Jackson Township (part 1 of 2)

The Entey Of Land

THE location of Jackson Township, remote from any considerable water-course, delayed its settlement for a few years. The valley of Indian Creek, however, was too rich a tract of country to remain long in its primitive state, and about the middle of the twenties the settlers began to arrive, but not in considerable numbers until the thirties, at which time the greater portion of the land was entered by actual residents. The first man, if accounts are correct, to locate permanently in the township was John Hamilton. He came to the township in 1826, and the following year entered a tract of land where now stands the thriving little village of Morgantown. He had a family of five or six children. He was scarcely in the township before he was joined by Daniel Troxel, Thomas Teeter, Samuel Teeter, Robert Bowles, John Shrum. William Williams, Sampson Canatsey and a few others, all ot whom located in the vicinity of Morgantown on Sections 24 and 25. It cannot be stated with any certainty that Mr. Hamilton was the first settler. Indeed there are evidences that he was not. The first land entered from the Government in the township was on Section 1 in July, 1821. by William W. Drew and Elisha Herndon, but if reports are reliable neither of these men resided in the township. William Harriman entered a tract on Section 26 in 1824, but it is stated that he did not reside there. He lived in Washington Xownship. William Knox came in 1828, locating on Section 25, and Charles Ross in 1827, on Section 26. Henry Adams bought land on Section 13 in 1828, and Jesse Daugherty on Section 21 the same year. Finney Courtney and Jonathan Hostetter entered land on Section 26 in 1826, but no traces of their residence in the township could be found. They probably soon sold out to actual residents. Thomas Hudiburgh entered a tract on Section 26 in 1828, and another tract on Section 27 the same time. These were about the only land owners who had entered their farms from the Government in the twenties, but there were other families in the township who were too poor to purchase land, and then again, there were other families who had bought their farms second-hand. The names of such cannot be given.

The settlement received great aocsssioas early in the thirties. It was the custom in that day, and naturally enough, for families to locate near each other. Occasionally a man had the hardihood to go out into the woods eicht or ten miles from any other resident, but circumstances of this kind usually only occurred with the very earliest families, who were sure to be soon joined by others, and thus a small settlement or colony would be formed with the said first settler as the founder thereof. Early in the thirties, families began to locate in all parts of the township, and the neighborhoods of unimproved land were soon a thing of the past. Among those who bought land and settled in the township were ,the following< .Janies Blair, Robert Grant, Elijah Vandergriff, John Gross, Benjamin Roberts, Francis Helton, Thomas Barnes, Abraham Cooper, John Francis, James Hamilton, James Dillon, Robert Bowles, Edward Cheat, Jacob Haase, Samuel Kemp, Henry Kephart, James T. Hickman, Emery Norman, Alexander B. Kelso, Charle3_ B. Kelso, William Norman, John Whitington^ William Kent, JolirT^emp, Jacob Adams, Josiah Clendenen, Samuel Troxell, Jam^B^__Kelso, Avery Magee, Randolph Lawrence, Peter Epperson, Darnel Shireman. David Haase, Daniel Avery, Hugh Adams, Milton Hickson, Daniel Adams, Henry Hamilton, William Kemp, Wilburn Kemp, Peter Dill, Abraham Kephart, Samuel H. Veils, Stephen Howell, William Howell, Thomas Ross, Mitchell Ross, James Little, Charles Leonard, Isaac Gross, Benjamin Reynolds, John Lake, James Kemp, W. W. Helton, Joshua Bowles, Evan Reynolds, Samuel Hudiburgh, Abraham Mull, Jacob Sipes, Joseph Reader, Talmon Groves, William Williams, William Norman, J. M. Coonfield, Peter ReeJer, Anthony Bowles, Thomas Owen, Henry Lawrence, John Kenley, and many others in the thirties.

Poll Tax Payers Of 1842 Ebminiscbnces And Notes

By the year 1842, the township was quite well settled and the citizens were in better circumstances and more comfortable. The log cabin was still the rule, but a few frame houses had made their appearance. The wild animals had largely disappeared. Even deer had become somewhat scarce,' though down in Brown County among the precipitous ravines and almost impenetrable woods, all of the native wild animals could still be found, not excepting bears and panthers. These were rare, but still they were there for the hunter who had sufficient courage to follow them to their lairs. Deer were very numerous there yet, and many interesting incidents could be told of the hairbreadth escapes of those of Jackson Township who went down there on hunting excursions. Deer, wolves, catamounts, foxes, wild turkeys, myriads of squirrels, snakes, wild cats, etc., etc., were still found in Jackson in greater or less abundance. The earliest settlers in Jackson had a picnic, so to speak. John Hamilton, who lived near Morgantown, tells of shooting wild turkeys and deer on the present town site almost every morning, or whenever they were required for food or otherwise. He would get up just as the light began to break in the East, take his rifle, walk out a few hundred yards from his cabin, and in a few minutes the crack of his rifle would announce the death of either a deer or a wild turkey. The latter in the fall of the year became often very fat. It is stoutly averred by old settlers, that sometimes when they were shot from the top of the high trees and fell the long distance on the hard ground, the skin upon their backs burst open like a ripe pod. >This sounds "fishy '.' now, but no doubt the old settlers state the truth. Take such a bird, pluck it and dress it, and roast it to a ripe brown before the fire-place, and then garnish it with rich dressing and smother it in delicious gravy and the old settlers had a feast fit for the gods. It makes the mouth water to think of it. A great sport in early times was the hunting of bee trees. It may not be generally known, yet it is a fact that wild bees are unknown far out in the wilderness, hundreds of miles from human habitation. They are like the pioneer hunters, and just precede the advance guard of pioneers. It required some experience to be able to find bee trees readily. In the summer the flight of the bees was watched and the direction taken followed. A close and experienced observer could thus trace them to their store of sweets. It could be told fairly well, also, when a bee was coming from the hive or returning. An examination of its honey bags would reveal whether it was loaded or not. If it was loaded and on the wing, its course was a "bee line" for its hive, otherwise it was seeking some flowery pasture. In the winter time when the snow was on the ground, bees would venture out of their trees on warm days, would be frozen to death and would drop on the snow, where their bodies would cause a yellow discoloration of two or three inches in diameter. A cluster of these yellow spots could be seen a long distance - often twenty or thirty rods, and the location of the bee trees could thus be found. The Hamiltons, on one occasion, discovered a fine bee tree on the present site of Morgantown, from which almost a tubful of the finest candied honey was obtained. The old settlers, many of them, did not fare so badly after all.

Incidents Op The Chase

One day Mr. Daugherty discovered a half-grown bear near his cabin. The details of the encounter which occurred are not fully known, but were about as follows : He took his rifle and a big butcher knife and accompanied by his dog cautiously approached the bear, which he fired upon, but for some reason only gave it an ugly wound. The shock prostrated the animal and Mr. Daugherty, who was near, hurried up. to bleed it, but when within a few feet of it the savage animal sprang up, and in a moment was upon the settler with mouth open and eyes of fire. Mr. Daugherty was a man of great physical strength and courage, and when he thus found himself in the embrace of the bear, he began to ply his butcher knife with all his strength and skill. Ere many blows were struck, however, the knife was knocked from his hand. In the meantime, the dog had been gnawing industriously at the posterior extremity of the bear, but seemed to make scarcely any impression. About the time the knife was knocked down, Mrs. Daugherty appeared upon the scene, armed with a sharp case-knife, and probably the broom, and Mr. Daugherty called out to her to hand him the knife, which she quickly did, and the bear, which was weakening from the effects of the rifle shot, was soon dispatched. The struggle had been very short, and was within a few rods of the cabin. The above is the way the story was told to the writer. Another incident is told of one of the Kemps, equally as thrilling. This settler, while hunting in the woods with his big dog, saw a catamount, which he shot at and wounded in the shoulder. He was so close to the animal that as soon as he had fired, enraged with the pain of the shot, it turned and bounded for the hunter, but was met by the dog, and in an instant the two animals were fiercely locked together. Notwithstanding the wound which had been inflicted upon the catamount, the fight had scarcely begun ere it became evident that the dog would come out, so to speak, at the little end of the horn. The catamount seized it by the neck and was furiously shaking it, when Mr. Kemp, who could not bear to see his faithful old dog torn in pieces, rushed up, knife in hand, leaped astraddle of the beast and drove his knife into its neck. This stroke seemed to settle afiairs, as the catamount released its hold on the dog, and was soon dead. During the first few years, wolves were very numerous and often troublesome. Sometimes in the night, when the weather was very cold and snow lay deep upon the ground, they became so hungry and fierce that they did not hesitate to attack even man. On one occasion, Hugh Adams went probably in the southern part of the township for a piece of fresh beef, and upon his return was somewhat belated. He had gone but a short distance before the wolves scented the fresh meat and were soon stealthily following him. The settler with his meat on his shoulders, all he could conveniently carry, first heard the howl of a solitary wolf. This was repeated, and another was heard and then another and another, until the woods behind him were filled with a chorus of the terrifying sounds. The traveler^ anxious for his own safety as well as for that of the beef, hurried on as fast as he could with his load. The wolves came closer and closer and then seemed to hesitate, though they still kept coming up. On ran the settler and on came his pursuers. In a little while, the clearing of home was reached, and soon both meat and settler were safe in the cabin. It was a narrow escape, as he would no doubt have been attacked. He could have thrown down his beef, which would have delayed them, but they would have been all the hungrier and fiercier for the morsel. Incidents like these might be multiplied without limit.

Mills, Distilleries, Etc

About the year 1830, Joshua Whiteley built a small corn-cracker on Indian Creek, just east of Morgantown. Of course, water was the motor, and the wheel was of the tub or bucket kind. It is said the owner would leave it for hours at a time, and, upon returning,, would find the grist ground. He had an old dog that became very fond of corn meal, and sometimes when the master had left the mill to run itself the old dog would enter, seat himself on his haunches and lick up the meal as fast as it fell from the spout. The manufacture of meal was so slow that it would not come down as fast as the canine desired, whereupon he would howl dismally until another mite had fallen. The reader may take the story for what it is worth. A few years after this corn-cracker was built, James Blair erected another on the creek a short distance west of town. This was operated until about I84O4 when it was abandoned. Joshua Bowles also built a.grist mill near town late in the thirties, which ran for eight or ten years and did good work. The old Vansicke Mill at Mahalasville was built in the forties, and under various owners and with many improvements is yet in operation. It was originally built by John Coonfield. David Haase owned a small distillery where apple and peach brandy and corn and rye whisky were manufactured. Considerable good liquor was made here. It was moved across the line into Washington Township, and was conducted after the last war.

This town was first laid out in the month of March, 1831, by Robert Bowles and Samuel Teeters, owners and proprietors. Fifty-two lots were laid out on the east half of the northwest quarter of Section 25, and the east half of the southwest quarter of Section 24, Township 11 north. Range 2 east. For some reason this plat was not satisfactory, as in 1836 the lots were laid out anew (on the south side of the main east and west street at least). The first resident on the present town site was no doubt Samuel Teeters, who located there in 1828. He was afterward joined by John Bowles, John Whitington, Avery Magee, Andrew Shell, Thomas Hudiburgh, Hugh Adams, Thomas Lockhart, John Fee, Samuel Lawrence, William Woods, James Mclntire, John Fesler, William Fesler-, James Pratt, John Francis, Timothy Obenchain, Henry Hamilton, Robert McNaught, Reuben GriSitt, John Hudiburgh, William Fee, Col. John Vawter, Samuel Lawrence, Grabriel Givens, Thomas Teeters, D. D. Meddel, James Blair, J. J. Kelso, and many others. In 1836, the village had a population of about fifteen families, or seventy persons. Dr. Samuel R. Trower was the first resident physician ; James Pratt and William Fesler were the first blacksmiths ; John Pee was the first Postmaster ; Lewis Lake made the first set of harness in the town ; William Adams began selling liquor in 1831, and Thomas Hudiburgh opened a general store in 1832 ; Henry Hamilton began selling liquor in 1838 ; Samuel and Henry Lawrence and Avery Magee opened a liquor store in 1834. At this time the sale of liquor was certainly in a flourishing condition. It will be remembered that many of the early settlers came from Kentucky - the land of good whisky, fast horses and beautiful women. In 1835, Col. John Vawter sent a stock of general merchandise, worth about $3,000, in charge of James Chambers, to Morgantown, but did not go there himself until years afterward. John Fee opened the first store of goods, however, in 1834. He started, it is said, with about $2,000 worth of goods. In 1835, Thomas Lockhart opened a liquor store. Liquor establishments in those days were called "groceries." The other term is used here to prevent misunderstanding. Mr. Lockhart soon changed his stock to general merchandise. John McKinley opened a "grocery" in 1836, and James Norman the same soon afterward. James Reville, an old bachelor, commenced selling liquor in 1836. Thomas Edwards opened a shoe shop in 1837. It was during this year that Martin & Crocker brought to the village about $4,000 worth of goods. A few years later, the firm became Seaman & Crocker. S. R. Trower & Son became merchants in 1837, and Preston Doty the same year. Eli Murphy sold merchandise in 1838. In 1839, H. C. Martin, who had been in with Crocker, started a new store on his own account. E, St. John sold liquor in 1839. Vawter, Hudiburgh, Trower, Fee, the Lawrences, Hamilton, Peter Keeney, and perhaps others, were in business in 1839 and 1840. In 1841, Downing & Gruthridge opened a store. During the forties, the leading merchants were several of the above, also Fesler & Seaman, James Baldwin, Fesler & Egbert, Rogers & Coleman, and others. Afterward came John W. Knight, Andrew S. and James Hickey, John Collett, and on still later. Col. W. A. Adams, Butler, Patterson & Neeley. Col. Vawter continued in business until his death in about 1864. He started back in the thirties, but did not live in the village until later. He became a prominent citizen. R. M. Dill came later. William Fesler was Col. Vawter's partner, and continued the business after the latter's death, and until his own death in 1868. Samuel Hamilton was in the mercantile business in the sixties. His successor was James Horton. Horton's partner later was Rosengarden. James Hickey, J. 0. & J. S. Coleman, hardware; Freeman & Montgomery, Mate Kerlm, drugs, about 1857. The first harness shop of consequence was kept by George and Milton McNaught, in the forties. Thomas A. Rude, drugs; A. C. Payn, drugs; Knox & McPheters, drugs; Arnold & Neal, drugs ; J. S. Kephart, livery, in the sixties ; Rude & Canatsey, same, burned down; Israel Egbert, livery; Lee & Enos, same; Mrs. Eliza Walker, millinery goods, in the sixties.

shop early in the forties. The Feslers were in the same business, together with wagons and buggies, in the thirties. T. J. Lamb conducted a wagon shop later. It is said that William Wood manufactured the first wagons in town. One of the earliest and most noteworthy industries was the linseed oil mill built by John Fee about the year 1835. Much more flax was raised in those times, comparatively, than now. Almost every farmer owned a flax field. The seed found its way into Fee's mill, where it was crushed by iron rollers, heated until the oil had run out and then pressed into cakes, and sold for food to stock. Five or six hands were constantly employed, and hundreds of gallons of the oil were barreled and transported to market. The enterprise continued eight or ten years. Early in the fifties, James McAllister built a woolen mill, where for four or five years large amounts of wool were carded, but no spinning or weaving was done. He also owned a saw mill. Mr. Lang built the big grist mill near the depot many years ago. The grinding has run down at present. William Hickey manufactured large quantities of plug tobacco about twenty years ago, continuing about three years. He used all the tobacco raised for miles around, and brought in considerable from outside points. The present population of the town is about 800.

Present Business Pursuits Education

Schools were started in the vicinity of Morgantown, under the patronage of the residents of that neighborhood, about the year 1830. A log schoolhouse was built east of town, and was used until about 1834, when another was built in town. This was used until 1840, when a frame schoolhouse took its place. John Fee donated the lot. The first teacher in town cannot be named. Milton Guthridge, John Vitito and James Hogeland were early teachers, but not the first. Early in the fifties a new frame schoolhouse was built which was used continuously until the present brick building was built, about ten years ago, at a cost of $3,700, Mr. Demoss being the contractor. Cathcart, Kennedy, Shuck, Morris and others have taught in this house. It is a fine two-story brick building, and is a credit to the town and township. It was built by the township, and is called the Jackson Township High School. It was during the latter part of the decade of the thirties that schools were started in the western, southern and northern portions. In 1840, there were four established schools, and in 1850, three more.

Religious Classes

A class of the Christian denomination was organized at Morgantown early in the forties, among the members being the families of John Fesler, Albert Roberts, John Trower, George W. McNaught and others. The class was small and did not grow rapidly. After a few years they were strong enough to build a frame church in the eastern part of the town. This house was used until the present brick was erected early in the seventies, at a cost of about $3,000. The Methodists had the first class in Morgantown. It was organized not far from 1836. The early membership comprised among others the families of Reuben Griffitt, A. S; Hickey, David Howell, James Pratt, John Cochran, Samuel C. Hamilton, James A. Coeplin, Daniel H. Warner, Larkin DeHart and others. In December, 1844, Janaes Pratt, for flO, deeded to the class a piece of land 31x31 feet on Lot 64, upon which the following year a log church was built. This house was used until about the beginning of the last war, when the present frame structure was erected at a cost of $2,000. The class is considerably run down at present, and needs some evangelist to stir it up. About 1845, a German Methodist class was organized in the northern part. The families of Christian Hess, George Weamer, Michael Knipstine, Fred Miller, David Bowling, Conrad Muth, Fred Truekess and others belonged. The class divided soon, one branch becoming German Lutherans, at the head being Michael Knipstine, Henry Cook, Andrew Gross and others. Their church was built after a few years. Late in the forties, the Mount Nebo Methodist Church was organized. William Howell, Daniel Moore, Mansfield Moore, Martin L. Creed, Ed Ferguson and William H. Jackson were leading members, the latter being pastor in 1851. Their church was built after a few years. A Baptist Church was built at Morgantown in the fifties, the whole expense, or nearly so, being borne by Col. Vawter. It was a brick building, and is said to have cost $2,000. This church was succeeded, four or five years ago, by the present frame building, which cost $2,100. Later churches have been started by the Methodists and Baptists. There are now in the township nine churches. This speaks well for the morals of the township.

The Golb Deposits

THE natural features of Jackson Township are too unusual and inaportant to be passed over with only a cursory notice. It may be stated in general that the high ridge extending across the county east and west, just south of the general course of Bean Blossom Creek, formed the wall against which the masses of ice from the north during the glacial era of the world's history, piled themselves, unable to move farther south except in small quantities, which escaped through gaps in the ridge. Here, then, in the valley of the creek, are the remains of what the ice transported from British America. Here is where the great ice glaciers were stopped and were melted by the recurring summer's sun, and were forced to deposit their loads of Canadian soil and rocks. The tact that south of this ridge the drift is rarely, if ever, found, proves the ridge to have been the southern limit of the enormous masses of ice. All over the northern slope of the ridge and throughout the valley of Bean Jilossom Greek are large quantities of the remains of the Laurentian Hills ot liritish America - greenstone, quartzite, quartz, magnetite, gold, etc. ±5nt the township has valuable native minerals as well. There are rich beds of limestone and sandstone, and large quantities of geodes from the Keokuk beds, which have been left from the destruction of the rocks. The surface soil of the creek valley is composed of the rich debris of the native rocks, washed down the hillsides through long periods of years, and mingled with the warmer sands and clays from the glacial drift. The geodes locally known as " nigger-heads " are very abundant on Bear Creek, and are usually roughly mammalated and homely, but filled with variously tinted or pellucid crystals of silica, with occasional beautiful specimens of calcspar and sulphuret of iron and zinc. At the old " gold placer " of John Richards, on Bear Creek, several of them are geodized fossils of the genera Zaphrentis, Bellerophon, Goniatites and Nautilus. The valley of Bean Blossom Creek was, doubtless, at one time, much deeper than at present, having been filled up with washings from the adjacent elevations. It is probable that at some future time, borings or excavations in the valley will be rewarded with paying quantities of gold found mingled with the famous black sand or magnetite brought by the ice from the Canadian highlands. Occasional pebbles of Canadian white quartz, containing bright particles of pure gold, are found in the creek valley. Gold has been known to exist in the county and in Jackson Township for many years, and persons ignorant of the geologic formations have vainly supposed that there was no end in quantity to the valuable mineral. It may be stated that while gold may continue to be found, even in paying quantities, at certain lucky " placers," continuous quantities are not present, and need not be sought. The gold does not belong here. It was brought from Canada and deposited by the ice thousands of years ago. Numerous gold excitements, growing out of some lucky discoveries, have occurred in the past, during which time companies were formed, leases were bought, sluice-ways were constructed, and long-toms and rockers prepared. The companies did not average in gold more than 25 cents per day. On the contrary, single individualsof California experience, by careful selection of location, have " panned out " from $1 to $2 per day. The most valuable nugget found was worth about $1.10. - It is probable that the best pay dirt lies at the deepest part of the trough of the creek valley. Bores would establish this line ; then, by shafting, the richest dirt may be brought to the surface. The following estimate of gold found in Jackson Township has been made :

The little village of Needmore, situated in the southwestern part of the township, on the Bean Blossom Ridge, rests upon a bench of modified drift. Here it was that the ice overreached the ridge and scalped the original or native deposits of rock, and permitted the glaciers to partially pass over and rest upon the bench where the village stands. Hence th ere are scattered all around the remains of the drift - bowlders of quartz, quartz^ ite, granite and black sand, or magnetite containing gold and a suffcient quantity of garnet " that a bushel may be panned out in a day. -t me specimens of sulphuret of zinc, sulphuret of iron and calcspar are often found. At Baughman's Hill, on Section 9, Township 9 north, Range 2 east, the geologic formation is as follows :

Drainage, Etc

The township has all varieties of soil and scenery. Orchards of peaches are numerous on the hill-tops, and are quite sure and productive. Other fruits are numerous, large and fine. The township is covered with a valuable growth of native forestry, and sends abroad annually large quantities of staves, hoop poles, etc. Three-fourths of the township are drained by Bean Blossom Creek and its branches - Bear, Brier, Lick, Opossum and Plum. The two tiers of sections on the south are drained by Owl, Jackson and other branches of Salt Creek.

On the 1st of March, 1825, the three tiers of sections on the west side of the present townships of Jackson and Washington, as far south as the line dividing Townships 8 and 9 north, were made a part of the township of Jackson, created in Monroe County, of which that much of Brown County was then a part. An election of two Justices of the Peace was ordered held at the house of Banner Brummet, on the last Saturday in April, 1825, with Elias Swift, Inspector. This election was held, but the results cannot be given, except that Banner Brummet was elected Justice of the Peace, and served as one of the Board of Justices of Monroe County. In January, 1826, Henry Kendall was appointed Inspector of Elections in Jackson Township ; Banner Brummet and James Brummet, Overseers of the Poor; John Young and John Hensley, Fence Viewers. The greater portion of this Jack ion Township was in the present Monroe County - five tiers of sections, while only three were in the present Brown County. When Brown County was created in 1836, and formed into townships, the old name - Jackson - was kept for the township in the northwest part of the county, leaving Monroe County without any Jackson Township. The original boundary of the Jackson Township of Brown County will be found elsewhere. It took in all of the present township together with two tiers more of sections on the south, and included within its limits Jacksonburg, the county seat, the name being taken from the name of the township, in accordance with the suggestion of Banner Brummet. The township took its name from the old township which had been named in honor of Gen. Jackson, the hero of New Orleans. The August election in the new township of 1886 was ordered held at the house of James Da,wson. This was true also of Johnson Township. The September elections were ordered held at the house of Simon Weatherman. Ira Wilson was appointed Inspector of both elections. The Justices of the Peace elected prior to 1846 will be found in another chapter. Early in 1837, the township of Washington was created, which took from Jackson the two tiers of sections on the south, and removed beyond its limits the county seat. William Snyder assessed Jackson in 1836. William Murphy and John Hubbard were the first Overseers of the Poor. John Jackson was the first Constable, but within a month or two it was found necessary to have two, and Ben Brummet was appointed in September, 1836. In December, 1836, elections were ordered held at the house where Silas Young formerly lived, and March, 1837, at Georgetown, where they continued to be held for some time. At the first meeting of the County Board, in 1836, a district was established on the " Jackson's Licks & Martinsville road," to extend from the Licks northward to Bear Creek, and William Davidson was appointed Superintendent, and the following " hands " living along or near the road were ordered to report to him for work : Samuel Pogue, Israel Mullinix, Joseph Parks, William Rbbertson, Robert Robertson, Shadrach Robertson, Pleasant Robertson, William Robertson, Jr., Abram Wooden, Michael Fleener, Aaron Fleener and Henry Young. The southern part of this road district was in Washington Township. D. D. Weddel was the Township Assessor in 1837. John Prosser and D. D. Weddel were Overseers of the Poor in 1838 ; John Harris and Christopher Stump, Fence Viewers ; ' S. Robertson, Inspector. In 1839, Chris Stump was Inspector ; Michael Tomey and William Dunaway, Overseers of the Poor ; John D. Kennedy and Robert Robertson, Fence Viewers. John Richards assessed Jackson Township in 1840, and Michael Tomey in 1841.

The First Settlements

The Youngs and the Fleeners were among the very first in the township. Several families had lived on the creek as early as 1823 or 1824, and about this time the first permanent settlements were formed. James A. Baker was an early settler, as was also one or two of the Weddels, John Hubbard, the Robertsons, John David, John Richards, and others. By 1830, not less than eleven or twelve families lived in the township in rude round-log cabins. Bear Creek took its name from the great number of bears which could be found along its course. When pursued by hunters in surrounding localities, these animals made a bee line for the ravines and heavy woods along Bear Creek. The following comprises all the early entries of land in the township and includes the names of many of the earliest settlers and most prominent families. The descendants are scattered all through the hills and ravines where their grandfathers first squatted forty and fifty years ago. The following were the entries in Township 10 north. Range 2 east. Section 1 - James Pratt, 1839; William Fesler, 1837 ; J. M. Williams, 1837 ; John Fesler, 1837; Section 2 - William Marcum, 1837; Sampson Coatney, 1838 ; Jacob Fleener, 1835 ; Section 3 - Preston Doty, 1839 ; A. B. Kelso, 1841 ; Samuel Fleener, 1837 ; John Lake, 1839 ; Section 8 - Daniel Thomas, 1837; Section 10 - Joseph Anderson, 1839; C. H. Hill, 1844; J. W. Baker, 1845; John Harris, 1839 ; Evan Reynolds, 1840; Samuel Fleener, Jr., 1838; Section 11 - Dolly Hickman, 1843 ; Nancy Conatsey,

Histokical Items

Probably the first marriage in the township was that of Jesse Richards and Anna Grove, in November, 1836, by Jonathan Watson, Justice of the Peace. Charles Smith and Irenah King were married by Rev. Jerry King in 1836 also. This is said to have been the first. The Youngs built a horse mill in the western part. at an early day, where a fair article of flour and excellent, coarse meal could be secured. It was quite well patronized. Christ. Stump's water mill, built on Bean Blossom, about two miles west of Georgetown, not far from the year 1848, supplied the region around for inany years. A saw mill was connected with it and the two were operated several years. The old George Grove Mill was built as early as 1835, and was operated about ten years. It was operated by horse power.

George Grove was probably the first man to live at this village. H. was there aa early as 1833, and very likely several years before. He founded the village which took its title from his given name. James Dawson lived there very early before he moved down into Washington Township. Adams & Kennedy opened the first store there in 1836, having about $1,500 worth of variety merchandise. Brooks was an early resident. William Snider came there not far from 1835, and for many years was the leading man in business. Mcllhenny moved there in 1837, and Thomas Waltman soon afterward. William Murphy was another early resident. In about 1839, Jacob McNeeley erected a large tannery there. He sunk between forty and fifty vats, and manufactured leather on a large scale for that early day. His buckskin was well known in Eastern markets. The tannery was conducted until about 1848, and was abandoned after his death, by lightning. A man named Nordyke also conducted an early tannery there. Cooper & Becket were merchants about 1839. W. W. Baker sold liquor as early as 1837. Samuel Lawrence followed suit a year later, and Daniel Parsley trumped them both about the same time. Charles and George McLish opened a store in 1840, with a general stock worth, $4,000 ; they sold liquor, groceries and merchandise, and paid a license of $25 per year. Robert Mcllhenny also started a small store in 1839, continuing to about 1841. T. and R. Pugh were merchants in 1846. John R. Davis opened with $1,000 worth in 1842. William Snider began merchandising in 1847. Robert Mcllhenny sold goods in 1850 and onward. William Banta was in later and also Samples, Peoples & Co. The Watermans have long been in business there, and are yet doing well. The Staples jewelrj establishment has long been an important industry there. All kinds of repairs in gold and silver are turned out, and gold, silver and nickel spectacles and silverware are manufactured. The village had a newspaper a few years ago, edited by A. S. Helm. It also has a couple of lawyers, Waltman & Cooper. A fine grist mill was built by the Waltmans a few years ago. It is now in excellent shape and has a liberal patronage. The population of the village is about 100.

Schools And Churches

So far as can be learned, the first school in Jackson Township was taught at Georgetown about the year 1838, by John C. Marshall. A log building was erected there about that time to serve the double duty of a church and schoolhouse - in fact it was used for everything of a public nature. Traveling small shows exhibited there, and various and all denominations of religion were entitled to use it. Marshall was a good teacher for that early day. He bad received a fair education, but the greatest value he possessed as a teacher was in his muscle and sand. The big boys (and boys were big then), found in him a "master" of the typical character. He taught in many places throughout the county. The second school is said to have been taught in the Anderson neighborhood, probably by a man named Rice, and the third down the creek near the Richard farm. In 1845 there were three or four school districts, and in 1860 about ten. Now there are fourteen. Rev. Eli P. Farmer, an earnest Methodist from near Bloomington, preached the first sermon in the old log building referred to in about the year 1838, possibly 1837. Godfrey Jones was another early preacher of the same persuasion. These men formed a small class of the Kennedys, the Walkers and others. Rev. Aaron Farmer, of the United Brethren Church, preached there in 1838, and afterward organized a small class. The Presbyterians started up there later, and finally built their church, which is yet standing.

This little village, in the southwestern part, is of recent origin. A post office was first established there and a store. At last a blacksmith appeared, and other houses were built, and finally another store was started, and now there are three or four, and the village has a population of probably 100.

Horse Races

Georgetown was a famous place for horse races in early years, as there was a long level tract of ground there. William Snider, Matthew Mathis, Edward David, the Brummets, the Grahams and others in all parts of the county, owned fast horses and would assemble on a given day to test the merits of their animals. Of course, whisky cut an important figure at these gatherings- Betting on horses was carried to an extravagant extreme very often.

Poll Tax Payers Of 1848 Natural Wealth

THIS is one of the most valuable sections of Brown County. It was earlier settled by numbers than any other portion, and that too, by a class whose courage and industry were only surpassed by their cordial though homely hospitality. Many of the earliest came from Johnson County, where they had located at a still earlier date, coming largely from the Southern States, originally. The rich valley of Upper Bean Blossom possessed too many inviting features to be passed by by home seekers. The hills were clothed in fine raiment of poplar, hickory, maple, white, black and chestnut oak, walnut, cherry, elm, sycamore, sassafras; and the luxuriant verdure in open glades revealed the fertility of the soil. And the judgment of the fathers was wise. In the southwest were the vast deposits from the glaciers of pre-historic times. Here the rich washings from the adjacent hills had been freely mingled with the warm sands and loams of the drift beds, and here were the deposits of magnetite, quartz, bowlders, jasper and gold from the Laurentian Rocks of Canada. In this portion of the township has since been found probably $2,000 worth of gold, occuring with but little or no alloy. Both North Salt Creek and South Bean Blossom rise in the northern part, not far apart, and both flow southward within a mile and a half of each other. In the northeast corner is Saddle Creek which flows eastward, and belongs to another river system. High ridges with spurs along their sides occur throughout the township. The stone is not as valuable as in other parts of the county. The following is the formation a short distance east of Georgetown :

The White Settlement

It is next to impossible to name the first settler of this township. It was one of the first to be visited of Brown County. The older counties over east - Johnson and Bartholomew - were settled early in their western parts, and the settlement was extended westward into Hamblen Township. It is quite certain that the first settlers appeared as early as the year 1820, and by 1824 there were probably ten or twelve families, if not more, living within the present limits of the township. The township in about 1830 was attached by Legislative enactment to Johnson County and remained a part of the same until the creation of Brown County in 1886. Upon its creation Hamblen extended two miles farther south, but the township of Washington was created a few months afterward, as will be seen in another part of this work, thus taking away two tiers of. sections on the south, and leaving the territory as it is at present. The first election was held at the residence of James Taggart, and continued afterward to be held there. Mr. Taggart was the first Township Assessor. Daniel King and Cornelius Kirts were the first Overseers of the Poor. Taggart was paid $5 for assessing the township. William King was the first Constable. Taggart also assessed the township in 1837. In 1837, the place of election was changed to the house ot Wiley Guy. In 1838, Eliakim Hamblen and Abraham Chappel were Overseers of the Poor. Jacob Walker and John Maxwell, Fence Viewers ; David King, Inspector. King was yet Constable. James Taggart was Assessor in 1840, also in 1841. In 1841, Mr. Taggart killed an old wolf near his house, and sue- ceeded in finding her five young ones. He took the six scalps to the County Auditor and received county orders to the amount of |8.50. The township took its name from Jesse Hamblen, not because he was the first settler, because he was not, but because he was a prominent man and had much to do with early public afi'airs. This accounts for the peculiar spelling of the name of the township, it being the same as the family name. In 1840, Wiley Guy and C. W. Tucker were Overseers of the Poor ; Conrad Kirts and Benjamin Pitcher, Fence Viewers. The Road Supervisors at this time were Jesse Hamblen, Preston Goforth, and James Parks. Henry Stivers and Sarah Harris were married by L. F. Raper, Associate Judge, on the 29th of July, 1836. Elijah Curry and Mary Richards were married by James Taggart, Justice of the Peace, September 15, 1836. G. M. Parks and Elizabeth Harris were married by Squire Taggart, October 30, 1836. Cornelius Tucker and Mary Hamblen were married January 19, 1837 by William Taggart, Justice of the Peace. Conrad Kirts and Jane Rariden were bound in Hymen's chains, by Squire Watson, April 20, 1837. In 1836, on the old Sparks Ferry road, from the creek at Owen Simpson's to Sections 13 and 14, Pleasant W. Weddel was Superintendent, and was given the following hands. Archibald Taylor, John King, James Kirts, William King, Isaac King, Jesse Hamblen, Pleasant Hamblen, Owen Simpson, William Taggart, John Brown, Jesse Brown, William Taylor, Henry Taylor, James Taggart, Mordeica Weddel, Thomas Taylor, Preston Goforth, Abraham Chapel, James Weddel, Elias Weddel and Eliakim Hamblen. On the same road, from Sections 13 and 14 north to the Johnson County line, James Walker was appointed Superintendent, with the following hands : Ed Duncan, Isaac Bell, John Conner, Benjamin Pitcher, Levi Petro, Jonathan Watson, Willis Rowden, Harrison Stivers, John Gibson, Luther Calvin, William Campbell, John Terhune, Charles Bolt, George White, William Spears, Sandy Walker, Zephaniah Walker, Wiley Guy, Moses Thorp, John Rariden and Josiah Goodwinei

Entries Of Land Industries, Incidents, Etc

It is said the first mill in the county was built on Salt Creek, in this township, as early as 1827 by a man whose name is not remembered. It ceased running about 1835. Eliakim Hamblen built a water mill in about 1838, placing therein a good set of buhrs. He ground considerable grain for about six years. Thomas Waltman built a water saw mill a short distance east of Georgetown at an early day and operated it a few years. William Taylor built a water grist mill on Bean Blossom, also at an early day, and, it is said, continued it about five years. 'Scores of wolves were killed in the township in early years, the incentive being threefold: 1. The sport ; 2. To rid the country of the pests ; 3. To get the bounty ofiered by the County Board. Many bears have been killed in the township. The dogs of Eliakim Hamblen one day treed a bear, and Mr. Hamblen shot it from the tree. It was not killed by the shot or the fall, and sprang up to ran off, but was pounced upon by the dogs. In its efforts to get away, it ran over Mr. Hamblen, knocking him down. The animal was finally killed. The Kennedy corn-field had suffered from the depredations of a bear, and young Stephen thought next night he would get up a tree and watch Mr. Bruin. The animal duly appeared for another feast on the green corn, but the boy was so scared that he called the dogs. Away the bear went with the dogs in pursuit. The pursuit could be heard all the remainder of that night, the deep baying of the hounds reaching a distance of over five miles. The next day the bear was shot near Needmore by Lloyd Brummet. Eliakim Hamblen went to a dear lick one night to get some fresh vension. After waiting some time he saw a panther approaching through the bushes, and, when close enough, he shot the animal dead. Log rollings and house or barn raisings were made very interesting in early years by the presence of many hardy men, plenty of whisky, and many handsome women, who gathered to do the cooking. Thomas McAdams, of Iowa, had this to say in 1878 of an incident which occurred in Hamblen Township :

" It was common in those days, upon the arrival of a new-comer, to ascertain at once whether he had sand in his craw. To illustrate this, I will relate a circumstance which took place under my own eyes. The settlements on Bean Blossom and Salt Creeks were sparse at that time, and it was no uncommon thing for persons to go ten or twelve miles to a houseraising in 1837-38. The Prosser families moved to the vicinity of Georgetown, among them being old Uncle Billy Prosser, who was familiarly known as ' Billy Plumpsock.' He was a man fond of his cups, and usually got pretty happy whenever opportunity offered. A house, in those days, could not well be raised a big jug of whisky. Ho and I went to a raising at Jesse Richards', a few miles east of Oreorgetown, and the old man soon got lively and talkative, and somewhat boastful of his manhood. He being an entire stranger and new-comer, soon attracted the attention of the crowd. It was not long until I overheard a conversation by some of the party present, to the effect that as soon as the raising was over, old Johnny Stivers (a bluff, rugged, old man) should try Uncle Billy Plumpsock a twist. Being anxious to avoid any such trouble, because the old man had come with me, I took him to one side and undertook to tell him what was brewing, and try to get him to go home with me, but before I could finish telling my tale or persuade him off, he began to roll up his sleeves. He commenced walking before the crowd, swearing by all the saints that he was the veritable Plumpsock, and if any one in that crowd had any desire to test his muscle, to just step out and they would settle that while the house was being finished, so that all could be ready for supper at once ; but, suflSce it to say, no one there seemed anxious to try it on, and we got off without a scratch."

Hamblen Township has fourteen school districts. That number is certainly suflScient to supply the children with all necessary educational advantages. There are also five or six churches, so there is no reason why all may not belong to some religious class. The township is not surpassed by any other subdivision of the county in these respects. So far as known, the first term of school was taught in the Taggart- Hamblen neighborhood about the time the county was organized, by a man named Edgington. The house had been used for a dwelling by some pioneer family, and when it was deserted it was fitted up and occupied for school purposes. A man named Rice was another early teacher in the township. John C. Marshall also taught in the southern part. In about 1837, the old log United Brethren Church was built on the Taggart farm, and this, for many years, was used as a schoolhouse ; in fact, the building was built as a combined church and schoolhouse. Schools were supported in that day largely by private expense. The only public money was from the sale of school lands. In 1840, the Township Treasurer received $19 from this fund, which was distributed to the four school districts which then comprised the entire township. In 1843, there were seven school districts, and the fund received amounted to $66.28. In 1850, there were ten school districts. A man named Washington (not the first occupant of the White House) was the first teacher in the old United Brethren Church. Among the members of this church were the families of Taggarts, Duncans, Hamblens, Taylors, Kings, Hicks, Hemphills, Weddels and others. The building was burned down after a few years. Above there, a class of the Christian denomination was organized, the Walkers, Watsons, Chappels, Kirts and others belonging. The Methodists also had a class in the western part, among the members being the families of Mcllvains, Richardsons, Guys, Millsops and others.

remembered. John S. Burns was selling goods there in 1837, and continued for some time. He secured a post office, and attracted a blacksmith to the spot. In 1838, George Sparks opened there a liquor and grocery store, his license being $15. Late in the forties, James Burnes became merchant there, with a stock of merchandise worth about $1,200. Henry Musselman was thus engaged in 1851, and onward for a few years. The village has usually had one store and about a dozen families. Cleona, Ramelton and Mt. Moriah Post Offices are in this township.

Poll-Tax Payers Of 1848 The Rocks, Timber, Streams, Etc

IN several essential particulars, the surface and geology of this portion of Brown County differ from those of any other portion. The northwest part is on High or Central Ridge, just over the line being Weed Patch Knob, the highest point in the State. Two miles southeast of this is the Middle Fork of Salt Creek, flowing across the township in a southwesterly direction. One mile southeast of the creek begins an elevated plateau of a grayish soil, called lacustral loam, and here, with the exception of the usual branch bottoms, is the garden spot of the county. Along the eastern border of the township, this loam has been modified by fresh water deposits, thereby increasing its fertility, and is known as White Creek flats or slashes. On Buffalo Ridge, the wheat crops are habitually large and reliable. On Section 13 is a sandstone quarry, where stone of unusual hardness and durability is readily obtained. It is homogeneous, evenly bedded and easily quarried. Another quarry on Section 35 also furnishes good stone. Layers four feet thick are found ; also bands and concretionary nodules of excellent iron ore. Another valuable quarry has been worked at Wadsworth's mill. The bed and bars of Hamilton Creek are covered with scales and small pebbles of silicious iron ore, washed down from the concretionary deposits of the shaly hills. Excellent fruit, such as peaches and apples, is raised in abundance, and is of superior quality. Very large quantities of tobacco are raised annually.

The Settlement By White Men

White settlers were in this township as early as 1820, and by 1830 the log cabins were scattered in all directions. The bulk of the settlers, however, did not come until the decade of thirties. Natives of the Southern States largely predominated. Many were well bred and all were hospitable, as representatives of the South always are. Many left the South owing to their hatred of the institution of slavery. A sprinkling of Yankees were among them - enough to give the Northern spirit to all public undertakings. The Hattens and the Hamptons were among the first in the township. A man named Bozwell was early also. James Taber, Thomas Brown, James Williamson were in the township during the twenties. The Grosses were early also. When a new settler appeared, the residents all turned out to help him raise his cabin. They often

-went miles to assist, as nearest neighbors were very often four and five miles apart. So glad were the settlers to see new families come in that they were always ready, not only to help them up with their buildings and to become comfortable, but, if necessary, provisions were given them, and their acquaintance was sought and, if deserving, contitmed. It was customary then to goto a neighbor's to spend the evenings; especially was this true in winter. The visits were always enjoyed. The 'great fire place, full of blazing logs, threw out its ruddy glow over the room and diffused warmth, light and comfort to all. A pailful of nice hickory nuts or a plate of choice apples would be brought out and would soon disappear under the fresh appetites sharpened with the sauce of neighborly good cheer, and the ride behind oxen over the frozen ground and through the frosty air. All was enjoyed to the best. After all, though the old settlers had many hardships to encounter and trials to undergo, did they not enjoy themselves as well, or better, than the present generations. They were hearty, robust, and full of wild animal spirits, and the novelty of any and all gatherings was not such as we now know it. A person isolated from pleasures for a time was ready to fully appreciate and enjoy a holiday spent in the simplest manner. The appetite for enjoyment was not cloyed. The simplicity of pioneer life brought keenest enjoyment from simple things,, and the freedom from swiftly multiplying cares kept the faces clear of wrinkles, preserved the hair and ruddy face, and retained the springing steps and the upright figure. The pioneers were contented - were happy in. their lot - and as a result have bequeathed to their children sound mental and bodily organisms and good habits.

The township was one of the first four created in 1836, and was, of course, named in honor of Martin Van Buren, eighth President of the United States. Daniel Hedriek was the first Assessor of the township. Hiram Mabe and William Rippe were the first Overseers of the Poor. Hiram Mabe was also the first Constable. Hedriek was Assessor again in 1837. In 1838, Daniel Goss and James Williamson were Overseers of the Poor. Joseph Hurley and another were Fence Viewers; Jacob Lawless, !^nspector. The first elections - those of 1836 and 1837 - were held at the house of Cornelius Hurley. In 1839, Asa Hatten and James Williamson, were Overseers of the Poor ; Thomas Brown and James Tabor, Fence Viewers ; William Crouch, Inspector. John Hampton assessed the township in 1840, also in 1841. J. D. McKinney was paid $4 by the County Auditor in 1841 for four young wolf scalps. In 1842, John Davis and John Hampton were each paid $7 for seven young wolf scalps. In 1840, John Anderson was Constable ; Asa Hatten and Hiram Baker, Road Supervisors ; Thomas Brown and Job Mulliss, Overseers of the Poor ; John Hill and William Bender, Fence Viewers ; Hiram Mabe, Inspector. In 1836, there were two road districts established in the township on the Spark's Ferry road, 1, from the Jackson County line to Sections 13 and 14; 2, from Sections 13 and 14 to the boundary of the township (two miles farther north than the present boundary). Alfred Young was Superintendent of No. 1, with the following hands: John Hampton, Edward Ayres, Henry Ayres, Samuel Ayres,

Enoch Hampton, Ephraim Hatten, James Williamson, Asa Hatten, William Rippe, John Rippe, William Kenworthy and Thomas Polly. Cornelius Hurley was Superintendent of No. 2, with the following hands: Elias Matley, Stephen Matley, Hiram Mabe, Daniel Goss, Henry Bird, Thomas Brown, James Rippe, Jr., Arthur Rippe, Hiram Rippe, Levi Noblet, John Sinex and John Kenworthy.

Lanb Entries

Fountain Sutherland, James Tabor, Martin Tabor, John Wagoner, James Williamson, H. C. Weddel, Allen Whitehorn, Coleman White, Nelson White, John D. Womack and Thomas Vance. The highest tax payers were I. C. Bender, $4.92 ; Thomas Brown, $5.82 ; David Crouch, $6.43; William Crouch, $4.37; Frederick Goss, $5.40; Cornelius Hurley, $5.50; Asa Hatten, $5.47 ; Jacob Lawless, $8.69 ; total number of polls, 70; acres of land 2,274.77; value of land, $4,211; value of improvements, $5,935 ; value of personal property, $9,069 ; total taxables, $19,215; total tax, $228.19; total delinquent tax and interest, $109.65 ; grand total tax, $387.84.

Christiansburg was founded by Thomas Carmichael about the year 1850. Calvin & Mann opened a large tannery there of about twenty vats. Sylvanus Manville opened a store there, with Lawson Hopper as clerk. In a short time, several families moved there, and a post ofiSce was secured. 'A store has been there the greater portion of the time since. Several churches are there, which are well attended. Pike's Peak was foundec^ about the time of the last war by James Ward, who opened a small store there. A post ofiBce was obtained, and a few families went there to live. New Bellsville was founded at a later date by Joseph Campbell. Buffalo started up about thirty years ago. It is said George Harlan had the first store. Butcher & Bennington were there for a time. The village was quite prosperous for a time. The old Goss Saw Mill on Salt Creek, at Mt. Zion, was built during the thirties, and in an early day had a large patronage. William Crouch operated a mill in the township, beginning late in the forties. John Hampton shot a panther in about 1840. He found in the township a half eaten deer, covered with leaves, and, concealing himself, saw the varmint and shot it. William Rogers and Mary Ann Cobb were married by Squire Goss March 30, 1837. This was the first wedding in the township.

Schools And Chukches

The township has fourteen school districts. The first term taught was in the southwestern part in a log schoolhouse, the Hamptons, Ayres, Browns, Tabors, Noblets, Hollens, Williamsons sending children. The first teacher was an Irishman named Sullivan. He was paid by subscription, and boarded around. The second school was taught near Christiansburg. In 1840, there were four school districts, and in 1850, seven. The old Shiloh Methodist Episcopal Church was organized before 1840, among the first members being the families of Hattons, Williamsons, Browns, Hedricks, Kenworthys, Ayres, Bailses, and others. The log church was built early in the forties, and was used not only for religious purposes, but for school purposes as well. Many an excellent term of school was held there. The Baptists had an early organization, the leading members being the Noblets. Mr. Noblet was a minister of this church. The Campbellites organized a class in the southern part early in the forties. The Bozwells, Benningtons, Phillips, Bridgewaters, Gobies, Pruitts (three or four families) and others belonged. A church was built on the south line of the township. In later years, three or four churches have been erected, so that the township is now well supplied.

The Surface And Soil

THIS is the smallest subdivision of Brown' County. It comprises forty-eight sections in the southwestern part. The entire township, except about two sections in the northeast corner, lies within the Harrison's Purchase, obtained from the Indians by the treaty of Fort Wayne in 1809. It is drained wholly by the Middle Fork of Salt Creek and its branches, Little Blue, Crooked, Grave and smaller creeks. On the northern boundary is High Ridge. The creek flows westwardly through the southern part, and its principal branches rise in High Ridge and flow southwardly. In this township considerable sandstone is foun^ upon the surface, lying scattered on the hillsides in great cubic or columnar form, and often presenting red furruginous or gray alluminous colors. The sandstone below this is often shaly, and disintegrates easily upon exposure. Much iron pyrites is found. The bottoms about Elkinsville are rich and productive with the wealth of the lacustral silt deposited by torrents down the hillsides. The geologic formation in a well at Elkinsville is as follows :

On the knob on Section 10 may be seen a few scattered fragments of Keokuk limestone which once covered the region, but which has since been washed away. They contain crushed specimens of zophrentis archimedes, and other bryozoans and crinoids. Excellent sandstone of the Knobstone beds is also found here in abundance. The water in past ages has washed out this stone and dressed it into cubes three and four feet through, and pillars three by four and twenty feet long. The soil is yet heavily timbered, though the best has been culled out for staves and other lumber. For a number of years the ax has been turned upon the numberless hickory saplings, hundreds of loads of which are annually sold for barrel hoops. Traces of gold have been discovered. Sulphuret of iron has animated the hopes of many a resident and seeker after sudden wealth.

The Era Of Settlement

It is said that William Elkins was a resident of Johnson Township as early as 1819. One thing is certain, he was in the township to live before the Indians were removed, which was done in 1821. Some state that his residence in the county dates further back than that - back to 1816 or 1817. It is told that he came directly from the block-house, which had been built in Lawrence County as a protection from the Indians during the war of 1812-15. That statement is currently made and believed, and if true, would fix the date of his settlement at about the year 1816, and certainly not later than 1817. Some state that he was the first white man to live with his family in what is now Brown County. Others state that old man Schoonover, who located on the creek which bears his name (corrupted), in the western part of Washington Township, was the first in the county. The truth cannot be learned. It is certain that both were in before 1820, and very likely by 1817. Old David Johnson was another very early resident of the township. The date of his settlement cannot be given.- It should be remembered that the territory comprising Johnson Township (except a small portion of the northeastern corner), was obtained by cession treaty from the Indians in 1809, and that the old boundary line, which crosses the northeastern corner, was established at that date. The land was surveyed south of this line in 1812, and soon afterward was open to settlement. No settlers appeared except Blkins, and perhaps Johnson, until after 1820. Then a few families arrived, but no extensive settlement occurred until the decade of the thirties.

Land Entries

The first elections were held at the residence of Simon Weatherman in 1836, Ira Wilson being the Inspector. William Johnson and William Davis were the first Overseers of the Poor ; William FoUowell assessed the township in 1836, and Henry White in 1837, the latter receiving $3.50 for his work. George Orider was the first Constable. Jacob Hutsenpiller assessed the township in 1837, and James S. Woods in 1840. The first bounty for wolf scalps was paid to Andrew Todd. While hunting in the woods, he found a litter of five young wolves in an old hollow tree. He knocked them all in the head with lively satisfaction, scalped them with energy, and took the scalps to the County Auditor, who paid him $5. J. S. Woods assessed the township in 1841. He was also Constable this year, as was also W. H. Bradley. The elections for a year or two before 1845 were held at the house of William Sullivan, but in that year they were changed to the residence of A. Sutphin. In 1840, William Johnson and Andrew Todd were Overseers of the Poor; Arnold Helton and Thomas Polly, Fence Viewers ; Benjamin Chandler, Inspector ; James Fleetwood,. Zachariah Polly and James Bradley, Road Supervisors. The first marriage was that of William Elkins and Mary Polly, on the 20th of July, 1837, Nathan Davis, Justice of the Peace, officiating. The second was that of Dawson Debord and Mahala Woods, on the 4th of November, 1837, by Jacob Hutsenpiller, Justice of the Peace. No, the marriage of John Arwin to Miss "Mernervey" Quick, on the 4th of December, 1836, by Squire Nathan Davis, was the first in the township.

This village is a creature of comparatively recent origin. It started up during the decade of fifties, and was named in honor of the first settler of the township and founder of the village. It is said that Butcher and Bennington opened the first store, and that a man named Morris was in with goods soon afterward. The village was so isolated from other villages that it had quite an extensive trade in early years. It was not long before blacksmiths and carpenters appeared, and soon the population could be numbered by the dozens. It is a thrifty little place.

SAMSON J. ANDERSON, farmer and stock-breeder, was born April 26, 1840, and is the eldest of the family of Allen S. and Sarah Cannatsay) Anderson, natives respectively of Virginia and Kentucky. Samson attended school in boyhood when not engaged in farm work, and lived with his parents until August 25, 1859, when he married Mary E. Terhune, by which union they had seven children, six of whom are living - Rozilla, Lorena Alice, Walter Q., Ettie Viola, Vestal and Ed. S. Mr. Anderson is owner of 248 acres of good and well cultivated land, also with bams and implements, the finest brick residence in the county, and a pear orchard of 1, 000 trees. Mr. Anderson is also raising Clydesdale horses, short-horn cattle, Oxford Down sheep and China-Poland hogs; ho, in company with Mr. Mosier, introduced this stock into the county. He was Deputy Land Appraiser of this county in 1869, 1870, and has a good farm, 120 acres of timber land having been given him by his father. He is an active Democrat and a highly respected citizen.

GEORGE M. ANDERSON, farmer and stock-raiser, was born October 31, 1842, in this township, and is a son of Allen S. and Sarah Anderson, natives respectively of Virginia and Kentucky. George M. resided with his parents until February 19, 1863, when he married Margaret Terhune, a union which was honored by four children - Amanda C, America A., Dora E. and Alonzo W. Mr. Anderson is possessor of 300 acres in good cultivation and improvement, having in addition three good orchards, also the homestead place, which is likewise well improved, and containing one of the best residences in the county. He now lives on eighty acres entered by his father, and forty by his mother. Mr. Anderson is a prominent and consistent Democrat; has been several times made School Director. He is an honored Mason, an upright citizen, and very generally and highly regarded.

JOHN W. BEATY, pioneer farmer and stock-raiser, was born June 3, 1828, in Shenandoah County, Va., and is the eldest child of the family of Samuel and Mary (Stell) Beaty, natives of Virginia. John W. had poor advantages for an education, his mother having died in his youth, at which time he was compelled to labor for a livelihood, and when of age commenced tobacco-raisinig on shares. November 6, 1851, he married Susan Smith, of Ohio, which nuptials were succeeded by three children - William H, Ermine E., and George W. After t£e death of this wife, in 1857, he married Nancy Gregg, by which second union he was parent to five children - John (deceased), C. D., Mary B., Samuel H. and Oscar Allen. Mr. Beaty came hither with his parents in 1844; moved to this county in 1850, and settled in Hamblen Township, and purchased 160 acres, which he improved, and in 1867, moved to where he now lives, having also 150 acres on Bean Blossom Creek; Mr., Beaty was the only Road Superintendent of the county; the law being abolished thereafter. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and a liberal, genial gentleman.

MICHAEL T. BROWN, a farmer and stock-raiser, was born September 6, 1836, in Marion County, W. Va., and is the third child of Dennis and Elizabeth (Toothman) Brown, natives of West Virginia. Michael T. Brown was reared a farmer, and September 11, 1856, married Mary Beach, of Marion County, W. Va. , and to this union were born nine children - John F., Samnel D., Marion L., Rebecca E., Margaret E., Lillie Bell, Martin T., Ann Eliza and one deceased. Mr. Brown moved to this county in 1865, and settled where he now resides on 110 acres, in good cultivation and with many improvements. Mr. Brown is a leading Democrat, a practical farmer, a successful businessman, an upright gentleman and reputable citizen.

GEORGE A. BRUMMET, farmer, was born December 22, 1840, in Monroe County, Ind. , and is the fourth of the nine in family of Joab and Sarah (Brummet) Brummet, natives of Tennessee, and of German extraction. George A. Brummet was reared to farming as a business, and with a meager education. When he was six years of age, he came with his parents to this county, having been early settlers of Monroe County, and settled in Washington Township, where Mr. Brummet purchased 500 acres. Our subject lived with his parents until March 6, 1861, when he married Miss Martha, daughter of William and Elizabeth Snider, from which union succeeded four children - Eli (deceased), William McClelland, Arwine and Thena Catharine (deceased). Mrs. Brummet died September 12, 1875; and January 11, 1877, Mr. Brummet wedded Miss Elizabeth, daughter of John and Elizabeth Brown, and to this second marriage three children were granted. Mr. Brummet moved to his present residence in 1861 ; it comprises 125 acres, which is considerably improved with good buildings, orchards and the like - almost all of which was acquired by his industry and management. In politics, he is a Democrat.

WILEY BURNS, farmer, was born October 16, 1832, in Morgan County, Ind., and is a s(in of Wiley and Mary (Baker) Burns, natives of Kentucky and of Scotch and Welsh descent respectively. Our subject received a fair education and taught school for four terms in this county. September 15, 1857, he married Nancy K. Hastings, of Morgan County, and to this union were born four children - Melissa V., Mattie, Elmer E. and Thaddeus S. ; their mother died April 4, 1872, and Mr. Burns, April 18, 1876, wedded Emily A. Matthews, and this union produced two children - Wiley and Katie. December 21, 1863, he enlisted in Company H, Seventieth Indiana Infantry, and served in the following battles: Resaca, Cassville, New Hope Church, Lost Mountain, Kenesaw, Marietta, Peach Tree Creek, Atlanta, Savannah, Bentonville and the march through Georgia. He was discharged June, 1865, came to this county in 1867, and settled on 1 55 acres of well-improved and planted land, where he makes a specialty of fruit-raising. Sir. Burns is a member of the Masonic fraternity and the Knights of Honor. He is a leading Republican, and was elected Trustee of this township one term. He is an honest man, an upright citizen, and he and wife are members of the Christian Church.

JAMES L. CAMPBELL, farmer, was boru March 18, 1854 in Washington^County, Ohio, and is the eldest of the eleven children of James C. and Minerva (Flint) Campbell, natives respectively of Pennsylvania and Ohio, and of English and German extraction. 0 ames L. Campbell was reared on a farm, and in the lull of farm work obtained some education, and afterward attended for one term the State University, by which he became a teacher, having already taught fifteen terms, several of them in Illinois. The father of our subject purchased 156 acres of timber land in this township, on which he made improvements and resided until

. his decease. March 16, 1863, James L. Campbell married Miss Bachel C, daughter of William and Elizabeth Snider, to which union were decreed two children - Walter and James A. (both deceased). Mr. Campbell is the possessor of 156 acres, with improvements, appointing, planting and stocking, which makes the place a choice and valuable one; he is a prominent Democrat and an enlightened citizen.

THOMAS W. DAVID,, pioneer farmer, is a native of Jackson County, Ind., and is the second child of five boys and five girls of John and Morning (Weddel) David, natives of Virginia. Our subject passed his early days on a farm, with a very limited education; was born September 8, 1827, and moved with his parents to this county in 1835, who settled on Bear Creek, where his father entered 140 acres, and remaiued until his death. February 2, 1846, Thomas W. David married Sarah E. Tomey, to which union were born ten children - Adeline (deceased), Mary C, John E. (deceased), Elizabeth, Serepta H., Willie, Daniel W., Lewis E., Silva V. (deceased) and an infant. Mrs. David died October, 1822, a member of the Christian Church, and February 2, 1884, Mr. David wedded Eliza Jane Hale, a native of East Tennessee. In August, 1861, he enlisted in Company G, Twenty-seventh Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and was discharged after seventeen months' service, and resumed active farm life. He has several times been appointed School Director, and is an earnest Republican. Mr. David moved to where he now lives, on Lick Creek, in 1869, where he owns eighty-five acres in a good state of cultivation,well and variously improved, containing good buildings, orchards, etc., etc.

GEORGE R. EARLYWINE, one of the pioneers of this county, is a native of Bartholomew Coiinty, Ind., and is the sixth child of the family of George W. and Sarah (Doan) Earlywine, natives of Kentucky and resp^tively of German and English extraction. George R. Earlywine was reared to farming, with a fair school education, and lived at home until his majority. He was born June 16, 1841, and February, 1864, enlisted in Company D, Seventeenth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and was engaged at the following heroic battles: Dallas, Tyson's Cross Roads, Noonday Creek, Belle Plaine, Cotton Creek, Stone Mountain and many others, being discharged September, 1865. December 28, 1865, he married Amanda Hendricks, by which alliance were born nine children - William Sherman, Sarah D., Fannie L. (deceased), London H., Willis F., Ordella Jane (deceased), Thomas B., Minta and Jesse J. Mr. Earlywine is owner of 130 acres cultivated and improved. He is an earnest Republican and an estimable citizen.

, son) Fleener, natives respectively of Virginia and North Carolina. Milton was reared a farmer by his parents, wiio came to this State in 1820, settled near Bloomington, where they entered and cleared land. Our subject remained at home until September 28, 1837, when he married Eliza Jane Davison, a native of Ireland, from which union descended three children - Joseph N., James P. and Margaret Ann (deceased). In 1840, Mr. Fleener removed to this township, where he purchased 320 acres, which he improved, and to which he added until he controlled 800 acres. He was elected Constable for one term, Associate Judge tor seven years and County Commissioner one term. Mr. Fleener is owner of several lots in Needmore, also a good store building. He and wife are members of the Christian Church.

LUTHER FLINT, farmer, was born April 25, 1815, in Vermont, and is the youngest child of Porter and Lucy (Farwell) Flint, natives of Massachusetts. In 1827, his parents moved to Ohio, purchased 120 and entered 80 acres, which they improved. December 10, 1835, Luther married Miss Mary, a daughter of Edward and Prussia Edwards, to which union were born nine children, seven now living - Minerva, Prussia, Hannah,, James, Lucy, Miranda and Caroline; this mother died February, 1872, and June 9, 1875, Mr. Flint wedded Lucinda Long, by which union succeeded two children - Jasper and Laura. Mr. Flint moved to this county in 1868, and settled on his present home of 190 acres, containing good house, barns, orchards, fencing, stock, etc., the bulk of which he has acquired by his own efforts, unaided and continued. He is an active Democrat, and a reputable citizen. He and wife are members of the Baptist Church. The paternal grandfather of our subject was a soldier of the Revolutionary war.

JAMES FLINT, stock-raiser and farmer, was born April 13, 1843, in Washington County, Ohio, and is the fourth of the nine children of Lutiier and Mary (Edwards) Flint, natives respectively of Vermont and Ohio. James was reared to farm labor, attended the common schools, and lived at home until September 5, 1862, when he married Isabella Livingston, from which descended seven children - Mary E., Albert M., Jacob C, Alonzo T., Salina V., Lorena E. and Lulu. Febmary 24, 1864, Mr. Flint enlisted in Company C, Thirty- sixth Ohio Infantry, and served until the succeeding September. In 1866, he moved to this county, settled in Jackson Township, purchased 140 acres, mostly timber, which he improved, sold, and afterward bought sixty-seven acres, where he lived three years, and later purchased 145 acres, where he is now living, and which he has cleared, improved and adorned - all the outcome ol his labor and economy. Mr. Flint is a Democrat, and is' now serving as County Commissioner. He is a good citizen, a reputable gentleman, and he and wife are members of the Baptist Church.

LEWIS FRITCH was born in Germany March 13, 1816, and is the second child of Joseph and Frances Fritch, the former a native of France, the latter of Germany. Our subject was taught farming in the fatherland, as well as shoe-making. In 1837, he came to the United States by way of New Orleans; traveled to Hamilton County, Ohio, where he worked on a canal; and there, April 13, 1839, he married Sarah Ann Prail, from which union issued three children - Margaret Jane, James W. and Francis (deceased). Mrs. Fritch died August, 1843, and Mr. Fritch man-ied a second wife March 18, 1845, Ellen Aldrich, to which union sfeven children were born: Joseph P., Nathaniel, Hannah Ellen, McAUen, Andrew (deceased), John (deceased) and Conrad; this wife also died; and November 23, 1858, he wedded Elizabeth Stump, from which last marriage descended seven children - Catherine A., Nancy E. (deceased), Christopher, Frederick (deceased), Isaac M., Mary (deceased) and Martha A. After marriage, Mr. Fritch moved to Shelby County, Ind., purchased sixty acres, sold the same in 1849, and removed to where he now lives, having purchased 130 acres, which he cleared, improved, and to which he added, owning now 255 acres - a comfortable home and

LEWIS M. FEITCH. merchant, is a native of this county, was born August 13, 1851, and is the fourth of the seven children of Lewis and Ellen (Folsom) Fritch. Our subject was raised as a farmer's boy, lived at home until nineteen years old, then went to La Bette, Kan. ; remained two years working on a farm, and returned home thereafter to assist his father. November 1, 1877, he married Miss Melissa A., daughter of Andrew J. and Mary E. (Armstrong) Vaughn, and by this union these parties became parents of four children - Jason H. , Herman J., Lewis A. and Alonzo E. Mr. Fritch farmed for a time after his marriage, and in 1873 engaged in the lumber and stave business, which he continued to pursue until 1882, when he purchased a stock of general merchandise. In 1883, he moved his goods and family to Needraore. where he has continued the business, having an excellent and selected stock. Mr. Fritch has been successful in his venture, and now employs a wagon for dealing in all varieties of produce. He has displayed valuable business traits, and is a popular merchant. In politics, he is a National, and was Postmaster at Richards for eighteen months.

RILEY GORDON, farntier, is a native of Butler County, Ohio, was born September 16, 1832, and is fifth of the family of Riley and Sarah Gordon, the former a native of Pennsylvania, and of Scotch extraction. Our subject was reared on a farm, with poor advantages for education, most of which he gained after his marriage. When nineteen, years old, he began working by the month, which he continued for eight months, and two years later as a teamster. December 17, 1856, he married Elizabeth Jones, with an issue of eight living children - ^Willard G., Ida May, Charles E., MaryM., Edward Riley, Armina E., Olive Q. and Louisa E. Mr. Gordon became a resident of this county in 1869, and in ' 1875, moved to his present residence on seventy acres of good and improved land. He is also owner of 300 acres near Georgetown. He has served as Justice of the Peace, as Land Appraiser for two terms, was Deputy Prosecutor of the county for a time, and now is Deputy Prosecutor for this and Hamblen Townships. His first vote was given for C. L. Vallandigham for Congress.

WILSON HELMS is a native of this county, was . born November 22, 1822, in Harrison County, Ohio, and is the eldest child of Isaac and Rebecca (Mehaffey) Helms, natives of Pennsylvania. William Helms, when fifteen years of age, began to work by the month, and September 28, 1845, he married Mary Ann Smith, a native of Ohio, and to this union were bom eleven children, of whom' nine lived to receive names. Jlr. Helms moved to this county in 1854, settled on Bean Blossom Creek and purchased 100 acres, which he cleared and improved. This farm contains a fiiie residence, good buildingSj orchard, etc. - all self-made, and he has given his children each $600 when married. September, 1864, he enlisted in Company C, Twenty-second Indiana Regiment, but was in hospital during nearly all his term, and was discharged Jaly 17, 1865. Mr. Helms has been generally successful in life, but had his property destroyed by lire, during which his children were obliged to leave the house without clothing, two daughters having lost their lives thereby. Mr. Holmes is an active Republican and worthy citizen.

the ten children of Landon and Drusilla (Hardesty) Hendricks, natives of Kentucky, and of German descent. Thomas H. was reared a farmer, and lived with his parents until November 28, 1860, at which time he married Emmeline, daughter of Jacob and Nancy Hougham; to this union were born five children - Ida M., Emma D., Albert H., Ira and Odus. In August, 1861, Mr. Hendricks moved to Tipton County, purchased 220 acres, which in 1868 he sold and removed to Johnson County, purchased eighty acres, lived twelve years, and, in 1881, came to this county, and now resides on 265 acres, well-improved, cultivated and adorned; he also gives considerable attention to breeding stock, especially Poland-China hogs. He is an active Republican, has served as School Director for eight- years, and is a highly regarded and greatly trusted citizen. Mrs. Hendricks is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

LEWIS JONES, farmer, is a native of Monroe County, Ohio; was born October 3, 1824, and is the second of the seven boys and three girls born to Samuel and Cisner (Hamilton) Jones, natives of Pennsylvania; the former of English-German, the latter of Irish-German descent. Lewis Jones was reared on a farin, but enjoyed very spare advantages for education, and remained with his parents until December 31, 1846, when he married Margaret Ann, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Potts) Turner; to this union were born six children - Mary Elizabeth, Minerva A., John Harvey (deceased), Hannah Jane (deceased), Martha Ellen and Sarah Arm (deceased). In 1854, Mr. Jones moved to this county, settled near Georgetown, and two years later removed two miles northwest of Georgetown, remained seven years, and thence to where he now lives, having purchased eighty acres, well-improved, with good buildings, orchards and the like - the whole an outcome of his will and energy. September, 1864, he enlisted in Company D, Twenty-fifth Indiana Regiment, and served in the following engagements: Savannah, Cheraw, Columbia, Bentonville and numerous others, including Sherman's march, and was in the grand review, receiving his discharge June 14, 1865, after which he resumed farming in this county. LIi-. Jones is a Democrat, has served as Township Trustee, and is an upright man and worthy citizen.

HENRY C. LEGGE, farmer, was born September 16, 1842, in Bloomington, and is the eldest son of William A. and Mary (Hight) Legge, natives of Kentucky. Mr. Legge graduated from the State University in 1861, and engaged in the stock and livery business. In 1862, he enlisted in Company A, Fifty-fourth Indiana Regiment; was discharged after three months, then re-enlisted for three years in Company A, One Hundred and Thirty-fifth Indiana Regiment; was mainly engaged in guard duty, and was discharged honorably as Corporal. December 15, 1864, he married Miss Elizabeth F. Dunn, with an issue of six children - William D., Margaret M., Carter L., Howard W., Emma and Henry R. Mr. Legge moved on the farm he now occupies in 1869; it comprises 165 acres of improved, cultivated land, with good buildings, orchards, etc. Mr. Legge is an enterprisi ag, valuable citizen, a member of the G. A. R., and one of the active Republicans of the county.

HUGH McLARY, stock-dealer and farmer, is a native of this township, was born October 30, 1847, the eighth of the ten children of Hugh A. and Savannah (Lockridge) McLary, natives respectively of Kentucky and Virginia, and of Irish and German extraction. Our subject was bred to the farm, on which he labored and remained until after manhood. January 10, 1869, he married Miss Mary C, daughter of Jackson and Polly Pleener, a union which has been favored with two children - Eosa Ellen and Franklin Pierce. Mr. McLary is a practical farmer and stock-breeder, an excellent citizen and honored gentleman. His life has been passed in this county. He isnow residing on his father's farm at the mouth of Bear Creek. Politically Mr. McLary is an advocate of the principles of Democracy, and he and Mrs. McLary are members of the Christian Church.

EEV. EVAN E. McNEELY is a native of Washington County, Ind.J was born December 28, 1823, his parents being William and Ehoda (Eichards) McNeely, natives of East Tennessee. Our subject's education was a sparse one. His parents moved to Monroe County in 1825, settled near Bioomington, where his father entered land and died some time later. Evan E. McNeely lived at home until January 19, 1845, when he married Miss Mary C, daughter of Wiley B. and Elizabeth Eobinson, which union was enriched by eight children: William W., Ehoda J., Louisa C, Clark E., Joseph W., Susanna M., Emesly (deceased) and Harriet E. Following the death of this lady, March 18, 1867, he married, March 8, 1868, Elizabeth Neidigh, a native of Ohio. After living at Martinsville, Morgan County, Mr. McNeely removed to this I county in lS67, settled where he now lives, and where his wife ha,s 130 acres, cultivated and improved. In 1859, Mr. McNeely was licensed as exhorter, in 1872 as preacher, and still later as a deacon of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is Eepablican, and has been School Director several times.

EICHAED J. MILLEE, farmer and bee culturist, was born June 14, 1827, in Butler County, Ohio, his parents being John L. and Hannah {Whitsell) Miller, natives or Pennsylvania, and respectively of Irish and English descent. Eichard J. Miller worked on the home farm until he was fourteen, when he went to learn the trade of joiner and bridgebuilder, which he followed until 1862, having come to Clinton County, Ind., with his parents, in 1830, and afterward moved to Eice Connty, Minn. In 1862, he enlisted in Company D, Eighth Minnesota Eegiment, and was engaged in many Indian battles, after which the regiment was transferred to the Army of the Cumberland, and participated at Stone Eiver, Franklin and other struggles, being discharged August 18, 1865. He afterward resumed his trade for two years, then engaged in saw milling, moved to this county, again began saw milling, and afterward fell back on farming at his present location ; this place embraces 240 acres, with good orchard, etc. Mr. Miller makes a specialty of bee culture. May 23, 1852, he married Nancy M. McAnly, with a result of ten children, the following j'et living; Eliza, Jane, John F., Bell V., Ida May, Jessie Fremont, Emma E. , Eichard Edgar and Zora Helen. Mr. Miller is a member of the Masonic fraternity and the Good Templars. He was Marshal of Noblesville one term, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

CALVIN MOSEE is a native of Cumberland County, Tenn., was born February 17, 1817, and is a son of Jacob and Polly (Stephens) Moser, both of Dutch descent, who moved to and settled in Monroe County about 1819. Calvin was reared as a farmer, had poor school advantages, and lived at home until March 12, 1840, when he married Margaret Williams, from which union sprang nine children, eight of whom are living - A.

R., Martha A., Mary, J. P., M. S., Isaac B., Eebecca and Katie M. Alter the decease of his first wife, February 23, 1875, Mr. Moser married, ou September 24, 1875, Mrs. Hannah Prosser. After this marriage, Mr. Moser moved to where he now resides, and purchased 80 acres, to which he steadily added until 600 acres had become his, most of which he improved, and afterward sold for the benefit of his children, be now retaining but 350 acres, well improved, planted and stocked. Mr. Moser is a self-made and self-sustaining gentleman. He is an active Democrat, has served one term as Township Trustee, is a valued and trusted citizen, and he and wife belong to the Baptist Church.

AQUILLA R. MOSER, farmer and stock -raiser, was born February 2, 1841, in this county, and is one of the eight children of Calvin and Margaret (Williams) Moser, the former a native of Tennessee, the latter of Indiana. Our subject lived with his parents until his marriage, December 13, 1862, with Clarissa Calvin, which union produced seven children - Alva N., Haron D., Jennie June, Cortez Mexico, Brigham Young (deceased). Jack William and Roscoe La Mar. After marriage, Mr. Moser lived four years near Georgetown, and in 1866 he moved to his present site, where he owns 193 acres, with good residence, barns, buildings, peach and apple orchards, etc., most of which was acquired by his own industry. Mr. Moser is a leading Democrat, and was elec.ted County Commissioner in 1870. He has a half -interest in the gravel road leading south from Morgantown. He was formerly a member of the Grange, and is an honorable man and an esteemed citizen.

CALVIN PLATT, farmer and stock-raiser, is a native of Mahoning County, Ohio, was born August 30, 1823, and is the eldest of the four boys of ErastuB and Julia (Hitchcock) Piatt, natives of jMassachusetts and Counecticut respectively, and of Puritan stock. Calvin passed his boyhood on a farm, attended the common schools at intervals, and so remained at home until he was of age, thereafter working for himself at $12 per month. August, 1846, he married Miss Louisa, a daughter of Thomas Peterson, to which union were born two children, both deceased. Mrs. Piatt died in April, 1853, and in August, 1854, Mr. Piatt wedded Aogeline Camp, of Mahoning County, Ohio, and to this marriage were born seven children - ErastuB D., Julia (deceased), Jabez, Eben, Presly, Elizabeth and Adella. This wife died, April, 1883. Mr. Piatt moved to this county in March, 1855, settled on 160 acres, which he partially improved, and where he remained about twelve years, at which time he removed to his present home and farm, which is well improved, planted, and containing considerable stock. Mr. Piatt has in all 316 acres. While in Ohio, he served as Constable and Deputy Sheriff. He is an active Republican, and a worthy citizen.

DAVID W. POLING was born June 3, 1838, in Marion County, W. Va., and is the youngest of the three children of Jonas and Rachel (Pitzer) Poling, natives respectively of New Jersey and Virginia, and of English and German descent. David W. Poling received a good educa-' tion - so good that he became a teacher, and taught eighteen terms of school. He remained with his parents until August 25, 1858, when he married Ann Eliza Barrick, of Noble County, Ohio, and to this union six children have been bom - William H., Susan A., Henrv B., Ida M., Samuel C. and Fletcher. In September, 1864, he enlisted iia Company C, Twenty-seocmd Indiana Regiment, and was engaged in the battle of Nashville and the Southeastern campaign; was in the grand review at

Washington, and was discharged June, 1865. In 1848, our subject came to Noble County, Ind. , with his parents, who engaged in farming. In 1861, our subject moved to this county and divided his time between teaching and farming; he owns eighty acres at Needmore, besides a house and lot. Mr. Poling was elected Justice of the Peace for two terms, and December, 1882, was commissioned Notary Public. In politics, he is a Republican.