Washington Township

Washington Township

Washington Township is bounded on the north by Middle and Lincoln townships, on the east by Marion County, on the south by Guilford and Liberty townships, and on the west by Center. White Lick runs across the west side of this township, and the East Fork touches the southeast corner. Along White Lick the land is rolling and fertile; the central and eastern portion of the township is very level, but not swampy. The prevailing timber was beech and hickory, and the soil is mostly clay, and better adapted to the grasses than to the production of grain.

Early History

The first settlement in Washington Township was made in the northeast corner, near Shiloh Church, by Robert Wilson, Gideon Wilson and Elish Rise, in the year 1822. The next year Daniel Trver, Aaron Homan, the Griggses, Joseph Fausett and others, came into the same neighborhood and in the same year, 1823, James Dunn, John Givens, Abner Dunn^ - for whom Abner's Creek, was named - and some others, settled on the west side of the township on Abner's Creek. James Dunn settled on the Isham Thompson place, on the Rockville road. Among those who came into the township within the next few years were David Cox, Alex. McCammock, Enoch Barlow and his sons Harvey and Harri¬ son, the Thornberrys, Huron s, Huffords and Gossetts.

This township was one of the four which was organized at the same time the county was, and received its name in honor of the " Father of his Country," at the suggestion of Aaron Homan, who 4 was the first J ustice of the Peace in the township, and married the j (783)

The first church organized in Washington Township was at the house of Robert Wilson, in 1823. This is now the Shiloh Church, and it was the first Methodist Episcopal church organization in the i county, and the fourth one of any denomination. There are now in Washington Township three Methodist Episcopal churches - Shiloh and Wesley and Barlett's chapels - ana two Regular | Baptist - Abner's Creek and Salem. The Indianapolis &St. Louis Railroad passes nearly through the center of the township, and the only postoffice in it is at the village of Avon, a station on this rail¬ road.

Fir8T Election

The first general election was held Aug. 7, 1826, at the house of ! Daniel C. Hults, when eleven persons voted. These are recorded I on the poll-book as Sidney William?, Daniel C. Hults, James Merit, Joseph Runyon, Isaac Williamson, Dauiel B. Tryer, James Higginbotham, Joseph Philips, William S. Merrill, Robert Wilson and John Triggs. For Congressman, Thomas H. Blake received j nine votes, and Ratliff Boon, two; for Senator, Calvin Fletcher I received nine and J. F. Polk, two; for Representative, Isaiah Drury received eight and John Sims, three; for Sheriff, Robert Cooper received eleven; and for Coroner, William S. Merrill received two.

Political

Politically Washington was always Whig, and since the death of that party, Republican. It never gave a Democratic majority except in 1832, which was before the name Whig was used by the followers of Henry Clay. Following is the vote for President at j each election :

Official

| We give here a list of those who have been chosen Justices, Constables, etc., in Washington Township, together with the years | i in which they were elected:

! Barney Gossett, 1872; Moses Williams, 1874; Barney Gossett and j George Guthrie, 1876; William R. Barker, 1878; Barney Gossett ! and William C. Hadley, 1880; Samuel Hollingsworth, 1882; George j j P. Wilson and Seth T. Huron, 1884. !

! H. Gilbert and Richard Triggs, 1844; Commodore P. Williams and Eli Watson, 1845; Commodore P. Williams and Shadrach | Morris, 1846; Commodore P. Williams and Gilbert Palmer, 1848;

Commodore P. Williams and Shadrach Morris, 1849; Commodore j P. Williams and John W. Jordan, 1851-'52; James Y. McLain and Henry Johnson, 1853; Samuel Barker and Joseph W. Jourdain,

I 1854; Samuel Barker, 1855; Commodore P. Williams and Samuel j Barker, 1856; David Hufford and William Brittain, 1857; Gran- ; ville Tolbert and William J. Merritt, 1858; W. R. Barker anAE.

J. Caywood, 1859; William J. Merritt and William Barker, 1860; Barkley Moore and William Gilliland, 1861; J. S. Wamsler and William Gossett, 1862; James T. Huron and R. Johnson, 1863;

H. King, 1865; John C. Ferree and Hiram Hadley, 1866; Will- iam Gilliland and John Ferree, 1867; J. H. King and C.P. Will- | i iams, 1868; M. B. Applegate and Berryman Hooten, 1869; Henry j i Fitch and John W. McClain, 1870; P. H. Newland and Michael I

Statistics Biographical

Clark Blair , County Commissioner of Hendricks County, Ind., was born near Stilesville, this county, March 25, 1836, a son of Lindsey and Rachel M. (Hodson) Blair. His father is one of the pioneers of this county, having come from North Carolina with his father, Solomon Blair, in 1820. His mother also came at a very early date with her father, Jesse Hodson, settling near Amo, in Clay Township. Our subject was reared near and in Plainfield and received most of his education in the schools of that place. 'His father died when he was seventeen years old, and he being the eld¬ est son was obliged to superintend the farm. Previous to his father's death he clerked two years in the drug store of Craighead & Brown¬ ing, in Indianapolis, Ind., after which, in the fall of 1852, he entered the Plainfield Academy, remaining there till his father died. Jan. 31, 1858, he was married to Marian Sanders, daughter of Benjamin and Lucinda Sanders, of Washington Township, who were among the first families of the county. His wife died in April, 1872, leav¬ ing four children - Benjamin L., traveling salesman fora wholesale house in San Francisco, Cal. ; Willet B., a farmer in Washington Township; Eddie E. and Flora Alice, still at home. He was again married, in May, 1873, to Miss Sarah M. Cox, of Guilfprd Town¬ ship, and to them have been born five children - Effie May, George I Porter, Mary E., Arthur A. and lues S. After his first marriage he left his home and settled on a farm in Washington Township, on which he lived but a shprt time, when he purchased the farm adjoining, where he has since followed agricultural pursuits. In October, 1876, he wa9 elected a Trustee of Washington Township, which office he held by re-election two terms. In the fall of 1880 hewas elected one of the Commissioners of this county and was i re-elected to serve another term. Mr. Blair is a Master Mason and has served as Secretary of Bridgeport Lodge, No. 162, A. F. & A. M., two years. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal ! church, of which he has been Steward and Class-Leader a number of years. His wife is a member of the society of Friends.

Henry Bradford , one of the most prominent farmers of Washi ington Township, is a native of Hardy County, Ya., born Oct. 19, 1817, a son of George W. and Elizabeth Bradford, also natives of Virginia. Reared on a farm in his native county he had but limited educational advantages. In 1838 he immigrated to Clinton County, Ohio, where for some time he worked as a* farm hand. Jan. 6, 1842, he married Sarah Hawkins, born Dec. 29, 1823, daughter of Jehu and Susannah Hawkins, the former a native of South Carolina and the latter of Ohio. About 1850 Mr. Bradford left Clinton County and moved to Hendricks County, Ind., locating in Washington Township, where he now owns a tine farm of 160 acres, all under cultivation. Commencing lifo in limited circumstances he has by his industry and strict integrity accumulated a competency and is now one of the most prosperous citizens of the township. To Mr. and Mrs. Bradford have been born nine children - Susanna, born Oct. 8, 1842; Elizabeth A., born July 29, 1844, died Aug. 15, j 1865; Charity A., born June 24, 1847, died Sept. 7, 1847; Mary J., born Oct. 3, 1848, died Jnly 29, 1877; Layton M., born Oct. 22, 1851; Isaac H., born Jan. 30, 1854; Eli J., born Feb. 26,1856, died May 1, 1873; Jehu born Dec. 24, 1858; John H., born April 10, 1864. In politics Mr. Bradford is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the society of Friends.

County Galway, Ireland, born in July, 1843, a son of Thomas and Mary Casserly. In 1850 his father came to the United States and located in Hendricks County, Ind., and in the spring of 1851, the mother with her two sons, John and Michael, followed him to this country. They settled in Washington Township and became prominently identified with its interests. John Casserly was reared in Washington Township and since reaching manhood has been numbered among the most enterprising and successful agri¬ culturists of the county. His fine farm of 100 acres shows the result of thrift and good management, and his farm buildings are among the best in the township. Mr. Casserly was married in June, 1861, to Ellen. Mooney, daughter of Michael Mooney. Eleven children have been born to them, but nine of whom are living - Michael, John, Mary, Thomas, Patrick, Martin, Lobina, Ellen and Timothy. Mr. Casserly and his family are members of the Catholic church.

Zimri W. Cox was born Nov. 6, 1835, in Hendricks County, Ind., a son of David F. and Elizabeth Cox. He was reared and educated in this county, remaining with his parents till manhood.

In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company 1, Sixty-third Indiana Infantry, and was assigned to the Army of the Cumberland. He participated in many hotly contested battles, some of the more important being Buzzard's Roost, Resaca, seige of Atlanta, Nash¬ ville, Franklin and Spring Hill. He was discharged in July, 1865, and since his return home has given his attention to agri¬ cultural pursuits. He now owns a good farm of seventy-one and a half acres in Washington Township. He has served his town¬ ship four years as Assessor. Mr. Cox was married April 4, 1872, to Elizabeth R. Wyer, daughter of Philip Wyer. To them have been born three children - David F., Byron N. and Charles E.

Willis M . Davis, farmer, Washington Township, is a native of Hendricks County, Ind., born Jan. 27, 1841, a son of James and Ann Davis, natives of Kentucky and early settlers of Hendricks County. The mother died in Washington Township in 1863, and ! the father in 1880. Six of their nine children are living - Sarah, Lydia, Josephine, Thornton S., John H., and Willis M. Our sub¬ ject was reared a farmer, receiving a common-school education.

Michael A. Euliss is a native of North Carolina, born in Ala¬ mance County, August, 1841, a sou of William and Nellie Enliss. He was reared in his native county, where he received but limited educational advantages. In 1870 he came to Hen¬ dricks County, Ind., and in 1875 bought the farm where he has since lived, which contains 100 acres of gopd land, with a pleasant residence and good farm buildings. He was married Feb. 15, 1875, to Mollie Hornaday, daughter of Isaiah and Elvira Hornaday. They have a family of four children - Evert I., Thomas V., Vir¬ ginia D. and Carl. Mr. Euliss is a member of Brownsburg Lodge, F. & A. M. He and his wife are members of the Christian church. In politics he is a Republican.

Jesse Fausset , a prominent pioneer of Washington Township, was born in West Virginia, April 21, 1819, a son of Charles and Jemima (Reed) Fausset, the former a native of Pennsylvania and j the latter of Virginia. In 1819 his parents moved to Franklin County, Ind., where he was reared and educated. His mother died Oct. 1, 1845, and his father Nov. 21, 1878. They had a family of eight children - Robert, Jesse, Benjamin, Ilebecca, Alpheus, Phoebe A., Isaac and Jacob. The two latter are deceased. Jesse Fausset was married Feb. 6, 1844, to Margaret J. Freeland, daughter of Thomas Freeland, of Franklin County. To them were born three children - Eliza J., born Jan. 23, 1845; Charlotte E., July 11, 1847, died May 7, 1860, and Francis N., born Aug. 26, 1851. Sept. 21, 1856, Jesse Fausset married Louisa Holton, daughter of Isaac Holton. His wife died Jan. 19,1863, leaving one child - Jemima L., born Jan. 14, 1861. Oct. 24, 1867, he married Elizabeth VanAusdall, daughter of Silas Van Ausdall, of Butler County, Ohio. They have had three children - Charles S., born Dec. 8, 1869; James O., born Nov. 21, 1872, died April 7, 1873, and Rebecca A., born Jan. 9. 1874, died Jan. 26, 1877. |

George A. Gibbs, a pioneer of Washington Township, is a native of North Carolina, born Aug. 2, 1822, a son of Thomas and ' Tabitha Gibbs, natives of Virginia. In 1826 his parents moved to Morgan County, Ind., and in 1830 to Hendricks County, and settled in Washington Township, where they both died. George A. is the only surviving member of a family of three children. He was reared and educated in this county, and since attaining his majority has engaged in agricultural pursuits. He is a self-made man. Beginning life in limited circumstances he has accumulated a good property, now owning 270 acres of improved land. He was married Sept. 20, 1842, to Louisa Hubbard, and to them have been born eleven children - Henry H., Melvin C., Andrew J., Eliza J., Mary E., Thomas A., William S., John H., Rosetta F., Lydia J. and Dollie A. In politics Mr. Gibbs is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. He is a liberal supporter of his church and of all interests of benefit to his county.

Henry H Gibbs is a native of Washington Township, Hendricks Co., Ind., born Feb. 12, 1845, the eldest son of George A. and Louisa (Hubbard) Gibbs. He was reared in his native township, where he had but limited educational advantages. In August, 1863, he enlisted in the war of the Rebellion, and served six months, principally in Tennessee and Kentucky. His vocation through life has been agriculture, at which he has been mainly successful. In 1880 he located on his present farm where he owns 160 acres of valuable land. Mr. Gibbs was married Jan. 16, 1868, to Elizabeth Van Trese. To them have been born nine children - Ella H., Charles E., Effie M., George G., William C., Melvin C., Minnie, Ada and Grace. In politics Mr. Gibbs is a Republi¬ can. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

John W. Gladden was born in Marion County, Ind., March 1, 1828, a son of William and Eve (Negley) Gladden. William Glad¬ den was a native of Pennsylvania, and when a child accompanied his parents to Maryland, where he was reared. When he was twenty-two years of age he came West and for thee years taught school in Butler County, Ohio. He then removed to Marion County, Ind., and entered 400 acres of land, which he improved, eilduring all the hardships of pioneer life. After a life of usefulness he died Jan. 29, 1884, his wife surviving him but one day. They were buried in the same grave in Shiloh Methodist Church Ceme- tery, in this township. Of ten children born to them, nine grew I to maturity, and six are still living - William N., John W., Alfred H., George L., Hannah O. and David F. Mr. Gladden was rec¬ ognized as one of the best mathematicians of Indiana, and was often called on to solve knotty problems. John W. Gladden was j reared in his native county. In 1856 he moved to Hendricks Oounty, and settled in Washington Township where he has 6ince j been successfully engaged in farming and dairying. He owns I 142 acres of land in Hendricks County, and thirty-seven acres in Marion County. Mr. Gladden was married Jan. 25, 1849, to Mary McCalmert, daughter of Wilson and Lydia McOalmert They have had four children - Jane M., born Jyne 14, 1852; Alice C.,

I father^ death the mother married John Milton, by whom she had | one child - John F. They endured many hardships and privations incident to pioneer life, but were industrious, energetic citizens, and respected by all who knew them. Barney was reared in his native county, remaining with his mother till manhood. When the civil war broke out he enlisted in defense of the Union, in Sep¬ tember, 1861, in Company I, Seventh Indiana Infantry, and was assigned to the Army of the Potomac. He participated in many j severe engagements, some of the more important being Antietam,

I Gettysburg, Wilderness, Petersburg, second Bull Run, Winches- | ter, Fredericksburg and Greenbriar. He was honorably discharged in September, 1864. After his return home he engaged in agri- I cultural pursuits, and now has a fine farm of 190 acres. He was married in June, 1865, to Mary A. Richards, a native of Hen- | dricks Oounty, born November, 1841, daughter of Joseph and Abigail Richards, natives of Ohio, who settled in this county in 1838. They have two children - Ella E., born Feb. 28, 1869, and I John B.j Feb. 22, 1877. Mr. and Mrs. Gossett are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Gossett has served Wash- \

Enos Hadley, an influential and successful farmer and stock- j raiser of Washington Township, is a native of Hendricks County, born near Plainfield, June 10, 1825, a son of Jonathan and Ara ! Hadley. His parents came to Hendricks County in the fall of 1823, and entered eighty acres of Government land, which they began to improve and make a home. They were pfominent among the early settlers of the county, earnest members of the Christian church, and honored members of society. Their family consisted of nine children, but four of whom are living - Enos, Harlan, Will¬ iam C. and John V. Enos Hadley was reared on a frontier farm and was early inured to the hardships of the life of a pioneer. He received a fair education for the early days, and taught several terms. Since leaving home he has been successful in his pursuits and now has a fine farm of 230 acres where he has lived since. 1850.

He was married Nov. 14, 1850, to Susan Smith, a daughter of James and Hannah Smith, early settlers of Hendricks County, from Kentucky. To them have been born nine children - Jona¬ than S., Eliza E., James A., Horace E., Cassius C., Clara B., Robert S., Enos W. and Lester B.; the latter is deceased. Mr. Hadley has ^erved as Trustee of Washington Township three terms, and as Commissioner of Hendricks County one term. In politics he is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Christian church.

Harlan Hadley is a native of Hendricks County, Ind., born in ] Guilford Township, Oct. 14, 1829, a son of Jonathan and Ara Had- j ley. He was married June 6, 1852, to Rebecca Oursler, and to them were born four children - George W., Mary C., Alice and Ada (deceased). Mrs. Hadley died July 23, 1859, and Oct. 9, 1860, Mr. Hadley married Mary A. Ross, who died July 26, 1875, leaving three children - Cora E., William and Charles. Nov. 1, 1877, he married Mrs. Nancy (McCown) Talbott. They have two children - John M. and Harlan C. Mr. Hadley is a man of fine business ability and has accumulated a good property. He lias a line farm of 800 acres under cultivation, and is one of the most extensive stock-raisers and dealers in Hendricks County. He also conducts a profitable livery business in Plainfield, of which place !

I he is one of the most substantial and respected citizens. Mr. Had¬ ley is a member of Lodge No. 287, F. & A. M. In politics he is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Christian church.

Albert A. Hollingsworth is a native of Hendricks County, Ind., born Dec. 7, 1844, a son of Mersey N. and Mary A. Hollings¬ worth, his father a native of Ohio and his mother of Pennsylvania. There were twelve children in his father's family, nine of whom are living - Asbury S., Albert A., John T., Samuel J., Mersey M., Maria L., Mary E., Sally A. and Emily J. Albert A. Hollings worth was reared and' educated in his native township. In July, 1862, he enlisted in the Fifty-fourth Indiana Infantry for three months, and was discharged the following September. In Febru¬ ary, 1865, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Forty-eighth Indi¬ ana Infantry, and served till the close of the war. He was assigned duty at Columbia and Pulaski, Tenn. After his return home he gave his attention to agricultural pursuits, at which he has been successful. In 1876 he located on his present farm, where he owns 155 acres of valuable land, all under cultivation. April 13, 1869, he married Fidelia B. C. Towles, daughter of Rob¬ ert and Harriet A. Towles. To them have been born six children - Harriet A., Ira A., Albert A., Nettie M., and an infant de¬ ceased. Mr. and Mrs. Hollingsworth are members of the Baptist church at Plainfield.

Enos Huron , a prominent farmer of Washington Township, is a native of Warren Comity, Ohio, born Sept. 5, 1832, a son of Seth and Matilda (Ross) Huron. When he was an infant^ his parents moved to Hendricks County, Ind., and here he was reared and ed¬ ucated, attending the early subscription schools. Since attaining manhood he has devoted his attention to agricultural pursuits, and now owns 105 acres of valuable land, and his improvements are among the best in the township. He was married in November, 1857, to Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas Forkner. To them have been born eight children, five of whom are living - Louisa J., Rosella, Alva W., Nancy M. and Sarah G. Lewis B., Mary A. and an infant are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Huron have been prom¬ inently identified with the Methodist Episcopal church many years. He is a liberal supporter of all interests of benefit to his church, or that tend toward the welfare of his county.

Seth Huron , deceased, was bom in. Warren County, Ohio, May 10, 1803, and died in Hendricks County, Ind., iu July, 1876. He was a son of Othniel and Bethiah Huron. He remained with his parents till manhood, in his native county, where he was married to Matilda Ross. To them were born nine children - MaryE., Martha J., Enos, Othniel, Eli, Seth J., Louisa, Ann and James T.;

H18T0Ry Of Hendricks County

Mr. Huron married Mary McLane, daughter of James McLane, an early settler of Hendricks County. They had a family of six children, five of whom are living - Sarah D.. Nancy M., William B., Hezekiah H. and Phoebe L. In 1832 Mr. Huron moved to Hendricks County, Ind., and settled in Washington Township, | where he passed the rest of his life. He was a prominent citizen of the township, and served twenty-seven years as Justice of the Peace. He was a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal church, as is also Mrs. Huron. She resides on the old homestead, which contains eighty acres of valuable land, situated on the Rock¬ ville road.

Seth T. Huron is a native of Hendricks County, Ind., born in Washington Township, June 26, 1850, a son of Benjamin A. and Katherine Huron. He was reared and educated in his native county, and for about four years was one of its corps of school¬ teachers. In 1872 he went to Atchison, Kas., where he was employed as clerk in a store two years, and in 1874 returned to Hen¬ dricks County. He has devoted his attention to agricultural pur¬ suits and now owns a tine farm near Avon. In the spring of 1884 he was elected Justice of the Peace, and assumed the duties of his office the following November. Mr. Huron was married Aug. 2, I 1876, to Mary E. Farmer, daughter of David Farmer, formerly of j Hendricks County, now of Putnam County, Mo. To them have been born four children - Mary E., born May 3, 1877; Frank P., born Juue 16, 1880, died March 16, 1881; Irma R., born April 30,

1882, and Flora F., born Dec. 23, 1884. Mr. and Mrs. Huron are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and he is serving his j second year as Superintendent of the Sunday-school, at Wesley I Chapel. His parents, who were among the first settlers of the i county, still live on the farm they entered from the Government, more than fifty years ago. Their children, nine in number, have all been school-teachers (as was also the father), and are now all scattered, from Florida to Kansas, leaving the old folks u alone in the old house at home."

Lotan W. Jenkins , a prominent farmer and stock-raiser of Wash- I ington Township, was born in Randolph County, N. C., Nov. 3, 1823, a son of John and Rebecca Jenkins. In the fall of 1833 his parents moved to Hendricks County, Ind., and after several re- j movals, finally, in 1838, made a permanent settlement in Wash¬ ington Township, on the farm now owned by our subject. John ^

1 Jenkins was a fair representative of the pioneers of Hendricks County, a sturdy, noble race of men, the results of whose toil and j perseverance have proved a blessing to their descendants. He died in September, 1842, his wife surviving him till September, 1882. 1

I Their family consisted of nine children, but four of whom are liv- ' ing - Lotan W., William M., Mary D. and Elizabeth Y. The de- I . ceased are - Laura A., Louisa, Jane M., David W. and Rachel.

I Lotan W. Jenkins was reared in Hendricks County, receiving a good education. After leaving school he taught about nine years I in the winter, working on the farm in the summer. In August, I , 1862, he enlisted in Company K, Seventy-ninth Indiana Infantry,

1 Army of the Cumberland. He was captured at Chickamauga, I Sept. 20, 1868, and was taken to Richmond and confined six weeks I in Libby and Smith & Pemberton prisons; was then transferred | to Danville, Va., thence in May to Anderson ville, and in October to Miller Prison, Ga., where he remained till Nov. 19,

| 1864, when he was taken to Savannah and exchanged. He was I then sent to Annapolis, Md., and after a month's confinement | in the hospital was granted a furlough for thirty days. At the j expiration of his furlough he reported for duty at Camp Chase, j Ohio, where on account of .his enfeebled condition he was in the j hospital a month, and was then detailed a clerk in Major War- | ren's office, remaining there till his discharge in June, 1865. |

After his return home he settled on the homestead with his | mother, which he now owns. His home is one of the pleasantest j in the township, and contains 280 acres of valuable land. In 1870 I he was elected Clerk of Hendricks County, assuming the duties of I his office in J uly, 1872, and served four years with efficiency. He [ has also served his township as Trustee and Assessor. In politics | he is a Republican. Mr. Jenkins was married Aug. 4, 1874, to I and Nancy Dennis. To them have been born four children - David W., born Aug. 4, 1876; Mary L., July 4, 1879; Annie L., I j Jnly 13, 1882, and Lotan D., Aug. 27, 1884. Mr. and Mrs. Jen- ' kins are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. |

They had a family of ten children - Mary, Jane, Haunah, Elizabeth, John C., Alfred T., Ellis W., Allen, Rachel, and Cyrus; the last ; three are deceased. Ellis W. Jessup was reared in Hamilton I County. He was married June 11, 1846, to Millie Hinshaw, a | native of North Carolina, born Oct. 15, 1827, daughter of Stephen and Elma (Hoover) Hinshaw, early settlers of Hamilton County, j To Mr. and Mrs. J essup have been born thirteen children - Zelinda J., John T., Hannah E., Alcinda H., Mary E. (deceased), Addie M., George W., Rosa A., Charles W., Sylvester M., frank (de¬ ceased), Maud A. and Minnie B. In the fall of 1868 Mr. Jessup moved from Hamilton to Boone County, and a year later to Marion County, where he remained till 1876, when he came to Hendricks County and settled on his present farm in the southern part of | Washington Township. He is a successful agriculturist and owns 120 acres of well-cultivated land, with all modern improvements, making it one of the finest farms in the township. He and his wife are members of the Christian church.

Cornelius Loy , a pioneer of Washington Township, was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, Aug. 4, 1808, a son of John and Cath¬ erine (Isley) Loy. In 1823 his parents moved to Putnam County, Ind., and settled near Greencastle, and.seven years later moved to Tippecanoe County, where his father died. Three of a family of five children are living - Betsey, Sarah and Cornelius. Cornelius Loy was reared a farmer and has always followed that vocation.

He owns a fine farm of 240 acres, all under cultivation. He is a self-made man, having made all he has by his industry and perse¬ verance, and is one of the representative citizens of Hendricks County. He was married Nov. 30,1831, to Rachel Compton, a native of Warren County, Ohio, born Oct. 1, 1815, daughter of Mathew and Rachel Compton. They have had four children - John, born Sept. 30, 1832; Obadiah C., born June 24, 1837, died Oct. 26, 1849; Amos D., born April 20, 1844, and Mary A., born Feb. 20, 1849. In politics Mr. Loy is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

David F. McCalmert, farmer and stock-raiser, Washington Township, was born in Marion County, Ind., Jan. 9, 1830, a son of Wilson and Lydia (Faucett) McCalmert, natives of Ohio, who set¬ tled in Marion County in 1826. Their family consisted of five children - Amy, Mary, Cynthia A., David F. and Jane (deceased). David F. McCalmert was reared on a farm, receiving a coramon- school education. He has made agriculture his life work and now i owns 160 acres of fine land, and has one of the best farms in Wash¬ ington Township. He was married April 8, 1858, to Savannah I. Pettycrew, daughter of Samuel Pettycrew, of Wayne County, Ind. Eight children were born to them - Deborah, Albert S., Lydia, Frank, Charity A., Fletcher P., Horace and Irena M. Mrs^ Me- j Calmert died in July, 1877. March 1, 1883, Mr. McCalmert j married Nancy Kenney, daughter of Thomas Kenney. Mr. Mc- Calmcrt has served his township as School Director. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. j

Bascom S . McClain , a prominent farmer of Washington Town- | ship, is a native of Henclricks County, Ind., born July 1, 1840, a son of Michael and Jane McClain. He was reared on his father's farm, remaining at home till after the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, when he was one of the many brave boys of Hen- 1 dricks to enlist in defense of the Union. He was a member of Company K, Seventy-ninth Indiana Infantry, Army of the Cumberland, and participated in many of the most important battles of the war, serving till May, 1865. After his discharge he t returned to his native county, where he has since engaged in agri¬ cultural pursuits. He owns a valuable farm of 160 acres and is surrounded with all the comforts of life. He was married Sept. 7, !

1865, to Rhoda J. Ritter, daughter of James and Rachel Ritter, both of whom are deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. McClain have been | born four children - Ethel, Hoyt, Glen and Mary O., the latter | deceased. Mr. McClain is a member of Plainfield Post, G. A. R.

Gilbert D . McClain is a native of Washington Township, born April 14, 1838, a son of Michael and Jane McClain, his father a native of Kentucky and his mother of Virginia. In 1832 his pa¬ rents came to Hendricks County, Ind., making the journey on horseback through the dense forests and almost impassable roads. They settled in Washington Township, where the father died in 1856, his wife surviving till 1882. Of their family of ten children, nine are living - Mary A., James H., Niantia F., Susan J., Sarah A., Gilbert D., Bascom S., John W. and Jeretta B. Gilbert D. i served till Jane, 1865. He participated in the engagements at Murfreesboro, Perryville, Chickamauga, Chattanooga, siege of At¬ lanta, Franklin and siege of Nashville. After his return home he engaged in agricultural pursuits, at which he has been successful, and now owns 248 acres of valuable land. He was married Jan. 14, 1866, to Amanda Walker, daughter of Joseph and Sarah Walker. They have had a family of six children, two of whom are living - Bascom W. and Adrian R. Mr. McClain in politics is a Republi¬ can. He has served his township as Superintendent a year, and six years a9 School Director. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic.

George W . Merritt , one of the prominent pioneers of Washing¬ ton Township, was born in Highland County, Ohio, April 20, 1821, a son of George S. and Jane (Carden) Merritt. His parents came to Hendricks County in the fall of 1825 and settled in Washington Township, where his father died in 1854 and his mother in 1863. Of their family of eight children, five are living - William J., El¬ vira, Sarah, Mary and George W. Our subject was reared in Hendricks County, remaining with his parents till manhood. His early life was spent in assisting his father on the farm, and since leaving home he has devoted his attention to agricultural pursuits, at which he has-been very successful and now owns a fine farm of 340 acres. He was married Dec. 28, 1844, to Melvina Johnson, who was born in September, 1823, a daughter of Thomas Johnson, one of the pioneers of Hendricks County. To them have been born nine children - George T., John E., James H., William, Melinda J., Mary I., Sylvester N., Simeon (deceased) and Reuben A. In politics Mr. Merritt is a Democrat. He and his wife are members of the Baptist church.

De Forest Miller is a native of South Carolina, born June 7, 1839, a son of Isaac and Mary Miller. He was reared in his* na¬ tive State, where he received a fair English education. In 1865 he came to Hendricks County, Ind., and located in Washington Township, where he now has a good farm of eighty-six acres. He was married March 7, 1861, to Melvina F. Walker, daughter of Hogan and Mary Walker. Their only child, Mary G., is deceased. Mrs. Miller died April 5, 1874. April 21, 1875, Mr. Miller mar¬ ried Frances M., daughter of John Gladden. They have one child - Paul D. Mr. Miller is a member of Brownsburg Lodge, No. 188, 1. O. O. F. In politics he is a Republican.

Aug. 24, 1841, a son of John D. and Ann Miller, natives of Ken¬ tucky, and early settlers of Hendricks County. He was reared and educated in his native county, remaining with his parents till after | the breaking out of the Rebellion. In August, 1862, he enlisted in the Sixty-third Indiana Infantry and participated in the engage - j ments at Resaca, siege of Atlanta, Franklin, Nashville, Fort 1 Fisher, Wilmington, and others of less note. He was honorably discharged in July, 1865, and upon his return home turned his attention to agriculture, at which he has been successful. He now owns a valuable farm of eighty-four acres, and his improvements J are among the best in the township. Mr. Miller was mar¬ ried Feb. 12, 1882, to Mary E. Jones, daughter of James Jones, of i Brownsburg.

County, is a native of North Carolina, born Dec. 25, 1818, a son | of Samuel and Susannah (Davidson) Pike. Of a family of seven chil¬ dren, four are living, our subject being the second - Joel, William, # I Mary and Jemima. In 1838, in company with Thomas and Caleb ' Dickson, he came to Hendricks County, lnd. , and located in Liberty Township. They built a saw-mill, and after its completion Mr. Pike bought the interests of his partners and carried on the busi¬ ness about three years. He then worked as a millwright a short time, and in 1843 made his first purchase of land, buying eighty acres of land in Washington Township. To this he has added till he now owns 374 acres of valuable land. Mr. Pike was married Jan. 15, 1843, to Priscilla A. Hornaday, who died Jan. 14, 1859, leaving three children - Oliver Howard, born Jan. 1, 1844; Isaiah Marion, born April 29, 1848; Daniel Day, born Dec. 15,1852. Jan. 19, 1860, he married Nancy J. Moon, and to them were born two children - Jesse Cassius, born May 14, 1861, and Laura Belle, born June 23, 1869. Mrs. Pike died Dec. 28, 1873, and Oct. 20, 1874, Mr. Pike married Mary J. McDaniel. They have two chil¬ dren - Sarah Minnie, born Feb. 21, 1876, and Margaret Susanna, born Oct. 16, 1878. In politics Mr. Pike is a Republican. He is ! a member of the Baptist church.

Eli H. Ross , farmer, Washington Township, is a native of Hendricks County, lnd., born March 13, 1848, a son of Alexander i and Bethiali Ross, his father a native of Pennsylvania and his mother of Warren County, Ohio. In 1832 his parents moved to Hendricks County and settled on the farm now owned by our sub¬ ject. They were among the first pioneers of the township, and when they settled on their land it was an uncultivated, heavilytimbered tract. .They were industrious and energetic and made for themselves and family a good home. The father died in 1858 and the mother in 1884. Of their children three are living - Eli EL, Walter T. and Jennie. One son, Arthur E., gave his life for his country. He enlisted in the Fifty-third Indiana Infantry, and participated in many important battles. He was wounded and captured at Kenesaw Mountain; was taken to Atlanta, where he died in July, 1864. Eli II. Ross was reared and educated in his native township. He has always given his attention to agricult¬ ural pursuits, and since his majority has had charge of the home¬ stead farm, sixty acres of which he now owns. In politics he is a Republican.

Benjamin Sanders, deceased, was a native of Ohio, born May 11, 1815, a son of Isaac and Mariam Sanders, early settlers of Hendricks County. His youth was passed on a farm, and after attaining manhood he followed agricultural pursuits. He located in Washington Township, where his widow still lives, the farm containing eighty acres of good land, with a pleasant residence and substantial farm buildings. He was a prominent member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and served as Class-Leader several years. He was married March 1, 1837, to Lucinda McCreery, daughter of Daniel and Sarah McCreery. To them were born eleven children - Mariam, born July 3, 1838, died April 2, 1872; Daniel, born Aug. 3, 1840; Amanda J., born Nov. 3, 1842; Sarah, born June 2, 1845, died July 29, 1876; John, born Aug. 9, 1847, died Nov. 12, 1871; Isaac, born Nov. 17, 1851, died Aug. 9, 1852; Martha A., born Nov. 24, 1853; Hannah, born Sept. 16, 1856, died Oct. 15, 1883; and Rachel, born March 29, 1859, died Aug. 11, 1884. Mr. Sanders died March S, 1860. Mrs. Sanders lives on the old homestead, loved and esteemed by all who know her. She is an active member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Her par¬ ents had a family of eleven children, five of whom are living - Melinda, Andrew, John, James and Mrs. Sanders.

Henry Sanders, a prominent farmer of Washington Toynship, was born in Fayette County, Ohio, July 25, 1826, a son of John and Elizabeth (Goodhart) Sanders, the former a native of North Carolina and the latter of Virginia. About 1832 his parents moved to Hendricks County, Ind., where they both died. Four of their family of ten children are living - Mary, Sarah, Henry and John. Henry Sanders was about six years of age when his parents moved to Hendricks County and was here reared and educated, amid the scenesof pioneer life. He was married Oct, 7, 1847, to Julia A. Gossett, daughter of Samuel and Isabella Gossett. To them were born eight children, seven of whom are living - Alva W., Mary A., Emma E., Albert P., Willie E., Frank E. and Harry E. In 1852 Mr. Sanders located in Washington Township, where he now has a fine farm of 200 acres. He also owns eighty-two acres of val¬ uable land in Guilford Township. He is an enterprising citizen and a liberal contributor to all interests of public benefit. In poli¬ tics he is a Republican.

Alpheus F Smith is a native of Hendricks County, Ind., born June 6, 1848, a son of Morgan L. and Margaret Smith, the former a native of New York and the latter of New Jersey. His father came to Hendricks County in 1832 and liis mother in 1834, and were here married. Four of their eight children are living - Mary J., Charles W., Alpheus F. and John Fletcher. The deceased are - James I., Alfred, Theodore and Ann E. Alpheus F. Smith was reared in his native county and received his primary instruction in the public schools. In the fall of 1863 he entered Asbury, now De Pauw, University, at Greencastle, Ind., and in June, 1867, gradu¬ ated from the scientific department. In the early part of 1868 he, in partnership with D. II. Miller, engaged in the drug business at Franklin, Johnson Co., Ind. Three months later, on account of ill-health, he sold his interest to his partner and has since been engaged in* agricultural pursuits, at which he has been successful, and now owns a pleasant home, his farm containing 322 acres of valuable land. Mr. Smith was married Sept. 12, 1871, to Ellen Hardin, daughter of James T. and Fannie Hardin, of Marion County, Ind. They have one child - Lillian, born March 31* 1872. Mr. Smith is a member of the Odd Fellows lodge, at Clermont, Marion County. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Morgan L. Smith , the subject of this sketch, was born in Orange County, N. Y., on the 21stof August, 1806. When he was six years old his father died, leaving a widow and a family of six chil¬ dren with limited means. By the force of circumstances, from an early age, he was thrown upon his own resources and laid the foun¬ dation of a character always well sustained for energy, industry, perseverance and integrity. He learned the trade of a shipcarpenter in the city of New York, but disliking the habit of drinking which he everywhere observed about him among the sides at Chariton, Iowa. There were three sons - Charles W., who resides in the city of Indianapolis and is engaged in the prac¬ tice of law; Alpheus F. owns a large portion of the old farm and resides upon it; J. Fletcher is proprietor of a hotel at Leon, Iowa. His widow yet survives and enjoys a green old age dividing her time among her children.

John Thorribrugh is a native of Virginia, born Jan. 17, 1809. His parents, William and Elizabeth Thornbrugh, moved to what is now Wayne County, Ind., in 1810, and there he was reared and educated. In 1847 he moved to Hendricks County and settled in the eastern part of Washington Township, where he now has a fine farm of sixty-six acres. He was at one time one of the most exten¬ sive stock-dealers of Hendricks County, and during the war of the Rebellion was employed by the Government as Quartermaster for broken-down stock, with headquarters at Louisville, Ky. He has been one of the mo6t enterprising citizens of the township and has assisted materially all objects of public benefit. He was married Jan. 29, 1829, to Eleanor Nordyke, and to them have been born eleven children - Clark, Luther (deceased), Didama (deceased), Esau, Henry, Celia A., Nancy J., Sarah E., Isaac, George and Mary E.

Ellis Wood was born in Greene County, Pa., Feb. 23, 1827, a son of Isaac and Mary E. Wood, natives of Pennsylvania, his paternal ancestors being of English origin. His parents settled in Shelby County, Ind., in an early day, remaining there till their death. Ellis is the only one living of a family of ten children. He was reared in Shelby County , receiving his education in the district schools. Hi6 early life was spent on his father's farm, and since attaining manhood he has followed agricultural pursuits. He came to Hendricks County in 1862 and settled in Washington Township, where he now has a fine farm of 160 acres, substantial farm build¬ ings and a pleasant residence. Mr. Wood was married in Novem¬ ber, 1849, to Martha Lee, daughter of James N. and Mary Lee, early settlers of Shelby County. To them have been born seven children, five of whom are living - Isaac J., James M., Mary E.3 Amanda N. and Joseph N. In politics Mr. Wood is a Democrat. He and his wife are members of the Baptist church.

Joseph Winings is a native of Hamilton County, Ohio, born July 11, 1842, a son of Samuel and Harriet Winings, his father a native of Pennsylvania and his mother of Ohio. In 1854 his parents moved to Marion County, Ind., where his father died in children, six of whom are living - Joseph, Archibald, Daniel, Debo¬ rah, Frank and Jesse. Joseph Winings remained with his parents j till after the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, and in Augj ust, 1862, enlisted in the Sixty-third Indiana Infantry. He partic- | ipated in many of the most noted battles of the war, among them ! being Buzzard's Roost, Resaca, Cass vi lie, Kenesaw Mountain, siege of Atlanta, Jonesboro, Franklin, Nashville, Fort Fisher, Golds¬ boro, and was present at the surrender of Johnston's army. He was discharged in July, 1865. In September, 1865, he married Eliza J. Fausset, daughter of Jesse Fausset, a prominent citizen of Washington Township. To them have been born eight children - Margaret H., Glendora, Rhoda M., Samuel O., Jesse E., Joseph H., Frances E. and William R. Mr. Winings settled on the farm where he now lives in 1869. He has eighty acres of valuable land, with a pleasant residence and good farm buildings. He is an in¬ fluential citizen; has served his township as Assessor and is at present serving his second term as Trustee. He is a member of Bridgeport, Marion County, Lodge, F. & A. M., and Plainfield Post, G. A. R. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Source changes here: from History of Hendricks County, Indiana, Her People, Industries and Institutions, by Hadley, John Vestal, published 1914; 1,587 words in this source stream.

Topography

On the east line of Hendricks county is located Washington township, bounded on its north side by Lincoln and Middle townships, on the east by Marion county, on the south side by Guilford and Liberty, and on the west by Center township. White Lick creek flows across the west side of this township and the East fork of this same creek touches the southeast corner. Along the creek valley the land is rolling and fertile ;_ the central and eastern portion of the civil division is very level and, before the day of artificial drainage, was rather swampy. It was not, however, equal to other townships in this respect. The early growth of timber, now gone, was largely composed of beech, but embraced many valuable varieties. The soil is clay and alluvial, being well adapted to grasses and grain.

Early Days

The first settlement in Washington township was made in the northeast corner, near the site of Shiloh church, by Robert Wilson, Gideon Wilson and Elisha Kise in the year 1822. The next year Daniel Tryer, Aaron Homan, the Griggs family, Joseph Fausett and others came into the same neighborhood in the same year, 1823, James Dunn, John Givens, Abner Dunn, for whom Abner's creek was named, and others, settled on the west side of the township on the above named creek. James Dunn settled on the Rockville road. Among those who came into the township within the next few years were David Cox, Alexander McCammock, Enoch Barlow and his sons Harvey and Harrison, the Thornbroughs, Hurons, Huffords and Gossetts.

This township was one of the four which were organized at the same time as the organization of Hendricks county and received its name from George Washington at the suggestion of Aaron Homan, who was the first justice of the peace and married the second couple to be wedded in the county.

First Election

The first general election in Washington township was held August 7, 1826, at the home of Daniel C. Hults, and eleven persons voted. These were : Sidney Williams, Daniel C. Hults, James Merritt, Joseph Runyan, Isaac Williamson, Daniel B. Tryer, James Higgenbotham, Joseph Phillips, William S. Merrill, Robert Wilson and John Triggs. In its political history, Washington township was at first Whig and after the death of that party followed the fortunes of the Repul^lican organization.

Avon, the capital of Washington township, is at a point very near the center of the township. The first settlement of the neighborhood was about the year 1830. Among the first settlers were the Hurons, the Rosses, the Gossetts, the McClains, the Jenkinses, Abram Harding, Absalom Payne, Dr. Malone, R. J. Barker, G. W. Merritt and James Siggurson. It was dense forest everywhere : deer and wolves were a common sight ; but in small clearings little calkins of round logs sprang up and in a very short time this became a "neighborhood." The whole settlement was made up of people of energy and enterprise who came here to make a home that was to be their home, so their plans took in the question of church and school and roads and a postoffice. In 1833 Absalom Payne, who entered the land and lived where J. H. Wear now lives, was commissioned postmaster of Hampton postofTp.ce, with a weekly mail carried on horseback from the east to the west, but no one remembers where from or where to. In a few years Mr. Payne tired of the empty honor and the ofiice passed to Dr. Malone, where J. H. \\'inings lives, and a little later to W. T. Ross, where E. E. Blair now lives. Mr. Ross also tired of the office and, no one else wanting it, is was allowed to die, and Hampton was no more. In 1852 O. J. Huron, newly married, was persuaded to accept a commission as postmaster, naming the ofiice White Lick and locating it in his log cabin, one-fourth mile west of present Avon. Just three months satisfied Mr. Huron and White Lick died and was laid away, in memory, besides Hampton. Along in the fifties John Smoot began making visits here as a pack-peddler; soon he added a horse and wagon and came weekly, and, after a time, about 1858, leased ground and built a small room in the corner of J. H. Ross's yard, where William Shipman now lives. Smoot emptied his pack and put a few more items on a few shelves.

and this was the beginning of the town. But Mr. Ross was a strong RepubHcan and Mr. Smoot an ardent Democrat, and it was not long until Smoot moved his store to Democratic ground, across the road, on the land of John Dickerson, and thus, at the very first the town began to move. Mr. Dickerson not being willing to sell a lot to Mr. Smoot, the latter sought one elsewhere and, November i, 1862, R. J. Barker deeded Smoot a half acre a mile farther west and the following winter he moved his store on a couple of logsleds to his own lot ; this was the third town-site. Mr. Smoot prospered and enlarged his store and added more goods, and in 1867 he headed a petition to Washington for a postoffice, and for R. M. Bartley to be made postmaster, but no name was suggested for the new office, and the authorities used the first name on the petition; when Mr. Bartley's commission, dated April 28, 1868, reached him it gave the office the picturesque name, Smootsdell, located it in Smoot' s store and gave us two mails a week, carried horseback from Plainfield by D. S. Barker. When the I. & St. L. railroad was being surveyed, the man who, with a blue pencil, marked the stakes, made fun of the name of our postoffice, and said, "I'll name the town." Artistically he pencilled "New Philadelphia" on a stake and drove it down. When the road was completed the company drove another stake, with "Avon" painted on it. The people liked the name and petitioned to have the postoffice name changed to Avon. This was done and Smootsdell was laid away beside Hampton and White Lick. In May, 1871, Mr. Smoot sold all his property, building, lot and goods to Mr. Bartley and moved to Kansas. A little later the Barker brothers erected a building at the railroad crossing, put a stock of goods in one room, the other being used by the company. The Barkers soon tired of the store and quit, then J. L. Middleton, in 1875, added a general store to his shoe shop south of the railroad. In 1889 E. T. Huron was made postmaster and purchased the Middleton store. In 1893 William Taylor became postmaster. Mr. Taylor was full of enterprise and built a new postoffice building and put in a stock of goods, and Avon, for the first time, had three stores at one time. From the very first there was a rivalry among the people as to the location of the postoffice and the future town; the east side wanted it and the west side wanted it more. The Big Four folks soon learned of this feeling and sought to use it in securing bonuses. The station was at first a half mile west of the Plainfield road, then on the road, then threefourths of a mile east, where trains stopped at an old box-car in the middle of a farm for passengers, and patrons carried trunks down the track till they were tired, then changed hands and carried again. The west side com- plained and grumbled, than begged and finally won the station, and thought themselves secure; but in 189 1 private citizens bought a little yellow dwelling and moved it to the crossing a mile east, and the company slid its telegraph office into it. The old sad look came again to the west-sider's face; the company saw the look and smiled, then moved their station also to the yellow dwelling, using it for all purposes until 1894, when, with generous help of east-side citizens, the company erected a neat three-room building. The eastside countenance broadened; the little yellow building was moved back and a stock of goods put in and, for a little while, Avon had four stores, three at the west side and one at the east, a mile away, but trade was backward and the new store soon closed, the yellow dwelling was sold again and this time was moved three miles away, when it ceased to worry the west side, with her three stores and the postoffice left. In 1900 the first rural free delivery in the county, and among the first in the state, was established in Danville, route No. i, and its first delivery was made April 2d, of that year. While this has proven one of the greatest blessings ever bestowed on the common people, it crippled the Avon postoffice, reducing the salary from thirty-five dollars to six dollars per quarter, and when, on November i, 1902, the first Plainfield route was opened and passed the Avon postoffice door, the office was discontinued, and now Hampton, White Lick, Smootsdell and Avon all lie buried side by side. But the town survived, holding its own till the Terre Haute, Indianapolis & Eastern traction line was opened, September i, 1906, when it began to improve and has continued to do so, until today its two general stores sell several times the amount of goods sold then, and property values have about trebled.