Perry Township (part 3 of 3)

786 acres of well improved land, all of which was acquired by his own energy and thrift. His wife survived him a number of years, dying in 1887. Six children were born to Benjamin G. and Sarah Cunningham, as follows; Greer B., Louis S., Marion A., Stephen B., Adeline and Joseph, all living except the first named.

Marion A. Cunningham was reared on the home farm, and had better advantages in the way of acquiring an education than many of the youth of his neighborhood, attending first the common schools, and later the Muncie high school, and one term at the Normal college at Valparaiso, completing his studies before attaining his majority. In 1881, he was united in marriage to Miss Anna Jump, daughter of S. V. and Rebecca Jump, natives of Ohio and the state of Delaware respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Cunningham are the parents of five interesting children, whose name are as follows: Mary Rebecca, born July 18, 1883; Fannie L., born June 30, 1885; Ethel R. , born June 4, 1888; Nelson F. , and Neva T. (twins), whose birth occurred August 29, 1890.

Immediately after his marriage, Mr. Cunningham located on the place where he now resides, and he enjoys the distinction of having one of the finest and most successfully culivated farms of his neighborhood, and the most complete and comfortable dwelling in the township of Perry. Fraternally, he is a member of the Masonic order, belonging to Muncie lodge. No. 18, and politically, wields an influence for the republican party. For two terms he held the office of township trustee, and at this time he is the efficient commissioner from his part of the county, to which responsible position he was elected .November, 1891. As an official, Mr. Cunningham is painstaking and methodical, and he loses no opportunity to look after the welfare of the county. His duties are discharged in a manner highly satisfactory to all, and by his diligence in looking after the people's interests he has won for himself a warm place in the hearts of his fellow citizens, irrespective of party.

AMES DAVISON, one of the most enterprising farmers of Perry township, Delaware county, Ind., was born in Butler county, Ohio, December 28, 1822, son of James and Polly (Doty) Davison, both of whom were natives of Virginia, of English descent. James learned the trade of broom maker and did a good business in that trade for many years. In 1847 he married Miss Martha Kenyon, daughter of Daniel and Nancy (Dortch) Kenyon, the former a native of the state of Maine and the latter of Virginia, and both of English descent. Mr. and Mrs. Kenyon were the parents of eight children, but Mrs. Davison is the only survivor. Mr and Mrs. Davison reared a family as follows: William T. , born September 16, 1847, deceased; Mary, born September 15, 1849, the wife of Dr. J. L. Hendricks; Delisca I , born July 27, 1851, the wife of Volna Sears; John B., born March 16, 1854; Laura A.,

One year after marriage, Mr. Davison moved to the place where he now lives and brought with him the first cook stove ever used in Perry township. He owns now 460 acres of land, which he has made by application to his work, being a man who has labored steadfastly and has accumulated his large possessions honestly. He has never speculated and has never received any assistance. After lo- eating on his farm he worked at his trade in connection with his agricultural pursuits. He is what may be called a self made man, and is one who enjoys the respect of the citizens throughout Perry township. Politically, he affiliates with the democratic party.

AVID FLETCHER, who has passed his three score and ten years, is a very worthy citizen of Perry township, and a native of Hamilton county, Ohio, born May 29, 1823. He is the son of John and Polly (Templen) Fletcher, the father being a native of Pennsylvania, and the mother of Ohio; he being of German, and she of English descent. In 1830 the parents came to Delaware county, where the father bought forty-nine acres of land in the woods, and endured many hardships while clearing the same. Of their children, only two have lived to be the heads of families, namely: David, and Mary A., wife of Hiram Pendlum, and they are the only living children. The deceased were: Rebecca, Eunice, William

David Fletcher was reared on the farm, but the schools of his day were far apart; hence he had but very little opportunity for gaining an education. The longest time he ever attended, at one time, was three weeks. His father was a tanner by trade, and when a boy David devoted his time between the farm and the tan yard. After attaining his majority David became a partner of his father, and worked at the tannery business about fifteen years. David Fletcher was married December 10, 1846, to Asenath Thornburg, daughter of Joab and Elizabeth (Holloway) Thornburg, and five children have been born to him and his wife, namely: John E., born December 23, 1848; Rebecca, born in 1850, wife of J. B. Howell; Joab, born December 19, 1855, died July 25, 1861; Samuel V., born September 13, 1861; and Elizabeth E., deceased. The first land that David owned was twenty acres, to which he added, from time to time, until he got together 220 acres. This, however, he divided among his children, so he now has but 160 acres. Beside other property, Mr. Eletcher owns stock in a gas well. Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher are members of the Methodist church, and are very useful in that body. Socially he is a member of lodge No. 331, A. F. & A. M. He is a prohibitionist, and very ardent in his Support of that party.

ETER A. HELM was born in Delaware county, Ind. , October 27, 1828, and is widely known and much respected in Perry township, where he resides. He is the son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Slick) Helm, natives of Pennsylvania and of Irish and English descent. Peter A. is the sixth of twelve children, and remained at home until twenty-one years old. He received about three months' schooling in each year, working upon the farm dui'ing the remainder of the time.

David A. Helm enlisted, in 1861, in company K, Thirty-sixth Indiana regiment, and took an active part in many of the engagements in which his regiment participated. Eor eighteen months he was on detail duty, building pontoon bridges. He was discharged September 22, 1864, at Indianapolis, and returned home. He was married the same year to Elizabeth Clevenger, daughter of William and Jane (Smithton) Clevenger; her father being a native of Ohio and of Irish descent, and her mother a native of Indiana, and of Scotch descent. By this union there were born the following children: George T. , born October 19, 1865; Rebecca, May 27, 1868; Margaret E., born October 19, 1870, deceased; Clara L. , born March 16, 1873, wife of Schuyler Farlow; Mary G. , born January 18, 1876; William, born February 20,

After his marriage, Mr. Helm bought iio acres of land, and began farming. He now owns 207 acres of well improved land, all of which has been acquired by money he earned himself. Mr. and Mrs. Helm are members of the Christian church. Socially, he is a member of the G. A. R., at Windsor. In politics, Mr. Helm is a republican, has held the office of township trustee for two years, and is now assessor. He is a self-made, intelligent man of high character, having the confidence of all who know him.

OSEPH HEWITT is one of the successful farmers and respected citizens of Perry township, Delaware county, Ind. , also is known as a brave and efficient soldier during the late war. Mr. Hewitt was born in Randolph county, Ind., April i, 1843, a son of Joseph and Sarah (Putman) Hewitt, both natives of Ohio, of Irish descent. In 1841 Joseph Hewitt removed to Randolph county, Ind., where he bought 160 acres of land, and there he and wife spent their last days.

Joseph Hewitt was reared on the farm of his father and received a common school education. When President Lincoln issued his call for troops in 1861, he was one of the brave men who responded to the call. He enlisted in the Thirty-sixth Indiana volunteers and went into camp at Richmond, Ind., from there being sent to Louisville, Ky. , thence with his regiment to Fort Donelson, in the great battle of which he bore a gallant part. He passed through the war uninjured, but took part in all of the engagements of the regiment until he was mustered out, September 2, i86z, at Indianapolis. Mr. Hewitt was married June 19, 1864, to Miss Louisa Stump, daughter of Joseph and Anna (Kesler) Stump, natives of Virginia and Ohio, of German and English descent. Mrs. Hewitt is one of eleven children. Mr. and Mrs. Hewitt reared the following family: Morton, born January 6, 1866;

Anna E., born January 25, 1868; Martha E., born February 9, 1870, the wife of William Lindsley; Clinton R., born December 4, 1872; Bessie J., born October i, 1875; Mary L., born October 8, 1877; Lula G. , born October 27, 1879; Gola, boim January 2, 1882, and Blaine, born March 26, 1885, who died December 5, 1886. Since his marriage, Mr. Hewitt has lived in Perry township, where he engages in farming. For many years he voted the republican ticket, but in 1892, desiring a change, he voted with the people's party. Mr. Hewitt is a kind father and a good husband, and one of the best of neighbors. He is universally respected in his neighborhood and belongs to that large and respectable class of people who, in a quiet and unassuming way, do so much for the moral and social advancement of the community. Mr. and Mrs. Hewitt have recently become members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

OBERT HINDMAN, one of the pioneers of Delaware county and a man who has made his record for industry, hard work, perseverance and integrity, was born in Ohio, May 10, 1808, a son of Samuel and Isabella (Hamilton) Hindman, both natives of Pennsylvania, the former of Irish and the latter of Scotch birth. Samuel Hindman moved from Pennsylvania to Kentucky and learned the trade of weaver, which he followed all of his life, also engaging in farming in connection with his chosen calling. He reared a family of eleven children.

Robert Hindman was reared a farmer and assisted his father in his work. At that time there were few schools, and young Robert had but limited educational advantages. After he had reached maturity and had gone out from under the parental roof, he worked for a time at various kinds of labor, earning money and living uprightly. When he began to desire a home of his own, he married Miss Rosanna Murry, daughter of William and Mary (Boles) Murry, both of them natives of Pennsylvania, of English descent. After two years of married life in Wayne county, Mr. Hindman decided to become a farmer for the remainder of his life, and for the purpose of obtaining land, he immigrated to Indiana and located in the woods, in Delaware county, entering eighty acres and purchasing forty, there being just enough of the eighty acre farm cleared to enable a log cabin to be erected upon it.

Mr. and Mrs. Hindman have reared a family of eight children, as follows: Samuel; Cynthia, the wife of Samuel Hackman; Fremont, and Florence, the wife of David Brooks; all the rest are deceased. The family are members of the Presbyterian church, to which Mr. Hindman has contributed liberally of his means and to which he lends his influence. Politically, he is a stanch republican, and gave his first presidential vote for John Quincy Adams. He is one of the oldest and most respected of the good citizens of the township, and a representative farmer of Delaware county.

AMES H. JACKSON. - The following biography is written of one who has passed from the scenes of his earthly labors, but who has left behind him a record of an honest and industrious life, filled with kind deeds to those around him. James Jackson was born in Shelby county, Ohio, P'ebruary 6, 1823, a son of Jesse and Mary Jackson, both natives of Virginia, and both of English birth. He emigrated from Ohio to Delaware county, Ind., in the year 1873, and located in Perry township, where he engaged in the pursuit of agriculture. He married December I, 1845, Miss Elizabeth West, a daughter of Thomas and Mary (Benbow) West, both of whom were natives of South Carolina, of English descent. Mrs. Jackson was one of sixchildren, and she became the mother of four, as follows: John B. . born September 3, 1846; Edward D., born March 28, 1849; Elizabeth J., born February ii, 1853; the wife of Jacob H. Kilmore, of Henry county, and Emma C., born March 22, 1859; the wife of Mark Swearengen.

After his marriage, Mr. Jackson located on his farm, and faithfully followed agricultural pursuits until he was called away by death, October 28, 1889. He was a man of excellent traits of character, kind, but just, and was a capable manager of his business. The fine farm of 184 acres of good land was earned by his own efforts, and he took great comfort in thinking how well he had provided for those dependent upon him. His remains lie in the peaceful cemetery at Mount Pleasant. Both he and his excellent wife, who still survives, were members of the United Brethren church, and were faithful in their attendance and support. Mr. Jackson always manifested the interest of a good citizen in the affairs of the nation, and voted with the republican party. He was in all respects a representative citizen, and his death was felt as a personal loss, not only by

OHN B. JACKSON. - Delaware county, Ind., is noted not only for its fine farms, but also for its wide awake and progressive citizens, and many of these reside in Perry township. Among the latter may be named John B. Jackson, who was born in Delaware county, September 3, 1846, a son of James H. and Elizabeth (West) Jackson, whose sketch precedes this.

John B. Jackson was the eldest of the family of four children, and lived with his parents until he was twenty -one, having attended the common schools during the winters, as was the custom of the boys of the time and neighborhood. When he was twenty-two he entered upon the life of school teacher, and successfully continued it for some time. Mr. Jackson was married July 2, 1870, to Miss Elizebeth J. Marshall, daughter of Miles and Elizabeth (Bell) Marshall, and by this union became the father of five children, as follows: Miles H., born December 12, 1871; Clyde E., born April 27, 1873, but was taken away September 12, of the same year; Fatima L. , born December 20, 1875, who now is one of the efficient teachers of Delaware county; Gola M., born April 9, 1877, and Eva E., born November 16, 1881. After his marriage, Mr. Jackson bought 100 acres of land and began the cultivation of it, giving up the teacher's profession entirely. He is now the owner of 140 acres, which are under a high state of cultivation, and he is considered one of the prosperous farmers of the community in which he resides. Socially, Mr. Jackson is a member of the Masonic order, belonging to Whitney lodge. No. 229, at New Burlington. In his political opinions, he is a republican, and has efficiently filled the office of assessor of Perry township for five years, and is at present serving as trustee of the same. He possesses in a marked degree the respect of the community and is justly entitled to a prominent place among the representative citizens of Perry township and Delaware county.

^^y^IELIAM A. JORDAN. - Among the Mm I prosperous farmers of Perry township stands William A. Jordan, who was born in Wayne county, Ind., November 9, 1826, and is the son of William and Mary (McClellen) Jordan. His ancestors came from Scotland in an early day and settled in Pennsylvania in 1800. William Jordan, father of William A., came from Pennsylvania to Wayne county, Ind., and entered a tract of land and made a comfortable home there in 1810. He was also a soldier in the war of 1812. He then went back to Pennsylvania, and married Miss McClellen; and soon after returned with his bride to Indiana, to his farm. Here, through his industry, Mr. Jordan succeeded in accumulating considerable means, owning at one time a fine farm consisting of 400 acres, and a tract of 560 acres of valuable land in Wabash county. Mr. and and Mrs. Jordan reared a family of eleven children, as follows: George, John, Rachel, Russell, deceased; Jane, deceased; Margaret, deceased; William A., James R. , Smith, Elizabeth A., deceased, and Nancy. The father of these chlidren died, at the age of eighty-six years, in 1878, and the mother in 1883. They were laid to rest in the Jordan cemetery, and were much mourned by their relatives and a large circle of friends.

W. A. Jordan Mrs. M. Jordan

as he had the advantage of eighteen months of training in a graded school. He married, in 1847, Miss America Davidson, daughter of William and Mary (McSherley) Davidson, who were natives of Kentucky, of Scotch descent. Mr. and Mrs. Jordan became the parents of twelve children: Viretta, wife of Dr. A. L. Murray, of Eaton, Francis M., a farmer; Mary C., wife of C.

S. ; Florence N., deceased; Clay, deceased; Carrie, wife of Fremont Gates; William, a farmer, and Volney M. After his marriage Mr. Jordan settled in Delaware county, and in 1847 purchased 140 acres of land, nearly all of which was covered with undergrowth, but by hard work and close economy he kept adding to his farm, and at the present time owns 640 acres of well improved land. In 1872 Mrs. Jordan was called to the land of departed spirits, and now lies buried in the Blountsville cemetery. In 1873, Mr. Jordan was married to Miss Minerva Finch, daughter of John and Mary (Blount) Finch. Mrs. Minerva (Blount) Jordan was born in Randolph county, Ind , May 6, 1836, and daughter of John and Mary (Blount) Finch, who were of Scotch and Irish extraction and who were pioneers of this county, and the family located in or near Blountsville about 1810. His grandfather was in the war of 1812. Mr. Jordan and his wife are devoted members of the Methodist Episcopal church. In his politics he is a republican and socially he is a member of the Good Templar lodge. He has served as justice of the peace for one term, and was also trustee for one term during the time the first school houses were being built in Perry township. Mr. and Mrs. Jordan are very highly respected and loved by all who know them, their walk through life having been such as to command the affection and esteem of their neighbors, as well as that of many outside the township.

FORGE W. KEESLING grew up in Delaware county, Ind., amid scenes of forest clearing, and at a time when the country was settling but slowly. He was born October 15, 1842, being the son of Martin and Corassa (Rees) Keesling, the father a native of West Virginia, and the mother of Ohio, and both of German descent. They were the parents of ten children, namely: Morris, deceased; Lewis; Sophia; an infant, deceased; Mary; Mahala; George; Lee, deceased; Henry C. and Stephen C., an infant, deceased. Martin Keesling came to Delaware county with a brother and sister, being comparatively poor, but he was a shrewd, hard working man, and owned at the time of his death 756 acres of land. He died in 1868, and his wife in 1880, both being buried in the Rees cemetery. George W. Keesling lived at home until he w'as eighteen years old, receiving the advantages of the district school, and at the age of nineteen enlisted in company G, Ninth Indiana cavalry, under Capt. J. R. Nasher, and went into camp at Nashville, Tenn. The first engagement he was in was at Lawrenceburg, September 16, 1864; then at Florence, September 18, 18.64; Pulaski, September 28, 1864; Franklin, December 17, 1864, and Little Harpeth, December 17, 1864. He escaped injury, and was discharged at Vicksburg, August 18, 1865. He returned home and lived there until his marriage, which occurred February 28, 1867. His wife was Cora Cunningham, daughter of Joseph and Margaret (Farmer) Cunningham, her father being a native of Pennsylvania, and her mother of Maryland. Cora was one of three children, two girls and a boy. Her father came from Virginia to Delaware county, Ind., in the year 1865. He now lives at Converse, where he is a general merchant.

namely: Ella M., born June i6, 1868, deceased; Ida, born August 19, 1869, wife of Cormelias Swingly; Laura, born March 14, 1872, wife of William Jordan; George B., born July 4. 1874; Homer, born February 16, 1877, deceased; Clara, born November 7, 1881; and Hildrey, born December 7, 1889. After his marriage Mr. Keesling lived at the old place one year, and then bought 140 acres of land, to which he has added until he now owns 449 acres in Delaware county, beside 270 acres in York county. Pa. Mr. Keesling is a self made man, and well liked, being much respected by all who know him, and is a man of superior management, In politics he is a republican, and his influence, which is always exerted for that party, is considerable.

OHN LINDSEY is a well-to-do and popular farmer of Delaware county, who was born in Wayne county, Ind. , July 9, 1834, being the son of Thomas and Sarah (Finch) Lindsey. His parents are of Scotch-Irish descent, and in 1828 immigrated to Delaware county, Ind. They were the parents of eleven children, namely: Melmuth E., John, Sarah, William, Robert, Thomas, Clarence, Monroe and Matthew, the last four deceased; the remaining two died in infancy. The father of these children died in 1881, and five years later the mother also died, the two now resting in Blountsville cemetery. John Lindsey lived at home until he married, in 1853, Emma, daughter of Samuel B. and Mary (Truitt) Clevenger. By this marriage eight children were born, namely: Francis M., Thomas C. , James M. , Laura, wife of Charles Hegwood; Clara, wife of J. C. Thornburg; Ora, wife of Jonathan Jefferson; Martha, wife of C. Clevenger, and Allie, wife of Walter Thornburg. After Mr. Lindsey married he bought forty acres of land, lived on it for seven years; then sold it and bought eighty acres in Delaware county. In 1864 he sold the property and went to Parker, where he engaged in general merchandise for two years; then went to Blountsville and followed the same business for one year. Then he returned to farming, buying 120 acres, and later, eighty more. In the meantime he had gone security for Henry Jacobs and Ben Evans, and had to pay the whole amount, being compelled to sell his land, and it took all his money. Mr. Lindsey would not be cast down, but borrowed the money to buy 175 acres of land, paying ten per cent interest four years; later, he bought eighty acres more, and now owns 389 acres in all. He has bought and shipped stock, together with farming, for the past thirty-five years. In the year 1880 his wife died, and in 1882 he again married, his second wife being Sarah, daughter of John and Mary (Burnside) Sivvee. By this marriage are two living children - Corwin and Ethel. In politics Mr. Lindsey is a republican and very strong in that faith.

ARY H. McCORMICK. - Among the large and well cultivated farms of Delaware county, Ind., here and there may be found smaller ones, just as carefully managed and just as productive, according to size, and upon one of these pleasant tracts, of fifty-two acres, in Perry township, resides the lady for whom the following sketch is prepared.

The birth of Miss McCormick took place in a state which has, in times past, produced many brave and self reliant women. She entered the world, April 15, 1836, in Bedford county. Pa., a daughter of James and Elizabeth (Langham) McCormick, both of whom were natives of the Keystone state, the former of Irish and the latter of German extraction. In 1839, Mr. and Mrs. McCormick immigrated to Fayette county, Ind. , where Mrs. McCormick died, after which the father brought his children to Delaware county. In 1841, Mr. McCormick was also removed by death, leaving three orphan children, Mary H. being the eldest, and at that time but five yaars of age. She was taken by her grandmother, and lived with the latter until, at the age of ten, she was bereft of this natural guardian. The next five years were spent in the family of a Mr. Hoover, but at that time she undertook the care of Mr, and Mrs. Lyman Halstead, and faithfully performed a daughter's part to them until their respective deaths. Miss McCormick, in her life, has displayed those qualities which make successful the lives of the hospital nurses, those noble women who smooth so many dying beds and show tenderness and care to those who have none other to care for them. Patience, tenderness, piety, industry and economy are necessary qualities to one who can take up such a burden. That the ministrations of Miss McCormick were appreciated, was shown by a bequest of $1,800, at the time of the death of her employers. With this money she wisely invested in land adjoining the Halstead estate, and has lived here, her own mistress, ever since. The biographer is not informed concerning Miss McCormick's attitude on the question of woman's rights, but she has shown by her life that she has not preferred marriage, and has sufficiently proved by her efficient management of her affairs that she has needed no male directing hand. She has one sister, the widow of Joseph Runkle. For thirty-six years she has been an active and valued member of the Christian church. Few ladies, indeed, have exhibited as much self reliance as Miss McCormick, and none, certainly, deserve higher commendation.

ILES MARSHALL. - In considering the progress made by any section of country, the thoughtful person will ask concerning those who have passed away, as well as of those who still carry on the affairs of life and enjoy its honors. The past has made the present what it is. One of those who for many years lived among the residents of Perry township, Delaware county, Ind., and whose life commanded the highest regard and confidence, is represented by the name with which this sketch is opened. Miles Marshall was born in Wayne county, Ohio, in 1811, and in 1836 immigrated to Delaware county, Ind., bringing with him his wife and infant. He had been married in 1834 to Miss Elizabeth Bell, daughter of James and Margaret (Blare) Bell, and ten children were born of this union, eight of whom yet live. The record is as follows: Thomas B., born August 27, 1835; Margaret

A. , born November 15, 1837; Reuben, born April 9, 1840; Hannah, born April ii, 1842, the wife of Henry Temple; Jacob W. , born August zo, 1847, deceased; William H. ; Elizabeth J., born March 9, 1850, the wife of John

B. Jackson; Rebecca E., born May 3, 1853, the wife of Albert Offterdinger; Miles H., born Eebruary 15, 1856, and John B., born March 18, i«6o.

Mr. Marshall spent his boyhood days on his father's farm and attended the neighborhood schools at intervals during his minority. Plis early life was attended with obscurity, but he lived to become one of the most prominent and successful men of Perry township, and at one time was the owner of 320 acres of land. At present his widow owns eighty acres and resides with a daughter. Mr. Marshall possessed a mind of a judicial cast, and the confidence of the whole neighborhood was reposed in him. He was called upon continually to assist in the settlement of estates, and as a man of excellent judgment he could not be excelled. Politically, he was a republican for many years, but at the time of the second term of President Grant he became a democrat, and so continued all his life. He was a man of many good qualities of mind and heart and was much lamented by the people of the community, who had learned to esteem him for his many sterling qualities of manhood.

As the name of the subject of this mention indicates, he was born in Germany and inherited, in a great measure, those qualities which have made his race respected and independent in whatever part of the world their fortunes may have placed them. His birth occurred January 7, 1 81 1, a son of Gottleib and Frederica (Helfrie) Offterdinger, both natives of Germany, who spent their whole lives in the Fatherland. Mr. Offterdinger grew to manhood in his native country, and at the age of twenty years crossed the Atlantic and located in the state of Pennsylvania, remaining there one year, and then coming to the state of Indiana and settling in Wayne county in 1832. He had learned the trade of tanner in his native country with his father, and after coming to Wayne county engaged in his chosen calling for Jacob Sinks until 1836. At that date he married Hannah Mendenhall, daughter of Isaiah and Ghristiana (Clark) Mendenhall, both natives of North Carolina, of English descent. Mrs. Offterdinger was one of a family of ten children, and her birth took place January 16, 1818. She has but one sister living, Margaret, born in 1812. Mr. and Mrs. Offterdinger reared a family of twelve children, as follows: Gottleib, born July 12, 1837, deceased; Theresa B., born November 26, 1838, deceased; Christina

M., born April 4, 1841, the wife of Samuel Parks; Sarah A., born February 5, 1843, deceased; Caroline, born August i, 1844, the wife of David Doubty; Amanda, born September 23, 1846, wife of David Waller; Mary J., born December 6, 1848, deceased; Franklin B., born January 12, 1851, deceased; Albert M., born August 17, 1853; Luther J., born August 5, 1855; John, born December 7, 1857, and Julia E., born March 9, i860, the wife of Horace Marshall, deceased.

After marriage Mr. Offterdinger lived in Wayne county forfive years, and then removed to Delaware county in 1842. In the latter county he engaged in farming, buying a small tract of land to begin with, and by industry and economy, accumulated from time to time, until at the time of his death he owned 696 acres of fine land. He received but a small amount of assistance from his home, never speculated, but made his money honestly, and by the dint of hard work and German thrift. His parents were members of the Lutheran church, and in that belief he was brought up, although he never united with any denomination in America. Eor many years he was a republican, but at the time of the second canvas of Gen. Grant, he became an independent, holding that position until his decease. He was one of the solid farmers and good citizens of the township, and left many friends behind.

AMUEL PARKS. - The name which opens this sketch has been a familiar one to the residents of Perry township, Delaware county, Ind., for many years, and the original is known to be one of the best citizens and most prosperous farmers of the township. Although at present an invalid, having been prostrated in July, 1892, with a stroke of paralysis, he still views life cheerfully from his comfortable sick room and takes an interest in all that goes on about him. He was born May 8, 1845, the state of Virginia, a son of Amos and Sarah (Sikes) Parks, both natives of North Carolina, of Irish ancestry. Amos Parks died in the Old North state in 1888, but Mrs. Sarah Parks is still living there. Samuel was one of seven children and had no educational advantages, but by the exercise of his strong mind he partially educated himself and became a good business man. In 1868 he was married to Miss Matilda Offterdinger, daughter of August and Hannah (Mendenhall) Offterdinger, whose sketch appears in another part of this volume. Although no children have been born to this union, Mr. and Mrs. Parks have taken an adopted daughter to their hearts and home. The illness of Mr. Parks interfered with his active life, he having been president of one of the gas well companies in this township. He is a member of the Masonic order, connected with lodge No. 331, located at Blountville. Politically Mr. Parks is a prohibitionist, and he and wife are both members of the Methodist church. He has a fine farm of ninety-four acres, a beautiful home and a most excellent surroundings, with every convenience for thorough farming. He and his wife are much eeteemed in the neighborhood.

HBNER H. RATCLIFF, one of the the honored ex-soldiers and prominent farmers of Perry township, Delaware county, Ind. , was born in Clinton county, Ohio, April 23, 1846, a son of | Nathan and Phebe (Hayworth) Ratcliff, both natives of Ohio, of English descent. Their removal to Howard county, Ind. , took place in 1850; and they became the parents of seven children, Abner H. being third in order of birth.

Abner Ratcliff lived at home, with his parents, until his enlistment in the army, in the late war, when he entered the Eleventh Indiana cavalry, in company L, under Capt. Lindsey, going into camp at Kokomo, Ind., and then at Camp Carrington, and then at Nashville, Tenn. , in 1864. He continued with his regiment during the remainder of the I war, except a few months, when he was within the walls of the hospital, and received his dis- I charge May 23, 1865. He was at the battles of Franklin, Tenn., and at Spring Hill; also at the battle of Nashville and many minor skirmishes.

After the \yar he returned home and worked in a saw mill and did some farm work until April 10, 1871, when he married. His wife was Miss Hannah E. Coffin, daughter of Francis, born March ii, 1798, and Susanna, born June 16, 1805

(Stanton) Coffin, the father a native of North Carolina, and the mother of Virginia. Mrs. Ratcliff was born, where she now lives, i July 22, 1841, her parents having settled in Perry township in 1834. Mrs. Ratcliff is one of a family of twelve children. Her parents have both passed away, the mother in 1885, and the father in 1850. By this marriage Mr. and Mrs. Ratcliff have become the parents of three children - Sarah E. , born January 27, 1872; Frances O., born March 27, 1874; and Ada S., born April 15, 1878.

Mr. Ratcliff owns 100 acres of well improved land in Perr}' township, and has a pleasant home. He and wife are members of the Christian church, in which thay take a deep interest, and for whose prosperity they cheerfully labor. He is on of the esteemed members of the G. A. R. Abram D. Sholty I post. No. 73, at Windsor, and the republican party, in its declarations, embodies the political doctrines to which he subscribes. He is no office holder, never desiring any recognition, preferring to give his entire atttention to his farming interests. To the credit of Mr. Ratcliff, be it said he has made his own way in life, as far as receiving any aid from his ancestors may be concerned. To him and wife belongs the credit of their success. The parents of Mrs. Ratcliff were of English descent. Her father was a whig. In addition to being a farmer he was a harness maker by trade.

OHN N. REECE, a well known and popular citizen of Delaware county, was born in the state of Delaware, August 28, 1809, being the son of John and Susanna (Hogner) Reece. His father was a native of Delaware state, and of Welsh descent; his mother was a native of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. They were the parents of seven children, of whom John N. is the only survivor. The latter had no advantages of schooling, because the district schools of his time were few and far between. John N. Reece was married, in 1834, to Catherine Meyers, daughter of Jonathan and Margaret Meyers, her father being a native of Maryland, and her mother of New Jersey, and both of German descent.

12, 1861. After Mr. Reece had married he lived in Pennsylvania for ten years; then removed to Randolph county, Ind., in 1844; in 1854 he located in Delaware county, Ind., where he bought seventy-four acres of land. His wife was an invalid for a period of three years prior to her death, which occurred October 28, 1885. In politics Mr. Reece is an independent, voting for those who, in his judgment, will make the best officers.

ACOB H. REES, an honored and prominent citizen, an ex-soldier of the late war and a well known farmer of Perry township, was born in Delaware county, Ind., November 5, 18.40, son of John and Martha (Powers) Rees, both natives of Virginia, of Welsh descent. 'These parents came to Delaware 'county, Ind., in 1827, and entered 160 acres of land and erected a log cabin in the wilderness. A family of eleven children grew up around them, six of whom lived to be heads of families, five of whom are yet living. Mr. Rees died in 1864, and his wife in 1876, and both are lying in the Powers cemetery.

Jacob H. Rees was reared on the old home place and attended the neighborhood school for about three months in the year. He enlisted, in 1864, in company G, Ninth Indiana cavalry, and immediately thereafter went into camp at Richmond, Ind., but was soon sent with his command to Nashville, Tenn. His first engagement was at Franklin, from which place the regiment was driven back to Nashville, and from there pursued Hood's army to Athens, Ala., where it went into winter quarters near Sulphur Springs. From the latter place the regiment marched to Vicksburg, thence to Nashville, and later to Port Gibson, where Mr. Rees was taken sick and was sent received his honorable discharge September 10, 1865. In 1874, Mr. Rees was married to Miss Elizabeth Conwell, the daughter of George and Mary (Messick) Conwell, both natives, of the state of Delaware, the former of Irish descent and the latter of Welsh. Mrs. Rees is one of twelve children. Mr. and Mrs. Rees have two children, William E., born July 17, 1875, and Mary A., born December I, 1885.

Choosing agriculture for his life work, Mr. Rees first located on an eighty acre tract of land, which he improved and farmed for six years, and then sold and bought his present place, consisting of 160 acres, it being the old homestead farm which his father purchased from the government. Fraternall}^, Mr. Rees is a member of the Whitney Masonic lodge at New Burlington, No. 229. Politically he is a republican, and bravely upholds the principles for which he fought. Mrs. Rees' father was a gallant soldier, gave up his life on the Mississippi river, and was buried at Helena. His wife passed away in 1883.

OHN REES. - Among the prominent business men of the thriving town of New Burlington, Ind., the gentleman for whom this sketch is prepared takes a foremost place. John Rees was born in Delaware county, Ind., July 13, 1826, a son of Louis and Polly Rees, both of whom were natives of Wales, who came to Ohio with their parents when children. They married in Ohio, and reared a family of ten children, as follows: David, Louis, Robert and John, living, and Gracie, Bowen, Morris, Mary A. , Sydney and Bort, deceased.

John Rees grew up on the farm of his father and learned by experience the practical duties of agricultural life. After he became of age he farmed the old homestead for his father for five years. The place was large, and the family needs were great, so that John did not get as many school advantages as he would have liked. In 1849 he married Mary A. Rees, daughter of David and Sydney (Oldaker) Rees, both of whom were natives of Wayne county, Ind., of German descent. Mrs Rees' father was born February 5, 1804 and her mother, September 20, 1814. They had but two children, Levina, the wife of Borter Rees, and the wife of the subject of this biography, the sisters marr}dng brothers.

John Rees and wife reared a family of eight children; Adeline, born October 8, 1854, deceased; Corracy, born November 25, 1857, deceased; Louis D., born December 5, i860; Wesley, born September 9, 1863, deceased; Levina E., born October 9, 1865; Mary E. , born November 9, 1869; Aburtis, born June 8, 1873, and Gunda B., born December 2, 1878.

After his marriage, Mr. Rees lived on the old homestead for some time, and then sold to advantage and bought the place where he now lives, consisting of 600 acres of well improved land. He is one of the wealthiest farmers in Perry township, and possesses the real esteem of all, and none are better known for kindness of heart to those less fortunate than himself. Politically, he votes with the republicans, but has never been a partisan in the sense of seeking official honors, never having had any aspirations in that direction. Such men are the bone and sinew of a country and their places in a community are eminently honorable and exceedingly difficult to fill. Mr. Rees has been something of a traveler. In 1859 he went to Pike's Peak and engaged in mining there, being quite successful. He had a fine claim near Mound City and made as much as

$40 per day, and did not regret his venture. He is now a stock holder in some of the gas wells in this vicinity, and occupies no unimportant position among the substantial and well-to-do citizens of Delaware county.

Ind. , that of Mr. Shuttleworth will always be held in kind remembrance. He passed out of life in his prime, but relatives and friends will ever cherish for him feelings of the deepest affection, and long mourn his departure from among them. He was born in West Virginia in 1844, a son of Joshua and Mary J. (Marrand) Shuttleworth. He was twenty-one years of age when he came here. He had been in the army, during the late war, having enlisted when a mere lad of nineteen years, and never entirely recovered his health, which the hardships of army life had shattered.

Mr. Shuttleworth was reared on the farm, and at a time when he should have been acquiring an education, was obliged to labor, but he was of a quick intelligence, and e.xperience taught him many lessons, making of him a man who could well attend to all of the business affairs of his life without asking aid of any one. It is not always a college education which makes of men successful citizens in a financial point of view. One of the wise and never regretted actions of his life was his marriage, in 1871, to the most estimable lady who still survives him. She was Miss Elizabeth Eelton, a daughter of Elijah and Elvina (Clemmon4) Felton, and from this union the following family of interesting children were born: Martha, Charles, Richard, Mary, Louis, Rosa, Alvina and Margaret. After marriage, Mr. Shuttleworth bought 180 acres of land and engaged in farming, but later he traded this place for another of 102 acres, where he made improvements, and then exchanged again for another farm of 160 acres, each time bettering his condition financially. Had his life been spared he would no doubt have been one of the wealthiest men in the township, as he possessed good judgment and was not easily deceived in any business transaction. What he had, he earned by the exercise of thrift and hard labor. Mr. Shuttleworth died in 1891, from disease contracted while in the army, as above stated. Since his death, his wife has most efficiently managed the affairs of the farm, showing most excellent judgment and wise discretion. Both Mr. Shuttleworth and wife were consistent and valued member of the United Brethren church, and long will be the time before his prerence will cease to be missed in the sanctuary. He was a good citizen, took much interest in the success of the republican party, to which he belonged, and was ever active in promoting the welfare of the community of which, for a number of years, he was such an honored and upright citizen.

y^ILLIAM THOMPSON. - The success that William Thompson has attained in life is due entirely to his own unaided efforts, as he was left an orphan at the tender age of five years. William Thompson was born in Coshocton county, Ohio, September 25, 1822, son of

James and Margaret (Gary) Thompson, both parents natives of Wales. Mr. Thompson, Sr., served in the war of 1812 and died at the age of fifty-two years, leaving a family of nine children, of whom William was the youngest son. At the death of his father, the young boy went to live in the family of a resident of Coshocton, with whom he remained two years, at the end of which period he found a home with his eldest sister. Here he remained until attaining his majority, during which time he enjoyed the advantage of twenty-seven days of school. When his twenty-first birthday was passed, Mr. Thompson began work for a man by the name of Jacob Elliott, a farmer, agreeing to give his services for $7 a month. This agreement lasted for a year, at the end of which time his employer failed, and consequently Mr. Thompson never received a single cent for his labor. In 1843 he came to Indiana, and as he had greatly improved the knowledge gained in his three weeks' schooling by hard study at night, he began teaching school at Stringtown, in an old log cabin. All his school appliances were very primitive, the first writing lessons being given on the clap boards with a piece of charcoal. In spite of all the disadvantages under which both teacher and pupils labored, the instruction gained in that little school was thorough, as the young instructor put all the energy of an earnest nature into his work.

Mr. Thompson was married March 12, 1844, to Miss Elizabeth P. Drake, a daughter of Joel and Mary (Stewart) Drake, natives of Ohio and Virginia, both of Irish descent. Mrs. Thompson was an only child. Mr. Drake died in 1845, but his wife survived him until 1867. To the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Thompson one child has been born, George O., whose birth occurred April 28, 1849. After marriage the young couple settled down on the farm where the ceremony was solemnized, and have made it their home ever since. Religiously Mr. Thompson is connected with the United Brethren church and has been the efficient superintendent of three Sunday schools for as many successive years. Mrs. Thompson occupies a prominent place in the Methodist church. Politically Mr. Thompson is a stanch republican and is well 1 informed on all the leading topics of the day. He is a farmer who keeps fully abreast of the times and is a man who enjoys the respect and esteem of the entire community.

e^DWARD THORNBURG is a wellto-do farmer who was born in Guilford county, N. C., in 1807. He is the son of Isaac and Rebecca (Hudson) Thornburg, both natives of the same state. The father was of Irish and the mother of Welsh descent. Isaac Thornburg came to Randolph county in 1831, bringing his family with him, and entering 320 acres of land, upon which he settled, and finally died in the year 1861. His remains are buried in the Hordshaw cemetery.

Edward Thornburg lived with his parents until he was twenty-two years of age, and received no advantages of schooling whatsoever. He came to Randolph county in 1829 and worked at such employment as he could find, in order to earn a livelihood. Two years afterward, he was married to Susan Thornburg, daughter of Joseph and Rachel (Bales) Thornburg. This marriage proved a very fruitful one, there being thirteen children born, the names of the entire number being as follows: Elizabeth J., born March 20, 1832, deceased; Rachel, born January 18, 1834, deceased; Margaret, born December 27, 1835; Mary, born December 12, 1837; Martha, April II, 1840; Rebecca, July ii, 1842; Elizabeth, August 5, 1844; Caroline, December 28, 1846; Isaac, May 20, 1848, deceased; Joseph M., October 21, 1850, deceased; John W. , January 3, 1853; Sarah E., November 4, 1855, deceased; and George H., born April 13, 1859. After Mr. Thornburg married he entered 120 acres of land in a howling wilderness. This he improved, and has added to it until he now owns in all 340 acres of well cultivated land. On November 7, 1862, his wife died, and in 1863 he was married to Mrs. Lydia A. Petro, daughter of Jacob and Martha (Boyles) Nevil, both natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. Mr. and Mrs. Thornburg are faithful members of the Christian church. He is a republican, and prior to the birth of this party he was a whig, and cast his first vote for John Quincy Adams for president. Mr. Thornburg is a worthy and good citizen, and is much respected by all who know him.

OSEPH H. THORNBURG is a farmer of worth and influence in Perry township, Delaware county, and is recognized as a man of energy and strong force of character. He was born in Clinton county, Ohio, April 17, 1831, being the son of Alexander and Malinda (Huskins) Thornburg. His father was a native of Ohio, and his mother of North Carolina, both being of English descent. They were the parents of two children only. Mrs. Malinda Thornburg died in 1834, and in 1836 Alexander Thornburg married a second time, his wife being Angeline Sullivan, by whom he had five children. The father was a farmer, and a very successful one, owning 300 acres of land at the time of his death, having previously divided a large part of his property among his children. This worthy man died in 1883, and was buried in the Union cemetery.

Joseph H. Thornburg was reared on his father's farm, and received a very limited education, the schools of that time holding very short terms, and being far apart. Beside, the farm work was so hard that it was pretty difficult to get away from it. He was married, in 1854, to Hannah Cunningham, daughter of Samuel C. , and she bore him four children, and Sarah H. The mother of these children died in 1 862, and in the following year he took Paulina Swearinger for his second wife, who bore him two children, namely; Emma, wife Eli Yockey, living at Muncie; and Irwin V. The second wife died, and in 1870 he married his third wife, Sarah W. Benbow, daughter of Edward and Susannah Benbow, by whom he had two children, namely: Jane, wife of William Knox; and Charles. The third wife died, leaving him a widower for the third time, and in 1872 he married his present wife, Sarah Thornburg, daughter of John and Eliza (Evans) Craig, her parents being natives of Ohio, and of English descent. There were three children by this marriage, Elnora, Sarah, and Burtice. As will be seen, Mr. Thornburg has lost several wives, and other misfortunes have befallen him, but he has courageously met them, and has the satisfaction of knowing that he has done his duty, and has now arrived at a point where he can take life easily. Mr. Thornburg owns 360 acres of fine land in Perry township, and is highly esteemed by all who know him. He and his wife are devoted members of the Christian church. Mr. Thornburg is a member of the republican party, and supports its nominees with much earnestness.

I-* AEAYETTE WHITNEY. - The genr tleman whose name introduces this _ sketch is one of the excellent farmers and business men of Perry township, Delaware county, Ind. , and was born in Washington county, Ohio, April 21, 1827, a son of Thomas and Hannah (Preston) Whitney, the former a native of Vermont, of Scotch descent, and the latter a native of Pennsylvania, of German lineage. They married in Washington county, Ohio, and reared a family of eight children, namely: Lafayette, Mcrdecai, Nancy, Phineas, Artimesia, William, David and Franklin, the last three deceased. These three were soldiers in the late war and died while in the heroic performance of duty - William losing his life at Winchester, Va. , David dying in Salisbury prison, and Franklin being killed in the battle of the Wilderness.

In 1831, Thomas Whitney brought his family to Delaware county, Ind. , and entered eighty acres of land in Liberty township and lived thereon for eight years, then sold it and bought 240 acres, which he improved and lived upon until his death, which occurred July 4, 1881, his wife having preceded him to the grave November 27, 1870. According to his wish, their remains were interred in the dooryard at the old home.

Lafayette Whitney was reared on his father's farm and received practically no education while at home. After he became of age he learned the carpenter trade under the supervision of his uncle, Louis Smith, and after learning proficient in the same, worked with him for two years, at the end of which time he began taking contracts and continued working at this trade for about twelve years. Mr. Whitney was married, April 21, 1858, to Miss Mary M. Snyder, a daughter of Jesse and Catherine (McGlaughlin) Snyder, the former of German descent and the latter of Irish, and both natives of Virginia, who came to Delaware county in 1848. Mrs. Whitney was horn April 5, 1841, and was one of a family of eleven children. Her father was a farmer b)^ occupation, and his death occurred in 1858. Mr. and Mrs. Whitney became the parents of five children, namely: Minerva A., born January 12, 1859, the wife of Dr. William A. Spurgeon, of Muncie; Nancy E., born January 18, i860, the wife of William Compton, of Muncie; John L. , born January 3, 1861, married Clara B. Lindville, and follows farming;

Laura J., born May 8, 1862, the wife of Malachi Swift, and resident of Smithfield; and Nellie B.,born August 22, 1865, the wife of William E. Martin, a resident and prominent farmer of Mount Pleasant township.

After his marriage Mr. Whitney bought eighty acres of land in Centre township, and remained thereon nearly a year, and in connection with agricultural pursuits also carried on the harness making trade, and one set of harness which came from his hands was sold to the government and was used in the Indian war in Minnesota. Mr. and Mrs. Whitney are devoted members of the Christian church, and have had the pleasure of seeing four of their children unite with the same denomination. Socially, Mr. Whitney is a member of the Masonic order, belonging to Whitney lodge No. 228, at New Burlington. In his politics he is a republican, and is one of the most respected citizens of the county.

ENRY WILL, a worthy citizen of Perry township, living at New Burlington, is a native of Germany, born in 1814, and is the son of George H. Will. When a young man he came with his two brothers to this country, and settled in Indiana. His fi