Prairie Township (part 3 of 4)

At a special session of the Board of Commissioners, held in April, 1880, elections were ordered to be held in Union and Oak Grove Townships for . the purpose of voting aid to the Indiana & Chicago Railroad, in the sum of $9,000 in the former and $15,000 in the latter. The election in Union was ordered for Maj' 22, 1880, and in Oak Grove for June 1, 1880. The elections were held, as ordered, and resulted as follows : In Union Township, 88 votes for, and 34 against ; in Oak Grove, 249 votes for, and 75 against. This road has been completed through the countj-, and runs very nearly in a due north and south direction, running through Goodland, in Newton County, crossing the Cincinnati, Indianapolis, St. Louis & Chicago Railroad about four or five miles south of Fowler, and passing on thence through Oxford. Its termini are, for the present, Chicago and Brazil. The town of Fowler refused to aid anywise in the construction of the road, owing to some misconception of the facts ; they probabl}' either doubted the ability of the parties who were at the head of the scheme to bring it to a successful issue, or else they thought that the road would be built anyhow, whether they contributed to the enterprise or not, and, consequently, the road was located so as to pass just to the east of Fowler, missing it about two miles, and almost whollv, if not quite, cutting the town off from all benefits on account of the road being built. This will undoubtedly become an excellent freight line, as it will be the most direct route between the extensive coal fields of Clay County and Chicago, the great metropolis of the West. The name by which it is now designated is the Chicago & Great Southern Railroad. The three roads mentioned are the only ones, as yet, that have been completed, or upon which work has been begun, although there have been two others projected, and they will probably both be built in the near future. These are the Michigan, Indiana & St. Louis and the Delphi, Fowler & Western. A petition from the citizens of Center Township was presented to the Board of Commissioners at a special session in March, 1882, asking that an election be ordered for that township, for the purpose of voting aid to the latter road in the sum of $22,567, and an election was accordingly ordered for that purpose, to be held on the 2d day of May, 1882. At the same session, a similar petition was presented from citizens of Pine Township for an election to vote upon the proposition of donating the sum of $7,100, to aid in the construction of the same road, and an election was ordered for the same day as in Center Township. A canvass of the votes in Center Township showed that 289 votes were cast for, and 151 against, the proposition. In Pine Township, 51 were in favor of the donation and 47 ao-ainst it. At the October session, an election was asked for in Parish Grove Township to vote upon the proposition to donate the sum of $9,600, to aid in the construction of the same road, and an election was ordered to be held on the 24th day of November, 1882. The election was accordingly held, and resulted in 79 votes being cast in favor of the proposition, and 45 against it. Thiere has been a surve}- made of the line of this proposed road, but no work has been done on it as yet, in the countj-, though it is verj' confidently predicted by those who are wise in such matters, that it will be built in a very short time. Steps have been taken to secure the right-of-way, and the same has been generally, if not fully, secured through the county.

A petition from the citizens of Oak Grove Township, praying for an election to be ordered in that township for the purpose of voting upou the proposition of making a donation of $15,000 to aid in the construction of the Michigan, Indiana & St. Louis Railroad, was presented to the Board of Commissioners, at a special session of the board held- in the month of May, 1882, and an election was ordered, as prayed for, and the time fixed therefor June 7, 1882. The election was held on that day, and resulted as follows : For the proposition, 236 ; against it, 125. When those two roads are built, as they undoubtedl}' will be, for they are evidently judiciously located, there will be no township in the county except Gilboa without a railroad. Then, with all the advantages of cheap transportation, coupled with the advantages that she already possesses, of an extraordinarily fertile soil, there is every reason to believe that Benton County will be among the most wealthy and prosperous counties in the State ere another quarter of a century shall have passed. Notwithstanding the fact that railroads are much inveighed against, denounced as grasping monopolies, and all that, yet the fact is patent that thej' create markets for the commodities of the land where before there was none, and that thej- bear a very large part of the burden of taxes ; to all of which facts a majority of the people of Benton County seem to be alive, judging from the wa}' in which they vote aid to railroads.

Other Hoads

To describe all the roads in the countv, and give the date of their establishment, would of itself require a good-sized volume. It is not the intention to attempt this, but to give only the date of one or two of the early ones, with a general description of their course. By an act of the Legislature, approved February 24, 1840, Amos White was appointed a Commissioner to locate and establish a State road from La Fayette to Parish Grove. Henry Robertson acted as surveyor, and the report made by the Commissioner and surveyor to tlie Board of County Commissioners at their December session, 1840, shows that the road was located to run by way of Milton Jennings', Basil Justus' and Robert Alexander's, and on to the State line. This is probably tlic first road ever located in the county. The next probably was a State road from Independence, in Warren County, to Newton, in Jasper County, whieli was established in June, 1841. F. C. Webb, of Warren County, was the Couiraissioner who located the road. About the same time, or earlier it may have been, a State road from Williamsport, in Warren County, to Micliigan City, was established. It was certainly established prior to May. 184B, for we find that the Board of Commissioners made an appropriation, at a special session, in that month, for a bridge across Big Tine Creek, at the lower crossing on that road.

Benton County has some first-class iron bridges. In 1867. there was an iron bridge, of the kind known as the King's Patent Tubnlar Arch Wrought Iron Bridge, erected across Pine Creek, about three miles east of Oxford, ou the Oxford & La Fayette road, at a cost of $5,600.

At a special session of the board held in November, 1874, the Commissioners entered into a contract with the Smith Bridge Company, of Toledo, Ohio, for the building of two bridges across Pine Creek at Aydelott. in Pine Township, and at Emerson's, in Bolivar Township. The}' were to be of the kind known as the Smith's Open Arch Bridge (iron), and the extreme length of each ninety-four feet; roadway, sixteen feet in the clear, and height of truss about twelve feet. The contractors were to have the bridge completed bj' January 25, 1875, and were to receive S17.4:0 per lineal foot. In January, 1875, the Commissioners accepted the bridges and allowed the contractors SlOO for extra work, making the two bridges cost the county in the aggregate the sum of 13,371.20. In December, 1879, the Commissioners contracted with the Cleveland Bridge & Iron Company, of Cleveland Ohio, for the building of an iron bridge across Mud Pine, at or near the town of Chase, which was to be completed by March 1, 1880, and for which the contractors were to receive the sum of S810. These are all the bridges in the county of sufficient importance to deserve special mention,

Associate Judges. - David McConnell and Matthew Terwilliger, from organization of the county to 1844; Basil Justus and John Sheetz, from 1844 to 1850; Harvey H, Crawford and John McConnell, from 1850 until the office was abolished.

Common Pleas Judges. - Daniel Mills, William R. Boyer, G, A, Wood, David P, Vinton and Alfred Reed, Daniel Mills being the only one who resided in Benton County,

Clerics. - The following entry may be seen in the probate order book: "Be it remembered that Samuel McConnell was commissioned to the office of Probate Judge from the 27th day of July, 1840, and afterward, to wit, on the 5th day of November, 1840, he personally appeared before the Clerk of the Benton Circuit Court, and took the oath, as required by the Statute of Indiana, as appears from papers on file in this office. Witness, J, T, Parker, Clerk, p, t," The foregoing is given for the reason that it shows James T, Parker to have been the first Clerk, which is opposed to the generally received opinion that Basil Justus was the first. The Clerks after James T,

Justices of the Peace. - The following list contains the names of all the Justices of the Peace of the count}-, so far as the}- could be ascertained from the files and records, together with the date of their election, or qualification. It is manifestly incomplete, yet it is as complete as it could be made. No attempt has been made to designate the township in which they served. Following is the list : 1840, William B. Foster and Thomas Martin : 1841, William B. Foster and Stephen Buckley ; 1842, Basil Denton ; 1849, Charles Johnston ; 1850, John Hopper, Daniel Mills, William Wisher [and John W. Ferguson ; 1851, James McClure and William K. Johnston ; 1852, Ezekiel Dawson ; 1855, William Marvin, William Wisher and William K. Johnston ; 1856, Ezekiel Dawson, James W. Barnes, William R. Johnston and Bertram W. Temphill ; 1857, Samuel A. Keys ; 1858, Elisha Sargent, Duncan McA. Williams and Joseph F. Taylor; 1859, William Marvin and Duncan McA. Williams ; 1860, Ezekiel Dawson and Newton Murphy ; 1861, James Smiley ; 1862, Samson McMillen ; 1863, William Bartlett and^James McElhaney ; 1864, Rinaldo Sutton, Robinson Timmons and Newton Murphy ; 1865, William M. Tryon and William Cochran ; 1867, William Bartlett ; 1868, Rinaldo Sutton, Newton Murphy and Thomas Mott; 1869, Thomas A. McKnight, Elmer A. Black, William S. Turvey, A. Knotts and Benjamin A. Timmons ; 1870, Jacob Miller, Austin V. Flint, Daniel M. Kirlipatrick and John T. Stokes ; 1872, Edward O'Brien, Holmes M. Beckwith, John Lee, William Cochran, Jacob P. Isley and George W. Lane; 1873, William S. Turney ; 1874, Jacob Miller, Miles A. Barber, Rinaldo Sutton, James 0. Brown, David Strachan, Sylvester King, Winfleld Menefee and Austin V. Flint ; 1875, Matthew H. Walker and Samuel T. Du Bois ; 1876, John Whole, Hiram A. Boswell, Charles Phillips, Hugh C. Siddons, Daniel Frasier, Matthew H. Walker, Samuel T. Du Bois, Herbert C. Woodham, John Burns and John W. Cole ; 1877, William Cochran, John P. Isley and Thomas Mott ; 1878, Samuel A. Parker, James D. Smith, Thomas Parker, John Burns, Freeman W. Hatch, Rinaldo Sutton, John A. Calais, Jacob Miller, Miles A. Barber, Austin V. Flint, Joseph F. Smith and Sylvester King ; 1879, William H. Sale, George Wadsworth and Clinton Baker ; 1880, William H. Sale, John L. Richards, Horace L. Remie and Hiram A. Boswell ; 1881, John A. Walker ; 1882, William M. Marvin, Thomas Parks, Job H. Killen, Hugh C. Siddons, Clinton Meade, William H. Harmon, William Cochran, George H. Stewart, Jacob Back, James W. Bailey, Jacob Miller and Clark Cook : 1883, Rinaldo Sutton.

Following is a list of the Trustees of the various townships, from the time of their organization to tlie present time, with the dates when they served. To avoid the necessity of employing so many figures in expressing the dates of the election, or appointment of all the different Trustees, each date is used but once, and then the Trustees of all the townships in the county, for that year, are given, in the following order : Parish Grove, Oak

Grove, Pine, West Pine, York, Prairie, Bolivar, Union, Gilboa, Richland, Grant, Center, Hickory Grove. A part of tiie time there was more than one Trustee to each township, and a part of the time there was but one. A semicolon is placed after the names of the Trustees, or Trustee, of each township each year, and when a hiatus occurs in a township, as is frequently the case, the name of tlie next township in which there is no hiatus, is given, so that there need he no difficulty in ascertaining from the following list who was the Trustee in any particular township in any year. It will be necessary to bear in mind the dates when the several townships came respectively into the list, that is to say, when they commenced to have Trustees, which is as follows : Parish Grove, 1844 ; Oak Grove, 18.52 ; Pine, 1853 ; West Pine, 1858 ; York, 1860; Prairie, 1861; Bolivar, 1861; Union, 1864 ; Gilboa, 1866 ; Richland, 1869 ; Grant, 1869 ; Center, 1876 ; Hickory Grove, 1876. The list is as follows: 1844, Samuel Jolly and John Ross ; 1852, Oak Grove, Basil Justus ; 185.3, Thomas Martin, William Cochran and Joshua Howell ; Samuel Barkhurst and Francis Boyntou ; William Hawkins, Elijah Dawson and Robert Hawkins : 1854, Jacob Cassel and William Surface ; John Hopper and Robert W. Thompson ; James Emerson ; 1855, Samuel Mcllvain, Thomas Martin and George Liptrap ; Isaac Runner ; 1856, John T. Stokes ; George Champley and William Moore ; Benjamin Hawkins and Robert Hawkins, elected in April, and William M. Turnev, appointed in June ; 1857, Oak Grove, John Hopper ; 1858, Parnham Boswell, E. C. Sumner and Henry Robertson ; George H. Finch ; Isaac Bowver ; Asa H. Vanover ; 1859, Hcnrj' Robertson ; Anson Hurd ; James Emerson ; John T. Stokes; 1860, Henry Robertson ; Daniel Campbell; Isaac Bowyer ; John T. Stokes ; Isaac Hull ; 1861, Henry Robertson; William S. Freeman ; Isaac Bowyer ; James M. Harris ; John Fleming ; William Wisher ; C3TUS Porter ; 1862, Daniel Garwood ; John T. Williams ; Isaac Bowyer ; James M. Harris; John Fleming ; William Wislier ; Philip P. Gritfin ; 1863, Duncan McA. Williams ; John T. Williams ; James T. Clement ; James M. Harris ; Prairie, John K. Fenton ; Marcus Blessing ; 1864, Henry Robertson ; John T. Williams ; James T. Clement ; James ^I. Harris ; John Fleming ; George Armstrong ; Marcus Blessing ; John W. Nutt ; 1865. James Kirtley ; John T. Williams ; James T. Clement. (West Pine is not in after 1864.) John Fleming; Thomas Cliilds ; Marcus Blessing ; Ephraim Sayers ; 1866, James Kirtley ; Daniel R. Lucas.; Daniel JI. Kirkpatrick ; John E. Feutou ; ;Marcus Blessing; Ephraim Sayers; James Withani ; 18')7, James Kirtley; Daniel !!. Lucas (Henry Parker appointed June 10) ; Jonathan Lamborn ; Anthony Dehner ; Thomas Cliilds ; Joseph Kinsey ; John W. Nutt ; John Garretson ; 1868, , lames Kirtley; James Vawter ; John Miirris ; James Coulter (James Keyt appointed December 19); Thomas Cliilds; James Loyd ; llonry Timmons ; John Garretson; 1869, Oak Grove, James Vawler (W. M. Jones appointed June 16) ; John >Iorris ; Isaac Loyal ; Nathan Hibbs ; James Emerson ; Richland, Michael Sigal ; James Kirtley ; 1870, William Boswell; John T. Williams ; John Ross; William Hughes; James

Schools And Schoolhouses

At the December term of Commissioners' Court, 1847, it was " Ordered that an order be made to hold an election 'at the schoolhouse in Township 24, of Range 7, on the second Saturday in Januarj^, 1848; and, likewise, that an election be held at the schoolhouse in Township 25, Rang.e 7, same date." These are the first instances that we find in the Commissioners' record of an election being held at a schoolhouse, and, as it is quite probable that they commenced to hold their elections at schoolhouses as soon as there were any built, on account of the inconvenience of holding elections at private houses, it is probable that those were among the first, if not the first, schoolhouses built in the county. At the June term, 1847, the board ordered that the place of holding elections in Pine Township be removed to the schoolhouse near William R. Johnston's residence. The first school in Oxford, if not in the county, was taught by Samuel McConnell, in a building just south of the graveyard. There are, at present, ninety-one schools in the county, distributed as follows : Gilboa, nine ; Union, nine ; Richland, eight ; York, five ; Parish Grove, seven ; Center, eight ; Pine, eight ; Bolivar, ten ; Oak Grove, nine ; Grant, ten ; Hickory Grove, sis ; town of Fowler one ; town of Oxford, one. There are seven schools in the county that employ more than one teacher each. They are. Earl Park, two ; Raub, two ; Ambia, two ; Boswell, three ; Oxford, four ; Fowler, five. The total number of teachers in the county is eighty-nine. Value of school property in the county, $65,520. Average wages paid teachers in the county in 1881 and 1882, S41. The number of school children in the county, as shown by the last enumeration, 3,729, distributed among the several townships as fol-

There is an academy at Oxford, built in 1867, of which Rev. Lynn, then pastor of the Presbyterian Church, was the first Principal. He was a rigid disciplinarian, and became unpopular. He was succeeded after five mouths by Dr. Wells, who remained in charge until 1870. Rev. Neil, of the Method; ist Episcopal Churcii, was in charge of the school from 1870 to 1873. At this time the school was at its zenith, in number and zeal. Miss Wright taught the school years of 1873 to 1875, both inclusive, and was succeeded by Prof Barr, for one year and a half Xo fault could be found with his teaching, but he was extremelj' careless with financial matters, which led to his removal. Prof Johnson took charge of the school earlj- in 1877, and taught until the close of the school year of 1880. There was more looking up and fitting up of the school under his administration than any other. Prof Bosworth taught the past year, and has been secured for the next. The school building is delightfully located, and there is nothing lacking but worth3- efforts to make it a successful and promineut feature of Oxford.

The public school building of the town of Fowler is a commodious frame, two stories in height, built about 1876. and cost about S3, 000. If the population of the town continues to increase in the future as in the past, it will not be a great while until the house will not be large enough to accommodate all the childreu of the town. Prof Brazell has been Superintendent of the schools in the town of Fowler for some time past, and has given good satisfaction. He is still in charge of the schools, and is likely to remain in charge of them for some time to come.

It was at one time contemplated to build a large Catholic school or college near the town of Fowler, and Rev. Bishop Dewenger, of Fort Wayne, bought two hundred acres of land of Moses Fowler, adjoining Summit Grove, in September, 1875, for that purpose. The conveyance was made upon the condition that tlic deed was to be void if the grantee should fail to have a building erected on the land conveyed, within one year from the date of the conveyance, for the purpose of a college, and to be worth a specified sum. The grantee failed to comply with the conditions entitling him to an absolute conveyance; and the project was abandoned ; and, on the 12th of January, 1876, Bishop Dewenger quit-claimed to Moses Fowler, and that was an end of the matter. It is greatly to be regretted that the enterprise did not succeed, as the location was a most delightful one, and the building, had it been liuilt in accordance with the design, would have been a credit, and a great ornament to tlie town of Fowler. Mr. Fowler agreed that upon tiie completion of tlic building, lie would donate the grove - Summit Grove adjoining, wliicli is a beautiful grove situated on a high elevation about half a mile soutli of the town of Fowler - the highest point of land within several miles.

Deceased Newspaper

The first newspaper published in Bentou County was the Oxford Eoening Mail, started in 1855, b}' Joseph W. Jackson, editor and publisher. In 1858, he sold to S. F. Curt6n, who changed the name of the paper to Benton Register. After about A 3'ear, the paper was discontinued. The next was the Oxford Chronotype, which existed but for a short time and was discontinued. The Oxford Tribune was the next, of which D. R. Lucas was editor and proprietor. It was first issued on September 11, 1865. October 1, 1870, A. Cowgill became editor and proprietor. Later, but at whut date is not known, A. W. Carnahan became editor and proprietor, and in 1882 the present proprietor, jT^P~Carr7Jr!] purchased it, and has greatly improved it. Mr. Carr is editor as well as proprietor, and, to say the least, it is as good a paper as there is in the county. The next was the Central Clarion of which Duncan McArthur Williams was editor and proprietor. It was first issued in Maj', 1873, at Fowler. In August, 1874, the name was changed to Benton County Herald, and, at the same time it changed hands, Messrs. Ingrim and Maxwell becoming editors and proprietors. In May, 1876, D. McA. Williams again became editor, and the name was changed to Fowler Era. The Boswell Leader was first issued November 19, 1874, in the town of Boswell, G-. C. Lyon being editor, and H. N. Carson, proprietor. It changed hands several times, Calvin Gault lieing editor in 1875, and in September, 1876, Messrs. Seavey & Wallace of Hoopeston, 111., became its editors and proprietors. Its publication was finally suspended, and October 21, 1881, the Boswell Courier was established. It was owned by Mc- Neil & Graham 'of the Fowler Eye, and edited by Charles W. Lee. It is a six-column folio, Eepublican in politics, and a zealous advocate of the cause of temperance. Charles H. Miller has been its owner and proprietor since February, 1882. The ofHce contains a good Foster hand press and a neat job outfit. It is published on Thursdays, and has a very fair circulation, with a good business that is steadily increasing. Mr. Miller, the present proprietor, was formerlj' connected with the Kentland Gazette, and also with the Fowler Era, with Messrs. Mauck and Corkins. The Earl Park Mirror commenced publication October 31, 1874, but suspended after three issues. The Benton Democrat was first issued July 2, 1875, in the town of Fowler, with W. B. Maddock, editor and proprietor. Subsequently, Thomas Redmond became editor and proprietor, and in March, 1883, it passed into the hands and under the editorial management of Mr. Eastburn, the present proprietor. The Templeton Tocsin, at Templeton, was first issued in March, 1876, but soon ceased to exist. These are all the newspapers that have ever been published in Benton Countv. - ,

Societies And Associations

The first society organized in Benton County was probably Oxford Lodo-e, No. 190, A. F. & A. M., whose charter bears date July 24, 1855. The first officers were Elisha Sargent, Worshipful Master ; Alfred J. Carna- han, Senior Warden ; Jesse Dailey, Junior Warden ; B. N. Curl, Treasurer ; S. McMillen, Secretary ; B. Q. Norris, Senior Deacon ; T. E. Torrence, Junior Deacon, and George Ciiampley, Tiler. The present officers are Hiram Smith, Worshipful Master ; Aaron D. Huliman, Senior Warden ; Henry C. McConnell. Junior Warden ; Daniel A. Messner, Treasurer ; Charles Dailey, Secretary ; Joseph F. Sleeper, Senior Deacon ; John G. Carnahan, Junior Deacon ; Winfield Menefee, Tiler, and Allen W. Wells, Alonzo D. Sleeper, Stewards. The building in which this lodge holds its meetings was built in the year 1874, at a cost of about $1,200. The lodge has carpet and furniture worth about $300, and is in a healthy and prosperous condition.

Oxford Lodge, No. 160, I. 0. 0. F., was chartered July IS, 1855, but was not instituted, for some reason, until September 30, 1857. The following names appear on the charter : Martin Benedict, Alfred Walk, John E. Walk, Jesse Dailey, James Vawter and A. J. Carnahan. The first officers were J. W. Barnes, Noble Grand ; John Sheetz, Vice Grand : A. J. Caruahan, Treasurer, and Jesse Dailey, Secretary. The present officers are Job W. Sabin, Noble Grand ; John P. Ross. Vice Grand ; Mark Brier, Treasurer, and V. M. Benedict, Secretar3-. The Ijuilding in which the lodge hall is situated was Ijuilt by the Oxford Lodge, No. 169, I. 0. 0. F. Building Association, organized May 2, 1864. The building was erected in 1874, and was dedicated the same year l\y Past Grand Master Thomas Underwood, of La Fayette. It is a two-storj- brick building, situated on the east two-thirds of Lot No. 1, in Block No. 8, in the original plat of the town of Oxford, and 80 feet in length b}' 40 feet in width, with a hall above and business rooms below. The cost of the building and ground was §8,000. The stock of the association was divided into 320 shares, of $25 each, of which the lodge took, originall}^, 06. The lodge has acquired a great many more shares since, by donation some, and some by purchase, and now owns a controlling interest in the stock of the association. The regalia and other hall furniture belonging to the lodge is worth about $60(*. Present membership, 45. The largest membership the lodge ever had was 92.

Oak Grove Encampment, No. 137, I. 0. 0. F.. was instituted by dispensation of the (irand I'atriarch August 26, 1875, and a charter was granted by the Grand Lodge November 16, 1875. The following- names appear on the charter; Jaeol) S. Albaugh. W. C. Wilkinson, Austin Minturn, H. C. Shenkenberger, William M. Scott, "\'. :\1. Benedict and John T. JLirgan. First officers ; 11. C. Slionkenlterger, Chief Patriarch ; Jacob S. Albaugh, High Priest ; W. C. Wilkinson, Senior Warden ; Jolm J. .Moriian. Junior Warden; Austin Minlnrn, Treasurer, and V. M. Benedict, Scribe. The present officers are Jacob S. Albaugli, Chief Patriarcli ; H. C. Shenkenberoer, High Priest ; E. U. Dodson, Senior Warden ; Y. M. Benedict, Junior Warden ; JI. J. Brier, Troa.surer, and Jacob Miller, Scribe.

Omega, Beliecca Degree, Lodge, No. 186, I. 0. 0. F.. at Oxford, was instituted by dispensation of the Grand Master February 25, 1878, and charter granted iMarch 12, 1878, Tlie following- names appear on the charter :

William M. Scott, Jacob H. Armour, H. C. Sheukenberger, V. M. Benedict. A. E. Myers, Jacob Miller, Mrs. Hattie Scott, Mrs. Marcia Armour, Mrs. Sarah A. Sheukenberger, Mrs. Sallie Benedict, Carrie Myers and Magdalena Miller. First officers : J. S. Albaugh, Noble Grand ; Rachel Atkinson, Vice Grand ; Sallie Benedict, Secretary, and Magdalena Miller, Treasurer. Present officers : Eachel Atkinson, Noble Grand ; Sarah A. Kelley, Vice Grand ; Jacob Miller, Secretary, and Jlagdalena Miller, Treasurer.

Benton Lodge, No. 521, F. & A. M., at Fowler, was organized in July, 1875, with nineteen charter members, and the following as the first officers : Dr. J. L. Carnahan, Worshipful Master ; Jacob Smith, Senior Warden ; Charles Van Auker, Junior Warden ; M. H. Ingrim, Secretary ; Paul E. Hitze, Treasurer ; J. M. Dickson, Senior Deacon, and Julius Averil, Tiler. The fraternity was out of debt, and in a prosperous condition, until the 10th of July, 1883, when, owing to a disastrous fire, their charter and records, together with all their lodge furniture, were destroj'ed. Present membership about fort}'. The following are the present officers : J. H. Hartley, Worshipful Blaster ; S. F. Barnes, Senior Warden ; George Richmire, Junior Warden ; Jacob Smith, Senior Deacon ; Dr. J. S. Mavity, Junior Deacon ; G. S. Hartley, Treasurer ; F. Smith, Secretary, and F. Herman, Tiler.

Fowler Lodge, No. 460, I. 0. 0. F., was chartered bj^ the Grand Lodge of Indiana November 19, 187-4, on the application of Dr. A. J. Purdy, H. T. V. Huls and R. Williams. The first officers were C. W. Van Auker, Noble Grand ; A. J. Purdy, Vice Grand ; E. M. Carr, Secretary ; W. M. Jones, Permanent Secretary'; H. D. Clark, Treasurer ; Ed Alkire, Right Supporter ; E. H. Hollis, Left Supporter ; T. K. Harmon, Warden ; George Heisler, Chaplain ; Andrew Alkire, Right Scene Supporter ; John Reid, Left Scene Supporter, and C. M. Noble, Inside Guard. They have a total of 70 members, with 44 in good standing, and are out of debt. The property owned by the lodge, of all kinds, is worth about |800. Their regular meetings are held on Friday evening of each week. Following is a list of the present officers of the lodge : William Jones, N. G. ; Thomas Shapley, V. G. ; J. C. Pearson, Secretary ; Ed Westman, Treasurer ; John Longwell, Warden ; M. L. Pearson, I. S. G. ; John Gilburg, Coud. ; Joseph Danner, P. G. of N. G. ; John Chaffer, L. S. of V. G. ; Perry Lemasters, R. S. S. ; Nelson Hanger, L. S. S. There is a Daughter of Rebecca Lodge at Fowler ; but the data for a complete history of it could not be obtained. The name and number are not known. The lodge was organized October 3, 1877, with the following as first officers : W. W. Hamer, N. G. ; Mrs. Ingrim, V. G. ; Mrs. C. Westman, Secretary, and Mrs. S. Woodington, Treasurer. Present officers : Mrs. John Longwell, N. G. ; Mrs. John Calais, V. G. ; Mrs. C. W. Van Auker, Secretary ; Mrs. S. Woodington, Treasurer ; Mrs. U. Z. Wiley, Warden ; Mrs. William Jones, R. S. of N. G. ; JMrs. Ed Westman, L. S. of N. G. ; Mrs. T. L. Merrick, R. S. of V. G. ; M. L. Pearson, L. S. of V. G., and C. H. Van Auker, I. S. G.

Boswell Lodge, No. 480, F. & A. M., was organized under dispensation August 25, 1873, with first officers as follows : Duncan McArthur Williams, W. M. ; Hiram A. Boswell, S. W. ; Alexander Murphy, J. W. Charter members - Alexander Murphy, Hiram A. Boswell. Jacob Voltz, Duncan 3IcArthur Williams, John Spies, Charles Foster. J. A. McKnight. B. F. Hixson, S. G." Knour and William Boswell. The lodge was constituted under charter May 26, 1874, with Alexander Murphy, W. M. ; Hiram A. Boswell, S. W. ; Jacob^ Voltz, J. W. ; J. A. McKnight, Secretary ; B. F. Hixson, Treasurer ; S. G. Knour, S. D. ; John Spies, J. D., and Charles Foster. Tiler. The lodge meets in a rented hall. Value of lodge property, $175. Present officers: Alexander Murphy, W. M. ; J. A. McKnight. S. W. : Marion Menefee, J. W. ; John Spies, Secretary ; Abraham Potter. Treasurer ; Jacob Voltz, S. D. ; John F. Stokes, J. D., and Miles A. Barber, Tiler. A Post of the G. A. K., the name and number of which could not be ascertained, was organized October 1, IcSl, at Oxford, with the following chaiter members'': H. C. Shenkenborger, H. P. Chancellor, J. W. Sargent. Hiram Benedict. William M. McConnell, W. W. A'anover, A. P. Carnahan. William D. Kalb, Elisha Johnson, A. Tittsworth, P. C. Cuppy, Daniel D. Deuman, I. T. Pelliam, N. D. Coffinberry, John E. Bliss, A. D. Sleeper, J. C. Crossou, J. C. Wilmoth, S. Debra, S. B. Hare, Henry S. Lane, J. S, Albaugh, David Kelso, James Ogburn and Hiram Smith, and the following as the first officers : J. C. Crosson, Commander ; .V. D. Sleeper, Senior Vice Commander ; J, S. Albaugh, Junior Vice Comnianiler ; II. C. Slienkenberger, Surgeon ; J. C. Wilmoth, Officer of the Day : Hiram Smith, Officer of the Guard ; Z. M. Tlioraas, Quartermaster, and IT. 1'. Cliancellor. Chaplain. The present offleers are H. C. Slienkenberger, Commander of Post ; Elisha Johnston, S. V. C. ; William Dugaii, .1. A'. C. ; William ^I. McConnell, Surgeon ; Hivam Smith. 0 of ]). ; J. IMcLaughlin, (.). of G. ; Hiram Benedict, Quartermaster, and Joseph Carter, Chaiilain.

At a session (if the Hoard of Commissioners, held in January, ISoil, it was " t)rdered by the Benton County Commissioners, that we appro\e of the organization of the company known as the Benton County Horse Company, for the detection and apprehension of horse-thieves and other lelons, oraanized Oecember 27, 1S5S, and to exist ten years. .Vpproved by us this ITith clay of Januarj-, A. D. 1859." At the March session, 1861, the board say : " The West Pine Detectives of Benton County, State of Indiana, organized August 24, 1860, is hereby approved by the Board of County Commissioners, at their March term, 1861, for the term of ten years." The " Parish Grove Guards," for the purpose of detecting and apprehending horse-thieves and other felons, was organized for the term nine years, from August 25, 1877, to consist of not less than ten, nor more than fortj', members. The articles of association were signed by Henry Kobertson, Adam Harper, A. K. Diltz, William H. Boswell, Andrew Johnson, Joseph W. Ermey, Michael Wayman, A. H. Boswell, George Fell, A. J. Wolf and A. C. Brink. September 9, 1871, W. B. McConnell, Alonzo Cowgill, J. D. Smyth, J. C. TuUis, J. W. Barnes, J. D. Johnston, H. Clay Cassel, John M. Carson, W. M. Scott, John Furnas and John Morgan, all of the town of Oxford, formed an association to be known as " The Oxford Flouring Mill Association," to exist for five years from date of organization.

The Benton Conntj' Agricultural Society was organized March 25, 1873, with a capital of $10,000, which was divided into 500 shares of S20 each. The business of the association was to be transacted by a Board of Directors, of whom there were eleven, two of whom were to be chosen annually from Oak Grove Township, and one from each of the other townships in the count}^

The '- Kichland & York Fire Insurance Companjr " -^vas organized in November, 1879, to exist for ninet3--nine years. No risks were to be taken except upon farm buildings and their contents, at two-thirds of their value. The companj' was to insure against loss or damage by fire or lightning. The affairs of the association were to be managed by five directors, to be chosen annually. The articles of association contained nothing concerning assessments or subscription of stock. The original members of the association were J. Webb Taylor, George M. Drum, S. J. Curtis, William Drum, Richard Carton, Joseph Anstett, John Fisher and Anthony Dehner.

The Patrons' Mutual Fire & Lightning Insurance Company was organized at Oxford, in March, 1880, under act approved March 21, 1879. The officers of the company were to be a President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and five Directors. The members were James H. Howarth, William T. Kirkpatrick, Joseph Greenwood, Francis P. Greenwood, C. G. Phares, Samuel Phares, M. V. Bowman, Frank Benedict and George S. Gwin.

The Benton County Medical Society was organized in December, 1 874, auxiliary to the State Bledical Society. Charter members : A. W. Wells, J. W. Barnes and Jonathan Kolb, Oxford ; J. K. Thompson, Otterbein ; L. C. Page, Boswell, and S. C. Fenton, Pine Village.

The Chiquesalonghi Park & Stock Importing Association was organized in March, 1872, for the purpose of providing suitable grounds for public walks and commons, and to ornament the same wifh shade trees and shrubbery, and to import horses, cattle, sheep, hogs and other animals for agricultural purposes. Capital, 110,000 ; divided into 200 shares of $50 each. Afiairs of the association to be managed by a Board of Directors, to con-

The West Pine Detectives were organized August 24, 1860, for the purpose of mutual protection against horse or cattle thieves, and other wrongdoers. Their by-laws provide for the following officers : One President, one Vice President, one Secretary', one Treasurer, one Captain and three Lieutenants. The articles of association provide that The Captain, or, in case of his absence, the First Lieutenant shall call as many of said companj' as he may think advisable, and pursue, immediately on information, anv and all persons charged with criminal offenses against this societj-, particularly horse or cattle thieves, and counterfeiters."

The " Benton County Rangers" were organized in March, 1883, for the period of five years, for the purpose of detecting and apprehending horsethieves and other felons. Members : Samuel Phares, James Bvard, C. G-. Phares, John Crosson, John S. Lawson, W. T, Kirkpatrick, George AV. Halstead, Nathan Hibbs, Andrew Tittsworth. John Wattles, John W. Boswell, Samuel Murphy and J. B. Wattles. The Otterbein Detective's Association was organized in December, 1882.

The Oxford Lecture Association was organized December 11, 1882, -wvth Judge Charles Dailey, President ; Prof. E. D. Bosworth. Vice President ; James H. Bell, Socretar3-. and Zimri Dwiggins, Treasurer. Although the Lecture Association was not organized until the date stated, yet the citizens of Oxford had been having lectures by some of the most distinguished lecturers in the field for some two years prior to that time. Since the organization of the association, they have had lectures by the following distinguisiied lecturers ; Dr. Samuel (lodfrey. Col. L. F. Copelaud, Mary A. Livermore, Dr. James lleadley and Hon. Will Cumback.

Joseph Dchart settled in Pine Township, in Section 25, in the sprins; of 1S49, and says he helped, about the year 1853, to build the first cliuich, as he believes, that was ever built in Benton County. It was a United Brethren Cluircli,and was erected near where Mr, Dehart lived. David Brown and William Brown (brothers) were the first ministers. Among the earlv memliers were Carey A, and Jane Kastburn. John Johnson and wife, Denny Wiggins, Tliomas Bowyer and wife, and Ezekiel Dawson and wife.

I'roliably tlie next church built in the county was the Christian Church, at Oxford, wliich was dedicated to the service of Almighty God on the 19tU day of October, 1855, on which occasion Elder George Campbell preached the dedicatory sermon. The societj- at Oxford, of the denomination known as the Church of Christ, was organized at a meeting held at Oxford June 19, 1853, which was attended b}- Elders John Longlj-, H. R. Pritchard, Samuel Shortridge and Johnson. The solemn services were performed in the shade of a cluster of trees, on the land of Elder George Campbell, just west of the village. The names of the first members were George Campbell, Sarah A. Campbell, James N. Holton, Lucj" Holton, Basil Justus, Jane Justus, Elizabeth Wiles, William D. Prazee, Mrs. R. N. Parker, Mrs. Martha A. Stembel, Mrs. Maria Templeton and Nancy AVilliams. Of all those first members, Mrs. Martha A. Stembel and Mrs. Piachel N. Parker are the onlj' ones now known to be alive. The following Elders have been in charge at various times since the organization of the church : George Campbell (preached for the church at intervals for about twelve years), John Langlej', John O'Kane, William Young, John A. Campbell (two or three years), D. R. Lucas, Joseph Franklin, Henrj- R. Pritchard. William Wilson, Elijah Goodwin, C. G. Bartholomew, Benjamin Franklin, John Rowe, C. L. Warren, W. D. Owen, John H. Kalb, H. C. Cassel, C. G. Ross, A. J. Frank, William Roe and WiUiam Jarrett.

The M. E. Church, near Robert Timmons', was built about 1860. Early members : Rev. Ewen E. Stevenson, first minister ; Benjamin Hawkins and wife, John Hawkins and wife, Robert Hawkins and wife, Mrs. Sunderland, and Thomas Childs and family.

The Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in Oxford about 18 52, Rev. T. C. Workman was one of its first pastors, and Benjamin Winans Presiding Elder. Worship was held for j-ears in a hall, and subsequently in the Shideler House. By the energy and self-sacrifice of Josiah Shideler and others, the present church edifice was erected in 1865. The parsonage was built in 1873. The present membership is eighty, with a Sunday school of over 100.

St. Patrick's Church at Oxford is the oldest Catholic Church in the county. Rev. Father Stephens read the first mass at the Christian Church (a fact that greatly redounds to the credit of the professors of religion in Oxford at that time, inasmuch as it evinces a freedom from those deepseated denominational and sectarian prejudices, such as is rarely seen even at the present day, and must have been very remarkable at that early date, when such prejudices -were almost universal), next in the old court house, then at the schoolhouse, and afterward at various private houses. Rev. Father Kilroy, of La Fayette, laid the corner-stone of the present church in 1863. Father Stephens and Father O'Calahan superintended the main part of the work, and Father Diunen completed it. At that time, there was no railroad at Oxford, and the material had to be all transported from La Fay- 'ette, a distance of twenty miles, by teams. The church was supplied from La Fayette until after the war, Father Stephens, who officiated in 1865, being the first resident priest. After this, the church was supplied from La Fayette by Father Winters until 1869. Following is a list of the resident priests from that time to the present : Father O'Calahan, from September, 1864, to April, 1870; Father Dinnen, from April, 1870, to November, 1875 ; Father McCarty, from November, 1875, to October, 1877 ; Father Lang, from October, 1877, to April, 1882 ; Father Maujay, from April, 1882, to June, 1882 ; and Father P. J. Crosson,from June, 1882, to the present time For several years after the organization of the church, the members were scattered all over Benton County and the north part of "Warren County. At present, but one mission, namely, St. Bridget's, in Pine Township, is supplied from Oxford. St. Patrick's Church numbers some 200 communicants. The church is a handsome brick structure, the cost of which was about $8,000. The altar, and other church furniture, cost about S700. The priest's residence is a handsome frame building, the cost of which was about .$2,200, and was erected by Father Dinnen in 1871. Both the church and residence are situated near the depot of the Lake Erie & Western Kailroad, in an inclosure of about three acres, which contains a beautiful natural grove, and is surrounded by an arbor vita; hedge, which is kept tastefully trimmed, giving the whole a most pleasing aspect. St. Bridget's Church, more commonlj' known, perhaps, as '' Ditch Church, " from the fact of its being situated near the State ditch, was first built by Father McCarty in 1873. It was a large frame building, nearly as large as St. Patrick's Church in Oxford. About the 10th of March, 1876, before it was j-et quite completed, it was blown down by a furious wind-storm and entirely destroyed. It was re-built by Father Cahill, in 1876-77, and completed bj- Father Dempsey in 1879, at a cost of about $2,500. The church furniture is worth about S500.

The Parish Grove Catholic Church, known as Holy Trinity Church, was begun in July, 1876, and was completed in September of the same year, at a cost of about $850. The membership, which consisted of but about fifteen families at the time of the erection of the church, had been organized a short time before. It was built by English, German and French Catholics, and is situated on the northwest corner of Section 31, Township 25, Range 9, on one acre of ground bought of Bryan Brady for 8-40. In connection with the church there is a cemetery of two acres, situated in the southeast corner of Section 36, in Township 25, of Range 10. This church seems to have been rather multinominous, as it appears to have been called by the several names, St. Columbkill's, Peregrine and Holy Trinity. It now includes sixty-five families, under the care of Rev. Father John Grogan. They will shortly begiu the erection of a fine parsonage.

The Catholic Church at Fowler, known as St. John the Evangelist, was built about 1873, at a cost of about S600. There is a plat of ground, containing about two acres, in connection with the church, on which is situated a small but neat and comfortable dwelling, designed for the use and occupancy of the priest in charge ; also, a small barn, all of which have been built under the supervision of Rev. Father C. ilaujay, the present priest iu charge. Father JIaujay also supplies the ehureh at Earl Park.

about $1,200. This church has not yet been named. There are six Catholic Churches in the countj-, namely : Saint Patrick's, at Oxford ; Saint John the Evangelist's, at Fowler ; Church at Earl Park, not named ; Holy Trinity, twelve miles west of Fowler ; Saint Bridget's, about fourteen miles southeast of Fowler, and Saint Anthony's, about five miles east of Earl Park. There are cemeteries at Saint Patrick's, Holy Trinity and Saint Anthony's. Those churches are served as follows : Saint John the Evangelist and Earl Park, by Rev. Father C. Maujay ; Saint Patrick's and Saint Bridget's, by Rev. Father Patrick Crosson ; Saint Anthony's, by Rev. Father Hoss, and Holy Trinity b}' Rev. Father John Grogan. There are no Catholic Schools in the county. The public at large, without regard to sect or denomination, have shown quite a spirit of liberality in the matter of contributing to the building of the churches at Fowler and Earl Park, and Moses Fowler and A. D. Raub have been especiallj' liberal.

The M. E. Church, at Fowler, was organized in the year 1873, by Rev. Simeon C. Head, preacher in charge of Aydelot Circuit ; Battle Ground District (Northwestern Indiana Conference), Rev. J. W. McMullen, D. D., being at that time Presiding Elder. Its first membership was James Woodburn, Sr., Mary L. Woodburn, Emma Woodburn, Mary Pierce, Margaret Anderson, Mrs. Clarke, Rachel Jacobs, Carrie Jacobs, Frank Anderson, John Thorne, Lottie Hixson and Caroline Westman. The church edifice is a frame building, 40x65 feet, with corner tower, and was built in 1874, under the direction of Rev. John Blackstock, at a cost of about $1,500. The parsonage is a neat frame structure, 24x28 feet, one and a half stories in height, and was erected in 1881-82, under the direction of Revs. Burgner and Bruner, pastors for the respective years, at a cost of about $1,000. The entire property has been freed from debt during the present pastorate, but carries no insurance. The present membership numbers 146, with twenty probationers. The pastors have been Simeon C. Head, 1873 ; W. H. Green, from September, 1873. to September, 1874 ; John Blackstock, from 1874 to 1875 ; Frank Faylor, from 1875 to 1877 ; C. B. Mack, from 1877 to 1879 ; D. G. Le Sourd, fiom 1879 to 1880 ; C. S. Burgner, from 1880 to 1881, and A. R. Bruner, from 1881 to the present time.

Preshyterianism in Benton County. - [Contributed by Rev. D. E. Love.] The first minister known to have preached in the county now called Benton was Rev. James Aikman Carnahan. He was then a young man ; was a native Kentuckian ; had been brought up in Southern Indiana ; received a classical education in Louisville, Ky., and in 182^ was graduated at the Presbyterian Theological Seminary at Auburn, N. Y. !» September of that year, he returned to Indiana, and that fall made an itinerating preaching tour up the Wabash. He preached his first sermon in La Fayette November 28 1829. Here he settled, and from this point - as a home missionary of his church - made many extended preaching tours into the counties adjacent. In the summer of 1833, after organizing a Presbyterian Church at Pond Grove, ten miles west of La Fayette, he rode over to White Oak

Grove, and there preached in a barn of one of the early settlers, near to the place where the town of Oxford now stands. In the fall of 1836, he again visited the place, and was the guest of Judge David McConnell, in whose house for several succeeding j'ears he held occasional preaching services. Mrs. McConnell was a member of the Presbj'terian Church, and the Judge, in his jocular wa}' was wont to sa}', " He was a Presbyterian brother-in-law," and had a pillow and a plate for all the preachers.

There are now in Benton Count3' three Presbyterian Church organizations, with 102 church members, representing sixt^'-four families, in which are 347 souls. The churches have four Ruling Elders, nine Trustees, and property valued at $9,000.

The Oxford Presb3'terian Church was organized in the court house on Saturday, May 14, 1853, by Rev. Thomas M. Chestnut, then residing in and laboring at Rossville, Clinton Co., Ind. The original members were ten in number, since which time 120 persons have been received to church fellowship ; the present membership is twentj'-nine. During these thirty vears, the office of Ruling Elder has been held by Joseph H. Wilson, Newton Murphy, William Cochran, Dr. John S. French, Ayres Sanders, William Phares, D. H. Russell, Isaac H. Phares and David H. Dunham ; it is now filled by John H. Phai-es. The ministers who have acted as pastors were Revs. James J. Wilson, Francis Lynn, James F. Patterson, David R. Love and James L. Wilson ; six others have served as temporar3- supplies. The church edifice was erected during the ministry of Rev. J. F. Patterson, principally through the instrumentality of Ayres Sanders, J. H. Phares and Jacob Albaugh ; it is a neat substantial frame building, with stained glass windows and a bell. In it, every Sabbath morning, meets an interestiuo- Sabbath school of fifty members. The pulpit is at present vacant.

The Benton Presbyterian Church, in York Township, near Raub. was organized April 3, 1870, by Rev. John B. Smith, who for two years supplied the church, giving it one- fourth of his time. In 1874, Rev. Gideon C. Clark supplied the pulpit for a few months. Six persons constituted the original membership ; fifty-seven have, since that time, been received to church fellowship ; the present membership is thirty-two. Robert Wilkinson was the first person elected to the office of Ruling Elder, which office he still fills. Andrew Hargrave also acted as Ruling Elder twelve years. Rev. David R. Love is now the installed pastor of this church, and for the past five vears has given. one-half his time to the work there, preaching twice on each alternate Sabbath. On February 5, 1882, Revs. D. R. Love and J. B. Smith, in the presence of a large congregation, dedicated to the service of God a beautiful, substantial (lothic church edifice, entirely free of debt. It is handsomely and tastefully furnished ; a model country church. The report of the Trustees. John Ross, Joseph Ross and John JIcEwen, showed that the entire cost of the improvements made amounted to nearly 42,400. The church has an efficient Sabbath school of sixty members. -' by Revs. Gideon C. Clark and James F. Patterson, with eiglit members Tiae total number received to church membership is eightj'-seven ; the present actual membership is fort3--one. The Ruling Elders are Isaac H. Phares and Aj-res Sanders. Rev. G. C. Clark preached to the church one half of his time for eighteen months ; Revs. R. M. Neil and P, Garden supplied the pulpit a few months each. Rev. David R. Love is the first installed pastor, and since July 1, 1877, has given one-half of his time to the work here preaching twice on each alternate Sabbath, and on Sabbath afternoons at some adjacent schoolhouse. The church has a well-trained Sabbath school, with an average attendance of 100, a Woman's Missionary Society and a Thursday evening weekly prayer meeting. The church edifice was built in 1875, and was the gift of Moses Fowler, Esq. It was dedicated to tne service of God June 18, 1876, Revs. I>r. George Hickman and D. R. Love officiating. Both before and soon after its dedication, the church building was severely racked b}' a wind storm, and it became unsafe for occupancj-. It has been thoroughly repaired, at an expense of more than half the original cost, and is now one of the strongest and most commodious church edifices in the county. During the past six years, the pastor has raised and expended on the church property over s2,500. The society- is entirely free from debt, and in addition to the church edifice owns one of the coziest parsonages in the State.

The Presbj'terian Church and its ministers believe in doing missionarv work ; thej- rarely confine their labors to their own congregations, but are ever readj' to lend a helping hand to advancing everj' good cause. Take this as a sample. The following is a brief summary of Pastor Love's labors in Benton County: During the past six years, he has preached or lectured 1,028 times ; has conducted public services in every township in the countj-; has assisted in the organization of four Blue Ribbon Clubs ; was President of the Benton County Joint-Stock Association and Secretary of the County Temperance Council during their existence ; has been Secretary of ten Sabbath School County Conventions ; received 114 persons to church membership ; conducted eighty-two funeral services ; performed the marriage ceremony sixty times, and traveled with his horse and buggy over 1,000 miles in filling his appointments and making pastoral calls.

Sunday Schools

In response to a call issued to the Sunday school workers of Benton County, a goodly number of the friends of the cause met in convention in the Presbyterian Church at Fowler, Ind., Wednesday evening, June 19, 1878. Rev. D. R. Love was appointed to conduct the devotional exercises. After singing, and prayer by Rev. J. M. Stallard, the Hon. W. H. Levering, of La Fayette, addressed the convention on " The Sunday School Work in the State, and the Necessity of County Organization." ' On the day following, a permanent organization was effected, and the following officers elected ; Rev. C. B. Mock, President ; Rev. D. R. Love, Secretary, and 0. Barnard,

Treasurer. The following persons were also chosen Township Vice Presidents : Bolivar Township, S. E. Baker ; Oak Grove, Dr. Wells ; Grant, John Dangherty ; Hickory Grove, George Alexander ; Parish Grove, Andrew Hargrave ; Center, Isaac H. Phares ; Pine, C. A. Eastburn ; Gilboa, Perry D. Corkins ; Union, A. V. Flint ; Kichland, Robert Kelly, and York, Robert Wilkinson.

The convention was a complete success, and, in addition to the parties already named, was participated in by Rev. C. McCain, of Kentland ; Rev. W. S. Peter, of Remington, and Messrs. John Ross, of Raub ; R. N. Evans, of Oxford ; Charles Meader and E. A. Williams, of West Union ; Dr. J. M. Rodman, Gilboa ; 0. C. Brockwaj', J. L. Carnahan, Robert Cbenoweth and Hiram Butterfield, Fowler ; also by Sisters Ellmore, Zinn, Bugby and Mock.

It was resolved that two conventions be held annuallj'. The second convention was held in the M. E. Church, Fowler, October 9, 1878. The principal address was made b^' Rev. H. A. Gobin, of La Payette. Topic, " The Child in the Midst." The speakers at this convention were Revs. T. B. McMannis, F. Taylor, D. R. Love, C. B. Mock and Messrs. 0. C. Brockway, I. H. Phares, Father Hulse, U. Z. Wylie and A. J. Ford.

During the next two years, two conventions were held annually. That of Maj' 27, 1879, was held in the M. E. Church, Oxford, and was opened with an address bj' Rev. T. B. McMannis ; that at Boswell on October 28, and was presided over by Rev. J. J. Claypool, who also delivered the opening address. At this meeting, 0. C. Brockway was chosen President ; Rev. D. R. Love, Secretary, and Rev. D. G. Le Sourd, Treasurer. The convention of June 9, 1880, was held in the Presbyterian Church at Fowler. Rev. James Omelvena made the opening address. Topic, " The Elements of Success in Sunday- School Work." Hon. W. H. Levering, President of the State Sunday School Association, being present, addressed the convention on " Sunday School Workers." The fall convention was held at Otterbien October 27, 1880. It was opened with an address by Rev. D. R. Love, on The Sunday School Teacher's Text Book, and How to Use It." The President and Secretary were re-elected, and Thomas Daughertv chosen Treasurer. The convention of June 1, ISSl, was held in the Christian Church at Fowler. The annual address was by Rev. A. M. Blackburn, of La Fayette, on " The Worth of the Word," The fall convention was held September 21, 1881, in the Gilboa Church. Opening address by Dr. J. M. Rodman. The attendance was large, and an excellent basket dinner was provided by the Gilboa and Shiloli Schools. The President and Secretarv were re-elected, and S. E. Baker chosen Treasurer.

At the convention held June 21, 1882, in the M. E. Church, Fowler, it was resolved that hereafter one annual county convention be held in the spring, and tln'ee district conventions in the fall. Also, that hereafter, the annual convention be a (J^%ated body, consisting of " all the clergy resident in, or laboring within tlie county ; also, the Superintendent and Secretarv of every Sabbath school organized in the county, and one delegate for every twentj--five attendants in each school, these delegates to be elected b^- their several schools." Rev. J. H. Claypool made the annual address. Topic, " Children and Their Teachers." The old officers were unauimouslj' reelected, viz., 0. C. Brockwa}-, President; Eev. D. R. Love, Secretarj' ; S. E. Baker, Treasurer ; Vice Presidents, First District, A. Cowgill ; Second District, Dr. Wells, and Third District. John Ross.

In Benton County, we have 29 Sundaj' schools, with an average attendance of 1,517 persons. Seventeen of these schools are ever green, that is, carried on throughout the whole j-ear. During the past year, 82 persons have been received to church membership from our Sabbath schools. The next county convention meets in the Presbyterian Church, Fowler, June 20, 1883.

The Telephone

In December, 1882, the Western Telephone Compan3' of Chicago established a telephone line from Fowler to La Fa3-ette, with offices at Fowler, Atkinson, Templeton, Oxford and Otterbein, in Benton County. Tlie capital with which it was built was raised, principally if not whollj-, by the citizens of the county subscribing stock, for which coupon tickets were issued, in pa3'ment of which the holders were entitled to the use of the line to the amount of the subscription, at 20 per cent discount from the regular rate. This is found to be a great convenience to the public, much cheaper than the telegraph, and greatly to be preferred to it for some other reasons than that of its being a cheaper mode of transmitting intelligence. For instance, if two men in Oxford should have a slight misunderstanding, and if one should feel disposed to question tlie veracity of the other, but dare not do so for fear of punishment, condign or otherwise, he just jumps aboard the first train for Fowler, and when he gets] there repairs to the telephone office, calls up his adversary at Oxford, and calls him a liar with impunity.

The first town laid out in Benton County was the town of Oxford, situated on the south half of the southeast quarter of Section 18, and the north half of the nortlieast quarter of Section 19, in Township 24, of Range 7. The following is a description of the survey of tlie town of Oxford, the county seat of Benton County, Ind.: Beginning at the southwest corner of Block 8, on the Section line, four chains and forty-five and one-half links west of the center line of the donation ; thence extending north, at a variation of the magnetic needle of five degrees, to the northwest corner of Block 3 ; thence east at right angles to the northeast corner of Block 1 ; thence south to the southeast corner of Block 6, on the ^QCtion line ; thence, based on the Section line, west to the place of beginnmg, comprising an area of 14_8 8 acres, more or less. The lots all to be 60x120 feet; alleys twelve feet wide, and the streets sixty feet wide ; streets and alle^vs all cross each other at right angles. The public square is 120x252 feet. Ordered that the above description of said town he confirmed by the Board of Commissioners of Benton County. The foregoing is an extract from the record of the proceedings of the Board of County Commissioners at their September session, 1848.

The town was surveyed iu the spring of 1843, and at the October term, 1843, of Commissioners' Court, it was Ordered that the Count)- Agent proceed to advertise and sell the lots in the town of Oxford, the sale to be on the first Monday in December, 1843, the terms of sale to be one-third in six months, one-third in twelve months, and one-third in eighteen months." There were a number of lots sold at this sale, yet the town did not seem to increase rapidly in population, as appears from the fact that the Board of Commissioners, at their June session in 1846, "Ordered that any person moving to and settling in Oxford, and putting up a house worth S200, shall have two lots, one corner, if vacant, and one back, said houses to be built by the 1st of June. 1847, and the selection of lots to be made iDy the 1st of September, lS4(i." The following sl-cetch of the town of Oxford was kindly furnished by Mrs. A. J. Carnahan, an' early settler of the town : - May 17. 1843, Commissioners were appointed to locate the county seat of this county, who located the same at the northern part of White Oak Grove, where the tewn of Oxford now stands. The first house built in Oxford was the court house, a frame building two stories liigh. Francis Boynton was the architect and builder. Dr. Thompson (late of Rainsville), plasterer, and Isaac Lewis, of CXxford, hod-carrier. The court house stood where the Buckej'e Block now stands. From there it was moved to the public square, then to the ground now occupied by Zeis' grocery store, whence it was moved to its present resting place, where it is now occupied by James Connellj- as a saloon. The second house was a hotel, built by Henry L. Ellsworth, of which James L. Hatton was first proprietor. First dwelling-house was built by Aaron Wood, on the lot now occupied b_v John Carnahan. jeweler. The first store was a small affair, consisting of a few groceries, lieer and wliislv}', kept by Aaron Wood. The first dry goods store, Earl & Carnahan ; first drug store, Barnes & Dailey ; first blacksmith. Dailey : first resident lawyer, Jacob Benedict; first physician, Dr. Mayo ; first preacher. Rev. Sell ; first editor, Joseiih W. Jaclvson. The first family was Hartley T. Howard's, wlio lived in the court house. First couple married. Barton Wood (l>rotlicr of Aaron Wood) and Mattie Howard, daughter of Hartley T. Howard. A child born to tliem was the first child born in the town. The first sclioolhouse was built of logs, on the lot now occupied by Volney Benediet. First cluireh. Christian, George Campliell, pastor. First literarv society, Oxford Ijyeeuni."

Tlic following additions have been made to 0.\:ford : By Basil Justus, December 11, ISfiL!, thirty-two lots, two streets and two alleys each wav; Basil Justus' Second Addition, December 1, IS,"!,'), foitv-six lots; James W-

Barnes" Addition, September 19, 1870, twenty lots; Basil Justus' Third Addition, Maj- 25, 1870, fortj'-six lots; James Campbell's Addition, November 9, 1870, four lots; Jasper N. McConnell's Addition, June 10, 1872, eight lots; W. J. Templeton's First Addition, April 11, 1866, thirt3'-one lots; W. J. Templelon's Second Addition, April 2, 1873, eight3' lots; W. J. Templeton's Third Addition, June 7, 1873, twelve lots; David McConnell's First Addition, August 28, 1855, thirt)--six lots; David McConnell's Second Addition, Februarv 18, 1858, thirtj'-six lots. B3' order of the Board of Commissioners, March term, 1864, Justus' Third Addition to the town of Oxford, consisting of thirtj'-nine lots, was vacated. The parties who, upon the removal of the county seat from Oxford to Fowler, obligated themselves to pay the appraised value of the county property at Oxford, denied the validity of the bond which they had given, and offered to compromise by paying S2,500, instead of $6,750, the appraised value of the property, and after consulting good legal authoritv in regard to the matter, the board at their September session, 1875, decided to accept the terms proposed by the bondsmen, and ordered the grounds conveyed to the town of Oxford, together with the jail building thereon. It seems that provision had been made by the donor of the lands on which the county seat was established, that ten per cent of the proceeds of the sales of the lands or town lots, should go to purchase a county library. The library was organized in June, 1852, with Daniel Mills as Librarian, and Joseph W. Jackson as Treasurer and Cierli. The election held for the purpose of deciding the question whether Oxford should be incorporated was held at the court house on July 7, 1S69, and resulted in forty-one votes being cast in favor of incorporation, and twenty-eight against it. Judge David McConnell is one of the old landmarks of the town of Oxford, he having settled on the very spot on which he now resides in 1834. He says he has killed many a deer on the present site of the town. The first bank in Oxford was established in 1873. Brackenbrough & Perrin, of La Fayette, being the principal stockholders, Theophilus Stembel, President, and Luther D. Hawley, Cashier. The present bank was established December 15, 1879, by Robert S. Dwiggins, of Rensselaer, Robert S. Fisher, of Union City, and Zimri Dwiggins, of Oxford, R. S. Dwiggins being President, Z. Dwiggins, Cashier, and W. J. McConnell, Assistant Cashier. They first started with §30,000 capital, but could not use so much, and reduced it to 820,000.

The present business of Oxford is as follows: Conrad H. Zeis, James Bryant, William H. Kelley and Charles Green, grocers; John J. Ripple, dry goods and clothing; Winfield Menefee, boots and shoes; Heth & Co., dry goods; C. H. Zeis, bakery; John P. Ross, furniture and undertaker; James Conley, saloon (old court house); Jacob S. Albaugh, butcher; William Shelby, barber; Dr. H. C. McConnell, druggist; William M. Scott, druggist; Margaret Young, milliner; Michael Kelly, saloon; William C. Parker & Co., carriage shop; Isaac Lewis & Son, grain dealers; Dwiggins & Dwiggins, Commercial Bank; C. E. Steele, hardware and tin shop; Smith & Ambler, meat market; James Bell, proprietor Ohio House; George Pagett, Postmaster;

Charles Dailey, attorney; Jacob Miller, Justice of the Peace; Sampson McMillen, furniture; Jacob Benedict, attorney and Notary Public; Mrs. Mary Ferguson and Mattie Lewis, milliners; Mrs. Frances M. Johnson, milliner; Joseph B. Lane, drugs and books; Campbell & Cobb, boots and shoes; Peter Jones, blacksmith; John W. Bradley, hardware; Lewis & Scott, livery; A. P. Carnahan, saloon; Levi Waldrip, blacksmith; A. Johnson, tailor; John G. Carnahan, jeweler; Charles (jreen, restaurant; James Campbell, photographer; Joel C. Wilmoth, hardware ; Smith & Messner, dry goods and clothing; Charles Boss, dentist; Misses Maggie and Lucy Dodson. milliners and dress-makers; Kobert Wood, saddles and harness; Mark J. Brier, blacksmith and carriage shop; Miss Lizzie Sunderland, milliner and dress-maker; Dr. A. S.Wells; Dr. Jonathan Kolb; Lamson & Bro., tile factory; Allen McGuire and Washington L. Bryant, painters; John Richards, barber; Benedict & Winegardner, Elisha Johnson, Smith & Steele, and George W. Bliss, carpenters.

Towx Of Fowler

The town of Fowler was named in honor of Moses Fowler, of La Fayette, who owned the land upon which the public buildings at Fowler are situated, and donated the same to the county, besides making a very liberal donation toward the erection of those buildings. The town was first platted by Moses Fowler and wife, October 26, 1872, consisting of 583 lots. It was re-platted April 8, 1875, by Moses Fowler and Adams Earl and their wives, containing, as re-platted, 1,(J02 lots and twenty blocks, ranging from one to ten acres. The following additions have been made from time to time : Fowler's Addition of outlets on the east side of the original plat, consisting of forty-nine lots, ranging from two to fourteen acres, January 30, 1875 ; Leroy Templeton and wife, June 12, 1875, forty -eight lots ; Henry Jacobs and wife, September 17, 1875, thirty-six lots ; Moses Fowler and wife (north addition), June 19, 1875, fourteen lots, from one to two acres each. Henry D. Clark built the first business house in the town of Fowler in June, 1S71, about where Joseph Warner's furniture store now is. It was a small building, composed of rough boards, and his stock was correspondingly small, consisting of a little of everything and not much of anything. He prospered, however, and increased his stock from time to time, until he came to have a pretty fixir stock. Scott Shipman built the first house, a dwelling, in March, 1871, where Dupie's saloon now stands. The next house was built by James S. Anderson, and is the house now owned and occupied b_v William AVarner, The third liouse was built by John E, Mitchell, During the summer and foil of 1871, J. C. Simpson built five dwellings on Washington street. The second business house was built by Moses Fowler, and is the building now occupied by G. J, Lobdell, grocer, and Snyder & Crandall, hardware. Henry Jacobs & Son, from Oxford, put a stock of groceries into this building upon its being completed. The Summit House was completed in July, 1871, by Moses Fowler, but was not occupied until fall, and then by William I\L Jones. The elevators were built in 1871, by L. Templeton.

The first Postmaster in Fowler was John E. Mitchell, who kept the office in his blacksmith shop for about five months, when Henry Jacobs became Postmaster, and the office was removed to his store. The schoolhouse was built in the summer and fall of 1871. The present business of Fowler is as follows : G. J. Lobdell, groceries and queensware ; Snj'der & Crandall, hardware ; John H. McClar3', restaurant ; 0. G. Brockway, general merchandise; M. J. Carr, saloon ; Benjamin Schaflfer, general merchandise ; G. W. Jones & Co., druggists ; Ed Williams, boots and shoes ; Trent & Eakin, groceries; Kosenthall Bros., clothing ; J. M. Jones, merchant tailor ; Bailey & Warner, dry goods and groceries ; Thomas Baldwin, furniture and undertaker ; Leon Simonds, drugs ; H. Butterfield, harness-maker ; A. Meyer, dry goods and groceries ; Mrs. Woods, millinery store ; Mrs. Westman, millinery ; James Simpson, grocerj' and butcher shop ; Mrs. McClure, millinery ; Thomas Maddux, Maddux House ; Fowler Era ; J. M. Stow, silversmith ; Mrs. Stow, milliner ; James Moore, restaurant and boarding ; Matthews Bros., grocery and bakerj' ; Chaffer & Son, grocery and bakery ; M. McCaslin, saloon ; Ed Hughes, saloon ; C. Johnson, harness-maker ; Joseph Dunner, barber ; Hawkins Bros., meat market ; McKinney Bros., hardware and agricultural implements ; James Long, dry goods ; J. S. Mavity, physician ; James Hughes, barber ; Henrj' Templeton, Summit House ; E. Mombleau, harness; Barnes & Payne, druggists ; Frank Taylor, Postmaster ; J. S. Palissard, drj' goods ; S. Seney, groceries ; Jacob Smith, bools and shoes ; Fowler Bank ; Mrs. Holden, boarding house ; Underbill, news depot ; Nicholas Dupies, saloon ; Richard Manke, hardware and tin shop ; Samuel McDaniel, agricultural implements ; Peter Bruette, blacksmith ; E. V. & E. Brake, carriage-makers ; Lafountain & McDaniel, liver3r and sale stable ; T. K. Harmon, marble shop ; John E. Mitchell, blacksmith and machinist; J. C. Lobdell, planing and grist mill ; H. V. T. Huls, Pioneer Mills ; W. H. Herman, lumber and coal ; Henry D. Clark, coal yard and junk dealer ; J. P. Smith & Co., lumber and coal, also proprietors of tile factory. The tile factory at Fowler is probably the most extensive factory in the county, except that at Templeton. There is also a flax baling mill at Fowler, which was built since January, 1883.

In September, 1875, the town of Fowler contained ten lawyers, one minister, three doctors, one dentist, one baker, two barber shops, three billiard saloons, two blacksmith shops, one wagon shop, three boot and shoe stores, one grain elevator, two dry goods stores, twenty carpenters, one furniture store, two stove and tin stores, one hardware store, one hotel, three restaurants, two drug stores, three millinery establishments, two saloons, two livery stables, three retail groceries, one clothing store, one merchant tailor, one graded school, two printing offices, two lumber yards, two churches and about 1,200 inhabitants.

At the September term of Commissioners' Court, 1882, a petition was presented, praying for the vacation of a portion of Fowler, which petition was granted, and the portion of the town within the following boundary was vacated : All that part lying west of Washington avenue and south of Seventh street ; said tract being bounded on the north by Seventh street, oa the east by Washington avenue, on the south by the south line of the plat, and on the west by the west line of the town plat.

Town Of Raub

The town of Kaub consisted originallj- of seventy-one lots, and was laid out by A. D. Raub April 8, 1872. On April 7, 1881, Ira Perkins and wife made an addition to it of eighteen lots. The first house built in Raub was built b}f Ira Perkins, before the railroad was constructed through there.- The first house built in the town after it was laid out was a dwelling house built by A. Houser, in the fall of 1871, after the railroad was completed. In the same fall, Shonkwiler & Perkins went into the grain business. The grain elevator was built by Shonkwiler & Perkins about 1874. A stor}' in height and also steam were added to the grain elevator in or about 1878. The first store was built by H. E. Burchell, in the fall of 1871, and the stock put in consisted of groceries and notions. The second store was built by Henry Wright in 1873, in which a general stock was put by Samuel White the nest spring. In the fall of 1876, he sold out to James Ross, who now occupies it. The next store building was built in the fall of 1874. by Smith & Beard, for hardware. After about a year. Smith bought Beard out, and continued until the spring of 1883, wheu he sold to W. W. Wilson & Co. The next was the building now occupied by Thomas Keefe. built bv Dehner & Ferdinand in the summer and fall of 1874. for a drug store. This building was subsequently oecaijied by several different parties for different purposes. The next building was put up by W. H. Verrill for a saloon. Next was by Joseph Warner, for a saloon, now occupied by James Burrv as a drug store and doctor's office. Dwellings were built about 1874 by S. J, Gillett, Thomas Keefe and Peter Booty. Present business : J. Shonkwiler, grain ; James Burry, physician and drugs ; Keefe & Co., general store ; James Ross, general store ; Thomas Keefe, groceries ; W, W. Wilson Ot Co., hardware, agricultural implements and lumber; Thomas O'Neil, notions: B. Brown, blacksmith ; John Plunkett, blacksmith, i'larl Park was laid out July 31, 1S72, by Adams Earl and wife, and A, P. Raub, and consisted of 217 lots. The first building erected in Earl Park was the grain elevator, by Ilixson, Sherry & Mclntyre, The second was tlie iiotol now kept by IMoxie Burlage, by Charles Prue. commenced in the fall of 1871, and completed in the spring of 1872, Next, Silas H. Kent, dwelling. Next, Elias Wees, residence and store ; first stock of goods in the town, consisting of groceries and provisions, fair country stix'k. Next, Roliert Kelly, store room and residence together, general stock About same time, II, M. Beckwith moved his residence trom York T(nvnship, a distance of about nine miles. Beckwith, the first Justice of the Peace in the town

First drug store, John E. M. Stout. In the summer of 1872, Raub & Earl put up a building in which thej' started a general store. Calix Buchard was the first blacksmith. His shop was moved into the town from some other locality. August 8, 1872, there was a public sale of lots in Earl Park, at which there were about 2,000 people. There was a free train from La Fayette, and free lunch at Earl Park. There is a beautiful park at Earl Park, containing about eighty acres of ground. There are two churches in the town - Catholic and Methodist - the former of which was built in 1880, and the latter in 1881. They cost about $2,500 each. The schoolhouse was built about 1874, one-story frame, cost about $1,000. About 1878, a story was added, at a cost of about $1,000 ; two schools, one above and one below. Present business : M. C. FoUansbee & Co., general store ; Eli Douglas, boots and shoes ; H. M. Beckwith, general store and post office ; Brackenbrough & Brothers, dr\' goods and groceries ; Joseph Laroche, harness shop ; Thomas Mclnerney, saloon ; Drs. R. R. Boice & Son, drugs ; Hartley & Holton, groceries ; S. R. Meader, hotel ; Laurence Braugh, saloon ; Jerrj^ Tinsman, meat shop ; R. Gers, bakerj' and confectionery ; William Burns, saloon ; John Stout, druggs ; Moxie Burlage, hotel ; Borders Brothers, livery ; first physician. Dr. Silas H. Kent, now deceased ; first lawyer, Llewellyn Gwinn ; next, F. W. Hatch ; next, H. M. Breckwith ; first shoemaker, Benjamin Martin ; first Postmaster, Weis ; next, Robert

Kelly ; next, F. W. Hatch ; next and last, H. M. Beckwith. Present blacksmiths, Charles Sord, Moses Liguea and Charles Bradley ; Raub, Earl & Henry, dealers in grain, lumber, hardwood, furniture, coal and wood, and stock dealers ; Charles E. Woodington, agent C, I. St. L. & C. Railroad Co. Present teachers, Joseph S. Van Natta and wife ; pastor 51. E. Church, Rev. Braner ; Catholic Priest, Rev. Father Maujay.

Town Of Tejipleton

Templeton was laid out by William J. Templeton and wife December 23, 1873, in 225 lots, and subsequently an addition was made of nine lots by same parties. The first building in Templeton was the small shanty now in rear of the building occupied by John Cosgrove as a dwelling, built by James Knight, same season town was laid out. Next, three dwellings, all about the same time, by Col. W. J. Templeton, Joseph Blue and G. H, Finch, and Joseph Dehart, Finch & Co. The three houses alluded to were the Blue House, a store building occupied by Finch & Son, and the other the building owned by W. J. Tenipleton. Next, a residence by James E. Murdock, now occupied by Col. W. J. Templeton. Nest, the Junction House, by J. E. Murdock. The elevators were built by Hayes & Brother, in 1874, and are now occupied by David Lanham & Co. as a general store. Elevators at Easton, built two years ago by John Stingle & Olney, now owned by Stingle. Mrs. Johnson's residence was built in 1876 ; tile factory, built by John Fernald, in 1881, twelve hundred feet of shed, two large kilns, one at each end, run by steam power. Present business : David Lanham

& Co., dry goods and groceries, a large stock ; Joseph Dehart, notions, and butclier shop ; Finch & Son, dry goods and groceries ; John Rosa, groceries ; Dr. C. W. Fall, drugs and physician ; Blue House ; Railroad House ; Jasper Bristow, physician. Col. Templeton is feeding 400 head of cattle, and 300 head of hogs. He also farms extensively.

Town Of Boswell

Boswell was laid out by Elizabeth H. Scott and husband July 18, 1S72, 112 lots ; addition by Samuel P. Smith and wife December 22, 1872, twentythree lots ; another by same, October 6, 1872, sixteen lots ; one by McKnight & Spies June 9, 1873, four lots ; one by Joshua M. Foster and wife December 5, 1872, forty-three lots. The town was first laid out by Charles Moore, who sold it to Elizabeth Scott October 27, 1871, who replatted it. The first house in Boswell was a dwelling, just north of where A. Potter's livery stable now stands, which was built b}* S. P. Smith, about three- j-ears before the town was laid out. First building after the town was laid out, and in which first business was done, was a rough board shanty, about twelve feet square, on the north side of the railroad, built bv A. Murphj*, who had a small general stock. Next building, by J. W. Hash & Son, about the time the railroad was completed to this place ; hauled material from 0-xford ; general stock put in by Hash & Buckles. Nest, a building with two rooms, put up b}' Taylor & Smith, and McKnight & Spies ; general stock in each room. Next building, in the southwest part of town, a residence b^- Lewis Halston. Next, a hotel (the Boswell House). Pioneers in the different lines of business : McKnight & Brother, general stock ; H. N. Carson, hardware ; Charles Hoffman, drugs ; I. B. Ebberly, blacksmith and wagon-maker ; Jacob Yole, shoe-maker and shoe store ; Hash & Son, dry goods ; John Spies, groceries. Present business : 0. H. & J. Smith, clothing ; Canes & Leach, hardware ; Harris & Stembel, dry goods ; John Spies, groceries and furniture ; C. H. Miller, editor Boswell Courier, and Postmaster ; Davis & Deer, boots and shoes ; Menefee & Brother, drugs ; Thomas Davis, groceries ; Gillespie & Son, groceries ; James T. Moore, saloon ; W. T. Keys, hardware ; Thomas Kuott, harness ; C. L. Foster & Co., boots and shoes ; William Bailey, barber ; (iillespie & Brother, furniture and groceries ; Gilger & McDonald, dry goods ; W. D. Simpkins, drugs; Mrs. Jennie James, milliner and dress-maker: Joseph Moore, photographer ; P. H. Collins, saloon ; Joseph Earhart, butcher ; David Weaver, groceries ; McKnight & Brother, general stock ; Charles Menefee, lumber ; [P. M. Clanoey, bakery and confectionery ; M. Melvin, groceries ; Asa A^anover, Vanover House ; W. D. Simpkins, Boswell House ; Abe J'otter, livery ; W, A. Dunshee, livery ; Dr. J. W. Green, Dr. J. II. Whitcomb, Dr. J. B. Christley and Dr. J. Simpkins, physicians ; Smith & Ebberly, blacksmiths and wagon-makers ; Stokes & Myers, carpenters and builders ; S. 1'. Smith and 8. II. Arms, grain dealers' Wesley Alexander, coal dealer ; Mrs. J. Richards, milliner and dress-maker ; Albert Brant, marble shop; O. V. Cones, jeweler; N. G. Fauth, shoe-maker; George.

Town Op Ambia

Ambia was laid out by Ezekiel M. Talbot and wife, February 22, 1875, and consisted of 122 lots; addition, November 26, 1881, by Charles L. White, 28 lots. The first building in Ambia was erected b\- James C. Pugh, and is now owned by Washington Pugh; built about 1873; next, the elevators, same season, by James C. and William Pugh, the first grain dealers; the first business house, by Thomas Moore and Arnold Moore, small general stock, built at Weaver, about half a mile west of Ambia, and moved to Ambia in spring of 1873; first stock of goods in the town; first blacksmith, James 0. Pugh; next store by Henrj- and Samuel Parker; first drug store by Dallas M. Kelley; first hardware, William Parker; first physician, James Beard; first hotel, Robert Whitten. Present business; Dallas B. Kelley, Ambia House ; I. Reed Allen, general store; William A. Kline, furniture and undertaking; J. H. Myers, hardware; W. T. James, confectionery; John W. Scott, drugs; A. S. Fix, barber; Alfred Goodrick, groceries, boots and shoes and queensware; C. J. Clawson, jeweler; Dr. J. M. Beard and Dr. Evans, physicians; 0. L. Ross, meat market; Simeon H. Bowyer, agricultural implements; James Fix, saloon; Acres & Golden, bakery, grocery and confectionery; B. C. Parker, groceries, confectionery and lunch; A. R. Brown, harness; Golden & Manny, general store; S. A. Parker, groceries and provisions; and J. T. McCormick, general store.

Talbot And Otterbein

Talbot was laid out by Ezekiel M. Talbot and wife, February 18, 1873, seventy-two lots. Otterbein was laid out by John Levering and wife, October 25, 1872, sixty lots; addition, April 24, 1883, by Mary A Clancey. Dr. John K. Thompson built the first dwelling house in the town of Otterbein, and Henry H. Moore the first business house, a general store. William Otterbein Brown was the first Postmaster, and held the office until his death.

Murder

No Sheriflf of Benton County has ever yet had the very unpleasant duty thrust upon him of inflicting the death penalty upon a human being, yet, if capital punishment is ever right, undoubtedly Sherifi' Henry C. Harris ought, in justice, to have been called upon to perform the office of executioner to

James Leonard McCullougli, for the murder.jn cold blood, of iMorgan, in York Township, about the year 1861 The facts in this case, briefly stated, areas follows: About the year 1860, Morgan went from Warren Count3-, Ind., to tja.e, pineries in Wisconsin, and remained there, working in the pineries, until about 1862, when, after having acquired a good team of horses and about $800 in gold, he started to return homc/^. On his way home, he fell in with McCullough, who said his folks lived nea|- Mu«eiej and, partly for the purpose of having company to relieve the tedium of the trip, and partly through a desire to accommodate, he took McCullough in to ride in his wagon as far as thej' would go together. They reached Benton County, traveling together, and encamped for the night in York Township, not far from the line. Morgan never left that camping place alive. Either during the night, whilst Morgan was asleep, or the next morning while they were getting their breakfast and preparing to resume their journey, McCullough shot Morgan in the head with his (Morgan's) own gun, and afterward chopped him in the head with an ax ; after which he concealed the body in a pond of water, and resumed his journey, stopping in Oxford the next morning and getting Morgan's horses shod, as though nothing had happened. December 23, 1867, Morgan's bones were found in the pond, which was then dry, by John Fleming, Sr.; whereupon an inquest was held upon the remains by the Coroner, Dr. Jonathan Kolb, who, from the appearance of the bones, and from certain other facts, made the following deductions : That the murdered person had been a man; that he was about six feet high; that he was about thirty-five years old; that he smoked and chewed tobacco; that he had had a rib broken about six months before he was killed; that he had a tooth extracted, and that he was a mechanic. It was afterward ascertained that he was six feet and one inch in height, that he was thirtj--flve years of age, smoked and chewed; had had a rib broken and a tooth extracted, and, in fact, that the doctor's deductions were all practically correct. Further, the evidence produced at the trial showed that Morgan had had his left foot nearh' cut off, and the boot found where the murder had been committed, showed that it had been worn on a crippled foot. Dr. Kolb went to Wisconsin to procure evidence in tlie case, and so well was the matter worked up that the State was enabled to make out, and did make out, as clear a case against McCullough as ever could be made out against a man on circumstantial evidence. Pending his trial, he broke jail at Oxford and was a^ large for the period of about three weeks, when he was recaptured near Muncie, and confined from that time on until his trial came ott in the jail at La Fayette. He came very near getting out of the La Fayette Jail, and would have done so if he had a little more time. 3IcCnllongh's trial was a very tedious one, costing the county about 81,800, and resulting in his conviction, with a life sentence in the penitentiary, at which place he died about two years ago. '4 W. 1,1 ry '

In the trial of this case, the State was very ably represented by Simon Tliorapson, of Rensselaer, Prosecuting Attorney, assisted by John L. Miller. of La Fayette, whilst the prisoner was ably defended by Col. D. Hart and R. C. Gregory.

Miscellaneous

J. W. Barnes was the first newsdealer in the county. Bolivar Township was named for Bolivar Finch, now a merchant and Postmaster in Teuiplcton.

I'arisli Grove Township was named for an Indian chief by the name of Parish. He is buried in the grove, which w.as a favorite resort for the Indians during the summer.

In 1830, Thomas Atkiusoii was engaged in herding cattle on the prairie in what is now the southern part of Benton County, and near the old Indian trail from Scott's Landing to Iroquois and Pox Rivers. The early hunters and trappers would sometimes unintentionally stampede his cattle, and took no great pains to avoid such a result. The Indians, however, having learned that Mr. Atiiinson was a descendant of William Penn, when going back and forth along their trail, took every precaution to avoid frightening his cattle, and invariably treated him with the utmost respect. This fact Mr. Atkinson cherishes as one of the brightest recollections of a long and well-spent life. In 1840, Basil Justus, for some cause, failed to make return of the Congressional election in Benton Count}' as he was required by statute to do, and for this dereliction of duty he was indicted, and, at the November term of the Benton Circuit Court, he was fined the sum of $20. The fine was afterward remitted by the Governor, Samuel Bigger.

Alice and Phffibe Carey resided for a time (Alice about one year, and Phcebe about four years) in Oxford with their sister, Mrs. Alexander Swift, and, while there, wrote some of their best poems.

Miscellaneous Acts Of The Board

At a special session of the Board of Commissioners in March, 1873, a reward of $500 was offered for the arrest and detention of James L. Mc- Cullough, an escaped prisoner, and at the June session following, the Commissioners assumed the payment of a reward of $200, which had been offered by Henry C. Harris, Sheriff, for the arrest of McCullough, they being satisfied of McCullough's arrest, and that the escape had not occurred through Harris' negligence. The Board of Commissioners, at their September session, 1874, offered a reward of $100 " for the killing of each dangerous animal in the county, provided it be lion, lioness, tiger, panther, leopard, jaguar or puma." The order recites that there is some animal at large in the county that is doing great damage to stock in various parts of the county. The reward has never yet been claimed by any one.

Prisoners iMust Work. - At the December session of the board, 1881, it was " Ordered by the board that persons incarcerated in the county jail, while held for punishment, or for non-payment of fines, or costs, whether the judgment also embraces imprisonment, or is for fines and costs only, shall be put to hard labor on the public streets, alleys and sidewalks in the town of Fowler, or upon other public works." It is further provided in the order that necessary guards shall be employed to guard the prisoners whilst they are at work, who shall receive $1.50 per day, which shall be paid out of the county treasury, when the prisoners are at work on highways out of town, and to be paid out of the town treasury when at work in the town of Fowler. It is also provided that when necessary in the opinion of the Sheriff, a ball and chain may be attached to any prisoner while thus at work on the streets or highways.

Cattle Disease in lfi68. - At a special session of the Board of Commissioners August 7, 1868, the board being composed of Benjamin Hawkins, William Marvin and Robert M. Atkinson, it was ordered that, " Whereas, it is made to appear to this board that there is now, at this time, a disease prevailing among the native cattle of the count}- of Benton, State of Indiana, whereb}' the owners of said cattle are suffering great loss ; and, whereas, it is believed, and generallj' known to be communicated bj' cattle brought from the State of Texas, known and commonly called Texas cattle ; therefore, it is hereby ordered that said cattle, commonlj- known and recognized as Texas cattle, are hereby prohibited from running at large on the uninclosed lands in an}' of the townships of said county of Benton and State of Lidiana, and this order is declared to be supplemental to an order heretofore made by this board, prescribing what animals shall run at large in the several townships of the count}- and State aforesaid."

Following are the names of the Benton County bar : Merrick & Travis, Walker & Phares, Smith & Gray, A. Cowgill. William Jones. Brown & Stewart, Straight & Wiley, Lee Dinwiddle. Charles Dailey. Jacob Benedict, L. D. Hawley, Daniel Fraser, George Wadsworth, John L. Richards, John L. Pearson, George Hartley, William H. C. Isbam, J. W. Cole and H. M. Beckwith.