Johnson County, Indiana - Chapter 8, 1888 (part 1 of 2)

Chapter 8

County Organization - Organic Act - Locating County Seat - Sale of Lots - Public Buildings - Methods of Doing County Business - Finances - Poor Expenses - Creation of Townships - Elections - County Officers - Roads - Medical Societies, Etc.

HE County of Johnson was organized under an act of the Indiana legislature, passed at Cor/don, in December, 1822. The territory then established as a new county, had for some time been a portion of Delaware County, and was between Shelbv County on the east and Morgan County on the west. The proceedings that led to the formation of thenew county were spiced with much that is interesting. Petitions were obtained that contained, so it is alleged, the names of many who had long been numbered with the pioneer dead, and of others whose existence was seriously doubted. The principal mover in this matter was George King. He came to the county early in the fall of 1822, and bought the land on which Franklin is now situated. It seems that he came here for the express purpose of speculation, and bought this particular ground because it was a good site for a town. Immediately after acquiring the land he went to work on his plan for a new county. What influence he was able to bring on the legislature, that was sufficient to secure success for his plans, is not now known. It is possible that he had the arts of the modern lobbyist. Judge Banta in his " Historical Sketch," gives v.n interesting account of it. The act was finally passed after much controversy among the advocates of the various opposing schemes. The following is a full text of it :

Section i. Beit enacted by the General Assembly of the State of Indiana, That from and after the first Monday in May next, all that part of the County of Delaware contained in the following boundaries, to-wit: beginning at the southwest corner of Section thirty-four, in Township eleven north, of Range five east, the same being the southwest corner of Shelby County; thence running north with the line of said count}' to the southeast corner of Marion County; thence west to the northeast corner of Morgan County; thence south on the line of said county to the township line dividing Townships ten and eleven; thence east to said line to the place of beginning - shall constitute and form a new county, which shall be called and designated by the name of Johnson.

Sec. 2. That John Parr, of the County of Washington; Adam Miller, of the County of Jackson; John W. Lee, of the County of Monroe; James Gregory, of the County of Shelby, and Archibald McEwen, of the County of Bartholomew, be and they are hereby appointed commissioners for the purpose of fixing the permanent seat of justice for said county, agreeably to the provisions of an act entitled, " An act for fixing seats of justice in all new counties to be laid off." The commissioners above named or a majority of them shall meet at the house of John Smiley in said new county, on the first Monday in May, and proceed to the duties assigned them by law.

Sec. 3. That the said county shall enjoy all the rights, privileges and jurisdictions, which, to a separate county, »do or may properly belong.

Sec. 4. It shall be the duty of the sheriff of Bartholomew County to notify the commissioners above named, either in person or by written notice, of their said appointment, and the county commissioners of the County of Johnson shall allow him such compensation therefor as they shall deem just and reasonable, to be paid out of the county treasury of said county.

or at any other place said court shall adjourn to, until suitable accommodations can be provided at the permanent seat of justice of said county; and so soon as the said courts are satisfied of that fact, they shall adjourn thereto, after which they shall meet and be permanently held at such seat of justice.

Sec 6. ^The agent who shall be appointed to superintend the sales of lots at the said seat of justice shall receive ten per centum out of the proceeds thereof, and also of all donations made to said county, which he shall pay over to such person or persons as may be appointed by law to receive the same for the use of a library for said county.

Sec 7. The board of county commissioners of said County of Johnson shall, within twelve months after the permanent seat of justice shall have been selected, proceed to erect necessary public buildings therein.

Sec 8. The same powers, privileged afid authorized, that are granted to the qualified voters of the County of Dubois and other counties named in an act entitled, " An act incorporating a county library in the counties therein named," approved January 28, 1819, to organize, conduct and support a county library, are hereby granted to the qualified voters of the County of Johnson, and the same power and authority therein granted to, and the same duties therein required of, the several officers and the person or persons elected by the qualified voters of Dubois County, and the other counties in the said act named, for carrying into effect the provisions of the act entitled, " An act incorporating a county library in the County of Dubois," and the counties therein named, according to the true intent and meaning thereof, are hereby extended to, and required of, the officers and other persons elected by the qualified voters of the County of Johnson.

Gov. Hendricks commissioned John Smiley sheriff, and appointed the 8th of March, 1823, as election day, when the voters were to meet at the houses of Hezekiah Davison on Blue River, and Daniel Boaz on White River, for the purpose of electing two associate judges, one clerk and one recorder. At that time Israel Watts and Daniel Boaz were chosen judges, Samuel Herriott clerk, William Schaffer, recorder, William Freeman, John S. Miller and James Ritchey, commissioners. The commissioners met according to law on the 2nd Monday in May. On the same day three of the five men appointed to locate the county seat, met and proceeded to examine the riva] places that were striving for the honor, as well as profit, of having the new capital of the county. The contest was mainly between a situation at the mouth of Sugar Creek, on land owned by Amos Durbin, and at the mouth of Hurricane, on the land of George King. It is needless to say that the latter was successful, and the county seat was located on the southwest quarter of the southeast quarter of Section 14, Township 12 north, Range 4 east. This land was donated to the county by King, in addition to eleven acres lying between it and Young's Creek. On the suggestion of Samuel Herriott, who, it is said, was an ardent admirer of Benjamin Franklin, the new town was named for that illustrious American.

The commissioners appointed John Campbell county agent, whose duty it was, among other things, to "receive good and sufficient deeds of conveyance for any lands that may have been given to the county." The town was soon laid out, and lots sold. Many of these items concerning the early history of Franklin will be found in another part of this work, and it will be unnecessary to repeat them here. By permission of Judge Banta, to whom the publishers are under many obligations, the following is taken from his Historical Sketch of Johnson County. It is told so aptly that his words are copied verbatim:

" The first sale of lots was advertised for the 2d day of September, 1823, and on that day the county agent, provided with 4 whisky and paper' of the value of $1.18^, for which the county paid, sold a number of lots adjoining the public square; and, on the 14th day of the same month, he exposed to sale other of the town lots. The principal sales were on the south and east sides of the square, and prices ranged from $19 for the lot on which the jail stands, to $40.56 for No. 61, which lies immediately south of the jail lot. The brush was grubbed out of the public square by Nicholas Shaffer for $6.58, and David McCaslin, Nathaniel Poor and Jacob Freeman performed labor in and about, clearing the square of growing timber, while the citizens of the place voluntarily rolled and burned the logs of nights.

" It was made the duty of the commissioners to partition the county into convenient townships, and this duty they must have performed soon after being introduced into office, for, from the August election returns for 1823, it appears that three townships had been organized - Blue River, Nineveh and White River. Blue River seems to have been confined to so much of Congressional Township 11, Range 5, as is in Johnson County. White River extended over all the territory now included in White River, Pleas-

Public Buildings. - "It is uncertain, at this time, when the contract for building a court house was let, but it is certain that the house was not ready for occupancy in March, 1824, but was ready in October of the same year. William Shaffer, the county recorder, who was by occupation a carpenter, undertook the work, and it is safe to assume that it was begun in the spring of 1824, and that the contract was let by the first board of commissioners, but for what price is now unknown. The late Thomas Williams, however, who was the owner of the only yoke of oxen then in or aboiit the new town, drew tlTe logs to the building site for $1. The new court house was in keeping with the poverty of the county. It was two stories high, was built of hewed logs, and a broad wooden outside stair led from the ground up to the second floor, which was the court room. This was furnished with a table, two 'splint-bottomed chairs, one for the judge, and one for the clerk,' with wooden benches without backs for the accommodation of lawyers, jurymen, litigants and spectators. This first cqurt house was built upon the lot situate immediately in the rear of the lot on which the bank buildings are erected. A jail was not yet provided. It is in memory, that, before a jail house was up, a prisoner, who was under sentence of imprisonment, was sent from an Edinburg justice's court, and that John Smiley, in lieu of a better place of confinement, chained the culprit to a stump in the public square his allotted time. But the chain and stump did not serve the purpose in all cases, for, in 1826, we find the board of justices of the county making allowances out of the county treasury for the guarding of prisoners. A contract for building the jail must have been let some time in the first half of 1826, to Samuel Herriott. At the July term of the board of justices, it was ordered that the contractor put two windows in the jail, one in each end, seven inches by eighteen, and that the logs for the jail should be seventeen feet long instead ot eighteen, and that, instead of ceiling the 'upper loft' with poplar plank, it be 'laid down with hewed timbers nine inches thick.' From this order the character of the structure may be perceived, and further, that the material had not yet been prepared. In the following January, the board accepted the building, but there nowhere appear sufficient data to enable us to fix upon the price paid."

The method of doing county business was materially changed in 1824. Theretofore the county board consisted of but three commissioners who were elected for that purpose only, and to them was given the entire charge of the county business. In that year, however, the law transferred their business to what is termed the board of jurors. This board was composed of all the justices of the peace in the count}- who were ex-officio members of this board. This method did not remain in vogue long, as it was found to be too cumbersome and unsatisfactory. The details of the business as transacted by the board, would be of but little interest. It was generally made up of hearing road petitions, appointing viewers, overseers of the poor, inspectors of elections,, superintendents of school sections, county officers, fence viewers, constables, listers, assessors, granting licenses of various kinds, passing on claims against the county, levying taxes, selecting jurors, changing roads, and many other matters pertaining to the general business of the countv. In the light of our modern ways, some of the claims allowed, seem funny. In Judge Banta's " Sketch " is the following:

" One of $4, in favor of William Barnett, for work done on the court house, was allowed, and he was privileged to ' lift his bond filed in the clerk's office for the completion of the work to be done to court house.' Patrick Cowan and Thomas Russell were each allowed $1.50, their fees in the case of the State of Indiana vs. Richard Neal; Lewis Bishop came in for $1 'charges for keeping Richard Neal while a prisoner,' and John Barnett got 50 cents, and Joseph Hickerson $1, for standing guard over the said Richard; and John Smiley, the sheriff, got $41.10 for 'guarding, dieting,' etc., said Richard Neal, and two others, Nathaniel Bell and William Barlow. Richard Neal was proving himself an unprofitable citizen. A special term of the circuit court had been called on his account, and a grand jury impanelled to consider a presentment to be made against him, charging him with having sent a challenge to fight a duel; but the jury ignored the bill, and Richard drops out of sight, leaving these bills to be paid by the county. John Campbell, the county agent, was then allowed $2.61^ for whisky and stationery furnished for county use while agent. This whisky was for the benefit of the buyers of the town lots."

Finances. - The question of raising and maintaining a sufficient revenue for the needs of the county, and at the same time keeping taxation within moderate bounds, is one of no little importance. New counties seldom have much resource for raising public funds. It is also true that their needs are not greater than their abilities. The almost universal means of obtaining the earliest funds to meet the expenses of the county was from the sale of town lots. The land on which a county seat was located was nearly always donated to the county, and the enhanced value of this land contributed to start the public treasury in a flourishing condition. The county board would impose licenses upon certain kinds of business, and assess a tax that in this later day seems meager indeed. But they were relatively high, and this payment was often a matter of much concern to the citizens.

The first tax levy, as revealed by the records now at hand, was in 1826, when the following was made: Each horse, 37^ cents; each ox, 18^ cents; gold watch, $1; silver watch, 25 cents; each white male person twenty-one years old, 50 cents; each license to retail foreign merchandise, $15; each tavern license, $5; each ferry license, $2, and each covering horse license was placed at $2. It is probable that this total revenue derived from taxation at the beginning of the county did not exceed $300. In 1826, the treasurer's report shows less than $400 paid out, with $29 in the treasr ury. In 1830, the amount had increased to about $1,000. With the continued growth of the population and increased value of property, the amount of taxes has increased until the present time. Of course there were some fluctuations as temporary expenditures increased or diminished, but there has been a general increase from the first. During the war the bounties and the relief funds raised aggregate revenue to what was then deemed unusual excess, but the ordinary expenses have long since then raised the amount to a figure far in advance of war taxes. In 1865, the total amount raised was $105,529.54. Even these figures seem moderate when compared with the present.

Poor Expense. - There is no question that so closely concerns people, in relation to revenue, as the dispensation of public charity. The first provision made by law was for the appointment of overseers of the poor in each civil township. The law prescribed their duties as follows: " * * * every year to cause all poor persons who have or shall become a public charge, to be farmed out on contract, to be made on the first Monday in May, annually, in such manner as said overseers shall deem best calculated to promote the public good. Provided, That nothing herein contained shall prohibit any overseer from receiving and accepting propositions at any time for the keeping of the poor, and others who may at any time hereafter become a count}- charge." This method was not sufficient to meet the growing demands of society, though perhaps it was well enough for the more primitive days in which it was in vogue. Late in the decade of the forties, and early in the fifties, the farming out process was discarded in nearly all parts of the state, and the poor who had become almost wholly dependent upon the county, were placed under the charge of one man on a farm, either rented or purchased for that purpose. This was soon found to be a more practical way of managing these matters, and the system was enlarged and improved. Large and commodious buildings have been erected suitable for maintaining the indigent. The item of expense chargeable to the poor is one well calculated to challenge the consideration of the tax-payer. For this single item alone, Johnson County expended in the year 1887, about $10,000. Of this sum, $2,500 was chargeable to expenses at the poor farm, while the balance was paid out through the medium of the township trustees, who now have distribution of funds to such persons within their respective townships as are, in their judgments, worthy objects of charity.

One of the latest advancements in this direction is the establishment of orphans' homes in many of the counties. These are designed to rear and educate orphan children that are practically abandoned to the world. It is one of the most worthy channels in which public generosity and charity can be directed. That the influences surrounding an inmate of the poor-house are bad, at the "best, there is no doubt, and to bring up' children in the midst of the examples that must inevitably confront them in such a place, would be not only bad policy, but must result in lowering morality. Johnson County has kept fully abreast of the times on these questions. In August, 1884, the county commissioners purchased one acre and a half of land at Hopewell, and established there an orphans' home, the price paid being $900. Here all children between the ages of six and sixteen, of sound mind, are kept, that are county charges. The contract of keeping them is let to the lowest bidder, the present price being 30 cents per day for each inmate. The board appointed Emmeline Bridges, matron. There are now forty-four inmates.

Later Public Buildings. - The first court house and jail have already been mentioned. A second court house having become necessary, the county board, in March, 1830, decided upon another. The new building was to be of brick, forty feet square, two stories high, with two doors, a suitable cupola, and a foundation of rock. The contract was let in due time to Samuel and John Herriott, for $1,427, and it was to be completed in two years. The contract for finishing the building inside was let to William Shaffer, for $349.50. The entire cost was thus nearly $1,800, and when completed was considered good, and for the time no doubt it was. This building served all the purposes for which it was erected, until 1849, when early in the morning of May 18th it was destroyed by fire. There was comparatively small loss of the records, or public documents. At the July term "folio wing this, the board awarded a contract to Edwin Mav, for the erection of a new court house, for where discloses the amount received for it. Edwin May, the contractor, became known in more recent years as the architect of the new state capitol building. John Elder was the architect of the court house for this county, and for his plans and specifications was allowed $50.

By something approaching to fatality this building was also destroyed by fire on December 12, 1874, after service of nearly a quarter of a century. To accommodate the county officers, and as a shelter for the records, which were nearly all preserved, a temporary frame building was erected on the south side of the public square. This was Johnson County's fourth court house, if it can properly be termed such. It continued in use until the present handsome structure was erected, though it was condemned by the grand jury as unsafe for the preservation of the records. At the March term, 1879, the matter of building was taken under advisement. In April, following, the commissioners went to the towns of Washington and Columbus to inspect the court houses there. Plans and specifications were filed at the May term by no less than ten different leading architects. At a special term in July, the plans of George W. Bunting were adopted, and in September the contract was let. The bidders were: McCormack & Sweeney, $81,850; W. H. Meyers, $79,987; Kammacher & Denig, $108,000; Farman & Pierce, $79,100. The last, being the lowest bid, was accepted, but subsequent changes and additions made the total cost of the building about $100,000. It was completed, and in December, 1881, was accepted by the commissioners. The first floor has eight rooms, and are occupied by the auditor, clerk, sheriff, recorder and treasurer, with smaller additional rooms for each. The second floor contains court room, county superintendent's room, petit and grand jury rooms, consultation room and judge's private office. On the third floor are four rooms used for storage. The building is of the modern style of architecture, and of brick and stone. It is a durable structure, and one the citizens of the county may well feel proud of.

Jails. - The first jail was built in 1826, but what sort of building it was, there is now but little means of telling. Its duration, too, is another uncertainty. That it remained in use until 185 1 is more than improbable, though a hasty perusal of the records failed to find that another had been built in the meantime. At the January term, 185 1, the commissioners awarded the contract for building a new jail to John Craig and Joseph Parris, for $4,800. The jailor's house was to be two stories high, and to be built of stone. The plans and specifications for this building were elaborate, and it was to be completed on or before March 1, 1S52. When done, it was a very creditable structure, and continued in use until the present one superseded it. The jail now in use was modeled after one at Danville, Ind., and was ordered at a special session of the board in July, 1867. James F. Wiley was authorized to contract and procure from a competent architect two drawings and plans and specifications like in all respects to the jail at Danville. The auditor was directed to advertise the time and place of letting the contract, in the Cincinnati Enquirer and Indianapolis Herald. The contract was awarded to McCormack & Sweeney, of Columbus, for $39,900. It was completed and accepted at the August term, 1870.

Organization of Townships. - The first townships created were White River, Blue River and Nineveh. It is probable these three were created at the first term of the county board, as that was the usual way at the organization of new counties. The absence of the records for the first few years of the county prevents a definite statement of the date when these townships were created. Their probable boundaries as described by Judge Banta have already been given. From the best information at hand it seems that Franklin was the next township organized. This was most likely done within the first two years of the county's history. Hensley was next, and was organized at the March term, 1827, of the county board, bounded as follows : Beginning at the southwest corner of Section 31, in Township 11, Range 3, on the county line, thence on the county line east to the southeast corner of Section 31, Township 11, Range 4; thence north on the section line to the northeast corner of Section 6, Township 11, Range 4; thence west on the line dividing Townships 11 and 12 to the northwest corner of Section 6, Township 11, Range 3; thence south of the county line to the place of beginning. Pleasant Township was created by order of the board, May 4, 1829, and included all the land now in both Pleasant and Clark townships. Union was authorized on July $, 1830, and was bounded as follows: Beginning at the northwest corner of Section 31, Township 13, Range 3; thence east on the section line to the range line dividing Ranges 3 and 4; thence north one mile; thence east two miles; thence south to the southeast corner of Section 32, Township 12, Range 4; thence west to the county line; thence north to the place of beginning.

In 1832, at the March term, the boundaries of all the seven townships were somewhat changed, and in May, 1838, Clark Township was organized, with about the same territory as it now has. From that time on there were no new townships created until March, 1881, when Needham was formed out of the eastern part of Franklin, thus making a total of nine civil townships in the county.

entirely complete, are yet valuable for reference. The returns for 1824, are entirely gone, but the others are all preserved, excepting an occasional township.

County Organization

November, i860. - Independent democrat, Douglas and Johnson; democrat, Breckenridge and Lane; republican, Lincoln and Hamlin; union, Bell and Everett. ID D R U

Collectors of County Revenue: Robert Gilcrees, 1826; Ira Woodruff (sheriff), 1827; John Thompson, 1831; David Allen (sheriff), 1835; Hiram T. Craig, 1838; Arthur Mullikin, 1839. Office abolished in 1840.

County Surveyors : The following is only a partial list of the surveyors of Johnson County: James H. Wishard, Thomas Williams, Franklin Hardin, John S. Hougham, Hiram Graves, G. M. Overstreet, P. K. Parr, W. W. Hubbard, Joseph J. Moore, William M. Elliott, Wilson T. Hougham, Daniel A. Leach, Benjamin R. Ransdell.

Avenues of Travel. - The roads traversed by the pioneer settlers of Johnson County, were first the Indian trails, which were soon succeeded by neighborhood roads. After the organization of the county, roads were viewed and established by authority of the board of commissioners. These primitive roads were little more than a path blazed out, by which the traveler might, with some degree of confidence, go from one settlement to another without fear of losing his course. These roads often traversed low, swampy lands, and, in order to make them passable, were cross-laid with logs and rails, and were generally known as " corduroys."

After years of experience with dirt roads the legislature authorzed the construction of plank roads. Such roads were built in many of the counties, but were soon abandoned as impracticable. This was followed by an act of the legislature, authorizing the construction of gravel roads. This act was followed by the rapid construction of pikes, and later the county has built a large number of free gravel roads, which at present lead out from all the principal trade centers of the county. Johnson County is traversed by two lines of railroad. The J., M. & I. Railroad, which traverses the entire length from north to south, was built late in the forties, the first train arriving at Franklin, Wednesday, August 18, 1847. The Fairland, Franklin & Martinsville, a branch of the C, I., St. L. & C. Railroad, furnishes an outlet to the east and west, and thus the people are supplied with the necessary competition to make transportation cheap.

Medical. - Of the early history of the profession but little can be said. The incidents of early practice were similar to those of all western communities. The exposures and hardships incident to the practice in the pioneer days of Johnson County were such that it is now a matter of astonishment that there were those who were willing to sacrifice themselves to alleviate the suffering of their fellow man.

The almost impassable condition of the roads, the exposure to inclement weather, and wild animals, and the uncertainty of remuneration for their services, made the life of the pioneer physician an unenviable one.

Among the prominent early practitioners may be mentioned the names of James Ritchey, Mack Smiley, A. D. Sweet, Samuel Webb, J. H. Donnell, W. W. Thomas, J. H. Woodburn, Samuel Thompson, Dr. Winslow, John McCorkle, J. P. Gill, Lewis Mc- Laughlin, James McMurry, Dr. Leavitt, John Scott, Dr. Fish, Dr. Charleton, Dr. Bush, George Riddel, - Finnimore, L. J. Woollen, Dr. Pinkney, Cardell, A. R. Miller, Johnson, J. J. Cole, Southworth, Jordon, S. Voris, J. D. Vannuys, Mitchell Bedford, Runnell, Robert Taggart, «A. T. Davis, W. C. Hendricks, Cook, J. H. Thompson and F. B. Day.

It has long been recognized by those engaged in the practice of the healing art, that a union of effort and mutuality of council are essential to success. This suggested to the members of the profession in Johnson County the necessity for the organization of a society in which members may meet, and by a comparison of individual experiences, deduce the most practical methods. With such an object in view, a medical society was organized in 18S0, with Drs. Z. Carnes, H. Carter, T. C. Donnell, J. S. Farris, H. J. Hall, J. T. Jones, J. A. Marshall, A. Miller, P. W. Payne, J. J. Saddler, B. Wallace, W. A. Webb, and J. C. Wood, as charter members. The following are the names of those who have taken out license to practice in the county since 1885.

William A. Bridges . stands among the most substantial farmers, stock-raisers and business men of this part of Indiana. He was born October n, 1850, son of George and Martha (Clark) Bridges. The father was a native of Kentucky, born May 4, 1800, and departed this life August 23, 1872. He came to Johnson County in the autumn of 1829, and settled in Hensley Township, about two miles west of Trafalgar, Ind. Here he settled on a farm and engaged in the arduous duties of clearing it up. His boyhood and youth were spent on a farm. His education was extremely limited, for hard work was such a necessity in those days but little time could be devoted to schooling, but by reason of a large amount of business,- and by much mingling with men, he acquired a good practical education. He was thoroughly conversant with all things that pertained to his business, and on all general affairs he was well informed. He was honorable and upright in all his dealings, a consistent member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Few men accomplished as much in life, and succeeded in establishing as complete confidence in the minds of all as he. His popularity extended to all with whom he had business connections, and he was one of those few who have the scarce and precious qualities of making a great deal of money in a way that added to, rather than detracted from, their popularity. In 1825, he was united in marriage with Matilda Forsythe. This union was blessc 1 with seven children, four boys and three girls, four of whom are now living, two boys and two girls. The mother of these children was born June 3, 1806, and departed this life March 14, 1848. On August 16, 1848, he was united in marriage with Martha Clark, a daughter of William and Margaret Clark. This union was blessed with the following children: Marion F., born June 20, 1849; William A., our subject, October 11, 1850. The mother of these children was born June 8, 1828. She was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, who in this, as in all the other affairs of life, has been her husband's faithful companion, and who has always proved herself that willing helper which the true wife and mother ever is. She departed this life, July 30, 1856. On October 16, 1856. he was united in marriage with Eliza A. Prather, a daughter of Thomas and Mary Prather. This union was blessed with the following children : Dillard, Adaline, Henry, Emma, Eliza

A., and Andrew. The mother of these children is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Bridges was always a staunch democrat, and at the time of his death was the owner of 810 acres of fine farming lands in Hensley Township, which was improved. Mr. Bridges' position in Johnson County was a fitting reward for the work and toil of a lifetime, and shows conclusively to all beginners on life's journey how much more honorable, useful, and satisfactory is a life of industry, exertion, and honesty. Our subject, William A. Bridges, was reared on his father's farm in Hensley Township; he received a good common school education, and at the age of twenty-one years began the struggle of life for himself as a farmer, and has always been one of the live men of Johnson County. Improvement and progress has always been his watchword, and it has always been his ambition to keep fully up with the advancing civilization of the nineteenth century. One needs but to see his beautiful home and the many surrounding improvements to become convinced that he has kept thoroughly abreast with the spirit of the times. October 9, 1870, he was united in marriage with Alice M. Hunter, a daughter of Singleton and Harriet (Clemmer) Hunter; the father was a native of Kentucky, of German descent, born December 18, 1829; he came to Indiana in 1840, and settled in Hensley Township, where he remained until 1885, when he emigrated to Kansas, where he now resides. The mother was a native of Ohio, of German descent, was born April 11, 1830, and departed this life, December 15, 1882. This union was blessed with the following children: Otis, born July 9, 1871; Harry, December 12,1872; Daisy, October 22, 1877. The mother of these children was born October 27, 1850. Mr. Bridges, wife, and the two boys, are members of the Missionary Baptist Church. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. lodge, No. 181, at Trafalgar, also a member of the K. of P. lodge, No. 12, at Franklin. In politics he has always been a staunch democrat, and is the recognized leader of the young democracy of his township. He is now the present county commissioner of district No. 1. After his nomination for this office, he was appointed to fill a vacancy of eighteen months in the same, caused by the death of E. W. Morgan, and was elected at the following November election of 1886, by a handsome majority. He now owns no acres of fine land, in Hensley Township. In connection with farming, he has given considerable of his time to the breeding of short-horn cattle. His liberal support of churches, schools, and all landable enterprises are characteristic of the man. Such men build up a community, and erect for themselves imperishable monuments of gratitude which will live for many years after they have passed away. Socially,' Mr. Bridges is a thoroughly good fellow, entertaining all at his home, with a liberal hospitality, and makes friends wherever he goes.

Aaron V. Burget, prominent farmer and stock-raiser of Hensley Township, is an Indianian by birth, having been born in Johnson County, on the 3d day of November, 1843. His father, Valentine Burget, was a native of Ohio, and an early resident of Johnson County, accompanying his parents here about the year 1832, and settling in Nineveh Township. Valentine Burget grew to manhooc} in Nineveh Township, and in 1S39 was uniT-ed in marriage with Nancy Keaton, a native of Tennessee, and daughter of Miles and Sylvia (Butram) Keaton, of North Carolina. To this marriage ten children were born, five of whom are now living, and residents of Johnson County. Mr. Burget was a prominent citizen, and had a large circle of friends in this and other parts of the country. He died in 1885, aged seventy-one years. The subject of this sketch was reared to agricultural pursuits, receiving a good practical English education, and for some time followed the teacher's calling in Nineveh Township. He afterward abandoned the profession for farming, which useful vocation he has since carried on. On the 16th of April, 1863, was solemnized his marriage with Miss Lucinda, daughter of William and Mary (Teeters) Gillaspy. The father of Mrs. Burget was drowned in White River a number of years ago, and the mother, who is still living, subsequently married Thomas Gillaspy. Mr. Burget was a resident of Nineveh Township until 1871, at which time he purchased his present home place, consisting of 109 acres, in Section 13, Hensley Township, where he has since lived and prospered. He is a democrat in politics, and as such has held minor official positions at different times, the duties of which he discharged in a manner highly satisfactory to all concerned. He identified himself with the Christian Church a number of years ago, and is an earnest and consistent member of that denomination. Mr. and Mrs. Burget have had eight children, seven of whom are now living, viz. : Dillard A., William M., Tillas A., Alice, Nancy A., Sallie E. and Floyd E. Emma L., the fourth child, died at the age of five years.

Joseph Clark, M. D., is a native of Indiana, and was born in Bartholomew County, on the 14th day of October, 1838. His father, Thomas S. Clark, was born in the city of Manchester, England, and at an early age came to America, locating at Lebanon, Ohio, where he learned the cabinet-makers' trade. After residing at this place a number of years, he moved to Indiana, about 1823, and entered a tract of land in Jackson Township, Shelby County.

He was twice married, the first time on the 24th day of December, 1833, to Miss Martha M. Harris, of Virginia, whose death occurred in February, 1843. Four children were born to this marriage, three of whom are now living. June 15, 1843, Mr. Clark married Miss Letitia Query, by whom he had three children, all deceased. Shortly after his second marriage Mr. Clark moved to Hensley Township, and here resided until his death. In many respects Thomas Clark was a remarkable man. In early life he evinced decided taste for intellectual pursuits, and while a mere youth began the study of Latin, Greek and Hebrew, in which" he soon acquired remarkable proficiencv- His love for the classics never abated, and in old age he was able to read the Scriptures in the original tongues, Greek and Hebrew. He was a man of abstemious habits, possessed a tenacious memory, and was a believer in religion, as taught by Emanuel Swedenborg. He wras born April, 1806, and departed this life February, 1873. Mrs. Clark survived her husband several years, dying July, 18S7, aged seventy. Dr. Clark spent his youthful years on his father's farm, and received his early educational training in the common schools, supplemented by a course in Franklin College, which he attended two years. On quitting college he engaged in teaching, and was thus employed until the breaking out of the rebellion, when he enlisted in Company I, Seventy-ninth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, Col. Fred Kneffler's regiment, with which he served gallantly from 1862 until the close of the war. He participated in a number of battles, in one of which, at Murfreesboro, Tenn., he was severely wounded in the left arm by the explosion of a shell, the effect of which was to disable him for field duty. For some time thereafter he was employed as hospital steward, at Louisville and New Albany. At the close of the war he returned to Johnson County, but in the meantime, while in the government service, began reading medicine with Dr. Sloan, of New Albany. Impressed with a laudable desire to increase his knowledge of the profession, the Doctor subsequently attended lectures at Louisville and New York, and in 1867 graduated in New York, and began the practice at Morgantown, where he continued about twelve years. He then relinquished the practice and engaged in the commission business at Indianapolis, which branch of trade he continued successfully until 18S4. In that year he returned to Hensley Township and began farming, which he has since carried on, owning at this time a fine farm of 240 acres. The Doctor was married January 8, 1 87 1, to Miss Harriet Skeggs, of Morgan County, daughter of Zachariah Skeggs.

ley Township, is a native of Johnson County, Inch, and son of F. M. and Mary ( Woollard) Coleman. He was born on the Coleman homestead, in this township, on the 5th of March, 1856, and grew to manhood on his father's farm, attending the common schools at intervals in the meantime, in which he obtained a practical English education. On the 29th day of December, 1876, was solemnized his marriage with Miss Frances Paskins, daughter of John Paskins of this county, a union blessed with the birth of the following children: John F., Chelcie, George and Mary E. Mr. Coleman has always lived upon the place where he now resides, and as a farmer and stock-raiser, has been very successful, ranking among the enterprising and progressive citizen, of Hensley. He is a man of pleasing address, is popular socially, and numbers his friends by the score in the community and elsewhere. Politically, he is a supporter of the democratic party, and as such has taken an active interest in local politics. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to Lodge No. 358, at Morgantown.

Warren Coleman. - The paternal ancestors of the subject of this sketch came originally from Germany, and settled in America in the time of the colonies. Jacob Coleman, grandfather of Warren, fought for the cause of liberty during the War of the Revolution, and his son, Jacob, Jr., served with distinction in the War of 1812. The family early emigrated to Ohio, in which state the subject's father was married in 1809, to Miss Elizabeth Thomas, an aunt of the late General George H. Thomas, who bore such a distinguished part in the late War of the Rebellion. Jacob Thomas farmed for a number of years near the city of Cleveland, and, in 1839, came to Johnson County, Ind., where he lived until his death in 1873. Flis wife survived him many years, dying March 25, 1883, at the advanced age of ninety-five years. They raised to manhood and womanhood a family of eight children, of whom three are now living: Mrs. Sarah Loyd, Mrs. Amanda Hammond and the subject of this biography. Warren Coleman was born near the city of Cleveland, Ohio, on the 12th of July, 1816, and until his twentyfourth year, resided in his native state. He accompanied his parents to Johnson County, in 1839, anc^ until his marriage, which was solemnized on the 16th day of March, 1847, with Miss Lucy Gillaspy, he remained on the home place looking after his parents' interest. Shortly after marriage, Mr. Coleman settled in the northwest part of Nineveh Township, and from time to time purchased land until he now owns a farm of 123 acres, the greater part of which is under a high state of cultivation. He has been a very industrious man, and, as a democrat, served three years as commissioner of Johnson County, besides having held minor official positions. His wife was a daughter of Joseph Gillaspy, one of the early residents of the township. She died August 21, 1879. ^rand Mrs. Coleman raised a family of seven children, whose names are as follows: Francis M., William D., George W., Susan, Lucy J., Amos* and Jacob.

Daniel W. Cooper, an old and reliable citizen of Hensley Township, and one of the few pioneers now living, is a native of Wayne County, Ky., and dates his birth from the 13th day of November, 1823. His parents, Abraham and Elizabeth (Collett) Cooper, were natives of Kentucky, also, and early residents of Johnson County, moving here in 1833. They raised a family of eleven children, eight of whom are still living, four residents of this county. The subject of this sketch being the oldest son, was early compelled to contribute his part toward clearing and developing the farm. Hence his educational training was of a somewhat limited character. He made the most of his opportunities, however, and by coming in contact with his fellow men in after life, obtained a fund of practical knowledge, and is now a well-informed man. September 12, 1844, he was married to Miss Ahulia Alexander, of Johnson County, and daughter of Thomas Alexander. The fruits of this marriage have been nine children, of whom the following are living: Annie A., Elizabeth, Ellen, Lavicy, Smith and Alice. Mr. Cooper has followed agricultural pursuits all his life, and now owns a well-improved farm of 140 acres. He is a democrat in politics, and a member of the Masonic order. He stands high in the estimation of his fellow men, and is one of the township's representative citizens.

James C. Core, the gentleman whose name introduces this sketch, was born in Johnson County, on the 14th day *of January, 1834. His father, Jacob Core, was a native of Ohio, from which state he emigrated to Kentucky many years ago, and there married Mary J. Forsyth, who was born at Crab Orchard, in the latter state. Mr. Core was by occupation a miller, and in addition to his trade, he was employed for some time in Kentucky, in the capacity of overseer. He came to Johnson County, Ind., in 1827, and purchased government land in Nineveh Township, upon which he lived until his death. He died a number of years ago at the age of fifty-four, and was buried in the Mt. Pleasant cemetery, where the body of his wife was also laid, she having died later at the age of sixty-four years. James C. Core has spent all his life in Johnson County, and is now one of its oldest citizens, having been a resident over fifty-four years. He grew to manhood on the farm, and in the old log school-house, lighted by a window of greased paper, and furnished with rough puncheon benches, minus backs, he obtained the rudiments of an ordinary English education. On the 25th day of February, 1856, fce was married, and immediately thereafter he began carving out a home for himself in Nineveh Township, where he continued to live and prosper until 1SS7. In that year he disposed of his place in Nineveh, and purchased his present farm in Hensley Township, a beautiful place of eighty acres, well stocked and improved'. For some time he handled stock for James P. Forsyth, and did a successful business while thus employed. Mr. Core is one of the industrious farmers of Hensley, and a popular citizen in the community where he resides. He has had ten children, seven living: Matilda E., Martha E., Maria A., George W., John, J. C. and Effie M. The oldest daughter, Matilda, married Henry Hughes, and is living in Nineveh Township. Martha E. is the wife of George W. Short.

James Forsyth, deceased. - Conspicuous among the representative citizens of Johnson County, was the late James Forsyth. Mr. Forsyth was a native of Kentucky, born July 6, 181 3, and a son of J. and Jane (Sturgeon) Forsyth. He grew to manhood's estate in Kentucky, and in 1830, moved to Johnson County, Ind., and located a home not far from the city of Franklin. He entered land in Franklin and Nineveh Township, and in time became a large property holder and a prosperous citizen. On the 1 6th day of February, 1837, he married Miss Ellen N. Ragsdale, daughter of Frederick Ragsdale, one of the pioneer settlers of Hensley Township. Mr. Forsyth identified himself with the First Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church in 1843, from which time until his death he was active in the councils of his church and foremost in every wrork to propagate religious truth. He accummulated a handsome property, but in later life met with financial reverses, which resulted in the loss of a considerable portion of his property. He was liberal in all the word implies, and his numerous benefactions for religious and benevolent purposes, attest his unbounded faith in the Scriptural maxim, that " it is more blessed to give than to receive." His church and Franklin College owe him a debt of gratitude for munificent gifts received at different times, and many who received his aid in a quiet and unostentatious way remember him as a true friend and benefactor. He served as director of Franklin College in 1875-6, and at one time was president of the First National Bank of Franklin. Mr. and Mrs. Forsyth were not blessed with children of their own, but through their kindness two children were reared, who will always bless the memory of their benefactors. Mr. Forsyth died on the 18th day of March, 1887, but Mrs. Forsyth is still living, having reached a serene and happy old age.

James A. Foster, only son of William and Francina Foster, whose sketch appears elsewhere, is a native of Johnson Count}'. lie has been a resident of Hensley Township for many years, and is one of the industrious and energetic farmers of the community in which he resides. He has been twice married, the first time on the 5th day of December, 1852, to Miss Luelia M. Clemmer, a native of Johnson County, daughter of Solomon Clemmer. Two children were born to this union, Lola and Lula. Mrs. Foster died August, 1883, and was burried in the Friendship cemetery. On the 25th of October, 1884, Mr. Foster's second marriage was solemnized with Miss Margaret Ellis, daughter of Jesse Ellis, a union blessed with the birth of one child, who died in infancy. Mr. Foster owns a well-stocked farm of 120 acres, and is in comfortable circumstances. Politically, he is a democrat, in religion, a Methodist. William Foster, deceased, was born in Johnson County, Ind. April 23, 1831. He was a son of Richard and Lucinda (Coons) Foster, natives of Virginia, and of English and German descent, respectively. Richard Foster came to Johnson about the time the county was organized, and was one of the pioneers of Blue River Township. Subsequently he moved to Hensley Township, where, for some years, he held the office of justice of the peace. He was a prominent citizen, and did much in a quiet way toward opening and developing the country. He died at a good old age, as did also his wife, and they both rest side by side in Tipton County, this state. Mr. and Mrs. Foster raised a large family, ten children having grown to manhood and womanhood, six of whom are now living, all residents of the County of Tipton. William Foster passed his youthful years in Johnson County, and was reared on a farm. August, 1850, he married Miss Francina Smith, daughter of Jeremiah and Elizabeth Smith, of East Tennessee. Mrs. Foster was born in Tennessee, on February 5, 1827, and is the mother of two children: James A., born August 11, 1851, and Minerva, born May 8, 1859, and died in childhood. Mr. Foster was one of the leading citizens and farmers of Hensley Township, and a man widely and favorably known for his many excellent traits of character. He died very suddenly of heart disease, on January 25, 1884. He was for many years an active member of the Methodist Church, to which his wife also belonged. She is still living on the home place, which is now superintended by her son, James A.

O. W. Garrett, deceased, the subject of this sketch, was a native of Kentucky, born on the 14th day of December, 1S11. He spent about thirty years in that state, and then came to Johnson County, Ind., locating in Hensley Township, of which he was a resident about twenty years, the greater part of which time was spent in teaching. He was for some time engaged in the saw-milling business in Morgan County, and at one time worked at the stone mason's trade, in which he acquired great proficiency. When the war broke out he offered his services to his country, enlisting in the Twenty-seventh Regiment Indiana Infantry, with the commission of second lieutenant of his company. Subsequentlv he was promoted first lieutenant, and as such served until honorably discharged at the expiration of his term of service. Mr. Garrett was at one time a practicing attorney, and acquired some prominence as a member of the bar of Morgan County. He was a man of broad intelligence, and for a number of years took an active part in local politics. He married, in Louisville, Ky., Miss Lucy Ann Curl, daughter of Samuel and Sinah Curl, of the same state, by whom he had two children, both deceased. Mrs. Garrett was born on the 9th dav of December, 1818. Mr. Garrett died at his residence in Morgan County, on the 8th day of February, 1876. Mrs. Garrett lives in the village of Samaria.

John Hogeland was born in Green County, Ky., now Taylor County, on the 16th day of November, 1824. His father, John Hogeland, Sr., was a native of Pennsylvania, and of French descent. He was taken to Kentucky, when ten years of age, and there married Nancy Shipp, bv whom he had twelve children, six sons and the same number of daughters. In 1833, he immigrated to Indiana and settled in Shelby County, thence one year later moved to Johnson County, locating three and one-half miles north of Franklin. About the vear 1S37, he moved to the northwest part of Hensley Township, "and lived here until 1870. For two or three years he resided in Samaria, and then moved west of Morgantown, where his death occurred at the advanced age of eighty-one. His wife servived him several years, and died at the residence of her son, in Hensley Township, being over eighty at the time of her death. Mr. Hogeland was a prominent farmer. For a period of over sixty years, he belonged to the Baptist Church. John Hogeland, Jr., subject of this sketch, was nearly ten years of age when the family came to Indiana. He was reared to agricultural pursuits, and at the age of twenty, married Miss Eliza Whitsitt, of Jennings County, Ind., daughter of John and Mary (Blankenship) Whitsitt. Shortly after marriage, Mr. Hogeland settled in Blue River Township, where he lived twenty-two years. He then returned to Hensley Township, where he has since resided, and where he now owns a farm of 270 acres, one of the best improved places in the southern part of the county. He justly ranks among the substantial men of the community, and as a farmer and stock-raiser, has few equals in Hensley Township. By his first marriage he had three children, all deceased. His present wife, whom he married in April, 1866, was Mrs. Mary J. Young, widow of J. Young, and daughter of Joseph Pratt. Mr. and Mrs. Hogeland are members of the Baptist Church.

1. J. Holeman, the gentleman for whom this sketch is prepared, is a native of Johnson County, and dates his birth from the 7th day of April, 1844. His parents were J. M. and Elizabeth (Street) Holeman, both natives of the State of Kentucky. Our subject was raised a farmer, and has followed agricultural pursuits all his life. He belongs to that large and eminently respectable class who accomplish much for the good of society in a quiet and unostentatious way, and during a long period of residence in Hensley Township, has gained the confidence and respect of all with whom he has come in contact. March 25, 1867, he was united in marriage to jVtiss Eliza J. Coleman, daughter of F. M. Coleman, and to their union have been born nine children, seven of whom are living: Nettie E., Jennie, James F., John D., Rettie, Gussie and Oris C. The names of those deceased are, Mary I., who died in her seventeenth year, and Annie, whose age was seven months. They were both laid to rest at Bethlehem Church cemetery. Mr. Holeman owns a good farm, and is in comfortable circumstances financially. He is a democrat politically, and an earnest worker in the I. O. O. F. fraternity, belonging to Lodge No. 196, Morgantown.

Jonathan Yount. - The Yount family came originally from Germany, and were among the early settlers of Pennsylvania, in colonial times. From that state the grandfather of the subject emigrated to Kentucky, and was an associate of the celebrated Daniel Boone, in leading the van of civilization into the " dark and bloody ground." He participated in many of the struggles with the Indians, and is remembered as one of the bravest of the pioneers of a time abounding in brave and daring men. George Yount, father of the subject, was born and reared in Kentucky, Shelby County, and was a farmer by occupation. He was a man of some local prominence, having held an official position in the militia service, and for some years took an active part in politics as a supporter of the whig party. His death occurred a number of years ago in his native state. The maiden name of our subject's mother was Sarah Bright. She was descended from English ancestry, and was married to Mr. Yount in Kentucky, and was the mother of four children, all living, three of them residents of Johnson County. Mrs. Yount died in Johnson County, aged over eighty years. Jonathan Yount was born Mav 3, 1828, in Shelby County, Ky., and grew to manhood in his native state as a farmer. His early educational advantages were of a meager character, embracing in all about five months' attendance at the country schools. Owing to the death of his father, the duty of maintaining the family was largely thrown upon his shoulders, and for some years he struggled hard to discharge his filial duties. October 28, 1S52, he was married in Shelby County, Ky., to Miss Eliza J. Satterwhite, daughter of Turner Satterwhite, a prominent farmer, and in i860, came to Johnson County, Ind.. settling in Henslev Township. Here he purchased land and engaged in the pursuit of agriculture, which, with stock-raising, he has since canied on successfully, having at this time one of, the best improved farms in the southern part of the county. He suffered a severe loss by fire in 1876, but immediately rebuilt, and now has one of the most commodious residences and other buildings in Henslev Township. Mr. Yount is an energetic business man, and a true type of the old-time Kentucky gentleman. He is a great lover of all kinds of innocent sports and pastimes, and an adept with the rifle, his skill in markmanship being unequalled in this part of the country. Politically, he is a democrat. Mrs. Yount died in April, 187; She was the' mother of nine children, the following of whom are living: John W., Walter L., Edwin, Charles E., George B.McC., Cordelia and Hattie O. In April, 1876, Mr. Yount married his present wife, Miss Lavina C. Smith, who has borne him four children: Harry G., Ira W., Carl and Howard H. ,,_.",.

Prof Benjamin F. Kennedy, the subject of this sketch, was born in Bourbon County, Ky., December 5, 1832 and is a son of Thomas and Mary (Kimfero) Kennedy. Paternally, Mr. Kennedy is descended from Irish ancestry, and upon the mother s side, from English. Thomas Kennedy was a native of Kentucky, and a school teacher by profession. lie came to Putnam County, Ind., in 1S36, and in 1861, moved to Johnson County and settled in Henslev Township. By his marriage with Mary Kimbro, he had four children, all of whom are living. Mrs. Kennedy died m Kentucky, in 1836, and later, Mr. Kennedy married Martha Bowles. Benjamin F. Kennedy passed his youthful years in Putnam County, Ind His educational training was liberal, attending first the common schools, and later Asbury, now Depauw University in which institution he pursued his studies three years. In 1850, he began teaching in Putnam County, and after following the profession there for six years, came to Johnson County, where he continued, first in the schools of Union Township, where he located, and later in various localities. He did much toward systematizing the schools of the county, and was the first teacher to introduce the higher branches of learning in the schools outside the county seat. Mr. Kennedy became a citizen of Hensley Township in i860, and has been here the greater part of the time since. He was for six years principal of the Morgantown schools, and for three years had charge of the high school of Trafalgar. In addition to his work as teacher, Prof. Kennedy served as county examiner of schools under the old law, and was the first superintendent elected, under the law providing for the county superintendence'. He discharged the duties of his office in an eminently satisfactory manner, and did much toward awakening an interest in behalf of educational work throughout the county. He taught his last school in the winter of 1878-79, at Union village, the same place where he began his labors in this county in 1856. Prof. Kennedy is a scholarly gentleman, and ranks among the most successful educators of Johnson County, He was married August 31, 1S61, to Miss Delilah Davenport, who has borne him two children: Millard F. and Benjamin F.

John S. Kephart is a native of Kentucky, born in the famous blue grass region, on the 21st day of October, 1S26. His parents were Samuel and Jemima (Swift) Kephart, both natives of the same state. Samuel Kephart came to Johnson County, Ind., in 1835, and settled in Hensley Township, where he lived until his death in 1885. He was over eighty years of age when he died, as was also his wife, whose death occurred the same year. They were the parents of fourteen children, nine of whom are living, six of them being residents of Hensley Township. The immediate subject of this biography was reared partly in Henry County, Ky., and partly in Indiana, being nine years of age when his parents moved to Johnson County. In the year 1S46, he enlisted in Company C, Third Indiana Volunteers, Col. Lane's regiment, for the Mexican War, and served for a period of thirteen months, during which time he participated in a number of skirmishes and battles, including the bloody engagement of Buena Vista, on the 22nd of February, 1847. He returned home in July, of the latter year, and on the 22nd day of the month was united in marriage with Miss Mary C. Tapp, daughter of William Tapp, bv whom he had eight children, the following of whom are living: Eliza Ann, Samuel, Lucy J., Catherine, Sarah and John T. Mr. Kephart began life as a farmer, and has followed his calling ever since. He served in the late war as a member of Company G, Third Indiana Cavalry, entering the service in 1861 as second lieutenant. He afterward resigned, and a little later enlisted in the Fifth Indiana Cavalry, with which he shared the fortunes and vicissitudes of war for a period of three years, holding a second lieutenant's commission during that time. Upon one occasion he was tendered the commission of major by Gov. Morton, but refused to accept it. While operating in Kentucky he was captured by Morgan's Cavalry, and for twenty-two months experienced all the rigorous treat- ment and privations incident to rebel prisons, having been for some time confined in the celebrated Libby prison pen at Richmond, Va. Among the battles in which he bore a gallant part, were: Shiloh, Franklin, Greenbriar and a number of others, besides numerous lesser engagements and skirmishes. He was honorably discharged from the service at Pulaski, Tenn., June 28, 1865, and immediatelv thereafter returned to Johnson County, where he has since resided. Mrs. Kephart died on the 16th day of June, 1867. On the 18th day of December, that year, Mr. Kephart's second marriage was solemnized with Mrs. Elizabeth Lang, widow of the late William Lang. To this marriage have been born three children : Elsie, Andrew and Rebecca M. By her previous marriage Mrs. Kephart had these children: Sarah F., Mary A. and William R. Lang. Mr. Kephart is a member of the I. O. O. F., and in religion a Baptist. Mrs. Kephart is also a member of the Baptist Church.

Joseph J. Moore, of Hensley Township, one of the old settlers and most successful business men of Johnson County, was born in said county April 29, 1831. He is the son of Robert and Elizabeth (McKinlev) Moore, both natives of Ohio. His parents moved to Johnson County in 1822, settling near Williamsburg, but later removed to Union Township, where Joseph J. was born. The other children of Robert Mooie were, John M., who died in Indianapolis, in 1886; Mary Ann, Elizabeth M. (deceased), Martha Ann, Rachel A., Robert M., and two infants (deceased). The father was one of the most prominent and useful citizens of the early days of the county, having filled, for a time, the position of associate" judge. He died in Jasper County on January 20, 1855, where he moved in 1849. Tne death of Mrs. Moore occurred June 6, 1843. Joseph J. remained at home until he was twentytwo years of age, when he started out in life. His first employment was cutting cord-wood, at which he earned his first money. Thus engaged he was called upon to teach school, after an examination had proved him to be the most able and practical, thorough English scholar in the whole community. This he followed years with marked success. He afterward served as surveyor of Morgan County, for two years, and in the same capacity for a like period in Johnson County, and as a surveyor and civil engineer he was very efficient. He entered the contest as a candidate for state senator, in 1886, but was defeated after a very bitter contest. Although Mr. Moore has been much in public life, and has contributed as much to the public good as any man in Johnson County, it is in the commercial world that his energies and talents have been employed most successfully. Few men have engaged so extensively, and have in a greater measure won by honest dealings and correct business methods, the confidence of the community. Mr. Moore was married to Miss Ermina, daughter of John H. and Sarah Forsythe, which union has been blessed by four children : Frank F., an attorney of Frankfort, Ind., is a graduate of Franklin College, Chicago School of Oratory, and Albany, N. Y., law school; Cinchona Alice, wife of E. M. French, of Frankfort, is a fine literary scholar, and a graduate of the Boston Art School; Elgin E. (deceased); Robert M., who married Miss L. E. Coleman, a native of this county, is a farmer. Mr. Moore still lives at Trafalgar, where he is extensively engaged in several lines of mercantile business, and with his estimable wife is now enjoying the fruits of a well-spent life.

G. W. Musselman. - Among the successful farmers and business men of Hensley Township, few stand as high in the estimation of the public as the gentleman for whom this biographical sketch is prepared. The Musselman family was early represented in Johnson County, and the name appears frequently in connection with the early county legislation. Henry Musselman, father of G. W., was a native of Kentucky, and of German descent. He moved to Johnson County in 1822, before the organization went into effect, and for a number of years was prominently identified with the growth and development of the country. He died a number of years ago at a good old age, having outreached the allotted three score years and ten. His wife, whose maiden name was Sarah Dunn, was also a native of Kentucky. She faithfully discharged the duties of life throughout more years than usually fall to the lot of woman, and sleeps by the side of her husband in the old Lick Springs grave-yard, Nineveh Township. Henry and Sarah Musselman had a family of ten children, seven sons and four daughters, only four of the number now living, all residents of this township. G. W. Mussselman was born on the 30th day of October, 1S26, and has been a resident of Johnson County all his life. His early educational training embraced a few months' attendance in such schools as the country afforded, and amid the rugged duties of farm life, he early learned those lessons of industry and economy by which his later years have been characterized. On the 31st day of July, 1845, he married Miss Rebecca Smyser, of Oldham County, Ky., daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Deadman) Smyser, and shortly thereafter purchased a tract of land, consisting of eighty acres, from which he in time cleared and developed a farm. He disposed of the place in 1853, and purchased the farm upon which he now resides, consisting of 280 acres. This represents the fruits of his own industry, as he began life with little capital, save a well-formed purpose to succeed. He is now one of the representative farmers and stock-raisers of Johnson Count}-, and is an intelligent and publicspirited citizen, and has been called from time to time to fill positions of trust by the people of Hensley Township. He served as assessor several terms, and for sixteen years held the office of township trustee, to which he has again been elected, a fact which attests his great popularity with the people, independent of political affiliation. Mr. Musselman is essentially a self-made man, and as such ranks with the leading citizens of the count}-. He is a sociable gentleman, and numbers his friends by the score within his own neighborhood and elsewhere. He stands high in Masonry, and politically, has always been an earnest supporter of the democratic partv. July 31, 1887, was the forty-seventh anniversary of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Musselman. They have had six children, whose names are as follows: Sarah A., wife of H. P. Durbin; Martha J., widow of J. Winchester; Ambrose F., Matilda K., Ira F. and William E., the last four living with their parents.

James K. P. Musselman, farmer and lumber-dealer, son of Henry Musselman, is a native of Hensley Township, and dates his birth from the 5th day of October, 1845. He was raised on his father's farm, and at intervals attended the country schools, in which he obtained the rudiments of an English education. When only seventeen years of age, May 2, 1861, he was united in marriage, to Miss Venelia C. Shake, who was born in Oldham County, Ky., on the 15th day of August, 1845. Her parents, J. B. and Sarah Ann (Sturgeon), were both natives of Kentucky, and of German and Irish descent, respectively. Mr. Musselman has devoted the greater part of his life to the lumber business, and at this time is quite extensively engaged in its manufacture, operating a mill which affords employment for quite a number of hands. His present force consists of twelve men, and the mill is one of the best in the county. He owns a farm also, besides a great deal of personal property, and is classed among the well-to-do citizens of Hensley. He is a democrat in all the term implies, but not an officeseeker or partisan. The following are the names of the children, born to Mr. and Mrs. Musselman: Hallie F., Walter H., Alice M., Joseph R., George and Loval H., all of whom are living. The following children are deceased: Minnie A., died August 24, 1S67; infant, died October 9, 1870, and Eddie, died August 5, 1873.

Thomas J. Musselman, deceased, the subject of this sketch, was born in Hensley Township, Johnson County, February 28, 1840, and was a son of Henry and Sarah (Dunn) Musselman. He grew to manhood in his native towmship, was educated in the com- mon schools, and early engaged in agricultural pursuits, which he followed successfully until his death. He bore a gallant part in the late war, serving three years, during which time he was with his command in many bloody battles and active campaigns. January 24, 1861, he was united in marriage with Miss America Paskins, daughter of Thomas and Delilah (Samples) Paskins, a union blessed with three children: Maiy, wife of Thomas Holeman; Hattie, wife of Andrew Bridges, and James P. Musselman. Mrs. Musselman was born 'January 6, 1842. In his later days, Mr. Musselman lived in Samaria, Hensley Township, and it was in that village that his death occurred on the 22nd day of November, 1882. Mrs. Musselman lives in Samaria at the present time.

John Paskins, deceased, was a native of Ohio, born in Brown County, that state, on the 23rd of July, 1823. His parents were Thomas and Delilah (Samples) Paskins, the father a native of England, and the mother of Brown County, Ohio. They were married in that state, and afterward immigrated to Indiana, settling in Johnson County, the subject at the time, being a small boy. Thomas Paskins was a blacksmith by trade. He accumulated a comfortable fortune, and died a number of years ago, at the age of sixty-six. His wife preceded him to the grave, dying at the age of thirty-eight years. John Paskins grew to manhood in Johnson County, and was reared a farmer, but later worked at the blacksmith trade for some years in the town of Williamsburg. He served in the Mexican War through its continuance, and in one of its engagements, received a severe wound in the ankle, the effect of which was to disable him from active labor. March 27, 1848, Miss Anna Fraker became his wife. She was born July 25, 1823, in Wilmington, Del., and is a daughter of Joseph Fraker, who came to the United States many years ago, from Switzerland. The maiden name of Mrs. Paskins' mother. was Frances Gass. Mr. and Mrs. Paskins had a family of eight children : Mary Ann, Harrison, Jennie, Ella S., Francis, William J. (deceased), John T. and Joseph P., all of whom were born in this county. In August, 187 1, Mr. Paskins made a trip to England, to look after an estate left him by entailment, and while there, met with his death under very mysterious circumstances. The supposition is that he was murdered for his money, as he was known to have a considerable sum in his possession at the time. His death occurred on the 9th da)' of January, 1872, and he was buried in Halifax, England. His widow resides in Hensley Township, and is a well-preserved woman for her years. She owns a good farm of 185 acres, and manages the same.

1862, and is the youngest son of John W. and Annie M. (Fricker) Paskins, natives respectively of Ohio and Maryland, and of English and German lineage. John W. Paskins came to Indiana many years ago, and was by occupation a blacksmith, having followed the trade for some time in the town of Williamsburg. He was a soldier in the late war, and died in the year 1870. Mrs. Paskins accompanied her parents to this country many years ago, and is still living, making her home in the village of Samaria. The subject of this sketch was reared in Johnson County, and enjoyed the advantages of a good English education. He began life as a farmer, and has continued that calling ever since, owning at this time a beautiful place of seventy acres, which is well improved and stocked. He is one of the energetic young men of the township, and stands high in the confidence and esteem of his neighbors and fellow citizens. Politically, he is a democrat. He married at the age of twenty-two (1884), Miss Eliza Bridges, of this county, a daughter of George and Eliza Bridges. This union was blessed with the birth of one child, Harold C.

Hiram Porter, deceased. - Prominent among the self-made men of Johnson County, was the late Hiram Porter. Mr. Porter was a native of Clark County, Ind., born in the year 1823, and was the son of Francis Porter. He accompanied his father to Johnson County when seven years of age, and lived here until his death, which" occurred about the year 1866. He was an extensive farmer and stock-raiser, and frequently shipped as high as 2,500 head of hogs at one time, besides dealing extensively in other livestock. In early life, his surroundings were of the most unfavorable kinds, but with a well-defined purpose to succeed, he overcame the many hindrances which poverty threw in his way, and amassed a handsome fortune. He built a grist-mill near his home, which was in operation a number of years, and at the time of his death owned ova: 600 acres of valuable land and a vast amount of other property. Mr. Porter was married first to Miss Lucinda Beech, by whom he had two children : Francis K., and Mary J., now M»s. Logan. Mrs. Porter died in 1848, and later Mr. Porter married Miss L. Prather, who bore him three children, one of whom, Miss Henrietta Holman, is living. Mr. Porter's third marriage was solemnized with Miss Rachel Prather, who bore him one child, now dead. Mr. Porter's fourth wife was Miss Susan Wright, after whose death he married Miss Annie Small, who is now living at Rushville, Ind. There were no children by the last two marriages. Mr. Porter was a democrat in politics, and deserves mention as one of the representative citizens of Johnson County.

Francis K. Porter, oldest son of Hiram Porter, was born in Johnson County, Ind., January 10, 1843. He was married in 1866 to Miss Martha B. Hall, of Kentucky, who died in February, 1875. The fruits of this marriage were six children, three living, Hiram E., George M. and Susan E. In October, 1876, Mr. Porter was married to Miss Mary J. Lee, a union blessed with the birth of the following children: Sylvia P., Venna A., Sarah E., William O., Eliza B., and Nettie M. Mr. Porter is one of the substantial men of Hensley Township, and a man in whom the people have implicit confidence. He owns a farm of 125 acres, upon which are some of the best improvements in the county. He is a democrat in politics, and with his wife, belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church.

J. T. Ragsdale was born in Shelby County. Ky., April 28, 1829, and »is the youngest son of Frederick and Sarah (Hunter) Ragsdale, natives of the same state, and of English and German descent, respectively. Frederick and Sarah Ragsdale were married in Kentucky, and resided there until 1834, at which thime they immigrated to Johnson County, Ind., and settled in Hensley Township, near the place now owned by the subject. Mr. Ragsdale was a pioneer in the true sense of the word, and bore an active part in the development of the country. He served in the last war with Gi-eat Britain, and participated in a number of battles, including the memorable engagement at New Orleans. He was a man of many excellent traits of character, a true Christian, and with his wife, was a charter member of the Baptist Church at Trafalgar. Mr. and Mrs. Ragsdale raised a family of seven children, of whom five are living - all of them residents of Johnson County. J. T. Ragsdale was five years of age when his parents moved to Johnson County, and for a period of over fifty years, has been one of its most highly respected citizens. Having early manifested a decided preference for mechanical pursuits, he selected the carpenter's trade for a vocation, and after becoming proficient in the same continued the calling for a number of years. In the meantime he came into possession a farm, but not liking farm work he employed help to run the place, and continued his trade almost exclusively until 1876. Since that year he has operated a saw-mill, and is doing a large and lucrative lumber business. Mr. Ragsdale is a skillfull mechanic, and from childhood has had a natural liking for machinery. He has been successful in his various enterprises, and is a public-spirited citizen, and a liberal supporter of all public enterprises. For several years he has given considerable attention to raising fine poultry, and has now some of the finest breeds in the country. Mr. Ragsdale was married May 20, 1847, to Susan Ann

Mullikin, daughter of William and Sarah Mullikin, by whom he -had four children, onlv one of whom, Mrs. Mollie Snow, of Boone County, is now living. Mrs. Ragsdale died March 23, 1853. February 14, 1854, Mr. Ragsdale married Susan Branch, of Oldham Countv, Kv., who died September 14, 1884. To the second marriage was born one child, a son, Alonzo Ragsdale, now a business man of Trafalgar. Mr. Ragsdale's third marriage was solemnized with Miss Mary Brunnemer, of Johnson County, daughter of William and Xancy Brunnemer, a union blessed with the birth of one child, Pansy Lvnn.

Dr. Jeffersox B. 'Ream, physician and surgeon, Trafalgar, is a native of Lancaster County, Penn., and was born on the 26th day of August, 1827. Paternally, the Doctor is descended from German ancestry, but the family came to America from England about the year £715, and located in one of the eastern colonies. The Doctor's father, John Ream, was- born in Pennsylvania, m 1804, and died in the year 1869. He was, by profession, a physician, and acquired considerable prominence in his calling. His wife, Caroline (Baking) Ream, was born in Pennsylvania, in 1807, and is still living, having reached the advanced age of eighty-one years. Dr. Ream was reared in his native county, and enjoyed the advantages of a liberal education in the high schools of Lancaster. While still young he decided to prepare himself for the medical profession/and for six years pursued the study of the same in the city of Philadelphia under distinguished instructors. While at Philadelphia he was married to Miss Elizabeth Landis, daughter of Abraham Landis, and, after completing his studies, returned to Lancaster County, and entered upon the duties of his profession in Landisville. In December, 1852, he came to Johrrson County lnd., and becran the practice at Williamsburg, where he continued until 1862, and then came to Trafalgar. He practiced in the latter place two years, and was then commissioned assistant surgeon in the government service, and was thus employed until 1869. On leaving the army he returned to Trafalgar, where he has since resided in the active practice of his profession. Dr. Ream stands high professionally, and has a large and lucrative practice in Johnson and adioining counties. He has been a close student, and during a long professional career has met with the most encouraging success. Politically, he wields an influence for the republican party. He is a member of the Masonic and Odd Fellows fraternities and takes an active part in all movements having for their object he public good. Dr. and Mrs. Ream have five children, all married and living in Johnson County, whose names are as follows: John J.,

John G. Roberts. - Conspicuous among the old and reliable citizens of Hensley Township, is John G. Roberts, who was born in Jennings County, Ind., on the 13th day of March, 1825. His father, Albert Roberts, was a native of Tennessee, and for a number of years followed agricultural pursuits in Kentucky, in which state he married Nancy Green, by whom he had eleven children, all of whom grew to manhood and womanhood. Albert Roberts moved to Johnson County, Ind., in 1826, and settled upon the place where our subject now lives. He was one of the pioneers of Hensley, did a great deal toward clearing and developing the country, and became the owner of several hundred acres of land. He is remembered as an honorable citizen and a courteous Christian gentleman, having for a number of years been an earnest member of the Disciple Church. He died at the age of fifty-nine, and was laid to rest in the Bethlehem cemetery. His wife survived him a number of years, dying at the advanced age of over eighty. Of the children four only are living, John G. being the only one residing in Indiana. John G. Roberts, was one year old when his parents moved to Johnson County. His first experience in life was amid the rugged scenes of pioneer times, and he was earl}- taught those lessons of industry, which has marked his subsequent career. On March 11, 1847, he married Miss Charlotte, daughter of Joseph Thompson of Jackson County, after which he settled in the woods, and began to carve out a home. In this he was successful, and by industry and economy succeeded in accumulating a comfortable competence, owning at this time a fine farm of 205 acres, the greater part of which is under a high state of cultivation. During his long period of residence in Johnson County, over sixty years, he has conducted himself as becomes an upright and honorable gentleman, and against his character or good name, no breath of suspicion was ever known to have been uttered. Politically, he supports the republican party, and in religion, belongs to the Christian Church. Mrs. Roberts is a member of the Baptist denomination. To Mr. and Mrs. Roberts have been born twelve children, of whom the following are living: J. N., Rebecca J., Francina, John A., Lillie and Cordia, all married and living in Johnson County.

John Slack. - Few men in Johnson County have lived to as ripe an old age as the gentleman whose name introduces this biographical sketch. Mr. Slack was born in Brown County, Ohio, on the 7th day of January, 1807. His father was Jacob Slack, a native of one of the eastern states, and an early pioneer of

Hexsley Towxship. Jj.Ij

Kentucky, where many years ago he married Miss Delilah Downing. Shortly after their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Slack emigrated to Brown County, Ohio, where, for a number of years, Mr. Slack was engaged in farming. The}' had a family of fourteen children, seven of whom are living, six being residents of Indiana. John Slack was reared to manhood in his native county and state, and there in 1830 united his fortunes with Miss Susan Bowler, daughter of William O. and Sarah (Hillman) Bowler, who has been a true and faithful wife and companion for a period of nearly sixty years. In the year 1833, Mr. Slack entered a tract of land in Johnson County, Ind., and a little later moved his family to the same, and began life as a pioneer in the woods of Hensley Township, the few settlements at that time being mere nitches in the forest. He developed a good farm and became the owner of a large amount of land, much of which has been divided among his children. He is now one of the oldest residents of the county, and one of its most highly respected and honorable citizens. Of a family of ten children born to Mr. and Mrs. Slack, five are now living: Elizabeth H., Mary E., Susan A., Emeline and Carrie J. Mr. Slack cast his first presidential vote for Andrew Jackson, and has been a supporter of the democratic party ever since, though not a partisan in the sense of seeking office. He is now eighty-two years of age, in possession of all his mental faculties, and in the enjoyment of tolerable health. His companion has reached the ripe old age of eighty-one. They celebrated the fiftieth, anniversary of their marriage in 1880, upon which occasion 169 friends and relatives were" present to congratulate the aged couple. Mr. and Mrs. Slack have five children, thirty-one grandchildren and twenty-five great grandchildren living.

Aarox Stocktox. - Prominent among the leading farmers and substantial citizens of Wensley Township, is the gentleman for whom this biography is prepared. Aaron Stockton was born in Johnson County, Ind., April 10, 1845, and is a son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Holman) Stockton. Mr. and Mrs. Stockton were married in Johnson County, and after residing here for a few years, emigrated to Warren County, 111., where Mrs. Stockton died in her eighteenth year, leaving two children, viz. : Thomas A., of Kansas City, Mo., and Aaron, whose name introduces this sketch. After his mother's death, Aaron was brought back to Johnson County, and for a number of years made his home with his grandfather, Mr. Holman, who treated him kindly and gave him the advantages of a good common school education. By diligent application to his studies, young Stockton became familiar with the branches usually taught in the common schools, and for eleven years he followed teaching as a profession, in which he met with the most encouraging success. On the 23d of December, 1866, he was united in marriage with Miss Lancy Colman, daughter of F. M. Colman, a union blessed with the birth of five children, all of whom are sons, viz.: Louis F., Alonzo L., George T., Marion N. and Ora A. Since his marriage Mr. Stockton has resided. in Hensley Township, and since 1870, has been living on his present home place, one mile east of Morgantown. He owns a fine farm of 290 acres, upon which are some of the best improvements in the township. He is one of the wide-awake citizens of the county, and a man honored and respected by all who have the good fortune of knowing him. Politically, he is a supporter of the democratic party.

Hervey Vories, an old and reliable citizen. of Johnson County, is a son of John and Sarah (Culley) Vorie$, natives respectively of Kentucky and Virginia, and was born in the former state on the 28th day of January, 1821. The family came to Johnson County in the fall of 1831, and for a number of years thereafter the father, owing to his trade, was known as Mason John Vories. In connection with his trade, Mr. Vories carried on farming, and in time became one of the well-to-do residents of the neighborhood in which he resided. By his first wife he had two children: Catherine, wife of John A. Coons, and Hervey, the subject of this biography. Mrs. Vories died December 19, 1866, and later, Mr. Vories married Mrs. Mason, by whom he had one child: Benjamin F. Mr. Vories died October 10, 1880, and lies by the side of his first wife, in the old Friendship cemetery. He was a citizen of Johnson County 1 for over half a century, and a man of many sterling qualities. Hervey Vories was raised in Hensley Township, and began life as a farmer. February 17, 1842, he married Miss Alazannah Carter, of Virginia, daughter of John and Margaret (McClure) Carter, a union blessed with the birth of' eight children, the following of whom are now living: Mrs. Caroline Terhune, William A., James M., Mrs. Angeline Green, and Hervey D. Of these children, all but Mrs. Green, live in Johnson County. Mr. Vories began life in an humble way, but with the energy and determination which characterize the successful man, he has succeeded in accumulating a comfortable competence, including a beautiful farm of 117 acres, where he now resides. He has been an honored resident of Johnson County considerably over fifty years, and has the confidence and esteem of all who know him. In religion, he is what he is pleased to term, a " naturalist," but is liberal toward those of different beliefs.

John and Hannah Woolfington. The parents were married in Kentucky, and early emigrated to Salem, this state, where for some years the father held the position of deputy clerk of the Washington circuit court. ' He was a man of fine clerical abilities, and during his residence in Salem did a large amount of legal writing, etc. Mr. and Mrs. Woolfington had three chilnren, two of whom, a daughter, Mrs. Eliza Underwood, and the subject of this sketch, are living. Mr. Woolfington died a number of years ago, and his widow subsequently married, and under the care of his stepfather; John H. continued until" his thirteenth year, the mother dying in the meantime. At the age of twenty, our subject was married to Miss Nancy Martin, of Shelby County, Ky., after which he moved to Putnam County, Ind, and there remained until the year 1852. He then removed to Boone County, and engaged in farming and the livery business, and eight years later moved to Clinton County, where he followed agricultural pursuits for a period of six years. While on a visit to Vermillion County, 111., his wife died, after which event he broke up housekeeping, and made his home with his son in Boone County, until 1881. By his first marriage Mr. Woolfington had ten children, six of whom are living: Ann Eliza, Elias H., John N., Mary C, Lewis E. and George V. In 1881, Mr. Woolfington came to Johnson County, and the same year was united in marriage with Mrs. Margaret (Slack) Bass, widow of Arthur Bass. Since then he has followed farming as his principal occupation, in which he has been reasonably prosperous. He is an active and ^earnest .church member, and as such was licensed to preach while a resident of Boone County, and later, 1881, was regularly ordained in the county. He preaches in different parts of the country, but is not engaged in regular pastoral work, going wherever he can do the most good. He is- well versed in biblical literature, and possesses a Christian character above reproach.