Gibson County, Indiana - The whole text, 1897 (part 5 of 5)

S. S. RRRD, president erf die town council and an enterprising real estate dealer «»f Oakland City, was Iwirn in Pike Connlv, Indiana, November 29, 183(1. Mis father. Rlija.li Reed, a native of North ( arolina. came to this state when about twenty years of age, locating in Pdoomington, where he married Rebecca Slater. Their children are John W., S. S. and Clark, all Of Gibson County; Richard and Rfisha. of Pike County; Joseph, Rlijah and Peter, of (iibson County; Jane, wife of Jacob Riddle; Phoebe, wife of Harrison Rnglish; Maiiuda, wife of Prank Pilderback; Rebecca, wife of William Davis; ami Sarah, wife of George Ross. The paternal grandfather, Rolxrt Reed, was born in North Carolina, followed farming througlfcmt life and died in Warrick County, Indiana. S. S. Reed s|>ent his boyhood days on Iris father's farm and in the winiter season attended school, lie first k'ft home to enter his country's service as a defender of the Union, enlisting in Company K, Porty-secoml Indiana Infantry, in September, i8bi. I le was mustered in at Rvansville, and Iirs4 met the enemy in battle at Perrvsville. I le participated in the Atlanta campaign, then returned north with General lliomas and took part in the battle of Rrankliu. At Rome, Georgia, on the expiration of his three years' term, he was honorably discharged in September, 1864. Por twenty years thereafter he followed farming, and then came to ( hkland City, where he successfully carried on mer¬ chandising until July, 1895. 11 is executive ability. Iris keen fore¬ sight and earnest laJtor brought to him pros|>crity, ami he is now devoting his time to his real estate interests, in which he has in¬ vested his well earned capital. Mr. Reed was married in Colum¬ bus, Missouri, in Rebruary, 1866, to Jane, daughter «of Ro 1 >ert Hayden, a farmer. They have three daughters - ILaura, wife of Dr. McCord; Lydia, wife of A. J. Carlisle, and Lula A., who married Rred IVeuton. Mr. Reed is an esteemed member of A. If. (Vickrum Post, G. A. R.;and in politics is a staunch Republican. In 1882 he was elected Justice of the Peace, serving for ten years, and is now president of the town council. He is also chairman of the Republican Central Committee of his township, and does all in his power to promote the growth and insure the success of his party.

GR()RGR A. KLRNCK is a worthy representative of the in¬ dustrial interests of Oakland City, where he is actively engaged in business as proprietor of the Columbia Milling Company. He erected the mill and began its operation in 1882. After conduct¬ ing it for two years ft was destroyed by fire in 1884, entailing a heavy loss, but the plant was at once restored and business re¬ sumed. Rmployment is furnished to seven men and the capacity of the mill is one hundred and fifty barrels of flour per day. The excellent grade of flour manufactured has secured a large and profitable business ami the enterprising owner rs now numbered among the prosperous residents of Oakland City. He was born in Vanderburgh County, Indiana, June j 8, 1856, and is a son of John W. Klcnck, who was horn in Wittenbaoh, Germany, in 1830, and rs now associated with his son in business. lie was married in Evansville, Indiana, to Catherine Matz, who died in Septeml>cr, 1893, leaving .six children, namely: George A.; Jacob L.; Fred J.; Ameha, wife of Fred Rice, of Evansville; Mary ami Maggie. George A. Klenck was reared and educated in his native county, ami learned Hie milling business under IT. Vahlberg, of Evans¬ ville, Indiana. In 1878. he went to Kansas City, Missouri, where he spent one year in the service of the Kansas City Milling Com¬ pany, and then returned to Evansville, where he was employed in tire mill of George Rnose, until 1881. He has since been identified with the business interests of Oakland City. On the 10th of November, 1881, in Vanderburgh County, was consum¬ mated the nrarriage of Mr. Klenck and Miss Carrie, daughter of Edward Wilhelm. Their children are John E., Carl F., Roy, George and Tessie. Mr. Klenck is a prominent member of the Masonic Fraternity, belongs to the Knight Templar Command¬ er)*, is past chancellor of the Knights of Pythias Fraternity, and has represented both organizations in the grand lodge. He is tliioroughly American in spirit, a loyal citizen and an advocate of sound money.

GEORGE M. ROHNERT, one of the leading merchants of Oakland City, and secretary, treasurer and manager of the Oak¬ land City Electric Light Company, was born in Jasper, Indiana, April 25, 1865. His father, Wendohn Rohnert, was born in Ger¬ many, and married Kuhnde Kuhtida. Roth died alftwt twentyseven years ago, leaving a good estate. Their children are Josq>h, of Washington, Indiana; John, of Colorado: Antone, of jasper,Indiana; Henry,of Washington;Edward,of Jasper;Gcorgc M.; Albert, of Jasper; ami Mary, wife of John 1 \ Fubs. The subject of this sketch learned the tinner's trifle with Levi Spayd, ami after a year went to Washington, Indiana, where lie entered the employ of J. H. Maher, with whom he remained five years. He then came to Oakland City, and entered the tin department in the liardware store of Mr. Springer, but after six months he bought out his employer. He now carries a large ami well se¬ lected stock of shelf and heavy liardware, and is doing a good business along that line. In March, 1893, in company with bred Audi, he established the electric light plant, with a capacity of two tlvousaml caudle power, and is now conducting the same. He is also a director of the building ami loan association, and iris close connection with the industrial ami commercial interests of the city has not only brought to him success, hut has largely advanced the material welfare of Hie community, fn politics lie is an advocate of the Democracy. On the 28th of May, 1890, in

Warrick C ounty, Mr. Rohnert IchI to the marriage altar Miss Annie Kimlermaii, a dauglitcr of William Kimlermaii, a prom¬ inent citizen ami retired merchant of Roonvillc. Tlvey liave two children - Mildred M. and Harry. Mr. Rohnert is a member of the Ancient (>rder of United Workmen, the Modem Woodmen of America and -the Knights of Pythias Fraternity, and 1 >y Iris hrethren of these societies is held in high esteem.

JOHN F. GUDGEL, M. I)., one of Hie aldcst |Vhysicians of Gibson Comity, wtrosc skill and ability have gained him marked efistinction as a member of the medical profession, is numbered among Hibson County's pioneers and native citizens, lie was Ixirn in Columbia ftnvnship, January 29, 1849. His father, An¬ drew Cudgel, was l>orn near Owensville, Imhana, in 1825, a son of William Gudgel. who was of German descent ami removed from his Kentucky liomc to Owensville, in 1812. Andrew Gudgcl was a brave Union soldier during the Civil war, serving in Com¬ ically A, Erfty-ciglitli Indiana Infantry, and is now a leading citizen of Columbia township, daughter of John Wallace. Hie Doctor is the second ofdherr five ebildren. It was his parents' wish that lie follow the pursuit to wlridh he was reared - farming, but a liberal education and a decided taste for professional life placed his choice elsewhere. At an early age he began teaching in the pub¬ lic scl*x>ls, which profession he followed for six years, anil at die age of twenty-two took up Hie study of Medicine, under the di¬ rection of Dr. W. J. McGowan, of Oakland City. He was a student in the Miami School of Medicine in Cincinnati, in 1874-5. after which he s|>eiit three years in active practice in Hazelton, ami then entered the Kentucky School of Medicine, wlierc he was graduated in 1879. He has since 1 >een one of the active prac¬ titioners of Gibson County, and to-day enjoys a liberal jiatronagc. He is a member of the County Medical Society, and the Missis¬ sippi Valley Medical Association, and is a man whose broad study lias made him csi>ccial1y well fitted for bis chosen calling. Tire Doctor was married in Hazelton in April, 1875, to Nancy ttaldwin, daughter of Reuben 1'aldwin, a retired merchant of Princeton, and a retired merchant of Gibson County. They have five children - Harry lb, horn in 1877; Jesse Ik, born in 1879; Millara, in 1881; Everct D., in 1883; an <l Ruth E., in 1885. The Doctor belongs to the Masonic Fraternity, ami is a Republi¬ can in politics.

R. R. RICK FITS, M. D. - There is no field of labor to which man devotes Iws energies which calls for more thorough investi¬ gation ami broader research than tlie medical profession. One cannot by purchase or influence attain an honorable place among its members, but must by skill and ability work Ills way upward. 'Iliis Dr. Ricket ts has done, and bis high rqmtation enables him to command a liberal patronage. The Doctor was born in Warrick

County, Indiana, Scptemebr 20, 1839, a son °f Thomas and Mary (Edrington) Ricketts. His father was horn in Orange County, Indiana, followed fanning throughout his life, ai*d -died in War¬ rick County, in 1874, at the age of sixty-six years. The mother was a daughter of Silas Kdrington. a native of the Palmetto State. Tive Doctor is the second of a family of eleven children, but only -two are now living, he and his sister. Mrs. Isabel Shoemaker. The Doctor acquired his education in lloonville and Lynnville, and engage^ in the practice of medicine in Pike County at the age of twenty-eiglit, a representative of eclectic school. He located in Knox County in 1879, anf l * n 1890 removed to Hazeltoii. He now enjoys an extended practice, which at once attests his ability and the confidence reposed in him. He is a member of the Ec¬ lectic Medical Society of Indianapolis, ami socially is a Royal Arch Mason. His political support is given the Populist party. At the age of tvventv-two, Dr. Ricketts was married in Warrick County, to Mary ). Clark, who died in 1873, leaving two children - Lewis R., now deceased; and Franklin. In 1878 the Doctor was again married in Warrick County, his second union being with Mary A., daughter of Jacob Reed. Three dlnldren bless this union - Homer, A. Russell and Silas.

CHARLES L. 1 IOWARD, whose ability as an educator is well known in Gibson County, was bom in Hazclton, in the house which is now his lrewnc, September 1, 1866. His father. Dr. E. J. Howard, a native of Tennessee, was graduated from the Med¬ ical College of Nashville, and in 1862 came to Hazelton. For two years he was principal of the first graded school established here and was a leading promoter of interests calculated to benefit the community. He served his country as a Union soldier in the One Hundred and Forty-third Indiana Infantry, and was a valiant defender of the stars and stripes. He died October 4, 1882, ait file age of fifty-four years. His witknv, who bore the maiden name of Mary E. Monk, still survives him. Their children arc William H., of Terre Haute, Indiana; Amy J. and Charles L. At the early age of eighteen Clerics L. Howard began teaching, and for six years followed that profession in the country schools. He was then made principal of the graded schools of Hazelton, acting in that capacity from 1889 until 1895. Ills brohd general inform¬ ation andh is capability of imparting readily to others the knowl¬ edge he has acquired, has made him very successful in the line of educational work, and his fellow townsmen have shown their appreciation of his services by electing him to the office of Trustee of White River township, so that he now has in charge the schools of that district. He was nominated for that position on the Dem¬ ocratic ticket and was elected in November, 1894, by a majority of ninety-seven, altflfough the Republicans had carried the district the previous year. TTiis fact vveil indicates his personal popularity ami the confidence reposed in Him. Socially lie is past master of Hie Masonic Fraternity, past grand of the (>dd Fellows' Society, and a member of the Knights of Pythfcus anti tbc Ancient Order of United Workmen.

MARSHALL HARRISON has been an important factor in tiie development ami pn>grcss of (iibson County, and his name is inse|iarably connected with ks business and political history. He was 1 *>rn in this county. March 5, 1839. His fattier, Azza Harrison, a native of Mason County, Kentucky, located here about 1836. lie was Ixirn in 1801, and <Kcd in Vincennes, Indi¬ ana, in 1876. He married Nancv E. Evans, who departed this life in April, 1893. Her children arc Jane, widow of Josiali Nixon; Elizabeth, deceased wife of J. T. Ewing; Tabitlia, deceased wife of John Wilburn: Marshall; Mary, wife of WMlfcwn Kings¬ bury, of Ponca, Nebraska; Melvina, deceased wife of J. T. Ewing; and Henry. The grandfather of our subject, Samuel Harrison, was a native of Maryland, and removed to Kentucky during its pioneer c|*och. Marshall Harrison spent his boyhood days in the usual manner of farmer lads and after mastering the branches of study tauglit in the common scliools, spent one year in school in Mason County, Kentucky. During the greater part of his life lie carried on agricultural pursuits. Soon after his marriage he pnrcliascd a portion of the old homestead, whereon he resided until after the death of his wife. Since 1892 he lias devoted his at¬ tention to other interests, both public ami private. lie was married in Deccmlier, 1862, in \Vhke River township, to Sarah Riley, daughter of James Riley. She died in April, 1894. leaving one child, L. W., now a reporter for the Morning Sun, published in Springfield, Ohio. Mr. Harrison has long been an active worker in the interests of Democracy, and was Ins party's candi¬ date for County Treasurer in 1894. He was elected Township Trustee in 1887, ami re-elected in 1889, serving in all for seven years. No more capable official has ever been called to that office. During his incundieiicy he succeeded in paying off a township debt of five thousand three hundred dollars, much of which Iwul been incurred twelve years previous. Through bis instrumen¬ tality five new school houses were erected and the old ones remod¬ eled by-building vestibules ami putting in slate blackboards. He supplied the township with new road graders and scrapers, awl after all tins cx)iemliture, turned over to his successor one thou¬ sand dollars in cash. His able administration wrongful a vast im¬ provement in the township, and his king continuance in office well indicated the satisfaction which Ins fellow townsmen felt over li!is work, lie is one of the most progressive and public-spirited residents of this section of (iibson County, and Ins circle of friends is very extensive.

of Hardin Comity, Kentucky, located in Montgomery township, Cribson County, in 1817, and in 1838 removed to White River township. The same year he l>egaii flaUxxiting, carrying pork and corn to New Orleans. His business increased as time )>assed until he had quite a large number of boat A, making annual trips to the Crescent City. He continued that business until 1862, when the Civil war prevented all intercourse between the two of tlve country. Throughout his remaining days he fol¬ lowed farming, and died in 1880, a! the age of seventy-ciglit years. He was a man of keen foresight and business sagacity, progressive and public-spirited, and was frequently called to serve as County Commissioner by the Democratic party. His father, Alexander llinlelson, w as a native of the ILi neraki Isle, am! at his.death, at the age of seventy-nine, was laid to rest in the cemetery of Prince¬ ton. The mother of (Mir subject, Elizabeth Hudelson, was a daughter of Patrick Paine, a Virginian, whose ancestors were from Prance. Mrs. Hudelson died in 1856. Of her eleven chil¬ dren the following survive: Annie E. t wife of R. N. Parrott, of Pat oka: Susan A., wife of Thomas Stewart; Martha I., widow of Rev. f. L. Craig; Hattie 15 ., wdfc of L. 11. Church,, of Cairo, Illi¬ nois; Kate 15 ., wife of W. D. Daniels, of Evansville; and W. F. The hast named acquired his early education in the primitive sub¬ scription schools, but afterward attended the State University in I'loomingtoil. In 1859 embarked in farming on his own ac¬ count, and was thus occupied until August, 1862, when lie enlisted for three years' service in Company A, Thirtieth Indiana Infantry. He was mustered in at Princeton, then went to Jvouisville, after¬ ward participated in the battle of Perry ville, Kentucky, and thence went to Knoxville, where Mr. Hudelson suffered an attack of rheumatism, which prevented his further service in the field. He was mustered out August n, 1865, ami for twelve years-thereafter engaged in merchandising at Patoka. In 1880 he was elected Trustee, the first Republican ever chosen to tlwft position in White River township. He has been notary public for several years, and for two years was elected Justice of the Peace. Mr. Hudelson was married in October, 1866, to Delilah Ann, daughter of Archibald Spain. Their children are Charles, now train dis¬ patcher in Esthervillc, Iowa; Agnes, wife of M. (>. I'ickncll, of IDl Paso, Texas; and Oliver, of Patoka.

R. N. CHAPPELLE, principal of the - Patoka schools, was liorn in Pike County, Indiana, November 1, 1868. ami is a repre¬ sentative of one of the pioneer families of this state. J Jis greaN grandfather came from North Carolina to Indiana at a very early day, atul the grandfather, Stephen Cliappefle, was born in an old block house in Petersburg. His father, Captain W. E.

(hnppellc, was horn in Pike County, sixty-two years ago, an<l has spent his entire life as an agricukunst. As commander of Company 1 , Fifty-eighth Indiana Infantry, he won his title, ami among the valiant Ixiys in blue he was numbered. Me married Elizabeth Case, daughter of Washington Case, ami they became parents of nine children - McL., postmaster of Mimlen, Ne¬ braska; Sto|)hen R., of Mimlen; Austin M., of Algiers, Indiana; William J\, of Arkansas; James L., of Illinois; Carrie I 7 -., wife of Perry Anderson, of Dulxiis County, Indiana; Maggie A., wife of Lewis Taylor, of Pike County; and Frederick E., of Algiers. (>n his father's farm Professor Cha|>pcllc spent his bovlrood and his elemetary education, acquired in Petersburg, Indiana, was supplemented bv study in the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis, Mary kind. At the age of nineteen he began teach¬ ing in Pike County. The following year he taught in Cibson County, and in 1891 was employed in the Princeton schools. Since 1892 he has been principal of the Patbka schools, and has raised them to a liigh standard of excellence. Among the effi¬ cient educators of Southern Indiana lie is numbered, his ability gaining him marked prestige. Professor Chappellc was married in (lihson County, Septcmlicr 10, 1895, to Alda, dauglUcr of Amlrew Cunningham, and they Hravc one son, Charles R. Mr. Chappcllc l>elongs to the Order of Red Men, and is senior deacon in the blue lodge of Masons.

W. Ik DCNCAN, M. a practicing physician of Patoka, was horn in Pike County, Indiana, January 20. 1851, a son of John J. and Harriet Duncan. The former was born in 1823, ami was a son of Shadrack Duncan, whose father emigrated from Scot-: land to America. The maternal gramffather's name was Routt. John Duncan died in 1889 and his wife many years previous. Their children were Dr. W. Ik; Mary, wife <>f Jacob McAtee; Ellen Ik, wife of Melvin Colt; and Eckless, who married Anson Jerauld. After the dcatb of his first wife, John Duncan wedded Rillo Woods, bv whom be bad four children - Obic, Joseph, Mabel and I lattie. Dr. Duncan spent bis Ijoylwxxl on his father's farm and after attaining his majority s|>cnt one year in school in IMoomfield to fit himself for teaching. He followed that pro¬ fession one year, and then Ix'gan reading medicine tinder l>r. S. C. Cravens, of I'Uxunficld. Subsequently he spent three years in the Indianapolis College of Physicians and Surgeons, where he was graduated in the class of 1877. Locating in IWoomfield he engaged in practice for four years, also conducted a drug store, and through the succeeding lour years lie resided on a farm which he operated in addition to his practice. In 1885 lie came to IV toka, where lie s<x>n gained a large patronage, wlwch from the loginning has steadily increased. For seven years he conducted a drug store here, but the growth of bis practice at length com- polled him to relinquish this. In Greene County, Indiana, Dr. Duncan was united in marriage to Allie M. Buckner, a daughter of Edward Buckner, a merchant. They have three children - Belle, Frank and Edith, and their social standing in their adopted city is very high. The Doctor is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and is a popular, genial gentleman, who, aside from his profession, has won many friends. He lias kept fully abreast with the progress made in the science of medicine, and has a well earned reputation as a skilled physician.

ROBERT A. FIELD. - The stability or substantial progress of a county or state is due largely to its agriculturists and of this class our subject is a Worthy rqiresentative. He was !*>rn in Gibson County, Match 7, 1855, and is a representative of one of the oldest families-of the state. His grandfather, Abraham Field, was horn in Indiana, in a little pioneer home which Iris parents had established on this then wild western frontier among the Indians. Joseph J. Field, father of our subject, was born in 1831, ami made farming his life work. He married Nancy Phillips, daughter of Robert Phillips, a pioneer blacksmith of Gibson County. Mr. Field died at the early age of 'thirty-two. His children were Cyirtiria, wife of Wilson Kinney, of Kingston, Cali¬ fornia; Robert A.; Grace, wife of Joe Fawcett, of Shelbyville, Illinois. Mr. Field was twice married, his second union being with Rachel Morrison, by whom he had a daughter, Nancy J., now the wife of Henry Policy. From the early age of nine years Robert Field has depended on his own exerttons for a liveli¬ hood. He was industrious, energetic and ambitious, ami at the time of his marriage had accumulated sufficient capital to estab¬ lish a pleasant little home. After two years spent in Patoka lie rented the Wefbom farm and later the Miller farm, cultivating the same until 1889, wh£n he purchased one hundred and sixty acres. This he placed under a high state of cultivation ami the com¬ modious residence, suiistanrial barns and well tilled fields all indi¬ cate tlie thrift ami enterprise of the owner. Mr. Field was married September 12, 1881, to Miss Fannie Newsum, daughter of James I. Newsum, deceased. Their children are Tobe, Elmer, Eldren, Lctc and Walter. Mr. Fiekl is a Democrat, and a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen. A self-made man, lie de¬ serves great credit for Iris success in life, for all that lie possesses is the reward of his labors.

JEFFERSON TURPIN, a self-made man whose energy and well directed efforts have brought to trim a comfortable com¬ petence, and whose sterling worth hais won him the high regard of many friends, was born in Henderson County, Kentucky, No¬ vember 27, 1819. His grandfather, William Turpin, was horn in Virginia, in 1727, and was a patriot of the Revolutionary war. He died in Henderson County, Kentucky, at the very advanced age of one hundred ami three, and liis wife at the age of one hundred and two. The father of our subject, William Turpin, Jr., was born in tlie Old Dominion in 1784, and was a soldier of the war erf 1812. He married Annie Slavin, who died in Wash¬ ington township, Gibson County, in 1838, wliilc 1 *is death oc¬ curred in 1844, t'lieir remains being interred on Wlritc River. Their children were Alfred, deceased; Jefferson: Isaac, deceased; lictsy, deceased wife of Slicp Dawson; Mtchacl, deceased; Sallic, who also married Mr. Dawson, ami has now passed away: and Calvin. Jefferson Turpin spent bis youth in bis native county, and was early trained to habits of industry, for bi% patents were in limited circumstances, and be was forced to assist in the work of the farm ami to provide for his own maintenance. In 183311c came to (irbsoh County, and for twenty-five years resided in Patoka township. At the age of twenty-five be married Caroline, daughter of Asa Decker, ami located 011 a farm of one hundred acres, which lie still owns. In 1866 bis wife died and for bis second wife lie cltose Samantha Decker, daughter of David Evans. His chiklrcn, l>orn of the first marriage, arc Clark, Har¬ riet, deceased wife of Joe Moore; Asa; James; Margaret, wife of Monroe McDaniel; Riley; John; Alice, wife of Ed Richey; ami Sherman. Mr. Turpin lias been a most energetic and progressive man. The obstacles and difficulties in bis |>ath he lias overcome bv determined effort, and lias worked bis way steadily upward. He is now the possessor of three hundred acres of valuable land and bis farm is one of the best in tlie township. In politics be is a Democrat, socially is a Mason, and in religious belied is a Cum¬ berland 1 Ycsbyterian.

WILLIAM C. McFFTRTDGE. - A little more than forty years years ago - January 28, 1855 - hi White River township, Gibson Count), was born the gentleman whose name begins this sketch, and wiio, through the greater part of bis life Iras been numbered among the leading farmers of the community. His grandfather was one of the first settlers of this county, emigrating from South Carolina. 11 is father, John Quincy McEetrklge. was born in Gibson County, in 1828, and spent bis entire life here, a prosper¬ ous and progressive farmer. He married Cynthia C. Hargrove, who still survives him, bis death having occurred in 1890. Their children were William C.; Fannie, wife of Henry Steelman; Mollie F.; 1 -aura, wife of William Mc( lee; Edgar and Minnie. William C. McFctridgc is indebted to the diistrict schools for his educational privileges. 1 le pursued his studies during the winter season, and in the summer mouths assisted in the labors of the home farm until his marriage, when lie located on a farm which tie had previously purchased and which lias since been 'bis liomc. It comprises two hundred and thirty 1 four acres of valuable land, and the well tilled fields yield to the owner a golden tribute in return for his care and cultivation. Tn December, 1882, Mr. McFetridge wedded Fannie E. Knatib, daughter of Norman Knauh, of German lineage. They have five children - Charles W., Myrtle, Pascal R., Lester and Ernest. Mr. McFetridge is a supporter of the Populist party. He belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America ami to the Methodist Church. Coming of a family of pioneers, like l*is ancestors lie has akled in the de¬ velopment of the county, by his faithful performance of the duties of citizenship, and 'by his earnest support of all measures calculated to prove of public benefit.

F*RANK J. KIGHTLY. - In a brief sketch of any living citizen it is difficult to do him exact and impartial justice. Not from lack of space or words to set forth the familiar and passing events of his personal history, but because a modesty that shuns anything egotistic prevents tlie enterprising business man from setting forth in bokl outlines the history of his useful career. In Mr. Kightly, however, Gibson County recognizes one who has been an important factor in its development. He was born in Evans¬ ville, Indiana, August 13, 1849, a son of Josiali Kightly, one of the prominent business men of Hazelton. His father was bom in Chatteras, England, in January, 1822, and at tlie age of twentythree years sailed for the United States, landing at New Orleans. He made his way to Evansville, Indiana, where lie secured em¬ ployment with tlie firm of Babcock Brothers, in whose service lie remained for seventeen years. In April, 1862, he came to Hazelton, where he embarked in merchandising, carrying on Iris store alone until 1875, when he formed a partnership ami thus conducted it until 1884. He lias large rca -1 estate interests in Hazelton, and owns valuable farming land in Gibson and Knox counties. Front 1882 until 1888 lie served as County Commissioner, and was a painstaking and trustworthy official, whose devotion to tlie public welfare was most marked. Josiali Kightly was married in Evans¬ ville in 1848, to Elizabeth Furnis, who died in 1867. Tlie children of that union were Frank J.; William and Sarah J., both deceased; Mary E.; W. R.; and John R., deceased. In 1869 the father married Sarah Rowe, and their cliikl is Lucy, wife of William Ennis, of Princeton. The grandfather of our subject was William Kightly, an English farmer. Frank J. Kightlv spent the first thir¬ teen years of his life in the city of his birth, and then removed with bis father to Hazelton. At the age of seventeen lie started out in life for himself, and for four years worked as a farm hand at sixteen dollars per month. He tlien began farming on *his own account, and has met success in his chosen calling. Industry and enterprise are his two dominate qualities and combined with sound judgment in his business affairs have brought to him a handsome competence, so that lie is now numbered among the prosperous farmers of White River township. His political support is given

Ihe Republican party. Mr. Kightly was married at the age of thirty. September 2. 1870, to Mrs. Lue Edwards, a daughter of Adam Miller, and widow of Jesse Edwards. By lier former mar¬ riage she had two children - Willis ami Lillie, the latter the wife of Columbus Austin.

HARVEY MILBURN, the efficient ami popular principal of Hie Tlazclton schools, is a successful educator, and his exceptional ability has gained him marked prestige among the younger rep¬ resentatives of his profession in Indiana. He was born in Linn County, Missouri, August i, 1870. Ilis father, Augustus Milburn, was born in Patoka, Indiana, fifty-eight years ago, and his ancestors were farming people, industrious and honorable. Eor three years during the Civil war he followed the stars ami stripes on southern battle fields, valiantly defending the Union cause, and for his meritorious service was promoted to the rank of Captain of Company C, Eiftv-ciglvth Indiana Infantry. He married Miss Isabel l)evin$, daughter of Wayton Dcvin.^, and their home was blessed with five children, namely: Preston, Alexander, Harvey I 4 '., Stic and Marv. The grandfatlver of our subject wais John Milburn, a well known nioiiccr of Gibson County. His father aW bore the name of JwilWiml came from Kentucky to this county at a very early day, locating on what has since l>eeu known as the Milburn farm, three miles east of Patoka. Urns the family lias been identified with this locality from the days of its earliest settlement. Harvey Milburn, although born in Missouri, lias resided in Gibson County since 1873, at which time his parents returned to their old home. He acquired his preliminary education in the Patoka schools, and was afterward graduated on tlie completion of the teachers' Course at the South¬ western University of Princeton. I^ater he spent three ycairs in the State University, and has 1 >oen thus ably prepared for 1ms chosen vocation. He taught bis first term in the Decker school house, liis second in the Steelman district, and tlvcn became as¬ sistant at I lazeltou. When only twenty-five years of age lie was made principal of the schools of Hazelton, ami is now serving his second year in that capacity. Tlfat he has the popular ap¬ proval is shown by his re-election to Hie position, and his able administration has produced a number of excellent improvements in tire schools.

BYRON S. SPAIN, a leading farmer and influential citizen of White River-township, is a descendant of one of the first settlers of Gibson County. His great-grandfather, Abraham Spain, was lx>rn in Dinwiddle County, Virginia, February 23, 1770, and was married there to Betsy AUcn, who was born in 1773, and was a relative of the daring Colonel, Ethan Allen, who commanded the Green Mountain 1 >oys during the Revolutionary war. Wilfli their seven children, Mr. and Mrs. Spain started for the territory of

Indiana in 1813, but circumstances led them to change their plans, ami they went instead to Rutherford Counity, North Carolina. Two years laiter they again started for tlve Hoosier State, and eventually arrived in Gibson County, then forming a part of Knox County. On the journey they had a horse team and ox team ami a cow. They located on Congress land, and tfhe hus¬ band developed a farm. He died in 1813, and lies buried in tfhe Holcomb cemetery, thirteen miles south of Princeton. Archi¬ bald W. Spain, the grandfather, was born in 1798, and died in 1870. He married Sarah Garwood, and became a prosperous farmer. One of his ten children was William A. Spain, the father of our subject. He married Jemima McFetridge. He was born May 4, 1828, and died in 1886, leaving an estate of more than five hundred acres, which he had accumulated by his own well directed efforts. His children are Byron S.; Daniel C: Pleasant N.; de¬ ceased; J. W.; Dora J. f deceased wife of William Qirpenter; Emma B. and Harrison M. f who have also departed this life; Florence F., wife of Charles Johnson, of South Dakota; Mary A., wife of Ellis Tichcnor; William A.; Charles A. and Lillie, twins; and Purvis A. Byron S. Spain was bom December 12, 1849, am l was reared to manhood within a half mile of his present residence. He completed his education in Patoka. and then turned his attention to agricultural pursuits, which he has since followed. He first rented part of his father's farm for six years, and in 1878 purchased sixty-five acres of land, to which he has added from time to time as his financial resources have increased, until he is now the owner of a valuable property of two hundred and seventy-five acres. He early formed habits of industry, which have had an important bearing upon his entire life, and making good use of his opportunities he has prospered from year to year. On the 1st of May, 1872, Mr. Spain married Arvilla Decker. Her parents are both deceased, and her brothers and sisters are Payton, James P., John, Howard and Marcellus. Seven children graced the home of Mr. and Mrs. Spain - -Maggie M., wife of David Hazleton; Fred P.; William W.; Nellie D.; Allen G. C.; Bessie and Ruth. Mr. Spain is a Democrat, and was the party's candidate for Sheriff in 1884, at which time he was defeated by only forty-six votes, although the county has an acknowledged Republican majority of two hundred. He is a worthy representa¬ tive of an honored pioneer family and well deserves representation in this volume.

ERI WILLIAMS, who is engaged in general farming iu White River town-strip, was horn in Portage County, Ohio, July 12, 1841, ami traces his ancestry back to the sturdy citizens of the little rock-ribbed country of Wales. His grandfather was a na¬ tive of that land, and was pressed into the British service against the Colonies in the war of the Revolution. When the war was over, so pleased was lie with the country tbalt lie made a location in New York, and afterward removed to Ohio. John Williams, the father of our subject, was born in the lUtekeye State, and dice! in Knox County in 1856, at the age of sixty-five years. He wedded Mary Ames, who died in 1876, and of tlieir nine children EH and F. It. are the only ones now living. Our subject was brought by his parents to Indiana in 1852, the family locating in Knox County, where lie resided until 1886, when he became a resident erf Gibson County. His educational privileges were meagre, but experience and observation has made him a well in¬ formed man. At The beginning of the Civil war he enlisted in Company K, Twenty-fourth Indiana Infantry in July, 1861. 11 is regiment formed a part of General Grant's army, operalting on the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, and he first met the enemy in battle at Fort Donelson. He participated in the battle of Shiloh and in the Vicksburg campaign, including the engagements at Fort Gibson, Raymond, Edwards' Station and Champion Hills. At the last named be was shot in the leg, and was sent to the Evans¬ ville Hospital, where be remained until die expiration of his term. He then returned to Knox County, ami as soon as his health per¬ mitted began the operation of a rented farm. Industry, persever¬ ance and economy have characterized bis career, and at length have brottglrt to him a justly deserved success. Mr. Williams was married in September, 1865, to Rollv Thompson, who died in 1868. In 1872 be wedded Harriet Tolbert, and ito them were bom two children - Mnimie, wife of Fred Shugert; and Edward. In November, 1886, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Williams ami Mrs. Lydia Ihotnpson, the widow of Robert D. Thompson, and the only daughter of Stewart Cunningham. Four children grace this union - James, Granville, and Emma ami Eva, twins. Roth the paternal and maternal ancestors of Mrs. Williams were pioneers of Gibson County. Her great-grandfather, John Cun¬ ningham, was a Georgia planter, who come to This County in 1812, ami located in Wlnitc River township, just cast of Hazleton. II is son, William Cunningham, married Sahie Decker, daughter of Abraham Decker, ami died here in 1865, when about seventy years of age. Stewart Cunningham was married in 1842 to Georgians Robb, a dauglttcr of David Robb. Mr. and 'Mrs. Williams l>oth own good farms in White River township, and the former has a valuable fanning property in Knox County. Their long residence in this section of the state has made them widely known and the circle of their warm .friends is extensive.

WILLIAM A. HARNETT was born August 24, 1859, 0,1 ^ 1C old family 'homestead, and is a representative of one of the earliest families of Gibson County. O11 coming To the county the grand¬ father of our subject purchased a large and heavily wooded tract of government land along the White River. He was born in Kcn- tucky, May 11, 1800, and on live 17th of December, 1826, married Margaret Moscly, who was born September 25, 1804. They be¬ came parents of fourteen children. The grandfather died Sep¬ tember 4, 1863, and tlie grandmother December 12, 1880. Of their family Robert S. Barnett was Hie fifth in order of birth, and 011 Hie 17U1 of March, 1833. At five outbreak of the Civil war he joined the boys in blue of Company C, Eightieth Indiana In¬ fantry, enlisting at Danville, Kentucky, ami laid down his life on the altar of (his country, for death' came to him while in the ser¬ vice, October 31, 1862. He Avas married On the 4th of November, 1858, to Miss Mary Nagle, whose father was a native of Germany, and one of the early settlers of Indiana. She survived her hus¬ band thirty years, and carefully reared their two children - William A., of this review; and Sarah, now the wife of Z. N. Einney, of Gibson County. Her death occurred in 1894, and was deeply mourned by many friends. William A. Barnett has sjient almost his entire life in the old family homestead. He aided in its development during his boyhood ami is now the owner of a considerable portion of that tract which his grandfather en¬ tered so many years ago. His preliminary education Avas supple¬ mented by study under the direction of Dr. Howard. He embarked in business in Hazelton in 1877. but after two years returned to the farm and purchased the interest of the other heirs in the property, since which time he has successfully cultivated it. For some years he has also been the agent of the Challenge Wind Mill and Eeed Mill Company, and .his success in this di¬ rection winning for him the confidence and trust of the company he has recently been made thdr general agent for Indiana. He is a mail of excellent executive business ability and keen foresight, and his prosperity is well merited. Mr. Barnett was married November 14, 1888, to Carrie D., daughter of Martin Beck, of Gibson County, ami their children are Arthur, Marv M., Sarah Esther and an infant. Mr. Barnett is one of the leading and in- t fluential members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church of JIazehon, was largely instrumental in securing the erection of the house of worship there, and has done all in his power to pro¬ mote the growth and extend the influence of the church. lie is connected with the Ancient Order of United Workmen, the Modem Woodmen of America, and the Independent Order of Odd FelloAVs, and Ivas been an active participant in political affairs, in connection with the Democratic party.

J. W. STEELMAN, a leading and influential farmer of White River township, \A r as born July 20, 1853. and Avas the sixth child of John W. and Elizabeth (Hinkle) Steelman. His paternal grandfather was of English birth, but his parents avcic probably Welsh. Their emigration to America Avas followed by their im¬ mediate settlement in Ohio, where some of their descendants still reside*, The maternal grandfather of our subject was John Hinkle, who emigrated from the Keystone State to Ohio, and theme to Indiana. John \V. Steelman, the father, was horn in C hampaign County. Ohio. sevent\-four years ago, and in 18O3 removed from C lark (minty, that state, to Gibson County, where -his remaining days were passed. 1 hiring his long life 'he was an industrious, useful and thrifty citizen. In Iris youth he learned the cooper s trade, which he followed much of the time until his removal to Indiana., He had a wide acquaintance, and all Who knew him respected him for his sterling worth. Mr. and Mrs. Steelman were the parents of the following named children: Rebecca, wife of Frank Fames; Catherine, wife of Aaron Wavne, of Clark County, Kansas .Phoebe, of Reuben Sibcrt; William, who married Ellon RoM>, and is now deceased; Amanda, de¬ ceased; Mark: Mary, who has also passed away; Henry; Fannie, wife of William McFetridgc; Kllen; and Dora, wife of Alex. Hinkle. Mr. Steelman, whose name introduces this sketch, be¬ gan his education in the common schools of Ohio, and completed it in School District No. 4 of White River township. On the 15th of Septemi>er. 1S75. be married Miss Caroline Knaub, daugh¬ ter of Norman and Caroline (McCartney) Knaub, both of whom are now deceased. 'Hie father, a native of Pennsylvania, died September 8, i8<^. Mr. and Mrs. Steelman are the parents of seven children - Eva, who died at the age of two years; Fred, Frank, Fern, Mary, Arthur and Lulu. Mr. Steelman is a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen and (he Odd Fellows' Society, and also belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Olvurch. His entire life has been devoted to farming and in his undertakings lias met with a fair degree of success, resulting from his enterprise and diligence.

MILTON McROHERTS has 1 >cen prominently identified with the public interests of Washington township, ami rs one of its .leading and influential farmers. He was horn near his present home. November 24, 1850. His grandfather, David Me Roberts, died near Cincinnati, Ohio, many years ago. His father, Artenius T>. McRobcrts, was a native of Kentucky, was reared in llic Ruckeyc State, and when a young man came to Gibson County. Here be married Indiana Lewis, a daughter of Stqvhen Lewis, and they became parents of the following children, namely: Milton, Narcissa J., wife of Henry Phillips; Artemius IE; Francis M.: Willard S. and Jerome, both deceased: and David C. Milton McRobcrts, the immediate subject of this sketch, received such educational advantages as were afforded by the common schools of the neighborhood, and from bis early youth was trained to habits of industry on the home farm. At the time of bis marriage lie purchased a part of the old homestead, ami as bis financial * resources have increased has added to bis property until he now owns a valuable trad of land of one hundred and one acres, the greater part of which is under a high state of cultivation. The well tilled fields surround substantial buildings, which stand as monuments to the thrift and enterprise of the owner, and the neat appearance of the place indicates his careful supervision. He is progressive in his methods, systematic in his work and honorable in all his relations with his fellow men. The lady who beats the name of Mrs. Me Roberts was in her maidenhood Elizabeth Phil¬ lips, a dauglvter of John and Marv (Foster) Phillips. Their children are Clarence, born July 20, 1875; James L., born Septem¬ ber 14, 1877; John K., born October 30, 1879; Edith M., born April 12, 1884; Sallic (»., deceased. Iwirn April 21, 1887; Ethel, deceased, born June 19. 1890; Cornelia, born December 3T. 1891: and Lewis Milton, born January 19, 1894. Mr. McRoberts is a firm believer in the tenets of modern Democracy, and is a staunch supporter of the cause of his party. He was elected Trustee of Washington township in November. 1894. and since the 5th of August, 1895, has faithfully and acceptably discharged the duties of that position. He belongs to the Ancient Order of United Workmen.

W. L. McROBERTS, of Washington township, ex-County Commissioner of Gibson County, and a gentleman whose social and business ties bind him to his lieigtolxirs and friends closer than a brother, is a successful farmer, a useful citizen and a Christian man. He was horn in Hamilton County. Ohio, August 8, 1837. I11 the year 1840 bis father, the late David McRoberts, left the old Ohio home and turned bis head toward the Hoosicr state and stopped only when he had set foot upon the soil of this county. T11 Iris young days he was employed upon a canal in Ohio, and while so engaged his "boss" proposed to sell him a ninety-acre tract of land which lie owned in Indiana, and this proposition led to its purchase and to the removal of the family to Gibson County. He lived and labored on this farm till 1870, when he died. He was Ixirn in New York in 1805. His wife, nee Rebecca Abbott, died in 1873. She was the mother of thirteen children, of whom the following are living: Lucy, widow of Jetry Hillman; A. D.;

I laniard; William L.: and Marinda, wife of Calvin Minnier. The paternal grandfather of these children was David McRob¬ erts, a soldier of the war of 1812. Their mother's people, the Abbotts, were from the State of Maryland. Our subject was educated in the common schools. He began life for himself at twenty-two as a farmer. He was married in 1861 to Mrs. Marv France, daughter of Janies Kirk. They have reared tbeir family on their present beautiful homestead, made so bv their own efforts.' Their children arc: William A., who married Cynthia Hoover; Ambrose U.. whose wife was Ella Finney: Ethel D. O. Mr. McRoberts is a staunch Republican, and was elected Commis- sioncr in 1888 and served six years, succeeding Josiali Rightly. The hoard of which he was a ineinher finished paying off Uie in¬ debtedness contracted by the building of the court house, bought the county farm of 208 acres and improved if . All his public acts were such as to meet the just approval of the public and he retired from the office with the best wishes of a grateful populace. Mr. Me Roberts has been for many years engaged in ministerial work on behalf of the Methodist Episcopal Church. J lis work has been largely that of a supply in this and the adjoining conn-tics, and his sermons and work have been of such character as to mark him as a sincere and earnest Christian worker.

JOSKP 1 I MOORK, County Commissioner-elect, from Wash¬ ington township, is one of the successful fanners of Gibson County and is bold in high esteem among bis neighbors and acquaint¬ ances generally for the many commendable traits of character lie possesses, fie was horn near where he now resides, in the Patoka bottoms. September 6, 1844. lie grew to maturity in that locality, and although lie made the acquaintance with hard work early in life, he managed to get, from the "old log school house," what was then called a common school education. When lie arrived at an age when young men feel that they onglit to make a start for themselves, Mr. Moore set to work raising corn and hogs. The war then came on and lie felt himself impelled from motives of patriotism to do what he could, as a private soldier, to aid in putting down the trouble. He accordingly enlisted in January, 1865, in Company IT, One Hundred and Forty-third Indiana Volunteer fnfantrv, commanded bv Colonel John F. Grille, lie was detailed at Murfreesboro, Tennessee, as orderly for Medical Director George K. Seat, of Ohio, ajid served in this capacity till the day lie was mustered out in October, 1865. Oji his return from tile army Mr. Moore took up farming, which he has continued uninterruptedly to this day. lie owns one hundred and fifteen acres of fine soil and is situated to make farming pay even in hard times. December 13, 1866, Mr. Moore married 1 larrict, a daughter of Jefferson Turpin. She died in 1880. For his second wife Mr. Moore married Mary J. Phillips, whose father, John Phillips, together with his father, Robert Phillips, were pioneers. Here Mr. Moore's children, R. Allen, who married Kate Carter; Clarence, who married Stella liiillips; Charley, whose wife was Lillie Utley. And by the second wife there are: Linnie, Josie, deceased, and Karl. Mr. Moore is a'son of John C. Moore, who came to Gibson County in 1813... He was then a small lad and in care of his father, David J. Moore,who fet¬ tled on the Patoka bottom and died there in 1847, at about sixtytwo years of age. He was a Mexican soldier and also served in the Indian wars of the Northwest. Our subject's mother was Klizahcth Dawson, a daughter of John Dawson, a Virginia settler.

Her children were: Mary, wife of David McMillan; Elizabeth, deceased wife of l». R. Fields; Rel>ecca. deceased wife of L. H. Van Campen; Eliza, wife of Frank Turpin; John Moore; Joseph Moore; Edward Moore; David MootcT; and Ellen, deceased. Mr. Moore is a Democrat and was elected Commissioner in Novem¬ ber, 1896, by a majority of 144 votes and will succeed J. W: Phil¬ lips in August, 1897.