Dorr Township (part 3 of 6)

Russel B. Fenner

James L. Fanner was born in Massachusetts, May 21, 1777. His ancestors originally settled on Long Island and were from England, but at what time is not known. After his marriage to Miss Betsey Perry, James emigrated to Onondaga Co., N. Y., and settled in the town of Manlius, where he worked at his trade, that of a millwright, helping to build many of the first mills of that then new country. In 1818, having sold his land in the town of Pompey (same county), where he had been living for some time, he moved with his family into the town of Lysander, Onondaga Co., where he bought a large tract of new land. This land he cleared and improved, setting out orchards and erecting fine buildings, and making it in time one of the fine farms of his township, and on which he lived until his death, Jan. 16, 1851. There were born to them nine children, of whom Russel B. Fenner was the sixth. He was born in Pompey, Feb. 9, 1814, and grew to manhood on the farm of his father, for whom he worked until he arrived at his majority, when he started out on his own account. He worked one year for his father, then one season at the carpenter's trade, after which he worked his father's farm on shares four years. In 1841 Mr. Fenner bought fifty acres of land, which he built upon and improved, and which he traded with his father for one hundred and forty acres of wild land in the town of Martin, Allegan Co., Mich. In 1844 he came to Martin, and soon after, in company with his brother, built the first saw-mill in the town. It was called Fenner's mill, and was built in what was laid out to be the village of Smyrna. The brothers ran the mill about four years, when Russel sold his interest in it and then gave his attention to farming and the carpenter's trade. He improved about seventy acres of his farm, and built on it a large log house and a fine barn. In 1855 Mr. Fenner sold his Martin farm and bought in the town of Gun Plain the southeast quarter of the southeast quarter of section 5, and the southwest quarter of the southwest quarter of section 4, which was partly improved. On this place he has erected good buildings, planted orchards, and made himself and wife a beautiful home, a sketch of which appears on another page of this work. Mr. Fenner is in every sense of the word a self-made man. He is one who believes that what one man can do another can, and he has never hesitated to attempt any work that place and circumstances has called upon him to perform. He has devoted much time to the study of medicine, and, though he has no diploma as a physician and does not hold himself out as one, still he has in his day performed many cures. He is and has always been a Democrat, and has been for three years road commissioner, and for eleven years a justice of the peace in a Republican township. On the 28th day of September, 1837, Mr. Fenner was joined in marriage to Miss Hannah V. Schenck, who was born in Lysander, Aug. 13 1817. She is a daughter of Rulef and Elsie (Baird) Schenck. There have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Fenner five children, viz. : Byron R., born March 4, 1839; Eliza E., April 1, 1842; William P., Dec. 22, 1844; all in Lysander. Rulef James, born Sept. 17, 1850 ; and Franklin M., Oct. 11, 1854 ; both born in Martin.

The township of Heath has grown but slowly since its settlement, from the fact that its first residents were attracted by the prolific growth of pine timber, and located there only for purposes of lumbering. Finding no strong inducements to remain after the forests had been felled, they departed for other fields of labor. In point of convenience Heath has an advantageous location, with the Grand Haven Railroad running transversely across it, and afibrding at the stations of Dunningyille and Hamilton opportunities for the shipment of produce. It is designated on the United States survey as township 3 north, of range 14 west, having Overisel on the north. Pine Plains on the south, Monterey on the east, and Manlius on the west. The township has many beautiful and expansive views, and a considerable variety of surface. No striking elevations are to be seen, but many gentle slopes and numerous level plains diversify the scenery. A portion of the level land is swampy, though efibrts are being made to drain these tracts.

Two rivers traverse the township, the Kalamazoo, which passes through the southwest corner, and Rabbit River, which afi'ords a fine water-power in the northwest portion. Silver Creek, in the northeast quarter, flows in a northerly direction, and finds an outlet in the last-named river. The Kalamazoo River is fed by Deer and Bear Creeks, which flow from the west and join it on section 32. Pine has been the principal timber of the township and its chief source of revenue. The largest and best trees have, however, been generally converted into lumber, leaving an inferior quality still upon the ground, and even this is rapidly disappearing. In the northwest and southeast portions beech, oak, and maple flourish to a moderate extent, while the swampy land produces tamarack and other timber peculiar to such soil.

The prevailing soil of Heath is a sandy loam, with occasional streaks of clay. On the bottom-land along the rivers and creeks an alluvial soil is found, which equals in productiveness any in the county. Wheat and corn are the staple products of the township, a large portion of which is not yet sufficiently cleared to raise crops. Fine crops of corn have been raised on the clay land when deeply plowed, and on the river-bottoms an unusual yield is obtained.

In 1874, the year of the last census, 196 acres were sown with wheat and 219 acres were planted with corn, which gave a yield of 1845 bushels of the former and 7341 of the latter. This is not much behind the average in the county. Of course, however, the best tracts were selected for cultivation, and it must be acknowledged that there is considerable land which would hardly pay for til- lage by crops of corn and wheat. Yet potatoes and garden vegetables find here a congenial soil and attain great size. Fruits are raised to a considerable extent, many fine orchards being found on the farms of the settlers. Peach crops are engaging the attention of farmers, both the soil and climate of Heath having been found well adapted to their growth. Many orchards have recently been started, and give promise of good revenues to their owners ; in fact, fruit-culture bids fair to be decidedly successful, and to redeem Heath from the somewhat dubious agricultural reputation which it has heretofore acquired.

Purchasers Of Land From Government

A. W. Judd, W. C. Flanner, J. B. Porter. Section 9. - Bought in 1836 by Samuel Hubbard, E. Farnsworth. Section ID. - Bought from 1836 to 1854 by Samuel Hubbard, Charles

Atlee. Section 12. - Bought in 1854 by A. Graham, M. R. Buffem, C. Hollepeta, Lemuel Daily. Section 13. - Bought in 1836 by Chandler HoUister, A. L. and A.

Stockbridge. Section 17. - Bought from 1836 to 1854 by E. Farnsworth, J. J. Littlejohn, J. Littlejohn, Jr., Henry Fisher, Daniel Richardson, William Rider. Section 18. - Bought from 1836 to 1868 by B. Farnsworth, J. J. Littlejohn, P. 0. Littlejohn, J. Richardson, S. R. Powell, I. McDaniels. Section 19. - Bought from 1836 to 1864 by J. R. Kellogg, Davis and

Seetiou 25. - Bought from 1836 to 1854: by Hart and Merritt, A. S. Judd, Daniel Correll, Daniel and James Correll, Stephen Sutton, D. A. Fauslcr, Epaphroditus Hansom, D. A. Fausler.

Section 29. - Bought from 1833 to 1853 by Arthur Bronson, Samuel Hubbard, 11 D. Hill, Alexander H. Edwards, Samuel Bigsby, Ellen Littlejohn, Davis and Fiiiher, J. B. and H. Dumont.

Section 31. - Bought from 1850 to 1855 by L. S. Parker, assignee, Z. L. Griswold, Jarvis Sperry, Thomas Graves, James Youngs, James W. Parker.

Section 35. - Bought from 1836 to 1854 by Trowbridge and Porter, F. H. Heath, Jesse Clements, Nathan H. Parks, D. H. Daniels, Ambrose Belden, Wilson Freed.

Sectiim 36. - Bought from 1837 to 1852 by S. D. Webster, Silas Hubbard, John Sadler, Daniel Rhodabaugh, John M. Heath, J. W. Fausler, Epaphroditus Ransom.

Eaklt Settlements

Considerable of the land of Heath was purchased from the government as early as 1833, but the first settler did not appear until 1850, when Simon Howe obtained control under a contract of a portion of section 6, upon which he and Col. John Littlejohn erected a saw-mill on Rabbit River. This property was subsequently leased to other parties, and after a brief residence in the hamlet of Rabbit River, now Hamilton, Howe moved to Kalamazoo County, where he died. He passed through many vicissitudes during his business career at Rabbit River, and ultimately left the place with his exchequer greatly reduced as the result of his commercial schemes.

The second settler was John Sadler, who left Rochester, N. Y., in 1841, and first located in Allegan township, where he remained ten years. Having, during this time, purchased 80 acres on section 36, in Heath, he removed thither in 1851. With him came his three sons, Jonathan, Richard A., and Andrew J. Sadler. They found Simon Howe already established on section 6 and preparing to build his saw-mill. Mr. Sadler and his sons, having previously lived within a short distance of their new purchase, had found it easy to make the necessary improvements on the land before becoming residents. They had already erected a log house and cleared a considerable tract. Indians were still quite common in the spring and fall, usually chosing their spring residence in the vicinity of maplegroves, where they made considerable quantities of sugar for use or exchange. Mr. Sadler died in 1863 on the homestead which is now occupied by his son, Andre*^. Jonathan Sadler resides on the east half of section 36.

Porter Shields arrived in the township in 1852, and located upon section 35. He was afterwards employed in the saw-mill built by Ambrose Belden in 1856, and while

Joseph Shank and Amos S. Judd, who had previously been residents of Hancock Co., Ohio, located in the township in 1853, both having purchased land on section 24. The former moved some years afterwards to the nortliern portion of the State, where he now resides. Mr. Judd is still a resident of the township. Stephen Sutton, a former neighbor in Ohio, followed them a year after, and improved a farm on the same section. He survived but a few years.

In 1854, Allen Beach became a resident of section 14, where- he had previously purchased 1 60 acres. He continued to reside in the township until his death, in 1879.

Indiana was represented among the early pioneers by C. K. Calkins, who purchased a farm on section 12, which he cleared and made productive. He afterwards relinquished the occupation of a farmer for that of a landlord, and removed to section 1 , where he opened a house of entertainment, known as the " Diamond Springs Hotel," of which he is still the proprietor.

Abram Parkhurst, previously a resident of Branch County, moved to Heath in 1854, and purchased 40 acres on section 8. The work of farming was interspersed with the exciting life of a hunter and trapper, in which occupations Mr. Parkhurst was remarkably skillful. Deer and other game were still plentiful, and his revenue was materially increased by the various furs and skins which he captured. The opportunities for such exploits are now so rare as to enable him to devote his attention exclusively to his farm, upon which he is still a resident.

Philander Smith settled in 1854 upon 40 acres in section 36, which he purchased of Daniel Rhodabaugh. He built a shingle-mill, which was run by horse-power, and for a while supplied many of the shingles which were used in that portion of the township.

Daniel Rhodabaugh also owned a farm on the same section, having obtained it on a land-warrant for services in the Mexican war. He entered the army at the beginning of the late war, and after his return moved to St. Louis, Mo., where he now resides. His farm is now occupied by Joseph Taylor. Peter Rhodabaugh came in 1854, and established a shingle-mill on section 12.

Daniel H. Dowd, who now resides in Allegan, left the city of Chicago for the pine-forests of Heath in 1856. He chose section 2 as a location, where he purchased 320 acres of land. The largest log house in the county (which is still occupied), together with a substantial barn, was built by him soon after his arrival. Samuel S. Graham had previously erected a log shanty just east of Mr. Dowd's place, which he had been in the habit for several years of occupying in the summer, removing in the winter to his more comfortable residence in Branch County. Into this cabin Mr. Dowd arid his family removed until his own residence was completed. Mr. Dowd cleared a considerable portion of his land, much of it having been covered with pine of a superior quality. A part of it, by hard labor, he made quite productive. On Silver Creek, which runs through the farm, his son, Charles S. Dowd, owns and manages a large saw-mill, which is one of the most flourishing of the business enterprises of the township.

William Lowrie purchased 400 acres on sections 8 and 9 in 1855, upon which he built a house and improved 40 acres. He subsequently sold it, however, and removed to Monterey.

Fitch Swan purchased, in 1855, the north half of the northwest quarter of section 1, and the north half of the nortTieast quarter of section 2. He improved this land and remained upon it several years, after which he exchanged it for land in Branch County, owned by James Roblyer, who became a resident of Heath in 1866, and now occupies the land he obtained from Mr. Swan.

George H. Phelps, in connection with his son, C. D. Phelps, erected a saw-mill on section 28 in 1855, which was for many years in operation, but is now in ruins. Mr. Phelps resided in Heath until his death, in 1872.

Charles Davis came to the township in 1862, and purchased land at Hamilton. Mrs. Davis was a daughter of James M. Heath, from whom the township was named. The family still reside near the hamlet just named.

The earliest death recalled was that of Jesse Clements, who fell a victim to the brutality of his son. The culprit was sentenced to the State prison, where, after repeated exhibitions of his murderous instinct, his existence finally

Hamilton

The little village of Hamilton (formerly known as Rabbit River), dates its first recorded event in 1835, when Charles Butler entered the whole section upon which it is located. It subsequently came into the possession of Anton Schorno, Chauncey W. Calkins, and Elnathan Judson. Simon Howe became the controller, under a contract, of a certain portion of the land, and, in connection with Col. John Littlejohn, built the saw-mill known throughout the county as the Rabbit River Mill, which contained both a circular and an upright saw. This mill was built in 1852, but the same year the dam gave out. It was in 1855 rebuilt by Col. Littlejohn, and subsequently purchased and controlled by Howe, by whom it was leased to Messrs. Allen & Jewett. In 1857, James B. Streeter managed it, and at the expiration of his period of ownership, embracing eighteen months, it became the property of H. M. Peck, who sold it to Robert M. Moore, by whom Henry Porter was employed to superintend the enterprise. In 1873 Charles R. Brownell, who had previously rented the property, purchased it, and is now the proprietor. The capacity of the mill is 12,000 feet per day.

The earliest settler was a man who was engaged to board the hands employed by the first owners of the mill. His name is not recalled. A shanty was erected for his convenience on the north side of the river, which for a brief time afforded shelter to all who came to the little hamlet.

G. B. Sheffield came from Ontario Co., N. Y., in 1852, and after a brief residence in Holland removed to Hamilton. He built a framed house, and was for a while employed in the mill. In 1858 he purchased a farm in the township of Fillmore, where he at present resides, though still transacting much business at the place of his early residence.

was employed as foreman in the saw-mill, and at nearly the same time Aaron Willards became interested in it, and was among the transient residents of the place. W. H. Mohn arrived later, from Wayne Co , Ohio, and settled in Hamilton. He removed with his family to a framed house that had been erected and vacated, and engaged in work at the mill. He afterwards followed his trade as a carpenter. Simeon Howe found for a short time a home in the family of Mr. Mohn. The population was at this time, and has been since, transient in character, very few of those employed in milling or lumbering having become permanent residents. The present supervisor, C. R. Brownell, is a resident of the place, where he is engaged in milling and other occupations. He removed from Allegan in 1866, where his father now resides. Mr. Brownell placed the writer under many obligations for aid in his researches after facts.

The Grist-Mill

In 1861 , George P. Heath built a grist-mill on Rabbit River, occupying the site of the present mill, and conducted it until 1867, when Frank Schorno purchased the property. While under the management of Lewis Schorno the mill was burned, and the site remained unoccupied until 1879, when Messrs. Kullen, Kepple & Co. purchased the site and erected one of the most complete grist-mills in the county. The interest of the first partner was soon after transferred to John Schipper, and the mill was in active operation during the same year. Its power is supplied by water from the river, and with four run of stone its utmost capacity is 100 barrels per day, though not often pressed to this limit. It has also a feed-stone, which is constantly in use. The latest improvements in making flour by the most recent process are adopted, and a ready market is found in Milwaukee, Boston, and portions of Illinois. The home market also makes large demands on this mill, 100 barrels per week being disposed of at Muskegon and Grand Haven.

Other Business

There are at Hamilton, in addition to the mill, two stores, containing a general stock of goods, kept by H. J. Fisher, who is also postmaster, and by Messrs. Kolvoort & Baker ; one hardware-store, owned by Benjamin Bosman ; a blacksmith-shop, kept by Hiram Lee ; a shoe-shop, by Eugene Lesperence ; and a cooper-shop, by Southwin. The school of the district is taught by Harry Sears. A bcndingworks doing an active business is owned by W. B. Lincoln, and a hotel built in 1872 is kept by C. M. Woodruff. The physician of the place is Dr. Charles H. Kimber, who is also the proprietor of a public hall which does credit to the enterprise of Hamilton.

SCHOOLS. The first school was opened in district No. 1, now embraced in that portion of the township known as Pine Plains. The second district embraced what was known as the Sadler neighborhood, a log school-house having been early built in this locality. None of the early teachers are remembered. Miss Mercy Bigsby was the first to instruct the little ones in district No. 1, though this territory would now be properly regarded as a portion of Pine Plains, and not within the province of a slceteh of the township of Heath. The third school was opened in district No. 3, and the school building formerly located on section 12 was removed to the township-line.

Heath is divided into one fractional and four whole districts, the board of directors being B. B. Martin, Jonathan Sadler, 0. S. Dowd, D. P. Veach, and C. M. Woodruff. There are four frame school buildings in the township, valued at $1430. The number of children who are instructed is 170, three male and six female teachers being employed in the various districts. They receive in salaries annually the sura of 1776. The total resources of the township for school purposes are $1329.02, of which $107.44 is derived from the primary school fund. EAKLY ROADS.

Soon after the Holland colony arrived in Michigan an effort was made to divert their trade to Allegan, and thereby secure a portion of the gold with which many of them were bountifully supplied. With that view, two highways were surveyed from Allegan, having Holland as their objective point, both of which traversed the soil of Heath. The first was known as the Duniont road, and was surveyed by John B. Dumont in 1847. It began at Peter Dumont's land, on section 6, in Allegan, to which point a road had been already surveyed from Allegan village, bore to the northwest through Pine Plains, and entered this township on section 36. It ran directly north, crossed the Rabbit River, and passed out of the township on the section-line between sections 1 and 2, on its way to Holland.

A railroad, known as the Bee-Line road, was projected by James M. Heath, which also had Holland as its terminus. It be^an near the residence of Maj. Heath, on section 12, in Pine Plains (then Heath), and, passing northwest into Heath, which it entered on section 35, ran diagonally through the township in a northwesterly direction, passing out near the northwest corner, on section 6. This highway was surveyed a few months later than the Dumont road, and had an equal share of the public travel.

DUNNINGVILLB. This hamlet was first settled by Andrew Whistler, who arrived early (the date is not remembered) and purchased the half of section 28, upon which he located a saw-mill. Bear Creek affording the water-power. He was accompanied by his nephew, John Whistler. After the mill had been established and conducted a brief time by Andrew Whistler, it was sold to Martin Miller and John Whistler. Their term of ownership was also brief, when it passed into the possession of Riley Granger, who in turn disposed of the property to Messrs. Dunning and Hopkins, of Saugatuck. Their successor was a party named Brewer, during whose ownership it was burned. The present owner, William Scott, then purchased the property, and erected on the d6bris of the old mill a new and more complete structure, which is now in successful operation. William A. Earl erected the first and only store in the place, which has since been closed. A. hotel affords hospitality to the traveler the landlord being William Scott, who is also postmaster. A religious society of Wesleyan Methodists exists in the place, who worship in the school-house on each alternate Sabbath, no church edifice having been erected. The district school is presided over by Nelson Young, whose skill as teacher has warranted his employment for a succession of years.

The Society of the Reformed (Dutch) Church at Over- ^ isel, having observed at this locality the want of conveniences for worship, determined upon the erection of a church edifice. Aided by subscriptions from the residents of the township, they erected the present building, and also a convenient parsonage, at a total cost of $3000. The work was done under the supervision of Rev. Gerret Dangremond, who after the dedication of the edifice was installed as its first pastor. He remained until 1871, when the pulpit was supplied by the Methodist .Conference. Rev. N. D. Marsh was the pastor from 1874 to 1876, when he was succeeded by Rev. H. D. Lawrence, who remained until 1878.

At present there is no regular organization, though services are held each alternate Sabbath by clergymen whose residences are adjacent to the place. A flourishing Sabbath-school, embracing 50 members and a corps of devoted teachers, is maintained, and much interest is manifested in the work. The superintendent is B. W. Lincoln, and the secretary C. R. Brownell.

Oeganization And Oeficers

The survey of the township of Heath was made by Calvin Britain, and completed on the 7th of March, 1831. It was formerly included in the township of Allegan, having been made an independent township by an act of the State Legislature approved March 18, 1851, which reads as follows : " That all that portion of territory lying east and north of the Kalamazoo River, in township 2 north, of range 14 west, together with the whole of township 3 north, of range 14 west, be and the same is hereby set off from the township of Allegan and organized into a separate township by the name of Heath, and that the first township-meeting therein shall be held at the house of James M. Heath, in said township." In 1871 its area was diminished by as much territory as is now embraced in Pine Plains, lying north of the Kalamazoo River, leaving it with a boundary six miles square. It was named in compliment to one of its early settlers, Maj. James M. Heath.

The earliest township-meeting of the township of Heath was held on the first Monday in April, 1851. The officers chosen were: Supervisor, James M. Heath; Township Clerk, John M. Heath ; Treasurer, George P. Heath ; Justices of the Peace, Simon Howe, Samuel Bigsby, James Albro,

Charles R. Brownell

John W. and Lovonia (Sadler) Brownell were natives of New York ^ who came to Allegan township in 1838 and engaged in farming. The subject of this sketch, Charles R. Brownell, was born Feb. 25, 1841, and continued at home and school until twenty-two years of age. He married Clarissa A. Moon, of Van Buren Co., Mich. One

(their only) child, Horace Brownell, born April 25, 1864, was left Mr. Brownell upon the death of his wife, in September, 1868, and is now attending college at Kalamazoo, Mich. Jan. 1, 1874, Mr. Brownell married Fidelia M. Spencer, daughter of Simeon and Mehitable (Baker) Spencer, known as one of the pioneers of Clinton Co., Mich. In 1873 Mr. Brownell purchased the Rabbit River Mills; previous to and since that date he has made several purchases of pine-lands, and has been quite extensively engaged in lumbering. At the present time he is preparing to engage largely in peach-culture. Aside from his business interests, Mr. Brownell has served his townsmen as supervisor and clerk since 1869 ; although not a politician, favors the Democratic party. Is known and recognized amono- a large circle of acquaintances and friends as a thorough and conscientious business man.

The parents of L. C. and Rozilla Lemoin were of French descent, and resided in Geauga Co., Ohio, where 0. J. Lemoin was born, Dec. 31, 1834, being the second son in a family of five children. In the year 1853 the family removed to De Kalb Co., 111., where they remained till the fall of 1855, when the scarcity of timber induced them to remove to Allegan Co., Mich., locating in the township of Heath. 0. J., not yet of age, purchased one hundred and twenty acres on section 24, making a small payment, and until 1859 devoted his time, winters, lumbering, summers returning to Illinois to work at his trade (masonry). December 9th of that year he married Harriet A., daughter of H. G. and Amanda M. Howlett, residents of Lee Co., III., and returned to his wilderness home in Michigan. In 1867 he purchased eighty acres on section 26, where he removed June 1, 1868. This, with an additional purchase of two hundred and eighty acres, constitutes his farm. Mr. Lemoin was influenced to his purchase, believing that the location and soil were adapted to fruit-culture, which has proved correct. He first began by planting three acres of peaches, pears, and grapes, increasing the acreage, until today he has over seventy acres planted. He may proudly call the reader's attention to his view as illustrative of the above. We append as the result of the union of these goodly people their family record : Frank F., born May 6, 1861 ; James E., born Nov. 4, 1864, died Nov. 1, 1865; Mary A., born Jan. 5, 1866, died in infancy; Rosilia A., born May 22, 1867 ; Cornelia C, born Deo. 20, 1869; Jenette M., born Aug. 29, 1874; Cora A., born Dec. 11, 1877; Fred H., born Oct. 23, 1879.

Natural Peatuees

Survey-township No. 3, range 12, constitutes the civil township of Hopkins. It is bounded on the west by Monterey, on the east by Wayland, on the north by Dorr, and on the south by Watson. It ranks among the foremost townships of the county in the quality of the land and in the amount of its crops, while its reputation as a sugar-producing district has extended beyond the limits of Allegan County.

Portions of the surface of Hopkins are level, though the larger part is undulating. Along the southern boundary and in the northwestern portion many hills and valleys are to be seen, which abound in picturesque and beautiful views. The level lands were earliest cleared, and are now covered by fine orchards and fertile fields of waving "-rain. On the west side of the township there is some swampy land, which, however, easily yields to the excellent system of drainage in use, and is rapidly being converted into productive acres.

A branch of Rabbit River enters the township at the northeast and another at the southeast corner. They unite on section 20, whence the combined stream passes out of the township near the northwest corner. These streams afibrd ample water-power for milling or other purposes. There are two or three lakes of great magnitude on sections 18 and 32, and numerous springs. The prevailing timber ' is beech, oak, basswood, elm, with a small quantity of pine in the northwestern portion.

The soil of Hopkins varies in difi'erent localities, but is well adapted to the growth of all grains, as well as most vegetables and fruits. A species of vegetable mould abounds in the swamps ; a strong clay subsoil is found on the level plains ; and sand and gravel, interspersed with clay, yield abunalant crops on the elevated ground.' The yield of wheat is quite equal to the average throughout the county, while oats are exceptional in their prolific growth. Much fine grazing-land is also found in this township, and the hay crop is generally extremely good. In the summer of 1873, 771 acres of wheat were harvested, which produced 9523 bushels of that grain, while 777 acres of corn yielded 18,770 bushels. Of other grains 14,404 bushels were produced. Since that time a large arel of land has been rendered available, and the crop of all grains is proportionally increased.'

Hopkins' especial boast, however, is its yield of maplesugar, not being approached in the production of this delicious article by any of its neighbors. In 1874, 103,650 pounds was made, over two tons having been the yield of a single grove. Very few farms are without a sugar-bush , and all the modern appliances are used for converting the sap into syrup, and afterwards into sugar.

Most varieties of fruit thrive ia Hopkins, especially the apple, which has yielded extraordinary crops in some of the orchards on the level lands. Grapes find here a congenial soil and a climate well adapted to their perfect growth.

The farm-residences of Hopkins, while making no pretensions to elegance, are substantial and usually spacious, with excellent barns and out-buildings. Occasionally a log cabin is seen, but these relics of pioneer days are fast disappearing. The township is admirably located for the purpose of exporting its products, the Kalamazoo division of the Lake-Shore and Michigan Southern Kailroad crossing the western portion, with two stations within its boundaries, while the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad runs within a mile of its eastern line. It has also two small villages, one of which is the centre of a considerable grain trafiSc.

Land-Entries

Peter Meier, David F. Heydenbeck. Section 4. - Bought in 1835 by Samuel Hubbard, ^ecft'on 5. - Bought in 1834, 1835, and 1836 by Samuel H. Sill,

Whithead, W. H. Parmalee, R. M. Congdon. Section 11. - Bought in 1839 by Glen and Phillips, C. H. Judson, Elder P. Dwight, Silas Chappel. Section 12. - Bought from 1852 to 1861 by Enoch Spencer, H. H. Pratt,

Chauncey White, Anna Haoket. Section 15. - Bought from 1836 to 1852 by F. Armitage, C. J. Lauman, Erastus Congdon, Lather Martin, C. P. Staats. Section 16. - Bought from 1854 to 1860 by N. N. Dpson, G. Parmalee,

Butler, George Brace, Cyrus Smith. Section 18. - Bought in 1835 by Silsbee and Frost. Section 19. - Bought from 1835 to 1854 by N. Silsbee, Elias Streeter,

Section 23. - Bought from 1837 to 1853 by Thomas Moshier, Nathaniel Barnard, Olive Alford, Salmon Kingsley, Abram Colman, Wainwright Rabbitt.

Section 26. - Bought from 1837 to 1853 by Morgan and Huntington, C. M. Kimball, Erastus Congdon, J. 0. Round, A. A. Ingerson, S. Kingsley, Jr., W. R. Ingerson.

Section 29. - Bought from 1836 to 1868 by Henry Dumont, Charles Benson, Justus Noble, Nathan Smith, Philo Van Keuren, A. Tice, Albert Lane, D. C. Ingerson, D. L. Hilliard, Ransom Durkee, J. M. Smith.

Seclion 32. - Bought from 1837 to 1855 by William C. Jenner,.D. C. Ingerson, John Stevenson, Leander Brewer, George N. Mason, E. G. Allen, Lewis Herlan, Charles Butler.

Section 34. - Bought from 1837 to 1858 by John I. Barnard, D. M. iind Laura Booth, Ralph Emerson, Fanny Richardson, Henry Powell, J. M. Baldwin, H. J. Baldwin, J. W. McFarland, John B.. Finkor, William Perkins.

Seclion 35. - Bought from 1837 to 1855 by Henry Barnard, J. I. Lardncr, Nelson Corbett, Edwin Daily, Jr., Mary J. Corbctt, Sylvester Finker, Ira Hill, I. M. Perkins, William Simmons.

Eaely Settlements

As late as the fore-part of the year 1838 the area now embraced in the township of Hopkins was an unbroken wilderness, and the only inhabitants were the deer, the wolf, and other wild animals, and their formidable foe the red man.

During the year above mentioned, Jonathan Olin Round, a native of Vermont, and latterly a resident of Kalamazoo County, made his advent as the first settler of Hopkins. Mr. Round had come the previous year and located the southwest quarter of section 26, where he had erected a lo" cabin and made a small clearing, so that a rude home was ready for his family when they arrived in 1838. The life of the Round family was, until the arrival of the next settlers, an extremely isolated one, it being no less than five miles to the nearest neighbor. Mr. Round's first clearin"- was necessarily very roughly done, and his first crops grew up scattered here and there among not only stumps, but loo-s. His corn was husked in the fields, beside a blazing fire of logs. He dryly remarks that he gave no invitation to husking-bees, as there were no neighbors to respond.

In the family of Mr. Round occurred the first birth in the township, that of his daughter, Sarah A. Round, now Mrs. William S. Kenfield, who was born in 1838. In June 1839, Mr. and Mrs. Round were afflicted by the death of their son, Oziel Hopkins Round, aged two and a half years, his being the first death in the township. Mr.

and Mrs. Round still enjoy a vigorous old age, surrounded by their children, in tlie pleasant homo in Hopkins which they made for themselves out of the wilderness.

In the fall of 1838 came Erastus Congdon, who built a cabin on section 26, the northwest quarter of which he purchased, and on which, a year later, he became a permanent resident. He was also a Vermonter, and had been a temporary resident in Kalamazoo County, where he arrived in company with Mr. Round. Mr. Congdon was afterwards the first postmaster in the township. His death occurred at Hopkins in 1871, where his two sons, Albert P. and Erastus B. Congdon, now reside.

Among the earliest pioneers of Hopkins were Esek Baker and two sons, Harvey N. and Jason Baker, the first of whom entered 160 acres of land on section 28 in 1837, to which he subsequently added 40 acres. Harvey N. Baker had been a resident of Canada previously to 1836, when he came to Michigan. After a short stay in Martin he removed to Hopkins in 1838, having also located on section 28. While residing in Martin he had built a log house and made some advances towards clearing his land. Jason Baker is the only survivor of the family, and still occupies the old homestead, which he has made one of the most productive farms in the township. Jackson Baker, a son of Harvey N. Baker, resides in Hopkins, on section 3, where he has 100 acres, which he purchased in 1854.

The first wedding in the township occurred at the house of Mr. Esek Baker, the parties being his daughter, Miss Huldah Baker, and Mr. John Lardner.

John J. Lardner arrived in 1841, and purchased 120 acres on section 35, and an additional 40 in the adjoinin"- townsliip of Watson. He found the same obstacles awaiting him that had been encountered by his predecessors, but devoted much energy to the work of improving his land. Subsequently he purchased a farm in Kalamazoo County, and made it his readence.

William Tyler followed soon after, and found a home upon 80 acres on section 29. John Hicks was also a pioneer of about the same period, but does not appear to have become a land-owner on his arrival. Nelson Corbitt and his family made their weary and tedious way to Hopkins with an ox-team in the fall of 1846. On section 35 he purchased 120 acres, and the family obtained shelter at the log house of Jonathan 0. Round until quarters could be erected on their own land. Mr. Corbitt went to work resolutely to clear his place, but did not long survive his advent. His death occurred in the fall of 1850, and his estate, with his heritage of hard labor, passed to his son. The latter died in 1878, and left the farm in possession of his widow, who now resides upon it.

John Parsons became a resident upon 1 60 acres on section 1 in 1843, and William H. Warner purchased and occupied 40 acres upon section 15 the year following, which they both improved.

For many years there was little emigration to Hopkins, although the neighboring townships were being rapidly populated, Ip 1853 and 1854, however, a considerable number of emigrants arrivcil from Ohio, who located within a convenient distance fioni the centre of the township, and christened the locality " Ohio Corners.''

Joel Button, a former resident of Cuyahoga Co., Ohio, located in 1853 upon 80 acres on section 15, to which he afterwards added 80 more. It was partially cleared, and a log house had been erected upon it by Luther Martin, who, after a brief residence, had removed to Indiana. J. P. Lindsley arrived with his neighbor, Mr. Button, in 1853, and found a homo on 30 acres of .xeciii)n 33. He was one of the Ohio (.-ulnny, and purchased of Zenas Pratt, who moved to another part of the township. James E. Parmalee, formerly of Summit Co., Ohio, located in 1854 upon 80 acres on section 22. He was a carpenter by trade, and found many demands made upon his time and skill. Mr. Parmalee erected a substantial frame house upon his farm, and also speedily demonstrated that the labors of the husbandman were no less congenial to him than those of the carpenter. H is nearest neighbors were Edward Barbarow, who purchased 50 acres on section 23 (where he died in 1850), and J. P. Lindsley, already mentioned.

At nearly the same time came William H. Parmalee, who located 120 acres upon sections 9 and 10, which he cleared and improved. He participated actively in public afi'airs, and held many offices of trust in the township.

Among the leading citizens of German descent in the township are the family of Hoffmasters, who removed from Mahoning Co., Ohio, in 1854. John Hoffmaster purchased 80 acres on section 1 9, and placed his family under the care of a brother in Monterey while he erected a comfortable habitation for their occupancy. He at once began the labor of improving his land, doing all this labor with his own hands, as he had neither oxen nor horses to assist in the operation. His nearest neighbor was Konrad Krug, who preceded him from Ohio in 1853, and had settled upon 120 acres on section 19, where he still resides. Mr. Hoffmaster still lives in Hopkins, but has recently moved to the southeast portion of the township.

Gotlieb Hoffmaster, a native of Wittenberg, Germany, emigrated to America with his father in 1817, and arrived in Hopkins in 1854. He purchased 80 acres on section 20, and the log house of his brother John gave him temporary shelter until he could build one of his own. He, too, is still a resident of the township.

Joseph Hoffmaster arrived in 1855, and at once secured 320 acres on section 18. He was the eldest of the brothers, and had accumulated property in Ohio, which of course greatly aided him in his Michigan experience. He lived upon the farm until his death, in 1873, having previously divided his property among his children.

Albert Lane, another Ohio pioneer, came from Summit County, in that State, in 1854, purchased 80 acres on section 22, 120 acres on section 27, and 80 acres on section 29. On section 27 a log house had already been built and 10 acres chopped. This dispensed with much of the preliminary labor of the settler, and enabled Mr. Lane to make rapid progress. Forty acres of cleared land was the result of his first year of toil. His nearest neighbors were Jason Baker and Seralpha C. Buck, the latter of whom had preceded him and located upon 115 acres on section 27. Mr.

H. F. White, another member of the Ohio colony, arrived in 1854, and chose a residence upon section 22, where he purchased 80 acres of unimproved land. As Mr. White had no team, he could improve his land but slowly, his first planting being done without any plowing whatever.

Luther Martin early located on section 15, where he owned 50 acres, which he cleared up. He then repaired to section 23, and finally removed to Indiana, where he died.

Alonzo Button arrived from Cuyahoga Co., Ohio, in 1855, and purchased 240 acres on section 14, a small portion of which had been cleared. He still lives on the place he originally selected.

Among the enterprising pioneers of 1854 were Abram, Peter, and Eliphalet Buskirk, who like so many others had been residents of Ohio. Abram and Peter purchased land on section 23, the former owning 40 and the latter 60 acres. Eliphalet, however, made his home upon 80 acres on section 13. They devoted themselves to improving their farms, and all still occupy their original locations, upon which inviting frame houses have since been built. William Buskirk came one year later, and purchased 160 acres on section 24, where he now resides.

Dr. James M. Baldwin became a resident of the township in 1853, and immediately began the practice of his profession. Previous to this date the health of the townspeople was cared for by Drs. Briggs and Bradley, of Wayland.

S. W. Mankin, a native of Columbiana Co., Ohio, with his wife and three children, emigrated to Hopkins in the fall of 1853, and purchased of Jonathan Brewer 80 acres on section 28. After converting the uncultivated land of 1853 into a fine farm, Mr. Mankin moved to Hopkins' Station in 1877, leaving his place in charge of his son. At the station he engaged in carrying on the business of blacksmithing and repairing wagons.

William R. Ingerson, a native of Vermont, emigrated to Michigan, in 1850, and purchased land near Jonathan 0. Round, where he still resides. His brother, D. C. Ingerson, came in 1854, and located 160 acres on section 24, where he now lives. They have met with the success that always follows persistent and Well-directed efforts. L. A. Atwater became a resident of Hopkins in 1856. He worked several years in R. A. Baird's saw-mill. He purchased 50 acres of land on section 14 from Alonzo Button, subsequently added 40 more, and finally moved on to his place in 1863.

Robert Ashley Baird arrived from Ohio in 1856, and in connection with Dr. E. H. Wait erected a steam saw-mill, the first in the township, on section 26, of which he soon became the sole manager. Afterwards he purchased a farm upon the adjoining section, on which he resided until his death, in 1872. His widow still occupies the place. His brother, J. A. Baird, also arrived in 1850, and two years later secured 80 acres on section 15. The nearest neighbor at this time was J. H. Avery, who was then located upon section 15, but has since removed to Monterey. Mr. Baird's highly-cultivated farm and attractive appurtenances are evidence of his success in agricultural pursuits.

Samuel Eggleston, formerly of Geauga Co., Ohio, settled in 1858 upon 80«acres of wild hind on section 9. William Parmelee's hospitality was gladly accepted while Mr. Eggleston was engaged in erecting a habitation of his own. There were no near neighbors, with the e.xoeption of William Frue on the same section, whose death occurred in 1860. Mr. Eggleston is still a resident of the township.

Among other settlers who arrived as early as 1853, or earlier, were Jonathan Brewer, who located 80 acres on section 28 ; John Breslin, who resided on section 32 ; R. B. Congdon, who purchased 80 acres on section 28 ; D. C. Ingerson ; I. Joy, who settled upon 160 acres on section 24 ; Hiram Loomis, who located on section 14 ; John Parsons, whose farm embraced 160 acres on section 1 ; John Truax, who owned 80 acres on section 3 ; Matthew Van Dusen, who made his home on section 1 ; Thomas Wilson, Benjamin Truax, Chester B. Storrs, and Edward Daily, Jr. Many of these gentlemen were active in^promoting the interests of the township, but it is impracticable to go into further details.

Hopkins, like other Michigan townships, could not display much wealth in its early days, and, perhaps on account of its slow settlement, had a longer struggle with poverty than some townships whose prosperity is not now equal to its own. Johnny-cake was the staple article of diet, and a tattered garment did not prove an obstacle to admission to the best society of Hopkins. Many barefooted worshipers were seen at the religious services on Sabbath, and William Wheeler, who conducted the exercises in the log schoolhouse in district No. 2, frequently oflBciated without coat or shoes. Poverty in the primitive days of the township history was accomoaniea with nc disgrace.

The earliest recorded highways were surveyed in 1840, the line of the first road being laid out by S. Barber, in April of that year. It pursued the following course :

*' Commencing at the northeast corner of section two, in township four north, of range twelve west, in Allegan County and State of Michigan ; from thence south five miles to the northeast corner of section thirtyfive; from thence south forty-five degrees west to the southwest corner of the above-named section, all in the above-named township ; thence south between sections two and three in township three north, of range twelve wdSt, one mile to the northeast corner of section ten ; thence south forty-five degrees west one hundred and thirteen chains, to the northeast corner of section sixteen ; thence south sixty-three chains to an iron-wood post, distant from a white-oak tree twenty-four inches in diameter ninety-seven links, course from post to tree being north forty-four degrees west; thence south seventy-eight degrees east four chains one hundred and twenty-five links, to a beech-tree three inches in diameter, distant from an elm-tree twelve inches in diameter fifty-six links north forty-eight degrees east; thence south thirty-one degrees five minutes east three chains and forty-six links, to a thorn-apple post three inches in diameter, standing on the north bank of Rabbit River, distant eighty-five links."

The next road began at the northwest corner of section 28, in township 3, range 12, running thence east on the section-line one mile, to the northeast corner of the same section. This road was surveyed by R. T. M. Wells. The record of its adoption is dated April 16, 1840, and is signed by William S. Miner and Clark Corey, as highway commissioners.

The first account of any action taken by the people of Hopkins in reference to schools is in the township records, from which the following items are gleaned :

A meeting was held at the house of Erastus Congdon on Tuesday, the 1st day of October, 1844, and a contract for the construction of the first school building in Hopkins was awarded to Jason Baker, for which he received the sum of $26.50. The earliest school was opened on the 16th day of December, 1844, Miss Josephine Wait being the teacher. This building was erected in district No. 1, and was known as the " Round School-house," from the fact of its having been adjacent to the residence of J. 0. Round, the earliest settler in Hopkins. It was many years before a second school building was erected. The township is now divided into ten whole school districts and one fractional one, with the following board of directors: Frederick Hodge, Charles W. Button, N. W. Smith, Aaron Kroug, Edward Scofield, H. Avery, W. H. Parmelee, Henry Buskirk, L. C. Chadwick, R. L. Taylor, and James Huttlcston. There are nine framed school-houses and one of logs, where 443 scholars receive instruction. The salaries of the teachers amount to $1796.50 annually.

Hopkins Station

HOPKINS STATION. The hamlet known as Hopkins Station is built on section 19, and principally known as a station of the Kalamazoo division of the Lake-Shore and Michigan Southern Railroad. The site was originally owned by John Hoffmaster, who purchased the land in 1854, and afterwards sold it to his nephews, John and Philip Hofimaster. The railroad company established a station there in 1871, and appointed Royal L. Taylor its agent, who found a temporary habitation in the log house originally erected by John Hoffmaster. In 1872 the first framed house was erected by Henry Guyott. Two years later Mr. Taylor built a house and store, the latter of which was filled with goods before it was supplied with doors and windows. Messrs, Burnip & Iliff had previously built a cabin, which was temporarily used for the sale of a small stock of groceries. Mr. S. A. Buck, whose advent occurred in 1873, had previously been a resident of Kent County. He purchased 10 acres of the Hoffmasters, a plat of which was recorded on the 17th of October, 1874. John Hoffmaster recorded an addition on the 10th of March, 1876, and another was made by George Wise on the l'2th of May, 1877. In the fall of 1873, Mr. Buck built a wagon- and blacksmith-shop and engaged actively in business, meanwhile erecting buildings and generally advancing the interests of the place.

The hamlet has since become of considerable importance. Its leading places of business are a hotel, formerly kept by Abram Hoffmaster, and now managed by Wendle Ederly ; a saw- mill, owned by Cooper & Konkle; a broomhandle factory ; three general stores, owned respectively by John Bragenten, J. H. Luddington, and Messrs. Furber & Kidder; a harness-shop, the proprietor of which is S. V. Bourne ; a tin-shop, kept by Andrew Bee, who enjoys considerable fame as one of the heroes of the Jefferson Davis capture; two blacksmith-shops, carried on by S. W. Mankin and Abram Naggell; a wagon-shop, owned by George I

Pratt ; the two millinery-stores of Mrs. L. E. Reed and Mrs. J. H. Luddington ; and a market, kept by Walter Kibby. The public school of the district, kept by Miss Russell, is also located here.

A post-office was early established at Hopkins Station, Henry Guyott having been the first postmaster. Royal L. Taylor now holds the appointment. The physicians of the place are Drs. Luddington and Leighton.

The original owners of the land embraced in the present village of Hopkins were Erastus Congdon and Elder Buck. In 1856, Dr. E. H. Wait purchased a tract of Mr. Congdon, and in connection with Robert A. Baird erected a steam saw-mill, which was soon after entirely controlled by the latter gentleman. Dr. Wait meanwhile erected a store, and placed in it a stock of goods. This business he conducted for several years, and then sold to William Richmond, who in 1861 built a flouring-mill and began to operate it. Mr. Richmond disposed of his interest in the store to a Mr. Salisbury, who, however, sold it to its former owner. It finally became the property of parties residing at Kalamazoo. The building was then rented, and was ultimately purchased by Messrs. Aldrich & Baker. On the retirement of Mr. Baker, the firm became Aldrich & Owen.

The second store in the hamlet was built by Messrs. Hopper & Smith, who engaged for a while in business', and had a liberal trade, but at length disposed of the property and departed for Nebraska.

Dr. William K. Darling arrived in 1872, having previously enjoyed an extensive practice in Otsego. For five years after his arrival in Hopkins he followed his profession, when ill health compelled him to relinquish its arduous duties. He then engaged in mercantile pursuits, building the store he now occupies, and placed in it an extensive stock of drugs and groceries. This business he still carries on.

Charles S. Chadwick purchased, in 1878, (he building erected by Dr. B. H. Wait, and is now extensively engaged in trade. He is also the postmaster of the village.

Ira Hill conducts a hardware business, and Thomas Hicks has a blacksmith-shop. He was one of the pioneers of 1857, having arrived in the county as early as 1839. Dr. U. R. Fox and Dr. Lafayette Stuck are the practicing physicians of this locality. The public school is taught by Martin Baldwin.

Congregational Chuech

CONGREGATIONAL CHUECH. The earliest religious meetings preparatory to the organization of a society were conducted in the various schoolhouses of the township, clergymen of the Methodist Church and the Church of the Disciples having officiated. A society under the auspices of the Congregational Church was formed Aug. 4, 1857, embracing 13 members, the first meeting having been held at the Red school-house in school district No. 1. On this occasion the Rev. Edward Taylor, of Kalamazoo, delivered the formal sermon, while Rev. Thomas Jones and Rev. E. Andrew assisted in the exercises. John Parsons and William H. Parmalee were at this time chosen as the first deacons. The little band continued to worship in the Red school-house, varying the routine by occasional services in the school building in district' No. 2. until 1860, when an effort was made to erect a church edifice. This undertaking was successfully accomplished, and $700 cheerfully subscribed to defray the expense of building. The structure was enlarged to meet the growing wants of the people in 1871, and the amount necessary very readily obtained. The pastors in succession since the organization of the church have been Revs. James A. McKay, D. W. Comstock, Lewis E. Sikes, S. W. Noycs, Thomas Nield, and J. S. Kidder.

Wesleyan Methodist Church

A class under the auspices of this denomination was organized in 1873 by C. G. Fero, services having been held in the school-house on section 32. These services were continued under the successive ministrations of Elders Harvey Johnson and J. Burke, who is the present pastor.

The school building, which had for a season been the place of meeting of this small body of worshipers, was finally purchased by them, remodeled, and converted into a neat and attractive church edifice, in which services are now held semi-monthly. A flourishing Sabbath-school is also connected with the society.

HOPKINS LODGE, No. 270, I. O. 0. F. This lodge was organized Feb. 19, 1876, with the following charter members : James Armstrong, A. P. Varney, C. B. Eldred, E. B. Congdon, Richard Redhead, U. R. Fox, John Hicks, Erwin Hill, William Edgell, Thomas Hicks, M. T. Smith, H. M. Baker, and George Blake. Its first officers were James Armstrong, N. G. ; C. B. Eldred, V. G. ; U. R. Fox, Recording Sec. ; Richard Redhead, Permanent Sec. ; Thomas Hicks, Treas. The present officers are James Witter, N. G. ; S. M. Eggleston, V. G. ; E. B. Congdon, Recording Sec. ; Frank White, Permanent Sec. ; Robert Frea, Treas. The lodge embraces a membership of 38, and holds its meetings in a hall erected for the purpose and leased by its members.

Hopkins Grange was organized as early as 1874, with the following officers: Silas W. Mankin, Master; J. M. Baldwin, Overseer; Samuel Baldwin, Steward; Jonathan Brewer, Lecturer ; William Edgell, Chaplain ; Horatio Hodge, Treas. ; Erastus Congdon, Sec. The present officers are Erastus Congdon, Master; Martin Smith, Overseer; William Edgell, Steward ; G. M. Baldwin, Lecturer ; Albert Congdon, Treas. ; Mary Edgell, Sec. The meetings of the Hopkins Grange are held weekly in the school building of district No. 9, 60 members being enrolled on its

Capt. Lonson Hilliard, a previous resident of the Dominion of Canada, located in the township in 1860, having formerly been an extensive operator in lumber in Kalamazoo and adjacent portions of the State. He purchased 160 acres on section 5, which was then covered with a heavy growth of timber, very little of it having yet been cut. A saw-mill had already been erected on the Rabbit River by a man named Potter.

Capt. Hilliard, finding this a favorable locality in which to carry on lumbering interests, increased his purchases of land until he owned nearly 2000 acres. He erected a frame residence, and then devoted himself with his accustomed energy to business pursuits until his death, which occurred in 1871. Mrs. Hilliard still resides upon the homestead.

Capt. Hilliard had in early life attained a high reputation as a skillful navigator upon the St. Lawrence River. A successful voyage in 1840 won for him the admiration of the men of his craft and a handsome testimonial bearing the following inscription :

*' Presented to Capt. L. Hilliard by John Hamilton, to commemorate the safe arrival of the steamboat 'Ontario' at Montreal from Prescott, tipper Canada, being the first descent over the rapids of the St. Lawrence by steam.

The station of Hilliard's, on the Kalamazoo division of the Lake-Shore and Michigan Southern Railroad, now bears the name of this enterprising pioneer. Three sons are still residents of the township. William H. is the proprietor of the mill which is converted into a handle-factory, Eugene is engaged in mercantile pursuits, and David L. cultivates the farm. A fourth son, Charles H., is a resident of Ottawa County. At the station are two stores, owned respectively by Woodhams & Hilliard and Foot & Mudget ; a blacksmith-shop, owned by George Lewis ; a saw-mill, owned by Willard Sadler ; a stave-factory, the proprietor of which is D. W. Lankton ; and a shoe-shop, kept by Charles Armstrong.

Organization And Officers

The subdivision lines of the survey of survey-township No. 3 north, of range 12 west, were run by Lucius Lyon, being finished on the 14th of September, 1831. Township 3 was at first a part of the township of Allegan, and then Otsego, which included the four townships in range 12. After two divisions of that territory, - the first separating the three northern townships from Otsego and organizing them as Watson, and the second severing the two northern from Watson under the name of Dorr, - No. 3 was set off from Dorr and separately organized by the following ordinance :

" At a meeting of the board of supervisors, held Dec. 29, 1852, it is ordered by the board of supervisors of the county of Allegan, twothirds of all the members voting therefor, that township No. 3 north, of range 12 west, in the said county, be, and the same is, hereby set off from the township of Dorr, and organized into a separate township by the name of 'Hopkins,' and that the first township-meeting for the election of township oficers shall be held at the school-house known as the * Round School-house,' in said township, on the first Monday in April next, and Luther Martin, Jason Baker, and Erastus Congdon are hereby appointed to act as inspectors of election at said township-meeting. It is further ordered that the next townshipmeeting, in and for the township of Dorr, shall be held at the dwellinghouse now occupied by Orrin Goodspeed, in said township."

The first annual township-meeting of Hopkins was held at the log school-house on section 26, in school district No. 1. Luther Martin, Jason Baker, and Erastus Cong- don were chosen inspectors of election, and the following ofificers were elected : Supervisor, J. 0. Round ; Township Clerk, John Parsons ; Treasurer, Erastus Congdon ; Highway Commissioners, Hiram Loomis, William R. Ingerson ; Justices of the Peace, John Truax, Jason Baker; School Inspectors, D. C. Ingerson, M. Vanduzen ; Directors of the Poor, Thomas Wilson, T. J. Crampton ; Constables, 0. Perry, W. R. Ingerson.

Jonathan Olin Round

The name of Round is associated with the earliest efforts of the patriots of 1776 to establish freedom in the colonies. The grandparents of Mr. Jonathan 0. Round were George and Martha Hopkins Round. The first participated in the war of the Revolution, and the second was a sister of Stephen Hopkins, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. The father was Oziel Hopkins Round, and the mother Anna Olin, a descendant of Chief Justice Theophilus Harrington, of Vermont, who replied when requested to return a fugitive slave he harbored, " If you have a bill of sale from God Almighty, you can take this negro ; otherwise, not." The foregoing names very aptly illustrate the character of the stock from which Mr. Round is descended. He was the first son in a family of fourteen children, and was born in Clarendon, Rutland Co., Vt., Oct. 10, 1809. At the age of twenty-one years he married Miss Sallie Congdon, who was born July 10, 1810, and was also a resident of Clarendon, Vt.

In May, 1834, Mr. Round followed the tide of emigration to Michigan, and purchased one hundred and fourteen acres in Kalamazoo township and county. Comstock township afforded them a temporary home, where the material for a house was constructed and floated down the Kalamazoo River to its destination. To this he removed his family, having been accompanied by his brother-in-law, Erastus Congdon. In the spring of 1837, while prospect- ing, he became impressed with the excellence of the land in Hopkins, and Mr. Round located the southwest quarter of section 26 in that township.

A log cabin was erected during the fall of the same year, in which the family were comfortably housed the succeeding spring. Mr. Round continued his agricultural employments until the year 1877, when he retired from active labor and removed to his present home in the hamlet of Hopkins. Mr. and Mrs. Round have been blessed with an old-fashioned number in their family, having nine children, who were born in the following order : RoUin C, born July 13, 1831 ; Avis Ann, born Nov. 1, 1832 (now Mrs. W. B. Andrews) ; Henry C, born July 27, 1834 ; Oziel H., born Nov. 25, 1836, died in his second year; Sarah Ann, born Nov. 5, 1838 (now Mrs. Wm. Kenfield) ; Joseph R., born Oct. 8, 1840, died while serving in the late war ; Amelia S., born Dec. 26, 1842, died in her nineteenth year ; Delia E., born July 1, 1844 (now Mrs. J. A. Lawrence) ; Olive M., born May 1, 1846 (wife of Lyman A. Atwater).

Mr. Round has been for successive terms elected supervisor, and while acting as assessor severely injured his sight by devotion to his arduous duties.

Mr. and Mrs. Round are now enjoying the autumn of their lives among their children and friends that surround them, age having no perceptible effect upon their cheerful and elastic spirits.

R. C. Round

The above-named gentleman is the son of Jonathan Olin Round, the earliest pioneer in Hopkins, and was born July 13, 1831, being a lad of six years on the arrival of the family in the wilderness then embraced in the township. At the age of twenty he became ambitious for a more extended and independent sphere of usefulness than his home afforded, and purchased forty acres on section 36. A year later he added an additional forty acres, erected a log house, and planted his first crop.

In May, 1854, Mr. Round was united in marriage to Miss Zarada Andrews, whose parents, Norton and Caroline (Root) Andrews, were residents of Hopkins. In the midst of prosperity and happiness death entered the family circle, and on Dec. 13, 1877, Mrs. Round was "summoned to that bourne from whence no traveler returns." Their surviving daughter, Clara A., since the death of her mother, has assumed the entire responsibility of the household economy. Mr. Round has been persevering and energetic, and now enjoys a highly-cultivated estate and an attractive home as the result of his laudable efforts. This is the more gratifying since many obstacles were met during his career, all of which his buoyant nature and unfailing resources enabled him to overcome.

James M. Baldwin, M.D.

JAMES M. BALDWIN, M.D. Dr. Baldwin was a native of Portage Co., Ohio, where he was born Dec. 4, 1810. He early acquired the trade of a blacksmith, and devoted to it the energy which was characteristic of his nature. Having been unfortunate in losing the use of one wrist, he was induced to abandon his trade for th« profession of medicine. He graduated from the Cleveland Medical College, and began practice in Solon, Cuyahoga Co., in 1851. Two years later he removed with his family to the township of Hopkins, where he had previously located two hundred and eighty acres of land. In January, 1 833, Dr. Baldwin was married to Miss Jane Bissell, of Portage Co., Ohio. Two sons were born, - James H., whose birth occurred July 13, 1835, and G. M., born Dec. 15, 1836. An adopted daughter. Miss Ellen D. Patterson, was also a member of the family circle. On his arrival in Michigan the doctor at once began the arduous duties of his profession, which were supplemented by his farming interests, in which he was greatly aided by the younger son. The country was then in an almost primitive condition, which rendered the practice of medicine one of much hardship. In 1865 he relinquished these active duties as a result of failing health, and his death occurred some years later, superinduced, no doubt, by excessive toil. His son, G. M., succeeded to the possession of the homestead. He was married Nov. 7, 1858, to Miss Mary E. Ingerson, and has a family of three children, - Martha J., born Sept. 20, 1859, now Mrs. Buck, of Allegan; Lotta A., whose birth occurred June 1, 1868; and Blanch A., born Aug. 31, 1875. James H. Baldwin is a prominent citizen of Indianapolis, Ind. The venerable mother still resides upon the homestead.

During the year 1836, Jared and Sarah Alderman Atwater, who were natives of the State of Connecticut, removed to Summit Co., Ohio, where their son, L. A. Atwater, was born, Dec. 25, 1836. In the year 1856 the family removed to Kalamazoo Co., Mich., and after a residence of nine years at the county-seat repaired to Hopkins, Allegan Co. The father of Mr. L. A. Atwater died in March, 1873, and his wife survived him but three years, her death having occurred in 1876. On his arrival the son sought employment with Robert A. Baird, of Hopkins, and in 1856 he purchased fifty acres of land of Alonzo Button, on section 14, on which he afterwards erected his buildings, making occasional payments as the opportunity offered from his annual earnings. He was married, Jan. 11, 1863, to Miss Olive, daughter of Jonathan Olin Bound, and, having added forty acres in same section, bought of R. A. Baird in 1860, to the original purchase, the young pioneers began with a will the arduous labor of improving their land and making for themselves an invitin" home. Mr. Atwater has erected a convenient and tasteful residence on the land, a view of which accompanies this brief sketch.

Mr. and Mrs. Atwater have three children, the eldest, Olin J., having been born April 10, 1866. Ida D., the only daughter, was born Sept. 9, 1867, and the birth of the younger, Fred R., occurred Oct. 10, 1870. Mr. Atwater comes of distinguished lineage, a genealogy of the family having been published some years since. The limits of this sketch will not admit of more than an allusion to this interesting compilation,

William S. Kenpielb William S. Kenfield

Mr. Kenfield may with pardonable pride refer to the career of his grandfather, Erastus Kenfield, who was one of the stalwart soldiers of the Revolution, and at the close of the conflict retired to Hampshire Co., Mass., where he survived until his eighty-third year. The father of William S., who bore his parent's name, Erastus, was born Feb. 19, 1801, at Belcher, Hampshire Co., Mass., and spent his early days in agricultural pursuits. He was wedded to Miss Clarissa Piper in November, 1828, a native of Glastenbury. Conn., whose father, Samuel Piper, was a man of ferwd patriotism and suffered severely from a wound received during his service in the war of 1776. Erastus, Jr., and his wife resided in Hampshire County until 1834, when they became pioneers to Ohio, having purchased unimproved land in Medina County in that State. He still resides upon this farm at the age of seventy-nine years, while his companion has reached her seventy-fourth year.

William S., th« second son, was born in Belcher, Berkshire Co., Mass., March 28, 1831. After a varied career of industry in the Buckeye State and' in the county of his birth in Massachusetts, he followed the tide of emigration to the West in 1854.

During a temporary residence in Wayland, Mich., he married Miss Sarah A. Round, who was the first white child born in the township of Hopkins, their marriage having occjirred July 3, 1858.

Soon after, Mr. and Mrs. Kenfield located in Hopkins, upon a farm of eighty acres, on section 12. It was at this early date little else than a wilderness, but industry-and a spirit of progress, which has been evinced to a remarkable degree, have changed it to a productive and inviting home. One child graces their cheerful fireside, - Carrie A., born Deo. 20, 1859.

James E. Parmelee

Alfred and Sylvia (Rutley) Parmelce were each born in Middlesex Co., Conn., in 1798 and 1799, respectively, where they were united in marriage in 1823. Their son, James E., whose life forms the subject of this brief biographical sketch, was the third of seven children, having been born in the year 1828. During his third year he became, with his parents, a resident of Summit Co., Ohio, and later of Clay Co., Ind.

After a brief residence in the latter State he was left fatherless, and the mother, not having formed attachments in her new home, determined to return to her friends in Ohio. James remained with the family until twentyone, when he became ambitious for a more independent life. He attained proficiency in the occupation of a carpenter and joiner, and for five years labored assiduously at his trade. With the accumulation of these years he embarked for Michigan, and chose a home in Hopkins in the spring of 1854. The eighty unimproved acres which he purchased, evinced in its rapidly improved condition his energy. He in 1858 erected .a comfortable residence (a view of which will be found on another page), and speedily returned to Ohio to bring to it a wife. Mrs. Parmelee was formerly Miss Catharine White, daughter of Hanford White, Esq., who was born in Middlesex Co., Conn., in 1797, and married in April, 1822, Miss Hepzabah Pratt. Of a family of seven children, Mrs. Parmelee is the fifth. Mr. Parmelee has added to the dimensions of the farm since the first purchase, which now embracer a sugar-grove of nine hundred trees that has been for years remarkably productive. The buildings upon this fine estate were erected by him personally. Their pleasant home is enlivened by the presence of two children, - Gilbert li., born June 6, 18G0, and Otis A., whose birth occurred June 19, 1864.

Philip Heklan

a family of three children, who arrived in 1832, and at once repaired to Erie Co., N. Y., where she purchased a small tract of land. Philip was the sixth child in order of birth, and a mere lad on his arrival. Being well advanced in years, the mother deeded her property to the elder son, leaving the remaining two without an inheritance. Endowed, however, with good health and a determination to succeed, Philip, at the age of fourteen, left the home, and barefooted pursued his way in search of employment. He reached Jonesville, Cattaraugus Co., where he remained three years, and then returned to his former residence. In 1838 he purchased sixty acres of timbered land and built a house, to which his mother soon repaired as the presiding genius of the family cirtle. In January, 1842, he was married to Miss Margaret Zapp, a lady also of German extraction. In 18't4 he removed to Calhoun Co., Mich., and later to Kalamazoo County, where he engaged with D. S. Walbridge in a flouring-mill. This em^ployment was followed until 1857, when he removed to Hopkins upon three hundred and twenty acres of land previously purchased. In this wilderness he erected a log cabin and began the work of clearing.

Mrs. Herlan died June 12, 1870, leaving a- family of five children. Their family circle formerly embraced seven children, - two having died, - their names and births as follows: George L., born May 28, 1845; Mary C, born Feb 8 1847 ; Alvina C, who died May 4, 1874, having been born April 8, 1848; David P., born Oct. 5, 1851 ; John F., whose birth occurred Nov. 28, 1852, and his death Oct. 14, 1875. Mr. Herlan in August, 1871, married Miss Mary Moge, of Allegan, also a native of Germany, from whence she emigrated in 1870 to the United States.

At the present time his elder children are all living, and comfortably established in homes of their own given by a generous parent. Mr. and Mrs. Herlan have one daughter, Mena B., born April 25, 1874.

Erastus Congdon

ERASTUS CONGDON. Erastus Congdon was the third of six children of George and Sallie Palmer Congdon, and was born Feb. 20, 1799, in Clarendon, Vt. In 1823, having grown to manhood, he emigrated to Yates Co., N. Y., where he was married to Miss Emma Sperry, in the fall of 1830, a native of Bennington, Vt. Mr. and Mrs. Congdon remained in the Empire State until 1834, when the vast resources of the West attracted them, and influenced their removal to Michigan, where they purchased a tract of land in Kalamazoo County.

Eeastus Congdon

In the spring of 1839 they disposed of this property, and followed their relative, Mr. J. 0. Round, to Hopkins, where Mr. Congdon secured from government one hundred and sixty acres on section 26. To the business of farming he then devoted his attention, with occasional speculations in land. Mrs. Congdon died in July, 1863, and her husband survived until May 3, 1S71, when his death occurred. After this event the homestead was purchased by their son Albert, who was the fourth in a family of ten children. Mr. Congdon was the earliest postmaster in Hopkins, and held many positions of responsibility in the township.

His son Albert married, in 1861, Miss Mary A. Ingerson, whose parents were among the pioneers of the township. Their hearth was enlivened by the presence of three children, - Lavinia, born Jan. 13, 1863; Frank, whose birth occurred Oct. 13, 1865; and Addie,.born March 18, 1869, who died Dec. 30, 1869.

The family of Congdons have occupied since their advent in Hopkins the distinguished position their ability and integrity justly entitle them to enjoy, the sons being in all that is excellent worthy successors of the father.

George W. Corbett

Nelson, and his wife, Sabrina, Corbett, the parents of the subject of this sketch, were natives of Vermont, where George W. Corbett was born, Feb. 25, 1831. Seeking a home in the West, they removed to Cleveland, Ohio, where they resided for a short time. Determining to locate in Michigan, they purchased an ox-team and journeyed to Hopkins township, Allegan Co., Mich., where they arrived in the fall of 1846. They purchased forty acres of land on section 35, and proceeded to erect a log cabin, meantime making their home with Mr. J. 0. Round. Once installed in their new home, everything seemed to prosper until Mr. Nelson Corbett sickened and died, Sept. 23, 1850. The management of affairs then devolved upon George W., then nineteen years of age. He continued the improvement of the farm, purchased additional acres, erected commodious farm buildings, and, Oct. 25, 1859, married Martha A.

Baldwin, formerly of Oswego Co., N. Y., at that time visiting a brother, who resided at Allegan. Everything seemed to prosper, and he had become one of the prominent and substantial men in this portion of the county. Two children had come to gladden their hearts and enliven their' home, - Ada 0., born April 15, 1860, and Ella M., born Sept. 20, 1872. The good mother had continued with them, sharing the blessings of a good home, until Jan. 19, 1877, when she died. Not quite one short year after, Mrs. George W. was called to follow her husband to the grave, having the sympathy of all who knew him. He was buried with Masonic honors by the Bradley Lodge, of which he was a member, and to-day a fine monument marks his resting-place, erected by his devoted wife and companion, who now continues alone in the path of life, endeavoring to instruct those left in her charge to fulfill their duty to God and mankind. A sketch, accompanied with their portraits, may be seen in this work.

Town 4 north, range Ifi west, is a fractional township of eighteen full and six fractional sections. It lies upon Lake Michigan, and has upon the north the Ottawa county-line, on the south Saugatuck township, on the east Fillmore, and on the west Lake Michigan. Although settlements were made in the northeast by the Dutch as early as 1847, there were few, if any, attempts at settlement in other portions of the township until 1859, and even after that period they progressed slowly. There was considerable swamp-land in the township at an early day, but the march of civilization has brought this land to the uses of agriculture.

Laketown is just beginning to assume a place as a fruitgrowing town, and in the matter of peach-growing has set forward with a fair promise of acquiring valuable imporr tance. Carefully-compiled statistics in the spring of 1879 showed the following report touching agricultural products :

Estimating 100 peach-trees to the acre, the number of trees set out in the spring of 1879 was 10,300, and that number was likely to be doubled by the spring of 1880.

Laketown is largely peopled by Hollanders, who prevail chiefly along the line between Laketown and Fillmore, and at Graafschap village, which is the point of the first settlement, and which occupies territory in both townships. Although there is no railway, nor yet a mill, within the township limits, both market and mill conveniences are easy

Settled By The Dutch

In June, 1847, several members of the Dutch colony then gathering at the village of Holland were desirous of seeking locations elsewhere, but near at hand, and were advised by Dominie Van Raalte to settle in township 4, range 16, then a part of Newark, and now called Laketown, that township being then unoccupied by white settlers. The people thus advised to make their first permanent homes in the New World had come in company across the ocean from Holland to America, and naturally desired to continue their fraternity as settlers. They were Aaron J. Neerken (a bachelor), Jans Rutgers and family, Lukas Tinholt (a bachelor), Lampert Tinholt and family, Henry Brinkman and family, Geert Henevelt (a bachelor), Stephen Lucas and family, Henry Kleeman and family. As before observed, all came West together and made Holland village their destination, where they found temporary accommodations in the log cabins of those already located there. In accordance with Dominie Van Raalte's suggestion, they agreed to settle in the township now called Laketown, and so he entered lands for them according to their means and his judgment.

When the members of the colony had completed their' land-purchases and were ready to begin the work of settlement, one John Robbus, a Hollander, who professed to know all about that region of country, volunteered to pilot the pilgrims to their new possessions, but by some mischance he located some of them upon the Fillmore side of the town-line, the lands they had bought lying close to the line in Laketown. Kleeman had 40 acres in the north- eastern corner of the town ; Neerken and Rutgers were also on section 1, and the rest on section 12. The mistake in location was not discovered until Tinholt, Lucas, and Neerken had built their cabins on the Fillmore side, and then, to avoid the annoyance of moving, they made fresh purchases of the land they occupied in Fillmore. In the erection of cabins each assisted the other, and so in a brief time they were all comfortably domiciled and ready for the business of wrestling with the forest for the possession of fruitful farms and the privileges of civilization.

In the midst of a densely-timbered country this little band of hardy pioneers were shut in by themselves and a dreary stretch of wilderness, but they were, after all, within easy reach of neighboring settlements. There were people east of them, in Fillmore, north, in Holland, and south at Saugatuck, where the advanced stage of the settlements gave many advantages to those of the surrounding country. The pioneers named in the foregoing as members of the Dutch colony were, therefore, the advance-guard of Laketown's settlers. Of their number those living in February, 1880, were A. J. Neerken, Lukas Tinholt, Henry Kleeman, and Geert Henevelt, all of whom reside in Laketown, near Graafschap.

Soon there came to that locality other Hollanders, who effected locations near the eastern town-line southward. Among the earliest were Berend J. Brinkman, J. H. Hatger, G. B. Speet, B. H. Scholte, H. J. Brinkman, J. H. Slenk, and J. H. Lemmen. Among those who settled early near the north town-line were the brothers Hopkins, - Henry, Elizur, William L., and James, - who located on section 2, where James and William L. are now living. The latter was among the early government contractors in the building of the piers at Holland, and has for years been interested in the improvements made at that point.

The Southeen Portion Op The Town

This did not begin to receive settlers until 1859, and the same statement may also be made as to the lake-shore region. In the year named Nathan Kendall, Eli Knowlton, and John Hogeboom made settlements upon section 22, and to the close of that year- were the only residents in the southwestern portion of Laketown, although east of them, on the town-line, there were a few Hollanders. In 1859, Laketown contained 69 resident tax-payers, and had an assessed valuation of $31,123. In 1879 the assessed valuation was $114,780. In 1861 the tax-payers in the south included also W. H. Rose, James Delvin, and George Amesbury, and, in 1862, J. H. Tidd and Nathaniel Stratton. The first saw-mill Laketown boasted was built on section 35 by John and Nicholas Sutton. The town has never had a grist-mill, and has now no. mills of any kind. The first death in the Dutch settlement was that of Garrit Salmink, in 1847, and the first birth that of a daughter of H. Schroetenboer, now the wife of Henry Lubbers, of Fillmore. The first couple married were Geert Henevelt and Gracia Kropscott, who were united in 1847 by Elder Dunnewind.

Fillmore. In 1859 district No. 1, in Laketown, was organized, and from the first annual report it is learned that out of an enrollment of 67 school children in the district but 36 attended the school. From the school records it is further learned that the first school-teacher employed was Harriet H. Hudson, and the second Ann E. Leonard. District No. 2 was organized November, 1860, district No. 3 in 1870, and district No. 4 in 1873. From the annual school report for 1879 have been obtained the subjoined statistics :

As to churches, Laketown is singularly destitute. There is at present no church edi^e in the town, and but one church organization. That is a Wesleyan Methodist Church Society, worshiping in a school-house on section 27. They erected near there, in 1873, a church frame, but before it could be inclosed a wind-storm leveled it to the ground, and no attempt at its restoration was made. Two churches in Graafschap, on the Fillmore side, provide ample conveniences in the way of religious worship to the Hollanders of that neighborhood, in both Fillmore and Laketown.

When the first settlements were made, there were no roads save such as each incoming settler made in reaching the place of his location. Presently, however, there was a road between Holland and Graafschap, for between those points there was considerable communication. There was a much-used Indian trail between Holland and Saugatuck, and upon that trail was shortly laid- what was from the first known as the Colony road, and which is now a much-used thoroughfare.

Early interments were made near the Dutch Reformed church, but in 1861 Laketown and Fillmore purchased and laid out in common a cemetery just north of the line between the two towns, and since then it has been used by both towns.

Geaafschap Village

Graafschap lies upon both sides of the line between Fillmore and Laketown, and belongs equally to both, but, in view of its having been founded by the early settlers of Laketown, that township has a special claim on it.

These early settlers came from the region lying between the kingdoms of Hanover and the Netherlands, and in recollection of the system prevalent in that country of giving small principalities to the rulership of graafs (or counts), whose districts were known as graafschaps, they gave that familiar appellation to their new home in the Western world.

Geert Henevelt owned 81 acres just over the line in Fillmore, and in 1848 he sold the property to the Dutch Reformed Church Society. The latter erected a log church upon the tract, which was laid out as Graafschap village. Trade was inaugurated in 1849 by Mathias Naaye, who opened a store, which was, however, a trivial affair, and endured but a year or so. After that there was no pro- nounced effort towards a revival of the enterprise until 1857, vfhen a Mr. Boer undertook to prosecute it, and after a year's trial abandoned it. In 1860, A. H. Brink took hold, and made it a success ; continuing it for some years, much to his own profit and the convenience of the village. A post-office was established at Graafschap in 1867, when A. H. Brink was appointed postmaster. Brink disposed of his store to G. W. Mokma in 1874, when the latter received also the appointment as postmaster, and still retains the office.

The first physician to locate in the village was Dr. William Reus, who came in 1869 and remained until 1872. The present village doctor is Dr. Mantingh. Graafschaap is now a small but active village, containing three general stores, a furniture- and hardware-store, and two churches, and gives promise of steaay growth, now that the neighboring country is developing its resources as a " fruit-belt."

The Forest Fiees Of 1871

THE FOREST FIEES OF 1871. The wide-spread forest fires which raged through Western Allegan in the autumn of 1871 were especially disastrous in Laketown, and consumed vast quantities of standing timber. Remembrancers of that fiery epoch are still to be seen upon every hand in charred trees and blackened stumps, which blur the face of nature and inflict upon the prospect a dreary and desolate presence.

TOWNSHIP ORGANIZATION. Laketown was a portion of Newark township until 1859, when it was set off with a jurisdiction of its own. At the first town meeting, held April 4, 1859, A. J. Neerken and Gerrit Rutgers were inspectors of election, John Lucas was the moderator, and Gerrit Rutgers and John Rouse clerks. The poll-list on that occasion included the following persons: Harmon Bouws, Gabriel Rosbach, Hendrik Brinkman, J. H. Arens, M. Van Bie, Harm Klomparens, B. J. Brinkman, William Schelling, Hendrik Tuurlink, Jan Wolbert, G. H. Lubbers, R. Voorenkamp, John ITogeboom, Jan Knol, Lukas Tinholt, H. J. Brinkman, Arend Arens, Jan Klomparens, Berend Steginck, J. D. S. Heeringa, Geert Meyer, J. H. Lampers, John Lucas, Albert Klomparens, John Rutgers, Geert Henevelt,

The officers elected at that meeting were : Supervisor, John Rouse ; Clerk, Gerrit Rutgers ; Treasurer, A. J. Neerken ; School Inspectors, A. J. Neerken, John Rouse, Harm Rouse, Albert Klomparens ; Commissioners of Highways, Reinderd Voorenkamp, Gerrit Rutgers, John Lucas ; Justices of the Peace, A. J. Neerken, H. J. Brinkman, John Rutgers, and Harm Klomparens ; Constable, Geert Heneveld, B. J. Brinkman, Derk Ten Cate, Hendrik Bakker ; Overseers of Highways, G. H. Lubbers in District No. 1, Gabriel Rosbach in District No. 2, Harm Bouws in District No. 3. At the same meeting J75 were appropriated for the incidental expenses of the township, and 175 for roads.

Herewith is presented a list of the persons chosen annually from 1860 to 1880 to serve as supervisors, clerks, treasurers, and justices of the peace :

Clerk

It is interesting to observe that since its organization in 1859 the township has had but four different supervisors (A. J. Neerken serving in that office thirteen consecutive years) ; but one clerk (Gerrit Rutgers) ; and but three different treasurers, - John Rutgers filling the place 18 years in succession and being yet in the office (February, 1880).

Lee, one of the newest townships in Allegan in respect to settlement, lies upon the southern border of the county, having Clyde upon the north, the Van Buren county-line upon the south, Cheshire on the east, and Casco on the west. It was surveyed as township 1 north, range 15 west, but by reason of its lack of desirable farming-land was far behind its sister-townships in point of settlement, being indeed unpeopled until invaded by lumbermen, which was not until 1858. Measures have recently been set on foot looking to the eventual reclamation of great tracts of swamp land now covering a large portion of the town's area, and towards this much-desired consummation the eye of expectation gladly turns, since the valuable farming region will by such means be materially enlarged, and the best interests of Lee will accordingly be more conspicuously advanced than by any method now within contemplation.

In the southeast and northwest, however, may now be found tracts of excellent farming country, and, while the west promises to develop into an important fruit-producing region, the east is already rich in the production of wheat. Saw-mills are now quite active, for there is yet considerable valuable timber uncut ; but this branch of industry must be abandoned in a brief space, and leave the town's prosperity to rest upon its agricultural resources alone.

Lee has no church within its limits, but is provided with five schools, - one of them created only in January, 1880. The other four have an average attendance of 110 . out of an enrollment of 144 school children in the four districts.

The Chicago and West Michigan Railroad passes from north to south on an air-line, while numerous water-courses, furnishing in some instances good mill-power, divide the face of the country in the south.

The forest fires which raged through Western Allegan in the autumn of 1871 played sad havoc with the timber lands of Lee, and laid waste many homes. The track of the flames seemed most sharply defined along the route of the railway, where for miles one may now observe acres of evidence showing the resistless march of the fire-king and his victory over the mon|rchs of the forest, whose stately forms are now replaced by charred and blackened trunks.

Lee'S Eaely Settleks

The nature of the country in the township of Lee was not such as to attract settlers at a very early day. There were great tracts of pine-lands and swampy regions whose only virtue was the stock of timber they contained, so that, while the tillers of the soil sought more favorable localities, Lee was left to court the attention of lumbermen. Even these did not penetrate the swampy recesses of the township until about 1858, and up to that time the six miles square of solitude remained unbroken, save by the appearance of a single settler, Thomas Scott by name. Scott located a tract of land between the two lakes, now bearing his name, and, although aiming to do something in the way of farming, devoted his energies chiefly to hunting, in which business he was an expert, and, as there was ample material upon which to exercise his skill, he made this sport quite profitable.

Scott was known as " the man with the wolfskin cap," and was famous for his success in the capture of wolves, upon whose scalps the county ofiered a handsome premium. He settled in Lee about 1844, and between farming and wolfcatching passed his time until 1849, when he determined to move in the gold-seeking throng to California, his wife returning East to her friends. Scott was reported to have made a fortune on the Pacific Slope, where in the course of time he died.

As before remarked, from the time of Scott's advent in 1844 until 1858 nothing was done towards populating Lee. In the year last named, however, the South Haven Lumber Company, having become possessed of considerable quantities of land in the township, sent out a company of lumbermen in charge of J. H. Thistle, and then came too Thomas Raplee, Harmon B. Rice, Michael Hoy, David W. Matthews, Henry Davidson, Winchester d^enkins, and others, who in 1859 organized the township.