Blue Rock Township

Of Office Administered While The River Settlers Yet Living

There are some remarkable peculiarities connected with the settlement of this township; not the least of which is the traditionary record, obtained from reliable persons, but who fail to fix dates to events that seem almost to suggest them. Thus we find it necessary to speak of frst per- SONS, places, and things, without regard to time, since we have nothing positive on 'this subject, where the dates do not appear. 'Then, it is remarkable that so many prominent men should find their way into an unknown region, when the nucleus of settlements, that had been made, still invited any who might be seeking fortune and fame. But, it is more than likely, that the keen eye of Daniel Convers, who carried the first mail by canoe, on the Muskingum River, in 1798, trom Marietta to Zanesville, observed the beauteous landscape, as he paddled by Blue Rock, and communicated his views to those he met with. Although 'the oldest inhabitant" does not date back of 1805, which indicates that the wave of setthement moved slowly that way.

The first mail carried through Blue Rock was by canoe, 'on the Muskingnm: River, Converse, in 1798, the 'Toute extended from Zanesville and back.

The first mail coach, between the same points, was driven by Zadok Burdick ; and to dispose of the subject of mails we will add, that there are three postoffices in Blue Rock township, at this time; one at Gaysport, named Blue Rock: one at Kiefer, in the northeast quarter of the township, and one at Rural Dale.

The first brick house was built by Caleb Butler, on section twenty-eight. The second, by John Trimble, on section twenty-seven ; both are now occupied by their descendants.

The first bridge was built across the mouth of Dry Ripple Run, near the ''Old Federal Trail," which ran from Wheeling to Limestone (now Maysville, Kentucky), entered Blue Rock township in the northeast corner, on the property of James White and passsed through the southern portion of the township, crossing the Muskingum River at the Big Blue Rock, on the property now owned by W. E. Bozeman.

David Dutro and Dr. Baker settled on sections five and eight, on the east Bank of the Muskingum River, in 1805. Samuel Dutro (son of David) occupies the old homestead. Sarah Dutro, born December 8, 1805, was probably the first child born in the township. Samuel Dutro (son of David) is the oldest living inhabitant born in the township.

The first tavern was kept by Lawrence Allwine, just above Gaysport, in 1810. Thesecond was by John Larrison, in Gaysport, and the third by Dr. Sears.

The first graveyard was on the property owned by Tobias Dilley. Among those sleeping there are: Elizabeth Baker, who died in 1811, and this being the first, files the date of beginning of this silent village ; then we noted the names of Amanda Newkirk, Mahala Wallace, a child of Wm. Wallace, and Maria Dillon. 'The next burial place was on Jand now owned by T.W. Allen.

Presbyterian Church

Wallace, Sr., John Thompson and wife, Samuel Milhouse and wife, Joseph McDonald and wife, James White, Sr., and wife, Thomas Finney and wife, and Mrs. Reed. The society has no regular organization.

The first was Dr. Baker, who came to this town-. ship in1805,and settled on the property now owned by Tobias Dilley. He was succeeded by Dr. Sears, and about 1830, Dr. Flanders came, and in 1836, Dr. Clapp came, and after himcame Dr. McNeal. This is a traditionary record, and just what part these sons of Galen played in the drama, besides administering physic, is not recorded. Dr. McCall came to Gaysport in 1844. Dr. Coverdale practiced at Ridgeway, in 1836, and Dr. Wilson, at Rural Dale, in 1837. There was a Dr. Hull in this region, also, but when, and just where, is not known.

Dr. Smith practiced at Rural Dale from 1842, to 1852, and Dr. Register from 1851, to 1860. Dr. Krapps came to Rural Dale in 1853, and practiced there until 1865. Dr. Lewis Haworth was here. Dr..Macomber came to Rural Dale in 1858, since which time the following physicians have succeeded each other: Dr's. Cooper, Kennedy, Jennings, Axline, and Leeper.

into more than five parts. The half dollars were divided into four parts, and the quarter dollar into four parts. This money they called ''sharp shins," because of its cutting its way through the pockets, in a few days, if carried. This was before the institution of banks, or the:conveniences now known to the money world.

The first orchard was planted in 1816, by John Finley. The farm was purchased in 1818, by Robert Silvey, a native of county Down, Ireland. He died in 1869, and the farm is now owned by Daniel Chandler. ;

The first salt wells in this township were sunk by the Ayers family, in a very early day, followed by Silas Stebbins, Milton Silvey, and others. All of these enterprises have been abandoned.

'*A petition was presented from a number of the inhabitants of the township of Salt Creek, praying for a division of the said township of Salt Creek, which was granted, and ordered to be recorded by the name of Blue Rock township, and that a copy of this division be handed to the

There seems to have been no record ot what territory was taken from Salt Creek township, and it does not appear what territory constituted Salt Creek township. Blue Rock township is bounded on the north by Salt Creek township, on the south by Morgan county, east by Meigs township, and west by the Muskingum river. The name of the township was suggested by a Blue Rock, on the west bank of the river, at the

The first election was held at the house of Lawrence Allwine, just above Gaysport, January 6th, 1814. The first officers were: Justices of the Peace, Lawrence Allwine and Joseph Smith ; Trustees, Eli Sherman, James Larrison, and Daniel Boan; Treasurer, David Dutro, Sr. ; Overseers of the Poor, Jacob Ayers and Peter Dingman; Fence Viewers, Samuel Johnson and William Eviland; Supervisors, John Larrison and Daniel Bean; Constables, George Watson and James Larrison ; Lister, Jacob Ayers ; Clerk, Lawrence Allwine. The commissions of the Justices are dated January 13th, 1814, and are signed by R. J. Meigs, Governor.

At one time, when James Larrison was elected Supervisor, Robert Finley was the officer to notify him of his election and administer the oath of office. Hestarted for Larrison's, but the Mus- deep for fording, and no boat being at hand, he was about to return, when Larrison came in sight, and Finley notified him by hallooing, and then directing him to hold up his right hand, he administered the oath of office across the water, and it was accepted as binding. This was, perhaps, the first legalizeu swearing done across the water !

The number of votes polled in Blue Rock township, in 1817, was thirty. The number in 1880, was two hundred and eighty. The elections are held at the town house, which is situated on the southwest quarter of section fifteen, near the centre of the township.

Topography

The surface of Blue Rock township is very hilly, some of the hilly being six hundred feet above low water level in the Muskingum river. The soil, with few exceptions, is clay. In the southern part of the township, especially in the vicinity of Rural Dale, limestone is abundant, and, like all such regions, it is well adapted to in this locality. Fruitof many kinds does well also. In the northern part of, the township, where clay predominates, and there is little limestone; the region is not so fertile.

Timber

This township has a first claim to being considered well timbered. The tulip tree, otherwise called poplar, finds a congenial home here ; fine specimens have grown in several parts of the township, some measuring five and six feet in diameter. And that remarkable tree not often spoken of by its genus, tor understood when we say it is of the genus /ug/ans, or, more precisely, juglans nigra, termed by the Welsh - in whose country it was highly regarded - ''wealth-knut,"' and that has proven such a source of wealth to the cabinet-maker of this country - I mean the black walnut - has been found here in its most magnificent proportions. Maple, having the beautiful curl in its fiber, and sugar-maple, beech and hickory, with now and then a grand old sycamore, make up the forests so beautiful. Some of the latter, on the banks of the Muskingum river, not far from Gaysport, are yet waving their graceful branches and inviting the traveler to their delightful shade.

The Muskingum river runs along the entire western boundary, and several small streams empty into it. The principal one, Dry Ripple run, heads at Rural Dale, and finds its outlet at Gaysport; Man's Fork of Salt Creek has its source on James Wallace's farm, on 'section twenty-three, and, coursing north, leaves the township. on the land of Mrs. R. Ward, on section four. The eastern portion of the township is drained by Meigs creek, the principal branch of which heads at '*Blossom Farm." Kent's | creek cuts across the extreme northeast corner of the township.

Sandstone And Fire-Clay

Several fine seams of sandstone, well adapted | | for building, and excellent for grindstones, are found. Fire-clay, of good quality, is abundant.

Salt

Nathaniel Ayers put down the first salt well in this township. _ pied by the residence of Robert Gay, in the village of Gaysport, in the year 1822; and during this year, another well was sunk at Gay sport, by | Ramey & Turner. |

By the barometer, the Hunter's bank was four hundred and tw enty-seven feet above low water of the Muskingum river, at Gaysport. The coal is mined for local use, 'and held in high esteem. The seam is the same as the Cumberland seam, and is found at its proper horizon, in Athens, Morgan, Muskingum, Noble, Guernsey, Bel-

By reference to the section taken near Rural Dale, it will be seen that the fossiliferous limey | storie in the deep valley is the Ames limestone. and Absalom Roberts, in 1824, to the depth of | five hundred and seventy-two feet. The average lying from seventy to one hundred and fifty feet below this limestone. I have been unable to obtain any authentic records of borings in Blue Rock township, but it is probable that what oil was obtained there came from proximately the same geological horizon. During the progress of the survey, it has been found that the rocks to the east of this township have a western dip. I regard it as probable that the oil in Blue Rock is found along a synclinal line, where the eastern dip meets the western dip referred to. Of late years, very little attention has been given to the 'production of oil in this township. - { Geological Report, 1873, vol. I, pp. 341-2; E. B. Andrews, Assistant Geologist. ]

1815. The next, was a Union school, embracing Rich Hill, Meigs, Salt Creek and Blue Rock townships, and was situated in Rich Hill town- 'ship, on Levi Brady's place. . This school house was built about 1819. The men who interested themselves in the school were, Rich Hill, John All, Joseph Starrett, Sr., and William Forsyth ; Meigs, Llewellen Pierce, Esq., Jesse Fenton and Mr. - - Haden; Salt Creek, William and Phillip Howell; Blue Rock, Frederick Wion, James Starrett, Sr., and William Echelberry, Sr. The teacher was Thomas McCoid.

Those who attended this school, have all gone to that bourn whence no traveler returns, except Mrs. Marshall Stultz, of Zanesville, Peter Wion, James and Joseph Starrett, Polly Fenton and Mrs. Jane Wilson.

The next was a Union school, of Blue Rock, Meigs and Salt Creek townships; the site was on land now owned by Peter Wion; the Trustees were, William Echelberry, Sr., Llewellen Pierce, Esq., and James Starrett. This school house was built in 1821. Among the teachers were, Erastus Hutchings and Thomas Fry.

The next school was a union effort for Blue Rock and Meigs townships, on land occupied by David E. Mitchell; this school house was built in 1824. The Trustees were, Jacob Onstat, Jacob Starrett, Sr., and Henry Onstat. The teacher was Thomas Thornsburg, an Irishman of considerable learning, and greatly respected by all who knew him.

The next school was on James Starrett's land ; the house was built in 1828, by John Grindstaff, William Echelberry, James Starrett, Joseph Mc- Lees, Benjamin Lee, John Davis, C. Brady, Jonas Shaver, Sr., John Ward, Peter Clapper, John Frazier, Thomas Smith, Jonathan Smith, Quinton Bain, Frederick Wion, David Selix, Patrick McCully, Samuel Nicholson, John Plucher, and Alexander Tucker.

In 1830, there was a school on Enoch Harlan's place; the teachers were William Worthington, Erastus Phillips, and others. Phillips was a celebrated grammarian: there was a small school in connection with the Blue Rock church, perhaps as early as 1827. The teachers were, Jeremiah Argo, James Durbry, David Emley, Thomas Starrett, and others.

The free school system was being inaugurated, and a small sum had accrued, but not enough to defray the expenses of a school, and an additional tax of sufficient to meet the indebtedness, was levied pro rata on the patrons of the school.

The next school was on Joseph Starrett's place, near Ridgway, or Keifer. This school house was considered a fine affair ; it was built by John Ward, a contractor, in 1833 ; among the teachers were, Nathaniel Carlow, Alexander Tucker, William Hizer, George Briggs, Hannah Starrett and Anna Hale. This school was the parent of the three schools in northeastern Blue Rock, numbered respectively, one, two and six. There were perhaps half a dozen school houses in this township, but no legend or tradition concerning them furnishes the date or place of their existence ; the only tradition is that they were of the primitive log, with puncheon floor and slab seat style, with one end for a fire place, and greased paper for '* window-lights." And the legend goes, '« their first book used to read out of, was the Bible ; with the alphabet pasted on a paddle for the little folks, also used in spelling.'' These were succeeded by Dillsworth's speller and the ''English Reader," followed by the United States Speller, Webster's Speller, The Elementary Speller and the Columbian Orator, as a reader. The standards on mathematics, were Dillworth, Pike and Slocum.

The qualification to teach, was to be able to read write and cipher, in the latter, as far as the double rule of three, inclusive ; and to ask questions in Grammar and Geography. There were, however, those who knew more, indeed were regarded as fine scholars, who engaged in teaching. And in those humble school houses, some of the noblest minds were developed ; some, who have wielded a powerful influence for good in this world, and some who have doubtless gone to sit at the feet of the Master, in the Paradise of God.

In 1880, there were in Blue rock township, nine good frame school houses, in good repair, with modern furniture and the needed appliances, furnished under the free school system. Three of these, to-wit: at Rural Dale, Gaysport, and number six, in northeastern Blue Rock, are regarded as very fine houses. The school houses of to-day, nine in all, have a powerful influence in behalf of education.

Sugar Grove M. E. Church

Sugar Grove M. E. Church had its inception in the class which met at John Grindstaft's house, in 1817. Prominent among those who met there were, Levi Reeves and wife, John Grindstaff and wife, Eli Shearman and wife, Jacob McLain and wife, Jacob Lindsey and wife. In 1826, this class numbered eighty members, perhaps the largest class that ever assembled in that capacity, and too large for the house, so they divided into two classes, of forty members each; one, continued to meet at the same house, with John Ward as class leader; the other, met at the house of Jacob McLain, in Salt Creek township, with Eli Shearman as class leader. The pastors were, Rev. Levi Reeves and old Father Carins, of Wayne township. '' The circuit rider at the time, was Rev. Morris, afterwards a Bishop."' The result of these two classes, was the formation of the Sugar Grove M. E. Church, in Salt Creek township.

Saw Mills

John Trimble built the first saw mill, just below the present village of Rural Dale, in 1820. Samuel Culbertson built the first steam saw mill, on the land now owned by W. E. Bozman, in 1827.

Society Of Friends

The Society of Friends built a meeting house on the land of Enoch Harlan, in 1821. They next built on land owned by Warner Mowhorter. This society, has no organization at this

We are not informed who gathered the little band together, that formed this church; the tradition is, that they met from house to house, and prayed and sang praises together, for some years. This appears to be corroborated by the following narrative: '' Father, Benjamin Lee had given the beautiful piece of ground in connection with this church, for a burying ground, free to everybody as long as taken.care of and used for that purpose. The first death was Emily Lee, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lee; she died in 1822; the second, was Eva Wion, wife ot Frederick Wion, who died December ist, of that year; the third, was Nancy Lee, daughter of Benjamin Lee, who died January 2oth, 1824."

The first Baptist who preached in Blue Rock township, was Rey. Henry Pringle, at the house ot Jesse Johns, in 1822. Rev. George Russell was the second. He preached at the same place on Easter Sunday, in 1823. Rev. Levi Culver was the third. He preached at several places in the neighborhood, when a council was held at the house of John Revenaugh, on the 25th of July, 1828, at which time and place, Blue Rock Baptist Church was organized.

William Echelberry, Frederick Wion, Peter Wion and wife. Benjamin Lee and wife, John C. Guist and wife, Robert Revenaugh and wife, Gleason Brady and wife, Samuel Revenaugh, Catharine Revenaugh, William Roberts, Jane

William Roberts was the first deacon, and his wife, Jane Roberts, was the first person baptized in this society. On the following Sabbath, after the organization, being July 27th, the Lord's Supper was administered for the first time. Soon after this, a log house, thirty by fifty feet, was erected. . This house was used for a church over twenty years.

After Mr. Culver's death, Rev. Enoch Rector was called, as a supply, and continued in that capacity till May, 1840, when Rev. Reuben Burkley was called, who continued to act as pastor until his death, which occurred two years after. Rev. Benjamin Blake was next called, and remained two years, when Rev. Abel Johnson became pastor, May 1, 1844, and officiated two years. The next pastor was Rev. J. B. Sinclair, who was called in June, 1846, and remained with the church about three years.

In January, 1858, Rev. B. Y. Seigfried was called as pastor, who remained one year, then Rev. Thomas Shepherd took charge of the flock. The next pastor was Rev. James Herbert, whose pastorate lasted seven years. '

It was during the incumbency of Rev. Herbert, that the new church was built. It was a frame structure, forty by forty feet square ; commenced in 1854, and finished in 1855.

Lewis Madden was called to the charge of the church in 1859, and continued about one year, when Rev. E. W. Daniels was called, December 1, 1860. W. A. Robinson succeeded Daniels in 1869, followed by Rev. J. W. Dunn. Rev. J. W. Herbert again became pastor,after Dunn ; he being followed by Rev. J. P. Hunter, the present pastor.

Military Record

The liability to do military duty, in case of emergency, was not altogether a figure of speech in early times, as every school boy knows. The first company muStering was done at Chandlersville ; and the first regimental mustering was at Zanesville. The first military organization in Blue Rock, was in 1822, and consisted of about thirty militiamen. The first Captain was Willis John ; the second, Thomas McCoid; the third, Joseph Starrett.

The Blue Rock Riflemen was the next organization, formed in 1835, and composed of fifty able bodied men. Joseph Starrett was their_first Captain ; James Millhouse was First Lieutenant ; Dr. Coverdale, Second Lieutenant. Millhouse succeeded Starrett as Captain. Their uniform was a blue coat, white pants, felt hat, with white plume tipped with red, and green tassel! on the hat. They were not uniformed, however, until Drummer, Roderic Oston - also Drum Major; Fifer,

James Thompson. This company and five others, formed a regiment. The Colonel was Charles Gebant; Major, Joseph Starrett; Adjutant, Noah Grindstaff; Quartermaster, Marshall Stultz; Paymaster, T. Drenon Cooper ; Surgeon, Dr. Forbrush.

Colonel Charles Gebant was killed in the battle of Winchester, Virginia. He was a true soldier, and loyal patriot ; a good disciplinarian and great commmander.

In July, 1863, the rebel leader, John Morgan, invaded Ohio, and,crossing the Muskingum river below the Eagleport dam, passed through the south part of Blue Rock township. This brought the war too near home, and her citizens were made to feel the necessity of doing something to put down the rebellion. Accordingly the cry, **to arms! to arms!" rang out, and on the 5th day of September, the following officers were elected to lead on to victory, or death, the valliant sons of Blue Rock. Captain, Henry S$. Finley ; First Lieutenant, John Craps; Second Lieutenant, John W: Frazier; commissioned September 18, 1863, by Governor Tod. They 'spent a short time in mastering the manual of arms,and were assigned as ''Company E,Ninetyfirst Battalion." Cyrus Reasoner, Lieutenant organization, this company was designated as Company 'I', One Hundred and Sixtieth Regiment Ohio National Guards, Henry S. Finley, Captain; Henry Dellinger, First Lieutenant; Stuart Speer, Second Lieutenant; Cyrus Reasoner, Colonel; and on the i2th of that month were mustered into the United States service to serve one hundreddays. They were equipped, and started for the front on the 13th, and joined General Hunter's command at Cedar Creek, in the Shenandoah Valley ; thence to Woodstock, Martinsburg, Maryland Heights, and the region lying between these places, enduring great fatigue. After wading the Potomac, on the 7th of July, while supporting three pieces of artillery, amid the roar of musketry and cannon, Josiah McLees went down, with a rifle ball through his hips; Captain Finley had his right arm disabled, and many were wounded ; some others, mortally. The regiment did duty on the Heights during the remainder of its term, and returning to Zanesville, was mustered out

The following is the muster roll of Company "*K,"' Ninety-first Battalion, Ohio State Militia, which was organized in Blue Rock township, September 5th, 1863:

The following is the muster roll of Captain Henry S. Finley, Company ''I,'"" One Hundred and Sixtieth O. N. G., which was Mustered at Zanesville, Ohio, for one hundred days.

I certify, on honor, that this-muster roll is correct, and that the men have been duly mustered in accordance with the mustering regulations, for the period of one hundred days.

Improved Stock

For many years the farmers of Blue Rock township paid their chief attention to the culture of wheat, as the staple article of export, but began to give some attention to improved breeds of stock. The first thoroughbreds were a_ pair of Durham cattle, introduced by John Trimble, in 1828. This was a diversion, however, and slowly followed. Mr. Trimble was followed by S. McCune, and their joint efforts soon made a decided impression on the improved stock of the township. James McCune (son of Samuel) now possesses one of the finest herds of thoroughbred stock to be seen in southeastern Ohio.

Wool Growing

Wool growing, however, is the principal business, all other interests giving way toit. The improvement in sheep commenced about 1845, by Messrs. Talley, Trimble,.and others, introducing French Merinos from Vermont; they brought fifty head. J. B. Millhouse, and others, introduced the Spanish Merinos, and from these efforts a great revolution has taken place. Wilkes E. Bozeman has given the wool growing interest a fresh impetus by his zeal and success in the business.

Fruit Agricultural Retrospect

time of wooden mould-board plows, instead of a few short years, a vast period of time; indeed, it seems almost incredible that the pioneers of this region had to depend on such rude implements, when now every device for the most successful agriculture, with the least outlay of force, is available by every one. The important strides of improvement caused the farmer to unite with his neighbor, for fear his neighbor would know the most, and hence, to secure this, they formed the Agricultural Society, in the year 1858. E., J. Trimble was President, and E. H. Talley, Secretary and Treasurer. They held the first fair on the grounds of W. T. Talley. The second fair was held on James Trimble's place ; and the third at James Findley's, on the river bottom.

Bethlehem

Bethlehem M. E. Church is situated on George Stewart's land, who gave also a beautiful site for a graveyard. The graveyard was inaugurated before the church, by the burial of Mrs. Catharine Wear, who died in 1828. Vhe church was not built until 1830. The members at this time were: Jeremiah Argo, and wife, Samuel Nichvlson, and wife, Roderick Oston, and wife, John Coverdale, and wife, Michael E. White, and wife, '' Father' Winrod, and wife. Jeremiah Argo was a licensed class-leader, and exhorter.

Radical Methodist Church

This was the third church formed in the township, and located on land owned by William Betts. The prominent members were William Betts, and wife, Dr. Coverdale, and wite, Peter Clapper, and wife, Hiram Sherman, and wife, Henry Crawford, and wife, Margaret Barber, and daughter, and Elizabeth Gibbons. Dr. Coverdale was exhorter, and William. Betts was classleader. The first regular preachers, were: Rev's. Linder and Whitney. This church was moved to a site on Henry Crawford's land, and a good frame church erected ; this house is there

Temperance Lecturer

John W. Bear was the first temperance lecturer in Blue Rock. His early education had been neglected, and his youth spent at the forge ; with such opportunities, we do not find the power derived from mental culture associated ; and yet he had a spark of nature's fire that made him a power on the platform, which he soon discovered, and forsook his anvil for the forum. As a temperance lecturer he was very successful, that is, in drawing houses, but not being himself tem- perate he weakened his efforts by his inconsistency. Although he was 'styled a temperance lecturer, his attention was mainly drawn to politics, and, as ''a stumper,"' the Backs e Blacksmith was sought after by office seekers. He was born in Pennsylvania, and came here in an early day and worked at his trade, at which he was counted a skilled workman. It is said of him, after he took the platform, that he believed in '' moral suasion," and a favoite saying with him was, ''wean the calves and the cows will go dry themselves."' Politically, he was a Democrat, until after hearing noted speakers at the convention that met at Columbus, in 1840, and nominated William Henry Harrison as the Whig candidate for President of the United States, at which time he..became a Whig, and to illustrate his change of mind he turned his coat inside out, and appeared on the platform, declaring his change in political sentiment, and it is said he ' made one of the ablest speeches of the Convention. '*He told them why the West should . nominaté General Harrison for President, and elect him, and they believed him; he told them he was the celebrated Buckeye Blacksmith from 'Blue Rock,' and he was loudly cheered. And after stumping the State of Ohio, under appointment of the Central Committee, he was sent to.

Pennsylvania, his native State, where immense crowds gathered to hear him, and so great was his power of oratory that his opponents said, 'this is no illiterate man, but a well educated man passing himself off for a Buckeye Blacksmith ;' whereupon, Bear replied, 'to-morrow, at the town I speak at, bring on my stand or forum, a full set of blacksmith's tools, such as a good blacksmith would use, and I will turn and finish a complete horse shoe at one heat, ready for driving, which generally takes two heats, or more.' The crowds came the next day to see the Buckeye Blacksmith, who was on hand, and completed the shoe with one heat, as he had said, and cast it down before them to look at, while it was still red hot!"

The tide in the affairs of men is not always to the haven of prosperity and safety, and John Bear, through intemperance, passed into obscurity.

Representative Men

This might include almost every man who has lived in Blue Rock township, but the caption is used to designate those who served in Legislative Halls.

Justices Of The Peace

service, was promoted to be County Commissioner, which responsible position he held two terms. He was succeeded by Jonathan B. Millhouse, who served as Commissioner two terms, and was succeeded by Robert Silvey, Jr., who served two terms, and passed into the Treasurer's office, which he held two terms. There were no ''third termers'"' among them.

Postmaster Rockville Baptist Church

Rockville Baptist Church was organized on the thirteenth day of August, 1844, under the shade of a large forest oak, on the summit of the hill south of Rockville, near where the present meeting-house stands.

The members composing the Council called for its organization, were from Blue Rock, Windsor, Rich Hill, Bristol, and Four Mile, churches. The sermon was preached by Rev. William Stone, of Columbiana county, Ohio, from Daniel xliv, 22, after which sixteen persons with letters of dismissal from Blue Rock Church, were duly organized into a separate church.

The names of these members were as tollows : James and Elizabeth Burris, John and Lorenzo Gossage, George Bird, Jesse and Joanna John, Sarah Scott, Letitia John, Eleanor Burris, Maria Scott, Sarah Harlan, Phebe Briggs, Rebecca Frame, and Hannah Bird.

Rev. Abel Johnson concluded his ministry the first Sabbath in October, 1850. During his pastorate, the church attained its maximum membership - one hundred and nineteen.

Rev. J. Chambers acted as a supply for a short time, and, on the 6th of April, 1851, Rev. T. M. Erwin was called to the pastorate, and officiated until May 15th, 1857, when Rev. J. Herbert was called, who continued until June 25th, 1859.

June 25th, 1870, Rev. J. Herbert was called, as a supply, and remained until June 24th, 1871, when Rey. W. A. Robinson was called to the pastorate, and resigned, February 25th, 1873.

Eight Deacons have been chosen, as follows : Caleb Hall, George Bird, Thompson Robinson, Isaac Peairs, James Trimble, William Roberts, and T. L. Elwell. The four latter are the present Deacons. James Trimble, Treasurer. T. L. Elwell has been licensed to preach, and is the present Superintendent of the Sabbath School.

Sons Of Temperance Rural Dale

This village is situated on the southwest quarter of section twenty-six, on land owned by Samuel Millhouse in 1828, and was laid out by J. B. Millhouse in 1854; most of the houses having been built previously, the first one by George Gibbons as long ago as 1816. sThis building is still there.

The name of the village was originally Rockville, but was changed to Rural Dale at the time the postoffice was established there. The first store at this place was opened by Briggs & Kearns in 1836, and the first tavern about the same time, by William Kirk. The village contains two stores, one wagon shop, one blacksmith shop, one shoe shop, one saloon, a church,

This beautiful hamlet is situated on the northeast quarter of section eleven. When it was laid out it was called Ridgeway, and bore that name until the Postmaster General found the inhabitants wanted a postoffice, and, in order to avoid confusion in mail matters, he recommended them to change the name. The postoffice being inaugurated, the name was changed to its present name, in honor of General Kiefer; and it is altogether likely that it will prove worthy of the promotion to postal honers, and of the new name. ''Great o2ks from little acorns grow."'

Oil Development

Mr. J. J. Starrett informs us that the spring to _ which the early settlers resorted, for oil, was on William Smith's land, on Kent'srun. They secured the oil, which floated on the surface of the water, by brushing it into a vessel, with a feather. This oil was obtained for home use. It was in this run that Benjamin Crane & Co. first bored for oil, in 1860. They struck oil, but got their tools fast, and had to leave them, and they are there to this day.

The oil excitement on Man's Fork creek was in 1866. Here, also, was the famous Woodbury well, yielding, it is said, a hundred barrels per day. There were other wells - the Gray Eagle. Toquette, Pee Wee, California, and Clover Creek - yielding from twenty-five to seventy-five barrels of oil per day. Prices for land were wild. The Border farm sold for fifty thousand dollars. Father Peyton sold fourteen acres of ground for fourteen thousand dollars. in cash. Business points sprang into existence ; trade was lively ; work, abundant; wages, good; and money, plenty. A thousand men scattered over our hills and dales, and the ring of a hundred drills could be heard atonce. A large, wooden tavern was built, for the accommodation of boarders: a saloon and a grocery were opened, and everything seemed moving. But the bubble burst when the oil was found to be too light to pay for getting and preparing for use, and the excitement died out, as the trade failed. There are, however, several companies operating for oil at this time, on Kent's run and Man's Fork creek - the Carr Bros., Gorby, Tally & Co., Maher & Co., and others. Abram Linn has never abandoned his oil well, but pumped it, and made it pay, and, more than anyone else, has kept the oil trade alive.

"'As early as 1819, oil was taken from a spring by Martin Smith, on his farm, located in the northeast corner of Blue Rock township, in quantities of a gallon ata time, daily. It was then used for medical purposes, and people came from a distance to get it. This was the first natural oil spring discovered in America. The first oil well drilled in this country was on Smith's farm, in 1861, and was located near the oil spring alluded to. The second development was made in January, 1866, on the farm now known as Nathaniel McDonald's, situated forty-five degrees west of south from Smith's spring (in this township) ; here oil was struck at a depth of one hundred and eighteen feet, that produced sixty barrels per day for six months. This was known as the Woodberry well. A short time after this, a well was located a half a mile north, and east of this, on the Rees Fox farm, and after being drilled seventy-eight feet, a column of oil and water, four and one-half inches in diameter gushed forth, spurting into the air in a column 'seventy-five feet high, which continued with great force, and a noise that could be heard half a mile distant, for many days; this was known as the Cagua well.

"The next important well was on the Fred. Shaver farm, three-quarters of a mile northeast from the Cagua well. Oil was found at the depth of one hundred feet, and the pumps put to work, which, to the surprise'of the owners, yielded two hundred and forty barrels per day.

"The excitement consequent on these wonderful discoveries was intense, and thousands of dollars changed hands daily. Men seemed unable to buy or lease land fast enough, even at the in- flated price of $1,000 per acre. The royalty to land owners sold for fabulous sums. Shipment was made to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the nearest point for refining, and the report came back that the oil contained so little illuminating property (only thirty per cent. of carbon oil) that they could not compete with the Pennsylvania oil; so that all wells producing less than five barrels per day were then abandoned ; while large wells were paying handsomely, even at the low price; but their production failed shortly after the abandonment of the small wells; or rather, the entire business was reduced to two wells, which were operated steadily till the spring of 1878. Why this great flow should cease was an exciting inquiry. The answer is found that the oil being found in ''oil sand,' was not permanent, because the sand was not penetrated deep enough, or the oil sand was not deep enough. The theory of oil men, in Pennsylvania, is that the oil is the product of what is termed 'oil sand,' in certain quantities. The first wells in Muskingum County penetrated the oil sand but a few inches; the second wells were drilled standing full of surface water; while the oil wells in Pennsylvania are drilléd through the oil sand. The surface water is excluded from the well while drilling, by the use of wrought iron casing, and the torpedoes of nitro-glycerine are exploded in the body of the oil sand. The chief cause of failure in Muskingum county, was the entire absence of a knowledge of oil sand. They believed that they had found the oil in a tight rock, encased in a crevice, and invariably stopped drilling when the oil was first reached. It is now settled by practical demonstation, and precedent, that the oil filters through a porous sand rock ; and to produce it in piven time, the oil sand must be found in sufficient thickness, drilled through, and then properly treated. This theory is sustained by the ''Oil City Derrick," a paper of well known sagacity and veracity, and devoted to the oil interests ; vide a few quotations :

'*CLINTONVILLE, Pa., March 1, 1879. Special to 0il City Derrick by Western Union Telegraph. "'Surrena No. 2. - We got through the sand this evening; had eighteen feet of nice sand; the hole is full of wil; she made one small flow this afternoon ; it has scarcely any third sand gas; she will probably be a forty barrel well."

'Painter & Tack's well, No. 4, on their lease just south of town, is about thirty feet in the sand. It will make one hundred and fifty barrels."'

'Lockhart & Archibald struck on Rixford's farm, Saturday, and are now forty-seven feet in the sand, and flowing through the casing. It will start at fifty barrels or more." that this theory is maintained by statistics. The observations made from the ''Derrick'' statistics are: 'Fifty feet of sand is a deep sand ; twentyfive feet is a medium sand; fifteen feet of sand produces oil in paying quantities. And where there is less than eleven feet of sand, oil is not produced in paying quantities."

«'The second and last reason for the short life of the Blue Rock wells, is found in this, that when the non-paying wells were abandoned, the tubing or pumps were removed in a manner that permitted the surface water to flood them, and thus drive the oil from its original locality to a point not penetrated by the drill ;and the owners of the wells being inexperienced as to the cause of the loss,felt compelled to abandon their wells."

In this abandoned condition the territory remained, with the exception of two wells, which yielded steadily in paying quantities for twelve years, when, in 1878, William M. Carr, a gentleman of nine years experience in the great oil fields of Pennsylvania, visited this region and examined the condition, and came to the conclusion that an oil belt one mile wide. and ten miles long, existed in Muskingum County, at about one hundred feet below the earth's surface. So confident was he, that he returned to Pennsylvania and formed the company known as 'The Carr Oil Company," of Muskingum County, Ohio, composed of William M., H. B., and F. A. Carr, all practical operators, with William M. Carr as manager. They first secured a small tract of land, and drilled one well in search of the great requisite, ''oil sand," which they found -equal to any oil sand in Pennsylvania, and of sufficient quantity, if practically treated, to guarantee a large and lasting production. The company then secured all the territory within their detined lines, within a period of eighteen months, during which, William T. Ford, George W. Beatty, Gilbert Beatty, William Dickinson, F. Maher, William Thatcher, and _ several other enterprising capitalists, connected themselves with the enterprise. The company then drilling tools, and are engaged in developing the belt, and feel sanguine their wells will produce oil that will attract capitalists from our great cities. to Muskingum County. And that the quality of oil will enable them to find a ready sale, at remunerative prices.

Telegraph Line

The telegraph line, from Zanesville to McConnellsville, was erected in 1867, but the wire being galvanized, it went down, and was rebuilt in 1880. An office was established in Gaysport, . in December, 1877, and is still nominally in opertion, but very little business is transacted in it.

Patrons Of Husbandry Independent Qrder Of Odd Fellows

A few thoughts in regard to the institution and progress of Rural Lodge, No.157,1.O. O-F., by one who has followed its fortunes through sunshine and storm for the last twenty-four years, may not, I hope, be void of interest to its members.

At a session of the Grand Lodge, held at Cincinnati, Ohio, in February, 1850, Brethren J. P. Smith, W. A. Hawley, J. B. Milhous, Abram Morrison and C. H. Trimble, made application for, and were granted, a Charter for Rural Lodge, and on June 13th, of the same year, the Lodge was instituted by the then acting Grand Master, William C. Earl, assisted by brethren from Muskingum, Moxahala, and Valley Lodges.. Among the prominent ones, the writer remembers, with warmth of feeling, Bros. Thos. Durban, Silvers Porter and L. Brenholts, of Zanesville ; James Gaylord, J. C. Stone and others, of Valley Lodge.

The Charter members had only advanced as far as the Second Degree, consequently the third, fourth and fifth Degrees had to be conferred at the time of the institution of the Lodge. The Lodge was instituted and declared ready for work, when the following brethren were elected and installed as officers, for the first term:

There was received, by initiation, at the first meeting, eight members, making the total number of members at the close of the first working session of the Lodge, thirteen.

The brethren went to work with a will. The first term was continued until the first meeting in January, at which time it had increased to twenty members ; there having been received by initiation, fourteen, on card, one, and withdrawn by card, one.

There was received, by initiation, during this term, sixteen; and on card, one; there being none withdrawn, dismissed by card or expelled. The total number of members at its close was thirty-seven.

We find that the percentage to the Grand Lodge, for the previous term, was $18.27. During the term ending January Ist, 1852, there were added to the membership of the Lodge, by initiation, nine, and on card, three, making the total additions, twelve.

Brother Smith was the first Permanent Secretary whom the Lodge elected. We here have proof of the willingness of the brethren to work as Secretary, the Lodge numbering fifty members before any Permanent Secretary was elected, the Recording Secretary doing all the work of both offices, for the honor of passing the chairs. Brother Silvers Porter was District Deputy for the years 1851 and 1852, and-installed the above officers. It was at this time that the Rebekah Degree was introduced into the Lodge, and during this term, was conferred on the greater part of the brethren, and also, several of the sisters were introduced into the Lodge. April 27th, cards were granted to Bros. Casey and

By reference to the minutes we find that the chair was filled at every regular meeting during the term, and also at three special meetings, called for the purpose of conferring the Degree of Rebekah.

June 13th, of this year, the Lodge took possession of the hall which it now occupies, the building having been erected by brother J. B. Milhous, and publicly dedicated to,the use of the Order. They also provided themselves with all the emblems necessary for a working Lodge. The initlations were three. It was during this term that brother W. A. Hawley was elected Representative to the Grand Lodge of Ohio.

During this term, there was nothing of especial interest transpired in the Lodge, although the membership had increased to about seventy. There were added tothe Lodge, by initiation, nine ; died, one.

During the week succeeding the election of officers for this term a gloom was cast over the Lodge, occasioned by the death of Brother G. W. Harlan, the Noble Grand elect. The resolutions adopted by the Lodge demonstrate the fact that he was held in the highest esteem by the members of the Fraternity, and also by the community generally. January ioth, Brother C. H. Trimble was elected to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Brother Harlan.

The Lodge moved along during this term without anything particularly interesting occuring, the additions being, by initiation, eight ; withdrawn by card, one; died, one.

It-was during this term, that a full set of emblems were procured, those which are now used by the Lodge. We were called upon to part with Brother William A. Hawley, one of the charter members, during this term; he having applied for, and received, a card of dismissal.

The officers for the term beginning July, 1858, were installed by Brother George Holliday, of Valley Lodge, who was at, that time, District Deputy Grand Master. There were chosen for officers the following members :

During this term cards were granted to six Brothers, to form a Lodge at High Hill; this being the third Lodge which has been formed from Rural.

From this date the names of the Noble Grands are given, each having passed to the chair in the regular way: Jacob Rutledge, G. W. White, Samuel McCune, A. N. Jewett, A. R. Starrett, W. S. Harlan, J. B. Milhous, Jos. Reed, F. Cooper, Joseph Osborn, Joseph P. White, A. G. Harlan, E. W. Daniels, Costen Betz, J. T. Matchett, T. L. Elwell, C. C. Frazier, L. C. Betz. During this term, January, 1871, the Lodge purchased a full set of officer's regalia, at a cost of $110. N. G's., continued : Edward Miller, Joseph E. Peyton, James A.

'We tind that there have been taken into.the Lodge by initiation about one hundred and sixty members, and quite a number on card. Of this number twelve have died, some have left the Order, and many have withdrawn by card and removed to other places.

We have furnished charter members for the institution of four Lodges, viz.: Cumberland, Wood Grove, High Hill, and Taylorsville. We call to recollection the following who have been removed from us by death: benefits amounting to near $1,500. The Lodge has also paid funeral benefits amounting to three hundred dollars, making the aggregate donations and benefits amount to about $2,800. There were two brothers who were not entitled to benefits at the time of their death, on account of non-payment of dues.

_ J. H.White, Fifth Degree ; withdrawn by card. Peter Coss, Second Degree; dropped. Bishop D. Stahl, Second Degree ; dropped. R. E.White, Fifth Degree ; withdrawn by card. Edward Miller, P. G.; remains a member.

S.C. Lindsay, Fifth Degree; withdrawn by card. Daniel Meloy, Fifth Degree ; remains a member. N.S. Way, Fourth Degree ; dropped. James A. Woodburn, P. G.; remains a member. John Kennedy, Initiate ; withdrawn from Order. une Peyton, Fifth Degree; withdrawn by card. C. C. Frazier, P. G.; withdrawn by card. L. C. Betts, P..G. ; remains a member. T. G. Lawrence, Second Degree ;, withdrawn by card. Joseph E. Peyton, P. G.; remains a member. E. H. Daw, Fifth Degree ; remains a member. Harry Echelberry, Second Degree; remains a member. b a 8 ag Peyton, Initiate ; withdrawn by card. Milton F. Ward, Fifth Degree; remains a member. T. C. Gander, Initiate ; withdrawn by card. a Hunter Hough, Fifth Degree ; remains a memer. A. M. Frazier, Second Degree; dropped. B. V. Woodburn, P. G.; remains a member. Gilbert Newell, Fifth Degree ; remains a member. Christian Hock, Fourth Degree; withdrawn by card. 7 Pid aey Wagstaff, Fifth Degree ; withdrawn by card. Lewis H. Dutro, Fifth Degree; remains a member. George W. Gander, Fourth Degree; withdrawn by card. Orlando Ethell, Initiate; withdrawn by card. Enoch Harlan, P. G. ; remains a member. William H. Ethell, Fifth Degree; remains a member. James H. Gander, Third Degree; remains a member. W. S. Parker, P. G.; remains a member. Zachariah Riley, Second Degree; withdrawn by card. N.A. Smith, Fifth Degree ; remains a member. A. Linn, P. G.; remains a member. Jacob Hall, Second Degree; withdrawn by card. James Beardsley, Initiate ; withdrawn by card. T. C. Hatfield, Fifth Degree; withdrawn by cardi" ¥ J. H. Harlan, N. G.; remains a member. S..L. Haworth, V. G.; remains a member. Warren Pitts, Second Degree; withdrawn by card. Wt A. Robinson, Fifth Degree ; withdrawn by card.

bought the land of the Ayers heirs, and laid out the town, March 2oth, 1880, naming it for himself. It contains two stores, one hotel, one steam gristmill, one blacksmith shop, one grocery, and a postoffice. The population is about ninety inhabitants.

Historical Society

The Historical Society, formed for the purpose of aiding in the compilation of the History) of Blue Rock Township, and which furnished the data herein contained, also report that the following persons live on the farms on which they were born, in this township: Samuel Dutro, T. N. Pyle, H. S. Finley, D. Howard Proctor, Howard Osborn, James Shilling, William Echelberry, Caleb H. Trimble, Miss Mary Lee, Miss |