Miami County, Indiana - Chapter 15, 1887 (part 2 of 2)

HARRISON GRIMES, one of Miami County's pioneers and one among the early settlers of Union Township, was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, February 14, 1823. He was the oldest child born to Jeremiah and Barbara (Hashbarger) Grimes, natives of Mar\land and Virginia respectiveh', the former of Irish and the latter of Dutch descent. Harrison left home at the earl}- age of ten years and went to Preble County, Ohio, where he worked upon a farm for his board and clothes until he reached the age of sixteen, when he was given his choice of keeping his place or learning the blacksmith's trade. After due consideration he chose the latter, but owing to an inaccurate understanding with the man who was to give him the instruction, he abandoned the notion of learning the trade and concluded to remain upon the farm, which he did until he was twentv-one of age. He had been bound to his cmplo}er, who, wlien Harrison became of age, was to give him one hundred and fifty dollars. He took a horse worth fifty dollars and one hundred dollars in money, which represented his entire capital at that time. Upon leaving the farm he came on foot, with a thirty-seven and one-half pound budget upon his back, to this county. This was in March, 1844. Here he worked upon a farm until the following June, when he walked the entire distance back to Preble County, Ohio, but in the following August he again came to this county - this time on horseback. During the first 3ear of his residence here he worked by the month and job at any and all kinds of work which he could find to do. In 1846 he purchased a farm of ninety-three acres in Section 16, Union Township. There he located, and immediately set about clearing up a farm. To do this without any assistance necessarih- devolved upon him a great deal of hard work. He chopped, grubbed, burned brush, rolled logs, plowed, and in fact did all kinds of hard work which the de\elopment of a new country necessitates. Since then he has purchased other lands, until at one time he owned about 1,000 acres. His attention during his entire life has been given to agricultural pursuits, though he has in more recent \ears given some attention to the grain business, the buying and selling of hogs, and to the raising of fine stock. He was married on the 4th of May, 1845, to Elizabeth Brower, a native of Montgomery County, Ohio, born of Dutch descent, February 8, 1826. She was the daughter of George and Sarah (Swihart) Brower, both natives of Virginia. Mr. and Mrs. Grimes ha\e had nine children. Their names are: Josiah, born July 31, 1846: Hiram, born January 5, 1848, died September 12, 1880; Joiin H., born March i, 1849, ^^^^ February 11, 1853; Sarah D., born August 22, 1851; George T., born October 24, 1854; Albert, born September 5, 1856; Martha J., born December 24,. 1857; William, born June 29, 1859, and Charles, born October 13, 1868. Politically, Mr. Grimes is a Republican. He has held the office of Assessor in Union Township two terms. He has, where he resides, a fine farm of 187 acres, nearh- all of which is in a high state of cultivation. His farm is fitted up with good buildings and fences, and is one of the most desirable locations in the county. Mr. Grimes is an honest, upright, square-dealing man, a pushing and enterprising farmer, and a good citizen. He tegan life without a dollar, but through industr\-, perseverance and economy, he is now in good circumstances.

DANIEL GRISWOLD (dealer in grain and seed, and also agent of the Wabash, St. Louis & Pacific R. R., Mexico, Ind.) was born in Lamoille County, Vermont, August 24, 1830. His parents, John and Mary (Weeks) Griswold, were natives of Vermont and Massachusetts, respectivel}-. The former was a son of Daniel and Sarah Griswold, who were both natives of Vermont, where the mother died, and he subsequently married a Miss Berry and moved to Miami County, Ind., in the year 1845, where he afterward resided until death. He was the father of six children. John Griswold, the father of our subject, was born in Franklin County, Vermont, in the year 1805, and was married to the above Mary Weeks in 1826, who was born in Massacliusetts in the year 1801. After their marriage they settled in Lamoille County, Vermont, where the}' resided some time, and from thence moved to Massachusetts, and from there to Miami County. Ohio, and subsequently to Darke County, and from thence to Miami Count\', Ind., in 1S44, settling at Alexico, where the}' afterwards resided until their deaths, which occurred as follows: The mother died in 1873, and the father in 1886. Thev were the parents of two children, Adelia, and Daniel, our subject, the elder member of the family. He came with his parents to this county in 1844, and has resided here principally since. In 1852 he went to California, where he engaged in mining until 1854. Haying engaged in the merchantile business at Mexico, Ind., with his father preyiously, after his return to Mexico, Ind., in 1S54, he again engaged in the mercantile trade with his father, and was united in marriage at Mexico May i, 1854, to Louisa, daughter of Henry and Alary (Howard) Bliss. In i860 he purchased 196 acres of land in Section 7, Jefferson Township. In 1863 he sold his interest in the store. In 1872 he began the grain and seed trade at Mexico, Ind., and has engaged in the same ever since. In 1876 he purchased stock in the Mexico Manufacturing Company, which he still owns. In 1867 he was elected to the office of trustee of Jefferson Township. He is a member of the Masonic order. He has had born to him eight children, viz: Alton (deceased), John, Cassius N., George, Edward, Nellie (deceased), Emma and May. Mr. Griswold is an intelligent and enterprising man. DANIEL IL\RTER is a native of Preble County Ohio, and was born March 4, 1834. ^'^ parents, Jacob and Elizabeth (Rhoads) Harter, were natives of Virginia and PennsyKania, respectively. They settled in Montgomery County, Ohio, in an early day, and from thence moved to Preble County, Ohio, and from there to Miami County, Indiana, in about the year 1849, and settled upon the same farm upon which our subject now resides, where they afterwards resided until deaths, which occurred as follows: The father died May 30, 1879, ^^ '^^e age of 77 years, 7 months and 18 days, and the mother died May 8, 1881, at the age of 77 years and 7 months. They were the parents of eight children, viz : Rebecca, Mary, John, Daniel, George, Catharine,' Elizabeth and Nancy. Daniel, our subject, came with his parents to this county in 1849, and has resided here since. He was united in marriage in Jefferson Township, this county, November 21, 1867, to Nancy, daughter of^ Levi and Ursula Miller. She was born in Miami County, Indiana, July 21, 1844. After Mr. Harter married, he settled upon his present farm, where he has resided since. He owns, at present, 360 acres of fine and well improved land. He lost his wife by death, January 19, 1879, ^^^ having borne four children, viz: Dora O., born September 25, 1868; William E., born June 21, 1870; Iva L., born March 11, 1872 (deceased); Delbert D., born Juh' i, 1875. ^I'"- Harter is one of the substantial and enterprising men of Miami County. He is a wide-awake citizen and is highly esteemed by all who him. .

MICHAEL HINER, an old and highly esteemed pioneer of Miami County, Indiana, is a native of Highland County, Virginia, and was born July 10, 1819. His parents, John and Rachel (Hoover) Hiner, were also both natives of Highland County, Virginia, and of Scotch-Irish extraction. The former, John Hiner, was a son of John and Margaret (Burner) Hiner, who were married in Highland Count}', Virginia, where they resided until deaths. They were the parents of eleven children, viz: Alexander, Joseph, Jacob, Herman, John, Esther, Jemima, Molly, Mary, Jane and Lucinda. John Hiner, the father of our subject, and Rachel Hoover, were united in marriage in Highland County, Ohio, and from thence in 1836, moved to Miami County, Indiana, settling in Peru Township, where they afterward resided until death. Thev were the parents of nine children, viz: Margaret, Mariah, Catherine, Herman. Elizabeth, Michael, Eli, John and Joseph. Michael, our subject, came with his parents to this county, in 1836, and has resided here since. He was married in Richland Township, this county, May i, 1843, to Catherine S., daughter of Samuel D. and Catherine ( Deff enbaugh ) Rank. She was born in Union County, Pennsyhania, February 26, 1826. In 1862, Mr. Hiner, our subject, settled upon the farm on which he now resides, in Jefferson Township, Section 18, and has since resided. He owns at present. 277 acres of fine and well improved land. He has had born to him eleven children, viz: Mary, Rachel, Samuel, Mariah. Catherine, Ada, Agnes, Ruth, Jesse, and two which died in infancy and not named.

VINXENT C. HOMAX is a native of Preble County, Ohio. His parents, Benjamin and Rachel (Curtis) Homan, were natives of Pennsylvania and New Jersey respectively. The former, Benjamin Homan, was a son of Eber and Jane (McPurdy | Homan. who were natives of New York and Ireland, and were born as follows: The former at Long Island City, New York, September 7, 1764, the latter in Ireland, Ma\- 25, 1775. They were married in Pennsyhania and settled in Fayette County, where the mother died April 14. 18 10. He subsequenth' married again and moved to the State of Ohio, where he died March 25, 1840. They were the parents of seven children, viz: David, born September 26, 1802: James: born October, 1803: Phebe, bori^ November 7, 1804: Eder, born March 16. 1806; Jane, born June 7, 1807; Keder, born May 29, 1809, and Benjamin, the father of our subject, the eldest member of the family, born in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, August 13, 1801. He and Rachel Curtis were married in Warren

Biographical Skktches

CduiUv, Ohio, March 27, 1823. She was born in New Jersey, Jul}- 14, 1S02. After Mr. Benjamin and Rachel lloman's marriage, they tirst settled in Warren Count}-, Ohio, atid subsequenll}- moved to Clinton County, Ohio, and from thence to Preble County, Oliio, where he still resides. His wife died July 15, 1844, and he subsequently married Mari^aret Grissam. lie is the father of se\-en children, viz: William, born February 13, 1S24, and died July 3, 1S32; Ezra, born October 24, 1827, and died July 9, 1832; Sarah J., born October 3, 1S32; Vincent C, born October 18, 1837, and Mary E., born May 16, 1841, by the first wife, Rachel; and Benjamin F., born September 17, 1847, and Nancy K., born August 5, 1849, bv his last wife, Margaret. \'incent C, our subject, was educated in Preble County, Ohio, was raised on a farm until histwentv-lirst year, after which he clerked in a grocery at Eaton, Ohio, for a short time, and in August, 1859, he, in partnership with his father, purchased a stock of groceries at that place and engaged in business until March, 1865, at which time he sold out and came to Me.xico, hidiana, and in April of that year, purchased a half interest in a stock of general merchandise at Mexico, Indiana, with Janies L. Wilson, with whom he carried on business until September. 18S2, at which time they traded their stock of-goods for a tract of land in Pulaski County, Indiana, consisting of 662 acres, of which Mr. Iloman ownes a half interest. He also owns 150 acres of fine land in Jefferson Township. Miami County, which he purchased in 18S4. He also owns stock in the Mexico Manufacturing Companv, and a line residence in Mexico, where he resides. He was married at Mexico, Indiana, October 27, 1863, to Sarah J., daughter of James and Sarah ( Ault) Wilson. She was born in Preble Countv, Ohio, July i, 1840. Mr. Homan is an intelligent and enterprising man, and is highl}- esteemed by all who know him. He is a member of the Masonic order, and he and his wife are members of the M. E. Church.

CHARLES H. KLINE (of the firm of Khne & Bender, dealers in hardware, stoves, tinware, paints, glass, sash, doors, etc., Mexico, Indiana) is a native of Berks County. Pennsylvania, and was born January 27, 1837. His parents, Josiah and Hannah (Snyder) Kline, were also both natives of Pennsylvania, and were born as follows: The father, March 13, 181 2, and the mother, February 8, 181 4. After their marriage, they settled first in Berks County and resided for some time, after which they moved to Lehigh County, where they still reside. They are the parents of seven children, viz: E^clwin S., William S., Amanda E., Mary A., Benjamin F., Preston J. and Charles H., our subject, the eldest member of the family. lie was educated in Penns}lvania. and engaged in farming and teaching school. He enlisted in the service July 20, 1861, in Battery A, Fifth United States Artillery, and served until January

27, 1863, at which time he was discharged and returned home. He was wounded at the battle of Malvern Hill, Virginia, on July i, 1862, by rifle balls, one through the left shoulder and one through the riglit foot. In the spring of 1 864, he came to Miami County, Indiana, and after a short stay, returned to Pennsylvania, and in the spring of 1865, he went to Kansas, where he engaged in driving teams for the government, and in July, 1865, returned to Miami County, Indiana, where he was united in marriage, on August 27, 1865, to Martha, daughter of Philip and Rosanna (Long) Sullivan. She was born in Williams County, Ohio, March 4, 1844. After Mr. Kline's marriage, he settled on Eel River, near Mexico, where he engaged in the lumber business until 188 1, when he moved to Me.xico, Indiana, and engaged in the hardware business, which he has since continued. He also owns a large interest in the Mexico manufacturing establishment, of which he is the present president. He was elected to the oflke of Trustee of Jefferson Township in 1874, and held the office for three successive terms. He had born to him five children, viz: Carrie E., Minnie C, Rosa A., Elmer E. (deceased ), and Elbert S. Mr. Kline is a member of the Masonic Order: also, a member of the Odd Fellows' Order. He and wife are members of the Reformed Church. Mr. Kline is an enterprising citizen, as well as a wide-awake business man.

JOHN H. LANTZ (of the firm of Lantz & Duncan, dealers in general merchandise, Mexico, Ind.) was born in Union Township, this count}', Aug. 12, 1855, and is the son of Gabriel and Caroline (Ream) Lantz. He was married in Union Township, this county, February 24, 1876, to Miss Priscilla, daughter of William D. and Harriet (Mann ) Tracy. She was born in Miami County, Ind., September 5, 1S59. In April, 1876, Mr. John H. Lantz, our subject, settled at Denver, Ind., where he opened up a flour and feed store, which he continued for several months, and in the fall of 1878 he moved to Mexico, Ind. In Julv, 1881, he opened up a meat market at that place, and in October, 1884, opened up a stock of groceries 'in partnership with Philip Sullivan, and at the same time carried on butchering. In April, 1885, Mr. Sullivan sold out his interest to Matthew Duncan, since which time the firm has been Lantz & Duncan. In April, 18S6, they disposed of their meat market and have since turned their full attention to the mercantile trade, and are at present commanding a large and e.xtensive business. In April, 18S6, they purchased a half interest^ in the large and commodious brick building known as the Wilson & Homan block, into which they moved their stock of goods, and bv adding more to it the}' now have one of the largest and finest stocks of general merchandise in the place. They are both wide-awake and enterprising young business men, and are highh" esteemed by all who know them. Mr. Lantz has liad horn to him one child, Maud D., born Juh- 17, 1881. Mr. Lantz and wife are members of the Baptist Church.

PHILIP M. LAWRENCE, of Denver, was born in Auglaize County. Ohio, October, 9, 1850. He was the third son born to John and Nancy (White) Lawrence, the former a native of Pennsj-lvania,. and the latter a native of Maryland. When Philip was 3et a child, he accompanied his parents to St. Joseph Count}-, this State. They came to this county in 1857, and located at Chili, Richland Township. In the \icinity of that place Philip spent liis youth, working iipt)n a tarni. In 1866 he accepted a position as brakeman upon the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad, between Crestline, Ohio, and Pittsburgh. He was thus emplo\'ed nearly one year. He then returned to this county, and for one \ear worked upon a farm. He then went to Iowa, where he worked upon a farm about eighteen months. He then returned once more to this countv and located at Chili, where he bejran to work at the blacksmith's trade. This has received his attention ever since, excepting one year, in which he acted as agent for a sewing machine company. He located in Denver in August, 1884. Jul\- 30, 1873, he was married to Laura A. Smith, a native of Allen County, this State, born May 8, 1856. She was the daughter of E^aniel and Ruth Ann (Homan) Smith, both natives of Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence have had three children. Thev are, Arba, born April 30, 1875; Edna Zoe, born October 9, 1877, and Loa L., born May 25, 1879: all of whom are living. Mr. Lawrence is a member of the F. and A. M. Lodge and a Democrat in politics. He was elected to the office of Justice of the Peace in the spring of 1886, and is the present incumbent. He is an industrious \'oung man, a good workman and a number one citizen.

LEV'I MILLER, an old and highly esteemed pioneer of Miami County, Indiana, was born in Augusta County, Virginia, February 23, 1817. His parents, Abraham and Nancy (Moses) Miller, were both natives of Augusta Countv, Virginia, where they were married and resided until 1833, when they moved to Preble Count}-, Ohio, where the father died. The mother subsequently came with her children to Miami Countv, Indiana, where she departed life. They were the parents of eleven children, viz: Catharine, Levi, Daniel, Isaac, Elisha, John, Abraham, Nancy, Rebecca, Jacob, and an infant son, which died in infancy and not named. Levi, our subject, was married in Preble County, Ohio, in November, 1840, to Ursula, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Eikenberry) Albaugh. In Februar\-, 1842, Mr. Miller, our subject, moved to Miami County, Indiana, and settled upon the farm on which he now resides, in Section 4, Jefferson Township, where he has resided since. Mr. Miller

Started in life a poor boy, beginning in this county on i6o acres of woodland, upon which he toiled and labored hard, and succeeded in clearing up his land, and from that, little by little, he added to his lands, and through hard work and well directed industry, his estate magnified to about one thousand acres of tine land. He distributed among his children, and after giving them all line homes, he still owns 1 20 acres of tine and well improved land, and tine propert\- in the city of Peru, Indiana: also in the Mexico saw-mill and planing factory. He is also a stockholder in the Citizens' Bank of Peru, Indiana. He lost his wife by death in October, 1876. He had born to him by her ten children, viz : Abraham, Elizabeth, Nancy, Sarah, Mary A., Rebecca, John H., William I., Eli and Joseph E. Mr. Miller is a member of the German Bapdst Church.

ABRAHAM MILLER, son of Levi and Ursula (Albaugh) Miller, was born in Preble County, Ohio, October 11, 1S41. He came to this county with his parents in 1842, where he resided until 1867, when he went to Johnson County, Missouri, where he purchased land, and engaged in farming. He was there married. December 25, 1870, to Mary E., daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth J. (Alexander) Wampler. She was born in. Hamilton County. Indiana. January' 13, 1851. In December, 1870, immediately after our subject's marriage, he moved to Miami County, Indiana, and settled upon the farm upon which he 90W resides, in Jefferson Township, Section 19, where he owns 255 acres of tine and well improved land. He has had born to him seven children, viz : Florence, born October 7, 1871: Clara, born July 6, 1873, died March 12, 1877; Ursula, born April 26, 18751 Oscar L.. born April 5, 1877: Rebecca, born May 10, 1880: Gilbert I., born January 12, 1883, and Leroy, born Aufifust 31, 1886. Mr. Miller and wife are members of the German Baptist Church.

ABRAHAM L. MILLER, son of Isaac and Anna (Ly brook) Miller, was born in Jefferson Township, this county, October 11, 1847. He was married in Richland Township, this county. March 31, 1870, to Rebecca S., daughter of Lewis and Sarah (Shideler) Trent. She was born in Miami County, Indiana, April i, 1852. After Mr. Miller, our subject's, marriage, he settled upon the farm on which he now resides, in Jefferson Township, Section 33, where he has resided since. His wife died May 25, 1872, having borne him one child. Otto E., born July 31, 1871. On February 26, 1874, Mr. Miller married Elizabeth, daughter of Noah and Anna (^Trouts) Fonts. She was born in this county. October 28, 1851. Seven children were born to this union, viz: Elbert G., born January 6, 1875: Marion E., born October i, 1876: Anna, born March 15, 1878: Truman E., born March 31, 1880: Howard E., born September 9, 1881 ; May, born May 28, 1S83, and Flora, born Februar\- 7. 188 v Mr. Miller owns 201"^ acres of tine and well

JOHN II. MILLER, son of Levi and Ursula ( Albaugh) Miller, was born in Jefferson Township, this countv, November 9, 1852. He was married in Jefferson Townshi]-), this countv, March 26, 1874, ^o Rebecca A., daughter of William Stroud. She was born in Cass County, Ind., Januar}- 20, 1855. After Mr. Miller, our subject's, marriage, he settled upon the same farm on which he now resides, where he owns 360 acres of tine and well-impro\'ed land. He lost his wife by death January II, 1879, hiivi'ig borne to him one child. Bertha E., born August 6, 1875. On November 28, 1881, he married Emma, daughter of Isaac and Talittia (Stinglev) Constant. She was born in Cass Count}-, Ind., April 30, 1862. One child has been born to this union, Walter L., born August 28, 1883. Mr. Miller is a wide-awake and enterprising young man, and is highly esteemed bv all who know him.

JOHN F. MYERS, Commissioner of Miami County, Indiana, is a wide-awake and enterprising citizen, and is one of the most extensive farmers and stock dealers of Jefferson Township. He is a native of Germany, and was born near Hanover, December 25, 1828. His parents, Nicholas C. and Catharine Myers, were also both natives of Germany, and emigrated from there to the United States in 1833, settling in Miami County, Indiana, where they afterward resided until death. They were the parents of eight children, viz : Catharine E., John F., Henry, Mary, Emma, Elizabeth, Isaac N. and an infant son which died young and not named. John F., our subject, came with his parents to this county in 1833 and has resided here since. He was married in Peru Township, this county, in January, 1852, to Elizabeth, daughter of John and Mary (Cromer) Bowman, and afterwards settled upon his father's farm in Peru Township where he resided until the spring of 186 1, when he settled upon the farm on which he now resides, in section 14, Jefferson Township. He owns at present 650 acres of fine and well improved land, 284 acres of which lie in Miami County and 366 acres in Cass County. He lost his wife b}- death, November 3, 1883, having borne to him eleven children, \iz: Lewis (deceased), John F., James B. (deceased), William H. (deceased), George W., Amanda J., Ira D., Frank S., Milton H., Benjamin (deceased), and one which died in infancy and not named. On January 22, 1885, Mr. Myers married Levina, daughter of Enoch and Mary (Myers) Bowman; having born to him by this lady, one child, Edna. Mr. Myers was elected to the office of Commissioner of this county in 1882.

and was born May 3, 181 5. His parents, Jonathan and Mahala (Cox) Newman, were both natives of Tennessee, and from thence emigrated to Montgomery County, Ohio, in an early day, where they were married, and afterward resided until death. They were the parents of nine children, viz: Isaac, Cyntha, Mary A., Samuel K., Jane C, Elijah, Matthew C, Jonathan E., and one which died in infancy and not named. Isaac, our subject, was married in Miami Count}-, Ohio, March 6, 1834, *o Susannah, daughter of Uaniel and Mollie Hoover, and in September, 1835, h*^ moved to Miami County, Indiana, settling upon the same farm on which he now resides, in Section 23, Jefferson Township, where he has remained since. He lost his wife by death, July 20, 1851, having had born to him by her seven children, viz: Matilda, Benjamin F., Mary J., Sarah, James P., Daniel B., and one which died in infancv and not named. On September 8, 1853, Mr. Newman married Mary Conner (wife of John Conner, deceased). Mr. Newman owns 160 acres of fine and well improved land. He is an enterprising and highly esteemed man.

ELIAS OLINGER (dealer in general merchandise, Me.vico, Ind. ) is a native of Montgomery County, Ohio, and was born March 20, 1835. His parents, George and Barbara (Shoemaker) Olinger, settled in Miami County, Ind., in about the year 1846. They were the parents of four children, viz: Anna, Levi, Sarah and Elias, our subject, the eldest member of the family. He came with his parents to Miami County in 1846, where he has resided ever since. He engaged in harness making for a number of years, after which he engaged in shoemaking and also handling ready made goods. He began in life with a very small capital, and b}- well-directed industry he added to his stock, little bv little, until he has now a fine stock of general merchandise of nearly $5,000. He married Eveline Skinner, by whom he has had born to him two children, viz: William L. and Laura D. This ladv died, and he subsequently married Pauline Reed, by whom he is father of three children, viz: Grace D., Barbara E. and Jesse (deceased).

WILLIAM O. PIPER, one of the prominent business men of Denver, was born in Seneca County, Ohio, October 26, 1837. He was the fifth son born to John and Elmira (Bassett) Piper, the fcirmL'r a native of Pennsylvania, and the latter a native of Vermont, of Scotch and Irish descent respectively. When W illiam was seven years old, he accompanied his parents to this county, and located with them in the woods of Union Township. That was in 1844. There our subject spent his boyhood and youth, working upon his father's farm. At the age of twenty he left home and went to Ogle County, Illinois, where he worked upon a farm by the month, one year. He then returned to this county, and during the three years which followed, he taught school in the winter time and worked upon the farm, and at threshintj during the sunuiier. October 8, iS6i, he enlisted into the service of his country in Company G, 51st Indiana regiment, from which he was honorably discharged December 16, 1864, having, in the meantime, been promoted to the rank of sergeant. He participated in the battles of Stone River, those attending the raid of Col. Streight, and Franklin. He was taken prisoner near Rome, Ga., and for a short time was imprisoned at Belle Isle. Virginia, but was soon liberated by exchange. At the close of the war he went to Newton County, this State, and engaged in farming. Four years later he returned to this county, but a year later he went to Topeka, Kansas, where, in the spring of 1870. he engaged in the real estate business. In the following October he again returned to this county and located at Denver, where he has ever since been engaged in the mercantile business. January i, 1861, he was married to Ann E. Charles, a native of \Va}ne County, this State, and daughter of Reuben K. and Margaret (^Cunningham) Charles, nati\-es of Preble County, Ohio, and Virginia, respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Piper have had seven children, six sons and one daughter, all of whom are living. Their names are Charles E., William J., Walter E., Harry M., George W., Omer S. and Clara E. Mr. Piper is a member of the F. and A. M., I. O. O. F., A. O. U. W., and G. A. R. Lodges, and a Republican in politics. He is a pleasant and intelligent gentleman, a successful business man and a number one citizen. During the last four years his attention has been divided between the mercantile business and farming. He owns 150 acres of good land adjoining the town of Denver, nearly all of which is in a high state of cultivation. Politically, Mr. Piper was a Democrat, and entered the war as such, but on returning he declared himself in favor of the Republican party, whose principles he has ever since ardently supported.

JOHN Q. A. ROBBINS, M. "D., of Denver, is a native of Wayne County, tliis State, and was born November 6, 1826. He was the second son born to Moses and Elizabeth ( Long ) Robbins, both natives of North Carolina, the former of Welsh and Irish and the latter of German descent. Our subject spent his boyhood and youth working upon his father's farm in his native county. At the age of sixteen, having decided to tit himself for the medical profession, he began the study of medicine with Dr. James Ruby, of Abington, Wayne County, with whom he diligentl}- pursued his studies for about five years. In June, 1849, he came to this county and entered upon his professional duties at Chili. Here he remained until April, 1856, when, owing to the impaired condition of his health and the death of his wife, he returned to his father's in Wayne County for recuperation. He remained there about one

3ear and a lialf, during which time lie traveled through the West for his health. On the ist day of January, 1858, he located at Abington, where he again entered upon the practice of his profession. In the latter part of November, 1881, he again came to this county, and this time located at Denver, where he has ever since been actively engaged in the practice of his profession. In the fall of 1 868, while a citizen of Abington, he entered the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgerv, where he attended one course of lectures, graduating in Februar}^ 1869. On the 17th day of Ma\', 1849, he was married to Marv C. Jarett. also a native of Wayne County, this State, born of English descent, in September, 1826. She was the daughter of William and Nancv (Wilson). Jarett, both natives of Virginia. To this union two children were born: Moses E. and John H. C, the former of whom died at the age of eleven years, and the latter died before he was two vears old. Dr. Robbins lost his lirst wife October 13, 1853, and on the 6th day of April, 1854, ^^ ^^'"^^ married to Eliza Ann W. Myers, who died February 21, 1856. She was born in Preble County, Ohio, and was the daughter of James Mvers. His second marriage resulted in the birth of one child - James Edgar, who died at the age of se\en 3ears. October 27, 1858, our subject was married to Mrs. Martha

E. Heacock, a native of Wayne County, this State, and daughter of William and Nancv (Long) Larkin, natives of Tennessee and \'irginia, respeclivelv. To this last union four children have been born. Their names are Harriet A., born August 24, 1859: Carrie J., born August I, 1862; Francis C, born June 11. 1867, and Altie H., born June 16, 1876, all of whom are living. Dr. Robbins and wife are faithful members of the M. E. Church. He is a member of the

F. & A. M. and I. O. O. F. Lodges, and a Republican in politics. He is a pleasant, intelligent gentleman, a hrst-class citizen, and as a physician is very successful.

REV. "ERWIN C. ROBBINS, of Denver, is a native of Richland Township, this count\', and was born Julv 16. 1853. He was the eldest son born to Emma D. and Alice (Clendening) Robbins, who were among the first settlers of Richland Township. Our subject spent his earlv life working upon his father's farm and attending the public school. In September, 1874, he entered the State Normal School, at Terre Haute, where he spent nearly one \ear fitting himself for the avocation of a teacher. He then began teaching and taught, in all, six terms, spending his summers upon a farm. He continued to farm until the spring of

1884. at which time he yielded to an inclination to enter the ministrj-. He immediatelv began to tit himself for this work, and in February,

1885, he was licensed to preach in the Baptist Church. His pastoral work was begun in the Palestine Church, of Fulton County, where he preached for one year. Since October, 1886, he has occupied the pulpit in the Baptist Churcli of Den\er, he lia\ iii^ located in that place in September of 1885. September, 17, 1875, he was married to Sarah A. Charles, w ho died February 29, 1884, leaving to the care of our subject, four children: Charles O., born September 27, 1877; Alta M., born August 20, 1879; Ida E., born June 16, 1881; and Kercheval, born November 23, 1883: all of whom are living. On the 19th da\' of August, 1885, Rev. Robbins was married to Mrs. Emma E. Howes, a native of Kane Count}-, IlHnois, born August 19, 1854. ^^^^ ^^'^^ the daughter of Nelson E. and Mary A. (Peck) Gowdy, both natives of Alleghany County, New York. Politically, our subject is a Republican. He and his little family are pleasantly located in Denver, where they expect to remain. He is a good citizen and an earnest and successful worker in the cause of Christianity.

PHILIP M. SMITH, operator at Denver, was born in Johnson County, this State, Mav 13, 1850. He was the second son born to Martin and Christiana (Orm| Smith, the former of whom is at present a resident of Tipton Count}', this State. When Philip was quite young his parents removed to Tipton County, where his boyhood and jouth were spent working upon his father's farm, one mile and a half west of Jackson Station. At about the age of twenty he had the misfortune to lose his left arm - the result of an accident which befell him as he was in the act of coupling cars. He then resolved to fit himself for the teacher's profession. Preparatorv to this he attended the Hi<ih School in Kokomo about six months. He then tauirht school one term, but before he half finished it he was, owing to an attack of brain fever, compelled to resign his position. After a short time spent upon a farm he then went to Indianapolis and took a course in telegraphy. That was during the winter of 1873 and '74. This finished, he returned to his father's farm in Tipton County, where he remained until March, 1875. He then accepted a position as night operator at Tipton. Here he remained until the 30th day of June following. July i, 1S75, he took the position of night operator at Denver, this county. In March of 1882 he was made dav operator at that place, which position he still continues to hold. April 18, 1877, he was married to Mary L. Hays, a native of this State, born March 8, 1852. She was the daughter of James M. and Margaret (Reynolds) Hays. Politically, Mr. Smith is a Democrat. He is a voung man of steady habits and irreproachable character, and his retention for so many in the telegraph office at Denver is evidence of the complete satisfaction gi\en his emplo\ers.

and Sarepta (Brown) Snook, both natives of Ohio. When he was one year old he accompanied his mother to Whitlev County, this State, and about 1858 they came to Miami County, his mother, in the meantime, having been married to Leonard M. Briggs. Their tirst location was at Peru, but a short time afterward they removed to Mexico. Here they remained until about 1862, when they returned to Whitley County, from whence our subject, early in the j'ear 1864, went to Peru and began to learn the printer's trade. His first work was in the office of the Peru Rcfublican, edited at the time bv W. S. Benham. He remained until in January, 1865, when, at the early age of fifteen, he entered the service of the Union Army in Company D, 151st Indiana Volunteers, from which he received an honorable discharge in the September following. At the close of the war he went to North Manchester, Wabash County, whence his mother, with her husband, had in the meantime gone, and where the former had died March 5, 1865. Having a desire to finish his trade, he worked in different places until the latter part of 1867, when he found himself in New York City. In that place he did journeyman work upon various papers for about one year. After being thus employed in several other cities until about 1809, he, having concluded to enter the medical profession, then went to Philadelphia where he attended two courses of lectures in the Eclectic Medical College. His professional duties were betrun in Fulton County. He afterwards successfully practiced his profession in Whitle}', Kosciusko and Wabash Counties. In November, 1883, he again came to this county and located at Denver, w^here his attention has been divided between the practice of medicine and the editing and management of the Denver S/e/i, a newsy little paper, which he launched into existence nearly three years ago. November 16, 1873, he was married to Mary B. Corbet, by whom he has had four children: Marion C, Lou Effie E., Oscar R., and Ida E., all of whom are living. Mrs. Snook is a member of the M. E. Church. Tne Doctor is a member of the F. & A. M. Lodge, and independent in politics.

OLIVER T. SNYDER, an enterprising young business man, of Denver, is a native of Union County, this State, and was born May 12, 1850. He was the only son born to John M. and Mary A. (Thomas) Snyder, natives of Union and Fayette Counties, this State, respectively. When our subject was about three years old he accompanied his parents to Wayne County, Indiana. There he spent hi.s boyhood and youth working upon his father's farm. He received in the public schools a good common school education, after which he continued his studies in the Centerville High School about one year. At the age of nineteen he accepted a position of traveling salesman, and was thus employed two vears. He then engaged in the lumber business, which received his attention six years. Before beginning the study of I'harniacy, he was engaged in selling books about two years, hi 1879, he began the study of Pharmacy, with a yiew to tit himself for the drug business. This was mastered in due time, and early in 1883 he came to this county and opened up a drug store at Denyer. lie was united in marriage to Sarah E. Robbins, a natiye of this county, born September 22, 1S58. She was the daughter of Hiram ^I. and Permelia (Gentry) Robbins, the former a native of Wayne County this State, born September 17, 1826, and the latter also a native of Wayne County, born May 18. 1835. Mr. Snyder is the father of two children : Carrie and Ethel. Mrs. Snyder is a member of the M. E. Church. Politically, Mr. Snyder is a Democrat, He is a pushing, energetic J'oung man, and a number one citizen. He has a neat little drug store, well stocked and is doing a good business.

MICHAEL N. TAYLOR, an old and highly respected citizen of Denver, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, February 7, 1814. He was the second son born to Samuel and Mary (Hancock) Taylor, who, when Michael was three years old, came to Indiana and located in Wayne Count\-, being among the early settlers of that locality. Our subject spent his boyhood and youth working upon his father's farm. When he had reached his majority he began farming for himself. That was in Wayne County, this State. In about the year 1836, he removed to Wabash County^ and located upon a farm four miles west of North Manchester. He had entered one hundred and sixty acres of wood land, upon which he built a cabin, and immediatel}' set about clearing up a farm. To do this without assistance, necessarily devolved upon him a great deal of hard work. He chopped, grubbed, burned brush, rolled logs, plowed, and, in fact, did all kinds of hard work which the development of a new country necessitates. The woods abounded with deer, wolves, wild turkeys, bear and Indians, and occasionally Michael found time to participate in the hunt. Upon one occasion he discovered a large bruin attacking some hogs, and a well directed shot from his rifle has entitled him to a reputation which but few enjoyed - that of killing a bear. He remained upon that farm, engaged in agricultural pursuits, until 1842, when he returned to Wayne County. A year later he came to this county and located in Richland Township, where he resided until October, 1883. At that time he removed to Denver, where he has erected a beautiful little residence, which, at present is occupied by himself and grandtlaughter. Miss Alma D. Norris. June 11, 1835, he was married to Nancy Brown, who died October, 13, 1846. She was born in Wayne County, this State, December 16, 1813, and was the daughter of William Brown, who located in Wayne County in an early day. To that marriage five children were born: Samuel A., born July 4, 1836, died November 5, 1838; Sarah J., born November 15, 1837, .deceased: Mary C., born April 30th, 1839; Lucy A., born February 6, 1843; Philtna, born October 3, 1846, died October 23, 1846. May 10, 1847, Mr. Taylor was married to Araminta Woolpert, who died April 9, 1886. She was born in Wayne County, this State, November 15, 1827, and was the daughter of Peter and Phoebe (^'ea^) Woolpert, natives of New Jersey. Mr. Tavlor has been a member of the M. E. Church over forty 3'ears. Politically he is a Republican. He began life poor, but through industry, perseverance and economv, he is permitted to spend his declining vears in comfortable circumstances. He is an honest, upright man, and one of the county's most highly respected citizens.

JOHN W. TURNIPSEED (dealer in agriculture and farming implements, and also stock dealer, Mexico, Indiana,) is a native of Stark Countv, Indiana, and was born April 13, 1851. His parents, George and Sarah (Veal) Turnipseed, were natives of Ohio and New Jersey, respectively. He was married in Cass Count}-, Indiana, October 14, 1872, to Josephine, daughter of Samuel and Nancy (Graft) Dillman. She was born in Cass County, Indiana, November 19, 185 1. In the spring of 1873, Mr. Turnipseed, our subject, settled upon land in Jefferson Township, this county, where he engaged in farming until the fall of 1877, when he moved to Mexico, Indiana, where he engaged in the butchering business for about one vear, after which he engaged in buving stock for Mr. S. E. Skinner, and about one year later he entered a partnership w ith Mr. Skinner in stock business, which they continued together until Skinner's death, in November, 1884. He then devoted his attention to stock business by himself, which he has carried on quite extensivelv since. In the fall of 1886 he took Mr. A. Crook in as a partner, and the\ are now doing business together. Mr. Turnipseed is an intelligent and enterprising man, and is highly esteemed bv all who know him. He owns 109 acres of land in Sections 19 and 30, Jefferson Township: also fine propertv at Mexico. Indiana. Mr. Turnipseed and wife are members of the Baptist Church.

THOMAS WHITCRAFT (foreman of the Mexico Manufacturing Companv). was born in Hocking Countv, Ohio. April 26, 1S47. His parents - ^John H. and Amy R. (Brown) Whitcraft - were also both natives of Hocking Countv, Ohio, and were born as follows: The father in the year 182 1 and the mother in the year 1824. They were married in Hocking County, Ohio, where the father died in the year 1856. The mother subsequentlv married Lewis Smvers, and moved with him to Wabash County, Indiana, in 1857, where she still resides. She is the mother of fourteen children, viz: Thomas, Margaret, Jacob L.,

Biographical Sketciiks. 7Ii

William C, Luther B., Elizabeth A., (by Mr. Whitcraft), and Mary, Elmira, George W., John W., Luther B., Amy R., Ida and an infant daughter which died young and not named (by- Mr. Smyers). Thomas, our subject, moved with his parents to Wabash County, Indiana, in 1857, and in 1871 began the cabinet trade at South Wabash, Ind., which he completed and has engaged in the same principally since. He was married at South Wabash, Indiana, November 9, 1875, to Anna M., daughter of Mark and Esther (Jenkins) Jones. She was born in Wabash Countv, Indiana, December 22, 1854. In 1877, Mr. Whitcraft, our subject, moved to Mexico, Indiana, and began work as an emplove in the Mexico Manufacturing Factory, which he has since continued. In Ma}', 1884, he was promoted to foreman of the factory, which capacity he now fills. He has had born to him four children, viz: Vesta J., born October 21, 1876; Vermon H., born July, 12, 1878; Lenora, born March 10, 1880, and Edwinna, born Februai-}' 10, 1882. Mr. Whitcraft is a member of the Masonic Order, and he and wife are members of the M. E. Church. He is a wide-awake and enterprising young man, and is much esteemed by all who know him.

JOHN N. WOOLLEY, one of the pioneers of this county and one among the earl}- settlers of Richland Township, was born in Hamilton County, Ohio, September 18, 1820. He was the second son born to Amos and Anna (Ellis) Woolley, both natives of New Jersey, of Welsh descent. When John was about six \ears old he accompanied his parents to Philadelphia, Penn., but six years later, or in 1832, they returned to Ohio, and this time located in Warren County. His father located in Palmyra (now Mason), where he worked at his trade, which was that of wagonmaker. Very early in life, John learned the trade also, with his father, at which he has worked chiefly all his life. On the nth day of April, 1844, he was married to Alice E,. Warwick, a native of Warren County, Ohio, born of English and Scotch descent, April 28, 1826. She was the daughter of Jacob and Leah (Parker) Warwick, both natives of Pennsylvania. In 1847, Mr. and Mrs. Woolley came to this count}- and located in the woods of Richland Township. There our subject worked at his trade until about 1873, when he located in Denver. Mr. and Mrs. Woolley have had ten children. They are Emily E., born March 18, 1845, died October I, 1S60; Mary J., born December 12, 1846; Laura A., born October 29, 1847; Joseph C, born October 2, 1850, died January 15, 1851; Benjamin K., born July 31, 1855, died August 4, 1858; Alice E., born October 31, 1857: George L., born November 15, 1859; Anna E., born March 2, 1862; Alfred W., born December 8, 1864; and Amos E., born September 17, 1867. Mrs. Woolley is a member of the Christian Church. In politics, Mr. Woolley is a Repub- lican. He has held the office of Justice of the Peace four years. He is an honest, upright man, and one of the countj-'s most highljrespected citizens.