Harrison Township

Harrison Township

Harrison is situated in the northwestern part of the county, and embraces all of Township 21 north, of Range 9 east, and six sections of Township 21 north, Range 8 east, the territory included within these limits amounting, in the aggregate, to 26,880 acres.

The soil, in the vicinity of the streams, is composed of clay, with a liberal admixture of sand; and this feature is noticeable throughout the township, sand being present everywhere. In those localities remote from the creeks, the body of the soil is a rich black loam, and the presence of sand is almost as abundant as near the water-courses.

Big Kill Buck Creek is the principal stream of the township, flowing from the northeast. to the southwest corner, and draining a large and fertile scope of land. Jake's Creek flows west through the southern part of the township, forming a confluence with Buck Creek in Section 29.

Along the banks of these streams, the land is broken into gentle hills, and in other localities it is of an undulating nature. There are but few places in the township where the land is level or flat. A fine natural drainage is afforded by the character of the surface, and the extensive systems of ditches which have been necessary in townships less favored by nature, are not a feature here, although there are several localities in which artificial drainage has been resorted to with good results.

Early Settlement

The early history of Harrison is so closely interwoven with that of Mount Pleasant, that it is difficult to separate and assign the events to their proper localities. Little or no note was taken of them as they happened, and the participants in the earlier scenes have nearly all passed away. No records have been kept, and no one has been found who was willing to give verbal testimony with the assurance of positive accuracy, especially as regards dates.

It is stated by Oliver P. Jones that the first white man who came to reside permanently in the township, and with the usual purpose of the pioneer in view, was Isaac Adamson. As no earlier entry of land is shown by the tract-book, he is undoubtedly entitled to the honor of priority in the chronicle of the early sottlement. Isaac Jones, the father of Oliver P., had visited this locality in quest of a location at an earlier date, and had selected the very tract entered by Adamson. This was early in 1832, and he returned to his home in Clinton County, Ohio, never doubting that he could come back at will and occupy the land he had selected. With this view of the case, he took no legal measures to hold it, and, when he returned in the fall of that year, he found that Adamson had entered it in the meantime, and had erected a cabin, in which he was living with his family.

In the fall of 1832, Mr. Jones came with his family, and entered a tract of land at the western extremity of the township, and lying partially in Madison County. He erected his cabin upon that portion lying in Madison County, and, after its completion, returned to Ohio, leaving his son, Oliver P., with two sisters, at the home in the wilderness. During his absence, his son planted a crop, and, in the spring of 1833, the father returned and entered into the labor of clearing his land. But, in the following fall, he died. About three years later, the family removed to the land where Oliver P. now resides, and which had been entered for him by his father in October, 1833. One by one the children married and settled in other places, and Oliver was left to oecupy the farm alone. In 1843, he married Sarah Dillon, daughter of one of the pioneers of Madison County. She died in 1844, and, in 1847, he married Miss J. C. McNeer, his present companion.

Mr. Adamson had lived in his cabin but a short time when the men of the neighborhood assembled at the land of Archibald Parker, for whom they were to erect a log house. Mr. Adamson managed one corner of the structure, and, as it was a cold, sleety day, the logs gradually became covered with ice. At an unguarded moment, he slipped and fell to the ground. Although he felt no ill effect at the time, it was believed that his death was traceable to the fall; for, when'he started home at nightfall, he complained of a pain in the side, which, later in the evening, developed into something like pleurisy, and, within.a few days, he died. Archibald Parker, whose house they were erecting on this occasion, was one of the pioneers of Harrison, as well as Mount Pleasant. He settled near Yorktown, on White River, in 1828, where he rented the land entered by Samuel Bell. From there he removed to the village of Yorktown, and, at a later date, to the eastern part of Madison County, where he purchased and improved eighty acres of land. In 1833, he entered a tract of land in Section 36, and here began the labor of clearing the farm now owned by William Lee.

Mr. Parker was born in North Carolina in 1794, and removed to South Carolina when quite young. In 1811, at the age of seventeen years, he removed to Fayette County, Indiana. He served in the war of 1812, and, while still a resident of Fayette County, married Elizabeth Patton. At the time of his settlement in Delaware County, he had three children, of whom his son John is the only survivor.

He was a man of strong character, and was never behind his neighbors in the matter of improvement. It was he who presented the petition praying for the organization of this township, and by him the name was conferred, in honor of the " hero of Tippecanoe."

He lived at his farm for about twelve years, at the end of which time he sold out to Luke Wright, and purchased another farm in Madison County, Indiana. Several years later, he again sold out, and removed to the State of Iowa, where he died in 1878.

In 1833, Carve... Conner came to the township and settled in Section 28, where he still resides. He has always been recognized as a good citizen, and has borne his full share in the settlement and improvement of the township.

William Patton came to the township in the same year, and settled upon a tract of land adjoining Mr. Conner. At the first township election, he was chosen one of the Justices of the Peace, and served five years.

For several years, the township settled slowly, and, as late as 1837, the arrival of new settlers was marked by as much interest as at an earlier date. Enoch Garner came with his family in that year, and it is said by his son, Vincent, that they were as much alone, to all appearance, as if they were the only settlers of the township. Their nearest neighbor was Charles Stout, who lived about two miles southeast, while Samuel Brady lived three miles north, and Job Garner three miles east. Mr. Garner entered a part of Section 13, Township 21, Range 8,

In the vicinity of Jake's Creek, Job Garner, Henry Garner, James Garner, William Patton, and Solomon and Gabriel Williams, were early settlers.

The following record from the tract-book furnishes reliable data as to the early settlers, showing by whom the lands in the various sections were purchased, and the date of entry. In Township 21 north, Range 8 east, the lands were purchased by the following-named persons:

In the foregoing, we have probably enumerated some who were not actual settlers in the township, although land-owners; but, as a great difficulty was experienced in verifying the list, and separating the speculators from the settlers, it was deemed prudent to reproduce it in full, with this explanation.

In Township 21 north, Range 9 east, only the names of actual settlers are given, although large tracts of land were purchased here by capitalists, or speculators, particularly in Sections 1,6, 11, 14, 15 and 26.

ROADS. During the earlier days of the settlement, there were no roads, excepting those cut out by pioneers on their way through the trackless forests to the locations they had selected for homes. These, however, were lost in the surrounding woodlands, and suffered to be obscured by the underbrush, as soon as they had served their purpose, excepting in a few instances, where "neighborhood roads" were subsequently laid out on routes thus opened. The Delphi and Muncie State road was probably the first public highway laid out with any regard to accuracy. This was surveyed by authority and at the expense of the State, and its route through the wilderness was preserved by the surveyors' cutting notches in the trees on either side. It was then left: for the Supervisors and their assistants in each district to cut it out and improve it. A number of years elapsed between the date of its location and the time when it was cleared and opened for travel, as Vincent Garner states that he was quite a large boy when this was done, and that the road was "blazed" when his father first settled in the township.

A State road was surveyed from Jonesboro, in Grant County, to Chesterfield, in Madison County, shortly after the Delphi road was located, and was opened and improved by the Supervisors and their assistants.

There are no records from which can be ascertained the dates at which these roads were surveyed, and personal recollections fail to establish them.

From time to time, the County Commissioners appointed Viewers to locate roads at various places in the township, and, at a still later date, the records of the Board of Township Trustees show the routes of others, located in response to petitions presented by citizens of the township. They were all routes of minor importance, yet serving a good purpose in the public interest of the township.

Long before the population of Harrison had grown to any considerable numbers, there were flouring-mills in successful operation, both at Muncie and in Madison County, so that the problem of obtaining meal for bread was not so serious as in the earlier settlements; but a journey "to mill" was still an inconvenient trip, in view of the bad roads over which it was necessary to travel, and an enterprising citizen of Harrison conceived a project which was intended to overcome the difficulty as far as possible. This man was Charles Stout, and his mill was about as crude as one could imagine. There were two stones, to the top one of which was attached a handle. This was turned by the customers who brought corn to be ground, and, as they did the work, the proprietor never charged any toll. A strong man, with a liberal allowance of patience, could grind about a bushel of meal during the day. While this was the only mill in the township, it was well patronized - the citizens halting between two opinions - whether to go to Muncie or elsewhere to mill, usually choosing this as the least of two evils. It remained in existence for a few years, when Samuel McCune erected a mill at his farm. This was supplied with the best machinery that could be obtained at that day, and was operated by horses attached to levers, and traveling in a circle. It was used principally for grinding corn, manufacturing from fifty to sixty bushels of meal per day.

In the fall of 1842, Joshua Howell erected a mill on the banks of Big Kill Buck Creek, about a mile and a half below Bethel, in which he had a run of buhrs for grinding corn and supplying the neighborhood with meal. This was one of the primitive contrivances so often found in new settlements, and was only designed to subserve a baoe: (2 ary purpose.

In the year 1842, Jesse Stout erected a small distillery on the property of Col. Smith, in the southwest corner of Section 29. The demand for the article he manufactured was so great that it was purchased by his patrons, as fast as it could be made. They bought it red-hot from the still, and cooled it in tin cups at the neighboring creek. He kept his establishment in operation day and night, and still was not able to keep up with the demand, as the capacity of the still was but three gallons per day. Subsequnet legislation regarding the manufacture and sale of liquor caused him to abandon the enterprise. Stout was a local preacher of the Baptist persuasion, and, between the labors of his distillery, it is said, he would preach and exhort with great power and force.

Organization

The earlier volumes of the County Commissioners' records have been destroyed, and the date of organization cannot be ascertained. It is stated, however, by John Parker, that. the first election was held in the spring of 1834, at the house of Job Garner, and it is probable that the act erecting this into a separate civil township was passed by the Commissioners only a short time previously.

At this election, William Patton and Jesse Stout were chosen Jus tices of the Peace. They served five years, and Jefferson Horine and William Miller were elected as their successors for a term of the same length. John Parker and Jacob W. Miller were elected after the expiration of that term, and Mr. Parker was re-elected from time to time during a period of fourteen years. Mr. Miller served five years, and was succeeded by Benjamin Newhouse. Martin Langdon and James Snodgrass were elected as the successors of Messrs. Parker and Miller. Myr. Snodgrass resigned before the expiration of the term for which he was elected, and Joseph Shephard was chosen to fill the vacancy. John W. Gray and Lee Scott were the Justices next elected. Mr. Gray was succeeded by Isaiah Gayman, who still occupies the office. Lee Scott is also serving in this capacity, having been re-elected.

Three Trustees were chosen at the first election, but neither their names nor the names of their successors can be obtained with sufficient accuracy to warrant their insertion here. The records of this board cannot be found, and it is probable, as stated by an old resident of the township, that the minutes of their meetings were kept on scraps of paper, which, during the intervening years, have been lost, and much valuable information bearing upon the organization of the township has passed beyond recall.

The history of public education in this township varies but slightly from that of other pioneer settlements. Winter schools were taught at irregular intervals, by men who came with no other cértificate of ability than their own recommendations; and little was required of them beyond a knowledge of reading, writing and arithmetic, as far as the "rule of three." Sometimes the settlers were fortunate enough to secure the services of a talented man, but, in general, their teachers were not supe- - rior to the average pedagogue of early days. Itis a fact very much to the credit of these pioneers that, from their scanty means, they so cheerfully contributed the funds to sustain schools, and recognized the importance of educating their children to the extent of the limited advantages offered in the wilderness, and thus early founding and encouraging a public institution, which ultimately developed into the perfection of the free-school system of to-day.

Perhaps the first school in the township was that which was conducted at a cabin on the farm of Job Garner, in the winter of 1834 - 35. This cabin was erected especially for a schoolhouse, and was used for that purpose for a number of years consecutively. During the same winter, a school was taught at the farm of Archibald Parker, in a cabin which had formerly been occupied by his son-in-law, but deserted prior to its occupation for school purposes.

For a number of years thereafter, schools were taught whenever a cabin and a teacher could be obtained, and the citizens whose children attended paid a tuition fee of $1.25 to $1.50 per capita. A few years later, the revenues derived from the sale of lands in tho school section were appropriated to the maintenance of the schools; but this fund was nearly always exhausted before the term was half finished, in which event it was usual for the parents of the scholars to make up the deficiency from their own purses. In one instance, this deficiency, amounting to $45, was made up by two residents of the township, while there were many others whose children shared the benefits of the school. Log schoolhouses were erected in various portions of the township as the increasing population required, and districts were established. These remained nearly as at first described, and several of the log inaugurated, and were accordingly converted into free schools under the provisions of that act. An improvement in the public educational system was at,once apparent, and time has added to the efficiency of the institution in the employment of better teachers, until it stood clothed in all the perfectness that characterizes it to-day. There are no oraded schools in the township, but in each of the districts there is a substantial building, in which the essential branches of an English education are taught by competent instructors.

"Number of white pupils admitted within the year, 764; average attendance, 382; length of school in days, 140; number of white teachers employed, 12; average compensation of teachers per day - aumale, $1.723; female, $1.384; number of brick schoolhouses in township, 5; number of frame schoolhouses in township, 7; estimated value of schoolhouses, grounds, ete., $6,000; estimated value of school apparatus, $200.

Early Merchants And Physicians

In the year 1851, Jacob W. Miller completed a small brick storeroom adjoining his residence on the old Job Garner farm, and, in September of that year, went to Cincinnati, Ohio, and purchased a stock of merchandise, consisting of dry goods and groceries, which he hauled to his store in three wagons. He conducted a good trade here, renewing his stock from year to year until about 1855, when he sold the remnant of his stock to William Moore. During this time, he also served as Postmaster. Mr. Moore established himself at the village of Bethel, where he continued in trade about a year, and was succeeded by James K. Trimble, to whom Mr. Miller had the office of Postmaster transferred. Mr. Trimble sold his stock to Charles Kirk two or three years later, who continued to sell goods for several years longer. The office of Postmaster passed to Dr. Samuel E. Mitchell, the principal physician at that period, 3

During the earlier years of the settlement, there were a number of self-constituted physicians, but none whose qualifications would fairly entitle them to that hame, until the arrival of Dr. Samuel KE. Mitchell, in 1853 or 1854. He settled at the village of Bethel, where he practiced successfully until his decease. Dr. William J. Morgan settled at Bethel in 1867, continuing to practice there until 1875, when he removed to Gilman, Madison Co., Ind. Dr. Milton Ricks js the only practicing physician in the township at this time (Nov ember, 1880).

nations whose ministers visited the settlement, but more regularly by the Christian Friends, who had the only organized society. This socje-

Olive Chapel United Brethren Church - This church was erected in 1873, on land donated by Allen Benadum. It is a frame house, 38x25 feet, and cost, when completed, $1,200. The class was organized in 1864, and held its meetings at Schoolhouse No. 2 until the church was erected. 'The original members of the class were Jonathan Rector, Mary Rector, Scott Richardson and wife, Mrs. Martha Clevinger, James Rector, Amanda Rector, and two whose names have been forgotten. Rey- Arthur Rector was the first Pastor; Jonathan Rector, Class-leader; and Scott Richardson, Steward. Since organization, stated circuit preaching has been held in the afternoon of every third Sunday, and classmeeting once every two weeks.

Sunday school has been regularly held during the summer ever since the organization of the church: and, since 1873, it has been held throughout the year. The present number of scholars attending varies from twenty to forty. .

The church has been blessed with a goodly membership during its existence, and has enjoyed frequent revival seasons, the most interesting of which took place in the latter part of 1879 and the early part of 1880, resulting in a large accession to the membership, which, at this time, consists of sixty persons.

The Pastors who have served this church are Revs. Alexander Carroll, Riley MeVickers, Thomas Bell, Arthur Rector, William Mosher, T. J. Halstead, William Hall and Milo Bailey.

On the farm of Job Garner, a village was platted, to which the proprietor gave the name of " Harrison." It was never a very pretentious village, however, and, when Jacob W. Miller purchased the Garner farm, he vacated the lots, and converted the town plat into a farm.

Population

The United States Census of 1850 states the population of Harrison as 798 at that time. Ten years later, it was 1,143. In 1870, there was a total population of 1,400, of whom 1,393 were native Americans, and ' of foreign birth. The census returns for 1880 show a population of 1,785.

Jacob W. Miller

was born November 20, 1816, at Bethlehem, Stark Go., Ohio. His father, Jacob Miller, was a native of Jefferson County, Pennsylvania, and was engaged in transporting goods from Philadelphia, Baltimore and Pittsburgh, to Canton, Cleveland, and other points in Ohio, by the old-fashioned " Pennsylvania wagon," drawn by four, six and eight horses. He owned from two to three of these wagons, and continued this line of employment for a number of years after locating in Ohio. When the subject of this biography was about twelve years of age, his father left Bethlehem and settled in Pike Township, in the same county, where he devoted his time to agricultural pursuits, still continuing the transportation business. He continued to reside in Pike Township until his death, which occurred about the year 1855. His family consisted of seven boys and seven girls, named, respectively, John, David, William, Jacob W., Abraham, Isaac, Solomon, Hannah, Catherine, Elizabeth, Harriet, Nancy, Mary and Susan.

At about the age of nineteen, Jacob W., the subject of this sketch, became impressed with a desire to see more of the world and earn his own living. After working for a time in Stark and Wayne Counties, Ohio, he accepted employment as a boatman on the Ohio & Erie Canal, running from Cleveland to Portsmouth, Ohio - a distance of 310 miles. This employment proved pleasanter, as well as more profitable, than farm labor, and enabled him to see more of the world. During the winter seasons, while the canal was frozen over, he was engaged on the Ohio, Mississippi and Illinois Rivers, having imbibed that peculiar love for the water which comes to every one who has followed the boatman's life, and amounts almost to a fascination. for five years, he was engaged in eanal-boat and steam-boat life, or until the winter of 1839. At that time, work was begun upon the Indianapolis & Madison Railroad - the first railroad ever built in Indiana. He left the Ohio River at Madison, Ind., and, in company with some former associates, accepted employment in clearing a route through the wilderness for the track of this road. In February, 1840, he started on foot to Delaware County, from the scene of his employment in the southern part of this State. Between him and his destination there intervened 135 miles, over which there were no public conveyances, and but few public roads leading in the proper direction, so his route was necessarily through a dismal, sparsely settled region, over which he plowed his lonely way, often intercepted by ponds and swamps, which he was compelled to circumnayigate, not being able to wade through them. _He found food and shelter in the few lonely cabins he met on the way, and, late in February, 1840, reached the home of his brother William, in Harrison Township, Delaware County, Indiana, tired and almost exhausted from his long walk. But he showed his true spirit, after resting a few days, by going to work in good earnest, and, in the course of time, became so well satisfied with his new position that he determined 'to make Delaware County his future home. In August, 1840, he was wedded to a lady who had been one of his friends in childhood - Miss Harriet Worley. She came to this county from Stark County, Ohio, in 1839. After his marriage, he went to reside with his wife and mother-in-law, on the farm entered and formerly occupied by Job Garner, and purchased in 1839 by his father-in-law, Thomas Worley. On this farm, Mr. Garner laid out the town plat of Harrison, a village whose existence was only nominal, and which was vacated by Mr. Miller and converted into a farm. Here, by industry and economy, Mr. Miller accumulated a comfortable sum of money, which he invested in several tracts of land adjoining the original farm, thereby increasing its dimensions to 580 acres. At various times subsequently, he purchased land in other parts of the county, until his possessions in real estate aggregated 1,100 acres, clear of all incumbrances. In the outstart, he made it a rule never to incur any obligation that he could not pay on demand, and this has been the secret of his success. In addition to farming, he was extensively engaged in live-stock speculations, buying all the hogs, cattle and horses within his reach, and driving them to market. In the purchase and sale of horses, he was almost alone. There was no way of getting them to market except by driving them overland, and, in view of this fact, there were few horse-buyers in this region, and none of the residents ventured to deal in this branch of the live-stock business. With him horses were favorites, and some among those he owned were He found his markets at Chicago, and in the States of Mich- In 1851, he made a trip to Cincinnati, Ohio, where he purchased a stock of merchandise, and, hauling it to his home in wagons, opened the first store in Harrison Township. This venture, like the others in which he had been engaged, turned out well, and resulted in a fair profit to himself. He continued the business successfully for about four years, and, at the end of that time, sold his stock and retired from mercantile life. In 1868, he became associated with the Wrought-Iron Bridge Company, of Canton, Ohio, and was elected President of the company. While associated with this enterprise, he traveled extensively in the interest of the business, having all the States west of Ohio as his territory, and contracting and constructing a number of bridges in the various States which he visited.

In 1872, he sold his stock and withdrew from the business, having, two years previously, embarked in the retail grocery trade at Muncie, where he conducted a satisfactory and Incrative business. Subsequently, he engaged in the sale of agricultural implements at Muncie, which was very successful for about two years. While engaged in the bridge business, he rented his farm and brought his family to town; but, after engaging in the agricultural business, the family returned to the farm, the management of which claimed a large share of his attention. In the meantime, the business of his house at Muncie began to decline, and the financial crisis of 1873 resulted disastrously to its interests. In order to place himself in his old position, and have it to say that he owed no man more than he could pay on demand, he sacrificed 400 acres of his estate. This was the first enterprise, among all in which he had been engaged, that had resulted otherwise than favorably; and, had he been able to give it his personal supervision, the result would, undoubt- . edly, have been different. He next assumed the management of a store which he had erected in 1875, on the La Fayette, Muncie & Bloomington Railway, about ten miles west of Muncie, in which he is still engaged.

Mr. Miller is one of a class of men who are rapidly passing away from this region. In newer States they may still exist, but our own pioneers have fulfilled their mission, and those who, like him, remain to witness the improvements that have followed their advent into the wil- He possesses the character- His early educaderness are reminders of a time gone by. istics that almost invariably distinguish that class. tional advantages being limited, he learned at an early age that whatever knowledge he gained must be the result of his own application; and, by travel and observation, he has acquired a practical knowledge of men and the world that makes up in value what it lacks in a scholastic sense. Strong and self-reliant, he has fought his battles with the world bravely, and has "come off more than conqueror." From the time he earned his first dollar, he has always had money, and has always so managed that his expenses should be less than his earnings; and his financial standing to-day is the result of his good management. It is true that nearly every enterprise in which he has engaged has been productive of a handsome remuneration to him; and it is equally true that, in all his transactions, he has been governed by a strict sense of honor, and never took a mean advantage in trade, or acquired a dollar about which there was a scintilla of dishonesty. Among all who know him, he is recognized as a man of unimpeachable integrity, and possesses the confidence and esteem of all with whom he has been associated.

With the true spirit of the pioneer, he has ever been a friend to public improvements, and has contributed generously to every public enterprise that was inaugurated in the interest of this county. He was the prime mover in the construction of the Muncie & Bethel Turnpike, and was the first President of that corporation, in which capacity he has served ever since, with a few intermissions. In politics, as in all things else, he is guided by his own perception of the right. He has acted with the Democratic party for a number of years, and, while he has never aspired to official recognition at the hands of his party, he has always been a zealous laborer in its ranks, wielding an influence by no means inconsiderable.

In his battle with the world and his road to fortune, he has been | cheered by the devoted wife whose companionship he still enjoys. Their children are named respectively, Jefferson, Harrison, Mary, Robert O., Ira, Emma, Carlton B. and Oliver.

Source changes here: from A Portrait and Biographical Record of Delaware County, Indiana :, published 1894; 9,025 words in this source stream.

Harrison Township

His marriage with Miss Susan Gregory, daughter of John and Nancy (Shideler) Gregory, took place in 1845. Mrs. Wood was one of a family of eleven children, only one of whom, besides herself, is living, namely, Thomas Gregory. The names of those deceased, as far as can be remembered, are as follows; Mary P., Sarah, Susannah, Elizabeth, Jane, John S., and Noble; the last named killed while serving this country in the late war. The father of these children died January 29, 1843 and the mother departed this life April 2, 1887. Mrs. Wood resides on the home farm, which she manages very successfully, and is an estimable Christian lady, highly respected in the community. Never having had any children of her own, she is now raising a niece. Miss Nettie Gregory, daughter of Thomas and Jennie Gregory, whom she took at the age of seven years.

ENJAMIN BARCLAY. - All of the people of Harrison township know Benjamin Barclay, the subject of this sketch, and know him favorably. He was born May 4, 1828, in Licking county, Ohio, being the son of James and Elizabeth (German) Barclay. The father was born in 1804 in Virginia, and the mother in Maryland. The father came to Licking county when but a boy with his parents, and spent the greater part of his life in farming. In politics he was a democrat of the Jackson school. He and his wife were members of the Methodist church.

Benjamin Barclay lived with his parents until the age of eighteen, when he was apprenticed to the trade of a blacksmith, working at this for tv/o years for his board and clothing. After this he followed his trade for two years and then was a farmer for one year. At this time he came to Indiana and located in Henry county, following his trade, after which he came to this county and bought eighty' acres of land in the northwest corner of Harrison township. Here he built a shop and worked at his trade, farming at the same time for eighteen years. At this time our subject lives on a farm in this township, and still owns the original acres upon which he settled. Mr. Barclay was married November i, 1849, to Miss Elizabeth Mclnturf. His wife was born July 4, 1831, and died January 25, 1865. She was the daughter of Frederick and Anna (Myers) Mclnturf, they being natives of Ohio, her father following the occupation of a farmer. Mrs. Barclay, the wife of our subject, was a devoted member of the Methodist church. By this marriage our subject was the father of six children, namely: Salathiel, deceased; Louisa, Susannah, Sarah, Netta, and James Leonidas.

taking for his wife the daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Shafer) Williamson; her father being a native of New Jerse}', where he w'as born in 1790, and her mother was born in Germany in 1802, the latter came to this country with her parents when but a child. The father of Mrs. Barclay came to Scioto county, Ohio, where he owned a fine farm at the time of his death, which occurred in 1849. His wife survived him until the year 1880, when she died in the faith of the Methodist church, in which she had lived all her days. The second wife of Mr. Barclay was the widow of W. F. Nottingham, who was a native of Ohio and came to this state when but a child. He was born in 1828, and died in 1880. He was married to the present Mrs. Barclay August 4, 1850, and by this marriage Mrs. Barclay had four children, namely; Joseph, deceased; George, deceased; John; and Sarah Catherine, deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Barclay are both consistent members of the Methodist church. Our subject is devoted to the principles of the democratic party, and heartily supports its candidates.

EV. GEORGE BOXELL. - Harrison township can point to more than one of her citizens with pride, for not only have they fulfilled all the requirements of private life, but when occasion demanded have assumed the duties of public office in such a manner as to call forth the admiration of their constituents. Such a man is George Boxell, one of the prominent farmers of the township, now serving as township trustee. Mr. Boxell was born January 16, 1833, in the state of Virginia, a son of Joseph and Elenor (Shamlin) Boxell, natives of Virginia and Ireland, respectfully. Mrs. Boxell came to this country v.''hen still young. When the subject was still a boy, the family removed to Boone county, Ohio, and in 1835 to Grant county, Ind. The family name of Boxell is an old one, the ancestral record reaching back many generations to English progenitors.

George Boxell remained with his parents until he reached his majority, when he engaged in teaching for some three years in Grant county, after which he began to preach, riding what was known as the Jonesborough circuit for a number of years. During his ministry he was greatly beloved and the good he did in this capacity can not be over estimated. At present Mr. Boxell is the owner of eighty acres of choice land in Harrison township, where he is greatly respected by the entire community. Mr. Boxell's first marriage was solemnized January 16, 1858, with Miss Rhoda McKever, daughter of Noah and Elizabeth McKever, natives of Ohio. Mrs. Boxell died January 10, 1880, and July 26, 1882, Mr. Boxell was married again, his second choice being Miss Emma Thompson, who was born October 18, 1862. By this last marriage one child, Estella, has been born. It is a remarkable fact, and but an indication of the popularity of Mr. Boxell, that, at the time of his election to his present office, he received a large majority over the republican candidate, although he had made no canvass, which fact attests his great popularity with the people, irrespective of party affiliation. He is a member of the democratic party. In the language of David Hill, of N. Y. , "I am a democrat." He is a minister of the Methodist Protestant church and for thirty-five years he has been preaching. He has preached 1,308 funeral sermons. He has been prominent in church work.

IRAM BRANSON is a man approaching seventy years, and has spent his life in such a manner as to command the respect of his neighbors, and meet with the approval of his conscience. He was born in Highland county, Ohio, May 4, 1825; being the son of Elizabeth and Robert Branson; the former was born in North Caaolina, in 1798, and the latter was born in Virginia in 1802. Robert Branson settled in Highland county, Ohio, with his grandfather when a boy, going there on a pack horse. He was one of the first settlers of Henry county,

Ind., reaching there in 1827. In the spring of 1840 he came to Delaware county, Ind., where he engaged in farming until his death, which took place in 1852, Hiram Branson remained at home until his marriage, which occurred July 27, 1848; his wife being Miss Charlotte Jackson, daughter of Jesse and Mary Jackson, both natives of Tennessee. Mr. Branson had born to him by this marriage the following children: Rufus, Isaac, Sarah, NoahC. , John, Jerry S., Martin, Phebe Jane and Oliver P. Mr. Branson married again January 20, 1865, his choice being the widow of Wilson Lacy; her first husband being a native of Tennessee and a farmer. This wife was called away from earth in August, 1877; having borne Mr. Branson five children, as follows: Frances, Martha, George, Cynthia Ann, and Cora May, deceased. Mr. Branson married a third time, September 27, 1878, the maiden name of his wife being Susanna Burgess, the widow of Jacob Jetmore. By this wife there was one child, Clara Ellen. He and his wife are both members of the German Baptist church.

Mr. Branson enlisted during the war in company B, One Hundred and Forty-seventh Indiana regiment, for one year, or during the war. This was in February, 1865, and he returned home May 22 of that year, having been in no battle. Our subject was a whig, after which he became a republican, and is now a prohibitionist.

J. H. Branson was born in Stony Creek township, Henry county, Ind., February 10, 1831, and lived with his parents until he was of age, after which he worked for his father two years on the farm, and then went to California. There he remained two years engaged in mining, which proved profitable; then he returned to this township and bought eighty acres of land, which is his present farm, and is under good cultivation. He was united in marriage July 6, 1856, to Miss Mary Fox, daughter of Asa and Mary Fox; her mother being a native of Connecticut, and her father of Pennsylvania.

The father, when a young man, located in Kentucky, where he remained thirty years, and then came to Harrison township. The mother of the wife of our subject was a member of the Methodist church.

Ann, Ellen Martha, George W., Premma, William, deceased, Joseph, William Jehoshaphat, deceased, Edward J. , Asa deceased. Flora Belle and l\fary Minnie. In politics Mr. Branson was a whig until the republican party came into existence, since which time he has been an active member of that party. He is a member in good standing of the Christian church, and is a worthy and good citizen.

JOSEPH S. BROWN. - No man is so independent as the farmer. To him the residents of the great cities look for theproducts of the soil, while he, if he wish, can be entirely independent of their toil. After many years devoted to the tilling of the soil, the subject of this sketch, Joseph S. Brown, is ready to agree that, although the life of a farmer be full of toil and hardships, yet on the whole it is a very pleasant one. Mr. Brown was born March 20, 1819, in the state of Pennsylvania, son of John and Elizabeth (Staup) Brown, both natives of Pennsylvania, of German descent. In 1834 the family removed to Ohio, settling in Henry county. Mr. Brown, Sr., remained in Henry county until the time of his death, engaged in coopering, carpentering and farming.

until he became of age, when he rented a farm in Clinton county, Ohio, where he remained until 1853, at which date he removed to Delaware county, Ind. , and purchased forty acres of land, to which he later added forty acres, making eighty acres in all. This farm was a wild, uncultivated one, but Mr. Brown reclaimed it from a wilderness and brought it to its present state of cultivation. Mr. Brown was married in 1841, to Mrs. Mary (Jones) Taylor, born in 1809, widow of James Taylor, and daughter of William and Nancy Jones. Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Brown, namely: John, deceased; William Henry; Eliza Jane, wife of William Downing, and James H., deceased. Mrs. Brown died in 1891, and her remains rest in Nottingham cemetery. She died in the faith of the Christian church, of which body her husband has been for years a faithful member. In politics Mr. Brown supports the principles enunciated by the democratic party. In every particular he has fulfilled all the duties required of him in every walk of life to which he has been called, and justly meriis the esteem in which he is held by his neighbors and friends throughout Harrison and other townships.

ILLIAM H. COFFIN. - Among the prosperous farmers of Harrison township whose name his friends will greet in this volume with pleasure, is the subject of the present notice. He was born in this township, January 20, 1847, 3. son of Isaac and Mary (Reed) Coffin, the former a native of Hamilton county, Ohio, born there November 18, 1821, a son of Samuel and Rachel Coffin, natives of Massachusetts and of Kentucky. Samuel Coffin was a stone mason and plasterer by trade. He came to this state and located in Fayette county, in 1833, on 100 acres of land there, but six years later he came to Delaware county and bought the 160 acres now owned by his son. He died in 1855 and his wife then removed to Wayne county where her life ended ten years later. They had both been members of the Baptist church. Isaac Coffin lived with his parents until he was of age, and then engaged to work, for his father, by the month, for a few years, at which time he bought a farm of eighty-five acres of his father. For one year he lived in Butler county, Ohio, since which time he has lived on his present farm engaged in agricultural pursuits. In 1841 he married Mary Doty, the widow of Samuel Doty, who had formerly been a Reed. Her death occurred November 15, 1892, and her remains rest in Bethel cemetery in Harrison township. For forty years both she and husband were members of the United Brethern church. They had two children, William Henry, and Rachel, the wife of William Brown.

William H. Coffin was reared on the home farm and remained during his minority with pai'ents. He learned the carpenter trade and worked at that for two years, following which he rented a farm of Mr. Joseph Quick for two years, and then moved to Grant county where he was engaged in the manufacture of tile for two years. He then moved to his present farm, having since resided in Harrison township. He has a fine place here, and is a man much esteemed in this locality. For the past four years he has held the office of justice of the peace. Politically, he is a republican. Mr. Coffin was married November 22, 1873, to Miss Mary Ann Needier, daughter of George and Lydia (Cunningham) Needier, he a native of Ohio, born in May, 1832, and she in the same year, November 20, in the state of Virginia. Mrs. Coffin accompanied her parents to Grant county when three years of age, and Mr. Needier is still a resident of that county, where he is engaged in farming. The mother died a year ago. Both parents were members of the Methodist church, and Mr. Needier is a republican of that county, known as a man of worth and sagacity. Mr. and Mrs. Coffin are the parents of the following children. Adam C. , Nora Josephine, deceased; James Henry, Lydia Margaret, deceased; John, deceased; Martha R. , Walter Earl, and Osa Edna, deceased. Mr. Coffin formerly voted the republican ticket, but in late years his views of public questions have undergone a change, and he now belongs to the people's party. He is a man who is highly respected wherever known.

eNOCH DRUMM, an enterprising citizen of Harrison township, Delaware county, Ind. , was born in the count}^ of Muskingum, Ohio, on the loth day of June, 1840, son of Peter and Clasissa (Lake) Drumm. Paternally, Mr. Drumm is descended from German ancestry, and his father was for many years a farmer and manufacturer of stone ware in the above county and state. Mr. Drumm's boyhood days were spent on the farm much the same as the majority of country lads and from the age of twelve his time was alternately devoted to tilling the soil and working in the stoneware factory in the summer and attending the district schools in the winter season. In his twentieth year Mr. Drumm came to Muncie, Ind., near which city he found employment as a farm laborer, and later he taught in the public schools for a limited period. On the 21st day of August, 1861, he married Margaret Gibson, daughter of Andrew and Rebecca Gibson, of Delaware county, and from that time until April, 1867, lived in Monroe township. He then moved to his present beautiful farm in Harrison township, where he has since resided, and he now ranks among the most energetic and thrifty agriculturists in the county of Delaware. Mrs. Margaret Drumm bore her husband the following children: Emanuel, Anderson, Peter Emsley, Marion, Howard, Clara R. and Enoch Orvil. Of these children Peter E. and Anderson preceded their mother to the grave, and on the 24th day of April, 1879, she was summoned to her final rest, leaving a child twenty-two days old, Enoch O., who died shortly thereafter. Left with a family of dependent children on his hands, l\Ir. Drumm managed to keep them all together and look after their interests as only an indulgent father could have done, until 1881, on October 29 of which year he married Mrs. Ann E. (Kern) Gough, who proved to be a kind mother to the family and a helpmate in the true sense of the word to her husband. Two children have been born to the second marriage: Addie F. and

Maud. x\s already noted, Mr. Drumm is one of the leading farmers and stock raisers of Harrison township, and it is also just to class him with its most intelligent, wide-awake and broad minded citizens. His farm, consisting of 160 acres of highly cultivated land, is well provided with excellent buildings, among which is a silo, the first structure of the kind ever erected in Delaware county. Mr. Drumm was elected trustee of this township in 1873, the duties of which office he discharged with credit to himself and satisfaction to the public for a period of nine years. He takes considerable interest in all matters pertaining to natural gas and he uses that ideal fuel in his home also for pumping water and operating other kinds of machinery. He is essentially a self-made man in all that term implies, and his present comfortable competence and fortunate position in life are the results of his own unaided efforts. In all the relations of life Mr. Drumm has proven himself up to the mark, whether those relations were of a public or private nature.

OHN DRUMM - About as near as one gets in this country to being absolutely independent is to be the owner of a nice farm in a section that gives plenty of rain and sunshine for the crops. Take the case of John Drumm, of Harrison township, with his broad acres, his nice house and barn, his horses and cattle and hogs, there is no noble in Europe half so happy and independent as he and his neighbors, who are fixed like him. Mr. Drumm has passed the three score and ten of the psalmist, and yet his natural vigor is not abated, and he enjoys life as it passes. He was born October 20, 1820, at Hopewell, Muskingum county, Ohio, being the son of Samuel and Susan H. (Writner) Drumm, the father being born December 15, 1786, and the mother February 12, 1795, he being a native of Virginia, and she of Philadelphia, Pa. Samuel Drumm went to Ohio when a boy with his parents, and lived with them until he was of age, spending his time upon the farm. Then he went into the manufacturing business, continuing at it for fifteen years; after which he became a farmer and continued at that until his death, at the age of sixty-eight. In politics he was a democrat, and voted for the candidates of that party. His wife survived him six or seven years. He and she were members of the Methodist church. At the time of his death he owned 640 acres, the result of the labor of his own hands. He was the father of twelve children, all of whom lived to a good old age except one, who died in early womanhood.

John Drumm remained at home upon the farm until he was of age and after that he continued there, farming on his own account, until 1863, when he came to Harrison township and bought land where he now lives - eighty acres, and afterward added thirty acres to that purchase. He was married, at the age of twenty-four, to Sarah, daughter of Andrew and Mary (Weaver) Wise, natives of Pennsylvania, her mother being seven years the junior of her father. The father was a farmer and a member of the United Brethern church, the mother also being a member of that body. Mrs. Sarah Drumm bore her husband thirteen children, and died in 1871 and was buried in Bethel cemetery. The names of these children were: Ashford, married to Mary Eber;

Millie Ann, married to John Eber; Mary, wife of Bolen Weaver; Leonard, deceased; Amelia, wife of Leander Weaver; Elias, married to Mary Hale; Harry J., married to Mary Applegate; Jennie, wife of Peter Wier; George, married to Eva Shucks; Norma Belle, deceased; Susannah, deceased; Caroline, deceased; and Laura, at home.

Mr. Drumm next married, in July, 1873, Mrs. Auker, the widow of Henry Auker. Mrs. Drumm died in the following March. Mr. Drumm was reared a United Brethern, but after coming to this county he became a Methodist. In politics he is a democrat and always votes the ticket of that party.

born on the 15th day of July, 1851, in the county of Randolph. His father, Matthew Gray, was born in Wayne county, Ind., in the year 1822, moved to Delaware county in 1853, settling in Perry township, where he resided for a period of five years, moving thence to the county of Randolph. After a residence of seven years in the latter he returned to Delaware county, where he made his home until his death, which occurred in 1891. The mother of Walter Gray was Margaret (Sanders) Gray, a woman of most exemplary character.

until arriving at the years of his legal majority, pursuing his studies in the meantime in the common schools during the winter seasons and assisting his father on the farm in the summer. For some time after his twenty-first year, he taught school, and followed the pursuits of agriculture on the home place, meeting with encouraging success in both vocations. In 1874, on the 30th day of December, when twenty-two years old, Mr. Gray was united in marriage with Miss Mary Vanbuskirk, and shortly thereafter purchased forty acres of land in Jay county, upon which he resided until 1879, disposing of the same in that year and removing to Kansas. Not finding the west suitable to his taste, he returned to Indiana after about one year's residence, and located in the county of Delaware, where he inv^ested his sole earthly wealth, about seventy dollars, in a small tract of real estate, consisting of twenty acres. On this modest homestead Mr. Gray engaged in agriculture in a moderate way, and at the same time yielded to an inclination of long standing and began the study of law, in the prosecution of which his progress was most commendable. In due time he was admitted to the bar, since which date he has practiced successfully in the courts of Delaware county, where he has a large and lucrative busidess, looking after his farming interests in the meantime. For four years he was associated in the profession with Hon. George H. Koons, present judge Delaware circuit court, but since the elevation of that gentleman to the bench, has practiced without a partner. At this time he resides on a beautiful farm in Harrison township, in which, as in other parts of the county, he owns valuable tracts of real estate, being the possessor of over three hundred acres of land, the result of his own efforts and well directed energy and business thrift. In every relation of life Mr. Gray has proved a most exemplary man and few citizens of his township are as widely and favorably known. A practical farmer, he believes in the dignity of that most useful and honorable calling; a lawyer of pronounced ability, his legal record during a number of years of close application to the profession is unclouded b)' the slightest tinge of anything disreputable in the practice; and a broad minded, intelligent man of affairs, he enjoys the confidence of his fellow citizens and is looked upon in his community as a true type of the educated, courteous gentleman. Mr. Gray is the proud father of three sons, and his home is a model in its various appointments, and the abode of generous, old fashioned hospitality. Mr. Gray has always taken an active part in politics, and at the early age of twenty years was chosen a member of the democratic central committee, with which party he officiated until 1890, since which time he has been identified with the people's party. Mrs. Gray was born in Delaware county, Ind. , June 30, 1858, and is the daughter of James and Mary (Grim) Vanbuskirk. Mr. Vanbuskirk was an Ohioan by birth, but came to Delaware county in his boyhood, and became one of the successful farmers of this part of the country. He died at the age of fifty-four years; his widow is still livihg, making her home at this time in Madison county, near the city of Anderson.

AMES M. HARTLEY. - The sons of pioneers have indeed reason to feel proud of their ancestry. The early settlers of Indiana were a class of men and women who came to the new west, not alone for personal aggrandizement, but miainly for the benefit of their posterity. They cheerfully endured hardships and wrought gladly i with their hands that they might provide a future for those who were dependent upon them. James M. Hartley was born October 24, 1 849, in Grant county, Ind. , where his parents, Joseph and Ellen (Hammers) Hartley, settled on a farm of forty acres, which they purchased from the government. The father still resides in Grant county, managing his farm, which now consists of 120 acres, but his wife died in 1852, in the faith of the Methodist church, of which she was for years a member. The father, a native of Virginia, born near Fremont, came to Indiana with his parents and settled in Henry county, where he remained until his removal to Grant county a short time thereafter.

James M. Hartley remained with his parents until he attained his majority, when he rented a farm until the spring of 1875, and then purchased his present farm in Harrison township, consisting of sixty acres. On this land he has erected a comfortable dwelling and barn, and the entire property is the result of his own unaided efforts. October 23, 1873, Mr. Hartley was united in marriage with Miss Marsha Scott, a native of Adams county, Ohio, daughter of David Scott (see sketch elsewhere). By this marriage the following children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Hartley: Carl, deceased, Linnie and Icie. Mrs. Hartley is a member of the Methodist church, in which body she is an important factor. Mr. Hartley's political convictions are in accordance with those enunciated by the democratic party. A life like Mr. Hartley's is an example to all of what industry and honest perseverance will accomplish.

RS. H. E. HARTLEY is a lady who is highly respected by all the people of Harrison township, where she lives. She was born March 8, 1841, in Henry county, Ind., being the daughter of

Thomas and Dinah (Jones) Gough. Her father was born June i, 1800, and her mother October 28, 1801, both being natives of Monongalia county, Va. ; the father dying October 22, 1883, and the mother April 2, 1874. Mrs. Dinah Hartley, in early womanhood, came from Virginia to Henry county, Ind., on horseback. Mr. Gough came to Henry county, Ind., in 1835, and engaged in the practice of medicine, and at the same time carried on farming. Mr. Gough was a very prominent man in the county, and was held in the highest repute. After a number of years he disposed of his farm, and lived a retired life at Luray, Henry county. During his life he filled the office of justice of the peace for a number of years, to the entire satisfaction of the people.

He was the son of Elisha and Sarah (Emerson) Hartley, both natives of Virginia. Benjamin F. Hartley was a successful farmer, owning 194 acres, which he acquired by the labor of his own hands. He came to this county in 1867 and located on a farm in Harrison township, which is now occupied by his widow. In politics Mr. Hartley was a democrat, and always supported the candidates of that party. The deceased was a kind and loving father, and a devoted husband, as well as a worthy citizen. By her marriage with Mr. Hartley our subject is the mother of the following children: John M., Warren, deceased; Harley D., Sarah and Thomas, both living at home. The father of these children took much interest in the Odd Fellows, being a member of Lodge No. 74 at Muncie. His remains lie in the Beech Grove cemetery, Henry county. His widow lives at the old homestead in the midst of her family, passing her life quietly, and proving herself to be a kind neighbor and a considerate friend. Mrs.

OHN KIRKMAN. - Among the many well-to-do citizens of Harrison township, John Kirkman is prominent and highly esteemed by all who know him. He was born in 1835, in Bartholomew county, Ind. ; being the son of John and Malaha (Dillon) Kirkman. His father was born in Guilford county, N. C. , March 3, 1788, and his mother in the same county in 1792. The father was a hatter by trade, and lived until his twenty-second year in his native county. At this time he came to Indiana, and located in Howard county, where he engaged in farming until 1875. Then he removed to Oregon, and there lived a retired life in Douglas county in that state, until October, 1892, the date of his death, at the age of 104 years. The mother of our subject died in 1836, when his father married, a few years later, Margaret Pike, a native of North Carolina.

In consequence of the death of his mother, John Kirkman lived with his sister until he was fourteen, and then for the next four years with a man by the name of Skein, after which he made his home with his brother, Peter, in Howard county. At the latter place he worked at whatever thing came to hand. He was married December 30, 1863, to Miss

Elizabeth Parker, daughter of 'Squire Parker, an old pioneer of this county. She was born in Delaware county February 13, 1841. Mr. Kirkman, soon after his marriage, began lumbering by renting a saw mill, which business he followed for thirty years at different places in the county. He then bought 160 acres of splendid land in the northwest part of Harrison township, where he now lives a retired life. This farm is the reward of his own labor. John Kirkman enlisted in 1861 for one year in company B, Twelfth Indiana regiment, and served sixteen months, having taken part in several skirmishes. He receives a pension of seventeen dollars a month as the result of disabilities received in the service. Mr. and Mrs. Kirkman are the parents of one child, John P. , who is a prosperous merchant. They are prominent members of the Christian church. Mr. Kirkman is an active member of lodge No. 425, I. O. O. F. , at New Corner.

HOMAS McCREERY is one of the prominent and successful farmers of Harrison township, being held in highest esteem by all who know him. He was born in Carroll county, Ohio, October 7, 1826, and came from that county at an early day with his parents, with whom he lived until twenty-four years of age, when he was married. After he became of age he worked with his father until his marriage. After the event he engaged in clearing up an eighty acre contract, which his father gave him, beside working his father's farm on shares. He has added to this property at different times, and at the present owns 417 acres and has given 160 acres to his sons. He also owns a half interest in a large store room in New Corner, and has other property located there.

Mr. McCreery was married October 25, 1849, to Miss Catherine Brown, daughter of Samuel and Phebe Brown, natives of Clinton county, Ohio. He came to this county and located in the western part of it, and was engaged in farming. He was also a cooper by trade. IMrs. Catherine McCreery was born April 7, 1828, and died April 15, 1886. Her remains rest in the Wheeling cemetery, where a beautiful monument marks the spot. She was a devoted member of the Methodist church, and enjoyed the esteem of everyone.

By the marriage the following children were born; Samuel j., married to Martha Trout; Hannah Elizabeth, wife of William Jenny; Rebecca, deceased; James William, living at home; Nathan Andrew, married to Nettie Trout; John Wesley, married to Martha Woodring; Sarah L. , wife of John Kirkland; and Mary M., wife of of Barney Hannan. Mr. Mc- Creery married September i8, 1888, for his second wife, Mrs. Margaret Ellen Anderson, widow of O, Anderson, a native of Clermont county, Ohio, who practiced medicine in Highland county, Ohio, a number of years. Mr. McCreery is a republican in politics, and a member of the Methodist Espiscopal church. He is the son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Maynard) McCreery. Samuel McCreery was born July 9, 1801, in Virginia; emigrated to Carroll county, Ohio, when a young man, and purchased one hundred acres of land, which he farmed, and remained there until 1838, when he came to this county and entered 360 acres of land, then in a primitive state. Mrs. Mc- Creery departed this life Eebruary 2, 1889, and her remains rest in the Wheeling cemetery. She was a Methodist and a devoted Christian woman. Samuel McCreery died November 23, 1893, at the age of ninety-two, and was one of Harrison township's most highly respected citizens; he was a member of the Methodist church, and a stanch supporter of the republican party.

ENRY MILLER, a well known farmer and respected citizen of Harrison township, Delaware county, Ind., is the subject of the present sketch. He was born in Adams county, Ohio, June 14, 1835, 3. son af Levi and Rheuhama (Summer) Miller, the former born April i, 1801, in Highland county, Ohio, and the latter June 5, 1809, He died in 1871, in Delaware county,

Ind., and she in 1878, in Delaware county, Ind. Both were members of the Methodist church. They first located in Henry county ; after coming to this state, and then came to Delaware county, where Mr. Miller entered eighty acres of land, owning at the time of his death, a fine tract of 420 acres, i 50 of which was cleared. He lived here at the time when transportation facilities were almost nothing, and the only way to obtain a market for his wheat was to haul it to Cincinnati, where he received for it forty cents a bushel.

Henry Miller remained with his parents until he was of age, when he engaged in work for his father for one year, and then went into the same pursuit for himself, on a farm of sixty acres, from 1858 to 1875, when he came to his present farm in Harrison township, which at that time consisted of 160 acres, but now he owns only 147 acres, all of which is under a high state of cultivation.

On December 2, 1858, Mr. Miller married Miss Ellen McLaughlin, who was born June 23, 1 840, in Washington county, Ohio, daughter of James and Elnora (Boyle) McLaughlin, the former born in May, 1807, and the latter in May, 1814. Mr. McLaughlin came from Allen county, Ohio, to this township and located on the farm now occupied by Mr. Miller, but passed out of life June 10, 1852. His widow is still living in this township. They were worthy people and members of the Methodist church.

Eighty-fourth Indiana regiment, for three years and served until the close of the war, engaging in a number of skirmishes, and now receives a pension of $4. per month. Mr. and Mrs. Miller have the following children: James Levi, Martha Jane, the wife of Derilus Trout; Sarah Samantha, wife of Andrew Woodring; Ora Elmer, and Nora Ann who is deceased. Mr. Miller is a democrat in his political convictions and is a worthy citizen. He and wife are worthy members of the United Brethern church.

AMUEL J. NEWMAN. - Among the very respectable and honest, hardworking citizens of Harrison township, is Samuel J. Newman. He was born May 30, 1839, in Adams county, Ohio, being the son of Samuel D. and Serena (Randall) Newman. The father was born July 15, 1803, in Virginia, and the mother Eebruary 29, 1804, in New York state. The father, Samuel D. Newman, came to Blue Creek, Adams county, Ohio, with his parents when he was about thirteen years of age, and remained there until he was twenty-one, when he bought a farm in this county. When about thirtyfive years old he engaged in the mercantile business at Blue Creek, Adams county, Ohio, conducting a general store for about thirty-five years; also operating a saw mill and grist mill at the same place during this time. This enterprising man was also a very large land owner, having at the time of his death 1,000 acres. Notwithstanding his arduous duties he was likewise a minister for the Christian church for a number of years prior to his death, which occurred March 26, 1888. In politics he was a democrat of the Jacksonian school. His worthy wife, to whom he was married in 1825, died January 30, 1887. Both of them were of English descent, and were very much esteemed by their neighbors and friends.

Samuel J. Newman lived with his parents until he was twenty-two years old, and then he engaged with his father as an engineer in the mill, working in this capacity for two years; then entered a store and continued there as clerk for the same length of time. He was then 1 employed as an engineer by William Wansley for one year, then came to Delaware county, Ind., and worked in Harrison township for David Scott, his father-in-law, for five years, when he bought the farm upon which he now lives. The marriage of our subject occurred May 4, 1865, his wife being Melissa Scott, who was born April 28, 1848, being the daughter of David Scott, whose sketch appears in another part of this work. The children of this marriage were nine in number, as follows: Mattie, born September 22, 1866, and died January 28, 1883; Oscar C., born March ii, 1869, and died October 2, 1876; Charles S., born September 28, 1870, and died December 24, 1870; Millard, born May 27, 1872; Walter S., born November 6, 1876; S. Pearl, born December II, 1878; Jessie L. , born February 9, 1882; Cora, born August 2, 1883, and died May 6, 1887, and Carrie, born May i, 1887.

Mr. Newman was brought up in the democratic faith and has adhered to the principles of that party ever since. He owns sixty acres of fine land.

A. QUICK, a prominent farmer and stockgrower of Harrison township, Delaware county, was born February 8, 1839, in Henry county, Ind. He is the son of John and Nancy (Clary) Quick; the father was born in Ohio, in April, 1781, and the mother was a native of Hamilton county, Ohio. John Quick settled in Henry county, Ind., in 1827, and entered 160 acres of land, where he lived the life of a pioneer and remained there until 1858, when he removed to Madison county, and lived until his death, which occurred in 1881. The mother, Mrs, Nancy Quick, died in 1843, and Mr. Quick married for his second wife Miss Levina Heath, the daughter of Robert Heath and a 1 native of North Carolina. They were prom-

J. A. Quick dutifully remained at home with his parents until he was eighteen years old, receiving a common school education, and then became clerk in a store, following this until he was twenty-one years old. He then engaged in farming, renting his father's farm in Madison county, for one year, and then bought ninety acres in the same county, on which he located and resided until 1886, at which time he exchanged this farm for 240 acres in Harrison township, where he now lives, paying a difference of $2, 500. At the present time he owns 280 acres, and except the time he was employed in the store, has been a farmer all his life. He was elected township trustee in 1870, and held the office four years; was again elected in 1876, and continued in it until 1880. Mr. Quick is a republican, and one of the most prominent men in the township.

He was married January 2, i860, to Miss Mary E. Love, daughter of James and Jane (Johnson) Love, who were natives of Ireland. Her father was born in 1812, and her mother in 1814, and they emigrated to this country in 1849, landing in Pittsburg, Pa.; remained there a short time, and then went to Lranklin county, Ind. , where Mr. Love engaged in farming and renting land, and then settled in Madison county. Mrs. Love died, after which Mr. Love lived with his daughter, Mr. Quick, for two years, when he removed to Minnesota, where he resided the remainder of his life.

He and wife were consistent members of the Methodist church. Mrs. Quick was born January 2, 1837, 3,nd is the mother of four children, namely: Lizzie Josephine, deceased; John C., a physician at Muncie; Nettie J., a teacher, living at home; James M., a teacher of this county. Mr. Quick and wife are upright and worthy members of the Christian church. He is a republican and a man of much influence in his township, and this Influence is always exerted for good. He is one of the progressive men of the county, ever ready to assist in all public improvements.

AMES W. RICHARDSON is one of the oldest pioneers and prominent citizens of Harrison township. He was born December 7, 1815, in Erie county, N. Y., in sight of the old Lillmore place, where ex-President Lillmore was born. The parents of James W. were John and Sukey (Washburn) Richardson, the father of Welsh descent and a native of Maine, and the mother of the same state but of Scotch descent. They both came with their parents to Woodstock, Vermont, when quite young. Mr. and Mrs. Richardson remained with their parents until 1814, and then came to Erie county, N. Y. , where the father engaged in shoemaking (having learned the trade when a boy), also in farming, and later purchased 100 acres of land. He sold this in 1835, and came to Delaware county, settling near Smithfield. Here he bought i 20 acres of land, on which he lived until the death of his wife, which occurred five years later. He was married soon after to Jane Blunt, the widow of William Blunt, who lived only a couple of years after her marriage. His father died on White River, in this county.

James W. Richardson remained with his parents until he was eighteen years of age, and then went to Canada, where he worked for two years on a farm, and then went to Michigan, settling near Ann Arbor. Here he learned the carpenter's trade with Calvin T. Lillmore, the brother of ex-President Lillmore. Mr. Richardson remained here for about two years and then went to a place in Illinois, which was about twenty-seven miles northwest of Chicago, working in a saw mill for eighteen months. From there he removed to Delaware county, Ind. , remaining until spring, and then went to Marion county, where he worked on a farm for one year at ten dollars per month. Mr. Richardson then worked on th© Mississippi river for three years, beginning as a common hand, but in two years acting as captain of the boat. Tiring of this life, he returned to Harrison township, where he was married August 28, 1841, to Miss Lilly Blunt, who was born in Randolph county, Ind., May 2, 1820, being the daughter of William and Jane (Barnes) Blunt. They were both natives of Pennsylvania, and came to Harrison township when they were about twenty years of age. Mrs. Richardson's parents built the first cabin in Delaware county in 1818 and settled there, when their only neighbors were the Indians, and their daughter Lilly's only playmates were the little Indian maidens. Mr. Blunt died and then Mrs. Blunt married our subject's father.

James W. Richardson, after his marriage, rented a farm and worked this for six years. He then bought twenty-seven acres (which are now included in his present farm), the land being in its primitive state. On this tract of land Mr. and Mrs. Richardson began their housekeeping, carrying all of their goods to the cabin in one trip. This couple saw many hardships, as only the early pioneer can tell anything about, but they were industrious and economical, and as a result of their labor they have a fine home. Mr. Richardson received a present of $250 from his father, with which he bought land, continuing until he had ninety acres, later trading it for ninety acres in a different location with a Mr. Corry. He soon sold this for $1,600, and bought 160 acres for $1,200. On this land Mr. Richardson lived for thirty years, and then bought 100 acres of as fine land as in the county, included in which was the twenty-seven acres he had first settled on. Mr. and Mrs. Richardson are both attendants of the Christian church, of which Mrs. Richardson has been a devoted member ever since she was eighteen years of age. Politically, Mr. Richardson is an independent.

AVID SCOTT. - Among the many land owners and fine agriculturists of Delaware county, Ind., is David Scott, who was born in Adams county, Ohio, December 18, 1820, a son of James and Agnes (Young) Scott, the former of Pennsylvania. In that state James Scott grew to manhood, engaged in farming and also followed the trade of stone mason, but while a young man emigrated to Adams county, Ohio, seeking a better condition. He remained in the latter state until his death, which occurred in 1847,

David Scott lived with his parents until the time of his marriage, having grown up a farmer, and being employed at various jobs of work that came under his notice. He then learned the blacksmith trade in 1847, and worked at the same until 1865 when he came to Indiana and located on his present farm, where he has since remained, engaged in farming, in connection with his trade, which has always been a lucrative one. He now owns 120 acres of land, forty of which are covered with valuable timber. The marriage of Mr. Scott took place in 1843, Miss Sarah Ham, born July 9, 1825, daughter of Isaac and

Elizabeth (Anderson) Ham, he a native of Maine and she of Adams county, Ohio, the father, by occupation, a farmer and blacksmith. Mr. Ham lived in Ohio until 1844 and then moved to Illinois, where he died in 1887; the mother of Mrs. Scott dying in 1850. Mr.

Isaac M. , deceased; Malissa, wife of Samuel J. Newman; Marsha Alice, wife of James M. Hartley; and Tabitha, wife of James Eber. Mr. Scott is a stanch democrat and has testified to his social instincts by becoming a member of the Muncie lodge of Odd Eellows, No. 74. The family is one much esteemed in this neighborhood, where they are best known. Kind neighbors and good citizens all wish them well.

OHN SIMPSON. - Among those brave patriots who promptly responded to the call of duty in the late war occurs the name of John Simpson, one of the prominet farmer residents of Harrison township. Mr. Simpson was born in 1839, nine miles north of the city of Richmond, Wayne county, Ind., son of Henry and Polly Ann (Woods) Simpson. Henry Simpson was a native of North Carolina and came to Indiana, when a boy of nine years, with his parents, with whom he remained until he attained his majority, when he learned the plasterer's trade. In addition to this calling he was an engineer, and followed these two trades throughout his life. Both he and his estimable wife died about the year 1861. They were the parents of eight children, four of whom are still living.

John Simpson, at the age of twenty-one, in 1861, enlisted in company B, One Hundred and Forty-seventh Indiana volunteer infantry, for three months. At the expiration of his term of service, he re-enlisted for one year or during the war, and saw some eight months' service in all. On account of injuries received during the war, he now receives a pension of $20 dollars per month. Until becoming of age Mr. Simpson resided with his parents, but after his return from the war began life for

The first marriage of Mr. Simpson occurred in 1872, with Miss Betsy Lenox, a daughter of John and Nancy Lenox, the former of whom came to this county at an early date, almost penniless, but by hard and patient industry he accumulated property, and at the time of his death owned some 470 acres of finely cultivated land. Mrs. Simpson died in 1877, leaving two children: Borter, married to Nora Hudson, and Jane, wife of Elmer Reece. Mr. Simpson married in 1878, his second wife being Harriet Reynolds, a native of Indiana, born June 4, 1857, daughter of Breckenridge and Ellen Reynolds, natives of Virginia. Mr. Reynolds came to Indiana at an early date, settling near Muncie. Although he possessed nothing at the time of his location here, at the time of his death he was the owner of 1,300 acres of good land, well improved. His death occurred in 1887, his wife having preceded him to the grave in 1865. Mr. and Mrs. Simpson have one child, Addie, at home. Mr. Simpson enjoys the respect and esteem of his fellow citizens and is regarded as one of the substantial farmers of this region of country.

AVID L. TROWBRIDGE, M. D. - The duties imposed upon a physician are very arduous, and oftentimes he is taxed beyond his strength in complying with all the demands made upon his time and skill. David L. Trowbridge, M. D., of Harrison tqwnship, belongs to this class, and many there are throughout the county who can testify to his patience and skill in times of sickness. Dr. Trowbridge was born in Boone county, Ky. , February 4, 1834, a son of Joseph and Ruama (Riley) Trowbridge.

Dr. David Trowbridge

The doctor remained with his parents until he attained his majority, his boyhood days being spent upon the farm. When he became of age he engaged in farming in Henry county on a small tract, but in a few years he sold this place and removed to Bluntsville, where he became interested in a saw mill, which he continued to operate until its destruction by fire about one year later. This left him with but little money, but he rebuilt the mill and continued the business for some nine years. About the time of the burning of the mill, he began the study of medicine, also practicing a little among the neighbors, in 1867, in Randolph county. In 1868, he changed his location to Cowan, Delaware county, where he remained until 1881, at which time he located in Muncie, remaining in that city until 1885, when he bought a small farm in Harrison township, upon which he lived until 1892. In the latter year he sold the farm with the intention of again locating in Muncie, but afterward purchased another farm located in Harrison township, where he now makes his home. In addition to his agricultural interests, Mr. Trowbridge makes chronic diseases a specialty and also pursues a general practice.

Dr. Trowbridge has been married twice, his first wife having been Miss Rebecca Stout, of Henry county, Ind., born in 1837, daughter of Elijah and Sallie (Williams) Stout, natives of Ohio. Mrs. Trowbridge died in 1876 after bearing her husband the following children: Alice V., wife of Emerson Case; Sallie R. , wife of Smith Childs, deputy sheriff of Delaware county; Rosella E., wife of John W. McKinley; William B. ; Merrit E. and Ernest, both deceased. The first wife was a member of the Christian church. In 1878 Dr. Trowbridge married again, his second wife being Amanda Clevenger, born March 14, 1857, in Delaware county, Ind., daughter of Job and Elizabeth (Bower) Clevenger, natives of Ohio.

Laurel May and an infant unnamed. Both the Doctor and wife are members of the Christian church, in which body they are prominent factors. In politics Dr. Trowbridge was a republican until a few years since, when he identified himself with the peoples' party. At the last election he was the nominee for representative to the national assembly and was also endorsed by the democratic party.

Rev. Joseph Trowbridge, the father of Dr. Trowbridge, was born in New Jersey and died in the city of Muncie, Ind., in 1884, at eighty-six years of age. He was a farmer and minister. He began preaching at twenty-one years of age and continued until his death, a minister of the Christian church. The mother of Dr. Trowbridge was also born in New Jersey, in 1818, and is now living with her son David. The family came originally from England and settled, first, on Long Island, N. Y. , prior to the Revolutionary war, then went to New Jersey, then to New York and later to Ohio.

Source changes here: from A Twentieth Century History of Delaware County, Indiana, by Kemper, G. W. H. (General William Harrison), published 1908; 28 words in this source stream.

Harrison Township

Nathaniel Polk, William Lee, Daniel Fisher, Hugh Campbell. Sec. 18 - 1836: Ezra Wasson and Thomas Moore. Sec. 22 - 1836: Jacob Moore, James Bolton, Augustus A. Root, Loxley A.