Bloominggrove Township

Blooming Grove Township

BLOOMING GEOVE TOWNSHIP was organized March 4, 1816, out of Madison Township, then eighteen miles square. When first erected, it was eigliteen miles long, from east to west, and twelve miles wide, and included the west half of what is now Butler, all of the present Blooming Grove, Cass, Plymouth, Sharon, Jackson, Franklin, Auburn and Vernon (both now in Crawford Count}-), and the west half of Weller, and contained two hundred and sixteen square miles. It remained in that form until June 4, 1816, when a square block was taken out of the southeast corner and called Franklin, leaving Blooming Grove in the shape of an L. In this irregular form it remained until Februar}' 2, 1818, when Plymouth and Sandusky Townships were created, leaving Blooming Grove six miles square, constituting Township 23, Range 18. The formation of Ashland County, in 1846, left part of Clear Creek Township in Richland County, which was at first attached to Blooming Grove ; but Butler Township being created Februar}- 5, 1849, this was attached to it. and Butler also took two tiers of sections from the east part of Blooming Grove, leaving the latter in its present shape - four b}^ six miles in extent.

The soil of the northern and central parts is clayej', and the surface' gently rolling. The southern part was somewhat marsh}- in an early day, a large part of it being covered with water a portion of the j-ear, with here and there a small pond or lake which retained the water during the entire year. Since its settlement, this part has been thoroughly drained, and now constitutes some of the finest farming land in the county, though, during a freshet, the waters of the Black Fork yet overflow and cover extensive bottoms, rendering them useless for agi'icultural purposes.

The dividing ridge between the head-waters of the Muskingum and those of the Hui'on and Vermillion Rivers, which flow into the lake, passes diagonally across the township from east to west, a little north of its center. The Black Fork and its tributaries drain all the southern part, the main body of that stream entering at the southeast corner, making a bend north and passing out near the center of its southern boundary line.

It does not appear that the Indians occupied any permanent camp within its limits, but it was used extensivel}' by the Wj'andots and Delawares for a hunting-ground. The numerous and beautiful sugar-tree groves (from which the name of the township is derived) rendered it a delightful camping and hunting ground during the spring and summer ; and small parties of Indians were often encamped in some part of it, either hunting or making sugar.

The first road in the township was cut l\y the army of Gen. Beall, in the summer of 1812. It entered the township at Shenandoah, passing northwest, through the present site of Rome.

and continuing on toward Sliiloh, in Cass Township. It is now a much-traveled highway. It was along this road that the larger part of the earl}' settlers entered the township. Many of these early settlers accompanied the army of Beall, and thus saw for the first time the beauties and atl vantages of their future home. Among these were George Hackett and Peter Maring ; the former in the capacity of scout and guide, and the latter as a pioneer, assisting to cut the road. Some of the first settlers entered their land as early as 1813 and 1814, but no actual settlement was made, so far as known, until 1814. The settlers who came fii'st were Jacob and John Stoner, and a Mr. McCart. They followed " Beall's trail " in their search for homes in the woods ; the Stoners settling on Section 22, and McCart on Section 30. The widow of John Stoner's son now occupies the old place ; and the McCart farm is now owned by a Mr. Sowders.

In 1815, George Hackett, before mentioned, came, settling on Section 19 - his grandson, William Hackett, now owns the farm. Daniel and James Ayers, William Trucks and Richard Sloman also came, settling near the present site of the village of Ganges. In the spring of 1816, William Guthrie came from Harrison County, Ohio (formerl}' from Pennsjdvania), settling on Section 18. This farm is now occupied b}' his gi-andsons - Ransom F. and Arkinson B. Guthrie. Henry Stoner came at the same time, settling on Section 1 5.

From this time forward, the township settled up more rapidly. John Wolph came in April, 1817 ; Samuel Zeigler in 1817, settling on Section 17 ; William Shurr, Section 32, 1817 ; Peter Maring, Section 7, 1817 ; Thomas Dickinson entered his land on Section 7, in January, 1810, but did not occupy it until 1822. His son, Thomas Dickinson, owns and occupies the same farm at present. Other early settlers were Benjamin Krummel, who settled on the farm now occupied by Robert INIeeks, who came in 1825 ; John McGaw, John Cleland and Thomas Thompson - the last three arriving about 1822-23, and settling in the eastern part of the township. William Mclntire and Jacob Walker were here as earl}- as 1818. Daniel Quinn, Charles Saviers, Robert and John Cummings, Andrew Paul, Jacob Greece, Joseph Sonenstine, Henrj' Young and Wilson Lindse}' were among the earliest settlers in the vicinity of present site of Shenandoah. George Lattimer and Christian Ehret settled near the present site of Rome.

It is believed that Mr. McCart erected the first cabin in the township, though there could have been little difference in time between the erection of his cabin and that of the Stoners.

Mr. Guthrie says, that upon his father's farm was a beautiful camping-ground, used by the Indians upon their hunting excursions. They had erected, in a sugar grove which occupied a high piece of ground, an open-ended cabin, which they used as headquarters. Here they sang their songs, danced, and smoked their pipes in the evening, and hunted and lounged during the da3^ They were happy and peaceful, but their hunting grounds were soon taken from them and their game driven away.

He relates an adventure of his brother John with wolves, which is illustrative of pioneer times. John had been on a visit to a neighbor's house, a Mr. Long, who lived in the territory now included in Cass Township, and darkness came upon him before he reached home. He was riding a spirited horse, and accompanied b}^ a half- wolf dog. The path was narrow and winding. Just before reaching home, his horse and dog scented danger ahead. The former snorted and was inclined to stop, and the latter whined nervously and kept closely under the horse's feet. Guthrie, peering through the darkness, observed dark forms flitting across the path, and knew he was close upon a gang of wolves. They had gathered in the path in front of him.

While urging his horse to advance, a wolf that had separated itself from the rest, suddenly sprang at the horse or dog from the roadside. The frightened animal sprang so quickl}- to one side that Guthrie was unhoi'sed, and falling upon the ground was immediately attacked b}' the wolf Without a doubt, he would have been torn in pieces instantly, but his faithful dog, which had before shown signs of fear, now came to his I'escue, attacking the wolf with great ferocity, compelling the latter to release his hold of Guthrie and defend himself All this occurred in a moment's time, and Mr Guthrie had just time to swing himself into a tree when the remainder of the pack surrounded his faithful dog, which was getting the better of wolf number one. Other wolves came up and attacked the dog, which was thus compelled to release the first one. As soon as released, it sprang up and ran away, followed by the dog and the entire pack. Mr. Guthrie improved this opportunity to descend from the tree and make his escape. He reached home in safety, and soon after his dog also arrived in good condition. No wonder that the pioneers considered their dogs invaluable, as in hundreds of cases they saved their masters' lives, and were always ready at any time to risk their own for that purpose.

The wolves were only troublesome and somewhat dangerous when the settlements were few and far between. They especially loved young pigs, and would kill them in preference to the older hogs. At first it was almost impossible to keep hogs or sheep. The settlers were in the habit of keeping as many males as possible among the swine, as these, when they grew up, would defend the younger and weaker animals. Wolves were rarely able to make a successful raid on a farmer's hogs when there were several old males in the herd. At one time, when the Guthries were hauling in ha}', a wolf chased a pig from among the drove in the wood, pursuing it into the meadow near where they were at work. The wolf in this race was closely followed by the drove of hogs, including several old males. So closely was his wolfship pressed, that he was compelled to mount a hay-cock to save himself, and, in this position, was surrounded by the infuriated hogs. Suddenly one of the larger hogs rushed upon the heap of hay, upsetting it, and dislodging the wolf, which was seized as soon as it touched the ground, and was literally torn in pieces.

The pioneers were in the habit of erecting a pen for their sheep near the house. It was very high, and into it the sheep were driven ever}' night for safet}'. Wolves, however, driven by hunger, would sometimes succeed in getting into this pen and killing the sheep. On such occasions, they always so gorged themselves with mutton that they could not get out of the pen, and were compelled to remain and settle with the proprietor of the yard in the morning. The result of this settlement may be imagined.

One of the earl}' settlers, Thomas Dickei'son, was a blacksmith, and. in addition to his labors on his land, worked at the trade. He located his shop on a trail leading from the head-waters of the Black Fork to those of the Huron River. He was probably the first blacksmith in the township, and much of his work was making knives and tomahawks for his Indian friends, repairing their guns, etc.

The Stoner family was somewhat noted among the pioneers. Two sisters of Mrs. Stoner had been taken prisoners l\v the Indians when quite young and grew up among them, one of them marrying a half-breed by the name of Williams, by whom she had two children, the oldest of which subsequently mai-ried an Indian who was well known among all the early settlers as Johnny Cake. Mrs. Williams was so badly treated that she finally made her escape and returned to her father.

of that town), were in some respects a remarkable pioneer family. Greorge Foulks was the theme of manj' a wild tale of border life. He was captured by the Indians when eleyen 3-ears of age, and remained with them until he grew to manhood. A record of his adventures would be a fortune to a novelist, but, like thousands of pioneers, he passed away without leaving an}- written record, and thus there is left but the shadow}-, imperfect outlines of a daring, reckless, adventurous life ; the vision of a mighty hunter and backwoodsman flitting through forests of the past. Nothing can be told to a certainty, and thus passes out of existence what might have been a valuable record of pioneer life.

Upon the organization of the township, an election was held about one and half miles north of Rome, at the house of Mr. Madden, at which twent^'-one votes were polled.

For milling, the early settlers of this township generally went to what was known as the " Cole Creek " mill, near Sandusky, or to Beam's, on the Rock}- Fork.

The first mill was erected at Trucksville (Ganges) in 1816. by William Trucks and Daniel Ayers, on the Black Fork in the southwest part of the township. It was a poor concern, but a good deal better than none. The buhrs were manufactured out of -' nigger heads." They also erected, at the same time and place, a sawmill and a distiller}-, thus furnishing the three great staples of the time - flour, lumber and whisk3^ This mill was in operation, perhaps, fifteen years. It could only run a small portion of the year, as it stood on low ground and the frequent overflow of the Black Fork kept it blocked up a good deal of the time. It finally became a place of bad repute, a resort of " bummers," and as the settlers generalh- lost part of their grist and sometimes the entire grist, the}- ceased to patronize it.

The second mill was erected by Jacob Stoner, on Snip's Run, near the site of Rome. This, like the other, the settlers termed a '- thundergust " mill. It was erected on such low, marshy ground that every freshet blocked it up and prevented operations. This section of the countr}- is now thoroughly drained, and these overflows do not occur.

The third or fourth mill was Crouses, also erected on Snip's Run, a half-mile above Stoner's, and Avas no better than the others. None of these mills existed a great length of time.

One of the earliest mills was erected by Charles Saviers on Camp Council Run. This run, being fed mostly by the marshes, amounted to but little after the}- were drained.

In a very early day, Samuel Rogers erected a horse-mill in the northeast part of the township, to which the early settlers resorted, and where they were compelled to wait from one to three days for a grist, passing the time pleasantly pitching quoits, wrestling, jumping, shooting at a mark, etc., living meanwhile at Mr. Rogers' expense. The only mill in the township at present was erected by Walter Shupe, in Rome. It is owned by Mr. Bricker, of Ganges, and is a steam-mill.

The first school in this township was opened in December, 1824, in the cabin erected l)v William Guthrie in 1816. It was a three-months school, and was taught by Robert Finney. Mr. Guthrie had occupied this cabin about two years, when he erected a better one in the same yard, and thus the old cabin was honored by becoming the first schoolhouse. Those who attended this school were Nathan S. Guthrie, now a resident of Shiloh ; Francis, Eliza and Lydia Guthrie ; George, Betsy, Margaret, AVilliam. Mary and Drusilla Hackett ; Washington. David, Sallie and Mariah Long, and William and Thomas Dickinson. It was a subscription school, the teacher receiving $8 or .flO per month. Mr. Guthrie says that he and his brothers and sisters attended that school during the entire winter in their bare feet. The schoolhouse being in their 3'ard, they were aisle to get to it, often througli the deep snow, without frosting their feet.

About the same time (perhaps tlie same winter, tliougli no one can certainly say), a school was opened in the southern part of the township, in the Trucks and Ayers settlement, on the site of the present village of Ganges.

The following winter, 1825-26, the Guthrie school was taught in a cabin which had been erected by John Guthrie for a dwelling ; it was also on the Guthrie farm. John becoming dissatisfied with a life in the forest, returned to Harrison County, thus leaving the cabin vacant. Robert Finne}" also taught this school, and the same scholars attended, with the addition of the Zeiglers and Mosses. This schoolhouse contained a puncheon floor and paper windows ; and the school was continued here two winters. The only book used bj' the younger students was a paddle with the A B Cs on one side, and the a b, abs, on the other. llol)ert Finney, the teacher, afterward returned to Harrison Count3\ A majorit}- of the children who attended these schools came what would now be considered long distances, through the woods, with only the "blazed" trees to mark the wa}'. A few of these lioys and girls are yet living, and wondering where the 3'ears have gone, and feeling that the contrast between that day and this is almost beyond human belief

Among the earliest preachers in the township, are the familiar names of Robert Lee, James Rowland, Harry 0. Sheldon and others. These good men were everywhere in the count}' at that early da}', sowing the good seed, organizing societies and establishing churches.

The first church societ}- was probably that of the Presbyterians, organized by Robert Lee, about 1823. The early members of this societ}^ were James Hunter and wife, William Guthrie and wife, James Carr and wife, William

Lattimer, the Cleland family, Daniel Prosser and wife, Joseph Guthrie, the McGaw family, Jacob Walker and Mrs. William Young. Besides Mr. Lee, the Rev. Mr. Mathews, James Rowland and Rev. Mr. Garrison often preached to this society. About 1827 or 1828, this society- erected a log church on Snip's Run, about half a mile north of Rome. This building, which has long since disappeared, was about 20x30 feet in size, and was erected by the voluntary labor of the people, regardless of creed. The first graveyard naturally made its appearance in the vicinit}' of this church. The. building was occupied about fifteen years, when a frame was erected near it, which was used until 1860, when the society erected the present building in Rome. For man}- years this society was a strong, active one, but at present the membership is somewhat limited. A Sabbath school has alwa^'s been connected with the church.

The second church building was erected about 1835, by the German Reformed Society', in Rome. Rev. Mr. Leiter was instrumental in establishing this church, and preached for the society a number of years. To this organization belonged the Altorfers, the Butchers, the Pifers and Christian Ehret. This church has long since disappeared.

The Methodist Church of Rome was erected about 1840. The society was first organized some 5'ears earlier in the Stoner settlement, and the early meetings held in the old log schoolhouse north of Rome. The first members were the Stoners, the Clausen famil}', Solomon Madden, John Wolph, John Woods and other.s

The first church was a frame, and was used until 1875, when the present neat, substantial brick was erected at a cost of $2,800. A Sunday school was organized many years ago, and is 3'et continued, the membership being now about thirty.

erected in Trucksville, which is yet standing, a large, square, squatty-, unpainted, uglj- thing, and is, to-da^-, the only church building in that somewhat dilapidated and demoralized town. It was erected by people of different denominations, and has always been free to all denominations " except the Universalists," but is not extensively used for religious purposes ; it is allowed to '-rest" most of the time, and its appearance is in perfect harmony with its surroundings.

About 1859, a German Reformed Society was organized in Ganges, and this organization is the only one, at present, holding regular service in the church.

The Union Church, near Shenandoah, was erected about 1849, principally b}- the Presbj'terians. the German Reformed, Methodists, and Church of God. Jacob Cline gave one acre of ground for the church and graveyard. The principal movers in the erection of the church were Christian LTrick, David Miller, Tobias Fox, George Burgoyne, Charles Saviers, Peter Secrist, William Foulks, Daniel Quinn, and Henry Young. IMinisters of every denomination are allowed to occup}' the pulpit. It is a large, active church, more than one hundred members of the different denominations worshiping here. The Sunday school is also large and active, with a membership of an average of eighty or more pupils.

Near it stands the Disciples' Church of Shenandoah, organized in March, 1876. This society, for years, worshiped in the Union Church, but finally gi'ew strong enough to erect a building of its own, in 1879. The principal members are Doctor Starr, Frank ^lorris, David Miller, John Mercer, Henry Cline, Milo Starr, Alanson Martin and I. P. Morris. This is a neat frame building, and cost about $3,000. Rev. John Lowe was their first and also the

The United Brethern Church, located in the northeast part of the township, on Section 3, was erected about 1860. It was organized by Rev. Hill. The principal memliers were William jNIcUmber, Joseph Walker. Samuel Rickard and John Kensil. The building is frame, and cost about $600 ; the membership is about forty. A Sabbath school is supported during the summer.

Three villages haA'e an- existence within the limits of this township, neither of which can lay claim to great attractions to the fortune seeker, or lover of the beautiful.

The oldest of these is Ganges, formerly called Trucksville. laid out by Wm. Trucks and Daniel Ayres, in the spring of 1815. It was laid out in a square, with a public square in the center.

In a very early day, a road had been opened from IMount A'ernon north to the lake, for the purpose of gaining an outlet for gi-ain and other produce. The Truckses and A^'erses followed this then ver}' new road, and located their land on the bank of the Black Fork, in what afterward proved to be the southwestern corner of Blooming Grove Township. Here, where this road crossed the Black Fork, they conceived to be a good place for a town. Mr. Trucks immediately erected a cabin for his own use upon the land he had entered, and this became the first cabin in the new town. He also erected a mill, on the low ground along the stream, referred to elsewhere. The Ayerses also erected cabins on their land, and were men of families and influence in that part of the township. Daniel Ayers was probably the first Justice of the Peace in the township, and held court at his cabin several years. His brother James erected a hotel on the town site, and immediately did a thriving business. The little town started forward with bright prospects, the road upon which it was located becoming soon a gi-eat and important highway, over

The first post office in the township was located here ; and the first orchard planted in the township was by Messrs. Trucks and Aj'ers, the}' having procured the young trees from the famous Johnu}' Appleseed. The village grew rapidly, and at one time it aspired to the position of county seat, with fair prospects of getting it. So great was the hotel business that a second building was erected for that purpose. C. R. Hooker, now of Mansfield, was one of the early proprietors of this hotel. In addition to the hotels, four stores were in operation at one time, other business being equally active. Trucksville appeared on the high road to prosperit}'. The first of these stores was started by Francis Grraham, who enjoyed daily opportunities of sending to the lake for his goods, and forwarding his produce to that market.

It was a sad, solemn da}' for Trucksville when the iron horse came down through the woods, on the Sandusky, Mansfield & Newark Railroad. The whistle of the locomotive was the death-knell of the village, as it was of other villages. It began to decline from that day. The great wagon trains of produce soon disappeared entirely - the cars carried the grain so much cheaper and quicker. For many years the town has been comparatively dead. There may be 100 people there to-day, living in dilapidated houses, many of them unpainted, and the general appearance is one of decay. One or two small stores constitute about the only business of importance. Even the mill erected by George Weaver, after the Trucks mill disappeared, has ceased its labors.

The next attempt to build a city in the township was on the northwest quarter of Section 8. Here Alfred Foulks laid out a town which he called Rome. It is situated on " Beall's Trail." It was platted on both sides of the road and became the largest of the three villages. Its growth was, at first, more healthy than that of

George Foulks came here in an early day, and having a large family, entered several quarter-sections of land in the vicinity - one-quarter for each of his children. He, and his son-inlaw, Jessie Davidson, erected the first houses, the former bringing on a stock of goods and starting the first store, and the latter starting the first hotel. At one time, the place contained three stores, carrying a general stock, and a proportionate amount of other business was transacted. The place, at present, straggles along on either side of the road for a quarter of a mile, and has a dilapidated, sleepy look. The wonder is, what all its people - ^two or three hundred in number - do for a living. Jacob Rarick keeps the only store in the place. The first schoolhouse was erected about 1840 ; Geo. W. Cline being the first teacher. The present large frame building was erected about 1855.

Shenandoah was laid out on " BealFs Trail," in the southeast part of the township, by William and George Altorfer, on the southeast quarter of Section 34, in June, 1844. The Altorfers purchased the land of Robert Cummings, who entered it. The first building erected was of hewed logs, and is yet standing, forming a part of the hotel now kept by Standard Cline. Jacob Bushey erected the second house, and John Valeiitine the third. These men were shoemakers. John Ninan started a blacksmith-shop and William Hisey, a pottery. John Sanker erected a wagon-shop, and still continues the business. Edward Hall came from Rome, and started the first store and post office. The store has changed hands several times, and is now conducted by I. P. Morris. The Altorfers were from the Shenandoah Valley, Va., hence the name of the village. At present, there are seventeen dwelling-houses in the place ; a rake and handle factory, wagonshop, store and two churches.

Source changes here: from History of Richland County Ohio, by A.a. Graham, published 1880; 4,180 words in this source stream.

Blooming Grove Township

LOOMING GROVE TOWNSHIP was - organized March 4, 1816, out of Madison Township, then eighteen miles square. When first erected, it was eighteen miles long, from east to west, and twelve miles wide, and included the west half of what is now Butler, all of the present Blooming Grove, Cass, Plymouth, Sharon, Jackson, Franklin, Auburn and Vernon (both now in Crawford County), and the west half of Weller, and contained two hundred and sixteen square miles. It remained in that form until June 4, 1816, when a square block was taken out of the southeast corner and called Franklin, leaving Blooming Grove in the shape of an L. In this irregular form it remained until February 2, 1818, when Plymouth and Sandusky Townships were created, leaving Blooming Grove six miles square, constituting Township 23, Range 18. The formation of Ashland County, in 1846, left part of Clear Creek Township in Richland County, which was at first attached to Blooming Grove ; but Butler Township being created February 5, 1849, this was attached to it, and Butler also took two tiers of sections from the east part of Blooming Grove, leaving the latter in its present shape - four by six miles in extent.

The soil of the northern and central parts is clayey. and the surface gently rolling. The southern part was somewhat marshy in an early day, a large part of it being covered with water a portion of the year, with here and there a small pond or lake which retained the water during the entire year. Since its settlement. this part has been thoroughly drained, and now constitutes some of the finest farming land in the county, though, during a freshet, the waters of the Black Fork yet overflow and cover extensive bottoms, rendering them useless for agricultural purposes.

The dividing ridge between the head-waters, of the Muskingum and those of the Huron and Vermillion Rivers, which flow into the lake, passes diagonally across the township from east to west, a little north of its center. The Black Fork and its tributaries drain all the southern part, the main body of that stream entering at the southeast corner, making a bend north and passing out near the center of its southern boundary line.

It does not appear that the Indians occupied any permanent camp within its limits, but it was used extensively by the Wyandots and Delawares for a hunting-ground. The numerous and beautiful sugar-tree groves (from which the name of the township is derived) rendered it a delightful camping and hunting ground during the spring and summer; and small parties of Indians were often encamped in some part of it, either hunting or making sugar.

The first road in the township was cut by the army of Gen. Beall, in the summer of 1812. It entered the township at Shenandoah, passing northwest, through the present site of Rome,

Cass It is now a much-traveled highway. It was along this road that the larger part of the early settlers entered the township. of these early settlers accompanied the army of Beall, and thus saw for the first time the beauties and adyantages of their future home. Among Maring; the former in the capacity of scout and guide. and the latter as a pioneer, assisting to cut the road. Some of the first settlers entered their land as early as 1813 and 1814, but no actual settlement was made, so far as known, until 1814. The settlers who came first were Jacob and John Stoner, and a Mr. McCart. They followed ' Beall's trail" in their search for homes in the woods; the Stoners settling on Section 22, and McCart on Section 30. The widow of John Stoner's son now occupies the old place; and the MeCart farm is now owned by a Mr. Sowders.

In 1815, George Hackett, before mentioned, came, settling on Section 19 - his grandson, William Hackett, now owns the farm. Daniel and James Ayers, William Trucks and Richard Sloman also came, settling near the present site of the village of Ganges. In the spring of 1816, William Guthrie came from Harrison County, Ohio (formerly from Pennsylvania), settling on Section 18. This farm is now occupied by his grandsons - Ransom F. and Arkinson B. Guthrie. Henry Stoner came at the same time, settling on Section 15.

From this time forward, the township settled up more rapidly. John Wolph came in April, 1817; Samuel Zeigler in 1817, settling on Section 17; William Shurr, Section 32, 1817; Peter Maring, Section 7, 1817; Thomas Dickinson entered his land on Section 7, in January, 1819, but did not oceupy it until 1822. His son, Thomas Dickinson, owns and occupies the same farm at present. Other early settlers were Benjamin Krummel, who settled on the farm now occupied by Robert Meeks, who came in 1825; John McGaw, John Cleland and Thomas Thompson - the last three arriving about 1822-23, and settling in the eastern part of the township. William McIntire and Jacob Walker were here as early as 1818. Daniel Quinn, Charles Saviers, Robert and John Cummings, Andrew Paul, Jacob Greece, Joseph Sonenstine, Henry Young and Wilson Lindsey: were among the earliest settlers in the vicinity of present site of Shenandoah. George Lattimer and Christian Ehret settled near the present site of Rome.

It is believed that Mr. McCart erected the first cabin in the township, though there could have been little difference in time between the erection of his cabin and that of the Stoners.

Mr. Guthrie says, that upon his father's farm was a beautiful camping-ground, used by the Indians upon their hunting excursions. They had erected, in a sugar grove which occupied a high piece of ground, an open-ended cabin, sang their songs, danced, and smoked their pipes in the evening, and hunted and lounged during the day. They were happy and peaceful, but their hunting grounds were Soon taken | from them and their game driven away.

He relates an adventure of his brother John with wolves, which is illustrative of pioneer times. John had been on a visit to a neighbor's house, a Mr. Long, who lived in the territory now included in Cass Township, and darkness came upon him before he reached home. He was riding a spirited horse, and accompanied by a half-wolf dog. The path was narrow and winding. Just before reaching home, his horse and dog scented danger ahead. The former snorted and was inclined to stop, and the latter whined nervously and kept closely under the horse's feet. Guthrie, peering through the darkness, observed dark forms flitting across the path, and knew he was close upon a gang of wolves. They had gathered in the path in front of him.

While urging his horse to advance, a wolf that had separated itself from the rest, suddenly sprang at the horse or dog from the roadside. The frightened animal sprang so quickly to one side that Guthrie was unhorsed, and falling upon the ground was immediately attacked by the wolf. Without a doubt, he would have been torn in pieces instantly, but his faithful dog, which had before shown signs of fear, now came to his rescue, attacking the wolf with great ferocity, compelling the latter to release his hold of Guthrie and defend himself. All this occurred in a moment's time, and Mr Guthrie had just time to swing himself into a tree when the remainder of the pack surrounded his faithful dog, which was getting the better of wolf number one. Other wolves came up and attacked the dog, which was thus compelled to release the first one. As soon as released, it sprang up and ran away, followed by the dog and the entire pack. Mr. Guthrie improved this opportunity to descend from the tree and make his escape. He reached home in safety, and soon after his dog also arrived in good condition. No wonder that the pioneers considered their dogs invaluable, as in hundreds of cases they saved their masters' lives, and were always ready at any time to risk their own for that purpose.

The wolves were only troublesome and somewhat dangerous when the settlements were few and far between. They especially loved young pigs, and would kill them in preference to the older hogs. At first it was almost impossible to keep hogs or sheep. The settlers were in the habit of keeping as many males as possible among the swine, as these, when they grew up, would defend the younger and weaker animals. Wolves were rarely able to make a successful raid on a farmer's hogs when there were several old males in the herd. At onetime, when the Guthries were hauling in hay, a wolf chased a pig from among the drove in the wood, pursuing it into the meadow near where they were at work. The wolf in this race was closely followed by the drove of hogs, including several old males. So closely was his wolfship pressed, that he was compelled to mount a hay-cock to save himself, and, in this position, was surrounded by the infuriated hogs. Suddenly one of the larger hogs rushed upon the heap of hay, upsetting it, and dislodging the wolf, which was seized as soon as it touched the ground, and was literally torn in pieces.

The pioneers were in the habit of erecting a pen for their sheep near the house. It was very high, and into it the sheep were driven every night for safety. Wolves, however, driven by hunger, would sometimes succeed in getting into this pen and killing the sheep. On such occasions, they always so gorged themselves with mutton that they could not get out of the | pen, and were compelled to remain and settle with the proprietor of the yard in the morning. The result of this settlement may be imagined.

One of the early settlers, Thomas Dickerson, | was a blacksmith, and, in addition to his labors on his land, worked at the trade. He located his shop on a trail leading-from the head-waters of |-| the Black Fork to those of the Huron. River. | He was probably the first blacksmith in the township, and much of his work was making knives and tomahawks for his Indian friends, | repairing their guns, etc.

The Stoner family was somewhat noted |. among the pioneers. Two sisters of Mrs. Stoner had been taken prisoners by the Indians when quite young and grew up among them, one of them marrying a half-breed by the name of Williams, by whom she had two children, the oldest of which subsequently married an Indian - who was well known among all the early settlers | as Johnny Cake. Mrs. Williams was so badly | treated that she finally made her escape and returned to her father. ; of that town), were in some respects a remarkable pioneer family. George Foulks was the theme of many a wild tale of border life. He was captured by the Indians when eleven years of age, and remained with them until he grew to manhood. A record of his adventures would be a fortune to a novelist, but, like thousands of pioneers, he passed away without leaving any written record, and thus there is left but the shadowy, imperfect outlines of a daring, reckless, adventurous life; the vision of a mighty hunter and backwoodsman flitting Nothing can be told to a certainty, and thus passes out of éxistence what might have been a valuable record of pioneer life.

For milling, the early settlers of this township generally went to what was known as the | "Cole Creek " mill, near Sandusky, or to Beam's, on the Rocky Fork.

The first mill was erected at Trucksville- (Ganges) in 1816, by William Trucks and Daniel Ayers, on the Black Fork in the southwest part of the township. It was a poor concern, | but a good deal better than none. The buhrs also erected, at the same time and place, a sawmill and a distillery, thus furnishing the three ereat staples of the time - flour, lumber and whisky. This mill was in operation, perhaps, fifteen years. It could only run a small porblocked up a good deal of the time. It finally became a place of bad repute, a resort of " bummers," and as the settlers generally lost part of | their grist and sometimes the entire grist, they

The second mill was erected by Jacob Stoner, on Snip's Run, near the site of Rome. This, like the other, the settlers termed a " thundergust" mill. It was-erected on such low, marshy ground that every freshet blocked it up and prevented operations. This section of the country is now thoroughly drained, and these overflows do not occur.

The third or fourth mill was Crouse's, also erected on Snip's Run, a half-mile aboye Stoner's, and was no better than the others. None of these mills existed a great length of time.

One of the earliest mills was erected by Charles Saviers on Camp Council Run. This run, being fed mostly by the marshes, amounted to but little after they were drained.

In a very early day, Samuel Rogers erected a horse-mill in the northeast part of the township, to which the early settlers resorted, and. where they were compelled to wait from 'ene to three days for a grist, passing the time pleasantly pitching quoits, wrestling, jumping, shooting at a mark, etc., living meanwhile at Mr. Rogers' expense. The only mill in the township at present was erected by Walter Shupe,in Rome. Itis owned by Mr. Bricker, of Ganges, and is a steam-mill.

The first school in this township was opened in December, 1824, in the cabin erected hy William Guthrie in 1816. It was a three-months school, and was taught by Robert Finney. Mr. Guthrie had occupied this cabin about two years, when he erected a better one in the same yard, and thus the old eabin was honored by becoming the first schoolhouse. Those who at- a resident of Shiloh; Francis, Eliza and Lydia Guthrie ; George, Betsy, Margaret, William, Mary and Drusilla Hackett; Washington, David, Sallie and Mariah Long, and William and Thomas Dickinson. It was a subscription school, the teacher receiving $8 or $10 per month. Mr. Guthrie says that he aad his brothers and sisters attended that school, during the entire winter in their bare feet. The schoolhouse being in their yard. they were able to get to it. often through the deep snow, without frosting their feet.

About the same time (perhaps the same winter, though no one can certainly say), a school was opened in the southern part of the township, in the Trucks and Ayers settlement, on the site of the present village of Ganges.

The following winter, 1825-26, the Guthrie school was taught in a cabin which had been erected by John Guthrie for a dwelling; it was also on the Guthrie farm. John becoming dissatisfied with a life in the forest, returned to Harrison County. thus leaving the cabin vacant. Robert Finney also taught this school, and the same scholars attended, with the addition of the Zeiglers and Mosses. This schoolhouse contained a puncheon floor and paper windows ; and the school was continued here two winters. The only book used by the younger students was a paddle with the A B C's on one side, and the a b, abs, on the other. Robert Finney, the teacher, afterward returned to Harrison County. A majority of the children who attended these schools came what would now be considered long distances, through the woods, with only the "blazed" trees to mark the way. A few of these boys and girls are yet living, and wondering where

Among the earliest preachers in the township. are the familiar names of Robert Lee, James Rowland, Harry O. Sheldon and others. These good men were everywhere in the county at that early day, sowing the good seed, organizing societies and establishing churches.

The first church society was probably that of the Presbyterians, organized by Robert Lee, about 1823. The early members of this society were James Hunter and wife, William Guthrie and wife. James Carr and wife, William

Lattimer, the Cleland family, Daniel Prosser and wife, Joseph Guthrie, the McGaw family, Jacob Walker and Mrs. William Young. Besides Mr. Lee, the Rev. Mr. Mathews, James Rowland and Rey. Mr. Garrison often preached to this society. About 1827 or 1828, this society erected a log church on Snip's Run, about half a mile north of Rome. This building, which has long since disappeared, was about 20x30 feet in size, and was erected by the voluntary labor of the people, regardless of creed. The first graveyard naturally made its appearance in the vicinity of this church. The building was occupied about fifteen years, when a frame was erected near it, which was used until 1860, when the society erected the present building in Rome. For many years this society was a strong, active one, but at present the membership is somewhat limited. A Sabbath school has always been connected with - the church.

in Rome. Rev. Mr. Leiter was instrumental in establishing this church, and preached for the society a number of years. To this organization belonged the Altorfers, the Butchers, the |. Pifers and Christian Ehret. This church has long since disappeared.

The Methodist Church of Rome was erected about 1840. The society was first organized some years earlier in the Stoner settlement, and the early meetings held in the old log schoolhouse northof Rome. The first members were the Stoners, the Clausen family, Solomon Madden, John Wolph, John Woods and other.s

The first church was a frame, and was used until 1875, when the present neat, substantial brick was erected at a cost of $2,800. A Sunday school was organized many years ago, and is yet continued, the membership being now about thirty.

erected in Trucksville, which is yet standing, a large, square, squatty, unpainted, ugly thing, and is, to-day, the only church building in that somewhat dilapidated and demoralized town. It was erected by people of different denominations, and has always been free to all denominations "except the Universalists," but is not extensively used for religious purposes ; it is allowed to "rest" most of the time, and its appearance is in perfect harmony with its surroundings.

About 1859, a German Reformed Society was organized in Ganges, and this organization is the only one, at present, holding regular service in the church.

The Union Church, near Shenandoah, was erected about 1849, principally by the Presbyterians, the German Reformed, Methodists, and Church of God. Jacob Cline gave one acre of ground for the church and graveyard. 'The principal movers in the erection of the church were Christian Urick, David Miller, Tobias Fox, George Burgoyne, Charles Saviers, Peter Secrist, William Foulks, Daniel Quinn, and Henry Young. Ministers of every denomination are allowed to occupy the pulpit. It is a large, active church, more than one hundred members of the different denominations worshiping here. The Sunday school is also large and active, with a membership of an average of eighty or more pupils.

Near it stands the Disciples' Church of Shenandoah, organized in March, 1876. This society, for years, worshiped in the Union Church, but finally grew strong enough to erect a building of its own, in 1879. The principal members are Doctor Starr, Frank Morris, David Miller, John Mercer, Henry Cline, Milo Starr, Alanson Martin and I. P. Morris. This is a neat frame building, and cost about $3,000. Rev. John Lowe was their first and also the

The United Brethern Church, located in the northeast part of the township, on Section 3, was erected about 1860. It was organized by Rey. Hill. The principal members were William McUmber, Joseph Walker, Samuel Rickard and John Kensil. The building is frame, and cost about $600 ; the membership is about forty. A' Sabbath school isssupported during the summer.

Three villages have an existence within the limits of this township, neither of which can lay claim to great attractions to the fortune seeker, or lover of the beautiful.

The oldest of these is Ganges, formerly called Trucksyille, laid, out by Wm. Trucks and Daniel Ayres, in the spring of 1815. It was laid out in a square, with a public square in the center.

In a very early day, a road had been opened from Mount Vernon north to the lake, for the purpose of gaining an outlet for grain and other produce. The Truckses and Ayerses followed this then very new road, and located their land 'on the bank of the Black Fork, in what afterward proved to be the southwestern | corner of Blooming Grove Township. Here, . where this road crossed the Black Fork, they conceived to be a good place for a town. Myr. Trucks immediately erected a cabin for his own use upon the land he had entered, and this became the first cabin in the new town. He also erected a mill, on the low ground along the stream, referred to elsewhere. The Avyerses also erected cabins on their land, and were men of families and influence in that part of' the township. Daniel Ayers was probably the first Justice of the Peace in the township, and held court at his cabin several years. His brother James erected a hotel on the town site, and immediately did a thriving business. The little town started forward with bright prospects, the road upon which it was located 'becoming soon a great and important highway,-.over

The first post office in the township was located here; and the first orchard planted in the township was by Messrs. Trucks and Ayers, they having procured the young trees from the famous Johnny Appleseed. The village grew rapidly, and at one time it aspired to the position of county seat, with fair prospects of getting it. So great was the hotel business that a second building was erected for that purpose. C. R. Hooker, now of Mansfield, was one of the early proprietors of this hotel. In addition to the hotels, four stores were in operation at one time. other business being equally active. Trucksyille appeared on the high road to prosperity. The first of these stores was started by Francis Graham. who enjoyed daily opportunities of sending to the lake for his goods, and forwarding his produce to that market.

It was a sad. solemn day for Trucksville when the iron horse came down through the woods, on the Sandusky, Mansfield & Newark Railroad. The whistle of the locomotive was the death-knell of the village, as it was of other villages. It began to decline from that day. The great wagon trains of produce soon disappeared entirely - the cars carried the grain so much cheaper and quicker. For many years the town has been comparatively dead. There may be 100 people there to-day, living in dilapidated houses. many of them unpainted, and the general appearance is one of decay. One

The next attempt to build a city in the township was on the northwest quarter of Section 8. Here Alfred Foulks laid out a town which he called Rome. It is situated on " Beall's Trail." It was platted on both sides of the road and became the largest of the three villages. Its growth was, at first, more healthy than that of for each of his children. He, and his son-inlaw, Jessie Davidson, erected the first houses, the former bringing on a stock of goods and starting the first store, and the latter starting the first hotel. At one time, the place contained three stores, carrying a general stock, and a proportionate amount of other business was transacted. The place, at present, straggles along on either side of the road for a quarter of a mile, and has a dilapidated, sleepy look. The wonder is, what all its people - two or three hundred in number - do for a living. Jacob Rarick keeps the only store in the place. The first schoolhouse was erected about 1840 ; Geo. W. Cline being the first teacher. The present large frame building was erected about 1855.

Shenandoah was laid out on " Beall's Trail," in the southeast part of the township, by William and George Altorfer, on the southeast quarter of Section 34, in June, 1844. The Altorfers purchased the land of Robert Cummings, who entered it. The first building erected was of hewed logs, and is yet standing, forming a part of the hotel now kept by Standard Cline. Jacob Bushey erected the second house, and John Valentine the third. These men were shoemakers. John Ninan started a

John Sanker erected a wagon-shop, and still continues the business. from Rome, and started the first store and post office. The store has changed hands several times, and is now conducted by I. P. Morris. The Altorfers were from the Shenandoah Valley, Va., hence the name of the village. At present, there are seventeen dwelling-houses in the place ; a rake and handle factory, wagonshop, store and two churches.