Jefferson Township (part 1 of 2)

Jefferson Township

This township has a flat, level surface in the southern part. Here the lands are wet, but when drained become most fertile and productive. The northwestern part of the township is somewhat rolling. The lands are generally well improved with flne farms and good buildings. Bell and Honey Creek, flowing north, are the principal streams. Originally most of the land was covered with a heavy growth of timber.

This was the twelfth township formed in the county. It was erected on the 5th of September, 1843, from parts of Fall Creek and Prairie townships. Being a Democratic stronghold it was named in honor of Thomas Jefterson. The first election, for the purpose of choosing one justice of the peace, was ordered to be held at the house of Michael Swope, Oct. 2, 1843.

Fleming, Anthony Sanders, Samuel Beavers, James Maish, A. Cory and S. B. Hays, as early as 1823. Others came to the county at or near the dates mentioned: Xeedham and William Sanders;

A distillery was built by Eli Herman in 1839-'40. It was five stories high and had a capacity for 100 to 125 bushels of grain per day. The whisky was hauled by wagons to Cincinnati.

Twelve men were constantly employed and a large business was done. The distillery went out of operation many years ago. The grain used was purchased at 12-J cents a bushel. Whisky then sold at 18 cents per gallon.

The township officers for 1853 were as follows: Board of Trustees, Lafary Hale, President; Lark P. Clelland, Thomas Sanders; Treasurer, Joseph Rife; Clerk, J. B. Benbow. In that year a tax of 5 cents on each $100 of real and personal property was levied for township purposes, and of 10 cents for road purposes.

At the April election, 1881, Jefferson Township elected Republican officers for the first time in its history. John W. Whitworth, was chosen Trustee by a majority of five; S. D. Christner, Justice, by one majority. The Constables chosen were James Wright, Republican, and G. W. Showers, Democrat.

The first school-house in the eastern half of Jefferson Township was erected on the farm now owned by Enos Bouslog and was known as the Prunty school-house. David Prunty was the first teacher. The number of pupils in attendance was about thirty. The house had greased paper for window lights, and the benches were made of split poles.

After the adoption of the free-school system, the township was formed into eight school districts, and in a special meeting of the Board of Trustees, held at the house of Win. S. Yost, May 11, 1853, the following committee was appointed for the purpose of selecting locations for school-houses: Solomon Peckinpaugh, Samuel Wetz, A. W. Bouslog, John Courtney and Wm. B. Whitworth. The report, in favor of building a school-house in the center of each two-mile square, was adopted. The first teachers with their salaries for the term of three months, number of pupils, etc., are given below;

Attend

In 1869 the value of school property in this township was $5,- 400 ; in 1883, $8,825. The number of school children in the township in 1883 outside of Sulphur Springs was 310; number attending school, 278; average attendance, 196. Average compensation of male teachers per day, $1.95; female teachers, $1.86f .

United Brethren. - Forest Hill Chapel was erected by the U. B. Society in 1860, at a cost of about $900. Mr. Gronendyke donated the lot besides otherwise assisting the society. The church was organized with about thirty members, and has now about fifteen members. The chapel was dedicated by Bishop Edwards. The first Trustees were Michael Gronendyke, Jacob Rinker and Christopher Fainter.

Sulphur Springs

Sulphur Springs, so named from the many mineral springs found in its vicinity, is a thriving and prosperous village, situated on the Chicago, St. Louis & Pittsburg Railroad, seven miles northwest of Hew Castle. The town was platted by Win. S. Yost, who was also the first merchant in the place, and the plat was recorded Jan. 1, 1853. The town is incorporated, has a variety of business interests, a good graded school, one church, etc. The population in 1880 was 256.

The business of the place is represented by the following summary: General store, M. D. Harry; groceries and hardware, Isaac Cory; groceries, H. W. |Warner, Postmaster; boots and shoes, Andrew Studle; druggist, J. H. Thompson; harness shop, C. C. M. Bock; hotel, Alex. Personett; grain elevator, J. Q. Hart; sawmill, Peter Hetz; blacksmith, Wm. Culp; physicians. Win. M. Reasoner and E. D. Rutledge.

The tile factory at Sulphur Springs was built in 1864, by Geo. Smith, of Wayne County, and operated until 1867, by Doris Hell. Then Rife & Hoover became the owners, succeeded in 1868 by Rife, Sowash & Good. In 1876 Sowash & Good became sole proprietors and still conduct the business. The factory was first lor cated one-fourth mile north of Sulphur Springs, and was moved to the village in 1874. Capacity, 20,000 tiles annually.

Masonic Biographical

William M. Bailey^ son of Henry and Anna M. (Brooksfeeei^ Bailey, was born in Wayne Countvj Ind., in 1848, and when three years of age came with his parents to Henry County. He remained with his parents in Henry and Wayne counties till his marriage, and then began farming for himself. ^ In 1870 he went to Kandolph County, and in 1878 came to Henry County and bought the old Jacob Wright farm in Jefferson Township where he has since resided. He was married in 1871 to Sarah Wise, who was born in Wayne County, Ind., in 1852, a daughter of Mathias and Mary Wise. Mr. and Mrs. Bailey have two children - Lawrence and Amanda M. They are members of the United Brethren church.

George W. Baker was born in Preble County, Ohio, May 22, 1843, a son of John and Rebecca (Yost) Baker, natives of Rockingham County, Ya., the father born in 1811 and the mother in 1813. His parents were married in 1833, and in 1836 moved to Preble County, Ohio, remaining there until Feb. 27, 1862, when, with their two youngest children they moved to Henry County, Ind., where Mr. Baker died the same year. Seven of a family of eleven children are living - Mary, Jane, John W., Charles F., Jacob F., George W. and James C. George W. was reared and educated in Ohio, and when seventeen years of age began the carpenter's trade, which he has since worked at. He was married in 1864 to Mary E. Rardin, who was born in Scioto County, Ohio, Dec. 9, 1842, a daughter of Philip and Mary Rardin. Of five children born to them but two are living - John A. and Mary A.; Wecy J. G. D., died Oct. 31, 1882; Elma L. B., Nov. 3, 1882; Jesse L., Oct. 27, 1882. Mr. Baker has served as Constable six years, as Assessor of his township, and eleven years in the City Council. He is a member of the Masonic fra ternity, and has been Master of Sulphur Springs Lodge four years. In 1864-'65 served in Company A, Twenty-fourth Indiana Infantry, seven months. Mrs. Baker is a member .of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Adam Benbow was born in South Carolina, July 3, 1810, and came to Henry County, Ind., with his parents in 1820. He has always devoted himself to farming, and although he started in life with nothing, has gone through all the hardships of pioneer life, and has accumulated a good property, owning now 120 acres of excellent land in Jefferson Township. He was married in 1829 to Abigail, daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth Hendrickson. She was born in Beaver County, Fa., April 2, 1813, and came with her parents to Henry County, Ind., Dec. 11, 1823. Her father died in 1825 and her mother in 1838. She was the youngest of eight daughters. Mr. and Mrs. Benbow have been members of the Christian church ^iice 1843. Of their eleven children ten grew to maturity and eight are still living - John B., of Huntington County, Ind.; Sarah L., wife of Yirgil Hale; Mary E., wife of erdinand Harter; Eliza E., wife of C. C. M. Bock; Benjamin F. ; Olive F. ; Araminta C., widow of Thomas Smith, and Adam Y. The deceased are - Margaret, wife of A. T. Yanwinkle; Jacob, and Amanda A.

Barclay Benbow was born in South Carolina about 1790, of Welsh descent. When a young man he went to Ohio and there married Mary McClure, who was of Irish descent, born in South Carolina about 1789. After their marriage they returned to South Carolina, but in 1811 removed to Shelby County, Ohio, and soon after, with others, came to Indiana and squatted in what is now Wayne County. They were soon routed by the Indians and forced to return to Ohio, but in about a year came again to Indiana and settled about six miles northwest of the site of Bickmond. In 1820 they came to Henry County and Mr. Benbow purchased a squatter's claim in Frairie Township. He cleared about ten acres, but when the land was brought into market he was not able to buy it and was obliged to move. He went about three miles north and bought another claim, afterward buying it of the Government. He lived on this land several years and then moved to the northern part of the township. Mr. Benbow was one of the most prominent men in the early settlement of the county. His wife died Jan. 1, 1843. They had a family of ten children - Martha (deceased), Adam, Benjamin, Folly (deceased), Bobert,

Edward, Julias, Canty, Margaret and Zerilda. In ISJI Mr. Benbow married Sarah Hickman. To them were born five children - Moses (deceased), Cordelia, John (deceased), Lafayette and Alice. Mr. Benbow died in 1869.

Sanford M. Bouslog is a son of Abraham W. and Amanda E. (Peckinpaugh) Bouslog, natives of West Virginia who came to Henry County, Ind., with their parents about 1830. They were married in Jefferson Township in 1846, and soon after their marriage settled on the land where our subject now lives. Abraham Bouslog was a prominent citizen in his township, where he held the oflice of Justice of the Peace several years, and at the time of his death was Township Trustee. Coming to the county in an early day he experienced all the varied and trying phases of pioneer life. He was the eldest of a large family, and after his father's death, although but sixteen years of age, he assumed the care and support of the family. How nobly and heroically he discharged these duties the living descendants can all give testimony. He died in April, 1862, leaving a family of seven children, all born and now living in Henry County, and all filling honorable positions. Sanford M., the eldest, was born May 30, 1848, on the old homestead, where he grew to manhood, receiving his education in the neighborhood schopls. He subsequently taught school five terms (thirty months), and has always taken a deep interest in educational matters. He was married Dec. 6, 1875, to Mary J. Yost, daughter of Levi Yost, of Henry County. Five children have been born to them, two sons and three daughters. Mr. Bouslog adheres to the Democratic school of politics.

- Noah Bowers^ son of David M. and Sarah (Andes) Bowers, was born in Eockingham County, Ya., Aug. 18, 1839. His parents were natives of Virginia, and were there married in 1835. In 1841 they moved to Delaware County, Ind., and in 1854 to Jefferson Township, Henry County, where his father died September, 1859, and his mother, October, 1865. They had a family of nine children; but three are living - Hoah, Emily F. (now Mrs. J. H. Hoffman), and John. Susannah, Catherine, Samuel, Levina, Mary Ann and William are deceased. They were members of the Lutheran church. Noah Bowers was reared and educated in Indiana, and has followed farming for a livelihood. He now owns a good farm of eighty acres in Jefferson Township. April 25, 1861, he was married to Sarah A. Ejiod^, a native of Henry County, born Dec. 29, 1843. They have had three children - Eugenia Attie,

21, 1870; Jabez Burke, born July 29, 1869. Mrs. Bowers's father, Joseph Bhodes, was born in Pennsylvania in 1813 and died in Henry County, Ind., March, 1863. He was married in 1841 to Mary S. Plum, a native of Yirginia, born Dec. 25, 1818. They were married in Ohio, but shortly after moved to Henry County, Ind. Mrs. Bowers is their only child. Mr. Khodes was a member of the Presbyterian church, and his wife of the Lutheran.

- 6bry Family. - This family is one of the oldest in Henry County, and many of the privileges now enjoyed are due, in a measure, to their enterprise and progressiveness. Joseph Cory, the first of whom we have any record, was born in Wales, and at a very early day came to America and located in Kentucky; afterward removed to Ohio, where he reared his family and died at an advanced age. His son, Hathan Cory, was born June 24, 1766, and married Sarah Wright, who was born Feb. 15,1770. Thej^ both died near Frankfort, Boss Co., Ohio. They had a family of twelve children - David, born Feb. 1, 1788; Jos^h, May 23, 1790; John, Jan. 21, 1792; James, January, 1794; Abraham, Dec. 2, 1795; Anna, Dec. 15, 1798; Stephen, Nov. 30, 1800, died Sept.

22, 1883; Noah, Sept. 25, 1802; Mary, born Oct. 7, 1804; Israel, May 25, 1806; Daniel, July 7. 1803; Solomon, June 30, 1810. Only two are living - Noah, of Boss County, Ohio, and Solomon, of Blue Biver Township, this county. Joseph, Abraham, Stephen, Mary, Daniel and Solomon were residents of Henry County. /Joseph and Abraham came first, in February, 1823, and located hand in Blue Biver Township. They were both soldiers in the war* \)f 1812. Joseph was married in Ohio to Hester Moorman. He\ entered 160 acres of land in Henry County, which he cultivated and improved. His wife died in 1828. They had a family of seven children - Nathan, Sarah, Mary Ann, Abraham, Josep Noah and NaomL^He married for his second wife Matilda Greenstreet, and to them were born several children; only two, . Bebecca and Louisa, lived till maturity. His third wife was j

^^'^ebecca (Lamb) Beeson. Joseph Cory died at an advanced^gej His son Abraham was born in Ohio, near Old Town, Feb. 10, 1815, and was married in 1834 to Mahalia Moore, who was born in Henry County, and died in 1844. Their children were - Lucinda, deceased, wife of J. Cavalt; Nathan D., of Henry County; and Malinda, deceased. Abraham Cory afterward married Mary Jane, daughter of Thomas Bice. Their children were five in number -

1824. They have two children - Emma Mary, wife of Alonzo Brodway, and Ella. Mr. Cory has a good farm of 100 acres. Daniel Corv was born in Boss County, Ohio, July 7, 1808, and died in Henry County, Ind., Aug. 29, 1873. He was married in Ohio, in 1826, to Mary Howard, who was born Aug. 22, 1800, and died Sept. 14, 1872. The same year of their marriage they came to Henry County, Ind., and entered 160 acres of land in Blue Biver Township, where they passed the remainder of their lives.

They were members of the Baptist church, and were among the most influential and prominent citizens of the township. They had a family of ten children - Israel, born Jan. 9, 1827, resides in Delaware County; John, born March 18, 1828, died Oct. 11, 1841;

He was reared and educated in his native township. Upon reaching manhood he chose farming as his lifework, and has carried on the occupation successfully and profltably. He moved to Jefferson Township in 1863, and bought 160 acres of land which was mostly uncultivated. He has improved it in both a useful and ornamental manner and now has one of the most beautiful homes in the township. He was married Feb. 2, 1862, to Mary J., daughter of Jonathan and Su^rJCanadav. She is a native of Ban- -dolpli County, Ind., born Feb. l3, 1844. Mr. and Mrs. Cory have had a family of nine children - Bosetta and Yiretta, born Oct. 18, was educated in the common schools and reared a farmer, following that vocation till 1878. In 1875 he bought a farm in Wells County, Ind., and moved there the same fall. He remained in Wells County till 1878, when, his health failing, he moved to Sulphur Springs and opened a general store, where he has since carried on a lucrative business, carrying a complete stock of notions, hardware, provisions, etc. Feb. 27, 1868, he was married to Sarah Beeson, a native of Parke County, Ind., born March 7, 1847, a daughter of Isaac K. and Rebecca Beeson. They have one chil - Rebecca Jane, born Feb. 25, 1869. Mr. Cory has always been a strictly temperate man, and is a firm advocate of all that tends to the upbuilding of morality.

John Courtney was born in Morgan County, W. Ya., in 1804, a son of Jacob Courtney, who was born in Germany in 1761 and came to America when quite young and died in 1833. His mother was also a native of Germany, born in 1761, and died in 1845. He was married in 1827 to Mary Ann Michaels, a native of Virginia, born in 1809. In 1835 they came to Henry County, Ind., and located in Prairie Township, but a year later he entered eighty acres in Jefferson Township, which he afterward increased to 300 acres. He cultivated and improved his land and at his death owned one of the best farms in the township. He died in 1860 lamented by all who knew him. He was one of the most influential and progressive men of the township. His wife died in 1857. They had a family of twelve children; eight are living - Christian, of Missouri; Daniel, of Nebraska; James W. and John J., of Henry County; Amanda, of Fulton County, Ind.; Caroline, Catherine and Jacob, of Henry County. Eliza J., Edward, Francis M. and Mary Ann are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Courtney were members of the Christian church.

John J. Courtney^ son of John and Mary Ann (Michaels) Courtney, was born in Jefferson Township, Henry Co., Ind., in 1839. He was reared a farmer, and has always followed that vocation. He now owns 160 acres of the old homestead where he was born. For twenty years he followed threshing, and for two years was a partner in a saw-mill. He was married in 1860 to Sarah Ellen Cooper, a native of Marion County, West Ya., born in 1838, and a daughter of Thomas and Haney Cooper, both deceased.. Mr. and Mrs. Courtney are members of the Christian church.

1810, and there grew to manhood. His father and grandfather were born in the same valley. His Grandfather Crabill was born early in the eighteenth century and was reared on a farm. At the breaking out of the Kevolutionary war he enlisted as a private and served during the war. At its close he was honorably discharged and returned to his home and continued farming till his death, about his sixty-fifth year. His Great-grandfather Hhodes, was a Mennonist preacher, of Swiss descent, and lived in what is now Page County, Ya. His grandfather, Michael Rhodes, was born on Missinita Creek, near the south branch of Shenandoah River. When Michael Rhodes was about eight years old'a party of eight Indians and a worthless white man crossed PowelPs Fort and came to the residence of John Gatewood, where his father was then living, and murdered part of the family. One son attempted to save himself by fiight, but was pursued and killed while attempting to cross the river. The place to this day is called Bloody Ford. The eldest daughter caught up her little sister, a child sixteen months old, ran into the barn and secured the door. An Indian discovered her, and after finding the door fastened went back to the house for fire. While he was gone she crept out of a hole on the opposite side of the barn with her sister in her arms, ran through a field of tall hemp, crossed the river, and got safely to a neighboring house and thus saved herself and sister. After plundering the house of such articles as they chose to take, the Indians set fire to the house and left, taking with them two of the sons and two daughters prisoners, Michael being the oldest boy. The youngest boy was sickly and not able to travel, and after crossing the head of Powell's Fort they killed him. His sisters then refused to go any farther and were barbarously murdered. Michael was held a captive and taken west of the Ohio River to a village on the Coita River, where he remained till twenty-two years of age. He was reared a warrior and accompanied the Indians on many raids upon the frontier settlements. Soon after the breaking out of the Revolutionary war the Indians planned a raid on the frontier settlements of Pennsylvania. After getting east of the mountains he saw a chance to escape and deserted them. He made his way to Philadelphia and enlisted as a soldier in the Colonial army. He served faithfully till the close of the war and when he had received an honorable discharge returned to the home of his childhood, but could find no one that could recognize in him the little Michael Rhodes, supposed to have been killed by the Indians, and his lawful possessions were denied him. After several years residence in the neighborhood,, while hunting in the mountains he accidentally came to a cave, near where lived an old lady, solitary and alone. He went to the cabin door to ask /or a drink, and the old lady asked his name, which he told her, and then gave her a brief history of his life, concluding by telling how the people of the valley doubted his story, and that for want of identification his estate was denied him. The old lady promptly replied that if he was Mike Ehodes she could tell by a peculiar crescent-shaped spot or mole between his shoulders, of which he was entirely ignorant. She examined the shoulders, and then declared she could sware to his identity. From this circumstance his identity was established and his father's estate was restored to him by the courts. He then married a Miss Strickler, sold his possessions and moved to the Horth Shenandoah Eiver Yalley and settled four miles below Woodstock, where he died in 1819. In 1835 the subject of this sketch with his father and family moved from Yirginia to Ohio and settled on the west side of Mad River, in the beautiful Mad River Yalley, Champaign County, where his father died in 1819, aged over ninety-three years. June 16, 1842, Isaac Crabill was married to Cevilla Fenc, a native of Ohio, and lived on the old homestead till 1861 when he moved to Henry County, Ind., and bought what is known as the Funk farm, where they still reside. They have had a family of twelve children - Mary J., George F., Joseph E., Michael R., John D., Franklin P., Benjamin F., Levi W. (deceased), Emma C., Alba O., Jacob C,, David E. Mr. Crabill owns 392 acres of fine land, all well cultivated. Mrs. Crabill is a member of the Baptist church.

Samuel Deaver is a son of Richard and Henrietta (King) Deaver, the former a native of Maryland and the later of Horth Carolina. They were married in North Carolina in 1812. Wm.. King, maternal grandfather of our subject, was a Revolutionary soldier and was wounded at General Gates's defeat, near Camden. Samuel is the fifth of thirteen children, and was born near Salis-^ bury, N. C., Jan. 20, 1819. He came to Wayne County, Ind., when seven years old with his parents, and seven years later came to Jefferson Township, this county. They settled on the land where he now lives about the year 1835. Here he has lived and received his education. His first education was obtained at Watkins's School held in the Griffith house, one and one half miles northeast of his present home. He afterward attended school about three months, when, in 1843, he entered the Dublin Seminary where he remained as a student but about six weeks. He afterward taught school in his own neighborhood for two terms. He now, at the age of sixty-five years, lives on his fine farm of 200 acres, surrounded by pleasant associations. He was never married and lives with his two maiden sisters who preside over his home.

Robert Downs was born in Hew Jersey, Feb. 14, 1828, a son of Kobert and Elizabeth (Babbington) Downs, his father a native of Pennsylvania, and his mother of New Jersey. Eobert Downs, Sr., was reared and educated in Pennsylvania, and worked in the iron works till 1840, when he moved to Licking County, Ohio, and bought a farm, remaining there two years. In 1842 he came to Henry County, Ind., and bought 160 acres of wild land in Prairie Township, which with the aid of his sons he cultivated and improved. Mr. Downs served over a year in the war of 1812. His family consisted of eleven children; three died in infancy, and Matthew, the eldest, died in California in 1852. Those living are - Sarah, wife of Joel Harvey; Samuel; Kobert; Elizabeth, wife of A. Harvey; William; Mary J., wife of Isaac Holsinger; Eachel, wife of Wesley Peterson, of Blackford County, Ind. Eobert Downs, Jr., came with his parents to Indiana, and has remained here, with the exception of twelve years spent in travel. He was married Dec. 3, 1863, to Alice Kutledge, born in Delaware County, Ind., Jan. 10, 1846, a daughter of John and Hannah Eutledge. They have three children - Martha, born Oct. 18, 1864, wife of Douglass Peckinpaugh; Sarah, born Sept. 21, 1866; Hattie, born March 21, 1871. Mr. and Mrs. Downs are members of the Christian church. In 1863, after returning from a trip in the West, Mr. Downs bought the old home farm where he lived two years, when he sold it and bought 160 acres in Jefferson Township, where he has since resided. Mr. Downs was in the service of the Government five years, and during the early part of the war had charge of a supply train from Mexico to the States.

William Downs^ sOn of Eobert and Elizabeth Downs, was born in Maryland, Oct. 10, 1834. In 1837 his parents moved to Ohio, and two years later to Henry County, Ind., locating in Prairie Township, where he was reared and educated. June 1, 1870, he married Samantha Eutledge, a daughter of John and Hannah Eutledge, born in 1850. They have four children - Ida, John, Eobert and Samuel. In 1861 Mr. Downs enlisted in Company D,

Second Indiana Cavalry, and served three years. Since his return from the war he has given his attention to farming, and now owns 120 acres of fine land in Jefferson Township.

James H. Edleman it the fourth of eight children of Leonard and Nancy W. (Atchison) Edleman. His father was a native of Greene County, Tenn., and his mother, of Lexington, Ky. Our subject was born at Cynthiana, Harrison Co., Ky., July 13, 1835; came to Ashland, Henry County, with his parents in 1836, and in 1840 they settled two miles west of Cadiz, while that section of the State was a wilderness. His father died Nov. 18,1860; his mother is still living at the age of seventy-seven years. James H. Edleman now resides on his farm in Jefferson Township, consisting of sixty acres, thirteen acres of which was the homestead of his parents, settled by them in 1855. Our subject was married Nov. 2, 1860, to Louisa Latffiaw, daughter of Josiah Latshaw of Rochester, Ind., where he died about 1868. To this marriage have been born eight children; six are living, all born in Jefferson Township, this county; all are unmarried and remain with their parents. While Mr. Edleman has been engaged much in agricultural pursuits, he has also worked at the cabinet maker's trade, serving an apprenticeship before the war. He is one of the early pioneers of Central Indiana, and is familiar with all the stirring incidents that make up the life and adventures of a frontiersman. Mr. Edleman takes a deep interest in all educational matters; has a literary turn of mind and is the author of a number of articles on social, educational and political subjects. He has for many years contributed to the local press and has written much for the Cincinnati Enquirer and Atlanta Constitution. He is a leading member of the Democratic party.

Leonard Edleman.^ deceased, was born in Tennessee in November, 1804, and when eleven years of age went to Kentucky, where he lived till manhood, engaged in farming. He was married in 1826 to Nancy W. Atchison, a native of Harrison County, Ky., born in 1806. In 1828 they came to Indiana and settled in Liberty Township, Henry County. In 1849 they moved to Jefferson Township, where Mr. Edleman bought 120 acres of land, which he cleared and cultivated. He was a man of unquestionable character, a strong advocate of temperance, and in educational matters especially took an active interest. He died in 1860. His wife is still living, aged seventy-seven years. Of a family of nine children five are living - Jane, widow of H. H. Swift; James;

Alvira, wife of William Chapman; Richard J. and Montgomery B. The deceased are - Elizabeth, wife of Charles Fersonett; David, Cynthiana and Thomas.

Richard J. Edleman was born in Henry County, Ind., in 1840. He was reared a farmer, an occupation which he followed till 1876, when he was employed as agent of the Chicago, St. Louis & Pittsburg Railroad at Sulphur Springs, a position he still occupies. He is also the agent for the Adams and American express companies. He has served as Justice of the Peace six years. In 1880 be was Census Enumerator of his district. Mr. Edleman enlisted in the war of the Rebellion in the Twelfth Indiana Battery, Second Light Artillery, and served nearly a year when he was discharged on account of disability. He was married in 1863 to Eleanor, daughter of OwenGHffith. They have had a family of eight children: but four are living - Marietta and Alviretta (twins), Almira Josephine and Maud. Lanrena, Deloss O., Montgomery M. and an infant are deceased. Mrs. Edleman is a member of the Hew Light church. Although a member of no church, Mr. Edleman is foremost in upholding the right and maintaining all causes that tend to elevate society.

Jacob W. Fry was born in Rockingham County, Ya., Jan. 1, 1831, and died in Henry County, Ind., March 2, 1875. His parents, Jacob and Frances Fry, moved to Henry County, Ind., in an early day. His mother died in 1859 and his father then went to Missouri and spent the remainder of his life with a daughter. The family consisted of seven children who lived till maturity, and three who died in infancy - Elizabeth, Hoah, Anna, Sarah, Polly, Jacob W. and Barbara. But four are living - Anna and Barbara in Missouri, Sarah in Kansas, and Hoah in Howard County, Ind. Jacob W. was reared and educated in his native county, and came to Henry County with his parents. He was married in 1855 to Mary G^ffith, who lived but a short time. Sept. 1, 1857, he married Sarah Snideman, who was born in Henry County, Ind.^ April 7, 1839, a daughter of John and Christena Snideman. They had a family of nine children - John H., born June 23, 1858; David F., born Feb. 25, 1860, died May 11, 1865; Melvina, born Sept. 5, 1861, wife of David Spitzer, of Blackford County, Ind. ; Virginia Ann, born Sept. 9, 1863, wife of Isaac Burk, of Delaware County, Ind. ; Laura M. J., born in 1865, wife of William Miller, of Delaware County; Lucretia A., born Feb. 19, 1867; Mary C. E., born Feb. 25, 1869; William, born April 5, 1871; Maud C., born

March 18, 1873. Mr. Fry was one of the most enterprising and public-spirited men in Jefferson Township. His ideas were proessive in regard, to all matters of public interest, especially pertaining to education. He and his wife were active members the German Baptist church.

Oioen Griffith^ the eldest son of Abel and Jennie (Windsor) Griffith, was born in Boon County, Ky., in 1810. His parents were natives of Yirginia, and early in their married life came to Indiana, locating first in Dearborn County. In 1825 they removed to Henry County, and entered forty acres of land in Fall Creek Township; afterward moved to Madison County. They had a family of eight children - Owen, James, John, William, Abel, *Letta, Sarah and Pruda. Owen Griffith came with his parents to Indiana, and has been active in advancing the interests of Henry County since his first settlement here. He has, by good management, nobly assisted by his wife, amassed considerable wealth.' They have always been ready to help the needy, and many of their hard-earned dollars have gone to pay the debts of others. Mr. Griffith was married in 1831 to Mary King, a native of Union County, Ind., born Dec. 28, 1815, a daughter of William and Sarah Eing. They have had a family of eight children - Louisa J., deceased; Sarah E., wife of J. Young; Mary E., deceased; William; Haney C., deceased; Eleanor, wife of E. J. Edleman; Maggie, widow of H. Jackson; and Lucretia A., deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Griffith are members of the Dunkard church, and are infiuential citizens of the township.

James Groenendyice was a native of Hew Jersey, born in 1770, and died in Fayette County, Ind., in 1836. He married Johannah Hagerman, also of Hew Jersey, born in 1780, died in 1825. They had a family of eight children; three are living - John, Michael and Elias. The deceased are - Hicholas, Peter, Thomas, James and Catherine. In 1819 they settled in Fayette County, Ind. They are members of the Presbyterian church. Michael, their sixth child, was born in Dearborn County, Ind., March 25, 1815, and was reared and educated in Fayette County. In 1843 he came to Henry County, and located in Jefferson Township, where he has since resided. He bought 160 acres which was literally in the woods and has made of it one of the finest homes in the county. He was married in 1837 to Anna H§ji^ns, a native of Pennsylvania, born Dec. 16, 1815, a daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth Hankins. They are the parents of three children - J ames.

Amos and Josephine. Amos enlisted in 1864: as First Lieutenant of Company F, One Hundred and Twenty-fourth Indiana Infantry. He was wounded at Franklin and died at Nashville, Dec. 27, 1864:. He was brave, modest and vigilant in the performance of ev^ery duty. Mr. and Mrs. Groenendyke are members of the United Brethren church.

- Lafarie Hale^ son of Abraham and Sarah Hale, was born in Monongalia Count}^, W. Ya., April 19, 1823, where he lived till ten years of age, when his parents came to Henry County, Ind., and located in Prairie Township. His father leased a piece of ground of John G. Millett, where they lived four years, when the lease was sold and eighty acres of land entered in Jefferson Township. The family were poor when they came to Indiana, but by hard work were prospered. When twenty years of age our subject was given his time by his father and went to work for Clem Murphy, at $8 a month. At the close of the season he was employed to teach the Masterson school for a term of six months, at $13 a month. The next summer he worked on a farm for $9 a month, saving his money that he might buy a home. In the fall of 184:5 he bought the home farm, and has gradually accumulated property till he owns <500 acres of fine land, the most of it under good cultivation, all gained by his own perseverance and industry. He was one of the first Trustees of the township, and has been a Justice of the Peace eighteen years. He has been one of the most progressive and infiuential men of the township, and has always assisted in all enterprises of public interest. He was married March 19, 184:6, to Matilda Hazelton. who was born in Ohio, Aug. 23, 1823, and died May 29, 1859. They had a family of six children - John, born Oct. 8, 184:8, married Lutitia Lester; Susannah B., born May 23, 1850, married George M. Ball: Mary, born Jan. 28, 1852, married Blind Drum; Thomas C., born March 17, 1854, died April 5, 1855; Joseph W., born Aug. 10, 1856, died Aug. 9, 1871; Ellis W., born Sept. 22, 1858. The three eldest reside in Delaware County, Ind. Sept. 14, 1859, Mr. Hale tnarried Bachel Mitchell, who was born in Bockingham County, Ya.,May 16, 1832. They have had six children - Lewis, born May 29, 1860, was married March 26, 1882, to Ella Yeatch, who was born Feb. 25, 1860, and died Jan. 20, 1884; Addie J., born No7. 7, 1862; Alice O., born Oct. 10, 1864, died Sept. 15, 1865; William M., born Aug. 26, 1867; Buth M., born Feb. 10, 1871; Charles, born Nov. 15, 1872. Mr. Hale has been a member of the Protestant

Methodist church eighteen years. His wife is a member of the German Baptist church. Politically he is a Democrat, and a strictly temperate man.

His parents were natives of the same State. His father, John Hays, was born in 1786, and his mother, Magdalena (Buck) Hays^,^^ in 1790. His parents came to Indiana in 1823 and entered land \ in Dudley Township, Henry County. They were earnest members \ of the Baptist church. The father died in 1865, and the mother,

Sept. 6, 1862. They had a family of six children - James M., Su- ^ sanah, Sarah A., Simeon B., Mary A. (deceased), and Martha Ann. ^ Simeon B. Hays was reared in Henry County, and has assisted largely in its improvement, being active in helping forward any enterprise of benefit to the community. He was denied the privilege of more than a common-school education, and realizing the necessity of better school accommodations, has been foremost in advocating and establishing schools. He has accumulated a good property, owning 484 acres of valuable land. He was married in 1847, to Catharine, daughter of David Bouslog, who was born in 1829. She died in 1862. They had a family of seven children -

Mary J. (deceased), John C., David M., Margaret C., Miles A. (deceased), Kachel and Strawther. In 1865 Mr. Hays married Mahala, daughter of Philip Lindamood. She is a native of Henry County, Ind., born in 1841.

Albert Harry was born in 1812 in Shenandoah County, Ya., and was there reared and educated. When twelve years of age he began learning the hatter's trade and served an apprenticeship of nine years. He then learned the wagon-rnaker's trade, at which he worked till 1860, and since then has given his attention to his farm. Re came to Henry County, Ind., in 1839, and has since made this his home. He has a tine farm of 120 acres, all well improved. Mr. Harry was married in 1839 to Jiiliet Bledsow, a native of Yirginia, born in 1820. She died in 1873. They had a 'family of thirteen children; eight are living - Martin L., Marcus D., Louisa, Mary, Albert J., Preserved, Juliet and David G. Politically Mr. Harry is a Democrat. ^

M. D: Hay^f^%o\i of Albert and Julia D. Harry, was born in^l 842, in Jeflerson Township, Henry Co., Ind., where he was reared and educated, and has always made his home. He worked on the farm till his majority, and then in a saw-mill two years. He then returned to the farm and remained two years, when he moved to Sulphur

Springs and engaged in the grocery business a year. The next eight years he worked at the carpenter's trade, and in the meantime held the office of Justice of the Peace six years. During his term of office he handled about $12,000 of the people's money, collecting the greater part through litigation. He then opened a general store, which he is still successfully carrying on. His receipts the first year were $6,000, and the last, $9,000. 111^1870

Isaac Holsinger^ son of Jacob and Polly Holsinger, was born in Bedford County, Pa., in 1832. He remained in his native county till sixteen years of age, when, with his brother John, he came to Indiana and settled in Prairie Township, Henry County. He remained with his brother till 1861, when he married Mary J. Downs, daughter of Bobert and Elizabeth Downs, and a native of Maryland, born in 1836. They have a family of four children - William, Alice, Kobert and Charley. Mr. and Mrs. Holsinger are members of the German Baptist church. He owns a fine farm of 160 acres in Jefferson Township.

David H. Iloman^ son of Michael and Lena Homan, was born in 1836, in Kockingham Countj^, Ya., where he was reared and educated. In 1860 he came to Henry County, Ind., and located in Fall Creek Township, where he was extensively engaged in stock dealing till 1871. He then began farming, and has since followed that vocation. In 1881 he moved to Jefferson Township, where he now owns a large well-cultivated farm. He was married in 1872 to Hannah Bushaugh, a native of Shenandoah County, Ya., born in 1833, and a daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Bushaugh, who came to Henry County in 1857. From 1857 to 1860 Mr. Homan traveled in the Western States, visiting Missouri, Kansas and Nebraska.

David F. Hoover^ son of George and Catherine Hoover, was born in Jefferson Township, Henry Co., Ind., in 1816. He was reared a farmer, but receiving a good education he began teaching when nineteen years of age, and has taught fifteen, winter terms, all save four in Jefferson Township. In 1882 he was elected Trustee of the township. He has always taken a great interest in the cause of education. He has a farm of 115 acres of well cultivated land. He and his wife have been members of the German

Baptist church since 1876. In 1877 he was elected to the first degree of the ministry and has since been advanced to the second degree. He is one of the Trustees of the Aged Persons' Home and Orphan Asylum of the German Baptist church, in the southern district of Indiana, and is solicitor for the same district. Mr. Hoover was married Feb. 22, 1872, to Mary C., daughter of Strawther and Piercie (Kerljji) Bouslog, and a native of Jefferson Township, born in 1851. They have had six children - Joseph L., John J., Grace A. (deceased), Charles E., George H. and an infant (deceased).

George Hoover^ a native of Rockingham County, Ya., was born in 1814:. He married Catherine Rife, also a native of Virginia, and in 1836 they, with one child, came to Indiana and settled in Jefferson Township, Henry County, at that time a part of Fall Creek Township. Mr. Hoover bought a farm of 200 acres, which he has improved and now has under cultivation. He has always taken great interest in the advancement and improvement of the county. He and his wife are members of the German Baptist church, of which he has been a member forty-three years. Mr. and Mrs. Hoover have had seven children - Joseph, married Ruth Ann McDorman, resides in Minnesota; Anna, wife of Jacob Yost; Mary C., deceased; John J., married Jane Swope, who died, and he afterward married Diana Miller; Elizabeth, wife of Charles Wright; David F., married Catherine Bouslog; Sarah, deceased, wife of John Bartow.

28, 1833, a son of Henry and Catherine Hoover. He was reared and educated in his native county, and when twenty-one years of age came to Henry County, Ind., where he has since made his home, with the exception of several trips to Illinois and the West. He was married Jan. 21, 1867, to Ruanna Lindamood, a native of Virginia, born Hov. 22, 1833, a daughter of Philip and Mary Lindamood. They have a good home of forty acres, all well improved. Mr. Hoover's father was born in Pennsylvania about 1768, and died in Virginia about 184:9. He was twice married, his second wife being Catherine (Funk) Wyatt, a native of Virginia, born in 1796. She died in Henry County, about 1856. They had a family of five children - Sarah, born Nov. 3, 1830; Hetty E., born March 28, 1832; Simon P., born Oct. 28, 1833; Joseph, deceased, born June 17, 1835; David, born Jan. 17, 1837.

John B. Jones^ son of John and Mary Jones, was born in Henry County, Ind., in ISJJ. He was reared a farmer, receiving his education in the common schools of Jefferson Township. He now owns a good farm of 135 acres, well improved and cultivated. He was married in 1878 to Amanda Heath, a native of Delaware County, Ind., born in 1850, and a daughter of Abner and Mary Heath. They have one child - Wilbert Earl.

Samuel Lyons was born in Pennsylvania, February, 1822, the youngest of seven children of Abraham and Anna (Hoover) Lyons, natives of Pennsylvania. Abraham Lyons came to Henry County, Ind., in 1838, and in 1839 entered sixty-two acres and bought forty acres of land, a part of the latter under cultivation. The children were - Susie, Sarah, Anna, Barbara, Martha, John and Samuel. Samuel Lyons has made Henry County his home since first coming here with his parents, and has assisted largely in its development. He was married in 1856 to Elizabeth Wetz, who was born in 1808, and died March 31, 1879. They had but one child - John, now deceased. He and his wife were members of the Lutheran church.

Andrew Maddy^ son of James and Anna Maddy, was born in Monroe County, V"a., June 1, 1808. When he was sixteen years of age his parents died leaving him to take care of himself. He then began to learn the carpenter's trade at which he worked six years. In September, 1828, he married Morcina Miller, a native of Virginia, born June 30, 1810. In October, 1832, with two children, they came to Henry County, Ind., camping the first night in Hew Castle. He had but $1.50 in money, but changed a horse and buggy and some bedding for forty acres of land on Honey Creek, which had on it a rude log cabin. Here they lived two years. He cleared about twenty acres of the land and erected more buildings. He then sold it for $150, and entered 120 acres in the black swamp, where he still lives. This took all his money and they were obliged to begin anew. They built a cabin of round logs, without any floor, and moved to their new home Sunday evening, camping in the woods over night, as no door had been cut in the cabin. The next morning the door was cut, and in this rude house they lived the first winter. Starting on nothing Mr. Maddy has undergone all the hardships of pioneer life and has acquired a good property, being worth at least $20,000. In 1832 his tax was $1.00; in 1883, $100. He now has a farm of 200 acres. He and his wife were members of the Old School Baptist church thirty years. His wife died Aug. 27, 1880, aged seventy years. Their family of eight children are all living in Henry County - James A.; Elizabeth, wife of H. Shoemaker; Isaac S. ; George W. ; Cynthia Ann, wife of Thomas E. Ray; Rhoda, wife of J. Shadlow; Philena, wife of William Latshaw; Sarah J., wife of C. J. Boker. There are seventy grandchildren, and ten greatgrandchildren. May 3, 1881, Mr. Maddy married Mrs. Ann R. Warren, widow of A. L. Warren, and daughter of James P. and Catharine Barnell. She is a native of Rockingham County, Ya., born Hov. 7, 1829.

Steward Muterspaugh^ son of Frederick and Elizabeth (Feldenberger) Muterspaugh, v/as born in Franklin County, Pa., in 1834. His parents were also natives of Franklin County, Pa., his father born in 1792 and his mother in 1813. They came to Henry County, Ind., in 1854, and located in Harrison Township, on forty acres of wild land. They had a family of nine children - John, Jacob, Steward, Anna, Margaret, Joel C., James, Caroline and Andrew. The father died in 1858 and the mother in 1870. Both were active members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Steward Muterspaugh has been a resident of Henry County, Ind., since first coming here with his parents, in 1854, and has assisted largely in the development of the county. He was a young man of energy and will, and went bravely to work to clear the forests and prepare the land for cultivation. He has always engaged in farming, although not exclusively. He has traded extensively in horses, and also dealt in buggies, carriages, harness, etc. His farm in Jefferson Township contains 144 acres of fine land, 124 - acres under cultivation. Commencing life with nothing, he has by hard and honest toil prospered and risen to considerable prominence in the county. He was married in 1855 to Margaret E. Thompson, a native of Ohio, born in 1839, a daughter of John and Haney Thompson. They have had a family of ten children - Jacob, Elizabeth (died at the age of fourteen years), George, John, James, Jane, Charlie (deceased), Henry, an infant (deceased), and Eddie. Mr. and Mrs. Muterspaugh are active members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Peter Netz^ a native of Butler County, Ohio, was born in 1840. When nine years of age his father died and he was obliged to depend upon himself for a livelihood. He went to Hamilton County, Ohio, and worked on a farm, where he had a brother, till 1856, when he came to Indiana and worked for Henry Wilkinson, who lived just east of I^7ew Castle, till the- fall of 1862. He then enlisted in the Second Ohio Infantry and served till Aug. 29, 1865. He did hard service for his country, but came out of the war uninjured. He then went to Ohio and remained in Hamilton and Butler counties till the spring of 1866, when he returned to his former home in Henry County, Ind. In the fall of 1867 he bought a half interest in a saw-mill, and continued that business seven years, when he sold his interest, and in 1874 began farming. Three years later he removed to Sulphur Springs, where he has since resided, having bought the saw and planing mill of Whitworth & Thompson. His mill has a capacity of 3,000 feet of lumber per day. Mr. Hetz has always taken an interest in the public welfare of the township, especially anything that tends to the promotion of education. He was married Oct. 31, 1867, to Phoebe, daughter of Elias and Jemima Pickens, and a native of Henry County, born Dec. 18, 1838. They have three children - Jeannetta, Frank and Minnie.

Christopher Painter^ a son of Alexander and Marv Painter. was born in Roanoke County, Ya., in 1809, and died in Henry County, Ind., in 1880. He was reared and educated in his native county, and in 1836 came to Henry County, Ind., his parents having preceded him. He located in Jefferson Township and became one of its most prominent citizens. He was a public-spirited, whole-sould man, and was always ready to advocate the adoption of any measure tending toward the good of the public. He was industrious, and was rewarded by becoming one of the wealthiest men of the township. He owned over a section of land at the time of his death, which was well improved. He was an active member of the United Brethren church, and one of its most liberal supporters. He was married in 1840 to Rebecca Rinker, a native of Union County, Ind., and a daughter of Geo. Rinker. They were the parents of six children - George W., J. D., Alexander, Mary, Thomas M. and William.

Josiah D. Painter^ son of Christopher and Rebecca Painter, was born in Jefferson Township, Henry Co., Ind., in 1844, where he was reared and educated. He was reared a farmer, and has always followed that vocation, owning at present a farm of 191 acres of choice land, with a pleasant residence and good farm buildings. He was married in 1873 to Helen A. Comstock, a native of Hew Castle, Ind., born in 18 , a daughter of Dr. J. S.

Thomas M. Painter^ son of Christopher aud Rebecca Painter, was born in Jefferson Township, Henry Co., Ind., in 1850. He was reared and educated in his native township. He has a beautiful home of 160 acres. He was married in 1880 to Lizzie M. Strickler, a native of Delaware County, Ind., born Oct. 23, 1858, a daughter of Peter C. and Margaret Strickler. Mr. and Mrs. Painter are members of the Christian church, and prominent citizens of the township. Mrs. Painter's father was born Dec. 17, 1830. He enlisted in the war of the Rebellion, was wounded, and died while being transported on the Mississippi. He was married Nov. 5, 1857, to Margaret Mowle, who was born June 22, 1838, and died Aug. 16, 1859. Mrs. Painter was their only child.

William J. Painter^ son of Christopher and Rebecca Painter, was born in Henry County, Ind., in 1852, and was reared and educated in Jefferson Township. He was married in 1875 to Margaret Hays, a native of HenryCoun^^^ born Nov. 27, 1854, a daughter S. B. and Catherine pGysJ^ They have two children, John and. Netta. Mr. Painter was reared a farmer, and now owns 180 acres of good land. He is one of Henry County's most energetic and respected citizens.

Alexander Personett^ the subject of this sketch, was born at Mt. Pleasant, Hamilton Co., Ohio, Dec. 25, 1836. His parents, Joseph and Rebecca Personett, moved to Henry County, Ind., when he was two years of age; he was reared to farm life and given a liberal common-school education. After he was twenty-one years of age he attended school for six months, and at the age of twenty-three commenced teaching school and taught for seventeen years. In October, 1859, he was married to Mary Ann Courtney. They lived together until May 20, 1865, when she died of consumption, at the age of twenty-five years. There were two children - Arthur L. and Lavinia Alice. The latter died at the age of one year and five months. In March, 1867, he was married to Yirginia E. Dunbar, to whom were born three children, Lilian, William J. and Ralph. Lilian died in September, 1869, at the age of eleven months. In 1866 Mr. Personett joined the Masonic fraternity. In 1874 he was elected Justice of the Peace for Fall Creek Township and served the term of four years, when he was re-elected by a largely increased majority and served about half of the last term, when he resigned on account of removing from the township. He moved to Sulphur Springs in the autumn of 1880 when, upon a recommendation of the citizens, the Commissioners Court ap-

David P. Province^ son of Joseph and Kate Province, was born in 1847 in Marion County, W. Ya., and was there reared and educated. When in his sixteenth year he enlisted in the Nineteenth Virginia Infantry, but was afterward mounted, and transferred to cavalry. He served two years and one-half under Stonewall Jackson, and after his death was under command of General Dick Ewell, till the latter was disabled, when he was transferred to the command of General Early. He was taken prisoner three times; was never wounded, but at one time had his horse shot from under him. After the war in 1865, became to Indiana and stopped in Benton County till the spring of 1866, when he came to Henry County and engaged in driving teams two years. He then rented a farm of Aaron Ivens in Prairie Township. Having no family he engaged Luther Ice and family to keep house for him; but his second year on the farm, Jan. 28, 1869, he was married to Josinah Ice, who was born in Henry County, Ind., Oct. 8, 1846, a daugliter of A. J. and Kachel (Clowson) Ice. In 1870 he built in Mt. Summit and lived there tiil"l873, when he bought seventy acres in Jefferson Township, principally timber land, which he cleared and cultivated. Since 1872 Mr. Province has taken the timber from 500 acres of land and has sold it to the Muncie, Cincinnati & Fort Wayne Railroad, his receipts for it being $17,800. After improving his farm he sold it and has since purchased several other tracts. At the present time he owns 221^ acres of land, all being well improved. He has been a prominent man in the township and has done much toward its development. Mr. and Mrs. Province have had five children - Mollie Bell, Frank W. (deceased), Andrew J., Joseph B. and Nellie May.

George W. Peedy^ son of Rebecca Reedy, was born in Rockingham County, Ya., in 1849. He was reared and educated in his native county, and in March, 1868, came to Henry County, Ind., having but $1.00 in money when he reached here. He began life ,in earnest and has by patient industry gained a good property. Sept. 21, 1871, he married Levina Strough, a native of Henry County, born in 1847, a daughter of John and Sarah Strough. After their marriage they lived with Mrs. Reedy's mother about eighteen months, Mr. Reedy taking charge of the farm. They then lived on the Wimmer farm two years, when Mrs. Strough urged them to return to their old home and they remained with her till her death, May 1, 1880, aged sixty-four years. In the meantime Mr. Reedy had bought eighty acres of land, and in 1881 they moved to their new home where they have since resided. They have one of the best farms in the county. They have one child, John Harrison, born Dec. 7, 1883, and have reared two children, not their own.

Jacob Richey was born in Rockingham County, Ya., in 1850, a son of John and Susan (Caracow) Ri^ey, the former born in Rockingham County, Ya., in July, 1817, and the latter in Augusta County, Ya., in 1819. His parents were married in 1841, and in 1870 moved to Henry County, Ind., locating in Jefferson Township, where they now live, having a good farm of forty acres. Their children are twelve in number, nine living - Mary C., Frederick, David, Rebecca Ann, Jacob, John, Sarah C., Peter and Emma. Jacob Richey cam'e with his parents to Henry County and has since made Jefferson Township his home. He owns a fine farm of eighty acres, all well improved. He was married in July, 1877, to Martha, daughter of Thomas and Sarah Seders. She is a native of Henry County, born in 1856. Mr. and Mrs. Richey have three children - Corice O. D., Cory M., and William O.

John Rutledge was born in Yermont in 1801, and in 1833 came to Indiana and settled on a farm in Monroe Township, Delaware County, adjoining Henry County, where he reared a family of thirteen children, ten of whom are living. His first wife was Hannah Williams, daughter of Abel and Rebecca (Hickman) Williams. Mr. Williams was rominently identified with the early history of Indiana. He came from Ohio to Delaware County, and entered 400 acres of land in Monroe Township. He was prominent in agricultural as well as political circles. Mrs. Williams was a Southern lady and in early life turned her attention to the study of medicine, which she put to practical use. She had an extern sive practice with women and children. She lived to be seventyfive years of age but in later life was a great sufferer, on account of the exposure she had undergone in riding over the country horseback. Mrs. Rutledge was born in Ohio in 1816 and died inj^ 1849. Her children were as follows: W. Y., who began the practice of medicine at Mt. Summit, Ind., about 1858, and afterward moved to Ohio. He enlisted in the Forty-second Indiana Cavalry and served during the war. He then went to Missouri and in 1868 located in St. Eouis, where he has an extensive practice and is also a Professor in the American Medical College. Rebecca (deceased), married Henry Shively, of Henry County. Mary is the wife of Amaziah Julian. Sarah is the wife of William Irwin, of Adams County, Ind. Serepta is the wife of Abraham Watson, Delaware County, Ind. Alice is the wife of Robert Downs. Samantha is the wife of William Downs. Josinah is deceased. In 1852 Mr. Rutledge married Martha J., daughter of James / Dyms of Warren County, Ohio. They had five children - John R., a minister of the Methodist Episcopal church, residing in Rockford County, Ind.; Elijah D., James, Charlotte G. (deceased), Margaret R., wife of Levi Runner. Mrs. Rutledge is a member of the Baptist church and Mr. Rutledge has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal church sixty years.

George W. Shane was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Sept. 6, 1837, a son of Timothy and Mary Ann Shane, his father a native of Beaver County, Pa., born May 2, 1813, and his mother of Steubenville, Ohio, born Feb. 14, 1815. About 1838 his parents moved to Pittsburg, Pa., and a year later to Beavertown. In 1845 they removed to Marietta, Ohio, remaining there twelve years. He worked four years in a bucket and tub factory in Marietta, but in 1857 came with his parents to Hew Castle, Ind., and the next year assisted Stephen Corey on his farm, and attended school. He then was employed a year and a half as engineer in a mill at Sulphur Springs, and from there went to the Middletown Mills,, where he remained till 1861, when he enlisted in Company B, Eighth Indiana Infantry, for three months and was appointed Fourth Sergeant. At the battle of Rich Mountain, July 11, he was wounded; the ball striking him in the left breast, passed through the left lung and out at the right shoulder, breaking it in three pieces. He was disabled nearly a year, but after his recovery, June, 1862, enlisted in Company K, Fifty-fourth Indiana Infantry, and served three months as First Lieutenant. He then returned to Middletown and remained till Sept. 16, 1864, when he organized Company H, One Hundred and Fortieth Indiana Infantry, and was elected its Captain. He served till the close of the war; was mustered out July 11, 1865. After his return from the war he was employed three months as fireman on the Pan Handle Railroad, running from Richmond to Chicago. He then went to the Liberty Mills and remained till 1868, when he purchased a third interest in the Middletown Mills. Nine months later he sold his interest and went to Kokomo, Ind., and clerked in a boot and shoe house. He afterward returned to the Howard Mills and remained six years. In 1876 he bought his farm of 200 acres in Jefferson Township. Captain Shane was married in 1862 to Elinor Swope, a native of Henry County, born April 17, 1812, a daughter of John and Mary Swope. They have had two children - Mary Y., born Oct. 29, 1863; Martha A., born Oct. 8, 1867, died Dec. 26, 1880. Mrs. Shane is a member of the Christian church. Captain Shane is one of the most enterprising citizens of the township.

George W. Showers^ son of John H. and Maria (Hicks) Showers, was born in Lebanon County, Pa., Dec. 25, 1817. When twentyone years of ^ age he began working at the carpenter's trade, which he still follows. He was married in 1871 to Lucinda A., daughter of David and Mary Ann Harter, a native of Henry County, Ind., born Sept. 27, 1846. They have had six children ; but three are living - Ralph W., born May 26, 1876; John D., born Feb. 12, 1878; Fred, born April 27, 1882. Mrs. Showers is a member of the Christian church. Mr. Showers is a member of Sulphur Springs City Lodge, Ho. 348, F. & A. M., and has been its Master a year. He is politically a Democrat. His residence is in Sulphur Springs.

Johji H, Showers was born in Lebanon County, Pa., Feb. 20, 1826, of German descent. He learned the shoemaker's trade when a young man, and worked at it during life, at the same time working at brick-molding in the summer season. He was married March 9, 1845, to Maria Hicks, a native of Lebanon County, Pa., born Oct. 12, 1823, of German and Irish descent. She now resides in Madison County, Ind. Mr. and Mrs. Showers had family of ten children - Sarah R. , of Madison County, Ind. ; George W., William and Henry (twins, deceased), EmmaE., Kittie Ann, Mary J., Benjamin F., of Holt County, Mo. ; Stephen A., deceased, Asa, of Madison County, Ind. In 1856 they came to Henry County, Ind., and lived in Mechanicsburg till 1860, when they moved to a farm near Honey Creek. In 1862 Mr. Showers enlisted in Company E, Eighth Indiana Infantry. He died o camp fever at Jefferson Barracks, Mo., Aug. 16, 1863, havin served faithfully till his last sickness. Mr. Showers was a member of the Winebrennerian church. His wife is a member of the German Baptist church.

David Sowash is a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1820, where he was reared and educated. In his nineteenth year he came to Henry County, Ind., and remained in the vicinity of Hew

Castle two years. He was employed in building Eli Herman's distillery, and after its completion helped to operate the mill. He returned to Pennsylvania, and in 1842 was married to Sara Brought, who was born in 1822. In 1849 he moved to Henry County, Ind., and located in Hillsboro, Prairie Township, and i 1854 removed to Iowa, but remained only two years. In 1857 1 cated in Jefferson Township, and in 1879 bought the farm where he now lives, a mile south of Sulphur Springs. His wife died in 1864. They had eight children; but three are living - John H. Catherine and Franklin. Elizabeth, William, Ellen, Margaret and an infant are deceased. In 1865 Mr. Sowash married Mrs. Charlotte Ivens, a daughter of George Trafford. She was born in 183 and died in 1868. In 1869 he married Mrs. Lydia Dunbar, daughter of Ephraim Kerlin. They have three children - Allie, Emma and Ephraim. Mr. Sowash has served his township four years as Trustee.

John Sowash^ son of Abraham Sowash, was born in 1805 in Westmoreland County, Pa., where he was reared and educated. He was by trade a blacksmith, working at this trade till 1840. He then worked in the salt works of Westmoreland County nine years, and at the same time dealt exclusively in horses. In 1851 he came to Indiana and located in Prairie Township, Henry County, but three years later moved to Jefferson Township where he died in 1861. He was married in 1823 to Betsey Stone, a native of Westmoreland County, Ya., born in 1799. She died in Henry County, Ind., in 1852. They had a family of seven children - Daniel, born in 1824, resides in Missouri; Rebecca, born in 1827, died in 1855; William, born in 1829, died in 1860; Abraham, born in 1831, died in 1831; Susannah, born in 1832, died in 1872; John H., born in 1835; Mary E., born in 1837, resides in Iowa. In 1853 Mr. Sowash married Minerva Conner, and to them were born two children - Samantha, now Mrs. Bowen Presnal, born in 1854, and Izetta, now Mrs. George Winnier, born in 1855. Mr. Sowash was a member of the United Brethren church, and throughout his life was strictly temperate.

JohnH, Sowash^ son of John and Betsey (Stone) So wash, was born in Westmoreland County, Pa., in 1835, and when sixteen years of age came with his parents to Henry County, Ind. He followed farming till 1866 when he moved to Sulphur Springs, and for two years was engaged in stock dealing, etc. In 1868 he bought an interest in the tile factor}^ of Rife & Hoover, which he has since principally conducted. In December, 1858, Mr. Sowash was married to Susan J. McClelland, a native of Harrison Township, Henry County, ^Jnd., born in March, 1837, a daughter of Hobert and Catherine McClelland. They have three children - Alice, born in 1860, wife of James O. Wright; Albert, born in 1866, and Katie, born in 1872. Politically Mr. Sowash is a Republican.

Ira Stout ^ son of William W. and Rebecca Stout, was born in Henry Township, Henry County, Ind., in 1851. His boyhood was spent on his father's farm, but he early turned his attention to engineering and the machinist's trade, at which he spent the greater part of his time. He now owns and conducts a fine farm of 320 acres in Jefferson Township. He was married Feb. 22, 1880, to Jennie, daughter of William and Hannah Deaver, and a native of Henry County, born in 1855. They have one child - William, born Dec. 29, 1881. Mr. and Mrs. Stout are members of the Christian church, and are among the prominent citizens of the township.

Absalom Strough^ son of John and Sarah (Miller) Strough, was born in Rockingham County, Ya., but has lived in Henrj? County^ from early childhood. After reaching his majority he rented and tilled a small piece of land, still assisting at home when he was needed. At the end of three years, when he was married, he had $400 at interest, a team of horses, two cows, a few head of young cattle and twelve pigs. He was married Feb. 9, 1860, to Mary C. Fultz, a native of Delaware County, Ind., born in 1840, a daughter of Daniel and Anna Fultz. After their marriage they lived on a farm rented of Mr. Strough's father nine years. In 1869 they moved to a farm previously purchased in Jefferson Township, a mile and a half northwest of Sulphur Springs, where they have since resided. Their home is well located, consists of 105J- acres of choice land, and is well improved with a fine residence and farm buildings. Mr. and Mrs. Strough have had nine children - William H., Sarah Ann (wife of John H^s), John D., Otto O., former died in infancy, and the latter aged eleven months. Mrs. Strough is a member of the Lutheran church. Mr. Strough is a. member of no religious society, but is one of the foremost in promoting the advancement of religious and moral interests.

John Strough^ deceased, was a native of Rockingham County, Ya., and died in Henry County, Ind. He was reared, educated and married in his native county, and in 1840 came to Indiana.

and settled in Fall Creek Township, Henry County, two miles east of Middletown. He bought eighty acres, only a small patch around the house cleared, and went to work to cultivate and improve it. In early life he learned the tailor's trade, working at it several years, and after he commenced farming he worked at his trade in the winter. His wife was Sarah Miller, also a native of Rockingham County, Ya. They had a family of fifteen children, eleven of whom attained their majority - Harvey; Elizabeth, wife of John Good; Absalom; George; Sarah, wife of C. Bowman; John, of Holt County, Mo.; Levina, wife of George W. Reedy; Abraham and Jacob, of Holt County, Mo.; Joseph, of Hamilton County, Ind. ; Ellen, wife of Samuel Davis. Mr. and Mrs. Strongh were members of the Dimkard church.

Noah W. War?ier was born in Rockingham County, Ya., March 10, 1832, and has lived in Henry County, Ind., since 1835. In his early life he worked at the carpenter's trade. In 1861 he enlisted in Company B, Eighth Indiana Infantry, and in 1862 re-enlisted in Company H, Sixty-ninth Indiana Infantry. Aug. 31, 1862, he was wounded at Richmond, Ky. Sept. 29, 1866, he was married to Ellen Ice, a native of London, Eng., born in 1841. She died Feb. 17, 1874, leaving one son - Jefferson Lee. After his marriage^ H. W. Warner opened a restaurant in Sulphur Springs, which he carried on a number of years. Since 1878 he has been Postmaster and also carries on a grocery and barber shop. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, Post Ho. 119. His father, Daniel Warner, was born in Montgomery County, Pa., March 30, 1793. His wife, Lydia (Co^) Warner, was born in Shenandoah County, Ya., April 14, 1803. In 1825 Daniel Warner came to Indiana and bought forty acres of land in Fall Creek Township, Henry County. He then returned to Yirginia, and in 1835, with his wife and ten children, came to Indiana and settled on his land, at the same time buying an additional forty acres. With the assistance of his sons he cleared and cultivated his land, and afterward bought forty acres more. He was one of Henry County's first surveyors and one of the first Trustees of Fall Creek Township. He was in early life a school teacher, and after coming to the new country was anxious for the establishment of good schools, doing all in his power to further the cause of education. He and his wife were members of the Lutheran church. Mrs. Warner died Oct. 3, 1870, and Mr. Warner, Jan. 28, 1872. They had a family of twelve children - Mary, Lucinda, David, Petei\

'William, John, Edward, Andrew, Koah, George W., Samuel, and James K. P. Peter and John were members of the Eighty - fourth Indiana Infantry ; George W., of the Twelfth Indiana Battery, and Samuel, of the Eighth Indiana Infantry. Peter and George died at Nashville, Tenn.

A. M. Westo7i was born in 1836, in Cleveland, Ohio, where he passed his boyhood and received his early education. When sixteen years of age he entered Oberlin College, and took half his course; then entered Antioch College, where he graduated, after which he taught two years. He then engaged as local editor of the Cincinnati Penny Press till 1862, when he enlisted in Company K, Fiftieth Ohio Infantry, and served three years. After his return home he took charge of the academy and public schools of Yernon, Ind., and when entering his third year at Yernon was induced to accept. the professorship of mathematics at Hiram College, Ohio. He remained there two years and then went to Eureka College, 111., to assume the professorship of Greek. He was for three years President of this college. He then returned to Indiana and bought a farm of fifty-eight acres in Jefferson Township, Henry County, where he has since resided. Since the war Mr. Weston has devoted considerable of his time to the ministry of the Christian church. He has also written a work on a Biblical subject entitled ''Evolution of a Shadow," pronounced by the editor of the Christian Standard "both novel and valuable," and from the press of the Standard Publishing Company of Cincinnati. He was married in 1867 to Miss Julia Pardee, of Hiram, Ohio, before her marriage a very acceptable teaclier of the college. They have One child - Nell E.

John W. Whitworth^ son of W. ,B. and Elizabeth Whitworth, was born in Jefferson Township, Henry County, Ind., March, 1841. He was reared and educated in his native township, spending his boyhood on his father's farm. In 1861 he enlistedm Company E» Eighth Indiana Infantry, and served four years. After his return from the war he engaged in farming, and now owns 132 acres of fine, well-improved land. He was married June 27, 1869, to Yermelia Ann Marlow, a native of Henry County, born in 1847, and a daughter of Johnston and Naomi Marlow. They have had three children-Charles, born August, 1872, deceased; Bert, born March, 1875, and Joseph, born in 1879. Mrs. Whitworth is a member of the United Brethren church.

William B. Whitworth^ son of Archibald and Elizabeth Whitworth, was born in Guilford County, N. C., Aug. % 1814. When fifteen years of age he came to Indiana with his uncle. Judge John Tomlinson, who entered a farm of 240 acres in Delaware County. He spent fivt3 years in assisting his uncle clear up the land, and then went to Muncie, Ind., which was then in its infancy, and began working at tlie carpenter's trade. A year later he came to Henry County and entered eighty acres of timber land in what is now Jefferson Township. He went bravely to work to clear up his farm and put it under good cultivation, at the same time working at his trade. Mr. Whitworth has always been one of the most industrious and progressive men in the county, and has done all in his power to advance all interests of common benefit. He has served as Town Trustee a number of years. A Republican in politics, he has always taken an interest in political affairs, and because of his enthusiasm was nick-named after one of Ohio's senators, "Old Ben Wade." He was for a number of years an active member of the Methodist church, until services of the society were discontinued in his neighborhood. His wife is a member of the United Brethren church. Mr. Whitworth was - - married Oct. 4, 1835, to Phizabeth, daughter of John and Elizabeth Tomlinson. She was a native of Rowan County, N. C., born Oct. *20, 1810, and died Sept. 28, 1853. They had a family of six children - Sarah Ann, deceased; Margaret, wife of Y. Cummins; John W.; Mary E., deceased, wife of Abraham White; Granville S.; Jemima J., wife of Joseph Hurst. May 28, 1854, Mr. Whitworth married Cat^rine, daughter of Richard and Henrietta Deaver. She was born in Rowan County, H. C., Dec. 8, 1823, and came with her parents to Wayne County, Ind., in 1828, and to Henry County in 1835. They have had eight children - Eliza J., deceased; Celinda E., wife of Patrick Smith; Celica C.; William W. ; Artenia C. and Eugenia E. (twins), the former, wife of John F. Coffman; Dlysses S. G., and Philip H. S.

Albert N. Yost, a son of William S. and Mary C. (Weaver) Yost, was born in Yirginia in 1836 and came to Indiana, where he was reared and educated. He has always followed farming, and now owns 290 acres of fine land. For twenty years he has, in connection with carrying on his farm, been engaged in auctioneering. In April, 1861, Mr. Yost enlisted in Company B, Eighth Indiana Infantry, for three months. He then enlisted in the Eight-fourth Indiana Infantry and served three years, when he was transferred to the Fifty-seventh Indiana Infantry, where he served several months, making a total of forty-three months in the service. He was married in 1867 to Mary 0. Sowash, a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1847, and a daughter of David and Uta Sowash. They have seven children - Harris E., Clem O., Charles M., Nicholas S., Nellie A., Paul and Uta. Mrs. Yost is a member of the Christian church. Mr. Yost, although a member of no church, is an earnest worker for any cause that tends to the upbuilding of society.

William S. Yost was born in Augusta County, Ya., about 1800. He was reared and educated in his native county, and there married Mary Catharine Weaver, also a native of Virginia, born in 1800. In 1839 they moved to Ohio, and lived near Dayton a year, then moved to Indiana and settled in Sulphur Springs, where he spent the remainder of his life. He laid off the town and opened the first store in Sulphur Springs, and it was at that time known by the name, although there was no village. He was obliged to carry his produce to Cincinnati and bring his stock from there with teams. A postoffice was established in 1843, and Mr. Yost was the first Postmaster. He continued in business thirteen years, when his son, J. W., succeeded him. In the early part of his residence in Henry County he bought 300 acres of land, mostly heavily timbered. His property accumulated until at the time of his death he owned 880 acres of land. He assisted in building the first and only mill in the township, for Yeatch & Bros., in 1863, and in 1858 bought the mill and ran it five years. Mr. Yost was one of the foremost in advancing all public enterprises. He liberally assisted in getting railroads through the county, and all educational and religious enterprises found in him a friend. He and his wife were members of the Presbyterian church. Mr. Yost died in January, 1863, and his wife in December, 1870. They had a family of eleven children, '^eight living till maturity - Samuel, died in 1861; Levi S., died in 1863; William M. , died in 1863; Mary Catherine, wife of Peter Warren, died in 1863; Harriet Y., died in 1863; J. W. and Albert N., reside in Jefferson Township; Sarah, wife of Joseph Thombson, of Henry County.

A Prosperous Township. - Its Oroanization. - First Officers. - First Land Entries. - Early Pioneers. - First Death. - Religious History. - Early Church Organizations.-Later Churches. - The Villages of Liberty Township. - Ashland and Millville. - Early Events. - Present Status. - Biographical.

Liberty Township is a large, wealthy and prosperous portion of Henry County. Its main industry is agriculture, and the land is well suited to a variety of crops. The farms and improvements will compare favorably with other portions of the county. The people are intelligent and thrifty. The township is watered by Flatrock and Syrnon's creeks and their tributaries. The surface is generally level. Liberty Township was formed by order of the county commissioners, Feb. 12, 1823, and an election ordered to be held at tlie house of Ezekiel Leavell^on the first Saturday in May, Leavell to serve as inspector. The township as originally" formed was smaller than at present. One tier of sections was taken from the east of Henry and added to Liberty in 1825. In the same year the house of Samuel D. Wells was made the election place of Liberty Township. At the first township election held in May, 1823, John Smith was chosen Road Supervisor; Jacob Tliarp and Cyrus Cotton, Overseers of the Poor.

Settlement seems to have began in this township as early as in any part of the county. Nearly all of the foregoing purchasers of land were actual settlers at the time of purchase or became so soon after. Christopher Mann is said to have been the first settler in the township. Other pioneers from 1819 to 1822 were: Elisha Long, Thomas R. Stanford, Ezekiel Leavell - all prominent in the early official history of the county; Moses Robertson, David Brower, John Leavell, Jesse Forkner, Robert Thompson, John Baker, Jacob, Peter and James Rhinehart and others. The township settled up quite rapidly, receiving immigrants from North Carolina, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Kentucky and other States.

In 1822 Peter and Susan Wise, natives of Pennsylvania, settled one-half mile east of where David Wise now lives. He died in 1876, and his wife in 1880.

John Odom and family were ainong the first settlers in the county, coming to the farm now owned by John H. Hewit while the Indians were still here.

Robert Boyd, a native of Kentucky, came from Wayne County, Ind., to this township in 1825. He died in 1854. His widow is still living, aged eighty-seven. Her son, Wm. L., an ex-County Commissioner, was born in Wayne County in 1822.

Wm. B md, a native of North Carolina, and a member of the Friends' Society, came to this township with his family in 1827. His son John lived and died here.

Wilson Wisehart, son of Benjamin Wjs^art, was born in Virginia in 1811. His parents came to Henry County in 1820, and settled on Symon's Creek. The family afterward removed to

Enos Bond, a member of the Society of Friends, was a native ot Wayne County. In 1830 he settled in Liberty Township, Henry County. He died in 1833. He was a successful business man and a worthy citizen.

Elias Pickens, an old settler, was born in New Jersey in 1812; passed his boyhood in Hamilton County, Ohio; visited Indianapolis when it contained only about a dozen houses, and helped hew the logs for the first store in that place; settled in Henry County in 1833.

Augustus Batchlield, a native of Germany, settled on Flatrock in 1834; moved to his present farm in 1866. Adam Wellser, Jr., settled in 1834, on the farm where his widow now lives. Mrs. Jane Wilson and family, from Kentucky, settled in this township the same year. Charles G. Wilson, Esq., is a prominent farmer.

Probably the first death in the township was that of Sarah Long. She died Sept. 11, 1822, at the age of sixty -six. Her husband, Christopher Long, a Revolutionary soldier and a pioneer settler, died Aug. 14, 1829, aged eighty-three years.

A school was kept on the farm then owned by Peter Wise, as early as 1834. Other early schools were maintained in different neighborhoods, sometimes in a room of a log cabin, and at other times in rude log buildings erected for school purposes.

' The township officers for 1884-'5 are: W. H. Wilson, Trustee; Richard Smith, Assessor; A. Welker, Justice; Augustus Batchfield, Constable.

Wm. Bond, John Davis (still living), George Hobson, Mordecai Bond, Stephen Marshall, Isaiah Huff, Luke Wiles, Sr., Luke Wiles, Jr., and their wives. The first meeting house was a log structure erected on the banks of the Flatrock. In a few years it became too small for the meeting and a frame house twenty-five feet square was erected on the same lot. It was afterward moved one mile northwest and an addition built to it. It was tlien ' used for the Monthly Meeting for fifteen years. This having been destroyed by fire, anew meeting-house, 26 x40 feet, in a very pretty grove, was erected in 1883 at a cost of $800. The first ministers were Rhoda Wiles and Joseph Stanley. The present ministers are Samuel Brown and several other members of the congregation. The present membership is eighty -five. A flourishing Sabbathschool was organized in September, 1883. Emma Allen is Superintendent. The school numbers over forty pupils.

Universalist. - The Universalist church in Liberty Township (the only one in the county) was organized in 18 - , by Wm. Bland, George and Thomas Runyan, Elias Pickens, John Williams, Dr. A. J. Batson, Dr. Isaac Baker and others, with their wives and families. The first services were held at the houses of Wm. Bland, Thos. Runyan, Geo. Runyan, and other members of the congregation. The first association was held at the old '' horse mill," on the farm where Wm. Boyd now resides. Among the first ministers were Judah Babcock, Jonathan Kid well and others. The house of worship was erected in 18J5, and has since been remodeled and enlarged. The building and grounds are worth $1,500. Membership, Seventy. Pastor, T. S. Guthrie. Officers: Frank Phelman, Moderator; John H. Hewit, Clerk; J. D. Wilson and Charles Hairiilton, Deacons.

German Baptist. - Locust Grove German Baptist Church was organized by Lewis Kinsey, Daniel Hardman, John Crull, David Hardman and other early settlers. Meetings were held for many years in barns, dwellings and school- houses. The present church was erected in 1864: at a cost of $800. The membership is 400. The present church oflicers are John Roller, Henry Eschelman and Jacob Ehebarger. There is a flourishing Sunday-school of about eighty pupils, organized in 1870. Lewis Teeter is Superintendent, and John Hoover, Secretary.

JVIartindale was oiie of the first ministers. Tlie church property is a good one, ample for the wants of the congregation. No statistics obtainable.

Ashland Church. - A meeting-house was erected in Ashland by the Methodists in 1857. It is a frame structure, 21x36 feet. The Methodist organization having become too small to support regular preaching, the church building is now used by all denominations whenever occasion requires.

A small village on the Chicago division of the C., St. L. & F. Kailroad, east of New Castle, was founded about 1851 and a postoffice established soon after. Joshua Johnson built and kept the first store. The first Postmaster was George Evans; the present is John Netz. Ashland contains one general store, one saw-mill, one blacksmith shop, one grain warehouse, one church and a small population.

This is a small village situated near the center of Liberty Township, on the C., St. L. & P. Railroad. It was founded in 1855, by John Hershberger, and has grown, but slowly. In 1880 its population was 111. It is now nearly twice that number. Millville has one general store, one drug and grocery store, one agricultural implement store, one grain ware-house, one saw-mill, one hotel, two blacksmith shops, one wagonshop, one minister, one church, two physicians and one graded school. Thomas Hood and Robert Becket opened the first store at Millville. The postoffice at this place was established about 1859, J. A. StaflPord being the first Postmaster.

Biographical

B. B. Allen., blacksmith and proj)rietor of a wood-work and general repairing shop, was born in North Carolina, Sept. 19, 1838, a son of Simon and Hannah Allen. He passed his early life on the home farm, and when fifteen years of age began to learn the blacksmitli's and wood-worker's trades, serving an apprenticeship of four years. When he was twenty-one years old he opened a shop of his own. He was married in June, 1860, to Sarah Jane Job, a native of North Carolina, born Jan. 8, 1837, and after Ill's marriage worked four years in Snow tlarnp Foundry, N. C. He was conscripted in the Rebel army, but, on account of his Quaker prejudices, refused to serve and was excused. In 1870 he came to Henry County, Ind., and remained three years, returning to Horth Carolina. Two years later he again came to the county and settled in Ashland, where he has since carried on a lucrative business. He is the manufacturer of the celebrated Allen's two-horse harrow. He and his wife are members of the Friends' Society. They have three children - David T., John W. and Jonathan L. Mr. Allen owns his place of business and a good residence in Ashland.

Charles Beall^ farmer, was born in Preble County, Ohio, March 30, 1824, a son of William S. and Lydia (Lane) Beall, his father a native of Maryland, and his mother of North Carolina. His parents were married in Ohio about 1816, and in 1830 moved to Henry County and settled in Liberty Township. They died in Blue River Township. Of a family of twelve children ten grew to maturity. Charles Beall received but a limited education. He was married Sept. 10, 1846, to Yesty Ray, daughter of Thomas and Martha Ray, natives of Virginia. He rented land till 1852, when he bought the farm of 163 acres where he now resides. He has cleared 100 acres of his land since moving on it, and now has one of the best farms in the township. His wife died Nov. 20, Eleven children were born to them - Martha, Andrew J., Sarah M., James R. (deceased), William, John, Eliza E,, Malinda, Charles B., Laurence and Thomas. Mr. Beall with his wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal church, but are now members of the Society of Friends. Politically he is a Republican.

Clarh Bland^ blacksmith, postoffice New Castle, Ind., was born in Liberty Township, Henry Co., Ind., in 1847, a son of William and Sarah Bland. He remained with his parents till his marriage, and for four years after worked on the farm with his father. He then went to Ashland and f>r:ned a partnership in blacksmithing, wood-work and repairing with Jasper Runyan, remaining with him eighteen months, when he built his present shop, and has since been carrying on the business alone. He is situated in one of the best fanning localities in the county, and commands a good paying business. In 1881 he bought half an acre of land of his father and built a residence, where he has since lived. He was married in 1871 to Mary Hamby, daughter of William and Hannah

Hamby, natives of Hew Jersey and Ohio respectively, She was born in Ohio in 1848, and came to Indiana with her parents. Mr. and Mrs. Bland have one daughter - Ella L. They are members of the Universalist church. Politically he is a Democrat.

William Bland^ Jr.^ was born in Philadelphia, Pa., May 1, 1802, a son of William and Mary (Rose) Bland, the former a native of London, Eng., and the latter of Hew Jersey. His father emigrated to America when he was twenty-five years of age. He was a sea captain and was lost at sea, Feb. 14, 1804. Our subject was early thrown on his own resources, and worked in several places in Hew Jerse}^, and also in Philadelphia. He began learning the cooper's trade with John Grliden & Co., of Philadelphia, who were manufacturers of tanks for sea vessels. He ran away from his employer because of his ill treatment, and started for Cincinnati with only 5 cents in his pocket. He finished his trade in Cincinnati. He was married Hov. 2, 1827, to Sarah Ann, daughter of John and Lena (Cole) Laboyteaux, the former of French and the latter of German descent. Of their eight children seven survive, two daughters and five sons. After his marriage Mr. Bland lived one year in Mount Pleasant, then bought a farm north of Mt. Pleasant. He reared his log cabin and cooper shop the same day and proceeded to clear his farm. He remained on the farm about ten years and followed fanning and coopering. In 1838 he moved to Henry County, Ind., and settled on the farm he had purchased the previous year, and where he has since resided, following coopering and farming till he was over seventy years old. He now owns 155 acres of excellent land. He and his wife are members of the Universalist church. He was one of the founders of the Devon church, over forty years ago, and belonged to the society long before there was a church.