Indian Creek Township (part 3 of 3)

Closing Scenes Of The Rebellion

receive the returning soldiers. The news of the capture of Jeff Davis, while endeavoring to escape in woman's attire, created much amusement, and all said with the Republican: " Hang him like Haman between Heaven and earth as being fit for neither." Thursday, June 1, the day set apart by President Johnson as one of humiliation and prayer on account of the assassination of Lincoln, was duly observed in Bloomington and throughout the county. On the Fourth of July, 1865, a reception and fine dinner were given the boys, many of whom had come from the war. The venerable Gen. Jacob B. Lowe was President of the Day ; Maj. Mulky, Marshal, assisted by Col. McCrea and Capt. Cookerly. Early in the morning of this sultry day, wagons and carriages loaded with country tolk began to arrive through the dust. Many of the townships sent organized processions, with martial music and banners, and all were dressed in the light, airy garb of summer. About 10 o'clock, one grand procession about a mile in length was formed on and near the public square, and the march to the college campus was commenced in the following order: 1. The Bloomington Silver Band. 2. Officers of the Day, Orator, Reader, Chaplain and distinguished guests. 3. Soldiers of the war of 1812. 4. Thirteen small girls dressed in white, with badges, representing the thirteen original States. 5. Soldiers of the late war for the defense of the Union and the suppression of the rebellion. 6. The Goddess of Liberty, bearing the national flag, and thirty-six young ladies, dressed in white, representing all the States of the Union. 7T. Citizens generally - men, women and children. The reception speech, one of unusual fervor and eloquence, was delivered by Rev. S. T. Gillett, and was responded>to by Col. M. C. Hunter, of the Eighty-second Regiment. The latter gave several graphic descriptions of experiences on the battle-field, especially on that of bloody Chickamauga, where over one-half of his own regiment fell, killed or wounded. These addresses were short, and were followed by that of Col. W. C. L. Taylor, of the Twentieth Regiment, Orator of the Day. It wasa long speech of great power and feeling, and moved scores in the audience to tears. Then came the dinner, and what a feast for the brave boys! Eight long tables were heaped with the richest viands '* Old Monroe" could furnish, and stood groaning under the burden until relieved by the hungry multitude. Thousands ate of the bounty of the citizens, but the soldiers were given the choicest of all and were "kings of the carnival." It was a grand day grandly spent.

Relief And Bounty

During the first few months of the war nothing was done by the citizens, as a mass, in the way of relief, either for soldiers or their families. While the first companies were yet in camp at the places of rendezvous. they had been sent blankets, towels, clothing and -luxuries to tempt the appetite, but nothing farther had been done. As the cold months approached, Gov. Morton suggested that each county should thoroughly organize its relief or aid societies, and in response to this appeal the ladies of Bloomington met at Dunn's Hall, on the 14th of October, to form such a society. Mrs. Meginniss was elected President of the society ; Louise Wylie, Secretary ; Mrs. Robert C. Foster, Treasurer ; Mrs. Dr. Dodds, Mrs. David Batterton, Mrs. W. O. Fee, Mrs. Paul

Slocum, Mrs. Leonard, Mrs. Hibben, Mrs. Jacob Young, Mrs. James Gordon, Mrs. Press Harbison, Mrs. James Small, Mrs. Sweringen and Miss Fullerton, Directresses. On the following Thursday, the society met again, bringing in many contributions of money and supplies for field and hospital. Two barrels of supplies were sent to the company of Capt. Kelley, and large quantities to those of Capts. Lunderman, Charles and McCalla. The value of the stores shipped at this time was not less than $300. Early in November, a large quantity of supplies, principally for the sick and wounded, was sent to the Monroe County boys with Lieut. M. L. McCullough. As the cold weather came on, urgent appeals for clothing and supplies of all kinds from the army were received and published in the Republican. Every company from the county had one or more correspondents for the home paper. 'The terrible effects of the ravages of disease and the want of sufficient food and clothing and comfortable quarters were painted in a manner to wring the hearts of friends at home, and renewed efforts were made to obtain money and supplies. A large box of hospital stores was sent in December to the company of Capt. Dains, and another large box was sent to Dr. McPheeters for the use of the sick of the Thirty-third Regiment. On the 23d of January, 1862, the Secretary of the Ladies' Aid Society reported that up to that time there had been sent two boxes of supplies to Capt. Kelley's company in Virginia, two to Capt. Lunderman's company in Missouri, one to Capt. Charles' company, one to Capt. McCalla's company in Kentucky, one to Capt. Dains' company, one to the Thirty-third Regiment in Kentucky, one box to Capt. Kop's company, four boxes and barrels to the hospitals of Louisville, and considerable local assistance to sick soldiers. The following articles were sent as above specified: 77 shirts, 68 pairs drawers, 47 blankets, 17 coverlets, 17 comforts, 7 quilts, 50 towels, 20 sheets, 100 pillow slips, 31 pillows, 45 pairs of gloves and mittens, 165 pairs of socks, 49 cans of*fruit, 11 sacks of dried fruit, 16 dozen eggs, 20 pounds of butter, 2 turkeys, 72 chickens, and a large quantity of handkerchiefs, bandages, hospital stores, sugar, rice, corn-starch, tumblers, spoons, soap, wine, etc. Besides these articles, there was on hand thirtytwo packages containing similar supplies, a large box of supplies just ready to be shipped to Capt. McCalla's company, and five boxes and bar- _ rels full of provisions for the Louisville hospitals. The Treasurer's cash

Receipts. Expenditures

During the winter and spring months of 1862, the aid society did extensive and highly meritorious work in providing soldiers' families at Bloomington and vicinity with flour, meat, potatoes, groceries, etc. This was true of all portions of the county. An aid society at Ellettsville did most excellent work, but, unfortunately, as the reports of the officers were not published, the details cannot be recorded in these pages. Early in May, 1862, the students of the Female Seminary collected the following supplies and sent them to the hospitals of New Albany for the wounded of the battle of Pittsburg Landing and for the sick: Twenty cans of fruit, 2 cans concentrated chicken, 4 bottles of wine, 2 bottles of catsup, 2 pounds of tea, 5 pounds of rice, 15 pounds of corn starch, 2 pounds of nutmegs, 2 bushels of dried fruit, 9 towels, 64 handkerchiefs, 2 pairs of drawers, 1 shirt, 1 sheet, 1 pair of pillow slips, 1,000 yards bandages and 24 pounds of butter. About the same time the ladies of Stanford sent to the same placea large box of similar supplies and received a letter of thanks from the Secretary of the Commission of that city. Supplies continued to be sent off at intervals during the warm months. In September, several large boxes were shipped to the hospitals. In October, about half a dozen big boxes and barrels of supplies were sent to New Albany for the hospitals. A barrel of nice new apples was sent there, and a letter from the Secretary described how eagerly the sick and wounded boys devoured the mellow fruit. The new officers of the society, elected in about September, were: Mrs. Hibben, President; Lizzie Me- Pheeters, Secretary.

A meeting of the citizens of Monroe County took place at the Court House on Wednesday, December 24, 1862, pursuant to a call signed by sundry citizens, to devise some plan for the relief of soldiers' families. On motion, Mr. James Small was called to the chair, and L. Forbes chosen Secretary.

P. L. D. Mitchell made a verbal report as a member of a committee appointed at a former meeting. R. C. Foster offered the following. resolution : :

Indian Creek Township. - It being stated that an organization already existed in this township, the meeting declined to make any appointments, but requested that they meet with and co-operate with us.

This military committee organization existed in some form during the remainder of the war, and at times did efficient service. On New Year's Day, 1863, a cotilion party held at Tuley's Hall donated $47 to the aid society for the benefit of sick and wounded soldiers. About the Ist of

March, 1863, the Treasurer of the Aid Society, Agnes E. Foster, submitted the following report since the organization of the society in 1861:

On the 26th of March, $58.35 net was realized at a concert and turned over for the use of soldiers' families. Prof. E. Marquis conducted the concert. Considerable was done during the summer of 1863, of which no account was published. Early in September, James Small, of the Christian Commission, reported the following receipts:

Second Presbyterian Phurch..........-...-.oscccrscoreresssaeesecescscess $12 50 Reformed Presbyterian, Prof. Wylie's.............scscseeseeseeneeeees 14 50 Reformed Presbyterian, Mr. Shaw's.............sscecsseeeeseeeeneeers 14 50 First Presbyterian Church.............-cssesseocesecccsscnssorseseecees 7 75 BrompWilliamtusemple secs... .cosssecsscmseccosyonensesacccasssesceetenrees 25 Brome MISS HALDIS ON eee as ee eRe AeA ELTA ECEE Eeter een 2 50

During the winter months of 1863-64, the society realized several hundred dollars by means of lectures, festivals, ete. It also sent away six or seven big boxes and barrels of hospital supplies. Much assistance was furnished soldiers' families. About the Ist of June, an enormous festival, given in the University Chapel, netted the society abcut $200. This was one of the most successful gatherings of the kind ever at the county seat. The chapel was beautifully decorated with green sprigs and bright summer flowers, and all came out in the fairy costumes of June. On the 26th of this month, $328.40 was raised in a few minutes at the Methodist Church for the Sanitary Commission after an eloquent address by Chaplain J. H. Lozier, agent of the Commission. Early in August, $1,225 was contributed to the Sanitary Commission by the citizens of Bloomington and vicinity. About this time the following soliciting committees were appointed

The aid society had almost abandoned work during the warm months, but in October, at the approach of cold weather, was re-organized. Several boxes of supplies were soon sent to the hospitals in Kentucky. On Thanksgiving Day, over $100 worth of provisions was distributed to soldiers' families in Bloomington, and doubtless other portions of the county did as well correspondingly. Early in December, the County Board appropriated $1,000, to be distributed to the townships, under the direction of the Trustees, for the use of soldiers' families. The distribution was as follows :

Bean Blossom, $84.50; Washington, $73.50; Marion, $32.50; Benton, $57; Bloomington, $206; Richland, $95; Van Buren, $73; Perry, $111; Salt Creek, $48; Polk, $42; Clear Creek, $100; Indian Creek, $77.50. These amounts were duly distributed. Oh the 5th of January, 1865, a concert, under the supervision of Prof. Marquis, netted the aid society $58.90. An amateur concert, under the management of W. B. Seward, in February, netted the society $77.45. Various other smaller amounts were received from similar sources. The following table shows what was done by the county as relief and bounty during the war:

Pension Roll

The following is the list of the pensioners ot Monroe County, prepared on the Ist of January, 1883, in pursuance of an enactment of the United States Senate:

The Roll Of Honor

Capt. James R. Kelley, died May 8, 1862, of wounds received at Winchester ; Sergt. John C. Cox, died at Huttonville, Va., November 3, 1861 ; Jesse A. Steele, killed at Antietam, September 17, 1862; Alexander S. Retan, died April 14, 1862, of wounds received at Winchester ; George Mc- Ivery, died November, 1862, of wounds received at Antietam ; Thomas W. Carlow, killed at Antietam, September, 1862; Andrew M. Arthur, killed by accident, September, 1861; Elijah Barrett, died April, 1862, of wounds received at Winchester; Lewis Crump, died April, 1862, of wounds received at Winchester; James Degan, died November, 1862 ; Edward Duncan, died December, 1861; Andrew Harsh, killed at Antietam, September, 1862; Richard Houston, killed at Antietam, September, 1862; James M. Hughes, killed in the Wilderness, May, 1864 ; Joseph M. McCalla, died'August, 1861; Joseph McDonald, veteran, killed in affray near Stevensburg, Va.; William Miller, died April, 1862, of wounds received at Winchester; James H. Raper, died May, 1864, of wounds received at Spottsylvania; John Raper, died May, 1861; Stacey F. Smith, killed at Antietam, September, 1862 ; William H. Smith, died June, 1864, of wounds received at Spottsylvania; F. M. Wagoner, killed at Cold Harbor; W. S. Thomas, killed at Cold Harbor; W. A. Steire, died in hospital; George W. Kelley, died of wounds received at Antietam. '

Lieut. Col. William Stanley Charles, died of wounds November 10, 1864; Sergt. Samuel W. Dodds, died at St. Louis, Mo., November, 1861; Charles H. Spencer, died at Helena, Ark., September, 1862; Sylvester Barnett, died at Cassville, Mo., April, 1862 ; James Fox, killed by guerrillas, Syracuse, Mo., December, 1861; William Martin, died at Cassville, Mo., 1862; John E. Martin, died at Cassville, Mo., March, 1862; Michael Odenwald, died at St. Louis, November, 1861; Thomas St. Clair, died at St. Louis, November, 1862; Alvin Walker, died at St. Louis, November, 1861; Arthur Walker, died at Otterville, December, 1861; Richard D. Wylie, died at Otterville, Mo., October, 1861; John Carter, died at Warren, Mo.; John T. West, died at New Albany.

Lieut. Lewis W. Daily, died of wounds received at Cassville, Mo.; Sergt. Benjamin T. Gardner, died December, 1863, of wounds received in action ; William B. Miller, died December, 1863, of wounds received in action; Verdman Johnson, died April, 1862 ; of wounds received in action ; Edward Graham, died at St. Louis, Mo., October, 1861; Hezekiah Brown, died August, 1861; Copernicus H. Coffey, veteran, died June, 1864, of wounds ; Christopher C. Coffey, died at Farmington, Miss., July, 1862; William H. Cooper, died at Otterville, Mo., 1861; James M. Coffey, died at Syracuse, Mo., December, 1861; Henry L. Duncan, died at Harrodsburg, Ind., April, 1862 ; Joseph Elkins, died at Harrodsburg, Ind., April, 1862; Charles M. Goben, died at St. Louis, May, 1862; William G. Jennings, died at Lynn Creek, Mo., February, 1562; Fleming Johnson, died at Evansville, Ind., July, 1862; James H. Pettus, killed at Perryville, Ky., October, 1862; Joseph S. Tayler, killed at Perryville, Ky., October, 1862; William Warman, died, August, 1862; William H. Williams, died July, 1863 ; Elijah Lyons, killed at Rome, Ga., May, 1864; Joseph M. Mayfield, died September, 1864, of wounds received at Jonesboro; W. G. Jennings, died at Trynne Creek, Mo.

Sergt. James B. Fullbright, killed at Shiloh, April, 1862; Miller M. Sutphin, died at Calhoun, Ky., February, 1862 ; John Baxter, died near Elkton, Ala., July, 1862; Benjamin F. Taylor, died at Calhoun, Ky., December, 1861; James M. Eller, died at New Albany, July, 1862; Rolly Franklin, killed at Shiloh, April, 1862; Robert A. Harbison, died at Calhoun, Ky., December, 1861; James V. Livingston, veteran, killed at Kenesaw, June, 1864 ; James J. Livingston, died at New Albany, May, 1862; Willis L. Mathers, died at Calhoun, Ky., December, 1861; Jacob Medows, killed at Stone River, December, 1862; Elisha Robertson, died at Evansville, July, 1862; William H. Shafer, died at Corinth, May, 1862; Thomas Tull, died at Corinth, May, 1862; Benjamin H. Whisenand, died at Calhoun, Ky., February, 1862 ; Jacob Wright, died at Bowling Green, Ky., November, 1862 ; Samuel E. Wylie, died at Calhoun, Ky., February, 1862; William S. Butcher, died at Nashville, Tenn. ; Abraham Floyd, died at Madison,Ind., April, 1865 ; William H. Fox, died at Indianapolis, March, 1864; Bedford Havions, died at Atlanta, Ga. ; Alvin Howard, killed at Nashville, December, 1864; John Keith, died May, 1864, of wounds received at Resaca; Alexander Lucas, died at Atlanta, August, 1864 ; Lewis W. Shields, died at Indianapolis, March, 1864; John W. Smallwood, died at Huntsville, Ala., March, 1865 ; Jeremiah Vanderpool, died at Nashville, August, 1864.

First Lieut. Joseph H. Reeves, died March, 15, 1864; Francis D. Mathew, veteran, killed on picket near Atlanta, August, 1864; John Ashbrook, died at Danville Prison, Va., January, 1864; James, W. Nichols, died at Andersonville Prison, December, 1864; John W. Smith, died in Aildersonville Prison; John M. Sharp, died at Chattahocchie River, Ga., July, 1864.

Capt. Isaac S. Dains, died of disease at Little Rock, Ark.; William H. Coffey, died at Little Rock ; William Lee, died at Little Rock; John Thompson, died at Louisburg, Ark.

Lieut. Col. Paul E. Siocum, died of wounds received in action March 3, 1864; Second Lieut. Samuel Guy, died of disease May 22, 1863; William J. Craig, killed at Resaca May, 1864; Henry W. Bunger, died at home December, 1862 ; James E. Bunger, died at home, August, 1864, of wounds received at Resaca; Adam A. Copenhaver, died of wounds at Chattanooga February, 1864; Samuel Coan, died at Murfreesboro February, 1863; William Curry, died March, 1864, of wounds received at Mission Ridge; James R. Dearman, killed at Chickamauga September, 1863; George W. Dubois, died at Gallatin, Tenn.; George W. Edwards, died at Murfreesboro February, 1863 ; John L. Gardner, died at Nashville, Tenn., March, 1863; Robert P. Hanna, died at Atlanta October, 1864; William Harbison, died at Louisville, Ky.; Daniel C. Houston, died at Gallatin, Tenn., November, 1864 ; Joseph Lills, died October, 1863, of wounds received at Chickamauga; Abram May, died at Nashville, Tenn., February, 1863 ; Clark McDermott, killed at Chickamauga, September, 1863; William McDermott, died of wounds received at Chickamauga; Emmett Mitchell, died at Nashville, Tenn., February, 1863; John W. Strong, died at Winchester, Tean., August 1863; Edward T. Sluss, died September, 1864, of wounds; George W. Whitaker, died at Bowling, Ky., June, 1863; James Russell, killed at Chickamauga; John W. Temple, killed at Resaca; J. B. Hoover, died at Louisville, Ky.; James M. Burris, died in Andersonville Prison ; George Yund, died at Chickamauga.

Hooshour, supposed to have died; Isom Prince, died in Lawrence County, Ind., November, 1862 ; Henry Southern, died at Walnut Hills, Miss., July, 1863; Robert Alton, supposed to have been lost on Steamer Sultana: David Miller, died at Mound City, Ill., August, 1863; James Meadows, died at Indianapolis, January, 1864.

Service

Capt. Isaac A. Buskirk, died of disease July 11, 1864; William E Alexander, died at Pulaski, Tenn., August, 1864; Horace L. Beatly, died at Jacksonville Prison, Fla., May, 1865; William M. Berry, died July, 1865; Richard J. Drake, died at Pulaski, Tenn., August, 1864 ; Jonathan East, died at Louisville, Ky., April, 1865; Richard R. Mc- Cune, died at Pulaski, Tenn., April, 1864; Thomas Peterson, died at Nashville, Tenn., December, 1864; Samuel Parks, died at St. Louis, Mo., January, 1865; John Quick, died at Columbus, Ind., April, 1864;

Aaron J. Rutledge, died at Bloomington, Ind., April, 1864 ; James H. Waugh, died at Nashville, Tenn., of wounds received, December, 1864 ; William Welch, died at Vicksburg, Miss., August, 1865; Ira Young, died at Nashville, Tenn., November, 1864; Charles Amor, died at Corinth, Miss.; Eli Fowler, died of disease at Ft. Gaines; John R. Fielder, died of disease at Mobile, Ala.

Hugh C. Adams, died at Dalton, Ga., April, 1865; William Clark, died at Nashville, Tenn., April, 1865; James M. Craig, died at Louisville, Ky., February, 1865; George H. Collins, died May, 1865 ; John M. Hubbard, died at Indianapolis, Ind., February, 1865; Tilghman A. Rogers, died at Dalton, Ga., March, 1865; John Stewart, died at Bainbridge, Ga., October, 1865; James M. Pauley, died at Dalton, Ga., April, 1865; James H. Smithville, died at Cuthbert, Ga., January, 1866 ; Jordan Wisely, died at Dalton, Ga., April, 1865.

Miscellaneous

James H. Knight (Fifty-ninth), died at Nashville, Tenn.; Capt. Fred Butler (Twenty-first Battery), died at New Orleans; William Barnes, killed at Ashley Gap, Va.; Elvin Farmer, died at Memphis; Milton H. Mobley (Second Cavalry), died at New Albany; Wren Allen (Second Cavalry), died in Andersonville Prison; Lee Stewart (Second Cavalry), killed at Newman Station; Abraham (Second Cavalry) killed at Newman Station; Daniel Breakison (Second Cavalry), died at Cornith; James Thompson (Ninth Battery), killed at Shiloh ; Robert H. Gourley (Twentieth Battery), died at New Maysville, Ind.; Capt. Peter Kop (Twentyseventh), killed at Antietam; J. J. Howard, killed in the service ; William Rice (Fourteenth), died in captivity ; Capt. Joseph Young (Ninety-seventh), killed at Kenesaw ; James A. Butcher (Ninety-seventh), died of wounds at home; James M. Hodges (Forty-third), died of disease at Helena, Ark.; Hiram Reed (Ninety-seventh), died of disease at Memphis ; Alfred Bowers (Ninety-seventh), killed at Kenesaw; William H. Carmichael (Ninetyseventh), died at Moscow, Tenn.; James H. Sparks (Ninety-seventh), died at Camp Sherman; Enoch Alexander (Fifty-ninth), died in Anderronville Prison ; John D. Alexander (Fifty-ninth), died at Chattanooga ; Jefferson Smith (Thirty-third), killed at Thompson's Station ; Lieut. Isaac B. Buskirk (Twenty-seventh), killed at Chancellorsville; Samuel Knight (Thirty-third), killed by guerrillas at Resacca, Ga.; Joseph Richeson (Twenty seventh), died at Williamsport, Md.; E. F. Jacobs (Vifty-fourth), died in Field Hospital; Martin O'Comrel ('T'wenty-seventh), died in Field Hospital ; Thomas Tull (Thirty-first), died at Corinth; William Simpson, died of disease at Nashville, Tenn.; A. B. Yates (Second), killed at Vicksburg; Henry Sipes (T'wenty-seventh), killed at Darnestown, Md.; Thomas Todd (Twenty-seventh), died at Darnestown, Md.; E. M. Flatlook (Twentyseventh), died at Frederick, Md.; Reuben Hendrix, killed at Resaca ; George Edwards (Twenty-seventh), killed at Resaca; Thomas Pratt (Twenty-seventh), killed at Atlanta; David Cook, died at Louisville, Ky.; C. M. Bowen (Twenty-seventh), died at Washington City; J. W. Litz (Kighty-second), wounded and died at Chattanooga; John Thomas corner, and is one of the richest tracts of land to be found within a radius of many miles. There is more Joam in the soil than is usually found in the townships of the county, and this, combined with the fact that the township as a whole is not so rolling, renders it a more desirable place of residence for farming. The township is drained by the branches of Clear Creek and Indian Creek. This is one of the few localities of the county where the celebrated Chester sandstone appears at the surface, and consists of light gray and bright red laminated stone, highly ferruginous and usually irregularly bedded. The iron deposit on Sections 6 and 7 - unusually rich and heavy, but hardly rich enough to work, belongs to the group of Chester sandstone. 'There are fine displays of this sandstone at Buena Vista and elsewhere. The principal stone of the township lies next underneath the sandstone and belongs to the Upper St. Louis Group of limestone. The formation of strata on Section 7 is as follows:

Chester sandstone, containing stigmaria ficoides, and calamites canne formis, Weather WOEN...cccccecssecaracccasccccteccncc cos cantencecececettatts 20

Limestone (Upper St. Louis Group) light gray, hard, silicious, and irregularly bedded, containing zaphrentis spinulosa Athyristrinuclua, Pellerophon sablaevis and Syringopora multattennata..... 30

This table illustrates the stone wealth of the township. Sandstone and limestone are both found in abundance. The iron deposits are rich, and furnish all wells and springs with tonic for the blood. The soil is rich and the timber is less stripped of its finer grades by vandals than other portions of the county contiguous to railroads. In short, Indian Creek is one of the best townships of the county.

Government Land Entries

The following entries of land were made in the year 1816: William Bigger, Richard Beem and John Kutch on Section 1; Isaac Withers on Section 3; John M. Sadler on Section 6; Archibald Wood on the same section ; John Storm on Section 12; William King and John Storm on Section 13; Henry Speed on Section 19; John Storm and Elzy Woodward on 20; Archibald Wood on 30. In 1817 the following entries were made: Moses Olds on Section 1; William Crum, James Wright and William Leahy on 2; Benjamin Freeland on 5; Benjamin Freeland 450 acres on Section 7; John White, Isaiah Wright and James Wright on Section 11; James Wright, James Mitchell and Jacob Beals on 12, and the latter also on 24; William Wyman on 25; James Wright on 26; Thomas Wilson, Alexander Clark each 160 acres on Section 33; Zachariah Dicks 160 acres on 34; William Wright and James Smith on 35. John Burch bought a tract on Section 5 on the 11th of November, 1819. Peter Sansiford bought on Section 18 in 1823. Lemuel and Joel Sexson bought on Sections 19 and 20 in 1827 and 1828. Joseph Arthur bought on 21 in 1818, and Richard Wright on 23 the same year. Solomon Morgan bought 160 acres on Section 24 in 1829. Caleb Lowder bought 80 acres on Section 27 in 1819. Jonathan Howell' on 28 in 1818; Alexander Clark on 34 in 1818; William Jones on 34 in 1825. This comprises all the entries prior to 1830.

The First Families

Among the early settlers of the township were the Dicks, the Lambs, the Crums, the Burches, the Morgans, the Walkers, the Wrights, the Mays, the Joneses, the Easts, the Clarks, the Adamses, the Carpenters, the Tatums, the Oliphants, the Carmichaels, the Brosfields, the Penningtons, the Phillips, the Teagues, the Graves, the Smiths, the Gwinns, the Treadways, the Turners, and many others. It is probable that Lamb was the first permanent settler, though the Walkers were in early and also the Easts, the Wrights, the Burches and others whose names have escaped the recollection of the old settlers. The first settlers were scattered over the township in rude log cabins surrounded by small open tracts of cultivated land which were inclosed by rail fences made by the settlers. Neighbors lived miles apart, but intercourse was begun and kept up.

Milling Enterprises

Owing to the fact that Indian Creek Township had no streams of sufficient size, there were no early mills or other industries operated by water-power in early years. Two or three hand mills and horse mills were operated in several neighborhoods at times, but no mills of wide popularity and patronage were built within the limits of the township, unless the old mill in the southwestern part can be considered as such. The old Hamilton Mill in Van Buren Township and the Ketchum Mill in the northwest corner of Clear Creek Township, were the sources whence were obtained the supplies of flour and meal. 'These were the earliest mills which supplied Indian Creek Township. Two or three other mills were built on Clear Creek, and south in Greene County on Indian Creek, at a later date, which received some of the later patronage, though the Ketchum's mill and the Hamilton's mill were the stand-bys, even until a comparatively recent date. A saw mill was started in the southern part at a very early day, and it is said that the first whisky shop in the county was opened in this township.

The Virginia Iron Works

The most notable industry ever in the township was the iron furnace established in about 1839, in the northwestern part, by Randolph Ross, a Virginian, who had been engaged in the same business in his native State, and was familiar with the details of iron manufacture. In about the year above mentioned, he erected the necessary buildings on the north- east quarter of Section 7, employed a few experienced men, whom he brought from Virginia, and began mining from the side of the hill there, crude iron ore contained about twenty per cent of good iron. His tax in 1841 was $52.25, more than that of any other man in the county. His tax in 1842 was $100.49, more than any other man's. He owned 156 acres, the land being valued at $468, and the improvements at $6,360, and his personal property was worth $1,600, making his total taxables worth $8,428. The father and his son, Randolph Ross, Jr., under the name Randolph Ross & Son's Virginia Iron Works, within a year after starting had in their employ about twenty men engaged in mining the ore from the hill, carting it to the furnace, where it was melted and the iron run off into bars to be shipped by wagon to Louisville or Vincennes. The company was incorporated under the laws of the State with a capital, if necessary, of $20,000, and was to continue for a period of ten vears with power to renew the continuance an additional ten years, at the option of the incorporators. If any others had an interest in the works such fact is not now known. It ig stated by some that a portion of the capital was furnished by several Eastern parties, who were members of the incorporation. The facts cannot be stated. Besides manufacturing pig or bar iron for shipment, the company began the general manufacture for the local trade of all kinds of cast-iron ware needed in the new country, such as kettles, spiders, andirons, pots and machinery castings as rude hoes, and a few mold-boards for plows. The most of the iron was thus manufactured into articles for farm and domestic use. After running successfully for about five years, the company became involved in some manner, and was forced to suspend operations. The enterprise had been highly successful, but the incorporators were forced to suspend by reason of having lost heavily in speculations elsewhere, and not by reason of the failure of the iron furnace in Indian Creek Township.

Poll Tax Payers Of 1841

Elijah Tarkington, E. W. Tarkington, Abraham Young, Peter Wright Silas Woodward, John White, Elijah Wright, Thomas Walker, Andrew Walls, William Weaver, Sr., Isaac Weaver, James Wooter, David Wright Elmore Walker, Joseph Walker and Jacob Zikes. The total number of polls was 174; acres of land, 10,394; value of lands and improvements, $52,307; other taxables, $27,117; State tax, $448.01; county tax, $250.08 ; total tax, $698.09. The heaviest tax-payers were: George Adams, $10.52; Charles Burch, $7.58; Isaac Brown, $11.95; Byrd Cambs, $7.53; Richard Carmichael, $8.25; Zachariah Dicks, $7.60; John Evans, $17.72; Spencer Griffin, $5.18; James Gillam, $7.25; Hugh Hill, $5.85; William Jones, $11.40; Lewis Jones, $7.70; Alexander Lamb, $9.65; Elijah Morgan, $6.19; Solomon Morgan, $8.87; Absalom Morgan, $9.20; Abraham May, $7.70; Jacob Myers, $6.12; Solomon May, $7; Randolph Ross, Sr. (iron works), $52.25. His land, the northeast quarter of Section 7 was valued at $6,000, and his improvements at $3,800. He owned 156 acres. Nicholas Shipman, $8.10; John Sadler, $8.29; John White, $7; James Wright, $11.55; William Weaver, $7.15; David Wright, $8.10; Joseph Walker, $5.63.

It is said that the first school in the township was taught near the cabin of Elmore Walker, in about the year 1824, but it is quite certain that another was taught not far from the same time in the Burch neighborhood, and probably one in the Dicks neighborhood. Each of. these schools was taught in a log cabin; two of them, at least, în cabins that had been erected fdr residences, and had been vacated by the builders, who had left the township or neighborhood. After this early date, sessions were usually held in the three localities named during the winter months, first in one house and then in another, shifting the location to suit the majority of children. The Burches were among the early teachers, and the younger members of the Walker family also instructed the pioneer children. In the year 1836, there were three log schoolhouses, and one or two neighborhoods where school was taught semi-occasionally, as the wants of the children demanded. In 1846, the number of schoolhouses had been increased to five; in 1856, there were eight, and possibly nine. The eight country houses were located on Sections 2, 8, 9, 14, 20, 26, 28 and 30. All were log houses except two. The families that attended the house on Section 2 were the Morgans, Wrights, Gwinns, Koons, Turners, Treadways, Perrys, Ballingers, Thrashers, et al.; Section 8, the Burches, Sadlers, Carpenters, Adamses, et al.; Section 14, the Walkers, Whites, Carmichaels, Chipmans, Mays, Kirks, et al.; Section 20, the children of Buena Vista, the Lambs, Carmichaels, Carters, Carvers, Phillips, Tatums, Gordons, Mays, et al.; Section 26, the Stevensons, Lowes, Joneses, Easts, Sares, Hazels, Teagues, Smiths, Couders, Gilhams, Wrights, Millers, Morgans, et al.; Section 28, the Waterfords, Graveses, Dicks, Joneses, Teagues, Stones, Easts and Nances ; Section 30, the Simpsons, Oliphants, Hardens, Graveses, Pedigos, Brasfields, Penningtons, et al. At this time the schools were in comparatively good shape. he following table is the later condition of the schools:

TEACHERS OF 1880-81. eid Rinoration Kind and Size of Houses. JOHN BUST secre. ce ss tecesocetsosaesedsscocetsrees 1 49 Frame, 20x24 feet. Micheli Bunkirk o cosecessvecsecss oari in ARRAS oLa 2 28 Frame, 20x24 feet. Miss. Lou Bennett..cost<ccesretasssesce.--eancrcanens 3 87 Frame, 22x28 feet. Sip Wek COXtONine.ccsecsccnccsacgescssissenensapenneasces 4 45 Frame, 24x30 feet. John Fy Wood ward.2.::.sccccccsseesscsscssecrossesoe 5 48 Frame, 22x28 feet. We OF Burtchiccceccnecaré EASE nDe CERTE SATTA 6 38 Frame, 20x26 feet. Speed Rainbolt .....esssessesessosesereereeoseceeeseee 7 38 Frame, 20x26 feet. E E VA E essed cesscccsccccertensauieaeesaee as 8 40 Frame, 20x26 feet. Scott RMN DOLE eaea Eee E SAPAA E TAAA PASEAR 9 40 Frame, 18120 feet.

Two or three small villages have flourished in this township. In March, 1849, Jesse W. East, proprietor, assisted by Henry Farmer, surveyor, laid out ten lots on the south part of the east half of the northwest quarter of Section 20, and named the village thus started Buena Vista, a name then peculiarly fresh and distinct in the minds of all. Hoosiers. About the same time, Mr. East started the first store, and soon a blacksmith and a few families located there. Since then there have usually been a store, a blacksmith and about a dozen families at the village. John Evans sold goods there, as did Henry Oliphant, Woodward & Clay and others. The present merchants are King & Woodward. Another early town, now deserted, was Palestine, founded by Alexander Sutherland, during the thirties. He was the first storekeeper there, and continued several years, going then to Harrodsburg. Thomas 'Shipman probably succeeded him as the merchant. One of the Koons also sold goods there. Kirkville is a recent village named in honor of the Kirk family. Lane & Carmichael started the store, but sold out to Mr. Kirk, who yet continues.

The first religious class organized in this township was the Methodist Church, founded in the Walker neighborhood, about 1825. For several years, meetings were held at the houses of Thomas Hill, Elmore Walker, and elsewhere in the same portion of the township. Among the earliest members were the families of Thomas Hill, Elmore Walker, David Wells, George Oxsheer, Michael Teague, Burrell Reeves, Joseph S. Walker, Pleasant O'Brien, Rev. Isaac McElroy, Farris Howard, Rev. Lewis Dale and others. This was called Mt. Salem Church, and was famous in early years for the number of its revivals and the amount of good done in the neighborhood. As the years passed it gradually split up, several of the prominent members joining the Methodist Class at Stanford, and several others the class at Harrodsburg, though a few of the old members still remained faithful to the parent organization, which continued to meet in the residences and schoolhouses in the vicinity where it was first founded. The legitimate descendant of the old class is still in existence. The old Hebron Baptist Church, organized in the southern part of the township during the forties, wa3 another class that produced marked effect upon the morals of the younger generations. The Oliphants, Abel Edwards and family, and Joseph Pennington and family were early mem- bers. This class met for many years in schoolhouses and residences, and is still in existence under different hearts and hands. Later religious organizations have sprung up, but none have produced more extended and lasting benefit than the two old ones mentioned above.

ELI BOWERS was born in this county May 21, 1841, and is the eldest of the three children of Peter and Sarah (May) Bowers. During youth, he received the rudiments of an education from the ordinary schools of the district. September 5, 1861, he enlisted in Company F, Yorty-third Regiment Indiana Volunteers; served three years and ten months; re-enlisted January, 1864, served until June, £865, and participated in the following engagements: New Madrid, Island No. 10, Fort Pillow, Memphis, Fort, Pemberton, Helena, Little Rock, Elkin's Ford and Mark Hill, where he was captured, taken to Texas for ten months and then exchanged. After his return, he applied himself to tilling mother earth, and occasionally working as a carpenter. December 23, 1866, he married Nancy J., daughter of William M. and Nancy Roy, natives of Kentucky, and this union was graced by the birth of five children - Emma A., Paulina E., Charles M., Q. Peter and Wilson. Mr. Bowers is a practical farmer and owns a good farm and home of seventyfive acres. He is politically a Republican.

HENRY BURCH was born in Stokes County, N. C., July 24, 1818, and is the seventh of the nine children of John and Judith (Suthern) Burch. In 1819, he was brought to this neighborhood with his parents, where he has continuously made his home. He lived with his parents until April 9, 1840, when he married Rebecca L. Gentry, a union which gave being to fourteen children - Sabra Ann, Damaris (deceased), Thomas B., Gilbert L., Almira J. (deceased), Francis R., infant (deceased), Donnis N., Mary E., Henry J., Luther M. (deceased), Sarah H., Ira A. and Nancy M. Mr. Burch has a good farm of 252 acres. He is a Democrat, and he and his wife are members of the Baptist Church. Gilbert L. Burch was born September 14, 1845; was reared in this township, where ho obtained a fair school education aud grew to man's estate. December 10, 1865, he wedded Nancy Ferguson, to which union three children have been bestowed - Ida G., Henderson R. and Orrin E. In about five years after his marriage, he moved on to a farm near Buena Vista, where he remained for three years. He has divided his time between carpentering and farming. In 1882, he was elected Township Clerk for four years. Hoe is a member of the Masonic fraternity, of the Baptist Church, and is, politically, a Democrat.

WILLIAM F. CORMAN is a native of this county, was born May 29, 1837, and is the youngest of the six children born to Jacob and Mary Corman, both natives of Kentucky. William was reared in Clear Creek Township, this county, where he was educated in the common schools. November 16, 1863, he married Lydia J., daughter of Elijah J. and Matilda Morgan, old settlers of this county. By this union they had born to them six children - Flora A., James W. (deceased), Frank'V., Nannie L., Myrtie and Ellis E. Mr. Corman has followed blacksmithing nearly the whole of his life, with the management of a farm in the meantime, which embraces eighty acres of very excellent and well-improved land. He isa reputable citizon and worthy gentlemen, and in political faith a Democrat.

PLEASANT FOSSETT is a native of Rowan County, N. C., and is the eldest of the seven children born to John and Elizabeth (Moss) Fossett. Our subject was born July 13, 1820, and was brought hither by his parents soon after his birth, where he has continued to reside. When 8 boy, he atbended the subscription schools of bis neighborhood. October 27, 1842, he married Mary Ann Crum, the youngest child of John and Sarah Crum. By this union have been born six children. Mr. Fossett resides on an improved farm of 809 acres. He is a highly honored citizen, a practical and successful farmer, in political choice a Democrat, and cast his first vote for James K. Polk; he has been for twelve years a member of the Knights of Pythias. In 1848, he was elected to the office and served for five years as Justice of the Peace, and he has also served as Township Trustee.

PICKNEY G. MOORE, farmer, is a native of Lawrence County, Ind., was born July 2, 1841, and is the seventh of the eight children of John and Rachel (Lemmon) Moore, natives of North Carolina. Pickney resided on the home farm until December 25, 1861, at which eventful date he enlisted in Company I, Fifty-ninth Regiment Indiana Volunteers, and was in some small skirmishes while en route to Island No. 10, and was in regular battle at Corinth, Miss.; Boonville, Shiloh, Holly Springs, Vicksburg, Champion Hill, Buzzard's Roost, Missionary Ridge and Gen. Sherman's march. He was discharged July 17, 1865, as Sergeant. August6, 1865, he married Miss Elizabeth Bennett, and to them were bestowed a family of nine children, five of whom were named Mary Jane, Ellsworth, Louisa E., Commodore Perry and Edward N. After his marriage, Mr. Moore moved to a farm in this county, where he lived for one year, afterward removing to Sullivan County for seven years; thence to Illinois for four years, and finally returned hither, where he owns a farm of forty acres. Mrs. Moore left this world July 16, 1882. Mr. Moore is a Democrat, and a worthy and respected citizen.

ELIJAH J. MORGAN is a native of this township, where he now resides. He was born August 8, 1818, and attended school but a short time during his youth. January 5, 1837, he married Matilda Goodwine, a native of Monroe County, by which union were born four children - William S., Nancy M., Lydia J. and Lucinda D. May 26, 1846, he enlisted at Ketcbum's Mill for one year's service in the Mexican war, and was present at the battle of Buena Vista. After returning, he engaged in farming, which has been his life-long occupation, on the farm purchased by his parents, Elijah and Mary (Crum) Morgan, in 1817. This farm comprises 160 acres. Mr. Morgan is one of the oldest residents of this township; he is a member of Lodge 173, A., F. & A. M. In 1867, he was elected Justice of the Peace, and served two terms of four years each; was re-elected in 1880, but resigned after serving eighteen months. Mrs. Morgan died October 28, 1883. Mr. Morgan is a Democrat by political preference.

JOEL H. MORGAN is a native of this township, who first saw the light September 12, 1836, and is the fifth of the eight in the family of Absalom and Elizabeth (May) Morgan. Absalom Morgan came to this township in 1817, where our subject has passed his days in the capacity of a farmer. September 9, 1867, he married Emma May, by which union they had bestowed on them three children - Ira I., Laura E. and Walter I.; Mrs. Morgan died June, 1872, and Decembor 28, 1875, Mr. Morgan was united in wedlock with Miss Elizabeth East. To this marriage was born one child - Minnie E. Mr. Morgan is the owner of 206 acres of good land, now his home. January, 1865, he enlisted in Company I, One Hundred and Forty-fifth Indiana Volunteers; occupied bis time in guard duty for a term of one year. Mr. Morgan isa practical farmer, a good citizen, and a member of the Odd Fellow and Knights of Pythias brotherhoods.

WILLIAM A. SARE first saw the light in this county April 9, 1861, being the only son of Martin and Susan Sare. The father of William A. Sare died when he was a boy, and he was thereafter reared by his grandfather, William Bowen, with whom he remained until ho war nineteen years old. December 31, 1879, he married Miss Serena Jones, the third child of Catherine Jones, and by this union they were made happy in the birth of three children - Sesta, Walter B. and Myrtle 1. After marriage, Mr. Saro lived for about one year, and then moved to his present home, a farm embracing 100 acres of very excellent and wellcultivated land. Mr. Sare has been a reasonably prosperous gentleman; he is by political election a Democrat, and a worthy, honored and promising citizen.

JOHN G. J. SMITH is a native of West Virginia, was born July 24, 1814, and is the seventh child of Anthony and Achsah Smith, natives of New Jersey, who moved to Pennsylvania, and thence to West Virginia. John received a good subscription school education, and in 1850 moved to Noble County, Ohio. In 1876, he removed to this township, where he purchased 321 acres, all of which are well improved. October 13, 18386, he married Isabel B., daughter of Caleb and Margaret Tarelton. Twelve children have honored this wnion - Louisa M., Achsah C., Irwin T., Mary E., Harriet E., Sarah C., John L, Susan A. and Nancy A. (twins, deceased), Emily H., Charles G. and Ida B. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Smith was a magistrate in Noble County, Ohio, for six years; he is a Republican.

Cparres G. Smiru was born in Noble County, Ohio, March 4, 1859, the eleventh of the twelve children of John G. J. and Isabel B. Smith. Ho was reared in Ohio, and there obtained a good education. February 13, 1879, he married Paulina Sullivan, a native of this township, the fruits of which union were three children - Gertrude, Beulah and Ira. After his marriage, Mr. Smith lived with his father until January, 1854, when he moved to his mother in-law's farm, and has since given attention to agriculture and stock-raising. He and wife are members of tho Methodist Episcopal Cburch. Mr. Smith has now a farm of ninety-six acres; he is a Republican.

IRWIN T. SMITH, farmer, is a native of West Virginia, came into the world December 21, 1841, and is the third child of a family of twelve born to John G. J. and Isabel B. (Tarelton) Smith. Irwin T. Smith received the rudiments of a necessary education from the general schools of his neighborhood. While in Noble County, Ohio, he enlisted in Company H, One Hundred and Sixteenth Regiment of Ohio Volunteers, and had the glory of participating in the following éngagements: Piedmont, Lynchburg, Cedar Creek, Richmond, the charge on Fort Gregg, and the pursuit of Gen. Leo, and was discharged with honor in December, 1865. March 4, 1868, he was united in wedlock with Miss Alcensa, a daughter of A. C. and Elizabeth Lawrence, from which alliance descended a family of five children - Philip Sheridan, Hattie J., Doris, Myra and John L. Mr. Smith has been during his whole life a farmer, who came to this township in 1875, and purchased a well-improved, cultivated, productive farm, covering ninety acres. He is a highly respected citizen, a Republican in political faith, and, with his consort, an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

JACOB TAGUE, farmer and stock-dealer, is a native of Stokes County, N. C., was born January 22, 1818, and is the third child and only son of Michael and Catherine (Holder) Tague, who moved to this township from North Carolina in 1829. Jacob received his education from the schools of this township, where he grew to man's estate. May 14, 1840, he married Louisa Jane, eldest child of James and Marzilla King, and to this union were born nine children - Mahala A. (deceased), Martha J. (deceased), Catherine, Lydia Jane, Margaret O. (deceased), George M., James M., Jacob W. and William L. Mrs. Tague died August 15, 1862, and January 29, 1863, Mr. Tague wedded a second spouse, the eldest child of William and Christian Fowler, and a native of Maryland, by which marriage was born to them one child. Mr. Tague resides on a good farm of 958 acres, which is part of his father's homestead. He has in addition to farming, given much attention to the raising and shipping of stock. Mr. Tague is a Democrat and a highly respected citizen.

GEORGE M. TAGUE isa native of this State, was born March 6, 1847, and was reared in this township, where he received the rudiments of a good English education. He lived with his parents until 1867, at which time he moved to Missouri and followed farming for eighteen months. December 25, 1867, he married Espy F., daughter of Alvis and L. Jane Moore, natives of Lawrence County, Ind. From this union has succeeded one child - Jacob E. After marriage, he moved to Kansas and there engaged in farming for about two years, thereafter returning to this township, where he purchased lund and lived thereon four years; he then sold this, after which he followed teaming successfully for a time, and is now engaged in farming. In 1878, he was elected Constable of this township, as which he served for two years. Mr. Taguo is a son of Jacob and Louisa J. Tague.

WILLIAM E. TARKINGTON, farmer, is a native of this county. He was born December 9, 1833, and is the second son of the nine children which made up the family of Elsberry W. and Lucinda (Legg)

Tarkington; the former a native of Tennessee, the latter of Kentucky. William E. Tarkington obtained the rudiments of a good English education from the district schools of his boyhood. He was in the volunteer service during the late war for about two weeks. April 9, 1860, be married Miss Mary M., daughter of John and Mary Thrasher, the fruits of which alliance were four children - Martha J., Ella T., Nettie E. and William. Mr. Tarkington makes his home on a farm of 141 acres which is in good cultivation and has many improvements, und where he has resided continuously since 1859. Mr. Tarkington is a Democrat, and he and wife are members of the M. E. Church.

GILBERT THOMPSON is a native of County Antrim, Ireland, and was born June 7, 1813, and attended subscription school in his native county. In August, 1833, he married Agnes Guiery, likewise a native of Ireland. By this union were born seven children - Edward, Margaret, James (deceased), Joseph, Jane, Martha (deceased), and Gilbert Albert. Mr. Thompson was owner of ten acres in Ireland, on which he lived for several years after his marriage, and which he sold afterward and opened a provision store in Carrick Fergus, Ireland; this he disposed of at a later period, and worked in a ship yard until 1854, when he emigrated to the United States, rented a farm near Bloomington, Ind., for three years, and thereafter purchased his present farm, which includes 103 acres of well improved and highly productive land. Mr. Thompson is a Republican in politics, and be and wife are members of the United Presbyterian Church.

ELMORE F. WALKER is a native of this township, and was born November 10, 1842, and is the youngest of the eleven children of Elmore and Henrietta (Burch) Walker. Our subject was reared in this township, where he obtained the rudiments of a good education, which he completed at the high school at New Albany. December 25, 1861, he enlisted, at Gosport, Ind., in Company J, Fifty-ninth Indiana Volunteers, in which he served three years'and seven months, and took part at New Madrid (whore he was wounded, afterward rejoining his regiment at Corinth, Miss.), Holly Springs. Memphis, Jackson, Champion Hills, Vicksburg, Chattanooga and the Atlanta campaign. November 1, 1868, he married Lucinda Keck, from whicb union sprang seven children - Jesse L., Orpba H., Jewett, Mary A., Bayard, Alva and Emma. Mr. Walker has fought the battle of life for himself since he was ten years of age. After his marriage, he purchased land in this township, and lived thereon seven years, then moved to Lawrence County, but soon returned to this locality, and has since resided here - on a farm containing sixty valuable acres. Mr. Walker is a Republican, and he and wife are active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

JOHN T. WOODWARD, merchant, is a native of Greene Connty, Ind., was born April 5, 1860, and is the fifth of the twelve children of John T. and Lucinda A. Woodward. Our subject was reared in this township, and received a fair education from the primary schools, which was completed at the Bloomington High School, and by one vear at Valparaiso. He has been a teacher for the past four years in this township, and he has also a half interest with W. H. King in a general store at Buona Vista. December 24, 1880, he married Summie daughter of Jerry and Ann Black, through which union descended one child - Roy H. Mr. Woodward is a prominent and worthy citizen, an enterprising and liberal business man, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church by religious preference, a member of the Republican party by political preference, and one of the trusted and promising young men of this township.

DAVID WRIGHT was born near Utica, Ind., November 16, 1806, and is the third of the family of James and Elizabeth (Sears) Wright, who moved to this State in 1816; located in the timber, which they cleared, and thereby made a home. September 14, 1829, he married Caroline M., daughter of John and Elizabeth Kutch, by which union were produced thirteen children - John, James, Alfred, Levi, Jane, Elizabeth, Euin, Jacob, Nancy, Clarinda, David D. and two infants, deceased. After marriage, Mr. Wright lived with his father about a year, when he bought land and lived thereon for six years, afterward purchasing his present home and farm, comprising seventy acreg of excellent and well improved land, on which he has since resided. Mrs. Wright died January, 1881, and January, 1882, Mr. Wright married a second wife; they are members of the Christian Church.

Aurrep Wriaut was born in this township February 11, 1833, and is the third son of David and Caroline Wright. He received the rudiments of a good education; and March 7, 1850, married Eliza Rebecca Boyd. After his marriage, he lived with his father for some years, when he moved to Illinois, remained a few months, returned, and at the division of his father's land received forty-one acres. Mr. and Mrs. Wright are leading members of the Christian Church, of which Mr. Wright is an Elder; they are parents of eleven children - Williara E. (deceased), John W., Minerva J., Laura A., Mary C. (deceased),. Jefferson M., Alfred Perry, Isaac S., David Grant, James M. and Eliza A. F.