Huntington County, Indiana - The whole text, 1914 (part 6 of 15)

David M. Prilaman was but seven years of age when he accompanied his parents to Huntington county, and in the Polk township district schools he subsequently received his educational training. He grew up on the home farm, assisted his father in its cultivation, and thoroughly familiarized himself with every detail pertaining to its work. At the time of his father's death he inherited a part of the property and purchased the remainder of the original 100 acres from the other heirs, and to this he has since added thirteen acres more. This is one of the really valuable farms of Polk township. Situated on the banks of the Salamonie river, it has rich, fertile soil, which is well drained and produces bumper crops. Mr. Prilaman has devoted the greater part of his attention to farming, but he: has also met with success in the line of cattle raising. His reputation is high as a man of stability, reliability and integrity, and his numerous friends testify to his general popularity.

In November, 1883, Mr. Prilaman was married (first) to Miss Ada Bailey, daughter of Thomas Bailey, of Polk township, and she died in 1894, having been the mother of three children, namely: Bessie, a graduate of the common schools and now the wife of Arlin Bodkin; Jesse L., a graduate of the common schools, who married Ethel Campbell; and Guy M., a graduate of the common schools and the Monument City High school, a carpenter residing at Andrews, who married Amelia Bechtol, Mr. Prilaman was married (second) to Mrs. Flora Bradford, who was born Flora Dawson and married (first) Earl Bradford, now deceased, by whom she has one daughter, Ruby, who is twelve years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Prilaman have no children. They were married in June, 1906.

Mr. Prilaman's fraternal connections are with Golden Rule Lodge, No. 308, Knights of Pythias, at Andrews, Indiana. Politically a republican, he has been active in local and county affairs, and has served efficiently as a member of the Polk township advisory board since the passage of the law creating that office. In all the affairs of life he has ~ been faithful to his obligations, and the general regard in which he is held gives evidence of his high standing in the confidence of his fellowcitizens.

W. H. Souruwoop. Ten miles from Huntington, Indiana, in Polk township, are located the famous Salamonie Valley Stock Farms Nos. 1 and 2, comprising a tract of 233 acres of highly productive farming and pasture land, from which come yearly large shipments of watermelons and muskmelons. The owner of this valuable and well-known property is W. H. Southwood, whose career has been one of steady advancement from humble position and obscurity to substantial success and prominence in the business world. Mr. Southwood is eminently entitled to the proud American title of self-made man, for he has been the architect of his own fortunes, has labored faithfully and uncomplainingly, and has at length erected a structure that rests firmly on integrity and reliability. `

Mr. Southwood has resided in Polk township all of his life, having been born on a farm in this locality, May 19, 1852. He is a son of Joseph and Lydia (Peters) Southwood, natives of Virginia, who came to Huntington county in 1848, and located on a farming property here, residing in this section during the remainder of their lives. They were people of sterling honesty, public-spirited loyalty and kind-hearted sympathy, and were respected and esteemed wherever known. They were in modest financial circumstances, however, and could afford to give their son only an ordinary public school education, although he was carefully reared. Mr. Southwood was an ambitious and industrious lad, anà early began to be self-supporting. Even in his youth he did not unquestioningly accept long-established ideas merely because they had been in force for many years, but was always experimenting with new methods and processes, with the result that he often was able to distance his fellows who kept along in the same old rut. Gradually he became a land owner and began to make experiments in specializing along various lines. Finally he found that Polk township soil, properly cultivated, was capa- -ble of producing an excellent quality of watermelons, and his operations increased and his product came into demand because of its quality and size. He gained the sobriquet of ''The Watermelon Raiser.'' His principal varicties are the '' Monte Cristo'' and ''Tom Watson.'' In addition he yearly grows a large crop of muskmelons, his varieties being the '"Buekbee Ideal'' and '' Perfection Yellow.'' In the management of his affairs Mr. Southwood has shown himself a capable, far-seeing business man, who has the courage of his convictions, and whose judgment is almost invariably correct. His reputation for stalwart integrity has been built up through years of honorable and straightforward dealing, and few men are held in greater confidence by those who have associated with him.

children have been born to this union, of whom two are living at this time: Robert R., who is married and a successful farmer of Polk township; and Ollie R., who is the wife of Rev. Ora Oxley, a minister of the Methodist Episcopal faith. Mr. and Mrs. Southwood are consistent members of the Church of the Brethren and have been liberal supporters of its movements. Politically a republican, Mr. Southwood has not sought office, although he is stanch in his support of his party's candidates and principles and takes a keen and intelligent interest in public affairs that affect the welfare of his community. Essentially a farmer and business man, he has devoted almost his entire attention to the cultivation of his fields, content to be just what he is, an unassuming citizen, representative of the best type of Huntington county citizenship.

Caru A. Virz. Six miles out from the city of Huntington, southeast on the prairie road, is located the pleasant homestead of Carl A. Vitz. Mr. Vitz has a delightful home, a fine farm of seventy-seven and a half acres, and his own industry, combined with the good judgment and thrifty management of his wife, has brought about a degree of prosperity that places him among the substantial citizens, and the name is spoken only with respect and esteem in that section of Huntington county. His position in the community can best be judged by the fact that his fellow citizens have honored him with election to the office of trustee of Union township, and in that capacity he is giving a most excellent administration of the important responsibilities entrusted by law to the township trustees in Indiana. Mr. Vitz is a thorough believer in the principle of public education, uses all his efforts and influence to extend the beneficent activities of the local schools, and has proved, in the judgment of the majority of his fellow citizens, just the man to fill the administrative office of which he is incumbent.

Carl A. Vitz was born in the city of Huntington April 25, 1864, a son of Rev. Peter and Anna M. (Jacob) Vitz. Peter Vitz was born in Germany in October, 1825, was educated in Heidelberg University, and in 1853 came to America. For a number of years he was a minister of the German Reform church and his death occurred in the city of Huntington.

There was a family of ten children, mentioned as follows: John F., a farmer in Union township; Rev. Martin, now an instructor in the Mission House at Sheboygan; J. Otto, a minister at Louisville, Kentucky ; Henry W., a minister at Indianapolis; Carl A.; Martha M., wife _ of Rev. P. S. Kohler, of Sutton, Nebraska; Emma M., wife of Rev. H. B. Robrock, of St. Louis, Missouri; Rev. O. P. Vitz, of Rising Sun, Indiana; Anna L., wife of Ernest Eberhart, of Indianapolis; Rev. Nathan E. Vitz of Defiance, Ohio.

Carl A. Vitz was reared in Huntington until he was six years of age, and the ministerial duties of his father made it necessary for the home to be transferred from place to place, and at these various places of residence he received his education in the local schools. In 1882 Mr. Vitz returned to Huntington, and three years later in 1885 married Miss Anna M. Fowerbaugh. She was born in Huntington county in October, 1865, a daughter of William Fowerbaugh, a pioneer of this county. Her education was acquired in the parochial schools of Huntington. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Vitz located in Union township, where they have lived for upwards of thirty years. They are the parents of three children, namely: Peter W., a graduate of the Union Township high school, and of the State Normal, and now superintendent of the Union Township high school; Edward M., a graduate of the Union Township school, who is a progressive young farmer; Meta M., a graduate of the high school and a teacher in Union township. The family are all active members of the German Reformed church at Huntington, and the son, Edward M., is one of the deacons in that church. In politics Mr. Vitz has long been one of the leaders in local Democracy, and was elected on the Democratic ticket to his present office.

James M. Struarr. Huntington county is noted for its fine farmsteads, and in Union township one of the best of these is the Black Locust Stock Farm, situated' seven and a half miles southeast of Huntington, and two and a half miles northwest of Markle, on the Markle Gravel Road. This is the home of James M. Stuart. Its industry is cattle raising. Mr. Stuart has spent money, patience and labor in laying the foundation of a splendid herd of Holstein cattle. The farm comprises two hundred acres of land, and its acre valuation is set at a high figure, which in itself is evidence of a fine state of improvement. By many years of hard work and able management Mr. Stuart has fitted himself into the industrial and civic life of Huntington county, as one of the successful men.

James M. Stuart was born in the city of Huntington October 8, 1860, a son of Joseph and Louisiana (Smith) Stuart. His grandfather was James M. Stuart, who was born in Scotland and came to the United States, locating in Camden, Ohio. By trade he was a bell maker and blacksmith. Somewhat later he was married in Preble county, Ohio, and then came to Huntington county in 1837. He was one of the very early settlers in the vicinity of Bellville, in Jefferson township. His death occurred at Bellville one year after his settlement. His widow then continued her home there, and reared her family of small children. It was at Bellville that Joseph Stuart grew up, and with a taste and inclination for mechanical work he was chiefly identified with milling during his career. In partnership with James Taylor, he built at Bellville about 1848 a mill which they conducted as partners for a number of years. The partners also constructed the grist mill which is now operated by R. A. Brown, and conducted that enterprise until 1862. In that year Mr. Taylor died and Mr. Stuart then moved to Cass county, Indiana, where he was identified with the milling industry until 1878. Transferring his home and interests to Miami county, he built a mill at Peoria, and was a miller there for five years. Finally returning to the old home at Bellville he bought the mill which he had assisted in establishing many years before, and continued its operation and had his home in that locality until his death. Outside of his immediate business, he participated little in public affairs, but was a devout member of the Christian church. Of his eight children, six are now living, as follows: Martha, wife of Conrad Hummell; James M.; William W., a minister of the Christian church ; Ida, wife of Eli Kellar; Maude, wife of Isaac Zent; Frank, of Warren, Indiana.

James M. Stuart was an infant when the family moved to Cass county, and it was in the common schools of that county that he received his education so far as books were concerned. Under his father he learned the trade of miller, and worked along that line until he concentrated all his time and attention on farming and stock raising. On January 9, 1887, Mr. Stuart married Mary H. Harvey. She was born in Rush county, Indiana, and had an education in the common schools. They are the parents of six children, as follows: Joseph Stuart; Charles; Lewis; Harvey, who is a graduate of the Markle high schools;

Floyd; and Merle. One child died in infancy. The family have active membership in the Methodist Episcopal church at Markle, of which Mr. Stuart is one of the trustees. Fraternally he affiliates with the Markle Lodge, No. 423, of the Knights of Pythias. In politics he is a Democrat.

Jacos VOLLMAR. When in the fall of 1910 the citizens of the second district of Huntington county elected Jacob Vollmar as a member of the county board of commissioners, their choice fell upon a man whose long and prosperous identification with the county and whose success in private affairs thoroughly entitled him to the esteem and confidence of his fellow citizens, and his work in the important office of commissioner has more than justified their choice. Mr. Vollmar came to his present office fully qualified to handle its affairs, and has brought to his work the business sagacity so necessary in directing the fiscal matters of a prosperous, growing community.

Jacob Vollmar was born on a farm in section four in Dallas township, of Huntington county, October 1, 1864. His parents were Peter and Wilhelmina (Felton) Vollmar. Both parents were born and reared and educated in Germany and each came to the United States with his and her respective parents. The Vollmar family landed in New York March, 1854. The Feltons arrived at New Orleans in April of the same year, came by boat up the Mississippi to St. Louis, later located in Will county, Illinois, where after the death of the father the widowed mother took her children to Huntington county. The Vollmars first located in Starke county, Ohio, and in 1860, settled in Huntington county, where the two young people, Peter and Wilhelmina, first met and were soon afterwards married. To their union were born twelve children, seven boys and five girls, namely: Jacob, Peter, Mary, Minnie, John, Daniel, Carrie, Sarah, Louis, Christian, Elizabeth, and Carl. The last named lives in Michigan, but all the others have their homes in Indiana.

Jacob Vollmar was reared in Dallas township, grew up in the wholesome environment of the country, and until he was fourteen years of age attended the local schools, being trained both in the German and English languages. As a boy he became familiar with the duties of the farm, and early adopted that as his permanent vocation. At the age of twenty-one his father employed him at regular wages, and in that way he lived at home until he was twenty-five.

On August 15, 1889, occurred the marriage of Jacob Vollmar and Stella N. Settlemyre, of Jackson township. She was born and reared in Jackson township, and like her husband had a district schooling. After their marriage they lived on a Jackson township farm for about four years, and then Mr. Vollmar bought his present place of one hundred and twenty acres in sections twenty-five and twenty-six in Union township. There for more than twenty years he has prosperously combined the work of general farming and stock raising, and as a representative of the thrifty and hardy German element in Aronen county has succeeded much above the ordinary.

To his marriage have been born five children, as follows:- Lena, a graduate of the Markle high school, and the wife of Daniel Heaston; Julia, a graduate of the Markle high school, and specially talented in music, in which she has been well trained and is now engaged in teaching that art; Alma, a graduate of the country schools, and now a student in the Markle high school; Bertha, also in the Markle high school; and Russell J., who was born in 1902, and now attends the common schools. All the family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Markle, of which Mr. Vollmar is a trustee. Fraternally he is affiliated with Markle Lodge, No. 423, Knights of Pythias, and his political allegiance has always been given to the Democracy. Mr. Vollmar has not only served in his present office of county commissioner, but wag at one time honored with election as member of the township advisory board.

JoHN D. Minter. From the ranks of the best citizens are chosen under the provisions of Indiana laws the officials known as township trustees. In many respects this office is the most important in the entire county scheme of governments, and the men who are entrusted with the duties and responsibilities of that office are of the substantial class whose ability has been thoroughly tested and who enjoy the complete confidence of their neighbors. Among the former trustees of Union township, John D. Miller represented in the highest degree the qualities of good citizen. ship and of business efficiency. Mr. Miller has spent practically all his life in Huntington county, and is the owner of a fine farm of seventysix acres, three and a half miles northwest of Markle. He is a quiet, unassuming man, goes about his work without much noise, but with an efficiency which has brought him into the number of thoroughly prosperous Huntington county citizens.

John D. Miller, through both his parents, represents substantial German stock. He was born in Starke county, Ohio, August 12, 1857, a son of David and Sarah (Arnold) Miller. Both parents were likewise natives of Starke county, and were reared and married in that state. In 1857, a few weeks after John was born, the parents moved from Ohio and found a home in Huntington county in October of that year. Their location was in Union township, and they lived there until death. Of the eight children only two are living at the present time, the sister of John D. Miller being Clara, wife of George Messler, of Nebraska.

John D. Miller grew up on the old home farm in Union township, and as a boy was privileged to attend the country schools about three months each year. All his schooling was obtained at the Number Hight District school in Union township. With a fair equipment in the line of education he started to work for his father and lived on the farm until he was twenty-one. He then began as a renter, and gradually accumulated the capital which gave him an independent position. Mr. Miller for a number of years has been proprietor of the Lone Oak Farm, and employs his acres for the production of the general crops, and also for consider. able stock raising.

ter of Samuel and Mary Brubaker, who came from Perry county, Ohio, and were among the early settlers of Rock Creek 'township i in Huntington county. Mrs. Miller died December 5, 1900, leaving' four children, as follows: Bessie, the wife of Hugh D o benetat; Gusta, who died February 2, 1901; Gale, who died at the age of seventeen months; and Rudy, who was born August 5, 1899. On December 14, 1902, Mr. Miller married Ida A. Keplinger, who was born in Huntington county. Mr. Miller is a Democrat in politics, and his service as trustee of Union township was from 1900 to 1905.

Grorce W. Sovurers. Among the local industries of Huntington, probably none has gained greater fame over the country than the stables of George W. Souers & Sons, importers and breeders of Percheron, Belgian and Coach horses. These stables are located in the city of Huntington, at 601-949 West Matilda street. No finer horses of their kind can be found in the world than those imported or bred through the Souers stables at Huntington. Mr. Souers is an expert in the care and handling of horses, and has been in the business practically all his life, and has made his skill and judgment the basis of a really great and growing business which has been not least among the factors that gives Huntington a reputation in the outside world.

The Souers family were among the first aee of Rock Creek township, in Huntington county, where George W. Souers was born September 15, 1864. His parents were Joseph R. and Mary (Ryan) Souers, and his father was a farmer and stockman, and at one time a well known breeder of shorthorn cattle. The grandfather was a native of Pennsylvania, and the great-grandfather was born in Germany, settling in Pennsylvania, and afterward living in Ohio and Indiana.

George W. Souers secured an excellent education, and his thorough schooling, combined with his natural adaptability to his present work, has enabled him to excel and reach a position of foremost importance in his special line of activity. The country schools supplied his first advantages, and afterward he was for four years a student in the National Normal University at Lebanon, Ohio. On leaving school he returned home, and for several years raised and handled horses for light harness purposes. Later his áttention was given to draft horses, and with the accumulation of experience and capital his enterprise broadened to a field of international scope. Mr. Souers' reputation as a horseman is almost as well known abroad as in this country. For years he has made purchases of Percheron and Belgian horses and also Coach horses in the best stables of Germany, Belgium and France. No expense or care has been spared in the importation of these animals. The shipments were made in the best and fastest live stock vessels, and at times they have been brought across the ocean on the finest passenger steamers, being shipped from the ports of Antwerp and London, the usual shipment being from one hundred to one hundred and twenty- -five head, and on arriving in New York City, they were brought by express to the Souers stables in Huntington. The stables are fitted with every accommodation

The Souers horse barns perhaps are the finest in America, and are located in the corporate limits of Huntington. The main structure is three stories in height, with a tile roof, and ground dimensions of sixty by one hundred and fifty feet. The stalls and floors are of reinforced concrete construction, and sanitation is almost as perfect in this barn as in a home. The prevalent colors of the horses are black, roan, grey, bay and chestnut. Mr. Souers has for a number of years employed an expert to care for his horses. At times when it has been desired to fatten the animals, systematic feeding has brought an increase in weight of one hundred pounds per week. They have been exhibited at International and State Fairs and have competed favorably with the best imported in the country.

Mr. Souers is the possessor of valuable real estate, and several farms in Huntington county. He is an all around horseman, devoting his thoughts and capital to that line of business until he has become thoroughly versed in every department belonging to the purchase and sale of his noted horses.

On September 24, 1884, Mr. Souers married Miss Ida King, daughter of Samuel King, a native of Huntington county and a prominent farmer of the county. They are the parents of two sons Who are associated with their father in business. Carl K., now does much of the purchasing abroad, and began making trips to the old country in his nineteenth year. While a young man, he is old in the business, and each year makes from two to three trips to foreign stables. Glenn, the other son, is at home assisting in the management of the stables. He is also a good judge of horses and a very capable young business man.

Mr. Souers is affiliated with the Knights of Pythias and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He is a member of the board of trustees of the Methodist Episcopal church and a member of the building committee having in charge the erection of the new church building. His home is a fine residence'on North Jefferson street, one of the best in Huntington.

WILLIAM J. TRIBOLET. Of the able young men who are going about in the quiet but effective performance of their duties as citizens and home makers, Mr. Tribolet has a special place in Union township. For some years he was identified with Drain Tile manufacture, but is now proprietor of an excellent eighty-acre farm. His place is in Union township, being the east half of the northeast quarter of section twenty-five. His home is on the rural free delivery Route No. 3 out of Markle, and the farm lies two miles north and a half a mile west of Markle, on the Prairie Road. It is in a state of excellent improvement, and Mr. Tribolet has shown himself to be not only a progressive farmer, but a man of action in the community.

Germany, coming to the United States when twenty-three years of age, and locating at Bluffton, Indiana. A blacksmith by trade he followed that vocation. which he had learned by a thorough apprenticeship in his native land. It was in Bluffton that he married Miss Sarge, who was a native of Pennsylvania. After getting a start, the father established a shop of his own at Rifetown, later at Bivens Corners, and finally went south and died at Lawrenceburg, Tennessee. The widow is still living. They were the parents of six children, mentioned as follows: John Tribolet; Rosa, wife of Ben Robrock of Union township; William J.; Samuel F.; Charles, of Rock Creek township; and Clara, wife of Henry Shoeff of Union township.

Mr. William J. Tribolet was reared in Wells and Huntington counties, and his book learning was supplied by the common schools. A number of years ago he became interested in the manufacturing of drain tile in Union township, and continued that for ten years, and thus accumulated the surplus which in November, 1912, he invested in his present homestead.

On April 10, 1905, Mr. Tribolet married Mina Tumbleson of Union township, a daughter of Willard Tumbleson. They have one child, Daley E., aged five years. Mr. Tribolet is a Democrat in politics.

IsHAM Swain. Five miles northeast of Huntington, on the Hasler Gravel Road in Union township, is the Leghorn Poultry Farm, the proprietor of which is Isham Swain, whose residence in Huntington county has been continuous for more than sixty years, who is a veteran of the Civil war, and whose career since then has been one of quiet prosperity -and honorable relations with his community. Mr. Swain has more than a local reputation as a breeder and grower of fine poultry, especially of the Leghorn breed. He has all the facilities for successful poultry farming, and his experience has enabled him to make a steady profit out of an industry in which the failures are probably more conspicuous than the successes. His farm comprises forty acres of land.

Isham Swain was born in Preble county, Ohio, September 14, 1847, a son of John L. and Nancy (Waters) Swain. His father was a native of Pennsylvania, and his mother of Kentucky, they were married in Ohio, and coming to Indiana in 1850 located in Clear Creek township of Huntington county, from which locality in 1854 they moved into Union township, with which this family has been identified for nearly sixty years. There were thirteen children in the family, and four are living in 1913, as follows: Hezekiah, whose home is in Huntington: Stephen, of Union township ; and Nancy, the widow of Matthew Waters, of Huntington.

Isham Swain attended public schools in Union township, where he located when about seven years old. It was his fortune to be one of the boy defenders of the Union, during the dark days of the Civil war. The war had been in progress several months, when he passed his fourteenth birthday, and two years later, in August, 1863, he responded to the call for volunteers and enlisted in Company D, of the One Hundred and Thirtieth Indiana Infantry, remaining with that regiment until near the close of the war. His service was with the army of Tennessee under General Thomas, and he took part in the Atlanta campaign. He fought in the battle of Nashville on December 15, 1864, one of the greatest battles in the Mississippi Valley, and there he was shot in the mouth and disabled for further service. After leaving the hospital he received his honorable discharge, and came home. There were altogether five members of the Swain family in the Civil war. On returning to Huntington county, Isham W. Swain took up the serious. responsibilities of civil life, and worked to prepare a home for himself. i

In 1872 he married Mary E. Bristo, who was born in Huntington. They are the parents of two children: Burtis A., who is married and lives in Huntington; and Gladys, wife of Edward Thorn, of Huntington. The family worship in the Evangelical church, and Mr. Swain keeps up his old associations with his comrades by membership in the James R. Slack Post, G. A. R. In politics he has been a Republican since the days of the war, and has frequently interested himself in behalf of local candidates and has been a factor in the party councils.

OrLAND E. JoHNnson. Among those farms which give a distinctive character to Union township, one of the most noteworthy is '"' Happy Home. Farm," the proprietor of which is Orland E. Johnson, a man of quiet and capable citizenship, who has followed farming as his vocation during a long and active life. His farm is located on the Fort Wayne and Huntington Stone Road, four and a half miles northeast of Huntington. Its sixty-eight acres are under complete cultivation, and all the improvements are first class.

Orland E. Johnson was born in Fountain county, reais December 7, 1846, a son of Samuel B. and Sarah (Reed) Johnson. Both parents were natives of Warren county, Ohio, where they grew up and were married and about 1839 made settlement in Fountain county, Indiana, among the pioneers. The father followed his trade as a cooper for many years though he combined that o¢cupation with farming.

Orland E. Johnson spent all his early life on a farm, and while growing up had the advantages of the local school. In 1860, when he was fourteen years old, the family moved to Benton county, in this state. His school work was finished when he was about eighteen years old, and after that he lived at home and assisted in the cultivation of the old homestead until he was twenty-six.

On March 22, 1873, occurred his marriage to Isabelle, daughter of H. H. and Elizabeth (Owens) Scott. After more than twenty-seven years of married companionship she died on June 10, 1900. In 1902 Mr. Johnson bought his present farm in Union township of Huntington county. In February, 1906, he married Mrs. Barbara Purviance, widow of Rev. Charles Purviance, and representing one of the pioneer families of Huntington county. Mrs. Johnson was reared in Union township and got her education from the local schools. Her maiden name was Barbara Rice, a daughter of Nicholas and Hannah (Coy) Rice. Her father was born in Wayne county, Indiana, May 11, 1826, and moved to Huntington county in October, 1850. Hannah Coy, his wife, was born in West Moreland county, Pennsylvania, and was a girl when her family made the long overland journey by ox teams and wagons from Pennsylvania to Ohio, and from there to Indiana.

Mr. and Mrs. Johnson are faithful members and attendants of the United Brethren Church of Zion, and he is superintendent of the Sunday school. In polities Mr. Johnson supports the Republican cause, and for ten years was township assessor of Gilboa township in Benton county, and also served as county assessor for two years. Mr. Johnson is a man whose career has been spent without conspicuous incident or abnormal event, has lived uprightly before all men, and has well won his prosperity and his high standing in the community.

ALBERT Rice. Huntington county has its many beautiful and valuable farm estates, some of which have been under one name since the pioneer era of this region. One of these older places is the Rice farm, a well improved and beautiful place of sixty acres, in Union township, and known throughout that section of the county as Hillside Farm. Its owner, Mr. Rice, has lived there practically all his life, has shown himself possessed of those qualities which in modern agriculture count for steady success, and an influential position in the community.

Albert Rice was born in Union township, July 23, 1863, a son of Solomon and Retta (Hibbard) Rice. His father, who was born in Wayne county, Ohio, came to Huntington county, Indiana, in 1848 There were many pioneer settlers in the county at that time, but conditions were practically new, and when he located in Union township in that year he had few neighbors and had to take up the task which confronted all the rest of the first settlers. Solomon Rice was fourteen years old when he came to Huntington county, having been born in 1834, and is still living in Union township, now at the venerable age of almost eighty years. His wife died thirty-eight years ago.

Albert Rice, who was the only son of his parents, grew up on the old farm, and as a boy had the advantages of the local school. His school attendance continued until he was about seventeen years old, and he then made farming the choice of his permanent vocation, and through nearly all his active career has been identified with the old homestead. Mr. Rice married Dona Shinaberry, of Ohio, who came to Huntington county with her parents, when she was a girl. To their marriage have been born seven children, six of whom are living: Carl, who is married and lives on a farm in Jackson township; Frank, who is married and is in Union township; Ross, who lives at home, and helps run the farm; Clarence, who is a student in the local schools ; Ruth, who attends the high school; and Mary, also a school girl. Katie died when three years old. Mr. Rice takes an active part in fraternal work, especially in Odd Fellowship, having membership in La Fontaine Lodge No. 42, I. O. O. F. and also the Encampment No. 82 at Huntington. In politics a Democrat, he has seldom manifested much interest in party affairs, though he is a Vol. TI - 11

Tutty Anson. Union township is noted for its industries and able farmers, and public spirited citizens. One of these is Tully Anson, who represents one of the pioneer families in this section, and who is proprietor of the Ranacross Farm, located four and a half miles northeast of Huntington, on the Fort Wayne Traction line, and in a very eligible position, for all the demands of modern agriculture. Mr. Anson is a man who has never been content to follow without question in the beaten paths traveled by his predecessors, and has always been extremely progressive, ready to adopt improvements which have been thoroughly tested, and has also contributed out of his own original mind to the better welfare of agriculture and its followers. Thousands of farmers in Indiana and elsewhere cultivate what is known as the Anson Dent and the Anson White Corn, a variety of maize, which is the result of Mr. Anson's careful selection and cross fertilization. Mr. Anson has a very handsome farmstead, and its situation on the traction line gives him practical city facilities. .

Tully Anson was born in Union township, September 9, 1868, a son of John J. and Susan (Elkins) Anson. Both the father and grandfather, Samuel Anson, were natives of Clinton' county, Ohio, where John J. was born, February 9, 1825, and probably of English descent. Susan Elkins was a native of Virginia. John Anson was married in Ohio, and in 1844 came into Huntington county as one of the early settlers, locating in Union township. Twelve years were spent by him in Huntington City, but with that exception he lived in Union township, with his wife, until their long and industrious years came to a close. Their journey from Clinton county, Ohio, was made in a wagon, and not for some years were any railroads built in this section of the state, and the Ansons are among the people who had their full share in clearing away the forests and establishing homes in the wilderness. John J. Anson was a hunter and fisherman, possessed a very rugged physique, and was of active, vigorous temperament, and was known in the community as a man who never failed in any undertaking. He cleared up a large amount of land, was noted as a rail splitter in the early days, and for a number of years was associated with the late John Roche. John Anson at one time kept the only store at Union Station, in his township. His acreage as a farmer usually ran about two hundred, and his possessions and activities made him one of the prominent men in Union township. Besides being a first-class business man, and successful from a material point of view, he was active in religion and a liberal contributor to the Union church. A Jackson Democrat in polities, he served in the office of justice of the peace during his residence in the city of Huntington. There were seven children, and four are still living: Samuel, a retired farmer at Warsaw, Indiana; Tennie, wife of I. E. Ward, of Union township; and Addie, wife of James Carl, of Columbus, Indiana. Tully Anson was reared on the home farm and at the proper age entered the Huntington public schools. After graduating from the high school in 1885, he was first employed as agent, and storekeeper at Mardenis, and from that gradually got into farming as a permanent vocation. Mr. Anson married Miss Nettie Hoster, a daughter of John and Mary (Harter) Hoster. Mrs. Anson was educated in the district schools. Their four living children are: Charles E., who graduated from the Union township high school, studied in Angola Tri-State College, and now has charge of the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades in the Union township schools; Clara, a graduate of the high school, and the wife of Ernest Beaver; Mary and Allen, both at home. Mrs. Anson is a member of the Mount Zion United Brethren church, and the family attend Zion church. Mr. Anson has long taken an active part in democratic politics, and also in public affairs, from the standpoint of good government, and from 1904 to 1908 served as trustee of Union township.

Henry G. Minter. Representing that stanch German-American stock which has done so much in the material development of the middle west, Henry G. Miller has lived for thirty-five years in Huntington county, has prospered in his vocation as a farmer, has a fine farm estate in Union township of 160 acres, and is regarded as one of the substantial men both in general prosperity and in his influence as a citizen and kindly neighbér.

Henry G. Miller was born in Hocking county, Ohio, November 2, 1860, a son of John P. and Christina (Finkie) Miller. His father, who was a native of Germany, came when eight years of age with his parents to the United States, first locating in Virginia, and later in Ohio. About 1877, he moved from Ohio, and found a permanent home in Union township of Huntington county, where he spent the remaining days of his life. There were six children in the family, as follows: Henry G.; Mary, wife of Cephus Hahn, of Michigan; William, of Union township ; Lizzie, wife of David Chenoweth of Jackson township; John P. of Dallas township; and George E. of Polk township.

Henry G. Miller was about eighteen years old when he came to Huntington county, had received a substantial education in the schools of Ohio, and became an active and valuable assistant of his father in clearing up the land and improving a farm in Huntington county. He lived at home until he was twenty-four years of age. On the 21st of October, 1893, he married Miss Mary Elizabeth Lahr, daughter of Jacon Lahr. Mrs. Miller was born in Polk township, Huntington county, October 2, 1866, and grew up and received her education in this vicinity. They have one child, Arta June, born June 1, 1903. Mr. Miller in early life learned the stone mason's trade, and for some years was a contractor in Huntington, getting a good start in that business. He owned ninety-seven acres of the old homestead in Ohio, and after selling that bought his present farm in January, 1899, and has since owned and occupied that present estate in Union township. His farm comprises one hundred and sixty acres, all the land is well improved and cultivated, and his neigh- bors regard him as the ablest cultivator of the soil and one of the most successful men in his community. In politics Mr. Miller is a democrat.

Simeon SLATER. For half a century Simeon Slater has been a substantial farmer and respected citizen of Huntington county. In Union township his estate is readily identified as the Flat Creek Farm, a country place of forty-three acres, with unusual attractions in both surroundings and equipment for business. Mr. Slater has made a success in life, stands high in the esteem of his neighbors, and is a man who has always depended upon industry and good judgment and fair dealing for his advancement. a

Simeon Slater was born in Warren county, Ohio, May 28, 1845, a son of Joseph and Mary A. (Thompson) Slater. Grandfather Wiliam Slater was a native of England and came to the United States many years ago. Joseph Slater was married in Warren county, Ohio, and in 1853 brought his family to Huntington county, locating in. Union township, but later lived on a farm in Huntington township. Both parents died in the city of Huntington. There were twelve children, eight of whom are yet living, as follows: Mary, wife of Jacob Moore of Springfield, Ohio; Milton, a barber in Detroit, Michigan; Oscar, of Lac du Flambeau, Wisconsin; Margaret, wife of John Langle; Elizabeth, wife of Alf Wilkerson, of Huntington; and Cal, a barber in Warren, Indiana.

Simeon Slater was reared on a farm in Ohio, attended the district schools, was about eighteen years old when he came with the family to Huntington county. On January 14, 1869, occurred the marriage of Simeon Slater and Miss Anna Hill, who was born in Warren county, Ohio, May 29, 1848, and when a child was brought to Huntington county. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Slater located in Union township, and there have acquired a substantial home, have reared their children and given them the best of advantages, and are now enjoying the fruits of a well spent life of industry and thrifty management. Their six children are mentioned as follows: Leota, wife of George Chaney; Elmer, who married Mary Chaney; James A., who married Maude Ward; Edward, whose wife was Lettie Mitchell; Ora, who married Helen Weaver; and Merl, wife of William Slagel. Mr. Slater is affiliated with Roanoke Lodge No. 19, A. F. & A. M., of which he is a past master. In politics he is a democrat.

Linzy Ropers. For thirty-five years the name of Linzy Roberts in Jefferson township has been synonymous with high class agricultural work and for the faithful performance of every duty that devolves upon him in this connection. A native son of Huntington township, he has grown up with the section, has interestedly watched its development into one of the richest agricultural localities of the state, has contributed materially to its advancement through his activities, and with its prosperity has himself prospered. Mr. Roberts was born on a farm in section 23, Jefferson township, Huntington county, Indiana, June 27, 1857, and is a son of Samuel and Sofia (Wiley) Roberts.

The parents of Mr. Roberts were born in Ohio, and there reared, educated and married. Shortly after their union they decided to settle in Huntington county, and accordingly made their way here in a wagon, the father entering eighty acres of land, the west one-half of the southeast one-quarter of section 23, in Jefferson township. This property was located in the heavy timber, and the father erected a small log cabin in a clearing and started to prepare his fields for cultivation. A strong man physically, he labored energetically and untiringly, and was able to make much progress in his work. Later he purchased an additional eighty acres across the road, and there continued to reside during the remainder of his life. In the summer of 1884 the log cabin was replaced by a brick house, the brick for which was made by Linzy Roberts and his brother-in-law. Samuel Roberts was a man of intelligence and public-spirit, and in his death, which occurred in May, 1897, his com- ` munity lost a citizen who had done much to advance its interests. The mother survived until' January, 1900. Mr. Roberts. was a democrat in his political views, but was a quiet and unassuming man, and did not court public favors. He and his wife were the parents of seven children, as follows: Sarah L., who is the wife of George S. Morris; Nancy, who passed away when unmarried in young womanhood; Verilla, who is the wife of John A. Andrews; William W., a resident of Salamonie township; George I., who lives in Jefferson township; Linzy, of this review ; and Jasper C.

The education of Linzy Roberts was secured in the district schools of Jefferson township, although his attendance was usually limited to the times when there were no tasks to be performed upon the home farm. He was industrious and ambitious, made the most of his opportunities, learned thoroughly the business of farming, and continued under the family roof until reaching the age of twenty-seven years. He was married to Atlanta Denton, December 17, 1884, she having been born in Jefferson township, January 16, 1866, and following their union they settled on a tract of sixty acres of land located near Mr. Roberts' present farm. While there he also engaged in operating a sawmill, and subsequently invested his earnings in forty acres of land. Still later he bought his present property, a tract of eighty acres, being the east onehalf of the southeast one-quarter, section 34, three miles west and two miles south of Warren. This land is cleared and ditched, equipped with modern improvements, and has an excellent set of substantial buildings. As a farmer and stock raiser Mr. Roberts exercises sterling ability in the management of his affairs and has thereby acquired a competence that enables him to provide a good living for himself and family. He is known to be reliable in all trade transactions so that he has won the confidence and good will of his fellow men, while his acquaintance is extensive and his friends numerous.

Mr. and Mrs. Roberts have been the parents of ten children, of whom six are living at this time: Zeffa, who is the wife of Elmer Spaulding and lives in Grant county, Indiana; Sarah, who is the wife of Delmon Lozier; Celia, who is the wife of Howard Brown and lives in

Jefferson township; James, a graduate of the county schools and now a student in Van Buren High school; Ruth, a graduate of the common schools; and Master Carl, the baby, eight years of age and a bright pupil of the local district school. Mr. and Mrs. Roberts and their children are consistent members of the United Brethren church. He has always been a strong adherent of the cause of temperance, is a -prohibitionist in political matters, and at the present time is serving efficiently in the capacity of supervisor for the south one-half of Jefferson township.

Joun W. Minton. The relationship of John W. Minton to Huntington county has been of a broad and varied and uniformly successful character. Mr. Minton for many years was a man who had pleasant associations with the people of Lancaster township and built up a reputation which still follows him for thorough integrity, fair and square dealing, and a judgment which led him to continued advancement in prosperity. Mr. Minton is now best known as a farmer and stock raiser in Jefferson township. He has demonstrated a peculiar fitness for farming and stock enterprise, and it was his dealings as a poultry merchant in earlier years which proved the principal source of his present capital and successful reputation in business affairs.

John W. Minton is a native of Lancaster, township, Huntington county, where he was born on October 14, 1868, a son of Henry S. and Mary C. (Winebrenner) Minton. His father after a long and worthy career as an agriculturist and good citizen passed away in 1911, and the mother is still living. They were the parents of six children, of whom John W. is first to be mentioned, and the others are as follows: Frank, of Huntington; Elmer, of Lancaster township; Nathan, of Lancaster township; Lizzie, wife of Charles Buzzard; and Tillie, wife of Wilber MecCrum.

It was on a farm in Lancaster township that John W. Minton had his first associations with the world, and grew up with other boys in that locality during the seventies and early eighties. A district school supplied him with the fundamentals of book knowledge, and when he left school at the age of eighteen he was fairly well equipped for suecessful performance on his own account. By close attention to business and guided always by principles of honesty, he has gone from one success to another and there are few people in that part of Huntington county who do not recognize his name as one associated with thorough ability and well-won prosperity.

Mr. Minton married Stella Zell of Lancaster township. To their union was born one son, Morris, on March 10, 1905. Mrs. Minton passed away on May 17, 1912. On June 14, 1914, he married Gertrude (Canady) Slagel. She was born in Lancaster township.

It was in 1893 that Mr. Minton first engaged in a mercantile business at Lancaster and was actively identified with merchandise in that vicinity for twenty years, until 1913, when he sold out to excellent advantage and has since devoted all his time to stock raising and farming. A young man of twenty-five, he began business as a merchant with very little actual capital, but with the confidence of his creditors, and not only met his bills promptly as they came due, but was continually increasing the scope of his enterprise, so that when he sold out his stock invoiced at six thousand dollars. In 1911 Mr. Minton had bought the old Wire farm in Jefferson township. That homestead comprises 102.32 acres, and its improvements represent some of the highest class in that part of Huntington county. It is as a breeder and raiser of high grade hogs that Mr. Minton is making his chief success, and he sends them to the market every year by the carload. Among other interests which identity him prominently with the community he is a stockholder in the Huntington Trust Company. As already stated, it was in the handling of poultry along with his other business that he made most of his capital while a merchant, and his profits in that connection are invested in his farm and other holdings. His political affiliation has always been with the republican party, but in the campaign of 1912 he supported the new progressive party.

Warm H. Cook. A fine representative, not only of the prosperous and progressive agriculturists of Jefferson township, Huntington county, but of the native born citizens of that place, William H. Cook is eminently worthy of honorable mention in a work of this character. A son of Nathan Cook, he was born, October 31, 1863, on a farm lying in section nine, Jefferson township, his birthplace being situated five miles west, and two miles north, of Warren.

Nathan Cook was born in Wayne county, Indiana, and there grew to manhood. In 1849 he came to Huntington county, and having purchased land in Jefferson township there carried on farming until his death. He married, in Ohio, Martha Mills, who was born in Hamilton county, Indiana, and died on the home farm, in Huntington county, Indiana. They reared two children, as follows: William H., the special subject of this sketch; and Anna, wife of Oliver P. Miles.

A life-long resident of Jefferson township, William H. Cook, obtained his education in the district schools, attending regularly all of the terms until attaining his majority. Choosing for his life work the free and independent occupation of a farmer, he first rented land, and after his marriage settled on the Cook homestead, where he has since resided. Mr. Cook has a good farm of seventy-one acres, and in its management is in every respect up-to-date, using the most modern machinery and appliances in his work. He is a natural mechanic, handy with tools of all description, and in addition to owning and operating two sawmills has three threshing outfits, and an automobile, it being a five-passenger Maxwell. Mr. Cook also has an Emerson engine gang plow, the first one introduced into the township. It has four 16-inch bottoms, capable of plowing ten acres in ten hours, and he is going to put on two more bottoms, which will enable him to plow from ten to fifteen acres per day.

Thomas and Anna (Keener) Miles. Seven children have blessed their union, namely: Everett, Ernest, Iva, Glenn, May, Ralph, and Goldie. In politics Mr. Cook is a sound republican, and in addition to having served five years as supervisor has been an important factor in the movement to facilitate the making of good roads throughout this section of the state.

Ira B. Porrs. To the earnest and helpful activities of such men as Ira B. Potts, Huntington county owes its present flourishing condition, its agricultural supremacy and its prosperity in trade and commercial circles. Those whose only business lies in looking after personal gains do little or nothing to advance their communities; the men who have the welfare of their section at heart so conduct their operations as to build up and develop the resources of the country, thus opening up a wider field for the prosecution of industries and undertakings which will bring out and further the best interests of the localities in which their labors are centered. Mr. Potts is a man of versatile talents, as evidenced by the fact that after he had gained honors and position in professional circles, as an educator, he entered the real estate and insurance field, and today is equally well known in this line, being secretary of the prominent firm of Allen-Potts Realty Company, of Huntington.

Mr. Potts is a native son of Huntington county, Indiana, having been born on his father's farm in Lancaster township, June 16, 1883, a son of Anderson and Charlotte (Fisher) Potts. The family is an old and honored one of this county, having been founded here by Jacob Potts, a pioneer, who was for many years engaged in agricultural pursuits, and who served as a Union soldier in the Civil war, participating in several notable battles. Anderson Potts was born in Huntington county, received an ordinary education in the public schools, and early adopted the calling of farmer, which he has followed throughout his life in Lancaster township. As a result of an industrious and well-spent life, he is now numbered among the prosperous farmers and stock raisers of his community, owning an excellent property and carrying on extensive operations. Mrs. Potts, who also survives, was born in Huntington county, daughter of Harvey Fisher, a pioneer of Scotch-Irish descent.

Ira B. Potts acquired his education at the high school at Majenica, from which he was graduated. For two years he taught in the country schools in Lancaster township, but, realizing the need for further training, entered Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, Indiana, from which he was graduated in 1904, and meanwhile. had spent a year in Indiana University. In that year he was called to the principalship of the Majenica high school, a capacity in which he served through the greater part of 1905, and then became principal of the Clear Creek high school. He was serving as such in 1906 when he was elected county superintendent of the Huntington county schools to fill out the unexpired term of H. D. Shideler, who died while in office. At the expiration of that term he was elected superintendent, in 1907, and held that office for a term of four years. In 1911, retiring from the profession of teaching, he formed a partnership with E. E. Allen and D. A. Purviance in the real estate and insurance business, the firm being incorporated in March of that year as Allen-Potts Realty Company, with a capital stock of ten thousand dollars, and the following officers: E. E. Allen, president; I. B. Potts, secretary; and D. A. Purviance, vice president. An excellent and farreaching business has been developed, this being devoted to the handling of city and farm property all over Huntington county, and the selling of insurance of all kinds. Although practically a newcomer in his present line of endeavor, Mr. Potts has become recognized as a stable figure in Huntington's business world. He maintains an unassailable reputation in realty circles and his energy and enterprise constitute the salient features of the success which has come to him. He was one of the prin cipal organizers of the Commercial Club of Huntington, is in thorough sympathy with its purposes and is now serving as a member of its board of directors. In politics he is a Republican, but his principal activities in public affairs are confined to supporting his friends. He is a member of the official board of the Central Christian church, and is especially interested' in Sunday School affairs, being superintendent of the teachers' training work in the county. He is president of the Northern Indiana Association of Northwestern Insurance Agents.

In 1907 Mr. Potts was united in marriage with Miss Dessie Sloan, daughter of C. O. and Julia (McClurg) Sloan, and to this union there have been born two children, namely: Wilma J. and Max S.

CLYDE THompson. A young man of much promise, talented and cultured, Clyde Thompson, of Jefferson township, has gained an excellent reputation not only as a successful farmer, but for his efficient work as a teacher in the public schools of Huntington county. He was born, March 22, 1889, in Van Buren township, Grant county, Indiana, being the oldest of the family of three children belonging to J. A. and Jeannette (Banter) Thompson, now residents of Jefferson township.

Being taken by his parents to Jackson township, Wells county, Indiana, when two years old, Clyde Thompson lived there until ten years. of age, when the family removed to Jefferson township, Huntington county, where he continued his studies in the common schools. Subsequently entering the Lancaster township high school, Mr. Thompson was there graduated with the class of 1908. Ambitious to further advance his education he attended the Marion Normal College two terms, and Perdue University at Lafayette, Indiana, one term. In 1908 Mr. Thompson began his professional career as a teacher, and has since taught in districts number 1, 2 and 5, and has met with eminent success as an educator, winning the respect and regard of his pupils, and the good will of the parents. He is well educated, and holds a twoyear certificate, or county license good for that length of time.

Mr. Thompson married, August 15, 1911, Ethyl E. Reemer, who was born and educated in Huntington county, Indiana. They have one child, Leslie Neil Thompson, born on the 13th of July, 1914. Politically Mr. Thompson is identified with the republican party.

Jacop L. Nerr. There are many ways in which Jacob L. Neff stands closely related withthe life and activities of Huntington county. Since 1908 he has been known as trustee of Jefferson township, and is probably known by name at least to every person in that civic community. Mr. Neff is a man who has been successful in his private affairs, has performed with honesty and competence every public trust given him, and is a citizen whose usefulness to the community increases every year. He long since won prosperity as a farmer, and is the owner of a nice homestead of ninety-seven acres in Section 13 of Jefferson township.

Jacob L. Neff was born in Salamonie township of Huntington county June 24, 1856, a son of John and Martha (McFarren) Neff. His father was from Virginia and his mother from Pennsylvania, and each went with their respective families into Ohio, where they met and married, and from there moved to Wells county, Indiana, establishing a home in Jackson township, and subsequently settling in Salamonie township of Huntington county. The father finally returned to Jackson township in Wells county, and spent the rest of his life there. The mother is still living, and has spent several years in the home of her daughter, Mrs. Emanuel Hart. Of the twelve children seven are living in 1914: Sarah, the wife of A. J. Foust; Martha, widow of Samuel Jackson of Warren; Rachel, wife of Daniel Carpenter of Jackson township in Wells county ; Anna, wife of A. J. Stephens of Jackson township in Wells county; Adam, who is deceased; Wilson, of Illinois; John, of Warren; Hannah, wife of E. M. Hart of Salamonie township; Jacob L.; and Jonathan, who married Mary Unrue of Jackson township.

While Jacob L. Neff was born in Salamonie township of Huntington county, he spent most of his early youth in Wells county, and attended the schools of both counties. His early training acquired through the district schools, and his experiences were only slightly different from those of other boys in his day and generation. When the duties of home were not too insistent, he attended school, but his education came as much from practical doing as from text books. In that way he passed the alternate summers and winters of his life until ready to take up the battle of existence for himself, and then continued as a farmer, a vocation which has afforded the basis of a comfortable prosperity.

On November 9, 1884, Mr. Neff married Bertie Freck, who represents one of the oldest and most prominent families of Huntington county. Her father, John Freck, was born in Ohio and married Anna M. Goss. From Ohio he became one of the pioneers of Huntington county, settling here in 1840, long before the wilderness had been subdued and when primitive conditions were to be seen in every township. John Freck became a prominent man in the early days of Huntington county, and was elected and served three years as county commissioner. Mrs. Neff grew up in this county, and acquired her education in the same way as her husband, by attending the district schools. To their marriage have been born nine children, mentioned briefly as follows: Nellie M., who is the wife of Roy D. Shideler ; Russell C., who is a graduate of the common schools and was also a student in high school, and is unmarried ; Schuyler R., who finished the course in common school and the Warren high school; Silas L., who took his diploma in the grade schools and is now a student in the Warren high school; three children who died in infancy ; John H., still attending the common schools, and Pauline M., who is the youngest of the family. The family worship in the Christian church at Belleville, and Mr. Neff has long taken an active part in the affairs of that church and is serving as a trustee. Fraternally he is also active, and believes in the beneficence of fraternal organization, and is a member of Salamonie Lodge, No. 392, I. O. O. F., and of the Encampment, No. 410, being past grand and a member of the Grand Lodge of Odd Fellows. It was his record in business and as a citizen that gave him the preference among the local democrats for the office of trustee in the fall of 1908, and his service since then has been exceptionally fortunate for the public schools of Jefferson township. Mr. Neff believes in progressive methods in school affairs and in the administration of all the duties which come under his administration, and his record has been such that his successor, when a successor is chosen, will find it extremely difficult to improve upon the standards set by Mr. Neff.

JosepH P. Huser. Agricultural conditions in Huntington county have changed to such an extent during the past several decades that the enterprising farmer, to keep abreast of the trend of the times, has been compelled to change to a large degree his methods of treating and cultivating the soil. New discoveries have been made, powerful machinery has been invented, and new innovations introduced, and he who would reap the most beneficial results from his toil must keep himself thoroughly conversant with the rapid changes of the day. Prominent among the farmers of Huntington county who has succeeded in his ventures because of his progressive spirit and modern business methods is Joseph P. Huber, of Jefferson township. Mr. Huber is a self-made man, for he started upon his business career at the age of thirteen years, without capital or influential friends, and has worked his way steadily to the forefront, now being the owner of a handsome property one mile west of Warren. He was born at Owensburg, Indiana, May 6, 1873, and is a son of John and Mary (Grim) Huber.

John Huber was born in Franklin county, Indiana, the son of German parents who emigrated to this country at an early day. He early adopted the vocation of farming, and in 1874 came to Huntington county and located on a farm on section 14, Jefferson township, but a short time later moved to Salamonie township, where he died in 1882. Mrs. Huber, who was also born in Franklin county of German parentage, subsequently remarried a man named Bayless, and they made their home on a farm in Jefferson township. John and Mary Huber were the parents of eight children, of whom five are living in 1914, namely: Minnie, who is the wife of John Spitzer, of Celina, Mercer county, Ohio; John, who is married and lives at Marion, Indiana; George, who is married and lives in Jennings county, Indiana; Joseph P., of this review; and Henry

Joseph P. Huber was reared in the rural communities of Huntington, Wills and Grant counties, Indiana, his father and stepfather owned properties. His education was secured in the district schools of these several communities, but his boyhood was largely filled with hard work, for his parents were in modest circumstances and he was supposed to do his part in the support of the family. He was only thirteen years of age when he laid aside his books to face the world as a worker, and being industrious, hard-working and energetic found no trouble in securing and retaining employment among the farmers of his locality. At all times he carefully saved his wages, a part of which were contributed to his mother, and he was twenty-four years of age when he finally considered himself ''even with the world,'' and ready to embark on a career of his own. He finally secured enough capital to invest in a small property, and from that time to the present his career has been a successful one. He now owns and operates a tract of forty acres in Jefferson township, one mile west of Warren, where he is conducting general farming and stock raising ventures. He has shown his ability as an agriculturist, and his management has been such that his property is considered one of the most desirable of its size in this section. He has good buildings, substantial and well equipped, his stock is of a fine quality, fat and contented, and his machinery is of the latest manufacture. Altogether, the property gives evidence of the presence of excellent management.

Mr. Huber was married May 23, 1900, to Miss Viola Trout, who was born in Jefferson township, Huntington county, Indiana, February 11, 1878, daughter of James A. and Sarah M. (Taylor) Trout. Mrs. Huber was reared on a farm in Jefferson township, received a public school education, and has been a great help to her husband, being thoroughly familiar with the work of the farm. They have one son, a bright, manly youth, Guy B., who was born June 3, 1901. Mr. and Mrs. Huber are consistent members of the Christian church, which they attend at Warren. They have numerous friends, and are numbered among the solid, reliable people of the community. In political matters Mr. Huber supports the principles of the democratic party, but has never aspired to public office.

JONATHAN L. Taytor. The manufacturing, financial and professional activities and achievements of any community are a source of great pride to its citizens and are important factors in its prosperity, but it is to the farms that the country must look for its support, and in the hands of the agriculturists lies the possibility of a locality's prosperity or depression. The section that may boast of a rich agricultural community, with intelligent, progressive and industrious men to till the soil is indeed fortunate, and it is for this reason that Huntington stands pre-eminent among her sister counties, for here are found agriculturists whose achievements can be excelled by those of no other in the state.

Among the men of the county who are maintaining agricultural supremacy here is found Jonathan L. Taylor, the owner of a valuable farm in Jefferson township. Mr. Taylor has had an active and useful career, and his rise to success through individual effort entitles him to be named as one of his township's self-made men.

Jonathan L. Taylor has been a lifelong resident of the township in which he now resides, having been born on a farm in section 25, February 27, 1858, a son of Samuel and Lucinda (Watters) Taylor. His parents came from Fayette county, Indiana, to Huntington county in 1846, and settled on a farm in Jefferson township, where they continued to spend the remainder of their lives. They were honorable people, of true worth, and although modest and unassuming, led useful careers and had the respect and esteem of all who knew them. They were the parents of ten children, of whom seven are living in 1914, as follows: James P., who is a resident of Jonesboro, Grant county; Elizabeth, who is the wife of Lawson A. Adams, of Fayette county, Indiana; Sarah, who is the wife of James A. Trout, of Jefferson township; William, whose home is at Gas City, Grant county; John P., living at Hamilton, Ohio; Jonathan L., of this review; and Alonzo, who makes his home at Neweastle, Henry county, Indiana.

The boyhood and youth of Jonathan L. Taylor were passed in the rural community of Jefferson township, and the district schools of his native locality furnished him with his educational training. His opportunities in this direction were limited, however, as he was called upon to assist his father in the labors of the home farm, and he was little more than a lad when his parents died and he was thrown upon his own resources. He early learned to be self-reliant, applied himself assiduously to whatever task was at hand, and earned the reputation of being a hard and persistent worker, so that he commanded good wages. In 1885 Mr. Taylor established a home of his own when he was united in marriage with Miss Josephine Wilker, who was born in Henry county, Indiana, a daughter of agricultural people who brought her to Huntington county when she was three years old. Mr. and Mrs. Taylor have had three children: Orville, a prosperous young farmer of Jefferson township, who married Effa Miller; Lulu, who is the wife of Orvie Wildermuth, who is engaged in farming in Wayne township, Huntington county ; and Clyde, who married Myrtle Good, and is following farming and stockraising in Jefferson township.

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Taylor settled on a farm one and one-quarter miles west of Warren, Indiana, on section 25, Jefferson township, and from time to time Mr. Taylor has added to his original purchase until he is now the owner of 106.15 acres. This he has put under a fine state of cultivation, his modern methods and persistent industry having made him one of his community's substantial men. He owes his success to no fortunate circumstance, but to the fact that he has grasped opportunities and made the most of them, that he has allowed no obstacle to retard him in his forward march, and that at all times and under all conditions he has shown himself upright and hon- orable in his dealings with his fellow men. He is a democrat in politics, and for two years served ds a member of the Huntington county committee. As a citizen he has shown himself willing to assist in movements for the public welfare, in which his judgmtnt is always respected by his co-workers. His fraternal activities are limited to membership in the Improved Order of Red Men, his lodge being located at Warren. His general popularity is evidenced by his wide circle of appreciative friends.

ADOLPHUS Taytor. The pioneers of Huntington county have done their work, and the result of their courageous and self-sacrificing efforts is shown today in the magnificently developed farms, the flourishing towns and cities, the splendidly kept roads and the perfectly equipped schools. But while great credit is due to these sturdy early settlers, it has been left to those who have followed them to perfect their work in its entirety, tò put the finishing touches on the labors started by them. Like Rome, Huntington county was not built in a day, but its completion is the result of years of unceasing endeavor, coupled with constant faith in the locality and appreciation of its possibilities. One of the representative farmers of this locality, who belongs to one of the pioneer families, and himself has contributed materially to the county's development, is Adolphus Taylor, of Jefferson township, who owns and operates a farm of 120 acres, lying two miles west of Warren.

Mr. Taylor was born in Jefferson township, August 30, 1860, and is a son of Samuel M. and Mary (Irvin) Taylor. The Taylor family was founded in this township as early as 1836, when William L. Taylor, the grandfather of Adolphus Taylor, entered land from the Government and settled down to make a home for his children in the midst of the wilderness. He spent. the remainder of his life here, an earnest, hardworking man, who won the respect of his neighbors because of his integrity and clean living. Samuel M. Taylor was born in Virginia and was a lad when he accompanied his parents to the new country of Indiana. He was brought up a farmer, and at the time of his father's death succeeded him in the ownership of the homestead, on which he continued to carry on operations throughout the remainder of his active career. Like his father, he was a steady-going farmer, a good citizen and a man respected for his sterling traits of character, and had numerous friends throughout the community. He married Miss Mary Irvin, who had come to Huntington county from North Carolina in girlhood, and they became the parents of five children, namely: Elizabeth A., who is the wife of George W. Roberts, of Allen county, Indiana; Lydia, who is the widow of Joseph Werley, of Warren; Adolphus, of this review; Samira M., who is the wife of William H. Roberts, a resident of Fort Wayne, Indiana; and Oscar, who is deceased.

Brought up to agricultural pursuits, Adolphus Taylor divided his boyhood and youth between attendance at the district schools of Jefferson township and working on the homestead farm, where he was thoroughly trained in agricultural methods. He was sixteen years of age when he laid aside his school books to concentrate his energies upon the tilling of the soil, but since that time has done much reading, and this, coupled with keen observation, has given him a wide and comprehensive knowledge of important matters. He was married October 20, 1894, to Miss Carrie Whitehurst, who was born in Rock Creek township, Huntington county, October 16, 1869. She was educated in the district schools of her native township, and, being the daughter of agricultural people, knew much of farm life and was able to render her husband great assistance in his labors. The young couple settled down to housekeeping on their present farm, and as the years have passed have added to their acreage and made this one of the valuable and well-improved properties of the township. Mr. Taylor is in thorough sympathy with modern methods, and is always ready to give a trial to innovations which his judgment tells him are practicable. General farming has received the greater part of his attention, but he has also met with success in stockraising ventures, and his business ability enables him to secure top-notch prices for his product in the markets. In politics a democrat, he has taken some interest in matters as they have affected his locality, but has left the struggles of the political arena to others, himself preferring to devote his energies to the cultivation of his broad and productive acres. He has won his fellow-townsmen's esteem and confidence by his honorable business methods, and his loyalty and fidelity have gained him many friends.

Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Taylor, of whom five are now living; Paul, a graduate of Warren High school; Vora A., who graduated from the graded schools at the age of thirteen and subsequently spent one year in Warren High school; Gladys, who is eleven years of age; Garnett, aged eight years; and Celia, the baby, who is four years old. Mr. Taylor isa friend of education, and his children are being fitted to take their proper stations: in the world. Inheriting their parents' sterling qualities, they will, no doubt, prove credits to their community and their bringing up.

Joun M. STANLEY. In a survey of the rural homes of Jefferson township which represent the better progress and attainments of that community the estate of John M. Stanley, known as the Woodland Home Farm, must be given a high rank. It is not one of the largest farms in Huntington county, but makes up in its improvements and attractiveness what it lacks in acreage. Its seventy-seven acres are situated a mile north and two miles west of Warren in Section 24. Its proprietor has spent practically all his life in Huntington county, belongs to good old pioneer stock, and has long been one of his township's leading citizens. l

John M. Stanley was born on a portion of the farm which he still owns, on August 29, 1855, a son of John and Mary (Watters) Stanley. His mother was born in the Pendleton district of South Carolina March 13, 1820, accompanied her parents to Franklin county, Indiana, where in 1847 she was united in marriage with John Stanley. Her death occurred March 22, 1894. John Stanley died about 1865, and was the father of eight children, four of whom are still living, as follows: W. S. Stanley, of Lancaster township ; Mary F., unmarried; Nancy E., the wife of Emanuel Brineman, of Marion; and John M. The deceased children were named Jennie, Lucinda, George and Morton G.

John M. Stanley grew up on the farm whose land has been cultivated by his labors since boyhood, and he has made his prosperity straight and clean, and has always been able to pull more than his own weight in the world, and while looking after his own interests has not neglected those of family and friends about him. Due to the fact that when he was ten years of age his father died, and that his help was required at home, he had only a meagre schooling and such as was supplied by the district schools of half a century ago. His mother needed his assistance on the farm, and she lived with him and depended upon his helpfulness and good management all her later years.

On April 24, 1895, Mr. Stanley married Ella J. Schull. She is a daughter of Daniel P. and Margaret A. (Hinkle) Schull. Her father was born in Jefferson township of Huntington county, and thus represents one of the old families of this section. Both her parents are still living in this county. Mr. Schull and wife became the parents of six children, five of whom are yet living, as follows: Ella J., Charles A., of Michigan; Lillie J., who is the wife of Columbus Wooster of Van Buren, Indiana; Otis E., who finished the course in the common. schools, and the Warren high school, took a business course in Fort Wayne, and is now a rising young business man in that city; George S., who lives in Marion. The daughter, Ella J., received her education in the common schools, and Mr. Schull and wife took special pains to afford all their children the best possible advantages while they were growing up. Mr. and Mrs. Stanley have taken a little girl into their home, Erma B. Allison, who was born in August, 1908, and are giving her the advantages and the affection the same as if she were their own child. Mr. Stanley and wife are members of the First Christian church in Warren. In politics he has been one of the local leaders of the Republican party for a number of years, has attended many conventions, has worked for the welfare of the party and for good government wherever possible, but his convictions led him during the campaign of 1912 into the ranks of the Progressives, and he supported the candidate of that party in that year.

Davin L. SHULL. Good judgment, perseverance, industry and intelligence combine to form the price of success in agricultural work in these ` modern days of farming, when the difficult and often unremunerative toil of former years has been replaced by the scientific use of modern machinery and a knowledge of the proper treatment of the soil. Among the agriculturists of Huntington county there are found many who have watched the advance and development of their vocation from the days of primitive implements, and through the passing years have kept themselves abreast of the changes, combining their practical experience with the inventions and discoveries that have been made, and in this way attaining a full measure of success from their labors. Numbered among these men is found David E. Shull, of Jefferson township, who has been a lifelong resident of this locality and is now one of the substantial and highly esteemed citizens of the vicinity of Warren. Mr. Shull was born on a farm in section 14, Jefferson township, December 7, 1846, and is a son of George and Naney (Detamore) Shull.

George Shull was born in Virginia, and there educated and reared to manhood. After his marriage to Nancy Detamore he made removal to what is now West Virginia, went then to Ohio, and in 1840 established the family in Huntington county, Indiana, when he located on a farm in section 14, Jefferson township. Settling among the pioneers, in the timber country, he cleared a tract of land and engaged in farming, but later disposed of his interests there, and after an experience of short duration on another farm in the same section removed to Salamonie township, where he engaged in active farming operations, but subsequently returned to Jefferson township, where he remained until the time of his death. He was an industrious and enterprising farmer and a sterling citizen, foremost in supporting movements for the benefit of his community. He and his wife were the parents of ten children, of whom five survive at this time, namely: Jacob, who is a resident of Warren; Lydia, the wife of Charles A. Andrews, of Salamonie township; David L., of this review; Daniel P., a resident of Jefferson township ; and Ves, living at Warren.

David L. Shull has passed practically his entire life within the limits of Jefferson township, and is thoroughly conversant with its soil and climatice conditions. He was an industrious and enterprising lad, and found his boyhood and youth filled to the utmost with the duties of the homestead farm and the task of securing an education in the township schools, and when he attained his majority he entered energetically upon a career of his own in his chosen field of agriculture. He founded a home of his own in October, 1868, when he was married to Miss Serepha Woods, an estimable young lady of Salamonie township, where she had been born. In 1869 Mr. Shull located on the farm which he now occupies, and as he was possessed of little capital was forced to go into debt to the extent of $400. Locating in the woods three miles southwest of Warren, he was confronted by the usual difficulties which were to be encountered by the young farmers of that day, but his energetic spirit, his indifference to obstacles and his restless ambition soon gave him a start, and he was not only able to pay off his indebtedness, but found himself upon the high road to success. As the years passed he cleared and improved more and more of his land, and at this time he is possessed of one of the best eighty-acre farms to be found in Jefferson township. General farming has received the greater part of his attention, but he has also met with signal success in the breeding of high grade stock, making a specialty of Shropshire sheep and Poland-China hogs.

Mr. and Mrs Shull have had four children: one who died in infancy ; Allison, who married Miss Ollie Taylor ; Norman, who married Jessie Thorp and lives at Flat Rock, Illinois; and a daughter who died at the age of seventeen years. Mr. Shull is an excellent example of the live, progressive, up-to-date farmers of the Twentieth Century, one who knows how Vol. II - 12 to make his land pay him a profit, and how to enjoy life in the surroundings that have always beenhis. He is a Republican in politics and was Road Supervisor for years and a member of the Advisory Board. Among his neighbors he is known as a man of a large and generous heart, who will sacrifice his personal interests to assist others. It is but natural that he should have a wide circle of friends.

JosepH E. ALLEN. The rich agricultural resources of Huntington county have afforded to Joseph E. Allen the opportunities for securing success, and here, through earnest and consistent effort he has won a place among his locality's substantial men. His present farm, a tract of eighty acres, lying one mile south and three miles west of Warren, is one of the well-developed properties of Jefferson township, and in its management Mr. Allen has displayed the possession of business ability of more than an ordinary nature. As a citizen he has discharged his duties and responsibilities faithfully, and in each avenue of lfe's endeavor he has succeeded in his efforts to be known as a helpful and reliable member of his community.

Mr. Allen was born in Lancaster township, Huntington county, Indiana, March 22, 1871, and is a son of Curtis and Susanna (Beck) Allen. His father, a native of Howard county, Indiana, was there educated in the public schools, and in young manhood came to Lancaster township, Huntington county, and was married to one of that locality's native daughters. They settled down to agricultural pursuits, in which they continued to be engaged throughout their active careers, and both have now passed away. Mr. Allen was married twice, and had six children, namely: Mary J., who is the wife of John Miller; Joseph E., of this review; and John M., Ella May, Frank and Dow, who are all deceased.

Joseph E. Allen was a small lad when his parents brought him to Jefferson township, and here he grew: to manhood amid rural surroundings. He secured liberal educational advantages in the district school in the vicinity of his father's farm, and when not engrossed in his studies was engaged in assisting his father in the work of the homestead, thus growing to sturdy manhood with an alert mind and a strong and well-trained body. In October, 1880, he founded a home of his own when he was married, the lady of his choice being Miss Amanda Rinehart, of Jefferson township. Of the five children born to this union four are still living: Russell, a graduate of the common schools, who married Glagie Myers, and is now engaged in successful farming operations in Jefferson township ; Everett, a graduate of the common schools, who resides at home and assists his father in the work of farming; Miss Edith, who lives at home with her parents; Cleatus, the baby, who is one and one-half years old.

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Allen settled on the farm which they now occupy, and which through conservative and well-directed effort has been brought to a high state of cultivation. In his work Mr. Allen has kept abreast of the progress of the times and is a recognized leader among the agriculturists and stockraiserg of Jefferson township. The consensus of opinion regarding him is altogether favorable and the high esteem in which he is uniformly held comes as a tribute to his high business and personal worth. His farm is well equipped with improvements of the most modern character, as Mr. Allen is a firm believer in the use of the latest inventions, discoveries and methods and the gratifying results which he has achieved are testimonials to the effect that his judgment is of the best. He has a comfortable and wellappointed residence, a commodious and substantial barn and well-built outbuildings, his well-bred cattle are fat and content, and all in all his property is one which creates a favorable impression upon the visitor and yields Mr. Allen a handsome income.

Mr. and Mrs. Allen are consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Otterbein, Mr. Allen being a member of the board of trustees. In political matters he supports the principles of democracy, and has been prominent in the affairs of his township, especially in the line of good roads, being appointed under the laws of the county as superintendent of gravel roads for Huntington county and having Jurisdiction over the Beck, Shaw, Green, Searles, Detamore, Wearley, Cross, Nunamaker, Trout and Hawkins gravel roads. His public service has been characterized by conscientious devotion to duty, and as a result he is known as one of the helpful men of his community whose activities are potent factors in its development.

Henry Trout. One of the honored residents of Huntington county who for long years has borne a conspicuous and active part in its agricultural affairs, who is now in a green old age, and who still takes a keen interest in those things which make for progress and advancement, is Henry Trout, the monument to whose labors is a finely cultivated farm located five miles west and one-half mile south of Warren, in Jefferson township. A veteran of the great Civil war, through which he fought valiantly as a soldier in the ranks of the Blue, Mr. Trout has at all times shown himself a patriotic and public-spirited citizen, whose devotion to duty and to friendship has gained him the unqualified esteem and respect of those among whom his career has been passed.

Henry Trout was born on his father's farm in Highland county, Ohio, March 7, 1843, and is a son of Robert W. and Nancy (Allison) Trout. They were natives of the Buckeye state, where they were reared, educated and married, and shortly after their union started out for Huntington county, the journey being made in a wagon. They settled on the Beck gravel road, three and one-half miles west of Warren, where the father had a lease on 160 acres of land, but after several years there he passed away and the widow was left with her six sons. They were given but small opportunities to secure educational advantages, but were industrious and ambitious youths and took up their father's work where he had laid it down, and during the twelve years that the family lived on the leased farm managed to bring it under a good state of cultivation. Henry Trout had just passed his eighteenth year when the Civil war broke out. He was filled with patriotic ardor, but it was not until 1862 that he was able to leave his duties at home and join the young men of his neighborhood in going to the front to defend the country's flag. At that time he became a private in Company E, Seventy-fifth Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served with this command until the surrender of General Lee at Appomattox virtually put an end to hostilities, and Mr. Trout was mustered out of the service and received his honorable discharge at Indianapolis. During his service he participated in numerous important and 'hard-fought battles, including Chickamauga, Hoovers Gap and the engagements of the Atlanta campaign, and at Atlanta received a wound in his right leg which incapacitated him and confined him to the hospital for two months. He at all times showed himself a brave and faithful soldier, cheerfully performing the duties assigned to him and earning alike the admiration of his comrades and the respect of his officers.

When his services to his country were completed, Mr. Trout returned to Huntington and courageously resumed the battles of peace. His subsequent career has been passed in agricultural operations, and at this time he is the owner of forty acres of good land, a farm which he has brought to a fertile and cultivated state. In the management of his affairs Mr. Trout has shown himself a capable and reliable business man. Every trust reposed in him, whether of a public or private nature, has been fully discharged, and he has proved himself in all the relations of life an earnest, honest, upright man, and a citizen of whom any community might be justly proud. He has always been progressive by nature, and in the campaign of 1912 joined the new party of that name, but, while he takes a keen interest in matters of public importance and gives due consideration, he has never cared for public office.