Gibson County, Indiana - Biographical sketches, 1884 (part 2 of 3)

The Stewart Family

Are among the early settlers of Gibson County. They are of Scotch origin. The ancestors emigrated from Scotland to America and settled in Virginia prior to the Revolutionary War, in which memorable contest some of them took an active port. Thomas Stewart, the great grandfather, was born near Lynchburg, Va., April 9, 1708. He married Terzah Morrison, Jan. 30, 1794. She was born in the same locality in Vir. ginin, Aug. 80, 1759. By that union there were three children, viz.: - Willinm, and Sammel Ayres Stewart. William came West with his brother to Gibson County in 1818, and settled im Patoka, and from there went North to the lead mines nt Galena, Il, and. there died. Nancy married a man by the nume of Lacky, removed to Kentucky, where she remained until her death, Samuel Ayres Stewart, the father and grandfather of the present family, was born in Virginia Dec. 10, 1797, and there grew to manhood. On arriving hein company with his brother came West | to seek their fortunes, landing here in 1818, They were attracted to Gibson County through their acquaintance with parties who were then former neighbors, and who had preceded them here. Here Mr. Stewart engaged until his death. He died prematurely: young from an attack of jme May 24, 1849, fifty. | second your. ¢ in Gibson County he was unusually active in matters porta to the welfare of the locality us well as im securing Me competency aud happi Me was of n naturally religions tu carly age attached himself to the Methodist copal Church. His zeal und earnestness in. the canse: of religion pointed him ont us worthy to preach and | expound the gospel according to the tenet adopted church, and he was accordi preach in 1830. On the Ath of October, 1884, he was ordained a dencon by Bishop Roberts at Mt. Carmel, and on the 10th of October, 1847, he was regularly ordained an elder in Evansville by Bishop Wangh. He 'was un earnest, forcible speaker, and his sermons were clear, sound and diseriminate, both in the presentment | and sustaining of the doctrine and precepts of Chris-

political matters Le was quiet, though firm in his convictions of what he decmed to be right. He was unutterably opposed to the institution of slavery and lefthis native state in order to escape ite baneful influences. He held during his life a number of ofices of honor and trust, among which was that of associate judge, to which position he was elected in 1897. In

1845 he was appointed by Governor James Whitcomb probate judge, to fill the unexpired term of Judge Freuch, and ia August of the same year, was elected to the same position for the fall term. He was also col lector for the county taxes of the year 188%, All uf these positions he filled with credit to hinselfand honor to those who reposed full confidence in him. On the 20th of January, 1824, he was united in marriage to Miss Lucinda, daughter of Robert Howe, She was born in Kentucky, March 3, 1806, and died April 5, 1874. Of this union there were eleven children, five of whom are yet living. Their names are Thomas, Tirzah, wife of B. C. Ashcraft, Joha Wo, Mary fe of B. Taylor, and' Nathaniel F. Stewart, was member Company A Eightieth Regiment Imfuntry three years, from Aug. 10, 1802, to clove of wur. 'Thomas, the eldest of the family, was bon: in Gibson uly 29, 1828, Here he was reared and ted education in the subscription schools entry ago.

On the 29th of September, 1858, he was united in marriage to Miss Susan L., danglter of James and Elizabeth (Payen) Hudelston. She was bora in Gibson , Nov. 30, 1890, Her parents emigrated from mercial College, from which he hin d on Ang. M, 1974. His father engaged eral merchandise, 'conimercial chosi father, wh wed 1519, when the inn of Stewart K Davis wns formed, which till He ber of the Methodist Episcopal, Church and order. At the death of J.T. Lamb 196, he appointed postas toka, which position he sil ctis St December, 1877, he was united in ma

Samuel A. Stewart, his grandfather, was a member of Liberty Lodge, No. 95, Liberty, Va. and demited from same in 1820 to identify himself with the lodge at. Princeton, Ind.

William D. Daniels

'The ancestry of the Dan traction. They came to Am War of Independence. Members of the family took part in that conflict. They settled on the senbourd, 'where Joseph Daniel, the grandfather of the prevent family, was born. He was by profession a seafaring man. During the War of 1812 held the position of sailing master on the sloop of war Hornet, and participated in the capture of the English brig Peacock. Cooper in his Naval History says "that a great share of that skill and manner in which the Hornet was handled in the engagement by her wailing master." Joseph Daniels was subsequently lost nt sen. He married Sally White, and she with her family were residents of New York state, where she had removed prior to Mr Daniel's ill-fated voyage. There were six sons and one daughtor, the offspring of Joseph and Sally Daniels. Of the sons was Stephen, the father of William D. He was born in Ontario County, in 1707. He emigeated to Ohio in 1822, und in denth, in 1858. He was a bridge builder and railroad contractor, and in that calling, was well known throughout the state of Ohio. He married Sophia Warren, n native of Boston, Muss. She was the daughter of William Warren, direct descendant of Gen, Warron, the hero of the battle of Bunker Hill, Whose tragie death is well known to all students of history. William Warren, the maternal married Hannah Dickerson. Her father wns one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, nnd subsequently a member of the Continental

Congress. As will be seen by the foregoing, the Daniels family are from the old New England stock, In their 'veins courses the blood of the sturdy patriotic men who 'made independence possible and secured the inestimable boon of liberty and free government to the people of this country. Mrs. Daniels still survives her I band, although past four score years of age. She i resident of Brazil, Ind, William Danforth Daniele the fourth in the family of seven children. He was bora in the old town of Marietta, Obio, Sept. 11, 1884. In his youth he enjoyed excellent educational advantages in the schools of Marietta, which were even in that early day superior to many others in the state. In 1887, while yet a boy, he came West to White River 'Township, in Gibson County, and settled in the village of Patoka, and there he has remained to the present. Ho engaged in the lumber business, and extended it into the states of Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Ilinois and Indiana. It is needless to any that ho has by the exercise of energy and enterprise made the business profitable.

He was twice married. His first wife was Miss Sarah Fullerton, a native of this county. She died in 1872. By that marriage there were five children. In 1878 he married his present wife, who was Miss Kate Blanche, daughter of James and Elizabeth (Payen) One child, a daughter, is the offspring of the latter marriage. Politically he isa Republican. James W, Daniels, his brother, was a brave and gallant soldier during the Inte war. He was a member of the Fourth Ohio Cavalry. He died at Little Rock, Ark., Jan. 80, 1884.

Was born in Monroe County, Ind., Feb. 18, 1851. He received a good education in the common and graded schools of the state. At the age of twenty he commenced the study of medicine in the office and under the direction of Dr. J. W. Runcie, and after reading the standard text books he entered the Evansville Medical College at Evansville, Ind., and took the regalar course 'and graduated from that institation, Feb. 27, 1876, with the degree of M.D. He commenced the practice of hi profession the same year, and six months later came to the village of Patoka, where he has continued it with success up to the present. He is a member of the Gibson County Medical Society, and was its vice-president in 1869. By close attention to the practice and always faithfully trying to excel in his chosen profession, he has built up a large and lucrative business, He was one year in partnership with Dr. Howard, a well-known physician of Gibson County. In December, 1878, he 'opened a drug store in Patoka in connection with hie brother, W. S. Sears, which business is still continued by the firm. They have a large and well-selected stock of pure drugs, chemicals and everything kept in a firstclass drug store. In 1878 he was united in marriage to Mise Teresa, daughter of James G. and Nancy A. Higginboton, an estimable young lady and matron of Gibson County. In politics Dr. Sears is Republican.

MISTORY OF GIBSON COUNTY, INDIANA. 191 WASHINGTON: TOWNSHIP. 8 named in honor of George Washing- | and James Robb were appointed special commissioners.

ton, the first president of the United ted iu the northeastern part of the county. The surface is divided into bottom and uplands, and in some places it is much broken: originally densely timbered. The streams 'and water courses are still well wooded with oak, hickory, ash, walnut, «year more, poplar, black w

The weil is quite productivo, and in some parts, especially in the fertile bottoms, yields bountifully to the hand of labor. The township is well supplied with stre imi which furnish an abundance of water for stock purposes. The surface water is drained by White and Patoka Rivers, Yellow, En Pond, Sand Branch aud other tributaries. The Patoka River flows in a northern and westerly direction und drains th southern part of the township, and White River flows in a southwesterly direction and drains the extreme northern portions of the township. Washington ix shape, and is bounded on the north by Pike

Joseph Decker, Jacob Decker and Luke Decker, brothers, enne to the territory now embraced in Washington Township about or before 1400, and established. a ferry neross the White River at a point where Buena Vista now stands, known as Deckers ferry. This ferry and the' Severns' ferry across the Patoka were 'he first in the county, and were in operation long before this was « county, under the authority of Knox County.

At the May term of court, 1813, the first in the county, on petition of Joseph Decker, the commissioners ordered a road to be opened fifteen feet wide from Decker's ferry on the White River to Severns' ferry on the Patoka River, and Abraham Decker, Robert Falls

'Nathaniel West was, perhaps, the next settler in this town, about 1800. His wife's maiden name was Betsey Lewis, und their children were: - Sustn, Nancy, Betsey, Polly, Ruth and Thomas. Mr. West ili mation 121 and improved a farm. Thom L. West was a soldier and was wounded at the Inttle of 'Tippecatioe. He was shot through the shoulder and month, cutting his tongue in a way us to cripple his articulation for life, Miss Nancy West, the second dangpler of Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel West, married Mr. James Check. 'Thin is sid to ly the first wurringe enterprising citizen, having the confidence of the peo: ple and those in authority, ax noted by the fact of h holding different offices of trust in the towns

Robert Falls was an carly settler. He camo in 1803 to this township and built the first mill operated horse-power, in 1809 or 1810. It was located o tary donation No. 107. Mr. am day were in the p eir cabin house for church purposes and the feasting of preachers. On a certain occasion several Baptist ministers went to feast and hold services nt Mr. Fully'. During service and before the meal somo young chap at the prompting of James Robb, son of Maj. Davi Robb, slipped the bread and baked has from the Du ovens about the fire and handed them out xt the top of. the chimney to some other boys, when they all retired to out-of-the-way place and devoured them to the great disappointment of the men of God and deep chargin of Mrs. Falls. The above prank resulted iy some litigation, but we are not informed how the boys came out. Mr. Fall lived « useful and quiet life, taking but little part in public affairs.

W. G. Collins and his wife, Naney Robb, eldest daughter of James Robb, are living quietly in their advanced old age on military donotion No. 112, where they have lived for many years, she being blind and he

1801. Jesse und John Dougherty, brothers, came to the township in 1804. John Hyneman came to this township to settle in 1902. He was in the com the fall of 1800, and helped Ma}. David Robb build his cabin. Mrs. Betsey Milburn (nee Kirk) came to this township in 1804 with her husband, who died, and she afterward married John Hyneman, This union was blessed with an iseue in 1408, Robert Hyneman, born on Section 80, the first born of the township, who still living, at the advanced age of seventy-six years, in Hazleton, this county. Robert Hyneman is blind, bat is able to go about the town without a guide, und i quito neti

Thomas Garaner, » native of South Caroling, v 'an early settler of thie township. He located on donation 106 and improved it. He tanght school some time and perhaps was the first teucher in the township. William Gardner, the only living son of Thomas Gard- born ir South Carolina, came to this township with his father and is now eighty yeurs old. His wife in two yours older than he, and weighs between 200 and 300 md looks quite fresh nnd vigorous, and ean go about with the assistance of n Jamen Crow set- in this township at an curly day on military donation FIS, and was the first sheriff of Gibson County. Many of his descendants still reside in the county and ivan, nati settlers. He was in the battle of Tippecanoe. Jobn Stookey and John I. Neely were also among the pioofficial positions nnd is recollected by many of the pi neers, who spenk of him as having been an oficer of integrity and a genial, whole-souled man. He was noted for his hospitality and kindness of heart.

'The first sermon. preached in this township were by Joseph Milburn, a Baptist, and resident of White River at the residences of James Robb, Abraham. and Robert Falls. The first church erected in Washington Township was built on the northeast cormer of military donation seventy-seven, belonging to Hezekia Bennett. The building was a log cabin with- 'out any floor, and the sleepers made to serve as seats for the congregation. The name of the minister who presided at this temple was Rev. Hanks. The faith of the people who worshipped here was of the Bap-

A little incident connected with this congregation will perhaps not be out of place here. Hezekia and Armstead Bennett, members of the church, had been indulging overmuch in " high lonesomes " and were brought to task for their over indulgence. Armstend was penitent and promised to reform, and was forgiven and retained in the fold, but Hezckia, being " muleish," stiffened his neck and would neither apologize nor make any promises, which created considerable excitement and confusion, and noise sufficient to awaken Sister Mollie Cheek, the sleeping member, as she was called, when she, learning the situation, exclaimed, " bim ont! 'Tura him out! He alwill keep getting drunk." This turned the tide against Hezekia and he was dropped from the " ark of safety.

'The first resident physician of this township was Dr. Joseph Davidson, Drs. L. Shuler and MeNamee, from Vincennes, practiced some in this township. Richard Garner was the first man who carried on blacksmithing here. The first justices were ns follows: William Phillips, Jonathan oficial capacity of William Phillips, the first justice: Jack Chambers, a local preacher, rendered serview to the people of the township as spiritual adviser, for which he was to be paid in skins and other peltey, etch subscriber agreeing to pay so many skins. His parishioners, as he thought, were slow to pay him, and he brought suit before Esquire Phillips ou his subscription list against all and had vervice on euch mod every delinquent to appear and answer to the demands of the plaintiff, Jack Chambers. Pursuant to notice, court had convened, the parties, defendants were present, the plai faction by means of judgment on his subscription paper, when one Mulholland, who was acting as agent 'or attorney for the defendants, walked into court loaded down with the stipulated furs or skins, and, to the surprise of the holy man, made tender of them in full satisfaction of the plaintiffs claim. The case ended in a general guffaw and plensantness prevailed, all being satisfied with the practical joke.

'The first death we have any account of in this township was a man by the name of McCoy. He died on a keel-boat and was buried on Military Donation No. 5, where cemetery is located, southeast of where Buena Vista now stands. The priority of the first graveyard in this township lics between this one and one located on the old Robert Falls laud, Military Dona. tion 107. The first postofüce in this township was established: in 1869, at Buena Vista and was called "West Buena Vista." Jobn Cunningham was postmaster. Other offices were located in the township, route between Hazleton in White River Township and Petersburg in Pike County, but all are now abandoned. not a postoffice remaining in the townshi

Tn 1816, or thereabouts, John Claypole owned and kept a store of a general character at a point on White River where Buena Vista now is, at Decker's Ferry:

'at an early day, settled on Military Donation No. 93, and in 1826 brought " Packlett," an English blooded horse, into the township. He was said to be a descendant from the English stallion rode by Lord Packingham at the battle of New Orleans. In 1840 Samuel Cunningham introduced on his fann, Donation 66, the first Durham long hom ever brought to the township. "This township fumished one man, Loga way, in the Mexican War. Until 1824, the territory of what is now Washington Township belonged to and formed a part of White River Township. At the August term, 1824, of the board of county commissioners, they Inid off the boundaries of Washington Township and organized the same by ordering au election to be held at the house of Patrick Woods, the second Monday of September, 1824, and appointing John De- Priest inspector thereof. John DePriest was re- 'appointed inspector in 1825, At this time the townthan now, and Jacob Skel-

River Tow making the line between the two townships follow the road leading from Severns' Bridge m the Patoka River to Rob's Ferry on the White

River, There was also nt this term am election ordered on the 224 day of May at the h Ennis, f the election of two justices of the peace. Johu Ennis

The manufacturing in this township is not extensive. Lucian Dunning established a wagon factory in INTO 'on military donation No, 88, at his residence, for the manufacture of the "Imitation Studebaker" wagon, where he now manufactures plows, wagons, carriages and all kinds of wheeled vehicles, and does all kinds of repairing in wood and iron. stem power is ei horse. Me has one run of balirs for grinding rye and 'com attached to his machinery. There is some stone this township. There is one quarry near the Patoka River, where stone have been taken ont and flat bonted down the river from Kirksville, now known us Wheeling. This place at one time was quite a business center, having a large fouring mill, stores, blacksmith shop, postoffice, ete. 16 is situated in Section 19, on the north- 'east branch of the Patoka River, This town is too far from the E. £ T. H. B. R. to be benefited by it, and still so close as to be injured by it, Ita flouring was burned down, and from its loss and milrond fluences, the town has gone to decay, nothing rem ing but a few time-worn and shattered buildings. There st present a small store, tobacco and whisky being the main staples or articles of commerce. There nre considerable number of logs rafted from this point. Bursa Vista is in the north part of this township id county, situated on the east bank of White River, on military donation No. 2. [t was laid ont in 1848, id prospered for six years, having four business houses t carried a good stock, two packing houses, saw mill. hotel, one blacksinith shop, wagon shop, two doctors, one saloon; one church and school house. When the E. AT. H. R. R. was built, Hazleton, a station that road, drew the busines from it, and left it to dwindle on the sand h River. 'There is a small business, one store,

Hon. John

Among the very old settlers of what is now known as Gibson County was the Hargrove family. William Hargrove, the old pioneer, was of Datch descent, born in South Carolina. From there the family went to Kentucky, and in November, 1808, came to the Territory of Indiana, and settled on the tract of land now 'owned and occupied by Robert Mitchell. During the Indian wars in 1811, he raised u volunteer company of soldiers, aud led them as captain in the battle of Tippecanoe, He married Sallie Jasper. Of that union was Jolin Hargrove, the subject of this sketch. He was born in Pulaski County, Ky., Nov. 29, 1798. He was in his tenth year when his fanily came to the territory. At that time there were but two settlements between the Patoka and Ohio Rivers, Here in thig county Jobn Margrovo grew to manhood, and passed the greater portion of his life. In 1819 he settled on 160 acres of land n Lost Creek, in Warrick County, and remained there the fall of 1821, when he removal back to Gibson County, and in the spring of 1822 he moved back to hi faru on Lost Creek, and remained there until 1880, then came back to Gibson County, and here remained the rest of his life, and died in October, 1874. Ho was A shrewd business man, and possessed unusual foresight, and predicted oy in the direction of lands, which in the end made him of the wealthy men of the county. He took an active and conspicuous part in the public affairs of the county, and was for many years the leading represen-

* of the Democratic party, in whose principles 'most eurneatly believed und advocated. During his and he filled many offces of honor and trust, and in all merited the confidence and esteem of his constituency, who recognized in him a faithful and honest servant of the people. In the county he was for five years one of the associate justices, and also assessor of the county in 1899.

In August, 1891, be was elected to represent Gibson County in the state legislature, and was re-elected in 1882, 798 and '84. He served altogether eight sessions in the legislature, In 1896 he was elected Sergeant at Arias of the House. In 1887 he was commissioned by Gov. Noble as probate judge, to fill a vacancy. At the end of that term he was elected, and altogether served three full terms as probate judge. In 1888 he was elected to represent the counties of Gibson, Pike 'and Dubois in the state senate, and subsequently was re-elected and served six full terms in that body. He was recorder and clerk of the county for one term. On the 31st of December, 1818, he was united in marriage to Isiphina Latham, She was born in Virginia in 1798, Her parents moved from Virginia to Kentucky in 1805, and in 1807 came to tho Territory of Indiana. She died March M, 1877. By the union of John and Isiphina Hargrove there were five sons and seven daughters, Of these one son and four daughters are yet living. Samuel, the only surviving son, is a farmer and resident of Pike County. He married Miss Mary, daughter of John. and Samb Ewing, in 1966, and has two children, named and John Ewing Hargrove. During the late war Mr. Hargrove was a member of company " Eightieth Indiana Infantry. He enlisted for three years, and served until the close of the war. Politically, he is a Democrat, and represented his party in the state legislature. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and of the G. A. B.

thrift and civilization that soon transformed a waste into a habitable abode of man. The st neers were few, but composed of t tera which was able to enduro every hardship, to overcome the many obstacles that fell across their com paratively lonely path. It was no enviable task to the timber of the sturdy forest, or to undergo the labor, inconvemencies, and even dangers of the lot of the pio- and yet these hardy few never flinched nor became discouraged in the part they ld to perform. Indeed, to talk with the few remnants of them to-day of ye olden time, the listener will natarally conclude that those were the happiest days of their lives, Many a time bas the writer in his interviews with then, been urgently pressed to remain longer, as the recollections of the past had boen so vividly brought to their mind again by talking of the times of Anld Lang Syne, that it was with seeming reluctance that the interview had to close. Blessings on the worthy gray hairs: iù the nnknown beyond they will certainly reap a fitting reward for the services they have rendered their race. This is the best and most finely improved of all the townships in the county; and here we find the model farms, the most beantifal farm resi dences, furnished with many of the conveniencies of modern life.

Expan ive fertile fields of wheat and corn gladden the eye of the husbandman in the summer. The pastures are dotted with blooded stock, and the large and commodious barns are tenunted by fine horses and comfortable and handsome garriages. Beneath surround ing sheds stand the latest and best improved machinery of all kinds necessary for the successful cultivation of the soil. one drives along the well-kept roads, feelings of pleasure well up in bis breast, as fell after feid of golden grain or green cora meets the eye upon all sides, while the ear is tot unfrequently greeted with strains of sweet music issuing from the farm houses by the wayne, indicating that tho wives and danghlers of the proprietors have time for the cultivation of the taste as well as for labor.

'This township was named in honor of the Montgon ery family, who were pioneers and among the most culvated and respected poople of the co largest towns i acres. The land and improvements, including Owensville, is valued at $1,297,600. It lien in the southwestern part of the county bounded on the north by the Wabash River and White River Township, east by Patoka, sonth by Jolmson and Posey Counties, and west by Posey County and Wabash Township. Its surface is divided betwoen upland and bottom, about two-thirds of the former to ial Joam, produci and from twenty to thirty-five bushels of wheat, proportioned to the care and energy of the farmer. The bottoms grow crops of corn ranging from 3010 89 bushels per acre, and the sand ridge produces nbundantly, choice watermelons, which are shipped to the markets of Chicago, Detroit, and even ns far east as New York, Thore ix yet standing considerable amount of valuable timber, such as walnut, poplar, ouk, ash, ete., some of which are of enormous size. There aro four or five large ponds or lakes sitanted in tho northwestern part of the Township near the Wabash River, into which they have an. et They contain an abundant supply of good fish. "The principal streams arc the Wabash River at th Indian Creek and its aflnents in the east, Black River, Martin's Branch and Obion Creek in the south and Maumee Crock and its tributarios in the western and central portion of the township. These streams drain the landa and farnish a good supply of water for stock purposes.

Earl Settlements

We cannot say with certainty to whom the honor of being the firat setler in this township properly belongs, 'but among the very first arrivals was Thomas Montgom. the pioneer of that numerous family now in Gibson County. Thomas Montgomery was the youngest of seven sona bora to Hugh Montgomery, of whom served in the Revolutionary War. In 1793 he emigrated to Kentucky, settling near Mt. Sterling, in the county that was afterward called in honor of his He was married in Virginia to Martha Crocket, sister of Col. Joseph Crocket, of Revolutionary fme and cousin of the famous David Crocket. In 1605, he ldt Kentucky and emigrated to the Indiana Territory, ct Ming inthe wilderness on the banke of Black River, in the southeast quarter of Section 19, Township 3 South, Range 12 Wed, where he built rude log cabin and mado his permatenthome. Ho was a man of great en dusace, vas six fet

"Thomas, Isaac, Walter, and three duughiers, Polly, Jennie and Patsey. Hugh died in Kentucky, while a boy. Joseph, Thomas, Isaac, Polly who married Smith Mounts, Jennie the vite of Capt. Jacob Warrick, and Patsey whose husband was Robert McGary, were all married in Kentucky and came with their father to this country, Waller married Nancy Roberts after coming to the county settled on the ok place wi his fatl

A year or two later Samuel Montgomery, a brother of "Thomas Montgomery, the pioneer, emigrated to Ind with his family, consisting of his wife and nine children, and settled just south of his brother in the same seetion, His wife's nae was Polly McFarland, whom he married in Kentucky. The nares of their ehikiren were Polly Swope, James, Robert, Benjatain, John, Samuel, Rachel Mounts, Dorcas Stone and Katie Alcorn, These are the names of the original Montgomery families that came to Gibson County. All vf that name now living here nro descendants of either Thomas or Samuel Montgomery. The latter died in 1815, horse mill. Ho lived here and engaged: in milling, faring and trading with He hnd some difienlty with time, while he was out in a maple grove, waking sugar, y cume and burned his cabin and carried off every: of value that suited their faney. Becomin

Missas with his location, he crossed the river aud came north into the Indiana Territory aud mude a settle ment in the southeast quarter of Section 34, Town 3 Bonth, Range' 12 West. The date of his arrival ix about the same that of Thomas Montgomery, in 1805. "The spot which he selected for his home was upon the site of an old Indian village, and his cabin stood near a large perennial spring of pure cold water. About 1810, he built and operated a water-mill on Back River, a few hundred yards east of his enbin. He subsequently constructed a horse mill which was in operation as late as 1840. He planted an apple orchard on his place, which was in bearing as early as 1812 or'14, His family nombered five, three sons and two daughters, that grew up, viz: - Elisha, Mary, who married a Mr. Gates; Sarah, wife of Hulm Jones; Enoch and Isase, and all reared families in this county. William B. Kimball, of Owensville, and Jesse Kimball, of Princeton, are sons of Elisha Kimball, who was born in 1796, at Red Banks, Ky. William Kimball, residing on the old place, is a son of Isaac Kimball, Gradfather Jesse Kimball died Nov. 18, 1857.

In 1806 Thomas Sharp, Luke and William Wiley, settled a short distance south of Owensville. The Wileys afterward moved down into Posey County, and one of them was lost in a storm and froze to death, Thomas Sharp remained bere until his death, which occurred about sixty years ago. John Sharp, nged eighty years, residing in Ilinois, is the only ono of his family now living. Mathias and Smith Mounts came lo this territory about the same time. Smith Mounts, located in Section 24, Tp. 3. R. 12, where he resided until his death, He was with Gen. Wayne, in the Indian wars, and at Tippecanoe. He was a fine marksman, and spent much of his time in lmnting, during the frst years of his settlement here, Of his family of eleven 'children, Smith and Thomas A., both residents of thin township, are the only ones living. Garrard Mounts 'was quite a prominent man in the county; was an officer of militia, und at ove time county commi He died in 1882. None of Mathias' Mounts' children are living n the county.

No name is more familiar to the older citizens of the county than Captain Jacob Warrick. He was a son-inlaw of Thomas Montgomery, and came with his family im 1807, locating on the northwest quarter of Section

'Town 8 - 12. He was a man of considerable wealth, 'aud brought with him from Kentucky quite a number of fine cattle and horses, and also slaves. He made a good improvement, and was a conspicuous and notable character among the pioneers. He had acquired the reputation of a bold and sagacious Indian fighter, ist Kentucky, and when the red-skins became troublesome 1810-11, the citizens chose him as their leader in making preparations for their defense. At the call for da i he organized a company of rangers, with Gen. Harrison, participated in the battle 'of Tippecanoe, where be was killed, while courageously years ago. Some of his descendants are living in the state. He possessed a good education, and was a vah Me man in those early times. He followed tenci and surveying for many years. Jolm Benson, a Pennsylvan lucky in 1788, where be married and came to County in 1807, settling in the northwest quarter ot Section 85, Township 2, Range 12. He made an improvement, m moved to Minois. In 1916 Wikis single man, came here from Kentucky, his nati hased his brother John Benson's place. He wright and followed his trade together with y of eight children, six are now li Martha, Ellen, Louisa, Surah, Lemira, and in this county in 1829, and resided on the oll homestead. Sylvester ix a member of the present board of county commissioners, and is one of the largest lud owners in the county. Jesse and M sie, from Kentucky, brothers in-law to John Benson, setfled in the same neighborliood in 1908, Jolm Benson and Jesse Musie were in the Tippecanoe battle, where the latter was mortally wounded and died on the return trip to Vincennes. Elias, William, John and Jesse Parker, brothers, and James Stewart, a half brother, all natives of Kentucky, also ur Montgomery settlement in 1 but Jesse, when they came, and he n daughter of William Key, an curly settler ahont three miles north of Owensville, and made his farm just at the north edge of that village, where he died in 1963, Mary J, wife of Samuel Davis, in Patoka Township, Sarah, wife of Joseph ond Hirami Barker, who was hom February 25, 1821, on the oll place and still continues to reside there, me ali of the descendants uf the Barker family in the county. Thomas Waters was another sturdy pioncer of 107. He was u Virginian, bat w Can home in Caswell County of that st murriedand had te wife was Martha. riage, he ei removed to Todiana, local to the county wi 'Thomas, who died young, the wile of John Simpson, both deceased, Sarah and Naney. William was married and had two children when he came to this county with his father. Elizabeth, wife of Daniel Drake, came afterward, and Polly with John Gooch, her husband, came in 1915. Willium W. Waters left a large posterity of Rachel, widow of James Frazer, tha, widow of William Harmon, and Will township, are all of the family now living. James R. Waters reared three danglters and two sons viz : - Wil. iam A., in his seventy-second year, residing on Section 3, Township 3, Range 12; Mary, widow of Samuel P. Welborn ; Sarah, widow of James Rosborough; John L., Eliza A., married Josey! ithout issue. Jane R. Waters died about 1845. George and Thomas Sharp, with families of partly grown children, came in 1808, and settled about two George was the fret Th His son William Sharp was captain of militia, dencon in the church and a prominent man in bis time, Robert McGary, grandfather of Hugh D. McGary, of

Section 9, Township 9, Range 11, so the year 1869, He moved here with his fm Kentucky. Me was of Scotch Irish ancestry. eril years he served as justice of the peace.

large family of children, most of them born town ship. Among tham were Hugh, Harrison D., Daniel, William H. and Patsey, who became the wife of a Mr.

Crow, connected with one of the old families of this county. 'The MeGarys were among the more prominent. of the carly settlers, and several of the sons of Robert MeGary held different official positions, in both township ud county during the early days. ohm Roberts located about three miles north of Owensville ata very early dute. Charles Cross, old Revolutionary soldier and lackwoodsmnan, beca ident at a very early date, and afterward went to Vanderbungl County. Fielding, Zachariah and Oliver Lm- were also carly arrivals, William Forbes, the Over: also came early. a native of North Carolina, emigrated to Kentucky from where t» 1809 ho camo to the settled in this towns His son Wiles was fond of ln with rile, He was at the battle of wd afterward captain of militia, Mix brother Alsberry was also at Tippecanoe. Julia wax the jiel Fisher, who lived in the southern part of was killed at the battle of Tippecanoe. 'youngest and the only one of the children ty-five years of and resides ren in Ilinois. son, afterward associate judge, and a prominent and influential man in the county, came here from Kentucky, in 1811, and settled on the read ing from Owensville to Princeton, in the northwest parter of Section 24, Township 2, Range 11. He reared large family, of who.n Henry is the only one living. Reuben F the above, came to the county in. 1813, what is now Johnson Township. Andrew Gudgel, the pioneer of that family in this county, settled in the timber, about two miles east of Owensville, in the early part of the year, 1811. He was three times married, and left a lange posterity. James Knowles, a native of Delaware, emigrated from Georgia to Indiana, in southwest quarter of Section 23, Township 3, Range 12. ight with him his wife and nine children, iphnam, El, Asa, Prettyman, James, Edvard, nd Comfort, the wife of Joshua Wilson. The lust four named sons, were married and families. ned quite a little colony. Nathan and are still living, the latter in Kansas. Nathan was born June 17, 1795, and is still living near father settled, and works on his place every lso curly settlers. se pioneer settlers experienced a great many hardlocating in à wilderness, far distant fron civili surrounded by will beasts, and the fiercer red inan, and it was only the bravest and most stalwart that uunlertook the task. They lived mostly on the wild in hund. Old Red Banks or Henderson, Kentucky, was the nearest point nt which they could get the cora and then with horse mill, waiting sometimes

Southern Ilinois, distance of seventy mil supply of walt, for which they paid $2.50 per bushel, and curried it home on horseback, Thero was always a fear of the savages, nud the pioneer was always prepared for un attack. They were, however, very fortunate in ng disturbed. In 1811, during the Indian fort or stockude was built on Thomas Mont place, south of Owensville, where the families for protection, while nearly all the able bodied men joined Gen.

peaceful pu led and kept in readiness for several years, but they were afterward troubled with the red man. After peace had been made, the country began to fil up very rapidly with settlers from nearly all the southern states, and the axe of the woodman could be heard on every hand, Telling the forest and erecting the rode log:cabin nome. Among the prominent settlers of 1812, was Charles Jones, Sr., who located four miles west of Owensville. He married Eleanor, daughter of Jacob Warrick, after ~ he came to the county. He had eleven children, nine

'of whom are yet living. Joseph Wasson, a native of Tennessee, came here from Kentucky about the same date. He was a minister of the Christian denominathe founder or the Wasson families now in Gibson County. James Fitzgerauld settled the present Sylvester Benson farm in 1812. Two of his daughters, Mrs. Hiram Baker, and Mrs. William Simpson, are living in the township. James H. Higgins, a Kentuckian aud Methodist minister, located here at a very early day. Roland B. Richards, Alfred Richards, Samuel Blythe, Absalom Boren, the Simpsons and William Rutledge were also early settlers. Samuel Kirkpatrick, who is still living in Owensville, at the age of eighty-six years, came in 1821, and the first family of Maucks, in 1821.

'The earliest milling was done by horse-mills. Jesse Kimball built one on his place as early as 1810. James Montgomery had a similar one in 1811. Thomas Jolinson and Jacob Mowery also had mills of the same discription. Several of the farmers bad stills and made corn whiskey in early days. John Hunter, who opened m 1808, was the first 'The earliest resident physicians were Drs. Charles Fuld Willis Smith, The frst school that was taught in the township, was in 1808, by Joseph Dunlap fan eastem man. The school was held in a log cabin at stood by the spring in the southeast corner of Section 2, one-half mile northwest of Owensville. He was regarded as a good teacher. John Wasson taught. in w litle pole cabin in the southeast corner of Section 22, where the Antioch church now stands, in 1809. Robert Frazier, Major James Smith, Mr. Newinnn, William MeCollum and John Simpson, were also among the carly teachers. The first house built for school purposes was made of round logs, in 1828, and stood the northwest quarter of Section 10, Township 12. George Sharp was first to teach in it. It was built hy the weigliborhood. It was a two dollar per scholar subscription school.

'The county was organized in 1819, and it will probably prove interesting to note a few of the carly town- 'officers, as taken from the records. In 1813, John W. Maddox was appointed assessor for the township; Robert Anderson, supervisor of Saline Road from Jolm Hunters to Black River; William Stewart, constable; Robert MeGary and Thomas Short, overseers of the poor. Peter Jones was appointed supervisor of the road between Black River and the line of Warrick County, in 1814; Greeuberry Duncan, constable; Thomas Alcorn and James Montgomery, overseers of the poor; Jesse Embree, superintendent of an election to be held at the house of Walter Montgomery and Greenberry Duncan, constable. In 1815, Thomas Sharp and Reuben Alsop were appointed overseers of the goor. In 1815, Joseph Montgomery, Williaw McCormick and Thomas Alcorn were appointed road

James Johnson, constable, and Jesse Emerson and James Smith, overseers of the poor. Iu ISIN, Thomas Stone, James Montgomery and Thomas Alcorn were appointed commissioners to adjust accounts of overseers of the poor; Walter Montgomery and Reuben Alsop, over seers of the poor, and Joseph Montgomery, superintend: ent of schools, William Sharp was. appointed con stable; Philip Brisco, inspector of elections; Samu Montgomery, constable, and 1. Richards Philip Brico overseers of the poor, im 1819. In 1820 Renben Alsop, constable; Philip Brisco, inspector of election; Samuel Montgomery, assessor: and Joseph Montgomery and Joseph Somers, overseers of the poor.

& Mante Railroad, el county seat, in the heart of oue of the finest. districts in the state. It was lid ont on the northeast quarter of Section 12, Towns Brise, in February the berod fifty-two lots und five ont lots, with streets sixty: six fect in width, amd a public square in the center of the town, Brisco was Kentnekian und named the town in honor of Thomas Owens of that state.

general stock of goods. He continned in business here for about ten years, when he moved to. Missonri, where he was called from his house and shot.

and most important bu early history of Owensville was John C. Warrick, Capt. Jacob Warrick, He began a gener mercantile siness here about 1620, which he carried n very extensively, buying and shipping itamense quantities of pork, grain and produce. His store stood on the corner. southeast of the public square. It was a frame build: ing, one story high, part of which now forms a portio of Thomas Emerson's residence. Mr. Warrick was an jasli River, where his pork and grain was stored during the winter, and when navigation was opened in the spring, they were loaded on great flatboats, which had been constructed for that purpose, and floated down the rivers (ew Orleans. He was the first postmaster, and 'ownod and controlled the village and business for sevferal years. About 1896 or 1898 he built a stema saw and Hon Te had three run of uhr eral frame dwellings, and invited and ei business men to locate in the town. He built the present Jaquees House, intending it for his residence, hn before it was completed. At hi 1817, he was carrying ou probably the hwaviest mereantile business, and had the largest estate, of any man in the county. He had no childre

About 1845 and 1850 other merchants men began coming. and it began to as tious of a town. There was woolen mi at one time, that did quite an exter front of store billings, on the east side of the square, except northeast corner brick, were swept vay by fie, with a lors of about $40,000, They were all frime Mings, except the one above mentioned. Several two-story brick structures now wand im their over 700 inhabitants. There are a stores, and the merchants are an energetic class, wh striving to build up their town, The streetsin some places are well and has There are a

+ ocenpies the second story of a eommedians brick business house, and has a senting cap acity of 850, with opera chairs in front and clevated sseatsin the rear. The stage is 2224 feet, with a full set of scenery.

Tcosonsztos. The town was incorporated under the general state buws relating to the incorporation of cities and towns, October 4, 1881. The first bourdof trustees were James Montgomery, Hiram Westfall and James A. Robinson; clerk, Ll. P. Hobgood; treasurer, J. F.

Socieris. Stewart Lodge, No. 197, L O. O. P., was organized December 2, 1850. It bas a membership of twenty-three, and is in good working and financial condition. Owensville Lodge, No. 864, F. and A. M., was chartered May 27, 1868, and has a memtersbip of forty Montgomery Lodge, No. 364, A. O. U. W., was chartered in 1860, and there is also a Post of the G. A. B.

Owessvine Bora Lows Association was organ: ized Fob. 24, 1884, with capital stock of $50.000. It iw in a good financial condition. L. P. Hopgood, pres- H. L. Strickland, treasurer; John Williams,

Owrxsvnaz Brick asp Factony was established in 1881, by W. H. Redman & Co., the present proprie tors, Tp is operated by stenm power and has a capacity of 5,000 feet of tile and 5,000 brick per day.

Miis. Owensville Elevator Mill was erected in 1880, by Scott & Hudelson, and now owned and operated by L.C. Hudelson. It is a frame building, two and a half stories high. It bus four run of bubrs, with a storage capacity of 400 bushels. Extra Family and New Pro cem are excellent brands of fou

Tho Imperial Star Mill was built by Jobn C. Warrick, over forty years ago, and was the first mill in the township. It has been owned und operated by several different patties. It now has four run of bur avd is the property of John G. Tremor.

located on the Mt, Vernon branch of the E. & T. H. TC R., onthe southwest quarter of Section 10, Township 3, Range 11 West, on the farm of Hugh D. McGary. Tt is situated in the midst of « fine agricultural district. Mr. McGary is the agent of the railroad com pany and Adams Express Company. He opened a general store iere in 1880, and his business has gradually increased. He buys and sells grain and general farm products. Iu 1880 a postoffice was established here with Mrs. Surah C. MeGary as postmaster.

xp manson ix the name of a litte settlement in the southwestern part of the township with a general store kept by T. B. Creek, physician, J. N. Neely, and blacksmith T. A. There is a church, sehool-bouse and about half a dozen residences.

Mounts and Knowles are the names of flag stations 'on the Mt. Vernon branch of the E. & T. H. railroad in this township. The census of 1880 gave the township 8,180 population.

Sylvester Benson

'The Beuson family on the paternal side are of Irish ancestry. James Benson, the grandfather, emigrated from Ireland to America before the Revolutionary War, and was a soldier under Washington in that struggle, He settled in Pennsylvania, and 1787 went to Kentucky and stopped in Bourbon County, at Millers' Station, and there died. He married Mary Taylor, who s bom in Pennsylvania in 1760 at Little York. She died im this county. There was a large family of chi dren; none are now living. Of the sous, was William, who was born at Miller's Station, Bourbon County, K) March 81, 1798. He was a wheelwright by trade. He 'was a soldier in the Indian wars in the Northwest, and was stationed at Detroit. He came to Indiana 1816 and settled in Posey County and worked at li trade for a man by the name of William Daris. Soon after he came up to Gibson County and purchased cighty neres of land on Section 36, Town 2, Range 1: West, which was entered by his brother John 1815, In 1819 ho married, and-then commenced improving hie land, still also working at his trade. He remained on the cighty acres spoken of until 1829, then moved to the south of Owensville on the rond to Cynthiana and there lived until his death, which occurred Sept. 20, 1878. He married Margaret Leach, boro in Virginia, July 18, 1803. She was of Irish extraction,

Was born in Philadelphia, Pa., Aug. 25, 1848. son of Daniel and Rebecca Hulfish. The family is of German descent. In 1864 Daniel Holfsh left Philadel phia and camo West to Marion County, Indiana, and there contracted a genuine of Wabash chills and ever. Six months later he returned to Philadelphia 'and remained there until 1867, when he brought hi family West to Evansville, and in 1858 came up to Owensville, where both of his parents yet reside. Mr. Hulfish is shoemaker by trade, and has followed it the greater part of his Me. Ewing D. had buta limited education in his youth. His attainments in that direction are more the result of extensive reading aud selfculture than school training. He learned the trade of and daughter of William and Jane (Thompson) Leach, The Leach's came from Kentucky to Indiana in 1813. Mer marriage took place April 19, 1819, and she died Aug. 8, 1866, There were eiglit children bora to Mr. and Mrs. Benson. , One of the sons was William C. who was a soldier in the One Hundred and Twen eth Regiment Indiana Volunteers, and was killed at the battle of Kingston, N. C., March 10, 1865. Sylfetch, was born July 10, Ind. He learned the trade Ho remained at home 'until the fall of 1845, when his father gave him eighty seres of land, seven acres of which was

From that small beginning ho bas added to now one of the largest land holders in the co the 10th of July, 1867, ho married Nancy An who was born in Jasper, Dubois County, Ind, of Virginia. Seven Mrs. Benson. Their names in the order of their births, sro William C., James E., Benjamin F., John G., Lucella. died in her third year, Luther, Margaret and Lilly Benson. Politically, Mr. Benson is a Republican, In 1476 he was elected of the board of commissioners of the county, and re-elected in 1879, and 1882, bim. They edited jointly until May 1, 1881. Since that time Mr. E. D. Hulfish has been sole editor and proprietor. On the 30th of August, 1819, he married Miss Dora Sherrill, a nativo of Tennessee, anda daughter of Hiram Sherrill. She died June 9, 1977, leaving three children. But iving, whose name is Stephen Hulfish. Politic- Mr. H. is a zealous and stannch Democrat, though is paper is neutral or independent in tone.

Hugh

Feb. 7, 1840. The family is of Scotch-Irish ancestry. They settled in Kentucky, and some of them were the companions of Daniel Boone in the early history of that stato. Hugh MeGary, the brother of the grandfather of the present sketch, came to the territory of Indiana soon after the early Ihdian wars. He was a colonel of * Kentucky regiment irzthat struggle. Ho was a brave man, fearless of danger, and was renowned for his prowess and daring on the field of battle. He settled first on a farm upon which Evansville now stands. He sold out to Evans, after whom the city was named. Robert, the brother of Hugh and grandfather of Hugh D. was born in Kentucky and came to the territory in 1800. He settled on Section 9, Townshi B, Range 11 West, and there died between the years 1840 und 1846. Ho brought his slaves with him. He married Miss Davis in Kentucky. She died here also.

Ho was also born in Kentucky, and was a solwas Hottie Gudgel, who issue. He subsequently married Nancy Pritchett. She was the widow of Ebenezer Cooper, and was born in North Carolina, She was the daughter of John and Elizabeth (Ashby) Pritchett. Her parents came to I ana in 1810. She died in August, 1878. Three chil dren were born to her, whose names are Hugh D., William H., who was a soldier during the late war, a member of Company A, Fifty-cighth Indiana Regiment, and was killed at the battle of Stone River, Deo. 81, 1862; Joseph K., the youngest of the family, ia farmer and resident of this county. Ho was a private in Company E, 42 Indiana Volunteers, and remained until the close of the war. He married Rebecca C. Weed.

his health failing him, be went on a visit to his uncle st Springfield. While be was in Illinois the war broke out. He very promptly enlisted in Company D, of the Sixteenth Regiment, Ilinois Volunteer Infantry, which was organized at Quincy. The date of his enlistment was May 11, 1861. He remained in the service until the 'expiration of his term of enlistment and was mustered cout June 24, 1864, after the seige and fall of He returned home to Gibson County and engaged in farming and has continued in that business to the present. After the railroad was built he commenced buying aad shipping grain, in which business he also continues. On Sept. 26th, 1867, he married Samb C. Weed, daughter of 2. M. and Keziah Weed. Mrs. McGary was born in Gibson County. Three children have been bora tothom. Their names in tho order of their births are: Zenas C., Charles Clyde, and Maud. Both he and his wifo are members of the General Baptist Church. Po- Jitically, he is a sound Republican and has always voted and acted with that party. He isa member of Stephen Mead Post, No. 187, G. A. B.

Barton

situated in the southeast corner of Gibson County. It comprises the congressional 'Township' South, Range? West, ud also two of the west tier of sections running north and th of Town 3 South, Range 8 West, eight miles long and six wide, and aren of forty-eight square miles or 30,720 acres. bounded on the north by Center and Columbia Townships, east hy Pike and Warrick Com Warrick County, west by Johnson aud Patoka ships. Barton was organized in Angust, 1843, and its bonndaries fixed, but subsequently its boundary lines were changed, as shown nt present. It was formed at the request of a large nnmber of petitioners, residents of the township. The land surface in some places ix quite hilly, in other localities gently undulating, except along the creck bottoms, where it is more level. This hip was originally covered hy a heavy growth of er, bmt meh of it has fallen before the woodman's and in place of the groves of the past we spread out over the landscape well cultivated ince water in carried off Fork, Pigeon Creck and their tribformer is an affluent of the latter, and drains the township thron with its sever the center situated on part of the townshi spreads over several la st important early improvement e canal- and its conme was through the northwestern comer of this township, and for several years it was the highway by which the surplus products of the farmers was transported to market. - The first settler was John Miller, who ea c fall of 1814, and located on Seetion 8, Township, Range9. He bronght his fanily, consisting. of wife nnd several children, and erected a log-cabin and improved the first piece of ground. Game at that early period was very plentiful mul it was that, as much as else, which attracted the first settlers to this regi ler and bis wife were both Kentuckians, and they mude the trip from their old home in Ke tncky to this county partly on foot, and partly on pack horse. Elisha Strickland, and family came in the su mer of 1815, and settled on Section 7 near Miller's place. They were from South Carolina, Another early settler was Jacob Skelton nnd family of eleven children, They were also from South Carolina, and movel to what is now Gibson County and settled on a tract of lund near the present town of Princeton in t 1810, and six years later they removed to and made an improvement on Section 8, Township 3, Range 9, wot far from Miller's cabin, where they cleared a patch of gronnd ud erected a honse--or log-cabin. He was n min of considerable pro the carly times and was for many yours a justice of the peace. He sulwey od a metal life, y whieh he resided. One of his sos Skelton, Sra, agel NE years, ix still living on the some section, and is among the oldest residents of Barton. riod Anna, daughter of Ja ww and still living at mo the fi se township. The first to sett the sontheast part of Barton was John Kilpatrick, who is wife and three children in the year 1421 nnd ¡Section 31, Township 3 Range 4, where he Barrett hip, Range 9. Andrew McGregor with his family came from Ohio in 1819 and settled in Prinecton and removed from there in 1895, and settled on Section 18, Township 3, Range 8. All of McGregor's children, four in number, were married within a year After their removal to this township, and many of the Aescendanty of the original settler still reside here, aud the name given to oue of the clevations in this town- | ship, MeGregor Hill, will long perpetuate the memory of this family. A hunter by the name of Juanes Breed- | love built a small cabin on Section 1 in 1819, but the rattlesnakes were so numerous that he was compelled to vacate it, us during the night they would frequently craw] into his cabin, Hunting and fishing was a great | | pastime of the settlers, The woods seemed to be full of game droves of deer, Hocks of wild turkeys, beers, wolves, wild cuts, and panthers were frequéntly to be met with, and furnished much sport for the pioneers. Besides the deer, bears, and turkeys furnished the principal meat for the family. After this date the setters began to come in quite rapidly. Among the old residents now living here may be mentioned, William B. MeCleury, who resides on Section 16, and is a native of the county boru in 1893. His first wife was Julia $. Martin. She was also a native of this county, and bora the sume year as her husband, His present wife was Melvinn Burton, She was born in the state of Virginin and removed to Gilson County in 1989, J. $. McCleary, born in this township in 1825, married C. Wise, and reared u family und lived here los death in Noveiaber, 1881. His widow still Eli J. Oliver, ive of Rutherford | Connty, N. C., came to this county in 1838, and lives on Section 7, His wife is also a native of the above state. 'The Bell family are also old settlers of the minty. One of the representatives, James T., resides | with Ma family om tin 7 After the organization of this territory into Barton Township the first election was held at the house of. Bluford H. Criswell on Saturday, Sept. 30, 1849. Jonas Mali was appointed inspector of the election; Enoch 'Taylor and Jacob Skeltm were appointed. the Arst overseers of the poor. | Eaux Manias One of the funt marriages that took place in this y that of John Skelton, | The ceremony was performed by Willem Mel judice of the pome. The wedding journey | was performed by the beide and groom going to the residence of the justice on horseback, the bride siting p behind the groom on the same horse: in fact, this | ns the custom vay of in the ently dips Ta the pioneer thes. in this township ib was very lod for the children to get opportunity o | even the simplest rudiments of an English educat first teacher here was William Putnam. During | year 1818 he would congregate a few pupila inthe | of the settlers nad give them instruction, and in the spring of 1619 a small log school house was built on Section 7, Township 8, Range 9. It was con structed of round logs, and without windows. The light was shed through the open spaces between the chinks and down the broad, open, mud and stick chimney at the end. Ahd when the weather was not too pleasant the door would be opened to give the school the benefit of more light. This school house had a ground floor made hard by pounding, and the furniture was of the most primitive kind of puneheon benches. This section of the county is now well supplied with good schools.

Eanty Misisrens. - The earliest preaching donc here was by Stephen Strickland, Jacob Bouty and Jon Kell. Mr. Strickland has the credit of having preach the first sermon in the township at the house of John Miller in 1816. Providence Chureh, a log building, 'was the first house erected here for religious purposes. It was a very humble log cabin and was situated on Section 8, Township 8, Range 9, and built in the sum- "mer of 1822. Tt served the purpose for many years, when a new house was built, and subsequently the present frame edifice was erected. A burial ground 'was also established at an early date by the side of the church. The first child born in the township was John Miller in the year 1815. He was a son of the first settler, It is reluted that the first death of a resident of the township was that of Seth Adkinson in the year 1817.

Muss, - The first water mill for grinding grain was erected on Section 17, Township 3, Range 8, on Smith's Fork of Pigeon Creek, by Jacob Bouty in the summer of 1821, 'The dam was a small one, and at this writing every vestige of the old mill site is obliterated. This was a thing much needed by the settlers and was the menns of attracting several families, who focuted in that part of the township.

Pursicaxs. - Dho first physician to locate here was Dr. George Austin, who came in the fall of 1828. Before that time there was no physician nearer than

In the early days at a log rolling an incident occurred which would now be considered a crime. An Indian came to whereva party of settlers had assembled at a log-rolling, on which occasion it was customary for the host to furnish a plentiful supply of liquors, as well as the more substantial edibles for the table. Some of the crowd had become in a measure intoxicated, particularly a mau named Wheeler, and when the Indian nbove alluded to had imbibed quite freely of the liquor, he became boastful of his former exploits, relating a circumstance of how he went to the house of a white family when they were at dinner and compelled them to ent until they were gorged, after which he offered other indignities. This so enraged Wheeler that he attacked the Indian, striking him over the hend with a land: spike, crushing his skull and killing him instantly,

Corn. The first digging for coal was done on Section 5, Township 8, Range 8, in the year 1828. While there is considerable coal to be found in Barton, there are no mines that are regularly worked. Some little coal is occasionally taken out from a seam which ontcrops at the foot of MeGregor Hill. There are also quarries of excellent building stone in the township. Tt is generally understood that the first quarry opened here was by a Mr. Kerns, though the stone is not now utilized to the extent that its merits demand. At some time it will no doubt furnish a liberal profit to noy one 'who would develop the quarries and ship by rail.

1880. It completely demolished the residence of James C. McGregor, killing Mr. McGregor and severely injuring several of bis children, besides doing much damage to other property in that neighborhood.

The wagon roads of Barton Township are among the best in the county. Since the completion of what is popularly known as the = Straight Line Railroad," it Ins good facilities for the shipment of its surplus products. Large quantities of wheat, oats, corn, lay, potatoes and the several kinds of fruits are annually raised. There aro two post offices iu Barton, Sommer ville and Buckskin, is situated on the line of the Indianapolis & Evansville Railroad, known as the "Straight Line." The village is pleasantly situated an elevated piece of ground, and is located on Section 2, Township 8 South, Rango 9 West, and was laid out in 1858 by John E. Smith. Tt was formerly known as Summitville. The first house was built by Ven Nada & Baldwin and was used by them as a general store. And the first postmaster was George S. Van Nada. He was a native of Warrick Co., Ind., born there in 1819, He married Jane, the daughter of John Killpatrick, who was an 'early settler in Mr. Van Nada and wife were the parents of eight children. The present county recorder, Solomon Van Nada, is their won. Mr. Van Nada settled in Sommerville in the spring of 1854.

In 1853 Jackson Tyner established a blacksmith shop bere, which was the first iu the village. There also a Presbyterian Church and a cemetes side of the town.

$ bounded on the north by Washing. ton Township, by Pike County and Columbia Township, south by Barton and Patoka, and west by Patoka Township. It comprises fractional portions of the cougressional Ranges 9 and 10, and 2 South, tu grentext length from north to and n half miles, and from east to les. It comprises un aren of thirty-six and ^ half square miles, or twenty-three thousand three hundred and sixty acres. The northeastern portion of the township is drained by the Patoka River and ite Lost, Kog and Mud Creeks and their afluents. the canal was built it extended through this townid Francisco was then quite an important trad ing point. The track of the Air Line Railroad enters the township on the east on Section 18, and leaves it on Section 29. The lands of Center wem orianally covered. with n heavy growth of timber, which fu xcellent shelter for wild animals. It was rounded by the pioneers of the county as a good bunting ground.

they made the long and tedious trip to this county on pack horses, arriving in the summer of the same year. "They settled near the present town of Francisco, about a mile southwest in the timber, where they cleared a tract, erected the usual bumble log cabin, and by industry and perseverance made them a farm and home. 'The eldest child of Mr. Reavis and wife was Julia Ann, born in 1819. She married John T. Wallace, and is residing in Columbia on Section 23. The other children were James, Mary, Rebecca and Alexander. The latter was a soldier in the Union army during the late war, and died at Andersonville prison. Mr. Reavis died at the homestead in 1856. His widow survived him about two years, They were both members of the Regalar Baptist Church.

+ Isam and Daniel Reavis, brothers of William, with their families, came in 1818, and made a settlement not far from their brother's place. They had both formerly resided for while in Kentucky. About the year 1827 Isam was killed while assisting to raise a log houso; 'one of the logs becoming dislodged fell upon him. The Reavis brothers, for a few years after coming here, oc- casionally had tbe

'They wero expert hunters, and killed large numbers of deer, wolves, bears and other animals. They all had large families and have numerous descendants, many of whom still reside in the county. David Johnson and hie family were among the early pioneers of the county, having wetted in the southern portion of the county 1. November 1801, and in the spring of 1817 be located on atract in the timber about two miles north of Fiancisso. He was a native of Tennessee, but had lived several years in Kentucky before coming here.

Among the former old residents of this township was 'Thomas Birchfield, a native of Kentucky. He removed here with his family and settled in the fall of 1821. He was a brother of Larkin Birchfield, who was also 'an old pioneer of this county. When Thomas Birchfield came here the Indians were very numerous. He, however, got along with them in a quiet and eaceful manner. His first abode was in a small cabin, a occurred about 1816. He raised a large family of squatter's claim, and meats for his table during the frst | children, among whom was Hugh H. Patten. He wax winter consisted of the deer, turkey and other wild for many years a leading physician in Princeton. He game of the forest won by the unerring ride of the died at the advanced age of eighty years in the year head of the household. He subsequently bought out 1876. He was the futher of Dr. James C. Patten.

an improvement of Col. James W. Cockrum, situated | The population of this township, accorling to the where Francisco now is. Thomas Birchfcld's wife's census of 1890, is 1,072, their residence in time when the Wabash & Eric Canal was in operation, xort to the forts for protection a, and at one period it bade fuir to become a thriving plac Ik was platted and laid out in January, 1851, by John Perkins. Mr. P. was living here aud owned the land, Church. She died in 1839, and he survived | The streets had a uniform width of fifty tect, It was her until 1861, though after the death of his first wife | originally located on the east side and np to the banks he married Sarah Beasley. die ame el Beasley, a native of North Carolina, settled | Range 9, and ou the ie family about a mile and n lf south of Fran- , 4 St Louis Railroad It is the third station ciao in 1890. He had a large fa og NA Perkins wre: - Jahn; Landers und Ear: the latter | 'enterprising man. He erected several business is now among the older residents of the township. | Howes and residences, and did all thut ho coul to John S. Mendo, though not an old resident of this | CUcowruge the growth of the place, Ho built two is a son of one of tho carly settlers of the | Houring mills. The largest mill had a run of five wot county. Hi futher, Stephen Mode, was native of | fw and lange sawmill which for several vea Duchess County, N. Ya and when single man came | did quite an extensive business while the canal was i to Gibson County in 1815. Here he married Mary | => on. Mr. Perkins was quite extensively engages Pritchett. She was the danghter of John Pritchett, merchandising and dealing im real estate, The who had been a Revolutionary soldier. The Pritchett | town was lively and flourished from 1854 to 1858. ly moved 'Tennesse to this | There were three lane pork-packing establishments "They settled in what is now Montgomery | Her. carried on by 8. 0. Barrett, Moore & Kuowlon, ip, a short distance from the present sito of | Anl Robert Baldwin; located here were alo three large

Owensville. Stephen Meade was married in 1820, fter | STAM warehouses, and four general stores kept by John | Perkins, Robert Baldwin, Moore £ Kuowles, and Will- He 1980, Johu S. | Mondo care to 17. In 100 ho | Othar tethers aho dis wore Jahn R, Hartin was eleetoll one McCracken. The earliest schools were ried Minerva Yeager, the las Yenger, | Kept in a little log building a short distance from the

1 house was erected in town, another was built about nine years later, and tho pres: ent two-story frame b ISTH, at cost of upward of $2,000. The school ix graded m four teachers are employed.

an early resident of Montgomery Township. 'Thomas H. MeKedy a native of this connty, born in | 1820. He is a farmer, and resides on Section has been married three times. His first wife was Maria "Ted. She died July 20, 195 1 wife, Lneretin Douglas, who died July 23, 1876. The nude 'The first church edifico wax built here in 1855 by of his present wife was Priscilla Leach. Dr. James C. | the Methodist denomination; and the denomination of Patten, of Francisco, is a descendant of one of the | General Baptists erected a church in 1880. Dr. J. M. early residents of the county. His grandfather, James | Ireland, who is still here, was the first resident physi Patien, was a captain in the Revolutionary War. After | cian. He located in the town in 1954. Dr. J. the termination of hostilities he moved to Tennessee, | Patten, formerly of Princeton, became n resident here and in 1804 settled on Green River Island, Ky., and a | in 1878. Drs. D. P. Reavis and George Strickling are few years later became a resident of Gibson County. | also practicing here. He settled on a place about three miles south of where | Stones. T. M. Adams 4 Son, Monroe & Fort Bratch now is; lived there until his death, which | PE, Moore & Son, and Frank Zipp.

the early days this locality abounded in game, and even after the advent of the first settlers the Indians mily resort hither on hunting and trappin expeditions in the fall and winter seasons, Hours wer was appointed inmpector of the election a large nunbor having killed along its banks that olii i ix boundes on the north by Patoka River, | Bear Creek derived its nun

[n peaks and hills which ari yond Wits two miles distint, Seuthwanl are Kennedy Snake Kuoh and Pigeons Summit, nine mi to the east Harbison's Hill within left his Tennessee h re which he both. role, sp behind. They traveled thin «d mine was struck. way for a while, and finally, he had an purposes is trade for an old Dearborn wagon; the bal ether portions trip they rode in it. The first ground broken by him the coal, after reaching this county, was with a de of this part of the county and his first crop of corn was tended with one ox. is given in the chapter on Geology. Farmer aud wife reared family of ten children who In the northern part along the Patoka River is a b womanhood. John A. is the eldest broad expanse of lowland, most of which is covered

In politics he was an old line Whig, He died over | the settlement of anew country. He and his wife were thirty-five years ago, at the age of sixty-three years. + both members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

At the timo of his death considerable specie was stored | in an old trunk in one of the bed rooms, and two nights after the funeral had taken place, the house was entered and the trunk broken open and the money stolen, In those days money and valuables were kept in a more careless manner than now. 'The thieves escaped for the time being, and a few months after the occurrence, Dr. Lewis, of Princeton, then ou n business trip to New helped to discover two men who were sus pected of being the parties, and who had hurriedly left Gibson County, He caused their arrest, they wore Drought back, tried, and one of them sent to the peni. tentiary. The widow of Me. Farmer survived bim bout thirty years, Sho was for many years a member of the Baptist Church

John A., tho won of John and Elizabeth Farmer, was bor in this county on the 31st of May, 1998, His feduention was such ax could be obtained nt the common schools of the neighborhood. Ho has for yours I engaged in farming and sock trading, Me wns a | dier in the Inte war. His first wife was Martin J. Reavis, She war the daughter of Logan Reavis, one | of the ently nettles of Gibson County. the fruits | of that union, Mr. Farmer and wife hud born to thom | seven children, three sons anil four daughters; two chil dron aro deceased, After the donth of his test wife Mr. Farmor married Mrs. Mary E. Wallace, ner Aw the bote of that marriage they huve one son. Mr. Farmer bs in wetive Republican, und filled the ofice of constable for about twenty yours in the township in which he resides. | hiv Mr. Farmer, in tho your 1814, and wetlol in this township, whore ho lente up and mudo a His wife's was Amelia, 'They rented a ple, Mr. Dill is spoken of ns having boon u very strong | athletic pencenblo und friendly, but bravo nnd gouerows to fault, He would not take an insult when intentionally given, but would fight, old settlers termed it, "at the drop of n hat," m yonr 1860. His wife's death occurred n few yeuts prior. 'They are both buried at the old Forsythe graveyard- Mr. Dill was an old lino Whig aud Republican, und an opponent of the institution of slavery. During his carly residence in Tennessee he witnessed some slight depredations committed by the Indians, and after arr

Ferris Farmer was u son of John Farmer by his first wife. Ho and his three sisters were born in Middle Tennessee and they came here with their futher in 1814. On the 24th of January, 1899, Ferris Farmer married Lucretia Dill. She was born March 26, 1820. They had born to them a family of nine children, in the order of their ages, vizi - Minerva Jane, married J. W. Skelton; she is now dead. Mary A. died in infancy. Embree C. lives at the old homestead. Philomen J. deceased, Jolm Lu, decensed. Malisan A., the wife of Joseph M. Lahce. They reside in Kansas. Maletes A., wife of Harrison Fields, residents of Center Town- 'hip, and Joseph F., who lives short distance from the old home place. Mr. Farmor and wife were members of the M. E, Church; in politica he was à Whig and Republican His death took plazo on the 26th of February, 1801. His widow survived him until Aug. 6, 1867. ner, during life, was wn nective and energetic

Her father's relativ the Crow family, are among the pioneers of the county Mr, Farmer nnd wife have lind a family of six childre four of whom are dend, 'Those living are Eunice A. and Embree C, Farmer, Jr. In politics he is identifed with thie Republican party, and is one of the farmers and stock-raisera of Columbia Township. About 1818 came William Hopkins and famil They lived here several yours, then settled in the neighborhood of Princeton, Other early settlers were Adam

In 1830 the venerable William Hargrove, wife and family settled in Columbia a mile east of Onkland, where he lived until his death, which took place in 1816 or '47. His wife died the same Mr. Hargrove and wifo roared n family of fourteen children and several of his deseendants became prom of the county. M. G. C. Hargrove, om sides near Oakland, A grandson, William L. Har grove, exsheriff of Gibson County, lives in Oakland, Ho is the son of Jacob W. Hargrove. Further mention of this family is made in the Pioneer chapter. The Cockrum family are also identified with the early history of this township. Col. James W. Cockrum became a. citizen of Gibson County in 1818, settled on farm at what is now Francisco, and in 1827 purchased the farm vention of whom is made on another page of this houk, in the d Pioneers, Andrew was born at the 'old homestead near Owensville, in this eomnty, on the 19th day of February, 1825, and his early eduention was stich as could he obtained in the district school of that period, He remained with his parents, assisting 'on the farm, wntil the 84 of September, 1910, when he was married to Elvira, the daughter of John Wallace, By this union they have had one son ters deccm Willi nm. - a lawyer at Princeton, Jaars En t physician at Cy ana, Povey Conny, this stato, und Mas Norn, residing at home. There are very few parent special Tam: who have uteeuded so well us Al, Culo in giving tee children the benoffr of an education und making profesional For a that, Mr, aud Mrs. members of th Cumberland Presby. terion Chel, Unt sleequently they joined the Meth Episcopal Church, wd he was itm mental in building the chureh about n mile went fin ronidenee, He bel ofc of justice of tho penca foe venil yeu ud is among dw trepa of the con, tuagh He hus er Inc ann of poit cal union. On tho breaking of the Inte war le enlist in Company A, Filty-eih Regiment Juliana Wolter und partigipatod in many hund-fenght hut. " er til us Tli wf Siow Wer

Jul Wolle und family bo among tie ely erlernt he eomuty, Tle was of paros ti Vul, and ms with Mie parent to Vini to married Frances Taylor iu die sear 1405, afie which he and M» beide rowed w Ohio County, Kentucky, where he engi in milling em Creek, Mo was al by trade u carpenter nml cabinet maker, In year 1929 ho migrate with Ma family to County, ad settled in Une cd aix place which a now abun (o a hall milon went ings Staion, Tine of the E & T. IE IY 'The family lived. there for maler of years, th rancisco, where by dint of omnee they elenred und made another In 1855 ho moved to Section 28, Township 2 Sonth, Range 9, where he resided until his death, which took place on the 4th of October, 1825, aged seventy-three yeurs, widow survived over a year and di ib, at the age of sixty-nine 'They reared a lunge family of children, vite: - Nancy, Fraukli beth, Robert, John T., Willian, J

Warrick C d., the lutter to Kent Wallace und wife were both members o t Episcopal Church and he was for many yours n elas loader, He was a Whig and Republican, wud being strongly opposed to the institution of aluvery it wus the n of hiv leaving Kentucky. Mo was alsin hotanie doctor and was suecessful in the practi Hong his main occupation was that of a farrier Sohn Wallace, u son of John Wallace, was born in. Ohio County, Kentucky, in tho year 1816, and came to this county with his parenta, he was married three. times, His first wife was Naney King, 'The isu of that nnion was two children, Charles and Frances, both decensed. The wife was Nancy Taylor, Ono hid 1, John W. Walluce, who was a soldier im the lute war, is married and in farming and lives on Section 28, Mr. Wallace third wile was Julia Ann Reavis. As the fruits of this marriage they hu six children, three of whom are deut and three living, viz.: - Alexunder Ca, Corelin T. who married Aminda A. Foley, he i former md om Section 28, nd. Priscilla, the wife of Powers, ly reside at the old home place, |. Wallace died at the old homstend, Section 23, | of. April, 1990; bis widow still survives hi father, Willian ix nde in Ce ter Township.) Mr. Wall ly lifo vasa member 'of thu Methodist Episcopal Church, afterwards became of the United Brethren Church. Two of hix sons, Charles and John Wr, were soldiers in the lute wa The former diol wt The Dold family as it will he observes, though not pioners of the township, yet throuzh intetu urea some of the old resident families, have become idi fied here, and it is therefore proper that we make tiom of thom. John W. Dodd was n native of Ad County, Mlinois, born April à, 1920. After he grew to wulo he moved to Gibson County, and settled Fort Bra y the 5th of February, 19416, ihe was the daughter of George She was born in Baden, As will bo observed, the By family were Germans." In 1882 they emigrated to this country, landing at Baltimore, and in that city Mr. Byer and one daughter died. His widow married John G. Weller and they moved in 1397 to the neighborhood of Fort Branch in Gibson County. Mr. Dad wife had a family of thirteen children, five of whom are eeeasel. Those living, in the order of their births are, Samuel, resident of this county; Elizabeth Ana, wife of Thomas J. Catharine M., wife of Silas Harper, now living in Wabash County, John L; Emily J., wife of Joseph F. Farmor: Joseph E., James W., and George Fletcher Dodd. Mr. Dodd was a carpenter hy trade, but also curried on farming at the place where hin widow now resides. D.

f May, 1820, and came to Gibson parents in the year 1827. His fu "Thomas Williams and his mother's maiden name was Margaret Eston. She was a daughter of Samuel Eston. Thomas Williazas nnd his fu Township on Nash Creek southwest of Priuccto Thomas Williams' family consisted of nine children the onder of their uges, Simul A. was the third child. His wife died Aug. 1, 1817. He survived her until J uly 18, 1875. His death occurred at Princeton. Samnel A. Williams married Frances J. Wallace April 27, 1843. She Mr. Williams and wife have had a family of forte remarkable fact tat they are all stil

His son, Thoms J. Wilson, wus bora in Gibson County June 21, 1845. He was. soldier in the late war, mber of Company D, One Hnndred and Twentieth Regiment Indiuna Volunteers, uud participated in all the battles in which his regiment took a part. Dee. 31, 1869, ho married Elizabeth Dodd. She was the daughter of John W. Dodd - above mentioned. He and his wife ure both members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. They buve five children living. He is ope of the enterprising farmers of the towusl Un d tie in this township be monif: - James M. Steel is a native of y, born in the year 1881. Heis a farmer and stock raiser and a resident of Section 34. He married Priscilla Barrett. Martin A. Steel was also 1885. He married Elizabeth

Baldwin. He is a farmer and resident of Section 26. Archibald O'Neal was an early settler. He came here in 1899. He was a Tennessean by birth. He died April 25, 1841. His vocation was that of a farmer. His widow, who afterward married Hugh Watt, is still living and resides on the old home farm. She isa native of Lawrenceburg, Ohio, and came to this county in 1839. William J. Summers, a farmer and resident of Section 19, was born in this county in 1896. His frst wife was Cassander Heron. She died in August, 1863. His present wife is Mary Peed, me- Deadman. James Kennedy, Irishman by birth, becam a res dent here in 1848. His wife is Jane Martin. She was born in Gibson County in 1883 and is a memberof one of the early families. John V. Kell was bom in Chester District, South Carolina, in 1897. The names of bis parents were James and Jane (Sproule) Kell. His father was born in the year 1800; his mother in 1796. They were also natives of the state above men tioned. In 1827 they removed to Gibson County and settled a mile southwest of Princeton. Six years later removed to Wabash County, where the elder Kell died. The family returned to this county, and Mrs. Kell died in 1854. On the of September, 1849, John Y. murried Jane M. Gillespie. To them have been born six children. His wife died Feb. 16, 1876. He subsequently married Harriet Hooper, nre Skelton. Me. Kell has for many years been an elder of the U. P. Church, and is one of the well-to-do farmers of this township. William Nossett was born in Frederick County, Va., Nov. 6, 1818. Came here in 1815 and settled at Somers, near where Oakland now is, and established a blacksmith shop. Followed the trade two years then removed to near where he now resides. He 'was married Sept. 5, 1885, to Elizabeth Johnson. From this union were eight children. Mrs. Nossett died Oct. 12, 1855. The pareuts of our subjest were William Nossett and Delilah (Hickle) Nossett. They ha nine children - six boys and three girls. The old homestead was located ten miles from Winchestor, Va. All the children are deceased except William, who now, at the age of seventy-one years, is still engaged in farming in this township. Another resident is Martha Jane Eskew, whose first husband was Samuel J. Wakeland, and present husband John Eskew. Mr. Wateland died June 1, 1859. She was born in Warrick County, Tnd., and came here in 1859. John Eskew is a Kentuckian and became a resident in 1819. This township originally extended to the south line of the county 'and also comprised a portion of Center, and the early settlers living in those portions are mentioned in the sketches of those townships. Some of the early officers in Columbia, between the years 1825-99, were John Farmer, justice of the peace and James W. Cockrum, inspector of election for 1825 to 1826, and Thomas Potts and James Skelton"were constables from 1826 to