Lincoln Township

Lincoln Township

Geographical Description. - Pioneer History. - First Religious Organization. - Political History. - Township Justices, Constables, Trustees and Assessors. - Statistics of Property and Taxation. - Brow.-sburg. - Business, Churches, Lodges, Etc. - Biographical. ,

Lincoln , one of the smallest townships in the county, is bounded on the north by Middle and Brown, on the east by Marion Count}-, on tlie suiith by "Washington, and on the west by Middle. It was organized by act of the county commissioners in 1863, by a division of Brown Township into two very near equal parts. The surface of Lincoln is almost a level plain, except in the western part, along White Lick, where the land is broken and rolling. Tb.e land along the stream is rich. The level portion has a very diversified soilj the black alluvial part is very rich and productive, while some of its clay soil is third rate in its advantages for production.

The first settlement in the territory of Lincoln Township was made by James Brown, in the autumn of 1S24. Previous to 1830 the following came: G. W. Tyler, William Harris, Daniel and Thomas Newman, Daniel Brown, "William Merritt, Robison Turpin, Caleb Shirley, John. Given, Larkip Dollahite, James Shirley and Thomas Nash; also Harvey and T. H. Barlow, who settled with their father Enoch just outside the limits of Brownsburg, in 182S. In 1830 and soon after Asa McDaniel and sons, Joel Smith and sons and Peter Metsker settled in the neighborhood of Brownsburg.

Swaira's tavern, on the road two miles east of Brownsburg, was a general resort for many years, especially for those of the settlers who were convivially inclined.

In the year 1828 or '29, the Regidar Baptists built a church at the cross-roads south of Thomas Newham's, in which Archibald Thorne taught, in the same year, the first school in the township. Thomr.3 JSTewham, D. D. Brown, Y. J. Brown, William Harris, Mrs. Kice and some others were pupils of this school. The next school district organized was near Browusburg, where Jesse Smith taught first in 1832, in the log house wiiich still stands at the toll gate, one-half mile west of town. Rev. Thomas Sparks began his education at this school. The church organized in the meeting house just referred to was the first church organization in the township, and among the earliest of Hendricks County. This congregation worshiped hero for several years, and then built them a new house on the farm of Mr. Swaim, the proximity of which to a tavern proved disastrous to the morals of many of the brethren, and the congregation was dissolved and re-organized at Salem, three miles below, where the church still exists. .

Political

In politics Lincoln was Bepublican until about fifteen years ago, since when it has gone Democratic. Following is the vote for President at each election:

Official

Justices of the Peace: Jacob P. "Welshans and William M. Brown, 1SG3; Harrison S. Turpin, 1865; W. £. Brumfield and William Hylton, 1866; Thomas W. Morgan and John W. Smith, 1867; Robison Tiirpin, 1868; Isaac C. Nash, 1869; William B. Eoagland and Jacob Miller, .1870; Israel L. C. Bray, 1872; Isaac W. Gray, IS"!; Joseph M. Tolle, 1876; Isaac W. Gray, 1878; Jo.=<eph M. Tolle, ISSO; Charles W. Tyler, 1882; Joseph M. Tolle and Robert Miller, 1384.

Will Rob. Smith and Israel L. C. Bray, 1864; Heath and Henry Stewart, 1865; H. R. Barlow and Thomas W. Wingate, 1866; John Davidson and Josiah McDaniel, 1867; Josiah McDaniel and John Kainey, 186S; Benjamin F. Logan and Simeon Tharpe, 1869; H. G. Turpin and Robert A. "Watts, 1870; Benjamin F. Logan and Daniel South, 1872; Redding Bray and Charles Ridgeway, 187-4; Benjamin F. Logan and Redding Bray, 1876; William J. Eblin and John Garvey, 1878; Edward Hughes and Solomon B. McClain, ISSO; Philip E. Stevensonand Benjamin F. Anderson, 1882; Everson Eaton, Horacf) Cook and Thomas Gorner, 1884.

The village of Brownsburg, witli 800 inhabitants, is on sectioa 11, in the noithern part of the township, and is a station on the I., B. & W. Railroad. Itjvaslaid out by WilliamHarris in 1835, and named by him Harrisburg, but the name was changed to Brownsburg when the postofSce was established. B.__^il . Jj.ogan was the first merchant at Brownsburg.

Brownsburg was incorporated in 1848^ in which year the Board of Commissioners of Hendricks County ordered the following officers elected: Chairman, clerk and five trustees. The election was held June 24, 1848, and resul;ed in the choice of the following: Chairman, Henry H. Moore; Clerk, T. J. White; Trustees:

History Of Hendricks Cocntt

First Ward, William M. Dinwiddie; Second Ward, T. J. White; Third Ward, Sam Bctts; Fourth Ward, Gaten Menifee; Fit'tii Ward, Jaraea Davidson. Ten votes only were cast at this first election.

Mrs. T. D. Anderson, millinery; T. D. Anderson, blacksmith; James Bonney, drugejist; Bell & Watts, hardware; O. F. Brown, wagon-maker and blacksmith; A. G. Bohannon, livery; Cook & Co., saw-mill and fence factory; Owen Clark, shoe shop; Cope & Hunt, general store; John Dugan, grocery; W. F. Dinwiddie, grocery and postoifice; Ellis Bros., tile factory; Grandison Eaton, brick yard, Charles Forshee, wagon-maker and blacksiiiith; M. D. Green, druggist; J. W. Griflith, barber; James Hogan, grocc-; Mrs. Hunt, millinery and dress-making; E. C. Keen, meat market; Joseph H. Kelley, barber; Mary Laiigsdale, dress-making; 0. D. Lumkins, furniture and undertaking; Charles Miller, shoe sho]i; S. W. McDonald & Bro., general store; Thomas O'Day, groce-; Malachi Quinn, grocer; D. W. Sparks, grocer; Smith & Hawkins, grist and saw mill; C. L. Tomlinson, livery; J. M. Toll, general store; Samuel W. Watts, grocer; Hugh'Young, grocer.

The medical profession is represented by Joel T. Barker, A. W. Davidson, T. A. Graham and J. L. Marsh (Horn.). The attorneys are J. H. Johnson, John K. Jones and John E. Sheehan.

Religious

Christian Church. - The oldest and leading church in Brownsburg, and the second formed in the township, is the Christian, which was organized in_lS3o,_ by Thomas Lockhart, with seventeen members. John L. Parker and V. Cress were the elders. Tho society now uses a brick church built in 1S59, at a cost of $1,500. It will accommodate 400 people. The membership is very large - about 250. Services are held monthly, Rev. Mr. Gilchrist, of Irvington, being the present pastor. He was p -eceded by J. YLudwig, of Greencastle, A. J. Frank, of Greeucastle, and Johr. Camfield, of Indianapolis. The present Elders aad Overseers are: J. A. C. DobsonandB. O.Davidson; Clerk, L. S. Hunter; Dea cons, Charles Tyler, Theodore Cnill, Charles Harmon and Everett Hopkins. The Sunday-school has 100 members, and is in charge of Jesse R. Cope.

History Of Hendricks Codntt

the village. They have a brick church, which is about ten years old. The society, however, is small, and not in a prosperous condition. The oldest member living is Mrs. Forshee. Occasional services are now held by Rev. Mr. Warren, of Clermont. Revs. I. P. Patch, T. M. Webb and JohiiB. Demott have filled the pulpit bereduri.ig the last few years.

The Pre-shyterian Chiirch was organized by George Long, who raised money to build a church in 1S65. This cost $2,300.. Amonothose who have served as pastors here are Revs. Beach, McKee and Mayo. The pnlpit at present is filled by Rev. H. L. Dickerson. The membership of the societ}' is about twenty.

St. M(tlachy''s Catholic Churches oldest record bears date Auo-. 26, 1S67, and was made by Rev. D. J. McMiiUen, through whose exertions tiie church was built. Very Rev. Aug. Bcssonies was there Feb. 20, 1869, and the first resident priest commenced his labors there Oct. 20, 1869. He was succeeded, after a time, bv Rev. Dennis O'Donovan. The latter served some years at this point, and then exchanged with Rev. Thomas Logan, of Greencastle, where he remained a year or two. Returning in 1877 he found the parish in debt for certain improvements made by Father Logan, and O'Donovan denied the. validity of the debt. Bishop Chatard took the opposite view, and to secure the creditors cr^ve a mortgage on the church property. Father O'Donovan contested the right of the Bishop to mortgage the property, but the court decided for the Bishop. The latter then asked, and obtained from the; Supreme Court, a writ of ejectment against the priest, who also lost a subsequent suit for $50,000 damages for loss of employment, etc. During these tx-oubles, mass was regularly held at private houses or in a rented hall, by Revs. Patrick Shepherd, Casper Seller, Charles Curran and E. J. Spelman. The last named is the present pastor, and came here in April, 1881. Father Spelman was born in Cincinnati, Sept.' 28, 1S50; was ordained priest by Bishop de St. Palais at New Albany, April 3, 1873; wus assistant priest at St. John's Church, Indianapolis, until January, 1875, and pastor at Rushville till July 26, 18S0, when sickness compelled him to resign. He then remained at Indianapolis until ;!])pointed to this charge. His congregation includes eighty-five families. Services are held every Sunday.

1857. Of the members of that organization, there are bow living Jacob P. Welshans, J. II. McQuowti (charter members), J. A. C. Dobson, Hughes White, Isaac Long and S. "W. Potts. The lodge ceased meeting at the opening of the civil war, but was revived in 1866, since when it has prospered. It has now forty members, and meets at Odd Fellows Hall every Wednesday niu-ht. The

The Trustees of -^'iJ^yillage of Brownsburg for 1885 are Robert Bell, James Bonuey and A. W. Davidson. The School Trustees are Dr. J. T. Barker, F. M. Hughes and Jesse R. Cope.

John G. Adams, deceased, was born June 19, 1817, in Harrison County, Ky. When a boy he came with bis parents, James and Eleanor Adams, to Putnam Countj, Ind., whv-e he was married Sept. 29, 1847, to Sarah E. Park, a daughter of John and Melinda Park, of Putnam County, formerly of Kentucly. To Mr. and M^s. Adams were born nine children - -St'^linda E., Sarah J., Francis Y^., Jonn A., Margaret E., Dalcena, James M., Letha H. and Mary E. Margaret E. and Dulcena are deceased. Mr. Adams's death occurred in August, 1865. He was a kind husband and fatlier and was universally respected. His widow still resides on the

Theophilus H. Barlow was born iu Harrison County, Ky., Feb. 1, 1820, a son of Enoch and Jane Barlow. _ In 1S2S his parents moved to Hendricks County, Ind., and settled in the northern part of Wasliington Township, on land entered by his father in 1S26. He is the only one living of a family of twelve children. He was reared and educated in Hendricks County, and is now one of the leading agriculturists of Lincoln Township. He owns 223 acres of land, all under cultivation, and his improveriients are among the best in the township. He was married Aug. 2J:, 18i2, to Susan A., daughter of John and Elizabeth JMoberly, early settlers of Hendricks County. They have had eleven eliildren, two of whom are living - Mary A., now Mrs. Kobert Belf, of Brownsburg, and Abbie Z. Mrs. Bell has nine children - ^Clyde TV., Lloyd T., Ernest E. and Grace I. (twins), ISCellie S., Charles H., Zoe M., Estelle C. and Clara P. Eliza J., wife of Aaron ISt. Crouch, died Dec. 25, 1S79, leaving three children - Estella May, William H. and Joanah S. Enoch M. died March C, 1S70, aged twenty-two years. Thcophilus died Oct. i, 1363, aged oine years. "William Harvey died Sept. 4, 1S61, aged seven years. Gillum L. was killed by a run-away team May 29, 1S71, aged ten years. Charles A. died Feb. 1, 1881, aged sixteen years. Three died in infancy. Mr. Barlow and his family are members of the Presbyterian church, which- he has served as Elder twenty-five years. He is a member of Brownsburg Lodge, No. ISS, L O. 0. F. In politics he is a Eepub'.ican.

Yolney J. Brovm was born Feb. 1, 1S17,, in Scott County, Ky., a son of Daniel and Elizabeth Brown, natives of New Jersey and Delaware respectively. They moved to Hendricks County, Ind. in 1828, and settled in Lincoln Township w.Jiere the father entered 160 acres of timber land, and endured nuiuy discomforts in his pioneer home. To his parents were bora ten child i-cn, but two now living - -Yolney J. and George. Yolnej- J. came t.; this county with his parents when a boy and was here i-eared to luanhood. He has worked at the carpenter's trade for ra.any years, but his chief occupation through life has been farming, and he now owns a good farm of 140 acres, under a high state of cnltivation. March 25, 1841, he was married to Susan Butler, bo>ni in Franklin County, Ind., April 12, 1816, a daughter of Williiim and Nancy Butler. They have had five children - William M., Isaac H. (deceased),

History Of Hendeick3 Countt

Joh7i Coi'Uss, son of jMichael and Hannah Corliss, is a native of County Galway, Ireland. "When he was about fitteen years of ago he immigrated to America, and settled in Hendricks County, Ind. He has always fallowed farming pursuits and now owns a good farm of ninety-six acres, situated in Hniou Township, this county. He was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Greeley, a daughter of John and Bridget Greeley, and to them were born nine children, six of whom survive. Those living are - Michael, John, Mary T.. Thomas, Delia and Patrick. Mr. Corliss is a consistent member of the Roman Catholic church. In politics he is a Democrat.

Mrs. Maria Davis, daughter of Daniel and Annie (Smith) Xcwham, was born Oct. 16, 1818, in Scott County, Ky. When very young she removed with her parents to Hendricks County, Ind., where she was reared. April 16, 1840, she was married in this county to Thornton F. Goiliam and to them were born six children - John A., Daniel S., William, Thomas J., Priscilla and Thornton. Thomas J. is deceased. Mr. Gorham died in January, 1853, and our subject was again married, this time to James Davis, in August, 18G0. Mr. Davis died in December, 1878, leaving Mrs. Davis owner of a good farm of 100 acres in Lincoln Township. Mrs. Davis is a member of the Regular Baptist church.

Benjaviin 0. Davison was born Oct. 2, 1833, in Hamilton County, Ohio, a son of Robert and Mary Davison, the former a native of Ohio and the latter of Kentucky. In 1837 they came to Hendricks County, Ind., from Ohio, settling near Brownsburg where his father entered 160 acres of nncultivated land. Here they experienced some of the discomforts of pioneer life. Seven children were born to them of whom four are living - Sarah A., Margaret E., John W. and our subject. The latter was reared on a farm in this county. Ho was married April 10, 1856, to Theressa Shirley, daughter of "William P. Shirley, an early settler of Hendricks County. They have three chikh ni - William P., Thomas J. and Carrie E. Mr. Davison lived on iiis farm, one mile north of Brownsburg, until the fall of 18S1, when he retired to Brownsburg. He owns a good farm of 125 acres, all under a high state of cultivation. For several years he has served as Elder in the Christian church. Politically he is practically independent.

of Hendricks County from Kentucky. He was reared and educated in his native county and in his youth learned the bricklayer's trade, which he has followed the greater part of tlie time, and at onetime was engaged in contracting and built some of the best houc-es in the township. He owns a fine farm of 100 acres, which he superintends in addition to working at his trade. In August, 1861, Mr. Eaton enlisted in Company B, Seventh Indiana Infantry, and served till August, lS6-±. He participated in some of the most important battles of the war, among them being Greenbriar, "Winchester, Cedar Mountain, second Bull Bun, Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, "Wilderness, Petersburg and Spottsylvania Court- House. In January, ISGo, Mr. Eaton was married to lilary F. Lawler, of Hendricks County. They are members of the Christian church. Mr. Eaton has been a member of the "Village Council three years.

John W. Griffith^ one of the prominent business men of Brownsburg, was born in Putnam County, Ind., March 10, 1835, a son of Samuel and Camelia R. (Witty) Griffith. His father was one of the pioneers of Putnam County, locating there in 1820. He died at Vicksburg, Miss., of cliolera in 1837. The mother is now the wife of John Couley, of Franklin County, 111. "When fourteen years of age our subject began to work as a farm hand which he continued two years. "When sixteen years old he went to Grcencastle and began learning the barber's trade, serving an apprenticeship of three years. He then worked as a journeyman about ten years visiting mainly the towns on the Mississippi River. He has been a resident of Brownsburg since 1876, where he has built up a good trade. He is thoroughly conversant with all branches of his trade in additi.Mi to which he carries a stock of jewelry and does a watch-repairing business. Afr. Griffith was married Nov. 18, 1863, to Rebecca Steepleton, of Edgar Count}', 111. Of the eight children born to them but two, the eldest and youngest, are living - Camelia E. and Carl. Mr. Gritiith enlisted in July, 1861, in Company C, Eighth Illinois Infant ;, and participated in the battles of Fort Donelson, "Vicksbur-' Ra^-mond, Jackson and others of less importance. He wan a faithful soldier and was honorably discharged in August, 1861:. Before the war he was a Democrat in politics but since the war has given his suffrage to the Republican party and is one of the most earnest workers in its ranks. He is a member of the Christian chnrch.

County, Conn., a son of Alvah and Aurelia Hoadley, who moved to Hendricks County, Ind., in 1S3S, and the following spring settled in Lincoln Township. Mr. ELoadley was reared on a farm and received but a limited education. He lias been a resident of this township since coming Iiere with his parents in 1S39, with the exception of one year spent at Pittsboro, and one j-ear at Arno, where he was engaged in the mercantile business. He was married in August, ISiG, to Miss Elizabeth Larsh, of this county, formerly of Kentucky. They have four children - Alva T., Sarah E., Cerena and Mary. Mr. Hoadley is one of Lincoln Township's leading farmers. He owns 193 acres of land in tliis county and eighty acres in La Porte County. In politics he casts his suffrage with the Democratic party. He is a member of the Christian chiirch. ,

Wiley G. Hull, son of Jesse and Mary Hull, was born iMay 11, 1810, near Zancsville, Ohio. His parents had a family of eight children of whom only twj survive - ^^Yiley G. and Giles. Wiley G. was brought to Indiana by his parents at a very early age, and when he was nine ycf.rs of age he was left an orphan. He then lived with Dr. Le\i Eitter, of Pleasant Garden, Putnam County, for several years, and at the age of fourteen he began to learn the blacksmith's trade with "Wtlliain "Wilkin, of Plaintield, Hendricks County, with whom he remained several years. In Se]>tember, 1S61, he enlisted at St. Louis in the Second Missouii Cavalry and participated in numerous battles and skirmishes, among which were Chattanooga, Prairie-De-Hand, Little Missouri, Selma, iurkville and Meirphis. He was slightly wounded during the campaign and his con;;titutioii was greatly impaired. He was honorably discharged in September, 186-5. Jan. 25, 1S66, he was married to Jane Walker, a daughter of Joseph Walker (deceased). Nine children have been born to them, six now living - Sarah L., Wade, OUie, Haskett, Oscar and Ada. Elora, Iva and Laura are deceased. Mr. [lull is at present living on his farm in the northeast part of Lincoln Township. He is a uicmberof the Grand Artny of the Pepublic. He also belongs to the Christian church.

William Ryltoa, a prominent farmer and stock-raiser of Lincoln Township, was born in Gr.iyaon County, Va., July 5, 1S29, a son of Samuel and Elizabeth Hylton, natives of Virginia. His parents came to Hendricks County, Ind., in 1835, and for a short time lived near Cartersburg, th;n removed to Washington Township where the father died in .J auuarj, 18-12. Of a family of si;-: chil- dreii, but two are living - William and Taraanda J. Wesley, Eli, Stephen and E"ancy £. are deceased. William Hylton was reared and educated in Hendricks County. His early life was spent on a farm and since attaining matiiiood he has eug.iged in agricultural pursuits. He owns a iino farm of 160 acres and his residence and farm buildings are comfortable and commodious. He was married in September, 1S50, to Margaret J. Barlow, daughter of John and Martha Barlow, early settlers of Montgomery County. To them have been born nine children, but Hve of whom are liviuo- - Theodra A., Viola, Lillie B., Maggie and William H. Charles W., John S., Martha and Mary E. are deceased. Mr. Hylton has been prominently identified with the Presbyterian church many years, and is serving as Deacon and Elder at the present time. He has served as Commissioner of Hendricks County three years.

William M. Jenkins was born iu Guilford County, IST. C, Oct. 15, 1833, a son of John and Eebecca Jenkins, early settlers of Hendricks County. He was reared on a farm, receivino- a o-ood education iu the public schools. He remained at home till April 1861, when he enlisted in Company A, Seventh Indiana Infantry, and served three montlis. In February, 1863, he enlisted in the Sixty-third Indiana Infantry and served till tlie following August, when he was discharged on account of ill-health. He then returned to Hendricks County, and has since devoted his attention to agriculture. He has a good farm of seventy-five acres on section 22, Lincoln Township, all under cultivation. Mr. Jenkins was married in January, 1863, to Hannah L. Beed, who died in",March, 1867, leaving two children - Luella W. and John L. In November, 1876, \^ married Elizabeth J., daughter of James W. and Bachel Townsend, of Fount;i.m County, Ind. To them have been born three children - Geoi'^e il., Katie A. and Susan L. Mrs. Jenkins is a member of the Presbyterian church.

Dr. John L. Marsk vf&s born in Brown Township, Hancock County, Dec. 27, 1851. His father, Jonas iKarsh, was one of the first settlers of the county having moved from. East Tennessee to the county in 1S37 and lived 'continuously upon tiie samefiirra until his death in 1877. Daring this time he helped to clear the forests, drain the swamps, make roads a.id convert the wilderness into broad grain fields. He reared U large family of children and o-ave them a liberal education. Some are graduates of Asbury University and all have ^ occupied prominent positions in the social and political affairs of the coimty. One son has been County

Clerk eiglit years and is now a prominent attorney at Greenfield; another son is an attorney, and the youngest is a physician, the others being farmers. To his children ho bequeathed a record of a sterling character and Quaker lionesty which he in turn received from his father who was a Quaker of the strictest faith. John L. Marsh, the youngest sou, at the age of eighteen entered the office of Dr. William Trees as a medical student. In 1S72 and 1S73 he attended a course of lectures in the Louisville Medical College and was in attendance at the United States Marine Hospital for the remainder of the year. The next year he attended the Ohio Medical College receiving the degree of M. D. at the close of the term. He was the youngest member of the graduating class being just twenty-one years old. After leaving college, in 1S74, he located in "Warrington, Hancock County, and commenced practice with his preceptor. In 1S77 he moved to Greenfield where most of his relatives lived, and where he built up a fine practice. Not being satisfied he determined to move to Indianapolis but friends persuaded him to go to Brownsburg as it was close to the city and otlierwise desirable. This he did in the fall of ISSl, and has practiced medicine at this place for the past four years. Daring this time he has enjoyed a fine practice built np among strangers and without assistance, opposed by the local jirofessiun on account of his liberal ideas and belief in progressive medicine, as his idea of medical practice is to use any remedy in any manner that will most speedily cure disease and relieve sufl'ering. In 1S79 he commenced the publication of a medical journal .xt Greenfi.eld, devoted to liberal medicine. This proved a success and soon gained a good circulation, ^he next year it was moved to Indianapolis where it is still being published with some modifications by its original editor in conjunction with other parties. The ofiice of publication is IIS N'orth Illinois street, at which place the Doctor has a consultation otfiee. In 1SS3 the Ijeach Medical College was organized on a liberal basis, and the chair of physiology was given to Dr. Marsh, which position he still retains, as the college has proven a success financially and otherwise. The Doctor's motto of professional life has been to be honest and upright with his patrons and to never slander or speak slighting'y of other practitioners but to attoncP strictly to his own business. The Doctor's social life has been a pleasant one. In 1S7.5 he married Laura E. Trees, daughter of John W. Trees, of "Warrington, [nd., who has contributed largely to his success in life. She attends to ber domestic duties to the almost entire exclusion of fashionable life and sees tliat home is what it should be. Duiinej the ten years of married- life three children have been born to them. Florence, tlie eldest, died at the age of four years and this was the greatest affliction the family has sustained as she was a child of unusual promise. Mabel, the next, is now five years old and is a beautiful and intelligent ciiild, having her niind enriched by travel and contact with people until her knowledge is greater than many grown people. Katie is the baby and bids fair to make another Florence. The Doctor each year leaves the cares of business and with his family takes a trip to some of the fishing resorts and spends a few days in boyhood pleasures and takes a renewed lease on life. They have a nice residence with his office near by, in one of the best localities in Brownsburg.

James M. Me^lcer was born in Hendricks County, Ind., Feb. 3, 1856, a son of Peter and Elizabeth Metsker, pioneers of this county. He was reared and educated in his native county and since attaining manhood has devoted his attention to agricultural pursuits, owning now a fine farm, on section 28, Lincoln Township. Mr. Metsker was married April 14, ISSO, to Mira A. Barlow, daughter of Harvey and Sarah J. Barlow. To them liave been born three children - Robert L., Eva .M. and Alpha G. Mr. and Mrs. Metsker are members of the Presbyterian church, and among the prominent young people of Lincoln Township.

'William n. IT. Metsker is a native of Hendricks County, born April 3, lSJr9, a son of Peter and Elizabeth Metsker, his father a native of Ohio and his mother of Delaware. His parents were early settlers of Hendricks County and were prominent in assisting in its development. His father died in December, ISSi, and his mother is still a resident of Lincoln Township. They had a family of eight children, but four of whom are Uviasf - John T., William H. H.,, James M. and Mary. W. H. H. Metsker was reared a farmer, a vocation he has followed since attaining manhood. He has been successful in his pursuits and now owns 165^1- acres of valuable land on section 22, Lincoln Tovrnship. He was married Dec. 21, 1871, to Melinda J. Merritt, daughter of George "W. Merritt, of Washington Townthip. They have six cliildren - Nora M., Cora E., Ora L., Mary £., Lillie II. and Charles O. Mr. and Mrs. iletsker are members of the Presl.'jterian church.

and Hannah Nash, natives of Pennsylvania and Virginia respectively. They einijrrated to Indiana in 1825, and lived one year in Marion County. They then came to Hendricks County, locating on White Lick Creek in Lincoln Townsliip, where they entered eighty acres of land. About lSi5 they moved to Missouri, remaining there till their death. Of the nine children born to them six are living - Margaret, Elizabeth, Isaac C.,Mary S., Sarah A. and Daniel. George, Eichard and Jeremiah are deceased. Our subject came to this county witli his parents when a boy and was here reared to maturity. ^He was first married Jan. 23, ISll, to Cilicia Wilson, daughter of Williani and Nancy Wilson. They have had nine children - William J., Mary E., Clarinda, Thomas J., Edward F., George A., Cilicia, John and Albcrtus. John and xilbertus are deceased. Mrs. Nash died Dec. 13, 1S60, and Mr. Nash was again married in April, lS6i, to Eliza J. Faucett, daugliter of Joseph and Rebecca Faucett, early settlers of Hendricks County. In lSi.3 Mr. Nash settled on section 3, this township, and now owns 220 acres of land. He is a member of the Presbyterian church and has served as Elder several years. His wife is a member of tlio Methodist Episcopal church.

Charles W. Need, a prominent farmer of Lincoln Township, was born in Bourbon County, Ky., March 29, 1834, a son of Nathaniel and Sallie Neal. His mother died when he was a year old, and when he was nine his father died. His early life was spent in his native State and in Illinois, and in 1S64 he came' to Hendricks County, Ind., and located in the southern part of Lincoln Township where he has since lived. ]Ie owns a large farm of 400 acres, and his improvements are nnexcelled in this county. Air. Neal was married July 4, 1S61, to Emma S. Bradley, of Kentucky. Four cliildren have been born to tiiom - Tabner, Claude, Forest, and Lorenzo; the latter is deceased. In politics Mr. Neal is a Democrat.

Thomas JVeioham, a pioneer of Lincoln Township, was born Oct. 30, 1816, in Seott County, Ky., a son of Daniel and Annie Newham, the former a native of Maryland, and the latter of North Carolina. In the fall of 1826 his parents moved to Hendricks County from Marion Count), Ind., where they had located a short time. They then settled on section 20, Lincoln Township, wiiero they lived till th.eir death, and where our subject yet resides. Here he v»-as reared to manh'jiod, receiving but little education, as his services were re!_[uired on the farm. He now has a good farm of

130 acres of land under a high state of cultivation. In 1844 he was married to Miss Xancy Turner, of Boone Co.untj, and to them were born two children, both of whom are deceased. Mrs. Newham died in lS-19, and he was married to Miss Nancy (Larimore) Morgan, of Marion County. Of eiglit children born to them only one . survives - Robert F. Mr. Newham has held the office of School Director.

John K. T. Patterson, son of Francis and Margaret (Eoss) Patterson, was born in Fleming County, Kj'., Feb. 7, 1813. His parents moved with their family to Hendricks County, Ind., in 1S35, remaining here till their death. Of their family of five cliildren, but two survive - John K. Y. and Susan. John K. Y. was married in August, 1835, to Miss Arie Shockley, daughter of James B. Shockley, of Fleming County, Ky. To thorn have been born ten children - James PI., Francis M., William E., John W., Silas, Eosanna, Esther, Margaret E. (deceased), America and' Carrie. Mr.' Patterson saw much of pioneer life in his youth. He has been engaged in agricultural pursuits from his youth and has met with success. He has a farm of 19G acres of land, and resides in the part of Lincoln Township.

Emanuel Prebsten- was born June 15, 1813, in Scioto County, Ohio. His parents were John and Christena Prebster, natives of Germany. They were the parents of si.t children, of whom three are living - Keuben, Christian, and Emanuel, our subject. The latter came to Hendricks County, Ind., with his father's family, who entered a large tract of wild land in Lincoln Township, at that time known as Brown Township. His educational facilities were very limited, he being obliged to help his father on the farm from his boyhood. Oct. 8, 1850, he was married to Mrs. Mary (Mil by) Hollett, born March 24, 1821, in North Carolina, a daughter of Thomas Milby, and widow to the late Mark Hollett. To Mr. and Mrs. Prebster were born three children - Eliza C, Anderson and Everson. Mr. Prebster has been successful in his agricultural pursuits and n.^w owns a good farm of 150 acres. In politics he is a Republican. In 1873, having for some tinio previous been afflicted with a rheumatic swelling in the knee, he had one of his limbs amputated above the kne ).

Robert Salmon, a native of Ohio, was born in Hamilton County, Feb. 13, 1S18, and was a son of Jeremiah and Nancy Salmon. His father was a native of Pennsylvania, and his mother of Ohio. They had a family of nine children, of whom only four are livint^ -

Robert, Jeremiah, Margaret and Nancj A. Robert Salmon was married in his native county, April 29, ISiO, to Priscilla Pines, who died in 1S67. They had a, family of eleven children seven of whom survive - Hester A., Nancy, 8usan, Clarkson, Benjamin, Jeremiah and George. Mr. Salmon married for his second wife in November, 1S67, Mrs. Eliza A. (Siirber) Prebster, widow of the late Fi-ederick Prebster, of this county. Mr. Salmon is a member of the United Brethren chm'ch, and is a liberal contributor to both church and State enterprises. He resides on his farm in the northern part of this township.

William Todd, one of the representative citizens ot Lincoln Township, is a native of Chillicothe, Ohio, born Oct. 2, IS 16, a son of James and Mary A. Todd. When he was two years of age his parents moved to Switzerland County, Ind., where they both died. Three of their seven children are living - "William, Henry and Rose. Those deceased are - Prilly, Matilda, John and Harriat. AVilliani Todd was reared in Switzerland County. In 1S36 he came to Hendricks Comity, and soon after went to Boone County and entered forty acres of land, subsequently buj'ing forty acres adjoining. He lived in Boone County till the fall of 1S42, when he came to Hendricks County and located in the southern part of Lincoln Township, where he lived nearly forty years. In the fall of 18S0 he retired from the active labors of the farm and moved to Brownsburg, where he has a pleasant home. His farm of 115 acres is under a higii state of cultivation, and the improvements are among the best in Lincoln Townsliip. He has been an energetic, frugal man, and is now reaping the reward of his early years of toil. Mr. Todd was married Sept. 12, 1S39, to Leanna Newham, who was born May 20, 1S20, a daughter of Daniel and Annie Newham, early settlers of Hendricks County. They have one child - Mary A., now Mrs. "William Reuick, of Brownsburg, this county. In politics Mr. Todd is a Democrat.

Lincoln C. Tomlinson, proprietor of the livery, feed and sale stables, Brownsburg, Ind., is a native of Hendricks County, Ind., born March 2S, 1S59, a son of John and Harriett Tomlinson, of Plainfield. He was reared and educated in his native county, and is one" of the prominent young business men of Brownsburg. He was married .lune 29, ISSl, to AUie De Happard, of Brownsburg.

Anderson Turpin, son of Ilobison and Rachel Turpin, \vas born in Scott County, Ky., in October, 1831. In 1S3-1 he came with his parents to Hendricks Cointy, Ind., where he was reared to manhood. Nov. 20, 1S53, he was united in marriage to Miss Louisa E. Rnpard, of Clark County, Ky. Six children have been born to them - Wilkerson, Mary E., William H., Martha E., Rachel A. and Ora A. Mary E. and Ora A. are deceased. Mr. Turpin is the owner of a tine farm of eighty acres and is meeting with success in his agricultural pursuits. He and his wife are earnest members of the Christian church.

Henry Turpin was born Jan. 11, 1835, in Hendricks County, Ind., a son of Kobison and Rachel Turpin, natives of Kentucky. His parents came to this county in lS3i, and settled on a tract of timbered land in the southern part of Lincoln Township, residing here till their death, which oceuiTcd in 1S80. Nine children were born to them, seven of v/hom are living - Anderson, Henry, Harvey, Doctor, Martha, Jacob and Elizabeth M. Henry Tui-pin was reared on a farm. He received a fair education, and for a short time was engaged in teaching school. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company I, Seventh Indiana Infantry, and participated in the battles of second Bull Run, Antietam, Eredcricksburg, and a number of others. He received a wound in the shoulder at the battle of the "Wilderness in May, 186-1:, which disabled him for two months. At the end of that time he again reported for duty and was recruited into Company G-, which, subsequently became consolidated with the Twentieth Indiana Infantjy. He was present at Lee's surrender to General Grant. fie was honorably discharged in June, 186.5, when he returned home, and Nov. 28, of the same year, he was married to Amelia E. Brock, of Decatur County, Ind., formerly of Kentucky. They have three children - Cora B., William C. and George H. Mjr. Turpin ranks among the leading farmers of Lincoln Township,' and is the owner of 200 acres of land. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Preston Tyler, retired farmer, was born in Hendricks County, lud., Sept. 4:, 1833, a son of George and Lncinda Tyler, natives of Kentucky. His father was one of tlie early settlers of Hendricks County, and entered 120 acres of Government land in Lincoln Township, which he made his home till his death. His family consisted of ten children, sevon of whom are living - Lutitia, Susan, Preston, Benjamin F., Charles W., Lydia and Melinda. Kittie, Alfred and George are deceased. Preston Tyler was reared and educated in his native county, and has always made it his home with the exception of ten years spent in Marion Connty,

He lias been a successful ac^riculturist, and owns a fine farm of seventy-one and a half acres, but since ISSO has lived in Brownsburg. He was married Dec. 15, 1S54, to Allie Smith, daughter of Thomas and Susan Smith. They have one son - Willis, born May 26, 1S64. In February, 1865, Mr. Tyler enlisted at Indianapolis in Company I, One Hundred and Forty-eighth Indiana Infantry, and served till the following September. He and his wife are members of the Christian church.

Source changes here: from History of Hendricks County, Indiana, Her People, Industries and Institutions, by Hadley, John Vestal, published 1914; 944 words in this source stream.

Topography

Lincoln township is located on the eastern boundary of Hendricks county, hounded on the north by Brown and Middle townships, on the east by Marion county, on the south by Washington township and on the west by Middle township. The township was organized in 1863, by a division of Brown township into two parts. White Lick, flowing through the western part, hreaks the otherwise almost level ground of the township. The land along this stream valley is rolling and very fertile. The level portion of the area is of rich, alluvial quality in most places, but in spots is composed of clay, which is not highly productive. Plenty of timber once covered the land in this township, but, as in other parts of Hendricks, this has been removed -from the path of cultivation.

Early History

In the atitumn of 1824 James Brown made the first settlement in the territory destined to become Lincoln township. After him and previous to the year 1830 came G. W. Tyler, William Harris, Daniel and Thomas Newman, Daniel Brown, William Merritt, Robison Turpin. Caleb Shirley, John Given, Larkin Dollahite, James Shirley, Thomas Nash, Harvey and T. H. Barlow, the latter settling with their father, Enoch, in 1828, just outside the limits of Brownsbtirg. In 1830 and immediate years Asa McDaniel and sons, Joel Smith and sons and Peter Metsker located in the vicinity of Brownsburg.

The first justice of the peace in Lincoln township was Edward Railshack. Swain's tavern, on the road two miles east of Brownsburg, was one of the noted spots of the early day. This inn was a gathering place for the settlers and a very popular one.

Present Status

Although one of the smallest townships in the county, Lincoln is important. Agriculture is the main industry and in the town of Brownsburg there is strong evidence of civic and commercial pride. Two railroads and one interurban line increase the value of the township land, together with the good roads, the latter an universal feature of the entire county. The country bears the mark of improvement and modern life and is an example of the qualities which have made Indiana one of the first states in the Union. Good farms, schools, homes, roads, telephones, fences, drainage system, are but a few of the factors which make Lincoln township today a first class one.

The town of Brownsburg is located on section ii, in the northern part -of Lincoln township. The town was laid out by William Harris in 1835 and first named Harrisburg, but upon the establishment of the postoffice was changed to the present name. B. M. Logan was the first merchant in the town.

Brownsburg was incorporated in the year 1848, in which year the board of commissioners ordered a chairman, clerk and five trustees elected. The election was hel'd on Jime 24, 1848, and resulted in the choice of the following: Chairman, Henry H. Moore; clerk, T. J. White; trustees, William M. Dinwiddle, T. J. White, Sam Betts, Gaten Menifee, James Davidson. Ten -votes only v/ere cast at this first election. This corporation did not last long, however. In 1870 it was revived and has continued ever since. The present officers are : Trustees, I. N. Mugg, R. A. Fuson and Elza Henson ; clerk, Harry H. Hughes ; treasurer, Harry Johnson ; marshal, John T. Ellis.

The present population of Brownsburg is about nine hundred, the official census in 1910 having been eight hundred seventy-six. The only public utility at present in the town is that of electricity, which service is supplied by the Danville Light, Heat and Power Company. There is a branch factory of the Ladoga Canning Company, a tile factory, grist mill and saw mill in the list of industries. Brownsburg is the only town in Hendricks county at this date which allows licensed sale of liquor.

Brownsburg, both in the business and residential part of town, is neat and attractive. It is a substantially built town. Business conditions are reported as being excellent. Social life also plays a prominent role in the comnnunity.

Brownsburg Lodge No. 241, Free and Accepted Masons, was organized in 1859 with the following members: J. T. Davidson, H. W. White, J. P. Welshans, William Harris, William McDaniel, Joseph HoUoway and S. M. Potts. The lodge has a good membership now and is very prosperous.

Brownsburg Lodge No. 188, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, was organized in 1857. The charter of the lodge was surrendered at the time of the opening of the Civil War, but was renewed in 1866. This lodge has again become inactive.

John A. Hollett Post No. 242, Grand Army of the Republic, was mustered in in the fall of 1883, with eleven members and named after a gallant soldier of the Seventy-ninth Indiana Volunteer Infantry. This post is no longer in active condition.

The Hunter Bank was organized in April, 1907, by M. T. Hunter, C. L. Hunt, Jane Frank, Julia H. Huitt. The bank succeeded the firm of Cope & Hunt, bankers. M. T. Hunter was the first president, and C. L. Hunt the first cashier. These officers are the same now. The first and present capital stock is $10,000; the deposits total $210,000, and the surplus is $3,000. The bank was chartered in April, 1907.

The Brownsburg State Bank was organized in 1908, succeeding the Brownsburg Bank. The first officers were : W. F. Evans, president ; J. L. Marsh, cashier; J. S. Tharp, vice-president; Grandison Eaton, assistant ca,shier. The present officers are : W. F. Evans, president ; I. N. Mugg, cashier ; J. S. Tharp, vice-president, and Ollie Miller, assistant cashier. This bank was chartered on April i, 1908.