Cedar Creek Township

Location And Boundary

Cedar Creek is situated in the northern part of Allen County, and is bounded as follows : North by De Kalb County, east by Springfield Township, south by Milan and St. Joseph Townships, west by Perry Township.

Streams And Water-Courses

St. Joseph River traverses the township from northeast to southwest. Cedar Creek flows through the western portion, joining St. Joseph River at a point near the village of Cedarville. There are also four small streams, or branches, flowing in a direction parallel with the course of Cedar Creek, and finding an out¬ let in the St. Joseph.

Until 1837, Cedar Creek formed a part of the territory included in the com¬ prehensive boundaries of St. Joseph Township, as established by the first Board of Commissioners of Allen County, but in September of that year it was ordered by the Board that Township 32 north, of Range 13 east, be an organized town¬ ship. to be known as Cedar Creek. It was thus made to comprise a Congres¬ sional Township, with an area of 35.58 square miles, 23,026.61 acres.

Early Settlers

Prior to the date of its cession to the white man, the territory of this town¬ ship had been penetrated by French missionaries, who came to administer to the spiritual needs of its savage possessors. They left nothing from which can be gathered their names, or any authentic account of their labors.

After the territory came into possession of the white man, traces of their existence were discovered in various portions of the township. On one occasion William Muller, soon after his arrival, was walking through the woods near his cabin, and saw some carved figures in the bark of a beech-tree, which upon closer examination, proved to be a French inscription, with the date 1772, followed by 4 cross. The inscription bore evidence of being of no recent date, but whether as old as it purported to be will of course ever be shrouded in doubt. The fact of this having been a missionary station was established by events which occurred in later years, and which will be recorded in another part of this chapter.

After it was vacated by the Indians, the soil of this township remained untenanted until 1833; then a Mr. Wood, in quest of a Western home, located on the bank of Cedar Creek, where he erected a cabin and passed the winter. This one season seemed to satisfy his desire for association with a new country, and in the following spring he decided to embrace the first opportunity of returning to New York, his native State. This opportunity presented itself in the succeeding

Jacob Notestine, with his family, came to the township in a flat-boat, and while their goods were being disembarked, it came to the ears of Mr. Wood that a boat was at the landing. He interviewed the proprietor, who, on the following day, pushed his boat up to Wood's cabin, on Cedar Creek, and the disheartened adventurer embarked with his household goods for a more convenient locality.

Jacob Notestine was a man who came with a full realization of what he would have to encounter in the woods, and as the hardships of pioneer life fell upon him, he met them with a determined courage, knowing that time and indus¬ try would in a measure, smooth his thorny pathway. On the 15th day of July, 1830, he settled in Fort Wayne, having left Fairfield County, Ohio, about two weeks previously. He had a family of thirteen children, of whom six are now living. Peter and Daniel are substantial farmers in this township ; Aaron and Isaiah reside in Kansas.

Mr. Notestine remained nineteen years in the township, during which time he proved himself equal to the task of making life profitable in the wilderness. He cleared a fine farm, upon which he lived until the close of his life in Decem¬ ber, 1853.

John Manning, from Mercer County, Ohio, settled iu the township in the spring of 1834, a few days subsequent to the arrival of Jacob Notestine. He selected a tract of land on Section 15, which he cleared and improved, and upon which he resided during life. This farm is now owned bv Bepjamin Schlatter. His sons, William and Amos Manning, now reside in Eel River Township. He was a man of industrious habits and great energy, and was universally esteemed throughout the settlement.

William Miiller came from Ohio and settled on his present farm in 1836. He was then a young man and full of life and energy, so indispensable to one in Ida position. From Beckett's Branch to the spot which he had chosen for his home, he was compelled to cut his way through the woods. After felling some trees and erecting a cabin, he went to Cincinnati, Ohio, and there was married to the lady who, ever since, has been his companion and helpmeet. He has cleared and improved a fine farm, upon which he still resides.

Louis Nettlehurst settled in the township soon after William Miiller, and cleared a farm on Section 18, where he died within a few years after his arrival.

Peter Sullivan and John Rogers came in the same year (1836). Both are natives of Ireland, and have always been firm friends. They lived near each other in Pennsylvania and emigrated to Indiana in company. Both have cleared the land they then purchased and converted it into fine farms. They still reside in the township, respected by all who know them.

John Baker and William Berry came in 1836. Baker was a native of Mercer County. Ohio, and settled with his family on a tract of heavily timbered land, from which he developed a good farm About ten years later, he sold his farm and removed to St. Joseph, Mo. His companion, Mr. Berry, was also a native of Mercer County, Ohio. He located on the farm now owned by the heirs of Christian Schlatter, and remained engaged in its cultivation until his removal to the West.

Moses Sivotts, an early settler of St. Joseph Township, settled in Cedar Creek in 1838. He remained here until death, and was buried on his own farm, which is now owned by Mrs. Sebastian Schlatter.

Cedar Creek Towns Hip

William and Joseph Shields, John Hackley, Aaron Puff, William Bowser, John Hagan, Henry Updyke, Abraham Fulkerson. Harmon Lydecker, Joseph Silvers, John B. Blue and - Jones were among the early settlers of the town¬

Early Events

Jacob Notestine set out the first orchard in 1836. He bought the trees from John Chapman (alias Johnny Appleseeds), a character well known by the older residents of the county. This orchard is still thrifty and bears fruit annu¬ ally.

The first road was surveyed through the township in 1835, being a continu¬ ation of the road surveyed in the preceding year as far as Jacob Notestine's farm. In this year, it was made a State road, and called the Fort Wayne and St. Joseph I road.

Mary, daughter of Peter Notestine, was the first white child born in the township. She was born in the fall of 1834, and died later in the same year.

The first marriage was celebrated in 1840, between Nelson Grubb and Miss Martha A. Notestine, at the residence of the bride's parents. In the same year, William Manning and Miss Eliza Murray, and Amos Manning and Miss Rouch, were united in the holy bonds.

The first store was kept by Thomas Hamilton in 1838-39 near the present site of Maxfield & Co.'s flouring-mill at Hamilton. E. L. Knight opened a store about the same time in the half-completed mill building at that village. This mill was built by William G. Ewing, and was the first in the township.

Stout Price was the first blacksmith. He came to the township in 1840, and erected his forge in a little log cabin, near the site of Hamilton. After that village was platted, he removed to the place now occupied by a shop of the same character, belonging to John Sehoerpf. Samuel Cassady was associated with Price as partner, and subsequently opened a shop in the building vacated by the latter.

John Dover was the first wagon -maker in the township. He opened his shop in 1839 or 1840, and conducted his trade successfully for a number of years. He is now one of the proprietors of the Leo Flouring-Mills.

The first schoolhouse was built near the center of the township in 1837. It was situated near the swamp, and was quite inaccessible, as there were no roads leading to it, and few children within the vicinity. It was never used for the purpose, and was left to decay. The public-school system was inaugurated in 1857, and within a few years, each district was supplied with a school building. Of this class there are now ten in the township, having 593 scholars enrolled.

The first election was held in the school-house in 1837. The voting-pre¬ cinct was so remote from the inhabited part of the township, that not more than half of the voters found their way to it. It was then ordered that the election be held thereafter at the house of John Manning. At the election which took place at the log schoolhouse, Joseph Silvers and John B. Blue were elected Justices of the Peace, and Thomas Wilson, Constable.

The first post office in the township was established in 1847, two years pre¬ vious to the platting of the village of Hamilton. It was known as Leo Post Office, and John Manning was appointed Postmaster. The office was kept at the store of John B. Blue, who. acted as Depaty. The mail was carried from Fort Wayne to the northwestern towns in Ohio, and the southern towns in Michigan ; and Leo was a point on the route. Jeremiah Bowen was the contractor, and his sons, Mason and Marvin, rode the horses used for the mail service.

The first religious meeting was held at the house of Jacob Notestine. in 1836, by Rev. Hickland, of the Methodist Protestant Church. In 1838, a class was organized under the auspices of this denomination, and received accessions from the Methodist Episcopal and United Brethren Churches. They held meetings at irregular intervals, in private houses, and at a later date, in the schoolhouse on Section 32 ; maintaining an organization until the members of the Methodist and United Brethren Churches withdrew to organize their respective denominations.

Methodist Episcopal. - The members of this denomination organized a class in 1845, under the ministerial offices of Rev. Dowd, and held meetings at Silver's Schoolhouse until 1851. In that year, they erected a log church on the farm of Wesley Hollopeter, and maintained services for several years. Finally, some of its members withdrew and organized churches nearer their homes. Mount Olivet Church and Robinson Chapel are its successors. Its membership was weakened by their withdrawal, and it soon ceased to be used as a church. Id 1851, the Methodists organized at Hamilton, and held meeting at the house of Henry McEwen. Rev. Andrew Hollopeter was in charge of the circuit to which it was attached, and officiated as Pastor - holding meetings once a month. In 1857, they erected a small frame church at Hamilton, in which they worshiped until 1878. The building was then sold, and the congregation purchased one of larger dimensions, which they repaired, and in which they now worship. They have a membership of forty, and the Church is under the pastoral care of Rev. Wolverton.

In 1869, the members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, living at Cedarville, erected at that point a neat frame church, which is also under the pastoral care of Rev. Wolverton at present.

Catholic. - St. Bonifacius' Church was organized in 1850, by Rev. Father Benoit, and Rev. Father Baconcs, with forty families. Services were held at private houses until 1856, at which time they erected their present church build¬ ing in the village of Hamilton. Services are now held every alternate Sunday, by Rev. Father M. P. Fallize.

United Brethren. - In February, 1861, a class of this denomination was organized at Hamilton, with fifty constituent members. Rev. Jonathan Thomas wiis their Pastor. Soon after the organization, they erected a church at Hamilton, in which they held services until 1875. The building was a frame, 36x48 feet, and cost 81,200. In 1875, it was sold to the Methodist Episcopal denomination, and, in the same year, a new edifice was erected at Cedarville, 30x40 feet. It was dedicated by Elder David Holmes in April, 1877. The following named minis¬ ters have officiated as Pastors of the Church : Revs. William Moffett, J. Lower, G. W. Stewart, G. W. Tuttle, Jonathan Thomas, -J. K. Alwood, E. Miller, M. Mothlen, J. W. Martin, D. B. Keller, G. W. Dinius, G. W. Redman. The present number of members is fifty ; Rev. J. W. Martin, present Pastor.

The Sunday school was organized soon after the Church, and, while the con¬ gregation remained at Hamilton, it was only conducted during the summer. Since its removal to Cedarville, however, it has been maintained throughout the year. It has seveuty scholars enrolled, and, during the past year, had an average attend¬ ance of forty-nine. John Stcvick is the present Superintendent.

German Baptist. - Until 1876, the members of this denomination residing in Cedar Creek Township went to the southern part of De Kalb County to attend religious services. In June of that year, they withdrew from the Church there, and purchased the building formerly used as a house of worship by the Methodists at Hamilton, converting it into a church of their own denomination. It was dedi¬ cated by Rev. Jesse Calberd, of Kosciusko County, Ind. Rev. Harrison Ellson is the present Pastor, and the Church now has fifty members.

Alennonite. - The first services by this denomination were held in 1852, at the house of Jacob Saunders, by Rev. Craber ; and at this meeting the society was organized. Meetings were held regularly thereafter at the houses and barns of members of the congregation,, until 1874. In the summer of that year, they erected a frame church, about a mile east of Hamilton, which now has a member¬ ship of 100.

In 1860, several members withdrewfrom the Church, and organized a second church of the same denomination though independent of the old society.

A difference in views caused the separation, and the disaffected element have never erected a church, but still hold their meetings at private houses.

Apostolic Christian Church. - In the fall of 1862, two members of this denomination met at the house of Jacob Schwartz, and organized the Church. Rev. John Craybill. of Illinois, preached tlje first sermon. These two constituted the membership of the Church for nearly two years ; then others were added to the number, and meetings were held at the houses of the variods members. In 1878, they erected a church near the town of Hamilton, and on the first Sunday in May it was dedicated by Rev. Henry Sauders and Rev. Joseph Conrad, who still serve as Pastors of the Church. Since that time, services have been con¬ ducted every Sunday. The present number of members is thirty.

A few years ago, the residents of Cedarville were thrown into a state of great excitement by the reports of a party of strangers who came from the West, osten¬ sibly to hunt and trap along Cedar Creek. As the stream is not famous for its fish, or the game in its vicinity, a suspicion was awakened in the minds of the citizens that their mission was of another nature. They were watched, and were often found making excavations near a particular spot on the bank of the creek. Finally, it was rumored that these men had come from the West to seek for treasure, buried by the French and Indians in that spot, guided by the directions given them by an old Indian whose ancestors were among the tribes who lived here in those far-away days. When interrogated as to the truth of this report, they did not deny it, but continued digging from day to day. It is said that they finally exhumed a chest, rotten and worm eaten; but its contents were never made known. Why treasure was buried here, or whether it was ever buried or not, will remain questions for the curious. At any rate, the legends of the locality should not be lightly thrown aside, they are its legacies ; and. whether fanciful or true, are possessed of a degree of romantic interest, from their very uncertainty.

Indisputable traces of a former civilization have been discovered in the vicinity of Cedarville, at various times, according to the statement of Johu Pring, a resident of the township, and a reliable man. Mr. Pring settled in the township in 1848, and $oon after his arrival found, on the bank of the creek near Cedarville, some fragments of trace-chains, log-chains, etc., together with a heap of cinders, which confirmed his idea that a blacksmith's forge had been operated there or in the vicinity. As they were buried below the surface, he con¬ cluded they must have been there for years. On the morning of April 28, 1850, Mr. Pring, in company with a neighbor, George Hursch, started to Leo Mills to buy Hour. A storm had prevailed during the night of the 27th. and had uprooted a linn tree, which fell across the road. The friends separated as they neared the tree, and Mr. Pring's eyes tell upon what he regarded as a strange sight - a sword, buried nearly to the hilt in tile soft wood. He drew it out and took it home, where he kept it for several years. He afterward presented it to Mr. F. P. Randall, of Fort Wayne. Near the same date William Muller found on his farm a cannon ball. These facts would seem to indicate the presence of soldiers at some time; but it is not known that any battles were fought here.

On a later occasion (October,- 1 869), while in company with his sou, walkj iug ir the vicinity of Cedarville, Mr. Pring noticed a depression in the ground, and I thrust a stick into the soft earth, which yielded readily, striking a hard substance about two feet below the surface. He procured a spade, determined to satisfy his curiosity, and finally unearthed an beechen cross, fourteen feet in length, and bear¬ ing on its face the figures, " 1772," deeply carved. During the construction of a ! ditch on the farm of Peter Notestine. in April. 1879, the laborers exhumed a number of gigantic bones, together with several large teeth, probably the remains of some pre-historic animal. The teeth are three inches wide at the base, and

The village of Hamilton was laid out in February, 1849, and soon took precedence of its older neighbor, Cedarville. It is now quite a prosperous village. The following are its prinel'pd business men: General merchandise, John Schoerpf, A. C. Stewart; drugs, E. G. Wheelock, Casebeer & Co.; boot and shoe manufacturer, A. Lower; physicians, Dr. E. G. Wheelock, Dr. J. J. Cottie; | Justice of the Peace, C. W. Lindsey; steam saw-mill, Steviek & Hollopeter; pianino-mill, Frank Muller; steam flourin g-inill, Maxfiald & Co.; blacksmith and wagon^naker, Jacob Fink ; blacksmiths, Fred Deventer, Casper Harber; wagonmakers, J. L. Lepper, John Kazmier.

Leo Lodge, No. 224, A., F. & A. M., was organized under dispensation, January 10, 1859, and reo-ived its charter May 24 of the same year. Edward L. Knight was appointed W. M.; Jacob Bickhart, S. W.; C. H. Viberg, J. W.; William Daily, Secretary ; J. W. Hollopeter, Treasurer. The Lodge is now in good working order, and owns the building in which its meetings are held. It is free from debt, and in good condition financially. Its membership at present numbers thirty-nine. The present officers are as follows: E. C. Godfrey, W. M ; W. C. Hollopeter, S. W.; George W. Smith, J. W.; John Dever, Secretary, William Depew, Treasurer; Job C. Smith, S. D., George Viberg, J. D.

was laid out on the northeast quarter of Section 28, in May. 1S38. It contains one general merchandise store, and post office, kept by Z. T. Garrett ; one steam saw-mill, one blacksmith-shop, and one wagon-shop.

Peter Notestine

We now assume the difficult, but in no way unpleasant, task of writing the history of one who has wrestled with the hardships and extreme trials of the times when the seed of the rich and-glorious harvest of the propitious present was sown, and germinating now clothe it with opulence and splendor. We are to note the events of one who came to- this county in its earliest days, before the rude children of the forest had fully retreated and yielded in submission to the deter¬ mined and invincible force of an aggressive civilization ; before the learned, the culti¬ vated, had driven tEe' wild, the untamed, the untutored, away, to make room for the mighty changes that have since been wrought. The subject of this sketch has been an eye-witness to all this; has tasted the bitter and the sweets of frontierism, aud is counted among the old time-honored pioneers of this county. This ancient settler with silver head lives yet, vigorous, to tell the tales of the early years, and he recites them so as to interest the auditor. He was the fourth son and the sixtji child of Jacob and Barbara Notestine. and was born in Clear Creek Township, Fairfield County, in the far-famed Buckeye State, April 11. 1819. He caine to this county, with his parents, in the eleventh year of his age. ' They anchored at Fort Wayne on the 14th of July, 1S30, just one-half a century ago, lacking one year. Here they remained till the spring of 1874, when they moved and settled on the banks of the little St. Joseph River, in what is new Cedar Creek Township. This was the home of the parents till they were called from earth by the Father above, and they sleep in the soil purchased of the Government by William Gunder, a brother of old Mrs. Notestine, but afterward owned by Jacob, the father of Peter, and that sacred spot is yet a part of the Notestine estate. Mr. Notestine's early literary advantages were such as the pioneer youth generally enjoys, but nature compensated largely for lack of early opportunities, and be is credited by those who know him, with possessing good, strong common seuse - the best and only true sense in the world. Added to this, he is a close observer, and has been able to make himself conspicuous among his fellows. As a life business, he chose farming as a favorite pursuit, and to this he has given his best energies. He is more than ordinarily practical, aad the evidences are that he his been successful. A glance at his home and surroundings will at once impress the observer that he is a mast t in this safe and respectable avocation. On the 29th of June, 1843, he was married to Miss Jane Blair, daughter of John Blair, an old and respected pioneer of De Kalb County, this State. This union was blessed -with six children - Benjamin F., born April lb. 1844 , Emily J., born March 1,184$; Margaret C., born May 28,

1 850 ; Joseph H., born September 5. 1854 ; Ange'.ine A., born December 12, 1857; Mary A., born February 10, 1860. Mrs. Notestine died February 10, 1860, and on the 27th of July, 1802, Mr. Notestine was again maTried, this time to Miss Mary Rhinehart, a daughter of A. D. Rhinehart, an old settler of Knox County, Ohio. The fruits of this union have been three boys - Clermont L.,born December 1 2. 1864; j Charles M.. born Junuary21, 1867; Joho Pgborn October 17, 1869. Mr. Notestine ! Is not a church member of any organized sect, but indorses the doctrine of I universal salvation Politically, he is an unflinching, uncompromising Democrat. j Was a delegate from this township, that helped to organize the convention system in this county. He has identified himself as an active worker in the | ranks of Dencroeracy. Hi-* first Presidential vole was for Martin Van Bures, in 1 ,-i4l), and ho h is never fiiled to vote at any Presidential election since. He i ralli d even to the support of Horace Greeley. Mr. Notestine is a friend of 1 progress, and b.-lieves the world should move socially, morally and intellectually. ;

Daniel Notestine

This gentleman was born August 6, 1822, in Fairfield County, Ohio. His parents were Jacob and Barbara Notestine. He was one of a family of fifteen children. Six of them yet survive - four brothers and one sister, besides Daniel. His origin is German, each grandparent being a native of Germany. His father's family emigrated to Allen County in 1830, first settling at Fort Wayne July 14, young Daniel then being a lad of about eight years. Remaining in Fort Wayne until the spring of 1834, they removed to Cedar Creek Township.

Few schools, at that early day, being instituted in Allen County, the advan¬ tages for education were necessarily limited. But Daniel early evinced a fond¬ ness for realing, and by this medium acquired a goodly fund of information. He is a farmer from choice, and in that vocation has been successful. February 15, 1843, he married Miss Charlotte Lee, and August 20, 1857, their happy union was dissolved by the sad death of his companion, thus leaving eight small chil¬ dren motherless - George W., Andrew and Jackson (twins), John, Elizabeth, Catherine, Sarah and Cordelia. Mr. Notestine was a second time married, August 29, 1853, to Miss .Catherine Wagner. Six children have been the fruits of this, his second marriage - Henrietta, Jacob B., William, Nettie O., Anna R. and Daniel, Jr. Mr. Notestine was called upon to mourn the loss of his second companion December 25, 1871. Again, a third time, he was united in the holy bonds of matrimony, S 'ptelhber 8, 1872. His choice this time fell on Miss Susan McCrory. Each off his three wives were natives of Ohio. Mr. Notestine and wife are members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church.

Politically, Mr. Notestine's preferences have always been with the Demo¬ cratic party. His first vote for President was cast for Hon. James K. Polk. He has never been ambitious for politic d emoluments, yet has always taken an active interest in public enterprises having a tendency to better the condition and ele¬ vate the standard of society. Mr. Notestine has ever clung with ardent tenacity to home and family ; but, at the same time, an occasional journey afforded him special interest and pleasure. His tours of observation have extended through several of the States where the star of empire spreads its prowess.

Socially, Mr. Notestine is endowed with, many admirable qualities. As a business man, he is prudent and successful. His attachments are strong, and his motives honorable. He has been a citizen of Allen County almost half a cen¬ tury, so that he is truly a pioneea. He has experienced and witnessed the extremes of privation and hardship incident to such a life. Hunting was a favor¬ ite pastime; many are the deer that have fallen victims to the almost unerring aim of his rifle. Nor has black Bruin escaped death at his hands ; Mr. Notes¬ tine received credit for having tomahawked two in the wild forests of early days, beside killing three with his deadly rifle.

Closing this brief sketch, we pay a tribute to the grand did giant willow, stand¬ ing beside the hospitable home of our worthy subject. It was planted by the hand of its owner a third of a century gone. It is a huge tree, its trunk measuring ten feet and ten inches in circumference; its branches extending broad and high. It is a tower of strength and beauty, and an object of much interest and wonder to the passer-by. Still in his strength and vigor, may this early settler yet live many years, continue to enjoy the comforts of a pleasant home, and the esteem of a large circle of acquaintances.

David E. O. Herin

of Cedar Creek Township, the subject of whose life and family we are about to describe in outline, is a native of the old Keystone State ; his parents were also natives of the same State.

David E. O. was born in Columbia County, December 10, 1814, and moved to Ohio with his parents, James and Mary Herin, in the year 1828. They settled hi Seneca County, Ohio, long before the red man of the forest had vacated to make room for the triumphs of- those who were following the star of empire westward. Mr. Herin's parents never came any farther West ; they both died in Seneca County, and they sleep peacefully ou the soil of the State of their adoption.

David, of whom we now write, was the youngest of a family of ten children. One of his sisters preceded, and another followed, him to this State ; he came to this county and settled on his present farm in this township in the year 1847.

As facts and dates show that Mr. Herin came to Ohio in a very early day, his school opportunities were, of necessity, limited ; the demands of frontier life, and the surroundings, forbade the advantages of anything but light school train¬ ing. The homes of the settlers were at that time rude cabins, and schoolhouses were scarce and ruder yet. Mr. Herin has been a keen observer of passing events, and, in addition, by much reading at home, he is able to acquit himself creditably among the well informed. He is what is styled a self-educated, practical business man. Early in life, he settled in his mind that he would adopt farming as a live¬ lihood, hence he has had no aspirations for any other business, lias never troubled himself with the hazards and uncertainties of speculation, but has kept within the legitimate bounds of his chosen avocation. He makes no attempt at vain show, but believes what is worth doing should be done well.

The event of his marriage with Miss Elizabeth Umsted took place on the 10th day of January, 1839. Time, that speaks with unerring certainty, testifies that his choice was a fortunate one. Forty years of trials and experience have proved this union to be a perfectly agreeable and happy one. Mrs. Herin is a native of Maryland ; was the fourth child of Aaron and Elizabeth Umsted ; they died at Tiffin, Ohio, and rest in the silent city at that place. Mr. and Mrs. Herin are the parents of twelve children - six sons and six daughters; four wore born in Ohio : this old home of the parents in AUeu County is the nativity of the remainder.

The names of the children are Mary E., married to Michael Douglas ; Ann ^ E., now dead ; Herschel, died in the defense of the Stars and Stripes in the late rebellion; Malinda J., is the wife of A. L. Hollopeter ; Frances A., is the wife of Theron A. Clark; Ervin W., John R., James A.; Delilah, married Mar- I cellus Goddard (she is now deceased) ; Elbert U. (deceased), Rolla E. and Jennie E. This family of children have the credit of maintaining the highest respecta¬ bility. and living lives that are truly honorable. .

The parents are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. They have walked faithfully in that relation since uniting; niueof the children have followed the parents in the path of the higher Christian life.

In politics, Mr. Herin has been a lifelong Democrat. In temperance, he is | thoroughly and openly radical ; and, for the good of society, is anxious to see a general reform. The citizens of this township have honored Mr. Herin by elect¬ ing him Justice of the Peace, and then by giving him the office of Township Trustee three terms. He has been a true brother in the fraternity of Free- j masonry for more than twenty years.

Socially, Mr. Herin and family enjoy the highest respect and general confi¬ dence of the community where he has resided for more than three decades, and pursued thorougn^irf a straightforward and undeviating way, an uncompromising manly life.

William Depew

The historian grasps his pen with the fondest delight, to chronicle event8 connected with pioneer life, yet the task is no easy one, for language fails in its power to fully set forth the hardships and privations incident to that life. We have in the subject before us, the life of one who aided in paving the way to civ¬ ilization in its dawning days in this county. He came here at the early date of November 1, 1836, and settled with his three brothers in the dense forests of this township. Here he began life in earnest, with a determination to succeed ; he knew that the obstacles were many, and the task almost herculean ; but his purposes were firm and his courage undaunted, and he nerved himself | up to all the conditions and the severe struggles that stared him so boldly | in the face. He was born in Guernsey County, Ohio, on the 7th of

December, 1814. He left his native county with his parents, Isaac arid Margaret Depew, in the year 1827, and moved to Marion Couuty, of the same State. Here they resided till they started for this county, the present home of William, of whom we now write. William is one of a family of thirteen j children, of whom six are now living. His mother died in this county, and his | father in De Kalb County, of this State; both lie buried in the cemetery at Leo. Mr. Depew received the most of his school-book education in the common schools of his native State ; his advantages being decidedly limited while there. He has an unusual taste for reading, as a well-selected library in his now cozy home appears in evidence ; he is a farmer from choice - by industry, by prudent mana"ement, by an untiring perseverance, he has made his chosen vocation a real success; he has transformed a small wilderness into a beautiful, fertile farm. Mr. Depew has been twice married ; the first marriage was with Miss Eunice B. Moore, of De Kalb County, this State, August 9, 1838; she was a native of Wayne County, Ohio, and came to this State two years previous; was boin Janu¬ ary 15, 1818. This union was blessed with three sons, only one of whom is now living. Their names are Isaac N., born June 18, 1839 ; Elijah J., born June 10. 1841 ; William M., born May 19, 1843. Isaac N. died January 17, 1870; Elijah J. died in the service of his country, at Paducah, Ky., March 6, 1862 a fine scholar, but his patriotism and loyalty urged him to serve his country in the capacity of a soldier. Mrs. Depew passed from earth to eternity, March 3, 1878, leaving a vacancy in the home circle that she had always made so pleas¬ ant, and in which she had proved herself a blessing for over forty years. She was kind, amiable and affectionate, and filled the place of neighbor, wife and mother with true honor. Mr. Depew, feeling it better to have a companion to share with him his joys, his prosperity, and all the trials and triumphs of life, chose for this partner the estimable Mrs. Rhotehannel, of Fort Wayne, who was a native of Miami County, Ohio. Her maiden name was Elizabeth J. Cruea. Both parties were made one March 27, 1879, and she is now the devoted wife and cheerful companion of Mr. Depew's home. Mr. Depew was raised in the Quaker faith, and adheres strongly to the simplicity of the Friends, although he has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church many years. Politically, lie has been a Republican; but recently he has assumed an independent course, and sup¬ ports men rather than platforms. He belongs to the Ancient Order of Masons. Socially, he is a kind and obliging neighbor, a trustworthy friend, and those who know him best repose in him an unshaken confidence.

affords, is iiiving his own children full advantages. Was married August 28, 1859, to Rebecca Depew, their children having been seven in number, six still living. Names as follows: George Washington, born July 17, 1860 ; Margarette Delilah, born September 2, 1861; Joseph Edmund, born November 12. 1862; Mary Eliza, born April 29, 1864 ; Caroline, born in August, 1866 ; Martha Ellen, born April 24, 1869; Samantha B., born March 23, 1875.

In religion, Mr. and Mrs. Hamm hold to the faith of the Apostolic Christian belief. In politics, Mr. Hamm is Independent. - He has never sought purfhe office, but is a farmer of a high order. His substantial improvements and welltilled fields bear unmistakable evidence of his industry and good taste, and of his possessing a true pride in the vocation he follows. His farm comprises 160 acres, being second to none in his township.

Mrs. Hamm was the daughter of Joseph and Delilah Depew. She was the third child in a family of four - two brothel's and two sisters. Her father was an- early settler of De Kalb County, this State, and is yet living. Her mother died in this county in the year of 1842.

In closing, we wish to Mr. and Mrs. Hamm that a long life may still be spread out before them, allowing them from the fruits of their toil yet many enjoyments ; allowing them to continue to receive from the community by which they are encircled that respect which only true lives merit.

CAPT. WILLIAM C.«HOLLOPETER is a sou of Rev. Andrew Hollopeter, who was a native of Pennsylvania, and a minister of the Gospel in the Methodist Episcopal Church for nearly fifty jears. His mother's maiden name was Catherine Edmonds, Ohio being her native State.

William C. was the eldest of seven children, three yet living in Allen Countv, and one - a sister - living in De Kalb County of this State. A brother, still living in this county, was a veteran soldier in the Eleventh Indiana Volun¬ teer Infantry during the late war. The subject of our sketch was born in Wayne County, Ohio, August 24, 1833. In youth he had moderate opportunities, only, for acquiring an education. He improved well such opportunities, however, thus 1 preparing himself to act a practical part in life's dealings. His father, with family, removed from Ohio to this county in March, 1847, making a choice of settling in Cedar Creek Township. Farming was their pursuit, and William C. continued with his parents, aiding- at this vocation, until the summer of 1854, when he became of age.

For a period forward from that time, in the struggle for self-maintenance, he I directed his energies alternately at teaching a district school during the winters j and at farming during the summers. He was joined in marriage, May 18, 1858,

1 Ind.; born April 22, 1839. Seven children have been the fruits of this marriage, - six of them still living - viz.: Milton R. (deceased), Charles McPherson, Ophelia May, Walter M. M., Ellen Gertrude, Rosa Belle and Herbert Solon.

A patriot to his country, on August 28, 1862, to help maintain the Stars aud Stripes, he enlisted as a private soldier in Company C, Eighty-eighth Regiment I Indiana Volunteer Infantry. At the organization of the company, he was I appointed Corporal ; on February 18, 1863, he was advanced to First Lieutenant of his company, and on October 24 following, was commissioned its Captain. He I was with his company and regiment during their entire service - the same being ; attached to the Army of the Cumberland. He was in seventeen distinct engage- : ments and received two severe wounds; fought under Gens. Roseeranz and Thomas, and participated in Sherman's march to the sea. Remaining in the service till after the surrender, until the old flag was again unfurled to every State and to every people of our broad Union (without dispute), Capt. Hollopeter received his discharge at Washington, D. C-, June 7. 1865. Following his dis¬ charge, he immediately returned to the bosom of his family and to the quiet avo¬ cations of civil life in Cedar Creek Township. Religiously, he has been an exem- ! pi ary member of the Methodist Episcopal Church since the age of sixteen, and his estimable wife since a young girl of nine years. Has ever been a stanch friend of temperance. In politics, a firm Republican, yet not an aspirant for political honors. For the past fifteen years has belonged to the Order ol A.. F. ck A. M. He is an industrious, good citizen; one whose influence for the right is ever felt. Is an ever willing advocate and supporter of that which elevates while he is just os ready and anxious to repudiate and defeat that which debases. Within the large circle of his acquaintance he is universally esteemed.

was born on the 3d day of March, 1834, in Alsace, France, near the city of Strasbourg. He was the namesake of his father, - his mother's name being Margaret. Was the oldest of four children, all yet living.

To escape being drafted into the army of France, then about to take part, as an allied force, in the Crimean war, he fled, seeking refuge and a home on free American soil. Like Joshua of old, he was sent to spy a country which should become the future abode of the Hamm family. This was in 1854, young Adam then being twenty years of age. The following year, the family also emigrated to this country, settling in Allen County, Ind., where, ever since, they have resided, all being engaged in agriculture.

Mr. Hamm was educated in the French and German schools, and made good proficiency in the branches taught at that time in those schools. He now reads the English readily, having learned to. do so by patient, persevering prac¬ tice at his own fireside. Is a friend to education, and, to the extent his township

Christian J. Schlatter

The subject of this biography is of foreign birth - he is of stanch old Ger¬ man stock ; he came to this country with his parents in the year 1852 - a child but two years of age. The family settled, at that time, in Cedar Creek Town¬ ship, Allen Co., Ind., where they have since continued to live, aud have borne an honorable name. The father of the above-named genth man was Christian ; he died during the great centennial year, at the age of fifty-one; was a man of thrift and respectability. His widow, the mother of Christian. Jr.,, is still living on the old homestead. Her name is Barbara. She has a fine farm' and is in excellent circumstances. Mr. Schlatter is one of five children - four brothers and one sister - the brothers and sister all reside at the old paternal home. Mr. Schlatter received his- education in the common schools of this township. He excelled in the branches he studied, and, although his time in school was quite limited, because his labor was needed by his father on the farm, yet he has what is regnvded as a good business education, and is a man of practical business ideas. Ilg Was mar¬ ried, February 2, 1873, to Miss Bena D.Nofziger,an amiable lady of Fulton County, Ohio ; she was a native of that county - four years her husband's junior, and had always resided there up to the time she came as a bride to Indiana. As the result of this marriage they have had two children - Gertrude Jerusha, born December 20, 1875, died August (5, 1870*; Jessie Pearl, born April 3, 1879. Mr. and Mrs. Schlatter were both reared in the German Baptist faith, but are not mem¬ bers of any church. They take a highly moral course in-life, and are exemplary injhat direction, in the community where they live. They support the church f|ftts beneficial effects on society, and stand up squarely to all that will advance its highest and lxjst interests Mr. Schlatter's integrity is known and established.

In politics, he allies himself to the Democratic interests, but. is quite liberal in his partisan views. He has resided on his present farm but five years. He has made those years tell, in making improvements of all kinds, that have added to its pro¬ ductiveness and appearance. He is a man of order ; a judicious manager; genial as a companion and associate- has many of the elements of popularity ; is full of the snap and vim that mearuprogress and success. Our patrons will be pleased to find a view of his home on another page of this history.

Conrad H. Viberg

The subject of this narrative was born in Germany, near the city of Han¬ over, March 6, 1809. He was the son of Con fad and Caroline Viberg, both parents being native Germans, and both spending the full measure of their lives in their native land. Mr. Viberg came to this country in 1834, intending to return to the land of his nativity q£cr a sojourn of four or five years. But, admiring the institutions here, and enjpying his associations so agreeably, he had formed endearing attachments - had become settled and c-outented. Besides, he had noted the superior advantages the poor man of- industry here enjoyed, by way of acquiring a competence. These combined inducements determined his perma¬ nent continuance on this side of the Atlantic.

He first^cttlcd in Fairfield County, Ohio, and was there united in marriage with Miss Arereline Abright, March 6, 1835, she having emigrated from Ger¬ many the previous year. - - *

Mr. Yiburg-was the second in a family of seven children, and the only one of the family who has ever come across the sea. Remaining five years in Fairfield

County, Indiana

County, 'he then removed to Williams County, of the same State. There he bought eighty acres of wild land, commencing at once to clear and improve. At the end of one year, however, he withdrew from this new farm, in seeking employ¬ ment in the construction of the Wabash & Erie Canal. Finally, selling his farm, he engaged as foreman with a canal contractor (Col. Lemuel Jones). This position he held three successive years. Then, resuming his former pursuit (farming), for one season, he again accepted a situation as foreman with Col. Jones, until the completion of the canal.

Moving then to Huntington County, this State, he first leased, and later purchased of his former employer (Col Jones), the property known as the "Roa¬ noke farm." Remaining there a number of years, he again changed locations, this time settling on his present farm in Cedar Creek Township, this count; . where he has since continued to reside with entire contentment.

Twenty-four years here of diligent toil have resulted in many substanti;d improvements. In fact, his farm abounds in evidences of a high ordeiu-ul husbandry.

Mrs. Viberg was the daughter of Christ and Dorthe^Abright. Both parents died in Germany, the land of their birth. Mrs. Vibe($. wmrtme of three sisters. One of the other sisters accompanied her to America: Mr. and Mrs. Viberg have reared a family of mine children, fouf of them rtthv living. Naming in order of birth we have - Lucinda, who married John Yahuey ; Harmon B.. who married Augusta Nettleherst; Sophia, who is th6'* wife of Rev. Florence Douglas, now Pastor of the Lutheran Church at La Otto, this county; Mary. Russellus L., Eliza, Lemuel A.; George H., who married Miss Mary Shambaugh and lives near his parents, and Sarah J., who married Samuel McCfory. Thi> venerable couple are the grandparents of twenty-two children; also have two great-grandchildren, one living and one dead.

Mr. Viberg and wife are both consistent members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. The sacred edifice wherein they worship is situated on one corner of Mr. Yiberg's farm. The lot it occupies, and cemetery grounds adja¬ cent, he donated the society; also contributed very largely toward the building of their house of worship. He has always given liberally in support of the organization, and has continuously served as one of its officers.

Mr. Viberg's political affinities have ever been with the Democratic party. In all public enterprises having a beneficial tendency, he has ever stood ready to give an ardent support. Honesty and integrity make up life's platform with him, his word being held in the highest estimation.

Source changes here: from Valley of the Upper Maumee River, with Historical Account of Allen County and the City of Fort Wayne, Indiana, published 1889; 137 words in this source stream.

Cedar Creek Township

The region about the confluence of Cedar creek and the St. Joseph river appears to have been the seat of villages both of those mysterious people, the mound-builders, and of Indians, at a remote epoch, and here it is probable that missionaries erected the cross at a date never recorded in history. During the present era the first to make a permanent home were Jacob Notestine and family, who in the spring of 1834, went up the St. Joseph in a flat-boat and settled near the mouth of Cedar creek. He found there a man named Wood, who had passed the winter, but eagerl}- a\'ailed himself of the boat to remove his possessions, and start for the east. The early settlers found here traces of former occupation, at least of the visits of the French. William Muller,