Eel River Township

Eel River Township

. This is tlie uortLwest township of the county, and is bounded as follows : On the north by Boone County, on the east by Union and Center townships, on the south by Marion Townsliip and Putnam County, and on the west by Putnam and Montgomery counties. In number of streams and in natural drainages, Eel River Township is equal to Guilford, except that the east and west sides of the townshipifrom its center toward the north, is not well drained by these streams, and is rather flat, but no part of the township may be called wet land. In the southwest corner of Eel River Township are the highest hills in Hendricks County, and just below where Rock Branch flows into Eel River, some of the hills rise 100 feet from the bed of the stream, and are covered with native evergreen trees.

Near the southwest corner of the township, from difterent directions, come together five considerable streams, to form Eel River proper. These five streams spread out orer the township like a fan, and make as many beautiful valleys, which are separated bv undulating ridges which were originally covered with a dense growth of sugar maple, walnut, oak and poplar trees. From many points in the township extensive tracts of country may be seen at one view; and as the delighted beholder looks out upon vistas of rich farm land, stretching down the valleya, Tvitli alternating fields of dark green corn or golden wliert, while upon either side stretch away beautiful undulating hills, diversified by open woodland and cleared fields, upon which hundreds of fiit, sleek cattle are feedinoupon the rich carpet of blue grass, or ruminating beneath some mighty old monarch of the primeval forest, he can hardly realize that be lias before him a realitj", and tliat the picture he sees is not a dream about some fairj land. As may be already inferred, there is little land in Eel River Township that is not first-class. The soil is uniformly good, and is adapted to grain and grass alike.

In the spring of 1S24 Noah Bateman and Eeuben Claypool settled in this township a mile south of North Salem, and were followed in the fall by John Claypool and John S. "Woodward. Among those who located in the township previous to 1830 were James Trotter, Ileury Bales, J. and Martha Page, John F.Benson, Eobert Covey, Enoch Davis and his sons, William, Frank and Jesse; Willian^ Dewitt, Dr. Collins, Andrew Clifton, James Campbell, Mr. Cram and the Fenningtons. John F. Benson built the first mill in the county on Eock Branch, in 1820. Colonel Kichols says it was a very patient and industrious mill, but " rather slow."

Mr. Benson's mill stood only a few years, and in 1829 Mr. Crum built a mill on Eel Fiver, not far from the location of the Benson mill. As early as 1830 some one started a distillery at Crum's mills. This was the first distillery in the county. It is believed that there has never been a distillery in any otlier township except Centei-, but there was, from, time to time, a number of different distilleries in Eel Fiver Township, which, in an early day, bore mucdi fruit in the form of drunkenness and immorality; but with the still-house passed awa}- its effects, and in its ph.co the tenets of temperance and religion have brought forth sobriety, morality and prosperity.

Bottlder Club

In defense of their property, which was often taken and sold by the constable, the citizens passed a "stay law," which they denominated a "boulder club." Whenever the constable advertised any property for sale, on the night before the sale the club would carry a few bushels of boulders and pile them upon the premises as a legal ncrtice to the constable not to offer the property for sale.

Justice Hartman was required by the County Court, once upon a time, to appear before it with his docket as evidence in a certain cause in hearing, and when the docket was brought into court.

neither the 'Squire himself, the Court, the Clerk, nor any of the Ifiwvers conld read a single word of it. Mr. Hartman sugsfested that "Bill" Davis be sent for, as he had helped him out of several such quandaries, and could read " bird tracks."

Fiest Chuech And School

The first church organization in the township was a Regular Baptist, which was organized at Round Town, by the Peuningtons aud others, at an unknown date.

The first school was taught about 1S29, ia a house one-half mile southeast of North Salem, by "William Dewitt. This man had fled from Now Orleans for some crime, joined a pirate vessel, and with it sailed more than once around the world, and finally left the vessel to seek a new and different life in the wilds of the JS'orth. He was a man of intelligence, and was one of the most successful pioneer instructors in Hendricks County. He was one of the principal teachers of Eel River Township for a number of years. He died near North Salem at the advanced age of 115.' He used to say to his neighbors, after he was passed 100 years old, that if he did not get out of this wet country, he would never again be the man he had been.

Justices of the Peace: Reuben Claypool, 1S2G (resigned 1S29); Christian Hartman, 1S29; Young L. Hughes, 1830; William Trotter, 1S32; William Davis, 1834; William Trotter, 1837; Matthew Mark, 1839; William Trotter, 1842; Rybert D. Covey, 1845; William Trotter, 1847; Thompson Fanner, 18-49; Jacob G. Fanght, 1850; Preston Pennington, 1851; John S. Woodart and Robert D. Covey, 1855; John J. McPhetridge and Preston Pennington, 1859; C. B. Trowbridge, 1860; Robert D. Covey, 1863; A. H. Proctor, 1864; Jacob H. Fleece, 1867; Aaron Smith and Minatree Pennington, 1868; Hiram T- Storm and Joseph Jones, 1870; W. H. Fleece and W. S. Pound, 1871; Robert D. Covey, 1872; E. T. Robbins and Miciiaol Higgins, 1874; Buford Howell, 1876; W. J. K. P. Jones, 1878; Milton Lowder and William D. Long, -ISSO; Milton Lowder and Elisha Christie, 1884.

First Electiojt

names of twenty-seven who voted at that election, and includes nearly all of the first settlers. Here is the list, with the spelling preserved as in the poll-book: Abel Penning, Lewis Benson, Jacob Shoemaker, William Turner, Jacob Crumb, Adis Jones, .James Fowlar, Jesse Turner, John Warker, hampton Pennington, Danniel Turner, John Woodard, John Turner, David Evans, Edward Turner, William Ilinton, David Claypool, Win Jones, Christain Hartman, John Fowler, David Claypool, Seign., Noah bateman, Young L, Hugs, John Claypool, Alvah Benson, Little Hugs and William Fowler.

At this election Thomas H. Blake, for Congress, received twentyseven votes; Josiah F. Polk, for Senator, thirteen; Calvin Fletcher, nine, and John W. Reding, five; Tliomas J. Matlock, for Representative, eighteen; John Simms, six, and Isaiah Drury, 3; John Dunn, for Sheriff, twenty-five, and Robert Cooper, two; Preston Pennington, for Coroner, thirteen.

Two years later, at tlie presidei tial election of 1828, tlie number of votes had increased to forty-two. Of these, Andrew Jackson received thirty-five, and John Quincy Adams received seven. Politically, the township has been rather inconstant. The voters are now nearly divided between the two great parties, but in the past sixty years the tov/iiship has given majorities to one party or another with no regularity. Following is the vote fur President at each election from 1S2S to ISSi, inclusive:

Statistical

North Salem, the only village in the township, was laid out in 1835, by John and David Claypool and John S. "Woodward. It enjoyed a nioderate degree of prosperity until the recent construction of the I., B. & S. Railroad, since when it has flourished beyond the dreams of its founders. Its population is now 500, and its business is rapidly growing. Those now in business at North Salem are enumerated in the following list : J. D. Adair, postofRce; T.J. Adams, physician; J. T. Bailey, boots and shoes; Daniel Bales, pool-room; John P. Chapman, livery stable; Chadd & Chadd, liverv stable; J. M. Carter, carpenter; "W.C. Conover, crrpenter; Davis & Davis, stock dealers; F. M. Davis, miller; E. F. Davis, blacksmith; Davis &Smith, furniture and undertaking; Davis Bros., restaurant; Granville Davis, harness; Fleece & Fleece, hardware; W. 11. Fleece, general store; M. J. Fleece, Fleece House; L. W. Hole, station agent; G. E. Hackley, W. H. Hackley, blacksmiths; Scott Hiett, meat market; Gardner & Hockcr, dry-goods; Napoleon Hackley, barber; Gord. Hedge, barber; Powell Haines, pool-room; W. J. K. P. Jones, druggist; J. S. Linn, boots and shoes; J. A. Lytle, general store; W. ^Y. Leach, grocer; Lumpkin & Davidson, dry-goods; J. S. Linn, attorney; Zacli. Reagan, carpenter; Benjamin Robbins, carpenter; J. D. Roberts, phy3ician;|M. D. Ribble, druggist; G. G. Sowder, wagL n shop; Milton Sowder, Justice of the Peace ; Surber & Clay, stock dealers; J. M. Surber, boarding house; "Worley & Son, skatirg rink.

The JletAodist Episcopal Church is the oldest at North Salen, and was organised over lifty years ago. Reuben Claypool was a Methodist minister, and ])reached to his neighbors in their private cabins from the earliest date, and about 1833 a class was formed.

Among the prominent early members were John S. and Charity "Woodward, John Claypool, wife and children, Chester and JVIartha Page, Mrs. Jerusha Covey, and William and Eleanor Jones and family. The present church, the second belonging to the society, was built before the war, at a cost of §1,200. The membership is about eighty-five, and services are held every Sunday, by Dr. J. L. "Smith, of Jamestown, who commenced his labors here in September, ISSJr. He was preceded by T. F. Drake, two years; W. Fletcher Clark, three years; David Hanley, one year, and D. P. McLain, two years.

The Christian Church was organized in 1837, with Charles Fleece and Thompson Farmer as Elders. It has "between 300 and 400 members. Services are held monthly, by Rev. 0, P. Bado-er, of Greencastle. He was preceded by Revs. D. Collins, one year; W. B. F. Treat, two years; A. J. Frank, three years; William Holt and A. Plunkett. The Sunday-school is under the superintendeucy of George H. Duncan.

The Baptist Church was organized before the war, and the building erected during the war, at a cost of $1,000. Among the first members were Preston Pennington, Elizabeth Ballard (senior and junior), Susan, Levi, Mary and Eliza Pennington, Thomas, Susan and George Barber, John I^. and Mary Y. Clemens, and Eaton Bales. There are now about sixty members. Rev. John Case commenced preaching here before the war, and died near hereafter the war. Rev. W. M. Benson, of near Danville, has officiated ever since. Services are held monthly.

North Salem Lodge, No. 158, /. 0. 0. F., was chartered April 15, 1SG5, with the following first members : William Adair, John S. Woodward, James White, John M. Hensley, James Shakles and H. W. Hackley. The present officers are: James K. Britton, N. G.;. James M. Davis, V. G.; W. W. Hocker, Rec. Sec; S. F. Fleece, Perm. Sec. ; A. J. Weekly, Treasurer. The order

S. Chculd., senior member ofthe firm of Chadd (feChadd, proprietors of livery stable, was born Dae. 22, lS-±fJ, in Putnam County, Ind. He is a son of Samuel and Sarah Chadd, natives of Kentucky, who came to Putnam County' in 1836, where the father died in August, ISSO. His mother still resides in Putnam County. They had a family of six children - John T., David M., William J., James S., America J. (deceased), and ilary M. Our subject was reared in Putnam County and followed farming the most of his time till he removed to Hendricks County, when he continued his agricultural pursuits till ISSO. He owns about forty acres of land in Putnam County. In November, 1880, he, in connection with Charles "W. Carver, opened a livery stable at North Salem. This partnership continued about two years, when Mr. Carver retired from the firm, and his brother-in-law, Samuel M. Chadd, became a partner. "March 1.5, 1871, he was married to Miss Mary E. Chadd, daughter of David and Mary A. Chadd, who were early settlers of Marion Township, this county. To them has been born one cliild - Dora M., born Jan. 4, 1S72. Mr. David Chadd has been twice married, and was the father of eleven children - Cynthia, Mary E., Lee A., David A., George M., James W., Samuel M., Ruth, Iva O., John C. (deceased) and Susan R. (deceased). Chadd & Chadd are squaredealing, enterprising business men, and have carried on their present business successfully. In politics they are Democrats.

Hendey'son Cooh, deceased, was born Aug. 16, 1820, in Surrey County, N. C, a son of John and Edith J. Cook, who were also natives of North Carolina. He came to Hendricks County, Ind., in 1844, and was there marrijd to Miss Nancy J. Banta, who was born at Madison, Ind., Marjii 31, 1832, a daughter of Cornelius and Rebecca (Eccles) Banta. Seven children have been born to them - Horace G., Edgar W. (deceased). Lulu M., Edith R., John B., Charles M^and Edward J. Tliree of the above named-^John,

Edith and Lulu - are teaclicrs in the public schools of this county. Mr. Cook settled on a farm in the west part of the township in March, 1872, where lie remained till liis death, which occurred Sept. 23, ISSi. He was esteemed by all who knew him for hismany virtues and sterling integrity. In politics he affiliated witb the Republican party. His widow still resides on the home farm^ and is the owner of 160 acres of land in a good state of cultivation.

William E. Cox, son of Daniel H. and Lucinda Co.x, was born June 10, 1S32, in Montgomery County, Ind. His parents were natives of Kentucky, who came to Montgomery County, Ind., irt an early day. Tiiey had a family of nine children, seven still living - William E., Mary E. , Nancy J., Joseph A., Lucinda E.,, George M. and Daniel L. John and James are deceased. Our subject was reared on a farm, and received only a limited education. He has followed fanning pursuits through life. He resides in th& eastern part of this township. His first wife was Sarah Doyel, daughter of Farmer and Elizabeth Doyel, of Montgomery County, After her death he was married to Sarah Ray, daughter of Carsoo and Cynthia Ray, also of Montgon-.ery County. To tliis union was born one child, named Samuel C. He was again married, tins time to Mary Plummer, daughter of Joseph and Ann Flummery the latter deceased. Mr. Cox has served his township as School Director. In politics he affiliates with the Denaocratic party. He is a member of the' Christian church, and his wife belongs to the Methodist E]jiscopal church.

Robert F . Davis is a native of Hendricks County, born Feb. i^ 1852, a son of AValter and Mary M. Davis, the latter deceased. He was reared and educated in the district schools of his native county. Feb. 1, 1872, he was united in marriage to Miss Eliza Fritchett, born April 22, 1853, in Hendricks County, a daughter of James and Elizabeth Fritchett, natives of Kentucky, now residents of Union Township, this county. They have two children - Eulalie W., born Feb. 5, 1873, and Mary B., born April 23, 1877. Mr. Davis has been successful in all his business undertakings, and is now the owner of a good farm in the eastern portion of Eel River Township. Folifically he is a Frohibitionist. Both he and bis wife are worthy members of tae Christian church.

Walter Davis, son of Nathan and Nancy Davis, was born Dec- 12, 1823, in Montgomery County, Ky. His father was born \v, Kentucky and his mother in Virginia. They were among the first settlers of Eel River Township, where Mr. Davis entered a large tract of land, and died in 1848, his wife having died several years previous. Ten children were born to them - Louisa, John, Elizabeth, Walter, Quincy, Catherine, William, Franklin, Susan, Marion, five of whom are deceased - Louisa, Elizabeth, Catherine, Robert Franklin and Susan Ann. Walter Davis was married Jan. 26, 1843, to Mary M. Spears, and to them eight children were born - Quincy A., Martha E., Naiicy A., Kobert F., Francis, Charles E., John Spears and Lafayette, of whom John S. and Lafayette are deceased. Mrs. Davis died June 16, 1S61, and Mr. Davis was married again April li, 1S63, to Mary A. Scott, of Kentucky, and to them were born six children - Bettie L. (deceased), Walters., Lorenzo D., K.Nynthe, Thomas C.,-EdgarL. Mrs. Davis died in i^ovember, 1873, and he was married again to Matilda South Dec. 8, 1875. Mr. Davis has been engaged in farming from boyhood and is one of the heading agriculturists in this township. He is the owner of 505 acres of land. He is a member of the Methodist church.

William Davis, a prominont farmer of Eel River Township, was born April 22, 1820, in Montgomery County, Ky. His parents were Enoch and Nancy Davis, natives of Virginia. They came to Hendricks' County, Ind., and settled in this township where tlioy remained till their death. Si.x of their children are still living - Jesse,- Frank, William, Ciiarles M., Owen and John. Our subject was reared to manhood on a farm and "received but a limited education. May 21, 181:0, he was married to Catherine Zimmerman, daughter of John and ISTancy (Myers) Zimmerman, natives of North Carolina and Kentucky respectively, who came to this county in 1833. To them have been born twelve children - Sirali E., wife of Isaac N. Yannice; Nancy, v/ife of George Duncan; Minerva J., wife of James Britten; Mary, deceased wife of Frank Frame; Ammda, wife of James Hunt; Jesse F., married Alice McPiietridge; John E., married Mary Cook; Frances, wife of Frank Fleece; Clarinda, wife of John Page; Vilitia B., married Richard Hypes; Josephus, married Ella Benson; and Minnie M. They have also living with them a grandchild, name Minnie O Frame. In 1340 Mr. and Mrs. Davis settled on the homestead now occupied by them, aid .vhich contains 190 acres of well cultivated land. Tliey are both earnest members of the Christian church, he being an Elder of the same for twenty-five years.

History Of Hkndkicks Cod Ntt

son of John and Mary (Fields) Durham. His parents were natives of Kentucky, who came to Montgomery County among the early settlers. His father was twice married and had by his first wife five children - Henry C, John, Snsan A., Mary F. ai'j James W. He was married a second time to Sarah Stubbins, of Montgomery County, and to this union were born eiglit children - Celia, Mattie J., Sarah D., Samuel W., Emma B., Charles, Nancy J. and Harry. He died in Montgomery County, after a life of great usefulness, in May, 1S76. Our subject was reared and educated in the common schools of his native county. He was married Dec. 22, 1SG5, to Miss Lee A., daughter of Lee and Miranda Tucker. They have I had seven children - Charles 0., Frank C, John L., Clarence S., Harry C, Thomas G. and Mary F. In 1865 Mr. Durham settled on his present farm in this township and is the owner of 460 acres of improved land. He is now seiving his fourth year as Trustee of this township. Politically he affiliates with the Democratic party.

James M. Emmons was born Oct. 8, 1828, in Giles County, Va., a son of Jayhew and Sarah Emmons. His parents came to Hendricks County, Ind., in 1833, locating in Marion Township. In 1840 they settled in Eel River Township and here our subject grew to manhood. He learned the carpenter's trade wliich ho followed alternately witli farming until 1S7S, in which year he was elected by the Republican party, Sheriff of Hendricks County, serving as such two terms. He resided in Korth Salem from 1849 till 1S7S when he removed to Danville, but in March, 1883, he returned to Eel River Township and has since resided in the southern portion of it. He was married Jan. 20, 1853, to Elizabeth .J. Trotter, daughter of .James and Sa:-ah Trotter, natives of Virginia, and early settlers of this county. To Mr. and Mrs. Emmons have been born eleven childreu - Sarah C, James O., Charles E., Lon D., Ida M., Oliver J., Eldred E., Lulu G., Adinah D., John W., and Stanley. The last two mentioned are deceased. Mr. Emmons enlisted in-May, 1864, as Second Lieutenant of Company H, One Hundred and Thirty-second Indiana Infantry, in the 100-days service, andserved principally in Tennessee and Alabama. In February, 1865, he re-enlisted, this time in Company E, One Hundred and Forty-eighth Regiment, and served until the following September, priucipally in Tennessee, when he received an honorable discharge at Nashville. Both Mr. Emmons and his wife are members of the Christian church, and respected members of society.

Clinton F. Fleece, M. D., deceased, was born in Boyle County, Ky. , Jan. 2, 1818, and in 1810 he graduated at the Medical College in Louisville, Ky. He remained in Kentucky till 1858, when he removed to Trenton, Mo., and subsequently came to North Saleui, Ind. In 1883 he went to Kansas but returned to North Salem the followinj^ year. He received a stroke of paralysis in May, 18S1, and a second and fatal stroke Oct. 22, following. He died in Octo- . ber, 1884, and was buried with Masonic honors hy his brethren ot the North Salem lodge. He was married four times, his last wife being !Miss Sarah J. Crose, daughter of George "W. and Mahala Crose, and to this union were born two children - Carrie E. and Effie M. He left a widow and seven children to mourn his death. Mr. Fleece was an eminently successful physician and always discharged the duties of his calling in a conscientious manner. In him Hendricks County lost one of her most worthy citizens and the medical profession an able member.

Jacob H. Fleece was born June 4, 1829, near Danville, Ky. He was a son of Charles and Mar}' (Harlan) Fleece, who came to this township in 1836. He was reared to manhood in Hendricks County and received a common-school education. In October, 1853, he was married to Miss Lettie Ashby, daughter of Silas and Nancy Ashby, of Putnam County, lad. They are the parents of three children - Silas F., Lulie and Joseph. In 1853 he, in connection with his brother, John Fleece, engaged in the mercantile business at Ladoga, Montgomery County, in which he continued till 1854, when he returned to his farm in this township. Having been elected County Recorder in the fall of 1859 he assumed the duties of his ofdce in the spring of 1860, serving till the fall of 1861 when he resigned. In September, 1861, he was made Captain of Company A, Fifty-first Indiana Infantry, and remained in the service till September, 1862, when he tendered bis resignation. He is at present serving his second term as Hendricks Conuty's Representative in the Legislature, reflecting credit upon himself as well as his constituents. Mr. Fleece is the owner of 273 acres of wellimproved land. He is a member of the Masonic order and also belongs to the Grand Army of the Republsc. He and his wife arc members of the Christian church. - o

Edmund R. ^aofZey, deceased, was borm Oct. 11, 1821, in North Carolina, son of James T. and Mary Hadlej, who were among the early settlers of Marion Township, this county. He received an education such as the common schools of his day aflorded, and endured many of the hardships of pioneer life. He was married Oct. 21, 1S41, to Sarah A. Ragan, a native of Mercer County, Ky., born Nov. 2S, 1822. She was a daughter of Abner A. and Mary Ragan, who were early settlers of Hendricks County. To this union were born eight children of whom six survive - Mary J., Sophia E., James A., Giliun T., William J., and Eva P. John E. .and Henry are deceased. In 1865 Mr. Hadley located in Eel River Township where lie resided till his death, which occurred May 30, 1875. He was a member of the Christian church the greater part of liis life and his true Christian spirit was recognized by all who knew him. His widow resides on tlie homestead. She is a member of the Christian cluircli.

Tobias D. Hays was born Jan. 16, 1S46, in Carter County, East Tenn. In 186-1 he enlisted in the Union service at Knoxville, East Tenn., in the Quartermaster's dej^artment, and served till the close of tlie war. In the spring of 1(S66 he came to Center Township, Hendricks Co., Ind. He remained here but a short time when he removed to Boone County, f.nd from therein a short time to Montgomery County, Ind., where he remained till 1869, working on a farm during the summer months and attending school at Crawfordsville in the winter. Thus by his own exertions he acquired a good education. Sept. 7, 1S69, he was married to Harriet F. Brown, born Dec. 7, lSi2, a native of Kentucky, and daughter of George and Martha Brown. Her parents came to Hendricks County, Ind., in 1816 remaining there till 1866 when they removed to Montgomery County, Ind. Mr. and Mrs. Hays have two children - Charles M. and Joe F. Shortly after his marriage Mr. Hays with his wife returned to his native State where they remained till the spring of 1871. He then returned to Hendricks County, Ind., where he now has a fine farm of 165 acres in Eel River Township, one-half mile east of North Salem. Both he and his wife are members of the Christian church.

James H. Heady, M. D., was born April 10, 1S55, in Putnam County, Ind., the youngest child of Emri and Elizabeth Heady. His parents were natives of Kentucky. They are both living, having passed the years alloted to man, and are still hale and hearty. Of a family of fifteen children born to them fourteen are yet living. James H. received his early education in the district schools of his neighborliood, and when eighteen years old entered Asbury University, at Greencastle, Ind., remaining there three years. During the fall of 1877 and winter of 1S7S he attended the Ohio

Histoet Of Hendricks Countt

Medical College, at Cineinuati, Ohio, and in April, 1S7S, he began practicing in Boone County, Ind. In the spring of 1879 he attended the Ohio Medical College taking the -practical course, after which he continued his practice in Jamestown, Boone County, until the fall of 1879. He then attended the Indiana Medical College at Indianapolis, from which he graduated in the spring of ISSO. He then resumed his practice at Jamestown, remaining there till May, 1884, since which he has built a large and lucrative practice at North Salem, Hendricks County, and is recognized as one of the most successful physicians in the county. Nov. 30, 1S78, he was married to Rebecca A. Davis, daughter of Levi and Caroline Davis, of Boone County. They have had three children - Nora, Carl (deceased) and Etliel. Mr. Heady and his wife are members of the Missionary Baptist church. He is a member of Nortli Salem Lodge, No. 158, L O. O. F.

Eli Hendricks, deceased, son of Henry and Martha Hendricks, was born Nov. 9, 1809, near Cincinnati, Ohio. He came to Wayne County, Ind., where he was reared to manhood and received a rudimentary education. May 19, 1836, he was married to Miss Mary E. Dinwiddle, born June 27, 1815, in Bourbon County, Ky. , a daughter of John and Jane Diawiddie. Nice children were born to them of whom only three survive - James "\Y., a leading farmer and stock-raiser of this township; Amos D. and Isaac D. In 1837 Mr. Hendricks settled with his family on an uncultivated farm in the northern part of this township and endured some of the hardships of pioneer life. He was an earnest member of the Presbyterian church and served his church as Elder for many years. His death occurred Nov. 2, 1869. He was a kind husband and father and was respected by all who knew him. He was a man of sterling integrity and was upright in his dealings with his fellow men. His widow still resides on the old homestead.

Thoinpson Henry ^^%\)Om\Vi Montgomery County, Ind., Aug. 16, 1839. His parents, George and Elizabeth Henry, were natives of Kentucky and early settlers of Montgomery County, aiid in 1816 they settled in Eel River Township, this county, where the father died in 1819. Their children are - John "W"., James R., Susan M., Lydia E. and our subject. The latter spent his youth on a farm and obtained a good education in the common schools of his neighborhood. He taught school and farmec! alternately about two years, and in April, 1867, he married EstelLne Jessee, daughter of Samuel and Margrret Jessee, of Boone County, Ind. They have seven children - Marj J., George R., Oliver A., Alice C, Eflie L., Mattie A. and Fredonia. In February, 1885, Mr. Henry moved with his family from Boone County to the northern part of Eel River Township, this county, where he owns 182 acres of land. In May, 1862, he enlisted in the Fifty-fifth Indiana Infantry to serve three moutlis and^ was in the fight at Richmond, Ky., where he was wounded in the foot, which disabled him for a short time. lie was discharged at the expiration of his term of enlistment, and in June, 1863, he re-enlisted in the Third Indiana Cavalry. He I served at Walker's Ford, Morristown, Nashville, near Knoxville, Tenn., and at Raleigh, N. C, and numerous other battles of less note, making twenty-eight in all. He was honorably discharged in August, 1865. He is a member of Antietam Post, Ko. 162, G. A. I R., at Jamestown, Ind. He is a member of the Methodist Epis- ! copal church. i

Aafoji V. Hester, son of Adam and Ann (Van Zant) Hester, was born June 6, 1828, in Fleming County, Ky. In ISSi he came [ with his parents to Putnam County, Ind., and about five j'ears | later removed with them to Montgomery County, Ind. He was j married in Montgomery County, Sept. 4, ISoS, to Sarah McDan- ! iel, born July 10, 1840, a daughter of Jiidson and Sarah McDaniel. They have had s;!ven childrun - Mary C, born Dec. 6, 1859, i and died Oct. 26, 1874; Laura L., born Feb. 8, 1861; Melviua, ! born Dec. 27, 1864; xVinanda, born Nov. 6, 1867; HattieF., born j Sept. 7, 1871; Eva and Evert (twins), born June 20, 1875, the lat- i ter died Aug. 1, 1876. In 1858 Mr. Hester removed from Mont- j gomery to Boone County, Ind., remaining there till the spring of j 1865, when he settled on his present farm in the northern part of ! Eel River Township. He has followed farmins: throurrh life in I which pursuit he has been moderately successful, owning a farm of j eighty acres. He is a member of the Christian church. Politically, | be is a Republican. Mrs. Hester died Jan. 24, 1876. She pos- i sessed many excellent traits of character and was respected by all : who knew her. < ' |

Michael Higg'ins, a pioneer of Hendricks County, vvas born j Sept. 7, 1820, in Mercer County, Ky. He was but six months old : when his parents, Thomas and Nancy Higgins, came to Putnam ; County, Ind., where they remained but a short time, when they came to Hendricks County, they being among the first settlers of Marion Township. Here his father entered 240 acres of land, and struggled hard to secure for his family a comfortable home. His ' death occurred in ^[arcli, 1S5-)-. Micliael Higginswas thus i-eared to raanliood in HeiidrickvS County, and with his father shared the toils of the day from early youth. April 2G, ISiS, he married Polly Robbins, daughter of "William and Leah Robbins, natives of New York, at that time. residents of Hendricks County. They had one child - 'NVilliam T. 31rs. Higgins died and he was again married Nov. IS, 1S45, to Lydia Robbins, daughter of Jacob and Barbara Robbins. They have had four eliildren - Sarah A., Jacob L. , Christopher C, and Mary (deceased). In 1SC9 he removed from Marion and has since then made his home in the southern part of Eel River Township, owning a good farm of 1S4 acres. He served three years as Trustee of Marion Township. He is a member of the Christian ciiurch.

Milley Hiilble, daughter of William and Sarah (Loury) New, was born March 21, 1822, in Warren County, Ky. In 1833 she came with her father's family to Hancock County, Ihd., where her mother died two years later. After a residence there of about ten years Mr. New removed to Boone County, where he remained till his death Feb. 25, 1SS5. He had been married thi-ee times and had a family of eight children of whom seven are now living - Fannie T., Milley, Elizabeth J., Nancy, Sarah, Daniel and Lewis. Our subject was married Jan. 29, 1813, in Boone County, to William Walker, and to them were born three children - Lewis, William and Simon. The latter was a member of the Fortieth Indiana Infantry, and lost his life at the battle of Pittsburg Landing. Mr. Walker died Nov. 21-, 1817, and June 11, 1852, our subject - was again married to Leonard Hubble, he being a native of South Carolina. Of the nine children born to this union, seven areliving - Enoch J., Leonard, James H., David W., Nancy J., Fannie and Rebecca E. In 1858 Mr. -and Mrs. Hubble came from Boone to Hendricks County and settled in the northern part of Eel River Township, where Mr. Hubble died. Mrs. Hubble still resides on the old homestead and is the owner of 115 acres of good land. Siie is a member of the Christian church.

Mrs. Mary Jones was born March 12, 1S31, and is a native of North Carolina. She is a daughter of John and Lydia Robbins, who came to Hendricks County in 1835, Mr. Robbins remaining here till his death in March, 1881. The mother is still living with her children, six of whom, one son and iive daughters, are living. Onr subject was married Aug. 12, 1852, to James D. Walker, son of Goodlow and Rebecca Walker, of this county, the former de- ceased. To this marriage were born four childreu, Ls. o now living - Oliver M., married Lydia A. Cunover, daughter of SarauelJ. and Ella W. Conover, of New Albany, Ind., and has three children - Laura E. , Lottie O. and W. Treat; and Ilattie A. married Horace Cook, son of Henderson, deceased, and Nancy J. Cook, of Eel River Township, this county, and to them liave been born one child - Nellie L. Mattie J. was born Nov. 9, 1S55, and was married Jan. 29, lS7i, to J. J. Clay, and died Jan. 9, 1S77, leaving one child - Charles C.,born Nov. 23, 1S74. Charles F., born Juno 2i, 1858, died April 23, 1862. In 1858 Mr. Walker settled on the farm now owned by our subject. In September, 1861, he enlisted in the Seventh Indiana Infantry, and participated in many of the important battles of the war, in one of which lie was taken prisoner by the Southern troops. He was confined in Andersonville Prison about three months and in other prisons for the same length of time, from the effects of which he died at Florence, S. C, Dec. 4, 1864. Our subject was again married May 12, 1872, taking for her second husband David D. Junes, son of William and Eleanor Jones, of Hendricks Count}-. He, too, was a soldier in the Union army and died in 1873 from diseases contracted v/hile in the service. Mrs. Jones and her children are members of the Christian churcK.

William J. K. P. Jones, druggist and notary public, was born Oct. 20, 1844, in Hendricks County, lud., a son of Wynn and Mary Jones. His father was born in Virginia, in December, 1797. He came to Morgan County, Ind., in 1816, and in 1818 came to Hendricks County, and settled in this township. Our subject was reared to manhood in his native county, receiving a fair education, and subsequently taught school for a short time. Ho was married July 11, ISrtS, to Elizabeth Bales, daagrhter of Tarlton Bales (de-jeased). To them have been born one child - Samuel W. (deceased). In 1868, in company with John Robbius, Mr. Jones opened a drug store at North Salem, in ^vhich he was engaged about two years. He then went to Lizton, this county, but soon returned to North Salem and again engaged in the drug business in partnership with Granville G. Sowder. At the end of six monthsilr. Sowder retired from the firm, leaving Mr. Jones sole proprietor. ]N[r. Jones has been twice commissioned Notary Public, and is one of North Salem's most influential citizens. He is a member of North Salem Lodge, No. 158, I. 0. 0. F. In politics he is a Democrat.

184-7, a son of German and Leah Lockhart, the former a native of Kentucky, but now deceased, and the latter of North Carolina. When he was about three years old, his father having died, his mother, now a resident of Eel River Township, came to Marion Township, this county, where he lived till 1S6S. His educational advantages were limited, as he was obliged to share in the labors of the farm from a mere boy. He has followed agricultural pursuits through life with success, and has acquired, by his own industry, a farm of 1S7 acres. He was married March 5, 1871, to Miss Adeline Davis, daugliter of Walter and Mary Davis, of this township. They have one son - Oscar. In November, 1SG3, Mr. Lockhart enlisted in the Ninth Indiana Cavalry, participating in many battles. _ He was honorably discharged in September, 1S65. He is a member of the G. A. It. Post at North Salem, and is also an earnest member of the Christian church.

Jaynes A. Lytle was born April 2G, 1833, in Boone County, Ind., and was one of the first children born in that county. His parents, Edward and Mary Lytle, were natives of Cincinnati and Kentucky respectively. They came to Tippecanoe County, Ind., and subsequently to Boone County, where they lived till their death. Our subject followed farming till he was twenty-five years old, when he began working in a saw- mill. He was employed in various mills in his native county till Angust, 1862, when he enlisted in Company I, Eighty-sixth Indiana Infantry. He participated in the battles of Murfreesboro, Tenn., and Perryville, Ky., and was honorably discharged in November, 1863. While in the service he contracted a disease for which he draws a pension. After his return from the war he worked in a saw-mill till 1868, when he came to North Salem, this connty, and for fifteen years was proprietor of the North Sqlem Saw-mill. In December, 1883, he began buying and shipping timber for an Indianapolis firm, and in February, 1885, he engaged in the mercantile business, having bought out Mr. W. J. K. P. Jones. He was married April 3, 1854, to Martha J. Gibson, and to them have been born five children - John F., Mollie, Thomas B., Annie B. and Mattie J. Mr. Lytle is a member of North Salem Lodge, No. 158, I. 0. O. F., and also of the Grand Army vf the Eepablic.

Levi Martin^ a leading citizen of Eel River Township, was born March 10, 1826, in Union County, Ind., a son of James and Mary Martin, the former a native of North Carolina and the latter of Ohio. In 1833 his father came with his family to Hendricks

County, and entered 160 acres of 'land in Eel River Township, which he cleared, remaining here till his death in December, 1S49. His wife survived him till October, 1879. Of their twelve children five are living - Jesse, William, Henry C, Oliver 11. and Levi. Levi Martin came to this county with his parents in 1833, and was married March 20, ISoO, to Emeline Fullen, daughter of Charles and Sarah Fullen, of Hendricks County. Of the six children born to this union, two are living - Charles F., married to Mii-anda F. Tucker, and Horace G., married> to Libbie liussell. After a married life of over a quarter of a century Mrs. Martin died April 27, 1877, and for his second wife Mr. Martin married Mrs. Cassie Darnall, widow of the late Simpson B. Darnall, of Kokomo, Howard Co., Ind., and daughter of Philip and Eliza M. Smith, natives of Kentucky. Mr. Martin has a fine farm of 155 acres. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and politically he is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Christian church.

Oliver P. Owen was born in Eel River Township, Hendricks County, Dec. 23, 1855, a son of Horatio (deceased) and Margaret Owen, who were natives of Kentucky. Horatio Owen canie to this township in 1832 and entered a tract of land on which he remained till 18'i8, and then moved two miles southeast of that place within one mile of Xorth Salem, where he resided until his death, in April, 1881. His widow is at present residing at North Salem, this county. Of their children three are living - James M., Oliver P. and Keziah. Oliver P. was reared to maidaood on a farm and received a fair education. He has followed farming through life, and now has a pleasant home. He is the owner of 130 acres of land on which are good and substantial buildings. Nov. 21, 1880, he was married to Florence M. Duckworth, who was born in' Hendricks County, Ind., Sept. 11, 1862, and is a daughter of James J. and Mary E. Duckworth, who were early settlers of this county. This union has been blessed with one child - Taylor W., born Dec. 5, 1882. Mrs. Owen has two sisters and one brother living - Sarah E., Lettie and George. Mr. Owen and his wife are both active members of the Methodist church.

Robert 21. Page was born in Hendricks County, Ind., Feb. 18, 1838, a son of "William and Elirabeth Page, natives of Virginia. They came to this county about 1832, and the following year settled in Eel River Township, remaining here till their decease. Ten children were born to them, of whom seven are living - Mc- Elender, Nancy, Andrew J., Jeremiali, Robert M., Demerius and

History Of Hendricks Codntv

"Williamson. Mr. Page, on coming to tliis township, entered orer 100 acres of beavily-timbered land, which, in a few years, he by his industry and perseverance transformed into a well cultivated farm. Kobert M., onr subject, was thus reared to manhood amid the scenes of pioneer life, and from his youth he was obliged to share the labors of the farm. Aug. 15, 1861, he was married to Elizabeth Morplien, daughter of Benjamin and Jane Morphea, of Hendricks County, natives of Ohio and North Carolina respectively. To them has been born one son - Francis M. In 186i Mr. Page enlisted in the One Hundred and Thirty-second Indiana Infantry, Company G, in the lOO-days service. He was on duty principally in Alabama, and at the expiration of his term of enlistment he was honorably discharged. He owns a good farm situated in tlie southern part of this township. He is a member of the Christian church.

Joseph Plmmner, a pioneer ot Eel River Towjiship, was born in Greene County, Ohio, Oct. 17, 1S13, a son of Levi and Mary Plummer, the father a native of Maryland, and the mother of Indiana. In 1815 his parents came to Fayette County, Ind., and lived there five years, and thence moved to Morgan County, where tliey also remained five years, and in 1825 came to Hendricks County. Our subject was reaied to manhood on a farm amid tlie stirring scenes of pioneer life, and received but a meagre education. Aug. 2, 1832, he was married in Morgan County, Ind., to Ann Day, and to them wore born nine children - Mary, Martha, Thomas, Levi, Hannah, Fannie, John, Ann and Richard D. After a married life of over a quarter of a century, deatli entered his home taking his beloved wife Jan. 18, 1870. May 14, 1872, he was married to Ljdia Burgan, daughter of Isaac and Sarah Burgan, who were among the early settlers of Hendricks County. In the spring of 1835 Mr. Plummer settled in the eastern portion of Eel River Township, where he has since lived. He owns 565 acres of good tillable land. Of Mr. Plummer it may be said that he is a self-made man, and according to his own statements he started life with virtuiilly nothing but his strong arras and his determination to succeed. *

Jeremi'th F . Radford was bom March 10, 1850, in Putnam Conpty, Ky., and is a son of Jeplitha (deceased) and Nancy J. Radford, who were natives of Kentucky. Of his father's family of thirteen children, five are now living - John "W.^ Jeremiah F., Louisa, Nancy C. and Charles H. From his boyhood our subject has devoted himself to agricultural pursuits, in which he has been eminently successful. He is the owner of a farm containing eightjeight and a half acres in a fine state of cultivation, situated in the western part of tliis township, on which he settled in 1876. He received a fair English education in his youth, and Nov. 6, 1873, he was married to Miss J^ancy A. Gillin, a daughter of Willis Y. Gillin,' of Putnam County, Ind. They are the parents of one child - Freddie, born Aug. 3, 1879. Politically Mr. Eadford casts his sufiVage witli the Democratic party.

Marquis De. Lafayette Eihhle, druggist, was born Sept. 5, 1857, in Marion County, Ind., a son of Samuel "W. and Nancy Ribble. He was reared to manhood on a farm in hig, native county, and was there married March 16, ISSl, to Miss Amand E. Dut}', of Coles County, 111. They are the parents of two children - Muriel B., born Feb. 17, 1882, and Nancy M., born Nov. 5, 18Si. In . ihe spring of 18S3 Mr. Ribble came to North Salem, this county, and engaged in the drug business, being assosiated with Mr. J. J, Banta till March, ISSi, when Mr. Banta retired from the firm, since which !Mr. Ribble has carried on the business alone, and is meeting with gratifying success. He and his wife are members of the Oiristian church. He is a member of North Salem Lodge, No. 158, I. O. O. F. In politics be is a Demoei-at.

Washington Riggen, a retired farmer of North Salem, was born Dec. 22, 1812, in Mason County, Ky., a soa of Rev. John W. and Elizabeth (Kelley) Riggen, natives of Maryland and Virginia respectively. He obtained a rudimentary edtication, and at the age of sixteen years began to learn the blacksmith's trade, which he followed about thirteen years. Feb. 21, 1S33, he was married to Miss Mary Ncttser, and of the nine children born to this union five are living - Henry V., John W. (a minister), Rice B., Alice and Maria E. May 1, lS6i, Mr. Riggen married for his second wife Mrs. Anne R. Riggen, daughter of Sanford and Eleanor A. Wren. By her first husband Mrs. Riggen had nine children, seven ot whom are now living - William PL, Ann E., Elizabeth, Richard II., Caroline 13., Sarah L. and Robert E. In the spring of 1SG4 Mr. Riggen came to Hendricks Count}' and settled in the eastern p.u-t Eel River Township, where he remained till his removal to North Salem in the fall of 18S2. Ho and his -wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, in which he \\s.s served as Steward and Class-Leader. He has been a liberal contributor to both church and State enterprises, and enjoys the respect of his fellow citizens.

Histoet Of Hendricks Coonty

James Trotter was born in Virginia, and when two years of ao-e came to Owen County, lud., with his parents, who in 1S28 settled near Nortli Saleai, in Eel River Township, Hendricks County. His father entered a large tract of 1,500 acres of land, and was actively engaged in forwarding the various enterprises which tended to develop the resources of the county, until his death, about 1S50. James Trotter was married to Miss Sarah Whitt, a native of Virginia. Of a large number of children five are livino- - Elizabeth, William W., John C, Catherine and James M. He had served as Trustee of Eel River Township for nine years, and was prominently identified with many of the improvements made during his time in tli^e township. He died Feb. IG, ISYG, respected by all who knew him. James M., the youngest son, was born Feb. 3, 1811, in Eel River Township, where he was reared to manhood. He was married June 7, 1800, to Miss Nancy E. Grose, born "Nov. 11, 1841, in Hendricks County, a daughter of Andrew and Nancy. Grose, natives of Kentucky and early settlers of this county. To them have been born six cliildren - John W., Florence R., James W., Gretta E., Mary C. and Retta M. Mr. Trotter has, with the exception of a short time spent in the South and at St. Paul, Minn., been a resident of Hendricks County. He has a pleasant farm of 100 acres in the eastern part of Eel River Township. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Jojin D. Trotter, deceased, was born Nov. 3, 1815, in Lee County, Va., and was a son of John and Nancy Trotter. He was reared to manhood in his native State, and having received a fair education he engaged in teaching school for a short time. He came to Hendricks County, Ind., in 1839, and settled in Eel River Township. Dec. 16, ISil, he was married to Sarah Jones, who was born Dec. 10, 1821. Of the nine cliildren born to this union seven are living - Richard J., Nancy, Horace A., John P., Catherine A., Charles Y. and Lee B. In 1870 Mr. Trotter moved to the farm where his widow still resides, and which contains eighty acres of land. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church at tiic time of his death, which occurred July 7, 1870. He was a member of the F. & A. M. and the I. 0. O. F. societies, and in politiche was a Democrat.

Dandridge Tucker, farmer and stock-raiser. Eel River Township, was born March 3, 1S27, in Casey County, Ky., the only son of Lee and Miranda (Durham) Tucker. "When seven years old his parents removed to Indiana, where his youth was spent in assisted - itig his fether to clear and improve his farm, and in attending the subscription schools. He was married May 5, 1850, to Miss Catherine Davis, born March 11, 1830, in Montgomery County, Ky., a daughter of Nathan and Nancy (Kid) Davis, who came to Hendricks County in 1835. They are the parents of four children - David L., Natlian A., Miranda F. and Robert E. After his marriage he settled on his present farm, and has met with good success in his agricultural pursuits. Mr. Tucker is a member ot the Methodist Episcopal church. His wife was a member of the Christian church till her death, which occurred Feb. 15, 1883. Politically Mr. Tucker is an active worker in the Republican party. In 1857 he was appointed Township Trustee under the old constitution, and was elected Treasurer of the Board, serving in this capacity until the new constitution was adopted. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and belongs to Danville Council and Chapter, and to Hapiel Regg Lodge, No. 200, having held every office in the lodge many times. Pic is one of the oldest representatives in the Grand Lodge, and is also a member of the Masonic Veteran Association, which was organized in 18S3.

Lee Tucker, deceased, one of the worthy pioneers of Hendricks County, was a native of Virginia, born in Bedford County, May 4, 1803. He was the eldest son, and third child of a family of ten children of Dandridge and Nancy (Settles) Tucker, natives of Virginia. His father was the son of "William Tucker who served in the Revolutionary war for seven years, during which time he with a friend. Captain Dandridge, obtained leave of absence, and returned to their homes and were married, each agreeing that the first son of the one should bear the name of the other. Hence the name Dandridge came into the Tucker fLimily'. William Tucker married a Miss Lee, a member of the same family of which the late General Robert E. Lee was a descendant. Our subject was eight years of age when his parents settled in Casey County, Ky., where he was reared to manhood on a farm, receiving such education as the schools of those early days afforded. Ue was married Feb. 7, 1826, to Miss Miranda Durham, a daughter of Thomas and Frances (Moss) Durham, natives of Virginia and Maryland respectively. They -.-ere pioneers of Kentucky, experiencing many of the Indian troubles in the settlement of that State. Mrs. Tucker was born in Mercer County, Ky., now Boyle County, Dec. 16, 1805. After his marriage Mr. Tucker resided on the old homestead, and continued his farming pursuits nntil the fall of lS3i wlieii, on account of his opposition to slavery, he came to Indiana arriving tliere Sept. 12, 1S31. He purchased 160 acres ot unimproved land in Eel River Township, he being one of the first settlers. He then entered eighty acres of Government land, to which he subsequently added forty acres more where he began making his frontier home, and by his untiring industry he was highly successful. In 1S26 he and his wife united with the Methodist Episcopal church, and he was soon after appointed Class- Leader, serving in that capacity until his removal to Indiana. He organized a church society consisting of six members, their place of worship being his house, and later he organized the first Sabbathschool in the township which was also held in the house of Mr. Tucker. He served as Class-Leader, Steward and Trustee until hi; death, and his house was always the home of the preachers. He was an earnest advocate of the cause of temperance all his life, and was the first man in his township to refuse to furnish intoxicants at his log rollings or in his harvest field. Politically he wa; an old-l,ine "Whig, but becanae a liepublicau on the organization ol that party. He was always among the foremost to aid m every enterprise for the benefit of the community. He died June 'SB, 188-1, his wife having died July 24, 1S72, after living happily together for forty-f )ur years. Two children were born to them - Dandridge and Lse Ann, wife of John Durham. Besides caring well for his own family he has reared eight orphan children who grew to be useful inembers of societr.

Isaac I^. Vannice was born in Hendricks County, Ind., May 28, 1839, a son of Lawrence and Caroline Vannice, natives of Kentucky, and early settlers of this county. His father at present resides at Danville, Ind. His mother is deceased. Of their nine children eight are living - Margaret L., Pha?be E., Harvey N. , Isaac N., David M., William E., James O. and Mary E. Our subject received bat a rudimentary education. He was reared a -farmer and is one of the successful agriculturists of this township. Sept. 21, 1861, he was married to Sarah E., daughter of William and Catherine Davis, of this township. Of their eigh.t children six are living - William H., OliverP., Ettie, Laura, Hattie M. and Ida M. Charles and Lilly are deceased. In 1875 Mr. Vannice came from Marion Township and settled on liis present farm in this township. In August, lSt)2, he enlisted as a private in the Ninety-ninth Indiana Infantry, but was soon promoted to the rank of Sergeant, which position he held till 1S65, when he was honorably discharged. He participated ia many battles, amoiii^ them being the siege of Vicksbiirg, Mission Eidge, siege of Atlanta, Fort McAllister, Goldsborongh, and was with Sherman in his march to the sea. Mr. Vannice is a member of the I. O. 0. F. He and his wife are members of the Christian church.

Joseph Waters, a pioneer farmer of Eel River Township, was born Nov. 30, ISli, in Lincoln County, Ky., a son of jSTathaniel and Elizabeth Waters, the former a native of Maryland, and the latter of Kentucky. His parents were among the early settlers of this township, having located in the soutliern part on Rock Branch. Of their family of eleven chiklren five are living - Samuel D., Nathan W., George H., Elizabeth and Joseph. Our subject was reared on a farm and obtained a limited education in t!ie schools ot his neighborhood. June 16, 1S3.5, ho was married to Julia A. Hocker, born Dec. 11, 1813, a daughter of George and Nancy Hocker, natives of Kentucky. To them have been born eleven children, of whom five are living - Nancy E., Sarah A., Owen H., George H. and Newton E. After his marriage Mr. "Waters removed to Kentucky but returned in a sliort time to Hendricks County. He has followed farming through life, and now owns 141: acres of improved land. He settled on his present farm near North Salem in 1852. He was among the ^jfirst Trustees of Eel River Township, and served creditably for>iine year. In politics he is a Democrat. Both he and his wife are members of the Christian church.

Frcmcis JL White was born June 12, 1S44, in Eel River Township, Hendricks Co., InJ. He is a son of Bloomfield and Mary -White, of Danville, this county, who were among the early settlers of Eel River Township. Of his father's Eiimlly of nine children, three are now living - Francis M., Marg-aret and Sarah E. In March, 1866, Mr. White was united in marriage with Amanda D. .Davidson, daughter of Samuel and Catherine Davidson, of this county. Three children have been born to this uiiiou - William L., James D. and Estella. In June, 1S63, ^r. White enlisted in the One Hundred and Twenty-fourth Indiaiaa Infantry, and participated in the battles of Nashville, Columl-us, Franklin, siege of Atlanta and many others. Ho was honor.ably discharged in the fall of 186-5. He is a member of the Jesse Ogden Post, G. A. R. , at Danville. He and his wife are members of the Christian church. He has a fine farm of eighty acres, all uno!«r a good state of cultivation. . "

Abraham Whitenack, deceased, was born Oct. 31, 1824, in Warren County, Ohio, a son of Andrew and Katie Wliitenack, natives of New Jersey. Pie received a fair education in his youtli, and Jan. 25, 1855, he married Caroline E. Keynolds, daughter of William and Nancy (Snodgrass) Reynolds, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of "Virginia. To them have been born twelve children, of whom eight are now living - Ella, Llewellyn P., Isalona, Levona, Viola, Theresa, Oscar O. and Leon A. Mr. and Mrs. Whitenack settled in Hendricks County, Ind., in February, 1857, where Mr. Whitenack died Feb. 10. 1SS2. His widow still resides on the old homestead, and is an active workt.'r in the Baptist church. Mr. Whitenack was a public-spirited man, and always encouraged the various enterprises which tended to develop the resources of his township.

Alexander M. Williams, one of the leading farmers and stockraisers of this township, ^vas born J\ine 26, 1840, in Hendricks County, Ind. He was a son of James B. and Eliza Williams, who came to this county about 1837, _settling in Marion Township, where they died. Our subject was reared to manhood on a farm, and in the management of which he has been very successful, and now owns a fine farm of 232 acres. Jan. 30, 1S67, he was married to Rebecca A. Faussel, daughter of Isaac and Unity Faussel, of Hendricks County. To them was born one child - Harry W. Mrs. Williams died June 21, 1S6S, and he was again married July 20,. 1871, to Martha A. Griggs, a native of Kentucky, born March 3, 1842, a daughter of David and Emiline Griggs. By this union there has been born five children^Emiline, Anne, Uiban L., Flora and Dicy. In the fall of 1863 Mr. Williams enlisted in the One Hundred and Twenty-fourth Indiana Infantry, under the command of General Scoville. He participated in the siege of Atlanta, the battles of Franklin and Nashville, Tenn., and numerous other engagements of minor importance, and was honorably discharged in September, 1865. He is a member of the G- A. R. Post at North Salem.

George S. Wren was born Sept. 11, 1819, in Montgomery County, Ky." His parents were Sanford and Eleanor Wren, natives ot Virginia. They had a family of ten children, of whom six survive - Enoch S., John R., Thomas S., George S., Sarah A. and Anne R. Those deceased are - Andrew J., Richard W., Eliza and Lncinda. Our subject was reared to manhood in his native State. His father died when he. was fifteen years old, and lie was then thrown on his own resources. He was married Doc. 9, 1841, to Caroline Daris, who was born in November, 1S21, a daughter of Eenjamin E. and Nancy Davis, the 'ather a native of Virginia, and the mother of Kentucky. To them have been born six children - Eliza A., Sarah F., William Z. T., Benjamin F., Mary E. and Ida J. In 1852 Mr. "Wren came, with his wife and four children, to Eel River Township, this county, and bought 160 acres of land. He has since added forty acres to his original purchase, and is now the owner of 200 acres of land, which he has gained by his own exertions. He has served his township as Trustee for two years. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and a true Democrat.

Source changes here: from History of Hendricks County, Indiana, Her People, Industries and Institutions, by Hadley, John Vestal, published 1914; 1,031 words in this source stream.

Topography

Eel River township is in the extreme northwest corner of Hendricks county. It is bounded on the north by Boone county, on the east by Union and Center townships, on the south by Marion township, on the west by Putnam and Montgomery counties. The natural drainage of the most of this township is excellent; the east and west sides are rather flat and not adequately drained by the streams, although the farmers have at this time provided artificial means which remedy this deficiency. In the southwest corner of this township are found many high elevations, some of the hills below the juncture of Rock Branch and Eel River rising one hundred feet above the bed of the stream and now covered with a luxuriant second growth of timber. Five good-sized streams enter the township near the southwest corner, merging into Eel river. The picturesqueness of these stream valleys, the rich, wooded banks rising from them and the well-arranged farm lands lying behind, supplies beauty of landscape unequaled in the county. It is the garden sport of Hendricks. The land in this locality is uniformly good and is well adapted to any kind of cultivation.

Early Settlement

In the spring of 182.4 the first white settlers came to Eel River township. They were Noah Bateman and Reuben Claypool and they located a mile south of North Salem. They were followed in the fall of that year by John Claypool and John S. Woodward. Among the others who located in this township, previous to 1830, were James Trotter. Henry Bales, J. and Martha Page, John P. Benson, Robert Covey, Enoch Davis and his sons, William, Frank and Jesse, William Dewitt, Dr. Collins, Andrew Clifton,

James Campbell, Mr. Crum and the Penningtons. John Benson built the first mill in the county on Rock Branch in the year 1826. This structure lasted but a few years when Mr. Crum built a mill on Eel River, not far from the site of the former mill. About the year 1830 a distillery was started near Crum's mill. This was the first in the county.

The Boulder Club

The citizens of Eel River, at an early date, passed what was known as a "stay law," in defense of their property, which was often taken and sold by the constable. Whenever the constable advertised any property for sale the club would meet on the night before and carry a number of boulders which they piled on the ground as a notice to the constable not to offer the property for sale.

First Election

The first general election held in Eel River township was on August 7, 1826. The men who voted at this election were Abel Pennington, Lewis Benson, Jacob Shoemaker, William Turner, Jacob Crum, A. Jones, James Fowler, Jesse Turner, John Warker, Hampton Pennington, Daniel Turner, John Woodward, John Turner, David Evans, Edward Turner, William Hinton, David Claypool, W. Jones, Christian Hartman, John Fowler, Noah Bateman, Y. L. Huggs, John Claypool, Alva Benson, Little Huggs and William Fowler.

To describe Eel River township of today the same words used in the account of the other civil divisions might be used. The township has no large settlements, but has developed in agricultural lines during the past score of years until now it occupies a marked position in the county. The Cincinnati, Hamilton and Dayton railroad traverses the township, east and Vv^est, near the center and the Peoria division of the Big Four and the Ben-Hur interurban line cross near the north part of the township, providing direct intercourse with the chief markets of the state. The schools have grown and become modern in every respect, following the new thought of consolidation. The people of the township have directed a large part of their efforts to the betterment of the roads. The old dirt road, with its sloughs and dangerous holes, has been replaced by excellent gravel and macadam highways. The farms are cultivated according to the latest practices employed over the country and along with care for proper cultivation has become a pride in the appearance of the field, the equipment and the residence. Many a farm home viewed by the traveler in Eel River township is impressive and suitable for the largest cities.

North Salem

North Salem is the only village in Eel Ri\'er township. It was laid out in 1835 by John and David Claypool and John S. Woodward. The town has always been a prosperous one, even from the beginning, a new life having been given by the building of the railroad, now the Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton railroad. The United States census report for 1910 gives the population of North Salem as five hundred and sixty-nine, which number had grown proportionately larger in the past five years.

The place was incorporated as a town in May, 1899, and town oiificers elected. The offices in 1914 are filled as follows: Trustees, J. H. I^age, Harry Seaton and Harry Dean ; clerk, Smith Davis ; marshal, \^irgil Robbins. About ten years ago the town installed an acetylene plant, for residence and street lighting. This public utility was recently improved and enlarged and is now worth four thousand dollars.

The North Salem Bank was organized in 1891 by Pritchard & Son, of Illinois, and in 1893 the business was purchased by the present owners and has since been controlled by home people. C. W. Davis is president of the bank. G. B. Davis, cashier, and J. B. Fleece, assistant cashier. The average deposits amount to one hundred and fifty thousand dollars.

North Salem Lodge No. 142, Free and Accepted Masons, was chartered on May 25, 1853, and was the first secret order in the town. This lodge is in good condition now and has a membership of ninety.

North Salem Lodge No. 158, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, was chartered on April 15, 1865, with the following first members: William Adair, John S. Woodward, James White, John M. Hensley, James Shakles and H. W. Hackley. This lodge today has a membership of one hundred and fifty-eight.

Joe Fleece Post No. 383, Grand Army of the Republic, at North Salem, was mustered, in September, 1884, with ten charter members. This post is not active at the present time.