Ross Township (part 1 of 2)

Ross Township

This Township was re of John Ross, + iate Judges of Clinton County. inm destined to lead the march of civilization in the this part of the country was Solomon Miller, father of now a citizen of Owen Township. He came in March of 1825, a fixed his home on the farm at present owned by Mr. Metzer. H e was compelled to cut his way through from Dayton, Tippecanoe an Reaching his forest home, he went vigorously to work, and in the Summer of 1828 raised a small patch of corn, which was the first grown in the Township. For a few months Mr. Miller was the only inhabitant of what is now Ross Township. However, during Summer and Fall of the same year (1828), three fearless, energetic men came and cast their lot with him. They were Daniel Underhill, who settled on the Wolf and Bicker farm; Mathias Widner, on the land belonging to his heirs, and a Mr. Arthur, who also settled on the Bicker and Wolf farm.

In the year 1829, it being known that a settlement, aetually existed in that section of country, a number of substantial men were encouraged to try their fortunes in the wild woods of Ross. - They were John Cripe, who settled on the farm where Isaac Cripe is now living; Shadrick Bowen, on the John Riley farm; Aaron Parcel, on the land owned by John Enwright; Esom Scott, on the Bricker farm; William Peters, on the land at present belonging to Clapper; Andrew Major, on the Huffard land; Samuel Seawright, on the farm belonging to Mr. Dance, and Samuel Cripe, whose exact location to us is unknown.

In 1830 and "31, came John Smith, locating on the James Wilson farm; John Carick, on the farm owned by his heirs; Thomas Major, on the land owned by the heirs of Latchaw; Jacob Cripe, on Graybill farm; Wiiliam Smith, on the land yet the property of his heirs; Henry Buckhalter, location not known; Brafford, on the Baler farm; Andrew Waymire, on the laud belonging to Huffman ; William Price, on the Carson farm ; David C. Clark, on the farm of Uriah Ross; and John Logan, on what is at present the Murphy farm. `

In 1832, John and Thomas Ewing settled on the land now the present site of Rossville. Others of 1832 were Samuel P. John, George Ewing, William Robinson, Cyrus Magill, Peter Jacoby, Hamilton Stein and William Perrin.

Among those of 1833, were Henry Peters, who is still living on the farm where he settled; John F. Shaw, Benjamin Ashley, John Major, David Lefever, Michael Stutler, Jonathan, Reuben, William and Emanuel Peters, and Edward Buckhalter.

Among those who came soon after 1834, with others, at an early day, but whose date and place of settlement, are at present unknown, we name Peter Greybill, Simeon Bryan, Noah and George Sharp, Peter, Michael and John Widner, William Gouchenour, James Taylor, Jacob Shively, Doughdy, Jacob Beeler, Daniel Buck, Moses and Peter Jacob, Philip aud Daniel Slipher, Harland Carter, Isaac Roll, Jonas Clark, Jacob Bales, Hugh McClintock, Cyrus McGill, Dawson, Richardson and Joseph Hayes.

The first religious meeting in the township was held at the cabin of William Smith, in 1830, by the Methodists. About the same time, meeting was held at the house of Solomon Miller by the Presbyterians - James Carnahan preaching. The first regular church organization was effected by Methodists, at William Smith's in 1831. The Presbyterians were the next denomination to permanently or

1833. This was a union church, and used by all denominations. At an early day, exact date not known, a church was built on the Will. iam Peters farm. About 1837, a church was built in Rossy the. Methodists, and afew years later, in the same pl erected by thé Baptists.

The township was organized Saturday, May 15, 1830. It accordingly is one of the oldest townships in the county, but two others: Jackson and | Washington, bearing the same date. Soon after the perfecting of the organization, an election was held at the cabin of David Lefever. John Smith was eleeted first Justice of th

Probably the first death that occurred was Mary Miller in 18: She was buried at the Oxford Church grave William aa died early in the Spring of 1833, EM o., dry goods; Henry Smith, hardware ; ; Koup undertaker ; "oh. Mills, shoemaker 17 E. Witherow, bd. EP John T. Sheffler, grocery ; J. J. Fisher, carriage mannfie. 5" Snider & Fleming, blacksmiths ; W. L. Jackson, carri : manufacturer ; Roth & Smith, pump makers; James Stevenson, : butcher; Smith, Roth & Co., saw-mill ; H. M. Ryhn, carriage many. facturer ; James McGlivery, druggist; Copler, Landis & Co., gristmill; John Lewis, livery stable ; hotel, D. K. Seigfried, proprietor Short & Smith, tile manufacturers ; Joseph Ashby, blacksmith ; John Woodring, painter. Physicians are Alexander Wilson and 8, B, i jon. 5 : M albo four - Methodist, Presbyterian, Baptist and German : Reformed. One graded school and a post office. Population, fiye

Source changes here: from History of Clinton County, Indiana. Together with Sketches of Its Cities, Villages and Towns, Educational, Religious, Civil, Military, and Political History, Portraits of Prominent Persons, and Biographies of Representative Citizens. Also a Condensed History of Indiana, Embodying Accounts of Prehistoric Races, Indian Wars, and a Brief Review of Its Civil and Political History, published 1886; 16,810 words in this source stream.

Ross Township

Ross Township is in the extreme northwestern part of Clinton County, and includes the south half of township 23 north, range 2 west, and six sections from each of townships 22 and 23 north, range 1 west. It is bounded on the north by Carroll County, on the east by Owen Township, on the south by Wasliington and Madison townships, and on the west by Tippecanoe County. As an agricultural township, Ross probably ranks first in the county. The surface is quite uneven, and consequently is to a great extent selfdraining through the natural water courses which are: Middle Fork in the northren part, Cripe's Run in the central portion, and Hog Run in the southern part, all of which flow in a westerly direction through the township in their respective locations. " The soil is generally of a rich dark loam and very productive of wlieat and corn, which are the principle products of this township.

The white man destined to lead the march of civilization within the borders of what is now Ross Township was Solomon Miller, who came in March, 1828, and settled on section 21. In coming he had to cut his way through the wilderness from Dayton, Tippecanoe County, and on reaching his forest home at once attacked the giant oaks and the thick underbrush, to clear them from the land which was destined to become his well-tilled farm. In this he succeeded admirably, for in the following summer he had enough cleared so that he raised a small natch of corn, which was the first grown ia the township. Until the next fall he was the sole inhabitant; then came three more sturdy men to join him in the work of improvement and civilization. These were: Daniel Underwood, who settled on section '20; Mathias Widner, on section 32; and a man by the name of Arthur, on section 20. In 1829 the number of inhabitants increased quite rapidly, and tbose to join the above hardy men, who were lirst to encroach upon the solitude of the dense forests of Ross, were: John Gripe, who settled on section 34; Shadrick Bowen, on section 24; Aaron Parcel, on section 30; Esom Scott, on section 20; William Peters, on the southwest quarter of section 31; Andrew Major, on section 23; Samuel Seawright settled just off where Rossville is now located, and Samuel Gripe, whose exact location is unknown.

In 1830-31 came John Carrick, who located on section 6; Jacob Gripe, on section 33; John Smith, on section 26; Thomas Major, on section 6; William Smith, on section 30; Mr. Bradford, on section 7; Andrew Waymire, on section 22; William Pjice, on section 22; David C. Glark, on section 36, and John Logan, on section 25. In 1832 John and Thomas Ewing settled on land now the site of Rossville and here built two log cabins, around which the village has grown. Others of 1832-'3 were: Samuel P. John, George Ewing, William Robinson, Gyrus Magill, Peter Jacoby, Henry Peters, Hamilton Stein, William Pei-rin, John F. Shaw, Jonathan, Reuben, Emanuel and William Peters, John Major, David Lefever, Benjamin Ashley, Michael Stuttler and Edward Buckhalter.

Among the other early settlers we name John H. Smith, Noah Gaddis, Thomas Smith, Jacob and Joseph Blickenstaff, John, Stephen and Andrew Metzger, Noah and George Sharp, Peter Greybill, William Gochenauer, Peter, Michael and John Widner, James Taylor, Joseph Hayes, Philip and Daniel Slipher, Jacob Bailor, Jacob Shively, Gyrus McGill, Jonas Glark and Hugh Mc- Clintock.

First Events

The first religious meeting in the township was held at the 'cabin of William Smith, who was the first preacher, in 1830, by the Methodists. Soon after a meeting was held at the house of Solomon Miller by the Presbyterians, James Caruahan preaching. The first regular church organization was effected by the Methodists at William Smith's in 1831. The first church was built in 1833 on the farm of Jacob "Watson, which is just across the line in Carroll County. This was a union church and was used by all denominations. Tlie next church was built ou the farm of William Peters soon after.

Ross Township was organized Saturday, May 15, 1830. Two others, Jackson and Washington, were organized on the same day. These three townships are consequently the oldest in the county.

Soon after the organization an election was held at the cabin of David Lefever. John Smith was elected first justice of the peace; James Gaddis, David Clark and Thomas Ewing, first trustees.

The present township oflBcers are: J. F. Witlierell, Trustee; William V. Wilson, Justice of the Peace; P. W. Lewis, Assessor; and J. V. Roth, Constable.

In political sentiment Ross is somewhat varying but is usually Democratic, and in 1884 gave Cleveland a plurality of nineteen votes. The vote of the township at the last general election, November 4, 18S4, for President, State and county oflScers, was as follows :

Statistics Of Ageiculthee Population

Before the censug of 1880 the township had been dirided, and a part annexed to Madison Township, so there was a large decrease, there being at this time only 1,870 inhabitants.

Taxation And Valuation, 1845

A matter of record which will be of much interest in the history of Ross Township is the itemization of the valuation and taxation of its property in 1845, as given below: is situated in the northeastern part of the township, on sections 24 and 25. It was laid off in 1834 by Thomas Ewing and Harland Carter. The first store opened here was owned by William Seawright, the first saddler was John H. Smith, and the first physician was James Wilson, M. D. Its inhabitants number about 500 at the present time (1886), and its business is conducted by men of enterprise and public spirit, who are as follows: Smith & White, John A. Smith and Sheffler Bros., general merchants; W. O. Bell & Co. and J. T. Sheffler, grocers; C. M. Shigiey, hard-

The corporation officers are: S. B. Fisher, Daniel Kreisher and George Stengle, Trustees; J. T. Sheffler, Clerk and Treasurer; F. Miller, Marshal; C. M. Short, W. L. Jackson and J. A. Smith, School Trustees.

liossvUle Lodge, No. 183, /. 0. O. F., was organized January 27, 1857, with the following charter members and first officers: George Lydick, Noble Grand; Alex. Anderson, Vice-Grand, J. J. Perrin, Treasurer; J. Q. A. Perrin, Recording Secretary, and Lewis Nebaker. The lodge is in splendid condition, both socially and financiall}', and about sixty active members. Its present officers are: J. J. Fisher, Noble Grand; E. Armstrong, Vice-Grand; "W. A. Smith, Treasurer, and J. F. Wetherell, Secretary.

Bossville Post, No. 309, O. A. B., was mustered October 27, ISSi, with nineteen charter members who with its first officers were as t'ollows: C. M. Short, Commander; William Stephenson, Senior Vice-Commander; W. A. Gaddis, Junior Vice-Commander; M. B. White, Adjutant; H. L. Smith, Quartermaster; W. F. Merrill, Chaplain; Peter Hall, Quartermaster-Sergeant; J. T. Sheffler, Sergeant- Major; J. A. Emmons, Surgeon; John Detrick, Officer of the Day; A. J. Chittick, Officer of the Guard; T. W. Masters, William Roth, J. J. Ramey, Isaac Horn, Joshua Hunt, George Logan, W. M. Knapp and La Fayette Everett. At the present time (1886) the membership numbers twenty-seven, and the lodge is in excellent working order. The officers for 1886 are: William Stephenson, Commander ; James Emmons, Senior Vice-Commander; James Clark, Junior Vice-Commander; H. L. Smith, Quartermaster; Dr. W. P. Toukey, Surgeon; C. M. Short, Chap-

The Methodist Episcopal was the first church organization in the township, and was founded in 1831. They worshiped in various places until 1837, when they built a church in Rossville. Among the members most prominent in its organization were* Andrew and Hannah Waymire, William David, Thomas and Ann Smith, Jacob and Amy Saylor, Mary, Elizabeth and Kebecca Quick. The first preacher was Rev. H. Freedenberger. In about 1870 they erected their present commodious church building at a cost of over |4,500, and in 1884 built a pleasant parsonage which cost $1,000. The membership of 1886 is about 125. J. S. Montgomery is superintendent of its Sabbath-school which has an average attendance of 150 scholars.

Presbyterian Church. - This was the second church organized in Eoss Township in about 1835 or '6 according to the best recollection of some of the oldest living members. The following persons were instrumental in its organization: Thomas Ewing and wife, Eichard Wilson and wife, John Black and wife, Mr. Van Huysen and wife and Mr. and Mrs. Lafever. The first pastor was theEev. Mr. Carpenter. They worshipped for sometime in the schoolhouse and the old Union church. In about 1840 the present church building was erected. The membership at the present time (1886) is about ninety, and the present pastor is Eev. T. D. Fjffe. The present church officers are as follows: J. M. Eobinson, Eobert. Sims, Thomas Smith and Eobert Sharp, Trustees; J. J. Eamey, J. T. Sheffler and Peter W. Lewis, Deacons.

The Baptist Church was organized in March, 1834, with nine members. Among them were: Eeuben White, David Cloe and wife, Sarah John, Nathaniel Campbell and a Mr. Dawson. Eev. William Reece was the first pastor and William Moore the second. Services were held in a school-house and in the Methodist Episcopal church until about 1840, when they built a church of their own, which at a later day was replaced by a neat brick building. The present pastor is the Eev. Mr. Fritz, and the membership numbers about seventy.

Edna Mills

and the business interests are carried on by the following men : George Geiger, proprietor of the Edna Mills; Jacob Blickenstaff, merchant; Levi Barkhalter, blacksmith; J. C. Gochenauer, postmaster. On the site of this village was erected the first mill in the township, which is the probable cause of its existence.

William Beydler, farmer, Eoss Township, is a native of this township, born July 8, 1849, a son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Gocheuour) Beydler, natives of Virginia, the father born June Y, 1813, and the mother in November, 1814. Soon after their marriage the parents came to Clinton County overland with horses and old canoe wagon, and bought a farm in Ross Township, on which was a small log cabin with a little patch of ground cleared of timber. Here they lived and made a home and reared their children; here the father died November 15, 1861, and here the mother still lives. They had a family of eight children, five of whom are living - Margaret, wife of John F. Neher, of Crawford County, Kansas; Samuel, of Rice County, Kansas; William, our subject; Lydia, with her mother on the homestead, and Amanda, wife of Elias Gripe, of Ross Township. Cornelius and Joseph were about six years of age at the time of their death, and one died in infancy. William Beydler remained at home until his majority, and after the death of his father had charge of the farm. He has always given his attention to agriculture, and now has a good farm of 200 acres located on sections 22 and 28, and also has a beautiful home in Edna Mills, where he has lived since 1880. He was married October 20, 1872, to Mary Metzger, daughter of Samuel and Hannah (Shiveloy) Metzger. Her father was born in Pennsylvania, Angust 24, 1808, and died December 8, 1879. Her mother was born in Ohio, August 21, 1814, and died January 4, 1872. The family consisted of seven children - Elizabeth, wife of Joseph D. Neher; John died in 1879, aged thirty-three years; Susan; Esther, wife of Jacob B. Metzger; Catherine, wife of Aaron C. Metzger; Mary, wife of William Beydler, and Anna, wife of William H. Metzger. Mr. and Mrs. Beydler have two children - Hannah Elizabeth, born July 23, 1873, and Jesse, born December 2, 1879. In politics Mr. Beydler is an independent Democrat. He is a member of the Brethren church.

remained with his parents till nine years of age, when he went with his elder brother and sister to Hamilton County, Ohio, and there became a member of the family of Oakio Kaymond, with whom he lived till he attained the age of twenty-one years. He was reared a farmer, and has always followed that avocation. After leaving Mr. Raymond's house he worked as a farm hand for some years, and in 1856 he came to Clinton County, Indiana. He then bought eighty acres of land in Owen Township, for which he paid $600. He improved his land, which, when he bouglit it, was entirely uncultivated, and erected a log cabin. He then rented his land, which he still owns. In August, 1S62, he enlisted in Company I, One Hundredth Indiana Infantry, to seive three years or during the war, and was discharged at Indianapolis in June, 1865. His first engagement was at Vicksburg, after which he took part in the engagements at Jackson, Mississippi, and Missionary Tlidge. He then marched with his regiment from Missionary Ridge to Knoxville, Tennessee, having nothing to eat on the line of march but corn bread and such food as could be obtained in the country. They then went to Chattanooga, reaching that place in December, 1863, remaining there till April, 1864, going thence to Rcsaea, where they met the enemy in battle and took the place. The next engagement was at Keuesaw Mountain, wlie:i they drove the enemy into Atlanta. They then went to Marietta, Georgia, where they remained for a month, after which the regiment took part in the battles oF Atlanta, taking that place. They then went into camp near Atlanta, but were shortly after flanked by Hood, whom they drove back. They were with Sherman on his march to the sea, their heaviest fight on this line being at Grristleville, near Macon, Georgia, where the rebels lost about 1,500 men, the Union men Ljsing about 140 in killed and wounded. The regiment to which our subject belonged helped take Savannah, near where they camped for a month, going thence to Buford, South Carolina, and from there to Columbia, which place was also surrendered to them. They then took part in the battles of Bentonville and Gcldsbnrg, and from there went to Raleigh, North Carolina. Mr. Enright was married October 11, 1865, to Miss Ann Herr, of Clinton County, Indiana, born and reared in Owen Township, a daughter cf Levi and Susan Herr, who are deceased. They liave three children - Levi, attending college at Butler University, Irvington, Indiana; Alice M., at De Pauw University, and Susan, at home. Mr. Enright began life without capital, but a stout heart and a de- termination to succeed, and by bis industrious babits aud persevering energy be bas been prosperous througb life. He is a son of Peter and Maria (Long) Enrigbt, who were born, reared and married in Ireland, tbe mother being of Scotch descent. Tbey came with their family to America landing at New O.'-leaiis, going tlience to St. Louis, Missouri, where tbe father died in 1874. The mother died at New Orleans in 1845. They were the parents of seven children - Cornelius, deceased; Mary, deceased; John, the subject ot this sketch; Thomas, Patrick, Maria and Hannah.

George Eedel, Jb., a farmer of Ross Township, residing on section 11, was born in Newport, Kentucky, Ma}' 22, 1854, a son of Geoige and Catherine (Barnhart) Erdel, natives of Germany, tbe father born in 1827. He came to America in 1850, and first settled in Newport, Kentucky, where he followed gardening a few years. He was there married in 1852, his wife having come to America with an elder brother when fourteen years of age. Tbey had born to them seven children - George, our subject; William, of Ross Township; Emma, wife of John Combs, of Washington Territory; Aaron, living at home; John, deceased; Harry, at home and Ciiarles, deceased. In 1854 the father removed with his family to Indianapolis, and a few months later located at La Fayette, removing thence shortly afterward to a farm in the vicinity of La Fayette. In 1880 he purchased forty-five acres of land in Ross Township, this county, where he bas since made bis home. He ami his wife are members of the Presbyterian church at Pleasant Hill. George Erdel, our subject, wa-i but an infant when his parents came to Indiana. He was reared to the vocation of a farmer on bis father's farm, near La Fayette, and in 1874 came with his paren^s to Ross Township, Clinton County. He was married at Rossville, February 6, 1877, to Miss Mary Miller, a native of Butler County, Ohio, born December 25, 1853, a daughter of Fred and Catherine (Reef) Miller. They have two children living - Nettie, born Augnst 3, 1880, and Freddie, born March 27, lh82. One child died at birth. Mr. Erdel began farming on his father-inlaw's place, in 1876, where he has since followed agricultural pursuits. Frederick Miller, father of Mrs. Erdel, was born in Germany, April 15, 1813, coming to America when eighteen years of age. He first went to Butler County, Ohio, where he worked as a farm laborer for the same man for many years. He was married at Hamilton, Ohio, about 1846, to Catherine Reef, a native of Holland, Germany, born in 1821, coming to America in 1837. They had a family of seven children, three of whom are yet living - Mary J., wife of our subject; "William H., and Eliza A., wife of Hiram Bell. Mr. Miller came to Clinton County in 1851, and settled in Ross Township, where he had previously bought seventyfive acres of land for $300. When he landed here he had but $2 in his pocket, and not a foot of his land had been cleared, his land being entirely unimproved. He, however, went bravely to work like so many of the old and honored pioneers, and soon felled the timbers and bnilt a pioneer hut for his family. He has watched with interest the progress made in the county for many years, changing from a wilderness to a well-cultivated country, with fine farms and thriving villages. He was an industrious, hard-working farmer, living on the old farm till infirmed by age, when, November 10, 1885, he moved to Mulberry, where he now reside?. By his persevering industry he acquired a competency, and is now the owner of 260 acres of well-improved land, beside property in Mulberry. He hag lived an upright life, and by his fair and honorable dealings gained the confidence of all who knew him. He joined the church at the age of fifteen, is now a member of the Lutheran Eeform church at Fair Haven. His wife is a member of the same church.

George "W. Ewing, farmer, living on the southwest quarter of section 23, Ross Township, is a son of John and Mary (Smith) Ewing. He was born on a farm one mile east of Rossville, December 22, 1835, where he was reared and educated, by attending the district schools. He worked on the home farm for his father most of the time till his marriage, which occurred April 1, 1858, to Miss Emma Price, a daughter of Hiram and Sarah (Campbell) Price. She was born in Ross Township, Clinton County, Indiana, February 9, 1838, going with her parents to Cass County when she was ten years old, where she grew to womanhood. Mr. and Mrs. Ewing have had ten children, of whom eight are still living - Mary E., John P., William, Albert, Kelly, Chase, Norton and Thomas. Sarah Jane and Efiie Ann both died in 1868,dariiig the same week. In his political views Mr. Ewing affiliates with the Republican party. Mrs. Ewing's parents died in Cass County; Indiana, the mother dying in May, 1856, and the father in August of the same year. Her father was a nativeof Maryland, and her mother was born in Butler County, Ohio. They were the parents of the following children - Minerva, now Mrs. S. Love; William; Robert C; Susan E., wife of Albert Hornbaker; Ellen, wife of L. D. Chisholm;

Fkancis M. Gable, a farmer and carpenter living in Koss Township on section 4, is a native of Pennsylvania, born August 27, 1845, ason of Tobias and Hannah (Leibenguth) Gable, who were also natives of Pennsylvania, the father born iuBucks County, and the mother in Northampton County. He was reared and educated in the common schools of his native State, and there partly learned the carpenter's trade. He was employed in the Lehigh Valley Car Factory for two years at Mancli Chunk, and for three months was in the employ of the Lehigh Coal and Navigation Company, and for a short time worked for t!te Lehigh & Susquehannah Railroad Company. He loft Pennsylvania in 1865, when he came to Indiana, and followed the carpenter's trade at La Fayette and surrounding country for seven years. He then began farming, and two years later bought the Daniel Neher farm, containing seventy acres of land, and located in Ross Township, where he has since made his home. Mr. Gable was married in May, 1871, to Mary E. Bryan, of Ross Township, but a native of Ohio, a daughter of Simeon and Emily (Slipher) Bryan. They have eight children - Perry F., Laura A., Jeremiah M., Calvin T., Elmer N., Mary J., Charles F. and Joseph M. Mr. and Mrs. Gable are members of the Lutheran denomination. Mr. Gable being secretary of his church. In politics he affiliates with the Democratic party. Our subject's parents were married in 1841, and reared a family of five children - W. J., a farmer and blacksmith of Ross Township; Francis M., our subject; John J., living in Pennsylvania, engaged in teaching school; Maria M., wife of Joseph H. Steckle, of Tippecanoe County, and Robert W., living in Madison Township, this county. The father came to Clinton County, Indiana, in 1868, when he bought ninety acres of land, wiiere he has since resided. He is now sixty-seven years of age, and is in feeble health.

Frederick Geiger was born in Wittemberg, Germany, March 6, 1828. His father was a stage driver in the old country and when a young man was married. Thinking Germany was not the place for a poor man he, in 1831, took his wife and two children and started for America. The youngest died on shipboard and was buried at sea. They were ninety-three days making the trip across the water, and instead of landing at New York as they intended the vessel was driven off by adverse winds and landed at Philadelphia. An older brother of the father had come to America several years before and had located in Pennsylvania, but as be lost his address was never able to find him. They lived in York County, Peimsylvanii, two or three years and then moved to Butler County, Ohio, and rented a farm near a grist-mill where Frederick learned the miller's trade. In 1844 the family moved to Tippeeauoe County, Indl ma, where the parents both died. Frederick commenced the battle of life when fourteen years of age and in 1814, when the fam'ly moved to Tippecanoe County, had $62, which was of great assistance to his father. He lived in the latter county several years and then moved to Clinton County. He now has charge of the Geiger Mills, owned by his son, Frank K. These mills were built in 1868 and are situated oa Middle Fork of "Wild Cat Creek. Mr. Geiger was married iu 18S1 to Miss Rachel McCombs, who was born in Eastern Indiana in 1827. They have had four children, of whom three are living - Frank J., William Frederick and Mary Elizabeth. John died at the age of eleven months. In politics Mr. Geiger is a Republican. He is a member of the Lutheran and his wife of the Methodist Episcopal clinrch.

Fkancis Hamilton, residing on section 7, Ross Township, Clinton County, was born in Butler County, Ohio, in September, 1839. When about three years of age he came with his parents, John and Eunice (Drake) Hamilton, to Clinton County, Indiana, where he lived with them till his twentv-fiftii year. He was married November 8, 1864, to Mi^s Mary Bell, her parents, James and Jane Bell, being residents of Clinton County. Four children have been born to this union - Orlando, born August 15, 1865, died aged eleven months; Eunice B., born October 8, 1867; John N. and James M. (twins), born December 31, 1872. Mr. Hamilton is classed among the prosperous and enterprising farmers of Clinton County, having through his industry and good management been successful in his agricultural pursuits. In politics he casts his vote for the Democratic party. Both he and his wife and daughter are members of the Presbyterian church at Pleasant Hill, Ross Township. John Hamilton, father of our subject, was born in Ohio, February 11, 1807. For his first wife he married' Miss Jane Clark, with whom he came to Clinton County, Indiana, in 1832, when he entered 160 acres of land in Ross Township, which was entirely unimproved. His wife having died shortly after coming here he returned to Ohio, where he followed farming. In 1838 he married Miss Eunice Drake, of Ohio. This union was blessed with one child, the subject of this sketch .

Although Mr. Hamilton had bat one child he reared and cared for other children who found a good home with him. After the death of his second wife he married her sister, Ehoda Drake, September 7, 1874. He came to Indiana almost entirely without capital, but by a life of industry and persevei'ing energy he accumulated a good share of this world's goods. He was an active and enterprising citizen of Ross Township, which he served as justice of the peace for two years. He took an active interest in matters pertaining to the advancement of the county, and cotitributed $400 toward the construction of the Lake Erie & Western Hailroad. He held stock to the amount of $150 in the Dayton & Mulberry gravel road. His death occurred in Ross Township, February 28, 1884. He was a member of the Old School Baptist church.

Andrew Jackson Harland, a farmer of Oweu Township, residing on section 3, is a native of Kentucky, born in Monroe County, near the Cumberland Mountains, January 8,1829, a son of Joel W. and Mary (Mulkey) Harland, natives of Kentucky, the father born in 1794, of Irish descent, and the mother born in Monroe County, of Scotch and German ancestry. They were married in Kentucky about 1817, and in March, 1831, they came with tlieir family, which then consisted of six children, to Clinton County, Indiana, where the father followed his trade, that of a carpenter, till his death, which occurred in 1849. His wife shared with him the trials and hardships as well as the pleasures of pioneer life till his death. She died July 29, 1875. They had a family of ten children - John M., living in Joplin, Missouri; James M. was a Captain in Company I, One Hundredth Indiana Infantry, during the late war, and was killed at the battle of Missionary Ridge; Hannah, deceased wife of Baker Miner, who is also deceased; Elizabeth, wife of S. T. Mills, of Kokomo; Hester, deceased wife of Robert Breckenridge; Andrew J., the subject of this sketch; Isaac N., deceased; Jemima, wife of Dr. S. H. Fawcett, of Blair, Nebraska, and William F. and Joel W., both living in Clinton County. In politics the father was a Democrat. He was the third sheriff elected in Clinton County, and was re-elected to the same office to serve a second term, but died before his term expired. A. J. Harland, the subject of this sketch, remained at home till ten years of age when his father died, after which he lived with Ephraim Catterlin on a farm near Frankfort, Indiana, for three years. He then returned home and assisted his elder brother to support his widowed mother for two years, when his mother induced him to learn the trade of carding, fulling and cloth dressing, with S. T, Hoops, but in a year the agreement was virtually broken by both parties. He then entered the employ of N. L. Northup & Co., of Thorntown, Indiana, wha were engaged in the same business, remaining with this firm for three years. In 1850 he came to Owen Township, Clinton County, and for one year was in the employ of Kramer & Harland, sawyers and lumber dealers. He then went to Colfax and in connection with his brother James operated a saw-mill at that place for five years, when he sold his interest there and bought a mill three miles east of Frankfort, which he ran for nine years. He then sold his mill and moved to a farm in Jackson, now Center Township, this county, he having owned this farm for some years previous. It was entirely unimproved when he settled there, but with a stout heart he went to work and felled the trees and built a hewed-log house for his family, and began to improve his land. Here he continued to live and toil for thirteen years, when he sold out in 1878 and went to Iowa. A year later he returned to Owen Township, where he bought eighty acres of land on section 3, from Robert Moore, where he has since followed agricultural pursuits. November 17, 1854, he was married in Colfax, Clinton County, to Miss Siren Parvis, who was born near Stockwell, in Tippecanoe County, Indiana, April 4, 1833, a daughter of Guessford and Mary Parvis. This union was blessed with ten children - James W., Rhoda (deceased), Elmer A. (deceased), Guessford, Anna, Clinton, "William, MoUie and Kate. Both Mr. and Mrs. Harland are members of the Christian church at Avery, this county. In politics he aflSliates with the Democratic party.

John Morris Hays, son of John Schooly and Margaret (Parcel) Hays, is a resident of Ross Township, Clinton County, living on section 7. He is a native of Clinton County, Indiana, born June 27, 1844, in Ross Township. When he was two years of age his parents removed to Owen Township, and there he was reared to agricultural pursuits which has been his principal vocation through life. June 22, 1872, he was married to Mary A. Kinder, who was born October 30, 1853, a daughter of Thomas Kinder, of Ross Township. Six children have been born to this union - Rose E., born July 8, 1873, died June 28, 1885; Gerthie B., born December 27, 1875; Newton C, born February 14, 1878; Ruth J., born July 30, 1879; Mary O. and Flossie. In 1883 Mr. Hays removed to Ross Township and bought forty acres of land, twenty acres being partially improved. He has since cleared and improved fifteen acres more, and built a good residence and a fine barn. He was a soldier in the Union army, enlisting September 11, 1864, in Company G, Thirtieth Indiana Infantry, and was discharged August 19, 1865, at Green Lake, Texas, and while in the service partiaipated in the battles of Franklin and Nashville, Tennessee. Politically he is a Democrat. He is a member of Owen Grange in Owen Township. Both he and his wife are members of the Presbyterian church.

John Schooly Hats, section 7, Ross Township, was born in Butler County, Ohio, September 19, 1815, of English and Irish origin, a son of Joseph and Hannah (Ball) Hays. He came with his parents to Ross Township, Clinton County, Indiana, October 7, 1832, living witli them till twenty-one years of age. He then learned the carpenter's trade which he followed two years in and near Jefferson, after which he was employed as miller in the Anderson (now Heavilon) Mill, where he remained three years. He then followed farming and carpentering some two years, when he rented the mill in which he was formerly employed which he operated for three years. He was married in Jefferson, Clinton County, January 7, 1838, to Margaret Parcel, who was born November 21, 1816, in Butler County, Ohio, of English descent. Ten children have been boi'n to this union - William S. and Martlia E. (twins), both deceased; Hannah J. and Mary E. (twins), the former married W. H. Miller and lives in Indian Territory, and the latter is deceased; Philip and John M. (twins); Lucinda C, wife of James A. Campbell, a grain merchant at Frankfort; Sarah, deceased; Josephine M., deceased wife of W. A. Bosworth, and Phoebe E., deceased. In August, 1846, Mr. Hays bought forty acres of State school land in Owen Township, which he improved, remaining there till 1872, and during this time he added to his original purchase ninety-three acres adjoining. Shortly afterward he sold ninety acres of his land to Andrew Bosworth, and the rest of his land he sold to Rachel Padix. He then bought property in Frankfort but preferring the country he soon disposed of his town property and bought twenty acres of unimproved land in Ross Township where he has since resided. He is comfortably settled in life, having a neat residence, a good barn, and his land well improved. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity. His father, Joseph H., was born in New Jersey, April 17, 1782, and was by occupation a farmer. J^^e removed to Washington County, Pennsylvania, in 1792, and in 1805 immigrated to Butler County, Ohio, where he followed farming till 1832. He was married in 1808 to Hannah Ball, who was born in Essex County, New Jersey, February 22, 1788, going with her parents to Butler County, Ohio, in 1800. To this union were born twelve children - Mary married Joseph Kershner, both of whom are deceased; Phoebe, a resident of Center Township, has been three times married, her last husband being Samuel Merrill, who is deceased; Thomas and William, both deceased; John S., our subject; Eleanor married Andrew Miller, both now deceased; Hannah J. married John Miller, both now deceased; Eunice, deceased wife of W. A. Sims; Asie died in infancy; Ezekiel lives in "Wisconsin; Sarah, wife of Abraham Beard, lives in Wisconsin; and Samuel lives in Illinois. The parents of our subject came to Clinton County in 1832. In 1850 they removed to Richland County, Wisconsin, where the mother died February 22, 1858. She was a member of the Presbyterian church. The father returned to Ross Township, this county, in 1865, and made his home with our subject till his death, which occurred November 23 of the same year, in his eighty-fourth year. John S., our subject, is a member of Sedalia Lodge, No. 508, A. F. & A. M. In politics he is a Democrat. He served as clerk of the Board of Trustees in the early history of the county. His wife is a member of the United Brethren church.

Daniel Kreisher, senior member of the firm of Kreisher & Smith, proprietors of the grist-mill at Rossville, was born in Clinton County, Ohio, in 1817, a son of Henry and Mary B. (Hudson) Kreisher, the father born in Reading, Pennsylvania, in 1815, and the mother a native of Maryland, born in 1817. The father learned the miller's trade in his native State, and followed the vocation of a miller till his death in March, 1881. While living on a farm he still carried on a mill, the duties of the farm devolving upon his sons. The mother of our subject is still living on the old farm near Frankfort. Our subject was a mere lad when his parents came to Clinton County with their family of six children - George, now deceased; Henry S.; William, now deceased; Benson H.; Eliza Jane, deceased; and Daniel; and the following children were born to the parents after coming to this county - Martin L., Mary B., Henrietta, Benjamin D., Sarah E., and Cora E., of whom Cora is deceased. A few months after coming to this county the father bought a new farm of heavily timbered land where he made a home for his family, living there till 1867, when they bought a mill known as the Kemp Mill, located two miles northwest of Frankfort, which the father and sons operated until 1880, wlien they built the Allen Mill. Tl)ey then commenced building the Allen Mill, but the father dying before it was completed, the sons were unable to finish it when they sold out to Allen Brothers, of Frankfort, and returned to their old mill near Frankfort, remaining there till the fall of 1882, when they removed their stock of machinery to Eossville. Mr. Kreisher, the subject of this sketch, has lived in this county, with the exception of a few months spent at Deer Creek, since coming here with his parents, his education being received in the common schools of the county. He was married in February, 1871, to Miss Rebecca M. Neidlinger, who was born near AUentown, Pennsylvania, in 1850. To this union have been born five children - Madison H., George W. (died aged about thirteen months), Abbie M., Jennie L., and Daniel. Mr. Kreisher built his first mill at Rossville, in 1882, which he operated tinder the firm name of Kreisher & Syders till it was burned down, October 15, 1883, when, beside losing the insurance, they lost onethird ot the original cost of the mill. The following winter they commenced re-building the mill, which was ready for opera iou ia May, 1885, when it re-opened under the firm name of Kreisher & Smith, Daniel Kreisher and George A. Smith being sole proprietors. Their mill is one of the best in the county, well supplied with all the latest improved machinery, and has a five-set; double roller mill. Their capacity is three barrels per hour when wheat is dry, and their flour is always of an excellent quality. Like his father Mr. Kreisher is a Democrat, and like him he is in his religious views a Lutheran. He is now serving as trustee of Rossville, having been elected to that ofiBce in the spring of 1884, and re-elected in the spring of 1886. Mr. Kreisher was a soldier in the war of the Rebellion, enlisting in December, 1862, in Company K, Seventy-second Indiana Infantry. They rendezvoused at Indianapolis, going from there to the field. Mr. Kreisher was in the celebrated Wilder's brigade, and was never away from his regiment till his discbarge at Indianapolis in September, 1865, except for two months when he was in the hospital at Columbia.

Aakon Latshaw, section 31, Ross Township, was born in Pennsylvania, October 17, 1844, a son of Isaac and Barbara (Bricker) Latshaw, who were both natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. Our subject was nine years of age when he came with his parents to Clinton County, Indiana, his father then buying the farm in Koss Township where Aaron now lives, he liaving bought it from the heirs after his father's death. Here he has followed agricultural pursuits, living on the same farm since coming here with the exception of twelve years. Mr. Latshaw was married in November, 1868, to Miss Susan Shaw, of Ross Township, Clinton County, a daughter of John F. and Hetty Shaw, both of whom are deceased. They have three children - Hetty B. ; Barbara A. and Moliie 0. In politics Mr. Latshaw is a Republican. His father, Isaac Latshaw, received but a common-school education in his youth but being a constant reader he became well informed on general topics, and in an argument on theological subjects would invariably carry his point. He was married in Pennsylvania in 1841 to Barbara Bricker, and to them were born eleven children - Samuel; Aaron, our subject; Stephen; Elizabeth, wife of Isaac Hufford, of Michigan; Barbara, deceased; Michael; John, living in Michigan ; Jeremiah; Mary, wife of John Demuth, living in Pennsylvania; William and Jesse. Isaac Latshaw came with his family to Clinton County, Indiana, in 1854, and bought 134 acres of land in Ross Township from George Majors, for which he paid $25 per acre. He improved the land and erected a fine house and good barn, the land as before stated being now owned by our subject, and is one of the best farms in Ross Township. Here the father followed the nursery business from 1868 till his death. He was a member of the German Baptist church till within the last few years of his life when he united with the Brethren denomination. The mother of our subject also died in Ross Township, Clinton County.

John Major. - The history of the Major family in America commences previous to the war of independence. Two brothers, William and John Major, with their families emigrated from Ireland, and settled in the eastern part of Pennsylvania. Of the family of John Major the writer knows nothing. William Major reared two sons and two daughters - Henry, Thomas, Rebecca and Elizabeth. Henry died single. Thomas married Mary Luterton. They had three children, two sons and one daughter - Andrew, James and Margaret; all are now dead. Mary, the mother of these children, also died, after which Thomas moved to Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, not far from Pittsburg and married for his second wife Catharine Green. They had nine children, four sons and five daughters - John, Josiah, Elias, George, Mary, Elenor, Elizabeth, Rebecca and Clarrissa. Thomas Major shortly after the war of

1812, in 1816, moved from Pennsylvania to Hamilton County, Ohio, where by hard work and many privations he reared his large family. November 13, 1831, he moved from Ohio to Indiana and settled in the northern part of Clinton County, near what is now the town of Kossville. He cleared a farm out of the green woods, saw liis family grown up, and died September S, 1843, at the age of seventy-seven years. His wife survived him a few years and died at the age of seventy -four years. John Major was born May 4, 1803, and lived with his parents till the age of twenty-five years. He married Jane Carrick in March, 1828, by whom he had nine children, three of whom died in infanc}^ Tlie names of those who survived are - "William C, Thomas, Calvin C, Elizabeth S., Catharine and Martha. He moved from Ohio in 1833 to Indiana and settled in Clinton County, near Eossville, where he cleared a farm. His prospects seemed to be encouraging when he was called upon to part by death with the wife of his youth, who died September 27, 1849. He subsequently married Mrs. Anna Thompson, by whom he had two children - Eliza and Josepli C. He sold liis farm in Ross Township in 1852 and bought on Twelve-Mile Prairie, where he lived but a short time when he was called upon to bury his eldest daughter, Elizabeth. He again sold his farm in 1864 and bought a farm in Boone County, uear Thorntown, lived on it twenty-one years, when he sold and bought in Thorntown where he now lives, being in his eighty-fourth year.

Thomas W. Masters, of Ross Township, was born in Franklin County, Indiana, June 25, 1838, a son of John and Susan (HHrris) Masters, natives of Pennsylvania, the father born in July, 1805, of German ancestry, and the mother born in the year 1807. They were married in 1828, and to them have been born eight children, all of whom are living - Mary, wife of R. R. S|)encer, a farmer of Rush County; Jacob, a grain and lumber merchant of Brookville, Indiana; John Q., afarmer of Owen Township; Jane, wife of John W. Chaney, a farmer of Owen Township; Thomas "W., the subject of this sketch; William C, engaged in farming in Fayette County, Indiana; Samuel B., a blacksmith living in Brookville, and Levi K., a farmer of Franklin County. The parents are still living, being residents of Franklin County, the father now eighty-two years of age. He was by occupation a blacksmith, which he followed successfully for many years. Thomas W. Masters, whose name heads this sketch, was reared to agricultural pursuits in his native county, remaining there till September, 1861, when he en- listed in the tJnion army in the Second Indiana Cavalry to serve three years or during the war. He participated in the battles of Shiloli, Resaca, Corinth, Chickamauga, and through the Atlanta campaign, and in the battle of Perryville. He received his discharge at Indianapolis, October 4, 1864, after serving in the defense of his country over three years. On returning home he engaged in farming which he has since followed. He was married in January, 1865, in Franklin County, to Miss Susannah Hayward a daughter of Joseph Hayward, who is now deceased. Mrs. Hayward, mother of Mrs. Masters still lives in Franklin County. Mr. Masters came to Kossville, Clinton County, in March, 1865, buying 160 acres adjoining the town where he still lives, but has since disposed of abuut fifty acres. He has erected a fine residenceon his place, which is both comfortable and commodious, and has made other substantial improvements, and has now one of the finest places in his neighborhood. He subsequently bought twenty acres of land from Alfred Snyder. He is an enterprising farmer and a public-spirited citizen, being respected by all who know him. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. He is a comrade of Rossville Post, No. 53, G. A. E. In politics he is a Republican. In the spring of 1884 he was elected trustee of Ross Township, which office he filled satisfactorily for two years.

John B. Metzger, a farmer and stock-raiser, residing on section 33, Ross Township, was born in Montgomery County. Ohio, April 19, 1850, a son of Samuel S. and Lizza (Bowers) Metzger, the father a native of Ohio, born in 1828, and the mother, born in Rockingham County, Virginia, in 1831. They were married near Dayton, Ohio, in 1849, and to them were born three children - Jacob B., the subject of this sketch; Aaron C M., living in Madison Township, and Levi H. M., in Ross Township. They came with their family to Clinton County, Indiana, in 1859, and settled on the farm in Ross Township where the parents still reside. Jacob Metzger was about nine years old when he accompanied his parents to Clinton Cuunty, and his education was received at the common schools uf the county. He was reared a farmer and has always followed agricultural pursuits, and has now a good farm located near his father's old homestead in Ross Township. Mr. Metzger was united in marriage near Rossville, January 31, 1869, to Miss Esther Metzger, who was born January 16, 1852, a daughter of Samuel and Hannah (Shively) Metzger, both of whom died in Clin- ton County. To this union were born five children - Emanuel E., born October 27, 1869, is attending Ashland College, at Ashland, Ohio; Irvin I., born September 21, 1873; Vernon, born September 9, 1879; Artus, born April 9, 1881, and Daisy J., born January 17, 1884. In their religious faith Mr. and Mrs. Metzger believe in the doctrines of the United Brethren denomination.

Elizabeth (Metzger) Neher, a resident of Ross Township, living on section 33, was born in Montgomery County, Oliio, November 21, 1844, and was reared and educated in her native State. At the age of sixteen years she came with her father's family to Clinton County, they locating in Ross Township, where she was married November 23, 1862, to Joseph D. Neher, who was born and leared in Ross Township, the date of his birth being September 20, 1840. He was by occupation a farmer and carpenter, although the last five years of his life were devoted to the ministerial work oi' the German Baptist church. His life was one of success, and at his death left the home farm containing 100 acres of land, beside other property. According to his will his real and personal property is for his widow during her life, and at her deatii to descend to their children. He attended the common schools of the county in his youth, receiving such education as they afforded, but in afterlife, by diligence and self study, he became a well-informed man, and had in his library a collection of the very best books published. Mr. Neher affiliated with no political party and never cast a vote in his life. He died October 2, 1883, his death being a source of universal regret throughout the county. He was a kind and affectionate husband and father, a good neighbor, and an honorable and upright citizen. He was always ready to assist those in need, and comfort those in affliction, and was always ready to help in any enterprise which he deemed for the benefit of his people, church or county. To Mr. and Mrs. Neher were born ten children - Susan (wife of Albert Stewart, living near La Fayette); Samuel S., Amos A., Levi L., Anna, Ida, Lucy (died September 4, 1877, aged eighteen months), Ezra, Louisa and Catherine. Daniel Neher, fatber of Joseph D. Neher, was born in Rockingham County, Virginia, in 1813. When a young man he came to Clinton County, Indiana, where he married Mary Metzger and to this union were born five children. In 1871 he removed to Marion County, Illinois, where he resided till his death. He united with the German Baptist church when a boy and for thirty-five years was a minister of that denomination, and preached his last sermon February 6, 1881. His sons became ministers of the same denomination. Mrs. Neher's parents, Samuel and Hannah (Shively) Metzger, were natives of Ohio, of German descent. They were married in 1836, and were the parents of seven children - Elizabeth, whose name heads this sketch; John S., deceased; Susan; Esther, wife of Jacob B. Metzger; Catherine, wife of Aaron Metzger; Mary, wife of William Beydler, and Anna, wife of William Metzger. They came to Clinton County, Indiana, in 1860 and settled in Ross Township, where both died, the father in December, 1880, and the mother January 4, 1872. They were members of the German Baptist denomination.

H. C. Perkin, farmer and stock-raiser, section 21, Ross Township, was born in Belford County, Virginia, January 25, 1816, a 8on of Solomon and Sarah (Botts) Perrin, his father a native of Connecticut, and his mother of Botetourt County, Virginia. His father died of cholera in New Orleans in 1833, and his mother in her native county in Virginia. In the spring of 1845 our subject went to Kentucky and lived in Bracken County a few mouths, when in July of the same year he came to Clinton County, Indiana, being persuaded to change his location by his brother William. He first settled near the Oxford church, renting land with his brother a year and then went to Rossville, and with his brother and John Ryhan ran a tobacco factory three years. This not proving profitable he bought eighty acres of land on section 29, Ross Township, and afterward added thirty acres, joining it on the east. He lived there ten years, when he sold his farm to Samuel Weeks and bought the one where he now lives. One hundred and twenty acres had been cleared and a story and a half log house and a log barn had been built. The house had been weather boarded and was comfortable and he made it his home until it was burned in 1861. He immediately went to work to build and erected a part of his present residence and has since added the upright part. He removed his log barn and now has one of the finest in the township. It is sixty feet square, with underground stable. His cow stable is 13 x 50 feet; horse stable, 18 x 50 feet; feed room, 9 x 50 feet, and wagon shed, 17 x 50 feet, and his storage room has the capacity for holding 1,300 bushels of wheat in the straw. He feeds from six to eight car-loads of hogs a year. He raises about 1,500 bushels of corn a year and 1,000 bushels of wheat, and in addition to this buys considerable corn for his stock. Mr. Perrin was married September 23, 1844, to Susan

Secrist, who was born ia Botetourt County, Virginia, November 23, 1818, a daughter of David and Mary (Flory) Secrist, her father a native of Pennsylvania and her mother of Virginia. They have had a family of seven children - Eliza, born September 23, 1844, is the wite of James Coulter; Byron A., born January, 1847, died July 9,1848; Charles, born September 23, 1848, died May 24, 1863; Mary J., born February 23, 1850, is the widow of Samuel Hurlej', who was killed at Danville, Illinois, in 1882; Sarah M., born May 7, 1854, is the wife of Milton Hoffman; Harriet E., born August 15, 1855, is the wife of Isaac Herlocker; Emnia, born May 10, 1859, is the wife of Amos Taylor. Politically Mr. Perrin is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian church.

Geoege Smith, of Rossville, retired member of the mercantile firm of Smith, White & Smith, was born in Rossville, Clinton County, Indiana, January 17, 1848, a son of John H. and Ann Smith. He was educated at the graded school at Rossville, and by diligence and private study he received a good knowledge of the common branches. He lived with his parents till twenty-three years of age when he began life on his own account, going to Newton County, were he engaged in farming on the old home farm. He was subsequently employed in his brotlier's store as clerk for six months, and in February, 1874, he became associated in the drygoods business with his brother, H. L. Smith, which partnership continued for three years. He then formed a partnership with his younger brother, John A. Smith, with whom he carried on business for six years under the firm name of George Smith & Brother, when H. L. Smith was admitted to the firm, the name being then changed to Smith Brothers. Shortly afterward the younger brother retired from the business when M. B. "White was admitted, the business then being conducted under the firm name of Smith, White & Smith for three years, when George Smith retired. He then purchased the entire hardware stock of the firm which he sold to C. M. Shagley a few months later. Mr. Smith was married May 3, 1877, to Nora Rose, a daughter of Rev. Uriah Rose, wlio died in December, 1885. Her mother is still living, making her home in Frankfort. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have three children - Ralph J., born April 29, 1878; George Adrian, born September 29, 1880, and Frank E., born April 6, 1883. In his political views Mr. Smith is a Democrat. In 1880 he was elected trustee of Ross Township and re-elected to the same office in 1882 without opposi- tioa. In the Democratic Primary County Convention, April 17, 1886, he was nominated by his party for county auditor, receiving a majority of forty-eight votes. Mr. Smith is a member of Carroll Lodge, No. 183, 1. O. O. F., and has passed the degrees of the subordinate lodge. Mrs. Smith is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church at Kossville.

Henry Lucas Smith, senior member of the mercantile firm of Smith & "White, of Kossville, was born in Rossville, this county, May 12, 1842, where he was reared and educated in the common schools. His parents, John K. and Ann (Dehnen) Smith, were both natives of Germany, and among the pioneers of Clinton County, Indiana. They came to this county and settled in Rossville in 1835, where the father followed the saddler's and harness maker's trade until 1854. He then followed farming near Kossville till 1865, when he removed to Newton County, Indiana, remaining there till his death. Henry L. Smith, our subject, began clerking in a store in Kossville at the age of eighteen years. In May, 1861, he enlisted as a private in Company D, Fifteenth Indiana, to serve three years. He was discharged at Indianapolis June 25, 1864, at the expiration of his term of service. He participated in the battles of Kich Mountain, Green Brier, Stone Kiver, Shiloli and Perryville and Missionary Kidge. He was wounded in the right leg at the last-mentioned battle, being struck by a piece of shell, on account of which he was off duty from November 24r, 1863, until the following March, spending his time at home on a furlough. He then rei'oined his regiment at Loudon, Tennessee, and was detailed as Orderly to General George D. Wagner, serving as such until he was discharged. On his return from the army he engaged in farming in Newton County, Indiana, which he followed till the fall of 1865, when he was employed as clerk in the store of A. J. Kent at Kentland, Indiana, until the fall of 1867, when he came to Kossville. He was married December 15, 1868, near Kossville, to Mary S. Kose, a daughter of Kev. Uriah Kose, late of Frankfort. They have six children - W. Dale, Inez, Ettie, Grace, May and Kaymond. Mr. Smith has been engaged in the mercantile business since coming to Kossville, being first associated with J. Q. Masters under the firm name of Masters & Smith. In 1874 they engaged in the lumber business at La Fayette, at the the same time carrying on the same business at Rossville. In October, 1875, he discontinued the business at La Fayette, and has since followed mer- cantile pursuits at Rossville, forming a partnership with liis brothers John and George, the firm name being known as Smith Brothers. In 1883 he became associated with W. B. White, tlius forming the present firm of Smith & White. In connection with his mercantile pursuits Mr. Smith is engaged in farming and raising and dealing in short-horn cattle, having a fine farm of 276 acres adjoining the village of Rossville. Mr. Smith is a Master and Eoyal Arch Mason, being a member of the lodge at Rossville and the chapter at Frankfort, and is a member of Rossville Lodge, No. 183, I. O. O. F., of which he is serving his second term as noble grand. He is also a comrade of Rossville Post, No. 390, G. A. R. , of which he is quartermaster. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Melville Bkteridge White, a member of the mercantile firm of Smith & White, of Rossville was born in Blooming Grove, Franklin County, Indiana, December 9, 18i4. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company G, Sixty-eighth Indiana Infantry, for three years or during the war. Wliile being conveyed with others from Indianapolis to Nashville, Tennessee, where they were to be assigned to their divisions, tliey were captured by the enemy at Munfordville, Koiitucky, but were immediately paroled and sent back to Indianapolis, where they were held till tiie following spring. In February, 1863, he was discharged on account of disability when he returned home, and in the fall of the same year he entered the employ of M. B. and M. C. Gordon, of Metamora, Franklin County, remaining there till March, 1864, when having regained his health he re-enlisted in Company G, Thirteenth Indiana Infantry. In the summer of 1864 he participated with his regiment in the battles of Petersburg, Richmond, Cold Harbor, and in other engagements between Richmond and Petersburg. In these engagements the regiment was so badly cut to pieces that when reorganized there were only enough men to form three companies, A, B, and C, Mr. White being then transferred to Company B, of which he was made First Corporal in the spring of 1865. In December, 1864, they moved to Fort Fisiier, North Carolit)a, under General Butler, where they were under fire a short time. Tliey then went to Virginia, but three days later returned to Fort Fisher under General Terry, and captured the fort, remaining there some three weeks. They then went to Wilmington, which place was surrendered to them. In April, 1865, they went to Raleigh where the sad news of Lincoln's assassination reached them. In July they were sent to

Goldsboro to garrison that point, remaining there till September 5, when they were mustered out by special order 154. After returning home in September, 1865, he worked as a farm hand for two years. In 1868 he began clerking in the store of T. I. Powers, of Blooming Grove, Indiana, where he remained three years. In the fall of 1872 he came to Rossville, Clinton County, where he clerked three years for the lirm of Masters & Smith. He then engaged in the mercantile business on his own account, which he followed alone till 1882, when he became associated witli Smith Brothers, under the firm name of Smith, White & Smith. In the fall of 1885 the junior member of the firm retired, when the firm name was changed to Smith & White. Mr. White was married at Brookville, Franklin County, June 4, 1874, to Emma C. McClure, a native of that county, and daughter of William and Rebecca McClure, of whom her father is now deceased. Her mother still lives in Brookville. Mr. and Mrs. White have two children - Oakley M. and Zula R., both at home. Mr. and Mrs. White are members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Rossville. He is a member of the Odd Fellows' order, belonging to Rossville Lodge, No. 183, and is a comrade of Rossville Post, iSTo. 390, G. A. R. Mr. White's father, Alexander White, was born in Blooming Grove, Franklin County, Indiana, in 1816. He was formerly a merchant tailor, but in later life turned his attention to farming, which he has since followed. He has been four times married, taking for his first wife Nancy A. Templeton, by whom he had eight children - Edgar T. ; Melville B., our subject; Robert, deceased; Mary, wife of Samuel Anderson; Sarah, wife of Willis Parrott; Anna, deceased, and two who died in infancy. Our subject's mother died in 1860, and in 1862 his father married Martha Newman, and to this union were born four children - Ella, wife of Howard Naylor; Laura, deceased; Minnie, wife of William Starr, and William L. After the death of his second wife he married Elizabeth Stant, who died a few months after her marriage. His present wife was Catherine Pierson, of Blooming Grove, where they still make their home.

Chapter Xxyiii

Geookaphical Description. - Eaelt Settlement. - Subsequent Arrivals. - First Events. - Population. - Political Records. - Agricultural Statistics. - Yaluation and Taxation, 1845 AND 1886. - Pickaed's Mills Village. - Biographical.

Sugar Creek is the smallest township in the county, and lies in the extreme southeastern part. It is bounded on the north by Johnson Township, on the east by Tipton and Hamilton counties, on the south by Boone County, and on the west by Kirklin Township. It contains only twenty-six sections, and its land is low and level. The soil is a dark rich loam, but owing to its very wet nature the process of cultivation has not advanced as rapidly as in the other townships of the county.

The northern part of the township was included in the bounds of the " Miami Reservation." The Indians holding possession of their claims until 1838, and many remaining even later than this, there was a tendency on the part of the white man, seeking a peaceful habitation on which to dwell, to settle some distance from the home of the haughty red man. For this reason we find those townships in the western part of the county becoming quite populous, while those of the eastern part were yet unbroken forests.

However, at a very early date, about the year 1827, there was found in the person of William Harris the qualities necessary to be possessed by one who took up an abode in the forest. In the prime of lite, bold and tearless, his pulse bounding with life and energy, he trod the deep forest of Sugar Creek with light and bounding footstep, vieing with the Indian in search of wild game.

To Mr. Harris is due the honor of building the first cabin in Sugar Creek Township. This was in the year 1828, and stood on the farm at present belonging to the heirs of John Murphy. For a while Harris made very little attempt at improvements, but gave his time principally to hunting and fishing. (849)

The first man perhaps who entered her borders for the pnrpose of brinojing some of her dense forests into a state of cultivation was A-bner Dunn. He came in the year 1832, and settled on the farm afterward known as the Peter B. Kennedy farm.

For some time no one else was induced to take up their abode in the township. However, in 1835, two worthy men came, who were willing to share the hardships incident to pioneer life. They were William V. McKinney, who settled on the farm where he is still living, and Merrill Cooper, on the land which is now owned by Mr. W. V. McKinney. William V". McKinney is still a resident of the township. He came to the county a young man, with little of this world's goods. He had a good suit of clothes, which he sold to obtain money with which to enter his land. By sterling industry and careful management he has grown to be one of the largest landholders in the township.

During the year 1836 it would seem most likely there would be several enter the township, but, in consulting the most reliable authority, we were unable to learn the names of any.

In 1838 came the following reliable men: John Crawford, who settled on the Beard farm; James Hill, on the land owned by Mr. Smith; James Ward, on the farm belonging to Mr. W. V. McKinney, and John Cooper, on the land now divided among his heirs, Mr. McKinney and Mr. Scott.

Those of 1839 and 1840 were: Leonard Boyer, on the farm where he is still living; John Alexander, where he yet lives; Samuel Boyer, on the Widow Boyer farm; H. Lockridge, on the farm owned by his sisters; Maurice Ray, on the Peter Wiles farm ; James King, on the farm where he is still living; and Eli Dusky, on the land owned by his widow.

After 1840 the township began to be rapidly settled, with so many changes in location that it would be exceedingly difficult to give date and location. Among those who came about that time we name James Snodgrass, Daniel Scott, James, William and John Barnett, Walter Ivans and James Louks.

The first religious meeting in the township was held at John Crawford's, in 1843, by the Methodists. Thomas Spencer and John Crawford were the ministers. A little later the same year a permanent church organization was eflected by the Missionary Baptists.

The year following, the denomination built a hewed-log house, which was the first in the township, on the farm now owned by Mr. Hill. At this place now is a good church, with a congregation numbering about 100. The next church was built by the Methodists, who bnilt a good, substantial house in 1876. Previous to this they met for worship in a school-house.

Nearly all the various religious denominations have been represented at different times in the township. What ie known as the " Hard-Shell Baptist " organized a churcli about 1844, which flourislied for a short time, and then went down.

In 1839 a school-house was built on the Cooper farm, just across the line in Kirklin Township, which was patronized by the citizens of Sugar Creek. This being somewiiat inconvenient, the following year, 1840, a small pole cabin was built on the Ray farm, in which was taught, in the winter of 1840 and 1841, the first school of the township. Soon after this another school-house was built on the John Alexander farm. George Winborough and James Hill were early teachers.

Sugar Creek was formerly a part of Kirklin Township. In 1841, however, her citizens presented a petition to the commissioners asking to be formed into a civil township. This request being granted, a'l election was authorized to be held at Merrill Cooper's, October 16, 1841. Thomas Douglass was appointed to act as in spector. The place of holding elections was afterward changed to the house of W. V. McKinney. The first justice of the peace was John Cooper. Mr. McKinney served next, holding the office nine years, when he resigned.

The school districts were not confined to civil townships at that time. Accordingly, John Hall, John Ferguson and W. V. McKinney acted as trustees for Kirklin and Sugar Creek townships.

The first marriage was that of James Louks to a daughter of John Alexander, about 1837. The marriage ceremony was performed by Malachi Cooper, Baptist minister.

In 1843 John Cooper built a saw-mill, to which was attached a corn-cracker. The next mill was by Ward, Hill & McMannis. This was a saw-mill, but burrs being attached, corn and some wheat was ground.

Population Political

Oreek is usually Democratic, although it sometimes varies from this general rule. In 1884 Cleveland's majority was twenty-three. The following is the result of

Statistics Of Agriculture

The number of acres of wheat sown in Sugar Creek Township for 1886 is 2,996; corn, 4,012; oats, 85; number of acres in timothy, 944; clover, 1,097; wild grass, 921; acres of new land brought under cultivation for 1886, crops, 407; timber land, 3,678.

In 1885 there were 3,951 gallons of sorghum and 70 gallons of maple molasses made. The number of gallons of milk taken from cows was 138,740; pounds of butter made, 39,835; honey, 361.

Valuation And Taxation, 1845

As an interesting matter of record in the history of Sugar Creek Township we give the items of valuation and taxation for 1845: Polls, 46; acres of land, 10,976.20; value of lands, $24,866; value of improvements, $5,668; value of land and improvements, $30,554; value of personal property, $6,161; total valuation of all taxables, $36,715.

is the only village in the township and was laid out by James "Ward m 1844. James Ward opened the first store, Milton Cooper and Dr. Williams were the first physicians, and Robert Boyer was the first blacksmith. A steam saw-mill was built here in 1851, by Ward & Hill. Samuel Mitchell brought the first mail to this place, and Thomas Puckit was the first postmaster.

The number of inhabitants at the present writing (1886) is about 125. Its business men are as follows: McMath & Henkle and A. C. Littleton, general merchants; Robbins & Sons, druggists; Dallas and Theodore Holmes and William Cooper, physicians; Wrii^ht & Son, blacksmiths; John Gildersleeve, wagon-maker; J. Henkle, postmaster.

In 1873 the Methodist Episcopal society built a church at tlie cost of about $1,600. This society is a thing of the past and the building is occupied by the Quakers every other Sabbath, who have quite a large following and the pulpit is supplied by the Rev. Mr. Mills.

J. N. CooPEE, residing on section 24, Sugar Creek Township, is a native of Indiana, born in Rush County, January 15, 1832, a son of John and Jane (King) Cooper. The father was born in Pulaski County, Kentucky, June 26, 1800, and was there married March.. 5, 1820, and there his two eldest children were born. He then came with his family to Rush County, Indiana, where he commenced improving a new farm, living on it some ten years. In 1838 he came to Sugar Creek Township with his family, which then consisted of nine children - William E., Malachi, James M., J. N. (our subject), Polly Ann, Lucinda, Stanley, Angeline and Jane. The family first settled one and a half miles southeast of the farm where our subject now resides, where the father entered 160 acres of land and commenced making a home in the woods. After clearing a small space he built a round-log cabin, which contained but one room, and the following year he added a kitchen to his cabin. When they first came to this county the deer would come within a few rods of their ciibin, and the howling of the wolves was a nightly occurrence. After living in their cabin a few years the father erected a twostory hewed-log house, wliich at that time was one of the best houses in the township. Here in this hoii se the children grew to maturity, and here the parents lived till their death, the father dying December 30, 1851, and the motlier September 19, 1841. Their two youngest children were bora in this county. John N. Cooper, the suliject of this sketcli, remained at lioine till his marriage, wliicli occurred March 2, 1851, to Elizabeth Ward, who was born JanuHry 18, 1832, a daughter of Newton and Sarah (Perkins) Ward. After his marriage Mr. Cooper bonglit his present farm on section 2i, which was then wild timber land. He built a log cabin in the rear of his present cummodious frame residence, in which he lived till 1871, wlien he erected liis present house. In February, 1857, he went with his eldest brother, William E., to California, via the Isthmus of Panama, and stopped a day and a night on the island of Cuba, where they exchanged vessels. They went from New Orleans to San Francisco in twcnty-two days. After raining in California for a short time they commenced farming at $40 a month near Marysville. They reached home in 1858, after remaining in California about sixtoea months, when our subject followed farming on his land in Sugar Creek Township till he enlisted in the late war, August 19, 1862. He served in Company B, Seventy-fifth Indiana Infantry, ab(Hit three years, and was in every battle and skirmish in which his regiment participated. His tirst engagement was at Hoover's Gap, Tennessee, and also took part in the battles of Chickamauga and Missionary Ridge, one of the grandest sights he ever saw. He followed General Sherman to Atlanta, and was with him to the sea, and was at the surrender of GeneralJohnston's army, and in the grand review at Washington. After his discharge in June, 1865, he returned to his farm, where he has since followed agricultural pursuits. He was bereaved by the loss of his wife January 4, 1886. She was a member of the Baptist church. To Mr. and Mrs. Cooper were born three children - James R., born December 17,1851; William E., born October 25, 1853, and Charles Marion, born February 17, 1855, died in early infancy. In politics Mr. Cooper afBliatee with the Republican party. He never sought public office, and although he has been frequently importuned to run for township trustee he would never consent, preferring to devote his entire attention to the duties of his farm. The Cooper family is of English descent, coming from England to America many years ago. Oar subject's grandfather, Malachi Cooper, was an old-fasiiioned Baptist minister. Mr. Cooper's brother, Stanley Cooper, was a soldier in the war of the Rebellion, enlisting ia Company B, Seventy-fifth Indiana Infantry, and was killed at the battle of Chickaraauga.

A. C. Littleton, general merchant, Pickard's Mill, Indiana, was born August 1, 1840, in Sugar Ci'eek Township, a son of James and Amelia (Buffington) Littleton. He was reared on his father's farm and was educated in the old-fashioned log school-house. He remained at home until after the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, and September 10, 1862, enlisted and was assigned to Company E, Fortietli Indiana Infantry. His first battle was at Stone River and the next at Mission Ridge, when he was in General Wagner's brigade and General Sheridan's division. His regiment was then sent to assist General Buruside in East Tennessee. They then went to Chattanooga, where he, with some others, was transferred to the Fifteenth Indiana, and remained with that regiment while those who re-enlisted as veterans returned home on furlough. He was subsequently returned to his old company, and with it started on the Atlanta campaign. They were afterward assigned to General Thomas's command and returned to Nashville, participating in the battles at Franklin and Nashville, which was his last battle. He was discharged June 15 1866, and returned home. He followed agricultural pursuits un-. til 1877, when he became associated with the Smith Brothers, of Frankfort, and established his present business, buying the interest of liis partners in 1879. He is genial and accommodating and is building up a good trade. He was married Septemher 28, 1873, to Mrs. Priscilla Goar, a native of Shelby County, Indiana, born August 26, 1837, a daughter of Gabriel and Mary (Garr) Batterton, and widow of J. M. Goar. She removed with her parents to Tipton County, Indiana, and from there to Sugar Creek Township, Clinton County. Her first husband was a member of Company B, Seventy-fifth Indiana Infantry, and died at Murfreesboro, Tennessee, in February, 1863, leaving two sons - Joseph "W. and Eli J., both of whom are married. To Mr. and Mrs. Littleton was born one son - Thaddeus, bora February 10, 1876, and died December 28, 1878.

James Littleton, deceased, was born in Washington County, Oiiio, September 26, 1799, a son of William and Mary (McBurnej) Littleton, his father a native of Virginia, and his mother of

Ireland, coming to America when a young lady, with her hrother William. In his youth James Littleton began to learn the siiip-carpenter's trade, serving aa apprenticeship of three years with Walter Curtis. When twenty years of age he went to Buffington's Island, Ohio, and was there married, in 1824, to Amelia Buffingtoii, who was born in Meigs County, Ohio, November 18, 1807, a daughter of Joseph and Chloe (Harvey) BufEngton, natives of Maryland, but early settlers of what is now Buffington's Island, which the father owned, entering the land from the Government. Her parents subsequently moved to Louisa County, Iowa, and died there, leaving a large estate. In 1835 Mr. Littleton moved to Indiana and settled in Boone County, and two years later moved to Sugar Creek Township, Clinton County, taking up a tract of Government land on section Z-i. He built a log house for his family. He worked at the carpenter's trade, and in the meantime claimed his land and made a homj for liis fa'nil y. They lived in their log h'luse until 186.5, when a substantial frame residence was built, which is still the home of the mother. Mr. Littleton died September 2, 1867. His family consisted of five children - -Walter C, born August 24, 1825, died January 16, ISiS; Ann M., horn September 9, 1827, is tlie wife of C. W. Cooper; Joseph H., born December 15, 1829, lives in Texas; Magdalena M., born May 11, 1833, died February 5, 1884; A. C, born August 1, 1840. Mr. Littleton was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church.

James F. Louks is one of the oldest citizens of Sugar Creek Township, having come here with his parents, John and Sally Louks, in the fall of 1838, who settled three miles north of his present farm, which is located on section 10. He was married September 23, 1841, to Eliza J. Alexander, this marriage being the first solemnized in Sugar Creek Township. Mrs. Louks was born in Pulaski County, Kentucky, April 9, 1823, where she lived till about seven years of age, when she was brought by her parents, John and Elizabeth (King) Alexander, to Decatur County, Indiana, and in October, 1838, came to Sugar Creek Township, Clinton County. Mrs. Louks's parents were both natives of Pulaski County, Kentucky, and both died in Sugar Creek Township, on the farm where they first settled. Mrs. Louks died April 6, 1886, and is buried beside her parents in Dusky Cemetery. To Mr. and Mrs. Louks were born twelve children - James Franklin, Elizabeth, William Joseph, John, Sally, Nelson M., Lydia A., Martha Jane, Silas N., and three who died in infancy. Mr

Louka's father was born in Dutchess County, New Tork, September 1, 1797, and when a boy went with his parents to Chautauqua County, New York, where he was reared to manhood, and was there married in 1817 to Sally Lennox, who was born in Genesee County, New York, December 25, 1800, but reared in Chautauqua County. Thuy came to Indiana from Chautauqua County, with their family, which consisted of four sons and two daughters, and settled in Decatur County, removing eleven months later, in 1838, to Suo;ar Creek Township, as before stated. He subsequently sold his farm, which adjoined the farm of our subject, and went to Kansas, where he died three months after arriving there, aged seventy-nine years. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, and took part in tlie battle of Quebec. The mother died in Sugar Creek Township, Deceml)er 14, 1851. Both parents were earnest members of the Methodist Episcopal church for many years. The paternal grandparents of our subject, Joseph and Peggy (Maybee) Lonks. were natives of Germany, and on coming to America first made their home in Dutchess County. They removed from that county to Chautanqiia County, where they both died. Our subject's maternal grandparents were Robert and Sally (Fossett) Lennox, the latter being a sister of General Fossett, of the English army. They were born, reared and married in Ireland, and two months after their marriage came to America, and after living a few months in Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania, they removed to Genesee C juiity. New York, where they lived till after their children were born. Tliey subsequently settled in Chautauqua County, where they lived till their death. James F. Louks, oursubject, was one of the committee from Clinton County to distribute funds to the wives wliose husbands were in the service of their country, during the war of the Rebellion. In politics he was formerly an old-time Whig, but now affiliates with the Democratic party. He is a member of the Christian church.

James C. McKinney, a prosperous farmer of Sugar Creek Township, residing on section 2, was born in the township wliere he now lives, the date of his birth being February 28, 1S39. He was reared on the old homestead, and received such education as the district schools of that day afforded. After he reached the age of nineteen years he conimenced working for his father on the home farm for $13 per month, and in this way he bought eighty acres of ttie farm where he still resides, besides saving $100 dollars a year. He has now accumulated about 239 acres of choice land by his own persevering energy and industrious habits. His home farm now contains 160 acres of well-cultivated land, besides which he owns a tract of forty acres on section 3, and about thirty-nine acres on section 11. Mr. McKinney was married in February, 1867, to .Miss Delilah Josephine Ward, who was born in Sugar Creek Township, October 4, 1843, a daughter of James M. and Amanda (Hill) "Ward, her father being a native of Virginia. Mr. and Mrs. Mc- Kinney have five children - Cora, born November 28, 1867; Charles W., born April 7, 1869; Mary L., born August 31, 1871; Dolly H., born December 21, 1872, and Flora M., born April 2, 1875, all born in Sugar Creek Township, and all living at home. Both Mr. and Mrs. McKinney are members of the Baptist church. In politics he is a Republican.

William V. McKinney, Sr., farmer. Sugar Creek Township, lives on section 33, where lie has a fine farm. His land, which consists of about 700 acres, is located on sections 33, 34, 21, 4, 3, 36 and 25. He was born in Pulaski County, Kentucky, October 18, 1813, and when twelve years old his parents moved to Lincoln County. Kentucky. When he was sixteen years old he began learning the blacksmith's trade, and served an apprenticeship of three years. He worked one day after completing his time for 50 cents, and then with $5 in his pocket and his worldly possessions tied up in a cotton iiandkerchief and swung on a stick over his shoulder he started on foot for Rush County, Indiana, his object being to live in a free State where he did not have to compete with slave labor. He worked at his trade three years, and in the meantime had saved $200. He then, in July, 1835, came to Clinton County and entered 120 acres of land in Sugar Creek Township. He built a cabin 16 x 18 feet in dimension, of beech and maple poles, and split poles for the flooring, moving into it the day he was twenty-two years old. He afterward sold his wedding suit which cost him $60, for $40, and sold coon and deer skins amounting to $10, and with tliis bought the rest of his quarter section. He then clothed himself with skins until able to buy clothes. Mr. McKinney was one of the first trustees of Sugar Creek and Kirklin townships, and after their separation served as justice of the peace for Sugar Creek nine years. He was the second settler in the township, Abner Dunn being the first. He had many thrilling experiences with Indians and wild animals, and his narrations of the early days in Clinton County are entertaining and are listened to with delight by any who are fortunate enough to have his ac- quaintance. He was the first blacksmith in the township and in his part of the county, and his services were often in demand. While others hunted to increase their worldly store while improving their land, he worked at his trade, which brought him more than their spoils. Mr. McKinney was married June 29, 1834, to Mary A. Cooper, who was born in Pulaski County, Kentucky, August 25, 1816, and died in Clinton County, Indiana, leaving eight children - George H., born April 15, 1835; Asa, born March 10, 1837, was the first boy born in Sugar Creek Township; James C, born February 28, 1839; Nancy A., born June 30, 1841; Angeliue, born August 3, 1843; William V., born June 3U, 1846; John W., born November 24, 1848, and Henry Clay, born April 8, 1851. January 2, 1857. Mr. McKinney married Mrs. Angelina Low, who was born in Kentucky, July 21, 1829, a daughter of daughters. To them were born eight children - Jesse A. Fremont, born October 29, 1857; Sarah E., born June 29, 1859; Miranda J., born February 21, 1861; Minerva E., born April 29, 1862; Amanda E., born August 25, 1865; Ozra O., born May 26, 18G9, and three that died in early infancy. Mrs. McKinney died in 1870, and August 31, 1871, Mr. McKinney married Mrs. Martha Harrel, who was born November 19, 1829, and to them were born two children - Lewis Milton, born November 16, 1872, and a daughter who died in infancy. In politics Mr. McKinney has afliliated with the Whig and Republican parties. He is a member of no religious denomination, but in belief indorses the faith of the old-school Baptist church. His father, James McKinney, was a native of Virginia, son of Collin McKinney, who was born in Ireland, and came to America in an early day. He was married in his native State to Anna Crow, and subsequently moved to Kentucky. His children were seven in number - James, Milton, George, William V., Emily. Jane and Mary Ann. The mother died when William was five years old, and the father was again married. He died in 1840, aged about sixty-five years. He was a soldier in the war of 1812.

William V. McKinnet, Jr., was born in Sugar Creek Township, Clinton County, June 13, 1846, where he was reared on his father's farm, receiving his education in the schools of his district. He is a son of William V^. and Polly Ann (Cooper) McKinney, who were among the early settlers of Sugar Creek Township. He has made farming his life work, and is now the owner of eighty acres of valuable land where he resides in Sugar Creek Township. Mr. McKinney was married October 7, 1869, to Miss Martha M. "Ward, a daughter of Newton and Sarah (Perkins) Ward. To Mr. and Mrs. McKinney have been born eight children - Omer, born July 17, 1870; Matilda J., born July 3, 1872, died October 12, 1873; Wilson, born December 29, 1873, died September 4, 1884; Milton, born October 17, 1876; William, born August 23, 1878, died October 26, 1879; Emma, born May 31,1880; Iva M., born May 19, 1882, and Carrie E., born July 3, 1885. In politics Mr. McKinney is a Republican. He has served one term as township trustee, and was re-elected for a second term in the spring of 1886. In tlieir religious views he and his wife are Missionary Baptists. Newton Ward, father of Mrs. McKinney, was born in Kentucky, August 31, 1810, and when a boy was brought by his parents to Rush County, Indiana, where he was married. He came to Clinton County, Indiana, with his wife and four children and settled on section 36, Sugar Creek Township, where he commenced making a home. In 1856 he moved to Bourbon Countv, Kansas, and purchased a farm near Fort Scott, where he lived till the breaking out of the war, when that country becoming too hot for him on account of his political sentiments, he returned to Sugar Creek Township, and has since resided on section 31. His wife is also living. She was born in North Carolina about four years after her husband. They are the parents of the following children - Beverly R., Sarah E., William, Letta A., Jay Hugh, Matilda, Martha M. (wife of Mr. McKinney), and Jasper Newton, and six who are deceased, their names being - Elizabeth, Luciuda, Thomas, Adam, Ellen and Dartha Jane.