Noble County, Indiana - The whole text, 1902 (part 15 of 21)

"From 1883 to 1886 Mr. Croft, during the time of his connection with the Little & Croft Lumber Company, at Evansville, had a hardwood yard in Chicago. He is a close reader of the Northwestern Lumberman, particularly of the 'Realm of the Retailer,' and last spring he built one of Cobb's double sheils, with a two-story center, a twenty-foot driveway and eighteen-foot wing. Mr. Croft says too much praise can not be given to the 'Realm of the Retailer' and its practical suggestions and practical plans, the latter of which work out just as well on the ground as they do on paper."

It will thus be seen that Mr. "Croft is not unknown in the business world; that his enterprise has brought him in close contact with a class of business men whose interests are spread over a large area, their manufactured product reaching all sections of the country, the raw material of which is supplied by such industries as Mr. Croft is now the head of in Albion. The importance of hardwood lumber is yearly increasing, and unless means are used to preserve a young growth of timber, always valuable and more so now by reason of its scarcity, the time will come when importations will increase in order to meet the requirements of trade. Mr. Croft's mills are known as the Paragon Roller Mills. This mill is always crowded with business, being run to its full capacity, turning out daily from seventy-five to one hundred barrels, the product being barely sufficient to meet the demand. Mr. Croft also has a. planing mill in connection, and has been activelv

Mr. Croft was married in Noble township in 1870, leading to the altar Miss Lucy E. Thomas, a daughter of Rev. Zachariah and Elizabeth S. (Bruce) Thomas. Mrs. Croft was reared and educated in Albion, although a native of Ohio, her parents removing to Indiana when she was a child. Herself and husband are both of the Baptist faith, in which her father is a minister. Politically Mr. Croft is a Democrat, and exercises the elective franchise without entering into the turmoil of discussion, believing his time can be more profitably employed in attending to the large business of which he is the head. Socially himself and wife stand among the prominent people of Albion, and they are noted for their hospitable and social qualities.

Of Albion, Inch, is a son of Charles and Hannah (Compton) Lemmon, and was born Sqitember 18, 1829, in Varick township, Seneca count}-, N. Y. His father was a native of Maryland and his mother of New Jersey. They were married in Varick township and settled there on a farm, where they remained until 1837, when they moved to Seneca county, Ohio, where they remained until death.

Stansbury W. Lemmon attended the public schools of Attica, Ohio, until eighteen years of age, when he began the study of medicine with Dr. B. N. Freeman, of Attica, continued with him for three years, and afterward attended three courses of lectures at Cleveland, Ohio. He began the practice of medicine at Attica, and there continued until 1855. He next located at Toledo, Ohio, where he practiced one year, and in 1856 he located at Albion, Noble county. Ind., and has here been in constant practice ever since. In 1871 and 1872 he attended a full course of lectures at Rush Medical College. He is now a member of the American Medical Society and also of the Noble County Medical Society.

To his present accomplished wife the Doctor was married September 1, 1859. She was born January 4, 1835, and is a daughter of Ransom F. Wheeler, of Albion, Intl. To this union have been burn three children, namely: Harriet, now married to Frank D. Hall, an accomplished and successful druggist of Newark, Ohio ; Antto my E., a resident and successful business man of Albion, and married to Miss Emma Baughman, of Albion; Lillian, married to D. L. Baughman, a successful hardware merchant of Albion.

From the time of its organization and for many years after Dr. Lemmon supported the Republican party, but for the last several years has affiliated with the Prohibition party.

The early life of the Doctor was not free from discouragements. By the death of his father in early youth he was, in great measure, thrown upon his own resources, but being blest with a rugged constitution, supplemented by an unusual degree of energy and perseverance, he was, in great measure, enabled to triumph over his early discouragements and to ultimately reach the front rank of his chosen profession.

He is the oldest medical practitioner of Noble county, being here engaged in a constant lucrative practice for over fifty-two years ; and, notwithstanding, in point of age, he has passed the scriptural limit, he stiil devotes his chief attention to the requirements of his profession and in general search for knowledge. Being possessed of financial ability of a high order, he has accumulated a good degree of wealth. He has a well-cultivated mind, and his manners are dignified and free from ostentation. In the evening of life he is reaping the reward of his characteristic industry, energy and careful attention to the minutest details of business. Being situated in his beautiful, spacious and richly furnished home, and surrounded by his interesting family, he and 'his accomplished wife seem to have the promise of many years yet in which to enjoy heir present esthetic surroundings.

Frederick Huber

The subject of this sketch, whose name is well known throughout Elkhart township. Noble county, belongs to that class of Indiana's prominent pioneers whose presence lias proved so beneficial in the development of her agricultural resources and whose labors will ever stand as a monument to glorify and perpetuate their achievements in turning the dense forests and dismal swamps into fertile fields from which has been pro- duced the wealth which has made Indiana great among the sister commonwealths of the nation. Born in Pennsylvania, near the city of Pittsburg, on March 3, 1833, he was but three years old when his parents moved to Allen county, Ohio, and settled on a farm near Lima. Here young Frederick obtained his early education and grew to manhood, and afterward married, February 24, 1857, Miss Mary Stump, who was born in Seneca county, Ohio, July 2^, 1838.

Frederick Huber remained in Allen county, Ohio, until the spring of 1859, when he came to Noble county, Ind., with his wife and one child, and purchased one hundred and twenty acres of wild land in Elkhart township. Here he settled down to the task of making a home for himself and young family. Nearly all the work of clearing off the heavy timber and preparing the rich soil for cultivation was performed by Mr. Huber, and its present excellent and highly cultivated fields, the fine residence and outbuildings are an evidence of what has been accomplished through his well-directed efforts and careful attention to the details necessary to produce good results in any undertaking, but most essentially in the vocation of agriculture. Mr. Huber has added to his original purchase until his farm now contains two hundred and five acres, and the passerby can not fail to have his attention drawn to those evidences of thrift which greet the eye.

Mr. and Mrs. Huber's home has been blessed with seven children, namely : Joseph R., who died in his eighteenth year; Henry, who died March 18, 1890, in his thirty-first year; Jesse, who died when nearly twenty-one years of age; Franklin, who died February [9, 1895, when about thirty-two years of age; Samuel, who died January 12, 1894, at the age of twenty-two years ; Sarah Ann is the wife of Walter Swihart ; Calvin is a farmer in Elkhart township, where he was born June 6, 1866, and was married to Clara E. Swihart, October 2, 1887, she being a native of Noble township, born December 8, 1865, and they are the parents of two children, George Frederick and Mary E. The father of Mrs. Calvin was George T. Swihart and the mother was a Miss Elizabeth Butterbaugh, natives of Ohio, who came to Wabash county, Ind., and subsequently moved to Noble county, prior to the Civil war. The mother died in Elkhart county, October 12, 1896, in her sixtieth year. They were the parents of twelve children, of whom Mrs. Calvin Huber is the sixth in order of birth.

In addition to the loss of five sons, Frederick Huber has been called upon to mourn the loss of his estimable wife, who died in Elkhart township, November 22, 1881. The father of Frederick Huber was Jacob Huber, a native of Germany, and the mother was Barbara Myers, also a native of Germany. They emigrated from Germany in 1833. Both died in Allen county, Ohio, the father at the age of fifty-six years and the mother at seventy-seven. They were the parents of eight children, Frederick, the subject, being the seventh in order of birth.

Mr. Huber has remained single since the death 1 f his wife, and now in his declining years can look back upon a well-spent life, surrounded by his children and grandchildren, in whose future he feels that keen interest which one ever feels in the development of those lives which will carry to future ages the name he has so honorably borne and which is held by a numerous circle

John Latimer

A well-to-do farmer of Noble county, Ind., is a whole-souled, genial gentleman who has won the friendship of all with whom he has been associated. He was born in Mifflin township, Ashland county, Ohio, December 4, 1844. and is a son of William and Sarah N. Latimer. His father was a native of Delaware and his mother of Virginia. The mother died m Ashland county, Ohio, at the age of sixty-four years, but the venerable father is yet living at an advanced age. Their family consisted of nine children.

John Latimer was reared and educated in Ashland count}-, where he remained until his twenty-eighth year, when he was married and moved to Bates county. Mo., reaching there in the latter part of 1X72. This state did not meet his expectations and after a residence there of ten months he once more set his face eastward, locating in Churubusco, Whitley county, Ind. Here, thinking to better his fortunes, he engaged in the livery business for about two years and also did considerable teaming, but the surroundings and associations were very much to his dislike and he disposed of his business and left the count\- to' seek a more congenial location. Reaching Noble county, the richness and fertility of the soil appealed to his judgment and he stopped in Green township for six years, carrying on the pursuits of husbandry. He then settled in Noble township, where he owns one hundred and thirtyfive acres and where his successful farming

On December 17, 1X72, in Ashland county, Ohio, was solemnized the marriage of John Latimer and Miss Martha Ward, to whom a family of three children have been born, viz : Minnie E., wife of Oliver Eger ; William W. ; and Sarah J. Mrs. Latimer is an amiable lady, whose enthusiasm in whatever cause she espouses is the signal of success. She was born in Richland county, Ohio, October 23, 1853, and is one of five children born to Jacob and Hannah (Copeland) Ward. Her father was from Pennsylvania ami her mother from that state also. They both died in Richland county, aged sixty-five and sixtysix years respectively.

Newton La Rick

Among the names which are indelibly written on the pages of Noble county's history none occupy a more conspicuous place than that of Newton Rarick, who has been closely identified with the agricultural interests of Indiana since the year 1861, when he came here as a young man and cast in his lot with that of the enterprising citizens who have contributed so nobly to the upbuilding and growth of Noble county. Mr. Rarick is a native of Ohio, having been ushered into existence in Darke county, about sixty-five years ago.

dent of Darke county, Ohio, and it was there he was married to Miss Sarah Moore. In 1 84 1 he came to Indiana, locating in Kosciusko county, where he took up canal land and engaged in general farming until 1880. This marriage was blessed with six children, Eliza, Jasper, Newton, Jeanett, Daniel and Jacob. The wife dying in 1876, Mr. Rarick discontinued farming in 1880 and made his home with his children until his second marriage, to Mrs. C. Souers, by whom he had one child, Andrew A.

Newton Rarick received his primary education in the public schools of Kosciusko and Noble counties, later entering the school at Wolcottville, where he' acquired a sufficient knowledge of the English language to enable him to become a teacher. He taught eight or ten terms and was eminently successful. He continued to reside with his father until his own marriage, December 28, 1859, to Miss Elizabeth Baker, a daughter of Samuel Baker, whose death occurred in 1864. Soon after his marriage he moved to Nohle county, Ind., and engaged in farming, while he continued teaching during the winter months. In 1881 he moved to his present farm, which consists of two hundred and seventy acres, forty of which lie in the adjoining county of Kosciusko. Mr. Rarick is a shrewd business man and uses his intelligence in carrying on his farming operations, his theories proving of a most practical nature. He has a fine farm, which is beautified with the addition of substantial buildings and other improvements, the very appearance of the premises telling of the skillful farmer.

Mr. Rarick is the father of seven children, viz: Marion A., who was born in 1861 and married Miss Margaret Tarpning, by whom he has two children, one that died in infancy and Mabel ; Mary J., born in 1863, who became the wife of Joseph Kitson, by whom she has one child, Elbertine, and later the wife of Jacob Sheets, by whom she has two children, Ava and Jacob; Ida, born in 1865, married Bruce E. Kirkland and has one child, Mamie; Vassie E., born in 1869; Elva, born in 1874; Leona, born in 1877, and the wife of John Greene. They have one child, Caryl. Pearl, born in 1880, is the wife of Charles Hussey. She has one son, Luther. The family of Mr. Rarick are devout Christians and members of the "Church of God." Mr. Rarick is a Republican.

William H. Baker

Well-known dealer in agricultural implements and a practical farmer of York township. Noble county, Ind., was born in Perry township, August 30. 1853, a son of the late John Baker, a native of Virginia, but who was reared in Pennsylvania. John Baker, mentioned above, married Abigail Bloomer, who was a native of Ohio, in which state their marriage took place, which resulted in the birth of four sons and one daughter. Mr. Baker died in Noble county, Ind., in 1879, when he was seventy-three years old, having been preceded to the better land by his faithful helpmate the' previous May, at the age of sixty-six years. To their union there were born four sons and one daughter, of whom the subject of this sketch was the fourth child in the order of birth.

to York township and settled on a farm in sectii in 3 1 . where lie was reared to manhood and where he still retains his residence. Here he was educated in the common schools, which he attended during the winters and assisted in the work on the home farm during the summers until his father's death, after which bereavement he continued the pursuit of agriculture on his own account until 1898, when he engaged in thu implement business, in which he has become quite popular, and the past year was placed on salary for the McCormick Harvesting Machine Company, of Chicago.

Mr. Baker is a Republican in politics and takes a decided interest in local affairs. Fraternally he' is a Royal Arch Mason and a Knight of Pythias. Socially he and family hold a high position in the esteem of their neighbors, and as an agriculturist is classed among the best and most prosperous in York township. His farm comprises one hundred and fifty-eight acres in section 32, which is a model of neatness, on which he nas erected a handsome dwelling ami o nnmodious barns and other necessary outbuildings. His moral influence in the township is marked and especially strong, and he is a pillar in the social fabric.

Sylvester Blackman

The true glory of a nation arises from its fortunate constitution of citizens who pride themselves on the cultivation of its soil and the development of its other natural resources, and who possesses the ability to afterward defend the results of their labor and enterprise from ruthless invasion by

Elisha Blackmail, father of the subject proper of the sketch, was born in Luzerne, Penn., August 30, 1801, was reared a farmer but later took to blacksmithing, and on December 22, 1828, was married in Ohio to .Miss Amy Rollins, who was born in Miami county, that state, September 2, 1808. In 1836 the couple removed from Ohio to Wolf Lake, Noble county. Ind., but soon afterward settled on a farm in York township, where the mother passed away May 16, i860, and the father on the 29th day of February, 1872. These parents had born unto them the somewhat numerous family of thirteen children, of whom Sylvester was the eighth in order of birth.

Sylvester Blackmail had his nativity in York township, Noble county, Ind., October 6, 1842, and rendered efficient aid in clearing up and cultivating the home farm, gaining brawn and physical vigor with each day's labor, and in the meanwhile pabulum for his mental growth in the district school, thus laying the foundation for that career of usefulness which later led to fame and fortune. He had but little more than reached his majority when the internecine struggle brought on by the hot-headed pro-slavery propagandists of the south had become an incontrovertible as well as a disastrously tragic fact for themselves, and so aroused his patriotism that he enlisted in Company B, Twelfth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, on December 2^, 1863. and valiantly served tv/enty months, or until the close of the war. Among the severest of the engagements in which he was called upon to take part during his term of active service were those of Resaca, Pumpkinvine Creek and Atlanta. He received an honorable discharge at Louisville, Ky., Jul\' 15, 1865, and then returned to his home in York township to< receive the plaudits of his fellow-citizens and to reengage in his vocation of farming.

This noble pursuit has keen Mr. Blackman's life-work and study, and it is one in which he has attained pre-eminence. 'With a careful observation of the workings and processes of nature, he has brought to his aid the suggestions of science, and his farm of two hundred and seventy-seven acres has but few equals and no superiors in York township. It 's well improved with firstclass buildings, his dwelling being especially elegant and cozy. Every detail in the cultivation of this farm evidences consummate skill and good management, and the resulting crops are manifestly satisfactory.

Mr. Blackmail was united in marriage in Noble county, October 29, 1867, with Miss Mary Jane Burns, a daughter of James and Ellen (Williams) Burns, who was born in Branch county, Mich., September 1. 1847. Mr. and Mrs. Burns came from Michigan to Noble county, Ind., about 1855 or 1856, and here Mr. Burns passed away in the spring of 1864, a respected and reputable citizen. To the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Blackman have been born seven children, namely: Ella, who is the wife of Emmet Black: Joseph E., Frank E., William, Gertrude. Tbaddeus and Anna E., all of whom have been excellently and well educated.

Mr. Blackman takes a commendable interest in the progress of his township and the pn sperity oi his fellow-citizens, as well as in the proper management of local affairs generally. He contributes freely to <he maintenance of such public bodies as churches, schools and charities that come within the reach of his knowledge and means, and never permits the needy to depart from his door without substantial assistance. He is a member O'f the Masonic fraternity and of the Knights of Pythias, and likewise of Worden Post, No. 205, G. A. R. He and wife are devoted members of the Sparta Christian church, to the teachings of which they manifest a constant and conscientious adherence in their daily walk through life. Mr. Blackman is a trustee of the conference.

John L. Henry

The thriving little town of A villa, in Noble count}-, includes among its leading business men and prominent citizens John I.. Henry, who since 1881 has been actively identified with its industrial interests. He is a native of Wood county, W. Va., and dates his birth from the 27th day of July, 1861, his father being Gabriel S. Henry, who was born in Jefferson county, Ohio, November 5. 1 83 1. His mother, Sophia (McKenzie) Henry, also a native of Ohio, was born August 4, 1831, and with her husband came to Noble county, Ind..- in November, 1865, settling in \llen township, where both continued to reside until 1892, since which time they have been living in retirement. Gabriel and Sophia Henry reared a family of eight children, the oldest being Martha J., now the wife of Henry Gettle, of Altona, Ind.; fames M., the second child, is a resi- dent of the city of Fort Wayne; Margaret C.j who died in Avilla March 14, 1900, was the wife of J. E. Rehrer; Elizabeth, wife of Aaron C. Shambaugh, lives on a farm in Green township, Noble county; John L., the subject of this article, is the next in order of birth; Robert A. is a well-known citizen of Albion; Ida B. became the wife of H. L. Askew, of Fort Wayne; and the youngest, William F., was accidentally killed in Fort Wayne at the age of seventeen.

Air. Henry is public spirited in all the term implies and left the impress of his strong and vigorous personality indelibly stamped upon the community where so many years of his life were passed. He is a good man and just and belongs to the large and eminently respected class who by deeds rather than words do so much to advance the interest of their neighbors and whose influence is ever exerted in behalf of correct living and a high order of citizenship.

John L. Henry was brought by his parents to Noble county, Ind., in 1865, and grew to maturity in Allen township, in the district schools of which section he received his preliminary educational training. He also pursued his studies for some time in the graded schools of Kendallville and became well informed on the branches constituting the curriculum. On leaving school in 1880 he engaged with his father in the furniture and undertaking business in Avilla, which continued for one year ; he then followed his trade as carpenter until 1888 and then served as postmaster until July, 1893, in November of which year he purchased the father's furniture and undertaking business. Since taking control Mr. Henry has greatly enlarged the capacity of his establishment, and from a modest beginning the business has steadily grown until the house is now one of the largest and most successful enterprises of the town. He carries a large and complete stock of all articles of furniture demanded by the trade, while the undertaking department is well equipped with all appliances essential to successful work in this important business. He is thoroughly familiar with all details of funeral and burial service, and by devoted attention to the afflicted in tin's time of greatest sorrow has endeared himself to those waited upon, besides winning the ci mfidence and esteem of the public in general.

Mr. Henry possesses a pleasing personality and by courteous treatment of his patrons has succeeded in building up an extensive and lucrative business. His popularity is not confined to his town or immediate neighborhood, but throughout a large part of the county where he has had business, relations with the people he is spoken of in the highest terms of praise. As a business man he is widely and favorably known as possessing sound judgment, energy, prudence and integrity. Honorable and upright in all of his dealings, his career throughout has been most creditable and he is now firmly established as a business man. enjoying in a marked degree the confidence of all with whom he comes in contract.

John L. Henry has long taken an active interest in matters political, clinging tenaciously to the tenets of the Republican party and ever ready to give an intelligent reason for his opinions and convictions. During the adminstration of President Harrison he served as postmaster at Avilla. filling the office four years and acquitting himself in a manner highly satisfactory to the public. He usually represents his town in the various conventions, and as a party worker has done yeoman service, contributing much to the success of the ticket in many campaigns. His religious belief is embodied in the creed of the Methodist Episcopal church, having for many years been an earnest and active member of that large and aggressive body.

Mr. Henry was married, December 24, 1882, to Miss Emma G. Haines, daughter of Robert S. and Permelia (Baum) Haines, a sketch of whose family appears elsewhere in these pages. Mrs. Henry's birth took place August 31, 1863. in the town of Avilla and she has presented her husband with two children - Perma, who died at the age of four and a half years, and Marjorie A.

Fraternally Mr. Henry belongs to Lodge No. 686, I. O. O. F., at Avilla ; Dekalb Encampment, No. 169, at Garrett, Ind., and Capitol Canton, No. 19, at Indianapolis. He is an enthusiastic Odd Fellow and endeavors to exemplify the principles of the noble order in his daily life. In addition to the above he is a member of the Order of Ben Hur and was honored by being elected the first chief of Avilla Court, No. 44.

In every relation of life Mr. Henry has been directed and controlled by high moral purposes and his influence has invariably been upon the right side of every great question. Conscientious in the discharge of every duty, be has won an abiding place in the hearts of his numerous freinds and neighbors and no one is more highly respected for sterling qualities of manhood. Financially he has met with flattering success, his welldirected efforts in the line of business having resulted in a liberal competence which he now enjoys. A warm-hearted, affable gentleman, pleasing in person and address, Mr. Henry is deservedly respected wherever known and his name is entitled to especial mention with Noble county's representative men.

Henry W. Kirkpatrick

Eleemosynary institutions all over the world are recognized as essentially necessary to the economic administration of civil government and the conservation of the best conditions of any people, and Noble count}-, Ind., is by no means behind her sister counties of the state in sustaining at least one of the best systems of public charity known to man, as is made manifest by the poor-farm situated in York township. Henry W. Kirkpatrick, whose name opens this sketch and who was a faithful and valiant soldier of the war to crush the rebellion against the integrity of the American Union, is the present superintendent of the Noble county poor- farm ; and that he is fully competent for the duties of the position he holds is proven sufficiently well by the fact that he is now serving his seventh year. Mr. Kirkpatrick is a native of Ohio, and was born on a farm in Knox count}-, September 16, 1840. Alexander Kirkpatrick, his father, was born in Washington county, Penn., August 25, 1803, married Hannah Ross, also a native of Washington countv, Penn., born in 1802, but both were residents of Ohio at the time of marriage. They remained in the Buckeye state until 1861, when they came to Noble county, Ind., settled in Jefferson township and there passed the remainder of their lives, the father dying in 1881 and the mother in January, 1872. Their family comprises four children, two sons and two daughters, of whom Henry W. is the youngest.

When Henry W. Kirkpatrick was a child of five years of age the family removed from Knox to Delaware county, Ohio, where the subject was employed in farm labor until he was twenty years old. In i860 he came to Noble county, Ind., and here made his home with his now brother-in-law, John Easterday, until he enlisted, in August, 1862, in Company E, One Hundredth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, in which he served about seven months, when he was discharged on account of disability.

On his return from the army Mr. Kirkpatrick located on a farm in Jefferson township and engaged in farming until about the year 1890, when he removed to a small farm near Albion, on which he lived until March, 1895, when he was appointed superintendent of the Noble county poor-farm by the county commissioners, and re-appointed in 1901, his urbane disposition and naturally benevolent tendencies eminently fitting him for this responsible position.

Mr. Kirkpatrick was joined in marriage in Jefferson township, December 20, 1865, with Miss Eva C. Easterday, a daughter of George and Anna M. (Somerlot) Easterday, the former of whom was born in Holmes county, Ohio, in 1800, and the latter in Pennsylvania in 1797. Mr. and Mrs. Easterday came to Noble county, Ind., in 1853 and settled in Jefferson township, where Mrs. Easterday died, May 2, 1873, and Mr. Easterday July 28, 1880. They were the parents of seven sons and three daughters, of whom Mrs. Kirkpatrick was the ninth child in order of birth, which took place in Knox county, Ohio, February 2j, 1841. To Mr. and Mrs. Kirkpatrick have been burn two children: Elbert J. and Anna E., the latter being now the wife of Justin Easter. In civic affairs Mr. Kirkpatrick is as public spirited as he was patriotic when the clamor of war stirred men's souls to unwonted activity. His influence is widespread and is always exercised for the welfare of his fellow citizens of every condition in life, while sycophancy is foreign to his nature. His unvarying courtesy wins for him warm-hearted and innumerable friends with no apparent effort on his own part, friendships for him forming spontaneously.

In politics a Republican, he has conscientiously performed his duty in his adherence to that party, and has acted from conviction but never for purposes of selfaggrandizement. In religion he is equally sincere, and is a faithful member of the Evangelical Lutheran church, of which his wife is also a communicant. Fraternally he is a member of Worden Post, No. 205, G. A. R., and of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Socially, although his immediate family is but a small one, it enjoys the heartfelt respect of all who have the pleasure of its acquaintance.

Platt B. Bassett

If almost all the years usually allotted to man as his span of life be passed in one neighborhood, it may well be inferred that he has witnessed the many and rapid changes that evolye from the past to the present, especially when that neighborhood is developed from a dire wilderness into a blooming region of culture, both in physical and mural aspects. The adventurous perambulator of the labyrinth of forests that overspread the present fair land of Noble county, Inch, more than half a century ago, will be recalled with awe intermingled with. astonished admiration at the magical change; yet such has been the experience of the gentleman whose name stands at the opening of this biographical notice.

Piatt B. Bassett, a native of Sullivan county, N. Y., was born April 6, 1834, and was but two years of age when brought to the wilds of Indiana by his parents, Hiram F. and Lucia (Barnum) Bassett. Hiram F., the father, was in all probability born in Vermont, April 2, 1807, and the mother in Sullivan county, N. Y., in 1813. In 1836 these parents came to Indiana with their son, Piatt B. Isabella, the second child, was born March 4, 1840, and became the wife of Joseph Vermilyea, but died in 1869. On reaching the Hoosier state Hiram F. Bassett settled on the farm in York township. Noble county, now owned by his son, Piatt B., but early in the sixties removed to Albion, where the father died, August 25, 1881, having lived in comfortable and respected retirement from the. cares of farm life until that date. His devoted wife and helpmate was called away from earthly trouble April 26, 1892, and both died as they had lived - sincere Christians.

Piatt B. Bassett was reared cm the farm on which he still lives in York township, was early inured to the hardships of backwoods life, and can, of course, recall to memory many of the early struggles incident to pioneers, of which his life was not entirely devoid in his younger days. As the exuberant spirits of boyhood and early manhood will ever find vent in joyous exhilaration over some sort of exercise that may be designated as sport, as he advanced in years and realized the seriousness of a truly manly existence, he duly considered the exigencies of the situation and took the most effective steps toward conforming to them. In addition to' clearing up the farm and tilling the soil he devoted much care to the breeding of live stock, and now possesses some of the finest herds and flocks in the township. His estate of three hundred and twenty acres he has improved with a handsome brick dwelling and some of the best and most conveniently arranged outbuildings to be met with in his part of the country; and all the environs are indicative of good judgment, taste and prosperity. His capabilities as an agriculturist are universally recognized, and his example is one that is wisely and profitably emulated by many of his neighbors.

The happy marriage of Mr. Bassett was celebrated in Jefferson township, Noble county, April 24, 1856, with Miss Mary A. Bucher, a daughter of David and Catherine ( Myers ) Bucher, the former of whom was born in Hanover, Penn., in 1814, and the latter in Germany in 1814. About the year 1846 these parents came from the Keystone state to' the more fertile and prolific state of Indiana and settled in Jefferson township, Noble county, where they passed the remainder of their earthly existence, the father dying January 9, 1856, at the comparatively early age of forty-four years, and the mother on July 9, 1870. when nearly fiftysix years old. These parents had a family of four children, viz: Mary A.. Eliza C,

Emeline and Edward D. Of these Mary A., now Mrs. Bassett, was born in Canton, Ohii\ December 18, 1837, and was between ten arid twelve years old when her parents settled in Nolle count}-. Ind. Mrs. Bassett has presented her husband with one greai pledge of her affection in the person of a daughter, Florence E., born March 26, 1858, who is now the wife of Thomas E. Casey, and is a lady of many estimable qualities which tended to brighten the home of her parents and make glad the home of herself and husband.

Mr. Bassett is a gentleman who takes quite an active interest in local affairs and acts with the Republican party. He is broad minded and public spirited ; is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and, with his wife, of the Presbyterian church. The family have always enjoyed the esteem of the neighborhood and are honored as among the most desirable of citizens.

Jonathan W. Cleland

Among the many gallant and brave soldiers who volunteered from the state of Indiana to save the American Union from disruption by the south in the blood-thirsty rebellion of 1861-65 was the gentleman whose name stands at the head of this biographical memoir, but is now one of the most respected and thrifty agriculturists of York township. Noble county, Ind. Although he is of southern extraction, like many others whose parents came from that section of the country, he was possessed of true patriotism, and, being free from the bulldozing demagoguism of the so-called fire-eaters of his paternal section at the time of the sanguinary conflict, be was but too glad to avail himself of the opportunity to volunteer his services in the cause of the Union when the proper time arrived to manifest his love of liberty and of the Union.

Jonathan \Y. Cleland was born in Ohio, January 28, 1832. a son of Martin and Sarah (Vanasdalle) Cleland, the former of whom was a native of Virginia and the' latter of New England. In 1835 tne Cleland family came from the Buckeye state to Indiana and first sought a home in Elkhart county, but later removed to Whitley county, where the parents passed the remainder of their lives, dying in 18 19. or thereabout, Jonathan \Y. being then about thirteen years old. Soon after his bereavement Jonathan W. came to Green township. Noble county, and was here employed in farming until January 4, 1864, when he enlisted in Company B, Twelfth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and did good and valiant service until the rebellion was subdued, when Mr. Cleland was honorably discharged. On returning from the war Mr. Cleland settled in York township. Noble county, taking possession of the farm on which he still lives, and which he had purchased in 1861. On this farm of two hundred and twenty acres he has erected one of the neatest and coziest dwellings in York township. He has also improved his place with substantial farm buildings that are the pride of the neighborhood, and the careful cultivation of the soil shows the consummate knowledge of the practical operation of agricultural pursuits possessed by Mr. Cleland.

bride and helpmate Miss Alcy Gray, who was born in Ohio, May 14, 1832, and this happy union has been graced with ten children, six of wlum are still living and. are named as follows: William G., Nathan S., Samuel J.,. Oliver P., Ruth A., who is the wife of Jacob Busz ; and John C. Those deceased were christened and died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Cleland have lived strictly upright lives and have thus gained the respect of their neighbors and won from many of them the warmest sentiments of personal friendship. The early defense of his native country and his excellent management of his affairs since peace finally spread her mantle over the fair face of the land and enabled him to follow his vocation in safety and with intelligent industry, have been the means of exciting in the rising genereation a spirit of emulation and imitation that must redound in the future welfare of the township and the ultimate advancement of public improvements within all its bounds. Few men are more liberal in their views or more public spirited in their acts than Jonathan \V. Cleland, of York township.

Joseph Granville Steel

Some of the best and most useful members of every refined and well-ordered civil society of mankind have sprung from the ranks of the followers of the noblest of all callings, the tillers of the soil, and one of such is he whose name stands at the head of this biographical memoir, and also foremost among the citizens of York township, Noble county, Ind., of which township he is an ex-trustee.

Joseph G. Steel is a native of the Buckeye state and was born near Nenia, Greene county, January 24, 1846, and maternally of Revolutionary descent. His father, Ebenezer Steel, also a native of the same county and state, was born in 1818, and his death took place in the state of Missouri when he was sixty-five years of age. Ebenezer married Miss Catherine Shuey, a lady of refinement as well as of patriotic descent, who was born in Warren county, Ohio, in 1 81 5. To the union of Ebenezer and Catherine Steel were born a family of nine children, eight sons and one daughter, of which family the subject proper of this sketch is the third child in order of birth.

Mr. Steel, of this sketch, was reared on the home farm in Greene county, Ohio, and in that county was also' educated in the common schools of his district. Having absorbed all the knowledge the pedogogues of his day and township were capable of imparting, he devoted himself industriously to his vocation of farming on the home place until the time came for him to embark in the same calling on his personal account in his native township, which he continued to do until February, 1875, when he came to Noble county, Ind., and settled on the farm he continues to occupy, and which comprises three hundred acres of fertile land. This property he has improved with one of the finest farm residences in York township and with substantial and commodious barns and other outbuildings of the most modern construction, supplied and fitted with all manner of conveniences. His skill as an agriculturist has made him famous throughout his township and county, and has resulted in the production of plenteous crops and most satisfactory financial returns, while his ma- lure judgment and experience have been of profitable advantage to many of his neighbors, who have availed themselves of his example in conducting agricultural operations actually verified and established by custom, as well as by experimental tests of new methods. His reward has been commensurate with his skill and industrious perseverance, and he annually counts up an income from this source that is satisfactory in the extreme.

In his social and political relations Air, Steel takes, or rather there is thrust upon him. a leading and influential part. Naturally observant of men and events, he is not slow to perceive the needs of a community, nor is the community slow to take advantage of his acumen. He is broad minded, liberal and public spirited, and rejoices in aiding with his influence as well as his finances all projects that promise a promotion of trie public welfare. He is an ardent friend of the public schools and favors the employment of the most competent teachers that the school fund will permit or justify. He freely aids and encourages the moral advancement of society, contributing liberally to the erection of church edifices and otherwise promoting or assisting esthetical progress.

The happiness of Air. Steel was consummated December 15, 1874, by his marriage in York township with Miss Salome Palmer, a daughter of the late Henry Palmer. Mrs. Steel was born in Tuscarawas county, ( >hio, June 14, 1856, but for many years has lived in York township, this county. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Steel has been crowned by the birth of two children, of whom the elder. Ada L., is the wife of Forrest Moore, Stacy S. Steel being the younger.

In politics Air. Steel is a Republican, which party honored him by electing him trustee of York township in 1894, which office he satisfactorily filled for five years. Fraternally he has been a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows since 1872; socially he and family, as may well be inferred, enjoy a very high position.

John W. Black

This well-known and popular official of York township. Noble county. Ind., is a native of Ohio and was born on a farm in Sugar Creek township, Stark county, ( )etober 6, 1837. His parents, John A. and Alice (Palmer) Black, were natives of England, who both died in Stark county, Ohio, leaving a family of four sons and four daughters, of whom the subject of this sketch was the oldest. He was reared to manhood in his native state and continued his residence there until 1867, when he came to Noble county with his wife and three children and settled in York township, where he has since continued agricultural pursuits.

Inheriting. the thrift and the tasteful habits of farming for which the rural population of his father's native land are justly famous, John W. Black has made agriculture his life pursuit, as intended by his venerated father, and from his native -late lie transferred his residence to Indiana. In the fall of 1884 he settled on the one-hundredand-fifty-six-acre tract he now owns on section 27, in York township. Noble county, which he has greatly beautified and im- proved with admirable taste, and which, by superior methods of cultivation, he has made one iif the most productive and profitable in the township.

Mr. Black was united in marriage in Wayne county, Ohio, October 5, i860, with .Miss Anna M. Tyler, who was born in Summit county, Ohio, in July, 1842, and died in York township, Noble county, April 26, 1891, the mother < f twelve children, of whom seven are still living, to-wit : John Y\\, Jr., Emmit, Charles, Calvin, Rollin, Jennie M. and Morris. The departed five were called away in infancy.

In his political convictions' Mr. Black is a Republican, and has been honored by his party by election to the office of township assessor, in which capacity he served five years most faithfully and impartially; has also been twice elected a member of the county board of supervisors from York township, in which office he also gave the most satisfactory attention to the needs of the people of his township.

Although not a communicant with any church. Mr. Black takes a decided interest in the Presbyterian congregation of York township, and is by no means a niggard in contributing from his means to its support. His walk through life is perfectly upright, and he never swerves from his convictions when he once makes up his mind that they are founded upon truth, justice, good will and charity.

James C. Seaburg

being to produce and that of the other to destroy, are at times united in the same person, and this is especially the case when a nation's peace and property are threatened by the invasion of large bodies of foemen, too formidable to be encountered and repulsed by the regular or standing army of a peacefully inclined people ; and this has been the experience of Mr. Seaburg, the subject of this biography.

James C. Seaburg, now a highly respected agriculturist of York township, Noble count}*, was born on a farm in Sandy township, Stark county, Ohio, November 16, 1840, and his parents were Joseph and Catherine (Munn) Seaburg, the former of whom was born in Lancaster county, Penn., and the latter in Scotland. They both departed this life in Stark county, Ohio, the lather in June, 1858, when fifty-eight years old, and the mother in March, 1878, at the age of sixty-three years, leaving a family of five sons and two' daughters, of whom James C. was the second in order of birth.

Mr. Seaburg, of this sketch, was reared to the noble calling of his forefathers, and lived in his native county until nineteen years of age, and in September, i860, came to Indiana. For six months thereafter he lived in Kosciusko county, then came to Noble county, and was employed at farm labor until his enlistment, in June, 1864, when he joined Company G. Thirty-fifth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, in which he served until the close of the war. when he was mustered out at Nashville, Tenn., having been honorably discharged - a discharge he had earned for heroic and faithful service. On his return to Noble county Mr. Seaburg re-engaged in agriculture, and this he successfully followed alone for about two years, when he found it to be prudent and proper, if not absolutely necessary, to unite his advancing fortune with a co-partner, but with one of the gentler sex. Accordingly, on October 13, 1866, he was joined in matrimony with Miss Elizabeth Bowman, who was born in York township, September 13, 1846. and is a daughter of John and Mary i Mason ) Bowman, one of the most respectabel couples of York township. Mr. Bowman passed from earth June 9. 1885, when seventy-five years of age, and Mrs. Bowman was called away while a, resident of Allen county, Ind., in June, 1894, at the advanced age of eighty-two years.

To the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Seaburg have been born three children, viz : Joseph, the only son; Wilda, who is married to George Lare; and Grace, the wife of Ozro Deardorff. Mr. and Mrs.' Seaburg have their home on one hundred and sixty acres of fine productive land, which is cultivated in the most careful manner that modern science provides. Their dwelling is an object of taste and beauty, indicative of the sound practical knowledge of Mr. Seaburg and the refined instincts and education of his wife. The out-buildings on this farm are substantial, commodious and conveniently arranged, and everything- about them denotes care and the careful consideration of means to an end. The seed sown in the soil of this farm, owing to the foresight and experience of Mr. Seaburg, are almost certain of frutification and excellent crops are as a rule the inevitable result.

In politics Mr. Seaburg is a Republican, and in 1890 was selected as one of the enumerators of the United States census for York township. In local affairs he takes an unfailing, an unvarying and an indefatigable interest, holding it to> be the palpable duty of every good citizen to watch over and promote the welfare of his fellow-citizens as far as in his power, and to do everyhing to promote their moral and material happiness. His example is well worthy the imitation by the younger members of his community, and if followed will result in benefit to all. The only fraternal relationship held by Mr. Seaburg is as a member of the Worden Post, No. 20s, G. A. R.

Tames R. Cole

Among the prosperous farmers of York township. Noble county. Ind.. is James R. Cole, who was born in Ashland county, Ohio, May 2. 1844. on the farm of his parents, Benjamin and Martha ( Latimer) Cole, who were respectively natives of Delaware and Ashland counties, Ohio, and who had a family of four sons and three daughters, of which James R. Cole was the fourth in order of birth. Of these parents the mother was the first to pass away, her death having taken place in Ashland county, Ohio, in October, 1861, when forty-eight years old, and that of the father having occurred in Richland county, in the same state, in April, 1874. at the age of sixty years.

James R. Cole was reared on the home farm until twenty years of age. when he enlisted, in the month of February, 1864, in Battery D. First Ohio Light Artillery, in which he served with faithful and devoted attention to his perilous and gallant duty about eighteen months, and was mustered out of the service at Cleveland, Ohio, in July, 1 86^, some three months after the Rebellion had been victorii >usl y crushed out of the semblance of life, receiving an honorable discharge. After the war Mr. Cole returned to Ashland county. Ohio, where he resided until the spring of 1866, when he came to Indiana and located in Green township, Noble county, where he lived for five years; and while residing there was united in marriage, September 22, 1867, with Miss Martha Ray, a daughter of William and Mary Jane (Carr) Ray, the former of whom was a native of West Virginia and the latter of Guernsey county, Ohio. These parents settled in Green township. Noble county, in 1864. and here the father passed away when fifty-four years of age. Of their three children Mrs. Cole is the eldest, and was born in Guernsey county, Ohio, December '3, 1848.

After his marriage Mr. Cole continued his residence in Green township for three years, and then removed to Jefferson township, where he lived for four years, and then to York township and settled on the farm which he still occupies. This farm covers one hundred and thirty acres, and is kept in a high state of cultivation and finely improved in all respects. Here have been born ten children to Mr. and Mrs. Cole, who are all still living to grace and ease the decliningyears of the parents, and who, in order of birth, have been named as follows : Frank W., William R., Elmer E., Prentice B., Floyd R., Mary J., Mattie, Nellie, Kate and Belle. Prentice was a volunteer in the One Hundred and Fifty-seventh Indiana Volunteers, Colonel Studebaker commanding, being assigned to Captain Green's company. The regiment was assigned to duty during the Spanish-American war, and was seven months in the field.

The Cole family are consistent attendants of the Presbyterian church, are liberal in their contributions to the support of the congregation at Albion, and so live as to command the unfeigned respect of all who know them.

John W. Palmer

The maul)- and noble calling of agriculture has been filled in Indiana by many native-born Pennsylvanians or their immediate descendants, and of the latter the Palmer family, of York township, Noble county, may be classed with the most important.

The late Henry Palmer, founder of the Palmer family in the Hoosier state, was born in Westmoreland county, Penn., August 30, 1828, and married Flannah Peffer, who was born in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, March 3, 1835, the marriage having taken place in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, January 11, 1852, and there the couple resided until 1857, when they brought their young family to Noble county, Ind., and settled on a farm in York township, where the father passed the remainder of his life, dying January 8, 1894, and the mother is still living, making her home with our subject. Of the five children born to these parents, John W. is the eldest ; Saloma, the second child, is now the wife of J. G- Steel, of York township; Catherine, the third born, is married to Charles Bell, of Jefferson township; Charles W. died July 14, 1865 ; and Henry O. died August 22, 1879.

John W. Palmer was born in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, September 15, 1854, and was but three years of age when brought to Noble county, a*nd was reared to agricul- ture on his father's farm in York township. On this farm, as a sequel lias proven, there has been developed in the person of the subject of this sketch one of the most truly scientific tillers of the soil that Noble county has ever fostered. He is profound in all things pertaining to this ennobling vocation, and his example has been a godsend to many a farmer of less observant habits or of fewer opportunities; and thus in the prime of life he makes felt his power for good to all about and around him. His farm of two hundred and forty acres is not only well cultivated, fenced, tiled and drained, but is a model of neatness in every respect, presenting to the eye of the admiring passer-by a scene of rural thrift, comfort and beauty that he is loth to withdraw his gaze from. The moral influence of such a view does more in one hour of observation during the period of full frucification than will a volume of abstruse reasoning or speculation on things as they ought to be, theoretically, but which are here in fact and in practical reality.

Air. Palmer received his education in the somewhat primitive schools of his boyhood, but acquired sufficient "book learning" to carry him through the ordinary requirements of rural life and society. His appetite for literature, however, was greatly whetted, and he has ever been the ardent friend of public education, free schools and the training of the young under the most auspicious process. His interest in all local affairs is ardent and extended, and his hand is ever open, in a financial sense, to assist in all projects that he deems of service to the public or adapted to the general welfare.

The marriage of Air. Palmer was celebrated in Perry township. Noble county, November 15, 1 88 1, when he led to the altar Miss Alice C. Flanagan, a daughter of John and Alice (Murphy) Flanagan, the former of whom died May 2, 1894, in Perry township, when nearly eighty years old. Mrs. Palmer is the seventh child of the four sons and five daughters born to the parents, and was born in Perry township February 27, 1857, and was reared in the faith of the Catholic church. She has borne her husband two children. Carlo C and Mabel.

Mr. Palmer is one of the most substantial citizens of York township, and is practically the "architect of his own fortune.'" His example through life is well worthy the imitation of the younger element of York township's residents, as in all probability the_\r wil lnever again find a model so well worthy of emulation.

John R. Young

An enterprising and substantial farmer of Noble county, Ind., was horn in Juniata county, Penn., December 3, 1849, ms Par~ ents being Samuel and Barbara (Rhine) Young, both of whom were Pennsylvanians. They located in Indiana in the fall of 1854, and he soon became a prominent factor among the residents of Noble county, taking an active part in all public movements and acting for one year as deputy auditor of the county. He was also an active worker in the Lutheran church, of which he was an honored member. He passed away when in the prime of manhood, heing but forty-five years .Id. His wife lived to reach her seventy-sixth year.

when he aco impanied his parents to Indiana. The first year they resided in Albion, but later they settled in Noble township, the present home of Mr. Young. He was brought up on the farm and has a natural aptitude for that vocation, which he has always followed, with the exception of two years spent in Churubusco, Whitley county, Ind., where he was engaged in the butcher business. Returning to the home of his youth Mr. Young gave his entire time and attention to husbandry and has achieved a success in that vocation second to none in the county. Industry and unremitting toil soon placed him on the high road to prosperity, and as his earnings were expended in the purchase of land he soon accumulated a valuable property and is the present owner of two hundred and forty acres of the productive land common to Noble townshfp. He has expended his best care in the cultivation and improvement of this property, enclosing the broad fields with substantia] fences, putting out shade and fruit trees and neat, attractive residence and outbuildings and altogether converting it into a charming home.

Mr. Young was married, in this township, on February 9, 1871, to Miss Elmina Ott, a lady whose many fine qualities specially fitted her to become the life companion of a hustling, energetic young man like the subject. She was born January 1, 1851, and is a native of Noble township, where she was educated and grew to womanhood. Her parents were Abraham and Sarah (Morgan) Ott, the latter a native of England. They settled in Noble county about 1840, and it was there the father died in his eightieth year. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Young, narnelv : Gertrude, now Mrs. R. J. Seymour ; Leroy, who died at the age of nine months ; Mabel, wife of Frank Stangland ; Elma; John R., Jr.; and Owen. Mr. Young is a Democrat in his political views, but has never been an as-' pirant for office or taken part in political work except in a quiet way, as his tastes incline him to the pleasures of domestic life rather than to club room and hall. He is a member of the Christian church, in which he is a zealous worker and libera] contributor, and his family are prominent in religious and social circles.

Bayard T. Kuhn

Bayard T. Kuhn, township trustee of York township, Noble county, Ind., a thriving agriculturist, was born on his father's farm in this township at the town once known as Augusta, the former seat of justice of Noble county, on January 9, 1857. Washington A. Kuhn, father of Bayard T., was a native of Pennsylvania, born March 20, 1826, who married Rebecca Pepple, who was born in Ohio, August 20, 1834. They were the parents of six children, namely: Mary, now the wife of C. B. Phillips, of Albion : Elnora, widow of Frank Russell ; Bayard T. ; Charles C. ; Harry ; and Eva, wife of E. S. Hamlin, of Albion.

Bayard T. Kuhn, the third child and the eldest son, was reared in Albion, York township, and received a common-school education. Farming has been his constant vocation through life, with the exception of a year and a half, when he was engaged in the livery business at Albion, and as a farmer he has proved a success. He married in York township, June 23. 1881, Miss Ada S. Rapp, a native of Elkhart, Ind., horn January 26, 1862. The late William G. Rapp, who was her father, was born in Wurtemburg, Germany, and her mother, who bore the maiden name of Sarah Ott, first saw the light of day in Elkhart, Ind., in August, 1837. The father was a member, during the Civil war, of the One Hundredth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and died at Chattanooga, Term., from the effects of a wound sustained in the awful conflict at Missionary Ridge. To the marriage of Air. and Airs. William, G. Rapp there were horn two children : Melvin I. and Ada S. To Mr. and Mrs. Kulm three children came to gladden the hearts of their parents fur a brief period only, as two were called away in infancy, leaving as the sole survivor their daughter, Nellie.

Mr. Kuhn is a Republican in his political affiliations, and in 1900 was elected trustee of Ynrk township, an office he is filling in a most commendatory manner. He has also served as township assessor, in which position he was impartial and just toward all. He lias also been a member of the advisory board. Fraternally he is a Knight of Pythias. The home of Mr. Kuhn, which comprises eighty acres, is a model in every respect, and the family enjoy the esteem of their neighbors to the fullest extent.

A prosperous and progressive agriculturist of Noble county, Ind., was born at Hellers Corners, Allen county, Ind., Februarv 9, 1855, and was the eldest of eight children born to the late Dr. Owen Gandv and hi-- wife, Cynthia Ann (Hire) Gandy. Dr. Owen Gaudy will be remembered by many of our readers as one of the most skillful and successful physicians and surgeons who ever practiced in this part of the state. He was born in West Virginia and became a man of noble character, who retained in his heart the purity of childhood which made him a ready sympathizer with the troubles of others and a desire to better their condition. He was of a studious nature and at an early age decided on the profession of medicine as his life work, and bent every energy to acquire a thorough knowledge of that science. He graduated from Jefferson College, of Philadelphia, his diploma costing him fifteen hundred dollars in gold. He opened an office at Hellers Corners, Allen county, this state, where he remained until 1858, building up a large practice and meeting with most flattering success. He then located in Whitley county for seven years, and was equally successful, but a more advantageous location was promised in Noble county, and, in 18(15. he moved his family there, settling on a farm which was formerly owned and occupied by Joel Bristol, the first farm to be improved in Noble c< lunty. Here he prosecuted his calling and soon acquired a reputation - that extended far and wide, while his practice was both extended and lucrative. He was specially proficient as surgeon and physician, and his success was only exceeded by his great popularity. Often he was physician, friend and counselor for two or more generations in the same family, and he was beloved by old and young. He treated with equal courtesy and care patients from all walks of life, and the child of poverty was as certain of his solicitude as was the child cradled in the lap of luxury. Of- ten the demands upon him were so protracted that his physical nature was almost exhausted; but even in that condition, he never allowed a call to go unheeded., and his endurance appeared almost miraculous. He continued to practice until shortly before his death ; the close, hard work which he followed having- told upon his health and he passed to his reward on July 20, 1875, when in his fifty-eighth year. His death was considered a personal loss by the many who knew him and had learned to love him for the innate goodness of his life as well as for benefits received. In his untimely death Noble county lost one of her leading practitioners in the medical profession.

Dr. Gandy chose as the partner of his joys and sorrows Miss Cynthia Ann Hire, who was born in Ohio, but removed with hei parents to Elkhart county, Ind., at the age of five years, remaining there until she had attained womanhood. While a resident of Allen county she became the wife of Dr. Gandy, whom she survives. The Doctor was a stanch Jeffersonian Democrat, and took an intelligent interest in all the leadingquestions of the day, being able to state his views in a clear and concise manner. He was early imbued with religious principles and united with the Methodist Episcopal church; indeed, it had been for a time undecided whether he should devote his time to the ministry or the practice of medicine, as he had studied theology, and before locating in Indiana was licensed to preach in the church of his choice.

F. L. Gandy was three years of age when his parents settled in Whitley county, Ind., and but a lad of ten when they located in Noble county. He attended the district schools and remained at home until his marriage, March 4, 1876, to Miss Almeda Mc- Daniel, and for nine years after he lived 1 n the home place and cultivated its broad acres. In 1885 he moved to the two hundred and seventy acres he now owns and occupies, which he cleared from a forest. He was engaged for several years in buying lumber, while at the same time he carried on his farming operations, his unremitting labors resulting in well merited success. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Gandy has resulted in the birth of one child, Ora D., who married Miss Victoria Ansbaugh and resides on the home place, which he helps to cultivate. He is an exemplary young man, enjoys the respect of the community to a remarkable degree and bids fair to become a leader in his chosen vocation. Mrs. Gaudy was born in Green township, this county, October 19, 1857, and is a daughter of William McDaniel and his wife, Christine (Yates) McDaniel. Her father was born in South Carolina. June 17, 1812. and her mother in Pennsylvania in the year 1822. They were among the early pioneers of Green township, and took a leading part in reclaiming it from a wilderness. Two children were born to them, Almeda and Alvadore. William Mc- Daniel died June 23, 1890, and his wife en October 23, 1888. Mr. Gandy takes great pride in all public improvements, and gives to such enterprises his most substantial encouragement. .

Alonzo T. Poyser

Alonzo T. Poyser is a well-known farmer of Noble county, Ind., who enjoys the confidence and respect of the entire community. He was born in the Buckeve state sixty-three years ago, his parents being Daniel H. and Jane ( Ripperton ) Poyser. Daniel H. Poyser was a native of Ohio but later became a resident of Noble county. Incl., where he passed away March 17, 1850. His wife was born in Pennsylvania in 1809 and lived to a good old age, dying July 8, 1890. They were the parents of seven children, viz : Alonzo T. ; Richard, who was born October 4, 1840; Franklin, born June i_\ -1842, and died in infancy; Maria J., who was born October 27, 1843, and became the wife of Henry Watchorn of Ligonier, by whom she has four children - Jennie, May, Nellie and Mortimer; Susanna, who was born August 3, 1846, is the wife of Edward Johnson of Oklahoma, and the mother of two children - Allie and Frankie; Caroline C. was born September 10, 1847, and cuecl April 6, 185 1 ; and Emma D., who became the wife of William Jay and the mother of eight children, was born August 16, 1849. Leaving Ohio when a young man, Alonzo Poyser located in Eden township, Lagrange county, Inch, but enlisted in Noble county, October 23, 1864. in Company B, Thirty-fifth Indiana Regiment, for the remainder of tlhie war. In Noble county he met and married Miss Mary Bowsher, the nuptials being solemnized January 22, 1868. Four children were the fruit of this union, namely: Clyde V., who was born December 31, 1868, and is nicely located as a farmer of Lagrange county. He married Miss Anna Graham, by whom he has one child, Garth. Charles L., born December 2j, 1870, married Mrs. Minnie ( Sipe) Bowsher; Vesta M., born April 8. 1875; and Daniel O., who was born July 7. 1877. Mr. Poyser owns fort}' acres of good land in Lagrange county and Mrs. Poyser has an undivided interest in her father's estate. They are members of the Methodist Protestant church, and Mr. Poyser has always supported the Republican policy, having voted for the first Republican nominee, General John C. Fremont. He is an honored member of Randall Post, No. 320, of Millersburg, and is an upright, honorable man whose every act will bear the searchlight of truth to be thrown upon it.

Mrs. Poyser was born October 12, 1849, and is a daughter of Boston and Sophia (Koontz) Bowsher. Her father was born in 1800 in Pickaway county, Ohio, and in 1836 came to Indiana, settling on the farm now owned by David Loy. He remained in this locality for twenty years, when he purchased the farm now occupied by Mr. Poyser. When Mr. Bowsher came to this state the most primitive conditions prevailed. The journey was made on horseback and his housekeeping was begun in the most meager circumstances, a gourd answering for a bucket, while two old knives composed the cutlery of the household, and a part of a sack of flour was all their larder contained. He worked hard, as did his wife, and in time they were able to add three more knives to the original two, and at last obtained an entire set of six, while their other belongings were also being put in better condition. Papers now belonging to his estate show that he purchased goods only on condition that he be allowed to pay for them in maple sugar, wheat or pork, they being- the principal products at that time. The environments and the efforts necessary for a comfortable existence in the new country appear to have been conducive to the health of the pioneers, as they were a rugged, hearty people, who were contented with their life and made the most M their circumstances. Boston Bowsher was the father of fourteen children, seven of whom grew to honorable manhood and womanhood, and are an honor to the noble parents who gave them life, while seven more were transplanted to the heavenly kingdom in childhood. They . are as follows: Daniel, horn August 16, 1840, died August 20, 1841 ; Amos and Dennis were twins, born September 9, 1842. Dennis died in infancy, while Amos grew to adult years, married Miss Clara Poyser, and reared a family of nine children ; Wiliam, born October 10, 1843, died the 17th of the following April ; Nelson, born March 4, 1845. (Uetl May .26, 1898, leaving a widow, whose maiden name was Clara C. Hostteter, and two children - Delvin D. and Jay; Esther, born February 4, 1848, married William Bachekler and passed to her reward July 7, 1896, leaving three children, only one, Jessie, being alive at this time ; Mary, who was bom October 12, 1849, is the wife of A. T. Poyser; Catherine, born December 2, 185 1, married Christian Slabaugh. by whom she has four children; Margaret, born July 21. 1854, married Solomon Lantz, bore him two children, and died in 1886; James, born October 21, 1856, died the following April, 7th day; Boston and Andrew were twins, were born March 9, 1858, and died in childhood; Cephas, born July 28, 1861, married Miss Ella Millner, and is the father of three bright children; and Nathan, born April 22, 1864, married Miss Minnie Sipe. He died in 1893,. leaving one child. Boston Bowsher lived to an exceptionally old age, having reached his cue hundred years, when he quietly sank into the dreamless sleep, on April 7, 1901, to awake in the springtime of eternity. His wife had preceded him March 22, 1892, to their home above, after more than a half a century of happy married life, in which they had shared together the many vicissitudes of life and won the love and esteem of 'those among whom thev labored and lived.

Charles Simon

Happy should be a community which holds within its fond embrace a member who is gi.fted with the virtue of patriotism and of justice, as well as with a knowledge of agriculture and the mechanical arts, or even any single trade the practice of which leads to an increase of the enjoyment of life and the comfort of man.

Charles Simon, at present a justice of the peace for Swan township. Noble county, Ind., was born on a farm in Columbiana county, Ohio, May 25, 1839, and is a son of Andrew and Mary (Miller) Simon, who were natives of Washington county. Penn., whence they removed to Columbiana county, Ohio, where they resided many years, and in May, 1852, came to Noble county, Ind., and settled on a farm in Swan township, which they made their home until called away by death - the father at the age of sixty-three and the mother when seventyfour years old.

Charles Simon was the seventh child born to his parents, whose family comprised eight children. He was reared on the Ohio homestead until his coming to Noble county, Ind.. with his parents, whom he dutifully assisted in their agricultural pursuits until, impelled by an ardent patriotism, he volunteered in defense of the honor of his coun- try's flag by enlisting, August 12, 1862, in Company E, One Hundredth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and bravely served until honorably discharged on account of physical disability April 16, 1863. After returning from the service of his country to his peaceful home in Swan township Mr. Simon engaged in carpenter work for ten years and then adopted agriculture as his life-vocation.

On the 6th day of February, 1867, Mr. Simon was united in matrimony with Miss Caroline Perry, a daughter of the late Oliver Perry, of Swan township, but his domestic felicity was of only short duration on this occasion, as his bride was called away by death in Goshen, Ind., April 10, 1868, after presenting her husband with a son, V. Clare. The second marriage of Mr. Simon took place in Washington township, Noble county, October 6, 1870, to Miss Josephine N. Adair, who was born in the same township February 2. 1852. and is a daughter of the late Harvey Adair. To this congenial union have been born five children, in the following order: Birdie; Lottie, who died when about twenty-five years old; Mary; Carl; and Donald.

In politics Air. Simon is a thoro<ughgoing Republican; is a worker, in fact, for liis party's interests, and is rewarded with its confidence. In 1875 he was nominated for and triumphantly elected to the office of justice of the peace by the Republicans, and so satisfactory were his esrvices in this capacity during his first term that he was renominated at its close, again elected, and again and again, until he is now filling his seventh term. In religion Mr. Simon is of the Lutheran faith, and he and his estimable wife are members of the English Lutheran

Mr. Simon owns a line farm of one hundred acres, which he has improved with handsome and substantial buildings that are a credit to the township. He makes a specialty of fruit raising, giving much of his attention to strawberries, in the cultivation of which he has acquired both fame and profit. He is a close observer of men and things in general, is a good citizen, and his services to his county, both in war and peace, have gained for him honor and respect from all his neighbors, irrespective of politics or religion, and his family mingle with the best people in Swan township.

Air. Simon is the inventor of a votingmachine and it has been demonstrated that it is a success. Fie is a pensioner, a prominent man and has the finest country home, in the countv.

Hiram C. Lindsey

Hiram C. Lindsey is one of the oldest residents of Noble county, Ind., having located here in 1839, when the country was new and the comforts of modern times were unobtainable luxuries. Mr. Lindsey was born in Knox count}', Ohio, March 8, 1826, and is a son of Jacob and Sarah ( Craven ) Lindsey. His father was born at Morrison's Cove, Penn., and his mother in the state of New Jersey. They first settled in Knox county, Ohio, where they remained until 1839, when they moved to Indiana' and settled in Noble countv, in the township of

Green, on land which is now the home of the subject. He did not long survive the journey to Indiana, passing away in the fall of 1839. His wife returned to Ohio and resided in Morrow county, living to an advanced age. They were the parents of five children : William, Mary, Hiram C, Harriet and Elizabeth. William, the eldest son, was drowned when twenty-one years of age, about two years after the death of his father.

Hiram C. Lindsey was inured to toil from his early youth and was a valuable assistant in clearing and developing much of the land in Green township. Being compelled to rely so completely on himself, he developed a business capacity remarkable in one of his years and soon won the admiration and respect of those with whom he had dealings for his sagacity. He was almost thirty years old when he established a home, May 12, 1855, taking as his wife Miss Bar- .bara Lock, who was born in Preble county, Ohio, July 11, 1837, daughter of John H. and Elizabeth (Link) Lock, and a sister of Jesse E. Lock, one of our prominent citizens. John H. Lock was born January 13, 1806, in Indiana, and his wife on February 27, 181 5. In Preble county, Ohio, they made their home until the fall of 184(1. when Mrs. Lindsey was a lass of twelve years, at which time they moved to Noble county and settled on the farm now occupied by Jesse E. Lock in Green township. Here the J father died on June 12, 1855, and the mother about 1875. There were ten children in the family : Susanna, John, Barbara, Jesse E., Mary, Benjamin, Eliza, Elizabeth, Lucina and Lydia. Mrs. Lindsey grew to womanhood and married in Green township amid the friends who had grown to love and respect her and here she has reared a family to lives of usefulness and honor. She has brought six children into the world, four of whom, George W., Mary J., Jacob F. and Oscar W., have grown to adult years, while two have passed through the portals into the life eternal. John passed away at the age of nine years, and Nancy when a sweet bud of four.

When Mr. Lindsey was married he settled on the old homestead and has devoted his attention to agricultural pursuits, although for two years he was engaged in commercial transactions. However, it took him but a short time to' see that agriculture was more suited to his requirements, and he lost no time in again taking up that pursuit, which he has since prosecuted to great advantage. He is one of the leading Democrats of his township, although he has not permitted himself to be drawn into the maelstrom of the political arena, much to the regret of his friends, who feel that they are thus deprived of a most desirable official. Mr. Lindsey and his wife have for many years been closely connected with the Christian church here, and are among its most active and influential members.

John W. Kline

The early pioneers of the country are fast passing away, and any sketch that can be obtained of them ought to be very carefully preserved. John W. Kline was born in Hanover, York county, Penn., April 17, 1 82 1. He was next to the oldest of a family of nine children: Rebecca L., John W.. Eliza B., Christine V., Mondilla, Mary Ann,

Julia Ann,- Solmyre and Caroline L. In his early days, when he was scarcely ten years of age, his parents moved from their ancestral home to Stark county, Ohio, then a place of a decidedly rural character. When he reached manhood he learned the carpenter's trade. This occupation he followed with great assiduity until he left the state o'f Ohio and settled in what was then the far west, Jefferson township, Noble county, Inch, in November, 1846. There he lived with his parents, Henry and Catherine (Muntz) Kline, during the rest of his unmarried life.

The subject was first married to Elizabeth Potts. She was born in Belleville, Richland county, Ohio, August 15, 1830, and died August 4, 1850. He was married a second time in Jefferson township, December 21, 1854, to Miss Louisa Potts, who was born in Belleville, Richland county, Ohio, August 29, 1833. Her father was Lewis Potts, and was born June 30, 1802. Her mother was Catherine Lash, who was born in Ashtabula county. Ohio, July 19, 1806. In October, 1836, they moved from Belleville, Ohio, to Noble county, Ind., and settled in Jefferson township, where they spent the remainder of their days. Mr. Potts died June 26, 1850, and Mrs. Potts followed him six and onedialf years later, passing away November 3, 1856. Mr. and Mrs. Potts were blessed with four children : Mary Ann, Elizabeth, Louise, and Christiana, living in Albion and married to David Schoff.

For several years after the subject was married he lived on his father-in-law's farm. Later he moved to the farm where he spent the remaining years of his life, passing to the world beyond on April 15, 1896. To this union was born but one child, Eugenia

F.. now the wife of Edwin A. Belt. Mr. and Mrs. Belt are the parents of six children: Edwin K.. Bertha E., Kate M., Henrietta L., Edith and Ethel.

Cornelius Ott

Is a man who stands well among his neighbors, and during his residence of over fifty years in Noble county, Ind., has shown himself to be a man of principle - one on whom implicit reliance can be placed, and a most desirable addition to the community. Mr. Ott was born in the adjoining state of Ohio, in Preble county, September 1, 1849, and is a son of an esteemed fellow-citizen, Jesse Ott, than whom no man is more respected. Jesse Ott was born in Preble county, Ohio. December 22, 1822, and is a son of John and Mary (Lock) Ott, natives of Virginia and Maryland respectively. Jesse grew to manhood in his native state and was married there to Miss Docia Brown, on January 6, 1830. She was a daughter of George and Sarah Brown, he from North Carolina and she from Virginia, who settled in Preble county. Ohio, where they died. In the fall of 1850 Jesse Ott removed with his family to Indiana and purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land in Green township, Noble county, where he has since resided and become one of the leading agriculturists. He is a shrewd and successful business man and at one time owned over five hundred acres of land, all of which has been disposed of to advantage except the original one hundred and sixty. They are the parents of eight children, namely: Cornelius, subject of this sketch; Amanda J., who became the wife of -Wiliam Clugas; John; George; Frederick; Abraham; Eli; and Alpha, wife of C. E. Hoover. Mr. and Mrs. Ott are earnest members of the Christian church.

Cornelius Ott was a child of one year when his parents sought a home in Indiana and bought a farm in Green township, Noble county. It was on this farm that young Ott was reared to manhood and taught habits of industry and economy which have enabled him to make a success of his life. He remained at home until twenty-four, although he worked by the month for seven years after he had attained his majority and had saved up his earnings until he had a neat sum as the nucleus about which to build his fortunes. His first purchase was of one hundred acres of land in Noble township, about thirty of which were cleared for cultivation, the remaining forty being in its original condition - covered with a heavy growth of timber. He cleared off this land and later added fifty-seven additional acres, which he has improved in a suitable manner with good buildings, fruit, etc., converting it into one of the many fine farms for which Noble county is noted.

Mr. Ott was married April 12, 1877, to Miss Isidora Winebrenner, who was born in this township, August 22, 1859, and was here reared to womanhood. Five children have been born to them, viz : Nellie, wife of M. A. Brackney; Efhe I.; Frederick M. ; Rachel A. ; and Orlando. Mrs. Ott is a consistent member of the Freewill Baptist church and has reared her family in the path of rectitude and duty. Her father, Jacob Winebrennerj was born in Ohio, but located in Indiana, where he met Mrs. Rachel (Marker) Scarlet, widow of Horace Scarlet, who was accidentally shot and received wounds from which he died. Mrs. Winebrenner was born in Pennsylvania, but has been a resident of this state since childhood, when her parents settled in Noble county. Her second marriage resulted in the birth of six children, Marion, Isidora, Ella, Eliza, Henry and Charles.

William W. Cary

Agricultural craft or skill, one of the grandest of man's acquirements and the predominating industry of the world and the noblest and most elevating of all others, brings health, wealth and happiness to all who pursue it intelligently and faithfully ; and among these is William W. Cary, of Jefferson township. Noble county, Ind.

Abram Cary, father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Brown county, N. Y., November 30, 1S05; Patience ( Forker) Cary, wife of Abram. was born in the same county, August 20, 1810. They were married in their native county and thence moved to Huron county, Ohio, in 1835, where the father employed himself in farming for seven years and then, in the spring of 1842, came to Noble county, Ind., and settled on a farm in Jefferson township, on whicb the father died. May 8, 1886, and the mother October 10. 1869. The}- bad a family of eisjrt children, born in the following- order:

Sorada J., who is now the wife of Benjamin Potts; SopS'.lronia E- ; Samantha A., married to Alfred Skinner; Elmira, who died in childhood; Wesley, who also died in childhood; Emily O., who is the wife of Andrew Ritter; William A*., whose name opens this article; Alvin D., who died in infancy. After the death of Mrs. Patience Cary, Ahram Cary sought another helpmate, and married Mrs. Ann (Corbin) Potts, widow of Alfred Potts, who had died of disease contracted in the army. Mrs. Potts bore the maiden name of Ann Corbin, and by her marriage with Abram Cary became the mother of one child, Uridth D.

William W. Cary was born February 26, 1848. on what is known as the J. K. Riddle farm in Jefferson township, but was reared on the farm on which he now lives, to which his parents removed when he was but three months old. He was educated in the common schools and later attended a select school at Wolcottville, Ind. He then learned the carpenter's trade, which he has since followed, in conjunction with farming, and is as expert in the use of tools as he is with agricultural implements. His farm comprises twenty-five acres of the old paternal homestead, on which he has erected handsome and commodious modern buildings. and which he cultivates in the best possible manner and produces from it amazingly fine crops.

Mr. Cary was most happily united in marriage in Jefferson township, September 11, 1870, with Miss Sarah R. Shirk, who was born in Lancaster county, Penn., April 11, 1847, ar>d is a daughter of the late Joel Shirk and his wife, Elizabeth (Reinhold) Shirk, who came from Ohio to Noble county, Ind., in the spring of 1869 and settled in

Jefferson township on the farm known in the early days as the "Skeel farm," northeast 'if Albion. Joel Shirk was born in 1805 and died 1 hi the "Skeel" place at the great age of eighty-four years, and his wife died in April, 1896, both sincere Christians and greatly respected citizens.

In politics Mr. Cary is a Democrat, and is very popular with his party as well as the public at large, and for three consecutive terms has been elected and has served as assessor of Jefferson township, the duties of which office he has filled in a most impartial and satisfactory manner, winning the approbation of all persons interested, irrespective of party affiliations. He is noted for his public spirit and his desire to promote the general welfare, as well as his upright life. Fraternally Mr. and Mrs. Cary are members of the Noble County Horticultural Society. Mr. Cary is active and progressive, and no man in the township is shown a higher degree of respect.

James W. Sweet

The generation of the present day has but a faint idea of the debt of gratitude it owes to the hardy race of men who penetrated the dense wilds of Indiana in pioneer days and wrested from the virgin forest the beautiful fields and homesteads that now dot the length and breadth of Noble county, and make it one of the most happy and fruitful spots in the state of Indiana. Yet there now lives in Jefferson township one who took a leading part in the early development of the country, in the person of the gentleman with whose name this biographical sketch is opened.

James W. Sweet, one of these early pioneers, was born in New Haven, Huron county, Ohio, April 23, 1837, and is a son of Jerome and Johanna (Dodge) Sweet, the former of whom was born in Onondaga county, N. Y., August, 1806, and the latter also a native of the same county. From Huron county, Ohio, they came to Noble count)-, Ind., in November, 1842, settled on section 10, and there passed the remainder of their lives, he dying August 23, 1869, and she October 16, 1886. Of their children five lived to reach years of maturity and were named as follows: Jane and Julia, twins; James W., the subject of this sketch; Jerome, and Ellen. Jane Sweet was married to Abel Barnum, whose life-sketch will be found on another page of this volume; Julia became the wife of Samuel E. Alvord; Jerome was a soldier in the Civil war, and died of consumption July 19, 1863, a few clays after his return to his father's home; and Ellen became the wife of Jesse Gwynn.

Mr. Sweet, the subject of this sketch, was but five or six years of age when brought by his parents to Noble county, in 1842, and was reared on his father's farm in the wilds of Jefferson township. He was early inured to the hardship and toil of pioneer life, which resulted in the development of a sound physical constitution and robust health, and the requirement of that knowledge of agriculture which has placed him among the leading farmers of his neighborhood. He continued his life and labor on the old homestead until his first marriage, which took place October 8, 1861, to Miss Hannah B. Russell, who was born in Morrow county, Ohio, March 30. 1841. and by whom he became the father of one child. Merritt J. Mrs. Hannah B. Sweet passed away March 27, 1864, and Mr. Sweet next married, July 2, 1865, Miss Sarah Gibson, who was born in Lagrange county, July 11, 1S40, and to this happy union have been born two children : Jennie P. and John S. The former was married to Francis M. Aungst, but died July 2, 1901.

Mr. Sweet has prospered as a farmer, and now owns one hundred and fifty-three acres of excellent land, improved with a handsome dwelling and commodious and conveniently arranged outbuildings. His skill as an agriculturist is universally acknowledged, and his residence in the township from the pioneer days of his childhood until the present time, now a period of about sixty years, has given him a standing in the community in which he lives that is enjoyed by few others. Broad-minded, ' patriotic and public-spirited, he has always taken a leading part in advancing the growth and prosperity of his township, and has done much in a pecuniary way toward aiding its public works and improvements. He is benevolent in disposition and very charitable, and has quietly bestowed upon his fellow citizens man}- a benefit known only to himself and the beneficiary.

Hugh A. C. Inscho

Honorable names and noble callings add luster to the reputation of any community, and the family name of InschO' and the vocation of agriculture carry with them a title to the respectful recognition of all persons living within the bounds of Noble county.