Putnam County, Indiana - Biographical sketches, 1910 (part 3 of 16)

Lycurgus Stoner, the second of the above family, was born March 17, 1836. in Putnam county. Indiana, and spent his early life on the family homestead, attending in the meantime such schools as were then common. He remained with his parents assisting in the cultivation of the farm until ominous clouds of impending civil war obscured the national horizon, when, with thousands of other loyal young men throughout the Xorth. he responded to the first call for troops, enlisting on April 21. 1861. in the Tenth Regiment. Indiana Volunteer Infantn,-. with which he served three months in Virginia, taking part during that time in several skirmishes and minor engagements, including the action at Rich Mountain, which was among the first battles of the war. At the expiration of his period of service he re-enlisted and shortly thereafter was attached to General Fremont's bodv guard at St. Louis, where he remained on active duty until his time expired. In Januarv, 1862. he joined Company E. Twenty-first Regiment. Indiana Volunteer Infantn,-. at Baltimore. Marydand. and continued with the regiment until 1864. on January loth of which year he veteranized with Companv E. Twenty-first Regiment. Indiana Volunteers, at Baton Rouge, Louisiana, which was in General Butler's command and operated along the lower Mississippi and elsewhere, among the more noted of that General's

Later ]Mr. Stoner was with General Banks on the ill-starred Red River expedition, where he saw much active ser\'ice and passed through many thrilling experiences ; he also participated in the battle at Baton Rouge, the capture of Port Hudson and a number of other engagements, his military service being replete with duty bravely and uncomplainingly performed. While at the front he was fortunate in escaping injury, the only time he was absent from his command by reason of disability being a short period in a hospital at New Orleans, where he was treated for an attack of typhoid fever.

Discharged with an honorable record at the expiration of his period of enlistment, Mr. Stoner returned to Putnam county and shortly thereafter purchased a fine tract of bottom land on the Big Walnut creek, which he at once proceeded to improve. Mr. Stoner in due time had his farm under a high state of tillage and in connection with agriculture also devoted considerable attention to the breeding and raising of fine livestock, in which his success was continuous and gratifying. For twenty-eight years he was associated with his brother Peter in the livestock business and since 1884 has o\:cupied the beautiful and commodious home in Washington township, where he is now living a life of honorable retirement.

Mr. Stoner, on February 14, 1867, was happily married to Elvira Boone, a daughter of Daniel and Malinda (Miller) Boone, the father a native of Harrison county, Indiana, and a son of Moses and Hannah Boone and a great nephew of Daniel Boone, the noted hunter, frontiersman and Indian fighter, who bore such a distinguished part in the early annals of Kentucky and elsewhere throughout the central West. Mrs. Stoner's father came to Putnam countv with his parents about 182 1 and settled on Big Walnut creek in Washington township, where Moses Boone died in 1853 at the ripe old age of eighty-four years and three months. Daniel spent his young manhood clearing and developing the farm on which he and his faithful wife spent the remainder of their days, he departing this life on October 20, 18S9, aged seventy-three, and she on the 12th day of March, 1902. when eighty-two years old. All of the eleven children born to this estimable couple grew to maturity, and ten of the number are still living, being among the old and well known residents of Putnam county and highly esteemed in their respective communities. Squire Boone, a brother of the famous frontiersman, at one time owned the farm on which Mr. Stoner now lives ; he sold the land in 1849 and went to Iowa, settling on the present site of Boonsboro

Mrs. Lycurgus Stoner. whose birth occurred February 9, 1840, has borne her husband eight children, live of whom survive, viz : Fred, who lives on the homestead in Washington township; Gertrude, under the parental roof: Maude, who married Edward Houck, of Brazil, Indiana; Blanche, wife of Oscar O'Hair, of Monroe township, and Lycurgus. who lives on the home farm in the township of Madison. ]\Ir. Stoner is a public spirited citizen who stands for all enterprises having for their end the material prosperity of the community and the moral advancement of his fellow men and since attaining his majority has yielded unwavering allegiance to the Republican party. For several years he was a director of the First National Bank of Greencastle, but for some time he has not been identified with any public institution, being the possessor of a handsome fortune and amply able to spend the remainder of his life in the enjovment and rest which his long years of strenuous effort so richly entitle him.

William G. Braxham

Among Putnam county's eminent citizens who have passed out of the scene of life's activities into the larger life beyond, were those who achieved distinction in callings requiring intellectual abilities of a high order. Among the latter was William G. Branham, who for many years occupied a conspicuous place in the educational circles of the county, and who was the first superintendent of schools of this county. Beginning his pedagogical work at an early age, he fully appreciated the responsibility of his mission and was a faithful and conscientious teacher, as well as a true friend and judicious advisor to those who were students under him. Today his memory is held sacred by many who were students under him and who, under his direction, learned the lessons which have contributed to their subsequent successes.

William G. Branham \vas born in Putnam county, Indiana, in 1836, and was a son of Berry and Morris (Sinclair) Branham. He was reared on the home farm and secured his elementaiy education in the common schools. Determining to fit himself for the profession of teaching, Mr. Branham became a student in old Asbury (now DePauw) University, where he remained nearly four years. At the age of nineteen years he began teaching school at Manhattan, but afterwards his labors were mainly confined to the schools at Cloverdale, where he was employed for many years. In 1866 he became superintendent of schools for Putnam county, but resigned from the office because of some requirements regarding his report of time employed, which his conscience would not permit him to fulfill. Later in life he took up agricultural pursuits, which he carried on until his death, which occurred at the family residence in Warren township in October, 1896. He was truly one of God's noblemen, standing "four square to every wind that blows." and in his death the entire community felt it had suffered a distinct loss.

On November 17, 1861. Mr. Branham was married to Sarah Hughes, a daughter of Harrison and Mary (Prather) Hughes, she having been born on a farm two miles north of Cloverdale. Her parents were natives of Kentuckv and her father died while she was but a child.

John A. Bence

Philip Bence was one of the adventurous band who braved the terrors of the western wilderness during the latter part of the eighteenth century, when it took courage and endurance to make the trip over the mountains and down the streams. A native of Pennsylvania, he left his home in early manhood and floated down the Ohio to the Falls, where he made up his mind to settle. He took up a location on the ridges in the rear of Louisville, but later bought bottom lands which were mostly under water and at that time possessed little value. His son and namesake. Philip Bence, was born in iSoi in Jefferson county, Kentucky, and married x\nna Yenowine Bruce, a native of the same county. In 1853 he came to Indiana and settled on a farm in Putnam county \\-here his son now lives. It consists of three hundred and fiftv acres and is situated in Wa.shington township near the present interurban station of Hutcheson. It was partly improved and about one-half consisted of bottom land on the west fork of Eel river. The purchase price at the time was thirty dollars per acre and Philip Bence and his wife spent their lives on that farm. He sold his old home eight miles from Louisville for seventy-five dollars. The last years of his life were spent in retirement and his lilameless life ended in October. 1882, when he was eio-htv-one vears old. His wife passed away in her seventieth year. They were lifelong members of the Christian church. They reared ten children, to maturitv. whose names are as follows: Fountain, a fanner in Clay county, died when sixtv-five vears old; Onesimus lived and died in Clay county;

Elizabeth, wlio married Warren Greenweli, died in Clay county, where she had lived a number of xears : Jeptha, who owned a woollen mill at Greencastle, died at the age of sixty; Lydia, now deceased, was the wife of John Lidick, who resided near Groveland. in Putnam county ; Louisa married Philip Hutchenson, of Washington township. Putnam county; Genevra died in early womanhood, shortly after her marriage to Gregg Smith; Matilda, who also died when still young, was the wife of Le\-i Hepler, of Putnam county ; George W. is a physician at Greencastle,

John A. Bence, the oldest child, was born near Louisville, Kentucky, October 29, 1836. He was seventeen years old when his father came to Putnam county and, being strong and vigorous, he was able to do valuable work in clearing the newly purchased farm. He became an excellent farmer for those days, being industrious, level headed, of fine judgment and a good trader. He bought one-third of his father's old place and on this he has ever since made his home. In 1891, he erected the commodious house now seen on the place and made many other improvements, which put his holdings among the high priced and desirable farms of Putnam county. He has never been a fancy farmer and eschewed all the fads and fancies of the theoretical agriculturist. He preferred to put his faith to the old standbys, corn, hogs and cattle, of which he fed a large number each year, turning all his grain into stock, instead of selling it, which is the mark of a successful farmer. By concentrating all his time and ability on the farm he matle a success of his business and ranks among the foremost of Putnam countv's farmers.

In 1853 ^^^- Bence married Anna Kidd, who was reared in Louisville, but \\'h(T was visiting relatives in Putnam county when she met her future husband. She died in August, 1909, after forty-six years of affectionate and faithful married life. Mr. and Mrs. Bence have an only daughter. Emma, now the wife of William Hi)uck, a farmer and trader who makes his resirlence at Greencastle, He is a son of David and Rachel Houck, who lived near neighbors of the Bence family. Carl Ferand manages the farm and with his family lives in tlie house. Mr. Bence greatly enjoys his stock and garflen. He has a fine spring abo\-e his house, the water of which is first piped to the yard and then to the tanks at the barn, the plant being used to irrigate his garden in case of need. He has been an all-around reader, keeping abreast of the times and has been a subscriber of the Chicago Record- Herald for twentv years. In 1887 he went to California and saw much of the coast country, but found nothing to excel Indiana. (21)

Clem Ext C. Hurst

Practical industry, wisely and vigorously applied, never fails of success. It carries a man onward and upward, brings out his individual character and acts as a powerful stimulus to the efforts of others. The greatest results in life are often attained by simple means and the exercise of the ordinarv qualities of comnK^n sense and perseverance. The every-day life with its cares, necessities and duties, affords ample opportunities for acquiring experience of the best kind and its most beaten paths provide a true worker with abundant scope for effort and improvement. This fact having been recognized earlv in life by Clement C. Hurst, the well known business man of Greencastle. he has seized the small opportunities he has encountered on the rugged hill that leads to life's lofty summit where lies the ultimate goal of success, never attained by the weak, ambitionless and inactive.

Mr. Hurst was born in Jefferson township, Putnam county, his father, Amos Hurst, having been a native of the same township. This family has been prominent in Putnam county since the days of the first settlers and from that period to the present no family here has borne a better reputation. Amos Hurst became known as one of the leading educators of this locality, having taught school until he was thirty years old, then followed farming until his death, March I2. 1873, having spent his entire life in Putnam county. He took some interest in political affairs and he served at one time as assessor of Jeft'erson township. He married Frances E. Keller, who was born in Rockinf^ham county, Virginia, from which state she came to Putnam county, Indiana, with her parents when a child. Her death occurred on August 29, 1900. Mr. and Mrs. Amos Hurst were highly respected by all their neighbors for their upright and useful lives. They were the parents of five children, namelv : Clement C, of this review; Clara A. is the wife of Oscar O. Lane, of Wichita. Kansas; Rowena E. is the wife of Charles E. Smith, of Greencastle: Josephine is the wife of Harvey S. Gardner, of Ladoga. Montgomerv' countv. Indiana : Alpheus E. is living on the old home farm in Jefferson township.

The Hurst family is of English stock, the first representatives of this name having emigrated to America six or seven generations ago. He came from England and located in Virginia. Clement C. Hurst's great-greato-randfather. John Hurst, lived in Tennessee. The former's great-grandfather. Jesse Hurst, came to Putnam county, Indiana, alxDut 1822. The o-randfather, George Hurst, a native of Tennessee, came to Putnam county, in 1822. settling in Warren township, later removing to Jefferson township. George Hurst married Elizabeth Hibbs. a native of Jonesboro, Tennessee, having been married March 17. 1825. She came to Putnam county. Indiana, and here married George Hurst. Eleven children were born to them. Amos, father of Clement C.. being the oldest. George Hurst died in April. 1865, at the age of sixty-si.x years, having been born in 1799. His wife was born in 1800 and died in 1890. being therefore ninety years of age. George Hurst was one of the early pioneers of Putnam county, he and his brother, David Hurst, having come here from Tennessee on horseback, and after looking over the land returned home and brought their families here.

Clement C. Hurst lived on the parental farm, which he worked in the summer months, attending the district schools in the winter until the age of twenty-two years, when he moved to Greencastle. He had previously attended school here, and took a course in DePauw University and became well educated. He was twenty-eight years old when he located permanently in 1822. settling in Warren township, later removing to Jefferson township, which he followed for two years, after which he came to Greencastle and ser\e(l three years as deputy county recorder, then served three years as deputy auditor under George M. Block. He made an excellent record in these capacities, giving the utmost satisfaction. He then engaged in the fire insurance business, which he still continues, having built up quite an extensive patronage. In 1902 he was electerl county auditor, serving four vears. During his term in this ofifice the new court house was built. He resumed his fire insurance business after his term of office expired. He still owns a farm and is engaged in stock raising.

Mr. Hurst was first married to Louella Walker in 1887. She was a native of Indianapolis. Indiana. No children were born to this union. Mrs. Hurst was called to her rest on October 11, 1896. On September 23. 1905. Mr. Plurst married Pauline Blake, of Greencastle. daughter of George E. and Lizzie Blake, a well known family here. This union is also without issue.

Daniel Hurst, second cousin of Clement C. was elected county recorder of Putnam county, in 1886. holding the same for eight years. He now lives in Shattuck. Oklahoma.

Mr. Hurst belongs to the College A\-enue Methodist Episcopal church, and also belongs to the Masons. Politically he is a Democrat and has lonptaken an active interest in political affairs, as already intimated. His counsel has frequently been sought in local matters, and he was a delegate to the last national Democratic convention in 1908. He stands high in the conn- cils of his party in the fifth district. For his puhhc spirit, his deep concern in all that pertains to the welfare of his community and for his known scrupulous integrity, he is held in high favor by all classes.

David J. Skelton

Among the leading farmers and public spirited citizens of Washington township is David J. Skelton, who was born April i6. 1S73, on land in Putnam county, entered by his grandfather. William Skelton. shortly after this part of the state was opened for settlement. William Skelton came to this county in an early day and here married Mary Ann Jenkins, whose parents were also among the pioneers. He entered a quarter section of land in Washington township, and in due time cleared and improved a farm on which his death afterwards occurred at the age of fifty-four or fifty-six years, and which is still in the family name ; his widow survived him a number of years, dying at the ripe old age of eighty-seven. Two sons of this worthy couple grew to maturity and are still living. Jeremiah, of Bowling Green, Clay county, and William, father of the subject of this sketch, one son dying in infancy; there were also two daughters, Almira, who married Philip Ward, and lived for a number of years on the homestead, dying some time ago at Terre Haute, and ^Nlrs. Harriet Brotherton, who spent her entire life on the home place.

William Skelton, Jr., was born on the home farm in Washington township and at the age of twenty-two years married Nancy Tressner, whose father, Hiram Tressner, an early settler of the county, died at about the time the wedding of his daughter was solemnized. His widow subsequently removed to Coles countv. Illinois, and thence to ^Missouri, where her death afterwards occurred. After his marriage William Skelton took possession of the homestead which he operated for several years, later deeding a part of the place to the sons, by whom it is still owned. In connection with farming, he did a thriving business for a number of years threshing grain, in which capacitv he became widely known throughout the greater part of Putnam county. He early united with the Primitive Baptist church, in which he was made an elder while still a young man and later entered the ministry, to which holy calling he has devoted much of his time during the part of twentv-five years. For a period of fifteen years he served the congregation at Otter Creek and at a part of that time ministered to the Providence and Eel River churches, holding membership with the last named. He has also visited a number of other churches from time to time and is recognized as one of the strong and influential preachers of his denomination in the state of Indiana. Mrs. Skelton bore her husband thirteen children and departed this life on the 5th of May. 1906. Of the children seven are living at the present time, namely: George W'., who owns a part of the home farm; David J., of this review: Clarence E., one of Putnam county's most successful teachers; Candace J., who married John Mace and lives in Washington township; Lemuel O., also a resident of Washington township and a farmer by occupation ; Paul lives near Brazil in Clay county, this state, and Isaac, who farms part of the family homestead.

David J. Skelton was reared to agricultural pursuits and remaineel with his father until his twenty-second year, attending at intervals in the meantime the district schools and growing up to the full stature of well developed manhood and amply fitted to grapple with life and duty. On ^March 4, 1895, he was married to Martha Charlotte McEIroy, daughter of Welcome R. and ^lary (Barnett) McElroy, the union being terminated by the untimely death of the young wife within less than a year, she leaving a son, Glenn C. a bright and promising youth of fourteen years of age at this writing (1910). Later, September 4. 1898, Mr. Skelton married his present wife, whose maiden name was Lena Alice White, daughter of Ezekiel and Mary (Xugent ) White, and whose birth occurred in Parke county, on October 8, 1872. Mrs. Skelton's father was a native of Pennsylvania, but -when a young man came to Ohio, thence to Parke county, Indiana, wdiere he married and reared a family of thirteen children and spent the remainder of his days, his wife surviving him and still living on the farm where he made his home for so many years.

Mr. Skelton, with his brothers George and Clarence, owned the homestead for several years, their father deeding it to them, but the subject afterwards sold out to George, and purchased his present farm, which was formerly owned by Harrison Elliott and to which he has since added three hundred to the original one hundred and twenty acres, making a fine farm of four hundred and twenty acres of valuable land, well improved and under a high state of cultivation. The place, which is one of the best in the county, is adapted to agriculture and stock raising, to the latter of which Mr. Skelton devotes especial attention, being a successful breeder and raiser of highgrade horses, mules, cattle and hogs. In addition to his beautiful home place, he owns the W. R. McElroy farm of forty-three acres, which formerly belonged to the father of his first wife and which with its fine buildings and other improvements adds very materially to his fortune.

As a farmer, Mr. Skelton easily ranks among the most enterprising and successful in Putnam county, being progressive in his methods and keeping fully abreast of the times on all matters relating to modern agriculture. He raises abundant crops of grain, vegetables, fruits, etc.. and by a judicious system of rotation seldom if ever fails to realize liberal returns from his time and labor. His continued success indicates the possession of much more than ordinary ability and he is today not only one of the leading agriculturists and stockmen of his county, but also stands high as a business man and financier.

The Skelton home is a model of its kind and in many respects one of the most beautiful and desirable residences in Putnam county. Everything on the premises bears testimony to the care and attention of the proprietor and the deep interest he takes in the prosecution of his labors.

In political views 'Sir. Skelton is a Democrat and as such wields a strong influence for his party locally and throughout the county, being a judicious adviser in its councils and an influential worker in the ranks. At one time he was a candidate for the office of county commissioner. He is not an office seeker, however, preferring to work for his friends rather than aspire to public honors for himself. Fraternally he belongs to the Knights of Pythias lodge; although not identified with any religious organization, he is a regular attendant and liberal contributor to the Baptist church, with which his wife holds membership.

Joseph Moler

One of the well known residents of Clinton township is Joseph Moler. who was born in Nicholas county, Kentucky, June _'. 1834. In 1853 he came to Indiana and has since made this state his place of abode. He is the son of John and Sarah (Colliver) :Moler. the former born in Bourbon county. Kentucky, in the same vicinity as his son, Joseph. His parent;! were Pennsylvania Dutch who came to Kentucky about 1790, his father, Joseph Moler, having been a soldier in the Revolutionary war. In 1853 John Moler and family came to Putnam county. Indiana, locating in Clinton township on the land where Joseph Moler now resides. It was then only partly cleared and had a few rude buildings (5n it. and here the elder Moler lived, and died on XovemI)er 3. 1866, at the age of si.xty-one years, having been born November 30, 1805. His wife died in 1856. at the age of forty-seven years. She was born in Montgomery county, Indiana, in i8og. Only one of their children was born in Indiana ; those to reach maturity were, Mary, \vlii> married Russell Allen, of Greencastle. and died in that city in 1873 or 1874: Joseph, of this review; Richard H., a farmer in Parke county, Indiana: JefT. T.. who lives in Louisiana. ?iIissouri ; Susan E., who married R. D. Hamilton and died when in middle life: Levi, who went to Missouri, where he died; Jemima, the wife of Mr. Flannah antl lixing in Missouri: Presley C, a bachelor and still living on the old homestead; Emma J., who married Caleb Bratton, of Poone county, Indiana.

Joseph ]\Ioler was nineteen years old when he came to Indiana. He remained at home until he was twenty-five years old. assisting in clearing the place. On November i, 1859, he married Lucy P. Xewgent. he being twentvfive and she eighteen ; they had lived on adjoining famis for some time. A sketch of her father, Edward Xewgent, appears elsewhere in this volume. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Moler spent two years in Pulaski countv, Indiana, then mo\ed back to Putnam county on the farm of ]Mr. Moler's father, taking charge of part of it. In 1868 he rented and took charge of the entire farm of two hundred and forty acres. Later he bought the interests of others in the home place, owning eight}' acres. He has made e.xtensi\-e impro\'ements on his place, building a fine home in 1891, and he has good barns and devotes considerable time to stock raising, making grains also a specialty, feeding what grain the place produces. He has laid two hundred and fiftv rods of tile. He is ^-ery successful as a general farmer. Mr. ^[oler is an independent thinker and keeps well posted on political and current events He is no partisan and always votes for the men whom he deems to be the best qualified for the offices sought.

Three chiUlren ha\e been born to Mr. and Mrs. Moler, one of whom died when ten years of age. Le\'i Shelby Moler is a farmer in Clinton township: he was candidate for nomination as county clerk in 1910. Stella May married J. X. Brown, a farmer of Woonsocket, South Dakota.

On Xo\ember i. 1909. was celebrated Mr. and Mrs. Moler's fiftieth wedding anniversary, which was f|uite an event in the Moler family and greatly enjoyed by all who were fortunate enough to be present. The only anniversar\- guest who was also present at their marriage was John Xewgent, I'ousin of Mrs. Moler, he having enjoyed the celebration after a half centurv lapse from the nuptial day almost as much as the elderly couple themselves. Rew Joseph Skeeters, now deceased, perfomied the marriage ceremony.

Fraternally ^Ir. Moler is a Mason and he takes a great interest in Masonry, endea\'oring to live up to its wholesome teachings in his e\"erv dav life.

John W. Robe

The best title one can establish to the high and generous esteem of a community is a protracted and honorable residence in its midst. Mankind is generally fair and just in its judginents. An unusual event may sway it for a time, but when normal conditions are again restored a just judgment is certain to follow, true views eventually prevailing and then the accurate public judgment is inevitable. It is for this reason that a man is judged rather bv what his neighbors think of him than anything he may have said or done. When a court desires to find out whether or not a witness is truthful, it asks what the person's reputation is for truth in the neighborhood in which he lives. The law correctly estimates that the judgment of the public is almost invariably infallible. Judged by this measure. John W. Robe, now a resident of the city of Greencastle and long one of the prominent and substantial citizens of Putnam county, must necessarily be a man of strictest integrity and uncjuestioned ability along his chosen lines of endeavor. His protracted residence here of nearly a half century has been an eminently honorable one, as is well established by the high regard in which he is held by all who have had occasion to know him.

Mr. Robe is a native of Morgan county, Indiana, having been born on August 21, 1843, the son of William and Nancy (St. John) Robe. The father formerly lived near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and came to Indiana in an early day, locating in Marion county, later moving to Morgan county. The mother, Nancy St. John, was born near Cincinnati. Ohio, being the representative of a prominent family, a cousin of Governor St. John, of Kansas. William Robe, a man of sterling qualities and excellent character, met death in a tragic manner, having been killed by members of the "Golden Circle." a well-known war-time organization, on May 2r, 1863. He was prominent in Republican politics and took an active interest in public affairs.

It was in 1S62 that John W. Robe came to Putnam county. He received an excellent primarv education in the common schools and he took a course in Asbury (now DePauw) University, at Greencastle. where he made a splendid record for scholarship and from which institution he was graduated in the spring of 1868. Towards the latter part of the war of the Rebellion he gave vent to his patriotism and enlisted in the One Hundred and Thirtythird Regiment. Indiana Volunteer Infantr}-. but was not permitted to share in manv of the hard campaigns and fierce engagements that fell to the lot of some of his friends. He was honorably discharged and returned to Putnam county in 1864.

Deciding that his true inclinations were along legal lines. Mr. Robe took up the study of law and was duly admitted to the bar in 1869. but not taking so kindlv to this vocation as he had anticipated, he abandoned the practice in 1870 and turned his attention to the freer and more wholesome life of the agriculturist which he has made his principal life work and in which he has been verv successful, now owning one of the choice and most valuable of Putnam county farms, comprising six hundred acres, which he still operates and which he has brought to a high state of cultivation and improvement and which, under his skillful management, has for years yielded abundant harvests. He is also considered an authority on livestock and has kept his place well stocked with various kinds of excellent quality. He has long been prominently identified with the sheep industrs- of Putnam county, and is now president of the Putnam County Wool Growers' Association, having held this position for years. For twenty years he was secretary of the Indiana Wool Growers' Association, and at one time he was president of the Shorthorn Breeders' Association. As head of the Putnam County Wool Growers' Association ^Nlr. Robe has endeared himself to the farmers of the county for his splendid work in their behalf, his labors in this direction having greatly benefited his farmer neighbors incalculably, and he is recognized as their special friend and champion. He was urged as a candidate for the state board of agriculture, but refused to make an active fight for the place. He has always been recognized throughout the state as a leading authority on agriculture. Mr. Robe was one of the organizers of the Central National Bank of Greencastle and a member of its first board of directors. He was one of a company of ten who erected the Central Bank block. Later he was a member of the board of directors of the First Xational Bank of Greencastle.

Mr. Robe has recently moved to Greencastle. where he has erected a beautiful, modern and attractive home in one of the choicest residence districts of the city.

Mr. Robe's domestic life began on October 5. 1870. when he married Sarah M. Stevenson, a lady of culture and refinement, the daughter of Dr. A. C. Stevenson, a prominent physician of this county during a past generation, a full sketch of whom appears on another page of this work. Mrs. Robe has been a true partner and helpmeet in life, always performing her part and assuming her full share of responsibility. A woman of rare good judgment, she has always been a wise counselor, and to her Mr. Robe largely attributes his success in life. Like her father. IMrs. Robe has always been considerate of the rights of others, ever ready to do her part, and performing deeds of kindness where her hands find them to do.

Weik S Iiistorv Of

Politically Mr. Robe is a loyal Republican, but he has never been an office seeker. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, Post Xo. II, Greencastle. He has always been interested in movements calculated to be of general good to the people of Putnam count}- and ready to lend any assistance in such movements as he could, and, being a man whose record is clean, he has both the confidence and respect of all classes.

John F. Shoxkwiler

This well known citizen of Clinton township has long been regar<led as one of the model farmers of Putnam county, being a link between the days of the historic primitive past and the opulent present, for his long anil useful life has been passed right here at home and he has been a very important factor in local affairs, doing his full share in the development of the community. John F. Shonkwiler was born in Clinton township, October ii, 1838, the son of Daniel and Ruth (Spurgeon) Shonkwiler. The father of the former was born on the Atlantic ocean while his parents were enroute from Germany to America. He grew up in America and married Elizabeth Grant, who died in Ohio. Daniel Shonkwiler. Jr., was born in Ohio, in 1821 and when a young man came to Indiana with his father and settled in Parke county, where they remained for two years, then bought one-half mile south of the farm now owned by John F., of this review ; there they literally hewed out a farm from the woods and there the son lived until his death, about 1854. dying when past eighty. He married Xancy Reed in Parke county, who survived him and made her home with her two sons, in Iowa, and died in that state. Daniel left three children in Ohio. The Shonkwiler family consisted of the following children : Simeon. David, Daniel, Adonas. X'athaniel. X'ancy, Margaret, Julia. All the girls married and moved to the West, and all the sons except one went to Iowa or Illinois. Daniel remained in Indiana. He became owner of one-half of his father's place, but settled on an adjoining farm. When twentv-two years old he married, his wife. Ruth Spurgeon. being twentv-one. and thev spent the rest of their lives on the farm now owned by Clay Magill. Daniel was a good farmer and owned in all two hundred and twenty-nine acres of land, clearing up most of it. He left the farm about 1854 and for a period of twelve years devoted his time to the ministry, being a circuit rider in the Methodist church in which work he did a great deal of good and became widely known. For several years lie had preached locnlly : Iiis duties took liini into Illin(jis and over nortliwestern and western Indiana. During that period he organized many new churches. He was pastor of the home or northern circuit for one year, but much of his work was in Illinois. His health failing, he returned to the old farm, but continued to preach occasionally and after some years did supply work at or near Brap^il and while serving that church experienced one of his most prosperous years. He held revivals, taking into the church over one hundred members; one of his delights was to conduct a camp meeting. This good and useful man died on the old homestead in August. 1887, ^^ the age of si.xty-six years, his wife having preceded him to the other world several years, and he had married again, his last wife being Miranda Thompson, widow, who survived him. Xo chiMren were born of the last union. The first union resulted in the birth of five sons and two daughters, namely: John F.. of this review; William went to Benton county, Indiana, when a young man; Jacob also lived in Benton county and died there ten years ago; Ferris spent his life in Clinton township, near Morton ; Daniel moved to Parke county about ten years ago, locating near Rockville ; Mary married Tilman Moore and died in Parke county ; Malinda died at the age of four years.

\\'hen about fifteen years of age John F. Shonkwiler took charge of the old homestead and continued to conduct the same until his marriage, October 13. 1859. to Ruth Carmichael. daughter of John and Matilda (Spurgeon) Carmichael. When one }ear old her mother had come to this country with Moses Spurgeon. settling on an adjoining farm. John Carmichael was born on Lost River. Indiana, and when a young man came to Putnam county and married here and spent his life on the farm, which joins the old Shonkwiler place; there they both died, the father when about seventy-five years of age. The Carmichael farm is now owned by the son of John F. Shonkwiler - \\'illiam. The old Moses Spurgeon farm, where he and his wife died, is now owned by Thomas Brothers.

.-\fter his marriage. Tohn F. Shonkwiler remained on the old home place for a time, then mo\-ed to a farm in this vicinity. Seven years ago he went to Belmore and remained two years, coming to his present farm five years ago. He has erected excellent buildings on the same and has a well improved and valuable place, desirable from every viewpoint. It joins his grandfather's old place on the north, and consists of ninety acres, and he also owns twenty-five acres of the old Carmichael farm and has two hundred and ninetv-six acres two miles south of the ninety. He is doing well with his diversified farming and stock raising, making this his main business.

candidate for county commissioner. His family consists of the following children, four sons and three daughters : Daniel lives on his father's old homestead and was a minister in the United Brethren church in Indiana and Illinois for nine years ; William lives on the old Carmichael farm ; John also lives on a part of the old Shonkwiler farm ; Oliver is farming in JVIadison township; Jane is single and living at home; Amanda married William Boswell and lives in Parke county; Mary married George Cricks, of Clinton township.

The father of these children is a member of the United Brethren church, but was a ^Methodist early in life; he is one of the loyal supporters of the Beech Grove church, Putnam countv.

Warren Pickens

The names of those men who have distinguished themselves through the possession of those qualities which daily contribute to the success of private life and to the public stability and who have enjoyed the confidence and respect of those about them should not be permitted to perish. Such a one is Warren Pickens, whose name needs no introduction to the readers of this work, for not only does he enjoy a wide acquaintance in Putnam county, but the sterling qualities which characterize him have brought to him the honor and esteem of all who know him.

\\'arren Pickens is a native son of the county in which he lives, having been born in Jefferson township in 1846. He is the son of James and Matilda (Rogers) Pickens. James Pickens, who was born in 1804, was the son of James Pickens. Sr., and was a native of Harrison county, Kentucky. Matilda Rogers was born in 1814 and was the daughter of Col. George and Elizabeth (White) Rogers, of Boone county, Kentucky. In that county Jarnes Pickens and Matilda Rogers were married and for a few years they followed farming there. Seven children were born to them, namely: Two daughters that died in infancy; James B., now a resident of Elwood, Indiana; Samuel was a member of Company I, Twenty-seventh Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantr}-, and died in the service in 1864; Warren is the immediate subject of this sketch; Emily J., who died in 1890. was the wife of John M. Scott; Mary C. resides in Clo\erdale. James Pickens and wife came to Cloverdale township. Putnam county, in 1835. at which date the country was wild and un- settleil, their nearest neighbor being distant a mile and a halt and the land being mostly co\'ered with a dense growth of the nati\e timber, in which roamed wolves, panthers and other wild game. Here 'Sir. Pickens entered a tract of go\ernment land, three miles east of Cloverdale. and luiught other land, SM that his total hi_ildings amonntcd tD 'ine hnn^lred and sixt\' acres, A few }-ears later. nc)t later than 1840, he entered another tract of government land in Jefterson tc^wnship, this cmint}', and also l)onght adjoining land, making one hundred and sixt}- acres in that tract also. (])n this latter place there \\as a water-power mill, which became known far and near as Pickens' Mill, and which was operated with cinisiderable success untd 1850. The elder Pickens lived on this faun until 1S70. when he moved to (do\enlale. where he spent the remainder of his da\'s, his death occin'ring Xi:i\emljei" i. iSSc). His wife died on July 31. 18S3.

Warren Pickens w;is reared on the home farm and recei\'ed his earl\" education in the cmmtrx- schorjis of that period, being compelled the most ot the time to walk' twri nules to the s<diool. which was, in comparis(:)n to the schiH'iK nf todax", svimew hat primiti\e in iiietliMiN and e'juipment. .\ little later he began teaching school during the winter months, apphing himself to fai'ui wiirk in summer, this arr.angement cintinuing for fi\c or six \ears. Piuring much of this time he also t.aught writing in the ex'enings. In those d;n-s his wages a\"eraged two (hollars i"ir Ic'^^ a da_\'. anil the da\''s work was long and he wa- CMinpelled t'l perform all the ianit^ir >er\ ice : beside^ this he always f.nmd an abundance of farm chores t' > doi at It 'me out of schoijl hours. In the spring of lisfx) ]\lr. Pick'cns commenced farming iin his (;)w n accotmt on the place where his f.ather had first settled, three miles east of CIi"i\'erdale. and as the farm had been rented out for a nmiiber i)f it \\as in bad shape when he took hi_")lil of it. How e\ er. he made all the needed improvements and continued to ^uccessftilly operate it dm-ing the fc)llowing ten }ears. Plis wife dying. Mr. Pickens ga\-e up housekeeping anrl m(i\-ed to ( "lo\ erd.ale. where he engaged in handling lixestock' for fom" rjr fi\'e \ears. being during the following three and a half \ears engaged in the butchering business. He is still resiiling in (~lo\-erdale. where he has a pleasant hi>me surrounded! with four acres of land, and he continues the operation of his f.arm, though not In'mself actix'cK' engageil in work, being nciw able to eniov the fruits ..f his former efforts. However, he will ne\-er "rust "Ut." for he is not the kind of a m:m who can sit iilly by and do nothing, but he is alwa\-s occupied with something. One of his fa\orite iliversir)ns is fishing, at which he is an exjiert. and few followers of Iz,i;d< \\'alti''n .are m>'re enthusiastic or successful than he.

In iSuS Mr. Pickens was united in marriage to Hester M. Collins, the (lau"-hter <if Whitfield and Mary A. Collins, and they l)ecanie the parents of two children. .\lva K. and Oris E., the tdrnier having died at the age of seven vears. Oris, who lives on the home farm, three miles east nf Cloverdale, married Mvrtle Watson, the daughter of James M. and Malissa W"atson, and thev ha\e lour children. Clara, Arthm" E., Mar}' Chloe an<l Warren. Mrs. Hester Pickens died in 1S7S and in 18S6 Mr. Pickens married Mar}' E. Pottorff, the daughter of Thomas and .\nn hdizaheth 1 Ililtom I'ottorff. Her paternal grandfather was a nati\e of Germany an<l his wife was a native of Ireland.

Fratern.alK- Mr. Pickens is a member ol the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and wa> a meniher of the encampment of that ijrder until it was dissolved and the charter surrendered. Politically he is a strong Repulilican and. though living in a Democratic stronghold, he came very near election as trustee. He is not. however, a seeker after oftice, though he takes an intelligent interest in local public affairs. ]\Irs. Pickens is a member of the Aletliodist Episcr)pal church. Thev are widely known and botli are highly esteemed bv all who know them.

.Vniong the progre--si\e and enterprising agricultm-ists of Putnam countv, Indiana, none stands higher in public regard than does the gentleman whose name appears at the head of these paragraphs and who is engaged in the operatii'iu oi a splendiil and well cultivated farm in Clo\ erdale township. Mr. (.'line was born l"ebruar_\- 15, o"^?-'. in this township and is a son of Peter and Marv ( Carmack ) Cline. The paternal gramlparents were Jacob and r.arliara Cline. The Cline fannly came original]} from C.erman_\-, three Ijrothers coming together, one settling in Pennsylvania and another, Jacob, locating in the eastern part of Tennessee. Later he mcneil to Kentucky, where because of a defecti\e title, he lost his land and crops. During the earlv twenties, while Cloverdale township, Putnam county, was first being settled, lacob Cline and fannly came here and located about two and a half miles west of where Clovenlale now is. They were in rather poi^r financial circumstances ,it that time, their cash capital aniixmting to but fifty cents. But thev were determined W^ win a home and competence and went willfully to work ti") this end. lacob Cline entered a tract of gox'ernment lami, which was covereil with the primeval forest and t^) the task of clearing this land and renderinj;- it tit for cultivation these hardy pioneers applied themselves. The first year they were iinaijle to plant their own ground and walked back and iV>rth three miles h> a patch of cleared land which they rented and worked with hoes. They raised a fair crop of corn and other stnfif and from that time forward they prospered in their labors and eventuallv developed the l>Iace into one of the best farmsteads in the commum'tv. There Jacob Cline spent the remainder of his years and reared his children, his death occurringill the late fi>rtie^. He was twice married and wa-- the father of the folh^wing children: Sarah C. l>irn June J_\ 1700: William, born fuly 11. 1-92; Samuel, horn .\ugust jd. \;')4: Jacob. July iS. 1707; James. b,,rn .\ugiist 18, 1799; Xancy. born Xovember 8. 1805: Pegg}'. June J7. 1807; Xicholas, born March 17. 1S09: Elizabeth, borvi March 11. i8ri: Catharine. Iwrn -March j8. 1813: Peter. Imrn June 18. 1815: Daniel, born Februar\- 11. r8i-: Anderson, burn Februarv [4. !8_'0.

Peter Cline. the subject's father, was Init a >""ung man when he accompanied the family to Indiana, and here he spent his remaining davs. His S(_-)n Evan was reared on the homestead in Clm-erdale township and secured a gwod practical education in the district sdiool- of the neighborhood. He h,i- always folhnxed the pursuit of agriculture and in this line he has achieved a dehnite measure of success. ?Ie has been conducting operations on his own account since about 1878. ha\ing started on forty acres of land located in the west part of the township. To this he has added by purchase from time to time until now he is the owner of two hundred and ten acres. In 188" he bought one hundred and nine acres where be now lives, to which he added an eighty-acre tract adjoining, having soM his original forty acres. Mrs. Cline aKo own> tweiit}- acres of land adioining. In comiection with the tilling ,)f the soil. Mr. Cline also gives considerable attention to the raising of livestock. in which he meets with gratifving success.

Mr. Cline married ^Margaret Coffman. and to them ha\e been born the following children : .\lva. Elmer. Cora. Rosa. Flora. Mvrtle. Retha ami Edna Cora and Retha are engaged in teaching -chooj. the former in Clo\-erdaIe township, thi- county, and the latter in Owen this state. In matters political .Mr. tdine a-si-nie- an indei)eiident attitude, believing that, in local elections at least, the best men shonld be selected for public office, re-^fardless of political affiliations. He is a metnber of the Horse-thief Detecti\-e .\ssociatic)!!. He gi\-es his sup]i(M-t to all worth}' mo\-ements fiir the public o-,^,-,,! and. because of his sterling qualities, he enjoys the respect and confidence of all who know him.

William S. Eurris

Among the progrcssixe and enterprising farmers of Clo\erclaIe township, Putnam county, Indiana, is numbered the well-known gentleman whose name appears as the caption (jf this sketch. A lifelong residence in this cuuntv has gixen him a wide acquaintance and wherever known he is lu'ltl in the highest esteem l)ecause of his sterling personal qualities.

William S. Rurris is a native son of Putnam county, his birth ha\ing occurred here on the rjtli day of P'ebruar}-, 1S63. lie is the son of James A, and .Mar\- .\. ( Pierc\- ) P.urris. The father was born in Bourbon county, Kentuckv. on a farm, and was a son of Hezekiah Eurris. The Burris family is believed to liave been ijf Scotcli r.n-igin and in the members of the family are to he found those sturdy (|ualities which luu'e characterized that race. Tames .\. Burris came to Putnam count} about 1S3S. being then in his young manhood, and shortP- afterwards he married Mary A. Piercy, a daughter of John Piercv. He engaged in teaching school in Jefferson tou-nship. this count\-, and met with proncumcerl success in this calling for a number of years. During thi^ period he was also engaged in agriculture, in which he was successful. lie and his wife were the parents of four children, namely: Tohn B., lames C William S. and P'lla. John B. is mentioned elsewhere in this work. lames W died in the spring of iSSO. William S. is the immediate subiect of this sketch. Llla died in !88j. at the age of si.xteen years. James A. Burris. the father (_)f these children, died in July, i8riO, at the age of thirtv-four vear-;: his wido>v i> still li\-ing and resides in Cloverdale.

William S. I'.urris was reared under the [larental rnni in Jefferson tin\n-hip. and recei\cd hi-- pi-climiuary education in the [lublic schooL of the township. Subsc(|ueiitl\- lie to.ik a co'iimercial C(;ur^e and :{]>>< the teachers' course at the (/entral Xormal ('ollege, at Dan\i]le. Indiana, and dm-ing the tMlldwiug tw year-^ he wa^ engaged as a clerk in a st<>re in Cloverdale. He was married in 1SN5 and at that time he bought one humlred and sixty acres of land located one mile south of Cloverdale, to the operation of which he devoted hi'^ energies until October. 1005. He followed a general line of farming, rai-ing all tlie cmp-; common to this section nt the cinuitr\-. also gi\"ing some attention {>> the rru'-ing ',{ tine li\-estock. particularh' Shorthorn cattk\ Dm-oc hogs, Oxford D'.wn dieep and Percheron hordes, in all of which he was very successful. He was enabled to purchase more land from time to time until eventually he became the owner of .seven hundred and thirt\- acres of -pjenilid land, all in one tract, besides which he and his brother own one hundred and sixty acres jointly. On the 5th of October, 1905, Mr. Burris purchased a large, attractive and comfortable residence in Cloverdale. and has since resided there. In all his operations he show ed himself to be a man of practical ideas and sound judgment and his success has been well earned.

On October 5, 1885. Mr. Burris was married to Margaret L. Home, the daughter of Thomas and Eliza Home, who were natives of North Carolina, but came to Indiana some years before the birth of their daughter, Mrs. Burris. To ]\[r. and Mrs. Burris have been born four children, namelv : Garnet K.. Maude M.. Dorothy E. and Marjorie E., the latter dying December 20, 1899, at the age of two years and seven months. The three older children are still at home with their parents.

Politically, Mr. Burris renders a stanch adherence to the Democratic party, in the success of which he is deeply interested, though he does not take an active part in public affairs, preferring to devote himself to his own business affairs. However, he was. in December. 1895, elected county commissioner, serving in this capacity six years and one month, and giving the ci'Ainty efficient and appreciated service. In e\ery sphere in which he has exerted himself. Mr. Burris has performed his full part and his efforts have been rewarded with a due meed of success. He is an ardent supporter of all movements having for their object the advancement of the best interests of the communitv and is numbered among its leading citizens.

Tack Huffmax

The representative farmer and enterprising citizen of whom tlie biographer writes in this connection belongs to one of the <3ld and well known families of Putnam county and it is a compliment honorably earned to ascribe to him a prominent place among the leading men of the community in which he resides. Edmund Huffman, father of the subject, was a native of Nelson county. Kentucky, where his birth occurred on the 6th day of August. 1824, being a son of Peter and Cynthia Huffman, who about the year 1836 moved from that state to Putnam county. Indiana, and settled in Washington township. Edmund married, April 5. 1849. Louisa Ann Rightsell, who was born .August 9. 1830. the union resulting in the birth of twelve children, namely: James Robert. Maria F... Cephas. Douglass. Ivan. Daniel V.. Lu- cretia A., General Jackson, Charles H., ^Margaret and Greeley R., of whom Cephas and Daniel V. died in early lite, the others growing to mature years.

Edmund Huffman began life for himself as a tiller of the soil and was only sixteen vears old when he left home to make his own way in the world. He worked for some time as a farm hand at five dollars per month, which he very generously turned over to his father, but after his marriage set up his domestic establishment on seventy acres of land in Washington township, which he purchased about that time and on which he continued to reside until about 1866, when he removed to the farm one mile south of Reelsville. where he made his home during the twelve or fifteen years ensuing.

In manv respects Edmund Huft'man was much more than an ordinary man. Owing to his limited advantages in youth, his education was entirely neglected and it is said that he did not learn to read and write until after his marriage. Notwithstanding this early neglect, he afterwards made the most of his opportunities and not only mastered the fundamental branches as taught in the subscription schools of his day, but developed extraordinary business capacity, as is indicated by the fact of his having acquired a large fortune, much of which consisted of real estate, owning at one time fifteen hundred acres of the finest land in Putnam county. He was a staunch Democrat, but not a politician, always kept abreast of the times on the leading public questions of the day and his opinions carried weight and commanded respect among his fellowmen. In 1898 he left his farm and removed to Reelsville, where he built a large modern residence in which he spent the remainder of his life in honorable retirement, and in which his death occurred on the 1 6th dav of September, 1900. Mrs. Huffman did not long survive her husband, dving December 7th of the same year, a little less than three months after his decease.

As indicated in a preceding paragraph, much of the wealth accumulated bv Mr. Huffman consisted of land which he had carefully selected with an eve to its future value. Two years previous to his removal to Reelsville he divided his holdings among his children, giving to each a good farm, retainino- for himself sufficient means to enable himself and wife to spend the residue of their lives in comfort and quietude. In all of his business relations he was the soul of honor and his influence was ever exerted for the o-ood of his fellowmen. His career affords a striking illustration of what intellio'ence, sound judgment and tact can accomplish in gaining success in face of opposing circumstances and his example may be profitably imitated bv the young man whose life work is yet to be accomplished.

Jack Huffman, whose name appears at the head of this article, was born September 6, 1865. on the farm in Washington township which he now owns and his lite thus far has been spent within tlie geographical limits of his native county. Reared to habits of industry, he early laid broad and deep the foundation for his future course of action and from his youth, being animated by a laudable ambition to become something more than a mere passive factor in the affairs of men, he has builded wisely and well and is today a man of progressive ideas and a leading citizen of the township in which he resides. While still a young man he took charge of the home farm, consisting of three hundred acres, and managed the same for his father until 1896, Upon the division of the latter's estate, there fell to him as his share three hundred and ten acres on which he has since lived and prospered. Two years later he erected the fine modern dwelling which the family now occupies and since then has made a number of improvements, thus adding greatly to the appearance and \alue of the farm, which at this time is one of the finest in the countv, surpassed by few in this part of the state,

Mr, Huffman is progressive in his tendencies and cultivates the soil according to the most approved methods in this latitude, realizing bountiful returns from the time and labor expended on his fields. Like the majority of enterprising agriculturists, he devotes considerable attention to livestock, being a successful breeder of fine cattle and hogs, the grade of hogs raised on his place being in great demand throughout the central part of the state. By continuous experimenting he has succeeded in developing a breed of hogs that are pronounced absolutely cholera proof and for these there is also a large demand, much larger than he can possibly supply. Mr. Huft'man has found it just as easy and far more profitable to raise thoroughbred livestock than the common inferior breeds and as a result he makes his own prices and never fails to receive them. His example in this respect has done much to induce the farmers of his vicinity to improve their breeds of domestic animals, and he is also free with his counsel and advice, which his neighbors have found of great practical value,

Mr. Huffman's financial success has been commensurate A\-ith the energy and ability which he displayed in the management of his affairs, and he is now independent, being among the solid m,en of his township and county as well as a public spirited citizen who manifests a lively interest in all that concerns the material and moral good of his fellow men.

On August 2. 1896. Mr. Huffman was united in marriage with Bessie Plummer, daughter of J. C. and Luellin (Shoptough) Plummer, of Washington township (see sketch of J. C. Plummer), the union being blessed with two children, Jackson Reese and Olive Lee. Mrs. Huffman is a native of Putnam county, born and reared in Washington township, and was twenty- four years of age when she was married to Mr. Huffman. She is a lady of intelligence and sterling worth, presides with gentle grace over her household and has nobly seconded her husband in all of his efforts to rise in the world. Mr. Huffman has kept out of politics and gives his support to the candidates best qualified for the offices to which they aspire, regardless of party dictation or influence. He enjoys in a marked degree the esteem of his neighbors and friends and is a true type of the enterprising, up-to-date farmer, representative citizen and intelligent, high-minded courteous gentleman whom to know is to esteem and honor.

Luna W. Seller

In studying the interesting life histories of many of the better class of men. and the ones of unquestioned merit and honor, it will be found that they have been compelled, very largely, to map out their own career and furnish their own motive force in scaling the heights of success and it is such a one that the biographer is pleased to write of in the following paragraphs.

Luna W. Seller, whose fine farm is located in Jefferson township, Putnam county. Indiana, was born in the city of Greencastle. this county, on the 2 1st day of December, 1868. He is the son of Theophilus and Myra (Crawford) Seller. Theophilus Seller was born in Greencastle. January- 21. 1827. the son of John F. and Rebecca (Sellers) Seller.

John F. Seller, one of the first settlers of Putnam county, was born in Harrison county. Kentucky. February 22, 1791. In early life he removed to Garrard county, Kentucky, where he married Rebecca Sellers July 24, 18 1 7. She was a native of Garrard county, born November 12, 1797. In 1822 he came with his family to Putnam county, Indiana, and settled on section 27, Greencastle township, later removing to section 21 of that township. John F. and Rebecca Seller had twelve children, of which Theophilus. father of the subject, was the fifth in order of birth. The others were: Delorians. born Januan,- 12. 1819: James W. P.. born December 4. 1820; Milton H.. born November 12. 1822; Columbus D.. born October 11. 1824, and died October 4, 1853; Bainbridge B., born August 18, 1828. and died August II, 1829; Louisa J., born February 14. 1830. and died August 25, 1846: John F.. born September 28. 1831, and died September 27, 1858: Rebecca Ann, born July 20. 1833, and died May 11. 1843; Western W.. born April 9, 1835: Elizabeth H.. born February i, 1838, and died May 17. 1843;

Tabitha C. born ]\lay 6, 1840, and Theopliilus Seller, who became a physician and was well-know n as a highly respected citizen. He died September 6, 1871.

The subject's mother was born in 1838 in Hendricks county, Indiana, and was the daughter of Moses and Melinda (Churchman) Crawford. Theophilus Seller received a good preliminary education and then studied medicine. He followed the active practice of his profession for a time, but finding that line of work detrimental to his health he gave up his professional work and thereafter applied himself to agricultural pursuits until his death, which occurred in 1871. Sometime after his death, his widow married Wallace Johnstone, by whom she has a daughter, Minnie, the wife of Robert C. Schell, of St. Louis, where she now resides with them. To Theophilus and Myra Seller were born three children, AValter, Jennie and Luna. Walter is engaged in the grocen' business in Greencastle, Jennie is the wife of William Ranclel, of Greencastle.

Luna W. Seller was reared by his parents and received his education in the public schools of Greencastle, also attending an academy in that city. After completing his education, he devoted himself to farming, with which he has been identified continuously since. In 18S9 he located on the farm in section 15. Jefferson township, where he now resides. He had formerly owned one hundred and ten acres of the old home farm, but now his holdings in section 15 amount to one hundred and ninety acres, nearly all of which is under a high state of cultivation and yielding bountiful crops. Mr. Seller carries on general farming, raising all the crops common to this section of the country. He has also given some attention to the raising of live stock, with considerable success. In 1895 Mr. Seller built a substantial and attractive residence and the property is otherwise highly improved, its appearance reflecting credit on the owner.

On May 7, 1893, Mr. Seller married Nettie, the daughter of Francis M. and Sarah E. (Sandy) AUee, who are mentioned elsewhere in this work. To this union has been bom a son, Hubert, who is now a student in the high school at Greencastle.

Politically ilr. Seller is a Republican, while his religious affiliation is with the Xew Providence Baptist church. Fraternally he is a member of the Knights of Pythias, holding membership in the sulwrdinate lodge at Belle Union. He is a man of splendid personal qualities and is public spirited in his attitude toward all movements for the advancement of the best interests of the community. Because of his genuine worth he enjoys the esteem of all who know him.

Joseph A. Thomas

The history of the Thomas family in Putnam county is coincident with much of the important and interesting history of this locality and in examining the local records we find that many members of this worthy family of the past and present have been prominent in various walks of life locally and have always discharged their duties in a manner befitting high-grade citizenship and in a manner that never failed to win the esteem of their fellow countrymen who knew them best.

Of this family, Elzeaphus Thomas should receive our first consideration. He was long a well-known citizen of Morton, Clinton township, and his death occurred September 22, 1889, when eighty-two years, ten months and seventeen days old. Elzeaphus Thomas was the son of Joel and Mary (Stiles) Thomas, the former of Bath county, Kentucky. Joel Thomas brought the family to Putnam county, Indiana, about 1825 and entered land in Clinton township, one mile north of Morton, and there spent the remainder of his life, dying at an advanced age. William Thomas, father of Joel, came here about 1828 and settled near Pisgah church, but soon moved to the Thomas farm north of Greencastle, on the place where H. T. Thomas was born. His wife, Fanny Butcher, married in Kentucky; she lived to be about seventy years old. William's sons besides Joel were Isaac, William, George and Lewis. Isaac was a soldier in the Union army ; he lived in Madison township until his death; William spent many years in Parke county, where he died; George also lives in Parke county, and Lewis married there. Isaac and Joel are the only living ones in Putnam county. The elder Joel Thomas' children, besides William were, John and James, who served in the L'nion army. Elzeapiius Thomas married Ruth .A. Ralston, who died Januan.- 22. 1876, when sixty-six years, five months and twenty-one days old. Mr. Thomas settled on the farm at the Morton Corners and in the fifties built the house that still stands there. Rudy Burkett having recently built on the site of the original house. Mr. Thomas began life with but little, but prospering, he added to his place until he became one of the well-to-do and influential men of this and adjoining counties, owning at one time nineteen hundred acres of valuable land, mostly near the home place, so that he could ride horseback over his broad acres and give it his personal attention. He loaned money and traded in stock extensively, keeping all within range. He paid as high as fifty and sixty dollars per acre for that which at first cost only four or five dollars per acre. He hauled wheat to Lafavette and sold it for thirty-seven an<l one-half cents per bushel. He was a keen observer, a good manager and was very' successful in business. .Although often importuned to do so, he would never hold office, being a Democrat, but no politician. His family consisted of eleven children, named as follows: John H. spent his life in this county, dying at the age of se\'entv-three years in 1903 ; Eli.?:alieth is the widow of George Frank at Morton; ^Margaret is the widow of George Cooper and is living in Clinton township; ^larthy Patsy married Richard Lloyd, lived in this county and died when past sixty years of age; .\manda Ellen, wife of Harry Randel, employed in the bank of J. L. Randel at Greencastle; James X. lives in Clinton township ; Joseph Andrew, of this review ; Rosanna married Ed. Perkins of Greencastle; Sarah Frances is the wife of James Cross, of Lebanon. Indiana; Milton E. dierl at the age of forty-se\en years, in this county ; AFary Augustus married Rudy H. Eurkett, of Greencastle.

Joseph Andrew Thomas, whose name initiates this sketch, was born .\pril 10, 1843, ^^ Morton, Putnam county, on a farm where he spent his lx>yhood days until the breaking out of the Civil war when he showed his love of country by enlisting in 1861 in Company B, Forty-third Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, serving with much credit through all the vicissitudes of his regiment for three and one-half years. He was captured by the enemy at Marks Mills, while with Steele, while on detail for supplies, and he was later sent to Camp Ford, Tyler, Texas, placed in the stockade there and retained eleven months or until exchanged in March. 1S65. He was compelled to march three hundred miles on short rations, in reaching Tyler. He relates that his Christmas dinner that year consisted of ox tail soup. When finally liberated he was much reduced in flesh, but he never regretted his service to his country.

He remained with his father until his marriage in 1867 to Nancy C. Burkett. who was twenty years old at that time, the daughter of Benton C. and Rebecca ( Xutgrass) Burkett, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work. She was born in Russell township, this county, and she was always always known by the soubriquet of "Xan."

After his marriage Mr. Thomas settled in Clinton township, near wdiere his brother James lives and there he remained for fourteen years, getting a good start, then bought his present excellent place at [Morton, and he bought a fann in Russell township which he operated very successfully. He received one hundred anrl forty-two acres of his father's farm and he has owned over five hundred acres in all at one time, most of which has been given to his sons. He has been an excellent manager and is regarded as one of the leading agriculturists of this township.

To 'SW. and Mrs. Joseph A. Thomas three children were born, one of whom died when nineteen years old, named Zoe; Alva V. owns one hundred and sixtv acres near Brick Chapel. Monroe township; he married Gertrude O'Hair and they have two children, Russell and Orville. Ottis M. has remained single and he operates the home farm. Joseph A. Thomas is a good Democrat but no politician, and he is known to be a man who is deeply interested in the welfare of his neighbors, with whom he is uniformly popular because of his honesty.

Johx W. O'Daxiel

The historv of the loyal sons and representative citizens of Putnam countv would not be complete should the name that heads this review be omitted. \Vhen the fierce fire of rebellion was raging throughout the Southland, threatening to destroy the Union, he responded with patriotic fervor to the call for volunteers and in some of the bloodiest battles for which that great war was noted proved his loyalty to the government he loved so well.

The subject is descended from sturdy Scotch ancestry, where the name was formerlv spelled "O'Donnell." The paternal grandfather, William O'Daniel. was a native of Scotland, while his mother was a native of German v. \\'illiam O'Daniel, Sr.. emigrated to the United States and among his children was a son, also named William, father of the subject of this sketch. William O'Daniel. Jr., who was born after the family came to America, became a shipbuilder in New Jersey, removing later to Pennsylvania, and eventuallv locating near Columbus, Ohio, where he followed the coopering business. In the fall of 1852 the family came to Owen county, Indiana, locating near Cataract, where the father had a contract to do the coopering for the mill there. In 1854 the family removed to Cloverdale and in August, of the year following, the father died. His widow lived to be eighty-four years old. her death, on May 24, 1909, having been caused by blood poison. Up to her last ilhiess she had enjoyed remarkably good health. William O'Daniel. Tr.. was twice married. Bv the first union were bom Elijah. George, Washington. Eliza. Maria. Priscilla. Rachael. Sally Ann and William R. The children bv the second marriage, which was to Emily Hoklren. were George W.. John \\'., Louis R.. Thomas J. and Uriah V. George W. was a member of the Fifteenth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry during the Civil war and died at Xashville. Tennessee. Louis R. died at Cloverdale in young manhood. Thomas J. resides at Cloverdale and Uriah V. at Greencastle. All the children were horn in Ohio excepting the last named.

Ji^hn W. O'Daniel was born June Ji, 1845, at the old home on the National road just east of Columbus, Ohio. In 1852 he came with his parents to Cataract. Owen county, Indiana. He spent two years, 1857-58, in Illinois. In August, 1861, Mr. O'Daniel enlisted in Company A, Fifty-ninth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, which command was assigned to the Department of the West, under Generals Pope. Sherman and Grant. They took part in the siege of Vicksburg, including the several severe engagements in that immediate vicinity and at Jackson, Mississippi, The regiment then went back to Black River and at Champion's Hill the regiment took part in a bloody charge that cut the enemy's forces in two. Mr. O'Daniel was present at the cai)ture of Vicksburg and saw Generals Grant and Pemberton together under the historic tree arranging the terms of surrender. The command was then sent to Tennessee and took part in the battles of Shiloh and Missionary' Ridge and others, followed which was the hard campaign down to Atlanta, many battles and skirmishes being engaged in on the way. .\fter General McPherson's lamentable death the company to which the subject belonged was assigned as a body guard to accompany the remains to the rear. The subject then participated in Sherman's celebrated march to the sea. assisted in the capture of Columbia, South Carolina, from which point he proceeded w-ith the regiment to Wilmington, North Carolina, where he received an honorable discharge, having served six months after the expiration of his period of enlistment. He passed through many severe experiences and hardships and proved a valiant and courageous soldier. At \'icksburg a shell burst so near his head that the concussion destroyed an ear drum, injuring his hearing.

In 1882 Mr. O'Daniel was seriously injured in an explosion of dynamite, suffering the loss of his right hand and wrist. Since 1880 he has been engaged in the real estate, insurance, patent and pension business at Cloverdale, in which he has met with a gratifying degree of success. In 1909 he received from the Home Insurance Company a beautiful medal, in testimony of the fact that he had been connected with the company for twenty-five years. He is a man of good business qualifications and sound judgment anrl is numliered among the leading men of his community.

Politicallv Mr. O'Daniel is a staunch Republican, though not an officeseeker. Under the old statutes, when one man could hold several offices at the same time, he served as clerk, treasurer and assessor of Cloverdale, but aside from this he has never been connected with public official life. Fraternallv he is a member of Gen. Frank White Post. No. 422. Grand Army of the Republic, at Cloverdale. Religiously he and his wife and their son are members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Cloverdale and take an active interest in its work.

Mr. O'Daniel has been married three times. In 1S70 he married Sarah ^latilda Brown, daughter of Thompson Brown, and to them was born a daughter, Eva M., who now lives with her maternal grandfather. Mrs. Sarah O'Daniel died on September 18, 1883, and subsequently 2vlr. O'Daniel married Minnie E. Horn, daughter of Thomas and Eliza (Douglas) Horn. A son, born to this union, died in infancy. The wife and mother died on ^lay 10, 1899, and on June 3. 1890, Mr. O'Daniel married Lucy Branham. daughter of William G. and Sarah E. (Hughes) Branham. William Branham was a lifelong school teacher and was the first superintendent of schools of Putnam county, later following farming. To the last marriage of the subject has been born a son. \\'illiam Wesley.

Henry Clay Darxall

A fine type of pioneer farmer, whose life covers practically the history of Putnam county with which he has been identified in a most honorable way, is the subject of this sketch. In the twilight of his existence, retired from the active struggles and hard work with which he was long so familiar. he is able to look back complacently to his boyhood days and contrast them with the circumstances surrounding the youth of the present generation. He is justified in taking pardonable pride in reflecting on the part he took in making modern Indiana possible and it is but a just compensation that he has lived to enjoy the comforts and luxuries that have come to the class to whicli he belongs. \\'here formerly he trudged through mire and miserable mud roads, he is now able to travel at swift speed over fine pikes ramifying in all directions. Instead of going miles for his mail, he finds it at his door every morning, delivered free of charge. Messages to friends, formerly delivered by slowgoing letters or uncertain messengers, may now be communicated by word of mouth to any part of the county by that marvelous product of electricity, the telephone. It is pleasing to see on^ of the old pioneers surviving in good health to get the benefit of the marvels, in wliich he bore his full part. His family originated in Kentucky, both his father and mother being natives of Mt. Sterling, in that state. Turpin Damall was born Augu.st 8. 1799. and Louisa Yeates. whom he married, was born May 7.

1807. They came to Putnam county in 183 1 and entered a section of land in Clinton township, worth then a dollar or two, but now commanding from one hundred and twenty-five dollars to one hundred and fifty dollars an acre. This difference in value of itself marks as no words could do the progress of Putnam county during the last eighty years. Mr. Darnall was a Whig, then a Republican, but the only ofifice he ever held was that of captain of militia while living in Kentucky. This fine pioneer pair had seven children, William, Nancy. Sarah. Livonia, James F., Henry Clay and Mary. The father died in August, i88r, and the mother on March 28, 1888.

Henry Clay Darnall. the only surviving member of his father's family, was born in Putnam county. Indiana, October 12. 1832. He is able to tell all about the old log school house, as it was the only seminary of learning into which he entered. He has pleasing recollections of the greased-paper windows, the hard slab benches and the puncheon floor, to say nothing of the rosy-cheeked girls, then full of laughter and freedom from care, but now, alas, all passed away. Mr. Darnall remained with his father on the farm until he was twenty-one years old and many was the hard lick he struck with an ax or mattock in getting things in shape to raise crops. The training was good for him, however, and he got the benefits afterward in life, from the practical knowledge obtained and the good health, of which the foundations were laid by his outdoor life on the farm in his youth and early manhood. He looks back with pride to the fact that he cast his first vote for the young Republican party when John C. Fremont was the candidate in the fifties. Mr. Darnall has always been enthusiastic in Masonry and has been a member of that noble order for fifty-four years. He belongs to Lodge Xo. 75, Free and Accepted Masons, at Bainbridge and has held numerous offices connected with the fraternitv. He is of religious temperament and a member of the Methodist church at Bainbridge.

On September 11. i860. ^Ir. Darnall married Elizabeth L. Bridges, born July 12. 1840. and a daughter of Charles Boles and Rachel (Lockridge) Bridges, both early pioneers of Putnam county. Mr. and Mrs. Darnall have six children: Flora E., born December 9, 1861, married O. M. Batman; Charles T.. born February 4, 1864. married ]VIamie Fry, and resides at Indianapolis; Lena R.. born January 6, 1866, is the widow of William R. Todd, who died September 29. 1906; Franklin DeWitt, born November 24. 1869, married Prudie Allen, and is in the general merchant tailoring business at Butte. Montana; Nellie P.. born April 22. 1876, is the wife of Charles Young, who is engaged in the handle factory business at Poplar Bluff. Missouri ; William C. born August 15. 1878. married Cecil Frank and is railroading at Kansas Citv. Missouri.

]Mr. Darnall is a well preserved man, of good health and still enjoying life to the full. At one time he owned three hundred forty acres of land, but has disposed of most of this and now retains only a fine farm of seventy acres. Though practically retired, he still keeps an eye on farming matters and insists that everything shall be run in shipshape. He is one of the type that make a good model for the imitation of the rising generation, who may learn from him the value of sobriety, industry and the painstaking care for details without which there can be no permanent success in business.

The Rissler Faahly

This prominent old family has been so closely identified with the settlement and development of certain parts of Putnam county that the histon*- ot one is pretty much the history of both. The Risslers are of German origin and were first represented in the United States by an immigrant from the Fatherland who settled many years ago among the Blue Ridge mountains of Virginia, where he established a home and reared a family of five sons and two daughters, all but two of whom lived and died among the rugged scenes of their native state.

William Rissler, the son who left the Virginia homestead and came to Indiana, was bom October 12, 1797, and when a young man married Susan Boone, a sister of the noted hunter and pioneer, Daniel Boone, who figured so prominently in the early annals of Kentucky and elsewhere on the frontier. A sister of William Rissler became the wife of Squire Boone. Daniel's brother, who took an active part in the history of southern Indiana and Kentucky and later \\ent to Iowa, locating on the present site of Boonesboro where his son, Tyler Boone, and a daughter. Myrtle, still reside.

William Rissler came to Putnam county in 1S25 and purchased from the go\ernment the tract of land in Washington township now owned by his grandson. George Rissler, riding to Vincennes to make the entry and receiving a patent bearing the signature of John Ouincy Adams, President of the United States. Later, in 183 1. he entered land adjoining his original purchase and in 1838 he purchased a third tract in the same locality, the patent for which was signed by President Van Buren. William Rissler was a miller by trade and shortly after settling in Putnam county he erected a mill on Walnut creek, near what is known as the Hufifman Bridge, and it was greatly prized by the community, he operating this mill for a number of years with gratifying sue- cess. In due time he cleared and improved a good farm and became one of the leading men of the township in which he lived, having always taken an active part in the development of the country- and used his influence for the social and moral ad\ancement of his neighborhood. In his old age he turned his business over to his son Moses and spent the last few years of his life at the home of his daughter, dying in the month of February, 1884: his wife, who was born October 24. 1802. departed this life in October, 1885.

The following are the names of the children of William and Susan Rissler : Hiram, who died in 1875: Phoebe Ann, wife of Robert Rollins, both deceased: George, who lives in Wayne county, Iowa, aged eighty years; Harriet, \viflow of the late Joseph Rissler, lives in Washington township, ha\ing reached the age of seventy-eight : Lewis, lives in Brown county, Iowa : John T., a resident of Washington township, Putnam county, and Moses, whose birth occurred at the family homestead March 14, 1839. During the father's last illness Moses, the youngest son of the family, looked after his father's comfort and interests and after his death took charge of the farm, which he managed so efficiently that within a comparatively brief period all indebtedness against the estate was settled and its affairs satisfactorily adjusted. Subsequently he paid off the heirs and in due time became owner of the farm which, as already indicated, is now in possession of his son, George Rissler. one of the leading agriculturists of the township.

Afoses E. Rissler was reared on the above farm, receiveel his educational training in the public schools and on attaining his majority began tilling the soil upon his own responsibility, which honorable calling he followed with success and profit the remainder of his days. Louisa Pallom, whom he married in his young manhood, was born July 24, 1845, in Ohio and at the age of two years was brought to Indiana by her parents, Joseph and Lydia (Trie) Pallom, and grew to maturity in Clay county.

About the vear 1884 Mr. Rissler moved to the farm in Washington township where his son Morton now lives, having previously purchased other lands in the county, including what is known as the Rollings farm, also a tract of one hundred sixtv acres of bottom land, to which he afterwards moved and on which he continued to live and prosper until his death, in the month of July, 1905. His widow, who still makes her home in Washington township, is an estimable and popular lady whose high character and beautiful life have won the lasting friendship of those among whom her lot has been cast.

}ifo.ses B. and Louisa Rissler had four children, George, the oldest, who is living on the family homestead, ^forton L. : Emma, who married E. P. Aker. of Washington township, and Rosa, the wife of Clarence Wright, who resides near Bis: Walnut church.

Morton L. Rissler was born September 15, 1866, and spent his early life amid the healthful influence and excellent discipline of the country and while still a mere lad became familiar with the rugged duties of the farm. He remained at home until his twenty-fourth year, at which time he chose a companion and helpmeet in the person of Maggie Huffman, with whom he was united in the bonds of wedlock on the 13th day of October, 1889. ]Mrs. Rissler was born in Putnam county, Indiana. March 20. 1S70, being a daughter of Edmund and Louisa Ann Huffman, notice of whom may be found by reference to the sketch of Douglas Huffman on another page of this work. Securing seventy-five acres of the old homestead at their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Rissler in 1906 returned to the same and have made their home there since. Previous to that date, however, ]Mr. Rissler purchased other real estate in various parts of the county and at the death of his wife's father he came into possession of another fine farm of three hundred thirty-three acres, which he manages in connection with the place where he lives.

Mr. Rissler is energetic and progressive in the most liberal acceptance of the terms and as a farmer and stock raiser ranks among the most successful men of his calling" in the county. He has owned several farms at different times, but is now mainly concerned with the two above mentioned, which are about one mile apart and situated in one of finest agricultural districts in this part of the state. He has made many valuable improvements on his land in the way of buildings, etc., and cultivates the soil according to the most approved modern methods, devoting special attention, however, to livestock, principally cattle and hogs, which he breeds and sells in large numbers everv' year. The Rissler farm is pronounced one of the finest and most productive in Putnam county, its every feature indicating the presence of a broad-minded American agriculturist, who believes in the dignity of his vocation. Neither money nor labor has been spared in making the place beautiful and attractive, and in all the essentials of a desirable modern home there is little to be added. . ^[r. Rissler is a Republican in politics and manifests an active interest in the leading questions and issues of the time. In religious views he holds to the Baptist creed and with his wife belongs to the Big Walnut church, of which his parents were also communicants, the present building having been erected by his father.

Mr. and Mrs. Rissler have four living children, viz : Delpha Hazel, Clyde Hansel, Harlan Moses and Otis Herschel. Gladys }ilarie dying when two years old and another dying in infancy. The children are bright and intelligent and nothing is being spared in providing for their educational training, to the end that they may grow up to be an honor to their parents and a blessing to the world.

A. J. Owen

^Vhile success cannot be achieved without unflagging industry, the futility of effort is often noticeable in the business world and results from the fact that it is not combined with sound judgment. Many a man who gives his entire life to toll, earnest and unremitting, never acquires a competence, but when iiis labor is well directed, prosperit}' always follows. Mr. Owen is one whose work has been supplemented by careful management and today he is numbered among the successful agriculturists of the township in which he lives.

A. J. Owen is the son of George Owen, who was bom in Clark county, Indiana, on November 21, 18 jo, and the latter was the son of Levi Owen, who was born February 7, 1795. George Owen came to Putnam county in 1836, and lived here continuously until his death, which occurred on the 7th of October. 1903. After coming to Putnam county he was married to Margaret Stobaugh, a member of a prominent old pioneer family of Virginia who spent their first winter in Indiana at Indianapolis. They became the parents of four children, namely: Levi, .\. J., John F., and .Anna Eliza, who died in infancy. The subject's grandmother, Sarah Shaker Owen, was born on January 2, 1803, in Clark county, Indiana, in a fort, being the first white child born in the territory. The Shaker family was of German origin. Sarah Shaker was married to Mr. Owen in 1819 and their marriage was blessed with ten children, namely: George. Rachael, Mordecai, Sarah, Levi, Elizabeth, Hugh, Mary, Indiana, Evan, all of whom grew to mature years. Levi, while on a trip with his father, was bitten by a dog, from the effects of which he died after his return home. Evan left home at the age of si.xteen years, about the opening of the Civil war, and has not been heard from since. The members of this family are now all deceased excepting Mordecai, who resides at Lebanon, Boone county, Indiana, being now eighty-five years old. '

The subject of this sketch was born .'Vpril 16, 1856, and was reared under the parental roof. He secured his preliminary education in the public schools, supplementing this by attendance at a normal school at Ladoga, thus acquiring a sound, practical education. Since reaching manhood Mr. Owen has given his attention mainly to agriculture. He also served as secretary of the Farmers' Co-operative Insurance Company. It is as a husbandman, however, that Mr. Owen has achieved his greatest success and among the farmers of Floyd township he occupies a conspicuous position. His farm is well improved and has been maintained at a higli standard of productivity, the property being also well improved in every respect. Mr. Owen is progressive in his methods, keeping in touch with the most advanced ideas relating to the science of agriculture, consequently he is able to realize handsome returns for the labor bestowed.

A stanch Democrat in his political views, Mr. Owen has at all times given his party earnest support and in 1888 he was elected trustee of Floyd township, serving five years and rendering his constituents an efficient and satisfactory administration of the office.

On the i6th of September. 1883. Mr. Owen was united in marriage to Lydia B. Wilson, a daughter of Michael and Elizabeth (Black) Wilson, both of whom were natives of Kentucky. To this union were born two children, namely: Stella M., born January 28, 1884, and George M., born March 26. 18S7. The mother of these children passed away on the "th of August, 1907. She was a woman of many splendid Qualities, a faithful wife and loving mother, and her death was deeply regretted throughout the community.

Fraternally, Mr. Owen is a member of the Free and Accepted Masons, and is also an active member of the Knights of Pythias, holding membership in Bainbridge Lodge, No. 323. He has held all the offices in the last-named lodge and is also a member of the grand lodge. He is a Baptist in his religious proclivities. A man of splendid personal qualities, Mr. Owens has, because of his genuine worth, long enjoyed the respect and confidence of the people of his community and is numbered among its leading and representative men.