Pipe Creek Township (part 1 of 2)

Physical Description

IPE CREEK township derived its name frum its largest stream. It is seven miles in length and four miles in width and contains about twenty-eight square miles. All the territory lies in Congressional township twenty-six, 'north, ranges 3 and 4, east. The northern boundary line of the township is the center of the Wabash river. It is bounded on the west ky Cass county, south by Deer Creek township, east by Washington. 'The surface is high and rolling and along the river and Big Pipe Creek, rises in high and rolling bluffs, forming with the valleys a beautiful contrast of scenery. 'The soil varies from deep black loam to pourous clay, both of which, in some places, are mixed with sand. Natural drainage is excellent. Big Pipe creek enters the township in the south-eastern part and flows across it in a north-westernly direction. Little-Pipe creek drains the north-east part. These creeks have numerous

An Indian Village

When the first. white settlers came to the dense-forest within the limits of this township, there was.one Indian village. It was located on the north bank of Big Pipe creek on the site of the old John Duckwall farm. Seven or eight log huts were here and several down the creek farther, near the county line. This little collection of Indian huts was known as Squirrel village, in honor of the chief, 'Old Squirrrelly" The Indians were Miamis, but the chief was a Pottawattomie. who had married a Miami squaw. Jacob Rife describes him as a large man, over six feet in height, weighing about 180 pounds. His coarse, black hair hung in a plat down hig back, and in his nose was a large silver ring. He wore a sack shirt and leggings, and was one of the most savage looking Indians in all this country. When R. T. Jones came to this country, Squarrelly put him across Big Pipe creek in a boat, and he says the Indian looked so savage that he was ready every moment to shoot him on the spot. It is said that he belonged about Plymouth, but 6n account of his cruelty was driven away. | He loved ''fire-water" and when he became under the influence of it, he was dreaded by friend and foe. It is reported that at one time. while on a drunken spree, he tossed his baby in the air and stabbed it with his long knife as it fell. At the village the Indians would periodically all get drunk, but one, who stood guard. They would then all dance around a big fire and whoop and yell. Squirrelly lived in a double log house, and it was repaired by John Duckwall and was his residence for a number of years. When the soldiers came in 1847 to remove the Indians, Squirrelly and his little 'band disappeared. , ORGANIZTION OF THE TOWNSHIP.

The township was organized by the county commissioners, September 6, 1843. The first election was held in October of that year at William Clark's house, where David Graft now lives. 'he board consisted of William Clark, James Petty, David Carr, Peter Redd and Jacob Brandt. There were seventeen votes cast. John Reed was elected squire, Jacob Kellar, road supervisor, and a constable was elected. The office of trustee was. not created until some years. later. Then three trustees and a clerk was elected. Géorge Vore. George Wrights. Daniel Duckwall, Allen Stewart, George Shauman and Benjamin Hann were among the early trustees when there were three. Jacob Brandt was the first clerk and served three or four years. He was succeeled by John Nicoles who held the office untilit was abolished. The township was governed by three trustees and a clerk for six years. Then one trustee was elected annually for fifteen years or more, when the term was changed to two years, and since to four years. Squire Dillard was the first elected trustee, after the change was made from three to one. Then followed Cornelius Sullivan, and next Jacob Hollipeter. David Jacobs, sr., succeeded Hollipeter and was elected annually to that position for ten years. Mr. Jacobs is still living where he located over forty years ago, and is now past eighty-four years of age. He made an excellent trustee. His salary was from $35 to $40 per year. When he went into the office, there was no money, and the school houses had to be repaired. No special school tax had been levied. There were seven school districts, some of which had school for one month, some for two months, and some no school at all. _ Jacobs did not know whattodo. He built a school house at Leonida at his own expense and waited until the money was raised by.taxation. A school house was badly needed at Bunker Hill, but there was no money with which to build it. Mr. Jacobs went to Wm. Zehring, then president of the board of county commissioners, and laid the condition of affairs before him. 'The commissioner said that he could use only the special school fund. Jacobs replied that he was elected to do the best he could. The house was built largely at his own expense. He never gave a note or due bill, nor raised the rate of taxation, When he left the office there was $2,700 in the treasury. Mr. Jacobs had but little scholastic training, but he was a man of sound judgment anda good financier. Much credit is due him for the early government of the township.

Early Settlers

land now belonging to Isaac Wissinger, was the first white man to live in the present limits of the township. Others say that the honor of being the first settler belongs to John Wilson, who built a cabin in 1838, on land belonging Joseph Shepler. Maston Thomas, John Betzner and Joel Julian came in 1839. In 1840, Jacob Kellar and William Clark built their little cabins ia the woods and they were followed the next year by Isaac VanDoren and Moses Larimer. In 1842 a dozen or more families settled in the township. Ic 1843, the settlers and their iocations were as follows: Maston Thomas and his father in the north-west corner of the township; - Horner on the Wm. Rife place. From Horner's cabin to Peru, a distance of four miles, along the river, all was a dense forest, not a tree amiss, not a road, not a foot path. John Betzuer lived where Wallick's mill is; Jerry Shafer, just above the lime kiln; Isaac Marquiss, on the old Saine farm; Jacob Kellar, where David Dailey now lives; - Walters, where Wm. Graft lives; Wm. Clark, where David Graft now lives; John Bair. where Hugh Plummer lives; James Petty, on land now owned by Stephen Cripe and Emery Puteriaugh; David Carr, on land now belonging to Stephen Cripe; Samuel Durand, where Isaac Wissinger now lives; Wm Little, where Louis Little lives; Joel Julian, where Mort Smith lives; Stephen Abrams where John Stoner lives; Hermann Spermbarger. east of where John Bowser lives; Isaac VanDoren where Charles Mills now lives; - Shirley, where Jackson Van- Doren lives; Godfroy Helderle, where Jacob Hessong lives; Jacob Potorff, just east of Leonida; James Lewis, where Jacob Brandt lives; Peter Boyer, on land now owned by the Mays heirs; John Reed, where his widow lived until her death which occurred in January, 1896; Daniel Rife, where Jacob Rife now lives. In 1843 there were five families in the township, living south of Big Pipe creek. 'There are now four persons in the township that were living there in the Spring of 1843, namely: Mrs. VanDoren Jacob Rife, Wm. Rife aud Jamima Foust,

The townsbip was rapidly settled in 1844 and °45 by a sturdy class of pioneers. Among the number may be mentioned John and Eli Oliver, James

McGinnis, Henry Crabb, - Gennis, Noah Townsend, Wm. Parker, Cornelius Cain; Jacob Keilar, Thomas Kenworthy, Thomas Dillard and Benjamin Hann. During the next two years came David and John Cain, Nathaniel Nicoles - Hoover, Alleu Jones, Samuel and Cornelius Sullivan and others. Among the earliest settlers after that are the names of Isaac Haynes, George Wright, John Hann, Reuben Sbeneberger, Stephen Metzger, David and Samuel Bryson, John nd Daniel Duckwall, Samuel Murray and Samuel Duece.

Religious History

Dorens, later that same year. Rev. Samuel Duece, a Baptist minister, organized the first religious society, and the Baptists built the first house of worship in 1848, A large number of the sturdy and substantial farmers of the

# house of worship was ereeted in the north part of the township, on a halt acre of land donated by Washington Lynch. Services were not held here very long by the United Brethern, and other denominations occupied the church at intervals.

The Pleasant Hill Christian chureh was organized in 1865 by Elder Waymav. There were fourteen charter members, namely: J. W. Brandt, M. A. Brandt. A. A. Brandt, John P. Britton, Daniel Marken, Nancy Marken, Eva Winters, Harriett Hopper, N. D. Nicoles, N. E. Nicoles. Mary E. Mendenhall, Joha W. Byrket, Granville E. Mendenhall and Jane Reed. Jacob Brandt and N. P. Nicoles were the first elders and Peter Rife and Grandville Mendenhall were the firstdeacons. 'They erected a frame house of worsbip 30x40 feet in 1875 on land belonging to Jacob Brandt. They worshiped in this chureh until about eight years ago, when they bought a house in Oaward. 'The old house was sold to Alexander Howard. who moved it to Onward for a residence.

The first school house buile in the township was in the Winter of 1843- "44, on land now owned by Jacod Brandt, and the first school was taught by Mr. Brandt. There were no public schools for four or five years later. The pioneer teachers received $8 or $10 per month and '-boarded round with the scholars." The school property of the township is to-day in excellent condition, and the schools are. up to the standard. D. W. Erbaugh, a successful teacher himself is the trustee and. takes deep interest in the progress of the schools. A complete history of the schools will be found under chapter thirteen.

Pipe Creek township, on account of its natural provisions of water power, was at an early period, the seat of many small industries. The first was a saw mill, built by Frank Godfroy, in 1835. near where the Wallick mill now is. About the year 1455, Henry Kneli built a mill on Big Pipe creek. on land now owned by Christopher Shively. It was a saw mill, with a corn cracker attacked and stood until about the year 1871. Thomas Kenworthy, about the year 1856, built a saw mill on Big Pipe creek. He managed it for several years and then sold to D. B. Shively, who erected a touring mill at the same place in 1872. These were later sold to John Dackwall and were torn down and moved away. Dackwall had a suw mill and a grist mill just east of Shiveley's and bought them to destroy compztition. John Dackwall erected his saw mill in 1850 and five years later a large grist mill. He did a very larce and lucrative business for a number of years. Both miils were consumed by "fre in 1857. 'Che saw mill was rebuiit the same spring and the grist mill i 1876. In 1886 the erist mill was complete!; remodlcd, and was operated until 1892, when it became the subject of litigation and was closed.

About the year 1855, R. T. Jones built a saw mill on his piace and did a very large business in sawing and shipping, until 1875, when the mill burned, The Wallick grist mill was built 1855. and for twenty years or more had a very laree custom trade. The lime plant just south of the mill was built in 1866.

Atan early period a distilery was erected in the north part of the township and was run for a year or more by Charles Lewy with great success. _He sold to parties who soon quit the business and permitted the mill to fall into

By James A. Meek

The town of Bunker Hill was platted in 1851 by James Myers, Joh Duckwall and Alexander Galbraith, proprietors. The original town includee 46 lots. In June, 1852, Jonn Duckwal) platted an addition of 24 lots.

The first house built on the origiaal town site was a small dwelling erected in 1851, by James Myers on lot 13, which is in north Bunker Hill, and ie known at present 43 the Sammy Galbraith property. Dr. Hubbard was one of the earliest settlers of the town. He was aot only a practicioner of medicine, but was the first merchant in Bunker Hill. His building was located on Elm street near the Galbraith property. 'The Dr. was a singular genius. He was a great trader, and it is said that often, when called in a hurry to see a patient, he stopped on his way to buy a yearling calf or trade horses. Returning from a sick call, he would dismount from his horse anywhere near home, pull off saddle and bridle throw them on the ground, and let his hurse run, and upon being called again he would hunt up the fragments, put them together und off he'd go to see his patient, provided no one bantered him for a trade along the way. He was the first and only doctor [ ever know who carried his medicines in a quart tin pail. But with all his eccentricities he made money. In the year 1858, Bunker Hill numbered ten or a dozen houses. On the 23rd of April of that year when { located in the village, the only business building was a blackmith shop owned by R. T. Jones and Charles Mason. Leonda was, at that time, in its zenith, and it was very humiliating for Bunker Hillians to be compelled to go there for their mail, tobacco, coffee or any of the necessities of life. But 'tis said +-Distance lends enchantment to the view." We had plenty of enchantment, for we went four miles to vote and a mile to church, while our log school house was way out in the '*bush." But this state of affairs soon changed. 'Fhe postoffice was moved to Bunker Hill in 1859. Ewing & Howard sold goods in 1861 at the corner of Fourth and Main streets, in the building recently owned by J. G. Hederick. This building was for years continuously used by different merchants, viz; D. Duckwall, J. Arnold, D. H. & John. Cain; A. Bell, James Cain, Frank Hartman and Simon Kalter.

In the meantime John Finney had erected a building at the corner of the L. E. & W. Railroad grounds and Fifth street, which was occupied as a store room by Eli Hochstedler, and afterwards used for a postoffice By dae Liston, P. M. About this time Bunker Hill began showing signs of prosperity and the prospects for the building of the Pan Handle R. R. began to brighten. The origioal survey had been made some fifteen years previous, and the citizens: had given up all hopes of its completion, but rumors became rife that the road would be built and from 1866 to 1873, Bunker Hill was on a boom, and more veal estate changed hands during that time than did before and since in the history of the town.

During the year 1866, J. Av Meek built the first dwelling house south: of the Pan Handle, at the southwest corner of Elm street and Broadway. In January, 1868, the ?

Last Spike

rods this side of the big trestle, about a mile west of town. 'The event was celebrated by the officials from Logansport and other places on the line by meeting here and seeing the last spike driven.

They brought with them a car or cargo of beer, and it being free to all, our citizens and the «rest of mankind" had the pleasure of 'enjoying themselves," and it was said that many improved the opportunity. At the close of the imposing(?) ceremony of finishing the work, the company gave free transportation to all who wished to go to Logansport, where a free dinner was given to all who were present.

Immediately after the completion of the above road, additions were laid out south of it, and the town improved rapidly with good buildings, and the population increased by the incomiug of good, substantial, enterprising citizens.

The first business house south of the Pan Handle R. R. was erected in Hendrix's addition in the year 1867, by A. D. & Joseph Jones, on the north side of Broadway, immediately west of Dr. Wilson's property, and soon after Dr. Wilson erected the building in which he now lives,

The following is a list of names of some of the earlier business men of the town since the completion of the Pan Handle road: C. T. Miller started the first hardware store in 1871, and afterward sold the same to Patterson & Meek. In, August, 1871. Kalter & Keegan started the first boot and shoe store; Patterson the first drug store. Other business men were identified with the commercial interests of Bunker Hill from 1868 to 1873, viz: W.T. Wilson, S. J. Hockman. D. T. Gilmore, J. B. McKinney, N. W. Trissal, J. F. Busey, S. Somers, T. Scott, J. F. Reynold, G. W. Biue, and others.

The earlier mechanics of Bunker Hill were C. B. Mason, R. T. Jones and J. Lamborn, blacksmiths; A. Morris and H. P. Coffman, carpenters; I. Valentine, tinner; Rev. Lane and A. Billheimer & Son, cabinet makers; J. P. Neimen was the first shoemaker. The medical men located in Bunker Pill in succession are Drs. Hubbard. Meek, Wilson, Irvin, McClurg, Cain, McDowell Davis, Cooper, Hayes. Orr, Cox, Gregg, Crunkleton, Haworth, Matthews, Gilbert and Bacon, 'The present are Meek, Wilson, Gilbert and Bacon.

The First Hotel

was built by Geo. Larimer about 1868 and is a part of the present hote] building at the railroad crossing. R. Jones and W. Busey were the first proprie tors. The management changed hands several times until W. R. Breckenridge purchased the property about 1871, and refitted and added several necessary improvements making it the most desirable hotel property outside of the county seats between Michigan City and Indianapolis and for a time the property was a bonanza for Breckenridge, while trains on both roads stopped for meals. About 1880 Breckenridge sold the property tu S. Gross, of Winamac, who retained the ownership for avout fourteen years when he sold the property to Ralston Fulmer. of Pennsylvania, in January 1894. From the year 1880 to 1892, W. W. Kobbins was the caterer for the traveling public with whom the house became very popular and for years retained a successfully lucrative business.

From the time Mr. Robbins left the house until purchased by Fulmer, attempts were made by several different parties to re-establish business but vot meeting with the expected snecess, they did not remain long and the building was vacant a considerable portion of the time.

On taking possession of the property, Mr. Flumer gave it a complete overhauling and renovating. repairing and repainting, which has added greatly to the comfort and the beauty of the same, and it is now popularly known as the *-Park Hotel."

About the year 1870 Tom Conners erected the building on the Pan Hundle R, R. east of the crossing and for a tim» used it for a hotel wid boarding house, but he did not remain long. and the building was rented at different times by various parties for hotel purposes, prominent among our present vitizens is J. V. Mays. Jacob Garnand and Joho N. Hutfiman. th» latter nameing it the --Massasoit House." The building was also used at one time for depot and telegraph purposes. It is now rented for a dwelling house and is owned by a citizen of Indianapolis.

The first church building erected in the town was by the Baptists in 1860 and on a Jot donated by John Duckwall and James Myers. The present large frame building is a part of tha original structure. It is now the largest chnrch building in the place and is said to have a seating capacity of five hundred. Among the pastors were the folowing: Revs. William Cool, Leonard Cevol, Mr. Coon, John Blodget, B. R. Ward, N. Harper. C. Boaz, L. D. Robinson, E. J. Delp, H. McDonald, R. Mvove, J. B. Bair, J. H. Schenck and O. M Merrick. J. B. Bair is the present pastor. John Bowser is Sunday school superintendent. The present trustees are James Hann, Cyrus Baker and William Krouder. Prominent among the members are Benjamin Hann, who has held a continuous membership in this denomination for more than half a century, almost the entire time in this township He and Join Haggerty and wife are the only surviving pioneer members, to whom the orvanization owes much for its present prosperity.

Methodist Chukch

tees having charge of the same were D. Duckwall, L. Snoderly, A. Lamborn. D. Cain and D. Huckman. The Rev. George Havens was pastor at the time o the dedication, which occurred in 1870. 'The dedicatory services were conducted by Rev. W. R. Kistler. 'The following are the names of pastors officiating since, viz: Revs. Williams, Muller, Klingle, Parrot, Leanord, Preston. Cooper. Lowry. Naftsger, Jackson, Albertson, Davis, MeElwee, Osborne. and C. E. Davis, the present pastor. The trustees aro now D. Diexwall, E. N. Brower. W. W. Mullen. Jacob Moore and Alexaader Howard.

Secret Societies

erected their present neat frame building at tbe corner of Fourth and Ein streets in 1882. at a cost of $1,300. Previous to that time Kev. Father Krvever and Weichman had charge of the society. During the erection of the ehureb editice. Father Kelly was in charge. Since then Fathers Twigg. Jay, Grogan acd tauderman - the latter bzing the present pastor. The churen is in a fairly prosperous condition with a membership of about fifteen familie<, SEVENTH DAY ADVENTISTS erected their frame church edifice on Elm street in Duckwall's addition, in 1882 and for a long time had an earnest class of workers, but the removal of quite a number of them to distant localities left the churuh nunerically weak. p. ©. Hoffman their leader, for a long time held religious services weekly and to him the denomination was also largely indebted for their church building. Of late. Bowever, their denominational services have been discontinued und the Dankards have been usinz the building for their meeting every two or three weeks. SECRET SOCIETIES. BUNKER ULL LODGE, 369, 1. 0. v. P.

avas instituted Juve 16. 1871, with the following charter members: J. A. Meek, Cyrus Baker. P. Keegan. J. LL. Hobson, D. Baker, J. Bennett, N. W. 'Trissal. G. W. Mort, B. Sulavan and W. B. Patterson. After organization the following officers were elected and appointed: J. A. Meek, N. G.; N. w, Trissal, V. G.; P. Keegan, tinancial and recording secretary and W. B. Patte,- son, treasurer. They built a hall at the corner of Broadway and Elm streets in 1873, at a cost of $1500, and have used it continuously since for loage purposes. Only four of the charter momers are members of this lodge at present, rig: C. Baker, «P. Keegan. (r. W. Mort and J. A Meek. The following are the was organized May 12, 1875, with twenty-eight members, only four of whom are present members - R. C. Foor, P. Keegan, J. A. Meek and Susan Bussard. This lodge has had several 'resting spells" since its organization, but each time has revived with renewed energy and determination to perpetuate its charter. At the present time the lodge numbers about 52 contributing members, # great majority of whom are heart and band in the works of Faith, Hope and Charity. 'The officers of the lodge at present are: Cordelia M. Keegan, N. G.; Nettie George, V. G.; Mary Duckwall, treasurer; R. C. Foor, recording secretary; J. A. Meek, financial secretary. Regular meetings are held every alternate Tuesday night.

was organized November 1, 1882, with about thirty charter members, notwithstanding thirteen years have passed since its organization and death and removal has left less than half the charter members, yet they have a good, healthy organization with a contributing membership of ninteen who are closely bound together in the bonds of fraternity. They meet every alternate Saturday evening in their ball in the Duckwall building. The following are the present officers: Commander, S. Finney; J. V. Commander, D. Dusivg; Surgeon, J. G. Hochstedtler; O. D.. J. Brake; Adj, J. G. Hedrick; S. V. Commander, A. D. Jones; Chaplain. J. Wagler; Q. M.. R. C. Foor; O. G., G. W. Armstrong; Sarj. Major, N. Hoovor; Q. M. Sarjeant, L. Shero. THE WOMEN'S RELIEF CORPS, 158.

was organized April, 1, 189], with fifteen charter members, and has shown a constant increase since its orgranization. 'The present officers are as follows: President, Mrs. K. Schenck; V. President, 4. A. Apzer; J, V. Mary Hedrick; Chaplain. Mary Metzzer; Secretary, Miss E. Fording: Treasurer. Mrs. R. Liston. Meetings are held every alternate Saturday evening in the G. A. R, hall

Bunker Hill Lodge, No. 299, K. Of P.

George Funk, and Appollo Lodge of Logansport Indiana. The officors for the first term were the following, to wit: W. H. Hull, P. C.: J. H. Neff, C. Cuz Samuel Myefs, K. C.; W. O. Oden, Prelate; Orlando Finney, K. R. S:3 Charles Reed, M. A.: George Clem, M. E.; and Harman Betaner. M. 5.

The Buoker Hill Lodge K. of P. has had yood and faithfcl workers at the front, is manifest by the fact that in the first eighteea months' history the lodge almost trebled its orginal number, having at that time fifty-five members in good standing. 'The present officers are: Wm. Allen, C. C.:N. Reder, V. C.; J. H. Neff, K. of R, S.; F. Engle, M. of E C.; Chas. Reed. M. of F.; By Crowder, M. of A. The Lodge meets on Wednesday evening of each week, and confers first. second and third rarks on the first, second and third Wednesday evenings respectively of each month.

Bunker Hill Yent No. 101 was organized February 8, 1895, with twenty-seven charter members by Supreme Depty Commander, H. F. Crim and J. G. Phillips. 'The following officers were duly elected and installed for the year: P. ©. J. H. Neff; C., William Allen; L. C., Warren Morrow; R. K., Abe Rees; F. K., Fred Engel; Chap., Winfield Mullen; Serg., Louis Betzner; M. at A., Frank Mullen; ist M. of G.. Sol Boyer; 2nd M. of G., James Starkey; S., Charles Benner; P., Marion McDowell. The lodge meets every Thursday evening in the Pythian hall.

The independent Order of Good Templars was organized April 19, 1898, with twenty-three charter members. Their meetings were held every Monday 'evening in the Pythian hall with the following corps of officers: .C. T., Samuel Trick; V. T., Rosa McDowell; R. S., Delia Keegan; A. R. S., Minnie Fin ney; Treas., Mattie Hartman; F, S.. R. N. Reder; Chap., Rev. C. E. Davis; Mar., Dora Wagler; D. M., Ethel Jones: S., George Clem; G., Thomas Vore; P. C. T., Mrs. Kittie Schenck; Deputy, Fred Tallman.

The First Newspaper

Enterprise in Bunker Hill was The Village News, established im 1873, by Jasper H. Keyes, who run it for about one year, when he retired, leaving the property in the hands of a joint stock company. In 1874.E. M. Howard, one of the stock hplders, took charge of the plant and enlarged the paper to an eight-page paper and changed the name to the Bunker Hill News. Iv a short time John F. Busey bought the office and George T. Metzger was installed as editor. he name of the paper was again changed and it was called the In- 'dependent Press and was reduced to a four-page paper. Within a few months Busey sold the plant to D. P. Stuart and George T. Metzger, and the former jecame the recognized editor. After publication for a year or more the above firm sold the outfit to Paul Walters and Oliver A. Larimer. Mr. Waiters, by 'the way, had been connected with the paper from its earliest history and -enjoyed the reputation of having been one of the first devils. Charles Sullivan preceeded him as devil anl compositor under Keyes. In a short time Larimer purchased Walters' interest, and soon after sold an interest to Joseph Larimer, un ex-clerk of the county, and Larimer & Larimer, during 1880, became editors and proprietors, and they again changed it to an eight-page paper and called it the Bunker Hill Press. In 1882 the Larimers sold the office to Charles Jerrel. who run the paper a short time and soid the same to John W. O'Hara. He in time sold the same to C. W. Jones, who run the same successfully for two or three years. However, on the memorable morning of January 26, 1890, when the great conflagration visited our town and consumed a dozen business rooms on Broadway, the Press office was laid in ashes and every vestige of printing material was destroyed. Mr. Jones, however, with commendable energy, purchased a new outfit and in a very short time the Press was again thrown to the breeze. Mr. Jones, after refitting the office, leased it to J. E. Smith and F. Martin, who run the paper but a few months and the plant was leased to Thomas J. O'Hara, who run it until January, 1892. when J. H. Stephens leased th; offica. Aftsr a short time be purchased the same, having found it to be asafe and profitable investment. Stephens, in connection with the Press, started the Stock and Farm, an eight-page agricultural paper, on the 5th day of August, 1893. Its circulation extended to parts of Indiana, Ohio and Illinois. He continued the publication of both

D. D. Spangler issued a four-page paper, which was called The Sword. This enterprise only flourished for three months, when on the ist of November, 1894, the printing material fell into the hands of C. A. Knepper, who rebap~ tize i ths new paper as the Bunker Hill Press, and ou February 28th, 1395, W. O. Oden became associated with Knepper in the publication, and they enlarged it t») an eizht-page papsr. Uader their management the Press fast come to the front as one of the rewsiest papers in the county outside of the county seat, and is rapidly increasing its circulation.

During the year 1868 a good, substantial, two-story, two-room brick schoo! house was erected in the corporation, and from time to time when considered necessary additions and repairs were inade to the original structure until it became a two-story, four-room building. In the latter part of the year 1894, however, the question was agitated in refercnce to its safety, and its capacity to furnish room for the accommodation of the pupils, and whether it was better to repair and enlarge the old building or build a new one. This question was argued pro and con, during the Winter and early Spring, but there was no definite decision, or at least no tangible movement made ia reference to the matter until April Ist, 1895. At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of the town a resolution was offered add adopted by the Board to appropriate to the special school fund the sum of $25, to be expended by the school trustees, ig necessary, to secure information, plans and specifications for the erection of a school building. May 20, 1895, the school board made a report under oath which was filed with the clerk and on motion it was ordered that an ordinance be passed to issue bonds to the amount of $8,000; on the said motion trustee

Pipe Creek Townsgip

Bazner voted no. Mr. Bazner moved that the board of school trustees of the town of Bunker Hill employ a competent person to make an examination of the school building of such town and report in writing to this board. First, whether such building is unsafe, and if so in what respect, and can it be made safe, and at what cost. Second. whether such building is in suitable repair and condition for school purposes; and if not, in what respect, and the cost of such repairs. Third, whether such building is reasonably, sufficient rooming capacity to the general attendance of scholars; and if not, what .additional room is needed and the cost of the same to build in connection with the building. Ayes, Bazner; nays, Rees, Haggerty and Cleary.

Qn June 8, 1895, the Board adopted an ordinance for the issuing of bonds. July 6, 1895, on motion, the clerk was ordered to sell bonds as soon as practicable. July 20, 1895, the Board of Trustees entered into a contract with Moses Rosenthal for the sale of bonds to the amount of $7,000. August 5, 1895 the school house bonds - fourteen in number - were ordered signed by the President and countersigned by the Clerk. 'The above is the financial history for the erection of the school building, as shown by the records of the Town. After assurance of financial aid from the Board of Trustees of the Town, the School Board, consisting of J. P. Neimen, J. H. Neff and Alvin Weckler, employed Architect L. V. Sybrant, of Gas City, to furnish plans and specifications for a five-room, two-story brick building, 55 by 55 feet, with Kruse & Dewenter's fire furnace heaters and dry closet system. The plans and specificatiuns adopted were modeled from the fine school building at Gas City. Immediately, and during the month of July, the contract for the buiiding was let to the lowest bidder, which was let to Baker and Davis, of Bunker Hill, for the sum of $6,739.70. They immediately entered upon the work by tearing down the old building preparatory to erecting the new one. The building, which is about completed, will compare favorably with any school building in the county for comfort, convenience and architectural beauty, reflecting great credit on all who were connected with its erection, and an ornament to the Town and surrounding vicinity.

In 1868 the schools were graded, Prof. Oscar A. King and Miss Allice Williams being Principal and assistant. Since then the following have been in the line of succession: Profs. A. McW.*Bollman, George Curtis, George Snyder, I. D. Miller, W. H. Williams, J. H. Robinson, J. W. O'Hara, J. H. Neff, H. W. High, J. S. Snethen and W. M. Pavy. who is present superintendent, with the following corps of teachers for the term of 1895 and 1896: Anna Tuey, grammar department; J. H. Whitcomb, second primary; Carrie Betzner, first primary.

In the early part of the year, 1882, the incorporation of the town was was talked atout and a portion of our citizens proposed making an effort towards accomplishing the same on the 10th day of August of that year. Mr. John Finney took an enumeration of the inhabitants in the contemplated territory and reported +ix hundred and fifteen persons.

A petition headed by John Busey and Harris Jenness, containing the names of sixty-one taxpayers, was presented to the county comiissioners on

September 6, 1882, asking for the incorporation of the town. The Commis, sioners granted an election to be held on the 21st day of October, which resulted in one hundred and twenty one ballots being cast, eighty-four in favor of iacorporation, and thirty-seven against. On December 6, 1882, the commissioners in regular session canvassed the result of the election and being duly satisfied of the legality of the same, ordered and declared that said territory has been incorporated as the Town of Bunker Hill.

The Town was divided into three districts and the first election for corporation officers was held November 15, 1882, and resulted in the following selections:

Trustee, first district. R. C. Foor; second district, C. Baker; third district, H. P. McDowell; Marshal, William Jones; clerk and treasurer, J. 'A. Meek. On April 10, 1893, John Bazner was appointed street commissioner. The jail was built the following Spring.

Eleetion May, 1883. - Trustee first district, R. C. Foor; second, C. Baker; third, S. Finney; Marshal, Wm. Jones; Clerk and 'Treasurer, J. A. Meek. April 14, 1884, the trustees redistricted the Town making five districts.

Election, May, 1884, - Trustee first district, H. Jenness, one year; second, J. S. Walther, two years; third, S. Finney. one year; fourth, ©. Seward. two year; fifth. ©. Baker. two years; Marshal, W. N. Wilson; Clerk and Treasurer, J. A. Meek. September 22. 1884, Marshal Wilson resigned and Sam. uel Armstrong was appuinted. September 24, Mr Armstrong declined and J. G. Aederick was appointed and accepted. April 13th. trustee Walther of second district resigned, and his successor was elected the fol-: lowing May.

Election May, 1885. - Trustee first district, G. Armstrong. two years; second, I, Cooper, one year; third, S. Finney, two years: fifth. C. Baker two years; Marshal, J. G. Hederick; Clerk and 'Treasurer, R. C. Foor.

Election, May, 1888- - Trustee, second district, J. Bigger, two years; fourth district, J. Duckwall, two years; marshal, Sam Lindemuth; clerk and treasurer, J. A. Meek. April 14, 1888, street lamps (nine) purchased. June 35, bids received for lighting same awarded to W. Kendall at 10 cents per night. September 6, 1888. engine house contract let to J. A. Swortzell for $19.50. August 25, Marshal Lindemuth resigned; August. 28, Samuel Hale appointed. August 28, Trustee Fansler, third district. resigned; September 6, J. P. Neimen appointed. March 30, 1889, Mare shal Hale resigned, and J. F. Cain was appointed.

Election May, 1890. - Trustee second district, A. H. Todd, two years; fourth, J. Quinn, two years; Marshal, R. N. Reder; Clerk and Treasurer, J. A. Meek. September 9, 1890, Marshal Reder resigned. September 10, John Anderson appointed. April 9, 1891, stone crossings laid on Broadway. April 6, 1891, theBoard employed Prof. High to establish grade for streets and side walks in the Town and to furnish corner stones for corners of the same for the sum of $25.00. May 7, Board paid Prof. High $7.50 for Town map. :

Election, May,1891 - Trustee first district, W. O. Oden, two years; third, J. P. Neiman two years; fifth, T. J. O'Hara, two years; Marshal, J. 'I'. Anderson; Clerk and Treasurer, J. A: Meek. August 17,1891, Marshal Anderson resigned. September 21, H.C. Thompson appointed; Mr. Thompson xot qualifying. September 28, J. Mumaugh was appointed. Mr. Mumaugh not qualifying, October 12, M. A. Lawless was appointed. February 1, 1892, T. J. O'Hara, fifth district, resigned. April 4, 1892 an ordinance was passed granting Ira Collins or successors the right to construct and maintain gas pipe lines for heating and lighting purposes in the town for fifty years. i.

Election, May, 1892. - Trustee second district, A. H. Todd, two years; fourth. J. Duckwall, two years; fifth, W. W. Mullen, one year; Marshal, F. Mitchel; Clerk and Treasurer, O. Finney.

Election, May, 1893. - Trustee first, district, Wm. Liston, two years; third, K Fletcher. two years; fifty, C. Baker, two years; Marshal, M. Lawless; Clerk and Treasurer, O. Finney.

Election, May, 1894. - Trustee second district, F. M. Mullen, two years; third,. G. W. Clem, one year, to fill unexpired term of E. Fletcher, deceased. Trustee fourth district, A. Howard, two years; Marshal. Perry Bickle; Clerk and Treasurer, W. W. Mullen. December 3th, Marshal Bickle resigned. December 10th. Benjamin Lawhorn was appointed. February 4, 1895, A. Howard, fourth district, resigned.

Election, May, 1895. - Trustee first district,P. Cleary, two year; third, A. Rees, two years; fourth, J. Bazner, one year; fifty, A. Haggerty. two years Marshal, M. A. Lawless; Clerk and Treasurer, Charles Keed. June 3rd, Trustee Bazner, fourth district, resigned. July 6th, J. E. Smith was appointed to fill the unexpired term.

School Board

SCHOOL BOARD. he following is a list of the members of the School Board serving since the incorporation: June, 1883, L. J. Vore, elected to serve one year; Timothy Scott, two years; J. E.. Garnand, three years. April 30, 1894, Scott resigned and Eugene Fletcher was appointed to serve the unexpired term, to June, 1855. June 9,

J. Duckwal] was elected for three years, but Mr. Duckwall doubted his eligibility to serve, as he was one of the Trustees of the Town, and therefore refused to qualify, and Paris Hoover was elected to serve until June, 1891. June,

Cleary was elected for three years, ur to June. 1894. June, 1892, G. W. Blue was elected for three years, or to June, 1895. Mr. Blue resigned June 5, 1893, and W. O. Oden was appointed. June 5, 1893, Alvin Weckler was elected for three years, or to June, 1896. June 4, 1894, Dr. F. J. Crunkleton was elected for three years, or to June, 189%. May 6, 1895,-Dr. Crunkleton resigned, and J. H. Neff was appoiated. June 3, 1895, J. P. Neiman was elected for three years, or to June, 1898.

'The village of Leonda was platted in July, 1851, by Jacob Potarf and Harvey Hoover. The platt was surveyed by George W. Goodrich. It was located about a mile north of where Bunker Hill was laid off that same year The two villages were bitter rivals, and Leonda was by far the largest until the location of the Pan Hanale rail road through Bunker Hill. Harvy Hoover yet lives on the site of the deserted village. The platt contained seventy-two lots, thirty-six on each side of the L. E. & W. rail road. Walter P. Shaw was the first merchant. Arnold, Samuel Jones and Henry Rosenthal established stores there shortly after Mr. Shaw. Dr. Rollen Hufford was the first physician aod was followed by Drs. Murphy and Albaugh. 'The mechanics were Payton Jenkins and Mr. Cook, wagon makers; Frederick Betzuer, James Bevans, Henry Poor and John P. Neimen, shoemakers; Thomas Ewing and William Holipeter, cabinet makers. The postoffice was removed to Bunker Hill in 1859. The business men then moved to that place. or left the place for some more promising village.. There were at one time about thirty houses in the village, and now only three or four farm dwellings mark the spot.

Physical And Mathematical Description

ERRY TOWNSHIP is the largest political division in the county. It is P bounded on the north and east by Fulton and Wabash counties, respectively; south by Richland township; west by Union and Allen townships. The surface is high and rolling and hilly along the streams, 'The soil is a sandy loam, resting upon aclay subsoil. The general featurcs ot the surface indicate that this territory was at one time covered by big ponds or small lakes. Possibly in the dim past it was covered with one broad expanse of water, which was the southern margin of the Great Lakes. By Nature's slow process and the ingenuity of man, these lands have been reclaimed, and the ponds and sloughs and wilderness haven been made to ''blossom as the rose." se EARLY SETTLERS. ; The first settlers of this township years ago passed to their fathers. -

They have left enduring evidences of their worth and character 'They wre men endured to toil and hardships. Though they had little knowledge and less science, they were men of sterling worth, full of strong, clear s2nse, Though they lived in a hut built of logs, it was no palace concealing gu lt. Their lives were frank, open and free. What little they had was common among them. When the new settler arrived they went to him to see if there was anything he wanted. His wife and children were sheltered until they had raised their own rude house; if provisions were wanted, they were s..pplied. Every one took a delight in ''helpin' a neighber through." 'That old cabin, with a small patch of corn near it, surrounded by a dense woods, with the old dog lying in front of the door, the cat on the floor by the big, open fire place and tiie mother busy at the spinning wheel, is a picture worthy of the most renowned painter. History gives James Malcolm the glory of being the first white man to take up his residence in what is now Perry township. He year William Akright came and built his cabin near him. 'These first two settlers received a number of neighbors in 1835. These were John and Adam Rhodes, [ra Mitchell, John Close, James Waddle, Peter Onstatt, James Fiers, Rev. Wesley Borders, Charles and James Cleland, Joseph Wildmau, Benjamin and David Marquiss and a few others. During the year of 1839 quite a number arrived, and by the close of 1839 a great portion of the land had been entered at the land office. On February 27, 1837, by act of the county commissioners, Perry township was set off as a distinct political district.

The Early Industries

Of the township were very limited on account of the lack of water power. It is said that the first mill of the township was built about 1849 and was owned and operated by John Bowers. This was a saw mill and was run by water from a branch of Squirrel creek. Four or five years later Alfred Dowd built 4 steam saw mill just west of Gilead. Some time in the fifties, John Anglehart built a distillery in the northern part of the township, which was operated for some years with some suc'ess, until Uncle Sam closed the mill on account of disobedience to hislaws. 'There lived 1n an early day a quaint old woman who distilled whiskey in a common teakettle and obtained a livelihood by retailing the same to such customers as saw fit to patronize her bar. Her little cabin stood near one of the principal highways of the country, and many of the passersby found it quite convenient to stop and -:warm their toes" by the generous fire which the old lady never let die out. It was equally convenient in the summer time, the shadow of the house being the ''coolest spot in the entire neighborhood."

Peter Onstatt was the first blacksmith in this new territory. When he arrived in 1836 he put up a shed on his farm and tnere did blacksmithing for his neighbors. In 1840 John Daggy built a tannery and carried on the business for a number of years.

The Wolves

THE WOLVES Were w great menace to the early settlers. They were at first very numerous and there were yet quite a oumber as late as 1847, more than twelve years after the arrival of the first settler. No sheep fold or pig sty was safe from these troublesome animals. 'They at last became such a nuisance that every man .and boy able to shoulder a gun and club, met and organized themselves into a hunting party. Hiram Butler was one of the captains and with his *eoon skin cap and his hunting jacket «'he cut a mighty figure." They surrounded a great strip of territory and drove the animals tothecenter. As they closed in they shot some deer and much small game. They finally all surfounded a swamp, cnasing the game in there. 'Two wolves were seen. John Grogg was selected to enter the swamp, which he did with the tread ot a Nimrod and killed one of the wolves with bis own gun, and the other was killed by the tire from the guns of the pioneers.

Counterfeiters And Horse Thieves

Perry township was early the principal headquarters of a gang of counterfeiters and horse thieves. 'These two classes were united in their efforts to. rob and evade the law. John Van Camp, who lived where Jonas Cleland lived until his death a few years ago, was the ring leader of the counterfeiters. He was a very shrewd man. At his house he made the counterfeit and sold $100 of it to the gang for $25 of good money. 'They hardly ever passed this in the immediate vicinity. Van Camp was a very suspicious character and kept himself concealed as much as possible.

An incident in connection with thier presence in this part of the county is told by a certain man who ingratiated himself into the mysteries of the ring general favorite with the outlaws and such was-the confidence imposed in him that he was at one time intrusted with the plan of carrying out a daring robbery in Marshall county, to accomplish which the murder of an old man seemed almost necessary. The whole arrangements for the robbery were skillfully planned and after everything had been gotten in readiaess for putting the authorities at Rochester who were not slow in putting the officers of justice on their tracks. The whole plot was so admirably arranged by the daring detective that the outlaws implicated were captured almost to a man, and in the trail which followed several were convicted and sent to the state prison. One of the counterfeiters was put in the Peru jail. One cold winter night when the snow was severdl inches deep he broke out. For some reason unknown he ieft his boots in the jail. He tore the lower part of his pants leggings off and wrapped them around his feet and in the dead of acold winter night escaped to Fulton county. Early the next morning Hiram Butler came by Grogg's cabin and shouted out: «'John. come out here, I'm on a coon track." Butler and Grogg tracked the escaped counterfeiter to a cabin in Fulton county. After searching the premises thoroughly they found him neatly concealed in bed, and when they turned the covers down he exclaimed: ''Boys, you've got me." This put an end to counterfei.ing in this part of the country. Hiram Butler and John Grogg were two sturdy pioneers, whom the lawless feared. To them and a few others of the goud old pioneers is due the credit of restor-

Early Schools

Jonas Cleland, one of the early trustees of Perry township, related to the writer some years ago, a story which illustrates to some extent the character of teachers and school officers of the pioneer days. A young man applied to teach school in Perry township and Mr. Cleland told him that he must be examined. Amer Robbins was the young aspirant. He went to the school examiner at Peru and found that busy gentleman at his desk. He demanded an examinatioa at once, saying that his folks were waiting for hin in the wagon and they wished to get home before dark. Ihe school examiner turned around in his chair, stuck his gouse quill pen back of his éar, and with a great deal of dignity turned his eyes upon the young aspirant. 'What is Federal money?" Robbins fixed his eyes on the floor for about five minutes, scratched his head, and then said. '-Why - well - well, Federal money is money which the old Federalists used to use." What is the meaning of Amphibious?" asked the examiner. ''Am-am-amphib-amphibious, why, thav is an amphibious animal."

Early Religzous History

The old examiner said that he hadn't time to give him a license that evening, and resumed his task at the desk. Robbins afterwards became one of the prominent early teachers, and would often tell the story of his first examination. ' EARLY RELIGZOUS HISTORY.

The first religious mvetings were held in the township by the Methodists as early as 1835, at the cabin of James Fiers and later at Alfred Doud's.

Rev. Arentis Doud and Ansel Beech conducted services from time to tite. The first house of worship was erected in Gilead in 1843 by the Methodists. Rev. Mr. Bannett was the first minister in the newchurch. Tae Baptists were the next to organize. They built a house of worship in 1858. The Evangelical Association erec ed a msetiug house the same year.

Gilead was founded about 1840 by Adam E. Rhodes, who surveyed and laid out a plat of twenty-nine lots. This village is situated a little north of the central part of the township, about eighteen miles north-east of Peru. 'The first resident of the town was a Mr. Swayzee. who was also the first merchant of the villege.

Stockdale is a deserted village, located on the Miami and Wabash county line in the south-eastern part of the township. The town was platted in 1837 by Thomas Goudy. It was for many years the trading point for a large area of country. 'The building of the Eel River road and the subse" quent growth of Roann was the death blow of Stockdale and its star has set never to rise again, 'The grist mili is all that is left. There are a few houses in the town, about half of which are tilted and so decayed that they are unfi for occupation.

State educational institution fund........... Stateidebt-sinkine fund)... 002.) ne oe oe State school. ; Permanent endowment pn puaieiiel Uni versnry: County tax. :

262 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Wim: E.Wooley tii' vcd. Ade. Shoo ieee oerer ade Posephc EL. Wait. nu. vi gis iw Gwe been de oes lee eee Win. ba Drake htt wat See es

RIE TOWNSHIP is the smallest political division in Miami county. It is E just half as large as Richland, which bounds it on the north. It lacks two square miles of being half as large as Perry, and a little more than half as large as Jefferson. It contains nineteen square miles. 'The southern boundary line traces the center of the Wabash river. Back of the broad valley of the Wabash is a belt of hills, extending east and west. Back of these the sur= face is high and level. The soil, especially along the river, is deep and fertile. This township contains many of the best cultivated farms and finest residences in the county.

The township was organized August 27, 1839, a little over two years after the completion of the Wabash and Erie canal, after which the township was finally named. It was, until September, 1847, called Black Hawk township. Several times the citizens petitioned the county commissioners to increase the size of the township by adding a strip from the eastern part of Peru, and from the southern part of Richland townships.

"The first man who trod the dense forest was Samuel McClure. He came in the Fall of 1827, and established an Indian trading post on the Abrabam Dingman farm. His business was that of trading exclusively, and consequently he made no attempts at improvement of any kind.

«So far as can be ascertained, no white man entered the township for the purpose of bringing the forests into a state of cultivation until 1835. In that year quite a number, being encouraged by the flattering prospects of the Wabash and Erie canal, entered the township, purchasing the land immediately adjoining thereto, and known as 'canal land.' They were Henry King, who settled on the Abraham Dingman farm; following him closely came James Burton, Joseph Fox, Joseph and Johu Hale, L. B. Bartlett, Pierre La Vonture, and Daniel Potter. In the year 1836 the following settled in the township: The father of William H. Fornash; Slath Cole, on the George Nichelson farm. In 1837 Horatio French became a permanent settler of the township. No one settled in the township in 1838, but in 1839 and 1840 a number of hardy tillers of the, soil located here, amoung whom may be mentioned Alfred Baker, John Misener, Auson Jewett, Morris Baker, Jeremiah Taylor, Joseph Fox and Lewis King. Those of 1841 and 1842 were W. and S. Henton, Solomon Wypbal, Silas Chalmers, John and James Bailey, Abner and William Beeson, Jeremiah Kaler,

John and William Nichelson, and Wright. 'The pioneers of 1843 and 1844 were Samuel Philabaum, (teorge Nichelson, A. Dingman, Pleasant Bell, Dorastus Chandler, Martin Kennedy, jacob Peer und John Carback. Among those who came soon after 1844 may be mentioned William Buit aud bis sons, Alfred Miller, Elam Henton, David Rep, Thomas Mann, Michael! Dice, David Zimmerman, Henry Niman, William Robinson. Jacob Hostetler, Charles and Daniel Henderson, William Lynd, Charles Rector, and others. CHARACTER OF EARLY 'TIMES.

_ George Nichelson, one of the pioneers who settled in the township in 1844, relates a story that illusteates the character of early times. He says that in the early days any voter could vote where he pleased in the county. It had been the custom to go to Peru and vote and then spend the day in hilarity. latoxicats were free and spirits high. There was always a half dozen or more fights during the day. Some big fellow who felt like a Samyson and Croesus over the effects of some one's treating strutted down the street swinging his arms as big as Pompey and challenyed any Democrat to a wrestle. George Nicholson was not willing to acvept the challenge himself, but he at once searched through the crowd for his old neighbor. Bill Hostetler, who had the awkward streneth of an ox. Hill accepted the challenge. A great crowd formed a ring, eager to see the wrestle. The first time Hostetler laid the bully on his back; the second and third time he threw him full length, hard enough to break every bone. 'he crowd shouted and roared and Hos-_ tetler was the hero. In those early time it was a very dull Saturday if there was not at least one fight.

Early Religious History

"The first religious meeting in the township was held at the cabin of Salathiel Cole by the Baptists, early in the forties, by Rev. John Davis." They had no regularly organized society. but maintained meetings for a number of years at the California schooi house. Revs. Cule and Witham preached to them from time to time.

The first religious organization in the township was made by the Methodists in the summer of 1846. About three years later, a log house was built as uw place of worship. A fine new church was erected in 1865, and the Methodists now have quite a strong organization.

'The United Brethren church was organized in 1849 at the residence of Samuel Philabaum. Among the early members were Samuel Philabaum and wife, Michael Dice and wife, David Repp and wife, David Zimmerman and wife, and Mrs. Barnett. The early mivisters were Revs. Mr. Peters. Hiram Freeman and Samuel Simons. A hewed log church was erected on land be. longing to Samuel Philabaum, in 1850. 'bey later built a fine house of worship on the same spot. The Christian church was early represented, but no organization was ever effected,

Early Events

The first saw mill was built at an early date, by a Mr. Williams. Two school houses were built in 1844, one on Samuel Philabaum's place. the other

Chapter Xxiii

HE writer and compiler of this history spent his boyhood days in Wash af? ington township and there for three winters ''taught the young idea how to shoot." It is impossible to relate the early history of this township and to refer to its pioneers without expressing sentimezt. It was here that the writer studied the physical and social, political and religious development of the country and people. 'The characters of nearly every novel and book read were associated with the pioneer familes. The farm house and the cabin that stood near it, the orchard, the fields. the creeks and the bare-foot boy, are now fanciful and ethical pictures to the writer. That dear, old foster mother. Susan Smith. who is yet living, is associated with what Horace P. Biddle pronounces as one of his most perfect verses:

Old fashioned mothers of the day, Whose bands, though hard with toil, Soft as the touch of anvels lay Upon the brow, whose smile Could make us happy in our tears, Whose words could reconcile Us to our pain, banish our fears. And all ouv woes beguile!" PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION.

The northern boundary line of Washington township is the center of the Wabash river to the mouth of the Mississinewa, thence it follows the latter. The eastern boundary formerly extended to the Wabash and the township embraced the fertile track in the fork of the rivers. The township is bounded on the east by Butler, south by Clay and on the west by Pip> Creek. It contains 19,200 acres; thirty square miles. The most of the surface is high, and broken bluffs skirt the valley of the rivers. Here may be seen some of the most beautiful landscape scenery in the west. Standing on the bluffs of the Mississinewa, you may see the little river winding its course at the foof of the hills. beyond the river are fields of waving corn and golden grain; clumps of woods, cattle grazing on green pastures, beautiful dwellings surrounded by buildings and orchards give color to the scene. Away in the distance is a line of elms and Sycamores showing the course of the Wabash, Beyond are gray clouds touching the hills on the north side of the valley. Among the rugged hills which skirt the creeks may be seen many beautiful landscapes. The Treaty branch rises near the center of the township and ripples southward through fields and woods until it loses itself in the Wabash. Little Pipe Creck meanders in a south-western course across the township, and Big Pipe Creek drains the north-western part. Numerous rivulets are tributaries to these, -so that each farm is well supplied with outlets for tiledrainage. Buta few years ago the farmers living in the north end of the township on the uplands would laugh in their sleeve when they saw the farmers from the south going to town and would call them 'swamp angels." But those ''swamp angels" have so tiled their land, thut after a rain you may see just where the tile lies by looking over the surface. 'The soil on the north end on the uplands has nearly run out tnt has been redeemed and greatly improved my manures.

The township was organized June 6, 1843. Washington, Butler and Pipe Creek, when organized, extended from the Wabash to the southern line of the county, and when the southern tier of townships were organized, then the northern boundary lines of these townships were established. Shortly after the township was organized, an election wus held at Thos. Henton's cabin and [saac Miller was elected first justice of the peace and Patrick O'Brien, constable.

It has been generally conceded that Thomas Henton was the first white man to settle in Washington township. He came in the summer of 1838 and located on what is now known as the old Demuth farm on the Strawtown pike. He kept bachelor's hall for a short time in a rude cabin on the hill. The next year he had a couple of distant neigbbors particulary the Dabneys, with whom he became quite intimate, so much so that he resigned his bachelorship and married one of the girls. He has long since passed away and his widow became the wite of William Demuth and is now livicg in South Peru.

Bradley Witham and Patrick O'Brian first broke the forest in the northern part of the township in the year 1839. They came out from Peru together with a covered wagon, one going ahead and cutting a road. Witham settled on land now owned by Perry Eckelberger and O'Brian on the farm a little to the south which yet holds his name. Patrick O'Brian was a native of Ireland and crossed the ''Big Frog Pond," as he sometimes termed it,in 1819. He had five boys and three girls who grew to man and womanhood. Patrick O'Brian died in 1882 at the age of seventy-nine.

Michael Duffey and Patrick Colgan arrived a little later the same year. Duffey, Witham and O'Brian settled on land joining. Colgan went farther south and settled on Little Pipe Creek. There were+then no roads in the township. When Colgan came to Miamisport he took an Indian trail just south of his place, running east and west, and followed it to the old Edwards farm, where another trail crossed, running from Squirrel Village on Big Pipe creek to the Indian villages on the Mississinewa, and followea the latter trail to Grassy Point, then down the river to town. Patrick Colgan's was the first marriage in the township. He was united to Bridget Kennedy in 1841, and theirs was the first child of white parents. 'The first grist Colgan took to mill near Delphi. Jacob Struble and George Clickard arrived in 1840. Struble settled on the Charles Brown farm; Clickard- on the farm yet known by his name.

Jacob Struble at one time owned considerable land. He was one of the early supervisors of the township. The road which bears his name, running past the old Struble farm, now owned by David Ord, and the first road crossit on the north end were cut by him. Quite a laughable little incident which happened to him just after he arrived form Germany he would frequently relate. He knew nothing about timber when hecame here. He was employed by George Rettig to make rails. Rettig told him to go to the woods, select the best timber he could tind 'in any part of the woods and whack it down. Struble went to the woods, searched around a little and selected a fine-looking beech, cut it down, cut off a rail cut and proceeded to maul it into rails. "But it dido't maul worth a cent and no doubt he said something more than once. It is not reported how many he made. The whole neighborhood bad a big laugh at Struble's expense. He afterwards learned what rail timber is.

Peter Benner arrived from Ohio 1n 1842 and settled on what is now known as the George Smith farm on the Xenia pike. He here raised four children, two gi:ls and two boys. Two are living, one the widow Smith, the mother' of James and.George. Soon after her father arrived from Ohio, she was united in marriage to Gilbert N. Smith, who was knewn as **Yankee" Smith. He was born and raised near New York City, where he learned the trade of cloth weaver. He early manifested that shrewdness which afterwards characterized him, and soon became foreman of the large woolen mill in his native town. In early manhood he took the western fever and set out out for the wilds of Indiana. After he was married he settled on what is known as the Rhinebarger farm. He built what would then be called an elegant residence. It was the first frame house in the township. Smith always manifested that restless, speculative disposition. As soon as he had built a good residence and got the farm under pretty good cultivation he sold it and moved a little south on what was long known as the widow Smith farm, now owned by James B. Smith, and settled in a rude log cabin. His first labor was to build a huge frame barn, by far the Jargest in the county at that time. Smith was a shrewd trader, a schemer, a hard worker, and made money at everything he undertook. He was fast accumulating wealth, but in the prime of manhood was called to give an account of his stewardship. He left a widow who is now past seventy, and four children, two of whom are now living, James Smith, ee the home place, George Smith on the old Benner farm.

James Sharp came from Kinrosshire Scotland in May, 1843. He landed at Quebeck and for several months occupied his time roaming. He heard of the great land sale along the Wabash valley. He arrived here in September 1843 and bought where he now lives a claim of 160 acres. form John Maloney. Mr. Sharp now has several farms and a good large residence on the home place.

Charles Brown made two trips here, one in 1841, and one ift 1842, and settled permanently in 1843. Mr. Brown was a brick-mason by trade. He built the first brick residence in Peru. 'He and Bully Scott were partners for some time. Having accumulated considerable town property he traded it in 1856 for the farm where he now lives and settled there in 1864.

Besides the above pionvers who have been specially mentioned may be named Thomas Omera, who settled in 1839, on the old Howver farm, now owned by James Sharp. His near neighbor that year was Joseph Howley. - Bargerhoof settled on the Bearss farm; Daniel Taggett, where South Peru is now, and had charge of a ferry boat. Among those of 1840 and °41 were Alexander Wilson, Peter and William Weakler, Malachi Kubn, M. Sharpee. John Gindling, James Dabney, Michael Case, William Lycee, John Miller, David Myers Brown, Isaac Miller, John Allen, Able Hennen, James Downey, John Hunt, Amos Ranks and Jacob Keller. Among those who entered the township in 1842-43 may be mentioned Wm. King, John Davidson, John Scott, - - - Baltimore, Frederick Harter, Michael Whaling, Thomas Gaudy, Artbur Bland, Benjamin Fish, Joseph Hopkins, John Brown, John Love, Jobn Garl, B. F. York, J. Marshall, J. T. Miller and W. H. Misener. In 1844-45 were Samuel Jameson, John Betzner, Christian Mort, - - Frazee, Joseph Bufort, Israel Lee, Frederick Coleman, John York, Jerry Shaffer, Caleb Corey, Samuel Sheneberger, - - - - Strogler, Martin Flagg, Ephraim Bearss, Joseph Scott, - Malry, John Demuth, Asher Elwards, Samuel Dabner, David Dunn, P. Blake, Hamlet Thair, Wm. Scott. Wm. King, Wm. Wiley and M. Corey. Among the earliest pioneers after 1815, may be mentioned Eben Mosely, John Hann, father of Christopher Hanks, Wm. Rankins, Barney Blue, Samuel and John Glass, Coarles and Benjamin Trippezer, and Mrs. (Platz) Housman.

It has always been interesting to learn of the manners and customs of preceding generations. 'The early settlers farmed mostly with oxen. Families went to church, to parties or visiting on foot. or else hitched the oxen to the big, heavy wagon. The young man took his girl riding in an ox cart. Quite frequently the young men went to amusemeuts on horseback with their sweethearts on behind. There was no idea of ornamentation in dress. Many men went to church bare-footed. 'They wore the same suits at church that they did at log rollings, except they were clean. In summer their dress consisted of a hat, a waist or shirt, a pair of pants, with string or linne bark suspenders.

days he replied with a sort of humor in his eye that loz rolling was. To this generation, that would not ba mich anussment, but the pio neers associated fur and humor with hardwork. They alwaysenjoyelj2staad rouzhhunor. Taey sat around great log heaps in the evening, stirred the logs together and told huge stories. At the corn huskings all the young folks of the neighborhood gathered and with their labor enjoyed music and stories. All was mirth, laughter and gayety. 'The old ladies had their quilting, carpet rag and spinning parties. where they would enjoy a hugh dinner together. An old lady would give out a quilting at her home on acertainday. A special written invitation was not thought of. But on the appointed day oxen were hitched to the big heavy wagon and the whole family went to the quilting. The men had wood chopings, and in the evening the largest room was cleared and all engaged in » big dance, the married peuple as well as the single folks.

The old time spelling match is discribed to perfection in the - Hoosier School Master. 'The best spellers were known far and near. Each neighborhood contained a speller who could spell almost every word in McGuffey's speller. The spelling match has but recentl; gone out of date and all past the age of twenty-one have witnessed many a hotly contested spelling match.

The old shooting match was a great place for fun and hilarity. The best marksman was the hero of the country. 'The shooting match was held in a woods or clearing near some settler's cabin. 'There was something to eat and always plenty to drink. Ona a log sat a party plajing cards and here and there a few story tellers. 'The master of the party jumped upon a stump and read the rules of the matck. A distance of a hundred yards or more was struck olf and the game was hung up or tied. A certain sum was paid for each shot and the best marksman took the game. The old settlers often enjoyed a great hunting party.

Such was the amusements of the early days. The pioneers amid all their trials and hardships, loved their neighbors and enjoyed hospitality and sociability.

The pioneer schoo} house is a relie of bygone days. If one had the first school house built in Washington township in Chicago. he could make a fortune exhibiting it. The first school house of the township was built on Bradley Witham's farm. 'That part where the schoo} house stood bas been purchased by John Struble. It stood on a clearing of a half acre, surrounded by heavy woods, a converging point of several foot paths which led through heavy forests from the cabins of the early settlers. There was enough public money for a month or a month and a halt school, then the subscriptions continued the term about that much longer. The Witham school was a typical one and a description of it answers to a discription of all tae pioneer schools.: It was a rude log hut, very narrow in its proportions, and the only ventilation was through the logs and under the door. It had a gable roof covered with long clap boards weighed down with long poles lying lengthwise of the house. The floor was puncheon. A log was left out on either side nearly the whole length of the school house, and long strips of glass were placed in the opening. The fireplace occupied nearly one end of the house. Just below the long windows was a desk, made by driving pegs in the wall, and laying puncheon boards on them. Long benches stood crosswise of the school house. 'These benches consisted of a board hewn out of a log with an ax and was supported by pegs. There was no lean back nor desk. The commun position was to bold the book in the hand and rest the elbows on the knees. When writing hour came the benches were moved to the desks at the side walls. There was no desk or rostrum for the schoolmaster. His usual position was striding up and down the center of the school house, usually with a long gad in his hand. The first teacher was a Mr. Hobaugh, then Alvin Porter, Able Hurt, at one time auditor of the county, and now a resident of Peru and Alford Sparks, who is yet remembered with a sbudder. He taught on the old method and always had a gad in his hand about the length of the school house. After three or four winters the school was removed a little to the south on the old Kissman seats were attached to the walls and in front of these was a high bench for a desk. The big boys and girls sat around the wall which served as alean back. In front of this row of desks was a second row circling the school house. This school was attended by a hardy race of boys and girls. 'There were the Duffeys. the Radles, the Pierces, the Smiths and the Strubles who yet live in the district. The Withams, the O'Briens, the Rhinebargers and the Kissmans attended there. The Withams have moved away, Jack O'Brien is. now city marshal of Peru. John O'Brien has been a conductor of the L. E. & W.. since the completion of the road. James Rhineberger, was county sheriff eight years.

A mere mention of Pete Morran to any of the old pupils will bring a jJaugh or a frown. Not that Pete was smart enough but he was just too devilish for any use. He was continually doing something to make the rest halloo or laugh. About half the time poor Pete had to stand with his nose to a crack in the corner of the school house, or kneel on a three cornered stick of wood or perform some penance for mischief done. The last heard of Peter Morren was about fifteen y2ars ago when he was an engineer of the L. EK. & W.

Early in the fifties the Kissiman and Hawver districts were consolidated and Jacob Struble donated a half acre and the Kissiman school was moved a little west on the Struble land where it now stands.

When five or six settlers arrived. the first thing they did for the common good was the erection of a school house. Their attention was next turned to their moral and spiritual] wants and they formed an organization for relicious worship. For the first few years christians of all deacminations would meet at the home of members. OQcvassionly some widé awake traveling preacher would drop in their midst, shake them up, increase their little flock and encourage them to build a temple of wership. The religion of the pioneers was more elementary, purer and less adulterated with the moneygetting schemes of this Croesus generatin. The first religious meetings of this township were held early in the forties at the homes of John Allen and a Mr. Henan and a Mr. McManis. About 1844 or 45 some United Brethern reachers aroused religious enthusiasm and organized a soviety for christian

At one time the Presbyterians had a prosperous organization and had built a church, but on account of removals and deaths the few left have been absorbed into congregations outside the township.

At the extreme south end of the township the Dunkards have a large frame temple of worship. The congregation is well established affd contains umoOng its members some of the most substantial farmers in the county.

The following history of the Salem Unive-salist church is furnished to uS by Orlando Moseley. It is located four miles south of Peru, and is the result of the labors begun about the year 1858 by Rev. J. Brooks, who was the pioneer preacher of Universalism in this part of Indiana. Later, Reverends Gib, Sage. Manford, Ballard and stoner preached the doctrine of the Fatherhood of God, the brotherhood of man, and of the final destruction of all wrong. The pioneers of the faith were Eben Mosely and wife, A. B. Edwards and wife and a family by the name of Clymer. 'hese constituted the number then known, living within the vicinity in which the church now stands. Uthers there may have been, who like the earlier christians hid themselves to avoid persecution. But the little bard referred to believing in the eternity of truth, and the perfection of God's character stood true to their convictions of the right, and while they were aiding in the subjugation of the wilderness and © helping to build a higher civilization in Indiana. they impressed tleir religious thoughts upon the neighborhood in which they lived as an ¢ssential in: that building.

Although most of those early heralds of a broader faith have passed to the higher life, their deeds and words are yet living. The members of Salem church cherish them in memory and speak of them with venuration.

Many a pleasing reminiscence of their discussions with the fearful and the unbelieving of their neighbors is referred to by those now living, who have been permitted to see the destruction of human slavery. the downfall of polygamy. the elevation of woman, and in all christian lands he demands to settle all difficulties by peaceful methods, prison reforms, the protection from cruelty of even the dumb brutes, and greater charity among all people, as the fruits of the spirit of christianity.

The organization of the church was effected in the month of February 1893. Reverends J. B. Grandy, R. N. John, J. B. Fosher Jas. Houghton, Lathe and M. L. Pope were the later ministers who contributed to that end. Joseph S. Mills, Philip Noel and Jas. Campbell were among the principal instigators in effecting the organization.

The charter members were: Orlando Moseley and wife, Christopher Hanks and wife, Walter Edwards and wife. Charles Mills and wife, Charles N. Hanks and wife, Charies Edwards and wife, Wm. Carson and wife and Geo. W. Mort, A. I. Jones, Alex Jamison, Ella Mills, and Jennie Dunn.

Rev. M. L. Pope, after having organized the church, was chosen as its first pastor. The organization, the building and the means to pay for its completion, and the dedication of the new church were all attained within the same year, 1893. Many friends outside of the taith contributed liberally to the building fund. The building is of wood and is 32 by 48 feet, with an addition of 8x16 feet on the front, which includes entrance, cloak rooms ete., and is seated with modern assembly chairs.

The chureh property is valued at two thousand dollars, Its preseny officers are as follows: G. W. Mort, Moderator; Joseph S. Mills. Treasurer; Charles N. Hanks, Clerk; G. W. Mort, a. I. Jones and Joseyh Mills. Trustees; Wm. Carson, Walter Edwards, Deacons and Ella Hanks, Deaconess. 'The society meets for public worship.on the first Sunday of each month. Its present pastor, Rey D..A. Patrick, is an earnest and able ex ponder ot the truth as believed by this people and is makidg his influence for good felt in the neighborhood. For a, country place, Salem is well attended and is in a flourishing condition, with bright prospects for the future. Its faith and teachings is to the victory of Christ avd may be stated in the following condensed form.

We believe that God, who hath spoken through all his holy prophets, since the word began, hath spoken unto us by His son Jesus Christ, our example and Saviour.

We believe that salvation here, and hereafter, consists in spiritua] oneness with God, who will gather in Christ the whole family of mankind.

The industries of the township have been very limited. Until w late date date there were no industries, with the exception of two or three saw. mills located in the southern part of the township on the creeks. At present the principal industries are located in the northern part of the township in South Pern. Orlando and Henry Mosley, located in the southwestern part of the township, on the Strawtown pike, have created some industries. Olando has a large machine shop to manufacture fence machines and do general re pairiag. Henry has for some time operated a large cider mill and jelly factory, and has recently constructed a large sorghum factory with the latest improved 'apparatus.

The Maris wheel manufactory was started in South Peruin 1871. Shirk, Maris, Clifton, Rettig. Constant and A. Smith were the directors. In 1874 the factory was bought by John Clifton, Sr. The books then showed $70,000 of stock on hand, but in 1875 the storage room burned down and Clifton lost $20,000. It was then re-organized into a furniture manufacturing company, and about a year after succumbed to the flames, and the site of what wus once a large factory is now covered with dwelling houses.

S. Tudor & Co.'s packing house was established about fifteen years ago. This house engages extensively in packing eggs, butter and poultry for a wholesalp house in New York City.

Besides the above industries may be mentioned John Miller's blacksmith shop and wagon works, Lewis' saw miil, fur many years the largest in the county, Kuoty, & Demuth's planing mill, and the Peru brewery.

ated on high and rolling ground about one mile south of Peru on the Strawtown pike. It was moved to its present location about seventeen yearsago. A arm of one hundred and sixty acres was purchased of Charles H. Beownell's ather and the next year was begun the erection of the main building, the cost of which when completed was about $20,000. This farm was'very popr soil, but abundant manures have sv enriched it that it now produces as heavy crops as any soil in the county. Improvement of the farm, on the building and in the mavagement has been constant. The superintendent$ in their order are: Gibney, father of William Gibney; Ben Wallace, who has since become so _pvominent as a showman; Reuben Richardson, Orson Durand, Josepb Gordon, Jobv Hann, James McKinstry, Jonas Hoover, Samuel Myers. William 4. English, and the present superintendent, Herbert Lewis. There is a large driveway leading tram the pike past the house to the stables. Immediately 'in front of the residence is a beautiful yard, containing a gravel walk, on either side of which are beds of choicest flowers. The main building is brick, and consists of two stories, a basement and cellar. There are forty-eight rvoms well ventilated and lighted. Each floor is furnished with water from two large tanks in the garret, where it is forced by a pump. Each room is heated by a register. The superintendent is supplied with good large apartments in the front part of the building. Just back of his quarters are the men's and women's apartments. They are kept separate and there is no connection between their quarters. Each have their dining hall on the first floor. All the cooking is done in the basement and the food reaches the dining room by elevators. Each inmate's room is large, with good ventilation, and is well hghted and is kept as clean as can be. The walls of the women's rooms are hung with photographs, pictures and relics, remembrances of prosperuus days. In the basement are four large rooms. In one are two large furnaces and a force pum», another is used for the kitchen and two large rooms for the storage of winter consumption. The main out buildings are the shop and wash-house, the old jail, the bake shop, milk house and the wood and butcher shop.

State educational institution fund............... .. State debt.sinking" fund), 922.026 eae eee State school. vera Permanent cidaweiene fied ladiane Untrarsioy 5 County tax £. Foy Re Lh ae hte eae eae RowWnshipstax [8 ee Ns soe ae bow awn 2 oe

Chapter Xxiv

A ot TOWNSHIP is in the north-west part of the county and is bounded on the north by Allen township, east by Perry and Richland, south by Jefferson, and west vy Fulton and Cass counties. It is four and a half miles from south to north, and five miles from east to west boundary lines, containing twenty-two and a half square miles. But one-half square mile has been taken off the south-east.corner in order to throw the whole of Denver in one township. The territory of Allen, part of Richland and Union were originally organized in one political district and called Union township. The land is drained and watered by the Weasaw and its branches, and slopes tou the south. It is high and rolling and the soilis sandy. 'The territory contains many low, sandy marshes. In the southern part there is heavy timber of hickory, oak ash and beech. In the.north-west are ''the barrens," where no timber grows but the small jackoak. The marshes are vow nearly all drained and are well cultivated. The soil is well adapted to wheat, and heavy corn is raised in parts of the township.

Organization

Union township was organized November 16, 1837, with the following boundaries: Beginning at the north-west corner of Section 4, Township 29, range 4 east, thence west five miles to the north-west corner of the county; thence south nine miles to the south-west corner of Section 14, Township 28, Range 3 east; thence six miles to the south-east corner of Section 15 of the same township; thence north three miles to the northeast corner of Section 3, 'Township 28, Range 4 east; thence west one mile to the north-west corner of Section last named; thence north six miles to the place of beginning. The boundaries of the township were changed in 1859 when Allen was organized, and later to throw Denver in Jefferson township. 'The first election was held in Perrysburg in the fall of 1837, in Matthew Fenimore's store. A. H. Leedy was elected Justice of the Peace, and Powell Cool, clerk.

In the spring of 1835 four sturdy pioneers fixed their homes within the present limits of Union township. 'They were William Cannon, John Fall Joseph Thornburg and John Plaster. In October of that year, Abraham H. Leedy and John Zook became tbeir near neighbors. In 1836 arrived Martin Hoover, John R. Wright, Caristian Crider, John F. Sanders and Hugh A. B

People. The settlers of 1837 were John A. Taylor, George Hakins, Stephen Davidson. Matthew Fenimore, Daniel Cox, William Williams, John Shepherd, William Bane, Samuel Robins and John Scott. Those who came in 1838 were J. A. Howland, Jonas Carlisle, Christopher Williams, Powell Cool, William Connor, George Hill, Joseph and Daniel Kesler, Lewis'Couner and John Piper. Soon after 1838 came Solomon See, Robert Clendening, Perry Tharp, Caleb Fitzgerald, Joseph Holman, Robert James. Thomas Wyat, Isaac Benedict,

Priority Of Events

The first church was built by the Presbyterians in 1839, in Perrysburg. That same year or the next the Methodists erected a church at the same place. The Baptists organized in 1840, at the home of William Cool. 'This was the first of that denomination in the county.

Soon after Joseph Holman laid out the plat of Miamisport he moved to Union townsh p and built the first frame house. His daughter's marriage was the first in the township. Joseph Holman was free, hearty, jovial and soci- | able. He was a great lover of mirth. He invi.ed everybody for miles around to a great feast at the marriage. It was in the bleak days of December: They rolled some logs together aud built a fire on the outside so those would not freeze, who could not get into the house. 'They sat around the fire, told stories and enjoyed themselves with laughter and mjrth. 'I'he first school house was built on land then belonging to John Plaster in 1838, and Mahala xcot had charge of the first school.

In 1838. a saw mill ona branch of the Weasaw was built by John A, Taylor. Joseph Holman, at about the the same time. built a saw mill, with eorn cracker attached, in another part of the township.

The Pioneek Cabin

William Cool (who died about two years ago) and his wife came to Union township in May, 1839. In the chapter on the «'Manners, Customs and Amusements of the Pioneers" may be read the history of how Mr. Cool attempted to raise his house without whiskey. That was someting that no pioneer had done. Mr. Cool's idea was to give them instead of whiskey a dinner that they would not soon forget. A costly dinner in thuse times was not to be had on every occasion, and a real good dinner was something to pick your teeth over and remember. This dinner toox so well that afterwards a big dinner was preferred to whiskey. They built a log house a story and a half high. The Indians would come and lodk at it in astonishment and say: "Big wigwam, whiteman!" 'There were very few neighbors then, and the path between them was kept by glazing the trees. There was only one road in Union township then. That ran from Miamisport to Chippawa on the Tippecanoe. The principal callers were Indians. One day a stalwart redman, with a large knife in his belt, stealthily stepped into the Cool cabin. He said noth - ing. Mrs. Cool was about to say her final prayers. But he went directly to x the fire place, lighted his pipe and silently departed. During the ssmmer months the logs were not chinked and plenty of light was admitted between S them. Before winter they were chinked ad a window was cut out. Cloth was hung over the door at night. Such was the primative dwelling. Wolves howled about at night, and occasionally the settlers would be arroused by the screams of a panther. Sometimes a hungry wolf would venture near the cabin and walk off with a chicken or a pig.

Villages Of Perrysburg And Deedsville

4 INDIAN CUSTOMS. ; A few years ago, Henry Howes, a pioneer of the township, who was prob- 4 ably more familiar with the Indians than many others, related to the writer 4 some of their customs. When a young man he often went to the Indian vil- 4 lage near Denver. Peashwah and Weasaw and many other Indians were con- ; verted by Catholic missionaries before there were any settlers here. The 4 priest was not with them often, but they always met on Sundays in a@appointed place and observed the Catholic form of worship. In their house of worship they had several] images and pictures to daily call their attention to the life of asus. Each converted Indian had his rosary, and, no doubt, while brooding over the enroachments of the whites, performed his vigils. F It is interesting to know how the Indians buried their dead. They wound the body in a blanket and stood it upright on the ground. They drove pickets around the body and then wove bark between the pickets so as to j - make the grave perfectly closed*and tight. If the Indian had smoked they | would put a pipe and tobacco in the grave, and always what provisions they supposed would iast him until be would reach his happy bunting ground. There were many graves like this near the Indian village in 1834. They began to bury as the whites soon after the settlers arrived. VILLAGES OF PERRYSBURG AND DEEDSVILLE.

In June, 1837, Perryburg, situated on the south-west part of the township, was platted, coataining thirty-six lots, by Matthew Fenimore and John R. Wilkinson. In the spring of 1839 it had four or five dwellings, w tavern, blacksmith shop, store aud a church. The village is no larger than it was fifty years ago. Before the L, E. & W. railroad wee built it was quite a trading post, but since then the trade has gone to points on that line.

In 1869 the first train ran over the L. EK. & W. through the present site of Deedsville. William Deeds then owned the site. On the completion of the railroad he built a warehouse. Grain and produce from . radius of three to five miles soon drained to that point. A store a blacksmith shop were soon demanded, and two church spires could be seen above a eeze) or more dwellings. The railroad was completed in Janel 1869, and in September E. A. Hill opened a large store room amply filled with a, good general stock, Aibert Deeds and Samuel M. Leedy recorded a plat of eighty-four lots in December, 1872. Leedy afterwards made an addition of twelve lots and Deeds one of six- The village has grown but very little in the past twenty years.

Acres of Irish potatoes planted in 18)5........ Acres of melons planted in 1895 ......... aoe) Mumber ofsacres in timothy meadow in 1895. Number of acres in clover in 1895.

Geese, No. dozen sold or used past 12 months. . Ducks, No. dozen sold or used past 12 months. Eggs, No. dozen sold and used past 12 months. Bees, No. of colonies.

Chapter Xxv

If Ihave envied anybody it has been the hale, strong farmer. As arule the farmers are intelligent, .well informed and healthily interested in public affairs; self respectful and respected; independent land, owners full; entitled if any class is to the name of gentlemen.

EER CREEK 'TOWNSHIP, situated in the south-west part of Miami County, is bounded on the west and south by Cass and Howard counties respectfully aad on the east and north by Clay and Pipe Creek townships respectfully. The dimensions of the township, forms a perfect parallelogram, four miles from east to west and five miles from north to south - twenty square miles, 12,800 acres.