Bourbon Township

Bourbon Township

HIS township was organized January 6, 1$40), Prior to that time, it was a part of Center Township. In addition tothe territory now embraced within its boundaries, it contained what is now Tippecanoe Township. Its dimensions at that time were seven miles wide by fourteen in length. March 9, 1842, it was divided in the center east and west,and the southern half took the name of Tippecanoe Township. Bourbon Township is now seven miles sqnare, and contains about 31,460 aeres of land, of whieh probably 20,000 acres are under cultivation. The petitioners for the organization of Bourbon 'Township were James O. Parks, Grayson

Prior to the completion of the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chi eago Railroad, in 1856, which passes diagonally through the southern portion of the township, the land was mostly covered with a thiek growth of oak, poplar, walnut and other timber, Upon the completion of the railroad, saw-mills sprang up all over the territory, and, until the last few years, the amount of lumber manufactured and shipped from that section was something marvelons. Over one thousand car loads were shipped each year in 1864, 1S, 1866 and 1867, and half that many for several years before and since that time. The slaughter of the timber during these years was like the mowing down of an army in a terrific battle. But, as the timber disappeared, farms were opened, houses and barns were erected, and the places that a few years ago were a wilderness of timber and undergrowth are now some of the finest cultivated fields in the county. There is no better farming land anywhere than is fond inthis township, The growth of all kinds of grain, vegetables and fruit is fully, if not more, than the average. This township stands first inblooded stock of all kinds, and each year shows marked improvements,

Res. oF W.u. & | ' W. J. ACKER & SON. : ARNER OF EAST MAIN & RICHMOND STS. BOURBON, /ND. RE & AGRICULTURALIMPLEMENTS COR. MAIN & CENTER STS. BOURBON IND.

William J. Acker

N. Y. He was reared on a farm, and until seventeen years of age was engaged in the usual routine of farm labor, attending school in the winter. At the age of seventeen, he left home and accepted employment on the Albany & Boston Railroad, finally attaining the position of Superintendent of a section. The financial crisis of 1857 caused a general reduction of wages, to which he refused to submit, and this action was the first step in a course which finally made him a citizen or Marshall County. Having relinquished his position on the railroad, he decided to visit the West in quest of a satisfactory location, believing that he could earn better wages. He went first to Iowa, thence to Illinois, and afterward located at Fort Wayne, Ind. In May, 1858, he removed to Bourbon, in Marshall County, and was employed on the railroad until October of that year. Associated with F. P. Morgan, he then engaged in the lumber trade, operating a saw-mill at Bourbon, and has ever since continued in this line of business. In the fall of 1866, associated with Jacob Slough, he erected the saw-mill of which he is now the proprietor, having purchased the interest of his partner, after the death of the latter, in 1878. In June, 1879, he purchased the hardware establishment of Arnold & Tescher, at Bourbon, and associated his son with him as the junior member of the firm, still continuing his

It was a rule of his early life to always save a portion of his earnings, and from this fact has grown the prosperity that has. crowned his later years. He is a competent business man, a good manager, and has fought his way to success against trying obstacles. He is well and favorably known throughout this county, and possesses the confidence of all who know him. His business transactions have always been governed by a high sense of honor, and he has never taken an unfair advantage in trade. By a course of economy and close attention to business, he has accumulated a competence, and with it the good will of those with whom he has had dealings. He is a public spirited man, and has always been ready to help enterprises designed for the public good. In the cause of temperance he has been especially active, and has been prominently identified with the various temperance movements. He is a member of the Odd Fellows fraternity and the Presbyterian Church, and unites the ability of the successful business man with virtues of the Christian gentleman. On the 15th of August, 1861, he was united in marriage with Miss Mercia A., daughter of John Z. Grant, Esq., a highly respected citizen of this county. They are the parents of four children, viz., Frank Ellsworth, Charles Ernest, Ottis Edwin and Grace Edna.

The North and South Branches of Yellow River unite in the s northwest corner of the township and form Yellow River proper. In the " bottoms" of the South Branch, a distance of about two miles is low, flat land. and, during wet seasons, the land in this region is overflowed and rendered unfit for farming purposes. It is valuable for meadow and grazing purposes, and, with the system of ditches and underdraining recently inaugurated, this

It has eighteen public school buildings - the largest numberof any township in the county except Center. Three of the bnildings are brick,and the remainder frame. Their value is stated to of $4,800. The total enrollment of pupils for 1878-79 was 851, and thirty-seven teachers were employed during the year. In the town of Bourbon there are two school buildings, one of brick and the other wood. They are valued at $2,500, with apparatus, etc., and six teachers are employed. The enrollment in the town for 1879 was 423.

The town of Bourbon was not laid out and regularly organized until April 23, 1853, thirteen years after the organization of the township. It contained but few houses even at the date of its organization, and the growth was very slow until the completion of the railroad, in 1856, gave it a fresh start, and from that time on its growth has been rapid and permanent. The original proprietors of the town were Samuel Thomas and J. 8, Neidig. then the following additions have been made: Martin's first and second; J. F. Parks' addition and continued addition: Linn's ad-

Jackson's addition; Balls' addition; Davis' addition; Bailey's addition; Thayer's first, second, third and continued addition; J. W. Thomas' addition: Borton's addition; Staples' addition.

In September, 1865, the town of Bourbon was incorporated under the State law authorizing' the incorporation of towns]and villages for municipal purposes. The first officers elected after the organization took place are as follows: Davis and Jas, H, Porter, Trustees: Caleb Davis, Marshal; Geo. Sears, Clerk and Treasurer; Lewis Gross, Assessor, The following is a full list of the corporation officers from 1865 to ISS):

Clerk. H. Steinback; Treasurer, H. H. Tyrrell; Assessor, G. W. | | - which at that time embraced what is now Tippecanoe Township 1871 - Trustees, Lewis Erwin, J. H. Chamberlain, W. E. |

The first election held in the township was ordered to be held at the house of Elizabeth Parks. This ocenrred in April, 1840, The town of Bourbon had no existence at that time, and for seyeral years afterward had but few houses. The writer remembers having passed through what is now the town of Bourbon in Angust, 1549, and his recollection is quite vivid to the effect that there was not what could be called a town there then. The whole country in that region, with few exceptions, was an unbroken wilderness, and to follow the road that led to Tippecanoe Township without missing the way required a close lookout for the blazes on the trees - - the primitive guide-boards, as it were - that enabled the traveler to find his way. Notwithstanding these precautions, some time during the night, found himself the guest of a pioneer who lived in a log cabin in the woods, half way between what is now Bourbon and Tippecanoe Town. Some ten years ago, a writer gave the following deseription of Bourbon; " The pleasant and healthful little city of Bourbon is built on a high, beautiful platean, on the center border of Marshall County, in the midst of one of the finest, richest and most splendidly devoloped agricultural regions inthe entire State, 'The vicinity of the city is beantiful and diversified by old and magnificent forests of the loftiest and largest timberof every variety; the finest and coziest country seats, nestled in seelnded spots, surrounded by nature's choicest beauties: the largest and most productive farms and horticultural plantations; the peaceful towns and sleepy villages; the schools and churches here and there, o'er hill and vale, all in the midst of health, and abundance of all that makes life desirable and eujoyable." OLD SELTLERS.

Oollege Student

The following order appears on the records of the Commissioners: "Now, at this time, to wit, on the 7th day of March, 1837, here comes in open court James Parks, and makes application for the privilege of sending a student to the Indiana College at Bloomington, to wit, John F. Parks, which request is granted for the term of two years." here was by Frank J. Beck, who started the Bourbon Jndependent Press some time in the early part of 1865, It was a sort of sensational local publication, but did not receive sufficient support to justify the proprietor incontinuing itverylong. Mr. Beck turned it over to William Oram, a young man of some newspaper experience, who ran it for a short time, when it was discontinued, and the material sent to Pierceton, where it is still used, in the publication of a paper at that place.

The Bourbon Mirror was shortly afterward started by I Mattingly and William Geddes, and has been regularly issued for the past ten years. (See chapter on newspapers.)

The following list embraced all the business firms inthe town of Bourbon in 1866, What a change thirteen years has wrought! Less than half a dozen of the fifty named below still remain:

Bourbon Business Directory

Justice of the Peaco - Daniel Kehler, James H. Porter, J. D. Chaplin, Minister of Methodist Episcopal Church - J. W. Lewellen. Minister of United Brethren Church - F. Farmer. Minister of Presbyterian Chureh - F. M. Elliott. Minister of Catholic Church - F. M. Weichman.

The Future Of Bourbon

"An Unpretentious Countrywoman," in an article written several years ago, predicting what Bourbon would be in 1880, dashed off the following phillipic:

While hundreds of gifted writers are now preparing for the eyes of the public the past, present and futuro of the great city of the West, whose crumbling walls into the ashes below only tell of its former glory, I, an unpretentious countrywoman, tremblingly take up my pen, inspired by the same hopeful anticipations, not with regard to Chicago alone, but, with the eye of faith, look from it and heyond into the woody glades and many slopes of Bourbon. Why may we not speculate and write on its future strenoth and greatness, as well as any other place? It is true, we have no Robert Collyers here, to go forth like a man armed for battle, to tear away the miser's hand from his pants pocket by force of eloquence and get $3,000 a night for the purpose of erecting a costly edifice wherein to worship God. Neither have we any share in the sympathies of the people of the nation who are generously sending inmeans tobuild upthe broken towers. But we do claim to have such mon as Little & Co., who have been burned out three times in thirteen years, and now rise up the fourth time amid the ruins, with unbroken spirit and renewed energy, pushing on the ear of merchandise with zealous hands, but letting the Gospel and the churches go to the four winds. And these ruling spirits, these men of money and influence - must we look through their work. ings to view the future of our village? Alas! I fear no eastled wall orshady park, no sparkling turret or dripping fountain, would e'er reward our aching eyes. How earnestly I long for a touch of the conquering finger that turned Saul of Tarsus into St. Paul; that changes the spirit of self-interest into that better and nobler one that works for the public good. Then, in the coming 1SS0, will we see upon College Hill a massive structure, endowed with its hundred thousands, supported by its enthusiastic Christian people. And, away out of sight or scent of pond or puddle, surrounded by objects of interest and pleasure, a large and handsome building, that teacher and scholar can point to with pride and say, " That is our unionschoolhouse." For I would not believe that a people imbued with the grand ideas of true education could he so selfish or so unjust as to let the free common school perish, while they built up an institution for the benetit of the rich alone. And above all, standing out in clear relief, thespires of half a dozen churches, telling to the passing stranger we forgot not to pay grateful homage to the God who permits us to live, and when His day and night of worship comes, their doors will be open, and those of stores and groceries closed, instead of vice versa, as now. I have portrayed a

Bourbon future. Shall I speak of its past and present' Oh, no! Requiescat in pace!" The predictions of the writer, clothed insuch elegant language,

The Pioneer Farmers' Club was organized in 1871. The first officers were: W. H. Sparrow, President; Washington Iden, Seeretary; Aaron Armantrout, Treasurer. It was organized on the basis of free exhibition of stock, machinery, agricultural products, etc. No money premiums were to be awarded. and entrance or admission fees were to be charged. The first exhibition was considered a grand success - so much so that the association has continued to give exhibitions on the same general plan up to the present time. In 1873, the club unanimously passed the following resolution :

Resolved, That the members of the Pioneer Club stand pledged not to support any-candidates for office who are not pledged against all railroad monopolies, : .

Untimely Deaths

Mrs. Abraham Baker was burned to death January 12, 1854. For some days previous to her death, she had been afflicted with chills and fever, and, at the time of the accident, was suffering from a chill. She was oceupying a temporary bed between the stove and fire-place, both of which had fire in them, and, as the chill left her, she fell asleep, but was soon awakened by the heat of her burning clothes, which had caught from the fire in the fireplace. She ran to the door, and, opening it, threw herself into the snow, but it was not of sufficient depth to extinguish the flames. Her husband had but a short time previous left upon an errand to a neighbor's, and there was no one about the house except Mrs. Baker and her infant child, and, having no assistance, and her suffering rendering her almost entirely frantic, she placed herself in the middle of the floor, and. with her eyes fixed upon her only offspring, was literally baking, while every thread of her clothing was burned except her stockings. She lived only long enough to relate what vceurred.

A Diabolical Murder

One of the most horrible and brutal rnurders ever recorded in Northern Indiana was committed near the railroad, one and a half miles east of Bourbon, on the morning of September 7, 1867. The name of the murdered woman was Barbara Catherine Dale, aged about fifty-six years. She came to this country a few years prior to the date of her murder, with her only son,a lad of about twenty years of age, who supported himself and mother in a comfortable

The two owned a small piece of land, on which they had built a small log cabin sufficiently commodious for their own comfort and convenience. On the morning of the murder, the two arose as usual and partook of their morning meal, after which the boy went to his work and the mother to her wash-tub, to finish washing some ¢lothes which were needed for their Sunday change of clothing. The boy was working during most of the forenoon within half a mile of the house, and, nothing oceurring to attract his attention in that direction, he continned at work until he went to On arriving at the house, Le found things considerably disarranged. He made search for bis mother, but she conld nowhere be found. He then communicated the facts to his brother laborers, who at once alarmed the neighbors and

Search was made in every direction, and the body finally found lying, in a horribly mangled condition, near anold decayed stump about one hundred feet fromthe house. She lay weltering in the clotted blood that escaped from her nostrils and ears, produced by the terrible blows she had received in the back of her head with an ax from the handsof her murderer. She lay onher left elbow. apparently as she had fallen, with the left side of her face buried in the sand. Her sun-bonnet was tied tightly around her neck, and so completely covered with blood that the material of which it was made could not be told. An ax was found several rods away, the blood on it giving unmistakable evidence that it was the instrument by which she was killed. A Coroner's Jury made a thorough investigation, taking evidence and using every means in their power to obtain some clue to the mysterious murderer, but their efforts were futile, and they returned a verdiet with the facts as narrated. but, on examination, each proved themselves innocent and were re. leased. The son was sent for on suspicion that. he was knowing to the facts, but there was no evidence against him, and he was Chicago detectives were in the neighborhood for some time afterward, but were unable to work out the mystery. A few Sundays after the body had been buried, some spiritual en- thusiasts had the body exhumed for the purpose of making some tests, by which it was understood the mnrderer would be detected in case he was among those present. A number of those against whom suspicion had attached were on band. It wasclaimed that, if the guilty party touched the corpse, the blood on his fingers would accumulate in sufficient quantities to satisfy any one that anything, that none of those present were guilty, for no blood could be seen on their hands, Some time afterward, one evening, as a dance was in progress near the scene of the murder, seventeen stout fellows pounced npon the unsuspecting assembly, and, before anything could be ascertained as tothe object of their visit, three men, Who were supposed to know something about the cirewmstances of the murder, were unceremoniously arrested and carried away toa retired place, where they were each sworn and separately examined in detail in reference to it. 'The regulators - for such it is thought they were, although none of them were known - learning nothing to warrant them in holding any of the parties arrested, released them and hastily dispersed through the woods. Since then, nothing has been done, and the mystery will probably never be solved.

Edgar MeDonald, oldest son of Daniel McDonald, was acei dentally killed, Angust 23, 1S67, by bemg ran over with a wagon loaded with cord-wood. He had gone from home with a neighbor's boy, and, probably seeing the team and wagon standing in the lane, while the driver was laying up some rails that had fallen from the fence, ran and climbed into the wagon. It was supposed the horses started, throwing him under the wheels. which erushed him, causing his death about an hour afterward.

Jacob Slough was almost instantly killed on the Sth day of December, 1871. He was assisting in getting a flat-car on the railroad track, which was being drawn by a span of horses, when he was struck by a projecting board, which pressed him against the freight honse with such force as to shiver the board. Ile was so badly injured that he died shortly after being removed to his home.

Emma Lilly, daughter of James Lilly, in attempting to cross the railroad track in the town of Bourbon, March 11, 1S74, was eaught by the fast express and instantly killed. A suit for damages was instituted in the Marshall Circuit Court against the rail road company, and twice decided in favor of the plaintiff. The ease was appealed to the Supreme Court, where it is vet pending.

John Conrick, while attempting to board a freight train at Plymouth, April 3, 1872, was canght in the wheels of the cars, run over and instantly killed.

February 23. 1875, the people of Bourbon were thrown into a frenzy of excitement upon hearing the report that Charles Hayward had shot his wife three limes. and, supposing that she would die, shot and killed himself. An examination showed that Hayward had been instantly killed, and that the wounds inflieted upon his wife, although serious, were not fatal. Being interrogated, sho gave the following particulars of the tragedy: Mr. Hayward came home about the time the shooting oceurred. He went to the door of her apartment and asked her to give him a clean shirt, as he was going away. the clothes. When she returned and gave him the articles, he put his hand on her shoulder and said; " Sally, we must both die together," and commenced firing his pistol, when she fell, blinded. He then turned and shot himself, and fell heavily to the floor. The following letter was found on the premises: of the old woman, so [ will end all trouble. I am indebted to my two brothers, und T want them to have my furniture (describing it), I love my wife and baby as dearly as any man couk. She is the only woman T ever saw that wanted ber husband to kucel to her mother in everything. My mind isas clear us ever. Lam not insane at all, [am overwhelmed with I bid farewell to the world. No reason was known for the commission of the rash act other Tt was thought by the people at the time that if was a bad case of " mother-in-law," and that it was the intention of the deceased to make way with his entire family. But his wife recovered, and he only sueceeded in taking his own life.

Dr. N. E. Manville, a former resident of Bourbon, took poison, accidentally, at his home in North Manchester, Ind., January 4, IS72. from the eftects of which he died soon after.

Alva Wooden, aged about twenty-two years, while attempting to cross the railroad track a short distance east of the depot, with a team hitched to a pair of bob-sleds, loaded with fodder, was struck by a passing train. receiving injuries from which he died the day following - January 3, 1S77.

A Bold Robbery

During a considerable period before and after the completion of the railroad, Bourbon and vicinity was infested with a gang of counterfeiters and robbers, who kept the people in a constant fever of excitement and fear. Their operations, however, were not confined entirely to Bourbon; it was simply headquarters, from which radiated the deviltry they concocted when in solemn conclave assembled. Their operations were confined principally to the putting into circulation of counterfeit money of various kinds. It was not thought, however, to have been manufactured there, but issned elsewhere and curried there, and from thence distributed in such manner as was thought the safest and most expeditious. The existence of this organization, and many of those connected with it, were well known, but the evidence of their guilt was not sufficient to warrant legal proceedings. Some of them were, how-. ever, finally arrested on suspicion, but the law's delay, and the many technicalities brought into requisition, enabled all of them to escape the punishment they undoubtedly deserved. One night. in the year IS67, a large number entered the residence of Joseph W. Davis, going through the house and taking everything of value that suited their faney. They first blackened their faces and otherwise disguised themselves. They procured a large scautling, and, using it as a battering-ram, drove if against the front door with such force as to break it open at the first blow. Two of them rushed into the hed-room where Mr. Davis and wife and an infant child were sleeping, and laid violent hands upouthem before they could realize the true condition of affairs. A pistol was under Mr. Davis' head, and, in making a desperate effort. to procure it, he was struck several times on the head and face, making the blood run profusely. The burglars secured the pistol, and, holding Mr, Davis down by the throat. the remainder of the crowd went through the several rooms in the house, taking them seriatim. They had takeu the precaution to give the watch-dog - a very fine Newfoundland - a dose of strychnine, which had put him effectually out of the way. In one of the rooms they found the hired girl; in another, the hired man. At each of these rooms they placed a guard, and, having now everything arranged safely, they began to rummage every part of the house. They made Mr. Davis open his safe, from which they took all the money and papers and other valuable thimgs contained in it. They prepared an excellent supper from the supply of cooked provisions they found in the cuisine department, of which they partook with evident relish. They remained about two hours, and, having finished their work, bade the occupants an affectionate good night and hastily made off. When the robbery became known, early nest morning, the whole town was in a furore of excitement, and threats definite could be ascertained as to who the guilty parties were. nothing was done. Some time afterward, the pocket-book and papers were found close to the railroad track. near Bucyrus, Ohio, and finally returned to the owner. Several of the suspeeted parties soon left town, and others were not slow to follow. and since then, except an occasional housebreaking by tramps, the town has been entirely free from this disturbing element.

Burglar Shot

On the morning of November 26, 1879, about 5 o'clock, a burglar, whose name was afterward ascertained to be Charles Jackerie, of St. Louis, Mo., bursted open the front door of Ketcham & Borton's hardware store by throwing his weight against it. Ou effecting an entrance, he immediately walked behind the counter where the fine cutlery was kept, and was about te proceed to help him self, when he was suddenly stopped by a heavy discharge of buckshot, fired from a shot-gun by Luther Borton. The charge, or twenty-four of the shot, struck him inthe head and face. He fell in his tracks, exclaiming, as he struck the tloor, " Oh, you have killed me!" He was placed under arrest and taken to Plymouth, where, after careful medical treatment, he recovered, and, at the next term of court, was tried, convicted, and sent to the State's Prison for the term of two years.

Destructive Fires

On the 12th of January, 1854, the storeroom of W, F, Thomp son was consumed, together with its entire contents, including his - books. The estimated loss on building, goods, ete., was about $2,500, on which there was an insurance of $1,600. The adjoining room, occupied by Robert Cornwall as a drug store, was also consumed, but a portion of the contents was saved. January 20, 1554, the dwelling-house of James Miner was burnt; no insurance, and nothing saved.

estimated loss of $10,000) to $15,000, Those who suffered by this fire were Leroy Manville, William Sear, A. M. Davis. D. Walmer. Phil Matz, Thomas Banks, Matchette & Franee, W. C. & A. C. Matchette, James Nicols, Lawrence & Matehette, H. A. Snep. Mrs. Hess, A. W. Johnson, J. Oldfather, Dr. L. Johnson, Tyrrell & Chamberlain.

January 15, 1878, the residence and ax-handle factory of Peter Kniseley was destroyed. The loss was estimated at $1,500. The house was one of the first erected in Bourbon.

Manufacturing Companies

The Steinback & Acker Manufacturing Company was organ ized April 21,1873. The eapital stock was fixed at 102 shares of $50 each, whieh was all taken by Henry Steinback, William J. Acker, M. C. Slough, John Slough, A. P. Caldwell and Henry Grass. The organization went into liquidation-a year or two ago.

A Living Spring

Several years ago, Capt. J.C. Hedrich, a veteran of the Mexican war (now deceased), discovered on his farm, a short distance from Bourbon, a vein of water which proved to be a living spring. The water is perfectly clear, and very pleasant tu the taste. The water boils up in twenty-five or thirty different plages, and the soundings show that the fountain-head is at least sixteen feet below | the surface of the ground. It is thought that, with proper hydraulic appliances, water from the spring may be easily carried to the town, and the business and residence houses abundantly sup-. plied with water.

Railroad Station Agents

Before Bourbon became « regular station after the completion of the railroad, there were several parties who acted as agents, but their names have not been furnished, and hence cannot be given. He served four or five years, and resigned in 1865, having been elected Recorder of the county. Daniel MeDonald was then appointed, and served until October, 1ST0, when he resigned, having been elected Clerk of the county. He was succeeded by Clinton C, Humphrey, who served three or four years, and, having resigned, his place was filled by Frank P, Griffin, the present agent. The yearly business transacted at this station for freight sent and re- ceived, ticket sales, ete..as ascertained from reliable data, amounts to about 350,000, The depot, up to ashort time before the completion of the present building. was a little roundhouse that stood near the flouring-mill on the north sideof the track. Many were the wonders what such a building as that was erected for. Old Unele Juseph Davis (now gone to the spirit land}, who was an enthusiastic believer in spiritual manifestations, erected this building especially for the accommodation of such spirits as were pleased to leave their celestial abode and return to this sin-cursed eurth for the amusement of themystie circle that there did congre- Some time before the death of Mr. Davis, the spiritual seances were abandoned and the building nsed for the purposes

The Telegraph Office

Nellie Nixon was probably the first operator. then station agent, took charge of the telegraph. Since then, there have been emploved as night and day operators, at various times, C. C. Humphrey, Isaae T, Lloyd, G. D. Phillips, Z. D, Ells, Kd Pitzgerald, C. L. Morris, F. M. Blassingham, E. Comstock, A. N. Leland, C. Rowe, Lew Mond, A. Brubaker, J. Harrington, William H, Ladd, Robert 'T. Reed, G. O. Martin, William Ochletrea, Walter Grego, J, H. Larue, R. Phinney, C. M. Larue and Frank P. Griffin. pany one of the most important between Fort Wayne and Chicago

A serious collision oecurred between the Plymouth and Valparaiso wood trains a short distance west of the station, in March, 1869, by which two employes were killed and five or six others more or less injured.

Express Companies

The American Express Company established an office here shortly after the railroad was emapleted, About ten years ago, the Adams Express Company crowded the American off the road, thus compelling the American to close their office, Since that time. the Adams has had exclusive control of the express business. The railroad agents have, with one exception, been the agents of the express companies.

Bourbon College

ARTICLES OF AGREEMENT mie and entered into between Mathew Erwin Howard Barnaby, A. C. Matchett, Newell Minard, David Wilkins, and K-. Heekman, of the first part, and Jacoh B. Shively, Jessee Calvert and Jacob Beiby, of the second part,

The party of the first part agrees to make a good and sufficient war ranty deed, or cause the same to be made, of the college property in Bourlon, Marshall Co., Ind., to said party of the second part, subject to the following conditions, to wit: That said college property is to le used perpetually for college purposes, after the order of Burber College, in the State of Ohio, except the theological department, aud if not so used by the tives who have subseribed, and to pay the sum of $2,500 in a ratable portion to the amount paid by each person so subseribing, And the party of the first part agrees to pay Uo the party of the second part the sum of $1,000 on or before the 24th day of May, 1871.) The party of the second part «lo assign the above-named subscriptions te the purty of the first part for their own use upon the conditions that the party of the first part make deed as aforesaid and become responsible for the $1,000, Sigued, M. Erwin, K. THeekman, H. Barnaby, N. E. Minard, A. C. Matchett; Citizens' Committee; Jacob B. Shively, Jacol) Beiby; Jessee Calvert, Chairman of Committee.

The college was incorporated under the laws of the State of Indiana, and on the 24th of February, 1871, prior to the making of the above agreement. The objects for which said institution was established were for the diffusing of useful, religious. moral and scientific knowledge, under the control of the German Baptist thareh of the mother Baptist Chureh of Indiana. The amount of endowment designed to be reached was 5100.00, That they shall connect with the college, in land, buildings. donations and property. to the value of $12,000, time; scholarships were sold and the college was opened, and con tinned for a period of two or three years, when the organization became inyolyed in litigation, finally dissolved, aud the property reverted to the original owners, by whom it is held at the present time. In 1877, the public schools of the town of Bourbon moved into the college building, and are still oeenpying it.

The Public School Building

The public school building of Bourbon was erected in 1865 and 1866,at a costof about $4,000. It is acommodious building, two stories. comfortably seated and ventilated. Reason Shinnebarger was tbe first teacher who occupied the building after it was completed. He was followed by Mrs. Hoover, Messrs. Boek, Reefy, Chronse, W. EK. Bailey, Prof. Allen, Miss Borton, Mr. James, Mr. Greenawalt, and Byron McAlpine, present Principal. Mr. McAlpine prepared the first course of instruction in 1877.

Ss a - ? 128 HISTORY OF MARSHALL COUNTY. Within a few hours afterward, over one hundred and fifty mes- First Year - First term - Physiology, algebra, analysis. Seeond term - Analysis, algebra, physical geography. Third term - Arithmetic reviewed, algebra, physical geography, rhetoric.

Second Year - TFirst term - General history, algebra, plane geometry. Second term - History, natural pilosuphy, plane geometry. Third term - -History, philosophy, botany.

Third Year - First term - -English literature, chemistry, botany. Second term - Literature, chemistry, zoilogy. Third term - Geology, literature, didactics.

Fire Department

Vigilant Hook & Ladder Company was organized July 5, 1875. The cost of apparatus complete was about S385. It has twenty-five members. The Foremen have been as follows: 1875, O, F. Ketcham: 1876, J. W. Davis, Jr.; 1877, P. M. Lawrence; 1874, ISTY, ISSO, J. W. Davis, Jr. This company participated in a friendly contest at Warsaw during the fair in 1876; also in a friendly contest at Bremen in 1877, and, July 4, 1877, won the second prize, $50, at the State Tournament at Goshen. They ran 150 yards and sent a man over the top of a twenty-foot ladder in twenty-eight seconds. They also participated in the contest at Fort Wayne, July 6, 1880, rnuning the same distance in twentyfour and one-fourth seconds, and winning the prize of $75. This company has the reputation of being one of the best in the State.

Benevolent Societies

Secret and benevolent societies are well represented here, there being branches of the organizations of Masons,Odd Fellows, Good Templars, Red Men, Eastern Star and Daughters of Rebecea.

Bourbon Lodge, No. 227, FP. d A. M. - This lodge was organizod under dispensation in the latter part of 1865. John W. Hagans, formerly of Goshen, was the leading spirit in its organization, assisted by George H. Thayer, Lucius Caul, Milton M. Galentine and a few others. The lodge was organized under charter January +}, 166, The following have served as Masters during the years named since its organization: John W. Hagans, under dispensation and 1566 and 1867; Daniel McDonald, L868, Lt), 1870; Elias C. Galentine, 1871, 1872; Luther Johnson, 1873, 1874, 1876, 1878; Owen S$. Gaskell, 1875, Jacob Shirey, 1877; W. S. Ramsey, 1879, 1$80. In the earlier years of the organization of this lodge, several fine entertainments were given, On one oceasion, the Rey. A. Merine, then of Warsaw, delivered an address, which was spoken of in the highest terms of praise. On another occasion, Rey. William Lusk, of Plymonth, performed the oratorical partof the programme. A glee club furnished the vocal music, and the Bourbon Band the instrumental music, for these festive occasions. Two banquets were spread at the American House, then kept by M. C. Henshaw, and one in the hall. The recollection of these enjoyable occasions, Pinaforically expressed, will " hardly ever" be forgotten. Many of those who figured conspicuously on these occasions have been scattered to the " four winds." Lucius Caul, than whom a more genial, whole-souled man never lived, lies in the little graveyard east of town, food for worms. M. M. Galentine, who so long perambulated the ladge hall with Deacon's rod in hand, has gone to the land of Goshen. J. W. Hagans, the first to adorn the Master's chair, has gone to form rose in sections at the sound of the gavel,still lingers on " the ragged edge." All these, and more, are gone, but they are not forgotten. They labored long and faithfully, and their works do follow them.

Bourbon Lodge, No, 203, 1. O. O. F. Was organized December 13, 1858, with five charter members, as follows: R. S. Gordon, D. O. Beeman, B. G. Gosgrove, W. M. Gosgrove, R. Richard, J. R. Dodge. The following is a listof those who have served as Noble Grands, amount paid for benevolent purposes, and amountof lodge fund on hand each year since the organization:

Noble Grands

' In 1867, the lodge purchased a building for its use, for which $882 was paid. In 1877, ground was purchased for an Odd Fellows' Cemetery, at a cost of $1,058.98. The lodge has, during its existence, had a number of festivals and social entertainments, uttawattamie Tribe, No. 16, Lnproved Order of Red Mew - Was organized May 22, 1ST, by P. 5. Hnffiman, of Richmond, Ind. Two of its members had the honor of serving as Great Sachem of the State, of whom J. W. Davis, Sr., still resides within the hunting-grounds of the tribe.

The order of the Eastern Star, confined to the members of the Masonic fraternity, their w'ves. sisters and daughters; and the Daughters of Rebeka, confined to the Odd Fellows and their lady relatives, each have prosperous organizations here,

In no other part of the county has there been a more persistent and long-continued effort to eradicate the evils of intemperance. A lodge of Good Templars was organized here several years ago, and has continued its existence with more or less yigor to the present. Pnblic meetings have been held in the churches, halls, and elsewhere, from fime to time, and the women caught the inspiration and organized a praying band, which continued its operations for several months during the existence of that exciting period. This was followed by the Blue Ribbon organization, out of which grew the Woman's Christian Temperance Union, still in existence,

Bourbon Cornet Band

In 1566, through the exertions of Web Truslow and Charles Jewel, amateur musicians, then residing in Bourbon, succeeded in organizing the Bourbon Cornet Band, comprised of the following members, in addition to themselves: Charles Rathburn, J. W. Parks, Daniel Hartman, Daniel D. Hanes, Jerome H. Chamberlain, William Johnson, Frank Johnson, and Henry Steinback, leader. The instruments were purchased in Chicago, at a cost of $150, of which $25 was contributed by the members, $40 donated by the citizens of Bourbon, and $76 borrowed from Caleb Davis, which wus afterward retmmmed to him. In 1867, some changes took place, George Hupp and the Gaylord brothers being admitted as members. Mr. Steinback resigned his leadership in 1872, and was succeeded by George Hupp, who continued as such for several years. During the Presidential campaign of 1880, the band made $520. The present membership consists of George Hupp, Frank George, Henry Steinback, James Spencer, William Snyder, Maratz Rester, Harry Wilkins, Hiram Bowman, William Steinback, William Rosebrook, B. Hamlin, George Reed; Samuel O'Brien, leader.

The Post Office

But little information has been obtained in regard to this important branch of the public service. Until the completion of the railroad, it was a very small affair, the Postmaster usually earrying the small number of letters and papers in his hat and coat pocket. Capt. John C. Hedrick, a Mexican war veteran, was Postmaster for some years in the early days. Daniel O. Beeman also served a time, as did also Syl Beals, James E. Houghton, John W. Houghton, Harmon Bayler, and undoubtedly others, a record of whose names has not been kept. I=gnatius Mattingly is the

The Methodists, United Brethren, Presbyterians and Catholics have chureb buildings here, and each, except the Catholics, have large and flourishing Sunday schools.

The United Brethren commenced missionary work in and about Bourbon in 1840 and 1550. Revs. B. 5. Clevenger, H. M. Hicker, J. D. Plummer, P. Coons, John 5. Todd and H. A. Snepp were the first to preach the Gospel according to that faith in this region. One of the places where meetings were held was a log schoolhouse that stood near the residence of James O. Parks, now within the corporate limitsof Bourbon. These missionary efforts resulted in the organization of the United Brethren Church, which In a few years afterward, the

A larger and more commodious schoolhouse was erected, which was oceupied by the church until 1857 or 1860. About this time, the organization built their first meeting-house, at a cost of $2,500 - a very good building for But it did not stand long. A few years later, it was fired by some enemy (it was thought) and entirely destroyed. This sad calamity cast a gloom over the entire congregation, but they rallied again, and erected a building on the ruins in 1864, at a cost of $3,500. Among those

Thomas B. Lee

The subject of this sketch was born in the city of Philadelphia, Penn., on the 14th of February, 1531; at the age of eleven years, he removed to Marion County, Ohio, with his parents, Nathan and Uree Lee, and grew to maturity there. His father

A. Snepp, George Sickafoose, N. Castle, F. Thomas, John Good, J. C. Larue. D. M. B. Patten,S. W. Wells and John Farmer, present Pastor, and H. A. Snepp, Presiding Elder. only one remaining who participated in the original organization.

Religious History

_gious organizations are commenced at the county seat, and from thence radiate out to the different parts of the county. ing men of marked religious character usually enter these new fields and lay the foundation of future churches and religious associations, and they are usually pushed forward with the more energy on that account, and hence the way is soon opened for the more regular operations of the churches.

The history of religion in Marshall County, or of Bourbon Private enterprises or missionary effort took the lead here. But denominational enterprise was soon apparent, which, though usually operating in harmony, and with friendly feelings, yet, from th it ambi- tion and preference which each has for its own, developed considerable activity. Hence, Presbyterians, Methodists, Wesleyans. Baptists, Disciples and United Brethern sprang wp in rapid succession, and the fields were soon white for the harvest, of which each gathered its share. In Bourbon Township, Methodists first broke ground in 1839. The United Brethren organized in 1849; the Presbyterians in 1860; German Baptists, a few years earher, Allbrights, a few years later; and Lutherans, Catholics and Disciples brought up the rear. There may be fragmentary portions of other churches, but, we think, no organized bodies, except Seventh day Adventists, who effected an organization in 1865.

The Baptist Church had an organization in Center Township, and preached occasionally in Bourbon, but we think had no organization there. It had one organization in Bourbon Township, effected in 1851.

All these churches have held their ground with more or less firmness, and, with their usual and characteristic activity, have done much toward humanizing society, and enlightening and evangelizing the people among whom they are laboring, and there is | apprenticeship at the same trade. For a period of twenty years he was engaged at this trade as a contractor, and finally he and his brother contracted to perform certain work at Van Wert, Ohio, but after reaching that point, the party of the second part, proved unfaithful to the terms of the agreement, and the brothers started out in quest of a location. They erected a saw-mill northeast of Bourbon, in Marshall County, Ind., and conducted a His brother then retired from the firm, leaving the business in the hands of its present proprietors, Thomas B. 'Lee and Dwight L.-Dickinson. They have an extensive saw-mill and lumber-yard, at the village of Inwood, on the line of the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railway, and transport large quantities of lumber, annually, to There is much about Mr. Lee's life that is deserving of commendation. He has risen in the world by his own exertions, and with few advantages to assist him. From his enable him to embark in business on a small scale, gradually enlarging, until the enterprise assumed its present proportions. He is a thorough business man, and by a course of sconomy and good management, has accumulated a competence in worldly His transactions with the world have always been honorable, and his personal characteristics have gained him many friends; he stands high in the community, and is a worthy member of the Masonic fraternity and the Order of Red Men. September 20, 1854, he was united in marriage with Miss Ruth H. Platt, in Morrow County, Ohio. They are the parents of two daughters - Heien Viola and Clara Rosamond.

Marshall James

the academy in his native county; at the age of seventeen years, he entered a store, where he occupied the position of clerk until twenty years of age; at the age of twenty-one years, he went to the city of West Chester, and embarked in mercantile pursuits, remaining thus engaged for about five years; at the end of that time he sold this store and accepted employment on the railroad from West Chester to Philadelphia, and two years later, entered the office at Philadelphia as ticket agent; subsequently he became a commission merchant in the city of Philadelphia, and for fifteen years conducted a satisfactory and lucrative at at the end of that time, he removed to Cumberland, Penn., and purchased a flouring and cotton mill, which he conducted successfully for ten years; at the close of that period (in 1862), he sold out and located at the town of Bourbon, in Marshall County, Ind., where he has ever since continued to reside; at Bourbon, he engaged in the lumber trade on a large scale, and was thus business. He has always been a leading citizen of Bourbon, and has taken an active part in the inauguration of the various public enterprises instituted within the town and county, and has contributed liberally to their successful termination; of a modest, retiring nature, he has avoided the excitement of politics, and never permitted his name to be used as a candidate for office; his early political training was in the Whig school, and upon the organization of the Republican party, he embraced its principles, and has since continued to vote for its candidates; he was reared under the religious influences of the Society of Friends, and his life has been marked by that quiet, Christian demeanor which seems so peculiarly characteristic of that sect; he is honored by all who know him, and his verbal obligation has always been regarded as ample security for the performance of a promise; he stands highly in the community, and no one enjoys more fully the confidence and esteem of his fellow-men; his life has been quiet, but while it has been marked by no great event, it has not been spent in vain. Private contributions to deserving enterprises, and deeds of kindness performed away from the gaze of the world, have carried joy to the hearts of the recipients, and gained for him an esteem pure and lasting. He may be fairly regarded as one of the self-made men of our day; for, while he has succeeded in a financial sense, his success is to be traced to a point in his life when he was a poor clerk in a country store, with industry and determination as his only capital. He was married, in 1827, to Miss Mary Camp, in Chester County, Penn. Together they traveled life's uneven pathway for forty years, sharing their mutual joys and sorrows, until death invaded the household, and removed from time the faithful wife and mother, in May, 1867. Of this happy union were born six children, only two of whom now survive, viz.: Martha A., wife of Abraham James, of Fredonia, N. Y., and Susan Y., wife of H. C. Smith, of Bourbon.

Hon. James O. Parks

James O. Parks was born in Bourbon County, Ky., March 20, 1813; he was reared amid scenes of pioneer life, and his opportunities for acquiring even the rudiments of an education were exceedingly limited. A rude log schoolhouse, with all its appointments of the most primitive order, and its teacher a thorough specimen of the old-time pedagogue, furnished him with his first insight to the mysteries of Imowledge, and inspired him with a thirst for more. Even in his boyhood, he had dreams of a career that should not be bounded by his farm lines, and that this dream became a reality in other years was due to the persistence with which he pursued his studies, aided by none but his own bright intellect. At the end of a hard day's work, he would pursue his studies until the last ray of daylight vanished, and in the winter he would sit by the blazing fire-light far into the night, poring over his books. He soon distanced his school-mates and teacher, and grew up a well-informed man. In 1827, the family emigrated to Rush County, Ind., and settled upon a tract of wild land, which they cleared and cultivated for about eight years. In 1835, they removed to Marshall County, Ind., and were the first white settlers in Bourbon Township; here they entered a tract of 1,280 acres. At the age of sixteen years, James began teaching school, and for nearly ten years was thus engaged during the winter; he had acquired proficiency in the science of surveying, and, immediately upon coming to Marshall County, in 1835, began his public duties as a surveyor, and was thus engaged for about fifteen years, during which time he became thoroughly conversant with the topography of the county, and the location of valuable lands. In the meantime, he pursued a course of legal studies, with the view of entering upon the practice of the law. In 1844, he was elected Justice of the Peace, and resigned that office three years later, to accept the nomination of his party for Representative in the Legislature of Indiana; he was elected by a handsome majority, and re-elected in 1848; in 1852, he was admitted to the bar, and began the practice of his chosen profession; in 1858, he was again elected Representative, and re-elected in 1859, and at the expiration of that term, returned to resume his practice at the bar; in the year 1860 he was employed by some subjects of the Danish Government, then residing in this county, to settle some estates in the Virgin Islands (St. Thomas and St. Croix), and went there for that purpose, gaining thereby valuable additions to his knowledge of maritime law. He returned in 1861 to find his own country engaged in civil war, and his eldest son a soldier in the Union army. Asa practitioner, Mr. Parks has met with signal success, particularly in the settlement of estates. He is not a flowery or fluent speaker, yet his cases are prepared with great system and accuracy, and his devotion to the best interests of his clients, as well as his great integrity, have made him a successful lawyer and a powerful opponent, In all his public life, his actions have been such as to command the respect and approbation of friends and political opponents alike. While in the Legislature he proved himself the friend of the public schools, by introducing legislation for their advancement and improvement. In the session of 1858 he was Chairman of the Committee on Education and Temperance, and drafted and presented the bill, by which the Board of three Trustees for each township was abolished, and their duties relegated to one trustee. He was devoted to this move in the interest of the simplification' and efficiency of the school system, and had the pleasure of seeing it become a law. He was also a leader in the legislative action by which the banktax fund, the saline fund and the sinking fund were converted into the general school fund. He filled other important positions while a member of the Legislature. In the session of 1849, he was a member of the special committee for the settlement of the State debt, arising from the construction of the Wabash & Erie Canal, which culminated in the passage of the Butler Bili, by which the State was relieved of a great debt and an imminent probability of repudiation. In the session of 1858, he was a member of the Committee on Rights and Privileges, as well as that of Education and Temperance. As a legislator, his career was marked by fidelity to trusts, and honest efforts for the best interests of the State and its people; as a lawyer, traits equally commendable have marked his professional record, and all combine to inspire the high regard in which he is. held as a man and citizen. For more than forty years he has been a member of the Presbyterian Church, and for thirty-two years has oceupied the position of Elder. He is always prominent in all measures tending toward the moral or temporal improvement of the community, and has long been identified with the temperance reform.

On the 3d of October, 1836, he was married to Miss Susan Dinwiddie, a lady of fine accomplishments and a noble, Christian woman. Of this happy union were born two sons - Sinclair D. and John W., and one daughter, Jennie. Both sons are graduates of Ann Arbor (Mich.) University, and both are successful 'attorneys at the Marshall County bar. Sinclair D. is located at Bourbon, while John W. is located at Plymouth. Jennie, the eldest daughter, is a lady of rare accomplishments, and was identified with the early schools of Bourbon as a teacher. Until quite recently she was a teacher in the public schools of Frankfort, Ind., where she gained an enviable reputation. She was married to Henry D. Weaver in 1865. Ora Bell, his adopted daughter, is an accomplished musician, and occupies the position of organist in two churches at Bourbon.

William Childs Plummer

Plummer, to Fayette County, Ind. Here he grew up to manhood, assisting his father in opening up and improving his farm. To clear and cultivate a farm in that wooden district was no small undertaking. Here he shared, with his father's family, the many hardships as well as the pleasures incident to the early settling of Indiana. On the 13th day of February, 1840, he was married to Miss Politha Young, daughter of Benjamin and Susanah Young, of Marion County, Ind.; in 1846, he came to Marshall County, and bought the 146-acre tract of land where he is still living. When they settled here, there was but one three-acre piece of land cleared between their farm and where the town of Bourbon now stands. At that time there were but a few white families living in the settlement, while the red men abounded in great numbers. Mr. Plummer and his good wife were held in great esteem by these children of the forest, and, with the exception of the habit so characteristic of the Indian, that of begging such delicacies as could be found in the white man's cabin only, proved themselves to be very peaceable neighbors. My. Plummer was a man of great physical strength and endurance, and cheered by the prospect before him, wielded his trusty steel with unrelenting industry, felled the sturdy oak, made mighty bon-fires out of its branches, and soon had the satisfaction of beholding the waving corn covering the surface of the little clearing which formed the nucleus around which his farm was to gradually open up. These good people have lived to see the fruits of their toils of earlier years, and are surrounded by all the comforts and luxuries to be found on a well-regulated farm. They have never had any offspring, but have raised four children - a boy and three little girls, all of whom have grown up under the most favorable circumstances. Mr. Plummer's great-grandfather Plummer was a native of England, and his grandfather, Thomas Plummer, and his father, were born in Maryland. Mrs. Plummer's ancestors were English and German: her father and mother, however, were born in North Carolina. For more than fifty-three years, Mr. Plummer has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and his wife has been a member for over thirty-eight years. Mr. Plummer is a sound Republican, yet charitable toward men of different views, in either politics or religion. The portraits of this good couple appear in this history, and will be hailed with pleasure by their scores of friends who have learned to respect them for their purity of character and their lovable dispositions.

William Sear

Among the self-made men of this county may be mentioned the subject of this biography; he launched out into the world just as his youth merged into manhood, and, with few advantages to assist him, has steadily fought his way to a position of independence. He was born at Mechlinburg-Swerin, Germany, on the 12th of January, 152%). his native country, he enjoyed a good education, and after finishing his school life, became a tailor's apprentice. By the time he attained his majority he had completed his apprenticeship, and, with his trade as his sole dependence, he started to the United

States, reaching New York on the 3d of May, 1850; he secured employment at his trade, and after acquiring a knowledge of our business usages, embarked in business for himself. Eleven years passed, during which he met with. success, and acquired some property in New York. At the close of that period, in 1861, he started for a tour through California and Oregon, and upon his return trip visited Mexico, Central and South America, and reached New York in 1864, having virtually circumnavigated the Western Hemisphere. During the voyage, he meta gentleman who was engaged at that time in the hardware trade at Bourbon, Marshall Co., Ind., and having already decided to locate in the West, it was partly through the influence of this gentleman that he selected Bourbon for his future home. He arrived at that town in the spring of 1865, and on the 15th of April of that year, opened a merchant tailor establishment in a very small room, from which he was soon forced to remove by his increasing trade. Year by year his business grew, and with it he combined the purchase and sale of lumber, amounting to many thousands of dollars annually. He managed his business affairs with a master hand, and his careful guardianship of his interests resulted in great gain to himself; he became the possessor of an ample fort- Since then his time has been devoted to the supervision of his property. While he has always been prudent and economical, he has been free from any disposition to hoard a fortune already ample, and has dispensed his bounty liberally in aid of educational and charitable institutions, and public benefits of all kinds. He is a publre-spirited man, and takes a lively interest in the improvement of the county.

He has been twice married; first-in New York, in 1856, to Miss Catharine Boyle, a native of New Jersey, who died in 1872, leaving two daughters, Mamie A. and Lucina; in 1874, he was married to Miss Madie A. Wallace, his present companion. Mr. Sear's political affiliations have always been with the Democratic party, and while he has never sought office, he has twice consented to serve in a public capacity; first, as Trustee of Bourbon, which position he filled creditably for two years. In January, 1880, he was appointed County Commissioner to fill the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of H. Barnaby, and in the fall of that year was elected for the remainder of the unexpired term. Personally, he is esteemed by all who know him, and words of eulogy from the stranger's pen can add none to the high regard entertained for him by the citizens of the county in which he has passed a portion of his life.

Daniel R. Bearss

Daniel Robert Bearss was born in Wessaw, Miami Co., Ind., October 10, 1837. Wessaw was an Indian village, situated where the town of Denver now stands. Shortly after the birth of the subject of this sketch, who was the first white child born in the village, his father, Ephraim Bearss, purchased the claim (then oceupied by the Indians) of the United States, the Indians being removed to their reservation west of the Mississippi River. In 1541, the family removed to Peru, where they remained for a year, and then went some two miles north of town and became permanently settled on a farm. My. Bearss had the misfortune to lose his mother, whose maiden name was Fannie Knox, when he was thirteen years of age. In 1852, he came, with his father, to Marshall County and settled one mile above where the village of Tippecanoetown now stands, and worked on the farm aati 1858, when he went to Kansas, arriving there in time to vote against the admission of the accursed system of African slavery, being introduced therein. At the end of that year he returned to Marshall County, and began the improvement of a forty-aere lot which now comprises a part of the 130-aere farm on which he is living. He was married, July 14, 1860, to Miss Rhoda A. Kirk. of this county, daughter of Joshua and Mary Kirk, who at present reside in Bourbon. Since his marriage he has inereased the | number of acres of land from the forty then in his possession, to 290 acres of rich land, all of which lies in Tippecanoe Township. He has an only son, Frederick E., who is twenty years of age, and whois at home with his parents. Mr. Bearss' father was born in the State of New York December 16, 1805, and his mother in that State. May 10, 1509. His parents were married at Brownstown, Mich., July 29, 1824; his mother died January 30, 1850, and his father May 23,1881. Mr. Bearss is a live Republican, and no man in his community has done more as an organizer and harmonizer than he has; in fact, he is a leader of no ordinary ability; for genuine hospitality and unswerving friendship, he has but few equals and no superiors.