Fall Creek Township

Fall Creek Township

Within the present limits of Jefferson, at an early day, perhaps ls-ii or 1826, came Samuel Beavers, Anthony Sanders, Jane v irsh, and a Mr. Fleming, with some dtfiers. This town-

Source changes here: from History of Henry County, Indiana : Together with Sketches of Its Cities, Villages, and Towns ... Also a Condensed History of Indiana, Embracing Accounts of Pre-historic Races, Aborigines, Winnebago and Black Hawk Wars, and a Brief Review of Its Civil and Political History., published 1884; 14,355 words in this source stream.

Fall Creek Township

Fall Creek Township was formed in August, 1829. It was then eight miles from north to south and seven miles from east to west. Two rows of sections on the east and two on the south have since became parts of Jefferson and Harrison townships respectively.

The township is drained by the stream from which it derives its name and the tributaries thereof. The surface is undulating though but little broken. The soil is of good quality and the farms and improvements as good as the average in the county. A large part of the present inhabitants are either Virginians or descendants of natives of that State. Fall Creek Township is situated in the northwestern part of the county and is crossed from southeast to northwest by the Chicago, St. Louis & Pittsburg Railroad. It contains the thriving town of Middletown and the villages of Meehan icsburg and Honey Creek.

Township elections were at first held at the house of Abraham Thomas, who was the first Justice in the township. In 1832 the voting place was changed to Middletown. At a township election held in August, 1830, thirty votes were polled, of which three were Whig tickets. The only person still a voter in the township who voted at the above-mentioned election is Asa Warnick.

Three persons only made entries of land in Fall Creek Township in 1822 : Benj. G. Bristol, James W. Weir and Reuben Bristol. They did not settle until later. The first settlements seem to have been made on Fall Creek. The Keesling neighborhood, near Me- chanicsbnrg, was one of the first settlements. It began about 1824. In that vicinity lived Jacob, Peter, George, Daniel and John Keesling. William Stewart, John Hart, Jacob Koontz, Calvin Franklin, Abraham Thomas and John Swain came among the first settlers, about 1824 and 1825. Among those who settled in various parts of the township from 1824 to 1832 were David Davis, Absalom and Alexander Painter, Jacob Stanley, Asa Warnick, David C. Sherman, Wm. Berner, Joseph Bowman, Daniel and David Warner, the Fadelys, - John, Michael and Henry, - Abraham Showal er, Woodson and James Cummings, Jesse Clark, Hudson Hall, Andrew Barton, Abraham Devoye, Sr., Abraham Devoye, Jr., John Fessler and others.

The first mill in the township was a small corn cracker " erected south of Middletown, on Deer Creek. It was built about 1832 by Calvin Franklin and William Stewart. Later Calvin Franklin erected a grist-mill of a better type, and Benjamin Franklin, afterward a noted preacher, dug the mill-race. David C. Shawan settled two miles east of Middletown and built a gristmill on Honey Creek quite early. John Swain, an early settler, built the first mill on Fall Creek about three miles below Middletown. It now belongs to Isaac Adamson.

The early settlers of this township had to contend against malaria with all the other disadvantages of pioneer life. A few gave up the battle, and moved away on account of the unhealth fulness of the country. How no part of the county is freer from malarious infiuences.

The township officers for 1884-'85 are : A. S. Miller, Trustee; Justices, L. C. Mills, Middletown; G. H. Whiteworth, Honey Creek Woods, Mechanicsburg. Thos. Showal ter is Township Assessor. The population of the township was 2,054 in 1880, a gain of fifty from 1870.

Middletown, an old, well-built and prosperous town, is situated near the northwestern corner of Henry County, on the Chicago, St. Louis & Pittsburg Bailroad. The town was laid out in 1829 by Jacob Koontz, the first settler upon its site. The first sale of lots took place on Christmas day, 1829, at which time lots 4 x 20 rods in size brought from $3 to $20 each.

Koontz, the proprietor of the town, lived in a cabin situated where Dr. Welsh's house now is. He sold out and moved away soon after the town was founded. A family of the name of Gardner and Eli L. Parker and family lived in the village in 1830, but did not remain long. 'Squire Burr was the first permanent settler.

The first store was started in 1831 by Joshua Willetts, from Milton, Wayne County. David Fleming soon after started a store. Joseph Bowman, Henry Pierce and Minesinger were also early merchants.

Elide Parker kept the first public house. William A. Hurley, Esq., afterward kept tavern until his death. He died of the disease known as 'hnilk sickness," which aflfected many of the early settlers in this locality. *

Chauncy H. Burr came to Middletown in 1830. In 1835 he was elected a Justice of the Peace. He has held the oflice nearlv continuously ever since. He secured the establishment of the postoffice, was the first Postmaster, and has otherwise advan3ed the interests of the town. 'Squire Burr followed the tanner and currier's trade for over forty years.

The postoffice was established in 1830. The Postmasters have been: C. H. Barr, Joshua Willetts, Henry Pierce, Joseph Yount, N. F. Trayer, J. D. Farrell, W. W. Cotteral, J. T. Moore and J. D. Farrell.

About 1832 a large immigration from Virginia poured into the surrounding country, and as the latter improved, the village grew. In 1810 Middletown was incorporated on the petition of fifteen of its citizens. The town has always been a good trading point, and its commercial importance is steadily growing.

The first physician in this place was Dr. Joseph Henry, a native of Philadelphia, who came in 1832. He was a good physician and practiced here until his death. He was succeeded by Dr. G. H. Ballengall, Dr. John Horne, Dr. John I. Guysinger, Dr. W. F. Boor, Dr. R. T. Summers, and others.

The business interests of Middletown in 1884 are as follows: General stores - Hedrick & Sanders; Shoemaker, Gray & Co.; Holman & Sheets. Groceries - I. H. Chenoweth, Marshall & Barrett, Brunk & Bratton. Bakery - Thomas Mowry. Drug stores - A. S. Miller, L. A. Hess. Hardware - W. L. Cummings. Furniture and undertaking - Frederick Tykle. Hotel - Tykle House, Richard Wisehart, proprietor. Livery stable - James Will-

The Farmers' Bank, of Middletown, was organized in May, 1882, with the following Board of Directors: N. R. Elliott, Thomas Wilhoir, Geo. W. Tarkleson, R. A. Andes, Cyrus Yan Matre, W. H. 5!eesling. N. R. Elliott was elected President; Thomas Wilhoit, Yice-President; E. L. Elliott, Cashier; and B. H. Davis, Assistant Cashier. There have been no changes in the officers of the bank since the organization. The capital stock is $30,000. The bank is transacting a prosperous business. It occupies and owns a neat brick building, erected especially for its use.

This village is situated in the southwestern part of Fall Creek Township. It began in 1850, when a man named Dunham, from New Castle, started a store here. He remained but a short time. N. R. Elliott came in 1851, and began the mercantile business, in which he is still engaged. The plot of the village was recorded in 1858, by Peter Keesling and others.

The vicinity of Mechanicsburg was noted in anti-slavery days as being one of the stations on the Underground Railroad. John Swan, from Tennessee, was the railroad agent and conductor, received the fugitives and cared for them until they could be sent on to Westfield, the next station. Others in the neighborhood were favorable toward the work.

The business interests of Mechanicsburg in 1884 are as follows; Elliott & Cooper, Mrs. N. A. Goodwin & Sons, general merchants; W. H. Keesling & Co., dealers in groceries, hardware and agricultural implements; Dr. John M. Moore, druggist; John Elliott, proprietor of steam saw-mill; W. R. Miller & Son and A. J. Weaver, cabinet-makers and undertakers. The physicians are Drs. Joseph Weeks, J. M. Moore and Pendleton, all of the

Honey Creek

This is a village of nearly 200 inhabitants, situated in the eastern part of Fall Creek Township, on the C., St. L. & P. Railroad. The first house in the place was built in 1858, by David Fadely, who is still a resident of the place. He at the same time started a blacksmith shop. William Tomlinson and James Powers erected a saw-mill about the same time, and town lots were laid off on the land of Tomlinson. Sedgwick Tomlinson kept the first store. Adam Evans began the mercantile business soon after. The present business interests are as follows: Dry-goods store, Showalter & Sanders; grocery and hardware store, Showalter & Sanders; drug stores, John Miller, David Aucker; saw-mill, Madison Sharkey; grocery, John Sharkey, railroad and express agent; jeweler, Solon Neff; physician, J. T. Anderson. There is also a blacksmith and wagon shop in the village, and a hotel kept by David Fadely.

A school was taught about 1830, in a cabin situated on land afterward owned by James Cummins. An Englishman named Caldy Gardner came into the neighborhood in quest of employment and was engaged to teach the school. A log school-house was erected soon after.

Another primitive educational institution was set up in the Keesling neighborhood at an early date. A rude log building was erected for a school-house, and Robert Price employed as teacher. Lewis Swaim afterward taught in the same house.

The schools of Middletown are in a very good condition. Four teachers are employed. The school-house is a frame structure containing four rooms, and worth about $1,800. A new school-building will be erected soon. The last enumeration showed 271 scholars. The average attendance is about 220.

Bristol, Levi and Margaret Trout, Mrs. Bowers, Joseph Moore and wife, James McOune and wife and Sophia Summers. Benjamin Bristol was the first Steward, and James McCune the Classleader. The first services were held at the house of Benjamin Bristol. Among those who have served as pastors are the following : H. Smith, 2; 0. G. Beeks, 1; James Bradford, 2; D. F.

Stright, 4; E. E-ammel, 4; M. P. Armstrong, 3; Benjamin Smith, 4; J. F. Pierce, 2; Willie Brown, 1; Wm. Anderson, 2; J. F. McMahon, 2; A. G. McCarter, 1; T. A. Fish, 2; T. Sells, 2; M. Way man, 2; W. Peck, 1, J. W. Miller, 2. Several names are wanting to complete the list. The figures refer to the number of years served upon the circuit, often at different times. The meeting-house was built in 1858 at a cost of $1,500. The present church officers are: J. W. Miller, Pastor; G. W. Tarkleson and J. C. Daniels, Stewards; A. S. Fisher, Clerk. The church has had 428 members in all. The present membership is sixty-six, and the society is in a good condition. A good Sabbathschool is maintained. G. W. Tarkleson is Superintendent. The enrollment is 160; average attendance, 128.

FoU Creek Christian Church. - The Christians, or New Lights," organized a church about 1846. Among the early members were James Cummins and wife, Woodson Cummins and wife; held at the house of James Cummins. The church, situated west of Middletown, was built in 1860 at a cost of $1,500. Among the preachers have been Elder Wm. Hendricks, a pioneer preacher, who organized the church; Elders Miller, McDaniel, Depboy, Pfeifer, Dykes, Linn, Humphreys and others. Rev. Jas. P. Dykes preached here from 1858 until 1882. The present pastor is Elder Newhouse. The Deacons are Overton Cummins and Isaac Gustin. The membership is over 100.

Disciples' Church. - The Disciples' Church at Middletown was organized prior to 1850. Among the early ministers were Elders Benjamin Franklin, John O'Kean and Samuel K. Hoshour. Early members: Frank Murphey, Joseph Yount and wife, John Swope and wife, Daniel Franklin, Washington Franklin and wife, Enos Adamson and others. The first Elders were Joseph Yount, Jonas Shoemaker and John Swope. The church was erected about 1852. The congregation now has about 125 members. Elder Daniel Franklin is the present minister. The Elders are Polk Shoemaker, Wm. Berner and Luther Mills.

German Baptist. - Upper Fall Creek German Baptist church was organized in 1845 with about twenty-five members. Among the earliest members were the Millers, Hoovers, Snydmans, Van Matres and others. The church and its several branches have over 100 members. The meeting-house, known as the " old meeting house," on Honey Creek, was built about 1850. A branch meet ing was started in Middletown in 1882 and a brick meeting-house erected at a cost of $3,000. The present church officers are: George Hoover and Martin Rodecap, Bishops; David Teeter, David Hoover and Joseph Spitzer, Ministers.

Mechanicshurg Church. - The village of Mechanicsburg has but one church, which is free for all denominations, although deeded to the M. E. society. It was built in 1872 at a cost of $3,500. The Methodists and the Seventh Day Adventists have societies. The church is also used occasionally by the Disciples and the Universalists. The people of Mechanicsburg have chosen wisely in building one church for all denominations rather than one for each sect. It is an example worthy of imitation.

Honey Creeh V. B. Church. - The first meeting-house at Honey Creek was a log structure, erected by the Methodists many years ago. The organization disbanded and the house was afterward used for occasional preaching by other denominations. The U. B. church was formed during the pastorate of Rev. J. W. Kabrich. A house of worship was erected in 1875 at a cost of $2,000. The principal builders were Sedgwick Tomlinson, Asa Gossett, Adam Evans and Henry Fadely, assisted by the citizens. The society is now fioiirishing with a good membership. Present pastor, Rev. DeMundrum.

Union Church. - White Union church, located in the southeastern part of the township, was erected by the Christians (Hew Light) and the old school Baptists. It is also free for use by any other orthodox denomination. The house, 32 x40 feet in size, cost $1,000. Tlie first Trustees were Charles Cummins, Jacob Huffman, David T. Cory.

United Brethren. - The U. B. church in Middletown was organized by Rev. Cephas Day, in 1877, with twenty members. Soon after a building, formerly owned by the Methodist Protestant society, was purchased and remodeled into the present church. Jesse Rader was the first Class-leader. The membership is very small at present. Rev. Amos DeMundrum is the present pastor.

Masonic. - The Middletown Lodge, 'No. 271, F. & A. M., was chartered May 28, 1861. The following names appear on the charter: Geo. H. Eallingall, W. M. ; David Davis, S. W.; Seth

Mechanicshurg Lodge., No. 392, F. & A. M., was instituted under a dispensation July 11, 1866. The oflScers and charter members were: N. H. Elliott, W. M. ; Lewis G. Greenlee, S. W.; J. M. Thurston, J. W.; John Elliott, John H. Rent, Ross Wilkinson, Imla W. Cooper, George Hasty, Greenberry Farmer, John Swaim, Dr. Joseph Weeks and Thomas Hasty. The lodge was organized under a charter June 26, 1867. Its present membership is thirty-two; assets, $500. The present officers are: H. R. Elliott, W. M.; John Swaim, S. W.; Isaac Cooper, J. W.; J. H. Rent, Secretary; Wm. R. Miller, Treasurer.

Odd Fellows. - Fall Creek Lodge, No. 97, I. O. O. F., of Middletown, was chartered J uly 17, 1851. The charter members were : Moses H. Parker, Joel L. Murphey, Isaac Grove, Wm. W. Sheldon, Michael Swigart, John D. Fink, Wm. M. Waggoner. The lodge has a large and very well furnished hall. It was dedicated April 22, 1875. The membership is forty. Resources, $3,356. Present officers: J. C. Daniels, H.G.; A. S. Miller, Y. G. ; W. M, Moore, Treas. ; J. W. Farrell, Rec. Sec.; D. Jones, Perm. Sec.

Mechanicshurg Lodge., No. 327, I. O. O. F., was chartered May 19, 1869. The charter members were: 'Squire Oldinger, Thomas S. Beck, Wm. McCurdy, Daniel Rent, John H. Rent, Martin Pring and Job Ginn. There are about twelve members at present. The financial condition is good, the assets amounting to about $900. The present officers are: Job Ginn, N. G. ; Lafe Bell, Y. G. ; Daniel Rent, Sec.; John Patrick, Treas.

Grand Army. - George W. Rader Post, No. 119, G. A. R., was organized at Middletown Dec. 12, 1882, with twenty-eight charter members. The membership is now about eighty. The first Commander was Joseph A. Young. The present officers are David Jones, C.; Thomas Ginn, S. Y. C. ; John Mundell, J. Y. C. ; Abraham Hopper, Adjt. ; I. N. Chenoweth, Q. M.

Biographical

William Burner^ third son of Samuel and Barbara (Stover) Burner, was born June 20, 1813, in Augusta, Ya. He learned the trade of a carpenter in his native State, and in 1835 came to Henry County, Ind., where he worked at liis trade in Middletown about four years. He then rented and resided on a farm near Middletown three years, when he bought eighty acres of his present farm, which now contains 2Y6 acres of valuable land. He was married Sept. 6, 1840, to Sallie Dennet, born in Page County, Ya., in 1818, and daughter of Aaron and Mary (Windell) Dennet. Of their six children three are living - Eliza, wife of Dr. Earres, of Terre Haute, Ind.; John A., married Florence Prigg, and lives on a farm in Madison County, Ind.; Samuel D., at home; Joseph died at the age of ten years, and two died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Burner are members of the Christian church at Middletown. Politically Mr. Burner is a Bepublican.

Chauncey Hazelton Burr was born in Montgomery County (now Fulton), N. Y., March 11, 1806, a son of Bissell and Eunice (Robbins) Burr, his father a native of Hew England, born Dec. 14, 1771, and his mother of Hew York, born Jan. 29, 1774. His mother was a daughter of Thomas and Rosanna^Robbins, natives of Scotland. His grandfather, Hathaniel Burr, was a native of Connecticut, of the old Puritan stock. Bissell Burr removed with his family to Butler County, Ohio, in 1820, and in 1822 to Shelley County, Lnd. In August, 1836, his wife died, and he then returned to Ohio, and made his home with his son Alvjji till the latter's removal to Iowa, when he came to Henry County and lived with our subject. Alvin afterward came to Henry County, and he then lived with him till his death, in April, 1845. When seventeen years of age Chauncey Burr began to work at the tanner's trade, serving his apprenticeship with Zachariah Gappin, of Crawford sville, Ind. In 1830 he was married to Jane, daughter of Anthony and EleanorAWilliarns, of Dnion County, Ind . Two weeks after his marriage he located in Middletown, where he started the first tannery in the county, and continued the business till 1870. In 1839 Mr. Burr was elected Justice of the Peace, and served b}^ reelection till 1882. He has held other township and county offices, and has been administrator of several estates. He has had a family of ten children. Seven are living - Almira, wife of II. L. Moreland; Zerilda, wife of J. Y. Summers; Eunice B., wife of G. D.

Noffsinger; Chauncey S., Miles H., Lafayette J., and Walter B. One son died in the army, aged seventeen years. Politically Mr. Burr is a Eepublican.

Isaac N. Chenoweth, merchant, was born ~^ov. 10, 1819, in Pike County, Ohio, a son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Bristol) Chenoweth. Being left an orphan at the age of ten years, he lived with his grandfather, Reuben Bristol, till he was nineteen years old, when he went to Piketon, and for two years served as Deputy Sheriff, under Sheriff Colonel James Moore. He then drove cattle and hogs to the Eastern market for the next nine years, with the exception of two years, when he was with James Emmitt, of Waverly, Ohio, and less than a year he was in a dry-goods and clothing store of Moses Amburg, in Piketon and Jasper. April 1, 1850, Mr. Chenoweth left ISTew York with seven young men for the gold mines of California, arriving at San Francisco, June 28. He remained in California eleven years, and returned to Ohio in August, 1861. He was married in October, 1862, to Elizabeth C., daughter of Absalom and Mary Chenoweth. His wife died Sept. 19, 1879, and Aug. 1, 1880, he married Hester Sheets, of Middletown. Mr. Chenoweth rented the Bristol farm one year, when he moved to Middletown, where he bought property. In December, 1863, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Twenty-fourth Indiana Infantry ; was promoted to Orderly Sergeant, and received his discharge Sept. 1, 1865. He then returned to Henry County, and with his brother-in-law, A. W. C., opened the pioneer hardware store, in Middletown. He was then engaged in dealing in stock a few years, and in 1873 again embarked in the mercantile business, in which he still continues. Politically he is a Republican. His first vote was cast for W. H. Harrison, on the Whig ticket, in 1840.

James R. Connelly eldest son of Silas and Elizabeth Rhoda (Hotchkiss) Connell, was born Aug. 24, 1833, in Adams County, Ohio. In January, 1841, his parents moved to Fall Creek Township, Henry County, Ind., where his father bought forty acres of land. James R. remained at home, assisting his father with the farm duties, till he attained his majority. He was married Jan. 15, 1860, to Eliza J. Woodyard, a native of Hancock County, Ind., and daughter of Hoah and Mary Ann IShaffer^ Woodyard, who were natives of Virginia. They are the parents of one child - Tony, born in December, 1871. Mr. Connell owns 105 acres of well-improved land on the Middletown and Mechanicsburg pike.

He was Township Assessor one year, and also served as Justice of the Peace and Notary Public. He is a Republican in politics. His father died in January, 1879, and his mother resides on our subject's farm near his home, aged seventy years.

Charles Cummins^ eldest son of James and Mary Ann (Riley) Cummins, was born Sept. 18, 1839, in Fall Creek Township. He has made farming his principal occupation through life, and at present owns 120 acres of excellent land near the village of Honey Creek. He was married Jan. 5, 1861, to Nancy C., daughter of Joseph and Rebecca (Warnock) Gossett, born Dec. 14, 1840. To them have been born nine children, all living - Nathan Riley, born Nov. 6, 1861, married Cordelia Hoffman, and lives in Howard County, Ind. ; Francis Marion, born Feb. 20, 1864; Mary Elizabeth, July 8, 1866; Rebecca Caroline, Jan. 11, 1869; William Henry, Dec. 18, 1871; Laura Alcinda, Dec. 17. 1873; George Lester, Feb. 21, 1876; Milton Edward, July 20, 1878, and Charles Loren, Oct. 17, 1880. Mr. and Mrs. Cummins are members of the New Light church, and are active Sabbath-school workers. In politics Mr. Cummins affiliates with the Democratic party.

Nathan Cummins^ second son of James and Mary Ann (Riley) Cummins, was born in Fall Creek Township, Henry Co., Ind., and when about two years of age his father died. He remained with his mother till April 15, 1873, when he was married to Mary J., daughter of Henry and Barbara Haas, of Madison County, Ind. Four children have been born to them - Martha Y., born March 7, 1874; Alta L., Feb. 26, 1876; James Clarence, March 4, 1878, and Banchy May, May 6, 1880. In 1877 Mr. Cummins rented his farm, and has since been actively engaged in business in Middletown, principally mercantile. Mrs. Cummins is a member of the United Brethren church, and is an active worker in the cause of temperance. Our subject's mother has made her home with him ever since his marriage. His father's parents lived with their son James many years, the father dying in 1849, at the age of seventy years, and the mother in 1865, aged seventy-seven years. After Nathan w'as married his Grandfather and Grandmother Riley resided with him some time, and died at his residence, the former Dec. 2, 1880, aged eighty-seven years, and the latter May 10, 1881, aged eighty-three years.

Overton Cummins was born Dec. 26, 1825, in Monroe County, W. Ya., and when six years old, moved with his parents, Woodson and Nancy (Ellison) Cummins, to Henry Count}', locat- ing near Middletown, on eighty acres of land entered by his father, who died in 1847. His mother died in 1876, in Kansas, at the home of her son-in-law, John Koland. Overton Cummins was married Hov. 26, 1848, to Eraelia Lindamood, daughter of Philip and Haney Lindamood, of Fall Creek Township. They have had seven children, five now living - Haney Jane, wife of Isaac Smith, a farmer near Beinent, 111.; Mary Ann, wife of S. D. Karicoft, farmer near Bement, 111; Walter L., married Belle Fink; Ida Alice and Laura Josephine living at home. Moses Emery died at the age of five years, and one child died in infancy. Mr. Cummins has a fine farm of 149^ acres, one and one-half miles northwest of Middletown. He and family are members of Fall Creek Christian church, and in politics he is a Republican.

John C. Daniels^ miller, postotfice Middletown, Ind., was born Sept. 6, 1850, in Wayne County, Ind. His early education was obtained in the schools of Alexandria, and subsequently he attended Fort Wayne College, Fort Wayne, Ind. He began working in a mill when ten years of age, and worked at intervals when not in school. Thus by the time he was twenty-one he had a practical knowledge of the business to which he had given his attention. In February, 1878, he moved from Alexandria to Middletown and took charge of the Middletown mills. He remodeled and refurnished the mill putting it in first-class order, and has a good trade, doing a general milling business. He also buys and ships grain. May 3, 1874, Mr. Daniels was married to Maggie Keefer, of Alexandria. They have two children - May and Ethel. Mr. Daniels is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and has filled all the chairs of the lodge. At present is Hoble Grand. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Nimrod R. Elliotts banker and dealer in general merchandise and farming, Mechanicsburg, Henry County, Ind., is a son of E. B..Elliott, of Scotch-English nationality, who was born in Horth Carolina in 1782, moved to Wayne County, Ind., June 20, 1829, traveling all the way in private conveyances, occupying two months in making the journey across the mountains and through the forests and thinly settled country with no macadamized roads or steam ferries to facilitate travel. It was a laborious trip. From Wayne County he removed to Henry County in September, 1833, and located two miles northwest of where Cadiz now stands. E. B. Elliott married Mrs. Eliza Hardee, in Horth Carolina, in

1810. They had seven children, four sons and three daughters. N. R. Elliott, the youngest of the family, was horn in Perquimans County, N. C., May 4, 1827, being buta little over two years old when they settled in Indiana. His parents were in limited circumstances; had a small tract of land with slight improvements. He was reared on a farm and endured many hardships and privations in early life. He soon developed strong force of character; was very industrious and of inquiring habits, high-minded and selfreliant. He manifested great anxiety for education, was very attentive in his studies at home, and when at school his highest ambition was to excel. His early training was in a district schoolhouse, built on the corner of his father's little farm, of round logs, with the floors of split slabs and seats, and desks of the same material; roof and ceiling made of clapboards; windows about sixteen feet long and one foot high, with split sticks for sash and greased paper for panes. It was the flrst school-house in Fall Creek or Harrison townships. Such was pioneer life then. Dukes (as he was familiarly called) soon mastered the common-school branches, and when only sixteen years old was examined and licensed to teach school, and in this calling he was very successful. With the small amount saved from his teaching school he was able to attend better schools and academies and improve in other branches of literature. He succeeded in obtaining a fair academic education. Proud and ambitious, he became dissatisfled with his success flnancially and determined to turn his attention to the carpenter's trade, and in this, as a builder and contractor, he made money rapidly, and saved all he could to foster a little pet hobby of his early life (merchandise), which was one of his themes by day and night. When quite a small boy he played store, talked of and dreamed store. In 1851 he commenced the general mercantile business in the town of Mechanicsburg, and has continued business there ever since, giving his personal attention a considerable portion of the time to that kind of trade. He has several times had an interest in the mercantile trade at other points. In 1872 he, with two other partners, organized a bank at Middletown, Ind., he being President and John H. Turhune, Cashier. In 1873 they moved to Anderson, Madison County, and assisted in the organization of the Madison County Bank, and Mr. Elliott was a Director and Yice-President of that bank. In 1882 he assisted in the organization of the Farmers' Bank at Middletown, and was elected President. Has been foremost in all of the public improvements in his part of the county. He married Jane H. Cooper, of Cadiz, Henry County, in 1850, and they had two children. The elder, a daughter, IdaF., is the wife of Prof. J. M. Thurston, of the Physio-Medical College at Indianapolis, of which Mr. Elliott is Treasurer; the younger, a son, E. L. Elliott, graduated from Ann Arbor Law College, Mich., and is now Cashier of the Farmers' Bank, Middletown, Ind, In 1870 Mr. Elliott took an active part in the organization of Henry, Madison and Delaware Agricultural Society, and was President of that association for eleven years, sparing neither money nor time in making it a success. He always takes an active interest in the development of the agricultural interest. He never belonged to any religious denomination, but in that as well as in all other matters has very positive convictions; is liberal and of pronounced Universal faith in the ultimate happiness of all mankind. In early life he became an earnest worker in the cause of temperance, and has been a member of nearly every order of temperance societies, but opposes prohibition by statutory enactments. He steadily refuses to rent or allow any of his premises to be used for the sale or manufacture of intoxicants of any kind. He is a very zealous Freemason; has been a member of that order for over a quarter of a century; is Master of his lodge, and attends his chapter and cornmandery meeting with decided interest, and is prompt in relief for charitable and social purposes. Politically he is an uncompromising Democrat of the strictest type, anti-slavery and free soil; was a strong supporter of S. A. Douglas in 1860, and in 1861 was foremost to denounce secession and rebellion, and favored the most vigorous policy for suppression; was active in assisting volunteers and to aid their families while absent on duty; he favored the payment of liberal county bounties for volunteers, and was always ready to head any subscription for the relief of soldiers and their families. He never had any official aspirations, but has often been honored by his party for various positions; was a delegate to the I^ational Democratic Convention at Cincinnati in 1880, and an Elector on the Democratic ticket in 1884.

Henry Fadely was born May 1, 1830, in Rockingham County, Ya., and in November, 1837, moved with his parents, John and Rebecca (Funk) Fadely, to Fall Creek Township, Henry Co., Ind., where his father bought eighty acres of land south of the. village of Honey Creek, now owned by our subject, and to which he has added from time to time till the homestead contains 135

13 1851, he was married to Elizabeth Ann Grossett, a native of Fall Creek Township, and daughter of Joseph and Rebecca (Warnock) Gossett, the latter living with Mr. Fadely in her eightyfourth year. They have had thirteen children - Joseph H., married and living on his father's farm, south of the homestead; Rebecca Alice, married George Evans and lives on the farm noith of Honey Creek; Michael Monroe, William, Walter, Haney, Ellen, Charles, Alexander, Adam, Dennis, and six who died in infancy. Mr. Fadely and wife belong to the United Brethren church. In politics he is a Republican, having affiliated with that party since its organization.

George R. Fleming, youngest son of Joseph and Sarah (Flem->^ ing) Fleming, was bom Jan. 7, 18J0, in Fall Creek Township/ Henry Co Ind. He was married Sept. 18, 1862, to Sarah Cnmmins, born in Fall Creek Township, Aug. 13, 1843, a daughter of James and Mary Ann (Riley) Cummins. To them have been born three children - Magnola A., born Oct. 16, 1865; Bertha E., Sept. 23, 1877, and James R., Hov. 8, 1881. Mr. Fleming has 135 acres of excellent land, a portion of it being the old homestead In politics Mr. Fleming is a Democrat. His wife is a member of the New Light church. His father was one ot the pioneers of Henry County and served as Justice of the Peace for many years. His death occurred about the year IJ^.

William B. tleining born June 23,1838, m Fall Cree ' Township, Henry Co., Ind., and is the eldest son of VV^iain and Sarah Fleming. He was married June 22, 1866, to Kancy, daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Harvey. They were the parents of five children - H. B., aged seventeen years; Ludoska, past ten years; Bertha Maud, six years, and Nellie Blanch, aged two jmars. Henry Coet died at the age of seven months. Mr. Fleming is engaged in agricultural pursuits and owns 240 acres of excellent land. In politics he affiliates with the Democratic party. ^

EezeUah Forrest, commonly called Ki, was born Oct. 17, 1838, in Mason County, Va., a son of J. W. and Luna E. (Fargo) torrest, bis father a native of Virginia, of Scotch descent, and lus mother of Vermont. They were married in 1835 and in 1847 moved to Indiana and settled in the wilderness ot the Indian Reserve in Madison County, where the mother died in 1872, and the father still lives. Jlis great-grandfather, James Forrest, was taken by a press gang and brought to America, under Cornwallis, to subdue the rebels in 1779. He and his sister were selling vegetables from a wagon in the streets of Edinburg, and his sister was left/ sitting in the wagon when he was taken away. He was surrendered at Yorktown in 1781, was married and remained in Virginia. His sons were Thomas and William. Thomas went southwest in 1816. William, the grandfather of our subject, died in Virginia in 1863. Hezekiah Forrest spent his boyhood in attending school and assisting his father when able to do so. He beca'me a cripple from white swelling at the age of fourteen years, and when eighteen had his right leg amputated near the hip. Wliile waiting for the doctors to get ready for the operation the silence and suspense became so oppressive that he called for his violin and played while they were finishing their preparations. When nineteen years of age he entered Franklin College, completing the preparatory freshman and sophomore years. He has made teaching his life work and has taught one year in Grant County, four years in Madison County, and nineteen years near Middletown, Henry County. He resides two miles southeast of the town on a farm which he is teaching his boys to cultivate. He was married Oct. 4, 1863, to Mary Jane EJlison. They have four children - Edwin, Una, Jessie and Lewis. In politics before the war Mr. Forrest was a Democrat, during the war a Republican, and since the war has been a Democrat.

Jacob Good was born April 30, 1829, in Botetourt County, Va., and when about one year old, his parents, Martin and Barbaraf Good, emigrated to Ohio, where his father leased a farm in Montgomery, for twelve years, but at the end of ten years he sold his lease and in 1840 moved to Delaware County, Ind., where he died a few months later. Jacob was then obliged to earn his own living, and secured a place in the family of John Shoemaker, where he remained over four years. At the age of sixteen years he went to Xenia, Ohio, to learn the blacksmith's trade, remaining with David Pottle three years, being paid $36 per year. He then worked as a journeyman one year when he opened a blacksmith shop in Peru, Ind , which he carried on two years. He then went to Delaware and worked in a shop one year, when he was engaged in the machine shop of Lawrence, Davis & Co., about four years. July 17, 1860, he moved to Middletown, Henry County, and opened his present blacksmith's shop, where he has carried on business twenty-three years. He was married in 1851 to Mary Ann

Morman, by whom he had two children, both deceased. His wife died in 1854, and in 1857 he married Cytha A. Reed. They were the parents of eight children, two of whom were deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Good are members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Middletown, and in politics Mr. Good is a Republican.

Robert Griffis^ M. D.^ of Middletown, Ind., is a native of Eaton, Preble Co., Ohio, born May 18, 1827. His parents were John and Catherine (Kull) Griffis, the former a native of Wales and the latter of Yirginia. He was reared and educated in his native State, finishing his literary course at Otterbein University, lYesterfield, Ohio. In 1850 he began the study of medicine and took two full courses of lectures at the Ohio Medical College, Cincinnati, graduating in March, 1853. He immediately located at Middletown, Ind., and is now one of the most esteemed and prominent physicians of the county, his practice extending to the extreme limits of this, and reaching into the adjoining counties. He is one of the oldest phyfficians in the county and his opinion is sought after by those younger in the profession. He has always been ready to assist young men in their studies and help them to get established in practice. Hr. Griffis was married in April, 1853, to Margaret Ingle, of Eaton, Ohio. They have had four children; three are living. The Doctor and his wife are members of the Christian church.

James Groenendyke was born in Fayette County, Ind., July 6, 1838, and at the age of five years came with his parents, Michael _ and Anna^Groenendyke, to Jefferson Township, Henry County, where his father purchased 160 acres of land. James remained at home till April 9, 1 862, when he married Mary J., daughter of Samuel D. and Anna Painter, of Fall Creek Township. To them have been born four children - Sarah Loureta, born in February, 1866, married James McMullen and has one son, Merta, aged nine months; Bertha G., born April 9, 1873, and two sons who died in infancy. Mr. Groenendyke owns a farm of 220 acres of fine land and his residence is one of the best in the township. In 1875 he erected the buildings, and commenced the manufacture of drain tile, and in 1879 attached steam-power, and in 1880 attached a saw-mill for the cutting of hard lumber. His works are known as Bell Creek Tile Factory. In 1882 he bought a half right of the United States in the ''Favorite" washing machine, and in 1883 he attached machinery for manufacturing the same. The machine is one of the best made and its merits have been tested by some hundreds of the best families in this vicinity. He and his wife are members of the United Brethren church at Forest Hill, and in politics he is a Republican.

Joh?i Hedrick was born in Rockingham County, Ya., March 31, 1822, a son of Charles and Margaret (Pence) Hedrick, natives of Virginia. His parents were married in their native State, and in 1824 moved to Preble County, Ohio, remaining there till 1840, when they came to Henry County, Ind., and settled on a farm in Fall Creek, where the father died in 1856. The mother afterward went to Missouri to live with a daughter, and died there in 1868. Of their seven children but three are living. John Hedrick has always followed agricultural pursuits, and although a poor man when he started in life, has now a large property. He is a shrewd business man, and his investments have generally been advantageous. He owns a tine farm of 420 acres, a part of it the old homestead, and considerable property in Middletown. Mr. Hedrick was married in 1843 to Margaret, daughter of John and Margare^Hart, pioneers of Henry County. They have had eight children; but two are living - John W. and Sarah C. (vvife of J. L. Saunders). Politically Mr. Hedrick was originally a Whig, but now affiliates with the Democratic part}^

Jacob Huff born in Rockingham County, Ya., April 22, 1811, and remained till Dec. 30, 1834, when he was married to Phoebe Ann Scothoran. In 1836 he came to Henry County, Ind., locating on a farm of eighty acres in Fall Creek Township, which he had previously purchased. He now owns over 700 acres of land, over 500 acres being in Henry County, 160 acres in Delaware County, and fifty-eight acres in Madison County, Ind. His wife died in 1864, and in 1867 he was again married to Mrs. Permelia Meeker. They are at present making their home in Middletown, aged respectively seventy-two and seventy-four years. Mrs. Huff has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal church for the past fifty years. In politics Mr. Huff has always affiliated with the Democratic party. He had eleven children by his first wife, of whom six are deceased. Those living are - Joseph, Sarah Catherine, Mary Ann, Lucinda and Elizabeth, all married.

Asa S. Huston^ farmer, postoffice Mechanicsburg, Ind., 'was born in Preble County, Ohio, March 1, 1819, a son of Samuel and Sarah (Werts) Huston, natives of Pennsylvania, his father born in 1792, and his .mother in 1797. His father was a soldier of the war of 1812. He was married to Sarah Werts in Preble

History Of Henry Count T.

County, Ohio, Dec. 5, 1816, and in 1834 they moved to Madison County, Ind., and to Henry County in 1873, where he died Feb. 28, 1876. Samuel Huston was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church sixty years, and held many responsible positions in the church. He was for several years an exhorter, and was a liberal contributor toward the establishment of the church in Madison and Henry counties. His wife is still a resident of the county. Asa Huston spent his early life in common with other pioneer boys. His opportunities for attending school were limited, merely learning to read. He has had an ambition for learning and by reading in his leisure hours has acquired a knowledge of religion, politics and all questions of the day in advance of many whose advantages exceeded his. He has been a member of the Methodist church forty-six years, and a minister of the church since 1858. He was ordained deacon in . He is a member of the Independent Order of Oddfellows, and has filled different chairs in his lodge. In politics Mr. Huston was formerly a Whig, but since the party's organization has been an uncompromising Kepublican. He was^ married Sept. 10, 1840, to Lenorah, daughter of Moses Wilhoit,"^!! early settler of Henry County. They have had six children - William, Haney, Samuel, Anthony, Mary, Louisa. William and Louisa are deceased. The former was a soldier in the war of the Rebellion, and died while in the service, in 1863. With the exception of three years spent in Pendleton, Madison Co., Ind., Mr. Huston has lived on his present farm since 1844. At the time of his settlement it was wild, uncultivated land, but he has made of it one of the finest farms in the county. His early experience was similar to all pioneers who were in limited circumstances, but he has persevered and accumulated property, and is now one of the representative men of the county.

John Hayes James^ M. D., was born in Yorktown, Delaware Co., Ind., Oct. 17, 1851, a son of Jehu and Mary (Hayes) James, his father a native of Greensboro, Henry County, born June 24, 1829, and his mother of Chester County, Pa. After their marriage his parents settled in Delaware County, and two years later moved to Madison County. John H. was the eldest of eight children, five of whom are living. He received a common school education, and when twenty years of age began teaching. He taught seven winters and worked on the farm and attended school in the summer. He then began the study of medicine with Drs. Huston & Davidson, of Pendleton, and afterward entered the Physio-Medi- cal College at Indianapolis, graduating in 1881. He located at Carmel , Ind., where for two years he was associated with Dr. Carey. In the spring of 1884: he moved to Middletown, and although a resident so short a time has gained the confidence of the people and is building up a good practice. Dr. James was married in 1881 to Mary, daughter of James Leeson, of Wayne County. The Doctor is a member of the First District Physio-Medical Society, and also of the Alumni of the Physio-Medical College, of Indiana.

William Henry Keesling^ merchant, Mechanicsburg, Henry Co., Ind., is a son of William and Eliza Ann (Minnick) Keesling, of Fall Creek Township, residing a half mile east of Mechanicsburg. Both are of German descent. His father was born near the present site of Hew Paris, Preble Co., Ohio, Jan. 1, 1826. His mother was born in Bockingharn County, Ya., June 23, 1827, a daughter of Michael and Lydia Minnick. They were married in Fall Creek Township, Dec. 9, 184:7, and are the parents of seven children, six of whom are living. Our subject's grandfather, John Keesling, came to this county about 1828 or 1829, and entered a quarter section of land a quarter of a mile west of Mechanicsburg, where he lived till his death in 1864:. William H. Keesling was born a mile and a quarter north of Mechanicsburg, Feb. 17, 184:9, and re sided on the farm with his father till twenty-one years of age, working on the farm in the summer and attending the district school in the winter. Having from boyhood had the ambition to engage in the mercantile business, when he became of age he bent his energies toward the accomplishment of his early hopes, and Sept. 4, 1871, embarked in the grocery and patent-medicine business in Mechanicsburg, which he has since conducted successfully, receiving a liberal patronage from the town and surrounding country. Oct. 15, 1870, W. H. Keesling was married to Sarah J. Cooper, a daughter of John P. Cooper (deceased). She died June 20, 1881, leaving two children - India Pearl, born Sept. 13, 1872, and Cecil Ray, born Feb. 9, 1878. Feb. 18, 1883, W. H. Keesling married Han J. Miller, whose parents are also deceased. Politically W. H. Keesling has always been a Republican.

Enos Lindamood^ eldest son of Philip and Mary (Painter) Lindamood, was born Dec. 15, 1829, in Shenandoah County, Ya. His father moved to Delaware County, Ind., about 1838, where he bought eighty acres, and about 1840 purchased 105 acres in Fall Creek Township, Henry County, where he moved his family. He added thirty-seven acres, and at the time of his death, in 1859, owned 142 acres in Henry County and eighty acres in Delaware County. Enos remained at home till he was thirty years old, when he married Elizabeth M., daughter of Jacob P. and Hannah Miller. They have had three children - Mary Alice (who died when about three months old), Amanda Flora and Isadora Ann. Mrs. Lindamood is a member of the Lutheran church. Mr. Lindamood has followed farming through life, and now owns eighty acres of land about one mile east of Middletown. In politics he is a Democrat.

Andreio S. Miller^ druggist, Middletown, Ind., was born in Rockbridge County, Ya., Dec. 18, 1856, a son of Jacob G. and Hannah (Bushang) Miller. In 1857 his parents moved to Henry County, Ind.," and settled in Fall Creek Township, where his father died October, 1867, and his mother is still living. They had a family of seven children; six are living. Andrew S. received his elementary education in the public schools and subsequently attended the Hormal School at Lebanon, Ohio. After leaving school he clerked in the grocery store of I. N. Chenoweth a year and then went into the drug store of J. H. & F. P. Miller. A year later he returned to the farm and remained eighteen months, when he was employed by C. P. Albright and remained with him three years. He then bought the store in company with his brother, F. P. Miller, the firm name being Miller Brothers. The}' carry a full line of drugs, medicines, oils, paints and druggists' sundries, and are doing a successful business, having a constantly increasing trade. Mr. Miller is one of the most promising young men of the township and has served in the capacity of Treasurer two years and Trustee two terms. He has also been Treasurer of the Henry, Madison and Delaware Agricultural Society since 1882. He is a member of Middletown Lodge, No. 97, I. O. O. F. He was married in 1881 to Jennie , daughter of John K. and Ellen Moore, of Middletown.

Jacob P. Miller^ son of Philip and Catherine (Painter) Miller, was born June 12, 1811, in Rockingham County, Ya. He was married in Shenandoah County, Ya., Dec. 1, 1829, to Hannah Coffman, daughter of David and Susannah (Good) Coffman. They were the parents of nine children, three sons and two daughters being deceased. Those living are - David, who is married and living on a farm in Fall Creek Township; Elizabeth, wife of Enos Lindamood; Sarah, wife of John M. Shoemaker; and Martha, wife of Joseph P. Sharp, of Madison Township. In 1831 Mr. Miller moved his family to Clark County, Oliio, and in 1834 came to

Henry County, Ind., where he bought eighty acres of land about two miles east of Middletown. He entered 148 acres southeast of his residence and in the fall of 1835 entered 160 acres more adjoining the 148 acres. He has added to his purchases until he now owns 645 acres in Henry County, 235 acres in Madison County, Ind., and 240 in Wayne County, III., making a total of 1,120 acres. Mrs. Miller died Feb. 28, 1879, aged sixty-seven years. She was a member of the German Baptist church since 1834. Mr. Miller belongs to the same church having joined the same day as his wife in 1834. In politics Mr. Miller has been a life-long Hepublican. His father's death occurred in Hockingham County, Ya., in 1815, and his mother died in Fall Creek Township, Henry County, Jan. 15, 1841.

William R. Miller^ third son of Andrew and Elizabeth (SnvdeiO . Miller, was born in Clermont County, Ohio, April 23, 1822. His mother died in 1834, after which he was engaged with different farmers until he was about sixteen years of age, when he went to Felicity, Ohio, and learned the chair-maker's trade with Jeremiah Smith. At the end of eighteen months he became engaged on a flatboat, making three trips to Hew Orleans. April 7, 1842, he was married to Forlenia E. Lanham, daughter of William and Catherine (Sargent) Lanham. Eight children have been born to them - John W., enlisted as a private in thej Sixty-ninth Indiana Infantry and died in the army May 9, 1863; /Vlary Catherine, wife of Dr.' M. W. Ricks, of Muncie, Ind.; Benjamin P., died at the age of nine years; Elizabeth S., wife of William Brookshire, residents of Harrison Township, Henry County; the fifth child, a daughter, died in infancy; Sarah Jane, lives with her parents; Emma E., died in 1854, aged about two years; Luther O., married Florence Wood, and is in partnership with his father, the firm name being William R. Miller & Son. After his marriage Mr. Miller engaged in the manufacture of chairs in Adams Township, at which he continued eleven years, during which time he purchased about forty acres of land in the same township. In 1853 he moved to his farm remaining there six years and in 1859 sold his property in Madison County and bought land in Mechanicsburg, Henry County, where he farmed four years. He then built a large frame building where he has since carried on the business of chair-making and undertaking. He and his wife have been members of the Methodist Episcopal church about forty years. Politically Mr. Miller has been a Republican but in 1884 he was a delegate to the Prohibition Convention at Indianapolis, Ind,

Abraham Painter^ second son of Absalom and Sarah (Thompson) Painter, was born Dec. 9, 1818, in Pockingham County, Ya. In the fall of 1832 Absalom Painter moved to Fall Creek Township, Henry County, Ind., where he purchased 320 acres of uncultivated land which he, with the help of his sons, cleared and improved. He lived to see his children settled in life, and died at the ao^e of seventy-six years. His wife survived him several years, living to the age of over eighty years. Our subject has followed farming through life, and through industry and good management now owns 186 acres of valuable land in this township, and eighty-eight acres in Jefferson Township. He was married Dec. 12, 1841, to llhoda, daughter of Anthony and Louisa (AkeF) Sanders. To them have been born ten children - Delilah Jane (married), John James, William Francis (married), Sarah Catherine (married), Mary Elizabeth (married), Absalom David, Lydia Margaret (deceased), Louisa Ellen (married), Martha Lincoln and George Ellsworth. They have fourteen grandchildren living and five deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Painter are members of the Christian church and in politics he affiliates with the Pepublican party.

David M. Painter^ a son of Samuel D. and Anna Painter, was born in Henry Count}^, Ind., Nov. 20, 1844. He was reared a farmer and has always followed that vocation. He was married in 1867 to Rosanna Johnston, a native of Delaware County, Ind., born December, 1843, a daughter of I and Alfred J. Mrs. Painter is a member of the Christian church. Mr. Painter is a quiet unassuming man, devoting himself to his home and family. He takes great interest in all matters tending toward the advancement of anything of public benefit. He enlisted in 1863 in Company E, Ninth Indiana Cavalry, and served till the close of the war. In 1870 he moved to Kansas and entered a quarter-section of land in Howard, now Chautauqua County, and remained there four years. He then returned to Henry County' and still resides on his farm of 100 acres which he has improved and where he is surrounded with all the comforts of life.

David T. Painter was born in Rockingham County, Ya., April 15, 1831, and is the third son of Absalom and Sarah (Thompson) Painter. He came to Henry County, Ind., with his parents in the fall of 1832 and experienced the hardships of pioneer life. He has followed agricultural pursuits during his life, and at present owns a good farm of 213 acres in Fall Creek Township. He was married to Miss Gillia Ann, daughter of Jacob and Amanda Shoemaker, of Delaware County, Ind. They have three children - John Perry Morton, Otto Warden and Elanora, married to Wm. Prigg, a farmer near Mechanicsburg, and has two children - Lowell and Grace. In politics Mr. Painter has always voted the Republican ticket.

Samuel D. Painter^ son of Absalom and Sarah Painter, was born in Rockingham County, Ya., Oct. 6, 1816. He was reared and educated in his native county, and in his early life engaged in farming and cabinet-making. In 1831 he came to Henry County, Ind., and located in Fall Creek Township, where he was engaged in farming till his death, July 12, 1876. He was successful in his business transactions, and a pure, upright man. He was an active member and liberal supporter of the United Brethren church. He was a public-spirited man and an earnest advocate of all matters of benefit to the community. He served his county as Commissioner and his township as Trustee. He was married May 17, 1835, to Anna R^er, a native of Rockingham County, Ya., born May IT, 1819. She came to Indiana in 1835 with her Uncle Jesse Rader. She united with the United Brethren church in 1839 and remained an active worker till her death, Hov. 22, 1879. She was a devoted wife and mother. Although kind and gentle, she was firm with her children -and was beloved and revered by them. There were eight children born to Mr. and Mrs. Painter - John R., deceased; Mary J.,wife of James Groenendyke; David M.; Sanford M.; Julia A., wife of Hensel Crittenborgen; Amanda, wife of Clinton Hess; Almeda and Horace G. All are residents of Henry County, the youngest two residing on the old homestead. It is a beautiful home of 138 acres, situated in the northeastern part of Fall Creek Township. Horace G. is an energetic, industrious man, and a thrifty farmer. He is one of Henry County's most prominent and respected citizens. Politically he is a Republican.

Sanford M. Painter was born Feb. 28, 1847, in Fall Creek Township, Henry Co., Ind., third son of Samuel D. and Ann (Rader) Painter, and a grandson of Absalom Painter, one of Henry County's pioneers. His father died in 1877, and his mother's death occurred in 1879. He was married Aug. 14, 1869, to Eva A. Condover, a daughter of John Condover, who was born in Germany and came to America when she was seven years of. age. To this union one son has been born who died in infancy. Mr. Painter owns a fine farm of 160 acres, three miles northeast ol

Mrs, Catherine Pieicering was born in Pike County, Ohio, ^ov. 30, 1826, a daughter of Benjamin G. and Mary Bristol. In 1830 she came with her parents to Henry County, Ind., where her father entered a tract of uncultivated land, one mile west of Middletown, where Mrs. Pickering still lives in a substantial brick residence built by her father in 1846, the farm consisting of ninety-six acres of valuable land. The Bristol family were among the first settlers of this part of Henry County. Mr. Bristol died Jan. 3, 1869, and his widow, Dec. 19, 18Y8. Our subject was married June 28, 1846, to Jordan Pickering, who died Jan. 2, 1868. To them were born three children - Boring A., married Hora Cummins and lives in Sumner County, Kas. ; Mary Alice and Charles J. living at home, the latter teaching the school (at this writing, 1883) in this district. Mrs. Pickering belongs to the Methodist church. Her parents were also members of the same denomination for many years. Mr. Pickering was a member of the Friends' church.

Charles Riley was born Feb. 23, 1817, in Delaware, eldest son of IS'athan and Sarah (Stejg'art) Riley. His parents, with a family of seven children, came to Fall Creek Township from Guernsey County, Ohio, in a wagon in 1830, and Hathan Riley purchased 152 acres near where the village of Middletown now stands. Our subject was reared on a farm, and as well as a good worker, he became a fine hunter. The country was new and unsettled, and wild animals were numerous, affording an opportunity to become an adept in the art of shooting. Mr. Riley has killed about sixty deer, and at one time wounded a large bear near where he now lives. He was married Jan. 14, 1847, to Amelia, daughter ot Samuel and Hannah (Walker) Cunningham, of Fall Creek Township. They have had eight children - Margaret Elizabeth, wife of Richard Emswiller, of Fall Creek Township; William Henry, married Ann Keesling, and living in Dade County, Mo.; Nathan, married Senia Keesling and living in Fall Creek Township; Samuel J., married Allie Ellison, also living in Fall Creek Township; Sarah, widow of Quincy Keesling, living near Indianapolis; Francis G. and Sanford L. (twins), and Charles Frederick. Soon after his marriage Mr. Riley moved on an eighty-acre farm which he had previously purchased, and where they still reside, and by good management and industry he now has nearly 400 acres of fine land. Mr. Rile_y bad typhoid feversome twenty-six years ago, since which he has had an affliction in his leg and is quite an invalid. He is one of the few surviving pioneers of Henry County, and in politics is a Democrat.

George W.Bodecap^ physician and surgeon, was born in Rockingham Co.,Ya., March 4, 1855, the eighth of thirteen children of Martin and Susana (Sanger) Rodecap. In 1855 his parents moved to Delaware Co., Ind., and bought a farm of 320 acres on the line of Henry County, where they still live. His father is also a minister in the German Baptist church. George W. remained at home till fourteen years of age and then went West and traveled over several of the States and Territories. On his return home he entered the Middletown school. When about seventeen years old he began teaching school and taught two winters. He then went to Valparaiso, Ind., and graduated in 1875. He taught a country school the following winter, and in the spring of 1876 took charge of the grammar department of the Middletown school, retaining the position till 1880, when he was appointed Principal of the schools. In the meantime he devoted his spare time to the study of medicine, and in 1881 entered the medical department of Ann Arbor University. He took two courses of lectures and then returned to Middletown and began his practice. He was married in 1877 to Anna E., daughter of T. C. and Mary Swain. They have had three children - Ina, Cecil and Nellie; the eldest two are deceased.

Christopher C. Sanders is a native of Henry County. He was born Dec. 24, 1845, a son of Anthony and Louisa (Akers) S_andej:s,y natives of Virginia. His parents moved to Henry County in 1831 and settled on a farm near Middletown, where they spent the remainder of their lives. They were the parents of twelve children, eight sons and four daughters; but six are living. Christopher C. Sanders was married in 1879 to Mattie Mower, daughter of tioseph Mower, of Henry County. They have one son - Clyde J. Mr. Sanders is a member of Middletown Lodge, No. 97,

Anderson Showalter^ third son of Abraham and Frances Showalter, was born April 13, 1817, in Franklin County, Va., and at the age of eleven years moved with his parents to Jackson Township, Wayne County, Ind. In 1834 he came to Fall Creek Township, Henry County, and Jan. 16, 1840, was married to Tamor, daugliter of Nathan and Sarah I^ley, early pioneer settlers of this township.

They are the parents of four children, three daughters and one son - Martha J., wife of James T. Abshire, living on a farm in Jefferson Township; Caroline, wife of W. F. Sanders; Eliza, wife of P. L. Harry, a farmer in Jefferson Township, and Stephen D., the youngest and only son, married Eva Harvey, daughter of Benjamin -^Harvey, of Honey Creek, and is clerking for his father. After his marriage Wm. Showalter followed farming for twelve years, when he engaged in the mercantile business at Middletown, three years. He then moved to Independence, Grant Co., Ind., and followed the same business for eleven years, after which he returned to Henry County and sold goods at Cadiz three years. He then turned his attention to farming altogether, till February, 1878, when he sold his farm and moved to Honey Creek and opened two stores, in one of which he sells hardware, groceries, paints and oils, and in the other, dry-goods, boots and shoes, ready-made clothing, hats, caps, etc. His son-in-law, W. F. Sanders, is associated with him in his present business, and is a young man of good business qualifications.

David Monroe StricMer was born in Rockingham County, Ya., Dec. 3, 1828, a son of David and Polly A. (Crim) Strickler, and a grandson of David Strickler, a native of Page County, Ya., who died of camp fever in 1815, while serving in the war. In 1831: our subject's parents moved to Delaware County, Ind., where they died. He remained with his parents till 1851, and then came to Henry County and bought some land, four miles south of Middletown. He had but little capital, but by being industrious and economical, assisted by his estimable wife, who has stood by him in every trial, he has been successful. He owns 300 acres of farming land, and a beautiful residence in Middletown. He was married in 1850 to Julia A., daughter of Wyatt and Elizabeth Thompson, natives of Montgomery County, Ya., the father born Dec. 31, 1805, and the mother, Jan. 8, 1806. Mr. and Mrs. Strickler have had five children - Elizabeth T., Elnora J., Sophia A., Wyatt D. and Otis P. The daughters are deceased. Mr. Strickler is a member of Middletown Lodge, No. 271, F. & A. M.

Simon H. Summers was born in Highland County, Ohio, May 23, 1832, a son of William and Polly (Richardson) Summers, his father a native of Yirginia, and his mother of North Carolina. His grandfather, William Summers, came from Germany with a colony, and located in Virginia, where he married Nancy Fenner, also a native of Germany, and afterward moved to Highland County,

Ohio, where his wife died. After the death of his wife he moved to Delaware County, Ind., and died there in September, 1848. For several years prior to his death he was blind, caused by falling out of a wagon and injuring the back of his head. He was a very^ reticent man, and niggardly. He accumulated a large property, and after his death was found about a bushel of gold and silver coin which he had hid away. His tax receipts and business papers,\ some of which are over 100 years old, are in the possession of our/ subject. Although a strictly moral man, he never attached himself to any church. He built the first frame house in Delaware County. The maternal grandfather of our subject, John Richardson, was a native of England, but came to America when a child and grew to ' manhood in the State of Horth Carolina, and then married Polly j Terrell. From North Carolina they moved to Yirginia, and from there to Ohio, where he died June 6, 1840, aged seventy-nine years, and she, Oct. 31, 1844, aged eighty-three years. They were members of the Society of Friends. But one of their seven children is living - John Richardson, now eighty-eight years old. In his young days he was a great hunter, and has killed hundreds of deer. Our subject's parents moved to Delaware County, Ind., and in\ 1868 to Middletown, where his mother died April 19, 1869, and his) father, December, 1870. S. H. Summers was reared and educated in Delaware County, remaining there until 1868, when he moved to Middletown, and for three years engaged in the mercantile business. He then turned his attention to buying and selling grain and hogs, and became one of the largest dealers in the county, continuing the business until 1874. Since then he has lived a more quiet life, merely attending to his property. Mr. Summers has been a prominent, influential man in the county. He has been Superintendent of the Henry, Madison and Delaware Counties Agricultural Fairs for eleven years, and under his management they have always been carried on successfully. He was married in April, 1851, to Louisa Sanders, of Henry County, Ind. They have four children - Sarah A., wife of Albert J. Griffis; Nettie, wife of F. L. Thornburg; William L. and Osa Ray.

Chester B. Swain^ son of Thomas and Mary (Keesling) Swain? was born in Fall Creek Township, Henry Co., Ind., March 2, 1849. He remained with his parents till reaching manhood, and was married Jan. 22, 1870, to Mary A., daughter of John and Melvina Fade, who came to Henry County from Yirginia at an early date. They are the parents of three children - Zanfretta, born Feb. 25,

1871; Zelotes, March 4, 1876, and Thomas Benton, March 21, 1879. Mr. Swain and wife are members of the White Chapel Christian Church, situated about two miles west of Mechanicsbur^; and in politics Mr. Swain is a Republican. He has forty-four acres of excellent land with good improvements, adjoining Mechanicsbnrg. His father came to Henry County, Ind., from Tennessee about 1834 with his parents, John and Ann Swain, and settled on a farm near where Mechanicsburg now stands.

Frank L. Thornburg^ M. D.^ was born in Kew Castle, Ind., Sept. 16, 1856, a son of Hiram and Lydia J. Thornburg. He obtained a common-school education, and then clerked in a grocery store two years. He then was employed as clerk in the postoffice eighteen months, after which he entered the Miami Commercial College, Dayton, Ohio, and took a full course. After his return to New Castle, he began the study of medicine with Dr. Rea, and subsequently attended lectures at the Ohio Medical College, Cincinnati, graduating in the class of 1877-'78. In March, 1878, he located at Middletown, and now has a good practice, having gained the esteem of his brother practitioners, as well as the confidence of the community. He was married in 1880 to Nettie, daughter of Simon H. Summers, of Middletown. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Dr. Thornburg is a member of Fall Creek Lodge, No. 97, I. O. O. E.

Captain Frederick lykle^ one of the prominent business men of Middletown, Ind., is a native of Preble County, Ohio, born June 7, 1825. He is a son of John and Christena Tykle, natives of Germany, who came to the United States before their marriage. His father died in Preble County, Ohio. His mother afterward went to Illinois to live with her daughter, and died there. Their family consisted of three children, two sons and a daughter; all are living. When eighteen years of age Frederick went to Eaton, the county seat of Preble County, and seiwed an apprenticeship at the cabinet maker's trade. At the outbreak of the Mexican war he enlisted as a private in the Fourth United States Infantry, and was sent to Pueblo, Mexico, where he joined General Scott's army. From there they went to the City of Mexico, and afterward participated in the battles of Churubusco, the storming of Molino Del Rey and Chapultepec, and the siege of Mexico. In June,1848, he returned to Eaton, Ohio, and resumed work at his trade. In the spring ot 1849 he went to Santa Fe, New Mexico, and remained until fall. He was married in 1851 to Ann Grimes, of Butler County, Ohio, and soon after settled in Fairhaven, Ohio, and began working on his own account. In the spring of 1855 he moved to Middletown, Henry Co., Ind., where, for a short time, he was engaged in the dry goods business. Selling out, he again worked at his trade till tlie outbreak of the Hebellion, where he raised a company for the Eighth Indiana Hegiment (three months). He* served three months and a half, and participated in the battle of Rich Mountainx\fter his discharge he returned home and raised another company, of which he was elected Captain. After serving three months he resigned and returned home, where he has worked at his trade and engaged in the real estate business. Although commencing on a small capital he has been successful, and now owns a handsome two-story frame residence and a fine brick business block. He has been an enterprising public-spirited citizen and infiuential in both social and business circles. * He was a member of the first Town Board, and has since served a number of terms. In 1868 he was elected Appraiser of Henry County. He is a member of Fall Creek Lodge, No. 97; the Grand Lodge of Indiana, I. O. O. F., and Geo. W. Rader Post, No. 119, G. A. R. Mr. Tykle has two children - Laura C., wife of J. H. Terhnne, of Anderson, Ind., and George E., a prominent merchant of the same town.

Cyrus Yanmatre^ fifth son of David and Maria Yanrnatre, was born in Salem Township, Delaware Co., Ind., Feb. 19, 1839. At the age of twelve he met with a serious accident by being caught under a tree that he was chopping, which lodged, and jumped back and caught his ankle, breaking the bone just above the joint, and cutting his leg half off. In the course of two years it healed up, but has always given him more or less trouble ever since. He remained at home until he was twenty-two years of age, and experienced many of the hardships of pioneer life. At this time the war broke out, and he volunteered with Captain Tykle, in the Eighth Indiana Infantry, for three months. Went to West Virginia; participated in the battle of Rich Mountain; then returned to Indianapolis; re-enlisted for three years in same regiment; was made a Duty Sergeant; went to Missouri under Fremont; was in the battle of Sugar Creek, Ark., and Pea Ridge, Ark.; was promoted to First Sergeant in 1862; participated in the battles of Port Gibson, Miss., Champion Hills, Miss., Big Black River, Miss., Vicksburg, Miss., Mustang Island, Tex., Fort Esperanza, Tex., Opequan, W. Va., Winchester, Va., Fisher's Hill, Va., New Market, Va., Cedar Creek, Va. He veteranized February, 1864; was commissioned as First Lieutenant. He received a wound through his right arm May 22, 1863, while charging the rebel works at Micksbnrg; also at Cedar Creek, Ya., Oct. 19, 1864, through the neck, ball entering at the heel of left jaw, and passing out between the leaders on back of neck just in the lower edge of hair. This wound rendering him unfit for the service, he resigned Dec. 4, 1864, and returned home. He was in the service three years and seven months. In the spring of 1865 he engaged in farming again with his father. During same year he purchased a farm of ninety-seven acres, but still remained wdth his father till 1867. He was married Oct. 23, 1867, to Sarah C., second daughter of Samuel and Mary Sayford, residents of Delaware County. She was born in lioanoke County, Ya., Feb. 13, 1840, and came to Delaware County with her parents about 1848. Mr. and Mrs. Yanmatre have two children - Cassius Emmett, born Hov. 13, 1868, and Augustus Abner, born Dec. 13, 1870. They. moved to Henry County, Nov. 18, 1867, and settled on the farm previously purchased by Mr. Yanmatre, where they still reside. In 1870 he built a barn, and bought sixty-eight acres of land from Samuel D. Painter, joining on the west to his first purchase, making together 165 acres. He also owns 140 acres in Salem Township, Delaware County. In 1876 he was elected County Commissioner, holding that office six years by re-election. In 1877 he erected his beautiful brick residence. He is a member of the Methodist Protestant church, and his wife belongs to the Lutheran denomination. His political affiliations are with the Kepublican party. He cast his first presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln.

Henry Van Matre was born in Fayette County, Ind., May 12, 1815, a son of John and Margaret Yan Matre, his father a native of Pennsylvania, and his mother of Kentucky. They were married in Indiana in 1814, and settled in Fayette County. In 1827 tlie}^ moved to Delaware County, where they spent the rest of their days. Tiiey liad a family of seven children, four sons and three daughters. Henry, the eldest, spent his early life in assisting his father, and after attaining his majority began farming for himself. He moved to Middletown in 1860, and has since lived rather retired, although he has given some attention to his farms, owning three, two in Delaware and one in Henry County, his landed estate being 500 acres. In 1879 he was stricken with paralysis on the left side and has never fully recovered. Mr. Yan Matre was married in 1844, to Elizabeth, daughter of Lewis and Diana Summers. But three of their five children are living - Margaret, wife of

Joseph Weeks^ M. Z>., a physio-medical physician, moved from Huntsville, Madison County, to Mechanicsbur^, Henry County, in 1856. His parents, Joseph and Susanna (Earll) Weeks, were of English descent. They were married Oct. 10, 1804, in Hew York, where they resided until 1836. In that year they moved West, and settled on a farm near Dublin, Wayne Co., Ind. The mother died in a few days after reaching their Western home. The father lived until 1851. Finding there were objections to the Wayne County farm, they bought a farm near Pendleton, Madison County, and removed to it the same year, 1836. Their son, Joseph Weeks, the subject of this sketch, was born Sept. IT, 1820, in Orange County, JY Y. He received only a common-school education. In 1859 he graduited from the Physio-Medical College of Ohio. He was married in Fall Creek Township, Henry County, to Susari^ Swain, daughter of John Ann^jSwain, Nov. 22, 1849. They lived in Huntsville from the time of their marriage until 1856, when they moved to Meehan icsburg. They are the parents of three daughters. Dr. Weeks is a member of the Society of Friends. In politics he is a staunch Republican.

James H. Welsh^ M. D.^ is a native of Butler County, Ohio, born Feb. 23, 1838, a son of Joseph and Mary (Allen) Welsh. His parents were natives of Franklin Countj^, Pa., and removed in an early day to Ohio. They subsequently moved to Franklin County, Ind., where the mother died. The father afterward married again and moved to Union County, Ind. In 1881 his wife died, and in 1882 he married his third wife. He came to Henry County in 1882, and is now living in Liberty Township. Of a family of six children, but three are living. James H. was reared on a farm, but was given a good education, and when nineteen years of age began teaching school. He taught nineteen months, and in the spring of 1862 began the study of medicine in the office of his uncle. Dr. J. B. Welsh, of Eastern Ohio. In the fall of 1863 he entered Ohio Medical College, Cincinnati, and took one course of lectures. The next summer he practiced with Dr . Gilchrist, of Riley, Ohio, and the following fall returned to the college and took his second course, and graduated in March, 1865. He then went to Columbus, Ohio, and applied for a position in the army. He acted as Assistant Surgeon at Camp Chase, and was afterward appointed Assistant Surgeon of the One Hundred and Eighty-fifth Ohio Infantry. He remained with the regiment till mustered out in

October, 1865, and then came to Henry County, Ind., and located at Middletown, where he has built up a large practice. In 1882 he took a practitioner's course at Hush Medical College, Chicago, 111. The Doctor is a hard student, and is therefore a successful physician, standing at the head of the profession. As a counseling physician in extreme cases his services are frequently sought, his opinion being regarded with favor by his brother practitioners. Dr. Welsh was married in March, 1871, to Anna Dipboye, daughter of Joseph and Lucinda Dipboye. She is a lady of culture, and a member of one of the first families of the county. Dr. Welsh is a Director of the Farmers' Bank of Middletown. He has been a useful and influential man in his township, serving as School Trustee and Trustee of the Corporation in an able and satisfactory manner. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and the Grand Army of the Republic, and is at present Master of Middletown Lodge, No. 271.

Jacob Whisler^ a native of Rockbridge County, Ya., came to Indiana, in 1835, settling near Germantown, Wayne County. In December, 1836, he removed to Henry County, purchasing 185 acres in Fall Creek Township for $1,000, and later purchased an additional forty acres, where he followed agricultural pursuits the rest of his life. Aug. 25, 1831, he was married to Lucinda, daughter of Henry and Charlotte (Bennett) Mallory, of Botetourt County, Ya. Eight children were born to them - George W., William Bennett (who died at the age of eleven years), Mary Ann, Sarah J., Charlotte, Rufus (who died at two years of age), Josephus L., Frank Pearce. Mr. Whisler died Aug. 7, 1881, aged nearly seventy-two years. In politics he was a Democrat, and was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Whisler is still a member of the same church.

B. II. Wilhoit., farmer and stock-raiser, postoffice Cadiz, Ind., was born in Adams County, Ohio, May 16, 1826, a son of Moses ^ and Nancy (Douglas) Wilhoit. His parents were natives of Yirginia, both born in 1792, but moved to Bourbon County, Kv., in early life, where they were married in 1814. After their marriage they moved to Ohio, and in 1832 moved to Henry County, Ind., residing there the remainder of their lives. Of a family of nine children, six are living. Both parents were members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and their children were reared in the faith of that denomination. Our subject was but six years of age when his parents came to this county. His early life was spent in helping to clear the farm. He had no opportunity to attend school till fourteen years of age, and subsequent to that time liis advantages were limited. The desire for an education caused him to apply himself to study during his leisure hours, and he obtained a knowledge of all practical branches. He is well read and is posted on all topics of public interest. He was married Oct. 11, 1849, to Hannah Personett, a native of Hamilton County, Ohio, born Oct. 15, 1831, a daughter of Joseph and Hebecca Personett, her father a native of Hamilton County, Ohio, and her mother of Pennsylvania. Her parents came to Henry County, Ind., in 1838. After his marriage Mr. Wilhoit settled on a tract of heavily timbered land, which he cleared and improved, and now has one of the finest farms in the township. He has been industrious, and is now able to give up the heavier work to younger hands, and is living in the enjoyment of the fruits of his labor. In politics Mr. Wilhoit first voted for Franklin Pierce, and since then has voted the Republican ticket. He and his wife are members of the Christian church. To them have been born eight children - Elwood, Harriet, Elizabeth, Haney Jane, Rebecca, Reuben, Levina Alice, Feba Laura.

Thomas Wilhoit^ farmer and fine stock-breeder, postoflSce Middletown, Ind., was born in Adams County, Ohio, March 20, 1822, a son of Moses and Haney (Douglas) Wilhoit, natives of Yirginia, both born in 1Y92. They moved to Bourbon County, Ky., with their parents, and were there married in 1814. They subsequently moved to Ohio, and in 1832 came to Henry County, Ind., where the father died in 1867, and the mother in 1878. Six of a family of four sons and five daughters are living. Both parents were members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and reared their children in that faith. Our subject was ten years of age when his parents came to Henry County. His boyhood was passed in assisting his father on the farm, clearing, grubbing, splitting rails, plowing, etc. He attended the neighborhood school about three months in the year, but by studying at home with the assistance of his father, acquired a fair education. He owns the farm of 160 acres, entered by, his father in 1832, to which he has added 212 acres, making a fine farm of 372 acres. He began the breeding of fine stock in 1851, and is now at the head of that industry in the county. His cattle are second to none in the United States. This important position has been gained by constant and untiring application and a careful observance of every detail of the business. In politics Mr. Wilhoit has been an uncompromising Republican since the party's formation. He has been Township Trustee, and in 1848 was nominated County Commissioner. He has been a member of the Methodist church^ forty years, and an officer in the church ^ thirty years. He was married Feb. 22, 1844, to Mary Hi^s^on, of Madison County. They have had two children - Tabitha and Nimrod S. Their son was associated with his father in business, but died in 1877. His son, Charles C., resides with his grandparents, who purpose to train him. that he may be qualified to take his father's place in the stock business. Mr. Wilhoit has been a resident of Henry County fifty-two years, and from a wilderness has seen the country advance to civilization. He has been one of the principal actors in its progression, never being content to sit idly by and let others do what was his part of the great work.