Linn County, Missouri - Chapter 26: Parsons Creek Township, 1882 (part 1 of 2)

Chapter 26: Parsons Creek Township

Metes and Bounds - Topography - Its Sandstone Roch - Streams and Timber - When and hi) Whom Settled - Game - What They Sold and Where They Sold It - Progress, Accidents and Crimes - Township Organization and Its Officers - West Baltimore - Bottsville, and Meadville - When and by Whom Settled - Melange - Incorporation of Meadville - Its First Officers - Schools and Churches - The Meadville Newspaper - Business Houses - Lodges and Societies - Biographies.

Metes And Bounds

Parsons Creek was one of the three original townships which formed the municipal division of Linn county. Its territory comprises all that portion of the county lying west of Locust Creek and extending to the Iowa line. The richest agricultural section of Linn county was this township, and settled more rapidly for farming purposes than an}' other portion of the county. Originally the south line of Parsons Creek township was the channel of Grand River from the mouth of Locust Creek to where the west boundary line of the county crosses that stream, but by an act of the legislature the township line between townships fifty-six and fifty-seven became the south line of Parsons Creek and Linn county as well. The above metes and bounds continued until the year 1845, when Highland county, changed to Sullivan, was organized into a separate county. That year a commission was appointed to divide Linn county into municipal townships, and the result was that Parsons Creek was cut into two townships, the north half being called Jackson and the south half retaining the original name. This continued for several years, in fact until after the late civil war, when Clay township was made by taking off four miles from the north part of Parsons Creek and three miles off of the south part of Jackson. This leaves the present territory of Parsons Creek seven miles east and west on an average, and eight miles north and south; its eastern border following the meanderings of the channel of Locust Creek. This gives it, without counting fractions, fifty-five sections of land or 35,200 acres, and in an agricultural point of view it is the richest township in the county. It ranks the third in wealth, only exceeded by Brookfield and Locust Creek townships, its assessed valuation for 1881 being $415,993. Parsons Creek lies principally in township fifty-seven of ranges twenty-two and twenty-one, but two miles of its nortiiern border is in township fifty-eight, same ranges. It has really but one town within its border, Meadville, peopled by a progressive community who believe in their town to an unlimited extent. Fountain Grove, formerly " Wolf Grove," is a station on the St. Louis & Omaha Railroad, nearly in the southwest corner of the township and county. The west line of Parsons Creek is Livingston county, with Clay township on the north.

Topography

The township is composed of both timber and prairie land, the former lying along the border of Locust Creek and on both sides of Parsons Creek, and Hickory Branch, which empties into Locust Creek on section thirtythree, township fifty-seven, of range twenty-one. There is no more beautiful body of prairie land in the State of Missouri than that which lies bebetween Locust and Parsons creeks. Of a deep rich soil whose fertility is unsurpassed, gently sloping so as to give it a perfect drainage, it is in all respects a fanner's paradise. In some respect the central and southern portions of the township are considered a trifle better than the northern portion, but it would bother the uninitiated to tell where the superiority exists. Neither Clay nor Jackson townships on its northern border will admit this statement, and the writer is fain to believe that the superiority of soil or climate lies only with those who have made their home on those sections. There is no question but what Parsons Creek township comprises a very rich body of land, and that it has less broken or bad portions than most any other township in the county, only excepting the two above mentioned lying to the north. Its timber is of excellent quality of oak, hickory, elm, etc., comnion to the latitude. Its coal area is large, being found under nearly the whole surface of the township. One shaft has been sunk novae three miles northeast from Meadv^lie on section thirty-three, township Hftyeight of range twenty-one, which opened on an eighteen-inch vein. A six inch vein was found at the depth of forty-tlve feet in the southwest part of Meadville, but of course would not pay to work; but that by going deep enough good paying veins can be found has been demonstrated, and is, therefore, not a statement of a speculative character. Coal crops out all along the banks of Locust Creek, and the veins have been traced to a considerable distance. In addition to the coal which underlies its surface, it has magnificent quarries of sandstone. The following account is taken from the Meadville Messenger, of one of the finest quarries of stone found in north Missouri. It says:

"A most curious formation is what is commonly called the " Rock Quarry," situated on the land of George W. Stephens, some five miles southeast of Meadville. This is a mound of solid sandstone, of fine quality, which rises abruptly some two hundred feet above the surrounding surface. For miles on all sides stretches out Locust Creek bottoms, as level as a floor, and in many places are lakes and marshes. Isolated and alone has this Sphinx of the prairies stood for centuries, a sentinel on the march of time, in whose frozen embrace are locked forever the record of some stupendous war of the elements."

Such a quarry or mountain of rock is valuable, for there is enough to furnish building stone for the entire township. When you take the waters of Parsons Creek, of Hickory Branch, and Locust Creek combined, with the luxuriant crops of grapes which are indigenous to its soil, you have found one of the best stock-raising townships in the county. The largest sheep ranch is in this township. A few springs are found in the township; one at or near Fountain Grove runs a pure crystal stream, but pure water can be found at the depth of from twenty to thirty feet. The cereals and vegetables are on their native heath, while it is a garden spot for fruits of all kinds, and berries. This fruitfulness of soil has made Parsons Creek a wealthy and prosperous township, and her future is even more bright and promising.

The Old Settlers

It is nearly for,ty years ago since tiie first white man built his cabin within the limits of Parsons Creek township. There is nothing romantic in this early history. If a prehistoric race trod its fertile soil they left no memento of their being. Indians have traveled her flowery and grass -covered prairies and roamed its wooded hills and bottom-lands in search of game, but we find no burning of cabins, nor is there any record of the victims of the tomahawk and scalping-knife. When the white hunter trod these wilds on the track of his game, the Indians were friendly, and they often hnnted in - company, but way back of that period when our grand old State arose from its waste of waters, who first traversed its broad expanse or when it became habitable to man has not come down to man's knowledge, of the present day. So it is only of a hundred years or so ago that memory clings and history shows an intelligible record.

John Botts was the first settler of Parsons Creek township within its present domain. He first came in 1833, and his brother, Joshua, came with him, and they put u]» a cabin of poles. He settled on section one, township fifty-seven, range twenty-two, but it was nearly three years before he brought his family. He was a Kentuckian born and raised, but came to Linn from Howard countj'. Meridith Brown came from the same State, but from Boone county to Linn, and settled on section four, township fifty-seven, t)f range twenty-one, the same year, that is in 1836, at the time or nearly sa that Mr. Botts brought his family. He also became one of the most prominent citizens of the county. Daniel Grant dropped in soon after, and staked his claim on section nine, township fifty-seven, range twenty-one. David, Joseph, and James Littrell all came together in 1837. David settled on section ten, township fifty seven, rano:e twenty-two; Joseph, section thirty-five, township fifty-eight, range twenty-two; and James drove his stakes on section three, township fifty-seven, range twenty-two. They all came from Kentucky, and were true types of the " Hunters of Kentucky," and there you found John Botts a close relation. L. T. Foreman settled on section thirty-one, township fifty-seven, range twenty-one. Then followed William Beish, who started a clearing on section twelve, township fifty-seven, range twenty-two; Widow Norwood, near Wolf Grove, on section thirty-six, township fifty-seven, range twenty-two; Elizabeth Monroe, on section thirty-four, township fifty-eight, range twenty-one; and Seth Botts, on section twenty-seven, township fifty-eight, range twentj'-two. A few years later, perhaps up to 184:5, other settlers began to come in until Parsons Creek became a sort of a land of promise. Preston Mullin settled on section thirtyfour, township fifty-eight, range twenty-two; Thomas Botts, on section twenty-seven, township fifty-eight, range twenty-two; Widow Fisher secured a home on section twenty -four, township fifty-seven, range twenty-two; Alexander Ogan, on section twenty-five, township fifty-eight, range twenty-two; James Bolye and many others. These were the real pioneers of Parsons. Creek, and they have left their imprint so plainly marked upon the pages, of time that eternity alone can ett'ace it.

Game

These early settlers were many of them great hunters. Botts, Littrells, Foreman and others played havoc among the wolves and deer of the period.

Wolf Grove took its name from there being a wolf pen near the grove. Deer were plentiful and tlie hunters could count their slain by tlie hundreds. The wolves conld be caught in traps, but the quick aim of the hunter and his true rifle are what bi-ought the deer to bite the dust. Wolf Grove afterward took a more poetical name and was and is now known as "Fountain Grove," and this name was given it because of a large spring whose fountain-head was there, and whose refreshing waters was the resort for man and beast. Not only was game of all kinds plenty, but the wild bee made it his home, and honey was not only an article daily upon the table of the settler, but it was an article that gave many other articles of necessity to the cabins of the pioneer. Venison hams, bear steaks, honey, deer, bear and wolf skins, and here and there a wild turkey, gave the old pioneer his winter supply of groceries. <> jjrincipally at Brunswick, and with the load of honey and wild game, flour, cofi'ee, tea, a few yards of calico, an iron wedge, etc., was brought back from the town on the river bank. Keytesville had a mill, and secured a portion of the trade, but as a general rule, Brunswick secured most of what it called the "up-country trade." Glasgow was a larger town than Brunswick, and was for many years the leading trading point, but Brunswick grew and finally, being much nearer and keeping large stocks, succeeded in stopping the trade to the north and west of them. It is very much to be doubted whether at this time Brunswick or Glasgow do a much larger business than they did thirty or forty years ago.

There were, of course, no bridges in those days, and going to mill or to the "River," as it was called, was no light job, especially if a heavy rain came and the streams rose too high for fording. It would sometimes be days in tailing, and men would be camped waiting to cross. If alone it was a tedious time. Still hand-mills were used, and a burned hole in a log and a pestle did duty for many years, because they could not always go to mill just at the right time. When Bowyer's horse-mill started up it was looked upon as a God-send by those who had to go twenty to thirty miles to mill or pound their "grub" out in a mortar.

The pioneers had little trouble with the Indians. The lieatherly War, so-called, created some alarm for a short time, but there was nothing se- I'ious excepting the prairie fires, which the early settlers much dreaded. Hunters would be sometimes a little too careless building their fires near the dry grass, and if a strong wind blew it was likely to take tire and spread. Fighting tire was sometimes terrible work, and then the settlers sometimes failed to save cabins or crops.

Such were some of the trials of those who started out to la}' the foundation of their future homes. They were never idle. The men cleared the fields and planted the crops, while the women spun and wove, and not only made the linsey and flannel for their own wear, but also made the jeans which became the wearing a])j)arel of their husband, father, and brothers. And thus passed nearly a score of years, the wild-wood and the open prairies trivin<; way to the woodman's ax and the plow, and where once roamed the deer and the wolves, and where perched the wild turkey in security, now blossoms with green fields and waving grain. Civilization held sway and the car of progress moved forward guided by the hands and energy of an energetic people. There were many incidents transpiring from day to day which are familiar to all who have read, or liave been personal actors of the times, and of too common occurrence for repetition here. Now and then a fight with a bear, the tracking of wolves to their lair, or the shrill cry of the panther, all called forth the skill and the nerve of the hunter, and many were the narrow escapes, which, while of but little interest in print, were told with graphic fervor and force by the actors of the scene who would relate them at the evening fireside.

Items Of Progress

Parsons Creek in all these years not only progressed in the cultivation of the soil, of making fruitful farms and pleasant homes, where once the red man held undisputed sway, but the car of progress was freighted with a strong desire for self-culture. Schools were easily started wherever a neigh- ])orhood had a dozen or so children who needed or felt the growing need of scholastic attainments. The first school was of course the familiar log school-house and the subscription school, with the teacher to receive his one dollar and fifty cents to two dollars and fifty cents per scholar per term, and to " board round." Just what time the first school was taught was hard to say. It was not long after the Mormon War. The Mormons, raided this section, stealing fodder by cutting the corn and packing it on their horses, and digging potatoes and carrying them away. Sometimes they traded some trinkets for it, but more generally took what they could lay their hands on and left. Among the volunteers to the Mormon War were John and Joshua Botts.

Very little wheat was raised at first, corn being the chief product, with potatoes and garden vegetables. Hogs ran wild in the woods and grew fat on mast. Cattle ran the range over for miles, and the bell they wore, and the different sound of each, told each settler on the hunt for his stock whose cattle were in the sound of his ears. They not only knew their own bell but that of every neighbor for miles around.

The traveling preacher would sometimes come as often as once a month, and then again it would be two or three months between preaching time. A full turn out would always be had when it was known. When no preach- -ing was had the men often went hunting and the women w^ould find recre- atioii in fishing in the streams, or in the cat-holes on the prairies. There was little to break the monotony in the existence of a pioneer's life.

The first death was believed to be that of a child of Mrs. Parks, a little girl, and the mother dying soon after both were buried in one grave, in the graveyard near John Botts's on Parsons Creek.

The first preacher was William C. Benson, of the Baptist denomination. He held service at Seth Botts's and the first communion was at the cabin of James Littrell. Mr. Benson removed to Trenton, Grundy county, preaching, and kept hotel. He died a few years since, and his widow still keeps the hotel in Trenton. Jesse Goins and others also held service in the township.

Dr. Dry den was thought to have been the first physician. Dr. Keith^ from Chillicothe, came next, and then Drs. Long and Wilcox had some practice in the township.

The first school-house built was in the year 1846 or 1847. There was a school taught near John Botts's in 1847, commencing in June, and was a short term of three months. It was built of logs, and quite a large number of pupils attended, Thomas Ryan being the teacher, and one dollar and fifty cents per scholar the price for the term. E. D. Harvey, the present representative for Linn county to the General Assembl}', came that year. The Botts' families, Littrells, Grants, Belshe, Hollard, Miller, etc., all sent their children to this school, some twenty-five in all attending.

In other settlements schools were started, and when the school-houses were put up, although of log, they also became houses of worship on Sunday, and it was not long ere the work of the circuit rider became more frequent, and arrangements made for regular preaching at stated times. The township increased in population, and at the time of the civil war was one of the foremost townships in the county. Daring the struggle little progress was made, and it escaped many incidents, trials, and sufferings. by being a purely agricultural community. There were troubles among neighbors of opposite belief, but with the exception of the killing of Frank Hart by L. T. Foreman, there is no record of any serious facts transpiring in the township.

At the time of Poindexter's defeat it is said he passed through Meadville and took some five hundred dollars from the citizens, but at that time Meadville was composed of a few straggling houses, and there was little to excite the cupidity of the raiders. The war ceased, and with peace came a hope of prosperity. Parsons Creek was made a separate voting precinct June 5, 1866, and quite a number of her citizens have been prominent in thepolitical aflfairs of the country ever since its organization. W^ith increase of population came more churches and schools; lands were taken up by ac- tual settlers and fine farms and well cultivated fields took the ]>lace of the open ])rairies and the timbered bottoms. At this time sheej) raising is one of the leading industries of the township, and it is well adapted for the purpose. Schools are all in a fiourishing condition, and there are no less than twelve within the township. The school-houses are paid for, principally frame buildings, with all the a]>piiances necessary for a thorough common school education. In 1849 E. D. Harvey taught a school on section one, township fift^'-seven, range twenty-two.. This was the first school-house built in that section, and was about sixteen by sixteen feet, composed entirely of logf. There were not over three schools at that time in the whole township.

In 1880-81, at the winter session of the General Assembly, the township organization law was passed and the township organized under its provision. Mr. Abram Marks was elected clerk and assessor; other officers are L. N. Goodale, A. D. Black, G. T. Williams and H. C. Barger; and the representative of the county is E. D. Harvey. The future of Parsons Creek township, with its rich soil and fine stock ranges, is destined to be one of the leading townships of the county in the future, as it has been in the past, and the immigrant will find no better bargains for a home than here. It is in reality a poor man's paradise.

It is not always best for two families to live in the same house, unless that house is very large. Two families by the name of Sibert and Phillips occupied one house some four miles west of Laclede, and it proved that they could not agree. Phillips got angry, January 24, 1868, and shot Sibert's dog. Mrs. S. went to the field and told her husband, who at once started for the house to settle the matter with Phillips, Mrs. Sibert following closely. Phillips knowing there would be a row, loaded his shot-gun and waited Sibert's coming. When Sibert got near enough Phillips fired, killing Sibert, and two stray shot struck the child, one in the head, in its mother's arms, killing it also, without injuring Mrs. S. ; and not only that but a cow just on a line a few feet from Mr. Sibert was also struck and died of her wound. It proved a terribly fatal shot. Phillips jumped upon a mule and left at once for parts unknown, although Montana was supposed to have been the place of his refuge. He was tracked to the north part of the county, where he had traded his mule for a horse and then continued his flight. A few months afterwards his wife and family departed, presumably to join the erring husband and father, but nothing further has been heard of him.

organized at Meadville. A. Lipp&j't was made president and G. W. Matthews, secretary. A lar^^e number of farmers were in attendance and no less than fittj joined tlie club. It flourislied for a year when many ^f its members joined the new order of the, Patrons of Husbandry, that grew so prosperousl}^ for a few years.

In July, 1872, Hansom Collumwood got on a drunken spree, and it ended in his being run over by a passing train. It was near the town of Meadville.

While digging a well, August 1, 1874, on a farm about two miles east of Meadville, two men, Mike Crantz and William Home, were walling it up. Home was in the well and Crantz bringing the rock. On bringing one large rock to the well, he slipped at the edge of the opening and the stone fell out of his arms and struck Home on the head, killing him instantly. It was purely an accident as the men were like brothers, and Crantz did not get over it for months.

August 20, 1875, the little three-year old daughter of Isaac Warner, a bright active child, fell into the well and before she could be reached, drowned. It was a terrible blow to its parents.

The fast mail train going west from Meadville May 11, 1875, ran over and killed the son of J. A. Bell. The boy was deaf but otherwise a bright and active lad. His father sued the railroad company and got judgment in the sum of $5,000. The company appealed the case, and it is still unsettled, showing a good example of law's delay, which is generally the refuge of rich corporations when the poor demand justice of them.

The centenmal year, 1876, was pretty generally celebrated all over the country, and Meadville made history by inaugurating a centennial party. The men and women dressed themselves in colonial style, and Gen. I. V. Pratt made a speech. This was early in Februarj', and was the opening ceremony of the centennial year by the Meadvillians.

One of the strange freaks in human nature, which always has and always will astonish the world when they happen, took place at Fountain Grove, in the south part of the township in the fall of 1877. It was no less than a married woman, the mother of five children, with no known reason for her action, suddenly deserting husband and children and leaving with another man for parts unknown. The husband followed as far as Chillicothe to reclaim the erring woman, but failed to overtake the truant couple. She has never been heard from to date.

It is believed that the best wheat crop ever raised in Linn county was on the farm of Joshua Botts in Parsons Creek township, one of the old pioneer stock. If not the best, it will do to tell. On thirtj'-nine acres of ground Mr. Botts threshed and cleaned 982 bushels of wheat. Mr. Botts died at an advanced age, December 16, 1878, and was sincerel}^ mourned by a large circle of friends, having lived over forty years in the county.

A Suicide

"DanielGooch, a highly respected citrizen living on Parsons Creek, in Pareons Creek township, Linn county, committed suicide by shooting himself. The circumstances show that the awful act was a cool and deliberate case of self-desti-uction, tiie result, it is believed, of mental despondency in long brooding over financial misfortunes. On Saturday' morning he went to a neighbor. Air. Kennedy, and borrowed a shot-gun, saying he wanted it to kill an owl that was troubling his poultry. On his way home, when near Mr. Jonathan Pearman's lield he was seen by that gentleman, but did not particularly attract his attention at the time. Within a few minutes afterwards, Mr. Pearman heard the report of a gun, and looking in the direction of the sound he saw a horse standing tied to his field fence, near where he had last seen Mr. Gooch, but he could not see any person in sight, though the view was clear. lie thought it best to investigate the matter, and see if any evil had befallen his neighbor, and on reaching the vicinity was horrified to find Mr. Gooch lying stone dead in his (Pearman's) field, with the upper rear portion of his head blown away! Mr. Pearman immediately notified the relatives and neighbors of the deceased, and after an examination of the surroundings and being perfectly satisfied as to the manner of his death, his relatives removed his bodj^ to his late home. An investigation showed' that he had placed the muzzle of the gun in his mouth and had with the ramrod sprung the triirger. On the outside of his mouth there was not the slightest wound nor even indication of powder, so that he certainly must have put the muzzle of the gun as far in his mouth as he could with convenience. The deceased was about thirty-five years of age, and was born and raised in the neighborhood where he died. A few years ago he became financially involved and lost his farm, and has since lived on rented land. A short time since, after trying to rent a farm, and failing to find one having better accommodations tJum a log house, he was greatly dissatisfied, and remarked that he " would soon find abetter place." Mr. Gooch leaves a wife and three little sons, and a large circle of relatives and friends to mourn his death.

Death By Ligutning

April 13,1880, aheart-rendingaccident took place at Meadville which called forth deep expressions of sorrow for the afflicted parents. Two children of George Gibson, aged six and eight years, on returning home from school during a storm, were both struck by lightning and' the oldest instantly killed and the younger one badly injured. When the lightning left the boy and passed into the ground it made a hole ten inches deep.

came with lier husband to Linn county in the year 1836, and was one of the pioneer women of that day, of strong mind and energetic action. She had the heart to feel, a judgment to guide, and belonged to that class who stamp the impress of their greatness upon all surrounding them.

In 1881 a fire at Meadville destroyed the house of Enoch Shore. This is not remarkable in itself, but Mr. Shore was a poor man; lost his all, and was generally respected. The result of this good character was a sympathy of the people of his town that showed itself in deeds as well as words, and Mr. Shore, in one month and a day after his loss, was again enabled to move into his own house, work and money being donated to a deserving man. The citizens did their duty, for the exhibition of charity is a Godlike act.

Tornado

Not many wind storms have swept the prairies of Linn county, and those have come and gone, and did but little damage until the year 1876. On. the fifth day of September of the centennial year a tornado swept through, the southern part of the county, and Parsons Creek township lay directly in its course. It had passed through Livingston county, where it did considerable damage. It passed over the farm of William Harvey, who was killed, and a hired man, also killed by being struck by lightning. The house and barn of Elijah Harvey were nearly destroyed, and his daughter .quite seriously hurt. His fences were badly scattered. E. D. Harvey had the roof blown off his barn; Milton Jones's house was blown all to pieces,, but strange to say, the family escaped with some severe bruises. His barn and orchard were also destroyed. William Hopper's house and barn shared the same fate as his neighbors, while William Lisenby lost the roof off his barn, and his orchard was a wreck. The cornfields suffered, but as the corn was about matured there was little loss.

Another storm not quite so extensive in its destructive force, passed over Parsons Creek township June 5, 1880. This storm seems to have spent most of its force on the town of Bedford, over in Livingston county, the damage being estimated at fully $15,000. The house and barns of Mr. Edward Patterson were totally demolished, but the family, luckily, was absent. A few other houses in the track of the storm suffered some damage, as did also fences, grain, and fruit, but the loss was small in the aggregate, though severely felt by the immediate victims.

June 7, 1880, Mrs. C. L. Wilder, wife of Jefferson Wilder, of Meadville, dropped dead in the street on her way home from the store, where she had been making purchases - apoplexy.

Meadville, like most other towns on the line of the Hannibal & St. Joseph- Railroad, dates its real existence on the completion of that road through

Linn county. To be sure the site of Meadville was a year or two older. The following description taken from the Meadville Messenger is a pretty -correct outline of its birth and growth as far as given. " It was," it says, 1858, that John Botts ventured to build a little store on the present of Meadville, then a vast expanse of wild prairie where deer and antelope were wont to roam at will and without molestation. A short time thereafter David Lancaster built a little blacksmith shop. These two buildings comprised the settlement which was named

"The first stock of goods that was ever brought to this place was hauled "with an ox-team from Brunswick by William M. Botts, who still lives near this place, and is a son of John Botts. The stock consisted of dry goods, groceries, queensware, tinware, hardware, crockery ware, and last, but not least, whisky, which was sold by the drink. Time rolled on; and sometime during the years of 1858-59 the Hannibal <k St. Joseph Railroad was completed through this place. Mr. Botts had quite a time to get them to build a depot here. The}' were talking of building it two miles west of New Baltimore; but by some trade that was made by Mr. Botts with them, they linally built a depot, and we are sorry to say it still stands, - a disgraceful landmark. This is the only disgrace we have to our town. While ^11 this was being done the town had not yet been laid out. On the twentyfirst day of February, 1860, John Duflf, John M. Forbes, John Brooks, and John Botts, by their attorneys in fact, Josiah Hunt and John L. Lathrop, appeared before Peter B. Groat, notary public in Hannibal, Marion county, with acknowledgments that they had laid out the town of Bottsvillo on section six, township fifty-seven, range twenty-one west of the fifth principal meridian, in the county of Linn and State of Missouri, and a correct plan was also attached. This proceeding was duly signed and sealed according to law; and on the twenty-seventh day of February, of the same year, John Botts appeared before W. B. Woodruff, justice of the peace in Linneus, and made the same acknowledgment, and it was then duly recorded by Jeremiah Phillips, recorder, per J. C. Phillips, deputy recorder. The surveyor, was F. B. Lockling. Thus the new town of New Baltimore went into oblivion and Bottsville became a reality."

Thus Bottsville started out in life duly authenticated, and like all small country towns, improved only as the country around became more thickly settled. By and by the war came on and matters came to a stand-still and remained so until about 1867, when things began to take a turn for the better. At that time Bottsville's business interests w'erc not of mammoth proportions. T. D. Evans was the postmaster, and he also carried a small stock of general merchandise; L. W. James (now deceased), ran a drug-

They were not large stocks that these merchants carried, and an incident will explain to the reader some of the quantity of some kinds of goods men kept on hand. A new-comer stepped into one of the ahove stores and called for a pound of tea. "W-h-a-t!" says the storekeeper, '' a pound of tea; why I reckon you must be crazy! That's a right smart chance of tea, and you surely do not want that much, do you?" "Well, yes!" says the stranger, rather embarrassed at the man's wonder. "I don't reckon I have got that much," says the merchant. " I never get but two pounds at a time and that is enough to last three months, and I won't sell you all I've got, for some one may want an ounce or two for sickness; but I will let you have all I can spare."

It was about this time that John Botts, the pioneer of Jefferson township, who had lived in the township over thirty-two years, sold his farm to Mr. A. Lippet and removed back to Howard county. He was the first postmaster, and when he left one of the old landmarks was indeed gone. This was the situation as above remarked in 1867. The immigration of that year was great, and not only Parsons Creek township but Bottsville itself began to feel the inspiration of renewed life and more rapid progress. It soon did away with the game of marbles, and even the Indians failed to come and shoot pennies from a crotched stick with their bows and arrows; in fact, Bottsville began to put on airs, and wanted to be called somethingbesides a hamlet on the prairies. Another thing they did not like was the name, and so a petition was taken before the County Court asking that it& name might be changed to MeadVille. This was in April, 1869. Some, however, opposed this change, and also went before the County Court at the May term, and on May third the following order is found of record; towit, "That a majority of the voters residing in the town of Meadville, in Linn county, having filed their petition in open court, asking the court to change the name of said town back to Bottsville. It is therefore ordered by the court that the name of said town be changed from Meadville to Bottsville." From May third to October sixth, 1869, the name Bottsville remained, but at the latter date it was finally changed to Meadville, and will probably remain so for all future time. It was named in honor of Charles Mead, at that time superintendent of the Hannibal & St. Joseph Railroad.

Melange

The first building was a frame, twenty by thirty-two. The first schoolhouse was built on lot seven of block one, of the original plat, in 1859. It was a frame building, eighteen by twenty-six, and cost about two hundred dollars. It is still standing. The present or new school-house is of brick^ and was erected in 1872, and an addition added in 1878. The main building is forty by twenty-two, and the addition twenty by fifty, and was pnt up at a cost of $3,B00. There are tiiree departments in this scliooh The first teacher was E, D. Harvey.

Dr. Stephen Beach was the first resident physician. He came in 1860, and purchased a farm soon after just south of town, and upon which he died March 12, 1875.

Father Hogan lield the first religious service in the year 1859. The first resident minister, however, was Rev. L. W. James of the Christian Church, who came in the spring of 18(>5.

The Christian church, now owned by the Methodists, was erected in 1869. It was intended by the Campbellites to be used for educational purposes, but was disposed of as above in 1873.

The Eureka Mills were put up in 1870 by Messrs. Lash & Hinton. They run three run of burs, and is a first-class mill in every respect. It has been lying idle the past year, but to a man with some means is a splendid business opening.

From 1875 to 1880 Meadville doubled its population. Meadville also claims to have been the first to start what is known as agricultural picnics. They are a gathering of the farrners. their wives, sons, and daughters, and they are joined by the town people en masse. It is a day looked for with interest, and when it arrives is one of unalloyed pleasure. As high as three thousand people gather at these festivals, and the scene is hard to describe, for it is an ever-changing panorama of country life.

What Sustains It

It is the richness of the country around Meadville which will yet make it one of the most important towns in Linn county. The farmers are all in good circumstances, and are growing wealthy from year to year, and the peo])le of Parsons Creek township stand by their little live and progressive city. As before remarked Meadville doubled its population in five years, from 1875 to 1880; and from the latter date for another five years her increase will undoubtedly be at a still greater ratio, for at this witing (in the spring of 1882) Meadville is growing with wonderful rapidity, and her people have determined to make her the secdnd city in the county at the next

As far back as 1876 Meadville began to give evidence of being a shipping point of no mean dimensions, and as the population, agriculturally speaking, has increased in Parsons Creek townshij), as show^n by the census figures, nearly fifty per cent, some idea of what she is doing now in the way of a market and shipping point may be gathered from what was sent out by cars in 1876, as follows: There were 1,100 head of cattle shipped; 3,300 hogs; 700 sheep, which has been so increased as to make 7,000 nearer the figures at this time; 26,000 bushels of corn; 3,000 of oats; 1,600 bales of hay; 180,000 pounds of tobacco; and not less than 150,000 shaved hoops. These were the figures when the entire population numbered less than 300 persons all told. Now with a population of at least 600, and as above remarked, increase of the farming community, Meadville at this time ships more farm produce and stock than any other town of its size on the Hannibal & St. Joseph Kailroad, and some towns with from fifty to one hundred per cent greater population cannot show such business results.

A City

At the opening of the year 1881 the people of Meadville decided upon the formation of a city government, and to this end a petition was drawn up and signed by about all the adult males of the town in favor of such action. This petition was duly presented to the County Court at its session in January, and was favorably received and acted upon. The records of the County Court on January 4th, 1881, show the following action of the Court upon the petition:

"Whereas it appears to the court here that a majority of the taxable inhabitants of the town of Meadville have filed a petition in this court asking that said town be incorported under the provisions of section 4385 of the Kevised Statutes of the State of Missouri, and it having shown to the satisfaction of the court that said town contains more than five hundred inhabitants and less than five thousand, it is therefore ordered by the court that the town of Meadville aforesaid be and it is hereby incorporated as a city of the fourth class, and shall be known hereafter by the name and style of the -' City of Meadville." The corporate limits of said town or city to extend over such territory as is laid out and described, and laid out in the plat of said town by metes and bounds as follows; to-wit,

" Beo-inning at the northeast corner of the northwest quarter of the northwest quarter of section six, township fifty-seven, of range twenty-one, and running thence west thirty-eight chains and eightj^-two links; thence south forty-five chains and forty-nine links; thence east fifty-seven chains and sixtj-six links; thence north twentv-iour chains and fifteen links* thence west eighteen chains and forty-two links; thence north twenty chains and thirty-six links, to the place of bet^innino;. And it is fnrther ordered that the followinf^ named officers be a|)]->ointed for said city as follows; to-wit: George W, Golden, mayor; A, D. Black, J. C. Waters, Johti McNicholas and D. M. Sevey, aldermen, and John Grafton, marshal. Dated Jannary 4, 1881.''

List Ok Officers

On the granting of the city charter by the County Court, it also appointed the first city officers to hold until the spring election to come off in April following, when the people could install officers of their own chosing. Those appointed by the court were as follows: Mayor, George "W. Goldman; aldermen, A. D. Black, Dr. J. C. Waters, John McNicholas, and D. W. Sevey; marshal, John Crafton; clerk and attorney, S. A. Fields, and W. W. Sturges, treasurer. This council declined to grant any saloon license, and there are no saloons in the city.

At the election in the following April, the following officers were chosen for the coming year, or until their successors were elected and qualified: Mayor, George W. Goldman; aldermen, B. L. Barbee, L. X. Goodale, J. B. Duskin, and Mathias Johnson; marshal, H. G. Lyons; clerk and attorney, S. A. -Fields; treasurer, W. W. Sturges.

The school of Meadville is in a flourishing condition. Its corps of teachers is composed as follows: Ella Howe, principal; Rose Bishop, intermediate department, and Mary Goldman, primary. The enrollment, summer term, was one hundred and fifty; winter term, one hundred and twentyseven. The total enumeration for 1881, whites, one hundred and seventyseven; colored, 5, in all one hundred and eighty-two.

One of the concomitants of a city atid generally a very necessary institution is a calaboose, and Meadville felt as if she could not assume metropolitan proportion without this important adjunct of civilization, and so one was built in the summer of 1881, at a cost of seventy-five dollars. The next thing in order will be the rock pile, and then her criminals instead of being an expense can crack rocks enough to pave her main street, if not more.

Meadville Messenger

in Meadville. It started Avith but five columns to the page, and the editor and proprietor had onlj' energy and perseverance to start with, money being a stranger. Pie is now the sole owner of Jiis office, has increased the size of his paper to seven columns, and has the good will and support of the people of his town. And in the support of such a paper the citizens show good judgment, for while there may be more .wealthy men there is no man doin^ business in that thriving town who advances its interest in a greater degree than the publisher and proprietor of the Messenger. What is known of Parsons Creek township and Meadville is not from local gossip, but through the medium of their newspaper. It is the life of a town; without it obscurity would hold a controlling hand. A town is largely rated by the ability of its press, and the support given it by its home patrons.

Business Interests

The growth of Meadville for the past two years has been quite rapid, and seems still to gain, making its future one of bright promise. Its business interests are sustained by the following list of mercantile and other houses, as reported March 1, 1882.

Methodist Episcopal Church

The Meadville Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in the year 1868. It was the first organized in the village, although for years there had been services held, not only in Meadville, but over the township, at the log school-houses or at the cabins of the settlers. The original members of this church were G. W. Meyers, J. W. Meyers, Lester Sloniker, R. E. Sidebottom, John Crafton, and William Grafton. They were unable to erect a church building of their own until the year 1873, when by perseverance and industry and by liberally subscribing they purchased a good substantial structure at a cost of $1,500, which was formerly owned by the Christian

Churcli. It was a severe struggle, but tliey accomplished it, and the church coutiuued to grow. The new church was dedicated the same year, the dedication sermon being preached by the Kev. Nathan Shumate. The church has grown and prospered until it has an enrolled membership of seventy-live. Those who have sustained the position ofpastorsofthis church since its foundation are named as follows: Rev. S. H. Enyeart, R. E. Sidebottora, John Glanville, H. B. Seeley, O. Bruner, James Allen, J. H. Scliott, H. B. Barnes, and S. Knapp, in the order of their names. The church is out of debt and owns the parsonage, a neat frame building erected in 1875, at a cost of five hundred dollars. A Sunday-school is held in connection with this church, and has some fifty pupils in attendance, under the superintendence of Robert Grafton, an earnest worker in its behalf. The Rev. R. E. Sidebottom died in 187S. A congregation of the Methodist Episcopal Church South hold service in this church building once a month, the Rev. Craig beino- the pastor.

Baptist Church

While the Baptist Church was one of the earliest organized churches in northern Missouri, and in many places led all other denominations, did not prove so at Mead vi lie. It was not until March 4, 1878, that the Baptist Church ofMeadville was organized. Service had been held long before this, but there failed to be members enough of that denomination to eft'ect a permanent organization until the above date. At that time those who belonged to that persuasion determined to organize not only a church riiembership, but also to erect a place of worship. The names of those who united together for this purpose and became the first enrolled members of the first Baptist Church of Meadville are here given. They are as follows: William M. Botts, R. P. Waters, George K. McKay, L. H. Rogers, H. Hicks, E. D. Levell, E. Williams, W. S. McGrimes, J. C. Waters, J. II. Dunn, Mary Green, Mary E. McKay, Lucy Cundiff", Luella Dunn, Anna Waters, Nancy Levell, M. B. McGrimes, Sallie Rogers, M. A. Barber, Sallie B. Botts, Dora Botts, and Delia Sturges. In the following summer the erection of the church was commenced and was completed in the fall, and was considered the finest church building in the town. It was a handsome frame structure plainly and neatly finished and furnished with a total cost of $l,7o0. October '20, 1878, the house was dedicated to the service of the Most High, the sermon being delivered by that eloquent man of God, Rev. W. Pope Yeamon, He spoke of the tenets of their faith, and of earnest work in the cause of true religion. Those who have officiated as ministers of this church were W. W. Walden and A. Phister, and the present membership is thirty-nine. One of the most pleasant features of this church is their weekly prayer-meetings which are often fully attended, many persons going who are not members. All, however, are invited, both to attend and take part in the'exercises of the meeting. Tlicy also have a Sundaj'-school connected with the church with a full attendance. Some forty names are enrolled, with every promise that the lessons here given to the rising children and youths who attend will not prove a labcr in vain, but lessons that will bring them sweet consolation and hope in their onward struggle through life. The superintendent is William M. Botts, who is sincerely devoted to liis work.

Congkegational Church

The first Congregational Church of Meadville was organized August 28, 1870. It is situated in the eastern part of the town, on section six, township fifty-seven, range tw^enty one, being in the foot of the letter L, the shape of the town. In 1874, they erected a substantial church building, and handsomely finished and furnished the same at a cost of $1,600, and when completed, which it was at the close of the year, it was dedicated. The Rev. Dr. Cochran preached a very interesting and impressive dedication sermon.

The original members of this church v/ere W. R. Spofford, Eliza A. Spofford, H. Hall, Mrs. H. Plall, John McNeil, Mary P. McE"eil,Ada A. Mc- Neil, Margaret G. Cooley, Mrs. Eliza M. Black, and Miss Harriet R. Black. The pastors have been Revs. I. Carlton, Samuel Ollerenehaw, J. J. Weage, and J. Y. Willis. The present membership numbers forty eight, and the church is in a good condition, with promises of increased usefulness.

Sunday School

They have a large and fiourishing Sunday-school in connection with the church, which is under the superintendency of L. N. Goodale, who takes great interest in the school, and has proven an earnest and successful worker in the cause. There is an enrolled list of pupils attending the school of sixty, with an average attendance of about forty. There is every reason to believe that the school will continue to grow and flourish, and that the seed planted by faithful work will bring forth rich fruit in coming years.

This lodge known as Meadville Lodge No. 33, was instituted November 13, 1877, by M. W. Newton, and started out under very favorable auspices, and is at this day in a flourishing condition.

The hall they use was erected in 1872, costing the proprietor about $2,000 It is a frame structure and very well adapted for lodge purposes. There havebeen but two members of the lodge lost by death, and the present membership is thirty. William Pengelly and W. S. McGinnis were the ones that died.

This lodge was organized August 6, 1870, under the name of Parson Creek Lodge No. 132, of I. O. G. T. The date of their charter is also August 6, 1870. The order assumed quite a prominence from the start,, being the leading social institution of Meadville. The following leading citizens, both male and female, enrolled themselves as charter members of this lodge: "W. R. Spoiford, Dr. S. Beech, W. W. Sturges, Joel Spencer, William G. Brown, E. D. Harvey, A. D. Goodale, Martin Moore, C. C. Kirbv, L. C. Green, Miss Addie McNeil, Miss Unice Spofford, Miss Sarah Cook, Miss M. L. Wilder, Miss Mary Kellogg, Miss Rose Hall, and Mrs. F. J. Brown. When it came to electing the first officers, there was some excitement, and among a few a little anxiety either on their own account or on that of their freinds, but it was all peace and harmony; nothing but friendly strife. When the contest ended the following named persons were duly announced and installed as the first officers of the association: W. C. T., E. D. Harvey; W. Y. T., M. L. Wilder; W. S., W. W. Sturges; W. C, W. G. Brown; W. A. S., Joel Spencer, and served as W. F. S., also; W. T., Addie McNeil; W. M., A. D. Goodale; W. D. M., Mary Kellogg; W. L G., Sarah Cook; W. O. G., Stephen Beach; R. H. S., Frances J. Brown; L. H. S., Unice Spofford; P. W. C. T., W. R. Spofford; L. D., W. G. Brown. With this array of officers the lodge grew and flourished until its membership at this time numbers about one hundred. Tiiey built themselves a neat frame hall in 1871, costing some $500, and neatly and substantially furnished the same. The meetings are largely attended and great j^leasure experienced as these entertainments are of a literary character, with declamations, music, etc. They have a fine organ, and the rich musical and literary treat thus given calls forth a full house at each meeting. The result

Quite a number of members of the Masonic order having settled in Meadville, and others willing to join, it was decided to organize a lodge. This was accordingly done and the name given was Dockery Lodge No. 325. The date of the dispensation was June 18, 1869. The lodge was instituted by A. M. Dockery. The date of the charter is October 12, 1869, and its charter members were H. L. Brown, James Dixon, L. 0. Geven, J. A. Howe, E. D. Harvey, James G. Lay, M. A. Minor, W. G. Maynard, J. E. Pardouner, L. W. Reynolds, J. M. Thompson, and A. Ward. At the organization of the lodge the officers were elected and duly installed as follows: J. A. Howe, M.; J. M. Thompson, S. W.; A^^illiam Tolson, J. W.; James Dixon, treasurer; J. E. Pardouner, secretary; A. Ward, S. D.; H* L. Brown, J. D.; James G. Lay, tyler. The lodge has grown steadily and now numbers thirty-two members. One member only has died since its organization, Brother W. S. McGrimes, who was also a member of the order of United Workmen. They own a neat hall, a frame building costing six hundred dollars and have neatly furnished it. The hall was built in the year 1870. There are no members of this lodge who belong to the Grand Lodge, as yet. At this time the lodge is in good condition, financially, and in good standing. Its present officers are S. A. Field, M.; E. D. Harvey, S. W.; S. Winiger, J. W.; M. D. Smith, treasurer; L. N. Goodale, secretary; J. H. Botts, S. D.; R. B. Sidebottom, J. D.; W. G. Maynard, S. S.; P. M. Thompson, J. S., and S. Gilmore, tyler. The future of the order is one of promise.

The record of this lodge closes the list of the different orders, but we will mention that another lodge is talked of, the I. O. O. F. May it be organized and flourish.

-son of Jose])li and Elizabeth (nee Kector) Barton, who were natives of Virginia, was born in Randolph county, Illinois, March 9, 1809, and lived there until he was twenty years of age, his father being one of the earliest pioneers of that section of country. In 1S29 the subject of this sketch removed to Howard county, Missouri, lived there until 1833 and then went to Johnson county. In 1834 he came to Linn county, being one of the first settlers. In fact, there were only six families living in this county at that time, and he and John Yount are the only two surviving members of that particular settlement. In those early days the people in this part of the country were accustomed to go to Howard county, fifty miles, to mill. Mr. Barton was the third sherifl' of the county, tilling that office from 1844 to 1847, wlien the county extended to the Iowa line, and when he was frequently compelled to ride forty miles for a witness, though he received as remuneration for the same only fifty cents. In 1850 Mr. Barton was elected circuit clerk of Linn county, and a year later removed to the place where he now resides. Notwithstanding he lost heavily in the late war, he now owns and manages a splendidly improved farm of 280 rich acres, and this is the result of his honesty of dealing, economy of management, energy of character, intelligence and public spirit. Mr. Barton was married in 1832 to Miss Jane Warren, daughter of Edward and Elizabeth {nee Gillespie) Warren, of Howard county, Missouri. They had by this union seven children, six of them living: William, Rector, Edward, Amanda, Elizabeth, and Huldah. He was again married in 1850, to Mrs. Elizabeth Lockridge, formerly a Miss Rooker. l^y this union there were seven children, four living: Wharton R., Jr., Alonzo P., Belle, and Elias.

The subject of this sketch was born at Rah way, New Jersey, July 20, 1810. His ancestors were English Quakers and came to this country and settled in company with what is known in history as the "Fenn Colony." From them he inherited an unblemished reputation and a vigorous constitution. At an early age he removed to Florida and went into a drug store as a clerk, serving his etnployer faithfully and learning rapidly, so that in 1842, he removed to Macon, Georgia, and opened a drug store of his own. Depending entirely upon his own resources, he commenced business under difticuUies, but with skill, energy, and agreeable manners, he soon built up an extensive trade. Mr. Brown was also lieutenant of the "Macon Volunteers," a company organized for the ]irotection of the inhabitants against a threatened in- surrection of the negroes, they at that time outnumbering the whites. Heafterwards served in the same capacitj' in the "Bibb Count}^ Cavalry." September 6, 1834, Mr. Brown was married to Frances Jennette Jones, an orphan sister of the late John L. Jones, one of the most extensive dry goods merchants in Macon. Five sons and three daughters blessed this union, seven of whom are now living, and an honor to their parents. From Macon Mr. Brown removed to New York and settled on the banks of Lake Ontario, where the town of Fair Haven now stands, and which owes much of its prosperity to the early enterprise and public spirit of Mr. Brown. In 1864: he removed to Red Cr^ek and was there commissioned revenue assessor of the District of New York, which position he filled with honor and efficiency for two years, when he decided to make Missouri' his future home. Locating at Bottsville (now Meadville) he was appointed land agent for the Hannibal & St. Joseph Railroad, where he sold many thousand acres of the then wild land. Mr. Brown was a firm believer in Christianity, and frequently, in the absence of the minister, preached from the pulpit himself. During the war three of his sons went to the field and fought gallantly for their country, and returned home in safety. Mr. Brown was a man of uncommon ability, his intellectual faculties far above the ordinary, and even to the time of his death, which occurred March 25, 1882, and when he was aged seventy years he was nearly as vigorous physically and as clear mentally as in his manhood's prime. When he died the light ot" a useful, generous, noble life went out, but the memory of it all remains.

Hikam Black

son of Harvey and Polly {nee Tracey) Black, was born in Erie county, Pennsylvania, March 20, 1832. His early life was spent on a farm, and the education he received was at a common school. At the age of fifteen years he started out in life fur himself, driving a team for several months on the Erie Canal. He then learned the harness trade and followed it in the State and city of New York until 1858, when he came west, and located at St. Catharine, Linn county, Missouri, where he worked at his trade three years, and then engaged in merchandizing and in shipping tobacco. In 1867 he removed to Meadville, where he has since been merchandizing and where he does a business averaging 125,000 per year. Mr. Black was appointed postmaster there by President Grant in 1868, and still holds that oflice,. giving entire satisfaction in the discharge of its duties. He was appointed land agent for the Hannibal & St. Joseph Railroad in 1874, and holds that position yet. He has also been honored with minor city and township ofiices. He is a member of the Masonic order and one of the leading citizens of Meadville. Mr. Black was married in 1862 to Miss Cynthia White, daughter of James E. and Matilda White, of Linn county, Missouri, formerly of Virginia. By this union there are five children: Frank J., Edward W., George. L., Ida Y., and Rufus E. Black.

son of Jolin and Elizabeth {nee Gutcliell) Bargar, was born in Ilari'ison county, Ohio, November 15, 1S40. In 184G, liis ])arents moved to T\iscarawas county, Ohio, wliere he lived on a farm until the breaking out of the war. He received his education in the common schools of Tuscarawas county. In September, 1861, he enlisted in Company E, Fifty-first Ohio Kegiment Volunteer Infantry, and served until the close of the war. He was in the battle of Stone River, and during the combat was so seriously wounded as to be disabled for duty for a period of six months, after which be returned to his regiment and participated in the battles of Chickaraauga, Chattanooga, Franklin, Nashville, Atlanta, Jonesborough, and was then sent to Texas, where he served till October, 1865, when he was mustered out at Victoria, having served over four years. He then returned home to Ohio. In 1869, he moved to Linn county, Missouri, to the place where he now resides. He owns a farm of 135 acres which he has acquired by his own perseverance and industry. Mr. Bargar is a very deserving and valuable citizen. He was married in 1866, to Miss Mary A. Saffer, daughter of Christain and Susan (nee Caples) Saffer, of Tuscarawas county, Ohio. He has had by this union eight children, all of whom are living: Alice, Luellen, John, Eliza A., Joseph, Agnes, Thomas M., and Anna Bell.

son of John and Eliza Barger, was born in Harrison county, Ohio, December 11, 1837. His mother's name prior to her marriage was Gatchell. When nine years of age his parents moved to Tuscaravyas county, Ohio, where he grew to manhood and received his education in the common schools of that county. He was raised on a farm till nineteen years of age, when he learned the carpenter's trade, which- he followed until the war broke out. He enlisted in October, 1861, in the Sixth Ohio Light Artillery Independent Battery and held the rank of sergeant. He participated in the battles of Stone River and Atlanta, and was in numerous other engagements. In 1864 he was promoted to second lieutenant, and assigned to heavy artillery. He was engaged within the fortifications at Nashville, at garrison work, till the close of the war. He was mustered out in October, 1865, having served four years, a brave and gallant officer. He returned home after the war, and in 1866, moved to Linn county, Missouri, where he now resides, engaged in farming and stock-raising and occasionally at his trade. He owns a s])lendid improved farm of 160 acres, well stocked, which he has acquired by his own energy and industry. He is a trustworthy citizen and highly esteemed by his neighbors. Mr. Bargar was married in 1864, to Miss Harriet Vasbinder, of Tuscarawas county, Ohio. They have three children: Stella, Adda, and William H.

Hiram K. Bargar

son of John and Eliza {nee Gatchell) Bargar, was born in Harrison county, Ohio, January 21, 1845. The following year his parents moved to Tuscarawas county, Ohio, where the subject of this sketch was raised upon a farm, receiving his education in the common schools of the county. In 1865 he came to Linn county, Missouri, where he has ever since resided, engaged in farming and stock-raising. He is recognized as one of the leading farmers of Linn county. He owns 695 acres of the very best land, which is well improved. His home place of 240 acres is a model farm, highly improved, well stocked, with 600 head of sheep, sixty head of cattle and other stock in proportion, and so well supplied with everything that makes life agreeaable as to render it one of the most attractive of homes. All of this, w^ith exception of a small amount of capital on which he commenced, is due to Mr. Bargar's indomitable pluck and good management. He was married JSovember 10, 1868, to Miss Esther Sproull, daughter of Andrew and Margaret Sproull, of Tuscarawas county, Ohio, Mrs. Sproull's maiden name was Beard.

Solomon B. Childress

son of Elisha and Sarah {nee Kelley) Childress, was born in Montgomery county, Indiana, January 12, 1830. When he was twelve years old his parents moved to Lake county, Indiana. At the early age of thirteen he left home to begin the struggle of life for himself. He went back to his native county and worked by the month. He remained in that county till eighteen years of age. He then went back to Lake county, Indiana, where he married and resided till 1857, when he moved to Linn county, Missouri, and has since been a resident of this county. In 1858 he raised a crop of corn where Meadville now stands. In 1862 he enlisted 'in Company A (afterwards Company E), Eighteenth Regiment Missouri Volunteers. He participated in the battles of Resaca, Dallas (Georgia), Kenesaw Mountain, Atlanta, Jonesborough, and was with Sherman in his march to the sea. He was also in the Grand Review at Washington and was discharged at St. Louis, in July, 1865. He returned home and in 1866 bought the farm where he now resides. He has given one of his children forty acres and owns himself one hundred and forty acres, all of wiiich he has acquired through patient toil and perseverance. He and his wife are both#members of the Second Adventist Church, and he was ordained as a minister of that church in 1879. He is a worthy and valuable citizen and has the confidence and respect of all his neighbors. He was married June 7, 1849, to Miss Lydia J. Darling, daughter of Peter and Mercy {nee Shepherd) Darling of Lake count}', Indiana. By this union he has had four children, two of whom are still living: James P,, and Annie M.

Captain Marion Cave

Among the leading men of Linn count}' stands Captain Marion Cave, a native-born Missonrian and an old resident of Linn county. He is the son of Benjamin and Jane {)iee Turner) Cave and was born in Boone county, July 5, 1832. His father was a native of Kentucky and came to Boone county in 1810. Marion was raised on a farm and educated in the subscription schools which prevailed in those days. In 1850 he went to California where he remained over four years engaged in mining. He then returned home and in 1855 located in Linneus and enwao^ed in merchandizing, which pursuit he followed until the breaking out of the war. He then closed up his business and in 1802 entered the army in defense of his country. He served as captain of Company I, Twenty-third Missouri Volunteer Infantry. He commanded his company at the battle of Atlanta and at different engagements under Sherman, and was with that general during his march to the sea. By those who were in a position to know the Captain has always been considered a brave and gallant officer. He was mustered out at Savannah, Georgia, in 1865. In 1867 he was elected treasurer, and in 1869 sheriff of Linn county - both of which positions he filled with signal ability and eminently to the satisfaction of his constituents. In 1871 he again engaged in merchandizing in Linneus which he followed until 1874. He took a leading and active part in securing the B. & S. "W., now known as the C B. & K. C. R. R. through Linn county. In fact the Captain has always been an able advocate and hearty supporter of public improvements, or any scheme for the advancement of the general welfare of the county. In 1875 he moved to the farm where he now resides, which contains 800 acres highly improved and well stocked. He has besides, two other farms, making in all over 1,300 acres, all of which have been obtained through the Captain's constant, untiring, and patient efforts. He is one of Linn county's most prominent farmers and highly respected and honored citizens. He was married in 1856 to Miss Gertrude, a daughter of -John Parsons and Eineline {nee Prewitt) Parsons of Linn count}', Missouri. Her father came to this county in 18-11. He was a highl}' educated gentleman, being a graduate of Yale College, a prominent lawyer, teacher, and a man of considerable literary ability. He was a native of the State of Maine.

son of John and Margaret {//'fe Beckef) Grafton, was born in Clark county, Indiana, May 12, 183*J. When he was four years of age his parents removed to Adams county, Illinois, where he was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools. In 1861 Mr. Grafton worked a while at the carpenter's trade, l)ut in 1862 gave it up to enlist in C^ompany K, One Hundred and , l^ineteenth Illinois Infantry. He was stationed at Jackson and Memphis,

Tennessee, and in 1864 was assio:ned to A. J. Smith's celebrated corps, serving in that command until the close of the war. He participated in the battles of Plef^sant Hill, Franklin, Nashville, Spanish Fort, and numerous minor enffajjements. At the close of the war Mr. Grafton returned to Adams county, Illinois, and followed his trade until 1867, when he removed to Linn county, Missouri, and farmed one year, when he came to Meadville, In 1882 he purchased a furniture store, has a line stock on hand and is doing a flourishing business. Mr. Grafton was married in 1862 to Miss Mary Smith, of Schuyler county, Illinois. She died in 1875. There were three children born by this union; two of them living, William S. and Glara J. Mr. Grafton was again married in December, 1878, to Miss Mary Morris, of Laclede, Linn county, Missouri. He is a member of the A. O. U. W., and has been constable two terms. He is a substantial and worthy citizen.

son of Bernhart and Sarah Gahn,was born in Edgeville, Lyon county, Kentucky, March 19, 1848. His early boyhood was spent at school and in his father's store. At the age of fourteen years he was left an orphan and soon after entered Princeton Gollege,in his native county. When nineteen years old he comnienced the study of medicine, and graduated at the old Kentucky School of Medicine at Louisville, Kentucky, in 1871. He then practiced medicine at Hopkiiisville, Kentucky, with Dr. R. M. Farleigh, a prominent physician of that place. Hemaining with him a year, he returned to Louisville and graduated at the Louisville Hospital School in 1873, and at the Louisville Medical University in 1874. He practiced his profession in Louisville till 1876, when he located at Meadville, Linn county, Missouri,, having married that year. Miss Sarah A. Stewart, of Louisville, Kentucky. Dr. Gahn has established a large and lucrative practice in Meadville and the surrounding neighborhood. He is a man of ability and energy and is the architect of his own fortune.

Albert J Creamer

is a son of Davis and Rachel (Christy) Greamer, and was born in Fayette county, Ohio, January 30, 1854, where he continued to live till 1870. His father died when Albert was five years old. He was reared on a farnj, receiving a good common school education. In 1870 he and his mother came to Linn county, Missouri, and in 1874 he began clerking for S. Brandenberger of Linneus. He remained in that position two years and then began fanning. His health being poor, he rented his farm and moved to Meadville in January, 1882. In March, following, he and his brothers bought out the firm of M. D. Smith & Son, grocers, and are doing a thriving business. He was married in 1874 to Miss Jessie Buckman, daughter of Jesse and Mary Buckman, of Linn county. They have one child, a daughter named Abbie L. Mr. Creamer is a young gentleman of stead}- habits, and has many warm friends among the people of the county.

Lewis A. Ciikisman

was born in Grundy county, Missouri, November 22, 1853. He is the sou of Michael and Lydia {nee Brooks) Chrisman, and continued to live in Grund}' county till he was thrown. He received a good education in the schools of his native county, sufficient, at least, for all ordinary business purposes. In 1874 he took a trip to Indiana, and was gone about a year. He then came to Linn county, tins State, and went to work with his father at his grist mill and woolen factory near Linneus, continuing up to 1877. During this period he took a thorough course in ornamental' penmanship, India ink-work, and crayon drawing, which he subsequently taught to others. In 1877 he went to Meadville and engaged in the restaurant business on a small scale. This, however, he gradually increased, adding a grocery stock, and snbsequentl}' o])ened more extensively as a hotel. He sold his stock in March, 1882, and rented out his building, and the same month bought out the partner of Mr. Itudder, and himself became the partner of the latter in the grocery business. Mr. Chrisman owns real estate to the value of $1,000 in addition to his interest in the grocery stock, all of which he has accumulated since locating at Meadville. He is a square business man, and enjoys the confidence of the people. Mr. Chrisman was married in 1878, to Miss Jennie Purdin, of Linn county. Three children have ben born of this union, named Herald 0., Floy, and Ora N. Chrisman.

James Darling

This gentleman is the son of Peter and Mary (Bowers) Darling, and was born in Erie county, Ohio, February 28, 1837. His grandfather served as a soldier in the Revolutionary struggle for American independence. In 1844 James' parents moved with him to Lake county, Indiana. His mother died when he^was seven years old, and at the tender age of ten years he began the battle of life for himself, working for wages at $3 per month. He continued working for the same man for eight years, which goes for evidence of the fact that he must have been of great service to his employer. In 1857 he went to Kankakee county, Illinois, where he engaged in farming till the great civil war. On August 3d, 1861, he enlisted for the Union canse in Company D, of the Forty-second Illinois Infantiy, and served till December, 1865, making him four years and four months in the army. He participated in the battles of Island 'No. Ten, Corinth, Stone River, Chickamauga, Resaca, Kenesaw Mountain, Atlanta, Jonesborough, Spring Hill, Franklin, and Nashville, besides numerous skirmishes and minor engagements. He entered the army as a private, but filled by promotion all the non-commissioned ranks of the company. In 1865 he was ap])ointed first lieutenant, and held that rank till they were mustered out in 1865 in the State of Texas. He made i gallant soldier, but managed, however, to es- cape with but one slight wound. Returning to his home in Illinois, he remained till 1869, when he moved to Linn county, where he has since resided engaged chiefly in farming. In 1881 he rented his farm and moved into Meadville. He owns a place of 180 acres, besides his residence in town. Mr, Darling was married September 3, 1866, to Miss Jane Mc- Kane, a native of Ohio, and daughter of Thomas and Nancy (Bowers) Mc- Kane, of Kankakee county, Illinois. Five children have been born of thi& marriage, two of whom, Nancy B. and Melvina R., still survive.

Gilson Eakin

son of James and Jane {nee Lemon) Eakin, was born in Venango county,. Pennsylvania, October 30, 1839. His father was a native of Ireland and his mother a native of Pennsylvania. He was raised on a farm in his native county and received a common school education. At the age of twenty he went to work in the oil regions where he remained five years, at the end of which time he had accumulated the handsome sum of $16,000. Out of this sum he paid in cash $13,000 for a farm, and pursued farming for three years. But not liking the slow and tedious process of making money incident to farming operations, he moved back to the oil regions again. His second experience, however, was quite different from his first and proved disastrous to his finances. In 1874: he moved to Meadville, Linn county, Missouri, and for two years worked at the carpenter's trade. In 1876 he moved to the farm where he now resides. This place he purchased in 1879. The farm consists of 340 acres stocked with ninety head of cattle and other stock in proportion, all of which has been acquired through Mr. Eakin's own unremitting efforts. He was married in 1861 to Miss Isabella McCray of Venango county, Pennsylvania, She died January 6, 1872. He had by this union two children, living: Edith J. and Rachel Ann. He was again married December 6, 1873 to Mrs. Dora Zepp, formerly a Miss Radimaker, a native of New York State. By this union he has two children: George G. and Melvina.

Thomas D. Evans

was born in Madison county, Kentucky, September 6, 1844. His parents were William and Paulina {nee Cornelison) Evans, both natives of Kentucky. In 1856 the family moved to Pettis county, Missouri, and lived in that county and in Saline till 1864. During the civil war he was enrolled in the Sixty-second Regiment Missouri State Militia, and was in active service four months. His military experience, however, was confined to this State, and he took part in no very heavy battles. He participated in the Marshall fight in Saline county, and other lighter skirmishes. In 1864, he came to Meadville in this connty, and opened the only store that the place then had. He continued merchandizing for five years, and" during that time served as postmaster and depot and express agent for the railroad. In 1869 he moved to the place on which he still resides in Parson Creek township. His farm contains 240 acres of finely improved land, which Mr, Evans manages very successfully. He has creditably tilled several township offices, and was supervisor nnder the township organization, which made him, ex officio^ a member of the County Court, Himself and wife are both members of the Christian Church. June 30, 1868, he was married to Miss Nancy Botts, daughter of Seth Botts, Sr,, and Elizabeth Botts. Mrs, Evans's father was one of the pioneer settlers of Linn county, and served as a lieutenant in Captain Hamilton's company under General Jackson in the War of 1812, and was in the battle of JSTew Orleans, He died in Linn county at the advanced age of eighty-seven. Mr, and Mrs, Evans are the parents of seven children, six of whom still survive, named respectively: Edwin E., Seth D., AVilliam B,, Walter E., Adella and Cornelison.

Stephen A. Field

son of William and Cleopatra {nee Henley) Field, was born in Eandolph county, Xorth Carolina, October 2, 1850, where he lived until he was eio-hteen years old, being reared on a farm and educated in the common schools. In 1869 he came to Chillicothe, Missouri, attended William F. Miller's Academy, and in 1871 commenced the study of law with Luther T, Collier. A year later he was admitted to the bar by Judge Jonas J. Clark. Durinothe years 1873-74-75, he acted as deputy steriff of Livingston county. In 1878 located in Cunningham, Chariton county, Missouri, and in July of the same year settled at Meadville, Missouri, where he has since practiced his profession and is the present city attorney and clerk. Mr, Field is a young lawyer of fine ability and promise, and already has established himself in a lucrative practice.

The subject of this sketch was a son of Daniel and Susan [nee Anderson) Grant, and was born in Bourbon county, Kentucky, Februarj' 15, 1818. When he was about three years old, his parents moved with him to Boone county, Missouri, where Daniel grew up and received his education. Mr. Grant was one of the pioneers of Linn county, as he came as early as 1838, settling on a farm in Parsons Creek township. Here he engaged in stock-raising, and dealing largely in live stock; out of which business he amassed quite a fortune. Being a frank, open hearted and generous man, he was too prone to judge other men by himself; and over confidence in the ability and intngrity of his business partner at last wrought his financial ruin. He lost heavily, and never survived the mental shock his reverses caused him; and so depressed and unsettled was his mind from that cause, that he suicided June 16, 1869. During the civil war, Mr. Grant had served on the Union side in the Missouri State Militia, in which he held the rank of sergeant. He had been married August 2, 1838, to Miss Elizabeth Grant, the only child of John D. and Mary R. Grant of Boone county. Her father was a man of considerable wealth, and had served in the War of 1812, He also came to this county in 1838, and died the succeeding year, while serving as county surveyor. Mrs. Elizabeth Grant still resides on the old homestead. She had thirteen children, two only of whom still survive, Susan R., wife of S. A. Willbarger, and Columbus, who still resides with his mother at the old home.

Twining Goodale

son of Austin and Marinda {nee Twining) Goodale, was born in Jeiferson, Ashtabula county, Ohio, September 13, 183Y. His grandfather was a soldier in the Revolutionary War. Young Twining was reared on a farm and received his education in the common schools, and at Grand River Institute. He then learned the carpenter's trade and worked at it in Michigan and Iowa up to 1865, when he came to Chillicothe, Missouri, and a year later settled at Meadville, Linn county, where has since resided. In 1869 Mr. Goodale and Mr. M. Johnson engaged in the furniture trade together. The firm is now doing a large business, amounting to not less than $6,000. Mr. Goodale was married April 16, 1870, to Miss Harriet S. Lee, of Jefferson, Ashtabula county, Ohio, but formerly of New York. She died June 14, 1878, leaving two children, one of which survives, Clarence T. Mr. Goodale was again married September 25, 1880, to Miss Mary A. Gibbs, daughter of Harvey and Abagail {)iee Kinney) Gibbs, of Chatauqua county, New York.

Lucius N. Goodale

son of Austin and Marinda {nee Twining) Goodale, was born in Ashtabula county, Ohio, July 8, 1840, where he was reared to mitnhood, being educated in the common schools and at Grand River Institute, in his native county. After this he followed farming and school teaching, until he entered the volunteer service in the late war to assist in repelling Morgan's celebrated raid into Ohio. In 1864 Mr. Goodale served in an engineer corps in northern Georgia. After the close of hostilities he came to Chillicothe, Missouri, and went to work for the Hannibal & St. Joseph Railroad Company as baggageman and assistant ticket agent. He learned telegraphy while there, and in March, 1866, was assigned to Meadville to take charge of the railroad business there, where he remained as ticket agent and operator until 1879. Soon after locating in Meadville, Mr. Goodale also engaged in the lumber business, which he still continues, averaging a trade of fifty car loads of lumber per year. He has held the ofiice of justice of the peace, and is one of the present township trustees. He is a member of the Congregational

"Church and has held the office of deacon in the same for four years. He is also a member of the Masonic order. Mr. Goodale was married February 20, 1869, to Mary Ballington, of La Porte county, Indiana. By this union there are two children, Clinton F. and Stella M. Mr. Goodale is regarded «8 one of the most influential and energetic citizens of Meadville.

Hill W. Gkafton

is the son of Salem and Hannah (Jones) Grafton, and was born in Hardin county, Ohio, September 16, 1844:. There he grew up, receiving a common school education. When the civil war broke out, young Hill, then but seventeen years old, gave his service to the preservation of the Union by enlisting in company C, of the Eighty-second Ohio, and served until the end of the war. He was appointed orderly-sergeant in 1862, and saw most of his service in the valley of Virginia. He was in the battles of Romney, Brock's Gap and in McDowell and Fremont's campaign in the valley, participating in numerous skirmishes of that march. AVas in the battles of Cross Keyes, Cedar Mountain, White Sulphur Springs, second Bull Run, Chancellorsville, and Getteysburg. He was then transferred to General Hooker's command and took part in the battles of Lookout Mountain and Nashville. In June, 1865, he was mustered out and returned to his home. In 1866 he came to Linn county, Missouri, where he has since resided, engao-ed in farming. Mr. Grafton was married July 22, 1865, to Miss Jemima, daughter of Parker and Catharine Everett, of -Hardin county, Ohio. Two children have been born of this union, named Fannie E. and Don C. Mr. Grafton served as township assessor, and has served two terms as deputy county assessor, and was a member of the township board two years. He is now living on his farm in Parsons Creek township, and is well respected by all who know him.

son of John and Susan Hall, was born in Oneida county, New York, April 13, 1837. In 1838 his parents moved to Cuyahoga county, Ohio, where he lived till fourteen years of age. His father died when James was but twelve years old, and at fourteen he started out to make his own livino-. He went to Michigan and worked in the lumber district till nineteen years of age and also learned the carpenter's trade. In 1857 he moved to Dubuque county, Iowa, and back again to Michigan the following year, locating in Hillsdale county, where he resided till 1866, when he moved to Linn county, Missouri. In 1877 he moved to the farm where he now resides. AVhen he landed in Missouri he had twenty-live cents, his wife and three children. He now owns a highly improved farm of 200 acres which he has acquired by his own push and indefatigable energy since his arrival in Linn -county. He is an industrious, worthy, and respected citizen of Linn county.

He was married in 1857 to Lucy J. Emmons, daughter of Amasa and Laura (^nee Smith) Emmons of Hillsdale county, Michigan. He has had by this union four children, three of whom are still living: Ansel, James B., and Rosa May.

"v whose portrait accompanies this sketch, is the son of John and Elizabeth X"^ "^we<3 Walker) Harvey, and was born in Howard county, Missouri, August 22, 1827. There he passed his time till manhood, receiving an ordinary but substantial education at the county subscription schools. In 1847 he came to Linn county, Missouri, and engaged in teaching, having taught the first school in Parsons Creek township. In 1849 Mr. Harvey purchased the farm where he now resides, and engaged in agricultural pursuits. In 1859 he taught the first school in the town of Meadville. In 1850 he was elected justice of the peace and has held that office up to the present writing, 1882, with the exception of only six months. During all those thirtytwo years as justice of the peace, he has had but two decisions reversed by a higher court, and has acted as administrator on numerous estates. In 1852 Mr. Harvey was a candidate for sheriff on the Whig ticket and wasdefeated by only forty-nine votes, the county having over 100 Democratic majority. In 1864 he was a candidate for judge of the County Court, and in 1870 was elected public administrator, on the People's ticket by over 1,000 majority, his competitior being Judge C. Boardman, himself a very popular man. In 1880 Mr. Harvey was elected to represent his county in the legislature, and is its present representative. At the last regular session he served on the committees on education, internal improvements, judicial and congressional districts, and fees and salaries. He has represented his county ably and with honor to himself and his constituents. Mr. Harvey has been a member of the Masonic fraternity, and filled various offices in his lodge. He is also a member of the A, O. U. W.', and when a boy joined the old Washington Temperance Society, and organized the first Good Templars' lodge in Meadville. He and his wife have beeu members of the Christian Church for over thirty years. During the late war Mr. Harvey acted as a peacemaker between his neighbors and succeeded in accomplishing much good in that capacity, being an honest citizen, a true Christian, and a zealous Mason. He has always been a most trustworthy, yet aggressive politician, and a warm advocate of the cause of education. Mr. Harvey was married April 22, 1849, to Miss Elvira Thompson, daughter of George and Elvira {nee Smith) Thompson, a native of Howard county, Missouri. By this union there were five children, four of whom are living: Grace L., Florence B., John W., and Eustatia. Mr. Harvey owns a fine farm of 680 acres, adjoining the town of Meadville. There, surrounded by a happy family and all the comforts of life, he lives a highly esteemed citizen.

Lewis Hallenberg

son of John and Margaret Hallenberg, was born in Germany, September 1, 1832, where he lived until twenty j'ears old, and in 1853, emigrated to the United States and located in St. Lonis. There he learned the wagon-maker's trade, and worked at it until 1857, when he came to Linneiis, Linn county, Missouri, where he carried on his trade until 1866, when he engaged in farming for three years. In 1869 Mr. Hallenberg located at Meadville, where he has since followed the manufacturing of wagons and carriages. He has been very industrious and enterprising and has accumulated a handsome competency, and is a highly respected citizen. Mr. Hallenberg was married in 1858 to Miss Maria E. Britman, of Madison county, Kentucky. By this union there were ten children, six of whom are living: John M., Seward, Lizzie, Mary A., Lewis C, and Ida Bell Hallenberg.

William Ii. Hinton

son of Simeon and Sarah {7iee Smith) Hinton, both of whom were natives of England. He was born in Monroe county. New York, September 8, 1841, living there till he was of age, and receiving a common school education. At the age of sixteen he set in to learn the miller's trade, at which he worked till the outbreak of the civil war. Three days after the bombardment of Fort Sumpter, Mr. Hinton enlisted in Company H, of the Twenty-eighth New York Infantry, and was sent to the Army of Yirginia. He was in Banks' campaign and retreat up the Shenandoah Yalley, and the battle of Slaughter Mountain. He was also with Pope in his campaign, and the battles of Antietara and Chancellorsville, after which he was mustered out, his term of enlistment (two years) having expired. Next he enlisted in the Twenty-fourth New Xork Independent Light Artillery, which went out in Third Regiment of Light Artillery, and served to the end of the war, latlerly acting as first duty sergeant. There were two of his brothers also in the service, the trio having served from the first call till peace was declared. He returned to Monroe county, and then spent one year in the oil regions of Pennsylvania*. In 1867, he came to Linn county, this State, where he has since continued to reside. He and J. F. Lash built the Meadville flouring mills in 1869, which they sold in 1870. In 1871, Mr. Hinton moved on his farm, and has since been engaged in buying and shipping live stock. He owns a finely improved farm of 357 acres in Parsons Creek township, which he knows well how to manage to good profit. His accumulations are the result of his own energy and industry, his success being fully merited.

Mr. Hinton was married in 1846, to Miss Mary A. Ainsworth, daughter of Luther and Sarah Ainsworth, of Monroe county, New York. Both her parents were natives of New York, and her grandfather was a Revolutionary soldier. Mr. and Mrs. Hinton are the parents of seven children, five of whom still survive, named: Dayton L., Clifford K., Simeon A., William S., and an infant not yet named. When three and a half years old Simeon had the misfortune to have his foot cut off by a mowing machine.

Mathias Johnson

son of Hans C. and Anna F. {nee Peterson) Johnson, was born on the Island of Als, belonging to the Kingdom of Denmark, November 25, 1839, where he was reared on a farm and received a good education in his native tongue. At the age of nineteen years he was apprenticed to the carpenter and cabinet trade in his native country, and served at it until 1865, when he emigrated to the United States and located in Ouondago county, New York, working at his trade three years. December 12, 1868, Mr. Johnson came to Meadyille, Linn county, Missouri, wiiere he has since resided and carried on his business. He built his present shop in 1869, and made the coffin on the of the first death in Meadville. When Mr. Johnson located in Onondago county, New York, he had only |1.10. By industry and economy he has accumulated a moderate fortune, owns a well improved farm of 100 acres, a good residence, store-room and other town property, and is doing a flourishing business of about $6,000. At present he is a member of the city council. Mr. Johnson was married in April, 1872, to Miss Catharine M. Larensen, who was born on his own native island. They grew up children together, and he left her to seek his fortune in the New World. When he had succeeded she joined him in this country. They have three children : Annie, Hans, and Minnie.