Shelby County, Indiana - Chapter 9: By Douglas Dobbins, Ex-County Superintendent, 1887 (part 5 of 7)

James H, Smith, a prominent pioneer of Moral Township, was born in Brook County, W. Va., April 30, 1819. His parents were Robert and Isabella (Crawford) Smith, natives of Mar3'land. When our subject was about seven years of age his parents removed to Pittsburg, Penn., where the}^ resided about two years; from thence they removed to Richland County, Ohio, where the mother of our subject was called awa}- in 1833. In the spring of 1836, Robert Smith and his family, which now consisted of three boys and three girls, started with their household goods in a two-horse wagon for Missouri, but on arriving at this point on the route they concluded to stop and settle down. Accordingly, Mr. Smith entered eighty acres of the line farm of 226 acres owned by James H. Smith today. They put up a round log cabin and moved into it and began to clear up a home. This was then almost an unbroken wilderness, and but few cabins were to be found in a day's ride, it seemed like an almost endless task to hew a home out of the dense forest, but the sturdy pioneers never lost courage, and toiled on. Our subject spent the principal part of his life on the farm he owns to-day, and has witnessed a great change in the country, the wilderness of lifty years ago, the old by-roads have disappeared, and Mr. Smith carried the chain on the survey of the old Greenfield and Franklin State Road; but civihzation has come to stay and the whole country is now dotted with churches and schools. On Januar}' 22, 1843, he chose for a life companion, Nancy Emmons, daughter of Uriah and Nancy (Richmond ) Emmons, natives of New Jersey. Mrs. Smith was born in Butler Count}', Ohio, April 14, 1822. At the age of ten she accompanied her parents to Hancock County where they setttled and continoied to reside until their deaths. Mr. and Mrs. Smith were blessed with thirteen children: Jerome C, Mary J., Hannah, James H., Sidney, Nancy, Martha, Isabella, Eliza, Diza, Emily, Fernando W. aiid Caroline M., of whom Nancy and Isabella are deceased, eleven of whom have arrived at maturity and seven are married and have families of their own. Politically, Mr. Smith is a Democrat, and firmly beheves in the principles of that party, but has never sought political honors.

TiNSLEY Smith was born in North Carolina, September i6, 1821. His parents were James and Nancy Smith, natives of North Carohna. Our subject accompanied his parents to Switzerland County, Ind., in 1829, there the}^ resided until 1830, when they removed to Moral Township, and located near Pleasant View, this was then a wilderness. In a few years he entered land east of Sugar Creek; there our subject grew to manhood. He continued to reside on that farm until his death, which occurred in 1884. Being reared on a farm, Tinsley adopted farming as a life profession. Owing to limited school advantages, his education was only fair. In 1844, he was married to Sarah Murnan, daughter of Michael and Jane Murnan, old and respected pioneers of Shelby Countv. This union was blessed with four children: Jane, Nancy, Elizabeth and John J., of whom Nancy is deceased. Mrs. Smith was called away in 1856. In 1857, Mr. Smith was married to Jane Cunningham, daughter of David and Ellen Cunningham, residents at the time of their deaths, of Hancock County. This union lasted until the 15th of August, 1885, when Mrs. Smith was called home. Politically, Mr. Smith is a Democrat, but never sought for political honors. He began life at the bottom of the ladder, and has earned what he is worth to-day, by hard and earnest toil. At one time he owned about i,ooo acres of fine land in Moral Township, but has been ver}- liberal with his children, helping them to homes. He to-day, owns a comfortable home of 240 'acres, provided with good and substantial improvements.

Martin Snepp, prominent farmer of Moral Township, and a resident of London, Indiana, is a son of William and Magdalene (Warner) Snepp. The former w^as the son of Daniel and Elizabeth (Isley) Snepp. Daniel was the son of Leonard Snepp, a native of Berks Countv, Pennsvlvania, who emigrated to Montgomerv Countv, Ohio, about 1800, where he ended his days. Daniel and Elizabeth (Isley) Snepp, were, reared and married in Pennsylvania and ended their days in Montgomery County, Ohio, the former dving at the early age of forty. William and Magdalene (Warner) Snepp, the former a son of Daniel and Elizabeth Snepp, and the father of our subject, Martin Snepp, was born in JVIontgomery Countv, Ohio. There he spent his boyhood days on a farm. In 1832, William Snepp with his family removed to a farm that he had recently purchased in Jackson Township, Shelby County, Indiana. Mr. Snepp soon erected a blacksmith shop, and began working at his trade. His death occurring in June, 1837, a widow and three children were left to mourn his loss. The\- were Martin, Emauel and Ann C. The mother is still living at the advanced age of eightyone vears. Martin Snepp was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, but soon after accompanied his parents to Jackson Township, this county, where he spent his boyhood and youth, receiving a fair education. At the age of sixteen he started out for himself, and engaged as a farm laborer. At the early age of twenty he was married to Miss Martha Sawin, daughter of James H. and Caroline (Harvey) Sawin. She was born in Bartholomew County, Indiana, in 1827, where she was reared. On December 5, 1868, Mrs. Snepp died; she was a devout member of the old school Baptist Church. In 1869, our subject was married to Miss Margaret E. Dicke}', and the union was blessed with three sons: Luther P., Homer D. and Leon B., all of whom are living. This union lasted until 1877. In 18S0, Mr. Snepp chose for his companion Frances Kelsev, widow of Newton Kelsey, and daughter of Jacob and Mar}^ Guile. Frances is a native of Washington Township, this county. Mr. and Mrs. Snepp are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Snepp is a member of Edinburg Lodge No. 100, F. & A. M., and a Democrat in politics. He now owns a farm in Moral Township, and residence property in London, where he resides.

Daniel H. Snepp, a prominent young farmer of Moral Township, is a native of this county, born December 5, 1862. He was raised on a farm and received a good education in his vouth. For a number of years he was engaged in selling agricultural implements, and pays some attention to that business yet. On March 9, 1884, he was married to Miss Naomi McGregor, daughter of William and Margaret McGregor, old and respected residents of Marion County, where Mrs. Snepp was born June 2, 1863. This union was blessed with one child, Maggie, who died in infancy. Mr. Snepp is a resident of London, and at present is Postmaster and Democratic central committeeman from Moral Township. He takes an active interest in the affairs of his party, and is one of the promising young men of the county.

Napoleon B. Snodgrass, one of the pioneers of Moral Township, was born in Harrison County, Ky., November 8, 1822. He was the son of Benjamin and Ursula (Evans) Snodgrass, the former a native of Virginia, and the latter a native of Pennsylvania. Mr. Snodgrass is of English descent. When our subject was about six years of age his parents removed to a tract of land which they had purchased near Palestine, Hancock County. They located on the land and moved into a rude log cabin on October 7, 1828, and on September 17, 1829, Mr. Snodgrass was called away, leaving a widow and live children to mourn his loss. In early years Mr. Snodgrass was taught a lesson which has distinguished him through life. At the age of twenty-one he began to work at the carpenter and milhvrighting trade. This he followed until he was married. On February 17, 1850, he was married to Miss Susanah Leonard, a native of Davison County, N. C. Her parents were John A. and Lauina Leonard, of German descent; Susanah was born in 1828. Their union has been blessed with eight children, six of whom are living: Loretta, now Mrs. D. McDugul; Robert G., Sarah, Jennie, Annie, who is attending college and will soon graduate at Danville, Ind., and John N. Mr. Snodgrass is a staunch Democrat and iirmly believes in the principles of his party, but never sought pohtical honors.

p. H. Stanley, proprietor of the Brookfield Mills, and grain dealer, was born in Stokes County, North Carolina, October 30, 1824. He was the only son of John and Luc}' (Amos) Stanlev, the former the son of Christopher and Elizabeth (Smith ) Stanley. After a faithful service in the Revolution, Christopher married and settled in Botetourt County, Virginia. There he resided until the father of our subject, John Stanlev was about iifteen 3-ears of age, when he removed to Stokes County, N. C, where he passed away at the advanced age of eightv-four years. Shorth^ after the marriage of John Stanley, which occurred in 1822, he removed with his wife and son, to Jefferson Countv, Ind., landing at Madison in the fall of 1829, and in the spring of 1830, to Moral Township, locating in Section 13, on the west bank of Sugar Creek. Here he entered eighty acres and erected a log cabin, which he occupied for several years. B}^ hard and earnest toil he succeeded in developing a good farm which is owned to-day by our subject, E. H. Stanley. After long and useful lives John and Lucy Stanley were called away on almost the same date, that of the former, Februar}' 23, 1863, '^^^ the latter February 25, 1863. Our subject was a boy five vears of ao;e" when his father landed here, and has spent his entire life since in the township. His early education wasfair for that day of log school-houses. He was reared amid the scenes incident to farm life, and engaged in farming until 1861,, when he removed to Brookfield. and eno-acjed in merchandisino- and buvinj^ p-rain, which he has since largelv followed. On February 17, 1848, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Smith, daughter of James and Nancy (Vernon) Smith, old pioneers of this township. Mi-s. Stanley was born February 22, 1827, in Patrick County, N. C, and accompanied her parents to this county, when she was about four years of acfe. This family circle has been blessed with children, Mary J., Julia A., Amanda F., John J., Charles A., Nancy I>., and Andrew J., of whom the latter is deceased. The rest have all cn-own to maturity. Mr. and Mrs. Stanley and children, are members of the Missionary Baptist Church. Politicall}', Mr. Stanley in his youth, was reared a staunch Democrat, but changed his political views in 1854, when the great difference of opinion with reference to the extension of slavery was before the people. Since then he lii^te'' t'oted the Republican ticket, and has always taken an active part in politics, but has never sought political honors. He is a self made man, and what he is worth to-day, he has made by dint of industry and perseverance. To-day he owns the old home farm of over 200 acres, besides the Brookfield Mills and valuable residence property in Brookfield. He has adopted a straight forward course in life, which has won for him numerous friends, who speak of his sterling qualities as a citizen.

Noah F. Weaver, deceased, and at the time of his death a resident of Johnson County, was born in Vermont, June 7? 1806. His parents were Frederick and Mary (Morse) Weaver, natives of Vermont; the former was born, reared and died in Vermont. The latter was the daughter of Capt. Morse, who was a sea Captain, and descendants of the Morses of Colonial fame. Noah F. Weaver was united in marriage on June 22, 1831, to Lucy I. Wilkins, daughter of Uriah and Lucy (Wilkins) Wilkins, natives of New Hampshire, of English descent. They w^ere married in Vermont, where Lucy I. was born Februar}' 28, 181 5. In 1833, they emigrated to Ohio, and in 1835 settled in Bartholomew County, Indiana, thence to Jasper Count}', Indiana, where Mr. Wilkins was called away October 2, 1853. After his death, Mrs. Wilkins removed to White Count}', Ind., and passed away January 22, i860. Noah F. Weaver and wife,, were blessed with five children: Adaline L., Angeline L., Horace W., Charles F. and Mary J., of whom Angeline is deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Weaver were members of the Christian Church. In 1881, Mrs. Weaver removed to the farm, where she now resides, in Moral Township, and is irt fair health for one seventy-two years of age.

Horace Weaver, a prominent farmer and citizen of Moral Township, was born in Manchester, Bennington Co., Vt., August 13, 1836. His parents were Noah F. and Lucy I. (Wilkins) Weaver, both natives of Vermont, and of English descent, whose sketch is given abt)ve. At the age of nineteen our subject began life on his own responsibility by engaging to work by the month, and continued at this about two years, after which he began farming as a renter. Prior to this, or on February 26, 1857, he chose for his wife Lydia A. Tucker, daughter of Clark and Margaret (For- sythe) Tucker. Lydia was a native of Johnson County, where she spent her entire hfe, dying November 15, 1859. This union was blessed with one child: Luella, who is living, and the wife of Jesse M. Duckworth. After the death of his wife, Mr. Weaver continued to farm. Mr. Weaver was one of the first to answer to his country's call, and thinks he was the tenth man to enlist in Company H, Seventh Regiment Indiana Volunteers', under command of Col. Ebenezer Dumont, and Capt. Joseph P. Gill, for three months. They were enrolled April 21, 1861, and left Franklin about the first of May for Indianapolis, where they went into Camp Morton. In a few days they were ordered to West Virginia, and placed in the department of the Ohio, under the command of Gen. George B. McClellan, and took part in the West Virginia campaign, and in the battles of Phillipi, Laurel Hill, Cheat River and Garrick's Ford, and in August, 1861, received an honorable discharge and returned to Franklin. Mr. Weaver once more offered his services. This time he enlisted in Company G, Third Cavalry, under command of G. F. Herriott, with which he shared the vicisitudes of man}^ hard campaigns. On the march through North Carolina our subject was captured near Fayetteville, and was hurried to Richmond, Va., where he was held until the surrender. At the close of the war he was paroled and sent to Camp Chase, Ohio, and on June 18, 1865, he received an honorable discharge. Durinii" all those vears of hard fio-htincr he never received a wound, and returned home to enjoy the Union he had fought so bravely to preserve. After the close of the war he returned to Franklin, and once more returned to the farm. On October 28, 1867, he was married to Lucy E. McCaslin, daughter of James and Elizabeth McCaslin, who were pioneers of Johnson County. This famil}'' is blessed with seven children : Emma, Frank, Eddie, Ollie, Freddie, Alice and Bertha, of whom Freddie is deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Weaver are members of the Christian Church. Mr. Weaver is a member of FrankHn Lodge, F. & A. M., and of Acton Post No. 294, G. A. R. Pohtically, he is a staunch Repubhcan and firmly believes in the principles he fought for.

Noble Sketches

Benjamin Buxton was born in England, May i8, 1824. He was the fourth son of seven children, three daughters - and four sons. His parents, John and Sarah (Wright) Buxton, were both natives of England. When but eight years old, Mr. Buxton was left fatherless, and eight 3'-ears later his mother died, when he was thrown upon his own resources. He received some education at boarding-school prior to his mother's death. He worked as a carpenter for some time, then as a salesman for a wholesale dr}' goods house until 1847, when he came to America. He landed at New York, going from there to Albany b}' steamer, from there to Buffalo bv canal boat, and from there to Chicago, where he remained about a year, and then came to Shelby Count}', where he purchased land and located in 1849. He purchased 100 acres on the south bank of Flat Rock, where he has since resided. June 10, 1850, he married Miss Diana Avery, a native of this county, born March, 1826, the daughter of William and Hannah (Magoe) Avery, of English and Irish parentage, who were among the pioneers of this county. Mr. Buxton is the parent of eight children : Wilham J., born October 22, 1850, who is Recorder elect; Helen A., born March 22, 1852, wife of Hopkins Hoban; Evelena, born November 9, 1854, wife of Squire Cooper; Robert W., born August 30, 1862, who is now teaching school and running the home farm ; Elizabeth, Thomas M., Thaddeus E., Alfred M., the last three of whom are dead. Mr. Buxton and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Buxton is a stirring, energetic man; he owns now a farm of 340 acres of line land, well improved, and with line buildings upon it; he is one of the best farmers of his township. He is a member of the Democratic party, an honest, upright man, and one of the best of citizens.

William H. Craftox, a native of Decatur County, Ind., was born July 23, 1835. He was the eldest of seven children born to Thomas and Mary (Shirley) Crafton. Grandfather Crafton came to America from Ireland before the War of 1776, in which he served. Thomas Crafton was reared a farmer bov, and came to Decatur County early in life. He married Miss Shirle}- in 1834, who was a native of Indiana. In 1846, he located in Noble Township, Shelb}' County. He died just after the close of the late war, and his wife died in 1872. Both were members of the Baptist Church. William H. Crafton was reared on the farm, and had the advantages of a common school education. At the age of twent}'- one, he began life for himself as a farmer, which occupation he has followed through life. In March, 1874, ^^ entered his present home, where he owns 149 acres of improved land. In March, 1861, he married Miss Sarah E. Phillippe, born September 18, 1837, a daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth PhilHppe, natives of Virginia. Mrs. Crafton died September 15, 1872, leaving six small children : Pvlartha, wife of William G. Wasson, Mary, Allie, died age thirteen, Kate, Grant and Thomas. Mr. Crafton was married to his present wife, January 4, 1876, Miss Sarah Lawson, a native of Decatur Count}-, who was born December 25, 1847. Her par- ents were natives of Kentucky. By this marriage three children were born : Clyde, Nellie and Sherman. Mr. Crafton is one of the leading citizens of his township.

George W. Cuskaden was born in Ireland, November 23, 1830. His parents, Thomas and Bessie (Long) Cuskaden, were both natives of Ireland, born in 1803 and 1804, respectively. George Cuskaden was reared a farmer. He lived with his parents until October, 1852, when he started for America. He landed at New Orleans and found work there loading and unloading ships. He then visited several of the large cities and then went through the country selling goods. This enabled him to save a little money and he determined to become an American citizen and live a farmer's life. He worked as a farm hand and tended crops for some time, then rented a farm, and finally buying one in Noble Township. In 1857, he married Miss Charity Bartley, of Jasper Countv, daughter of John P. and Elsie (Allen) Bartle}^, of Welsh and Irish parentage. Mr. Cuskaden then purchased his present farm of 187 acres in Shelby County. He now owns a fine, large, and well improved farm. In politics he is a Democrat, and in the fall of 1878, was elected County Commissioner of third district. He was re-elected in 1884, also in 1886. Mrs. Cuskaden is a member of the Episcopal Church, and an active worker. They are the parents of nine children, seven now living: John, James A., Edmund, Esther, Sarah A., George R. and Nora. The father of , George, Thomas Cuskaden, after the death of his wife, came to America, where he resided with his son. He is a member of the Episcopal Church, and an honest. Christian man.

Morris Dilts was born in Ohio, December 18, 1837. He was the youngest of nine children born to Morris and Parmalia (Jenkins) Dilts. Morris Dilts, Sr., was reared a farmer boy in Kentucky, and had a common school education. He moved to Ohio with' his parents and lived there until 1869, when he moved to Shelby County, Ind. He then located at St. Paul where he is now living^ Morris Dilts, Jr., was also reared on a farm and had a common school education. When he became of age he started for himself in the pottery business. He then worked at farming until he enlisted in Company C, Sixteenth Regiment Indiana Volunteers. His compan}' was in Gen. Bank's Division under McClellan. He received an honorable discharge in May, 1862. He then engaged in stone (quarrying at St. Paul,lnd. He enlisted again in Lawrence County with Company A, Thirty-fourth Regiment Indiana Volunteers, and was at once taken to Kentucky, where active service was begun. They marched through Kentucky, Tennessee and Alabama. He was taken sick and moved back to Ohio. In 1867, he began farming at St. Paul, Ind., where he hved for seventeen years, and then located at Flat Rock. He now owns a fine farm of 160 acres. He is a member of the Democratic party and also a member of the G. A. R. He is the father of nine children : James, Harry, Rosa, Charles, Mary, Fredrick, Lewis, George, Renton. Mrs. Dilts is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Dilts is one of the representative men of his township.

Robert Elliott was born in Decatur County, Ind., July 8, 1826. He was the fifth born of nine children to Alexander and Rebecca (Ewing) Elliott. Alexander Elliott worked at the tanner's trade until the War of 181 2, when his brother was drafted, he then served several months as a substitute for him. After the war he married Miss Ewing, July 27, 1815- In 1824, he moved to Duck Creek, Decatur Count}-, where he entered land. He died March 21, 1878, at the age of eighty-four, and his wife in 1880. Robert Elliott was reared in Decatur County, within one and one-half miles of where he now lives. He was married July 11, 1847, to Miss Martha Neal, born in Boone County, Kv., in 1826. The spring after he was married, Mr. Elliott moved on the farm where he now lives. Mrs. Elliott died September 27, 1854, leaving two daughters: Rebecca and Elizabeth. Mr. Elliott married Ehzabeth Neal, his present wife, sister of his first wife, in 1856. She was born in this count}' May 25, 1838. By this marriage a son was born, Vanison, now a farmer. Mr. Elliott is now well off, owning a good deal of land mainly the fruit of his own hard work.

Jacob Feaster was born in Huntingdon County, Penn., December 14, 1816. His parents, Martin and Ann (Agelley) Feaster, both natives of Germany, born near Strasburg in 1776 and 1782, respectively, had ten children, six boys and four girls; three sons and one daughter are still living. Martin, the eldest son, served as a soldier under Bonaparte for a short time on the Rhine. He was furnished means by his father and came to America in 1799. While on board the ship he met Miss Agelley, and on arriving in America they were married. They located in Huntingdon County, Penn., and later in Bedford County, Penn., where he died in 1832, leaving eight small children. Jacob Feaster was brought up on a farm and received a very limited education. When sixteen years old his father died and he engaged as apprentice in the millwright trade, but three years later started out for himself. He came to Rush County, Ind., in 1837, where he worked at his trade and was soon foreman of a corps of hands. He worked at his trade until 1859, when he located upon his present farm. He now owns a farm of 172 acres of improved land worth $100 an acre. January 29, 1845, he married Miss Sarah A.

Pence, of Rush County, born in Warren County, Ohio, daughter of Lewis and Rachel (McDonald) Pence, natives of Virginia and Ohio. By this marriage seven children were born. Royal P., Manford, Leander, Lura, died aged two years, Allie J. and Rachel A. Mr. and Mrs. Feaster are respected by all who know them.

William A. Goodw^in, a native of Decatur County, Ind., was born February 20, 1846. He was the seventh born of twelve children, eight daughters and four sons, of whom seven daughters and four sons are still living. His parents, William and Mary (Elder) Goodwin, were born in Dearborn County, Ind., and Lincoln County, Ky., respectively. The parents of the former were of English and German descent, and were natives of Virginia. Those of the latter were natives of Virginia and Michigan, of Irish and English descent. William Goodwin came to Decatur County with his parents when a young man, they being among the first settlers in the county. He remained there until he was married June 16, 1832, to Miss Mary Elder, who came to the county with her parents in 1820. They both had a common school education and Mr. Goodwin taught school for several years. He would teach during the day and work at night, thus making mone}' enough to enter his first home, which was given by Andrew Jackson. He started on forty acres of woodland and by hard work succeeded in redeeming a good home. He sold this and purchased eighty acres, where he lived until 1851. He then sold out and located in Noble Township, purchasing there 160 acres where he resided the rest of his life. During his early life he followed flat-boating on the Ohio River. He was an active, hard working man of fine education and highl}' esteemed by all w^ho knew him. He died December 26, 1873, at the age of sixty-eight, and his wife September 17, 1871, at the age of sixty-one. William Goodwin, Jr., came to the county with his parents when but ten years old. He was reared on a farm, but had a common school education, also one year in the Milford Graded School, preparing himself for teaching, but when he became of age he began farming on his own responsibility. He worked his father's farm until he was twenty-seven years old, when he married Miss Emehne Shirly of Shelby County, daughter of Hardin and Cassandra (Moore) Shirly, natives of Kentucky. By this union three children were born: Alva, born June 16, 1873; Deusa, born December 14, 1874; Frank, born September 14, 1876. Mr. Goodwin located on the farm where he now lives, in 1873. It is well improved and consists of 160 acres, which when he entered was partially cleared. He is a scientific farmer and well posted. He is a p^ibHc spirited man and takes a great inter-

Rev. Samuel H. Gregory was born in Noble Township, April II, 1836, within two miles of where he now lives. His parents, Joel and Nancy (Springer) Gregory, were natives of Kentucky. He was reared on a farm and had a common school education. When nineteen years old he began life for himself, farming on rented land. He was married July 18, 1856, to Miss EHzabeth R. Hinkle, of Noble Township ; she was a daughter of Lewis and Saloma (Reed) Hinkle, who were of German parentage. Mr. Gregory followed farming until 187 1, when he commenced burning lime. Being successful in this, he has continued the business to the present time. He was called to the pulpit by Bishop Keenan, of the Methodist Episcopal Church, m 1876, and has been actively engaged in ministerial work ever since. He is the father of seven children: Wilbur, Sarah, McClellan, Carrie, Joe, Effie, Chester. His wife died August 18, 1887, after a long illness. Mr. Gregory is a man highly esteemed, of line qualities and noble character, and is an enthusiastic christian.

James Hendrickson was born in Mercer County, Kentucky, Mav 9, 1827. He was the youngest of six children, boi'h to James and Elizabeth (Navls) Hendrickson, natives of Virginia and North Carolina, respectively. His mother (Elizabeth) was of English and German parentage, his father of Welch parentage. His father, James Hendrickson, Sr., came to Kentucky when about sixteen years old. He was reared on a farm, and early learned to be industrious and honest. He was married early in life, and in 1827, moved to Shelby County, where he took up eighty acres of land. He assisted in the organization of his township, for he was among the early settlers, and in his time there were only Indian trails for roads. His wife was a great help to him in this hard life of the pioneer, she spun and wove flax, and wool, and in this way clothed the famil}'. Mr. Hendrickson was a Whig in politics, and an honest, upright man. He died in 1842, at the age of sixty-three. His wife Hved twenty years after his death and died in 1862, at the age of seventy-eight 3'ears. Mr. James Hendrickson, Jr., is the only living member of the family. He has spent his entire life in this township, having never been out of the State but once, when he visited some of the Western States. He was but six years old when he came to this count}- with his parents, and his father died Avhen he was fifteen, leaving him and his mother to take care of the farm, where he lived until he was married. He married Miss B. Dunn, born in Jefferson County, Indiana, December 7, 1829, -the daughter of Hosa and Elizabeth (Christie) Dunn, natives of Kentucky, of Enghsh and German parentage. They had ten children: Sarah J., John P., Mary E., Ruth W., Lewis M., Susan A., Joseph M., James U., Melissa A. and Harvey Rosco. Mr. Hendrickson resided on the old farm until his mother's death, when he purchased his present home in 1864. He now owns a farm of 160 acres of improved land, mainlv the fruit of his own labor. He is a member of the Republican part}-, and one of the hard workers of his township. He is a member of the Presbyterian Baptist Church, a hard working, honest man and highly esteemed by all who know him.

William R. Hinkle was born in this township September 25, 1S38. His parents were both natives of Butler County, Ohio. He was the eldest of live children, three sons and two daughters. Plis parents and grandparents were of German parentage. His great-grandfather was killed by the Indians shortly after coming to this countrv. The father of William Hinkle was reared in Ohio, and remained there until 1S37, when he came to Shelby County, locating west of St. Paul. He served as Township Trustee, and was a member of the Baptist Church. Wilham Hinkle was reared on a farm and received a common school education. His mother died when he w^as seven years old. He remained at home until he was twentv-one years old, when he was married, October 6, 1859, to Miss Hannah M. Weidner, who was born in Butler County, Ohio, March i, 1840, daughter of John and Catharine (Miller) Weidner, natives of Buder County, Ohio, of German descent. By this marriage there were five children: Mary C, died, aged two years; Sarah E., born September 29, 1862; John L., born October 14, 1864; Florence E., born July 15, 1869, and Samuel H., born May 9, 1874. Soon after his marriage, Mr. Hinkle purchased the place where he now resides. He is a Democrat in principles, though liberal in home elections. He and his wife are active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and have been in the church for upwards of thirty years. He has acted as Superintendent of the Sunday School the greater part of this time.

Thomas Hoban, ex-Representative, was born in Ireland in 1822. His parents, John and Mariah (Grime) Hoban, natives of Ireland, had four children, three sons and a daughter. While the children were very young their mother died, and not long after Thomas came to America with his father. In 1833, he went to live with Mr. Henry McMurry of Delaware County, N. Y., with whom he lived six years, going to school some of the time. He then went to Connecticut where he worked for three years, then peddled, making his way back to New York. He was married April 12, 1843, to Miss Donzilla Crosby, daughter of Hopkins and Elizabeth

(Weed) Crosby, of New York and Connecticut, respectively. Soon after Mr. Hoban was married, he purchased forty acres of hind in Delaware Count}', N. Y., where he lived for several years, x^fter this he owned several small farms. He moved to Shelby County in 1850, and bought the farm where he now lives, in 1857. It is located on the south bank of the Flatrock. He is an active worker in the Democratic ranks, and served as Township Trustee from 1865 to 1870. He also was elected as Representative in 18S4. Tired of political life he is now farming and stock raising. He is the father of nine children, seven now living: John, Hopkins, Anthony, Theodore, Calvin, Mariah and EHzabeth. Mr. Hoban's first wife died June 22, 1879, ^"*^ ^^ married again in June, 1882, Mrs. Oliva (Barlow) Keisling, born in Indiana, May, 1843. Mr. Hoban is a man of great public enterprise and is highly respected.

John Howard came to Noble Township in 1854, '^"^ took up forty acres of land near where he now lives; previous to this time he had lived in Decatur on a rented farm, and before he went to Decatur he lived at Brandy wine, in this county. He now owns a ijood farm of 280 acres, the fruit of his industry and economy. He has built an elegant residence and other farm buildings. In 1852, January 22, he married Miss Mary E. Pullen, who was born near Oxford, Ind., October 15, 1832. She was the daughter of William and Martha Pullen, of Irish and German parentage. The}' were both reared in Virginia, and came to Indiana in 1832, and came to Shelby County in 185 1. By this marriage nine children were born, of whom seven are now living : Dennis C, James W., Sarah J., Jesse, Martha, Orthoe and Oscar. Mrs. Howard is a member of the Baptist Church and a fine christian woman-. Mr. Howard's father was born in 1795, August 21, in Camel County, Ky. He lived in Ohio the greater part of his life on a farm. He married Miss Martha Baldrige in 1818. She was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., in 1798. He came to Decatur County in 1834, ^vhere he purchased a small farm. He hved there until 1875, and then moved to Noble Township. He was a Democrat, and served as County Assessor for nine years. He died January 19, 1882, at the age of eightyseven. His wife died one year before this. These worthy people have three sons now living, of whom John Howard is the eldest. Stephen lives in this county and Nicholas in Livingston County, Mich. John Howard \^''as born in Ohio, August 14, 1824. He is a thorough business man and a member of the Democratic party.

Francis W. Jones was born in Knaba County, April 11, 1825. His parents, Uriah and Jane Jones, were natives of Virginia, and Ireland, of English and Irish parentage. His father was a farmer and served in the War of 1812. He died in 1842, leaving seven children, Francis Jones was then seventeen years old, and on him devolved the support of the family. The mother died in 1850. Francis, and his sister Rebecca, are the only children now living. He was married to Miss Eleanor Johnston, of this count}-, daughter of Henry and Margaret (Marshall) Johnston, natives of South Carolina. Mr. Jones bought the home farm and owns besides, 308 acres of good land. He is the father of four children, one son and three daughters: Amos L., Margaret J., Henrietta, and Mary. Mrs. Jones died June 18, 1886. She was a member of the Separate Baptist Church. Mr. Jones is also a member of this church.

Rev. John Keeling, a native of Washington County, Ky., was born July 28, 18 10. His parents, James and Mary Keeling, were natives of Kentucky, of Scotch and German parentage. Rev. Keehng came to Shelby County with his parents when seven years old. He was married January 30, 1S31, to Miss Rebecca Farrall, who was a native of Virginia, born August 25, 1808. She was the daughter of John and Eleanor Farrall, of Virginia, of Irish parentage. Mr. Keeling was taught industry in early life, and was a hard working man. He started in life ver}- poor, but by hard work saved some money and entered eighty acres of land at Flatrock. He lived here nineteen years, then sold out and w^ent to Switzerland Countv, where he first began doing ministerial work in 1S40, with the Separate Baptists. After this he moved to his present home, where he owns 100 acres of well cultivated land. During the last three 3'ears he has accepted no regular pastoral work, but previous to this time had three or four churches. He has been a great revivalist. He is the father of eight children, three sons and five daughters. Rev. Keeling and wife are among the leading citizens of their county, and highly esteemed by all who know them.

Jonathan H. Lowe is a native of Decatur County, Ind. He was born May 30, 1830, the second born of six children, three sons and one daughter now^ Hving. His parents, Jonathan and Elizabeth (Vance) Lowe, were both natives of Kentucky, born in 1803 and and 1796, respectively, of English and German parentage. Jonathan was a farmer, and in early Hfe came with his people to Indiana, where he married Mrs. (Whittman) Vance. In 1828, he located three miles south of Greensburg, where he lived a pioneer's life. He entered 200 acres of land and had a nice home started, when he died, being only thirty-five years of age. He was a Whig in politics, and belonged to the Baptist Church. He left five small children. His wife died in 1878, at the age of eightytwo. Jonathan Lowe, Jr., was reared a farmer boy, receivng a limited education. He took charge of the farm and remained with his mother until 1857, when he married Miss Charity A. James, a native of Rush County, born October 11, 1S39. She was the daughter of Walter and Nancy (Cones) James, natives of Pennsylvania and Kentuck}', of Irish and Scotch parentage. Soon after his marriage Mr. Lowe bought a farm of his own near his old home, where he lived until 1859. He then engaged in business with his brother for a short time, and then removed to this count}^ where he has since resided, except eight 3'ears he lived in Decatur Countv. His present farm contains 260 acres of highly improved land. He is a Prohibitionist, but was formerlv a Democrat. He has a familv of eight children: William J., Walter S., Henrv V., Alpheus C, Charity A., John A., Xancy E. and Joseph P. Mr. and Mrs. Lowe are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Matthias 'Mount, a native of Shelby County, Ky., was born August 12, 181 7. He was the second born of six children to P. J. and Elizabeth P. (Woodward) Mount. Thomas Mount was born near New Lexington, Ky., Ma}' 18, 1794. He served in the War of 181 2. In February, 181 5, he married Miss Woodward, who was born in Virginia, March 24, 1793. He went to Washington Countv, Ind., in 1818, where he lived a frontier life. He then went to Olden County, then to Decatur Countv, and finally settled in Shelby County, where he entered land in 1834. ^^^ built the second brick house in the township, burning his own brick. He had a nice home nearlv completed when he died May 30, 1842, aged forty-eight years. He was a Democrat, and a member of the regular Baptist Church. His wife survived him until Januarv 26, 1863. She was seventy years old when she died. JNIatthias Mount was reared a farmer boy in Kentucky. He was seventeen years old when he came to this count}', and he helped his father in the construction of their home. He remained with his father until his death, working at teaming in the winter and staving on the farm in summer. December 15, 1842, he married Miss Margaret Marsh, a native of Butler Countv, Ohio, born December 24, 1824. She was the daughter of John R. and Elizabeth (Baker) Marsh, natives of Ohio and New Jersey, respectiveh'. Bv this marriage ten children were born, of whom four are now^ living: Thomas J., born x\ugust 24, 1845; Martha J., wife of Sidney Hanks, of Iowa; Amos H., born November 5, 185 1, and Emma, born Februar}- 12, 1864. Mr. Mount still lives on the old farm where he has erected fine brick buildings. He is a member of the Democratic party, and is a strong advocate of temperance. He also takes a great interest in school work. He. served as Township Trustee under the old law. He and his wife are highlv esteemed wherever known.

Louis Neibert was born in Wertimburg, Germany, February 4, 1829. He was the youngest child of four children, two sons and two daughters, born to Christopher and Christena Neibert, both natives of Germany. Christopher Neibert was a shoemaker, and followed this occupation throughout his life. He died in 1834, at the age of fifty-two, and his wife in 1836, at the age of fiftyseven. The}^ were members of the Lutheran Church. Louis Neibert, when seven years old, was left an orphan and lived with his grandfather. He attended school until fourteen years old, and when twent3^-one years old, came to America. He located at Cincinnati, where he was very poor, and engaged in gardening for a few years. He then worked west from Cincinnati. In 1858, he married Miss Sarah Cole, who was born March 10, 1840, daughter of Abner Colee, of this township. Mr. Neibert, soon after his marriage, located in this township, and located on a rented farm. In 1868, he purchased his present home; he now owns 185 acres of improved land. He is the father of eleven children, eight girls and three bovs. Arabelle, Hannah, Lorinda, John, Chnstena, Mary, Bertha, Dallas, Cora, Ella, Roscoe. Mr. Neibert belongs to the Republican party, and is a highly respected citizen.

William Reed was born in Butler Count}^ Ohio, September 20, 1830. He was the second son born to George and Mary (Zerver) Reed, both natives of Pennsylvania. They came to Decatur in 1836, and bought 240 acres of land. Three ^--ears later thev moved to Noble Township. George Reed was a careful business man and fine farmer. He was a member of the Democratic part}^ He died in March, 1875, aged seventy-three, and his wife in 1869, aged sixty-five. Wilham Reed was employed in his youth in helping his father on the farm, and received only a limited education. In 1849, October 14, he married Miss Christena Auspach, of Decatur County. She was born August 20, 183 1, and was a daughter of Jacob and Edena (Israel) Auspach, natives of New York. They had ten children, Lewis, Allen M., Eleanor, Malinda, Mattie, 'Frank, Jacob, Georgiean, Hattie and Mollie. Shortly after his marriage Mr. Reed rented a farm, where he lived for thirt}^ years. During this time he saved enough money to buy the home where he now lives. It consists of 186 acres of fine land. He bought it in 1880, and began hving on it in 18S3. He built a fine house and has now one of the best houses in the county. He is a member of the Democratic party, and also belongs to the Freemasons. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.

of James, was born in Virginia, in 1775? ^^^ served unden Gen. Anthony Wavne. John Taylor when but seven years of age moved with his parents to Ripley County. He was reared a farmer's son but had the advantage of a common school education. At the age of seventeen he commenced to teach school, and followed this occupation for three years, and working on the farm at the same time. He then began the study of medicine with Dr. James R. Lewis, of Canaan. He remained with him three years, attending lectures at the medical school at Cincinnati, Ohio, in the meantime, where he graduated with honors in 1869. He located at Cross Plains, Ripley County, where he remained until the fall of 1874. He then moved to Geneva where he has since resided. He has had an extensive practice, and is highly esteemed by all who know him. In April, 18S5, he married Mrs. Hattie Akers, of Ripley County, a highly accomplished lady. She was a suffererer from consumption, and died April 18, 1887!

James B. Thornburg is a native of Noble Township. His father, Thomas Thornburg, was born in jNIifflin County, Pennsylvania, November 4, 1805. He married Miss Berry, February 22, 1833. They had seven children, of whom James was the fourth born. In 1837, Thomas Thornburg came to Shelby County, where he purchased a small farm. By hard work he succeeded in increasing this farm, until he had upwards of 600 acres of good land. He succeeded in life, so that in his last days he lived as a retired farmer. He died January 11, 1884, and his wife in the same year, August 21. They were among the leading citizens of their township. James Thornburg was born September 7, 1841. He lived at home until he was twenty-seven years old, when he married Miss Mary D. Benson, who was born in Noble Township, November 20, 1843. She was a daughter of John W. and Mary J. (Clark) Benson, natives of North Carohna and Pennsylvania, respectively. In 1882, he purchased his present farm in Decatur County, v/here he owns 200 acres. He is the father of four children: Ira A., John, Charlie M. and Nellie J. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a fine farmer and has made life a success.

James Wassox was born in Kentucky, December 13, 1831. He was the eldest of eight children born to George C. and Sarah (Harper) Wasson, both natives of Kentuck}', born November 9, 1806, and August 27, 1829, respectively. George C. Wasson came north from Kentucky, in the fall of 1834. He entered the ministry early in life, and was always an active worker in Separate Baptist Church. He died at the age of forty-six in 1852, and his wife in 1854, at the age of forty-five. He 'left several small children of whom four sons and two daughters are still hving. Nancy, Melvina, WilHam and John of this township, and Hardin of Washington Count}'. James Wasson was reared on the farm where he now lives, and being the eldest son, assisted in taking care of the farm. At his mother's death he took charge of the homestead, and when the children came of age bought their interest. He married Miss Mary Goodwin in 1852. She was born in Decatur County, April 2, 1831, and was the daughter of Wilham and Mary (Elder) Goodwin. He began life very poor, but has now a nice home. A great deal is due to Mrs. Wasson, who has worked hard and made beautiful their pleasant home.

James Wasson, Township Trustee, was born December 31, 183S. His parents, John J. and Polly (Harper) Wassor, were both natives of Bourbon Count}', Ky,, the former born December 5, 1810, of Irish and German parentage; the latter born December 24, 181 2, of English parentage. John Wasson was reared in his native county a farmer boy, and received a common school education. He married Miss Harper in 1829, who was reared in the same county. They moved north to Indiana in October, 1833, where Mr. Wasson bought land and lived for a few years. He then moved two miles north of Shelby County. He assisted in laying out the roads of his township. He died March 2, 1875, aged sixty-five years. He was a member of the Baptist Church for over thirty years. James Wasson was reared as a farmer and received a limited education in the common schools. He remained at home with his parents until twenty-six years of age, when he married Miss Mary E. Hill September 22, 1864; she is a native of Noble Township, born August 24, 1845, and is the daughter of John C. and Barbara (Kennedy) Hill, natives of Indiana and Kentucky, respectively. They had eight children : Walter, Curtis, Arthur, Barbara, Otis, Prudence, Marshall and Bessie. Mr. Wasson worked the home farm for five years after his marriage and then located in Noble Township, where he resided sixteen years, and then located on the farm where he now lives. Mr. Wasson is a staunch Democrat, and an active worker. He was elected Township Trustee in 1886. He takes a great interest in school work. He and his wife are members of the Baptist Church.

George Wright is a native of Englan4, born March 11, 1835. He was the seventh born of ten children - five sons and five daughters. His parents, WilHam and Ehzabeth (Gould) Wright, were both natives of England. William Wright was a farmer, and was one of the self-made men. He reared nine children to manhood and womanhood, eight of whom are now living. He was a member of the Episcopalian Church. George Wright was reared on a farm, and received a good education. He remained home until sixteen vears old, when he started for x\merica, November 2, 1852. He Avent to live with his brother in this countv. Having limited means, he set out to find work. He found work on a farm, and later in life bought the farm, where he has since resided. He married Mary Avery in 1855; born in this county September 19, 1836, the daughter of George and Sophia (Bartley) Averv - the former born in Auroa, N. Y., in iSoo, the latter in Adams Countv, Ohio, in 1812, who 'were among the early settlers of this countv. Bv this marriage three children were born : Frank Carlton, born Mav 20, 1856; Albert William, born October 16, 1861; Sophia E., born August 3, 1864. Mrs. Wright died Februar}- 5, 1872, from consumption. She belonged to the Presbyterian Baptist Church. Mr. Wright was married again on June 3, 1873, to Miss Ellen Short, who was born in Hamilton County, Ohio, March 31, 1S40, the daughter of Thomas K. Short and Sarah Allen, both natives of England. Mr. Wright's present home is on the left bank of Flat Rock, and he has one of the most beautiful homes in the township. ]Mr. and Mrs. Wright are Universalists in belief.

Shelby Sketches

William Amos, an honored pioneer of Shelby Countv, was born in Bourbon Count}-, Ky., June 30, 1S16. He was the seventh of eleven children - four sons and seven daughters - born to Elijah and Rebecca (Neal) Amos, the former a nati\e of Marvland, of Dutch and Irish descent. When he was twelve vears of ajj^e he accompanied his parents to Rush County, Ind., and settled with them upon a farm. There his youth was spent assisting his father to clear and cultivate the farm. At nineteen vears of aije. or about 1835, he came to this count}-, a resident of which he has been ever since. His life occupation has been that of a farmer. His place of residence has chiefly been in Addison Township. He has resided where he now lives in Shelbv Township but two vears. His first marriage occurred in Febr-aarv, 1837, when oNIarv Treece became his wife. She was a native of Ohio, and was the daughter of Jacob Treece. She died Februarv i, 1869, and Februarv 10, 1870, he was married to Mrs. Mary Wood, who was born in the State of Ohio, September 31, 1S35, and was the daughter of William and Cyntha (Jackson) Cherrv, both natives of Ohio. The first marriage of Mr. x\mos resulted in the birth of eleven children: Rebecca J., Mohala, Sarah, Elizabeth, Thomas, William, Cassie, John, Milton, Perry, and a daughter that died in infancy. Of those named, William, Cassie, John and Milton, are deceased. His second marriage has resulted in the birth of two children : Anna M. and Elisha, both of whom are living. In politics Mr. x\mos is a Republican.

Jacob Emrich, a prominent citizen of Shelby Township, is a native of Hesse Darmstadt, Germany, where he was born November 20, 1S24, being the eldest of a family of seven children born to Peter and Christina (Schneider) Emrich, who were also natives of Germany. Jacob grew to manhood in his native countrv. He received a common school education. He remained at home and assisted his parents, they being farmers, until he reached the age of twent3--three 3-ears. i\pril 7, 1847, his marriage with Mary Hartwein was solemnized, and to their union five children were born, viz.: Catharine, Christine, Elizabeth, Mary, Chapman and John. In 1855, Mr. Emrich and family emigrated to the United States, coming immediatel}' to Shelby County. September 8, 1865, he lost his beloved wife by death. September, 1866, his and Phebe ("Mohr) Lambert's marriage was celebrated; to their union these two children have been born: Margaret and Jacob. Mr. Emrich has always made farming his occupation, and he has been quite successful. He now owns 290 acres of well improved land. He and wife are members of the Lutheran Church. In politics he is a Democrat.

James V. B. Fix, a farmer of Shelby Township, was born in Washington Township, this county. May 16, 1S31. He was the eldest of ten children, live sons and five daughters, born to Aaron and Margaret A. (Van Benthuson) Fix, the former a native of Montgomery County, Ohio, born of Dutch and Scotch-Irish descent, in 1809, and the latter a native of New York Cit}-, born of French and German descent, in iSii. His paternal grandparents were Philip and Abigail (Hays) Fix, the former a native of Pennsylvania. His maternal grandparents were James and Susan (Smith) Van Benthuson, the former a native of the State of New York. He became a resident of Shelby Count}- in an earl}' day, and was a member of the Constitutional Convention in 1852, and, while in attendance in that body, he died from an attack of the cholera. The subject of this sketch was reared upon a farm in this county, and, at the age of twenty-one, or August 20, 1852, he was married to Reuland Randolph. Immediately after their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Fix removed to Owen County, this State, where the latter died in November, 1S54. In March, 1857, Mr. Fix emigrated to the State of Kansas, but in 1858, he returned to Owen County, and September 22d, of that year, he was married to Mahala Burket. Shortly after that marriage, Mr. and Mrs.

Fix came to Shelby County, and located in Washington Township, but a year later they removed to Addison Township, now Shelby, and se'ttled upon the farm Mr. Fix now occupies. His second wafe died March 28, 1874, and on the 13th day of August, 1875, Mr. Fix was married to Abigail A. Carney, a native of Bartholomew Count}^, this State, born April 16, 1857, and daughter of John and Susan (Fix) Carney, the former a native of Ohio, and the latter a native of Bartholomew^ County, this State. The second marriage of Mr. Fix resulted in the birth of seven children, as follows: Margaret G., born September 29, 1859, died October 18, 1877; John A., born January 31, 1862; Stephen S., born July 9, 1864; James R., born October 15, 1866; Charles F., born April 17, 1869; William M., born November 2, 1871; and Walter W., born December 2, 1873, died July 23, 1874. ^^^ ^"'^ ^i^ present wife are the parents of tw^o children: Vorhees M., born April 18, 1876, and Emma L., born March 8, 1878. Mr. Fix is a member of the I. O. O. F. Lodge, and in politics he is a staunch Democrat. He was elected to the office of Justice of the Peace in Addison Township in 1876, and served four years.

Washington Greene is a native of Shelby Township, born October 13, 1836, the eldest of a family of four children, two sons and two daughters, born to Henr}' and Catharine (Zell) Greene, who were natives of Stokes County, N. C, and Botetourt County, Va., respectively. Our immediate subject grew to manhood on the home farm, remaining at home and assisting his parents on the farm until he attained the age of twent^'-two years, receiving a common education, sufficient to enable him to teach, which he did for several terms. November 25; 1858, his marriage with Margaret J. Hite was solemnized, and to their union three children have been born, of whom these two are now living: Chas. H. and Mary C. The deceased child w'as Franklin, who died in his twenty-third year, his death being caused by over study while in attendance at DePauw University. Mr. Greene has always made farming his occupation, and he has been quite successful. He now owns 125 acres of well improved land. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was formely identified with the Grange movement. In pohtics he is a Democrat, but a man of pronounced temperance views, and will ardently support a prohibitory amendment.

John B. Lantz, an old citizen of Shelby Township, is a native of Boone County, Ky., where he was born February i, 1810, being the fifth son of Martin and Polh^ (Arnold) Lantz, who were natives of Botetourt County, Va., and Bourbon County, Ky., respectively. The former died in Kentuck}^, and the latter removed to Illinois, and died there. Our immediate subject was reared in his native county, receiving a very limited education. In 1834, he removed to Decatur County, where he lived until 1861, when he came to Shelby Count}^ where he has since lived. In April, 1833, his marriage with Jane W. Arnold was solemnized, and to their union eight children were born, these four now living: Moses, who married Susan Louden; Jefferson, whose wife was Hannah Palmington; John, who espoused Eliza Knight, and Geneva, now Mrs. Thomas Jackson. December 11, 1867, Mr. Lantz suffered the bereavement of losing his beloved wife. April 8, 1885, his and Fiona Shane's nuptials were celebrated. Mr. Lantz has always made farming his principal occupation, and he has been quite successful. He now owns 400 acres of well improved land. In faith he is a Baptist, but is not a member of the church. In politics he is a Democrat. Mr. Lantz has always enjoyed hunting, and formerly participated in a great many fox chases.

James Messick, a farmer of Shelby Township, was born in Addison Township this count}', January 7, 1838, the elder in a family of two children born to Covington and Nancy (Robinson) Messick, who were both natives of Delaware. The former died January 7, 1839, his widow survived him and died about 1854. A short time before the death of the latter our immediate subject had gone to live with John M. Tindall on the farm, with whom he remained nearly eight years. ' He received a limited education such as the facilities of those days afforded. Upon leaving the home of Mr. Tindall he worked as a farm hand for two years, when in November 30, 1862, he realized the necessity of the preservation of our Union and enhsted in Company A, Sixteenth Indiana Regiment V^olunteer Infantry, serving until May, 1863, when he was honorably discharged at Washington, D. C. July 29, 1864, his marriage with Arminta Maple was solemnized, and to their union these two children have been born: John R., and Eva G., aged respectively 23 and 17. Mr. Messick has always made farming his occupation, and he has been very successful. He now owns 160 acres of well improved land, all the accumulation of his industry and economy. In politics he is a staunch RepubHcan, and he always manifests a good Hve interest in the pohtical affairs of the county and communit}- in which he lives, where he enjoys the respect and esteem of all who know him.

William Newton, of Shelb}^ Township, is a native of Philadelphia, Penn., where he was born, November 6, 1815, beiog the sixth in a family of nine children, born to John and Isabel (Owens) Newton who were natives of England and Pennsylvania, respectively. About 181 7 or 1 818, the family removed to Preble County,

Ohio, where the parents made their home until their death. Our subject was reared to manhood there, receiving a very limited education, in consequence of the death of his father at the age of sixteen vears, and he had to take charge of the farm, his older brothers having gone to do for themselves. October 4, 1837, his marriage with Sarah A. Gra}^ was solemnized, and to their union six children have been born, of whom these four are now living: Emaline, Mary E., Margaret and Camille. About 1857, Mr. Newton came to Shelb}- County and established a saw mill, in partnership with James Gra}', at w'hich he continued for about ten years. In 1868, he moved to the farm on which and w^here he since lived, since which time he has made farming his occupation, and he has been quite successful. He now^ owns 100 acres of well improved land. He and wife are members of the Universalists Church. He belongs to the I. O. O. F., having united with that order over forty 3'ears ago, he now belongs to Waldron Lodge No. 197. Under the call for thirty day men, he enlisted in the ser\'ice of his countr}-, and served that length of time in Compan}^ A, Seventysixth Regiment of Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He now belongs to the G. A. R. In politics he is a Republican.

Shelby Stafford, a leading farmer of Shelby Township, is a native of Scott Count}^, Ky., where he was born October 28, 1819, being the next voungest in a family of twelve children born to James and Mary (Leach) Stafford, "who were natives of Virginia and Maryland, respectiveh'. The}' emigrated to Indiana and Shelb}^ Count}^, in 1S31, settled six miles south of Shelby ville, in what was then Addison, now" Shelby, Township. They ever afterward remained residents of the count}" until their deaths. Our immediate subject grew to manhood in this county, remaining at home and assisting his parents on the farm, clearing and culti\'ating, until he attained the age of twenty-three years. Owing to the fact that his help was needed on the farm, and in lieu of the poor facilities afforded children of those days, he obtained no education. September 22, 1842, his marriage with Mirinda Vansiock was solemnized. This marriage was of short duration, her death occurring April 17, 1843. March 28, 1844, ^^^ ^""^ Maria (Izor) Rodehefer's nuptials w^ere celebrated. He has always made farming his occupation and by industry and economy he is the proprietor of forty acres of well improved land. He and wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church, having united with that organization over thirty-three years ago. In politics he is a Republican, but a man of pronounced temperance views and will heartily support a prohibitory amendment.

was raised onthe farm where he was born, November 29, 1841, beinff the vounirest in a family of four children born to Tilson and Rachel (Worland) Wheeler, who were natives of Madison and Favette Counties, Kentuck}-. The former was born January 15, 1801, the son of John and Susanna (Tivis) Wheeler. They were both natives of Maryland. Tilson Wheeler came to Shelby Count}^ in 1822, and settled on the farm upon which he continued to reside until his death, which occurred March 28, 1876. He lirst entered a tract to which he continued to add by purchase until at the time of his death, he was the proprietor of 629 acres of improved land and was one of the largest farmers. He was a member of the Catholic Church, and always lived a devout Christian life. He was the father of four childern of whom these three now survive him: Virlinda, now Mrs. W. E. Higgins; Ceha, widow of William Crawford, and John L., our subject, who has always lived on the home farm. He received a limited education in consequence of poor health preventing him from attendance. November 19, 1878, his marriage with Ellen E. Farrell was solemnized, and to their union five children have been born, viz.: James Tilson, Rachel, Mary T., Susan G., and Thomas V. Mr. Wheeler has made farming his life occupation and he has been quite successful. He now owns 305 acres of well improved land. The family are members of the Catholic Church. In politics he is a staunch Democrat, and always manifests a good Hve interest in the poHtical affairs of the county and community in which he lives, where he was honored with an election to the position Justice of the Peace but did not serve.

WooDSOX WooDARD, an old citizen of Shelby Township, is a native of Addison Township, born September 23, 1828, being the sixth of a family of ten children, eight now living, born to James and Elizabeth (Nave) Woodard, who were both natives of Kentucky, their marriage occurring in Jessamine County, Ky. They came to Indiana and Shelby County about 1827; they remained residents of this county until i852,\vhen they removed to Wisconsin, where they lived "until their deaths. Our immediate subject remained at home and assisted his parents until he attained the age of twenty-three years, with the exception of the summer of 1849, which he spent in Wisconsin. He received a very limited education, such as the faciHties of those days afforded, and was not really permitted to take advantage of such as were given, as his parents needed his help. x\pril, 1850, his marriage with Louisa Lackey w^as solemnized, and to their union four children were born : Thomas, Edward, John and Robert. In 1859, Mr. Woodard was bereaved by the death of his wife. November, i860, his and Anna R. Greene's nuptials were celebrated, and their union has been blessed with this one child, Emma, now Mrs. WilHam Debusk. Mr. Woodard has always made farming his occupation, and he has been quite successful. He now owns 120 acres of well improved land. He belongs to the Masonic fraternity. In politics he is a staunch Republican. He is a member of the Agricultural Society and served two years as Vice President of that association. He was instrumental in the building, and is a large stockholder in, the Lewis Creek and Shelbyville Pike.

Sugar Creek Sketches

John Bowman, a farmer of Sugar Creek Township, was born in Moral Township, this county, December 9, 1835. ^^^ was the elder of two children, a son and daughter, born to Christopher and Catharine (Scott) Bowman, the former a native Shenandoah County, Va., of German descent. The parents of his father were Daniel and Anna (Reaser) Bowman, both natives of German}^ He was reared upon a farm in his native township, and at the age of twenty-one, he took up the avocation of a farmer for himself. In September, 1861, he entered the service of the Union Army as a private in Company I, Fifty-first Indiana Volunteers, commanded by Col. A. D. Streight. He was soon afterward commissioned as Second Lieutenant, in which capacity he served until February 13, 1863, when the impaired state of his health compelled him to resign. He participated in the siege of Corinth, after which he accompanied his regiment to Stephenson, Ala. From this point the regiment followed Gen. Bragg on a forced march to Louisville, K.y. On leaving the army he engaged in the book agency business at Indianapolis. About a year later he returned to Shelby County, and he engaged in the manufacture of tobacco, in partnership with William L. Mason. He thus continued about fifteen months, when he engaged in the retail grocery business in Indianapolis. In May, 1865, he sold out, and in the following October came to this county, and located in Sugar Creek Township, in w^hich he has ever since resided. Since then, his entire attention has been given to agricultural pursuits. He was married August II, 1864, to Fannie A. M. McGuire, a native of Marion Count}-, Ind., born November 15, 1836. She was the daughter of John D. and Ehzabeth (Lyons) McGuire, both natives of Kentuck}-. Mr. and Mrs. Bov»^man are the parents of two children: Frank A., born May 2, 1873, and Maude M., born April 22, 1878, died August 23, 1879. Mr, Bowman is a member of the Baptist Church, and she is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The former is a member of the G. A. R., and is an ardent Republican in poli-

Willis Francis, an old and honored citizen of Sugar Creek Township, was born in Bourbon Countv, K3'., May 14, 1814. He was the fifth of eleven children, five sons and six daughters, born to William and Sarah (Hardesty) Francis, the former a native of Fairfax County, Va., of Welsh descent, and the latter a native of Bourbon County, K^^, of English descent. When he was seven years of age, he accompanied his parents to Boone Countv, Ky., and in 1831, he came with them to this count}^ and settled in the wilds of Sugar Creek Township. He continued with his parents until he became of age. In 1837, he went to Gallatin Countv, Kv., where he was married September, 1844, to Rhoda Ann Hatfield, a native of. Spencer Countv, Kv., born January 19, 1821, and daughter of William and Elizabeth (Gregory-) Hatfield, the former a native of England and the latter a native of Virginia. In 1850, Mr. and Mrs. Francis removed to Louisville, where the former engaged at merchandising. There they continued to live happily together until their union was broken by the death of Mrs. Francis, February 12, 1871. In the spring of 1876, Mr. Francis returned to the old homestead in this county, where he continued to reside until in March, 1886. Since then he has occupied another farm in that township. He is the father of four children, as follows: Edwin, Anna, Emma and James, of whom Anna is deceased. The other three children are residents of Dallas, Texas. Mr. Francis is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, the K. of H. Lodge, and a Democrat in politics. '

Thomas Francis, an honored citizen of Sugar Creek Township, was born in Clark County, Kentuck}^, July 17, 1819. He was the third of twelve children, seven sons and five daughters, born to Jesse and Catharine (Lowman) Francis, the former a native of Virginia, of Welsh descent, and the latter was a native of the City of Baltimore, of English and Pennsylvania Dutch descent. His father was the son of Thomas Francis, who was a native of Wales. His mother's father was John Lowman. When he was about three years old his parents removed to Lexington, Kentucky, and three 3-ears later located in Boone County, where he was reared upon a farm. His father died in that count}'-, in November, 1835. In 1838, he accompanied his widowed mother to Lawrenceburg, this State, where he entered upon an apprenticeship, to learn the carpenter's trade; after finishing this, he continued to work at that trade, in LawTcnceburg, until 1871, when he came to Shelby County, and located in the village of Fairland. A few months later he located upon the farm he now occupies. Since coming to this county, his chief occupation has been that of a farmer. His first marriage occurred August 27, 1843, when Mar}- A. Preston became his wife. She was born in the State of Ohio, and was the daughter of Jonathan and Lydia (Fr}-) Preston. She died October 3, 1864, and on the 9th day of April, 1865, Mr. Francis was married to Susan A. Butler, born in Switzerland Count}^ this State, September 15, 1839. She was the daughter of James and Ann (Fry) Butler. The first marriage of Mr. Francis resulted in the birth of eight children, as follows: Lewis E., Lydia C, Mary J., Susanna, Laura E., the next was a son that died in infancy, Isabella and Martha J., of whom Mar}- J., Susanna and Martha J. are deceased. He and his present wife are the parents of five children : Annie Mav, Ahce E., Fannie J., John L. and Edith E., of whom AHce E., Fannie J. and John L. are deceased. Mr. Francis is a member of the Baptist Church, and Mrs. Francis of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics Mr. Francis formerly supported the principles of the Wig Party, and was an ardent supporter of Henry Clay. Since 1856, he has supported the principles of the Repubhcan party. He owns a farm of 160 acres, about no of w^hich is in a hiirh state of cultivation.

Moses Rumsey Gilemore, M. D., one of the senior ph3'sician of Shelby County, was born in Geauga County, Ohio, January 12, 1832. He was the fifth of six children, three sons and three daughters, born to William and Jane (Rumsey) Gillmore, who were natives of Massachusetts and New York, respectively. The former who was the son of William and Jerusha (Stewart) Gillmore, was born of Scotch descent, August 7, 1791, and died September 22, 1868. The latter who recentl}- died in Belle vue, Ohio, at the advanced age of eighty-six, was the daughter of Moses and Lydia (Miller) Rumsey, born May 11, 1801, and came of English parentage. Her great grandfather was Simeon Rumsey, a captain in the British Armv, a native of the Isle of Guernsey. He came to America in 1695, and was engaged in the Indian and French Wars in Virginia and became a large owner of real estate in Orange Countv and Loni*' Island, New York. The two brothers of our sketch were Hiram and Austin, both of whom died in childhood. His three sisters w-ere: Lydia Ann, married to Rev. Joseph F. Wade, she died in 1S86, and he i88s; Elizabeth, now the wife of James S. Coak, of Spencer, Clay Count}-, Iowa, and Huldah S., who is the wife of Isaac Mundy, of Bellevue, Ohio. Dr. Gillmore is a first cousin of L. M. and Moses Rumsev, brothers, who carry on a large wholesale business and operate extensive iron works in St. Louis, Mo., and are noted capitalists and millionaires. Also to John A. Rumsey, a noted iron works manufacturer of Seneca Falls,

N. Y., and millionaire. He is also first cousin to Gen. Gillmore, of the late civil war. When he was three years of age his parents removed to Sandusky CouQty, Ohio, where he was reared upon a farm. His father was a minister in the Christian Church; but in his latter years resided on a small farm. Of this his son Moses assumed almost entire manafrement when only twelve years of age, owmg to the unpaired condition of the father's health. The son continued upon the farm until he reached the age of seventeen, when he threw himself upon his own resources and went out into the world to do for himself. He first found employment with a carpenter, with whom he spent a few months learning the trade. He possessed such natural mechanical skill and genius, that before he v/as nineteen years of ap-e he had a good knowledge of carpentr}^ and was taking contracts for himself. At twenty 3?ears of age he entered Antioch College, at Yellow Springs, Ohio, the president of which was the distinguished author and lecturer, Hon. Horace Mann. He attended college and taught school alternately for four years. In the meantime he had determined to tit himself for the medical profession, and to that end during his college life he selected studies bearing upon the practice of medicine. Aside from his regular studies he also devoted considerable time during his leisure hours to the reading of medical works under the direction of Dr. A. W. Hartmen. On leavino; college he went home and continued his studies privately during one summer. In the fall of 1857, he entered the medical department of the University of Michig-an, and took one course of lectures, and in the following spring he entered upon the practice of medicine in Fulton County, Ohio. In the fall of 1859, he returned to Ann Arbor and took his second course of lectures, graduating with the class of i860. In January, 1861, he located at Hutsonville, 111., where he practiced his profession about one year. In 1862, he entered the service of the Union Army as Acting Assistant Surgeon, in which capacity he continued one year. Plis surgical services were chiefly rendered in the Hickory Street Hospital, St. Louis, in the Hospital at Jefferson Barracks, Mo., and Pine Bluff, Ark. In April, 1883, he located in Shelby County, a resident of which he has been ever since. His professional labors have chiefly been performed in the western part of the county, and they have at times made such demands upon him as to imperil the condition of his own health, in consequence of which it is now somewhat impaired. In the fall of 1863, in order to be well up with the more recent advancements in the medical science, he entered the Central College of Physicians and Surgeons, Indianapolis, where he took a full course of lectures and received his second medical diploma. Frequently the Doctor has yielded to the demands of his friends and delivered a number of lectures upon various ph^'siological subjects, all of which have been highlv appreciated by the public. March 9, 1887, he was appointed United States Examining Surgeon at Shelbyville, which position he now holds. Dr. Gillmore was married to Elizabeth x\llen, December 28, 1858. She was born in St. Lawrence County, N. Y., March 25, 1832, and was the daughter of Ira and Betsey (Wilder) Allen, both natives of Vermont. Her father was born Ma}" 20, 1790, and died May 17, 1866. He was a prominent minister of the Christian denomination, reared his family on a large farm, and was a highh' respected citizen. Mrs. Gillmore had five brothers and one sister, as follows: Harriet B., Ira W., Albert L., Henry S., Alden and Charles F., tv»'o of whom, Harriet B. and Henr}- S., are deceased. Her brother, Ira W., is president of Allen's Academy, in the City of Chicago; Albert L., a prominent physician in Hannibal, Mo.; Alden, a talented minister in New York State, and Charles F., a successful farmer on the old homestead, near Potsdam, N. Y. The Allen famih' were relatives of the renowned Ethan Allert of the Revolutionary War. Dr. and Mrs. Gillmore are the parents of three children : Allen Rumsey, born November 17, 1863, now in the employ, as salesman, of L. M. Rumsey 's Mfg. Co., of St. Louis; WllHam Moses, born August 23, 1868, now a student at Purdue University, and Elizabeth Jane, born August 22, 1873. Our subject and his wife are in their religion, Presbyterians. The former is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and was Master, for a number of years, of his lodge at Fairland, Ind., and of Shelb}' Chapter he is also a member. The wife of Dr. Gillmore w^as assistant teacher of music in Antioch College w'hen she became acquainted wdth the subject of this sketch. Dr. Gillmore is a scholar!}^ physician, a very successful practitioner, and he and wife are highly esteemed citizens of this county.

John A. Hack, a prominent farmer of Sugar Creek Township, was born in Butler County, Ohio, Ma}' 16, 1841. He was the eldest of four children - all sons - born to George F. and Margaret (Dingf elder) Hack, both of w'hom were natives of Germany. About the year 1839, the parents came to Baltimore. On reaching this country the}' made their way to Hamilton, Butler Co., Ohio, where shortly afterward they were united in marriage. The three brothers of our subject were: Frederick, George and Conrad, the last of whom died in childhood. When John was ten years of age his parents removed from Butler County, Ohio, to Hancock County, this State, where his youth was spent upon a farm. He continued with his parents until the time of his marriage, which occurred January 12, 1865, when Jane Smith became his wife. She was born in Moral Township, this county, June 16, 1844. She was the daughter of Tinsley and Sarah (Murnan) Smith, the former of whom was born in North Carohna, of English descent, and the larter was born in this county, of German and Irish descent. Her paternal grandparents were James and Nancy Ann (Vernon) Smith, natives of North Carolina. Her maternal grandparents were Michael and Jane Murnan. Immediately after their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Hack located upon a farm in Sugar Creek Township, Hancock Count}-, and there continued to reside until 1872, when they removed to this county, and located in Moral Townsiiip. In 1880, they removed to Sugar Creek Township and located where they now reside. The life occupation of Mr. Hack has been that of a farmer, and as such he has been very successful. He and wife are the parents of three children : Frederick T., born July 24, 1866; Charles A., born April 25, 1869, and Orin S., born April i, 1876, all living. ' Mr. Hack is a member of the Lutheran Churchy and Mrs. Hack possesses a membership in the Presbyterian Church. In politics the former is a Democrat. H^e owns a fine farm where he lives, of 160 acres, about 140 of which are in a high state of cultivation. Besides this, Mrs. Hack owns a good farm of 180 acres in Moral Township.

Philip Hoop, one of the most successful agriculturalists of Shelby County, was born in Highland County, Ohio, March 19, 18 16. He was the tenth of twelve children, eight sons and four daughters, born to Peter and Motilena Hoop, both natives of Virginia, of German descent. He was but five years old when his father died, and but fifteen years old when his mother died. After his father died he remained with his widowed mother upon the farm until her death, and for about two years thereafter he remained in Highland County^ working upon a farm. He attended school a part of the time. In the seventeenth year of'his age he started out into the world for himself. He walked to Cincinnati where he purchased an ox, and with this he again started out on foot, and some time during the month of March, 1832, he arrived in Shelby Count}'. After spending a short time with his brother, who had previously come to this county, on the 6th day of August, 1840, he was married to Mary J. Francis, who was born in Bath County, Kentucky, January 19,. 1822, She was the daughter of WiUiam and Sarah (Hardesty) Francis. Immediately after their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Hoop located upon a farm of eighty acres, which the former had purchased in Sugar Creek Township. Some eight or ten years later they removed to the farm Mr. Hoop at present occupies, where they continued to live happily together until their union was broken by the death of the wife, May 27, 1876. On the iSth day of May^

1879, ^^^ ^^'^^ married to Susan Baker, who was born in Madison County, Kv., October i, 1856. She was the daughter of Reason and Elizabeth Baker, both natives of Madison County, K}'. Mr. and Mrs. Hoop are the parents of two children: Philip E., born February 18, 1884, and Peter, born April 6, 1886, both living. Mr. Hoop is a member of the F. & A. M. Lodge, and a staunch Democrat in politics. He began life a poor boy, but through industr}^, perseverance and economy he is now one of the wealthiest men in Shelb}' County. He owns a farm of 600 acres, most of which is in a high state of cultivation. His farm is fitted up wdth good fences and buildings, and a handsome brick residence erected at a cost of $7,000.

Henry Huntington, a pioneer of Shelby Countv, and one among the oldest residents of Sugar Creek Township, was born in Connecticut, August 26, 1816. He was the third of six children, four sons and two daughters, born to Septimius G. and Mar}- T. (Morse) Huntington, natives of Connecticut and Alassachnsetts, respectiveh', the former of whom was a descendant of Simon Huntington, who left the shores of England with his wife and children in 1633, and started for America. The father died upon the voyage and was buried in the ocean. The mother broucfht her children to America, and the latter became the progenitors of a large family, several members of which have attained considerable prominence in this country. A few of the more noted ones may here be mentioned: Hon. Samuel Huntington, Ex-Governor of Connecticut and President of the Continental Congress; Samuel Huntington, a nephew of the former, who became Governor of Ohio; Elisha M. Huntington, Ex-United States District Judge for Indiana; Gen. Jedediah Huntington, Judge Benjamin Huntington and a number of others. The paternal grandparents of Mr. Huntington were Rev. Joseph and Elizabeth (Hall) Huntington, both of whom were natives of Connecticut. His maternal grandparents were Ezekiel and Mar}- (T3'ler) Morse, the former of whom was related to the antecedents of Prof. S. F. B. Morse, and the latter was a relative of Col. Tyler, of Revolutionary fame. When our subject was yet a child, his parents emigrated to Lebanon, Ohio. About one year later they came to this State and located at Connersville, but in the year 182 1, they removed to this county, and settled in the wilds of Sugar Creek Township. That was one among the earliest settlements in the township. He continued at home until the time of his marriage, which occurred April 6, 1850, when Sarah A. Edwards became his wife. She was born in Miami County, Ohio, December 22, 1825, and was the daughter of William and Sophia (Carsonj Edwards. Two years after their mar- riag-e, Mr. and Mrs. Huntington located upon the farm they now occupy, and on which the}' have ever since continued to reside. They are the parents of eleven children: Kate, born Jul}- 3, 1851, died September 30, 1853; Eliza, born January 20, 1853; Thomas H., born September 2, 1S54; Abbie, born May 14, 1856; Ella, born March 7, 1858, died September 10, 1858; Maggie, born March 8, 1859; Jo^"*" ?., born March 10, 1861; George B., born November 8, 1863; Wilham ^., born November 16, 1865; Samuel, born Januar}-" 13, 1867, died September 29, 1867, and Frank C, born August 20, 1869. Mr. and Mrs. Huntington are members of the Protestant Methodist Church. In politics the former is a Democrat. He has held the office of Trustee in Sugar Creek Township thirteen years. He owns a good farm where he lives, of 160 acres, about lOO of which are in a high state of cultivation. His farm is fitted up with good buildings and fences, and is a very desirable location. Besides this, he owns two other farms in Su^^ar Creek Township, one of eighty acres and one of thirty-two acres. He is an honest, upright man, and he and wife are among the worthy and esteemed citizens of Shelby County.

Thomas H. Huntington, a prominent citizen of Sugar Creek Township and the present Trustee of the township, was born where he now lives with his parents, September 2, 1854. ^'^ ^"^'^^ ^^^^ third child and oldest son born to Henry and Sarah A. (Edwards) Huntington, a history of whom appears above in this work. He was reared upon his father's farm, and he still continues with his father and mother, his attention being given to agricultural pursuits. In the spring of 1882, he was elected to the office of Road Superintendent, and served in that capacity until the office was abolished. In the spring of 1884, he was elected Trustee of his township and was re-elected in the spring of 1886. He is an agreeable, genial man, a reliable and trustworthy official, and he possesses the confidence and esteem of all who know him.

Jonathan H. Keith, an honored pioneer of Sugar Creek Township, was born in Lewis County, West Virginia, August 8, 1811. He was the youngest of thirteen children, six sons and seven daughters, born to James and Mary Ann (Allkire) Keith, the former a native of Winchester, Va., of English and Scotch descent, and the latter a native of Pennsylvania, of German descent. His boyhood and early youth were spent working upon his father's farm in his native county. In the spring of 1828, he accompanied his parents to Miami County, Ohio, but in the following fall the family came to Shelby County, and located in the woods of Marion Township. In the spring of 1829, they removed to a farm which the father had purchased in Brandywine Township, near the present site of Fairland. In 1832, they removed to Sugar Creek Township, and located upon a tract of land in Section 32,. upon which the subject of this sketch has ever since resided. The chief occupation of his life has been that of a farmer. His lirst marriage occurred April 10, 1836, when Keziah Hutchison became his wife. She was born in Warren Count}^ Ohio, March 27, 1818, and was the daughter of James and Sarah (Ulry) Hutchison. She died March 31, 1837. On the second da}- of April, 1848^ Mr. Keith was married to Elizabeth Crosby, who was born in Clermont Count}', Ohio, August 25, 1829, and was the daughter of Joseph and Mary (Cook) Crosby. The first marriage of Mr. Keith resulted in the birth of one child, Sarah C, born March 11, 1837, died September 12, 1837. He and his present wife are the parents of ten children, as follows: Marshall, born January 29, 1849, died in infancy; Mar}' K., born April 26, 1850; Frances L., born January 23, 1S52, died August 19, 1884; Maude, born April 23, 1854; Joseph JVI., born October 27, 1856; James W. S., born December 22, 1858; Wilham A., born November 25, 1861; Susan M., born March 6, 1864, died June 6, 1884; Edward E., born February 27, 1867; Oscar H., born April 30, 1869. Mr. and Mrs. Keith are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The former became a member of the F. & A. M. about thirty-one years ago. In politics he is an ardent Republican. He has served his township as Justice of the Peace five years. He served as Second Lieutenant in Co. H, Third Indiana Regiment, of the Mexican War, from June 1846, tojuh^ 1847. He owns a good farm of 160 acres.

TiLGHMAN H. Lee, Ex-Sheriff of Shebly Count}-, and at present a prominent farmer of Sugar Creek Township, was born in Addison Township, this county. May 31, 1839. He was the third of five children, three sons and two daughters, born to Louis M. and Spicy (Campbell) Lee. He spent his boyhood and youth working upon a farm in this county. As early as tw^elve years of age he began working upon a farm by the month, and tlius continued among strangers for a period of fourteen years. February 23, 1865, he was married to Annie Hoop, a native of Moral Township, this county, born July 30, 1848. She was the daughter of Furguson and NelHe (Doble) Hoop, the former a native of Ohio, of German descent, and the latter a native of Kentucky. Immediately after their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Lee located upon a farm in Sugar Creek Township. Mr. Lee continued the vocation of a farmer in that township, until the fall of 1872, at which time he was elected upon the Democratic ticket to the office of Sheriff of Shelby County. He was re-elected in the fall of 1874, ^"<^ ^^ the expiration of his second term, he returned to Sugar Creek Town- ship, and resumed the business of a farmer. His attention in this connection, however, has chiefly been confined to the management and overseeing of his farm, owing to the fact that for a period of about seventeen years he has served the pubhc in the capacity of an auctioneer. He is pecuHarly adapted for this vocation, and he is universally recognized as one of the most successful auctioneers. Mr. and Mrs Lee are the parents of four children as follows: Gillmore and Elmore (twins), born November 14, 1866, the former died December 23, 1866; Cora A., born September 17, 1869, and Fannie, born February 25, 1878. Mr. and Mrs. Lee are members of the Presbyterian Church. The former is a member of the F. & A. M. Lodge, and a staunch Democrat in politics. He owns a handsome farm where he hves, of 174 acres, about 135 of which are in a high state of cultivation.