Johnson County, Indiana - Chapter 7, 1888 (part 1 of 6)

Chapter 7

Towns - Franklin - Early Business Men and Residents - Incorporation - - Officers - Industries - Banks - The Press - Secret Societies - Loan Associations - Edinburg

ONCERNING the founding of Franklin, and the location of the county seat at that place, so much has already been said by Judge Banta in his chapter on the early settlement, that it would be useless to repeat it here. In Chapter VIII, there is also much of interest pertaining to the town in its early days. From the best information at hand, Daniel J. Taylor, Joseph Young and Samuel Herriott, were the first to engage in the mercantile trade in the town of Franklin. The first named came from Cincinnati, Ohio, as early as 1825, and opened a small general store, next to the Smiley Hotel, on Jefferson Street, where he carried on a fairly successful business for a short time. Of the personal history of Mr. Taylor, and his pioneer experience in Franklin, but little is now known, bevond the declarations of a few old settlers, all of whom unite in the expression that he was a man of ordinary intelligence and business ability, but that he made but little impression as a merchant and tradesman.

Messrs. Herriott and Young became identified with the mercantile interests of the tow.i as early as 1825, and sold goods very successfully for several years thereafter. George King, the proprietor of the town, was an earlv merchant, and a little later came Hicks and Gilchrist, Simon Moore and Cornelius McDermed, all of whom are remembered as fairly successfal tradesmen.

At the time the town was laid out, and for several years succeeding, its importance was chieflv recognized in the light of a central trading point, for a large area of territory surrounding, because of the fact of its having been selected as a seat of justice for the countv, it acquired a well earned reputation. Capital sought investment in the new town. Tradesmen, representing various lines of business were attracted by the advantages the place offered, and until the vear 1836-7, a general spirit of prosperity seemed to have characterized the growth and development of the village and country surrounding. A season of depression was experienced in 1S37, but the increase in population and facilities for business during the several years succeeding was gradual, uniform and certain. Prior to 1841, the spirit of substantial improvement and enterprise was developed in a limited degree. At a later period, however, new life and vigor began to be infused into the elements of progress, and more rapid advances in the prospects of trade began to be foreshadowed. After the completion of the railroad, activity in every department of industry was the rule, rather fhan the. exception, and capital before withheld from profitable investments, began to seek investment in public and private enterprises which have since yielded profitable returns.

From that time the character of the general, improvements was no longer uncertain, but continued to assume a more healthy and permanent aspe:t, than was ever before known, and the population, therefore, increased in a greater ratio, during the succeeding decade. At this time the place is supplied with two railroads, and other facilities necessarv for a successful mercantile town, make Franklin equaled bv few "and surpassed by a far less number of places of its size and population.

In addition to the merchants already named, the following may be enumerated among the many who sold goods in the city from time to time, at a later period: Henrv Fox, Herriott & Overstreet, W. H. & R. T. Overstreet, Williams & McClellan, Man warring & Adams, all of whom began business prior to 1850. Prominent among the more successful merchants since that year, were John L. Jones (still in business), R. T. Ditmars, White & Branham, Needham & Brown, Gullett, Webb & Keightly, M. M. Tressler, E. R. Moore, Fessler & Dav, David Vawter, David Alexander,

The following list prepared by Dr. Donnell, includes the names and occupations of a majority of the citizens of Franklin in the year 1841: William H. Overstreet, merchant; Henry Nance, miller; James Nance, Leroy Burns, miller; Abram Lay, jailor; W. E. Clark, tailor; Isaac Jones, sheriff; Thomas Williams, farmer;

Charles Johnson, teamster; Eli Gilchrist, merchant; David Allen, clerk of circuit court; James Gwinn, mechanic; Alfred Scull, plasterer; Gilderoy Hicks, lawyer; William Sickles, minister and teacher in seminary; Rev. David Monfort, pastor Presbyterian Church; Thomas Alexander, merchant; John R. Kerr, clerk; John Logan, laborer; James Wilson, mechanic; Sherva Lawhorn laborer; John Alexander, William Cummins, and Henry Cum- mins, blacksmiths; George King, merchant and farmer: Harvey Sloan, mechanic: John Jackson, cabinet-maker; Samuel Allison, shoemaker: Samuel Herriott, farmer, trader and merchant: Garrett C. Bergen, farmer and tanner: George Bergen, tanner; John High, mechanic: Stephen Porter, wagon-maker; D. Smith, liquor dealer; John Terhune. laborer; Daniel Webb, physician; A. D. Sweet, physician; William Springer, teamster: Samuel McKirmey, lawyer; James Fletcher, saddler; Rev. A. W. Hinckley, pastor Baptist Church; David Alexander, blacksmith; Horatio G. Finch, law student; David White, stage-driver; Frank Ferguson, mechanic; Henry Banta, wagon-maker; Rev. William Tilton, Baptist minister; Tunis Vannuvs, farmer: James Smock, laborer: Nat Wilson, railroader; Abram'Starks, carpenter; Robert Todd, wagonmaker; Ellis Armstrong, carpenter: Wm. Davidson, painter: John Alexander, stage driver: Wm. Pierson, carpenter; Dick Robbins, laborer; McKinley L. Johnson, painter; James Harvey, carpenter; lawyer; John Bowen, brick mason; Samuel Lambertson, tailor; W. H. Henderson, tinner; Joseph McClellan, merchant: Alexander Wilson, wheelwright; Ed. McDermed, saddler; William Carson, hatter; John Ritchie, saddler: Joseph Young, farmer: S. B. Moore, merchant; James Ritchev, physician; Lysander Adams, shoemaker: George Comingove, tanner; William Moreland, tanner; William Gwinn. mechanic; J. C. King, minister; Abdallah Thompson, carpenter; I. P. Montfort, clerk; James Frary, mechanic; I H. Donnell, phvsician; John S. Tilford, cabinet-maker; t. M. Finch, lawver; James Bennett, John H. Vannuvs, farmer; Tunis Vannuys, farmer; Nicholas Shaffer, hotel; Jacob McClellan, clerk. Incorporation. - It is impossible to fix definitely the date of the incorporation of Franklin as a village, but from the most reliable information, it could not have been far from the year 1838 or 1839. Pursuant to the provision of the General Assembly, for the incorporation of towns and villages, then in force, the citizens assembled and submitted the question to the determination of the legally qualified voters present. At that election, upon counting the ballots so cast, it was found that a small majority of the citizens were in favor of the measure, accordingly the incorporation was effected, and the necessary municipal officers chosen. It did not prove popular, however, and after a short trial was abandoned. Subsequently a town incorporation was adopted, which continued successfully until 1861. A city charter was obtained in 1861, and at a session of the

Section I. Be it ordained by the common council, of the city of Franklin, that the ward, city or corporation, wherever the same may occur in this or any following ordinance, or in any ordinance hereafter ordained or established by said council, shall be construed to extend and apply to all that part of the Township of Franklin, in the County of Johnson and State of Indiana, included in and embraced by Section fourteen (14), the north half (»-£) of Section twenty-three (23), the west half (!£) of Section thirteen (13), and northwest quarter (%) of Section twenty-four (24), Township 12 (12) north, Range four (4) east.

Section 3. All that part of said city lying south of a line running east and west through the center of Jefferson Street, in said city, shall constitute the First Ward.

Section 4. All that part of said city lying north of the line drawn east and west through the center of Jefferson Street, and east of a line running from the center of Jefferson Street north, along the center of Market Street to the center of Adams Street; thence east to the Madison & Indianapolis Railroad; thence with said railroad to the north boundary of said city, shall constitute the Second Ward.

Section 5. All that part of said city lying north of the north line of Ward No. 1, and of the west line of Ward No. 2, shall constitute the Third Ward.

Under the above ordinance the following officers were elected : mayor, Benjamin Davis; clerk, John O. Martin; treasurer, William H. Henderson; city attorney, D. W. Howe; marshal, William H. Myers, resigned, and Solomon Gerow appointed January 26, 1862; assessor, Chambers C. Hamilton.

Council men. - The following have served as members of the city council from time to time, since 1867: Thomas W.- Woollen, W. J. Mathes, J. T. Jones, Leland Payne, W. C. Crowell, James Wilson, A. B. Hunter, John Beal, Armstrong Alexander, A. B. Colton, George F. Herriott, John R. Fessler, W. H. McLaughlin, R. T. Taylor, R. S. Sturgeon, L. P. Ritchey, William B. Ellis, William I. Peters, I. I. Covert, I. H. McLaughlin, M. Walker, William A. Davis, William I. Peters, Charles Riker, B. M. Stansifer, James Jacobs, R. M. Miller, W. T. Pritchard, Charles Day.

Industries. - To go back to the founding of Franklin, and give in detail an account of its various business and manufacfuring enterprises, is a task beyond the power of the writer to accomplish. There are but few persons now living, who were here when the city was laid out, and those few were too young then, or too old, now, to remember very much concerning the early industries of the place, consequently tHe chronicler is forced to depend mainly upon hear say " evidence for many of the facts in the following pages. Among the first industries attempted in Franklin, was a tannery, established as early as the year 1825 or 1826, by a Mr. Vannoy, who began business upon a limited scale, near the creek, on South Main Street. After operating the yard a short time, Mr. Vannoy sold out to Robert Gilchrist, who did a fairly successful business for a few years, and then disposed of the enterprise to Robert

Jeffrey. Later, Henry Krumpenske became proprietor, and in 1863, the business was purchased by Messrs. Wheat & Bergen, who ran it until 1867, when Bergen became sole proprietor. Mr. Bergen operated the tannery quite successfully until 1876.

About the year 1844, a tobacco and cigar factory was started in East Franklin, between Jefferson and Madison streets, by W. H. Manwarring, which was operated until early in the fifties. Mr. Manwarring manufactured cigars and plug tobacco, which were sold throughout the country from wagons, two or three of which were kept running for some years.

Woolen-mills. - In the manufacture of woolen goods the farming community of Johnson County were greatly benefited, in an early day, by the presence in Franklin of carding machines and woolen-mills, which afforded a good market for the wool product. The first attempt of this kind was made about the year 1837, by Abdallah Thompson, who erected a small frame building on King Street, which was supplied with machinery for carding and spinning. George W. Branham, about 1855', erected a large three-story brick woolen-mill, near the railroad, where the Waggener and McLaughlin planing-mill now stands, and supplied it with machinery for the manufacture of such woolen goods as blankets, cashmeres, jeans, yarns, etc., all of which products soon obtained an extensive sale in Indianapolis, and other cities. About the year 1868, Messrs. Bradley & Kerlin erected a woolen factory opposite the Union Roller Mill, and began the manufacture of such got>ds as are made in mills of the kind, but the enterprise did not prove financially remunerative, consequently was soon abandoned.

Pork Houses. - The pork business was one of the early industries of Franklin, and some time in the forties, a slaughter and packing house was erected in the southeast part of town, by Dr. John Peggs and John High.

The largest pork packing firm that ever did business in Franklin, was that of Herriott, Vawter, Wheat & Alexander, which was formed about the year 1867 or 1868. A brick building was erected in the south part of town, where the starch works now stand; a large force of men was employed and for about four years the firm did a prosperous business.

Flouring Mills. - "Pearl Roller Mill" operated at this time by Payne, Johnson & Co., is 'entitled to more than a passing notice, now one of the oldest landmarks left of the early history of the city. This mill is probably the first one ever erected in the vicinity, and was built by Messrs. Branham & Yandes. After being operated a few years by the above firm, it passed into the possession of Mr. Branham, who, later, in partnership with J. V. Branham, did a good business until 1854. ^n that }'ear it was purchased by Ebenezer Baldwin and Leland Payne, who operated it as a firm until 1 88 1, the capacity being about sixty barrels of flour per da}'. July 1, 1881, Mr. Baldwin retired from the firm, and was succeeded by John W. Ragsdale, in 1882. In 1882 the mill was remodeled, and supplied with machinery for the manufacture of flour by the roller process, seven double sets of rollers being put in, with a capacity of 200 barrels per day. In April, 1884, Dr. P. W. Payne, brother of L. Payne, and J. B. Payne, a son of the latter, became members of the firm. During this co-partnership, the mill was materially improved in the way of bolting and cleaning machinerv, and became one of the best mills in the county. July, 1887, Dr. Payne and Mr. Ragsdale retired from the firm, and were succeeded by M. L. Johnson and W. H. Small, since which time the partnership has been known as Pavne, Johnson & Co. In March, 1888, the mill was well nigh destroyed by the explosion of one of the large boilers, which completely demolished the south end of the building, resulting in the death of the engineer and fireman. The proprietors have since repaired the loss consequent upon the disaster, by enlarging the building and furnishing a new and more powerful engine. What is known as the Needham mill, east of the J., M. & I. Railroad, was erected some time in the forties, by William Needham, and was originally intended for an elevator. It was subsequently supplied with mill machinery, and has been in operation ever since. It is still owned by Mr. Needham, and is now operated by Mr. Jordan.

Union Roller Mill. - One of the most successful enterprises of Franklin is the mill property of McDaniel & Co., known as the Union Roller Mill, the history of which, dates from about the year 1852. The building was erected by a stock company, composed of well-known business men of the city, and when completed, began to be operated by W. H. Overstreet, who ran it until about 1857. The next proprietor was John Tressler, who operated it until sometime in the sixties, when John Clark became owner. Major George Herriott purchased the property in 1870, and afterward remodeled the building and otherwise improved the mill. It was operated some time bv Messrs. Smilev & Hutchins, and in December, 1879, Passe(i into the hands of C. W. and Ira McDaniel, at which time, the daily capacity was estimated at seventy-five barrels. The building was thoroughly remodeled, and a roller plant with a capacity of 200 barrels was put in, in 1880. Four years later an elevator with a capacity of 35,000 bushels was erected south of the main building. Ira McDaniel disposed of his interest, in 1880, to W. B. Wright, but purchased from the latter in 1886. January, 1888, Will- iamSucko bought Ira McDanieFs interest, and is now a member of the firm. The mill building is a three-story frame structure, 41x52 feet in size, with basement and attic. The engine room, thirty-six feet square, and the machinery, which is of the latest improved patera, is operated by an eighty-seven horse power engine, one of the finest in the state.

Saw-mills. - Johnson County, being a heavily timbered country, early led men of enterprise to engage in the manufacture of lumber. Accordingly, saw-mills were among the first industries of Franklin. It is not now known who brought the first steam saw-mill to the town, but as early as 1S40, one William Nance, was operating one on South Jackson Street, west of the Bergen tannery. In addition to sawing lumber, Mr. Xance manufactured corn-meal, and operated his mill with fair success for several years. There have been saw-mills in operation continually since 1840, and to give an appropriate sketch of each, is now impossible. There are two mills in active operation at this time, by X. M. Pittman and J. L. Landis, respectively.

Planing Mills. - Probably the first planing mill in Franklin was erected and operated by John High and Dr. Thomas, some time prior to 1854. In addition to planing lumber the firm ran a sawmill, an%d also machinery for the manufacture of lath shingles. The mill did a good business for about four years, when the building was destroyed bv fire. John Voris & Bro., about the year 1865, erected a planing mill near the Martinsville Railroad on Jefferson Street, and operated it with reasonable success, until the death of Mr. Voris, a few years later. It afterward passed into other hands and did not prove financially successful, until the present proprietors, Messrs. Jones & Bergen, "obtained possession. These gentlemen have been established here for several years, and by proper attention to the desires of their customers have attained quite a handsome trade. Adjoining the mill is a large lot used in storing lumber, and just north of the main building is a brick foundry and machine shop, which has been in operation for some time under the management of the proprietor, Anton Sawer.

Waggener & McLaughlin. - The firm of Waggener & Mc- Laughlin is composed of two individuals, both of whom can be classed among the well-known and reliable business men of Franklin. The large planing mill, of which they are proprietors, was built by Payne & Pavne. who operated it with encouraging success until 1882, at which time it was leased bv Robert Waggener. One year later the building was burned, after which Mr. Waggener leased the brick building formerly used as a woolen factory by Baldwin & Pavne, and fitted it up with good machinery. He purchased the building in 1887, and the following year took in W. H. McLaughlin as a partner, since which time the well-known firm of Waggener & McLaughlin have became widely and favorably known throughout Johnson and neighboring counties.

Ransdell Brothers. - These gentlemen also do a large business in dressed lumber, scroll-work, mouldings, etc., besides dealing extensively in lath and shingles, and filling large contracts for builders. The firm was organized in 1885, and now operate a planing mill on Jefferson Street, which has a daily capacity of 7,000 feet. The Messrs. Ransdell are practical business men, and bv strict attention to the demands of their customers, have built up a large and lucrative trade.

Cooperage. - There are at this time two establishments of this kind in the city, wherein the manufacture of barrels is carried on, both of which are carried on by the well-known firm of Walker & Sons. The business was originally started in i860, at the present location, on the J., M. & I. Railroad, and from the beginning proved financially remunerative, as is attested by the fact that the firm were compelled to enlarge their facilities for manufacture in 1885. They employ eleven men in the old shop and twelve in the new, the latter of which stands near the college building, and manufacture upon an average of 40,000 barrels per }rear, nearly all of which are used by the starch works and flouring mills of Franklin. The firm operate a stave and heading machine at Martinsville, wrhich with the business of the shops in this city, represent an invested capital of $4,000.

The Franklin Starch Works. - The largest and by far the most important branch of industrv, within the limits of Franklin, and the one by which the city has become so well-known throughout the country, is the Franklin Starch Works, Thompson, White & Co., proprietors. This extensive enterprise was established in 1880, by a company composed of Samuel Cutsinger, J. M. Thompson, J. L. Hartley and J. M. Detrick. In due time the large brick building, 150x200 feet in size, and two stories high, was completed and supplied with the latest improved machinery, and representing a capital of $90,000. The works have a capacity of 1,200 bushels of corn per day, or an average annual consumption of 250,000 bushels, which converted into the finest quality of starch represents the enormous sum of 6,000,000 pounds. Several changes have been made in the company since its organization, the first of which was in the summer of 1881, when Messrs. Detrick and Hartley retired. The same year George and Edmonson Cutsinger became members of the firm, and are still identified with the enterprise. The company at this time is composed of J. M. Thompson, Samuel

Cutsinger, George Cutsinger, Edmonson Cutsinger and Thomas White, all of whom rank among the most reliable and best-known business men of Johnson County.

The Indiana Starch Company was organized and incorporated October, 1885, with a capital of $50,000. David Swift, William A. McNaughton, Oren C. Dunn and Henry J. Forsyth, stockholders. A suitable plat of ground in the south part of the city, adjoining the J., M. & I. Railroad, was secured, upon which, in due time, the present handsome buildings were erected, and supplied with necessary appliances and machinery. Owing to financial embarrassments, however, the company was not able to put the factory in operation, and the magnificent buildings, much to the regret of the citizens of Franklin, are now standing idle.

Johnson Count x Creamery Company. - The manufacture of butter is another of the branches of industry to be found within the limits of Franklin. The company was organized and incorporated under the state law, July, 1886, with" a capital of $6,000, and a stated term of existence of fifty years. The company is composed of Louis H. Hulsman, Harry E. Hamilton and William B. Jennings. The machinery used is of the latest and most approved pattern, and the capacity of the creamery is about 2,500 pounds of butter per week. The gentlemen who comprise the firm are practical business men.

Franklin Steam Laundry. - This enterprise was established in April, 1883, by Messrs. Winchester & Lane, and was then known as the Cr}rstal Laundry. Mr. Winchester retired from the business in 1884, after which the firm became known as Lane & Stewart, Lane purchasing his partners interest at the end of three months. It afterward passed through the hands of several persons, and, in February, 1888, Whitesides & Lane, the present firm, became owners and proprietors. They remodeled the establishment and refitted it with new appliances, and now have a complete outfit, the whole representing a capital of $1,500. The business, from a very small beginning, has increased until the laundry is now kept running at its full capacity.

Hotels. - Probably the first house opened for the accommodation of the traveling public in Franklin, was a small two-story frame hotel on the corner of Jefferson and Main streets, erected some time in the thirties, by Judge Smiley, and kept by one William Leach. The building was afterward purchased by a Mr. Taylor, and answered the purpose of a place of entertainment for several years.

The Foster House, south of the lot now occupied by Hazell's livery stable, was erected in an early day, by John Foster, who became a citizen of the town when it was a mere backwoods vil- lage. The Foster House was part log and part frame, and earned a fair reputation as a hotel, but was abandoned about the year 1843. Late in the thirties, Nicholas Shaffer erected a two-story frame building where the Hazell livery stable stands, and opened it for the benefit of those who saw fit to accept and pay for his hospitalities. This early became the leading hotel of the place, and for a number of years was a popular resort for the traveling public. Shaffer kept it for some time, and is remembered as a very courteous and accommodating landlord. The house was torn down about the year 1848.

The Strahmier House was built in 1848, by John Herriott, and first used as a boarding-house for workmen employed on the Madisonville Railroad. Subsequently, it passed into the hands of William Strahmier, who remodeled and enlarged the building, and made it a popular hotel. It was kept by different parties, and stood until 1881, at which time it was destroyed bv fire. James Chenoweth, about the year 1848, erected a two-story frame hotel southeast of the court house, where the Vance livery stable stands, and acted the part of "mine host" some four or five years. The building was afterward used as a residence, and disappeared several years ago. The Peggs House, corner of Railroad and Madison streets, one of the few old land-marks left standing in the citv, was erected as early as 1847 or 1848, by Jacob Peggs. It has been used as a hotel continuously since the above year, and is now kept by Richard Rhodes. The building, an old-fashioned frame structure, is in a good state of preservation, and bids fair to withstand the ravages of time for many years to come.

Merchants '5 Hotel. - This hotel was built originally for a boarding-house, by G. W. Branham, who opened it about the year 1850, for the accommodation of railroad workmen. Subsequently, it was remodeled, the frame part torn away, and a substantial brick structure erected by George Bridges, Amos Alexander and Sanford Webb, after which a Mr. Hyde, of Indianapolis, took charge, and ran it a number of years. The large addition west of the old building was erected about the year 1867, at which time several thousand dollars were expended in interior improvements and furnishing. The house has been run by different parties, among whom may be mentioned Runyon, Hyde, Weatherford, Browning, Strahmier and Thomas. The present proprietors are Messrs. Hellerick and Wilson.

Banks. - The financial operations of a city, as shown by the transactions of its banks, mirror its importance as a commercial center, and reflect the prosperity of the country tributary to its business. The history of Franklin's banking operations dates from

January, 1855, at which time the first institution of the kind in the city, The Farmers' Bank, an outgrowth of the Franklin Insurance company, was organized under the free banking law of the state, then in force, with Samuel Herriott, president, and R. T. Overstreet, cashier. This bank proved an active stimulus to the business of the town, and continued in successful operation until about the year 1862.

The next bank was a private concern, organized about the year i860 or 1861, by Willis S. Webb, W. W. Woollen and Theodore Pinkney. The venture proved quite successful, and after an existence of two years, resulted in the organization of the First National Bank, which was established in 1863, with a capital of $132,000; W. S. Webb, president, and W. W. Woollen, cashier. This was Bank No. 50, one of the first organized in Indiana under the national banking law, and being operated by well-known and substantial business men, soon took rank among the most successful institutions of the kind in the state. It did a large general banking business, and for a number of years enjoyed a reputation much more than local. The second officers were Capt. John Banta, president; T. W. Woollen, cashier, and later Mr. Woollen and E. G. brewer were elected to the offices of president and cashier, respectively. Subsequently, Judge Woollen was succeeded as president by James Forsyth, and the next cashier was R. T. Taylor, who afterward became defaulter to a large amount, crippling the bank and causing a suspension of its business in 1877.

Second National Bank. - The Second National Bank of Franklin, was organized in the summer of 1863, with a capital of $100,000; G. W. Branham, president, and R. T. Overstreet, cashier. The capital was increased shortly afterward to $150,000, and the bank continued under the original management until 1866, when Mr. Branham resigned the presidency, and was succeeded by John Clark. On severing his connection with the institution, Mr. Branham went to Kansas City, Mo., and organized the First National Bank at that place. Subsequently, Mr. Clark was succeeded by W. H. Lagrange, aside from which there were no other changes in the management of the bank until the expiration of the charter in 1883. The Second National enjoyed a very successful and prosperous career, and paid regularly, ten per cent, upon amounts invested, besides other demands. The charter expiring, the business of the institution was closed, after which, a majority of the stockholders organized the Franklin Bank, with L. W. Fletcher, president, and R. T. Overstreet, cashier. One year later, Mr. Fletcher was succeeded by R. T. Overstreet, whose place as cashier, was then filled by E. C. Miller. After one year's service as president, Mr. Over- street, owing to failing health, was compelled to retire from the position, whereupon John T. Vawter, Esq., was elected to rill the vacancy. The institution continued as a state bank until May, 1S85, when it was re-chartered under the national banking law, as the Franklin National Bank, Messrs. Vawter and Miller, retaining their respective positions.

In the meantime, August, 1882, the National Bank of Franklin was organized, with a capital of $50,000, the following wellknown business men constituting the official management: John Clarke, president; W. H. Lagrange, vice president, and J. C. Smith, cashier. This institution continued in successful operation until February, 1888, when the charter was surrendered for the purpose of consolidating with the Franklin National Bank, which was duly effected on the first day of the above month. It is a notable fact, that during the existence of the above institutions, Franklin was the only city in the state that supported two national banks. Since the consolidation the Franklin National Bank has been officered as follows: President, John Clarke; vice president, J. C. Smith; cashier, E. C. Miller; assistant cashier, Victor Smith. It has a capital of $100,000, a surplus of $20,000, and is considered one of the leading and reliable banking houses of central Indiana.

Gas Works." - Franklin has a complete system of gas works, extending throughout the city, furnishing ample light, there being about five miles of pipe laid. The gas company was organized and incorporated May, 1869, with a capital of $50,000. The first directors were: D. G. Vawter, P. W. Payne, N. M. Scholfield, L. W. Fletcher, W. H. Jennings, T. W. Woollen, John Clarke, R. T. Overstreet, Robert Hamilton and John T. Vawter. About three-fourths of the business houses, and one-fourth of the# residences of the city, use gas, also the starch works, hotel, flouring mills, school buildings and court house; the average daily consumption being from twelve to sixteen thousand cubic feet. The present officers of the company are: T. W. Woollen, president; W. S. Young, secretary; S. P. Oyler, treasurer, and A. L. Woollen, superintendent.

The Press. - The honor of establishing the first newspaper in Franklin, belongs to John R. Kerr, a native of Tennessee, who, as early as the year 1846, issued the first number of The Examiner, a small local sheet, largely made up of clippings from other papers. Mr. Kerr was an educated gentleman, but through some mistorture became totally blind, and his newspaper venture at this place was a dernier ressort to obtain a livelihood. He had learned the typo's art in his younger days, and being a fair writer, was in- duced to enter the field of journalism at the suggestion of his friends, quite a number of whom assisted him in procuring the necessary outfit. His wife, who was also blind, assisted in setting type, and a nephew, Frank Kerr, became business manager of the paper, which soon obtained a fairly remunerative circulation. After editing the Examiner a short time Mr. Kerr sold the office to Jonathan Williams, and went to Gosport, Owen County, where he engaged in business, and in which place his death subsequently occurred.

Mr. Williams took possession of the office in 1852, and started The Jeffcrsonian, which proved a decided improvement upon the original paper. The "Jeffcrsonian was started as an independent local, devoted to the interest of Franklin and Johnson County, and under the editorial management of Mr. Williams, made its regular weekly visits until 1854, when George Allison, a vigorous writer and practical newspaper man, became proprietor. Mr. Allison greatly improved the paper, and made it a potent factor in moulding public opinion, and it is safe to say that none of his numerous successors in Franklin, ever gave the people a more satisfactory or lively local sheet, than The Jeffcrsonian, between the years 1854 and 1862. In the latter year Mr. Allison entered the army, and during his absence the paper was regularly issued by his brother, Harvey Allison, who spared no pains to make it what it, purported to be, the republican organ of Johnson County. The Jeffcrsonian continued to be published under the management of Mr. Alllison, until the spring of 1882, at which time John F. Moses became editor and proprietor. He sold it the same fall to Henry Holt, who ran the paper quite successfully, until 1886, when the office was purchased by D. W. Barnett, the present proprietor, by whom the name was changed to The Franklin Republican, by which it has since been known.

The political complexion of the paper, as indicated by the name, is decidedly republican, and is a live local sheet, devoted to the interests of Franklin and Johnson County, and fearless in the discussion of the leading political and public questions of the day, it will compare favorably with any other county paper in the state. Mr. Barnett is a trenchant writer, an experienced newspaper man, and has already greatly increased the circulation of the Republican, and secured a liberal advertising patronage. The paper is a six-column quarto, neat in its mechanical make-up, and the only republican sheet at this time in Johnson County.

The Star of Hope was established in 1853, by W. T. Hatch. After issuing it one year, he changed the name to The Star, and in 1855 sold out to E. W. Jeffreys, who published it as a political sheet, under the name of The Republican, until 1857. In that year it was purchased by George Allison, and by him merged into the Jejfersonian.

The Franklin Herald was founded in 1859 ^v a snydicate of democratic politicans, with Henry J. Sharp as editor, who was afterward succeeded by M. R. Slater. The Herald was designed as a political sheet, in the interest of democracy, and under the editorial control of Mr. Slater, who was a writer of average ability, and a shrewd politician, it soon became the recognized party organ in Johnson County. Slater was a practical printer, and in its mechanical appearance, the Herald ranked among the best papers ever published in the city. The office was destroyed by fire in 1861, after which the county democracy purchased a new outfit and revived the paper, with Slater in charge as editor and publisher.

Fearless in its advocacy of party measures, the Herald made many enemies during the early years of the war. In 1863, the office was mobbed by a detachment of Pennsylvania troops, who had been informed by some one unfriendly to the editor, that the paper was being conducted in the interest of the Confederacy. The work of the mob was complete. All the office material was thrown into the streets, the presses were destroyed, and for some time thereafter no efforts were made toward reviving the paper. Subsequently, Charles Patterson, a local printer, refitted the office, and resurrected the paper under the name of The Johnson County Press, which was published until about the year 1869, or 1870, John M. Farley becoming editor and proprietor in 1867. Mr. Slater took editorial control in 1870, and changing the name to The Democratic Herald, continued the publication until 1878, at which time the office was purchased by W. S. Bliss.

In the meantime, December, 1876, Mr. Bliss, at the solicitation of certain local politicians, who were not pleased with the course pursued by the regular democratic paper, started an opposition sheet, to wit: The Democrat, an eight-column folio, which was regularly issued until 1878, when both papers were consolidated under the name of The Herald Democrat. Mr. Bliss was a superior printer, and came into control of the paper, well fortified with many years' experience in the field of journalism. He was also a fair writer, and got out a very neat and readable paper, but failing to make the venture financially remunerative, he disposed of the office in June, 1879, to G. E. Finney and Luther Short, and retired from the business. Messrs. Finney & Short adopted the simple name, The Democrat, by which their paper should be known, and continued as partners until April, 1886, at which time Mr. Short purchased the entire interest and became sole editor and proprietor. Shortly after purchasing the paper, Mr. Short refitted the office with over $2,500 worth of presses and material, and by studying the wants of the people and giving them an ably-edited and dignified paper, has succeeded in securing a large list of subscribers, besides doing a lucrative advertising business. The Democrat is in size a six-column quarto, a model of neatness in mechanical appearance, and fearless in its advocacy of democratic principles. It is manly and dignified in the discussion of the leading questions of the day, remarkably free from the personal abuse with which the columns of so many local partisan sheets abound.

The Jacksonian. - This paper was started about the year 1880, by M. R. Slater, and, as indicated by the name, was designed as an orthodox democratic sheet of the old school. It was ably edited, and continued its regular visits until 1886, when Mr. Slater disposed of the office in order to accept a government position in Arizona. The last number appeared in the above year.

The Daily Press. - Several attempts have been made from time to time to run a daily paper in Franklin, but until quite recently all such ventures have proved disastrous financially. While editing the Herald Democrat, W. S. Bliss established the Daily Herald, a small folio, which, under the original management, was delivered to subscribers about three months, when James B. Wilson, an employe in the office of Mr. Bliss, became editor. Mr. Wilson continued the publication a few months, when finding his financial support insufficient to meet the expenses incident to running a daily, was compelled to suspend the paper. It was afterward revived by Frederick C. Williams, who published it at intervals four or five years, but, like his predecessor, failed to make it financially remunerative.

The Daily News, a four-column folio, established by Frank McClellan arid James Moody, made its first appearance in March, 1880. It was printed in the Democrat office, and began its career under favorable auspices, but after a few months, died a painless death, for want of proper financial support.

The next attempt in the line of daily journalism was made November, 1880, at which time appeared the first number of the Daily Argus, with N. B. Milleson and George L. Higgins, editors and proprietors. Like its predecessors, the Argus was a small four-column folio, devoted to the local happenings of Franklin and Johnson County, and like them also, its career was soon cut short by adversity, but few numbers having been issued.

The Daily Gazette was started several years ago, by Bert Fessler and George Bundy. The printing was done in the office of the Democrat, and the paper, under the joint editorship of Messrs.

Fessler and Bundy, made its appearance a few months, when the former purchased his partner's interest, and became sole proprietor. Fessler ran the Gazette a short time, when learning that a daily without patronage was not a paying investment, discontinued its publication.

The Daily Star. - The latest attempt at daily journalisim in Franklin, and by far the most successful, is the Star, established July, 1885, by Messrs. Aikens & Needham, the former an experienced typo and successful newspaper man. The Star began its career in a very humble way, and was first issued from Franklin College, in the shape of a small three-column folio. It was issued under the joint proprietorship of Messrs. Aikens & Needham, about three mouths, when the latter sold out to his partner and retired from the concern. W. W. Aikens took possession of the paper under many adverse circumstances, not the least of which was the embarrassed condition financially, but actuated by a laudable desire to succeed he issued the paper regularly, until it won recognition among the farmers and professional men, and obtained a paying circulation. He commenced with an old press, that had been used for a number of years, and type and material well worn, but as his means, would permit he improved the office, and at the end of one year moved to his present commodious quarters on Jefferson Street, which he has since furnished with an entirely new outfit of job type, presses, etc., etc. The Star is now a five-column folio, and presents an attractive appearance, with every indication of being in a nourishing condition. Its mechanical execution is good, and its lccal department is equal to any daily in the southern part of the state. Its present circulation is 700, which, with the liberal advertising patronage-, denotes its thrift as well as the energy and enterprise of the proprietor, who certainly deserves well of the public for furnishing a bright, newsy, and in every way, a readable daily paper.

In addition to the papers mentioned, was a small sheet established some time in the fifties, by Charles Patterson, who used its columns as a medium through which some very caustic personal matter was given publicity. But few numbers were issued, and the name of the paper, and nearly all the facts concerning it, have long since been forgotten. As earlv as the year 1837, Dr. David Monfort, pastor of the Presbyterian Church of Franklin, published a doctrinal pamphlet which obtained a wide circulation throughout the country. A little later was published a religious controversy between Dr. Monfort and Rev. A. R. Hinckley, pastor of the Baptist Church, touching the subject of Christian Baptism, which was also largely read. Some time during the war, Dr. Pinckney published a political pamphlet on the causes of Rebellion, and a funeral discourse of a colored man preached about the same time by Rev. Mr. Collier, of the Presbyterian Church, was published, and caused no little sensation among the church people of the city. Secret Societies. - Freemasonry was introduced into Franklin in January, 1850, at which time Franklin Lodge No. 107 was organized under a writ of dispensation, with the following members: Fabius M. Finch, W. H. Hunter, J. Edwards, J. H. Williams, S. F. McGuffin, W. C. Hendryx and A. Shaffer. The dispensation was granted by Elisha Deming, most worshipful master of Indiana, on the 1 6th day of the above month, and on the 20th day of Mav, 1850, the lodge was chartered with the following officers: Fabius Finch, W. M.; H. Hunter, S. W., and Joshua Edwards, J. W. The first officers elected were the following: J. Edwards, W. M.; S. McGuffin, S. W.: C. Hamilton, J. W; Henry Fox, secretary; P. Birchard, treasurer; Thomas Morrison, S. D.; D. Coster, J. D., and S. Lambertson, tyler. The lodge held its sessions for several years in a hall on Jefferson Street, over the store room of Mr. McCollough, but in 1868, the present hall on the corner of Jefferson and Water streets, was erected and furnished at a cost of several thousand dollars. This is one of the most commodious lodge rooms in the city, elegantly finished and furnished, and reflects great credit upon the organization. Franklin lodge has had quite a checkered experience, having passed through seasons of adversity, as well as prosperity, and is now m a prosperous condition. The following is a list of the past masters since its organization : Fabius M. Finch, Joshua Edwards, W. H. Hunter, Joseph P. Gill, James T. Jones, John T. Vawter, Henry Keneaster, William W. Woolen, Isaiah J. Armstrong, Francis J. Pusey, William B. McCollough, Columbus H. Hall, Isaac M. Thompson, Charles W. McDaniel. Officers for 1888; Elmer Walker, W. M.; J. C. Wood, S. W.; Luther Short, J. W.; J. M. Storey, treasurer; W. S. Young, secretary; L. E. Ott, S. D.; Robert Mitchell, J. D., and J. L. Davis, tyler.

Higher Degrees. - Franklin Chapter No. 65, was chartered May 21, 1867. The first officers were James C. Bennett, high priest; William A. Marrs, king, and William H. Jennings, scribe. The chapter has enjoyed a reasonable degree of prosperity. Officers for 1888: Michael Walker, high priest; R. C. Wood, king; William S. Young, scribe; J. T. Jones, capt. host.; D. D. Waldren, P. S.; Luther Short, R. A. C; Charles Byfield, first veil; A. Sauer, second veil; B. Peters, third veil; J. M. Storey, treasurer, and H. L. McClellan, secretary.

Odd Fellozvshi-p. - Johnson Lodge No. 76, was instituted January 14, 1850. After the institution, the lodge went into the nomination of officers. E. May was nominated N. G.; W. S., Johnson, V. G. ; C. C. Hamilton, secretary, and W. S. Cameron, treasurer, all of whom were elected and installed by the G. M., when the lodge was declared duly organized. At the meeting, January 15, Bros. Moore, Compton and Hamilton, were elected trustees. During the first few years of its history, Johnson Lodge grew and prospered, but at the breaking out of the war internal dissensions arose, which, for a time, seriously interfered with the success of the society. Quite a number of members left the city, others voluntarily withdrew from the order, and as there was no accessions to make up the losses, the lodge eventually became weak in numbers, and at one time the propriety of surrendering the charter, was seriously contemplated. A few faithful ones continued to meet, and, by their earnest efforts, succeeded in keeping alive the organization. The year 1867, marked a new era in its history. At that time an interest was revived, old members returned, and a number of new members were initiated. With but little interruption, the spirit of progress has since continued, and the lodge is now in a healthy condition numerically and financially, the present membership being seventy-two. The present hall was built by the lodge at a cost of $2,000. It is a well-arranged and commodious room, with the necessary ante-rooms, and occupies the third story of a large brick building, on Jefferson Street. The lodge has cash at interest to the amount of $1,500, The following are the names of the officers for 1888: John C. McNutt, N. G.; Samuel T. Fowler, V. G.; S. C. Brown, secretary; Albert B. Lagrange, treasurer; Henry N. Dunlap, conductor; George Turpin, warden; S. A. Bright, chaplain; W. H. McCoy, R. S. to N. G.; W. W. Long, L. S. to N. G.; Ed. Moorehouse, I. G.; S. Buck, O. G.; Mort Rollins, R. 'S. S.; Jacob Holstein, L. S. S.; William Riddle, R. S. to V. G.; C. N. Craig, L. S. to V. G.

Hesperian Lodge No. 12, K. of P*. - This lodge was instituted November 10, 1870, with ten charter members. The officers were: John Hogarth Lozier, V. P.; Samuel P. Oyler, W. C; W. L. Dunlap, V. C; J. F. Jelleff, R. and C. S.; R. B. Crane, F. S.; J. Beard, B.; J. Bice, G.; Levi Springer, I. S.; James C. Dunlap, O. G. The instituting officer was Charles P. Carty, G. R. and C. S., assisted bv acting grand officers John B, Ryan, G. G.; J. W. Smithers, G. V. C; W. H. Short, G. R. and C. S.; and W. H. Rail, G. I. S. The duties of the other positions were performed by the same officers. The name Hesperian was proposed by the V. P. J. H. Lozier, and unanimously adopted. The first person admitted as a member after the first meeting, was J. Frank Pusey, who is still a member of the lodge. Of the charter members, five brothers, Beard, Ovler, Jelleff, William L. and J. C. Dunlap, remain. The others have located elsewhere, and some are not now members of any lodge. At the January session of the G. L., in 1871, brothers Lozier, Ovler, Beard, W. L. Dunlap, Jelleff and Crane, received the rank of P. C, in accordance with the laws then in force. The first representative was J. H. Lozier, and John Beard was the first P. C, recognized by the G. L. for any official position. At the same session of the G. L., at which he was admitted, W. Hazzleton, G. C, appointed him as G. I. S. J. H. Lozier was afterward elected as a P. G. C; Samuel Oyler became such by virtue of his service, and William L. Dunlap became Junior P. G. C. at the end of his term as G. C.

Number 12 had an uninterrupted growth until the financial panic of 1873-5 struck the country and the lodge at the same time. From that -time a season of adversitv continued for about five years. In the meantime, Indianapolis Division No. 2, of the uniform rank, which had been organized with C. J. Many as commander, hearing of the demoralized condition of No. 12, gave an entertainment in Franklin for the benefit of the lodge. From that time the real prosperity of the lodge began; petitions began to pour in three and five at a time, and scarcelv a meeting passed for more than a year after at which applications were not received. The lodge has made commendable progress, and is now free from debt, with an active membership of 174 The large and commodious hall on East Court Street, in which meetings are held, was purchased in 1881 ; it is in size, 50x70 feet, elegantly furnished, and with other lodge property, represents a value of $1,500. . . ,

But few deaths have occurred since the organization, and but little sickness has afflicted the brethren. They are a healthy and hardy set of men, and no one who has seen them in rank and hie would have a contrary opinion after witnessing their parades. J. F. Jelleff, P. C, has always been considered the father of the lodge. Others especially prominent in lodge affairs during the early days of its history, were: J. C. Dunlap, John Beard, Samuel P. Oyler, and Rev. John Hogarth Lozier, the last two being men of wide reputation throughout the United States.

The officers of Hesperian Lodge for the term ending December, 1888, are: Robert A. Brown, P. C; Benjamin P. Brown, C.C.; William Featheringill, V. C; J. B. Payne, prelate; W. E. Lane, K. of R. S.; James R. Fleming, M. of E.; Harry Duncan, M. of F.; J. A. Swem, M. at A.; Joseph P. Smith, I. G.; John Jackson, O. G. Present membership, 174.

Sam Oyler Division JYo. 2g, Uniform Rank K of P., a higher degree of the order,. was instituted August, 1886, with twenty-eight members, a number which has since increased to thirty-four. This is one of the best disciplined divisions of the Fourth Regiment Indiana Brigade, and stands second to no other division in the state. It is composed of the leading young men of Franklin, and is an organization in which the city, as well as the lodge, feels just pride. The officers for 1888 are: John H. Tarlton, sir knight captain; Samuel B. Eccles, S. K. Lt.; Benjamin P. Brown, S. K. herald; Jesse Overstreet, S. K. G.; Elmer Walker, S. K. S.; William Featheringill, S. K. recorder; I. L. Duncan, S. K. treas.; J. M. Storey, inspector general, and Dr. D. H. Miller, surgeon of the Fourth Regiment, are members of Division No. 29.

Knights of Honor. - Franklin Lodge No. 1726, was instituted August 12, 1880, and chartered on the 19th day of the same month, with the following members: H. C. Allison, Milton G. Alexander, S. C. Brown, John F. Bullock, Rufus D. Black, John Carson, Samuel H. Clem, George G. Creasy, William L. Dunlap, Homer J. Hall, Richard M. Johnson, John H. Martin, William H. McLaughlin, William O. Peters, Edward W. Pierce, John M. Rosen- "burg, William H. Smith, A. Shaffer, John C. Wood and Samuel Yager. The organization is in a flourishing condition, numbering at this time twenty-three members. There has been but a single in the lodge since its organization.

Robinson Lodge, Knights and Ladies of Honor, was instituted April 13, 1 88 1, by Grand Protector Robinson, with twenty-one members, a number which has since increased to thirty. The

While not as strong numerically as formerly, the assembly is still in the enjoyment of a reasonable degree of prosperty, numbering among its members some of the leading laboring men of the city. Franklin Lodge No. 100, I. O. G. T., was organized October, 1886, with thirty -two charter members. The first officers were: Edward Baney, W. C. T.; P. H. McGlade, P. W. C. T.; Mrs. James Moody, W. V. T.; Elijah Sexton, treasurer; W. A. Carpenter, secretary; Mrs. W. A. Carpenter, financial secretary; Rev. Mr. Bright, chaplain; William Phillips, marshal, and Thomas Foley, lodge deputy. Present officers: Gabriel Moran, W. C. T.; Mrs. Emma Foley, P. W. C. T.; Lizzie Solenberg, W. V. T.; Frank Fowler, chaplain; Alonzo Bergen, secretary; Jane Misner, financial secretary; Edward King, marshal, and Stephen Gooden, L. D.

G. A. R. - A Grand Army Post No. 1, of the district of Johnson, was instituted in Franklin, on the 28th da}' of August, 1866, with the following charter members, to-wit: John R. Fessler, WilJiam S. Young, Thomas B. Wood, James C. Dunlap, S. W. Martin, Robert S. Parr, H. P. Mullikin and Freeman P. Williams. S. W. Martin was chosen commander, and for about two years the post grew and prospered, the roster at one time containing the names of about seventy members. Later, dissensions arose, which, with a general lack of interest on the part of the members, finally led to the disorganization of the post.

10, 1887, with twenty members. The officers are : Lydia Brown,, president; Margaret Green, S. V. P.; Julia Dunlap, J. V. P.; Mary Luyster, chaplain; Mai. Hall, treasurer; Lucia Storey, secretary; Ida Overstreet, conductor; Macia Knohe, assistant conductor; Lavina Brown, guard; and Maggie McCaslin, assistant guard. The corps has now an active membership of twenty-six.

Building, Loan and Saving Association, of Franklin, was organized under an act of the General Assembly, providing for such associations, and incorporated May 28, 1883, with the following stockholders: J. C. Smith, Isaac McLaughlin, W. M. Neal, Charles Byfield, John H. Tarleton, Henry Holt, W. H. McLaughlin, N. C. Allison, J. M. Dunlap, C. W. McDaniel, B. P. Brown and R. M. Johnson. The objects of the association as stated in the articles of incorporation, are as follows : the " accumulation of funds from the savings of its members, to be loaned among themselves and such other persons as the board of directors determine, for use in buying houses and lots and making such other investments as they may deem advisable." The capital stock was fixed at $200,000, divided into 1,000 shares of $200 each, the same to be managed by a board of directors elected by the association. The association has proved very successful, and quite a number of buildings, principally dwellings, have been erected during the last rive years.

Wotneti's Christian Temperance Union. - A potent factor in developing the temperance sentiment in Franklin, is the Women's Christian Temperance Union, organized in the fall of 1885, with about ten or twelve members. Mrs. Mary Hamiltom was the first president. Since its organization, the membership of the society has largely increased, numbering at this time, thirty-five.. It is composed of the best ladies of the city, who will, no doubt accomplish the good for which this organization was designed. Meetings are held semi-monthly, at the headquarters in the basement of the court house, and a course of literary entertainments relating to the subject of temperance is sustained. The officers for 1888, are as follows: president, Mrs. Nellie Dungan; vice presidents, Mrs. Anna Reece, Mrs. Mollie Dupont, Miss Eva Jones, Mrs. R. J. Thompson and Mrs. Henry Ryers; secretary, Mrs. Lizzie Dunlap; treasurer, Mrs. Fannie Bergen.

Town'S

-Smith & Telson. Boots and Shoes: Younce & McLaughlin, E. R. Moore, James Gilson, Daniel Davis, Demaree & Draper, A. Whitesides, Henry Wyle. Books and Stationery: Yager & McCoy. Agricultural Implements: Duncan & Byers, Jacob Mullendore, Branigin & Tucker. Furniture: E. P. Randall, Dudley Peak. Notions: Baumgart and Axt. Jewelers: P. H. McGlade, Charles Beck, H. Bishop, Charles Frame. Merchant Tailors: A. Carpenter, Young & Kelley, H. Hieronymous. Harness: Alonzo Bergen, A. Shaffer, Frank Snow. Meat Markets: Brown & Son, Mc Colly, William Drake & Son, Randel & Fisher. Millinery: Mrs. Ramdall, McCollough & Todd, Lizzie Hazlett, Mrs. Henikin, M. Reese, Mrs. Caslin. Livery: James Lee, M. Hazlett, A. G. Vance, Jud Stewart. Dealers in Coal: J. M. Dunlap, A. B. Colton. Restaurants: Jordan & Pettiford, Hellerick & Wilson, Skoski. Photographer: A. G. Hicks. Feed and Wood: William Chambers.

Smiley, John Craig, Hellerick & Wilson, Jeff McClain, William Stewart, William Hays. Sewing Machines: W. Mendenhall, W. Lamasters. Cigars and Tobacco: James V. Sebern, Jeffery, the latter manufactures cigars. Horse Dealers: Jacobs Bros. Horse and Cattle Dealers: Powell & Powell. Marble Wrorks: McCollough & Todd, William Green. Carriage Makers : Hite and Clark. Poultry Dealer: A. Green.

Edinburg. - Situated in the southern part of Blue River Township, on the J., M. & I. Railroad, near the boundary lines of Shelby and Bartholomew counties, is the city of Edinburg, the second place in commercial importance in Johnson County. In the midst of an exte nsive district unsurpassed for fertility of its soil, and surrounded by large and well improved farms, the owners of which have become rich and prosperous, Edinburg has become the center of trade for a large community, and has attained prominent rank in commercial matters among the towns of central and southern Indiana. Occupying, as it does, a beautiful site on the bank of Blue River, and encompassed by a flourishing agricultural region, it seems to have obtained the kindest favors of fortune. The history of the town dates from the earliest settlement of the county, and upon its site were made some of the first improvements ever attempted in Johnson County. Among the earliest settlers in the village and vicinity, are remembered John Campbell, who located about half a mile to the southeast; Adam Mowe across the line in Bartholomew County; Isaac Collier, John Adams, Lewis Bishop, and Alexander Thompson, on the site of the town, all of whom -came to the county as early as the year 1821. John Holland came in the latter part of 1821, or early in 1822, and located a home within the present limits of the town, and about the same time Joshua Palmer settled a short distance west of the village, and became the owner of land. The town is situated in Section 34, Town 11 north, Range 5 east, and occupies parts of the tracts of land purchased from the government in 1820, by Alexander Thompson, John Campbell, and Abram Lee.

" It is uncertain," says Judge Banta, " when the town of Edinburg was laid out; but from all the evidence that has been adduced, it would seem it could not have been later than in the spring of 1822. It is hard to reconcile this date with certain records in existence, but so many of the old men, during the past twenty years, have asserted their confidence in a date not later than the "one given, that it would seem to be safe to follow it. Lewis Bishop and Alexander Thompson were the proprietors of the place. They early saw that a town would be a necessity to the country which was destined to grow up around them within a few years, and determined that the necessity should be supplied on the banks of Blue River. The lands surrounding it for many miles were of the finest quality, and the ' rapids ' in Blue River afforded a splendid mill site, and so the town was located."

The original plat, consisting of twenty-seven blocks, sixty-three lots, was filed for record in the year 1825. The part laid out by Lewis Bishop lies in the southwest corner of the east half, north- West quarter of Section 34, Township 1 1 north, Range 5 east, and the part laid out by Alexander Thompson, lies in the northeast corner of the West half, southwest quarter of the same section. Subsequently the plat was enlarged by addition, by William Hunt and Isaac Collier, and the whole, consisting of 1 1 1 lots, was recorded on the 26th day of April, 1834. The plat, as recorded, shows the following streets running east and west: Plumb, fifty feet wide; Main Cross, sixty feet; Center Cross, thirty feet, and Campbell, fifty feet. The streets running north and south are : Main, sixtynine feet wide; Pleasant, fifty feet; Walnut, forty-seven feet, and Holland, thirty-six feet.

Say§ Judge Banta: " The new town seems to have had recognition frpmthe start. Booth and Newby, merchants, in Salem, Ind., determined on opening a stock of goods, suitable to the wants of the back-woods, at some point on Blue River, and selected Edinburg as the place. Alexander Thompson was accordingly employed to build them a suitable store-room for the purpose, which he did in 1822." The house was a diminutive log structure, and stood about eighty feet south of Main Cross, on Main Street, and' in the fall of the year, William R. Hensley, agent for Booth & Newby, brought a boat load of goods up the Blue River, to the mouth of Sugar Creek, and on Sunday the boys went down and carried the goods up to the store on their shoulders. This was the first stock of goods exposed for sale in both township and county. Mr. Hensley appears to have carried on a fairly successful business for some vears, exchanging his merchandise for such articles of traffic as the county afforded, such as ginseng, deer skins, deer hams, etc., large quantities of which he hauled to Salem, thence they were marketed at Louisville and other points on the Ohio. In the meantime, other improvements were being pushed forward, and " by the fall of 1822, the village contained four families, whose log cabins were scattered over a considerable tract of ground in the midst of the native forest."

Among the earliest residences erected in the new town, were those of Isaac Collier, and John Adams, on Main Cross Street. Patrick Cowen on Main Street, Gavin Mitchell, where the Central Hotel now stands, and James Thompson on Walnut Street. These were all log buildings of the most primitive pattern, and were finished with lumber, manufactured by the old whip saw process. Between the years 1823 and 1830, the following persons secured lots and became residents of the town : John Bishop, Hiram Smith, Thomas Hewson, John Givens, T. Pittman, Israel Watts, J. Hunt, John McGinnis, W. C. Cline, W. Martin, H. JerrelLG. Early wine, John Englebright, P. Runkle, N. Ritchey, Otto Lyman andothere, the majority of whom improved their respective ' purchases, by erecting dwellings and other buildings. The second in the place was opened about the year 1825, by Israel Watts, who offered for sale a miscellaneous assortment of merchandise in a small frame building on the west side of Main Street, which had been erected the year previous. A little later Otto Lyman and John Givens engaged in merchandising in a small building, which stood on the lot now occupied by Thompson's Bank, corner of Main and Main Cross streets. The building had been previously used for a cabinet shop by William Cline, an early settler in the town, and one of the first mechanics. Messrs. Lyman and Givens put up an addition to the house and for a period of five or six years carried on a very successful business. Booth & New by continued their store about ten years, and in July, 1826, Messrs. Gwinn & Washburn, began merchandising. George B. Holland went into business in July, 1828, and a little later Austin Shipp and Timothy Threlkeld were licensed to vend merchandise, and about the same time Simon Abbott " in addition to the right to retail " foreign and domestic goods " added spirituous liquors also." These mercantile establishments were highly prized by the early settlers, as the nearest market

The first mechanic in Edinburg, was Benjamin Collier who erected a blacksmith shop, where the Moffet Bros, drug store now stands, Main Cross street, as early as the year 1824. He was a Pennsylvanian, but came here from Ohio, and did the principal part of the work in his line, for several years, earning the reputation of a skillful mechanic. He subsequently abandoned blacksmithing and engaged in the milling business, being the pioneer mill builder of Johnson County. As already stated, William Cline was an early mechanic. He settled in the village about the year 1823, and at once erected a small cabinet shop, and engaged in the manufacture of furniture. He was an expert workman and soon found ample opportunities for the exercise of his skill, in making chairs, bedsteads, bureaus, etc., for the early settlers, the majority of whom, previous to his arrival, were content to put up with furniture of their own rough manufacture. Mr. Cline's business increasing, he was soon compelled to hire additional help, and for a year or two gave employment to one or two hands. George Earlywine was perhaps the second blacksmith, he came as early as 1827, purchased lot No. 1, in Hunt's addition, and worked at his trade for several years.

The growth of Edinburg during the first eight or ten years of its history, was ouite slow, to account for which several reasons have been cited. Prominent among these reasons was the wild and unsettled condition of the county, and the prevalence of sickness which periodically visited the few settlers along the various water courses. Many of the pioneers suffered severely from various forms of malarial diseases. Considering the condition of the county this could hardly have been otherwise. "The soil largely composed of decaying vegetable matter was shut out from the healthful sunshine by the dense shade of an almost unbroken forest, and being saturated with moisture, it was a fruitful source of aerial poison." Blue River, obstructed by fallen trees and an accumulation of driftwood, becoming little better than a stagnant pond in the heat of the summer months, added largely to the other sources of disease. The new comers thus exposed were poorly housed, and were too often careless of even the protection they might have had. The water they drank was often but little better than the drainage of the surface, and their diet was limited in variety, and frequently confined to articles not at all promotive of health. Under these circumstances it is not at all surprising that Edinburg and vicinity, early acquired the reputation of a sickly climate. But a few years

-of well directed industry served to remove these fruitful sources of disease. The channel of the river was cleared, drifts were burned, and the dense growth of weeds and wild pea-vines destroyed by cultivation of the soil. The removal of these various causes of disease had a gratifying effect upon the village, and it early became the nucleus of a very flourishing settlement, as well as the chief source of supplies and distributing point for a large area of Johnson, Shelby, Bartholomew and Brown counties.

The growth of the town during the first twenty years of its history, however, was quite slow, but as the population of the country increased, business grew and developed with the demands of the times. According to the statement of a well-known local authority, the town, in 1845, numbered about 250 inhabitants, but the construction of the Madison Railroad that year, gave new life to the place, and within a comparatively short time, the population was increased more than two fold. The road marked an important era in the history of the village, and it soon became the distributing point for a large number of towns in central and southern Indiana, among which were Danville, Mooresville, Gosport, Spencer, Bloomington, Shelbyville, Knightstown, and other villages between Indianapolis and Louisville. It early became the leading grain and pork market of the central part of the state, and as a mercantile point was for some years the principal place of traffic between Indianapolis and the Ohio River. During its period of prosperity, the merchants found it exceedingly difficult tp keep, up their stock, and from thirty to forty wagons could be seen in a single day unloading goods, grain, etc., at the stores and warehouses. This spirit of prosperity continued several years, but eventually subsided, owing to the completion of the railroad to Indianapolis, and the consequent gravitation of trade to that city.

To go back to the beginning of the town and give a true detail of its various business enterprises, where they commenced, and by whom conducted, is a task beyond the power of the writer to accomplish. Several mercantile establishments were opened in an early day, and, in addition to the business men already mentioned, the following may be classed among the leading merchants from 1836 to a later date, to-wit: A. C. Thompson, Harvey Lewis, Thompson, Fogarty & Givens, Austin Shipp, John Walsh, Frost & Valentine, J. C. Valentine, Walsh & Deming, and Walsh & Sergeant.

Incorporation. - Of the original incorporation of Edinburg, but little is now known, as the early records of the town-are not accessible. It is supposed to have been effected as long ago as 1835, under the law governing the incorporation of towns and villages, but the local chronicler is authority for the statement that it failed to meet the approbation of the people, and consequently was abandoned, after a few years' trial. It was afterward revived, and under wise municipal regulations, the town has since grown and prospered. The interests of the little city are looked after and governed by a board of trustees, a marshal, clerk, treasurer and attorney. The officers at this time (1888), are as follows: trustees. A. W. Winterberg, J. D. Fee, and Nathaniel Movvney; marshal, George Roth; clerk, Matthew Duckworth; treasurer, Thomas L. Richardson; attorney, James H. Dorsey.

The Postoffi.ee. - It was a strange and pathetic sentence of Dr. Johnson, when he said : " We shall receive no letters in the grave." There is no power in that silent domain to appoint postmasters; no communication open, and no mail contracts can be made with the proprietor of the grim passenger boat.

The Edinburg office was established as early as the year 1823 or 1824, with Gavin Mitchell as postmaster. It is said that for safe keeping, he carried the few letters that came to the village in his hat, and would frequently deliver them at church, the only occasion when the settlers of the community would congregate. This fact led a local poet of a later day, to apostrophize somewhat after the following fashion:

Hotels. - Among the earliest improvements of Edinburg, was the pioneer inn which only differed from the ordinary cabin of the' settler, in that its hospitalities were dispensed to the traveling public at a stipulated price. The presence of numerous land buyers and home-seekers rendered places of entertainment necessary, and to accommodate all such, Thomas Carter, as early as 1826, received license from the board of county justices, to keep a tavern in the village of Edinburg. At the March term of 1827, Patrick Cowen received the like privilege, and in May following, Louis Bishop took out a license. About this time, or perhaps a little earlier, one David Stipp, appears as a tavern keeper in a small building which stood on West Main Street. Another early hotel stood on the lot now occupied by the residence of Mrs. Robbins. W. P. Sims, about the year 1846, built a large frame hotel on the corner of Walnut and Thompson streets, which, for a number of years, was the principal place of public entertainment in the town. The Gait House, a two-story frame building, east of the depot, was built some time in the forties, by Joseph Hagerman, who ran it success- iully several years. It has been used for hotel purposes ever since, and is now kept by Mrs. Armstrong. The Central Hotel, the leading house in the city at this time, was built a number of years ago by J. L. Toner, who originally designed it for a business house. It is a large three-story brick structure, conveniently located near the depot, on Main Cross Street, and has the reputation of being one of the best stopping places in Johnson County. The building was converted into a hotel several years ago by John Snepp, who purchased the property for the purpose, leased it to Joseph Cox, who was the first landlord. Mr. Strahmier succeeded Cox and ministered to the traveling public a short time. The building was afterward purchased by Thompson & Mutz, who remodeled it at considerable expense - adding all the necessary modern improvements." The present landlord is M. R. Coleman.

Industries. - In the year 1826 or 1827, James Thompson availed himself of the splendid water-power on Blue River opposite Edinburg, and took steps to secure the right to erect a mill at that place. A jury, summoned under the law, made the condemnation required, and immediately thereafter Mr. Thompson, in partnership with Isaac Collier, commenced building a saw- and flouring-mill, which was soon completed and in operation. This mill was highly prized by the citizens of the village, and for a number of years furnished nearly all of the flour and lumber used by early settlers of a large area of Johnson, Shelby and Bartholomew counties. Mr. Thompson's business proved remunerative from the beginning, and, in order to supply the great demand created bv the constantly increasing population of the country, he was afterward obliged to enlarge his facilities for grinding and sawing. This he did about the year 1835 by rebuilding and thoroughly remodeling the mill, and supplying it with new and improved machinery. He continued the business with success and financial profit until 1850, at which time it became apparent that a mill of larger capacity was required to meet the demands of the trade. Accordingly, in that year, he erected a large four-story, brick structure about fifty feet from the old building, and began the manufacture of flour upon a more extensive scale. This was the largest and best mill in Johnson County, and one of the best at that time in the state. After operating it for a few years, Mr. Thompson rented the mill to his sons, and, later, John A. Thompson purchased the property and became sole proprietor. Under the management of the latter the business rapidly increased, and during the war the annual sales amounted to over $30,000, a part of which was realized from flour furnished the Government. The business of the mill continued to increase in the years that followed, and during the interim between 1866 and

1872, a larger amount of flour was shipped from Edinburg than from any other town in southern Indiana. In the latter year the mill was entirely destroyed by fire, entailing a loss upon Mr. Thompson of over $60,000. Mr. Thompson immediately rebuilt a much larger mill which, furnished with the latest improved machinery for the manufacture of flour by the roller process, represents a capital of over $100,000. The building is a large six-story brick and stone structure, the main part 50x80 feet in size, and is by far the largest and best mill in Johnson County, and one of the finest in the state. The capacity is 200 barrels per day, and the flour, which has a wide reputation for its superior quality, is shipped to all parts of the United States. Mr. Thompson operated the* mill until his death, since which time the business has been managed by members of his family.

Distilleries. - Among the earliest industries of Edinburg, was a distillery, a short distance north of the town, erected as long ago as the year 1835, by Otto Lyman. He invested considerable capital in the business, and manufactured a good brand of whisky, which was marketed by wagon at Louisville to Cincinnati and other points on the Ohio. Owing to the small price of whiskey, and the cost required to put it upon the market, Mr. Lyman's venture did not prove financially remunerative, and he was compelled to abandon the business about the year 1842. A second distillery was started about the year 1849 or 1850, by a stock company, which carried on a small business for some time, where the starch factory now stands. The enterprise afterward passed into the hands of Dellard, Ricketts & Co., who enlarged the buildings and increased the capacity, by supplying additional appliances for the manufacture. It was in operation until 1861, at which time the large stock of whisky was sold and the business abandoned.

Tannery. - The early settlers of Johnson County were obliged to rely very largely upon their own resources for many articles of daily use, among which was leather. This was first manufactured in limited quantities, by the settlers themselves, but later, tanneries were started in various parts of the county, one of the first of which appears to have been located in Edinburg as early as 1837 or 1838, by Pulaski Runkle. Mr. Runkle made a good quality of leather, and followed the business with fair success for several years. He found ready sale for all he could manufacture, but soon abandoned the business on account of the low prices, occasioned by competing tradesmen.

Hominy Mill. - About the year 1857, Theodore Hudnut erected a mill in the southeastern part of the town, and began the manufacture of hominy. A Mr. Bradley afterward purchased an interest which he subsequently sold to M. C. Tilford, who, in partnership with Hudnut, under the firm name of Hudnut & Tilford, operated the mill until its destruction by fire, some time in the sixties. After the fire a building on Main Street, opposite the Central Hotel, was secured, and supplied with the necessary machinery, and the manufacture resumed by Mr. Tilford was continued some time longer. Mr. Tilford afterward abandoned the manufacture/^ hominy, and fitted up the mill for grinding flour, but was prevented from engaging in the latter enterprise by a large fire, which completely destroyed his building. In the meantime, Mr. Hudnut began the manufacture of hominy in Terre Haute, where he now has the largest mill of the kind in the west.

A second hominy mill was erected in Edinburg in the year 1871, by J. L. Toner, who invested $15,000 in the enterprise. The building is a substantial brick structure, stands on the east side of the railroad, and was used for the manufacture of hominy exclusively but a few years. Mr. Toner spared no money or pains to make the enterprise successful, but his business not coming ^p to his expectations, he finely abandoned it, and, in 1883, sold the building to Thompson, Schooler & Co., who converted it into a flouring mill. This mill is now one of the best on the line of the T M & I R. R- It is supplied with full roller machinery, manufactures both flour and meal, and has a daily capacity of 150

The second flouring mill in Edinburg was erected early in the fifties by Hall & Legate, who carried on a successful business until 1865. It was then purchased by J. L. Toner, who enlarged the capacity to 150 barrels per day, and did a prosperous business until the building burned in 187 1. The mill stood in the northwest part of the town, and was erected and completed at a cost of $23,000. Mr. Toner suffered a loss of $20,000 by the fire, halt of which was covered by insurance. . . ^

Woolen-mill. - A woolen-mill was built in Edinburg about the year 1863, by a stock company composed of citizens of the town. The buildings stood near the starch works, and the factory, when in operation, required the work of about seventy men The articles manufactured consisted principally of jeans, yarns ^flannels, blankets, satinets, for all of which there was a good demand, by the wholesale houses of Indianapolis, and other cities. The factory was in operation at Edinburg until about the year 1877, when the better to increase the business, the company moved the machinery to Columbus, and used it as a factory at that city. A part ot the old building is still standing, used by the starch factory.

Furniture Factory. - Not the least in the list of Edinburg's manufacturing enterprises in the past, was a furniture factory, established about the year 1868, by a stock company, under the name of the Edinburg Furniture Company. A capital, variously estimated at from $17,000 to $20,000, was invested, and a large twostory brick building, 50x70 feet in size, was erected on Main Cross Street, east of the railroad, and furnished with all the modern machinery and appliances required by first-class establishments of the kind. The factory was established under the most favorable auspices, and was soon running to its full capacity, giving employment to about fort)' skillful workmen, many of whom came from a distance. The original company sold out in 1870, to another company composed of Lewis Nichle, David Mullendore and G. A. Mutz, who enlarged the facilities of the factory, and operated it very successfully until its destruction by fire in 1873- The loss to the company wras about $16,000, only $6,000 of which was covered by insurance.

Foundry. - A foundry was started in Edinburg as early perhaps, as 1S68, by a gentleman from Dayton, Ohio, name unknown, who erected for the purpose, a good building, a short distance west of the depot. It included a machine shop, and gave employment to several mechanics, whose principal work consisted in building threshing machines, and doing general repairing. It proved a remarkable addition to the manufacturing enterprises of the town, but like several factories and mills alluded to, was destroyed by the fire fiend, after a few years' successful operation.

Planing-milh.- - The first movement in this direction was made some time in the sixties, by Charles Nicholson, who put up a twostory frame building east of the depot, which he operated as a planing-mill several years, and later, added machinery for the manufacture of sash, doors, mouldings and all kinds of building material. It was operated successfully for several years. Mr. Horsford, the present postmaster of the town, operated a planing-mill for some time, and in connection therewith, did a fairly successful business for about six months, manufacturing pearl and cracked wheat.

Maley & Go's Sazu- and Planing-mill. - Prominent among the manufacturers and lumber dealers of Indiana, is Henry Maley, who began the saw-milling business in Edinburg about the year 1878. After operating his mill until 1883, he effected a partnership with Jacob Mahley, under the firm name of Henry Maley & Co., which soon became widely and favorably known as one of the most successful lumber firms doing business on the J., M. & I. Railroad. The first mill was burned in 18S6, and as soon theretowns. 537 after as circumstances would permit, a second mill was erected, which at this time, is by far the largest and most successful enterprise of the kind in Johnson County. A brick planing-miU was afterward built which, with the saw-mill, gives employment to about thirty hands. In addition to the production of their own mill, the company operate a large lumber yard, to supply which requires nearly all the lumber manufactured by twelve other mills in different parts of the county. Large shipments are made to the New England states, principally to Boston, in which city the company have an agent who does an extensive business. The enterprise at Edinburg represents a capital of nearly $100,000, and is justly ranked as one of the largest and most prosperous manufacturing enterprises of Johnson County.

Machine Shop. Payne Bros. - This enterprise was established about the year 1884, by P* J- Elliott, who operated for two years as a repair shop, selling out at the end of that time to E. Payne & Bro. In addition to repairing all kinds pf machinery, the firm is now preparing to make machinery, and will soon enlarge the building for the purpose. They are first class machanics, and the shop promises to remain a pernament fixture to the town.

The Edinburg Pump Factory was established in 1888, and although in its infancy, bids fare to become one of the leading manufactory establishments of the place. Preparations are being made to erect a suitable building, and the indications point to a large and successful business. Several men are employed, and the pumps which, for simplicity and durability, cannot be excelled, have already won a good reputation among dealers.

Edinburg Pulley Eactorv, one of the latest manufacturing enterprises of the town, was established in 1888, by a stock company, for the manufacture of a late improved wooden pulley, invented by William R. Fee. The company is composed of well-known business men, and a large amount of capital has already been invested. The brick building east of the depot, formerly used for a planingmill, has been secured, and filled with the necessary machinery, and a number of skillful mechanics, under the personal superintendency of Mr. Fee, have already more than they can do to fill orders from all parts of the country.

Blue River Starch Works. - This mammoth enterprise, one of the largest and most successful of the kind in the United States, dates its history from the year 1868. It was established by a stock company, composed of Samuel Cutsinger, M. C. Tilford, E. K. Horsford and Joseph Fisher, who jointly invested in the undertaking about $40,000. The business proved successful beyond the company's most hopeful expectations, and but few years elapsed until it became necessary to enlarge the facilities of the works in order to supply the great demand which the starch created in the markets. The buildings were enlarged and otherwise improved from time to time, new machinery was added, and the factory soon became the largest of the kind in the state. In April, 1885, the buildings caught lire and were burned to the ground, entailing a loss upon the company of about $75,000. They were at once replaced by larger and better buildings, in which a capital of $90,000 was invested. The main structure is brick, two stories, 300x150 feet in size. The warehouse is 40x100 feet, besides which there are several large corn cribs, sheds, and an office separate and apart from the factory. Various changes have been made in the company from time to time, Samuel Cutsinger being the only one of the original stockholders now connected with the enterprise. The original capacity of the mill was 400 bushels of corn per day, and at the time of its destruction in 1885, 1,000 bushels were required each day. The capacity at this time is 1,500 bushels per day, or nearly 500,000 bushels per year, which represents 7,500,000 pounds of starch as the yearly product of the factory. To manufacture this enormous amount, the work of seventy men is required. Shipments are made to all parts of the United States, the best markets being in the eastern states where the company is represented by agents.

Edinburg Benevolent Society. - Impressed with a laudable desire to promote the moral welfare of the community, by providing a place of public worship in Edinburg, and feeling unable to accomplish the work without a concert of action, the citizens of the village, pursuant to notice, assembled on the 22d day of September, 1833, for the purpose of adopting suitable plans and obtaining subscriptions for building a meeting house. At this meeting a proposition made by Jacob Beck, Esq., that a " Benevolent Society " be formed, was acted upon, after which an organization was effected and a constitution was adopted. The object of the society, as set forth in the constitution, " is to promote the cause of Christianity, and the happiness and comfort of ourselves and the rising generation around, by building a meeting house in or near Edinburg, for the use and benefit of all denominations, giving preference to none, and doing justice to all; and such other things as we may deem practicable and proper for the good of mankind in general, and especially for the good of society around us."

To carry out the object of the society, a building committee composed of the following persons, was appointed, to-wit : Judge Joseph Dawson, R. B. Treadway, Gavin Mitchell, D. D. Lawler, James Thompson, Israel Watts, Timothy R. Threlkeld, Jacob

Barton, Isaac Marshall and John Lewis, and at an ensuing meeting H B. Hunt, Roland Williams. Jacob Barton, Jacob Beck and Nathan Kvle, were elected a board of trustees. Jacob Beck, Tames Thompson and John Lewis, were appointed a committee to draft plans for the proposed building. These were reported in, due time, after which the contract was awarded to W. K. .barnsworth who agreed to erect the house as per plans and specifications, for the turn of $475- A lot on Main Street was purchased and in due time a neat frame building was completed and ready for occupancy. It stood in the rear of Dr. Rush s office, and, until 1846, was the only house of worship in the town, haying been used during that time by all denominations. It answered well the purposes for which it "was intended, but ceased to be used as a meetin e Place after the erection of other houses of worship, lhe building is still standing, and is now used as a carpenter s shop.

W' OMFcUo-Aif, the younger sister of Masonry, and _«£cdy second in its beneficent influences upon mankind, was UkW in Edinburg, in March, 1850, at which hme Herndon Lodge No. 05, was instituted under a dispensation from the Grand Muter of. Indiana. A charter was granted in July of that year, and the members whose names appear first upon the records^ ^^^ lowing: I. S. Jell, Stewart Wilson, Edward M. Hubert, A. Uark, I 1. Hunt, I. P. Shipp, Ephraim Adams, I. R. Hancock, A. J.

Alexander, Peter Delony, John Wallace, Samuel R. Collier, and George W. Grayson. Among those who became members a little later may be named: Adam Mutz, James E. McGuire, William P. Pudney, William McCartney, Henry Pudney, Robert Chase, and S. H. Steinbarger, all of whom were initiated within one year after the lodge was instituted. Until 1885, meetings were held in a rented hall, on Holland Street, but in that year the third story of Thompson's large brick business house, on the corner of Walnut and Main Cross streets was purchased, and fitted up for lodge purposes. This is now the finest lodge room in the county, being handsomely furnished and elegantly frescoed, the latter work costing several hundred dollars. Herndon Lodge has had a career of great prosperity, and it is still in a very flourishing condition, numbering among its members many of the leading citizens of the city and adjacent country.

The lodge has moved along uninterruptedly, nothing having occurred in its history that would be unusually interesting in general. The local history of the lodge is, of course, pleasant in its recollections. The present membership exceeds the average, and is composed of the representative men of the town. Prominent among these are, past chancellors W. C. Wilson and George W. Downs, the latter, the first representative of No. 42. Aff members of the grand lodge who have attended its sessions for the last few years, know brother Wilson. His connection with the standing committees of finance and accounts, state of the order, and others, and also his ability as a debater and public speaker, have given him much prominence in the grand lodge. C. O. Lehman, a former P. C. of the lodge, but now a non-resident, also attained considerable reputation in the grand lodge. He was an active member, and held office as one of three grand lodge trustees, consecutively from 1878 to 1881.

United Order of Honor. - A lodge of the U. O. H., was instituted at Edinburg on the 15th day of May, 1885, with the following charter members: S. L. Burton, J. T. Burton, John M. Tindel, E. M. Hardv, M. R. Coleman, Rose B. Hardv, Leonard Compton, Elijah Dehart, M. H. Mitchell, C. E. Whitesides, O. R. Stivers, William C. Caruthers, Frank G. Dodge, May J. Kinsey, J. W. Turner, D. McDonald, William Ashby, James H. Sweet, Lewis Woods, J. D. Fee, Austin H. Wright, Minerva F. Mitchell, Harriet F. Bay, Margaret Dehart, John Treon, John Sichler and L. C. Phillips. The object of this order is mutual protection and insurance, and the cultivation of a social spirit among its members. It is gaining rapidly in popular favor, and has lodges in nearly every town of any considerable importance in the county. The Edinburg lodge at this time numbers forty-two members.

Building and Loan Associatio)i. - The first association of this kind was organized a number of years ago, and continued in existence until within a comparatively recent date. The present Building, Loan and Savings Association was incorporated with a subscribed capital of $22,000, in shares of $200 each. The capital stock of the association was fixed at $100,000, in 500 shares, each representing $200. The object of this association, as stated in the articles of incorporation, is as follows: "The accumulation of funds from the savings of its members, to be loaned among themselves and any such other persons as the board of directors may determine, for use in buying houses and lots, building and repairing houses, and make such other investments as they may deem advisable." The duration of the society was limited to a period of eighteen years, and the names of the original members are as follows: A. Mutz, Henry Maley, Michael Moffett, Adolph Dalmbert, H. M. Holmes, T. E. Valentine, R. C. Williams, W. M. Park, D. L. Deming, William M. Howell, Owen Moffett, G. E. Mavfield, E. M. Hardy, George Wilbur, WT. H. Dow ell, George J. Roth, Jr., A. C. Deupree, Nathaniel Mooney, S. S. Broughton, William P. Rush, W. F. Joyce, C. S. Fisher, Stephen Schon and C. W. Davis.