Vincennes Township (part 11 of 14)

Joseph Bond received his early education in the district schools of Knox county and as he grew up assisted on the farm and became thoroughly acquainted with the details of agricuhure and stock-raising. After reaching manhood he began for himself by renting land and at the end of five years acquired a small capital, with which he purchased a farm, finally accumulating seven hundred acres of land in this county. He is recognized as a man of clear judgment in business affairs and his advice is often sought by those who seek to proceed along most approved lines. When his advice is followed it is very seldom the individual goes astray. He believes in assisting young persons who are starting out in life to obtain such advantages as are possible under the conditions in which we now live and accordingly he has deeded to each of his five children eighty acres of land, retaining three hundred acres for himself.

In 1854 Air. Bond was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Jane Latshaw and seven children were born to this union, five of whom are now living: Robert F., who is married and has three children ; William, who is married and has six children ; Francis T., who is married and has three children ; Lou, now Airs. James Curry and the mother of one child ; and Dora, at home. The mother having departed this life, Mr. Bond was married in 1892 to Mrs. Alar)' E. (Kennedy) Shepherd, a daughter of Rev. Stephen Kennedy of Illinois, who was a minister of the gospel.

Although Air. Bond has reached an age when most men are retired from active business, his natural force is largely unabated and he is still as capable of transacting important business affairs as a man thirty years his junior. He is a stanch advocate of the republican party and, although he has never sought public office, he has served for a number of years in minor township offices, discharging his duties with a fidelity that met the hearty approval of the people. For sixty-two years he has been a member of the Christian church and during the entire period has acted as elder in the church. In his relations with others he has made it his aim to deal justly, speak gently and ever to keep in mind that all men are of one blood and of one brotherhood.

Charles Nicholson

Charles Nicholson, postmaster of Wheatland and one of the prosperous agriculturists of Knox county, is a native of this county, born in Steen township. January 9, 1864, and is a son of Andrew and Caroline (Boyd) Nicholson. After attending the district schools, he became a student in the public schools of Vincennes. Laying his books aside at seventeen years of age, he began in the mercantile business and later became junior member of the firm of Dukote & Nicholson, dealers in hardware and drugs, at Wheatland. Subsequently he closed out his business and engaged in farming but later became connected with general merchandising, in which he continued until 1908, when he again became actively interested in farming and is now the owner of two hundred and ten acres of land in donation 1 08 and two hundred and thirty acres in Daviess county, Indiana. He is also a stockholder in the Farmers & Merchants Bank of Wheatland. His wife owns one hundred acres in donation 108 and a house and four lots in the village. In 1906 Mr. Nicholson was appointed postmaster of Wheatland and this position he still retains, having discharged his duties in such a way as to meet with the commendation not only of the people of Wheatland and vicinity but of the officers of the government at Washington.

On May 18, 1892, Mr. Nicholson was united in marriage to Miss May Steen, a daughter of Enoch and Sadie Steen. Steen township received its name from this family, the older members of which were among the prominent pioneers of Knox county. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Nicholson: Lois, Eleanor Ruth and Charles Byron.

Mr. Nicholson has been from the time of reaching manhood an ardent supporter of the republican party and has assisted to the extent of his ability in advancing the interests of the party in Knox county. His religious belief is indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church and socially he is connected with the Order of Ben Hur, the Modern Woodmen of America, the Court of Honor, the Knights of Honor, the Mutual Protective Association and several other organizations. He has an abiding interest in the county where he has lived all his life and is always a willing contributor to any cause, either public or private, that aims to advance the interest of the region in which he makes his home. He is a public-spirited, patriotic citizen and is known as one whose desire it is to promote the moral as well as the material welfare of those with whom he is associated. In all the relations of life he has been constant and true and therefore well merits the esteem in which he is held by all who know him.

Thomas J. Reel

Thomas J. Reel, the owner of a well improved farm in a rich section of Knox county and a citizen who stands very high in the estimation of those who know him, was born in Harrison township, November 22, 1843, his parents being Aaron and Catherine (Jordon) Reel. The father was a native of the Keystone state and came from Pennsylvania to Knox county in his early manhood, seeking a permanent location where conditions would be more favorable than those of older settled communities. He found a desirable tract of land in the region south of Vincennes, and there he lived until his death, which occurred at the age of seventy-one years. He was a man of good judgment and one who always attempted to perform his duty to those with whom he was associated. The mother was a native of Johnson township, this county. The father was twice married, his first wife being a Miss Pancake, by whom he had five children, one of whom died in infancy.

Samuel, David and Aaron are now deceased ; and Fred is a farmer living in Harrison township. Three children were born to the second marriage: Maggie, now deceased; Thomas J., our subject; and Mary, the wife of Samuel Candle, of Vincennes.

The subject of this review was educated in the public schools of Vincennes and later attended school in the country. In February, 1865, having then attained the age of twenty-one years, he enlisted in the army to fight for the cause of the Union, serving for nine months, but as the war was drawing to a close at the time of his enlistment he was never present at any engagement. Immediately after his return home he began his active career as a farmer and in 1873 purchased the land on which he has since lived. Here he has made all the improvements, including a comfortable residence and ample outbuildings and he has cleared the land, planted shade and ornamental trees, tiled the land and built fences, thus bringing the farm up to a high standard and making it capable of a good degree of cultivation. That he is a worker is indicated by the fact of his attending seventeen logrollings in one season. His farm comprises sixty-seven and one-half acres, formerly occupied by a forest which it required a large amount of work to remove.

In 1 87 1 Mr. Reel was united in marriage to Miss Eliza Hertle, who comes of stanch Teutonic ancestry and was born in Germany. Five children have blessed their union: Katie, the wife of Marshall Barrickton, of Monroe City; Louisa, now Mrs. John Hicks, of Olney, Illinois; Gertrude, a trained nurse of Olney ; Lawrence, a farmer of Harrison township ; and Theodore, deceased.

As the head of a family Mr. Reel performed an honorable part in life by setting a creditable example for his children and those with whom he has associated. He is a firm believer in the Bible as the inspired revelation and indicates his faith by membership in the Presbyterian church, of which he is a trustee. Politically he is identified with the democratic party. That he is successful as a farmer is shown by the neat appearance of his home and the well tilled fields which annually return rich harvests. He has earned the place he holds as a responsible and respected citizen of an intelligent communitv.

Mrs. Volender Boyd

Mrs. Volender Boyd, a worthy member of one of the honored families and for many years a resident of Knox county, was born at Clinton, Illinois, November 18, 1841. She is a daughter of Adam and Anna (Smith) Hornback, the former of whom was born November 16, 1800. in Palmyra township, this county, and the latter February 25, 1803. Adam Hornback received his preliminary education in the public schools of his native county and later attended college in Virginia, now West Virginia, where he became qualified as a physician. After practicing his profession for a time in Virginia he returned to Knox county and later took up his residence in Clinton county, Illinois, where he acquired a fine reputation as a medical practitioner and also engaged on an extensive scale in agricultural pursuits. He was a man of good judgment in business affairs and accumulated eight hundred acres of land in Illinois, enjoying in an eminent degree the confidence of the people. He was called from earthly scenes December 12, 1858, his wife having died December 12, 1845.

Volender Hornback grew to womanhood and was married November 11, 1870, to Leroy Boyd, who was born in Knox county, February 4, 1837. He received his early education in the district schools and later attended college at New Lebanon, Indiana. He became a prominent farmer in this county and one of the largest live-stock feeders and shippers of the county. He was also associated with other interests, being a stockholder in the First and Second National Banks of Vincennes. He was one of the leaders in the organization of the Knox County Fair Association and a member of the first advisory board of the association, also being a member of the board in later years. Mr. Boyd was a strong believer in the Bible and an active worker in the Bruceville Methodist Episcopal church. From the time of reaching manhood he adhered to the principles of the republican party. On March 11, 1908, this worthy citizen passed away.

There were four children born to Mr. and Mrs. Boyd : Stella, the wife of Lincoln Horbinson and the mother of six children: Alice, who married Edward Bierhaus and is the mother of four children ; and J. T. and Dr. C. L., both of whom are appropriately mentioned in this work. Mrs. Boyd resides at the family homestead, which embraces four hundred acres and is one of the finest farms in this county. Throughout a wide region she has many friends, to whom she has endeared herself by countless acts of courtesy and kindness. She has lived to see great transformations in a country now dotted with comfortable farm houses and known as one of the garden spots of the middle west, and she herself has assisted as opportunity presented in strengthening those ties which made society possible and enhance the beauty and pleasures of life. As one of the intelligent and respected members of the community, who has long been connected with its best interests, no record of Knox county would be complete without adequate mention of the subject of this review.

Mrs. Caroline Nicholson

Mrs. Caroline (Boyd) Nicholson has traveled life's journey for eightyfive years, being today one of the oldest residents of Knox county, making her home upon a farm of seventy-three acres which is situated on donation 87, Steen township. She was born in Wythe county, Virginia, December 29, 1825, a daughter of John T. and Christina Boyd. Her father was born in

South Carolina on the 28th of April, 1805, and on the nth of Septeniber, 1823, was married. There were seventeen children born of that union, of whom Mrs. Nicholson was the second in order of birth. Her girlhood days were spent in the south and in early womanhood she became the wife of Andrew Nicholson, who sought her hand in marriage and with whom she long traveled life's journey. Their wedding was celebrated in 1854. Mr. Nicholson was a native of Pennsylvania, born in 181 2. He made farming his life work and was a very successful man. He recognized the fact that industry and unfaltering perseverance constitute the basis of business advancement and he worked hard year after year until he was enabled to add to his property and became the owner of considerable land. He was a man held in the highest regard by all because of his well known business integrity and enterprise. His word was as good as any bond ever solemnized by signature or seal.

The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Nicholson was blessed with seven children and five of the number are still living, as follows : Mary, who is the wife of Henry Watjen, by whom she has six children ; Martha Ann, who gave her hand in marriage to James D. Williams, a grandson of Ex Governor Williams, and is now the mother of six children: John: Charles, who is married and has three children ; and Andrew E., who is the father of two children.

Mr. Nicholson was a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal church, took active part in its work, contributed generously to its support and also gave freely where charity was needed. His political allegiance was given to the republican party and he held many township offices, the duties of which he discharged with promptness and fidelity. He was called to his final rest in 1886 and thus passed away one who was ever regarded as a valued and worthy citizen of Knox county, where he had lived since 181 5. Mrs. Nicholson still makes her home on donation 87, Steen township, where she owns seventy-three acres of rich and valuable land but has converted most of her property into money. Her holdings are sufficient to supply her in the evening of her days with all of the comforts of life and she is among the most highly esteemed of Knox county's pioneer women.

E. R. Stocker

E. R. Stocker, who for the past years has conducted a large undertaking business in Vincennes, his establishment being particularly well equipped, is a native of Greenville, Ohio, born on the 19th of March, 1875. His parents were Andrew and Margaret (Rader) Stocker. The father was a farmer and landowner who for some years engaged in the tilling of the soil but afterward turned his attention to the butchering business. In both lines he was quite successful and eventually became a man of wealth, his prosperity enabling him to retire from active business life, so that he is now spending his clays in the enjoyment of well earned and well merited rest.

Spending his youthful days in his native city, E. R. Stocker pursued his education in the public schools of Greenville until graduated from the high school. Immediately afterward he began learning the undertaking business with his brother and subsequently pursued a course in embalming in Cincinnati, Ohio. He worked with his brother for four years and has been engaged altogether in the undertaking business for twenty years. He came to Mncennes from Lawrenceville, Illinois, where he had conducted an undertaking establishment for six years, and since 1903 has been located in Vincennes, where a very extensive patronage has been accorded him, his being one of the leading undertaking establishments in the city.

On the 28th of June, 1909, Mr. Stocker was united in marriage to Miss Nellie PVances Groves, of Allison Prairie, Illinois, a daughter of Frank and Delpha (Hepsher) Groves. Mrs. Stocker was formerly a trained nurse, a graduate of the Chicago Baptist Hospital.

In fraternal circles E. R. Stocker is widely and favorably known. He belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows ; to Corner Stone Lodge, No. 126, K. P.; to the Modern Woodmen camp; to Court of Honor, No. 432 ; to the Independent Order of Samaritans and the American Home Circle. All of these indicates much of the nature of his interests and the principles which govern his actions. He is, moreover, a consistent member of the Christian church. His popularity is well deserved as in him are embraced the characteristics of an unbending integrity, unabating energy and industry that never flags. He finds delight in serving his fellowmen in conformity to the fraternal spirit of the different lodges to which he belongs, and he is a worthy representative of that class who constitute the best force in the citizenship of the community.

One of the prosperous and successful farmers of Knox county is Curtis T. McClure, the owner of a highly improved farm of two hundred acres in Palmyra township. He was born in that township, September i, 1876, and is a son of W. T. and Sarah E. (Bunting) McClure, the former of whom was born in Palmyra township, October 16, 1842, and the latter in Vigo township, this county, January 28, 1848. The father was educated in the district schools of Knox county and became one of its very prominent citizens not only as an agriculturist but in the political affairs of the county. At the time of his death, which occurred July 16, 1907, he was the owner of a fine farm of two hundred acres, provided with all modern conveniences. He was a public-spirited man and one of the prime movers in the county fair association, of which he was a stockholder. He took a great deal of interest in politics and for two years, from 1894 to 1896, he was treasurer of the county and also filled the oflSce of county trustee for two years. Socially he was connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and his religious belief was indicated by the active support which he gave to the Presbyterian church. Mrs. McClure was a daughter of S. A. and Elizabeth (Scott) Bunting, the father a native of Pennsylvania and the mother of Knox county. They were the parents of thirteen children, of whom Sarah E. was the second in order of birth. There were seven children in the family of Mr. and Mrs. McClure: William, who died in infancy; Emma, the wife of J. R. Huddleson, of Chicago, and the mother of one child ; Effie, deceased ; Curtis T., of this review; and Louis P., Mary and Fannie, now living at home.

The subject of this review grew up upon the farm and attended the district schools of Knox county but, having shown a strong inclination for intellectual research, he became a student in Vincennes University and from that institution went to Lebanon, Ohio, where he entered the National Normal U^niversity, which was presided over by the celebrated Alfred Holbrook, one of the most remarkable teachers that this country has produced, who remembered the names of the students of his institution until they had accumulated to the number of more than thirty thousand. After returning from the university he resumed operations upon the farm and at twentyseven years of age purchased two hundred acres of land in donation No. 4, Palmyra township, where he has since continued, and he now enjoys the comfort and abundance which is the reward of rightly directed effort, being the fortunate owner of one of the valuable farming properties of the township.

In 1901 Mr. McClure was united in marriage to Miss Helen Niblack, a daughter of Sandford L. and Susan (Brooks) Niblack. Two children have brightened the home of Mr. and Mrs. McClure: Persis and Thornton Niblack. Although a young man and, therefore, just fairly launched upon his business career, Mr. McClure has gained and established a reputation as one of the substantial citizens of the county, whose success is founded on real worth and whose future is practically assured. As a business man he ranks very high, having demonstrated his reliability by a straight-forward course in all dealings with his fellowmen, from which he has never wavered. He and his estimable wife have many friends in the community where they make their home.

Albert M. Sheperd

The life of Albert M. Sheperd proves that a business, honestly conducted in accordance with the great laws which control all legitimate lines of trade, may rise to the forefront of the productive industries of the locality in which it is carried on. Never employing the methods of frenzied finance but giving adequate value for each dollar received, he has proven that the business which is conducted on the vahie for value system is the only one that tends to the prosperity of this great republic. The exactness of modern business methods has made the study of success a science and the life record of each truly successful man contains lessons of intrinsic value to all who would attain advancement and promotion. As the head of a paper manufactory of Vincennes, he is today one of the chief factors in commercial and manufacturing circles in this part of Indiana.

His birth occurred near Dayton, Ohio, July 22, 1864. He is a son of Jacob H. Sheperd, a native of Pennsylvania, who in his boyhood days went to Ohio with his father, Henry L. Sheperd, who was a native of Berne, Switzerland, and after coming to the new world lived for some time in the Keystone state ere his removal westward. Reared to agricultural pursuits, Jacob H. Sheperd followed the occupation of farming until 1884, when he turned his attention to the manufacture of paper in Piqua, Ohio. In 1886 he removed to Vincennes, where he organized the Vincennes Paper Company and established the paper manufacturing plant which he conducted until his death in 1893. In early manhood he had wedded Elizabeth Grimes, a native of Virginia and a representative of one of the old families of that state. She died in Vincennes in 1900 in the old William Henry Harrison home, passing away at the age of sixty-eight years, while the death of Mr. Sheperd occurred when he was sixty-seven years of age.

In the country schools of Ohio Albert M. Sheperd pursued his education and through vacation periods worked upon his father's farm. He was twenty years of age when his father turned his attention to the business of manufacturing paper and from the organization of the enterprise Albert M. Sheperd was associated therewith, thoroughly learning the business in principle and detail. He commenced at the very beginning and worked his way steadily upward, familiarizing himself with each branch of the trade. He came with his father to Vincennes in 1886 and upon the death of his father took charge of the business, which he has since conducted. At that time it was a comparatively small undertaking, but in the intervening years he has increased the trade five times and is now making further improvements and additions to the plant in order to meet the growing demands of the trade. He ships his product all over the United States and also exports his goods to Canada and foreign lands. He employs the most modern and improved processes in manufacturing and his well equipped factory enables him to turn out a product of excellent grade, which finds a ready sale on the market. In addition to his paper manufacturing interests Mr. Sheperd is the president of the American Filler Company, also of the Vincennes Egg Case Company and of the Vincennes Agency Company, all of which profit by his sound judgment and keen business discernment.

Mr. Sheperd was married in Vincennes to Miss Clara S. Burlingame, who was born near Lawrenceburg, Indiana. They have two sons, Howard and Dwight, but lost their youngest child, Helen, in 1900, when she was but four years of age.

Mr. Sheperd has long exercised his right of franchise in support of the principles of the republican party and has served as a memb»er of the city council for two terms from the third and fourth wards. He has devoted his time and attention to business and not to politics, however, yet is not neglectful of the duties of citizenship nor of his obligations to his fellowmen. He belongs to the Methodist church and his life has been guided by its teachings. He is a most highly respected man, who speaks today by his character, by his conduct, by his splendid success, to yotmg men to give up all fictitious methods of business and, returning to that which is honest, laborious and true, win not only prosperity but also the gratitude and honor of their fellowmen. Building upon the simple, old-fashioned principles of business that "honesty is the best policy" and that "there is no excellence without labor" he has gained a most creditable and gratifying position among the merchants and manufacturers of Vincennes.

Joseph L. Ebner

Joseph L. Ebner. one of the successful business men of Vincennes, was born in this city, January 6, 1863, and has always made his home here. He is a son of John and Catherine (Kuhn) Ebner, both natives of Alsace, France, now a part of Germany, the former born in 1817 and the latter in 1832. The father came to Vincennes about 1855 and engaged in the brewing and ice business. At that time one thousand pounds of ice a day was the limit. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Ebner: Magdalena, now Mrs. Joseph Schmidt, of Vincennes ; John Ebner, Jr., deceased ; Mary E., now the widow of Herman Wissing; Joseph L., the subject of this sketch; Lawrence A. ; and Teresa H., now the wife of George G. Schaller.

Joseph L. Ebner was educated in the German Catholic schools and high school of Vincennes, later attending for a year the college at Teutopolis, Illinois, under the management of the Franciscan Fathers. In 1880, at the age of seventeen, he left school and became assistant to his father in the ice business and has ever since been identified with business interests of this city. In 1889 he built the first ice plant in \^incennes, which was the second ice manufacturing plant erected in the state, the first having been erected at Evansville. In 1906 the ice plant, having a capacity of eighty tons per day, was sold to the Ebner Ice & Cold Storage Company, which now owns four ice plants with a capacity of two hundred tons per day. In addition to the ice business each plant has a cold storage department. The main cold storage building is constructed of brick with reinforced concrete columns and floors and is five stories in height, the capacity being sixty thousand barrels. The other three plants have a storage capacity of fifty thousand barrels, making a total of one hundred and ten thousand barrels. This is one of the most complete plants of the kind in the middle west. In addition to serving as president of the Ebner Ice & Cold Storage Company Mr. Ebner is vice president of the Vincennes Milk & Ice Cream Company. He is also a member of the board of directors of the First National Bank and for many years has been known as an important factor in the growth and prosperity of the city.

In 1887 Mr. Ebner was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Raben, who was born at St. Wendells, Indiana, in 1864, a daughter of Anthony and Mary (Tenbarge) Raben, natives of Holland. Her father was engaged in the general merchandise business and had the distinction of being the oldest postmaster in this state at the time of his death. Mrs. Ebner departed this life January 24, 1894. By her marriage she became the mother of three daughters, all of whom are now living: Vivia, born at Vincennes in 1888; Laurine, born in August, 1891 ; and Mary, bom in July 1893.

For nineteen years Mr. Ebner has been a member of the Vincennes Board of Trade and the esteem in which he is held by his business associates is indicated by the fact that he is one of its directors. He is recognized as a man of sound business principles, a competent manager of important enterprises, and as a citizen who aims to discharge his duties in such a way as to enhance the prosperity and happiness of all with whom he is identified.

W. S. Keith

W. S. Keith, postmaster of Bicknell and one of its most esteemed citizens, was bom in Knox county, February 2, 1850, and is a son of Warren C. and Elizabeth (Chambers) Keith. The father was a native of Kentucky. The maternal grandfather, Joseph Chambers, came to this region at a very early day, while the country was still occupied by Indians and when settlers were obliged to live in forts and carry guns as a protection whenever they traveled through the country. He was a successful farmer and a leader in the community, being active in establishing churches and schools and in the settlement of questions which arose in those early times. The mother of our subject was a woman of many excellent qualifications and greatly endeared herself to all with whom she was associated. She departed this life in 1876. There were ten children in the family : Angeline, deceased ; Nannie, deceased ; Maggie, of Vincennes ; W. S.. our subject ; Alice, deceased ; Joseph Lewis, of Indianapolis ; Jonathan, who became a lawyer of Vincennes and is now deceased ; Charles Spurgeon, formerly of Wichita, Kansas, now deceased ; and Milton and Morton, both of whom died in infancy.

W. S. Keith was educated in the common schools and grew up upon the home farm. At eighteen years of age he began to work at farm labor by the month and at the age of twenty-three he was married, after which he began farming on his own account, continuing until 1889, when he removed to Bicknell. Here he engaged in various lines of business until 1896, when he was appointed postmaster. At the time of his appointment the office be- longed to the fourth class but through his efforts it was advanced to the third class, October i, 1896. He has filled the position to the acceptance of the people of Bicknell and vicinity and also to the satisfaction of the officials at Washington. He is very careful and considerate in his management of affairs and devotes his entire attention to his duties. The business has grown until he now requires the aid of four assistants. Financially Air. Keith has prospered and he is the owner of a handsome and commodious residence on Sycamore street.

In 1873 he was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth A. Wallace, and to this union six children have been born : Stella, the wife of Frank Linn, of Bicknell ; Jesse C, who married Noma Phillippe and lives at Indianapolis ; Earl G., who married Mabel Bicknell and lives in Bicknell; ^nd Morton, Lottie and an infant, all deceased.

Politically Mr. Keith has from the time of casting his first ballot been a stanch supporter of the republican party. Socially he is identified with the Court of Honor and the Masonic fraternity, both of Bicknell. By his obliging disposition and kindness of heart he has attracted a wide circle of friends and acquaintances and his able discharge of official duties is an indication of his ability as a business man. His influence ever since he arrived at the age of discretion has always assisted in the promotion of good-will and of those qualities that contribute most to the development of useful character. Hence it is no exaggeration to say that he is one of the most popular men in Bicknell and that he enjoys the confidence of all with whom he associates either in social or business life.

Hamet D. Hinkle

Prominent both as a lawyer and a business man, Hamet D. Hinkle, of Vincennes, is well known in Knox county, where he has spent most of his life. He was born September 18, 1869. and is a son of James S. Hinkle. a native of Jefferson county, Kentucky, born April 28, 1839. The father came to Knox county in 1849, ^"d here engaged in farming. He married Eliza Walker, who was born in Sullivan county, Indiana, in 1841, and departed this life in that county in 1878. There were six children in the family, three sons and three daughters : Elzora, deceased ; John, who married Anna Jones and has two children ; Carrie, deceased ; Cora, now deceased, who became the wife of J. K. Harbin and the mother of one child ; Hamet D. ; and Charles, who married Sallie Spencer. The father was a second time married in 1886, to Mrs. Margaret Learned, and there were two children by this marriage, Pansy and Pearl, both at home.

Hamet D. Hinkle was educated in the public schools of Missouri, Illinois and Indiana, and after leaving the common schools, became a student at the Indiana State Normal School, from which he was graduated in 1895. He was for a number of years engaged in school teaching in Knox, Sullivan and Bartholomew counties, Indiana, and purchased a farm on which he lived during the last six years as a teacher. Although successful in an)^hing he undertook, he felt attracted to the legal profession and, disposing of his farm, he came to Vincennes and studied law in the office of C. B. Kessinger and was admitted to the bar in 1907. He has since engaged in practice and has his office in the new La Plante building, Having been interested in land and real-estate transactions for a number of years on his own account, his practice consists largely of probate business, in which he is meeting with remarkable success, and in his own real-estate operations he has shown a judgment almost phenomenal, as he is now the owner of eighty acres of land in Lawrence county, Illinois, three hundred acres in Sullivan county, Indiana, and one hundred and fourteen acres in Knox county and also is heavily interested in real estate in Vincennes. Eighty acres of his land is very valuable on account of the extensive oil deposits.

On March 31, 1898, Mr. Hinkle was married in Knox county to Miss Grace McClure, who was born in McDonough county, Illinois, in 1872. Her father, Rev. Thornton S. McClure, was born in Knox county in 1833 and is well known as a Presbyterian minister. The mother, Melissa Lounsdale, is a native of Pike county, Indiana. Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Hinkle: Hamet, Jr., born January 10, 1905; and Helen Elzora, May 21, 1907. The wife and mother died August 14, 1907, and on November 14, 1909, Mr. Hinkle was married to Miss Grace Prow, one of the leading supervisors of music in the state, who was born at Salem, Indiana, April 7, 1875. She is a daughter of Fred L. and Lucretia (Montgomery) Prow, the former born in Lawrence county, Indiana, in 1840, and the latter in the same county in 1847.

Mr. Hinkle has been prominently identified with the prohibition party in Knox county and was twice a candidate upon its ticket for prosecuting attorney of the county, receiving at the time of his second candidacy fifteen hundred and fifty votes, which was thirteen hundred and fifty more votes than there were prohibitionists in the county. He is a stanch supporter of the Methodist church and is a member of the official board. As indicated above, he has been in a very high degree successful financially. At the time of his marria|;e his worldly possessions consisted of eightytwo dollars in money. Six years later he had accumulated ten thousand dollars and at the present time he is one of the well-to-do men of Knox county. In the various relations of life Mr. Hinkle has so conducted himself as to make many friends and to retain the confidence and respect of every community where he is known. The possessor of unusual sagacity, he is recognized as one of the clear-headed business men of the county. He is a man of unsullied integrity and strong convictions, and is absolutely fearless when he feels himself to be in the right. He has never courted popularity and would rather go down in defeat in a good cause than to win in one that he felt to be wrong. All enterprises aiming to secure the best good of the people financially, socially or morally have found in him a steadfast friend.

Steen township can claim no more worthy or respected resident than the one whose name stands at the head or this review. For fifty years she has noted the progress of events in that part of Knox county and she and those with whom she has been identified have assisted most creditably in upholding the welfare of the township. Born in Lawrence county, Indiana, February 5, 1840, she is a daughter of Alfred C. Hamm, who was bom in Madison county, Kentucky, June 27, 1812. He removed to Lawrence county in his boyhood. There he was educated, grew to manhood and learned the carpenter's trade, to which he devoted a large part of his life. He was highly successful in his calling and by an honest and straightforward course in business affairs, he gained the respect of all with whom he came in contact. Originally a member of the old whig party, he became affiliated with its successor, the republican party, of which he was an ardent supporter. As a believer in the inspiration of the Bible, he was also a supporter of the church and held membership in the Methodist denomination. In December, 1830, he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Ann Knight, who was born in Lawrence county, Indiana, June 15, 1819. Her father was a farmer and a native of Kentucky. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Hamm, three of whom are now living.

Henrietta Hamm was educated in the public schools and grew to womanhood under the protection of a kindly home. On June 5, i860, she was united in marriage to Dr. Jefferson R. Lytton, who was bom June 5, 1833, in Lawrence county, and after having obtained his preliminary education in the common schools, he attended the State LTniversity at Bloomington and later entered a medical college at Louisville, Kentucky, from which he was graduated with the degree of M. D. Immediately after they were married the young couple came to Knox county and Dr. Lytton here began practicing his prof ession in i860. Having been well prepared for his duties and being a man of fine natural attainments, he soon gained the confidence of the community and was eminently successful as a practitioner. He also possessed unusual business capacity and acquired six hundred acres of land in the county besides some town property and during the later years of his life lived retired from practice and devoted his attention to his private interests. Politically he was an adherent of the democratic party and socially a valued member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He was called from earthly scenes October 2, 1904, and the general expression of regret at that time was evidence of the high esteem in which he was held by the community.

Unto Dr. and Mrs. Lytton were bom eight children, namely : Gertrude, deceased ; Jessie ; Sallie ; Gilbert ; Lydia ; Walter ; Frank, deceased ; and Ralph. Jessie is the wife of A. C. Nicholson and has five children: Irene, Henrietta, Lytton, Gene and Hugh. Of these Irene is now Mrs. Langdon and has one son, Louis. Gilbert Lytton has eight children : Raymond, Louise, John, Floyd, Lawrence, Ralph, Hugh and a baby boy.

Mrs. Lytton is the owner of a fine farm of one hundred and fifty acres and also of town property which came to her from her husband. Her ear is always open to the call of distress and she is ever willing to assist in every worthy cause that seeks to soften or remove the ills of the unfortunate. A descendant of pioneers, she understands the difficulties under which many labor in seeking to establish a home and she also knows the value of a home after it is once secured. She has the esteem of a wide circle of friends and acquaintances who recognize in her those qualities which are most essential in contributing to the comfort and happiness of life and which are the foundation of all that is estimable in human character.

Mrs. Virginia M. Dunn

Among the highly esteemed women of Knox county is Mrs. Virginia M. Dunn, a native of this county and a descendant of southern ancestry, her father, John W. Allen, having been a native of Abbeville county. South Carolina. Her mother, who bore the maiden name of Mary E. Brewer, was a native of Berkeley county. West Virginia, born September 29, 181 1. Mr. Allen was born January 8, 1804, and received his education in the public schools of his native state. Desiring to possess wider opportunities than were presented in South Carolina, he emigrated to Indiana at an early day and here he was married September 23, 1831. He became one of the successful farmers of Knox county, a man of unimpeachable character and one who inspired the highest respect in those with whom he was associated. Three children came to bless the home of Mr. and Mrs. Allen; Charles W., deceased ; Virginia, of this review ; and Francis.

Mrs. Dunn grew up under the favoring influences of a kindly home and received a good education in the neighboring schools. On the 24th of December, 1863, she was happily united in marriage to Samuel L. Dunn, who was a son of Joseph Dunn, a native of Ireland. The father came to America in his boyhood and located in Knox county, Indiana, but later removed to Daviess county, where he continued upon a farm until his death. Samuel L. Dunn received a common-school education and early became acquainted with agriculture and stock-raising, to which he devoted his energies until his death, which occured in 1875. He was a man of sound judgment, industrious and thorough in everything he undertook and the possessor of a generous and friendly nature which gained for him many friends. Socially he was identi- fied with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and for many years up to the time of his death he was a valued member of the Methodist Episcopal church and served as trustee and Sunday school superintendent, devoting to these duties the same interest that he displayed in his private affairs. He accumulated a handsome competence, the estate going to his wife at the time of his death.

Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Dunn : Mary Frances, who became the wife of William Sanders and is the mother of three children; Ula, deceased ; Richard C, who is married and is the father of six children ; Emma, now living at home ; Violet, the wife of William J. Commer ; and Katy, deceased. Mrs. Dunn occupies the family homestead, which is endeared to her by many fond associations, and in the evening of life, brightened by many acts of kindness and unselfishness, she enjoys the confidence not only of her relatives but of all with whom she comes into contact. She is the owner of a farm of one hundred and twenty acres in Steen township and of three houses and lots in Wheatland and is a liberal contributor to all worthy charities and to all causes that have for their purpose the advancement of the community.

George Turbett

Among the native sons of Indiana who have attained success as farmers and have gained an honored place in the estimation of their fellows may be named George Turbett, of Johnson township, Knox county. He was bom in the township where he now lives, January 6, 1850, and is a son of Henry and Nellie (Mays) Turbett, the former of whom was bom in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, June 6, 1801, and the latter in Johnson township, this county, November 4, 1806. Mr. Turbett, Sr., was one of the pioneer settlers of the state and became the owner of three hundred acres of land. He was a brave and capable man and served in the Black Hawk war as captain, being greatly esteemed by all who knew him. He was called away February 25, 1859, at the age of fifty-eight years. The beloved mother died September 17, 1876. There were ten children in the family : Nancy, Mary, Lewis, Betsey, Jane, William, Martin, James, George and Prudence.

George Turbett was educated in the district schools and early became acquainted with all kinds of work pertaining to agriculture and stock-raising. Even as a lad he showed a natural adaptability to farming pursuits and later he became known as one of the most enterprising and progressive farmers of the township. He is the owner of two hundred and sixteen acres of land, which he cleared and improved, building a commodious residence and barns and making it one of the most attractive landed possessions in the region. He raises wheat, corn and oats upon an extensive scale and also gives a great deal of attention to the breeding of thoroughbred shorthorn cattle and Poland

China hogs. He has sold from his place some of the finest specimens of the breeds named that have during recent years been sent out of the county.

On the 28th of January, 1877, Mr. Turbett was happily united in marriage to Adelia Turpin, of Johnson township, a daughter of Isaac and EHzabeth (Leathers) Turpin. The father was born in Kentucky and the mother in Gibson county, Indiana. They were the parents of four children: Jane, Adelia, Catherine and Calvin. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Turbett has been brightened by the arrival of four children: Royse, Travis, Opal and Lelia. Mr. Turbett is a staunch supporter of the democratic party and fraternally is identified with the Tribe of Ben Hur at Decker. He is a valued member of the United Brethern church, to which he contributes liberally. He has from his boyhood been identified with farming interests and has shown an energy and ability that seldom fail to meet with just recognition.

Modest and unassuming in his manner, he has made many friends, who often seek his advice in matters pertaining to stock breeding, as it is generally acknowledged by his acquaintances that he is an expert in this line, having made the subject one of the principal studies of his life. He has attained his responsible position through his own efforts and deserves the honor that he now enjoys.

Charles M. Wright

Charles M. Wright, well known in Knox county as a business man and banker and one who has reflected credit upon all with whom he has been associated, was born at Edwardspdrt. Knox county, April 16, 1868. He is a son of Amos M. and Anne Elizabeth Wright, both of whom are now living at Edwardsport. The father was born in Washington county, Indiana, August 7, 1841. He was a son of Amos and Jane (Gross) Wright, the former of whom was a native of Kentucky and came to Indiana before the state was admitted to the Union. He was born in 1805 and died at the age of seventy-five years, in 1880, being well known as a minister of the Christian church. Jane (Gross) Wright was a native of Virginia and came with her parents to Indiana in the early days, departing this life in June, 1870. Seven children were born to Amos and Jane (Gross) Wright, two of whom died in infancy. Isaac died at Danville, Kentucky, in a hospital while serving in the United States army at the time of the Cvil war. Nathan B. and Levi P. grew to maturity and are deceased. Lavina, the widow of John Huston, is now living at Edwardsport. Amos M. was educated in the country schools of Washington county and moved with the family to Middletown, Indiana, at eleven years of age, locating at Edwardsport in i860. Just as he was beginning his active career the Civil war aroused the patriotism of young men throughout the north and he enlisted in Company C, Eightieth Indiana Infantry, in which he served for three years, becoming a sergeant of his company. He was present at several of the great battles in which the Army of the West participated, among which were Perryville and Resaca, receiving a severe wound in the latter battle. After spending ten months in the hospital he rejoined his regiment and continued in active service until the expiration of three years. Upon receiving his honorable discharge he came home and for a year and a half was engaged in the wagonmakng business. He then devoted his attention to farming, later removing to town, where he lived until 1880, since which time he has resided in a comfortable home in the suburbs of Edwardsport. He is the fortunate owner of a farm of one hundred and eighty-two acres in Knox county. Here he has made many improvements and some years ago rebuilt the commodious dwelling which stands upon the place. He is also the owner of a fine farm of two hundred and twenty-three acres on the river bottom and his wife owns one hundred and four acres in Daviess county just across the river. For the past four years he has lived retired. In 1867 Mr. Wright married Miss Anne Elizabeth Hulen, and ten children came to bless the union; Charles AI., the subject of this review; Fanny B., the wife of Mitchell P. Barr, of Edwardsport; John N., a farmer living near Edwardsport; Mary M., at home; Cora F., who is in the bank with her brother; Elsie E., the wife of Christan French, of Vigo township; Bessie B., at home; Bernard, a farmer of Daviess county ; and Emma J. and Rebecca A., both deceased. Politically Mr. Wright is in sympathy with the principles of the republican party and is a stanch believer in its platforms. He accepts the Bible as containing the revealed word and is a member of the Chrstian church, being a man of unimpeachable character, who is known as one of the progressive and successful citizens of Knox county.

Charles M. Wright was educated in the common schools and followed the occupation of farming continuously for many years with the exception of a period of four years, during which he was manager of a store. In 1905 he took charge of the bank at Edwardsport as cashier, S. T. De Moss, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work, being president, and R. O. Beebe, vice president. In the banking business he has shown an aptitude which has produced very gratifying results and has won for him a creditable place in the financial circles of this part of the state. The bank with which he is identified is an important factor in the community and its success is in a very large degree due to the enterprise and ability of its manager, although the other gentlemen connected with the bank are also entitled to great credit for the ability they have displayed in the conduct of its affairs. In addition to his banking interest Mr. Wrght is the owner of property in Edwardsport and of real-estate holdings elsewhere.

In 1890 our subject was united in marriage to Miss Kittie Perkins, of Edwardsport, and four children have been born to the union : Leone, Russell, Mildred and Milton. Mr. Wright, like his father, is an upholder of the republican party. He is a member of tht Independent Order of Odd Fellows, in which he now fills the offices of scribe and trustee, and also holds membership in the encampment and the Modern Woodmen of America, being a leading officer of the local lodge of Woodmen. His religious views are indicated by connection with the Christan church, to which his wife also belongs. He is an earnest worker of the church and as deacon has assisted in establishing it as one of the piominent instrumentahties in the upbuilding of the community. Through industry and application he advanced until he reached a position where he has opportunity to assist greatly in the permanent development of the region with whose resources he is thoroughly acquainted. It is hardly necessary to say that he is doing everything in his power for its development.

George W. Phillippe, Jr

A prosperous farmer and highly respected citizen, who has gained a large degree of success through well directed ambition, is George W. Phillippe, Jr., of Bicknell. He was born in Vigo township, this county, January 17, 1855, and is a son of Josiah and Maria (Streepy) Phillippe. The father was born in Wythe county, Virginia, but after growing up he decided that more favorable opportunities lay westward and he came to Knox county, where he made his home during the remainder of his life, being called away at the age of sixty-nine years, in 1900. His remains were deposited at Asberry Chapel. He was a man of very high character and unimpeachable standing in the community and was more than ordinarily successful in his business affairs. Politically he supported the democratic party and always showed great interest in advancing the cause both locally and nationally. He was a stanch member of the Methodist church and one of five leading citizens who contributed most liberally to its support in the region where he lived. The mother was born in Vigo township and lived there during her entire life. There were five children in the family, of which our subject was the eldest, the others being: Mary J., now the wife of Wesley Cleveland, of Bicknell, a record of whom appears elsewhere in this work ; Elizabeth, the wife of Frank P. Wampler, of Bicknell; Rebecca, now Mrs. Joseph Hickman, of Bicknell; and E. J., of Fort Cobb, Oklahoma.

The subject of this review was educated in the subscription school, where he received a good foundation in mental training, upon which he has built with a high degree of success. He early evinced an inclination for farming pursuits and has never regretted that he turned his energies in that direction. Until reaching the age of twenty-nine years he remained upon the home farm and then he began upon his own account, first buying eighty acres from his uncle, H. H. Streepy. As his means increased he added forty acres to his farm and now owns a beautiful place of one hundred and twenty acres, upon which he has expended more than five thousand dollars in improvements, making it one of the most valuable landed possessions in this part of the country. He has followed general farming but specializes in fine chickens, of the bufif Plymouth Rock variety ; and has gained a wide reputation on account of the excellence of his stock. The business is carried forward under the title of Phillippe & Son and each year grows in volume and importance under the able management of men thoroughly qualified to carry it forward.

On November 9, 1883, Mr. Phillippe was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Enochs, a resident of Sullivan county, this state, and two children blessed the union : Margaret M., the wife of Province A. Abraham, of Sandborn ; and James Elbert, who was born January 8, 1889, and is a graduate of the common schools. He is now assisting his father upon the farm and shows a proficiency which is highly pleasing to his parents.

Politically Mr. Phillippe is inclined to be independent, often voting for a candidate irrespective of the party he represents. At the same time our subject is inclined to favor the democracy, as he admires its advocacy of individual liberty. For twenty-two years past he has been a working member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, as is shown by the fact that he has passed through all the chairs of the lodge and encampment. He also holds membership in the Royal Neighbors and Modern Woodmen of America, having filled all the chairs in the latter organization. He and his wife and daughter are members of the Rebekahs, the ladies' auxiliary of the Odd Fellows lodge.

Mr. Phillippe belongs to the class of men who generally accomplish what they set out to do. He has energy, perseverance and an abundance of ability - three traits that assure success to any person so fortunate as to possess them. Our object has many friends in Knox county and elsewhere, who recognize his good qualities and who will read with pleasure this record of a worthy citizen of one of the most progressive and thriving communities in the state.

Ira V Corbin

Ira V. Corbin, cashier of the Sandborn Banking Company and for a number of years past recognized as an active factor in the business and financial interests of Knox county, was born in Jefferson township, Sullivan county, Indiana, December 25, 1862, a son of Moses and Emeline (Douthitt) Corbin. The father, who was also a native of Sullivan county and one of its successful farmers, departed this life in January, 1905, after a long and useful career, in the course of which he displayed many of those estimable characteristics that contribute to high character. He was a patriotic citizen, presenting himself for enlistment at the time of the Civil war in the cause of the Union but was rejected as he failed to qualify physically. Two of his brothers, however, donned the blue and served faithfully during the

Rebellion. The grandfather of our subject, Vincent W. Corbin, was a native of Kentucky and an early settler of Indiana. The mother was born in Sullivan county and was called to her final rest in 1888. There were five children in the family: William F., of Oklahoma; Ira V., our subject; Sarah the wife of John E. Keith, of Bicknell ; Edward M., now a practicing physician of Sullivan, Indiana; and Charles M., deceased.

The subject of this review received his early education in the common schools and later pursued a commercial course in the Danville Business College. In 1887, being then twenty-five years of age and having gained some knowledge of commercial aflfairs, he, in connection with others, opened a general store at Sandborn in a room adjoining the building where the bank with which he is connected is located. For ten years he conducted the business successfully, at the end of which time he closed out his stock and began farming just across the county line in Greene county. He continued upon the farm for five years and then in 1903 organized the bank of which he is now cashier, a position which he has held ever since the institution was opened. In 1905 the bank was changed from a private to a state bank and the capital stock has been increased from ten thousand to twenty-five thousand dollars. George J. Singer is president and George R. Alsop, vice president, both well known men of this county. In 1906 the safe of the bank was blown open and four thousand dollars in money and seventy-five thousand dollars in notes were stolen. However, nothing was lost to the stockholders, as the depositors were fully protected by insurance and the bank was reimbursed for every dollar taken from the safe. The robbers were never apprehended. The prudence and foresight of the management of the bank in protecting its patrons was recognized by depositors and citizens and as a result the bank has become one of the prosperous and flourishing institutions of Knox county, now holding deposits of one hundred and twenty thousand dollars. While engaged in farming Mr. Corbin also dealt in live stock quite extensively and became one of the well known shippers from this region. For some years he has devoted his entire attention to financial matters and has acquired a deserved reputation as thoroughly conservative and capable in anything he undertakes. He is the owner of a well improved farm near Sandborn and of a beautiful town residence and five other houses and lots.

In 1891 Air. Corbin was united in marriage to Miss Mollie Neggel and three children have been born of the union : Ira M., now bookkeeper in the bank; Evelyn E. ; and John M. Politically Mr. Corbin's views are in accord with the platform of the republican party, he believing from his observation and experience in business aflfairs, that this party is best adapted to direct the aflfairs of the country. While he has not sought public office, he served with general acceptance as trustee of the township for two years and was a member of the first township board. Socially he is identified with the Masonic order and with the Tribe of Ben Hur, serving at the present time as treasurer of the latter organization. By years of steadfast integrity he has gained recognition as a man whose character will stand the closest scrutiny. In business he is alert, energetic and clear-sighted and as a citizen he has made it the practice of his life to do everything in his power for the advancement of the permanent interests of the community. By his friends he is known as a true type of American citizenship.

John R. Miller

John R. Miller, whose home is in Widner township, Knox county, is of stalwart Teutonic ancestry. He was born on a farm in Widner township, one and one-half miles north of his present location, April 13, 1864, and is a son of August J. and Wilhelmina (Wallerman) Miller, both of whom were natives of Hammerstein, Germany. August J. Miller came to America with his family in 1857, ^"d after spending a year at Louisville. Kentucky, settled on a farm owned by Charles Harper, near Edwardsport, this county. Here he continued for one year, when he purchased forty acres from Mr. Charles Harper, which he carefully cultivated for seven years. Having accumulated sufficient means, he moved to a farm on section 4, Vigo township, and there he lived until his death, in December, 1891. He became one of the flourishing farmers of Knox county and was a man of excellent character and high reputation. The beloved mother was called to her reward in 1872. Six children brightened the home of Air. and Mrs. Miller: Augusta, deceased in 1903 ; Samuel J., a record of whom appears elsewhere in this work; Joseph, who died in 1908; John R.. a farmer of Vigo township; Henry C, also of Vigo township; and Sarah J., who is married and lives in Washington township, Knox county.

John R. Miller was educated in the district schools of Vigo township and after laying aside his books devoted his attention to the home farm, assisting his father and also performing his part in administering to the comfort of the other members of the family. At twenty-seven years of age he began upon his own account, going upon the land which he now occupies. He is the owner of an attractive place of one hundred and twelve acres, which he has improved by his industry and good judgment and it is now one of the valuable farms of the township. Here he tills the soil according to approved modern methods and also raises live stock which he sends to the market in first class condition.

In 1894 Mr. Miller took unto himself a life companion, selecting as the lady of his choice Aliss Minnie Holman, of Vincennes. They are the parents of an interesting family of six children: Ruth, Augusta, Christabel, Bertha, Wilma and Miriam.

Mr. Miller since arriving at manhood has been an adherent of the republican party. He is a sincere believer in the inspiration of the Bible and is a member of the Baptist church, assisting to the extent of his ability in any cause in which the church is interested. In his estimable wife he has been greatly blessed, as she is not only a loving helpmate and useful companion, but a safe adviser. No couple stands higher in the estimation of the people of the neighborhood than the worthy subject of his review and his deserving wife.

Samuel T. De Moss, of Edwardsport, is one of the enterprising men of Knox county and his ability is not limited to one department of activity, for he appears to be equally successful in farming, merchandising or in the handling of finances. A native of Knox county, he has been for many years a witness of its wonderful development and has materially assisted as a public-spirited and progressive citizen in the growth of one of the most attractive and promising regions of the state. He comes of sturdy pioneer ancestry and was born in Vigo township, October 5, 1856. His parents were Isaac and Louisa (Reeves) De Moss, the former having been born in Fleming county, Kentucky, in 1833. His grandfather, William De Moss, came to Cicero, Hamilton county, Indiana, about 1830, but he only remained there for two years, as he apparently met with grave obstacles, for food and money were so scarce that he was obliged to pawn his Bible for corn meal. He returned to Kentucky but later with his family came to Indiana and located near High Rock. Daviess county, where he engaged in farming.

Isaac De Moss located at Edwardsport, Knox county, when he was about eighteen years of age and continued there during the remainder of his life except while in the Union army. He enlisted in Company C, Eightieth Indiana Regiment, and took part in some of the principal battles of the war, among which were Perryville, Franklin and Nashville. He was also with General Thomas in his southern campaign and at the close of his period of enlistment, which was for three years and during which he served as corporal of his company, he was honorably discharged. Previous to the war he was an adherent of the democratic party but after his return home he was a stanch republican. The mother of our subject was born in Reeve township, Daviess county, and was a member of one of the old families of that county, her father being Joseph Reeves, a well known pioneer. Her marriage occurred in Vigo township, in 1855, and she departed this life April 18, 1864, leaving two children : Samuel T. ; and Marion, who died in 1866. The father was again married in 1867 to Miss Laura J. Johnson and two children were born to this union : William, who died in infancy ; and J. F., a farmer now living at Edwardsport. The father was called away October 19, 1900.

Samuel T. De Moss received his education in the district schools and also at the schools of Edwardsport. On starting out in life for himself he commenced farming in Vigo township. He lived near Bruceville for a num- ber of years, his time being devoted to agricultural pursuits, but in 1894 came to Edwardsport, where he has since remained. Here he entered the grocery business and later became the head of a general store, which he conducted with a high degree of success, engaging also in other enterprises. He is now president of the Edwardsport Bank and owns practically the entire stock. He is also identified with the milling business and owns forty-one out of fifty shares in the elevator just completed. For five years he was actively engaged in the lumber business but has practically suspended operations in that line. He is owner of a tract of four hundred acres of land in the White river bottom and is largely interested in real estate in Edwardsport, standing today among the important factors in the business life of Knox county.

On July 27, 1881, Mr. De Moss was united in marriage to ]\liss Sarah F. Winkler, a resident of Knox county. Five children have blessed this union : Flora, now Mrs. Robert Barr, of Edwardsport, and the mother of two children - Gilbert and Leone ; Bessie, the wife of John Wolfe, of Freelandville, and the mother of two children - Pauline and Glen; and Samuel I., Alice and George W.. all at home.

Mr. De Moss has always been found trustworthy and faithful in his dealings so that his life record is one to be proud of. No man in Knox county stands higher in the esteem of friends and acquaintances. Politically he is a supporter of the republican party, whose principles he heartily espouses. While not affiliated with any religious denomination, he is in sympathy with all efforts to advance the permanent welfare of his fellowmen and every good work finds in him a stanch supporter.

Albert B. Chambers

Albert B. Chambers was a lifelong resident of Knox county and a man of much prominence in the community by reason of his sterling worth and public-spirited citizenship. He never sought to figure, however, in public life, content to concentrate his energies upon the business interests which claimed his attention. He was born in Widner township in the year 1827, at which time this section of the state was largely a frontier region, and therefore in his youthful days he met many of the hardships and experiences which are characteristic of pioneer life. He acquired his education in the early subscription schools of the county at a period before the public school system was well organized, and in early manhood he started out in life on his own account. He had many difficulties and obstacles to overcome but by perseverance and force of character he worked his way steadily upward. From his meager earnings in young manhood he saved up what he could and in time had accumulated a sufficient sum to enable him to purchase a tract of land. This he at once began to cultivate and improve and as his crops were harvested he added to his capital and later bought more land. Thus investing from time to time, he eventually became the owner of two hundred and thirty acres which he held to the time of his death.

In the year 1852 Mr. Chambers was united in marriage to Miss Mary B. Williams, who was born in Wayne county, Indiana, in 1832, and was, therefore, about five years his junior. This marriage was blessed with two children but the elder daughter, Rosa Bell, is now deceased. The younger daughter, Emily Florence, became the wife of James Mumaw and they have three children. Alberta, Charles Ray and Goldie C.

]\Ir. Chambers was long a devoted and earnest Christian man. He joined the Maria Creek Baptist church of which he was a member for over half of a century, and all that time was an active worker, doing all in his power to promote the growth and extend the influence of the denomination. His many sterling traits of character gained him the unqualified confidence and regard of all who knew him. His life was characterized by a spirit of patriotism that prompted his stalwart support of all measures and movements which he deemed would prove of benefit to his home locality, his state and the nation. The honors and emoluments of office had no attraction for him and he was ever content that others should hold the public positions. He preferred to give his energies to his farm work and by reason of the careful management of his business afifairs he at length came to be ranked with the representative farmers of the county. In all of his dealings he was strictly fair and honorable and he left to his family not only a comfortable competence but also the priceless heritage of an untarnished name. His widow still survives him and is now pleasantly located upon the home farm in Widner township where she has so long resided.

Enoch Steen Cox

Enoch Steen Cox, of Bicknell, is of good pioneer stock, the early members of the family locating in Knox county, about ninety years ago, and contributing liberally of their strength and ability in the development of this part of the state. Our subject was born in Washington township, this county, April 28, 1856, and is a son of John T. and Naomi (Steen) Cox. The father was a native of Shelby county, Kentucky, where he was born in 1820. He came to this county with his parents in 1822, when the country was largely a wilderness, the family locating near Westphalia, but later moving to Washington township, where the father died. He was twice married, his first wife being Nancy Robinson, who became the mother of three children : John, ex-sheriflf of Knox county, now living in Bicknell ; Jonathan, of Vincennes ; and Harmon. There were nine children born to the second marriage of John T. Cox, three of whom died in infancy. The other members of the family were: Enoch Steen, our subject; James, a farmer of

Washington township, this county ; Richard, now living on the old home place; Logan, deceased; Naomi, the wife of Sam Kitts, of Widner township ; and Caroline, at home.

Educated in the district schools, the subject of this review grew up upon the farm and early became acquainted with its various operations. He continued at home until forty years of age, when he took unto himself a wife, since which time he has been identified with farming interests and also has built up an excellent reputation as a horse breeder. In order to facilitate his business in the latter line he now lives on a place just outside of Bicknell and has a well earned reputation as a safe and reliable breeder of good stock.

In 1896 our subject was happily united in marriage to Miss Ella May Keith. One child, Naomi Robertine, has blessed the union. She was born October 2, 1897, and is now attending school. Mr. Cox is a valued member of the local lodge of the Masonic fraternity, in which he has held several offices. He and his wife are identified with the Order of the Eastern Star.

William C. Bierhaus

The business interests of \"incennes are ably represented by William C. Bierhaus, who for a score of years past has been actively identified with the wholesale grocery business, of this city. He was born in Knox county, December 30, 1863, a son of Edward Bierhaus, who was born in Eberfeld, Germany, and came to Knox county in 1848, being engaged for many years in the wholesale grocery business in Vincennes. The mother bore the maiden name of Louisa Schupman. There were eight children in the family ; Charles, a record of whom appears elsewhere in this work ; Henry, who married Miss Lizzie Schroyer, of New Castle, Indiana ; Frederick, who married Annie Pasche, of Knox County ; Edward, Jr., who married Alice Banner, of Knox County; William C, of this review ; John, who married Hannah Gibson, of Vincennes ; Emma, now Mrs. Rudolph Giesler, of Chicago ; and Anna, now Mrs. Edward Clark, of Vincennes.

William C. Bierhaus was educated in the public schools of this city and upon laying aside his books began assisting in his father's grocery establishment. After ten years' experience he became associated with his brother Edward in 1890 in the wholesale grocery business and eight years later sold a third interest in the concern to John W. Crook. The firm has continued ever since it was founded under the title of Bierhaus Brothers and makes a specialty of the Yale brand of goods, including canned goods, cigars, spices, cofifees, etc., and is shipping extensively to points in Illinois and Indiana. The firm started upon a small scale at the corner of Second and Busseron streets with one traveling man. Later they removed to the location now occupied by John Bey and at the present time occupy their own building, which is built of brick and consists of five stories with basement, covering a quarter of a block at Perry and Second streets. There is a constantly growing demand for goods handled by this firm and the territory covered by its seven traveling men is steadily enlarging, indicating sound business management and a correct knowledge of the demands of the trade.

On January 31, 1888, Mr. Bierhaus was united in marriage to Miss Lottie Watkin, a native of Mount Camiel, Illinois, and a daughter of Thomas Watkin, who is a general merchant and handles groceries, hardware and harness. Three children have been born to them : Bonnie Belle ; Thomas William, deceased ; Karl Merlin.

Mr. Bierhaus is affiliated with the Methodist church and is a member of the Masonic order, in which he has attained the thirty-second degree being a Shriner. He also holds membership in the Order of Ben Hur, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Knights of Pythias, the Royal Arcanum, the Travelers Protective Association, the United Commercial Travelers, the Indiana Commercial Travelers and the Pastime Club. By attention to his responsibilities and the exercise of sound judgment Mr. Bierhaus has attained deserved success in the business world. Living in a comfortable home, presided over by his excellent wife, who has been to him an invaluable companion for more than twenty years, Mr. Bierhaus has arrived at the age when he can in peace and prosperity enjoy the good things of life. Such are the results of well directed effort. His career has been an honorable one and he occupies a position among the useful and worthy citizens of Vincennes.

Dr. Richard H. Fox, a highly successful practitioner of the healing art, whose home is at Freelandville, Widner township, was born November 7, 1868, in Washington township, a son of Adam and Susan Ann (Cullop) Fox. Adam Fox was born in Wythe county, Virginia, January 24, 1824, and came to Knox county at five years of age with his parents, Henry and Katherine (Snider) Fox, who located on a farm three miles east of Bruceville. The father of our subject was a cabinet-maker by trade and was a well informed man, having obtained a good education in his native state. He worked at his trade and also upon a farm and for a number of years was teacher of a subscription school, where he inducted the boys of the neighborhood into the various branches of learning. He was a man of good business ability and for many years served as justice of the peace in his township. He was called from earthly scenes May 12, 1903. The mother of our subject was a daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Cullop and a member of one of the oldest and most prominent families of Knox county. The marriage of Adam Fox and Susan Ann Cullop was consummated in 1857 and they were the parents of six children : Leila Ada ; Joseph, who is married and is the father of two children ; Emma, deceased ; Richard Henry, of this review ; Nora, who died in infancy ; and William Washington.

Dr. Fox was educated in the schools at Bruceville and for a number of years assisted his father upon the farm in summer and taught school in the winter. In the meantime, however, he decided to follow a professional career and in January, 1896, entered the Kentucky School of Medicine at Louisville, from which he was graduated with the degree of M. D., June 28, 1898. Returning to Knox county, he began practice at Freelandville, where he has since continued with marked success, and has acquired an extensive patronage throughout his part of the county.

On September 6, 1899, Dr. Fox was united in marriage to Miss Nellie B. Simpson, of Bruceville, and two children have blessed their union, Maurice S. and Katherine. Dr. Fox has not been a seeker for public office but on November 3, 1908, he was elected county trustee of Knox county and has since served in that position, displaying a judgment which has met the hearty approval of the citizens. Socially he is identified with Lodge No. 326, I. O. O. F. ; Lodge No. 7761, M. W. A.; and the Royal Neighbors. He owns his home and office property in Freelandville and by a public-spirited and progressive course in life has easily become one of the leaders in an intelligent community where true worth is recognized A man of fine educational attainments. Dr. Fox has a well selected library of professional and literary works and his books are to him a constant source of inspiration and pleasure.

Theodore Wampler

Theodore Wampler, who is the owner of over three hundred acres of good Knox county land and is recognized as one of its substantial citizens, was born in Vigo township, this county, November 23, 1851. He is a son of Joseph and Amanda J. (Davison) Wampler. The father was born in Wythe county, Virginia, and came to Knox county at a very early day, locating at Fort Knox. Later he acquired land in Vigo township, where he continued until his death. He was one of the prominent men of the county and served for one term as county commissioner, being allied with the democratic party. The mother was also a native of Wythe county. She came to Knox county with her parents and here she was married. There were eight children in the family, two of whom died in infancy, the others being: Polly, the widow of I. F. Boyer; George R., a farmer of Vigo township; James Mitchel, of Vincennes ; Theodore, our subject; and David and Milton, both engaged in farming in Vigo township.

The subject of this review was educated in the common schools of Washington township and as he grew up he became thoroughly acquainted with the various details of general farming. He remained at home until twenty-six years of age and then began for himself by purchasing the farm on which he now lives. He owns altogether three hundred and seven acres, which he has acquired entirely through his own efforts. The land has been brought to a high state of cultivation and the family dwelling is one of the handsomest in this vicinity. On December 20, 1883, Mr. Wampler was united in marriage to Miss Martha Ellen Seirp, and four children have blessed the union : Charles E., W. Cyrus, Joel R. and Noble E., all of whom are at home. Politically Mr. Wampler is in hearty sympathy with the democratic party, believing that its principles are most conducive to the permanent welfare of the state and nation. Socially he is a valued member of the Masonic fraternity and he and his wife both hold membership in the Order of the Eastern Star. They are also identified with the Methodist Episcopal church and by consistent and upright lives they have attracted many friends and are recognized as worthy members of an intelligent and progressive community.

John P. Gregory

John P. Gregory, a popular and successful business man of Sanborn, was born near Hartford City, Blackford county, Indiana, March i, 1872, his parents being Simon Peter and Martha (Bailey) Gregory. The father, a native presumably of Illinois, died when our subject was five years of age and little is known concerning his history. The grandfather on the maternal side was a native of New England. There were nine children in the family : William, deceased ; Clarence and Clara, twins, the former now living in Kingman City, Kansas, and the latter deceased ; Enola, the wife of Luther Joy, of Wichita, Kansas; Mollie, now Mrs. Charles F. Smith, of Little River, Kansas; Cassie M., the wife of Grant T. Orr, of Chicago; John P.. our subject; Arabella, the wife of Alfred A. Lindsey, of Charleston, West Virginia; and Charles, deceased.

John P. Gregory was educated in the public schools of Sandborn and at the age of four years, in 1876, his mother having been called away, he went to live with his uncle, L. W. Bailey, now of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, continuing with him until 1895. He was reared to labor and had no time in which to sow wild oats. Therefore, when the period arrived for him to begin business on his own account, he bought a farm, which he cultivated energetically for a few years, engaging, however, in 1896, in the poultry business. After an experience of six months in the handling of poultry his attention was turned to mercantile lines and here he found an occupation in which he has since engaged with marked success. Beginning as clerk in a store, after an experience of five years he embarked in business for himself, associating with Ira V. Corbin and later with J. B. Burton. Since 1907 the title of the firm has been Gregory, Wood & Hundgate. They handle a large and well selected general stock of merchandise and this is regarded as one of the most progressive business concerns in

Sandborn. In addition to his mercantile interests Mr. Gregory is the owner of three hundred and thirteen acres of land in western Kansas and also of a beautiful residence and grounds in Sandborn. He is known as one of the wide-awake men of Knox county, possessed of clear judgment, striking personality and ability which would win in any business to which he should turn his attention.

In 1895 Mr. Gregory was united in marriage to Miss Minnie Cain, and four children have blessed this union : Clarence, now fourteen years of age; Mary Martha; John L. ; and Dalpha Cain.

Mr. Gregory politically is allied with the democratic party, believing that its liberal principles are more conducive to the welfare of the nation than those of any other party. Socially he is connected with the Tribe of Ben Hur, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the encampment, and the Knights of Pythias, being a trustee in the latter organization. He is ardently in sympathy with the fraternal teachings of these orders and has made them active principles of his life. He and his wife are consistent members of the Christian church, our subject being a firm believer in the authority of Holy Writ, and an elder of the church. By a life of good-will to others he has merited and receives the esteem of his fellowmen, and no citizen of Knox county is more highly respected than the gentleman whose name introduces this review.

Alfred Neal

Alfred Neal, who owns a well improved farm of one hundred and fifty acres in Vigo township, comes of a family which has been identified with Knox county for many years. He was born in that township, April 3, 1848, and is a son of Emory and Elizabeth (Weaver) Neal. The father was born near Vincennes and spent his entire life in Knox county, where he gained an enviable reputation as a patriotic and public-spirited citizen. He was for many years actively interested in the church and educational work of his region and was called to his reward in 1876. The beloved mother was also a native of this county and departed this life in 1878. There were eight children in the family : Austin, Anna and John, deceased ; Albert, now living at McLeansboro, Illinois ; Carrie, the wife of Henry Haper, of Bicknell; Alfred, herein mentioned; Alexander, a farmer of Washington township, this county ; and Noah, a resident of Bicknell.

The subject of this review was educated in the common schools and early became well acquainted with the various duties pertaining to the farm. He contnued at home, assisting his parents until twenty-one years of age, and then began to make a place for himself in the world by buying a farm of one hundred acres in Vigo township. Later, after he had accumulated sufficient funds, he increased his landed holdings by fifty acres and he now owns one of the valuable properties in this part of the county. He has made many improvements and cleared all the land except about twenty-five acres and has gained a fine reputation not only as a general farmer but as a handler of high grade stock, for which he receives the best prices that the market affords.

In 1871 Mr. Neal was united in marriage to Miss Mai-y Wampler, and two children have blessed the union, Flora May and Elizabeth Susanna, the wife of Hugh McKinley, who lives near Wheatland, Indiana. Mr. Neal is a firm believer in the authority of the Bible. Politically he gives his support to the democratic party and he has served with high credit in various public positions, filling the office of councilman for four years and also acting as road superintendent and school director. As a public officer he discharged his duties in such a way as to give great satisfaction to taxpayers of all parties. It has been a principle of his life to perform everything he undertakes to the best of his ability and thus he has gained the respect of all who know him and at the same time has attained a character for integrity and efficiency which is one of the most valuable acquisitions any human being can possess.

Among the honored residents of Wheatland, Knox county, is Susan (Brooks) Niblack, who for more than half a century has made her home in Wheatland. She is a daughter of Thomas Jefferson Brooks, who was born in Lexington, Massachusetts, December 29, 1805. He was educated in his native state and at the age of nineteen started out on his own account, coming to Orange county, Indiana, where he entered the distilling business and also operated a whetstone factory. After eight years in these lines he went to Martin county, Indiana, and became a general merchant, later coming to Knox county, and at Wheatland erected the first store of the town, in 1857. Mr. Brooks was a man of courage and good business attainments and inherited many worthy characteristics from an ancestry that extended far back in the history of America. His father and also an uncle fought in the Revolutionary war and served during the seven years of the conflict. Attorney General Hoar, of Massachusetts, was a cousin of Mr. Brooks, the father, Daniel Brooks, having married Bathsheba Hoar. The mother of our subject, whose maiden name was Susan Poore, was. born December 15, 181 1, and married August 5, 1830. She was a daughter of John and Hannah (Chute) Poore, pioneers of Indiana, who camefrom Massachusetts. Thirteen children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Brooks, three of whom are still living, the subject of this review being sixth in order of birth.

Lee Niblack, who was a native of Dubois county, Indiana, born March 21, 1836, a son of John and Martha (Hargrave) Niblack. His father was a native of Kentucky, born July 9, 1790, and his mother, who was born F"ebruary 7, 1799, was a daughter of William and Sarah (Ellis) Hargrave, pioneers of Indiana, who removed from Virginia to North Carolina and later to Indiana. The father was for many years prominently identified with the farming interests of Dubois county, this state. Mr. and Mrs. Niblack were the parents of eight children, Sanford Lee Niblack being seventh in order of birth. He received his education in the schools of Dubois county and later attended the schools of Martin county and the University of Vincennes, Indiana. He came to Knox county February 17, 1859, and engaged in the general merchandise business, continuing with unusual success until the time of his death, which occurred in 1908. He was for nearly fifty years actively connected with the development of Wheatland and Knox county and served for three terms as postmaster of Wheatland. He was township trustee for a number of years and was a stanch advocate of the republican party. Socially he was connected with the Masonic order and he had many warm friends in that organization as well as in Knox county.

Ten children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Niblack: Emma, now Mrs. Hugh S. McMahon, of St. Louis; John H., of Wheatland; William E., also of Wheatland ; Grace, who married Dr. J. W. Benham, and is now living at Columbus, Indiana; Earl Stimson, a physician of Terre Haute; Edith, deceased; Herman G., a resident of Vincennes; Susan, deceased; Helen, the wife of Curtis T. McClure, a farmer, of Knox county; and Persis, at home. Mrs. Niblack as the head of the household and as a friend and neighbor has gained an enduring place in the community where she has so long been known. Uniformly kind and considerate, and unswerving in her sense of duty, she years ago won the confidence of all with whom she came into contact and is recognized as a true type of American womanhood. While she has suflfered in the death of those near and dear, it has not been without hope, for she is sustained by a trust founded on Divine promise, which we are told, "cannot fail."

Among the wide-awake and progressive citizens of Bicknell, Knox county, is the gentleman whose name introduces this sketch. He has resided in the county since his birth and in Bicknell for five years past, being known as a man of fine intellectual attainments and one of the substantial farmers of this region. He was born in Vigo township, one and one-half miles south of Sandborn, August i, i860. He is of French ancestry on the paternal side and is a son of Pinkney and Nancy (Maxwell) DeLay.

The father was born April 8, 1835, in Greene county, Indiana, and ever since arriving at manhood he has devoted his attention to farming and now hves in Sandborn. Our subject's grandfather, Alexander De Lay, was a native of Guilford county. North Carolina, where he was born February 17, 1801. He emigrated to Lawrence county, this state, in 1828, and became a resident of Greene county in 1832. The mother was born in Guilford county, North Carolina, in February, 1840, and her father came with his family to this state about 1844. The beloved mother was called to her reward in 1905, after a long life of usefulness. There were six children in the family : J. A., our subject ; William, who was bom January 16, 1862, and is now in the drug business at Palestine, Illinois ; James, who was born August 22, 1867, and departed this life September 20, 1894, while studying for the ministry; Curtis, who was born October, 1869, and now operates a gristmill at Lyons, Greene county; Clyde L., who was born July 4, 1873, and is living on the old home place near Sandborn; and Maud, who was born December 3. 1877, and is the wife of Everett Jones, living with Pinkney De Lay.