Richland Township (part 1 of 2)

The Earth Structure

I hesa section of the county possesses many interesting features, not only from its natural attractions, but from the fact that it was settled at a very early day and grew to worth and prominence while other portions were yet comparatively uninhabited. Of course the township has the usual characteristics of exterior and interior that belong to Monroe County as a whole. 'There are the argillaceous bluffs, with their soil of semi- sterility; there are the lower lands, where the agriculturist usually reaps his best, if not only, valuable return; there are the timber tracts, which have been largely denuded of their best woods; and there is that broken, cut-up appearance so common to the southern part of the Hoosier State. The lower lands are usually of a rich combined soil of sand, lime, clay and alluvium, the latter often predominating and affording a mellow, fertile tract of the greatest value, and one greatly sought after by those who understand the requirements of good crops. An abundance of excellent limestone is found near the surface, and is being worked by numerous companies. The section at the quarry, one and a half miles north of Ellettsville, is as follows:

Limestone {Tara Division Lower St Louis Group) dark gray, abaly and silicious, containing the following fossils: Nautilus collectus, Bellerophon sublevis, Orthoceras Sp., Pleurotomaria worthent, Terebratula formosa, T. tergida, Pentremitis conoideus and P.

WS SONVIENNIS ro ee eee AEE EEEn EEA RE EAA eA Ere EEEE REEE 8 Limestone, same group, light gray, fine-grained Odlitio, containing fossils of the Spurgeon Hill varieties..........ssccscsscseseecsseseee. 2

Chester sandstone, unfossiliferous.............cceeceeececeecereceeeesereeeeees 3U Argillaceous and cherty layers, containing water-worn fossils in a fragmentary condition........sessressrsrrrrsrererrrrrrerrerrnrsrrerenresss 10 Limestone (Upper St. Louis Group), light gray, hard and silicious,

The State Geologist says: 'The Oolitic limestones of Monroe County, by reason of accessibility and other valuable considerations, are of vast importance to the material prosperity and progress of the State of Indiana." He gives the general geological section of the county as follows :

Chester eandstone and iron ore deposits..........e-ceeeeereceeccseeeeevers 65 Upper St. Louis limestone and cherty Inyers.....-.--+-.+-.-s1eeeeeeerees 35 Lower St. Louis limestone, Warsaw Division..........ceeeeeeereeeeeeees 45 Keokuk limestone, buff Colored. . 2.5. -ccccccscsccscdseeccccsestiossccevesscses 7 Keokuk limestone, light or bluish gray...........--+seseereseneeeeeeeeeees 23 Knob sand stone:..<.<.ssrscencereacucetenactnscgcecaeeeesasas somes AESA E REAA 70 Knob shale, blue and buff colored :..c.<-ccc--ccoccsccsacssts sccsessmecevede 130

The Early Settlement

A very large portion of this township, comparatively, was entered in 1816, as soon as the land was thrown into market, and this circumstance reveals the fact that not only was the first settlement before that time, but it was very rapid when thus begun. In 1816, the following entries of land were made at the land office at Vincennes: John Ketchum, on Section 1; Jonathan Lindley, Roderick Rawlins, Joseph Evans and Asa Osborn, on Sections 2 and 3; Lewis Noel. on Section 4; Jonathan Gilbert, on Section 8; George Cutler and George Sharp, on Section 9; James Parks, on Section 10, also James Wright on the same; Archibald Wood and James Goodwin, on Section 11; Samuel Caldwell, on Section 13; John Bigger, James Parks and Samuel Elliot, on Section 14; Ambrose Carlton, on Seccion 15; Archibald Wood and Samuel Caldwell, on Section 17; Jacob Cutler and William Bradford, on Section 18; Joseph Harris, on 21; John Simons, on 22; Ambrose Carlton and Asa Coltrin, on Section 23; Chris. Eslinger and John Gordon, on Section 24; John McCormick, on 26; Jonathan Lindley and John Simons, on 27; Solomon Bower, on 28, also on the same section Joseph Kennedy, William Thornton and Abel Bigelow; David Johnson, on 29; John Fullen and William Baker, on 30; John Perishaw, on 31; David Sears and Daniel Zincks, on 32; Abel Bigelow, William Oliver and Edward Archer, on 33; Thomas Hodges and Joseph Taylor, on 34; Samuel Rogers and Benjamin Johnson, on 35; Fred Smoyers and David S. Chambers, on 36. In 1817, the following entries were made: Henry Kirkham, on Section 1; Henry Wampler, on the same; Coleman Puett, on 4, William Latherlin on the same; Joseph Reeves, on 9; Henry Wampler and Samuel Hazlett, on 25; Eli Lee, on 26; Samuel Rogers, on 35. Jonathan Gilbert bought on Section 5 in 1818; John Armstrong, on Section 1 in 1819; T. R. Harley, on Section 6 in 1820; Joseph Kennedy, on Section 28 in 1824; Joel A. Dyer, on Section 7 in- 1828. These were nearly all the entries previous to 1830. After the rush of 1816, the sales were few for many years.

It is difficult to state who was the first permanent settler in this township. Several tracts were purchased in 1816, as will be seen from the above, but so far as can be learned only one family came out that fall to reside in the township during the winter. In about October, 1816, William Edmundson, without owning the land, located within a short distance of Ellettsville, erecting there a small, round-log cabin, in which he domiciled his family. He did not enter his land - the northwest quarter of

Section 9 - but after a number of years bought it of the man who did enter it - probably George Cutler. During the winter of 1816-17, Mr. Edmundson cleared about five acres for the coming year's crop. No other family is now known to have lived in the township during this winter. However, James and George Parks, George Sharp, Coleman Puett, Lewis Noel and two or three other heads of families erected rude log cabins on their respective farms late in the fall of 1816, or during the winter of 1816-17, and the men lived in the same (" bached '') all winter, clearing in the meantime land for the crop of 1817. Early the next spring the families of these men arrived and became residents in the log cabins. Among those who came in 1817 were the families of the Parkses, George Sharp, Lewis Noel, Coleman and Joseph Puett, William Milligan, Jonathan Gilbert, Joseph Reeves, Samuel Ellett and probably half a dozen others. Johnston Sharp, yet living, says this was the first settlement of the township. James Parks, Sr., then about thirty-six years old, was the leading man of the settlement. He lived to the remarkable age of one hundred and one years and over, dying but a few months ago. The following, written by him in his ninety-seventh year, will be read with interest :

" I was born in Wilkes County, N. C., near the Yadkin River, September 26, 1781. My grandfather, John Parks, moved from Virginia to this place before the Revolutionary war, but how long before I do not know. My grandfather was of Irish descent, and my grandmother of Dutch. They raised to be men and women fourteen children; seven boys and seven girls.

" My father, George, was raised and married in the same settlement. My mother's maiden name was Milly Davis. They had six children; all lived to have families except one. I lived in that neighborhood until I was fifteen years old, when my father, with his family, moved to Burke County, N. ©. I lived with my father until I was about twenty-five years of age, when I married Nancy Moore on the 30th of November, 1806. We settled and lived in Burke County for several years. We had ten children, all of whom lived to be men and women except two. Nancy, my wife, died June 26, 1828, and I married Frances Kendrick August 27, 1880. By her I had one son, James.

'« Now, for some of the incidents of my early life. Commence ninety years ago, just after the close of the Revolutionary war. J remember grandfather had a roan horse. He went for his horse one morning, to find that he had been stolen. Great lamentions followed, but a few mornings afterward the old horse stood at the gate well-rigged out with new saddle and bridle - all complete.

" When grandfather's property was sold, after his death, a family of his slaves were exposed to sale, which, by his will, were not to be sold out of the family. That was humane in those days. Father bought a boy named Moses, and he and I were raised together. The people of those days were thrown upon their own resources. No labor-saving machinery. All came out of the ground - both eating and wearing. The men would raise cotton and flax; the women would card, spin and weave clothing for themselves and children. They had dresses of different colors and stripes. They got their colors from indigo of their.

own raising, copperas and various kinds of blossoms. 'The first calico dress I ever saw father bought for my sister, then about sixteen years old. He gave a three-year-old steer for six yards, which completed the dress. I suppose if the ladies nowadays were confined to six yards for a dress, they would think it rather tight.

" Education was quite limited. Our schoolhouse was made of round logs, with a dirt floor. Split logs with legs put in served for seats. Large cracks were left to admit the light. Our books consisted of, first, a primer, then Dike's spelling book, then Dilworth's, then Webster's first edition, completed one list of spelling books. Our first reader was called a Psalter, some old English concern, then the Testament and Bible. These cbmpleted our reading books. No grammar, geography nor history' was in use that I ever heard of till my education was completed. I learned to cipher as far as the rule of three, and some in fractions ; could write a tolerable hand, and was considered a fair scholar for those days. Our schoolhouse was also used for a church. When young people walked to meeting together, the girls would tie their shoes and stockings in their handkerchief, and carry them on. their arm until within sight of the church, when they would put them on, and so march up in style. (We boys were spared that trouble, from the fact we had none). The girls' dress in winter was of woolen goods called linsey; in summer, cotton stripe. Boys' dress for winter was buckskin breeches and shoes - no boots. The custom was for almost every farmer to tan his own leather, and make shoes for himself and family. Our diet was hog and hominy for breakfast, vegetables for dinner, and a hearth full of roasted sweet potatoes for sup. Pal Sugar and coffee for only special occasions. Fruit abundant.

each brandy and honey tolerably plenty; whisky scarce. There were very few drunkards. No doctors or lawyers. I never saw either, that I know of, until I was fifteen years old.

" Soon after the war of 1812, when things had somewhat settled, my father and family with enough others to make a right smart colony, concluded to emigrate to some new country.

"The Territory of Indiana was the place chosen, and we landed in Lawrence County, on the East Fork of White River, October, 1815. The land was not yet in market, but was surveyed off ready to be sold. We chose our lots, and settled on them, built our cabins, and cleared a considerable amount of land. As the sale was to come off the next season at Jeffersonville, a dozen or more of us went down. The land was to be sold to the highest bidder. When the sale took place, a man by the name of Bulslitt, had a longer pole than ours, and 'knocked the persimmons,' sweeping the entire settlement. Not tke first man saved his land or improvements. So we marched home, feeling as if we had lost a friend. I had about eight acres cleared, surrounded by a good fence. The part of the territory where we now live did not come into market until the next season, so we concluded to make another trial. So we moved and again selected our lots.* The next sale took place at Vincennes in October, 1816. By this time we became somewhat acquainted with fever and ague. I was the only one able to attend the sale, and I took the chills while there. I purchased for nearly the entire colony - about a dozen

Jota in all. After the sale, we went that winter and built cabins on our lots, and cleared some ground. I got in about six acres of fine corn, which was our sole dependence for the year. But Jo! in October there came a frost, which bit the last ear (so with the whole settlement)! Then we were in a fix! We had no mills to grind our corn, so we were compelled to pound it into meal. There was one hand mill in the settlement. But the corn wag so soft it would neither beat nor grind, until it was kilndried. I made a scaffold up in the chimney and dried mine; then I had my choice, to go a mile to the hand mill, or to pound it. Many a time I have worked hard all day, and at night taken one-half bushel of corn to the hand mill and ground it.

" I had myself, wife and five children to feed. That would be thought pretty hard these times. Nevertheless, we never suffered from hunger. I was considered a good shot. In a few hours I could bring in venison or turkey. We also had plenty of milk and butter. So we passed through the season safely. When we first moved here, Delaware and Pottawatomie Indians were plentiful. They were quite friendly, and would often come with their squaws and papooses to stay all night with us. They had a trading house within a half mile of where I now live. In early days we had grand times at log rollings. When we got our ground ready for rolling, we would invite our neighbors to the frolic. Choosing our captains, they would in turn choose their hands, and at it we would go. If ever you saw logs come together, it was about that time. Before we commenced work we had to take a little of the 'crittet ! *- It.is not worth while to say we did not feel what we drank, for that was what we drank it for! We had none who might be called drunkards, but such a gathering nowadays might all be counted as drunkards. Such was the custom of the country at that time. Oh, what a thing custom is when rightly considered, whether good or bad.

'The year after we moved to the Territory, delegates were elected for the purpose of forming a State constitution. Counties were then laid off and established. Before Monroe County was organized, an election was ordered to choose three Commissioners, a Clerk and a Sheriff. B. Woodward, Michael Buskirk and myself were elected Commissioners. We proceeded to organize the county. We purchased a half section of land, where the court house now stands. We laid off the public square, and had a court house and jail built thereon. Lots were surveyed and sold, bringing a considerable revenue. We were now ready to hold court, and the county machinery ready for action. It now became necessary to have a School Commissioner. I offered my services and was elected.

" In order to put the school in operation, it became my duty to sell all the sixteenth sections to the highest bidder. By this means, a large fund was raised, and the school placed upon a firm basis (I have to make long strides on account of my records being burned up). In the year 1832, I offered for the Legislature (Lower House), and was elected. I served my time at $2 per day, and boarded myself. Finding that there was not much money in such warfare, and perhaps less credit, I would not offer any more. Some years afterward, I was again elected School Commissioner for the county. At the expiration of my term of office, I retired from public life. (I never was beaten for any office I offered for.)

"The first President I ever voted for was Thomas Jefferson for his second term of office. I have been a straightforward Democrat ever since - voted for all the candidates for office except Greeley. I thought the Democrats got off the track there, and I would not follow them. I have lived on the farm where I now live sixty-two years. I have been the ancestor of eleven children, fifty-six grandchildren, eighty great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren, thus being, at this time, the representative of five generations.

" I joined the Baptist Church in North Carolina about the year of 1807. I was one of the charter members of Old Vernal Church, the first congregation organized in this county, Monroe, and was Deacon of the church for quite a number of years.

"I have endeavored to live peaceably with all men, and to live in accordance with the will of my heavenly Master, to the best of my knowledge. I have fought the good fight, have almost run my race, and am now patiently waiting for the good Lord to call me home, where there is a heavenly mansion prepared for me not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. JAMES PARKS."

George Sharp, the father of Jonathan Sharp, was probably the most experienced bear hunter ever a resident of Monroe County. He had lived before coming to the county in a wild section of the South, and during a surveying expedition of considerable magnitude, had been one of four or five scouts and hunters who supplied all the wild meat required by the members of the expedition. He averaged a bear a day for months, besides scores of buffaloes, deer, turkeys, etc. He killed hundreds of bears' in his time, and had many narrow escapes from death, but his incredible strength, coolness, skill, and knowledge of the animals, always brought him through without serious injury. He went armed with a huge butcher knife, the blade of which was one foot in length, and carried a rifle, with ball heavy enough to bring down the largest game. His son, Johnston Sharp, yet has his knife, which is truly a formidable weapon, and is greatly prized as a keepsake. It was used in killing one of the few bears taken in Richland Township. In about 1819, during the early winter, and just after a light fall of snow, some man in the settlement, in going through the woods, saw a large and curiously shaped track, and could not account for the same. Old man Sharp was called on to decide, and pronounced it the track of a large bear. The trail was immediately followed and led to a large hollow sycamore which stood a short distance north of Ellettsville. All the men of the settlement gathered around to participate in the killing, but were prohibited from using guns for fear, in the excitement, of shooting some person. The tree was cut down. While this was heing done, Mr. Sharp, the only one experienced in the habits of bears, was plied with all manner of questions, such as " Which way will it run?'' ** Where shall I stand?" etc., and answered all in a manner to keep his neighbors on the " ragged edge," and make them feel their decided inferiority on questions of bear-hunting. The huge tree came down with a crash, split open, and, to the astonishment of all, revealed three bears - one large one and two cubs three-fourths grown. The dogs to the number of about a dozen immediately set upon the bears, which, severely stunned by the fall, could at first offer only partial resistance, and were readily dispatched with clubs and cautious rifle shots before they had recovered their usual strength. One of the cubs caught a dog owned by Mr. Sharp, and was crushing the life out of it, when the irate owner, armed with the big butcher knife above mentioned, ran up and reaching over the bear, struck it to the heart from the opposite side. The yelping canine was instantly released and in a few moments the bear was dead. Several present could not understand.why Mr. Sharp had reached over the bear and struck it from the opposite side from which he was standing. He explained that bears when struck with a knife always snapped at and struck with their paws at the immediate object hurting - in this case the knife - regardless of who or what was on the other side, and he cited them to the fact that the bear when struck had bitten savagely at the knife, striking also with its paws, and had he been on that side would, no doubt, have suffered injury. He had 'been in too many hand-to-hand (so to speak) conflicts with these animals not to know how to use the knife. The three bears were taken and dressed, and parceled out among the settlers, all of whom enjoyed eating a large piece of juicy bearsteak, which, it is said, tastes much like pork, and can be fried in its own fat. Several other bears were killed in the township very early, an account of which cannot be given. Wolves were very troublesome, and were caught with steel traps. Panthers were occasionally found. A small dog, belonging to Mr. Milligan, treed a large one early one evening and kept it there all night, strange as it may seem. arly the next morning, Mr. Milligan, who had heard the continued barking, went out with his rifle and shot the panther dead from its perch in the tree. It was a very large specimen of its species, measuring, it is said, nearly twelve feet 'from tip to tip.

One morning, very early, James Parks, Sr., was aroused from sleep before the usual time by @ strange noise on the door step, and getting up as quietly as possible, he walked to the window, which commanded a view of the door step, and looked out and saw with astonishment and some alarm a large black bear lying there asleep. The settler got his rifle, and taking cautious.aim at a vital place of the animal, pulled the trigger. The sharp report was followed by the death growls of bruin, and in a few moments all was still; the bear was dead. The family ate bear steak for breakfast. The Mayfield boys - Nicholas and Elzy - in going from school, saw a dark object cross the path a short distance in front of them, and at first supposed it to be a raven. Going farther on, they were alarmed to see a large bear; and taking to their heels, made for home at the top of their speed, and there told what they had seen. A party of men started out, but did not succeed in coming up to his bearship.

William Poe owned a hand mill as early as 1822 or 1823, which supplied the neighbors with cracked corn. The meal from this mill and from the old Parks Mill was coarse, and was at first sifted until all the finer had been separated out, when the remainder was used for half-hominy. John Fullen operated a horse mill later, and also made a limited quantity of whisky from a small copper still. The Mayfields, in Richland, and Allison, in Van Buren, took the earliest stand against the consumption of ardent spirits, and did much to stop their use at log roll- ings. Jack Storm, one time in a freshet, endeavored to cross the principal creek in Richland Township, but after getting a severe wetting, and failing ingloriously in getting across, he was forced to give up. From this circumstance the creek is said to have taken its name - '' Jack's Defeat." William Rawlins and Mary Sharp were married in 1818; this was the first in the township. David P. Edmundson was born in the township during the summer of 1817, his birth being the first; Lucinda Puett was the second.

The settlement of the township was quite slow after the rush was over, and only took place as the country gradually grew from its backwoods condition. In 1841, the tax-payers were as follows :

Poll-Tax Payers Of 1841 Richland, Or Elletsville

This town did not have as early an origin as several others in the county. Edward Ellett kept tavern there for several years before it was considered a village. He also conducted a blacksmith shop that was well patronized. He started a small, old-fashioned, up-and-down saw mill early, and it is said that he later put in one apartment of the same building a set of rude stones, and for a number of years ground corn, and probably wheat. The first grist mill in this neighborhood, and probably one of the very first, if not the first in the county, was the rude hand mill of George Parks, which was brought to the township in 1817.. It was patronized' by all the neighbors until the Mt. Tabor grist mill was built by old man Burton, in about 1820. This old hand mill of George Parks' is yet in existence - in the possession of Johnson Sharp, who operates it on Old Settlers' Day, for the inspection of the curious and the gratification of the early settlers. Old man Kirkham, in the northeastern corner of the township, started a horse mill about 1820, which was quite well patronized for several yéars. In the month of February, 1887, Reuben Tompkins employed John Sedwick, County Surveyor, and laid out fourteen lots on Section 9, and named the village thus founded Richland. During the same year, an effort was made secure a post office there, the name, Richland, being selected; but as there was another post office in the State of that name, it was changed to Ellettsville, in honor of Edward Ellett. In the spring of 1838, Alonzo Beman laid out an addition of seventeen lots, and at this time the name of the village became Ellettsville, the same as the post office. Mr. Beman at this time opened the first store, his stock consisting of a general assortment, worth about $1,000. Within a short time he was joined by F. T. Butler, who became his partner, and who was then in business at Mt. Tabor, packing pork and manufacturing hats to a considerable extent. In 1839, Jefferson Wampler opened a liquor store in the little village; and about the same time, or perhaps late in 1838, Ellett & Barnes started a good store of general merchandise.

In 1840, there were then two stores, one liquor shop, one blacksmith shop, one grist mill, one saw mill, a post office and about five families. James Whitesell started a store in 1841, continuing until about 1845. Jobnson Stites sold liquor in 1840; Isaac Wampler sold liquor in 1841. A Mr. Manville was in business about 1846. H. R. Seall opened a good general store in about 1848, and continued nine or ten years. S. B. & O. A. Harris started with about $1,000 worth of goods in 1848, and in one form or another have continued until the present, if their sons who succeeded them are included. Emanuel F. Faulkner opened a store in about 184yY. Parks & Coffey started soon afterward, as did also John H. Reeves, Harris & Dean, Dowell & Moore. The McCallas. of Bloomington, had a branch store in Ellettsville. Dowell & Stearns were in business in the fifties; G. B. Moore the same, and is yet in business, having accumulated a fortune. R. W. Akin & Co. opened with a general store in 1856. J. M. Campbell started up about the beginning of the war, and F. E. Worley began during the war. W. H. Jackson opened a store about the close of the war, and still continues to make a living over the counter. Parks & Puett were in business early in the village. 'The Perry Brothers came to the village twenty or twenty-five years ago, and have amassed comfortable fortunes. They are now engaged extensively in the stone business. Among the business ventures at the village have been the saw mill of Sanders & Knighton, many years ago; Houston's steam saw mill, started in the fifties, and transferred to Perry & Sedwick, was afterward burned. Late in the fifties, David Allen built and equipped a grist mill at a total cost of about $13,000. It was an excellent mill. After a few years, it was sold to Jesse Draper, and ten or twelve years later to W. it. Jackson, upon whose hands it burned down last winter (1882-83). S. B. Harris built a grist mill about 1870, at a cost of $9,000, and after four or five years added a set of machinery for carding wool. Both are yet in operation. The woolen factory cost $3,000. It is said that John Whisenand carded wool at the village as early as 1842, his motor being the tread-wheel. It ceased running about 1850. Early in the fifties, Gilbert May started a good cabinet shop. Shook & Faulkner began manufacturing carriages about eight years ago, and are still engaged in the same pursuit. F. E. Worley opened a private bank in the village about twelve years ago, with a capital of from $40,000 to $60,000. He still continues doing a general banking business, and has the confidence of the community. He owns one of the finest residences in Monroe County. George Fletcher started a planing mill five or six years ago. He is an extensive contractor and builder. About five years ago, a German from Indianapolis erected a spoke factory, which is now owned by Sedwick & Grant, and is not in operation. William Walls is now conducting a good wagon shop. Judson Sanders started a steam saw mill in 1888. These are the more important business industries. In 1850, the population of the village was about 60; in 1860, about 250; in 1870, about 450; in 1880, 585, and in 1883 about 625.

Incorporation

In 1866, the project of incorporating the village was talked of, but met stubborn opposition from the moneyed element. In June, 1866, a petition was presented to the County Board praying that the village might hold an election, and that in the event of a majority of votes in favor of incorporation, the village might be declared the incorporated town of Elletsville. The plan proposed comprised two hundred and two acres, and the petition was signed by the following residents: W. H.

Jackson, James W. Coffey, Charles G. May, Thomas Manpin, Nehemiah Sumner, Noel Edwards, W. J. Jackson, Elisha Allen, W. ©. R. Mc- Neeley, Henry E. Akin, William Galloway, Samuel Galloway, Joseph B. Gray, Samuel Given, James S. Whitesill, R. J. Mills, G. W. Fletcher, R. C. Harris, W. H. Corneling, E. E. Moberly, H. M. Shook, G. K. Berry, E. H. Wood, F. M. Falkner, N. E. Miller, John Cook, H. R. Seall, J. G. Smith, John Dearmon, H. F. Perry, Theodore Sedwick, H. A. Edwards. J. H. Shook, A. Albertson, James S. Sharp, T. J. Sharp, J. V. Rawlins, R. L. Rawlins, S. F. Edwards, E. E. McNeeley, G. W. Houston, A. W. Gray, G. V. Lane, John Stevenson, Lafayette Truett, W. G. Jamison, W. P. Davis, Josbrook, J. E. Sedwick, S. B. Harris, J. L. Nesbit, H. S. Hughes, Allen Mills, T. J. Costin, J. M. Harris and Daniel Manpin. The population of the village by the census taken at this time was 388. The County Board ordered an election held, which was done the 16th day of June, 1866, a majority of votes being polled for the incorportion. In September, 1866, the County Board declared Ellettsville to be duly incorporated. Officers were elected, but within a year or two the interest died out and remained dormant so that elections were abandoned for several years, when the municipal government was revived and has continued to work until the present. The present officers are G. W. Houston, William Miller and Stevenson, Trustees; James Robinson, Treasurer; John Edmundson, Clerk ;

Present Business Industries

The first school in the township was taught during the winter of 1822-23, in a log cabin which stood about where the residence of William Draper now stands. The building was of round logs, had a huge fireplace that could be induced to take in logs six feet long and two feet or more in diameter, and had a log left out on the south side about breast high over which greased paper was fastened to serve the purpose of windows. William Rawlins, son of Roderick Rawlins, the first County Treasurer, was the first teacher. The term was three months long, and the children of James Parks, Benjamin Parks, Lewis Noel, Coleman

Puett, Samuel Ellett, Joseph Puett, Joseph Reeves, George Sharp, George Parks, William Milligan, two miles away, and William Edmundson, went to young Mr. Rawlins to learn how to read, write and cipher. This house was used for school purposes about five years, and was then displaced by a hewed-log structure erected near the cemetery, and used until the township was divided into districts in the forties. Late in the thirties. Porter Edmundson erected a building which he used for a schoolhouse for a number of years, himself doing the teaching. This was wholly a private school supported by subscription, or tuition, and was æ good one for that early day. Another early school was the one taught in the southern part of the township in a log cabin on the Beujamin Reeves farm in the winter of 1823-24, William Matlock owned the farm then, and his son, Jefferson Matlock, was the teacher. He had as high as twenty scholars, and taught such a good school that it was continued every winter after that in the same neighborhood. In 1836, there were four schoolhouses in the township, besides two or three private schools. By 1846, the number had increased to seven, and in 1856 to eight, and by this time several frame houses could be seen where erst the log house with greased paper windows, puncheon floors, doors, seats and desks were to be seen. The following was the condition of schools and houses

TEACHERS OF 1880-81. Nard Sascthnent. Kind and Size of Houses. Mary Moberly kee eee ES 7 20 Frame, 22x28 feet. He MP hdmundsont..ccccescccctsesecrccesectrenseces 6 48 Frame, 24x30 feet. JS HBS Edmundson siseses ccedes ccncteeeees 4 28 Frame, 20x24 feet. Nellie Wingfield .......... OPE SEEPAR A cere ree 5 44 Frame, 24x26 feet. J. Wo Bra Neee enne eee aeaea eana AEE EAE PAA ESE 3 24 Frame, 22x28 feet. Je VA ROStere:cccccetssneseccovcctenccesccevasteee crete 2 36 Brick, 34x36 feet. M ABA Dicksoncids.cscceccuccetseeseertcoteeestecnees 1 21 Brick, 22x26 feet.

Various schoolhouses were used in Ellettsville prior to about 1855, at which time a large frame house with two rooms was erected, and used until the present brick structure was constructed about twelve years ago. Maj. H. F. Perry was one of the first teachers in the old frame house. The present two-storied brick cost about $7,000, was built by the township, and is occupied by five teachers, who cannot properly instruct all the town children, and a small brick building near it is also used.

The old Vernal Baptist Church was one of the very first, if not the first, organized in Monroe Connty. Meetings were held during the winter of 1817-18, but probably no organization was effected until several years later. Among the first members were the families of James Parks, Benjamin Parks, George Parks, Lewis Noel, Leroy Mayfield, John Sanders, the Coffeys, Mr. Shreeves, the Martins, Frank Hall, and others. A rude log church was built in the Sanders neighborhood, in about 1826, and was used until about 1838, when a frame church, built further north and within about three-fourths of a mile of Ellettsville, took its place. The old log house was so open that in cold weather meetings were held in the residences of the members - principally in that of James Parks, who for many years was Deacon of the church and its most prominent member. Rev. James Chambers was the first minister, but within two or three years he was succeeded by Rev. Leroy Mayfield, who was pastor over thirty years. The Bethany Baptist was organized quite early, some of the early members being the families of John Wilburn, William Sparks, Abe May, Henry Flood, Wiliam H. Treadway and Henry Sanders. Another famous early church was the Cumberland Presbyterian, of Richland Township. Citizens of Bloomington of this faith often went out to attend this church. It was organized before 1830, and among the members were the Sharps, Constables, Figgs, Johnsons, Halls, Clays. The church was built on Section 4, and was known as the Pleasant Hill Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Thomas J. Sharp furnished the land on Section 4. Another early class was the Christian Church, organized in the thirties, among the early members being the families of Pleasant York, Andrew Reeves, James Everman, Wesley Acuff, James Hall, J. H. Houston, and others. The Church was called North Liberty Church of Christ. The old Methodist Church in Richland was organized in the twenties. It was called Wesley Chapel, and among the early members were the Kerbys, the Smiths, the Hopewells, the Sedwicks, the Reeveses, the Knightons, the Stinesons, the Moots, the Sharps, and others. Others were organized early and later. The Presbyterians, Methodists, Christians and Baptists, remnants of the old organizations, have churches in Ellettsville and in the township.

JAMES A. BAKER, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Clarke County, Ind., August 20, 1824, and is the eldest of the family of nine children of Jesse and Sarah (Kobertson) Baker, natives respectively of South Carolina and Virginia. Jesse Baker was orphaned when seven years old, and went to live with an uncle, with whom, in 1815, he came to and settled in Clarke County, there married, farmed on leased land until 1831, when he purchased land, and remained thereon until 1848, at which time he purchased a saw and grist mill near Utica, managed the same until 1854, and afterward farmed until his death in 1876, aged seventy-eight years, his wife having preceded him in 1866. He was a Democrat, and a member of the Christian Church. James A. Baker worked for his father and attended school, but obtained the major part of his education by after-study. In 1846, he enlisted in Company I, Third Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry; recruited for the war against Mexico, in which he served one year, and took part at Buena Vista. After returning, he engaged in milling with his father, and in 1854 purchased land, farmed until 1857, after which he bought land near Utica, and August, 1865, located at his present home, comprising 225 acres of good grass and farm land. Mr. Baker is a hard-working man, and for thirty years combined his trade of carpentering with farming and stock dealing. January 28, 1851, he married Margaret A. Littell, with an issue of six children - Jesse T., Reuben A. (deceased), Sarah A., Charles E., Mary Luella and William F. (deceased). Mr. and Mrs. Baker are members of the Church of Christ. ,

CHARLES A. BUNGER, farmer, is the son of Jacob and Mary (Camper) Bunger, both natives of Virginia, and respectively of German and English extraction. Jacob Bunger removed with his family to this county in an early day, and located in Van Buren Township, where he now lives, having been farmer, stage-driver and miller. He has been the father of eight children, four of whom are living- - Charles, Sarah, Matilda and Willie. Charles was born in Greenbrier County, W. Va., September 20, 1845, and was reared to the vocation of a farmer. In early manhood, he was his father's only support, and was industrious and energetic. February 23, 1870, he married Miss Elizabeth B., daughter of William Kirby, a pioneer of this township. Shortly after his marriage, Mr. Bunger moved to where he now lives, which is an improved farm of 102 acres, on which he has built good buildings and made other improvements toward a commodious home. Mr. Bunger is a Republican, a Patron of Husbandry, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

G. W. BURKS is the eldest son of Floyd and Helen (Thompson) Burks, the former a native of Kentucky, the latter of Indiana, and respectively of Irish-English and German descent. Floyd Burks was a housocarpenter and farmer, who came to this county in early manhood, married and reared a family of ten children. The larger portion of his life was spent in Greene County, and he there redeemed from nature's wilds a home and farm, in doing which he experienced the trials of a pioneer. Ho was a notorious hunter, a Republican and a member of the Church of Christ. He died June 10, 1878, aged sixty-three years. G. W. Burks was burn November 16, 1836, and was reared a farmer, and from the common schools obtained a fair education. October 18, 1855, he married Miss Matilda H. Mayfield, of this county, a union cemented by the birth of seven children, five of whom are living - Lauretta, Joseph W., Ulyssus L., Walter W. and Isaac R. Mr. Burks, soon after this event, commenced farming on the home place, and in 1857 located where he now is - a farm of much value and with many improvements, containing an area of fifty-seven acres. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and a Republican in politics. Mr. Burks is a member of the Christian and Mrs. Burks of the Baptist Church.

HON. DAVID BYERS, retired farmer, is a son of David and Elizabeth Byers, natives of Pennsylvania and North Carolina. David Byers, Sr., located in Mason County, Ky.. having come down the Ohio River on a flat-boat about 1783. He married Miss Rachel Nesbit, and was father of five children. After her death in 1803, he married Mrs. Elizabeth (Ray) Turner. with an issue of three sons, and died in 1817, aged fiftynine years. He was a superior man, both in mind and body. After his decease, Mrs. Byers came with her family to this county in 1827, and some time lived, and finally died, with our subject, in 1852, aged eighty-three years. David Byers, Jr., was born June 20, 1806, in Nicholas County, Ky., where he was trained to farming; he was studious and ambitious, and became a teacher after coming to this county, and as such a pioneer. In 1835, he located where he now resides, and created a home and farm from the wilds of nature. January 30, 1831, he married Miss Rachel Sanders, and to this union were bestowed nine children, only two of whom survived - Lafayette and Thomas, Jr.; Mrs. Byers died June 21, 1874. Mr. Byers' second son, James K. P., was a soldier of the Fiftieth Indiana Regiment, and died in 1867. Mr. Byers was a Democrat until the Kansas troubles, when he became a Republican. He was Representative to the Legislature in 1840-41, and in 1844 - 45, having led the " Seminary'' and "State University Re-organization " bills. He served as Justice of the Peace eight years, and as County Commissioner from 1830 to 1840 - the only one living that served under the old law. Since 1842, he bas been an active worker in the Church of Christ.

Larayerre Byers was born in this township January, 30, 1839, was reared a farmer and attended the common schools. He taught one term of school, and then embraced farming, now owning 146 acres, which ho exchanged for 100 in Boone County, on which he located in 1880. October, 1869, he married Elvira L. McCoy, and he has six children, five living - Mary, John, Orange, Carl and Wilford. Mr. B. is a Republican, and he and wife belong to the Church of Christ.

Tuomas J. Byers was born where he now lives November 7, 1848, a son of the above. Ho was reared a farmer and acted as a teacher for years, in this State, Illinois and Lowa, but he has of late given attention to farming. February 14, 1875, he married Sarah A. Stanger, with an issue of four children, three living - Norah F., Georgo H. and Homer C. He and wife belong to the Christian Church.

JOHN D. COFFEY, retired farmer. is a son of James and Hannah (Alloway) Coffey, natives of North Carolina, and respectively of Irish and English extraction. John D. was also born in North Carolina July

8, 1821, whence, when he was eleven years old, his parents removed to this county and purchased a timbered tract near, Ellettsville, in the clearing of which our subject took a full part, and remained with his parents until he was twenty-three years old, when he married his first wife, Mary A. Whisnand, and who died in 1846, leaving one son - James W. His second marriage took place December, 1848, the bride being Miss Mary A. Mayfield, who died May 2, 1873, leaving two sons - William R. and Anderson T. His third marriage was with Miss Mary J. Ridge. who died May 18, 1883. After his first marriage he leased twelve acres, and after his second marriage he purchased a small farm, where he resided until 1855, and two years later located near Ellettsville, improved land and lived until 1869, at which time he purchased part of his father's farm. In addition to a good farm, he has some village property, and has a comfortable living. Mr. Coffey is a member of the Masonic order and of the Baptist Church.

JOHN S. CONSTABLE, stock-raiser and farmer, was born in Burke County, N. C., June 1, 1815, and is the eldest son of Peter and Susanna (Hilman) Constable, both natives of North Carolina, and respectively of Scotch-Irish and German descent. Both grandfathers of our subject were Revolutionary soldiers. His father, Peter Constable, was a soldier of the war of 1812. He was a farmer, and in 1827 was killed by lightning while at work. In 1832, the family emigrated to Indiana, settled near Ellettsville and rented a farm, in the government of which John S. Constable took active part and remained at home until he was twentytwo, when he began to work for himself, making rails at 50 cents per day. February 7, 1836, he married to Miss Margaret James, of this county, born March 1, 1819. Six children were the result of this marriage - Mary, Sarah, James (of the Thirty-eighth Regiment, who died of fever in Louisville, February, 1863), William H , Margaret and Carrie Bell. In 1838, Mr. Constable commenced farming on rented land, and on shares until 1868, when he was able to purchase 110 acres, of which seventy acres are under cultivation. Mr. and Mrs. Constable are members of the Presbyterian Church.

W. C. DRAPER, hardware and furniture dealer, was born May 16, 1850, and is a son of Jesse and Eliza (Conduitt) Draper, natives respectively of North Carolina and Kentucky,and of English and French descent. He attended school regularly during boyhood, and graduated in the classical course when seventeen years old - the youngest alumnus of the State University. He located at Martinsville, and studied law for one year, which he abandoned afterward, and visited California, where he worked as a carpenter. On his return, he associated himself with the ''National Temperance Alliance" at. Indianapolis, and after the death of his father- - - May 28, 1872 - came home to look up his father's estate, and then engaged in the lumber trade for a time. November 21, 1873, hé married Miss Mary, daughter of L. W. Sanders, a union which has been cemented by four children - Clarence, Admilla, Beulah and Blaine. In January, 1882, he engaged in his present business, in which he has been very successful. Mr. Draper is a member of the I. O. O. F., and a licensed local minister of the Baptist denomination, of which his wife is a member. He isan influential and respected citizen.

GEORGE W. FAULKNER is a son of Emanuel F. and Rebecca (Coffey) Faulkner, natives respectively of North Carolina and Tennessee. He was born in this county May 23, 1832, whither his parents removed in 1824. Being left motherJess in childhood, and having to labor with his father, he received but scant instruction in learning, and when of age worked as an engineer. In September, 1861, he enlisted in Company G, Thirty-eighth Indiana Volunteers, which formed a part of the Cumberland division, and was promoted by steps until he became Captain of said company in 1865, and left the service July 25 of that year, after participating in the great battles of the campaign. On coming to his home, he found employment in erecting various mills, and is an expert in matters of machinery. September 15, 1858, he married Miss.Anna, daughter of Martin and Mary (Rice) Cornman, by which union they were favored with one son - -Edward E. Mr. Faulkner is an uncompromising Republican, a member of the honorable order of Freemasonry, and an esteemed citizen. Mrs. Faulkner isa member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

JAMES W. FIGG, farmer, is a native of Shelby County, Ky., was born March 19, 1835, and is one of the twelve in family born to Thomas and Rebecca Figg, natives respectively of Kentucky and Virginia, and of German and English extraction. James Figg was reared a farmer's boy, and received some education from the subscription schools. At the age of sixteen, he removed with his parents to Ellettsville, and when of age began farming in the neighborhood, and in February, 1864, located where he now resides, his farm containing 180 acres- - a valuable property and comfortable home. December 23, 1861, he married Mrs. Naomi (Williams) Reynolds. Six children succeeded to this union - Mary I., Lilla B., Ella J., Jennie M., Sarah and Norah. Mr. Figg is a liberal Democrat and a public-spirited citizen. He has made his own way unaided to comfort and independence, and he and his wife are members of the Baptist Church.

GEORGE W. FLETCHER is a son of William and Mary (Dean) Fletcher, natives of Maryland and of English descent, who early moved to. Owen County, and, in 1854, to Decatur County, Ill., where Mrs. Fletcher died, whereupon Mr. Fletcher returned to Owen County, and died in 1868, aged seventy-three years, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Our subject was born in Ripley County, Ind., January 8, 1834, was reared a farmer, and assisted his father until he was seventeen, at which period he began working for himself by splitting rails. In 1854, he commenced as a carpenter, and since he moved to Ellettsville, in 1859, has been engaged in contracting and building. In 1872, he built a planing mill, which he has since operated successfully. In 1861, he enlisted in the militia during the Morgan raid. January,2, 1855, he married Miss Melvina Knapp, who died in 1875, leaving two sons - Kdwin and Otis L. He wedded his second wife, Miss Lizzie Stimson, November 20, 1876. Mr. Fletcher is' an Odd Fellow, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Rosert T. Stimson (deceased) was born November 29, 1823, and was reared in North' Carolina, whither his parents moved after his birth. October 2, 1844, he married Nancy C. Johnson, and one week thereafter, they left for Indiana, located in Owen County, and there remained until 1853, when they settled near Ellettsville, and engaged in farming; they subsequently moved into the town, where Mr. Stimson died February 11, 1882, aged fifty-nine years. He was a worthy citizen, a Republican, a member of the Methodist Episcopa) Church, and left two daughters - Sarah E. and Lizzie. Mrs. Stimson is yet living.

THOMAS N. FOSTER, stock-raiser and farmer, is the second son of James and Rachel (Nesbit) Foster, natives of Kentucky, the former of Trish, the latter of Scotch extraction. Grandfather Nesbit, after the Revolutionary war, came down the Ohio to Maysville, on a flat-boat, and settled about thirty miler inland. James Foster was a farmer, who in 1835 located on Clear Creek, and in 1838 came to this township, where his son Thomas now resides. He was afterward killed instantly while at work; his wife survived him until 1876, and made her home with our subject. Thomas N. Voster was born in Nicholas County, Ky., April 29, 1820, and was there reared until he was fiffeen years old, when he came with his parents to this county, and here has continued to reside. After his father's decease, he took charge of the farm, and madea home for his mother. He afterward purchased the home farm, which he has continuously improved and cultivated. It comprises 172 acres, contains good house, good barns, and is profitably stocked. January 29, 1843, he married Miss Elizabeth Oram of this county. Four children graced this union - Mary L., Florence R., John T. and Dowe B. Mr. Foster is a liberal-spirited man, an esteemed citizen, and, as well as Mrs. Foster, a member of the Christian Church.

C. O. FREEMAN, stock-raiser and farmér, was born January 15, 1829, and is the eldest living child of James and Margaret (Collier) Freeman, natives of North Carolina, the former of English, the latter of English and German extraction. James freeman emigrated to Owen County, Ind., in 1834. and from the native soil made a farm and a home. One year preceding his death, which occurred in 1871, at the age of sixtyseven, he went to reside with a daughter. Mrs. Freeman died September, 1879, aged seventy-two years. Mr. Freeman was a Democrat, and he and wife raised nine out of twelve children. Our subject was only five years of age when his parents moved to Owen County, at which place he passed his boyhood, and acquired the business of farming from his father. He had some advantages of education, and remained within the parental walls until he was a legal man, after which time he rented land and began to do for himself. He afterward moved to Owen County, then to this county again, and purchased his present home in 1870, now comprising upward of 200 acres, well improved, stocked, and constituting one of the township's best farms, the fruit wholly of his thrift and management. August 25, 1850, he married Miss Rachel H., daughter of John Thompson, and a native of this county. To this union have been bestowed seven children, of which number four are living - Johu M., James F., Cyrus J. and Marv A. Mr. Freeman is a liberal, conscientious man, politically a Democrat, and he and wife are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. ,

JAMES COLEMAN FREEMAN, farmer and stock-raiser, is a native of North Carolina, was born July 26. 1830, and is the third of the family of James and Margaret Freeman, who moved to Owen County, Ind., whence our subject, after a few years, removed to Monroe County, and worked at farming, when but ten years of age. November 4, 1848, he married Miss Sailie Acuff, a native of Tennessee, and to this union were bestowed nine children, of which number five are living - Louisa A., Joseph M., Martba E., Rebecca D. and Rosaline. Mr. Freeman commenced life in earnest by renting land, which he continued to cultivate for three years, when he purchased a small farm, and afterward sold the samo, with a gain of $150. He then removed to Owen County, and pur- chased 900 acres, lived five years thereon, and exchanged this for a portion of his present home, now aggregating 255 acres, all well improved, and having much under good cultivation. Mr. Freeman is identified with the Democratic party, and he and wife are worthy members of the Baptist Church.

BENJAMIN HALL is a native of Richland Township, Monroe Co., Ind.; was born October 1, 1826; is the son of F. V. and Polly (Noel) Hall; in a family of twelve children he is the seventh, and is of Irish German origin. The father of our subject was born in Kentucky, and his mother was of Virginia birth. His paternal grandfather was Francis Hall, a native of Scotland, who came to America prior tothe Revolution. About the year 1820, his father came to Monroe County, and settled in Richland Township, where he died in 1854. Mr. Hall remained at home and worked for his father on the farm until his twenty-eighth year. In 1854, Mr. Hall was married to Miss Nancy Cox, a native of Owen County, Ind. By this lady he became the father of six children - Martha Allie A., Biddy P., Aurilla P., Morton M. and Edith E. Mrs. Hall died August 24, 1883, a consistent member of the Primitive Baptist Church. Mr. Hall settled on his farm in Richland Township in 1855. In the fall of 1882, he removed to Bloomington to educate his children. Politically, he is a Republican, and a member of the Primitive Baptist Church. He is an honorable man, and a highly respected citizen. By occupation, his life has been that of a farmer, and in which he has been successful. He has a well-improved farm in Richland Township.

JESSE T. HAMILTON, farmer, is a native of Nicholas Couuty, Ky., was born September 8, 1811, the eldest son of James P. and Margaret (Turner) Hamilton, natives respectively of Indiana and Ohio. James P. Hamilton came to Kentucky with his parents when seventeen years old, where he married, and farmed until 1837, when he removed to Decatur County, Ind., and closed his life in 1844, aged fifty-four, and his wife hers in 1855, aged sixty-three years. James T. Hamilton was given charge of the home farm when twelve years old, and remained in that position until his twenty-second year, when he began milling in Bourbon County, Ky., and superintended also a small farm. Later, he purchased a mill property near Lexington, which he managed for eighteen years. In 1864, becoming complicated in war troubles, he was compelled to leave Kentucky, und some time afterward purchased a flouring mill in Decatur County, Ind.; this he subsequently exchanged for a farm in Rush County, Ind., and three years later sold this with the purpose of removing to Southwest Missouri, but instead located on land in Shelby, and then in Boone County, until 1880, and thereafter exchanged the latter farm for 146 acres, where he now lives. Mr. Hamilton has been twice married - tirst, March 29, 1835, to Miss Nancy Turner, of Kentucky, who died October 25, 1858, leaving three sons - J. Alexander, Robert A. and James W.; second, August 18, 1859, with Miss Martha Neal, of Kentucky; five children were born to this union - David M., James W., Frank B., Hulcea J. and Mary E. Mr. and Mrs. Hamilton are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

DR. JAMES M. HARRIS is a native of Jessamine County, Ky., was born October 19, 1819, and is the eldest of the seven children of Thomas and Elizabeth (McCarley) Harris, natives respectively of Virginia and North Carolina. Thomas Harris, in 1831, located near Smithville, and afterward near Spencer, where our sub- ject passed his boyhood on the farm and in going to school. When twenty years of age, he entered the office of Dr. S. P. Langdon, of Gosport; remained there two years doing some practice, and soon after located at Ellettsville, where he was the only physician, and where ho built up a large business in his way. In 1865, he established a drug trade, which he continued several years before retiring to his farm, embracing 200 acres - a good property and commodious home. March 2, 1848, he married Miss Sarah, daughter of William and Polly Fletcher, and born August 6, 1823. Twelve children graced this union, six of whom are living- - William T., John J., S. Emmet, James F., Hester A. and Lou Jessie. Dr. Harris is a Freemason, a Repubiican, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, an efficient Sunday school worker and temperance advocate. He has also held the office of Township Trustee for six successive years. In 1850, he established the first hotel in Ellettsville, and continued the same for two years. Dr. Harris is a publicspirited and worthy citizen. Mrs. Harris adheres to the Presbyterian Church.

W. T. HARRIS, hardware merchant, was born January 13, 1847, und isa son of Dr. J. M. Harris. His boyhood days were passed at school and on the farm. At the age of twenty years, he engaged in the tin shop, buying an interest with Mr. Edwards, to whom he afterward became successor, and which business he continued four years. In November, 1871, he purchased a stock of mixed hardware from F. E. Worley, and afterward added stoves and the like. By tact for trade and attention to business, he has constantly increased his stock and taken the patronage of the town. July 29, 1870, he married Miss Martha, daughter of Robert Acuff, and born August 26, 1856. Mr. Acuff was a pioneer of the county. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Harris has been favored by the birth of two children - Harry G. and Beulah. Mr. Harris, politically, is a Republican, and Mrs. Harris is a member of the religious denomination known as Christians. <

SAMUEL B. HARRIS is a native of Kentucky, was born June 16, 18238, and is the third of the seven children of Thomas Harris. Our subject was brought to Owen County, Ind., by his parents when seven years of age, whom he assisted on their farm until he became sixteen, when he went under apprenticeship to the blacksmith trade for three years, after which he started a shop on his father's farm, and later traveled as a journeyman, and taught six terms of school. By these means, he saved sufficient to purchase a farm, and afterward engaged in business in Elletsville for seventeen years, and then erected a woolen mill. About 1864, he moved to Coles County, Ill., where he built a saw and grist mill, and later returned to his old home and engaged in milling successfully. September 10, 1846, he married Miss Endemile Chambers, a union favored with six children, of whom four survive - Mary E., John R., William B. and Perry Oliver. Mr. Harris is a consistent Freemason, a Republican, and in religion a Universalist. He was instrumental in establishing the first newspaper in the town, and which he passed to his son, who is now editor thereof. Mr. Harris is a prominent and esteemed citizen, and was for three years Postmaster at Ellettsville. -

JOHN R. HARRIS, dealer in dry goods, notions, gents' furnishing goods, ete., was born May 18, 1847, in this county, and is the eldest son of Samuel B. Harris. After attending school, be began clerking for his father when twelve years old, and assisted in tho mill; and in Coles

County, Ill., engaged with him in the milling business. On returning to this locality, he had charge of his father's mill until 1879, and when this was sold he came to Ellettsville, and engaged in mercantile trade with his brother, Perry O., under the firm namo of Harris & Brother. In 1883, said firm was dissolved, and John R. became sole proprietor of the business. August 29, 1882, he married Miss Phebe, daughter of John Matthews, recently deceased, she having been born July 18, 1856. John R. Harris is one of the most successful and promising business men of his years to be found. In politics, he is a Republican, and an esteemed citizen and a worthy gentleman. Mrs. Harris is a member of the Baptist Church.

RICE C. HARRIS, M. D., is the youngest of the six children of Thomas and Elizabeth (McCarley) Harris. He was born in Owen County, Ind., November 15, 1834, and remained at home until he was fifteen years old, when the family moved to Ellettsville, and he attended school for two years, and taught in 1851. In 1852, under his brother, Dr. J. M. Harris, he commenced to study medicine, and then taught for a period of years. March 5, 1853, he married Miss Rebecca Wood, of this county, who died October, 1854, and April 14, 1857, he wedded Miss Mary J. Knighton, by which marriage they bad nine children, five of whom are living - Thomas B., Rebecca W., William W., Oliver K. and Lizzie A. Dr. Harris attended lectures at Ann Arbor University in 1856-57, afterward engaged in practice with his brother one year, then moved to Coles County, Ill.; there practiced four years, and removed to this town, where he has remained in successful pursuit of his profession, both in surgery and medicine. Dr. Harris has of late years given attention to his farms, and is beside the owner of several dwellings and business houses. He is a Republican, and has served as Postmaster for sixteen years. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and Mrs. Harris is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

W. B. HARRIS, editor-in-chief of the Monroe County Citizen, is the son of S. B. and Endemile (Chambers) Harris, natives respectively of Kentucky and Indiana. He was born March 6, 1856, in Ellettsville, Ind., where he passed his boyhood in going to school and working on a farm. In 1872, he entered the Ellettsville Republican office, as a type-setter, for eighteen months, and then became editor for one year. Soon after this, he went to Indianapolis, and assisted in the office of the Herald. In 1875, he returned to Ellettsville, managed the Sun, and afterward published the Owen County People, which he disposed of in 1881, and retired to a farm for a year, when he purchased the Ellettisville News, and changed the name to the Monroe County Citizen, a popular and eflicient journal, of Republican shade in politics. March 9, 1876, he married Miss Allie, daughter of Hiram Branton, and born November 30, 1856. This union gave issue to four children - Carl B., Edmund B., Kate H. and Henry B. Mr. Harris is a member of tho I. O. O. F., and Mrs. Harris of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

REV. W. H. JACKSON is a native of Brown County, Ohio, was born December 29, 1815, and is the eldest child of Bernard and Elizabeth (Wisner) Jackson, the former a native of Virginia, the latter of Maryland. Bernard Jackson was a carpenter and cabinet-maker, and moved from Virginia to Brown County. Ohio, shortly after the war of 1812. at that time the only mechanic in his section, and commanded the trade. He became owner of 670 acres, which made him well to doin his declin- ing days. Until he was forty-three he was an Deist, but becoming converted from Bible reading, he lived thereafter a Christian life. He was a Democrat, and father of seventeen children. Rev. W. H. Jackson was reared to the farming business, but obtained considerable education, and mainly from his own exertions in study. He remained at home until of age, and being a natural mechanic, took to building carriages and wagons, which business he abandoned for the ministry in 1848, although he had begun preaching in 1844. He was ordained by the Methodist Episcopal Conference in 1849, assigned to North Madison, and after various charges, was made Chaplain of the Fiftieth Indiana Regiment in 1861. In 1868, he was detailed as Post Chaplain in Kentucky, and later at La Grange, preaching tive sermons each Sabbath. In 1803, he returned and opened a drug store, then a dry goods store, and with which he has operated a saw mill. Later he purchased a flouring mill in Ellettsville, which was destroyed by fire in 1888, causing $10,000 loss. November 24, 1837, he married Miss Jane Goldsborough, to which union were born ten children, five living - Sophronia E., Sarah, Wesleyanna J., William Jerome and James W. Mr. Jackson was a Democrat, but is now a Republican. He still preaches actively. He was a Notary Public for sixteen years, was admitted to the bar, and is an Odd Fellow, a temperance man, and belongs to the G. A. R.

DAVID S. JOHNSON, farmer, is a sonof David and Polly (Whited) Johnson, both natives of North Carolina, and of German and Irish extraction respectively. He was born February 23, 1829, the fourth of ten children, in Bartholomew County, Ind., his parents soon after moving to Lawrence County, where he was reared to the business of farming, and plainly educated. He remained at home until of mature age, when he began farming on rented land. September 2, 1852, he married Miss Emily, daughter of John and Nancy Dunlevy. After marriage, Mr. Johnson moved to his father's farm, near Bedford, which he purchased in 1860, and where he lived for some time in a pioneer cabin. Thus he acquired a home, and in 1869 sold the same and located at Ellettsville, and purchased sixty acres west of the town, which he improved, cultivated, and where he founded a good orchard. Mr. Johnson was an early-comer to this region, when Indians and game were more numerous than settlers. He is a Republican, and gave his first vote for Gen. Fremont. He is,a member of the Odd Fellow fraternity, and he and his consort are honored members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

JOEL BENJAMIN KIRBY, farmer. was born in the house in which he now lives May 16, 1849, and is the second of the family of nine born to William and M.A. Kirby, now of Van Buren Township. Joel was bred to the profession of farming, and when fifteen years old moved with his parents to Van Buren Township, where he grew to maturity and had common school advantages. When twenty four years old, he purchased an interest in a grist mill, managed the same two years, then returned to farming, and purchased eighty acres, thus owning 117 acres. In 1881, he sold this land and bought that once used by his grandfather, and at this time possesses 140 acres, 120 of which are improved. October 6, 1875, he married Miss Matilda H., daughter of John and Margaret Dinsmore, and born January 4, 1850. This union has resulted in four children - Margaret D., Sarah D., Elizabeth V. and Theophilus W. Mr. Kirby is a member of the venerable Masonic order, and is a Patron of Husbandry. He is a Republican in politics, and a greatly esteemed citizen. Ho and wifo are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church,

J. P. KNIGHTEN, retired farmer, is a native of Bloomington, was born December 18,1819, and is the youngest of three children composing the family of J. W. and Nancy Knighten, who moved from North Carolina to this county in 1816. Our subject was the first white child bornin this section. He was orphaned when thirteen years old; then began to work for himself, and after a period devoted himself to acquiring some education and learning the trade of a plasterer, at which he worked for seven years; then he came tu Ellettsville and purchased a saw-mill and woolen factory, operating these for five years. March 8, 1846, he married Miss Mary C., daughter of William and Hannah G. Puett. In 1549, he purchased eighty acres, and soon after 104 acres more, removing to his present location in 1850. He now cultivates 160 acres- -all the fruits of his industry and care - a good home and valuable property. He has been a life-long Republican, and he and wife belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church.

JOHNSON F. McELROY, farmer, was born May 30, 1820, his parents being David and Martha McKtroy, both natives of North Carolina and of Scotch-Irish extraction. The paternal grandfather. Our subject was a soldier of the Revolution. Our subject was early left fatherless, with but small advantage for getting an education. When thirteen years old, his mother came by team to this State and settled near Ellettsville, where he rented some land, being the only family support and having to labor for 25 cents per day. After four years he purchased forty acres for $100, which he paid after some years. He erected a cabin for the family, and his mother spun the texture for their clothes and kept the house; she died July, 1864, aged seventy-four years. April 12, 1853, he married Miss Elizabeth Hinkle, born April 21, 1833, to which union two children were born--Ira J. and Emma C. Mr. McElroy has lived on his homestead more than forty-six years, during which he bas seen many changes and acquired good property. He is politically a Republican, a most exemplary man and citizen, and he and wife are members of the Christia Church.

G. W. McHENRY is a son of John and Rebecca A. (Wilson) Mo- Henry, natives respectively of Knox and Monroe Counties, Ind. The paternal grandparents of our subject were settlers in Knox County previous to the war of 1812, of which Mr. McHenry was a soldier. John Mc- Henry was reared in Owen County, was a farmer, and made a good home for his family; he also followed boating to New Orleans for a long time. He died May 4, 1875, followed by his wife in 1880, both members of the Baptist Church. G. W. McHenry is the second of thirteen children, was born in Bean Blossom Township February 12, 1841, and was bred by his father to farming, with whom he remained 'until 'he was twenty-two years old. February 22, 1863, he married Miss Izora Moore, who died January 12, 1870, leaving three children - William T., Oscar W. and Minnie I. "After marriage, Mr. McHenry farmed on rented Jand for two years, when he engaged as clerk for a time, and afterward farmed again. October 18, 1872, he wedded his second wife, Miss Lucy M. Cox, whose father was a pioneer of Owen County. Mr. McHenry is a man of good business capacity, a worthy citizen, a Democrat politically and an upright gentleman. He end wife are connected with the Baptist Church.

ELIJAH H. MARSHALL, stock-raiser and farmer, is a son of William G. and Christiana (Strawn) Marshall, natives of Pennsylvania, the former of Greene, and the latter of Fayette County, and respectively of Scotch and German extraction. William G. Marshall moved to Rising Sun, Ind., in 1818, and three years later to Lawrenceburg, where he worked at his trade of carpenter, and afterward settled on land for farming purposes. In 1865, he came to this county, where he died August 7, 1882, aged eighty-two years. He was a pensioned soldier of the war of 1812, and with Gen. Hull. He was a Republican and a Universalist. His wife survives and resides with our 'ubject at eightysix years of age; she is a Quaker. Elijah H. Marshall was born in Dearborn County, Ind., November 8, 1835, and after some preliminary education entered Moores Hill College, with much advantage. On reaching his majority he began teaching in this county; continued for four years, and then engaged at farming, which he followed until 1861, when he enlisted in the Thirty-eighth Regimental Band. During his service, he contracted measles, since which his health has been impaired. After his discharge, he engaged in farming, and has so continued until the present time, being interested in raising good horses and cattle. Mr. Marshall is a fine musician, and has taught music for a number of years. He has been thrice married; first, March, 1860; he wedded Miss Rebecca J. Allen, who died July 8, 1864, leaving two children - Harland E. and Ethe] (now deceased). He next wedded, April 28, 1865, Miss Matilda J. Sanders, who died February 27, 1872, leaving five children - Zada, Eber, Dessie, Luke W. and Sibert. November 15, 1874, he married his present wife, Miss Nancy Whitesell. Mr. Marshall is a member of tho Baptist, and Mrs. Marshall of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

NATHAN R. MATSON is a native of Cumberland County, Penn., was born April 5, 1840, and is a son of Peter and Mary Matson, natives of Pennsylvania, and respectively of English and Scotch descent. After going to school at intervals until he was sixteen, Nathan began his apprenticeship to the trade of a tanner, which trade he finished in Philadelphia in 1859. He then came West, and worked as a tanner at Bloomington until 1861, whem he enlisted in Company G, Thirty-eighth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, assigned to the Army of the Cumberland, and, baving served his term, re-enlisted as a veteran in the same company. After various promotious he became Second Lieutenant. He participated in the greatest battles of that campaign, and afterward suffered from rheumatism and weakness of vision, which incapacitated him fromm following his trade, and he was elected by the Republicans Township Trustee for four years. October 2, 1865, he married Miss Ann Matthews, which union gave being to four children - John E., Mary A., James H. and George W. Mrs. Matson died July 6, 1875. Mr. Matson is a member of the Masonic fraternity, of the G. A. R., and of the Baptist Church; he is also highly extolled as a citizen.

JOHN MATTHEWS deceased (late of the firm of Matthews & Son, now P. T., William N. and Frederick Matthews), was born October 10, 1806, in County Sussex, England; was apprenticed in London to the stone and marble work. and assisted at buildiag some of the Parliament houses, etc. Here he married his wife, Miss Mary A. Drake; they had twelve children, seven of whom are living - Peter T., William N., Jane, James L., Susan, Phebe and Frederick. In 1849, the Matthews family left for America, were delayed on the voyage by a mutiny, and finally landed at New Orleans, where Mr. M. was offered inducements to remain; but he moved to Cincinnati, thence to Louisville, and thence to this State, in Jefferson County, and opened a quarry for Dean Bros. In 1859, he came to this county and opened a quarry for himself, which he managed until his death. A specimen of this stone took first premium at the Centennial. He was a Union Democrat and a highly esteemed citizen. He died May 27, 1883, aged seventy-seven, a member of the Baptist Church; his wife is yet living, aged sixty-seven years.

Francis D. Marrnews (the second son) was a veteran soldier of the recent war, a member of Company G, Thirty-eighth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and was shot before Atlanta.

Perer T. Marruews was born in London July 8, 1840. In 1861, he enlisted as a drummer in the Nineteenth Regimental Band. Most of this'band were captured at the battle of Bull Run, but Peter escaped and served until the war was closed. After returning, he engaged witb his father in the quarrying business, and September, 1867, he married Miss Sarah E., daughter of Robert T. Stimson, which union gave them four children - Eftie, Albert, John and Charles. Mr. Matthews is a member of the Masons and the G. A. R.

Wittum N. Marrasews was born in England November 1, 1844. When the war broke out, he was anxious to join the army, and, being refused permission by his father, set out on foot to Indianapolis, where he enlisted in Company G, One Hundred and Fifteenth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry; joined Burnside's division, participated in several battles and did skirmish duty, and served in the Quartermaster's Department until the war ended. After his return, he, too, engaged in assisting his father. November 8, 1869, he married Miss Adeline H. Johnson, by which union were born four children - Francis E., Cora E. and Irvin and Mabel (twins). Mr. Matthews is a Freemason, and he adn wife belong to the Baptist Church.

Freperick Marrnews was born at Stinesville, Ind., March 25, 1859. When he became a man he became a partner with his brothers, and January 23, 1879, married Miss Nettie B. Moore; they have one daughter - Bertha A. Mr. Matthews is a Democrat.

JOHN A. MAY, barber, is the eighth of the twelve children of John P. and Susan (Whalen) May, the former a native of Virginia. John P. May was a farmer, who moved with his family to Washington County, Ind., in 1831; engaged in butchering for six years; then removed to Van Buren Township; thore carried on a distillery, and finally located on a farm, where he closed his life October 30, 1862. He was a worthy citizen, a Republican, and a member of the Christian Church. Five of his sons were in the Union army at one time, and all returned when the war was ended. John A. May was born in Van Buren Township March 18, 1843, and brought up a farmer. When seventeen years old, he enlisted in Company I, Fifty-ninth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, as a musician, going out September, 1861, and being discharged November, 1863, having seen hard and varied service. After returning, he engaged in lumbering, and then purchased a barber's outfit, such trade having been acquired while on duty as a soldier. He has beon very successful und has a good trade. May 28, 1876, he married Susan E. Vannoy, a union which produced three children - Cora D., Freddie C. (deceased) and Minnie A. Mr. May is a Mason, an Odd Fellow and a Red Man. He is a rigid Republican and a liberal citizen. Mr. and Mrs. May are members of the Christian Church.

Moore, natives of Virginia, and of English extraction, who moved to Kentucky, where Mr. Moore died, and whence Mrs. Moore returned to Virginia, and there married Joseph Copenhaver, after which they removed to this county, in 1832, where Mrs. Copenhaver died in 1835. Our subject was reared to industry, and began to make his own way when seventeen years old by clearing and chopping. June 3, 1835, he married Miss Elizabeth Copenhaver, a union honored by eighteen children, of which number are living - Tillman H., Taylor S., William, James M., Charles L., Clara L., Lizzie and Carrie. After marriage, Mr. Moore farmed on rented land, and afterward procured eighty acres of his own, which he improved. He was diligent, economical, and made sure headway, adding to his possession until he owned 600 acres, which he sold in 1852, and purchased his present place of 240 acres, now one of the best farms in the township. Mr. Moore is one of the most substantial farmers and citizens of these parts, and is in politics an active Republican. He and wife are members in honor of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

GEORGE B. MOORE, merchant, is a native of this county, was born March 1, 1821, and is the third child of John and Jane (Dowell) Moore, both natives of North Carolina. John Moore was a farmer and wagon-maker. He moved hither in 1820; svon after went back to the East, but came again to this State, made a home for his family and finished his course of life. His wife is yet living, aged eighty-eight years, on the homestead settled by her husband fifty-five years ago; she is, as Mr. Moore was, a member of the Baptist Church. George B. Moore was reared a farmer, and received but twelve months' schooling. When eighteen years of age he began working for himself as a farmer, but after about three years became a clerk at Mount Tabor, and in 1850 commenced mercantile business at Spencer, from which point he removed to Santa Fé, where he continued in success for eight years. He then sold his property and removed his stock to Ellettsville, where he now continues with a stock of $5,000, a substantial and successful merchant. Mr. Moore has been twice married - first, he wedded Mary Steffey, who died in 1865, leaving three out of five children - QGeorge B., Elvira J. and Oscar Franklin; he wedded, second, in 1867, Mrs. Nancy J. Steel, formerly of Owen County. Mr. Moore hus dealt much in grain, pork, wool, etc., and is, in all, worth probably $40,000. He is a Democrat, and, with his wife, a member of the Baptist Church.

GEORGE MORELAND, life and fire insurance agent, was born in this township January 27, 1847, and is the third son of L. H. and Margaret (Billings) Moreland, natives respectively of North Carolina and Tennessee. L. H. Moreland, moved to Greene County, this State, about 1928, where his father had entered land, and which he assisted to improve and cultivate. Having a fair education, he became a teacher, and followed that vocation for twenty years, in alternation with farming. In 1861, he moved to Owen County, and thence to Greene County again, where he finished his course April 28, 1877. His wife is yet living at Worthington, Ind. George W. was reared a farmer, with a fair education. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company I, Highty-second Indiana Volunteer Infantry, which regiment was placed in the Cumberland division,and engaged at Stone River, Hoover's Gap, Chickamauga, Mission Ridge and Buzzard's Roost, where Mr. Moreland received seven crawled one-quarter of a mile; his injuries were pronounced mortal, but he recovered, by good nursing from a New York lady, and after some time in the hospitals he was discharged, April, 1865. In 1866, he commenced teaching vocal music, in which he continued until 1878, and which he subsequently abandoned for his present business. October 10, 1867, he married Miss Mary A. Johnson, born August 25, 1850, a union which gave being to five children - Minnie D., Addie L., Bertha C., Myrtie M. and Sankie (deceased). Mr. Moreland is an esteemed citizen, and he and his wife are members of the Christian Church.

CAPT. G. K. PERRY is a native of Rockland, Me., wag born December 26, 1831, and is the eldest of four children. The great-grandfather of our subject, Job Perry, was a native of Marshtteld, Mass., and died in 1789; he was the father of tenchildren. The grandfather of our subject, also Job Perry, was born in 1762, married Polly Jordan, and died December 19, 1841. The parents of our subject were Job and Margaret (Butler) Perry, who married November 14, 1830. Mr. Perry was lost on the Florida coast, while going to New York; Mrs: Perry died May 26, 1882, in Rockland, Me. These parents were members of the Baptist Church. Capt. Perry was left fatherless when seven years old, and went to an academy at Salem, Mass., for two years. After hearing of the California gold excitement, he et to go, but was refused, unless willing to return within five years. June, 1850, he embarked, in a company with twelve comrades, the ticket costing $250. After reaching Panama, he was offered and refused $1,000 for his ticket. He reached California safely, and soon departed for Sacramento, and in El Dorado County worked ten days with pickax and pan, without encouragment, after which he worked ona dam to turn the river, which labor was destroyed by the autumn rains. When the company was dissolved, each member was allotted twenty feet square, and the Captain's was a rich one. In 1855, he returned, and in 1858 came West to engage in farming, reaching Ellettsville November 26, and engaged in rafting to Detroit. When volunteers were called for during the late war, he raised a company and was elected Captain, but took only First Lieutenant, September, 1861, of Company G, Thirty-eight Indiana Volunteer Infantry. In 1862, he was made Captain, and resigned in 1863. He participated at Stone River and in other engagements of the Army of the Cumberland. After returning, he engaged in mercantile business at Ellettsville until 1867, and afterward with his brother in quarrying and monumental work, they now giving employment to nearly seventy-five men; they have also a flourishing grocery business. June 5, 1865, he married Julia D. Healy, who died October 24, 1874, leaving two daughters - Mabel and Grace. He next married Henrietta C. Hasslock, to which union were four boys - Gilbert K., Herman H., Eugene H. R., and Frederic E. Mr. Perry is an influential Republican, and has been Township Trustee for three terms. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and of the G. A. R.

JOHN K. PHIPPS, dealer in grocries, hardware and notions, is a native of North Carolina, was born October 29, 1841, and is a son of Ezeziel H., and Clarissa (Russel) Phipps, natives respectively of Virginia and South Carolina, and both of English descent, who in 1856 moved to Georgia, where John K., passed his boyhood in attending school, and at farm work. In May, 1861, he enlisted in the Confederate cause, was captured in 1865, and taken to Point Lookout for some months, then took the oath of allegiance and was discharged, having served at Bull Run,

Malvern Hill, Fredericksburg, Antietam, Gettysburg, Petersburg and Weldon, where he received a flesh wound in the thirh, was placed some time in the hospital and joined his regiment at Fi: Forks. After the war, he engaged in farming until 1868, removed hither in 1869, and worked with Matthews & Son for fourteen years. September, 1872, he married Miss Nancy Jamison, of this township, with an issue of two children - Mattie B., and William J. In 1883, he purchased the stock of goods of Mr. Moore, for $1,000, which he has increased by energy and tact to a commanding and attractive one. Mr. Phipps is a member of the Masonic order, and a Democrat in politics; he and wife are members of the Methodist, Episcopal Church.

AUSTIN B. REEVKS, farmer and stock-raiser, is a son of Benjamin and Nancy Reeves, the former a native of Virginia, the latter of Kentucky. Austin S. Reeves, grandfather of our subject, was a Revolutionary soldier, and Benjamin Reeves was a hero of the war of 1812. In 1820, he came to this county, passing down the Ohio in a flat-boat he had built. As a result of his industry, he acquired 160 acres, and made a good home from the virgin land. He was a Whig, and died February, 1846, aged sixty-six; his wife passed away seven years previous, aged fifty-four years. They were the parents of nine daughters and two sons. Austin B. Reeves was born in Van Buren Township August 27, 1829, and the eldest sun of the family. He was brought up to industry and to farming. When seventeen years old, was left an orphan, and became au apprentice to blacksmithing; served nearly four years, and received only board and clothes. Later, he purchased the homestead farm, and devoted his time to agriculture. In 1882, he sold this farm and purchased his present home. August 5, 1854, he marrried Arabelle I. Pauley, of this county, and to this union seven children came to bless it, six of whom are living - Garrison P., Flora B., Mary H., John Mce., B. Colfax and Austin M. Mr. Reeves is a liberal and worthy citizen, a Republican, and a member of the Patrong of Husbandry. Mrs. Reeves is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

JOHN A. REEVES, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Owen County, Ind., February 27, 1839, and is the fourth of the family of Andy W. and Sallie A. (McDonald) Reeves, both of whom came to this State in childhood. John A. was reared and grew to manhood as a farmer. September 20, 1860, he married Miss Ava Allen, only daughter of Elisha and Mary E. Allen, and born June 9, 1841. To this union were bestowed five children - John E. (deceased), Mary E., Sallie A., Olive G. and William ©. After marriage, Mr. Reeves entered the store of his father-inlaw, and in 1861 enlisted in Company G, Thirty-eighth Regiment Indiana Volunteers, going out as Third Sergeant, from which he rose by merit to be First Lieutenant, but owing to failing health he resigned his commission in April, 1863; he saw hard servico in the battle of Perryville. On returning, he went into business with his father-in-law at Ellettsville, and on the death of his partner, December, 1868, succeeded to the business, which he continued until August, 1875, when he sold, removed to Bloomington, and took charge of the County Treasurer's office, to which he was elected by the Republicans. At the expiration of his second term, he retired to his farm of 160 acres, besides thirty-two acres near by in timber; this place is also well improved and cultivated. Mrs. Reeves belongs to the Christian Church. ; !

dian Creek Townsbip, was born June 19, 1819, and is the eldest son of the family of Benjamin and Henrietta (Staton) Ridge, both natives of Kentucky, and of English extraction. Levi Ridge passed his boyhood on the farm, attending school for a short time, at periods also choppirg wood and doing general farm work, which course he continued until he was twenty-five. March 12, 1845, he married Miss Elizabeth Dunning, of this county, to which union were born seven children - Harriet J., Amanda H.. Susan A., James B., Thomas F., William E. (deceased) and America I. The mother of these children died January 6, 1875, aged fifty-two years. Mr. Ridge began farming on forty acres purchased from his father, which he improved, and on which he built a cabin. In 1871, he sold his place and purchased his present home and farm, containing 190 acres. Mr. Ridge has also forty acres near by, on which is a good brick house and frame barn, both of these being the fruit of his toil and saving, having once labored at making rails for 25 cents per hundred. He was once a Whig, but of later years has voted with the Republicans. Mr. Ridge is a worthy and esteemed citizen.

JAMES T. ROBERTSON, grocer, was born April 19, 1842 - near Bloomington, and is ason of James A. and Mary A. (Hardesty) Robertson, the former a native of Kentucky, the latter of Maryland. After attending the common schools, James F. went to the State University for a year, and in January, 1864, enlisted in Company K, Twentyfirst Heavy Artillery, which was assigned to the Army of the Gulf, under Gen. Banks, and participated in the Red River expedition und in the siege of Fort Morgan; he was discharged May 19, 1865, from disability; he afterward became clerk in a dry goods house, and in 1866, engaged in his present business, with a small stock of goods, in which he has succeeded in obtaining a leading trade. March, 1868, he married Miss Rachel, a daughter of William Prather, which union has resulted in the birth of five children - Otho Schuyler, Mary Maud, James William, Lauren W. and Kittie B. Mr. Robertson is a radical Republican, and a member of the I. O. O. F. and the G. A. R.; he is also an influential and esteemed citizen. Mrs. Robertson is a member of the Christian Church.

ELI RUMPLE, farmer and stock-raiser, is a son of Jacob and Mary Rumple, was born January 1, 1828, in Burk County, N. C., and was brought to this county by his parents in 1830. He was reared as a farmer, and received but little education, but having been taught the use of tools, he commenced as a carpenter, at which he worked as a journeyman for two years, afid as a contractor for six years. June 17, 1856, he married Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas and Priscilla Howard. Seven children, five of whom are living, were followers of this marriage - Lura Arbel, Lurinda, Ardilla, Dayton M., George E. and Sarah T. After marriage, ho located on a small farm in Clay Township on which he remained until 1860, when he sold and purchased his present farm of ninety-five acres, and afterward some land adjoining, now having a home and farm comprising 280 acres, 240 of which are under good cultivation, and all the result of his own care and toil. Mr. Rumple is a publicspirited and esteemed citizen, and a Democrat in politics.