Penn Township (part 1 of 2)

Penn Township

Much doubt and uncertainty envelope many of the events which go to make up the early history of a new country. The solitary wilds of an unexplored region afibrd few opportunities for making those notes and records which as time advances become valuable to the seeker after historical truths; and as a general thing the explorers and settlers of our great West have been men little accustomed to literary pursuits, and less desirous of literary honors. Besides, the arduous labors and engrossing duties of pioneer life leave little room or opportunity for that quiet and leisure indispensable to scholarly habits. Thus it is that a large portion of interesting events and reminiscences of our first settlements have faded from the memory of man, or are only handed down as traditions distorted by this uncertain medium, or mystified by the lapse of time. So it is with the pioneer history of Penn township; for we have found conflicting statements in some particulars regarding pioneer days and events; but by interviewing the most reliable authorities, the pioneers themselves, we are enabled to give a sketch which we hope will meet the approbation of all.

Penn townshij) is a timbered country, and in the pioneer days when there were no railroads, telegraph wires, or even wagon roads, it was dithcult for the settlers to go from one cabin to another without becoming lost. On one occasion a gentleman had gone some distance from home to a near neighbor's on an errand, and night overtaking him on bis return he got lost, and wandered in the dense forest all night, while the wild lightnings flashed around him in a threatening manner. He was not found until late the following day. If the thick timber had been the only barrier to a rapid growth of settlement and improvement in this township, the obstacle would have soon been overcome; but there was a large amount of marsh land in the township, and it was almost impossible to traverse the marshes with a team; and the traveling was done by circuitous routes to avoid these marshy tracts of land. Many of these marshes have been drained, and now constitute a portion of the most fertile land in Penn township. The same land that now yields abundant crops was then a quagmire and a pit for explorers to fall into. It would be in keeping here to remark that there is a large marsh extending from the St. Joseph river near South Bend toward the southeast, almost the entire length of the township, or to within a half mile of the eastern line of the township. This marsh varies from tliree-fcurths of a mile to two miles in width. Near its center is an elevated, oblong tract of land consisting of 200 to 300 acres, which is under cultivation and known (78S.

Histoet Of 61. Joseph County

as the " Island." This peculiarly shaped marsh is regarded by the citizens of this township as once forming an arm of Lake Michigan. Tliis is perhaps true, as the indications are such as to lead any thinking person to such conclusions.

During the first settlement of the township the pioneers got their mail at Edwardsville, Cass Co., Mich., which was carried on horseback from Fort Wayne to that point. It here intersected the mail route between Detroit and Chicago. The residences of the pioneers consisted of log huts, and some were so poor that they made bedsteads of round poles. They did tlieir cooking by the fireplace. A stick was fastened across tlie cliimney at some distance above tlie lire, and the kettles were suspended from this by means of iron hooks or chains. The bread was baked in a ''Dutch oven."

Although tliese sturdy pioneers of the forest had to undergo many privations, they were a jovial class of people, and had their amusements and enjoyments, though in a rustic way. as do the people of the present day. The mill at which they lirst got their wheat ground was located below Niles, Mich.

In those days there were ten Indians to one " pale- face," yet they were not troublesome, save to beg and steal a little when an opportunity presented itself, which is a characteristic of the " noble red man of the forest."

The noted chief '' Raccoon " was buried near the house of Mr. James Curtis, in the eastern part of the township, and fo)- weeks his tribe would bring tlieir provisions to his grave, and sing and dance around the grave for some time, and then eat their dinners and return to camp. Raccoon's skeleton was exhumed a short time since by the Curtis boys, who took the jaw bone to Mishawaka, where it can now be found in the Enterprise office.

At the beginning of the Black Hawk war the settlers of Penn township, knowing the great chief Pokagon and his warriors to be very powerful, sent a delegation to confer with him, and to learn what his plan of action should be for the coming campaign. He sent the glad news back to the half frightened settlers that he would remain neutral during the contest. A German who could not understand all the English vocabulary readily, was standing by and beard Pokagon's reply announced, when he tiecame very much excited and insisted that " that damt neutral is now not 20 miles from here."

While some were busily engaged in making farms, others erected mills, and thus aided in improving the new country. In 1831 or '32 a saw- mill was built on Bawbawgo creek, near where the village of Oceola now stands. Several years after this, another mill was built a little lower down; and by extendinj^ the same race, theone dam answered for bath mills. This last mill was erected by Zelotes Bancroft; b\it the date is not certainly known.

In 1856, this mill having been discontinued, Mr. Bancroft and his brother William erected a saw and grist-mill on the same site. It is now owned and conducted b}' a nephew of the preceding. Its capacity is 25 barrels per day. Mr. Bancroft is a life-long miller, and makes the best of flour. The saw-mill attachment is also run in connection with the flouring mill.

Penn township formerly contained Harris and Madison, and a portion of Centre and Portage townships. The first settlers were William and Timothy J\Ioat, who located here about 1828, on section 17. Soon afterward came William Holt, Jesse Skinner, S. L. Cottrell, James Curtis, the Byrkits, Irelands and others. The first church edifice was built in Mishawaka. The first election was held in 1832, and Alpheus Ireland was one of the first justices of the peace. Nathan W. Young was also among the first settlers. He preempted land when the surveyors were at work here, and also carried chain for the Government surveyors. The beautiful prairie in Micliigan known as Young's Prairie was named for him. Mr. Young is a natural genius, and is the author of several useful inventions, but not being financially able to have them patented, other parties are reaping the fruits of his labors. He now resides in Mifhawaka.

In July. 1833, A. M. Hurd laid out and platted the village of "St. Joseph Iron Works," about four miles above South Bend, on the south baid< of the St. Joseph river. Jan. 1, 1835, an election was held, and James AVhite, John J. Deming, Samuel Stancliif, Henry De Camp and Alexander Sanderlands were elected village trustees. Tiiis was the first village organization in the county. During the same year William Barbee, of Ohio, laid out an addition to the east side of the village, and on the west side another addition was made, known as Taylor's Addition. In 1836 Joseph Bartell, James 11. Lawrence and Grove Lawrence laid out the town of Indiana City, on the north side of the river, opposite St. Joseph Iron Works. This land (being scluiol land), where Mishawaka now stands, upon petition of the settlers to the School Commissioner, was purcliMsed Jan. 1, 1833. liy Mr. Hurd. who had promised to erect a blast turnace upon tlie site. The following spring, he, in company with William L. Eurl, proceeded to erect the furnace. At the end of the year houses and si anties enough v.ere erected to accommodate irO ))ersons. In the spring of 183-1: a ])ostoflice was establi-^lied. and tlic Indian name "Mishawaka" was given it at the suggesiion of Llr. Verringtoii, who was apoointed postmaster. 'ilie term " Mi.-iiawaka " was the tame of an Indian village that cnco occupied Taylor's Addition to the village of St. Joseph Iron

History Of St. Joseph Oountv

"Works, and it signifies " Swift water," or as some render it," Tliickwoods rapids." Either interpretation would be descriptive of the location, as the water at this point in the river was very swift, and also the land on either side was covered with a dense growth of heavy timber. The Indians had a small tract of iand cleared where their village of Mishawaka stood, and the large corn hills, which were of a conical shape, and about two feet high, remained there for several years after this country was settled.

While houses were being erected, and settlers and prospecting parties flocking in, the work upon the furnace was fast appi-oaching completion, and was finished in lS3-t. The dam was built by the St. Joseph Iron Companj' in 1835, which was the first dam on the St. Joseph river, and is still standing. This company was incorporated Jan. 22, 1835. Prior to this the i-iver was navigable, and both tow and steam boats plied the limpid waters of this crystal stream for several years, as far up as Tluce Rivers, Mich.

The first flouring mill was erected in 1835 by Mr. Taylor. In 1834 a hotel was erected and run by Orlando Ilurd. The first ' bridge across the St. Joseph river was built at Mishawaka in 1837.

In 1839 St. Joseph Iron Works with its two additions, and Indiana City were incorporated as one town, and named Mishawaka. The town is situated on both banks of the St. Joseph, within about a mile of the most southern point of that river. The site is one of very great natural beauty, and art and taste have added largely to its original loveliness. On the south side there is a gentle upward slope iVnm the river bank, far oft' beyond the limits of the town. Here, embowered beneath a jn-ofusion of natural and cultivated trees, shrubbery and flowers, is built the main portion of Mishawaka. On the opposite side the batiks are more precipitous, forming a high table land, seemingly designed bj' Nature fjr its present uses. To the lover of the beautiful and the sublime, a visit to the Riverside Park is one not only to be enjoyed, but a visit to be remembered. Standing among the beautiful oaks and cedars that nature has planted upon that elevated plaiTi, his eyes are greeted bv many beautiful sights at almost the same instant. Looking directly south he sees the original Alilburn Wagon Works, that tower several stories above the basement, wliose walls are made bright by the reflection of the sun from the crystal waters of the beautiful St. Jose))h. Then a little beyond he observes many church s]iires ])ointing toward the skies, seeming to say, " Behold the Lamb of (tocI." And as he turns his eye to the southeast he is again impressed with the wonderful advancement in art, for here his eye falls ujion a neatly constructed iron bridge, with hundreds of pedeitrians, equestrians and teamsters parsing over it daily. When he has completed his stroll in Riverside Park on the north side, as the sun gradually sinks toward the western horizon, and as he wends his way back to the Milbnrn ILmse, he is struck with wonder and delight while cro.s!-ing the bridge, for, looking into the switt-runnirig water beneath, he sees hundreds of tish swimming in all directions

The St. Josepli Iron Company continued to operate their blast furnaces until 1850, wiien the supply of ore failed. They also established a foundry, and put in operation other machinery which has been of great benefit to the place. After the exhaustion of the ore they began the manufacture of plows, cultivators, etc., and macliinery. Capital stock, $200,000. Albert Hudson is president, and J. H. Whitson general superintendent. In 1868 the name was changed to St. Joseph Manufacturing Company. The hydraulic power at this place is unsurpassed at any point on the river, and the facilities for erecting mills are most excellent.. The town is situated upon the Michigan Southern and Grand Trunk Ilailroads, and is easily accessible from East or West. The surrounding country is one of e.xtraordinary fertility, and the healthfulness of the place is undisputed.

In early times there was great rivalry between Mishawaka and South Bend. They were less than four miles apart, and the advantages they offered differed very slightly, e.Kcept that the latter had the honor of being the county-seat. The bitterness of those days has, however, subsided, and it is now seen that the interests of the two places are identical.

Before many years the borders of the tliriving towns will meet, and it is not at all improbable that in the course of time they will be joined in one mnnicipalitj'.

The ris'er at Mishawaka is about 100 yards wide, and the fall over the dam is eight feet. The natural fall at these rapids, in a distance of but a few rods, has been ascertained by actual measurement to be two feet and nine inches. The race on the south side is about 400 yards in length, and the one on the north side over 200 yards. On either side tJiere is room for further extension, and there is at all times an abundance of water for all conceivable purposes. Indeed, but a very small portion of this valuable power has, as yet, been utilized. The manufactories are, however, gradually and successfully increasing, of each of which we shall speak a little further on .

In 1872 the great fire destroyed 32 buildings in the business part of town, valued, together with their contents, at over $80,000. New brick buildings immediately arose upon the ruins, and about 24 new stores were opened in the brick blocks thus erected. Scarcely had the citizens of Mishawaka recovered from the terrible effects of the fire, when the great and noted Milburn Wagon Works were removed from their town to Toledo. This was another severe shock upon the growth and prosperity of Mishawaka. But her citizens are not to be discouraged, for thej have pressed forward until everytbing is life and bustle again. New manufactories occupy the old Milburn stand, and every enterprise seems to prosper.

Mishawnkci MUls. - This mill was erected in 1830, and is now owned and operated by Joseph and William Miller, who purchased it in 1876. They have recently refitted and painted it, and it presents a striking appearance. They run five sets of burrs, making about 225 barrels of flour daily. The flour is of excellent quality, standing at the head of the market, both in the East and West.

St. Ji)seph Mill. - This structure was erected in 1861 by George and Casper Kuhn, and August Kellner. It is now owned and operated by Mr. George Kuhn, who is doing a good business. He does mostly a jobbing business. Capacity of mill, 150 barrels in 2-1 hours. He makes patent flour, as also do the other mills in Mishawaka.

Perkins Windmill and Ax Company. - This establishment manufactures edge tools, pumps, and water tanks; but its principal business is the manufacture of the Perkins windmill, which was invented and patented by P. C. Perkins in 1869. In 1873 there was a joint company formed for its manufacture. They are doing a large business.

Dodge Manufacturing Company. - The Dodge Manufactory was established in 1878, and incorporated in 1880. They manufacture school furniture, wooden ware, etc. From Jan. 1, 1880, until Aug. 1 of the same year, they took 2,000,000 feet of lumber from the stum]), and sawed and worked it into goods. The company is now behind with their orders, and business coustantl}' increasing.

St. Joseph Valley Furniture Company. - The business of this firm was established in a wing of the Milburn AVagon Manufactory in 1878, with a capital stuck of $50,000. They, make drawer work a specialty. This firm is shipping their chamber-suits and' bedsteads mostly to Ohio and the East, and they are behind with their orders, which are accumulating upon their hands. J. A. Koper is president.

Telegraph Insulator Manufactory. - This is of recent advent into Mishawaka. It was removed from Hudson, Mich., to this place in the summer of 1880, liy Robert Gilliland. The business is a thriving one, and adds material wealth to Mishawaka.

School Furniture Manufactory. - A. H. Andrews & Co., of Chicago, established a branch tnauu factory in Mishawaka in 1871, and are doing a good business in the manufacture of school furniture.

Ripple Mills. - Tiie Kipple Mills were erected by A. Cass & Co., who owned them for several years, but recently passed into the hands of J. II. and A. Eberhart, who are doing a large business. They have live run of stones, witli a capacity of 225 barrels in 2-i hours. They make the best of flour, and have a large trade in the East.

There is also in Mishawaka a stave factory, a wood-pulp mill, a woolen factory, a wagon manufactory, a barrel factory, and several smaller cooper shops and minor manufactories of various kinds. All departments of trade and business are represented in Mishawaka, the most prominent and leading representatives of which we will mention in the biographical department of the history of Mishawaka and Penn township.

Riverside Park

This beautiful table land, which we have already referred to, is situated on the north bank of the ISt. Joseph river, opposite the Milburn Wagon Works. As yet there has been nothing done to beautify the grounds, save what nature alone has done. In 1879 one Mr. Robbins Battel!, of Hartford, Conn., sent Thomas McClunie. an experienced architect, here, who surveyed and platted the proposed park. Battell proposes to donate it to the town if the citizens will make of the land a park, after the prescribed improvements or specifications in the plat. This gentleman anticipates erecting a female seminary directly west of the park.

The first couple married in Mishawaka were Hiram Rush and Miss Inwood, by Rev. N. M. Wells. Indiana Yerringtou was the first child born, receiving his name in lionor of the State. The first death was that of a Mr. Moore.

Mishawaka has a fine cornet band, which discourses strains of that which " hath charms to soothe the savage ear." It is ably led and conducted by Mr. Jacob Eckstein, a first-class musician of Mishawaka, and, by the way, a subscriber for this work, whose sketch appears in the biographical department.

Secret Societies

Odd Fellows. - St. Joseph Lodge No. 27, I. O. 0. F., was orfanized about 1843. Among its members were Dr. Eddy and ohn Niles, deceased, Albert Cass, H. E. Ilnrlbut, A. H. Long and James Easton. still members of the order. This lodge ceased to work, and Monitor Lodge, No. 286, was instituted Aug. 13, -1867. Tiie cliarter members were A. H. Long, James Easton, Washington Gibson, Philip McElvain and Thomas S. Long, the latter l)eing the first Noble Grand. The Lodge hall was destroyed by the lire of 1872, with all the furniture; since then the lodge has furnished a new hall in the riirenhx block, as above stated, which is an honor, not only to the lodge, but also to the order generally. The lodge has over a hundred members and is in a prosperous condition.

Educational

There soon came a time amid the rush of business, the foundation of homes, and making of farms, when the enterprising settlers of this locality turned their attention to the all-important duty of educating their children. There seemed now to be something else for the little prattlers to do besides gathering nuts and acorns from under the lofty trees of the dense forests of Penn township. The pioneer school-house was soon erected. It was a small, round-log cabin, with a puncheon door hung upon wooden hinges. The floor was also made of puncheons, as were the writing desks, which were supported by pins in the wall. The seats consisted of split logs, supported upon pin legs. They sat upon these with their backs resting against the edge of the desks; and wlien they wished to write they just "flopped around, right about face." But the smaller ones sat upon these rustic seats with their feet dangliug a foot above the floor, and with nothing against which to rest their little bowed-up backs.

The room was warmed by a huge fire-place, which occupied the entire end of the house, and was filled with logs that the boys drew into the room ujjon a sled. The roof consisted of clapboards, which were fastened or secured by means of poles laid lengthwise with the roof, about three feet apart, separated by chunks or knees. The chimney was made of "cat and clay " (mud and straw) and sticks. The windows of the pioneer school-house consisted of a log removed nearly the entire length of the building, and greased paper pasted over the'aperture for lights. The text-books consisted principally of a speller, Testament and an arithmetic. In those days the children did not need to dress in fine clothes, in order to rival some classmate in that direction, but all alike wore garments to school, spun and woven by their mothers.

The schools were iirst tauglit entirely by subscription, and the teachers were principally of the "ox-gad persuasion," usino; force rather tlian affection as a means of obtaining and preserving good order. Tiie first school-liouse in tlie township was erected in 1832. The schools, as well as all branches of industry, have greatly changed since then.

In Mishawaka there had been more interest taken in the public schools than in any other part of the county, and witii good success. The first school-house was built here in 1834, which was a small frame building; and the first teacher was a Miss Sheldon, of White Pigeon. The schools of Misliawaka have reached a high degree of excellence, under the wise management of Prof. Elisha Sumption, who has had cliarge of them for seven years, but has lately resigned on account of failing health. Misliawaka has a fine high-scliool building, that cost about $50,000, containing 12 rooms and offices. This IS one of tiie finest school buildings in N^orthern Indiana, and speaks well for the enterprise of the flourishing town of Misliawaka.

There are 14 school districts in Penn township. There were formerly 15, but No. 1 was, in 1880, discontinued and attached to district No. 9 and to Mishawaka.

The County Superintendent of Public Instruction, Mr. Moon held his annual county teachers' institute in the high-school building at Mishawaka, in August, 1880, and teachers were favorably impressed with the very able instructions tiiere given to them by professors from Indianapolis, Terre Haute, Valparaiso and New York. The educational interests are thus being promoted, not only in Mishawaka and Penn township, but throughout tlie entire county.

Mishawaka Baptist Church. - There was an organization of this Church in Mishawaka prior to 1840, Init it has since become extinct. The present Church was organized May 14, 18G7, by Elders T. P. Campbell, of South Bend, and B. P. Russell, of Niles, Mich., and brethren from tlie Churclies of South Bend, Niles and Penn township. There were 18 charter members; Rev. M. T. Lamb was the first pastor, P. C. Perkins first clei'k, and J. C. Snyder the first treasurer. The first deacons were Jolin Merriman, A. J. Ames and J. C. Snyder. Rev. F. Moro was pastor of the Church from December, 1870, to November, 1871. Rev. B. P. Russell became pastor in 1874. In 1868 this society erected a house of worship, valued at $5,000. Sabbath-school each Sabbath at 12 m.; and services each alternate Sabbath morning and each Sabbath evening, bv Rev. H. J. Finch, pastor. Present number of communicants, 101.

First Baptist Church of Penn Township. - Feb. 11, 1837, a meeting was held in the house of Eli B. Mead, for the purpose of constituting a Baptist Church in Penn township. Rev. Price, of

History Of St. Joseph County

Edwardsburg, Elan S. Colby, of Lockport, and Mr. Alger of Mishawaka, were present. Rev. Price was choseu moderator, and Mr. Colby made clerk of the meeting. The following persons presented letters of commendation, and expressed a desire to unite in Church fellowship; Isaiah Ferris, Jacob M. Galor, Jonathan Buck, John Barton, Lucinda Ferris, Sr., Elizabeth Ferris, Azubah (ialor, Anna Buck, Belinda Barton and Parraelia Ferris. Elder Price examined them, extended to them the right-hand of tellowship, and pronounced them a Church, to be known as "The First Baptist Church of Penn Township." John Barton was the first cleik and B. J. Ferris the first treasurer.

Messrs. Galor and Buck were elected trustees, to attend to selecting ground and erecting a house of worship. In 1S3S the society erected a small log house in which to worsiiip. Rev. Adam Miller w-as the first pastor, the}' having worshiped for some time without a minister in charge. The present house was erected in 1849, a large frame building, about it; miles south of Mishawaka. The Church grew weaker by deaths, emigration and removals to Mishawaka, until it is now extinct. It was the first Baptist CluiroU organized in the county, and now it is numbered with the things that were. Its only survivors are Jacob M. and Aznbah Galor, of Mishawaka; Parmelia Ferris, now Mrs. Moore, of Pleasant Valley; and Delinda Barton, of Kansas.

Pleasant Valley Baptist Church was organized about 1852. They have a neat little frame house of worship in the northeastern part of Penn township; Elder H. J. Finch is the pastor. Number of communicants, 20.

Christian Church. - The Christian Church at Mishawaka was organized about 1843. The first elders were H. E. llnrlbut, A. Alden and Morris Hartwick. The first deacons were S. B. Hutchinson, A. L. Wright and C. Hartman. The pioneer ministers of this denomination, who occasionally held services in Mishawaka, were R. Wilson, C. Martin, J. Martindale, P. T. Russell, H. E. Hurlbut and William T. Horner. The latter began in 1854, and preached nearly regularly fur two years. During the next twelve years Elders Lane, New, Beggs, Green, Shepard and Hurlbut, respectively, preached to the Ghurch. In 1867 I. J. Chase became pastor, remaining for two years, when Elder William B. Ilendrin took his place and remained for the same length of time. Elders R. Fauret, Sutten and S. K. Sweetman also ofliciated as pastors. This Church owes much to Dr. O'Connor and S. I. II. Ireland for its prosperity. The house is valued at $5,000. The society sustains weekly prayermeetings and Sabbath-school, besides services each Sabbath by the pastor, Elder C. P. Hendershot. Communicants, 120.

St. Joseph's Catholic Church, at Mishawaka. The first organization of this society dates back to 1848, although services had been previously held here by that denomination. A house had been erected on the north side of the river, and was that year dedicated tojhe Most High. Revs. W. Zevers, J. F. Gouesset, W. Masters and the Father Superior of Notre Dame, Very Rev. R. E. Sorin, and others were instrumental in establishing this Church. The society had no pastor until 1857, when Rev. John Mayer was appointed to this charoje; but in 1850 he accepted the pastorate of St. Peter's Church in Chicago. In December, 1859, Bishop Right Rev. John H. Luers, of Fort Wayne, appointed Rev. H. Koening to the pastorate of this Church. In March, 1860, the house was destroyed by tire, which was a severe blow upon the young Church. By the united efforts of priest, the Church, and sfime of the wealthy citizens of Mishawaka, another house was erected on the south side, which is the present commodious structure. Special mention should be made of George Milburn, who gave liberally to this enterprise. The house is 92 by 41 feet, and 25 feet high. Many improvements were made during the administration of Rev. Koening, including a parsonage, and a building for a parochial school. In May, 1867, Rev. A. B. Oechtering entered upon the duties of pastor of this Church. In 1871 two fine bells were purchased, and"in 1872 another was added, w^hich make the town resound with their melody as tBey call the good ])eople together. In 1872 the walls were frescoed, and still further improvements made. The pulpit and altar in this Church are unsurpassed for beauty and grandeur in the United States. On this are represented the 1-4 principal scenes of the passion and death of our blessed Lord.

Catholics do not worship these pictures and images, as many suppose; but as they look ujion them they meditate upon the suffering Master and his love for poor mankind.

The Church now supports two schools, and owns a library of 600 volumes. It still continues to prosper under the fatherly care of Rev. A. B. Oechtering, who lias been tendered a more remunerative situation, but preferred to remain here. The communicants now number over 200 families.

^Evangelical Association, at Mishawaka, was organized in 1846 by Rev. G. G. Platz, with 15 charter members. The first presiding elder was Rev. G. G. Platz, and the first pastor was Rev. William Kol!). They erected a house of worship in 1857. The Church grew and prospered for a time, but by death and emigration it became very much weakened. There are now but 34 members. They sustain weekly prayer- meetings and Sabbath-school; services each Sabbath by the pastor. Rev. Henry Arlen. This society erected a new church edifice in 1872.

Coal Bash Evangelical Association, three and a half miles south of Mishawaka. This society, of which there is one in Mishawaka, is not known in their records by the name of '' Church," any more than the term Odd Fellows, or Good Templars is known by that name; but nevertheless it is a Church as much as anj' other Christian organiz ition. It was organized in 1847, by Rev. G. G. Platz. The house was erected in lS5ti. At one time this society was one of the strongest in the North Indiana Conference; but by death and emigration it has been weakened until the membership numbers but nine. Services each alternate Sunday, by Rev. Henry Arlen, pastor. The rnles and reguhitions of this Chnrcli are much the same as that of the Methodists. In fact, many persons call them German Methodists, thinkinofthem to be indentical with that denomination.

/St. Audreio's Evangelical Chxreh, of Mishawaka. - This organization difters materially from the " Evangelical Association." It was organized in 1864 with 25 members, by Rev. Philip "Wagoner. They erected a honse the same year. Services each alternate Sunday, by the pastor, Rev. Philip Wagoner. Communicants about

Lutheran Church, at Mishawaka, was organized prior to 18-iS by Rev. Philip Bernreuther, with about 12 members. This society sustains services each Sabbath in summer, and each alternate Sabbath in the winter seasons. In the winter they also have a Sunday or catechism school, for children, and sustain also a denominational day-school four days each week during winter. Communicants about 20. Rev. Gustavus Rosenwinkel, pastor.

llishaioaka Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in 1S35. The charter members were Richmond Tuttle and wife, Joseph Skerritt and wife, Susan Kurd, and a brother whose name is lost. They at first worshiped in an empty store building, which was also used by the Presbyterians. The first house of worship was erected in 1836, another in 184-1, which is now occupied by the Mishawaka furniture store. The last and present structure was erfcted in 1S72, which is a credit, not only to the Methodist Church, but also to the town ot Mishawaka. Sabbathschool each Sabbath, and services each Sunday morning and evening, by the pastor, Rev. Mr. Cone. They also sustain a weekly prayermeeting and class-meeting.

Tamarack Methodist Church, seven miles southeast of Mishawaka. - This' class was organized in a log school-house, Dec. 19, 1855, by Rev. E. P. Church, with 11 charter members, viz.: A. B. Lamport, A. M. Lamport, Ro.xy Lamport, Wiliard Rockwell, Deborah Rockwell, Elam Crouch, Benjamin Pickard, Isaac Ghrist, Esther S. Ghrist, Edwin Sawyer and Phwbe Sawyer. They worshiped in the Tamarack school-house until the tall of 1880, when tliey erected a substantial house 34 x 50 feet. There are now 56 communicants. Sabbath-school each Sabbath, and services each alternate Sunday by the pastor. Rev. J. H. Jackson.

Eree Methodists, of Mishawaka. This peculiar sect was organized in Mishawaka in 1877. They are a branch of the M. E. Church, or rather have separated themselves from that Church. There are about 16 or 18 members, and they worship in an old dwelling-house, fitted up for their purpose.

Presbyterian Ch urch, at Mishawaka. This Church was organized July 25, 1834, by Rev. JS'. M. Wells, who died in Detroit in 1879. The organization took place in the house of Philo llurd. The following is a list nf the charter members: Rev, N". M. Wells. Elias

Smith, Alna Smith, Levi Dean, Polly Dean, Philo Hiird, Martha Hurd, Alanson M. Kurd, Sarah L. Hard, Willis S. Garrison. Philo Hurd and Ellas Smith wereUie first elders, and Philo Hurd the first deacon. Jan. 29, 1S35, John J. Demiiig was received into the Church as an elder, and elected clerk. There is now in the church a chandelier presented to the society by Jud^e Deming's daughter, Mrs. Charles Crocker, of California. The first house of worship was erected in 1837, and another one in 1845, which was destroyed b^' the fire of 1S72. The present structure was erected in the fall of 1872. Services eacli Sabbath morninji: and alternate Sabbatli evenings by the pastor. Rev. S. Y. McKee. Sabbath-school each Sabbath. Coniniunicants, 90.

Personal Sketches

As a country grows older the more interesting and valuable is its biographical liistory, and not only so, but the best writers of the country are advocating the more general reading of this class of literature by the young, believing it to exert a better Infiuence upon them than any other class of the literature of the day. With these thougiits in view, and in justice to the veterans wlio have made this township and city what it is, we append brief personal sketches of many of them. Nor do we forget those who to-day are actively engaged in life's labors.

Zelotes Bancroft was born in the town of Castile, N. Y., Oct. 23, 1831. At a very early age he was placed at work in a flouringmill, which vocation he has followed for the njost part during life. He came with his parents to this county in 1837. He was married June 1, 1865, to Miss Sarah Masten, by whom he has had 4 children, one living, viz.: Zelia. He is proprietor ot Bancroft's flouring-mill at Osceola, of which we have given a history. William Bancroft, deceased, the father of Zelotes, was born in Granville, Mass., was a carriage and wagon-maker by trade; he removed to New York in 1826, where he engaged in lumbering as well as the prosecution of his trade. He was married Dec. 24, 1828, to Miss JEmeline Belden, by wliom he had 6 children; 5 of these are living: Zelotes, Alma, Ruth, Emeline and Louisa.

Stephen J. Batchelder, M. Z>., was born in Clinton county, N. Y., Nov. 21, 1833, and is a son of Stephen and Polly Batchelder, natives of New Hampshire. The former was a slioemaker. The subject of this notice was reared on a farm and received a commonschool education. He came with his parents to Noble county. Lid., in 1850, and removed to Jasper county, Iowa, in 1853. He labored as an assistant in a saw-mill in Iowa, where he iiad one hand crippled by the saw. He afterward read medicine under Dr. Hiram Parker, of Greencastle, Iowa. He graduated at the Keokuk College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1856. He began to practice in Greencastle, Iowa, in 1869, and in March of the same year became to Oceola, Ind., where he remained ten years, except one year, which be spent in California. In April, 1879, lie came to Misbawaka, wbere be bas a pjood practice. He and wife own 142^ acres of land in Penn tp. lie was married in 18.56 to Rotbilda Cole, by wbom be bas 3 cbildren: Squire J., Jobn H. and Rosey E. He again married in 1876 Mrs. Eliza Griffitts. Mrs. B. bad 'I cbildren by lier first busband, namely, Frank and Carrie.

Harrison G. Becnier was born in Sussex county, N. J., June 11, 1838, and is a son of Moses and Susan (Ayers) Beemer, natives also of New .Terse}'. He was brougbt up on a farm and educated at Ilolmesdale and University of Betbany, Pa.; taugbt scbool tbree years in Pennsylvania; clerked for Lloyd & Taylor, New York city, for four years. He tben went to Marion, Obio, and was employed as clerk for Jobnson, Ubler & Co. for tbree years. He served in tbe late war in Co. G, 136tb O. Vol. Inf., in lS6-l-'5. He afterward went to Lima and engaged in tbe dry-goods business in company witb Mr. Holmes. In 1868 be bougbt Holmes' interest. He was married Sept. 23, 186.5, to Miss Malinda Garvin, and tbey bave bad 3 cbildren, 2 of wbom are living: Nellie Estella and Georgianna May. Mr. Beemer came to Misbawaka in 1869, and engaged in tbe dry -goods business witb bis brotber-in-law, Mr. Garvin, until 1875, wben be bougbt Garvin's interest and took Mr. J. Quigg as a partner in October, 1879. At tbe fall election in 1879 be was elected to tbe office of County Recorder.

E. Y. Bingham, Justice of tbe Peace, Misbawaka, was born in tbis tp. Aug. 1, 1844, and is a son of Alfred and Ann (Miller) Bingbam, tbe former a native of New York, and tbe latter of Pennsylvania. Mr. B. was brougbt up and educated in tbisi)lace. He was admitted to tbe Bar in November, 1876, and began tbe practice of law soon after. He was elected to tbe ofiice of Justice of tbe Peace in 1872, and is now re-elected for tbe tbird term. He was married Dec. 7, 1872, to Miss Harriet E., second daugbterof Dr. Grimes, of Misbawaka. Tbey bave one cbild, Katie. He entered tbe late war in Co. G., 4Stb Ind. Vol. Inf., and was afterward promoted to Sergeant Major; was witb Sberman on bis noted march to tbe sea; was in tbe battle of Bentonville, and at Raleigb at tbe time of tbe Sberman and Jobnston agreement.

John Boles, P. 0., Oceola; was born in Wayne county, Ohio, Nov. 22, 1826, and is a son of James and Jane (Lawrence) Boles, tbe former a native of Ireland, and tbe latter of Pennsylvania. He was reai'ed on a farm and educated in tbe common schools. He came to tbis county in 1844, and worked at tbe carpenter trade for IS years. He was married in 1867 to Miss Mary Smith, by wbom be has 3 cbildren: Elmer, Lizzie and Jobimie. In 1859 bedrovean ox team to California, and returned in 1860, and engaged in farming. He resides on sec. 17, Penn tp., and owns 140 acres of valuable land. He cast his first vote for Polk, and bas ever since voted the Democratic ticket.

Lewis T. Booth was born in Seneca county, N. Y., Sept. 16, 1821; his parents were David and Ann (Darrow) Booth, natives of Connecticut. Mr. Booth was reared on a farm and educated at Waterloo, N. Y. He worked at the cooperino; business in New York, but has since been a carpenter and manufacturer of furniture. He was married in 1853 to Miss Sarah Boys, by whom he has 5 children, viz.: John, George, Mary, Mattie and Hattie. He came to Mishawaka in 1841, and returned to New York in 1S4C. He attain came to Misliawaka in 1852, where he subsequently engaged in making coiEn sets for the Eastern markets until 1859, when he became a member of the Mishawaka Furniture Company. He now deals in furniture and lumber, and has a good business. He also owns a saw-mill here, by which he is doing well.

John Borough^ 11. D.. was born in Wyandot, Ohio, March 17, 1843, and is a son of Henry and Sarah (Critz") Borough, the former a native near Martinsburg, Virginia, and the latter of Stark county, Ohio. He was reared on a farm and educated in the common school and in Findlay, Ohio. He served one and one-half years in theU. S. A. Signal Service during the late war. He taught school seven years, during the last two of which he read medicine. He then clerked IS months in a drug store. He graduated at the Cleveland Homeopathic College in February, 1874. He came to Mishawaka in July, 1874, and has built up a good practice. He was married Feb. 3, 1876, to Miss Helen E. Close.

Henry Burket, i-A.\-va.Gv on sec. 32; P.O., Mishawaka; was bora in Elkhart county, March 10, 1833, and is a son of John and Susannah Burket, natives of Ohio. Mr. B. was brought up on a farm and received a common-school education. He was married Jan. 8,1858, to Miss Phrebe A. Heckman, by whom he has 6 children, viz.: Milton A., Levi, Sarah A., William H., John W. and Benjamin T. Mr. Burket owns 90 acres of valuable land and is engaged in farming and stock-raising. In politics he is a Republican. Mr. and Mrs. Burket are members of the German Ba})tist (or Dunkard) Church.

James A. Biirt is a native of England, and was born May 12, 1832. His parents, John and Harriet! Parsons) Burt, emigrated to Lake county, Ohio, in 183(3. He was a hard-working boy and had no educational advantages. His education he lias obtained by his own exertions. He began to work at the butcher's trade when 16 years old, at which lie still is engaged. He came to Mishawaka in 1857, and in 1858 married Miss Edith Crofoot, by whom he has had 2 children; one of these, Milroy, is living. He owns a large first-class meat market and is doing a good business.

WiUiam W. Butterworth, M. D., located in Mishawaka in June, 1847, for the purpose of practicing his profession. He came an entire stranger in the beginning of his manhood. "The town then was in the height of its prosperity," with a larger manufacturing interest than an\' other place in all Northern Indiana. The medical field was then occupied by a strong corps of educated and popular physicians, as well as by a number of "root-and-herb," and "steam" doctors. Fresh IVom his pupilage and medical lectures, Dr. Butterworth "flung out his sign," and with great selfreliance, ambition and industry sought the confidence and patronage of the people. He had come to stay, and was a success, almost from the beginning, in getting a lair share of business and good patronage. The prominent physicians of Mishawaka then were Drs. Styles, Vaugiin. Badger and Eddy, all now deceased. They were well advanced in medical science. The latter named gentleman afterward became distinguished in State and national politics. Until 1861 and during the war. Dr. Butterworth always maintained a first-class rank in his profession in Northern Indiana. In 1S62 he, with a few other medical men from different parts of the State, was commissioned by Gov. Morton, by authority of the War Department, to visit Indiana troops in the field and hospital, then sulfering so terribly from typhoid disease, and in that capacity rendered efiicient aid at the battle-field and camp of Pittsburg Landing. In the summer of 1862 he accepted a commission as Surgeon of the 09th Reg. Ind. Vol., and served as such to the close of the war. The last year of his service he was detailed for hospital work, principally at Marietta, Ga., and Alexandria, Va. Dr. Butterworth is now President of the St. Joseph Medical Society, and President of the St. Joseph Valley District Medical Society, composed of doctors from the counties of Elkhart, St. Josepli and La Porte, Ind., and Cass and Berrien counties, Mich. The Doctor's papers read before medical societies were always among the best, some of which were published in the Peninsular (Mich.) Medic'il Journal, and the Lancet, of Cincinnati, Ohio. He is a terse, expressive writer and public speaker, though never with much ambition or self-confidence in the latter capacit}'. In his writing and speaking, he is very sure to leave a "web" for hostile or friendly criticism.

In 1872 Dr. Butterworth's name was favorably mentioned in several papei's as a candidate for Congress; but he felt unable to afford the expense necessary for the uncertain race, and lie therefore declined the proposed honor. He is a Republican, and represented his county in the Legislature of Indiana from 1870 to 1874 with distinction. At the present time he is measurably indifferent to professional work, and devotes much time to tiie management of his farming interests.

He was born in Warren county, Ohio, in 1824, and comes of a sturdy family of Virginia. When a boy the family emigrated to La Porte county, Ind., where he learned much business, common sense and economy by farm work. He received a good commonschool education, and was fitted for college and entered tin- .V^liury

University, wliere one year was spent, after which he studied medicine and graduated at the Indiana Medical Gollege. He subsequently took a partial course of lectures at the University Medical College, of JS'ew York.

The Doctor has been twice married, and his present wife, formerly Mrs. S. E. Kennedy, late of Mississippi, is a daughter of the Hon. Milo Smith. He has two sons and a daughter, a nice home, and a fair share of earth's treasures, and now, in excellent liealth, is taking,- so far as possible, his comforts " as he goes along."

Geo. V. Byrkit was born in Penn tp. Feb. 20, 1837, and is a son of Edmund and Catharine (Bumgardner) Byrkit, natives of North Carolina. The former emigrated to Ohio with his parents when quite small, and the latter came first to Kentucky, then to Oliio. Mr. Byrkit "was reared on a farm, and received his education in a cabin made of round logs, covered witii clapboards, with slab benches for seats, a punciieon floor, and the light was admitted through a window, one light in height and extending the entire length of the room. His first teachers were of tlie " ox-gad persuasion," and wielded a large hickory withe. He was married in May, 1860, to Miss Jane Boles, b}' whom he had one child, Jane, now a graduate of the Mishawaka iiigh school. Mrs. Byrkit died June 30, 1S62. Mr. B. again married in 1863, this time ]\[rs. Susan Curtis, and the^' have one child, Edmund B. Mr. B. owns 216 acres of valuable land, and resides on sec. 14, where he is engaged in farming and stock-raising. Mr. Byrkit's father came to this county in 1830, when tiiere were numerous Indians in the county. He then selected his location, planted some ap])lc seeds, and retuiTjed and brought his family the following year. Tiie first trip he made on horseback. He was born in the year 1800, and died in 1873.

Albert Cass w^as born in Providence, Quebec, Jan. 22, J 815. His parents were Thomas and Anna (Sherborn) Cass, natives of New Hampshire, who settled in Quebec about 1809. He was reared on a farm, and received a limited education in the common schools, attending school three months in the winter and working the rest of the year. In 1836 he came to Steuben county, Ind.. and in 1837 to this county. He was the first one to start a wagon manufactory in Mishawaka. He continued in this business with William Wood for 11 3'ears. Pie was married in 1811 to Miss Jane Peliinger, of Ontario county, N. Y. They had 3 children, Nancy M., Sarah A. and Carrie M. He engaged in farming for the most part since he quit wagon-making. He is interested in a drug-store in Mishawaka. In politics he is a thorough Kepublican.

WiUiani M. Clurh was born in Colbourn count}-, Canada, Feb. 11, 183.5, and is a son of Seth and Caroline (Merriman) Clark, natives of Connecticut, who moved to Canada in 1838. Seth Clark was a chair-maker and painter. He made the first chair in Mishawaka. He located on a farm near Elkhart, and died March 21, 1878. William.AI. was educated in Mishawaka; was employed at the age of 15 as clerk for Mr. Judson, a merchant, for several j-ears; engaged in business for himself in Mishawaka in 1863, forming a partnership with A. M. Wing. Mr. Whitson bouglit Wing's interest in 1864, and in 1861) the tirm of Clark & Whitson sold out their store, and are now engaged in banking.

Henry Crofoot was born in Lake county, Ohio, July 8, 1830, and is a son of Vernon and Diantlia (Fuller) Crofoot, tiie former a native of New York, and the latter of Pennsylvania. lie was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools. He came to this county with his parents about 1840; engaged in burning charcoal for some time; in 1853 he went by ship to California, and returned the same j'ear. He tlien went to Southern Indiana to burn charcoal on a salary of $10 a month, when ordinary wages for that kind of labor was from $12 to $15 per month. He returned in the tall, bought 160 acres of timber and jjroceeded at once to clear 125 acres of it, utilizing the timber for saw-logs, wood, etc. He was married Sept. 18, 1856, to Miss Nancy Pruner, by wiioni he had 11 children; 10 are living, namely, Schuyler, Hester, Clara, Viola, Willard, Linnie, Olive, Loiia, Vernon and A. C. Mr. Crofoot is now engaged in farming and stock-raising on sec. 4, owning 240 acres (jf valuable land. In politics he is a Greenbacker.

Robert H. Crooks, fanner and stock-raiser, sec. 28; was born in Holmes county, Oliio, Nov. 15, 1834, and is a son of James and Mary Crooks, natives of Pennsylvania. He came with his parents to Noble county, Ind., in 1841, where he remained seven years. They then removed to La Porte county and remained until 1855, when they came to this count3^ Robert H. went to Illinois in 1857 and worked on a farm. He was married in April, 1860, to Miss Emily Vesey, daughter of George Vesey, of this tp. They have 4 children: Olive A., Lucius M., Mary E. and GracieM. Mr. Crooks has been very successful in business, and now owns 200 acres of valuable land, which is well improved. His barn, 42|^x64 feet, cost him $1,200, and his house was erected at an expeme of $2,000.

Alex. Curtis was born in this county Nov. 25, 1834, and is a son of Jiunes and Nancy Curtis. He was reared on a farm and received an education in the common schools of tiiis county. In 1857 he married Miss Catharine Eggins, and they ha/e had 5 children: Flora E., Martha J. (deceased), James D., William W. and Alex. B. Mr. Curtis removed to Fulton county, Ind., where he resided one and a iialf years. He is engaged in farming and stock-raisiiiij on sec. 29, and owns 90 acres of valuable land. Mr. and Mrs. Curtis and their daughter Flora are worthy members of the Baptist Church. In politics he votes as his iatiier did, who was a Jacksonian Democrat.

Edwin Curtis was born in Elkhait county, Ind., Dec. 6, 1836, but lias always resided in this county. He labored hard and endur-jd many privations, as all pioneer boys do. He went to California in 1859. and returned in 1860, and the same year went to Pike's Peak; in 1877 he went to the Black Hills, a»d returned. He was married in 1806, to Miss Lucetta Mason, a native of Painesville, Ohio. They have had 3 children: Charlie, Edna, and Hattie (deceased). Mr. Cnrtis is engaged in farming and stock-raising, on sec. 21, and owns 120 acres of land. His father, James Curtis (deceased), was born in Miami county, Ohio, Jan. 17, 1807. He had no educational advantages, but was al-.vays a hard worker. He came to this county in 1831, when the Indians were numerous, and the timber thick and heav}'. The noted chief Raccoon was a frequent caller at his residence, and was buried on the farm of Mr. Curtis, near his house. A son of Mr. Curtis, knowing the exact locality, many years afterward exhumed the skeleton and procured the jawbone of that noted chief, which is now in Mishawaka. Mr. Curtis was married Sept. 11, 1829, to Miss Nancy Byrkit, by whom he had 11 cliildren, 10 sons and one daughter. He was a highly respected citizen; and there was one thing connected with his life of which but few can boast, - /. e., he never had a lawsuit. He died Jan. 12, 1878.

John L. Dayhnff w&i born in Sandusky'count}', O., Nov. 27, 1836, and his parents were Moses and Hannah Dayhuft', natives of Maryland and of German descent. Mr. Dayhuff was brought up on a farm, and received a common-school education. He was but seven years old when his father died. He came to this county in 1848, and was married in March, 1859, to Miss Mary Varney, by whom he lias had 8 children ; of these, 5 are living, viz. : Emma J., Minnie B., AVilliam A., John B. and diaries E. Mr. D. has engaged largely in putting in wells and cisterns, and in ISfJi he was employed in the sale of pumps. He began poor and now has a good home, with all the necessary comforts of life. He now has his second wife, whom he married in June, 1875. They have one child, Lulu.

Harlow Dodge, deceased, was born in Oneida county, N. Y., in 1815. The early part of his boyhood was spent upon a farm. He began as an apprentice at the trade of millwright when he was 14 3'ears of age. He came to Michigan in 1836, and to this county in 1840. He was a contractor on the L. S. & M. S. R. R., having built all the depots for this road between Bristol and La Porte, and between Elkhart and Toledo. He was married Jan. 23, 1845, to iliss Elizabeth Luce, by whom he has had 5 children; of these, 4 are living, viz.: ]\[ary, Wallace H., Nellie A. and William W. Mrs. Dodge's father was Sprowel Luce. For some years prior to liis death, Mr. Dodge was engaged in manufacturing in Mishawaka.

Wallace W. Dodge, son of the preceding, was born in Mishawaka, July 10, 1849; he was educated at Notre Dame, Ind. He engaged in the hardware business in Mishawaka for 13 years. July 13, 1870, he was married to Miss Hattie Vessey, daughter ot J. M. Vessey. He is' manager and proprietor of the Dodge Manufactory already mentioned.

Pennsylvania. The former was a glass-blower, as was his father and all of his uncles, who lived to a very old age. Mr. E.'s grandmother died at tlie age of 99 years, after living 30 days without food or drink. She was not sick, but simply lost her desire for food and drink, and to live any longer in the world. Mr. Eberhart was married April 21, 184:7, to Miss Sarah A. Boyd, by whom he had 9 children; of these, 4 are living, viz.: Flora, James, Frederick and Everett G. Mr. E. came to this county with his parents in 18.36, where he has since resided. He owns an interest in the Ripple Mills at Mishawaka, already described. His mother still lives, at the advanced age of 80 years, and is very spry.

John H. Eberhart, brother of the preceding, was born in Yates county, N. Y., Oct. 8, 1825. His educational advantages were very limited, there being but three months' school in the winter seasons. He came with his parents to this county in 1836; they had started for Illiuois; John took sick, which caused them to stop here for a season. They were well pleased with the country, and remained. He was married in August, 1850, to Miss Mary A. Pembroke, and they have had 2 children, both deceased. Mrs. Eberhart died in October, 1857, and he again married in December, 1859, this time Mrs. ^Mary McCan, by whom he has 2 children: Hattie L. and Nellie M. He is one of the principal stockholders in Ripple Mills, at Mishawaka.

Jacob Eby, farmer, sec. 4; P. O., Elkhart; was born in Waterloo county. Province of Ontario, Oct. 18, 1816, and is a son of David and Elizabeth (Bechtal) Eby, natives of Lancaster county, Pa., who went to Ontario about 1800. He was brought up in a new country, and hence his educational advantages were very limited. He wore boots made of untanned leather, or raw hide and buckskin pants, in liis boyhood days. He then could see 100 times as many Indians as whites. He chopped logs from 100 acres of heavy-timbered land liimself, and helped clear 300 acres ready for tlie plow. He was married April 7, ISIO, to Miss Polly Bingeman, by whom he has had 8 children; 7 are living, viz.: Enoch, Seth, Saruch (same as Abraham's grandfather^ Jacob, J(jhn, Joseph and Noah. Thename of the deceased was Simon. Mr. Eby came to this county in 1861, where he is engaged in farming and stock-raising, at which he has been very successful. He owns 2s2 acres of valuable land.

Jacob Eckstein was born in Baden, Germany, Feb. 12, 1837. His parents were John and Eva Eckstein; the former was a cabinetmaker, and the subject of this sketch early learned the use of tools. He received a common-school education, completed his trade, and emigrated to America in 1851. He came to Randolph, Portage county, Ohio, first, wliere he remained four years. He then came tu Woodland, this county, remaining there one year, and moved from there to South Bend, where he resided 18 months. He spent nine months in Cass county, Mich., when, in 1861, he removed to Mishawaka, where he still resides, engaged in the raanutacture ot furniture. He was married May 10, 1864, to Miss Mary A. Haubert, by whom he has had 8 children; of these, Tare livin,^, namely: Jacob, Francis X., Gertrude, Peter, Nicholas, Wiiheimina and Helena. The name of the deceased child was William. Mr. p]ekstein is leader of the Mishawaka Cornet Band, and a worthy member of the Catholic Church.

FAom EJler, farmer, sec. 29; was born in Miami county, Ohio, Sept. 14, 1826, and is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth EUer, natives of North Carolina. He was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools. He came with his parents to this tp. in 1831, where he endured the privations that pioneer boys are heir to; was married in 1849, to Miss Sobrina Patterson, by whom he has had 2 children, one now living, Warren A. The deceased's name was Charles R. Mr. Eller owns 250 acres of land, and is engaged in farming and stock-raising. In politics he is a Republican.

James S. Ellis, undertaker, Mishawaka, was born in the town of Starkey, Yates county, N. Y., Dec. 20, 1843, and is a son of Stephen and Mary (Schenck) Ellis, natives also of the Empire State. He was educated in Penn Yan Seminary, and at earl}' manhood engaged with his father in the undertaker's and furniture business in Dundee, N. Y.; came to Mishawaka in 1870; followed cabinetmaking until 1877, when he embarked again as undertaker and furniture dealer, repairer, etc. He was married in 1873.

John Ernst, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 27; was born on St. Valentine's day, 1835, and is a son of Martin and Christina Ernst, natives of Baden-Baden, Germany. He was reared on a farm, and educated in a common school. He went to Canada in 1840, where he engaged in farming until 1862, when he came to this county. He married Miss Magdalene Bucliheit, in February, 1864. They have had 7 children, of whom 6 are living, viz.: Mary, Christina, Leo A., Rosa, Matilda and Frank. Mr. and Mrs. Ernst are worthy members of the Catholic Church.

George Eufzler, sec. 26. This enterprising farmer was born in Jackson county, Ohio, June 18, 1829, and is a son of George and Elizabeth (Holmeshead) Entzler, who removed with their family to this county in 1831. Mr. Eutzler was brought up on a farm, and received a common-school education. He was married April 6, 1853, to Miss Anna Vesev; they have had 3 children, 2 living, viz.: Elizabeth and Enos. The deceased's name was Erastus. Mr. Eufzler has a fine farm of 560 acres, and as a raiser of small grain, has been eminently successful. He is an honored member of the order of Freemasons at Mishawaka. His father died Jan. 1, 1861, and his mother lived until Nov. 5, 1876.

John Feiten was born in Germany Feb. 4, 1840, where, when he was an infant, his father died; he was reared on a farm an(1 educated in the village of Demerath, Prussia. He came to Mishawaka in 1853, and without attending an English school, ho has obtained a fair English education, and writes a very legible hand. At 'the age of 17 years he learned the business of chair-maker; this he pursued for eight years, and in 1865 he en^siged in the furniture and undertaking business in Mislmwaka, in which he is still engaged, and is doing a good business. He manufactures a splendid rocking-chair of his own invention. In 1872 his property and stock was burned, but he still prospers. He was man-ied in 1866 to Miss Isabella Black, by whom he had 4 children, viz.: Nellie, Gertrude, Eugene A. and Mary B. In 1873 Mr. Feiten bnilt a new house, valued at $1,400.

Rev. H. J. Finch was born in Esse.\ county, N. Y., April 26, 1836, and is a son of Hiram and Eliza Finch, the former a native of New Hampshire, and the latter of Massachusetts. Mr. Finch was reared on a farm and received but a common-school education, save that which he obtained through self-culture and hard study. He came to this county with his parents in 1846; was married Oct. 8, 1857, to Miss Jane Antrim, by whom he had one child, Olive; Mrs. Finch died June 28, 18o0, and he again married Oct. 19, 1861, this time Miss Sarah Fuson, by whom he has had 7 children; 6 are living, viz.: Isaac B., Norman E., Lucinda J., Eliza V., L. Landora and John W. At different times Mr. Finch felt called to the work of the gospel ministry, and accordingly, in 1868, he began preparing himself for the work. He began by supplying the pulpit at Sumption Prairie, before either having license or being ordained. He held a series of meetings at Sumption Prairie the following winter, and many souls were converted and added to the Church. His second series of meetings was held at Jamestown, near Elkhart, Ind., and with like results. He then became convinced that God had a work for him to do. and he more thoroughly prepared himself, and in 1872 received license to preach, and was ordained in 1873. He took the pastorate of the Mishawaka Baptist Church in 1876, which position he still holds besides having charge of three other Churches. His labors are very great, preaching three times each Sabbath.

M. M. Fisher was born in Williams county, Ohio, August, 1848, and is a son of P. C. and Lydia Fisher, the former a native of Ohio, and the latter of Virginia. Mr. Fisher was reared on a farm and educated in the common school and the normal high school of Bryan, Ohio. Bt the age of 16 he entered the army, Co. A, 189th O. V. I., and served until the close of the war. He came to Mishawaka in 1870, and the following year, Dec. 25, married Miss Libbie A. Miller, by whom he has one child, Irabelle. When Mr. Fisher came here he engaged as a laborer for the Perkins Windmill and Ax Company until 1873, when he became one of the joint-stock company that was incorporated at that time, and is now General Superintendent of the manufactory. He is a zealous worker in the cause of temperance. Mr. and Mrs. Fisher are worthy members of the Presbyterian Church.

Jacob Fulnier, farmer, sec. 3, was born in Stark county, Ohio, Dec. 12, 1843, and is a son of Martin and Mary Fulmer, deceased, natives of Germany; he was but eight years old when his father died; was reared on a farm and received a common-school education; came witli his parents to this county in 1850; worked very hard in clearing away the hrusli and logs to make the farm. He was married March 27, 1866, to Miss Louisa E. Beiger, by whom he has 5 children, viz.: Ledean, Clarence W., Jolin H., Martin D. and Jacob H. Mr. Fulmer is engaged in farming and owns 135 acres of valuable land. Mr. and Mrs. F. are members of the Evangelical Association.

J. M. Galor was born in Kensselaer county, N. Y., Aug. 5, 1809; he was but two years old when his father died; came with his mother and step-father to Rising Sun, Ohio county, Ind., in 1815, and to Dearborn county, Ind., in 1816; in 1835 he came to tliis county, and drove the first wagon south of Mishawaka into the heavy timber, where he labored hard and long in clearing up a farm, thinking, as others did in tliose days, t!iat the prairie land was worthless. He also engaged in the collier business for some time; as there was a blast furnace at Mishawaka, he found ready market for all his timber that he turned into charcoal. He was married Nov. 18, 1830, to Miss Cynthia Crouch, by whom he had one child, Eleanor, who became the wife of Daniel B. Jewell, and afterward died, leaving one daughter, Luzetta. Mrs. Galor died Sept. 9, 1832, and Mr. Galor again married Sept. 26, 1833, Azubah Ferris. They have had 3 children, 2 living: Albert and Sarah A. Mr. Galor is now living a quiet, retired life in Mishawaka.

F. X. Ganser is a native of Baltimore, Md., and was born June 14, 1850. His parents were Joseph and Anna Ganser, natives of Germany, who removed with their family from Maryland to Pennsylvania in 1851, and to Mishawaka in 1861. Mr. G. worked in the cabinet shops in Mishawaka for 12 years. He then engaged for a time as a dry-goods clerk for Bingham & Hudson. He was married in 1872 to Miss Catharine Zuber, by whom he has had 3 children, 2 living: Lawrence and Otto. Mr. Ganser runs a first-class saloon and billiard hall, and does a large business. No drunkenness is allowed around his establishment.

Joseph Ganser, Jr. This enterprising young druggist was born at St. Mary's, Pa., Nov. 13, 1848. He received his education at St. Mary's and at Philadelphia. He came to Mishawaka in J861, where he engaged as a dry-goods clerk for Whitson. He bought Dick's drng-storein 1873, which he still runs, and carries a stock of $3,500 in drugs, paints, oils, wall-paper, notions, books, etc., and is doing a large business. He speaks the German language, and being a Catholic he gets the trade from the German and Irish citizens. He was married July 27, 1871, to Miss Christina Henrichs, by whom he has had 6 children, 5 living: August, Leo, Cecelia, Edith and Anna. Mr. G. is a musician and sings in the choir.

Uistory Of St. Joseph Coukty. M&

his name. Mr. Gavlor was reared on a farm and received his education in the comnion-sciiools and at Carlisle College, of New Carlisle, this county. He early learned to labor on the farm, which occupation he pursued until IbT-l. Was married Oct. 31, 1865, to Miss Mary A. Keiifer, by whom he has 4 children, Vickie, John L., Ralph and Mabel E. In 1874 Mr. Gaylor removed to Mishawaka, where he engaged in the grocery business, and the manufacture of wood pulp. The former he discontinued in the spring of 18S0, but continues the latter. He is superintendent of the pulp manufactory in South Bend, and also president of the one located at Mishawaka. He has held several offices of trust at the hands ot the people; has been City Trustee for Mishawaka for the past three years, and is the present Trustee for Penn tp.

Albert J. Gernhart was born in Worcester, Mass., June 17, 1855, and is a son of Matthias and Catharine Gernhart, of this tp., who removed with their family to this county in December, 1855. The subject of this notice was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools of this county. In 1879 he engaged in butchering in company with his brother, and they do a large business and furnish the people of Mishawaka and vicinity with the best of meats.

Robert Gill'dand was born in Seneca, Ontario county, N. Y., Aug. 1, 1822. His parents were Thomas and Jane (Carson) Gilliland. He was brought up on a farm, and was early employed in lumbering, as this was a part of his father's vocation. He came to Hudson, Mich., in 1863, where he worked in a spoke factory for six and one-half years. He was married Oct. 10, 1844, to Miss Caroline Torrance, by whom he has had 8 children; of these, 7 are living: Ezra T., James F., Wm. T., Maria A., Agnes O., Emma J. and Donna B. The first three are connected with the telephone manufactory at Indianapolis, and Ezra T. was a co-laborer with Edison for two and one-half years, rendering him valuable aid. Mr. Gilliland owns an interest in Edison's electric pen.

James B. Greene, M. Z>., was born in the town of Fremont (then Lower Sandu&ky), Ohio, May 29, 1846, and is a son of Judge John L. Greene, deceased, formerly Judge of the Northwestern Ohio Circuit for many years, and who fell dead on his way to the courtroom, Nov. 8, 1879. His motl'.er was Marie Du Combe, of French birth. Dr. Greene is the 7th of 12 children, all living, and "scattered from the Atlantic to the Pacitic." At 13 years of age the Doctor went to learn the watch-maker's trade, but remained only two years. At 15 years of age he was ap])ointed Deputy CouTity Recorder of his native county, with tiie sole charge of the office. While in that capacity he began the study of medicine. In the fa 1 of 1863 he entered the army in the 3d Ohio Cavalrj", as a private, and in one month ho was transferred to the ])ay department of the Army of the Mississippi. In January, 1864, he was promoted IIos})ital Steward, and in July, 1865, he was commissioMed Assistant Surgeon of the 137th U. S. Colored Iiifantiy. He graduated from the Cleveland Medical College in 1867. When he began practice in Mishawaka he had no money or liorse. His proceeds for the first year's practice were $56. His practice now amounts to over $2,000 annually. In 1874 he was nominated by the Republican party for Recorder of this county. The Doctor has paid security debts to the amount of nearly $3,000. In 1870 he published a work on " Diseases of the Rectum," which reached an issue of 5, 000 copies. He is a member of tlie St. Joseph Valley District Medical Association, and also of the Elkhart Medical Association. He was twice elected delegate to the meeting of the American Association, and twice to that of the State Association. lie was married Jan. 9, 1868, to Miss Mary E. Hagey, and they have had 4 children, 3 of whom are living: Philip, Rosetta and Grace. The Doctor has acquired the German language himself, save 20 lessons which he took in 1879, and has thus gained large practice among the Germans.

James F. Grimes, M. D., is a native of Frederick county, Md., and was born April 13, 1825. His father, James Grimes, was a miller in Maryland, but abandoned his occupation on account of failing health, and engaged in farming. The subject of this notice was brought by his parents to Seneca county, Ohio, in 1833: was reared on a farm and educated in Tiffin, Ohio. In 1852 he graduated from the Eclectic Medical College at Cincinnati, Ohio. He came to Mishawaka in 1853 and began the practice of medicine. He then had $9 in money and no horse, and was obliged to attend to practice on foot. He has won a largo patronage, and now has considerable property. He was married in 1851 to Miss Caroline E. Harris, by whom he has had 6 children; of these, 4 are living, viz.: Rebecca E.. Harriet E., John H. and Mary.

Silvanus Hall, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 5, was born in Maine July 16, 1815, son of John and Data (Kno.x) Hall, natives of Massachusetts. He was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools of Dearborn county, Ind., where his parents removed in 1822. Tliey, however, left Maine in 1818, residing in Cincinnati, Ohio, for four years. Mr. Hall was married in 1835 to Miss Eliza Matthews, a native of Maine, who was brought to this State by her parents in infancy. This union has been blessed with 9 children, of whom 8 are living, viz. : Salathiel, Rhoda A., Jonas, Sarah, Thaddeus, EfFa J., Susan M. and Ezra D. In his younger days Mr. Hall worked at the blacksmith's trade for three years; he also followed boating on the Ohio and Mississippi rivers for three years. In 184 '3 he had visited every town between Pittsburg and New Orleans. In 1845 he removed with his family to this tp., where he still resides.

Wm. Harris was born in Yates county, N. T., Dec. 12, 1815, and is a son of Steven and Susan Harris, also natives of New York, in which State the former died; the latter died here. Mr. Harris came to this county in 1854, and settled on the Mishawaka and Elkhart road, where he kept travelers for several years. He was married Dec. 5, 1839, to Miss Loretta Hall, by whom he had 2 children, George (deceased) and John E. His first wife died and he again married, this time Miss Priscilla Hall, sister of his first wife. By her he has -i children: Libbie, Steven, Robert and Henry. He buried his second wife, and married a .third time in 1875, Mrs. Flutilla Rogers, who is a worthy member of the Baptist Church. Mr. H. is a member of the M. E. Churcli.

Peter Haubert was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., Nov. 6, 1844, and is a son of Nicholas and Catharine (Blaicer) Haubert, natives of Germany, who removed with their family to Illinois in 1854; they afterward returned to Mishawaka. Mr. Haubert clerked for business men here until 1871, when he opened a grocery upon his own responsibility. He sold his grocery store in January, 1872, and the following December he established a restaurant, which he now runs, and does a good business. He also has a soda fountain in connection with the restaurant. He was married in 1871 to Miss Mary C. Black.

Peter Hendershott, deceased, was born in Pennsylvania June 11, 1813. His parents removed to Harrison county, Ohio, when he was quite small. He was reared on a farm, and as the country was new he had no educational advantages, but learned to read and write, etc., by his own eftbrts. When a young man he learned the carpenter's trade, which vocation he pursued for the most part during the remainder of his life. He was married in June, 18:3-4, to Miss Mary B. Merriman, by whom he had D children; 7 of these are living, viz.: William M., Mary E., Patience M., James T., John H., Almira F. and David B. He came to this county in 1852, resided in South Bend 18 months, when he removed into the country. After residing in various localities he purchased a farm in this tp. in '57, and settled upon it the same year, where he died in July, 1874. He was a member of tlie United Bretliren Churcli prior to his removal to this county. His son, William M., who is a subscriber for this work, is taking care of his mother and farming the home place. He was born in Wayne county, Ohio, March 20, 1836. He early learned the use of carpenter's tools and worked at that trade about 20 years; for the last 10 years he has been farming. July 9, 1879, he married Miss Rachel, daughter of Widow Hulderman.

Henry D. Higgias was born in Onondaga county, N. Y., March 15, 1832, and is a son of William and Hannah (Avery) Higgins. The former was once a wagon-maker, at which Henry D. worked some in his younger days, but was a carpenter and painter by trade. He married in April, 1846, Miss Nancy Barnes, by whom he has had 4 children; of these, 2 are living, viz.: Sarah and Susie. He came to this county in 1846: engaged in painting four years, and in 1850 he went to California, but returned in 1851. In 1864 he engaged in dentistry in Mishawaka, in company with his son Charles, who was accidentally shot by an employee June 19, 1873. Mr. Higgins owns and carries on the jewelry store in Mishawaka, and is doing a good business. He also has a large sura of money at interest.

Aaron Hoover was born in Ohio Jan. 21, 1810. His parents were James and Elizabeth (Knee) Hoover, with whom he came to "Wayne county, Ind., about 1819. As he had to work hard, and his parents were poor, he had no educational advantages. He came , to this county in 1834, where he has since resided. He was married in 1829, to Miss Charity Harris, by whom he had 9 children; of these but 4 are living, viz.: PhosbeA., Henry, William and Charity. Mrs. H. died April 7, 1852. Mr. Hoover has since buried two other wives, and now has his fourth wife, who was Mrs. Fannie Keasey. He is a iarmer and stock-raiser, but since January, 1869, has been retired, and resides in Mishawaka. Mr. and Mrs. Hoover are both worthy members of the M. E. Church.

Albert HudsottwAa born in West Hartford, Conn., Dec. 1,1815, and is a son of Benjamin and Harriet (Dickinson) Hudson, the former a native of Massachusetts, and the latter of Connecticut. The early part of his boyhood was spent on a farm. He went to Western New York in 1825 or '26, where he learned the shoemaker's trade; came to this county in 1835; engaged in shoe-making in Mishawaka for nearly 40 years; built Hudson's block, which was destroyed in 1872 by the fire; he rebuilt soon after. He is now president of the St. Joseph Manufacturing Co. He was associated with Mr. Perkins, of this place, in the manufacture of windmills for five years. He was married in Brockport, N. Y., Jan. 1, 1835, to Miss Louisa Tuttle, and they had 8 children, 4 living: George R., now treasurer of the Milburn Wagon Company, at Toledo, Ohio; Hattie L., Carrie L. and Emma, now Mrs. Col. Bingham. Mr. Hudson began little or no capital, and has made all his wealth by his own exertions.

Harris E. HurJhut. Being an old settler in this county, Mr. Hurlbut is entitled to more than a passing notice in our county history. He was born Dec. 11, 1810, in Hartford, Conn., and is a Bon of Ebenezer and Fannie (Brewster) Hurlbut. The latter was a descendant of Mr. Brewster, of Mayflower renown. Mr. H. was educated at Hartford. He went to Buffalo, N. Y., in 1826, and clerked for Mr. Flawg, a cousin of his, for three years. In 1829 he went to Kochester, N. Y., and to Onondaga county, N. Y., in 1831; learned the tinner's ti'ade; came to this count}' and purchased 160 acres of timber land; worked at the tinner's trade for ten years; served as Justice of the Peace from 1840 to 1861 ; was elected by the Republican party to the Indiana Legislature from this county in 1843-'4; was Postmaster from 1849 to 1853; practiced law in Mishawaka for 24 j-ears; in 1874 retired from active business, having accumulated a large fortune, and is now living in comfort.

David 0. Hutchinson was born in Willoughby, Ohio, Sept. 4, 1819. His parents were William and Sally (Bond) Hutchinson; he was reared and educated in AVilloughby, and there married Miss Harriet Woodard, by whom he has 2 children: John and Hale. He engaged in farming for a time in Ohio, but is also a painter by trade. He went to Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, in 1850, where he engaged in painting, and a portion of the time he was employed in a picture gallery. He came to Mishawaka in 1860, and has executed large contracts of painting, to the entire satisfaction of his employers, at times employing frum seven to ten hands to assist him. He made graining a specialty. Is now retired, having accumulated a handsome amount of this world's goods.

S. I. H. Ireland. This old and respected citizen of Mishawaka was born in Bourbon county, Kentucky, June 28, 1807. His parents were Andrew and Elizabeth Ireland. His early educational advantages were very limited, there being none but subscription schools in the locality where he spent his boyhood days. He removed with his parents in 1816, to the heavy timber of Preble county, Ohio, where his father died in 1822, which threw a great responsibility upon him. He was married in 1828 to Miss Sally Ireland, by whom he has had .5 children; but 2 are living: Mary and Clarissa. He came to this county in 1831, and has witnessed many changes, and noted many reminiscences of the past, some of which he has related to ns for insertion in this work; and for this he has our hearty thanks. He worked hard in clearing away the brush and logs on his land, and followed farming until 1851. Pie has since engaged in various avocations. At one time, in the early days of Mishawaka, he was salesman for the St. Joseph Iron Company (^now St. Joseph Manufacturing Company), located at this place. He was also auctioneer for some years. Mr. and Mrs. Ireland and their two daughters are members of the Christian Church at Mishawaka.

Ed. A. Jernegan, editor and proprietor of the Mishawaka Enterprise, was born in La Porte, Ind., Jan. 27, 1846, and is a son of Thomas Jernegan, editor of the Michigan City Enterprise. His mother is a native of Nantucket Island, and his father of Martha's Vineyard. Thej' came to South Bend about 1840. Mr. Storey, now of the Chicago Time.s, was then editor and ])roprietor of the Mishawaka Tocsin, which press Mr. Jernegan purchased and removed to La Porte, where he published the Tocsin for about two years. During this time, at La Porte, Mr. Ed. A. Jernegan was born. He then removed it to Michigan City and began to publish the Enterprise, which he continues to do. The subject of this notice there learned the printing business. He served 11 months in the late war, in Co. K, 73d Ind. Vol. Inf., where he was transferred to the navy department, on steamer Commodore Varney, where he acted as Paymaster's Clerk. He returned home and entered Co. D, 138th Ind. Vol. Inf , in which he served but live months. He became assistant editor of the Michigan City Enterprise, which position he held for four years. He was married Sept. 6, 1869, to Miss Nannie C. Sherman, by whom he has had -4 children; of these, 3 are living, viz.: Sherman, May and Ralph. He purchased the Mishawaka Enterprise press in 1872, and although beginning under very unfavorable circumstances he has made a valuable paper, and has a handsome support from the people of St. Joseph county. His press was destroyed by fire the same year he began, but he has succeeded in procuring another. He does all kinds of job work in the best of style.

Aaron Jones was born in German tj)., this county, Sept. 9, 1838, and is a son of Samuel Jones, a native of North Carolina, who came to this county in the spring of 1830, and settled in German tp., and who, after he labored hard for several years, died in 1850. Aaron, our subject, was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools and at Franklin College, Franklin county, Ind. He also attended Antioch College at Yellow Springs, Ohio, for some time. He was married in 1860 to Miss Maggie W. Wiley, by whom he has had 5 children; 2 living, Aaron and Mary. He owns over 400 acres of land in this county, and about 100 acres in Iowa. He has been very successful as a farmer and stock-raiser, and resides on sec. 32, Penn tp. He is master of the State Grange, of the order of Patrons of Husbandry, and is a very prominent man in the locality in which he resides.

Daniel Jiidic, son of Samuel and Catharine Judie, deceased, was born in this tp. March 22, 1842. His parents were natives of Pennsylvania, and came to this county in a very early day. Mr. Judie was bronght up on a farm, and educated in the common schools; was married in 1867 to Miss Margaret, daughter of John W. May. She is a native of Germany, and a member of the Lutheran Cliurch. He owns 90 and she owns 44 acres of valuable land. Mr. Judie has made his start in the world all by his own exertions. For several years in his early life he operated a threshing-machine. He served three years in the late war, in Co. F, 29th Keg't Ind. Vol. Inf , and participated in many of the most bloody battles. His cap was shot from his head in the battle of Shiloh.

Samuel Judie was born in this tp. Dec. 17, 1836, and is a son of Samuel and Catharine Judie (dec), who came to this county in 1831, and labored hard in preparing the wa}' for tlie prosperity of future generations. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm and educated at Dutch island in this county, a school usually taught by inferior teachers in those days, and which was mostly taught by snbscription. In the early part of his manhood Mr. Judie engaged in farming and operating a threshing-machine. He was married in 1860 to Miss Martha, daughter of Daniel Yroman, of this tp. They have had 6 children, of whom 3 are living, Hattie, Emma and Pardon. Mr. J. is engaged in farming and stock-raising on sec. 12, and owns 130 acres of valuable land.

Stephen H. Judhins was born in Sullivan county, N. H., Aug. 26, 1808, and is a son of Stephen and Anna Judkins (dec), also natives of New Hampshire. He was raised to work in the wagonmaker's shop. As soon as he was able to handle a hatchet and saw he was put to work. He followed this business for the most part until 1850. He came to Mishawaka in 1837. He was married Oct. 8, 1834, to Miss Phoebe A. Simons, by whom he has had 4 children; of these, 2 are living: William H. and Malvina (now Mrs. L. F. Cole, of Neenah, Wisconsin). In 1859 he engaged in the grocery business, which he still carries on. He lost $2,700 in the tire of 1872. He carries a stock of $3,500 in groceries, provisions, etc., and is doing a good business.

^1. F . K'izer was born in Wayne county, Ohio, Oct. 6, 1825, and is a son of Peter and Catharine Kizer, natives of Pennsylvania, who emigrated to Ohio about 1818. Mr. Kizer was reared on a farm and received most of his education in a subscription school. He was married in 1849 to Miss Caroline tloffheine, daughter of John Iloftheine. They have had 6 children, but one of whom is living, Elhanan AY. He came to this county in 1852, since which time he has resided here save two years that he resided in Michigan. He owns 90 acres on sec. 28, and is engaged in farming. In politics Mr. Kizer is a Greenbacker. Mr. and Mrs. Kizer are worthy members of the M. E. Church.

John Klein Jr., Mishawaka. This enterprising young dealer in and manufacturer of boots and shoes was born in Mishawaka June 2, 1850, and is a son of John and Mar}' Klein, also of Mishawaka. He is of German descent; he early learned the shoemaker's trade, which he now follows, and also carries a fine stock of ready-made boots and shoes, and gents' furnishing goods. He is doing a good business, which is on the increase.

Michael Klein W&?, born in Prussia Sept. 29, 1818; reared on a farm and educated in German in his native country; came to America in 1*36; remained in New Orleans five years, working in a restaurant; came to Stark county, Ohio, in 1840, where he remained until the fall of 1841, when he came to this county, locating in this tp., in the heavy timber. He has worked very hard, and made for himself and family a comfortable home. He was married in 1850 to Miss Marj' Rieff, who has borne him S children, namely: Henry, Caroline, Jacob, Josephine, Mary, Albert, George and Laura. Mr. and Mrs. Klein are members of the Catholic Church.

Oeorge Kuhn was born in Erie county, N. Y., June 18, 1837, and is a son of Bonafanter Kuhn, a native of Switzerland. He "was raised in the woods," and therefore had no educational advantages; what education he has he obtained by hard study, without a teacher. He came to Mishawaka in 1859, and in 1861 built the St. Joseph flouring-mill, mentioned in the history of Peiin tp., on a preceding page. He was married Sept. 18, 1862, to Miss Margaret Michels, by whom he has had 7 children; 6 are living: John, George, Peter, Joseph, Edward and August.

IVulfgang Kuvftman, deceased. This prominent and useful man was born in Byron, Germany, June 9, 1828, and was a son of John Kunftman. At the age of 14 years he was apprenticed to a lock-maker; he became master of this art and exhibited great skill in his work. He came to Mishawaka in 1853, where he acted as foreman in the St. Joseph Iron Works, rendering valuable services for several years. He was married in 1854 to Miss Sophia Shafer, daughter of Conrad Shafer. She was born in Germany also, and came to America with her parents at 11 years of age. They had 7 children, namely: Katie, Julia, Ferdinand (dec), Philip, Sophia, Lizzie and George. In 1S6S Mr. Knnftman removed to his farm on sec. 7, where he engaged in farming and stock-raising, and was eminently successful. He died Nov. 7,1877, loved and respected by all. He was a very benevolent man, always ready to assist in the promotion of charitable institutions. The family lost a kind husband and father, and the community a valuable member of society, in the death of Mr. Kunftman. He was a consistent Christian, and a worthy member of the Lutheran Church for many years prior to his death.

W'dham Kuss was born in Russia Feb. 27, 1846, and is a son of John Kuss, deceased. He was brought up on a farm, and educated in the village of Ruhden. He came to Mishawaka in 1868, where he began in the bakery business in 1873, in company with Mr. Rholeder. This iirin dissolved in 1879, and Mr. Kuss continues it alone. He carries a capital stock of $2,600 in groceries and provisions, queen's-ware, etc., in addition to the bakery, and is doing a large business. He was married March 26, 1874, to Miss Mary Wies, by whom he has 3 children: Charley. Edward and Anna.

Alexander LaidJaw. Being a native of this county Mr. Laidlaw is identified with its history, and therefore is entitled to more Oil than a passing notice in a work like this. He was born in this tp. ^"^0 l^^ April 15, 1846, and is a son of John Laidlaw, of Mishawaka, whom jL.f we mention elsewhere. Alexander was reared on a firm and educated in the common-schools of this county. He was married March 10, 1868, to Miss Elizabeth Burrus, daughter of George Burrus, of Elkhart. This union has been blessed with .5 children, of whom 4 are living, viz.: Ada, George, John and an infant son. Mr. Laidlaw resides on sec. 29, and is engaged in farming and stock-raising, owning 110 acres of valuable land.

John Lnidlaio is a native of Blainsley, Scotland, and was born xi.. 5, 1812. His parents, John and Susan Laidlaw, removed with eir family to St. Lawrence county, N. Y., in 1818. He Was brought up on a farm and educated in the common schools; came to this county in 1836; during the first winter he worked for the St. ^^ Joseph L-on Company, and worked afterward as a common laborer,

;,)^*^rr5 capital. He bought a small piece of timbered land, and by Y J^^ hard work and wise management has accumulated a fortune. He was married in 1837 to Miss Sally Shaw, by whom he has had 13 children; of these, 10 are living, viz.: Susan, Lydia, Edwin, Alexander, Caroline, Jane, Mary, Ella, Emma and John. Mr. L. owns 610 acres of land besides a large amount of town property. He now resides in Mishawaka, in his beautiful residence.

Ohauncy W. Lamport was born in Genesee (then Orleans) county, N. T., April 1, 1814, and is a son of "William and Belinda Lamport, natives of New England. He was reared on a farm and educated in a common school in Ohio, where his parents removed about 1823. He was married in 184:6 to Miss Adaline D. Barber, dauojiiter of Cliauncy and Persis (Whitin<jj) Barber, natives of Connecticut. Mrs. Lamport was born in Marcellus, N. Y. In one week after marriao;e they started for this county, and arrived in due season. Tiiey have 4 children: Belinda P., now Mrs. Henry Boles, of this tp.; Plortensius M., pastor of the M. E. Church at Bristol, Ind; A. Lamar, principal of the InVh school, Waterloo, Ind; and Emma R., at home. Mr. Lamport knows all about the hardest of labor, of which lie has done a orpeat deal. He is now retired, and resides in Oceola. Mr. and Mrs. Lamport are worthy members of theM. E. Church.