton, and is eighty-one yeurs of 'Thomas and Williams Archer, brothers, left the Chester District, South Carolina, their native country, in the antumu of 180. And after remaining one season in Kentucky, started in a four-horse wagon for Indiana Territory. They crossed the Ohio at Red Banks, and followed the old trail to this settlement, arriving in the fall of 1800 Thomas brought a family with him, and | William married Annie Peters after he came to the 'county. They both located in the Robb settlement,

'The following year jWibliam-returned to Gouth Carolina | of thirteen children. Their descendante have Égupel and brought his father, Robert Archer, and the remain- ; prowineutly in the business and political circle of the der of the family to the county. Robert Archer settled mile northwest of Princeton, near the old cemetery. Ho was a soldier in the Revolutionery War. He died after residing hero nbout teu years. Capt Henry Hop- | kine came the rane year, or probably a little earlier. | He settled on the Sanford Howe place, and entered | several large bodies of land in this county. He was a skillful workinau, and a man familiar with the manners and customs of Indian warfare. At the beginning of the Indian troubles he raised a company of the bravest und most stalwart pioneers in the settlement, drilled bud them in readiness to protect the families should any incursions have been mado by the savages. [n 1811 he took his company to Vincennes and joined Gen. Harrison's army in the campaign against Tecumwhich he and his followers performel a conspi enous part. Capt. Hopkins was the second sheriff of Gibson County, and held many other minor offices of trust with honor to himself and satisfaction to the peo: ple. In after years ho became a citizen of Warrick County, where he died. Joseph Woods, the pioneer of 'that numerous family in Gibson County, also camo to Indiana in 1807. He stopped for the first season on the river Du Shea, and then came down and located on Turkey Hill in Section 28 of Range 2, Township 11. He was an Irishman by QED, mu was principally | reared in Virginia. He came to this county from Ten- | nessee with a family of ten children, some of whom had families when they came, and the others married, all settled around him. They came on horseback i in wagons, crossing the Ohio at Red Banks. This family made quite an increase to the population, and vicinity was known for many years as the Woods settlement. Joseph L. Woods, nuother son, came in | 1811. The old father Woods and his son last named | were celebrated hunters in their day, and always kept | eir cabins well stored with the wild meats and honey | of the forest. Samuel H.and luae Woods were at | Tippecanoe.

Daniel Putnam, one of the early associate judges, and a man who figured conspicuously in the early his tory of the county, settled in the Pigeon Creek neighborhood in 1807. He is mentioned mare fully in another part of this work. Zachariah Taylor also stopped | in the samo settlement.

Rev. Alexander Devin, a Virginian, and one of the Baptist ministers in Gibson County, was among tho earliest arrivals in 1808, landing here with his family in March of that year, He settled and improved | a tra of land about a half mile north of Princeton. | In 1614 be moved on the northeast quarter of Section | 30, Range 2, Township 10, now a part of the farm on | mhich bis sou-in-law, Joseph P. McClure, lives. Mr. | Devin and wife were married in 1798, and had a family

John Braselton, a native of Georgia, was another prominent settler of 1808. He came here from Kentueky with his family and goods on pack mules, and located in the Pigeon settlement about four miles uorth 'east of Fort Branch. In the fall of 1810, when the citizens became alarmed about tbe Indians, Mr. Braselton moved his family into Fort Hopkius, and joined Captain Hargrove's company and served in the campaign against Tecumseh. After his return he perinaneatly located just south of Princeton, in Section 18, the west side of the state rond. At the organiza. tion of the county, he was appointed a justice of the peace and served in that capacity for a number of years. About 1817 be built a tannery on bis place, Which he conducted on quite large scale. The hides, which he tanned on shares, were brought to him for miles around, and the business was very profit- He died in Princeton and left large posterity. 'Steplien Strickland, a pioneer minister of the Regular Baptist denomination, located in Section 85, Township 2, Range 10, in the year 1808, He bad a family ot five sons and four daughters, all of whom are deceased but the youngest, Rev. James Strickland, residing a few miles southeast of Princeton. Rev. Btrickland had served in the ministry over forty years prior to his death, July 19, 1889. John Clements and family the county in 1809; was i 'one of those brave pioneers who went to the relief of Ft Harrison. He was unable to endure the hard 'marches and fatigue incident to the campaign and wat taken sick and died within the walls of the fort. William Barker came from Tennessee with 1800. Eli Strain arrived in 1810, and lived a mile arid half west of Princeton. He was at Tippecanoe and was killed by a falling tree in 1829. Chauncy Pierce and John C. Fisher also arrived about the same time. There were quite a number of families came in the early part of 1810, but immigration was soon petarded as the people were becoming alarmed at the news of Tecumseh's conspiracy. It was in the summer of this year that this celebrated Indian chieftain began organizing his forces at the Prophet's town, and the settlers were hourly expecting to hear of some Indian &trocity, and joining together they immediately constructed forts or stockades, in which they placed their families for safety against the savages. Three of these were built in what is now Patoka Township - Fort Branch, Fort Hopkius, near the old cemetery northwest of Princeton, and a stockade at William Harrington's, on the McCurdy place. A fulldeseription of these fortifcations, as well as a more extended sketqh of the

Joshua Embree came with his family, cousistiog of his wife and six children, from Kentucky, in Novem ber, 1611, and settled about two nud a half miles south of Princeton. He did uot live more than a year after he came bere. Judge Elisha Em ree his son, became of the most prominent men in the county. The Stormonts and several other families arrived in 1612. Mrs. Nancy Stormont, widow of David Stormont, who emigrated from Ireland, and settled in South Caroline prior to the Revolutionary War, came to the county with her mother, Mrs. Mary Boyd, and a family of eight children. Mrs. Boyd was the first person buried in the Archer graveyard. They located avout two 'half miles northwest of Princeton. where David Stor mont, the ouly survivor of the now resides James Kirkman came in 1813. His son Joseph J., who 'was sheriff for several years, is well remembered by the citizens. This was the ye was organized and inunigration set in qui aring the next around Princeton, while the men were ont prospecting for a suitable location to make a settlement, and it would be impossible to attempt to name the have a few of the leadis came in this township ench y be fonnd in pioneer, school, church and other chapters, to which the render is referred. TI inerense in the popa the first sett ade, and the cents of 1880 gave it a pop ding the city of Princeton

The rliest schools were taught abont 1809 or "10, in small log cabins. The first teachers were Adley Donuk? david Buck, Maj. Janus Smith, Ira Bostwick and 'The first chnreh in the township was

Vegan of the old settlers early as y Devin and Steph mister», settled in the com ue 1810, and Rev. Joh wit rider, about 1812. The township ty supplied with well made and cou and el geographical center of Gibson County. The Louisville, Evansville & St. Lonis, and the Evansville & Terre Haute milroads form a junction in the northwestern part of the city.

The act organizing Gibson Comity was approved March 9, 1813, and William Prince, Robert Elliott, Abel Westfall and William Polk, having been appointed 'commissioners to locate the seat of justice, reported at a special meeting of the common pleas court, held Feb. 14, 1814, that they had selected the northeast quarter of Section 7, in Town 2 South, Runge 10 West. Robert M. Evans, who had been appointed agent, was instructed to enter the above described tract, which he did together with the southeast quarter, Feb. 12, 1814, and afterward deeded the northeast quarter to the

Te ix eighteen poles square and four poles. It is situated nearly the center of Section 7, a few feet west of the lin dividing it frou cast to west. The original town was aid ont on part of the Hopkins donation, and part of ots commenced on the Monon the corner southesst of th to Alexander Devin, for $61.50, Mr. Devin also pur chased several other lots for a smaller snm. On the Ist duy of April James Stone a lot for SGL. 20, and A. Donnell paid $53 for z Joseph Stoker paid $150 e and William Barker purchased a mimber of Jots, nt various prices, aud seems ta have been quite a specnlator. The sales continued rather brisk for a and compared with the relative value of money the prices for those wild timbered lots were very liberal, and shows that the pioneers had great confidence iu the future growth and prosperity of the place, fortunate one in the contest; hence the name Princeton. | Capt. Prince was a native of Ireland and emigrated to the United States in 1804, and settled in Vincennes. He adopted the law as a profession, in which he became very prominent and successful. He was appointed Indian agent of the territory of Indiana, at an early day, | and was a resident of this vieinity before the town was laid out. He was the first prosecuting attorney of the ul was appointed resident judge in 1816. He uber of Congress elected from Gibson | County, and held many other minor offices. He resided and practiced law in Princeton for a number of years. For u few years prior to his death, he lived on his farm a short distance from town. At the time of the location of the county seat, there to have been quite x little settlement here. Capt. Prince lived in a small log honse on the lot ¡corge N. Jeranld's residence now stands. Samnel P. Hogue had a cabin that stood in the street nearly in front of Judge Land's present residence, and when the town was laid ont he built a two-story hewed log ite of Hugh Cs He was a carpenter, and assisted in making doors and wood work in the first court house, and rly county treasurers. Samuel Hogue, a brother of the above, resided the corner of Hart and Water streets. He was a blacksmith and wagon maker, and afterward built a shop on the same lot, and n of Princeton, began working with and in a few months beeune a partner i the business, The Hones came to the county wi Woods fam orge Humphreys lived opposite, north of where the Air Line depot now stands. He carried on gardening extensively for those days, aud it was from him that the north part of the place rethe name of "Potatotown." He moved away 1826. Jese Wells resided near the present Zenith Mills, and made brick which was used for building Zachariah Skelton lived on the ond the square after ths town was laid out. " y of 1814, pleased with the situation, he purchased the half acre the corner south of the southeast corner of thc square, and immediately set to work to build d two-story hewed log house, 36 by 20 feet. This build- stood on the site of Lewis Kolb's grocery store. After its completion Mr. Chapman returned to Kentucky and brought ont his family, arriving November 14, 1814, having occupied just thirteen days in the trip. He moved into his house and established a hotel, boarding a portion of the hands that worked on the court house, He named his house the 'Travelers' Inn," and continued in it until March, 1815, when he sold out to James Russell, who was one of the first licensed tavern keepers in Princeton.

The first store house was constructed of logs, two stories in height, and was situated on the comer west of the southwest comer of the square. It was erected by Willis C. Osborn, who brought a small stock of general goods here from Vincennes, in the latter part of 1814, and was the first merchant in the place. He was associate judge from October, 1814, until after the state was admitted, in 1816. There had been some goods sold before this by a Frenchman, who kept a small assortment in the "Long 'Oruery." He was not here more than two or three weeks, and did not deserve the name of merchant. The Long 'Omery consisted of a half dozen small cabins built very closely together, aud stood on the Tan Yard branch, near the present Catholie church. The second store and third building 'erected around the square was situated on the comer west of the northwest corner of the square. It was ocpied by Jones & Moffitt, general merchants. The xt business house was built by James W. Jones and

Robert Stockwell, and stood on the comer south of the southwest part of the square. These buildings were all constracted in 1814. Robert Stockwell was for many years the leading merchant of the place. He was a native of Pennsylvania. In the winter of 1815 he purchased a stock of general goods at Pittsburg, loaded 'them on fat boats and floated down the Ohio River to where Evansville now stands, Here he loaded his cargo on wagons, came to Princeton, and having formed. a partnership with Mr. Jones, opened a mercantile establishment in March of that year. After a few years Jones retired from the firm, and Mr. Stockwell con tinued in the business by himself until 1846, when Samuel Archer, now of Evansville, became his partner. A few years later he removed to Lafayette, Indiana, where he remained until his death, at the age of ninety years, Mr. Stockwell was an active and enterprising nan, and during his long and successful business career in Princeton, he accumulated a large estate.

post office was early established and John J. Neely, a prominent man in the early history of the county, 'was the first post-mnster. He was succeeded by Judge Isaac Montgomery. In those days the mails were small and it cost twenty-five cents to get a letter from the office. The fourth business house was put up by John Arbuthnot, in April, 1815. It was located on the corner of Hart and Emerson streets, one block north of the public square. Mr. Arbuthnot was a saddler and established the harness and saddlery business, which he pursued for a number of years. He was appointed postmaster in 1829, and eld that position with but little interruption for twenty years. He died in 1885, at the age of cighty-two yeurs. "The first court house, built of brick, was completed in the spring of 1815. The next business building was constructed of brick and stood on the comer north of the northeast comer of the square. It was built by George W. Chapman, in 1815 and 16 'and with the exception of the court house it was the first brick structure in the town. He was a gun and silversmith, and carried on his trade here for about ten years, when he moved to Missouri. This building un- Uormined and caved in several years ago. Mr. Zimmer- 'man, an Eastern man, erected a one-story brick house containing three rooms, nearly opposite the present Lagow House, in one room of which he kept a general In another room Chauney Pierce, a Yankee, manufactured combs, buttons, ete., aud the third room was occupied by a saloon. Samuel Shannon built a frame store-room and dwelling near the center of the east side of the square. This building was still standing until the summer of 1884, when it was torn down. Mr. Shannon engaged in general merchandising, pork packing, ote. was also an extensive shipper, loading groat enrgoes of pork amd grain on flat-boats in the Patoka River, he floating them down to the New Orleans markets, where he realized a good profit on his investments. In 1819 he-erected and carried on a tannery, where the Air Line depot now stands. About 1820 he was operating an extensive and profitable business, and was the lending man in the place. In 1833 he sold his interest to Alfred A. Poland, and moved to Pittsburg, Penn. He subsequently made his home in Princeton, and died here some yours ago.

'The first licensed "taverns," were kept by James Russell, in the Chapman building south of the square, and Basil Brown, whose house stood on the corner whero Dr. Kidd now resides. They both received their "license to keep tavern for one year," June 20, 1815, paying u fee of $10 euch. "Brown's Hotel" was a large L log house, two stories high, with a large ball and dining-room attached. In its time it was a celerated resort, and the entertainment given at this favorite hostelry was highly complimented by the traveling public, Mr. Brown's wife was Mary Warrick, sister of Capt. Jacob Warrick. Brown kept hotel here for several years, and moved to Indianapolis, where he died in January, 1849. 'The old hotel burned about 1830.

'The next mercantile establishment of any importance was that of George Brownlee & Son, who began businoss in 1815 or "16. They also controlled a large trade. After the death of George Brownlee, the business was continued by his son John Brownlee, until he died, April 17, 1855. His stand was in the center of the of the public square, in a low brick building, t. John Brownlee w merchant and ne erected for his 1817 or 1818.

in peltries, furs, pork, grain and anything that was merchantable, handling but little money in te transaction of their business. Their goods were generally purchased in Pittsburg or Philadelphia. "Phe trip was frequently made on horseback, carrying their money in their saddlebags. Robert Milburu, Mr. Smith and Augustus D. Sturgus each had a hatter's shop in the tow 1816, and pursued the business for several years. The first blacksmith shop was conducted by Perkin Lyons, and stood on Main street opposite the Donald House, Andrew Culberson had asnddlers shop and Richard a pottery in 1816. Elisha Harrison, William A. Hardy, Tarleton & Pierce and | George Huniphreys, were licensed to keep "tavern," making seven of those establishments in Princeton, in 1816.