Adams Township

Adams Township

In January, 1826, it was ordered by the Board of Justices (or Commis¬ sioners) of Allen County that there be a new township constituted, which is bounded as follows : West, by the line dividing Ranges 12 and 18 ; north, by the contemplated boundary line of Allen County; east, by the State of Ohio; south, by the line dividing Congressional Townships 29 and 30 ; and that the township thus created be known and called by the name of Adams Township.

In May, 1830, the township was reduced to its present limits by the Board, who ordered that Township 30 north, of Range 13 east, constitute Adams Town¬ ship.

Location And Boundary

Adams Township is situated about the central part of Allen County. It is bounded on the north by St. Joseph Township ; east, by Jefferson Township ; south, by Marion Township; west, by Wayne Township, and has an area of 21,953 62-100 acres.

Natural Features

The Maumee River flows through the northern portion of the township, and the Six Mile Creek, which has its source in the southern part, flows northward, joining the Maumee at a point on Section 2.

The soil is of a level character, and composed of a rich loam, very fertile I and well adapted to the cultivation of all varieties of farm products.

The township was originally covered with a heavy growth of timber, among which oak, walnut, poplar, ash, beech, etc., were the prominent varieties; and j thousands of feet of valuable building material fell victims to the axes of the ! pioneers who first located within its limits. The demand which, in later years, sprang up for this kind of timber, made people more discriminating in their destruction of it, and what now remains finds a ready market.

Early Settlement

Jesse Adams, William Caswell, Eliphalet Edmunds, Charles Weeks, Sr., | Charles Weeks, Jr., Martin Weeks, Israel Taylor, Philip Fall, and Capt. Hurst, all settled here in 1823. Mr. Adams came from Rochester, N. Y., and for many years was prominently identified with the history of this township. It was he who gave it its name, not, however, to perpetuate his own, but, according to his own statement, in honor of John Quincy Adams, of whom he was a great admirer. Later in life, Mr. Adams removed to Jefferson Township, where he died in 1S55. William Caswell and Charles Weeks, Sr., removed to the northern part of the county, in 1830, and settled in Perry Township. Henry Cooper came in 1824, and was equally prominent with his associates P the organization and early history of the township. Judge Wolcott also settled, late in 1824. John Rogers came from Preble County, Ohio, in December, 1825. He was then forty years of age, j and brought with him a large family, for whose sake he had sought a home in the Western wilds. They were all dependent upon him for their maintenance, and this fact stimulated him to the most tireless efforts in the preparation of his forest land for cultivation ; and the same is true of all who were associated with him in l -those days. The necessities of their loved ones was the talisman which brought about such glorious results in the redemption of the wilderness, and its transform¬ ation into a rich farming district. Mr. Rogers cleared a farm, upon which he I resided for a period of twenty-five years; then, in 1850, removed to New Haven, i where a home had been made for him by his children. Here, and at Fort Wayne, he passed the remainder of his days. He died September 15,1877. Only five of his children now survive, viz.: Dorcas, the wife of John Brown, of Kendallville, Ind.; Leonard M., now a resident of New Haven; Alanson A., residing at Fort Wayne; Orrin D., editor of the New Haven Palladium , and Helen M., widow of Amasa Bowers. Mr. Rogers filled various local offices during- his life, ^ notably those of Justice of the Peace, Towuship Treasurer, Assessor, and County : Commissioner. Jabez Rogers came with the family of his brother John, in 1825. i He was then an unmarried man, but married Miss Margaret Brown in 1835, and purchased and cleared a farm, upon which he resided until his decease, in 1845. Early in 1S26 came Samuel Brown and John McIntosh, from Montgomery County, Ohio. Both cleared and improved large farms, upon which they resided until death. In 1827, John Blakely, from Shelby County, Ohio, rented the land of Absalom Holcomb, a portion of which he cleared and improved. Several years later, he purchased and moved to a tract of land in the adjoining township of Jef¬ ferson, and finally removed to Noble County, Ind., where he died. He, with Jabez Rogers and Benjamin H. Rogers, was associated with the surveying party who ran the experimental line for the Wabash & Erie Canal, from Fort Wayne. John K. Senseny, Joseph Townsend, David W. and Abraham Miller, Thomas Daniels, John Troutner and Judge Nathan Coleman came to the township in 1827. Thomas Daniels was a bachelor, and a prominent man in the township. He filled the office of Justice of the Peace, as weil as other local offices. Judge Coleman .was also a prominent man, and served as Associate Judge and County | Commissioner. He also filled local offices in the township. In 1837, he removed to Marion Township, where he continued to reside until his decease. Henry Tilbury and Jeremiah Bateman came in 1828. Tilbury came from near Sidney, l

Bateman came from Springfield, Ohio, and purchased two tracts of land, each of which he cleared and improved. During the late war, he sold his prop¬ erty and removed to Iowa, where he subsequently died.

William, John, Thomas and Joseph Smith came, with their respective fami¬ lies, in 1829, and each cleared large farms. William and Thomas subsequently sold their farms, and moved to another locality; but Joseph and Jolm remained in the township until their decease.

After 1829, immigration increased so rapidly that it would be almost impos¬ sible to give a full list of names. Samuel and Evan Lovall, Jacob Miller, James Embry, William Watson and Henry Cushman were prominent among those who came between 1829 and 1832.

Early Events

John S., son of Joliu and Triphena J. Rogers, was the first white child born in the township. He was born October 11, 1825, and died March 31, 1845, at Fort Wayne, where he was engaged at the trade of blacksmith.

The first marriage was solemnized in 1827, by Squire Jesse Adams. The ceremony took place at the house of Samuel Brown, his daughter, Miss Ruth, ahd John McIntosh being the contracting parties.

Two years later (1829), the second nuptial ceremony in the township took place at the house of Joseph Townsend, on Six Mile Creek, when David Miller and Mirs Rachel Townsend were united in marriage.

Henry Cooper sowed the first wheaton the 15th day of November, 1827. The ground was then frozen, and a heavy sleet was falling while he sowed ; yet he reaped a fair harvest in the ensuing summer.

In 1827, Chauncy Charter, of Logansport, Ind., surveye'd the first road through the township. It was surveyed from Fort Wayne to a point just east of New Haven, and was known as the river road. It became a popular thor¬ oughfare, and was subsequently continued as far as Defiance, Ohio.

Reuben Nickerson conducted the first religious services at the house of John Rogers, in 1828, and was followed by Rev, James B. Austin, a circuit preacher of the M. E. Church, who held service at the same house in 1830. Rev. James Holman and Rev. Richard Robinson, both of the M. E. Church, conducted services at the same house in 1831.

The first mill was built by Joseph Townsend in 1828. It was situated on Six Mile Creek, from which stream it received its motive power. It was origi¬ nally intended for a saw-mill, but its proprietor subsequently added the contriv¬ ance known as a " corn-cracker."

A lime-kiln was put in operation in the same year (1828) by John Gerard ; but it failed to produce the anticipated profits, and was abandoned several years later.

In 1832 John Rogers opened the first tavern, at his farm. It was known as the Hoosier Nest, and was very popular. About the same time, Rufus McDougal opened the New York Inn at his farm. The Maumee River was then navigated by pirogues, and there was in operation a stage line from Fort Wayne to Defiance, Ohio, and both taverns were well patronized.

The first physician was Dr. Barnwell, a botanical doctor, who settled in the township about 1837. Dr. Opp, a physiciau of more skill, came in 1828, and gained the practice of the township. Dr. Philip H. Clark came in 1840, and practiced six years ; at the end of that time, he removed to Ashland County, Ohio, where he now resides.

The first election was held at the house of Eliphalet Edmunds, on the second Monday in March, 1826. Henry Cooper was Inspector, by appointment, and the election resulted in the choice of the following officers: Justices of the Peace, Jesse Adams and Cyrus Taber ; Constable, John Rogers; Overseers of the Poor, William Caswell and Eliphalet Edmunds.

The first post office was established in 1837. at the house of Rutus McDonald. At this timfe. the mail was carried on horseback from Defiance, Ohio, by John Omans. Mr. McDonald kept the office until 1842, when he resigned. In that .year, the tfc'abash & Erie Canal was adopted as the mailroute. Henry Burgess was appointed Postmaster, to succeed Mr. McDonald. During his term of service, Mr. Burgess removed the office to New Haven, whereat has since remained. He was succeeded by Benjamin Weber, aud Mr. Weber was succeeded by James S. Ross. After the expiration of his term, liufus McDonald was again appointed, and kept the office until 1856. In March, of that year, L. M. Rogers was appointed, and served until 1866. He then resigned ** and Milton M. Thompson was appointed to fill the vacancy. Mr. Thompson served until 1875, and was then succeeded by the present incumbent, j W Whitaker. The office was originally known as Kendall Post Office; but, after its removal to New Haven, its name was changed to New Haven Post Office.

The Mexican war called a number of the residents of this township to the field of battle. Among the number were John Rogers, Samuel Brown, John Troutner, William Hastings, Isaac"A. Slater. Alfred Miller, Thomas, Edmund and William Cole, George and Charles Thompson and Abraham Miller, Jr.

erected in different parts of the township. The number of buildings was increased each year thereafter, until every school district in the township was supplied. The standard of qualification adopted by the Board of Examiners, resulted in the withdrawal of teachers of inferior ability, and those who were placed in charge of the schools came armed with a certificate from the Board. The school term now covers a period of six months, and the opportunities for acquiring an education are not excelled by the schools of any locality, so far as the essential branches are concerned. The total number of pupils enrolled in the nine district schools is 698.

The burial of the daughter of Jesse Adams, in 1825, consecrated that por¬ tion of his farm, and, in 1828, a second interment was made in the same place - the body being that of Mrs. Thatcher, wife of James Thatcher. From that date this spot was known as the Adams Cemetery, and received many occupants from this and neighboring townships. . ,

In 1830, D. W. Miller gave a portion of his farm tor a public cemetery, and the body of James Townsend was the first interred there. It became the estab¬ lished cemetery of the township, and many of the pioneers now sleep within its precincts. In'later years, its fences were permitted to go to decay, and many of its graves are now sadly neglected, and overgrown with grass and weeds.

" The Odd Fellows' Cemetery. - In 1875, the Independent Order of Odd Fel¬ lows .purchased forty acres of the farm upon which the Miller Cemetery was located ; and all that art could do to beautify the last resting-place of loved re¬ mains, has been done. The cemetery is very tastefully and symmetrically laid out. In the center, a terraced mound' rises to a height of four or five feet, and from this diverge four avenues. The drives are of circular shape, embracing an area of ten acres. A system of drainage has been adopted, and by this means the oraves are kept free from surface water in wet seasons. Evergreens and other appropriate trees add to the scenery, and, through the enterprise of this Order, New Haven possesses a cemetery whose beauty is only surpassed by that at Fort Wavne.

Manly of its present occupants were removed from the older cemeteries of the township and tasteful monuments mark the repose of the following pioneers;

The road from the cemetery to the New Haven pike has been recently graded and graveled, at the expense of the Order, and thus the main approach is accessible at all times.

From the first settlement of Adams Township, until 1854, its school history is like that of many other localities in Indiana. The season of farm work pre¬ cluded the possibility of maintaining school at that time of the year, but, as win¬ ter approached, and farm duties grew less urgent, the idea of a winter school was entertained by the residents, and each subscribed a certain amount for the school fund of that year. Usually, a stranger made his appearance in the settlement, recommending himself as a teacher. He was engaged for the term, and some¬ times the services ot' a good teacher were thus secured, and a course of instruc¬ tion given which was of vast benefit to the scholars. At other times, the teacher proved to be of inferior attainments, and the winter school was scarcely more than a farce. There was no educational standard for teachers, and they were not even provided with a license to teach.

Thus, for many years, the township schools were virtually at the mercy of adventurers. In 1829, the first schoolhouse was erected. It was a log building, and stood on the farm of Absalom Holcomb. Jared Bobo, the first teacher, was a man of fine acquirements, and conducted what was unanimously pronounced "a good school," but his services could not be secured for more than one term.

The same system of - subscription schools" remained in vogue until 1854, with their alternate successes and failures. The public-school system was then being generally adopted, and L. M. Rogers, Charles H. Smith and Rolan Hull, Trustees, called an election for the purpose of voting the necessary school tax. A violent opposition was manifested, and the proposition defeated. The Trustees were then advised by the State Superintendent to call another election for the same purpose, and to do so repeatedly, if necessary, assuring them that their cause would gain an increased number of votes each time. Each Trustee then took a portion of the township, which he canvassed thoroughly, and, when they thought the question had been placed before the people in its proper light, another election was held, and the result was a victory For the free schools

The first free-school building was erected in the year 1854, on the farm known as Elm Park," and in the same year the school at New Haven was con¬ verted into a free school. Late in the fall of that year, two other buildings were

'Trinity Evangelical Church - Lutheran. - In 1853, twenty-two members of St. Paul's Evangelical Church, at Fort Wayne, withdrew, and organized Trinity congregation. They were all residents of Adams Township, and the difficulty attending their journeys to church at this city, led to the organization of a church nearer home. They were assisted in their efforts by the parent Church, and were enabled in the same year (1853) to erect a neat frame house of worship on the Piqua road, at an expense of §1,500. Rev. Frederick Dietz was the first Pastor, and acted in that relation for a term of two years. His successor, Rev. George Streckfusz, also remained two years, after which Rev. Andrew A. Zagel became 1 Pastor, which position lie still occupies. The Church now has sixty-five members. The day school, which is under charge of the Pastor, has an attendance of sixty - scholars.

St. Emanuel Church ( New Haven). - On the 7th day of November, 1858, nine members of this denomination met at the house of George Foster, in New Haven, and, under the ministerial offices of Rev. A. Hcrtzberger, organized St. Emanuel Lutheran Church. Until 1859, the services of the Church were con¬ ducted at private houses; but in that jear they erected a frame house of worship, 24x36 feet, at a cost of §900. This, 'with some renovations from time to time, has served as a church ever since. Rev. Hertzberger was the first Pastor, and remained two years. He was succeeded by Rev. E. E. Bode, and Mr. Bode was succeeded by Rev. Joseph Lehner, the present Pastor. In 1868 or 1869, a Sundayschool was inaugurated, and has been successfully maintained ever since. It now has an attendance of fifty-four scholars. Rev. Joseph Lehner is the present Superintendent.

St. John's Church - Catholic. - Early in 1858, Rev. Father Botti held services at the house of N. Schuekmann, which were attended by ten families of the Catholic faith. At this meeting, the first steps toward an organization were adopted, and, a few days later, Mr. Schuekmann prepared a room in his house where services might be held thereafter. Once a month, Father Botti, or some other minister of the Church, visited the congregation in a pastoral capacity. In 1859, the congregation purchased a lot in the town of New Haven, upon which they erected a brick church, at a cost of §4,000. In this house they worshiped until 1876; then the funds on hand were devoted to the purpose for which they had been collected, and the erection of the present handsome brick church was commenced. This edifice is 56x136 feet, and cost §16,000. It is one of the finest churches in the county. It was completed and dedicated in November, 1877, and now has a membership of 120 families. Rev. B. Wiedow is the pres¬ ent Pastor. Connected with the Church are the following societies: St. John's Society, with 72 members ; St. Joseph's Society, 54 members ; St. Mary's Society, 90 members; St, Ann's Society, Young Ladies' Sodality, and Boys' Sodality, all with large memberships.

St, John's School was inaugurated in 1864, by Rev. J. W. Giedle, then Pastor of the Church ; and in the same year a schoolhouse, 20x30 feet, was erected, having but one schoolroom, and being conducted by a male teacher. In 1872, the present handsome school building was erected. The main building is 40x56 feet, two stories and basement, with an L. The teachers are Sisters of the Order of St, Agnes. Here the Church offers to her children an education equal to that which may be acquired at our public schools, combined with instruction in the religion of the Church. The school term begins with the first week in September, and closes in June - a period of ten months. The number of scholars now in attendance is 120.

Methodist Episcopal .* - On the 7th day of July, 1861, Rev. E. W. Erick, of Massilon Circuit, organized the first Methodist Episcopal Class in New Haven, with five members, viz., Rev. Trew Pattee, Lorenzo Pattee and wife, Mrs. Sarah Pattee, aud Miss Emily Tinkham ; Rev. Trew Partee was appointed Class-Leader.

In 1862, Rev. J. W. Miller succeeded Rev. E. W. Erick on the Massilon charge. After preaching for three or four months, the latter abandoned the Class, without assigning any reasons for so doing, and the Church was left without preaching for the balance of that conference year ; but they continued their meet¬ ings without a pastor until the conference of 1863, when New Haven Class was attached to Harlan Circuit, under the ministry of Rev. Thomas Colclazer, assisted by Rev. Andrew Hollopeter. At the conference of 1865, this became the head of an independent charge, known as New Haven Mission, with an appropriation of §125. The mission consisted of New Haven and Bowers' Chapel; Rev. Walter E. Curtis was placed in charge, and preached at New Haven every Sabbath.

Meanwhile the class was strengthened by an increase of members ; Mrs. Catha¬ rine Burgess was the first to join on probation, and was soon followed by her husband, Henry, as well as others from among the neighbors. But the society was yet without a house of its own in which to worship, and through the kind¬ ness of the Methodist Protestant Society, were permitted to use their house until 1866, when Henry Burgess resolved to erect a house for the Lord, in which His people might worship Him. Agreeably with this resolve, a neat brick structure was begun, and in due time completed, and presented to the proper officers. It was dedicated on Sunday, the 24th day of February, 1867. The dedicatory sermon was preached by Rev. R. D. Robinson, from Isaiah, ii, 2. The dedica¬ tory services were followed by a series of meetings, which resulted in a few acces¬ sions to the Church.

Rev. W. E. Curtis remained in charge of the Church until the Conference of 1867, when he was succeeded by Rev. C. W. Lynch, who remained one year, in the early part of which he inaugurated the Sunday school.

In 1868, Rev. P. Carland was appointed to take charge, but failed to report for duty, so that year preaching was kept up by supplies, among whom were Rev. Armstrong and Rev. John P. Jones.

In 1869, under the ministration of Rev. N. D. Shackleford, two additional appointments were brought into the charge - Milan Center and Garr Creek. Mr. Shackleford remained two and one-half years ; was transferred to Southern Illi¬ nois Conference, and Rev. M. II. Mott appointed to fill his unexpired term.

In 1872, Rev. W. E. Curtis was again appointed ; he remained one year, and was succeeded in 1873 by Rev. John P. Nash. The entire number of mem¬ bers at this time was - full members, 109 ; probationers, 25; total, 134, an increase of 129 in seven years.

In 1874, Rev. L. Roberts succeeded to the charge of New Haven and cir¬ cuit. He remained one year, and was succeeded by Rev. 0. S. Harrison, who remained three years; his successor was Rev. John W. Lowry, the present Pastor.

Universalist. - In April, 1865. a meeting was held at the house of H. W. Loveland, for the purpose of organizing the First Universalist Church of New Haven. In this matter the ladies were the prime movers, and took the most prominent part. The officers elected were Mrs. Col. Whitaker. President; Mrs. Nancy McDonald, Vice President; Mrs. Jane Phelps, Treasurer; Mrs. 0. D. Rogers, Secretary. No Pastor was engaged, and meetings were held only at such times as the services of a minister could be secured by special engagement. The first sermon was preached by J. Merrifield, and for two years he officiated in a pastoral relation. Among others who conducted services for this society, were Rev. Spooner, Rev. W. J. Chaplin and Rev. J. P. Chaplin. Recently, services have been conducted at intervals by Rev. M. Crosley, of Fort Wayne. In 1878, the society purchased a lot in the town of New Haven, on which it is proposed to erect a house of worship. Since the organization, however, meetings have been held at the houses of its several members.

The Town Of New Haven

The land upon which the original plat of New Haven is located was entered by a Mr. Gundy, who deadened the timber preparatory to clearing the land. It was known for many years as " Gundy's Deadening." Gundy sold the land to Hon. Samuel Hanna, of Fort Wayne, who, in turn, sold it to Eben Burgess. The latter sold it to his son, Henry, who divided it into town lots, and gave it the name of New Haven. It was recorded in June, 1839.

The first store in the village was kept by Henry Burgess, on the north side of the Wabash & Erie Canal, and Elias Shafer opened a hotel about the same time, near Mr. B.'s store. The Wabash & Erie Canal had then bten in opera¬ tion several years, and Mr. Burgess saw the advantages which would accrue to a town established at such a favorable point. His sagacity was not at fault, and, unlike the majority of that class of villages denominated "canal towns," New Haven has never lost its busy air; for what was detracted therefrom by the decline of canal traffic, has been more than restored by the railroad.

Incorporation

In June, 1866, John Begue and others presented to the Commissioners of Allen County a petition, accompanied by a map, affidavits, etc., praying for the incorporation of the town of New Haven.

On the 7tli day of July, 1866, an election was held at New Haven, to decide whether the majority of its citizens were in favor of having it incorporated as a town. The election resulted favorably with the proposition, and was then declared by the Board to be an incorporated town.

In December, 1867, New Haven was made a voting-precinct, in response to a petition presented by Allen FI. Dougall and others, which stated that their voting-place was then inconveniently located, "and praying that the corporate limits of New Haven be established as a voting-precinct."

This incorporation has given to New Haven the benefit of a town govern¬ ment, and the cleanliness of its streets, and the beauty of its residences, stamped it upon the memory of all visitors as a worthy representative of the prosperous Indiana town. The following is a list of its principal business men:

Local Industries

Maumee Valley Flouring- Mill. - In 1864, L.M. Rogers, John BegueandLevi Hartzell began the erection of this mill, and completed it in March, 1865. The main building is 36x48 feet, three stories, with a basement. The engine-room is 20x48 feet. The mill has three runs ofbuhrs, with a manufacturing capacity of one hundred barrels of flour per day. The original cost of the building was $14,000. Rogers, Begue & Hartzell continued as its proprietors for three years, when a change was made in the firm ; Mr. Rogers sold his interest to Amasa Powers, and shortly thereafter, Mr. Powers sold to Louis Lepper ; Charles Lepper then purchased the interest of John Begue, and the Lepper Brothers then rented the interest of Levi Hartzell. It was then conducted under the firm name of Lepper Brothers, and continued so until 1871. On a certain day, in that year, the engineer permitted the water to run daugerously low in the boiler, and a terrific explosion took place. Both proprietors and the engineer were killed, and the miller, and two boys who were in the upper portion of the building, were badly, though not fatally, injured. The building was ruined, and remained in that condition three years. In 1874, it was purchased by the present proprietors, Joseph Brudi & Co., by whom it was repaired, and has since been successfully operated.

New Haven Flouring- Mill. - This building was erected in 1856, by Amasa Powers, Volney Powers and John A. Powers, and by them conducted for several years under the firm name of Powers Brothers. In 1867, Amasa Powers withdrew, and became indentified with the Maumee Valley Mill, and was succeeded by his brothers, Johu A. and Volney, who still operated the mill under the old name of Power Brothers. Subsequently, Allan H. Dougall purchased the interest of John A. Powers, and the firm name was changed to Powers & Dougall. About a year later, Mr. Dougall sold his interest to Volney Powers, who then became sole proprietor. A short time subsequently, Volney Powers sold one-half of his interest to Charles Stapleford. The latter failed to comply with the terms of sale, when the entire interest reverted to Mr. Powers, by whose heirs the mill is now owned. The main building is 40x50 feet, three stories and basement, with an engine-room 16x50 feet, divided from the main building by a brick wall. The mill, which is now operated by William Knox, has a manufact¬ uring capacity of seventy-five barrels of flour per day.

Planing- Mill. - In 1863, Gustaf Gothe and Carl Brudi erected a frame mill at the east end of New Haven, and supplied it with the necessary machinery for conducting a planing-mill, consisting of two planers, with a full complement of lathes and saws.

Stave- Factory. - In 1864, B. Schnelker and J. E. McKcndry erected a building near the Wabash Railway at New Haven, which they furnished with a complete set of stave machinery. In 1869, Mr. McKendry disposed of his interest in the establishment, when a company was formed, consisting of B. Schnel¬ ker, H. Schnelker, John B. Beugenot, Anthony Beugenot and Johu Begue, by whom it was operated under the firm name of Schnelker, Beugenot & Co., until January, 1874, when John Begue retired from the firm.

In May! 1S78, H. Schnelker and Mrs. B. Schnelker purchased the interests of the other partners, since which time the business has been conducted under the firm name of H. Schnelker & Co.

The machinery consists of six saws, one stave-cutter, heading circular, planer, jointer, etc. The firm employ ninety-five operatives, and use annually 12,000 cords of wood, all of which is made into staves, and sold at Quincy, HI., St. Louis and Hannibal, Mo., and other markets.

The New Haven11 Palladium." - The first copy of this paper was issued October 25, 1872. It is a seven column-paper, and in polities it is independent, but not neutral.

It was founded by Thos. J. Foster, who continued as its editor and proprietor until June 5, 1879, when it was purchased by Orrin D. Rogers, by whom it is now conducted. It is ably edited, and presents a commendable amount of news weekly.

New Haven Graded School

In 1858, the Trustees of Adams Township erected the present building, which then contained but two rooms, and was conducted as a district school, without grades. After the incorporation of New Haven, this became town property, and two rooms were at once added to the building. .

In December, 1866, Dr. James Anderson was employed as Principal, with authority to grade the school and employ his assistants. There is do record of teachers for that year or the two succeeding years. The school record begins with the term commencing in September, 18(59. From that time to the present, a complete roster of teachers and members of the Town Board of Education will be given. The first Board (1866) was constituted by L. M. Rogers, C. E. Bryant and John Begue. The balance are as follows: ,

Teachers for 1876. - T. J. Newman, Principal; Miss Maggie A. Tower, Intermediate; Miss Fiances Culver, Primary, t Mr. Newman resigned before the close of the term, and was succeeded by J. P. Sharkey.)

Teachers for 1879. - James A Kibbe, Principal; Miss Victoria A. Harper, Intermediate; Miss M. A. Tower, Primary. (Miss Tower resigned, and was succeeded by Miss McNair. )

Tmpcrancee. - In 1843, a Temperance Society was organized at New Haven, | with more than one hundred members. It was not a secret society, but a union | of young men and ladies, banded together under a pledge, to abstain from intoxi- j eating drink, and to encourage and persuade others to do so. The first officers | were: L. M. Rogers, President: James St. John, Vice President; Dr. P. H. Secretary; Benjamin St. John. Treasurer. The society was not connected with religion, and from this fact grew a damaging amount of opposition from the churches^ whose leaders openly denounced it, however commendable its object, or however successful its results. Through its instrumentality a number of reforms were effected, but the outside pressure was more than it could bear, and within a few years it was disorganized and ceased to exist.

Ncieman Lodge , No. SI 6, .4 , F. J- A. J/., was instituted February 3, 1868. by W. H. Newman, acting D. G. M., and worked under dispensation until May of the same year, when a charter was granted by the Grand Lodge. The following were the charter members : James Savage, Allen H. Dougall, L. M. Rogers, J. E. Taylor, A. J. Williamson, L. S. Null, Levi Reynolds, A. Rey¬ nolds, Henry Burgess, S. W. Critchlow, William Dougall, A. R, Linden, G. W. Linden. C. A. Zollinger, Silas Work.

The first officers were: James Savage, W. M.; Allen H. Dougall, S. W.; L. S. Null, J. W.; John A. MeKendry, Treasurer; L. M. Rogers, Secretary; James Critchlow, S. I).; J. E. Taylor, J. D.; A. J. Williamson, Tiler.

The following is a list of officers from that date to the present: 1869 - Allen H. Dougall, W. M.; A. J. Williamson, S. W.; J. W. Whitaker, J. W.; George W. Bell, Treasurer ; J. H. Anderson, Secretary. 1870 - Allen H. Dougall, W. M.; J. W. Whitaker, S. W.; John Brooks, J. W.; S. A. Thompson, Treasurer ; Eugene Whitaker, Secretary. 1871 - Allen H. Dougall, W. M.; John Brooks,

The above-named officers, elected December 9, 1878, for a term of one }rear, still occupy their respective stations. The next election will be held in Decem¬ ber, 1879.

The Lodge is now in good working order, having twenty-seven members in good standing. Its assets are §300. Its meetings are held iu the neatly furn¬ ished lodge-rooms, and are generally well attended.

On the evening of organization, nine persons were admitted by card, viz.. Henry Burgess, William Sugart, H. B. Bartholomew, John Begue, E. II. Phelps, E. W. Green, H. G. Dawkins, Charles A. Zollinger and James Nuttles ; and to complete the organization, the degrees were conferred upon J. W. Whitaker, John Begue, Henry Burgess, William Sugart, H. G. Dawkins and E. W. Green, after which the following persons were received into the Lodge by initiation : W. S. Bell, P. S. Beugnot, W. M. Bell, J. L. Bryant, C. E. Bryant, L. S. Null, R. D. Nuttle, G. W. Bentley and G. W. Bell.

The Lodge received its charter May 16, 1876. The first meeting was held in the third story of Burgess' Block, which is still occupied as the Lodge

In this Lodge 117 persons have, at various times, been initiated, and 29 united by card ; making a total of 146. Fourteen members have died, and fiftytwo have withdrawn to unite with, or organize, other lodges; and from these causes th^ present membership of New Haven Lodge is reduced to eighty.

The following is a list of the Noble Grands of this Lodge, from its organiza¬ tion to the present time (1879) : L. M. Rogers, Alanson Whitney, J. W. Whit¬ aker, Henry Burgess, E. W. Green. C. A. Zollinger, William McIntosh, L. S. Null. William Sugart, H. G. Dawkins, R. S. Knode, Volney Powers, W. S. Rogers, L. M. Rogers (re-elected), G. W. Bell, M. M. Thompson, E. S. McDon¬ ald, Joseph Stark, Thomas Meads, John Nail, Jacob Butler, O. S. Harrison, John Barrow, John Dawkins, W. S. Bell.

Since the organization of the Lodge, ninety brethren have been relieved - the - amount paid for such relief being SI, 331. 65 ; for burial of the dead, 8465 ; for relief of Odd Fellows' widows, 8120.

Scarcely any Lodge within the jurisdiction of Indiana has enjoyed more uninterrupted prosperity than this. Its officers and members are all fully awake to their duties as Odd Fellows, and all manifest a lively interest in the good of the Order.

Aboit is situated in the western part of Allen County, and comprises Town¬ ship 30 north, of Range 11 east. These boundaries were established by the Board of County Commissioners, at the May session, 1836, and in March, 1843, it was ordered " that so much of Aboit Township as lies south of Little River, be attached to the township of Pleasaut." Aboit is bounded on the north by Lake Township, east by Wayne Township, south by Pleasant Township, west by Whit¬ ley County, and contains 34.55 square miles.

Streams And Water-Courses

Aboit River - the principal stream - flows through the township from north to south, joining Little River near Aboit Station, on the Wabash Railway. Little River - a tributary to the Wabash - waters the southeastern part of the township. Bullard's Run is a small brook which has its source in a series of springs, and, flowing in a southerly direction, joins Little River at the point of Section 25. There are other small streams to which no names have been assigned.

The name "Aboit" is evidently a corruption of the name originally given to the creek by the French. On the bank of this creek, in 1780, a battle took place between the Indiaasaad the French forces, led by Col. La Balm. The lat¬ ter were overwhelmed and slaughtered, and from this circumstance the place was called " Abattoir," the " slaughter-house."

Surface And Soil

The surface is of that undulating character so pleasing to the eye and so grati¬ fying to the agriculturist, as it dispenses with a tedious and expensive system of drainage so often necessary in lowlands. From the nature of the land, all surplus water finds its way to the creeks, and from them to the rivers, and the soil is always in a tillable condiiion. It is composed chiefly of a rich black loam, with a substratum of clay. It produces excellent qualities of wheat, fruit, and all varieties of products, which, in this latitude, reward the farmer for his toil.

There is nothing approaching the nature of a prairie, and every acre of farming land has been redeemed from a wilderness. Among the timber which originally covered the township, was maple, linn, buckeye, beech, walnut and oak. Of the latter, there are many thousands of feet still standing, and oak is the pre¬ vailing timber as an article of commerce.

On the 24th d^y of September, 1833, Enoch Turner, Richard Andrew, William E. Gouty and Richard Clark, with their families (making a total of about thirty souls), came to the township to inaugurate the work of the pioneer. All were natives of Maryland, and settled near each other, thus forming a neigh¬ borhood, which, in later years, came to be known among those who came after them, as "the Maryland Settlement." Of these first adventurers in the wilds of Aboit, Enoch Turner alone now survives. He still lives on the farm upon which he settled nearly a half-century ago. He was a strong man and pos¬ sessed of great courage, and set about his work with an energy which only those in the same position can exercise, and what is true of him is equally true of his associates. All seemed to have been actuated by the injunction, "Make hay while the sun shines," only paraphrased into " Make a farm while you are young, for the days will come when your failing strength must look to the savings of these days for its reward - its support for the remainder of life." With this motto in view they worked, and in the enjoyment of the competence thus hon¬ estly earned, the only survivor of that community now lives, honored and esteemed by all.

Jesse Vermilyea settled in the township in the same year. It would be only a repetition to portray his characteristics, for the pioneers were alike in all essential particulars. Industry, economy and. hard work made up the daily routine of their existence, and when these traits are mentioned as belonging to an individual, they may be applied collectively to all his associates, for those who failed to possess them soon found their neighbors surpassing them, saw the fer¬ tility of their farms enhanced, their clearings increase, and their prosperity grow in a ratio commensurate with their industry, while their own remained almost as they had entered them, and the days spent in idleness, in hunting and fishing came back like specters to haunt them, and like drones in the hive they were driven out by the working bees and returned to the places from which they came, or else, with a good lesson in miud, sought newer localities where they could begin with beginners and keep pace with the march of improvement. Jesse Vermilyea was a prominent man in the township, and took an active part in its development and improvement. He was of a kind, social disposition, and gained friends who clung to him duriug life.

Lot S. Bayless and Benjamin Rogers were the next settlers ; tney came early in 1834, and both cleared large farms. Mr. Rogers remained in the township until his decease. Mr. Bayless subsequently removed to Dakota Territory, where he now resides.

William Hamilton, a native of New York, came in the spring of 1835, and purchased a tract of land, to which he removed his family in the ensuing fall. He remained in the township until death, and bequeathed to his heirs a fine estate and a munificent fortune.

George Bullard, a native of St. Lawrence County, N. Y., came in Nov¬ ember, 1835. He brought his family overland in a wagon, but sent his house¬ hold goods by other parties to Perrysburg, Ohio, whence they were conveyed in pirogues to their destination. He purchased 240 acres on Section 13, which he cleared almost without assistance. Me planted a small field of corn in the spring of 1836. and reaped it in the following fall ; but he was here two years before he reaped a crop of wheat. He has growu with the township, and his prosperity has increased with its prosperity. He is now the possessor of one of the finest farms in the township, and is regarded as one of its substantial farmers. His labor has returned him a rich reward, and in the declining years of his life he enjoys a fortuue well earned, and the respect and confidence of his fellow-men. He was early elected Justice of the Peace, and served in that capacity for twenty-six years.

Raburn Beeson, a native of Greene Couuty, Ohio, is among the early settlers of this township. He came to Allen County with his parents in March, 1826, and worked on the farm of his father, Richard Beeson, in Wayne Township, until 1839. In that year, he purchased a tract of land in Aboit Township, upon which he located shortly after. This he cleared and improved, and, at a later date, traded it for another farm. He traded farms with his neighbors at various times, but finally located permanently on the farm upon which he now resides. He has always been an industrious man, and is highly esteemed bjfchis nm^hbors.

The first hewed-log house was begun by George Bullard in the spring of 1836. He fell ill during its construction, and the work stepped; but he com¬ pleted it immediately after his recovery. It was plastered inside, and was subse¬ quently weather-boarded, making it a very substantial house, and a very preten¬ tious one for that time. It occupied the site of his present residence.

The first brick house was erected by Jesse Vermilyea in 1839. The mate¬ rial for its construction was manufactured by him from the clay on his farm.

In the same year (1837), the first school was taught in a cabin on the farm of George Bullard. It was a subscription school, aud Mr. Bullard donated the stove and boarded the teacher.

The first religious meeting was held at the house of Richard Andrew in 1834, by Rev. James Holman, of the M. E. Church. Mr. Andrew's house was the regular place of meetiug until a short time prior to his death, when the meetings were removed to a log schoolhouse, then recently erected to the vicinity.

At his house a class "was organized, under the auspices of this denomination, in -1836; this was the first religious organization iu the township. There were twelve members; Rev. Stephen R. Ball was the minister in charge. of the circuit to which the class belouged, and services were conducted once in four weeks. In 1842, they erected a log building, to serve the double purpose of a church and schoolhouse. The ground was donated by Enoch Turner, on whose farm the building was erected. They have maintained their organization, but have never employed a permanent pastor. Meetings are now held in the schoolhouse, on Section 22, one Sunday in each month.

Jesse Vermilyea kept a small stock of merchandise (the first in the township) with which he carried on a limited trade with the Indians. He did not, however, open a store, and there is not now a store in the township.

In 1848, Lot S. Bayless erected the first saw-mill in the township. It was built on the Aboit River, and received its motive power from that stream. Five years later, William Hamilton erected a saw-mill on the same stream.

The first white child born in the township was a son of Jesse Vermilyea; he was born in the spring of 1833, and died in the fall of the same year.

Martin Kelley and Miss Mary Andrew were married at the home of the bride's parents in December, 1834. This was the first wedding in the township, and was solemnized by Rev. James Holman. All the parties in the ceremony are now deceased.

The first cemetery was donated by Enoch Turner iu 1834, and the space allotted for interment is now nearly all occupied. The first corpse here interred was that of a young Irish boy, who had been adopted into th$ family of Jesse Vermilyea. His father was a dissipated man, and frequently remained away from home for weeks at a time in his drunken carouses. During such a spree, bis wife died, neglected, and in the depths of misery. Jesse Vermilyea immediately took the boy into his own family, where he found a good home, but died young.

Aboit Post Office was established in 1839, at the house of Jesse Vermilyea, who was appointed Postmaster, and held the position for a number of years. At one time it was abolished, but subsequently re-established, and is now kept at the house of Mr. Stouter.

The first election was held at the house of Richard Andrews in 1836. Richard Andrews and Samuel Dunlap were elected Justices of the Peace. In 1849, Levi Moore donated a lot from his farm upon which to erect a church - stipulating that it should be a union church, and open to all denominations ; that it should be finished, fenced in, and kept in repair ; and unless these pro¬ visions were complied with, the lot would revert to the owner of the farm. After a few years, the property passed into the hands of Mr. Scott, its present propri¬ etor. The building was never finished, and the agreement was violated by this fact ; but meetings were held at intervals by the various denominations, and Mr. Scott refused to reclaim the ground. During the war of the rebellion, some of the ministers insisted upon delivering political sermons, and enunciating their own principles from the pulpit. The congregations were divided as to their sympa¬ thies with the contending armies, withdrew, and refused their support to the church. It grew weaker, and was finally abandoned, and is now in a neglected and unsafe condition.

Conclusion

From a record of past events we pass to a contemplation of the present. Aboit has taken her place as as one of the foremost townships of the county ; the forests of earlier years have disappeared, and rich farms are cultivated on lands formerly covered with thickets, which would have discouraged any but the men who first began the work of improvement witliiu its limits. What they left unfinished at their death their descendants hawe nobly carried out, and the char¬ acteristics of their fathers fell to them as a part of their inheritance. Energy and industry are not less marked in the sons than in the fathers, though under different circumstances. They have not the same obstacles to contend with, and their labor meets with a more speedy recompense.

While excelling as an agricultural district, Aboit has acquired some dis¬ tinction as a live-stock market, and much care has been bestowed by some of its citizens upon the propagation of a fine breed of cattle, hogs and sheep. Among the citizens engaged in this enterprise are Messrs. Growcock, W. J. Esterline, J. N. Corey, D. Russean, W. A. Hamilton, W. A. Kelsey, D. Swineheart, A. H. Bates and 1. N. Corey, all of whom exhibited fine specimens of stock at the last agricultural fair.

David Swineheart

Daniel and Margaret (Keen) Swineheart, both natives of Center Co., Penn., were early settlers of Stark County, Ohio, and there their son David (the subject of this sketch) was born in the year 1823. Attaining the age of twenty-five, he came to Allen County, where, two years later (1850), in Aboit Township, he married Miss Catherine Ann Crouse, daughter of Barney Crouse, of Somerset County, Penn. They are the parents of eight children, in order of age as follows - Henry, born in 1851, married Miss Lizzie Robertson, and resides in Whitley County, this State; Melissa Jane, born in 1854, married Thomas Kline, and they, too, reside in Whitley County ; James B., born in 1856, married Miss Mary Cephle, and lives in the " old house " at home; Christene R., born in 1S58 ; Armadilla Seville (deceased), born in 1860; La Fayette, born in 1862; Sherman, born in 1865 ; and David Allen, born in 1868, all of whom reside at home except those living in Whitley County and the one deceased.

In religion, Mr. Swineheart inclines to the Lutheran faith. In politics, a Democrat. Though not a seeker of public trusts, he has been called to fill - with credit to himself - soflue of the offices of his township. Toward public enter¬ prises beneficial to his community, he has tendered a liberal hand. Yet, withal, lie has looked well to his own prosperity and success. Always frank, and always hospitable to friend and stranger, a kind husband and father, he and his worthy lady enjoy the respect and esteem of all who know them.

New Haven Dealer in Groceries and Provisions. Haven Manufacturer of Staves aud Heading Manufacturer of Staves and Heading. Dir. in Harness Repair'g and Job Work Minister Lutheran Church.