Whitley County, Indiana - The whole text, 1907 (part 27 of 28)

George Wilson Kelsev

No man is better known in Washington township than the subject of this sketch and none has done more to help in its growth and development. As a farmer, public official and merchant he has come in constant contact with the people and by his courtesy and accommodating wrays he has made friends with everybody. Mr. Kelsey is a son of Aaron and Rebecca (Jeffries) Kelsey, was born in Jefferson township October 20, 1857, and named in honor of the Rev. Wilson Thompson, a minister of the Primitive Baptist church. William Kelsey, his gradfather, came from Rush county, Indiana, and settled in Whitley county in 1851. Aaron, though a native of Rush county, spent nearly all his adult life in Whitley county, engaged in farming. When about fifty-six years old he met with a violent death in Jefferson township as the result of a horse falling upon him. His back was broken and he died in a few hours after suffering excruciating agony. He left four children, George W.. Amos H, Ruth E. and Nancy. George W. received the usual common school education as he grew up on the parental farm and later took a course at the Valparaiso Normal, also attending a while at the old Methodist Episcopal College in Fort Wayne. For ten years after leaving school he was engaged in teaching, chiefly in Whitley county, and then spent two years in farming. At the expiration of that time he went to Huntington, Indiana, where he was engaged for three years in the grocery and restaurant business. Returning to Whitley county, he resumed his old calling as a farmer, but being obliged to give this up, owing to ill health, he established a hardware store at Laud, which afterwards was changed into the grocery business and this he has continued to the present time. For several years Mr. Kelsey held the offices of notary public and justice of the peace in Washington township. He is still an incumbent of the last mentioned office by a recent election on the Democratic ticket, he having always been an adherent of that party.

September 5, 1890, Mr. Kelsey was married to Miss Sabina E., daughter of Joseph Metzler, of Washington township. They have four children, of whom Hazel A., Alice and Oreda are living. Homer, a bright and promising boy, died in the third vear of his age.

Jacob Kichler

Jacob Kichler, the eighth of ten children, was born in Germany March 17, 1847, and was in his seventeenth year when he crossed the ocean to join his two brothers in Indiana. One of these served three years in the Civil war and one lost his life at the time of an explosion on a steamboat on the Red river. In May, 1870, his mother with two daughters and one son followed to America, living three years at Lafayette and thence to Churubusco, where she remained during her lifetime, dying at the age of seventy, and is buried in the Catholic cemetery at Ege, Noble county. Jacob found employment on a farm in Allai county until November, 1864, when he went to Lafayette and learned the baker's trade. During the next two vears he mastered the details. After working as a journeyman in various citieshe finally settled in 1872 at Topeka, Kansas, where he conducted a bakery and grocery for three years. In 1875 he came to- Churubusco, where he has since been conducting a combined bakery and grocery and has come to be regarded as one of the fixed institutions of the place. He has met with success, as he has the German persistency, frugality and other sterling qualities of his nationality. It is almost unnecessary to add that he knows everybody in the town, is liked by all and that he is universally regarded as a valuable citizen. He served one term as a councilman and was a member of the first school board of Churubusco. He is always ready to help public enterprises and has done his full share in pushing forward the development and welfare of his adopted home.

November 1, 1875, Mr. Kichler was married at Rochester, Indiana, to Miss Amelia Angermann, a native of Saxony, who was born in 1849. They have had four children : Daisy, a stenographer in Chicago; Catherine, wife of Otto Shealy; John, who died when about eighteen months old: and George W., an attorney of Churubusco. Mr. Kichler is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, of the Masonic fraternity and the Knights of Pythias.

Otto Shealy. Mr. Kichler's son-in-law, as conductor on the Pennsylvania Railroad, was in charge of the train held up by the car-barn bandits, who shot the brakeman for refusing to cut off a car for them to escape upon. After their capture Shealy was on his return trip and carried the bandits into Chicago. Mrs. Shealv is a srrad-

James B. Grawcock

William and Martha ( Bennett) Grawcock settled in Noble county some years before the Civil war and there spent most of their married lives, though in 1899 they came to Churubusco, where on May 4, 1900, the father succumbed to illness. James B. Grawcock, the eldest of his ten children, was born in Kosciusko county November 5, 1856, and in the common and high schools of Noble county received his education. At twenty-one he came to Churubusco and engaged in the manufacture of brick and tile, to which he devoted the ensuing fifteen years. He then embarked in the retail lumber trade, which he has followed until the present time, handling also lime, cement and -coal. He is widely known as the inventor of a brick and tile kiln which has had extensive sale and use in several states. He installed the electric lighting plant at Churubusco for the lighting company. For seven years Mr. Grawcock has been a member of the Churubusco city council and is truly a "city father," his interest in all that concerns the welfare of the community being sincere and active.

Mr. Grawcock was married in Noble county to Miss Sarah E. Fulk, by whom he had two children, but one of whom, Arthur, survives. The mother died March 8, 1904, and September 29, 1906, Mr. Grawcock married Nettie, daughter of William and Sarah (Clemens) Shirley, also of Noble county. Mrs. Grawcock was a successful teacher before her marriage, having taught nine years in her native count}' and two years in the public schools of Churubusco. She is devoted to church work, as is also her husband and her influence is exerted for the moral and intellectual advancement of the community. Mr. Grawcock is a member of the Masonic fraternity and a Knight of Pythias.

Franklin Stamets

This name has been familiar in Churubusco for thirty-three years, owing to the connection with the town's business affairs of Mr. Stamets. He has achieved high standing in the business world and ranks as a good .citizen, good friend and good neighbor. He also has to his credit an honorable record as a soldier during the war of the Rebellion and, like many other of the esteemed comrades, has shown himself fully as deserving in peace as in war. John Stamets came from Ohio in 1858 and settled in Kosciusko county, where he spent the remainder of his life. By his wife Magdaline he became the father of nine children. Franklin Stamets, the youngest of these, was born in Tuscarawas county. Ohio, March 30, 1845, and hence was thirteen years old when his parents came to Indiana. In the spring of 1862 he became a member of Company K. Thirty-fifth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, with which he marched proudly to the front. His command was attached to the Army of the Tennessee under General Rosecrans, and saw its first great battle at Stone river in the winter of 1862-63. Later on Mr. Stamets fought with his command through the various engagements of the Atlanta campaign and at the battle of Nashville. After the conclusion of hostilities Mr. Stamets returned to Kosciusko county and engaged in the sawmill business, continuing until 1872, when he came to Churubusco, which has proved his permanent residence. He embarked in the lumber business, which he has pursued with various fortunes from that day to this. In July, 1903. he formed a partnership with Charles Frazier for the purpose of conducting a grocery business, and this is still in progress under the name of Stamets & Frazier.

December 24, 1872, Mr. Stamets was married in Kosciusko county to Miss Catherine Drake, a native of that county. They lost two sons and one daughter by death before they reached maturity, but have a surviving daughter named Mabel, who is now the wife of Charles Frazier. Mr. Stamets is a Democrat.

Leonard R. Schrader

Jacob Schrader, founder of the western branch of the family of this name, came from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, to Whitley county during the period succeeding the Civil war, was successful and now inviis a line farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Columbia township, mi which he is living in restful retirement. He married Mary Rumsyre, a native of Whitley county, by win mi lie had three children, Leonard, Lyman ami 1 .1 >ren.

Leonard R. Schrader was born in Columbia township April 10, 1878: After the usual attendance in the common schools he entered Taylor University, where he remained three years. He then went to the State University, working his own way by teaching. He taught six years in Union and Columbia townships and in the Coesse high school. In 1904 he abandoned the school room to accept a deputyship in the county clerk's office under Jesse Glassly, retaining this position two years. Retiring, he became clerk in the Columbia City National Bank, but his service there proved brief, as on January 1, 1907, he resumed public work as deputy under Samuel F. Trembly. The mention of these facts showsthat Mr. Schrader is competent, reliable and popular. He is a member of the Masonic order and senior warden of Columbia City Lodge, No. 189, and is also past chancellor commander of the Pythian Knights. He ispopular with the younger element of the- Republican party, in which he has long been a worker.

December 27, 1905, Mr. Schrader was married at Plymouth, Indiana, to Miss Harriet, daughter of E. S. Bissell and formerly a teacher in the Columbia City schools. Mr. and Airs. Schrader reside in a comfortable home on North Line street. Like his parents, Mr. Schrader is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, while his wife holdscommunion with the Episcopal church.

David N. Hart

of the county, successful in agriculture, prominent in politics and popular in all the social relations, and there was sincere regret when "taps" called the old soldier to rest. The ancestors of this family were Germans who settled in Pennsylvania nearly a century ago. Frederick Hart was born in Somerset county and in early manhood migrated to Wayne county, Ohio. About 1851 the family removed to DeKalb county, Indiana, locating on a wild tract of land and their best efforts were required to improve and change it into a productive farm. Frederick Hart ended his days at the advanced age of eighty-five. His son, David N. Hart, who was born in Wayne county, Ohio, December 20, 1833, came with him to Indiana, remaining on the farm until the outbreak of the Civil war. In 1861 he enlisted in Company F, Forty-fourth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, with which he served three years and four months, or until discharged for disability. Those familiar with the history of the Civil war will recall the "old Forty-fourth" as one of the most gallant in the sendee, and whoever belonged to it necessarily passed through much hard fighting. Mr. Hart was in its hardest battles and was often detailed on important scout duty, especially while in Kentucky. Mr. Hart resumed work on his DeKalb county farm of forty acres, but in October, 1866, removed to Whitley county. He located in Thomcreek township on what is now known as the John Hoffer farm. These sixty acres were sold in 1875 and one hundred and sixty acres purchased a short distance west. Mr. Hart did a great deal of clearing, eventually making this one of the best improved farms in that vicinity. One of his improvements was the erection of a large brick house, one of the best in the township, the material for which he made on the farm. Starting in debt $5,000, at the end of seventeen years Mr. Hart had paid this, increased his land holdings to two hundred and five acres and was easily worth $10,000. In 1868 he was commissioned justice of the peace by Governor Baker, war, twice re-elected and served in this office fourteen consecutive years. As Thorncreek township was normally Democratic, his popularity is shown by his being the only Republican elected at those elections. He was nominated for sheriff, but the county's adverse political majority was too great to overcome. He was fond of politics and often attended and presided at Republican conventions. He was an inveterate reader, a close student of public questions and unusually well informed. He was especially proud of his military service and enjoyed meeting his old comrades and recounting experiences of soldier life. He was repeatedly elected commander of the George W. Stough Post, Grand Army of the Republic, and frequently attended national encampments. A member of the Baptist church from early life, he was a man of strict morals and high notions in all the transactions between man and man. He was a good off-hand speaker, ready in debate and had the general equipment that would have made him a distinct figure in an}' of the professions. In 1902 Mr. Hart purchased a home on Market street. Columbia City, and lived in retirement until his death, December 8, 1906.

William Kimmont, was an educated Scotchman, who devoted most of his life to teaching and gained eminence as an educator. For many years he was in the schools at Cincinnati and there his daughter obtained her education, she also becoming a teacher. She died at the Columbia City home February <). 1904. There were eight children in the family besides the third son, who died in infancy. Owen T. is a real estate dealer at McHenry, North Dakota ; Emerson C. is a commercial salesman for a wholesale drug house at Rock Island, Illinois ; Anna married Wesley Allen and resides in Columbia City; Nellie, wife of William Doyle, is a resident of Monticello, Indiana ; Joseph Kimmont Hart has gained prominence as a successful teacher. He taught in the high schools at Ottumwa, Iowa, and Rock Island, Illinois, and at present is an assistant teacher of history in the University of Chicago and is identified with the university extension course. He served in the Spanish-American war. making a creditable record. Bruce D. Hart, M. D., of Churubusco, is mentioned elsewhere. Ruth married Charles Miller and is a resident of Columbia City. An adopted member of the family is Miss Batha. daughter of William Hart and Elizabetb Kimmont, he a brother of David Hart and she a sister of Mrs. Hart. -Having lost her mother by death when three weeks old, Miss Batha was brought from Nebraska as an infant in arms by her uncle David. She has been the housekeeper for some years and watched over her uncle and aunt with tender care during their last days.

years old and then entered Franklin (Indiana) College, where he spent two years in the academic department. It was his intention to take the theological course, but ill health prevented and he engaged in missionary work. He preached two years at Auburn, five in Oswego and one year at Decatur, Indiana. His health needing recuperation, he retired to his father's farm, remained there two years and then located at Columbia City, where he traveled as a commercial salesman for five years and is now in the real estate business, promoting the sale of North Dakota lands. He was appointed by his father executor of his estate. December 29, 1890, Mr. Hart married Miss Julia, daughter of John and Anna (Born) Cotterly. a substantial and highly respected family of Thorncreek township. Mr. and Mrs. Hart have three children, Marguerite, Donald Kimmont and Robert Bruce.

James Washburn

was born in the first courthouse in Columbia City September 12, 1843, and is the son of Thomas and Sarah (Cary) Washburn. The father was born in Parkersburg, West Virginia, in 1805, and the mother in Salem, Ohio, in 1806, and was the daughter of John Cary. Their marriage occurred in Ohio, February 10, 1825, where they remained until 1842, when they came to Columbia City, remaining there till the close of their lives. He was a carpenter and surveyor for a number of years and then became a merchant in the city, attaining considerable success and accumulating- a larae amount of valuable property. He served in "the state legislature as a Democrat in 1874. During his long and eventful life he enjoyed the confidence of a large circle of social and business acquaintances. He and his wife are now dead. Ten children were born to them : Nancy, deceased in infancy ; Mary Ann, deceased wife of Warren Mason; Eliza Jane, widow of Samuel Keefer; John, a merchant for several years, but now deceased ; Calvin, a soldier in the Civil war, now living in San Francisco ; Charles and Silas died in infancy ; Alanson, formerly a merchant and soldier, died in Pittsburg; Cyrus, deceased, and James. James entered his father's store as a clerk in early manhood, remaining for several years. In 1872 Tie engaged in the mercantile business for himself, which he conducted nineteen years, selling finally to Henry Giles. He then engaged in the real-estate business, which continues to receive his undivided attention. In 1 86 1, while employed in the newspaper business by A. Y. Hooper, he and three others of the same occupation enlisted in Company F, Twelfth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served one year, when he reenlisted in Company I, One Hundred and Fifty-second Regiment, and continued until the close of the war. November 12, 1867, he was married to Maryette, daughter of Daniel and Lucinda J. (North) Mitchell. who was born July 5, 1850. Her parents came to Indiana about 1863 and located on a farm where the mother died in 1905, but the father is still living in the enjoyment of good health and many friends. Mr. Wash- "burn owns a large part of the property on the east side of the court house square and is reckoned among the most substantial citizens. He was a charter member of George W. Stough Post, Grand Army of the Republic. John L., an only son, married Ada Gougwer and resides in Columbia City, having also a son, James R. Mr. Washburn is a lifelong Democrat, taking an active part in local matters, and in 1896 was a delegate to the convention that nominated Bryan for the presidency.

Philemon H. Clugston

A leading member of the Columbia City bar and an honorable representative of two of Whitley county's old and highly esteemed families, was born May 8, 1864. being the oldest son in a family of six children, whose parents were David B. and Margaret (Mc- Lallen) Clugston, the former a native of New Jersey, the latter of the state of New York. The McLallens settled in Whitley county as early as 1844 and have been prominent in its business and public affairs ever since, the father's family arriving in this part of the state in 1857 an(l taking an active and influential interest in the development and progress of the county from that year to the present time. David B. Clugston, son of Asher and Catherine ( Rittenhouse) Clugston, was of Scotch-Irish descent. When two years old he was taken by his parents to the state of Delawaix. where he lived' until his maturity, and in the year indicated came to Indiana, settling at Larwill, Whitley county, where in 1858 he become associated with E. L. McLallen in the dry goods business, the firm thus constituted winning immediate success and es- tablishing an honorable reputation among the leading mercantile houses in the northern part of the state. After the retirement of Mr. McLallen in 1873 Mr. Clugston continued the business and later associated himself with his brother, Asher R. Clugston and others in establishing a large store in Columbia City, which soon became the leading enterprise of the kind in Whitley county, and still later he engaged in various other interests, notable among which was the Harper Buggy Company, a large manufacturing concern that has done much to advance the material prosperity of the community. P. H. Clugston grew to manhood in his native county of Whitley and is today justly considered one of its most enterprising and energetic sons. He received his elementary education in the public schools, later took a course in the Indiana State University and then embarked upon a business career in Columbia City. After two years' experience in business he gave it up for the purpose of preparing himself for the legal profession. After the requisite preliminary study he was admitted to the bar in 1887, becoming a member of the long established and successful firm of Marshall & Mc- Nagny, with whom he continued in active practice until 1889, the meantime rapidly forging to the front in his profession and earning an honorable reputation not only as an able and successful lawyer, but as one ever loyal to the interests of his clients and eminently trustworthy in the transactions of all business placed at bis disposal. In 1889 Mr. Clugston was elected mayor of Columbia City and with such fidelity did he discharge his official functions that he was chosen his own successor in the spring of

[892, but in August of the following yearhe resigned his position to resume the practice of his profession, becoming also associated with Messrs. Marshall & McNagny in establishing the widely known and reliable firm of Marshall, McNagny & Clugston, which has since become one of the leading law partnerships in northeastern Indiana. As a lawyer Mr. Clugston ranks among the leading members of the Whitley county bar. and compares favorably with his peers in. legal learning. He possesses the ability and merit that win success and from the beginning his career has been eminently satisfactory, not only professionally but financially. An active mind, keen perception, combined" with a knowledge of the principles of law, enable him easily to grasp the main points at issue, while his untiring industry, supplemented by strong common sense, havefitted him for the branch of work to which he has given most attention. As the city'schief executive Mr. Clugston's record was creditable to himself and satisfactory to the people. His qualifications to discharge with ability the duties of such a trust being unquestioned, while his fidelity to the public welfare and the uniform courtesy that characterized his official conduct were factors of no little import in a record that compared favorably with that of the ablest of his predecessors or successors in the office. Mr. Clugston is a Democrat in politics and a strong advocate of the principles of his party and a persevering worker for its success at all times. He has rendered valuable servicein a number of campaigns. He is a member in high standing of the Masonic fraternity, having risen to the thirty-second degree and in all the subordinate bodies of the order to- which he belongs his activity and influence have contributed greatly to their efficiency and advancement. He is now serving as grand high priest of the grand chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Indiana.

In 1891 Mr. Clugston was united- in marriage with Miss Emma R. Thatcher, the union being blessed with two children, a daughter, Katherine, and a son by the name of Phil. Mr. and Mrs. Clugston are esteemed members of the Presbyterian church in Columbia City, active in the discharge of their duties as Christians and ready at all times to do what they can. They are also liberal contributors to the material support of the congregation with which identified and for a number of years Mr. Clugston has held the important office of elder in the same.

George H. Fosler

George H. Fosler, representative agriculturist and stockman and for a number of years actively identified with the development and progress of Whitley county, is a native of Indiana and the fourth of eight children, whose parents were George and Catherine (Heagy) Fosler, both born in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, where they married in 1835. George Fosler was a farmer and stock raiser. In 1838 they removed to Dayton, Ohio, and after spending about three years in that city changed residence to Wayne county, Indiana, where they continued to reside until 1863'. when they settled in Cleveland' township. Mr. Fosler purchased land, developed a fine farm and in due time became one of the successful agriculturists. In connection with his sons he built and operated the first steam mill in the county. He lived in retirement from 1874 until his death, ten years later, surviving his wife, who died in 1881. Their eight children were Samuel, Mary, Elizabeth, George H., Marietta, Israel T., Antillis and Thomas. Of these five were living in 1907.

George H. Fosler, whose birth occurred in Wayne county, Indiana, June 29, 1841, accompanied his parents to this county in 1863 and remained on the home place until his twenty-sixth year. At twenty-three years of age he assumed charge of his father's farm and was also associated with his father and brother in the manufacture of lumber, owning and operating a steam sawmill for about fourteen years. In 1872 Mr. Fosler discontinued farming and moving to South Whitley turned his attention to dealing in horses, which he has since followed with most gratifying results, being not only the largest and most successful buyer and trader in the county, but one of the best known in northern Indiana, besides enjoying repute among the leading dealers throughout the country. He also owns and operates a fine livery barn, which is well equipped with all the latest and most approved conveniences, his courtesy and wide acquaintance contributing not a little to the lucrative patronage which he enjoys. Some idea of the success of Air. Fosler as a breeder may be gleaned from the fact that he owns five fine stallions, a Belgian, a Clyde, a Norman and two Wilkes, representing in the aggregate many thousands of dollars. Mr. Fosler has achieved well merited success in his enterprises, owning in addition to his barn a fine modern dwelling and other city proptery and a valuable farm of two hundred and forty acres near Bloomington. Indiana. He has demonstrated ability as a financier, possessing foresight, discrimination and judgment. He was selected to settle the family estate, which was done to the satisfaction of all concerned, and his services have often been in demand in the adjustment of various interests. Mr. Fosler is justly considered a horse authority and to him more than to any other is due the credit of arousing an interest in fine horses and in leading the farmers to appreciate improved and blooded animals, many of which through his efforts have been introduced.

Mr. Fosler has not been unmindful of his duties as a citizen, having manifested a lively interest in the public weal and taken an active part in encouraging all movements having for their object the material advancement of his city and county and the moral good of his fellowmen. He is a Republican, but not aspiring to official position, and he is a regular attendant of the Methodist church.

Mr. Fosler has been twice married, first on Christmas day, 1868, to Miss Sarah, daughter of William B. Dunlap. who died the mother of two children: Clem D., his father's partner in business, and Enda M., wife of Abraham Crist, a millwright of South Whitley. His second marriage was in [882 with Emma, daughter of Joseph Meyers, one of the old settlers and well-todo men of Whitley county, the union being blessed with two offspring: Georgia, wife of Clyde Dressbach, a traveling salesman of Fort Wayne, and Catherine, who married Graham Davies, an electrician in Chicago.

Samuel Frazier Trembley

was born in 1872 in Richland township. Whitley county, Indiana, near the town of Larwill, upon the John S. Trembley farm. He received his early education at the Hazel Hill school, afterwards attending the high school at Larwill. then attending the Northern Indiana Normal School at Valparaiso, Indiana, where he graduated from the scientific course with the class of 1896. After teaching school for a few years he and B. F. McNear formed a partnership for the purpose of selling buggies - and harness under the firm name of Trembley & McNear, which firm by honest dealing and strict attention to business has grown to be the largest of its kind in northern Indiana.

Mr. Trembley was reared upon a farm and for the past fifteen years has had active management of the Trembley farm. He is considered one of the best judges of good farming and good stock in the county, and by his fair dealing has acquired the confidence of all who know him.

His father, John Sebron Trembley, was of Dutch and French descent, born in New Jersey in 1813. In 1842 he came to Whitley count}-, Indiana, locating upon the farm now owned by the Trembleys. He was a contractor and builder in earl}- life, but later devoted his entire attention to farming and stock raising. He was a member of the Grace Lutheran church and politically a Republican.

He married Mary Ann Frazier Compton in 1870 and to this union three children were born : Samuel Frazier Trembley, Velma Virginia Trembley Evans and Mabel Effie Trembley, deceased. Mary Ann Frazier, his wife, was of Scotch-Irish descent.

born in [Muskingum county, Ohio, and educated at the young ladies' seminary at Granville, Ohio, has by her Christian life been an example of what the duties of a wife and mother should be.

Mr. Trembley was elected auditor of Whitley county November 6, 1906, by the Republicans, of which party he has been an active worker. His large acquaintance in the county and his standing with the business men made him an easy winner. The duties of which office he entered upon, January 1, 1907.

Joseph Lawrence Williamson

The gentleman whose career is herewith briefly sketched is a well known and esteemed citizen of South Whitley, and a representative of one of the pioneer families of Cleveland township, whose genealogy is outlined in the biography of Perry M. Williamson on another page. Joseph L. Williamson was born January 11, 1841. in Preble county, Ohio, and in 1843 was brought by his parents to Indiana, since when his life has been closely interwoven with the history of Whitley county. Reared amid the scenes of the pioneer period, his youthful life partook largely of the nature of his environment, having early learned the lesson of independence and self-reliance which the spirit of those times appears to have inculcated in the majority of lads raised in close touch with nature. At the proper age he attended school, taught in a diminutive log cabin, in which rough benches without backs were used by the primary pupils and a wide board resting on pins fastened to the wall answered the purpose of a writing desk, the interior being heated by a large fireplace, which occupied the greater part of one side of the room. In this back-woods college, which he attended two or three months of each winter season until a youth in his teens, young Williamson not only mastered the rudiments of- an English education but made considerable progress in the several branches then taught, the greater part of the mental discipline, however, being that kind obtained by coming in contact with his fellowmen in the various relations and transactions of everyday life. He grew to manhood on a farm and in the main has devoted his energies to agriculture, in which his success has been gratifying, as his present comfortable circumstances abundantly attest. He owns a fine farm of one hundred acres, adjoining the place on which his father settled and his improvements compare with the best in the township. His buildings include a substantial modern residence, which is commodious, comfortable and convenient ; a fine barn and other structures, all up-to-date and fully answering the purpose for which designed, while the system of drainage, consisting of over one thousand rods of well laid tile, bears evidence of the close attention devoted to the care and cultivation of the soil. Mr. Williamson is a farmer of advanced ideas, familiar with every phase of agricultural science and by adopting new and improved methods his labors have been rewarded with abundant harvests. He has also paid con-

December 17, 18O4, Mr. Williamson was united in wedlock with Miss Susanna, daughter of Harmon and Edith (Edwards) Smith, natives of Ohio and among the pioneers of Whitley county, the father coming to Cleveland township as early as 1845 and dying a few months later, being one of the first men buried in Cleveland cemetery. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Williamson has resulted in the birth of seven children : Mary J., wife of Levi A. Burwell, of Loveland, Colorado; Edith May, proprietor of the Home Bakery and Restaurant at North Manchester; Sylvester, a farmer at Loveland, Colorado ; Mina married Charles Earnhart, a railway employe at Elkhart"; Cora Etta is the housekeeper for her father ; Harley manages his father's farm ; Jessie Alice is engaged in the millinery business at South Whitley.

The mother died December 28, 1900. Two years later Mr. Williamson turned the management of the farm over to his son and moved to South Whitley, where he has since resided, owning a nice property and being well situated to enjoy a life of honorable retirement. In politics he votes with the Republican party and the Baptist church, of which he has long been a consistent member, represents his religious creed.

Melvin Blain

son of James and Jane (Scott) Blain. James was born in Ross county, Ohio, being the son of Alexander Blain, who moved to Indiana in 1840 and spent the remainder of his life in Troy and Etna townships. His wife was the daughter of John Scott, who came from Madison county, Ohio, to \\ "hitley county in 1836 and entered one hundred and sixty acres of land in Etna township, upon which the village of Etna now stands. James and Jane Blain were married in Etna township, then included in Noble county. For some years he was a teacher in the northern part of the county and exerted a strong influence toward the intellectual and moral progress of his community. He was chosen justice of the peace, and so well did he prove adapted to the needs that he was repeatedly selected, serving a period of twelve years, his influence being ever to the peaceful settlement of disputes rather than resort to law.

He and his wife were devoted and exemplary members of the Baptist church,- to which they gave faithful and liberal support. Twelve children were born to them : Lafayette and John, both deceased; Maiy Ellen, wife of Ambrose Kiester; Ida, widow of Ira Grant; William A., a fireman on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad and killed in a collision, aged twenty-six ; Minerva, deceased; Frances E., wife of S. E. Templeton ; Roxy, at home: Melvin; Delia, wife of John Buckles; Thomas and Andrew, both deceased in infancy.

Melvin Blain was raised on the farm and educated in the common schools. At the age of twenty-one he assumed management of his father's farm, which he continued till 1899, when he removed to Columbia City to enter upon the duties of county treasurer.

to which he had been elected as the nominee of the Democratic party, to which he had given faithful allegiance, being one of the recognized leaders of public opinion in his township, and had served it upon various occasions in conventions and at the polls. His conduct of the office of treasurer, coupled with natural affability, insured a reelection to the limit allowed by law. He is the present drain commissioner, the duties of which he is peculiarly well qualified to perform. He holds an interest and is a director in the Farmers' Mutual Telephone Company and is also a stockholder in the Wawassee electric line. His social and fraternal relations are with the Modern Woodmen and Masons, being a Knight Templar. December 27, 1888, he was married to Cora E. Goodrich, who was born in Iowa, October 15, 1867, and is the daughter of Silas and Adaline (Cook) Goodrich, early settlers in this county. To this union were born three children : Gladys, Ruth and James G. With his companion Mr. Blain holds affiliation with the Methodist church, being in accord not only with its teachings as to a future state but a sympathizer and co-laborer in all that makes for advanced citizenship.

The parents of William I. Mowrey were John and Elizabeth (Schrader) Mowrey, the father born in Wayne county, Ohio. July 15, 1832, the mother born November 28, 1838, at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. They were married April 5, i860. Elizabeth was a daughter of Martin and Fanny (Koons)

Schrader, who came to Whitley county in the fall of 1845. In 1859 John Mowrey moved to Whitley count)- and bought wild land in Jefferson township, which he cleared and improved and on which he lived as a prosperous tiller of the soil until called from earthly scenes July 22, 1899, being preceded by his wife, who died March 24th, the same year. Of their nine children the following are living: Mary, wife of William Yohe, of Jefferson township ; William I. ; Arthur S., who lives near Raber; Cora and Etta own and live at the old home; Mark V., a resident of the vicinity, and Ruth, who married Alvin L. Richards, a student of Yale College. The names of the deceasedare Nannie. Charles and Cleone. all having reached maturity.

John Mowrey was a man of enterprise and through his own industry and superior business methods acquired an ample fortune, owning at one time realty to the amount of six hundred and forty acres, besides valuable personal property, his estate, of which William I. and his brother Arthur S. were administrators, being conservatively estimated at $50,000. He was public spirited in the most liberal sense of the term, a leader of local enterprises for the material advancement of the community and as a neighbor and citizen enjoyed the confidence and esteem of all with whom he -had business or other relations or who came within the sphere of his influence. He was a Republican and held religious belief with Evergreen Bethel Church of God, of which he was a member.

.Mr. Mowrey has one hundred acres, formerly included in his father's farm, the greater part under cultivation, and his improvements consist of a beautiful modern residence of attractive design erected in [897, a fine bank barn forty by sixty feet in dimensions and other buildings, besides a complete svstem of tile drainage and good fences, all of which bear testimony to the capable management and progressive spirit of the owner. He makes it a point to feed the product of his place to stock, in the raising of which he has kept pace with the most successful stockmen in this part of the state, growing high-grade animals. Mr. Mowrey is a man of sound sense and wise discretion and not infrequently has been consulted in relation to important business matters, concerning which his judgment has seldom been at fault. He has acted as guardian of minor heirs at different times, and at the death of his father was one of the administrators of the latter's estate, the affairs of which were adjusted in an able and business like manner, creditable to himself and satisfactory to all parties concerned.

Mr. Mowrey is a Republican and a diligent worker for his party in all its operations. He is influential and popular in political circles and few citizens of his community are held in higher esteem bv the public. Fraternally he holds membership with the Knights of Pythias in Columbia City and with his wife belongs to the Pythian Sisters. He is ready at all times to aid with his advice and means every project designed to increase the comfort and happiness of his fellowmen and for a number of years he has

December 3, 1890, Mr. Mowrey married Miss Clara, daughter of Joseph and Harriet E. (Bronson) Cook, who moved to Whitley county from Ohio in 1845 and settled near Columbia City, being pioneers of Columbia township, one mile west of the city, where he made a farm from the woods, on which they passed the remainder of their lives. Mr. and Mrs. Mowrey have two children : Sydney L. and Harriet I., both at home and students in the public schools.

George Lee

George Lee, a well known contractor and builder, was born in Whitley county March 1, i860, and is the son of James H. and Anna (Rosenfelter) Lee, the former a native of Stark county, Ohio, and the latter of Germany. Her parents were George and Mary (Rickard) Rosenfelter, who came to America about 1827 and settled on a farm in Stark county, which was then in a wild condition. James H. Lee was married in Stark county, in 1850, and came to Whitley county in 1855, engaging in the saw-mill business, his being the first steam saw-mill in Cleveland township. His mill was twice destroyed by fire and subsequently he bought a. piece of land adjoining and there followed farming until his death in 1889. He was a member of the United Brethren church, as is his widow who survives him. They had six children : Frances, wife of Henry Wilson, and Ida, wife of Samuel

Branenburg. both farmers of Cleveland township: Elijah, a carpenter in Huntington ; George ; Lincoln, a fanner of Cleveland township : and Amanda, wife of Charles Howenstine, a carpenter of South Whitley. George Lee was reared to farm labor and attended the common schools. September 20, 1883, he was united in marriage with Mis- Paulina, daughter of Martin and Sarah (Finkbone) Fettro, natives _of Ohio, both now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Lee have five children: Roy. Garnett, Nina, Edna and Clella. One year after marriage Mr. Lee left the farm and moved to South Whitley, where he engaged in general contracting. He carries a large and well selected stock of builders' materials, including paints, oils, lime, cement, etc. He also manufactures cement blocks. During the busy season he gives employment to a force of twenty-five workmen, while he keeps five men constantly employed. Mr. Lee is public spirited, lends an active support and co-operation to every movement for the general good and is regarded in business and social circles as a gentleman of sterling worth and a loyal friend, whom to know is to honor and esteem. He is a stockholder in the Farmers' State Bank and in the Farmers' Telephone Company. Fraternally he is identified with the Knights of Pythias and Modern Woodmen, while politically he supports the Republican party. He served as village trustee.

Charles Harrison Jones

of Eli R. and Anna ( Crow ) Jones, both natives of Wayne count}-. His parents were Levi M. and Mary ( Thomas) Jones, both natives of Virginia, but of Welsh descent. They came to Centreville, Wayne county, in 181 5, where they conducted an old-time tavern. Mr. Jones died in October. 1823. leaving ten children. The widow removed to a farm in Wayne county, where she reared her children, living to see all reach maturity. Eli R. Jones was born at Centreville, Wayne count}', in 1818, there grew to manhood and on October 20, 1840, was married to Anna Crow, who became the mother of ten children : Helen, wife of D. J. Bowman, of South Bend: Mary J., wife of Robert Blaine: Anna, wife of Samuel Orcutt, of Etna township; Edna, wife of William Long; Sarah, widow of Henry C. Scott; Alice, deceased wife of Wilson B. Cunningham : Emma, deceased wife of Herman Hartsock ; Joseph, living at North Webster; Oliver, died an infant, and Charles H.

In 1849, the family moved to Etna township and purchased one hundred and sixty acres of native forest land, which is still owned by Charles H. Jones. The farm was well fenced and thoroughly underdrained, and in later years a large and elegant In itise and commodious barn were erected. The father was a Republican and both parents were members of the Baptist church. Both crossed the mystic river in 1S9S, honored and respected by all.

Charles H. Jones was born on the farm, attending the common schools and lived at home until manhood, being married November 10. 1S81, to Sarah A., daughter of Davis and Mary J. ( Whan) Earll. born in Noble county, January 30, 1862. Mr. and Mrs. Earll -were natives of Ohio and Penn- sylvania respectively, and came to Noble county when children. Davis Earll died ' November 19. 1863, while his widow now resides with her children. The only other child is Joseph P. Earll, a farmer of Troy township. 1 laving no children of their own Mr. ami Mrs. Jones have adopted a son, Clyde E., aged twenty-three, besides which they have afforded a home for eight years to .Maude Wilson Jones, a school girl. Clyde was adopted as a child of ten. He passed through the high school and is now on the farm. He married Nevada Miller. Mr. Jones bought part of the homestead where they lived from the death of his father until retiring to Columbia City in 1906. He retains his one-hundred-and-eighty-acre farm to which most of his business life has been devoted and which he has brought to a high state of fertility by systematic culture and thorough drainage. It is well improved and has yielded liberal financial returns for the labor and attention bestowed. Mr. Jones is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and both belong to the Rebekahs. He is a Republican and served as trustee of Etna township four years, the elegant central school building at Etna being erected at a cost of twelve thousand dollars under his supervision. The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and render due support and encouragement to all means of social and moral advancement.

Abraham D. Green

Abraham 1). Green, member of the Columbia City council, contractor and builder, living on North Chauncey street, was born September 12, 1855, in Baltimore, Maryland, and is the son of Joseph and Sarah (Atcroft) Green, who were born and married in Staffordshire, England. In 1845 they came to Philadelphia and have lived at Baltimore, Maryland. Youngstown, Ohio, and Milwaukee. Wisconsin. He was a moulder, a trade he followed successfully, now living a comfortable and retired life at Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, surviving his companion who died in 1894. He rendered his adopted country faithful service as a soldier in the Civil war. Seven children were born to them. Jennie, the widow of Mr. Williamson : David H., living in Mansfield. Ohio: James W., of Columbia City; George E., living in the state of Washington ; Abraham, and Frank, of Knox, Stark county, Indiana.

Abraham D. Green attended the common schools and in young manhood learned the trade of brick-making, which he followed several years. In the spring of 1882, he moved to Columbia City and entered into partnership with his brother David and engaged in the manufacture of brick, which they continued until 1892. He then became a contractor and builder and constructed many of the important buildings in the city, among .them being the Clugston Hotel, ice plant. Harper Company building, Presbyterian church, Brahm livery barn, electric light building. George H. Harper's shop and several of the most pretentious and modern residences. He owns valuable town property besides a productive farm of eighty acres in Troy township. His social and fraternal relations are identified with several secret societies, being a member of the Order of Ben Hur and Independent Order of Odd

Fellows since twenty-one years of age, and a charter member of the Crystal Lodge, Knights of Pythias. He has been active in the work of these bodies, being representative to the grand lodges of the two last named as well as of the Ancient Order of United Workmen. He is a Republican and -as such was elected to the city council in 1905 and is reckoned by his confreres as one of the most valued members, particularly on those committees having supervision of city buildings and public property. He stands for advanced and progressive methods and is an ardent believer in and supporter of municipal ownership of all public utilities.

October 27, 1906, Mr. Green was called upon to mourn the loss of his companion, who for nearly a quarter of a century had T)een a faithful helpmate, whose earnest desire was to work in harmony with her hus- "band, and exerting a mother's love and influence in shaping her children's characters for good and noble ends.

On April 16, 1882, Mr. Green was married to Mary Ellen, daughter of William and Harriet P. (Ward) Thompson, born in Troy township, May 2, 1853. Mr. and Mrs. Thompson were early settlers in this township and are now both deceased. Four children were born to them : Bessie, deceased rat seven years ; Dewitt, Arba and Frank.

Tohx Magley

John Magley, a pioneer farmer of this -county, now living retired in Columbia City, was born August 22, 1823, in Oberlipp. Canton of Berne, Switzerland, and is the son of Christian and Elizabeth (Flickinger) Magley, who in 1831 migrated to the newworld. Reaching Buffalo, New York, they were delayed all winter, the lake being impassable. Here the family met with an irretrievable loss, the wife and mother dying before their new home was established. The father moved with his family to Fairfield county, Ohio, in the spring of 1832, where he remained a few years and removed to Franklin county, where he died in 1839. The seven children were : Christian, deceased; John: John U.. living in California; Elizabeth, deceased ; Mary, living in Columbus, Ohio; Anna and Jacob, deceased.

After the death of the father the children were bound out, except Christian and John, who being sixteen years of age, returned to Fairfield county, finding employment on the farm by the day or month. He also learned the carpenter trade, which he followed successfully some years. In 1847, Mr. Magley returned to his native land and attended school there to more thoroughly familiarize himself with his native language but concluding that he had better advantages in the United States, decided to return. In 1853, he was married in Columbus, to Elizabeth Magley. who was born in the same Canton, Switzerland, in 1830. They moved to Thorncreek township, Whitley county, in 1854, purchasing forty acres of heavily timbered, unbroken forest land. By industry and frugality, they in time acquired a competency including a ninety-acre farm but wishing to live less laboriously they moved tn Columbia City in 10,01. To them nine children were born: Benjamin F., of whom an extended notice is found elsewhere : William H., who married Mary Simonson and lives in Columbia City, having one child, Dorothy; John W., married Ida Scott and lives in Columbia City, with one child, Scott; Ella. Louisa, and Aclella, deceased; Ida, living at home: Alice, deceased; and Homer.

While John Magley has spent his life as a fanner, in which he has been more than ordinarily successful, yet he has found time and pleasure to take an interest in local politics. He is a Republican and as such was elected township trustee, serving four years with credit to himself and satisfaction of the public. He was also elected a justice of the peace, but refused to qualify. He was nominated for the office of county treasurer, but the strength opposed proved too formidable.

After traveling as companions for nearly fifty years, he was left to continue to the end without his wife's advice and support, she responding October 9, 1896, to the touch of the angel of death. Yet with his. faithful daughter to lean upon in his declining years he reviews with pleasure the labors of the past and with faith as to the future awaits the summons to join those who have gfone before.

Charles F. Marchand

Charles F. Marchand. who is living retired in the town of Larwill, was born in Switzerland, December 23, 1833, and is the son of Frederick and Sophia ( Geiauque) .Marchand, who came to this country in 1836. settling in Holmes county, Ohio. Here he engaged in farming, but having learned the trade of shoemaker in his youth, found a local demand that required much of his time and which was of great assistance as-- a source of cash income. In 185 1, he moved to Wayne county, Ohio, and retired from active labor, the management of the farm devolving upon the younger shoulders of his son, Charles F. It tested his physical as well as his mental capacity, but he met the requirements and responsibilities with courage and discretion, proving himself fully capable to succed in almost any undertaking. Late in 1864 the family moved to Whitley county, Indiana, settling in Troy township, where the parents both passed to their final reward, he dying in 1868 and she in 1S95.

Frederick Marchand gave nine years of his young manhood to the military service of his native country, participating in the battle of Waterloo under Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, and was there wounded. Of their eleven children ten reached maturity : Frederick, Jacob, Edward, Henry, all four deceased ; Charles F. ; Julia, wife of William Starett, living in North Manchester ; Christina, living in Cleveland, Ohio; William, Samuel, Mary, all three deceased.

Charles F. Machand was only two years old wdien the family came to this country. He grew7 to manhood on the farm and was trained to agriculture, receiving only such educational advantages as were to be obtained in the subscription schools. In 1856, he went to Iowa and operated a saw-mill with a couple of Arnold brothers. In four years, having saved one thousand dollars, he returned to Wayne county, Ohio, and soon engaged in the manufacture of lumber in Holmes county, continuing in the same four years and clearing sixteen hundred dollars. In 1864, he sold the mill and came to Troy township, Whitley county, purchasing two hundred and twenty acres of land, including a saw-mill. This required an investment of six; thousand dollars, one thousand being paid in cash and ten per cent, mortgage notes given for the balance. Eighty acres of the original purchase were sold, leaving nearly a quarter section which is today a splendid farm. In 1868, he sold the mill and purchased the old home farm consisting of a quarter section of fine land on which he continued to live till 1892, having been successful in acquiring a number of valuable farms and business properties. In addition to the two farms already mentioned, he owns one hundred and sixty acres of. land in Lagrange county, Indiana, one hundred and sixty acres in section 1, Troy township, one hundred and thirty acres in section 13, Troy township, some business blocks in Columbia City, two business rooms in Marion, Indiana, a few lots in Chicago, dwelling and business property in Larwill, besides the elegant residence in which he lives.

In 1855, he was married to Lodema, daughter of Benjamin and Elizabeth (Weaver) Trueman, who were natives of New York, the latter departing this life when her daughter was quite small. Her nine children were Levi, Lodema, and Louisa, living in Huntington, Indiana ; Lewis and John, deceased ; Lorinda. wife of James Bullers. of Larwill ; Mary, wife of Jeremiah Zartman ; Melissa and Martha, deceased.

Mr. Trueman was married the second time and in 1865 came to Indiana, settling in Troy township, where he died at the age of ninety-two years. Mr. and Mrs. Marchand have had five children, of whom four are living: Henry J., farmer and lumberman of Lagrange; Jacob C. living in Troy township; Samuel B., also a farmer of Troy township; Lyman S., who lives in Larwill. On Thanksgiving day in 1905, Mrs. Marchand suffered a stroke of paralysis while visiting in Cleveland, since which time she has been unable to walk, yet she bears the affliction with cheerfulness and Christian fortitude. Mr. Marchand is a Knight Templar Mason, exemplifying his faith in his dailv life.

John F. Mossman

The progenitor of the branch of the Mossman family to which John F. belongs, appears to have been a soldier in the border wars and internal dissensions of Scotland during the reign of James V. the last King who ruled over that country. Family tradition says that this man was a personal attendant of the King, a member of his body guard, and that he distinguished himself on a number of battle-fields, besides performing other valiant services, which won the confidence of his ruler. He was entrusted with the King's crown and built it into solid masonry when it was found one hundred years later. This retainer, however, was executed for his loyalty to his King. The Monsmans or Mossman as the name afterward became, migrated from Scotland to Ireland, in both of which countries the name is still familiar, there being at present in the' city of Edinburgh two distinguished sculptors of the first-class by the name of Mossman. From Ireland four brothers emigrated to America. The Mussmans of Chicopee, Massachusetts, among whom was the sculptor who designed the equestrian statue of General Grant in Lincoln I 'ark. Chicago, are descendants, artistic talenl and strong mental powers being characteristic of the family. One of the four brothers, John Mossman, settled in Pennsylvania, and finally went to Muskingum county. Ohio, where he died. His son, Francis Mossman, father of John T., was a Pennsylvanian by birth, but in early life was taken to Muskingum county, Ohio., where he married Rhua Connor, from Virginia, and in 1842 moved to Whitley county, purchasing a quarter section of land in Richland township, on which he erected a log cabin. The following year he purchased a like number of acres in Union and transfering his residence immediately entered one hundred and sixty acres'adjoining. He died in Columbia City in his ninety-fifth year, surviving his wife about one year. The nine children who reached maturity were John F. ; Mary, the wife of Honord Pierce, of Chicago ; Alcinda, widow of David Nickey and lives in Smith township ; William E., an extensive manufacturer of lumber and knit goods and in the firm of Mossman & Yarnell, at Fort Wayne; George S., a lumber manufacturer of Huntington county where he died at about fifty years of age; Orpha. wife of A. B. Nickey, a lumberman of Princeton, Indiana; Frank M., a farmer of Union township; James A., county assessor, living at Columbia City; and Maximillian, wife of Nathan Daugherty, of Wabash county.

John I". Mossman was born February 14, 1837, in Coshocton county, Ohio, accompanied his parents upon their removal to Indiana and has since been a resident of Whitley count)', of which he is reckoned among its leading farmers and citizens. He worked on the home farm until his marriage, which was solemnized January 21, 1864, with Miss Susan M. Young, whose birth occurred near Baltimore, New York, August 28, 1845. being the daughter of John J. and Rachel (Hollenbeck) Young, who were also natives of that state. When Susan M. was four years old her mother, then the wife of James Worden, settled on the farm where Mr. and Mrs. Mossman now live, trading forty acres in New York for three hundred and twenty acres in the woods near Coesse. Her stepfather started this farm, the original buildings still standing. He and her mother removed to Columbia City after Susan's marriage and both died there, he at about eighty years and she at sixty-five years. Her two children were Rachel Ann and Susan. Mr. Mossman purchased the farm of two hundred acres on which Mr. and Mrs. Mossman -have lived since their marriage. Under his efficient labors and management it has become a profitable farm. The buildings are modern and well constructed, the house being one of the best in the township. It is nicely located but a short distance from the railroad station and is a commodious and desirable home.

In 18S0, Mr. Mossman was elected trustee of Union township and made an honorable record, doing much during four years' service to advance its material interests. He also served on the advisory board and in the county council. He is a Republican and is recognized as one of the party's consistent members.

real estate, being the owner of four hundred acres of fine land, the greater part in cultivation and otherwise highly improved. He has been quite successful in business matters, being one of the substantial men of this county, few standing higher in public esteem or enjoying in greater degree the confidence and respect of his neighbors and friends. Mr. and Mrs. Mossman are the parents of six children: James F.,Orpha, Charles H., Jessie E., Zella Z. and Mazie R. James F. lives in Coesse and is a farmer. He married Sarah Holoman. Orpha is the wife of Harmon Xaber, of Wabash county. Charles H. was on the farm and died in his thirtyfirst year. Jessie E. is the wife of Bert Shelkett and she is with her parents. Zella Z. is also with her parents. Mazie R. is the wife of Lewis Oser, of Columbia City.

Eli L. Eberhard. M. D., was born in Y\ nitley county. June 23, 1S57, his parents being George and Barbara ( Nieble) Eberhard. The paternal grandparents were George and Catherine (Sneider) Eberhard, natives of Pennsylvania. They lived in Whitley county the greater part of their lives and were the parents of six children. Mr. Eberhard died in 1885 and his wife in the early 'seventies. George Eberhard was born in Stark county, Ohio.' and accompanied his parents to Indiana about 1840. He married Barbara Nieble. who came from Wurtemberg. Germany, and followed farming in Columbia township, his widow still living on the old homestead, four miles south of Columbia City. They were the parents of twelve children : Eli L. ; Catherine, wife of Jeremiah Steamer, a resident of Columbia township ; Frank, who resides on the old homestead ; Fanny, wife of John C. Myers, of Columbia township; George, also near the old home; Ella, wife of Arthur Paige, of Washington township ; Mar}', wife of Edward Emery, of Huntington, Indiana ; Daniel, a farmer of Columbia township ; Melissa, wife of Enos Goble, of Washington township; Charles, who died in infancy; Laura, wife of S. J. Paige, of Union township; and Ettie, now Mrs. Bowman, of Columbia City.

Eli L. Eberhard passed his youthful days on the old farm, securing his academic education in the common schools and at the Valparaiso Normal school. Wishing to engage in the profession of medicine he early began his technical reading under the tutorship of Dr. I. E. Lawrence, entering the Medical College of Ohio, at Cincinnati, and in March, 1880, graduated with the degree of Doctor of Medicine. March 15, 1880, he came to South Whitley and engaged in active practice, where he is now enjoying a large and lucrative patronage. February 21, 1S82. he was united in marriage with Miss Mary C. Casner, who was born in Wooster, Ohio, the daughter of Frederick Casner. a native of Virginia and now deceased. Doctor and Mrs. Eberhard have one son. Fred G., a graduate of Culver Military Academy. Dr. Eberhard is a Democrat, though inclined to lie independent, supporting the man regardless of strict party lines. His religious creed is in harmony with the Presbyterian church, while fraternally he is a member of the Knights of

Pythias and Masons. He is a member of the American Medical Association, The Indiana State Medical Society, the Whitley County Association and the American Association of Railway Surgeons. He is examiner for practically all the Legal Reserve Life Insurance Companies. He is also surgeon for the Nickel Plate and the Vandalia Railroad companies. The Doctor has ever manifested a deep interest in medicine from a scientific as well as humanitarian standpoint and keeps fully abreast with the recognized advancement of this, the noblest of professions. Careful in diagnosis, painstaking in care of patients, ever courteous in manner and kindly in disposition, his popularity professionally is thoroughly assured and his influence for social and moral advancement is firmly established.

Monroe W. Webster. B. S. M. D., of South Whitley, was born in Whitley county. October 8, [851, and is the son of Albert and Sarah Henderson (Elliott) Webster. Albert Webster was born in Pennsylvania and accompanied his parents to Indiana in 1850. After his marriage he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of heavily timbered land in which the ax of the woodman had never been heard and thereon erected a log house, lie was a cooper as well as a plasterer by trade and plastered the old Whitley county courthouse. He cultivated his farm until he was able to retire and is now spending the evening of life in comfort fin his two-hundred-and-forty-acre farm in

Richland township, at the patriarchal age of ninety-three years. Sarah Henderson ( Elliott) Webster, who was a native of Delaware and of Scotch extraction, died in 1894. Mr. and Mrs. Albert Webster had six children: Anna, who is living at home; George, a fanner in Richland township; James, who was killed in the battle of Chickamauga ; Albert, operating the homestead ; David, deceased ; and Monroe W.

Monroe W. Webster was reared on the farm, attended the district school and also the village school at Larwill, taught by the present Judge Adair; supplementing this by attendance at Hillsdale, Michigan, and at Butler University. Indianapolis. In 1880, he graduated from the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware, Ohio, and entered the medical department of the State University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. He was graduated from Rush Medical College at Chicago in 1882, and then came to South Whitley, where he has since been in active practice with the exception of three years spent in Huntington. In 1885. he married Miss Ella, daughter of Joseph and Harriett (Guess) Stults, natives of Ohio, but later residents of Washington township, where her birth occurred in 1854. They have one daughter, Vivian, a student in the senior class of high school. Dr. Webster is a member of the Masonic order and of the Democratic party. Pie and his wife are members of the Methodist church. A diligent student and careful investigator, Dr. Webster is fully in touch with modern medical thought and occupies a conspicuous place not onlv in the confidence of his patients and of the public generally, but also in the esteem of his professional brethren.

David W. Nickey

The history of Smith township was materially advanced in every way financially, socially and religiously by the life of David W. Nickey, who contributed his full share toward the development and advancement of every worthy enterprise. The equality of man was one of his* cardinal principles and whatever promoted the public welfare received his cordial and faithful support. True he did not distinguish himself greatly in any one thing, yet he so completely discharged the duties of good citizenship that he easily won the reputation of a model citizen. It is almost a decade since his gen- spirit passed to that "bourne from whence no traveler returns," but his name continues a household word with the people generally.

He was born in Smith township, July 6, 1837, and was the son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Gradless) Nickey, both natives of Ohio. Samuel Nickey was born in Augusta county. Virginia, in 1809, accompanied his widowed mother to Ross county, Ohio, and there taught school and married in 1832. The next year in company with his wife's father, William Gradless, and Absalom Hyre. he came to Indiana, he and Hyre to Whitley and Gradless to Allen county. Mr. Nickey died in 1862 at the Gradless homestead in Allen county, surviving his wife three years. Their children were: Rebecca, who became the wife of Silas Briggs ; David W. ; Mary H.. who married Samuel Pierce, of Noble county ; Martha E. and William A., deceased; and Addison B.. of Allen county. David W. Nickey was married in i860 to Alcinda, daughter of Francis and

Rheua ( Conner) Mossman, who was born March 26, 1840, in Muskingum county, Ohio. They were natives of Ohio, but settled in \\ nitley county in 1844, where they remained until the close of their lives. They were members of the Lutheran church, giving it their punctual and regular attendance, and liberal support. The father died in 1900 and the mother in 1902. Nine children were born to them : John, a farmer living in Union township; Mary, wife of Howard Pierce, residing in Chicago ; Alcinda ; William E., living in Fort Wayne; George, deceased at about forty years ; Frank, a farmer living in Union township : James Albert, living at Columbia City; Maxie. wife of Nathan Dougherty, of Wabash county ; and Orpha, wife of A. B. Nickey and living in Princeton, Indiana.

Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Nickey, Rheua E., who was married to Dr. George C. Steman and died in 1906 at their home in Denver. Colorado. They had two children, Ruth E. and David C. Alfred J. married Mildred Allen and is a farmer in Smith township. David W. Nickey. received a hundred acres of good land from his father's estate, which he improved and brought to a high state of cultivation. A modern brick residence, roomy and convenient and one of the finest in the county, was erected in 1869. A large barn adds not only to the convenience and value, but to the appearance and beauty of the farm. The farm, containing one hundred and forty-six acres, together with improvements, is considered one of the best in the count}-.

departed this life June 15, 1S97. and the widow continues to live on the farm, the management of which she directs in a general way. Being a member of the Masonic fraternity his funeral was conducted in accordance with the last rites of that order.

Benjamin Franklin Hull

Benjamin Franklin Hull, dealer in monuments, building stone, etc., was born in Union township, September 8, 1859, and is the son of Henry and Jane (Gardner) Hull. Henry Hull was the son of Adam and Elizabeth ( H earner) Hull, both natives of Virginia. Adam Hull came to Fort Wayne in 1826. and two years later started to the Elkhart prairies, but finding Eel river dangerous to ford, entered land in Eel River township. Allen county, and remained there until the close of his life. Nine children were born to them, namely : Adam, Rufus, Henry and Harvey, deceased. Peter, living in Kansas ; Barbara and Jane, deceased ; Elizabeth, living in Kansas, and Catherine, living in Churubusco. After the father's death, his widow married a Mr. Hensel, living with him until his death, which occurred in Noble count}-.

Jane Gardner was born in New York, and was the daughter of Benjamin and Permelia Gardner, both natives of New York, who came to Union township in [835. Henry and Jane Hull had nine children: William, a farmer in Oregon; [saac, of Jewell countw Kansas; Elizabeth, wife of Lloyd Sifers, of Oklahoma; James K. died in infancy; Adam died in Colorado in 1904;

Benjamin F. Hull remained with his parents until reaching manhood, meantime receiving the advantages of the common schools. March 24, 1881, he was married to Loretta Elizabeth, daughter of Arthur and Lavina ( Kratzer) Rub}-, born in Allen county, June 9, 1859. Mr. and Mrs. Ruby moved from Ohio, becoming prosperous and successful fanners of Allen county. They are the parents of four children : Loretta E., Frank and Ada, living in Fort Wayne, and Williarn R., a Wabash railroad fireman of Peru, Indiana. Benjamin F.'s children are Hulburt. Ruby L.. Alary Jane, Laura Bell, wife of John Kaufman, a farmer of Union township ; Arthur, Ada, deceased ; Frank, Edward Wayne and Clyde. In 1883 Mr. Hull purchased a small farm in Union township, which he later sold and purchased the old home farm, containing eighty acres, where he remained until 1896, when he became the Democratic nominee for sheriff and his election followed with a handsome majority. The systematic and efficient manner in which he conducted the business was gratifying not only to his personal and party friends, but to the public as well, so that a second term was readily accorded him. He is said to have made one of the most capablesheriffs the county has ever had.

Soon after retirement from the officehe engaged in his present line of commerce to which he devotes his entire attention. He keeps a full line of monumental work and is prepared to supply cut and ordinary building stone upon short notice. Mr. Hull is a Knight of Pythias and a Maccabee. He

George W. Lawrence

This old and esteemed citizen, whose name is familiar in every part of Whitley county, hails from the historic commonwealth of Ohio. His parents, John A. and Sarah (Rouch) Lawrence, were natives of Pennsylvania, the former born January 22, 1808, the latter June 7, 1807. John A. Lawrence was taken to Ohio by his parents when about fourteen years of age and grew to manhood in Wayne county, where his marriage occurred September 28, 1827. He learned blacksmithing but gave little attention to the trade, preferring the profession of civil engineering, in which he became quite proficient and which he followed for a number of years, serving several terms as official surveyor of Wayne county. He and his wife were stanch members of the Lutheran church and are remembered as zealous and consistent Christians, whose characters were above reproach and whose lives were largely devoted to the good of the community. William Rouch, an uncle of Mrs. Lawrence, was a soldier under General Wayne in the war against the Indian tribes of Ohio and Indiana, at the close of which he settled near Wooster, in the former state, where he took up a large tract of government land, which he improved and on which the remainder of his life was spent, the old family homestead being still in possession of his descendants. John and Sarah Lawrence had eleven children, all reaching maturity and of whom nine were living in 1907. Three of his sons were soldiers in the Civil war and rendered valiant service for the union. Henry was a member of the Sixteenth Ohio Infantry (see sketch). John F., who joined the One Hundred and Twentieth Ohio Volunteers, on account of inflammatory rheumatism was incapacitated for regimental duty, but was detailed for service at headquarters. (See sketch.) Isaiah also served in an Ohio regiment and is now a physician at Columbia City.

George W. Lawrence was born September 3, 1832, in Wayne county, Ohio, and there spent the years of his childhood and youth, receiving a fair education in such schools as the county afforded. In 1853 he came to Whitley county, and during the winter taught school in Jefferson township, in a small log building of primitive type, equipped with rough, backless benches and heated by a huge fireplace that took up the greater part of one end of the room. March 21. 1854, Mr. Lawrence was married in Ohio to Eva A. Mowrey, born in Wayne county, August 1, 1830, whose parents were natives of Pennsylvania of German and Irish blood respectively. The year following Mr. Lawrence, in partnership with his father, purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land in Whitley county, to which he at once moved his wife, who set up her domestic establishment in a little log cabin that stood in the midst of a twelve-acre clearing. He continued to enlarge the area of tillable land until one hundred acres were in cultivation, meanwhile adding a number of substantial improvements in the way of buildings and fences. To him belongs the credit of being the first man in Whitley county to reclaim land and enhance its productiveness by means of artificial drainage. In due time Mr. Lawrence purchased his father's interest in the farm and from year to year thereafter continued to make additions until his farm contained three hundred acres, all but fifty of which are now under a high state of cultivation. The buildings are modern and of a superior type, the dwelling being handsome and commodious and the bam constructed after the most approved plans. In addition to the farm where he lives Air. Lawrence owns other valuable lands in Whitley county, his holdings at one time amounting to nine hundred and forty acres, but these have been reduced to six hundred and sixty-four acres. These are in three fine farms in Union township. Mr. Lawrence has always been public spirited and a friend and advocate of improvements, by means of which the inter- of the people might best be subserved. He was not only the first man in this part of the state to demonstrate the efficiency and value of artificial drainage, but to him alone is ilue the credit of constructing the first gravel road in Whitley county and of introducing the system of turnpikes. In politics Mr. Lawrence is a Jeffersonian Democrat, believing in the principles of his party and proud of its history, traditions and great men. While well qualified to fill any office within the gift of the people, he has never been an aspirant for public honors, the only office he ever held being that of justice of the peace, to which he was elected in 1807 and in which he served until 1879. Tram 1882 to 1889 he was county commissioner. He was chosen president of the board during his entire service and it was during this time the new courthouse was erected.

Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence have had four children, two of whom. Michael and John C, are farmers of this county. Harvey S. is a Lutheran minister in charge of a church at Springfield, Ohio. One son is dead. Fifty-eight years ago Mr. Lawrence united with the Lutheran church, since which time his life has been that of a faithful, humble disciple of the man of Nazareth. He has held membership with the congregation to which he now belongs for fifty-one years and for a period of thirty years has been an active and zealous worker in the Masonic fraternity, being a thirty-second degree Mason and a member of the consistory of Indianapolis.

Sylvanus H. Mowrey

The subject of this review came from stanch patriotic stock and is well entitled to notice among the representative men of Whitley county. William C. Mowrey, father of Sylvanus, was born October 10, 1828, in Wayne county. Ohio, being the eldest of ten children, whose parents were Michael and Nancy (Rouch) Mowrey, natives respectively of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, and Columbiana county. Ohio, the former born June 6, 1805, the latter April 8, 1808. Michael Mowrey accompanied his parents to Columbiana county when a small boy and there worked in his father's mill and distillery until his twenty-third vear.

when he purchased a farm and engaged in agriculture. Later he exchanged this farm for land in the county of Wayne, where he resided until his death in 1881. William C. Mowrey remained with his parents until attaining his majority and on November 15, 1849, was united in marriage with Mary Ann Lawrence, whose birth occurred in Wayne county, in 1830, being the da tighter of John A. and Sarah (Rouch) Lawrence. Of the children born to William C. and Sarah Mowrey there are living at this time Sylvanus H. ; Emma J., wife of John Deem, living at Warsaw; and John M., of Coesse. William C. and Mary Ann Mowrey moved to Whitley county in 1853 and purchased a quarter section of land in Union township, on which a small log cabin had been erected and about twenty acres of land cleared. Mr. Mowrey developed a fine farm from this land, added to it until he owned four hundred acres and in due time made a number of valuable improvements, until it was recognized as one of the most desirable country homes in the county. He died May 1, 1901, his wife preceding him to the grave in November, 1896.

Sylvanus H. Mowrey was born July 24. 1 85 1, in Wayne county, Ohio, and when two years old was brought to Indiana, since which time he has been an honored resident of the county of Whitley. After finishing his education, he taught one term of school and then turned his attention to agriculture, first as a renter on his father's farm and later purchasel fifty acres of his own, which he improved and on which he lived for eleven years, when he bought the remainder of the original eighty. He later purchased eighty acres adjoining and has since added until his present farm contains three hundred and three acres, lying one mile west of Coesse. He gives personal attention to his farm, keeps it in the finest possible condition and is fully abreast of the times on all matters relating to advanced agricultural methods, in addition to which he has large live stock interests, his breeds of fine cattle, hogs and horses being among the best. July 24. 1873, Mr. Mowrey was united in marriage with Miss Martha E. Jones, who was born in Whitley county, her father. Harvev Jones, a Virginian by birth, being one of the earlv pioneers of this part of Indiana. Her mother. Sarah E. (Ritter) Jones, was a native of Champaign county, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Mowrey have had three children : Elsworth, died in infancy ; William, a farmer in Beaver county. Oklahoma : Lloyd, his father's assistant on the home place and a student in Big College at Fort Wayne. .Mr. Mowrey's fraternal relations are with the Knights of Pythias. He is a member of the Democratic party and the Lutheran church. Mrs. Mowrey is a member of the same church and with her husband takes an active part in all good work under the auspices of the congregation to which thev belone.

Albert Bush

Few of Whitley county's native sons are as widely known and highly esteemed as the gentleman whose name furnishes the caption of this brief review. Distinctively a representative citizen of the community, he has won the respect and confidence of a large circle of friends. An American in all the term implies through his veins also courses the blood of a long line of German ancestors and combined with his other estimable qualities are many of the sterling characteristics for which that sturdy nationality has long been distinguished. His paternal grandfather. George Bush, came to the United States when a young man and finally settled in Stark county, Ohio, where he purchased land and became a prosperous fanner. He married a Miss Miller, born in Pennsylvania, of German parentage, and they spent the remainder of their days on the Stark county farm, both dying a number of years ago. Joseph Bush was a native of Greene county, Ohio, and the second of a family of four. He remained with his father until attaining his majority, when he married Barbara Auer and about one year later removed to DeKalb county, Indiana, where he bought a farm. After a residence of eighteen months in that county he sold and in 1854 became a resident of Whitley, purchasing eighty acres of wild land in Jefferson township, which he proceeded to improve and on which he made his home for forty-nine years. H* invested in other land until he became the owner of three hundred and twenty acres, of which two hundred and Forty were reduced to cultivation, this being "in- of the largest, best improved and most valuable farms in the township. Here Mr. Bush spent the greater part of his life, dying in 1903, at the age of seventy-five. He was a man of ripe intelligence, a Democrat in politics and for many years a consistent member of the Reformed church. His wife, whom he survived twenty-seven years, was identified with the same religious body and her daily life was ever consistent with her faith. Joseph and Barbara Hush were the parents of six children : Amos, deceased in childhood ; Mrs. Sarah Shinbecker, of Jefferson township; Albert; Mrs. Phoebe Shaneline. of Pratt county, Kansas; Wilson, who died at the age of seventeen ; and Minerva, who died in infancy.

Alfred Bush was born April 25, 1858, and received his early training under the wholesome influences of the farm and the district school. He also attended the Columbia City high school and then entered the Northern Indiana Normal University at Valparaiso in 1881. Mr. Bush turned his attention to educational work and for sixteen years taught in the district schools of Whitley county, becoming one of the most popular and efficient teachers of the county. Meantime he purchased a farm in Union township, two miles south of Coesse, on which he spent the interim between terms and finally discontinuing his work in the schoolroom he has devoted his entire time to his farm, meeting with gratifying results. He has added to his original purchase until he now owns two hundred acres, one hundred and twenty being under cultivation, while his improvements in the way of buildings, fencing, etc., are up-to-date in every particular and indicate the supervision of a progressive owner. By a system of tile drainage he has greatly improved his land, which with fertilizing and judicious rotation of crops has added largely to its productiveness. Mr. Bush is a careful student of agricultural science, including improved machinery and advanced methods. He raises abundant crops of all the grains and vegetables gmwn in this section and in addition devotes no little attention to live stock, to which he feeds the greater part of the products of the farm. By careful pruning and judicious spraying he is enabled to secure full crops of selected apples and other fruits, even when orchards not so treated are practically barren.

In 1881 Mr. Bush was united in marriage with Miss Minnie Jeffries, of Whitley count)', and they have one son, Roscoe, a student in the public schools. Mrs. Bush's parents, George and Axie ( Thomas) Jeffries, are among the wealthiest farmers of Jefferson township, where she was born. In his political affiliations Mr. Bush is a Democrat, in religion a Lutheran, and his fraternal relations are represented by the Pythian brotherhood, himself and wife also holding membership with the Pythian sisters. Mr. Bush has been a frequent contributor to various journals and for five years has conducted a Farm Department in the Whitley County News. His services are also in demand at various county farmers' institutes, where he handles practical topics, using his own experience as the basis of argument. He is also president of the Farmers' Mutual Telephone Company, of which he was an incorporator and promoter. He has devoted much time and attention to the natural history of northeastern Indiana, a subject upon which he is considered an authority, and as evidence of his familitary with this line of research, the reader is respectfully referred to his article in this volume on the Flora of Whitlev county.

Louis W. Em Rick

Respected by all who known him. there is no man within the confines of Whitley county who occupies a more enviable position than Louis W. Emrick, not only for the success he has achieved but also by reason of his integrity of character and the straightforward, gentlemanly course he has ever pursued. Mr. Emrick was born February 8, 1854, in Allen county, being the son of Charles and Augusta ( Pater ) Emrick. both of whom came to this county from Germany. They were reared in the fatherland and shortly after their marriage emigrated to the United States, living for some years in New York, where Charles followed his trade of milling. He removed to Detroit, -Michigan, where he was similarly employed until coming to Indiana a few years later. He bought a saw-mill in Allen county and, later owned mills in Fort Wayne and near Coesse. Purshasing a section of fine timber land in Union township, he operated the mill here for many years. In connection with the lumber business he carried on farming and in due time became one of the most successful agriculturists in Union township, with the material advancement of which part of the county his later years were closely interwoven. He died in 1882, at the age of sixty-four years and is remembered as one of the intelligent and progressive German-American citizens to whom the Floosier state is largely indebted for the prosperity which it now enjoys. His widow survived him about twenty years. Their four children are all surviving and of the three sons. Charles F.. Lewis Ward and John G.. live on parts of the old homestead. A sister, Augusta, is the wife of Dr. X. R Wenger. of Fort Wayne.

The education of Louis W. Emrick was obtained in the common schools. When old enough he took a place in his father's mill and it was not long until he became fa- miliar with the lumber business in its every detail. He continued with his father for a number of years and contributed greatly tn the latter's success, having early developed ability as manager of the lumber interests which ultimately came under his control. Mr. Emrick secured a quarter section of timbered land of his father, which he at once proceeded to clear and improve, operating the mill in connection, and which, under his labor, has been developed until it is now classed with the finest farms in the county, one hundred acres being in cultivation, the remainder consisting of wood and pasture. All the improvements are the result of Mr. Emrick's efforts and for his comfortable competence he is indebted to nobody but himself, being in all the term implies the architect of his own fortune. While he has not made the acquisition of wealth the prime object of life, his success in material affairs has been encouraging and he now not only ranks with the financially solid and well-to-do men of his township, but ranks as i 'lie of its representative citizens.

In September, 1876. Mr. Emrick was joined in marriage with Miss Zella A. Ball, of Whitley county, the union resulting in the birth of two children: William Louis, an electrician at Cavena, California, and Lawrence D.. who died in infancy. Mr. Emrick has always manifested a lively interest in public affairs and, being a reader, has decided opinions concerning the great questions upon which men and parties are divided, lie is a stanch Republican on general issues, but in purely local matters not infrequently disregards party ties. Fraternally he belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, holding membership with the lodge in Dunfee.

Among the leading citizens of Union township is Francis E. De Pew, a representative of one of the old and esteemed families of Whitley county and a man whose standing and influence have made him a factor in public affairs. On the paternal side he is descended from French-Irish ancestry, his maternal forerunners being Dutch-Irish, both branches of the family coming to this country in an early day and settling in New Jersey and Pennsylvania respectively. Mr. De Pew's paternal grandfather, Levi De Pew, was born and reared in the former state and later went to Pennsylvania, where he married and became an extensive farmer in connection with which calling he worked for some years at his trade of millwrighting. He was quite successful in his business affairs, accumulated a comfortable fortune and lived to the ripe old age of ninety-two years, his wife dying at the age of eighty-five.

Elijah De Pew was a native of Pennsylvania, where he remained until 1849, when he came to Whitley county, and entered onehundred and twenty acres of land in Columbia township, which he improved and lived on during the ensuing nine years, then disposing of the farm he moved in 1858 to Columbia City, where he made his home until his residence was transferred to Union township two years later. Purchasing a quarter section of land, on which but four acres were cleared, he addressed himself to the task of its improvement and in due time his labors were rewarded by a fine farm, all but ten acres of the tract being reduced to cultivation. Here he spent the remainder of a long and useful life, meeting with abundant success as a tiller of the soil and making his presence felt as an intelligent and public-spirited citizen, dying in February, 1906, at the age of eighty-seven, surviving his wife who died in August, 1878, aged seventy-six.

Elijah De Pew's first wife was Jennette Paige, of New York, who departed this life in 1852, the mother of two children. In 1854 he entered the marriage relation with Rebecca Winger, who bore him three children : Francis E. ; Rachel Ann, deceased wife of John Bixler, of Jonesboro, Indiana; and Isa R, now Mrs. Daniel Harsbarger.

Francis E. De Pew was born in Columbia township, Whitley county, February 5, 1855, and spent his early life on the farm, receiving his education in the district schools and remaining at home until attaining his majority. When twenty-one years old he rented the homestead and continued to cultivate the same until his father's death, meantime purchasing forty acres on which he erected a dwelling and made other improvements in view of ultimately making it his permanent place of residence. Inheriting forty acres of the family estate adjoining his own land he took possession of same after the death of his father and in due time inaugurated many improvements in the way of drainage, fences, buildings, etc. As a farmer Mr. De Pew belongs to the most advanced class, as his success bears ample witness, being progressive in his methods and a critical and enthusiastic student of agricultural science. He has placed himself in comfortable circumstances and with an ample competence for any exigency that may arise he is independent. Mr. De Pew has taken an active interest in public and political affairs and for a number of years has been one of the influential men in the township. In 1904 he received the Democratic nomination for joint representative from ihe counties of Whitley and Kos ciusko. but with the rest of the candidates went down in defeat before the formidable strength of the opposition, although running far ahead of his ticket and carrying much more than the normal party vote. In 1906 he was nominated for county assessor but the landslide proved overwhelming.