Vigo County, Indiana - Chapter 26: Terre Haute's Importance A]\iong Horseaien, 1908 (part 1 of 4)

Chapter 26: Terre Haute's Importance A]\iong Horseaien

A history of Vigo county without aUusion to its famous horses, horsemen and racing will omit something which interested its people almost from its beginning. The maintenance of running or trotting tracks during the last seventy-five years has brought hither the greatest drivers of the land, has resulted in the establishment of stock farms and given to the county and city almost world-wide celebrity. \\'e do not know much about the first races, when the southern-born citizens indulged in one of their favorite sports, only that at the beginning when Terre Haute was a village, racing was a popular sport. It was all running until the first trotting park was made on the Corbin farm, now a part of Martin park, about 1851-52. Not far away was a camp-meeting ground, and it was said that the two institutions were not intimate.

There were races in the spring of 1852 lasting three days at the Corbin farm. The first day a purse of $125 for two mile heats for trotters and pacers: the second day a purse of $150, three mile heats, for trotting horses under saddle or harness, and thfrd day, a purse of $75, mile heat, three out of five, for trotters and pacers to go as they please.

Terre Haute is noted in the racing world as the home of the "Four Cornered Track," unique among race courses. In order to understand rthv the course is as it is, one must go back and look at the conditions under which it was laid out. The Terre Haute Trotting Association secured the present half-mile track with the intention of putting in a mile track. When the survevors looked the ground over, they found that there was not sufficient space to build a track of the usual form, so the association had to content themselves with a half-mile track of the oval style. A few race meets were held on this, and it was found that a mile track must be put in in some form or other, if the club intended to have high-class meets. Engineers were consulted and it was decided to build a mile track around the old halfmile, in such a way that the same home stretch could be used for both tracks. In order to accomplish this the mile track at the turn into the stretch had to be raised higher than the half-mile to prevent the sulkies upsetting at the curve. This had the desired effect so far as the sulkies were concerned, but when the horses came to the hill and started to go over they were in nearly all cases thrown off their feet, thus preventing a good finish. This track was built in the fall of 1886 and after one meet had been held the directors of the association, who would not be satisfied with anything but the best, decided to put in a mile track in whatever form was possible in the grounds which they had at their disposal. Surveyor George R. Grimes was engaged, and after looking over the field he drew the draft of the track as it now stands. All the old track forms were impossible and Mr. (_irinies had to originate a form which would suit the conditions. The National road, which runs along the south side, prevented the course from being square with round turns, and the odd shape shown was the result. So it was that the form just happened, and if there is any virtue in the shape, it is a matter of luck and not of calculation.

Many great horses have broken records on this course. The fame of Nancy Hanks is associated with the Terre Haute track. It has been said that the great horse i\xtell, which was sold as a three-year-old at the Terre Haute track for $105,000, did more to make Terre Haute famous than all our industries put together. A.xworthy, a son of Axtell, was born and bred at the Warren Park farm, and trained at the Terre Haute track till three years old, when he started out to win honor by making a threeyear-old record of 2:1514. .\n injury took him off' the track, and he was sold for $500. ]\Iany thought the price was high at that, but Axworthy became known as one of the great sires of trotting colts, among them General Watts, which recently trotted a mile in 2:06^, lowering the record for three-year-olds. Axtell's record as a three-year-old, made in 1889, when he trotted a mile in 2:12, stood for seventeen vears.

The late ]Mr. U. R. Jeft'ers probably never found as much pleasure in any thing as h.e did in the fair and trotting associations and the comjianionship of the usually able and excellent men who composed their boards in the last twenty years of his life. He took hold of the fair work at a time when the city enterprise required that business men should encourage the county fair, and so when Terre Haute made a bid for the state fair, \lr. Jeft'ers gave a hand to the great enterprise. He was a practical horseman by e.xperience, having driven horses to a stage, to the traveling peddler's wagon and in every way that demanded hard work and nerve. It was related that when, as a young man. he drove busses for the old Stewart House, he could drive four horses in a circle around a post, keeping one hub of the bus tight against the post. As a man of leisure, who had retired from business somewhat unwillingly, he naturally put a great deal of work into whatever he had to do, to satisfy his old love for work, and he spent more time at the fair grounds than any one will again unless paid fot his time, but it was his wav to be thorough.

Hon. George ^^^ Paris has gained distinction as a member of the Terre Haute bar but has never concentrated liis attention upon his profession to the exckision of other interests which are of vital moment to the individual and to the state. On the contrary he has kept abreast with the thinking men of the age and in connection with his political service has enunciated principles and beliefs of wide interest, arriving at his conclusions as a result of what may be called his post-graduate studies in the school of affairs. The clarity of his views and the effectiveness of his labors find tangible evidence in the results which he has achieved in awakening the public interest in certain momentous situations and also in the work he has done for municipal progress and advancement.

He was born near Rensselaer, in Jasper county, Indiana, June g, 1854, his parents being James C. and Margaret M. (Brown) Paris, natives of Kentucky and Indiana respectively. In his boyhood days the son attended the common schools and worked upon the home farm until he reached the age of eighteen. In the fall of 1872 he became a student in the old Asbury University, now Depauw University, at Greencastle, from which he was graduated in 1877. The class that year was one of the largest and perhaps the ablest in the history of that institution. Mr. Paris worked his way through college and may well be proud of the fact that he was a member of that class and his own career reflects not a little credit upon its record.

During the last year or two of his college course Air. Paris took up the study of law and was admitted to the bar in Greencastle in 1877, subsequently entering the law office of Claypool & Ketcham, of Indianapolis. Another important event in his life occurred in the year following - his marriage to Miss Anna Claypool, eldest daugljter of the Hon. Solomon Claypool. of Indianapolis. He removed to Colorado on account of the ill health of his wife, and in 1880 became a resident of Terre Haute, where Mr. Paris entered upon the practice of law in partnership with the late George C. Duy, and in 1883 with the late Samuel R. Hamill. He soon took rank with the leaders of the \'igo county bar and few lawyers have made more lasting impression upon the bar of this part of the state for legal ability of a high order and for the individuality of a personal character which impresses itself upon a community.

Mr. Paris has also been prominent in politics for many years. He has been a close student of the great questions affecting the state and national welfare and has labored untiringly for the interests of the Republican party. For four years he served as chairman of the Republican county committee and in 1891 he was appointed county attorney. In 1894 he was the Republican nominee for Congress in the old eighth district and was elected by a large majority. In 1896, the state having been redistricted. he was re-elected in the present fifth thslrict. and received further endorsement of an ahnost irreproachable public service in a third election in 1898. To the important questions which came up for consideration in the law making body of the nation he gave a careful consideration, proving that he belongs, to that public-spirited, useful and helpful type of man whose ambitions and desires are centered and directed in those channels through which flow the greatest and most permanent good to the greatest number. He has felt a most hearty concern for the public welfare and has been most helpful in bringing about those wholesome reforms which have been gradually growing in political, municipal and social life in Terre Haute.

George M. Faris, son, died in Terre Haute, in October, 1907. at the age of twenty-eight, a practicing lawyer in partnership with his father. The only other living child is Ruby Claypool, wife of Maurice E. Tennant, a lawyer of Indianapolis.

George Mortimer F.\ris, of Terre Haute, who died October 6, 1907, in the city which has been his home since infancy, was one of the most promising members of the ^'igp county bar and a really beloved citizen of the younger generation. His early decease was the more regrettable, since he was finely equipped both by natural talent and edtication for the broadest advancement in his profession and in the paths of citizenship. His father, Hon. George W. Faris. is a distinguished and honored member of the' bar, and his maternal grandfather, Hon. Solomon Claypool, late of Indianapolis, was one of the foremost lawyers and jurists of the state of Indiana, and was at one time judge of the circuit court of Vigo county. Education, temperament and ancestral tendencies all seemed to presage a useful, honorable and brilliant career for the young man, but his wheel of worldly life was to stop far short of its normal revolution, and when it stopped the tears of grief which were shed in the community were mingled with a large share of regret that providence had so cut short his years.

George M. Faris was the only son of George W. and Anna (Claypool) Faris, and although born in Colorado March 25, 1879. his parents returned to Terre Haute during his infancy, so that he has always been regarded as a son of that city. He passed through its public schools, graduated from its high school with honor, and in 1900 graduated from the literary department of the DePauw University. At this time, owing to the fact that his father, who had long represented the district in Congress, desired his services as his secretary at Washington, the young graduate went to Washington and in the capacity named acquired most valuable knowledge of the lawmaking powers and processes at the national capital. Deciding naturally upon the law as his profession, he pursued a thorough course at the National Law School, Washington, and soon after securing his diploma in 1902. returned with his parents to his old home in Terre Haute. As an associate with his father in both law and business, the five years of his career brought him marked success, esteem and wide friendship, and that public confidence in his ability and honor had expanded even beyond his character as a lawyer is evidenced by his nomination as a representative to the Indiana legislature in the fall of 1906. On December 12, 1906, Mr. Faris was married to Miss Saidee Cornelia Spaulding, of Chicago, and their few months of union were most happy. His home life had always been marked by an affectionate harmony of singular strength, and in his sister especially he had found a companion whom he fairly idolized. After his marriage those strong home ties remained unbroken, and it was here that he passed away, surrounded by devoted wife, parents and sister. A member of the Terre Haute bar and a friend well describes the young man as "courteous, sensitive, strong, faithful, willing and winsome ; a lover of his loved ones and the good, and a battler for the right." The Vigo County Bar Association passed resolutions of eulogy and condolence, and both the superior and circuit courts adjourned on the day of his funeral as a mark of respect and sorrow. The resolutions were read by Judge Stimson. Judge I. N. Pierce, an early associate and friend of Judge Claypool. made a beautiful and moving address, and was followed by A. M. Higgins, A. J. Kelly, Judge Colliver, Daniel \'. ^filler. Judge Walker and George O. Dix, all expressive of heartfelt sorrow at the removal of the young, promising, lovable man, who during his short career had so won their aiifection and esteem.

James N. Phillips has been a resident of Vigo county throughout his entire life and has been prominently identified with its industrial interests. He was well fitted for his successful business life by an excellent educational training in his youth, attending first the public schools of Terre Haute and later was a student in the old Asbury University of Greencastle. His time is now principally devoted to the superintending of his landed interests and the real estate business. He has bought and sold land in Kansas, and was at one time the vice president of the Crystal Salt Works at Hutchinson, that state, and was also for a time identified with the coal mining business at Gladstone, Kentucky, as the president and general manager of the Gladstone Coal Mining Company. For eight years, from 1878 to 1886. he served as the recorder of Vigo county, and at the present time is a member of the county council, having been elected to that important body in 1906. receiving at the election the largest majority ever given in the county for that office.

Mr. Phillips was born in Terre Haute May 14. 1839, a son of Aquilla and ^Matilda (Dudley) Phillips, both of whom were born in Maryland and were of English descent. The father, born in t8oo, was a cabinet maker in his early business life, but later turned his attention to farming. In 1837, accompanied by his family, he journeyed overland with horse team to Indiana and established his home in what is now Terre Haute. In 1841 he bought a farm in Otter Creek township, on which had been built a hewed log house, and this in time was replaced by a frame residence. On that farm he spent his remaining days, dying in December, 1875. He was a life-long member of the Methodist church and was a Jefferson and Jackson Democrat politically. Mrs. Phillips was born in 1816, and died in 1896. They were married in 1833 and became the parents of eight children : Edwin, James H., Emma, Barbara E., Clara, P>ell. Fred, and one, the second born, who is deceased.

James N. Phillips was born in Terre Haute May 14, 1839, and was a young man of twenty-two years at the time of the inauguration of the Civil war. On the 22d of July, 1862, he donned the blue in defense of his country and became a member of Company F, Seventyfirst Illinois \'olunteer Regiment, of which he was made the second lieutenant, and served his term of enlistment. He was discharged at Chicago. In 1866 Mr. Phillips began farming in Harrison township, Vigo county, but in 1902 left the farm there and moved to the land he had purchased in Otter Creek township, his present homestead. He had purchased the farm in 1885, and it contains one hundred and seventyone acres of rich and fertile land.

Mr. Phillips was united in marriage, August 15, 1865, to Miss Julia E. Balding, who was born in Ohio, October 17, 1846, a daughter of Nathan and Lucinda (Yoho) Balding, both also natives of that commonwealth. The father left his farm there in 1850 and journeyed with a horse team to Vigo county, Indiana, becoming one of the early pioneers of Otter Creek township, where he purchased two hundred acres of land. He served his adopted county as a commissioner and was a Jackson Democrat politically. He had married before leaving his native state of Ohio, and became the father of eight children, but only five are now living: John, Clarinda, Achsah, Sarah and James N. Mrs. Phillips is among the number who have passed away, dying December 9, 1905, after becoming the mother of seven children, namely: Helen, the wife of O. B. Hall; Charles A., who married Lucy Brown; Ransom B.. who married Cora Donnelly, and Frank, Edith, Linnie and Wallace. Mr. Phillips is a stanch and true Democrat and is a member of Lodge No. 19. Ancient Free and Accepted Masons. His religious membership is with the Methodist Episcopal church.

Charles Elmer Eevin^ D. D. S., the respected and prosperous practitioner of Terre Haute, is of an old substantial Southern family, which has been established in the Hoosier state for more than threequarters of a century. A great-grandfather, Charles iNIorgan, on the maternal side, was a Virginian, who served in the Revolutionary war in a company of volunteers under Captain Biggs. The paternal greatgrandfather came from Ireland, and in 1803 settled at AMnsboro, South Carolina, removing to Indiana in 183 1. In that state the family has since resided. The Doctor was born at Princeton. Indiana, on the 9th of December, 1865, son of John Riley and Sarah A. ( Finney ) Ervin. His parents were also born in Princeton, the father March 13, 1834, and the mother February 26, 1839, both being contented members of a farming community and descendants of yeoman stock in Ireland and the South Atlantic states. The children of I\Ir. and ]\Irs. John R. Ervin were as follows : iMary Alice, wife of Henry Lewis Binkley, of Princeton ; Robert F. Ervin, aged forty-seven, who still resides on the old homestead near Princeton ; Dr. C. E. Ervin, of this sketch, and Otis Oscar Ervin, who died in infancy.

Dr. Ervin was reared in Princeton, receiving his fundamental education in the public schools there, and afterward pursuing a professional course in the Indiana Dental College, graduating from the latter in the class of 1890, and in, 1892 began practice in Terre Haute, and his residence there has since been a continuous progress, both in dental practice and personal favor. He is an active member of the Indiana Dental Association, of which organization he served as a trustee for three years. He is also identified with the Paul Revere Lodge, Knights of Pythias, and the Court of Honor, of Terre Haute. C3n January' 30. i89fi, Dr. Ervin married IMiss Agnes [Nlc^Iinn, of Terre Haute, and to their union two children have been born : Arthur Darwin, August 14, 1897. and Alildred ^Margaret, April 24, 1900.

How.\RD Dig C.vton, D. D. S.. was born in the city of Terre Haute, Indiana, on the lOth of January, 1884. and has already obtained a high reputation among the dental practitioners of his native place. He is the fifth child of George W. and Sarah ( McGill) Caton. and his father is a well known contractor and a citizen of Terre Haute of twenty-five years honorable standing. George W. Caton is a native of Ohio, and the eight children of his family are as follows : Charles, now deceased : Elton, living at the age of thirty-one ; May, aged twenty-nine, who is the wife of Ralph Beach and living at Dayton, Wyoming : \\'alker, twenty-six years of age: Howard D., twenty-four; Robert, twenty-two: George, eighteen, and Franklvn, also deceased.

After receiving his preliminary education in the schools of Tcrre Haute, the Doctor matriculated at the Indiana Dental College, Indianapolis, from which he graduated in the class of 1907. He immediately located in Terre Haute, where he has been known all his life and where his wide and appreciative acquaintance, added to his high professional requirements, has brought him a large and profitable practice. His suite of offices in the new Terre Haute Trust building is handsomely appointed, and his ^appliances are modern and complete. His patients are numbered among the cultured and substantial people, and recognize him as among the able and satisfactory practitioners of the city. The Doctor is a member of the Central Christian church.

John Colem.vx V.vughan, D. D. S., is the professional representative of a family in Terre Haute, whose members have attained an honorable standing in whatever fields they have chosen. He is a native of Ohio, born at Pomeroy, on the 27th of November, 1872. and a son of .\. W. and Harriet (Coleman) Vaughan. The father is English-born, and is a substantial business man of Terre Haute, while the mother is a daughter of Illinois. The senior Mv. \'aughan has also been somewhat prominent in public afifairs, having served as a member of the board of public works, of Terre Haute, during the adininistration of Mayor Bideman. Besides the Doctor, the children of his family arc Edward, aged thirty-eight, and Maud, thirty-three, who is the wife of R. H. Jenkins; all reside in Terre Haute.

In nearly all but birth. Dr. A'aughan is a product of Indiana and her institutions. He was educated in the city schools of Terre Haute, and graduated in 1896 at the Indiana Dental College. He at once located in Terre Haute, and there commenced practice in partnership with Dr. MaU. This association has proved both harmonious and mutuallv profitable, and the elegant offices of the firm at Sixth and Ohio streets are patronized by a high-class and dependable clientele who appreciate modern methods and honest work.

On June 30, i8g8, Dr. \'aughan was united in marriage with Miss Nellie Whaley, of Terre Haute, and their child. Margaret L., is now three years of age. Both the Doctor and his wife affiliate with the United Brethren congregation. He is a fraternalist of wide connections, being a member of the Ancient Free and Accepted Alasons, No. 86 : Occidental Lodge, No. 18, Knights of Pythias, and No. 83, Uniform Rank, Knights of Pythias, all of Terre Haute.

Dr. Clarence Franklix \\'illi.\ms is not only a fine, prosperous dentist, having a profitable practice and standing high with his associates of the profession, but he is enthusiastic and influential in fraternal circles and a leading spirit in the civic develo]inient of Terre Flaute. He is a Hoosier in the broadest and most thorough sense of the word. Born at Bedford. Indiana, on the 6th of September, 1869, he is a son of Capt. Thomas Carter and Elizabeth C. ( Fish) Williams. His parents are also both natives of the Hoosier state, the father being born October 14, 1838, and the mother, July 7, 1840. Besides Dr. Williams, the following were members of the family: Arista B., a well known Chicago lawyer; Ida A., wife of M. D. Crawley, of Chicago; Dr. Vinson V., who is a prominent dentist of Seattle, Washington ; Martha E. and Ruby C, who reside in Terre Haute.

Dr. Williams attended the high school at Sullivan, Indiana, and Terre Haute, and then entered the dental office of Dr. Robert Van Valzuh, who was one of Indiana's most prominent dentists. After three years' office work he entered the dental department of the University of Indianapolis, from which he received his degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery in 189 1. Immediately afterward he located at Terre Haute, and has been a progressive figure in all that relates to his profession and citizenship. He is an active member of both the Indiana and the Western Indiana Dental societies, and is also a member of the board of trustees of the Indiana State Dental .Association. Brief reference has been made to the importance of his fraternal relations. To speak more in detail, he has been active and officially honored in most of the following : Pienevolent and Protective Order of Elks, No. 86, of Terre Haute ; Euclid Lodge, No. 573, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons; Occidental No. 18, Knights of Pythias, Terre Haute, and Uniform Rank, Knights of Pythias, No. 3, of the same city; Shambah Temple, No. 139, Dramatic Order Knights of Khorassan, Indianapolis; Friendship Lodge, No. 41, Knights and Ladies of Honor, Terre Haute, and \'igo Tent, No. 43, Knights of the Maccabees. At the present time Dr. Williams stands especially high in the Knights of Pythias, being assistant commissary general of the L'niform Rank. He is an active member of the Commercial Club, the leading civic organization of Terre Haute, and is a Democrat of influence and sound views.

On December 28, 1892, the Doctor was wedded to Miss Mary E. Cox, daughter of James Cox, of Terre Haute, and their children are as follows : Marie Clementine, Helen Louise, and James Thomas. Both Dr. and Mrs. Williams are closely identified with the Central Christian church.

Nicholas Eilbeck. - Among the best known citizens of Torre Hante is Nicholas Eilbeck, who has been a resident of the city for over half a century, and during the greater part of that long period has stood as one of the leading men of the community, prominent in its Inisiness, political and social affairs. Air. Eilbeck is a native son of Germany, born December 15, 1843, ^^ \'iernheim, He.'^se Darmstadt, a son of Philip and Anna AI. ( Winkler ) hllbeck. The family, consisting of father, mother and four children, came to the United States in 1847, niaking their home for a time in Indianapolis, and it was in that city the mother died. The father placed his children in the keeping of friends and went west, but returned in 1850 and established his home in Terre Haute, his children joining him here three years later, but in the meantime two had died, Nicholas and Mar}- alone surviving.

Nicholas Eilbeck attended both the public and the Lutheran schools of Terre Haute. As a boy he earned his own way, working at various occupations, and after leaving school he worked for four years in his father's grocery store. When the Civil war broke out he was but a lad of seventeen years, but he was fired with a desire to do what he could as a soldier for his adopted country, and in August. 1861, without the knowledge of his father, he enlisted in the Thirty-second Indiana Infantry Regiment, known as the "Eirst German Regiment," under Colonel Willich. The Thirty-second was to rendezvous at Indianapolis, and in order to get away from home without arousing his father's suspicions young Eilbeck preceded the regiment by a day or so to the state capital, but in spite of all his precautions the father obtained knowledge of the son's intentions, and following him, succeeded in getting possession of the young soldier and conveyed him to the hotel. But the son made his escape and rejoined his regiment, and as the father came to recognize the extent of his son's determination, gave his consent to his joining the ranks of the Indiana soldiers.

Mr. Eilbeck was with his regiment at the first Kentucky fight at Rowlett's station, in the second day's fight at Shiloh under General Buell, the siege of Corinth, and at Battle Creek, Alabama, from there passed through Jasper and Sequatchie valleys up to Walden Ridge Gap, from which point the army ( McCook's Division ) advanced on Chattanooga. There being no cavalry at that time with Mc- Cook's Division, the Thirty-second was placed in advance and Companv E in the lead. Mr. Eilbeck was given the honor of first scout to survey the route. When he reached the foot of Sequatchie valley, he halted with a flag of truce, and after being taken to a commanding ofScer he was recognized as one of our scouts (spies). His information was that General Bragg was on the mountain above the gap with 40,000 men. Our army at once was ordered back on a new route to head off General Bragg, which took the army to Louisville, and from there he went with his regiment to Frankfort and the fight at Salt river, was in the skirmishing along that river, on to Nashville and the battle of Stone River, where Mr. Filbeck was wounded December 31, 1862. This wound was in the fleshy part of the right leg. and as the tendons of the foot were cut, Mr. Filbeck became a cripple for life. After receiving his wound he was assisted away quite a distance and left lying on the field, and while Iving there calling for help he attracted the attention of a passing cavalryman who put him on his horse and carried him to a house. This friend was a rebel spy, and for some time our wounded young soldier was cared for by the people of the enemy, a kindness he has never forgotten. He was in the hands of Dick ]McCann"s rebel cavalry for twelve days, during which time his wound could not receive proper treatment, but these rebel friends later helped him to reach the Union hospital at Nashville, where he remained from January 12th to February i4tli. In the meantime, for the want of proper treatment, his wound threatened certain death, gangrene had set in and lockjaw followed. His father, notified by the authorities that he could not live, went to him and eventually succeeded in getting him to the hospital at Louisville; Kentucky, where he was helpless in bed from February 14th to May 5, 1863. He was sent from that city to Indianapolis, thence to the Soldiers' Home, and when able to go on crutches, was given a forty days' furlough home. While still on crutches he begged the commanding officer to send him to his regiment, refusing an honorable discharge, and finally received the order for his return to his regiment, which he found on the eve of march. For appearance sake he discarded his crutches for a cane, not at all adequate to his support, and he was, to say the least, totally unfit for duty. In order that he might ride he was temporarily assigned to duty with the quartermaster, joining his regiment at Bellefonte, Alabama, after Chickamauga. At Chattanooga the non-commissioned officers of his old company unanimously asked him to become orderly sergeant, but his physical disabilities prevented his accepting. He was then on detached service in the brigade quartermaster's department. He was never under orders, but was with his regiment on all their moves to Chickamauga, Mission Ridge, Kjioxville, to the relief of "Burnside," then to Dallas, Georgia, Resaca, New Hope Church, Lost Mountain, Kenesaw Mountain, Alarietta, Chattahoochee River, the Atlanta Campaign, Peachtree Creek and from there was mustered out, September 7, 1864. He was with his regiment during the entire time, but was unable to carry arms.

father's mill, the old Telegraph Mill, and later, in conipau}- with his brnllier-in-law, B. Settele, he conducted the Cincinnati Hotel for three years. In 1869 he purchased the lease and fixtures of the Filbeck House, and in 1876 he purchased the house and grounds. He has been prominent in the public affairs of Vigo county and Terre Haute ever since the close of the war. and in 1868. when only twenty-five years of age, was nominated for sheriff of the county, coming within thirty-eight votes of the election, his extreme youth being the only thing that defeated him. In 1873 ''^''i^ appointed postmaster of Terre Haute, and served two full terms of ftnu" years each. For twenty years he was chairman of the Repu[)lican countv central committee, six years a member of the state committee and vice chairman of the i8t)6 campaign, and as long as he could be induced to fill the place his party trusted the management of all the campaigns to him. ITe is a member of the Grand .\rmy of the Repulilic, the Masonic fraternity and the Germania Societ\-.

Mr. Filbeck married, April 23, 1867, Rosina Kiefner, a daughter of Adam and Catherine Kiefner, of Lawrence county, Illinois, and to their union five children have been born as follows : .\nne Maria, Louise Catherine, Charles Henry, Rutherford Nicholas and Nelle Cecelia.

Ur. Walter Gowaxs Rice is not only one of the leading dentists of Terre Haute, but is a citizen of high social and moral influence. Born at Owensboro, Kentucky, on the 19th of June, 1874, he is the son of John F. Rice, also a native of that state, and for thirty-five years a widely known commercial traveler representing tb.e National Tobacco Company. He now resides on a farm at Fulton's Landing, Indiana, near Westport, Kentucky. The family was established in Kentucky as the result of the patriotic service performed by Dr. Rice's great-grandfather, who was i.me of seven brothers who received a tract of land in that state from the infant republic as a reward for the soldierly qualities displayed by him in the Revolutionary war. The Doctor's mother was Jane Gowans, wdiose father was a native of Scotland, and she is still living, the mother of the following, besides our subject : Sarah, now dead, who was the wife of H. S. Taylor, of St. Louis, Missouri ; Fanny, Mrs. T. E. Hall, whose husband is an attorney residing at Louisville, Kentucky, and Lucy, wife of Frank Dean, of Fulton's Landing, Indiana.

L'ntil he was twelve years of age Dr. Rice attended the village schools of his native place, after which he pursued a course of four years in the Louisville Training School for Boys. His professional education was obtained in the the dental department of the Central University of Kentucky, from which he graduated in 1897. The first period of his practice comprised eighteen months in Louisville, when (in December. 1898) he located in Terre Haute.

S82 Greater Terre Haute And Vigo County

On June 30, 1897, the year prior to becoming a resident of the city. Dr. Rice was united in marriage with Aliss Alice Marv Sparrow, a talented and popular young lady of Terre Haute. The wedding was solemnized at the Centenary Methodist Episcopal church, and was a social event which attained wide prominence. Their child. Alberta S., is now ten years of age. Both the Doctor and his wife are prominent members of the church named, which is the leading religious organization in the citv, the former being superintendent of the Sunday school. Professionally, his influence is strong and broad. He is an active member of the State Dental Association, and is recognized by the public and his fellow practitioners as one of the most skilled and reliable dentists in the state. His office was located in the Arcade building, from which he removed to the Trust building in August, 1908, and his already large patronage is constantly increasing. Speaking generally and finally, he is eminently successful in his profession, and is a substantial, useful and highminded citizen.

W. E. Bell^ M. D. - Amoiig the leaders in medicine and surgery, not only of Terre Haute, but of Indiana as well, the name of Dr. W. E. Bell takes high professional rank. Dmnng the past several years, however, he has done surgical work almost entirely, and since the establishment of the Union Hospital he has been a member of its stafif of physicians and surgeons. There are no favored positions to be given in the line of medical endeavor, prominence comes alone through merit and success is the reward for earnest labor, ability and the pursuit of a persistent purpose. Thus working his way upward Dr. Bell has long since left the ranks of the many to stand among the successful few.

A native son of Indiana, he was born on the ist of July, 1866, to A. ^^^ and Elizabeth (Price) Bell, who also claimed this as the commonwealth of their nativity. The father, born in Parke county, was for manv vears a prominent farmer and stock dealer there, but his later years were spent in Terre Haute, where he had moved when his son, the Doctor, was a lad of twelve. Thus the boy's early training was received in the public schools here, graduating from its high school in 1884. He then took up the study of bookkeeping and stenography, and for a short time was the bookkeeper for a drug house in this city, later was a stenographer in Indianapolis, and in the meantime pursued much private study in medicine. Finally entering the medical department of the University of Cincinnati he graduated in that institution on the 6th of March, 1890, and at once located for practice in Terre Haute, anrl here he has since remained. He is a man of broad scientific knowledge and has gained a leading position among the members of the medical fraternity in the state. He holds membership in the Vigo county and the

Indiana State Medical societies, the Esculapian jMedical Society of the Wabash V'alley and the American JMedical Association. Fraternally he is identified with the- Knights of Pythias and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.

Leo J. Weinstein, M. D. - Man's worth in the world is determined by what he has done for his fellow men. He who uses his energies only for his own good, failing to recognize individual responsibilitv and personal obligation, never wins or merits the confidence and warm regard of those among whom his lot is cast. Dr. Weinstein, however, is spoken of throughout Terre Haute in terms of deepest affection and good will, for in the practice of his chosen profession he availed himself of the opportunities for kindliness, for encouragement and for assistance rendered his fellow travelers. For a long period he continued as one of the active physicians and surgeons of the city, but is now living retired.

His birth occurred in Cincinnati, January 19, 1848. His father was a native of Russia, while his mother was of Cierman birth. She died when her son Leo was but six years of age and he was orphaned by the death of his father when a youth of eleven years. Earh" thrown upon his own resources he couragieously faced the situation before him and when still quite young placed a correct valuation upon character upbuilding and business enterprise. He acquired his education, although at somewhat of a disadvantage, in the schools of his native city, of Covington, Kentucky, and of Dayton, Ohio. It was necessary that he provide for his own support and he eagerly availed himself of any employment that would yield him an honest living. \'ery early in life he gained an experience in the clothing business and during the period of the Civil war, when but a youth, conducted an enterprise of that character at Pana, Illinois. Predilection, however, lead him to take up the study of medicine, his first preceptor being Dr. Huber, of Pana, while later he continued his reading under Dr. J. H. Neal, of Bement, Illinois. At a later date he availed himself of the opportunity to attend Rush Medical College, where he spent the year of 1867-8 as a student. As an under-graduate he began practicing in Piatt county, Illinois, and he further prepared for the profession in ]\Iiami Medical College, at Cincinnati, from which he was graduated in 1874. He remained a practitioner of Piatt county, Illinois, until 1878, and on the first of that year removed to Terre Haute, where he has since resided. His rise in his profession was rapid and after coming to this city he made continuous advancement not onlv in the amount of business which he gained, but in the skill with which he administered remedial agencies. He specialized to some extent in the treatment of the diseases of women, but always remained a general practitioner. In 1894 he went abroad and spent considerable time in the hospitals of London and Edinburgh, following the methods of the most notable physicians and surgeons of those cities. Thus with broadened efficiency he returned home. For years he was a member of the medical staff of the Union Hospital, of Terre Haute, as a specialist in gynecology. He is a member and was formerly president of the Aesculapian Medical Society of the Wabash Valley, and belongs also the \'igo County and the Indiana State Medical societies and the American ]\Iedical Association.

On Christmas day of 1866 was celebrated the marriage of Dr. Weinstein and ]\Iiss Thirza B. Hamilton, a native of Vigo county, and a daughter of J. B. Hamilton, a pioneer of the county. Their children are : Carrie L., now the wife of John \'. Baker, a resident of Fort Collins, Colorado ; Alice E., the wife of Alexander G. Cavins, of Indianapolis, Indiana, and Joseph H.

Dr. Weinstein has long been numbered among the Republican leaders of Terre Haute, his opinions carrying weight in the councils of his party, which has also honored him with election to public office. From 18S7 until 1889 he represented his ward in the city council, was secretary of the city board of health in 1884, and of Vigo county board of health from 1887 until 1889. In 1902 he was elected a member of the \'igo county council and continued in that position for two terms, acting as its president. His ability in public office has been widely acknowledged, and his loyalty to the trust reposed in him never questioned. His fraternal relations are with the Masons and the Odd Fellows, and his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the First Congregational church.

He is now largely living retired, his son Joseph being his worthy successor in practice. A gentleman of scholarly attainments and broad general culture as well a wide knowledge in the field of his chosen profession, his place in the w-orld has been one commanding honor and respect.

Joseph H. Weinstein, M. D., a son of Dr. Leo J. and Thirza B. (Hamilton) Weinstein, was born at Cisco, Illinois, July 16, 1876, and was but two years of age when brought by his parents to Terre Haute, in which city he was reared and educated, attending the public schools. He took up the study of medicine with his father as his preceptor and afterward continued his preparation for practice as a student in ^Nliami Medical College, of Cincinnati, Ohio. He is numbered among its alumni of 1897, and following his graduation he immediately located for practice in Terre Haute.. For eight years he was actively connected with the profession here and then went abroad in 1905, spending considerable time in investigation, research and observation in medical institutes and hospitals of Berlin, \'ienna and London. With greatly augmented knowledge and ability lie returned to the United States and spent some time in the New York Polyclinic, after which he resumed the practice of his profession in tliis city. Although a general practitioner he yet makes a study of gynecology and is now the gynecologist of the Union Hospital stafi". He belongs to the Aesculapian Aledical Societv of the Wabash Valley, to the Vigo County and Indiana State Medical societies and the American Medical Association, while in more specifically fraternal lines he is connected with the Independent Order of (Jdd Fellows and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.

In 1898 Dr. Weinstein was married to Miss Ann ]\I. Hunter, of this city, and their home is attractive by reason of its warm-hearted hospitality generously extended to their many friends. In politics Dr. Weinstein is a Republican, but while he keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day, he has never been an office seeker. On the contrary he has concentrated his energies upon professional duties and is making continuous progress in the profession he has chosen as a life work.

Hon. John Beggs, deceased, was one of Terre Hante's most successful business men and citizens, and for many years closely identified with its commercial and manufacturing interests. Although so conspicuously associated with the industries and public afifairs of the state, Mr. Beggs was a native of Ireland, born in County Fermanagh, April 6, 1832, a son of Edward Beggs. a manufacturer. In 1843 the family emigrated from the mother country to the United States, and established a home in Cincinnati, Ohio, the son being educated at Woodward College, of that city. Early in life he had learned the distilling business, and for a number of years was employed in that line at New Richmond, Ohio. In 1852 he commenced to operate a distillery of his own, but in the following year sold his plant at New Richmond and removed to Metamora, Franklin county, Indiana, where he established a distillery, engaged in real estate and became largely interested in the timber and lumber trade Six years later he removed to Laurel, Indiana, where he resided until 1879, when he became a citizen of Shelbyville, Indiana. It was during this period of his residence in Franklin county that he became quite influential in the politics of the Democratic party and the public afifairs of the state. In 1870 he was elected to the Indiana state senate, representing Franklin and Lhiion counties for two terms in the upper house of the legislature.

In 1872 ;\Ir. Beggs disposed of his interests in both ]\Ietamora and Laurel, then purchasing the plant of the Shelby Distilling Company, at Shelbyville, Indiana, but, as stated, did not make that city his home until 1879. He operated the Shelbyville distillery until 1886, when he was instrumental in organizing the Distillery and Cattle Feeding trust, with headquarters at Peoria, Illinois. In 1884 ilr. Beggs came to Terre Haute and became interested in the Wabash Distilling Company, of which he served as treasurer for a number of years. He was also made vice president of the Wabash Lumber Company. In company with Crawford Fairbanks, in 1886 he purchased the Terre Haute Brewing Company and became its vice president and general manager, retaining his interests in that corporation until his death. In 1894, when the Distilling and Cattle Feeding Company was formed, Mr. Beggs became its vice president, and, resigning his position with the Wabash Distilling Company, removed to Peoria, Illinois, the headquarters of the trust, and resided in that city until 1897. In that year he resigned from the vice presidency of the trust and returned to Terre Haute, continuing prominently identified with its interests and institutions until his death on the i8th of April, 1904. The deceased was a past master in Masonry, a member of the Grand Lodge of Odd Fellows, and wa's an Elk and Red ^lan.

In 1853 ]\Ir. Beggs married Rebecca Lewis, the ceremony taking place in Kentucky. Mrs. Beggs died on the 9th of March, 1881, the mother of the following: Elizabeth, deceased wife of Alonzo B. James; Belle, wife of J. B. McDaniel, of Shelbyville, Indiana ; Clara, now ^Irs. Thomas A. Swain, of Indianapolis, Indiana ; Catherine, wife of B. F. Swain, of Shelbyville : and three sons - John E., Harry ^^^ and Thomas G. Beggs.

John E. Beggs, the eldest son of the family, is a native of ]\Ietamora, Franklin county, Indiana, born in 1861. He removed with his parents to Shelbyville, that state, and received his education in its common and high schools. He then learned the distilling business, and for a time was located at Covington, Kentutky, Cincinnati, C)hio, and Chicago, Illinois. In 1886 he came to Terre Haute and became superintendent of the Wabash Distilling Company. He served in a similar capacity with the Majestic Distilling Company and superintended the erection of its plant ; was the general manager of the Indiana Distilling Company and has since served as its president and general manager. He also superintended the building of the latter company's plant, one of the largest and most complete in the country. IMr. Beggs was also for a time a member of the firm of Hulman & Beggs, wholesale liquor dealers of Terre Haute, and is at the present time a director in the Terre Haute Brewing Company.

He was married in November, 1886, to Aliss Catherine Webb, of Slielbyville, Indiana, by whom he has had the following children: Webb E., a student at Racine College, Wisconsin ; Helen R., pursuing a literary course at Kemper Hall, an Episcopal seminary at Kenosha, Wisconsin ; John R., also a pupil at Racine College, and Edward E., attending the Terre Haute high school. Mrs. Beggs died in October. 1898. Although identified with the Elks. Air. Beggs is not generally interested in the fraternities.

Harry W. Beggs was born in Laurel, Indiana, but was reared in Shelby ville, and coming to Terre Haute in 1887 he became associated with the Wabash Lumber Company, was made the buyer for the ]\lajestic Distilling Company, and is a member of the firm of Watson & Beggs, proprietors of the Terre Haute Hotel. He is also president of the \'incennes Distilling Company, and makes his home in that city.

Thomas G. Beggs, born at Laurel, attended the public schools and the Lebanon (Ohio) College, and thus received a thorough education. After coming to Terre Haute in 1891, he learned the distilling business under his father's direction, and in time became superintendent of the Indiana Distilling Company. At the organization of the Commercial Distilling Company he was elected its superintendent and treasurer, and has served in those offices to the present. He is a member of the fraternal order of Elks.

Earl S. Niblack, M. D., prominent in the professional circles of Terre Haute, was born in Wheatland, Knox county, Indiana, IMarch 29, 1870, a son of Sanford L. and Susan (Brooks) Niblack. Sanford L., Niblack. a native of DuBois county. Indiana, was left an orphan in his early life and was reared in DuBois and ]\Iartin counties. In 1859 he located in Wheatland, where he has been a general merchant for nearly fifty years. He passed the seventy-first milestone on the journey of life. He was born March 21, 1836, and died March 18, 1908, and his wife is living.

Dr. Earl S. Niblack _(one of his parents' eight living children, four sons and four daughters), attending in his youth the Wheatland schools and the Vincennes University. In the fall of 1891 he became a student in the medical department of the University of Michigan, where he graduated June 27, 1895, and in July following began the practice of his profession in Terre Haute. He is a ipember of the medical staff and a lecturer on anatomy in the training school for nurses of the Union Hospital, and is a member of the County Medical and the State Medical societies, the American Medical Association and the Esculapian Medical Societv of the Wabash \'alley. He affiliates with the ("Vld Eel-

H^ARRY Blouch. a general building contractor, was born near Lebanon, Pennsylvania, May 9, 1874, and was but three years of age when brought to Indiana by his widowed mother and his maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. John H. Blouch, who settled first in Randolph county, Indiana, and in 1885 came to Vigo county, establishing their home at Youngstown.

Harry Blouch has therefore been a resident of Vigo county from the age of eleven years. His early education was continued in the schools of this county and after putting aside his text-books he learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed as an employe for several years. Seeking a broader field of opportunity he came to Terre Haute in 1902 and began contracting. He had a capital of less than one hundred dollars in the beginning but he trusted to his work to be his advertisement, knowing that thoroughness and fidelity must eventually win recognition. During the past four years he has done an extensive business, erecting two hundred and thirty houses in Terre Haute and thus contributing in a large measure to its substantial improvement and adornment. It should be the pride of every business not merely to increase in income, but also to improve in character, personnel and service, and so approach an ideal business standard. Mr. Blouch has worked along such lines. He has employed high grade mechanics, paying them their legitimate share of the profits which their talents have brought to the business, and in his relations with the public and with other business men ]\Ir. Blouch has ever maintained a course above suspicion. He has not only built for others but has done some speculative building in erecting houses upon lots of his own and then selling them. His course has ever been creditable and his prosperity is well deserved. He started out in life emptv-handed. yet imbued with laudable ambition, and as the years have gone by he has established an enviable reputation as one of the prominent representatives of building interests in Terre Haute.

Mr. Blouch married July i, 1907, Mary C. Fowler. She is a native of Indiana and a daughter of John and Martha J. Fowler. Fraternally Mr. Blouch is a member of Camp No. 3376, Modern Woodmen.

George H. Dickerson, who is engaged in business as a dealer in lumber and ties, with headquarters at Terre Haute, while operating mills in Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky, has gained that measure of success which has resuhed not from advantageous circumstances or favorable influence, but from intense and well directed activity. His life has been characterized by determined purpose and laudable endeavor.

A native of Macon county, ^lissouri, ]\Ir. Dickerson was born August 15. 1868, a son of George \V. Dickerson, who was a scout for Gen. Samuel Curtis and General Sully, of the Army of the Southwest. He died in Indiana from wounds received in the army, during the early boyhood of his son George, and the death of the mother, Mrs. Susan (Mayfield) Dickerson, who died a few months previous, left the boy an orphan at the age of nine years. He pursued his education in the schools of Washington, Indiana, and in 1884 came to Terre Haute, where he has since resided. His start in life was humble, for he began providing for his own support after his mother's death by driving a mule used in hauling the carts i'n a coal mine at ^^"ashington. Upon his young shoulders devolved heavy burdens. He became the main support of his brother and sisters and brought them with him to Terre Haute when he began work here in the \'andalia Railroad shops. He was thus employed for some time but eagerly awaited the opportunities for advancement. For several years he worked in a rolling mill and gradually, as his skill and efficiency increased and brought him substantial return for his labors, he was able to save the capital that permitted his embarkation in business on his own account. He began dealing in lumber and ties and has since carried on this undertaking, having mills in Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky. He gives close supervision to his interests and his diligence and keen discernment find tangible proof in the success which is now meeting his efl^orts.

On the 31st of January, 1901, Mr. Dickerson was married to Miss Annie Griffith. His younger brother and sisters, coming with him to Terre Haute, lived with him until he was married. He provided not only for their support, but also for their education and as far as possible did the part of father and mother by them. In his fraternal relations Mr. Dickerson is a Knight of Pythias, while politically he is a Republican, active in the_ party. He has always stood for opposition to misrule in municipal aiTairs, for decency and honesty in politics and manifests the same spirit of devotion to high ideals which is seen in the nation's ruler. His business career is indeed creditable and one which may well serve as a source of inspiration to others, showing what may be accomplished when a young man has the will to dare and to do.

John Ellis Budd, city passenger and ticket agent for the Chicago & Eastern Illinois and the Evansville & Terre Haute Railroad companies, which position he has filled since the ist of April, 1905, was prior to that time chief clerk to J. R. Connelly, general agent of the road. He had previously had experience in railroad lines with different roads, beginning his railroad career in 1888 in the employ of the Evans ville & Terre Haute Company as telegraph operator.

Air. Budd was born upon a farm near Youngstown, \'igo county, Indiana, on the 12th of March, 1867, his parents being William A. and Missouri Emily (Jones) Budd. The father was born in Butler county, Kentucky, whence he removed to Vigo county, Indiana, with his parents when a young man, the family home being established there upon the frontier. It was in that county that William A. Budd and Missouri Eniil\- Jones were married, and they spent their 'married life of fifty-two years in Vigo county, where Mrs. Budd was born and reared, her father being Jesse Jones, one of the earliest -'settlers of that locality. William A. Budd devoted his life to farming,- and through a long period was a well known and respected representative of agricultural interests in his part of the state.

John Ellis Budd, the youngest in. a failaily of ten children, was reared upon the home farm to the age of fifteen years, and acquired a common school education. When not bu?-y with his text-books his time and energies were largely devoted to the tilting of the soil, but thinking that he would find other occupation more congenial he left home and took up the study of telegraphy. When twenty years of age he became a regular employe of the Evansville & Terre Haute .Railroad Company, and step bv step has worked his way upward in the railroad service until he today occupies a remunerative position of considerable importance and responsibilitv, his promotion coming as a recognition of his fidelity and business worth.

In i8c)5 Mr. Budd was united in marriage to Miss Delia Tibbets, of Brazil, Indiana, and their family consists of two sons, Homer E. and Ralph W., both students.

He is a Royal Arch Mason, and from the age of twenty-one years has been a member of the Knights of Pythias, passing through all the chairs in the latter order. He is also connected with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and is ever loyal to the beneficent spirit of these orders. He is likewise a member and director of the Young Business Men's Club, and is a member of the Central Christian church. He looks at life from no narrow or contracted view, but is an interested student of those questions of the day which indicate the trend of public thought and action. His friends, and they are many, know him to be a most genial companion, while the patrons of the road with whom his business connections bring him into contact recognize in him one who is always courteous and considerate, w-hile never neglectful of the interests of the companies which he represents.

Alvix M. Higgixs has long been connected with the profession which has been regarded as the most important in conserving the pubUc welfare and upholding individual rights. .\s a practitioner at the Terre Haute bar he has been accorded a liberal and distinctively representative clientage and before court and jury has demonstrated his power in law by clear, forceful and logical presentation of his cause. A native of Wisconsin, he was born in the city of Superior, November 19, 1866. He is a son of the late Rev. William Rayburn Higgins. of the Presbyterian ministry, who was a native of Logansport, Indiana, and was one of the pioneer ministers of the northwest, and who married Miss Mary Elizabeth Condon, a native of the state of New York and removing westward became a resident of Wisconsin. In 1887 h^ came to Terre Haute and assumed the pastorate of what was then known as the Moffat Street Presbyterian church, now the Washington Avenue church. It )vas practically a mission at that time, but under his direction made substantial growth. The Rev. William R. Higgins was a most earnest, zealous Christian worker, and aside from his pulpit and pastoral labors he gave much of his time and means to charity and work among the poorer classes. Because of failing health he was at length forced to resign from the ministry, and passed away here in 1895.

.A.lvin M. Higgins, passing through consecutive grades in the public schools afterward completed a literary course in Oberlin (Ohio) College. He came to Terre Haute in 1887 and began preparation for the bar in the law office of Stimson & Stimson. On the loth of March, 1888, he was admitted to practice in the Indiana courts and to ths United States Supreme Court in Washington. D. C. in 1899. From the day of his admission to the bar he has practiced in both the state and federal courts, meeting with unusual success and winning a place in the front rank of the profession in Vigo county and this section of the state. In 1890 he was chosen as one of the three members of the \'igo bar to serve as a permanent committee on the examination and admission of attorneys to practice and continuously remained in that position for eighteen years, when in 1908 he resigned. In 1897 he was appointed United States commissioner and filled that office until he resigned in 1908. He is devotedly attached to his profession, is systematic and methodical in habit, discreet in judgment, diligent in research and conscientious in the discharge of every duty. It is the theory of the law that the counsel who practice are to aid the court in administration of justice. In his professional career ]\Ir. Higgins has been careful to convert his practice to a high standard of professional ethics, never seeking to lead the court astray in a matter of the art of law nor would he endeavor to withhold from it a knowledge of any fact appearing in the record. He gives to his client the service of large talent, unwearied industry and broad learning but he never forgets that there are certain things due to the court, to his own self-respect and above all to justice and a righteous administration of the law which neither the zeal of an advocate nor the pleasure of success permits him to disregard.

Air. Higgins is also prominently known in political circles, where he has figured as an influential factor for many years, his opinions carrying weight in the councils of the Republican party not only in the county, but in the state as well. He was president of the Indiana Republican League in 1896 and 1897, has been president of the McKinley Club and in many other ways has been actively prominent along the line of politics. His efificacious labors have also extended to other fields. He is deeply interested in community affairs and has rendered valuable service in promoting matters of civic virtue and civic pride. He has contributed greatly to the growth and advancement of Terre Haute and her institutions and the fact that he endorses any public measure in sure to gain to it a strong following because of his influence and the confidence reposed in his judgment by his fellow townsmen. The Commercial Club, the most important of all Terre Haute's civic organizations and to which, more than any other organization, the city owes its municipal growth and progress in commercial and manufacturing lines, was planned, promoted and practically organized by three gentlem.en, one of whom was Mr. Higgins. Of the club he was a director and one of its most active and valued members for many years. Associated with another of Terre Haute's leading citizens he inaugurated and promoted the plan resulting in the organization of the Fort Harrison Savings Institution in 1896. It is today one of the strongest banking institutions of the city, and Air. Higgins has been connected therewith as its attorney since its organization. Another notable achievement of Mr. Higgins in his relations with civic life was the promotion and organization of the Citizens' Independent Telephone Company, which he accomplished in the face of strong skepticism, opposition and difficulties. He did not believe in the monopoly methods of the Bell Telephone Company and set to work to put into the field a rival concern which would give equally satisfactory service and lower rates, and today the Citizens' Independent Telephone Company is the strongest in the city. Mr. Higgins bought the first franchise for this company, paying for it si.x hundred dollars. He became the first president of the company, later was its counsel for a number of years and is still one of its stockholders. There are but a few of the tangible evidences which can be given of the fact that Mr. Higgins does not regard citizenship as an empty word. On the contrary, he has labored as few men have done for the welfare and upbuilding of Terre Haute's interests and as a friend expressed it. "he has at all times made good," thus leaving the impress of a strong individuality and upright character upon the city's history. At all times and in every way possible he has stood for loyalty, patriotism, promotion, enterprise and public spirit, and his determination to leave the city for a broader field of activity and endeavor, as offered by New York city, was received with a feeling of universal regret here. No other inan in Terre Haute in recent years has done more for its interests and the community will benefit for years to come by the result of his labors. The Commercial Club, the Fort Flarrison Savings Institution and the Citizens' Independent Telephone Company, all brought into existence in a greater or less measure through the efforts of Mr. Higgins, will continue to live and grow and benefit the city long after the present generation has passed away. .

In a business way Mr. Higgins demonstrated his ability and at the same time gave proof of his versatility by the management of the affairs of the Terre Haute Buggy & Carriage Company, of which he was appointed trustee in 1896. This company, controlling one of the largest enterprises of the kind in the middle west, was managed by Mr. Higgins from the time of his appointment in 1896, until its sale in 1908, and its affairs were controlled with consummate zeal and ability, giving entire satisfaction to all concerned.

In 1899 ]Mr. Higgins was married to Miss Margaret Beatrice Keating, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward W. Keating, of Terre Haute. In 1908 he carried out his plan of becoming a member of the New York bar, with which he is now associated, while he and his wife are pleasantly located in the beautiful and artistic suburb of Montclair. New Jersey. He still belongs to the Young Business Men's Club of Terre Haute, to the Columbia Club of Indianapolis, and to the Order of Elks. He leaves behind him many strong admirers and warm friends in Terre Haute, but though he has severed his connection therewith, he has left his impress upon the community for good, for all time.

RiCH.XRD L. .\xn Vi'iLLi.\M Alder constitute the firm of R. L. Alder & Brother, decorators, painters and dealers in wall paper. Their business was established in 1875, and is the oldest in this line in Terre Haute. From the beginning it has also maintained leadership in this field of industrial and commercial activity, and for a third of a century the house has enjoyed an extensive patronage and an unassailable reputation.

The brothers are both natives of Oxford, England, Richard L. Alder having been born September 20. 1840, while William .\lder was born June 17, 1849. Both acquired common school educations, and in his boyhood Richard L. .A.Ider was a companion and friend of Robert Buckle, who came to America and settled in Terre Haute. As the years passed he became a prosperous and prominent contractor, after which he returned to England, gaining distinction in politics and has been knighted, being now Sir Robert Buckle. It was 'he who influenced Richard L. Alder to come to the United States in 1871, and in 1873 William Alder joined his brother. They were both associated in business with Mr. Buckle for some time, or until the latter returned to Europe. Their present business, established in 1875, has constantly grown in volume and importance, and they have always been recognized as leaders in the business of decorating, painting and papering. Many of the finest homes in Terre Haute have been decorated by them, and their work is ahvavs harmonious in coloring and artistic in style. They carry a large line of wall papers and decorators' and painter' supplies, and their business both in the mercantile and in the contracting departments has reached a large figure.

Ere leaving his native country Richard L. Alder was married in England to Miss Emily Oborne. a native of that country, who passed away at a recent date. William Alder was a single man when he came to the United States, but afterward returned to England and wedded Miss Caroline Hicks, of Abington, that country, and brought his bride to the new world.

Both brothers are Master Masons, while Richard L. .Vldcr is a member of the Independent order of Odd Fellows and William Alder of the Knights of Pythias fraternity. Both hold membership in the First Baptist church, in which Richard L. Alder has taken a very active part. He is a fine vocalist, and has been a factor in the musical circles of the city. The years have marked their progress as they have gradually worked their way upward from an obscure place in the business world to one of prominence and affluence in commercial circles in Terre Haute.

WiLLi.\M O. H.-\YTHORN, Secretary of the Reese-Snidcr Lumber Company, has in his business career demonstrated the fact that success is not a matter of genius as held by many, but the outcome of clear judgment, experience and unwearied industry. It is these qualities which have enabled him to rise from a comparatively humble position in commercial circles to one of considerable local prominence, where as a factor in the lumber trade he is controlling a gratifying and prosperous business. He was born in Dayton, Kentucky, August 3, 1850, his parents being Edward and Ann (Neblett) Haythorn. The father was born at Lebanon, Ohio, March 10, 1815, and his father was born on the Atlantic ocean in transit to America. The mother was a native of Virginia. Leaving the east they removed to Richmond, Indiana, in 1854, and spent their remaining days in tliat city. It was in Richmond that WiUiam O. Haythorn was reared, and in the public schools he acquired his education, pursuing his studies to the age of sixteen years, when he started oat in lite on his own account. He wjs engaged in the grocery business for several years at Richmond. Indiana, as successor to his father, but later removed to Cairo, Illinois, where he became bookkeeper for a shoe house, remaining in this service for five years. He afterward went to Louisville, Kentucky, where he carried "on business as a dealer in picture frames and moulding, and also while living there went upon the road as a traveling salesman. The year 1885 witnessed his arrival in Terra Haute, where he accepted a position with the Reese-Snider Lumber Company, carefully mastering every duty which was assigned him and winning gradually promotion in recognition of his capable service. Eventually he became interested in the business as a stockholder and in 1805 was chosen secretary, which position he is now filling. In this capacity he has much to do with the executive control and administration of the affairs of the house, and his management is so characterized by keen discernment and intelligent, well directed effort that splendid success is resulting.

In 1878 Mr. Haythorn was married to Aliss Emma L.. Reese, a daughter of the late Samuel T. Reese, and they have one child. Dr. Samuel Reese Haythorn. who is now a physician in charge of the laboratory department of the ^Massachusetts State Hospital, at Tewksbury, Massachusetts. j\lr. and ^Irs. Haythorn are well known socially in Terre Haute, where their circle of friends is as extensive as the circle of their acquaintance. In matters of citizenship his influence and aid are always given on the side of right, progress and improvement, and have constituted a resultant factor in promoting public progress.

Sajiuel T. Reese. - Among the worthy citizens of Terre Haute to whom much credit is due for the upbuilding of the city, perhaps but few- if any deserve more commendation and extended mention in its history than the late Samuel T. Reese, who was widely and favorably known and commanded the respect and confidence of all by reason of a life that was actuated by honorable principles and characterized by straightforward dealing. He was for many years one of the most energetic and successful business men of Terre Haute, and his memory is yet enshrined in the hearts of hundreds whose good fortune it was to know him and to come into close personal and social touch with him.

A native of Indiana, Mr. Reese was born in Sugar Creek township, Vigo county, February 22, 1824, and his life record covered the intervening span of years to the 28th of January, 1908, wdien he was called to his final rest. He had ahiiost completed his eighty-third year, and his life was fraught with earnest toil, crowned with most honorable success. His father, John M. Reese, was a native of ^Maryland, and as early as 1822 settled in Sugar Creek township. \'igo county, thus becoming one of the pioneers of the state which had been admitted to the Union only five years before. PJe followed the occupation of farming, and also carried on business as a carpenter and joiner.

Reared upon the home farm amid the wild scenes and environments of frontier life Mr. Reese in early youth learned the valuable lessons which constitute a part of the experiences of the frontiersman. In the community where danger lurked on every hand because of Indian treachery the pioneer must needs be cautious, and in a community where the individual must largely depend upon his own efforts, for all kinds of labor and supplies were hard to obtain owing to the remoteness from cities, he must naturally cultivate carefulness, industry and perseverance. These qualities all became strong characteristics in the life of Air. Reese and proved an excellent foundation upon which to build success in later years. He obtained only a fair, common school education, but throughout his entire life he was a close observer, and as a result of his keen observation and retentive memory he became a well informed man. In business he manifested a sound, practical experience and judgment that is seldom if ever at fault, and his opinions concerning business situations were always listened to with attention by those who knew aught of his career. Under the direction of his father he learned the carpenter's trade, and in early manhood became a resident of Terre Haute, establishing his home in the city in 1849. He first carried on business here on the site of the Wiley high school, where he opened a carpenter shop. He soon gave practical demonstration of his skill at the builder's art and became one of the most successful contractors of the city, erecting many prominent buildings, including the first normal school building, which was destroyed by fire in 1897, the present Young Men's Christian Association building, the present residence of W. R. AIcKeen and other notable structures. In 1872 Mr. Reese formed a partnership with Gerald Eshman in the lumber business at North Seventh street and the Vandalia Railroad, thus extending the scope of his activity. The firm had a continuous existence for fourteen years, being dissolved only on the removal of Mr. Eshman to California. The firm then became Reese, Snider & Company, which later was incorporated as the Reese-Snider Lumber Company, with Mr. Reese as president, a position which he continued to fill up to the time of his death. In all of his business career he looked beyond exigencies of the moment to the possibilities and opportunities of the future, and worked toward high ideals, prompted by

In 1850 was celebrated the marriage of .Mr. Reese and Miss Masania Hearn, who died in 1901. There were two children of this marriage, but the son died in 1883. The daughter. Emma L.. is now the wife of U'illiam O. Haythorn. secretary of the Reese-Snider Lumber Company.

Mr. Reese was a member of the Centenary Alethodist Episcopal church from its organization, and when the new church edifice was erected a few years ago he gave most generously toward the building fund, donating eight thousand dollars besides putting in a beautiful memorial window in honor of his wife. He was a loyal advocate of and a staunch friend to the Young Men's Christian Association, of Terre Haute, and other business organizations found him a friend and benefactor. The Christian .\ssociation building at the northeast corner of Seventh and (jhio streets was his gift to the association in 1898, at which time the building was valued at twenty-five thousand dollars. .Although most generous in the aid which he bestowed upon these organizations having for their object the uplifting of mankind and the promotion of moral progress, he was modest and retiring in manner and gave without any attempt at ostentation or display. There are doubtless hundreds of good deeds to his credit which have been known only to himself and the recipient of his charity or assistance. Few men have realized so fully the responsibility and obligation of wealth. Mr. Reese however, felt that he was but the steward of all that came to him as the reward of his splendid business ability, his executive force and untiring industry, and the most envious could not grudge him his success, so honorable was it won and so worthily used. His life may indeed serve as an example of emtilation and for inspiration. He never incurred obligations that he did not meet, but was the soul of honor as well as integrity in business affairs, and proved in his life that success and an untarnished name may be won simultaneously. He eagerly availed himself of opportunities for doing good to his fellow men, and he left behind a memory which will long be cherished in the community which knew and honored him,

E. E. St.\rr. - Laudable ambition and strong determination have been elements in the success which has attended E. E. Starr since he started out upon his business career. Gradually working his way upward, he is now occupying a responsible position as manager of the United States scale factory, in Terre Haute. He was born in Madison, Wisconsin, .A.pril 10, 1850, the son of Andrew and Lucretia (Slogg>') Starr, but was practicallv reared in Iowa, where his father followed the occupation of farming and later as hotel keeper. The mother was a native of New- castle, Pennsylvania, of German ancestry, and the father was born in Danburv, Connecticut, and there learned the hatter's trade. He was one of the pioneers of Wisconsin. In his early life E. E. Starr was connected with railroad interests, but subsequently engaged in the sale of hardware and farm machinery at Grundy Center and Reinbeck, Iowa, and afterward became a traveling salesman, representing Fairbanks. Morse & Company, of Chicago. His success in that field of labor led to his appointment to the position of city salesman for the company in St. Louis, in which capacity he served for six or seven years, and later represented the company at Denver, Colorado, for two years, coming thence to Terre Haute in the interest of N. T. Fairbanks & Company. Here he acted as manager, having filled the position since that time.

The United States scale factory was established in 1875 by S. J. Austin, who was the original inventor of the, scale and its builder. He afterward sold out, the ownership passing into other hands, while Mr. Austin remained as superintendent of the factory for some time. In 1906 the business passed into the hands of E. & T. Fairbanks Company, with Mr. Starr as manager. His previous experience well qualified him for the responsible duties which devolved upon him in this connection. He is a man of well balanced capacities and powers, capable of mature judgment of his own capacities, of people and of circumstances. He is eminently a man of business sense, never lacking in that kind of enterprise which leads to successful accomplishment. Starting out in life without anv vaulting ambitions to accomplish something especially great or famous, he has followed the lead of his opportunities, doing as best he could anything that came to hand, seizing legitimate advantages as they arose and thus gradually progressing until he is recognized as one of Terre Haute's prominent business men in his representation of an important industrial concern of the city. He was first married April II, 1879, , to Luella Mohler, a native of Decatur county. Iowa. She died leaving three children, Leona ]\I., Lela F. and Martin H. He was married August 11, 1890, to Mary L. Dodge. She was born in Mitchell county, Iowa, a daughter of H. Clay and Lerinda Dodge. Two children have been born of this marriage, Elsie L. and Merle E.

Judge John E. Cox, serving on the superior court, bench, of Vigo county, and recognized as one of the prominent lawyers and honored citizens of Terre Haute, was born on the old farm homestead in Nevins township, Vigo county, December 27, 1865. His parents were James and Mary (Engle) Cox. The father was born near Bridgeton, Parke county, Indiana, October 8, 1837, and was a son of Lawrence and Nancy (Kelley) Cox, the former a native of Conntv Cork, Ireland, born October is. 1800.

Greater Terre Haute And A'Igo Couxty

while the latter was born in IncHana, October 30, 1807. Eawrence Cox came alone to the United States in 1818, thinking to have better business opportunities and advantages in the new world. From the east, probably Pennsylvania, he made his way to Parke county, Indiana, at an early period in the development of this state. There he entered land and improved a farm, carrying on general agricultural pursuits until his death, which occurred November 8, 1867. He had for a number of years survived his wife, who died December 8, 1853.

His son, James. Cox, born and reared in Parke county, took up the occupation, of farming as a life work and continued to till the soil in his native county until i8C)0. He then removed to Nevins township, \'igo county, where he resumed agricultural pursuits and is yet identified with farming interests although he now resides in Terre Haute, where he has made his home since 187 1. For a time he was engaged in the clothing business in this city. He was a prominent man in \'igo county, and for years was a recognized leader in the ranks of Democrac}'. His fellow townsmen recognizing his worth and ability and patriotic devotion to the best interests of the community, elected him treasurer of the county in 1885, and he thus served until 1889. He has served, both by appointment and election, as a member of the board of county commissioners for several terms and his official duties liave ever been discharged with a promptness and fidelity that have won for him unqualified respect and endorsement. He wedded Miss Mary Engle, wdio was born in Nevins township, this county, September 15, 1837, and passed away November 16, 1904.

Educated in the public schools of Terre Haute, Judge Cox passed through consecutive grades until he was graduated from the high school in 1886. He then entered upon a course in DePauw University, which he completed by graduation in 1889. In the same year he took up the study of law in the office of I. N. Pierce, an attorney of Terre Haute, and in 1889 was admitted to the bar. He had also read law in the office of Smiley & Neff, of Greencastle, Indiana, while a student at DePauw. He practiced alone until 1892, when he formed a partnership with ( )ra D. Davis, which -relation was terminated wdien !Mr. Cox assumed the duties of judge of the superior court on the ist of January. 1907, having been elected to the office in the preceding November. On the bench he has proved himself an able jurist, whose decisions are impartial and whose ideals of judicial service are high.

Judge Cox was married in 1893 to Miss Lena M. Frisz, a daughter of Joseph Frisz, of Terre Haute. He has been a member of the Indiana state bar for years and is a member of several fraternities and other organizations, and in the city where almost his entire life has been passed,

Will E. Hendrich, Jr. - Among the energetic, far-sighted and successful business men of Terre Haute is numbered Will E. Hendrich, Jr.. the president of the Terre Haute Abstract Company. His life record began in New Albany, Floyd county, Indiana, on the 14th of May, 1871, his parents being Charles G. and Anna (Heins) Hendrich. The father was born in Germany, in 1842, and when six years of age came with his parents to the United States, the family settling at New Albanx-, where for many years the grandfather, Ernst Hendrich, was engaged in the shoe business. The mother of pur subject was born in New Albany and died when her son was but six years of age. For many years the father engaged in the manufacture of shoes and cigars at New Albany, where he still resides but is now retired from active life. He served as a member of the city council and has been prominent in community affairs, giving loyal support to many measures which are of pnljlic value.

Will E. Hendrich, Jr. was reared in the place of his nativity and at the usual age entered the public schools, passing through consecutive grades until he graduated from the high school of New Albany in 1888. He at once sought the broader opportunities of the city and in June following his graduation came to Terre Haute, where he entered the office of George W. Wade, abstracter, with whom he learned the business, soon becoming an expert in that line. In 1892 he entered the office of W. E. Hendrich, and in the year 1902, the Hendrich .'Vbstract Company was formed, he. becoming vice president and treasurer. This association was maintained until March, 1906, when he organized the Terre Haute .\bstract Company, of which he is president. This company is a most prominent one, with an extensive patronage and has a most perfect system of working of abstracts.

Pleasantly situated in his home life, Mr. Hendrich was married to Aliss JMary Loretta Theobald, a daughter of John Theobald, of this city. Unto them have been born two children, Robert T. and" Jane. 'Sir. Hendrich is prominent in fraternal circles, being a past master of Euclid Lodge, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, and past illustrious master of Terre Haute Council, No. 8, Royal and Select Masters. He is likewise a past exalted ruler of Terre Haute Lodge, No. 86, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. His political allegiance was given to the Reptiblican party. He is president of the sinking fund commission of the city of Terre Haute.

Greater Terre Haute Axd Vigo Coun'Ty

connected with the wholesale dry goods business as a travelino- rc[)resentative. A native of Sullivan county, Indiana, he was born in the town of Farmersburg, January 19, 1855, and is a son of Eliphalet and Sarah C. .(All) Hunter, both of whom are natives of Bardstown, Kentucky. The paternal grandfather was Samuel C. Hunter, one of the pioneer residents of Prairie Creek township. \'igo county, who came to this state from Kentucky during an early epoch in the history of this section. Eliphalet Hunter followed both farming and merchandising and his business career was marked by orderly progression and successful accomplishment. In 1 87 1 he removed to Terre Haute, where he engaged in the teaming and transfer business for a number of years. His remaining davs were spent in the city and in December, 1896, he passed from this life at the age of seventy-three years, having for more than a year survived his wife, who died in 1895. at the age of seventy-two. Their children were nine in number. Elizabeth, the eldest, is the widow of Francis M. Hopewell, a resident of Terre Haute. Benjamin F., James T., and William L. are all now deceased. Samuel W. is a resident of Fort Valley, Georgia, where he engaged in the lumber and milling business. Charles R. is the ne.xt of the family. Sarah C. is the deceased wife of John C. Lawler. of Terre Haute. Martin W. is now manager for the Terre Haute Brewing Company stables and superintends the buying and selling of horses for that company. Nancy M. is the widow of the late Elijah W. Lloyd, of Vigo county.

Charles R. Hunter spent his boyhood days in Farmersburg and supplemented his early education by study in Ascension Seminary, at Farmersburg, under the tutelage of Capt. W. T. Crawford, the founder of that old-time institution of learning. He was eighteen years of age when he came with his parents to Terre Haute, and his initial duties in the business world were those of driver for J. C. Kelley. Subsequently he engaged with a firm of Jones & Jones, agricultural implement dealers, and subsequently spent a year in the service of the Star Union Transfer Company under the agenc\- of E. R. Bryant. The succeeding year was spent with ]kIcKeen Brothers, proprietors of a flour mill at Tenth and Wabash streets, and later he entered the house of H. Robinson & Company, wholesale dry goods dealers at No. 602-4 Wabash avenue. He acted as salesman in the house and afterward went upon the road. He had made frequent changes in his business connections and each change indicated a step in advance. Starting out in life without any vaulting ambitions to accomplish something especially great or famous, he followed the lead of his opportunities, doing as best he could anything that came to him and seizing legitimate advantages as they rose. He has never hesitated to take a forward step when the way was open and thus he has gone from one position to another, each one bringing him a broader outlook and wider opportunities. Leaving the wholesale house of H. Robinson & Company he became traveling salesman for the firm of Hoburg. Root & Company, wholesale dealers in dry goods, at Sixth and Cherry streets, and subsequently represented on the road, the Havens & Geddes Company, wholesale dry goods merchants at North Fifth and Cherry streets. For the past seven years he has been a representative for Efroymson & Wolf, wholesale dealers in dry goods and notions in Indianapolis, handling the trade of Terra Haute and other cities with a permanent sample room at No. lOO South Sixth street. He has become well known on the road and in mercantile circles and to an unusual degree commands the respect and confidence of those with whom he is asso-. ciated.

Mr. Hunter is a charter member of Post G, of the Indiana Division of the Travelers' Protective Association, and at one time was vice president of the state organization. He is also a member of the United Commercial Travelers, Council No. 128, of Terre Haute, and he belongs to the Terre Haute Commercial Club.

Mr. Hunter has been married twice. He first wedded Miss 2\Iary S. Hagerdon, a daughter of Henry Hagerdon, a pioneer citizen of Terre Haute. Her death occurred five years later and the only child of that marriage was a "daughter, Gertrude May, who died at the age of five months. Mr. Hunter has since wedded Miss Grace E. King, a daughter of Robert C. and Rebecca J. King, of this city. They are both well known here and their home is attractive by reason of its warm hearted hospitalitv. In politics Mr. Hunter is a Republican, having supported the party since casting his first presidential vote for U. S. Grant, in 1872. He has since taken an active part in the work at the primaries and throughout the campaigns and although he has never asked for office nor desired official preferment he yet holds an important place in all the party councils. He belongs to that class who wield a power which is all the more potent from the fact that it is moral rather than political and is exercised for the public weal rather than for personal ends. His rare aptitude and ability in achieving results, however, have made him a valued counselor in planning for the campaigns. Regarded as a citizen and in his social relations he belongs to that public-spirited, useful and helpful type of men whose ambitions and powers are centered and directed in those channels through which flow the greatest and most permanent good to the greatest number. Pleasant and genial in manner, his personal qualities are such as to render him uniformly popular not only in Terre Haute, but throughout the state and wherever he is known.