Johnson County, Indiana - The whole text, 1913 (part 9 of 11)

On March 8, 1874, Mr. iMcQuir.n married Elizabeth ^^lullendore, the daughter of Lewis iNlullendore, and tc them have been born seven children, six of whom are living, namely: Everette M., a inechanic and contractor of Indianapolis, married Dora Featheringill, the daughter of Thomas Featheringill, and they have two children, Harry and JMargaret; Bertha Abigail, who was the wife of Oscar Adkins, died on July 5, 1909; Mrs. Harriet Brewer, of Whiteland, is the mother c<t two children, William and Donald : Ernest Raymond, a farmer, married 0:)al Forsythe, and they have one child, Ralph Miillendore; Louis E.. who li\es in northern Michigan, is an auto mechanic and shop n.ianager : Alice Marie and Thomas \\'endal are at home.

Mrs. Eiizabcth Catherine (Mullendore) McOuinn, who was born on January 5, 185 1, is a representative of one of the best known families in Jchnsou county, a complete sketch of whom will be found elsewhere in this work. She is a lady of splendid personal qualities of character and is beloved by all who know her. Mr. McQuInn is a man of many praiseworthy traits of character, being scrupulously honest in all his dealings with the world, generous and pleasant, possessing rare fortitude and good judgment, advocating clean policies, wholesome living and honest in business. Needless to add that sucli a man has hosts of friends and stands high in the estimation of all who know him.

In the history of Johnson county, as applying to the agricultural interests, the name of John A. McCasl^n occu[)i!.-s a conspicuous place, for through a number of years he has been one of the representative farmers of I-Vanklin township, progressive, enterprising and persevering. Such qualilic.-- always win success, sooner or later, and to Mr. ]\IcCaslin they have brought a satisfactory reward for his well-directed effort, and while he has benefited himself and coniinunity in a material way, he has also been an in'luential factor in the educational, political and moral uplift .of the community fa^'orcd by his residence.

John A. McCaslin, who is numbered among the eaterprising and suxessful farmers of Franklin township, Johnson county, is a native of the count;' in Vvhich he nov,- lives, and was born on Noveml^er 11. 1870, being the sjn ot John and Martha Jane (Alexander) McCaslin. The subject's paternal grari'.- father. .Alexander AlcCaslin, was a native of ^^lercer county, Kentucky, aud came to Scoti county^ Indiaria, in i8t6, remaining there until 1S29. 1 lie subject's father was born in Scott county, and came to Johnson county w'.tli his parents in 1829, locating about two miles south of Franklin, where i\\cy remained for the remainder of their lives. To John and Martha McCa-^hn. were born fi\e children, George A., Robert \\'., P.elle, John .\. and Edgar, 'flic subject's father was a Presbyterian in his religious belief, and a Repul lican in politics, though not active in political matters.

John A. McCaslin received he advantage of a good common s:"u""' education in Franklin township ar d spent his early years under the paioiu"!' roof, giving his assistance in the operation of the home farm. He has nc-.-r forsaken the l>asic science of agriculture, in which he has achieved a splendid success, and he is still actively engaged in that line of effort. He is the owner of a splendid farm in Franklin township, the general appearance of which is a credit to him, and he has exercised a wise judgment and sound common sense in its operation, so rotating the crops as to not impair the fertility of the soil. In addition to the tilling of the land, he gives some atterition to tlie breeding and raising of live stock, which he has also found a profitable source of income.

In 1897, Mr. McCaslin was married to Leila Covert, the daughter of Albert N. and Susan (Magill) Covert, who were early settlers of this county and reared a large family here. P''olitically, Mr. McCaslin has always given his support to the Republican party, while his religious membership is with the Presbyterian church, which he attends regularly and to which he gi\es a liberal support. He has become well and most favorably known throughout his locality for his loyalty to the Iruth, his uprightness in business, his public spirit and friendly disposition. He and his v^ife are among the most influential and popular citizens of th^ir community, being abreast of the times in every way and always willing to gl\e their time and substance, if need be, to further any mo.emont loolnng to the betterment of the locality where they reside, religiously, socially or educationally.

Fealty to facts in the analyzation of the character of a citizen of the type of J. J. Clary is all that is required to make a biographical sketch interesting to those who have at heart the good name of the community, because it is the honorable reputation of the man of standing and affairs, more than any other consideration, that gives cha -acter and stability to the body politic and makes the true glory of a city or state revered at home and respected abroad. In the broad light which things of good repute ever invite, the name and character of Mr. Clary stand reveriled and secure and, though of modest demeanor, with no ambition to distinguish himself in public position or as a leader of men, his career has been signally honorable and it may be studied \'ith profit by the youth entering upon his life work.

J. J. Clary, a successful farmer of White River tov/nship, of which civil subdivision he is trustee, was born on ^[ay 21,, 1870, on the farm on which he novi- lives, and is the son of Weslev P. Ciarv, whose death occurred in T8S4. His motlicr, Ursula (DGrrcIl) Clary, a native of Johnson cou iiv. is still living. Wesley P. Clary was the son of David Clary, whose pai( nts were nati\"es of Ireland. He married a Miss Bristov^', of Welsh, descent. The Clarys were early settlers and pioneers of Indiana, and have always Lceii numbered among" the best citizens of their community. To Wesley P. Clarv and wife were born five children, namely: Mrs. Martha Sedden, of Marion county, Indiana; David Franklin, \Vho died in 1879; ]Mrs. Mary Catherine Surface, of Oldenburg, Texas; J. J., the immediate subject of this sketch, and iSIinnic, who was born in 1876 and died iii 1882. After the death of her husband, the subject's mother married George Hughes, with whom she is still living.

J. J. Clary received a good practical district school education and hns followed farming during all bis active years. He lived with his nioiher on the home farm until attaining h;s majority, when he v/ent to Indianap'ilis. where he was a member of the police force for two years. He was a good officer, but preferred the independent and out-door life of the farm and returned to the home farm, thirteer acres of which he had inherited from his father and to which he lliereafter ^ave his sulct atiention. lie was proswu.- ous in his efforts and added to his original h(>ldings from time to time a-; he was able until he is now tlie owner of si.xty-seven acres in ^\"hite River township and forlv acres in Pleasant township. The place is well improved and maintained in excellent condition, the nice lavrn and attractive home, with vM modern appointments, making life very pleasr^nt and commending the owner as a man of good judgment and excellent. ta.bte.

From boyhood JMr. Clary has taken an active interest in political ari;iir<, giving his support to the Demociatic party, and in 1S97 he became ro:i:l supervisor of the township for fou - years, while in.ipoS he was elected trustee of White River township for a four-year term, which, however, b}- I'gi-^- lative enactment was lengthened I0 six years. He is now engaged in the erection of a new^ school house, wh ch will cost about fifteen thousand dollars, having four rooms and basement ?nd modern in every respect. Religiously. Mr. Clary has for a long time beer an active member of the Methodist bpicopal church, while, fraternally, h<i is a member of the Knights of Pyrliiaat Stone's Crossing, in which he 'nas been a member for twentv-two ^carand an incambent of one office or another for eighteen years. He alsc hclongs to the Masons at Bargersvill ;.

c.iildren, Hazel Kirk, born August 17, 1893, George Denzel, born June 30, 1899, and Elsie Glenn, born November S, 1900. }*lr. Clary is a most gracious and companionable gentleman, honorable and reliable in all his dealings, and he ranks among the enterprising and public-spirited citizens of the community in which he resides, manifesting an active interest in whatever pertains to the progress of liis county, and co-operates with others in forwarding all measures whercb}- his fellowmen may be benefited. Because of his high principles and his success in life he is held in high favor by his fellow citizens.

Christiax Held

Among the earnest men whose cnicrprise and depth of character have gained a prominent place in the community and the respect and confidence of his fellow citizens is the honored suljjcct of this sketch. A leading farmer and stock raiser of the townshii) in which he resides and a man of decided views and laudable ambitions, his infli ence has ever licen exerted for the advancement of his kind, and in the vcication to which his energies are devoted he ranks among the rci)rescntative agriculturists of the county.

Christian Held, who is operating successfully one of the largest and most fertile farms in I-'ranklin township, Johnson county, is a native of the dominion of Canada, where he was born October 2^, 1S55, ^"'' 'S the son of Christian and Mary (Henglesten) Held. The father was a native of the German empire, who came to this country in an early da\ , landing in New York City, from wlience he went to Canada, where he resided for a time, coming to Indiana, v.hcre he spent the balance of his life. He was engaged here in farming and in the conununity where he lived he was held in high esteem because of his genuine worth anl high character. To him and his wife were born ten. children, six of whom are still living.

The subject of this sketch received his education in the common schools of Jennings county, Indiana, where the family resided for some time, and on attaining mature years he took up the vocation of farming, which he has followed ever since. He is now operating the R. V. Ditmars farm of two hundred and ninety-three acres, located in Franklin township, one of the tie^t and most fertile tracts of land in the county, and to this farm he is giving most intelligent direction, the fruits of his efforts being evident in the abandant harvests he reaps annually. In addition to a general line of farming. Mr. Held also gives some attention to the raising of live stock, in the handling of whicli he has met with, considerable sncccss. The cozy anci attractive home, large and commodious barns, well-kept fences and other features of a nK>dern and up-to-date farm characterize the place, and in tlic community where he has resided so many years 'Mr. Held is regarded as a competent and progressive agriculturist. Recawse of his sterling qualities of character and the deep interest he has taken isi the affairs of the community, he has enjoyed to a marked extent the confidence and esteem of his fellow citizens. Politically, Mr. Held has given hif support to the Democratic party,' but has never been an aspirant for public oftice of any nature. His religious belief is embodied in the creed of the Presbyterian church, which he attends and to which he gives a liberal support. Socially, he and the members of his family move in the best circles of the comnninity and are popular among their acquaintances.

On March 9, 1893. ^Ir. I-Teld was uni'i'ed in marriage to Cora M. Henslcy, the daughter of Prettyman B. and Barbara Ann (Wallace) Hensley. Th.e father w^as a native of this county, of wlrflch his family had been very early settlers. More details of the family history will be found elseuhere in this work in the sketch of Hiram Hensley. ^Irs. Held is a woinan of Uiaiiy splendid qualities of character and, like her husband, she is popula:- among her acquaintances.

Robf.Rt A. Service

The student interested in Johnson county, Indiana, does not have to carry his investigation far into its anrpals before learning that Robert A. Service has long been an active and leading representative of its agi icultural interests and that his labors have proven a potent force in making this a rich farming region. Through several decades the subject has carried on farming, gradually improving his valuable place, and while he has prospered in this, he has also found ample opportunity to assist in the material development of the county, and his co-operation has feeen of value for the general good.

Robert A. Service, one of the most enterprising and progressive farmers of Needham township, Johnson county,. Indiana, was born in Fran'din, rhis county,- on November 12, 1858, and is a son of Plenry and Leah (Whitenack) Service. The father was a nauive of comity Derry, Ireland, and cat_-e to tins country in a. very early day, landing at Quebec, Canada, from whence lie went to Philadelphia, later to Cincinnati, and in 1855 came to Johnson conn- ty. lie was a shoemaker by trade, which vocation he followed until 1878, when he moved to Needham township, where he remained until 1884, and tlien came back to Franklin, where he died in 1SS5. He was prosperous in his business affairs, and erected the old building at the northwest corner of the public square in Franklin, which is now owned by his widow. Fie was prominent in the public life of tlie community, though never au office holder. Fraternally, he was a member of the Odd Fellows lodge at Franklin, and was a mcijiber and an aclive worker in the Presbyterian church. To him and his wife were born two children, namely: Robert A., the immediate subject of this sketch, and I..yd:a, who married a Mr. Bronson and lives in Bridgeport, Alabama.

The subject of this sketch received his prelinunary education in the common schools of Franklin, after \\hich he attended the old Franklin Academy. He then followed the vocat on of his father, being employed at shoemaking from 1874 until 1S78, when he relincjuished the bench and took up the vocation of farming, which ha> been his active pursuit since that time. He is now the owner of eighty acres of splendid land in Needham town;hip. to the operation and oultivatic. n of whicii he gives iiitelligcnt direction, and on wliicb he raises abunrlant ciops aunuially. In addition to the tilling of tlie soil he gives considerable atti ntion to the breeding and raising of Jersey cattle, of wliich he sells large numbers e\cry year. He gives every detail of the farm work his personal attent (.m, and by his enterprise, progressive ideas and systen;atic methods he has aclieved cnn'nent success in his calling.

On February 5, 1885, Robert A. Service v.^as united in marriage to Elizabeth Stephens, who was reared b} Jacob and Jeannette (McOne'^.ton ) Stephens,' ^\-ho were natives of Scotland, from which thev came to America and some time afterward setthd in Johnson county. To the subject and his w^ife have been born four cHldren, namely: Essie, who married a Mr. Cecil Holdren, an insurance ageni of Indianaii'ilis : Harry, of Johnson county, and Guy and Rhea, of Needham township.

In his political ideas Mr. Service i;; in full harmony with the platforn: of the Progressive party, to which he gave his earnest support in the last election, and during the period from i8()0 to 1895 ^^ rendered efficient service as assessor of Needham township. Fraternally, he is a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Fraternal C'rder of Eagles at Franklin. In the widest and best sense of the term, his liJe has been a pronounced success, as hi has always measured up to the high standard of citizenship required by men of his statnp, serving well and faith fullv his day and generation, and by (50) virtue of his consistency to truth, honor and riglit living he has won an honored name in the township in which he resides. Therefore, he is eminently well qualified for a place in the present volume.

Johnson county, Indiana, enjoys a high reputation because of tho high order of her citizenship, and none of her citizens occupy a more ei .viable position in the esteem of his fellows than the gentleman whose name afipears at the head of tliis sketch. A residence here of over sixty years has gi\en his fellows a full opportunity to observe him in the various lines of activity in which he lias engaged and his preserit l)igh standing is due solely to the honorable and upright course h.^ has pursued. As a leading citizen Df his comiuum'ty he is eminently entitled to re[)resentati'-'n in a work of thi.^^ character.

William jSlartin Fisher, a prominent citizen and tlie present p jpular trustee of Necdham township, Johnson co'.uity. Indiana, was born i i this township on October 31, 1849 ^"d is tlie son of Jacob and Kat lerine (liowers) iMsher, both of whom were natives of Xortli Carolina. Ii their youth they came to Indiana, their marriage occurring after their settlcn--nt in Clark county, and in 1S26 they came to Johnson county, settling en the farm which the subject of this sketch now o\vns. It consists of one hi ndred and forty-nine acres, all of which is eligible for cultivation, and her 3 Mr. Fisher has carried on successfully for many years his vocation as an as ricvilturist. He is systematic in his methods and raises all the crops comn on to this locality, among his fellow citizens being considered a man of exccf tional ability and acumen. His father spent his entire life on this farm after locating on it, and here he raised to maturity eleven children, namely: Henry, John, Phoebe, Jane, George, Katherine, an Infant, Thomas, Mary, William M. and Eliza, seven of these children being no\u deceased. Jacob Fisher was a Methodist in his religious views and acti\-e m religious work. Polit'cally. he was not active, although taking a deep interest in ever}-t]iing pertain iig to the welfare of his comnumity.

On October 29, 18S3. the s; liject of this sketch was united in ma riage to Jane Boner, the daughter of Henry and Penelope (Kinhick) Boner botli of whom were natives of North Carolina, coining to Johnson county, Iniliana, in 1857, settling in Pleasant tow.iship, where they remained during their ac- tive lives. . 'I'hcy were successful fanning people and enjoyed the respect and esteem of all who knew them. The mother is still living. To the suhject and his wife have been born tw-o children, Olesla and EricR.

The subject of this sketch has been a prominent worker in the ranks of the Democratic party for many years, served as road supervisor for one terni, and in 190S entered the office of township trustee, to which he had been elected and the duties of which he is discharging to the entire satisfaction of his fellow citizens. His term will not expire until 1914. Fraternally, he is a uicmber of the Knights of Pythias lodge at Franklin, in which he takes an active interest, while his religious membership is with the Second Alt. Pleasant I'aptist church, in whicli he is an active worker and to which he contributes liberally of his means. He is a man of sound and practical intelligence, keenly alert to ever\-thing relating to his interests, and, in fact, with all that concerns the prosixirily and advancement of his community. Because of his splendid personal characteristics and his genuine worth, he enjoys the confidence and estc( m of all who know Iii'n. and he is eminently entitled to representation in a work of the character of the one at hand.

One of the most enterprising of oui- yourjger generation of fanners In Johnson county, who has believed from tlic outset of his career th.at the "wisdom of yesterday is sometimes the -jolly of today,"' and that while the methods of our grandfathers in tilling t'le soil were all right in their day. yet in the twentieth century we are coripelled to adopt new methods and farm along different lin.es, in view of the fact that conditions of climate, soil, grains, etc., have changed since the day> of the pidneers. Fie has been a close observer of modern methods and is a student at all times of whatever pertains to his chosen life work and he has therefore met with encouraging sticcess all along the line, and, judging from his past record, he will undoulitedly achieve much in the future years and take his place among the leading agriculturists of a community noted for its fine farms and adroit husbandmen.

Elmer Vandivier, proprietor of thi well known Spring Hill farm in Fnaiklin township, Johnson county, Indiana, is a n.itive of this countv, his birth having occurred on October 3, 1872, the son of Isaac N. and Sarah ^]. (Byers) Vandivier. His father and his grandfather also, John Vandivicr, were natives of Johnson county, of which locahty the Vandivier family were early settlers and prominent citizens. The subject's mother was also a native of this county, the daughter of Henry Byers. The subject is the only child born to his parents. Isaac N. Vandivier was a life-long farmer after his marriage, before which event he had followed the mercantile business to some extent at Trafalgar. His first farm was in Franklin township and he never left the home place, giving his entire attention to its cultivation and improvement, in which he was successful to an eminent degree. He cai ricd on general farming and stock raising, and in all the affairs of his comnu-nity he \''as considered a prominent and potc!itial factor.

The subject of this sketch attended the common schools during his boyhood days and early he learned tlie mysteries of successful agriculture through his father's direction. He is now the owner of one hundred and sixty acre5 of splendid land in Franklin township, v.here he carries on gereral farming and also successfully breads the finest strains of Jersey cattle, for Vv'hich he finds a ready sale. He owns an attractive and comfortable -esidence, large and commodious barns and other necessary farm outbuildings, and in the operation of his place he exercises a wise discriniinatiuii and scniul judgment, which has insured his material success.

On November 16, 1893, ^^r. A/'andivier was united in marriage to Q rrie Park, a dayghter of Rufus L. and Serelda (Silver) Park. ' The Park ianiily originally came to this county from Kentucky and were early and prominent settlers of the same. To Mr. and Airs. Vandivier have been born five children, Ruth, IMargarette, Helen, Bonriie and Grace, all of whom are at home with their parents.

Mr. Vandivicr's political preferences are with the Republican party, of which he has been a staunch suppc^rter for many years. Fraternally, he is a member of the Knights of the Maccabees, while his religious membership is with the Baptist church, of which he is an earnest member. Per.sondly, Mr. Vandivier is friendly, a good mixer and wins and retains friends v itliout effort, for he is at all times a gentleman, obliging, unassuming and honest to the lette^r in his dealings with his fellow men. His life has been on; ( f unceasing industry and perseveran 'e, and the notably systematic and honorable methods he has followed havi won for him the unbounded, confidence and regard of all v/ho have formed his acquaintance.

George Owens, Sr. ' '

Descended from honored ancestry and himself numbered among the leading citizens of Johnson county, Indiana, the subject of this' sketch is entitled to specific recognition in a work of this character. A residence in this county of many years has but strengthened his hold on the hearts of the people with whom he has been associated and today no one here enjoys a larger circle o-f warm friends and acquaintances, who esteem him bccaustof his sterling ciualities of character and his business ability.

George Owens, Sr., one of the oldest residents and successful farmers of Johnson county, was born on June 30, 1833, in Needhani township, this county, and is the son of. Samuel and Millie (Fisher) Owens. His father i;; a native of Clark county, Indiana. The subject's paternal grandfather canif from Virginia in a very early day in its history and located in Clark county, later settling in Johnson county, wher: he made his future home. He Vv'as a farmer during all his active years. He was the father of seven children, three of whom are now living. The subject of this sketch received his education in the common schools of Johnson cou ity, and has followed farming through out his active years, being nmv the owner of one hundred and eighty acres Oi' splendid ti!lal)le land in Xecdhani lowii-^hip, t;) wliich lie de\olcs his attention. His farm is well drained and well fenced and his fields are kept in a In'gh state of productivity, owing to his skill in rcilating crops and other modern methods of farming. He has a modern and comfortable dwelling, which is nicely furnished. Many convenient outbuixlings also stand on the place, which altogether stands in marked evidence Df the owner's wisdom and good judgment. He is among the most highly respected citizens of Necdham township, where he is well known to all classes and much liked by all who know hitr, for his life has been led along even-tempered and useful lines. He is regarded as unqualifiedly upright and as advocating whatever tends to promote the moral, civic and educational affairs of the county, being known to be kind and hospitable to those whom misfortune of any kind has overtaken.

Politically, Mr. Owens has always given his support to the Democratic party, in the success of which he has taken the deepest interest, and he served four years efnciently as supervisor of Xeedliam township, performing the duties of his office to the full satisfaction of his fellow citizens.

Mr. Owens has been married twice, first on January 18, 1854, to Katl.- ryne Owens, the daughter of John r.nd Mary (Fisher) Owens, who were early settlers of this county. To this union were born two children, Emma, deceased, and Martin. On March lo, 1859, Mr. Owens married Serena Hutchings, the daughter of John and Lilly (I-'isher) Hutchings, who were natives of North Carolina, coming to Clark county, this state, in an early day, where they spent the rest of their lives. Mr. Hutchings was a life-long farmer and a prominent man in his cominunity. To him and his wife were born eleven children, five of whom are still living.

To George and Serena Owens were born seven children, namely : ISIary Etta, Robert, Joseph, Bert, Ora, Lula, Willis and Grace. The members of the family move in the best social circles of the community and are well liked by all who know them, for the family has always stood for the best things in the community and is numbered among tlic progressi\-e and enterprising families of the county.

The character of a community is determined in a large measure by the lives of a comparatively few of its members. If its moral and intellctual status be good, if in a social way it is a pleasant place to live, if its reputation for the integrity of its citizens has extended into other localities, it wiil be found that the s.t?iiulards set by the leading men have licen high and tliat tlieir inlluence has been such as to nKjM the characters and shape the livts of tb.ose with whon: they mingle. In placing the late .Samuel ^l. Mitchell ii tlie front rank^of such men, justice is rcridcred a biographical fact univer .ally recognized throughout the localit) long honored by his citizenship by t lose at all familiar with his history. Although a qiu'et and unassuming nan, with no amlvltion for public position or leadership, he contributed muc 1 to the material, civic and moral advancement of his community, while his admirable qualitie- of head and hea t and the straightforward, upriglit course of his daily life won for him the esteem and confidence of the circles in which he mo\"ed and gave him a reputation for integrity and correct conluct such as few achieve, and although he is now sleeping the "sleep of the just," his influence still lives, and his memory is still greatly revered.

Samuel ^L Mitchell was bor)i in Johnson county, Indiana, on Xo\ember 10, 186S, and his death occurred at his home in Franklin township on August 25, 191 1. He was a son o-' John F. and ]^Iartha (Fishback) Mitchell his father also having been a native of this county, as was his father before him, James Mitchell. The subject's paternal great-grandfatlier, John D. Mitchell, v/as a native of Kentuc'.cy, and came to Johnson cinmty in i/>Jo.

entering land in Nineveli township. The various members of the family in this count}- have always taken a prommeat part in the public life of the community, and have stood high in the esteem and confidence of the people. To the subject's parents were born three children, Samuel M., Asa W. and Ora.

The subject of this sketch received a good, practical common school education, and was reared to the life of a farmer, which pursuit he followed throughout his active life. He was the owner of one hundred and sixty acres of splendid land in Franklin township, whe:-e hi.^ widow now resi'les, and to the cultivation and improvement of this tract he gave his Cmdivided attention with eminent success. He was not only an excellent and cap:ible farmer, but he had a true love for his occupation, by reason of which he was enabled to lead a contented and successful life. He was not content to farm exactly in tlie same manner as all his neighbors, but he removed from the beaten patii and devoted his energies to agriculture according to the most up-to-dalc and modern methods. There seemed to be united in bin such qualiiies of head and heart as would insure success in every fiek of endeavor and the winning of the good graces of the people wherever he went, for he was possessed of those qualifier that are everywhere admired. His life had been more or less shaped by the early teaching and traiaing of his boyhood days, for he had been reared in a pure moral atmo;phere. He had been taught self reliance, indcpei:dencc of thought and action, and a sturdx' belief in a strict adherence to the accepted standard of etli cs. Sterling honest}' in his dealings with his fellow men and an exact sen -.e of ju-^ticc in every tran'^action of life were the principles that seemed to govern his active career, as those who knew him longest an.d best can testif}. He was. a progressive citizen of hi::; communit}-, where he labored not onl/ for his own advancement, but also for tlie_ good of the people generally, his efforts having been amply repaid with abundant material succes; and the esteem of his fellow men. He was a man of many steiling characteristics, hesitating at no obstacles and ever willing to do his full share in ihe work of progress, a man whose word was as good, if not better, than the bond of most men.

On August 24, 1S90, the subject of this sketch was united in marriage to Evelyn Branigin, a daughter of Edmond and Mnry A. (Nay) Branigin, the father a nati\e of Johnson county. ]Mrs. iMitchell's paternal grandfather. Nicholas S. Branigin, was a native of Kentucky, from which state he came to Indiana in an early day, his parents having been among the early and prcminent settlers of this community. Nicholas Branigin was the father of five children, Edmund D., William, Emery D., Oscar D. and one dccc-iscd unnamed. To Edmund and ]\Iary Branigin were also born five cliiulrcii, namely.: Winifred, Evelyn, Edmonie, ^linnie and Harry L., of whom Winifred and Edmonie are deceased. To Mr. and i\Irs. }klitchell was born oric child, Max D., who remains at home with his mother.

Politically, -Mr. Mitchell was affiliated with the Democratic party, but. aside from the exercise of the right of franchise, he never took a very active part in political affairs, though maintaining at all times an intelligent interest in the current issues of tlie day. Religiously, he attended the Chri.-- tian church, to which he ^avc libe--ally of his means, and in every way -.m-- sible contributed his quota to the advancement of the best interest> of [hx communit}-. His death \vas considered a distinct loss to the community, fur he had been a man of sterling character, whose support was ewr giveii b. the best things and whose influence was always exerted for the highest idialv Mrs. ]\Iitchcll is a lady of many sp'endid graces of character, and among tlie friends with whom she associates ; he is held in the highest esteem.

Cornelius L. Defmars

The life history of Cornelius L. Ditmars, one of the well known and highly esteemed venerable citizens of Johnson county, now living in honorable retirement, stiows what indust -y, good habits and stanch citizenship will accomplish in the battle for succes: in life. His record has been one rei'lete with duty well and conscientiously performed in relation of life. He has come dov^ n to us from the pi'ineer period and has noted the wond ou< transformation from that time to this, playing well his part in the dram:, of civilization. ?Ie has thus been an ad\-ocate of wholesome living and cleruili ness in politics as well and has al\-ays stood for the highest and best interests of the community in v.hich so many of his acti\'e years have been p.a-S'.-d and which has been honored by his citizenship.

Cornelius L. Ditmars was borr on the 17th day of July, 1825, in Somerset county. New Jersey, and is the -on of Garrett and Sarah ('Verbr}-ck) Ditmars, who also were natives of tliat state, Garrett being the son of Poter Ditmars. Sarah A^'erbryck Ditmars was the daughter of Major William 'erbryck, a veteran of the Revoluticnar}^ war. In 1830 the Ditmars family em.igrated from New Jersey to Wirreu county. Ohio, where the}' rema'nvl until 1836. when they came to Johnson county. Indiana. Here Garrett Ditmars bought a tract of land, on which the timber had been partially cut and a log cabin built. At an early age Cornelius Ditmars was compelled to go to work, and was thus deprived of the educational advantages which he desired, his only school instruction being gained at a subscription school taught in a log cabin by a teacher of very ordinary ability and with the most primitive equipment. In 1846, at about the time he attained his legal majority, Cornelius Ditmars entered the employ of George King for a year, at nine dollars a month, but a fev.' months later began working on the construction of a pike road at seventy-five cents a day, later going to work in a sav^- mill at eighteen dollars a month. He was wisely ecc-nomical of his funds and eventually he and his brother Peter bought eighty acres of land with their savings and planted it to wheat. In this enterprise the" were successful and continued to make money for a few seasons. The following year Peter moved on to a farm of his own and Cornelius went to w ork for his brciher ^^'illiam. but a litile later he entered th.e employ of Capt. John P. Banta, 10 whom he rendered the most faithful service. In 1866 Mr. Ditmcrs bought one hundred and si.xty acres of the present home farm, on to whle h he mosx-d two years later and where he has resided ever since. He has been very successful in his efforts and added to his acreage from time to time, until he became rmc of the largest farmers, as well a^ one of the most progressive and enterprising in his section of Johnson county. He is now li\'ing in practical retirement, liaving turned tlie operation of his land over to other hands, though lie still retai.is personal supervision of his business aTaiis.

Cornelius L. Ditmars has been married three times, first, in 1S50, to Caroline Banta, the daughter of Capt. John P. and Catherine (List) Banta, to which union were born four children, John A^^, Eellc, \\'illiam S., and Emm;- line, who died at the age of four years. Mrs. Caroline Ditmars died in 1S61, and in 1S67 Mr. Ditmars married Catherine Alexander, whose death occurred in 1870, their union resulting in the birth of a daughter, Olive D. In 18; 2 Mr. Ditmars married Mrs. Jennie Graham Voris., who is still living.

Politically, Mr. Ditmars has always been a stanch Republican and has taken an active interest in public affairs. Religiously, he and his wife are earnest members of the Hopewell Presbyterian church, of which Mr. Ditmars has served as elder for many years. Personally, he is a man of clean cha'-- acter and has ever exerted a healthful influence in the community, giving h's support to every movement which promised to advance the welfare of the community in any \v?,} . Because of his genuine u orth and the success which has crowned his Hfe's efforts, he enjoys the sincere respect of all who know him and he is eminently entitled to representation in a work of the character of the one in hand.

Barney M. Vaught

Among those persons who have, by virtue of their strong individual qualities, earned their way to a high standing in the estimation of their fellow citizens, having by sheer force of character and persistency won their way from an humble beginning to a place of influence and prominenc. in the community where they are active in industrial affairs, the subject of tin's sketch is entitled to special mention in a volume of this character.

Barney jM. Vaught is a native of Johnson county, having been born here on July 9, 1859, and is a son of Andrew J. and Mary (Thomas) Vaught, both of whom v,ere natives of \'irginia, coming to Clark county. Ind-aiia, in early days, and later to Johnson county, where they settled in I'ranklin tMwnship. ?»lr. Vaught followed fanping all his life and became a prominent and respected member of the community. To him and his wife wei-e born tni children, namely: Martha, James, J'jhn ]\I., Anna, Andrew J., Robert M., George B., William ]M., Louisa and Barney Isl. Andrew J. Vaught was a staunch supporter of the Republican party, but had no aspirations for public offi'-e, preferring to give his entire attention to his private interests. In the ^^[(ihodist Episcopal church he was a prominent worker in the early da_\s and was a licensed exhorter. He and his wife are now both deceased.

The subject of this sketch received his earl_\- education in the cjmmon schools of Johnson county, and then took up farming, which x'ocaj'on he has followed throughout his active life. He carries on a diversified S)stcm of agriculture, raising all the crops common to tliis section of the country, and also giving a great deal of attention to the raising of live stock, whicii he has found a profitable source of income. His farm is well impro\ed and up to date in every particular, and he gfves his personal attention to every detail of the farm work.

Mr._ Vaught has been twice married, the first time in 1S79 ^" Inrlia Tilson, a daughter of Stephen ..nd Susan (Ballard) Tilson, both of whom were natives of this county. To this union were born three children, ludson. Guy C. and Nina. Mr. Vaught's first wife died in iSyi, and in 1892 lie married Minnie E. Edmonds, a daughter of \\"illiam and Hester ( BronS'Uij

Edmonds, the father a native of Alabama and the mother of Ohio. The Bronsons were an early and prominent family in Johnson county. To the subject's second union has been born one child, Opal Hester.

Politically, Mr. Vaught is a staunch supporter of the Republican party, and has served eft'iciently one term as trustee of Xecdham township. His fraternal aft'iliations are with the Knights of Pythias at Franklin, while, religiously, his membership is with the Christian Science church at Franklin. Though never aspiring to pul)lic ofhce for himself, his support has always been given to the best man for the county offices and for many years he has taken an active interest in all movements looking to the betterment of his townslii]:> and county. He has always led a quiet, well regulated and honest life, which has gained for him the respei t of a host of admiring friends, who regard him as one of tlic leading citizens of Johnson counlv.

Among those men of high personal a tainment and exalted professional character whi) Iiave retiected honor on Johnson county, and at the same time attained to a commendable position among their fellow men, is the gentleman whose name appears at the head of this pa"agraph, a man wdio in every walk in life has performed his full part, who has gi\'en his unieservcd support to every movement for the public welfare anc wlio in his daily life has so lived as to earn the confidence and good will of his fellow citizens.

William M. Province was born in .Kentucky on December 19, 1840, and is_ the son of Samuel Province, a fanner who was born in 1S05 and died in 1863. The latter was a native of Irelanc' who, in his boyhood, was brought to America by his widowed mother, who S':ttled in Kentucky. There Samuel Province was reared to manhood and mar -led, rearing five children, namely : Jane, the wife of Dr. Lindley, of Waverly, Indiana ; Dr. William M., the subject of this notice; Mrs. Rebecca Shulflebarger, Mrs. Mary E. Aldridgc and Daniel H.

William M. Province secured his ed ication in the common schools of his native community in Kentucky and in 1864 he cam.e to the state of Indiana, where he has since made his resideice. At the outbreak of the Civil war the subject's patriotic spirit was aroused and on October 12, 1S61, he enlisted as a private in Company K, Sixth Regiment Kentucky Union Volunteer Infantry, and for three years, two mt)nths and twelve days he followed the vicissitudes of war wilh lis command and took part in the battles of ShiioH, Stone River, Chickamaiiga, Murfreesboro and many other liody contested engagements, as well as skirmishes, marches and other military service. He Vv"as a valiant soldier and in the battle of Chickamauga received a severe wound in iiie left arm. In Jarmary, 1865, >dr. Province entered Bloomingdale A.cademy, vvhere he studied two years and then, having decided to take up the practice of the medical profession, he entered ]\Iiami ^Medical College at Cincinnati, Ohio, graduating in March, 1SG7. On April 15th of the same year he began tiie active practice of medicine at Providence, or Union Village, where he has since remained and wliere he has attained to the foremost rank among the leading citizens of th it community. He is the owner of a splendid farm of two hundred and forty acres, to the cultivation of which he giv^es his personal attention and he is building a beautiful and attractive n.ev,- home in Franlclin, where he expects t ) move in near future. As a doctor the subject of this sketch has through the years handled many very difficult cases and has been uniformly successful in the practice.

- On October 12, 1S68, Doctor Province Vv-as united in marriage with Julia Abraham, the daughter o; William Abraham, and to them weie born three children, namely: Clarence and Orin, both of whom are well known and successful physicians in Franklin, and Florence, the wife of Dr. Garshwilor, a practicing physician in Indianapolis, whose residence is in Southport, r.y a life of consistent a^rtion and thought, the subject of this sketch has earned the high standing h; now enjoys in his community, and it is a pleasure to give him representation in a work of the province of the one at hand.

Watson M. Van Nuys

An enumeration of the repiesentative citizens of Johnson county would be incomplete witliout specific nention of the well known and popular gentleman whose name introduces this sketch. A member of one of the old and highly esteemed families of this locality and for many years a public-spirited man of affairs, he ha.-' stamped the impress of his individuality upon the community and added luster to the hunoraljle name which he bears, having ahvays been actuated by a spirit of fairness in his dealings with the uorld in general, and leaving no stone unturned whereby he might benefit his own condition as well as that of his 'riends and the favored section of the great commonwealth in which he has been content to spend his life. Straightfor- ward and unassuming, genial and obliging, IVIr. Van Xuys enjoys the good will and respect of a wide circle of friends throughout this part of the state.

Watson 'M. Van Xuys, who enjoys an enviable reputation in his part of the country because of his eminent success as a farmer and stock raiser, was born on July 22, 1877', in Franklin township, this county, and is a son of Charles C. and Adda AL (List) \'an X'uys, his mother haviii;.'; been a daughter of Albert List. Charles C. Van Nuys was born in 1851, die son of John H. Van Nuys, a native of Mercer county, Kentucky, and pioneer settler in Johnson county, Indiana, where he purchased a farm v. I. had been entered by a Mr. Covert. John H. Van Nuys married Carol; Ditmars, and in the early life of the community they .vere highl}^ respcctei' because of their sterling character. Charles C. Van Nuys, who for the p;ist sixteen years has conducted a summer hotel at \\'inona Lake, married Adda AI. List, and to them were born four children: \V.it5on ]\l., the subject of this sketch; Edna, Mrs. Voorhics, of Rockwell City, Iowa; Ruth, Mrs. ?vIcGee, of Redondo Beach, California, and Kitty, ]\Iis. Granger, of Marion, Iowa.

Watson \'an Nuys received his elementary education in the HopeweJl schools, supplementing this by study n Franklin College, where he completed a fair and practical cflucation. J'^or the past sixteen years he has had charge of the home farm, which he has conducted in such a way as to reali.^e very advantageous results. The farm comprises one hiuidred acres, located in Franklin township, and, besides the raising of the ordinary grain crops common to this locality, Mr. Van Nuys is a breeder of pure bred Duroc Jersey hogs, of which he handles about one hundred annually. He has thirty-five acres planted to corn, twenty -three acres to wheat and three acres to peas, while on an average he cuts ab xit sixteen tons of hay. Practical in all his opcratiopis, no detail of the farri work escapes his careful attention, and the general appearance of the farm indicates the owner to be a man of sound judgment and wise discriminatic'n.

Politically, Mr. Van Nuys is a staunch Republican, though not a seeker for public office, while his religious membership is with the Hopewell Presbyterian church. Fraternally, he is a member of the Masonic order, belonging to the blue lodge and to Franklin Chapter No. 65. Royal Arch Masons.

In 1902 Mr. Van Nuys married Daisy Alberta Branigin. a daughter of ^V^illiam D. Branigin, a well known aud prominent citizen of this count\-. They move in the best social circles of the community and among their ac- <"!ua!!itances they are deservedly popul.ir. In agricultural circles Mr. Van ^'^uys stands in the front rank as a man who honors his callin.g in the present day and, because of his industry, integrity and courtesy, he is a man tor whom the future holds much of promise and reward. His integrity is of the most insistent and unswerving cliaracter and no shadow has rested upon any portioi^. of his career as a sterhng citizen. Because of his honorable record and sterling qualities of character Air. Van Xuys is eminently entitled to representation in a work of the province of the one at hand.

Williaai Owens

Agriculture has been the true source of man's dominion on earth ever since the primal existence of labor and has been the pivotal industry that has controlled, for the most part, all the fields of action to which his intelligence and energy have been devoted. Among tin's sturdy clement of Johnson county whose labors have profited alike themselves and the com nunity in which they live is the gentleman whose name appears at the head of this sketch, and in view of the consistent life record lived by the subject since coming to this section of the country, it is particularly fitting that the following short record of his career be incorporated in a book of this nat ue.

William Owens, an eriterpi'ising citizen and successful farmer of Needham township, was born on the old home farm on the 21st day of No\ ember, 1840. His paternal grandfather, James Owens, who was born in Vrginia, and in an early day came tu Indiana, located first in Clark cijunty. L.iter he came to Johnson county, probably about 1S30 or 1831, and here entered a tract of government land, to the improvetnent and cultivation of which he devoted his attention and there spent the remainder of his life, dying at an advanced age. He was a soldier in the war of 1812 and was a man of strong character. He reared a large n.tmber of children, among whom was .Samuel Owens, who was born on Alarch 3, 1808. and spent his entire life as an agriculturist. In 1827 he became a resident of Johnson county and t le following year entered land here upon which he located. .A.t that time the greater part of this tract was covered with a dense growth of timber ; iid hi? first years here were years of arduous toil in the effort to clear the land and make it fit for cultivation. He added to his acreage as he was prospcre 1 until at the time of his death, which occurred on October 15, 1846, he v, as tlic owner of two hundred and forty-six acres of as good land as could be found in that community. He married Millie Fisher, a native of North Carolina, and to them were born ten children, six .sons and four daughters, of whom three are now living, George, William, and Nancy, who is the wife of Theophilus McBride, and all residing in Ncedhani township. Mrs. Owens was born on February 21, 1810, and died on February 22, 1896, at the advanced age of eighty-six years. She and her husband were members of the Baptist church and by their consistent lives and earnest example they exerted a marked influence among those about them. The subject's grandfather on the maternal side was born in North Carolina and came to Clark county in an early day, there living to an advanced age. lie was a farmer and reared a number of children.

William Owens has spent his entire lift in Needham township, where he has successful!)- followed agricullural pursuits. His education was obtained in the old subscription schools of the neighborhood, the instruction there received being supplemented by much reading and close observation. He remained under the parental roof until attaining manhood, when he went to farming on his own account on tlie home farm, continuing his work there until the spring of 1863, when he purchased forty acres of land upon which he nov, li\es and to which he has devoted his attention since. He has been prospe-ed in his operations and has added to his landed estate until he is now the possessor of tv,-o hundred and twelve acres of highly cultivated and fertile land. He is a man of splendid business qnalincations and of indefatigable energy, the gcncal appearance of his place indicating him to be a man of sound judgment and good taste.

On April 22, 1867, Mr. Owens was married to Susanna Clark, the daughter of John and Susanna (Webb) Clark, and \\hose death occurred on July 6 1908, at the age of sixty-four years. To this union were born three children, Mabel Grace, Edith Millie and John Clark. Of these, Edith married Elbert Brown, and they now live in Needham township, and are the parents of a daughter, Mabel Grace; John C. married Cora A. Brickett, of Bargersville, ?nd they have a daughter, Marjorie Fern. ^Irs. Owens' father, John Clark, was a native of England, having been born at Epworth, Lincolnshire, while his wife was a native of Camden, New Jersey, yir. Clark was a miller and in the fall of 1841 located in Indianapolis, where for some years he sttccessfully operated a mill. Later he bought a mill on Sugar creek, Johnson county, which he conducted for a numljer of years with good success. To him and his wife were b^rn seven child'-en, four sons and three daughters, cf whom one is now li\ing: Hannah, the wife of Jacolj Tressler, of White River township, this county; Josiah, late of Los Angeles, California, deceased; Susannah, wife of the subject of this sketch, and John, deceased.

Johnson Coitntv, Indiana

late of Delaware county, Indiana; William, another son who made his home in Sliclby county. Indiana, died on Xovember 6, 1903. John Clark, Mrs. Owens' father, died on February 22, 1879, at the age of sixty-nine years, and his )vifc passed away on December 4, 1871, aged sixty-one. Both were Episcopalians in their religious belief and took a prominent part in tlie spiritual life of their community. ]\Irs. Owens' paternal grandfather, William Clark, ^\-ho also was a native of England, died at an advanced age, leaving four children. Her maternal grandfather, John Webb, v/as a native of New Jersey and followed farming during his active years, his death occurring in his nati\-e state. He was the father of two sons and two dr ughtcrs. His wife was formerly the wife of a j\Ir. Iluntsinger, a soldi-r in the war of the Revolution. Mrs. 2\Iillie Owens w^as born in Roann co.inty. North Carolina, on February 22, 1810, and was the daughter of George and Catherine Fisher, ^vho came to Indiana in 181 5, a year prior to the admission of the state to the union. ^.lillie Fisher was a woman of remar'^able character and h.-r descendants are numerous, there being forty-seven g:andchildrcn and thirty-one' great-grandchildren.

Fraternally, [Mr. Owens is a member of the Knights of Pythias, A/hile, religiously, he and his wife were active members of the First Baptist clmrch at Franklin, with vvhich Islr. Owens was long identified. Early in hi; life he became an ardent advocate of the Democratic party, and for many years has been active in its support. i\Ir. Owens is a quiet, unassuming man and it is useless to add that lie is highly respected by all who know him thr. aighout the l()Lalit_\- where he li\-es and where he has spent practicallv his ''utirclife, in all the relations of which he has been found faithful to every trust and, because of his sterling worth, uncompromising integrity, cou.rteous manners and pleasant disposition, he has won and retained the warm regard of all with whom he associates, the latter including the best people of this locality.

Fealty to facts in the analy/ation of the character of a citizen ('f the type of Gilbert Henderson, a well known and successful business man in Franklin and a progressive farnitr of that neighborhood, is all that is ret.uired to make ;i b.iographical sketch interesting tr. those who have at heart the good name of the community honored by his residence, because it is the hon >ralile reputation of the man of standing and affairs, more than any other considera- tion that gives character and stability to the body pohtic. While advancing his individual interests, he has never lost sight of his obligations to the community in general, where for many years he has held a high place in popular confidence and esteem.

Gilbert Plenderson was born in Johnson county, Indiana, on March ii, 1872, and is a son of James and Margaret (Vanarsdall) Henderson. James Henderson w^as born in Kentucky in 1823, the son of Thomas Henderson. In 1828, when but five years of age, he accompanied the family on their removal to Indiana, locating in Johnson county, where they followed agricultural pursuits. James Henderson, b}- a life of earnest and persistent endeavor, not only gained material prosprrit}-, but, also that which is more desirable, the respect and good will of all Avdio knew him. His death occurred in 1897 and his widow is now making her home with her cliildrcn. James Henderson was twice married, first to Mary Lagrange, the daughter of P. D, Lagrange and a sister of William La!;Tange, president of the First National Bank of Franklin. To that union were born four children, Fva. who died in youth; Robert C, who lives in Colorado; Anna, the wife of J. B. Tracy, and Clara, the wife of D. B. Winchester, of Indianapolis. After the death of hi:. first wife, Mr. Henderson married !\!;argaret Vanarsdall, and to this union were born three children, Gilbert, ?]lmer and Stella, tlie wife of J. B. Lemasters.

Gilbert Henderson received his preliminary education in the common schools of his home neighl)orhood, conpleting his studies in the high school at Hopewell. Then he became a student in Clark's School of Undertaking, later attending Eckell's School of Embalndng, at Louisville, Kentucky, and the Honshue School of Embalming at Richmond, Indiana, from all three of which he received diplomas. In T910 Mr. Henderson engaged in the undertakini,' business at Franklin, though prior to that time he had acquired some valuable practical experience with Covert & Covert, undertakers, at Hopewell. He is now^ a member of the firm of Henderson, Flynn &: Johnson, which has earned a reputation as one of the leading firms in its line in the county. Mr. Henderson is a man of marked ability, courteous in his relations with his patrons. and absolutely honest and straight for .vard in his dealings with others. He has been financially successful and is the owner of a splendid farm of sixtyfive acres, which he operates together with one hundred and thirty acres of rented land, in the management of vhich he has been rewarded with ver .- satisfactory returns.

party and has been actively interested in local public affairs. He is the present trustee of Franklin township and is discharging; his official duties to the entire satisfaction of his constituents. Fraternall}', he is a member of the Masonic order, in which he has attained to the Knight Templar degree, and is also a member of the ]\l(,)dern Woodmen of America.

In 1S97 Gill>ert Henderson was married to Emma Covert, the daughter of A. N. and Susan (McGill) Covert, and to them have been born five children, namely : Harold, who died at the age of two years ; JNIarjorie, Mildred. Marshall and Pauline, who arc at home with their parents. Personally, Mr. Henderson possesses to a marked degree those cpialities which beget and win friendships and he is deservedly popular in his home county.

Apbert N. Covert

Albert X. Covert, retired farmer and deputy assessor uf Johnson co.nity, -and who is numbered among the representative c^ti^en^ of his section of the state, was born in October, 1.S37, in I'ranklin township, and has therefore been a resident of Johnson county for the long period of more than three-qu; rtcrs of a century. He has been an eye witness and a particii)ant in the woucerful growth which has characterized this localit\- and no man in the county is 'oday held in higher regard. He is a son of John and Rachel (P.anta) Cover . natives, resp'cctivcly. of New Jersey and Kentucky. John Covert was born in 1784 and'died in 1864, and was the son of Isaac and Ann Covert, the ff rmcr of whom died in Kentucky and the latter in Indiana. The family is dcsc. nded from three brothers from.Hollan^l. who emigrated to New Jersey. Isaa: Covert disposed of his material eft'ects in Kentucky, but died there before leaving the state and his widow subsequently came to Indiana with the fnuily, John at that time being but a young man. A brother, Simon Covert, al ;o located at Plopewell. while another brother, Cornelius, located in that neighborhood. John was a charter member of the Hopewell Presbyterian church, which was "established in 1841. He was three times married, and to hi, first union were born the following children : Barney, Calvin, Cornelius, William and Ann "(Mrs. Walker) ; to the second union was born one son, Robert; while to the last union were born George L., A. N. and Mrs. Emma Cozii.e. of

A. N. Covert secured his education in the schools of the Hopewell neighborhood and in Hopewell Academy. He was reared to the vocation of farm- iiig, which he followed throughout his active life. For several years he lived on the home fann and cared for his father and mother in their last years. He was the owner of one hundred and twenty acres of splendid land, on which he resided until 1S69, when he bought a farm in the Hopewell neighborhood, residing there until 18S9, when he located on his present attractive little place of four acres. He is practically retired from active labor, but for the past twelve 3'cars he has rendered efficient service as deputy county assessor, and in 1900 he served as census enumerator for this district.

In 1862 Mv. Covert was married to Susan Magill, the daughter of Samuel and Julia ]\lagill, to which ur.ion have l;een born six children, three sons and three daughters, namely: AA'iilian.i C, who is pastor of the First Presbyterian church in Chicago, a congregation of sixteen hundred members; jXIrs. Luetta Lockwood, who resides near Southport, Indiana ; James Ci., a dairyman and farmer in Franklin township, this county: Mrs. Leila Eudora McCaslin ; Mrs. Emma Henderson : Omar, of Valparaiso. Indiana, a member of the Lyric Quartet, a cumpany of famous singers. His birth occurred in 1876.

In politics Mr. Covert is a member of the Progressive party, to which he gives his staunch support, while his religicius luembetship is with the Pres byterian church, of which he and his wife liavc been memliers since their childhood. In e-\-ery phase of life's activities in which he has engaged Mr. Covert has been true to e\ery trust and because of the genuine worth of his character he has earned and retains the sincere regard of all who know him.

William Flinn

One of the conspicuous names on the list of Johnson county agriculturists is William Flinn, proprietor of Hickory Grove farm in Nineveh township, a gentleman of high standing to whom has not been denied a full measure cf success. Long recognized as a factor of importance in connection with tie farming and stock-raising industries here, he has been prominently identified with the material growth and prosperity of this part of the state, his life having been closely interwoven with the history of the county where he has been content to liveand follow his chosen vocation for over a quarter of a century.

William Flinn, whose fine farm of one hundred and ninety-six acres s located partly in l^ranklin and partly in Xineveh township, this county,, \v;is born on August 8, 1871, about one and one-half miles west of his present home. His parents were Thomas and Elizabeth (Jones) Flinn, both of who:ri

Avere. natives of the state of Indiana. The father, who is now retired and living in the town of Franklin, was born in 1843, ^^^^' Cincinnati, Ohio, aiul is of Irish ancestry, his parents having been natives of the Emerald isle. Thomas Flinn was a soldier in the war of the Rebellion and was confined six months in Libby prison. To him and his wife were born nine children, of whom six are living, namely: Mrs. Gertrude Caywood, of Franklin; Charles, of Indianapolis; William, the subject of this sketch; }vlrs. Ellen Mulligan, of ^liami county, Indiana; Emma, who died in 1S93; Caroline, at home; Austin, of F'ranklin, and Opal and Etta, who are deceased.

William Flinn secured his education in the country schools of his home neighborhood and spent his youthful years in farm labor under the direction of his father. Shortly after his marriage, which occurred when he was twe ity-two years of age, he bought one hundred and twenty acres of land in Nineveh township, to which he has made additions from time to time, his last purchase having been in 1903. He is the owner of sixty-seven acres in Franklin township, and one hundred and twenty-nine acres in Nineveh tow iship, all of this comprising one of the best farms in this section of the county. Aside from his agricultural interests, Mr. Flinn has for many years been ;ai active dealer in live stock, in which he has met with eminent success. He feeds the grain grown on the farm to hogs, cattle and mules and annually handles about one hundred and fifty head of hogs, two car loads of cattle and has handled as high as three hundred head of mules annually. He is a good judge of all kinds of live stock and has made an eminent success of this li le of effort. Hc^ has given proper attention to the rotation of crops and has governed his operations on the farm by the most conservative and yet progressi/e ideas as to scientific farming, he being willing at all times to adopt ne \v -methods when their practicability has been demonstrated. He now has fortyfive acres planted to corn, thirty acres to wheat and will cut about sixty tois of clover and hay. He has a magnificent home surrounded by forest trees and, all in all. Hickory Grove farm is numbered among the inviting and attractive homes of the community..

In October, 1893, Air. Flinn was united in marriage to OIlie Mullendoie, a daughter of Lewis MuUendore, one of the prominent and well known pioncr citizens of this county. To this union have been born five children, Lee. M 1- dred. Glen, Paul and Alice Jeane.

Politically, the subject is a Progressive and, religiously, is a member of the Christian church, in which he ta!:es an active interest. Fraternally, lie is a member cf the Knights of Pythias. In addition to his long and creditable career in one of the most useful of callings, Mr. Flinn has proven an honorable member of the body politic; rising in the confidence and esteem of the public in every relation of life, he has never fallen belo\v the dignity of true manhood nor in any way resorted to methods that have invited criticism or censure. As a citizen he has easily ranked with the most influential of his compeers and is ever looking toward the betterment of his community. His course has ever been above suspicion and those who are intimately accjuainted with him are profuse in their praise of his upright character and true gentlemanly qualities.

William S. Ditmars

It is a well authenticated fact that success comes as the result of legitimate and well applied energj;, unflagging determination and perseverance in a course of action when once .decided upon. She is never known to smile upon the idler or dreamer and she never courts the loafer, and only the men who have diligently sought her favor arc crowned with her blessings. In tracing the history of the influentird farmer and representative citizen cf Franklin township, Johnson county, Indiana, whose name forms the caption of this review, it is plainly seen that the prosperity which he enjoys hf^s been won by commendable qualities and it is also his personal worth thrt has gained for him the high esteem of those who know him.

William S. Diimars, who is generally recognized as one of the most successful agriculturists of Johnson county, was born in this county on October 4, 1857, and is a son of Cornelius L. and 'Carolina (Banta) Ditmar >. He was reared under the paternal roof, assisted his father in the cultivation of the home farm, and during the winter seasons attended the common schools. He received a good practical education, which he completed with a three years' course in the high school. Air. Ditmars is the owner of ore hundred and twenty acres of splendid and fertile land in Franklin townshi[), and is also operating two hundred acres of his father's farm, the cultivation of the two tracts requiring his undivided time and attention, his efforts in the operation of v.hich have been rewarded with splendid success. He is a man of sound judgment and wide experience in his vocation and his oper;.- tions have always been characterized by progressive methods and persistei t spirit, so that he has been enabled to achieve maximum results with a minimum of effort. He gives due attention to the rotation of crops and other modern ideas in relation to agriculture, and in connection with the tilling c-f the. soil he also gives- a proper share of his attention to the raising of live stock, v.-hich is an inipcirtant and necessar\- adjunct to successful farnnng. On Dcceniher i6, 18S5, Mr. Ditmars was united in the holy bonds of wedlock with Minnie R. Graham, the daughter of David and Caroline (Adams) Graham. Her father was a native of Ohio, of which his family were early settlers, but later they came to Johnson county, Indiana. To Mr. apd Mrs. Ditmars ha\-e been born two children, James, born in July, 18SS, and Cort C., born in 1SS9. Politically, Mr. Ditmars has always given his support to the Republican party and in the civic life of the communit\ he has borne his full share of the burden, giving his support at all times to those movements and measures which liave promised to be of material Ijcnctlt to the people generally. He is a man of upright character and progressive spirit and is unalterably opposed to all forms of vice or lawlessness. j\rsonally, he is genial and unassuming, easily makes friends and always ret tins them, so that in the community in which he has spent his entire life he is one of the popukn- residents.

Chest.Ur T. Devore

The gentleman to whom the )'eader's attention is now directed v»as nrit favored by inherited wealth or the assistance of inlluential friends, bu. in spite of these, by perseverance, industr}- and a wise economy, he has atta ned 'a comfortable station in life, and is well and favorably known thrciugbiuiL Johnson county as a result of the industrious life he lias lived here for nauy years, being regarded by all who know him as a man of sound business principles, thoroughly up to date in a!l phases of agriculture and stock rai -hig and as a man who, while advancing his individual interests, does not neglect his general duties as a citizen.

Chester T. Dcvore, among whom none of the up-to-date agriculturists of Johnson county enjoys a higher reputation, was born in Clark towndiip on February 3. 1876, the son of John and Sarah (Chambers) Devore. the father a native of Johnson county and the mother born in Decatur, Indi ma. The subject's paternal grandfather, Thurrett Devore, was a native of I-xntucky, who -came to Johnson county among the early settlers and located near Shiloh, where he spent the remaii.der of his life. To the subject's i)ar^-nt,- were born the following children: One who died in infancy, Alice, Chester T., Otis and Merle, the two last named being deceased. John Devore folInAed practical farming during his entire life and was successful in this calling to i. gratifying degree, being numbered among the enterprising and highly respected residents of this section of the county.

The subject of this sketch was reared by his parents and secured his elementary education in the common schools of Clark township, completing his scholastic training at Franklin College, which he attended two years. Immediately after completing his education, IMr. Devore applied himself vigorously to the vocation of farming, in which he has been eminently successful and achieved gratifying financial remuneration for his efforts. In addition to the raising of all the crops conlmon to this section of the country, including the breeding and feeding of live stock, in which he has also been successful, Mr. Devore has given a good deal of attention to the raising of pure bred poultry, operating what is known as Glenbrook Poultry Farm, where he raises the finest bred Barred Plymouth Rock chickens to be found in this section of the state, and also Black Cochin Bantams. He keeps none but the best breeds, and through them, has won seven silver trophies as medals and innumerable ribbons at exhibitions. He also makes a specialty of seed corn, the two varieties \\ hich meet his approval being the Johnson County White and the Yellow Dent. He is careful in his selection of this corn and sells at a fancy price all that he can raise.

Politically, ]\lr. Devore is aii ardent ad\ocate of the policies of the Progressive party and took an active interest in the last campaign. His frateniU relations are with the Knights of the Maccabees, and his cluuxh meniljcrsh'p IS v.Uh the J!ai)tist, to which societ\- he contributes lilierally.

On J\Iay 12, 1S98, Mr. Devore married Bertha INIay Kelly, the daughter of Andrew Taylor and Phoebe Jane (Lowe) Kelly. The father was a nati 'e of Johnson county, as well as his wife, their people having come fro.n Kentucky to this state in an early day, locating in Clark township. To Andrtv/ and Phoebe Kelly were born five children, naniel}' : Samuel L., Robert K., Clara IVL, Bertha ]\lay and Ossie Ethel. The mother of these children is still living, the father being deceased. To Air. and Mrs. Devore have been born two children, Chester H., deceased, and Freda Mzy, who is at home with her parents. In the pul^lic life of the community where he lives, [Mr. Devore has long taken a prominent part and intelligent interest, and is now serving a:- a member of the advisory board of Clark township, where he is rendering efficient service in the interests of the people. He is a man of strong charac er and acknowledged ability and, because of these elements and his genuine p-'rsonal worth, he enjoys a marked popularity in the locality where he lives.

Alvin Gilbert Hicks

The best title one can establish to the high and generous esteem of an intelligent community is a protracted and honorable residence therein. The subject of this sketch, who has spent the major portion of his life in Franklin, has, because of his earnest and consistent life and his high attainments in his special line of endeavor, earned the sincere respect and good opinion of all who know- him.

Alvin G. ?Iicks was born in Franklin, Indiana, on February 23, 1851, and is a son of Royal S. and Mary G. (Keen) Hicks. His father, who was a nati\e of Switzerland county, Indiana, was a lawyer by vocation, but also devoted considerable attention to the newspaper business, having for many years published the U'eckly Donocraf at Rockport, Indiana. He served efficiently as deputy state auditor under Major Dunn, and also was clerk of Spencer county for eight years, pcrformiug all of his public and official duties io the entire satisfaction of all concerned and earning a high reputation as a man of abilit}' and honor. In the profession of law he was successful and continued in the acti\-e practice until ':n\ death, v.liich fcrurred in 1884.

.Alvin G. Hicks received hi.; education mainly in the public schoi:ils of Spencer county, attending the Rockport schjols until se\enteen years of age, when, ambitious to take up life's battle on his own account, he engaged in the business of photography, to the pursuit of which he has devoted liimself ever since, a period of forty-five /ears. His apprenticeship was served under John Xicholsrin, one of the mo:^t .^xjiert and. artistic photographers of h\> d;iy, and the high ideals gained by Mr. Hicks at tliat period have never been laid aside, he having made at all times a faithful and conscientious effort to turn out nothing but the \-ery be^t work. His reputation as an original and painstaking artist in photography has long been firmly established throughout this section of the state, and his matrons come from many of the neighboring counties. Many of the engravings in this work have been reproduced from photographs made by Mr. Hicks, who has thus in a large measure contributed to the success of this department .^f the work.

Politically, Islr. Hicks is an earnest supporter of the Democratic party, and takes a commendable interest in public affairs, though in no sense a ;,ecker after public office. Fraternally, he is a member of Hesperian Lodge No. 12, Knights of Pythias. Socially, he is a man of pleasing address and, because

Alvin G. Hicks Ira E. Vandivier

One of Nineveh township's agriculturists and stock men who is deserving of a place in this book is Ira E. Vandivier, a man of courage, self-reliance and of the utmost integrity of purpose, as a result of which he has. during his entire life, stood high in tlie estimation of his neighbors and friends, whosi interests he has sought to promote while endeavoring to advance his own.

Ira E. Vandivier, who is a representative of one of the most numerous and representative families of Johnson county, w-as born in this county on th: -1st day of December, 1863, and is a son of Alfred and Laura (Branigin) Vandivier, the father a native also of this county. Specific mention of tlu Vandivier family appears elsewhere ia this work, therefore space will not b: taken for a repetition, of the same hce. The subject's parents had five children: Ina E., John. Edward, Lorie and Lina M., who became the wife of Charles Eeastcr.

The su.bject of this sketch recei\ed a good common school education i 1 his home community and then became a student in Eranklin College. Ther , desiring to better prepare himself for his life work, he took a course of training in the old Bryant and Stratton Business College at Indianapolis, on the completion of which he took up the vocation of farming, to which he has since given his undivided attention. He has carried or. a di\ersificd system of agr-- culture, raising all the crops common to this section of the country, and ha^ in addition given considerable attention to dealing in ]i\e stock, principal!/ mules and cattle, in which also he has met with success. He is the owner of four hundred and fort\- acres of as good land as Nineveh township) possesses, and in the cultivation of this he has exercised wise discriminatioi , sound judgment and e.xccllent taste, the appearance of his place reflectinggreat credit on the owner.

In 1888 Mr. Vandivier was united in marriage with Ella M. Eorsytht , the daughter of James P. and Mary Jane (Core) Forsythe, the father being a native of Johnson county and a member of one of the earliest families who came here from Kentucky. To the subject and his wife have been born si^ children. Fred F., Hugh E., Orris A., Harry G., Ira Elba and Justin Edgar.

-is now giving his support to the Progressive wing of the part}-. He takes an intelligent interest in all public afTairs and on the current issues of the day he holds decided opinions. He is a man who gives his support to all movements which have for their object the advancement of the public welfare. As a member of the Christian church, he takes a commendable interest in spiritual affairs and gives his liberal support to the material advancement of the society to which he belongs. Personally, ]Mr. Yandivicr is well liked by all who know him. His home farm is one of the best improved in the township, for he has been ;nost vigilant in keeping it up to a high standard in every respect. Success has attended his efforts because he has worked for it along legitimate lines and has not permitted discouvaging situations to thwart him and has been honest and fearless in pursuing a course when he knew he was in the right.

In every community are to be found individuals who, by reason of pronounced ability and forceful personality, rise superior to the majority and command the homage of their fellows; who, by revealing to the world the two resplendent virtues, perseverance in effort and directing purpose, never fail to attain positions of honor and trust and become in the full sense of the term leaders of men. Of this cla;s is the well known gentleman arid svccessful lawyer whose name appears above, a man who ranlcs among the leading citizens of Johnson county and who for a number of years has borne an influential part in the affairs of the city and county in which he resides.

George I. White is descended from sterling old Hoosier ancestry, and was born in Nineveh township, Johnson county, Indiana, on the i ,th of October, 1870. He is the son of George Boyd and Rachel I. (Lane) 'A'liite, the father a native of Shelby county, Kentucky, and the mother of Bartholomew county, Indiana. The father, who was a farmer by vocation, c^me to Johnson county in young manhood and spent the remainder of his life in Nineveh township except four years in Franklin, when he was performing the duties of county connnissioner, to which office he had been, elected in 1870. He was born on July 16, 1S16, and died on December 29. 1SS5, while his wife, who was born XovemI er 29, 1827, died on Alarch 22, igi( . To him and his wife were born children, of whom six are living, three having died in infancy. Jacob \\'hite, who died on ^Ma}- 13, 1SS9, was the prosecuting attorney of Johnson county for two term? and a member of tfte lower house of the state Legislature for two terms during the years 1887 tjD tSSg; Silas A. lives on the home farm in Nineveh township; Edward R, who died on October r.3, 1:902, was also an attorney by profession and had served as county attorney and as deputy county clerk; Mary D., Viola, Miartha Ji. ; William W. lives on a farm south of Franklin, and is the father 0f tliree children.

George I. White, the immediate subject of this sketch, lived on the paternaT farmstead until the fall of 18S9, when he accompanied his mother on her rcmovat to Franklin, He had received his elementary education in the schools of Nine\eh township and in th<; high school at Franklin, and completed his scholastic training in Franklin College. He then engaged in teaching school for one year and then decided co follow the vocation of a lawyer, to which end he entered upon his legal stvdies in the office of Buckingham & White in 1894. On November 8th of that year he was admitted to the bar and tnriTiediately formed a law partnership with his brother, Edward F. Wlu'te, under the firm name of White & White, a partnership existing until bis brotber'^s death. After that event be formed a law partnership with Fred R. Owens, which still exists and wjich is numbered among the strong legal firms of Johnson county. I\Ir. White gives his attention to general practice, although he makes a specialty of work in probate court, for which he has especially qualified himself and in which he has achieved a noted success. He was county attornc}- of Johnson county for three years, in which position be gave eminent satisfaction, and in 1905-7 was a member of the lower house of the Indiana Legislature, having been elected on the Democratic ticket. In 1907, Governor Hanly appointed Mr. White a member of the legislative visitation committee to visit the state institutions, and in tlie discharge of this duty he rendered valu ible ser\-ice to the state. For years Mr. White has stood high in bis profession and, as already indicated, has met with gratifying success. Flis name has appeared in connection with much important litigation, in addition to which he does a large and lucrative office business, being esteemed and honorable, as well as an able lawyer, faithful to the interests of his client and above the suspicion of reproach as a counsellor. As a business man he is prompt and methodical, as a lawyer careful and critical, and as a private c'tizen, a man of unbending integrity and unfaltering conscientiousness.

On November 7, 1905, Mr. White was united in marriage to Leila L. Lagrange, a daughter of P. D. and Margaret B. Lagrange, of Johnson countv, and to them has been born one child, Pauline ^largaret.

Religiously, Mr. White is a member of the Christian church, in the activities of which he has taken a deep interest. He served as deacon for six or seven years, and for the past five years has been elder. His social relations are with the Delta Theta college fraternity, of which he was an active n.ember in school. A man of high ideals, social and of affable address, Mr. White is popular with all classes throughout the county, where he is well known, and because of his genuine worth, high character and personal integrity, he is eminently deserving of representation in a work of the character of the one at hand.

One of the best known and most enterprising of the younger agriculturists of Johnson county is Edward Hill, now in the very prime of life and usefulness, and his influence as an honorable, upright citizen is productive of much good upon all with whom ht comes in contact. His past success gives assurance of something yet to cone, and he is c^ idcnLly destined to continue a potent factor for substantia good for many years to come. He is the owner of fine farming lands in Johnson county, which he conducts in a manner that stamps him as fully abrerst of the times.

Edward Hill", one of the most successful farmers in Blue River township, Johnson county, Indiana, wss born on November 5, 1873, in Shelby county, this state, and is the son of John and Margaret (Leslie) Hill, natives respectively of Bartholomew count}', Indiana, and Edinburg, Johnson county. They were the parents of five children, Ida, Edward, Manuel, Jesse and Gertrude.

The subject of this sketch r<;ceived a good, practical common-school education and was reared to the life of a farmer, a vocation which he has never forsaken. In 1898 he moved to Johnson county, and for thirteen years resided on the T. E. Valentine farm, to the operation of which he gave his undivided attention. In February, 1904, he purchased his present farm in Blue River township, and for a number of year> successfully conducted both farms, moving to his present home in 1906, where he has since resided. IT is place is well improved in every respect, the improvements comprising a nice residence, substantial barn and other necessary outbuildings, and he has twenty-five acres sown to rye and se/enteen acres to corn. His annual output of live stock comprises two hundred hogs and he also has fifty head of cattle on his place- He gives proper attention to the rotation of crops and raises all the cereals common to this locality, and because of his eminent success and his intelligent conduct of his affairs he is deserving of the high regard in which he is held among his fellow agriculturists.

In January, 1S92, the subject of this sketch was united in marriage to Ada Ensley, and to them have been born eight children : Ollie, Florence, Frank, Ruby, Ruth, Oscar and Arthur, twins, and Edward.

Politically, the subject is a supporter of the Democratic party, which ticket he has voted since attaining his majority, while, fraternally, he is a member of the Edinburg lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, in the workings of which he takes a deep interest. Mr. Hill is wide awake to the best interests of the community and gives a whole hearted support to all movements for the good of his fellows. Fie has a wide acquaintance and is well liked by all who know him.

Edgar D. Brewer

Among the enterprising, progressive and successful farmers of Pleasant township, Johnson county, Indiana, is the gentleman whose name appears at the head of this sketch, who is the owner of one hundred and sixteen acres of land splendidly located near Whiteland, and who has, because of his progressive agricultural methods, his eminent business ability and his fine personal character, won the warm regard of all who know him. His attractive home, which is set in the midst of a spacious and well-kept lawn, reached by a beautiful drive, fronts on the interurban line and is a very attractive prospect to the passerby. Mr. Brewer has spent his entire life in this locality and those who know him best are w^armest in their praise of his good qualities.

Mr. Brewer was born on March 25, 1850, about one and one-half miles south of Whiteland, and is a son of Daniel Brewer, a native of Kentucky, who was born in 1814 and died in 1887. Daniel was the son of Daniel A. Brewer, who was a pioneer settler of Pleasant township and came to this county in 1832, filing on one hundred and sixty acres of land adjoining the subject's farm in Pleasant township. He also entered, other large tracts of land, owning over one thousand acres in this county. The subject's father received a tiact of land by inheritance and was c prosperous and successful fanner, owning over six hundred acres of land during his life time. Fie was married four times, first to Mary Jane Banta, a daughter of Captain Banta, a pioneer of this county, her death occurring two years after marriage in 1837.

To them were born two children, one of whom is deceased, the survivor being- Mrs. Wilhani L. LaGrange, of Frankhn. For his second wife Mr. Brewer chose Magdalene Ditniars, who was born in 1827 and died in x-\pril, iS6_'. They became the parents' of four children, two of whom died young, the others being Edgar, the subject of this sketch, and Margaret, the wife of P. D. LaGrange. Daniel Brewer's third wife was Olive McClintock, who di^jd one year after marriage, and his fourth wife was Lucrctia Beazley, who died May 17, 1910.

Edgar D. Brewer received his education in the public schools and in the Flopewell Academy, and in 1869 he engaged in the mercantile busin^.'ss in partnership with R. V. Ditrnars, of Franklin, in which he remained until 1S71. Fie then returned to his farm, where he has since lived. For the first three years, or until 1874, he was with his father uu the farm, and from 1874 until 1881 he lived on the old Brewer place, locating on his present farm in the latter year. He has been an industrious and persistent worker, his aim l.ieing to maintain his place at the highest possible state of excellence and in the achie\-ement of this ideal he has been eminently successful, his farm now being considertd one of the best in the locality. Fie follow^ modern methods of agriculture and leaves no detail unattended to in his mauageni'Mil of the ])lace. His splendid home, commodious barns and other appurtenances of an up-to-date farm indicate him to be a man of good judgment and sour.>\ discrimination.

On October ji. 1873. Mr. Brewer married Sarah M. Beaslcy, dauglter of Augusta and Sallie Ann (Webb) Beasley, natives of Virginia v.;ho emigraud from that stale to Kentucky, the subject's marriage occurring in the latter state. To the subject and his wife have been born four children, nrmely: Mrs. Norma Pitman, of Indianapolis, who is the mother of three ch Idrcn, Sallie Ann, Edgar Nelson and Norma Elizabeth; J. D., who resides on the home farm, is the father of two children, William Ditrnars and Charles Donald; Mrs. Neva Sharp, of ^^'hiteland, is the mother of a son, Thomas IMgar, and Magdalena, who is at home with her parents.

Politically, Mr. Brewer has given a life-long support to the Demc»cratic party and has taken an intelligent interest in all public affairs. Religiously, he gives his support to the Presbyterian church, of which he is a faithful member a"nd to which he contributes liberally of his means. In all the relations of life he has proved a man among men and because of his sterling personal qualities and of his staunch integrity he is deserving of the confidence which has been placed in him by his fellow men.

Conspicuous among the representative men and public-spirited citizens of Johnson county is the well known gentleman whose name forms the caption of this article. He has made his influence felt for good in his community hi Franklin township, being a man of sterling worth, whose life has been closely interwoven with the history of the community in which he resides and whose efforts have always been for the material advancement of the same, as well as for the social and moral welfare of his fellow men, and the well regulated life he has led, thereby gaining the espect and admiration of all his fellow citizens, entitles him to representation in a biographical work of the scope intended in the present work.

Peter D. I^aGrange, who owns a farm on the State road in Franklin township, Johnson county, Indiana, nas boi'n on September 15, 1849, i'^ the Hopewell neighborhood and is a son of Aaron and Catherine (Ba'nta) La- Grange. The subject's mother died on the day he was born and his father subsequently married Mary List. .Aaron LaGrange, who was of French descent, reared four children by his hrst wife: Mrs. Alary Ellen Covert, the wife of Dr. G. W. Covert, of Loi g Beach, California; Albert and Isaic Newton, of P'ranklin, and Peter D., the immediate subject of this sl:etch. IJ}- his marriage with Mary List the following children v.-ere born: IMrs. BeUe Brewer, Mrs. Josephine Ransdell, deceased, Rosa, deceased, ?vJrs. Susie Mc- Cain, of Franklin, and Samuel, also c f Franklin.