Nineveh Township

Nineveh Township

In the spring of 1821, Amos Durbin, who was from Kentucky, settled over on the east side, and thus became the pioneer settler of the township.

In the fall of the same year, Robert Worl, an Ohio man, floated down the Ohio River to some point on the Indiana side, and thence picked his way to the New Purchase, mostly by the Indian trace. Reaching the Blue River settlement, he journeyed on and arrived on the Nineveh in the month of September, and built him a cabin about a mile east of the present town of Williamsburg.

In 1822, eleven new men are known to have come in. On the 15th of March, Joab Woodruff and William Strain came from Ohio, and as they passed through the Blue River settlement, their old neighbor, Ben Crews, picked up and came over with them. Henry Burkhart and George, his brother, from Kentucky, settled in the north side, on the Indian trail, and left the Burkhart name in Burkhart's Creek. Adam Lash is set down as coming that year, and also Daniel and Henry Mussulman, and James Dunn, from Kentucky, and David Trout, from Virginia, and John S. Miller, from North Carolina.

The next year, James and William Gillaspy, William Spears, Curtis Pritchard, Louis Pritchard and Richard Perry, Kentuckians, and Jeremiah Dunham, an Ohioan, and Elijah DeHart, from North Carolina, moved in.

In 1824, Robert Moore and Aaron Dunham, of Ohio, arrived, and Isaac Walker, Perry Baily, George Baily, Joseph Thompson and Robert Forsyth, all from Kentucky. Forsyth was delayed at the driftwood by high water, but when he did cross, Mrs. Nancy Forsyth, his wife, mounted upon the back of a horse, with a bag of meal under her, rode out to their new home, carrying her child, James P., who was two years old, in her arms, and he carried a house-cat in his. It was late when they reached their place, but John S. Miller, Henry Mussulman and some others "whirled in " and helped to clear four acres of corn ground, on which a fair crop of corn was raised, and the bean vines grew so luxuriantly that they mounted into the lower branches of the trees.

The year before that, David Trout was prostrated by a long and severe sickness, but his neighbors did not neglect him. On stated days they met at his place, and his corn was planted and plowed with as much care as any man's in the neighborhood.

In 1825, Daniel Pritchard, John Parkhurst, William Irving and Amos Mitchel, from Kentucky, and Jesse Young, from Ohio, moved in ; and, in the year following, came Thomas Elliott, Prettyman Burton, William Keaton, Clark Tucker, Daniel Hutto, John Hall, John Elliott, all Kentuckians, and Thomas Griffith, Samuel Griffith, Richard Wheeler, James McKane, James and John Wylie, Ohioans.

In 1827, of those who came, John Kindle, Aaron Burget and the Calvins - James, Luke. Thomas and Hiram - Milton Mc- Quade, John Dodd, Robert Works and, as is supposed, George Harger and Jeremiah Hibbs, are all believed to have been from Ohio, and James Mullikin, David Forsyth and James Hughes, from Kentucky. The next year, Joseph Featheringill, Gabriel Givens, Mrs. Sarah Mathes and James White came, followed by Hume Sturgeon, in 1829, and by Walter Black, David Dunham, John Wilks and Aaron Burget, in 1830. Sturgeon was from Kentucky, Mrs. Mathes from Virginia, and the others from Ohio, save Black, whose native place is uncertain.

It is not pretended that these were all the men who moved into Nineveh up to the last year mentioned, nor is it claimed that the true date is given in every instance. The list and dates are only approximately correct.

The first election held in Nineveh Township was at the house of John Henry, in August, 1823, and nineteen votes were polled, but as all the territory comprised in the present townships of Franklin, Union and Hensley, as well as Nineveh proper, comprised Nineveh then, and as some voters came from Sugar Creek to vote, these nineteen votes do not measure the strength of Nineveh at that time. On the 25th of September. 1825. an election was held for the election of a Justice, at the house of Daniel Mussulman, and thirty-nine votes were cast. Of these, David Durbin received twenty, and Jesse Young, nineteen. On the 12th of November following, another election for Justice was held at the same place, when thirty-one votes were cast, Joab Woodruff* receiving twenty-four, and Edward Ware, seven. In 1827, at an election for Justice, Curtis Pritchard and Amos Durbin were voted for, and each received nineteen votes, and thereupon lots were cast, and Pritchard was declared elected. In 1*l'+. the like thing happened in White River Township, Archibald Glenn and Nathaniel Bell each receiving seventeen votes for Justice. Lots were cast and Glenn won.

The early residents of Nineveh were fairly divided between Ohio and Kentucky men. While the Kentuckians constituted a majority in nearly every township, there were but few Ohioans in any one save Nineveh.

Williamsburg, laid out by Daniel Mussulman, was, during its infancy, a rival of Edinburg. Joab Woodruff brought an assortment of dry goods to his house and sold them at an early date in the township's history, and, in 1830, the record of the Board of Justices shows that Daniel Mussulman was licensed to vend foreign and domestic groceries, and that Woodruff held a license to sell at the same time. In 1831, Henry Mussulman procured a license to keep a grocery, and, in the next year, A. H. Scroggins & Co. went into the mercantile business in the place. Glancing along the pages of the old records, the further fact is disclosed that, in 1838, Thomas Mullikin was licensed to vend " domestic and foreign merchandise," and, in the year following, James Mills obtained a permit to sell whisky and dry goods.

The first church organized in the township was at the house of Daniel Mussulman, by Elder Mordecai Cole, a Baptist preacher, and it was named the "Nineveh Church."

It is probable that Aaron Dunham taught the first school, soon after he came, in 1824. In 1826. Benjamin Bailey was teaching in a cabin with an earthen floor, near the Vickerman place.

The first death in the township was a little child of Daniel Mussulman, that was burned to death. Shortly after, James Dunn and Nancy Pritchard both died ; and in twenty-two months after the arrival of Thomas Griffith, on the 21st of October, 1826, he died, leaving a widow with a family of little children. Griffith was the first blacksmith in the township.

About half the original settlers of Nineveh Township were Ohioans ; the others were mainly Kentuckians. Nineveh was the Ohio settlement of the countv.

Source changes here: from History of Johnson County, Indiana : from the Earliest Time to the Present, with Biographical Sketches, Notes, Etc. Together with a Short History of the Northwest, the Indiana Territory, and the State of Indiana, by Banta, D. D. (David Demaree), published 1888; 9,657 words in this source stream.

Nineveh Township

Hodge, Moses J., died in Andersonville prison, July 2, 1864. Hall, William D., died at Lexington, Kv., April 28, 1S64. Hearne, John, died in Andersonville prison, August 17, 1864. Mack, Andrew J., died in prison at Florence, S. C, November 6, 1864.

Harp, William M., died at Louisville, Ky., Februarv 17, 1865. Kiskey, Samuel, died in Andersonville prison, November 17, 1864. Thomas, James A., died at Florence, S. C, October 21, 1864.

One Hundred and Forty-eighth Regiment, Company D. Fulk, John A., died at Nashville, Tenn., March 23, 1865. Stafford, Lorenzo D., died at Pulaski, Tenn., April 1, 1865.

Benjamin F. Barnett, a farmer of Nineveh Township, was born July 8, 1842, son of Ambrose and Sopronia (Riggs) Barnett. The father was a native of Bourbon County, Ky., born July 24, 1809, of Scotch descent, and died May 20, 1885. ' The mother is a native of New York, of Scotch descent, born January 23, 181 7, and is now living. Our subject was reared on a farm in Johnson County until eleven years old. He then went to Hamilton County,

Ind., where he remained until twenty-one years of age; then to Johnson County, where he now lives. He received a good common school education, and at the age of twenty-one years he began life for himself by teaching in the country schools. He taught four winter terms. He then gave up teaching and began farming, which he has continued since. August 18, 1864, he was united in marriage with Mary E. Middleton, a daughter of Arthur and Eliza (Smith) Middleton, both natives of Ireland. To this union the following children have been born: Ida E., July 2, 1865; Cora F., August 31, 1866; Dilla A., March 28, 1868; Maggie J., December 16, 1869; Deochia A., September 12, 1871; Wilson H., June 2, 1873; Myrtle V., March 31, 1875; Daisy E., July 30, 1877; Mamia S., June 6, 1879; Catharine M., May n, 1881, and Thomas F., November 10, 1S83. The mother of these children was born October 4, 1842. He and wife are members of the Christian Church. He was a Granger during the continuance of the order. In politics, he was a democrat until 1876, when he became identified with the greenback party. He now owns 115 acres of fine land in Nineveh Township, which is well improved.

George Botsford, a farmer of Nineveh Township, was born April 27, 1853, son of George and Louisa (Parmerlee) Botsford. The father was a native of Connecticut, and was born September 8, 1804. He departed this life November 9, 1858. The mother, also a native of Connecticut, was born December 25, 1810, and died February 8, 1885. Our subject was reared on a farm in Johnson County. He received a good common school education, and at the age of twenty-one years he began the struggle of life for himself. He first accepted a clerkship with Dunlap Brothers at Franklin, where he remained a short time, and then began the carriage-making trade in 1874, serving an apprenticeship with A. N. Carnine, where he remained three years, with the exception of one winter, when he returned home to attend school. He then accepted a position as deputy sheriff, under James H. Pudney, where he remained four years. He then went to Bloomington, this state, where he conducted a photograph gallery for about six months, after which he traveled in the south and west about six months. He then returned to his home in Johnson County, where he was united in marriage with Gertrude Redman, on December 29, 1880. She is a daughter of George L. and Lina (Richardson) Redman, both natives of Kentucky, of Dutch descent. This union was blessed with the following children : Leonard J. (deceased), born October 12, 1881; Eliza, August 10, 1883; Elsa, February 22, 1888. The mother of these children was born June 25, 1859. She is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. In politics, Mr.

Botsford is a democrat, casting his first presidential vote for Tilden and Hendricks. He now owns a nice home of eighty-eight acres, being the old homestead farm of his father. He and family are among the first families of Nineveh Township.

Scott L. Bridges is a farmer and stock-raiser of Nineveh Township, born March 5, 1854, a son °^ George T. and Lydia A. (Pefly) Bridges, whose biographies appear elsewhere in this work. Our subject was reared on his' father's farm in Franklin Township, and received a common school education. His vocation has always been farming. September 23, 1876, he was united in marriage with Mary E. Kennedy, a daughter of John and Martha (McQuinn) Kennedy; the father a native of this state, of English descent. His parents went from Virginia to Tennessee, and from there to Indiana about the beginning of the eighteenth century; the mother was a native of Kentucky, of English descent. This union was blessed witn the following children: William T., Evert L., George R. and Ida May. The mother of these children was born December 22, 1856. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. lodge, No. 181, at Trafalgar, Ind. He and wife are members of the Christian Church. In politics, he is a democrat, casting his first presidential ballot for Tilden and Hendricks. He now owns a beautiful farm of 160 acres near Trafalgar. He and William A. Bridges own a feed mill wrhich they now have in operation at the latter's place.

Daniel Britton, one of the successful business men of Williamsburg, was born in Greene County, Tenn., January 7, 183*3, son of Thomas and Malinda (Cradick) Britton, both natives of Tennessee; the father was born about 1809, of Scotch-Irish descent, and died about 1879; the mother was born about 181 1, and died about 1840. Our subject's boyhood and youth were spent on a farm in Tennessee. He received a good common school education, and served an apprenticeship at the blacksmith's trade, which vocation he followed for a number of years. At the age of twenty-one years he began life for himself, his occupation being blacksmithing. May 25, 1853, he married Elizabeth K. Murphey, a daughter of William and Jemima (Stuart) Murphey, both born in Virginia; the father was of Irish, and the mother of English, descent. This union was blessed with the following children: William F., born February 14, 1854; Mary J., November, 1855; Emma M., May 8, 1857, deceased; Thomas D., October 27, 1861. William was united in marriage, with Mattie McCaffray, October 24, 1877. Mary J., was married to William Wheatley, May 14, 1873. Thomas D. was united in marriage with " China" Keaton, September 6, 1881. The mother was born May 25, 1834. In the late war our subject, lived in the south, and took sides with the Confederate States; he enlisted in Company A, Sixty -first Tennessee, and entered the war as a private, but soon became a lieutenant, which office he held until he surrendered with Gen. Joe E. Johnston, at Abbington, Va., and was paroled at Louisa, Ky., in 1865. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics, he is a democrat, casting his first presidential vote for Buchanan. He was tax collector in Tennessee for four years, and after he came to Indiana in 1865, he was elected justice of the peace by a large majority, having received a large republican vote. He owns fifty-four acres of good land, and six town lots in Williamsburg, which are all improved except one. He is recognized as one of the live and w^de-awake business men of the town, having a halfinterest in a saw-mill, half-interest in tile factory, at Williamsburg, and a half-inte^st in a tile factory at Trafalgar. He is now postmaster at^Williamsburg, known as Nineveh postorfice, to which he was appointed by President Cleveland, April 1, 1888. He is a Royal Arch Mason.

Andrew J. Burkhart, a farmer of Nineveh Township, was born in Nineveh Township, October 12, 1828, a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Knapp) Burkhart. The former was born about 1791, and died 1853; the latter was born in 1801, and is still living. Our subject's boyhood was spent on a farm in Nineveh Township. He received a common school education, and began life for himself at the age of twenty-five years, but had the responsibility of his mother's family after he was ten vears of age. His occupation has always been that of a farmer. December 23, 1853, he was united in marriage to Ursula Stevens, a daughter of David and Eliza (Martin) Stevens, both natives of Kentucky. To this union the following children were born : Millard, Mary C, Lottie and Elizabeth. The mother of these children was born in 1835. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics, he is a democrat, casting his first presidential vote for Pierce. He now owns 100 acres of fine farming land in Nineveh Township.

Prettyman M. Burton, deceased, was one of the pioneer settlers of Nineveh Township, born November 30, 1790, and departed this life April 14, 1886. He was reared on a farm in Tennessee, where he received a common school education. At the age of twenty years he began life for himself as a farmer. He was a soldier in the War of 181 2. He left to his widow fifty acres of fine land. She also draws a pension of $12 per month. He was a member of the old-school Baptist Church. His wife, Mrs. Pauline Bills, is a daughter of William and Sarah (Tucker) Woodruff, the father a native of Ohio, of Dutch-English descent, born in 1779, and died in 1874; lne mother of Scotch-Irish descent, born 1794, an.i died in 1887. Mrs. Burton, the wife of our subject, was born January i, 1825. Her first husband was Thomas T. Bills, son of Thomas and D. A. Bills, both natives of New Jersey. Mr. Bills was a soldier in the late war. lie enlisted in Company II, Fifty-fourth Regiment Indiana Volunteers. He served about sixmonths, when he was taken sick, and died on his wax- home. This union was blessed with the following children: William T. Bills, born July 12, 1848; Abraham, May 2, 1850: joab, Mav 8, 1852; Absalom, February 1, 1855; Sarah Jane, July 4, 1857; Harriet Ann, September 10, 1859. This husband left to his wife about twenty acres of land. She is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. She is well respected by all who know her.

John W. Calvin, a young man of Nineveh Township, was born in Brown County, Ind., March 16, 1852, son of John and Sarah (Conn) Calvin. His father was born in Brown County, Ohio, February 19, 1823, of Irish descent, and died in Brown County, Ind., October 30, 1870. He served through the Mexican War, and again in the War of the Rebellion. He was first lieutenant in the Eighty-second Regiment Indiana Volunteers, and fought in the battles of Missionary Ridge, Lookout Mountain, Chickamauga and Stone River. After two years' active service, during which time he was several times sent home as recruiting officer, he resigned on account of ill-health, and returned home. He was a member of the Masonic order, and a respected citizen. Mrs. Calvin was born October 15, 1827, and died July 9, 1865. Our subject was reared on a farm, and was left an orphan at the age of seventeen. After this he worked as a farm laborer, and acquired a good education. February 2, 1881, he was married to Miss Alice M. Mullendore. The issue of this marriage was as follows: Omer Thomas, born December 11, 1882; Ida Blanche, January 9, 1883. The mother of these children was born August 1, i860. She was the daughter of Lewis and Harriet Mullendore, and died March 9, 1884. She was a lady posessing a most beautiful Christian character, embracing Christianity early in life. She was a dutiful wife, an affectionate mother, respected in society, and loved by all who knew her. She was a member of the Christian Church, at Nineveh. Mr. Calvin is a member of the Masonic order, and in politics is a democrat, and has twice been elected trustee of Nineveh Township. December 23, 1887, he was again married to Miss Mollie Hungate. The issue of this marriage has been one child: George Harlan. The mother of this child was born March 1, 1859, and is a daughter of Turner B. and Harriet F. (Whitenack) Hungate. The father was born in Mercer County, Ky., July 28, 1827, of English descent; and the mother was a native of Ireland, and was born October 1, 1 83 1. Mrs. Calvin is an educated and cultivated lady, and was a prominent teacher in the public schools of this county. She and her husband are members of the Christian Church, at Nineveh. Beginning as a farm laborer at the age of seventeen, he has made a record worthy of any man. A man of tireless energy and ceaseless industry, he has accumulated a handsome competence, and is one of the rising young men of the count}^. He has a splendid farm of 120 acres, one and one-half miles east of Nineveh, upon which he resides, and to its cultivation he devotes his entire attention.

Green Berry Cobb, a farmer, was born January 5, 1848, in Bartholomew County, Ind., and is a son of Wesley and Mar)' Jane (Walker) Cobb. The father was born in Madison County, Ky., November 16, 1824, of English descent, and died in Johnson County, Ind., August 20, 1S83. He was a member of the Masonic order, and respected by all who knew him. The mother was born in Jennings County, Ind., of English descent, June 7, 1825, and died November 26, 1871. Our subject was reared on his father's farm in Bartholomew County, where he received a common school education, and began life as a farmer at the age of twenty-one years. August 12, 1869, he married Miss Leah Frances Gillespy. The children of this marriage were born as follows: Dillard, June 10, 1870; Eddie, January 14, 1873. The mother of these children was born December 22, 185 1, a daughter of William Edy and Elizabeth Ann (White) Gillespy. The father was a native of Kentucky, and was born March 5, 1825, of Irish descent. The mother was a native of Indiana, and was born November 19, 1828. Mr. and Mrs. Cobb are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and are highly respected in society. Politically, Mr. Cobb is a democrat, casting his first presidential vote for Seymour and Blair. He has an excellent stock farm near Williamsburg, well stocked with animals of good breeding. Starting without a dollar of his own, he has gradually risen to a degree of independence creditable to any man. He is now living comfortably in Williamsburg, where he owns valuable property.

Joseph M. Drybread, a native of Indiana, and one of the successful farmers of Nineveh Township, was born March 17, 1839. He is the son of William and Nancy (Charlton) Drybread. The father was born October 21, 1799, of German descent. Our subject's grandfather, George Drybread, was of German descent, a native of Pennsylvania. In 1785, he removed from Pennsylvania to Kentucky, where he remained until 179S, then to Indiana territory, and settled in what is now Dearborn County, where our subject's father was born. The mother was a native of Ohio, born October 10, 1S08, and is a daughter of James and Mary (Passomore) Charlton. Our subject's parents were married in Hamilton County, Ohio, December 7, 1826. The father became a member of the Christian Church about six years before his death, which occurred April 29, 1885. The mother is still living on the old homestead in Bartholomew County. Our subject received a good common school education in the old log school-house. His youthful days were spent on his father's farm in his mother state. His occupation has always been that of a farmer, and in connection with farming, he has given a great deal of his time to stock-raising and grazing. In August, 1862, he answered his country's call, and enlisted in Company I, Seventy-ninth Indiana Volunteer Regiment, and was with his regiment in all its battles until after the battle of Lookout Mountain, where he was taken sick and had to return home, where he remained. October 17, 1866, he was united in marriage with Rebecca Wheatley, a daughter of Ezekiel and Mary (Cone) Wheatley; the father a native of Maryland, and the mother a native of Ohio. This union was blessed with two children : May, born August 22, 1867, and William N., July 27, 1870.* The mother of these children was born June 1, 1850. He and his wife and daughter are members of the Christian Church. In politics, he is an ardent republican, casting his first presidential vote for Lincoln. He now owns 800 acres of fine land which is under a good state of cultivation.

Lamson B. Graves, a farmer and stock-raiser of Nineveh Township, was born October 31, 1847, and is a son of Hiram and Ann (Botsford) Graves. The father was a native of New York, who was born December 13, 1809, of English descent, and died November 3, 1S55; the mother is a native of Connecticut, and was born December 25, 1812, also of English descent. Our subject was reared on a farm in Nineveh Township, Johnson County. He received a common school education, and at the age of twenty-one he began life for himself as a farmer. On September 24, 1868, he was united in marriage with Mary Ryan, a daughter of. Patrick and Sarah (Allen) Ryan, both natives of Ireland. This union was blessed with the following children: Anna, born November 2, 1869; Nellie, June 18, 1871, and Katie, November 23, 1874. The mother of these children was born May 2, 1848. She and the two eldest daughters are members of the Christian Church. In politics, Mr. Graves was a republican until the organization of

Abner Hardin, a farmer of Nineveh, was born January 15, 1842, in Oldham County, Ky., son of Henry and Emma (Ritter) Hardin. The father was a native of Kentucky, born February 14, 1816, and departed this life April 20, 1844; the mother was a native of Kentucky, born July 18, 1817, and departed this life July 7, 1855, and was of German descent. Our subject came to Indiana with his mother in 1852. He received a good common school education, and after the war, he attended school at Hopewell six months. At the age of thirteen years he began life for himself as a farmer, and at the age of nineteen years he enlisted in Company F, Seventh Indiana Volunteers. At Port Republic, he was wounded in the shoulder and taken prisoner. He was in the hospital at Charlottsville, Va., about two months, then taken to Belle Isle, where he remained about one month, and was paroled, and then went back to his company, and served until September, 1864, when he was discharged at Indianapolis. He was with his company in all its battles after he returned to it after being a prisoner. April 6, 1865, he was united in marriage with Elizabeth Keaton, a daughter of William and Sarah (Johnson) Keaton, both natives of Virginia. This union was blessed with the following children: John H., born March 27, 1866: Benjamin F., June 29, 1868; Emma B., October 27, 1870; Laura B., March 28, 1873; Lizzie Grace, December 27, 1882, and Nellie C, May 23, 1885. The mother of these children was born August 1, 1840. She is a member of the Christian Church. In politics, he was formerly a republican, until the birth of the greenback party, with which he was identified about four years; since that time he has been a republican. He served as trustee of his township four years, thus demonstrating the confidence and esteem in which he is held by the citizens of his township. He now owns 333 acres of fine farming land in Nineveh Township, which is in a good state of cultivation. In connection with farming, he has been giving considerable attention to the breeding of short-horn cattle, and for about ten years he bought and shipped stock. He contracted rheumatism in the war, and for about two years has been unable to follow his chosen vocation.

Oliver P. Hibbs, a prosperous farmer and 'stock-raiser of Nineveh Township, was born March 3, 1833, a son of Jeremiah and Hannah (Burgett) Hibbs. The father was a native of Kentucky, born in 1800, of Scotch-Irish descent, and the mother of Ohio, of German descent, born January 28, 1802. She came to Indiana with her first husband, Thomas Griffith, about 1825, ar>d about twenty- two months later, her husband died. April 17, 1830, she was united in marriage with Jeremiah Hibbs, who departed this life about 1849. Our SUDJect was reared on a farm in Nineveh Township. He received a common school education, and began the battle of life for himself at the age of twenty-one years, as a farmer, which occupation he has continued through life. December 29, 1S56, he was united in marriage with Clara Botsford, a daughter of George and Louisa (Parmerlee) Botsford. The father and mother were natives of Connecticut. The father was born about 1806, and died in 1857; and the mother was born in 1810, and died in 1885. This union was blessed with the following children: Edith, born September 14, 1861; Lina, December 4, 1863; Nettie, November 13, 1865; Mary, September 22, 1867, deceased; George, February 11, 1870, and Laura, December 4, 1879. The mother of these children was born March 31, 1837. He was a Granger during the continuance of that order. In politics, he was formerly a democrat, but since the organization of the union labor party, he has been identified with that party. He now owns a fine farm of 160 acres, in Nineveh Township. He and wife are members of the Christian Church.

William Holtz, a carpenter, contractor and builder, of Williamsburgh, was born May 10, 1837, a son of Jacob and Sarah (Cole) Holtz. The father was a native of Pennsylvania, of German-descent, born in 1815. The mother was of German descent, a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1820. The father emigrated with his family to Ohio in 1848, where he remained about twelve years, thence to Brown County, Ind., in 1859, where he is now living. The mother died September 20, 1858. To our subject's father and mother, the following children were born: William, our subject, May 10, 1837; Sarah E., December 10, 1839, deceased; Margaret, February 20, 1S40; Lavina S., October 2, 1842, deceased; Jacob D., December 25, 1846, deceased; Emanuel, February 19, 1847; Mariah, March 31, 1849; Charity E., April 2, 1850; Mary E.. March 4, 1853; Ingaba J., July 8, 1855; Catharine E., March 24, 1858. The mother of these children died September 20, 1858. Our subject's boyhood and youth were spent in Pennsylvania and Ohio, on a farm, until the age of thirteen years, when he entered an apprenticeship at the carpenter's trade; served his time in Ohio and came to Indiana, June 26, i860, and settled in Brown County, where he worked at his trade until August, 1862, when he answered his country's call, and enlisted in Company D, Eightysecond Indiana Volunteers, under Capt. W. W. Browning; he served three years, and participated in all the battles with his company, among which may be named Chickamauga, Mission Ridge, Perryville, Stone River, and man}- others; was discharged at Nashville, Tenn., 1865. He received a common school education, and at the age of twenty-one years he began life for himself, following his trade, in connection with which trade he gave some of his attention to farming. August 18, 1862, he was united in marriage with Mai Victoria Wilson, a daughter of Kalib and Catharine (Johnson, nee CHft) Wilson; they were both of German descent; the father a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1S15, the mother born in Philadelphia, Penn., in 1818, and died in 1881. This union was blessed with the following children: Andrew E., born June 23, 1867; John B., July 18, 1869. The mother of these children was born August 7, 1847, a native of Belmont County, Ohio. He and wife are members of the Christian Church, also their children. He is a member of the Masonic order. In politics, he was formerly a democrat, casting his first presidential vote for Buchanan, but since the war has been identified with the republican party. He now owns twenty-two acres of land joining Williamsburgh, which is in a high state of cultivation.

Joseph Hughes, one of the live business men of Williamsburgh, was born October 28, 1S50, and was a son of George N. and Rachel (Griffith) Hughes. The father was a native of Kentucky, born December 8, 1823, and came with his parents at an early date, to Johnson County, and settled in Nineveh Township, where he now lives. The mother was a native of Ohio; she was born on April 6, 1824, and came with her parents to Johnson County while yet a child. Our subject was reared on a farm in Johnson County. He received a good common school education, and at the age of twenty-one years he began life for himself as a farmer, which he continued fifteen years, and on Januaiy 1, 1886, he opened up a drug store in Williamsburgh, which business he still continues. On November 9, 1876, he was united in marriage to Susan J. Prichard, a daughter of C. D. and Cassa (Featherngill) Prichard. Susan J. was born September 6, 1S56. In polities, he is an ardent democrat, and wras the nominee for trustee of his township, at the April election of 1888, being elected by a majority of thirtyfour votes. He is recognized as one of the leaders of his party in his township.

Tunstall Hunt, a pioneer and farmer of Nineveh Township, was born February 18, 181 8; he is the son of Simeon and Elizabeth (Rivers) Hunt. The father was a native of Virginia. He emigrated to Green County, Ky., where he lived until 1825, when he came to Johnson County, Ind., where his death occurred in 1848. The mother was a native of Kentucky, and departed this life aoout

1822. Our subject was reared on a farm in Johnson County. He received a very limited education in the old pioneer log schoolhouse. At the age of ten years, he was thrown on his own resources, and began the struggle of life as a farm hand. December 25, 1845, he was united in marriage with Sarah Ann T. Wilson, daughter of John and Rebecca (Bramwell) Wilson. This union was blessed with the following children: William J., born April 7, 1847; deceased; James WT., June 27,1849. The mother of these children was born August 7, 1822, and departed this life March 14, 1856. She was a good Christian woman, and was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. August 27, 1857, he was united in a second marriage with Matilda Parkhurst, a daughter of John and Abigail (Sellers) Parkhurst; they were both natives of Shelby County, Ky. This wife was born April 21, 1819. He has been a member of the Masonic order for over twenty years. . His wife is a member of the old-school Baptish Church. In politics, he is a very ardent democrat, having cast his first vote for Van Buren, and has always been identified' with that party. He now owns 240 acres of fine land in Nineveh Township. He has been a farmer all his life, and for about twenty years past, he has given a great deal of his attention to stock-raising.

Milburn Jacobs, a farmer of Nineveh Township, was born January 5, 1822, son of James and Mary (Watts) Jacobs, both natives of Kentucky, of German descent. Our subject came with his parents to Johnson County when a small boy. He received a very limited education in the old pioneer log school-house, and served an apprenticeship at the shoemaker's trade. At the age of twentyone years he began the battle of life for himself as a farm hand at $10 per month. March 19, 1846, he was united in marriage with Martha Utterback, a daughter of William and Mary (Parker) Utterback, both natives of Kentucky. To this marriage the followchildren were born: Mary E., January 24, 1847; Levina J., November 17, 1848; Jackson, October 27, 1850; James, May 18, 1852, and Iverson, May 19, i860. The mother of these children was born January 28, 1825, and departed this life in March, 1866. In 1868, he was united in a second marriage with Catharine Marimon. To this union one child was born, Isaac, June 9, 1869. The mother of this boy died June 16, 1869. She was a member of the old-school Baptist Church. He was married November 4, 1870, to Mrs. Susannah Rush, a daughter of William L. and Catharine (Kegley) Woolford, both natives of Virginia, of German descent. This union was blessed with the following children: Milburn A., born August 11, 1S72; Harriet F., November 12, 1874. The mother of these children was born September 23,

1831. He and wife are members of the Regular Baptist Church. In politics, he has always been a democrat, casting his first presidential vote for Tyler. He now owns fifty acres of land in Nineveh Township.

Nathaniel N. Maris, a farmer and stock-raiser of Nineveh Township, was born in Belmont County, Ohio, October 9, 1827, son of Curtis and Mary (Newnan) Maris. The father was a native of Chester County, Penn., born in 1808, and was of English descent. He went to Ohio with his parents at the age of five years, and in 1853, came to Indiana where he remained until his death, which occurred in 1858. The mother was a native of Delaware, and came with her parents to Ohio when but ten years old, where, in after years she was married, and came here with her husband, where she remained until her death in 1883. Our subject was reared on a farm in Belmont County, Ohio, where he received a common school education, and at the age of seventeen years he began life for himself. He first served an apprenticeship at the gunsmith's trade, which he continued for many years. He came to Indiana when twenty-three years of age, and worked at his trade a few years, and then settled on 160 acres of land and cleared it up and cultivated it. During the late war he was provost-marshal for his congressional district, and rendered some very valuable service to the government. Near the close of the war, in Brown Count}^ there had accumulated a number of deserters and hard characters, who had been indicted by the United States grand jury, and the United States marshal refusing to sign the warrants, the same were then placed in the hands of Mr. Maris to be served. He accepted the responsibility, and commenced his campaign at once. His first duty was to arrest three persons in Brown Count)', who, by force, had taken a deserter away from two Union soldiers. After a perilous ride after night in a snow storm, until about 11 130 o'clock, he captured the ring leader of the trio, and two days later he captured his game in a log hut. He then proceeded to Indianapolis, where the three culprits were arraigned, and entered a plea of guilty and were fined $100 each, and costs. June 6, 1S54, he was united in marriage with Mary Richardson, a daughter of Dudley and Elizabeth (Brent) Richardson. The father, a native of Kentucky, born in 1799, came to Indiana about 1836, where he Remained until his death March 5, 1852. The mother was also a native of Kentucky, born 1803, came with her husband to Indiana in 1836, and died March 27, 1857. This union was blessed with one child: Tamar M., born March 19, 1855, who was united in marrjage with James D. Lacy in 1873. The mother of this child was born February 26, 1834. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a member of the Masonic order, and in politics is an ardent republican, casting his first presidential vote for Zachariah Taylor. At one time, while living in Brown County in 1S5S, he was nominated for the office of county commissioner; he ran against a majority of 500 or 600, and was elected by' a majority of 278 votes. He now owns 350 acres of fine farming land, besides an elegant home in Williamsburgh. For about eleven years he has been giving a great deal of attention to the raising of line stock, making a specialty of short-horn cattle, clydesdale and English draft horses, Among them may be named Lord Clyde, an imported horse from Scotland, which, it may be said, has credit that he never failed to get the first premium at all the county fairs where he has been shown. For live years past, he has been devoting considerable of his time to the culture of German carp fish. He has three nice fish ponds in his yard and an abundance of fish.

Jeptha McQuinn, a highly respected citizen of Nineveh Township, was born in Oldham County, Ky.,\August 10, 1S18, a son of Ezekiel and Elizabeth ( Coons) McQuinn. Our subject remained with his parents on their farm in Kentucky, until sixteen years of age. In the spring of the year 1834, he and a brother came to Indiana, their parents coming in the autumn of the same year. At the age of twenty-one he began life for himself, having received a limited education in the primitive schools of those days. He was married at the age of twenty-two years, to Miss Louisiana Chapel. The issue of this marriage was as follows: John Thomas, born February 18, 1S41; Mary Elizabeth, November 8, 1844; Rebecca Angeline, November 12, 1848. The mother of these children was the daughter of James T. and Mary (Leach) Chapel. In politics, Mr. McQuinn is a democrat, casting his first presidential vote for Harrison and Tyler. On November 28, 1849, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Musgroves. The issue of this marriage is as follows: William Nathan, born September 23, 1S52; Newton Albert, September 15, i860, deceased; Ira Willet, April 20, 1863; Jeptha Levi, January 10, i867,*and Silas Henry, June 26, 1869. The mother of these children was- born July 15, 183 1, daughter of Nathan and Rebecca Musgroves. The father was a native of Kentucky, and the mother a native of Virginia. He resides on his farm in Nineveh Township, which consists of 140 acres of good land.

William Nathan McQuinn, a farmer, was born in Johnson County, Ind., September 23, 1852. He is the son of Jeptha and Elizabeth (Musgroves) McQuinn. The father was born in Oldham County, Ky., August 10, 1818, of Irish descent. The mother was born in Indiana, July 15, 1831, of English descent. Our subject was reared on his father's farm, remaining with his parents until he was twenty-two years of age, receiving a good common school education during this time. At the age of twenty-two, he began life for himself as a farmar, an occupation he still continues. On July 30, 1874, he was married to Miss Rebecca Alice Mitchell, a daughter of Abraham and Euseba (Forsythe) Mitchell, born July 27, 1857. Her father was born in Owen County, Ind., August 8, 1830, and died November 7, 1868. Her mother was born in Johnson County, Ind., September 10, 1840, and died July 27, 1887. Mr. and Mrs. McQuinn were members in high standing, of the Christian Church, at Pisgah. In politics, he is a democrat, casting his first presidential vote for Tilden and Hendricks. He resides upon his farm in Nineveh Township, to the cultivation of which he gives his attention. July 14, 1887, Mr. McQuinn had the misfortune to lose his devoted companion. She was an estimable lady, loved by all, of high Christian character, and an affectionate wife. She died in full faith of redemption through the blood of the blessed Savior.

Thomas William McQuinn, an enterprising farmer of Nineveh Township, was born April 2, 1853. He is the son of Martin and Abigail (Logan) McQuinn; the father, a native of Kentucky, was born in 181 5, of Irish descent; the mother, a native of Indiana, is of English descent. Our subject lived with his parents on the farm, receiving a good common school education, until he reached his majority, when he began life for himself at farming, an occupation he yet continues. March 8, 1870, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Catharine Mullendore. The issue of this marriage has been as follows: Everet M., born January 5, 1875; Bertha Abigail, December 15, 1876; Harriet Mabel, February 26, 1879; Earnest Raymond, October 25, 1881, and Lewis, December 24, 1885. The mother of these children was born December 31, 1S52. She is the daughter of Lewis and Harriet (Records) Mullendore. Mr. and Mrs. - McQuinn are exemplarv members of the Christian Church at Union, are highly respected in society, and held in high esteem by their neighbors. In politics, Mr. McQuinn is a democrat, casting his first presidential vote for Tilden and Hendricks. He resides upon his farm of 190 acres of fine land, four miles south of Franklin, the cultivation of which occupies his entire attention.

Benjamin W. Mitchell, a farmer and stock-raiser of Nineveh Township, was born August 25, 1833, and is the son of Aaron and Hannah (Kephart) Mitchell. The father was a native of Kentucky, of Irish descent; the mother was also born in Kentucky, of Dutch descent. Our subject was born in Johnson County, and at the age of three years went to Owen County with his parents, where he remained on the farm until seventeen years old, when he came back to Johnson County, where he has since resided. He received a common school education. At the age of seventeen years he started in life for himself, as a farmer, which vocation he has continued through life. August 7, 1856, he was united in marriage to Rosannah Holeman, daughter of Truman and Elizabeth (Parkist) Holeman; the father a native of Jefferson County, Ind., of English descent, and the mother a native of Tennessee, a Yankee. The union was blesssed with the following children : William A., born August 15, 1857; Aaron T., September 13, 1858; Clara Belle, January 27, i860, deceased; Thursa E., March 30, 1866; Archy B., born February 2, 1872; Mary Susan, October 6, 1873; George M., April 14, 1875; John D., April 7, 1877 ; Miles E., October 19, 1879. The mother of these children was born March 16, 1838. William A. was united in marriage with Lewetta Dunham, in 1879. Aaron T. was united in marriage with Minerva Richardson, in 1 881. Clara Belle was united in marriage with Benjamin F. Rush, in 1881. Thursa E. married Willis McMurry, in 1886. In politics, Mr. Mitchell has always been a staunch republican, casting his first presidential vote for Fremont. He now owns 125 acres of fine farming land in Nineveh Township. Although he commenced without anything, he can now look back to the starting point with pleasure of knowing that he has made a success of life. He and wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church, and stand among the first families of his township.

" Daniel W. Mullendore, one of the leading farmers of Nineveh Township, was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, September 17th, 1826, son of Jacob and Kate (Werts) Mullendore, and is the third in a family of eleven children. His father was born in Virginia in 1792, and died in Shelby County, Ind, in 1873. His mother was a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1804, and died in 1879. The family came to Indiana in 1832 and located in Shelbv County, Ind. The immediate subject of this biography was educated at the early subscription schools, and in 1849 began farming in Shelby County, Ind., and in 1859, came to Johnson County, and settled where he now resides. He owns a valuable farm, comprising 350 . acres of fertile land. Mr. Mullendore was married in 1849 to Miss Elizabeth Oaks, a native of Bartholomew County, Ind., born December 25, 1S28. They have eight children: Sarah K., born in 1851; Jacob, 1853; Andrew, 1855; Kate, 1858; Lewis M., 1861; Olis, 1863'; Edgar V., 1865, and John T., 1867. He is a republican, and he and wife are members of the Christian Church.

Township, and a prominent man of the county, is the son of Jacob and Catharine Mullendore, and was born in Montgomery Count)-, Ohio, July 30, 1823. His father was a native of Virginia, who came to Ohio at an early day. He learned the tanner's trade, and, after living in Ohio until 1833, came to Shelby County, Ind., intending to continue in the tanning business, but engaged in farming instead, and a few years later engaged in tanning in a small way. Lewis remained with his father during this time, and at the age of twenty-one, commenced to learn the tanner's trade. He commenced buying calf-skins, which his father allowed him to tan on shares, and at the end of eleven years he had accumulated about $12,000. His first land purchase was forty acres in Shelby County. He afterward bought 253 acres where he now resides, and has since made other purchases. In 1841, he was married to Harriet E. Records, daughter of William P. and Elsie Records, and to this union the following children have been born: Huldah A., Elizabeth C, Henry C, deceased, Joseph H., William, Jacob, deceased, Alice, Elsie C, Lavinia D., *Franklin R., irifant, deceased, Jane C, and Ollie. At present Mr. Mullendore resides on his farm, which consists of 1,000 acres of well-improved land, provided with all improvements, well fenced and stocked, and contains a fine residence, and is situated four miles from Franklin. He is an honest and upright man, and, with his wife, belongs to the Christian Church. Politically, he is a republican. His father died in 1872, and his mother in 1876. The latter was a member of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Mullendore's position to-day is a fitting reward for the work and toil of a life-time, and shows to all beginners on life's journey how much more honorable is a life of industry and honesty. No better example of the truly self-made man will be found in central Indiana.

Robert C. Parkhurst, a pioneer settler of Nineveh Township, was born in Tennessee, January 16, 1820, and is the son of Daniel and Celie (Stevens) Parkhurst; the father a native of Kentucky, of English descent, and the mother a native of North Carolina, also of English descent. Our subject's boyhood and youth were spent on his father's farm in Tennessee, until he was seventeen years old, when he came to Indiana with his parents in 1836, and settled in Johnson County, and began clearing up a farm. He received a limited common school education, attending school in the winter only. At the age of nineteen years he began the struggle of life for himself as a farmer, which he continued in Johnson County until 1839, when he went to Illinois, where he settled on a farm, and remained until 1848. He then returned to 'Johnson County, where he now resides. June 9, 1839, he was united in marriage with Sarah Parkhurst, a daughter of Elijah and Susan (Johnson) Parkhurst. This union was blessed with the following children: Daniel B., born August 15, 1840; Susannah, January 8, 1842, deceased; Celie A., November 12, 1843; Robert M., October 9, 1845; Nancy C, October 13, 1847, deceased; Rosanah, August 22, 1849; Elijah K., April 17, 1850; Job, December 28, 1852, and John, November 29, 1855. The mother of these children was born April 30, 1822. She was a member of the Regular Baptist Church. January 9, 1881, he was united in marriage with Catharine Monroe, a daughter of John and Sarah (Orr) Monroe. The father and mother were both natives of Kentucky, of Scotch descent. He and wife are members of the Regular Baptist Church. He was a member of the Grange during the lifetime of that order, and in poliacs he has been a life long democrat. He now owns sixtyacres of fine land in Nineveh Township.

Achilles V. Pendleton, a prominent, industrious and successful farmer and stock-raiser of Nineveh Township, was born June 5, 1833, son of David B. and Catharine (Smith) Pendleton; the father was a native of Virginia, of Irish descent, born 1795/ He emigrated to Jefferson County, Ky., with his parents, when a child, where he remained until 181 5, when he went to Newport, Ky., to learn the trade of blacksmithing: during this year assisted in shoeing horses for the American forces. In 1S16, he went to Vernon, Jennings Co., Ind., where he worked at his trade, and in connection with his trade he also worked some at bricklaying, helping to build the first court house erected in Jennings County. In 1S20, he was united in marriage with Catharine Smith, of Sullivan County, Ind. This union was blessed with the following children : Martha, deceased, Julia, deceased, Samuel, Sarah, deceased, William, deceased, Achilles V., James, deceased, Mary, deceased, infant, deceased, Rufus, Jane, deceased, George, deceased; and Alzora. The mother of these children had all the characteristics to make a good wife and a home happy, being a good Christian woman, and at the time of her death, which occurred August 6, 1868, was a great loss to the church and the community. The father was a man of strict integrity, possessing the entire confidence of all who knew him. He was a member of the Baptist Church, and in politics, was an old Jacksonian democrat. His death occurred March 26, 1866. Our subject wras reared on his father's farm in Jennings County, where he received a good common school education. During winter he attended the country schools in the old pioneer log school-house, working on his father's farm in summer. Being of a studious turn of mind and very fond of books, his advancement was more rapid than the average boy of his age, and at the age of seventeen years he entered the State University at Bloomington, Ind., a privilege that but few of the boys of that day were permitted to enjoy. At the age of nineteen years he taught a winter term, and then returned to college, where, in 1855, he graduated in a class with Judge D. D. Banta, Rev. John C. Miller, John W. Foster, and others. He began life for himself at the age of nineteen years; but the real struggle, however, did not begin until the age of twenty-two years. Immediately after the completion of his studies at Bloomington, he began winter school in Jennings County, Ind. He remained in Jennings County one year, then came to Johnson County in 1856, where he immediately secured a school and began teaching, which occupation he continued until 1859, when he accepted a position as book-keeper for a company that was constructing levees at Vicksburg, Miss., where he remained until the spring following, when he returned to Johnson County and began teaching school, which he continued until 1862, when he abandoned the profession. March 20, 1862, he was united in marriage with Rebecca S. Forsythe, daughter of Robert C. and Nancy (Pritchard) Forsythe. The father was born in Virginia, but was reared in Kentucky, of Irish descent; the mother was a native of Kentucky; they were among the first settlers of Johnson County. His wife is still living, and though she has reached the good old age of eighty-nine years, her present good health indicates that she may live many years yet. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Pendleton was blessed with the following children: Dora A., born September 29, 1863; Anna Kate, February 9, 1868, and George H., January 5, 1871. The mother of these children was born March 22, 1843. Mr. Pendleton is a man who has taken a great interest in the education of his children. Miss Dora has a polished education, being a graduate of Butler University, and is accomplished in music, and is now teaching music. Miss Anna, and George, are now attending college at Franklin, Ind. He was formerly a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, of which denomination he early became a member, but in 1858, he became a member of the Christian Church, and has been an elder in that church about twenty-five years. His family are members of this church. In politics, he is a democrat, casting his first presidential vote for James Buchanan. In 1863, he was elected to the state legislature, and acquitted himself so well in this position that he was again tendered the nomination, but gracefully refused. In 1874, and again in 1876, he received the nomination for congress by the greenback party, against an opposing majority, and was defeated with the others on this ticket. He rfow owns one of the finest farms, of 565 acres, in Nineveh Township, with substantial buildings, and one of the most beautiful residences in Johnson County, which he so well merits and deserves, having started with nothing. When he arrived in Johnson County, he only had 25 cents, a few books and some clothes, but by close economy and good management, is now surrounded with all the comforts of life. He has made a success of life, and can attribute it all to his own energy and ambition. His vocation since his marriage has chiefly been farming, but in connection with farming has given a great deal of his time and attention to stock. He possesses the confidence of all who know him. He is honest and upright in all his dealings, and his position in society is a fitting reward for the work and toil of a life-time. He has always been friendly to schools, churches and all laudable enterprises tending to benefit the public, his neighbors and the citizens of the county. The faithfulness with with which he has always fulfilled his promises, served him as capital in his earlier days, when he possessed but little property.

David A. Pritchard, an old pioneer farmer of Nineveh Township, was born January 7, 1835, and is a son of David P. and Cynthia (Dunham) Pritchard; the father was a native of Kentucky, of Scotch-Welsh descent, was born September 16, 1804, died July 29, 1880. The mother was a native of Ohio, of German descent, born August 21, 1809, and died June 22, 1878. To our subject's parents, were born the following children : Walter, born October 26, 1827; Dunham, November 12, 1830; David A., January 7, 1835; Daniel, December 17, 1837: Robert W., April 1, 1842. Our subject wras reared on his father's farm near Williamsburgh; this land was entered by our subject's father about 1827. He received a very limited common school education. At the age of twenty-one years he began the battle of life for himself, by working at the carpenter's trade, but his principal occupation was farming, which vocation he has continued since that time, June 23, 1861, he was united in marriage with Mrs. Sarah A. Daniel, and daughter of George W. and Emeline Watkins. Parents were natives of Kentucky, both of Irish descent. This union was blessed with the following children: Ambrose P. ,born March 3, 1862; Daniel N., October 26, 1863; Emma, February 19, 1866; Henry, January 16, 1869; deceased; Susan, August 17, 1871 ; Charles, February 19, 1874; Omer, April 13, 1877; Roscoe, March 22, 1880; infant daughter, February 10, 1882. The mother of these children was born September 23, 1839, and departed this life October 1, 1884. He and wife were both members of the Christian Church. He was a member of the Grange order during the lifetime of that order. He was formerly a republican, casting his first presidential vote for Fre- mont, but in 1874, he voted the national greenback ticket, and has been an ardent supporter of the principles of that party since that time. He now owns eighty acres of good farming land in Nineveh Township. He and family are highly respected by all who know them.

Francis M. Proffitt, a prosperous farmer of Nineveh Township, is a native of Tennessee, born September 1, 1833, the son of Jeremiah and Elizabeth (Cox) Proffitt. The father was a native of Tennessee, of English descent, and the mother is also a native of Tennessee, of English descent. Our subject was reared in Greene County, Tenn. He received a good common school education in the old log school-house. In 1858 he entered Mossey Creek College, and remained one term. At the age of twenty-one years he began life for, himself as a teacher. He taught school until thirty years of age, and has taught about twenty years. He taught five years at Amity, near Edinburg. April 4, 1865, he was united in marriage with America Richardson, a daughter of Dudley and Elizabeth (Brent) Richardson. This union was blessed with the following children : Elmon M., born April 30, 1866; Ernest G., February 12, 1870; Maris M., December 27, 1876. The mother of these children was born June 13, 1846. He and wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church. In politics, he is a republican. He now owns a nice farm of seventy acres. He and wife are among the well-respected families of this township.

Peter B. Reidenbach, a native of Pennsylvania, was born October 29, 1832, and is the son of Jacob and Rebecca (Baker) Reidenbach. The father was a native of Pennsylvania, of German -descent. Th,e mother is a native of Pennsylvania, of English descent. Our subject's boyhood and youth were spent on a farm in Pennsylvania. At the age of seventeen, he commenced to work at the blacksmith's trade, served his apprenticeship, and is now recognized as the first mechanic in Nineveh Township. At the age of twenty-one years, he began life for himself by working at his trade. He received a common school education, and, in 1862, he enlisted in Company H, Fifty-fourth Regiment Indiana Volunteers, under Capt. O. M. Wilson; he served sixteen months, and was discharged at New Orleans, December 14, 1863. November 1, i860, he was united in marriage with Josephia Paskins, a daughter of Thomas and Delilah (Samples) Paskins. The father was originally from England, and was born in the year 1801. The mother was. a native of Virginia, of English descent. This union was blessed with the following children : William, born July 19, 1861; George, October 20, 1863; Thomas E., October 15, 1866; Adam, May 7, 1868; Amanda, May 28, 1873; Alonzo, August 15,

1S75. The mother of these children was born September 12, 1837. He and wife are members of the Christian Church. In politics, he has always been an ardent democrat. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity. He now owns forty-two acres of very fine land under a high state of cultivation.

Ranson Riggs, deceased, was one of the pioneers of Johnson County. He was born November 7, 1825, and was a son of Ransom and Sarah (Treamain) Riggs. The father, of German descent, was born March 6, 1789, and died January 16, 1863. The mother was a native of New Hampshire, born June 30, 1795. Our subject was reared on a farm in Johnson County. He received a common school education, and at the age of twenty-one years he began life for himself. He worked at the carpenter's trade about ten years, and then settled on a farm, where he departed this life February 24, 1888. August 25, 1859, he was united in marriage with Catharine Vickerman, a daughter of William and Marion (Crichton) Vickerman, whose father was of English descent, born April 21, 1796; and the mother of Scotch descent, born November 20, 1795, and departed this life September 12, 1850. This union was blessed with the following children: William V., born August 1, i860; Sarah M., July 16, 1862; Elizabeth J., May 22, 1864; James A., May 23, 1866; Anna M., September 1, 1868, and Laura S., March 10, 1870. The mother of these children was born January 2, 183 1. He and wife were members of the old-school Baptist Church. In politics, he was a republican, and served his county one term as commissioner. He was a man well liked by every one, and by his straightforward course had gained the confidence of all who knew him. By a will, he left to his widow 340 acres of. well-improved land in Nineveh Township. His family is among the highly respectable families of Nineveh Township.

Levi Runshe, a respected citizen of Nineveh Township, was born in Bucks County, Penn., May 19, 1830. He is the son of Jacob and Hannah (Dearrolf) Runshe. The father, a native of Pennsylvania, was born in Lancaster Couuty, September 28, 1800, of Scotch descent, and died in Knox County, Ind., in 1873. The mother, a native of Pennsylvania, was born in Bucks County, in 1802, of German descent, and died in Shelby County, Ind., in 1859. Our subject was reared on a farm until twenty years of age, and received a good common school education. He began life at the age of twenty years, on his own account, learning the wagonmaker's trade, and continued in this occupation until 1883. July 2, 1854, he was married to Miss Mary Ann Muck. The issue of this marriage has been as follows : George Albert, born September 28, 1855; Emanuel Walter, February 18, 1857, deceased; Ann Eliza,