Randolph County, Indiana - Chapter 18: Personal, 1882

Chapter 18: Personal

ie the following article we furnish an account of various classes of persons- - officers, attorneys, physicians, and also a brief history of the press in Randolph County, with sketches of some of the men connected therewith, as also biographies of persons belonging to some of the classes above mentioned.

Recapitulation Senate

HOUSE (OF (REPRESENTATIVES: : Probate business was done at first by the Associate Judges, The following list gives name, residence and counties repre- | then by a single Judge, afterward by the Court of Common sented : Pleas until that court was discontinued, and since that time by 1816 - Joseph Holman, Ephraim Overman (Randolph), Jobn | the Circuit Court.

Scott, Wayne and Randolph. (See Judges of Court of Common Pleas, and also of the Cir- 1817 - Holman, Scott, Robert Hill, Wayne and Randolph. cuit Court.) 1818, 1819, 1820, 1821 - Supposed to have been represented JUDGES COMMON PLEAS COURT.

f ; , ; W. A. ; . Haynes, : 1825- - Daniel Worth (Randolph), Randolph and Allen. Since that time, probate business has been done in the Cir- 1826 - Samuel Hanna (Allen), Randolph, Allen, and all the | 44:4 Court

ORL Re bate Court had been), and the business of both was transferred 1827-28 - Daniel Worth (Randolph), as next above. eae Bee aehigh 4é-3al oti) te t 1829 - Lemuel G. Jackson (Delaware), Randolph and Dela- ton sher ponte Cours Ty tea are a ee

Prosecuting Attorneys

89 7A: by the court. After him at various times were Bethuel Morris, Ere emt 'Sane Raiuene cae John Gilmore, Lot Bloomfield, Oliver H. Smith, Amos Lane, 1835 - Eli Edwards (Randolph) Randolph. Charles H. Test, Martin M. Ray, James Perry, William J. 1836-87--Zachariah Puckett (Randolph), Randolph. Brown, Caleb B.: Smith, Samuel W. Parker, Jeremiah Smith, 1838-39 - Miles Hunt (Randolph), Randolph. pea oe Jehu T. Elliott, John Brownlee (up to Octo-

Hon. Leander J. Monks

Leander J., eldest son of George W. and Mary A. Monks, was born July 10, 1843, at Winchester, Randolph Oo., Ind. He attended the public schools of this county, where he acquired a good primary education, and in 1861 entered the State University, at Bloomington, Ind., where he remained during the school years of 1861, 1862 and 1863. He left the University in the Junior year, and in 1865 entered upon the practice of the law. He rose steadily in his profession from the first, and in a few years was called upon to fill honorable and important positions. In 1870, he was chosen Chairman of the Republican Central Committee, of Randolph County, and in 1872 was again called to the same position. In 1874, he was elected a member of the Republican State Central Committee, and again, in 1876, to the same position. In 1878, he was the Republican candidate for Judge of the Twenty-fifth Judicial Circuit, composed of the counties of Randolph and Delaware, and in view of his candidacy for this office, declined the position as a member of the State Central Committee. His nomination to the office of Judge of this circuit was the' spontuneous expression of the good will and confidence of the people of this district, and 'he was elected without an opponent. In the administration of this office he has proved himself a man of pronounced ability. He is prompt and energetic in the discharge of his duties, securing in the public business the utmost dispatch consistent with the court, he has won golden opinions from all classes, and men of aj) parties, and in his profession he occupies a high rank as a lawyer and Judge. In the practice of his profession, he has been associated with several gentlemen who are still identified with the bar of Randolph County. First, in 1865, he was associated with Col. M. B. Miller. This relation was discontinued some time during the year 1866, but re-established in the following year, and continued until 1871. In November of that year, he entered into partnership with Hon. X. 'L. Watson, with whom he practiced until July, 1875. He then formed partnership relations with W. A. Thompson, which continued until he retired from the practice to enter upon the-duties of the judicial office.

In his habite, Judge Monks is simple and regular, cordial and sincere in manner, gentlemanly and unassuming, and courteous to all alike, And while he has established an enviable professional reputation, he has, by his noble and manly qualities, won his way to the hearts of all good citizens, and is highly esteemed as a gentlemen of integrity and honor. He is yet young, and may reasonably hope, should life be spared, for still higher advancement, in reward for duties faithfully performed. He is a member of the Indiana State Bar Association, and was elected by that body as a member of the Committee on Judicial Procedure, to serve during the current year (1882).

On the 2d day. of August, 1865, he was united in marriage with Lizzie W., daughter of Alexander and Margaret B. White: His wife is an excellent lady, and shares with him the regard of a large circle of friends. They have a neat, cozy home on Franklin street, made happy by the

Moorman Way

Among the attorneys at the Randolph County bar, none; perhaps, was ever more wide fa bil tame tae Way, and none attained greater eminence jn the profession. He was born February 9, 1808, at Marlboro, 8. C., and in his eet 'ancy was throwr, to some extent, upon his own resources, as his parents died when he was tet young. At the age of eight years (1816), he was brought by relatives to Randolph County, Ind., where he continued to reside until death, which took place on the 17th of August, 1881. The only educational he enjoyed were those afforded by the early schools of this locality, which were extremely meager. Yet to these meager opportunities he owed only the beginning of his education. He was a celf-taught man; his leisure hours, long before he had entered an office or had thought of adopting a profession, were devoted to study and self-improvement. Before reaching manhood, he learned the art of cabinet making, and was ¢) in that occupation and that of a carpenter until 1888. In the spring of that year, he became a law student in the office of Judge Perry, at Liberty, Union Co., Ind. He entered upon the study of this profession with a mind well trained, and in the following year (1839) he was admitted to the bar at Winchester. . The conditions necessary to the admission of a law student in those days were much more astringent.than now, the applicant bein, ee to a rigorous examination. His license bears the signatures of David ore and Samuel Bigger, Judges of the Eleventh and Sixth Judicial Circuits. at he obtained a place at the bar at thé end of so short a term of study proves that he had improved well his opportunity, for at that period a thorough knowledge of the elementary principles of legal science was a condition precedent to admission. Of him it was said by one who knew him well, and had practiced for years in the same courts: ''As a lawyer he was self-possessed. and methodical rather than ive. At the first, he was inclined to skirmish, rather than to come into close quaiiers and grapple his antagonist, but when the trial became inevitable he contested every inch of the ground and exhausted every legal expedient. His favorite method of defense was to object to everything, from the filing of the complaint to the motion for a. new trial. In great caution, he often vexed the court with objections more technical than substantial. It was seldom that the mistakes of adversary escaped his notice, and he rarely yielded an aa when he'had once obtained it. His fidelity to his client was never dou '6 sometimes continued the struggle too long, for he never surrendered until he was-dverpowered. In. his nature - intellectual nature - he was essentially combative, so stubbornly so that he scarcely ever acknowl himeelf fairly beaten. While he yielded to the adverse opinion of the court or verdict of the 1%; he did so with the air of one.who felt that he was the victim of a wrong. © ever surrendered an etme he did so reluchear He was not an orator, but he spoke well and to the point. At times, he indulged in invective and tried There was a vein of sarcasm in most all of his forensic efforts. In his jury speeches he seldom touched the fountain of tears, but his pungent thrusts frequently excited irrepressible ter, and in making a mean action look meaner he was an artist of rare skill. He was strong in common sense logic, but his xs and study; he was a thoughtful reader; discussions of abstruse philosophical questions were highly instructive. In his later years, he was deeply interested in the subjects discussed by our modern scientists, particularly the origin of human life, its mission and man's destiny. He was f ar with the wri of Spencer, Tyndall, Huxley and Darwin, but he repudiated utterly the whole doctrine of materialism, and never wavered for a moment in his belief in the immortality of the soul. He believed creation the result of an intelligent cause. He was 8 member of no church, although his sympathies were srone 'y with the Society of Friends. In his personal life, he was pure and singularly free from the vices that have debauched so many of our public men, and we never heard a moral Spee breathed inst his name. He had weaknesses that greatly aralyzed the usefulness of life, but they are now forgotten; he had faults (end who has not?), but these are laid with in the grave." In early life, Mr. ay was identified with the Whig element in politics, and took an active part in the Harrison and Clay campaigns of 1840 and 1) But he was always intensely anti-slavery in his convictions, and in 1848 me in his adhesion to Mr. Van Buren and the Buffalo platform. He supported Fremont as his choice for President in 1856 and Lincoln in 1860, but never took an active part in a political Mery Souci after the war. He was fitted by nature and education to occupy legislative or judicial positions, but, aithoule frequently importuned. to do so, he never- pertitted his name to be used in connection with the candidacy for any elective office. He chose to devote his 'life to the practice of his profession, and by faithful and industrious adherence to his calling amassed a comfortable fortune; et he was never avaricious nor disposed to aonas wealth by exactions. He been known to permit a tenant to occupy 8 ~foe.years, without paying any rent, provided he would pay the annual taxes, ny an impecunious client has had reason to bless generosity. He was married, in 1883, to Miss Eleanor Powell, an estimable eae lady and a noble wife. e child came to bless their union, but death claimed it in its infancy, and in 1885 the dread presence again invaded his home, claiming for his victim the devoted wife whose love had been his stay and whose death left a void in his heart that was never filled and a shadow that followed all his after life. On the 20th of August, 1881, the members of the bar met to give expression to their respect for their distinguished associate, who, three days previously, had passed beyond the confines of time to the boundless shores of eternity. From the memorial address presented on that occasion we make the following abstract: '' By the death of Moorman Way the profession of this county hag lost not only its oldest, but its most notable character. For more than ears he was eee identified with the history of our courts and judicial proce: nge, and during al! this time there was scarcely an important 1 controversy in which he did not take a 1 part. He won a commanding position at the bar soon after entering upon professional life, and maintained it to the end. In learning, in ability, in fidelity to the interests of the client and all the elements that make the true lawyer, he was the acknowlpeer of his foremost associate. He was the contempo of Rariden, gore, Elliott, the Smiths, of Parker and df Morton; and now that he has followed them is worthy to have his memorial put beside theirs on the records of the court of which he was a member and.an ornament."'

Presidents, Board Justices Drainage Commissioners

In the annexed article, we give such of the Justices as we have been able todiscover. 'To find out the earlier ones has been a difficult task, and some, doubtless, have been omitted. They are given as much as possible in the order of service. No name, however, is given more than once, though many persons have served several terms.

Jonathan Green, in Green Township, served sixteen years. Thomas Hough, lately resigned, was Magistrate some twenty-five years. James Wickersham, John Johnson, William Hendricks, Jacob Elzroth and others, held their offices for many years. The last named was Justice of the Peace about forty years.

It will be no wonder if some of the names are credited to the wrong township, since, in many cases, no clew as to residence was to be found, except names of bondsmen, which indication might mislead.

It may seem strange, yet it is true, that to find who have been the Justices from the beginning isa thing hardly possible, at least without. more time and pains than we have been able to devote to the subject. For Township Trustees, see Education and Schools.

Nearly the entire number of persons named were non-residents of Randolph County. Only about six of them were residents of the county, and of those six, barely two are living, viz., Hon. Silas Colgrove and Hon. William A. Peelle.

Residents of the county: George W. Daly, Zachariah Puckett (1834), Jeremiah Smith (1837), Moorman Way (1839), Silas Colgrove (1839), William A. Peelle.

We give below the biographies of some of the persons who have been members of the bar of Randolph County, as also a list of those who are at present, or have lately been, resident attorneys, either at Winchester or at.other towns in the county. The list is as follows:

Among the lawyers prominent at the Winchester bar in former times may be named Zachariah Puckett, James Brown, Beattie McClelland, Jeremiah Smith, William D. Frazee, Carey S. Goodrich, William A. Peelle, Edmund B. Goodrich, John C. Goodrich - six of whom became Judges in this county of some degree. Six of the number are certainly dead, and perhaps'some or all of the

Before 1830, the resident attorneys of Winchester were very few, if any. Zachariah Puckett was admitted in 1834; Jeremiah, Smith, 1837; Moorman Way, 1839; Silas Colgrove, 1839.

Edmund B, Goodrich, Winchester

He was in business with his brother Carey, and they built the brick store on the north side of Washington street, between the livery stable and Main street.

He was a kind and estimable man, and was respected and beloved. He had a growing property and an active business; but about 1843, he suffered heavy reverses in pork transactions, and thought he was financially ruined. He had also a severe attack of typhoid fever, and his troubles and reverses caused him to commit suicide.

John Commons

John Commons was born in the year 1818, in Wayne County, Ind. His father, Isaac Commons, was one of the pioneers of that county, a plain, honest man, and a good citizen. He had a family of ten children, cf whom seven grew to maturity, and four still survive. John, the subject of this sketch, grew up like the average boy of pioneer days, getting a little education, by attending a country school in the winter, and working on the home farm during the remainder of the year. By diligent application to his leisure hours, he acquired @ more practical and comprehensive store of knowledge than the schools of that period afforded, and shortly after attaining his majority, started out to earn his living. For awhile, he taught school; later, he removed to Hillsboro, in the northern part of Wayne County, and was there engaged in mercantile pursuits, in connection with the harness business, for four years. From that place, he removed to Hollandsburg, Ohio, and was a merchant in that town for four years. Subsequently, he moved to Unfon Uity, Ind., and was engaged in the boot and shoe trade there from 1860 to 1865. While a resident of that place, he he was elected Justice of the Peace, serving two terms, or eight years, in that capacity. He established the Union City Z¥mes in 1878, and was its publisher and proprietor until 1877. He sold the paper in that year, and purchased the Herald of Winchester, removing at once to this place. Under his management, the Herald enjoys an extended circulation, and wields a very perceptible influence in the public and political affairs of the county. Mr. Commons has always affiliated with the Republican party, and his principles and convictions are faithfully reflected in the Herald. During his short residence in this community, he has become widely known, and is universally respected and esteemed. He became a Mason many years ago, in the lodge at Hillsboro, Ind., and has taken all the degrees of the subordinate lodge and chapter, and was the first High Priest of the Chapter at Union City. He entertains liberal views in the matter of religion, and is not identified with any church, though his parents were members of the Society of Friends.

He has been twice married; first, in 1846, to Miss Elizabeth Carlisle, who died leaving one daughter, now the wife of G. B. Beat, of Oleveland, Ohio. In 1860, he wedded Miss Clara Rogers, his present companion. Five children have blessed this union, viz., John R., Franky, Ally, Clara E. and Mary A, all of whom now survive save Franky and Mary A. His estimable wife isa lady of rare accomplishments, and has long~ been a pillar in the social world. A more extended notice will appear in a sketch of her life, which is here annexed.

But few ladies in this county have been more prominently identified with the temperance cause and other moral and religious interests of this community than Mrs. Commons, and none ever engaged in the work with a more unselfish

1826, in n County, N. Y., and is the daughter of Samuel and Ruth ee Her father, himself a native of Lincoln, N. H., was 4 lineal descendent of John of Litchfield, England, who perished at the stake during the persecution of the Protestants in the rei ueen Mary. From New Hampshire he removed to New York, locating in n County, where he married Ruth Saunders, in 1814. In 1882, he removed with his family to Ashtabula, Ohio, where he remained during life. He died in 1861, at the age of seventy-six years, his wife surviving him until 1876, when she died, aged eighty twc years. The father was a man of prominence ip his day, and was chosen to fill various responsible offices, both during his residence in New York, and after his removal to Ohio. Ruth Saunders, her mother, was of English descent, but her father was a lover of shes, and espoused the cause of the Colonists in the struggle for Independepee together with his four brothers, took an active part in the Revoiu lonary war. arissa, the daughter, passed her early life amid the scenes of the Western Reserve, enjoying a liberal education, She attended Ashtabula Academy, at Ashtabula, Ohio, and subsequently attended Grand River Institute, at Austinburg, Ohio. In 1850, she entered Oberlin College, at Oberlin, Ohio, sadualis from that institution in 1858. During her course at Oberlin, she had ta school, and spent one year at Mackinaw, Mich., recruiting her health. In 18 - , she left Oberlin to teach school at Richmond, Ind., and was thus engaged until 1860. In that year, she was united in marriage with John Commons. For the next three years they resided at Hollandsburg, Ohio, and in 1868, removed to Union City, Ind. Here, during s residence of nearly sixteen years, she was identified with the Sunday school and other benevolent work of the city, and in 1878, came to Winchester with her husband and family. At the age of sixteen years, Mrs. Commons united with the Presbyterian Chvreh at Ashtabula, Ohio, and in the intervening years has been a consistent Christian and an active worker in the upbuilding of the church and the spread of the Gospel. Her connection with the temperance work first began with the organization of the Temperance Alliance. She identified herself with pt Setar and was ones har prominent in the effort known as the "' e'' - taking an active part in movement, and adding the weight of her influence to the peaceful endeavors of the wives and mothers who constituted that organization, to remove the evil that menaced their homes. Since the close of the '"'Crusade," she has been has done much, by verbal and written appeals to strengthen the temperance cause. For several years she has edited the temperance department of the Herald, and although erty modest and retiring, she has delivered fablic addresses in this county and vicinity, in response to her sense of duty, in the interest of the temperance cause. And who say that her labor has been in vain? Gradually, but surely her cause seems to ground, while it is impossible to estimate one woman's work in this result.

In private life, and amorg those who know her best, Mrs. Commons is universally beloved for her able disposition and her uniform kindness to all. With the attainments secured by a thorough education, she combines the qualifications of a naturally superior mind, and is well quaited Uy nature for the position she occupies in society. Her family is somewhat noted for longevity - some of its members attaining advanced age - and we join in the hope expressed

The death of her husband and her other afflictions unhinged her mind, and she became insane, which sad condition has continued much of the time ever since.

She has been deeply afflicted, and her share of worldly sorrow has been very great, though she is 8 most excellent and exemplary woman. Her afflicted condition has gained for her the deepest sympathy of her friends and acquaintances. But her clouded sky will soon be made clear, and upon her night of anguish the bright morn of eternity erelong will rise.

(Mrs. Goodrich died in September, 1881, aged over eighty years, having had, in truth, a life of sorrow and affliction. But her sorrow is over; her affliction is gone; she rests in peace in the arms of her Savior.)

Carey 8. Goodrich, Winchester

He was a prominent merchant and attorney in early times. His mercantile business he closed in 1848, but he continued to practice as a lawyer through his life.

He was respected and influential, a valuable and worthy citizeo, deeply interested in the substantial welfare of the community, and earnestly active in every enterprise for its promotion.

Col. Isaac P. Gray, Attorney, Union City

Col. Gray was born in 1828, in Chester County, Penn. ; moved to Urbana, Ohio, in 1836; to Montgomery County in 1839; to Darke County in 1842; to Union City, Ind., in 1855.

He also raised and organized the One Hundred and Fortyseventh Regiment Indiana Volunteers, mustered in March 13, 1865, Col. Peden; mustered out August 4, 1865.

At the close of the war, he became a banker, organizing, with Hon. N. Cadwallader, the Citizens' Bank, of which he is a prominent stockholder and Vice President.

In 1866, he was candidate of the anti-Julian wing of the Republican party for Congress. Entered the law in 1868, and was State Senator of Randolph County in 1868-72, on the Republican ticket, of which body he took position as a leading member.

In 1872, he was appointed a delegate at large for the State ci Indiana to the National Liberal Republican Convention at Cincinnati, and, by that convention, was made the member, fo the State of Indiana, of the Liberal Republican National Executive Committee.

In 1876, the Democratic State Convention nominated'him by acclamation for Lieutenant Governor, aad he was elected to that office in October, 1876.

In 1880, he was a candidate before the Democratic State Convention, and lost the nomination by four votes, but was named by acclamation a second time for Lieutenant Governor

In the general Democratic defeat incurred in October, 1880, Col. Gray shared -the catastrophe. But, by the death of Gov. J. B. Williams, in November, 1880, Lieut. Gov. Gray was promoted to the position of Governor of Indiana, which honor he sustained with appropriate dignity, addressing the Legislature in perhaps the most voluminous message ever presented by any occupant of the gubernatorial chair to any legislative body.

Gov. Gray has two sons - Pierre and Bayard, who show tokens of decided talent, and will doubtless, at no distant day, succeed in achieving a distinguished reputation. Both have become members of the bar. Pierre is also a business man in general, and, in the summer of 1881, engaged in a carriage-making company, under the firm designation of Starbuck, Tritt & Gray, the capital stock being $10,000, and the number of hands to be employed, thirty-five.

Bayard S., in the fall of 1881, bought the office of the Portland Sun, the Democratic paper of Jay County, Ind., and seems likely to sustain the reputation and dignity of the establishment.

L. D. Lambert, Attorney, Union City

L. D. Lambert was born in 1827, in Wayne County, Ind.; went to Darke County, Ohio, in 1829; Allensville, Ind., in 1847, selling goods for seven years; Hollandsburg, Ohio, five years; Allensville again; Union City, Ohio, in 1839, and Union City, Ind., some time afterward.

He had the honor of being the first Mayor of Union City under the city charter, being re-elected to a second term, holding the position from 1875 to 1878.

Theodore Shockney, Union City

He was employed in hard farm labor during the summer, and during the winter attended the common country schools, and at sixteen years of age began teaching in the public schools, gaining, in due time, the reputation of a leading instructor in the county.

In the spring of 1872, he commenced reading law in the office of Hon. I. P. Gray, afterward Governor of Indiana, finishing his legal studics in the office with Hon. 8. J. Peelle, elected member of Congress from the Seventh District in October, 1880.

{In the autumn of 1877, he married Emma A. Keever, of Union City; and, in the spring of 1878, he commenced the practice of the law in that place, and in May, 1880, he was elected Mayor of Urion City.

At the nominating election held in April, 1882, Mr. Shockney received the Republican nomination for Representative to the State Legislature, by a good majority, over William E. Murray, the present incumbent.

The Plain-Dealer, the only Democratic newspaper in Randolph County, having been purchased by a company of Republicans in June, 1882, the name of the journal was changed to that of the News, and Mr. Shockney was assigned the post of editor of the paper under the new ownership.

Jeremiah Smith, Winchester

He moved to Winchester in early manhood, having taught school one term at Richmond, Ind. Flow he got his education is nowhere stated---whether by the light of pine knots, or in the forest log-cabin schoolhouses of that rude period, or in the woods, or in all these three ways combined. The truth (and the main fact) seems to be that he got it, und the modus operandi is little matter. And it is a somewhat remarkable fact that, in those rugged times, men made more of themselves, with the scanty means of improvement then at their command, than boys now do, with advantages and appliances for study and mental deyvelopment fit for the heir apparent to a throne.

It is an old saying- -'' Necessity is the mother of invention;" and still another is, '' Hunger will break through a stone wall; " and yet another, quaint aud blunt and homely, but strikingly true, '* Where there is a will, there is a way."

Doubtless he was '' hungry" for knowledge more than the starving wan for bread. He had the '* will,'' and nature before his resolute soul opened a rugged but a practicable way.

He studied law in Winchester with Zachariah Puckett, Esq., being adinitted to practice there in 1537. He was also employed in surveying the Kankakee country in about 1520-22, and perhaps elsewhere.

He was for many years Deputy Clerk, etc., in the office of Charles Conway, who was twenty-one years Clerk and Recorder of Randolph County, Ind. He has been. at different times, Deputy Sheriff, Sheriff, Prosecuting Attorney, Surveyor, Deputy Clerk, Judge of the Circuit Court, and for thirty years a practic. ing lawyer. He is said to have been one of the best Judges of English law in the courts of Indiana.

He was «a Democrat in politics, sincere in his opinions, and fearless and uncompromising in their advocacy and maintenance, and it is no wonder that, in the extreme heat and partisanship of his latter times, when great questions stirred the public feelings to their utmost depth, in the strong Anti-slavery and Repnblican county of Randolph, he should be subject to public obloquy and reprobation for his extreme political views and utterances.

He was honest and incorruptible, both in publie and in priyate life. Noman ever so much as breathed a suspicion to cloud or darken his fair fame in this respect.

He built the Franklin House, Winchester, about 1830; also a residence for himself, afterward - both of which are still good, substantial buildings, the first occupied as a hotel for years by Peter Reinheimer, and the latter now owned by Judge Silas Colgrove.

The ' Bee was the pioneer road for this whole segion. In fact, its track was the second of the kind in the State and the second to enter Indianapolis, then an unimportant interior town, now one of the grandest railroad centers in the world. The Ree Line was eompleted for use about July, 1868, and Union City forthwith began a brilliant career of activity and prosperity,

The creation of this city was mainly due to the exertions of the Messrs. Smith. and they were amply rewarded by the fact that they were large (and almost sole) owners of the soil on which the new town must be built; and hence the increase in value of the land became very great.

He wrote several works, a list of which is not at hand. Concerning Randolph County, he wrote '' Reminiscences of Randolpb County," and also '' Civil History of Randolph County," neither of which was ever published in book form. From these manuscripts of his, however, much of the information contained in this work has been taken.

William H. Smith, merevant, boots and shoes. His establishment was begun in 1859, and it is managed with ability and success. He has a wife and one surviving child. (She has since died.) His residence, on Columbia, corner of Oak and Hickory, is a splendid brick mansion, one of the finest in Union City.

John Dye Smith, jeweler, Union City. His business, too, is of long standing, having been commenced in 1855. His establishment is the leading one in that branch in Randolph County. He has a wife and two children, and has a fiue residence on South Columbia street, east side.

Mr. Smith's parents were consistent members of the Regular Baptist Church. He was himself identified with the Disciples, and was active in supporting that branch of the Christian body, being also an accredited teacher among them.

His sons, like their honored sire, are all active Democrats. They bid fair to take good care of the handsome property left them by their father, and to make it simply a basis on which each may build for himself a fair and sightly edifice of elegance and prosperity.

They are said to be, without exception, active, frugal and thriving, and to be making for themselves an honorable place among the business men in the land.

Mr. Smith was first appointed Circuit Judge by the Governor of the State to fill a vacancy, and afterward held the office during a term of seven years vy popular election.

He died in December, 1874. His age was not so great but that he might have lived many years longer, but his worthy and beloved companion came to a sad and sudden end by a fatal injury received at the depot of the Richmond & Grand Rapids Railroad in Winchester. Bya terrible accident, she was thrown beneath an approaching train, and both her lower limbs were severed from her body. She survived but one day, departing this life July 7, 1872.

Her husband was, as it were, prostrated by this fearful catastrophe to the life partner of his joys and cares, and never seemed able to rally his powers,.to overcome this sad calamity, and, in two and a half years, he lay down beside his beluved in the sleep that, upon earth, "knows no waking." They repose beneath the same monument, in the Union City Cemetery.

He had, during the maturity of his power, prepared a carefully constructed will, lovingly providing for a perpetual care of the tombs of his parents, as also disposing of his fortune in the interest of harmony, economy and thrift, strictly enjoining upon his large family, kindness, good will, fraternal affection, and moral and Christian virtue, and harmony and friendly feeling in the settling of his affairs and the distribution among them of his estate; and providing, moreover, that an iron fence, to be constructed around the tombs of his parents near the place of their pioneer settlement in this county sixty-five years ago, should be completed and preserved in perpetual memorial of their virtues, aod as a lasting token of filial affection.

Seth M. Whitten, Union City

Scth M. Whitten, though very young, enlisted in a Michigan regiment for military service during the war of the rebellion. He saw much hardship, suffering severely, and haying several narrow «scapes from death in battle.

March 25, 1865, though unwell, he borrowed a gun and went into action. Onthe march, he picked up a large hatcuet, which he stuck in his belt. This hatchet saved his life, for a broken shell struck the hatchet, knocked him sprawling and the gun from his hands.

During and after the war, his eyes were greatly diseased, and at one time he was pronounced hopelessly blind. He has partially recovered his sight, however, though it is not strong and reliable.

Mr. Whitten was a bound boy in youth, and had but little opportunity. In the army (a strange place, no doubt), ha accomplished much faithful studying, and, after the war, became a teacher.

He has succeeded, against almost unconquerable obstacles, in mastering the profession of the law, and, amid discouragements that would have crushed most men, he has pressed straight forward, in a ceaseless and by no meuns a hopeless struggle for success.

His record on temperance is clear and strong, pressing the fight where most fail, viz., in the field of legal prevention, giving, in that line, bold, energetic and valuable assistance in breaking the power of the cohorts of alcohol.

He took up his abode in Union City in 1875, and resides here still. He is steadily gaining in reputation and esteem among his fellow-citizens.

His wife was prostrated with severe sickness while he was absent on business at Washington, and, after lingering for some weeks, Mr. Whitten was summoned by telegram to her bedside to behold his beloved companion at the point of death, and in a few days he suffered the unspeakable affliction to close her sightless eyes and convey her mortal rermains to the home of her youth, where, amid the grief of sympathizing friends, her lifeless form was consigned to the friendly tomb.

Preston N. Woodbury, Union City, Ind

Residing near Union City, he became a member of the high school of that place, being one of the first graduating class, who completed their course in 1876.

His first employment after graduation was as book-keeper for Worthington & Fisher's wholesale notion store one and a half years; next as bdok-keeper for J. T. Hartzell, in his hardware store, three and a half years.

Elisha T, Bailey, Ridgeville

Elisha T. Bailey was born in Clinton County, Ohio, in 1821; moved to Warren County, Ohio, in 1824; to Wayne County, Ind., in 1829; to Green Township, Randolph County, in 1847; and to Ridgeville in 1850.

He read medicine with Stanton Judkins, of Newport (Fountain City), Ind. from 1843 to 1847, and has practiced from 1847 to 1881, having attended lectures at Miami Medical College in 1853-54.

PAUL BEARD, SR. (DECEASED). Paul Beard, Sr., was born in North Carolina in 1779; came to Randolph County, Ind., below Lynn, near Lynn Meeting- House, in the spring of 1817, having married Hannah Pearson in

He was anoted man in pioneer days, both as a physician and as a citizen, being upright, respected and trustworthy, and skillful ix his profession.

John E. Beverly, Winchester

The same fall, his parents set out for the Northwest, and, tarrying for awhile on the way, came forward in the spring with the company conducted by Paul W. Way, crossing the Ohio at Cincinnati on the ice.

As a child and a youth, Mr. Beverly was greatly eager for knowledge, attending such schools as came in his way, but using also every practicable means of self-improvement.

He was nearly grown before he ever saw a weekly newspaper. But the Randolph County Library was to his inquiring mind a priceless treasure. In that collection were Hume's Hngland, Josephus, Encyclopedia Britannica, Cavallo's Natural Philosophy, a small treatise on chemistry, Shakespeare, Milton, Pope, etc.

He says further: ''I had from boyhood worked much in brick yards, and had, little by little, taken to brick-laying, and become so expert as to be called for far and near."

But still he found time, amid the labors of the farm and the trowel, to read and to think, and to take an active interest in temperance and anti-slavery, etc.

During the winter of 1846-47, he attended lectures at the Ohio Medical College, taking clear and copious notes throughout the course, which notes he has preserved to the present time.

His father died in 1833, and, being the oldest son, he was obliged to care for the orphaned family, which he did for years, standing as a father to the fatherless brood.

Dr. Beverly, as we have said, was an advocate of temperance, having been for years, when a young man, Secretary of the first temperance society in the region, about 1835 or sooner. He was also one of the small and despised, yet energetic band of early

Dr. Beverly mentions, as a reminiscence of anti-slavery work, that a band of Abolitionists, amone whom were Fred Douglass, Charles L. Remond, Bradburn, James Monroe, ete., held a series throughout the country of 100 conventions, making the movement a grand success. In fact, the present generation have no idea of the stern and terrible earnestness of effort put forth by that devoted class of Christian men and women, the Abolitionists of the olden time. The sterling song, indited by William Lloyd Garrison, beginning, ** I am an Abolitionist, I glory in the name," fitly describes the whole brotherhood, and sisterhood as well, throughout the land.

But, though mostly forgotten by the nation at large, they have their abundant reward, the consciousness that the work on which they had set their hearts, is accomplished. The proud boast of the British poet,

"We have no slaves in England, the moment that A bondman breathes our air, that moment he is free; They touch our country and their shackles fall."'

So may tho strong and faithful, the firm and steadfast, the tried and true, throughout our wide-spread country, band together once more and continually to oppose the wrong and the false, and adyocate, maintain and practice, amid obloquy, opposition and scorn, if need be, and God so will, the right, the just and the true, until, as in the struggle of the olden time, now happily crowned with abundant success, the heroic combatants fur that which is good and holy shall see, from time to time, with joy unspeakable, victory perched upon their banner! Or, if, in God's good pleasure, any be called away while yet the battle is fierce and the conflict strong, may they close their mortal eyes sustained by an invincible faith that from the seed which, going forth weeping, they have sown, shall yet be reaped a glorious harvest!

Nelson T. Chenoweth, Windsor

Nelson T. Chenoweth was born in Darke County, Ohio, in 1837, being the son of Jacob Chenoweth, Esq., an old pioneer of Darke County, and residing still on the old homestead west of Nashville. He is one of a large family of grown-up boys and girls, who have all (or nearly so) risen to distinction.

He was brought up on his father's farm; became a teacher; studied medicine with his brother, John T. Chenoweth, then of Williamsburg, but now of Winchester; graduated froin Eclectic Medical Institute in Cincinnati in 1867.

He formed a partnership with Dr. Botkin, at Unionsport, Ind., which lasted one year; married his wife there - Laura E. Haines, daughter of Stephen Haines; came to Wiadsor in 1868, and resides there still.

He is a thorough Republican, a wide-awake and enterprising citizen, and an intelligent and faithful physician, commanding an extensive and successful practice.

Joel N. Converse, Union City, Ind

Joel N. Converse was born December 13, 182(), in Madison County, Ohio; married Ann Eliza Phillips November 5, 1840; has two children - Laura A., wife of D. H. Reeder, miller, Union City, Ind.; Lois R., wife of Dr. Flowers, Columbus, Ohio.

In business, he is a man of great activity, energy and enthusiasm; in social life, a warm-hearted, genial companion and friend; in politics, a stalwart Republican; in religion, he considers himself largely liberal; in family life, he is greatly devoted tu the comfort and pleasure of those dependent on him.

He is a strong friend of general and compulsory education, and an enthusiastic worker in the temperance ranks, and, in general, a sincere and active ¢o-worker in whatever seeins to him to be adapted to build up society and increase the well-being of the human race.

Mr. Converse has been largely favored and blessed with success in his efforts to gain property, and is understood to possess a comfortable fortune.

For twenty-five years, much of his time has been spent away from home, yet his home feelings and sympathies return all the more active for the deprivation he has been subjected to in this respect; and he looks forward to the time when the relaxation of business activity shall enable him more thoroughly to enioy the pleasures of an intelligent, cultivated home.

In the fall of 1880, Dr. Converse sold his residence in Union City - one of the most tasteful and elegant mansions in that place - und removed to Chicago. It was purchased by William Harris, of the firm of Turpen & Harris, grocers, for $10,000.

John Heiner, Arba

John Heiner was born in 1827, in Maryland; studied medicine in the University of Maryland, Baltimore, graduating in 18-46, practicing in Carroll County, Md., from 1846 to 1864; married Matilda Jane Kelly in 1850; has had five children, all living, two married - one son a physician.

C. S. Evans was born in Chester County, Penn., in 1832; came to Richmond, Ind., in 1837, and to Spartansburg, Ind., in i to Hollandsburg, Ohio, in 1857; and to Union City in 1868.

Ho, read medicine with Dr. Lawrence, at Spartansburg, in 1852-55; practiced at Hollandsburg, Ohio, in 1857-68, graduating from the Medical College of 'Ohio at Cincinnati in 1863.

He joined the One Hundred ard Fifty-sixth Ohio as Assistant Surgeon in the summer of 1863; had charge of the Cincinnati Barracks, and then of a post hospital at Paris, Ky.; rejoined the regiment in Maryland, and left the service, his time having expired and something over. His chief business has been practicing medicine, though at times selling goods, ete.

Dr. Evans hes a high reputation as a practitioner, as a gentleman and a citizen, and is reckoned to be an ornament to his profession and an honor to the community of which he is a member.

David Ferguson, Union City

David Ferguson was born in Philadelphia, Penn., in 1813, of Scotch parents; graduated at Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, in 1837; came to Butler County, Ohio, in the same year, and to Clark County, Ohio, in 1838.

His wife was Jane Van Sickel, and they were married in 1849. They have had three children. Two are living, and both at home with their parents, and both daughters, one unmurried the the other a widow.

Dr. webedion joined the United Puastgierien Church in 1929, and the Presbyterian Church in 1838. He was Deacon for twelve or fourteen years, and has been Ruling Elder fourteen years.

He has been President and Treasurer of Randolph Mutual Association at various times; joined the I. O O. F. in 1842; Grand Lodge of Indiana in 1856; Grand Encampment of Indiana in 1857; Grand Lodge of the World in 1879.

Thus it will be seen that he has grown gray in the service of his fellow-men, having been an active practitioner of medicine for forty-four years.

Jehu Hiatt, Winchester

Jehu Hiatt was born in Grayson County, Va., near the Goodspur Crossing of Blue Ridge on the New River, one of the sources of the Kanawha, in 1802.

He was brought to Clinton County, Ohio, in 1814, and to where Richmond now stands in 1815, before Richmond was laid out. That was done in 1816, and he attended the first sale of lots there. Richmond in 1815 was a corn-field, and Robert Morrison had a little store in the neighborhood.

He went to Knightstown in 1830, and moved to Winchester in 1833 or 1884, and his residence has been chiefly in the vicinity of that place ever since.

He bought forty acres east of Winchester, occupying it as his home for many years. Having sold it, he removed his residence to Winchester, where it still remains.

He married Sarah A. Thomas in 1828. They had no children, and his wife died in Wayne County in 1865, and was buried at Goshen Meeting-House, near M:ddleboro.

He was raised ona farm; worked at tanning and at shoemaking, and finally read medicine with his brother-in-law, John Thomas, near Middleboro, Wayne Co., Ind.

He was one of the early Abolitionists when that ' hated sect'' was 'everywhere spoken against,'' and when courage was required to face the storm of obloqay and of persecution and of addled eggs and of brickbats, coupled, moreover, with the danger, and the fact of fines inflicted and penalties enforced against the '' accursed few'' who had the audacity to hold to the faith and to practice the belief that '' all men are created equal," and that liberty, except for crime, is the inalienable birthright of all mer.

Dr. Hiatt, though for many years a widower, seems cheerful and contented, and appears to enjoy the time of old age that has slowly but surely crept upon him. His health is good, and he is vigorous and sprightly, though almost eighty years old, and it would be no wonder if he were to be spared to behold fourscore years and ten; and yet he may be called suddenly away from the scene of his earthly cares to try what may be in store for earthborn spirits in the unseen future.

Robert H. Morgan, Spartansburg

He was born in Wayne County in 1827; attended school at the Union Literary Institute. and at Frieds' Boarding School, and at Farmers' Academy, College Hill, Ohio, and at Wittenburg College, Springfield, Ohio. Studied medicine at Marion, with Dr. Lomax, 1850-51.

He married Mrs. Rebecca (Small) Davis, daughter of Joshua Small, in 1853. She was born in 1829, on the Silas Horn place, northeast of Arba, Ind., and died at Spartansburg in 1879.

His wife died in the fall of 1879, after a very lingering afflictive illness with the dropsy. She was an excellent Christian wife and mother, bore her painful sickness with exemplary patience, and passed to her heavenly rest leaving a fragrant memory to her family and surviving friends.

Robert J. Parsons, Union City

He came with his father to Deerfield in 1828 or 1829, and resided there till he became of age. Hethen left home and went to near Dayton, Ohio, studying medicine while there.

In 1850), he located as a physician at Union, Montgomery Co., Ohio; removed to Milton, Miami County, in 1853, remaining there till 1881. Inthe latter year, he returned to Randolph County and established a drug store at Union City, continuing also his practice.

In 1875, he was elected Professor of Obstetrics in the Eclectic Medical College of Philadelphia, which, however, he was obliged to decline on account of the health of his family. The college, however, continued his connection therewith as Emeritus Professor in the institution, which position he now holds.

He has been three times married- - Asenath Thomas, in 1846; Susan Dalton, in 1854; and Rhoda Jones, in 1880. He has had six children, only two of whom are living.

John L. Reeves, Union City

John L., Reeves is the son of James and Rachel Reeves, having been born in Darke County, Ohio, in 1827. He came with his parents, in 18382, into the woods of Randolph, settling in Jackson Township, near what came afterward to be New Lisbon.

His father built a cabin, not ut first entering land. In two years or so, he entered land, moved to it, "built a camp," and became an independent land-owner, lord of the manor and master of his own castle.

John went toschool three months when a lad, and his second term of three months was spent with his grandfather, in Delaware County, young John wilking through the woods, in his thirteenth year, to reach the desired spot, and returning in like manner to his home and to the farm work in the spring.

He stayed with his father till he was of age. However, he began to read medicine before that important event, lying in the hay mow for the purpose when his mates wero at their sports, and obtaining books from New York, under the advice of Drs. Downing and Miller.

He had been married, in 1844). to Angeline Milligan, who died in 1854. He had sold out and was all ready for moving to Towa when his wife was stricken down, and was soon laid in the cold and silent tomb, and his plans of life were frustrated.

At Chickamauga, he was wounded in the left ankle, which is still lame at times. He was also stunned by a shell, and supposed by his comrades to be dead. But, recovering from the shock, he was nevertheless disabled for three months. He came near being captured the same day; but was spared the horrors of Andersonville, and the perils, and perhaps the fact, of an awful death in that fearful prison pen.

His practice has been continued till the present time, except for about a year past, on account of severe sickness, from which he has not yet fully recovered.

Dr. Reeves married his first wife in 1849. She died in 1854, and he married again. His second wife was Esther McFarland, who is still living. He has had six children, four of whom now survive. Two of them were by his first wife, ani four by his second,

Dr. Reeves, in his youth and early manhood, possessed a remarkable amount of energy, and he has preserved his habits of activity to the present time, gaining for himself, unaided and alone, an honorable and useful position among his fellow-men.

James Ruby, Deceased

He studied medicine with his brother-in-law, and began practice at twenty; removed to Hollandsburg, Ohio, in 1850, and to Union City, Ind., in 1867.

His son Samuel is following the footsteps of his honored father, and, by industry, intelligence and integrity, he is rising to a high standing in his profession.

William J. Shoemaker, Ridgeville

William J. Shoemaker was born at Richmond, Va., November 18, 1820. His grandfather, Jeremiah Shoemaker, sold a large estate in Hanover County, Va., taking his pay in Continental money. It proved a total loss, and he afterward made cigar-lighters of the bills.

His father served in the war of 1812, at Camp Holly, on the James River, below Richmond, marrying in 1815, and moving, in 1824 to Columbiana County, Ohio, and, in 1837, to Randolph County, Ind.. not far from Ridgeville.

He had eight children, all grown, seven married and four now living. He moved to Kansas in 1858, and was killed by a ae team a few days after his arrival in that region.

VY. J. Shoemaker worked for his father in the woods till trent -two years of age, autonding. school in private houses and in '* greased-paper- window cabins."

In 1841, he entered Winchester Seminary, under Prof. Farris. He sold a little black colt to J ames Butterworth, which paid for board and tuition four months.

The summer of 1842, he cleared six acres for his father, took a colt for his pay, traded the colt for a yoke of cattle, taught school at Fairview at $1.50 per day, sold his oxen, and, with his

Prof. Ferris, needing an assistant, he employed Mr. Shoemaker, dividing the school and giving him half the work and half the pay during five months.

His next step was to Bloomington, attending the State University for eighteen months. He reached the Junior class, but quit for lack of means. Leaving the university without a cent, and walking thirty miles, he stopped and earned money enough to pay for a deck passage to Wellsville, on the Ohio River, walking thence to Hanover, Columbiana Co., Ohio.

He battled with life for four years, and, in 1858, '' put out'' for Kansas, having been married in Northeastern Ohio in 1851. In that far-off land, he buried, during the first eight months, a father and a sister.

He undertook farming, and had fine prospects till the drought ruined hiscrops. The middle of July showed a beautiful growth of corn; the month of August, nothing.

During the winter of 1859-60, he was a Clerk in the Legislature that framed the free constitution for Kansas, and voted itself down to Lawrence.

One of his sons was sick and helpless for many months, requiring ceaseless care and aid day and night. Mr. Shoemaker attended upon his son through all that wearisome time, taking, on an average, for sixty days and nights, only three hours' sleep in the twenty-four.

His life has been full of adventure and suffering, but hope and courage have never failed him, and his motto is still, as ever, "" Never give up; it is wiser and better always to hope than once to despair.''

H, H. Yergin, Union City, Ind

He graduated in the scientific course at Delaware College, Ohio, and at the Cleveland Medical College, Ohio, in 1864, pursuing the post-graduating course in the same school in 1866.

He is a member of the Medical Society of Wayne County, Ohio; of the Ohio and the Indiana Medical Societies; of the Randolph County Medical Society, ete.

Medical Societies

The Delaware District Medical Society (including Randolph County) was organized at Muncie, Ind., Tuesday, June 19, 1877, as the result of consultation upon the subject.

There was a fair representation of the various county societies. and by 12 o'clock thirty-eight physicians and three medical students were present.

2. On Officers (one from each county)- - Randolph County, W. G. Smith; Jay County, R. P. Davis; Blackford County, William Ransom; Madison County, Dr Young: Delaware County, W. J. Boyden; Grant County, none present.

Randolph Medical Socicty is auxiliary to the State Medical Society, and is governed by the code of ethics of the American Medical Association.

The members of the medical society comprise only a part of the physicians of the county, since they embrace what are sometimes called ''regular physicians," and not all of them, Any regular physician in good standing is eligible-to membership.

The Press

The papers named above have all been merely temporary except the Hagle, the Times and the Plaindealer, The latter is the only Democratic paper in Randolph County, while there ure five flourishing Republican sheets - three at Union City and two at Winchester.

The Times and the Kagle and the Plaindealer would all seem to have gained a permanent foothold and life enough to '' paddle '' each one '' its own canoe." The Times having attained its ninth, the Hagle its nineteenth and the Plaindealer its seventh year. The News has just begun.

bent on pushing boldly forward in the path to public favor, and, by energetic activity, to command the general approval. The Plaindealer, too, is plodding onward in its own chosen

The general growth of the community is shown very strikingly, anong other things, by the increase of the printing business. Thirty years ago, one press managed to get a meager support from the whole county and the adjoining region. Now, five permanent printing establishments tind yemunerative employment in Randolph County alone.

And it is, on the whole, an encouraging reflection that, thongh given somewhat at times, possibly, to partisan extravagance, and now and then to something like ungenerous flings at each other, yet the general tendency of their publications is for the better, and that their influence tends to discourage vice, and to encourage intelligence, and to strengthen morality and virtue.

Long may this become more and more the pleasing truth, and speedily may the defects and errors apparent in the methods of conducting them be fully and permanently rectified, and their power and efficiency become entirely and strongly promotive and productive of good throughout the whole community.

Winehester.- - The first paper in the county was begun in 1843, by H. H. Neff, at Winchester, under the name of the Winchester Patriot, which is published to-day as the Winchester Journal.

Several other journals have maintained a brief existence at the county seat. Among others, one or more Democratic presses have been established, But we have not in possession any reliable data of others besides the Jomrnal, the Herald and the Phantasmagorian, and hence further mention of them is omitted.

They employ a steam power press, 1 Campbell newspaper press, and a Peerless job press, and the machinery 1s propelled by a Brookwalter engine.

The Winchester Herald was established in 1876 hy the Rev. J. G. Brice, professing to be independent, though thought by many to do what is often the fact, viz., to possess Democratic proclivities: sold out after a time to BE. L. Watson, and by him changed in politics to Republican; by him solé again to John Commons, former proprietor of the Union City Times, in 1878, and still owned by him.

A feature of the Herald is its Sunday-school and temperance columns, under the care and control of Mrs. Clara R. Commons, the active and gifted wife of the editor.

It aims to be a live, wide-awake journal, and to keep abreast of the times in activity and enterprise. It is a peculiar feature of the ' Phantaz' that its printing, etc., is all done at Fort Wayne, some sixty miles from its office of publication. But that, in these days of railroads and telegraphs, is no drawback.

It contains the: news of the county and region, anda good portion of that of the world at large, and whether the mechanical work is executed one block or 100 miles away is no matter.

Ridgewille, Farmland, etc.--Some efforts have been made to carry on a printing press and a weekly journal at Ridgeville, Randolph County, but, thus far, without permanent success. What the future may have in store for Ridgeville, Farmland, ete., in this matter, cannot now be stated; but the past and the present must be mostly silent in this respect in their behalf.

In the month of November, 1881, a newspaper was set on foot at Ridgeville. Name, Ridgeville Leader. Proprietor, J. R. Polks. Date of first issue, Friday, November 11, 1881.

The author has an impression that, at some time not very long past, a newspaper was attempted at Farmland, but no special or exact information is in our possession; and, even if the impression be correct, the attempt seems to have been a failure, since no paper is issued from that village at the present time.

Printing Activity

For some years past, and especially at the present time, the activity of the press in Randolph is very great. All five of the offices are abundantly supplied with work, and some of them are greatly pressed with the demand for jobs of various kinds.

The growth of the county in this matter is truly amazing - from a single press in 1843, to five offices and six newspapers, with a great, number and variety of machines for supplying the vastly increased amount of printing demanded by the civilization of to-day.

In Randolph County the Journal at Winchester, and the Times, at Union City, are especially remarkable for their enterprise and success. The Times, in the spring of 1882, beught a building for an office, and also purchased and set up a steam press. But the others, too, do a good stroke of business, and have the confidence of their respective patrons and the public.

Bentley Masslich, Printer, Union City

Bentley Masslich was born in 1837, at Littiz, Penn.; moved to Bethlehem, Penn., in 1854; near Dayton, Ohio, in 1857; to Union City, in 1859; married Louisa Bachman in 1859; Peninnah Watkins in 1867; Lucia E. Farson, 1870.

He learned printing at Bethlehem in 1854-57; was a teacher, surveyor and book-keeper; sold books, iewelry, etc.; bought an interest in the Eagle in 1864; bought the whole in 1866; has ever since been sole proprietor.

Under the present management, the Kagle is the outspoken, fearless advocate of right, and the earnest opponent of wrong; is mild and courteous in tone, and singularly free from offensive personalities.

Mr. Masslich is an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church; for six years, has been Trustee, and for ten years, organist. He is Secretary of the Board of Trustees of three building and loan associations, of the Randolph County Bible Society, of Y. M.C.A., and of S.S. V.&E.L. (See Temperance. |

The Eagle has been active against lotteries as gambling, and forbidden by Jaw, and has lost some patronage by its course. The editor feels the comfort of an approving conscience, and good citizens fervently hope that he may follow the advice of Sumner to Secretary Stanton - ''stick" - and that he may keep on shying a club at the head of Satan wherever he can see it.

Mr. Masslich was in early times closely pinched, but he has become able to build for himself a good house and office combined, and is reckoned one of the substantial citizens of the town.

During the summer of 1881, the new institution of Marriage Dowry arose, the first association of the kind being formed at Union City, and for a time, these companies had an immense run, the community being apparently '' wild" after them. The Eagle, convinced of the unsoundness of their foundations, took

George W. Patchell, Union City, Ind

In his twentieth year, he bought that establishment as sole proprietor, though a mere boy without capital, making the purchase December 1, 1877. Since that time, he has paid for the offive in full, adding to its fixtures and implements about $700, purchased and paid for a fine lot on North Howard street, and erected an elegant residence thereon, the whole of the property+ - office, lot and dwelling- - being entirely paid for; and all this within less than four years.

Our young friend of the Times is thought by some to be rather "high-headed."" George may not, possibly, be wholly guiltless of the charge, yet his splendid success in so early youth speaks well for his ability; and increased age and more extended intercourse will doubtless smoofh down the rough places, prove him to be a man of sterling business ability, and bring to him still more abundant success,

Mr. Patchell has infused into the Times establishment a remarkable degree of enterprise, by which, in return, he is reaping a large reward in a splendid run of business and an overwhelming press of work flowing into his office in a constant and rapidly increasing stream.

He married Lillie Aun Butcher, daughter of John Butcher, Esq., of Union City, Ind., in December, 1880, and, in June, 1881, took their wedding trip to the Kansas prairies to commemorate the fact that the lust payment had been made upon their fine lot and beautiful new dwelling in the thriving city of their residence.

Mr. Patchell is a thorough Republican. He was a candidate for the nomination to the office of Clerk of Union City, Ind., in the spring of 1881. He lost the nomination by a few votes. The result, though naturally mortifying to his ambition, is nevertheless a decided advantage, since his natural forte is business, and to have such talents perverted to the channel of office-seeking would be an injury to himself and a harm to the public. However, there is time enough yet, if desire should run in that direction; and the old saying is, ''A bad beginning makes a good ending," whith, like other ancient '"' saws," has the merit of being at least sometimes true.

But why should we enlarge? Mr. Patchell has life before him, and the world at, his command - at least, so much of it as he pleases to subject to his wishes; and his friends hope and predict for him a career of distinguished prosperity and abundant financial success.

It is another old saying that 'It is an ill wind that blows nobody any good," and if is a fact that the whirlwind of ''marriage dowry,"' with eight or ten separate kindred associations in Union City alone, while it whisked so much cash out of the pockets of so many over-confident men and women, created such a demand for the printing of leatlets, etc., that the Times office, being ready and anxious for the work, was so crowded with the jobs of these and other insurance companies as to clear about $1,- 000 by the operation, which sum was, a large proportion of it, laid out in a steam press and engine, which is now in successful operation in an office on the ground floor, lately purchased, also, for the accommodation of his enlarged business.

Stephen M. Wentworth, Union City

STEPHEN M. WENTWORTH, UNION CITY. Stephen M. Wentworth has led a life of varied adventures, having been born at Chillicothe, Ross Co., Ohio, in 1836. His grandfather was a soldier of the Revolution through the whole war, and received a pension till the day of his death. He was born in about 1760, and was ninety-two years of age when he died. He entered the army as a drummer boy, in a company of which his father was Captain, and, the father dying at length, the son rose to be Captain in his father's stead.

Stephen's father, Benjamin S. Wentworth, was born in the year in which Washington died - 1799 - and died in 1849, with the cholera, being the father of twelve children, ten of whom grew up, and seven are living still.

Stephen M. remained at Chillicothe till about sixteen years of age; in 1852, entered the Enquirer office, Cincinnati, continuing therein till 1857.

He attended the Cincinnati Law School one session in that year. E Two years were spent in the office of the Philadelphia Hnquirer, at the metropolis of Pennsylvania.

In the summer of 1863, he went with a company of printers to New Orleans, doing printing of various sorts for the soldiers in the Union army. After five or six months thus spent, he became connected with the office of the New Era in New Orleans, being also reporter for the True Delta.

He was. three months in Louisville, six months in the Gazette office at Cincinnati, and, till 1875, in the office of the Hnquirer, in the same city.

He volunteered as a member of a ''gunner squad" during the summer of 1862, serving as cannonier in Fort Mitchell, among the Kentucky Hills, near Cincinnati, for six or eight weeks.

Mr. Wentworth is Democratic in politics, though not,a violent partisan. He is a man of active habits and genial temperament, being only in middle life, and may hope for many years of honorable usefulness in the service of his country, in the practice of his noble profession, which he has followed during so many years, amid such varied and stirring adventures.

The paper of which he is publisher has a good opportunity for success, it being the only Democratic sheet in the county, where four Republican weeklies find a competent support.

Democrats are not very abundant in Randolph County, indeed; yet still there are enough to furnish an ample support for one journal devoted to the advocacy of their principles and measures, and, if they do their duty as partisans, Mr. Wentworth will succeed in attaining financial success in its publication.