Vanderburgh County, Indiana - Biographical sketches, 1897 (part 4 of 5)

John Lee Davis was born at Carlisle, Sullivan county, Indiana, on the 3d of September, 1825, and died in Washington only a few years ago. He was in the naval service from boyhood, as his father who was in congress at the time secured his entrance into the Annapolis Naval School. He. entered the U. S. service as a midshipman in 1841. In many naval engagements during the war for the Union he took a gallant part. He was promoted Commodore on the 4th of February, 1882, and on the 30th of October, 1885, received his commission as rear admiral. In 188G he was placed (ju the retired list.

Captain Lee Howell

One of the most active and necessary business men of the city, at this time, is Captain Lee Howell. His energy, assiduity and business talent are crowning his life with success. His unflagging enterprise his admirable push, and his skillful application to his work prove his superior worth and mark him a prominent figure in the present history of the business industries of the city. Such a man's life is eminently worthy of note, not simply f<)r what it accomplished, i)ut for the ex- ample it exhibits to younger men, sliowing how success attends and crowns constant, well-directed, zealous etiorts. From a farm lad with meagre school facilities, he has forged his way upward and forward, until to-day he is the general freight agent of the Evansville and St. Louis and Evansville, Henderson and Nashville divisions of the L. & N. railroad system.

He is a native of Lauderdale county, having been born near Florence, Alabama, where his parents trora the Carolinas had settled in an early day. His existence began in the forties. When fifteen years old he quitted the old farm and began business in a large country store as clerk by day and bookkeeper by night, which occupation he followed till the breaking out of the civil conflict. In 1862 he entered the cavalry service of the Confederate army and served till the end of the war, enduring many hardships, engaging in many contests, and passing through many narrow escapes. After the close of the fratricidal struggle he steamboated on the Ohio and Tennessee rivers, first as chief clerk and later as master of the various steamboats running between Upper Tennessee river points and Evansville. It was here that his business talent was manifested. On April 1, 1872, he became contracting agent for the Louisville & Nashville Railroad Company, a position he held for eight years. His promotion and appointment to the position of general agent of the company dates from 1880, after which promotions followed in rapid succession. On June 1, 1882, he was appointed division freight agent of the Evansville, Henderson and Nashville division, and on November 1, general freight agent of the P]vansville and St. Louis, and Evansville, Henderson and Nashville divisions, with headquarters in Evansville.

He is deeply interested in the progress of the city, the development of its natural resources, and the advancement ot its general prosperity. He was one of the originators of the Evansville, Newburgh and Suburban railway, and is always found a leading figure in public enterprises of value to Evansville. Captain Howell was the originator and prime factor of the Evansville Cross Tie Company, organized in 1888, for the purpose of manufacturing cross ties and further developing the lumber business on Green river. This company afterwards merged into the T. J. Moss Tie Company, which is now manufacturing 600,000 ties per annum in Green river territory. We are also indebted to him for the Evansville, Ohio and Green River Transportation Company, organized in 1889, the two concerns together expending annually along Green river .and at Evansville for timber, labor, transportation, supplies, etc., over $200,000, which is being increased yearly, and which is a direct benefit to the commercial interests of Evansville. The latter is his favorite enterprise. It has grown from one towboat and a small fleet of barges when the company was first organized to its present flourishing condition, including the towboats Longfellow and Little Tom Moss and a large fleet of barges engaged exclusively in towing cross ties and lumber from landings on Green, Barren, Ohio, Cumberland and Tennessee rivers to Evansville. This company also owns and operates the steam packets Evansville and Gayoso, which also makes two trips each per week, between Evansville and Bowling Green, Ky. In the operation of this vast business enterprise every energy is directed toward developing and increasing the business of Green river territory, making it tributary to Evansville. It is Captain Howell's earnest desire to aid in the development of the resources of Green river territory to such an extent as to justify a daily line of steamers between Evansville and Bowling Green.

Miss Emma Ottaway, of Tuscumbia, Alabama, became his wife in 1867, and to them were born four children, two of whom are dead. Lee, Jr., is now about twenty-three years old and is settling into a career that will eventually mark his life with honor. Emma, aged about sixteen, is the joy and solace of her parents.

Ryron Parsons

The subject of this sketch was born in Rodman, Jefferson county, N. Y,, December 15, 1835, and is of Scotch-English descent. Just when the traditional three Parsons brothers came to New England is not known, but a deed now in his possession, bearing date of October 30 1718, clearly proves that his ancestors were early settlers there. This deed is signed by Samuel Parsons, and conveys land located upon the east bank of the Connecticut river, in Hampshire county, to his son, Samuel Parsons, Jr. This ancient document has been handed down to him through the oldest sons of succeeding generations. (This unique document is appended at the end of this sketch). His father, Elam Parsons, was born in Connecticut in 1809, and moved with his father, Samuel Parsons, to Jefferson county, N. Y., about the end of the first quarter of this century. His mother was the daughter of Captain Samuel McNitt, who served this country in the war of 1812, and distinguished himself in the battle of Sackett's Harbor in May, 1813.

county, (N. Y.) where he grew to manhood. His early life was spent on a farm, and his education was obtained in the country schools and Belleville Union academy. In the spring of 1856, and prior to his twenty-first birthday, he caught the Kansas fever, and left the jjarental roof to seek his fortune in the far west. At this time the Kansas- Nebraska act, which became a law in 1854, began to bear fruit, and Kansas became the battle ground for the settlement of the great slave question. Settlers in great numbers were pouring into the territory troni both north and south ; those from the north for the purpose of organizing a free state, and those from the south for the purpose of organizing a slave state.

About this time Rev. Henry Ward Beecher, from his pulpit in Brooklyn, N. Y., declared that settlers to Kansas should go armed wtth a Bible and a Colt's revolver. Mr. Parsons took his advice. He journeyed by rail to St. Louis, and from thence to Kansas City by river, on a steamboat loaded to her guards with emigrants and sup. plies destined for the " New Eldorado." The staterooms did not hold half of the passengers, and Mr. Parsons was obliged to sleep on a cot in the cabin with many others, who were no more fortunate than himself On landing at Kansas City he put up at the Free State hotel. He soon learned that the feeling between the pro-slavery and antislavery factions was already at fever heat. Late in the day he was advised that he had better seek lodging elsewhere, as the pro-slavery mob from the other side of the river, that two days before had gone to Lawrence to pillage and burn that town, were expected back that night, and the hotel would probably be destroyed, as it was owned by a free state man. The mob returned as expected, armed with all sorts of firearms and bearing banners with various pro-slavery mottoes, but they did not molest anything. They went on board a fernyboat, and with three cheers for Lawrence, pulled out into the stream and left for their homes in Missouri, on the other side of the river. On the following day, he joined a party of ten in the purchase of two ox teams and a "prairie schooner" with which to transport baggage and supplies. With these they set out for the uninhabited prairies of southeast Kansas, which were fast being settled. At Osawotamie a halt was made and a quarter section of land pre-empted. He at once went to work, cutting down trees with which to build a house, in order to hold his claim, but had scarcely more than got the logs up, before rumors were current that a Missouri mob might be expected at any time. A vigilance committee was organized and Mr. Parsons was called upou to do his first duty in defense of right and free institutions, under the direc- tioa of Captain John Brown, later of Harjjer's Ferry notoriety. The mob came as expected, and Captain Brown, with his unorganized force, did what lie could in defense of the town and postoffice, just established, but was overwhelmed by superior numbers, and the town was taken and pillaged and the postoffice robbed. Captain Brown lost one son, killed in the fight, and several otliers ot his unorganized force were wounded. From that time on he was known as Ossawatomie Brown. At this time Mr. Parsons was sick at the home of a Quaker, two miles away, but distinctly remembers hearing the fusilade, which lasted for about half an hour. Opened letters for him were found in the streets of the town after the mob had finished their pillaging and left.

Owing to continued illness he returned to his father's home in Jefferson county, N. Y., in the winter of 1856-57. In the spring of 1857 he accepted a position as clerk in a general merchandise store in Ellisburg, at a salary of $75 a year, and was so employed until the early fall of 1859, when he accepted a position as traveling salesman for a wholesale boot and shoe house in New York City. The firm failed in the early part of 1860, and he accepted a similar position with Lewis Brothers, of Utica, where he remained until October, 1861, when he returned to his native town, in Jefferson county, to assist in raising a company of volunteers for the 94th regiment, then being organized at Sackett's Harbor, N. Y. He enlisted as a private October 16, and on the organization of company C, was elected second lieutenant, and mustered into the United States service February 14, 1862. March 15 the regiment was ordered to Washington, and was immediately assigned to duty as provost guard at Alexandria, Va. It did duty there during the embarkation of McClellan's army for Fortress Monroe, but soon after joined McDowell's army on the Rappahannock, opposite Fredericksburg. It was with McDowell's corps in its fruitless march to the Shenandoah valley, after Stonewall Jackson, from May 25 to June 18. The regiment was first under fire at Cedar Mountain, August 9, and almost daily thereafter until the great battle of Bull Run, in which it participated August 30. First Lieutenant B. D. Searles, then commanding the company, was wounded in that engagement, and the command devolved upon Lieutenant Parsons. He remained in command until Lieutenant Searles' return, about October 1.

He participated with his command in the battles of Chantilly on September 1, South Mountain September 14 and Antietam September 17. He was promoted to first lieutenant September 17, and was with his command during the march of the army down through northern

Virginia and participated in the battle of Fredricksburg, December 13. He was promoted to captain January 6, 1863; participated in Burnside's "mud march" January 20 to 24, and in Hooker's chancellors campaign April 27 to May 6; also in the Pennsylvania campaign, and was wounded in the first day's battle at Gettysburg, July 1. He was granted leave of absence for thirty days, and at its expiration was detailed on special duty at Elmira, New York, and subsequently at Rikers Island, New York harbor, until November 25, when he was detailed on general court martial, which convened at Fort Hamilton and adjourned to New York City. He served on that court until January 16, 1864. January 22d he was detailed as second in command of a cargo of conscripts to Fortress Monroe and Alexandria, Va., and subsequently went with another cargo in the same capacity. He rejoined his command then doing duty at Camp Parole, near Annapolis, Maryland, February 12, and on the 19th of May left with his command to join the army of the Potomac, then fighting the battles of the Wilderness under Grant. His command i-eached the front then operating on the line of the Tolopotomy May 30, and was assigned to the first brigade, second division fifth army corps. Thus organized his command participated in the general movement towards Petersburg, and was hotly engaged in the swamps of the Chickahominy on the 13th holding the enemy in check while the main array was crossing the James river. He reached the front before Petersburg on the 17th and participated in the advance and final unsuccessful assault upon the enemy's works on the 18th. He was continually with his command during the investment of that city; participated in the movement for the possession of the Petersburg and Weldon railroad that began August 18, and was taken prisoner in the battle that gave us permanent possession on the afternoon of the 19th. He was a prisioner of war at Belle Isle, Libby, Salisbury, North Carolina, and Danville, Virginia, and was parolied from Libby prison February 22, 1865. He was discharged on application, by reason of expiration of term of service, March 10; but being appointed major rejoined his command April 13, and served in the field until mustered out with his regiment July 18.

While in Libby prison he formed the acquaintance of Captain Jesse Armstrong, of this city, who became one of his messmates in that noted hostelry. Captain Armstrong was enthusiastic in his praise of Evansville, and the acquaintance thus begun resulted at the close of the war in a correspondence with Coolidge Bros., who were formerly of Watertown, Jefferson county. New York, but at this time the lead- ing dry goods men of this city. Thus it was that Major Parsons, together with Captain C. E. Scoville and Colonel S. A. Moffett were persuaded to come to Evansville. These three young men had been comrades in arms and officers in the same regiment for nearly four years. This close relationship resulted in a mutual understanding that when the war was over they would enter into business together. So after being mustered out of service, they came to Evansville, arriving here in the latter part of August, 1865. October 12 they bought out William Riley, then doing a retail grocery and feed business at 124 Main street, and commenced business under the firm name of Parsons, Scoville & Moffett.

Since then Major Parsons' life has been an open book to the people of Evansville, except for the most part of the time from the summer of 1885 to the spring of 1893, while engaged in developing a salt industry in Texas. Major Parsons was the pioneer in the salt business in that state, and in company with Mr. Frederick R. Blount, succeeded in building up a large and lucrative salt industry, which was incorporated under the name of the Lone Star Salt Company in 1889, and which is now one of the large industrial enterprises of that great state.

The firm of Parsons, Scoville & Moffett took front rank in the retail grocery business of the city from the beginning. In the spring of 1871, Parsons & Scoville bought Colonel Moffett's interest in the business, and he moved to Chicago. The new firm of Parsons & Scoville gradually merged the wholesale business into their extensive retail trade until their warehouse. No. 127 Main street was inadequate to their growing business. They, therefore, July 17, 1881, sold a onehalf interest in their retail business to Mr. Ezra Lyon and established the wholesale grocery house, corner of Second and Sycamore streets. July 1, 1882, they sold their other one-half interest in the Main street business to Davis Bros., and since then have conducted an extensive' wholesale grocery business. In July, 1894, they incorporated under the name of Parsons & Scoville Company. It will be seen therefore that Parsons & Scoville have been associated in business here almost thirty-two years. Indeed, in this line of business no other firm in the city has been so long continuously in active operation as has this reliable old house. Major Parsons is a man of progressive ideas, a clear thinker, a thorough business man, well read, active in all worthy enterprises for the good of the city and the well being of his fellow citizens. He is a man of high moral principles and for many years has been a member of Walnut Street Pi-esbyterian church. He is a comrade of Farragut Post, No. 27, Grand Army of tlie Republic; also

Ancient Deed

" Know all men by these presents; that I, Samuel Parsons, Senior, of Endfield, in the county of Hempshier, in New England, planter, for and in consideration of the great love and respect I bear unto my son, Samuel Parsons, have freely given unto my said son, Samuel Parsons, his heirs and assigns forever a certain percell or tract of home lott land situate, lying and being in the township of Endfield aforesaid, containing by estimation twelve acres, be it more or less, and is in length one hundred and sixty rods and in breadth twelve, and is bounded on the east by the street and on the west by the Great river and on the south by the land of James Pease, and on the north by William Randell, or by whatsoever bounds bounded or reputed to be bounded or name called, together with all woods, underwoods, river, water, water courses, profits, privileges, rights, commodities, heriditaments and appurtenances whatsoever to the above said percell or tract of land belonging or in any kind appertaining or therewith now used, occupied, enjoyed, accepted or taken as part or member of the said tract of home lott, and to have and to hold the above said percell or tract of home lott land butted, bounded and containing as aforesaid with all other the above granted premises unto the said Samuel Parsons, his heirs and assigns forever to his and their own sole proper use, benefit and behalf forever. And I, the said Samuel Parsons, Senior, for me, my heirs, executors and administrators do hereby covenant promise and grant to and with the said Samuel Parsons, his heirs and assigns in manner and form (that is to say) that at the time of the ensealing hereof and until the delivery of these presents, I was the true, sole and lawful owner of all the afore bargained premises and stood lawfully seiged hereof in my own proper right of a good, perfect and absolute estate of inheritance in fee simple, without any manner of condition, reversion or limitation whatsoever so as to alter, change, defect, or make void the same, having in myself full power, good right, and lawful authority to give, grant, sell, convey, assure the premises with their appurtances and every part and percell thereof unto the said Samuel Parsons, Junior, his heirs and assigns forever, in manner and form as aforesaid; and that the said Samuel Parsons, his heirs and assigns, shall and may by force and vertue of these presents, from henceforth and forever hereafter lawfully, peacefully and quietly have hold, use, occupy, possess and enjoy the above granted premises with their appurtances and every part and percell thereof/ree and dear and clearly acquitted and discharged of and from all and all manner of former and other gifts, grants, bargains, sales, leases, mortgages, joyutures, dowers, judgments, executions, entails forfeitures; and of and from all other titles, troubles, charges, and incumbrances whatsoever had made, committed, done, or suffered to be done by mc, the said Samuel Parsons, Senior, my heirs, executors, or administrators or assignes at any time or times before the ensealing hereof In witness whereof I, the said Samuel Parsons, Senior, have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty-second day of Augusts Anno Domini One Thousand Seven Hundred and Eighteen, and in the fifth year of the reign of our sovrain - Lord George, king over Great Britain.

Hampshier, October 30, 1718. Samuel Parsons apjieared in Endfield before me the subscriber, one of his majesty's justices of the peace for said county of Hampshier and acknowledges this instrument to be his act and deed.

The Igleheart Family

The history of a family is always an interesting personal matter, and of all the families in Evansville at this time none are more interesting or inspire higher aims and ambitions than the Igleheart family. This race of worthy citizens is of German extraction, the first emigrants landing in the vicinity of Baltimore, Maryland, in the first part of the eighteenth century.

Levi, the fifth son of John Igleheart, of Prince George's county, Maryland, was born August 13, 1786. He married Anne Taylor and settled in Ohio county, Kentucky, in 1816, where he resumed his occupation, that of a farmer. Here their eldest son, Asa, was born December 8, 1817. Seven years afterward, in 1823, the family moved to Warrick couuty, ludiaua, uear the stream that separated Vauderbuugh aud Warrick couuties. lu those days wheu the ax was the chief imjileuient in the forest, aud the family had to manufacture all its own conveniences, comforts aud uecessities, the schools were few aud the chances for learning were meager. But the boy Asa had a natural love for books and learning, and his father stimulated this proper desire by spending the evenings in wise inquiries and suggestive propositions. Then the young men who made their mark in life were obliged to labor hard at physical work all day long, and then literally burn the "midnight oil"^the lard-oil lamp or the candle - over some book or study. Study with those boys was a passionate delight. The M. E. circuit riders always found a welcome in the Iglehart home, and these men suggested and educated by their very lives. Aaron and Enoch Wood, and others who attained celebrity later, often found shelter beneath that hospitable roof By these fewhelps at learning (the family library then perhaps consisted of no more than a dozen books) young Asa had acquired sufficient knowledge to teach school. His love of books was so strong that when at work in the field, he sometimes carried a book with him.

He married Anne Cowle, of Blue Grass, Vanderburgh county, in 1842. She was a lady of intelligence and refinement, possessing both literary and social accomplishments. To them were born Ferdinand, Eugene and Mrs. Annie Taylor. That romantic passion for study induced Mr. Iglehart to take up the study of law while yet upon the farm, and he was admitted to the bar at the age of thirty-two. In 1849 he located in Evansville and entered the law firm of Ingle & Wheeler, as junior partner. This a-ssociation continued until Mr. Iglehart was appointed common pleas judge in 1854, a position he filled for four years. He was a man of great activity-. He aided in bringing into existence the first state bar association, of which he was the first president. He a.ssisted in establishing the bar association of the United States, and was an original member of it. For many years he contributed editorially to the " Central Law Journal." One of his literary labors was the revision of " McDonald's Treatise," and his crowning work was his "' Pleading and Practice " in Indiana. These and other literary works were done in the midst of active legal practice. He practiced in the supreme court of Indiana, in the fedei-al courts, and in the supreme court of the United States. He was one of the most profound judges of the country, a man of remarkable and masterful penetration; a mind always reaching decisions in equity and and justice; a talent not excelled by the supreme judges of the st

For a long time he was counselor of the E. & T. H. railroad, ami ably advocated many of the canal suits in behalf of the city of Evansville, and he mauaged them so skillfully as to win great commendation. In the higher courts his great force and skill was very apparent.

His labors were great, his pains in the preparation of a case infinite, and his strict systematic methods of work enabled him to accomplish what seemed to be beyond the scope of man to do. But he was not a man to neglect the smallest thing that would aid his cause. By his persuasion the Indiana supreme court overruled Judge Redfield, a leading American legal text writer. His personality was sublime, his faith in God as simple as that of a little child. His Christian character mirrored forth his soul in all its purity and nobleness. He was a man of firm physical proportions, and a giant in that well-balanced and massive intellect that marks the man of superiority and execution.

In educational matters he took a lively interest, and for several years he was trustee of the public schools of Evansvillc, and also a trustee of DePauw University.

His death occurred February 5, 1887, and it fell njion his iiuiltitiidc of friends and acquaintances in the nature of a blow - a public calamity. Two sons and a daughter, children of Asa Iglehart, are now living, Rev. Ferdinand, Eugene and Mrs. Annie Taylor. Ferdinand is a minister of renown in Brooklyn. N. Y., and Eugene is one of the leading attorneys in this city. He and his brother-in-law, Edwin Taylor, constitute the firm of Iglehart & Taylor, the successor of Asa Iglehart. Their legal practice is large, which shows the estimation in which they are held by the people, as well as compliments their talents and great legal learning.

Levi was born March 8, 1820, in Ohio county, Kentucky ; moved to Warrick county, Indiana, in 1823, where he grew uji, married and lived till 1853.

In 1844 he married Susanna Ingle, daughter of John Ingle, and in 1853 he moved to Evansvillc and established the Canal flour mills, on the site more recently occupied by Ellis & Knauss. At this time the Wabash and Erie canal was the great water way, which was expected to be the means of receiving grain and shipping flour. In 1856 he sold his interest here to Little Bros., and with his brothers, William and Asa, the latter a silent partner, established the Southern mills on its present site, which was also then located on the canal.

A personal sketch of Levi Iglehart, ijublished in the "Northwestern Miller", of January 22, 1892, the leading milling journal of the west, with a front page portrait, contains the following:

"The subject of this sketch is the senior member of the firm of Igleheart Bros., Evansville, Ind. He was born in Ohio county, Ky., in 1820. He moved with his parents to Indiana while a small boy, and grew up on a farm in Warrick county. In 1855, during the Crimean war he moved to Evansville, Ind., and built a small mill. At that time so little wheat was grown in Southern Indiana that it was difficult to get a sufficient supply to keep a 100-barrel mill running. In 1856 he sold out and went into partnership with his two brothers. Judge Asa as silent partner and W. T. Iglehart as active partner, under the present name and style of Igleheart Bros., and built what has been known ever since as the "Iglehcart's flouring mills." The firm was the first to use the purifier on winter wheat, also one of the first who adopted the use of rolls on such wheat.

"Prior to the war the universal custom was to consign flour to New Orleans for sal(^ and for a number of years after the war the custom of consignment of mill products to the eastern markets prevailed. About 1866-7 Iglehart Bros, determined to sell the product of their mill before it left their warehouse and ship goods on direct orders only. To accomjjlish this object at that time was no small undertaking, but by push and energy and fair and honorable dealing on the part ot the firm, and the uniform high grade of their flour, it was but a short time until their products were so well and favorably known in New England, the Atlantic cities and throughout the southern markets, that they could not meet the demand, though their terms were invariably sight draft with bill of lading attached. This state of things made it necessary for them to enlarge and increase the capacity of their mill.

"This firm were pioneers in milling in Southern Indiana, but have kept abreast of their competitors in all the modern improvements in milling and the best methods of purchase and sale of their goods, and there is to-day probably no milling firm in Indiana better or more favorably known to the flour trade, both east and south, than Igleheart Bros., their flours being prominent among winter wheat flours whereever known.

Some four years since, the silent partner, Judge Iglehart, died, and L. T. and A. W., sons of Levi Igleheart, were admitted to the firm, but the firm name was not changed. The old members of the firm, though in fairly good health, begin to feel the wear of nearly half a century of active business life, and are gradually shifting the work and cares of the concern upon the shoulders of the junior members, who have been brought up in the trade and are fully capable of maintaining and perpetuating the high standard of tlie house.

"Mr. Igleheart, our subject, has a host of friends in New" England and the Atlantic cities, where he is well known, and he is held in high estimation by the trade in all sections of the country."

In natural ability, foresight aud rugged traits of character, developed in a life of self-reliance and energy, covering almost the entire period of growth and development of this section, Levi Igleheart has been recognized as one of the leading men in the community and in the commercial world where he worked. .In his association with leading millers and manufacturers of the west and south, he has always been recognized as a leader.

No other institution in this city has done more to elevate and maintain the standard of commercial honesty than the firm of which he is the head. This is properly the result of the private life and character of its members, and here Levi stands, aud has always stood, as high as any man in the community.

His tastes and habits have never brought him into public view, beyond ordinary commercial transactions, aud the sphere of action of a private citizen of broad, philantrophic and Christian character. While modest and i-etiring in ordinary life, in all questions involving correct business methods, as well as questions of right and wrong, he is very aggressive and able to defend his views with clear and persuasive logic. He had three sons, Leslie T. and Addison W., who, on the death of his brother Asa, purchased the interest of the latter in the business; also John L., who is engaged in the same business. All his children are married and have families.

Wm. T., the youngest son of the family, was born in 1825 and died in 1895. The history of the milling firm, of which he was a member, is a history of his business life after he left the farm in 1856. In many traits of character he resembled his brothers Asa and Levi. Like them, he had a strong personality aud believed iu maintaining the highest standard of commercial aud private honesty. To his ability and energy much of the success of the firm has been due. He left surviving him a widow, Mrs. Florence B. Igleheart, and a son, Wm., who is married and lives at Salt Lake City; also a daughter, Eleanor.

The other members of this family, all dead, who left descendants, are: Harriet, who married John Erskine, and left a large family; Elizabeth, who married Mark Wheeler and left one son, Robert, and oue daughter, Ann, both married; Mary Ann, who married AVilliam Odell, aud left a large family; Kitty, who married John Johnston, and left .several children, aud Eleanor, who married Amos AV right, and- left a large family.

The family name is variously spelled Iglehart and Igleheart. The eastern branch and part of the western branch, including the family of Asa, adopting the former method, while most of the Kentucky branch and the families of Levi and William adopt the latter method of spelling.

James D. Parvin

James D. Parvin, now a resident of the city of Evansville, is a descendant of Mark D. Parvin, a sturdy pioneer, who was born at Reading, Pa., October 20, 1770, and early settled in Gibson county, Ind. There, in 1810, at the homestead of General Robert M. Evans, he was married to Miss Martha Evans, a sister of the distinguished general. His name was identified with the early days of Gibson county, where his death occurred December 29, 1830. The father of Capt. J. D. Parvin, James M. Parvin, was born at Winchester, Ky., March 22, 1818. When twelve years of age he settled in Gibson county, Ind., and there learned the trade of blacksmithing in the shop of William Howe. He came to Evansville in 1840, and was engaged as a mechanic for about fifteen years, at the end of which time he moved to Carlisle, Ind. During the period that he lived here he worked at his trade, that of blacksmithing, and joined his business interests with Varney Satterlee. Afterward it was Parvin & DeGarmo, blacksmithing and wagonmaking; and it was Messrs. Parvin and Satterlee who built the first buggy, both the wood and iron work, that was ever built in this county. The citizens were greatly pleased that they had at least one establishment that could turn out a handsome vehicle, and a kind with all compartments strictly homemade. That buggy was built for the well known citizen, Thomas Scantliu, now residing on Washington avenue, and who is spending his days not idly, but actively engaged in the foundry business, and has been for many years. As Mr. Scantlin was very liberal, his friends got the benefit of many rides in that memorable buggy.

A few days after the completion of this buggy, Mr. Scantlin, his father, brother and the author christened it by taking it on a fishing excursion at the mouth of Green river. We left the city on a beautiful morning early in the fishing season, and went by what we call the Bavou road. After we had provided for our sturdy old horse and placed the buggy under the shade of the big trees, we took a skiff and went across the river, spending a pleasant day in angling, and catching some of the finest fish that ever inhabited that river. But towai-d evening the clouds became heavy, and we experienced there a veritable storm of rain and hail, which prevented us from getting back that evening. We spent a very uncomfortable night. The storm continued to rage all night and next day, so we really could not get away from there until late in the evening of the second day. During that time this new, highly-polished buggy was exposed to the elements. It is true, we had an abundance of fish and our lunch, and that is about all we had until we got back home. There were many others who came up to join us in that fishing party the next day, and they had about the same experience as we did, known in those days as " fisherman's luck."

James D. Parvin, one of the sons of James M. Parvin, was born in this city, where he spent his boyhood, moving to Carlisle, Ind., with his parents about 1855, where he lived up to the time of the breaking out of the war of the rebellion. In May, 1864, he assisted in recruiting a company for the United States service, and was made second lieutenant of company G, 137th Indiana Volunteer Infantry (100 days men) May 25, 1864; discharged October 20, 1864; made captain of company G, 149th Indiana Volunteer Infantry (one year service) February 22, 1865 ; discharged September 27, 1865, by reason of the close of the war. He was elected auditor of Vanderburgh county November, 1886, and entered upon the duties of this office December 1, 1886, serving two terms, up to December 1, 1894, since which time he has been employed in various kinds of work, such as settling up estates, etc., and having received the appointment of postmaster of this city, which gives general satisfaction, he will enter upon the duties of this office in the near future.

William Storton

The author's acquaintance with \A^illiam Storton began almost on the first arrival of the family in Evansville, and what he writes here is the result of close knowledge and a degree of intimacy with him through long years. His father, William Storton, emigrated from England to America in 1854, and arrived in Evansville in the latter part of that year. As soon as he had collected a few dollars together, he entei'cd the business of draying.

The son, William, was born at Somcrsham, county of Huntington, England, October 16, 1840. His boyhood was spent on a farm in his native land. His school privileges for an education were such as were affi)rded by country schools. At the age of fourteen, when life was just opening up in new, young beauty, his family moved to the New World to try their fortunes in a laud of liberty, and a land possessing unlimited resources. It was a long journey, on the blue Atlantic, of sixty days in a sailing vessel. They landed at New Orleans, and in a short time resumed their journey up the Mississippi and Ohio rivers to Evansville - forty-two years ago. The subject of this sketch ever afterward made this city his home.

His first employment here was rendering assistance to his father in the draying business - before aud after school hours. As an industrious lad, whatever his hands found to do, he did it, turning an honest penny wherever possible. His first regular employment was with James Steele, who operated a planing mill at or near the corner of Upper Second and Chestnut streets. There he remained, handling stock and doing other work, till he engaged with the Journal company, January 1866, where his life was developed and where he remained up to the day of his death - over thirty years of continuous, faithful, profitable service. His labors were in connection with the business department of the paper. He began as a mailing clerk and collector, and his faithful and effective services in these departments led to his promotion to the more responsible position of solicitor for the job and bindery departments and general advertiser. Here he remained till the ledger of his life was balanced on earth. As a necessai-y part of his position much of his life was spent "on the road." Here he naturally formed many acquaintances in the neighboring states of Kentucky, Illinois and Tennessee, as well as in Indiana. His business principle was to make his services as profitable to his employer as possible, and to this object he devoted all his talent and energy. He was, as a natural result, a successful business man. His character was such and his business methods so clear and defined that all men with whom he dealt had implicit confidence in his judgment and integrity. Everybody pronounced him an " honest man, the noblest work of God " - the highest tribute that can be paid to any one. His policy was for peace, not opposition or controversy. Herein lay his happy faculty of making friends. Every criticism in the paper was a pain to him, and he never mentioned any one in type but in proper commendatory terms - always helping rather than imposing needless pain. He neglected no fact or needed detail in a bit of news, that in his large, liberal view, was necessary to give the facts a proper setting and a truthful bearing. His sense of right and justice was fine and highly developed. His truly Christian character shown clearly in his business life as well as in his church rcla- tions. He was fully conscious that with what measure he meted out to others, it would be meted out to him - as he judged he would be judged.

On December 12, I860, William Storton and Margaret Clark wei'e married by Dr. Sims, now a resident of Indianapolis. Three children blessed their homo - Allen, Frank and Carrie. Mr. Storton was a member of Trinity M. E. church, and actively engaged in all Christian work connected with the church. Long did he labor in the choir of that congregation, being a lover of music, both instrumental and vocal. His vocal abilities were of no mean order. For a long time he was chorister of Simpson M. E. Sunday school, as well as of Trinity. It was a real labor of love with him when engaged in Sunday school work with the children. He was an Odd Fellow, being a member of Morning Star lodge, of this city. His death occurred March 9, 1896.

He was scrupulouslj' faithful in all his undertakings - a perfect man, if such could be found on earth. His chief object in life was to do right, and he was an example for others to pattern after. His influence will live forever in the young, whom he taught with such proper spirit the beautiful, hopeful songs of his Sunday school. When you met him, his greeting was with a smile instead of a frown. It was his greatest delight to make his home a little heaven. He neglected no act to make others better and happier; he loved to do good because it was right. So it is easy to see why he lived in the hearts of all around - a fact that was made doubly manifest by the cortege that followed his remains to the grave. All admired him ; he shunned the very appearance of evil, and in his great Christian heart, there w.ns charity for all. His goodness did not end with his family, whicli was the first thing on earth to him, but he blessed others with his intuitive kindness. Unlike most traveling men, his inquiry was, when away from home, lor a church instead of a place of amusement. He had a hallowing, temporizing influence on all brother traveling men with whom he came in contact. Every moment of his life was rounded up and complete, and when the dread summons came, calling him home, he was ready; like Paul, he had run a good race and obtained the prize that lay at the end of tiu' course.

Simon Gumberts was the first one of the name to locate in Evansville. He was born in Ratsweiler, Germany, about the year 1814, and emigrated to America in 1839, coming directly to this city. He was a man of shrewd business ability, and was prominent in the movements for the upward progress of the city. His great business activity continued almost up to the time of his deatli, which occurred March 18, 1892.

He was married twice, both of his wives being sisters and descendants of the Rothchilds, another eminent Hebrew family. The children of his first wife M'ere Abraham, Saul, Charlotte (Mrs. Isaac Kahn), Henry S. and Mollie. The issue from his second wife were : Marx, Louis, Rosa, Carrie, Leopold, Nathan, Bertha and Tilden. All of Simon's descendants are living except Saul, Tilden and Charlotte (Mrs. Isaac Kahn).

Some of the family have gone out into other parts of the country to dwell and to do business. Those who are living here yet are Abraham, Nathan, Marx, Louis and Leopold. The two latter are prominently connected with Evansville's commercial interests, being engaged in the jewelry and opitical business. They inherited their father's keen business sagacity, and therefore have kept abreast of the times and prospered. They deserve the enjoyment of their prosperity.

Frank Manson Gilbert

He who name heads this brief personal history was born at Mobile, Alabama, July 1, 1848. On the death of his motlier in Evansville he was sent to Connecticut, where his father originally came from, and there he remained till lie was six years old. Then he was returned to Evansville and placed in the public schools, where he remained till he was sixteen years old. At this period of his life he was set to work in his fathers' wholesale grocery store under the porter, and the fiat of his philosophical fiitlicr was that he could "work up" or stay there under the porter till he was twenty-one. He soon "got the run" of the stock, became a salesman, and then went on the road as a commercial agent for his father's hou.se, traveling steadily for nine year.s - by buggy and horseback. There were then only two railroads in this section of the country - the E. <t T. H. and the Illinois Central into Cairo. He traveled in southern Illinois, and in winter-time made the whole trip on horseback, often returning to Evansville only half a day in a month. After his father retired from business, lie took charge of the books and settled up all his unfinished business affairs.

Now he began the life of a newspaper man, and first went on the Courier as river editor, then as city editor, and obtained all his knowledge of newspaper business from the late G. W. Shauklin. A desire to see more of the world led him west to Denver and Leadville. Here he saw quite a good deal of wild western life. Then he returned to Evansville, determined never to leave it again. In 1880 he and John J. Kleiner bought the Argus, and the next year Mr. Gilbert purchased Mr. Kleiner's interest in the plant. He ran this till he bought the Tribune in 1886, and since then he has never ceased to stand at the helm of this widely-read afternoon paper. By energy, industry, complaisance, and far-seeing policies he has made the Tribune one of the powers in progress of the city.

On October 20, 1881, he married Annie E. Hudspeth, daughter of the late J. M. Hudspeth. One child, Frank Manson Gilbert, Jr., graced this union.

Mr. Gilbert has always had an unwavering faith in the future of the city. He leaves no stone unturned that will in any way contribute to the general welfare of the crescent city. He has large real estate holdings, is a member of the orders of the K. of P., K. of H., Elks, and A. O. U. W., and has held high offices in all of them.

Mechanics' Foundry

Over thirty years ago the Mcchauit^s' foundry was established by the firm then composed of August Schultze, Ghas. H. Thuman, John Thuman, Alexander Jack, Michael Becker, Ferdinand Holtz and Fred. W. Hoppe. They organized the firm in July, 1865. The building, located at First street and Third avenue, in which they began business, is still the one they are occupying. Three of the original members of the firm are at present the owners of the plant, viz : August Schultze, Chas. H. Thuman and Alexander Jack - the others having died or withdrawn. Mr. Hoppe was only witli the firm about four years, when he withdrew. He died in California some years ago. Mr. Becker and Mr. John Thuman are also dead. Mr. Holtz retired from the firm about 1875, and is still living in this city.

Mr. H. August Schultze was born iu Prussia, April 19, 1831, and when eleven years old came to Evansville with his parents. At the age of sixteen he entered a foundry and labored for eighteen years. He was married to Martha Schulz, who died in 1873. To them were born five children. In 1879 he was married to Sarah Clark.

Mr. Charles H. Thuman was born in Baden, Germany, in 1831. With his parents he came to the United States in 1837 and to Evansville in 1851. Having learned the carpenter's trade under his father, he set in to pattern making in this city, and then became a member of the firm of the Mechanics' foundry. He was married to Barbara Fuchs in 1850, and eight children were born out of this union.

Mr. Alexander Jack was born in Scotland, at the city of Glasgow, iu 1833. At the inexperienced age of seventeen he came to the United States alone, and in Pennsylvania learned the trade of a machinist and engineer. He assisted in putting up a pig iron furnace on Green river, in Mulilenburg county, Kentucky, and arrived in Evansville about 1859. Hei-e he followed his trade and became a member of the present firm at its organization. He filled the office of water works trustee, being elected to that office at th(3 city election in 1888. He is connected with several industrial enterprises, belongs to the Knights of Honor, and is a member of the First Cumberland Presbyterian church of this city. He nuirried Elizabeth Sneddeu iu 1854. She died July 21, 1887.

The Mechanics' foundry, in the course of its existence, has done a vast amount of work, aggregating many millions of dollars. They have all along manufactured engine boilers, steamboat machinery, beam doctors or boiler feeders, circular saw mills and grist mills, all kinds of machinery and copper and sheet iron works. They are a trust-worthy, reliable firm, and rightly have the confidence of all the people with whom they ever did business.

William Olmsted was born in Ridgefield, Cdnneetieut, June 29, 1778, and married Miss Rachael Laird in Westmoreland, New York, December 27, 1801. He came to Evansville in 1817, and his family in 1818. His death occurred near Evansville May 1, 1865. His wife was born in New Marlborough, Massachusetts, May 1784, and died near Evansville March 18, 1845. Samuel Laird Olmsted, their son, was born at Manlius, New York, January 12, 1805, and died near

Evansville Ajjril 9, 1864. He married Edna Ami DeGariuo in 1847. They left three sons who are still living in this county: Samuel L., Matthew D., and Edward A. William Olmsted, son of William and Eachael, was born in Manlius, New York, June 18, 1807. His death occurred November 20, 1879. He was married April 1, 1832, to Hannah Fairchild. Their children still living are : Mrs. Geneva M. Fauquher, in this county; Mrs. Lucy C. Ayers, near Fort Branch, Ind., Mrs. Harriet H. Outlaw, in Alabama, Charles D. and William S., in this county, and Samuel L. in Gibson county, Ind. Alexander Hamilton Olmsted, also a son of William and Eachael, was born in Manlius, New York, April 13, 1809. He was employed by the government as Indian agent, and he married among them and died in Washington, District of Columbia. Abby Maria Olmsted, daughter of William and Rachael, was born in Westmoreland, New York, April 11, 1818, and died October 27, 1885. She was married September 23, 1841, to Martin Van Dusen. They left four children who are still living in this county, namely: Mrs. Rachael O. Royston, Alexander M., Louis L., and Mrs. A. M. Hayden. Martin Van Dusen died March 15, 1879. Charles Goodrich Olmsted, son of William and Rachael, was born near Evansville November 1, 1823. He was killed at the battle of Perry ville, Kentucky, October 8, 1862. He was captain of Company A., 42d Indiana regiment, at the time he was killed. He was married the first time to Antoinette Hedden Wood November 5, 1844, by whom he left one son, Charles G. Olmstead, yet living in this county. He was married a second time to Elizabeth E. Hopkins May 8, 1853, who is still living. Two of their children are living in this city, George W., and Ella Olmsted. Mrs. Olmsted taught school in 1863-4 at Olmsted school house, while the author of this book was trustee. She is now married to John M. Wright, of this city.

Frank Pritchett

As far back as it is possible now to trace the Pritchett family, we are led to the conclusion that they came originally from Wales to Virginia. One branch of this numerous race located in Evansville about the time, or perhaps a little before, the organization of Vanderburgh county into a civil district. There were two brothers, John H. and Noah. George was the sou of the latter, while Seth and Noah were the sons of John H. Noah died early, when only about twenty years old. Seth was born here in Evansville in 1819, and died here wheu about sixty-eight years old. He was a hirge man, weighing about two hundred pounds, aud was peaceable and industrious. As one of the earliest inhabitants in this county he was acquainted with the trials and privations of pioneers. He was a skilled blacksmith and did excellent work, and also engaged in the carriage business for a time. He married Miss Emma Grant, daughter of John Grant, the successful architect and builder. She was born in England in 1829. To them were born five children, of whom Frank was the oldest. Alexander and George S. arc the other sons living - two sons died young.

Frank Pritchett was born here April 14, 1853, and was reared in this city aud educated in the public schools. In early manhood he learned the trade of his father, at which he worked till 1875. For two years thereafter he engaged in teaming. In his youth he was of a busy turn, and his industry was an evidence of his native energy. He had winning ways, was a trustworthy friend, and possessed a splendid physique. He was always naturally an orderly citizen and seemed fitted to command order and the observance of the laws in others. In 1878 he became patrolman on the police force in this city, and thereafter his pi'omotion was rapid and deserving. The next year he was appointed deputy city marshal. In April, 1881. he was made dejiuty sheriff of Vanderburgh county under Thomas Kerth, sheriff. While serving in this capacity he was made chief of the city police force. In all these difficult positions he proved himself emiuently qualified and a most efficient officer. When the metropolitan police system became a law, he was naturally qualified as superintendent of the newly organized force, and so acceptable were his services that he held this position till 1886. Notwithstanding that he had twentyeight opposing candidates for doorkeeper of the state senate in 1887, he was chosen over all to that position. It was a time when it required a man of nerve and brawn to fill the place, for there was a contest between the president elect of the senate, a democrat, and the lieutenant-governor, a republican, as to which one should preside over the senate, and there were exciting scenes sometimes. He was elected sheriff of this county in 1888 by the democratic party, and his majority was a sort of personal victory, following as it did upon the struggle in the state senate. He was appointed chief of police in April, 1897, a position he is now filling.

Mr. Pritchett is an Odd Fellow, a member of the Knights of Honor, and belongs to the Knights of Pythias fraternity. Socially he is a man whose kindly acts makes him many friends. When it comes to the performance of what he considers his duty and the right, no obstacles can be put in his way to deter him.

John L. Bittrolff, Sr

He whose name is mentioned above was born in Durlach, Arch- Dukedom of Baden, Germany, the 2d day of January, 1791. He was a valiant soldier in the German army, under General Blucher, at the storming of Strausburgh, just before the battle of Waterloo, and was wounded in the engagement. His rank in the army was that of orderly sergeant. In 1832 he emigrated from Germany to America, landing at Baltimore, Md., with his family. For two years he lived at Youngstown, Pa., and then came to Evansville - 1834. He now rnoved to Princeton, lud., but returned to Evansville in 1837. In the hope of bettering himself and family, he moved to Herman, Mo., in 1839. Evansville was still the one spot that seemed best after all, and in the spring of 1841, he returned here and never again left. His death occurred in 1875, at the age of eighty-four years. He was a man of wonderful intelligence, and as a jeweler, was ambitious and enterprising. His sons were taught his trade. During the Mexican war the military fever ran high here, and Mr. Bittrolff soon found himself in command of a German company, sixty strong. All his commands were given in the German language, according to the tactics of the German army. His company had some old veterans in it, who had served under Wellington, and some from Napoleon's majestic army. It was one of the best drilled companies ever seen in Evansville. When troops were called for Captain Bittrolff wanted his company to enlist. It will be remembered that the war divided the people, many believing it was a war for the extension of slavery. One day, after a hard drill, when assembled at the green court house, they left it to a majority to decide whether they should go to the war as a body or remain at home. The vote stood one majority against going. Then Captain Bittrolff made an excited speech in his venacular tongue to the men, and he declared the majority were not true citizens, or they would respond to their country's call. The company never drilled again after that. Immediately atterward Captain Walker raised a company and they went to Mexico. Captain BittrolfFs two sons, George A. and J. Louis, were drummers in the company, one beating the bass drum and the other the tenor drum. Both of these sons are yet living in this city.

John Groscurth

The subject of this sketch was born in Hamburg, Germany, in the year 1844, and emigrated to this country in 1864. He served his apprenticeship for the term of five years in Hamburg as a shoemaker. He commenced operations in that line of business in this city in 1866 on Third street, where he has continued to carry on business up to the present time. Those of the citizens of Evansville who have become familiar with him through business or social intercourse, have but one opinion of John Groscurth, and that is that he is an honest, upright citizen, conscientious in all his dealings, and a credit to the community. The author of this work takes pleasure in being able to endorse the general opinion of those who have had dealings with Mr. Groscurth and who know him well, and Evansville can conscientiously embrace him in her list of reputable citizens.

Charles Keller

The subject of this sketch was one of our best known business men. He was strictly a self-made man, one who arose from the humblest stage of life, won for himself an honorable position, and carved out his own fortune. He was for many years so closely identified with the business interests of this city that a history of Evansville, which did not mention him, would be very incomplete. Charles Keller was born in Barkenfeld, Groszberzogthum Oldenberg, Germany, in the year 1824. When he was four years old his father died, after which his mother married a man named Siegel. In the fall of 1841 he accompanied his parents to this country. They came directly to this city, landing in Evansville on New Year's day. For some time he worked on a farm near Boonville, Warrick county, and from there he went into the employ of a Mr. Foster, at that time a prominent merchant of Newburgh. At the age of twenty he removed to this city and embarked in the gunsmith business in a small way in an unpretentious frame structure on Second street, near Sycamore, on the present site of the Acme hotel, and from there he removed his business to Main street, 30 .

where the Val. M. Schmitz & Go's, clothing house now stands. In 1852 he purchased ground and erected a store adjoining the alley between Main and Fourth streets, now No. 315. Here he successfully continued business until his demise. For some years he also conducted a stove and tin store on Second between Main and Sycamore streets. In 1845 he was married to Eva Schneider, with whom he lived happily until the spring of 1879, when .she died. In August, 1879, he married Rebecca Hoppen, who survived him, as did ai.so his two children, Oscar and Carl. Mr. Keller was a member of the German Methodist church, having become associated with the church in 1845. He served on the church board of directors and held different offices in the church for many years. He was well known by the older and younger citizens of Evansville. His death occurcd February 10, 1892.

Horace Conkey

The subject of this sketch was born in Syracuse, N. Y., on the 1st day of January, 1843. He cast his lot amongst us as a citizen of Evansville in the summer of 1880, being one of the contractors in the construction of the Peoria, Decatur & Evansville railway. Following the completion of this road, he engaged in the same line of business, and was prominently connected with the construction of the Louisville, Evansville & St. Louis railway, the Evansville & Indianapolis railway, (commonly called the "Straight line") and the Evansville & Richmond railroad. Succeeding those enterprises, he identified himself with the lumber interests of Evansville, being a prominent factor in the firms and coi'porations of the Crisle-Conkey land company and Conkey & Moore. In addition to his other commercial enterprises, he also took an active part in real estate interests, and by frugal and honest mauagement, acquired a comfortable competence, which he was about to enjoy when death removed him from our midst, on February 13, 1897.

Horace Conkey's character was as near that of one of "nature's noblemen" as the human nature of man permits one to become. The writer had been intimately associated with him in days of adversity as well as prosperity, and he can trutlifully assert tliat there was no swerving from his natural, noble self. His friendship was of that character ever sought after by the sterling representative citizen, and his acts were the correct index to his aim in life - an honest record. No epitaph could be more appropriately inscribed on his tombstone than the simple woi'ds, "He lived and strived for the welfare and hapijiness of others." He was generous \o a fault, kind and aiFable under all circumstances, choosing rather to bury the shortcomings of others, loving to apjirove rather than to criticise. Indeed, we could occupy pages' in extolling this man's good qualities. In his domestic relations, he filled to overflowing the requisites of son, husband and father, and his death, in manhood's prime, was a public calamity. Memory's tablet can never become dimmed in the recollection of such a man among those who knew him.

Theophilus Curnick

The author had the great pleasure of becoming acquainted with Theophilus Curnick immediately on his arrival in this city in the year 1855. I fully endorse all that has been said of him by the biographer who wrote what is appended hereto. His death was indeed a great loss to the church, for he was an exemplary man, an unflinching Christian ever, whose light was not under a bushel, but was always brightly burning. Whatever the loved dead had to say in public in the church, was always listened to with great interest and profound attention by all who had the good fortune to hear him. He seemed to have a holy influence upon those who heard him. He was in every way an aid and a cheer to the weak, weary and discouraged Christian. His words and influence entered the heart of the listener, who was lifted up and made better thereby. The following well written biography was prepared for the daily press at the time of his death. May 1, 1887, by his son, S. N. Curnick, president of the commercial college of this city:

" Theophilus Curnick was born in Bristol, England, October 26, 1814. His father was a professional accountant, and as Theophilus was his oldest son, it was according to usage that he should follow in the steps of his father, consequently at the age of twelve years he was placed in an office to learn his adopted profession. He became quite proficient, so that at the age when young men now begin to think of learning a profession or trade he was doing a man's work in an office and getting a man's pay. Before he was twenty years of age he was married and he soon had a large family around him. When about forty years old he concluded that he would try the new world. He accordingly came to America in the fall of 1855, coming at once to Evausville, where he located. He was soon followed by his family.

and ever since this city has been his home. How worthily he has filled the position of citizen'in every capacity let those who know him best testify. Mr. Curnick was a remarkable man in many respects. No one could look into his face and see the striking features there shown without feeling that they were gazing at no ordinary man. In his youth and prime he was a fine specimen of handsome, refined intellectual manhood. What he seemed to the looker-on to be, he was. He was a man of varied attainments, well read in all modern and ecclesiastical history, knew enough of Greek and Latin to give him familiarity with all quotations and ordinary sentences in those languages, and was well posted in all political and general news, being a great reader of the daily papers from his youth up. He was unusually well posted in everything relating to his profession, having had almost sixty years of uninterrupted experience. He was recognized as an authority in all matters pertaining to it. He was very methodical and uniform in his habits. His time for going to the office and leaving it for his meals were regular to the minute. So much so was this the case that when he was observed by housekeeperspassing their homes they would know the time without looking at the clock. He was careful and exact in his work and never allowed himself to be excited or put out in the doing of it. The writer remembers once asking him why he did not do a certain thing in another way than what he was accustomed to. He replied, "I cannot afford to make a mistake," and that was characteristic of all his work - carefulness and correctness. He was prompt in all engagements and daily duties and nothing was more calculated to upset him than to have a person behind in filling an engagement. He used to tell an experience when a young man of how this habit of his of being on time did him great good. He had a very imjjortant engagement with a gentleman who was desirous of engaging his services, and who was willing to pay him very liberally for them. The interview was to be at noon sharp. He rang the door bell just as the town clock was striking 12. The gentleman said, "Mr. Curnick, you are very punctual, sir." He rejilied, "That is my habit, sir." The interview ended in a very advantageous business engagement. He was very conservative in all business matters, leaning always to the side of caution. He detested anything and everything in the way of wild speculations, futures, margins, &c. His advice was sought and generally followed in all business matters with which he had to do. As one used to say, "He was a balance-wheel," and his suggestions were mostly followed. He was a good citizen, an example of a law abiding, patriotic, moral. Christian gentleman. He was in politics a republican, and always said that party was worthy of his support. At the polls he would generally cast his vote for his party unscratched and remained a faithful adherent all his life. But after all the distinguishing mark of this man's character was his faithful, consistent Christian life. He was a member of the Methodist church for over fifty years. Religion with him was a daily, vital experience. He lived his religion as every one that knew him will testify. Never did a vulgar or profane or impure word escape his lips. The Sabbath to him was a deiiglit. '"No busy cares disturbed his breast" on that day. No mail was ever opened, no office work of any kind ever performed on Sunday. He never thought of going to the office on Sunday, and it was his delight to make the Sabbath a day of blessed rest. His knowledge of the Bible was proverbial. In Sunday school his work was superior. From early childhood he attended the Sunday school and when still young he became a teacher. He was chosen as superintendent and after faithful service in this capacity he again became a teacher. He loved to teach God's word, and was a master hand at it. The ordinances of God's house were to him a delight. The preached word, prayers and songs of Zion found glad response in his spiritual nature. He loved the courts of the Lord's house, and often went when it seemed as if he could not possibly get there. The class meeting was to him a source of strength and comfort, and it was given to him to impart at such a meeting more than he received. His experience was always rich, deep, spiritual and never failed to impress the hearers. But the most remarkable attainment of Mr. Curnick was his wonderful power in public prayer. His power was a gift of great excellence. When in the full vigor of his mind and with unimpared vocal power, his prayers were an inspiration. No bishop, minister or layman excelled him. It was an endowment from above. He would use the choicest language, quote the most apt Scripture, take right hold on the throne of God, and with voice sweet, penetrating, mellowed to heavenly harmony, he would soar, and, lifting his audience with him, rise into fullest strains of exalted supplication, reaching with sublime faith the very Shekinah, catching the very spirit of deepest adoration and worship. Often it would seem as if " Heaven carae down the soul to greet, And glory crowned the mercy seat." "During special meetings his prayers and instruction to seekers were always owned and blessed of God. Quietly and peacefully this worthy man passed from our midst. Heaven opened her gates and let him in to behold the King in His beauty, and to mingle with the loved and honored who had preceded him there. His friends on earth can pay him no greather honor than to resolve to walk in his steps and meet him lip yonder. He used to quote from the poet (who in the ecstacy of fervent inspiration sang of the joy of Heaven and His glories) when he should "catch by turn the bursting joy, and all eternity employ in songs of endless praise." The reality is noM^ his. Mr. Curnick left a large family and circle of friends to mourn his departure. His seven sons and three daughters are all married and have families of their own: James L., Samuel N., Thomas, Sydney N., George L., Eliza S. Swift and Lucy Moll, reside in this city. Frederick is living in South Africa, Rev. E. T. is in Uxbridge, Mass., and Mary Ann Stevens is in Chicago."

Dr. George A. Cutler

Dr. George A. Cutler, son of Major Jervis and Elizabeth S. Cutler, was born in Nashville, Tenn., December 25, 1832. His parents moved to Evansville when he was very young, his mother having previously resided here. Mrs. Cutler's first husband. Captain Chandler, a wealthy sea captain, had emigrated from their home in New York City, and had built and equipped a large flatboat at Pittsburgh, (it being before the time of steamboats) and had floated down the Ohio, landing where Evansville now is. Captain Chandler purchased a large tract of land, and built one 'of the first houses here, but, in inspecting a well that had been dug for him, he contracted a severe cold, from the effects of which he died, leaving three children, John J., William H. and Mary R. Chandler, all of whom have been closely identified with the growth and jjrosperity of Evansville. Captain Chandler's daughter, who is the widow of Professor J. W. Knight, is the only one of his children now living. Dr. Cutler's father. Major Jervis Cutler, was an officer in the war of 1812, and his grandfather. Rev. Manasseh Cutler, was a staff-officer in the Revolutionary war. He was a member of the first Continental Congress, and president of the Ohio land company. In company with General Rufus Putnam, Governor Wiuthrop and others, they purchased one and a half million acres of land, and commenced the settlement of the territory that subsequently became the state of Ohio. His son, Jervis, a boy of seventeen years, went west with the first cold*'. The subject of this sketch has often heard his father say that he (his father) was the first white boy to cut down a tree to form a settlement in the state of Ohio. Rev. Manasseh Cutler was also the author of the Ordinance of 1787 (so often credited to Thomas

Jefferson), that great cliai'ter which consecrated the territory of Ohio, Indiana and the great northwest to freedom, and which set aside the sixteenth section in every township to maintain a system of public education.

While the ancestors of Dr. Cutler were entitled to great credit for their efforts in the cause of freedom, the son should also come in for a share. After graduating at the medical department of the university of New York City, Dr. Cutler returned to Evansville and began the practice of his profession with Professor McDowell. When the Kansas and Nebraska bill passed in congress, he was one of the earliest emigrants, and the outrages that be saw daily perpetrated upon the free state settlers by the pro-slaveiy men of Missouri, impelled him to espouse their cause of the anti-slavery element, and he soon became a prominent member of their party. He was nominated by the first convention in the territory to a seat in the territorial legislature, and he stumped the district at the risk of his life. At Nemaha City, where he had an appointment to speak, he found a large body of Missourians, headed by General David R. Atchison, then acting vice president of the United States, who informed him that if he attempted to speak, he would be " I'iddled with bullets." He did speak, however, and the very effrontery of his doing so probably saved his life. At this election every precinct was invaded by Missourians, who, in many instances, took the ballot-boxes back to Missouri with them. Dr. Cutler received a large majority of the legal votes, and Governor Reeder gave him the certificate of election ; but it is needless to say. General Stringfellow, his opponent, got the seat. Dr. Cutler was in every battle during that jirotracted war, was a prisoner at one time, and had many miraculous escapes from death. He was a member of the Topeka constitutional convention, was twice elected state auditor under that constitution, and was a member of the first state legislature. When the civil war broke out he organized a company and went to Washington, and took part in the defense of the city. He was appointed United States Indian agent by President Lincoln. He had 20,000 of the southern Indians under his care during the war to be fed and clothed. During his term of office he disbursed over a million dollars, and assisted in putting two regiments of Indians in the field. Dr. Cutler was afterward appointed state printer for the northern district of Texas, by Governor Davis, the republican governor of that state, and he established a paper at Sherman and one at Denison, Texas. While editing a paper at the latter place, a committee consisting of the mayor and the prominent citizens, waited on him and offered a large bonus if he would start a paper at Dallas, which he did, and the Daily Commercial soon became one of the leading papers in the state. Dr. Cutler subsequently went to Chicago, and began work in his chosen profession, where he soon established a large and lucrative practice.

In 1878 he married Miss Fannie Dougherty, who was born in Evansville. Her family were also identified with the early history of this city. Her. grandfather, Alexander Johnson, was one of the earliest settlers. She was a cousin of Hugh McGary, who owned large tracts of land here, and a niece of Marcus Sherwood, Thomas Johnson and Hon. Abram Phelps, of Newburgh. She was also a cousin of I. Neely Johnson, one of the early governors of California, who was born in Evansville. Miss Dougherty was a teacher in the public schools of Evansville for years. Her brothers, William, Frank and Henry Dougherty, enlisted from Evansville and fought during the late war. They are all dead now. In his boyhood days young Cutler was deputy postmaster, his half-brother, William H. Chandler, being postmaster. George's uniform good humor and assidious attention to business won him the respect of all the old citizens. Dr. Cutler organized a large colony in 1887, at Chicago. He afterward bought an extensive tract of land in California, and moved with his family to that state, where he now lives, engaged in the drug business at Los Angeles.

Charles Fletcher Jean

Charles Fletcher Jean was born of poor and humble parents, in Terre Haute, Indiana, in 1856. His father, John Miller Jean, was born at Carlisle, Indiana, July 28, 1828. His grandfather, Fletcher Jean, emigrated from Kentucky to Indiana, in the year 1818. The paternal ancestors of the subject of our sketch were French. His mother's maiden name was Rebecah Ann Taylor. She was born at Eockville, Indiana, January 22, 1830, and died at Robinson, Illinois, November 29, 1893. His father, at the age of sixty-eight, is still living, and is actively engaged in the produce business at Robinson, Illinois. His father and his four brothei's, together with his grandfather, were carpenters by trade. At the age of eleven his parents moved from Terre Haute to Sullivan, Indiana. At the age of fourteen he left home, returning to Terre Haute, where he secured a position in the Terre Haute House as bell boy. Mr. Perry Huston,'who is part owner and manager of the St. George Hotel of this city, was then manager of the Terre Haute House. Mr. Jean held this position for about eight months. He then went to Indianapolis and secured a position as driver of a delivery wagon for a grocery store. Later he became clerk in the same store, where he continued in these two capacities for about three years. He then returned home to Sullivan, Indiana, and entered school. At the age of nineteen he secured a position as clerk in a dry goods store at Sullivan, Indiana. At the age of twenty-one he received in marriage the hand of Miss Maud Hancock, whose father at that time was sheriff of Sullivan county. Three years later he engaged in the produce business with his father and brother, E. T. Jean, and was sent to Newton, Illinois, to open a branch house. After remaining there about two years he went to Shelbyville, Illinois, to open a branch house, where he remained about four years. From there he was sent to Carmi, Illinois, on the same business enterprise. He lived in Carmi about three years. He moved to Evansville in 1889, and established headquarters for Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois and Missouri points. Two yeai's ago he dissolved partnership, selling the Illinois and Missouri points to his brothers and jiurchasing the Indiana and Kentucky points, since which time he has been doing l)usiness under the style of C. F. Jean. The first ten years of his business career were hard and comparatively unsuccessful, but in the past few years he has been fairly prosperous. His family consists of five children, three sons and two daughters. He has never aspired to any political office, but in Carmi he was elected as councilman and served two years. He was nominated for mayor of the city of Evansville, by the republican party, at the primary election on Tuesday, February 23, 1897, a compliment of which he was in every sense worthy. Mr. Jean stands foremost among the business men of Evansville.

Oiin F. Glover

Was born near Harrisburgh, Pennsylvania, March 29, 1814. His grandfather was a revolutionary soldier, and Jos. Glover, his father, served in the war of 1812. His mother was Margaret Ferguson, of Scotch-Welsh descent - a woman of strong religious principles of the Puritanical type. At an early age John entered the store of Abraham Oves, a distinguished merchant of Harrisburgh, where he served as salesman and book-keeper. One of his associate clerks was W. S. Culbertson, with whom he formed a stroog attachment which lasted through life. In 1834 he removed to Louisville and went into the saw mill and lumber yard of his uncle, IMatiiew Ferguson. In 1838

Mr. Glover married Miss Lucinda Catharine Simons, a niece of ]\Irs. Matthew Ferguson. Mrs. Glover was the daughter of Arad and Catharine Winehel Simons, who came west from Lebanon, New Hampshire, in 1817, and took up land in Perry county, Indiana. Mrs. Glover was born February 6, 1818. Her mother died soon after her birth and she was brought up by her mother's sister, Mrs. Ferguson, the wife of Mr. Glover's uncle.

Eleven children were the fruit of this union: Catharine (Mrs. C. M. Tileston, of Minneapolis); Joseph E. died at the age of five years; Margaret died at the age of 12 years; Olive (now the widow of W. A. Culbertson); Waliis, of Montgomery, Alabama, died in 1896; Bren, mysteriously disappeared from Chicago in 1878; Allen S., of Cincinnati; Edward D., died in 1884; Fanny died at the age of one year; Dr. John F., of this city, and Lucie G. died in 1884. In December, 1852, Mr. Glover arrived in Evansville. He at once opened a lumber yard on the corner of Main and Seventh streets. His career was one of unwavering integrity and commendable enterprise. Mr. Glover was very successful in Sunday school organization. He was sujierintendent of Brook street Sunday school, Louisville, previous to his residence in Evansville. He also served the following churches in the capacity of Sunday school superintendent: Ingle street. City Mission, then held in Cresent Hall, corner Main and Third streets, Kingsley and Trinity. He was one of the organizers of Kingsley church and also one of the founders of the Christian Home, on Fulton avenue. He was a successful merchant and a devoted Christian worker. His death occurred September 15, 1884. Mrs. Glover survived her husband just ten years, lacking one day, her death occuring on September 14, 1894. She was a most excellent woman and a devoted wife and mother.

Mr. Cook was born in Fulton county, New York. When twentyone years old he went to Massachusetts and there learned the cottonmill business. That portion of his life spent in Massachusetts was at Taunton. He removed to Balston, Saratoga county, N. Y., in October, 1844, where he still pursued the business of cotton manufacturing. In October, 1850, he located at Cannelton, Indiana, as agent for the Cannelton Cotton-mill company, and started a mill at that point. Mr. Cook felt a desire to changfe the nature of his pursuit, and so on May 20, 1852, lie arrived in Evansville, and on June 20th the same year, up in the wholesale grocery business, on First street, between Main and Locust streets, at number 323. Cook's "Oriental Tea Store" supplied hotels, restaurants, steamboats, boarding houses and private families. His wholesale grocery trade was flattering. He introduced the novelty of the free-delivery system, and despite all aside remarks the other competitors were soon compelled to use it. In time the business 'grew and the list of customers was enlarged. His great desire to please his customers in all respects and his genial attitude toward them added to his trade. He was a stirring, live business man, conducting business with a dash and boldness that won. He was a leader, uot a follower. Mr. Cook served faithfully in the common council of the city, and took a leading part in many of the movements for the good of the city. He died while filling the office of justice of the peace, in June, 1882. He retired from the grocery business in his latter days, and his son, Henry A. Cook, succeeded him. Henry A. Cook and his son, Harry N., ai-e to-day doing a large wholesale and retail groceiy business at the corner of Main and Fourth streets, number 331. They handle extensively all classes of groceries, and with the greatest watchfulness to details and prompt filling of orders they have secured and hold a large patronage in and out of the city.

H. A. Cook was born September 10, 1 835, at Blackstone, Massachusetts. His brother, Norval L., shortly after he entered the army in defence of the Union, was drowned at St. Louis. He had two sisters, Verona and Medora M. Mr. Cook is a very active man, full of energy, remarkably industrious, most intelligently accommodating, liberal in views, and a member of St. Paul's Episcopal church. He is a man of wide reading, a staunch republican, and a member of the Masonic fraternity and a Knight Templar. He has been as free from the desire of public office or notoriety as any man in the city, and he discusses public issues with a surprising clearness and the fullness of one who has read much. Mr. Cook was mai-ried to Miss Carrie J. Clark. She died November 18, 1888. To them were born four children, ail of whom are living: Harry N., Caroline J., Genevieve M. and Anna M. His son, Harry N. Cook, was born in this city. He is the exact prototype of his father in commercial alertness, business comprehension, wide-awake industry, intelligent enterprise and social complais-

Thomas P. Brixton

Of whom this biography will speak, was born in Roekport, Spencer county, Ind., July 20, 1832. He was one of the eight children of Thomas Piudall Britton, of Spencer county. His brothers were : John F., James and Frank Britton, and his sisters were : Mary, Virginia, Rachel and Caroline Britton. Mr. Britton passed his early life in and abfiut Roekport, attended the public schools of that place and received a fair education. He was afterward engaged in the livery stable business in Roekport, and was as successful as the business of the town would permit. In the year, 1858, he was united in niai-riage to Sarah E. Brown, also of Roekport, Ind. He soon found that Roekport Mas too small for his broad ideas of business, and two years later, in the year, 1860, moved with his family to Evausville, where Mr. Britton, in partnership with John Richardson, a relative of his, embarked in the livery stable business, and were quite successful in that vocation. Mr. Britton bought real estate in and about Evansville, and his judgment on such occasions was admired by all. His friends saw in him a man of fine business qualities. He was fond of horses, owned several fine specimens, and took a great deal of interest in all turf matters. In the fall of 1878, his friends nominated him for treasurer of Vanderburgh county, and he was elected by a handsome majority. Mr. Britton served his term in grand style, and made quite a reputation as the servant of the people by his honest, straightforward and busiuess-like methods, and made many warm and lasting friends. He was re-elected in 1880, but the arduous duties connected with that office soon began to tell on his health, and in the summer of 1883, he was confined to his bed, and on the 31st of July, his spirit departed from this world, respected and loved l)y all, leaving behind him a bereaved family and a countless number of sad friends to mourn his demise.

Jacob Weintz

One of the most efficient and useful citizens of Evansville was Jacob Weintz. His business relations were such as to make him known to everj'body and to win their confidence and respect.

Mr. Weintz was born in Albig, Grand Duchy, Hesse-Darmstadt, Gei-many, on November 21, 1830. His father, Peter Weintz, was a farmer. There he gained an education in the common schools, and spent his young life upon a farm. He came to America in 1843> when only thirteen years old, touching first at New Orleans, thence preceeding up the Mississippi river to St. Louis. The family remained there several months, but later came to Indiana and settled upon a farm in Posey county. Four years afterward, in 1847, he located in Evansville and learned the tinner's trade under Mr. Kollenberg, and later kept store and made tinware for Kratz & Heilman. He subsequently became superintendent of the Kratz & Heilman foundry and machine shops. After the dissolution of the firm in 1866 he still retained this position under the proprietorship of his half brother, William Heilman. When the business was organized into a corporation in 1884, he became pecuniarily interested in it and still performed the duties of superintendent, a place he was successfully filling at the time of his death. He was connected with this business througii its period of growth to prosperity and its present great proportions. His relations to his brother were close and confidential, so that when the estate of Mr. Heilman was taken out of the court in 1893, he was appointed trustee of the same. This was a great trust, but he filled it honorably and well, as he did everything else he undertook. At the time of his death he was president of the Evansville Cotton Manufacturing Company, and superintendent of the Heilman machine works - positions he filled efficiently and creditably. He was a successful business man, possessing that tact and close application to business which never fail to attain success. His life, in a sense, is a page in the history of the city. In every good work and enterprise for the good of the people and the prosperity of the city he not only had a good word, but a ready hand and an open 2)urse. A man very conscientious, he was honest in every business transaction, and his loyalty to his friends was unswerving and true. He was a plain man, unassuming and modest in his course in life. He disliked publicity. In regard to his business or social conduct it was a favorite saying of his that the "act would explain itself." He multiplied no words, where a good deed would explain better. His love of truth and right was a strong element in his nature, and he never swerved from these great cardinal principles. A fine quality of benevolence moved him all along the pathway of life to do deeds of charity and help the needy and distressed. Many a time has his open hand extended aid in a substantial way, when no return was expected. His heart was often touched by the hard circumstances of some one, whom he aided liberally. To every good and worthy object he was a ready contributor. He had a kind heart and a gentle nature, and many were the noble acts he did. His friendly manner and social qualities endeared him to all. He was particularly fond of children, and business was rarely so pressing that a child could not gain his sympathetic attention. In his domestic life he was an exemplary man, and his home was the one supreme spot in all the world to him. He was happy in his domestic relations.

He was first married to Elizabeth Woll May 27, 1856. To them were born Henry P., Clara E. and William. Their only daughter, Clara, died November 13, 1873, in the early part of her fifteenth year. The beloved mother of these children died January 29, 1866. She was an estimable lady and highly beloved. Her home was a home of peace and love, and as a wife and mother her memory was cherished with affection and her beautiful life left a lasting impression. He was married the second time to Elizabeth Kron, widow of Frederick Kron, on June 22, 1869, and her death occurred on September 7, 1877. He was married to Charlotte Straub December 9, 1879. She survives him. Of this union one son, Edward J., was born, and he is still living.

Mr. Weintz had been a member of St. John's Evangelical church - one of the earliest. He aided materially in building the church on Third and Ingle streets. In later years he was a member of First Avenue Presbyterian church, and for many years was a member of the board of trustees of the same. His political affiliations were with the republican party. His death occurred at his home on Carpenter street on June 19, 1897, and is greatly deplored by his family and all who knew him.

The Elliott Family

The Elliott family are to-day thoroughly American, as this brief sketch will show you. Back as far as 1740 an emigrant colony, from adjoining counties in England and Wales, settled in the vicinity of Mobsic Bay, Gloucester county, Virginia. In this colony were the first members of the Elliott lineage, and they settled on a new plantation within about four miles of where Yorktown was located, and Ijegan life in this magical new country - this Eldorado - upon a farm.