Burton Township (part 5 of 7)

In 1835, he entered Lane Seminary, where he studied theology under Doctor Lyman Beecher for two years. Returning to Burton in 1837, he was there licensed and preached his first sermon. In the same year he was ordained and installed pastor of the Congregational church at Morgan, Ashtabula county. Here he remained two and a half years, preaching and laboring with satisfaction and success, and forming such intimate associations, as only to be severed with great reluctance to both pastor and people, when he left there for a wider and more important field of labor. The newly organized Second Presbyterian church at Columbus, Ohio, was looking for a pastor, and upon the recommendation of the venerable Doctor Beecher, young Hitchcock was invited to its charge. This call was accepted, he removing his family to that point, by way of the Oljio canal, in July, 1840. Coming into the pastorate of this church when not twentyseven years old, he continued in its service for fifteen years, laboring with great zeal and success. A fine building was erected, and so great was the interest in spiritual affairs attending his ministry; so large were the accessions to the membership of the church, and so general was the attendance upon its ministrations, that this soon proved inadequate. A large addition was required and made to it, which only temporarily answered the demand.

By his aid a Congregational church was organized out of the surplus members of his own church. Into this new organization, acting upon his advice and by his request, entered a number of the strongest, most active and effective members of his church, he feeling that by a division of forces more could be accomplished than in one numerous, wealthy church, in which many members, who elsewhere might be useful, here would be lost sight of. This church, now the Broad street Congregational church, he succeeded in placing upon a strong foundation, while continuing to increase and strengthen his own organization. By his ability, energy, and unaffected piety, he won for himself a leading place among the clergy of central Ohio, and attracted to his church strangers from all parts. Although many years have passed, he is still remembered with reverence and affection by numbers of members in both of these churches and congregations. He is also remembered in the city of Columbus, as one of her pastors who, always actively at work in his own appropriate field, was ever ready to do what in him lay to advance the best interests of the community and city in which he lived.

In May, 1855, he resigned his pastorate, having been chosen president of Western Reserve College, at Hudson, Ohio, and was inaugurated as such July 1 2th of that year. In assuming charge of this institution, he undertook a work of very great labor and difficulty. The college was deeply involved. Its financial embarrassment was so great as to prevent prosperity and threaten its downfall. In every way the prospect was most discouraging. To the work before him, with his usual activity and zeal, he devoted his entire time and means. In his vocabulary there was no such word as "fail." Having left a pleasant home, admiring friends, and a large, loving, efficient church, in obedience to what he deemed the call of duty, he determined the sacrifice should not be in vain, and success crowned his efforts. His labors were multifarious. He had to raise, collect, invest and superintend the funds of the college. During term time he preached twice in the chapel each Sabbath, and taught in natural theology and evidences of Christianity. Besides these, he was subject to incessant calls to perform ministerial labors of every description, to which he always responded when time and strength would permit. In fact, he never seemed to hesitate from fear of overtaxing the latter, but was ever ready to "spend and be spent" in whatever promised good to the institution and the church. As the result of his labors, all the incumbrances of the college were removed, and over one hundred and seventy-five thousand dollars were added to the permanent endowment fund. The grade of scholarship in the college was kept up to its high standard, and in the year 1869-70 the number of students was larger than ever before. Under his administration of its affairs, one hundred and forty-seven young men completed their college course, and were graduated by him.

In the autumn of 1867, under his constant labors and the severe strain upon his not over robust constitution, his health gave indications of breaking down. The necessity of rest became apparent, and for this purpose the winter following was spent in the south of Europe and England. In June, 1868, he returned, with health apparently much improved. Resuming his college work with the old vigor and courage, it was not long before the discovery was made that the improvement v^s but apparent and temporary. He could no longer perform the duties of the position with the old success. By his constant and untiringlabors his constitution had been undermined, and the irresistible result could only be temporarily postponed. Two years after his return he desired to resign, and seek some easier field of labor, but a suitable person as successor being difficult to obtain, he was induced to remain awhile longer. A year subsequent to this, he found it absolutely necessary to surrender the responsibility of the presidency, but continued actively engaged, in the other departments of his old work. Two years more were spent in this manner, when, in the latter part of June, 1873, he was called upon to solemenize a marriage in the neighboring town of Atwater. On returning home in the evening, he took to his bed, and never rose again. It was just preceding the annual commencement exercises of the college, and he was very anxious to preach the baccalaureate sermon, for which he had prepared, but was unable to do so. His decline was rapid, and, after a few days, his illness terminated in death, July 6th, 1873. He fell with the harness on, at the post of duty. To some it seems, his life was cut off in the midst of usefulness, but his work was yvell done. His was a full and well-rounded life. Had he earlier yieftled to the warnings of failing health and waning strength, he perhaps might have spent many years of usefulness in some field of less wearing labor. As it was, he fully illustrated the truth so often spoken by him, " That it is better to wear out than rust out."

Whether considered as a minister of the Gospel, president of a college, or a teacher, his abilities were remarkable. As a financial manager he had few equals. This was shown by his establishing two large churches in Columbus, on a sound foundation, and by bringing the Western Reserve College out of the embarassments which had well nigh wrrecked it, and placing it upon a sound financial basis. As a college executive he had the rare faculty of being able to maintain strict discipline, and, at the same time, retain the sincere and unqualified respect and affection of the students, who loved him as a kind father. As a Christian, he was earnest, active and efficient, commandii^ the respect and admiration of all, whatever might be their religious belief. Asa man, naturally hasty and nervous, he acquired complete control over himself, so that nothing could disturb his equanimity. Patient, modest, self-sacrificing, faithful, he was beloved by all who knew him, and had not a single enemy. Few living so long, and for so many years holding important positions like his, could have had such a tribute paid to their character.

He was married December 20, 1837, to Clarissa M., daughter of Stephen Ford, and granddaughter of John Ford, elsewhere mentioned. This union proved a happy one, she being the loving companion and sympathetic sharer of his life and labors. Especially was her influence largely felt during his connection with the college, in making it pleasant for, and influencing and shaping the character of the boys and young men in that institution. She survived him a number of years, having recently deceased. Of this marriage there reipain of a large family, five children, three sons and two daughters. One of the latter is living at Hudson, the wife of one of the professors. The two younger sons, are studying in the college their father labored so long and effectually to place upon a firm basis, while the eldest son and second living daughter, are residing at Michigan City, Indiana.

Peter Hitchcock

This gentleman, known during the life of his father as Peter Hitchcock, jr., was the third, and youngest, son of the late Chief Justice and Nabby Hitchcock. He was born in Burton, Geauga county, Ohio, January 16, 1818, and hasalwayi resided on the farm where he first saw the light.

The Hitchcock's are a remarkable strain of men, and one turns ffora the meagre sketches of the father, Peter, and the elder brother, Reuben, given in the Messrs. Williams' book of Geauga and Lake counties, with disappointment and regret. There is not the slightest reference to the ancestry of the family, save that the elder judge's father was unable to aid him in securing his education, nor is there the scantiest mention of the female portion of the family. Such men do not spring from accidents, and it is no violation of the reserve due to women, to give some account of the mothers who bore them. I trust that the history of Burton, to which this is appended, written from the bosom of abundant memory and tradition, will supply those omissions which the scanty data before me do not furnish the means of doing. This is due to the subjects of these sketches, and the noble women to whom they are so much indebted.

At the time of the birth of the junior Peter, Ohio was still the west, and Geauga county quite a wilderness. Burton had been settled 20 yeajj. Troy was still a part of the township. Claridon was then called Burlington, and was severed from it the year before, as was Newbury, and many other townships. Montville received its first settlers only three years before, and Russell her first a few months after his birth. His father, at that time, represented a large portion of the State in Congress, and was elected to his first term on the bench of the supreme court the year following. Burton, one of the oldest settled townships of the Reserve, had passed quite through the wilderness, and the Hitchcocks had escaped the straits and pressure of pioneer life. The childhood, boyhood, and youth of the younger son, was surrounded with the healthy, bracing atmosphere, with all the habits of industry, thrift, and prudence, of an intelligent and enterprising New England family, and community, transplanted into the freer woods and on to the more fertile soil of the west. It was a family of education, redq^nt of the religious faith and training of the puritans, the traces of which often become indelible lines of character. Even the youngest boy in such a family, with such surroundings, was in little danger of becoming a spoilt child. Slight, lithe, active, spirited, adventurous, with abounding good nature, full of fun and frolic, he could not fail of being a general favorite, nor did he ever quite outgrow this pleasant peril.

He commenced going to school at three. Homer Goodwin brought tobacco to school. He begged it, chewed, and was laid terribly sick across the end of a slab bench, never afterwards using the vile stuff. His education was finished, so far as schools are concerned, in "the old academy," at twelve. Considering that his father and elder brothers were graduates of Yale, this seems a little remarkable. It arose from no lack of aptitude for study. In this he was quick and precocious, and would certainly have held his own in Yale, and succeeded m any profession. That was not his bent. His father was away. His brothers were pursuing their professions elsewhere. Here was his mother, his sisters, his beautiful home, the free, delightful, stimulating life of the farm, of cattle and horses, fields, woods, birds, spring, summer, and sunshine. He chose them, and chose wisely, and his father wisely indulged him in his choice. bateb when his elder brother, oppressed with overwork, would have gladly received him to the law and taken him to his side, he preferred his farm life. There is much in this domestic home life of Mr. Hitchcook, that presents many interesting features and pleasant pictures, which the necessary limits of this sketcn

At the age of twenty-three, on the 8th of February, 1841, he was united in -narriage with Miss Eliza Ann Cook, third daughter of Hiram Cook, of Burton, a fresh, lovely, and very interesting young lady of that day. The union is to be esteemed happy and fortunate. They became the parents of four children, three of whom are still living. Reuben Augustus, something after the pattern of his grandfather, in mold of body and mind, is now the managing head of the large business house of J. S. Ford, Johnson & Co., in Chicago. Ann Cynthia, the only daughter, and a younger brother, Herbert Witter, remain at home with the family. Charles Cook, entering the service in 1862, was, just before his eighteenth birthday, instantly killed in the battle of Perrysville.

Burton was a place in which the old military spirit kept alive by the memories of the Revolution and the war of 1812, was the last to die out. As soon as Peter, jr., was of military age, he became a member of Colonel H. H. Ford's "Geauga Guards," handsomely uniformed in "Kentucky grey," and a thoroughly drilled company. At twenty-four he became the captain ot the same company, commissioned by Thomas Corwin, commanding it for ten years thereafter.

In May, 1862, he was mainly instrumental in organizing the Geauga Blues, of whicl^ Governor Tod commissioned him captain. This was kept alive for any emergency. One arose in 1864, and it was called into active service by Governor Brough, and saw its share of the 100 days service. It became a part of the 171st Regt. O. N. G., was at Johnson's Island a part of the time. In its ranks were some of the best men of the county, some of whom, like their commander, were then past military age.

It is needless to say that Mr. H. was one of the most ardent and active patriots. He spent his time, used his wide influence, and freely his means, in securing and forwarding soldiers to the field. Gen. Hazen recognized his active labor and influence in the formation of the 41st Ohio, in 1861, and attributed to him more than any other man, the numerous enlistments that so quickly filled the regiment, and early made it ready for the field. He declined positions of rank and honor, and his labors under the war governors of Ohio were almost gratuitous. He was appointed, by Gov. Tod, quartermaster in tl^ 1st Ohio colored regiment, and would gladly have gone out in that service, but was prevented by paramount duties at home. From the time of the first commission by Corwin he held some position, military or civil, until the last issued by Gov. Hayes, in i877-

In 1846 Mr. Hitchcock was elected a justice of the peace, and re-elected till he held the office 18 consecutive years. With all his family and their relations, the Fords, Cooks, and others, he was an ardent Whig, and his first remembered speech, was in the memorable canvass of 1840. This was on the return of a large delegation from one of the great mass conventions held at Ravenna, and was delivered from the platform of a four-horse wagon, in front of Pinney's tavern and brought out the party huzzas. This year his first vote for president was cast for Harrison. In 1849 he was the regular Whig candidate for representative, against A. G. Riddle, the Free-soil nominee. It has been sai^ that Mr. H. was defeated by a coalition between the Free-soilers and Democrats. It is true, the Democrats of Geauga spontaneously nominated Mr. R., but the majority against Mr. H. was considerably more than the whole Democratic vote. It is probably true that Mr. Hitchcock ran ahead of his ticket on that occasion, and was personally always a very popular man.

He remained a Whig until the formation of the Republican party. . He was with great unanimity placed in nomination for the house of representatives in 1857, and elected, and re-elected in 1859. In 1861, he was by election trans- ferred to the Senate. He served again in the House in 1866-67, and was returned for 1870-71. He was elected to the constitutional convention, which sat through two sessions in Cincinnati in 1873-74, and was again elected to the House of 1876-77, and re-elected for 1878-79, and again chosen to the Senate of 1880.

Doubtless, Mr. Hitchcock, upon his entrance into the House, was remembered as the son of his father. No mere name, however, could carry any man and sustain him in the career so successfully pursued by Mr. Hitchcock, and his fellow-members, and the State, soon came to understand that the still young, and slightly-formed farmer, was there on his own account, and on his own merit. Modest, with pleasing manners, well informed, active, fully alive to his duties, of strong, quick mind, he soon came to be known and trusted as one of the most intelligent, useful, and reliable men of the House. One of the most unassuming of men, he gained nothing by seeming or pretense, and what he gained he never lost. Naturally fluent, he becarrie a ready debater and good speaker. Though not a lawyer, his appreciative readiness soon enabled him to master the rules of the House, and when Mr. Speaker Parsons resigned the chair, in 1861, Mr. Hitchcock was elected speaker, a great and deserved compliment to his character and standing, He was afterwards often called to the chair, was twice Speaker pro tern, of the House, and also president of the Senate, pr^ tem. In both houses, and while a member of the constitutional convention, he occupied prominent places on important committees, and was chairman of the committee on finance, and came to be known as one of the ablest, most useful and reliable legislators of the State.

Among the prominent matters before legislature in his time, there was the proposed amendment to the constitution, conferring the right of suffrage upon men of African blood. As the parties were then balanced, and power distributed, the success of the measure was one of grave difficulty and doubt Mr. Hitchcock was the recognized leader of his party, knew the men well, and all the forces to be met, conciliated and used. The result shows, in a general way, his success. It was one of those struggles and successses, however, which few can appreciate, for few can ever understand the difficulties to be met and overcome. Possessed^ superior diplomatic ability, few men are better calculated to skillfully handle such a problem.

In the debates of the Ohio constitutional convention, in 1873-74, upon the question of female suffrage, he said: "Convince me that the majority of the women of the State desire the ballot, and upon my part there would be no hesitation. Say what you may, it is nevertheless true, that in conferring suffrage you impose weighty responsibilities. They cannot be thrown off, but must be discharged. By neglecting to vote no one is relieved from responsibility. Give to woman the ballot, and all women, not alone those who desire it, but all women throughout the State, will be held responsible for its use. All persons and all parties will call upon them to vote, and from the very necessity of the case, they will be forced to do it. In determing my own course, it is sufficient to be thoroughly persuaded that a very large majority of the women of Ohio, are found m oppositio% to this proposition. While not fearing evil to the body politic, from conferring suffrage upon woman; neither do I fear its degrading influence upon herself. My confidence in her ability to discharge this great responsibility, » imposed upon her, in a judicious manner, preserving her integrity and womanly character, is very great. For woman and a truly womanly character, my admiration knows no bounds. If there be any influence irresistible, outside of Ommp* itence, that influence is hers. But I am unable to divest myself of the conviction which has thus far accompanied my life, that appropriately, in one sphere, man in the out of door, rough-and-tumble public life and labor, discharges his duty, while in another, woman, quietly moulding character, shapes the destiny of man, and secures the best good of both. With this remains the conviction that the proposed change will not advance the best good of either."

The important subject of State finance and taxation early became quite a specialty with Mr. Hitchcock, and few men in the State better understood its resources, or are capable of devising sounder methods of realizing and applying them. So entirely above party is he, that leading democrats in the legislature of 1878 - 9 credited him with doing more to serve the interests of the State, upon questions of finance and taxation, than any member of the house.

So, the paramount subject of education, early and constantly received his earnest and enlightened attention. Ohio has much to be proud of, in her system of popular education. Perhaps the representatives of no county in the State have, on the whole, contributed so much to its advancement as the representatives of Geauga. Of all the enlightened men whom she has given to the service of the State, none has more steadily and intelligently contributed to this cause than has he.

At the outbreak of the Rebellion, and during the war, he took very decided ground. Extracts from his public addresses will better convey his thought and spirit of patriotism, than anything that can be written.

From his speech in the house, February 23, 1861, on the "Bill to prevent giving aid to fugitive slaves," is extracted some paragraphs in his advocacy of human rights, and the support of the Union. He asks, "Must we pass laws which, if carried out in their spirit, would inflict severe penalties upon that person who should give a cup of water, a bit of bread, or bestow a blanket upon the poor, shivering, hunted fugitive? Does duty demand this of us? Because we declare ourselves ready to discharge constitutional obligations and aid in enforcing constitutional law, shall we volunteer legislation unasked? The bill before us proposes to punish, by severe penalty, that person who, under certain circumstances, furnishes aid to the hungry, naked and needy fugitive. You cannot by law prevent it. No law can do it, and the attempt is simply an effort to exercise the law-making power, in obedience to a spirit of oppression, in stifling and preventing the manifestation of benevolence and outspoken sympathy of the human heart. Laws for this purpose will, from the necessity of the case, prove a nullity. -

'That no person or persons shall kidnap, or forcibly, or fraudulently carry off or decoy, out of this State, any black or mulatto person or persons, within this State, claimed as fugitives from service or labor, or shall attempt to kidnap, or forcibly, or fraudulently carry off or decoy out of this State, any such black or mulatto person or persons, without first having taken such black or mulatto person or persons before the court, judge, or commissioner of the proper circuit, district or county having jurisdiction according to the laws of the United States, in cases of persons held to service or labor in any State, escaping into this State, and there, according to the laws of the United States, establishing by proof his or their property in such person.'

An examination of the various authorities quoted by the majority in its report, shows this to be the substance of decisions of the United States supreme court, where this principle may be supposed to be involved, more concisely stated, perhaps, in that known as the Prigg case, than any other. 1st. That the owner of a slave has the right to seize and recapture a slave where, and whenever he can do so, without force or illegal violence; and 2d. That any State law or regulation which interrupts, impedes, embarrasses, or in any way postpones the exercise of this right, is void. That asserts the right of the owner to take his slave without compulsion. This statute only requires that if he attempts to take him by force, and remove him without taking him before the proper authority and proving his claim, then he shall suffer a penalty, severe, it is true, but can it be aught too much so? It is a penalty for the attempt to subject a free man to slavery. Is if too much that he who attempts this enslaving shall himself be bound? Does it conflict with the second point, or with the fugitive slave law? No. It does not in any way interfere with or prevent the exercise of the right on the part of the owner, when he attempts to recover his slave without the exercise of force. But the fugitive slave law having been passed, requiring certain steps to be taken by the claimant, this law is passed imposing a penalty upon that person who comes in the State and attempts, forcibly, to remove any of its people without first having complied with the provisions of that law.

If right, justice and a proper regard to the interests of the people of our own State, demand the passage of measures like that now under consideration, then let them be enacted, otherwise not. Is aught that we have done, or may do, to accomplish anything in solving the uncertainty which hangs over us, and stay the tide of secession and disunion threatening entire destruction? What care our southern neighbors for what we may do, in the repeal or passage of laws?

Having so long, in their mind's eye, followed the "ignis fatuus " which has been leading them on - the dazzling prospect of a brilliant Southern Confederacy - in which slavery should be extended and perpetuated, and the cotton and sugar trade of the world monopolized - the leaders rejoice at this opportunity to take advantage of the prejudices of the masses, which had been excited by misrepresentations of the true sentiment of the north, as exemplified and attempted to be carried out by the Republican party, to accomplish their long concealed purposes of secession and dissolution. Those leaders are now in open rebellion against the laws and government of the United States, and yet measure after measure, like that before us, is urged upon us, and we are told to pass them that they may be appeased. Forcibly having possessed themselves of forts and arsenals, dock-yards, mints, and other property of the United States government, they now call upon that government to treat with them. If one now suggests the idea or propriety of making some little preparation for contingencies which may arise, we are told "Hands off! take care! you will needlessly excite the sensitiveness of our southern brethern;" and immediately, with horror expressed in every tone, the cry* of " Coercion!" is rung in our ears. You have no right to coerce a State. But then has a State the right to coerce the general govornment? What less? What different are, and have been, States attempting? With force and arms, surrounding and seizing upon forts and arsenals within their limits, and with greater force, and more extensive preparation, investing other positions not yet reduced, they demand their unconditional surrender. War is, and has been for weeks, actually begun upon the part of these States, although prosecuted thus far without bloodshed; they, by the force of numbers, overcoming and carrying one position after another, and yet we are called upon to legislate carefully not to disturb their equanimity.

Yea, more, traitors dictating terms to that government against which they are plotting and acting treason. Shall we, frightened by the noise and confusion, turn, and swallowing our words, give the lie to all our previous professions? Is the position we have taken right? the principle we have advocated just ? Or have we no confidence in its truth, its justice, its importance? We are told that we must compromise, that we must yield up something, or our southern brethren will continue going away as they have been going, until the Union is broken, our constitution overthrown, and government destroyed. To sustain this Union, we must concede and compromise, and surrender, and yield what? Our manhood. We must abandon long cherished, and what we believe to be correct, principles - we must consent to constitutional changes - must give guarantees - must get down and humbly ask our southern brethren what legislation will suit them, then haste to grant it. To us the constitution is good enough - that constitution, as made and administered by its authors. We will abide by it. It requires of us duties repugnant to our sense of right, of humanity, yet those duties shall be discharged. But we say plainly, unequivocally, that we do not, can not, will not admire the institution ; can not love it, will not cling to it, and shout around it in our self-abandonment, as a system containing the ne plus ultra of all that is right, lovely, and of good report. Neither can we consent to its extension. In the States where it now exists, keep it as you desire, make the most of it. We have no power, neither have we the inclination to interfere with it, but no farther extension. Thus far has it come, and no further shall it go. What is the object of constitutional change. The recognition of the right of property in man, and this in some form to be recognized I understand to be the real object of such change. It is no time to change. If we cannot live under the constitution as it is, if alienation of feeling, of interest, of purpose, is such as to prevent it, certainly in this time of excitement, we cannot change that instrument with any safety. No; let us rally around it, with it determine to stand or fall, under its ruins, if it must crumble, let us be buried; let its flag be our winding sheet; let every one of its stars go out and fade away in eternal night, rather than that it shall continue to float only as a symbol of union, for the support of a system of oppression and wrong."

Brief extracts, can but faintly outline the feeling aroused by his powerful words in support of the Emancipation proclamation, and for loyalty to the government, in the Ohio senate, March 4, 1863.

"Mr. President: - War exists. A war, terrible in nature, fearful in extent, desperate in the struggles of contending forces, fierce and desolating in its progress, and apalling in the magnitude of the consequences involved.

"It exists not on account of conflicting jurisdiction with neighboring nations - not by attacks upon the commerce of the country - not by invasion of a foreign foe attempting, in the fierce tribunal of arms, to settle long disputed questions of international comity, but by the act of traitors, rebels in arms against the government They, the prime movers, instigators of this rebellion, and leaders in its efforts, being the representatives of the recipients of the richest blessings of the government, under which this whole people has become so great, and in time past has been so prosperous and happy.

"About two years since, in anticipation of a contingency that might arise, the general assembly of the State of Ohio, by a vote almost or quite unanimous, passed a resolution, pledging the entire resources of the State, moral and physical, in aid of the government in sustaining the constitution, and crushing out rebellion. The anticipated contingency happens. The present deplorable civil war has been forced upon the country by the disunionists of the Southern States , now in arms against tne government, and in arms around the capitol, and we come to the consideration of the resolution before the senate:

"Re solved, That it is with pain and mortification, that we hear of the propositions of either persons or parties in the North, to divide the loyal States with the ultimate design of attaching any portion of those States to the so-called Southern Confederacy.

"Starting with the proposition, which all will admit, that it is the duty of every loyal man in the whole country to give his entire energies, so far as they may be needed, to the support of the government in this struggle for its existence, and that every resource of the country should be subsidized to the same end - another inevitably follows: That there is a dividing line between the supporters and opposers of the government, upon one or the other side of which every man places himself. No matter whether, in taking any position he may, he is aware of the fact or not - it is nevertheless true. The conclusion cannot be avoided. He is either for or against the government. There is no neutrality in this war. There can be none. All the power of the government is demanded to carry on this contest. That power re^ts in the people. The people are the government The executive and legislative departments of the government, so termed, are only the agents of that government, executing its will, and the withholding the energies of any one man, rightly demanded for its support, cripples, and to that extent opposes, the administration of the government in its efforts to sustain itself and maintain its supremacy.

"He who in arms attempts the overthrow of the government - he who sympathizes with and encourages this attempt - he who attacks the credit of the government, denounces its administrations, frowns when it succeeds, and laughs at its failures, and he who quietly folds his hands, saying this is none of my concern, I am not responsible for, and will take no part in its settlement, is alike guilty of opposition. If there be difference, it is in favor of that one who, believing it right, however false that opinion may be, fights for it, rather than the one who, thinking to avoid responsibility, stands back silently praying for its success, while he waits with illy concealed hopes therefor.

"Having said thus much, I turn to examine the position taken by senators in this discussion. The senator from Perry (Mr. Finck) tells us that 'he is for the support of the government and continuance of the Union' and 'that he will never consent to any dismemberment thereof; that he sustained the administration in the conduct of the war up to the time of the issuing of the presidents emancipation proclamation, but that he will do so no longer.'

"It is a little strange, however, and indicates a little remaining consideration on the part of the senator, and those who act with him, for the feelings of those with whom they have been politically associated in times past, and of whom we sometimes speak as our 'erring brethren,' that when you touch rebels where their strength lies, they should all at once have such a holy horror of constitutional violation. The leaders in this rebellion are striving to establish a government whose corner-stone is slavery. In their efforts, their great element of strength is slavery. While white men in their army fight the battles of rebeldom, four millions of slaves are at home engaged in caring for the interests of those men, and raising supplies for the support of that army. More than this, they are pressed into servifce and made to dig trenches, raise fortifications, and even hold arms and shoot bullets by which our brothers, sons and friends are wounded and killed. Yet, if you strike at, or in any way interfere with this system, though it be necessary to save the nation, the senator is horrified.

The senator for Ashland (Mr. Kenny), exhibits his opposition, in an attempt to discourage the people of the country, by disparaging the conduct, and attempting to render odious the neecessary results of the war. He will not encourage and sustain the administration, in the prosecution of the war for the Union. He will not go into the army unless drafted, and it will take a strong draft to hold him. His declaration sounds very much like another read by the senator from Fayette in the course of his remark, from the Marion County Mirror , in which the editor of that paper says: "For our part, we shall oppose the draft. If Old Abe or his minions arrest us for this, we will submit to the arrest, if the people say so , and not without ." These, taken in - connection with telegraphic signals of approval, passing between senators upon this floor, as the quotation above referred to was read, irresistibly force upon my mind the conclusion that there is a determination on the part of some to resist the government in its attempt to add to, or fill up, its army. I will not ask, is this loyalty? Notone word as to the rebellion and the danger to the Republic from the combined attacks of rebels. No. All the danger in the mind of the senator is in assump- tions of power and constitutional encroachments by the President. His support, like that of the senator from Perry, depends upon the adoption of a policy such as he would mark out. All Rebeldom would be loyal, allowing them to fix the terms of their loyalty. -

Had I been conducting this war, my purpose at the commencent would have been, as it seems to me was the policy of the President, to carry it on without reference to slavery. When by force of circumstances slavery was recognized as an element in the war, as I believe the President was convinced it was, when he issued his Emancipation Proclamation, I would have said, said. Slavery , stand from under. Where it stands in the way of sustaining the government, let the gowrnmental car roll on. My faith in the "patriarchal" institution is not great, and in its "christianizing" influence far less. On this point let the long list of heathenish barbarities perpetrated by rebels during this contest testify. The senator would have property in slaves take its chances with other property. Exactly. But when in that property is a rebePs strength, take it from him. If you need it, use it, but mind it is never returned to him again. He has forfeited all claim to it. Thank Heaven, slavery is doomed, not because the President issued his proclamation - not because, in the conduct of this war he has sought this end, or that his administration has been directed to it, only as a means of crushing the rebellion; but because an all-wise, overruling Providence has decreed it as the result of this contest, and all the powers of earth and the infernal regions combined cannot prevent it.

I well recollect, perhaps other senators can; hundreds of the people of this State have vivid recollections, of the feelings with which they have approached the long lines of little mounds, on one and another of the fields of strife, where has gone out so much young life, amid the roar of battle and clash of arms. At such a time, how little seem any and all other sacrifices, in comparison with giving up a son, a brother, a friend, upon the altar of our country, a sacrifice to propitiate this unholy rebellion. Forgetting past differences and reckless of personal consequences, let us cast away every preconceived notion of policy, and joining hand to hand, while heart beats responsive to heart, anew pledge ourselves and energies, our State and its resources, to the struggle for the Union. With unwavering confidence in the justice of our cause, and reliance in the integrity of purpose, on the part of the executive, let us yield his administration a hearty support, while we go on in united, fearless and determined effort to crush out this rebellion and perpetuate the government. If the snares set for the Union are so strong - which I neither admit, nor believe - and the pitfalls surrounding her so deep, that she cannot by possibility escape - then let her perish in struggles to extricate herself, rather than by thd hands of armed assassins she has nourished and brought up."

As long ago as 1858, during his first term in the house, he was placed on the committee on charitable institutions, and came to have cognizance of the infant and feeble institution for idiotic youth, the most helpless and hopeless of the human race. He found it with seventeen inmates, while the State provided for but nine. His sympathies were at once enlisted, and from that day to the present, he devoted as much time and energy as his other duties would permit, to this noble charity. From 1863 till the present, except during the intervals when the democracy ruled the State, he has served as a trustee of the institution. This school, where the idiot, by nature so feeble that mother's love could find no rudiment of intellect in them whereon to build, and no ray of soul on which, in the measureless love of God, she could hope, have been gathered and placed under the hands of science and care, so subtle, patient, skilful and abiding, that, seemingly, minds are bom and souls created, and they are built up, nursed, and sent forth with intelligence and moral faculties equal to the struggles of the

The kind-hearted Dr. G. A. Doren, a very young physician there, since found to be eminently practical iij all the endless detail of a great institution, and a remarkable manager, now father of the asylum, found, in Mr. Hitchcock a careful but determined supporter, and the little school overflowed the narrow walls of the family house on Friend street, and the State gave it a farm on the heights, west of Columbus. The household of 1858, and its seventeen children, has grown to be the first, of its kind, in the land, if not in the world - nursing, developing, and educating 500 children, in a magnificent home of convenient beautiful surroundings, planned to admit and radiate everywhere, the brightest quildings, with side of life. No institution of the same extent has cost the State so little, and there is none of which she may justly be more proud. The doctor and his sympathetic, helping wife, in the constant care through all these years, with their two little girls, is still the head of this great family.

Years of patient, untalked of, unproclaimed, unwritten, and unknown work, in and out of office, has Mr. Hitchcock given to this problem of human charities. The opposition could laugh at, and even abuse him, for persisting in his support and care for this and other benevolent instutions, but it made no difference; he was true to his highest convictions.

In the long and varied career of a useful public life, it seems to me, no reward, however well deserved, can, on the whole, be so highiy valued as the garnered fruit of years of work thus devoted, and all the more so, as it can win no plaudit from the multitude, no ballots at the hustings, and the memory of it should always come to shield the patient worker, from the uncharitable thoughts of enemies, if enemies he has. All labors for this and the other benevolent institutions of the noble State, were without price or pay, and must ever be without thought of political reward. To the managers of caucuses, the packers of primaries, and the leaders of nominating conventions, they are as unknown and inappreciable as the prayer of a christiaa in his closet. Few men have remained so long in the legislative service of his State as Mr. Hitchcock. He has grown into a complete knowledge of her needs and resources, and his trained ability and experience have given him a capacity still capable of enlargement, of rendering the most valuable services to her, and which should be acknowledged by conferring upon him the highest honors within her gift. Most public men, as they gather experience and knowledge, and thus year by year become more valuable, in the triterations and conflicts of political life, produce atoms of jealousies, rivalries, and enmities, which deposited here and there, and in greater or less quantities, are kept stored for future use against him, or put in circulation to his annoyance or detriment. The veiT ^act ^at he has become useful and experienced, is often fatally used to defeat him in the interest of the unknown and untried. I am not aware that Mr. Hitchcock has been accused of a grave mistake, or ever faltering in duty. This is very much, in so many years of public service. Nor are his faults those which may spring from want of moral courage, and the infirmities of integrity. And now, at the age of sixty-one, at his best, with the confidence won by so many years, the future seems quite his own.

It is fortunate and marks alike the good sense and good fortune of Mr. Hitchcock^ constituents, that they early discovered his capacity and usefulness, retained him in public life until his experience and knowledge enabled him to be of the largest service, and refuse to listen to the small and often querulous complaints, that always spring up to worry the footsteps of every man in the public service many vears. A man thus steadily sustained may become most valuable. No man can without it, and it is most creditable to the prudence and good

In person, Mr. Hitchcock is slight, wiry and nervous, one of those men capable of any amount of endurance ; of good address, pleasing manners, and well calculated to win friends; has well developed intellectual powers, strengthened and quickened by a constant intercourse with the world, rather than with many books. Seeing quickly, is sagacious, politic, a good reader of men, and master of the arguments that will control them, having considerable personal magnetism, well liked, kind, sympathetic, and charitable, he has always been, without seeming to be, a leader of men. He has a ready appreciation of the ludicrous, a capacity to enjoy good things, and an ability to be guilty of a joke. He is one of the most sociable and companionable of men, while he is all that can be desired as a friend and neighbor. At sixteen he united himself with the Congregational church, and adds the evidence of his profession and consistent life, to the weight of authority on the side of religion and pure morals. A strong temperance advocate, few men have been more consistent or persistent in favor of the reform. A member of every organization established, in his township, since he was twelve years old, he has labored steadily for the reform of men, and the suppression of the liquor traffic, ever speaking and acting squarely against the evil, in his own county and in his public service.

Mr. Hitchcock resides in the old homestead of his father, and perpetuates its tradition and memories in home and social life, as he continues that revered name in the service of the State. His public life has not, in any sense, exalted or carried him away from, and above, the ordinary pursuits of the farm. When at home, his example is that of an industrious worker, honoring the pursuit of agriculture, with the labor of his hands, and enjoying the blessings of a genial home and the good will of his neighbors, and the social regard of his townsmen, alike honoring and being honored in any position of life. A. G. R.

Was born October 19, 1763, and raised on West Mountain, in Cheshire, Connecticut His schooling was completed quickly and thoroughly. He started in, and on the third day the teacher laid him across her lap and applied the spanks. He struggled, and finally bit her knee. She set him with the girls, and he graduated - by crawling out of the window, never to return again.

He learned the carpenter's trade in Woodbridge, and when about 20 years old worked at the trade in New Haven, where Judge Daggett became interested in him. Working in the day timfe, he would study evenings, and recited, in reading, spelling, writing, and arithmetic, to the judge. He was seven years, from the age of 14, steadily at work in learning his trade as carpenter and joiner, so thorough was the apprenticeship of that time. His first employment was on the recommend of Judge Daggett, and he walked eight miles, with tools on his back to the work. He was set to hewing, at fifty cents per day. After dinner his employer examined the scribe work, &nd found it square and smooth. He was told to take the square and compass, and go ahead. Not half a day in mastering the situation, his pay was increased to $1.00 per day, and ever afterwards he was a "boss builder." His work was largely in building bridges, mills, and meeting houses, with his brother, Elias, in the east.

His father's home was on West mountain, beside a great rock, and in the bracing air of that high region, there grew up in the log cabin, strong children, who sported in the shadow of the huge stone. This great worker - athlete in build, and clear of head as a mountaineer - wandered down South mountain, around its eastern slope, to a house in the valley. A little woman met him beside the well, as a drawer of water. He went again and drank inspiration; still was subject to some spell which he could not break. Before the eyes of this girl of the valley, he was a captive. She bound him with chains - not grievous, but of a bondage that was sought His trade, his axe and square, his plans and courage for the great world of work, were all before her. She said, "John, I will go with you;" and she did, ever after a helpmeet, and her name was a household word for goodness and right, through all the generations of a i new country. Easter Cook was this girl at the bucket and the well. She was born in the same township, March 22, 1769, and they were married September 20, 1790. She was a sister of Marimon Cook.

In 1804, with broadaxe on his shoulder, he set out for the west. Asa Wilmot, an apprentice, came with him. His first stroke with that broadaxe in the new empire of woods, was for education, in the building of the academy, of which he took charge that year. He looked out the lands, and, with Deacon Marimon Cook, purchased Mr. Street's interest in the township, in all, some 3,000 acres. The year 1805 he remained east, and worked on a mill north of Cheshire. This year they sent to Jonathan Brooks, and he cleared the field north of H. H. Ford's present residence, and sowed it to wheat. The next year, 1806, he and Cook walked through and harvested the crop, and he worked again on the academy, which was not yet complete, and both Cook and himself built houses, preparatory to their families coming the year following. His house still stands, southeast of the larger dwelling on Cheshire street, on lot 26, north of the fur grounds. They returned east again in the fall.

To the large wagon, covered with cloth, were yoked twro pairs of oxen, and a horse hitched on lead, and in this was stored what goods they had, and the wife and children took their places for a journey upon a long road. As in the march of life, so then, it was never to be retraced by all that company. Those children - Lydia, Stephen, Anson, Seabury, and Eliza - whatever might be their destinies, their faces were forever set westward. In their tears was said the "goodbye," and the last fond look caught the sunlight's gleam upon the great rock by the grandfather's door, of their New England home, as they passed away. This was April 20, 1807, and June 2d they were on Burton hill. They had come by way of Harrisburg, and at the foot of the Alleghenies stopped to shoe the oxen. From there on to Pittsburgh, Beaver, Poland, and Warren. Cook took his mouse colored mare, u Old Blue," and came on to Burton for teams. At Warren, the party that had traveled together - being Ford, Cook, and Patchin - were met by Calvin Williams, Ebenezer Hayes, and Daniel Dayton, with three pairs of oxen to help them on through the woods and mud. At Farmington they stopped over night, and did not reach Burton until midnight of the next day.

As noted, his trips to Ohio were made on foot, and the journeys were swift as if he had the power of the "Indian lope" through the forests. Eighteen times he traveled the whole distance between Ohio and Connecticut on foot On one of these journeys he had a large amount of money in saddle-bags, that were slung over his shoulder. His only weapons of defense were two scythes, which he was bringing into the country. At night he was followed to the. tavern by a suspicious looking man. He carelessly threw the bags behind the bar, as if of no value. The next day this stranger rode past him, then turned in his saddle and looked back, and finally wheeled around and came by, as though he was mistaken in the man he had followed. Ford's rough and uncouth dress, it is thought, threw the highwayman "off the scent" had a horse and wagon to New Haven, a long trip from Ohio then, but Ford only charged him eight dollars for it. The characteristic tow frock of the day was all the coat he needed. His robust health enabled him to defy cold, and in winter he worked or walked in the sharp days, in his shirt sleeves. In the earlier day he followed his trade, and was a good manager at a raising. With the timbers in order, and each man in his place, he commanded, and all the frame went together and up, like "clock work."

His boys were early trained to the logging camp, and he was often with them in "rolling up and burning." They spent weeks on No. 9, where Anson afterwards lived, going there Monday morning and remaining until Saturday evening or Sunday morning. Several farms were, by his camps, cleared up. Not tolerant of a lazy motion, his impetuosity was illustrated on the son, who was afterwards Governor, one day in the logging field. Blackbirds settled on some wheat near by, and he called Seabury to run. The boy's steps were not lively, until overtaken by the father's stroke with an ox whip, who hit him, and at every jump cried, "Run, you dog, run."

Somewhat gruff, he used to startle the boys that came around where he worked on buildings. Always willing to lend tools, he wanted them returned promptly. Jacob Hutchins came to borrow a chisel. "Yes, Jake, take it, and when you are done, whip it, and send it home." Jake returned it with the handle slivered in pieces. "What, what!" exclaimed Ford. "Well," said Jake, "you told me to whip it, and I did." The wit of the boy brought a smile to the man's face. He could take a joke. After that, he called Jake Dr. Goodwin's devil. Rough as he was, and abrupt in speech, beneath such an exterior was a kind heart. The force of early habits increased with him, in later years, to an excessive use of stimulants.

His lands advanced in value, and he bought, sold, and exchanged with success, as a financier, and amassed a large property. When the youngest son, Henry, reached the age of 20, he decided to divide his lands among them, and sent them all into the ball-room# chamber, writh instructions to work out the division among themselves, saying, when they were agreed he would deed them the land. A week's figuring finished the work, and the land was divided.

The spirit of humor overflowed with him, and when Brooks Bradley drove the cows up the lane at night, they would dash back past him, heads and tails high in air, and run clear to the woods. Brooks, as he chased back after the frightened cattle, did not see "Uncle John's" old hat down in front of his bent form, shaking out from behind a stump in that lane. He played some trick on David Tod, afterwards governor of Ohio. David sawed the top bar over which "Uncle John" leaned, when he poured the swill to his pigs. "Dave" and his companion watched, the next time "Uncle John" fed, and when well on the bar, it broke, and he fell, with pail and contents, among the hogs. A suppressed laugh from an adjoining fence corner, hinted to "Uncle John" how it happened, but he climbed from the mess and said nothing. He saw only one thing in Tod that he called mean; that was when he tore leaves out of the old Bible. His kindness to the sick, and readiness to aid the poor, was known throughout the country, and his hospitality was so thoroughly endorsed by his amiable and ready housewife, as to be remembered by hundreds of travelers and by many families.

For several years he served as justice of the peace. When the Western Reserve bank was started, he was one of the first subscribers to its stock, $12,000, in all, and was an influential director. Being at a meeting of the stockholders, before dinner-time, he went into the tavern. His rough and unshorn appearance was not favorable to much attention from the landlord. Asking if he could have dinner, he was told, with some importance, dinner has been pre- pared for the stockholders of the bank. When they are through, you can have a seat. A-hem! hem's! well, was Ford's response, as he walked out of the door. When the stockholders gathered at the dinner-table, inquiry was raised w'here's Ford. Saw him on the street, said one. Send the landlord to call John Ford, said another. The landlord was called, discovered his mistake, and sought his neglected guest on the street, with liberal explanations. No, no, said Ford, needn't apologize. Will go in when the stockholders are through. When he came in afterwards, his friends gathered round the carpenter from Burton. Hem, hem ! said he, landlord smart. Want a man to have on gloves, and carry a cane. Don't like tow frock and shirt sleeves. Didn't know as much as he thought he did, hem, hem ! His religious views took the Universalist way. His wife, "Aunt Easter" was a faithful member of the Congregational church, and her influence over the family comes back from that period of years, as the stars that shine in glory. Her life was to all, as gentle as the dews of heaven. From another pen, that of the Hon. Peter Hitchcock, comes this fitting tribute. "She was one of those women who had very much to do in forming the character, and shaping the destiny of the infant settlement of Burton. Small, frail, yet she had wonderful power of willing and accomplishing. With quiet purpose, patient in bearing and doing, and a kindness of manner felt by all within her reach, she is well remembered by those who knew her intimately as dear "Aunt Easter." From choice, as well as force of circumstances, her life was almost entirely spent in the home circle. Emphatically was she a stayer at home. So true was this, that although early a sincere Christian woman, and loving to meet with others in her chosen place of worship, it was only occasion ally that her seat was filled, other duties seeming to her sensitive mind as urging a prior claim. For these reasons, the circle of her immediate acquaintance was less than it would have been. Upon her descendants for successive generations was the influence of her life and character most effective. The Ford family is well known. Rugged strength had they from the father, but largely may it be attributed to the precept and example of this good woman, that its members are so certainly found on the side of sobriety and good morals. May memory of her live and grow green in the coming years. Certainly with those who knew her personally, forgetfulness will only come with the termination of life." He went first to the long rfcst beneath the hill, dying August 6, 1842, almost 79, and at the age of 83 she was laid beside him, her death occurring December 26, 1851.

Lydia, - the oldest daughter, was born September n, 1791. She married Uri Hickox who died early, leaving her the care of a large family. She was a faithful mother, and toiled bravely through the lonely years, training her family to respectability, and well enduring the hardships of pioneer life. She died April 5, 1871.

Esther Eliza - was born July 4, 1806, lived to be sixteen, dying August 29, 1822. Hers was a superior nature, attractive to all, and her death casta gloom over the whole community. Lovely in person, and charming in manners, her sweet experience led captive her friends. Julia Chase, a companion with her in school, taught by Ralph Cowles, -writes of her now, as one of the most gifted and best of girls.

Eldest son of John and Easter Ford, was born January the 28th, 1796, in Cheshire, Connecticut (New Haven county), on West mountain. Attended school higher up on the mountain, northwest from his father's house, at the age of four years. His teacher was Jessie Ford. He ran away from school one day to find a pond on the north side of the mountain, and his mother switched him for it. Sallie Curtiss taught two winters east of Elam Cook's, and he attended. In the winter of 1806-7, his last in that State, he was at school, south of his grandfather Ford's, in a frame dwelling house. The schooling was mostly in the spelling book. Summers he drove plough among the rocks and stones of that rough country for Nathan Ford, his uncle, who taught him how to hold the whip and drive oxen well. One summer he ploughed for Elam Cook, his uncle. Starting off one day from Cook's on a homesick trip, he stopped over night with Ephraim Cook and his aunt, "Sukey." He was cured of his homesickness, and went back next morning to Joseph Cook's, where he worked two or three weeks.

Leaving Connecticut in April, 1807, with his father's family, after a trip of 42 days, he reached Ohio May 31st At Youngstown he found Harry Umberfield, who was coming on from Poland with a stallion horse. Harry wanted him to be company, and he started on. They rode and walked by turns, and reached Parkman, where they staid over night, and came on to Burton next morning. The winter of 1807-8 he attended school in Hickox's store. Hickox taught the school. Esther Johnson was a large and frolicsome girl. He was one of the big boys who delighted in seeing her blush, when her face was well rubbed with snow', in some of their noon-day sports. The winter, 1 808-9 he attended a school taught by Judge Peter Hitchcock, in the log school-house near Eli Hayes'. After that, he was a pupil of the judge and of Gilbert Ferris in the academy. Ralph Cowles taught in Bradley, the hatter's house, near where John PQnderson now lives, and on the corner, where Lyman Durand lived. He attended both these schools, and at last he was at the school-house on the northwest corner of the square. He only studied the common branches.

Eunice Brooks, a daughter of Gideon Brooks, bom in Cheshire, Connecticut, October 12, 1796, had come on with the family of Hiram Cook, and was visiting Jonathan Brooks and the Cooks. She was a sprightly girl, with light hair, blue eyes and sweet face, a winsome body, just the age to captivate the western boys. One night at a singing school, taught by* Brooks, in the school-house, David Taylor and Stephen passed out together. Taylor saw Miss Cook and Miss Brooks, and said to Stephen, " go with those girls and help them home, I have ahorse or I would go." The orders were obeyed. He spoke, the girls separated, and the gallant young Ford took one on each arm. On arriving at the house of Brooks, he was invited in, staying longer than was expected, but no doubt expectations were aroused, for he aftewards took Miss Brooks for his life companion. They were married August 19, 1816. The bridal trip was made in a two-horse lumber wagon, over logways and by wood routes, fording and ferrying streams, 600 miles back to old Connecticut. They drove ten miles in the mud of the Cattaraugus woods, with no house along the way. The company of this bridal party was Asa Wilmot, a carpenter, going to visit his friends. They were sixteen days going, and returned with her outfit of wooden bowls, pewter platters and blue dishes, to a log house which stood east of the spring, in the present old orchard on his farm. She was one of those patient, even tempered women, whose home was a blessing to all who crossed its threshold, and, as in this log house, so it was in the latter one - a special hospitality in her care, to all comers in the early time and the later day. An orchard was set out in 1815, which surrounded the house and covered part of the nine acre lot that was cleared before that time. The balance of the clearing on the farm, in all about 80 acres, he did. The farm was a gift from his father - about 140 acres on lot 37. He took pride in raising red cattle. Grain for feeding the stock was part of the agriculture of that day. The first bam was built, where it now stands, in 1817, and the same hemlock siding covers it now that was nailed on more than 60 years ago. He was a superior hand to manage a team, and was often with the teams on the road. Captain Patchin drove with him the first loaded teams through from Painesville, by way of Chardon village, over a new and very rough, hard road. (No one living at the village then, about 1811.) He took two pairs of oxen and went to Simeon Moss' landing, on the Cuyahoga, east of where Perry Reed now lives, for lumber. Returning with his load, when he came into the pinery, on Oak hill, the wolves began to howl. He sat with an axe, ready for defense, on the loadi, but no wolf came. Going across the woods from Page's to his brother's, he heard the brush snap, in the path just ahead, and thought a bear was ready to pounce upon him, when one started off with a snuff, and ran away.

He learned to write well, and one of his written notices for election day was taken to be that of Ralph Cowles, the master. He was first elected constable ; afterwards, served as justice of the peace for a time, and resigned ; was elected township treasurer, and held the office 30 years, his accounts being carefully kept and with fidelity. In 1816, he was chosen lieutenant of militia, was capcaptain two years, and, in 1819 or '20, was elected lieutenant-coloneL The militia musters were held at Burton. At a revival meeting held in Claridon, he was converted, and joined the Congregational church in Burton. His father was friendly to the masons, and, about 1835, they held a meeting in the big ballroom of his father's house, when he joined them, and has been more than 50 years a mason - perhaps the oldest living in the county. His wife died October 31, 1856, and rests in the yard east of the village, only a little way west from the home of which she was so many years the light and the joy. He is living with his son, Henry, on the old farm - now past 83, able to mount his mare and ride well in saddle, until last summer (1878), when on mounting she started and his foot slipped. The fall injured his thigh. He recoved slowly, and is able to walk with a cane. His recollections have given may items for the history.

Clarissa M. - their eldest daughter, was born August 20, 1818; married to Lawrence Hitchcock, at Burton, December 20, 1837. She was one of the brightest of girls; an amible, even tempered, and patient Christian woman, known only to be loved. Her death occurred at Michigan City, Indiana, September 20, 1868.

S. Burdett - eldest son, born November 11, 1820, married Julia, a sister of Frederick Thomas, at Hartsgrove, November 8, 1849. She is well remembered as an assistant teacher, with her brother, in the 3d academy. Burdett and his family enjoy a quiet life, on his farm, lot 76, across the river.

Eliza E. - born June 9, 1826, was married to Thomas Brotherlin, at Burton, August 24, 1848. She was a gentle lady, and a faithful companion of a Christian husband. He died in Columbus, May 18, 1864, and her death occurred April 1, 1865.

Eunice M. - born February 17, 1829, a girl of preposessing qualities, and all the genuine kindness of heart, so4manifest in the life of her mother, resides with her sister, Mrs. Johnson, at Michigan City, Indiana.

Henry E. - born December 25, 1836, married Fanny E. Dayton, at Burton, June 16, 1858. He occupies the old homestead, and is devoted to the pursuit of agriculture. He has taken great interest in the county fairs, and has served several years as secretary of the agricultural society.

Ellen Annette - bom February 22, 1839, became first a teacher, and, after the death of her mother, was with Mrs. Brotherlin, in Columbus. Their home was her home. In her school days, she met Henry W. Johnson, of Middlefield.

When the stormy years of the war had passed, this gallant soldier of the 41st Ohio, sought her, and they were married in Columbus, January 1, 1867. Surrounded with an interesting family, they reside in Michigan City, Indiana.

Ada M. - bom September 18, 1844, lived to be a sweet girl and a much-loved teacher. She died at Burton, September 8th, when the shades of sorrow began to darken on the land, that memorable year of 1861.

John S. Ford

Third son of Stephen and Eunice Ford, was born September 16, 1831. He went to school as other boys, caring something for books, and as much for wooden swords and guns, painted with scokeberry juice, and the departing flocks of geese, charged upon by his command, as he did for the spelling class and the fifth reader. The military spirit of the "gineral trainins" broke out with the boys of his age every summer, and the paper hats so loftily worn, with pants striped with white, fell into line, at his call, as readily as drilled soldiers. He was captain of the boys' company which mustered on the old square about 1843. It was no task for him, about# 1844, to wade the winter snows, from his father's house to the Welton district east, to be trained by Mary Clark, one of the most amiable and instructive teachers ever in a log school-house. With his cousin Wallace, from west of the village, he walked the path to that school and returned daily, and they advanced rapidly in the common branches.

The slow years of anxious boyhood went quickly by, and there was no waiting for study of more than Adams or Ray, or of Kirkham's grammar. Employment was before him and close by. Farm work in summer, and schooling three months in winter, was the ordinary way. The intention of his parents was to give him a thorough college training, and under Joel T. Case he received academic instruction, but a visit with friends in Columbus, Ohio, the fall of 1848 determined his course of life, accepting there a position in the store of Stanton & Lee, at the remunerative price of $60 a year, and board. With a brave spirit he set in to the duties of a boy, advanced to the position of a man, and the head clerkship of one of the oldest and largest business houses in the city, that of D. T. Woodbury & Co., and received the highest salary.

In the spring of 1856 he went to La Crosse, Wisconsin, as partner of Mr. Lee, his first employer, in a general store. Returning to Columbus in the fall, for a most special and important affair of life, he found many friends gathering at the house of P. T. Snowden, on the 15 th of September. It was astonishing the number of friends he had, and how rapidly they were coming in. The first of society, of city quality and tone, filled the mansion, and a pleasant party was in waiting for the event of the morning. Sarah M. Starrett was a charming girl. The smiles of nineteen summers came as the rose tint of joy, in the blush of her face that beautiful morning. All eyes rested on her. She was the center of interest, when standing by John Ford, their vows for life were made, each to the other, and solemnized by the minister. It was a happy company, and the years that have followed have been happy to the united ones.

In June, 1857, he returned to Columbus, and became a partner in the first furniture house in the city. The firm was Brotherlin, Halm & Co. Changes occurred, and he succeeded these partners and became the head of the house of Ford, Stage & Co. His foresight and experience enabled him to obtain the contract for the making of chairs in the Ohio prison, in i860. This led to a change, and, in 1865, the firm of Ford, Johnson & Co. was established - and engaged in the manufacture of chairs - and became large contractors of prison labor. The years following the war had so filled the prisons in some of the western States, as to render labor unproductive. Finding something of this in northern Indiana, the whole concern was moved, and sat down on the white sand banks of Michigan City, in the fall of 1 868. A few years later, all the families followed to this shore of Lake Michigan. In 1872 a branch house was opened at Chicago, and took the name of J. S. Ford, Johnson &Co. Henry W. Johnson, who was major of the 41st Ohio, in the war, is the home director of the concern in Michigan City. R. A. Hichcock is chief in the Chicago house. John S. is at the head of both houses, and general manager of the whole.

This boy, set to trimming lamps in the store, at $60 a year, by determined purpose to do well everything set for him to do, with no word of complaint, and only a pleasant smile for all, went bravely down to duty and up to high position. He became first clerk, partner, head of the house, general manager of two great concerns, doing the most extensive business, in their branch, of any house in the great west.

Religious in thought and education, he is a firm but liberal Presbyterian, as is also his wife. Short, stoutish, with easy carriage, eyes and hair brown, light of skin, pleasant-faced, generous in thought and in deed, given to be mirthful, to tell well a good story, he has hosts of friends, and is held in high esteem at home and abroad.

John Anson Ford

1807. In a little log house, on the southern slope of West mountain, near Cheshire, Connecticut, September 18, 1798, the same year that the settlers began cutting away the woods of this far-off west, was bom to John and Easter A. Ford, a second son, whose hand was to grow, as if bred to the stroke of an axe, the muscles of his arm had a fibre, that the on-coming years wove into power, before which great forests passed away. Strong in the resolute will of his father, yet kind as only could be the boy of such a mother - early the imaginations began their flight to the far-away country, where the father was at work, and the mind soared beyond the shades of the mountain, and in the wondrous paths of the sunset, led on to the golden future; but the heart came back to the home, to the sweet-faced mother, the evening prayer, and that most blessed of all rest, the pillow of youth. Away below these high lands of the littie State, where the sea waves beat forever on the sands of the shore, at East Haven, March 30, 1804, six years later, in the family of a sailor, there came a child.

In 1807, with the family of John Ford, his father, this boy came to Ohio. Working in the clearings and fields summers, his schooling was confined to the winters, but he soon was teaching in some of the log school-houses of that day, one being just west of where Uri Hickox lived. Clearing away, logging, pilmff brush and burning, he was set for a house on No. 9, and often his brothers camped with him for weeks, as they cut over that lot.

Asahel Barnes had come, and in his family was a child of ten summers, called Eliza. She loved flowers. That she caught up, ever so delicately, for this youth, Anson, the blue violet of the woods, or that they plucked together the wild rose of the forest, I Jdo not know, but this is true; he afterwards surrounded his house with the beauty of bloom, and made the pathway to his door, smile with the opening bud and the unfolded flower, through all the years from April to November. He found her in the father's home, by the spring and the rocks. They were married April i, 1820, and this boy of the mountain and child of the sea started on the journey of life together. Esquire John Ford performed the ceremony. On horseback, behind her husband, she rode away. They went by Deacon Cook's, turned into the lane north of his house, and followed a winding road to a clearing, hear where Mrs. Hale now lives, and on down to a spring on the eastern hill slope on No. 9, and to a log cabin, the fire stones of which remain to this day, marking the spot where they began. The next winter they had an invitation to a ball, in the hall of his father's house, and this is the style of it, written on heavy paper cut square just the size to contain the words :

Their nearest neighbor was "Uncle" Hull Bradley, about a mile distant. Ford was a good hunter, and "jerked" venison was often smoked by the jams of the chimney, while a patridge was broiled on the coals. Half a mile east of where stood this cabin, now runs the trestle work of the Painesville and Youngstown railroad, over the east branch of the Cuyahoga, and crosses at the same point where the farmers' boys used to wade with pants rolled up, driving the cows home from the lower pasture.

One day, a little way from the door, a pet cat circled around, and drew close to a charming rattler. Mrs. Ford called her husband. With a stick he aimed for the neck of the deceitful reptile. The head stood about six inches above the coil, and the blow broke the neck of the snake, saving the mystified cat from death. He wore the hunter's shirt, a sort of tow frock, and often the buckskin pants. His rife was sure aim. A big bear had climbed into a high tree, and the quick shot tumbled him down. He had a Canadian horse, Pomp, so trained that when riding through the woods, if a buck started up, the horse stood firm, and the leveled rifle flashed, dropping the deer. A rifle company was organized early. He was elected captain. They were well drilled, and very alert in their movements. At his funeral, June 25, 1878, he was said to have been the last, having outlived all who were with him on that muster roll. On inquiry, it was found that two of the men still march the shores of time in 1879 - Joseph Tucker, of Montville, and Barclay Johnson, the trapper, of Middlefield.

Henry and Caroline Barnes came to live with them in 1822, and others of the family from time to time ; these orphan children always finding there a welcome and generous home. At a later day, as the lands cleared, they built by the road, where Horace Hale now lives, and here, as by the cabin, the beauty of flowers opened up from the new made beds among the great tree roots of the yard. His house was open to the poor, and "Aunt Newell," an old lady not of kin, lived many years in the south room, which was made comfortable for her.

Somewhat troubled with the mystifications of doctrinal teaching, he found it hard to accept the creeds of any of the religious societies. Hearing the gospel preached at a meeting held in 1835, on King street, in Chardon, he, with his wife, confessed Christ as their Saviour, and took the Bible as their rule of faith and practice, and untramelled by any dogmas, started in a Christian life.

In 1838, they moved to the first house west of the square. Here, for some years, meetings were held. The Scriptures were searched, and a "Thus saith the Lx>rd," became the ready "sword of the Spirit," from the lips of those who there heard Elder William Collins preach, and were turned "unto the Lord." In these meetings the hymns often sung, beginning with the words, "I would not live always," "Oh, Land of rest, for thee I sigh," and "How firm a foundation you saints of the Lord," were sweet forecasts of a faith that led the friends, who gathered there, above the difficulties of this life.

A church was here organized, the year 1838, known as Disciples, and he was chosen one of the elders and Joseph Woodward the other. He continued in this office of the church, teaching the Word both in private and in public, until 1857 - almost 20 years. In the building of the church for the Disciples he paid a large sum, and always carried the heavy end of the burden in the church's support. Being first to espouse what was then called a new and dangerous heresy, but which has stood the test of time and trial, in this country, as a religious faith, is reason for full mention on this point. Some friends were for a time estranged from the family, and even relatives looked with distrust upon this independent action of a house whose members had dared to investigate the Scriptures, and decide the "way of life" for themselves. His house was the place where the preachers rested, and always had a home, and the quick perceptions of his faithful wife, whose kind ways made visitors easy, put things in readiness for their comfort. It was here the young people of the village delighted to come, and often gathered to enjoy the freedom of the house. Now, many, older grown, recall with pleasure, the social ways of "Aunt Eliza." This was the home in which the family grew up, and from which they went out.

He was elected justice of the peace, succeeding John Cook, esq., in 1838, and the first case on his docket was Noah Hall vs. Ambrose Potter, June 15, 1838, and the last he entered was Johnson D. Ensign vs. Simeon Hayes, March 4, 1850. His successor was James Peffers, esq. Many times elected assessor, he served the people faithfully, and he was so often called to settle estates, that it became burdensome to him. In 1854, he was elected commissioner of Geauga county by a vote said to be one of the largest ever cast in the county.

In 1857 he removed, with his family, to Newburgh, Cuyahoga county, Ohio, and from there to Wilmington, Illinois, the spring, i860. Some time in 1862, there being no Disciple church in Wilmington, he and his wife united with the Presbyterian church at that place. Here, upon the bank of the Kankakee river, they lived upon a farm, and the two youngest boys, Eugene and Cyrus, came to manhood. The second daughter, Mrs. Emily L. Lacy, lived near them. Tuesday night, January 5, 1875, Eliza Ann Ford passed away in the good old age of 71. On the New Year's just passed, day the little children of the neighborhood had a little party with these old people. Now, they came, bringing flowers, wet with their tears, and laid them on her cold breast, saying, "She had been so good and kind to them." These flowers were a wreath immortal, from the affections of those children, laid as a crown above the pulseless heart of that good mother, and that kind tribute is sacred in the thought of her own children. The remains were brought to Burton for burial. Mr. Witter preached from 1st Corinthians xv: 26th.

The 23d of June, 1878, only a few months short of four score years, Mr. Ford died at the house of his son, Cyrus, on the bank of the river. He was brought for burial, to Burton, June 25th. An active and useful man in his day, and exemplary through a long life of Christian service, it was said at the funeral, by the old pastor, Mr. Witter, who had known him longest ;" He was a m^ upon whose character there was no stain." His strong faith was sublime. There was no doubt in his mind. A neighbor Christian called in before his death,

Alvin L. Tinker - December 31, 1846. They settled in Unionville, Lake county, where he began the practice of law. A man of generous spirit and very marked ability, he soon became known. His sarcasm and ridicule were sometimes as merciless as was his power in logical conclusions hard to overcome.

In 1851 they removed to Painesville, where he took and maintained high position, and now stands at the head of the bar. Of marked traits and decided character, true to friends, he has many who are life-long, and trust him to the end, holding him in the highest esteem, while some whom he has disturbed, in a varied and extensive practice, are bitter opponents. Such a character is worth more than that of the half way easy body, who i£ the friend of all. The students in his office have found him a ready help, and admire not only his legal, but general knowledge and literary culture. He has been a fearless defender of the poor, and many times gained for them justice in the courts, without reward other than their thanks and friendship.

county, Indiana, where he was successful in the practice of medicine. In the spring of i860, they removed to Jackson, Will county, Illinois, and afterwards to Wilmington, in order to be near the father and mother. Dr. Lacy died there. She lived a widow and cared for the old people, and is the last of the family remaining in the place where their last days were spent.

Altha Esther - was born on the old farm, September 2, 1837. The family having removed to Newburgh, Ohio, she was married there February 2, i860, to Orlando B. Hoadlev, and came to Burton, where they afterward lived.

Elias A. - the second son, was born at the village home, April 15, 1840. Mr. Riddle, in the Williams' History, has kindly written something of his record. [See sketch.]

Albert Eugene - one of the large-hearted boys, and afterwards the kindest of men, was born August 1, 1842. He married Miss Cornelia L. McIntosh, in Wilmington, Illinois, August 23, 1867. He was in the passenger department of the Cleveland, Columbus & Cincinnati railroad, as traveling agent, with headquarters at Columbus, Ohio. He died there suddenly, July 6, 1876. His face was impressive, and the large, brown eyes, full of tenderness. Tall and erect of form and prompt to duty, he carried always with him a certain easy dignity, that was an unconscious possession of power. Industrious, and strict in integrity, he quickly gained and held the respect of his superiors, on the road, and the strong friendship of the men with whom he was associated. He died too soon, and rests near the home of his youth, on the bank of the Kankakee river, in Wilmington, Illinois.

Cyrus Charles - the youngest son, was born June 24, 1844. He grew up in Illinois, and stayed with the family at the old home there, until his mother died. He was married in Wilmington, to Cynthia A Smith, January 23, 1876. Of a mechanical turn of mind, he sought an engine, and soon learned to run the steam power. In the fall of 1878, he removed to St. Louis, where he is now

Wallace John Ford

The eldest son of John A. and Eliza Ford, was born on November 21, 1832. Although Mr. Ford is still a young man, comparatively, yet, when the almost wonderful changes in the region of his nativity are considered, as well as the vast strides taken by the country, generally, since the day of his birth, that event seems to recede to the earlier of times in the history of the country. His child and boyhood home was on the northeast corner farm of the township, and he was subjected to much of the rigid discipline of a boy born in the later margin of pioneership, and grew up under the tuition of constant daily labor. Although his family were well off for the time, he, and all the young Fords, were reared as were all the boys of that day, under the reign of a pure democracy, that took no heed of distinctions, save such as were made for themselves by personal endeavor. Belonging to a family of unusual intelligence, he had all the advantages of the district-schools of that day, as well as those secured by spending some time in the academy under Joel T. Case and Frederick Thomas. He remained steadily on a farm until he was 18, when he became a clerk in G. Boughton & Co's, store (Joseph R. Johnson was the co-partner), where he remained a year. His parents were among the early acceptors of the ancient gospel, as preached by the Disciples, which commended itself with such force to his understanding that in May, 1851, he united himself with that church organization, and grew to be regarded as one of its widely known and influential members. This association naturally led his attention to the new Eclectic Institute, and academical school established at Hiram, Portage county, Ohio. Here he remained for a time, and was associated with Hazen, afterwards General, Everest, Garfield, and others, who since have reflected luster upon the school. Selected for that purpose, at the close of his last terfn, he delivered the valedictory address. Going to Cleveland, during the summer of 1852, he was head clerk in the store of A. S. Gardner, on Superior street. In 1853 his health had become impaired. In hope of gaining stength of constitution, and securing a fortune, he determined a trip to California. On March 2d, of that year, in . company with young Dr. Colbert A. Canfield, of Chardon, he started for the "Garden of the Hesperdes," going by New York and Panama. Horace Greely gave him a letter of introduction to Postmaster Moore, of San Francisco, and this "Go west young man" amused himself a long time in trying to decipher that remarkably written letter. On arriving at San Francisco, he entered the service of James Mills, formerly of Ashtabula county, Ohip, and took merchandise to the northern part of the State.

Here in the Sacramento valley was erected a large canvass store, seeming in the very shadow of Mount Shasta, though its snow-crowned peak was 120 miles away ; so near on the vision, from the awful distance, come the majestic mountains of that country. The next January, in company with Canfield and others, he went south to the Los Angelos country, to purchase cattle for the San Francisco market. In the wildness of that day, this was somewhat hazardous, though there was little fear that Indians, or banditti robbers, would be encountered. YYrhen started, the trail of the drove lay along the coast, and at one point on the sandy beach of the Pacific, the rocks of the coast range of mountains come down to the sea, and could only be passed when the tide was out. 'When the ebb left the solid sand of that shore, the drove passed the point, and was led away, far up into a clover-grown valley, for feed. The tent was pitched, and camp fires burned into the night. One man, with saddled mule, watched the cattle. The others slept. Canfield was on watch from midnight until morning.