Jefferson Township

Jefferson Township

JACOB BUGHER, merchant and township trustee, was born in Guernsey County, Ohio, January 19, 1826, and is the son of George and Elizabeth (Slater) Bugher, his parents being natives of Pennsylvania and of German extraction. Mr. Bugher was educated in the common schools of his native county, and at the age of twenty began teaching, which profession he followed a number of years, and in which he was quite successful. He moved to Carroll County, Ind., in the fall of 1847, and later traveled extensively over the States of Illinois, Wisconsin and Iowa, teaching a number of terms in the first named State. From Illinois he came to Grant County, Ind., in the spring of 1851, and soon after his arrival engaged in teaching, which he continued several years. He purchased his first land in 1852, and on February 1, 1857, was united in marriage to Miss Mary Smith, daughter of James and Mary (Morgan) Smith, of Ohio. The following children have been born to this marriage, viz.: Anson ©. (G. Urban), Alva E., Jane (wife of Thomas Pierce), Idella F. and Effie E. For a number of years Mr. Bugher taught in connection with his farm work, and has had charge of eighteen schools since locating in Grant County. He was instrumental in securing a railroad station in Jefferson Township, and was the founder of the town of Upland. He erected a large warehouse in 1869, and engaged in the grain trade, which he carried on successfully until 1872, when he abandoned it and engaged in merchandising, which he still carries on. He has a large general store, and is doing a very successful business, his stock of goods being one of the largest in the county outside of Marion. Mr. Bugher is now serving his second term as trustee of Jefferson

Township, and since taking charge of the office has made numerous substantial improvements. He is a stanch Republican in politics and a member of the Society of Friends.

GEORGE CAREINS, deceased. Our subject, was one of the early settlers of Jefferson Township, born near Baltimore, Md., in the year 1810, and when quite young removed with his parents to Muskingum County, Ohio, where he was reared and educated. He married Sarah Cousins, a native of Muskingum County, Ohio, born in 1811, and in the fall of 1849 removed to Grant County, Ind., locating in Jefferson Township. They were recognized as among the quiet, industrious and highly esteemed citizens of their neighborhood, and devout members of the Presbyterian Church. The father also served as county commissioner a number of years, and died in 1863, his widow surviving until 1574. They were the parents of the following children: Mary J., Julia, William T., Nancy, Lucinda, Rebecca, Robert J., Sarah E. and George C. George C., the immediate subject of this sketch, was born on the farm where he now resides May 4, 1852. He was reared at home, receiving a common school education. He married, in 1874, Isabel Girm, who died in 1876, leaving one child, named Maude. He again married, in 1882, Sarah Allison, a native of Ohio, by whom he is the father of one daughter, Bessie. Mr. Careins lived upon the old homestead, which consists of 160 acres of well improved land, with good buildings. In politics he votes with the Republican party. He is an honest, upright citizen, and he and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.

JOHN H. CARTER, merchant and postmaster, New Cumberland, is a native of Muskingum County, Ohio, born November 25, 1832. He is the sixth child of a family of ten, born to the marriage of Isaac G. and Harriet (Josselyn) Carter, both of whom were natives of Maine, the former born in 1798 and the latter in 1803. The father married in Ohio and in 1885 removed to Grant County, and entered a tract of land in Jefferson Township, where he lived a farmer's life, until his death in 1869, his wife having died some years previous. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church for forty years, and highly respected people. John H. was reared at home, receiving a common school education, and later learned the: carpenter's trade, at which he worked for some time. During the past sixteen years he has been engaged in general mer- chandizing at New Cumberland, and also holds the office of postmaster, which position he has occupied for many years, filling the requirements of the office to the entire satisfaction of all concerned. In 1858 he wedded Bathsheba Johnson, a native of Ohio, who died in 1866. One of the two children born to this union is living, named Ellsworth. He again married, in 1872, Lizzie Barnhouse, by whom he is the father of one child, Zora. Mr. Carter is one of the county's worthy and enterprising citizens, is a Republican and a member of the Masonic and I. O. O. F. fraternities. He has served his township as trustee one term, and himself and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

ELIJAH CASE, farmer, Jefferson Township, an old and esteemed resident of Jefferson Township, was born in Preble County, Ohio, April 11, 1817, and is the fifth of twelve children born to William and Mary (Payne) Case. The parents were natives of Kentucky, the former born December 31, 1784, the latter born in 1790. They were married in their native State and in 1829 removed to Grant County, Ind., locating in Jefferson Township, and there resided many years undergoing all the hardships and_privations of pioneer life. The father died December 31, 1855, and the mother survived until 1872. Our subject was trained to farming and has constantly followed that avocation from youth to old age and now resides on part of the old homestead which was entered by his father. October 22, 1840, he married Margaret Starkey, a native of Pennsylvania, born May 6, 1815. Of the eleven children born to this marriage there are two living - Martha A., born August 14, 1843, now the wife of Isaac Warner, and James T., born July 14, 1847. One son, William S., served in the Rebellion in Company B, Eighty-fourth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, was wounded at the battle of Chickamauga, was held a prisoner nine days, and nineteen days after being exchanged died from the effects of his wound. Mrs°Case died August 14, 1878; she was a true wife and mother and a member of the'Christian Church. Mr. Case is a Republican in politics, his first vote having been cast for Gen. Harrison. He is a member of the Baptist Church.

JOHN CROW, one of the leading farmers and stock raisers of Jefferson Township, was born in Green County, Penn., January 15, 1813, one of ten children born to Michael and Nancy (Johnson) Crow, who were both natives of Pennsylvania. The father was a farmer and miller by occupation, and resided in his native county all his life. He died at the age of seventy-five years, and his wife at the age of seventy years, both being faithful members of the Presbyterian Church. The education of our subject was such as could be obtained from the old log schoolhouse, and he was reared to farming. He was united in marriage September 1, 1836, to Miss Nancy Johnson, a native of Guernsey County, Ohio, born January 30, 1817. Mrs. Crow is a daughter of John and Mary (Burns) Johnson, both natives of Pennsylvania and both of Irish extraction. To Mr. and Mrs. Crow the following children have been born: Mary A.; Ellen, William, John, Jane, Michael, Caroline and Jesse. The occupation of Mr, Crow has always been farming, having come to his present abode in 1864. He owns a fine farm of 200 acres, and is engaged in farming and raising stock. Asa Republican he takes an interest.in public affairs, and his reputation for honesty and morality are above reproach. Both Mr. and Mrs. Crow are worthy members of the Presbyterian Church.

WARREN FERGUS, farmer, and a prominent citizen of Jefferson Township, is a native of Grant County, Ind., born September 21, 1837, and a son of S. B. and Julia (McFadden) Fergus. The father of S. B. and grandfather of Warren was Samuel Fergus, a native of the Emerald Isle, who came to America and served his adopted country in the war of the Revolution. S. B. was a native of Rockbridge County, Va., born in 1801, and when a young man went to Ohio, where he married, and about 1832 removed to Grant County, Ind. He was a farmer, a prominent citizen, and held many offices of honor and trust in the county. His death occurred in 1863, his widow surviving until 1883. Warren was raised on the farm, where he remained assisting his parents until he attained his majority, and in the meantime acquired a common school education. Just before the late war he removed to Iowa, where, in 1862, he enlisted in Company F, Twenty-third Iowa Regiment, and served until the close of the war. He. participated with his regiment in the battles of Port Gibson, Raymond, Champion Hill, Black River Bridge, Milliken's Bend, the siege of Vicksburg, Fort Esperanza, and many minor engagements. At the close of the war he returned to his native county, and followed the carpenter's trade for seme years. In 1860 he wedded Nancy J. Horner, a daughter of Andrew and Nancy (Walker) Horner, born Sep- tember 9, 1837. By this union are the following children: Ida M., Oscar W., Emory O. and Elnora O. (twins), Lewis A., Orville L., Edwin ik and Clyde H. Mr. Fergus owns a fine fain with eda improvements, and is one of the thorough-going and enterprising farmers of the county. He is a member of the G. A. R., and a Republican in politics.

EDWIN FERGUS is a native of Jefferson Township, Grant County, and the fourth of a family of twelve children born to Sawyer B. and Julia (McFadden) Fergus, natives of Virginia and Pennsylvania, respectively. Mr. Fergus' paternal ancestors were natives of Ireland, and on the maternal side he is descended from Scotch-Irish stock. Sawyer-B. Fergus moved to Ohio in an early day and from that State to Grant County, Ind., in the fall of 1833. He located a home in Jefferson Township adjacent to the river, entering forty acres of government land, to which he afterward added additional tracts. He became a successful farmer, and at the time of his death, June 23, 1863, was one of the prominent citizens of Jefferson Township. Mrs. Fergus departed -this life April, 1872, at the age of seventy-two years. Edwin Fergus was raised in Jefferson Township, and received a limited education in the common schools. He assisted his, father until attaining his' majority, when he began working for himself at the carpenter's trade, which he followed for a period of fifteen years. He engaged in farming in 1875, locating upon his present place, which represents the results of his own industry. He was married, December 31, 1874, to Miss Lydia M. Jones, daughter of Joshua Jones, a union that has been blessed with the birth of three children, viz.: Ada E. (deceased), Carl B. and Edna A. Fergus. Mr. Fergus served a short time in the army as a member of Company F, Thirty-second Indiana Infantry, enlisting in 1864, and serving until May 11, 1865. He isa Republican in politics, and an estimable gentleman in every respect.

JOSEPH C. HORNER, farmer and stock raiser, was born in Rockbridge County, Va., January 28, 1832, and is the son of Andrew and Nancy (Walker) Harner, natives of Pennsylvania and Virginia, respectively. Andrew Horner was a miller by occupation. He emigrated to Virginia in an early day, and in 1834 to Miami County, Ohio, where he engaged in farming. In 1851 he came to Grant County, Ind., and remained here until his:death. Joseph C. Horner was taken to Ohio in his infancy, and remained in that

State until his return to Grant County in the year 1850. He began life for himself as a farm laborer, and in 1853 went with a number of others to California, making the trip via New York and the isthmus of Panama. He was engaged in mining for three years and during that time met with many interesting experiences. He returned home in 1856, and later went to Missouri where he purchased land and remained a short time. After this he made a second trip to the gold regions crossing the plains and remaining away about one year, returning to Grant County at the end of that time and engaged in agricultural pursuits which he has since followed. He purchased his present home place of 160 acres in the fall of 1862, and is now one of the substantial farmers of Jefferson. Mr. Horner was married, September 20, 1860, to Miss Arminda H. Pugh, who was born in Grant County on the 7th of April, 1838. Mr. and Mrs. Horner are the parents of the following children, viz.: Elzona H., Inis G., Eva T., Nancy E., Maggie E. (deceased), Verona M., Adona L. and Denver L. Soon after his marriage Mr. Horner moved to McDonough County, Il., where he remained two years, returning to Grant County at the end of that time, and residing here ever since. Mr. Horner is a member of the I. O. O. F. and votes with the Democratic party. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

DAVID HORNER, farmer and stock raiser, son of Andrew Horner, was born in Miami County, Ohio, April 20, 1834. He was raised on a farm, and at the early age of fourteen began working for himself as a farm laborer, his compensation being $6 per month. He came to Grant County about the year 1851, from which time until 1855 he assisted his father in clearing the home farm. He then went to Bureau County, IIl., and engaged as a farm hand, and later rented land in that State, where he remained about three and a half years, returning to Grant County in 1860. On the 6th of June, 1861, he was married to Miss Mary McPharen, a native of Grant County, and daughter of James and Jane (Shaw) McPharen, of Ohio. The following are the children born to this marriage, viz.: Alva L., James A., Lydia R., Arza O. (deceased), Idalla E., Aniva and Harry Horner. On returning to Grant County Mr. Horner purchased a small farm in Richland Township, to which he has since added until he now owns 160 acres of fine land, all of which has been acquired by his own exertions. He cast his first

JAMES H. LINDER is a native of Muskingum County, Ohio, and the fifth of a family of seven children born to Jacob and Elsie (Honnold) Linder, of Pennsylvania and Virginia, respectively. Jacob Linder went with his parents to Ohio when quite young, and was a resident of that State until the fall of 1839, at which time he came to Grant County, Ind. He entered land here and experienced all the inconveniences of pioneer life for a number of years and became one of the permanent citizens of the community in which he resided. He took an active part in the development of the county and died at the age of sixty-four years. His wife survived him until April, 1884, dying then at the advanced age of eighty years. James H. Linder was five years old when. his parents moved to Grant County, and from that early age to the present has been an honored resident of Jefferson Township. He grew to manhood on the farm and attended the schools of the county when he could be spared from home, which was not often, consequently his educational training was somewhat limited. He began life for himself at the age of twenty-one on a tract of land given him by his father; and soon afterward purchased an additional tract to which he has added from time to time until he now owns a valuable farm of 240 acres, 200 acres of which are in cultivation. Mr. Linder remained with his parents until his twenty-seventh year, at which time, August, 1860, he married Miss Martha E. Watson, and immediately thereafter moved to his farm upon which he has since resided. Mrs. Linder was born in Jefferson Township April 13, 1841, and is the daughter of John Watson. Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Linder: Philena, Lemon M., Ella, Nora and Lettie Linder. Mr. Linder is one of the prominent citizens of Jefferson, and enjoys the respect and confidence of all who know him. He cast his first vote in 1856 for Mr. Bell, but is now a stanch Republican, having been identified with that party ever since its organization. "He and wife are members of the Methodist Church.

JOHN LUCAS, a native of the county in which he now resides, was born September 11, 1844. His parents were Thomas M. and Mary M. (Schumaker) Lucas, natives of Ohio and New Jersey, respectively. The father was reared on a farm to manhood, in his native State, where he also married and removed at an early day to

Grant County. He located in Jefferson Township, where he became the owner of 220 acres of land and resided until his death, which occurred March 15, 1878. His widow still'survives hima. Our subject received a common school education, such as the advantages of his times and circumstances afforded. October 11, 1865, he was joined in marriage with Miss Clementine V. Jenkins, a native of Muskingum County, Ohio, born June 23, 1844, and a daughter of Albert Jenkins. To their marriage have been born this family- Alpheus L., Flora L., William Roscoe, Mary E., Albert M., Daisy M., Ida I. and Charles Ross. Mr. Lucas has followed farming all his life, owning, at the present time, seventy-one acres of good land, and is looked upon as one of the best citizens of Jefferson Township. He is a Democrat in politics.

JOHN LYON, a retired farmer, was born in Frederick County, Va., September 14, 1806. He is the sixth child in a family of eleven children, born to Richard and Eleanor (McBride) Lyon, natives of Maryland and Virginia, respectively, and of English and Irish extraction. The father was a farmer by occupation, and moved to Guernsey County, Ohio, in 1822, thence to Morgan County, Ohio, in 1828, where he continued to reside for a number of years. In 1849 he removed to Grant County, where he passed the remainder of his years, his death occurring October 1, 1851, at the advanced age of eighty-two years. His widow survived him until April, 1853, dying at the age of seventy-eight years. They were highly esteemed people, and life-long members of the Baptist Church. John Lyon passed his youth at hard work, with limited advantages, though he managed to secure a fair education. At the age of sixteen years he came with his parents to Ohio, and upon arriving at man's estate began to work for himself as a day laborer. He worked on the national road for $7 per month, and on the Cleveland & Portsmouth Canal for $11 per month, and later engaged in tobacco raising, from which he procured money to purchase eighty acres of forest land. In 1828 he came to Grant County, remaining but a short time, returning to Ohio, where he continued to reside until 1836, at which date he again came to Grant County, and entered eighty acres of land, which comprises part of his present home. On J uly 26, 1836, he was married to Miss Nancy McVicker, a native of Guernsey County, Ohio, born December 11, 1815, who came with her parents to Grant County in 1834. After a long life of usefulness Mrs. Lyon died in 1876, after blessing her husband with a family of ten children, of whom six sons grew to manhood. Mr. Lyon: now resides upon a farm of 320 acres, which he entered from the government, and since his settlement here has been among the most influential and upright citizens of the county. He has gained many friends and few enemies, and it is earnestly hoped that he will continue to live many years in full enjoyment of a well-spent life. Mr. Lyon has been a life-long Democrat until the past few years since which time he has inclined in his belief to the doctrines of the Prohibition party.

JOSIAH M. MILLER, farmer and stock raiser, is a native of Jefferson Township, Grant Co., Ind., his birth occurring May 12, 1851. His father, John 8. Miller, was a native of Virginia, born October 24, 1808; he being the eldest son and left an orphan when about twenty was, required to care for the family. He, in 1833, with his brothers and sisters, removed westward to Fairfield County, Ohio, where they followed agricultural pursuits and continued to live until 1838. . In this year he, with his brother Jeremiah, came to Grant County, and locating a claim began improving it, on which he continued to reside until his death, which event occurred November 27, 1875, dying at the age of eighty-seven years. His widow, who was formerly Miss Mary A. Miles, still survives him, and lives on the home farm. Josiah M. was reared in his native county, receiving in youth but a common school education. He selected farming as his vocation through life, as his father before him, and commenced on the home farm, which consisted of 160 acres, to which he has added by purchase until he now owns a fine farm of 550 acres and is called the "Milldo Meadow Farm." MHeis also one of the foremost stock raisers in the county. His cattle are excellent specimens of the Short-horn stock; his hogs are of the Poland-China breed, and his sheep, of which he makes a specialty, are of the Merino and Cotswold breed. He is also one of the largest potato raisers in the county. Mr. Miller is himself a young man of energy and industrious habits. He has never taken any active part in politics, contenting himself with simply depositing a Democratic ballot at each and every election.

born in Bucks County, Penn., in 1797, of German-Irish parentage, and was a farmer by occupation. While still a boy he went to Virginia, and thence to Guernsey County, Ohio, where, in 1827, he married Miss Rebecca Ward, by whom he had twelve children, subject being the third in number. In the spring of 1834 Mr. Needler came to Grant County, Ind., and entered 400 acres of land in Seetion 36, Jefferson Township, upon which he erected a log cabin and began carving out a home. He redeemed from the forest some 200 acres of land, and became one of the leading citizens of Jefferson. He was a man of great physical endurance, and lived to see nine of his children grown and well settled in life, and died in 1881 at the advanced age of eighty-four years. Mrs. Needler died in 1871 aged sixty-three years. George Needler was but an infant when his parents came to Grant County. He was raised amid the active scenes of farm life, and early became familiar with the rugged duties of the same. Being the eldest son his time was required on the farm, but in the winter seasons he attended such schools as the country afforded. Although his educational training was somewhat limited, at the age of twenty-one he was selected to teach the school in his father's neighborhood, and in order to conduct the work successfully and keep in advance'of his pupils he was obliged to study diligently every leisure moment. He taught four successive winters, six days in the week, for 50 cents per day, and earned the reputation of being a very good instructor. In 1853 he began improving a tract of land given him by his father, and on the 22d of February, the same year, was united in marriage to Miss Lydia Cunningham, of Morgan County, Ohio, and daughter of Adam and Mary (Denny) Cunningham, of Virginia, Mrs. Needler was born November, 1833, and is the mother of ten children, seven living, viz.: Mary M., Matilda J., Andrew J., Clementine F., Emizetta V., Charles A. and Margaret C. Mr. Needler now owns a beautiful farm of 200 acres of well improved land, and is one of the most successful agriculturists of Jefferson. He engaged in the manufacture of drain tile in 1881, since which time he has done a very extensive business not being able to supply the constantly increasing demand. He takes considerable interest in political matters, votes with the Republican party, and in the fall of 1882 was elected county commissioner bya very decided majority. He is a member of the Masonic and Odd Fellow fraternities, and, with his wife, belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Biographical Sketches

MARK NEEDLER is the third son of James N eedler. He is a native of Jefferson Township, Grant County, and dates his birth from the 15th of November, 1835. His youth and early manhood were spent upon his father's farm, where were acquired those lessons of industry and economy by which his subsequent life has been characterized. He attended the country schools at intervals during the winter seasons, and made his home with his parents until his twenty-ninth year. On the 10th of September, 1865, he was united in marriage to Miss Mollie Secrest, a native of Jefferson Township, born May 31, 1844, and daughter of Abraham Secrest. Soon after his marriage Mr. Needler moved to a small farm purchased from his father, and going to work with a will soon had a comfortable home. He now owns a farm of 120 acres, situated in one of the best parts of the township, and is giving his attention exclusively to agriculture, in which he is meeting with encouraging success. Mr. Needler cast his first presidential vote in 1856, for James Buchanan. He is liberal in his political views, however, voting for the man instead of party. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and a most exemplary citizen.

JOSEPH NEEDLER, farmer and stock grower, and fifth son of James Needler, was born near where he now lives in Jefferson Township, on the 31st of July, 1841. He was reared a farmer, and in early life attended the rude country schools, where he obtained the rudiments of an English education. He remained with his parents until attaining his majority, and then began life upon his own responsibility as a farmer, a vocation in which he has since ' continued, He has been twice married, the first time on the 22d of February, 1865, to Miss Nancy J. Owings, of Grant County, by whom he had four children: Elmer G., Orlando C., Lacy L. and Lewis L. Mrs. Needler died April 30, 1884, aged forty years. Mr. Needler's second marriage was solemnized on the 16th of April, 1885, with Mrs. Lizzie (York) Miles, who was born in Henry County, Ind., February 25, 1849. To this marriage has been born one child. By her previous marriage Mrs. Needler had three children, two of whom, Nancy and Pearl Miles, are living. Mr. Needler has been an active business man all his life, and is now one of the substantial citizens of Jefferson Township. He owns a valuable farm of 150 acres, and in addition to farming gives considerable a Democrat in politics, but has never asked for political honors at the hands of his fellow-citizens. Mrs. Needler is a member of the Christian Church and a most exemplary lady.

D. M. NEEDLER, son of George Needler, is a native of Muskingum County, Ohio, and dates his birth from the 24th of July, 1832. The father was born in Hampshire County, Va., of German parentage, but early emigrated to Ohio, where he married Miss Jane Titus, a nativeof Bucks County, Penn. Mr. Needler, in the spring of 1837, came to Indiana and purchased 200 acres of government land, forty in Grant County and 160 in Blackford County. He moved to the former tract the following fall, improved a good farm and was a resident of the county until his death, which occurred February, 1848, at the age of fifty-one years. Mrs. Needler survived her husband fifteen years, dying in 1863, aged sixty-two years. D. M. Needler came with his parents to Grant County when but five years old and grew to manhood on his father's farm. He secured a fair education in the country schools, and while still a boy began working for himself. On the 9th of February, 1859, he was united in marriage to Miss Olive M. Adsit, who was born in Clinton County, Ohio, September 11, 1835. Soon after his marriage Mr. Needler located upon the farm where he now resides, and from that time to the present has been a resident of Jefferson Township. He enlisted, August, 1862, in Company C, Eighty-fourth Indiana Infantry, with which he served till honorably discharged, June 27, 1860. During that time he participated in a number of battles, among which were Chickamauga, Rocky Face Ridge, Resaca, Atlanta and others. Since the war Mr. Needler has been actively engaged in farming and stock raising, and is one of the substantial and well-to-do citizens of Jefferson. He cast his first vote in 1860, for Abraham Lincoln, and has affiliated with the Republican party from that time until the present. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and G. A. R., and, with his wife, belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church.

AUSTIN PALSLEY was born in the township where he lives August 25, 1850, and is the only child born to Robert and Mary (Fergus) Palsley, natives respectively of Indiana and Ohio. Robert Palsley was a carpenter and cabinet-maker by trade, and among the efrly settlers of Grant County, where he engaged in merchandising at Elizabethtown. He, some years later, removed to western Iowa, where he worked at his trade and saw-milling until 1861, when he enlisted in Company F, First Regiment, Nebraska Volunteer Infantry. He participated in many hard-fought engagements; was taken sick and died in June, 1862, and now occupies a soldier's grave at Paducah, Ky. Our subject removed to Iowa with his father, where he remained until he was thirteen years of age. His mother dying when he was but sixteen months old, he never knew the tender care of so dear a parent, and at the age of thirteen he was doubly orphaned by the death of his father. In 1863 he returned from Iowa to Grant County, where he made his home with his Grandfather Fergus until nineteen years old. He went to Iowa in 1869, where he farmed for one year, and spent one year in traveling through Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri. The fall of 1871 he returned to Grant County, and worked at the carpenter's trade for several years. February 27, 1873, he married Miss Adeline Scott, a native of Guernsey County, Ohio, born February 24, 1852. To this union six children have been born - four of whom are living:

Milo J., Arvinna J., Ord and Orliff, twins. Mr. Palsley since his his marriage has ee engaged in farming, and now owns eighty acres of good farming land, which is well stocked. He is a thorough-going man, and is highly respected for his many good traits of character.. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is a Republican.

WILLIAM F. PARKS is the eldest of six children born to Benjamin and Eliza (Cook) Parks, natives of New York and Ohio, respectively, his birth occurring in Montgomery County, Ohio, April 29, 1825. The father was left an orphan when but an infant, and in early childhood removed, with his guardian, to Ohio, where he remained until eighteen years old. He married shortly after attaining his majority, and came ¢to Grant County in the fall of 1861. He located in Jefferson Township and resided there until his death in September, 1872, at the age of sixty-nine years, his wife having preceded him in 1840. William F. was reared in Miami County, Ohio, where he received a common school education, and at the age of fifteen began as an apprentice at the carpenter's trade, attending school at intervals until twenty years old. At this age he was able to take contracts and carry on building, continuing in this way for seven years. In 1861 he came to Grant County, locating on the farm where he now lives, and in addition to farming worked at his trade until 1875, since which time he has devoted his entire atten- tion to agricultural pursuits. He owns 160 acres of land, of which 100 is cleared and highly cultivated, and is one of the model farmers of his township. May 8, 1850, he was joined in wedlock to Miss Margaret French, of Miami County, Ohio, who was born December 28, 1836. She has borne him eight children. Those yet living are Charles F., Martha J., Eugene B., Jennie and Ada. Mrs. Parks is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Parks is a member of the Republican party, whose principles he earnestly advocates in his community, where he is eminently esteemed. JOSEPH REASONER, retired farmer, was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., November 4, 1795, and is the eldest son of Benjamin and Mary (Hill) Reasoner, parents both natives of the same State. The paternal ancestors of Mr. Reasoner were natives of Germany and among the early residents of Pennsylvania. His grandfather was a patriot of 1776 and served with distinction throughout that entire struggle. Benjamin Reasoner immigrated to Muskingum County, Ohio, in 1805, and remained in that State until his death. Joseph Reasoner was raised in Muskingum County till his seventeenth year, when he went to Pittsburgh, Penn., to learn to make edge tools, having early manifested decided taste for mechanical pursuits. After becoming proficient in his trade he'worked in Pittsburgh for ten years, and at the end of that time returned to Ohio and engaged in business for himself. He was married, December 17, 1818, to Miss Mary Paxton, by whom he had six children, two of whom he raised: Samuel and Benjamin. Mrs. Reasoner died September 28, 18#2, and on the 18th of June, 1843, Mr. Reasoner was again married to Miss Mary J. Walker, a native of Virginia. Mr. Reasoner worked at his trade in Ohio about twelve years, and in 1828 visited Grant County, Ind., for the purpose of selecting a home, but did not enter land until the summer of 1830. He raised his first crop in 1832, and in the fall of that year moved his family to his new home in the forest. Here Mr. Reasoner experienced all the obstacles and privations incident to the settlement of a new country, but he now looks back to his early experience in the woods as the happiest period of his life. He has taken an active interest in all enterprises for the public good, was one of the strong advocates of our present efficient school system, and has ever been a warm friend to and an energetic worker in the temperance reform. He cast his first vote in 1828 for Andrew Jackson, but afterward acted with the Whig party until the organization of the Republican party, since which time he has been one of the latter's strongest supporters. He united with the Presbyterian "hurch in 1816, and has been a consistent Christian from that time «til the present. He retired from active life several years ago and 's spending his declining years in quiet and content.

ABRAHAM B. RICHARDS, one of the enterprising and successful farmers of Jefferson Township, was born in the county November 11, 1836; is one of seven children born to John and Effie (Roberts) Richards. The father was a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1802; and the mother, a native of Ohio, born 1806. They married in Ohio and in 1834 removed to Grant County and entered 240 acres of land in Jefferson Township, upon which his two sons Jacob and Isaac now live. He was a preacher of the Regular Baptist Church, and organized churches at Harmony, Walnut Creek, Pleasant Run, Taylor Creek and Salem, at which places he faithfully labored, in addition to farming, until his death, which occurred on March 28, 1863, his wife having preceded him in February, 1846. Abraham B., in his boyhood, received a common school education, and a practical farm training. Farming has always been his occupation at which he has been very succesful, owning a fine farm of 160 acres. In 1860 he wedded Miss Martha Beuoy, a native of Delaware County, Ind., and to them were born eight children: Angeline, George W., John P., Henry, Anna, Laura, Olive and Dora. In the late war Mr. Richards served in Company F, Eighty-second Indiana Volunteer Infantry. In politics he is a Democrat, and himself and wife are members of the Baptist Church.

BRANSON ROGERS, a general farmer and stock raiser of Jefferson Township, is a native of Virginia, born May 2, 1819, and is the second son of Hiram and Rebecca (Polston) Rogers, who were both born in Virginia, the former of English-Welsh origin, the latter of German. Mr. Rogers, when four years of age, with his parents removed to Guernsey County, Ohio; then later, in 1829, went to Pike County, Ohio, to reside, and in 1837 immigrated to Grant County, where he has since lived. Being reared on the farm and not unacquainted with the pioneer hardships in the early settlements in the county, he has by hard work made himself a very successful farmer, owning eighty acres of land in Jefferson Town- ship and has forty acres located in Blackford County. April 16, 1843, he was married to Miss Julia A. Monroe, a native of Muskingum County, Ohio, and to this union have been born nine children, of whom five live: Mary J., Perry C., Martha A., Sarah C. and Samuel W. Deceased ones are Harvey J., Keziah, Joseph and Emily. His wife died February 28, 1878, in her fifty-fourth year, and at the time of her death was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics Mr. Rogers is a Democrat.

WILLIAM SANDERS, deceased, was a native of Ohio, born September 19, 1809, to Robert and Sarah (McCormic) Sanders, parents both natives of Pennsylvania. Mr. Sanders was raised in Fayette County, Ind., going there with his parents when quite young and remaining until 1826. He moved to Delaware County the latter year and made that part of the State his home until the fall of 1832, at which time he came to Grant County and settled in Jefferson Township, where he lived until his death, February 17, 1879. He was one of the pioneers of Jefferson and experienced in a marked degree all the obstacles and discouragements incident to life in a new country. He was married in Delaware County, Ind., April, 1832, to Miss Rachel Wharton, who was born in Washington County, Penn., April 2, 1812. Her parents, Thomas and Sarah (Gray) Wharton, were natives of Maryland and New Jersey, respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Sanders had five children, three of whom - Nancy J., Sarah L. and John Sanders - are living. Mr. Sanders was one of the leading citizens of the township and a man highly respected for his many excellent qualities. He was a stanch supporter of the Republican party, and died a consistent member of the Methodist Church.

JOHN SANDERS, son of William aud Rachel Sanders, was born where he now lives, in Jefferson Township, on the 18th of March, 1845. He was raised a farmer, and had the advantages of the common schools, which he attended until his seventeenth year. At that early age he entered the army, enlisting August, 1862, in Company B, Eighty-fourth Indiana Infantry, with which he served until honorably discharged May 29, 1865. He took part in the following engagements: Chickamauga, Lookout Mountain, Buzzard's Roost, Tunnell Hill, Rocky Face Ridge and others. He. received a serious wound in the foot during a skirmish, which caused him to return home on a thirty days' furlough. At expira- tion of that time he reported at Evansville, where he was detailed as waiter in a hospital, in which capacity he continued until mustered out at the time designated. On leaving the army he returned home and took charge of the home farm, upon which he has since resided. He is a thorough-going business man, and enjoys the confidence and esteem of all who know him. He is a Republican in politics, and in the spring of 1886 was elected trustee of Jefferson Township by a handsome majority. Mr. Sanders was married, October 14, 1866, to Miss Mary J. Reasoner, of Delaware County, Ind., daugMter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Dunn) Reasoner. Mrs. Sanders was born October 27, 1849, and is the mother of six children, three of whom are living, viz.: Geneva A., William and Bernice R. Mr. and M:. "anders are both members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

WILLIAM K. SECREST, who is one of the well-to-do farmers of Jefferson Township, Grant Co., Ind., was born on the farm where he now lives August 10, 1839. He is the eldest of seven children born to Abraham and Mary (Fishel) Secrest, natives of Virginia. -Abraham Secrest, the father, removed to Guernsey County, Ohio, with his father's family, where he grew to manhood, and here married May 31, 1838, and the following October removed to Grant County. He entered 160 acres of land in Jefferson. Township, and encountered all the hardships and privations incident to pioneer life, and by his honorable conduct and neighborly ways, he acquired many warm and steadfast friends. He was a hard working and economical citizen, and a credit to the township. He died January 8, 1879, at the age of sixty-six years, followed by his widow April 19, 1885, being at the time of her death seventy-one years old. William K. passed his early life in attending the common school and assisting his parents on the home farm. When twentyfive years of age, he began for himself as a farmer, and as his means increased would add to what he already had, so that by economy and industry he now owns a valuable farm of 540 acres. He was united in marriage, June 17, 1869, to Miss Martha Carman, who was born December 22, 1844, and a daughter of Samuel and Annie Carman, natives of Maryland and Ohio, respectively. To this union:six children were born, five of whom are still living, viz.: Willard R., born March 27, 1873; Annie M., born July 22, 1875; Hanson C., born November 24, 1878; Mary L., born April

22, 1883, and Thomas, born March 12, 1886. Mr. and Mrs. Secrest are prominent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is interested in all matters of public welfare, and is one of the county's well-known and useful citizens.

GEORGE F. SLATER, a member of one of the most prominent families of Jefferson Township, was born in the county August 20, 1864, being the youngest in a family of four children born to William and Mary T. (Marks) Slater. The father was a native of Guernsey County, Ohio, born September 12, 1826. The mother was a native of Loudoun County, Va., born November 26, 1824. They were married January 9, 1851, coming to Grant County in 1853, settling in the township, where they passed the remainder of their days. They were honored and respected citizens. The father died December 15, 1874, and the mother J anuary 16,1879. George F., the immediate subject of this sketch, was reared at home, receiving his education at the common schools and completing the same at the Central Normal School at Danville, Ind. He now resides upon the old homestead, consisting of 160 acres of fine land, which he inherited from his father's estate. He is an industrious, progressive young man and a Republican in politics,

SAMUEL G. STOVER is a native of Augusta County, Va., where he was born December 25, 1843, being one of five living children born to David and Mary Ann Stover, both natives of Vir. ginia. David Stover immigrated to Indiana in 1861 and settled in Henry County, where he has ever since resided. Previous to the war he voted the Democratic ticket, but has since that time affiliated with the Republican party. Mr. Stover and wife were members of the United Brethren Church. He was a strong supporter of the Union, and for this reason made his home in the North. Samuel G., the subject of this sketch, came with his father to Indiana jn 1861. He received but a limited education, for the reason that he was the main support of the family and had little time to attend school. At the age of twenty-one he began work for himself, and for several years worked by the month wherever he could get employment. February 11, 1873, Mr. Stover was married to Miss Emma Shiley, of Delaware County, and to them have been born two daughters, viz.: Florence and Pearl. After his marriage Mr. Stover purchased a farm in Delaware County, where he remained until 1876, when he sold and removed to Jefferson Township and bought the farm where he now resides. The farm is well improved and in a high state of cultivation, and Mr. Stover is enjoying the results of his energy and frugality. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

ARTHUR WALKER, a retired Sixtiler of Jefferson Township, was born in Virginia July 27, 1821, and is one of a family of twelve children born to Joseph and Catharine (McKorkle) Walker, both natives of Virginia and of Irish parentage. Joseph Walker was a blacksmith by trade, and participated in the second war with Great Britain. He left Virginia because of his strong opposition to slavery. He came to Jefferson Township when it was almost a wilderness, and soon built a log cabin, in which they resided for many years. He died at the age of sixty-two years, his wife surviving him twenty years. Arthur, the subject of this sketch, remained on the farm with his father till he was twenty-six years of age, when he began working for himself. He purchased the farm where he now resides, and erected a small log cabin, which long ago gave place to a neat frame residence. December 2, 1850, he wedded Miss Rebecca Rogers, also a native of Virginia, where she was born July 17, 1827. This union was blessed with nine children - five sons and four daughters. Mrs. Walker died May 27, 1883. at the age of fifty-six years. Mr. Walker may be classed among the pioneers of Grant County. He has witnessed the development with no little interest, and has seen the forests give place to the growing fields and the wild game that was once so abundant disappear, and in his way has contributed his share to the work of civilizing. Mr. Walker was a Whig, but for twenty-five years has been a Republican. He has spent a life of usefulness, and is an honest man and esteemed citizen.

JOHN WATSON, farmer and stock raiser, of Jefferson Township, was born in Muskingum County, Ohio, March 15, 1813, being the eldest of six children born to. John, Sr., and Barbara ( Wyrick) Watson, natives of Ohio, the former of German and Irish, and the latter of German extraction. John Watson, the father, was a farmer by occupation, and a soldier of the war of 1812, being under the command of Gen. Harrison. He came to Grant County in 1836, locating in Jefferson Township, and began farming as a renter. He subsequently purchased from the government a tract of land near Hartford, Ind., where he redeemed from the forest a good farm.

About 1850 he sold his farm and purchased another farm of eighty acres, adjacent to Walnut Creek, in Grant County, where he ever afterward made his home, and died at the age of seventy-three years. He and wife were highly respected, and reared a family of children in a creditable manner for that early day. Our subject was reared upon a farm, deriving his education from the oldfashioned log schoolhouse. At the age of twenty-three years he started out in life for himself as a farmer, which has ever since been his occupation. In the fall of 1836 he came to Grant County, where he farmed for a number of years, when he purchased and removed to a farm near Hartford, Ind., where he remained until 1842. At the latter date he returned to Grant County, locating on the farm where he now lives. He now owns 120 acres of good farming land, well improved and under good cultivation, and also raises considerable stock. He married, September, 1836, Miss Mary Lash, a native of Richland County, Ohio, who died about a year later, at the age of twenty-two years. He again married, February 2, 1840, Miss Harriett E. Adsit, a native of New York. She is the daughter of John and Lucy (Runnels) Adsit, natives of New York and of English descent. By this union three daughters and five sons were born, whose names are Olive M., Martha E., Mary M. (deceased), William 8., Henry L., George C., Richard A. and Rensselaer B. Mr. Watson has always been a Republican, but has never aspired to any political prominence. He takes an interest in all moral, educational or other enterprises that go to build up the community in which he lives, or benefit the condition of his fellow-men. Himself and wife have been life-long members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

JOHN WILHELM, farmer and stock dealer, was born in Delaware County, Ind., July 28, 1846, and is the second son of Frederick and Margaret (Dunker) Wilhelm, both parents natives of Germany. Frederick Wilhelm was a farmer by occupation, though previous to coming to this country was a nurse in a Government hospital. He was married in the city of Bremen in 1840, and the following year came to America, and settled in Maryland. Three years later he came West, and settled in Delaware County, Ind. ; thence to Grant County in the spring of 1847. He located in Jefferson Township on school land, and began life ina small way. By industry and economy he succeeded in securing 340 acres of land, and became one of the best farmers in Grant County. He was an ardent Republican, an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and departed this life October 1, 1868. His wife is still living at the age of seventy-three years. John Wilhelm was but an infant when his parents came to Grant County. He assisted his father until attaining his majority, when he began life for himself as a farmer, locating where he now lives in the spring of 1873. He is one of the leading agriculturists and stock raisers of Jefferson Township, owning at the present time 600 acres of as fine land as there is in the county. In connection with his farming interests Mr. Wilhelm has been engaged in other enterprises at different times. He ran an extensive lumber business for four years, operating two saw-mills during that time, and since engaging in farming for himself has operated a threshing machine, with which he has done a profitable business. Mr. Wilhelm was married, April 1, 1871, to Miss Nancy D. Jenkins, of Grant County, who was born August 10, 1845. To Mr. and Mrs. Wilhelm have been born two children: William R., deceased, and Manda J. Wilhelm. Mr. Wilhelm is a Republican in politics, and with his wife belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church.

JAMES L. WILLIAMS, retired farmer of Jefferson Township, was born in Greene 'County, Ohio, November 23, 1826, being the eldest of four children born to Josiah and Sarah (Bayliff) Williams. The father was a farmer by occupation and died at an early age, leaving a wife and four small children. The mother again married, in 1840, Samuel Stafford, who removed to Grant County in 1851, locating in Center Township, where they passed the remainder of their days. James L., our subject, received only a limited education in the primitive schools of the day, and worked at carpentering and on the farm. He married, December 22, 1850, Miss Nancy Chance, a native of Clinton County, Ohio, born January 8, 1834, and a daughter of Parret and Amy (Pierce) Chance. By this union the following children were born: Isaac M.. (deceased), Thomas W., John W. J., Cyrus and Ama. Mr. Williams has been a resident of Grant County since 1853, at which date he removed from Ohio, and purchased 160 acres of land where he now resides, and began improving it. He has held some of the minor offices of his township, and himself and wife are among the best and highly esteemed people of the county, where they are now enjoying the evening of life amid the com- forts that a good competence, honestly and laboriously earned, can secure to them. He was formerly a stanch Republican, but of late is a strong advocate of the principles of the Prohibitior party. He and wife are members of the Society of Friends. .

JAMES H. WILLIAMS, who was born in Delaware County, Ind., February 1845, is the fifth of nine children born to William G. and Sarah (Tomlinson) Williams, natives of Preble County, Ohio, and of English origin. The father was a farmer by occupation and grew to manhood in his native county. In 1837 he immigrated to Delaware County, Ind., and located on a farm near Muncie and still resides there. Here is where our subject grew up, working on the farm in summer and attending the district schools in the winter seasons, remaining at home till at the age of twenty-two, when he came and located on a farm in Jefferson Township, where he has since resided. March 24, 1870, he was married to Miss Nancy J. Walker, a daughter of Arthur Walker, of Jefferson Township. They have five children: Dora, Andrew, Charles, Ora and Myrtle. He owns a farm of 150 acres, well stocked and good improvements. He and wife are both members of the church. In political thinking he accords with the principles of the Republican party.

JAMES P. WILSON, farmer, Jefferson Township, is a native of Grant County, Ind., born in 1849, and is directly descended, paternally, from Virginia stock. His father, John M., was a son of William and Jane (Mackey) Wilson, and was born in Rockbridge County, Va.,in 1807. When a young man he came to Grant County, Ind., where he married Mary A. Lucas, entered land in the county, and at the time of his death in 1865 was the owner of 700 acres of land. He was an honorable citizen, highly respected in the community in which he lived, and he and wife were exemplary mempers of the Presbyterian Church. James P., our subject, was reared on a farm, receiving his education at the common schools. February 22, 1871, his marriage with Mary J. Jones was solemnized, and by this union are five children: Thomas B., born May 12, 1872; Ralph O., born January 25, 1875; Eva P., born October 3, 1877; Walter G., born February 2, 1882, and Don C., born July 24, 1884. Mr. Wilson has made farming his occupation through life, now owning eighty acres of well improved land. He is an enterprising and esteemed citizen, and he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.