Union Township

Early Settlements

PuRXEL Bishop was born in Worcester County, Md., May i, 1804. His parents were Lemuel and Hannah (Bratton) Bishop, who were natives of I\[ar3"land. At the age of seven he accompanied his parents to Nicholas County, Kv., and there he resided until the age of seventeen, when he went to Harrison County, where he was engaged by his brother-in-law, and remained about three years. From Harrison County, he went to Bourbon County, Ky., and engaged at the cooper trade. There he worked five 3'ears with John Kiser, his uncle. Thence he immigrated to Rush County, Ind., leaving Bourbon County on the 17th of April, and landing in Rush County, April 20, 1831, and on the 26th of April, was united in marriage with Julia A. Kiser, daughter of Joseph and Rebecca Kiser, who came to Rush Count}- in the fall of 1830, but have long since been numbered with the pioneer dead. After his marriage, Mr. Bishop engaged in farming the first season with his father-in-law. On December 8, 1831, he began housekeeping on a tract of land now owned by his son Josiah Bishop. Here he began to make a home in the dense forest. By industry and perseverance, and the assistance of a loving wife, he succeeded in providing himself with a comfortable home. The union was blessed \\ith eight children, four of whom are living: Eliza, now the wife of George C. Roland, and resides in Grant County, Ind.; Nancy, the wife of Solomon Furry, and resides in Union Township: Elizabeth, now the wife of William H. Davis, and a resident of Palestine, Hancock Co., Ind., and Josiah, who owns and resides on the old homestead. The wife of our venerable subject was called away x\ugust i, 1879. She died a member of the Christian Church, with which she had been united forty-five years. She was a kind mother, a loving" wife and respected by all who knew her. Mr. Bishop is also a member of the Christian Church and has been united with the church over fortv vears. Farming" has been his chief occupation in life, in which he has been very successful, and has ahvaj'S been able to meet his obligations. He has always been identified with the Whig and Republican parties, but has never sought political honors.

James Bussel, one of the prominent pioneers of Union Township, is a native of Green County, Ohio, where he was born February 4, 1 8 20. His parents were Samuel and Sarah (Morgan) Bussel. The former was born in Northumberland County, Pa., March 24, 1785, and was reared in that county. After maturity, he emigrated to Green County, Ohio, and about 1810, was united in marriage with Sarah Morgan, daughter of Jonathan Morgan, a native of Virginia. Sarah was born in Virginia, on December 25, 1792, but her parents soon afterward removed to Kentuckv, and thence to Green Countv, Ohio, and ended their davs near Bloomington, Ills. During the War of 1S12, he served his country against the British and fought principally against the Indians. In 1821, he resolved to seek a home in the west, where land was cheap. Accordinglv, in September, 182 1, he came to Rush County, and selected a wild tract of land in the southeast quarter of Section 19, Union Township, where he erected a rude log cabin, and returned to Ohio for his family. He spent a part of the winter in Ohio, and on February 2, 1822, landed his family in his little cabin, which was without a floor. Mr. Bussel set about to clear up a home, and for ten years he lived upon this farm, when he removed to the farm where our subject now resides; this was also a wild tract of land, and once more he started in the forest. He built a hewed log house, which stands as a monument of pioneer daj'S. Here he and his loved companion resided until called to rest. The former passed away February 23, 1843, the latter June 2, 1871. They were members of the Christian Church. James Bussel obtained but a limited education, and at the age of twent3'-one, he began to do for himself by engaging in farming on the old home farm. After the death of his father, he purchased eighty acres of the old homestead, on which his residence now stands. In August, 1843, he was married to Susannah, daughter of Michael and Elizabeth Furry, old settlers of Union Township, now^ deceased. Mrs. Bussel was born in Union Township in 1828, and was called away on September 7, 1S44. She was a member of the Christian Church. This union was blessed with a son, Solomon, who died in infancy. Mr. Bussel was again married March 18, 1847, his choice being Miss Elizabeth J. McMillin, daughter of John and

Susan McMillin, who were among the hrst settlers of this countv. She was born in this township on July 12, 1829, and departed this life November 29, 1S58. She was a member of the Christian Church. This union was blessed with four children, whose names and dates of birth are as follows: Susan J., born October 12, 184S; John T., born June 19, 1S51; Sarah E., born December 29, 1854: Jessie F., born October 14, 1S57. On May 22, 1S60, he was married to Miss Margaret I. Ash, daughter of Elijah and Marv A. (McCormick) Ash, the 'former was a native of \'irginia. Margaret was born in Shelby County, Ind., July 12, 1840. This union was blessed with two children: James A., born April 18, 1861, and an infant unnamed, who was born July 7, 1862. Mr. and Mrs. Bussel are members of the Christian Church, and have been with the church forty-five }'ears. Politically, he is a Republican, and firmly upholds the principles of that party. He now owns one of the best improved farms in the township, consisting of 341 acres.

Samuel F. Cliftox was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, December 2, 1829. His parents were Simon S. and Margaret Clifton, the former a native of New Jersey, and the latter of Pennsylvania. They removed to Franklin County at an early day, and are both buried in Union Township. They married in Franklin County. The former died in Grant County in 1883, and the latter in Unioh Township, in 1878. On December 7, 1850, our subject was married to Rachel Morgan, a native of Dearborn County, Ind., her father was Benjamin Morgan. This union was blessed with eight children: Martha J., Richard F., William Emmet, Sarah E., Margaret L., Jacob J., Charles G. and Ada, all living. Mr. and Mrs. Clifton are members of the Christian Church, also his family. Politically, he is a Republican. He began life a poor man and has worked hard for what he is worth at present. He removed to the farm he now owns in 1864, and erected the fine residence on his farm. At present, farming is his chosen occupation, and his farm is considered the best farm in the county.

William M. Cook was born in Union Township November 27, 1838. He is the son of J. B. and Nancy M. Cook, old residents of this township. The former was born in Ohio, and the latter in Fayette County. From boyhood his life has been spent here. His occupation has been farming and trading, and he has shipped considerable stock. In 1862, he was married to Susan Johnston. Mrs. Cook was born in Richland Township in 1839. This union has been blessed by the birth of four sons: J. B., Oliver J., Robert B., and Ora K., all living. Mr. and Mrs. Cook are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically, he is a staunch Democrat, and firmly believes in its principles. He is one of the active workers in this county, and is Central Committeeman for Union Township. He began hfe in limited circumstances, and now owns one of the best farms in Union Township, Ij'ing a quarter of a mile west of Glenwood. Mr. Cook is an honored citizen of this county.

Robert B. Cook was born in Union Township, April i6, 184S. His parents were James and Nancy Cook, old and honored residents of Union Township. His boyhood and youth were spent upon his father's farm, one-half mile west of Glenwood. He received a good common school education, but adopted farming as his life business. On October 17, 1871, he chose for his wife Frances D. Johnston, daughter of Atwell and Larinda Johnston, who were old residents of Richland Township, where Mrs. Cook was born in 1850. To this union were born three daughters: Laura, Attie M. and Fannie Ball, all of whom are living. Mr. and Mrs. Cook are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politicalh', he is a staunch Democrat. In the spring of 1S86, he elected to the office of Township Trustee, which position he now holds. He has carefulh' managed the affairs of the township, and takes great interest in the schools. Mr. Cook owns a comfortable home near Glenwood, near where he was born and reared. He is an upright and industrious man.

William Carson Fox, son of Ellis and Mar}^ (Carson) Fox, was born in Washington County, Pa., near Monongahela City, September 7, 182S. His father was a native of Mar3-land, and belonged to the Society of Friends. He was a descendant of the Fox family who came to the United States with William Penn, in the Seventeenth centur^-. Ellis (our subject's father) was the son of Joshua and Sarah (Heath) Fox, and Mary, his wife, was the daughter of William and Mary (Burgess) Carson. About the year 1829 or 1S30, Ellis came from Washington County, Pa., to Union Township, Rush Co., Ind., and purchased a farm, carrying with him :p6oo in silver, and then returned to his Penn- S3-lvania home, making the entire journey on foot. In the spring of 1831, with his wife and three children, viz. : Elizabeth, John, and William C. (the subject of this sketch), he began the journey toward his new home in the far west, and with the tide of western migration they floated down the Ohio River to Cincinnati, and in a few weeks located on the farm where William now resides. During his young manhood, the father worked at the trade of stone mason. He was one of tlie original members of the Christian Church, which worshiped at Plum Creek, and during his entire life, his influence was on the side of truth, justice, and morality. He died in 1852; his wife, Marj^ followed him in July, i860, and to- gether thev rest in the burying ground at Fairview. On the 19th of September, 1S49, WilHam C. married Margaret Rich, a daughter of TiUman and Martlia (Carson) Rich, who came from Ohio to Indiana, in an early day. The children of this marriage are Mar}-, married Joseph McFadden, 1870: John E. H., deceased, and Elgie. Mr. Fox has neyer been a candidate for any ortice, is a quiet, unassuming gentleman, respected by his neighbors and usually yotes the Democratic ticket. He is liying a quiet life on the farm \yhere his father died.

LA\yREXCE GiXG is a natiye of Rush County, and is one of the leading citizens of Union Township, being at present actiyelv engaged in the manufacture of drain tile, and farming. He \yas born in 1829, and has made this his home all his life. His parents, William and Anna (Furry) Ging, the former of Irish, and the latter of German descent, weve among the pioneer settlers of Union Township, and were residents of the township at the time of their deaths. Our subject was reared amid the scenes incident to farm life, and received a fair education in the common schools. He began doing for himself after his maturity, and engaged in farming. In i860, he was married to Mary J. Gray, daughter of John and Margaret (Dick) Gray, the former a native of Pennsylyania, and the latter of Ohio, but both ^vere reared in Kentucky. Mrs. Ging was born in Bourbon County, Ky., in 1S24, and accompanied her parents to Rush County, and located in Union Township in 1833. Here her parents died. This union was blessed with two children: John W. (deceased), and Margaret A., now at home. Mr. and Airs. Ging are church members. Politically. Mr. Ging adheres to the Democratic party, and has tilled the office of Township Trustee. Mr. and Mrs. Ging have led useful, industrious li\-es, and have provided themselves with a comfortable home. In 1869, Mr. Ging engaged in the manufacture of drain tile, and this was about the lirst factory started in this count}'. His business has steadily increased, and there is no better tile manufactured in the county. His factory is capable of turning out 500,000 rods per year. A man of integrity, and upright in all the affairs of life, he is now one of the respected citizens of the township.

James Gray was born on the farm where he now resides February 8, 1834. His parents were James and Mary (Nichols) Gray, natives of Monroe County, W. Va., of Anglo-Saxon origin mixed with Scotch blood. The former was the son of John and Mary ( Rayburn) Gray, the former of whom was a very prominent worker in political circles. He was Circuit Judge, and held office in the Legislature for fourteen years. His parents were among the pioneer settlers of Virginia. James Gray, the third child of

John Gra}', was bom in Monroe Count}^ W. Va., May 23, 1797, and was reared on the farm. In April, 18 16, when but nineteen years of age, he was united in marriage with Mar}' Nickell, daughter of George and Margaret (Nelson) Nickell, natives of West Virginia, where Mary was born October 8, 179S. They located on a rented farm, and in the fall of 1S22, resolved to seek a home in the west and removed to Union Country, Ind., but, in 1824, Mr. Gray bought a part of the tract of land, which our subject now owns in Union Township, Rush County, Ind. He paid $155 for eighty acres. Here he made a home and resided until their respective deaths. James, our subject, was raised on the farm and has adopted farming as a life occupation. He received a good education in his youth; and on December 20, 1857, \vas married to Miss Martha Jane Nichols, daughter of James and Sina E. (Gerard) Nichols, natives of Franklin County, Ind., where Mrs. Gray was principally reared. This union was blessed with twelve children: John H., WilHam H., Rebecca C, Nancy, George, Andrew, Vincent, Adda, Cary, Minnie, Mary and Madison, of whom George, Mary and Madison are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Gray are members of fhe Christian Church. Politically, Mr. Gray is a Republican. He owns the old Gray homestead, which was settled in 1S24, and upon which he has spent his entire life. Here he has brought up a large family of sons and daughters, half of whom have grown to maturity.

John T. Gray, the subject of this biography, is the grandson of John Gray, who, with, his family, was among the first pioneer settlers of Union Township in the fall of 1S33. They came from Bourbon Countj-, Kv., the family consisting of six children. Thej^ were : Samuel and Margaret, by his first wife, whose maiden name was Jane Purdy; Jane, William J., Elizabeth D. and Alice A., by his second wife. Prior to his removal, John Gray had purchased a part of the farm now owned by John T. Gra}', his grandson. Here he resided until his death. During life, his principal occupation was farming; but he also gave some attention to stock-raising. He died in the fall of 1S54, ^ member of the Presbyterian Church. His wife survived him until March, 1871. Her maiden name was Margaret Dick. William, who was the fourth child, and who was the father of John T. Gray, was born in Bourbon County, Kj'., on September 17, 1825. At the age of eight years he came to this county. At the age of twenty-one he began life on his own responsibility, and on September 19, 1846, was united in marriage with Cynthia A. Allen, daughter of John and Susan (Kirkpatrick) Allen. The former was born in Virginia, and the latter in Kentucky, but were married in Green County, Ohio, where Cynthia was born November 2, 1S20. In 1S34 they came to Rush County, and settled in Washington Township. Wilham Gray and wife began housekeeping in a log house which stood on the farm owned bv our subject. He resided in this county until the spring of 1870, when he removed to Daviess County, Ind., and thence to Tennessee, in the spring of 1875, locating near Gallatin, where he died on Julv 17, 1876. His wife still survives him. He was a member of the Christian Church. During life he owned some verv fine horses: Aleck, Charley and Tuckahoe, which he purchased at the sale of his father's personal property-. Tuckahoe lived until he was twentj'-four j-ears old. These horses were sired by a horse owned by Joseph Gra}', known as Aleck, then by William Grav; Jerry, of Archy-Lightfoot stock: Dick, of Bedford stock; Tom, of Grav Traveler stock; Jake, of Proud American stock; and from the latter he raised three stallions, and last Tom-Hal, sired bv Shawhan. Tom Hal, sired b}' Bald-Stocking, who paced ninety miles in ten hours and forty minutes. Bald-Stocking was sired by an imported Tom-Hal, a bay-roan horse fifteen and one-half hands high. Bald- Stocking lived to be thirty-two 3'ears old, and was never known to lie down until the dav of his death. Graves Tom-Hal was purchased by William Grav when he was four vears old, and was kept in the Gray family until he was twent^'-seven years and six months old, when he died. His last season was the most successful, and he was owned b}- John T. Gray at the time of his death. He was of fast stock, and his colts have developed good speed. He was the sire of the dam of St. Denis, record 2:23; Buffalo Girl, 2:12)^; Jerome Turner, 2:i'j^\ and sired Little Gipsy, record 2 :2 2; Limber Jack, pacer, 2:i8}4; Bay Bill}-, pacer, 2:i3.):(; Mattie Bond, pacer, 2:27J.(; Syalger, trotter, 2 :3 1 1<( . John T. Gray was born in a log cabin on the farm where he now resides, July 11, 1847. He was the oldest in a familv of five sons: John, Joseph V., James W., Washington and Garrett D., of whom Washington is deceased. John grew to manhood on the farm, recei\ing a fair education. As his father was a horseman, it became necessar\- for John, in earlv life, as he was the eldest, to assist in caring for the horses. Therefore his early training in this respect was exceedingly good, and has placed him among the foremost horsemen in the county at the present time. On August 13, 186S, he was married to Alary C. McCrary, daughter of Samuel and Elsie (Parish) McCrary, the former a of County Antrim, Ireland, and was a bov when he came to this country'. Samuel and Elsie McCrarv were married September 11, 1S28, in Fayette County, and the former resided in this vicinity until his death, March 19, 1S81. His wife still survives him. Mrs. Gray was born in Washington Township, Febru- ary 2, 1851, and was reared here. This union has been blessed with four children; Charlie I., Flora M., Bessie Pearl, and Samuel W., all living. Mr. and Mrs. Gray are members of the Christian Church; also Charlie and Flora. Mr. Gra}', besides caring for his farm, owns and controls probably the most noted breeding barns in the county. It was established b}- John Gray in 1835, and has continued ever since. After him came William Grav, and then his son, John T., who o\\'ns it at present. It now contains six stallions, two imported draft horses : Favory and Coco, the former one of the most noted Norman draft horses in America; two Hambeltonian general purpose horses named Med'ock, Sr., and Medock, Jr. ; Frank Hale, one of the best bred horses in the west, sired by Ben Franklin, by Daniel Lambert, by Ethan Allen, by Black Hawk, dam by Lapham's Horse, by Hill's Black Hawk, and sired and raised in Vermont, and is five years old; he is 15K hands high and weighs 1080 pounds; Tom Hal, a two-3'ear-old, sired b}' Gray's Tom Hal; dam bv Davy Crocket, and shows great speed as a pacer. Mr. Gray gives his whole attention to his fine horses. He is an honest and upright citizen, and owns a comfortable home. Politically, he is a Democrat.

Henry Hall is a native of Bourbon Count}-, Ky., and was born September 16, 1828. His parents were Daniel and Mill}- (Yelton) Hall, the former a native of Harrison Count}-, Va., and the latter of Kentucky, where they were married on March 26, 1820. In 1828, they came to Rush County, and settled on the farm where our subject now resides. Henry was only six weeks old when his parents came here. He was reared on a farm and received a fair education in his youth. At the age of twenty he began life on his own responsibility. On September 30, i860, he was married to Miss Lucy J. Peak, daughter of Samuel and Susannah (Welsh) Peak. Lucy was born in Favette Count\", Ind., Ma}' 21, 1825, but principallv reared in Rush Countv. Thev were blessed with one child, Charles C, born June 19, 1862, and died August 30, 1873. Mr. and Mrs. Hall are members of the Christian Church, with which they have been united twenty-six years. Mr. Hall has acted in the capacity of Deacon most of this time. In 1867, he purchased the old homestead of 178 acres; the improvements have been made on it bv himself and father. His residence is one of the best in the township, and he has a comfortable home. In politics, he is a Democrat, but never sought political honors.

James Hinchman was a native of Monroe County, Va., born January 24, 1800. He was the fourth in a family 'of eleven children born.to John and Sarah (Vinson) Hinchman, the former a nati\'e of Maryland, where the Hinchmans settled during the time of the

Calverts. The latter was a native of Shenandoah Countv, Va. At the age of fourteen, John Hinchman removed to Monroe Count\-,Va., where he married Sarah \''inson, where they continued to reside until their deaths. James Hinchman was reared amid the scenes incident to farm life, and owing to his limited educational advantages was not enabled to attend school more than a year and a half during his youth. But in after life, by self-application, he obtained a fair English education. On April ii, 1822, he chose for a life companion Nancy Nickell, daughter of George and Margaret (Nelson) Nickell, natives of Monroe County,\'a., where Mrs. Hinchman was born, September 5, 1S04. At the time of his marriage Mr. Hinchman received $250 from his father, and with this money he resolved to seek a home in the west. He accordingly started for Indiana on horseback, and finally purchased 160 acres of land in Section 14, Union Township, Rush County, Ind., and returned for his young wife. They put what few cooking utensils they had into a two-horse wagon and started overland to their far-off home in the western wilderness. Arriving here November 14, 1822, they moved into a rude log cabin which had been erected on one of his eightj'-acre tracts. Soon afterward he built a more substantial house, in which he lived happily for many years. When he arrived here he had some fears as to whether or not he would succeed, but he went to work with a will and his first crop of corn averaged him ninety bushels to the acre. This assured him of success, and he resolved to make Rush County his future home. The family circle was blessed with fourteen children, viz.: George N., John T., Andrew, William N., Joseph ^'., James R., Carey, Alvin B., Jesse G., Sarah, Robert N., Amos C, Margaret and Nancv, of whom George N., John T., Joseph V., James R., Sarah H., Margaret, Alvin B., Carey, Amos C, Nancy, Jesse G., and Robert N. are still living. Mr. Hinchman began life a poor man, and after paving the expense of his trip to this county he found he had only $10 left, which he expended in pro\'isions for the winter. He was very successful in his chosen occupation, and at one time owned over 1,000 acres of land in Rush Count^-, besides 2,200 acres in Missouri and Iowa. He was liberal with his children, assisting them to get homes, and was a public-spirited man, encouraging, with time and money, railroads, canals, or any other improvement for the benefit of the public. Politically, he was a Republican, and in 1S44 "^^'^^ elected to the Indiana Legislature, which position he held two terms. He was Probate Judge of Rush County for three years, and held the ofiice of County Commissioner two years. He was a firm friend of the schools, and advocated the employment of the best teachers. On August 28, 1SS3, he passed away - a time-honored pioneer and citizen. He liad been a member of the Christian Church since its organization in this count\'. His life companion still survives him, and is in remarkable good health for one of her age - eighty-three years.

John T. Hinchman was born in Union Township, Rush Co., Ind., April 21, 1S25. He was the son of John and Nancy (Nickell) Hinchman, whose personal history appears in this volume. Our subject spent his boyhood and youth on the farm, and received a common school education. He adopted farming as his life occupation. At the age of twenty-one, or on Februarv 26,

1846, he was married to Sarah A. Blacklidge, daughter of John and Nanc}' (Semons) Blacklidge, who settled in Union Township in 1823, and lived here until their deaths. Mrs. Hinchman was born September 23, 1S26, and has spent her entire life here. They had two children: Roda A., deceased, and William M., now married and residing near his father. Our subject began housekeeping on the farm on which his brother Robert lives, but in December,

1847, removed to the farm where he now resides. This he purchased in the spring of that j-ear. It was partlv improved with ordinary improvements. It now consists of 160 acres under a high state of cukivation. His residence is a fine one. He began life a poor man, and by dint of industrj- has been eminently successful, and can be classed among the leading farmers of the township. He and wife are members of the Christian Church. Politically, he is a staunch Republican, and firmly upholds the principles of that party. He is one of the honest and upright citizens of Rush County.

Allen Hinchman was born in Union Township, Februarv 3, 1836. His parents were John and Margaret ( Nickell j Hinchman, the former, the son of John and Margaret (Vinson) Hinchman, whose biographies appear in this volume. The latter was the daughter of George and Margaret (Nelson) Nickell, natives of Monroe County, Va. On August 12, 1823, John was married to Margaret (Nickell), and during that fall removed to Rush County and located on a wild tract of land which he had entered on a trip to this county in 1S22, \^-hen James Hinchman came to this county. The tract of land entered by John Hinchman is owned at present by his son, Marshall Hinchman. John soon erected a rude log cabin, and spent the winter in it without doors or windows, and had 50 cents in money on his arrival here. The trials and hardships of those pioneer days can hardly now be realized by the present ^ generation. He began in the forest with a will and spent many a hard day's work in his clearing, and assisted by his indulgent wife, would burn brush until late at night. Thus, bv degrees, he climbed the ladder of prosperity, and by industry and perseverance, had at the time of his death accumulated a fortune of $75,000, leaving his family in comfortable circumstances. He was one of the largest land owners of Rush County, and at the time of his death, owned over 1,000 acres, besides valuable propertv in Connersville. He was a good financier and had the reputation of being one of the shrewdest traders in the count}-. Politically, he cast his first vote with the Whigs, but on the formation of the Republican part}', he heartily gave it his support, and was one of the foremost advocates of the abolition of slavery, in Rush County. He sent two of his sons, Ira and Morris, to defend their countrv's honor. The former received a severe wound, but both returned to enjoy the Union they fought so bravely to preserve. Mr. Hinchman was chosen bv his party, as County Commissioner, and often served Union Township as its Trustee, in which offices he performed his duties in a manner creditable to himself and constituents. He was a public spirited man, and was ever ready to assist any laudable enterprise in the countv. He gave freely to churches, schools, and probably as much as $3,000 to various railroads in the county. He assisted financially in the building of the White Water canal, besides doing his share toward the building of pikes and gravel roads, and all public improvements of merit. He was a member of the Christian Church, and passed away on June 2, 1865. Thus ended the life of one of Rush County's time honored citizens and pioneers. His loving wife, who had stood by his side through the trials and hardships for over forty years, survived him until October 3, 1S76, when she, too, was called to rest. The seventh of his children is the subject of this biographv, from whom this information was obtained. He has ahvavs lived in Union Township, and received a fair education for that day. On December 22, 1S5S, he was married to Nancy Motfitt, daughter of Andrew and Athalia (Rees) Mofhtt, residents of Fayette County. Nancy was born in Fayette Countv, April 23, 1840. This union was blessed with five children: Margaret, Minnie M., Nora, Ulysses G., George W., all living. Mr. and Mrs. Hinchman are members of the Christian Church, and in politics he is a staunch Republican. When he began life his father gave him $1,000, and by carefully managing his affairs has been eminently successful. At present he owns a fine farm in Section 21, provided with nlodern improvements. He is an upright citizen and one of the successful farmers of Union Township. Robert N. Hinchman is one of the leading farmers of Union Township. He is a native of Rush Countv, and the son of James and Nancy Hinchman, earlv pioneers, whose biographies appear in this volume. He was born February 9, 1S43, and spent his boyhood and youth on the farm, receiving a fair education in the dis- trict schools. On August lo, 1864, he was united in marriage with Miss Sarah J. Kirkpatrick, a native of Union Township, and the daughter of David and Jane (Oldham) Kirkpatrick, the former a native of Kentucky, and the latter of Tennessee. The Kirkpatricks were among the first settlers of Rush County. The family circle of Mr. and Mrs. Hinchman has been blessed with six children, four of whom are living at this writing. They are : Carrie B., Van A., Eva M., and William E. They began hfe together on the farm where they now reside, which will compare favorably with the best improved farms in the county. Farming has been his principal occupation in life, although in the fall of 1873, he removed to Rushville, where he resided until 1876, when he returned to the farm. Politicalh', he has been identified with the Repubhcan party and has worked hard for its success in the county. In 1876, he was elected County Commissioner, and for eleven consecutive years he has held that responsible position. During his official term the county debt has been wiped out, and numerous bridges and other public improvements have been made. The county is now out of debt, and can be classed among the foremost in the State as to public improvements. Mr. Hinchman retires from the Board of Commissioners with the good will and praise that a faithful public servant should receive from all parties. In connection with his farm labors, he is also engaged in buying grain at Ging's Station, a village on the J., M. & I. R. R., located one-half mile northeast of his farm. Honest and upright in all his dealings, Mr. Hinchman can be classed among the substantial citizens of Rush County. His portrait appears in this volume.

James Kiser is a native of Bourbon County, Ky., born November 18, 182 1. His parents were Joseph and Rebecca Kiser, natives of Kentucky, who immigrated to this State about fiftv-six j-ears ago, and settled in the southern part of Union Township. James was then a small boy, and assisted his parents in developing a home m the wilderness. Being reared on a farm, he adopted farming as a life occupation, and now is one of the successful farmers of the county. In 1844, he was married to Jane Smelser, daughter of John and Abigail Smelser, who were among the pioneer settlers of Rush County. Mrs, Kiser was born in Bourbon Count}-, Kj^ This union has been blessed with twelve children, of whom seven are living, namely: Joseph, Sarah, George, James, Emma, Albert and Corry. Mrs. Kiser, a loving wife and mother, was called awa}' on August 7, 1887. For about thirty-three vears he has resided where he now lives, and has made the most of the improvements. His residence is one of the best in the vicinitv, and his farm is under a high state of cultivation. Politically, he is a

Staunch Republican, but has never sought political honors. He is a citizen of integrity and honor, and was al\va3"S ready to assist a public enterprise of benefit to the communitv.

John W. Looxey was born in Union Township, June 15, 1S36, and was the son of John W. and Matilda (Ward) Looney, natives of Kentucky, but were married in Rush County, August 5, 1830. John W. Looney, Sr., first came to Rush County in the fall of 1821. His death occurred in 1868; his wife survived )iim until 18S3, when she was called away; the}^ were members of the Christian Church. For a number of years he held the position of Postmaster at Farmington. He was the son of David Looney, a native of South Carolina, who was a soldier during the Revolutionary War. Our subject was reared on the farm, and farming has been his life occupation. On September 12, 1S58, he was united in marriage in Tazewell County, Ills., to Miss Mary F. Hammonds, daughter of Peter and Nancy (Thomas) Hammonds, who were natives of Kentucky. Mrs. Loone}' was born in Fleming County, Ky., January 10, 1833. This union was blessed with nine children, of whom Isalina, George Alfred, Matilda, John A. and Marj- A., are living. Mr. and Mrs. Looney are members of the Christian Church. Politcally, Mr. Loone}' is a staunch Republican, and was at one time Trustee of Union Township, and also Assessor.

William H. Mauzy was born in Noble Township, Rush County, Ind;, March 10, 1848. His parents were William and Caroline Mauzy, the former of Bourbon County, Ky., and the latter of Pennsylvania. The former was among the early settlers of Noble Township, and at present is a resident of Rushville. Our subject was raised on the farm, and at the age of twenty he began for himself. In June, 1871, he w'as married to Luella J. Spivey, daughter of John and Rhoda (Lang) Spivey, residents of Fayette County. They are members of the Christian Church. He is a member of Glenwood Lodge 569, I. O. O. F. He moved on the farm in 1S73, where he now resides. Politically, he is a Republican.

John T. McMillin stands foremost among the prominent and industrious farmers and stock-raisers of Union Township, and resides in the northeast quarter of Section 12. He was born near where he now lives August 30, 1831, and has spent his entire life in this township. We can trace his lineage back to about 17S0, when we have an account of Thomas and Mary (Young) Mc- Millen, who were his grandparents, emigrating from Ireland to America, locating in Washington County, Pa., and of six children being born to them; they were: Matthew, John, James, Ebenezer, Samuel, and Anna; also that their parents died in Washington County, Pa. John, the second son, and the father of the sub- ject of this biography, was born in 1793. In 1815, he removed to Brown County, Ohio, and engaged as a farm hxborer. While there, he made three trips on a flat-boat to New Orleans, returning on foot each time to Brown County. There, on June 10, 1S24, he was married to Susannah JMcConnell, a native of Brown County, Ohio, born April 30, iSoo, and the daughter of Thomas and Mary (Downing) McConnell, the former a native of Pennsylvania, and the son of Arthur and Elizabeth (Wilson) McConnell, both of whom were nati\'es of Ireland, but emigrated to America prior to the Revolutionary War, and settled in western Penns\'lvania. Thomas McConnell, their youngest of nine children, and the grandfather of our subject on his mother's side, was born in Washington County, Pa., November 4, 1772. About the time of his maturity he went to Mason Count}', Kj'., where he married Mary Downing, a native of Pennsylvania, born October 7, 1799. She was the daughter of John and Susan (Ellis) Downing. Soon after this marriage, Thomas ^McConnell removed to Brown County, Ohio, where he entered land and continued to reside the remainder of his life, his death occurring April 26, 1865; his wife having passed away November 5, 1832. He was a Captain during the W^ar of 1S12, and was with Gen. Hull when he surrendered at Detroit. We will now return to John McMillin, who, soon after his marriage, located on a tract of land which he had previously eiriei-ed in Section 13, Union Township. He came here and settled down in the forest emptyhanded, having but a few cents on his arrival. He erected a rude cabin, into which he moved his family, and with his axe started to clear up a home. His wife willingly assisted him by burning brush and such work as she could do, and bv the next spring he had succeeded in preparing ten acres for corn. Success attended his labors from this time on, and ere his death, which occurred Mav 29, 1S50, he found himself the possessor of over 600 acres of choice farming land. He and wife were true Christians, and the honored principles taught their children in youth, are now evidenced by honest, upright men and women. The mother survived her companion until Januar}' 23, 1885, when she, too, crossed the dark river. Thus we glean a little knowledge of the lives of the sturdy pioneers who came here when all was woods, and by hard and earnest toil succeeded in developing homes which will stand as monuments to their honored names while memory lasts. They are gone, but not forgotten, for sons and daughters survive them who have inherited the homes which they toiled so incessantly to make, and who will keep their memories green, and pass down from generation to generation the history of the trials and hardships of their illustrious antecedents. As stated, John T. McMillin was born and reared in

Union Township. His birth having occurred in 1 831, he has had an opportunit}' to witness almost the entire growth of the county. His moral and intellectual training in youth was good, and he had the advantage of a common school education. Being raised on the farm, he adopted farming as a life occupation, in which he has been eminently successful. On November 25, 1852, he was united in marriage with Sarah Buzan, daughter of Wills and Maria (Kendall) Buzan, at that time residents of Union Township, but now deceased, and who were among the first settlers of the countv. To this union were born three children, namely: Clara A., Laura B. (who died in infancy), and Sarah Bell. The wife and mother died Januar}^ 27, 1857, and on the 24th of the following November, Mr. McMillin was married to Nanc}' B. Pentecost, daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth (Bishop) Pentecost, the former the son of John and Jemima Pentecost, and born in Union Countv, Ind., December 15, 1805, and died in Henry Count}', Ind. The latter was born October 4, 1S08, and died in Union Township. She was the daughter of William and Elizabeth (Freel) Bishop, the former a native of Marvland, and the son of Robert and Rachel Bishop, natives of Tvlaryland. He died in Preble County, Ohio, and was a soldier during the War of 181 2. His wife, Nancj- Freel, was the daughter of John and Elizabeth (Wood) Freel. B}' this union Mr. and Mrs. McMillin have had born to them six children: Emma J., John A., Ora M., William H., and Lida O., of whom Emma Josephine is deceased, dying the wife of John L. Shauck. Mr. McMillin now resides on a fine improved farm of 260 acres in Section 12, across the southeast corner of which the J., M. & I. R. R. crosses, and on which "McMillin's Station" is located. He also owns two other farms in the county. Besides giving his attention to farming, he has of late devoted considerable time and monej' in developing the heavy draft horse industr}- of the countv, and was one of the first owners of imported Norman horses, and he now owns two fine imported Norman mares, "Marguerite," foaled in France in 1S83, also "Marquise," foaled in the same country in 1885. He also owns an interest in the noted imported draft horses, "Favory" and "Coco," the former taking the world's premium at Paris in 1878, also at St. Louis, Mo., in 1880. He has taken premiums everwhere he has been e.xhibited, and is one of the finest Norman draft horses in America to-da}-. Space compels us to end this sketch of an illustrious famih', whose name is familiar throughout the county, and we will close by adding that John T. McMillin, with a few other leading citizens of the countv, in 1857, organized the Rush Count}' Agricultural Society, and established a vearlv fair at Rushville, which for its success, has become known beyond the borders of Indiana. For a number of 3'ears he served as a Director of the association, then as its President, and at present is a member of the Executive Board. He earnestly works to prosecute the interests of the agriculturists and breeders, of Rush County; hence the appreciation of his success. He and wife are members of the "Church of Christ," or Christian denomination. Politically, he is a staunch Republican, and firmly believes in the principles of that party. Mr. McMillin's portrait appears in this volume as one of the representative citizens of the county.

Thomas W. Moffitt, a worthy resident of Union Township, was born in Fayette County, December 29, 1S37, and was the eldest son of William and Mary (Wiles) Moffitt, the farmer a native of Pennsylvania, and the latter of Ohio. Our subject was raised on a farm, and received a fair education in his youth. On July 25, 1S61, he enlisted in Company F, Thn-d Indiana Cavalr}-, and was placed in the Department of the Potomac. Mr. Moffitt continued in active service until August, 1864, when he received an honorable discharge, and returned home with a shattered constitution. In 1867, he was married to Miss Lydia Jones, of Cincinnati, Ohio, who was called awa}- in 1869, since which time Mr. Moffitt has made his home w'here he now resides. He receives a liberal pension from the Government, but would give the wealth of the Government, if he had it, to once more enjoy good health. He is now fifty years of age, and a quiet, genial man, of easy manners, and a good conversationalist. He makes his home with father and mother, who are still li-ving.

WiLLiA.^i Morris, the subject of this biograph}', is a prominent resident of Union Township. Bourbon County, Ky., was the place of his birth, March 13, 1820. Morris and Mary (Cummings) Morris are his parents. In 1834, or at the age of fourteen years, he accompanied his parents to Rush County, locating southeast of Rushville, where William spent the remainder of his youth on the farm. In 1847, he was married to Nancy Matlock, who died in 1849, leaving one child, Isabella, who is now the wife of George O. Pumphrey, and residents of Newton County, Ind. In 1855, Mr. Morris was again married, this time to Miss Mary I. Smith, daughter of Louis and Rachel (Looney) Smith, the former a native of Virginia, born May 15, 1791, and the latter a native of Kentucky, born February 9, 1795; they were both pioneers of Rush County. To this union of Mr. and Mrs. Morris, were born six children, viz. : Noah, Emma N., Jesse L., Thomas M., William and Mary E., of whom Noah and Thomas M. are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Morris are members of the Christian Church. In politics, he is a Demo- crat. He had a limited start in life, but has by hard and earnest toil provided himself with a comfortable home in his declining years. For nine years he was a resident of Hancock Count}', Ind., but in 1866, returned to Rush Count}', and has made this his home ever since. In 1872, he moved upon the farm that he now owns near Griffin's Station.

Jesse Murphy, Sr., was born in Butler County, Ohio, August 6, 1804. He was the son of James and Eunice Murph}'', the former a native of Kentuck}', and the latter a native of New Jersey. The former was the son of Peter Murphy, a native of Ireland, and emigrated to Kentucky when he was a boy. James Murph\' was born and reared in Kentucky. Jesse was reared on a farm in Ohio, and farming is his occupation. In 1825, he was married to Charlotte Woodruff, daughter of Samuel Woodruff, a native of New Jersey. Charlotte was born in New Jersey in 1806, and was thirteen years old when she came to Ohio. To this union have been born four children, of whom Jesse is living. In 1835, he came to this country, and settled near Glenwood. This was then a wilderness, and has developed wonderfully since then. He had but a few dollars when he began life on his own responsibility, but bj- hard toil he has elevated himself from a renter to one of the largest farmers and land owners in the count}-. He owns about 300 acres of fine, tillable land in the county, and has a comfortable home. He assisted his three sons to fine homes, and has been very liberal with his children. In 1885, his hfe companion who had stood by his side through the trials and hardships of this life over sixty years, was called to rest. Thus ended the life of a noble wife and mother, and one respected by all who knew her. Honest and upright in all the affairs of life, Mr. Murphy is now one of the honoi ed pioneers of the county. His portrait appears in this volume.

John Rees is a native of Fayette County, Ind., where he was born January 14, 1826. His parents were John and Nancy (Jarrett) Rees, natives of Pennsvb'ania of German descent. They were married in Pennsylvania, and were among the first settlers of Fayette County, where they continued to reside until their deaths. Our" subject was reared on a farm and adopted farming as his life occupation, in which he has been successful. He began life in poor circumstances and now owns 247 acres of fine, tillable land in Section 18, and is provided with a comfortable home. In 1850, he was united in marriage with Miss Nancy A. Gray, daughter of James and Mary (Nickel) Gray, who were pioneers of Rush County and are now deceased. Mrs. Rees was born in Union Township, and resided here until her death, which occurred in February, 1868. This union was blessed with eight children, viz. : John H., Mary D.,

Theodore, Nahcv, Margaret, James, Myrtie and George H., of whom John H. is deceased. In April, 1869, Mr. Rees was married to Miss Alice Hazzard, daughter of H. W. Hazzard, a resident of Favette County, Ind. Mrs. Rees was born in St. Mary's, Ohio, but was principally brought up in Fayette County. Thej' have three children living, Berten, Oscar and Justice. Mr. and Mrs. Rees are members of the Christian Church. Politically, Mr. Rees is a Republican, and iirml}' believes in the tenets of that party.

Garrett Wikoff, deceased, was born in Monmouth County, N. J., Februarjr 3, 1799. ^^^ parents were Arthur W. and Eleanor (Conover) Wikoff, natives of New Jersey. The Wikoffs are of German descent. When Garrett was seventeen 3'ears old, he accompanied his father to Butler County, Ohio, where they located on a farm near Middletown. There he grew to manhood, and in 1S20 was married to Nancy McClelan. Soon after this marriage Mr. Wikoff removed to Rush Countv, and settled on the farm where Mrs. Wikoff now resides. In 1843, his wife was called away. To their union were born six children : Sarah J., Adaline, James M., i\rthur W., Samuel C, and Benjamin S., of whom Sarah J., Adaline and Benjamin S. are deceased. On February 18, 1845, he was united in marriage with Miss Nancy Graves, daughter of Dunovan and Sarah (Hicks) Graves, natives of Kentuck}^, where Nancy was born, April 9, 1820, and in August, 1822, her parents located in Union Township, and here she has resided ever since. Her 'parents have long since passed away, and Mrs. Wikoff is now the oldest pioneer of Union Township, having resided here sixtv-six years, and is in fair health for one of her age. This union was blessed with four children: Nancy A., Eleanor G., Garrett D., and Mary E., all of whom are living. Mr. Wikoff passed away November 24, 1886. He was one of the pioneers of Rush County, and a member of the Christian Church, and politically, a Democrat. He began life a poor bo}', and by industry and perseverance was very successful in his chosen pursuit. He was a lover of fine stock, and for some j'ears was the owner of a fine herd of Short Horn cattle. His widow survives him, and resides on the old homestead, which is a comfortable home. Manv changes have taken place since she can first remember, and those that were her neighbors fiftv years ago have passed away. She is a member of the Christian Church, with which she has been united for almost fifty years.

Garrett D. Wikoff, a prominent young farmer and stockraiser of Union Township, and the son of Garrett and Nancy Wikoff, whose biography appears in this volume, was born heree-a cember 15, 1850. His entire life has been spent on the farm,Qu farming and stock-raising has been his occupation. His early education was fair. For some years he has been engaged in breeding Poland China hogs, and fine horses, and probabl}- has the best stock in the county. On September i8, 1877, he was united in marriage with Miss Julia A. Parrish, daughter of John S. and Emmeline (Bates) Parrish, and at present residents of Falmouth, Union Township. Mrs. Wikoff, was born in Fa3'ette County, February 9, 1859. Mr. Wikoff is a member of the Snow Lodge No. 305, F. &. A. M., also of Rushville Chapter. In politics, he is a Democrat, but believes in local politics. He owns a fine improved farm and is one of the prominent young farmers of Rush County.

Jonathan S. White is a native of Fayette County, Ind., where he was born in 1830. In 1848, he located on an eightyacre tract of land in Noble Township, Rush Countv, Ind. He chose for his wife Miss Sarah J. Looney, daughter of Peter and Jane Loonev. Sarah was born in Rush County. To this union was born one child, a daughter, who married Thomas D. Ruff, of Ohio, and is now deceased. To the daughter have been born four children, namely: Earl W., Blanche, Rob Roy, and Maggie, all of whom are living at this date. To illustrate the povertj- of Mr. White at the time of his marriage, we are authorized to sav that he was compelled to borrow $3 in order to procure a marriage certificate. He went to work with a will, and by close application to his profession has succeeded in accumulating considerable wealth. He now owns over 500 acres of as fine farming lands as the county affords, and is the possessor of valuable horses and cattle. His wealth he has made honestly and by hard work. In politics, he is a Republican, but has never sought for political honors.