Elkhart Township (part 1 of 5)

Elkhart Township

of Millersburg would be destroyed, and large companies of men were constantly on the alert to fight back the fire. It is estimated that during this friglitful time over 1,000 acres of timber were desti'oyed, and a large amount of fencing, hay and other property was consumed.

Many of the early settlers vividly remember their early pioneer experiences, and relate to the interested listener stories of life in the woods when they were hewing farms out of the wilderness. The settler usually plunged into the primeval forest, where his claim was located, often with nothing but his ax and a few household utensils to begin with. Sometimes he had an ox team, sometimes a horse and a cow. Sometimes there was nothing with which to support life but what roamed, bounded or flitted through the forest, or darted in the stream in the shape of flesh of animal or bird. The deer was the favorite source of food supply, and a common manner of making this reprisal from the forest was to hunt the animal in the night along streams by means of the boat and the torch. The deer were sometimes driven into the streams by the swarms of mosquitoes, fifty of the mild-eyed beauties often being seen huddled together in the water at once. This dilemma of the deer was the hunters' opportunity. They would get into their boats, light a flaming torch in the bow, which would, by its brightness, divert the observation of the deer from the hunters who lay low in the boat behind it. Then the craft would be allowed to float gently down the stream toward the deer that stand in the water blinking at the light, fighting oft" the mosquitoes, and all unconscious of the coming danger. When the boat had floated near enough to be within easy range, the report of the rifle would ring out, the night air would be cleft with singing balls, and one oi' more deer would be put where the sting of the myriad pests would never more torment them.

The only way of carrying the mail in the early days was on horseback, and the grist was taken to and from the mill in tlio same way. Living at long distances from each other, neighbors were more sociable and free-hearted than now, and would often visit each other, the visitors remaining with the entertainers for two days at a time. The early settlers now mourn and lament the decadence of the oldtime hospitality and liberality. There was a novel exchange currency in those days, which was neither the "money of the world " nor the money of fiat, bat was the currency of the woods, and was based on intrinsic value, namely, coon-skins." The pelts of these lovers of coon were considered good as gold, and were taken in exchange for all kinds of commodities, and the pioneer was considered a base-born wretch and no patriot if he refused a proffer of this kind of pelt.

As is common in all new timbered countrius the early settlers of Benton made sad havoc with the giants of the forest. They were mercilessly laid low witli the cleaving u.^;, and consumed by lire where they lay. Tims an enormous amount of prospective wealtli was destroyed. Cleared land the settlers must have, and they could not wait for the demand of growing cities or the coming railroad. To shov; how valuable this burned timber would now be had it been preserved, this instance is educed: James A. Koach recently sold a single walnut tree for SLOO! How many of such valuable trees were rediiced to nearly worthless ashes and went up in smoke, we can now only conjecture.

I'Ersonal Sketches

As an important part of the history of Benton township, we present biographical sketches of most of the early settlers and prominent citizens. The national character of the parties, the dates of their arrival here, the names of the members of their families and their present situation, etc., will be of the greatest interest to the community in wliich they reside, and constitute matter of the greatest, value to the historian of future times.

Melvin Alford, son of Tliram and Susannah (Adams) Alford, was born in Ohio in IS-il; his father was a native of Vermont, and of Scotch descent, and liis mother of Pennsylvania, and of English ancestry. He ^vas educated in the common schools of Ohio, and learned the business of stone and brick laying, in which he has been ver}' successful in a business point of view; has done some of the best work in the city of Goshen. April 23, 1S66, he married Loramie Beatty, and they have 1 child. Leland B., born March 4, 1S77. In 1S61 Mr. Alford enlisted in Co. I, 49th Ohio Vol. Inf., and was discharged at the close of the war in 1865. He started out as 8th Corporal and was mustered out as 2d Corporal; he was in every battle in which the army of the Cumberland engaged, under Col. Gibson, one of Ohio's greatest orators. Mr. A. was never in the hospital during the service. In politics he is a Bepublican. He has been a resident of Elkhart county most of the time since 1S65, and has followed farming for the last nine years, and also kept his other business going most of the time. He owns 104 acres of good land on sec. 1.

^;i/'i/ .l^iyi/id was boi'u in Peuiisyh'aiiia Jan. li, 1S36, son of John and Elizabetli (Rean) Alwine, of Gennaa ancestry; educated in the common school; came to Indiana with his parents in ISiS; in 1S56 he married Rebecca Mishler, and they had 2 children. Mr. Alwine's second wife was Miss Minerva Ann Platts, who bore him 3 children. He was married a tliirdtime, to Miss Mary Bangher, and by tliis marriage they had i children. Of all the children 7 are now living to cheer Mr. Alwine in his declining j'ears. In 1S7S Mr. A. left his fsirm and went into niercantile business in a hamlet called '-New Cincinnati." In politics Mr. A. is a Republican, and in religion a member of the United Brethren Church.

Dr. D. TF. Baker was born in this State Nov. 22, 1847, the son of John and Abigail (Smith) Baker, and the eldest of his father's children by his second wife. His father was a pioneer in this State, a farmer, and widely known and respected. The subject of this notice passed the days of his childhood mostly on the farm; received his education mostly in a select school at Wolf Lake, ISToble county, Ind., and his medical education in Cincinnati, in 1S71~'72; he commenced practice in Benton in 1S73, where he is at present, enjoying an enviable reputation. Pie is an nnassuming man, and permits the merit of his work to sustain him. April li, 1S67, he married Margaret Elizabeth Tuttle, and they have had 2 sons and 1 daughter. The Doctor is a Republican, and both himself and wife are members of the Church. His ne.xt younger brother, D. W., is also a practitioner of medicine, in Leesburg, Ind.

Albert J. Banta was born in lS3fi, and is a son of Albert and Mary (Bower) Banta, the former of English descent and the latter a native of Ohio, and of German ancestry. He was brought to this county when a child, by his parents, and was educated in the common schools of Elkhart county, and learned the trade of house plasterer, in which he has been very skillful. He is also a stone mason, and at present he follows farming, too, owning SO acres of land. Politically he is a Democrat. In 1862 he married Amanda Smith, and they have had 1 child, J. B., who was born in 1863.

A. W. BanUi,, Postmaster and merchant at Benton, was born in this county in 1S47, and is a son of James and Elizabeth (Jackson) Banta, the latter a daughter of Col. Jackson; was educated in the common school, the high school at Groshen and at Hillsdale (Mich.) College; has followed mercantile business here ever since he was 17 years of agei is a Republican in politics; was appointed Postmaster in 1875, and has been Trustee of his tp., in the election running ahead of his ticket by 40 votes. He owns a share in the home farm, and also a farm four miles south of Benton, besides his residence, which cost about $3,000, and the store, which is a iirst-class one for the country; he carries a stock of $8,000 to $10,000, consisting of a general assortment of fancy and staple dry goods, gents' furnishing goods, boots and shoes, hats and caps, notions, hardware, crockery, groceries, drugs and medicines, and also does a broker's business. Most of what he owns he has made hj lus owQ industry and gentleman!)' manners. March 28, 1S78, he married Emma Znllingei-, and they have had one child, named Earl Jackson, boi-n Dec. 22, 18S0. Mrs. B. is a member of the United Brethren Church, in good standing.

Inoin Berkeyjnle was born in Somerset county. Pa., in 1830, and is the son of Moses and Susannah (Fisherj Berkeypile, the former a native of jN"ew York, and both parents of English and German descent; he received his education at the common schools of his native State; has passed the most of his life as a farmer, but at present he adds to his life-long vocation that of insurance; he has 60 acres of land near Benton. He is agent for the U. B. Mutual Association, of Lebanon, Pa.; for the Prudential Mutual, of Harrjsburg, and of the Elkhart Mutual Association. In the insurance business he succeeds well. Politically he is a Republican. July 15, 1855, he married Amy E. Boyd, daughter of Matthew Boyd, the first settler in this vicinity. Tkey have had 4 sons and 2 daughters; 1 of the sons is deceased. Mr. and Mrs. B. are members of the U. B. Church.

Silas B. Blue, farmer, sec. 27; postoffice, Ligonier; was born in Allen county, Ind., in 1S4S, and is a son of William and Eebecca (Grayless) Blue, natives of Ohio, of Scotch-Irish ancestry; educated in District jS^o. 4, tliis tp. ; is of a literary turn of mind and of considerable natural ability as a writer, his contributions often a])pearing in the county papers. Doubtless, also, he would n:iake a successful *' business " man. In politics he is a Republican, and has been Supervisor, School Director, etc. ; !Mov. 8, 1868, he married Emma Miller, and they have had 2 sons, Amasa Orville and Howard Everett. Mr. and Mrs. Blue are members of the M. E. Church. Mr. B.'s parents settled in this vicinity in 1836, since which time they have witnessed many changes in the development of the country. Their daughter is the wife of Henry Snider, a native of Pennsylvania, whom she married in 1873, and they have 1 child. They, as v/ell as her parents, are all members of the M. E. Church. The subject of this sketch has two brothers, also Republicans.

Abraham Bollinger, farmer, sec. 9, was born in York county. Pa., Aug. 3, 1826, the son of Michael and Elizabeth (Treiber) Bollinger, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent; educated in the common schools of Ohio; came to this county in June, 1854, where he now owns 100 acres of laud. In 1846 he married Susannah Myers, and of their 12 children 9 are living. Mrs. B. died in 1874, and in 1879 Mr. B. married Electa, daughter of G. W. Hawkins, a pioneer of this county; she is a native of this county, and while she is a Republican in her political views, her hnsband is a Democrat; she is also a Methodist, while he is a Trustee in the Lutheran Church.

Johii D. Cordis, farmer, sec. 7; P. O. Benton; was born in Washington county, 0., in 1818, and is a son of James and Mary (Miller) Corns, the former a native of the Kevstone state and the latter of

History Of Elehaet Couxtt

Liverpool, En<jland. Mr. Corns was educated in tlie pioneer scboolhoiise, wliere he never saw a glass window, he arrived in Elkhart county Oct. IS, 1851, lived in Benton village 20 years, bnt for the past eight 3'ears he has lived on his farm of 60 acres, worth §80 per acre. It is one of the most fertile farms in the county. He also owns some town property. When he first started out in married life he had no means and was $150 in debt; this debt he paid by the use of the as and the grubhinL; hoe; for nine years he followed clearing and making rails; when he first came to Benton he had only $5, with wife and 3 children on his hands; but by industry, economy and the aid of his wife's counsel, he lias brought himself into comfortable circumstances. He married Miss Caroline Wise in 1811, and of their 8 children 6 are living; 3 of the sons were in the last war. In polities Mr. C. is a Eepublican.

iV. W. Dewey, farmer, sec. 5; P. 0., Millersburg; was born in this county Jan. 15, 1S52, the son of C. B. and Mary Ann (Benjamin) Dewey, natives of Ohio and of English ancestrj' ; mother was killed by a runaway tearj. He was educated in the common school in Clinton tp., this county, at the "rieasant"' school-house. In 1872 he married Mary Hoffman, and they have 3 daushters. Mr. and Mrs. D. are members of the Lutheran Church. He is a Democrat. His land comprises 53 acres.

D. W. Dinius, miller at Benton, was born Oct. 21, lSi9, in Huntington county, Ind., the son of Hirain and Hester (Eripley) Dinius, natives of Ohio and of German descent; educated in the common school in this State; learned the miller's trade, and was eight years in the employ of C. & E. Hawks, Goshen; he was brought up, however, on the farm. As a miller he has been remarkably successful. He is now running the "Benton Mills," having rented them Aug. 9, ISSO, when the}' had pretty well run down, but he has brought them up to the highest standard. Business has so increased that he now runs the mills night and day, being assisted at night by his father. In 1872 Mr. D. W. Dinius married Sarah Moore, and they have 2 sons. Politically Mi'. D. is a Kepublican.

Willia'in li. £aton, carpenter and farmer, sec. 1; P. O., Millersburg; was born in Union connty, this State, in 1835, and is a son of Samuel and Nancy (Simpson ) Eaton, of English ancestry, father a native of Yirginia, and mother of Tennessee; educated in the common schools of his native county; in 185S he married Sarah Moss, and they had 1 child, Henry M., born Aug. 11, 1860, who is now a farmer. Mrs. Eaton died in 1861, and in 1863 Mr. E. married Lucretia Allen. He owns 70 acres of good land, 50 acres of which he lias cleared of heavy timber, mostly himself. Politically he is a Pepublican, and he has been School Director in this tp. He had. three brothers in the last war, two in the 36th Inf., and the other in the 9th Cav. All three suffered wounds in battle.

English aiicesti'3% the father a natire of Yirgiriia. The subject of this Dotice was educated in the comuion schools of this county; in 187:^ he married Marv Carr, and they have 3 sons, Charles and George D. Mr. F. owns SO acres of land, and is a successful farmer; has lived in this county since 1853. Is a Republican.

John Freeland., farmer, sec. 2; P. 0., Millersburg; was born in Preston county, W. Va., Dec. 23, 1S12, the son of John and Mary (McCann'lFreeland; father a native of Maryland and of English desceirfc, and mother a native ot Pennsylvania and of German and Irish descent; educated in the log school-house in Yirginia; came to this county in 1S35, arriving with ouij^ $3.50 in his purse; obtained a start in life by working out by the month, and lately he has been offered §14,000 for his farm, which is in the suburbs of Millersburg. He has been promineutI_v identitied with the history ofthis community. In 1837, in Benton-, be married Sarah Longacre, and H of their 7 children are living; the 3 sons are married. Mrs. F. is not now living. She was a Baptist, as is also her husband.

John Gordy./iiwmcY and stock-raiser, sec. 31; P. O., Syracuse, Ind.; was born Aug. 17, 1820, in Ohio, and is the son of Wra. and Jane (Stewart) Gordy, father a native of Maryland and of English descent, and inother a native of Ireland. Mr. G. was educated mostly in thu common schools of Ohio; iias buen a farmer all his life; now has 120 acres of very valuable, well-improved land; he settled on his present estate in 1835, and is therefore one of the most prominent pioneers. Politically, he is a Pepul>lican, and in religion both he and Mrs. G. are members of the Church of God." in which he lias been Elder and Deacon. His wife, nee Mary Ann Maun, he married in 18-12, and of the S children born to them 3 sons and 2 daughters are living. The eldest son, G. W., was killed in the i.var of the rebellion, he liaving enlisted in Co. G, 48th Inft, in 1863.

Joseph R. IInwli'int< was born in this county, near Goshen. Nov. 11, 1833, sou of G. "\V. and Electa A. iSweet) Hawkins, of German descent, father a native of Pennsylvania, and mother of Ohio; they were pioneers here, but she died when the subject of this sketch was a small boy; the latter was placed in the hands of other parties, with whom he passed his early life upon a farm, without ever attending school. Learning the tanner's trade in Benton, he worked at it two years; but since 1S£8 he has run the Benton saw-mill most of the time; this mill was built in 1847. l-W early life Mr. Hawkins had a nari'ow escape from the rapacious jaws of a pack of wolves. He and his younger brother were out after the cows and got lost; when it became dark they heard the wolves, and Joseph immediately climbed a tree and helped his brother up into it by aid of his foot; the wolves soon arrived, and would not leave the place until the light of the torches borne by the anxious neighbors hunting for the lost was fully upon them.. In after years, when Mr. H. was performing his duty as Constable in arresting a felou named John Long, the culprit shot him in the side near the heart, and thus did the subject of this notice have another very narrow escape with his life.

Dec. 25, 1S54, Mr. H. married Mary J. Corns, and they have a son and a daughter, namely: George Fremont, born in 1S-t6, and Cynthia Viola, born in 1863. in 1S65 Mr. H. enlisted in the 152d Ind. Yol. Inft., Co. A, and was discharged at the close of the war. Politicallj-, he is a Republican, and was once a Constable for 15 years. Mrs. H. is a member of the M. E. Church.

Tilin.an. mih/sh. {a.Ymev and stock-raiser, and musician, sec. 2; P. O., Millersburg; was born in -Juniata county. Pa., Feb. 9. 1S33, a son of Peter and Catharine (Weller) Hilbish, both of German descent, the former of whom was born near Philadelphia in 1797, and died July 13, 1S5S; was brought up on a farm, attended school but little, though by perseverance he educated himself so as to be able to teach school, which he did two terms, to the satisfaction of his patrons; he studied his books nights and at odd intervals, while he was the eldest of the children and had to work hard. He early exhibited a faculty for excellence in music, which he has duly cultivated until he now ranks as the best musician in Elkhart county ; he has composed several pieces; excels also in teaching mnsic, both vocal and instrumental; lias a fine library on musical science, and by taking the chief musical periodicals of the day he keeps himself posted in the modern progress of that science; he can play ujion various musical instruments of the day, his favorite being a combination organ; the one in his possession is one of the best.

In l.SoT' Mr. Hilbish married Miss Melissa, daughter of John and Catharine (Summy) McBride, the former of Scotch-Irish descent and the latter of German, and they have 10 children, namely: Frances, Amma, Lowell, Miron, Leighton. Kalpli. Celestia, Effie, Willard, Minnie and Orplia.

When Mr. H. commenced in life he had Init little means except his good sense and physical capacity, and by these he has accumulated considerable property. He owns about 1,500 acres of land, raises and sells cattle, hogs and sheep. He is careful and cautious in all his transactions, strictly honest, and is therefore one of the most influential citizens of the county. He is a member of the Keformed Church, and Mrs. H. is a member of the M. E. Church.

It is said by those personally acquainted with him for years that he is not only a kind and affectionate husband and father, but that he is also genial, kind and hospitable to those who visit his house, and that his kindness extends to those who are in his employ, and that kindness even extends in a remarkaljle degree to his dumb brutes, especially his horses, of which he has some very fine specimens. It is also said by those best acquainted with him, that he is not only strictly honest in all his dealings with his fellow men, but

David Hire, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 26; P. 0., Ligonier; was born in this countj' in lSi2, and is a son of John and Mary (Blue) Hire, natives of Ohio, and father of German ancestry; educated in the common school in this tp!, in District No. i; in 186T he married Rachel Knox, and the)' have 2 sons and 1 daughter,, namely: George Anderson, Linval Justin and I^ettie Ennola. Mr. and Mrs. Hire are both members of the M. E. Church, and he is a prominent Kepublican, competent for almost any office in the county. He owns SO acres of good land, but he is still somewhat in debt. He is an industrious, liberal man. In 1862 he enlisted in Co. I, Tlth Ind. Vol. Inf and was discharged in 1865. He was in the battles of Jonesboro, Mission Ridge, etc.

Jesse Hire, farmer, sec. 13; P. O., Ligonier; was born in Ross county, Ohio, Jan. 21, 1811, the son of Randolph and Mary Ann (Iman) Hire; when of age he settled in this tp., at the same time with his parents and shortly after his first marriage, iu 1832. At this time he had nothing with which to mate a start in life except the ability and disposition of himself and young wife to be industrious and economical; he was even barefoot, had not sufficient clothing, and only five cents in money. The first two years he worked at digging and walling wells, whenever he could find that kind of work to do, and during the spare time he followed hunting and fishing. In this way he began to accumulate a little, and after awhile, by the aid of other occasional odd jobs, he obtained money enough to commence to buy and feed stock; the stock was brought to him, instead of his going after it, as the business was considered a good one, and his reputation outstripped that of all competitors. The neighbors brought along their stock especially about tax-paying time, and if Mr. Hire was away from home they would leave their stock in his cattle yard: afterward, sometimes after many days, Mr. Hire would pay them, setting his own price, and they were always satisfied.

Mr. Hire had but a few days' school education in his life, but he is a successful farmer and business man. At onetime he owned 400 acres of good land, and he says he has cleared 200 acres of heavily timbered land by himself He has given land to his children, and he now owns 2i0 acres, on sec. 13, where he has lived i6 years. He is the father of 14 children. 10 of whom are living. He has been married three times, and by his first wife he had 4 children, by his second wife 8, and by his third 2. In politics Mr. H. is a Democrat, having cast his first vote for Gen. Jackson.

Baltzer Juclay, a prominent pioneer, was born in Preble county, Ohio, in ISIS, the son of Heni-y and Elizabeth (Butt) Juday, natives of Rockingham county, Va., and of English and German descent; educated in the common schools of this State, having emigrated here in 1S36. He is one of the few who are admitted to the county fair free on the ground of having been a resident of this county for iO years. In 18i3 he married Ann Price, and they had 2 children. 1 of whom is living. Mrs. J. died in 1815, and Mr. Juday in 1S48 married Elizabeth Heltzei, and they had 5 children. She died, and Mr. J. subsequently married his present wife, by whom he has had 11 children. The parents are members of the Christian Church, and Mr. J. in politics is a Democrat. The pioneer experiences of Mr. Juday are many, and for an outline of those which are characteristic we must refer the reader to other parts of this volume, where many pages are devoted to the subject. Residence, sec. 13; P. O., Ligonier.

John M. Juday, firmer, sec. 20 ; P. 0., Syracuse ; was born in 1838 on the section where he now resides, and is a son of Michael and Margaret A. (Brenner) Juday, of German ancestry. In 1867 he was married to Margaret A. Miller, and they have had one son, "Warren C who was born June 15, 1869. Mrs. M. is the daughter of Wm. Miller, and was born in this State in 1841:. She is an intelligent lad}*. Both herself and husband are advocates of Republican principles, and he has always voted with the Republican party. He is a member of the Q. B. Church. In business matters he has been successful, and he now owns 87 acres of land worth $.50 an acre. His fathei- died Dec. 30, 1872, and his mother is still living.

Dr. S. £. Kijler. deceased, was born in 1806, in Frederick county, Md., the son of Jacob and Ruth (Brown) Kyler, father of German and mother of German aud Irish descent; educated in the high school at Xenia; studied medicine in Bellbrook, 0., with Dr. Bell; earned his way by teaching school and splitting rails; commenced practice in Benton in 1838, being the first physician here. In 1838 he married Susan Ann Coy, a daughter of Henry Coy, of Ohio, and was born in Greene county, that State, of German ancestry; they had 2 sons and 2 daughters. Darwin, the eldest son, was killed in the war of the rebellion, at the battle of Jonesboro; he had enlisted in the 71:th Ind. Vol, Inf , Co. I. William B., the second son, is married and living in Benton. The daughters, Mary J. and Fannie M., are living with their mother on the farm of 57 acres adjoining Benton. In religious belief Dr. Kyler was a Universalist; Mrs. K. is a member of the Reformed Church, and the daughters are Methodists. The Doctor was a Whig until the organization of the Republican party, since which time he acted with this party. The public oftices which he held were those of Tp. Trustee and Overseer of the Poor. At the time of his death, m 1877, he was the oldest practicing phj'sician in the county.

ArcftS^innison ws-ihom in Virginia in 1816, the son of Mark and Nancy (Davis) Kinnison. natives of the -- Old Dominion," the father of English-Irish and tlie mother of Scotch-Irish descent; educated in the common schools of his native State; in 181:2 he married Charlotte Wood, and thej' have had 4 sous, all of whom are now living. In 1877 Mr. K. and his sun Ewin went to Europe and visited Scotland. France and Germany: Willis also spent a short time there the same year. Mr. Kinnison came to this county in 1833. and has ever since followed farming with success; he has given his sons 650 acres of land, and he still owns 150 acres. Two sons are married and living in ISToble county, lud., and two are unmarried and living on sec. 22. Mr. K. and all his sons are Eepublicans.

Joshua Kltson, farmer, sec. 26; P. O., Ligonier; was born in Ohio in 1S17, and is a son of Afford and Elizabeth (Row) Kitson, natives of Ohio and of English and German descent; educated in the common schools of Ohio and Indiana; settled in this tp. in 1861. In ISTl he married Melinda Hire, and they have 2 sons and 1 daughter. Mrs. K. is a member of the M. E. Church. In politics Mr. K. is a Democrat. In business aiiairs he has been remarkably successful. He owns 160 acres of land, most of which is in a high sta'e of cultivation.

William Koonce was born in Virginia in 1620, the son of Michael and Susannah (Miller) Ivoonce, natives of Yirginia, and of German descent ; educated in the old-fashioned log school-house; was married in ISifJ to Catharine Christe, and they have had 3 children, all of whom are living, 1 daughter at home. Mr. Iv. is a farmer, now owning 80 acres of land, and was getting along well with his vocation until he was taken sick some years ago ; for about a year now he has been bed-fast. He reads considerabl}', is an intelligent man and is a Republican. He and his wife are both members of the M. E. Church. Mr. Koonce was a resident here when coon-skins were legal tender for all debts, and when it was impossible for man to exist without the deer and coons and other animals of the forest, which they could kill and eat. Then people went to mill on horseback; the mails were carried also on horseback, and there were no wagon roads.

WiUiara Long, farmer, sec. 10; P. O., Millersburg; was born in Pennsylvania and brought up in Wayne county, 0., from the age of seven until the year 1865; he is a son of Jacob and Ann (Sasden) Long, natives also of the Keystone State, father of German and mother of Irish descent. Both of Mr. Long's grandfathers v^-ere in the war of the Revolution, rie was educated in the common schools of Ohio; is a natural mechanic and can turn his hand to almost anything. His first marriage was to Sarah A. Ewalt. Sept. 28, 1858, and they had 6 children; she died in 18 - . His second marriage was in .Vpril, IS - , to Susan Muldoon, by whom he has had 7 children. He came to Elkhart county Oct. 12, 1S6S. settling on sec. 10, this tp.. where he still resides. In 1878 his house and household furniture were destroyed by fire. He owns 176 acres ot land and other property, all of which he has made by his own exertions. He is just completing a new house, at a cost of $2,500. He is of a literary turn of mind, and is especially posted in law. He has practiced at the Bar. particularly in Allen county, with more than average success.

Thomas Longacre, blacksmith in Benton, was bora in tliis county in 1831, and is the son of John and Sylva (^Hayes) Long-acre, natives of Virginia, and of German descent; educated in the conimon schools; married in 1S58 to Mai-y Ann "Willis, and they have had 2 boys and 3 daughters. Mr. L. is a Republican, and has held the ofBce of Assessor six terms. During the war he enlisted in the 152d Ind. Yol. Inf., Co. A, and was discharged at the close of the war. His father was Captain of the militia in Tennessee in an early day; he came to this county in 1829. and was a member of the militia company here; he served six months in an Indian war. He was a prominent man in his day; was Tp. Trustee several years, and in politics was a Jackson Democrat.

Luckey, jr., farmer, sec. 25; P. O. Ligonier, Ind.; was born in 1838 in Pennsylvania, the son of James and Sophia (Tervis) Luckey, natives of Virginia, father of Irish descent, and mother of " American " and Indian, being a descendant of Pocaliontas. Mr. Luckey, the subject of this sketch, was educated m the common schools; came to this county in 1836. April 14, 1869, he married EosaTina Barbra, and they have had 3 sons and 1 daughter, namely: John B.. born March 1. 1870; William T., Aug. 2, 1872; George W., Feb. 27, 1876; and Eertha J., Sept. 22, 1878. Mrs. Luckey was born in German)' in 18-14, and was brought to this country \rj her parents, who settled in Ohio, and came to Indiana in 1853. Mrs. L. speaks the German as well as the English. In 1862 Mr. Luckey enlisted in Co. I, 74th Ind. Vol. Inf.', and was discharged in 1865; during the time he was appointed a non-commissioned officer but refused to serve. He was in every battle in which his regiment was engaged; was with Sherman on his grand march to the sea; was shot in the hand at Chickamauga. Politically he is a Democrat. In farming he has been moderately successful; now owns SO acres of land. Mr. Lucke3-'s father was an early settler in this county and a prominent man in his day. He had a finished classical education ; was a successfnl teacher many years, and was also a practical surveyor. He was prevailed upon to run for the office of County Surveyor in 1861, which year he died, aged 77 years. He had also been a soldier in the war of 1812.

Jacob MoUutt^ farmer, sec. 12; P. 0. Ligonier; was born in Ohio, 1814, and is tlie son of Alexander and Elizabeth (Tillman') McITutt, natives of Tennessee, father of Irish and mother of German descent; educated in the log school-house of pioneer times, in Preble county, O.; in 1833 he married Sarah Price, and they have 2 sons and 1 daughter. Mr. MciN^utt came to Noble county. Ind. , settling near wliere he now resides in 1834, and 11 years ago he moved to sec. 12, his present residence, where he owns 157 acres of land. He remembers when tliis part of Indiana was little more than an unbroken wilderness, and when he saw sometimes as many as 50 deer in one herd. Politically he is a Democrat. Mrs. MclN'utt is a m_ember of the Christian Church.

Michael F. Myers, farmer, was born in Montgomery county. O., Nov. 16, 1839, the son of Michael and Elizabeth (Frantz) Mye'rs, of German descent, father a native of Maryland, mother of Virginia; educated in the common schools of Ohio. June 26, ISTO, he married Cynthia Biake, and they have 2 daughters, Lilly M. and Matilda. Mr. Myers owns 160 acres of land, and has been a successful farmer. Politically he is a Republican.

Samuel Ott, one of the oldest citizens of Benton tp., was born in Preble county, O.. Dec. 5, 1S09, son of Frederick and Katie (Beard) Ott, natives of Virginia, and of German descent; educated in the frontier school-house; in 1S31 he moved to this county and commenced to improve a quarter section of land, where he lias ever since resided. He has seen the country about him grow from a wilderness, with but here and there a settler, blossom into fruitful fields and support a dense, civilized community. In 1832 he married Miss Anna Rookstool, and they had S children, 6 of whom are now living. Mrs. Ott died in 1866, a member of the Evangelical Church, of which denomination Mr. Oct is also a member. In political matters he is a Republican, and is a man highly esteemed in his community.

Thomas Prlekett was liorn in tliis county in 1833, and is the son of Jacob and Thirza (Pindell) Prickett, natives of Virginia, and of English ancestry; educated in tlie common school; in 186i he married Martha M. I)arr, and they have had 5 children, all of whom are living. Mr. P's. occupation has been farming, but he has run a saw-mill for the last 12 years. In politics he is a Republican; is Tp. Trustee. Mr. Prickett enlisted in Co. E, 29th Inf., in July, 1861; was transferred to the 9th Inf. before he was mustered in; Dec. 12, 1861, he was elected Orderly Sergeant March 3, 1863, 2d Lieutenant; and Sept. 20, 1863, was prom.oted 1st Lieutenant, which position lie resigned the iiext year on account of business at home.

Daniel Rex was born in CMnciunati, O., in 1815, the son of John and Nancy (Wliistler) Res, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent; was educated in the common schools of Ohio, and was married comparatively early in life to Delilah Vittle, and of the 11 children subsequently born to them 7 are living, 2 sons and 5 daughters, the eldest of whom, Sarah Jane, is the wife of Mr. Jonas Frantz, of Goshen. Mr. R. is not a member of any religious denomination; politically he is a Democrat. He owns a farm of 160 acres of land, and in his business has been iinancially successful.

Anthony Rink, farmer, sec. 11; P. 0., Millersburg; was born in Clinton tp.. this county, Oct. 21, 1841, the son of George Jacob and Catherine (^Clinei Rink, natives of Germany, who came to this tp. in ISiO. where they still reside. Anthony is the eldest son in a family of 11 children, 7 of whom are living, all in this county, and 0 are married. The subject of this notice received his education mostly in the common-schools of this tp. In 1866 he married Margaret Lesh, and they have had -'half a dozen" boys, as he expresbed it. In 1861 Mr. Rink enlisted in tlie Titli Ind. Yol. Inf., and was disch?.rged at tlie close of ilie war; was in all the battles in which his regiment was euo-aged, iucludina' that of Missionary E,idge, and was wounded at tlie battle of Jonesboro, Ga. He owns 83 acres of land valued at $60 an acre. He and his wife are members of the Catholic Church, and he is a Democrat, believing in the union of States and a government of the people, for the people and by the people.

Joseph Rippey, farmer; P. 0., Syracuse; was born in Jackson tp., this county, Oct. 30, 1831, and is the son of Matthew and Jane T. (Montgomery) Rippey, natives of Ohio, father of English and mother of Irish descent. His father was an early settler in this connty, and is a wealthy and enterprising farmer living in Jackson tp.; has represented his county in the State Legislature. The subject of this sketch received his education mostly in Jackson tp., this county, and partly in the high school at Goshen; he has been remarkably successful as a farmer and stock-raiser; he m&kes the short-horn Durham a specialty, and usually receives the first premium on the cattle he takes to the fair. Besides fine cattle, he keeps a stock of horses and h(jgs. He has one calf for which he paid $175 when it was six montlis old. He has 320 acres of land, most of which is under good cultivation; has also a neat and substantial residence, barn, out-buildings, etc. Jan. 29, 1S57, Mr. Eippe}' married Sarah B. Snyder, and they have 3 sons and 2 daughters; Mrs. R. is a daughter of Jacob Snyder, who was a native of Peniisylvaiiia, and of German ancestry; she was born in Ohio. Mr. R. is a Democrat, and was Constable for the year 1859. A portrait of Mr. Rippey appears in this work. James Roach, farmer, sec. 15; was born in Warren county, 0., in 1838, the son of James and Maria (^Hampton) Roach, natives of Yirginia, father of Welsh and mother of English descent; educated in the common-schools of Indiana and Hillsdale (Mich.) College. Sept. 16, 1861, he enlisted in the 30th Ind. Yol. Inf., and was discharged Oct. 1, 1804; he was at the siege of Corinth and several other battles; was a non-commissioned officer a part of the time. In 1^71 he married Paulina Baker, and they have 1 daughter and 1 son, Carrie Dell and Albert D. Mrs. R. is a member of the " Chnrch of God." Mr. R.'s mother is still living with him, 71 years old, and has li^'ed in this county ever since the subject of this sketch was two and a half years old. In earh' day all kinds of timber were burned in heaps to get them out of the way, but now a tree is frequently worth $100, and Mr. Roach has one for which he has been offered $115.

Thomas W. Boach, farmer and stock- raiser, sec. 15; was born in Warren county, 0., in 1836, brother of the preceding ; educated in the common schools in this connty; married in 1863 to Hnldah Harper, and they have 3 sons and a daughter. Mr. R. is an " old settler" in this county as he was but five years old when he was brought here by his parents, who settled on sec. 15 on the day that

Gen. Harrison took his seat as President of the United States. ' This tp. was then a wilderness, the woods alive with squirrels, wild turke)'' and deer. Mr. Roach, the subject of this sketch, has traveled some in the West; tanglit school awhile in Illinois. Here he owns 120 acres of land, a residence costing about §3,000, splendidl_y finished, and as a farmer he has been very successful. Is a Eepablican and has served several terms as School Director.

John Roohstool, farmer, sec. 5. is a pioneer of this county; was born in Virginia in ISIS, son of George and Catharine (House) Rookstool, natives of Virginia and of German descent; educated in the Ohio common school; by occupation he was a farmer, but has also followed threshing for the last 30 years. In early life worked at many kinds of business, including that of the still-house; but he has been a temperate man, and thinks he has never drank as much as a quart of whisky in his whole life. He owns 120 acres of land, and has made most of his property by his own exertions. When he first came to this county he made his home with Jacob Ott, an uncle of Samuel Ott; for several years his inci-ease in this world's goods was very slow, but by indnstryand economj' he has made himself comfortably circumstanced. His first marriage was to Mary Ott, who lived bat a year afterward, and May 11, 1851, he married Catherine Kitson, and they have had 13 children, 11 of whom are living, 3 sons and S daughters. Mr. R. is a Democrat, and has been Supervisor two or three terms.

George Simpson, i&Ymei\ie<i. 1; P. O., Millersburg; was born in Tennessee Oct. 7, 1S19, the son of Roadham and Mary (Tnomas) Simpson, natives of Virginia, and of English descent; attended school but a few days in his life, but is successful as a farmer. June 19, lSi3, lie married Margaret Justis, and 10 of their 13 children are living, 4 boys and 6 girls. Mr. S. emigrated to this county in 18-4S, settling the ne.xt spring on sec. 1, where he is still living. He and his wife say that they were never so happy as when they got the timber cut away far enough from the house so that they felt secure in time of a storm.

Mrs. M'lrgaret Simpson was born in Baden, Germany, in 1836, and was a daughter of Michael and Catharine (Desson) Barton, who emigrated to this country when the subject of this sketch was a j^oung child, and resided for some years in Pennsylvania; in 1860 they moved to this State, where they still reside. In 1862 Miss Barton was married to John Simpson, a native of Tennessee, born in 1812; in 1830 he came to Indiana and settled on sec. 2, this tp. He was a successful farmer, in politics a Democrat, was Tp. Supervisor one or more terms, and finally died Aug. 14, 1375. The children are: Estella, born Dec. 23,''lS64; Henrv, Jan. 6,1867; Frederick, May 28, 1869; John, Oct. 5, 1872; and Mary Catharine, Dec. 5, 1874.

i^oali Stark, I'armer, sec. 12; P. O., Millersburg; was born in Pennsylvania in 1833, the son of Philo and Permelia (Haden) Stark, father a native of Rhode Island, and of English descent, and mother a native of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. Mr. Stark was educated in the common schools of this county, and has been all his life a farmer. In 1S57 he married Eliza Jane, daughter of William Simpson, the first settler on Elkhart Prairie (1S2S). Mr. and Mrs. Stark have 3 sous and 4 daughters. Mr. S. is a Democrat, and has been School Director three terms and Supervisor. He owns SO acres of good land.

Hiram Stetler, farmer, sec. 27; P. O., Benton; was born in Oliio July 12, 1S30, the son of John and Catherine (Shoup) Stetler. natives of Pennsylvania, and of German ancestry; educated in the common schools of this county ; learned the cooper's trade, at which he worked about IS years, when he was 36 years of age, since which time he has followed farming; started poor but has accumulated a handsome property by his own exertion, now owning 200 acres of land, worth $50 an acre, a brick house costing §2,000, a barn §2,500, etc., etc. In 1860 lie married Martha D. Vail, and they have 2 sons and 2 daugiiters living. She is a member of the M. E. Church, and he isallepublican; has been Justice of the Peace four yeai-s. He settled in this tp. in 1S3S, and in 1S65 he moved to sec. 27, where he now lives. His parents are still living in Benton. His father is a Democrat, but his 4 sons are all Eepublicans.

J. J. Stilhoell, deceased, was born in 1S18 in Ohio, of English and Irish ancestry; came to this county in a very early day, and died in 1870. His widow, nee Mary M. Richards, a native of the same State and of German ancestry, is still living on the home iarm, which is superintended by Benjamin, the youngest son and unmarried. Pie was born Nov. S, 1852, educated in the common school of this co\inty, and in politics is a Democrat.

John F. Stillwell, farmer, sec. 19, was born in Ohio, Feb. 3,1843, son of the preceding, and the oldest of a family of 6 children; Vvhile a lad at home he was noted for his honesty and frankness in the confession of wrong; was educated in the common schools of this State. In 1862 he married Mary A., daughter of Samuel Ott, and they have 4 daughters. Mrs. S. is a member of the Evangelical Chnrcb. Mr. S. is a Democrat and has often been desired by his friends to run for office, but this tp- is strongly Republican. He is one of the substantial men of this community.

John J. Stiver, farmer, sec. 5; P. 0., Millersburg; was born in Preble county, 0., in 1823, and is the son of Valentine and Margaret (^Cook) Stiver, natives of Lancaster county. Pa., and of German descent; they were among the early settlers of this community, settling in 1844 one mile south of where John J. now lives, and are perhaps the oldest couple living in the county, being 81 years of age and still keeping house. John J., the subject of this sketch, received his education in the common schools; in addition to farming he has run a threshing-machine for 25 years, doing a profitable business; he owns 153 acres of land. He was married in 1850 to Elizabeth Ann Shevrev, and 5 of their 6 children are living; John

Jesse D. Vail, the most widely known resident of Benton tp., settled here in 1837; he was born in Fayette county, Pa., in 1814; his parents were San:iuel and A^nes (Griswell) Yail, father a native of New Jersey, of Welsh descent, and mother of Pennsylvania, of Eno-lish descent; received liis education in the pioneer log schoolhouse; his occupation has usually been fanning; was in the mercantile business four years, which was just long enough to break him up completely, but has always paid 100 cents on the dollar. His first marriage was to Elma Cope in 1838, and -2 of their 5 children are living; one son is studying law in Goshen. His second wife died without any children; by his present wife he has had 2 children, one of whom is deceased.

Mr. Yail has seen both sides of life. His pioneer experience was not alwaj's smooth, for in 18i0 he found himself in debt $1,000, and nothing to pay it with; but in 1849 he was again above his debts, and was worth nearly $500; since that time he has attended to farming and stock-raising, and is at present the owner of 215 acres of land, well stocked and improved. During the war he was a member of the militia board and spent most of his time in his duties as such; he was the enrolling officer of this tp. He is an out-and-out Republican, has held several minor offices, as School Director, Trustee, etc. lie was raised a Quaker, is triendly to Churches, but does not belong to any particular denomination himself. His wife belongs to the M. E. Church.

EU Verno7i, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 15; P. 0., Millersburg; was born in Ohio in 1S29, the son of Allen and Elizabeth Hage) Vernon, natives of Virginia, and of English descent; educated in the common school in Ohio; in 1853 he married Frances Butler, whose parents were among the early settlers of this county, and their 6 children are all living; their eldest sou is teaching penmanship in Ligonier College ; 2 others are attending the same institution. Mrs. V. is a member of the M. E. Church. Politically Mr. V. is a Republican, and has been Assessor five years. He came to this counti-y in 1852, cleared ov;r 100 acres of heavily timbered land, has done a great deal of hard work, is a successful farmer, now owning 140 acres of land.

Wdlicnn Wehrly. farmer, sec. 19; P. 0., Benton; was born in Ohio in 1S23, the son of George and Margaret (Fi.x) Wehrly, natives of Virginia, and of German ancestry; obtained most of his education after night by a firelight made of hickory bark gathered for that purpose; attended the subscription school a short time at the old-fashion log school-house; has taught school in this State 15 years, most of this time winter terms only. Feb. 5, 1851, he married Susannah Conrad, and they had 2 sons and 1 daughter; she died Aug. 9, 1S59, and Mr. W."in 1860 married Charlotte Dates, and their children are 2 daughters and 1 son, the latter now a babe, who -- must and shall be a congressman." Mr. W. is a Republican, has been Supervisor, Town Clerk, Trustee, etc.; owns 370 acres of land and is a very prosperous farmer. He often contrasts his present financial condition with what it was in 1S49, when he first came to this connty, and when all his earthly possessions consisted of $1.50, which he says was good money, - all in silver. He worked out by the day and month, and taught school at $10 per month, to get a start in the world. He helped to build the first school-house in his district, and taught the first school.

Daniel D. Whitmer, farmer, sec. 27; P. 0., Ligouier; was born in Stark connty, 0., in 1825, and is the son of Benjamin Whitmer. Both his parents were "Pennsylvania Dutch." Mr. W. was educated in the common schools of his native county, and Mav 21, 1862, he was married, and 5 of his 6 children are living. She died Sept. 28, 1876, a member of the Lutheran Church, to wliicli Church he also belongs. Politically he is a Democrat. He owns 130 acres of land. He recently built a large barn 70.\;40 feet, with a wing 30x40.

Henry Wilhhison was born in this State in 1S69, and is a son of Austin and Margaret (Hellser) Wilkinson, natives of Ohio, of English and GeriKan ancestry; was educated principally in the common schools of his native State, and attended high school two terms in Michigan. In 1875 he married Mary Grisamer, a native of this count}-, and their only child, lona, was born in 1876. Mrs. W. is a member of the Christian Church. Mr. W., politically, is a Democrat; has taught school several terms, follows farming, and financially has been successful.

L. W. Wiimer, proprietor of the Millersburg Steam Planing a'ld Saw-mill, was born in l^iagara county. N. Y., Fel>. 1, 1832; his parents were John and Mary (Herr) Witmer, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German ancestry. At an early age, with his parents, he removed to and settled in Benton tp., this county, where he received such education as the common schools of that time afforded, and assisted his father upon the farm until about the age of 16, when he learned the carpenter's trade, at which he continued to "work till 1S5S; then he made a trip to Colorado, being amona: the first to settle in that territory, and assisted in erecting tlm first shingle-roof building in Denver. There he remained some two and a hall years, a portion of the time employed as foreman for a prominent building firm, and at intervals was engaged in mining, and met with a fair share of success. He returned to Indiana and was united in marriage in 1S62 with Mary Ann, daughter of Abel and Catharine (McClellan) Lyons, the daughter of old residents of Noble county, Ind. They have had 4 children, 2 of whom are living, viz.: D. S. Witmer, now in his ISth year, and Lettie V., in her 13th year, both of whom are pupils in the Millersburg high school. Mr. Witmer is the proprietor of the extensive manufacturing establishment known as the Millersburg Steam Sawing and IPlaning Mill, which, under his management, has developed from a comparatively small business to one of much magnitude and importance.

He has been a member of the Board of Education, and Inspector of Elections for the tp. of Benton. Himself and wife are members of the Christian denomination. Mr. W. is an active Republican, having cast his first vote for John C. Fremont, in 1856. He owns 40 acres of fine land ia this tp., and 160 acres in Kansas. Mr. W. is wholly self-made, and is highly esteemed as a successful business man and worthy citizen.

Swegler Young, blacksniith, was born in Ohio in 1824, the son of George and Margaret (Swegler) Young, natives of Maryland, father ot Irish and mother of German descent; educated in the common schools of his native State; learned the trade of blacksmith, which he has followed ever since he was 16 3'ears of age; settled in Benton in 1845; Jan. 2, 1848, he married LacindaEahart. and they had 3 daughters and 1 son. Mrs. Young died April 19, ISSO. Their son James was married in May, 1879, to Etta Sloan. Mr. Young is, as was his wife, a member of the United Brethren Church; is a Republican, and has been Tp. Trustee 6 years, and is the owner of SO acres of land, worth $75 an acre, besides shop, etc. Mr. Y. is a man of great endurance and constitutional vigor, as he has not been sick more than three days in his lite.

The true history of tliis townshi)5. even from the most authentic sources available, is difficult to obtain, and cannot in all particulars be insured as accurate, from the fact that much connected with its settlement remains couched in remarkable obscurity.

This township was formerl}^ a portion of Concord; but in the vear 1S35 a division was made, and that portion lying between the Michigan line on the north and the St. Joseph river on the south, St. Joseph county on the west and Washington township on the east, was organized as an independent township; and from the '- Forest City " in Ohio, it was duly baptized and sprang into active life with the name of Cleveland." In the winter of lS37-'38 a petition was circulated suggesting that this territory should be again divided. The requisite number of signatures was received, the division accordingly made, and the eastern division, by proper organization, was made the township of Osolo.

The first settlement in Cleveland township was made about the year 1830, when Francis Eork. John and Frank Bashford and Mr. Bogart came and located by pre-emption on Cobert's creek on the western side of the township. Mr. Eork kept a public honse for a time, his house being about the first erected in the township. In 1834 this company was reinforced by the arrival of Mr. Dibble, Mr. Smith, D. J. and R. B. Clark, Mr. Jackson, Silas T. Mattox and possibly a few others. In the following fall, in 1835, came John and T. H. Evans, Walter Strong, Joseph Call, Samuel Houghland and Mr. Ormsby; also, soon afterward, J. D. Carlton and Mr. Bnrgitt. F. Bashford sold his pre-empted claim to Mr. Shiphard. T. H. Evans yet resides upon land of his first entry and upon which he first settled.

The first school was taught in 1835, which was held in a cabin belonging to Mr. Rork. The second term was taught by Miss Wealthy Evans, who was at that time but li years of age. The school room was soon found to be not sufficiently large to accommodate the school youth, who at one time, with accessions from the settlement at the south, numbered about 100. when a building of greater capacity was erected and schools were an acknowledged reality.

A settlement was begun in the southern part of the township by- Mr. Wagner, the Piersons and a number of others, who came in 1837. Several gentlemen by the name of Kedfield came from the State of New York, in 1835, and purchased a large tract of land lying ill this township and in the State of Michigan, adjoining. Mr. George Eedfield yet lives on a part of this purchase, being one of the wealthiest gentlemen in the township. Also the Ervin brothers are mentioned as coming in an early day and purchasing a large tract of land in the western part of the township, on which they made considerable improvement. George Ervin, one of the original owners, has since sold IjiiO acres of this land to the Notre Dame University, a large Catholic institution situated in St. Joseph county, on which this property bordered.

The first religious meetings were held in the school-houses, and the first preachers were Mr. Selcraig, an Episcopal, and Mr. Avery, a Universalist minister. The first church was built by the Methodist denomination, and stands on the township and county line, on the west. Jan. 12, 1878 a nieeting was called to perfect an organization looking to the erection or a church in the northern part of the township, in the locality now known as " Yankeetown." It then numbered about 25 members, among whom were Hiram Kautz, Andrew Kantz, Mr. and Mrs. Shinn, David and Susan Coleman, Joseph Dasher, Sarah Dasher, Hannah and Henrj' Dasher, Jacob Coleman, Amos Shinn, Lucinda Coleman, Sarah C. Shinn, Emeline Coleman, Agnes Kantz, Jonathan Brouse, Ester Brouse, C. Walter and Susan Walter, Mary Shafer, now deceased, and John E. Arbosest, - who immediately engaged zealously in the work, and as the result of that earnest determination, and the unselfish labors of all, they saw a house for worship erected within that year, being dedicated to that service Dec. 15, 1878. The building, in size, is 30xi5 feet, and 18 feet high in the main. The building and the o-rounds which the society purchased cost $1,800. Sunday-schools are continued throughout the year. During winter the attendance is about 60, and through the summer season the average is about 100. In 1878 the Methodists erected a fine and commodious church building, in a beautiful grove of oaks on section 2, in the southern part of the township.

In 1856 a flouring mill was built by Mr. James High, on Cobert's creek, in the southwest part of the township. The mill has two run of stone, is now owned by Mr. D. Darr, and is doing a thriviner business in that line.

The first election was held at the residence of T. H. Evans. Mr. Smith and Mr. Dibble were elected as justices of the peace, Mr. Evans was elected treasurer, and one of the trustees, which offices he held for several years.

The soil of this township o-enerally is very fertile, producing handsomely all kinds of farm crops. It is universally of a sandy nature and easy of cultivation. The farms are in the main under good cultivation, and many fine country residences are found. The farmers generally are iu good spirits, denoting prosperity, enterprise, tlirift and future liappiness.

Bioge.Iphical Sketches

JFoilowing are biographical notices of prominent citizens of Cleveland township, whose nationality, parentage, children, politics, religion, etc., are of interest to the commnnity.

T. H. Evans, an elderly farmer on sec. 29, whose P. O. address is Elkhart, was born in Rutland county, Vt., May 21, 1S03, the third son of Erederie and Wealthy (Cleveland) Evans. His mother was born in Connecticut, and died at the age of 86 years. His grandfather deserted from the old government of Great Britain, and with the notorious " Till '' came to America, and in the war of the Kevolution did valiant service in aid of the colonists in their struggle for liberty and independence. The subject of this sketch left Jiis parents at the age of nine years, to make his home witii Mr. Samuel Wright, who was a member of the Great American Eur Company. He lived with Mr. Wright, attending school and doing chores for board, nntil he was 14 years old, when he was placed in control of the saw-mill and oil mill owned by Mr. Wright. He made several expeditions with Mr. Wright to the headwaters of the Sennac, remaining about four montiis in the spring season, and three months in the fall, trapping for furs and bartering with the Indians. At the age of 19 he made a trip by water from Buffalo to Chicago, visiting the divisional points of trade established by that company. When 21 years of age, he superintended an extensive brick mannfactory at Dansville, New York. Jan. 5, 1826, he was married to Miss Lucinda Hughes, ot Washington county, New York, with whom he happily lived for more than half a century. Mrs. Evans died Nov. 6, 1879, at the age of 77 years. After their marriage they moved to Cuyahoga county, Ohio, where for the following nine years Mr. Evans was engaged in the wagon and carriage trade. In 1835 they came to Elkhart county, Indiana, and began life here on a new farm, npon which Mr. Evans yet lives. They had 4 children born to them. 2 of whom are yet living: Ann. who is now the wife of Mr. Asa Clark, a tin merchant in the city of Elkhart; and Horatio,

Mr. Evans is the owner of 120 acres of fine land, under a fair state of improvement and cultivation, which is worth $60 per acre. He is also an earnest advocate and supporter of the principles of Eepublicanism.

Jacoi G. Frank is a native of Pennsylvania, having been born in Washington county Aug. 27, ISOi. He is the third son of George and Margaret Frank. Mrs. Frank is a member of the Hewit family, of Pennsylvania. At the age of seven years his parents moved to Stark county, Ohio, whither he accompanied them, and worked with his father on his farm until his 27th year, when he began farming for himself.

In 1S32, in order that life should be more pleasant and success more certain, he united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Lewis, daughter of Wm. and jS^ancy Lewis, natives of Pennsj'lvania, where Elizabeth was born in the year ISll. They remained in Ohio for about 22 years, when they came in IS.^i-l: and located on the land where they yet reside, in the full enjoyment of age, peace, and plenty. Tliis union of 1832 has been blessed by the birth of 8 childi'en, 4- of which are yet living, and are all married. George married Miss Mary llnggle, and now resides in the city of Elkhart. Saloara, who is the wife of the lie v. Michael Grager, is a resident of Elkhai't. Elizaljeth. also, is a i-esideut of this city. B. Quesual married Miss Jennie White, of Michigaii. Franklin was a member of the 48111 Tnd. Vol. Inf, and died of fever in the hospital near Corinth, Miss., one of the thousands who gave their life for the salvation of the country of their birth. Mr. and Mrs. Frank are worthy members of the Evangelical Church. They now own SO acres of valuable land, well improved with good buildings, and under good cultivation, worth §60 per acre. Thus it is demonstrated that a worthy farmer is not without honor even in his own country.

D((vid Hunt.finger was Ijorn I^ov. 15. 1821, in Montgomery count}-, Ohio, son of Henry and Mary Huntsinger, both natives of jSTorth Carolina, and emigrated to St. Joseph county in 1831. In this count}' our subject gained his majority, and was married jSTov. 27, 181:7, to Miss Julia A. High, who was born in Miami county, Ohio. They have had 7 children, o of wliom are living: Alice, James J., Joh.n C, David E., and Sarah M. Mr. H. settled in this tp. in 1860, where he has resided since. He served nearly three years in Co. G. 71th Ind. Yol. Inf, and was in Sherman's famous march to the sea. Mr. and Mrs. H. arc members of the First. Baptist Chui-ch at Elkhart; P. 0., Elkhart.

Hirain Kaiitz was born in Union county. Pa., April 11, 1833. His parents, Cristian and Anna Mary Kantz, were also natives of Pennsylvania. His lather is deceased, and his aged mother now resides in Snyder county, Pa. The subject of this sketch was reared as a farmer, which occupation he followed for two years after he was of age ; at this time he embarked in the mercantile trade in partnership with William Bojer, at what was afterward known as Kantz, Pa., there being a postoffice established through the labors of Mr. Kantz. After a few years Mr. K. sold out and went to farming, which occupation he has followed since. He emigrated to Bristol, this county, in 1872, and here he onlj^ made a short stay, when he settled in this tp., where he has followed the vocation ol farming. Mr. Kantz was married Dec. 8, 1859, to Miss Casandren Walter, who was born Jan. 5, 1839, in Union county. Pa. They have had 7 children : Agnes P., Calvin A., Sarah J., ITora 1)., Annie M., Charles W. and Ernest. Mr. Kantz is one of the leading citizens of this tp. At present is Township Trustee. He and his wife are worthy members of the Lutheran Church. Residence, sec. 22; P. 0., Elkhart.

Mr. K. lived and worked on a farm with his parents until 23 3'ears of age, when he was married to Miss Sarah Click, daughter of Samuel Click, of Pennsylvania. They were married in Stark county, O., whes-e he had n)oved with his parents when 14 j'ears of age. Tlie}' lived i)i Ohio and continued farming until 1864, when they moved to Elkhart county, Ind., and located on the farm v\diere he now lives. They have had 3 children, 1 of which, Cornelius, died in Ohio at the age of seven years. The two yet livingare Gernianus D., married to Lovina Saunter, and resides in Elkhart county; and Samuel, married to Mary Xoyes, and also lives in this county.

Mr. Kuhns is the possessor of SO acres of excellent land, which is under a high state of cultivation, and worth, at a low estimate, $60 per acre. They are members of the Evangelical Church, much respected -in theii' community, and are living alone at their old home, in the full enjoyment of a retired farmer's life.

Leiand Ramadell^ deceased, was born in Vermont, Jan. 22, 1816, and is a son of Gideon and Sarah Ramsdell, natives of the same State. Mr. Pamsdell was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools, which were the best that country afforded. In his 20th year he went to Trumbull county, Ohio, where he lived till 1865, when he came to this county. He was married March 31, 1841, to Phebe King, and had 7 children ; of these, 5 are living, viz. : Henry, Addison (who married Lizzie Mock), Lyman, Albert and Milton. Mr. Pamsdell was quite a prominent man in this county. He left a farm of 240 acres, which was all accumulated by his own industrious efforts. He died Feb. 19, 1876, aged 60 years and 28 daj's. He had been a member of the Evangelical Church for several years. The respect in which he was held by the Church and community was attested by the large attendance at his funeral.

G- W. Shipha7'd. until recentl}' a famner on sec. 15. is a native of Vermont, having been born at Edwardsbnrg, in sight of the Green mountains, Aug. 30, ISIO. He is the youngest son of David and Diadama v^Hopkins) Shiphard, natives of Bennington, Yt. His father died when he, George, was 11 years of age. He was married in 1S32. at the age of 22 years, to Miss Fannie Gottrel, daughter of Nicholson and Abbie Cottrel, natives of Massachusetts. Mr. Shiphard -and Miss Cottrel wei"e in Cuyahoga county, Ohio, where they continued until 1S37, when thej' came to Indiana, and settled on the farm which he bought in 1S35. Mrs. Shiphard died in 1S3S. They had 4 children, of whom but one is yet living, Fannie, now the wife of Mr. Marks. Leander received a wound at the battle of Chickamauga, and died from the effects of that wound soon after. In the spring of 1839 Mr. Shiphard was married to j^chsah Cottrel, sister of his first wife. They have had i children. The 3 living are Lucia, now the wife of Mr. Dunama-ker, of Minnesota; Corwin married Miss Mary Luther and is living in ISTebraska. Solon, one of the deceased, while serving in the war of the rebellion, was taken prisoner, and for nine months was confined in Anderson ville prison; was afterward paroled, and when on his way home to "God's country" and when near Memphis, the boat on which they were sailing was blown to atoms by an explosion, and Solon's life went out before he reached the home of his father. Ella is married to Mr. Curtis and yet resides with her parents. The second Mrs. Shiphard died in 1871- The farm which Mr. S. has ust sold consisted of 160 acres, under a fine state of cultivation and worth $60 per acre.

Ch/irles L. Smith, farmer; P O., Edwardsburg, Midi.; was born in ( 'hautanqna county, !N'. Y., Oct. 21, 1826, the first son of Milo and Mary (Lathrop) Smith. His father was a native of Yermont, born Aug. IS, 1796, and his mother a native of Massachusetts, and died in Elkhart county in the 38th year of her age; father died in the 82d year of his age, at Edwardsburg. Charles remained on his father's farm until 13 years old, when they moved to St. Joseph connty, where he continued living with his parents until 21, teaching school and farming with h.is father until he was 27 years of age, when he married Miss Amelia Eoberson, daughter of Zachariah and Agnes Roberson, natives of New Jersey. He then bought a farm in Elkhart count}', on which he moved and where they have resided until the present tinie. They have had 3 children, all now living: Milo, who married and is living on the old farm; Charles A., who is now attending the college at Valparaiso, Ind.; the youngest, a daughter, is Cora B. Mr. Smith was nurt ured according to strict Democratic principles, but is now an earnest advocate and supporter of Republicanism. His grandfather went into the Revolutionary war as drummer boy and remained until peace was declared. Mr. Smith now owns a finely improved farm of 120 acres, with many e.xtra conveniences of his own arrangement .

Geo. A. Smith was born in Stark county, Ohio. Oct. 5, ISSli; his father, John S. Smith, was a native of Alsace, France, and came to America in 1S3S, settling- in Stark county, Ohio. He came to this connty with his family in 1S37 and settled in Cleveland tp. He died Oct. 29, 1ST9, lamented by all. He was a worthy member of the Evangelical Association; his two brothers, George and Peter, were soldiers in j^apoleon's army. He was reared on a farm and educated in the common school. He was married in 1SG2 to Miss Snsan Ever, daughter of Isaac Ever, and they have i children, viz.: Albert H.. Wesley E., Anna B. and Clara E! Jlr. Smith owns 280 acres of valuable land, and is engaged in farming and stock-raising. He held the office of Township Trustee for two terms. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are members of the Evangelical Association.

John Stewart was born in Dauphin county. Pa., Jan. 13, 1S07, sou of John T. and Barbara (Lingle) Stewart, both of German descent; his fiither emigrated to Ohio in 1807. John, the subject of this sketch, was reared on the farm and received his education in the common schools of Pennsylvania. He was married to Miss Margaret liudy March 15, 1S32, who was born May 20, ISll. in Dauphin county. Pa. They have 5 children: Margaret Samuel, John. David and Matilda. Mr. Stewart followed weaving in Pennsylvania, ami since locating here he has followed farming and stock-raising. Mi-. S. and also his wife are members of the Evangelical Church. Residence, sec. 26; P. O. Elkhart.

Jdcoh Wahl was born in Wirtemburg, Germany, Feb. 7, 1S09 His parents were George and Catharine ( Kaiffer) Wahl, of whom he is the youngest child. At the age of 22 he came with his parents to America and settled in Mahoning county, Ohio, where he continued working at the carpenter's trade, which he had learned and followed in the old country. He was married Aug. 23. 1838, in Mahoning count}', where lie and his wife continued to live until 1850, when they moved to Elkhart count}', Ind., and upon the farm wljere they now reside. Mrs. Wahl is the daughter of George and Sarah King, natives of Pennsylvania, where Mrs. Wahl was born August 23, 1816. Mr. Wahl was permitted to attend at the co!nmon schools of his neighborhood until his 14th year, which completed his education. Their children have been 8 in number, 6 of whom are yet living. They are Catharine ( now Mrs. Smith), Sophia (now Mrs. Jacob G. Gatz, of Grand Papids, Mich.), Jonathan H. (now a merchant in Illinois), Jacob (married and resides in the city of Elkhart), Wm. F. (married and living at Grand Papids i. and David (married and livingnear the old home in this county). Mr. Wahl is the owner of 200 acres of well-improved land, on which he resides, in the pleasant decline of old age. They are members of the Evangelical Church, in which society they have continued for U]jward of forty years, and when they shall have " finished their course" it shall certaink,- be said of them, that they " fought the good fight" and victory is surely theirs.

Goshen Lodge, No. 12, A. F. & A. M., with Jno. B. Walk, W. M., and E. G. Chamberlain, Secretary, at present writing, was organized under dispensation on Sept. 14, 1844, with nine members. The first officers were Azel Skinner, W. M. ; George Parsons, S. W.; Ebenezer Brown, J. W. The charter was granted in May, 1845.

Fravel Lodge, No. 306, A. F. & A. M., ot which H. Y. Curtis is "W. M., and E. H. Dunning, Secretary, was organized under dispensation Aug. 21, 1862, and the charter granted May 26, 1864.

Bashor Council, No. 15, K. A. M.,with J. K. Mulholland, I. M., and E. H. Dunning, Becorder, was organized March 12, 1861, under dispensation. The first officers of the council were C. A. Foster, T. I. M.; AV. B. Martin, Deputy, and H. G. Hale, P. C. W.

Fike Department Of Goshen

The first company organized at Goshen was known as the "Reliance Engine Company, No. 1," and dates back for service to Sept. 4, 1862. Its roll of last year showed a membership of 21 men.

The " Rescue Hook & Ladder Company, No. 1," was organized almost six years later, or on May -4, 1868, and at its last review (1879) comprised 24 members. Both companies were duly erected and chartered under the laws of the State.

The " Reliance Hose Company, No. 1," composed of 1 7 men, wa organized July 2, 1870, and the '' Hydraulic Hose Company, No. 2," completed its organization Jan. 25, 1872, and now possesses an available force of 17 men.

The companies subsequently organized are Triumph, No. 1," July 19, 1875, with a roster of 22 men; " Goshen Hose Company, No. 4," June 21, 1875, now composed of 22 men, and the companies Nos. 3 and 4, comprising youths under 21 years of age.

An address delivered by Capt. A. W. Simmons at the Parade and Review of Firemen, held at Goshen in May, 1879, dealt with the benefits accruing to the community from these organizations. He referred to the conflagration of December, 1877, when to make an effiDrt at saving from destruction the Noble and Crary buildings on Market street the Fire Department worked with unequalled perseverance, under every disadvantage that a freezing wind entailed, and succeeded in insuring the safety of adjoining property. On the first Monday in February, 1880, the Triumph Hose Company dedicated its new reading and club rooms at Goshen. The Hon. Henry D. Wilson dwelt at some length and very eloquently upon the success which had been attained by the Fire Department' recapitulated much of its iuterestiug history, aud concluded by a relation of the many benefits destined to accrue to the members from their new reading room and club.

The Brass Bands

The first band was organized here in 1855, by C Devor, with 11 performers. The second in 1864, by C. B. Grospitch; and the third in 1873, by M. Vanderbelten, known as the Goshen Silver Cornet Band. This musical company holds a very prominent position in the esteem of the people, and among the band circles of the State. It comprises many young men, who are destined in the future to reach the highest social and, perhaps, political honors which the county may bestow . This band carried off the prize from six competitors during the fireman and band tournament in September, 1877. The instruments are silver plated and have been specially manufactured for the company by Conn & Dupont, of Elkhart.

The Postoffice

of this city is conveniently situate, and well administered. An idea of the business transacted annually may be had from the fact that the letters, postal cards, packets and newspapers sent through the mails during the first week of November, 1879, aggregated 9,000. The present postmaster succeeded his father. Dr. E. W. H. Ellis, in that position in 1876.

The City National Bank

Tlie City National was organized in December, 187:2, with an authorized capital of $150,000, of which $50,000 was paid in. This paid-in capital has since been increased $20,000 by its surplus earnings, making the real capital of the bank at the present time $70,- 000. At its organization H. H. Hitchcock was elected President and Ira W. Nash, Cashier.

The directory included the President and Cashier, Messrs. J. H. Defrees. Joseph Lauferty, Abraham F. Wilden, Laporte Helfner, Henry J. Beyerle, E. W. Walker.

In the election of 1880, held by the stockholders of the City National Bank, the following directory was chosen: Messrs. J. H. Defrees, Dr. H. H. Hitchcock, A. C. Jackson, E. W. Walker, Joseph Lauferty, H. Elson, Ira W. Nash.

The bank has had a prosperous career. Its deposits average about $50,000, and its loans and discounts about $75,000. Last summer, to afford itself convenient quarters, it built the handsome stone bank building now occupied, the property representing a valuation of about $8,000. The office itself is neatly fitted up, and in the rear of the bank proper (which embraces cashier's and teller's department, vault, safe, etc.) are the private rooms of the officers. The resources of this institution in lS79-'80 were estimated at $178,- 932. Tliis is the only national bank at Goshen, and there is but one other in the count}'. Its record is one concerning which its officials may well feel proud, and its influence in business circles is scarcely to be estimated.

The Salem Bank

dates its organization in 1854, we believe, and for a number of years was a bank of issue, operating under a State charter with John Cook, Thomas G. Harris and Samuel Geisinger forming the directory. Of late years it has been a private bank, and in 18G5 Messrs. Milo S. Hascall and John W. Irwin became its proprietors, succeeding John Cook. Both of these gentlemen are old residents of the county. Gen. Hascall was a graduate of West Point, and also an attorney by profession. He was Clerk of the county when the war broke out; resigning that office he entered the army; became Colonel of the 17th Ind., and afterward Brigadier General; for a time was military commander of the State, and resigned in 1864; has since made his home here. He has been in the county about 30 years, and always has been an active business man. Mr. Irwin is also an attorney; for two terms was Treasurer of the county, and has lived in Elkhart county since 1832.

The resources of the bank may be set down at $105,000, made up of- building, safe and fixtures valued at $7,000, with cash assets, including capital, estimated at $98,000. The liabilities of this banking house in October, 1880, summed up $65,000.

Histokt Of Elkhaetcountf

commodious building, just east of tlie City National on Market street. Mr. Wilden continues to manage the concern with Mr. John L. Blue as Cashier.

This monetary establishment was organized in 1876 with W. A. Thomas and Laporte Heffner forming the proprietary. The actual resources of the bank in October, 18S0, were ^100, 000, with a large and neat office in Thomas' block valued at $9,000. The original projectors take an active part in administering banking business at present and are assisted by Mr. Miller, formerly County Recorder. The high reputation attained by these bankers is fully merited.

The Hydraulic Canal

During the year 1866 a project, which was to render Goshen a most important manufacturing town, was originated, and in 1868, brought to completion. Among those to whom thanks are mainly due for this great motive power are J. 11. Defrees, E. W. H. Ellis, Dr. M. M. Latta, P. M. Henkel, Cephas Hawks, Milton Mercer, John StaufFer and Adam Yeakeil. The western bank of this canal is formed from earth taken from the face of the plateau, above the valley of the Elkhart. The water of the river proper was diverted from its natural course, one and one-half miles southwest of the city, and turned into this channel at a cost of $100,000. This large investment dwindles into insignificance when the manifold advantages of this wealth-giving canal are considered. This fact will be further substantiated by the following review of the industries which almost owe it their present prosperous condition, if not their very existance.

These mills were established in 1868 by J. II. Defrees and son. The first year's operations consumed about 5,000 bushels of seed, of which 3,000 bushels were supplied by the county. In 1872, 10,054 bushels were purchased in the Goshen market, forming half the quantity operated upon that year.

The year 1878 was the beginning of the greatest progress. No less than 30,000 bushels of seed were converted into oil and oil cake. In 1880 the purchase of flax-seed reached 42,000 bushels, yielding 84,000 gallons of linseed oil. and 1,555,400 lbs. of oil cake.

The export of the manufactured oils and cake has reached an extent as surprising as it is consolatory. The position of this mill among kindred establishments throughout the country is high indeed. The enterprise which carried out the project deserves a most flattering recognition from those without as well as within the State. In the little city of the Elkhart valley, every advance made by such an industry is hailed with delight, and it is to be hoped that not only will the present large trade continue, but rather increase, until the enterprise of the proprietor calls for the erection of additions to the present extensive facilities which the mill offers.

The Grist-Mill

was erected at the instance of J. li. Defrees in 1879, south of Market street, on the hydraulic canal. This mill commenced operations in October, 1879, and is likely to prove another link in the chain of progress.

The flouring mill of Cephas and Eleazer Hawks was erected on the hydraulic canal in 1868. Previously, from 1836 to 1844, they operated the old grist-mill of Elias Baker, at Waterford, and in the latter year reconstructed it. In the new building, the work of the mill was carried on down to 1868, when the machinery was moved to the present establishment. In 1836, the mill gave employment to four men, now eight and often 10 hands are employed, and the trade has advanced from a few barrels per week to 1,000. The number of bushels of wheat converted into flour weekly is about 5,000, or 260,000 annually.

was built in 1872 for the purpose of a sewing-machine factory, and continued to be so used until July. 1874, when Hawks, Fravel & Co. purchased the building and projected the manufacture of furniture. This firm continued the making of furniture until July, 1878, when Hawks Brothers purchased the entire interest. The progress is marked indeed. In 1874 20 men were employed; now no less than 75 hands are directly engaged in connection with the work. The annual value of products in 1874 was about $20,000; of 1879, $65,- 000, and a sale of goods amounting to $80,000 may be reported for 1880. The cost of the original factory was $5,000, additions since

Messrs. C. & E. Hawks may be said to have built and equipped the two factories to which reference has been made. They also built the flouring mill, and the large double store occupied by the firm, - a three-story and basement building 44x85 feet - and in numerous other ways have advanced the best interests of the city.

The firm of Hawks Bros. & Co. have an enormous trade. They deal in dry goods and general merchandise, and in hardware; they have an establishment that is known far and wide through the county, and none of our business firms command greater confidence or greater trade. Together with all this, the employment of a force bordering on 100 is a boon to the city which cannot be over-estimated.

Goshen City Floueing Mills

These mills were erected in lS6S-'69 by Thomas aud Staufler, at a cost of $16,000. The same firm continued to operate it until the death of Mr. Stauffer m September, 1875, since which time Mr. W. A. Thomas has been sole proprietor.

The mill is a large frame building, situated upon the hydraulic, the main building being 67x33 feet, four floors, with an addition ot 16x50 feet. Water is the motor power used, and the mill is supplied with five run of stone, four of them four feet in diameter, and cue 30 inches. The capacity of the mill may be fairly stated at 100 to 125 bbls. of flour per day. Both custom and merchant work are done, the merchant flour being largely shipped to New York and Baltimore. The number of men employed at beginning was six, while at present there are 15. There are 30,000 barrels of flour produced annually, valued at $150,000. The cooperage attached gives employment to seven men.

was established in 1867-68 by B. G. Crary, and was the first building erected for manufacturing purposes along the hydraulic. The cost of structure and machinery was $10,500. The number of men employed at beginning was six, while at present the factory gives employment to 20 hands. The trade is principally in extension tables, and is carried over all the State. From an annual product of $6,000 the business has gradually grown, until now the whole-

The manufacture of furniture for retail trade includes bureaus, bedsteads, tables. The factory is a large frame building, three stories high and 30x80 feet. It is well equipped with machinery, water-power from the hydraulic being used, and during the day the factory presents a busy aspect.

The Goshen Woolen Mills

The woolen mill projected by C. B. Alderman and J. E. Winegar in 1869 and completed in 1870, proved one of the most extensive and profitable enterprises of the time. In April, 1871, Gen. M. S. Hascall entered into the partnership; in April, 187.5, J. M. JSToble purchased an interest, and in February ,1880, the old firm disposed of their entire interest to the firm of Noble, Kerstetter & Co. The company includes Messrs. King & Fields of the Clear Lake Mills, E. E. Kerstetter, of Elkhart, with Mr. Kerstetter and J. M. Noble, of Goshen. There are 1,040 spindles in use, and in October, 1879, self-operating spinnei's were introduced, at a cost of $2,500, while other improvements are meditated.

The mill is a stone and brick structure, the main building being 40x95 feet, three floors and basement. It has two additions, the dye house, one floor, 24x36 feet, and engine and boiler room, two floors, 36x46 feet, the second story being used as a drying department. The mill has really three sets: two for manufacturing and one for custom. The machinery is operated by either water or steam power, one 44-incli turbine wheel, taking its power from the hydraulic, being used, and also a 40-hor3e power engine with 65-horse power boiler. There are 680 spindles, three broad and eight narrow looms, together with all necessary dyeing and fulling and other apparatus. In the mill a force numbering 30 or more is usually employed.

The chief produce of the Goshen Woolen Mills are flannels, jeans, blankets and yarns, though some cassimeres and cloths are made. Besides having a large local trade the mill sells its goods very generally throughout six of the Western States, - Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, Wisconsin and Iowa, - and it pursues a policy distinctively its own, as, instead of virtually paying a commission to jobbers to introduce the goods, the firm sells direct to retailers. It has been a policy productive of good results, too, and the business has grown to such proportions that the " Goshen

Woolen Mills" are known fai- and wide. Aiming not only at excellence, bnt uniform excellence in manufacture and placing straight goods on the market at the lowest rates, the enterprise has worked out its own career. The value of sales for the first six months in ISSO summed up $50,000, which compares very favorably with the amount of sales effected during the corresponding period in 1S68, which scarcely exceeded $2Y.000. The cost of building and machinery was about $40,000.

The Saw And Planing Mill

located on the hydraulic canal possesses both water and steam power. The mill was projected in 1S64 by David Darr, who sold his interest in 1866 to John B. Drake. In 1877 0. A. Davis entered into a partnership, and subsequently purchased the entire concern. The cost of the original building is estimated at $4,000, while the value of the mill at present is $13,000. Its capacity is set down at 1,500,000 feet of hard lumber, sucli as poplar, walnut, oak, maple and hickory. In preparing the raw lumber for market 15 men receive constant employment. The value of annual product is set down at $20,000.

Though the mills just reviewed are all extensive and require a great water-power such as the canal bestows, yet half the advantages which the hydraulic oifers are not requisitioned. There is room for many additions to the industrial establishments of the city, and nowhere is a finer location presented than that which the neighborhood of the canal affords.

This iron foundry was started in 1863 by Messrs. Gortner & Smith. They built the large house now occupied by the Goshen Pump Company, Howe & Simmons' Chair Factory, and by the foundry. The building cost about $8,000, and the entire concern with machinery about $22,000. A lathe purchased in 1864 cost $960. In 1866-'7 the number employed was 40 men. The threshing machines of the firm are widely known over the State, and win for the manufacturers a prosperous trade. Since 1868 the foundry has been exclusively managed by . J. Gortner, and a steady business has been maintained. It is located near the L. S. & M. S. railway, the main building being a frame 40x110 feet, two floors, with foundry and blacksmith shop 36x80, and another addition 35x60.

The works are well provided with both iron and wood-working machinery, and has working capacity for full 50 men, though the force rarely numbers more than 20.

Goshen Pump Compant

This company, with W. L. Bivins as President, manufactures 40,000 pumps annually, and gives employment to between 25 and 30 men. It was established here in 1S72. The first pump factory was inaugurated at Waterford in 1S51, by J. Wegely, who in 1S53 disposed of his interest to Jonas Shively, and he in turn sold out, in 1855, to W. T>. Platter. Platter moved his machinery to Goshen, where he continued the manufacture until June, 1S79, when the works were purchased by the present company.

The factory was established in 1870, the present woi-ks, located by the side of the L. S. & M. S. railway, having been built by Mr. Walker in 1875. The main building is a two-story brick structure, 62x100 feet, with engine room 25x50. The motive power is steam, a 60-horse power engine being used, and in the works employment is given to a force usually numbering from 50 to 60 hands.