Washington Township (part 3 of 9)

SAMUEL HOUSE, a farmer of Washington Township, Knox Co., Ind., is a son of Burket and Eliza (Fairhurst) House. The father was born in 1789, in Virginia. The mother, a native of the same State, was born in 1796. In that State they grew to years of maturity and married. Soon after they moved to Ohio, where they remained until 1816, when they came to Vincennes, Ind., and lived two years. Having moved to this township, they here spent the rest of their days. By occupation the father was a farmer, which calling he followed during his entire life. In their family were thirteen children, all of whom have been farmers. The father was a member of the Baptist Church and his wife of the Christian Church. As to political preferences he was a Whig, and after the death of that party became a Republican. In his early settling here he was a great hunter. Many a wolf and deer have been a prey to his skill as a marksman. In 1874 the father died. The mother outlived him four years. Samuel's ancestors, on both sides, were of English descent. He was born in 1820, in Washington Township. In boyhood he had almost no advantages for education, attending the old-time schools at a distance of from two to three miles, and not going but two or three days in a week. At the age of twenty-one he began to battle his own way in the world. Having learned the carpenter's trade, he thought that too dependent a calling, consequently he turned his attention to farming, and in connection with that has followed his trade to a limited extent. In 1844 he was married to Julia Boyd, born in 1827 in Virginia. She is a daughter of John T. and Christina (Arney) Boyd. To Mr. and Mrs. House ten children were born: Ellis, Martha, John B., Caroline, Mary, Alice, Helen, Anna, James M. and an infant, deceased. James is one of the teachers of Washington Township. Mrs. House is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. House is a stanch Republican, and cast his first vote for Clay. Having saved the money he earned at 12i cents a day, he bought 100 acres of land in 1843, for which he largely went in debt. Since, by hard work and good management, he has increased his farm to 340 acres. Having moved the large house in which he now lives a mile distant to its present position, he kept postoffice in it during the war. As a farmer he has been quite successful. He is an example of what a young man of determination can do. Having started with nothing, he has arisen to the ownership of a good farm.

CAPT. ELLIS HOUSE, son of Samuel and Julia (Boyd) House, was born in Knox County, Ind., in 1845. In boyhood he had very poor advantages of education, attending the old-time schools, and not going more than two terms altogether. At the age of sixteen, when the nation was calling for "more troops," he enlisted as a private in Company E, Fifty-first Indiana Infantry, in 1861. From private he arose to corporal, and in 1864 he becamefirst lieutenant. In 18G4 he was veteranized and made captain of his company. He was at Stone River (where he was wounded), Day's Gap, Crooked Creek, Blount's Farm, Pulaski, Columbia, Franklin, and Nashville. At the latter engagement a minie-ball shattered his left arm, for which the Government pays him $14.50 per month. After serving faithfully for over four years he returned home and began farming. In 1866 he purchased 167 acres of land where he now lives, which he has increased to 267 acres. He was married, in 18G6, to Nancy E. Robinson, born in Knox County in 1848. To them were born these children: Ora A., Ephraim W., John L., Estella G., William E. and Louis C. Mr. House is a stanch Republican, and cast his first vote for U. S. Grant. He, wife and four children are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

SAMUEL T. JOHNSON, one of the prominent farmers of Washington Township, is a son of Samuel and Mary (Martin) Johnson. The father was born in 1771, in Maryland. After reaching manhood he married, but his wife soon died. Having removed to Kentucky he met Miss Martin, to whom he was married in 1810. In that State they remained till 1826, when they came to this county and State, and located where Samuel T. now lives. By occupation the father was a farmer, owning at his death about 800 acres of land. Both he and bis wife were members of the Christian Church. During his entire life he was an industrious, energetic worker. Both died but a few hours apart in 1845, and were buried in the same grave. Samuel's ancestors on his mother's side were of Irish descent; on his father's lineage uncertain. Our subject was born in 1819, in Bourbon County, Ky. In boyhood he had only the advantages of the old-time schools. He lived with his parents until their deaths. In 1815 he was married to Catherine Bruce, born about 1826. After the brief period of a little more than two years she died. In 1849 he was again married, this time to Mary (Lemen) Post, the widow of Peter M. Post, by whom she had two children, Eliza and William H, who died in a hospital at Knosville, Tenn. To Mr. and Mrs. Johnson seven children were born: James B., Samuel, Clara B., Thomas L., Mary R., Nancy E. and Joe B. Both husband and wife are members of the Christian Church. Mr. Johnson is a stanch Republican, though he voted the Democratic ticket till the breaking out of the war. As a farmer he has been fairly successful.

HARRIS KARNS, one of the farmers of Washington Township, is a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Stalk) Karns. The father was born in Yirginia. The mother was a native of Maryland. When young both moved with their parents to Tennessee, where they were married and spent the remainder of their days. In their family were twelve children, ten of whom they raised. By trade the father was a blacksmith, and in connection with that ran a small farm. He was a member of the Lutheran Church, his wife of the Presbyterian. During his entire life he was an industrious, energetic worker. In 1845 the mother died. The father lived ten years longer. Harris1 ancestors on both sides were of German descent. He was born, in 1815, in Knox County, Tenn. In boyhood he had very poor opportunities of schooling, not attending more than twelve months all told. At the age of twenty-one he began to battle his own way in the world. After working by the month for a short time he mounted his horse and went to southern Illinois, where he was married, 1839, to Susan Buchanan, born in 1820, in Wabash County, 111. Having lived in that State some four years, he moved to Posey County, Ind., and finally back to Tennessee. To Mr. and Mrs. Karns five children were born: Emily, Elizabeth. Liza J., John W. and Henry P. Mr. and Mrs. Karns, and all the children, are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Karns is a stanch Republican. His first vote was cast for White. During the war he was actively eugaged in secretly transporting Union men out of the rebel country. Language cannot express the dangers, hardships and privations he and his family had to endure. In 1864 he left Tennessee for this State. At first he bought 100 acres where he now lives, mostly in the woods. By hard work and good management he has since increased his farm to 200 acres, of which some 170 acres are under cultivation. In 1870 Mrs. Karns died. Mr. Karns still lives at the ripe old age of seventy, widely known and highly respected.

WILLIAM M. KESSINGER, one of the farmers of Washington Township, is a son of Peter and Susannah (Morette) Kessinger. The father was born in 1788, in Lancaster County, Penn. The mother, a native of the same State, was some three or four years younger. There they grew to years of maturity, and were married in Cumberland County. The family consisted of nine children, seven of whom reached manhood. One of the girls, Mary, was a teacher in Lutherville College, Maryland. By trade the father was a carpenter, which calling he followed in early life, but afterward betook himself to farming, which calling he followed till his death. Both parents were members of the Lutheran

Church. When a young man, the father was a Federalist, later in life he changed to a Democrat, which he continued to be till the breaking out of the Rebellion, when he became a warm supporter of Republican principles. During his entire life he was an industrious, energetic worker. Both died and were buried in their native State. William's ancestors on his father's side were German ; on his mother's, French. He was born in 1827, in Cumberland County, Penn. In boyhood he had ordinary advantages of education, his father was one of those thoroughgoing old Germans, who are quite as anxious to see material jn-ogress as intellectual advancement. While growing up he learned wagon-making, and on reaching manhood attended Kingston Academy. After thus preparing himself he taught for some eight terms. For some time he worked at his trade wherever he could get a job, but in 1852 he opened a shop in Bruceville. In 1853 he was married to Margaret J. Bruce, born in 1830, in Bruceville. She is a daughter of William and Hettie R. (Holmes) Bruce. To Mr. and Mrs. Kessinger these eight children were born: L. Augustus, William E., Ellis "M., Clarence B., Orro (deceased), Hettie B., Flora E. and Pearl. All have been teachers save Orro and Pearl. William E. is a practicing j>hysician in Monroe City, Knox Co., Ind., and Clarence B. is a rising young lawyer of Vincennes. Mrs. Kessinger is a member of the Christian Church. In 1862 Mr. Kessinger volunteered in Company K. of Seventieth Illinois Infantry, and after serving three months was discharged and resumed peaceful pursuits. In 1863, the war having destroyed his trade, he bought 100 acres where he now lives, and has since devoted his entire attention to agricultural pursuits. As a farmer he has been quite successful. He is a man who takes a deep interest in the education of the rising generation, having given all his children good educations.

JAMES P. MARTIN, one of the early settlers of Washington Township, is a son of William and Edie (Parker) Martin. Both parents were natives of Maryland, where they were married. After living there for some time they moved to West Virginia. Here the father died about 1807, and after his death the mother married Alex Connell. Soon after they moved to Ohio, where her second husband died. Then James brought her to this county, where she died in 1841. By trade the father was a shoemaker, which calling he followed during his entire life. Our subject was born in 1807, in Brook County, W. Va. In boyhood he had almost no advantages for schooling. His stepfather was a man who looked upon schools as a place to go when no work could be foiind. James lived with him till twenty -two years of age, and then struck out for himself. Thinking himself deficient in education he attended school for some time, and in 1830 he came to Knox County, and after farming two years he enlisted in the Blackhawk war, going near Chicago for equipments. At Rock Island, 111., cholera broke out in the camp, from which many died. Mr. Martin was taken with it, but his strong constitution wore out the disease. Having returned and spent the winter, they went out the following spring as far north as the Portage. Having saved his wages on this campaign, he returned and bought sixty-five acres of timber land, and began to make himself a farm. From that he has increased his farm, from time to time, until he now owns 250 acres, of which 175 acres are under cultivation. In 1833 Mr. Martin was married to Martha Chambers, born in 1817 in Knox County. She was a daughter of James and Lydia (Hollingsworth) Chambers. To Mr. and Mrs. Martin nine children were born, viz. : Emily, William H, Mary A., George, Lydia, Enoch, John, "Winfield S. and Martha A. In 1850 Mrs. Martin died, and the same year he married Nancy Thorn, born in 1827 in Knox County. She is a daughter of George L. and Mary (Wilson) Thorn. To this second marriage two children were born: Andrew and an infant (deceased). Andrew is married to Katie Bain, and lives on the old homestead. Mr. Martin is a stanch Republican, and his first vote was cast for Harrison. As a farmer he has been quite successful. Mr. Martin is one of the old-time hunters, having killed more deer, perhaps, than any other man now living in the township, having been an eye witness of many fights between wounded deer and dogs.

JOSEPH H. McCLESKY is a son of Joseph H. and Martha (Dickey) McClesky, who were born in South Carolina, but spent the most of their lives in Kentucky, where they were married. They came to Daviess County, Ind., at an early period, and re- mained here until their respective deaths in 1845 and 1857. They were members of the Presbyterian Church, and the father was a Whig. Joseph, our subject, was born in Daviess County, Ind., in 1830, and is of Scotch-Irish descent. At the age of seventeen he began to make his own way in the world. He purchased seventy acres of land, and soon paid for it. After attending the State University for a year he sold his farm and began merchandising in Plainville, continuing there seven years. He then sold his stock and began speculating in land, and after a short time came to Knox County, in 1861, and purchased 200 acres of land where he now lives. In 1856 he was married to Martha J. Trotter, born in North Carolina in 1836. daughter of Samuel and Louisa (Carrol) Trotter. Mr. and Mrs. McClesky are the parents of one child, viz.: Mattie S. All are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mrs. McClesky is a Republican. His first vote was cast for Scott. He has held the office of township trustee.

DR. JAMES McDOWELL, the leading physician of Bruceville, Ind., is a son of James and Mary C. (Moore) McDowell. The father was born about 1818, in Washington County, Penn. The mother was a native of Jefferson County, Ohio. At the age of nineteen, having prepared himself for the practice of medicine, he began his work in Jefferson County, where he was soon after married. Of this marriage three children were born, two sons and one daughter. In 1810 the mother died, and after her death he was married to Caroline Erwin. To them two children were born - one son and one daughter. The boys of both families of children are practicing physicians. From Jefferson County he moved to Columbiana County, where he married his second wife, and in 1865 came to Sullivan County, Ind., where he has had a good practice, and still follows his profession to a limited extent, being now sixty-seven years old. Our subject was born in 1848, in Jefferson County, Ohio. When a boy he attended the common schools, and on reaching manhood attended a two-years' term at De Pauw University. Having returned he studied medicine two years, and in 1860 engaged in the mercantile business as a salesman for C. H. Baker, of Freelandsville. Some six years later he started a store of general merchandise in

Pleasantville, Ind. In 1875 he was married to Sarah Jane Hollingsworth, born in 1856, in Knox County. She is a daughter of Samuel E. and Nancy (Delay) Hollingsworth. To Mr. and Mrs. McDowell one child was^born. Sarah Jane. In 1877 Mrs. McDowell died, and a few weeks later the child also died. After the death of his wife Mr. McDowell took a complete course of instruction at the Hospital College of Medicine, at Louisville, Ky., graduating in 1880. The same year he located in Bruceville, where he has worked up an extensive practice. In 1883 he took to wife Nancy J. Willis, born 1866, in Bruceville. She is daughter of John T. and Mary (Piety) Willis. To Mr. and Mrs. McDowell one child was born - Blanche C. Mrs. McDowell is a member of the Christian Church, and he is a Presbyterian and a stanch Democrat, and cast his first vote for Greeley. When only fourteen years old he made two applications to join the Union Army, but was rejected. As a physician he has been very successful, enjoying a good share of the respect and confidence of the entire community. He also takes considerable interest in thoroughbred trotting horses, which promise to make extra horses on the track.

DB. JOHN W. MILAM, one of the leading physicians of Bruceville, is a son of William S. and Emma (Beckes) Milam, natives of Indiana, bom in 1827 and 1828, respectively. The father when young moved with his parents to Knox County, Ind., where he remained until fifteen years of age. He then went to Johnson Township, and there spent the remainder of his days. He was a farmer through life, and held the offices of justice of the peace and township trustee, and in 1856 he was chosen county commissioner, and held that position ten years. He was a Democrat, and died in 1874. The mother still lives. Our subject was born in an old-fashioned log house in Knox County, in 1855. At the common schools he prepared himself for teaching, and after following that calling for some time he went to the State Normal School. His father having died insolvent, he and his brother took the burden of his debts on their shoulders, and paid the entire amount of indebtedness. The mother also sacrificed all her rights in the estate, that every creditor might be paid. In 1878 our subject was elected county superintendent, and filled that position to the entire satisfaction of all. He accumulated enough money to pay his debts and enable him to attend the medical department of the University of Louisville, and was among ten who stood highest in a class of 100. He graduated in 1881, and located in Vincennes, where he practiced a short time, and then moved to Bruceville, where he is doing well. In 1878 he was married to Ida Gude, born in Oaktown in 1855. They have three children: Raymond, Meda and Muriel. Dr. Milam is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and his wife of the Christian Church. He is a Republican, and cast his first vote for Hayes.

EPHRAIM PHILLIPPE, one of the leading farmers of Washington Township, is a son of Peter and Rebecca (Fox) Phillippe. His father was born in Wythe County, Va., in 1808, and his mother in Smyth County, Va., in 1807. They both grew to maturity in their native State, and were married in Wythe County, in 1824. After a residence there of some eight years they came to Knox County, Ind., in 1832, and after renting for three years, purchased the farm upon whicli the subject of this sketch now resides, and upon which they both lived until their deaths. While in Pennsylyania, they were both members of the Lutheran Church, but upon coming to this country, and rinding no Lutheran Church within reach, he joined the Presbyterian Church, and she, the Methodist Episcopal. Politically he is an old-time Democrat. In early life he was a great hunter of bears, panthers and deer, and many a deer fell at the flash of his unerring rifle. He died in 1854, his wife in 1878; both were of German descent. Such was the ancestry of the subject of this sketch, who was born in Wythe Coimty, Va., in 1828. In boyhood his advantages for obtaining an education were very limited, on account of the scarcity of schools and the demand for labor at home. The first schoolhouse he ever entered had neither nail nor pane of glass. After the death of their father all nine of the children remained at home and worked the farm together until they were married, when each went to himself. Having purchased the interests of the other heirs Ephraim had a farm of 207 acres; since then, by hard work and good management, he has increased his farm to 870 acres. In 1SG6 he was married to Naomi J. (Robinson) Stephenson, who was born in Knox County in 1826, and who was a daughter of Harmon and Eleanor (Steen) Robinson. Mr. Phillippe is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, while Mrs. Phillippe is a member of the Presbyterian. He is an ardent and earnest Democrat, having cast his first vote for Buchanan.

WILLIAM D. PIETY, one of the leading farmers of "Washington Township, is a son of Thomas and Mary (Duncan) Piety. His father was a native of Pennsylvania, born in a British fort, and the first child born west of the Alleghany Mountains. In his day he was a great Indian fighter, having been in nine campaigns against the savages. On one of these raids, the one under St. Clair, he was severely wounded. Being one of a number cut off from the army, he was trying to make his way back. Seeing an Indian behind a tree, he raised his gun to fire, but the savage fired a little first, piercing him through the hips. By means of a horse, however, he made good his escape. In 1792 he and Miss Duncan were married in Kentucky. They were the parents of fourteen children - seven boys and seven girls - all of the former following the occxipation of farming. Until about thirty years old he was a firm believer in the doctrines of the Baptist Church; but after reading the able presentation of Gospel truths by Alexander Campbell, he became a leading member of the Christian Church. In 1814 he left Kentucky for Sullivan County, Ind., and the following year came to Knox County, where he spent the remainder of his days. He lived sixty-five years ; his wife eighty. The Piety family is of English descent. William's grandfather was a noted landlord in England, holding a high office in the English Army. On his death the estate should have fallen to William, but he gave a power of attorney to a man who used it to his own advantage. The subject of this sketch was born in Breckenridge County, Ky., in 1808. In boyhood he had almost no advantages for education, barely learning to read and write, and at the age of eighteen he began life on his own account. At first he worked one month for wages, and then began cropping. By good management he saved enough to buy fifty acres of land, and afterward increased it to 420 acres. In 1830 he was married to Sally A. Threlkeld, born in Knox County, in 1811. To this marriage were born eleven children: Sarah J., Angeline, Mary, Samuel T., Amanda T., Thomas, Susan, Rachel M., Alice E. and Francis A. Thomas was one of the brave boys who fell in the battle of the Wilderness, after a faithful service of three years. Both himself and wife are members of the Christian Church, of which Mr. Piety has been an elder forty years. Mrs. Piety died in 1878. He is a stanch Republican, and cast his first vote for Henry Clay.

JAMES PRICE, farmer, is a son of John and Jane (Hobbs) Price, who were born in North Carolina and Maryland in 1800 and 1802 respectively. When young they moved to West Virginia, where they were married about 1822. Some nine years later they moved to Wayne County, W. Va., where they lived until their death. There were eight children in the family, all of whom were farmers. The father died in 1884, and the mother in 1849. James, our subject, was born in West Virginia in 1834. He is of English lineage, and secured his education in the old-time subscription schools. At the age of twenty-one he began working for himself as a farm hand, and on flat-boats and steam-boats, or at whatever presented itself. He thus accumulated about $600, but at the breaking out of the war the Southern bank bills, of which the most of his money consisted, were worth nothing, so he was left almost destitute. In 1850 he was married to Mary A. Dennison, born in Ohio in 1835. To them were born these children: Sarah, Ida, James B., Alvin, Adaline, William and John. In 1863 they moved to Ohio, but soon after came to Indiana, and in 1865 came to Knox County, where they have since lived. In 1869 he purchased 109 acres of land, which he has since increased to 370 acres. He is a supporter of Democratic principles, and is a thoroughly good farmer and citizen.

JAMES S. RICHEY, deceased, was born in 1835, in Steen Township, son of John and Elizabeth (Steen ) Richey, born in 1791 and 1795. James grew to manhood in his native township, and in 1864 moved to Washington Township, where he spent the remainder of his days. In 1861 he married Nancy A. Fitzpatrick, born in Knox County in 1840. Her father was a Baptist minister. To Mr. and Mrs. Richey four children were born : Richard H, John W., Katie E. and James W., all of whom, save Richard, are living in Florida. James received forty acres of land from his father, and by his industry and economy increased his farm to 231 acres. He was a Democrat, and a member of the Presbyterian Church, and died at the age of forty-six. The farm has since been managed by his eldest son, Eichard H., who was born in Steen Township, in 1862. In boyhood he had good educational advantages, and, after attending the common schools, went to Lebanon, Ohio, during the winter of 1882-83. In 1884 he was married to Laura, daughter of C. C. and Cynthia (Alton) McClure, born in Washington Township in 1864. To Mr. and Mrs. Eichey one child was born, named James S. Mr. Eichey is a strong Democrat, and his first vote was cast for Grover Cleveland.

JOHN T. SAETOE, one of the prominent farmers of Washington Township, is a son of John and Sarah (Hollingsworth) Sartor, natives of Knox County, Ind.. and born in 1810 and 1811, respectively. They were married in 1831 and spent the lives of farmers. They were members of the Christian Church and the father was a Eepublican in politics. The father died in 1871 and the mother the following ye?r. They reared eight children. John Sartor was born in the same township as his parents in 1845, and is probably of Irish descent. He remained witb his parents until their death, when he came into possession of a farm of 120 acres, where he has since made his home. , He now owns 160 acres of good land, about 140 of which are under cultivation. In 1873 he was married to Mary B. Eichey, born in Washington Township in 1854, and daughter of Eichard S. and Mary J. (McClure) Eichey, who were born in Knox County in 1825 and 1827, respectively. The father died in 1876 but the mother is yet living. Mr. and Mrs. Sartor became the parents of these children: John L., Eichard S., Effie D. and Jennie P. Both husband and wife are members of the Christian Church, and he is a Eepublican and cast his first vote for Lincoln. He is a good farmer and is always ready to support worthy enterprises.

WILLIAM T. SCOTT, farmer, is a son of Archibald and Catherine (Purcell) Scott, born in 1792 and 1801, respectively. They came to this county when qiiite young, and here were married and followed agricultural pursuits. The father was a soldier in the war of 1812, and both he and wife were members of the Presbyterian Church. He died in 1873. The mother yet lives.

William was born in Knox County, Ind., in 1821, and is of Irish- Dutch descent. He attended the old subscription schools in boyhood, and remained with and assisted his parents on the farm until twenty-six years of age. In 1847 he led to Hymen's altar, Elizabeth Huntington, born in Ohio in 1828. To them were born ten children: Catherine, Andrew, Anna, John, Jane, Alice, Morton, Cora, Rosette, and an infant deceased. Mr. Scott received fifty acres of land from his father. He has increased it from time to time until he now owns 178 acres, 160 acres being under cultivation. Mrs. Scott is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he belongs to the Republican party. He is an enterprising citizen and farmer, and is much respected by his neighbors and friends.

JOSEPH H. SCROGIN is a son of John H. and Lucinda (Bruce) Scrogin, who were natives of Kentucky and Indiana, respectively, and born in 1809. In early life the father came to this neighborhood, where he grew to manhood and was married May 5, 1835. He followed agricultural pursuits and assisted in the early Indian wars. He died March 3, 1848, and the mother February 21, 1870. Our subject was born in Knox County in 1836. In boyhood he had almost no opportunities for schooling, but on reaching manhood he worked his own way in school at Ladoga, Ind. In 1861, at the breaking out of the war, he enlisted in Company H, Fifty-first Indiana Infantry, and of seventeen months' service over half was spent in the hospital with rheumatism. He was honorably discharged, and returned home and clerked for Roberts & Baird in Bruceville. Some two years later he tried farming, but finding his physical strength insufficient he abandoned farming and for over two years was disabled by rheumatism. In 1879 he set up for himself in the mercantile business, in which he has since been engaged. In 1866 he was married to Nancy J. Gano, born in Knox County in 1837. They have five children, viz. : Mattie B., Lucinda M., George W., Anna and Rosie. Mattie is one of the rising teachers of the county. Husband and wife and two eldest children are members of the Christian Church. Mr. Scrogin is a warm Republican and cast his first vote for Lincoln. He is a good business man and one who bears the confidence of all.

SAMUEL THOMPSON is a son of Samuel and Mary (Baird) Thompson, mention of whom is made in the sketch of Bradway Thompson. He was born in 1809 in Washington Township. He secured the best education the times afforded, and studied some of the higher branches, such as surveying and chemistry. Until twenty-three years of age he lived with his parents. He was married, in 1832, to Opah Ann McCord, born in Kentucky in 1812. They settled on their woodland farm, fifty acres of which the father cleared. He endured many hardships and privations in order to make a comfortable home for his family. To them were born these children: Tirza J., Hannah B., William H., MaryE., Louisa, Dorcas A., Henry M., Margaret, Samuel and Isador. William, after attending the Nashville Medical College and practicing about four years, died ; Tirza, Hannah, Louisa and Dorcas have been teachers. Henry M. enlisted in the late war in Company H, Fifty-first Indiana Infantry, and after eighteen months' service sickened and died at Murfreesboro, Tenn. The family are members of the Presbyterian Church. In 187 2 the wife died, and since that time Mr. Thompson has resided with his son Samuel, who owns the home farm. He is a Kepublican and has filled several offices, such as township trustee, assessor and magistrate. He cast his first presidential vote for Jackson.

BEADWAY THOMPSON is a son of Samuel and Mary (Baird) Thompson, who were born in New Jersey and Kentucky, in 1766 and 1778, respectively. They were married in the "Bluegrass State,1' and came to Indiana in 1802. The father was a brick-maker, and made the brick for the house in Vincennes known as the Harrison House. He contracted with Gov. Harrison for 400 acres of land, paying for it with 200,000 brick. In 1804 he located on his farm, and cleared about 100 acres. In their family were eleven children. The mother died in 1820, and the father married Laura Boberts, by whom he had one child. He died in 1849. Bradway was born in 1813, in AYashington Township. He was educated in the old log schoolhouse, and when his father became too old to work, he and his brother farmed the home place jointly, until 1839, when Bradway married Eliza J. Kichey, born in Palmyra Township in 1822. They then settled on the home farm, and cared for his father during the rest of his life. He received 100 acres of land from his father, and purchased out the heirs for another hundred He now owns 229 acres of land, 160 acres being under cultivation. . Mr. and Mrs. Thompson became the parents of fifteen children: Thomas B., Cynthia A., William, Charles K., David E., Samuel, Mary E., William B., Eliza J., Nathaniel B., John L., Arthur H., James W., Edwin V. and Henry C. Charles, David and Cynthia have taught school for some time. Thomas and David were in the army. Thomas served three years in Company G, Fourteenth Indiana Infantry, and was wounded at Antietam. He then joined a company of Kentucky cavalry, and served until the close of the war. David served eighteen months in Company A, One Hundred and Eighteenth Indiana Volunteer Infantry. Parents and nine children are members of the Presbyterian Church, of which Mr. Thompson has been elder about twenty years. He is a Eepublican, and was magistrate four years.

MOSES THEELKELD is a son of James and Sallie (Handly) Threlkeld, and was born in Knox County, Ind., in 1813. He was reared on a farm, and secured his education in the old subscription schools. At the age of twenty-four he was married to Malinda Johnson, born in 1814. She is a daughter of Samuel and Mary (Martin) Johnson, and was married in 1837. To them were born ten children: Samuel H, James J., Sarah J., Maurice T., William M., Mary A., Moses H., Nancy, Thomas B. and an infant, deceased. Both husband and wife and four children were members of the Christian Church. After marriage they located on a farm, where the wife and children still live. He received eighty acres from his father, and his wife owned 200 acres. They increased the farm to over 800 acres. He was a man who took great interest in the advancement and welfare of his community, and for a number of years previous to his death was a deacon in the church. He died in 1878, leaving his family well provided for. Moses H. and Thomas B. worked the home farm until 1883, when the latter married and left Moses in charge. The mother is still living, surrounded by her children and many friends.

(Johnson) Threlkeld, who were natives of Indiana and Kentucky, and born in 1812 and 1814, respectively. When a girl the mother came to this county, and here they were married. Soon after they settled in Washington Township, where they have lived to the present time. The father was an industrious farmer, and owned at the time of his death some 1,000 acres of land. Both husband and wife were members of the Christian Church. When a young man the father was a Democrat, but on reaching maturer years he became a Republican. His death occurred in 1878. The mother still lives at the ripe old age of seventy-one. James' ancestors, on his father's side, were Scotch-Irish; on his mother's, Irish. Our subject was born in 1840 in Washington Township. In boyhood he had the advantages of the common schools, and afterward attended school in Bruceville. In 1861, when war 1 sounded its wild alarm, James shouldered his musket and went to battle. In Company E of the Fifty-first Indiana Infantry, he volunteered to sacrifice his life for the Union. Though a lifelong cripple he was accepted, and after the battle of Stone River he was transferred to the Invalid Corps. After three years of faithful service he returned home, bearing an honorable discharge. After his return he began farming. In 1866 he was married to Eliza Post, born in Russellville, 111., in 1842. She is the daughter of Peter and Mary (Lemon) Post. To Mr. and Mrs. Threlkeld eight children were born: Laura R., Mary, Elmer, John, James, Harlin. Morton, and Charles. Laura is one of the teachers of Vigo Township. Both husband and wife were members of the Christian Church. Mr. Threlkeld is a stanch Republican, and cast his first vote for Lincoln. In 1869 his father gave him 200 acres of land. Since, by hard work and good management, he has increased it to 360 acres, of which some 250 are under cultivation, with good buildings.

WILLIAM M. THRELKELD, a farmer of Knox County, Ind., was born in said county in 1847, son of Moses and Malinda (Johnson) Threlkeld. In boyhood he had very poor chances for schooling on account of the shortness of the schools and the demand for his services at home. He was reared and aided his father on the farm until thirty years of age, when he was married, in 1878, to Miss Alice Robinson, born in 1854, in Washing- ton Township, and daughter of John and Sallie (Young) Robinson, who were born in Knox County in 1829 and 1823, respectively. Mrs. Robinson had been previously married to Henry Frederick, by whom she had two children. To her second marriage six children were born, Mrs. Threlkeld being the second. The father died in 1876. Soon after marriage Mr. Threlkeld settled in Busseron Township, where he lived about three years, then moved on his present farm. He and wife became the parents of four children, viz.: Elsie M., Thomas P. and two infants (deceased). The wife is a member of the Christian Church, and he is a Republican and cast his first vote for Grant. He has been fairly successful as a farmer. He received seventy acres from his father and has increased it to 210 acres.

ROBERT G. WATT, the senior member of the firm of Watt, Mayfield & Hill, tile manufacturers, is a son of Hugh and Mar- " garet (Murray) Watt. The father was born in 1806, in Erie County, Penn. The mother is a native of Belfast, Ireland, and was born in 1836. Both are of Scotch-Irish descent. She came with her parents to Boston in 1847, and after a residence of some three years moved to Green County, Ohio, whither Mr. Watt came in 1816. In 1854 they were married, and ten years later moved to Gibson County, where they settled permanently. By trade the father was a bricklayer and stone-mason, which he followed till a short time before his marriage, afterward devoting his time and energy to agricultural pursuits. In addition to farming he held office a number of terms, being township trustee and county commissioner. Both he and his wife belonged to the United Presbyterian Church. As to political views, he was a warm supporter of Republican principles, as also are his sons. Having farmed it till 1869, they moved to Oakland City, where they opened a boarding-house. In 1880 the father died. The mother still lives. She reared a family of six children, four of whom have followed the profession of teaching. Subject was born in 1855, in Green County, Ohio. In boyhood he had good advantages for education, having attended the Oakland School. He thus prepared himself to take a collegiate course, but on account of the death of his father the project was abandoned. In 1876 he began teaching, which calling he has followed nearly five years during the winters. In summers he works at the brick and tile business. In addition to that he works at the bricklayer's trade, having served three years as an apprentice. In 1883 he was married to Hannah Heithecker, born 1859, in Knox County. She is the daughter of Henry arid Hannah (Wagner) Heithecker. Both parents were natives of Germany; having come to this country they settled in Knox County, where they have lived ever since. Mr. Watts is a member of the United Presbyterian Church, and his wife of the Evangelical Reformed. As a business man, as well as a teacher, he has met with good success, enjoying a large share of the respect and confidence of the entire community.

WILLIAM WILLIS, one of the leading merchants of Bruceville, is a son of Clark and Nancy J. (Simpson) Willis. The father was born in Smith County, Va., in 1810, and the mother in Knox County, in 1816. When only two years old he was brought to Knox County, Ind., where he grew to manhood. In 1834 he was married and settled on a farm, where he remained until about 1837, when he formed a partnership with Hugh Barr, with whom he carried on a general merchandise store for about twenty years. They then dissolved partnership, and the father conducted the business by himself. In 1858 he built the spacious room where his son now carries on business. At the breaking out of the* war he raised a company, and as its captain served for some time and was promoted to the rank of major. On account of ill health he returned home and began farming. He died in L873 and the mother two years later. Our subject was born in Knox County in 1842. He received a common school education, and at the age of eighteen enlisted in Company H, Eighty-first Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He participated in the battle of Stone River, and in 1863 was taken prisoner at Rome, Ga., and for twelve months endured the privations of Libby Prison. His father, hearing of his capture, went to the congressman of his district and asked him to assist in the exchange of his son, but was told he was powerless. He then asked for an interview with Lincoln, and it being granted him he urged his assistance, but the President told him all was being done that could be done. Mr. Willis then asked for a recommendation to the commissioner of exchange. The President being touched with the father's anxiety, wrote the following: "Gen. Hitchcock, hear this case; I say hear this case." Armed with this Mr. "Willis presented himself to the General, and the result was the son's return in a few weeks, with the rank of first lieutenant. He farmed until 1877, when he commenced merchandising with his brother at his father's old stand. In 1881 the brother sold out to W. V. Barr. In 1866 Mr. Willis married Sarah A. Dillon, born in Daviess County in 1854. To them were born these children: Herbert, Mattie G., Orlando, Eoscoe P., Edith and Lewis W. Both husband and wife are members of the Baptist Church. Mr. Willis is a Republican, and cast his first vote for Lincoln. He was postmaster of the town for four years, and is a prominent man and valuable citizen.

CLAEK WILLIS, a farmer of Washington Township, Knox Co., Ind., is a son of Clark and Nancy (Simpson) Willis. In boyhood he had good opportunities for education, and having completed the common school course he finished his education at Lebanon, Ohio. After his return he taught school one term, but was unable to carry on this work and farming too, so he gave up the former and turned his entire attention to agricultural pursuits. In 1876 he was married to Eliza Fox, born in Knox County in 1852. She is a daughter of Daniel and Almyra (Ball) Fox, and for some six years previous to her marriage was a schoolteacher, giving the best of satisfaction. To Mr. and Mrs. Willis these children were born: Myra E., Maurice O, Paul and Albert N. Soon after marriage they settled on the farm of 100 acres, where they now live. Both husband and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church. As a farmer he has been very successful, and is much respected by all. In politics he is a warm Republican and cast his first vote for R. B. Hayes.

THOMAS J. YOUNG was born in 1827, and is of German- Welsh extraction. He attended school but very little in boyhood, and at the age of twenty began to battle his own way in the world. He worked by the month for a short time, and was married, in 1848, to Matilda J., daughter of Thomas W. and Margaret (McLaughry) Paddock, who was born in New York and married in 1805. The mother died in 1830. Mr. Young was a renter for a number of years after his marriage, and then bought out the heirs to his father-in-law's farm of 200 acres, now increased to 350 acres. Mr. and Mrs. Young are the parents of these children, viz.: Cyrus, Marshal, JohnH., Bayard T., Thomas E., Mary A. and Oliver M., who is attending the Indiana State University. Husband and wife are members of the Baptist Church, and Mr. Young is a warm Bepublican, and cast his first presidential vote for Taylor. His parents, Thomas and Lucy (Barbee) Young, were born in the " Blue-grass State " in 1783 and 1790, respectively. They were reared and married m that State, and in 1817 removed to Illinois, where the father followed the life of a farmer. After joining the Baptist Church he began ministerial work, and devoted the most of his time to that calling. He was a man of ability and wide influence. His death occurred about 1847, and the mother's in 1846.

HENRY BARTLEY is one of Busseron Township's most prominent farmers. He is the seventh of ten children and was born in Illinois, October 4, 1824, son of Kobert and Elizabeth (Latlove) Bartley, who were natives of the " Empire" and " Keystone" States, respectively. They came to Knox County, Ind., during the very early settlement and died when Henry was quite young. Only four of the family are now living. Our subject's educational advantages were limited. He was reared among relatives and friends and endured many hardships. When about fifteen years of age he began working for himself by the month. When twenty-two years of age he began farming on Shaker Prairie and a few years later married and settled where he now lives. He has developed his farm from a dense woodland to well-cultivated fields, and now owns over 500 acres of very fertile land. His residence is a nice two-story frame building and his barns and granaries are spacious and convenient. January 12, 1851, he married Margaret Polk, a native of this county, born April 19, 1830: To them were born thirteen children, three of whom died in infancy, and ten now living: Sylvester, Leander, Helen (wife of Crawford Dunkerly), Irene (wife of Kolen Yerkes), Eugene, Harriet, Margaret, Elizabeth, Nellie and Mamie. Mrs. Bartley is a member of the Christian Church. Mr. Bartley is honest and industrious and is one of the highly respected men of the county. He is a Republican.

LEANDER BARTLEY is the second of a family of thirteen children of Henry and Margaret (Polk) Bartley (see sketch of Henry Bartley). He was born in Knox County, Ind., Novvember 5, 1853, and. was reared on a farm, securing a common school education. He made his parent's house his home until nearly twenty-two years of age, when he went to Kansas and farmed about five years. He then returned to " Hoosierdom," married and located on the farm where he now resides. He has succeeded well and owns ninety acres of very fertile and wellcultivated land in Shaker Prairie. February 26, 1884, he led to Hymens altar, Miss Nettie Hollingsworth, born October 20, 1854, daughter of William P. and Louisa (Stevenson) Hollingsworth, both natives of this county and living in Widner Township. Mrs. Bartley is a member of the Christian Church. He is and always has been a Republican, and is an energetic and honest young farmer.

SYDNEY G. BLANN, a wealthy farmer of Busseron Township, Knox Co., Ind., was born in Sullivan County, Ind.. March. 31, 1833, and is the fourth of a family of eleven children of Allen S. and Hettie (Hardin) Blann, who were born in the " Blue-grass State " in 1802 and 1809, respectively. They were married in their native State, and came to Indiana about 1832, settling in Sullivan County. The mother died in 1863. The father is yet residing in the township and is a feeble old man. He Las been a member of the Christian Church for many years, and is one of the highly respected old pioneers of the county. He was township trustee one term. Sydney G. was reared mostly in Knox County, on a farm, securing a very limited education. At the age of twenty-two he began farming for himself on the place where he now lives, and at the present time is the owner of over 1,100 acres of very fine land. His residence is a frame building in a very fine location. November 3, 1863, he was married to

Sarah S. Sproatt, daughter of John Sproatt, Jr., one of the early settlers of the county. The wife was born January 13, 1836, and has borne seven children, one of whom died at the age of twelve years. Their names are Edward P., born August 3, 1864; John A., born October 13, 1865, and died April 13, 1878: Frances M., born September 17, 1867; Mary O., born September 11, 1869; William W., born September 30, 1871; Herbert U., born October 12, 1873; Charlie E., born January 26, 1877. The husband and wife and one child, Frances M., belong to the Christian Church. Mr. Blann has always been a very firm and uncompromising Democrat. He has never aspired to a public office but is recognized as one of the very prominent and moral citizens of tbe county.

WILLIAM H. BLANN was the seventh of a family of eleven children of Allen S. and Hettie (Harden) Blann, (elsewhere written) and was born in Knox County, Ind., on Shaker Prairie, September 3, 1842. He received a limited education, owing to the poor facilities of the day, and was reared on a farm. On attaining his majority he began working for himself as a farm hand, and soon after began farming for himself on his present farm. He has followed agricultural pursuits all his life, and has been quite successful, now owning 125 acres of very fine land. His farm is well improved and has a fine two-story frame residence. He was married, October 17, 1872, to Miss Jennie Sullenger, born in Knox County February 14, 1850. Her parents were among the pioneer settlers of Busseron Township. Four children have blessed their union: Curtis, born July 16, 1873; Samuel, born August 17, 1875; Johnnie, born June 26, 1878, and died April 8, 1879, and Delia P., born September 17, 1882. Both Mr. and Mrs. Blann are members of the Christian Church. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and in politics is a Democrat, and one of the prosperous and respected farmers of the township.

BEN L. BLANN was born August 5, 1853, and is the youngest of eleven children of Allen S. and Hettie (Hardin) Blann. He was reared on Shaker Prairie on a farm, and secured a limited early education. He lived with his parents until eighteen years of age and then worked about in different capacities, and farmed two years for himself before he married. He has continued as a tiller of the soil since that time, settling on the farm where he now resides in 1879. He owns sixty-eight acres of exceptionally good land. January 18, 1874, he took for his life companion Martha Ellen Calvert, a native of the county, born July 4, 1853. To tliem were born these three children: Claude C, born August 18, 1875; Winfield S., born June 25, 1880, and Everett H, born April 5, 1884, and two other children who died in infancy. Mr. Blann is a stanch member of the Democratic party, and belongs to the I. O. O. F. He is a good citizen, energetic and honest.

GEORGE BOND was born in Shenandoah County, Va., March 25, 1816, and is the second of twelve children of Joseph and Mary (Ashelman) Bond. When twenty-one years of age he left his native State and came to Knox County, Ind., with his parents, worked as a farm hand for about nine months and then began farming on his own responsibility, and has ever since continued. In 1855 he and George H. Bond erected a frame, buhr-process flouring-mill, which they operated about five years, when it caught fire and was consumed. A year later the present brick mill was erected by Mr. Bond, George H. Bond and another gentleman, at a cost of $20,000, with a capacity of 100 barrels per day. In five years' time the junior members of the firm retired from that business and the mill is now operated by our subject. He was for some time engaged in the merchandise business with his brother, Adam Bond. He has been a very successful business man, and was at one time very wealthy, but lately has met with some financial reverses. In 1845 he was married to Sarah Robertson, a native of the county, who died about 1857, leaving three children, two now living: Joseph A. and Dora (wife of N. F. Concle, a merchant of Topeka, Kas.). Mr. Bond took for his second wife Emma Watson, of Sullivan County, Ind. To them five children were born, three now living: Rush L., Charles L. and Nora E., all at home. Mr. Bond is a member of the Christian Church, and his wife and daughter of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a worthy citizen of the county, is a Republican and a firm believer in prohibition.

Oaktown, was the ninth in a family of ten children born to Joseph and Mary (Ashelman) Bond, both of whom were natives of Virginia. They both died when the subject of this sketch was very young, and he was reared to the age of manhood by his brother, Adam Bond. He secured a limited education. He began farming for himself after leaving his brother, and continued successfully eight years. He then entered upon mercantile business, and has ever since been a successful merchant, carrying a full line of general merchandise, and controling the leading trade of the place. He transacts a business of probably $20,000 per year, and carries a rstock of at least $8,000. He also owns 225 acres of land, and successfully manages it as a farm, which is under good improvement. His residence is in town, and is a large two-story frame building. Mr. Bond was married October 8, 1868, to Sallie E. Bratton, a native of Green County, Ohio. Politically he is a Democrat, and he is one of the prominent men of the county. He is a moral and upright man, and is highly respected by the entire community.

JOSEPH BOND may be mentioned as one of the prominent farmers of Busseron Township. He was born in Shenandoah County, Va., March 30, 1830, and is the eldest of seven children born to Samuel and Eliza (Orndorff ) Bond, both born and reared in the same county as our subject. They came to Knox County in 1834 and lived and died here. The father was born in 1811 and was three times married; the second time to Sarah McClure, in 1857, and the third time to Sarah J. Walker, in 1871. He was a farmer and died January 18, 1877. Our subject was seven years old when he came to this county. His boyhood days were spent on the farm and in attending to district schools. He remained with his parents until twenty-four years of age, when he began farming for himself and has ever since continued. He has been a very prosperous farmer of the county, and owns 591 acres of the very finest land of Shaker Prairie. He has a large two-story residence and convenient surroundings. October 12, 1854, he was married to Sarah J. Latshaw, a daughter of Kobert Latshaw, one of the early settlers of the county. She was born December 19, 1831, in Sullivan County, Ind. Their marriage was blessed with seven children, two of whom died in infancy, and five are yet living: Kobert F., born December 13, 1855; Samuel, born February 11, 1857, and died July 26, 1864; William H., born February 8, 1859; Eliza, born July 13, 1861, and died September 14, 1862; Martha L., born March 21, 1863; Dora E.,born December 11, 1865, and Franklin T., born December 31, 1869. All the family but the youngest are members of the Christian Church. Mr. Bond is a Republican in politics, and is much respected and esteemed.

WILLIAM BOND, a leading citizen of Busseron Township, is the second of a family of seven children, and was born March 2, 1832, in Virginia. He came with his parents, Samuel and Eliza (Orndorff ) Bond, to Indiana when quite young, and spent his boyhood days on a farm and attending the common schools, where he secured an ordinary education. He resided under the paternal roof until twenty-two years of age, when he married, and has since followed the free and independent life of a farmer. He has met with flattering success in his undertakings and is now the owner of 450 acres of fertile land, well improved, with a good two-story frame residence. He deals extensively in live-stock, especially mules and horses. He is considered an excellent neighbor and farmer, and is a Republican in politics. November 20, 1853, he was married to Hester A. Summers, a native of the county, born October 1, 1835. To this union ten children were born, eight of whom are living: Samuel A., born March 1; 1855; Mary E., born June 19, 1857; Caleb H., bom June 2. 1859; Leander H., born January 26, 1863; Edwin G., born March 16, 1865, and died September 8, 1869; Jesse T., born April 7, 1867; William W., bom August 4, 1869, and died September 4, 1870; Murray W., born August 15, 1871, and Hester J. and Lester J. (twins), born November 20, 1873. Mr. Bond, wife, and all but three children are members of the Christian Church. Mrs. Bond's mother resides with her, and is over eighty-four years old.

ROBERT F. BOND is the eldest of a family of seven children born to Joseph and Sarah J. (Latshaw) Bond. He was born and reared on the farm where his father now lives, and was educated in the graded schools of the county. He resided with his parents until twenty-four years of age, when he married and located on his present farm. He has succeeded quite well, and now owns 120 acres in one tract and twenty-five acres in another. His home farm is well improved with a fine frame residence, commanding an extensive view of Shaker Prairie. He was married, November 2, 1879, to Mildred B. Asher, a native of Illinois. They had two children, viz. : Charles M., born July 20, 1880, and Effie E., born September 20, 1883. Mrs. Bond died November 17, 1883, and March 5, 1885, he was married to his present wife, Mollie Stamer, a native of Knox County, born December 21, 1858. Both are members of the Christian Church. Mr. Bond is a strong Bepublican, and is an energetic and prosperous young farmer.

WILLIAM G. BOWEN, farmer, was born on Shaker Prairie, Knox Co., Ind., March 8, 1852, and is one of nine children of William B. and Matilda (Sprinkle) Bowen. The father was born in Knoxville, Tenn., February 5, 1815, and the mother in Wytherville, Ya., July 3, 1819. They were married in the mother's native State December 28, 1837. The father died August 13. 1866, and the mother November 15, 1865. Our subject lived on the home farm with an elder brother for a few years, and then went to Vincennes, where he attended school three years. After his return to the farm he worked until grown up, when he married and lived on the home farm for some time, and in 1879 moved to the farm where he now resides. He has succeeded quite well in his business ventures, and now owns sixty-five acres of well-improved land. July 15, 1875, he led to the hymenial altar Miss Florence J. Pugh, daughter of Dr. J. W. Pugh, whose sketch appears in this work. She was born January 24, 1855, and has borne her husband four children, three now living, viz.: Walter, born July 5, 1876, and died September 15, 1877; William H, born June 27, 1878; Margaret, born December 14, 1881, and Freddie, born July 2, 1884. Mr. Bowen is a Democrat in politics, and is respected as a moral and upright young farmer.

WILLIAM W. CULLQP, farmer, of Busseron Township, was born March 4, 1829, in Virginia. He was the third of eight children of Peter and Elizabeth (Fox) Cullop. The parents were born in Smith County, Va., in 1800 and 1802, respectively. After having a family of eight children they came to Knox Coun- ty, Ind., where they spent the remainder of their days. The father died in 1863, and the mother March 25, 1885. Our subject was reared to manhood on an Indiana farm, and secured a somewhat limited education. At the age of twenty-one he began working for himself, and two years later married and settled on his present farm. He owns 240 acres of land, and gave eighty acres to his son. His farm is well improved with a good frame residence. March 11, 1852, he married Jane M. Patterson, a native of Knox County, Ind., born May 29, 1834. Nine children were born to them, six of whom are living: William A., Thomas E., Mary E., Samuel, Fannie, Henry, Ella, James E. and Dolly. Mrs. Cullop died Jane 25, 1874. She was an earnest Christian worker in the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Cullop is a member of the I. O. O. F. and a Democrat in politics. His birth was on the first day of Andrew Jackson's administration, and he claims an uncompromising membership with that party. He was trustee of Busseron Township six and a half years, and filled the office acceptably and well.

CHAELES E. DKUMMOND, proprietor of the Drummond Hotel, at Oaktown, Ind., was born April 1, 1843, in Illinois, being the second of six children of Charles E. and Catharine (Tarwater ) Drummond. The father was born in Maine in 1815, where he remained until 1830, when he came to Knox County, Ind., and learned the blacksmith's trade. He then married and went to St. Louis, Mo. The mother was born near Knoxville, Tenn., in 1810, and came to Terre Haute, Ind., when a girl, thence to this county, where she married. They resided about five years in St. Louis and then returned to Indiana, where the father followed blacksmithing all his life. He died February 24, 1879. The mother died January 17, 1862. Charles F. was reared in Busseron Township, and his schooling was confined to the log schoolhouse of early days. At the age of eighteen he began working for himself, and August 17, 1862, he enlisted in Com] >any K, Fifty-first Indiana Volunteers, and was in the service nearly nine months. He received a wound in the foot which yet disables him, and for which he was discharged at Murfreesboro, Tenn., April 6, 1863. He cultivated the soil for several years after his return, and then sold out and removed to Bicknell.

where he kejDt a hotel two years. He then came to Oaktown and worked with his father until 1873, when he removed to and resided in French Lick Springs in Orange County for one year. He then returned to Oaktown, and after a residence of eight years moved to Shoals, Ind., but returned to Oaktown in 1884 and has since kept hotel and has been quite successful. He has accomodations for fifteen or twenty persons, and receives the trade of the traveling public. He keeps a first-class house, and in connection with that works at the carpenter's trade to some extent. He was married, November 2, 1861, to Nancy Keith, a native of Tennesee. She died June 21, 1871, having borne three children, two living: Robert S. and William P. Robert is a telegraph operator and William is a farmer. Mr. Drummond was married to Lizzie Wilson May 17, 1871. They have two children: James E. and Lillie B. Both Mr. and Mrs. Drummond are members of the Christian Church, and he is a Democrat in politics.

CHARLES L. HAUGHTON, a prominent merchant of Oaktown, Knox Co., Ind., was born November 11, 1818, in Cambria, Niagara Co., N. Y., being the youngest of a family of six children of Hiram and Elizabeth (Potter) Haughton, both natives of Courtland County, N. Y. The father was born in 1800, was a farmer, and lived and died in New York, his death occurring in 1862. The mother died in 1860, May 6, at the age of fifty-seven years. Our subject was reared to manhood in his native State, living on a farm till his father's death, when he entered a New York collegiate institute, and seciired in all a fair business education. For some time he was unsettled, and worked about in different avocations. In 1868 he came West, and was in Minnesota, Iowa and other States. He engaged as a clerk for his brother at Oaktown in 1872, in which capacity he continued a time and then took an interest with his brother in general merchandising, and later established his present business in connection with a partner, who retired and left Mr. Haughton in the business, in which he has continued ever since very successfully, carrying a complete line of general merchandise, and also dealing in grain. In 1877 Mr. Haughton was united in marriage to Emma C. Pugh, daughter of Dr. John W. Pugh, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this volume. Four children have blessed this union, two of whom have died and two are yet living : Daisy H. and Mary. He is a member of I. O. O. F, and F. and A. M. fraternities, being Past Grand in the former and Worshipful Master in the latter. Politically he has always been a zealous Democrat. He is one of the prominent young business men of the county, and is highly respected as an honorable and upright citizen of his town and Knox County.

BAENET LATSHAW, a well-to-do farmer of Busseron Township, is a son of Joseph and Sarah (Porter) Latshaw, and was born May 26, 1820, in Sullivan County, Ind. His parents were born, reared and married in Pennsylvania, and moved to Ohio, where they lived several years; thence to Vincennes, Ind., and there settled in Sullivan County, but returned to Knox County in 1835 and located on the farm where our subject now lives. The father was associate judge of the circuit court in Sullivan County, and represented said county in the State Assembly in 1834. He died September 11, 1845. The mother died in 1863. Our subject received such education as could be obtained in his day. At the age of twenty-five he began tilling the soil on his own responsibility, and has followed that calling ever since, being one of the most successfid farmers of the county. He owns over 500 acres of excellent land, about 300 acres being under cultivation. In 1874 he was married to Eliza (Martin) Latshaw, widow of James Latshaw. All her children by her first husband are dead. Her marriage with our subject has been blessed with five children, all living, viz. : Albert S., Sallie, William B., Hattie H. and Olga. Mrs. Latshaw is a member of the Christian Church. Politically he has always been a Democrat, and is one of the substantial farmers of Knox County.

JAMES S. MARTIN was born near where he now lives, September 5, 1846. He is a son of William D. and Bachel (Threlkeld) Martin, and is the fourth of their five children. The father was born in Kentucky, in 1811, but was reared in Sullivan County, Ind. He was a well-to-do farmer, and in politics was a Whig, then a Republican. He died January 17, 1873. The mother was born in Knox County, Ind., in 1818, and died when our subject was about two years old. Her husband married again, and became the father of five children. James S. secured a common school education in boyhood, and afterward attended a commercial college in Vincennes. December 24, 1874, he was married to Cassander McClure, and located on the farm of 120 acres where he now lives. His land is very rich and well improved, on which is erected a handsome two-story frame residence. Mrs. Martin was born February *21, 1S55, and became the mother of two children: Walter M., "born June 29, 1876, and died July 22, 1876, and William Wayne, born November 11, 1879. The wife is a member of the Christian Church. Mr. Martin is a very firm Eepublican, and was postmaster of Oaktown about four years. He is a wideawake farmer, and is doing well financially.

HIEAM H. McCLUEE, deceased, a prominent farmer, and native of Knox County, Ind., was born Sept. 6, 1824, and was the youngest of eleven children of Samuel and Jane (Curry) McClure, natives of Kentucky, born June 1, 1784, and August 25, 1783, respectively. They were married in 1805, and came to Indiana a few years later. They were among the early pioneers, and lived in a fort to protect themselves from the Indians. The father was in the war of 1812, in the battle of Tippecanoe. He died November 17, 1851, and the mother June 22, 1839. Hiram H. was reared on the home farm, where he lived and died. At the age of twenty-one he married, and began his career as a tiller of the soil. He was quite prosperous and owned about 200 acres of very fine land, well improved with a good brick residence. He was married. May 7, 1845, to Eosella Seaney, bom in Illinois, October 28, 1828. They became the parents of nine children, all but one now living : Sarah J., born October 29, 1846; Mary E., born October 2, 1848, and died April 23, 1863; Samuel B., born June 22, 1850; Albeit B., born November 19,1852; Henrietta P., born June 16, 1855: Margaret A., born August 6, 1858; Flora A., born March lti. 1861; Edgar M., born August 29,1867, and Jasper F., born April 14, 1871. Mr. McClure was a zealous member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and his wife and their children were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was a very strong Bepiiblican, and was trustee several terms. He was very just and honest in his business transactions, and was much respected and esteemed by all who knew him. He was a member of the I. O. O. F., and his death, which occurred November 20, 1876, was a great loss to the community. The mother still resides on the old homestead. Samuel B. McClure is the third child of Hi ram McClure, and was born near where he now resides, June 22, 1850. He received a fair business education, and attended the commercial college at Terre Haute, Ind., three months. He made his parents' house his home until about twenty-five years of age, when he married and located on his present farm, where he has followed agricultural pursuits very successfully. He owns seventy-five acres of very fertile land, well improved, with a good two-story frame residence in a pleasant location. He has a haycellar, made of pressed hay and cemented, which is very convenient, and the only one in the county. February 21, 1878, he was married to Fannie Shepard, daughter of James M. Shepard, whose sketch appears in this work. One child was born to them January 23, 1880, which died November 3, 1881. Both Inisband and wife are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Mr. McClure is a member of the I. O. O. F., and has always given his aid and support to the Bepublican party.

WILLIAM McGOWEN, druggist, of Oaktown, Ind., was the eldest of four children of John and Sarah (Balthus) McGowen. The father was born in Pennsylvania, and when eighteen years old came to Knox County, Ind., locating at Vincennes, where he learned the gunsmith's trade. He established a ferry on the West Fork of White River, in Martin County, but had only lived there four years when he was killed by the Indians May 12, 1812. The paternal grandfather was Scotch by birth, and the mother's father was of German descent. The mother survived the father many years, and married again. She died about 1838. Our immediate subject was born in Knox County September 29, 1805. He Avas reared in the wilderness, and when his father was killed the family returned to Knox County, where he was reared to manhood. He received a very limited early education, and has acquired the most of his education since attaining his majority. He endured many of the privations incident to frontier life. At the age of twenty-three he married, and began farming for himself. In 1858 he began the practice of medicine, and in 1868 he sold his farm and engaged in the drug business and practice of medicine in Oaktown, where he has been rather unsuccessful, as fire destroyed his house and entire stock of drugs, which were unin- sured. He rebuilt, and continued in the drug business. July 31. 1828, he was married to Elizabeth Shannon, of Kentucky, to whom were born ten children, six now living: Sarah (widow of Jonathan Hart), Jemimah A. (wife of John Morris), Mary E. (wife of "William Morris, father of John Morris), Clarissa (widow of George Bensinger), Thomas S. and William C. Mrs. McGowen died March 12, 1866, and January 19, 1868, he married Susan (Johnson) Bowen, to whom were born four children, two now living: AVinnie M. and Charles T. This wife died May 26, 1877, and he married his present wife, Margaret (Hoke) Taylor, February 19, 1878. He has been a member of some church for over sixty years. He is one of the oldest citizens of the county, and none are more highly respected than he. He was a Democrat until 1852, since which time he has been a very ardent Republican. He was one of the original board of trustees of Jefferson Township, Sullivan County. He is thoroughly a self-made man. and is next to the oldest native-born resident of the county.

WILLIAM A. POLK was born in Widner Township, Knox Co., Ind., May 16, 1833, and is one of seven children born to James and Hannah (Shepard) Polk, who were born in Kentucky, and are yet living, in Knox County, Ind. William A. secured a somewhat limited early education, but at the age of twenty-one had sufficient education to enable him to begin teaching. He taught about three terms, and worked on a farm between times. He was agent for the McCormick machines fifteen years, and part of the time was clerk in a store in Oaktown in the winter seasons. In 1861 he and his employer began clerking for other parties, and bought grain for a few years. In the spring of 1865 he purchased an interest with Adam Bond in a general merchandising store, and continued successfully with him for four years. In 1869 he formed a partnership with his present partner, Roland S. Walker, and they carry a full and select stock of general merchandise. They are the undertakers of the town, and conduct their business in two buildings, each 22x60 feet, and a cabinet shop and wareroom besides. Mr. Polk was married in 1858 to Kate Harper, of Knox County. They have two children: Eugene E. and Katie. The wife died in 1876, and in April, 1878, Mr. Polk was married to Martha A. Parker, also a native of the county. They have two children: Theresa and Chauncey. Mr. Polk is one of the first citizens of the county, and is a Republican in politics, and was postmaster of Oaktown for several years. He is quite well off, financially, and owns a pleasant farm besides his town property.

DR. JOHN W. PIJGH was born in Virginia, January 30, 1827, and is one of fourteen children born to M. and E. (Caudy I Pugh. The parents were natives of Virginia, and the father learned the tanner's trade in Washington, D. C. He was married in Virginia, and in 1836 came with his family to Indiana, where he followed the life of a farmer. He died at the age of sixtyeight. Our subject came to Indiana when nine years old. He secured a good early education in Grant County, and when twenty-one years of age began the study of medicine, continuing four years. He then took a course of lectures at the medical college of La Porte, Ind., and then began practicing at New Cumberland, Ind. He graduated in the medical college of Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1867. The next year he located at Oaktown, where he is the leading physician of the place. In 1848 he wedded Margaret McCormick, a native of Delaware County, Ind. Nine children were born to them, three of whom are living: Emma C. (wife of Charles L. Haughton), Florence J. (wife of William G. Bowen) and Sallie, who resides with and keeps house for her father, as the mother died May 15, 1884 He and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is a member of the I. O. O. F. and Masonic fraternities, Knight Templar degree in the Vincennes Commandery. He is a zealous Democrat, politically, and is one of the leading physicians and citizens of the county. He was the first president of the Knox County Medical Society, and is a member of the State and American Medical Associations.

JAMES M. SHEPARD is one of the enterprising and wealthy farmers of Busseron Township, Knox Co., Ind., and was born on the farm where he now resides, June 2, 1830, one of six children of Horace B. and Patsey (Harper) Shepard (elsewhere written). James secured such education as could be obtained in the subscription schools of early times, and has spent his life on the farm. At the age of twenty-one he went to California, and for three years was engaged in gold mining and raising hogs. He returned to the "Hoosier State" in 1854, and settled down to farming, and has ever since continued, very successfully. He owns 325 acres of excellent land on Shaker Prairie, besides having assisted his children to a start in life. He has a handsome frame residence, and is so situated as to enjoy life. December 6, 1855, he was married to Mary Lauderdale, who was born in Knox County, July 21, 1835. Six children have been born to them: Fannie B., born February 9, 1857, now the wife of S. B. McClure; Horace J., born April 17, 1859, married and living near his father; Henry C, born February 22, 1861, married and living in Widner Township; Jennie H., born April 8, 1863, wife of Caleb H. Bond, farmer; Virgil O., born January 13, 1865, and Walter S., born September 21, 1871. The youngest two are yet residing at home. Mrs. Shepard is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and her husband is a member of the I. O. O. F. and F. & A. M. He has been a Republican since the existence of that party, and previous to that time was a Whig. He has been justice of the peace two terms, and is very highly respected and esteemed by his neighbors and friends.

JOHN N. SHEPARD, a prominent farmer of Busseron Township, Knox Co., Ind., was born in said township January 26, 1836, near where he now lives. He was the youngest of seven children of Horace B. and Patsy (Harper) Shepard, who were born and reared in Woodford Township, Ky., and came to Knox County, Ind., during its very early settlement. The father was born in 1799, and followed the life of a farmer until 1861, when he moved to Vincennes and was appointed collector of revenue. He was county treasurer and represented the county in the State Legislature before moving to the city. He is now living a retired life in Vincennes. The mother was born in 1798, and died in 1866, and the father afterward married Mary Ship, of Kentucky. Our subject was reared to manhood on a farm in Busseron Township. What education he has was secured in the old log schoolhouse of .primitive days. He resided with his parents until their removal to Vincennes. He married at the age of twentythree, and has followed farming very successfully to the present time. He owns 400 acres of very fine land, well improved, on which is erected a good two-story frame residence. He has also been engaged in mercantile business in Oaktown at various times, and his son, George H., is now in the hardware business in that town. Mr. Shepard was married, December 3, 1858, to Margaret C. Sproatt, daughter of Benjamin Sproatt. These five children have been born to them: George H., Benjamin H., John F., Edward and Guy L. Mrs. Shepard is a member of the Christian Church, and he belongs to the I. 0. O. F. He belongs to the Democratic party, and takes an active interest in political affairs. He was trustee and justice of the peace of the township, and is one of the enterprising men of Oaktown and Knox County.

JOHN H E. SPKINKLE, a very prominent old farmer of Busseron Township, was born in Wythe County, Va., in 1822, and was one of a family of four children born to Henry and Elizabeth (Ernst) Sprinkle. His father was born near Hagerstown, Washington Co., Md., in 1757. In 1807 he married Elizabeth Ernst, and engaged in the ^hatter's trade at Wytheville, Va., a knowledge of which trade he obtained from his wife, whose father was a hatter. Henry Sprinkle was the owner of an extensive plantation and a large number of slaves, who were very dutiful, and who often requested him never to sell them. He lived to the ripe old age of ninety-four, dying in 1851, his wife having preceded him to her long home in 1836. The immediate subject of this sketch was born in Virginia, and lived there until he arrived at the age of twenty-three, when he removed to Knox County, settling on the farm where he now resides, the property having been previously purchased by his father from the Shakers in 1835. He has ever since continued farming very successfully, and now owns 750 acres of the finest land on Sbaker Prairie, wbich is under the best improvement. His residence is a commodious two-story brick building, in a most excellent location, surrounded by both natural and artificial beauties, and commanding an extensive view of Shaker Prairie. On this farm stands the oldest and largest pear tree in the State, set out by the Shakers and still bearing fruit. Mr. Sprinkle also has an old-fashioned eight-day clock, which has been running for ninety-six years. It is a fine specimen of skilled mechanism, and is said to contain in its case over 3,000 pieces of wood. Besides the time of day, it records the day of the month and the changes of the moon. Mr. Sprinkle was married, December 4, 1845, to Rhoda La Hue, who was born in Wythe County, Va., about 1827. By her he had two children: Henry B. and Mary M. L. She died May 9, 1849, of cholera, while en route to her old home in Virginia. Mr. Sprinkle was married the second time, January 1, 1851, to Barbara Brouillette, a daughter of Capt. Pierre Brouillette, a prominent early French settler and a warm admirer of Gen. Harrison. She was born in 1821, at Vincennes. The result of this marriage was six children, four of whom are living: Wythe P. B., Welcome B., John E. R. and Jefferson M. All the children are still at the old homestead except Welcome B., who is practicing medicine at Irving, 111. Since locating in this county Mr. Sprinkle has been engaged mainly in farming, though he has been engaged in merchandising and distilling a short time. Politically he has always been a Democrat, casting his first vote for James K. Polk for President. Under the administration of President Buchanan he had an appointment in the United States Land Office. He was an efficient member of the board of county commissioners in 1863, and in many other ways he has been a faithful public servant, and by his neighbors is held in the highest esteem. As a member of the I. O. 0. F. he was instrumental in procuring the establish ment of a lodge at Oaktown. He was one of the commissioners appointed to effect a compromise between the county and the holders of the Ohio & Mississippi Railroad bonds. He was disbursing agent under President Buchanan, and was also United States Marshal, appointed by the governor for collecting the official vote for President Lincoln and Vice-President Wilson. His children are as follows: H. Bowen, the eldest by first marriage, was born October 7, 1846, in this county. He was reared on the farm, and had the educational advantages supplied by the common school, and afterward he attended school at Vincennes. At the age of sixteen he was apprenticed to the harness trade for three years. He then returned to the farm, and has ever since lived with his father. He has never married. Mary M. L. was born January 27, 1849, also in this county. She was but little over three months old when her mother died, and was brought up by her grandmother, La Hue, in

Virginia, where she remained until the close of the war, when she came to her father in Indiana, where she has lived ever since. She was educated at St. Rose Academy, Vincennes. By the second marriage have been born the following children: Wythe B. P., the eldest, was born November 11, 1851, in Vincennes. He was raised on the farm and obtained a fair education. . He served a three-years' apprenticeship at the harness trade, and followed his trade about eight years, when he returned to the farm. He now has complete charge of the home farm, and himself owns forty acres, and lives with his father. He was married, September 16, 1874, to Mary Anne Madigan, a lady of Irish descent, by whom be has one daughter, Estella B., born July 10, 1875, and now in Vincennes, attending school. His wife died October 3, 1879. Welcome B., the second child by the second marriage, was born at Carlisle, Sullivan Co., Ind., January 26, 1853, was brought up on the farm, and served three years at the harness trade. He studied medicine under Dr. J. W. Pugh at Oaktown, graduated at Louisville Medical College, and located at Palmyra, 111., where he remained two years, when he removed to Irving, 111., where he is now living, practicing medicine and running a chug store. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was married, November 18, 1880, to Ida Allman, daughter of B. J. Allman, a prominent physician of Palmyra. John B. B. was born October 13, 1857, where he now lives. He was brought up on the farm and in Vincennes, where he attended school, and was also at St. Mary's Institute, Dayton, Ohio, and at the Cecilian College of Kentucky. He then remained with his parents until his marriage, when he established a drug store at Irving, 111., and ran it four years. He then conducted a drug store at Oaktown one year, when he was burned out, and then commenced farming where he now lives and owns fortythree acres of land. He was married, October 17, 1877, to Sallie A. Tewalt, a native of Sullivan County, Ind. They have two children: Okie A. T., born July 24, 1879, and Cokie A. T. W., born May 7, 1885. Both himself and wife are members of the Christian Church. Julia M. was born October 13, 1858, and died in July, 1862. J. Monticello was born March 2, 1861, on the present farm. He was educated at Dayton, Ohio. He stud- ied dentistry at Vincennes, under Dr. T. B. Girard, and graduated at the New York College of Dentistry. He located at Carlisle, and enjoyed a successful practice. B. Powhattan P. was born October 7, 1866, and died at the age of thirteen months. All the sons but H. Bowen are' members of the I. 0. O. F.

BENJAMIN SPEOATT, a very prominent old farmer of Busseron Township, was born November 5, 1813, at New Albany, hid. He was the sixth of a family of nine children born to John and Keziah (Sikes) Sproatt. The father was born in England, where he was raised until arriving at the age of sixteen, when he came to South Carolina with his parents, and thence to North Carolina, where he married and remained a short time. The mother was born and reared in North Carolina. After their marriage they came to New Albany, Ind., when there were but settlements in the place. For nine years the father ran a ferry across the Ohio Kiver, the first one at the place. He also assisted to survey and plat the town of New Albany, and was one of the prominent men of the place. From New Albany he moved to Busseron Township, with all his family, in March, 1821, and followed farming the remainder of his life. At the present time there are but two of his family living, the subject of this sketch and Reason B. Benjamin Sproatt's early education was obtained mainly in the primitive log schoolhouse, with but indifferent teachers. His early life was spent amid pioneer surroundings, and he frequently carried corn to mill on horseback quite a distance. His father once put up a wind-mill, and later a horse-mill, and ground corn for the neighbors. The subject remained with his parents until twenty-four years of age, when he married and settled where he now lives. He is a successful farmer, and has owned 500 acres of land, but is now dividing it among his children. He started the second store in Oaktown, and is now connected with his sons in the same store. He was married, December 5, 1837, to Mary Pifer, a native of Virginia, born April 15, 1814, and came to Indiana about 1835. To them have been born six children, all of whom are now living: Margaret C, the wife of John A. Shepard; John W., whose sketch appears elsewhere; George W., a farmer; Commodore P., a partner in the store; Eliza H., yet at home, and Mary, wife of John W. "Wolf, of Sulli- van County, Ind. The family has been remarkably healthy, all of them having good physical constitutions. Mr. Sproatt and all of his family are members of the Christian Church. Politically he has been a zealous Democrat, and he is highly respected as a moral, upright citizen. He is thoroughly a self-made man, and though one of the oldest inhabitants of the township, is yet strong and hearty.

JOHN W. SPEC- ATT was born near Oaktown, Ind., August 29, 1840, and is the second of six children born to Benjamin and Mary (Pifer) Sproatt. He was reared to manhood on an Indiana farm, and acquired a somewhat limited education. He resided with his parents until twenty-five years of age, when he engaged in the mercantile business with his father, and has ever since successfully continued. He now owns, in connection with his brother, 100 acres of very fine land. They deal in all kinds of general merchandise, keeping a good and full line of goods. The business was established in 1865 by Benjamin Sproatt and John N. Shepard, but in 1870 became known under its present firm name, John W. and Commodore P. being the present members of the firm. The former is the oldest business man of the town. He was married, in 1868, to Sallie E. Bond, daughter of Adam Bond. They have three children, viz.: Urban, Minnie, and Pearlie. Mr. Sproatt and family are members of the Christian Church, and politically he has always been a zealous Democrat, and belongs to one of the highly respected families of the county.

WILLIAM H. H. STIPE, a very prominent old farmer of the county, was born at Crab Orchard, Ky., September 11, 1818, son of Henry and Jennie (Adams) Stipe, both natives of the "Bluegrass State." They came to Knox County, Ind., on Christmas day, 1824, and located near Vincennes. The father was a farmer and mechanic, and was one of the prominent men of the county, being a captain of militia to guard against the Indians. They moved to Busseron Township in 1825, where both parents died, the mother in 1843, and the father in 1849. Our subject received his early education in the historic log schoolhouse of early times. After attaining his majority he worked about as a farm-hand three or four years, and then married and began farming on rented land on the edge of Shaker Prairie.