Vincennes Township (part 5 of 14)

In 1903 he organized the Blackford Window Glass Company of Vincennes, and began operations here on quite an extensive scale in the fall of that year. The new venture succeeded from the first, and in fact its success has been little short of phenomenal, for Mr. Bastin had much to contend against. On one occasion a fire broke out and partially destroyed the plant, and again there was a flood which did much damage. The plant also suffered from the ravages of storms, but notwithstanding all this the business has been carried on along progressive lines that have been followed by prosperity. Mr. Bastin is a clear-headed capable man whose experience covers every part of the business, having a practical knowledge of the various phases of the work, he is, therefore, capable of directing the labors of those who serve under him. Moreover, he is a man of high character, and from the beginning of his residence in Vincennes he has attracted the attention and enjoyed the confidence of the good people of this city. He has estabhshed here a valuable industry, contributing much to the general prosperity of the town, for in the large plant employment is furnished to many high class men to whom excellent wages are paid. The officers of the company are: Emil Goossens, president; Henry J. Boeckman, vice president ; and Frank J. Bastin, secretary and general manager. Although he has other financial interests, Mr. Bastin devotes his time and energy largely to the manufacture of glass.

In 1896 occurred the marriage of Mr. Bastin and Miss Anna Bastin, also a native of Belgium. They have two children: Nellie C, and J. C. In his political views Mr. Bastin is an earnest republican, unfaltering in his advocacy of the principles of the party, and has served as city councilman-at-large. Fraternally he is connected with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Knights of Columbus. He is one of the directors of the Pastime Club, and is chairman of the manufacturing committee of the Board of Trade. He is deeply interested in everything relating to the welfare and progress of Vincennes, and is of that type of citizen whose worth is widely acknowledged, for in the conduct of individual interest and the attainment of personal success he also contributes to the general welfare. He displays an aptitude for successful management that has advanced him continually in his chosen field of labor, and he is a notable example of the self-made man of foreign birth who recognizes and utilizes the opportunities offered in America, and thus reaches a prominent place in business circles.

Rev. John A. Becher

Rev. John A. Becher, who on the 15th of December, 1908. was appointed to the charge of the Sacred Heart Catholic church in Vincennes, was born at St. Meinrad, Indiana, June 10, 1879. His father, Melchoir Becher, was a native of Switzerland, and married Elizabeth Klueh, a native of Indiana. They resided in St. Meinrad during the youthful days of John A. Becher, who became a pupil in the St. Meinrad college and seminary, continuing his studies there until ordained to the priesthood on the 28th of May, 1904, by Bishop O'Donahue. He was afterward appointed assistant at St. John's church in Vincennes, coming to this city on the i6th of July, 1904. On the 15th of December, 1908, he was appointed to take charge of the Sacred Heart, a new parish but recently organized. It was situated in a district of the city that was apparently little but corn fields at that time, but the wisdom and foresight, which has ever been characteristic of the Catholic church in the extension of its work, recognized the fact that the city must necessarily grow in that direction, and prepared a field of religious labor for the population that was soon to come. Father Becher undertook the work, organizing the parish and erecting a fine church and rectory, which are a credit to the city. The corner-stone was laid April 22, 1909, and the church was dedicated on the 26th of September of the same year, by the bishop who had officiated at his ordination. The splendid building erected is used for both church and school purposes. The first board of trustees is composed of the following: John Frisz, Charles Laubey, John Brown, Patrick Ryan, William Wentzel and Joseph Madigan.

Father Becher is a very popular and hardworking young priest. He is a man of liberal education, and is putting forth untiring eflfort for the upbuilding of his cause and the existence of the influence of the Catholic church in the section of the city in which he labors. Under his guidance the church has shown marked growth in both numerical and spiritual Hues, and the different branches of church work are now well organized.

John L. Buckles

John L. Buckles who, as a member of the bar, is confining his attention solely to probate work and for twenty years has been secretary of the People's Savings Loan & Building Association of Vincennes, was born in Vigo township, Knox county, Indiana, August 23, 1854. His father, Jackson Buckles, was also a native of that township. The grandfather, Robert Buckles, came from Maryland in the early days and settled in Vigo township when almost the entire township was covered with its native growth of timber. His grave was the first made in the present Edwardsport cemetery. Jackson Buckles was reared in this district when it was still a pioneer region and in his youthful days he learned the cabinetmaker's trade, in which connection he won fame for his expert workmanship. Settling in Edwardsport, Indiana he there worked at his trade until his death which occurred in 1857. In early manhood he married Martha J. Godwin, also a native of Knox county, and they became tlie parents of two sons, the brother of our subject being William A. Buckles, who is now living in Kentucky.

In the country schools John L. Buckles began his education and afterward pursued a scientific or teacher's course in Danville, Indiana. He then took up the profession of teaching to which he devoted his energies for five terms in the schools of Knox county. He was always active in politics and while closely associated with public affairs in that connection he also engaged in various lines of business and traveled to a considerable extent. In 1887 he was appointed deputy sheriff and filled the position until 1892 when he was elected sheriflf. The endorsement of his first term's service came to him in his reelection in 1894. While still in office he took up the study of law under the direction of Judge Orlando H. Cobb. He gives his attention to probate work and has never engaged in general practice. For twenty years he has been secretary of the People's Savings Loan & Building Association of Vincennes, which was organized in 1889. Mr. Buckles took an active part in its formation and became one of its directors. Since leaving the sheriff's office he has devoted his entire time to the affairs of this company, has been its secretary for twenty years, and has acted as attorney for the association for twelve years. The business has grown enormously under the capable management of Mr. Buckles, who is watchful of every detail pointing to success and manifests most sound judgment in placing investments. The loans have grown from a very small sum of money to six hundred and fifty thousand dollars, there is a membership of over eighteen hundred and altogether the enterprise is considered one of large local value, the assets of the concern amounting to, in round numbers, seven hundred thousand dollars.

In 1886 Mr. Buckles was united in marriage to Miss Mary Etta Yates, a native of Knox county and a member of one of its old families. There are two children by this marriage, Ennis R. and Gladys Anne. Mr. Buckles is a Knight Templar Mason, greatly interested in the craft, the beautiful symbolism of which clearly points the lessons of life. He is also a charter member of the Elks lodge of Vincennes and served as its secretary for two years. His name is likewise on the membership roll of the Knights of Pythias lodge. Politically a democrat, he is an earnest worker in the affairs of the party and served for four years, from 1906-1910, as a member of the council from the fourth ward. His attention has largely been given to those every day duties which constitute the real forces of life. His energy has never faltered when obligations have rested upon him, either of a personal nature or in the line of citizenship, and all who know him find him trustworthy, reliable and progressive.

James T. Orr

Endurance of trials is the test of character. The sufferings which James T. Orr bore in his last illness gave evidence of his fortitude, the nobility of his nature and his Christian faith. Throughout his life he was a man of kindly spirit, manifest in a helpful, sympathetic attitude to all with whom he came in contact. He remaimed for many years a representative and valued business man of Vincennes, where he engaged in the manufacture and sale of harness and saddlery.

A native of Ireland, he was bom in 1835 and was of Scotch-Irish lineage. His parents were James T. and Catherine (Farrell) Orr, who in 1837 crossed the Atlantic to America as passengers of one of the oldtime sailing vessels. They made their way westward, settling in North

James T. Orr was but a young child when brought by his parents to the United States, and was only about eight years of age at the time of the removal to Vincennes, so that his education was largely acquired in the schools of this city. Like every healthy boy, he enjoyed the sports of youth yet in the schoolroom he laid the foundation for his success in later life. He made his initial step in the business world when seventeen years of age; going to Louisville, Kentucky, in 1852, he became an apprentice in a wholesale leather house. He remained in that city for three years, during which time he mastered the harness and saddle-maker's trade, and then returned to Vincennes. Here he embarked in business in partnership with a Mr. Page, and in 1873 established an independent venture near the corner of Second and Main streets, where he built up a harness and saddlery business that became one of the famous enterprises of this character in the town, both in extent and in the nature of his trade. He continued at that place until his death, after which the business was conducted by his sons. James and John, until it was sold about two years ago. In his business life Mr. Orr was ever straightforward and reliable and anything made in his house bore the stamp of good workmanship. He never sought to lead a customer astray concerning the value of an article and his commercial integrity became proverbial. In addition to the conduct of his harness and saddlery business he was at one time president of the Vincennes Draw Bridge Company which constructed the wagon bridge over the Wabash river at Vincennes and operated it for a number of years as a toll bridge.

On the 3d of June, 1873, Mr. Orr was united in marriage to Miss Mark Beckes, a daughter of Thomas P. and Margaret (Emison) Beckes, This marriage was blessed with the following children: Thomas, a resident of Smithfield. Virginia; who married Stella Edwards and has one daughter, Virginia; James, who married Hannah Du Kate and resides in \'incennes; John, Walter and Robert, at home.

The death of Mr. Orr occurred on the 15th of December, 1903, and in his passing his family lost a devoted husband and father. Some months prior to his death he was stricken with paralysis on the left side, but he bore his long illness uncomplainingly and, as was characteristic of his sunshiny nature, he always answered inquiries concerning his health with "I am pretty well." In politics he was ever a stalwart democrat, unfaltering in his support of the party, and on several occasions was called to positions of public honor and trust. For a long period he served as a member of the city council of Vincennes, in which connection he supported all of the progressive measure which he deemed of benefit in advancing the municipal welfare. He was also county commissioner for several terms and no word was ever in justice uttered against his official

It is said he that never had an enemy, even in an opposing political party. By nature he was most charitable and to the extent of his ability he gave in aid of the poor, his benefactions being many. His was one of those natures which shed around them much of the sunshine of life and his death left a vacancy at his own fireside and among his friends that can never be filled. The memory of his upright, honorable life, helpful spirit and generous nature, however, remains as a blessed benediction and an inspiration to all who knew him.

Franklin Clarke

Franklin Clarke was one of the pioneer representatives of industrial activity in Vincennes and through long years was the promoter of various business enterprises which contributed in large and substantial measure to the growth and upbuilding of this city. Thus he left the indelible impress of his individuality upon Vincennes where his name is yet honored and his memory cherished. He was born in Sodus Center, Wayne county. New York, January 9, 1832, and was descended from an old New England family which settled in Massachusetts in the early part of the seventeenth century. New England, perhaps, more than any other section of the country, early had high regard for the value of education, and Mr. Clarke, like other youths of that district, was carefully trained in the elementary branches of learning. He was seventeen years of age when he was regularly apprenticed to the machinist's trade, serving a four years' term of indenture in the town of Lyons, Wayne county. New York. He became quite proficient during that period and for several years thereafter was employed as a machinist in Richmond, Virginia, where he assisted in building the engines for some of the vessels afterward used in the Civil war. He left the Old Dominion to become a resident of Indiana in April, 1857, which month witnessed his arrival in Vincennes. Here he resided continuously until his death, with the exception of two or three years passed in the south during the war between the two sections of the country. He was employed as a machinist by the Ohio & Mississippi Railroad Company until about 1862.

Mr. Clarke became a pioneer in industrial operations in Vincennes when, in 1864, he joined Mr. H. A. Buck and a Mr. Chapman in building the Wabash Valley Foundry and Machine Shop. His was the first home establishment of the kind in this city and was a valuable addition to the enterprises of the town and to southern Indiana. The new undertaking was successfully conducted, becoming an important feature in promoting the commercial progress of Vincennes. It did not, however, encompass the scope of Mr. Clarke's activities, for he became connected with various business enterprises, being at the time of his death the owner of the Vincennes Calorific Brick Works, and the general manager and a stockholder of the Prospect Hill Coal Company. He was recognized as a man of judgment and high character. He was essentially a self-made man, his success being due to his exceptional industry, nerve and perseverance.

In 1863 occurred the marriage of Mr. Clarke and Miss Alice Judah, who survives her husband. They became the parents of three children, but a daughter, Mamie, died in childhood. Franklin, who died in early manhood, at the outset of a promising career, left a wife, who in her maidenhood was Minnie Kelly, and a daughter, Lucinda, now in school. The surviving son, Brandon Clarke, married Mabel Purcell.

Mr. Clarke was a prominent member of the Masonic fraternity which he joined in 1857, advancing through the various degrees of the York Rite until he became a Knight Templar. The interests and companionship of his Masonic association were among the most cherished of his life. His political faith was that of the repubhcan party and in 1875 he was chosen a member of the city council to which he was again and again reelected until the period of his service covered twenty-three years, and the municipal legislation of the city was largely shaped through his efforts. During this long period he acquired an extensive experience in civil affairs and by the faithful performance of his duty won the confidence of the best men of both parties. In manner he was modest and unassuming and at all times kindly obliging. He had a genial sense of humor which ever made him a welcome companion: a stalwart integrity that made him an honored associate in business circles and a public spirit that made him one of the most valued of Vincennes' citizens. His strict integrity and honesty of purpose led him to despise all unworthy or questionable means to secure success in any undertaking, either for the welfare of the city or for his own advancement.

Dr. Charles S. Bryan, who entered upon the general practice of medicine in Vincennes, in 1906, after a college training, was born in Xenia, Illinois, July 19, 1880. His father, Homer H. Bryan, a native of Indiana, was born in 1855 and in his boyhood days removed with his parents to Illinois where his father operated a woolen mill. In 1884 Homer H. Bryan returned to this state, settling in Vincennes, where he entered the employ of the Ohio & Mississippi Railroad Company, first as brakeman and later as conductor. When the division point was removed to Washington he became a resident of that place and still makes it his home. He has alalways been an active supporter of the democratic party. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Rachel A. Friend, is a native of Illinois.

In the public schools of Vincennes Dr. Bryan acquired his early education and later continued his studies in Washington where he was graduated from the high school with the class of 1901. Determining upon a professional career and making a choice of the practice of medicine as his life work, he began studying in the Indiana Medical College, and the medical department of Purdue University, from which he was graduated with the class of 1906. He then opened an office in Vincennes where he has since remained in general practice. In the four years in which he has represented the medical fraternity here he has succeeded in building up a good business, for he is careful and conservative in the performance of all professional service and the results which have attended his labors have proven that his knowledge is broad and his application of it correct. He is a member of the County Medical Society, the Indiana State Medical Society and the American Medical Association and his standing among the local members of the profession is indicated in the fact that he has been elected and is now serving as secretary of the county organization. Since 1907 he has also been county physician.

In January, 1908, Dr. Bryan was united in marriage to Miss Helen M. Fendrich, a daughter of George Fendrich of Vincennes. The hospitality of many of the best homes of the city is cordially extended them and Dr. Bryan is a popular member of Vincennes Lodge, No. i, A. F. & A. M. His political views accord with the principles of the democratic party, but he has never sought or desired office, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his professional duties, in which line he is meeting with gratifying success for one of his years.

Dr. Joseph W. Smadel, a representative of the medical profession in Vincennes, was born at New Albany, Indiana, in the 5th of December, 1871. His father, Tobias Smadel, was born in Baden-Baden, Germany, and came to the United States when twenty-eight years of age. He had previously learned and followed the shoemaker's trade, but, feeling that better business opportunities might be enjoyed on this side the Atlantic, he crossed the briny deep and settled in New Albany, making his way up the Mississippi and Ohio rivers by boat from New Orleans. He continued a resident of New Albany until his death, which occurred in 1880. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Maggie Shoe, came to the United States with her parents and was married in New Albany. The family numbered seven children, four daughters and three sons. The mother and one sister, Clara V., now live with Dr. Smadel in Vincennes, and two other sisters and one brother also survive.

In the public schools of his native city Dr. Smadel pursued his literary education and afterward began preparation for a professional career as a student in the medical department of the University of Louisville. He was graduated in 1896 and began practice in Vincennes, where he has continuously remained, his abihty winning him a gratifying practice of large and satisfactory proportions. He holds membership in the Knox County Medical Society, the Indiana State Medical Society, and the American Medical Association and was president of the Knox County Medical Society from December, 1908, until December, 1909. He is also serving as health commissioner for Vincennes and he belongs to the Vin Lancent Club.

On the 27th of March, 1904, Dr. Smadel was married to Miss Clara S. Greene, a daughter of Edwin Greene, of Detroit. She died October 10, 1907, leaving a son, Joseph Edmund, who was bom on the lOth of January of that year. Dr. Smadel belongs to the Masonic fraternity, in which he has attained the Royal Arch degree. He has become widely and favorably known during his residence in Vincennes, covering a period of fourteen years, and as a successful practitioner and progressive citizen he has won the favorable regard of many with whom he has come in contact.

William P. Ritterskamp

William P. Ritterskamp, doing an extensive furniture business in Vincennes, his native city, where he has come to be recognized as one of the most active and progressive merchants, is now senior partner of the firm of William P. Ritterskamp & Company. The business had its beginning in 1887 and in the intervening years has been developed to large and profitable proportions owing to the correct business methods and unfaltering enterprise of him whose name introduces this review.

He was born March 5, 1856, a son of Peter and Julia (Storch) Ritterskamp, the former for many years an old and respected resident of Knox county. In the public schools William P. Ritterskamp pursued his education until he had mastered the elemental branches of learning. Subsequently he attended Vincennes University and afterward pursued a course in the Garvin & Heinley Business College at Terre Haute, Indiana. Since starting out in life on his own account he has been continually connected with commercial pursuits. After leaving school he was employed by Peter Pomil, a grocer, in the capacity of bookkeeper for seven years and later he had charge of a toll bridge for six years. During these periods

In 1887, therefore, Mr. Ritterskamp, engaged in the house furnishings business in partnership with Otto G. Ritterskamp, under the firm style of W. P. Ritterskamp & Company. They began business on First street, between Main and Busseron, in a very small way with a stock worth only about one hundred and fifty dollars. But their trade grew rapidly and in a short time they removed to their present location on Main street. Mr. Ritterskamp leased the building for five years and then purchased it. From the beginning the trade has steadily grown until the house is today one of the most extensive of this character in Vincennes. A large line of furniture and house furnishings of every description is carried, the stock is thoroughly modern and reasonable prices and honorable dealing have made Mr. Ritterskamp one of the popular, respected and successful merchants of the city.

In 1877 Mr. Ritterskamp was married to Miss Doris Bushing, a native of Hanover, Germany, who in her girlhood days came to Vincennes with her parents, Charles and Wilhelmina Bushing. Three children have been born of this marriage: Alma, who died at the age of two years; Paul, who is connected with his father in business; and Elsa. The son was married in Vincennes to Miss Elizabeth Harris, a daughter of George H. Harris, and has one daughter, Esther.

Mr. Ritterskamp has always been deeply interested in the welfare and progress of both the city and county and though he has never been an office seekers, he has been the stalwart champion of many progressive public movements. In 1910 he was appointed by Mayor McDowell a member of the board of public works and his political opinions are in accord with the principles of the democratic party. Religiously he is a member of the German Evangelical church, while fraternally he is associated with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and with the Royal Arcanum. In all of its phases his life has been a commendable one, characterized by enterprise, diligence and perseverance in office, by loyalty and progressiveness in citizenship and by faithfulness to the ties of home and friendship.

August G. Meise

August G. Meise, well known as a representative of commercial interests in Vincennes, his native city, where he is engaged in dealing in stoves and furniture, was born March i, 1868. His father, Henry Meise, a native of Germany, came to Knox county in 1850 and for a time engaged in farming but afterward put aside the plow and established his home in Vincennes where he turned his attention to the grocery business. He was associated with that line of trade for a number of years and then lived retired, enjoying a well earned rest during the remainder of his life. He was -married in Vincennes to Miss Sophie Schultze, a native of Germany, and they became the parents of a family of six sons and four daughters, of whom six are now living. The father died in the year 1900.

At the usual age August G. Meise entered the public schools and afterward acquainted himself with the hardware business as an employe of the firm of Cross Brothers. Subsequently he was in the employ of W. P. Ritterskamp & Company, who added a hardware department to their furniture business and made Mr. Meise manager thereof. He capably controlled the business until 1895, when he embarked in commercial pursuits on his own account, forming a partnership with Emil Rittterskamp, under the firm name of Ritterskamp & Meise. They began dealing in stoves and hardware and later added a stock of furniture. In 1899 Mr. Ritterskamp sold his interest to F. D. Sheid and in 1903 Mr. Meise purchased Air. Shied's interest and has since been sole proprietor of the business which is constantly growing in volume and importance. His sales now reach a large annual figure and his careful management of his commercial interests ensures a continuance of the trade, for he follows methods which commend him to the confidence and trust of his fellowmen.

On December 27, 1897, Mr. Meise was married to Miss Emily Loth, a native of Cincinnati. They have many friends in Vincennes and Mr. Meise is a pupular member of the Masonic fraternity, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Knights of Pythias. In his political views he is a democrat, active in the work of the party, and for five years served as a member of the city council from the first ward, during which period he exercised his official prerogatives to materially further and improve the conditions of the city, seeking substantial benefit yet without the useless expenditure of the pubHc funds. His social qualities render him a favorite in business, political and social circles.

Hon. Samuel Wardell Williams

There is an old book which says, "If thou faint in adversity, thy strength is small." It requires exceptional ability to win one's way to the top in a large and intelligent community and the man who "faints" is not the one who occupies a position at the front of the battle. Samuel W. Williams, ever since his admission to the bar, more than a third of a century ago, has been found somewhere along the firing line, and in not a few instances has taken a leading place among the skirmishers whose eflfort it is to dislodge the enemy from a point of advantage or place of concealment. As an example of fearlessness in attack and ability to hold his position when once taken, he stands almost unique in American politics of recent years. As a political speaker on line'; of reform he has few equals, and as an organizer and worker he gained a distinction which placed him upon the ticket of the populist as a candidate for vice president of the United States in the campaign of 1908. In his own state he has accomplished many changes in legislation which are now endorsed by all political parties as of substantial benefit to the great body of the people, and in all his political acts he has been guided by principles which he believes are of supreme importance to the perpetuity of the republic.

Samuel W. Williams was born at Mount Carmel, Illinois, February 7, 1851, and is the son of Fleming and Ella (Wardell) Williams, both natives of New York. Fleming Williams went with his father, Joseph Williams, to Albion, Edwards county, Illinois, when a child, the latter serving as postmaster at that place for twenty-five years. In the meantime the son was educated in the common schools, studied law and became a practitioner in Wabash county, Illinois, where for many years he continued in practice. For some years he filled the position of master in chancery. He was prominent as a lawyer and gained a reputation as a political speaker, in advocacy of the cause of the Douglas democracy. His son Samuel has inherited much of his father's ability as a public speaker. He died at Mount Carmel, Illinois, in 1880 and his wife departed this life in 1872. She was a woman cf brilliant mind and high educational attainments. In the family were three children, only one of whom survives the subject of this sketch.

Samuel Wardell Williams was educated in the common schools and at a theological seminary, believing that he should enter the Presbyterian ministry. As some of the doctrines of the church did not appeal acceptably to his judgment, he gave up the thought of becoming a clergyman and turned his attention to other channels. Before arriving at voting age he was appointed deputy county clerk of Wabash county, Illinois. This gave him opportunity to observe the proceedings of the courts and he decided to follow in the footsteps of his father as a lawyer. In 1870 he came to Vincennes as a student in the old Rank and Heinly College. As he had become self-supporting, the necessity for funds required a temporay change of plans and he went on the road as traveling salesman for a wholesale grocery house. He continued at this occupation for two years, carrying in one hand his traveling bag and grocers' samples and in the other a satchel filled with law books. We are reminded here of an ex-Confederate artillery officer who was a law student at the opening of the Civil war ; he carried his law books in the limber of his cannon. Such men can never be permanently stopped in any undertaking within the possibility of human accomplishment : and among such men are the names the world holds highest. Entering the office of Cauthorn & Boyle, Mr. Williams continued the study of law and was admitted to the bar February 12, 1874. He at once began practice in Vincennes, where he has since remained. A politician almost from his youth, Mr. Williams has throughout his entire active career taken a lively interest in political affairs, local, state or national. He made his first political speech for Horace Greeley in 1872, when the great editor was a candidate for the presidency and supported by the liberal republican and democratic parties. He has been a political

In 1877 Mr. Williams was appointed prosecuting attorney of Knox county and served for two years. In 1882 a wider field presented and he was elected on the democratic ticket to the state legislature, where he continued for two terms and made a record for effective service which has scarcely been duplicated in this or any other state. During his period in the general assembly he was the author of the first attempt in any state legislature to regulate the charges of public utilities corporations. The act was known as the Williams law, fixing the maximum rate for telephone charges. The law was ridiculed by the system from ocean to ocean and was hotly contested in the courts but the act was finally upheld. Attempts to ignore the law led to riots in several Indiana cities. The Williams law was a pathfinder in a new field of legislation, and laws, state and national, have been based upon it. He was the author of a bill reforming the life insurance business in Indiana and the irresponsible concerns were obliged, under its provision, to withdraw from the state. He also introduced and carried through successfully a bill simplifying the practice in probate courts and greatly lessening the costs in settlement of estates. In 1884, over much opposition, he led in a movement which established a separate circuit court in Knox county. At the same session of the legislature he was a candidate for speaker of the house but was defeated by Hon. Charles L. Jewett. In recognition of his distinguished services and of the confidence of his fellow democrats he was made chairman of the house caucus and floor leader during the session. At the close of his legislative career he was proffered an appointment as deputy attorney general of the state. This he felt compelled to decline as he desired to return to private practice.

Finding himself out of alignment with the democratic party, Mr. Williams severed his connection with that organization in 1884 and has since been identified with the movement which culminated in the peoples party, made up of citizens in all the states, largely in agricultural districts. He assisted in the organization of the peoples party in 1890 and 1892 and also in writing the celebrated Omaha platform, which has been a pivot for all reforms since 1892. In 1904 Mr. Williams' name was presented at the convention as the head of the national ticket but he was defeated in the convention by Thomas E. Watson of Georgia. Four years later, in 1908, he made the race with Mr. Watson at the head of the ticket and himself in second place. He has visited many parts of the country during heated political campaigns and his addresses have been greeted by great audiences and made many converts to reform principles. He was a personal friend and admirer of the late Henry George and in 1886 and 1887 assisted in the anti-poverty crusade, stumping the state of New York in behalf of the great agitator, who was then a candidate for secretary of state of New York. At the peoples party convention at St. Louis, in 1896, he opposed fusion with the democrats, made a bitter speech against William J. Bryan and forced the nomination of

Watson for vice president as against Sewell of Maine. On August 8, 1904, Mr. Williams delivered the speech at Cooper Union, New York, notifying Thomas E. Watson of his nomination for the presidency. It is said to have been one of the masterful efforts of a life that has witnessed many gatherings where oratory swayed the profoundest emotions of men. Even his bitterest opponents have confessed that the orator from Indiana has at various times discovered the weak point in their armor and never stopped his terrific pounding as long as they remained within reach. Mr. Williams never has been a disciple of the school of nonresistance. He has always wielded a broadsword or a sledge hammer and so deep are his political convictions that his life has been in an important degree molded thereby.

Mr. Williams has found time to cultivate the social amenities. .For twenty years past he has filled the office of chief ranger of the Vincennes Court of Foresters. He is a member of the Woodmen of the World, the Tribe of Ben Hur and the Loyal Americans. While he is essentially a fighter, especially when his sense of justice is aroused, he is popular in the community where he has passed nearly all of his active life. This was shown in 1908 upon his return from the convention at which he was nominated for the vice presidency. Irrespective of party, the citizens assembled in the Vincennes Opera House and there gave to their fellow townsman a reception which for cordiality and friendliness has never been excelled in any community. Mr. Williams was the organizer of the Knox County Bar Association and lawyers in all parts of the state recognize in him one of the stanchest and most faithful members of the profession. At fifty-nine years of age he is still "in the fight" and old friends and admirers declare that as long as he can be heard from a platform his voice will be raised in defense of the millions in the humbler walks of life and in defiance of every usurpation that threatens the principles of liberty or the equality of opportunity, upon which the nation was founded.

Henry Vanderburgh Somes

When after years of long and earnest labor in honorable fields of business a man puts aside all cares to spend his remaining days in the quiet enjoyment of the fruits of his former toil, it is certainly a well deserved reward for his industry.

A youth of labor with an age of ease" wrote the poet and the world everywhere recognizes the justice of a season of rest following an active period of business life. Henry Vanderburgh Somes is now living retired at his pleasant home in Vincennes and his history shows the accomplishment of well directed labor. For a number of years he was a civil engineer with the Baltimore & Ohio Rail- road Company and at different times he has capably filled official positions, the duties of which have been most promptly and honorably discharged. Vincennes numbers him among her native sons for he was born in this city September 7, 1832, his parents being Dr. Joseph and Frances Sidney (Vanderburgh) Somes. The latter was a daughter of Henry Vanderburgh who at the age of sixteen was a lieutenant and at the age of eighteen a captain in Colonel Du Bois' regiment of Continental troops with which he served throughout the Revolutionary' war. He afterward became a member of the Society of Cincinnati, composed of officers of the American Revolution, and the certificate of his membership, signed by George Washington, president, and General Knox, secretary, is now in possession of his grandson, H. V. Somes, of this review - a cherished family heirloom. He left the ranks of war to become prominent in shaping the history of his country in civic connections, especially in the Mississippi valley. He was appointed the first Judge of the Northwest Territory and in this connection held court at Detroit, Michigan, Kaskaskia, IlHnois, and Vincennes, Indiana, when those were the principal cities of the three states. To hold his court he had to make the trip on horseback through dense forests and over pathless prairies with Indian guides. This was long before not only the admission of the states into the Union but also before their division into territories. His death occurred about 1812.

Dr. Joseph Somes was of English birth and came to America about 1828. He had acquired his early education in his native country but afterward attended Transylvania College at Lexington, Kentucky. For a short period he resided in Bowling Green. Kentucky, but later became a resident of Vincennes. Since that time the name of Somes has figured in connection with the history of this city.

It was here that Henry Vanderburgh Somes acquired his early education, which he supplemented by study at St. Gabriels, Indiana. He afterward continued his studies at Anderson Academy in New Albany, Indiana, and completed his school life in Bloomington. He became connected with the Ohio & Mississippi, now the Baltimore & Ohio, Railroad Company, in the department of civil engineering but afterward went to Europe, remaining abroad for a year. He went to Central America during the Walker expedition but became ill with fever and returned to the north. He afterward took up the study of law under Judge Bowman and was admitted to the bar in 1861. He did not engage, however, in active practice. The Civil war was then in progress and during the period of hostilities he held a lieutenant's commission and organized a company here, but on account of ill health he was obliged to turn the company over to another. While he could not sen'e at the front he did active work in charge of a government hospital, and in 1863 was called to municipal service in his election to the office of mayor, in which he served for four years. He carefully safeguarded the interests of Vincennes during that period, giving a business-like and public-spirited administration and seek- ing ever to strictly maintain law and order during the troublous times in the latter part of the Civil war and just following the close of hostilities. Later he held numerous town offices, the duties of which he discharged with the same fidelity and trustworthiness that had marked his record as mayor. In later years he has lived retired, enjoying well earned rest at his pleasant home in Knox county.

On the 9th of February. 1864, Mr. Somes was united in marriage to Miss Mary E. Bayard, a representative of the well known Bayard family of this county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Somes have been born seven children : Dr. Joseph F. Somes, a practicing physician of Vincennes, who is married and has one son, Charles; Henry V., who married Bertha O'Daniel and has three children, Joseph Y.. Mary E. and Martha B. ; Bayard, who wedded Louise C. Muth and has a son. Bayard V. ; John S., who married Caroline Welton and has a daughter, Dorothy Jane; Mary Elizabeth, who is the wife of William F. Calverly and has two sons, Walter and Howard; Sidney Alice, who died at the age of sixteen years ; and Charles, who has also passed away.

Mr. Somes is a member of the Catholic church and to its teachings has ever been loyal. His has been an honorable record, characterized by ability in business, by promptness and fidelity in the discharge of official duties and by loyalty at all times to honorable, manly principles. In the evening of life he is now living quietly and the esteem and good will of his fellowmen are freely extended to him.

George W. Bishop

George W. Bishop, who during the years of an active business life followed both farming and merchandising but is now living retired, his home being at No. 612 North Sixth street, was born on the i8th of January, 1843, near the city of Warsaw in Kosciusko county, Indiana, his parents being James H. and Mary (Roudebush) Bishop. The family has been established in Indiana from pioneer times. The father was the builder of the first house in Kosciusko county, to which place he removed from Clark county, Ohio. He became a very prominent and influential farmer of that part of the state, being justly regarded as a man of the utmost reliability, while his sound judgment and public spirit well qualified him for the position of leadership that was accorded him. He died in 1880 and was buried at Leesburg, Indiana, near the old home farm. His wife was also laid to rest in the same place.

No event of special importance occurred to vary the routine of farm life for George W. Bishop in his boyhood and youth. He attended the common schools and worked upon the home farm during the periods of vacation and also in the mornings and evenings attended to the chores and aided in the cultivation of the fields when his time was not occupied with his lessons. He was about thirty-seven years of age when with his brothers he purchased the old homestead, remaining one of the owners until 1882, when he sold his interest in that place and removed just across the river into Illinois. There he made an investment in one hundred and fifty acres of land, upon which he resided for eleven years, although in the meantime he extended the boundaries of his place until it comprised two hundred and four acres. Season after season he carefully tilled the soil, and the land - naturally rich and arable - responded readily to the care and cultivation which he bestowed upon it. About 1893, however, he disposed of that property and bought two hundred and sixty acres on the White river in Harrison township, Knox county. This is all fine land, constituting one of the best farms in the county. It still remains in his possession, although he is not actively engaged in the cultivation of the fields, for he has put aside business cares and is enjoying well earned and well merited rest.

In August, 1864, Mr. Bishop was united in marriage to Miss Maria Stevenson and they became the parents of three children, Eddie, Rose and Jennie, all now deceased. In 1879 Mr. Bishop was again married, his second union being with Lillian Kingery. They have two children: Earl, who is engaged in the wholesale drug business at St. Louis ; and Cleo, now the wife of W. A. Pringle, a newspaper man of Vincennes, Indiana.

The family attend the Christian church and Mr. Bishop is interested in the intellectual as well as the moral progress of the community, in which connection he did excellent service in behalf of the public schools while acting as a member of the board of education for six years. He keeps thoroughly posted on current topics and events and is a man of well known public spirit whose cooperation can be counted upon as a tangible factor in the support of any movement wherein the best interests of the community are involved. With the exception of the brief period spent across the border in Illinois, he has always lived in Indiana and its history and upbuilding are to him matters of deep interest and concern.

George E. Henry

George E. Henry, superintendent of the Vincennes Traction Company, belongs to that class of men whose records are marked by orderly progression. Success can never be attained by one who does not correctly judge his own capacities and powers as well as the restrictions which go to make up life's contacts and experiences. Never overestimating his own strength, but recognizing the fact that each forward step brings a wider outlook and broader opportunities, Mr. Henry in his business life has made

He was born in Ironton, Ohio, June 17, 1859. His father, William D. Henry, was also a native of that state and the grandfather, James Henry, was a pioneer settler of Ironton. The family is of Irish lineage and was founded in America by John Henry, the great-grandfather of our subject, who came from the Emerald isle in colonial days and was a valiant soldier of the Revolutionary war, participating in the battle of Bunker Hill and other important engagements of that long and sanguinary struggle. It was James Henry who secured the farm upon which the town of Ironton now stands, and the old Henry burying ground is still to be seen there. Reared in that state, William D. Henry learned and followed the miller's trade, successfully operating the Magnolia Mill there until his retirement from active business. When his close application and earnest labors had brought him a comfortable competence to supply him with all of the necessities and many of the comforts and luxuries of life through his remaining days, he retired and devoted his life to such pursuits as yielded him pleasure and enjoyment. He died in 1905 at the age of seventy-six years. His wife, who in her maidenhood was Sarah Virginia Cloninger, was a native of Ohio and died in 1900 at the age of sixtytwo years.

The schools of Ironton provided George E. Henry with his educational privileges until he was graduated from the high school. He then turned his attention to mechanical and engineering work and for a few years was a licensed marine engineer on the river. At the expiration of that period he took up the milling business and while thus engaged he went to Vincennes when the street railway was being established. In that connection he installed the machinery under the direction of Mr. Hudnut, who was at that time president of the road. Later he returned to Terre Haute, Indiana, where he remained until 1904, when he was appointed vice president and general manager of the Vincennes City Street Railway Company, acting in that capacity for five years. In April, 1909, Mr. Hudnut disposed of his interest in the business and the company was reorganized under the name of the Vincennes Traction Company. Mr. Henry was then reappointed as superintendent. He had become well acquainted with the business, was familiar with every detail and now thoroughly understands the work of operating the line. He keeps the street car system abreast with the most modern advancement in interurban transportation and is both a popular and efficient official.

In 1883 Mr. Henry was united in marriage to Miss Ida M. Barrett, a native of Ottawa, Canada, and they have become the parents of three sons and one daughter, William D., Hope Virginia, Walker H. and George B. Mr. Henry belongs to the Masonic fraternity, holding membership with Vincennes Lodge, No. i, A. F. & A. M., also with the chapter, council and commandery. He likewise belongs to the Benevolent and Protective

Order of Elks and to the Knights of Pythias fraternity, and is a past chancellor of Occidental Lodge, No. i8, of Terre Haute. His gradual rise in the business world represents the fit utilization of his time and talents and stands in incontrovertible proof of the fact that the path of opportunity leading to success is open to all.

Charles G. McCord, an eminent member of the Knox county bar, specializing in the field of real-estate law, was born March 21, 1851, on Sixth and Broadway, in Vincennes. His paternal grandfather, David McCord. settled here about 1821 and he was at that time a man of forty years, his birth having occurred January 25, 1781. His wife, Dorcas Rosebrough. was bom April 24, 1788, and was eighty-three years of age at the time of her death.

William R. McCord, the father of Charles G., was bom in Kentucky, May 2, 1809, and in early life became circuit court clerk, the fidelity and capability which he displayed in office being manifested in the fact that he was retained therein from 1835 until 1851. On his retirement from office, he turned his attention to merchandising, to which pursuit much of his later life was devoted. On the 22d of April, 1841, he married Miss Eliza Jane Gibson, who was born in Christianburg, Virginia, April 16, 1816. Her death occurred August 8. 1867, while William R. McCord passed away January 2-], 1881. Their family numbered four children: William, Jr., now deceased ; Isadora, the widow of S. N. Chambers, who is living in Indianapolis, Indiana ; Mary C. the wife of Joseph F. Harris, a resident of Kansas City, Missouri; and Charles G.

The last named was educated in \^incennes University which he entered at the age of six years, continuing his studies therein until April, 1865. He started in business life as assistant in his father's grocery store and there remained until September, 1870, when, desirous of obtaining further educational privileges, he entered Brown University of Providence, Rhode Island, and was graduated in June, 1873. Thus upon a broad classical knowledge he builded the superstructure of his professional learning. He began reading law with Judge N. W. \^iehe. remaining a student in his office from June, 1873, until October, 1875. Admitted to the bar, he formed a partnership with Colonel Cyrus M. Allen with whom he was associated in practice until October. 1877. when he opened a law office over the First National bank and specialized in the field of realestate law, including the preparation of abstracts to title. He has devoted his entire time to this branch of the profession and is accorded an extensive and gratifying clientage. Mr. McCord has made many abstracts of note, one being of the William Henry Harrison residence for the use of

On the 22d of December, 1881, in Mattoon, Illinois, Mr. McCord was married to Miss Leonora M. Drish, who was born at Carlinville, Macoupin county, Illinois, March 12, 1857. Her father. James F. Drish, a native of Leesburg, \'irginia, went to the gold fields of California in 1849 and following his return carried on merchandising. But when the Civil war broke out he put aside all business and personal considerations and joined the army, serving throughout the period of hostilities and returning with the rank of colonel. He married Rosella C. Keller, a native of Carlinville, Illinois. Unto Mr. and Mrs. McCord have been born two sons : J. Drish, who was born in Vincennes, November 5, 1887, and now resides in Portland, Oregon, and Frank C, who was born in Vincennes, August 2, 1890, and is now a member of the class of 191 1 in the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland.

In his fraternal relations Mr. McCord is a Mason, in religious faith a Presbyterian and in his political views a republican. These association indicate much of the nature and characted of his interests and the principles which govern his conduct. A lifelong resident of Vincennes, his record has been written in terms of honor and his many good qualities have gained for him a circle of friends coextensive with the circle of his acquaintance.

Charles P. Slocomb

More than a third of a century has passed since Charles P. Slocomb passed from this life yet he is well remembered by many of the older settlers who regarded him as a man of worth and honor. He lived in this city for about twenty years prior to his demise. His parents were Rufus T. and Mehitable (Merrill) Slocomb. The father was a merchant of Cincinnati and never lived in Indiana. He removed from the east to Ohio and there carried on business through much of his life.

Charles P. Slocomb spent his youthful days in his parents' home .and liberal educational privileges were afforded him, for after attending the public schools of Cincinnati, he continued his studies in the east. During the period of his residence in Vincennes he ranked as a prominent and influential citizen. In public affairs of the community he took an active and helpful interest and his influence was always on the side of right and progress.

Mr. Slocomb was married in Cincinnati to Miss Hannah A. Hebbard, a daughter of Hezekiah Hebbard. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Slocomb were born four children, two daughters and two sons, Mary Bell, Zelie, Hebbard and Rufus. Mr. Slocomb was a member of the Masonic fraternity which numbered him among its exemplary representatives, for he was in full sympathy with the basic principles of the craft, which has as its foundation belief in the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man. He was considered a man of well balanced judgment, never given to extremes and yet actuated by a progressive spirit that made him a valued and influential citizen of Vincennes during the twenty years of his residence here.

Vincennes has been the scene of the professional activities of Dr. W. H. Davenport almost continuously since he entered upon practice following his graduation from the JeflFerson Medical College of Philadelphia, and the consensus of public opinion attests his ability and his fidelity to the strictest ethics of the profession. He was born in Indianapolis, July 20, 1850. His father, Henry Davenport, was a native of Miami county, Ohio, bom March 26, 1822. The grandfather, Martin Davenport, removed from the Buckeye state to Indianapolis at an early period in the development of that city, when his son Henry was a young lad. The latter pursued his education in Indianapolis and became an architect and contractor. He built the first theater there and was closely and prominently associated with building operations until 1852, when he passed away, the victim of the cholera epidemic of that year. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Eliza A. Townsend, was born in Maryland on the 20th of November, 1824, her father having been a planter and slave-holder of that state. She survived her husband for only a brief period, passing away March 28, 1861. The only daughter of the family has also passed away.

Educated in his native city Dr. Davenport was a high school student there and also attended Notre Dame College. The financial difficulties of the family forced him to put aside his text-books and take up the arduous task of providing for his own support. When twenty-four years of age he began studying medicine, following the advice of his mother who, before her death, counseled him to become a doctor. He received thorough preliminary training for professional work in the State University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, and then went to Philadelphia, being graduated from the JeflFerson Medical College with the class of 1881. Thus thoroughly equipped in two of the best medical colleges of the country, he returned to Indianapolis for practice but in the same year came to Vincennes, arriving in July, 1881. For twenty-nine years he has been in continuous practice here and throughout the entire period has kept abreast of the advanced thought of the medical fraternity through his membership in the county, state and national medical associations. Private reading and research, too, have also broadened his knowledge and promoted his efficiency and in all of his work he has manifested a spirit of conscientious obligation that has been a resuhant force in his success. He has been connected as surgeon with the Vandalia, Big Four and Evansville & Terre Haute Railroad Companies for about a quarter of a century and at the present writing is surgeon for the New York Central lines and the Evansville & Terre Haute.

On the I2th of January, 1884, Dr. Davenport was married to Miss Ruth Watson, a daughter of L. L. Watson, an old settler of Vincennes. They are members of the Presbyterian church, in which Dr. Davenport is serving as a trustee and Mrs. Davenport as a deaconess. She takes a very active part in all branches of church work and is a generous contributor where charity is needed. They occupy a beautiful home which is the abode of warm-hearted hospitality.

Dr. Davenport is a genial, pleasant gentleman, with a smile and good word for every one, and is deservedly popular. His ability has placed him in the front rank of the medical fraternity in Vincennes, while the sterling traits of his character have gained him firm hold upon the affection of friends and neighbors. Free from ostentation or display, he nevertheless demands the warm regard of all with whom he comes in contact and is held in high esteem alike by young and old, rich and poor.

C. L. V. Tucker

The statement of Grover Cleveland that "A public office is a public trust," has become current and there is a growing demand that the trust that is given through popular suffrage shall be sacredly cherished. There has never been, perhaps, a more thorough awakening of the public conscience than at the present time, when on every hand active condemnation is meeting the man who is not loyal to the duties entrusted to his care. Reelection, therefore, is usually proof of both fidelity and capability on the part of the office-holder, and such is the case with Mr. Tucker, who in 1909 was reelected for a second term's service as city clerk of Vincennes. He was born in the neighboring state of Illinois, his birth having occurred in Noble on the 30th of April, 1863. His father, Joseph Tucker, and his grandfather, Abraham Tucker, were both natives of Pennsylvania. When a young man Joseph Tucker removed westward to Illinois, settling at Noble, and Abraham Tucker afterward joined him and there spent his last days. The mother of our subject bore the maiden name of Nancy Bedwell, and was a native of Grayson county, Kentucky. With her parents she removed to Illinois and in Noble formed the acquaintance of Joseph Tucker, who sought her hand in marriage. To provide for his family Mr. Tucker followed the occupation of farming, giving to that pursuit his undivided attention until his Hfe's labors were ended in death in 1866. His widow survived him for almost a quarter of a century and passed away in 1889.

C. L. V. Tucker was educated in the country schools and in the graded schools of Noble, while later he attended the high school in Mexico, Missouri, where an uncle lived. He afterward returned to the home farm in Illinois, there remaining until his mother's death. Subsequent to that time he spent two years in a store at Noble and on the expiration of that period turned his attention to the newspaper work in Mexico, Missouri, being connected with the Daily Ledger for two and a half years. On the expiration of that period he went to Indian Territory, where he remained for six months, and on leaving the southwest returned to his native state, settling in Olney, where he founded the Olney Democrat which he published for one year. After a short time spent in Chicago he came to Vincennes in April 1893, and for twelve years was connected with the Sun as city editor. He afterward spent one year with the Commercial, and then, putting aside individual interests, took upon himself the duties of public service through his election to the office of city clerk in 1905. In 1909 he was reelected for a second term, this coming to him as the endorsement of his previous four years' service. He has always been active in politics as an advocate of democratic principles, and is recognized as one of the local leaders of his party.

Mr. Tucker was married in Noble, Illinois, to Miss Stella Pea, a daughter of T. S. Pea, now a resident of Vincennes. They are the parents of five children, Percy, Frank, C. L. V., Jr., Marlin and Mildred.

In his fraternal relations Mr. Tucker is connected with the Odd Fellows, the Modern Woodmen of America and the Tribe of Ben Hur. He became well known in newspaper circles, his ability winning him recognition, and he is equally popular in public office, the high regard which is tendered him in this connection being based upon his loyalty to duty and the efficiency which he displays in conducting the public interests intrusted to his keeping.

E. L. Glass

E. L. Glass, city comptroller, serving for the second term in that office by reappointment by Mayor McDowell, was born in Vincennes, October 28, 1872. His father, John R. Glass, was a native of Bonn, Germany, and in 1833, when he was three years of age, was brought to the United States by his parents, who settled in Vincennes. His grandfather, Peter W. A. Glass, was a forester in the employ of the German government before he sought the opportunities of the new world. His trade was that of a tailor and after reaching America he gave his attention to that pursuit, but died of cholera shortly after arriving in the new world. His son, John R. Glass, became a carpenter and contractor and engaged extensively in the building of bridges and railroads. He was also active in politics as a supporter of democratic principles but the honors and emoluments of office had no attraction for him. He married Isabel Edeline, a native of Knox county, Indiana, whose father William Edeline, was of French Canadian birth. The death of John R. Glass occurred in 1908 when he was seventy-nine years of age. Of their family of twelve children seven are yet living.

In the public schools of Vincennes E. L. Glass pursued his education and after putting aside his text-books became associated with his father in carpentering and contracting. He was connected with the business until 1894, when he entered the post-office as chief clerk, there remaining until 1897. In that year he became bookkeeper for a mercantile firm with which he remained for five years, when he began contracting on his own account, continuing the business until 1906, when he accepted the office of city comptroller. In 1910 he was reappointed by Mayor McDowell, so that he is serving for the second term of four years.

In 1898 Mr. Glass was united in marriage to Miss Louise Thuis, a native of Vincennes and a daughter of Henry Thuis. They have become the parents of six children, Mary S., John, Elizabeth, Edwin, Clara and Martha. Mr. and Mrs. Glass are well known in this city where they have an extensive and growing circle of warm friends. Mr. Glass's record in public office is a creditable one, commending him to the confidence and warm regard of not only the advocates of democratic principles but also of adherents of the opposition party. Wherever he is known he is held in high esteem and most of all where he is best known.

William Boushie

William Boushie is numbered among Vincennes' citizens who were at one time connected with agricultural interests but are now living retired. He is still, however, the owner of an excellent farm comprising two hundred and forty acres of rich and productive land situated about ten and a half miles south of the city. Knox county numbers him among her native sons, for his birth occurred in Vincennes township, on the 17th of February. 1848, his parents being John L. and Rosann (Deloria) Boushie. The father was born and reared in this county upon the farm of his father, who was one of the old settlers here. The grandparents of our subject were Lawrence and Jeannette (Godair) Boushie but even they were not the first representatives of the name in this part of the state, for Lawrence Boushie was born in the city of Vincennes and was a son of Vetal and Susanna (Cardinal) Boushie. The latter was born and reared on the present site of the Huffman store. Vincennes is one of the oldest cities in all the Mississippi valley, having been founded as a French trading post long before it was dreamed that the inva:sion of settlers from the east would make this as much an American province as were the seaboard states. Vetal Boushie was born in Canada and was of French descent. The Cardinal family was established here among the first settlers penetrating into this district, when it was a wild western region, the Indians being far more numerous than the white inhabitants. The parents of Mrs. Vetal Boushie were from Canada and are mentioned in national history.

William Boushie has every reason to be proud of his ancestral history because of the close and honorable connection of earlier generations of the family with the development and upbuilding of this portion of the state. At the usual age he was sent as a pupil to the country school and therein mastered the branches of learning that usually constitute the district-school curriculum. The periods of vacation and the morning and evening hours were devoted to work upon the home farm and he early became familiar with all the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. He started in business on his own account on attaining his majority, first renting land until he had saved a sufficient sum to enable him to buy a farm. His first investment made him the owner of twenty acres and by hard work he brought this under a high state of cultivation and as his crops returned him a good income he added to his holdings until his farm now embraces two hundred and forty acres within its boundaries. He was engaged in raising the cereals best adapted to soil and climate and seldom did he fail to raise a good crop, for the land was productive and his methods of cultivation practical. He also engaged in raising some stock and in course of years met with such prosperity that he is now enabled to live retired, possessing a competence that supplies him with all of the comforts and some of the luxuries of life.

On the 2ist of November, 1882, Mr. Boushie was married to Miss Eulalie La Plant, whose ancestors in the paternal line were among the first settlers of Knox county, which means that the family for more than a century has been represented here. Thus both Mr. and Mrs. Boushie are connected with the oldest families of this portion of the state. He belongs to St. Xavier's church of which he is a prominent member, taking active part in its work and contributing generously to its support.

The name of Fairhurst has stood for three generations as a synonym for efficiency in the medical profession. Aside from the excellent work which he did as a general practitioner, Dr. Fairhurst was perhaps best known for his work in connection with the cure of the liquor, tobacco and drug habits - a work of inestimable benefit to those who have unfortunately passed beyond the point of self-control in such matters. All through his professional career he thought broadly, studied deeply and acted wisely and his labors were crowned with success that was not meas-

Dr. Fairhurst was born in Bruceville, this county, on the 15th of March, 1846. His father, Dr. William Fairhurst, was a native of Virginia, born in 181 1. When a boy he accompanied his parents to Knox county, Indiana, his father, Samuel Fairhurst, removing with his family to a farm in the vicinity of Bruceville. Thus the name has figured in connection with the history of this country for more than a century. Amid pioneer surroundings Dr. O'Connell Fairhurst spent the days of his boyhood and youth and supplemented his public school education by study in Butler University at Indianapolis. He afterward attended Rush Medical College of Chicago in 1868-1869 and then entered Bellevue Medical College of New York City, from which he was graduated with the class of 1870. He afterward pursued a special course of study in diseases of the eye, ear, nose and throat and in 1877 pursued a special course in surgery and anatomy in St. Louis. At intervals all through his life he repaired to some center of learning for further instruction in some branch of the profession which he had chosen as his life work and in this way kept continuously in touch with modern advancement. In 1877 he attended the St. Louis Medical College where he pursued a special course on the diseases and refraction of the eye.

Dr. Fairhurst located for practice in Bruceville where he continued in partnership with his father until 1875. Removing to Vincennes, he practiced in partnership with Dr. J. R. Mantle for five years and later was alone until 1885 when he formed a partnership with H. M. Smith and F. M. Harris. In this relation he continued until September 11, 1886, after which he remained alone until July, 1894, when he removed to Boston, Massachusetts, and joined Dr. R. C. Flower in practice, remaining in that city for four years. Upon his return to Vincennes at the expiration of that period he formed a partnership with W. B. Anderson and they were thus associated until 1899, after which Dr. Fairhurst practiced independently until the time of his death which occurred January 25, 1910. He was pension examiner for years under presidents Garfield and Arthur and all through his life concentrated his energies upon his professional duties and kindred interests. He devoted much time to a study of a cure for the liquor, tobacco and drug habits and perfected his cure in 1892, after which it was published in pamphlet form for distribution to members of the medical fraternity. It is a valuable work and one which will cause his name to be honored and revered for years to come.

On the 26th of April, 1870, Dr. Fairhurst was united in marriage to Miss Sallie R. Harrison of Vincennes, whose parents were early residents of Knox county. Four children were bom of this marriage: Sadie, now the wife of Dr. McCarty of Indianapolis; Omar, a practicing physician; and Emma and Ella, twins. The former is the wife of O. C. Phillips, a practicing lawyer of Memphis, Tennessee.

In his political views Dr. Fairhurst was always a republican and gave loyal support to the party and its principles. He was a highly respected citizen whose interest in pubhc affairs was manifested in his cooperation in many movements for the general good. His professional duties were always his first interest and yet he did not allow these to so absorb his time and energies as to exclude his active participation in events which were of vital significance to the community. In all social and professional relations he commanded the unqualified confidence and trust of his fellowmen and his death was the occasion of deep and widespread regret.

A member of the Fairhurst family needs no introduction in Knox county for through more than one hundred years representatives of the name have here resided and have been connected with all that has marked the progress and improvement of this section of the state. Dr. Omar Fairhurst. like others of the family, has selected the practice of medicine as his life work and like his father and grandfather before him, is meeting with success in this field. He was bom in Vincennes August 8, 1876, and after pursuing his early education in the schools of that city attended the Kentucky University. Taking up the study of medicine, he spent two years as a student in the Boston College of Physicians and Surgeons in Massachusetts and for one year was a student in the University of Louisville. He then entered Barnes Medical College of St. Louis, Missouri, from which he was graduated in 1899. He entered upon his professional career in connection with his father in Vincennes and the business association between them was maintained until his father's death, since which time Dr. Omar Fairhurst has remained alone in general practice in this city. The habits of thoroughness, perseverance and careful analysis which he formed at the outset of his practice are proving strong and potent elements in his professional advancement. Each forward step brings him a broader outlook and wider opportunities and his work has already reflected credit upon an untarnished family name.

Hon. W. A. Cullop

Two qualities not commonly met with in the same individual are prominent characteristics of W. A. CuUop of Vincennes, congressman, representing the second Indiana district. For years he has been one of the most distinguished members of the bar of southwestern Indiana and he is also a business man whose ability in large manufacturing and industrial concerns is shown by the position he occupies in such enterprises in Vincennes and the surrounding country. He is known as a scholar, a public speaker, a lawyer whose ability has been tested in many cases of great importance and a politician whose counsels have in more than one instance led to the success of his party at the polls. He has acted as delegate to state, county and nationl conventions and few men of his age in Indiana have had a wider experience or stand higher in the estimation of the community where they are best known.

W. A. Cullop is a native of Knox county, born March 28, 1853, upon a farm, where he made his home until twenty-one years of age. He is the son of William W. and Maria J. (Patterson) Cullop. His early education was acquired in the district and graded schools. Entering the freshmen class of Hanover College in 1874, he was graduated with the degree of A. B. four years later, receiving the honorary degree of A. M. from his alma mater in 1883. He taught school for two years and for two years was a teacher in the Vincennes University. Having decided upon the law as his profession, he studied under the Hon. T. R. Cobb of Vincennes and was admitted to the Knox county bar January i, 1881. Since that time he has been in active practice at Vincennes and is now senior member of the firm of Cullop & Shaw.

From the beginning of his professional career Mr. Cullop made a favorable impression and he soon gained recognition as an attorney who could be depended upon at all times to represent his clients' interests to the utmost of his ability. His initial appearance in public office was as prosecuting attorney of the twelfth judicial district, in which position he continued from 1882 to 1886, advancing rapidly and destined in the opinion of his friends to a position in the front rank. In 1890 he was elected on the democratic ticket to the legislature and re-elected in 1892. During the second session he was given the important position of chairman of the committee on ways and means and was also leader of the majority on the floor of the house. He became recognized as one of the leaders of his party in the state and has ever since been prominent in Indiana politics. In 1892 he was a delegate to the democratic national convention at Chicago and again in 1896. He was a member of the committee to notify Cleveland and Stevenson of their nomination in 1892. In 1900 he was democratic candidate for elector of the second district. As chairman of the committee on resolutions of the democratic state convention in 1904 he displayed great tact and a knowledge of men and afifairs that greatly increased the respect in which he had previously been held by delegates from all parts of Indiana. His name was prominently mentioned in connection with the gubernatorial nomination but he declined to run and receiving the nomination for congress from the second district, he entered the race and was elected for the term of 1909-1911. So acceptably did he fill the office that he was re-elected in the fall of igio.

As indicated above, Mr. Cullop does not confine his attention entirely to the law or politics. He has for many years been identified as officer and director with various business enterprises. He is vice president of the

Knox Coal Company, of Bicknell, Indiana, organized in 1900, and was a member of the board of directors of the Hartman Manufacturing Company, manufacturers of agricultural implements, at Vincennes; director of the Star Range & Shovel Company, of Vincennes; and stockholder in the Vincennes Paper Company. He is the owner of a highly improved farm of six hundred acres in Knox county and in business as in political affairs has fulfilled the prophecies of his friends of early days.

Mr. Cullop has been twice married. His first wife was Miss Kate S. Cobb, a daughter of Honorable R. T. Cobb, of Vincennes, and his present wife was Mrs. Artie Goodwin of Chicago, a lady of high accomplishments and great charm of appearance and manner. He has one daughter, Carolyn, who is now the wife of Victor Keller, a prominent attorney of San Antonio, Texas.

Mr. Cullop has been a hard worker all his life and yet has found time to cultivate the social amenities and has many friends in all political parties. He is a member of the Presbyterian church and of the Pastime Club. Nowhere is he so favorably spoken of as in the county where he was born and where he has spent fifty-seven years of an active and useful life and it is the unanimous verdict of the people of Knox county that the congressional record of their representative during the years 1909-1913 will redound to the credit of the district and the state.

John A. Ostendorf

John A. Ostendorf is numbered among the men of foreign birth who found in Vincennes the chance of working upward through the utilization of their own ability and talents. Emerson declared that "America is another name for opportunity." Given time and opportunity, what results may be achieved by ambition and industry the lives of our successful men illustrate. Little wonder that, as President Harrison once observed: "The gates of Castle Garden never swing outward." Millions have severed home ties in distant lands to seek in the United States the opportunity for advancement denied them abroad. To this class belonged John A. Ostendorf, who became one of the early jewelry merchants of Vincennes. He was a man of well developed activities and powers and long occupied a prominent position on the stage of business action in this city. He was bom in the town of Dinklage, Germany, on the 14th of December, 1834, and a lifetime of seventy years was allotted him - years which were well spent and brought him not only substantial success but also the good will and esteem of his fellowmen. He pursued his education in the schools of his native country while spending his youthful days in the home of his parents, John H. and Helena (Boeckman) Ostendorf. The father crossed the Atlantic to America, accompanied by his children, all except

John A. Ostendorf learned the jeweler's trade in Germany under the direction of his father and remained in that country until nineteen years of age, when he determined to test the truth of the reports which he had heard concerning America and its business chances. Accordingly he bade adieu to friends and family and sailed for the United States, landing at New Orleans. From that point he made his way northward, the latter part of his journey being made in a stage coach. He had borrowed money with which to come to America and his first thought was to discharge this indebtedness, which he soon accomplished by reason of his close application and unfaltering industry. He became one of the pioneer jewelry merchants of Vincennes, establishing business on a small scale, but gradually developed a good trade until his enterprise had grown to extensive and profitable proportions. He carried a large and attractive line of jewelry of domestic and foreign manufacture, and the tasteful arrangement of his store and his reliable business methods were also elements in his success.

On the 13th of May, 1862, Mr. Ostendorf was united in marriage to Miss Caroline Duesterberg, a daughter of G. H. and Caroline (Bockman) Duesterberg. Six children were born of this marriage. Catherine, who was educated in the schools of Vincennes, resides at home with her mother. Henry B., who married Hortense Debuiseret, has three children, Mary C, John H. and Ruth. John H., John M., Frank N. and Edward are all deceased. Mr. Ostendorf was a member of St. John's German Catholic church and died in that faith on the 23d of December, 1904.

His life record has covered three score years and ten and it contains many lessons which might be profitably considered and pondered. His business career indicates what may be accomplished through determined and honorable efifort and, moreover, his success never represented another's loss but was the result of effort intelligently applied. The genuine use which he made of his means in assisting others marked him, moreover, as a man of kindly spirit. His life in all of its varied phases was characterized by principles of truth and honor.

Charles G. Mathesie

Charles G. Mathesie has now reached the seventy-seventh milestone on life's journey but is still active in the public service, filling the oflfice of deputy city treasurer. He has at different times been closely associated with this and other public offices and his record in these connections has ever been one which at all times has commended him to the confidence and high regard of his fellowmen. A native of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Mr.

Mathesie was born on the nth of December, 1833, of the marriage of Christian M. and Mary Ditman, both natives of Germany, in which country they were reared, educated and married. The father was a gunsmith by trade and served under Napoleon in charge of the gunsmith's department. Two children were bom unto him and his wife ere they bade adieu to the fatherland and sailed for the United States. Settling in Lancaster, Christian Mathesie entered the employ of the government as a gunsmith and there remained until 1846 when he came to Indiana, settling first at Evansville. He afterward lived at New Harmony for ten years and then returned to Evansville where his death occurred in 1858. His wife passed away a year later.

Accompanying his parents on their westward removal in his early boyhood days, Charles G. Mathesie pursued his studies in the public schools of Evansville and entered business circles as a clerk in a mercantile establishment, being thus employed for a number of years. In 1854 he came to Vincennes and accepted a clerical position in the postoffice under J. A. Dick, the position being secured for him by the postmaster in Evansville. He served in that capacity for two years and then turned his attention to merchandising, but afterward returned to the postoffice under Judge Moore, there remaining until the first election of Abraham Lincoln to the presidency. In 1861 Mr. Mathesie was elected city clerk and by reelection was continued in the position for eight years. He was then elected county treasurer in 1870 and filled the ofifice for two terms. While city clerk he also acted as deputy county treasurer and in both positions made an unassailable record, his course being characterized by fidelity as well as ability in the discharge of his duties. He next turned his attention to the grocery business, becoming senior partner of the firm of Mathesie & Horsting, in which connection he remained for two years, when he sold his interest to his partner and returned to the court house as deputy treasurer which office he occupied for four years. In 1885 he was appointed to fill out an unexpired term of the defaulting county treasurer and at the end of that time was nominated for the position of treasurer but was defeated. Later he was appointed to fill out an unexpired term in the office of the city treasurer and afterward was elected to the office but resigned his position before the expiration of the term in order that he might accept the position of secretary and treasurer of the Citizens' Gas Company. He acted in that capacity for eleven years and much of the success of the enterprise was due to his capable management and close application. In 1879 he organized the first building and loan association of Vincennes, known as the Vincennes Building & Loan Association, No. i. He also aided in organizing the Knox Building & Loan Association in 1883 and has continuously served as its secretary to the present time. In 1908 he entered the city treasurer's office of which he had charge during the illness of the regularly elected incumbent. On the 1st of January, 1910, the offices of city treasurer and county treasurer both came under the same management and Mr. Mathesie was made deputy city treasurer, which position he now holds. In i860 he was appointed census taker for his township and thus through much of his life he has continued in the public service, his faithfulness and capability being the cause of his selection for office again and again.

Mr. Mathesie was married in 1858 to Miss Amanda B. Coleman, a native of Vincennes and a daughter of Jeremiah Coleman, a pioneer millwright of this vicinity. They have two daughters who are yet living: Cora L., now the wife of Earl H. Buck; and Nellie, who is engaged in teaching music. They also lost two sons: William S., who died at the age of fourteen years; and Charles, who died at the age of eleven months.

Mr. Mathesie belongs to Vincennes Lodge No. i, A. F. & A. M., and is now its oldest representative. He is likewise connected with the Knights of Pythias fraternity and with the Presbyterian church. His activities have never been bounded by narrowing individual interests. Local advancement and national progress are causes both dear to his heart. He is a well informed man upon the great questions of the day, which are regarded as of vital significance.

Henry H. Schwartz

Henry H. Schwartz, manager of the Vincennes water-works since 1889, and otherwise prominently connected with business interests in this city, wherein he has manifested the most salient elements of his character - earnest purpose and unfaltering determination - is a native of Germany, born October 29, 1857. His father. Christian Schwartz, and his mother, Fredericka (Jahn) Schwartz, were also natives of that country in which they spent their entire lives.

At the usual age Henry H. Schwartz entered the schools of Germany wherein he pursued his studies until a youth of eleven years, when he came alone to America at the request of an uncle in Massillon, Ohio. The voyage was made upon a sailing vessel, and he started to work in a coal mine in Massillon before he was twelve years of age. Few have so worthily won the proud American title of "a self-made man." His record is another proof of the fact that the dynamics of the human will can overcome any human difficulty and that a fixed and unalterable purpose, pursued under all circumstances, in season and out of season, with no shadow of turning, is the best motive power a man can have. Mr. Schwartz continued a resident of Ohio until 1888 but only worked for six months in the mines, as he constantly sought broader and better opportunities leading toward success. He was employed for a time in a paper mill and then learned the machinist's trade, becoming a stationary engineer. He began running an engine when only seventeen years of age and has continued in the same field of activity to the present.

He came to Vincennes in 1889 to take charge of the water-works plant, which at that time was operated for only twelve hours daily but is now in operation for twenty hours each day. During this period many improvements have been made and others are contemplated. The waterworks system of the city has been brought to a high state of efficiency, giving adequate service to the public, and is run on as economical a basis as can be done' without sacrifice to good service. That Vincennes feels that she made a wise choice in her selection of Mr. Schwartz as manager of the water-works of this city is evident from the fact of his twenty-one years' service in the position. Extending his eflforts into other fields which, however, have never interfered with the faithful performance of his duty in this connection, he is now president of the North Side Building & Loan Association and for a number of years was president of the Vincennes Ice & Cold Storage Company but eventually resigned as its chief executive officer.

Mr. Schwartz has been married twice. In 1877, in Masillon, Ohio, he wedded Miss Louise Locker, who died in 1896. In 1898 he married Miss Marie Hamke. He has eleven children, six of whom are now living. He is prominent in the German societies of the city, is president of the Harmonic Verein and is a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. His high rank as a citizen, who is devoted to the public welfare, is never questioned, while the qualities which he manifests in individual and private relations have won for him the respect and good will of the people of his adopted city.

Among the younger members of the Knox county bar, whose ability has been attested in forensic contest with many an older and more experienced attorney, his ability proving his power as an advocate, is numbered S. M. Emison, a native son of Knox county, bom August 8, 1879. His father, James Emison, also a native of this county, was bom October 22, 1846, and one of the most successful and representative business men of Vincennes. He is now senior member of the firm of J. & S. Emison, millers, actively engaged in the promotion of one of the leading productive industries of the city. He married Hulda M. McClelland, a native of Knox county, bom October 22, 1846. Her life covered the intervening years to 1881, when she was called to her final rest. The family numbered two sons and three daughters, but the brother of our subject, Hugh Harper, died at the age of sixteen years.

In the pursuit of his education S. M. Emison attended the Vincennes University and also the University of Indiana, from which he was graduated with the class of 1899, thereby completing his more specifically liter- ary course. His law studies were pursued in the office of J. W. Emison, and following his admission to the bar in 1900 he formed a partnership with J. P. Haughton, with whom he was connected in the practice of law until Mr. Haughton's death in 1909. Since that time Mr. Emison has been alone. His progress has been continuous and gratifying. In no profession does advancement depend more entirely upon individual merit and ability than in the law. Mr. Emison, however, brought to the starting point of his career certain excellent qualities - a good presence, a dignified manner, when appearing before the court, and a keen power of analysis. In his presentation of a case he seems to lose sight of no essential point and gives to each element of law and fact its due relative prominence. In 1902 he was elected prosecuting attorney, serving for two terms. His standing among his professional brethren is indicated by the fact that in 1907 he served as president of the Knox County Bar Association - an honor seldom conferred upon so young a man.

In 1907 Mr. Emison was married to Miss Emily Adams, a native of Knox county and a daughter of John C. Adams, a lawyer of considerable local prominence who has served as county attorney and has been connected with much important litigation tried in the courts of the district. Mrs. Emison is a granddaughter of General Culberson, and thus represents two of the old families of this part of the state.