Marshall County, Indiana - Chapter 4: By Samuel W. Gould, M. D, 1890 (part 1 of 2)

Chapter 4: By Samuel W. Gould, M. D

ARGOS, IND. - ORGANIZATION AND GROWTH - EARLY STRUGGLES - SPIRITED SKETCH OF PRIMITIVE DAYS - SIDNEY WILLIAMS, THE OLD PIONEER - WHAT HE DID FOR ARGOS - INDUSTRIES - RUNNING REVIEW OF THE SAME - ADVENT OF RAILROADS - GREAT BOOM FOR ARGOS - CHARACTER OF THE SOIL - RICH IN AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES - CHURCHES - SCHOOLS - SECRET SOCIETIES, ETC.

HE village of Argos is located in the southern part of Marshall county, four and one-half miles from the Fulton county line. It is not a hew town, though its greatest development has occurred during the last eight years. In 1880 the census gave a population of 622, while the recent census records 1,105 - ^^ increase of 80 per cent. (The popular estimate was 1,500, but the average reader knows how such things are.) With an increase of 80 per cent, in population the Argosonian challenges any and all towns in the county for comparison of figures. He is even willing to give odds of from 30 to 50 per cent. The business of the town has grown to a much greater degree, as will perhaps be indicated further on. As a stopping place, if not as a trading point, it is contemporaneous in age with the Michigan road - that primitive thoroughfare from the Ohio river to Lake Michigan. The treaty of the Tippecanoe river was held in 1832, at which the lands, of which Marshall county forms a part, were procured from the Pottawatomies. Very soon after Sidney Williams located here and contracted to cut out the Michigan road from Rochester to South Bend. He first lived in the primitive log cabin, but very soon erected a double hewed-log which was to serve as a "tavern" - the name by which the first hotels were known. He also had a small store, stocked with such goods as his employes would want for themselves and family. (Whisky was an essential commodity in those pioneer daj's, and, indeed, for many years after.) As soon as the road was passable a stage line was established, and the tavern of Sidney Williams was a stage station, and the stopping place of travelers, home seekers and speculators. An old timer tells us that "around the huge fire-piace there often sat, and smoked and joked the most social, honest and unselfish men the world has ever produced; that

We think we understand the feelings and prejudices of the small remnant of that little army of venturesome pioneers, yet we often wonder if they do not express more truth than fiction. A postothce with a weekly mail was established and named Sidney, in honor of mine host; and afterward the village of but a few houses was known by the same name. The lands north, east, and south of Sidney were principally taken up by actual settlers, while some of the land on the west was bought by speculators, and was therefore in the rear in the march of improvement. This township - originally a part of Green and Tippecanoe - when organized was named Walnut, because of the quantity and magnificent growth of that timber. The land being heavily timbered required much labor in clearing, therefore its development under the then existing circumstances was slow. A livelihood was all there was to work for; markets for the products of farm and forest were yet to be created. The primitive merchants in the towns remote from canals and other water-ways did a barter business almost exclusively. The farmers of this locality, they were all small in that day, brought their eggs, butter, maple sugar, wool, fur, hides and ginseng, and bartered them for " store goods " (not for a kind extravagant in quality) while the merchant, with no home market, was compelled to wagon these products to Lake Michigan or to the canal at Logansport, from which points they also wagoned their goods. When the farmer had a surplus of wheat or pork he hauled it to Logansport or Michigan City, and as prices were extremely low he was compelled to board himself and team and lodged on the margin of the highway - not on the margin of his profits. That class of wagoners is not now known, and the feed-box attached to the rear end of the wagon box is now seldom seen in this part of the country. The younger portion of our people - those on the proximal side of the middle age line - have but a crude idea of the life and labors of the early settlers of this country; and as the early experiences cannot be repeated, the youth of to-day, and those who succeed them, will draw very imperfect mental pictures of pioneer life from the pages of history, to but briefly describe and discuss the conditions of early times; the scarcity of money and the uncertainty of the monetary system; the necessity of making the home a manufactory; the wool-cards, spinning-wheel and loom, being possessions absolutely demanded; the wife and mother carding the wool, then spinning it, then weaving it into cloth, and finally cutting and making the wearing apparel of the family; taking the flax from the field, rotting it, breaking it, skutching it, hackling it, spinning it on a small wheel run by foot power, weaving it, and then manufacturing the finished product into sheets, pillowslips, towels, shirts, etc. (With the mercury at ninety-eight degrees in the shade. We actually shiver when we recall to memory the sensation we experienced when a boy on plunging into bed between two of these linen sheets on a cold winter's night! Ugh!) The raising and manufacturing of almost everything necessary in the home, and the difficult}' of procuring such things as the farm and home could not produce; the genius and economy, the labors and sacrifices, would fill a volume. But it is not our province to discuss these questions. We have made this brief allusion because it applies, in full force, to the early settlers of Argos and vicinity. The young lady who reads these few paragraphs may ask herself how she would enjoy the labors and responsibilities which devolved upon the wife and mother of that period. The young men did not spend their money for lemonade and ice cream.

For twenty years there seemed to be but little of Sidne3^ except the tavern, though the dense and heavy forests surrounding were being converted into farms. Sidney Williams, soon after completing his work of cutting out the Michigan road, sold his farm and tavern stand to Clark Bliven. We are informed that Williams, who was a man of extraordinary strength and energy, traveled about a great deal and engaged in man}' different enterprises. In a trip across the American plains he was attacked with inflammation of the eyes, and as competent physicians then were " few and far between," the disease finally resulted in the destruction of vision. He then settled down in Illinois, where he resided until the time of his death, a few years ago. He was an old man. About twelve years ago he visited Argos, and remained several days. The writer enjoyed a long conversation with him, but a feeling of sadness took possession of us when we looked into his sightless eyes and realized that he could not know and understand the great changes that had been wrought during his absence of forty years. His old Argos home was purchased by Marquis L. Smith, in 1845. Por many years he continued the hotel business, but advancing years and comparative independence caused him to close the doors as a public inn. He still lives upon the old site, however, but the hewed-log tavern was long since replaced by a handsome and commodious residence, and it is safe to say that the venerable owner and his estimable wife will end their days at this place, where they can dream of a pleasant and prosperous past. Mr. Smith is now one of our oldest citizens, and no one is held in higher esteem by the general public, or has a greater number of special friends. The town of Fremont, adjoining Sidney on the east, was laid out by Joseph Rhodes, in perhaps, 1S56. Sometime before this the Sidney postoffice, through political manipulation, known in that day as well as this, was moved four miles south. An effort was at once made for the establishment of an office at Sidnej', which was successful, and as there was already- a Sidney postoffice, 'Schuyler Colfax, the member of congress from this district, was requested to give the new office a name. He gave it the name of Argos, his mind doubtless reverting to ancient Greek history. Thereafter the village was known by the same name, and a few years later the town of Fremont, virtually an addition, was legally absorbed by Argos. The only objection to the name is that many strangers spell it as they would the fabled animal of an hundred eyes. A little thought, we think, would indicate the correct orthography, but an occasional mistake does not detract from the importance of the town. In the Industrial Review \x\. searching after the mercantile history of the towm, we find that about 1S57, John A. Rhoads, an early settler, called to his eternal home about three years ago, opened up a small grocery in Fremont, and we also learn that the first beer sold in the village was by him. His capital was small and his business soon perished.

Hague & Bros, established a general store, by which we mean a store where anything can be purchased from a coffee mill for the house to a curry comb for the stable, about 1S59. They were here about two years, and if living, their whereabouts are unknown. They were succeeded by Martin Bucker & Son, who continued the business a short time. Martin Bucker passed away August, 1889, at almost eighty years of age, and although he had been financially unsuccessful in the battle of life, he was blessed by a host of true friends; and his funeral, conducted by Argos lodge, F. & A. M., of which he had been the tyler for nearly twenty years, was a very large one. The son now resides in Mentone, Ind. The Buckers were succeeded by Rice & Bro. The out-break of the rebellion aroused the patriotism of the younger of the brothers, Welcome, and he raised a company for the forty-eighth regiment (infantry) , by which he of course became captain. He was a brave and efficient officer, doing good service, and surviving comrades, of whom there are several in and about Argos, swear by him in all matters of grave and serious import. The business was conducted by the senior brother, Martin A., who is now and has been for many years, the editor of the Masonic Advocate, published at Indianapolis. Capt. Welcome Rice, on his return from the army, was employed as conductor on one of the oldest lines of railroad in this part of the state, a short line extending from Plymouth to La Porte. In 186S. the line was extended southward to Peru, there connecting with the old Indianapolis & Peru road, the oldest road, we think, in the state. The two roads combined (in a business sense at least) , but Capt. Rice was retained in the service. In a short time the two lines became one and the road was extended northward from La Porte to Michigan City. It is regarded as the best north and south line in the state, and in all the mutations of management, Capt. Rice has been continuously in service, seldom getting a vacation, and by reason of his carefulness and caution, he is known all along the line as " Old Reliable." We cannot follow their successors, as the enlargement of business was an actual solution of lineal continuity, nor do we think it necessary so to do.

Among the other early business men was James M. Wickizer, who opened a general store in iS6o, and continued in business off and on, principally on, for about twenty years. A man named Dennison opened up a small drug store in 1865; Jonathan Pickerl and Wesley Spencer started a boot and shoe store in 1S66, and a grocery in 1S67. A steam flouring mill was built and put in operation by Robert Railsback, in 1S63. In 1866, a small hardware store was started by Nathaniel Chapman and son, Henry, to which groceries were afterward added. The demand for liquid refreshments was not ignored, and two saloons were running during the '6o's, one by George Emmons and the other by George Brockus. Blacksmiths and wagon repair shops were of course the first mechanical establishments, and G. F. Waag, a German, established a business of no mean proportions, a fine carriage shop - good enough for a town of 10,000 inhabitants - was established in 1S66, by three brothers named Van Nest, sons of the once celebrated carriage manufacturers, of Tiffin, Ohio. One was a wood workman, one an ironsmith, and the third a painter - all first-class workmen. They did well for a time, and would have continued to prosper had they agreed; but their disagreements were so serious as to finally end in bankruptcy. Of the above James M. Wickizer is living on a beautiful farm adjoining the village on the east. He has had his full share of sorrows, having buried two wives, and has been sorely afilicted physically, being compelled to walk on crutches. He takes life quite philosophically, however, and has a snug competence, as a result of his toil and rigid economy. Dennison is living somewhere in the northern part of the state, but we can learn nothing of his business or condition. Jonathan Pickerl is still in business, being the proprietor of a dry goods and grocery store. Though in poor health a great portion of the time the years have dealt gently with him, so far as looks are concerned, and he makes a "full hand" in the store. He has been successful. Wesley Spencer passed away several years ago from the effects of disease contracted in the Union service. Robert Railsback has been in business here almost continuously from the first, and is now the proprietor of a clothing and boot and shoe house. Time has dealt gently with him also, and he seems as active as ever. He has been quite successful during the past few years. Nathaniel Chapman has passed the three score and ten line, but is as active and strong as a man of thirty.

He is a typical New Yorker, therefore loves to talk and to entertain his friends. His hospitality (to those he likes) is absolutely boundless. He lives in a beautiful home on a small farm adjoining the corporation. His son, Henry, has for many years resided at Newark, N. J. George Emmons moved to Wisconsin. George Brockus died many years ago, having reached a good age. G. F. Waag removed to Chicago a few years since, where he continues the same business, and, we are told, has been prosperous. Two of the Van Nest brothers died at or near Tiffin, Ohio, and the other, we presume, is continuing his father's business at Tiffin, the father having died several years since.

We think we have said enough concerning the early business men of Argos, as the work of following each one in and out during the development of the past quarter of a century would be an almost endless one. There are doubtless many who will feel aggrieved because their names, or the names of some of their progenitors, are not mentioned in these pages, but we assure them no slight is intended - time and space positively forbid. The first adult settlers of this locality have rested from their labors, though many of their children are still with us and seem to enjoy relating their experience of life in the log cabin, with the attendant labor and deprivation, and all that a life in the wilderness implied. They love to dwell on the sociability and neighborly feeling of those primitive days, and we are sometimes envious of their joy of memory.

Railroads. - But we must now speak of more recent years and the agencies most prominent in the development of the county. Physical strength and courage, the axe, maul and wedge, farming implements, etc., were the first essential agents, but after a time other agencies must be secured that would be still more potent in the work of material development. The first boom given the village was in 1865, when there seemed to be a fair prospect of the "Pewee" line (as the railroad from Plymouth to La Porte was familiarly known) being extended from Plymouth to Peru. Considerable grading was done, and many ties distributed along the line, but the work suddenly ceased. A man named Knoxson, of New York (long since dead) , was at the head of the company (perhaps the sole member), but, though he was an excellent business man, and commanded at one time considerable capital, habits of dissipation rendered him unreliable. The brief boom, however, appreciated property and added to the population and business of the town. In the fall of 1S67 the railroad enterprise was revived. Knoxson at this time being unable to build the road, was anxious to dispose of it, and a company consisting of Rogers, Courter and Herrick agreed to build and stock the road if the citizens along the line contributed what they regarded as the necessary assistance. (This was before the time of voting a tax, in aid of railroad construction.) It is unnecessary to state that, in the anxiety for a railroad, the required aid was forthcoming. The work progressed without interruption, and in the fall of iS68 the cars were run as far south as Argos. When the construction train reached the northern boundary of the town the scream of the engine set the people wild, and a half dozen jolly fellows took the lead in making arrangements to treat the entire company of workmen, which was done in fine style. A few months later the road was completed to Peru, and to say that the Argosites 'were happy is putting it mildly. A petition was sent to the postoffice department praying for the abandonment of the old postal service from Logansport to Plymouth (tri-weekly) , and the establishment of a daily mail via the railroad. The prayer was answered at once and the citizens of Argos and vicinity assumed metropolitan airs. Many new buildings were erected, business flourished and every Argosite had a tear of sympathy and a word of commiseration for the people of a town that could not boast of a railroad. Merrill Williams & Son erected an elevator at once, and Argos became a grain market, though before this the flouring mill, with an extensive trade in both Marshall and Fulton counties, consumed considerable grain. But now there was a market for every bushel, and at as good prices as when it had to be hauled several miles in wagons. We had railroad transportation for the surplus products of all kinds, and, though the rate was exorbitant, the improvement upon the primitive system made both the farmer and merchant happy. The village advanced by healthy and permanent additions, to a population of 622 in 1880; but, while one railroad, which charged a passenger rate of 5 cents per mile and an equally extortionate freight rate, was a grand convenience and an incalculable improvement over the old regime, merchants and business men generally, as well as farmers, of the surrounding country felt the necessity of railroad competition in order to successfully compete with some of the surrounding towns. In iSSi the prospect of an east and west trunk line suddenly dawned upon us. There had been railroad talk for some time, but as - in the east, at least - much time was usually consumed before real work began, we gave little heed to the talk. Soon, however, the evidence was conclusive that the road would be built at once, and that, unless we bestirred ourselves, the line would be established about four and one-half miles south of Argos. Then the latent energy of our people was developed into wondrous activity. A meeting of citizens was called - every one being painfully earnest in his words and promises - and a competent committee was sent to Chicago at once to confer with the proper officials and secure a preliminary survey. In three days the surveyors were here - all expenses paid by the

Argosonians - and a simple inspection of the route convinced them that the road could be built much cheaper by the way of Argos, as well as of the fact that the line would pass through a much more desirable country. Railroad meetings were held every few evenings, excitement ran high, the required aid was promptly subscribed, the dirt soon began to fly and Argos was happy in the assurance of the Nickel Plate road. The town boomed in earnest. New enterprises were projected and existing ones were stimulated and enlarged, property values appreciated and since the completion of the road - eight years ago - Argos has been regarded as one of the best trading points in northern Indiana. Since then the population has increased eighty per cent. - an increase equaled by few towns in the state outside the gas belt. We now have, by reason of competition, reasonable freight rates, and farmers find in Argos as good a market for their products and can buy goods as low as in any town in the state. The railroads give employment here to quite a company of men. Argos is the headquarters of four sections - two on each road - and many are employed at this work. At the stations, coaling dock and in various capacities the companies employ many more, and thus every month these two " soulless " corporations leave a snug sum of money in Argos which goes into the hands of butchers, grocers and other dealers. Argos has two wagon and carriage manufactories - one of which is quite extensive - and the Argos wagon has a first-class reputation in this and adjoining counties. These shops, together with our flouring, planing and saw-mills, give employment to another small army of skilled and unskilled men, so that it may be truly said that Argos furnishes steady employment to as many men as almost any town of the same population. Then during the spring, summer and fall months, there is almost constant building and repairing going on, giving employment to carpenters, masons, plasterers and common laborers. We have no large manufacturing establishments, but, talk as we may, it is the country around and the patronage of the farming community that give stability and permanency to a town. The better the farming lands and the greater the extent of territory commanded, the better will be the town. Many of the employes of manufactories are men who have to be constantly watched by business men in order to avoid losses, and often the closest vigilance is not sufficient to protect the butcher, grocer and boarding house keeper. These employes, as a rule, are transient. They are liable to be discharged, or they tire of one location and want a change, or, finally, their employers may suddenly collapse, and therefore the business men who carry them from pay daj' to pay da^' are constantly exposed to financial loss. Not so with the farming community. They are permanent citizens, and backed by lands, produce and stock of various kinds. They are also backed, usually, by a stock of integrity. Argos is located in one of the finest agricultural districts in the state. It would be difficult to find anywhere in the world a richer soil, one so well adapted to the most necessary and valuable productions, and one so little damaged by wet or drought. A total failure in any of the leading crops is never anticipated. In the last twenty-five years there has been one corn failure, and only one. This was in 1869 - known as the wet season. It rained almost continuously during the corn working season, yet those who, regardless of health or comfort, plowed through mud and water, raised good corn. The production, however, was not sufficient to supply the home demand. Where is there a section of country with a better record? The yield in corn or Avheat is not of course uniform, but it is seldom indeed that the crop of these two important cereals is not good. As a result our farmers are in good financial condition. Their farms are in first class shape; they are provided with the latest improved agricultural implements; they have good houses and barns, and a majority of them have a respectable surplus to carry them through such adverse conditions as might arise. Argos commands the trade of a territory from twelve to fifteen miles square, a territory much larger than that commanded b}' any other town in the count3^ and this is a sufficient explanation of her growth and business prosperity. In this territory there is little waste land, in the way of marshes and ponds. What marshes did exist have been reclaimed, and the whole territory may be regarded as one grand, productive field. New lines of railroad frequently damage a town instead of improving it, and increasing its business. New trading points spring up and thus the territory is divided. This has been the case with some of our sister towns, and a pall has been spread over their former business energy and activity. Argos was an exception in the case of the " Nickel Plate " line. Instead of a division of territory more was added, an importance was given the town (as well as advantages) , and every business enterprise leaped into wondrous activity. We were fortunately situated. Now that we have an east and west trunk line, and aline from Lake Michiigan to the capital, we are not troubling ourselves about new railroads. Unless a road would bring something more than a line of transportation it is probable that a majoifty of our people would oppose its construction. A railroad may be a rock that will split a town in twain, especially when there are already enough to get the advantages of competition. A word more concerning the territory commanded by Argos. No finer agricultural lands can be found within the limits of our government, and this year, while the wheat crop in this and many other states is far below the average, in this locality the yield is a full average. The land north, south, and east of Argos, or the greater portion of it, is known as walnut land - the best there is. Much of this now valuable timber was reduced to ashes by the early settlers, as there was then, of course, no market for it. The quantity and immense growth of this wood suggested the name given the township. The stranger who is given a carriage ride through this locality never fails to remark, " what a beautiful country." As gold is purified by fire so bj^ the same agency towns and cities are often improved. Argos, unfortunately, was not visited by a necessary conflagration until January, 1SS7, when a row of unsightly buildings on the west side of South Michigan street, comprising eleven business rooms, went up in smoke. The roofs were covered by about fifteen inches of snow, therefore the fire progressed so slowly that nearly all the goods were safely removed. The principal part of the goods being saved renters lost but little, while those who owned their rooms lost nothing, the naked lots being worth more the morning after the fire than on the evening before. The town trustees at once passed an ordinance prohibiting the erection of wooden buildings within certain prescribed limits, and this act was an inspiration to the owners of the lots. Building soon began, and last fall the opera block closed the last gap in the burnt district. Now a handsome and substantial row of brick buildings occupies the site of the primitive fire traps, and now the citizen is not ashamed to pilot the stranger through the buildings that were borne to us on the wings of fire.

C/mnkcs. - Argos, like other towns, has her churches. The Methodist, Adventists and Christians, have substantial edifices in which to worship, the Christian church is a brick structure. These denominations seem to be harmonious and prosperous, even in the judgment of an agnostic. There are very manj- members of other denominations, but they are content, for the present, at least, to worship with those who have tabernacles. The morals of the town will compare favorably with other towns of equal size. We have some toughs, we have not the conscience to deny it, yet, when any disorder occurs, we note that the leading spirits come from without the town.

Secret Societies. - First in order, because the oldest in the history of secret benevolent organizations which still have an existence, is the Masonic. The lodge was instituted about twentyone years ago, and its members have been extremel}- careful about receiving applicants - good material only, being accepted. As a consequence, the lofty character of Masonry has been maintained, and its present membership numbering about forty, includes the most prominent men of the town and vicinity. Another fact must not be omitted - Argos lodge. No. 399,

F. & A. M., is regarded as having some of the best, most correct, most impressive workmen to be found anywhere in the state. This is a reputation of which the members have a reason to feel proud.

The Argos lodge, of I. O. O. F., is perhaps twenty-three years old. For some reason, unknown to the writer, many of the older members have " droppedout,"buttheirplacesare usually supplied by new ones, and the lodge seems to be harmonious and prosperous. The membership numbers about thirty-five.

A lodge of K. P's was organized here, but little more than a year ago, but they have been decidedly prosperous, having now a membership of about forty-six, from which they have organized a drill corps of twenty. A post of the G. A. R. was organized here several years since, and at one time, eighty or more old soldiers were enrolled, but we are told that the organization now numbers only about forty-five - a considerable number having been "dropped " for non-payment of dues. When something occurs to excite new interest, it is probable that the old veterans will return. It would seem that the G. A. R. is no exception to organizations, generally, notwithstanding the fact that they stood elbow to elbow on the field of slaughter, more or less jealousy sometimes destroys that harmony and unity which should exist among old comrades.

A camp of Sons of Veterans was organized in January, 18S9, and now numbers twenty-seven members. As the character and purposes of these orders are known to the general reader, we content ourselves at this time with this brief statement of facts and figures.

Sc/wo/s. - We are proud of the Argos schools, from the high school department of which are annually sent out as bright young scholars as from any school of equal grade in the state. Unfortunately the capacity of our school building is insufficient. There are but five apartments where there should be at least seven. The first and second primary rooms are so densely crowded as to render them decidedly uncomfortable to both teachers and pupils. Nearly 190 are enrolled in these two_ rooms, and, though they are provided with the best of teachers, it is impossible for them, work as hard as they may, to do perfect work. More school room must be provided, and this is the subject that is now being agitated. Unfortunately it cannot now be done by taxation, as we have been taxed so much for unnecessary things that a sufficient levy would exceed the limit prescribed by law. We think the present school-house, which is a brick structure, can be enlarged by an addition at small cost; but, as it is the old " union" style of building, no addition can harmonize its proportions or enhance its architectural beauty. But it would accommodate the children, and this is the first object in view.

Having briefly referred to our churches and schools we will now turn our attention to the business enterprises of the town. We will only notice particularly those branches of business requiring considerable capital, as we have not the time to particularize the many kinds of trade and business which, though equally important, require but little means. We have already spoken of our wagon and carriage shops, and shall not refer to them again. The Argos flouring mill (full roller) is regarded as one of the best in the whole country, being patronized by farmers living much nearer other mills. We have not inquired into the amount of business annually done, but it is usually evidence of some repair going on if the smoke is not issuing from the smoke stack. Argos has quite an extensive lumber yard, at which can be bought all kinds of lumber and materials of wood used in building, while a first-class saw-mill near by is kept running almost constantly in converting the native woods into lumber.

The following is a list of our business houses: Five dry goods, one ready made clothing and furnishing goods, two hardwares, equal to any in northern Indiana, four groceries and provisions, two of which run delivery wagons, five other places where groceries are sold, one harness and boots and shoes, five other places where boots and shoes are sold, two drug stores, one jewelry, splendid stock and excellent workmanship, one furniture and undertaking, three restaurants, two meat markets, three millineries, half dozen dress making, two tailoring, etc., three saloons and billiard halls, two liveries, and, that our financial affairs may be conducted on modern principles, one good, substantial bank, organized under the laws of the state, with a capital of $50,000. Barbers, blacksmiths, shoemakers, etc., have not been listed, but trust none will take offense at the omission. Of the establishments enumerated, five do an annual business of $25,000 each, while the other houses do each a business of from $2,000 to $15,000. In the above we do'not include dressmaking and similar establishments. The freight reports of the railroads of a town (where there are no waterways) indicate, in a great measure, the volume of its business, therefore we submit the following tables showing the business for last year:

U. S. Company American Company

We regard the above as a respectable exhibit, but we must remember that much that is consumed in country towns is not brought in railroad cars, but in wagons, or driven in, by the people of the surrounding country. Here the greater part of our subsistence is the product of our own locality, as flour, beef, pork, corn meal, potatoes (Irish and sweet), beans and most vegetables, chickens, eggs, butter, and many kinds of fruit, etc., etc., and this fact must be borne in mind in making comparative estimates of the business of different localities.

We have three hotels, one of which - the Argos house - has been open for several years, and under the proprietorship of the genial Al Ford it is a haven of rest and refreshment for the weary traveler. The " Nickel Plate" eating house, which feeds all the trains running east and west, is a busy place, both day and night.

As a town of the importance of Argos must have some means of conveying to the public and to our neighbors the general news, aud matters of business and local interest, we have a newspaper - the Argos Reflector - edited and published by J. H. Watson, Esq. And we desire to say right here that we have the neatest, cleanest, best edited newspaper published in the state. Nothing of a low or scandalous character is ever seen in its columns. That which the public should know is published, while that which would debase instead of elevate the thought of the reader is barred from its columns. We wish we could say as much of all the newspapers published in our sister towns.

We must not forget to speak of our planing-mill, or " factory," as it is called. It is provided with machinery to make the rough lumber ready for the carpenter's use - sawing, planing, matching, etc., etc. The proprietor informs us that, in addition to the general work, arrangements have been made for the special manufacture of ladders, door and window frames, barn blinds, brackets of all kinds, and all sorts of turned work. A good business is anticipated.

The elevator on the L. E. & W. road was owned and operated for several years by H. G. Thayer, of Plymouth, but recently it fell into the hands of William Alleman and John Cavender, who are operating it now. But Argos was too good a point for the purchase of grain to be abandoned, and therefore H. G. Thayer & Son established headquarters for the buying and handling of grain on the "Nickel Plate" road. The farmers regard this competition as favorable to them, and expect to receive, as they surely will, the very highest market price for their grain. The result will be an extension of grain territory commanded by Argos. We are just informed that Thayer & Son will build an elevator on the L. E. & W. road, close to the old one, and that work in that direction has already begun. We have satisfied ourselves that this is correct. (Since writing the above

H. G. Thayer & Son have purchased their old elevator of Alleman & Cavender, and will use the building just erected for the storage of corn, oats, clover seed, etc. Another company, headed by Slayton & Hess, is buying on the '" Nickel Plate," and the competition is strong and active. Wheat is coming in rapidly, and from points outside the former lines of trade. The buyers and helpers at both points are kept busy until late at night, and the aggregate amount of grain received will far exceed that of any previous year.)

Having thus briefly referred to and described the principal business interests of the town, we will now speak a word of the professions. There are three resident clergy, two males and one female, and an indefinite number of visiting ones. Those residing here are in intellectual ability and earnestness of work, fully up to the average of country towns, even towns larger than Argos. The purity of their lives and intentions cannot be questioned.

There are five practicing physicians here, some of whom have more than a local reputation. Whatever form of disease may attack our people, whatever accident may occur, whatever surgical operation is demanded, there is no necessity of calling foreign aid. It would not be wise to particularise, we will leave that matter with the public. Since the introduction of driven wells, and since the lower lands have been thoroughly drained, this has been an exceptionally healthy locality, yet those doctors succeed .in making a comfortable living, and two or three of them command a considerable amount of money or its equivalent.

As this is not the county capital it is not to be presumed that we have any prominent Blackstonian in our midst, and we will not speak of that " innumerable throng " that professes a knowledge of law.

As most people enjoy a pleasant entertainment, in a pleasant, comfortable place, we must allude to our opera hall, which was completed last fall. It is strongly built, neatly finished, with a large and commodious stage, and has a seating capacity of between five and six hundred. It is the very thing " we long have sought." Several first class troupes visited us during the winter and they were handsomely patronized.

In conclusion we desire to speak of the character of the people who inhabit this locality. Although a majority of the eastern states, and some of the foreign countries, are represented here, yet they have been here long enough to equalize their customs and differences and affairs as people born of one state. We do not mean that we are all alike, we are glad that we are not; but that there is not that broad and decided distinctiveness which renders a general sociability and fraternization impossible. We are a social and hospitable people (with some exceptions, of course, as every communitj' is cursed by a greater or less number of cold, selfish, illiberal men and women, who are a law, and court, too, unto themselves), and among the farmers many of the hospitable customs of the early Kentucky and Virginia settlers are still maintained. Argos never does anything by fractions. We have often surprised our friends from larger towns by the way we could provide for and entertain large crowds, and Argos can always have a large crowd if the occasion demands; while there is a pleasant unity existing there is of course classification, socially and otherwise, as there always has been and always will be throughout the world, and which is essential to real enjoyment. The idler seeks the society of idlers and the cultivated lady or gentleman is not at home with the illiterate and unrefined.

In point of general intelligence we rank second to no community, and we can boast of a few particularly brilliant and profound thinkers. There is no work to be done that we can not furnish competent men or women to perform it. We are a reading people, and there are few homes that are not well supplied with books, newspapers and magazines. And here we will observe, parenthetically, that, while the president has not yet appointed a postmaster for us, the ofiice is closely hugging the ragged edge; and if there were not several small offices near by, this would have been a presidential office ere this.

We are a public spirited people. Scores of our citizens stand ready at all times to contribute of their means for any object that will benefit the public.

We are a prosperous people, but we deem it unnecessary to produce any proof at this point, as we have already said enough to convince the reader.

We are a happy people. This chapter will convince the reader that we could not be otherwise than happy, if happiness is to be attained in this world.

No person would be content in any place on this planet, if not in this locality, where to simply tickle the soil means a laughing harvest; where a proper observance of hygienic law is all that is necessary to secure health and strength - a locality free from dreaded epidemics and death-dealing miasmata - where prosperity is assured unless prevented by indolence, or a disregard of reasonable economy; where truth, honesty, justice and charity prevail; where the general intelligence is above the average, and a social and peaceful spirit is possessed by all; where there are church privileges for the religiously disposed, and superior schools for the education and cultivation of the youth; where there are "brave men and fair women," the former admired by the latter, and the latter idolized by the former; where, in short, there is everything essential to the birth, sustenance, development (physically, intellectually, morally and socially) and happiness (almost absolute) of the finest specimens of the gams homo. Indeed, it is questionable if such an one could be happy if transported to a sphere of continual sunshine, where all luxuries and pleasures would be furnished "without money and without price"; where from the shoulder blades would spread broad pinions by which, without tiresome exertion, the inter-planetary ether could be rapidly traversed, and the mind given unobstructed opportunity to study the beauties, the harmonies and the mysteries of the universe. And here time and space compel us to reluctantly mark a period.

Robert H. Baty, a farmer and stock-raiser of Walnut township, was born In Fayette county, Ind., June 30, 1836, and Is a son of Robert H. and Rebecca (Ross) Baty. The father was born in Preston county, Va., August g, 1790, and died in Fayette county, Ind., October 6, 1S70. He was a son of Robert and Elizabeth Baty, both born in Virginia, of German descent. In their marriage they were blessed by the birth of the following offspring: John, James, Robert H., William, Stephen, Elizabeth and Rebecca. Robert H. was born and reared on a farm, and throughout life followed farming for an occupation. Upon reaching manhood he left the parental home in Virginia, and subsequently located in Ohio, in which state he married. He wedded Rebecca Ross, who was born in 1795, dying in Indiana in 1842. She was a daughter of Christopher and Elizabeth Ross, of German descent. Unto the marriage of Robert H. and Rebecca Baty, there were born fourteen children, of whom the following lived to maturity: William, Anna, Stephen, Rebecca, James Elizabeth, Elmlra, Mary and Robert H. The marriage of the parents was consummated In about 1812, and soon afterward they came to Indiana and located in Fayette county, where both continued till death called them above. They were faithful members of the United Brethren church, and were respected and loved by many friends and a grateful offspring. The father was a soldier In the war of 181 2, and in politics was either a whig or a republican. Robert H. was born and reared on a farm, and to farming he devoted his industrious and progressive life. April 20, 1858, he was united in marriage with Mary V. Banks, daughter of Thomas and Jane Banks, early settlers of Delaware county, later of Marshall county. She was born in Delaware county, Ind., February 3, 1836. Soon after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Baty settled down in life in Fayette county, then removed to Delaware county in 1861, and in 1865 settled in Walnut township, this county, locating on a farm in section 2,;^, where they have continued their residence. They are members of the Disciples church, and are among the leading families. In politics Mr. Baty is a staunch republican.

Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, November ii, 1S35, and is a son of John and Elizabeth (FlathJBock. These parents were born and reared in Hesse-Darmstadt, German}', and their marriage resulted in the birth of the following children: Frederick, Adam, Leonard, George and Jacob. Leonard Bock was born and reared in the town of Oberkincig, where he was given a fair German education. Between the age of fourteen and fifteen years, he was placed out to learn the trade of a baker, which he followed for about three years, in the meantime learning milling. To free himself from the military law of Germany, he emigrated to America in the year 1853, and in June of the same year, he landed at New York city, and at once proceeded to Buffalo, N. Y. Here he remained for about five years, in the meantime learning carriage trimming, which he followed for several years thereafter. After making several removals and working for a season in Mississippi, he located at South Bend, Ind., where he remained till 1868, in which year he removed to and located in Argos, Ind., where he has since remained, engaged in milling. In 1S82, he became sole proprietor of the Argos mills, which he is now operating. At Bremen, Ind., in 1862, he was united in marriage with Elizabeth Hensel, daughter of Adam Hensel, a native of Rhine Bavaria, Germany. Mrs. Bock was born in Marshall county, Ind., her father being an early settler of the county. Unto the above marriage, have been born the following children: John A., Charles, Frederick and Erdine. Since 1887, Mr. Bock has been a member of the Christian church at Argos. He is a member of the Argos lodge. No. 399, F. &. A. M. He has held the position of a school officer in Argos, and is one of the present school board. He is an ardent friend to church and education, and is a progressive and worthy member of society.

Samuel Bodey, the subject of this sketch, was born in Champaign county, Ohio, April 10, 1838. He is a son of Adam and Mary ( Brubaker) Bodey. The father was born in Rockingham county, Va., in 1808, and died in Champaign county, Ohio, in 18S5. The father was a Virginian by birth, and a son of one of the Hessian soldiers of the American revolution, hence Adam Bodey was of German descent. He was a farmer by occupation, and upon reaching manhood left his native state, and emigrated to Ohio in an earl}' day, where he married Mary Brubaker, who was born in Champaign county, of that state, in 1814, and who died in 1878. The marriage resulted in the birth of the following offspring: Hannah, deceased; Daniel, deceased; Rebecca, Samuel, Henry, Mary A., Isaac, deceased, and Ellen. The father and mother, in early life, were members of the German Lutheran church, but died members of the Universalist church. Samuel Bodey was reared on a farm, and given a fair English education in the country schools. He remained at home till past twenty-one years of age, working with his father on the farm, and December 27, i860, was united in marriage with Emma Esken, daughter of Philip and EHzabeth Esken, both natives of Germany, emigrating in an early day to Pennsylvania, later to Ohio, and still later to Marshall county, Ind., where both died. Mrs. Bodey was born in Berlin, Summerset county, Penn., October I, 1843. Unto the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Bodey have been born these children: Henry A., Clinton P., Mary E.; Emma A., deceased; Harvey C. and Ethel F"ay. Mr. Bodey remained on a farm in Ohio until 1S63, in which year he came to Marshall county and located in Walnut township, where he has since resided. Since then his principal occupation has been farming, but he has also followed saw-milling and merchandising a portion of the time. He was engaged in general merchandising in Walnut for about eight years, from 1868 to 1878, losing some time from the trade in the meantime. He is one of the progressive citizens of the county, and a self-made and prosperous man. In politics he is a staunch democrat. Though he is not a member of any church, he believes church to be for the best, and he lives a moral and upright life, and is regarded as a good and worthy citizen.

Lewis Bennet Boggs, one of the young and enterprising farmers of Walnut township, was born in Marshall county, Ind., April 29, 1854, and is a son of Lewis and Sarah (Devolt) Boggs. Our subject was reared and educated on a farm, and has followed farming quite successfully all his life. He remained with his parents till twenty-one years of age. On October 18, 1877, he was married to Zeldajane Hite, daughter of Robert Hite. Mrs. Boggs was born in Iowa, January 15, 1859, and by her marriage with Mr. Boggs, has become the mother of these children: Mirta, Elton, Vernon and Minta Z. Mr. and Mrs. Boggs are members of the Advent church, at Argos, and in politics he is a staunch democrat. Mr. Boggs, though a very young man, is one of the representative men in his honored calling, that of farming. He owns and cultivates an excellent farm in the northern portion of Walnut township, in which township he owns lands aggregating 220 acres. He is a live and energetic man, keeping pace with all the modern methods and improvements in farming.

David Boyce was born in Ohio, October 31, 1846, and is a son of George W. and Mary Ann (Kerney) Boyce. The father was born in West Virginia, and died in Marshall county, Ind., March 24, 1885, aged sixty-eight years, three months and six days. He was of Irish descent, and February 5, 1843, was married in Richland county, Ohio, to Mary Ann Kerney, who was born in West Virginia, in 1816. The marriage resulted in the birth of the following offspring: Jerusha A., deceased; Lovina, David, Asher V., James, deceased; John, deceased; Elias; Sarah, deceased; Marion and Elmina J. In 1848, George W. Boyce removed his family to Indiana and located on section 20, of Walnut township, Marshall county, having been one of the early settlers of this part of the country. He located in the wilderness, and though his life was more or less spent in farming, his principal occupation was sawmilling. He was industrious and frugal, and amassed considerable wealth during life. His widow still survives and resides in Argos. David Boyce was reared a farmer and the pursuit of agriculture and saw-milling has been his principal business. He worked with his father till past twenty-three years of age, and August 5, 1869, married Ethalinda Pearce, daughter of Aaron K. and Margaret A. (Harsh) Pearce. The father was a native of Richland county, Ohio, born in 1821, and dying in his native county in 1858. He was a son of Simon Pearce, who was born in 1795. The wife of Simon Pearce was Sarah Kinney, whom he married in 1819, and by whom he had the following children: Aaron K., Simon S., Lewis G., Theodore D., Orlando M., Maria L., Clarintha, Oran A., Rucinna L., Cyrenus C, Clarinda E., Marietta C., and VVinfield W. Aaron Pearce, in 1846, wedded Margaret Harsh, born in Lancaster county, Penn., in 1824. The marriage resulted in the birth of these children: Livona, Harriet, Ethalinda, Cerillda, Louisa, Theodore P., and Aaron K. Ethalinda was born in Richland county, Ohio, August 27, 1850, and came to Indiana with her parents in 1858, and her marriage with our subject has resulted in the birth of the following children: Rose Lee, Benjamin F., Margaret V., John W., George H., Ara M., Boyd L., Orda J., and Lillie M.

H. C. Brewer, who was born in Clark county, Ind., April 4, 1851, is a son of Henry and Sarah E. (Bowell) Brewer. Henry Brewer was born in Clark county, Ind., February 7, 1814, and died in this county June 13, 1869. He was a blacksmith by trade, which he followed in early life, but for many years was engaged in farming. In his native county, in 1837, October 19, he was united in marriage with Amanda P. Smith, whose death occurred September 4, 1838. May 9, 1850, he married for a second wife Mrs. Sarah E. White {nee Bowell), who had been previously married October 8, 1846, to John C. White, who died October 17, 1848. She was born in Clark county, Ind., December 18, 1827. By her marriage with Henry Brewer she became the mother of the following children: Harrison C, Catherine J., Flora A. and Flavins L., all of whom are deceased but the first, who is the subject of this sketch. The parents came to Marshall county in the fall of 1863, and settled in the northern portion of Walnut township, where the father died. Subsequently the mother was wedded by Barney A. Idson, with whom she now resides in Fulton county, this state. Harrison C. Brewer was reared and educated on a farm, and began for himself at the age of twenty years, by taking up the pursuit of agriculture, which he has since carried on. October 23, 1870, he married Emily L., daughter of Hiram VanVactor, a pioneer of Marshall county, where Mrs. Brewer was born, March 28, 1854. Unto the marriage have been born: Marion L., Frances Elmer, and Henry H. Brewer. Mr. Brewer is a representative farmer and citizen, and is a member of the Argos lodge. No. 399, F. & A. M.

Charles Brown, one of the pioneer settlers of Marshall county, was born near Augusta, York state, in 1805, and was a son of Sylvanus and Sarah (Spaldwin) Brown, unto whom were born three children, namely: Matilda, Charles and Harry. The parents were of New England birth and English descent, and of Quaker faith. In an early day the parents settled in York state, where Charles was united in marriage January 29, 1829, to Lucy Conner, who was born near Dublin, Ireland, in 1808, the daughter of James and Susannah (Naylor) Conner. Lucy emigrated with her parents to America in 181 1, settling in York state. Unto the marriage of Charles and Lucy Brown were born the following offspring: Lucetta, Melissa, James, Jane, Matilda, Sallie, Sylvanus, Kaziah, Charles and Lucy. The father was a farmer by occupation, and farmed in New York till 1834, when he removed to Ohio, which state he left in 1837, coming to Marshall county and locating on section eight of Walnut township, where he died in 1872. He was among the hardy and well-respected pioneers of the county, and held several positions of honor and trust in the community. He was an ardent abolitionist, whig and republican. In early days he was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, later of the Latter-day Saints, but a member of the Advent church. His widow still survives, and now resides in Argos, and is in religious faith of the Latterday Saints.

Joseph Bryan was born in Mahoning county, Ohio, May 17, 1833, and is a son of William and Mary (Bishop) Bryan. The father was born in New Jersey, February 27, 1799, and died i"n Mahoning county, Ohio, August 28, 1865. The mother was born in New Jersey, December 16, 1793, and died in Marshall county, Ind., February 13, 1886. The father was a son of Haron and Charity (Haines) Bryan, the former being a native of Ireland, but emigrated to America in an early day. Unto Haron and Charity Bryan were born the following children: Joseph, James, William, Haron, Rebecca, Ann and Martha. William was born and reared in New Jersey, and in 1823 was united in marriage with Mary Bishop, daughter of Eber and Susannah Bishop, to which marriage were born three sons and two daughters, namely: Jonathan, Robert, Eber, Mary and Hannah Ann. LInto the marriage of William and Mary Bryan were born six children, namely: Elizabeth, Sarah, James, Susannah, Joseph and Han- nah. In the spring of 1829, the parents removed from New Jersey, by way of wagon to Mahoning county, Ohio, where they settled on a farm, the father's death subsequently following. Both parents were reared in the Quaker faith to which they remained true till death. Their son Joseph, the immediate subject of this sketch, was reared and educated on a farm, and has devoted his life to the honorable and independent calling of agriculture. In his native county, October 28, 1S55, he was united in marriage with Beulah M. Meridith, daughter of William and Sarah (Catron) Meridith, both natives of Chester count3%- Penn., and of English and Dutch descent, respectively. They became the parents of the following children, viz.: Margaret, Simon, Elizabeth, William, David, John, Sarah and Beulah. The parents settled in Ohio in 1833. Beulah, now Mrs. Bryan, was born in Chester county, Penn., January 23, 1831, and by her marriage with Mr. Bryan has become the mother of the following children: William, Josephine, Mary M., Margaret S., Emma J. and Sylvester P. After their marriage up to 1S66 Mr. and Mrs. Bryan continued in Ohio, and then removed to Indiana, and located in Walnut township, where they have since resided. Both are members of the Christian church of Argos, and are among the most respectable families of their community'. Mr. Bryan began the struggle of life a poor man, but through industry, perseverance and frugality has succeeded in accumulating a comfortable competence, and is at this time one of the leading farmers and representative citizens of Walnut township.

Nathaniel Chapman was born in Plymouth, Chenango county, N. v., November 25, 1817, and is a son of James and Amy (Sheldon) Chapman, both parents born in Providence county, R. I. The father was a son of Nathaniel Chapman, a native of Rhode Island, and of Scotch origin. The mother was a daughter of Pardon Sheldon, also a native of Rhode Island, and of English origin. Pardon Sheldon was a staff officer under Gen. George Washington. Unto the marriage of James and Amy Chapman were born the following children: Libbie, Charles, James, Amy, Simon S., Sabrah, Thomas R., Esther, Pardon S., Phcebe, Nathaniel, Angeline, Silas H. and Jeremiah S., three of whom were born in Rhode Island and the others in York state. The father's death occurred at Plymouth, N. Y., in 1835, at the age of sixty years, and the mother died at Smyrna, N. Y., in 1857, at the age of seventy-six years. They were both Quakers, in which faith they lived and died. Nathaniel Chapman remained under the parental roof until he was almost eighteen 3'ears old, at which time he began the struggle of life for himself, his first work being done on a farm at $8 per month; but he soon quit farm work and subsequently learned the trade of harness and saddlemaking. March 10, 1839, he was united in marriage with Miss

Lois Potter, a foster child of David Jennings, her parents dying when she was very young. She was born in Chenango county, N. Y., December 12, 1815, and bore the following children: Henry C, Sarah A., Theodore F., Charles D., and Lucy J. In 1843 Mr. Chapman permanently located on a farm in York state, and he continued farming till 1865. In this year he came to Indiana and settled at Argos, and four years later went to Illinois, where he remained till 1875, at which time he returned to Indiana, and for the followmg seven years resided on a farm in Fulton county. While residing in Illinois he was engaged in the milling business, and in the meantime he invested some capital in Argos, Ind., in a drug store, which his son Charles D., operated. In 1881 Mr. Chapman left Fulton county and located in Argos, and one year later purchased lands near the village and built him a convenient home, where he has since resided. Mr. and Mrs. Chapman are members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Argos, and enjoy a high social standing. He is a self-made man, having begun life for himself a poor youth, and through life he has been industrious and progressive, and is now a prosperous and well respected citizen.

W. D. Corey, a native of Marshall county, Ind., was born February 21, 1839, and is a son of Barney and Barbara A. (Douglass) Corey. The father was born in Rhode Island, June 4, 1809, and died in Marshall county, Ind., in 1866. He was a son of an Irish emigrant who came to America in an early day. Barney Corey, after reaching manhood, left his native state and went to New York, where, September 22, 1834, he wedded Barbara A. Douglass, who was born in New York, October 19, 1810. By her marriage she became the mother of the following children: Sarah A., William D., Barney J., Susan A. (deceased), and Melvin L. In about 1836, by way of a one-horse wagon, Barney Corey, his wife and first born child, emigrated from New York to Indiana, and settled in the woods of what is now Green township, Marshall county. Here the father remained till called away by death. The mother, after the father's death, was wedded by Hiram Durphy, and with her second husband returned to New York, where she died in 1878. Her remains were brought back to Indiana and now lie buried by the side of her first husband, in Green township, near the early place of settlement. Barney Corey was a cabinet-maker by trade and a farmer by occupation. He was a hardy pioneer, and over thirty years of his active and useful life was spent in this county. He began life a poor man, and through industry and perseverance, grew prosperous. He was a practical and successful farmer, and at the time of his death, had amassed considerable wealth. He was a zealous Baptist, and was the leading founder of what is known as the Jordan Baptist church of Green township, which

Still maintains an existence. His mother, who at about the founding of this church, joined his famil}' circle, was the first white person baptized by immersion in Marshall county. William D. Corey was born and raised on a farm, and remained under the parental roof till past the age of twenty-one years. May 20, i860, he wedded Miss Cynthia A. Alleman, and began farming for himself, which he carried on for a number of years. His wife was born in Holmes county, Ohio, November 28, 1839, and is a daughter of Christian Alleman, an early settler of Marshall county. To the above marriage have been born the following children: Milroy A., William D., Mollie A., and Iva D. In February of 1865, Mr. Corey became a private in Company F, of the Eighty-seventh Indiana volunteer infantry, and at the close of war was discharged from Company F, Fortysecond Indiana veterans. He is a member of the G. A. R. Lafayette Gordon post, 132, of Argos, and I. O. O. F., Argos lodge. No. 263, of Argos; also Argos lodge. No. 399, F. & A. M. He and wife are members of the Baptist church and are among the leading families of Argos. F"rom 1866 to 1873 they resided in Caldwell county. Mo., where Mr. Corej^ continued farming. From 1873 to 1878, they resided on a portion of the old homestead in Green township. Since 1S78 they have resided in Argos, Mr. Corey being engaged in merchandising. He is now engaged in the undertaking and furniture business, and is one of the live and active business men .of Argos.

William Cox, the subject of this sketch, was born in Knox county, Tenn., May 22, 1808, and is a son of Peter and Margaret (Marshall) Cox. The father was a native of Georgia, and the son of an early settler of that state, who was of Pennsylvania birth and English lineage. Mr. Cox's mother was a native of North Carolina, of which state her father was also a native, emigrating thence to east Tennessee in an early day. The marriage of Peter Cox and Margaret Marshall was consummated in Knox county, Tenn., and resulted in the birth of four children, namely: Elizabeth, William, Zimri (deceased), and Rebecca Ann (deceased). As early as 181 5 Peter Cox and his family removed from east Tennessee to Indiana and settled in Wayne county, where the pioneer's wife died, and subsequently Mr. Cox removed to Hamilton county, where his death afterward occurred. William Cox remained under the parental roof till he was twentyfive years of age, at which time, September 12, 1833, he was united in marriage with Margaret F'ox, daughter of William Fox, a native of North Carolina, and an early settler of Indiana. Margaret Fox was born near Germantown, Ohio, February 25, 1814, and her marriage with our subject resulted in the birth of the following children: Fernando, Elizabeth, Mahala. Esther, Adaline, Margaret A. and Sarah. Soon after his marriage Mr.

Cox settled on a farm in Wayne county, where he remained till in 1S60, in March of which year he moved to Marshall county, and located in Walnut township, where he has since resided. His life has been devoted to farming, in which he has met with marked success. He has never aspired to public position, but has lived the life of a retired citizen and independent farmer. His wife lived many long years his faithful companion, and was called to her reward November iS, 1SS7. Mr. Cox resides on a beautiful and well-improved farm near Argos, and is surrounded by many comforts and a host of friends. Both he and his wife were reared in the Quaker faith. Though he has never connected himself with an}' religious organization, he has always been friendly to churches, and to education. His life has been characterized by industry, sobriety, integrity and perseverance, qualities that have won the respect of a wide acquaintance.

Fernando' Cox, a progressive farmer of Walnut township, was born in Wayne county, Ind., September 5, 1834, and is a son of William Cox, whose biography is given above. He was reared on a farm and given a limited education in the early district schools, and remained at home with his father until past thirty years of age. August g, 1S62, he enlisted as a private in Company D, Seventy-third Indiana volunteer infantry, and was discharged at Nashville, Tenn., July i, 1865. Among some engagements in which he participated were the battles of Stone River, Athens, Decatur and others; being in all the actions and movements of his company, except Strait's Raid, during which time he was sick and in the general field hospital, under tent. After his discharge he returned to this county, where he has since remained. December 2, 1S67, he was united in marriage with Helen Ward, a native of Indiana, who died October 17, 1S75. The issue of this marriage was four children, namely: William E., Adam (deceased) , Arthur and Henry C. November 2, 1882, Mr. Cox married for a second wife, Elizabeth Louthan, daughter of James and Nancy Louthan, natives of Ohio and Pennsylvania, respectively. Mrs. Cox was born in Beaver county, Penn., September 5, 1854, and has borne her husband the following children, viz.: Bradford, Schuyler and Charles. Immediately after his first marriage Mr. Cox settled on his present homestead, in section 6, of Walnut township, where he has since continued. He owns and cultivates a well improved farm of one hundred acres, and is one of the most successful farmers of the county. He is a member of the G. A. R., Lafayette Gordon post. No. 132, of Argos, and in politics is a staunch republican.

John Crow, a young and enterprising farmer of Walnut township, was born in this county July 23, 1853, the son of Isaac and Elizabeth (Pickerl) Crow. The father was born in Washington county, Ind., April 22, 1S22, and was a son of John and Cather- 16 - B.

ine (Blazer) Crow; the father, a native of Virginia, and of English and German parentage, while the mother was born in Pennsj'lvania, of Dutch descent. Unto John and Catherine Crow were born William, Sarah, Elizabeth, Nancy, Isaac, John, and Lewis Crow. Soon after their marriage they removed to Kentucky, where their first two children were born, and then they removed to Indiana and located in Washington county, subsequently locating in Jackson county, where Catherine died in 1842, aged tifty-three years. In the same year John came to Marshall county, where he remained until called away by death in 1862, at the advanced age of eighty-three years. Me was a soldier in the war of 181 2, and was in the battle of Tippecanoe, Of his children the following came to Marshall county: Sarah, Nancy, Lewis and Isaac. Sarah and Isaac are deceased. Isaac came to the county as early as i8;,q, at the age of seventeen, in company with a Mr. Tuttle, a pioneer of the county,-who brought to the county a drove of sheep which Isaac helped to drive. Eor several years he worked mainly at clearing land, and it can safely be said that he cleared more Marshall county land than any other man. He cleared acres after acres of land of its dense forest growth, and finally purchased and cleared himself a homestead in Walnut township, upon which he lived till his death occurred, September q, 1874. He was an industrious, honest man, a good citizen, a kind father and a faithful friend. January 8, 1852, he was united in marriage with Elizabeth Fickerl, daughter of Chasteen I'ickerl, an early pioneer of the county. Mrs. Crow was born in Holmes county, Ohio. May q, 1832, and was the mother of the following children: John, Amanda, Chasteen, Charlie, Asbury, Luella, \\'. T. Sherman, Eva M. and Sarah. The mother, and four children, namely: John, Chasteen, W. T. Sherman and Sarah, still survive, and, own the old homestead. John, the oldest of the children, is operating the home farm, and is one of the representative farmers and stock-raisers of the county. He is a progressive citizen and in politics a staunch democrat.

Richard Curtis, a prominent farmer of Walnut township, was born in Butler county. Ohiii, July 6, 1844, and is a son of George and Elener (Carter) Curtis. The father was born in Scotland in 1772, and died in Miami county, Ind., in 185J;. The mother was born in Ohio, in 1804, and died in Marshall county, Ind., in 1883. Their marriage was consummated in Ohio, where they resided till 1849, when they located in Miami county, this state. To their marriage was born: George, Susannah, Maria and Sophia (twins), Andrew, Richard, Nancy, Jane, James, Rebecca and Wilson Curtis. George Curtis was" a taiJor by trade, and a farmer by occupation. After his death his widow and her children remained in Miami county till in 1865, when they removed to Marshall county, where the mother's death occurred many years afterward. The oldest son was the only one of the children that did not come to the county. Richard Curtis was reared and educated on a farm, and has followed agricultural pursuits with good success all his life. March i, 1869, he was united in marriage with Mrs. Jane Robey {ncc Davis), daughter of John Davis, a pioneer settler of Marshall county. She was born in Henry county. Inch, December 2, 1839, and by her first marriage was the mother of two children, namely: Laura \i. and Addie C. Robey. The marriage with Mr. Curtis has been blessed by the birth of the following children: Charles li., Clarry L., Harvey J. and Luther J. Mr. Curtis is a member of the German Baptist church, and Mrs. Curtis belongs to the Progressive branch of the same denomination. The parents have taken much interest in the education of the children, of which Charles H. is a teacher in the public schools of the county.

James M. Davis, a representative of a leading family of Walnut township, is the subject of the following sketch: Jacob Davis, his paternal grandfather, was born Pennsylvania, and was a son of a German emigrant who came to the United States at a very early daj' and settled in that state. Jacob wedded Rhoda Harnett and became the father of the following offspring: Isaac, Abner, Jacob, James, John, Ella, Mahala, Mary, Belinda, Maria and Annie. The parents in an early day settled in Belmont county, Ohio, and subsequently became residents of Henry county, Ind., where the mother died. Later the father located in Howard county, where his death occurred. This early pioneer was a soldier of the war of 181 2, and served under General Harrison. He was present and witnessed Col. Dick Johnson shoot the Indian chief Tecumseh, who was shot in the left breast as he arose from behind a thistle patch, dressed in a crude leather suit from which the dust flew when struck by the bullet. John Davis, our subject's father, was born in Belmont county, Ohio, and died in Marshall county, Ind., November 30, 1869, aged sixty-one years two months and fifteen days. With his parents he came to Indiana, and located in Henry county, where he was united in marriage with Mary Atkinson, who was born in Belmont county, Ohio, dying in Marshal! county P^ebruary 9, 1882, aged sixty-one years four months and fourteen days. The above marriage resulted in the birth of the following children: Jane, Daniel B., James M., Rhoda E., John J., Charles, George W., Hannah M., Hulda, Olive O., Rose A. and Elias. P>om their marriage up to 1846 the parents resided in Plenry county, Ind. From 1846 up to 1862 they resided in Howard county. In November of 1862 they located in Walnut township, of this county, and here continued till called away by death. The father was a farmer by occupation, and well-respected citizen. James M. Davis, the

subject of this sketch, was born in Henry county, Ind., November i, 1842, and was reared and educated on a farm. Upon reaching his majority he began life for himself, with a capital of $1,000. For over seven years he was engaged in buying and selling of cattle, but he has for some time been engaged in farming and moving of houses, moving annually about fifty houses. October 8, 1866, he was united in marriage with Martha E. Dawson, who was born in Fayette county, Ind., May 12th, 1848. Unto the above marriage there have been born four children, namely-: Elnora F., Mary M.,Cora B. and James D. Mr. Davis enlisted April 5, 1865, in Company A, Fifty-third Indiana volunteer infantry, and was discharged September 3, 1865. Mr. Davis is a member of the Christian Temperance Union and in politics -a democrat.

Moses Dawson was born in Marshall county, Ind., June 29, 1846, and is a son of William Dawson, who was born in Tennessee, April 26, 1801, and who died in Argos, Ind., December 30, 1887. His father, Benjamin Dawson, had the following children: John, William, Benjamin, Jesse, Jane, Thomas, Joseph and Charles. William Dawson moved from ItIs native state to Kentucky with his parents in an early day, and there grew to manhood. He came to Indiana, and drifting to Vigo county, was there married in 1832, to Sarah Greer, which union resulted in the birth of the following children: John, Delilah, William, Elizabeth, George, Moses and Frances. In 1836, the parents and four children left Vigo county, and came to Marshall county, settling in Walnut township, in a locality that was hardly more than a wilderness. Farming was the father's occupation. He was a good citizen, and died a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. He was at the time of his death, the oldest citizen of Walnut township, and was universally respected by all. Moses Dawson, the subject of this sketch, was born and reared on a farm, and farming has been his occupation. He remained with his parents till past seventeen years of age and then attempted to enlist in the United States army, but he was rejected on account of being too young. He then followed boating on the Wabash and Erie canal for twelve years, and when the canal trade ceased, he returned to Marshall county, where he has since followed farming. He was -.married November n, 1877, to Miss Judith Fox, who was born in Wayne county, Ind., July 31, 1852. Mr. Dawson and wife are members of the Christian church, and are highly respected. He is a member of the Argos lodge. No. 212, and in politics is a staunch republican.

Eli W. Deemer was born in Hancock county, Ohio, August 10, 1836, and is a son of Peter and Lydia (Johnson) Deemer. The father was born in Westmoreland county, Penn., in 1802, the son of Joseph and Rachel (Miller) Deemer. Joseph Deemer was born in Pennsylvania, of German descent, and was the father of four sons, namely: Jonas, John, Andrew and Peter, and several daughters. The parents both died in Pennsylvania. Peter Deemer was a cooper by trade and a farmer by occupation. In Hancock county, Ohio, in 1S32, he was united in marriage with Lydia Johnson, daughter of Isaac and Christina (Miller) Johnson, both natives of Pennsylvania, she of English and the other of German descent. Lydia Johnson was born in Scioto county, Ohio, in 1813, and her marriage with Peter Deemer resulted in the birth of the following offspring: John A., Eli W., Eliza A., James F. and George W. The parents removed from Ohio to Marion county, Ind., in 1840, thence to Marshall county in 1851,. and to Iowa in 1870. In 1883 they moved to Michigan, where the father died in 18S9. The mother resides with our subject at present, and is in her seventy-eighth year. Eli VV. Deemer, the immediate subject of this sketch, was reared and educated on a farm. He came to Marshall county with his parents in 1851, and remained with them till past twenty-one years .of age. He did much work with his father in chopping and clearing the timber from the land they prepared for their cultivation. Mr. Deemer has spent his entire life in farming and saw-milling. He was married in 1859, wedding Sallie Brown, daughter of Charles and Lucy (Connor) Brown. The father was born in New York, of English descent, while the mother was born in Ireland. Unto the parents were born: Lucetta, Malissa, James, Jane, Matilda, Sallie, Keziah, Charles C, Sylvanus and Lucy. Sallie, who is now Mrs. Deemer, was born March 20, 1841, in Walnut township, this county, to which county her parents came in an early day. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Deemer's marriage there have been born the following children: James A., Ora M., John L., Charlie B., Jessie C, Emma L., Carry M. and Lucy Pearl. Soon after his marriage Mr. Deemer located and farmed for a short time in Bourbon township, and for eight years subsequent followed saw-milling in Tippecanoe township. In 1867 he located in Whitley county, Ind., where he followed farming and saw-milling for another period of eight years, and in 1875 returned to Marshall county, where he has since resided. He located on the Brown homestead in Walnut township, the birthplace of Mrs. Deemer, and remained here until the fall of 188S, when he located in Argos, where he now resides. In October, 18S9, Mr. Deemer opened a meat market in Argos, and besides operating this he is still farming and stock-raising. He is a representative business man and farmer, a staunch republican and a well respected citizen.

S. S. Fish, a teacher by profession, and farmer by occupation, one of the young and progressive citizens of Walnut township, was born in Jay county, Ind., July 31, 1849, the son of Samuel and Nancy (Gillam) Fish. The father was born in New Jersey, in 1799, and died in Marshall county, in 1871. He was a son of George Fish, and when young, came to Indiana, and about 1820, married and located in Fayette count3^ later removed to Franklin county, thence to Vigo, thence to Jay, and in 1853, to Marshall county. Later in 1856, a removal was made to Missouri; and in i860, the final location was made in this county. Unto the marriage of Samuel and Nancy Fish, were born the following children: Eliza J., Jonathan J., Benjaman F., George, Mary, Elizabeth, John M., Samuel R., Thomas W., Silas S. and William L. The father was a farmer by occupation, and a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, while the mother was a member of the Christian church. Silas S. Fish, the immediate subject of this sketch, was reared on a farm, and received a liberal education in the common schools. At the age of twenty years, he began teaching in the public schools, and has since been identified with educational work, either as teacher or township trustee, serving as trustee of Walnut township from 1884 to 1886. He is one of the most practical and successful teachers of the county. In 1873 he was united in marriage with Jemima M. Wimmer, daughter of William Wimmer, early settler of Henry county, this state, in which county Mrs. Fish was born. May 11, 1852. The children that have been born unto this marriage are Claud D., Maud A., Grace E. and Metta F. Mr. Fish is a member of the Argos lodge, No. 212, K. of P., and also of the Improved Order of Red Men, of Walnut, Shawnee Tribe, No. 19. He is a self-educated and self-made man, progressive and enterprising, and in politics is a staunch democrat.

W. H. J. Flagg was born in Miami county, Ind., January 28 1842. He is a son of Alwin and Mila (Flagg) Flagg. The father was born in New York, August 11, 1799, and died in Marshall county, Ind., in May of 1S53. Mila Flagg was born in New York, May 13, 1805, and died in this county in 1855. The parents were married in New York in October of 1838, and their marriage resulted in the birth of four children, namely: Lauraette (deceased), William H. J., Lauraette and Alphonso. The family settled in Marshall county, Ind., in 1848, locating in Union township, in the woods near Lake Maxinkuckee, where both parents afterward died. In the early forties they had settled in Miami county, removing from their native state. In their deaths they left three orphan children, of whom our subject was the oldest. He assumed the duty of looking after and rearing the other children, and held the old homestead till 187 1, when it was sold at an advantage. Our subject enlisted as a private, February 11, 1865, in Company I, One-hundred and Fifty-first Indiana volunteer infantry, and September 19, 1865, was discharged, by reason of the close of war. He then returned to Marshall county, and June 17, 1871, was united in marriage with Julia A. Flagg, a na- tive of Ohio, born October 14, 1849. Unto the marriage there have been born three children, namely: George E. (deceased), Charles E. and Omer E. Mr. Flagg is a carpenter by trade, and followed the trade up to 1SS4; in this year he built an eating house at the Nickel Plate depot in Argos; this eating house he operated till 1SS8. In March of 1888, he became proprietor of the Argos house, which he ran two years. He is now engaged in the lumber business at Argos. He is a member of the G. A. R., Lafayette Gordon post. No. 132, and of the I. O. O. P., Argus lodge. No. 263, and in politics he is an ardent republican.

Asa Forsythe, a farmer and prominent citizen of Walnut township, was born in Shelby county, Ind., May 10, 1844, and is a son of Enoch and Anna (Snyder) Forsythe. The parents were born and married in Shelby county, and their union was blessed with the birth of the following children: Jackson, William, Parthina, Asa, Lucinda and Parsilla. Asa Forsythe was born, reared and educated on a farm, and upon reaching manhood began the struggle of life as a farmer. In 1S69, he wedded Sarah Meachling, a native of Fulton county, Ind., born January 25, 1851. This marriage has resulted in the birth of five children, namely:

Anna, George, Newton, Ollie and Grace. Mr. Forsythe has resided in Marshall county since 1868, and though he began the struggle of life a poor man, he has grown prosperous, and now owns over 200 acres of good land. He is an industrious and practical farmer and a well respected citizen.

William C. Gordon was born in Walnut township, this county. May 30, 1848, and is a son of John M. Gordon. The father was born in Butler county, Ohio, December 16, 1813, the son of Robert and Ellen (McGary) Gordon. Robert Gordon was born in Pennsylvania, of Scotch descent, and was a school teacher by profession. Ellen, his wife, was born in Kentucky, and was a daughter of John and Fannie McGary, natives of Ireland. Robert and Ellen were married in Butler county, Ohio, and unto their marriage were born the following children: Sandford, William M., John M., Fannie, Jane, Sarah, Asa, Ellen and Isaac. In later years the parents resided with their son John M., in Marshall county, where they died. John M. Gordon when a young man went to St. Joseph county, Ind., and there, in 1835, was married to Barsheba Roe, a daughter of Charles and Barsheba (Watson) Roe, the former born on Long Island of English descent, and the latter born in Virginia of Scotch and Dutch descent. The daughter was born in Wayne county, Ind., June 3, 1817. Her marriage with John M. Gordon resulted in the birth of the following offspring: Lorinda, Louisa, Lucinda, William C, Melissa E. and Alfaretta. John M. Gordon came with his parents to Wayne county in about 1S28, and soon after his marriage in St. Joseph county he settled down in life in Michigan territory, later removed to Wayne county, then in 1S42 settled in Marshall county, where he has since resided. He has followed farming for an occupation, and is now among the oldest and best respected citizens of the county. He and wife are members of the Christian church, and enjoy the esteem and confidence of all who know them. Their son William C, was reared on the farm and given a fair common school education. Upon reaching the age of twenty-one years he began the struggle of life for himself as a farmer. December 27, 1869, he was united in marriage with Eliza J. Spencer, who was born in Wayne county, Ohio, May 15, 1853. The above union has been blessed by the birth of the following offspring: Lillie M., deceased, John N., Myrta O., Lowie, Netta B., Elery B. and Charles C. Mrs. Gordon is a daughter of Nathan and Mary (Foltz) Spencer, both natives of Pennsylvania, and of Dutch descent. They settled in Marshall county in 1S57. Soon after Mr. and Mrs. Gordon's marriage they settled on forty acres of land in Walnut township, where Mr. Gordon built a log hut and began the earnest struggle of life. He has been an industrious and successful farmer, and has grown from a poor man to a prosperous station of life. He owns 13S acres of well-improved land, and is one of the foremost farmers of Walnut township. His wife is a zealous member of the Baptist church, and Mr. Gordon is a member of the Argos lodge. No. 212, K. of P., and in politics he is an ardent and leading democrat. He has very creditably filled the office of assessor of his township for two terms, and in 1888 he was elected trustee in a closely divided township, politically against him, by a majority of one vote. He served one term as trustee, and in the spring of 1890 was reelected b}^ a majority of twenty-eight votes. As an official Mr. Gordon is a cautious and judicious man, and zealously watches and performs the duties before him. He is a friend to his fellow citizens, and is an honest, upright man.