Harmony Township

Harmony Township

Was organized August 14, 182 1, and derives its name from the peculiar class of people who settled it in 1814 - 15, and who styled themselves the "Harmonie Society," an account of which will be found under the sketch of New Harmony. In population and wealth it is second only to Black. Its inhabitants are intelligent, industrious and public spirited. There were 8,573 acres of land under cultivation in the township in 1880, and the yield of wheat and corn for that year aggregated 265,402 bushels, the average production being respectively, fifteen and thirty-five bushels per acre.

Source changes here: from History of Posey County, Indiana : from the Earliest Times to the Present, with Biographical Sketches, Reminiscences, Notes, Etc. : Together with an Extended History of the Northwest, the Indiana Territory, and the State of Indiana, by Goodspeed Publishing Co, published 1886; 13,474 words in this source stream.

Harmony Township

BENJAMIN M. BAILEY was born in Posey County, Ind., February 22, 1832; He is a son of John A. and Cynthia (Stallings) Bailey, and is of English descent. His father was born at Princeton, Ky., in 1806, and his mother in Posey County, Ind., in 1808. The subject of this sketch spent his boyhood on the farm, and in attendance at the common schools. In 1854 he went to California and worked in the mines one and a half years, on a farm the same length of time, and was then engaged in the stock business three years. In 1860 he returned to Indiana, and on the breaking out of the war enlisted in Company A, Ninetyfirst Indiana Volunteer Infantry for three years or during the war. He was present at the battles of Atlanta, Marietta, Pine Mountain, Nashville, and other places. He was wounded at Pine Mountain, and was honorably discharged, as orderly sergeant, in July, 1865. Since this time he has been engaged in farming. In 1871 he purchased his present farm, and now owns 220 acres of fine land well improved. Mr. Bailey is a self-made man, having risen from nothing to a comfortable competency. He is a man of superior judgment, was a good soldier, and is a leading citizen. He is a representative of one of the early pioneer families of the county, and is a Bepublican in politics. He was married December 28, 1865, to Miss Susan Stallings, daughter of "William and Mary A. Stallings. Mr. and Mrs. Bailey have three children: John W., born in 1867; William L., born in 1869, and Franklin, born in 1879.

CAPT. JOSEPH A. BAREETT, farmer, a son of Nathaniel and Nancy (Rosberry) Barrett, was born in Smith Township, Posey County, Ind., May 12, 1837, and is of Irish and French descent. His father was born in Westmoreland County, Va., September 9, 1805, and his mother in Tennessee in 1807. His paternal grandfather, George A. Barrett, was a native of Virginia. The Barrett family came to this county in 1816, and set- tied in what is now Eobb TownsMp. There the father died in 1871 and the mother in 1881. The early life of the subject of this sketch was^ mainly spent upon the farm. He enlisted September 15, 1861, in Company B, Sixtieth Indiana Volunteers, and was commissioned second lieutenant September 6, 1862. In February following he was commissioned first lieutenant, and in April, 1863, was made captain of the company. This position he occupied until March, 1865, when he was honorably discharged. At Mumfordsville, Ky., he was taken prisoner, and was retained a prisoner of war two months. After the war he resumed farming, and settled where he now lives seven years ago, where he owns 128 acres of good farming land. He is a selfmade man; is a Democrat in politics, and takes an active part in political affairs. He was elected justice of the peace in 1872, and served as such eight years. In 1882 he was a candidate for the nomination for sheriff, and was beaten by only one vote in the convention. He was married, in 1857, to Miss Kissiah Stallings, by whom he has five children, viz. : Lewis, Emma, Morris, Walter and Bertha.

FRANK D. BOLTON, postmaster. New Harmony, son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Hodgson) Bolton, was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, December 15, 1823. He is of Scotch and English extraction. His father was born at Bolton, England, in 1798, and came to America in 1815, settled in Cincinnati, Ohio, and remained there until 1826. He then came by flat-boat to Mount Vernon, this county, and overland to New Harmony, where he died in 1870. His mother, who was born in 1800, died in 1844. The early life of the subject of this sketch was spent in attendance upon the public schools, and in working at a carding machine. He then clerked in a store, and in a bank, and subsequently began the manufacture of carriages, which he continued for about six years. In November, 1861, he enlisted in Company E, Sixtieth Indiana Infantry, and served two years, during which time he was at the battle of Vicksburg and at Arkansas Post. At first he was appointed commissary-sergeant, and subsequently promoted to quartermaster-sergeant. He was discharged in June, 1863, on account of physical disability. In 1870 he was elected county auditor of Posey County, serving for four years. In 1880 he was elected township trustee of Harmony Township,.

and re-elected in 1882. In August, 1885, he was commissioned postmaster of New Harmony. He. is a representative of one of the early families -of Posey County; in 1852 he was made a member of the I. O. O. F., and he is an ardent and hard-working Democrat, always taking a deep interest in the success of his party. He was married, in 1847, to Miss Mary B. Pooley, a native of Louisville, Ky., by whom he has had four children, only one of whom is living, viz. : Nora, now Mrs. Homer Lichtenberger.

JACOB BEEITH, dealer in drugs and family groceries, was born in Bavaria, Germany, April 15, 1828, and is a son of Frank and l^argaret (Heldebrand) Breith, who were the parents of twelve children. His father was also a native of Germany, a shoe-maker by trade, and served four years in the Bavarian Army. His mother was also of German nativity, both lived and died in their native land. The only education received by our subject was when he was very young. When he was nine years old his father began teaching him the trade of a shoe-maker, at which he worked until arrivii}g at his majority, when according to the law of his country he began serving the regular term of five years in the Bavarian Army. He immigrated to America in 1854, landing at New Orleans, coming up the Mississippi and Ohio Elvers to Evansville, thence to Posey Coiinty, and settling at Stewartsville. For about [two years he worked by the day on the farm at 50 cents per day, and then began the shoe-maker's trade at Stewartsville, where he continued working at his trade until 1870, since which time he has been a resident of New Harmony. For a short time he continued working at his trade in this place. In 1873 he engaged in the grocery business; in 1876 moved to his present place of business, and the same year added a stock of drugs. He was married, March 1, 1854, to Miss Saloma Shifar, also a native of Germany. Of fourteen children born to Mr. and Mrs. Breith, only three survive: Elizabeth, Caroline and Eleanora. At the time of their marriage they were too poor to buy a bedstead and for six weeks had to sleep on the floor, but by energy, economy and hard labor they have made a comfortable living. In politics Mr. Breith is a Democrat, and withal an estimable and worthy citizen.

Biographical Sketches

GEORGE W. BUGKLIN, M. D., was born in Princeton, Gibson County, Ind., May 14, 1850. He is a son of Horace M. and Elmira (Maxam) Bucklin, and is of both Germam and Irish extraction. His father, Horace M. Bucklin, was born in 1811, in Pawtucket, E .1., and his mother in Buffalo, N. Y., in 1817. In about 1830 the Bucklin family came to Indiana and settled in Gibson County. The subject of this sketch spent his boyhood days upon the farm, attending as occasion afforded opportunity the district school. At the age of eighteen he began his academic education at Princeton, after completing which he taught school four years. In 1876 he began the study of medicine at Princeton under the instruction of Dr. S. E. Munford, and during the winters of 1877-78 and 1878-79 he attended medical lectures at Bellevue Hospital and Medical College, New York, graduating February 27, 1879. He located at New Harmony, Ind., April 10, 1879, and has ever since continued here the practice of his profession, and is so far the only graduate of Bellevue College in the county. He is also one of the most thorough physicians in the county, and his practice has equaled his expectations. He is a member of the State Medical Association, is a member of the A. O. of U. W., and also of the Republican party. He is eminently a self-made man and a most courteous gentleman. Dr. Bucklin was married. May 1, 1879, to Miss Emma Wright, daughter of Amos Wright of Warrick County.

CHAELES CHAD WICK, proprietor of the New Harmony Ferry, was born in New Hampshire, February 20, 1842, a son of James and Mary F. (Piper) Chad wick, and of English descent. His father was born near Manchester, England, and came to America in 1830. For a number of years he lived in Cleveland, Ohio, but in 1835 came to Posey County, and engaged in the saddlery business, in which he continued until 1862. From this time until his death in 1865 he was engaged in general merchandising. Mrs. Chadwick was born at Athol, Mass. Her first marriage was with Simeon Dexter in 1838, with whom she lived about two years when Mr. Dexter died, and in 1840 she wedded the father of our subject. To them were born five children, Charles being the eldest. He obtained his education in the New Harmony schools. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company A, Ninety-First Indiana Volunteer Infantry, serving thirty-five months. He was at Atlanta, Cumberland Gap, Nashville, and a the close of the war was in North Carolina; he was discharged in 1865. After the war he was engaged in merchandising, continuing two years. In 1873 he purchased and has since run the New Harmony Ferry. In 1882 he built the steamboat " JohnE. Hugo" for ferry purposes, but finding her too expensive, has since used her for freight; he owns 200 acres of good land, is a prominent citizen, a Eepublican, an Odd Fellow, and a member of the town council; he was married, October 23, 1880, to Miss Helen Eobb, who was born in Posey County in 1860. They have two children: Eobb C, born March 26, 1883, and Nellie, born May 15, 1885.

HOEATIO C. COOPEE, of the firm of Vinton & Cooper, was born at St. Paul, Minn., in 1862. He is a son of Hon. Horatio and Laura (Moore) Cooper, and of English descent. Hon. Horatio Cooper was one of the leading early business men of New Harmony, dealing in pork and merchandise in New Harmony and Evansville for a number of years. John Cooper, the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, came from England to what is now Posey County at an early day. He was a farmer and an early school teacher, and his death occurred here in 1880. Hon. Horatio went to St. Paul, Minn., about 1860, and there remained until his death in 1864. His remains were brought to Posey County for interment, and now repose with those of his kindred in the New Harmony Cemetery. He had served as a member of the Indiana General Assembly. The Cooper family has long been prominent in the county, and has done its part in contributing to the general prosperity. The mother of our subject was born in 1840. After the death of her first husband she married Charles Linck, who died in 1868, and Mrs. Linck now resides in Evansville. The subject of this sketch attended the public schools at Evansville, and afterward came to Posey County, where he was engaged in farming one year. He has made two trips to the Pacific coast. He has a 160 acre farm near Eed Wing, Minn., and in August, 1885, engaged in the jewelry business in partnership with Albert Vinton. Mr. Cooper is a Eepublican, and one of the prominent young men of New Harmony.

born March 20, 1840. He is the youngest son in a family of six children born to John and Margaret (Gibson) Corbin, the former born in Pennsylvania in 1805, and the latter in the same State in 1813. In 1832 the family settled at Farmersville, Posey Co., Ind., but twelve years later moved to New Harmony, from whence the father removed to California in 1850, where he died in 1867. The mother died in Posey County in 1842. John Corbin attended the common schools in youth, and in 1854 went to California, making the trip in six months. In 1858 he returned to Indiana, and the year following entered Asbury University, where he remained until April, 1861. Heartily espousing the Union cause he became a member of the Asbury Guards, a college organization, and which afterward became a part of the Sixteenth Indiana Regiment. After serving one year he returned home and assisted in raising Company A, of which he was elected second lieutenant. In 1862 he was commissioned first lieutenant, and early in 1864 was promoted to the captaincy of his company. In September, 1866, he was honorably discharged from the service. Capt. Corbin embarked in the milling business at New Harmony in 1867, at which he was continuously engaged until the mill was destroyed by fire in 1885. He is now engaged in the ranching and stock raising business in Greenwood County, Kas. He was married, January 13, 1869, to Mary A. Truscott, and four children is the issue to their union: Laura L., John, Marcia V. and Helen M. Mr. Corbin is a Eepublican in politics. Briefly speaking, he is a self-made man. Beginning for himself at about ten years of age he has made life a success financially, and has won distinction as a soldier and private citizen.

JOHN B. ELLIOTT, farmer and fruit grower, was born about one mile northeast of New Harmony, Ind., July 27, 1836, and is a son of John and Mary Ann (Bennett) Elliott. The father was born at Farnham, England, February 11, 1801, immigrated to America in 1830 and settled at New Harmony, Ind. Was married, February 11, 1834, to Mary Ann Bennett, who bore him six children, three of whom yet live. He died December 10, 1864, an honored and respected citizen. His widow, who was born in Surrey County, England, February 27, 1815, immigrated with her parents to this country in 1818, her father, David H., having been a noted Methodist minister. James Elliott, the paternal grandfather of John B., came from England, his native country, to this in 1818, first settling at Evansville, but later removing to New Harmony became a member of Number Three Society in the Owen community, in which he held a prominent position. John B. Elliott, the immediate subject of this biography, passed his boyhood on the farm and attending the public schools. He attended school at Evansville one year, one year at the Indiana State University, and one year at the Western Military Institute at Drennon Springs, Ky., and Syi-ee Springs, Tenn. In 1854 he assisted in surveying a route for the M. & L.- E. E. K, but in 1855 engaged in stock business. In 1856 was placed in charge of his father's farm and mill, and in 1858 and 1859 was engaged in merchandising. November 11, 1858, he wedded Helen A., daughter of Virgil and Martha D. Soper, who was born in this township February 9, 1838, and died August 19, 1883. Seven children were born to them, as follows: William v., Lena, Elmer E., Marcy, John S., Annie and Morton. The first named is dead. Mr. Elliott is one of the county's most progressive citizens, is an Odd Fellow and a Eepublican. He was one of the leading spirits in the establishment of the Posey County Agricultural Society, and has held the position of president of that organization two terms.

THOMAS S. FOED, dealer in fine wines and liquors, is a native of Frederick County, Va. He is a son of William T. and Kate Ford, of English and French ancestry, and the second in a family of eight children. He came with his parents to Kentucky in about 1861. For some time he worked in a tobacco factory, and then clerked in a store. Subsequently he began the practice of dentistry, following this profession some years. Since 1871 he has resided in New Harmony, at first clerking in a store, but May 22, 1883, he engaged in his present business, in which he has been successful. He is a Democrat in politics, and an active worker for that party's success. He is a member of the A. O. U. AV. Lodge No. 87. He has many friends and is well connected, and he is the architect of his own success. Mr. Ford was married, July 2, 1878, to Miss Joseph Walz, daughter of the Hon. John Walz, of New Harmony. Of three children born to Mr. and Mrs. Ford, two survive, viz. : Bessie and Leroy ; Katie being the name of the one that died.

ACHILLES EMEEY FEETAGEOT was born in Paris, France, October 24, 1813, and received a liberal education. He came to New Harmony in 1826, after which date to the time o£ his death, which occurred March 1, 1873, a period of over fortyseven years, he was a resident of New Harmony, and closely identified with its prosperity and history. Possessing an active temperament, his life from boyhood was one of industry and great usefulness. Passing a business life of nearly half a century, he has left a name unsullied by a single blemish. Honest, truthful, generous and kind in his dealings with his fellow-men had made him esteemed by all who knew him. Mr. Eretageot was a very faithful and zealous Odd Fellow, having been for nearly twenty-one years an honored member of New Harmony Lodge No. 87, I. O. O. F., and for many years treasurer of that lodge. At the time of his death he was also treasurer of the Posey County Agricultural Society, a position he had held for twelve years, and was county commissioner elect, having been chosen to the last named office at the October election in 1872, his popularity and usefulness being then recognized, as the opposing party placed no candidate in the field and printed his name on all the tickets. This recognition of his merits was worthy of the man. In his youth and young manhood he was a true and trusted friend and counselor of Alexander McClure and Thomas Say. Mr. McClure entrusted the funds and founding of the Workingmen's Institute Library of New Harmony largely to Mr. Fretageot. Their fi-iendship began in Paris, France, during Mr. McClure' s residence at that city as commissioner of the United States for settlements of claims of American citizens, being known as "The French Spoliation Claims Commissioner." The friendship thus formed between the boy and man was iiever disturbed and remained unbroken until death. A complete history of Mr. Fretageot includes the history of Posey County, and of New Harmony from 1826 to 1873. Born on the banks of the Seine, he passed the useful part of his life on the Wabash ; born in an empire, he died in a republic ; born a subject, he died a sovereign, peer of the noblest and best; he died as he had lived - an honest man. He was the father of twelve children, six of whom were born of his first wife, Miss Cecelia Noell, and six of his second wife. Miss Mary Alexander. His eldest son Alexander M. was a brave soldier, and among the first to enlist in the First Eegiment of Indiana Cavalry, serving in Company C, of that command as a private soldier until his death in the service at Helena, Ark., September 7, 1862. A. H. Fretageot, merchant, New Harmony, Ind., and Oliver N. Fretageot, clerk of the circuit court of Posey County, Ind., are the sole survivors of the male members of the Fretageot family in this country and Europe.

JAMES HINSON, one of the leading farmers o^ Posey County, was born in Wayne County, N. C,, October 1, 1835, the son of John and Smithy (Ward) Hinson, and of English origin. Mr. Hinson is the eldest in a family of three children. His parents were born in Wayne County, N. C, and his father died there in 1843. James came with his widowed mother to Posey County, Ind., in 1854, and in 1877 his mother died. He was reared on the farm, and in 1854 began farming for himself. In 1857 he bought his present farm consisting of 120 acres of well improved land. Mr. Hinson was married, November 10, 1864, to Miss Elizabeth Schnee, a native of Lynn Township, daughter of Cyrus and Agnes (Goad) Schnee. Three children were born to them, named James H., Mattie and Mollie E. He is a Republican, and was made an Odd Fellow in 1872.

WILLIAM M. HOLTON, M. D., of New Harmony, was born in Westminster, Vt., July 15, 1827, and in 1835 removed with his people to McDonough County, 111., where he was reared. In 1849 he went to New York City, and after reading medicine in the office of Prof. Willard Parker, he entered the College of Physicians and Surgeons of that city, which graduated him March 11, 1852. After one year's practice in New York, he returned to Illinois, and in 1859 moved to Stewartsville, Posey Co., Ind. In November, 1861, he joined the Sixtieth Eegiment of Indiana Volunteers, and was made second lieutenant of Company B. In 1862 Gov. Morton caused him to be transferred to the Twenty-fifth Eegiment, of which he was made assistant surgeon, but owing to ill health he was compelled to relinquish his position shortly after the fall of Corinth. In March, 1863, he settled at New Harmony and resumed the practice of his profession, at which he has been very successful. He is deeply interested in all that pertains to his profession, and for a number of years has belonged to the State Medical Society and the Ameri- caB Medical Association. March. 14, 1853, Dr. Holton and Caroline E. Cuyler, of Elizabethtown, N. Y., were united in marriage. Mrs. Holton died March 8, 1873, after bearing eight children, seven of whom survive her. For his present wife Dr. Holton married Mary Fretageot, July 4, 1875. He is a Eepublican in politics, and a member of the I. O. O. F.

JOHN E. HUGO, one of the very few old settlers of New Harmony living, was born in the county of Cornwall, England, January 30, 1814. He was a son of Edward and Amy (Read) Hugo. The family went originally from France to England, having been driven thence during religious persecutions. Edward Hugo was born in England in 1774, and Mrs. Hugo also in England in 1784. The family came to America in 1819, landing in Baltimore, Md., whence they came by wagon to Pittsburgh, Penn. In the spring of 1826 they came by flat-boat to what was then known as McFaddin's Bluff, and thence to New Harmony, the father having died, however, near Pitbsburgh in 1822. At the time of the removal the family consisted of the widowed mother and seven children. Mrs. Hugo died in 1873. The subject of this sketch before he was thirteen years old began serving an apprenticeship to the carpenter's trade, which lasted him until he was nineteen years old. He followed this trade until

1848, and afterward for about twenty years he was engaged in steam-boating, and for the same length of time owned the New Harmony Ferry. From 1868 to 1872 he was engaged in merchandising. He has been a member of the I. O. O. F. since

1849, and is the only charter member living here of New Harmony Lodge No. 87. In 1838 he joined th$ General Baptist Church in Gibson County, Ind., remaining a member of that body until the fall of 1845, when by letter he united with the Methodist Episcopal Church in New Harmony, of which he still remains a member. Politically he is a Republican, and is one of the prominent old settlers living in the county, and is one of the old fashioned gentleman. Mr. Hugo was married, August 25, 1835, to Miss Jane McAllister, of Evansville, , by whom he had four children, only one of whom is now living, viz. : William H. Mrs. H go died March 11, 1846. Mr. Hugo married again, December 3, 1846, Miss Jane K. Craddock, a native of Wabash County, 111. By this marriage there are three children living.

1854, to Mrs. Kachael Griffith, of Pittsburgh, Penni, by whom he had four children, viz.: Jenkin T., Thomas E., May and Eacie. Mrs. Hugo died December 10, 1871, and the fourth and last marriage of Mr. Hugo was solemnized November 3, 1872, to Mrs. Elizabeth Craddock, a native of England, who came to America in 1834.

B. PEOCTOE HUME, farmer and fine stock raiser, was born where he now resides, in Harmony Township, April 8, 1861. He is a representative of an early family. He is a son of W. "W. Hume and Emily J. Hume, whose maiden name was Taylor. He is the youngest of this family. His father was born near Covington, Ky., October 19, 1821, and his mother was born August 20, 1833. His father came to Posey County when quite a young man and settled in Harmony Township, where he resided until recently. He was three times married. The subject of this sketch grew to manhood on the farm* At the age of sixteen he began farming for himself, and now owns 160 acres of fine farming land. He lives on the old Hume homestead. For some years he has been giving attention to the raising of fine hogs and cattle - poland-china hogs, and short-horn cattle. He now has the largest herd of short-horns in the county. Mr. Hume is a good farmer and an enterprising citizen. In politics he is a Democrat. He was married March 19, 1880, to Miss Anna Stallings, a native of Posey County, and daughter of Calvin and Mary Stallings. Mr. and Mrs. Hume have one child, Margie, born March 18, 1882.

HENEY HUNSDON, general merchant, notary public, attorney at law and advocate of United States pension claims, is a native of Hertford, England, having been born November 30, 1835. He is a son of Henry and Sarah (Mnmford) Hunsdon. His parents were born, lived and died in England, both dying while he was a mere boy. His education up to the time when he was thirteen years old, was received at an English charity school. At that time at the request of Thomas Mumford, Sr., he came to America, and almost directly to New Harmony. With Thomas Mumford, Sr., he lived about one year, at the end of which period he was engaged by Mr. Mumford to clerk in his store.

Young Henry remained in this position ten years. In 1863, he engaged in the general merchandising business, forming a partnership with John Cooper, Jr. This partnership lasted until the death of Mr. Cooper in 1874: Since this time, Mr. Hunsdon has remained alone, and, being a practical man, has built up a successful and extensive business. For twelve years past he has been engaged in the prosecution of pension claims. He was admitted to the bar in this county in 1883, is a first-class office lawyer, and does an extensive business in the preparation of legal papers. He was commissioned a notary public in 1874, and has ever since held the office. Mr. Hunsdon is a conspicuous example of a self-made man. Thrown on his own resources in childhood he has won his present position, and earned his success by his own unaided efforts. He was married in 1857, to Miss Louisa J. Woods, of Louisville, Ky. They have three children: George A., Nelson S. and Marion. Mr. Hunsdon has been a member of the I. 0. O. F., since 1878.

JOHN HUNTEE, farmer and stock raiser, son of William and Margaret (Nash) Hunter, was born in Posey County, September 21, 1825. He is of English and Irish descent, and the fourth in a family of seven children. The father of our subject came from Pennsylvania to what is now Posey County in 1815, and was thus one of the early pioneers of the county. He was a farmer by occupation, bought his land of the Harmony Dutch, and died in this county when our subject was about ten years old. The mother of our subject was born in Pennsylvania, and came to this State in 1815, and has resided here ever since. .John Hxmter was brought up on the farm upon which he now resides. When quite young he attended school three months each year for a few years. He has always lived on the old homestead, has more than 400 acres of fine farming land, and is one of the leading farmers of Harmony Township. Prior to the war of the Eebellion, he was a Democrat, but since that he has been a Kepublican. In February 1850, he was married to Miss Lucinda Wade, born in Posey County in 1830, and a daughter of Isaac M. and Sarah Wade. Mr. and Mrs. Hunter have six children viz.: William W., Mary J., Sarah, Virginia A., John N. and Martha B.

County, N. C, in 1816, the son of Eichard and Nancy (Sawyer) Johnson, is of Irish descent and the second of four children. His father was also born in North Carolina in 1784, and died in Arkansas in 1828, while on his way to Posey County, Ind. Camma E. Johnson came to Posey County, Ind., in 1828, was reared on the farm as a "bound boy," from the age of twelve to twenty-one years, by a man whose name was John Osley. He began life for himself at the age of twenty-one ; for five years he worked at various kinds of employment and then began farming. For some years he lived on "Cut-off" Island, and then removed to his present place of residence, now owning 210 acres of good land. Mr. Johnson is an excellent farmer, a man of limited knowledge of books but of good judgment and practical sense. He was married in 1839 to Eachel Staley, of Pennsylvania. Of nine children born to their union seven still live: Eichard, Virgil, Anna E., Haywood, Eigdon, Sidney E. and Louis E. Mrs. Johnson died in June, 1884. Politically Mr. Johnson is a Democrat. He has twenty-three grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren. Mr. Johnson has always borne the reputation of an honorable man.

J. N. JOHNSON, retired farmer, was born in Nelson County, Ky., in 1826. He is a son of Elias and Sarah (Whitehead) Johnson, and of English and Irish extraction. His father was born near Ealeigh; N. C, in 1792, and his mother in Virginia in 1796. The former when a young man immigrated to Kentucky where he remained until 1832, when he came to Posey County, Ind. He lived on a farm until his death in 1860, Mrs. Johnson having died two years before. The subject of this sketch is next to the youngest in a family of eight. He remained on the farm with his father until nearly twenty years of age, when he began life for himself. In 1848 he commenced farming and followed agricultural pui-suits until 1880, when he retired. He now owds 724 acres of finely improved land. Mr. Johnson is an honorable and honored citizen, and one of the leading men of the county. Politically he is a Eepublican. In 1878 he was a candidate for sheriff, carrying his own town and township which are usually Democratic, and being defeated in the county by only 232 votes. He was married in 1848 to Miss Mary Stallings, a native of Posey

THOMAS J. JOHNSON, county surveyor, was born where he now resides, January 11, 1845. He is a son of Moses and Elizabeth (Johnson) Johnson, and is of English and Irish descent His father was born in Posey County in 1817, and his mother in Hardin County, Ky., in 1813. His paternal grandfather, Thomas H. Johnson, was born in Franklin County, N. C, in 1787, and immigrated to this Territory in 1812, where he remained about six years. He then went to Hardin County, Ky., and remained until 1830, when he returned to Posey County, Ind. His death occurred in Clay County, 111., in 1869. His maternal grandfather was Elias Johnson, also a native of North Carolina, born in 1789, and died in Posey County in 1860. The father of the subject of this sketch was the first elected county surveyor of Posey County in 1854. He was again elected in 1872, and died in office May 9, 1874. He was a man of much general information, gaining his knowledge through his own exertions. He was a prominent citizen and much respected by the entire community. The mother of our subject still resides on the old home farm. He himself was raised on the farm and attended the common schools. In 1863 he entered the State University at Bloomington, remaining two years. In the winter of 1864-65 he attended a course of law lectures at the University by Judge Bicknell. In 1870 he was admitted to the Posey County bar and practiced law for some time. In 1870 he was elected surveyor of Posey County and served one term, and was subsequently appointed to fill the vacancy in that office caused by his father's death. He is a prominent Democrat and takes an active part in local politics. His long service in the office of county surveyor is merely indicative of the fact that he is one of the most reliable surveyors the county has ever had. He was married in 1869 to Mrs. Elizabeth C. Barrett, formerly Miss Miller of Posey County, and a daughter of John Miller. Mrs. Johnson died December 17, 1881. She was a most estimable woman, and a devoted member of the Christian Church.

EUGENE V. JOHNSON, insurance agent and president of the Posey County Agricultural Association, was born in Posey County, October 5, 1849. He is a son of Zachariah and Catha- rine (Staley) Johnson, both of them natives of Posey County, the former having been born here in 1820, and the latter in 1822, He is of German and Scotch descent. His early life was spent upon the farm, and in attendance at the district school, until he arrived at the age of twenty years. In 1875 he engaged in the hardware and agricultural implement business in New Harmony, in which he continued until 1884, when on account of ill-health he was obliged to retire from active business. His firm was known as the New Harmony Machine Company. In November, 1884, Mr. Johnson was elected president of the Posey County Agricultural Association. For several years he has been in the insurance business, but did not devote much attention to it previous to 1884. He is a self-made man, has been successful, and is one of the prominent men of Posey County. In politics, he is a Democrat, and is a member of the town council. Mr. Johnson was married, in 1878, to Miss Louisa Fretageot, a native of Posey County, by whom he has four children; Eugenia L., John T., Nettie and Gertrude.

CHARLES KEMMERLING (deceased), was born in Germany, March 10, 1828. Both of his parents were also natives of Germany. Early in life he learned the butcher's trade and carried it on for quite a number of years in his native country. In 1851 he immigrated to America, landing at New Orleans, coming up the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers to Evansville, and thence to Posey County. For many years he resided near New Harmony, carrying on the butchering and meat market business, and also farming extensively. In 1872 he bought the farm on which his widow still continues to reside, consisting of 245 acres of wellimproved land, and familiarly known as the " Old Pelham farm." Mr. Kemmerling was an enterprising and successful man, being worth, at the time of his death, about $50,000. He died, September 9, 1885, and was mourned by many friends. In politics he was a Democrat, and a prominent, honorable man. He was married, September 15, 1851, to Miss Elizabeth Schafer, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (King) Schafer, and born in Germany, in 1832. Of fourteen children born to Mr. and Mrs. Kemmerling, only eight survive, as follows: Charles, Louisa, Elizabeth, Henry, Jacob, Anna, Mary and Frederick.

JULIUS C. JMILLEE, of New Harmony, was born in Lehigh County, Penn., January 6, 1834, and is a son of Joseph and Barbara (Fahrlender) Miller, who were natives of Ettenheim, Germany, the former having been born in 1798. Joseph Miller immigrated to the United States, in 1832, and settled where our subject was afterward born. Three years later the family moved to Posey County, Ind., and settled near New Harmony, where the father died in 1858, and the mother in 1863; Julias C. Miller was reared to early manhood by his parents receiving a common school education. In 1851 he went to Evansville and there learned the confectioner's trade. In 1854 he returned to New Harmony where he has since successfully carried on that branch of trade. Mr. Miller cast his first presidential ballot for James Buchanan, but for the last twenty -nine years has been an active Eepublican, In July, 1861, he was appointed postmaster at New Harmony, and with the exception of about eighteen months during Johnson's administration, he served continuously in that office up to August 15, 1885. He is an Odd Fellow, a Freemason, and is one of the foremost citizens of the place. September 18, 1857, Miss Phebe Grant, a native of this county and daughter of Collin and Margaret Grant, became his wife, and by him, the mother of these two children, now living : Emma G. and Frank J. JOHN W. MILLEE was born March 25, 1847. He is a son of Lavis and Margaret (Wise) Miller, and of English descent. His father was born near Strasburg, France (now Germany), January 16, 1803, as was also his mother, April 11, 1813. They both immigrated from the old country to America when quite young, and came to Indiana in its early days. The subject of this sketch is the sixth of a family of nine children. With his parents and the rest of the family he came to Posey County in 1852, and settled near Stewartsville, where his parents still reside. At the age of eighteen he began learning the marble business at Evansville, under the direction of Uhlhom & Brinkmann. In 1868 he went to Mount Carmel, 111., and began the marble business on his own account. In 1871 he came to New Harmony, where he has ever since continued in the same business. He is now one of the most extensive marble and granite dealers in southern Indiana. He handles all kinds of granite, and the following kinds of marble: Tennessee, Whitney, Italian, Mottled

Blue of Vermont, Esperenza of the same State, and the Mottled Blue of New York. He also deals in all kinds of statuary. His work is sold and erected in many towns in Indiana - Evansville, Vincennes, Princeton, Owensville, Mount Vernon, Oakland, Jasper, Haubstadt, Fort Branch, and also in Illinois - Mount Carmel, Grayville, Albion, Carmi, Burnt Prairie and other towns, all of which demostrate the fact that Mr. Miller is a man of enterprize and energy. He was married, in 1868, to Lydia A. Burrucker of Evansville, a daughter of George and Catharine Burrucker. Tbey have four children: Ealph S., William L., Clarence J. and Oscar M. Mr. Miller is a Democrat, and has been a member of the town council. He became an Odd Fellow in 1868, Lodge No. 87, of Encampment No. 78, and of the A. O. U. W. No. 87.

HENEY MANN, proprietor of the New Harmony lumber yard, and of the New Harmony Washboard Factory and Planingmill, was born in Posey County, Ind., August 6, 1854. He is a son of Martin and Elizabeth (Mann) Mann, and is of German descent. His parents were both born in Germany, his father in 1827 and his mother in 1826. His father came to America when eighteen years of age, and settled in Evansville, Ind. In 1848 he came to Posey County, where he npw resides. The subject of this sketch was raised on the farm and during the winters attended the common schools. At the age of twenty-one he began business on his own account. In 1876 he engaged in the sawmill business ; in 1878 in the lumber business ; in 1880 he opened a lumber yard at Calvin Station, and in 1885 he purchased the New Harmony Washboard Factory and Planing-mill, all of which branches of business he still continues to operate. He is conducting a prosperous business, and employs twenty-five men. He has been an enterprising and is a successful business man ; is a Democrat and a member of the Presbyterian Church. Mrs. Mann is also a Presbyterian. He was married in 1878 to Miss Elizabeth Kemmerling, who was bom March 3, 1855, a daughter of Charles and Elizabeth K. Kemmerling. They have three children: Henry M., born May 30, 1880; Charles J., born February 22, 1882, and Elizabeth, born November 8, 1883.

ANDEEW NASH, an old pioneer of Posey County, was bom in Butler County, Penn., November 26, 1809. He is a son of Jesse and Sarah (Cavett) Nash, and of Welsh and Irish descent.

His father was born in Delaware in 1765, and was raised in that State. His mother was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., in 1775. The Nash family came to what is now Posey County in 1815. Jesse Nash was a carpenter, a natural mechanic and a farmer. He died here in 1846, and Mrs. Nash in 1857, The subject of this sketch was raised on the farm and had very little opportunity to obtain an education. In 1832 he began clearing for himself the farm he now owns. In 1838 he bought his present home for $5 per acre, and now owns 885 acres of fine land. He has been successful, and has lived to see Posey County transformed from a dense wilderness to one of the first agricultural counties in the State, and now, at the advanced age of over the allotted three score years and ten, he has sufficient property to permit him to rest from active labor. In politics he is a Kepub- Ucan. He was married, in 1831, to Miss Maria Montgomery, a native of Kentucky, by whom he had one child, Eliza J. Mrs. Nash died September 15, 1838. Mr. Nash was again married in 1841, to Miss Julia Ann Smith, a native of Posey County, born May 31, 1820, daughter of George W. Smith, also a pioneer of the county, having come here before 1815. Of this marriage there are nine children, as follows: William C, Mary E., John A., Charles E., Martha A., Nancy A., James, Andrew J. and Eugene W.

DE. DANIEL NEAL, one of the oldest practicing physicians of Posey County, Ind., and for many years a resident of New Harmony, is a son of Max and Ann (Williams) Neal, who were of Irish extraction. These parents were natives of South Carolina, and when Indiana was yet a Territory they removed thither and settled in Posey County, where the subject of this biography was born January 21, 1828. Until 1846 his life was passed upon a farm, and the succeeding three years he attended the Mount Vernon schools. He was employed then as a dry goods clerk for one year, but in 1850 crossed the plains by ox-team to the gold fields of California, where he remained until 1852, when he returned to his native county. In 1853 he began the study of medicine with Dr. F. A. Mott, of New Harmony; in 1854 he attended the Transylvania Medical College of Lexington, Ky., and two years later began the regular practice of medicine. In 1857 he removed to Jackson County, 111., but in 1866 returned to New

Karmony, which has since been his home. Dr. Neal is a Democrat, a representative of one of the pioneer families of the county and an enterprising citizen. To his marriage with Martha Bennett, which occurred in May, 1857, four children have been born: Nellie, MoUie, Benjamin and August.

PEOF. RICHAKD OWEN, LL.D. Among the most celebrated and eminent men of Indiana, is Prof. Eichard Owen, youngest son of Eobert Owen, the English philanthropist and social reformer, who was born at Newton, Montgomeryshire, England, in 1771, and who died November 19, 1858. The subject of this sketch was born January 6, 1810, at BraxfieldHouse, near New Lanark, Scotland. He was educated chiefly at Hofwyl, Switzerland, but subsequently attended lectures in Glasgow, Scotland, delivered by Dr. Andrew Ure. In 1828 Prof. Owen immigrated to America, and settled at New Harmony, the scene of his father's social experiments. He here engaged in farming until the breaking out of the Mexican war, when he was commissioned captain of the Sixteenth United States Infantry, in which position he served until the close of the war. In 1849 he became assistant to his brother, Dr. David Dale Owen, in his survey of the Northwest Territory, under the General Government, and in company with Dr. I. G. Norwood, examined the northwest shore of Lake Superior. Later he was elected professor of geology and chemistry in the Western Military Institute of Kentucky, and there remained about ten years. While connected with that institution he published a work . entitled " Key to the Geology of the Globe." In 1850, Prof. Owen returned to Indiana, and became assistant, and subsequently State geologist. On the breaking out of the late civil war he was commissioned by Gov. O. P. Morton, lieutenant-colonel of the Fifteenth Indiana Volunteers, and participated in the battles of Eich Mountain and Greenbrier, W. Va., was at the first siege of Vicksburg, under Sherman, at the battle of Arkansas Post, and at the fall of Vicksburg under Grant. He was a true and brave soldier, and was honorably discharged. In 1863 he was elected to fill the chair of natural science in the Indiana State University, which position he filled with great credit and ability. In 1872 he was elected president of the Perdue University, but declined the proffered honor, and in the same year Wabash College conferred upon him the degree of LL. D. In 1837 Prof.

Biograpichal Sketches

Owen was married to the fourth daughter of Joseph Neef, the associate of Pestalozzi. In 1869 he visited Europe, extending his travels to Turkey, Egypt and Palestine. He is a great and celebrated naturalist. He resigned his professorship in the Indiana State University at the close of 1879, and a brief account of a portion of his labors since then is here introduced. In 1883 the king of the Belgians offered a prize of 25,000 francs for the work adjudged most meritorious in recommending "The best system of popularizing Geography, and teaching it in institutions of all grades." The award has not yet (September 1, 1885), been made. Prof. Owen's work for the prize consisted of a manuscript in English, French and German, advocating in the study of geography, the advance step by step, from the known surroundings of the student, viz. : the homestead, measured and mapped, to the less known but visited neighborhood, and finally to unknown but well described regions. He recommended models in relief of any country the pupil might be studying, and sent many specimens of such relief maps, etc., besides about eighty-five illustrative maps and diagrams. Since the completion of this work for Belgium, Prof. Owen has sent to the Montreal meeting of the A. A. S., a paper showing that the earthquakes most frequently occurring in Great Britian are transmitted along a great circle, which after leaving Etna and Stromboli, traverse the poles of the land hemisphere in Switzerland, skirt the east coast of England, and passing through a part of Scotland, frequently shaken by slight tremors (comrie), reach Hecla in Iceland. Dr. Owen, having been made a member of the British Association at their Montreal meeting, sent to the Aberdeen meeting a communication on the "Correlation of Solar and Terrestrial Dynamics," endeavoring to show the close connection existing between any changes in the sun, as sun spots, solar storms, etc., and the meteorological and other conditions of our earth, thereby modifying, directly or indirectly, the development and well being of its inhabitants. When the International Geological Congress met in Bologna, in 1881, Dr. Owen, by request, sent a paper on the "Unification of Geological Nomenclature." The president of the congress sent an autograph letter expressing the thanks of the congress for the communication, and requested a translation in French, for insertion in their "proceedings," which request was granted. The con- gress meets once in four years, this year (1885), in Berlin, Prussia. In response to an invitation by circular, to be present or contribute a paper. Dr. Owen transmitted a box, containing a relief map, a section, a painting and a descriptive manuscript, recommending a system of uniform coloring for geological maps, based on a selection of the colors of the rainbow, from red to violet, to characterize geological formations from the oldest to the newest.

EENEST DALE OWEN, attorney at law, was born at New Harmony, Posey Co., Ind., April 17, 1853. He is a son of the late celebrated Robert Dale Owen, and Mary Owen, whose maiden name was Robinson. The subject of this sketch is of Scotch and Welsh ancestry. His father, Robert Dale Owen, came to Posey County in 1825, and settled at New Harmony, with his kinsmen. In 1853 he went to Europe as United States Minister to Naples, Italy, taking with him his son, the subject of this sketch. Ernest Dale Owen received an excellent education at European schools and in New York City. He began the study of law in 1870, and in 1871 was admitted to practice in the Indiana courts, and has built up for himself an extensive practice by industry and rigid adherence to principle. He is a consistent and earnest Republican, and in 1884 was the candidate on the Republican ticket for circuit judge of this judicial district. He is a representative man of southern Indiana, and is widely and favorably known for his many excellent qualities of head and heart. In 1871 he was made a member of the I. O. O. F., and was married April 17, 1873, to Miss Frances Mann, a native of Posey County, Ind. The father of our subject died at Lake George, N. T., in 1877, and his mother in New Harmony in 1871.

LOUIS PELHAM, Adams Express agent. New Harmony, was born in New Harmony in 1838. He is a representative of one of the pioneer families of Posey County. He is a son of William C. and Catharine (Gex) Pelham, and of English descent. His father was born in Massachusetts in 1801, and his mother at Vevay, Ind., in 1810. His grandfather was a native of Massachusetts, came to Posey County in 1825, and died here in 1835. His father came to this county in 1826, and was by occupation a farmer and miller, and died in 1846. His mother died in 1850. The subject of this sketch himself remained in the county until after the death of his father and mother, and then he went to Mason County, Ky., where he followed farming until 1860, when he returned to his native county, and there followed the same occupation until 1872. From this time until 1881, he was in the insurance business, and in the latter year was appointed agent for Adams Express Company, at New Harmony. For some years he has been giving much attention to fine poultry, making a specialty of the Plymouth Bock variety. He is a Republican and a member of the I. O. O. F., and himself and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Pelham was married in 1864, to Miss Mary Chadwick, of Posey County, by whom he had two children: Cassie C. and Charles L. Mrs. Pelham died in 1878, and Mr. Pelham married again in 1884, this time to Miss Eleanora, daughter of D. M. Schnee.

HENRY E. POTE, one of the leading farmers of Harmony Township, was born in Posey County, Ind., November 4, 1842, the son of Thomas and Maria (Coad) Pote and is of English descent. He was reared on the farm, attended school but a short time, working for his father until twenty-two years of age and then beginning for himself. In 1867 he bought what was known as the Ptolemy Wells farm, upon which he resided until 1872, when he removed to his present place of residence, owning in all 101 acres of well improved land. In 1865 he was married to Miss Nancy Bailey a native of this county and daughter of John A. and Cynthia Bailey, and by her is the father of three children, named Thomas B., George W. and Grace. Mr. Pote is a Democrat, and in 1875 was made a member of the I. O. O. F. He is a stock holder of the Posey County Agricultural Society and has been superintendent of the association for six years. He is one of the foremost citizens of Posey County.

MAUEICE B. POTE, farmer, was born near New Harmony, Posey Co., Ind., July 28, 1844, the son of Thomas and Maria Pote, and is of English descent. He was reared on the farm, attending the early schools in youth, and assisted his father on the home place until he enlisted, in July, 1862, in Company A, Ninety-first Indiana Volunteer Infantry, for three years or during the war. He participated in the battles of Fort Knoxville, Lookout Mountain, Kenesaw Mountain, Marietta, Atlanta, Franklin and numerous other engagements and was discharged July

9, 1865. In 1866 he began farming for himself, and in 1868 bought his present place. He is one of the progressive farmers of this county, and his valuable farm is just outside the corporation of New Harmony. Mr. Pote bought the first sulky plow sold in New Harmony, and had the first wind engine put up in the county, all of which shows an enterprising spirit. May 6, 1866, he was married to Miss Mary Schnee, daughter of Luther and Caroline Schnee and four children, named Carrie M., Annie B., Eacie and Sarah B., have been born to them. Mr. Pote is a Eepublican and was made a member of the I. O. O. F, in 1875. He has been the architect of his own success.

SAMUEL O. EAWLINGS, M. D.,one of the successful disciples of ^sculapius in Posey County, was born September 10, 1845, atOlney, 111., where he was reared and educated. Lloyd Eawlings, his father, was born in the Buckeye State in 1803, and at an early day moved to Illinois. In 1849 he was attracted to the gold fields of California and while there had an encounter with that king of the western forests, the grizzly bear, in which he was not only disabled but suffered disfigurement for life. He died in 1883. The mother of our subject was born in the year 1813. Dr. Eawlings, in 1867, began the study of medicine in his native county under the direction of Dr. M. Vancougdon ; and in 1869 attended the Cincinnati College of Physicians and Surgeons which graduated him in 1873. In 1870 he established himself in his profession at New Harmony where he has won a desirable practice. Alice Youngblood, of Boonyille, Ind., became his wife in May, 1877, and by him the mother of these children: Elbert W., Claude E. and Aden. Since 1875, Dr. Eawlings has been an Odd Fellow. He is a Democrat and leading citizen of the county.

WILLIAM EICHAEDS, dealer in hardware, farm machinery, buggies and wagons and grain, was born in Harmony Township, July 17, 1846. He is the son of John J. and Mary (Dunbar) Eichards, and is of Scotch-Irish descent. His father was born in North Carolina, October 3, 1819, and his mother in Pennsylvania, in 1826. His grandfather William Eichards was also a Carolinian. The Eichards family came to Indiana about 1832 and settled in Harmony Township. The subject of this sketch spent his boyhood upon the farm until he was eighteen years old. He then taught school four years, and during the four subsequent yeaxs was engaged in farming and saw-milling. From the end of this period until 1884 he was engaged in farming, and he now owns an excellent farm of 180 acres near New Harmony. In 1884 he entered upon the business of selling buggies and wagons in New Harmony, and in the spring of 1885 added a full line of hardware, and now has an exceedingly prosperous business. Mr. Richards is one of the prominent men of New Harmony, having led a successful life. He was made a Mason in 1869, and a Royal Arch Mason and a member of the I. O. O. F. in 1872. Politically he is a Democrat, and in 1884 was elected trustee of New Harmony Township by sixty-nine majority. He now owns a part of the old Richards' homestead. Mr. Richards was married February 12, 1873, to Miss S. Jennie Wilson, daughter of Christopher and Elizabeth Wilson. They have four children : Hattie, Nettie, Minnie and Nola. Mr. Richards has been president for two years of the Posey County Agricultural Society, and is pne of the most enterprising men of Posey County.

RICHARD RICHARDS, farmer of Harmony Township, and a representative of an early family of Posey County, was born within the county in 1857. He is a son of Joshua and Polly (Wilkerson) Richards and is of Scotch and German origin. His father was born in North Carolina in 1813, came to Posey County in 1832 and here died in 1872. Mrs. Richards was born December 23, 1823, and still resides on the old homestead. The subject of this sketch was raised on the farm, and received his education at the common schools. At the age of seventeen he began farming the home farm, at which he has since continued, and at which he has been reasonably successful, having sixty-seven acres of well improved land. Politically he is an earnest Democrat, ^nd a highly respected citizen. In 1881 he became a member of New Harmony Lodge No. 394, A. F. & A. M. and is recognized as one of the county's best citizens.

LEWIS RICHARDS, farmer, was born in Harmony Township, Posey Co., Ind., September 14, 1861. He is a son of John J. and May (Aldridge) Richards, is of Scotch and German descent, and is the eldest son by his father's second marriage. At twelve years of age he began life for himself as a farmer on the old homestead. He attended the common schools, but being an extensive reader he has gained more by his own efforts than with the aid of schools. He has succeeded in business also by his own efforts. His father was a leading early settler, and he himself is an active, enterprising man. He is a Democrat in politics, and an earnest worker for his party's succcess. He was married, March 15, 1883, to Miss Lizzie Schaeffer, who was born in 1855, a daughter of George and Louisa Schaeffer. Mr. and Mrs. Eichards have one child, viz.. Pearl, born December 22, 1884. Mr. Eichards settled in 1884, where he now resides.

DAVID M. SCHNEB, grocer and harness-maker, was born at Lancaster, Penn., November, 1820. He is a son of Jacob and Catharine (Krips) Schnee, and of German descent. His father was born in Lebanon County, Penn., in 1784, and in 1827 came to Posey County, Ind., with a number of Pennsylvania families. After remaining in Posey County about a year and a half he went to Cincinnati, Ohio, remaining there until 1829, when he returned to New Harmony, and settled on the farm. He was a prominent man among the early settlers, and was at one time county judge. He died in 1838. The subject of this sketch was next to the youngest in a family of ten children, only four of whom now survive. He remained in his father's service until nineteen years of age, when he began learning the trade of a harness-maker in Evansville under J. P. Elliott. After, serving an apprenticeship of three years, in 1845 he engaged in business for himself at New Harmony. He continued in the harness-making business alone until 1880, when he added thereto the grocery business, both of which he still carries on. Mr. Schnee is one of the prominent and well-known men of New Harmony. In 1850 he was apjwinted by the General Government to take the census of Posey County. In May, 1851, he became a member of the I. O. O. F., and has been chosen three times a delegate to the Grand Lodge. In politics he was formerly a Whig, but is now a Eepublican. Mr. Schnee was married, in 1845, to Miss Nancy W. Traverse, of AVarren County, Ky,, by whom he has three children: Eleanor a M., Kate M. and Harry T.

THOMAS P. SHEPHEED, farmer and stock raiser, was born near where he now lives, in 1829. He is a son of William H. and Mary (Perry) Shepherd, and is of English descent Both of his parents were bom in England, his father in 1769, and his mother in 1789. The family came to America and settled in Pennsylvania, and after remaining there a short time came to what is now Posey County, Ind., in 1816. Here William H. Shepherd died four months previous to the birth of the subject of this sketch. Mrs. Shepherd died in 1860, having, however, attended her own mother at her last illness in her native country. Thomas P. Shepherd was raised on the farm, and attended school in a log schoolhouse. In 1859 he settled where he now lives, and where he has 159 acres of good land, well improved. For some years he has been paying attention to the raising of fine horses. He was married, in 1864, to Mrs. Nancy Jane Lockridge, who was formerly a Miss Eandolph, born in Illinois, and came to Posey County in early life. Mr. Shepherd is a Democrat, and a prosperous farmer. Both himself and Mrs. Shepherd are members of the Eegular Baptist Church.

PEEDEEICK SIEKMANN, farmer and dairyman, was born in Prussia, Germany, January 14, 1821. He is the son of Arnold and Mary (Steinbech) Siekmann, and is the youngest of seven sons. His father was born in Prussia in 1782, and died there in 1832. His paternal grandfather was Peter Siekmann. The subject of this sketch was educated in Prussian schools, and immigrated to America in 1852, landing at New Orleans. He came up the Ohio Eiver to Bvansville, and settled in Warrick County, Ii;d., where he remained until 1876, when he came to Posey County, and settled where he now resides. He now owns 120 acres of good land. In 1883 he began the dairy business which he still continues. Mr. Siekmann is a self-made man, a good citizen, a Democrat, and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was married, in 1846, to Margaret Boemer, born February 25, 1826, a daughter of Henry and Mary Boemer. They have had thirteen children, five of whom are living: Caroline, born February 28, 1852; Gideon, born December 22, 1855; Amelia, born August 7, 1862; Eli, born November 3, 1864, and Anna, born July 12, 1867.

JOHN T. SOPEE, farmer, was born in New Harmony, Ind., April 8, 1836. He is the son of Virgil and Martha D. (Thrall) Soper, and of English descent. His father was born in Connecticut October 20,1803, and his mother in the same State July 30, 1809. The former came to Indiana in a very early day, and set- tied in Gibson County, where he remained until about 1830, when he came to Posey County and settled in New Harmony Township, becoming an extensive land owner, and one of the prominent farmers of the county. His death occurred December 17, 185{>. Mrs. Soper died December 26, 1859. The subject of this sketch is the second of seven children. He was educated at the Mount Vernon schools; after which he remained on the farm in the service of his father until 1861, when he enlisted in Company C, Sixtieth Indiana Volunteer Infantry. Eemaining in the service one year he was discharged at Lebanon, Ky., on account of physical disability, and returning home, he again engaged in agricultural pursuits, which have been his life work. He now owns the old Soper homestead, and in all has 400 acres of the best land in Posey County. In politics Mr. Soper is a consistent Republican. He was married, October 1, 1865, to Miss Jane E. McCoUum, a native of Wayne County, 111., who died July 19, 1866. Mr. Soper married again, October 8, 1874, Miss Julia E. Osbom, a native of Farmersville, Posey County, Ind.

AUSBUEN T. STEPHENS, proprietor of the Stephens House, New Harmony, was born in Covington, Ky., November 15, 1819. His father was James Stephens, and his mother Sarah (Trail) Stephens. The former was born in Virginia in 1780, and the latter in Maryland in 1796. James Stephens died in 1825, and Mrs. Stephens in 1879. The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm in Kenton County, Ky., and remained in Kentucky until January, 1855, at which time he came to Posey County, Ind. He settled on Section 22, Lynn Township, where he followed farming until 1884, when he retired from farm life. In this year he became proprietor of what was formerly the "Randolph House," which he has since improved, and it is now a good hotel. He was married, in 1842, to Miss Elizabeth Hume, a native of Kentucky. Of this marriage there were born live children, four of whom are now living: Orion W., Ezra A., Parthemia and Flora. Mrs. Stephens died in 1881, and Mr. Stephens was married, the second time, in 1884, to Mrs. Hectorenna Real, a native of New Harmony. Mr. Stephens has been a Mason since 1854, and in politics he is a Democrat.

Nancy ) Willis) Stalliugs, and is of English descent. His father was one of the pioneer settlers of the county, and also one of the prominent men among them. He was born in North Carolina,, but immigrated to Posey County when yet a young man. He lived here the remainder of his life. Mrs. Nancy Stallings was born in Tennessee. The subject of this sketch is the only one living of thirteen children ; he was raised on the' farm and his opportunities for obtaining an education were |but meager. He began the life of a farmer for himself when twenty-two years old, settling where he now lives in 1848. He owns 200 acres of wellimproved land, lying in the corner of three townships - Harmony, Centre and Lynn. He is a successful farmer, and in politics a Democrat; he was married in 1847, to Miss Maria Nash, a native of Posey County. She is a daughter of Jesse and Nancy Nash, and was born in 1829. Mr. and Mrs. Stallings have nine children, as follows: Cynthia, Samuel L., "William H., Mary E., John H., Jesse M., Charles, Wilson W. and Andrew.

JASPEK NEWTON STALLINGS, farmer and stock raisei;, was born in Eobb Township, Posey County, May 9, 1842. He is a son of the late Willis and Matilda (Harvey) Stallings, and of English extraction; he is the ninth in a family of thirteen children; his father was born in North Carolina, February 28, 1805, and immigrated to what is now Posey ' County, when he was about ten years of age, in company with his parents ; he lived in Harmony Township until he was twenty-two years old, when he removed to Eobb Township, and settled on the farm where he lived until his death, August 3, 1885; he accumulated much property, was a leading, early day citizen, and died surrounded by a large circle of relatives and many friends ; he was twice married, and is survived by his second wife, who lives on the old homestead. The mother of our subject died when he was six years old; his education was received at the common schools. At the breaking out of the war, he enlisted in Company A, Fiftysixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, being on a visit to a relative in "Sudsdam." January 1, 1863, he re-enlisted in same companj and regiment; he took active part in seventeen different engagements, the principal ones being Corinth, Vicksburg, Chattanooga,, Resaca and Ealeigh. He was honorably discharged August 12, 1865. After the war he resumed farming, which he continues to the present time, residing now on the old homestead. In politics he is a Democrat, and is a good and useful citizen. He was married, in 1867, to Miss Eachel Homer, daughter of Edward and Elizabeth Homer, who was born April 30, 1850. They have two children : Annabel, born in 1868, and Truman Homer, born in 1872.

ELIJAH WILLIS STALLINGS, farmer, was born in Eobb Township, July 26, 1845. He is a representative of one of the pioneer families of the county. He is a son of Willis and Matilda (Harvey) Stallings, the tenth in a family of thirteen children, and is of English descent. His early life was spent on the farm, and his early education was obtained at the district schools. At the age of twenty-one he began life for himseK as a farmer, and has followed that honorable occupation ever since. He removed to where he now lives, about fifteen years ago. He is a successful farmer, and in politics a Democrat. He was married, in 1867, to Miss Ellen Homer, daughter of Edward and Elizabeth Homer, and born July 5, 1847. They have two children: Luella, born in May, 1868, and Milton, born in September 1872. Mr. Stallings has of late years given considerable attention to the raising of short-horn cattle.

GEOEGE W. STALLINGS, a representative of one of the early families of this county, was born in Harmony Township,, September 16, 1846. He is a son of William and Mary A. (Johnson) Stallings, and of English descent. William Stallings was also a native of Posey County and died here in 1879. The boyhood of the subject of this sketch was passed on the farm, and in attendance upon the district schools. At the age of twenty-one, he began life on his own account. In 1869 he became engaged in the milling business in partnership with his father. In 1873 he retired from this business and began his present occupation, that of a farmer, and has now one of the best 175 acre farms in the county. Upon this farm he erected, in 1884, a fine residence forty-two-foot front, with a twenty-eight foot L, costing $2,500. He was married, January 2, 1870, to Miss Mary J. Murphy, of Posey County, Ind. They have six children: Frederick, born November 27, 1870; Mary, born Au^ gust 21, 1872; Ida, November 23, 1874; Elvie, October 22, 1876; Nellie, October 3, 1878, and Ora E., born October 5, 1881. Mr

ELIAS STALLINGS, farmer, was born where he now lives, May 11, 1854, and is a representative of one of the early pioneer families of the county. He is a son of William and Mary A. (Johnson) Stallings. His father was born in this county, and died here in 1876, He was a farmer and miller by occupation. His mother was a native of Kentucky, came to this county when about twenty years of age, and still resides on the old homestead, with her son, the subject of this sketch, who was raised on the farm. At twenty years of age, he began life for himself, working on the farm. In 1874 he went to California, and after remaining there one year, returned to the scenes of his childhood, and to farm life on the old Stallings homestead. Here he has since continued to live and now owns the place, a well improved farm of 175 acres. He is a prosperous farmer, and is now paying attention to raising short-horn cattle. He is a Republican in politics, having cast his first vote for Rutherford B. Hayes. He was married in 1877, to Miss Seraphine Pitts, who was born at Springfield, Posey County, in 1855. Their children are as follows: Arlenia, born July 24, 1879; Malcolm, born May 26, 1881, and Kelly, born August 4, 1883.

THOMAS J. TRUSCOTT, attorney at law, and retired farmer, was born October 17, 1840, in Wabash County, 111. He is a son of George and Margaret (McCleary) Truscott, and is of English descent. His father was born in England, July 17, 1802, and his grandfather, Truscott, was born in England, in 1775. He immigrated to America in 1817, and settled in what was then known as Edwards County, 111. About 1820 he removed from Carlisle to Albion, where he died in February, 1851. The father of Thomas J. left England in 1818, and settled at Carlisle, 111., residing there until about 1820, when he removed to Albion. In 1832 he married Margaret McCleary, of Mc- Cleary's Bluff, 111. In 1853 he removed to Mount Erie, Wayne Co., 111., where he died in July, 1865. The mother of our subject was born in Ohio, in 1809, and died December 12, 1844. Thomas J. Truscott was raised on the farm and attended district school. He has always been a hard student. He taught his first school in 1860, in Wayne County, 111., and continued teach- ing at intervals about ten years. In June, 1861, Mr. Truscott enlisted in Company E, Fortieth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, serving, however, less than a year, being discharged on account ©f physical disability. In 1863 he re-enlisted in Company H, Ninety-first Indiana Volunteer Infantry, of which company he was elected first lieutenant. He was a good soldier and was mustered out at the expiration of his term of service in April, 1864. After the war he resumed agricultural pursuits and continued thus engaged until 1875, when he removed to New Harmony, where he has since resided. He has several fine farms in Lynn Township. In 1860 he began the study of law, and in 1876 was admitted to the Posey County bar. From 1882 to 1884 he was a special examiner in the United States Pension Bureau. He was a representative man of Posey County, and one of her best citizens. In politics he is a Republican. He was married in May, 1864, to Miss Catharine Wilson, of Posey County. They are the parents of these children: Mary, born February 15, 1865; Elizabeth B., born July 5, 1866, and Frederick W., born August 12, 1870. Mr. and Mrs. Truscott are leading members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

HON. JOHN WALZ, maiaufacturer of boots and shoes, was bom in Germany, February 28, 1829. He is a son of Phillip and Mary Ann (Litzler) Walz, both of whom were natives of Germany. The subject of this sketch immigrated from Germany to America in 1851, landing in New York, where he remained' until the following fall. At that time he moved to Cincinnati, Ohio, and in the spring of 1852 removed to New Harmony, where he has since resided. Mr. Walz is by occupation a shoemaker, having learned that trade in his native country. In politics he is a Democrat, having cast his first vote for Franklin Pierce for President in 1852. In 1874 he was elected to represent Posey County in the Legislature of Indiana, by a majority of 1,800, andin 1880 he was re-elected over an Independent Democrat, by a majority of about 500. In this position served to the entire satisfaction of his constituents, and introduced a number of bills which became laws. He is a prominent and leading man, and one of the most popular men in Posey County. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M., and also of the I, O. O. F. Mr. Walz was married, in 1852, to Miss Elizabeth Soil, of Kentucky, by whom he had five chil- dren, and who died in 1871. Mr. Walz was married the second time, in 1875, to Miss Ina Schnee, a native of Posey Cpunty, by whom he has one child: Neva Walz.

PETER WEBER, merchant tailor, one of the prominent citizens of Posey County, a son of George and Catharine (Tanfertshoefer) Weber, was born in Germany, in 1849. Both his parents were Germans by birth. In his early youth he attended the German schools, and at nine years of age began learning the tailor's trade under the direction of his father. At sixteen years of age he was completely master of his trade. He served in the regular army three years, was a soldier in the Franco-Prussian war, and served in a number of the prominent battles of that great conflict of arms. In 1871 he came to America, remained for a time in Philadelphia, and in 1874 came to Posey County, settling in New Harmony where he has since remained. Upon his arrival he engaged in, and has since continued in the merchant tailoring business, of which he has made a success. Being a public-spirited and enterprising man, he is bound to succeed. He left his home at thirteen years of age, and has made his own way in life ever since. In politics, he is a stanch Democrat. He was married, in 1874, to Miss Lone Emge, a native of Cincinnati, Ohio, by whom he has two children: Mary, born in February, 1880, and Henry, born in November, 1881. Mr. Weber is one of the leading citizens of New Harmony, and an honorable gentleman.

JOHN WILKERSON, one of the few living old settlers of Posey County, was born on the Neuse River, North Carolina, in 1816, the son of James and Louisa (Cooper) Wilkerson, of English-Irish descent, and the eldest of six children. His father and mother were born in North Carolina in 1792. His paternal grandfather was a native of Maryland, and a drummer in the Revolutionary war. The Wilkerson family immigrated to Indiana in 1821, and settled in Posey County, where the father of our subject died in 1857, and his mother in 1863. Thus they were among the first settlers of this locality. John Wilkerson was reared on the farm and attended the early schools, his first teacher being Turner Nelson. At the age of twenty-one years, he began life for himself. In 1842 he began farming, and has since continued that occupation, now owning 154 acres of good land; In 1844 he was married to Miss Mary Jackson, a native of Vermont, daughter of James and Margaret (Wood) Jackson. Mrs. Wilkerson came to Posey County in 1841, and is a lady widely known for her many virtues and numerous charitable acts. Six children were born to them, named James L., Josiah S., John B., Fannie, Euark S. and Henry S. Mr. Wilkerson, formerly a Whig, is now a stanch Eepublican, and a good and useful citizen.

LYTLE WYLIE, farmer and stock raiser, was born in Posey County, Ind., in 1829, the son of James and Sophia (Vandiever) Wylie, of Scotch-French origin. Lytle is the eldest of five children. His father was a Kentuckian, came to Posey County, Ind., at an early day, settled in Harmony Township, and here lived until his death in 1838. His mother was born in Kentucky in 1810, and now resides in Harmony Township. Lytle Wylie was reared on the farm, and in 1850 began for himself. In 1852 he crossed the plains by ox-team, to California, and engaged in milling, remaining in that State until 1855. After that time he began farming, and has ever since continued, now owning 304 acres of good land. In 1880 he bought what is known as the Filligim farm. He was married, in 1864, to Louisa Burbick, a native of Posey County, Ind., and by her is the father of four children, named Frederick B., Mary E., Morris C. and Ethel. In 1860 Mr. Wylie was made a member of the I. O. O. F. He is a Democrat, and a leading citizen of his township.

Source changes here: from History of Posey County, Indiana, by Leffel, John C., B, published 1913; 242 words in this source stream.

Harmony Township

interwoven with the Rapp and Owen communities as to be difficult to separate. The Rappites owned and settled the greater part of the township.

The following were the early land entries : The Rapps entered most of their lands in 1825. William Rogers entered lands in 1815; Ignatius Leavitt in 1814, and John Phillips in 181 1. Robert Allen entered the lands owned by him in 1814; William Stallings in 1816, and Mr. Allen in 1809. All these were entered at the land office at Vincennes.

It is claimed by some that George Rapp and his associates built the first grist mill in the county, but this is denied, and it has been stated on good authority that John Warrick built a mill on the cut-off at New Harmony in the year 1812, which was in operation for some time, but was sold to the Rappites who remodeled it. The first home-made flour was manufactured at this mill, the honor falling to the peculiar society which located at Harmonic in 1814 and 1815. The mill was run by water power.

The Cut-off, as the name indicates, is a body of land cut off from the mainland by an arm of the river. It consists of about 2,000 acres of very rich soil. It was occupied by the Rappites in the early days and yielded them immense harvests. The cut-off chute afforded an excellent site for water power, of which they took advantage.