Lincoln Township

Situation And Description

Lincoln, the northeast township in Daviess county, is located mostly in township sixty-one of range twenty-six. One mile wide, however, running across the north part of the township its entire width. is in congressional township No. 62. It contains some of the most beautiful tracts ot land to be found in Daviess or any other county. A imaguiticent prairie, gently undulatiny, giving ita natural drainage and at the same time giving the whole country a beautiful and picturesque appearance to the eve of the traveler as he passes through its well cultivated fields am] views the pleasant homes and well kept fences ot its energetic and industrions citizens. Lincoln township, like nearly all of the others in the county, is in size a congressional township, being six miles square. It is bounded on the north by Harrison county, on the east by Grundy county, on the south by Jamesport, and on the west by Washington township, and has thirty-six sections or twentythree thonsand and forty aeres of which the assessor returns twenty-three thonsand and thirty-eight and nineteen one-hundredth acres.

As has been before remarked the township is nearly all prairie, Int still it is far trom being devoid of woodland. Numerous creeks traverse its boundaries giving both wood and water. The principal creeks and streams which pass through, nearly all of which take their rise within the territorial limits of the township, are Pilot Grove Creek, Bullard's Branch, Lang Creek

Little Creek, Hickory Creek, and several other streams which fairly interlace the township and upon whose banks a supply of wood is found. Numerous springs also dot the surface, and wells of good water are found at the depth of from fifteen to forty feet. Thus nature has done much for Lincoln township, and now it is only man's work that is needed to make it blossom like the rose, giving fair homes and full granaries to those who do their work thoroughly and well.

First Settled

It was sometime after the central, southern, and western portions of the township were settled before Lincoln could boast of being the liome of the white man, and while Honey Creek township could boast of a settlement as early as 1881, and Lick Fork in 1832, and Grindstone in 1538, it was not until 1837 that these beautiful and sloping prairies became the home of the stalwart pioneer.

In the latter year came John Williams, a live Kentuckian, who settled on section thirty-one, in the southwest corner of the township. James Means, the same year staked his claim on section thirty. Mrs. Sarah Williams placed her cabin on the same section. These were from Kentucky. Peter Bear, tur along time one of the county justiees, came in 1839 from the muddy banks of the fowing Muskingum in Eastern Ohio. He came in Mareh of that year and also staked out a home on section thirty. John Mikels, while from Kentucky, originally, moved to Lincoln township from Indiana, and came in Mareh and settled on section thirty-one. Reuben Macy eae in 1838, and so did Thomas Brown. Then came William and Berg. Shirley, and Jacob Brown trom Indiana and Ohio, most of whom are still living, enjoying the fruits of a well-spent lite, honored and respected by all.

Then we have Joseph Everly, originally from Pennsylvania, who eame from Indiana direct, and he too tried section thirty, as a place to start im life. This settlement was on what was called Pilot Grove Creek, and was called the Pilot Grove Settlement, and the church of the Baptist denomination was called the Pilot Grove Baptist Church. It was not long before other portions of the township, received their quota of the new arrivals, and although slow to settle, vet Lincoln proved that her growth was solid, and that her enterprising people were gaining fully as fast in this world's goods as any of her sister townships, Like the early privations of other sections, the pioneer of Lincoln found theirs, and they, too, traveled nearly one-hundred miles for supplies, taking from ten to twelve days for a trip, and they ground their corn at a horse-mill, or hand-mill, or pounded it in the burnt hollow ofa log. Brunswick, Lexington and Richmond were their principal trading points, but in later years, Chillicothe received a large portion of their trade. These corn-mills were pretty slow and it was actually reported of one of these mills of those early years, that the meal failing to come through, it was discovered that three turkey goblers ad perched themselves by the feed, and were eating the corn as fast as it fell inte the hopper. This was the story of one of these mills, very slow in its work. and never hearing that the story was ever seriously contradicted, we are fain to believe in its truthfniness. Like the boy who went to a mill and got tired of waiting for his grist, exclaiming with great impatience and sarcasm that "he could eat the meal as fast as it was ground." The miller wanted to know of the boy how long he could do it, and the boy exclaimed, " until T starved to death." It will be seen that there are strong grounds for belief in the turkey story, and that in those early days there were some very slow vrict-mills and with an aptitude for simile on the part of the pioneers that would be no diseredit to the present generation with all the advancements claimed to have been nade since in the use of the English language and for terse expression, The prairie fires which oceurred almost every fall, were the eause of the destruction of considerable property, crops and fences going down before the devouring Hames, but they were closely watched and not allowed to get headway when it could be helped. While the pioneers fought the fire wild animals could be seen Heeiny from the danger, fearing man mach Jess than the fire. John Mikels counted no less than sixty-five wolves in going a distance of fourteen miles, fleeing from the track of the tire.

In 1841 and 1842 quite a number of immigrants settled in the western and northern part of the township, and a few years later there was a pretty general settlement. The prairies were rich and yielded bountifully and those who came before were now writing to their eastern and southern friends of the elysium they had fonnd in the west, and to come and see the rich farming lands. They came and saw and settled, and thus has Lincoln grown up a band of bruthers,coming so many from the same places that communities have been formed and old ties renewed that had their first inception in the homes of their parents and the playmates of their childhood.

As They Happened

The first marriage, the date of whieh memory has kept green, was that of Miss Maria Seats to Samuel Haves. The nuptial ceremony was performed at the house of Joseph Everly in the mouth of December, 1549, by the Rev, William Mikels. The young couple started ont with a host of friends and their well wishes, and had bright anticipations of their own happiness.

The Rey. William Mikels, a Baptist divine, was the tirst preacher of the gospel in the township. He preached at the house of Joseph Everly in the year 1839 and at other places, and organized what has since been known as the Pilot Grove Baptist Church in the year 1840. Tle has always been an earnest and consistent worker in the chureh.

The first school was taught by James Jetteries in the year 1844. This was in a log school-house on section thirty, put up by the surrounding neighbors, primitive in style but fully up to houses of edneation erected in those days. This school numbered trom ten to fifteen scholars and being a subseription school, the teacher received a salary of fifteen dollars per month. Mr. Jetieries is now, or wus when last heard trom. a minister of the gospel, and was preaching in Towa.

The first regular school-house was built in 1855,and was erected by Alexander Gillilan at a eost to the district of $140. It was a frame house and was at that time considered one of the finest in the county, It was known as the Brown school-honse. The first school tanght in it was by Caleb Smith, who still lives an bonered citizen with a large family of children and grandchildren growing up around him,

Dr. D. B. Till lias the honor of being the oldest permanent physician in Lincoln township. Tle eame from Adams county, Illinois, and settled near Banerott, at which place he now lives. He belongs to the homeopathic school of medicine and still enjoys a large practice and is respected and honored by all.

In the industrial arts, Mrs. Hannali Everly wove the first cloth in the township, one of those early pioneer women whose strong sense and active hands. were the groundwork of suecess of pioneer life.

Churciies,--Pilot Grove Church

This is the oldest church in the township and one of the oldest in the county, and is of the Duptist denomination, It was originally organized in 1840, by Rev. William Mikels, its first pastor, and the original members were Joseph Everly and wife, John Mikels and wife, Jolin J. Everly, Lucy Bear and Mrs. Sarah Mikels. The congregation built a log chureh in the summer of 1545, at a cost of about $100. The pastors were Revs. William Mikels, Elijal Morrill, John Smith, William Baldwin and Joseph Wood. The church grew and flourished until 1857, when a new place of worship was erected at a cost of SSU0, The tirst pastor of the new church was Rev. William Baldwin. Those who were members at the time of the erection of the new church were Jndge Peter Bear, Jolin Mikels. Hadley, Moses and Thomas Brown, and a number of others whose names were not sent in. They now have a very fine church, thirty-two by forty-eight feet in size, neatly finished and furnished, and have a present membership of 160. It is in every way in a snecessful condition.

Methodist Episcoval Church

This church had quite an early organization in the township, but the first church was not erected until 1868. This was a handsome building, costing $1,000, and was dedicated hy the Revs. Hale and Hanley, the same year. The church has been of steady growth, in youd financial condition and hasa following of sixty-two earnest and faithful members of God's household, This church is located at Bancroft.

Old School Baptist Church Christian Cipurch

This is one of the old churches of the township and was organized early in 1859. Among the original members were Francis Burrell! and wife, Lueretia Ward, J. M. Ward and wife, William Brandon, 8. Haynes and others. The church was never dedicated. The first pastor was Rev. James M, Ward, who still holds the position. The church has a membership of between forty and fifty, and a neat frame church edifice, which cost some S700. It has not been of rapid growth, but seems to have kept up with the general increase of population of the township and of the chureh in other seetions, CHRISTIAN CIPURCH.

This is anew church in the township, and was not organized until 1880, and is known as the Whitefield Christian Chureh. A place of worship was erected in ISSO, soon after its organization, and dedicated in the fall of that year. The building cost $1,000, and is a substantial one. 'The church is near the south line of the township and is in a prosperous condition, having a membership at this time of fifty-six. The pastor is the Rey. J. P. Jordan, The original members were Peter Nighswonger and wife, Abram Nighswonger and wife, William Robinson and wife, Quintes Robinson and wife, GC. D. Prior and others. The chureh is out of debt and have in connection with the church a flourishing Sunday-school of full thirty scholars in attendance under the superintendeney of A, W. Nighswonger.

Baptist Cuurch

This church known as Wood's s Baptist Church was erected in 1580 and is under the pastorate of Rey. Joseph Wood. It is situated three miles southeast of Bancroft and has a membership of forty-tive. It has quite a large following and many earnest workers in its cause.

T12 History Of Daviess County Catholic Cilurch

In the year 1878, June 28, a Catholic Church was dedieated by the Right Reverend Bishop Hogan, assisted by the Revs. Kennedy and O'Leary. The ceremonies were very imposing and a large concourse of people from the surrounding country attended the dedication. The church was small in number at the time but had strong hopes of improvement. It is situated only a short distance from Baneroft.

This township has been one of the foremost in the cause of edneation in the county, but four in the county exceeding her in the number of schools taught, and two of these being greater in territory. Lincoln, in reality, ranks third according to size, and aseand according to population in the number of schools taught within her border. Her citizens stand high in this respect and Lineoln tow telitp can boast of six new, well finished school-houses, and furnished with all the necessary school apparatus. These schools have flourished because good teachers were secured, or none.

With this record of schools and churches to educate and elevate the citizens, and with well cultivated fields and flowing granaries, there is little cause for the people of Lincoln township to complain, and much in their progress and success for others to emulate,

The town of Baneroft is pleasantly situated in the northwest corner of the township, and is located in townships sixty-one and sixty-two, being on the township line dividing them, and about one mile from the Sullivan county line and the same distance from the west line of the township. Is is principally built upon sections five and thirty-two. It was laid out in the year 1857, by Joiim Oram and Thomas Mikels, each giving five acres of land tor the siteof the town. The first merchant being Washington Nichols and the first blacksmith shop was that of Lon. Chaplin, whose sturdy blows upon the anvil made mnusie for the villagers, and at the same time told of energetiec and honest work.

Bancroft has not grown rapidly nor has it caused any rivalry. It is the only village in the township, and is a busy, lively little place of some 150 inhabitants, and commands a good tr aide, being surrounded by a splendid agricultural country and well-to-do farmers. One of the institntions of the village i is the brass band, which was organized early in the decade between 1870 and 1880. This band attended the Gentry County Fair in September of 1873, a premium of $100 having been offered for the best musical performance at the fair, To the eredit of the Baneroft brass band let it be said they took in that $100. The first leader was William E. Peery, The band is now made up as follows, and still holds its well-earned reputation: E. S. Jolinson, leader, E-flat cornet; W.J. Weldon, B-flat cornet: Charles A. Chaplin, first alto; James Endicott, second alto; W. E. Peery, B-flat tenor; William Oram, barytone; H. E. Gibson, tuba; Jolin B. Markey, bass drum.

Business

Mitehell & Thornberg, general merchandise; Weldon & Hendricks, general merchandise; H. E. Gibson, hardware store; W. R. Hendricks, drugs, paints and oils; there are three practicing physicians, Dr. D. B. Hill, spoken of in the early history of the township; Dr. R. L. Green, of the eclectic school, who deservedly stands high; and Dr. G. A. Lierlie, a young man of solid sense and attainments, reared in the township, and enjoys a good practice; John Gordon, blacksmith; Samuel L. Turley, shoeshop; A. F. Hendricks, postmaster; C. H. Weldon, drugs; Gibson & Johnson, blacksmiths, and an agricultural store, The grangers have a fine hall over one of the dry goods stores,in the second story, handsomely finished and furnished. With two churchies, a fine school, a stirring business place and neat residences, Bancroft presents the pleasing look of a thrifty and comfortable village. Its property valuation in 1870, as returned by the assessor, was $3,625. Tt now far exceeds these figures, but of late years no separate assessment has been made.

Official Record

Lincoln township was first organized in 1870, and was taken from the territory of Grand River, being one of the three original townships in the county and the largest of the three. The municipal boundaries have been described ona previous page. It was not until what was called the new township organization law was passed, that township officers were elected, outside of constable and justices of the peace. That law passed the General Assembly in the winter of 1871-72, and township officers were elected the spring following. The law was repealed in 1877-75, aud reénacted in the session held in the years 1880-S1, and is, therefore, now in force.

te ata 8 Sivas A Wood, collector; James Moss, constable; Royal Mitchell and William Cole, justices of the peace. ; _ 1873 - Nathan Nichols, supervisor; Ralph W oodward, clerk; Joseph Wood, collector; Martin L. Bear, assessor; James M. Moss, constable; William R. Cole and Henry E. Gibson, justices. 1874 - Nathan Nichols, trustee; Ralph Woodward, clerk; Martin L. Bear, assessor; Joseph Wood, collector; R. J. Mitchell, justice. os 1875--Nathan Nichols, trustee; Ratph Woodward, clerk; F. M. Madden, assessor; James M. Smith, collector; Timothy G. Scott, constable; R. J. Mitchell and Joseph Wood, justices. The latter resigned, and J. F. Mitchell was appointed to take his place.

1877 - Gerard E. Graves, trustee; J. H. Herndon, clerk; James M. Moss, assessor; M.G. Netherton, collector; Timothy G. Scott, constable; R. J. Mitchell and John T. Mitchell, justices of the peace.

1881 - M. G. Netherton, justice; John Markey, clerk; Solomon Wiles, collector; Timothy G. Scott, constable; H. E. Gibson and G. E. Graves, justices of the peace.

Biographical Sketches

The subject of this sketch was born in Ohio, February 12, 1825, and lived there until he was twelve years old, when his parents moved to Indiana, bringing him with them, and in the latter State he grew to manhood and completed his education. He began farming in Indiana, and continued there until the fall of 1853, when he went to Greene county, Iowa, and remained two years. Tn 1855 he moved to Daviess county, this State, and settled in Lincoln township, where he has ever since been engaged in farming and stock-growing. His splendid farm contains 480 acres of fine land, and naturally and artificially adapted to the stock business. His average production of live-stock per year is, of cattle, twenty-tive head; hogs, 100 head; and sheep, 550 head.

Mr. Barngrover was married, in Indiana, June 17, 1852, te Miss Mary A. Payne, anative of Ohio, born March 31,1833. Three children have resulted from this uniou: John R., born June 5, 1853; George W., born July 17, 1856, and died May 1,1880; Sarah E., born January 1, 1860, and died September 2, 1881. The last named was married to Mr. William Booram, April 21, 1878, and they became the parents of two children, James E. and Charles W., whom Mrs. Booram was forced to leaye motherless after a short illness. Mr. Barngrover has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Churel over forty years, and his good wife has been a metber for upwards of thirty years. 'his exemplary couple is worthy the emulation of all newly-mar. ried young people whe would be happy.

Isaac W. Booram

This gentleman was born in Kanawha county, Virginia (now West Virginia), August 23, 1530. At about twelve vears of age he came with his father to Grundy county, this State, and there received his education. On arriving at the proper age, he commenced farming for himself, and still eoutinues in that worthy walk of life. In Mareh, 1553, Mr. Boorain moved to Lineoln township, this county, where he has ever since resided. He owns # well-improved farm of 200 acres, on whieh he has a good residence aud barn, the entire place being well appointed in every particular.

Mr. Booram was married, in Harrison county, Missouri, June 10, 1852, to Miss Emily Mitchell. This lady died October 27, 1359, and le was married to his second wife in Harrison county, October 14, 1560, her maiden name being Kittie A. Meyers. Four children were born of the first marriage, three of whom still survive, nuned Erastus O., Sarah L., and William, living, and Arvila J., deceased. By the second union he has three children, two of whom, Izola and Walter J., are living, and Myrtle, deceased. Mr. Booram is well known as a fair-minded, liberal man, and good neighbor.

William T'. Brown

Was born in Daviess county, Angust 29, 1853, and was reared and received his education in the county of his birth. Mr, Grown began life as a farmer, and is still engaged in that most essential of all avocations. He owns a good stock-farm of 240 acres,on which he lias a fine residence, and has his while place correspondingly improved.

He was married, in this county, February 22, 1873, to Miss Sasan Cray. They have one child, a daughter, named Mary. Mr. Brown is a thrifty farmer, and produces an average of about sixty head of cattle per annum, besides other live-stock and produce in proportion.

Charles W. Burrell

Is a native of Missouri and was born in Harrison county, November 7, 1857, and was reared and edueated in the county of his birth. On leaving school he began farming as an occupation, and continued in that calling until the spring of 1880, when he came tu this county and located in Lincoln township, where he resumed farming operations and has ever since resided. lis farm of 160 acres is well improved, and 120 acres of it are enclosed with good hedge fencing, and is nearly all in a high state of eulti vation. Mr. Burrell was married, in Harrison county, Missouri, on the 5th of

May, 1878, to Miss Alice Williams. Two children were born of this union, named Lester O., born December 26, 1879; and Clara F., born October 14, 1880. The latter died March 5, 1851.

William R. Cole

This gentleman is a native of Missouri and was born in Grundy county, September 90, 1841. He was reared and edueated in the county of his birth, and, on arriving at a suitable age, chose farming as his vocation in life. In the spring of 1868 he came to this county, where he has ever since lived, engaged in farming pursuits. He owns a splendid farm of 320 acres of well-improved land in Lincoln township, on which he and his family now reside. When the war broke ont Mr. Cole enlisted, July 31, 1861, in Company D, Second Missouri Cavalry (commonly known as " Merrill's Horse" and served, first as private, and subsequently as corporal, until September 22, 1864, when he was honorably discharged. He participated in the battle of Little Rock, and several other engagements. In 1875 he was elected justice of the peace, and served several years.

Mr, Cole was married, in Daviess county, June 2, 1870, to Miss Naney E. Brown. They are the parents of seven chiidren, ive of whom are still living. THe has been a member of the Baptist Chureh tor over eighteen years.

William I. Crews

Was born in Livingston county, this State, October 28, 1849, and there grew up and was educated. On attaining the proper age to begin life for himself, he began farming in his native county, and continued there until the spring of 1872, when he came to Daviess county, and has ever since resided here, engaged in farming. Mr. Crews owns a farm of eighty acres in Lineoln township, which he has well improved with a good house and barn, and all modern improvements to correspond, He is a careful farmer and cultivates his place to the best advantage.

Mr. Crews was married, February 17, 1876, to Miss Sarah Dinsmore, a native of Kentueky, born Mareh 30, 1848. Two children have been born of this union, both boys, named Charles E. and Franklin, the former born October 4, 1877, and the latter born June 25, 1880.

James Forth

Was born in Virginia, February 14, 1844. When he was six years old his parents moved to Grundy county, this State, remaining two years, and then moved to Arkansas. Ilis father died on that trip, in September, 1852, and was buried on the way out. The family, however, continued on the road until they reached their destination, and remained in Arkansas about two years. 'They then returned to Grundy county, Missouri, and there James lived until the war came on. In 1861 he enlisted, as a volunteer, in Com- wey Gidvharged. He participated in the battle of Pittsburg Landing, and was in Sherman's siege of Atlanta. He returned to Missouri atter his dis. charge, locating in Daviess county, where he has ever since resided, engaged . ee . mys. . Pe . * ' - e in farming. This tarm, in Lincoln township, contains 200 aeres, nicely fenced and well watered, on which he has a large new barn 40x50 feet in size, and all other improvements to mateh.

Mr. Porth was married, in Daviess county, Missouri, Mareli 26, 1873. to Miss Mary J. Bear. Two children have been born ot' this Nuion, one living,

George W., and one deceased, Leslie L. Mr. Forth is a tine business man, who always aims to deal squarely and honorably with all, and * to live and let live," as God designed when Ile made man.

Hoseph T. Fortit

This gentleman is a native of Virginia, born September 17, 1849, thongh he did not reside in that State after he was two years old, for the reason that his parents moved to Grundy county, this State, and brought the subject of this sketch with them. IH]e went with the family on the Arkansas trip mentioned in the sketch of James Forth, and returned when they did. Ie received his education wholly in Missouri, and atter his school-days were over, chose farming as a business, and is still engaged in the sume laudable calling. He owns a neat little farm of eighty acres, which he lias pat in the highest state of cultivation, it being well improved and nicely feneed with fine young hedge.

He was married. in Daviess county, November 12, 1874, to Miss Ellen Smith, a native of Missouri. By this union they have two children; named respectively, Nellie F., born December 5, 1876; and Alder C., born September 26, 1880. The former still survives, but the latter died Jannary 6, 1881.

John L. Gooding

This gentleman was born in St, Clair county, Mlinois, July 21, 1839. Tis parents moved with him teu Adams county when he was tliree years old, and there he grew up and acquired his education. He started in life asa farmer, and has ever since been engaged iu the same calling. In November, 1848, he came to Missouri and located in Lincoln township this connty, where he has ever since resided, engaged in farming and stock-dealing. He has a well improved and well adapted farm of 162 acres of good land, on which he has a neat, new residence, so located as to afford a good view of the snre

Joun A. Graham

Is a Missourian, and was born in Grundy county on the 6th of August, 1849, and reared and educated in the county of his birth. After Jeaving school he commenced milling and teaming in Livingston county, and continued in the same business until October, ISTO, when he came to Daviess county, where he has since resided, In this county he bas been engaged in farming, and now owns a neat little farm of eighty aeres in Lincoln township, which he has put in a high state of cultivation, and improved into a comtortable and profitable home.

Mr, Graham was married, in Grundy county, August 27, 1871, to Miss Carolina b. Witten, They are the parents of four children, of whom James K. and Henry W. are living; and lola H. and Bettie J. are deceased.

George W. Griffith

A native of Pennsylvania, was born June 12,1826. He received his education in the State of his birth, and, on leaving school, learned the wagonmaker's trade, at which he worked for three years. He then took up the trade of mill-wright and worked thereat tive years. Next he engaged in the saw-mill business, continuing in that line until 1862, when he began farming. Mr. Griffith inoved to Missouri in April, 1866, and located first at Chillicothe, Livingston county, where he remained until tke spring of 1867, when he came to this county, and has lived here ever since, engaged in farming. He owns a good farm of 152 aeres of land in Lincoln township, on which he and his family reside at this writing,

Mr. Griffith was married, in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, December 14, 1853, to Miss Sarah Shultz. Thirteen children were born of this union, nine of whom are still living.

William Harden

The sulject of this sketch was born in Coshocton county, Ohio, November 18, 1531. Tlis parents moved to Indianapolis, Indiana, when he was four years old, and there William was partly educated. When he was fifteen years old, they again moved, this time to Westfield, Indiana, where he completed his education. Farming was the occupation chosen by William as a life-calling, and he engaged in that honorable and independent vocation, soon after leaving school, and continued it several years in Indiana. He went to Lueas county, Iowa, from Indiana, and remained there till the fall of 1854, when he moved to Missouri, settling in Grundy county, where he engaged in farming and stock-raising, residing there till 1870. Ile then moved to this county and located in Lincoln township, where he has ever since resided. Mr. Harden owns a fine stock-farm of 320 aeres, which is well improved and in a high state of cultivation, It has a neat residence, and is fenced with Osage orange, having four and one-half iniles of hedge fencing. He was married, in Lucas county, Iowa, June 5, 1858, to Miss Sarah Smith. Vive children have been born to them; named, Laura, Frank, Annie, Monroe and Harl.

Solomon Lierley

The subject of this sketch is a native of linois, and was born July 3, 1830. At seven years old, he moved with his parents to Adams county, that State, and there he grew up and was educated. He started in lite as a farmer, and continued there till the spring of 1856, when he eame to Daviess 'county, where he continued to reside ever since, engaged in farming. He owns a farm of 320 acres of well improved land, in Lincoln township, well watered and fenced and having a fine residence and good barn, situated a quarter of a mile north of Baneroft.

Mr. Lierley was married in Illinois, October 10, 1853, to Miss Mary A. Pieree. This lady died May 3, 1872. and he married, in this county, June 15, 1873, Miss Louisa Harper. By his first union Mr. Lierley became the father of eight children, seven of whom: Sarah: E., David, Wilson, William F., Nathaniel, George W. and John L., are still living, and an infant child is dead. His seeund marriage has been blessed with one child, named Mary FE.

In 1858 he joined the Baptist Church and has lived a worthy and consistent member thereof' for nearly a qnarter of a century. Mr, Lierley's character as a mau and a neighbor, has always been such as to win him many friends.

Francis M. Madden

The subject of this sketeh was born in Logansport, Indiana, May 18, 1846, and there grew up and was partly edueated, When the war came on Mr. Madden enlisted in Company B, of the Fifty-fifth Indiana Volunteer Infantry and served three months, when he was honorably discharged. In the spring of 1865, he came to Grundy county, this State, and located at Edinburg. In the fall of 1866 he entered Grand River College, where he remained until the fall of 1879, when began school-teaching.

Mr. Madden was married, Mareh 24, 1870, to*Mrs. Elizabeth Mitchell. Mr. and Mrs. Madden have had four children, two of whom, Viola E. and Laura L., are still living; the other two, William K. and Olive J., are dead. Mrs. Madden had three children by her former marriage, all living; named, respectively, Sarah R., Laura F., and Ela L.

Mr. Madden's coming to Daviess county was in the fall of 1870, when he engaged in farming and stock-raising. He owns a fine farm of 300 acres in Lincoln township, on which he hasa fine residence, so located as to command a good view of the surrounding country.

He has been a consistent and valuable member of the Baptist Church, since 1879, and for the past five years, has been corresponding tor the American Baptist Flag. Miss Sarah Mitchell, a step-danghter of Mr. Madden's graduated at the Grand River College in June, 1881, and is now teaching in. Kyle Seminary, Hays county, Texas.

Joun Markey

This gentleman, who ranks among the largest farmers of the county, isa native of Pennsylvania, born June 18,1846. While he was but a ehild his parents moved west and settled in Illinois, where Joln grew to manhood and was edueated. On leaving school, he commenced farming as his ealling in life, and is still engaged in the same essential oceupation. In the spring of 1867 he came to Daviess county, Missouri, where he has ever since resided, giving his attention to farming and stock-raising. Mr. Markey owns a large farm of 900 acres in Lincoln township, well watered and fenced, and having a large maple grove of twenty acres for stock protection, and, in fact, has his place every way adapted to stock-raising. This farm yields, annually, from 500 to 600 head of cattle, which are shipped to market. His farmn has a fine orchard of about 200 trees, and one acre of superior grape vines, the fruit of whichis pressed into wine. Mr. Markey is a thorough business man, and his reputation for fair and honorable dealing has won him many friends.

John F. M'Dougal

This gentleman was born in Virginia, May 1, 1814, and lived there till March, 1866, and there acquired his education. His coming to Missouri was on the last named date, and here again he engaged in farming, as he had done in Virginia, though he found a much more inviting field for agrieulture here than in the time-worn " mother of Presidents." Mr. MeDougal came straight to Daviess county and settled in Lincoln township just whew this country was first recovering from the evil effects of the Civil War. He has been quite successtul asa farmer and stock-raiser, and now owns one of the best farms in Lincoln township, his place containing 327 acres of fine land which he has well improved and adapted to the stock business.

Mr. MeDongal was married, in Virginia, December 29, 1863, to Miss Harriet C. Upton, by which union they have two children; named respectively, Basil I., and Sarah M. Mr. McDougal is a live man in respect to enterprise and thrift, and bears an unspotted reputation as a man and citizen.

Moses G. Netherton

The gentleman whose name heads this sketch is another citizen who ean Doast of having been to the " manor born," being a native of Daviess eounty, born February 27, 1845. He reeeived his edueation in this county and on leaving school, began farming and has heen a farmer and stock-dealer ever since, In February, IS64, he enlisted in Company L, of the Twelfth Missouri Cavalry, and served till the war closed, and was honorably discharged in July, 1865, He participated in the battle of Nashville, Tennessee, under General George H. Thomas, and was in several other fights and skirmishes. He returned to his home after his discharge and again resumed farming.

Mr. Netherton was married, December 29, 1867, to Miss Elmira C. Brown, daughter of Jolin A. and Frances Brown. One child has been born of this union, a daughter named Oordia, born August 17, 1870.

Mr. Netherton is one of the most successful stock-dealers and stock-raisers in the county. He owns a model farm of 280 acres of excellent land, oo which he has a two-story frame residence, so located as to afford a view of the country for miles around. He has his place well stocked with fine breeds of Short-ITorn cattle and Poland China hogs. He also has a fine Clydesdale stallion five years old that has taken a number of premiums in this State and [lineis, his first one having been awarded when he was a yearling at the Mlinois State Pair. In 1866, "Mr. Netherton was elected constable of Grand River township and held that position till he moved to Lincoln township. He has served as justice of the peace, township collector, and is now serving as township treasurer; in fact, lie has not been a year without holding some kind of an office since he lett school. He has been a consistent member of the Pilot Grove Baptist Chureh for twelve years, and is in all things a worthy and valuable member of society.

Peter Nighswonger

The subject of this sketch was born in Virginia, March 22, 1817. At three years of age he went with his parents to Illinois, where he grew up and received hits: edueation. On arriving at an age to begin life for himself he commenced farming and has been chiefly engagell in that ealling ever since. He came to this State and county in 1876, and has resided here eonstantly since that period engaged in farming and stoek-raising. He owns a well-improved tarm of 939 aeres in Lincoln township, being 'well watered His residence is beauand timbered, and has three miles of hedge fencing. tifully and healthfully located, and commands a good view of the country.

Mr. Nighswonger was married, on the 6th of March, 1838, to Miss Nancy Baetaper, of Illinois, a native of Ohio, and a daughter of George and Susan Barringer. Ten children have been born of this union, eight of whom still survive. Their names in order of birth are, Angeline, Susan, Sophronia, Abram W., Eliza E., Amanda F., William A., Peter V., Lois L., and Thomas D. Those deceased are Susan and Eliza, on the respective dates of September 1, 1846, and February 12, 1861.

Joseph Rader

Was born in Franklin county, Indiana, Febrnary 19, 1842, where he continued to reside till ten years of age. His parents then moved toMissouri and settled in this connty, where Joseph grew to manhood and acquired his education, Te was reared a farmer and continued in that calling till August, 1861, when he enlisted in Company H, Twenty-third Missouri Volunteers as a soldier and served ecreditably until the time of his discharge in September, 1864. He took part in the battle of Pittsburgh Landing in April, 1862, and was there captured by the enemy and held till June 24, when he was paroled at Macon, Georgia. He was also in the campaign of Sherman from Chattanooga to Atlanta. After he left the army Mr. Rader returned to Daviess county and was here married, on the 15th of February, 1866, to Miss Martha Brown. Seven children lave been born of this union, named as follows: Thomas TI., Laura B., Floyd, Sarah J., Willard H., Francis M., and an infant. Mr. Rader moved to the place on which he now resides, April 15, 1871. His farm contains 160 acres of good land, well improved on which he has a nice residence. The place also has a fine young orchard and is in imany respects a desirable home.

Valeb Scott

Is a Kentuckian, and was reared and edueated in his native State, the date of his birth being December 12, 1808. He became a farmer on starting in lite for himself, and followed that oceupation in Kentucky till the fall of 1829. Being then of age, he went to Indiana and there engaged in farming and sehwol-teaching till the fall of 1850, when he went to Sangamon county, Ilinois, He remained there till some time in 1855, when he came to Daviess county, of which he has ever since been a citizen. Two years after his coming le was elected justice of the peace, which oftice he resigned, however, on account of ill-health. Mr. Scott was married, in Kentueky, February 28, 1830, to Miss Sarah Seott. By this union they have had twelve children, eleven of whom are still living. The names of the surviving ones are Thomas M., Matthew O., Volney B., Timothy G., Oliver G., Matilda, A., Edward D., Mary J., John W., Jacob C., and Martha E. The one deceased was a son named William.

William K. Sparks

Was born in Owen county, Indiana, May 20, 1839, and received part of his education in the county of his birth, living there till le was twelve years of age. lis parents then moved to Boone county, Iowa. and there Willian grew up and finished his education. He began farming in lowa. continuing

1) = ay ey : 2 there until 1870, when he moved to this State and county, locating in Lineoln township. He owns a farm of 140 acres of well improved land, which he has fenced with hedge tencing.

Mr. Sparks was married, in Boone county, Iowa, September 14, 1862, to Miss Deborah Williams. Nine children have been born of' this union, eight of whom are still living. Their wames are; John ©., Florence A,, illi aa , : 1 , Nathan O., William E., Graes F., Douglas B., Melvin E., and Naney A., surviving, and Thomas, deceased. Mr. Sparks is a good practical farmer, whose honesty and fair dealing has won him many friends.

John Terry

Was born in this county March 10, 1850, His parents moved to Grundy county when he was five years old, aud there Jolin was reared and edneated. He began life as a furmer and has been engaged in farming and stock-dealing ever since. In the full of 1874, he went to Texas and there engaged in stock-raising, remaining till the fall of 1878, when he returned to Missouri and settled in Daviess county, where he has ever since resided. He owns a good farm of 160 acres in Lincoln township which he has especially adapted to stock-raising and annually produces about eighty head of cattle which he ships or sells to other dealers.

Mr. Terry was married, in Grundy county, November 19, 1871, to Miss Catharine E. Kackley, a native of Grandy county, born June 50, 1548. They are the parents of three children; named, respectively, Olive M., born October 22, 1872; Lillie M., born April 22, 1874; and Effie A., born in Texas, April 16, 1877.

William M. Witten

Isa Virginian, and was born in Tazewell county, that State, on the Sth ot September, 1837. He was partly edneated in the county of his birth, but left there before completing it. In 1851 he came to Grundy county, Missouri, locating in Edinburg, and soon atterwards entered Grand River College, where he completed his education, Atter leaving school he began lite as a farmer, working with his father. He came to Daviess county in 1856 and settled in Lincoln township on a fine tract of land containing about one thousand acres, which his father had given him. After fencing this place, and putting it partially in cultivation, he must have returned, temporarily, to Virginia, for we find him in 1861, enlisted in the canse of the Confederacy, in Company A, of the Twenty-third Virginia Volunteers. He served with credit until the war closed, having held the rank of lieutenant since 1862. After the war he returned to Daviess county and again engaged in farming and stuck-raising, and is now one of the most snecessful stock-men in the county. He has one of the best appointed farms in North Missouri, consisting of 1,200 acres, it being about the largest in the county. From this place Mr, Witten ships, or sells, abont 200 head of cattle per year, besides, mules, horses, ete.

Mr. Witten was married, in Tazewell eounty, Virginia, on the 22d of December, 1858, to Miss Pamelia Gillespie, a native of that State. She died October 6, 1879, atter bearing him six children. In Mareh, 1831, he married Mrs. Ella O. Witten, a native of Tennessee. She had three children by her first marriage; named, respectively, Mary L., George T. and Sadie A. Mr. Witten had six children by his first marriage, named Mary L., William S., Thomas N., James H., Pamelia E., and Nannie F. Mr. Witten is known to all as a man of fine business qualifications and ot great force of character.

Charles F. Witten

This gentleman is a Virginian, and was born June 17, 1840, and lived in that State until the fall of 1850, when he came to Grundy county, this State, and here tinished his edneation in Grand River College. After leaving college he began farming, and continued in that county until the fall of 1859, when he came to this county and remained two years. He then returned to Grundy county and lived there until the fall of 1879, when he came back to Daviess and has never again removed. In 1861, Mr. Witten, like a troe child of the Sonth, earried out his honest principles, by enlisting in the Contederate cause, though he only served six months. He was married, in Grundy county, May 21, 1861, to Miss Matilda Adkisson. They had four ebildren as the result of this union; named, Louisa, Carrie, William and Mattie. Mrs. Witten died. Mr, Witten was married to Miss Ettie Martin, March 10, 1880, and they have one child, Tomer F.

This gentleman is a native of Grundy eonnty, this State, and was born January 24,1857. His parents moved to this county when he was two years old, and here Charles grew upand was educated. On starting in life for himself, he began farming and stock-raising, and still follows the same avocation. He owns a good farm of 180 acres of well-improved land, which is well watered, and in a high state of cultivation.

is also dead. Mr. Witten married the second time in Grundy county, his last wife being Miss Lena Farnan, the ceremony taking place April 14, 188]