Shelby County, Indiana - Chapter 7: Compii.ed by William R. Norris, 1887 (part 2 of 5)

Alorristozvn. - Original town plat of Morristown was laid out by Rezin Davis and Samuel Morrison, May 3, 1828. Surveyed and platted by Meredith Gosney. It consisted of 48 lots 60x132 feet each. Streets sixty feet in width, and alleys twenty feet w^ide, are unusually broad width for alleys, which are generally one rod (sixteenand one-half feet) in width. Main Street w^as laid out on the Brookville State road, bearing north seventy-nine degrees w^est at that date. In the original town plat of Morristown, the broad twenty foot alleys were named as well as the streets, which is something "very peculiar; for instance, the streets were named Main, North, South, Poplar and Jackson ; and the alleys. East Alley, at the east part of town: Pike Alley, between Main and North Streets; and Maiden Alley, between Main and South Streets; North and South Streets were laid out running parallel to Main Street, which included the Brookville State road.

Rezin Davis' Addition. - Addition was made by Rezin Davis, July 3, 1840. It comprised twenty-four lots immediately east of and adjoining the original tow^n plat, surveyed and platted by Joseph B. Nickel. Nancy and Owen Davis' Addition. - Addition was platted by Eden PI. Davis and Owen Davis, with assistance of John Dargin, surveyor. It was acknowledged by Nanc}' Davis November 20, 1849,' and by Owen Davis, August i, 1851. It consisted of fortyfive lots laid off east of the Knightstown & Shebyville Railroad track. Wolf and Kinsley's Addition. - Made Dr. J. G. Wolf and Calvin C. Kinsley, June 26, 1867. It contained fort3'-five lots lying south of what was then called the Junction Railroad, now the C, H, & D. R. R. It also lay north of Xanc\' and Owen Davis's Addition, and between a county road on the east and the Knightstown and Shelbvville Railroad track on the west. The John B. Johnson's Additions. - First Addition, made by John B.Johnson December 23, 1867. Twenty-one lots east of K. & S. R. R. track, and south of Nancy and Owen Davis's Addition. Second Addition. - Made bv John B.Johnson, March 31, 1882. Fourteen lots east of AVashington Street and south of Johnson's First Addition. Third Addition. - Made by John B. Johnson, July 9, 1884. Twenty-eight lots east of Washington Street and south of Johnson's Second Addition. Martha J. McGaughey's Addition. Made November 8, 1886. Seventeen lots Iving south of the original town and between South and Johnson Streets. John B. Johnson's Second and Third Additions were incorporated and recorded by the town trustees of Morristown, June 18, 18S5.

One of the first merchants was R. A. Toal who opened a stock of goods in a log house that stood on the hill near the present site of Dr. Salisbury's residence. Soon a frame addition was built and the stock largely increased. This was for many 3'ears the principal business house of the town, and was occupied by many of the earlv merchants. Seth M. Cole and son, W. B. Cole, deserve to be named among the earlv business men. Joseph Stafford, Isaac Miles, Alex Hargrove and James Osborne complete the list of those who may be classed among the pioneer merchants. There was very little business done at this point until the Edinburg and Knightstown R. R. was constructed, in 1848; but no real impetus was given to the growth of the town until the completion of the C, H. & I. R. R., in 1866. Since that time it has grown rapidly and is at present the second in size and commercial importance of the towns of the county. Almost ever}^ branch of trade is represented, and the stores and business houses are large and commodious and would do credit to a place of much more pretentions. As a shipping point it is third in importance on the entire line of the C, H. & I R. R. Morristown at present numbers about 700 souls.

Wrenick, P. C; M. C. Burt, C. C, S. W. Deibert, V. C; A. F. Kinsley, P.; U. Stackhouse, M. E.; George O. Handy, M. F.; Isaac Kaufman, K. of R. & S.; Quincy Johnson, I. G.; T. K. Graham, O. G., and T. C. Wrenick, Representative. The membership is about sixty. The present officers are: S. W. Deibert, P. C. ; A. F. Kinsley, C. C. ; U. Stackhouse, V. C, and Vernon Johnson, Prelate.

Lodge No. 281, Daughters of Rebekah, was instituted August 1887, with fourteen charter members, but has in this very brief period grown to a membership of thirty-two. The officers are Miss Hattie Fox, P. G. ; Mrs. Frances' Deibert, N. G. ; Mrs. J Johnson, V. G.; Miss Fannie Buck, R. S.; Mrs. Hannah Justus, P. S. Mrs. Anna E. Williams, Treasurer; Mrs. A. Fox Conductor Miss Mar}- Sleeth, Warden.

GcIIcttsburgh. - In earh' days there \^-as a town laid out onehalf mile west of Morristown, next to Big Blue River, on both sides of the Brookville State road. It was called Gellettsburp-h, and Its proprietor, who had it surveyed and platted, rejoiced in the almost unpronounceable jaw-breaking cognomen of Augustus Eitelgeorge. He not only laid out an original town plat, but he afterward made an addition thereto. We are informed by some of the old residents of Morristown and vicinity, that in the early settlement of that region, Gellettsburgh was a formidable rival to Morristown; there were stores, blacksmith shops, wagon shops, taverns, and all the paraphenalia of a flourishing pioneer town on a well travelled thoroughfare. But the fates were against the pretentious Gellettsburgh, it went into inevitable decay, and naught remains now to mark its whilom whereabouts, except two farm houses. But its old-time rival Morristown, hung on to life tenaciously, and since the construction of the C, H. & D. Railroad, running through it, has prospered and grown to be a live, energetic town of not less than 700 inhabitants, and is the second best town in the county. Another illustration of nature's law, which decrees " the survival of the fittest."

jFairlaiid. - Original town plat of Fairland was laid out by Heniy Jenkins and Isaac Odell, October 21, 1S52. Daniel Bradley's Addition, made by Daniel Bradley, March 26, 1857. Isaac

Fairland is six miles by railroad northwest of Shelb^^ville, it is the capital and principal business point of Brand^^wme Township. It was founded about the time of the construction of the I., C & L. R. R. When that railroad was located and its building: became assured, the said Isaac Odell, who was then selling goods in Shelbyville, established a general supply store at that point, selling large quantities of goods to the hands engaged in the construction of the railroad as well as the neighboring farmers. Isaac Odell, after selling goods for several years, engaged in banking and established the Fairland Bank, a private bank, loaning and discounting money, shaving notes, etc. The people elected him Justice of the Peace, this turned his attention to the study of law; having abundance of means, he procured a good law librar}' and engaged in the practice of law, soon becoming the best Justice of the Peace lawyer in this part of the State. He was a formidable opponent in a law suit, managing his cases with such consummate skill as to be dreaded by the cit}^ attorneys, who frequently encountered him before Justices of the Peace. His ability before a justice of the peace was so great that the celebrated jurist and politician, Hon. James Hester, of the " State of Brown," pronounced him the " Prince of Pettifoggers," the Judge himself having been worsted in a forensic fight with Odell. He took an interest in politics and represented Shelby County one term in the legislature from 1869 to 1871. He practiced law to the day of his death, literally dying in the act of making a speech, with a law book in his hand, in Squire Mitchell Han's court near Fairland. Other leading merchants and business men in the early days of Fairland were Joseph D. and James Lace}', who sold goods and dealt in grain. Joseph D. Lacy is now a resident of Shelbyville and engaged in the United States service at the Shelbyville distillery; his brother James, still ' lives at Fairland and follows the trade of carpenter, contractor and builder. Captain Wiliam Judkins, who was in 1866, proprietor of the Fairland Mills, dealer in grain, flour, seeds, etc. He now resides in Indianapolis, where he has served as Justice of the Peace for some years. Whalen Gibson, father of C. A. Gibson, sold goods in Fairland for several years prior to his death. William B. Elder, who kept a general dry goods and grocery store, and who probably sold more goods and made more money in the same length of time, than any other business man ever did in the town. He died suddenly, many years ago, in Lawrenceburg, while on a visit to his relatives, seeking relaxation for the benefit of his health, but too late. Dr. S. J. Lewis, physician and surgeon, dealer in drugs and medicines: he enjoyed a very extensive practice, and though not a highlv educated medical man, seemed to be a born doctor, as his remarkable success in the " healing art '' abundantly evidenced. He died quite a number of vears since, leaving- a reputation second to none in the county as a doctor.

Bog'gslozi'ii.- - Laid out by John McConnell and Armstrono- Gibson in the spring of 1867. Acknowledged by Robert McConnell, administrator of John McConnell's estate, March 4th, 1869, and by C. A. (Armstrong) Gibson, February 17th, 1S69. Twentyfour lots at the intersection of the Fairland, Franklin & Martinsville R. R. with the Bluff Road. Range line No. 5 east, runs through the tov.'n north and south, and is marked variation 4° 17' east, by William R. Norris who surveyed and platted the town. This town is at the geographical centre of Sugar Creek Township, and is the precinct for voting, and the general point for all public business in the township. It was named in honor of Joseph Bo^^gs, one of the pioneer settlers who lived one-quarter mile north of the present town site. It is eight miles northwest from Shelby ville. The original Boggstown of pioneer days consisted of a general country store, post office, blacksmith and wagon-maker's shops, and an extensive tobacco manufactor}- about one-quarter mile north of the present town. The tobacco factory was established by the said Joseph Boggs, and manufactured all the tobacco raised in the neighborhood into plug tobacco ; tobacco at that time being a staple crop in that vicinity. The tobacco was peddled out by several large wagons which perambulated Middle Indiana, Eastern Illinois, and Western Ohio; it had a great reputation. The Boggstown brand was considered a guarantee of good qualities, and it met with ready sale. The earliest merchants were ; Joseph Boggs, William H. Manwarring, Hugh McFadden, an old Pennsylvanian, father of the three McFadden brothers, to wit: James B. McFadden, attornev, and William G. McFadden, M. 'D., of Shelbyville, and " Uncle " Hugh McFadden, a prominent farmer of Sugar Creek Township. They were succeeded by Simon D. Rohrer, John McConnell, Dr. James W. Smelser and others, of whom I remember the two Phersons, James and George, a Mr. Hamilton of Franklin, also the tirm of Thomas Keightly and James N. Judd, Dr. Stephen J. Lewis ,

William H. Mannwarring is remembered as the highly educated and polished school teacher, who had the reputation of having studied grammar and being able to teach arithmetic beyond the double rule of three, which at that time was considered the ne-phis 2iltra of preceptorial accomplishments. He was " high larnt for thein davs." But he soon gave up wielding the beech, not the birch, nor the ferule, for the " beech gad " was the teacher's favorite weapon for the enforcement of discipline in his school, and was promoted to clerkship in the Boggstown store, where he made himself so useful and such a successful salesman, that he became a partner, and sold goods for many years, until the building of the Madison & Indianapohs R. R., made him desirous of a more eligible location, when he sold his interest in the Boggstown store and migrated to Franklin, the county seat of Johnson County, ten miles southwest of Boggstown, whither many of his patrons followed him to buy goods, when thev desired a big supph' of family stores, and wanted to see the railroad. He sold goods for many years in Frankhn, dyinfj at an advanced ao-e, an old man in business, and a highly respected citizen. Hugh McFadden, after selling goods for many years at Boggstown, purchased a large farm about three miles north of Boggstown, to which he removed, and devoted the last years of his life to agriculture, and the improvement of his farm, which is now owned by two of his sons, viz. : Dr. William G. McFadden, of Shelbyville, and " Uncle " Hugh McFadden, as he is generally called, because of his many genial qualities, who resides on the old homestead. An influential citizen of North Sugar Creek, John McConnell, was a farmer, and served one term as county commissioner, he died in 1868, I think. Thomas Keightlev, after several years in the goods business at Boggstown, went back to Franklin, Johnson County, Ind., whence he came; thence to Indianapolis, where he lived, and was elected joint representative for Marion and Shelby counties. Stephen J. Lewis went to Fairland, where after a successful career as physician and druggist, he died full of years and honors. James N. Judd is still living' and resides at Fairland, engaged in tobacco culture. Simon D. Rhorer, in early days a successful business man in Boggstown, retired to his farm in the south part of the township, where he resided many years. After the death of his first wife beseemed to lose that shrewdness in financial matters which had distinguished him when younger, and in a few vears lost all his property, dying a very poor man. The Mr. Hamilton, of Franklin, was a decidedly dressy man for a country merchant; he sold out and returned to Franklin, where he engaged in business successfully: is still living, I think. The two Phersons - one, James, the elder, died at Boggs- town; the other, George, left there; I have lost all trace of him. Dr. James W. Smelser was at one time the most prominent citizen of the township; he had become quite wealthy for that section, by marrying well, and shrewd business dealing in selling goods and buying real estate, and the large income that accrued to him in the practice of his profession; he also took an active interest in politics, and was a good average stump speaker; he became dissatisfied during the war, sold out in 1S63, purchased property in Indianapolis, removed there, and after the war was over went south, where he died a few years later.

No place in the county, outside of the county seat, was better known in early days than Boggstown. It was situate on the Bluff road, eight miles northwest of Shelbyville, on the direct route to Indianapolis, and on a much better road in the wet season than the Michigan road. This drew a large amount of travel that way. I am also informed that the old pioneer firm of Joseph Boggs, Hugh McFadden, and William H. Manwarring, heretofore mentioned, not only sold immense (luantities of fjoods and ocroceries to the neio-hboring farmers, but sent their tobacco wagons as far north as Chicago and Milwaukee, on Lake Michigan, which were then onhflourishing small towns.

II 'aldrou. - The original town plat of Stroupville, now Waldron, was laid out by George Stroup, March 27, 1854. It consisted of twenty-four lots, and was surveyed and platted by John Dargin, who was then the county surveyor. The Alfred H. Raymond Additions: First addition, made as guardian, September 16, 1S55. " Laid out north of Stroupville." Second addition, made March 4, 1856, by said Raymond as guardian. Third addition, made May 10, 1864. Surveyed by J. rvl. Elliott, November 25, 1864, variation north and south four and a half degrees east. Fourth addition, made April 9, 1870. Milton Cofiin's Addition, made December 11, 1863. Surve3-ed by J. M. ElHott, November 18, 1863.

Waldron, when first laid out, was called Stroupville or Strouptown, after George Stroup, who owned the land on which the original town plat was staked off. It was in subsequent years changed to Waldron by petition of the citizens to the State Legislature. It is located on the line of the C, I., St. L. & C. R. R., in Liberty Township, about eight miles south of Shelbyville, and surrounded by a country of unusual fertility. Its history dates from the completion of the railroad and the establishment of a station. To George Wooden belongs the credit of being the first merchant. Re brought here a small stock of goods and began selling in the frame house now occupied by J. & K. Ra3'mond. The stock consisted of boots and shoes, hats and caps, dr}^ goods, groceries, notions and hardware. J. J. Curtis followed in the same hne and kept at the present site of Chapman & Laremore's store. Then came Robinson & Stroup, Raymond & Cm-tis, Thompson, Trees & Co., Hahn & McCain and Bryant & Row, which constitute the list of early merchants.

The first of the manufa'cturing enterprises was a saw-mill which, was operated very extensively b}- Messrs. Graw & Newton. John Farren became their successor, and in response to an almost universal demand for a grist mill Mr. Farren built such an attachment to his saw-mill and the two mills were operated more or less successfully until some time in the sixties, when they were removed from the place. Richey & Pearson began the manufacture of carriages in the fall of 1854, which developed unto a prosperous business, but was discontinued after a few years. The post othce was known and ofliciallv recognized as Conn's until about ten 3-ears ago when it was changed to Waldron. The tirst post master was T. K. Short, who served for more than ten years. Prominent among those who have been engaged in the practice of medicine at this place are: Drs. J. C. Richey, R. R. Washburn, C. B. Kennedy, D. C. Skull, J. S. Parsons and J. R. Jenkins. Waldron has grown very rapidly in the past few years and now has a population of about 450 people. There are seven stores, a saw and planing mill, lumber yard, two blacksmith shops, three saloons, a wagon shop, two restaurants, two barber shops, an undertaker shop, a hotel and a feed and sale stable.

Waldron Lodge, I. O. O. F., A^o. igj, was chartered May 20, 1858, with the following members: W. V. French, Greenville Wilson, WilHam Newton, Milton Corvin, Aaron Lewis, A. G. Thompson, George Canull, J. P. Knott, J. Deem and E. O. Wallace. Prior to that time the lodge had been working under dispensation for about six months with George Canull, Secretary, and W. V. French, N. G. Its present officers are: Joseph McCain, N. G.; J. I. Wharton, V. G.; E. L. Armstrong, Secretary; S. P. Stroup, Treasurer, and H. M. Cotterman, Per. Secretary. The lodge is flourishing, and it has at this time more than $1,600 in the treasury and thirty-eight members. Charity Lodge No. 52, Daughters of Rebekah is also in a prosperous condition with forty-six members. The Waldron Encampment No. 154, had for its first officers . L. T. Raymond, H. P.; S. P. Stroup, C. P.; H. M. Cotterman, S. W., and L. S. Young, J. W. It was organized May 19, 1880, and at this date has a membership of seventeen. Its officers are: K. H. Wood, C. P.; C. E. Cotterman, H. P.; Milton Corvin, S. W.; J. C. McCain, J. W.; H. M. Cotterman, Scribe, and S. P. Stroup, Treasurer.

The Masonic Lodge at Waldron was chartered May 25, 1858, with John C. Richey, W. M. ; John Lewis, S. W., and David W. Fossett, J. W. This lodge has now a membership of fom-teen. The room in which it meets is owned by the lodge, and it is out of debt. The otBcers at this time are : Ira A. Chapman, W. M. ; Israel Buell, S. W., and George W. Stroup, J. W. A lodge of the Eastern Star was at one time instituted, but never flourished.

jMiddlctozvn. - Laid out by William Raymond and Daniel French. Acknowledged by Raymond June 19th, 1829, and by French September 30th, 1838, consisting of twenty-nine lots laid off. Main Street laid out on the Michigan Road from the land east seventy-four and a half feet, from the bend northwest seventyone feet eleven inches. The other streets thirty-three feet wide; alleys ten. Joseph Cummins' Addition was laid out March 30th, 1838, by "Joseph Cummins as Commissioner of the Probate Court of said county, for the heirs of Thomas J. Euband, deceased." Surveyed by John Rendricks, January 31st, 1838, consisting of ten lots laid off north of the original town plat. Michigan road runs north 28° west, 100 feet wide, next to Conn's Creek on the west. The Moscow road in this plat is made a street forty feet wide. This is one of the oldest towns in the eastern part of the county, and prior to the construction of the C.,I., St. L. &. C. R. R. was a business point of considerable importance. The road was at first surveyed and graded through the town. The citizens, to meet the demands of a supposed increased business, built large and commodious houses, which, when the route was changed, depreciated at least seventy-five per cent, in value. The town has never recovered from the blow, and at present has but a dr}' goods, grocery, drug and milinery stores and blackshith shop. The Moses, Raymondses, Frenches and Eubands were some of the early residents of the town and vicinity. The first stores of any consequence were kept by Joseph Cummins and David Lovett. Samuel Baxter was an early blacksmith. Re also kept tavern. G. W. Bliss was a cabinetmaker. J. J. Bliss sold goods a few years later. About ten years ago a distillery was built near the town by Miller & Powell, but later the firm name was Powell & Feaster. The capacity is now about one barrel per day. Business has been suspended for the past two years.

Toil' II of Marion. - This town is the oldest in the county, it was laid out by John Sleeth and James Wilson, December 27th, 1820. It was surveyed by R. P. Wilson, a surveyor from Franklin County. Said plat shows that it was originally recorded January 15th, 1821, at Brockville, the county seat of Franklin County, which then included Shelby County within its territory. In 1876, a copy of the recorded plat of said town, was procured from the said record o f Franklin County, and the same was copied and recorded in our records. The town original^ consisted of 5^ lots, each marked 30-100 A., and a public square containing 120-100 acres. Said town plat was acknowledged by but one of the proprietors, viz. : James Wilson, January 15th, 182 1, before Robert John, J. P., of Franklin Count}^ And the acknowledgment of said James Wilson states, that each lot is 4 chains in width, by 8 chains in length, which would make them equal to 4x8 - 32 square chains - 3.2 Acres - 3 1-5 Acres. It also states that the streets are 2 chains in width, which would be equal to 8 rods or 132 feet in width. Rather large lots and wide streets. There is obviously a " Comedy of Errors " right here in this acknowledgment, for we presume that rods were meant instead of chains, and that the lots are 4x8 - 32 S(|uare rods - .2 Acre - 2-10 - 1-5 Acre in area in each; and that the streets are 2 rods in width perhaps. The variation of the needle is marked at 7*^ 20' which was probably taken from the Government Surveyor's field notes, at that time. wSleeth's full name is not given on the plat, but I have ascertained that it was John Sleeth, from the venerable Isaac H. Wilson, now living in Shelbyville, at the advanced age of eighty years, who was one of the original inhabitants of Marion, his father being the said James Wilson who signed the acknowledgment of the town plat before the aforesaid Squire, Robert John. The measuement of the west half of the southwest quarter of Section 9, in Township 13 north, Range 7 east, on which the town is located is on the plat, as the east and west lines of the half quarter section, each 40 chains - 160 rods. While the north and south lines are each marked 20, 50 chains. Furthermore, each lot on the plat is marked 30- 100, which is obviously wrong for 30-100 A. - 30 A. - 160x30 - 48 square rods - 3-10 - 3 acres, whereas 4 rods by 8 rods - 32 square rods. Hence, it appears that the lots are each marked wrong with 30-100, when it should be 20-100. In conclusion, we have this to say: We do not know who is responsible for so many errors and absurdities both in the plat and in the acknowledgment, but it is fair to assume that all such egregious mistakes have been cured b\' the lapse of time, it being now about sixty-seven years since the little town was located and laid out.

The inhabitants of Marion, in 1822, made a persistent effort to secure the location of the county seat on the site of their town, by urging upon the commissioners of location, the beautiful, high, and dry characteristics of the soil within and contiguous to the town site; but failed to secure it by reason of the more central situation of the site proffered by the county seat at the mouth of Little Blue

River, which was finally selected by the commissioners, and which became the present city of Shelbyville. A large portion of the lots, in the south part of Marion, was some years afterward vacated, and reverted back to the original proprietors or their heirs.

Braiidvzvine Tuzcn commonly called Pin-Hook. - This little town was laid out by Lewis Morgan, June 14, 1832, surveyed by Leroy Gregory, deputy county surveyor, April 9, 1832; acknowledged b}' said Lewis Morgan, August 6, 1832. Washington Street was located on the Michigan road, ninety-six feet wide. Clay and Jackson Streets, each thirty-three feet wide. Alleys only six feet wide. Lots live rods by eight rods - forty square rods - one-fourth acre in each. Four lots were laid off in a block, and the blocks from one to ten. There were forty lots laid off in low second bottom land. Said town is situate about one-fourth mile beyond the point where the Michigan road crosses Brandy wine Creek, and is about five miles northwest of Shelbyville, and about one mile northeast of Fairland, on the C, I., St. L. & C. R. R. The nickname or sobriquet so often applied to Brand3'wine Town, of " Pin-Hook,"' originated in this wa}'. The earl}' inhabitants were not only very poor - too poor to buy steel fish hooks, which in those da3^s were worth at least ten times as much as they are now, so they took the common brass pins which were much cheaper, and bent them into hooks, with which they fished. They were also inveterate fishers, and it was no uncommon sight to see both banks of Brandywine Creek lined ^\ith men, women, boys, girls, and children generallv, all busily engaged in fishing with pinhooks. Brandywine Creek at that time swarmed with fish, and an expert angler could soon " ketch " a mess of fish with no better implement than a pin-hook, for he did it with skill and sleight-of-hand dexterity, the result of incessant and persevering practice. Goods were sold here at different times in the history of the place, but in a business point of view it is of little importance..

Alount Aiihirn. - This town was originally laid out by John Warner, Christopher M. Allen, Daniel A. Allen and William P. Records, Januar}' 18, 1837. It consisted of thirty-two lots each 703/^x141 feet. Main and Walnut Streets each seventy feet wide,, other streets fifty. Alleys twelve. It was laid out at the corner common to four sections, viz.: Sections 17, 18, 19, 20 in Township II north, Range 6 east, variation 5'^. Two additions were made to Black Hawk, by William P. Records, Daniel A. Allen and Christopher M. Allen, May 15, 1839, consisting of sixteen lots on the north of the original town plat, and eight lots on the south. Klein's Addition to Mount Auburn was made by Jacob Klein and Phebe Klein, February 14, 1884. See plat book No. 2, page 28, consist- ing of six lots in southwest (juarter, of the southwest one quarter, Section 17, Township 11, Range 6; all lying east of Mulberry Street and north of the new school-house lot, each 40^ feet front by 237 deep.

Mount Auburn is situate at the geographical centre of Jackson Township, the southwest corner Township of the county, twelve miles southwest of Shelb3'ville, and five miles northeast of Edinburg, Johnson County, Indiana, on the I., M. and I. R. R. The original name of Mount Auburn was Black Hawk, so named after the celebrated Indian chief Black Hawk. The first goods brought to Mt. Auburn were bv a man bv the name of Huffman. His stock consisted of general merchandize, and was kept in a small frame house that stood on the same lot now occupied b}' Mr. Conner's business house. Mr. A. Barnett came soon after and opened a store across the street from Huffman's. Then came S3'lvester Delano and Caleb Sanders. Other earlv merchants were : John S. Campbell, A. B. Alsip, Obediah Sims, Joshua Lucas, Austin Ship and Edward Ferrell. In 1839, Joseph Hageman located his saw mill near the town. He sold in a short time to Delano & Sanders, who operated it more extensively, and in 1841, attached a grist mill, or more properly a corn cracker. Among the early enterprises of the town may be mentioned a tanner}^, which was owned and operated by a man named M. Reisman. The site of this tannery was a few 3'ards west of the residence of Mr. John M. Pa\'ne. The hides of the wild and domestic animals, were dressed and thus the local demand for leather was met. The business at present consists of two stores, a wagon and blacksmith shop. The town numbers about 175 inhabitants.

CyntJiiana was laid out by Andrew Sn^'der and Isaac Springer, August 18, 1835. Surve3'ed and platted bvj. B. Nickel same date. It contained fift3' lots arranged as follows: Twenty-five on the north side of Main Street laid off for Andrew Sn3'der and twent3'- five on the south side for Isaac Springer. Main Street fift3' feet wide, occup3'ing the county road running east and west; Walnut Street fifty feet wide, and North and South Streets each thirt3'- three feet. All alleys ten feet wide. The lots fift3^ feet front on Main Street 100 feet back. This village is situate near the northeast corner of Liberty Township, and Main Street extends east to the count3^ line between Shelby and Rush Counties. It is eight miles east of Shelbvwille, and about one-fourth mile east of the crossing of Conn's Creek, on the county road running west to Shelb3^ville. C3'nthiana itself is "set on a hill," and is remarkable for the high hills north, south, and west of it; whilst to the east is a broad level plain extending far into Rush Count3'. The post office at this place is called Blue Ridge. The land upon which the greater part of the town has been built was owned by Andrew Snyder. It was named by James Marshall in honor of his native town Cynthiana, K3'. John Youngman, was the lirst merchant and probably sold goods there as early as 1833. S. Robinson was the second. Then came John De Vaul, M. Crail, and A. Jerrell. D. Fox built a saw mill late in the thirties. The present business of the town is conducted by W. C. Yeager, I. W. Inlow, Jacob Querry, I. W. Marshall, J. N. Marshall, Aaron Austin, and James Stead.

Blue Ridgx Lodge, I. O. O. 7^, VYc. 55^, w^as established at Cynthiana November 22, 1877. The charter members were: M. L. Waggoner, N. G.; Arrass Jones, V. G.; E. T. Jones, Secretary'; S. H. Yager, Treasurer; Asa Forsythe, Smith Solomon, Stanfield Marshall and David Solomon. The present membership is twentytwo, and the treasury has about $900 on hand, showing vigorous growth. In the hall of the lodge hangs an old clock that has been marking the course of time for more than fifty years, and is still counting the hours with a melancholy tick that echoes through the lonely room. The present officers are : Pliny Hungerford, N. G. ; J. C."' Marshall, V. G.; E. W. McDaniel, Secretary, and S. H. Yager, Treasurer. A grange flourished here at one time and had upwards of sixty members. A store was kept by the society a short distance west of Cynthiana, but it was discontinued four or live years ago.

Dobhstozvn was laid out bv William A. Doble, October 3d, 1837. Surveyed by Joseph B. Nickel, County Surveyor, September 30th, 1836. See Deed Record G,' page 597. This town as laid off covered a good deal of territory, something over twent}' acres. There were sixty-eight lots laid off. Main Street was located on the Michigan Road, 100 feet in width. One-half the lots, thirty-four in number, next to Main Street, were each 4x10 - forty scjuare rods - one-quarter acre, and the other half, thirty-four in number, were each 4x8 - thirty-two S(|uare rods - one-fifth acre. The following was inserted just below the plat at the bottom of the page:

" N. B. - The proprietor of this tow^n shall not be compelled to open the streets and alleys in Doblestown, any further nor any sooner than the adjoining lots are occupied."

This proved to be a wise provision, showing forethought in the projector, for the town did not improve much. A tavern kept by Mr. Doble, and a woolen factory some distance below the town, on the western bank of Big Sugar Creek, constituted about all the town that ever materialized. The town site is now occupied by a good farm.

Pleasant Viezu was laid out by Alexander Means, July 6, 1836. Surveyed the same day by John H. Messinger for said Means. Recorded July 20th, 1836, thirty-one lots, all regular full-sized lots 4x10 rods - forty S(]uare rods - one-quarter acre, Michigan State Road recorded 100 feet wide, adopted as the main or principal street. Sycamore Street is spelled Sickamore on this plat. First addition was made September ist, 1837, and the record fails to show by whom. Sixty-two lots more laid off, all full lots 4x10, Michigan Road 100 feet wide platted as Main Street. All other streets in said town twent^'-four feet wide.

Pleasant View was in early times the principal town in the northwestern part of the county. The town began its existence as a trading point about the year 1835, when Frederick Thatcher moved a small stock of goods from the Means place, about onehalf mile east of the village. He is said to have been the first merchant in the township, and after locating at Pleasant View did a good business for some time. The town was situated on the old Michigan road, and was for many years a stage station, where horses were changed and the weary traveler could find refreshments according to his taste. A hotel was among the early institutions of the place, and the number was soon increased to two. Merchants multiplied and doctors grew plenty. Among the merchants, Adamson «& McDougal, Joseph Kennedy, John Stanley, McCracken & Berry, and others, were some of the leaders. The first doctor was a Scotchman named Hutchinson ; then came Tj^ner, Levitt and many others. Levitt was probably one of the leading physicians of the county. Until the building of the railroad, Pleasant View was a flourishing country village, and gave promise of a bright future, but after the completion of the railway, it gradually declined to its present condition. A woolen factory at one time did a flourishing business, and other small enterprises were commenced. The present and only merchant is O. F. Mann. The post office has been discontinued at that place, but under the same name is now at Brookfield, less than two miles away, upon the railroad.

Broohfield is a station on the Cincinnati, Indianapolis, St. Louis & Chicago Railroad, situated in the southwestern part of Moral Township, and near the county line. As a post office it is the successor of Pleasant View in name. It befjan its career as a tradin^j point upon the completion of the railroad early in the fifties. The first merchant was John Joyce, who remained until i860. At that date E. H. Stanley succeeded him, and since then has been in some manner interested in the business of the villao-e. There is now a good grist mill in operation. The building \y£is originally con- structed for a grain and warehouse, but in 1869 was converted to its present use. Since then Mr. Stanley has been identified with it as half owner. During war times two stores were in full operation with a fair measure of success. The present merchants are Means & Stanley, who succeeded Means & Brother. The last named were for twenty years the leading merchants. The town was laid out November 26, 1863, by Robert Means and Joshua Dearman.

Norristown was laid out by David Winterrowed, William P. Winterrowed, Joseph Winterrowed, and Henry Deiwert, November 22, 185 1. Fifty-four lots, Main Street running east and west on the section line sixty feet wide, including the county road and Main Cross Street running north and south forty-eight feet. The post office is called Winterrowd.

It is said that Henry Deiwert was the first merchant here as early as 1845, and that he remained about ten j^ears. About the 3'ear 1850, William P. Winterrowd began merchandising, which was continued several vears. The leading merchants have been: Sylvestor Tillson, David Tuel, Dr. V/. A. Bodine and John Newton. James Eason, the present merchant, has been there for some time doing a good trade. The first physician was James M. Norris, for whom the village was named. Dr. S. A. Kennedy is the only one there now. Farmers' Lodge, F. «& A. M., No. 147, was organized Mav 27, 1853, David Conger was W. M., David Flynn, S. W., and Jesse Moorman, J. W. This lodge is said to have a present membership of sixty-one. It is one of the most prosperous country lodges in this locahtv, and owns the building in which the meetings are held. The Grangers and Red Men formerly had organizations here, but both have gone dow^n.

Flatrock was laid out by Thomas Woolley, January 4, 1855. Forty-two lots laid out. Columbus & Shelby Railroad eighty feet\vide; Broad Street, sixty feet; all other streets, fifty feet; alleys, twenty finks wide variation, 5° 30'. This village is situated in the extreme southern part of the count}^ near the southwestern corner of Washington Township, and is on the fine of the J., M. & I. Railroad. It is a thriving little place and since its inception has been considered a good trading point, but has in the last few vears made more progress than formerly. The railroad gives it advantages the neighboring villages do not have. One of the most important business concerns is the grain elevator and warehouse conducted by John and V/ifiiam Nadings. It is one of the largest of the kind in this locality and a large business is carried on. Wesley Nadings and C. P."^Isley have general stores and do a good retail trade. Alvin Moore owns a saw mill, which he has conducted for several years with profit. D. A. Pettigrew and H. M. Connellev, are the present ph^-sicians. In addition to them, Drs. Norris, Free, Benham, Kennedy, L3'tle, Handy and Jones, have practiced medicine from this place. The usual number of blacksmiths, shoemakers and other mechanics are here, that go to make a thriving country town. The people are energetic, enterprising and law-abiding. There is in existence there a horse thief detective association that is somewhat novel in its workings. The members are united for the purpose of apprehending criminals and bringing them to justice. If they fail in finding the property, they contribute suflicient money per capita to replace it with another as good. It is practically a horse thie:^ insurance societ}^

Smithland was laid out by Hezekiah Smith, October 28, 1851, containing sixteen lots 4 rods by 10 rods - Y^ acre each. Variation of surveyor's compass needle 5° 45'. It was laid out on the line of the old Edinburg & Shelbyville Railroad, and its first business was conducted bv Austin Clarke, who opened a store here about the time of the completion of the railroad. Aaron Smith and Jesse Smith were also earh^ merchants. McCain and Smith built a saw mill there some time in the fifties. The present business is conducted by Dr. Smith & Son and Mr. Sloan. Hiawatha Lodge No. 193, I. O. O. F., was first instituted at Marietta but owing to the number of its members who responded to the call of their country and went to the war the charter was surrendered during that period. Early in the seventies a petition was presented to the grand body asking for a new charter, which was granted and the lodge established at Smithland, with L. Jones as Noble Grand. The lodge now own the property which the}^ occupy, and although not strong in numbers are prosperous.

Marietta out by James Wray June 19, 1S39; surveyed by Joseph B. Nickel, County Surve3'or. Twenty lots each 66 feet front by 165 feet deep, - ^ acre. Mam Street 66 feet wide, all other streets 33 feet. Allevs 12 feet wide. Plat of Marietta and Engler's Addition, by David Engler, August 11, 1849, showing sixty-seven lots in all. Church Street and Railroad Street each 66 feet in width. Soon after the town was laid out, William Cooper embarked in the mercantile business in a large frame dwellinghouse (which was probably the fi.rst built), that stood on Main Street, near the Methodist Episcopal Church. This was a grocery store. There was a great demand for a general store and in response to this demand S. Robertson bought a stock of general merchandise and began business in a frame building on Railroad Street. The later merchants were: Rush & Engler, Samuel Elliott,.

B. F. Sturgis, Thomas McGarren, Lafayette Davison, William Higgins, Harry Norton, "Bud"' Snapp, William Cochran, Abner Richey, Harry Hageman, Lewis Conner and James French. About the time of the completion of the Edinburg & Shelby ville Railroad, a saw mill was established on Blue River bv Mr. Heaston, but was sold to Samuel Elliott and a grist mill built in connection. An extensive lumber business was carried on for several 3-ears until the mill was destroyed by fire. D. H. Slagle may be be mentioned as an extensive operator in the same line. At present Hageman and Mile}-, John Beucheimer, John Pile, Samuel Dick, Jesse Sithen and Joseph Kanouse are engaged in the different branches of trade in the town.

jFotiiitainiozvii, laid out by Matthew Fountain, December 23, 1854. Twenty-three lots, each 5x8 rods - i^ acre. Railroad Street, including eighty feet belonging to the C, H. & D. Railroad, formerly called the Junction Railroad, is 120 feet wide; Main and Hill Streets, thirty-three feet wide: allevs, one rod wide. Milbourn's Addition, by Richard Milbourn, January i, 1868. Fiftvseven lots north of the original plat and east of the Greenfield road. White Fountaintown was not laid out until 1854; there had been several houses erected and some business done prior to that time. The Fountains and Benjamin Freeman were among the early merchants. The town grew slowly until 1867, the date of the completion of the Cincinnati, Hamilton & Indianapolis Railroad, when it began a new life, and at present has a population of probably 350 people. The various departments of business are at present represented as follows: General stores, J. S. Smith and J. E. Campbell; groceries, Marion Campbell: notions, E. T. J. Jorden; agricultural implements, Meyers & Jorden: pump factory, F. M. Ayers & Son; tile factory and saw mill, J. W. Draper; grist mill, Clark Macy; blacksmiths, Kroening & Fout and Coleman Lisher. The only secret order in the town is the Knights of Pythias, which was instituted August 23, 1887, having been in existance less than one month.

Gwynneville was laid out by Alexander D. Pollitt, January 25, 1881. "Pollitt's First Addition - May 20, 1881 - Recorded March II, 1882. Surveyed by Charles F. Webster, County Surveyor. It contains 34 lots, most of them 60x120 feet. Alleys 16^ feet. Main Street, on the Brookville State road is 60 feet wide. All other streets, 50 feet, except West Street, 30 feet. Main Street runs north 75° west. This town was named in honor of O'Brien Gwynne, a distinguished merchant and business man of Carthage, Rush County, Ind., who owned large tracts of land in the vicinity.

The first merchant was Warren King, who commenced selling goods, October, 1881; Second was William M. Swain and Robert Meredith, partners; Third, W. W. Wilcoxen and William Leism-e, and J. E. Earnest, first blacksmith. The present business: Warren King, general merchandise; A. W. Swain, general merchandise; Wortman & Leisure, implements and hardware ; F. W. Ruse}', tile and brick; M. M. Hacket, saw mills; Frank Conrad, blacksmith,

Frceport was laid out by Ira Bailey, Alexander Rittenhouse and John McCormick, March 17, 1836. Surveyed by Joseph B. Nickel, County Surveyor, March 3, 1836. Also acknowledged by Hopkins Harris " as far as his land comes into the said plat, and wishes the same to go to the record," April 25, 1836. On the line between Sections 14 and 15, Township 14 north, Range 7 east. Twenty-eight lots laid off. Main Street, located on the public road running north and south on the said section line 40 feet wide; variation 5'' 45'. Baile3'"s Addition to Freeport. By Ira Bailey, May 7, 1838. Surveyed by Joseph B. Nickel, County Surveyor. Thirteen lots laid off " south of the original town plat, on the east side of said section line, and reaching from the east side of Main Street to Blue River. Laid out to the south line of said Section 14." The location of Bailey's mill at the present site of Freeport, early in the twenties, brought many people there for bread stuff and made it a desirable point for the location of a store, which was done a few years later by John Corell, who it is claimed, was its first merchant. This, however, is disputed by others who claim to know, saying John McCormick deserves the credit of being the first. Nathan Prince, Alexander Rittenhouse and Judge Bailey, were also early merchants. The present business of the town consists of a flouring mill, owned by Alexander Mellis, and a general store by A. F. Kinsl}^

Vinton was laid out by John Andrews and James Templeton, March 20th, 1838. Surve3'ed by Joseph B. Nickel, County Surveyor, March 19th, 1838, 40 lots laid off, each 82 1-2 feet by 132 feet deep. Main Street located on Michigan Road, 100 feet wide. All other streets 50 feet, alleys 13.

Geneva^ Postofiice Sulphur Hill, was laid out by Lewis Cline, October 28th, 1853, consisting of 32 lots, each 60x120 feet. Streets 50 feet wide. It was laid out on the left bank ot Flatrock River in the western part of Noble Township. As a business point it is not now nor never has been of much importance. Messrs. Gibbs and Johnson, sold goods here at an early day. John Drowberger many years ago was engaged in merchandising just outside the limits of the town. At present C. C. Drowberger aud J. R. Keeling are

The Vlllaor of London is principally located in Section 25, of Moral Township. Before the building of the Cincinnati, Indianapolis, St. Louis & Chicago Railroad early in the decade of the fifties, there was nothing attempted at its present site in the way of merchandising. Soon after the completion of that important highway of commerce, Jesse Oaks began doing a small retail business in a building he had erected for that purpose. It was the first building erected on the present site of the town and it still stands for the accommodation of business. Oaks remained but a short time when, on account of failing health, he sold to McDougal & McKay, who did a prosperous business for some time. McDougal had formerly been in business at Pleasant View, and after about two years he sold his interest to his partner who continued for several years. This same store building has nearly always been occupied by merchandising, the present merchant being Oliver Means. After the railroad had been completed a few years, Joel Crum and John Jeffries began business under the firm name of Crum & Jeffries. For a while they did a good business. Their store stood on the site now occupied by the new building of Wesley Crum. The most successful merchant that has ever been in trade at London was Thomas Francis, who succeeded Crum '& Jeffries. There have been others in business here at various times, but the importance of the place as a trading point has decreased much in the last few years. Various other enterprises have been started, but all alike have disappeared. About the year 1856, a large building was erected for the purpose of holding a seminary, but after a few years the school was discontinued, and the house is now occupied as a dwelling. Nathan Earlywine was the earliest village blacksmith, and the business has been represented from his time to this. Thomas Rubush is the present physician. London is now little more than a decaying village, and excepting in name can have no hope of rivaling its namesake the renowned metropolis of the British Empire.

The town with its additions was laid out by Aaron House, July 2ist, 1852; surveyed by J. M. Elliott, June 30, 1852; see Deed Record T, 405; also; New Plat Book No. i, page 23, plat 4; thirty-two lots and one outlot laid off; Main Street, on the C, I., St. L. & C. R. R., is 100 feet wide. Aaron House's first addition was laid out June 13th, 1852; surveyed by John Dargin, County Surve3'or, June 4th, 1852; eleven lots south of the original town plat of London, and five lots not numbered; no dimensions given.

St. Paul in Shelby Count}'. John F. Stephens' Addition. Laid out April 4th, 1856. Surveyed b}^ John Dargin, Count}- Surveyor. One hundred and twenty-three lots lying west of St. Paul, in Decatur County, Ind., said lots laid off in six blocks. Asa J. Avery's Addition. Laid out October 6th, 1858. Nineteen lots laid off. Henrv C. Lord's Addition was laid out October 27th, i860. Surveved by Ed. Winchel, County Surveyor, September 22th, i860. Counting 114 lots northwest of Stephens' Addition. The business portion as well as probably three-fourths of the entire town lies in Decatur Countv and therefore does not deserve space in this work.

Prcscott. - Laid out by S. L. Dorsey, June 28th, 1867. Dorsey's Addition was laid out March 12th, 1869. This town like Lewis Creek, St. John's stations and Ray's Crossing on the line of the J., M. & I. Railroad are but way stations, and while each has done something in a commercial way there is but little or nothing of historic value that may vet be recorded.

By Lee F. Wilson

HOMAS A. HENDRICKS was the son of Major !fj%&Jo^"-I^^"^"cks, and the grandson of Abraham Hendricks, a descendant of the Huguenots, who immigrated to New Jerse}', and thence to Pennsylvania, just before the Revolution. Abraham Hendricks, as well as his amiable wife, who was of a Scotch family - the Jamiesons - -was a person of remarkable force of character. He was elected to Pennsylvania Assembly first, in 1792, and served four terms in the Legislature, the last ending in 1798. William Hendricks, second governor of Indiana, preceded his brother John in moving to this State from Ohio, and had gained much notoriety as a talented and public man, when Major John Hendricks finally concluded to risk his fortune in the wilds of the New West. The last named, John Hendricks, afterward known as Major, on account of his being commissioned as Major of the State militia, prior to 1820 resided with his little family at Zanesville, Ohio. His wife was hio-hlv connected and was noted for her strong sense of dut}^ and earnest pietv. Her name was Jane Thomson, and was, with a niece, the only member of that family who emiorrated west, the others remaininij in Pennsvlvania and other eastern States, some of whom have gained enviable reputations in law% medicine, politics and the ministry. The Agnews, of New York, the Blacks and Watsons of Pittsburgh, the Wylies of Philadelphia, and the descendants of Alexander Thomson, of Chambersbuurg, Pa., are worthv of special note in this connection. Shortly after their marriage, Alajor John Hendricks and his wife moved to Muskingum County, Ohio. While there they lived in a rude log house, one stor}^ one room, one door and two windows, built from round logs, unscutched, chinked and daubed after the pioneer fashion. In this little domicile, wherein reigned peace and domestic tranquility, were born two sons, one Abram, the other Thomas A. The last named, Thomas A. Hendricks, was born on September 7, 1819. The next year, 1820, lured by the brilHant career of William Hendricks, heretofore spoken of as the second governor of the State, and afterward a member of Congress and later a dis- tinguished United States Senator, Major John Hendricks, with his little family, removed to Madison, hidiana, then the metropolis of the State. Two years later, 1822, Major Hendricks moved to Shelby Countv, then a wilderness of wood, now the site of Shelb}^- ville. Here the parents of one of the Nation's greatest men commenced to hew out a house and carve a career for their hopeful son, then scarcely three years of age. A house was soon erected, trees felled, and a new farm opened. The latch string of Major Hendrick's liouse always hung out for all comers and goers, ministers, politicians, officials, all, found a welcome at the Hendricks farm. Mrs. Hendricks was a devout Christian, by profession a Calvinist, as were all the Hendricks family on both sides, the Thomsons and Hendrickses. By her charitable acts, Christian deportment and natural urbanitv, the new familv soon became the leading" familv of the county, and most noted for its hospitality.

Late in the year 1822, a log school-house was erected in the woods, where Shelbyville now stands. A Mr. Griffin was the first instructor, but gave place to William H. Hawkins before the subject of this sketch was old enough to attend school. Mr. Hawkins was noted for his abilitv to "wield the rule and the birch." The late Vice President seldom referred to Mr. Hawkins when giving reminiscences of his early school days. He afterward conducted his school in the Methodist Church. Realizing' the need of a new school-house and a home for the teacher's family, John Hendricks and John Walker headed a subscription and built a two story brick school-house, which is now occupied as a business house,- and is situated on Washington Street, one block from the public square. In 1829, Rev. Eliphalet Kent came to fill the Presbyterian pastorate, and brought with him froin the east a young bride, a ladv of excellent culture, fine education, graceful and nobly consecrated to the work of the Master. She was soon given the school and to her Mr. Hendricks owed much of his training and success. Here uncle Isaac Wilson, Squire L. Vanpelt, Judge Sleeth and many of the oldest citizens of the citvnow living, attended school with Thomas x\. Hendricks. Having completed his course in the common schools of Shelby^'ille, he entered the Hanover College in 1836, where he remained until 1841, save a few months he was unavoidably absent. Here he studied the sciences, political economy, Latin, Greek and the Bible. Returning to his home, he commenced the study of law in the office of Stephen Major, then a young lawver of brilliant attainments and considerable tact and experience. In 1843, Mr. Hendricks went to Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, where he entered the law school, in which Alexander Thomson was instructor, a man of high ability, extensive learning, much experience as Judge of the Sixteenth

Judicial District, comprising Franklin, Somerset, Fulton and Bedford Counties, and was, as heretofore stated, a relative of Mr. Hendricks on his mother's side. To this private school also went the late Governor Conrad Baker, and others, who afterward became men of distinction. It was at this place that Thomas A. Hendricks became acquainted with the talented Judge Jere S. Black. After eight months' hard work, he returned to Shelb}' ville, passed an examination and was, the same 3'ear, admitted to the practice and at once started an office of his own. His first case was before S(]uire Lee. Nathan Powell, a young lawyer with whom Hendricks had grown up, was his opponent. They had finished their school education the same year; had opened their law offices within a few days of each other, and this was the first effort of young Powell, as well as Mr. Hendricks. Each had volunteered his services, and the "Squire's" office was crowded, a prize offered to the victor. The cause was a trivial one, yet the young law3"ers worked hard and with the vim of old practitioners. Mr. Hendricks Avon, and after complimenting Mr. Powell upon his effort, he gracefully served the apples which had been furnished bv an enthusiastic spectator. Thus started the young advocate who was destined to become one of the Nation's greatest and most beloved statesmen.

It was about this time that Martin M. Rav, a voung attornev, and the father of W. Scott Rav, settled in the town. He was, in politics, a Whig, and it mav be here remarked that all of the Hendricks family on both sides, except Thomas A., were Whigs. Mr. Ra}' and Hendricks soon became fast friends, and though pitted against each other both in law and politics, they remained friends to the last.

In 1843, he formed the acquaintance of Miss Eliza Morgan, who was the daughter of a widow, living at North Bend, Ohio, her father, Hon. Isaac Morgan, having died some years before. She was visiting her sister, Mrs. Daniel West, at Shelbyville, and soon became the centre of the social circle of the village, being at the time, in her teens, a beautiful girl, accomplished, affable, and of the highest type of social culture. Two years later, September 26, 1845, Thomas A. Hendricks and Miss Eliza Morgan were married at North Bend, Ohio, the Rev. Mr. Jones, a Baptist minister, officiating.

So soon as Thomas A. Hendricks emerged from boy-hood, his. success as a lawyer and a public man was assured. Having established an office in Shelbyville, he gained in a short time a fair competence and soon became one of the leading attoneys of the place.

In 1848, January 16, a son was born to Mr. and Mrs. Hendricks - the only child they ev'er had. He was named Morgan. He was a beautiful boy, full of life and joy, the pride of his parents and the object of general admiration with all their acquaintances. He died in 1 85 1, causing gloom to cover the household and grief to linger on the countenace of the devoted parents.

In the same year, 1848, without his seeking, Mr. Hendricks was nominated for the Lower House of the General Assembly, against Capt. Nathan Earlywine. His canvass was marked by his forcible arguments and brilliant oratory. Although young, he proved himself a forcible speaker, a sound reasoner and a successful debater. He was elected to the Lei^islature and served his term with marked distinction. He took an active part in the passage of a law in the interest of "the common schools" which was approved in June, 1849. He was a member of the committee which reported a bill for making all tuition free.

At the August election of 1849, a majorit}- of the voters of the State favored the proposition for a constitutional convention, to consist of 150 members, chosen from the senatorial and representative districts. Thomas A. Hendricks and James Vanbenthusen were chosen, the same being unsought by either, and the election without opposition. The convention assembled in October, 1850, and was presided over by George W. Carr, of Lawrence County. Mr. Hendricks served on two important committees - County and Township Organization, Powers and Officers, and on Finance. He won much distinction in the convention, especially by his speech on the resolution relative to the abolition of the grand jur}' system. On the 13th of November, 1850, the venerable colleague of Mr. Hendricks died, and on the i8th following, Mr. Hendricks made a very touching speech upon the life and career of the deceased.

The following year, in the spring, was the beginning of Mr. Hendricks' career in national politics. This congressional district was composed of several counties, extending far to the east and as far north as Tipton County, including Marion. The convention was held at Indianapolis, May i6th, 1851, and the candidates were numerous. Among them were : Jonathan McCarty, who had served with much credit for many years, James H. Rariden, Andrew Kennedy, William J. Brown, and William W. Wick. The contest was heated, but on the thirty-third ballot Mr. Hendricks was made the nominee for Congress from the then fifth congressional district. This was the last close contest for a nomination that he ever had. Col. James P. Rush, of Hancock County, was nominated by the Whigs as his opponent, and made a vigorous canvass of the district. Mr. Hendricks in this contest gained the appellation of " log-roller," from a little incident said to have occurred during that race: One day, while on his journey to fill an appointment some place in Hamilton Count}', and reaching the neighborhood in which he was to speak, he alighted from his horse to help a man who was tr3-ing to put a log on a heap. For one man this was a difficult task, but with the help of Mr. Hendricks it was easily accomplished. Mr. Hendricks, without explaining his purpose or giving his name mounted his steed and went on. The next day he spoke in New Lancaster, Tipton Countv. The day after he addressed a meeting in Boxleytown, Hamilton County, at the conclusion of which, a gentleman came forward and said to Mr. Hendricks:

"Well, that settles it," said the man of toil, who had every appearance of being a frontiersman. "We 'lowed that it was vou, and I want to say to ye, stranger, that any man es will neighbor with a feller that Avay, an' not be blowin' 'bout such important business to his self es runnin' fur congress, is just our kind of a man. That feller you helped is my son-in-law. He and another sonin-law, my son and me are all Whigs, but every darned one of us intends to vote fur you."

The returns from that precinct showed that the tallv was changed eight votes in Hendricks' favor. His log rolling had accomplished there an example worthv of emulation.

Since that campaign, the man who gets out among the people, mingles with them and neighbors with the voters, is called a political "log roller."

Of course Mr. Hendricks was elected. In congress he progressed with signal ability, was called to act on some of the most important committees, and won not only a national reputation, but the good will and friendship of all with whom he came in contact. Scarce had Congress adjourned when he was re(|uired to make another campaign, for the constitution had transferred the congressional elections to even years and the month to October. The new district included six counties, Marion County as one.

The Whig candidate, John H. Bradley, of Indianapolis, was a brilliant man, and a public speaker of rare attainments. He had not been nominated by anv convention but had declared himself the candidate in response to a published card signed by three of his friends and admirers. The Whigs refused to call a convention, preferring to let him pose as the "People's candidate." He made a thorough canvass of Shelby County, but to no avail. The usual Democratic majority in Old Shelby was doubled and Mr. Hendricks was again triumphantly elected to Congress.

In 1854, when the Northern Whigs were in a chaotic condition, Pro-Slavery and Anti-Slaver}^ Free Soilers, Garrisonian Abolitionists, Know-Nothings and Democrats commingling in a storm of confusion, a "Fusion" State and Congressional ticket was formed for the occasion. Opposed to Mr. Hendricks in this district, was Lucian Barbour, a talented lawyer of Lidianapolis, who had been a Democrat, and now exerted himself to combine all the opponents of Democracy. Mr. Hendricks did not desire this nor the former nomination for Congress, preferring rather the pursuit of his profession, but the charge that he had misrepresented his constituency in voting for the Kansas-Nebraska bill, and the challenges made to him personalh' by the opposition to defend his course, led him to accept the nomination, which his part}^ was eager to bestow upon him. He made a strong, vigorous and manly contest for the election, but the tidal wave had started and politics of the State vmderwent a change. Mr. Hendricks was defeated. This he bore with becoming dignity, and, after serving a single session more, retired to his profession and his home in Shelbvville.

In August, 1855, he was commissioned h\ President Pierce, General Land Commissioner, one of the most important positions in the gift of the President. He served in this capacity nearlv four years, when in 1859, he resigned, and again resumed his practice at home. In i860, the Democratic State Convention was held at Indianapolis, and Thomas A. Hendricks was made the unanimous nominee for Governor. His opponent was Henry S. Lane, a soldier of the Mexican War, a patriot and an orator. These two men, even tempered, of the sweetest and most admirable character, spoke together in nearly every county in the State. It was,' however, the most exciting canvass ever made in the State, yet each retained his composure, and each throughout the campaign showed the other the utmost courtesy and the fairest consideration. Defeat again came to Mr. Hendricks. In the same 3-ear he moved to Indianapolis, where he lived to the day of his death. He immediately gained a large practice in law, which he always enjoved.

In January, 1863, he was elected to the United States Senate, which position he held for six years, gaining for himself additional honors and a national reputation. In 1S72 he was again nominated for Governor of Indiana. His opponent was General Thomas Browne, a Republican of considerable ability and an enviable reputation. This campaign was peculiar, in one particular. The Republicans had infused the crusaders with the idea that the}-' were the salvation of their cause, while the Democracy opposed all sumptuary laws. Yet, Mr. Hendricks went before the people as a temperance man, opposed to prohibition, but willing to sign any constitutional legislation looking toward the amehoration of crime and the advancement of temperance. He was elected, and kept his pledges to a letter. In the Legislature, elected at the same time, the Baxter bill, a mixture of high license and local option, was passed and submitted to Governor Hendricks for approval. He regarded the bill as unconstitutional, and was himself politically and individually opposed to the principles of its provisions : but in his canvass for election, he had promised the people that if the Legislature, which would be elected with him, on the same issues, should pass a temperance law, he would sign it, and he did so. This was characteristic of Thomas A. Hendricks. He always kept his pledges inviolate, and ever remained true to his friends. He had a high sense of duty and a spirit of philanthropy pervaded his whole nature.

The writer sent to Col. Samuel Donelson, now a resident of Sedan, Kansas, but formerly, and for man^- years, a citizen of Shelbyville, and a close friend of Mr. Hendricks, for data and incidents he might remember of the late Vice President during his career in the county from 1822 to i860. Col. Donelson's acquaintance with Mr. Hendricks began in the year 1852. The Colonel was the Democratic nominee for the Lower House of the General Assembly, to which he was elected in that year, and the subject of this sketch was the nominee for re-election to Congress - the short term - made so b}- the new constitution of the State. The Colonel was billed to speak at Blacb Hawk, and Mr. Hendricks was there- Col. Donelson made his speech - quite an arraignment of the old Whig party - in which he eloquently contrasted the policies and measures of the two great parties. To say the least, it was a. statesman-like speech, during the dehvery of which Mr. Hendricks was a few yards off, seated under a large sugar tree in company with John Snepp. As the Colonel warmed up, Mr. Hendricks, drew' near and listened attentively to the close of the speech, and at its close, Mr. Hendricks went up to the Colonel, and said: "Mr.. Donelson, you have made an ingenious speech." After remarkingthat the}' would dine with Mr. French that day, they started on their way to the hotel together, when Mr. Hendricks said: "Sam, where did you get the ideas of your speech?" The Colonel said: "I picked them up from what I could remember of a speech delivered by Hon. Bill Hill, of Ohio, at Maysville, Ky., in 1849." Mr. Hendricks laughed heartily, for it brought to his mind a little incident of his ow^n experience. In 1842, a year before Mr Hen- dricks quit school, he made a speech in Johnny Young's Grove, on the occasion of a Fourth of July barbecue. It was well received, says a biographer, and added much to his reputation as a speaker. Two years later (1844) Captain Nathan Early wine, a Whig pohtician, who afterward became Hendricks' opponent for the Legislature, was invited to deliver an annual address, and he came to Mr. Hendricks to borrow his oration delivered in 1842, suggesting that the latter might make some alterations and additions suitable to the time and the man. Mr. Hendricks very generously consented to the plan, and, in revising the oration, inserted some very sound Democratic sentiments on the Oregon question, which was just then agitating the people. The obtuse and unsuspecting Earlywine made the speech and placed special stress upon the amended portion of his adopted oration, much to the chagrin of his Whig friends, and the astonishment of Democrats who grouped about laughing unseemly and nudging those who were " onto " the joke.

In speaking of the Vice President's fidelity to his friends and his devotion to those of his early association, Col. Donelson savs: "Some vears after Mr. Hendricks went into the practice of law, a little incident occurred which, to ine, proved the true greatness of this man who was destined to fill the second highest place in the gift of the people. About one mile east of Shelbyville, lived a queer old man who had but two children, a son and daughter. The old man was very eccentric, and, at his death, he left the bulk of his estate to the society of colonization. In vain the children tried for several years to get a lawyer to undertake the breaking up of the will. Almost destitute and in despair, the daughter applied to Mr. Hendricks to take the case. She went to his office carrvin<r her little baby. Mr. Hendricks listened attentively to her stor}-, at the conclusion of which he turned to me - as I happened to be present - and said, ' Will you go and request Martin M. Ray to call at my ofiice? ' ' Yes,' I replied, and I went immediately to Mr. Ray, and told him what Mr. Hendricks said. I accompanied Mr. Ray to the office. Hendricks explained the case to Mr. Ray, remarking at its close, ' I want your assistance in this case. I went to school with that girl, and I intend that she shall have her share in the estate.' " Col. Donelson recites a conversation he had with the late Vice President, a few weeks before his death, in which Mr. Hendricks, in contrasting the conventions of to-day with those of former years, gave an account of a convention held in Brandywine Township, on the roadside near the residence of the late Capt. Hawkins. He said that after the meeting had been called to order and its object talked over by the moderator, one gentleman spoke up in a loud voice, " All of those who are in favor of Col. Miller, for the Legislature, come on this side of the road!" Then Jerre Odell. standing on the other side of the road, said, " All those who fa\or Thomas A. Hendricks, for the Legislature, come on this side of the road, with me! " They then counted noses, and Mr. Hendricks was declared the choice of Brandywine Township, for representative.

Reference has been made to his first nomination and election to the General x\ssembly in 1848. As a matter of fact he did not seek this nomination. Under the old constitution, all the State officers (except Governor and Lieutenant Governor), the circuit judges and the judges of the supreme court, were elected by the Legislature. In the winter of 1847, a vacancy in the judgeship of Shelby County occurred, and Judge William W. Wick was a candidate before the Legislature, wiiich. met in December, for re-election. Judge Wick was a very able law3'er, an impartial judge, and in every wa}- much of a gentleman, and well known to the people of the State. Judge J. M. Sleeth, of Shelbyville, was then serving his third term in the lower house, and in that Legislature strongl}"- urged the election of Thomas A. Hendricks to the judgeship. Mr. Hendricks was then scarcely tw^ent3'-eight years of age, and as yet had not become much know^n to the members of the Legislature, and Judge Wick was re-elected by a small majority. At that time the Lea'islature met in the first week of December, each vear. Representatives were elected each 3'ear, and Senators every three years. In 1848, Judge J. M. Sleeth desired to go to the Senate from Shelbv County, which, at that time, was entitled to one Senator and one Representative, and Thomas A. Hendricks wished also to go to the Senate. Judge Sleeth, however, defeated him for the nomination, and the friends of the former, without his consent or even desire, nominated him for the lower house. As has been said, he was elected, and did much ^'aluable service as a Representative, making himself felt on every important occasion.

During all his career in Shelbyville, the Hon. Martin M. Ray was ever his near and confidential friend. To him he confided his political plans and aspirations. The friendship was mutual and reciprocal. After the death of Martin M. Ray, he became the intimate friend of W. Scott Ray, a son of Martin M., whom he alwavs visited when in Shelbyville. About two weeks before the Vice President's death, he came to Shelbyville, and in the evening from 6 o'clock till 9:45 P. M., he spent in the office of the Democrat^ talking with its proprietor, Mr. Ray, and a number of friends who had assembled to see him on that occasion. He talked freely on the topics of the day and his intended trip to Washington to resume the duties of President of the Senate. During the evening he made frequent mention of his old friend, the father of his auditor. Shelb}' County was, to him, always a pleasant place to come. Here he met true and devoted friends, friends who both loved and admired him. From 1S60, to his death, he always came to the county on or about the eve of election to speak to the Democracy of the home of his childhood.

In 1876, he was nominated for the Vice Presidency on the Democratic ticket, with Samuel J. Tilden, of New York. Of this election, it was claimed, they were flagrantly defrauded by returning boards and the electoral commission selected for that purpose, or for the purpose, as was claimed, of arbitrating the rights of both political parties, and of averting an impending civil war if Tilden should take his seat. . In 18S0, the name of Thomas A. Hendricks was placed in nomination for the Presidency at Cincinnati, by Indiana, and his nomination strongly urged in the convention. In 1884, he was delegate to the Chicago convention, and as chairman of the Indiana delegation, presented, in befitting terms and a masterly manner, the name of Joseph E. McDonald for the Presidency. After the latter had positively refused to accept the second place on the ticket, Mr. Hendricks was almost unanimously chosen, and the successful ticket for 1884, the first in twenty-five years, became Grover Cleveland for President and Thomas A. Hendricks for Vice President.

In 1883, Mr. and Mrs. Hendricks made a trip to Europe, visiting Great Britain, Ireland, France, Italy, Switzerland and Germany. This they enjoyed very much, and he often spoke of the many pleasures of that trip. Of Major John Hendricks' family there now remain but two. The famity consisted of iVbram, Thomas A., Jane, Anna, John, James, and two others. Abram became a Presbyterian minister, and died in 1S60. Jane married Dr. Webb, of Shelby ville, who, in 1850, died of cholera. She afterward married Dr. Pierce, of New York, and moved to that city where she died. Dr. Pierce, a few years after married Anna, the only remaining sister of Thomas A., and she and Dr. Pierce are still livinix in New York City. John lived here until about 1870, acting for a number of years as post master of Shelbyville. He moved to Delhi, Ohio, vv'here he died a few years a^jo. Tames Hendricks, the youno;est, still lives here (Shelbyville), himself and Mrs. Dr. Pierce being the onh^ survivors of a family of eight.

But few greater calamities ever befell a people than the death of Vice President Hendricks. He was one of the Nation's greatest men, deep, broad minded, diplomatic and above all, a true man. On the 25th day of November, 1885, he died at his home at Indianapolis, of heart disease. At the moment of his death, he was alone. His loving wife, who had ever been his companion, his solace and his adviser, had, a moment before, left the room after hearing him say " I am free at last, " meaning that he was at last free from pain, and had responded to a call at the door, when upon her return to her distinguished husband, she found him dead, his eyes partly closed, his face shapely, with no signs of pain or struggle and his countenance placid as if fallen asleep. The doctor was summoned, but it was too late. The great statesman, lawyer, and citizen had passed beyond the reach of human aid. The funeral was the largest ever known in the State and thousands went from Shelbv County to pay their last respect to the honored dead. The ladies of Shelbyville and vicinity, made and sent to the persons in charge of the funeral, a beautiful miniature floral cabin, representing the house of his birth, with appropriate wreaths to be used on that occasion. This floral tribute expressive of the tender affection of the ladies for the Vice President, was the finest, both as to qualitv and design, ever made in the State.

We have thus briefly traced the life of one of nature's noblemen, giving only an outline of his public career without attempting to narrate his individual efforts in the discharge of the duties of the manv trusts conferred upon him. To do this would require more space than we are allowed in the performance of our difficult, though pleasant task. His acts and speeches in Congress, both in the House and Senate, his defense of what he conceived to be right, his labor for the poor, the oppressed and the wronged of every class in this and other countries would be of great interest to his people and worthy of emulation by all. His devotion to his partv, his candor and honesty of purpose, his noble ambition to faithfully serve his people, his philanthropy and universal love of mankind combined to make him one of the noblest of men. Strong in his profession, vet courteous to his opponents. Great in intellect, vet approachable by the humblest of men. High in position, he met every man as his equal. Independent in thought, self-reliant in principle and rich in pleasant greetings to all whom he met. He had few critics and fewer enemies. He rejoiced *vhen others rejoiced and wept when thev wept. He gave alms to the poor and sympathised with them in adversity. His life has taught a lesson of the past, the duties of the present and a glorious hope for the future. Though dead, he vet lives in the hearts of his people, and his noble characteristics stand out in bold relief as beacon lights to guide and direct generations vet to be. His place in life mav be occupied, but can never be filled.

Shelbyville Sketches

Edmund K. Adams. - The subject of this sketch is descended from an old Scotch family, several representatives of which emigrated in an early day to Ireland, the latter country being the nativity of James Adams,' the grandfather of Edmund K. James Adams came to America in Colonial times, and often participating in the struggle for independence, settled in Pennsylvania, where he married and where he remained until after the birth of John H. Adams, father of subject, when he emigrated to Ohio. John H. Adams, at the age of thirty years, came to Indiana and settled in Bartholemew County, where he subsequently married Amanda, daughter of Nathan and Jane Graves, who bore him six children, the subject of this sketch being the second in number. Edmund K. Adams was born on the 14th day of August, 1852, and spent the years of his youth upon his father's farm, obtaining a rudimentary education in the meantime by attending such schools as the country afforded. In the fall of 1869, he entered the Hartsville University where he pursued his literary studies until the spring of 1874, spending a portion of his vacations in the meantime as teacher in the counties of Shelby, Bartholemew and Johnson, in all of which he held first-class certificates of qualifications as an instructor. Early in 1874 he conceived the idea of preparing himself for the legal profession, and at once entered as a student the law office of Messrs. Hord & Blair, of Shelbyville, a law firm of superior abilities, and at that time possessing one of the most extensive practices in Southern Indiana. Under the instruction of these able tutors, he applied himself arduously until the spring of 1877, at which time he was admitted to the bar, and at once entered upon the active practice of his profession. He continued the practice alone until December, 1879, when he united in a co-partnership with Hon. O. J. Glessner and L. J. Hackney, which at once took rank as one of the strongest and most successful law firms in Shelby County. Since 1883, Mr. Adams has been senior member of the firm of Adams & Hackney, and is justly accorded a place among the most efficient and painstaking as well as one of the most successful lawyers in the southern part of the State. He is a Democrat in politics and a member of the Masonic Fraternity, having identified himself with the order in 1884. December 29, 1880, he was united in marriage with Miss NelHe Ludlow, of this county, daughter of Stephen and Teressa ( Blankenship ) Ludlow. Mrs. Adams was born November 17, 1861. Mr. and Mrs. Adams have one child - Ethel.

Hon. John Beggs, President of the Shelb}- Distilling Company, is a native of Ireland, and son of Edward and Elizabeth (^ Gibson) Beggs; parrents both born in the same country, about the year 1798. Edward Beggs was for many years a merchant in the town of Ballinamallord, Ireland, where his death occurred in the year 1872. John Beggs is the second of a family of seven children and dates his birth from the 6th day of April, 1830, having tirst seen the light in the town where his father carried on the mercantile business. He received his primary education in his native country, and at the age of ten years, came to America, locating at Cincinnati, where for some time he pursued his studies under competent instructors in a select school. Having completed liis preparatory course he subsequently became a student of Woodward College, which institution he attended for a period of three years, making substantial progress during that time. In the spring of 1845, he began to learn the distillery business, at New Richmond, Ohio, under David Gibson, and after becoming proficient in the same, put his knowledge into practice by taking charge of a distillery in the city of Troy, thence to Ashville, Ohio, where he was similarly engaged for more than four years. In 1852, he engaged in distillery business at Metamora, Franklin County, Ind., and after remaining there for a period of twenty years sold out in 1872, and removed to Shelbyville, in which cit}' he operated a distillery, until 1883. In that year he suffered severely by fire, his loss aggregating about $25,000. Immediately after this disaster, Mr. Beggs founded the Shelby Distilling Company, of which he has since served as President. This company under the efficient management of Mr. Beggs, has succeeded in building up a very prosperous business, and is one of the largest and most successful corporations of the kind in southern Indiana. In addition to his business enterprises, Mr. Beggs has given a great deal of attention to public and political affairs, having been elected to the State Senate in 1876. In his political affiliations he is a Democrat, and as such has rendered valuable service to his party in this county. He married in 1853, Miss Rebecca Lewis, who was born in Franklin County, Indiana, in the vear 183 1. To this marriage were born eight children, seven of whom are living, viz. : Elizabeth C, Belle, Clara, John E., Kate, Harr}- and Thomas.

John E. Beggs, Superintendent of the works of the Shelby Distilling Company, and also one of the stockholders, was born at Metamora, Franklin County, Indiana, July 28, 1861, and is the son of John and Rebecca (Lewis) Beggs. He is the eldest son of seven children. The greatest part of his education was obtained in the public schools of Laurel, Ind., but his father moved to Shel- byville in 1879, and John E. had the benefit of attending the ShelbYville High School a year or so.- After having learned the trade of veast maker at Cincinnati, he entered his father's distillery at Shelby ville in 1881, and having applied himself with great care, was made superintendent of that institution during the year following. It was while holding this position, that Mr. Beggs made some rare and valuable discoveries in the art of yeast making, which greatly increased the amount of alcohol a given (quantity of grain will produce. Not long after he became superintendent of his father's distillery, a serious fire broke out which entirely destroyed that establishment. A fine new building was immediately erected in its stead, by the Shelby Distilling Compan}', in which company, the subject of this sketch is now a stockholder, and is also superintendent of the distilling department. In politics, Mr. Beggs is an uncompromising Democrat, and cast his first vote for Cleveland for President. He is a member of one secret order, the Knights of Pythias, which he joined in 1886. He was married February 13,' 1887, to Miss Kate C. Webb, of this city. Mrs. Beggs is the daughter of Robert and Clara (Mason) Webb, who are natives of Virginia.

John Blessing was born in Frederick Count}^ Maryland, on the 3d of March, 1828. His father John Blessing, was a native of Virginia, but died in Maryland when our subject was quite young. The mother of Mr. Blessing was Mary Ann (Kesselring) Blessing, a native of Frederick County, Maryland, and where she died. Our subject was raised on the farm, and at nine years of age began supporting himself. In 1847, he came to Ohio' and settled in Montgomery County. In February, 1848, he enlisted in the United States army and was attached to Company D, 8th Regiment Regulars and ordered to the seat of war in Mexico. He only served .six months, then was discharged at Jefferson Barracks, St. Louis, August. 1848. He returned immediately to Montgomery County, and for some time was engaged in the distilHng business. From 1S51 to 1852, he was engaged in raising tobacco. In 1853, he began running a canal boat from Cincinnati to Toledo. In 1857, he engaged in the distillery business at Little York in Montgomery, upon his own responsibility. In August, 1863, he came to Shelbyville and was engaged in the distillery near this city until 1866, when he sold out and during the following year engaged in the hardware business until 1869. During the latter and the year following, he erected the large and commodious structure known as *' Blessing's Opera House. " Mr. Blessing has invested some of his capital in bank stock and has been a director of the First National Bank since 1865. He has also for many years been President of the Shelby County Joint Stock Agricultural Association. Mr. Blessing is one of the most progressive men in the city. He has been a leading spirit in all of the public enterprises of this vicinity. He is a self-made man, and as such deserves high honor for what he has accomplished. He was married in 1S51, to Miss Martha J. Otey, of Montgomery County, Ohio. They have three children, Emma R., Jennie and Gertrude. Mrs. Blessing died in 1875. Her husband has since wedded Miss Mary Linville, of Lancaster County, Penn. In politics, Mr. Blessing is a Republican. He is a member of Shelby Lodge No. 39, I. O. O. F., and he and his wife are Presbyterians.

Charles H. Campbell. - Conspicuous among the enterprising and public spirited citizens of Shelbyville is Charles H. Campbell, who was born in the town of Lexington, Indiana, November 28, 1853. His paternal ancestors were among the early colonists of Virginia, his grandfather Andrew Campbell having been born in that State about the year 1777. The family came to Indiana in an early day, settling in Scott County in 1S23, where Andrew Campbell's death occurred 1856. Subject's parents, A. H. and Mary J. E. (Doolittle) Campbell were both natives of Indiana, the former born in Scott County, October 17, 1825, and the latter in the southern part of the State, June 27, of the same year. Charles H. Campbell's early educational experience embraced the studies appertaining to the course prescribed b}' the public schools, in which he made commendable progress, obtaining a practical knowledge of the common branches of learning. In 1S72, he accepted a position with the railroad locatinij in Shelbyville the followincr year and making this city his headquarters, Imtil 1875. In the latter year he was transferred to Cincinnati, but in 1876, returned to ShelbvA'ille and accepted the position of ticket agent for the C, I., St. L. & C. Railroad, the duties of which responsible trust he is still discharging. Mr. Campbell is a faithful and accomplished business man, alive to the interests of the company, bv which he is employed and enjoA'S the respect and confidence of all who know him. In addition to his ofiicial duties he takes an active interest in all measures having for their object the public good deserving special mention for his efforts in behalf of the city's welfare as member of the common council to which body he was elected in 1885, and in which he displayed wisdom, and rare executive ability. Politically he is a Republican, and cast his first vote in 1876, for R. B. Hayes. He is a member of the Odd Fellows faternitv, having identified himself with the same in 1885. He married in 1876, Miss Lucy Harding, daughter of William and Margaret Harding, of Ohio, a union blessed with the birth of two children viz. : Ada L. and George W. Campbell.

Moses Carithers was born in New York City, April 9, 1823. He is of Scotch descent, both parents having been born in Scotland. His father, John Carithers, born March 12th, 1792, came to America in youth; died in Jefferson County, Kan., October 23, 1886. His mother, Lydia (Speer) Carithers, was born in 1793, and died in Hillsdale County, Mich., in 1870. The subject of this sketch is the eldest of six children, of whom four are now living. Mr. Carithers received a common school education. In 1839, he went to Lucas County, Ohio, but from there removed to Covington, Ky., in 1847, and engaged in the lumber business until 1S56. In 187 1, he removed to Madison, Ind., and engaged in the manufacture of carriages. Since 1875, when Mr. Carithers came to Shelby ville, he has also engaged in the manufacture of carriages. In 1849, Mr. Carithers married Miss Martha Patterson, who was born in Philadelphia, in 1 83 1. There are three children to this marriage living, viz. : Frank E., Mary A. and Lee B. Mr. Carithers is a member of the Presbyterian Church in Shelbyville: in politics he is a Republican.