Kosciusko County, Indiana - The whole text, 1887 (part 21 of 21)

The village has a population of 500 inhabitants, and the retail trade is very hicrative to men in business. Silas Ketring, John W. Stetler and A. F. Bright represent the business in general merchandise; Harry Sterling and Isaac Ketring in groceries; M. J. Rippey, hardware; drugs, A. F. Bright, W. J. Brady & Son ; physicians, F. M. Ihrig, A. R. Collar and J. Bowser; attorneys, Messrs. Kay & Miles. Oliver Cromwell is the genial postmaster, who, as a reward for faithful services during the late war, and who yet carries in his head a rebel bullet as a reminder of the battle of Vicksburg, was remembered by liis party in 1885. His daughter Mary is his assistant.

The Methodist people completed a line brick church in the autumn of 1886, at a cost of §2,500. The membership is snuill, but is ably ministered to by Rev. Carpenter. The Church of God has a membership of 100, Rev. I. S. Markly, of Columbia City, presiding at the sacred desk. Sixty scholars attend the Sabbath-school connected with this church.

Syracuse is not a noted summer resort, but several line hotels are situated in the vicinity, overlooking Turkey Lake. The most noted of these belongs to the Cedar Beach Association, and has accommodations for 200 guests. This is situated on the northeast side of the lake, and has beautiful grounds artistically arranged, and the proprietors have an elegant steainer and sail boats of every description for the pleasure and entertainment of their guests.

"Conkling Hill," of which J. A. Kindig is i>roprietor, fronts the northwest end of Turke}' Lake. His hotel is an attractive one, and the grounds are beautifully shaded.

Jones, who also owns a picturesque hotel fronting the lake on the north. She has a large number of pleasure boats, among which is a steamer with a capacity for carrying 100 passengers.

The "Sulphur Springs" hotel is the property of Mrs. Hartwell. The numerous springs are rapidly becoming noted for their medicinal virtues, and her hotel is crowded during the season.

This township was organized March 8, 1838, and the large portion of prairie land caused the early settlers to locate. The northern boundary is Jefferson; east. Plain; south, Harrison, and west, Etna Township. Jacob Smith and wife are the only couple of the original settlers yet living. The first to locate was John Powell, March 31, 1833, and his cabin, erected on section 21, was the first in the township*. Four days later came James H. Bishop, and settled on section 1. Jacob Smith the same summer settled on section 13. James Garvin, Samuel D. Hall and William Bowman came in 1835. The first was afterward elected Representative, S. D. Hall to the State Senate, and William Bowman erected a forge and was the first blacksmith in the township. All were good men, and were alike respected. In 1835 Dr. Harper settled in the township, and for many years practiced his profession, and as most of the pioneer doctors were obliged to do, received his pay in anj'thing that could be disposed of, furs, i)elts, etc., being staple as cash.

1840, which was attached to the Leesburgh circuit. Tiiis denomination built tiie first liouse for public worship (a hewed log building), which was destroyed by tire a few months later. In 1843 a frame cluirch was erected on section 17. About the time the frame church was built, another eliurch of the Methodist faith was organized at the house of Elisha Dunnnck. They met for worship at his residence for a number of years, and in 1859 erected a frame church building on section 6, which was dedicated by Rev. J. Coldclazer the same year, and Rev. James Doiuihoe placed in charge of the congregation, which was then made a part of the Atwood charge. The church is known as Pleasant View Methodist Episcopal Church, and the Sunday-school that was organized with Elisha Dunnnck as superintendent, on the day the church was dedicated, has been uniformly prosperous to this date.

Feli.x Miller laid out this village in 1846, and a general store was opened the same year by Eli Summy and William Biggs. It is a small village with a fertile country surrounding, which supports well those who are engaged in the mercantile trade.

Felix Miller donated a lot for a church building, and the United Brethren erected a house of worship in 1877. Galveston is known as " Clunette," that being the name of the postoffice. It is a small hamlet, and unimportant in a business sense.

ETNA TOWNSHIP. Etna Township is bounded on the north by Scott, east by Prairie and Harrison townships, soutli by the Tippecanoe River, and west by Marsliall County. The settlement was not so early in this as in some other tow-nships, the first locations being made by Solomon Klingerman, Charles Rockbill and Itobei't Reed in 1843. The same year the Bowmans, Abraham and William, settled near the first, all near where the village of Etna Green is located. From 1850 until the war began Etna Township rapidly improved, and a large settlement was made. It is now a productive region, and the farmers are prosperous. The first tow'nship election was held in Etna Green in 1853; Joel Letfel was elected Justice of the Peace, and Samuel B. Gay, Constable.

David Carr and Levi Keeler were proprietors of the town, and laid it out in 1853. Keeler erected a store building and put in a stock of goods the same year. He was also appointed postmaster, the oflice being established in 1854.

David Carr built a mill in 1852 at this place, the first in the township. A school was established in 1854, and Miss Stallaid was the teacher. Etna Green now has a good school building with 156 pupils in attendance. Professor Joseph M. Gaskill, Principal; Miss Kitt Ruscher, Intermediate, and Miss Blanch Lutes in charge of the Primary Department. J. F. Andrews, M. J. Hamlin and A. C. Jordan are school trustees.

Etna Green is an incorporated village, having a population of 380. The trustees are: James CuUison, AVilliam L. AYood and Joseph T. Lefi'el. Henry W. Graham, Clerk; John B. Hire, Treasurer, and Anthony F. Leffel, Marshal. Samuel Melick is the genial postmaster, whose appointment was made October 25, 1885.

There are three cluirch buildings in the village, the Methodist Episcopal, United Brethren and Disciples. liev. Civet has charge of tlie Hrst, liev. Somers uf the second, and Ilev. Burroughs of the Disciples congregation.

Jubilee Lodge, No. 268, I. O. O. F., was organized JVoveuiber 20, 18G6. The present officers are: James \Yatson, Noble Grand; James Cullison, Vice-Grand; William E. Gay, Recording Secretary; William E. Baker, Permanent Secretary; Ed F. Shiun, Treasurer. The lodge is in a prosperous condition, with a membership of thirty-live. The Odd Fellows own a substantial two-story building, the second floor of which was fitted especially for lodge purposes. As an adjunct to this society there is a lodge of Daughters of Rebecca, which has quite a large membership.

The officers were: Thomas A. Smailes, Commander; J. F, Andrews, Senior Vice- Commander; A. N. Leland, Junior Vice- Commander; William li. Bowman, Quartermaster; H. W. Graham, Adjutant; II. M. Swigart, Surgeon; William E. Baker, Officer of the Day; Thomas Copeland, Officer of the Guard.

The post has had seventy-six names on the muster roll, but transfers to other posts has reduced the membership to forty-six. The officers elect for the current year are as follows: William E. Baker, Commander; Jacob Silvins, Senior Vice-Commander; David Poor, Junior Vice-Commander; J. F. Andrews, Quartermaster; H. W. Graham, Adjutant; W. M. Kelly, Surgeon; Daniel Hand, Officer of the Day; James Watson, Officer of the Guard.

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP. was organized March 8, 1838. Elkhart County bounds it on the north. Van Buren Township on the east, Prairie and Scott Townships on the south, and Scott Township on the west. One small village, Gravelton, was laid out by David Brumbaugh in 1826 on the line of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. Tiie same year Mr. Brumbaugh opened a stock of general merchandise, and a postoffice was established with Levi Miller, postmaster. Gravelton contains only a few houses and is an unimportant village. The first settler in the township was Jacob Brumbaugh, who with his family located October 1, 1836, and erected a log cabin. Later in the same year James Simpson, James Martin, Andrew Sheeley, John Leatherman and George Platter, with their families, located on sections 1 and 2 north of the large marsh adjoining the Elkhart County line.

The next summer, Joseph Alexander, Isaac Bliven, David and Samuel McKibbin, with their families, made a settlement on the south side of the marsh. *

The first township election was held at the house of David McKibbin in April, 1888, David McKibbin, inspector. Only five votes were cast, four of wiiich were illegal, the voters not having been residents tlie time required by law. The single vote of Isaac Bliven, elected a justice of the peace, constable, two road supervisors, three overseers of the poor and the inspector of elections.

John, son of Andrew and Mary Sheely, was the first white child born in the township. A child of Isaac and Mrs. Hall died in 1837 and the same day the death of Nancy Crevison occurred. Both were buried on the farm of Jacob Brumbaugh.

David Cripe. John Leatherman and wife, and "William Brumbaugh and wife were the iirt-t members. From the date of organization until the death of John Leatherman in 1867, he was pastor of the congregation. This society erected a church at Gravelton in 1876, and is in a fairly prosperous condition.

In 1838 a Methodist class was organized on the south side of the marsh bj Rev. Ockerman. David McKibbin was for many years class-leader but they were unaljle to maintain a pastor. The first class had the following members, David, Mary, Samuel and Elizabeth McKibbin. Mary and Eve Miller and Ellinor J. Alexander. The organization disbanded in 1864.

The Evangelical Association completed a church building in 1877, and regular services are held. James Martin taught the first school in a log building erected on section 11, in 1S40. There ai-e now eight schools in the township, with 436 scholars in attendance.

was originally a [)art of Jefferson Township, and was organized March 7, 1848. It is bounded on the north by Elkhart County, east by Jefferson Township, south by Etna Township and west by Marshall County. Caspar Hepler and family, Jacob Hepler, Jacob and Henry Yockey were the first settlers, and their location was made on section 11 in the autumn of 1837. The townshii) settled slowly and for two years these pioneers were without neighbors. They made improvements as rapidly as possible and reaped a small crop in 1838.

Township. John Haddock taugl)*- school in a log cabin that stood on the p.c^sent site of the Zinn school-house, in 1840. Dr. John AV. Love practiced his profession in this township at an early day and was for many years a resident physician.

William B. Jones and J. D. Koffel were the first merchants of Scott Township. The latter was also the first postmaster at Millwood, a postoffice being established in 1853. There are six schools in this township with 341 scholars enrolled. Two very small villages, Millwood and Ilepton, are located in Scott Township. The postmaster of Millwood is rather an important personage not only in that place, but also in this county, he being Drainage Commissioner." Some excellent lands lie in Scott Township, and her farmers an noted for enterprise.

Washington was organized in March, 1838. The northern boundary is Tippecanoe Township, east, Whitley County, south, Whitley County and Monroe Township, west, Wayne Township.

The first settlers were John Makemson and his brother Vincent. They erected the first house built in the townshii) on section 3 in the spring of 1885, and the same autumn Vincent Makemson erected the second house in the township. In 1836 Henry Hoover, John McNeal, George and Henry Somerville, Samuel Firestone, William Moore, and others with their families came, and the close of 1837 found John Hoover, Robert McNeal, James Crouch and many others, all of whom came with tlie determination of making a home in the new country. The first election was held at the house of Martin Braysted in April, 1838, and Lewis Keith was elected justice of the peace.

Morris P. Chaplin was married to Miss Sarah A. Morris in 1840, and later, in the same year, his sister, Mary Chaplin, became the wife of Adam Laing. These were the first marriages in the township.

The first public house was built upon the Ryerson homestead in 1839, and was for many years in charge of G. W. llyerson. He planted the first orchard in the township in 1841, having raised tlie young trees from seed obtained in Fort Wayne. The first postofhce was also established at his house in 1837, George Kyerson, postmaster; his son Ira, deputy postmaster. The Fort Wayne & Chicago Koad was surveyed in 1837, and passed the house of Mr. llyerson. The mail was carried on horseback between the points named, and the postman's arrival was a great event at that early day. Lewis Keith, one of the founders of Pierceton, was one of the most prominent men of that time, being miller, blacksmith, justice of the peace and general adviser in a legal, social and theological way. In 1853 he erected the first hewed-log house in the township, which was afterward used as a tavern, and stood on lot 1, block 15, in the original town pilat of Pierceton.

A log school-house was erected in 1840 on the farm of Daniel Firestone, and the same year Adam Laing taught the first term of school. The scholars paid tuition to Mr. Laing, the free school system not being established until 1851. Washington Township has now twelve school districts outside

The first religious services was the funeral sermon preached by Rev. William Devinney, a Methodist Episcopal missioiuiry, at the house of John Bratt, the occasion referred to was the first death in the township.

The first church society organized was the Methodist, at the house of Robert McNeal in 1838, and for five years religious services were held at his house. In 1851 Mr. McNeal donated a lot, and a frame church was erected by the Methodist society, and until the organization of the Methidist Episcopal church at Pierceton the society was in a prosperous condition. The church was sold in 1872, and the congregation concenti'ated at Pierceton.

The Dunkard church, known as the Washington Congregation, was organized December, 1860, by elders Metzgar, LTllery and Brumbaugh, at the residence of Samuel S. Leedy, with twenty-one members. Services were held at private residences and in school houses until the purchase of the Baptist church in 1866. That society was practically disbanded. The Dunkard members numbered seventy. The church is located two and onehalf miles north of Pierceton. Levi Workman was the first minister chosen from their congregation. This church has a membership of 150, and a fine brick church has recently been erected three and one-half miles northeast of Warsaw. Jesse Calvert, A. H. Puterbaugh, H. II. Brallier and Levi Stone are present pastors.

Kosciusko station is a small hamlet possessing but little commercial importance, situated on the line of the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad. There is a postofiice, a blacksmith-shop, and small stores where farmers can obtain general merchandise. The iiostoffice is known as " Wooster."

This, the second largest town in the county, was laid out December 6, 1852, by Lewis Keith and John B. Chapman, on the north part of the northwest quarter of section 27, and christened Pierceton, in honor of President Franklin Pierce.

John B. Chapman, one of its founders, inaugurated business enterprise by opening a general stock of merchandise in a small log house, on a farm outside the now corporate limits of the town. In 1853 three frame buildings were erected, and in the one which occupied the present site of the building owned by Lawrence Spayde & Co., a postoffice was established in 185'4, with O. P. Smith as postmaster. Dr. William Hayes, one of the first medical men in the town, succeeded Smith as postmaster in 1855. Dr. Baker and William Conant erected a sash and door manufactory in 1864. Before it was long in operation Dr. Baker sold his interest to John Moore, who in 1872 purchased Conant's interest. Owing to his death this has been closed for two years.

The Pierceton " Roller Process " Flouring Mills were erected in 1862, by Michael Murray, at a cost of 818,000. The firm of D. Balliet & Strauce Bros, now operate the same.

John L. Douglass owns and operates the saw and planing mill; Kirkland & Son the chair factory; T. W. O'Brien is a manufacturer of wagons and buggies on quite an extensive scale, and the principal dealer in grain is Samuel Snj'der, who began business in 1877.

opera house. The stage is 18 x 35, and the appurtenances thereto are quite elaborate. With an expenditure of a few hundred dollars, the doctor has given Pierceton an opera house of no mean pretensions, as it seats comfortably 400 people.

The People's Bank was opened in April, 1885, by W. C. Matchett, and is of great convenience to the business men of the town. It does a general banking business, and succeeds the "Citizens' Bank." which was organized in 1876.

Pierceton Lodge JS'o. '257, I. 0. 0. F., received its charter iJ-.y 16, 1866, and held its first meeting July 17 of that year. The first ofiicers were: D. M. Shoemaker, Noble Grand; John Shaffer, Vice Grand: W. H. Spayde, Recording Secretary; Jacob Klingel, Treasurer. Eli Hayden. George Watts and N. B. Morland were also charter members. The lodge room with all contents, also the records, were destroyed by tire August 26, 1878, but meetings were held in the Universalist church until another building was made ready for occupancy. The lodge is very prosperous, and the following are the officers for this term: J. F. Logan, Noble Grand; J. C. Lilly, Vice Grand; T. J. Heagy, Recording Secretary; C. D. Snyder, Permanent Secretary; F. H. Foster, Treasurer. There are 122 members, and the lodge-room is tastily furnished.

records were destroyed bj fire on the occasion previously mentioned. William H. Spayde was the tirst Scribe, and E. i\. Eddy first Treasurer. There are thirty-three members, twenty-eight Past Chief Priests and iifteen Past High Priests, belonging to this encampment, whose officers in December, 1886, were: J. 0. Lilly, Chief Priest; E. J. McAlpine, Senior Warden; Jacob Klingle, Junior Warden; E. H. Poster, Scribe; J. R. Shanton, Treasurer, and T. A. Hoover, High Priest. The first initiations were made June 30, 1870, J. M. Minnidi, Marquis R. Bishop, Jonathan Thatcher, Thomas Cretcher, George W. Starr, David Kufiel, A. C. Engle and John K. Eldor becoming members of the encampment.

Picreeton Lodge, JVo. 377, A. F. ^1. J/., was organized June 20, 1868. The first officers elect were: Henry H. Sweet, Worshipful Master; William A. Babcock, Senior Warden; John G. Waldo, Junior Warden; Dwight P. Nichols, Secretary; William Sherburn, Treasui'er; Jerome Potter, Senior Deacon; Uriah Rnch, Junior Deacon; David Johnston, Tyler. There is a large membership, and the order has a nicely-furnished lodge-room over the postoffice. Officers for 1886: H. 0. King, Worshipful Master; L. S. Foster, Senior Warden; Josiah Trump, Junior Warden; E. Eadclifte, Secretary; William McNamara, Treasurer; L. B. Snyder, Senior Deacon; Dr. C. R. Long, Junior Deacon; Hiram Finton, Tyler; A. R. Johnson and A. M. Johnston, Stewards.

Pierceton Chapter, No. 56, Order of the Eastern Star, was organized July 8, 1884, with twenty-five members. Tliis now includes many of the most prominent ladies and gentlemen upon its roster, which now shows a total of fifty-six members. The officers elect in December, 1886, were as follows: Mrs. E. Moore, W. M.; S. S. Eater, W. P.;

Mrs. (). Palmer, A. M.; Mrs. M. Bate, Secretary; Mrs. C. Clemens, Treasurer; Mrs. J. Miller, Con.; Mrs. I). Moody, A. Con.; Mrs. William McNainara, W. ; H. Finton, Sergeant. The ladies comprising the star are: Miss I. Spayde, Ada; Mrs. A. M. Johnston, Ruth; Mrs. Mary Brusnaham, Esther; Mrs. D. Balliett, Martha; Mrs. W. C. Moore, Electa.

John Murray Post, No. liil^, G. A. R., was mustered December 28, 1882, by Colonel R. S. Robertson, of Fort Wayne, with twentyeight charter members. The officers installed at that date were: John Moon, Commander; Frank H. Foster, Senior Vice-Commander; (). Palmer, Junior Vice-Commander; J. W. Miller, Adjutant; L. C.Smith, Quartermaster; H. ILackett, Surgeon; W. F. Eddy, Officer of the Day.

Present officers: Hiram Finton, Commander; W. F. Eddy, Senior Vice-Commander; F. M. Idle, Junior Vice-Commander; A. G. Adams, Chaplain; N. R. Galbreath, Adjutant; L. C. Smith, Quartermaster; IE W. Hayes, Officer of the Day; Samuel Kyle, Officer of the Guard; A. J. Scott, Surgeon.

John M<>or>' Camp, Sons of Veterans, No. 137, was instituted April 1, 1886, with seventeen charter members. The recruits have been rajiidly secured, and the roster shows a gain of twenty-nine men to date. Meetings are held in the G. A. R. Hall. The present officers are: Eugene Underwood, Captain; William Shader, First Lieutenant; W. A. Clefibrd, Orderly Sergeant; A. B. Palmer, Quartermaster-Sergeant; W. Thomas, Chaplain; A. E. Douglas, Color Sergeant; Charles Finton, Sergeant of the Guard; Lime Wine, Corporal of the Guard; Jerome Gwin, Camp Guard; Charles Galbreath, Picket Guard; Dan Finton, Principal Musician; A.

Jb^ire Department. - Pierceton has an excellent fire department, and some excellent work has been done by its members. One of the most severe conflagrations that Pierceton has experienced was the burning of the Palmer House, one residence and eight business houses August 26, 1878. The Alert Fire Company, No. 1, was organized August 4, 1876. It consisted of forty members, with officers as follows: Foreman, F. H. Foster; First Assistant, K. M. Lawrence; Second Assistant, Levi Snyder; Secretary, S. B. Albright; Treasurer, F. V. B. Minnich; L. I). Nichols and Josiah Trump, Pipemen; .1. McGonigal, Hose Foreman. A hand engine, four hundred feet of hose, and twelve Babcock fire extinguishers were purchased by the \illage council in 1876 and placed in charge of tlie company, and they in turn distributed them among the business houses. Convenient cisterns and wells furnish the water supply, and the company is supplied with SdO feet of fire hose. There are thirtyfive men enrolled, with officers as follows: F. IL Foster, Foreman; G. M. Shoemaker, First Assistant; Harry Alwein, Second Assistant; C. D. Snyder, Secretary; Peter Conrad, Treasurer.

In 1870 the school trustees of Pierceton erected a handsome brick school building in the southwest part of town at a cost of *9,900. The main building is 40 x 70 feet, with an '- L," and has accommodations for 550 pupils.

Li the fall of 1870 it was organized as u graded school by Professor C. P. Hodge, principal. Miss E. A. Root was placed in chai-ge of the intermediate department, and Mrs. Anderson of the primary. The following are the teachers for the term of 1886-'87: Professor E. J. McAl])ine, principal; Mrs.

E. McAlpine, gramiuar department; Miss Bertha Sweany, first intermediate; Miss Ethe Lawrence, second intermediate, and Miss Mary Snyder, of the prinuiry department. Tiiere are 317 scholars enrolled.

TJie First Presbyterian Church was organized January 9, 1858, at the Crawford schoolhouse. Rev. J. N. Swan, W. S. Wilson, ministers; John Allen and Robert Cowan, elders. William Wilson was elected elder. The church had seventeen members at organization, and Rev. W. S. Wilson, of Warsaw, was the first regular pastor. Their first ch^irch building was erected in 1863.

The Methodist Episcopal Church was organized by Rev. Camp in 1854, the meeting being held at the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne & Chicago depot. The hospitable mansion of Robert McNcal in Pierceton was for some time the place where divine services were held, and later the school-house was used. Their present commodious church building was erected' at a cost of $1,500.

The membership numbers 231, with an attendance at the Sabbath-school of 175. A comfortable parsonage costing $600 is the property of the Methodist people. Rev. Thomas C. Neal has charge of Morris Chapel," which has a membei'ship of sixtysix, and a Sunday-school with seventy-five scholars. The chapel belongs to the Noi'th Webster Circuit.

The First Universalist Church was organized by Rev. Nathaniel Crarj^ at the schoolhouse in Pierceton in 1865, commencing with twenty-five members, and under his ministrations they were increased to one hundred in two years. A handsome frame church costing $9,000 was erected, and in January, 1869, was dedicated, the Revs. S. Sage and S. F. Gibbs preaching the sermons.

St. Francis Xwvier Roman Catholic Church was organized at the house of Thomas Murray by Rev. Father Lawier in 18(33. The next year tlieir cliurch edifice was erected. The membership lias steadily grown and Rev. ! Fatlier Worden lias charge of the congregation. Twenty-two families are communicants. Bishop Josepli Dwenger, of Ft. Wayne, has j charge of the dioeese; monthly ser\-ices only , are held.

Pierceton was incorporated May 10, 1866. The members of the board for that ye-AV were, President, Adam Simmons; Trustees, John JVLoore. Adam Simmons, Alexander Daughertv. E. T. Marshall acted as clerk, treasurer, assessor and marshal, but resigned before j the expiration of his term and J. B. Roberds was appointed clerk and assessor; John Minnich. treasurer and John G. Waldo, marshal. The officials of Pierceton in 1886 were. President of the Board, W. G. Graham; Trustees. W. G. Graham, J. N. Crawford, Robert M. Humphrey; J. C. Lilly, Clerk. The corporation limits contain about 1,200 inhabitants.

The principal business men are as follows: Dry goods. Ilayden, Cone tV: Cn., lladcliffe and McNamara, the Frohley Bros.; hardware, .1. H. Miller, Shanton, Humphries A; Snyder; drugs, F. H. and L. S. Fostei-, and E. W. Baker: groceries, Clemans & Co., Cochran <fe Carroll, B. tt S. Snyder & Johnson, and J. G. Miller; milliner, Mrs. Ella Moore; dressmaking and fancy goods, Mrs. A. E. Johnson; jewelers, Elmer Beesley and J. A. Dallas; photographer, J. F. Shoemaker; meat market, Brillhart & Williams; livery, W. C. Harvuot and Charles Guy; harness, A. M. Johnson and Chas. Underwood; lumber and saw-mill, Yohn & Grim. A company organized in December, 1886, and have com- 7iienced the manufacture of wheelbarrows

The Pierceton Cornet Band is the oldest organization of its kind in the county, and the orchestra numbers thirteen pieces. Since 1868 the organization has remained intact and this band has secured an enviable record not only at home but abroad. It is the life of the village, and is under the able leadership of Professor D. Strauss.

Jackson was organized March 8, 1838, and embraced at that time Monroe Township. It is in the southeastern part of the county, and is bounded on the north by Monroe Township, east by Whitley County, south by Wabash County, and on the west by Lake and Clay Townships.

James Abbott and family settled on section 13, September 17, 1834. In the autumn of 1835 Alexander Hapner and Abner Mc- Courtney came in and from that date numerous emigrants arrived.

James Abbott planted an orchard and the first crop of corn in Jackson Township in the spring of 1835. Abner, son of Samuel and Elma Abbott, was born June 11 of that year, the first white child born in the township.

In 1837 a road was surveyed and opened from Warsaw to Springfield, Whitley County, which passed through the northeastern part of the township.

John Hall erected a mill on McCourtney Creek in 1839. This saw-mill also had connected a burr for grinding corn. James Abbott and son erected the first steam sawmill on section 26, in 1846.

The first township election was held at the house of Abner McCourtney in 1838. Jesse Kyler was at that time elected justice of the peace. A postoffice was established at the house of the latter in 1889 and he was ap-

Tiie Dnnkards iirst settled Jackson Township, and in 1840 a society was organized. The iirst German Baptist church was erected on the farm of Joseph Ulrey in 1861.

The Eel River Railroad passes through sections 13 and 14, and the New York, Chicago ifc St. Louis Railroad across the township from southeast to northwest.

Sidney is located in the northern part of Jackson Township and was surveyed and platted by Messrs. Daniel Snell, John Mowan and Aaron Stumpff, in the autumn of 1881.

Gustavus A. Boltz purchased the first lot, and erected a residence and saw-mill in December, 1881. A farm house stood upon the site of Sidney in which resided Henry Goodyear and family.

Daniel Snell erected the first business house in 1881, into which Radcliff, Mc- Namara & Co. opened a stock of general merchandise. Frank B. Moe opened a hardware store in 1882, and William Klingel a harness-shop the same year. The first blacksmith was Samuel Hartzog; the first wagon - maker T. J. Twining.

In 1882 Dr. T. A. Lancester located in the village. He left in 1886 and his place is now ably filled by Drs. S. C. Loring and G. B. Hoopengarner. The latter opened the first stock of drugs in the new town.

Daniel Snell, who has been for many years a large contractor and builder, erected a large two story building in 1884, and put in a large stock of furniture.

There are now three stores that deal in general merchandise; two grocery stores and such other business establishments that make Sidney a popular trading point. The grain and lumber interests are large, and much money is received and paid out in those departments.

District No. 2 School was standing inside the village limits when the town was surveyed. There are two teachers employed, and one hundred scholars in attendance.

The postoffice was established in 1882. E. M. Radclift", first postmaster. He resigned in 1884 and was succeeded by Daniel Snell, who in 1885 gave w'ay to the Democratic appointee, F. B. Moe.

There is only one church in Sidney, but it is used in comn^on by the Christians, to whom the church belongs, the Methodists, German Baptists and Progressive Brethren. The church was erected in 1884. The Christian society was organized in November, 1886, the Methodist society in August, 1886, and the Brethren in September of that year.

Sidney owes its success to the enterprising people who have been induced to locate there, and if to any man in particular, the credit l)elongs to Daniel Snell, who has done much to improve the town and has aided many with the jneans to erect homes. Sidney is well located, and is a thriving and enterpi-ising village of 300 inhabitants.

Monroe is bounded on the north by Washington Township, east by Whitley County, south by Jackson and west by Clay Township. It was organized March 8, 1855, and given the name of Chester, but in December of that year it was reorganized and given its present name.

This township was uninhabited by white men until 1836, and from the l)est information obtainable, William Norris was the first actual settler. He made a location on section 24, in 1837. Iliram Bennett, a shiftless fellow, had preceded him in 1836, but had made no improvements, neither can it be definitely learned just where he located. His stock in trade consisted of a jug of whisky, which was sold to the Indians in the neighborhood.

Thomas York settled on section 15 in 1839, and was the first man to plant a crop of corn. John Cuppy, John Copelin and H. I. Stevens settled in Monroe Township the same year, and Ulysses Stevens, son of the latter, was born August 2, 1840, the first recorded white birtli. The same year Michael Kyan married a daughter of Thomas York.

The first officers of Monroe Township were appointed at the March term of court by the county commissioners, and were as follows: H. I. Stevens, James Norris and Jacob Rodgers, trustees. After appointment they met at the home of Mr. Stevens, and Daniel Miller was appointed clerk of the township.

In 1841 a Christian society was organized at the house of Abner McCourtney, who, with Samuel Abbott and wife, James Abbott and wife, John Abbott and wife, Ale.xander Hapner and wife, with Peter Circle and wife, under the ministry of Rev. John Plummer, formed a society. For many years they worshiped at private houses, and later in the school-houses, until a church was eree-ted on section 24 in 1868. The Sabbath-school was organized in 1840, with Samuel Abbott, superintendent.

Monroe Grange, No. 425, was organized October 9, 1872. Tiie officers -were: II. I. Stevens, Master; J. P. Thomas, Secretary; D. McPherson, Treasurer; Ira Richhart, Lecturer, and E. M. Idle, Chaplain.

The Grange element are in the majority in Monroe Township, and for a number of years the order was in a flourishing condition. While in the height of its popularity the order erected a hall, but the interest in the cause has gradually decreased until but few retain their membership.

is bounded on the north by Wayne, east by Monroe and Jackson, south by Lake, and west by Seward. Lake originally belonged to Clay Township. The first cabin erected in Clay Township was built by Samuel Bishop, who sold his claim to Isaac Minear.

tlie second pioneer in the township. Minear emigrated from Oliio with his family early in 1837. George Luke emigrated from Cumberland, Pennsylvania, and settled on section 4 in April, 1836, and was the first pioneer to make a h .)me in Clay. His son, George iS. Luke, wt > the first white child born, that event occurring April 13, 1837. Joshua Caldwell and his family came with Isaac Minear in 1837, and the same year a number of other families came. The first crops were planted in 1837 by the gentlemen mentioned, and of course from the lack of improvements they were very light. Clay was a densely wooded district, and was opened up very slowly.

The first religious services were held at Joshua Caldwell's cabin in tlie winter of 1837. Rev. Elza Van Schoick, a Methodist Episco- ]ial minister, oflaciated. Present: Grandma and Adam Minear, Joshua Caldwell, wife and sons.

The first Sunday-school was organized in the Caldwell cabin the next j'ear. Daniel Dodd was the first pedagogue, but was remarkable only in efficiencv. His scholars were few and learned but little. Simple subtraction was something too difficult for him to solve. The first schoobhouse was built of poles, upon the site of the brick school-house at Mount Pleasant, in 1840.

The first election was held in the township in April, 1838, at the cabin of Isaac Minear, who at that date was elected Justice of the peace.

of was donated to Captain John Wells, wlio erected the large two-story frame building now used as a hotel. This was occupied for some time by A. J. Whittenberger, who opened an extensive stock of general merchandise as soon as the store was completed. The place derives its name from the postofiice, which was established in 1840 on the farm of Joshua Caldwell, who was, until discontinued in 1865, the postmaster. The office was again established with the same name in 1873, with Captain John A\^ells as postmaster. By virtue of the name given the postoffice the village was and has been since known.

A. J. Whittenberger was for a number of years postmaster, but a change in the administration brought with it the appointment of Dr. George Ivetclinm, not only a sterling Democrat, but a physician and sui-geon of ability.

There are several important industries at Claypool, among which mwy be mentioned the fine saw-mill owned and operated liy J. AV. Shoemaker. There are two other mills owned by Jacob Ulrey and A. F. Chavey. A. J. Whittenberger is a large dealer in grain; Isaac Caldwell also owns a small elevator. There are two large stores that do a fine trade in general merchandise, Messrs. A. J. Whittenberger and AVilliam Sarber. The Grangers also have a store, but it has not been considered a paying investment, and the management frequently changes. The brick school-house was erected in 1878, and the United Brethren church in 1884. The medical profession is ably represented by Drs. George Ketchum, G. W. Brown and H. P. Hazel. The village has a population of 500 and is a very quiet and orderly place.

seats cointbrtably 250 persons, and is creditable alike to the village and tbe proprietor. Mr. Long also owns and conducts a saloon with a liue billiard-room attached.

Clay Grange, No. 729, was organized in 1869, at the Yager school -house. In 1879 it was moved to Claypool, and Harmony Grange united with it. Nelson Beigh is present master, and this grange has the largest membership of any in the county.

Claypool Lodge, I. 0. 0. F., was organized December 17, 1875. The charter members and officers installed were : Noble Grand, A. J. Whittenberger; Vice Grand, John Boyce; Secretaj-y, Amos Pontius; Treasurer, George W. Harland; Warden, William Davis; Conductor, Thomas Decker; Inside Guard, Leander Penny; Outside Guard, James L. Deaton; Right Supporter to Noble Grand, John Haddix; Left Supporter to Noble Grand, Daniel Dick. The lodge has been in a prosperous condition since its organization, and the society have a room pleasantly fitted up over L. Peiui^-'s hardware store. The present officers are: Noble Grand, George Luke; Vice Grand, Thomas Dick; Secretary. John S. Deaton; Permanent Secretary, Amos Pontius; Treasurer, G. W. Ilrvin.

This is a new village built since the completion of the New York, Chicago & St. Louis Railway, in 1882, and was laid out by John C. Packer upon the first tract purchased by him in this county. The plat comprises ten acres, a part of which lies in the adjacent townships of Monroe and Jackson. The first merchant was Adam Miller, and the first hardware stock was opened by I. N. Lucas, in 1883, who still conducts the business. The same year he erected a handsome twostory brick residence, the first brick house in the village.

L. C. Wiltshire was the first druggist, who in 1882 sold a half interest to Bert H. Wattles. In July, 1885, Mr. Wattles purchased his partner's interest, added a stock of groceries, and has since conducted the store upon his own capital.

In November, 1885, he was commissioned postmaster, and is the present incumbent. John C. Packer was the first one to serve in that capacity.

Dr. Vauglin was located within the present limits of Packerton several years before the survey. Dr. L. B. Bacon, an accomplished physician and surgeon, located in the village in the spring of 1886, and enjoys the principal business in his profession.

The first hotel was erected and is owned by William Walter. This is a neat twostory frame wiih a bar in connection with the hotel. Both are well conducted and every one stopping with the genial landlord and his estimable wife accord them the praise so justly merited. The host also lias a livery and feed stable, the first in the town.

Messrs. A. J. Whittenberger and George A. Seal have recently erected a tile factory, which has a capacity of 10,000 brick, 400 rods of three-inch and 200 rods five-inch tile daily.

The Highland Presbyterian Church is the finest church in any town of the size in the county. The corner-stone was laid October 27, 1885, and the church was completed and dedicated Sunday, November 13, 1886, Rev. J. P. Lloyd, of Fort Wayne, preaching the dedicatory sermon.

This important structure is a monument to the good people of the county, and especially to John C. Packer and Isaac N. Lucas is much credit due.

organized March 13, 1886. The charter members and its tirst otttcers were: Noble Grand. G. ^V. Carder; Vice Grand, William Scott; Secretary, B. H. Wattles; Treasurer, Isaac Harvey; Warden, John LI Packer; Conductor, George Wrigley; Right Support er to Noble Grand, John Yingling; Left Supporter to Noble Grand, David Finton, The officers were installed by Grand Master J. B. Kenner, of Indianapolis. The present officers are: Noble Grand, William Scott; Vice Grand, David Finton; Permanent Secretary, Bert H. Wattles; Kecording Secretary, Peter Clemraer; Treasurer, Isaac Harvey; Trustees, David Finton, George Wrigley, John C. Packer.

LAKE TOWNSHIP. Lake was organized September 20, 1870, and was originally the south part of Clay Township. It has an area of twenty-tour square miles, and is bounded on the north by Clay, east by Jackson, south- by Wabash County, and west by Seward Township.

John Rhoades, with his family, came in 18.32, followed the next year by a number of other settlers. One of the oldest pioneers now residing in the township is William Leffel, who came in 1840 and settled upon the farm upon which he yet resides. Himself and wife have been tifty years married, and are the oldest married couple in Lake Township.

Henry B. Funk built and operated by steam a saw-mill on section -34 in 1848. The only lake of any importance in the township is Silver Lake, a beautiful body of water. It abounds with fish, but the sportsmen of the neighborhood allow it to remain practically undisturbed.

A union church was erected on the farm of John Rhoades in 1868. It is the exclusive property of no denomination being erected jointly by members of diflerent churches. The union Sunday-school was organized in 1872 with a scholarship of fifty. The German Baptist church on section 3, is a branch of the Jackson Township church, and was erected in 1868. The congregation is large for a country church and numbers some excellent people as members of the

Silver Lake

This is the only village in Lake Township. It was surveyed and platted by Jacob Paulus, March 8, 1859, and until the completion of the Cincinnati, Wabash & Michigan Railway was one of the most prosperous towns in the county. The original name was Silver LakeviUe, but the latter syllable has been dropped. Jacob and Daniel Paulus were the tirst merchants of the village and in their log store house the tirst postoffice in the township was located ; Jacob was postmaster and kept the mail in a dry-goods box. The same year the village was surveyed. Hall and Paulus erected a grist-mill which was operated by steam. This was destroyed by fire a few 1 years later, but was rebuilt by Daniel and ! Jacob Paulus and for many years the mill i did a fine business. Jacob had done a gen- '. eral mercantile business inside of what is now the corporate limits from 1853, but when

Silver Lake was surveyed ci-ected a frame store huilding at the corner of -Fefterson and i\[ain streets where for a number of years he liad a lucrative trade.

Elisha Worley had the first drug store and in 1868 Adam Stout was taken into partnership. Alvin Robinson purchased the stock in 1874 and still continues the business.

Dr. Daniel E. Terry was one of the fii'st to practice his profession in Silver Lake, to which village he came in 1862. For a score of years he was the leading physician and since his removal to Rochester, his son Percy E. Terry has ably succeeded him. J. M. Amiss, M. D., is the other resident physician and is likewise a talented gentleman.

The Silver Lake House was the first hotel erected in the village and Orestes B. Turner was the first landlord. That hostelry is now t)wiied by John Lawrence, and is to be refitted during the present year. Dan D. Myers is proprietor of the American House and is one of the most popular hosts in the county. His wife ably manages the cuisine and commercial men make long trips in order to sit at the famous tables of that justly noted inn.

Preston W. Brown is the livery man and furnishes accommodations for the traveling public. He is tlie hero of many battles during the late war and was one of the men who helped capture Jefferson Davis, receiving his share of the Government reward while a resident of Silver Lake.

The first church erected in the village was the United Brethren edifice, which dates from 1862. The society had l>een organized in 1855, and for a number of years S. W. Wells was pastor in charge. That society is now in a flourishing condition and the Sunday-school organized by W. P. Wells in 1855 is now and has for a number of years been umler the superintendency of his sou Ephraiin Wells.

Fred Wiltront was the first tailor in Silver Lake, and for a number of years did a large business. His needle earned money enough to buy a nice farm, and place the family in independent circumstances. Mrs. Wiltront is the first lady postmistress that ever handled Silver Lake mail. For several years slie creditably filled that position. She was succeeded by Daniel D. Myers, but the change of administration brought with it the appointment of Mrs. S. C. Long, the worthy widow of Moses Long who, during his business life, was a prominent attorney of this county.

Adam Stout is the grain merchant and owns and operates the brick elevator near the Chicago, AVabash & Michigan depot. His ])urchase of wheat avei'ages 40,000 busliels and of clover seed and other products, 8,000 bushels annually.

Chas. E. Rantz, is an extensive dealer in live-stock, a member of the firm of Hire, Bybee & Co. Mr. Rantz shipped the first car of stock over the Chicago, Wabash & Michigan from Silver Lake.

Orestes B. Turner is resident photographer and has for many years been largely identified with the business interests of the village. He, during his more pi'osperous years, did as much for the improvement of Silver Lake as any man residing inside her limits.

A. C. Chandler carries on the coach and wagon manufactory in the old stand where for so many years himself and father have done business. His father had the first wagon manufactorj' in Warsaw, and built the first wagon nuxde in this county.

harness and clothing. His harness manufactorj is situated on the second floor. Henry was a brave soldier, and the numerous scars npon Ills person will serve as a reminder of the noted battle where he so nearly lost his life in defense of his country's flag.

F. M. Jaques, recently retired from the mercantile business, is a well-known gentleman, and served during the war in the Army of the Tennessee.

Levi W. Myers owns half of the handsome brick block in which his saloon and billiardparlor is situated. His bar is one of the nicest in the county.

Henry D. Geiger is owner of the Silver Lake mineral baths. The watei-s of this well are remarkably curative in rheumatism and kindred diseases, as attested by some wonderful cures.

The most important industry of Silver Lake are the extensive mills belonging to L. D. Keller. The saw-mill- is located near the railroad; the planer and pump factory in a large and substantial building down town.

The Methodist church was organized about 1864 in Silver Lake, with Thomas Ball, wife and daughter, now Mrs. Martha Herendeen, Isaac Whittenberger and wife, Robert R. Leas and others, forming the first class. Services were held in the United Brethren church until the completion and dedication of the Lutheran church, where the congregation worshiped until the brick Methodist Episcopal church was completed in 1879.

The Lutheran church was organized in 1805, l)y Rev. (j. W. Wilson, who for a number of years was retained as pastor. The first oflicers were: Albert Scoles and Jesse Stackhouse, elders; John Chambers and William Chandler, deacons. Meetings were held until 1871 in the United Brethren church, when their present commodious church was erected. Rev. B. R. M. Sheeter is pastor in charge; Adam Stout and John Bilger, deacons; G. W. Worley and Adam Oldfather, elders.

Silver Lake Lodge, No. 499, A. F. ct A. M., was organized December 5, 1873, with the following officers: U. I. Ward, AVorshipful Master; Henry Paulus, Senior Warden; Peter Kessler, Junior AVarden. Their charter was granted in 1875, but after giving it a seven years' trial the meml)ers concluded it would be best to surrender the charter. This was done December 19, 1880. The officers elect at that time were: Henry Paulus, AVorshipful Master; U. L AYard, Senior AVarden; Peter Kessler, Junior Warden; Adam Stout, Secretary, and Joseph Penrod, Treasurer.

Silver" Lake Lodge, No. 576, L O. 0. F., was organized Januarj' 1, 1886, and is a very prosperous organization. The present oflicers are: Noble Grand, Harry Leonard; Vice Grand, AYilliam EUinger; Recording Secretary, Hiram Sarber; Permanent Secretary, Charles Hill; Treasurei-, Gib. K. Smith; Trustees, G. W. Yotter, 0. M. Hoover and William Beck.

Herendeen Post, No. 306, G. A. R., of Silver Lake, at the recent election of officers selected the following comrades to fill the various positions for the coming year: Commander, Alvin Robinson; Senior Vice, F. M. Jaques; Junior A^ice, C. E. Rantz; Quartermaster, Samuel Can'; Officer of the Day, Isaac Shideler; Officer of the Guard, John Knowles; Delegate to the National Encampment, C. E. Rantz, with James Meek as alternate.

SEWARD TOWNSHIP was organized June 8, 1859. It formerly formed the east side of Franklin. In creating Seward a strip fonr miles wide and extending tlie full length north and south was taken from Franklin. Milo R. Barber was appointed trustee. The tirst election held in the township in 1860 was at the house of Jesse Paxton, near Yellow Creek Lake. Milo R. Barber was elected trustee, and held the otiice two consecutive terms. Abner Wood and Jesse Paxton were elected justices of the peace.

The first actual settler was Samuel Bishop, who came in the spring of 1836. Alone, save with the aid of a jiair of horses, he erected a cabin, and afterward cleared up a fine farm.

James Garvin was the second comer, and in the autumn of 1835 he erected a cabin upon the tarm now owned by his widow. About tliis cal:)in, which is yet standing, much of interest might be said. In it was born the second white child in tiie count}-, Jerusha Garvin, October 30, 1836, and the first in Seward Township.

The first religious services were held in the cabin of John Robinson in the autumn of 1839, Rev. Asa Johnson officiating. After the completion of the school-house in 1842, Rev. Alexander Lemon, of Presbyterian faith, held meetings regularly, until the society in 1850 erected a log church on John Robinson's hind. In 1840 James Garvin was a prime factor in securinw from the State Legislature aid to survey a road through the township from north to south. The same was done in that year by George R. Thralls, with Dan Underhill and David Garvin, viewers; Amos Joy and Andrew Nye, carriers; William Stapleford, blazer.

There are a number of beautiful lakes in Seward Township, Beaver Dam Lake, on section 33, and Willow Creek Lake, on section 27, being the largest. All are well stocked with fish, and upon the bosom of the lakes hundreds of wild ducks maybe seen. Seward Township is the home of a number of men prominent in the history of this county, among whom may be mentioned Milo R. Barber, its first commissioner, now eightythree years of age, and one of the building committee when thefirst building was erected; Elias McClure, John Robinson, Philip Siioke, Ephraim Wells, present county commissioner; John L. Merritt, township trustee, and Joshua Tucker, ex-township trustee.

The United Brethren church was organized at the house of G. W. Hutchings March 29, 1859, by Rev. jS'. W. Castle. Fairview church, their first meeting-house, was erected on section 27 in 1873.

He cut the lumber for the first residence, also for the first business house, the drug store now occupied by Adam Horn, which was erected bv Thomas Benton Sarber.

The second building was a hotel erected jointly by Horace Tucker and Peter Blue. This when completed was conducted by Samuel and Mrs. Banks, who with their tamily were the first residents of Burkett.

In the spring of 1882 J. J. Mohler opened a hardware store that was soon afterward purchased by John Sarber, who sold to George W. Nellons, who has largely increased the stock, and in 1885 had a cash trade of 83,400.

David H. Petry was the first dealer in grain, soon succeeded by Mr. Nellons who, since his ownership, has purchased over 45,000 bushels of wheat exclusive of other cereals.

J. L. Newby opened the first stock of drugs, but Adam Horn is the first permanent druggist, and may be correctly termed a pioneer in that line.

The postoffice was established the same spring with Absalom Kistler postmaster. Adam Horn is the present official, and is the first postmaster in the new town under Democratic rule, his commission bearing date April 28, 1885.

Dr. John Heffiy, was the first practicing physician, but remained only a short time. He was succeeded by Dr. Ensenberger, and he by Dr. Freeman A. Williams, an accomplished physician who located hez'e in April, 1885.

The principal industry of this village is the manufacture of lumber, three mills running constantly. The principal one is owned by Samuel Banks, and the estimated cut and shipment exclusive of local sales of the three mills for the past three years is 5,500,000 feet. A sufficient quantity of timber still remains in the vicinity to keep them running for ten years. The third building erected, was used jointly as a drug store and saloon and was operated by John Newb}\

The business may or may not have been profitable, but after the drugs were taken from the stock it frequently changed owners. The present proprietor is Harvey Bybee.

Burkett was named in honor of its founder, and is a prosperous village containing 300 inhaliitants. There are two large general mercantile stores, two hardware stores, an excellent drug store in which the postoffice is also located, blacksmith and wagon shop, furniture store, milliner}' and jewelry store. The K^ew York, Chicago & St. Louis Hailway furnishes excellent shipping facilities, and the location of the town on the northeast quarter of section 9, places it in the best part of Seward Township.

Franklin forms the southwest corner of the county and is bounded on the north by Harrison, the east by Seward Township, south by Fulton and Wabash counties and west by Fulton County. It contains thirtysix square miles, and was organized in March, 1838, at which time only eight white families were residents of her territory. Without doubt Benj. Blue was the first man to eftect a settlement, and his location was made inside the corporate limits of Mentone, on section 2. Mr. Blue moved his family into a bark shanty built by the Indians, and fires had to be kept burning at night to keep the hungry wolves from the door. Benjamin West came in the autumn of 1838 and located on section 7. Dr. I. H. Jennings, Jesse Myers, Richard A. Lee, James Garvin, John Dunnuck and Prosper Nichols became residents of the township the same year.

Id tlie spring of 1838, David Peterson became a resident of the township and the iirst election was held at his honse in August of that year. There were not more than ten voters in the township at the time and the Iirst trustees, James Ciarvin, John W. Dunnuek and Solomon i^ichols were elected, also Hichard X. Lee, the first justice t)f the peace. David Peterson was inspector of that election.

Dr. Jennings, from the date of his location, practiced medicine in this county, and was perhaps (he second physician to prescribe for patients in Kosciusko. He made a large purchase of land and superintended the improvement when professionally engaged.

Jesse Myers settled on the farm now owned by Rudolph Hire in 1838, and remained until 1840, disposing of his land to Mr. Hire, who is the oldest living settler of the township.

Prosper Xiehols one of the wealthiest of the early settlers, brought the first wagon to the township, and his daughter Anna was married to Hugh Bryant in 1840, the first wedding in Franklin.

The Logansport and Mishawaka wagon road was surveyed through the township in 1836, and two years later the Logansport and AVarsaw road was opened up. This gave the people some communication with the outside world, as prior to this time no roads existed.

George Sarber was an early comer and his location was made on section 2 in 1841. From him sprung a generation of men who rank highly in this county. Prosper Nichols donated a lot on section 85 for a public burying ground in 1843, and a child of Samuel and Mrs. Shields was interred the same year, the first burial in the township.

lot for similar j)urposes, and both are still used as cemeteries. Manj' of the pioneers were buried in those grave-yards, as attested Ijy monuments sacred to their memory.

In a rough log cabin erected on the farm of Solomon Nichols, a subscription school was taught in 1842 by Jeremiah Burns. The first public school was taught in 1846, and this township has been the home of some of the most highly educated and prosperous men of this county. Educational interests have always been carefully considered and the schools of Franklin rank high, both in number of scholars and grade of pupils. There are nine school districts with an enrollment of 582 pupils.

Li July, 1844, a postofficc was established at the house of Samuel Rickel with that gentleman as postmaster. The office was given the name of -'Beaver Dam" by Miss Julia Burns. Mr. Rickel served as postmaster Viutil the Republican administration in 1860, when tliat time honored Democrat was shelved and Jonathan Weaver was appointed.

Dr. Richard A. Lee opened a small stock of general merchandise on his farm on section 1 in 1842. Benjamin Blue erected a small tannery on his land the same year and operated it successfully for several years. It stood on the bank of Yellow Creek, neai' the present village of Mentone. In 1848 David Preston erected a blacksmith shop on the farm of Solomon Nichols, and the same year Charles Garwood opened the second store in the town ship on his farm, on section 29. Edwin C. Gordon erected the first steam saw-mill, to which was attached corn burrs in 1849. The original mill can hardly be said to remain, so many times has it been remodeled. It occupies the same site, however, and is one of the " landmarks " of pioneer enterprise.

Sevastopol

Juhn Tucker was the original proprietor of Sevastopol. It was platted in 1855, and two years later A. J. Wliittenberger and his brother Thomas opened a stock of genei'al merchandise. William Dunlap, the present postmas;er, owned a farm adjoining the villag;e plat, and at his house a postoiSce was established in 1857. He served as postmaster until the election of Abraham Lincoln in 1860, after which the office was removed to the Whittenberger's store and A.J. Whittenberger was appointed postmaster.

After the latter removed to Claypool. I.)r. A. M. Towlwas appointed and served several 3-ears, having the office located in his drug store, the first enterprise in that line in the village. The doctor located and began practice in 1856, and for thirty consecutive years was the leading physician in this part of the county, and he may be said to be the father of the eclectic practice in this county. His death occurred November 27, 1886. His death was unexpected and he died deeply regretted. He occupied an enviable position in the profession, and was a gentleman in every sense of the term.

William Dunlap has the principal store in the village, although there are two other firms doing business. kSevastopol was for several years a very prosperous village and her merchants had a large trade.

Xew towns springing up on every side deprived it of a large share of business and it is now slowly l)ut surely fading away. John Vandeniark conducts a neat hotel, and the saw-mill is still operated.

Sevastopol Lodge, No. 403, L O. O. F. was organized in this village in July, 1872, but in 1885 was removed to Meutone. The Baijtiat church was organized at the schoolhouse in this village in 1858, by Rev. Andrew Babc.ick. The church was erected in I860.

The best business town in Northern Indiana, containing 700 inhabitants, is Mentone. It has been erected since 1882, and the plat was surveyed in May of that year by Albert Tucker. The site occupies a part of section 1 in Franklin and a part of section 34 in Harrison Township. The location is an excellent one, the grounds being slightly undulating, and Yellow Creek passing across the southeastern boundary gives excellent drainage. The growth of Mentone has been rapid, the population increasing in four years from one family of four ]iersons to more than 700 inhabitants. Situated in one of the largest stock producing regions of the county, there has been a larger shipment of stock of all kinds from Mentone in the last three years than from any other station in Kosciusko County.

Albert Tucker was the original founder of the village, but later deeded one-third interest to each of the following named gentlemen: George W. Myers and William E. Ilackedorn, of Ohio.

Building was commenced in the autumn of 1882, William Kintzel being the first pioneer to erect a residence on the new town plat. His house was begun October 1st and was occupied by his family, consisting of Mrs. Mary E. Kintzel, her daughter, Clara, and grandson. Willie B. Shafi'er, November 5, 1882. Two days later Artemus Man waring with his family moved in with William and Mrs. Kintzel until tlie business house erected by Mr. Manwaring could be completed.

The postoffice was removed from Oak Kidge January 1, 1883, and Esquire Johnstone acted as postmaster until the ajjpointment of Artemus Manwaring, wlio was subsequently succeeded by C. PI Doane. The latter gentleman remained postmaster until the ajipointment of L. S. -Clayton.

Henry Dammann erected a building and opened a meat market .January 1, 1883. He is still in business at the old stand and is prospering iinely.

Dr. Josepli A. Cliandler was the first physician to locate in the village. In connection with his practice he carried a stock of drugs. He left Mentone in the spring of 1886, and we might appropriately state that his place was filled by John Heffly, M. D., a physician and surgeon of acknowledged repute in this county. Dr. Heffly was the first pliysician to locate in Burkett.

The fine flouring-mill erected in 1884 by A. C. Manwaring and Samuel C. Mentzer lias been of much benefit to Mentone. Tliis mill began operations October 1, 1884, with a capacity of lUO barrels per day, and half of the time from its completion to date it has run day and night.

Mentone has an opera house that is a credit to her enterprising people. It seats comfortably 500 persons, and was erected in 1885 by William Mullenliour. The stage appointments are quite elaborate and the accoustic properties are declared excellent.

There are numerous business enterprises in Mentone which brings a large trade to the village. Messrs. Foulks & Jetiries have an extensive machine shop and planing-mill; Albert Tucker owns and operates a large grain elevator, also deals in coal, wood, lime, etc.

The^VCethodist Episcopal church that stands in the vilhige was erected in 1880, before the town of jMentone was dreamed of. The Protestant Methodist church was erected in the autumn of 1886, and dedicated October 31 of that year. The Baptist church will be completed this year, and is the finest in its appointments of any church in the village.

Mentone has at present only one secret society, Sevastopol Lodge, No. 403, whicli was moved from Sevastopol to this village January 1, 1885. This lodge was organized July 5, 1872, with Abraham J. Whittenberger, Noble Grand; John I. Cox, Vice-Grand; Harvey Riner, Secretary; David Neif, Treasurer; Henry Riner, Conductor; Charles 11. Ketchuin, Outside Guard. The present olficers are: J. W. Christian, Noble Grand; .1. W. Lee, Vice-Grand; Harry Griffis, Recording Secretary; Henry Dammann, Treasurer; S. Arnsperger, Conductor; Dan Tipton, Inside Guard; Permanent Secretary, N. N. Lattinier.

The village was incorporated in Feljruar}^ 1886. Richard C. Railsback, Sol Arnsberger and John Yentes were elected members of the villajre board, and the former was elected

Many elegant residences adorn the village, The finest is the handsome brick erected by Mr. C. E. Doane in the autumn of 1886. There is no finer class of residences in any town in the county, and residents of Mentone may well feel proud of tlieir new village.

Mentone is partly in Franklin and partly Harrison Township, Main Street forming the dividing line. Both townships feel proud of the efforts put forth to build up the village, the residence portion of which is largely conlined to the Harrison side.

The territory comprising this townsliip was originally a part of Wayne. It was organized March 8, 1838, and is bounded on the north by Prairie Township and the Tippecanoe River, east by Wayne, soutli by Seward and Franklin townships, west by Marshall County. Trimble Creek passes through the township from southeast to northwest, and Isham Summy erected the fiirst grist and saw-mill upon the banks of that stream in 1838.

The two first settlers were James AVooden and Andrew Sell, who came in the spring of 1884. The first located on section 18, Mr. Sell on section 19, and their log cabins were the first erected in the township.

No other families came into the township for two years, but eight families located lands in 1836. Tliey were Christian Sarber, Isham Summy, William Blue, Joseph Snivelly, Thomas Reed, John and Daniel Underbill and Thomas Roraine.

A postottice was established in 1836 at the house of James Wooden, where it remained until removed to Palestine, after which Isham Summy became postmaster. Daniel Underbill opened a small stock of

Harrison Township has been the home of a number of eminent men, among whom is Hon. William Williams, whose marriage April 21), 1840, to Miss Eliza J. Douglas, was the first marriage ceremony performed in the townshij).

A school-house was erected in 1838 on section 29, and like all schools in an early day was maintained by subscription. Henry Bradley was the first teacher.

The first society to organize and build a house of worship were the United Brethren. Re\'. Jesse B. Slight organized a class consisting of Lawrence Easterly and wife, Noah Tinkey and wife, in 1844. In 1855 they erected a log church on section 10, and until their present church was erected in 1870, services were held in the log building.

In 1849 a Methodist Episcopal church was organized at the house of John W. Dunnuck. The members ia 1851 erected a log church on section 31, and in the autumn of that year it was dedicated by Elder John B. De Mott, and Rev. Cornelius Dowd was installed pastor.

To see the dilapidated village to-dav, tiie stranger might conceive that the name was a misnomer, yet the time was when Palestine was a handsome, thrifty village. Like many inland towns, the business has been attracted to others situated upon railroads in the vicinity, which, unfortunately for Palestine, induced her business men to remove to other places. Isham Summy laid out the village in 1837, and for many years it prospered.

Dr. A. M. Towl, of Sevastopol, made his iirst location here, and other iiieu of note have engaged in both mercantile and professional business, many of whom became wealthy wliile residents of the town.

Dr. F. M. Pearman is yet the resident physician, and for almost a quarter of a century has remained at his post, beloved and respected by all.

In 1854 a Methodist church was organized in Palestine, and in 1855 the society converted a bhicksmith shop into a house of worship. In 1859 the building committee, A. E. Mayer, John Fresh and William Sarber, succeeded in raising funds to complete their new church, and it was dedicated by Kev. Jacob Colclazer in December of that year.

John Dulaney was superintendent of the Methodist Episcopal Sunday-school, that was organized in the old blacksmith shop in 1855. Pniininent among the Christian workers in the church were A. E. Mayer, William Sarber, Dr. Pearman, J. W. Dunnuck and .lohn W. McKrill. The latter is now identiiied with the Methodist church at Silver Lake.

Mrs. Agnes Teegarden and Harvey Hunt laid out this village September 29, 1857. Fortunately the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne, & t'hicago Piiilway passed thi-ough it, and the village is quite an important ti'ading point. The place was tirst called " Afount Ruska," but the name was by a petition of the citizens in 1865 changed to Atwood. A postoffice was established in 1864, Ira Ilovey, postmaster. Oak Pidge jiostotiice was established on section :51 in 1877, but was removed to Mentone in 18S2, but is still within the limits of Harrison Township.

The graded school-building was erected in 1878, costing $1,575. Harry Graham was principal. Miss Lizzie Reed, teacher of the primary. Eighty-live scholars are enrolled at this date. Professor William McKinley is principal. Miss Josie Keece has charge of the intermediate and primary departments.

The Atwood Methodist church was organized in 1866, by Rev. E. P. Church. In 1868 a handsome frame house was erected costing $2,000. The Sunday-school is an important feature of church work and was organized the same year the church was dedicated. Rev. Civets has charge of the congregations ot Atwood and Etna Green. The United Brethren also have a church building, and regular services are held by Rev. Kese^'.

The Odd Fellows have a membership of twenty-five, with the following gentlemen tilling the chairs, J. R. Stooksberry, Noble Grand; M. G. Carles, Vice-Grand; W. W. McKinley, Recording Secretary; T. W. Shank, Permanent Secretary; D. S. Welch, Treasurer.

The roster shows twenty-si.\ members in good standing, with officers as follows: Jacob Kyle, Commander; James House, Senior Vice-Commander; C. Rose, Junior Vice- Commander; .M. (). Carles, Quartermaster; AVilliam M. Vaughn, Adjutant; H. M. Swigart, Surgeon; Simeon Lutes, (Miaplain; J. A. Rovenstine, Officer of the Day; John Hibsman, Officer of the Guard.

Atwood has a population of 850, but its era of prosperity has been reached. It is rather a jiretty village, but no increase in po])nlation has l)een ma.de for sevt'ral y(\irs.