Washington Township (part 6 of 9)

FRANK A. MYERS, editor and manager of the Washington Gazette, was born near Strasburg, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, December 28, 1848, being a son of the Rev. Absalom and Nancy (Gorsage) Myers, both natives of Ohio. His parents removed to Daviess County in 1861, the father locating first in Van Buren Township, and soon after in Barr Township, where he purchased a farm upon which he still resides. The subject of this sketch was reared with his parents, secured a good literary education, and graduated from the Hartsville (Indiana) University in 1875. During his attendance at this University he started a newspaper called the Literary Ensign, conducting it until he left college, and selling it at that time. He also taught school in this county in order to secure means to enable him to finish his education. He made teaching his profession from 1875 to 1878, when, on account of failing health, he relinquished the profession of teaching, and became city editor of the Columbus (Indiana) Daily Republican, a position which he retained one year. Then in order to recuperate his health he acted one year as traveling salesman. In February, 1882, he came to Washington, Daviess County, and purchased an interest in the Gazette, assuming the position of editor and manager, and has since performed the duties of these positions in an able and satisfactory manner. Mr. Myers is a stanch Republican, and his paper is devoted to the interests of that party, advocating its principles in an able and fearless manner. He was married, December 28, 1882, to Miss Ella Elliot, a native of Knox County, Ind. Mr. Myers is a member of the I. 0. 0. F. He is of German descent on his father's side, and of English and German on his mother's side.

JOHN T. NEAL, of the firm of Neal & Eskridge, dry goods and grocery merchants, of Washington, Ind., was born in Lawrence County, 111., April 2, 1857, and i6 a son of Francis and Lucinda M. (Staugner) Neal, natives of Missouri and Kentucky, respectively. John T. was raised in his native county until he was nine years old, when his father was killed in the war of the Rebellion. He then moved with his mother to Grayson County, Ky., and remained there until his mother's death in 1869. He was then adopted by Julius N. Eskridge, a citizen of Grayson County, Ky., and secured a good education in the common schools. He clerked in the mercantile business for his guardian for three years, and then clerked for other firms until 1880, when he engaged in the grocery business for himself in Caneyville, Ky., continuing there until the summer of 1882, when he removed to this city and engaged in his present business, with S. C. Eskridge as partner. They have met with well deserved success, and carry a full and select line of goods. October 14, 1880, Mr. Neal was united in matrimony to Fannie M. Eskridge, a daughter of Elijah R. Eskridge, of this city. They have one child, a daughter, named Sadie L. Mr. Neal is a Democrat, and a member of the K. of P., and a successful and enterprising young business man of this city.

JOSIAH C. PALMER, a very prominent farmer of Daviess County, Ind., is the eldest of Andrew C. and Margaret (Ennis) Palmer's children. Our subject's grandfather, Richard Palmer, was one of the three men who first settled in the forks of White River. He came from South Carolina, and settled about two miles west of Washington, on the State road. He was the first sheriff of Daviess County. The father was reared on a farm, and followed the occupation of farming for himself about six years, when he moved to Maysville, and was nine years at work building a water-mill, the first in the county. This mill ground grain for five counties for a number of years. He was very prosperous financially, and was a Democrat in his political views. He died in June, 1855. The mother, also a native of the county, survived him until August, 1869. The immediate subject of this sketch was born December 18, 1830. He was reared by his parents until nineteen years of age, and secured a limited education. At that age he took a western trip, traveling to California, where he was engaged in mining about two years. He then returned home and purchased his present farm, where he has continued very successfully ever since. He owns over 800 acres of very fine and well-improved land, nearly all under cultivation, also an elegant two-6tory residence. May 18, 1852, he was united in marriage to Elizabeth Ann Williman, born in Ohio in 1836, and coming to Indiana when but one year old. She is a daughter of Hiram and Margery (Crawford) Williman, pioneers of the county. They became the parents of fourteen children; two died in infancy, and one at the age of fourteen years. Those living are Laura A., Andrew C, Hiram L., Elizabeth A., Glenn D., Charles M., William H., Mary M., Walter F., Franklin and Seth. Since 1860 Mr. Palmer has been a Republican; previous to that time a Democrat. He is a good citizen, and one who has the respect of all. His wife is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

ABRAHAM PERKINS, farmer, was born in Daviess County, Ind., August 31, 1842, and was the seventh of ten children born to Alfred and Rebecca (Ellison) Perkins, who were born in the "Blue-grass State," and came to Indiana during its very early settlement. Here they married and lived the remainder of their lives, following the independent lives of farmers. They became quite well to do, and were influential citizens of the county. Our subject had limited educational advantages, and at the age of fourteen began working about as a farm hand. July 3, 1861, when he was nearly nineteen years old, he enlisted in Company I, Twenty-fourth Indiana Yolunteers, and was mustered out in October, 1864. He was slightly wounded in each arm, but was never off duty a day while in the service. After his return from the army he began farming in Knox County, continuing until 1869, when he purchased the land he now lives upon (120 acres). August 9, 1866, he was united in marriage to Amanda McDonald, born in the county March 6, 1844, daughter of Francis and Asenath McDonald, early settlers of the county. The wife is a member of the Christian Church, and Mr. Perkins is a warm Republican in politics, and is one of the successful and enterprising farmers of the county.

NATHAN G. READ, a well-known citizen of Daviess County, was born in this county March 30, 1842, and is the youngest of a family of three sons and four daughters born to Nathan and Martha (Weaver) Read, natives, respectively, of Massachusetts and Pennsylvania. The former came to Daviess County at an early day, and led a long, useful, and honorable life upon his farm to the time of his death in March, 1859. The latter died in 1848. The subject of this sketch was reared on his father's farm, and secured an ordinary education. At the age of twenty-one he accepted the position of deputy county auditor under his brother, Richard N., serving in that capacity until November, 1867, when he was elected to the position of auditor, and served two terms. In 1876 he was elected sheriff of the county, and served one term of two years. After retiring from the office of sheriff he was engaged for three years in the general merchandising business in Washington. Mr. Read is an unswerving Democrat in politics, and has always been true to the interests of his party, as his repeated election to office shows. In October, 1884, he accepted the position of deputy treasurer of Daviess County under Richard H. Greenwood, and has almost entire charge of the office. He is a member of the city school board, and is generally recognized as one of the most enterprising citizens of the county. He was married, January 21, 1878, to Mrs. Fannie McCullough, by whom he has two sons: Robert Nathan and Lewis I. Read.

J. H. RIGHT was born in Daviess County February 6, 1820, and is one of four children born to James C. and Sarah (Hawkins) Right. His father was born in South Carolina, and immigrated to Indiana in 1809 and the mother several years later. They settled in Daviess County, where the subject of this sketch now lives, and were among the very early settlers, and were obliged to protect themselves from the Indians by taking refuge in forts. When our subject was twenty-three years of age his father died, and he then resided with his mother until twentyseven years old. April 28, 1846, he was married to Caroline Walker, daughter of George and Catherine Walker, natives of Kentucky. Mr. Eight rented ground until 1858, when he settled on his present farm. To them were born these children: James F., G. W., John W., Thomas E., Francis B., Mary E., A. E., Carrie and Ella. Five are deceased. Mr. Right has always been a farmer and now owns eighty-three acres of land. He and wife have been members of the Methodist Episcopal Church for thirty-one years. He is a Republican and cast his first vote for Buchanan. He is self-educated and is an excellent citizen of the county.

JOHN A. RODARMEL, of Washington, Daviess County, was born in Washington, December 2, 1848, being one of a family of seven children born to Samuel A. and Lucinda (Ball) Rodarmel, natives, respectively, of Pennsylvania and Ohio. Samuel A. Rodarmel was born June 10, 1810, and was married to Miss Lucinda Ball February 22, 1832. Miss Ball was born at Cincinnati, Ohio, February 22, 1812. The former was of German parentage, the latter of Scotch. Samuel A. Rodarmel came to Daviess County in 1825 or 1820 from Pennsylvania, locating in Washington Township with his father, John Rodarmel. After his marriage he removed to Washington and engaged in the cabinet-making and undertaking business, which he continued until 1863, when he was appointed postmaster of Washington. This position he retained until his death from small-pox April 14, 1804. The subject of this sketch was brought up in Washington with his parents and secured a limited education. At the age of ten he began learning the printer's trade with S. F. Horrall, of Washington, in the old Telegraph office. He mastered his trade in that office and in those of other local papers, and also in the office of the Evansville Journal. In 1865 he accepted a position with the Gazette and in 1868 bought an interest in the paper, which he held until 1870, when he sold out, still however, remaining with the paper. In 1882 he purchased an interest in the paper, which he still retains, and has charge of the composing-room and job- room of the company. In politics Mr. Rodarmel is a Republican, and is a member of the Encampment of the I. O. R. M. He was married, in 1875, to Miss Frances Meredith, daughter of Squire B. T. Meredith, by whom he has five children - three sons and two daughters.

FRANCIS RUGGLESS is the eldest of seven children born to Jacob Ruggless, who was born in Kentucky in 1803, and of Welsh parentage. The mother was also born in Kentucky. They moved to Indiana in 1811 and were among the very early settlers of that unbroken country. Our subject was born February 1, 1824, and was reared on the place where he was born. He secured such education as could then be obtained, and at the age of eighteen began working for himself at milling at the old Palmer Mill, he having helped build the same in 1844. He continued in the milling business thirty -four years. September 12, 1847, he was united in matrimony to Miss A. Martin, daughter of A. and Nancy Martin. To them were born these children: Nancy, Jacob, Elizabeth, Sarah and Clay. All are deceased except Nancy and Jacob. Mrs. Ruggless died December 1, 1854, and February 3, 1859, he was married to Nancy J. Fraim, daughter of George and Nancy (Haskins) Fraim. To them were born these children: Alice, Eva, Henrietta (are deceased), John M., James L., Francis, William D., Nathan, Laura, Edith. In 1881 Mr. Ruggless removed to the farm where he now lives. In January, 1865, he enlisted in Company K, One Hundred and Forty-third Indiana Volunteers, and served nine months. He was discharged at Nashville and mustered out at Indianapolis. He is a Republican and cast his first vote for Harrison. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

JOHN A. SCUDDER, M. D., Washington, Ind., was born in Daviess County November 1, 1832, and is the eldest of a family of five children born to Jacob F. and Matilda (Arrell) Scudder, natives, respectively, of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. His father came to Daviess County with his father, John A. Scudder, in 1819. The latter named was a physician and surgeon in the Revolutionary war, and was among the first of any note to follow the profession in Daviess County. Jacob F. Sc\idder was raised in this county, and was engaged in farming and in flatboating to New Orleans at an early day. He was one of the enterprising and successful farmers of his time, was a Whig in politics, and died on his farm in Veal Township, May 31, 1844. His widow subsequently married William F. Wood, and they both still live in the county. The subject of this sketch was brought up on the farm, and secured the same kind of education obtained by other young men of that day. At the age of twentytwo he began the study of medicine with Dr. S. W. Peck, now a practicing physician of Washington, attended lectures, and graduated at the Miami Medical College at Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1857. He then returned to Washington and began here the practice of medicine, which he has ever since continued with more than ordinary success. He served as surgeon in the Sixty-fifth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry two years during the war of the Rebellion. In politics he is a Republican, is a member of the I. O. O. F., of the K. of H. and of the G. A. R. Dr. Scudder was married, in 1859, to Helen S.Van Trees, daughter of Col. John Van Trees, by whom he has had seven children, five of whom are still living, as follows: Charles P., a practicing physician; Tillie F., Laura G., Anna and David.

WILLIAM SHANKS, ex-county surveyor and farmer, is a native of Fayette County, Penn., born June 29, 1827, son of John and Sarah (Jordan) Shanks, and is of German-Irish extraction. Of four children, he is the third. His father was born in north Pennsylvania in 1801, and the mother in 1802, in the same State. His grandfather was William Shanks, also a Pennsylvanian, and died in his native State in 1842. The father of our subject came to Daviess County in 1837, and entered 160 acres of land. He also followed the tanner's trade. He returned to Pennsylvania in 1838, and there remained until 1846, when he removed with his family to Daviess County, Ind., and settled in Washington Township, and here died in the fall of 1852. The mother of our subject died in 1883. Our subject remained at home and worked for his father until he was twenty-three years of age, when he taught school three terms. In 1849 he was appointed deputy surveyor, and served two years. In 1852 he went to California and engaged in mining, but returned in the spring of 1856 and began farming. In 1858 lie settled where he now lives. He owns 326 acres of land, of which 226 acres are in a fine state of cultivation. In 1S6S he was elected county surveyor of Daviess County, and re-elected in 1872. He was married, in 1857, to Miss Catherine Graham, a native of Pike County, Ind., born October 31, 1827, daughter of John and Ann M. Graham. Her father was born in Scotland in 1779, and her mother in Maryland in 1801. They have three children: Anna M. and Sarah E. (twins),born February, 1861, and John G., born 1862. Mr. Shanks is a Eepublicau, and owns one of the best farms in Washington Township.

FEANKLIN SMEAD is a native of Cincinnati, Ohio, where he was born December 18, 1832. His parents were "Wesley and Cornelia Smead. The father was born in Whitehall, New York State, and was reared there and in Poughkeepsie. He was born in 1800, and at the age of eighteen went to Cincinnati, Ohio, and engaged in the drug business, accumulating wealth rapidly, and eventually became one of the prominent men of the city, and a wealthy banker. In 1857 the bank suspended, and he went back to Poughkeepsie, and at one time was worth $500,000, but lost nearly all his property in 1857. The mother was born in Connecticut, and in early life went to Cincinnati, Ohio. She died in 183s, and the father in 1871. Our subject was reared in Cincinnati, Ohio, and received a good education, both mercantile and classical. After attaining his majority he began farming in Illinois, and continued in that State until 1872, when he moved onto his present farm. He devotes the most of his time to tne culture of bees and fruits, and the rearing of cattle. He owns 120 acres of exceptionally fine land near Washington, on which is erected a fine two-story residence. In 1864 he was married to Sarah E. Sneath, a native of New Jersey, who immigrated to Illinois before the war. To them were born eleven children, two of whom died in infancy: Stella, Ida M., Minnie, Pearl, Llewellyn, Clarence, Harry, Daniel and Mabel. Those deceased were Alexander and Edith. Mr. Smead has always been a Republican, and is a prominent farmer. Mrs. Smead is a member of the church.

HORACE A. SMITH is the second of a family of five children born to Thomas and Laura (McJunkin) Smith. The father born in Daviess County, Ind., July 13, 1825, and spent the most of his life in agricultural pursuits. He died in 1863. The mother was born February 4, 1832, and died April 14, 1860. Horace A. was born November 9, 1853. His mother died when he was but seven years of age, and his father kept house until 1863, when he too died, and our subject then made his home with an uncle, with whom he remained until eighteen years of age. When twenty-one years old he began farming on rented land, but by economy and industry he now owns 120 acres of well-improved and fine farming land, with good residence and barns. March 1 3, 1879, he took for his companion through life Miss Laura Mc- Cleskey, born in Daviess County March 10, 1859. Three children have blessed their union: Mary M., born December 25, 1879; Caroline, born October 4, 1881, and Ira T., born March 2, 1884. Mrs. Smith is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and our subject is a Republican politically. He is one of the wide-awake men of the county, and takes an active interest in all enterprises for the public good.

DAVID SOLOMAN, commonly known as " Uncle," was born twelve miles from Bean's Station (which was a trading post during the war of the Revolution), near the Holston River, in Granger County, Tenn., April 3, 1809, son of Henry and Mary Soloman, whose maiden name was Brown, and is of German- English descent. He is the fifth in a family of six children. His father was born in Culpeper County, Va., in 1773, and his mother in South Carolina in 1778. In 1820 the Soloman family came to Indiana, and settled in Jackson County, and there remained two years, then removed to Orange County, where they remained three years, and then removed to Spencer County, Ky., and lived near Taylorsville, the county seat, until 1832, when, on the 5th of March, they arrived in this county, and settled on a farm four miles southeast of Washington. By occiipation the father of Uncle David was a farmer and shoe-maker, and was also a soldier in the war of 1812. He remained in Daviess County about fifteen years, and then removed to Wisconsin, where he died about 1858. The mother also died in that State in 1853. Mr.

Soloman lived with his parents until he arrived at manhood's years, and then learned the wagon-maker's trade, at which he is very skillful, and has since continued in that business. He has been a resident of this county fifty-three years. Mr. Solomau was married, in 1832, to Miss Sarah Carnahan, by whom he had seven children, one of whom survives, viz. : John. Mrs. Soloman died in 1843, and Mr. Soloman was married again the same year to Miss Elizabeth Logan. To this marriage were born two children - one still lives, viz. : Samuel D. Mrs. Soloman died February 27, 1881, and Mr. Soloman was married the same year to Mrs. Sophia J. Sumpter, a native of Dayton, Ohio, born in 1830, daughter of Alexander and Elizabeth Wood. Her father was born in Connecticut in 1805, and her mother in South Carolina in 1800. Mrs. Soloman was first married, in 1851, to Hudson Burrows, a native of Louisville, Ky. He was a Mexican soldier, and died at Leavenworth, Kas., in 1858. She was again married, in 1862, to Dr. W. H. Sumpter, a native of Kentucky, born in 1838, and died in 1876. She married her present husband in 1881. Mr. Soloman was formerly a Whig, and is now a Republican. He had two sons in the late war. In 1841 he joined the Christian Church, of which he was a member seventeen years, and then united with the Presbyterian Church. He was elected county commissioner in 1860, and served three years. Subsequently he was elected trustee of Washington Township, and served one year. Physically he yet seems in the prime of life, and "though he is passing into the sere and yellow leaf, his years sit lightly upon him." He is a man with many friends, few enemies, and in whom every one hasthe most implicit confidence. His word is as good as his note. The history of Daviess County would be incomplete without the sketch of this eminent Christian gentleman. JOHN V. SPALDING, superintendent of the Poor Asylum of Daviess County, Ind., was born in Martin County, Ind., October 13, 1836. He was the eldest of a family of six children born to Hillary and Mary (Strange) Spalding, who were natives of Washington County, Ky. They were married in Daviess County, Ind., and lived two years in Martin County, when they returned to Daviess County, and are yet residing there. The father and mother were born about 1816 and 1814, respectively. John V.

was reared on his father's farm, and secured such education as could be obtained in the subscription schools of early times. He remained with his parents until twenty-three years of age, when he married and located in his native township, where he continued farming eight years. He then took charge of the County Poor Asylum, and had control of it for eight years. He then returned to the farm, where he remained two years. He was again urged to take the superintendency of the asylum, and has now had control of it for about seven years. He has been very successful, and the farm is in excellent condition, and is self-supporting in keeping up all the expense of paupers and salaries of men. November 13, 1859, he was united in marriage to Mary E. McAtee, a native of this county, whose parents moved from Kentucky to Daviess County, Ind. To their union eight children have been born, seven now living: James L. (now employed on the farm), Julia A.. Martha A., Amanda L., William A., John F. and Leo. The family are members of the Catholic Church, and Mr. Spalding is a member of the Democratic party.

JOHN H. SPENCER, attorney at law and deputy prosecuting attorney of the Forty-ninth Judicial District, of Washington, Ind., was born at Greenville, Tenn., December 28, 1860, and is a son of William M. and Elizabeth (Jones) Spencer, both natives of North Carolina. They came with their children to Indiana in 1865 or 1866, locating at Rushville. Two years later they moved to Washington, where the subject of this sketch was raised and where he secured a liberal education in the public schools, and graduated from the high school in 1880. At the age of nineteen he began reading law with J. W. Ogdon, continuing a student in Mr. Ogdon's office until 1881, when he was admitted to the Daviess County bar. He then formed a law partnership with William H. Myers, and continued to practice with him until his removal from the city, since which time he has practiced alone with encouraging success. Mr. Spencer is a Democrat, and has taken an active part in the political affairs of his county and district. He has been a candidate for nomination to the State Legislature, but withdrew in favor of a friend before the meeting of the convention. In the spring of 1885 he was appointed deputy prosecutor for this district, under Hiram McCormick, the duties of which office he is now performing in a faithful and efficient manner. He was clerk of the judiciary committee in the House of Representatives during regular and special sessions of Legislature in 1885, and he takes an active part in local campaigns by stumping the county as chairman of executive committee, or in any way called upon to act.

HON. SAMUEL H. TAYLOR, citizen of Washington and attorney at law, was born January 25, 1837, in Cumberland, Md., where he was reared and educated. Here, too, he read law and entered upon the practice of his profession, but soon after was appointed postmaster, by President Buchanan, of his native city, serving as such during that administration. In 1861 Mr. Taylor moved to Washington, Ind., and has successfully practiced his profession ever since. He was one of the organizers of the Washington National Bank in 1872, and of which he was vicepresident, cashier and director. He was twice elected district attorney, and in 1872 was elected prosecuting attorney of the Vincennes Circuit. He has thrice been chosen as delegate to Democratic National Conventions, viz. : Baltimore in 1872, when Horace Greeley was nominated; in 1876 when Samuel J. Tilden was the nominee, and at Chicago in 1884, when Grover Cleveland was the chosen leader and victor in the memorable campaign of that year. In 1878 he was elected representative of Daviess County, after one of the hottest contests ever made in the county, and was again elected representative in 1884, and was chairman of the committee on judiciary, and was also on many other important committees. Mr. Taylor is a recognized leader of his party in his section of the State, and, although a strict partisan, is liberal in his views, and a stanch defender of the rights of the people. He is dignified in his bearing, courteous in manner, agreeable as a friend, and forcible and earnest as a speaker. He married Miss Josette E. Johnson, in his native city of Cumberland. Md., and has six children: Edith, the wife of Thomas F. Candler, of Waco, Tex.; Ella B., wife of Thomas H. Walker, of Cincinnati, Ohio; Fred H, Norwood, Alice and Josette Taylor. Mr. Taylor has always been a friend of education, and for many years was one of the school board of Washington. He is now national bank examiner for the State of Indiana, having been appointed by Mr. Manning, Secretary of the Treasury, in June, 1885.

Biographical Sketches. 8U3

ELI THOMAS, a prominent citizen of Washington, Ind., is a native of the county, born August 20, 1826, and is one of a family of two sons and four daughters born to the marriage of Grandison and Mary (Hughes) Thomas. The father was a Virginian by birth. He was raised in that State, where he married his first wife, and came to Daviess County, Ind., in 1820, locating on a farm near "Washington, where his wife died. He then married our subject's mother. Their deaths occurred within seven days of each other, in 1863. The father was eighty-one years of age and the mother seventy-one. Eli was raised on a farm with his parents, and secured a limited education, such as could be obtained by a few months1 attendance each year in the primitive log schoolhouse of his boyhood days. In 1859 he married Winifred Rott and purchased a farm adjoining the homestead, where he followed farming successfully until 1869, when he removed to this city and engaged in the general merchandise business six and one-half years. He then purchased a one-half interest in William Buck's livery stable, and at the end of two years purchased the entire stock and conducted the business alone until 1883. He then bought his present stable, and commands the leading livery business in the city. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas became the parents of one child, which died in infancy. He is an Independent in politics, though formerly a Republican. He is a Mason, and he and wife are members of the Christian Church.

ANDERSON VEALE, farmer, was born in Veal Township March 8, 1831, son of James C. and Eleanor (Aikman) Veale, and is of German-English descent. He is the eighth in a family of nine children. His father was born in South Carolina and his mother in Pennsylvania. They came to what is now Indiana in 1807 and settled in what is now known as Veal Township, and here his father died. His mother died in Kansas. His Grandfather Veale built the first mill on Veal Creek and in Veal Township, and in honor of whom this township was named. Our subject settled where he now lives in 1864. He has 117 acres of well-improved land and one of the finest farms in the county. He was married, December, 1856, to Miss May J. Allen, born in Washington Township in 1835, daughter of Moses and Catharine Allen. They have four children living, viz.: Lydia, James C,

Denie and John A. He is a Eepublican and for eighteen years has been a member of the I. O. O. F. He is a representative of one of the first families of the county. His grandfather was a Revolutionary soldier.

GEORGE A. WALLER, Sr., of the firm Waller & Prentiss, dealers in saddlery, harness, buggies, wagons, etc., etc., is a native of Daviess County, Ind., where he was born December 13, 1828, and is one of two surviving members of a family of nine children born to George A. and Katherine (McDonald) Waller, who were born in Kentucky, the father in 1793. He came to Indiana about 1816. Here he married and settled near Washington. He was a farmer until about 1851 or 1852, when he removed to this city, where he died in 1867. He was originally an old time Whig in politics, and was sheriff of the county when that officer collected United States revenues. He was assessor of the entire county and was census enumerator previous to his removal to Washington. He clerked in the mercantile business as clerk and bookkeeper of Elisha Hyatt. He was also in the same business with Col. John Van Trees and afterward by himself until he became involved by security debts, when he returned to the farm, and was also justice of the peace a number of years previous to his death. He was well and favorably known throughout the county and died in the Christian faith. Our subject was raised on a farm and at the age of twenty-one began learning the carpenter's trade, which he mastered and followed successfully until 1869, when his health failed him and he engaged in the saddlery and harness business with George T. Barr, who afterward sold out and Henry S. Prentiss became a partner in the business. They do an excellent and extensive business in their line, and command a large trade in town and county. January 2, 1855, Mr. Waller married Mary Aikman, born in the county, and daughter of Hugh and Ada Aikman. To them were born six sons, four now living: Francis A., James E., Archie A. and Charles H. Mr. Waller is a stanch Republican and a warm advocate for the principles of his party. He is a member of the Encampment of I. O. O. F. His wife died November 16, 1867, and he has since remained unmarried.

THOMAS WILSON, Sr., was born in Manchester, England, January 20, 1819, and is a son of John and Sarah (Glover) Wilson. They were both natives of England, but the mother was of Welsh parentage. The father was a miner and our subject was reared near the mines. His early educational advantages were very imperfect, but since attaining his majority he has improved his education very much. His mother died when he was very young and he remained with his father to the age of twenty. His father died about this time and Thomas came to America about 1855 and worked in mines in Pennsylvania for about three years. He came to Washington in the fall of 1857 and in connection with other parties opened a mine, which soon became exhausted. He then became connected with Cabel & Kauffman and the firm took the name of Cabel, Wilson & Co., doing a very extensive business. Mr. Wilson and a friend were instrumental in introducing coal burning on the Ohio & Mississippi Railroad. He remained a partner of Messrs. Cabel & Co. until November 7, 1885, when he retired from the firm and now has an interest in the Cannelburg mines. He was married about 1839 to Mary Wrigley, born in Manchester, England, in 1818. To them were born eight children, six now living : William, Sarah, Elizabeth, John, Thomas, James, Harriet and Joseph. Mr. Wilson is a Republican and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

THOMAS WILSON, Jr., is the son of Thomas and Mary Wilson (see sketch), and was born January 4, 1849, near Manchester, England. He came with his parents to America and remained two years in Pennsylvania, and then came to Daviess County, Ind., where he was reared to manhood and has lived ever since. He secured a graded school education, and at the age of twenty-nine married, and has ever since lived in this city. He has been superintendent and boss of his father's mines, and was State Mine Inspector for four years ending January 1, 1885. He is now superintendent of the Wilson Coal Company's mines, of Montgomery, in which he has an interest. He has been very successful as a business man, and is a member of the Masonic fraternity (Knight Templar). His political views are Democratic. October 8, 1879, he was married to Ida Clark, daughter of Lewis and Laura Clark, now of Daviess County. The father died during the late war, and the mother now lives with our siibject. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson are the parents of one child - Bessie B. - born June 19, 1882.

JOSEPH WILSON, book-keeper for the firm of Cabel, Wilson & Co., was born near Manchester. England, April 14, 1853, being the youngest of eight children, sis of whom are now living, born to Thomas and Mary Wilson. In 1855 the subject of this sketch was brought to the United States by his parents, and in 1857 to Daviess County. Here he was brought up and given a good education. He completed a scientific course in the Union Christian College at Merom, Sullivan Co., Ind. From his eleventh to his nineteenth year he worked in the coal mines owned by the firm of which his father was a member, and after completing his education and returning home from college, at the age of twenty-four, he accepted the position of book-keeper for the firm of Cabel, Wilson & Co. He remained in this position until 1878, when he was elected by the Bepublican party clerk of the Daviess County Circuit Court, and served faithfully in that office four years, when he returned to his old position of book-keeper. Mr. Wilson has always been a consistent and earnest Republican. He is a Mason, and has received the Knight Templar degree, and he is also a member of the I. O. O. F. He was married, June 1, 1876, to Miss Eunice Humphrey, a native of Ohio. They have two children: William H. and Mary Edna. Both Mr. and Mrs. Wilson are members of the Christian Church.

WILLIAM WILLIAMS is the first of three children born to Watson and Cynthia (Sinks) Williams. The father was born in Mason County, Ky., February 8, 1810, and the mother in Virginia in 1809. The paternal grandfather was a native of Kentucky ; moved to Indiana in 1825. The mother's people came in 1809, and the grandfather of our subject participated in the war of 1812. The parents were married in 1835. Mr. Williams, the subject of this sketch, was reared on the farm where he was born, and secured a common school education. October 1, 1859, he was married to Tabitha Stephenson, daughter of Peter and Jane (Crabb) Stephenson, who were natives of the "Buckeye State." She was the seventh of eleven children, and was born May 31, 1840.

They became the parents of these children: Thomas A., born in 18G0; Sarah J., born in 1862; William G., born in 1864; Cynthia A., born in 1867; Ella M., born in 1870; Carrie B., born in 1873; John P., born in 1876, and Mattie M., born in 1878. Ella May died in August, 1875. Mr. Williams has always been a stanch Republican in his political views, and cast his first presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln, in 1860. He has never held any public office, and has never had his name before the public for patronage. He has been quite prosperous in his undertakings, and owns 200 acres of land, 140 of which are under cultivation.

MARION WRIGHT, a well-to-do farmer of Daviess County, Ind., was born on the farm where he now lives September 17, 1853, and is the eldest of four living children born to Roderick R. and Anne (McJunkin) Wright, who are natives of this county. The father was born and reared near Washington, and was a skillful and prosperous farmer. He was born about 1823, and died October 3, 1868. The mother was born about 1830, and died August 30, 1884. Our subject spent his boyhood days on a farm and in attending the district schools, where he secured a common school education. He remained with his parents until their death, and then still continued to farm on the old place. In 1878 he was married to Lodena Taylor, daughter of Joseph M. Taylor, a farmer of the county. They have three children, viz. : Lucilla T., Mary C. and Josephine. Mr. Wright has been quite prosperous in his agricultural pursuits, and now owns 200 acres of very fine farming land, on which are erected good buildings. He is a very zealous Republican, and always has been, and ranks among the first, and one of the public-spirited men of the county. His wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

FRANCIS ZINKANS was born near Washington, Daviess Co., Ind., and is the seventh of ten children born to Philip and Anna B. ^Husfeld) Zinkans, born in Germany and died in this country in 1875 and 1884, at the age of seventy-two and seventy years respectively. Our subject was reared near Washington, and resided with his parents until twenty-one years of age, when he married Mary, daughter of John and Mary Corcoran. She was born November 8, 1845. After his marriage, which occurred November 21, 1864, Mr. Zinkans resumed farm- ing, having previously purchased eighty acres of land in Harrison Township. He lived there about five years, and then traded his land for forty acres, a portion of his present farm of 260 acres. To him and his wife were born these children: Genevieve, born in 1865; Maggie, born in 1867; John, born in 1869; Thomas, born in 1871; Kosa, born in 1873; Catherine, born in 1875; Maurice (deceased), born in 1877; Nettie (deceased), born in 1880; Esther, born in 1882, and Austin, born in 1884. Mr. Zinkans cast his first vote for Gen. George B. MacClellan, and has always been a Democrat. In November, 1882, he was elected to the office of county commissioner, and held that office a term of three years; was re-elected in 1884, and is now serving in that capacity. He belongs to no secret society, is a Catholic, and has reared his children in that faith.

MILTON L. ALLEN is a son of Hiram and Keziah (Cook) Allen, natives of North Carolina, the former born in 1788, and the latter in 1812. They came to this county in early life, when the father followed farming as an occupation, and eventually became one of the largest land holders in the community. He was at one time county commissioner, and at another represented Daviess County in the State Legislature. His death occurred in 1844. The mother still lives at the age of seventy-three. Milton L. was born in 1843, and at the age of sixteen began the battle of life for himself. When nearly seventeen years old he married Amanda Lytton, who was born in 1839, daughter of Hosea and Elizabeth (Patterson) Lytton. Mr. and Mrs. Allen became the parents of six children: Lucetta, Gordon, Mason A., Walter I., Florence and Susan. Mr. Allen was one of the " boys in blue," and served in Company B, Twenty-seventh Indiana Infantry, enlisting in 1861. He was in the battles of Winchester, South Mountain, Ball's Bluff, Cedar Mountain, Resaca, Antietam, and many lesser engagements. At the lastnamed battle he was severely wounded by a minie-ball, and for several weeks lay at the point of death. As a partial compensation he received a pension of $6 per month. He served for over three years, and after returning home gave his entire attention to farming, and now owns 141 acres of land. He is a member of the Christian Church, and was constable of Van Buren Township for two years.

ABRAM T. BANTA, one of the early settlers of Daviess County, Ind., is a son of Henry and Jane (Fulton) Banta, and was born in the county where he now resides in 1823. The parents were natives of Kentucky, the father born in 1786. The mother was an own cousin of Robert Fulton, the inventor of the steamboat. They came to Indiana in 1823 and located in Daviess County, where they purchased 160 acres of timber land. The father died in 1872, and the mother in 1833. Abram obtained his education in the subscription schools of early days, and when twenty-two years old began working for himself on rented farms. Ten years later he went in debt for the greater part of eighty acres of land. By hard work and good management he not only paid for this, but added eighty acres more, making a good farm of 160 acres, 120 of which are under cultivation. In 1845 he was married to Eliza A. Stephens, born in 1830, daughter of William and Elizabeth (McCracken) Stephens. To their union the following children were born: Elizabeth J.. William W., Susan D., Martha A., Glen D., Mary E., Henry D., Sarah E., Charley A. and Thomas S. Mr. Banta served nine months in the late war in Company F, Forty-fourth Indiana Infantry. He is a Republican, and he and wife are members of the Christian Church.

WILLIAM BECKETT is a son of Samuel and Mary (Thornley) Beckett. The father, who was born in Virginia in 1789, came with his parents to Kentucky when an infant, and there grew to manhood. In 1818 he and family moved to Daviess County, Ind., where he afterward became the possessor of 700 acres of excellent farming land. His death occurred during the war. The mother was born in Kentucky and died in 1839. Our subject was born in Bourbon County, Ky., in 1817. After reaching his majority he began working for himself, and after laboring several months as a farm hand, began hauling goods from the river towns to Daviess County. Later he located on eighty acres of land given him by his father, which he has increased to 560 acres. In 1842 he wedded Mary A. Graves, born in 1825. They have these seven children: Charles T., James E., Angeline, William A., Robert, John E. and Eliza A. His wife, who was a member of the Catholic Church, died in 1876, and two years later he married Caroline Graves, who bore him two children: Mary J. and Matilda C. Mr. Beckett is a member of the Catholic Church, and a Democrat in politics.

ROBERT R. BELL, farmer, is a son of George and Margaret (Buchanan) Bell, who were natives of the Emerald Isle, born in 1776 and 1783, respectively. They were married in 1802, and in 1812 bade adieu to home and native land and embarked for the United States. While they were en route they were captured by a British man-of-war, because found on an American vessel, and retained within British territory for three years. They then came to America and passed the remainder of their lives in New York. The father died in 1840 and the mother in 1866. Robert R. was born in New York in 1823, and after completing his common school education he took a course of instruction in a higher institution of learning. For six years he taught school and followed the mercantile business, but becoming dissatisfied, he soon turned his attention to farming. Receiving some aid from his father he purchased a farm, and after making several changes sold out and came to Daviess County, Ind., in 1868. In 1846 he married Sarah J. Seeber, born in New York in 1825. They have three children: Robert H., Sarah J. and Willis B. Mrs. Bell died in 1863, and the same year he married Mary A. Gunn, born in 1823. Mr. Bell was one of the " boys in blue," and served in Company B, Tenth New York Artillery. Six months later he was discharged on account of sickness. He is a Republican and cast his first vote for Clay.

JOSEPH F. BRANDON, sou of Moses R. and Mahala (Gray) Brandon, was born in Switzerland County, Ind., in 1839. His father died when he was a small lad, and his mother married again. He was left to the care of his stepfather and was sent to school but very little. At the age of fourteen he ran away from home and worked at the blacksmith trade for about six years, when he left the man for whom he worked. In 1863 he enlisted in the Fourth Indiana Battery and was with Gen. Sherman during the entire service. After serving nearly two years he "received an honorable discharge. He then blacksmithed in Howard County, Ind. Here he married Harriet Bunnell in 1866. She was born in 1847, and is a daughter of Ezra and Susan (Ellis) Bunnell. They have six children: Omar, Susan, Nelson, James, Alfred and Mary. They also raised a boy by the name of Alfred Ingalls, and when twenty -one years old started him in life with a good team of horses. Some time after his marriage Mr. Brandon lived about eight years in Kansas. In 1877 he came to Daviess County, where he owns a farm of 200 acres. His parents were natives of Kentucky. The father was a farmer. He died in 1848, and the mother in 1854.

JAMES T. BKEWEE is the eldest of nine children born to George and Anne (Carrico) Brewer, and was born in Marion County, Ky., in 1828. His educational advantages in boyhood were very limited, he attending the subscription schools only a few weeks during the year. He remained with his father until twenty-five years of age, when he married Rosellen O'Brien, born in 1833, daughter of John J. and Louisa (Montgomery) O'Brien. To Mr. and Mrs. Brewer were born these four children: Josephine, Christopher O, Rosellen and Francis. Mr. Brewer is a stanch Democrat, and cast his first vote for Franklin Pearce. As a farmer he has met with good success. He began life for himself with eighty acres of timber land, which he began to clear and on which he built his first log house in 1854, which forms part of his present residence. His farm now amounts to 140 acres. Mrs. Brewer died in 1863, and the following year he married Jane E. Walker, born in 1838, daughter of James and Belinda (Mattingly) Walker. To this marriage these four children were born: George, James, Albert and Louis. All the family are members of the Catholic Church.

GEORGE W. BREWER is a son of George and Anne (Carrico) Brewer. The father was born in Maryland, in 1802, and when a lad moved with his father to Kentucky, where he grew to manhood. In 1827 he married our subject's mother, who was born in Kentucky, in 1807. Three years later they came to Indi- ana, and located in Daviess County in 1831, where they spent the remainder of their lives in agricultural pursuits. The father died in 1867, and the mother in 1869. Subject was born in 1832. He attended the old-time subscription schools, and on reaching manhood his father gave him eighty acres of timber land, which he began to clear. By hard work and good management he has increased his farm to 140 acres, 100 acres being under cultivation. In 1857 he was married to Josephine L. Montgomery, born in 1827. She is a daughter of James and Julia (Howard) Montgomery. To them were born these children: Julia A., Joseph Mathew, Mary A. and Annie E. All the family are members of the Catholic Church. Mr. Brewer is a Democrat and has been very successful in his business enterprises.

GEORGE H. CARRICO is a son of George G. and Elizabeth (Cissell) Carrico, who were born in Kentucky and there grew to maturity, married, and lived till 1818, when they came to Daviess County, Ind., and there spent the remainder of their days in agricultural pursuits. The father died in 1858, and the mother in 1845. George H. was born in Daviess County, Ind., in 1827, and at the age of twenty-one he began to battle his own way in the world. After farming for about one year, he purchased 200 acres of land, mostly on credit, and soon paid for that and 170 acres more. In 1850 he was married to Elizabeth Burris, born in 1834. About one year after marriage she died, leaving one child - David. In 1859 Mr. Carrico was married to Mary A. Summers, born in 1841, daughter of Thomas and Susan E. (O'Brien) Summers. Mr. and Mrs. Carrico became the parents of these seventeen children: Sarah, Susan, Charles, Martha, Mary, George, Richard, William, Josephine, Anna A., John, James, Anna J., Vincent, Cecelia and infant twins. The family are Catholics and Mr. Carrico is a stanch Democrat.

MICHAEL CUNNINGHAM, the leading farmer of Barr Township, Daviess Co., Ind., is a native of the " Emerald Isle," where he was born iD 1814 or 15. He is a son of B. and Margaret (Coyle) Cunningham. His mother died in 1820, leaving two children - him and a sister about two years younger than himself. His father died in 1830, and he and his sister lived for some time with their mother's brother. At the age of sixteen he began working for himself, receiving the munificent sum of $5 a year for his services. By 1836 he and his sister had saved enough money to enable them to take passage for the United States. They embarked on the ship " Southerner," and landed in New York with less than $5 in money between them. They soon obtained work, and Mr. Cunningham began digging cellars, and by his faithfulness and energy won the respect and approbation of his employers. From New York he worked his way to Providence, R. I., and for several months worked for the railroad. He then returned to New York and carried the hod for 75 cents per day ; but in a few weeks he and his sister embarked on board the ship "Havre" for Mobile, Ala., and reached that city when the yellow fever was raging. He succeeded in obtaining employment, and in 1838 took a trip up the Mississippi, and going as far northward as Chicago. He then worked on the river at Louisville, Ky., for some time, and for about seven years worked on the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. In 1840 he came to Daviess County, Ind., to visit friends, who prevailed upon him to invest some of his money in land. He purchased 160 acres of timber land, which he rented. He then returned to the river, but visited his farm every year and added improvements. In 1843 he moved on his place, where he kept house for himself for some time. That same year he married Julianna Shircliff, born in 1826, daughter of John and Mary (Gough) Shircliff. Mr. and Mrs. Cunningham became the parents of these children: Mary, Patrick, Andrew, Aliza, Louis, Michael, John and Joseph. Michael is one of the rising young teachers of the county, and the rest of the boys are farmers. All the family are members of the Catholic Church, and Mr. Cunningham is a Democrat in politics, although he votes for the man rather than the party. He has been quite a successful business man and is one of the first taxpayers of the county. MICHAEL DISSER was born in France in 1826, and is the son of Michael and Catherine (Ansteatt) Disser, who were born in the same province as our subject, in 1800 and 1808, respectively. In 1836 they embarked for the United States, coming via New Orleans to Evansville, Ind., and then by means of wagons to Daviess County, settling among the dense woods of Harrison Township. Here his father devoted his time to blacksmithing and farming, owning at his death, in 1862, 160 acres of land. The mother died in 1879. In boyhood he learned to read German and French, and after coming to this country attended the common schools, and later spent some time at Notre Dame. In 1850 he packed his belongings and went to California to dig gold. His outfit consisted of goods amounting to about $175. He reached his destination with only $10, the most of which he spent for a pick and pan. After remaining there about three years he returned home with a surplus of $5,000. In 1854 he purchased the farm of 160 acres where he now lives, and which he has since increased to 320 acres. In 1854 he was married to Mary Grinon, born about 1834 in the Emerald Isle. Their union was blessed with eight children: Joseph M., Rose, Lizzie, James, John, Bridget, Mary and Patrick. Both husband and wife are members of the Catholic Church. Mr. Disser is a stanch Democrat and cast his first vote for Cass. He has been a successful farmer, and is one of the men who has the interest and welfare of the county at heart.

WILLIAM L. EVANS, retired physician of Barr Township, Daviess Co., Ind., is a son of Harmon and Mary (Lamb) Evans. The father was born in Kentucky in 1803, and the mother in Ohio in 1807. They were married in Harrison County, Ind., in 1821, and there spent their lives. The father, who was a farmer, died in 1874, and the mother in 1848. William L. was bom in Indiana in 1830, and after attending the common schools he was a student in the academy at New Albany, Ind., for some time. In 1851 he began the study of medicine under A. M. Jones, of Corydon, with whom he staid three years. Two years later he attended the medical college of Louisville, Ky., but a short time before graduation was compelled to go home on account of sickness. In 1854 he began practicing his profession in Mt. Pleasant, and six years later went to Loogootee, and then moved to Montgomery, where he continued to reside until 1876, when he retired to the farm of 220 acres on which he now lives, but is often called upon to do duty as a physician by his many friends. In 1858 he was married to Mary A. Logan, born in Ohio in 1834. They have three children: Eugene H, William L. and Logan W. Mrs. Evans died in 1868, and five vears later Mr. Evans was married to Mary E. Hottell, born in 1845. They have three children: Walter A., John W. and Francis O. Mr. Evans is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and his wife of the United Brethren Church.

JAMES H. FANNING, the leading merchant of Montgomery, Ind., is the son of Thomas and Bridget (O'Reilly) Fanning, born in the Emerald Isle in 1812 and 1809, respectively. The father was educated for the Catholic priesthood, but owing to defective eye-sight was rejected. His father not wishing him to come to America, he concluded to take French leave, and accordingly came to the United States without his parents' knowledge. He was married, and after living in various places finally settled in Daviess County, where he purchased 200 acres of land. He died in 1871. The mother is still living. James H. was bora in Cincinnati, Ohio, and after completing the course of the common schools, he attended the normal school at Washington, Ind., and followed the life of a teacher for five years. In 1876 he married Margaret Farrell, born in 1853, and died in 1877, leaving one child, John J. In 1878 Mr. Fanning took charge of a bankrupt store in Alfordsville, but soon after started another store of general merchandise in Montgomery with John Robinson as partner. Later he purchased the entire stock and has since carried on the business very successfully alone. He owns eighty acres of good land besides his house and lot and store room and stock in the village. He has held a number of offices in the township, and is a man ever ready to support worthy enterprises.

JOHN H. GRAVES was bora in Barr Township, Daviess Co., Ind., in 1823, and received the education of the average farmer boy of his time. On reaching man's estate he paid his own way in school, thus acquiring a good education for that time. After raising a crop of corn and selling it he worked on the Ohio River on a flat-boat, but on returning he was taken very ill, and spent all his accumulated means to pay his physician. For three winters he cut cord-wood in the South for 50 cents a cord, and in time accumulated enough money to purchase forty acres of the farm on which he now lives. He now owns 400 acres of land and is well fixed financially. In 1849 he married Elizabeth Morgan, born in Daviess County in 1829. She is a daughter of

Charles and Mary (Burris) Morgan, and has borne her husband these children: Valentine, Charles, Mary, Matilda, James, William, Eebecca, Jennie, Gertrude, Catharine, Julia and John H. Charles was a teacher by profession for about four years. All the family are members of the Catholic Church. Mr. Graves is a warm Democrat, and cast his first vote for Polk. His enterprises have met with abundant success and he may be mentioned as one of the prominent men of the township in which he lives. His parents, John and Mary Graves, were born in Kentucky in 1793 and 1790, and died in Indiana in 1865 and 1866, respectively.

JOSIAH C. HARRIS, miller, of Montgomery, Ind., is the son of James and Nancy (Johnson) Harris, natives of Kentucky and Tennessee, respectively. They were married in Kentucky in 1818, and a year later moved to Indiana, locating on a farm in Sullivan County. The father's death occurred in 1854, and the mother's in 1842. Josiah was born in Sullivan County, in 1826. He had poor educational advantages, owing to the scarcity of schools and the demand for his services at home. At the age of seventeen he began doing for himself, working in flouring-mills in this and several other States, thereby obtaining a thorough knowledge of the trade. About 1850 he purchased a mill in his native county, operating it for two years, and then began saw-milling in connection. In 1876 he began erecting his present large five-story mill, and in 1884 put in the necessary machinery for the roller process. The mill turns off about thirty-five barrels of flour per day, and was erected at a cost of about $30,000. Besides this property he owns 440 acres of land in his native county. Mr. Harris has been married three times. His first wife, Leanna Riggs, born in 1835 and died in 1865, bore him seven children: Martin L., Julia A., Mary P., William W., Davis J., Clement L. and one unnamed. In 1866 he married Mary E. Beard, born in 1840. To them were born three children: James B., Ernest C. and Florence J. This wife died in 1878, and for his third wife he took Mary J. (Feagan) Beckett, who bore him one child, Helen L. For six years Mr. Harris filled the position of township trustee with ability, aDd to the satisfaction of the people.

George and Terresa (Langley) Hays, natives of the same State as our subject. In 1814 they moved to Kentucky, and three years later came to Indiana, locating in Daviess County. After suffering many of the privations incident to pioneer life, they enjoyed a good degree of prosperity, and owned about 600 acres of land at the father's death, which occurred about 1858. When the stage coach began to run between New Albany and Vincennes he was one of the first to build a 'stage stand. His death occurred while in Texas looking for a large body of land to purchase for his sons. The mother died in 1861. The sum total of George T.'s schooling was about six months. When twenty years old he began working on the canal at Ohio Falls, and later helped saw the lumber for three flat-boats, load them, and take them to New Orleans. Later he began working for a man for $8 per month. His first real estate was forty acres of timber land, which he afterward increased to 640 acres. In 1830 he married Mary A. Mc- Clelland, born in 1812, in Kentucky. To them were born these children: William, Terresa, John, George, Sarah, Louisa, Martha, Mary, Laura, Thomas and James. In 1874 Mrs. Hays died. Mr. Hays is an enterprising citizen of the county and is well fixed financially. His son, Thomas J., was born in 1851. He obtained a good education and was married, in 1877, to Emily Morgan, born in 1853. They have three children: George T., James E. and John. They live on the old homestead and have sole charge of it.

JOHN H. HAYS was born in Daviess County, Ind., in 1833, and is the eldest son of George T. and Mary (McClelland) Hays (mention of whom is made in this work). John H. attended the old time subscription schools, and at the age of twenty began earning his own living, and worked for some time in the pineries of Wisconsin. After his return he engaged in the fur trade during the winter, and followed agriculture during the summer. His first purchase of land was thirty acres, which he has since increased, acre by acre, until he now owns 265 acres - nearly all under cultivation. Besides farming he also engages in shipping cattle, sheep and hogs. He has been very successful in all his enterprises, and the secret of his success lies in the fact that he was industrious and prudent, and misfortunes and losses only made him the more determined to succeed. In 1862 he was married to Phoebe Brown, born in 1846, daughter of Whitard and Mary A. (Colbert) Brown. To Mr. and Mrs. Hays nine children were born: Fannie, Noah, Vitury, Mary E., Charles and Jerry, and three unnamed. Mrs. Hays is a member of the Christian Church, and Mr. Hays is a stanch Republican and cast his first vote for Fremont.

ORION B. HIXON, hotel proprietor, of Montgomery, Ind.T is a son of James P. and Laura A. (Beckett) Hixon, born in Daviess County in 1833 and 1837. They were married in 1856, and settled on a farm in Harrison Township, where the father purchased his first land (forty acres) on credit, and paid for it by hauling bridge timbers for the Ohio & Mississippi Railroad. He now owns 220 acres of land on which he and wife are yet living. Subject is a native of the county where he now resides ; born in 1857. He obtained a good practical education in the district schools, and afterward attended a term at the normal school, at Washington. When twenty-two years old he began farming on eighty acres of land given him by his father. Four years later he sold the place and entered the mail service. On account of failing health he soon abandoned this business and purchased an interest in the drug store known as Willeford & Hixon. In May, of the same year, he became sole proprietor of the business. In 1879 he was united in matrimony to Lillie Mc- Carty, born in 1861, daughter of Eli and Louisa (Allen) Mc- Carty. The father was a Union soldier, but, being wounded at Perryville, he returned home and accepted the position of enrolling officer of Reeve Township, a position which others feared to fill. While on duty he was killed, and his body siink in the White River by a body of men banded together to resist the draft, known as "Peace Democrats,1,1 but in reality rebels. To Mr. and Mrs. Hixon two children were born: Edith M. and Helen C. Mr. Hixon is a leading Republican and cast his first vote for Garfield. He takes an active interest in all enterprises tending to the common good, and is one of the prominent young business men of the town.

the undeveloped condition of the schools at that time. At the age of seventeen he took charge of his father's farm of 240 acres, and cared for his parents until their death. He then inherited the old homestead, about 180 acres of which are under cultivation. In 1853 he was married to Martha Hollingsworth, born in Daviess County in 1834, daughter of Samuel and Louisa (Lett) Hollingsworth. Mr. and Mrs. Hopkins became the parents of ten children: Louisa, Mary O., Samuel L., George E., Joseph H., Edna J., Eli F., Albert, Zelek and Laura (deceased). Both husband and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Hopkins is a stanch Republican and cast his first vote for Taylor. He has been a successful farmer, and is much respected as a neighbor and citizen. His parents were Esek and Mary (Aikman) Hopkins, born in Maryland and Pennsylvania in 1777 and 1779, respectively. They were married in Kentucky, in 1802, and in 1818 came to Daviess County, Ind., locating on the farm where Ezekiel now lives. The father died in 1859, and the mother in 1856.

PATRICK HOPKINS is a son of John and Julia (Skelly) Hopkins, who were born, raised and lived in Ireland, where the father farmed. Subject was born in Ireland, and when a mere boy came to the United States and began working in Philadelphia as lackey boy in a boarding house. Soon after he went to Maryland and carried the "grog kettle " for the men who worked on public works for about a year, and later drove a team for the same length of time. He removed to Ohio, where he worked at different occupations, and finally rose to salesman in a supply store on the canal. From there he went to Louisville, Ky., where he operated a steam engine slaughter house. Having purchased eighty acres of land in Daviess County, Ind., he came West and began to clear and make his land tillable. His farm now amoimts to 172 acres, and is in good condition. In 1852 he married Catharine Riley, who died about two years later, leaving one child, Julia A. In about four months he took for his second wife Elizabeth M. Raney, who bore him fifteen children: John, Mary, Phoebe, Thomas, Elizabeth, James, Edward, Henry, Maggie, Catherine, Francis, Julian, Peter, Rosa, and one who died. The family are Catholics. Mr. Hopkins is a strong Democrat,

WILLIAM H. KENDALL is a son of John R. and Nancy (Ellis) Kendall, who were born in Kentucky in 1805 and 1809, respectively. They came to Indiana about 1817, and about 1825 were married. They acquired a considerable share of this world's goods, owning a 400 acre farm well stocked. Three of their sons and two grandsons were in the late war. His wife died in 1880, but he is yet living at the ripe old age of eighty years. William H. was born in Daviess County in 1830. At the age of seventeen he began working for himself at pork packing during the winter season, and farmed during the summer. For about eight years he worked in this way, and then turned his entire attention to farming. In 1883 he sold his farm and moved to Montgomery, and purchased the Kendall House, and kept hotel for over two years. On account of illness in the family he then retired to a private residence in the village. In 1852 he was married to Margaret Waller, born in Washington in 1832. They became the parents of ten children: Laura G., Mary, Sarah F., Margaret, Jennie B., William, Edward, John K., Joseph F. and one unnamed. At the breaking out of the war Mr. Kendall enlisted in Company H, Fifty-eighth Indiana Infantry, serving his country faithfully for nearly four years. He took an active part in the battles of Shiloh, Stone River, Chickamauga, Mission Ridge and others. At Chickamauga. he was wounded severely five times, but so praiseworthy was his conduct at this battle that he was granted a thirty days furlough by Gen. Rosecrans as a recognition of his bravery. He served as sergeant for nearly a year, and was one of the pontoon corps who built the bridges for Sherman on his march to the sea. He returned home, and in 1870 was appointed assistant district marshal for taking the ninth census. In 188-4 he was elected justice of the peace by a large majority, and has given satisfaction in every position that he has been called upon to fill.

WILLIAM KENNEDY is of Irish descent, born in Philadelphia in 1837. In boyhood he attended the common schools, and on reaching man's estate received instruction in graded schools. For ten years thereafter he followed the profession of teaching during the winter seasons and tilled the soil during the summer. In 1867 he was married to Mary A. Beckett, born in 1849, daughter of William and Mary (Graves) Beckett. To the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy these three children were born: Anna, Charles and Francis. Mrs. Kennedy died in 1874, and four years later Mr. Kennedy took for his second wife Ida M. Smith, born in 1857. To them were born these children: Alice, Cleophas, James, Frederick, John and Paul. The family are Catholics. For four years Mr. Kennedy held the position of county treasurer ; which office he filled with honesty and to the entire satisfaction of the people. He is a leading Democrat, and cast his first vote for Douglas. In 1866 his father presented him with eighty acres of land. Since then he has increased his farm to 330 acres, about 220 of which are cultivated. Mrs. Kennedy's parents are James H. and Nancy J. (Myers) Smith.

JAMES KENNEDY. James and Margaret (McNally) Kennedy, parents of our subject, were natives of Ireland. Both came to America early in life, and after marriage located in Pennsylvania. Some years later they came to Daviess County, Ind., and located on the farm where James now lives ; the father being quite a land-holder at his death in 1879. He was for some time justice of the peace. James Kennedy was born in Daviess County in 1847. As his services were very much needed at home he received a limited education. At the death of his father he and his brother took charge of the home farm, he having inherited 160 acres. In 1881 he was married to Hannah McGrath, born in La Fayette, Ind., in 1854. She is one of eleven children born to Dennis and Mary (Shannahan) McGrath. The father was a laborer on the railroad and his wife kept boarders. Later they purchased a farm, where the father died in 1867. To Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy's marriage one child has been born, named Hilda. Both husband and wife are members of the Catholic Church. Mr. Kennedy is a Democrat and a successful farmer.

JOHN MATTINGLY was born in Daviess County, Ind., in 1S26, and is a son of Henry and J. (Kidwell) Mattingly, the former born in 1804 and the latter in 1794, in Kentucky. They grew to maturity in their native State. After their marriage they came to Daviess County and followed the lives of farmers. Both parents died in 1871. John received a limited education, owing to the undeveloped condition of the schools at that time, and at the age of twenty-two began to make his own way in the world. After living on rented farms for about three years he purchased 145 acres of timber land, which he has since increased to 1S5 acres. In 1853 he was married to Mary A. Gootee, born in 1825. daughter of Silas and Barbara (Walker) Gootee. Her father was a native of Maryland and her mother of Kentucky. They were married in the mother's native State, and came to Indiana where the father farmed. Mr. and Mrs. Mattingly became the parents of five children: James M., Harriet A., Silas H, Albert S. and William A. The family are Catholics, and Mr. Mattingly is a Democrat and cast his first vote for Lewis Cass, of Michigan.

GEOEGE McATEE is a son of Daniel McAtee, who was born in Kentucky in 1794. In 1818 he wedded our subject's mother, who was born in 1799. The day after their marriage they moved to Missouri, where they lived about eight years. They then came to Daviess County, Ind., where they spent the remainder of their days. The father was a farmer, and also worked at the millwright and carpenter's trade. He died in 1875 and the mother four years later. George was born in 1820 in Missouri. He attended the subscription schools, and after attaining his majority began to do for himself. In 1845 he led to the hymeneal altar Margaret Mattingly, born in 1821. She died in 1852, leaving these three children: Ann S., William E. and James L. Two years later Mr. McAtee married Martha M. Brewer, born in Kentucky in 1833. Her parents, James and Teressa L. (Sims) Brewer, were born in Maryland and Kentucky. To Mr. and Mrs. McAtee were born these children: Francis, Margaret, John, Susan, Clora, Thomas, Liza, Josephine, Joseph, July, Bridget and Martha. Subject is a stanch Democrat and cast his first vote for James K. Polk. He owns 180 acres of land, 150 of which are under cultivation.

ALFBED H. McBKIAE, farmer, is a son of David and Martha (Chambers) McBriar. They were born in Virginia in 1819 and 1833, respectively, and were married in their native State, where they lived a few years and then moved to Knox County, Ohio. By profession the father is a surgeon and dentist.

About 1869 he took up his residence in Columbus, Ohio, where he still lives, doing a good business. Our subject was born in Ohio County, W. Va. His educational advantages were of the very best kind, having graduated at the Columbus High School in 1875. He also took a course of instruction at Notre Dame, and in 1880 graduated from the Columbus Commercial College. He then entered a wholesale house as assistant book-keeper, and later was traveling salesman for Marvell & Co. He then became traveling agent for the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Eailroad. In 1883, having traveled over twenty-six States, he decided to live a more settled life, consequently in June of that year he married Mollie Haynes, born in 1857. She is a daughter of Kobert P. and Elizabeth (Darst) Haynes. Her father was born in 1821 in Virginia. He has held numerous honorable positions, and was one of the trustees of Purdue University, secretary of the state house building and member of the State Legislature. Her mother was a native of Ohio, born in 1818. They are now living in Kansas. Mr. and Mrs. McBriar have one child, Edna Lee. Mr. McBriar is a Democrat, and his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

CAPT. GREEN McDONALD, son of Francis and Asenath (Allen) McDonald, was born in Daviess County, Ind., in 1829. After attaining his majority he took charge of the home farm, caring for his parents until their death. In 1853 he married Maria J. Sparks, born in 1834, daughter of Daniel and Hannah (Sears) Sparks. She is a worthy member of the Christian Church. In 1861 Mr. McDonald enlisted in Company C, Sixth Indiana Infantry. After three months1 service he returned home and helped organize Company H, Fifty-eighth Indiana Infantry, and as first lieutenant went out with it. He was soon promoted to captain and held that position till the close of the war. He is a Eepublican in politics and cast his first vote for Scott. He owns 160 acres of land, eighty acres of which was inherited from the estate. His father and mother were born in Kentucky and Ohio, respectively, the former born in 1806 and the latter in 1810. The father came with his parents to Indiana and settled on the farm where Green now lives. A few months before his death, which occurred in 1847, he was elected to the office of justice of the peace. The mother died in 1882.

SAMUEL McKNIGHT is a native of Daviess County, Ind.T where he was born in 1838. His parents were James and Eosann (Ginn) McKnight, born in Kentucky in 1796 and 1802 respectively. They were married and lived in Kentucky until 1833, when they came to Indiana, locating in the woods of Daviess County. The father died in 1866 and the mother in 1877. Samuel received the education and raising of the average farmer's boy. At the age of twenty he began working for himself among the farmers in the neighborhood, continuing to earn his living in this way for six years. He then began farming on the home place, and after buying out the other heirs to the property, he became sole proprietor. He is the owner of 146 acres and is well to do financially. In 1866 he married Malinda Dickerson, born in 1837, daughter of Zadock and Elizabeth (Cole) Dickerson, born in Maryland and Kentucky in 1795 and 1793 and died in 1877 and 1842, respectively. Mr. and Mrs. McKnight became the parents of three children: Laura B., Suda (deceased) and Lizzie (deceased). Both husband and wife are members of the Christian Church, and Mr. McKnight is a Kepublican in politics. He enlisted in Company I, Twenty-fourth Indiana Infantry, in 1861, and was a faithful and courageous soldier while in the service. After serving eleven months he was discharged on account of disability. He has prospered well as a farmer and is one of the first men of the county.

LA WHENCE C. MEEHAN is a son of Thomas and Mary (Wierman) Meehan. The father was of Irish descent born in Pennsylvania, the mother of German descent born in Virginia. They were married in Virginia, where they lived until 1841, when they came to Indiana and kept boarding house near New Albany. Later they purchased eighty acres in Daviess County, Ind., and lived there one year, when the father died. The mother's death occurred in 1880. Lawrence C. was born in 1834. in Pennsylvania. He received but very little schooling, but being very quick to learn, he obtained a fair education. He lived with his parents and took care of them as long as they lived. In early life he worked on a flat-boat, plying between Mt. Pleasant and New Orleans, and during the winter worked in a pork packing establishment. In 1864 he enlisted in Company F, Thirteenth

Indiana Infantry, and served his country faithfully for about six months. He is a Democrat and a member of the Catholic Church, and has succeeded well in his financial undertakings.

ABEL T. MOKGAN is a son born to the marriage of Jesse Morgan and Elizabeth Cane, who were born in Pennsylvania in 1783 and 1788, respectively. The father was bound as apprentice to a blacksmith at Pittsburgh, but in a short time ran away to Kentucky. There he married and in 1819 came to Daviess County, Ind., and settled on the farm where Abel now lives. In 1833 he built him the finest brick house in the township, which is still in good preservation. He died in 1858 and his wife in 1860. Abel T. was born in Indiana in 1815. He obtained a somewhat limited education at the old time subscription schools, and at the age of eighteen began flat-boating, working at that in the spring and farming in summer time. He followed the river for twenty-three years and became pilot of a steamboat. In 1852 he was married to Rispha Sutten, born in 1834, daughter of Roland B. and Agnes (Smart) Sutten. Ten children were born to their union: Emily A., Elizabeth, John D., Lewis C, Eliza E., Lillie M., James A., Ada F., Rebecca A. and one unnamed. Mr. Morgan was constable of Barr Township for six years. He is a Democrat and is well to do financially, owning at one time 600 acres of land, but giving all to his children except about 120 acres.

JOHN D. MORGAN is the eldest son of Abel T. and Rispha (Sutten) Morgan. He was born in 1858 in the county where he now resides. In boyhood he acquired a good practical education in the common schools. At the age of twenty he began the battle of life for himself, and for about seven years traded in all kinds of stock. Since that time he has given his entire time and attention to farming. He has a nice farm of 107 acres in one of the best locations in the township. Besides this his wife owns eighty acres. In 1885 he led to the hymeneal altar Lizzie Honey, born in Barr Township in 1867. She is a daughter of John and Sarah A. ( Spillman ) Honey, both of whom were natives of Indiana, born in 1826 and 1842, respectively. They were married in 1865, and located in Daviess County, where both died, the father in 1882, and the mother in 1874. Mr. Morgan is one of the rising Democrats of the township, and cast his first vote for Hancock. He is an energetic young business man, and is respected by all who know him.

EDWARD MORRISON is a son born to the marriage of Michael Morrison and Mary Gibbons, who were born in the Emerald Isle, the father in 1798. They lived in their native land until 1832, when they embarked for America and landed in Canada, where they lived about twelve years, becoming proprietors of 400 acres of land. The father sold out and removed to Iowa, where he purchased a still larger tract of land, and settled his children around him. "While a resident in Canada he was inspector of hotels and liquor establishments. He died in 1878. The mother's death occurred before leaving Canada. Edward was born in Ireland in 1829. His educational advantages were limited, and at the age of fifteen he began working for himself. He left home and crossed into Ohio, and later came to Lafayette, where he worked for a short period at odd jobs, and then learned the wagon and carriagemaker's trade. He then repaired to Pittsburg, Ind., and began working at his trade, with John Campbell as partner. He sold out and took a trip to St. Louis, Evansville, and Louisville, and finally settled at Terre Haute. In 1850 he went to California, and after remaining there two years he returned via Aspinwall, Jamaica, and New York, and after many hardships, sickness, and shipwreck, reached home in safety. He owns 244 acres of very fertile land. In 1853 he married Mary Meehan, born in 1839 in Pennsylvania. They have one child, Thomas J. The family are members of the Catholic Church, and he is a Democrat in politics.

ABSALOM MYERS is a son of Absalom and Anne (Sherman) Myers. The father was born in Pennsylvania during the Revolution, and when only nine months old was deprived of his father, who fell in that war. From infancy he was raised to manhood by a farmer living in Pennsylvania. When twenty-four years old he married our subject's mother, by whom he had eight children. After living in Pennsylvania about twenty years he moved to Ohio, and died there in 1832. The mother lived till about 1875. Subject was born in Stark County, Ohio, in 1824. His services were very much needed at home in his boyhood days, consequently his educational advantages were limited. At the age of seventeen he began to support himself, and after working several years at various occupations, was elected constable, which position he held for two years. He then gave his attention to well-digging, and when twenty-eight years old took up the carpenter's trade, and since has made that his occupation. In 1861 he disposed of his property in Ohio and came to Daviess County, Ind., and shortly after purchased his present farm. In In 1848 he was married to Nancy Gorsuch, born in Ohio in 1828, daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth (Willard) Gorsuch. They became the parents of three children: Franklin A., Anne E. and Grant Franklin is one of the three partners of the Washington Gazette. Mr. Myers is a Republican, and was ordained a minister of the United Brethren Church, his wife being a member.

GEORGE E. NORRIS, one of the prominent farmers of Daviess County, Ind., is a native of the county where he now resides, born in 1831. His parents, John D. and Elizabeth (Hays) Norris, were natives of Kentucky and Maryland, respectively, both born about 1808. They were married about 1829 in Daviess County, where they followed the lives of farmers. The mother died in 1854, and the father in 1880. Our subject's boyhood days were spent on the farm and in attending the district schools. At the age of twenty-one he began farming for himself on a rented place, continuing about fifteen years. He then purchased seventy-eight acres of land, and since that time he and his two boys have increased their farm to 340 acres. Besides this he owns a saw-mill and some very valuable machinery. In 1851 he was married to Julia A. Kidwell, born in Kentucky in 1836, daughter of Thomas and Theresa (Arvin) Kidwell. They became the parents of these children: John, James, Martha, Sarah, Theresa, Francis, Susan, Louis, George, Thomas, Mary, and an infant The family are Catholic, and Mr. Norris is a Democrat, and cast his first vote for Buchanan.

FATHER T. O'DONAGHUE, pastor of St. Mary's Church, is a son of James and Mary (Tooney) O'Donaghue, who were born in Cork County, Ireland. Some time after their marriage they came to New York City, where they lived about two years, and then moved to Cincinnati, Ohio. In 1840 they came to Da- viess County., Ind., where they spent the remainder of their days in agricultural pursuits. They were the parents of ten children: Johanna, Mary, Margaret (deceased), Amelia, John (deceased), Timothy, James, Dennis, Michael (deceased) and Nora. Johanna, Mary and Nora belong to the sisterhood of the Benedictine order, Amelia to the Sisters of Providence, and Dennis is pastor of the St. Patrick's Church at Indianapolis. All the family are members of the Catholic Church. The father's death occurred in 1874. The mother is yet living, at the age of seventy-five, and resides with our subject, who was born in Daviess County in 1844. He attended the common schools, and also the college at Bardstown, Ky., for three years, and eventually finished his course at St. Meinrad's College in Spencer County, Ind., graduating in 1878. He then took charge of the church at Montezuma, Ind., for two years, and then came to St. Mary's, where he has remained ever since.

JAMES O'DONAGHUE may be mentioned as one of the prominent farmers of Daviess County, Ind. He is a son of James and Mary (Tooney) O'Donaghue, and was born in 1848. He received the advantage of the common schools, and when twentyseven years old, his father having died, he took charge of the home farm of 235 acres, which he has farmed successfully ever since. In 1874 he was married to Bridget Bradley, a native of Daviess County, born about 1855, daughter of Francis and Ann (Kelley) Bradley. Mr. and Mrs. O'Donaghue are the parents of these six children: Mary, Anna, Hannah, James, Francis and Timothy. The family are members of the Catholic Church. Our subject is a stanch Democrat, and cast his first vote for Greeley. He owns one of the best farms in the township, and is one who takes an active interest in all that concerns the welfare of the community.

ALBERT PERKINS (deceased) was a son of Alfred and Rebecca (Ellis) Perkins, and was born in Daviess County, Ind., in 1828. The parents were natives of Kentucky, where they married and lived until their removal to this county. The mother's death occurred in 1873, and the father's some years later. Subject received poor educational advantages, but on reaching manhood he began reading and traveling, thereby becoming a well- informed man. In 1851 he took a trip across the desert of America to California, and after about three years returned and purchased 160 acres of land, and began tilling the soil. By his industry he increased his farm to 230 acres, and furnished it with good buildings. In 1856 he married Hannah L., daughter of James and Mary (Waller) Honey, born in 1829. Her parents were natives of Kentucky. The father died in 1847, but the mother lived several years afterward. Mr. and Mrs. Perkins became the parents of eight children: Peter T., Mary E., Sarah J., Ulysses G., James, Millard, George W. and Albert M. Mr. Perkins was a stanch Republican, and cast his first vote for Scott. The last nine years of his life was a period of constant suffering. He died in 1883, after a useful and well spent life. His widow and her two sons, Ulysses and James, have since taken charge of the farm.

JOHN W. PERKINS, hardware merchant at Montgomery, Ind., was born in the county where he now resides, in 1830. His educational advantages were limited, and he assisted his father on the farm until twenty years of age, when he married Kittie M. Dickerson, born in 1832, daughter of Zadok and Elizabeth (Cole) Dickerson. To Mr. and Mrs. Perkins ten children were bora: Joseph P., Martha E., Mary L., Zadok, John W., Isaac D., David M., Robert, Lizzie and Abram C. In 1854 Mr. Perkins purchased his first eighty acres of land, and after farming it several years sold out and rented land until 1874, when he purchased the farm pre-empted by his grandfather, where he resided until 1882. He then moved to Montgomery and engaged in the hotel business for one year. Since that time he has been proprietor of the "Perkins Hardware Store." He has prospered in his business enterprises, and now owns a good store, dwellinghouse and three lots. In 1862 he enlisted in Company E, Twenty-seventh Indiana Infantry, and fought bravely for the Union until he was honorably discharged in 1863. His parents, John and Eleanor (Jones) Perkins, were born in Bourbon County, Ky., the father in 1790 and the mother in 1796. They came to Davies County, Ind., when it was an almost unbroken wilderness. Here the father farmed in summer and operated a distillery in winter. His death occurred in 1872 and the mother's in 1871.

JUDSON PUKCELL is a son of Jesse and Martha (Small) Purcell, natives of this county. The father, who was born in 1823, was a farmer, and died in 1885, and the mother in 1866. Judson's grandfather, Purcell, came to Daviess County in 1808, and located in Washington Township, where the old fort stood, which he helped to build. He lived to be over ninety-five years old. Judson was born in 1852, and was educated in the common schools. When twenty-one years old he began the battle of life for himself, and worked at various occupations for a number of years. In 1874 he was married to Elizabeth Davis, born in 1852, daughter of Milton and Mary (Kobinson) Davis. Mr. and Mrs. Purcell have six children: William D., Mary J., Anna B., Maria, Sarah and Jesse. Mrs. Purcell is a member of the Christian Church, and her husband is a stanch Republican, and cast his first vote for Hayes. By hard work and good management they own 118 acres of very good land.

JEREMIAH RANET. James Raney, the father of our subject, was born in Kentucky in 1809. When nine years old he came with his parents to Martin County, Ind., where he grew to manhood, and lived for nearly sixty-four years on the same farm. He was a farmer, and owned at one time 1,000 acres of land. He married Mary Holland, born in Ireland in 1820. He died in 1882. Subject was born in Martin County in 1813, and aided his father on the farm until twenty-seven years old. In 1870 he led to the hymeneal altar Elizabeth A., daughter of Joseph and Rose Anne ^Hayden) Arvin. She was born in 1847, and bore her husband six children: James, Helen, Mary, Charles, Anne and Margaret. All the family are Catholics, and Mr. Raney is a stanch Democrat. He received eighty acres of land from his father, and purchased forty more, but soon after sold out, and purchased 147 acres in this county, on which he built a residence. His house caught fire and was consumed shortly after, and after building another house he found he was in debt $1,900. By industry and good management he has increased his farm to 213 acres. He keeps a strict account of all receipts and expenditures, and at the end of each year takes an invoice of all stock, implements, growing grain, etc.