Ashland City (part 4 of 57)

Adjourned Meeting

Pursuant to adjournment, the Pioneer Historical Society met at the Court-house on Friday, Oct. 8th, 1875, the President, Francis Graham, Esq., in the chair. The meeting being called to order, the minutes of the last meeting were read and adopted. The Constitution and By-laws were also read. The meeting defined Article V, to mean in the immediate neighborhood or vicinity of the present limits of the County. An error in reference to the reported ages of Major G- W. Urie and Josiah Closson, the former being 69 and the latter 55 years of age

Joseph Chandler gave the Society a lucid description of the early history of the settlement of a portion -of Ashland County. He was born in Black Rock, Maryland, and was among the first settlers in this county. He gave a description of the hominy block on which they could make corn meal without paying toll, and he also described a hand mill then in use. In some instances a tin lantern was used to grate corn. Their clothing was made of buckskin. A neighborhood sieve was made of huck-skin stretched on a hoop and punched full of holes.

Mr. John Bishop of Orange township was then called to the floor. He said he had never made a speech, but would try to talk to the Society a few minutes. He was born in Frederick Co., Mai Noland, came to Licking County, Ohio, m 1813, and to this county in February, 1815. Andrew Mason made a few remarks, giving incidents that occurred in the early history of this county. Dr. Samuel Riddle said he was 55 years of age, and was born in this (Montgomery) town-hip. He also enter tained the audience by a history of early events in his life, relating some anecdotes in reference to how he used to go to mill, etc. Mr. Enoch, Taylor of Ruggles township, was then called upon for a speech. Said he was born in Warren, Litchfield Co,, Conn , in 1787. Was in the war of 1812 and came to Ruggles in 1829, - was now 88 years old. chopped the first tree, built the first cabin and made the first pair of boots in the township. Mr. John Donley gave an account of his early life. Was born in Orange township in 1817. Mr. Robert Culbertson made some remarks, saying that he came to Orange township in 1824, and had lived there ever since. Had experienced all the privations of the early Pioneer.

At this point Dr. Hill read a letter from Melzer Tannehill Jr. of Green Tp. His father located there in 1811 (see published report). The pioneers present at this meeting, but absent last meeting are Jacob Shopbell, aged 88 years ; Enoch Taylor, 88 years ; Abraham Armentrout, 77 years; John Bishop, 82 years ; Philip Kosh, 79 }rears ; Samuel Smith, 75 years; Samuel Richards, 71 years; Joseph Doty, 63 years ; Charles Hines, (50 years ; W. G. Galloway, 69 years ; Geo. W. Riddle 60 years; Thomas Cole Jr., 55 years; Daniel B. Gierhart, 55 years ; Robert Newell, 55 years ; Mrs. Sarah Grinold, 54 ; J. M. Welch, 47 ; W. J. Vermilva, 72 ; Scott Nelson, 54 ; Isaac Gates, 59. Dr. P. I T. Clark then made some remarks on the importance of perserving all the relics belonging to the Indians or to the pre historic races that once inhabited this country. Mr. Samuel Richards of Troy township presented the Society two arrow hpads and a jxfiished stone emblem perforated with three holes. John Donley presented his Indian tomahawk to be preserved among the relies of the Society. Other relics were exhibited and should be presented to the Society by all means.

Gen. W. Slocum gave notice that at the next regular meeting he would name a change in the Constitution fixing a residence of fifty years within the limits of the county instead of forty years for membership but it was never passed. On motion Society adjoined.

Constitution And By-Laws Of The Ashland County Pioneer Historical Society

Art. II. The officers of this Society shall be a President, a Vice President for each Township, a Treasurer, a Recording Secretary, Librarian, a Corresponding Secretary and Historian, and an Executive Committee of five, all of whom shall be chosen or elected annually, and serve until their successors are chosen.

Art. III. The object of the Association is to collect and preserve historical, biographical and other information relating to the settlement and improvement of Ashland County, and to collect, catalogue and preserve all the relics relating to the Indian or other pre-historic races, who may have occupied this region.

Art. IV. The membership fee of members of this Society shall be fifty cents for contingent expenses : the purchase of a cabinet, records and for printing expenses, under the direction of the Executive Committee.

Art. YI. A majority of the Society shall have power to elect honorary members from such persons as are known to be accomplished in the Sciences or history.

Art. VII. The annual meetings of this Society shall be held at Ashland, on the 10th day of September, in honor of Perry's victory on Lake Erie, except when that day occurs on Sunday, when the meeting shall be on Saturday, the 9th of September, at which time the Recording Secretary and Treasurer shall each present full written reports of the transactions of the Society.

Art. YIII. Amendments to these articles may be made at any regular meeting by a majority vote of the members present, provided the proposed amendment shall have been filed in writing with the Recording Secretary, and notice given previous to calling for such action.

Art. IX. The President shall preside at all meetings of the Society, preserve order and see that Parliamentary usage is conformed to by the members. The Executive Committee shall act upon all expenditures, ordered by the Society, and the President countersign all orders or warrants upon the Treasurer for such accounts as may be authorized by the Executive Committee.

Art. XI. The Recording Secretary shall keep an accurate record of all proceedings of the Society and of the Executive Committee in books to be provided for that purpose, and record the Articles of this Constitution, to be signed by each member, and keep a record of all papers, documents and materials presented to or that may belong to the Society. He shall draw warrants on the Treasurer for all property, audit accounts and preserve each voucher.

Art. XII. The Treasurer shall have the custody of all money and funds of the Society, and safely keep the same and pay all warrants drawn on him by the Recording Secretary and countersigned by the President, keep a full account of all receipts and disbursements and make a full report thereof to each annual meeting, and whenever required to by the Executive Committee.

Art. XIII. The Executive Committee shall have the general management of the affairs of the Society, call such extra meetings as they may deem advisable and give notice thereof.

Art. XIV. The Vice Presidents shall assist the President in the annual meetings, and in his absence select one of their number to preside. The Vice Presidents are also expected to be especially active in their various townships in promoting the objects of this society.

Second Annual Meeting Of The Ashland County Pioneer Historical Society

and By-Laws were read, after which a letter was read by the Secretary, from Mr. Joseph Chandler giving the reasons why he was unable to attend, it being on account of ill health, which on motion was ordered to be spread on the minutes tor preservation. The members and others present, were Caleb Bryan, Peter Vannoidstrand, John Springer, Francis Graham, John Nelson, John Stoner, Thomas Bushnell, Jacob Gibson, Hugh Hamilton, Geo. W. Urie, Charles S, Vanarnum. James Wharton, Emmer Aikins, Drusilla Aikins, Nancy Sheets, Laban Burgan, A. Walker, John Tanyer, Thomas McKean, Andrew Mason, Samuel Rowland, Josiah Thomas, Joshua Ruth, William Brown, Richard Beer, John Metcalf, David Homan, Mrs. Sarah Mykrantz, Mrs. Nancy Welch, Gilbert Martien, John Smith, James Kilgore, John Berry, John Donley, Prof. J. C. Sample, Dr. O. C. Mc- Carty, Geo. W. Curry, Dr. P. H. Clark, Dr. Geo. Hill. Dr. Dill then gave a list of those members who had died since the last annual meeting consisting of Wesley Copus of Mifflin, aged 73 years ; Enoch Taylor of Ruggles, 84 years : Peter Thomas of Montgomery, 78 years; Henry Fluke of Orange, 66 years ; Charles Tannehill of Green. 84 years : James Scott of Pen*}7, 78 years ; John Krebs of Montgomeiy, 80 years : James Tavlor of Milton, 88 years; Hester Irvin of Green, 77 years; John Cuppy of Clear Creek, nearlv 80 years and Mrs. Mary Stoler of Mohecan 84 years. On motion an obituary committee was appointed consisting of Geo. W. Hill, Geo. W. Urie and Andrew Mason.

Mr. Thomas Bushnell was called upon for a speech. He responded by giving a short history of his life' and stated thar he was born in Trumbell Co., O., in 1815. Mis father removed to Havesville in 1821 and settled on the same place which he (Thomas) now owns. The President . Francis Graham then gave a history of his life. Was born in Delaware Co., Pa., in 1802. Mr. Andrew Mason entertained the audience with diverting scenes that transpired in the early times and also gave an account of the first hardships and embarressments of the inhabitants of this country. As these remarks are to be published in the Ashland papers in detail, they are not expected to be spread on the minutes. On motion of Dr. Geo. W. Hill Messrs. Isaac Smucker, R. Brinkerhoff, L. V. Bierce, Dr. J. P. Henderson, Prof. J. C. Sample and Dr. S. Dieffendorf were elected as honorary members of this association, the notice to amend the constitution referring to the length of time of residence necessary to become a member was discussed and laid on the table. This was the time for the election of officers. On motion Major G. W. Urie was unanimously elected President, and the following gentlemen as Vice Presidents : Andrew Mason of Montgomery, James Kill gore of Orange, Hamilton Porter of Sullivan, Henry Summers of Troy, Jacob Hershey of Buggies, John Bryte of Clear Creek, Hugh Burns of Milton, Thomas Cole Jr. of Jackson, Joseph Chandler of Perry, Henry Winbigler of Mohecan, Allen Metcalf of Lake, Thomas Bushnell ot Vermillion. Daniel Kauffman of Mifflin, C. C. Coulter of Green, John W. Bull of Hanover, township. On motion Dr. P. H. Clark and Dr. Geo. W. Hill were re-elected Secretaries and Isaac Stull was reelected Treasurer.

On motion the following gentlemen were elected as an Executive Committee. R. P. Fulkerson, Willard Slocum, T. C. Bushnell, J. C. Sample and Thomas Bushnell. Mr. Bushnell gave notice that the Hayesville Fair had decided to givea premium of $15 for the best lot of Archaeological and mineral specimens. The society is much indebted to Prof. J. C. Sample, M. R. Godfrey, Willie Hill and Thomas Bushnell for the exhibition of a great variety of Archaeological and mineral specimens, as well as Indian relics. On motion the meeting adjourned to meet at the Court House in Ashland on Saturday the 23rd of September 1877 at 10 o'clock at which time Dr. Geo. W. Hill will deliver his essay on the earth works of Ashland Co.

The Pioneers of Ashland Co., convened at the Court House in Ashland on Saturday the 23rd of Sept. 1876. The President Geo. W. Urie in the chair. The meeting being called to order the minutes of last meeting were read and approved. An error occu.red in the report of the last meeting relative to the marriage of Francis Graham and Amelia Shepard, which took place on the 13th of March 1823 instead of the 15th, as reported. On motion it was resolved that the report of the obituary committee be received and embodied in the minutes of the society. On motio>i it was resolved that the association furnish to each member a certificate of membership to be delivered by the Treasurer upon the payment of the initiation fee of fifty cents as required by the Constitution. Dr. Geo. W. Hill being introduced by the President then delivered his essay on the earth works of Ashland Co. Upon which remarks were made by Dr. P. H. Clark, Dr. Hill and Dr. Robinson. Dr. Hill from the obituary committee reported the following preamble and resolutions which were unanimously adopted.

Whereas, It has pleased the Almighty Giver of life and happiness to remove by death from our midst our worthy friends and Pioneers, Wesly Copus, Enoch Taylor, Peter Thomas, Henry Fluke Charles Tannehill Sr., James Scott, John Krebbs, James Taylor, Mrs. Hester Irwin, John Cuppy and Mrs. Mary Stoler, Since our last annual meeting therefore

Resolved, That in their decease the Pioneer Historical Society of Ashland Co., has lost estimable members whose lives were ennobled by truth, integrity and virtue.

Resolved , That the sympathy of the members of this association is extended to the families of the deceased lor their great loss in the death of affectionate parents.

Resolved , That these proceedings be published in connection with the minutes of our present meeting in the papers of Ashland Co., and that a record of the same be kept by the Secretary of this association for future reference.

Third Annual Meeting Of The Ashland Co

The Pioneers of Ashland Co., convened at the Court House in Ashland on Monday September 10, 1877 according to previous notice. Maj. G. W. Urie in the chair. The meeting being called to order

Rev. John Robinson was requested to open the same by prayer. The minutes of last meeting being read' and approved the chairman of the obituary committee made the following report which was unanimously adopted.

Whereas, It has pleased the Almighty Giver of life and happiness to remove by death from our midst our worthy friends and pioneers, Dr. Harrison Armstrong, John Bryte, Henry Bishop, Joseph Bishop, Mrs. Margaret Smith, Moses Latta, Daniel Ka liftman, Johnston S. Martin, John S. Nelson, Abner Mercer, John Greenlee, Map Richard P. Fulkerson, John Beighly, Mrs. Edy, Mrs. Baker, James Chamberlain, Isaac Harvuot Sr., Mrs. Nancy Pollock and Mrs. Stout, since our meeting of 1876. therefore

Resolved , That in their decease the Pioneer Historical Society of Ashland Co., has lost estimable members whose lives were emnobled bv truth,

Resolved , That the sympathy of the members of this association is extended to the families of the deceased for their great loss in the death of affectionate parents.

Resolved, That these proceedings be published in connection with the minutes of our present meeting in the papers of Ashland Co., and that a record of the same be kept by the Secretaries of this association for future references.

Rev. John Robinson having recently returned from a visit to Scotland, Ireland, England, France and Switzerland being present was requested to address the association. Dr. G. W. Hill was requested to read an essay on the distribution of the human race over the globe and American Ar chrcology. The Society was invited to inspect a large collection of Indian relics and specimens of minerology which had been placed on exhibition by Dr. S. Diddle, Mr. Ebright, Willie D Ilill and others. In this connection Mr. James Ralston a former citizen of Montgomeiy township but now of Richland Co., exhibited a 7 commission of bis father Robert Ralston as J ustice of the Peace for Montgomery township, bearing date 1816 and signed by Gov. Worthington. He also exhibited a silver watch which had been purchased by his grandfather in 1765 and brought to America in 1806 and had been retained in the family to the present time. Mr. Ralston arrived with his father's family in Montgomery township in April 1814. He is yet vigorous in mind and body.

The Society was also visited by Mr. Martin B. Mason, son -of the late Jacob Mason of Orange township, who now resides in Knox Co., 111., where he has been for over forty years. He is now about 70 years of age, hale and hearty and met many pioneer acquaintances in the Society. The Society then went into an election of officers which resulted as follows: President, Andrew Mason. Vice Presidents : - Orange township, Josiah Thomas ; Montgomery, Daniel Ambrose ; Vermillion, Thomas Bushnell ; Green, Alexander Rice ; Hanover, William Garrett ; Jackson, Col. John Berry ; Perry, Arthur Campbell ; Mohecan, John Metcalf; Lake, George Emerick ; Sullivan, Hamilton Porter ; Troy, Rev. Mr. Parker ; Ruggles, Jacob Hershey; Clear Creek, Thomas Sprott ; Milton, Scott Kelson ; Mifflin, Benjamin Croninger. Corresponding Secretary and historian, Dr. Geo. W. Hill ; Recording Secretaiy, Dr. P. II. Clark ; Treasurer, Isaac Stull ; Executive Committee, Geo.

W. Uri6, Willard Slocum Thomas Bushnell, Prof. J. C. Sample and Dr. A. J. Scott. Obituary Committee, Geo. W. Urie, Geo. W. Hill and L. Jeff. Sprengle.

The members and pioneers present and participating in the meeting were David Weygant, John Metcalf, Win Westheffer, Jacob Marietta, Nancy Marietta, Catharine Riggs, Mary Gould, John Camp, Arthur Campbell, John Swineford, David Ambrose, Richard Beer, John Tanyer, John Springer, Joseph Wasson, Wm. Brown, Befijamin Grosscup, Simon Brindle, Peter Vannoidstrand, Joseph Bechtel, G. Martien, David Boffenmire, L. Jeff. Sprengle, John Thomas, James Alberson, Martin Mason, Martin B. Mason, W. O. Porter, Thomas Bushnell, Andrew Mason, Nancy Sheets, Mr. and Mrs. E. Akins, John Taylor, James Ralston, Thomas Sprott, Benjamin Emmons, Daniel Wert man, Samuel Rowland, Josiah Thomas, James McCray. J. M. Welch and lady, Rev. John Robinson, Rev. W. A. G. Emerson, Joseph Chandler, James Grinold and lady, Dr. S. Riddle, Robert Barnhill, Geo. W. Urie, and others. On motion Mr. M. C. Ebright was unanimously elected an honoraiy member of the society. On motion of Dr. S. Riddle the society adjourned to meet in Ashland, Aug. 22, 1878.

Fourth Annual Meeting

Ashland, Aug. 24, 1878, members of the Pioneer Association of Ashland county met pursuant to the call of the Executive Committee at the Court House in Ashland on Saturday Aug. 24, 1878. Reasons were given as to the cause why the time was changed from the 10th of Sept., the usual time for holding its annual session, was on account of the fact that at that season of the year we invariably had stormy weather which prevented many of those of advanced age from attending also the busy season of the year with farmers on account of seeding etc. On account of the serious illness of his wife, Andrew Mason, the President elect of the association was compelled to be absent, and Vice President Daniel Ambrose was called to the chair, and acted as President of the meeting. Much regret was expressed by the members of the necessary absence of the President, as he is considerably advanced in years and many feared that he might never have the privilege of attending as our President again (which proved to be true.) Sympathy was also expressed for himself and family in their present affliction At the request of Francis Graham the reason for his absence at the last session was given, it being on account of sickness in his family.

On motion of Dr. S. Riddle, it was resolved that an annual assessment of 25 cents for each member be made for the purpose of procuring photographic likeness of the members, and for other necessary expenses. By invitation the Ashland band entered the Court House, playing some of their choicest music and accepted the hospitality of the pioneers. The meeting gave them a unanimous vote of thanks, and were grateful to them for their good music, as well as their kindness. Dr. Samuel Riddle exhibited a nice variety of Archaeological relics belonging to the old Mound Builders, the Red Indian, as well as a considerable variety of minerological specimens. As usual these relics rivited the attention of the entire audience, but none more so than certain implements of a past age used by the old pioneers. Among these was a long handled fire shovel made by Samuel Urie, brother of Major G. W. Urie, which was made in Ashland in the earliest period of the history of Ashland county, also a foot stove long since passed out of date, and nearly so from memory of the younger portion of the audience and received a new name "the -what is it." A Bible was exhibited two hundred and thirty-five years old. Dr. Clark then exhibited some specimens of Archaeological mineral and puritanic relics, and gave a few brief explanations. Among these was a family j relic, a hanging basket of Indian construction | brought from the state of Connecticut and is from J one hundred and fifty to two hundred years old. | Mrs. Dr Clark exhibited a pair of candle snuffers over one hundred years old, the foot stove before mentioned and also a certain garment of very small size, and called in these latter degenerate days "a shirt," bearing the following labelled ; inscription. Carded, spun, wove and put on the infant body of Dr. P. H. Clark by his mother, Mrs. Laura Clark, Aug. 3, 1819. After indulging the appetite by partaking of a picnic dinner, the meeting was called to order. Dr. Clark made some remarks relative to the early history of the country and gave a short sketch of the fearful tornado that swept over the country the line of its devastating track being north of Ashland county. This ac count was published in the Ashland papers a few j years since and was given verbatim as nearly as . J possible of the description as detai/ed by an eye witness. Samuel Jackson presented a paper on 1 minerology which was read before the association.

On motion of Major Urie it was resolved that we now proceed to the election of officers* for the en suing year. Major G. W. Urie was unanimously elected President, and the following gentlemen were elected Vice Presidents : Dr. S. Piddle,

Montgomery township ; John Donley, Orange ; Hamilton Porter, Sullivan ; Henry Summers, Troy ; Jacob Hershey, Ruggles ; Thomas Sprott, Clear Creek ; Hugh Burns, Milton : Thomas Cole Jr., Jackson ; Joseph Chandler, Perry ; Henry Winbigler, Mohecan ; Alien Metcalf, Lake ; Thomas Bushnell, Vermillion ; Daniel Kauffman, Mifflin ; C. C. Coulter, Green ; John W. Bull, Hanover. Dr. P. H. Clark was re-elected Recording Secretary and Dr. Geo. W. Hill re-elected Corresponding Secretary and Historian. The following were elected to serve as Executive Committee. Gen.

Several of our oldest pioneers greeted the Association with the light of their familiar countenances, and entered into the spirit of the occasion with zeal. Father Graham, the oldest name on the list, and known to everybody as well as liked by all for his genial affability, was present as he always will be at every meeting as long as lile and ability endure. Judge Wm. Beer, the "king of pioneers," social \y, and who rarely shows his genial face to his subjects, was present with his relics, - an Indian tomahawk, and a British bayonet, either of which he would use on their original owners, -sharpened first, -were they to appear in the shape of enemies to his country - if not, appearances are deceptive. Mav his shadow never grow less, and may he, and all other members, live long to enjoy our annual meeting. A large number of others were present.

which we do not#mention personally for the want ot room and time. Quite a goodly number of lady Pioneers greeted the Association with their presence and good cheer, especially in the culinary art. The old lessons, though ever so hardly learned in the old days of poverty and trouble, can surely never be forgotten. May they continue to take a | vital interest in our meetings hereafter as now, and induce a larger number to become equally interested. Not the least by any means in the schedule of interesting proceedings was the introduction of old-time music in which many of the old pioneers joined, and which brought down the house with cheers.

Grubb, Alanson Walker, James Kilgore, Harman Alleman, Mrs. Rosa Swineford, John Clark, John Metcalf, Hugh Livingston, Daniel B, Gierhart, James McFadden, Gilbert Martien, and Michael Thomas. The ages of these pioneers ranged from 64 to 85. Some of them located in this region as early as 1817, and have resided within the limits of the county for about 60 years. Signed,

By special request the Ashland County Pioneer Association will hold a meeting at Perrysville, in this county, on Saturday, June 14th, 1879. All

Perrysville, Ashland County, Ohio, June 14th, 1879. - By request of Pioneers of Perrysville, a meeting was called to take place on the 14th inst. A goodly number met at the Academy, and after the meeting was organized, adjourned to meet at the same place at 1 o'clock P. M.

Promptly on time the President, Major G. W. Urie, called the meeting to order and as this was a special meeting the minutes of the last meeting were dispensed with. First remarks by Prof. Sample and others. Mi*. Melzer Tannehill said he had been a resident of the county since 1811. Among the items Mrs. Elizabeth Coulter (Rice) signed the Constitution. Her age is over 82 years. She was the first teacher that ever taught school in the territory now known as Ashland county. Mr. C. C. Coulter was called upon for a speech. He entertained the audience with feelings and appropriate remarks which were appreciated. Dr. Henderson, of Newville, being called, made a few remarks and concluded by extending an invitation to the members of this Association to meet the Richland County Pioneer Association at Mansfield on the 4th of July next. Our late President, Andrew Mason, Esq., gave a description of events that transpired in the early settlement of this county. Remarks were also made by Dr. Samuel Riddle, who also extended an invitation to the members of this Association to meet with others at a celebration at Hemlock Falls, the time of which will be duly noticed. Dr. Geo. W. Hill, Historian, gave a list of deceased pioneers since our last annual meeting as a report of Obituary committee.

The Secretary read an address which by request was subsequently published. There were a nice lot of specimens present, including Indian relics as well as archaeological and historical remains. The following persons signed the Constitution and became members, to wit :

P. S. The Mortality among the Pioneers since our last meeting in August, 1878, has been very great. We have lost many of our most influential citizens, and at the present rate of their demise it a v i 1 1 he but a few years ere they have all bid adieu to things earthly and gone to an unknown and we trust a better and happier world. The deceased pioneers are, Hon. John Dougherty, Allen Metcalf,

John Springer, Robert Noble, Leander Carter, David Ciphers, John Clark, James Wells, James Doty, Mrs. Susan Kennedy, John Fraunfelter, Mrs. Mary Andrews, H ul bert Luther, Jared N. Slonaker, John Bishop, Peter Brubaker, Samuel Cordell, Wm. Westheffer, Mrs. M. Weaver, and John Smalley. The ages of these pioneers ranged from GO to 89 years. Some of them came into the county as early as 1815, and have resided within the limits for about 60 to 65 years. They have gone to rest. We ar§/pained to report the sudden death of Melville C. Ebright, a young gentleman of education and much future promise, who was in consequence of his talents and archaeological acquirements elected an honorary member of our Society in 1875. His friends had formed hopes of a bright future for him, but the fell destroyer came, and he passed from among us. Our sympathies are extended to his triends and relatives for his untimely end. The following aged and feeble pioneers send greeting to 4t heir fellow-pioneers who have assembled at this meeting: Francis Graham and lady, aged respectively 87 and83 3rears ; Mrs. Nancy Sheets, 84; John Swineford, 84; John Harper, 87; John Robison, 88 years. These persons came into the County between 1817 and 1821, and though feeble in bodv all have good intellects.

Pioneer Association Meeting

Hall in Ashland, Aug. 29th, 1879, with Major G. W. Urie in the chair. After the meeting was called to order, the minutes of the last annual meeting were read by the Secretary, as well as the minutes of the special meeting held at the Academy in Perrysville, June 14th, 1879. The audience then listened to an able address by Miss Rosella Rice, of Perrysville. On motion a vote of thanks was given to Miss Rice for her able and interesting address, with the request that a copy be furnished for publication. (See published address.)

Mr. Jacob Gibson exhibited a family Bible, 230 years old. Mr. A. G. Beer also exhibited a Bible, 246 years old. This was one of the famous black letter copies, printed in London in 1633. Mrs. Margaret Hall exhibited a copy of Erskines sermons, preached in 1739 (140 years ago) and which came into the family in 1810. Mrs. Barbara Ann Zigler presented the Society a brass spoon mould of curious construction, which formerly belonged to her great grandfather, who wac born in 1762, and which was presented to him by his father. The contents of a mound which was recently opened a short distance east of town, containing human bones and a vase, which bore evidence of having been over afire, were exhibited. The vase or basin, or urn, - whatever it was intended for, - was sun-dried clay, and although broken, still the shape and form could readily be perceived. It may have been a cooking utensil, but it is more probable that it was made fora very different purpose. From the multitude of relics found in mounds and elsewhere, there can be no doubt but that the old mound builders were worshiping people, and such relics were held by them as sacred. This urn probably may have been used in sacrificial rites, and deposited there side by side with the mutilated victim. On motion it was resolved that the resolution passed by the Society at its last annual meeting relative to a tax for photographic purposes be rescinded. On motion it was resolved that the association publish in pamphlet form the interesting address delivered today by Miss Rosella Rice, together with the proceedings ot the society since its organization, - the list of the pioneers belonging to the society, together with a mortuary list since its organization. Also a list of articles and curiosities donated to the society with the name of donor. On motion, Dr. P. H. Clark and Dr. Geo. W. Hill were appointed a committee to procure the publication of a pamphlet, containing the proceedings of this society, names of the members, names of the dead and other matters for preservation. Dr. Hill then read an essay, after which the society, on motion, proceeded to the election of officers for the ensuing year. Josiah Thomas was unanimously elected President. The following were re-elected : Dr. P. H. Clark, as Recording Secretary, Isaac Stull, Treasurer, and Dr. Geo. W. Hill, a Corresponding Secretary and Historian. The Vice Presidents (one from each township) were re-elected with the exception of Zebulin Metcalf, of Lake, in place of Allen Metcalf, deceased. Dr. Geo. W. Hill, Dr. John Robinson and Major G. W. Urie were re-elected as obituary committee. The meeting was quite large, the hall being nearly filled. The list of members was increased by the addition of sixteen new names, subscribed. The mortuary list during the last year is very large, reaching to twenty- seven deaths. Dr. Geo. W. Hill, from the obituary committe, made the following report: Since the special meeting held in since the last annual meeting in August, 1878, we are called upon to report the following deaths : John Cory, James Clark, William Vermilya, Mrs. Catharine Hildebrand, Mrs. Elizabeth Covert, Mrs. Jane Ann Murray and Cyrus Beach, ranging from 65 to 85 years. They were all among the earliest settlers of their respective townships, and acted well their part during the pioneer time in clearing up and improving the County.

"Special meeting" of the Ashland county Pioneer Society held on the premises of Andrew Mason, esq., in Montgomery township, according to previous arrangements, on Saturday the 27th of Sept. 1879. Meeting was called to order by Dr. S. Riddle one of the Executive Committee also Vice President of the association for Montgomery township. Major G. W. Urie was elected President pro tern. Meeting was opened by singing America, and prayer by Rev. John Mason, son of Andrew Masoh. Mr. John Donley of Orange township said he had been in this country some 62 years, but the circumstances of his coming here were not so distinctly remembered ; but one thing he did know was, when he landed he was there, and his mother was there, but who else was there he did not recollect. He also spoke of the privations and hardships of the family. Remarks were then made by Andrew Mason, who came here in the fall of 1814. He also spoke of the hardships of the family and others, and gave amusing incidents of early pioneer life. Major Urie gave an account of the first death in Montgomery township. He also gave a detailed report of oceurances which are to be published in the Ashland papers, therefore they will not be found in the Secretary's book. Mother Hall then said they had lived one whole week without bread, lived on hominy and sweetened water. Old Mrs. Sheets of Ashland bore similar testimony. Remarks were made by Dr. S. Riddle, who stated that on the 28th day of November next he would he 59 years old. He also gave a detailed account of occurrences of the early days. After this adjournment for dinner came in order and during this adjournment relics were exhibited and two or three big black snakes run up a hollow tree. After dinner remarks were made by Dr. P. H. Clark, Rev. Mr. Buxton and others. On motion of Dr. S. Riddle the special meeting adjourned to meet at Petersburg in Mifflin township in the early part of the next summer. Sixteen new names were enrolled as members of the Society.

A special Pioneer picnic meeting of the Ashland County Pioneer Association was held on the farm of John K. Stamen, in his beautiful maple grove on Thursday the 27th of May 1888, with President Josiah Thomas in the chair.

time song "America" was sung by Major G. W. Urie, E. T. Drayton, John Keller, S. Riddle and others. A large number of ladies present joined in the song.

Reception Speech

Ladies and Gentlemen : - The occasion on which we meet here today is at once most beautiful and sublimely impressive. Kot that it is the celebration of some important event of the past but that it is the bringing together here many ol those whose early days, were the days of the history of our county, and many who have an interest in those pioneers whose sturdy strokes and the power of their brawny muscles cleared from our beautiful hills and valleys, the heavy forests, and drove west- \ ward the red man, but not without the price of blood nowhere on this historic ground chosen for this assemblage. We the people of Mifflin township have occasion to express our sentiments towards you all, and most heartily <^reet you and most cordially welcome you to all the pleasure it is within our power to give you, recommending those noble pioneers with their "wives whose toils and sufferings were wrought so much for us, and whose lives were often in danger. But there is a history before theirs which science has unfurled page after page written not by pencil or pen, but engraved on the rude stone implements or war, or the chase or stamped on the bracelets of copper or bronze that circled the waist of some pre historic beauty, or clasped on the ornaments which fastened the mantle of some renowned, but forgotten chief, all from the mounds and graves which are found along our streams. Of all these we are reminded here today and again in behalf of the people of Mifflin township, welcome you all.

12. Exhibition of relics, both Archaeological and Indian. A very large concourse of people attended the picnic which was rendered pleasant by the extra effort made by the Miffiinites to anticipate every requirement that should be needed either for the pleasure or comfort of the crowd. The Executive Committee have instructed me to publicly express their thanks to Charles F. Engle, post master of Mifflin, for the tender of the use of his ice house for the benefit of the people during the day. For his kindness and forethought the Society expresses their obligations, and it was only necessary to observe the use made of the ice water to convince any one that the crowd fully appreciated it. The following ladies constituted the committee on table, Mrs. D. Kauffman, Mrs. Joseph Doty, Mrs. J. Lemon, Mrs. E. Hart, Mrs. R. Iveiffer,

Mrs. H. Sheets and Mrs. N. Keitley. The tables were spread with all the substantial and luxuries ot the season, and thanks to the Committee, everything went off in "apple pie order." The committee on grounds had erected a large and commodious stand for the speakers and tables were prepared sufficient to accommodate the entire crowd. It is desired that special mention should be made of Dr. I. F. Markel, John Iv. and C. C. Stamen and D. Kauffman as well as others, who contributed so liberally in order to make the day pass agreeably and thereby profitably to all. The people of Mifflin township contributed in labor and good will even more than was necessary to make the day pass agreeably as well as to make it a day long to be remembered as an episode in passing time. Mr. Godfre}r of the Ashland Press Office has received many compliments for the able manner in which he read Dr. G. W. Hill's eloquent and interesting historical address relating to past scenes in Mifflin and adjoining townships. Dr. Hill of the obituary committee made the following report giving the mortuary list with the ages of those who have died since our last regular meeting in Aug. last.

Report

Wilson, Vermillion, 64 ; Samuel Robinson, Green, 70; Jane B. Taylor, Mifflin. 70 ; Elijah Hart, Mifflin, 67 ; INTanc}' Black (widow of James Black), Mifflin, 72; Joshua Campbell, Vermillion, 67; Samuel Culler, Mifflin, 71 ; John Scott, Mifflin, 63 ; Samuel Moore, Mifflin, 75 ; Mary Strickland, Vermillion, 75 ; Jacob Mykrantz, Clear Creek, 71 ; Andrew Eighinger, Vermillion, 67. The address by Hon. B. jBurns was listened to with intense interest.

Among the relics exhibited was a table used on the stand made over fiftv years ago, an article of needle work nearly a hundred years old both belonging to John K. Stamen. A stuffed calf monster was shown by Samuel Moore. This calf had two heads, necks, shoulders, four front legs and two spinal col ums running parallel along the back terminating with two tails. The body was united back of the shoulders and entirely normal behind this point of intersection excepting the double spinal column.

Dr. S. Riddle exhibited a nice collection of crystalized quarts of different characters and some were very pretty specimens. Dr. I. F. Markel had a nice collection of Indian relics, iarge and small stone axes, a bronze mortar made in 1724, also a large variety of Indian arrows. Luther Young exhibtied a variety of Indian relics and Archaeological and mineral specimens. C. C. Stamen also exhibited Indian relics, bones and an old rusty gun barrel all found on the Stamen farm.

All present will be pleased to see the thanks of the audience expressed to the Mifflin band for discoursing sweet music to enliven, and add variety to all.

The 6th Annual Meeting of the Ashland County Pioneer Association was held at the Court House in Ashland, Thursday, August 19th, 1880, pursuant to the call of the Executive Committee, President Josiah Thomas in the chair. After the meeting was called to order, the Pioneers sang an oldtime song, when the meeting was formally opened with prayer, Rev. Dr. Robinson officiating.

The Secretary's report including full reports of the special meetings held; one in Andrew Mason's grove, and the other at Stamen's grove in Mifflin Township. The Secretary called the attention of the meeting to the serious duties and labors made necessary for the chairman of the Obituary Committee, by the neglect of the Vice Presidents of the different Townships to report the deaths in their respective Townships leaving the entire burden on the shoulders of Dr. Hill, the Historian, to perform. He stated that for some time past, the Doctor had been in feeble health and was not able to perform such arduous duties. lie further stated that it would be but a minute's work to gather the few items essential, such as dat of birth, where born, date of his or her first removal here, date of death, and the cause of death when known for the Vice Presidents, which they should report to the chairman of the Obituary Committee as soon as convenient. The Secretary farther stated that he hoped that the Committee to be appointed for the selection of officers for the ensuing year, would be careful to select such men for Vice Presidents as would be certain to attend to such deities.

Gen. Williard Slocum, Dr. Geo. <JU Hill and Major Urie were appointed a committee for the selection of officers for the ensuing year. During the absence of the committee the following persons handed in their photographs for preservation by the Society: Andrew -Mason, Esq., Francis Graham, Esq., Thomas Sprott, Jr., (now deceased,) Dr. S. Riddle, Major G W. Urie, Joseph Doty, Esq., and Jacob Gibson. On motion the Committee were instructed to prepare means for the preservation of these and others that are hereafter to be presented to the Society. Dr. S. Riddle gave notice that at our next annual meeting, a resolution would be offered to amend or rescind Article Ko. 16, of the Constitution, having reference to the payment of an annual fee of fifty cents.

The Committee on Obituaries make the following report of deaths as having occurred since our special meeting at Mifflin, on the 27th of May last. John Robinson, aged 88 ; John Donley, 63; John Keller, 62; Thomas Sprott, Jr., 78, which with the twenty-three in number reported and published, at that time, give us twenty-seven deaths of Pioneers since our last annual meeting.

Dr. S. Riddle, from the Executive Committee reported the following committees of ladies : For the tables, Mrs. General Slocum, chairman ot committee, Mrs. Dr. Clark, Mrs. Dr. Riddle, Mrs. Major Urie, Mrs. Emanuel Swinefond, Mrs. James M. Welch, Mrs. Benj. Grosscup, Mrs. Jacob Frieze, Mrs. Robert McNabb, Mrs. Jane Hershey, Mrs. Eli Coleman, and others that the Secretary had no report of. The Floral Committee consisted of the following: Miss Rene Hill, Miss Abbie Riddle. Miss Lida Slocum, Miss Jennie Fulkerson, Miss Kate Kenny. Committee in charge of baskets : Benj. Huffman, W m. Brown, and Geo. W. Urie.

After the election of officers t he audience adjourned for dinner After the repast the meeting assembled in the Court room, when the Secretary read the following telegram :

Hayesville, O. .Aug. 19, 1880

I have an engagement to preach in Pittsburgh next Sabbath and this will prevent my attending the Pioneer Society today7. I was not aware that I had been chosen an honorary member; I therefore beg pardon for not attending the meetings. I have always, however, been interested in their proceedings and regret very7 much that I cannot have the pleasure of being with you on this occasion. Yours truly,

Rev. Dr. Robinson was called upon for remarks, to which he responded in an eloquent and impressive address, which was listened to with intense interest by7 the Pioneers present. Without attempting to give any thing but a few salient points in his remarks, I will commence with his first remark: That he saw many gray7 heads in the audience that reminded him of the proverb, ''that the hoary head is a crown of glory if* it be found in the way of righteousness." Have we lived such lives that our gray hairs are to us a crown of righteousness ?'' In the latter years there is not among the young that respect and reverence for gray hairs and old age, as in former years. How is it with us? Have we been leaving foot-prints on the sands of time, such as we should leave in the cause of truth and light ? Have our lives been such that our examples have been profitable toourselves and to others, especially the young? We have but little time left us to act. More than tvventy7- five of our number have passed away7 since our last annual meeting. To many7 of us this is to be a farewell meeting. We may well ask ourselves: When shall we all meet again? In general, pioneers of a new country were such as fled from their locations at the approach of schools, churches, and other elements of a true civilization, and emigrated further on. But the pioneers of this country were generally of-a different class, who appreciated the requirements necessary to produce a condition of society, such as have become developed from the foundations laid by them, and it is to them, to a certain extent, that we owe the blessings and the privileges that are bearing such fruit in the present generation.

The Dr. excited the most intense interest trom the beginning to the end of his remarks. Rev. Thomas Beer, upon being called for, said he thought it would have been better for the meeting to have adjourned after having listened to such appropriate and feeling remarks as had been made. He further stated that he had been one among the earliest of the pioneers of this part of the County. In fact, he had been a pioneer twice. The first arrival was in October, 1821, when he came with his brother Richard and a cousin, John Aten, who died in 1861. We built a log cabin in two days, cutting the logs and carrying them by hand, having neither horse or ox to assist us. We commenced clearing the land. Ashland was then known as Uniontown and contained but very few houses. Amongst the number were three still-houses, which were considered a necessity in those days. In January, 1822, he returned to the neighborhood of Pittsburgh and entered into the study and preparation for the ministry. In 1830 he again came into the country and settled in what is now the North-eastern portion of Ashland County, where he engaged in the service of the church, haying charge of several congregations. He subsequently removed on his farm in this (Montgomery) Tp., where he remained uirtil the death of his wife, Margaret, who died March 25th, 1880, and in May removed with his family to Ashland. It will be 50 years in a few week since his second pioneer life began. At the conclusion of his remarks the following resolution was adopted :

Resolved , That it be a part of the duty of the Executive Committee to procure speakers to address our pioneer meetings. On motion it was resolved that the pioneer society of Ashland County, feel under many obligations to the officers about the Court House for their liberality in opening the Court House and different offices for the accommodation of the society, and for their kind assistance. The Secretary has been especially asked to thank Mrs. Isaac Gates for her kindness in discommoding herself for the benefit of the society.

The tables were well supplied with substantiate as well as dainties, and the lady who supplied that luscious pone, a true relic of pioneer days, Reserves to live long and be abundantly blessed, and be induced to make one for each meeting as long as a single pioneer is left. The table boquets were nicely arranged for which the floral committee will accept thanks. One hundred and fifty participated in doing justice to a good dinner. Previous to adjournment the audience sang to the tune of Old Hundred from "All that dwell below the skies." On motion the meeting adjourned to meet at the call of the Executive Committee.

Announcement

The Seventh Annual Meeting of the Ashland County Pioneer and Historical Society will meet at the Court House in Ashland on Thursday, Aug. ISth, 1881. Col. Barnabus Burris of Mansfield will deliver the annual address. Other speakers will also be present. There will also be some demonstrations on the big and little wheels of olden time, by the ladies. It will no doubt be in- teresting to some of the young people to see an old lady spinning, rocking the cradle with a baby in it and smoking her pipe all at the same time. Let there be a general turn outof all the members of the Society, and as many more as feel disposed to come. Come everybody with well filled baskets of good things to eat, such as bacon and beans, johnny-cake and pone with some venison and bear meat if possible, and let us have one of the grandest old times the society has ever had. Also those who have the old style notes bring your books and let us have some old time music. And those who have relics - Indian or otherwise or rare specimens of any kind - bring them along for exhibition. The meeting to be organized at 9 o'clock A. M.

Will all the papers in the county please copy, as a cordial invitation is extended to the editorial staff of the county to participate in the exercises of the day, especially at the table.

Seventh Annual Meeting Of The Ashland County Pioneer Historical Society

Pursuant to a call of the Executive Committee the Ashland County Pioneer Association convened at the Court House in Ashland, O., Aug. 18th, 1881. The meeting was called to order by Hugh Burns, Esq., President of the Society. The meeting was opened by singing "Old America," first by note and then the words belonging to the tune. After this the meeting was formerly opened with prayer, Rev. Dr. Robinson officiating.

The Secretary read his annual report including the full proceedings of the last annual meeting, which on motion was adopted. The Secretary again called the attention of the audiqnce to the meagre reports of the Vice Presidents of the different townships whose duty it is to obtain the names of deceased pioneers, the dates of births, of deaths, and their removal into the county, ail of which would be attended by very little trouble on their part. It is utterly impossible for the obituary committee to obtain anything like a cor.

rect list of the deceased pioneers who a« going down to their graves unnoticed and unknown, as far as any historical record is concerned. It is to be hoped hereafter, the Vice Presidents will see to it that a proper statement is made to the obituary committee, so that every death may be placed on the records of this Society. The Secretary further stated that but very few of the townships had made any report at all, and our records at the best must be very imperfect.

Rev. ' Dr. Robinson from the committee on photographs made some remarks on the subject and urged immediate action on the part of members in procuring photographs of themselves and their wives, and depositing them with the committee for preservation as property of the Society. He further stated that but nine had thus far responded to the request made by the Society for them.

Dr. S. Riddle called up his motion to rescind Art. 16 of the Constitution, notice of which was given at the last annual meeting, Aug. 19, 1880. The ayes and nays being called the motion prevailed and the article was declared rescinded. This article required the payment of annual dues of fifty cents. Dr. P. II. Clark offered the following preamble and resolutions which were unanimously adopted by the Society7.

Preamble

The Ashland County Pioneer Association being desirous of expressing their sentiments of approval and acknowledgment for the many services rendered this Society by Geo. W. Hill M. D., in collecting and collating the; history of the pioneers of this county, and in acting as the chairman of the obituary committee, and as he is now in feeble health and has been for some time. Therefore be it

Resolved , That this action of the pioneers be spread upon the minutes of this Society. The meeting adjourned to the Court House yard where a speaker's stand and seats had been previously prepared under the shade of the trees.

The audience being seated and order restored, the President introduced Col. B. Burns of Mansfield, who entertained them spell-bound with a masterly address. The speaker gave a succinctaccount of the poverty and trials of the early settlers, their habits and customs, their toils and amusements, and concluded by summing up their J great achievements. He said 61 years ago last J une, a hatless, shoeless, little boy passed up the streets of Ashland (then Uniontown) with his father and family and went on to the place since known as the Kelly farm. We were then an unbroken family of seven, but now all the links are broken save your president, the oldest, and myself, the youngest of the family.* We came on to the Kelly place in 1820 and moved on to the Hazlett farm inT821. After several removels finally settled on the place known as theOBurns farm, which my father occupied until he died.

Among the earliest history of events, pioneers were spoken of and the very first was Cain, who pioneered into the land of Kod, and found a wife. Koah was the pioneer ship builder. Abraham was a pioneer, goingout not knowing whither he went. Jacob was also a pioneer. He came to a well, met his cousin Kachel, kissed her, and lifted up his voice and wept. John the Baptist preceding the Messiah was a pioneer in the wilderness. Christopher Columbus conceived the idea that there was a western continent and he became a pioneer. Washington was a pioneer. Benj. Franklin was also a pioneer in drawing lightning from the clouds. Thomas Paine was a pioneer. Robert Fulton, the man who first applied the power of steam as a propelling power to vessels, was a pioneer. Morse was a pioneer in utilizing electricity and giving to it the capacity of speech. The speaker here gave an anecdote, to wit, when Morse visited Washington to obtain an appropriation to assist in putting up the wire for his telegraph he consulted John Spencer, then one of the members of Tyler's cabinet, who inquired how much it would cost the government to send a "package" by telegraph to w York? Like the Irishman who kissed the telegraph pole because he Wanted to send a kiss to his wife.

The speaker said that the village of Ashland was laid out in 1815, and then called Uniontown, but was changed to Ashland at the request of Francis Graham, who was obliged to have another name for the Post Office. He then gave a tribute to the memory of father Graham who has recently died.

The aboveis but a faint outline of the address which was listened to with marked attention. On the conclusion of the address the meeting adjourned for dinner. Long tables were set with delicacies as well as substantials. Among the remembrances of the past was the golden johnny-cake, the luscious pone and the too well remembered hoe cakes made of corn meal, salt and water, and baked on a board. Tea and coffee sweetened with maple sugar was most certainly a reminder of the old days. After being bountifully supplied with a good dinner by the active committee of ladies the audience re-assembled in the court room to finish the business of the day. On motion it was r< solved that a committee of three be appointed b; the chair to select officers for the ensuing year,; whereupon the chair appointed Major Geo. - Wl Urie, Josiah Thomas and James Welch as sucl committee. The committee reported the followinj names for officers which on motion was unanimous* ly adopted :

Rev. Mr. Chapman, at present residing at Wes' Salem, was called on for a speech. He stated thaj at seven years of age he came with his grant father to Clear Creek, in 1825, and located in i place about a mile a little to the South-east o Savannah and remained there until 1830. In tin fall and winter of 1826 food was very scarce. W< had to make graters and grate corn until itbecanu too hard, when we had to, pound it in kettles. Wi obtained our supply of meats from the s wails o: the Black River, where hogs were running wild] and game plenty. Went to school in a little log cabin which was situated a little Korth of Savanl nal). Money in those days was almost impossible to be obtained, and our only resource to obtain it was by digging Ginseng and the sale of whiskey made from our corn. If we obtained money sufficient to pay taxes and absolute expenses we were happy.

The above is hardly an outline of his interesting remarks, which were listened to with the deepest attention. After the conclusion of his remarks, spinning wheels and a cradle were brought in and Mrs. Martin Mason, of Ashland, presided with an old-time motherly dignity, as she worked the treadle of the spinning wheel with one foot, and rocked the cradle with the other. The cradle contained a bonalide bab}7 (borrowed for the occasion) who seemed highly delighted with his part of the program me.

Dr. S. Riddle exhibited a goodly variety of family relics - an old fashioned fire shovel, a spoon mould, old steel yards, a Bible 165 years old, woolen goods, brought by Mrs Stentz, iron ore of 95 per cent, from Lake Superior, and Indian relic by Wm. Gibson. Dr. Riddle had also a variety of Indian relics and mineral specimens on exhibition. Mr. Thomas Bushnell had some very valuable mineral and other specimens on hand for exhibition,

Prof. Rupert's singing class of girls entertained the audience in the Court House grove, after the adjournment from the Court room. There was also an exhibition of old time singing which gave universal satisfaction. The meeting was on motion adjourned subject to the call of the Executive Committee. * chanan presented to the society a last year's apple, perfectly sound, without a spot or blemish, to b given to the oldest pioneer present. On canvass ing the crowd, it was found that Mr. Richard Beei| was the oldest, and the apple passed into his pos session. On receiving it, our uncle Dick grinned! a la Davy Crocket, put the apple into his pocke and walked oft, forgetting to limp or use his caneS I learn that the gift is carefully laid up in gratefu| remembrance of the fair donor.

A very large number were present ; the larges that have ever attended our annual meetings. And although, perhaps, there may have been some unj pleasant incidents, no more occurred than alway follow pic nic dinners in large crowds. It has beer suggested that no more general tables be set here after, but rather that they be true basket pic-nics]

The Obituary report being imperfect will be re'i vised and published as soon as it can be donei There have been nearly 40 deaths since last anna al meeting.

Second Special Meeting

The second special meeting of the Pioneers oj Mifflin township, was held on Saturday, Sept. 10th 1881, in Sebastian Culler's grove (the old Zimmei place) not far from the spot where the Rufther*- Zimmer tragedy took place on Sept. 10, 1*812] The day was beautiful and one long to be remem bered on account of the circumstances connected! with the location.

3. A paper was read by Dr. S. Kiddle, giving a sketch of one of the first pioneers of Ohio, who was killed by the Indians while crossing the Muskingum river near Zanesville, also a poem and a song of forty years ago.

4. Short speeches. First Dr. Yocum of Hayesville, was introduced who made a few remarks. Second a very appropriate and well timed speech by W. W. Armstrong of Hayesville. Third speech by R. P. Wallace a resident of Green township, who stated that he lived not more than five rods from the place where he was born.

5. The object and intention of the meeting was then fully set forth by Dr. S. Kiddle in a few brief remarks which were listened to with marked attention.

6. Adjourned for dinner which was a very nice affair. The ladies having selected a beautiful green spot on the banks of the Zimmer's run. Spread their table cloths, arranged their eatables and invited all to partake, and all seemed to be well satisfied. The ladies certainly deserve great credit for the interest manifested on the occasion.

7. Dinner over, the meeting was again called to order by the President, Kauffman. A motion was then made by Dr. S. Kiddle to erect a monument to the graves of those pioneer martyrs, buried in Mifflin township. The motion was seconded and remarks made by Messrs. B. Croninger, L. Lambright, W. Giffin, D, Kauffman, K. P. Wallace, W. W. Armstrong and Dr. S. Riddle. The motion being put, carried unanimously in favor of the erection of two monuments one at the Zimmer place and one at the Copus Hill and seconded that the following gentleman act as a committee to solicit funds for that purpose, in Mifflin township: Daniel Kauffman, Samuel

Culler, Benjamin Croninger, John Charles and Joseph Doty, also W. O. Porter and W. W Armstrong to act for Vermillion township ; R. P. Wallace and Warring Wolf for Green township, with a resolution to appoint like committees in all of the townships in the county, and S. Piddle to; superintend the canvass both in Ashland and Rich-] land counties, all of which passed unanimously. The result was that for various reasons Samuell Culler, John Charles, Joseph Doty, W. O. Porterj R. P. Wallace, Warring Wolf et al, declined to act j The committee then consisted of D. Kauffman, Benjamin Croninger and Solomon Vail for Mifflin] Tp. ; Major G. W. Urie and S. Riddle for Montgomery Tp., S. Riddle taking the general over-1 sight of the canvass both in Ashland and Richland] Countie* as agreed upon.

9. On motion adjourned to meet on the copus] hill the 15th day of September, 1882. Taking it] all in all the meeting, although not as largely at-] tended as some, was a grand success, and one ol the most quiet and pleasant ones that we ever had.| After adjournment quite a number went over t< see the place where the Ruffner and the Zimmen were buried.

Moiiecaxyille Meeting

A special meeting of the Pioneers of Mohecan] and Lake township, took place at the time am place designated, June 8, 1882. The da}r was! beautiful and pleasant and many pleasant faceaj both old and young were there, and had it nol been for the raising of a large barn in the neighbor-^ hood the attendence would have been much larger, but all those who were there enjoyed themselves splendidly and it will be to many a day long to be remembered.

4. Music by the choir, consisting of J. C. Thompson, J. Maurer. Rosella Brubaker, Alice King, Belle Maurer, organist, Mattie Raney, E. Ho wen, led by Martin Luther Smith of McKay. Piece,* Blessed be the name of the Lord.

7. Dinner over, then came the enrollment of pioneers, all of whom were seated on the platform as follows : Rev. J. Exeeli, 59 years ; J. E. Swain, 78 ; Elijah Bunyan, 53 ; Wm. Jones, 77 ; Wm. Brock, G1 ; Peter Long, 75 ; Henry Trease, 73 ; S. Riddle, 61 ; Mary Trease 70 ; Margaret Steinbaugh, 68 ; John Cams, 70 ; Elizabeth Horn, 71 ; Wm. Spittler, 73; Elizabeth Smith, 72; Michael Otto, 64; Elizabeth Brubaker, 80; David Dillier, 69; Le\vis Chesrown, 71 ; Samuel Black, 77 ; Z. T. Paulins, 59.

Ty Pioneer Historical Society

Pursuant to a call ot the Executive Committee the Ashland County Pioneer Association convened at the Court House in Ashland, Ohio, August 19th, 1882. The meeting was called to order by Hugh Burns, Esq., president of the Society. After singing an old-ffme piece, the meeting was formally opened by prayer, Rev. Mr. Baldwin officiating. The report of the Secretary was then made, giving an account of the proceedings of the last annual meeting, as well as the pic-nic meetings held since our last report The report on motion was adopted. The committee on photographs being absent no report was made. Report of Obituary committee was rendered by Dr. Riddle, Historical Secretary, by townships, giving a full report of deaths in the County as far as known. The number of deaths occurring during the past year, including those not reported at the last meeting is 54. The obituary report will be published in a future number of the paper, and as soon as perfected, under the auspices of the committee.

On motion of Dr. Clark the thanks of the Society was tendered Dr. S. Riddle for his laborious effort in obtaining the names of those who have died during the year. Mr. Thomas Bushnell exhibited his beautiful collection of historical, mineral and geological specimens, including ferns, calumets, etc., from the geological age as well as specimens of coral, sea ferns belonging to South sea waters of the present age. He also exhibited a powder horn 124 years old, and which had been in his family over one hundred years. Also an Indian or Mound builder's relic, supposed to have been dug out of a well, at the depth of 20 or more feet. Dr. Riddle also exhibited a variety of relics, minerals,

&c. Mrs. Hannah Spiece, of Ashland, exhibited a likeness of her grand-father, who was a soldier in the Revolution, taken when he was 107 years old ; also a silk handkerchief given to her by her grandmother in April, 1857, who had had it 88 years before giving it to her grand-daughter ; also a cape made by her grand-mother without glasses, when she was 107 years old ; also a case knife given by her grand- mother when she was 107 years old, that belonged to her grand-mother, said to be over two hundred years old. Mrs. Spiece also exhibited a pair of hand towels, spun by herself and wove by her sister 42 years ago ; also a plate bought by her mother 60 years ago. Rev. Mr. Roseberrv being called upon, entertained the audience by some eloquent and appropriate remarks, referring to the past as well as present. Dr. Riddle then notified the audience that he had in his possession three apples of last year's growth, without spot or blemish, a present from Mr. John Rumbaugh, which were to be given to the three oldest persons present. On canvassing the crowd it was found that Philip Kosht, aged 86, Jacob Gibson, 86 and Samuel Rowland, 80, were the oldest persons, and they were the recipients of the luscious fruit.

On motion it was resolved that we now proceed to the election of officers for the ensuing year, which motion was declared passed and the following persons were unanimously elected : For President, Daniel Kauffman, of Mifflin ; Vice Presidents, Benjamin Croninger, Mifflin Township; Henry O'Hara, Green; John Freshwater, Hanover; John J. Wolfe, Lake ; John J. Winbigler, Mohecan ; Thomas Bushnell, Vermillion; John P. Smalley, Perry ; Thomas Cole, Jr , Jackson ; Geo. C. McConnell, Jr., Sullivan; John Smith, Troy; George Curry, Ruggles; Arius Rumfield, Clear

Creek; Scott Nelson, Milton; James Welch, Orange ; David Carter, Montgomery. Dr. Clark was re-elected Recording Secretary, and Dr. Samuel Riddle permanent Secretary and Historian, Major Urie and Rev. Dr. Robinson were re-elected as obituary committee, and Dr. Robinson was continued on photograph committee. The following were elected as Financial or Executive Committee: Daniel Shopbell, Wm. Brown, Matthias Boftenmyer, Williard Slocum and S. Riddle.

On motion the meeting adjourned subject to the call of the Executive Committee. The meeting was not as large as last year, as indeed could not have been expected, considering the lan>e number of deceased pioneers in the last year. Yet it was well attended and we trust it was a profitable meeting to all. The labor on the part of the obituary committee in order to obtain any thing like a lull and correct report is simply immense, and the Secretarv would again urge the Vice Presidents of the different townships to still use more diligence in procuring the necessary statistics of those pioneers who decease during the coming year.

Necrology Report Of 1882

Names of the pioneers of Ashland County who have died since our last annual meeting Aug. 18, 1881, also a few others who had not been reported the previour year.

Mifflin Township - Frederick Dale, born in Petersburg, Sept. 4, 1827, died Aug. 8, 1881, aged 53 years, 11 months and 4 days. Christian King, born in Germany, and died Feb. 8, 1882, aged 82 years, 3 months and 8 days.

Mohecan Township. - Mary M. Winbigler was born at Harpers Ferry, Virginia, June 20, 1793, came to Ashland County, then Wayne, in 1819 and died Feb. 17, 1882, aged 88 years, 7 months and 26 days. Margaret Butdorff, (whose maiden name was Ream) cfied June 28, 1882, aged 55 years, 9 months and 13 days

Green Township - Benjamin Castor was born in Beaver County, Pa., Sept. 16, 1809 and came to Ashland County in 1829 and died Dec. 14, 1881, aged 73 years Joseph Gladden, born in Richland County, came into Ashland County in 1860 and died in 1881, aged 65 years. George Ivrouse, born in Montgomery County, Pa., Aug. 1, 1817, came to Ohio in 1838 and died Dec. 8, 1881, aged 64 years. Fanny Littell Miller, born in Beaver County, Pa., Oct. 16,1808, came to Richland County in 1816 and died Oct 26, 1881, aged 73 years and 10 days. Michael Shambaugh, born in Mifflin township Nov. 29, 1818 and died Oct. 24, 1881, aged 62 years, 10 months and 25 days. John Vanscoyac, born Oct. 28, 1824, in Green township and died Jan. 15, 1882, aged 58 years. Catharine Dilgard, born in Franklin Count}7, Pa., came to Ohio in 1844 and died Jan. 1882, aged 73 years. Mary White, a resident of this County 60 years, died Jan. 30. 1882, aged 72 years. Mr. Derry, born in Virginia, came into this County in 1851 and died March 1, 1882, aged 64 years. Rev. Frank Eddy, born in Wayne County, Ohio, Dec. 5, 1832, came into Ashland County in 1868 and died March 26, 1882, aged 49 years, 3 months and 21 days. John Wert, born in Cumberland county, Pa., came to Ohio In 1827 and died April 8, 1882, aged 95 years. John Grove, born in Maryland,

May 31, 1827, came to Ashland County in 1864 and died April 10, 1882, aged 54 years and 10 months. Mrs. Anna Cromer, born in Berkley county, Virginia, Nov. 3, 1800 and died May 24, 1882, aged 81 years. 6 months and 24 days. Michael Toney, born in Pennsylvania, came to Ashland County in 1834 and died in J une 1882, age not given. Cyrus Rowland, born in Green township, Ashland County and died in 1881, age not given.

Hanover Township. - Reuben Freshwater was born in Hancock County, Virginia, Aug. 26, 1803, came to Coshocton County, Ohio, in 1816 and to Loudonville in 1838 and died Dec. 17, 1881, aged 78 jears, 4 months and 9 days. Peter Vanhorn, came to Loudonville 67 years ago, died Jan. 28, 1882, aged 70 years, 2 months and 21 days. Joseph Beverly Sanborn, born in Chichester, New Hampshire. March 6, 1810, came to Loudonville with his wife and two little children the fall of 1837 and died March 8, 1882, aged 72 years and 2 days.

96 years. Rosa McNall, (whose maiden name was Douney) was born in Ireland in 1797 and came to Montgomery township, Ashland County in 1815 and died Oct. 9, 1881, aged 84 years, 5 months. George Buchanan was born in Washington county, Pa., in 1800, came to Ashland County in 1831 and died Thursday Aug. 10, 1882, aged 82 years.

Perry Township. - John Greenlun, born in Harrison County, Ohio, in 1814, died Aug. 18, 1881, aged over 68 years, had resided in the county more than 41 years. Elizabeth Allison, born in ed in Perry township over 50 years. Mrs. Elizabeth Lucas, born in Westmoreland County, Pa., in 1807, died May 25, 1882. aged over 75 years, had resided in the county over 49 years. Malachia Stacher, born in Northumberland County, Pa., 1795 and died April 20, 1882, aged 87 years, resided in Ashland County over 48 years. Mrs. Mary J. Campbell, born in Green County, Pa., in 181(5 and died May 25, 1882^ aged 66 years. Henry Shissler was born in Washington County, Pa., in 1818. came to Ashland County when four years of age and died June 25, 1882, aged 64 years. Adam Mish died in 1881, aged 71 years.

Jackson Township. - Frederick Plice, born in Wurtenberg, Germany, emigrated first to] Berks County Pa., then to Jackson township, Ashland County and died Oct. 18, 1881, aged 87 years and 1 day,

Orange Township. - Samuel Leidigh was born in Lebanon County. Pa., February 17th, 1801, came to Orange Township, Ashland County, in 1840, and died April 1st, 1881, aged 80 years, 1 month and 14 days. Mary Murray, whose maiden name was Chilcoat, was born in Pennsylvania, came to Orange Township in 1812 when 12 years of age, and died Sept. 6th, 1881, aged 80 years. W m. Fast was born in Green County, Pa., March 26th3 1795, came with his parents to Richland County, Orange tp., now Ashland County, in 1815. Remained on the same farm until his death, which took place May 31st, 1882. Aged 87 years, 2 months and 7 days. John Ramsey was born near Baltimore, Md., in February, 1789, came into Wayne County. Ohio in 1817, and to Ashland County about the year 1820, and died Aug. 7th, 1882, in his 94th year.

maiden name was Daniels, was bom in Williamstown, Mass., Jan. 10th 1799. Came to Ashland County, then Huron, and settled in Kuggles Township in 183G and died in March, 1882, aged 83 years.

Milton Township. - Margaret Nelson, whose maiden name was Williams, born in Westmoreland County, Pa., Feb. 25th, 1821, came to Mifflin Township, Ashland Co., in 1823, remained till 1866, when she removed to DeKalb Co., Ind., where she died April 12, 1882, aged 61 years, 1 month and 15 days.

Montgomery Township. - Hannah Grubb, whose maiden name was Robinson, was born in Miami County, Pa., March 20th, 1802, came to Ashland, then Uniontown, in 1823, and died Dec. 26th,

1881, aged 79 years, 9 months and 6 days. Caroline M. A. Sprangle, whose maiden name was Ruth, born in Georgetown, D. C., June20th, 1806, came to Ashland Aug. 2nd, 1835, and died March 14th, 1882, aged 75 years, 8 months and 20 days. Josiah Closson, born in Jefferson County, Ohio, Dec. 20th, 1820, came to Montgomery Township when a boy, and died in Ashland March 28, 1881, aged 61 years, 3 months, and 8 days. George E. Crowell, born in Columbiana County, Ohio, in 1811, came to Ashland in 1852, and died March,

1882, aged 71 years, 1 month and 3 days. Henry Smith, born in Pennsylvania, cam: to Ashland County in 1834 and died January 14th, 1882, aged 68 years, 10 months and 7 days. Judge Daniel W. Whitmore, born in Leicester, Livingston County. New York, March 3rd, 1823, came to Ashland ( ounty in 1817, and died July 3rd, 1881, aged 58 years. Fanny E. Pratt, born in West Townsend, Windham County, Vermont,

Pioneer Historical Society.'

17th, 1882, aged 52 years. Benjamin Kauffman was born in clear Creek Township, Ashland County, May 12th, 1817, and died in Ashland, July 19th, 1882, aged 65 years, 2 months, and 7 days, Mrs. Jane Bussell, wife of Samuel Bussell, once of Ashland, died in Oregon in 1881. Aged 72 3'ears, 5 months and 9 days. Bichard Beer, born in Korth Hampton County, Pa., Kov. 21st, 1796, came to Ashland County in October, 1821, and died in Ashland, June 24th, 1882, aged nearly 86 years Judge T. J. Kenny, born in Buffalo, *New York, l>ec. 23rd, 1830, came to Ashland County in Feb., 1850, and stopped with J. M. Gorham in Sullivan. Taught a half term of school, vacancy, near Sullivan, then returned to Mi. Gorham's, doing chores about the hotel during the summer, and in October of that year came to Ashland and commenced reading law with Smith and Allison. Bemained here until the time of his death which took place April 20th, 1882. Aged 52 years and 4 months.

Copus And Ruff Nee Monuments

The unveiling of the Copus- Ruff ner monuments will take place on Friday Sept. 15, 1882. Will meet first in the morning at the Copus hill in Mifflin township. Ashland county, O. The meeting will be organized precisely at 10 o'clock A. M., at which place there will he appropriate speeches by R. M. Campbell, Esq., of Ashland, and others. In the afternoon will meet at the Zimmer place. Speaking there by Henry C. Hedges, Esq., of Mausfield, O., Dr. P. II. Clark of Ashland, et al. As there will be no hotel accommodations there it will be necessary that everybody bring their baskets well-filled with good things to eat. Come everybody.

At a meeting of the citizens and pioneers of Ashland and Richland Counties, held at Copus Hill, in Mifflin Township, Ashland County, Ohio, Sept. 15th, 1882, the President of Ashland County Pioneer Association, Daniel Kauffman, called the meeting to order. The programme of the first part of the meeting was carried out by the local committee of Mifflin Township and the exercises were as follows : 1st. Music by the Mount Zion \

Band of Mifflin. 2nd. Opening prayer by the Rev. J. A. Hall. 3rd. Music by the Band - "Our country 'tis of thee." 4th. Introductory and address of welcome by Rev. J. A. Hall. The further exercises of the day were handed over to the Pioneer Association and conducted by them. Rev. - P. R. Roseberry responded to a call, and for a few moments entertained the audience with instructive, entertaining and feeling remarks. Following his \ remarks the Huff brother's band, of Mohecanville, favored the audience with one of their choicest se- i lections.

By request of the President, Dr. S. Riddle an- | non need the program of the day. While delaying for the orator of the forenoon, remark's were made by Dr. Busbnell, of Mansfield, and Andrew Mason, of Ashland. M. II. Gilkison, Esq., of Mansfield was introduced on the stand as being the first male child born in Mansfield, born on ground hog day, the 2nd of February, 1811. This was followed by music by the Mount Zion Band. The President having stated the object of the meeting as held for the purpose of unveiling the monuments erected to^commemorate those who were killed by the Indians at Copus Hill and the one erected on the farm of Michael Culler, called the Ruffner,

R. M. Campbell, Esq., was then introduced to the audience and held them spell- bound with one of his inimitable addresses. (See published address.) Following this was music by the Huff brother's band. Mrs. Sarah Vail, daughter of James Copus, and who was present at the time her father and three soldiers were killed, was introduced to the audience. She is now 83 years old. Mrs. Baughman, daughter of Capt. Cun-f ningham, who assisted in burying the dead at' Co-| pus Hill, was present and introduced to the audi-| ence. Adjourned for dinner.

Afternoon exercises were opened with music by the Mount Zion Band. Program was then announced for the afternoon by Dr. S. Riddle. A| vote ot thanks tendered to the sneakers was unan-| imously given ; also a vote of thanks was given to | the bands present and to the makers of the monuments. The following resolution was offered by A. J. Baughman, of Mansfield, and unanimoushr adopted :

Resolved , That a vote of thanks be tendered on the part of the citizens of Ashland and Richland Counties, to Dr. Riddle, who first offered the resolution to erect these monuments ; also to Daniel Kauffman, Benjamin Croninger. Solomon Vail and Major G. W. Urie who have taken such an ac tive part in carrying out this noble enterprise. % II. C. Hedges, Esq., was th n introduced to the audience and delivered a masterly address. (See published address.) At the close of his address the Huff brothers' band played a dirge. Following this Dr. P. H. Clark of Ashland, delivered a short address. (See published address). Music by the Mt. Zion band. Meeting then adjourned sine die%

The day was pleasant and everything passed as pleasantly as the managers could have desired. Of the members present it is impossible to form any exact estimate. It is sufficient to state that the meeting was very large and the woods were full of them. All appeared satisfied and glad at this manifestation of justice to our dead heroes, though tardy and although seventy years have passed since they were massacred.

P. S. Harn says* in Pioneer life of Philip Seymour, (Zimmer) page 423, At the close of Dr. Clark's address, a procession of vehicles to the number of about twelve hundred was formed, and passed by the Copus monument as it was unveiled. The multitude then proceeded to the Ruffner monument, when it was also unveiled, and the ceremonies of the day thus ended.

Address By R. M. Campbell

I greet with pleasure this concourse of people, and extend congratulation to the old and young assembled here, on the historic hill today. We rejoice to behold this bright, auspicious morn, so full of interesting associations and memorable reminiscences. Though we meet to recall sad scenes and pay tribute to murdered valor, yet let us be thankful that we live in such an age as this, and surrounded by such cheering circumstances as meet us on every hand, full of pleasant joy and spanning our whole heavens with enchanting prospects for the future of our native land. We commemorate today, a sorrowful event, yet full of comment for the present generation. Since Copus and companions fell, a full age of man God's allotment, seventy years have passed away, seventy years. These hills are here as then, the azure sky above us, but almost every foot that then pressed the Virgin soil has forever ceased to patter. But blooming beauty, prosperity and happiness fill this vallej^, while choral songs of the descendents of hardy, brave, and enterprising pioneers mingle at the morning and evening sacrifice. It is a spontaneous, as well as a noble faculty of our being to connect our thoughts, our feelings, our sympathies and even our happiness with what is distant in place and time. The past, the present and the future, are so intimately blended that we can not, if we would, completely separate them, one from the other. We are not creatures of isolation and exclusiveness, so as to live in the present only. We linger in historic fields with alternate tears and smiles, and gladden at the prospect of futurity being blessed bv the good that we have done.

W e sometimes wonder if succeeding generations ] will develop new wonders in science, education and art, such as we have realized. We cast the horoscope of the future in vain to discover great events and occurrences, that will impress themselves on the minds of the then living, as the past has furnished no land marks for our guidance, and raised monuments for our adoration. The battlefields of the dead past have been productive of many of the blessings and enjoyments we possess today, but none are more sacred than the fields of individual prowess and daring, where the advance guard in civilization's grand army nobly fought and gloriously fell. Nearly three hundred years ago a Pilgrim bark, sped across the trackless Atlantic, freighted with a cargo of brave and independent men and women, who had heard of a land where God might be worshiped free from govermcntai restrictions and regulations. They planted* their feet on Plymouth Rock amid December's snows, where they could exercise unlimited freedom of conscience. That goodly land was intended by nature's God for something better than howling beasts and savage men. There "amid the storm they sang, and the stars heard and the sea," and from that period to this, mankind have done honor to the Pilgrim fathers, and yearly bring their offerings to strew upon the rock where the Mayflower landed her devoted band. While justice may be tardy, and our tributes to the heroes of noble deeds long deferred, yet they come at last.

Seventy years have passed since showers of missels were hurled against an humble cabin home, planted in the wilderness, which God intended should blossom as a rose ; and one of the first in the grand army of pioneers, fell at the hands of savage cruelty. That cabin is now in dust, that more than warriors heroe's grave, for all these years has been unmarked, save the simple monument that wifely devotion reared upon the spot. Imagine, if you can, the scenes of seventy years ago, and the surroundings of this historic ground. Ohio as a state, was but 10 years old - a mere stripling in the race of confederated communities. Wafted from her Northern border ovei the unbroken forests came the low, ominous mutter ings of the imminent fearful conflict with Great Britain, soon to arouse anew the spirit that a few decades before had canonized the doctrine that "resistance td tyrants is obedience to God."

With the exceptions of a few section of the state ] in the Southern and Middle parts her population was sparse and scattered. The close of the war ofj .the Revolution found her territory almost unoccu^ pied by the descendants of the first settlers of the' eastern shores of this country. The scream of the panther and the howl of the wolf were no unusual sounds, while all over this portion of the state roamed the primitive children of the forest, anxious, suspicious, fearful and treacherous, here today,] yonder tomorrow, seeming to interpret their des< tiny in the march of events, and indifferent to thej fate of friend and foe alike. They were the scourge] of peaceful homes, the red-handed cowards of the j wilderness. Few rough cabin homes had been! reared in all this region and only in occasional! spots^had the forest been hewn down to give placet to the cultivation of the soil. Scarcely was the t inode of the old familiar cow-bell heard in all the' waste, yet such was the inviting character of this locality with a few others in the the County ofj Richland, that civilized man chose it for his home; and defied the barriers that* seemed so formidable, to bear him out. The indomitable spirit and stern ] resolves of those early pioneers were sufficient toil overcome every obstacle, and we find a select few| in possession of forest and stream, hill and valle}T,

- and at the same time the owners in fee simple of| whole counties of danger. Neither African deserts, burning sands nor Alpine snows, could seemingly check the ambitious Napoleon in his mad career to; universal Empire.

But he found his Waterloo and the world re-j joiced in his downfall. Not so with man's efforts in subduing the wilderness and planting his feet on the useless weeds of error, that everywhere so freely grow. We more easily picture the future, than paint the past, and artist's brush or mortal words are inadequate to give us a clear understanding of this valley and these hills seventy years ago. We only know the fact that these solitudes were unbroken, but fail of proof save tradition's historic story, for nearly all the living witnesses have passed away. The sky, with its myriads ot revolving worlds is far beyond our reach and we fail to penetrate its hidden mysteries.

We know it is there. The limitless and everroaring ocean rolls on, and buries and wreck whole fleets and man's grandest works beneath it. Thus time works revolutions, changes the face of the country and sweeps from earth every living crea ture. But the good men do live after them, and their names endure while their bodies sleep in dust and ashes. For more than twenty centuries the heroes who fell at Thermopylae have been idolized for the sacrifice of their lives that Greece might not perish. Poetry and song have vied with each other in keeping green their memories and patriotism is quickened everywhere by their example.

No nobler exhibition of true courage and ennobling manhood has ever been displayed, than in the lives and deaths of the first settlers of this countrv. I speak not particularly of those who fell by the hand of violence, but of the great army of pioneers who made this goolv heritage what it is, a few of whose immediate descendants remain with us, and are here today to mingle with us, and share in the proceedings of this hour. Behold how changed ! Ohio, a veritable Empire in the extent of her territory possesses a population more numerous than the colonies that battled for the independence of this land against Great Britain, upon whose dominion the sun never set and whose morning drum-

The spirit and genius that converted the wilderness into a garden, live in the breasts of the men and women of this generation ; and this assembled throng before me today are the living evidences that years can not obliterate the scenes ot 1812, or extinguish the fires that glowed on the hospitable hearthstones of early cabin homes. I stand today in a presence that inspires reverence and calls for the out pouring of gratitude, if not of devotion.

I stand amid surroundings that betoken the careful industry that makes this valley what it is. I look into the faces of the old, whose heads are whitened, whom age has bowed to the earth, and indeed with sorrow, but with toil and who see around them the rewards of honest labor, well calculated to smooth the pathway of their declining | years. But before they take their harness off and lay it aside, they come to pay a tribute of undying gratitude at the shrine of those whose blood stained the door sill of a pioneer home.

it becomes important and material and ought to be interesting on this occasion, to go back five or six 3'ears prior to the happening of the event we meet this day, especially to commemorate. In 1806 and 1807 Richland County, with several adjacent, was surveyed into townships and sections, and the nearest County seat was Lancaster, now Fairfield County It was not until 1808 that Knox and Richland Counties secured a county organization with the seat of justice at Mt. Vernon and in April of that year but thirty feix votes were cast for county officers, the election being held at the county seat. Kot until 1807 was there a single white settler in Ashland Countv. Here and there were Indian towns, as they' were called, but

In 1809 James Copus settled on the Blackfork, then in Richland County, bringing with him his wife and children. What a great stout heart must have throbbed in his heroic breast, daring as he did, plant his home in the very midst of the natural enemies of the white man with no defence save his own strong arm, and the reliance on Him, who sees not as man sees, nor a sparrow fall without his care! Here he pitched his cabin home, consisting of split timbers leaning against a horizontal pole some 20 feet from the ground, supported by the forks, planted for that purpose, the ends closed up by setting small timbers in the ground, leaving a space for a door and an opening above as a chim ney for the escape of smoke. The floor was man's mother earth. Here for eighteen months that family lived and prospered, and were happy. In 1810 he built a cabin near the fountain, which from that time to this has never ceased to discharge its limpid waters. About this time the Zimmers, the Crawfords, the Lambrights, the Coulters, the Tanne* hills, the Haleys, the Davises, the Gardners, the Olivers, the Kinneys, the Rices and a few others settled along the Blackfork.

Each year added to the number of ' settlers in this vicinity and in other portions of Ashland County. They came for honest purposes. They came to encounter hardships and dangers, that they might secure homes for themselves and families. No spirit of speculation had taken possession of their souls as we would conclude in our day. They left homes of comparative comfort and safety in Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia. As a general thing to improve their condition and redeem a goodly country from the control of untutored, barbarous tribes, and make it better by their industry and upright examples. But the evil davs came.

June 18, 1812 our government declared war against Great Britain for the purpose, among other causes, of compelling an obswrvence of the treaty of 1783 by the terms of which that government agreed to surrender all control over American citizens, and certain parts on the Great Lakes. Fropi the eastern shores of our country the Indians had been gradually driven until Ohio, Indiana and Michigan, became the theater of their hunting and warlike enterprises. These execrable warrors were the natural allies of the enemies of our country. Muttering?, not loud but deep were heard all through this section of the state, foreboding evil omens to the frontier settlers' homes. The roan of hostile cannon, and the tramping of war steeds in ordinary warfare, would have been sweet music in the ears of bold, fearless, valorous men, such as were our ancestors of whom I speak today, in comparison to the skulking shadow7 of murderous Indians hanging around the homes of the whites.