Claridon Township (part 1 of 6)

Claridon Township

INDESCRIBABLE thoughts and feelings are awakened in the mind and heart of one, when contemplating the mighty work done by the fearless, hardy and brave army of pioneers, whose untiring efforts have subdued the mighty forests of this county and caused her waste places to smile in the sunlight of Heaven and yield an abundance of grain and fruit, and who have cleared her myriads of hills and valleys, which are annually covered with rich harvests or crowned with green pastures. To the early settlers of Claridon Township who endured the privations incident to establishing homes in a new and unbroken country, and who bravely battled to remove her majestic forests and to make it possible to cultivate her fertile plains are due their full portion of credit and the everlasting gratitude of their posterity.

Organic History

Claridon was taken from the territory of Canaan Township and was one of the first townships organized in Marion County. Although there is no entry od the records of the county defining clearly its exact limits as first created, yet there is no doubt but that it has always included the constitutional requirement of territory - a full surveyed township of six miles square; and although Scott Township has made repeated efforts to obtain its northern tier of sections, they have always proved unavailing, and to-day this township remains as one of the only two townships containing the full constitutional area in Marion County. Just how fierce the struggle was on the part of the people of Claridon Township, to retain their full territory, or just how vigorous and determined the efforts were on the part of the citizens of Scott to obtain the northern tier of sections, we are, at this late date, unable to chronicle; but a simple record of the proceedings will show that repeated efforts were made, and that they were invariably resisted. The residents on the territory in controversy were divided in their opinions as to the propriety of detaching these six sections from Claridon and attaching them to Scott Township, as will appear from the following entry taken from the record:

Auditor and Commissioners' Office, Marion, Marion County, Ohio, March 7. 1848. This day came Lawrence Van Buskirk and others, being a majority of the householders residing within the boundary of the portion of Claridon Township hereinafter named, and made application, by petition, for an alteration of the boundaries of the townships of Claridon and Scott, as follows, to wit: To attach to the said 'township of Scott one tier of sections from off the north side of said township of Claridon, and it appearing to the satisfaction of the Commissioners that legal notice had been given, and that all things appertaining to said application have been done in due form of law, it is ordered that the said one tier of sections from off the north side of said Claridon Township be and the same is hereby attached to the township of Scott.

For some reason that does not appear from the record, which possibly was some defect in the proceedings that invalidated them, that, doubtless, was taken advantage of by those opposing the movement - the order was annulled. The following year a petition of similar import, asking that the very same territory be attached to Scott Township, was presented to the Commissioners, and the prayer of the petitioners was granted, and this tier of sections was again set off to Scott, as appears in the following entry:

This day the Commissioners met pursuant to the statute. Present, John Uncapher, Hiram Knowles and Lewis Topliff, Commissioners, and Lawrence Van Buskirk, County Auditor.

This day came Adam Hipsher, James Tight and others, and presented their petition to the County Commissioners in the words and figures following, to wit: "To the Honorable the Commissioners of the County of Marion and State of Ohio: Gentlemen - We your petitioners would humbly represent that Claridon Township is six miles wide from north to south, and that Scott Township is but four miles wide from north to south, and that we believe it would conduce to the public benefit if one tier of sections were set off of the north side of Claridon Township and attached to said Scott Township. We, your petitioners, therefore pray your honors to attach one tier of sections from off the north side of said Claridon Township to said Scott Township, thereby making tin- said townships equal, or nearly so, and we, your petitioners, as in duty bound, will ever pray, etc., etc. January 30, 1849." And said Commissioners being satisfied that said petition is signed by a, majority of the householders residing within the boundaries of the proposed change or alteration, and it having been proven to them that notice of such intended application had been i^iven by advertisement set up in three public places within the hounds of such proposed change or alteration, for the period of thirty days and more previous to this date, and it appearing necessary to said Board of Com- missioners, that so much of the territory of Claridon Township, in said county of Marion, as is included in Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 , in Township 5, south of base line, in Range 16 east, be and the same is hereby attached to and made part of Scott Township. Whereupon came Garry Clark, one of the householders residing upon said territory, and gave notice of his intention to appeal to the Court of Common Pleas.

This was accordingly done, aad in due time a bearing was had, the Commissioners' proceedings were duly reversed, and the territory restored to Claridon Township. But Claridon was called upon to make another struggle for the retention of this same territory. Scott Township had irretrievably lost two tier of sections from off its northern boundary, that then, as now lay in Crawford County, thus leaving it only twenty-four sections, or two-thirds of a regularly surveyed township, and its people seemed desper ately determined to acquire more territory. So in March, 1851, another effort was made to secure the same territory, as appears from the following entry :

This day the Commissioners of Marion County met pursuant to statute. Present, Thomas Parr and Hiram Knowles, Commissioners, and E. Peters, Auditor of Marion County, Ohio.

This day came S. C. Parcel, James Bell and others, and presented their petition to the County Commissioners in the words and figures following: "To the Commissioners of Marion County: We, the undersigned residents of Claridon Township, pray your honorable body that you will take one tier of sections from off the north side of Claridon Township and attach it to Scott Township, which will make them of equal dimensions; Claridon Township is six miles square, and Scott Township is four by six only. Your humble petitioners. January 31, 1851."

And the said Commissioners being satisfied that the said petitioD is signed by a majority of the householders residing within the boundaries of the proposed territory of land petitioned to be struck off from Claridon Township, and it having been proven to the satisfaction of the said Commissioners, by the affidavit of James Parcell, George Boyles, Jr., and James Osborn, that lawful notice has been given by advertising in three different public places, on said territory proposed to be struck off and attached to said township, of the intention of said petitioners, for the period of thirty days and more previous to the presentation of this petition, and it appearing necessary, just and right to said Board of Commissioners, that the alteration as prayed for in said petition should be made. It is therefore ordered by said Board of Commissioners, that so much of the territory in Claridon Township, in said county of Marion, as is included in Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 in Township 5, south of base line, in Range 16 east, be and the same is hereby attached to and made a part of Scott Town>hip. Whereupon came Garry Clark, James M. Brigs, two of the householders residing upon said territory, and gave notice of their intention to appeal the same to the Court of Common Pleas.

The appeal made, and after a careful view of the proceedings in the Common Pleas Court, that tribunal annulled the proceedings of the County Commissioners and restored the territory to Claridon Township, and no effort has since been made to disturb the boundaries of the two townships as was fixed and determined.

Of course these en trios do not show what part the citizens of both town ships outside of those on the territory in controversy did for its possession, but that the struggle was fierce and prolonged and that the citizens of both townships were much interested in the result, and that their influence and possibly some of their time and money were given to maintain their respective rights, there can be no doubt. Scott Township apparently laid no stronger claim to it other than that it would equalize the territory of the two townships, and Claridon did not seem disposed to yield quietly and submit passively to the loss of one-sixth of her valuable territory on such a flimsy pretext. Had Scott Township succeeded in securing and retaining this tier of sections, the village of Calodonia. which is now the pride of the township, would have been lost to Claridon, for it is located in Section 1 of this township.

Physical Features

The surface of the land throughout this territory is generally level, and the southern and eastern portion of the township consists of timbered lands, while the northwestern part includes a portion of the Sandusky Plains. The soil is excellent and unexcelled where thoroughly drained for farm: land or for grazing grounds to the hundreds of sheep and cattle kept here by stock -raisers. Much water stood upon the plains and other portions of the lands of this township at an early day, but a system of liberal drainage has relieved the surface of the greater portion of it and made the entire township tillable land that responds readily and generously to the efforts of the skillful husbandman. The Whetstone flows through the eastern por tion of the township, and not a few smaller streams and rivulets join it in its onward course.

Two Precincts

In December, 1863, this township was divided by the County Commissioners into two election precincts by a " parallel line running directly through said township east and west, said division line being marked by a township road leading through the center of said township east and west, just south of the residence of the late Jonathan Miles; the portion of thetownship lying north of said road to form the North or Caledonia Pracinct, and that portion lying south of said road the South or Claridon Precinct, of Claridon Township."

Early Settlement

The early settlers of this township for the most part were from England- Few of them are still living, while many others have passed away, leaving their descendants to enjoy the fruits of their early labor. Among the former is Joseph Hornby and wife, who came to this township in 1820 and located near where Claridon now is; also William Thew and hin wife, who came direct from England with other families, and all located near each other in the southeastern portion of the township, where they struggled together as a common community to establish permanent and comfortable homes. Success crowned their efforts, and prosperity attended and blessed their industry. Soon much of the gigantic forests were cleared away, and many broad acres of cultivated land appeared. Mr. Thew, who died in August last, outlived that entire number, his wife having died twelve or fifteen years ago, and the others, each one by one, have taken his chamber in the silent halls of death. (See Chapter II.)

The other early English settlers who located here were Vincent Douce and family, John Hinds and family, Matthew Fields and family, William Dickson, Mr. Warwick, Robert Boulton, George Bayles, John Hooten, George Welbourn, Mr. Sergeant, John and Michael Welbourn, William Parker, Henry Hatfield, Comfort Olds and famil}", Hugh Osborne, William Welbourn and others. Joshua B. Bearse. Amos Earl and James Lambert were also early settlers in and about the vicinity of Claridon. These all came between the years 1820 and 1823 and formed what would now be considered a sparse settlement, but which was then looked upon as quite a lit tie colony. And so in truth it was an English settlement of no small pretension, which at once gained the ascendenc\ that has ever since been maintained throughout the township, and to-day the descendants of those English settlers are in the majority there. The)' were a thrifty, industrious, economical, Christian people, whose work and principles have loft their imprint on the present generation, and nowhere in the county can be-

As early as 1821, they laid out a town near the Whetstone and strove to make it a suitable plac« for the county seat. The site selected was on the place then owned by Joshua S. Bearse, and was surveyed and platted by Col. James Kilbourne, which plat was duly recorded August 25. 1821. The location was a beautiful one, and at that time the center of the territory then constituting Marion County. The town was laid out in what was then considered magnificent style, covering an area of 102 acres, containing even at first nearly a 100 regularly laid out building lots, besides abundant territory for extra additions. In the center of the town, a large square was donated for a site for county building* and a park, or if not required for that, to be used for buildings for literary purposes. It contained avenue s and streets of no narrow dimensions, the former being six rods in width , while the latter assumed a breadth of four poles. This town was given the beautiful and historical name of

It was the first village or town platted within the limits of Marion County, Marion not having been laid out until in the following year. Is it strange that the good people of Claridon, having the largest settlement, perhaps, within the territory at that time, and being located near the center of the same, with a town of ample area already laid out in splendid style, with sufficient ground donated for county buildings, should expect and hope for the location of the county seat here at the organization of the county, which must needs soon take place? It certainly was no unreasonable expectation, and the hamlet soon began to grow and flourish. Dwellings began to be erected, shops built, and that ever essential structure - the log tavern - with its quaint appearance, arose and towered above them all. George Shippy was the genial and accommodating landlord, who then served the public and dispensed the substantial and wholesome food that was then obtainable to his guests, and, upon the whole, they no doubt fared equally as well as do the traveling public to-day in the more modern hotels. True then, meals then consisted of one plain course, but, doubtless, with its variety, no plum pudding, to strawberry short-cake, no highlyseasoned dishes graced the board of the early inn- keepers, yet what to them was far more palatable, the " pone," the venison, the " pumkin pie," were ever at haud, and were served in no sparing quantities. Among the early business men of the place were Mr. Broman, a cabinet-maker and furniture dealer; Mr. Norton, a tanner and vender of leather, both of whom did quite a business in his respective line. Ansel Matoon, from Worthington, was the village blacksmith, of whom it doubtlessly could have been truthfully said :

Other business and other trades were also here represented in a limited degree, and soon the village began to attract immigrants, and the prospects for the capital town of the new county grew quite flattering.

But there came a frost, a killing frost, and nipped the rising ambition of the little village in the bud, and left it to wither and decay, and even to this day only a comparatively few houses sland as a monument to mark the spot and tell the sad tale of blighted hopes and cheriehed desires of the early English settlers, at least so far as the securing of the county seat is concerned. For in the spring of 1823 a committee was appointed by authority of the State and sent out to select a suitable site for the county seat. After viewing the different localities and considering well the claims of each, the present site of Marion was decided upon as the most proper point. Marion had just recently been laid out, and at that time presented a less promising appearance than Claridon, but the wisdom of the selection has since been proven, as the division of the territory since made has placed it nearer the center of the county, besides other natural advantages. It is said that the settlement in Big Island Township maintained that the site where the village of Big Island now stands was the most suitable place, and made strenuous efforts to secure the location of the county seat at that place. Even for many years after its location at Marion, and yet after the town of Big Island was laid out in the year 1828, the people at that point long contended for its removal thither.

Claridon felt the blow at once, and the effect of the failure to secure the county seat was soon visible, for owing to this fact and the unusual sickness and death prevailing there during the autumns of 1822 and 1823, many removals were made and emigration in that direction ceased for a time. But it was only temporary.

Further Settlement

The country about Claridon, especially along the valley of the Olentangy, or the Whetstone, as it is more recently called, was too fertile and productive and possessed too many wild and enchanting beauties to be long neglected by those who were seeking desirable locations for homes, and while the village of Claridon never recovered from the shock mentioned, and while, for a number of years, it received but few aceessions, the country in that vicinity was being settled by a steady flow of immigrants. Among them were Thomas Boyce and wife, who came in 1828; William Mitchell and family came the following year and located about one mile and a half south of the village. John Underwood and family settled two and a half miles east in 1829. Also Peter Gable and Henry Holverstott, who came in 1830; Joseph Smith, James Lawrence and Charles Owens, who located in 1832; Jefferson Smith, Obadiah Miller, and Matthew -Fields, who, with their families, took up their abode here in 1834.

Numerous others came at a later date, and among them were Jacob Howser and family and Dr. J. W. Devore and family, the former from Harrison County, Ohio, and the latter from the neighboring county of Knox. They both located near the village of Claridon and both have been unusually prosperous, and they now number their possessions in lands by the hundreds of acres, and the live stock owned by them is of a superior quality. They are both honorable and influential gentlemen, and have done rnuch to forwai'd the material interest of Claridon Township. Each has his residence near the village of Claridon, and each is living in a comfortable manner and in handsome style. Dr. Devore was called upon to represent this county in the halls of legislation at Columbus in the years 1870 to 1872, and did so with much credit to himself and satisfaction to his constituents, leaving a record well worthy of high ambition, and one of which his friends may well be proud.

The northern portion of the township received a few settlers at an early date, but the settlements there did not at first increase as rapidly as the one around the village of Claridon. Capt. George Beckley in his reminiscences of the early settlement of the Whetstone Valley, in Marion County, Ohio, written by him and published in 1875, says that when he came to this part of the township with his father and his father's family in 1821, Daniel Wyatt and Thomas Van Horn lived near where Caledonia now stands. In fact, Caledonia is located on a part of the land then owned by them. He also speaks of Jeremiah Colden and Isaiah Mattix as haviug been employed by his father to erect his cabin, and, doubtless, they, too, were located near the same place.

Nathan Clark, his wife and a four-year old son, natives of Connecticut, came to this part of the township in the spring of 1820. Mr. Clark also entered a part of the lands on which Caledonia now stands, and located on the bank of the Whetstone, a short distance south of the site ot the town, where the family resided until in 1828, when they removed to the farm now occupied by the son, C. N. Clark. In June, 1812, C. N. Clark, Esq., married Miss Sarah Garberson, a daughter of William Garberson. one of the early settlers of this section of the county, and upon the farm just mentioned both families continued to reside until a short time before his death, when the old genleman moved to Caledonia, in which village he peacefully passed the evening of his life.

William Garberson, one of the old pioneers, who recently passed away, emigrated from Westmoreland, Penn., in 1823 with his wife and one child, and located here near the present site of Caledonia, and here started a tannery, which proved to be a great convenience in supplying the early settlers with leather, and also quite a source of revenue to Mr. Garberson.

George Ulsh, also a native of Pennsylvania, having been born in Perrv County, came, bringing with him his wife and four children, to Marion in the winter of 1828, and theie remained with his uncle, Maj. Ulsh, until the following spring, when he moved out on the farm on which he still resides. The farm was a portion of what was the " Turnpike Lands," which belonged to the "Columbus & Sandusky Turnpike Company. " and which then had just recently been established. Although this was in the year 1829, Mr. Ulsh was the first settler along that road or turnpike within the limits of Claridon Township. Mr. Ulsh's first cabin, intended, for temporary purposes only, was constructed of large poles; in dimensions it was about 12x16 feet, with stick chimneys, mud jambs, paper windows, etc, ; but in this the family lived four years, at the end of which time they erected a larger, more substantial, more convenient and more comfortable dwelling, which Mr. Ulsh "had erected near by, and in which the family kept tavern for a period of more than seven years; and received, for those days, consid erable patronage, as there was considerable travel at that time on the Columbus & Sandusky Turnpike running by Mr. Ulsh's place. Mr. Ulsh has since built a neat, substantial brick residence, which he and the remainder of his family now occupy. Benjamin Bell came to this township at an early day and located on Bee Run, and was one of the first settlers; also George Hollman, who then lived on apart of the place since purchased and owned by Mr. Ulsh. Christopher Croft came in about the year 1834, and located where his son, Samuel Croft, now resides.

Dr. Booth was one of the early doctors of this vicinity, and lived where Montgomery Lindsay now resides. Here the Doctor, in common with the practice of that day, freely administered extract of white oak and Peruvian bark, and jalap and calomel. Joseph and Philip Strawbridge lived near Dr. Booth's home.

crossing of the railroads, and within a year or two established and kept a public house for the accommodation of the traveling public, and for many vears it was known as Slick's tavern, and to this day the place is called "Slick's Station."

William S. Aye was the first whi+e child born within the limits of this township, he having been born January 19, 1821. His father, Jacob Aye, in the year 1820, entered the farm now owned by Mrs. Douce, and during that year he, with his wife, moved on to this place. They lived there but two or three years and then sold the farm to Vincent Douce, and at once entered another place, a little southeast of where Caledonia now stands. From thence, in a few years, they moved to the farm now owned and occupied by William S. Aye, just across the line in Canaan Township, Morrow County. From here, the family moved to Delaware County, where Mr. Aye engaged in running a mill for a short time, but soon returned again to the farm in. Morrow County, where Mr. Jacob Aye died in the year 1871.

Squirrel8

The early settlers of this township experienced much trouble, for the first few years, in protecting their crops from the ravages of the squirrels, which were so numerous that in a few days they would destroy and take a small crop of corn, such as our pioneer fathers then planted. Mr. Rice, an early pioneer, relates that in the spring of 1822, he planted four or five acres of corn, on a patch of ground he had succeeded in getting cleared, and it grew nicely and had nearly ripened, when the squirrels made a raid on it in droves, and in three days they had destroyed the entire crop, stalks, ears and all. Often, in those early days companies were organized and certain days set for all to assemble and take a grand squirrel hunt, and as a greater incentive and inducement, a prize was generally offered to him who would kill the greatest number of squirrels during such hunts. Mr. Rice. Mr. Olds, Mr. Aye were all excellent " shots " and very often their expeditions against the squirrels resulted in their securing about an equal number of these little animals. Nor was this the only game that then abounded. The original forests teemed with deer, pheasants and wild turkey, while the waters were covered with innumerable flocks of ducks and wild geese.

A number of the Wyandot Indians still lingered here at the commencement of the early settlement of the township. Among them were the noted Tom Lyons, " Standing Stone," "Between the Logs," and others.

The early settlers usually held their elections at some private residence. Two cabins in this township have been mentioned as having been used for this purpose. One was that of Mr. Gaylord, who lived a short distance north of Claridon, and the other was that of Niger Royce, who then lived in the northern part of the township, on the mud pike, near where the railroads now cross it.

The early settlers of Claridon Township, soon after location here, established schools and church societies, which fcr a time were held in the various cabins of these pioneers. Of the former, the first was taught by Rebecca Aye in her own house, during the summer of 1822. The wages, of course, were very meager, and for the most pari were paid in produce. The foregoing picture is one extreme; the other extreme is that of the present day, when a comfortable schoolhouse is provided in every neighborhood. Some of these rural academies are built and furnished at considerable expense. The Claridon brick schoolhouse in District No. 6, was built in 1875, at a cost of Dearly $4,000. It is two stories high and has two de partments. S. G. Smith is the Principal.

Claridon Methodist Episcopal Church. - The first religious sooiety in Marion County was of the Methodist Episcopal denomination, and was formed at the log cabin of Jacob Aye, near the village of Claridon, in the autumn or winter of 1820. This was prior to the erection of the county, and even before Claridon, the prospective county seat, was laid out. The society as it was first organized, was composed of seven members, viz., Vina] Steward and wife, Jacob Aye, Jr., Rebecca Aye and Henry Aye. Vinal Steward was a local minister and Class Leader. This society formed a part of Columbus Circuit of the Scioto District, Ohio Conference. Meetings were held at the house of Jacob Aye, Jr., until the spring of 1S23, and at the house of William Parker, Sr., until 1832 or 1833, when they erected ahewedlog house thirty feet square one mile northeast of Claridon and gave it the name of "English chapel." In 1855, the Claridon old church house was erected; it is 30x48 feet in size. The church has eujoyed a gradual prosperity since it was founded in the primitive forest, until it has attained a membership of sixty- eight. James Owen and James L. Douce are Stewards, and M. C. Aye, H. C. Garvin, William Haley and W. P. Wittred, Class Leaders. The

In the spring of 1846 or 1847, a series of revival meetings were conducted by Rev. William Nap, resulting in about seventy conversions. Many of the accessions to the church became ardent and substantial members.

Likins Chapel, Methodist Episcopal. - The society of this church was organized in 1857, at Showers' Schoolhouse, by Rev. T. H. Wilson. Tw -lve members constituted the society, as follows: Robert T. Clark and wife, James Zook and wife, John Little and wife, Shelby Jump and wife, Ami Cluff, Mrs. Starch, Mrs. Ann Brown and Mrs. Mary Harvey. Robert T. Clark was one of the first officials. The meetings continued to be held in the Shower Schoolhouse till 1871, when the present commodious building was erected. It is 34x40 feet in size, and cost $1,400. The society has a present membership of forty, and with Robert T. Clark and Thomas Cluff as Stewards and R. T. Patton and Ami Cluff, Class Leaders. In the spring of 1869, a series of revivals were conducted by Rev. A. D. Matthews, resulting in the conversion of over forty souls. Rev. G. E. Scott, in 1878, carried on revival meetings, and about forty more were converted and united with the church. Rev. S. Fant also enjoyed successful meetings during his pastorate. The following is a list of the pastors who have served this congregation, viz.: M. D. Chilson, 1871 and 1872; Stephen Fant. from 1872 to 1875; N. J. Close, from 1875 to 1877; G. E. Scott, from 1877 to 1879; T. J. Gard, from 1880 to 1881; and AV. Ben Taggart. the present pastor.

Claridon Free-Will Baptist Church. - The first meeting of this denomination was held December 5, 1870, by Rev. S. D. Bates, in the Morrow Schoolhouse. At the same place, July 2, 1871, Rev. Bates organized a church here, with nineteen members, comprising P. W. Holverstott and wife, L. J. Holverstott and wife, C Clendennen and wife, E. Rush and wife, C. L. Haines and wife, Mrs. J. Howser, Mrs. S. A. Curtis, Maria Howser, John Martin and wife and two daughters, and L. Clendennen. The official members were, Deacons, P. W. Holverstott and C. Clendennen; Clerk, L. J. Holverstott. A church building was erected on the mud pike near Clendennen's residence, and dedicated in the fall of that year, 30x45 feet, and costing $1,500; but, from some unknown cause, this building was burned during the summer of 1876, at midnight; no insurance. The people rallied and erected another building, about a mile south of the old one, dedicating it February 4, 1877. It is about two miles east of Claridon, where the mud pike crosses the Marion & Mount Gilead road.

The membership has numbered as high as fifty or more at one time; at present it is thirty four. Thev maintain a good Sunday school and a Woman's Mission Society. Rev. S. D. Bates has been pastor from the commencement to the present time. Deacons, C. Clendennen and P. W. Holverstott; Clerk, J. H. Howser.

Bright1 s Chapel, Church of the United Brethren in Christ. - This church was organized at the log meeting-house on the banks of the Whetstone, December 13, 1851, by Rev. William Mathers. Nine members con stitutyd the society. Among them were John Fields and wife, Matthew Fields, Sr, Matthew Fields, Jr., and William Mills. In 1860-61, the church at Claridon was erected, where they have since worshiped. The society has a membership of fifteen, and has in connection with its regular services a Sabbath school. The following pastors have served, viz., William Mathers, G. G. Nickey, James Long, J. Jacoby, T. T. Rose, J. F. Siler, and J. F. Cender, the present minister. The present Trustees are Andrew Hinds, William Garvin and E. D. Fields.

^7/The " Underwood Bury ing-G round" was laid out about 1835 as a private cemetery. There are now about a hundred graves contained within this inclosure, among them those of Adam Hines, a soldier of 1812, and Jesse Underwood, a soldier in the last war.

The " Gable Cemetery " is situated on the A. Gable farm, and is also a private burying ground. Here lie the remains of Joseph Wyant, a soldier of the last war.

The "Thew Graveyard," situated on the west half of the southwest quarter of Section 9, was laid out at a very early day and was used by the people as a public burying-ground. It contains about a half acre and contains the remains of many of the oldest pioneers of Claridon Township.

Present Status

The following report of the Assessor for 1883 gives some idea of the comparative agricultural standing of Claridon Township: Wheat, acres sown, 2,585; bushels produced, 35,974; number of acres sown for harvest

Caledonia

The first cabin erected on the present site of Caledonia stood on the west bank of the Whetstone, a short distance east of where the depot now stands. This, however, was before Caledonia was thought of as a town. In 1830, John Parcel purchased of Daniel Wyatt, the original proprietor from the Government, the land upon which Caledonia was originally laid out, and upon which a portion of it is now built, at a cost of $145 for forty acres. He a'- once cleared a few acres of the northern portion of the land, and a year or two later he opened a kind of a county store at a spot a short distance south of the little run that passes through the southern part of the town as it now stands, and by and by a little hamlet in the woods appeared at that point, and Mr. Parcel was not the only merchant, for William T. Farrington had also established a little store there.

In 1833, William T. Farrington bought twenty-two acres of land from John Parcel, a part of it being a portion of the forty acres just mentioned and a part of it from the north half of the west half of the northeast quarter, all of it, however, lying on the west side of the Whetstone. This twenty acres extended down near the south line of the original plat of Caledonia. In fact, it is a part of the southern portion of the original plat.

These stores supplied the settlers around here with many of the necessaries of life, and soon a demand was created for greater supplies, and in the early part of the following year, Mr. Farrington and others began to contemplate the propriety of laying out a town Accordingly, in December, 1834, William T. Farrington, Richard Wilson and Charles H. Weed purchased of John Parcel about five acres additional, paying therefor $100, which purchase is located and described as follows: " Being a part of the east half of the southwest quarter of Section 1, Township 5, Range 16, in Marion County, Ohio, commencing at a stake standing in the center of the two roads running north and south and east and west, near the store now owned and occupied by Hunter & Hipsher; thence west thirty-five rods; thonce south twenty-four rods; thence east twenty-three rods; thence north ten rods; thence east twelve rods; thence north fourteen rods to the place of beginning." At the same date, Richard Wilson and Greenville Cherry bought about one and a third acres of land from the same owner, John Parcel, at a cost of $300, the boundaries of which strip is given as follows: " Commencing twenty-four rods south of a stake in the center of the street near the store of Mr. Farrington; thence south eighteen rod3; thence west twelve rods; thence north eighteen rods; thence east twelve rods, to the place of beginning."

Upon these two lots of land and a small portion of the twenty-two acres formerly purchased of John Parcel by William T. Farrington, the town of Caledonia was laid out by these two men as proprietors, it having been surveyed and platted by Samuel Holmes, April 11, 1834, who was then Surveyor of Marion County; but it was not acknowledged by them until December 30, 1834.

The town in its original survey, contained thirty-three full lots of uniform size, they being 4x9 poles, and ten lots of various sizes, some along the river containing a half acre, while others comprised only one- eighth of an acre. A square of 10x12 poles was left vacant and the three principal streets, Marion, Main and Water, were made sixty-six feet in width. Lots were at once sold and houses erected thereon, and soon many of the different branches of trade were represented; also the professions to a limited extent. Dr. Disbrough was perhaps the first practicing physician of the place, and he was succeeded by Dr. Lee.

Since the town was originally laid out, there have been thirteen new additions made, and the number of town lots altogether now is 129, which in all extend over quite an area.

On the second day of September, 1873, a petition was circulated by J. Blanchard, signed by T. A. Cross and forty-eight other citizens of Caledonia, alleging that the town then contained a population of 500, and praying that it should be incorporated and given all the rights, privileges and immunities of an incorporated village. The prayer of the petition was granted by the Commissioners, and* on November 12, 1873, that dignity was duly bestowed upon Caledonia, and the following territory was incorporated within the boundaries of said village: "Beginning at the southeast corner of the east half of the southwest quarter of Section 1, Township Five (5), south of Bange Sixteen (16) east; thence on the half section line north to the northwest corner of lands owned by William Hinds, the same being the southwest corner of Ephraim Glatharts' lot; thence east to the old channel of Whetstone Creek; thence in the center of said channel, north to the section line, thence on said line west to the southwest corner of the graveyard; thence on the west line of said graveyard north to the northwest corner thereof; thence along the center of the old road north, 15 decrees east, to the north line of the southwest quarter of the northeast quarer of section, township and range aforesaid ; thence west 108 rods to the northwest corner of the southeast quarter of the northwest quarter of said Section No. 1, aforesaid; thence on the west line of said tract and on the west line of the east half of the southwest quarter of the section, township and range aforesaid, 234 rods to the southwest corner thereof; thence on the section line east 81 rods to the place of beginning."

January 12, 1877, the corporation boundaries were again extended and a small piece of territory between Water street and Whetstone Creek was annexed to the village, which is included in the following boundaries: " Beginning on the west bank of the Whetstone Creek at the northwest corner of lands owned by the heirs of William Hinds, thence eastwardly down said creek on the north line of said William Hinds' lands and lands of J. H. Coulter, excluding his flouring mill, following his east and south lines west to his southeast corner; thence west on the center of the State road to the east line of the present incorporated limits of said village on Water street; thence on said line north to the northwest corner of lands of the heirs of John Hinds aforesaid; thence on the north line of said lands east to the* place of beginning, including all the lands within said bounds except the mill as specified."

The first mill, which was a water-power mill, was built, together with the race, about 1834, by Mr. Parcel. It was only one story high and had two run of buhrs. It ran for some years, the only mill in this section of the country, except a tread-mill in Tully Township. It has long since been destroyed.

two stories high and had one pair of wheat buhrs and one of chopping. After running the mill until 1S67 or 1868, Mr. Harmon sold it to G. G. Freeman, who put in new works. A year or two afterward, he sold it to Frederick Fisher, by an assignee, who made some repairs and then sold to J. H. Coulter, Roberts, Rinker, McNutt and Coulter. J. H. Coulter now owns the Merchants' Mill.

Eureka Mills. - These were built in 1875, by W. J. Miller. It is a two and a half story structure, with three run of buhrs, costing $9,000. In the fall of 187G, it was purchased by Noah Lee and Silas J. Hipsher, who added another pair of buhrs and nearly all the present machinery. The en gine is 50 -horse power. Three men are employed to run it, and they manufacture both merchants' and custom flour. Capacity of the mills, forty barrels of flour per day.

A tilt & Apfs Saw and Planing Mill. - In 1874, G. W. Ault purchased a portable saw mill of Lee & Hipsher, and in 1875 he added a planing mill. At the same time, J. F. Apt and R. Th*jw became partners, under the style of Apt & Thew. In May, 1876, they established their present business. During the year 1882, they added the "Universal Wood- worker," and now the buildings cover an area of 120x35 feet. Recently Mr. Thew passed out of the firm, and the name has since been Ault & Apt. The mil] gives employment to twelve men, manufacturing building material of all kinds, and making a specialty of hardwood lumber. They deal also in all kinds of building material, both hardwood and pine, purchasing at wholesale sash, doors, blinds, etc. They enjoy a successful run of trade.

Warehouse And Elevators

In 1855, a warehouse, two stories high, was built by Carry Clark at a cost of $1,500, situated on the south side of the railroad. It was run until 1872, when it was moved further west and another story added by Carpenter, Webb & Co., who converted it into an elevator, ran it three years, and sold it to Charles Webb; the latter leased it to Harrison & Irey until 1877, when Underwood, Dilts & Co. leased and ran it until 1880. Then James. Carpenter purchased it and conducted the business there until March, 1882, when it was destroyed by tire.

The first merchant in Caledonia was W. S. Farrington, who laid out the town. He died while in business. R. & N. House came next and built a store, one and a half stories high, where the furniture store now is. They were succeeded by Lawrence Van Buskirk, for whom the post office was named; he was Postmaster from December 15, 1832, to April 23, 1842. Van Buskirk was succeeded by Greenville P. Cherry in the same building, who, about 1848, removed his stock to Galion, and three or four years afterward bought a store of Dr. J. M. Briggs, ran it a short time, failed and moved to Indiana, where he now resides.

Previous to 1848, probably in J846, Parcel & Hipsher started a store at Farrington's old stand; a year afterward Parcel was succeeded in the firm by Dr. Briggs, and the firm of Briggs & Hipsher continued two or three years, when Mr. Hipsher retired. Dr. Briggs in a few months sold out to Greenville P. Cherry.

About 1850, Capt. George Beckley established a store on a part of the ground where Rinker & Bush's furniture store now is, but closed in two years. He was succeeded by S. V. Harkness and he by Search & Dumble, who were burned out in 1858. Shurr & Bailey succeeded Cherry; a year afterward, Shurr retired, Bailey continuing two years alone, when he sold to Trusdell & Osborne, who moved their stock to Mount Gilead.

About 1855, Neal & McKinstry opened a store in Caledonia. Near the same time or shortly afterward, Henry Speaker erected a store building where Marggraf & Hind's store now is, and failed about 1857. Neal sold his interest to his partner, McKinstry, and the latter sold to Ruehrmund & McBride, who ran the store one year. Then Mr. Ruehrmund was alone until 1863, when he was succeeded by Bell & Hunter. H. A. Hipsher was a silent partner in the firm of Bell & Hunter from 1863 to 1871, when the firm changed to Bell. Hunter & Co.; in 1875 it became Hunter & Hipsher, when Mr. Bell moved to Marion.

In 1859, Messrs. Underwood & Hunter started in the Speaker building; in 1862, Hunter retired; the next year, Annis Whitaker was admitted as a partner, and the firm of Underwood & W hi taker continued until the death of the latter in February, 1866. Moses Carr bought Whitaker' s interest, April 17, following, but the next year he retired. In January, 1868, Mr. Underwood formed a partnership with his father, under the style of E. F. Underwood & Co. May 1, 1877, A. M. Dilts was admitted into the company, forming the firm of Underwood, Dilts & Co. , but since February, 1882, the firm name has been Underwood & Dilts. These gentlemen are now the principal merchants of Caledonia. In 1872, Neal & Kennedy started a store on Marion street, and two years afterward Mr. Kennedy retired, and in 1876 Mr. Neal failed.

In 1865, R. L. Highly established a tin and stove store on Water street, and in 1878 removed to Marion street, where he was burned out, July 23, that year.

In 1869, Kiefer Bros, started a hardware store on Marion street. They were succeeded by Milford Lewis; he by Apt & Highly in 1872; they by Campbell & Rice; subsequently Apt & Thew, and finally Mr. Thew became sole owner.

July 1, 1883, the merchants of Caledonia were Underwood & Dilts, Hunter & Hipsher, T. J. Anderson, Marggraf & Hinds; hardware merchants. R. Thew, T. W. Roberts. & Son and R. L. Highly; druggists, J. M. Coe and Kelly & Brook; grocers, John Hanly, O. L. De Shong, and J. P. Walterhus; furniture dealers, Rinker & Bush; dealers in boots and shoes, C. Pommert and R. Vannatter; proprietors of planing mill, Ault& Apt; livery stable keeper, R. C. Layton.

Caledonia Deposit Bank

This monetary institution was established July 24, 1883, with William Rowse as President, and J. T. Monnett, Vice President. The other stockholders are Josephus Monnett, E. B. Monnett and M. W. Monnett. C. H. Rowse is cashier. The bank has a capital of $25,000, while the stockholders represent $400,000.

The first venture in journalism at this place was made in June, 1875. by Will H. Warner and J. Blanchard, who continued to issue the paper, which was the Caledonia Argus, for a short time, when the firm changed. It finally passed into the possession of the present editor and proprietor, George Henness, who conducts it in a creditable manner.

During that time the Underwood brick block has been erected. It is 36x80 feet, two stories high, and cost $7,500. The Deposit Bank is in the northeast corner room on the first iloor, and stores occupy the other rooms, while in the upper story are two halls, one for the G. A. R. and I. O O. F., and one is occupied by the printing office. In 1880, the Temple Block was built by Kelly & Brooke and J. Blanchai'd. The third story, 50x70 feet in size, is owned by the Freemasons and Knights of Pythias. In 1868, H. Hunter erected a two- story brick on AVater street. In 1867. Anderson & Dunhill erected a two-story brick building near the railroad. It is now owned by Charles Webb, of Monroe. N. Y.

Conflagration

July 23, 1883, at 2:30 in the morning, there broke out the most destructive fire that ever occurred in Caledonia. It originated in T. J. Anderson's warehouse, from some unknown cause, and ceased not its insatiate fury until it had destroyed seventeen buildings, with much of their contents. Fire engines were telegraphed for from Marion and Gabon, which arrived in time to do good service. The area burned over is best described by naming the principal losers, as follows; T. J. Anderson. $5,000; J. W. Hinds, $2,500; R. L. Highly, $4,500; R. Thew, $10,500; Odd Fellows building, $2,000; Dr. Weeks, $2,000; J.' Hanley. $5.5u0; Jacob Weber, $3,200; J. M. Coe, O. L. DeShong, J. G. Wortman, Maris Hart and railway company, smaller amounts.

Caledonia Union Schools

Organized in April, 1873. The first Board of Directors comprised A. M. Dilts, Chairman; J. F. Apt, Treasurer; and Noah Lee, Clerk. The following summer, a two-story brick schoolhouse was erected at an expense of $13,000. The main building is 30x60 feet, with a wing 30x35 feet, and is situated on a plat of one and one-half acres, between North High and North Main streets. It contains six rooms besides the Superintendent's office. Until 1881, there were four departments of the school: since that date there have been five. From the time of organization to the present, there has been expended for teaching $16,000, besides $3,000 for other expenses. For the building of the schoolhouse, bonds to the amount of $8,000 were issued, to run ten years, interest payable semi-annually at 8 per cent, and the last bond was paid in October, 1883. The following are the Principals who have had charge of the schools: James A. K. Weber. 1874-75; G. W. Snyder, 1875 to 1877; Z. E. Rutan, 1877 to 1879; U. K. Guthery, 1879 to 1881; C. G. Harriman, 1881-82; Lewis Ranck, 1882 to 1884. The present School Board is composed of H. Hunter, Chairman; Noah Lee, Clerk; J. F. Apt, Treasurer.

The Methodist Episcopal Church, the oldest religious denomination at this place, was organized at the house of William Garberson about the year 1830, by William Garberson, G. P. Cherry, Isaac Cherry, Nathan Clark, and others. The following were some of the first members: William Garberson and wife, G. P. Cherry and wife, Isaac Cherry and wife, Garry Clark and wife, Nathan Clark and wife, John Lee and wife, Jacob Geyer and wife, Benjamin Bell and wife, Michael Welbourne and wife,

The first church was erected on the northeast corner of the public square in 1833. It was 35x40 feet in size and cost $800. This building was used until 1862, when it was disposed of and the proceeds went to a new house, which was built on the southwest corner of Church and Main streets. It is 40x50 feet in size, two stories high, and cost $2,500. The following is a partial list of the early pastors with the years they served: Harvey Camp and Philip Nation, 1834-35; Harvey Camp and J. W. White. 1835- 36. This appointment was a part of Marion charge for several years, then organized to Waldo and Westfield charge, and in 1872 was organized as the Caledonia charge, with its present limits. The pastors who have served since that time were B. F. Bell, 1872-73; S. R. Squiers, 1874-75; G. L. Hanawalt, 1876 to 1878; C. Baldwin, 1879-80: G. E. Scott, 1881 to 1883. Under the present organization, the following-named Presiding Elders served, viz., Henry Whiteman, 1872; John Whitworth, 1873 to 1876; Samuel Mower, 1877 to 1880; and A. Pollock, 1881 to 1883.

The church of Caledonia has a roll of 240 members. The present officers are W. Brocklesby, William P. Thew, J. G. Giddis and Joseph Fields, Stewards, with W. Brocklesby, Recording Steward.

The Thew Log Church. - In 1824, a round log church was built at Thew's graveyard and used for religious worship a few years. Revs. Gaff and Gilruth were pastors.

The First Universalist Church of Caledonia was organized in the Presbyterian Church building by Revs. Crosley and Root, February 17, 1867, with twelve members, viz., George Beckley, T. A. Cross, Mercy Parcel, J. W. Thatcher, S. M. Thatcher, James Miller, Mary Miller, Perry Kellogg, Daniel Lee, John Bentley, F. C. Beckley and Eliza Beckley. George Beckley and James Miller were elected Deacons; J. W. Thatcher, Secretary; T. A. Croes, Treasurer. Meetings were held at the Presbyterian Church until 1871, when the society erected a house of worship of their own on Water street, at an expense of $3,284.33. Universalist preachers, as Revs. George R. Brown, Frank Monroe, E. R. Wood and others, visited Caledonia in a very early day. The pastors since organization have been Revs. M. Cros by, one year; W. B. Woodberry, three years; E. Morris, one year; N. S. Sage, two years; E. R. Wood, one year; Frank Evans, three years; N. H. Saxon, two years; A. C. Lander, six months; B. F. Rice, six months; and J. D. Laner, two years. The present membership is thirty-five. Deacons: G. W. Ault and N. Lee; Secretary, S. H. Rice; Treasurer, Mrs. Jane Pitt man; Trustees, R. J. Monroe, G. W. Ault and Martin Koch.

Presbyterian Church. - This religious denomination was formed May 13, 1867, and elected A. W. Hayes, R. C. Layton and Augustus Marggraff Trustees; James McKinstry and Ebenezer Burt were the first Elders. The church has a present membership of eleven; David Christy and J. F. Morrow are the Elders.

The Catholic Church comprised about fifteen families soon after the war, but there are only seven families of that faith here now. They have a house of worship on Water street, erected in 1866-67, at a cost of about $800. Rev. John Mackey was the first priest.

The "Reformed Zion's Congregation, of Caledonia, to stand in connection with the Reformed Church in the United States," was organized a few years ago.

Secret Societies

Calanthe Lodge, No. 116, Knights of Pythias. - Dispensation was received January 28, 187U, and the lodge was organized by F. W. Brooke, A. J. Anderson and C. P. Bargar, with the following members: A. J. Anderson, P. C. ; C. P. Bargar, C. C. ; F. W. Brooke, V. C. ; J. M. Coe, P. ; J. M. McLaughlin, M. of E.; John Kail, M. of F. ; T. J. Anderson. K. of R and S. ; H. G. Cooper, M. at A. ; P. Meister, I. G. : S. White, O. G. ; C. E. Warwick, Albert Hines, J. M. Ball, W. Fell, E. A. Benfield, T. Layton, Samuel White and J. B. Her. The present M. at A. is L. Chamberlain; I. G. is F. W. Brooke; and O. G., W. C. Coulter. From the time of organization to December, 1881, the lodge met in the hall at the northwest corner of the public square, and since December 15, 1881, in their hall in Temple Block. The present membership is forty- four, and the officers are F. W. Brooke, D. D. G. C. ; J. M. Coe, P. C. ; E. S. Giddis, C. C. ; J. C. Hauser, V. 0.; W. S. Green, P.; George Henness, M. of F.; A. M. Dilts, M. of E. ; J. K. Rogers, K of R and S. The lodge has $1,200 in the treasury; meets Monday evenings.

Alpha Lodge, No. 1, Prudential Order of America. - This society was organized Setpember 8, 1881, by J. Blanchard and others, with over thirty members. First Eminent Ruler, W. S. Clark; Eminent Ruler, 1882, Mrs. M. E. Dilts; 1883. J. K. Rogers. The present membership is twentyeight, who meet every Thursday evening in Temple Block.

Oliver Lodge, No. 447, F. & A. M. - A dispensation was granted by tho Grand Master, July 26, 1870. On the 8th day of the following August, the lodge was organized by F. C. Ruehrmund, a Past Master of Marion Lodge, with ten members, as follows: Peter Beerbower, W. M. ; Oliver W. Weeks, S. W. ; William C. Neal, J. W. ; John Rice, Treasurer; Ernst Cauzler, Secretary; William T. Way land, S. D. ; Solomon Pittman, J. D. ; John Weiss and Jacob Rice, Stewards; and V. O. Harrison, Tiler. Bylaws were adopted and meetings were held in a rented hall in the second story of a two- story frame building standing on the northeast corner of the public square. On the 19th day of the following October, a charter was granted by the Grand Lodge in session at Springfield, Ohio. On the 4th day of November, of the same year, the lodge was constituted by Julius Strelitz, of Marion, Ohio, by a special proxy of the Grand Master of Ohio An election of officers occurred the same evening, resulting in the election of Oliver W. Weeks, W. M. ; John Weiss, S. W. ; William T. Way land, J. W. ; John Rice, Treasurer; William C. Neal, Secretary; Solomon Pittman, S. D. ; Jacob Rice, J. D. ; William Boughton and Joshua Crawford, Stewards; and George W. Ault, Tiler. These were duly installed into office by Julius Strelitz, of Marion. The lodge meets on the first arid third Monday evenings of each month, in their new hall on the south side of the public square, built in 1881. Present officers, George W. Ault, W. M. ; William Boughton, S. W.; J. A. Francis, J. W.; William W. Hinds, Treasurer; Noah Lee, Secretary; T. B. Rogers, S. D. ; J. D. Hinds, J. D.; John Gracy and S. B. Rice, Stewards; John Witcroft, Tiler.

Caledonia Division, No. 4, Sons of Temperance. - This lodge was organized by E. J. Bradley, of Cleveland, and dispensation received November 20, 1878. The first members under the dispensation were G. T. Harding. Daniel Lee, Ella Chambers, Streeter G. Smith, C. E. Criswell; Smith Woodcock, C. A. Beckley, W. A. Baldwin, W. W. Thew, Sarah Cunningham, T. B. Rogers, John Street, Mary Dilts, William Conaway, Warren Harding, C. P. Woodcock and Emma C. Boughton. The following persons.

Hinds; A. C, Ada Dorwin; J. S., Wilbur Tedron; O. S. C, Marggraf; P. W. P., D. B. Hart; D. G. W. P., D. B. Hart. This society convened for two years in the Webb Block, and since that time in the Temple Block. Wednesday evening is the time of regular meetings. The society has a membership of seventy, and is prosperous financially.

The orders of Knights of Honor, Legion of Honor and Grand Army of the Republic have each organizations here, but no account was ever received of them.

Caledonia Graveyard

This graveyard was laid out and dedicated to its solemn purpose about the year 1824-25. It is situated on the west bank of the Whetstone and within the corporate limits of the town. This was the first burying ground in the township, and many of the pioneer settlors of the Whetstone Valley now repose in its silent graves. It contains the remains of two or three patriots of the Revolutionary war, and one or more soldiers of the war of 1812. Time has obliterated the inscriptions on many of the marble slabs erected at the first graves, and some of which are crumbling and falling to the earth, leaving nothing but a little mound to mark the resting place of the honored pioneer. The following inscriptions were obtained from some of the most ancient tombstones, and no doubt many of them were intimately identified with the early history of Claridon and adjoining townships.

James Larrabee was born March 13, 1767, and died June 26, 1835. Mary Larrabee (his wife), born April 18, 1774, and died August 31. 1838. Phebe Van Buskirk, wife of William Van Buskirk, died May 31, 1839. aged thirty-six years and seven months. In memory of Mary, wife of George Plotner, who died October 12, 1834, aged thirty-one years. In memory of John C. Smith, who departed this life August 23, 1833, aged twenty-three years, nine months and sixteen days. In memory of Margaret Parcel, who died December 1, 1835. aged fifty-three. In memory of John Parcel, who died October 20, 1836, aged fifty-three years three months and seventeen days. In memory of William S. Farrington, who died at Cale donia, September 14, 1838. aged thirty years and five days. Eliza, wife of Nelson Farrington, died November 19, 1836, aged twenty years, eleven months and eight days. In memory of Samuel A. Porter, who died June 12, 1832, aged twenty-seven years. In memory of Massy, wife of John Irey, who died May 27, 1836, aged twenty-nine years. In memory of John Irey, who died December 20, 1837, aged eighty yeara, ten months and twentytwo days.

Caledonia Cemetery Association

This cemetery association was composed of the citizens of Caledonia and the surrounding country. A committee, consisting of J. L. Bell, Martin Koch and G. C. Rinker, was appointed and authorized to purchase grounds appropriate for a cemetery. Seven acres of land, situated on the east bank of the Whetstone, opposite the village, was secured at a cost of $1,300. The land was laid out in uniform lots and platted by Capt. George Beckley, and now affords an admirable burying place.

Village Officers

Mayors - F. C. Beckley was elected Mayor in April, 1874, and served until May 5, 1875, when he resigned and A. M. Dilts was appointed to serve until a special election June 10 following, when T. A. Cross was elected. E. F. Underwood served in 1876-1877; J. B. Harrison, from 1878 to December 3, 1879, when D. O. Smith was chosen at a special election. In April, 1880, he was re-elected. From April, 1882, to the present time, J. Blauchard has held the office.

Recorders - Smith Woodcock served from 1874 till April 19, 1876; C. P. Bargar from that time till May 1, 1881, since which date F. WBrooke has filled the office

Biographical Sketches

Most of the settlers of Claridon Township were poor, having barely means enough to enable them to purchase their lands at the Government price, get their families and household goods transported through the trackless forest to their lands. After they had succeeded in erecting their cabins, with persistent energy, they set to work, and the heavy forests, which were but a short time before the home of the red man, began to disappear. It was soon found to be one of the most fertile tracts in this section for agricultural purposes, and to-day is one of the best and richest divisions of the county. The subjoined personal sketches form a very important feature in the history of the township. They go to prove what industry and energy can accomplish, and lay down precedents which, if followed, will lead to most prosperous results.

JOHN W. ANSELMENT, is a native of Claridon Township, where he was born September 23, 1845, the son of Joseph and Catherine (Zuck) Anselment. His father was born in Germany and immigrated to America in 1829. He married i n Marion County, but moved to Missouri in 1866, where he died December 6, 1882. His wife was born in Ross County, Ohio, and died March 12, 1851. They were the parents of seven children, five surviving - Sarah, Rebecca, John W., Charles and Lydia. Mary and Catherine are deceased. Our subject obtained a fair education in the common school. and married, December 26, 1872, Rebecca J. Bird, daughter of Simon and Mary (Starr) Bird, and five daughters were born to them - Ettie M. , born September 20, 1874; Maude E., December 23, 1876; Leotie, September 22, 1S<9: Blanch, January L7, 1881; and Alzora, February 23, 1883. Mrs. Anselment was born October 31, 1852. Mr. Anselment has always pursued the avocation of farming, and so successfully that he owns to-day (1883) 323$ acres of fine land, valued at $75 per acre. Himself and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics, he is a Republican.

GEORGE W. APT, mechanic, is a son of Harry and Sarah (Klinefelter) Apt, natives of Pennsylvania. He was born in Canaan Township, Morrow County, Ohio, March 21, 1851. He spent his early life upon a farm and obtained such an education as the common schools afforded. He was married, July 14, 1872, to Miss Ada Osborne, a daughter of James S. and Minerva (Hipsher) Osborne. They have had dve children - Laura, born May 16, 1873; Merta, born September 26, 1876; Loberta, born July 27, 1878; Pearl, born May 2, 1881; and Mabel, born July 7, 1883. Merta and Mabel are deceased. When seventeen, Mr. Apt took up the carpenter trado, and has followed it successfully ever since. He owns an attractive residence on Watts street, Caledonia, and is an industrious and respected citizen. He is a prominent member of the I. O. O. F., having passed through all the chairs; is filling the office of Dictator in the K. of H. ; is a Republican and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

CAPT. JACOB F. APT, of the firm of Ault & Apt, is a native of Marion County, and was born February 25, 1836. He is a son of Henry and Sarah (Klinefelter) Apt, of German lineage and natives of Pennsylvania. They came to this county before marriage, the former in 1824, in his eighteenth year. They were married in 1834, and were the parents of seven children, four surviving - Jacob F., John W., Sampson and George W. Harry W , James K. and Sarah E. are deceased. Capt. Apt obtained only a limited education, and mastered the carpenter's trade before his twentyfirst year. April 23. 1857, he married Mary J. Deardorff, daughter of Henry and Catherine (Collins) Deardorff. The former was of German and the latter of Irish ancestry. Their two children are John C. , born February 5, 1858, and Franklin S., born November 28, 1860. The Captain enlisted in the defense of his country, December 16, 1861, in Company D, Sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. His company was detached from this regiment, and, together with Companies A, B and C, was sent to Fort Laramie, W. T., "to protect the innocent and valuable. " He continued on frontier duty during all the service. He was Second Duty Sergeant, by first appointment; then Quartermaster Sergeant about one year; then Second Lieutenant in 1863, serving nearly two years, and was appointed Captain and assigned to Company I, Eleventh Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, in the summer of 1864, continuing as such to the close of the war. He was discharged at Omaha, Neb., May 6, 1865, then of the Eleventh Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. He participated in a number of battles with the Indians, and was a good soldier and officer. Since returning, he has been busy in various pursuits, always making a success in whatever he turned his hand to. He was Trustee of the township two years, one of the first elected Councilmen of Caledonia, serving six years, and a member of the School Board ten years. He belongs to the I. O. O. F., to the K. of H. , to the Republican party, and, with his wife, to the Methodist Episcopal Church.

GEORGE W. ATJLT, of the firm of Ault & Apt, was born in Belmont County, Ohio, February 7, 1837, the son of John A. and Leah (Nace) Ault, of German and French descent respectively, and natives of Ohio and Penn sylvania. His grandparents on both sides were natives of Pennsylvania. Mr. Ault having acquired a fair practical education, "went West," engaging in various pursuits, such as lumbering, teaming, etc. He was a member of a company thai, made the county seat, Iola. of Allen County, Kan. He returned, after an absence of four years, August 25. 1862. He enlisted in the late war. Company D, Eighty-second Regiment Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry, and participated in the following battles: Gettysburg, Lookout Mount- ain, Mission Ridge, and through the entire Atlanta campaign. He was Wagon Master, having in his care at one time thirty-three wagons. He was also assigned to the artillery corps, having in charge the ammunition train, until the close of the war. He served nearly three years, was engaged in nearly all the severe battles, was never captured nor wounded, and honorably discharged at Columbus, Ohio, June 27, .1865. He married, in June, 1866, Miss Maggie Lee, a daughter of John C. and Louisa (Spurgeon) Lee. Two children were born, both deceased; and the wife died in 1869. He married again, September 30, 3873, Annie Hays, daughter of Alexander and Rebecca (McKinstry) Hays, and one heir was born to this union - Milford H - dying at the age of one year. His wife died January 16, 1875. He married for his third wife Mintha Ault, a daughter of Washington and Louisa (Wilson) Ault, and two children were born to them. Howard L., born September 14, 1880, survives. Mr. Ault established himself in his present business in 1875. In 1876. he admitted Jacob F. Apt and Richard Thew into partnership. The firm then bore the name of Ault, Apt & Thew. They did an extensive business; Mr. Thew retired in 1878. The firm is still doing a large business under the name of Ault & Apt, employing twelve hands on the average. They deal in lumber, sash, frames, etc. Mr. Ault is an enterprising citizen, Master Mason in the Masonic order, member of the K. of H., of the G. A. R. , of the Republican party, and, with his wife, of the Universalist Church.

MELVILLE C. AYE, second son of William S. and Sarah J. (Mitchell) Aye, was born in Canaan Township, Morrow County, Ohio, July 24, 1851. His father, of German stock, was the first male white child born in Claridon Township, which important event took place September 19, 1821. His wife, of Irish extraction, was born in Ross County, Ohio, March 27, 1829. Mr. Aye, whose name heads this paragraph, secured a love for learning in the district schools of his native township. He attended the Ohio Wesleyan University in the autumn of 1869, teaching the subsequent winter. He then turned to farming, and November 18, 1874, he formed a partnership for life with Miss Arminda J. Devore, eldest child of Dr. Devore. Their two children are OdaD., born November 17, 1876; and an infant, born July 10, 1883. Mr. Aye is a Democrat in matters of politics, and was elected Trustee of the township in 1880. He is a class leader of the Methodist Episcopal Church and a liberal supporter not only of his own church, but also of all charitable causes.

MORRIS J. AYE, son of William S. and Sarah J. (Mitchell) Aye, was born in Canaan Township. Morrow County, Ohio, February 26, 1849. He attended the district school and finished his educational career at Mount Gilead at the age of nineteen years. He made his father's home his place of abode until he married, January 13, 1876, Miss Elizabeth Jacoby, a daughter of Michael and Elizabeth (Worline) Jacoby. Two children are the fruit of this marriage - Florence E., born November 1, 1876; and Elias J., born December 14, 1879. Mrs. Aye was born July 20, 1849. The subject of this sketch has been engaged exclusively in farming and rearing graded stock, principally sheep and horses. He has ninety acres of arable land, valued at $70 per acre. He is an industrious citizen, and a Democrat.

MRS. ELIZA BECKLEY (Capt. George Beckley's widow), was born in Williainsport, Lycoming Co. , Penn., February 4, 1812, the daughter of Thomas and Sarah (Corns) Miller. Her father was a native of England and her mother of New Jersey, and both of Irish extraction. Captain and

Mrs. Beckley were joined in marriage in the winter of 1882, and four children blessed their union - John, foreman in an extensive manafacturing establishment at Springfield, Ohio; Andrew, engaged in mining in Nevada; Frank C. , recently elected Sheriff for this county; and Emerline, wife of Jacob Thomas, of Springfield, Ohio. Capt. Beckley was a highly respected and very useful citizen; he was accidentally killed, May 13, 1878, on the New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad. His widow is an estimable lady, hale and hearty for her years. She is a member of the Universalist Church.

SAMUEL BERRIDGE, stock-dealer, a native of Nottinghamshire, England, was born March 10, 1818. He is a son of William and Sarah (Thorp) Berridge, who immigrated to America in 1851. They settled in Claridon Township, where they resided fourteen years; then removed to Illinois, and three years and a half later to Kansas, where they now reside. They had nine children, all of whom are living. Our subject was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools. He was married. August "21, 1869, to Alcinda A. Irey, a daughter of John and Ann (Hornby) Irey, both deceased. Mrs. Berridge is the only surviving member of a family of six -children. Mr. and Mrs. Berridge have five children - Sarah E. , Flora, Abbie M. . Mistie and Charles. Mr. Berridge, our subject, devoted his energies to the farm until 1873, when he moved to Caledonia and began buying and shipping stock. He is doing a thriving business, and is well known throughout the county. He is a stanch Republican and a member of the F. & A. M.

JOHN BLANCHARD, Mayor of Caledonia, was born in Yorkshire, England, June 15, 1815, the son of Raimes and Ann (Mason) Blancha d, who immigrated to Ame ica in 1850, settling in Scott Township, and locating upon land now owned by Joseph Mason. They were the parents of three children, our subject being the only surviving one. Robert M. and George W. were both soldiers in the late war, the former having enlisted in June of 1861 in Company C, Eighth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry; participated at Bull Run, Gettysburg, the siege of Vicksburg, and many other hard-fought battles. In a skirmish he detected a rebel taking steady aim at him; both fired instantly, the rebel was silenced and our hero received his bullet between his second and third fingers, and had his arm shattered to the elbow. This occasioned the amputation of the arm at onc«, and he was discharged from further duty. He applied, however, for further service, but was rejected on account of disability. He settled in Fayette County and died while serving his second term as Clerk of the Courts. His brother, George W., having enlisted August 2, 1862, in Company D, Ninety-sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, was killed in a battle at Grand Coteau, La. , November 3, 1863. Mr. John Blanchard, having acquired a fair education by attending the Bucyrus Schools two terms, taught three or four winters, and having moved to Fayette County, com meneed the study of law under the instruction of Charles A. Palmer, continuing one year. He then returned to his former home, assisting his mother about the farm. In the autumn of 1871, he located at Caledonia in the photograph business, following it successfully one year. Hh then commenced the practice of law, having been commissioned Notary Public December 21, 1872. He has been doing a good business since, and was the principal mover in incorporating the village of Caledonia. He was elected Justice of the Peace in 1879, and re-elected in 1882; also Mayor in 1879. He owns a beautiful residence on Main street, and has accumulated a good property. January 1, 1873, he married Hannah E. Black, daughter of William and Lydia (Rice) Black, natives of the Buckeye State. Her mother was born July 20, 1820, and died February 9, 1863; her father is still living, a resident of Morrow County, Oliio. They were the parents of five children, four living - Hannah E., Henrietta, Samuel and Isabel. John died in January, 1863. Mr. Blanchard and wife are the parents of Maude M. and Claude R. Mr. Blanchard's history is largely associated with the growth and development of the municipal affairs of Caledonia. He is always ready to aid every public improvement. He was founder of the Supreme Lodge of the Prudential Order of America. He is a Democrat, and. with his wife, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

CASHIUS BOYNTON, a son of Amos and Mary A. Boynton, was born on the old homestead in Claridon Township October 10, 1852. He was brought up on a farm and received his education in the common schools. He married, March 29, 1877, Miss Rachel Alban, a daughter of John and Jeanette (Carr) Alban, residents of Wyandot County, Ohio. Two children have blessed this union - Emma L., born March 4, 1878; and Charles O, January 27, 1880. Our subject is an enterprising young man, and has the charge of a part of the home place of ninety-three acres. In politics, ho is a Republican.

WILLIAM BROCKLESBY was born .in Lincolnshire, England, December 30, 1833. He is the son of William and Emma (Thew) Brocklesby, who immigrated to this country in 1844, locating in Claridon Township. Being a wagon and carriage maker, he bought property, and located in Claridon. where he lived and died. They had five children, of whom two survive - William, our subject, and Robert, a resident of Morrow County. Ohio. John, Bettie and Emma M. are deceased. The father was born February 29, 1807, and died in June of 1878. The mother was born about 1809 and died in 1844. William having obtained the rudiments of an education, lived with his uncle, William Thew, from his tenth year to his marriage, which took place January 1, 1856, to Miss Abigail Curtis, a daughter of Joseph and Mary (Wondhouse) Curtis, natives of England. Eight children have been born to them, four living - Joseph C, born Feb ruary 19, I860; Emma, May 15, 1863; John B., October 22, 1865; and Ella A.. November 2, 1878. William T. was born December 29, 1857, and died October 25, 1874; Charles Y., born July 1, 1868, died October 25, 1877; .Mary O., born August 9, 1875, died October 28, 1877. An infant died unnamed. Their mother was born June 3, 1835 Mr. Brocklesby is one of the leading farmers of the township, having the control of and owning 410 acres of arable land. He is an enthusiastic Republican, serving the township as Trustee for eight years; he also made a creditable race for County Commissioner one year, and in 1882 for Infirmary Director. His brother, John Brocklesby, enlisted in 1862, in Company B, One Hundred and Twenty-first Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was wounded at Kenesaw Mountain and died in a hospital at Nashville, Tenn. , and his remains lie in the United States Cemetery at that place. Mr. Brocklesby, the subject of this paragraph, is a member of the I. O. O. F., and, with his family, of the Methodist Episcopal Church; has belonged to this denomination thirty-four years, been class- leader fifteen years, and its Recording Steward twelve years. He is a useful citizen, exemplary in life, and an honored gentleman. The portrait of Mr. Brocklesby appears on another page of this volume.

to Caledonia and worked at the carpenter's trade and such other employment as came to hand, for one season, when he engaged with C. C. Rinker to work at the cabinet business, which he had previously learned. After continuing for nine years as an employe, he became a member of the firm, carrying on a successful business, theirs being the only establishment of the kind in the place. Our subject was married April 23, 1879, to Mary L. Rinker, a daughter of G. C. and Sophia Rinker, of German extraction. The names of the two children are Charles L., born June 6, 1880; and Loreta S., born February 4, 1883. Mr. Bush is an energetic and respected citizen, a member of the I. O. O. F., and of the Democratic party.

JOHN CHRISTANZ, merchant tailor, was born in Geluhaussen, Germany, May 9, 1831, the son of John and Barbara (Roush) Christanz. He came to Marion County in 1868, engaging to work in the stone quarry and in masonry three years, but at the end of that time he moved to Caledonia and engaged in tailoring, which he has continued to prosecute sines, conducting a flourishing business, employing at present three hands regularly. He was married, April 24, 1861, to Maggie Ort, and the names of their two children are Nellie, burn August 7, 1859; and Katie, born December 1, 1861. Their mother's demise occurred October 17, 1864. John Christanz again married in the spring of 1865, Catherine Haberman, a daughter of Conrad Haberman, who died in Germany. Catherine came to America in 1868. Mr. Christanz has a good education, is an industrious citizen, a successful business man, a member of the Druids, of the German Army (formerly), of the Democratic part\- and of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

WILLIAM N. CLARK, first 'son of Charles N. and Sarah (Garberson) Clark, was born at Caledonia May 22, 1843. He obtained bis education in the Caledonia Schools, and remained with his parents until his thirtieth year, when he married, January 1, 1874, Mary L. Douce, a daughter of Robert and Elizabeth (Thew) Douce. Four children have been born to them, three surviving - Bertha, Elizabeth S. and Charles N. Harriet A. died July 25, 1882. The mother was born January 23, 1850, and died November 24, 1882. Mr. Clark has always devoted his attention to agriculture; he owns a farm of 112 acres of valuable land, estimated at $100 per acre He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and affiliates with the Republican party.

JEROME N. CLINE, only son of William H. and Rachel (Darst) Cline, is a native of Claridon Township, where he was born February 3, 1852. He obtained such an education as the common schools of his day afforded, and was married to Clara A. Maxwell August 10, 1879. She was born September 25, 1862, and is the daughter of Johnson and Nancy J. (Stanton) Maxwell, natives of Marion County and residents of Richland Township. The names of their two children are Harry A., born August 24, 1881, and Orra M. . born July I, 1883. Mi*. Cline is a promising young farmer, having sixty acres of arable land worth $60 per acre. He belongs to the Democratic school of politics, and, with his wife, is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Claridon, of which he is a liberal supporter.

WILLIAM H. CLINE (deceased) was born in Marion February 20, L828. His father, Abraham Cline. was among the first settlers of Marion, a tanner by trade, living there until his decease, about 1853. at the age of thirty-five years. His wife. Nancy (Moore) Cline, died only a few days prior. The subject of this memoir resided with his uncle, Henry Cline, in Delaware County, Ohio, until be was wedded. January 2T>, 1850, to Rachel Darst, a daughter of William and Rebecca (Moyer) Darst. Five of their six children «[rew to maturity - Priscilla J., born May 10. 1851; Jerome N. see sketch); Caroline M., September 2, 1856; and Martha E., July 8, 1859. Laura J., born October 1, 1861, died December 20, 1862 Mrs. Cline was born in Fairlield County, Ohio, February 13, 1829. Our subject enlisted in his country's defense May 10, 1861 , in Company H, Fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He fought at Rich Mountain, July 12, 1861, and lit Beverly, Va., the next day. He was taken sick at Washington, and after lingering three mcnths with chronic diarrhoea and knowing death was imminpnt, wrote to his wife, their circumstances being moderate, not to be to the expense of bringing his remains home. His death occurred at Camp Chase, Ohio, October 17, 1862, and his body was buried in the National Cemetery at Washington. Their six children were left to the care of his widow. He bequeathed also his farm of 149 acres. Mrs. Cline has reared and educated the children in a worthy manner. She also receives a pension of $8 per month, and holds a membership in the Methodist Episco pal Church of Claridon.

AMI CLUFF is a native of Canada, born November 26, 1834 the son of Josiah L. and Olive (Lester) Cluff. The former is a native of Vermont and the latter of Canada. They were married in Canada, remaining there several years, then they came to Ohio, settling near Cardington, Ohio, where they resided until 1856. Two of their seven children are living - Lenora and Ami. The deceased were Lucinda, Weltha, Isaac, Thomas and David. The father died in 1856; the mother survived until May 10, 1876. Mr. Ami Cluff, having secured such an education as the common schools afforded, married, January 13, 1856, Joanna Jumf, a daughter of Shelby and Eunice (Slyter) Jumf, natives of Maryland and Vermont respectively. They were married in Pleasant Township, February 14, 1836. He settled here in 1834, on a portion of the land now occupied by the city of Marion. He was a large land-holder and well known throughout the county. His death occurred October 29, 1879, but his widow, born January 3, 1813, still survives, residing with the subject of this sketch. Mr. and Mrs Cluff have four children - Olive E., born October 18, 1856; Weltha A., January 16, 1858; Thomas H, April 19, 1859; and Walter S., December 31, 1860. Mr. ClufT has a tine farm of 100 acres, valued at $75 per acre. He served one year in the civil war, but was discharged for disability. He was a member of Company D, Sixty-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was elected Trustee of the township in 1880, and is acting in that capacity at present. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he votes the Democratic ticket.

JOHN CRISSINGER, lumberman, only son of Daniel and Mary (Plotner) Crissinger, was born in Scott Township April 26, 1837. His father, a native of Pennsylvania, was born January 1, 1807, and came to Marion County. He married and settled in Tully Township. They were the parents of two children - John and Mary. The father's demise took place in 1845; the mother still lives upon a part of the old homestead, with her daughter, Mrs. Frederick Winch. Our siibject obtained only a limited education, for he was dependent upon his own resources. When aged thirteen years, he labored one year for his uncle, Daniel Crissinger, receiving $37. He worked here and there until his marriage. November 22, 1859, to Mrs. Margaret Dunham, a daughter of Daniel and Catherine (Gotner) Ganshorn. They have had two children - Daniel R. , born December 10, 1860; and an infant son deceased. Mrs. Crissinger was born in Germany December 22, 1836, and came with her parents to this country in

1846. Her father died in Caledonia June 3, 1872; and the mother is a resident of Tully Township. In 1803, our subject moved to Caledonia, engaging in the grocery business about a year; then, after an interval in the grocery business, shipping in one year 133,000 pounds of pressed poultry. At present he is extensively engaged in the lumber business, having the leading lumber trade in the county. He employs fifteen men and four teams regularly. In politics, he is a Democrat.

JOHN H. CRISWELL, M. D., was born in Morrow County, Ohio, December 22, 1 850, the son of George and Hannah (Ackerman) Criswell, na tives of M aryland and New York respectively. They came to Ohio soon after the war of 1812 and settled in Knox County. John H. Criswell is the eldest of seven children, and having obtained a good education in the Mount Gilead High School, began teaching in his seventeenth year, continuing five years. He then 'took up the study of medicine, in December. 1872, under the direction of Dr. N. Tucker, of Mount Gilead, and read three years. In 1874-75, he attended a course of lectures at the Starling Medical College, also at the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery, graduating June 19, 1876. In the autumn of the same year, he settled at Caledonia and has established a good practice. January 28, 1874, he mar ried Miss Cassie E. Barton, a, daughter of Samuel and Mary Barton, of Mount Gilead. Dr. Criswell is Supreme Medical Examiner of the P. O. of A. for the United States He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and A. L. of H. ; he is also a member of the City Council. His politics are Democratic.

JOHN CBOFT was born in "Crawford County, Ohio, October 27, 1843, the son of Christopher and Catherine (Clink) Croft, natives of Germany, and immigrated to America about 1831, stopping in Trumbull County, Ohio, for a short time, then coming to Crawford County, where they remained several years, but settling permanently in Marion County. They had a family of thirteen children, eleven now living - Catherine, Eliza, Lewis. Caroline, Mary. Elizabeth, Hannah, Christian, John, Susan. and Samuel. Jacob and Lydia are deceased. The father died in his eightieth year; the mother in her sixty-eighth year. John Croft, having received a limited education, turned his attention to farming until his marriage, which took place February 2, 1871, to Sophia A., daughter of George and Caroline (Wagman) Pfahler, who was born March 79, 1849. , They have three children - Emeline, born April 18, 1872; Ida, November 7, 1874; and Mary C, November 11, 1878. Mr. Croft is the owner of 103 acres of good land, valued at $100 per acre, upon which he has recently erected suitable buildings. He has acquired the property principally by his own hands. He is a respected citizen and in politics a Democrat.

SAMUEL CROFT, fifth son of Christopher and Catherine (Chink) Croft, is a native of Ciaridon Township, born August 27, 1852. Having secured an ordinary education, he made his home at his father's until marriage, which occurred April 12, 1867, to Miss Lillie Brown, a daughter of Christian and Catherine Brown, natives of Crawford County, Ohio. Two children have crowned this marriage - Flora L.. born January 23, 1878: and Clara E., born March 23, 1881, dying September 7, 1881. Mr. Croft has been a farmer from his youth up. and has a farm of 113| acres, valued at $70 per acre. He is an energetic young man and a stanch Democrat.

MRS. SARAH E. CURL, widow' of Henry C. Curl, and daughter of George and Elizabeth Bates, was born near Caledonia January 28, 1847. Her husband was born April 10. 1844, and they were married October 13, 1870. Four children were born to them - Lillie J., born July 28, 1871;

Mary F., October 31. 1872; and Alonzo C, April 14, 1874; Cora D. was born June L3, 1875, and died December 14, 1879. Mr. Curl was reared and educated upon a farm in Morrow County. He was a good citizen, a stanch Republican and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His death occurred January 3, 1875. His widow resided in Morrow County until April 1. 1880, when she moved to Caledonia, purchasing a good home on North High street, where she continues to reside with two of her children. She owns a small farm in the above county, and is a respected and industrious lady.

HON. JAMES W. DEVORE, M. D., is a highly respected citizen of Claridon Township, born in Knox County, Ohio. May 16, 1827. His father, Cornelius Devore, was born in Pennsylvania September 17, 1789, of French descent; his mother, Mary (Porter) kDevore, was born in Maryland January 17, 1795. of English extraction. They were married in the latter State and moved to the above county in Obio, about 1818, stopping until 1839, when they came to near Mount Gilead, Morrow County, Ohio There were born to them seven children, three still surviving - Samuel, James W. and Nancy. The deceased were Jacob, Sarah and two infants. Mrs. Devore died September 21, 1843; and Mr. Devore survived her until May 5, 1852. Dr. Devore, having attended the common schools of his day and some select schools at Woodbur}', Ohio, commenced reading medicine in 1847 under the instruction of McWright & Geller, of Mount Gilead, Ohio, graduating at the Eclectic Medical College, Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1850, and locating in Claridon Township for parctice in August Lof that year. For thirty-three years he has had an extensive and successful ride. April 10, 1851, his wedding nuptials with Miss Ann E. Martin, born October 28, 1832, were celebrated. She is the daughter of Lewis and Eliza beth (Kimble) Martin, natives of Pennsylvania, of German and English ancestry, who were early settlers of Ashland County, Ohio, and came to Marion County in 1850. Six children were born to the above union - Arminda J., born February 13, 1852; Flora L., October 9, 1855; Martha E., Jan uary 18, 1858; Minerva V., April 20, 1860; Mary E., August 12, 1863; and Juliett P., January 15, 1854. Dr. Devore is one of the principal farmers of Claridon Township, owning 700 acres of arable land, which he has acquired by his practice and industry, not $1 having been bequeathed him. He makes a specialty of fine graded stock of all varieties. Politically, he is a Democrat. He represented Marion County in the State Legislature daring 1870-71; he is also a member of the F. &. A. M.

AUSTIN M. D1LTS, the son of Peter and Sarah (Knight) Dilts, was born in Muskingum County, Ohio, July 13, 1838. He is a merchant at Caledonia, Ohio, of the firm of Underwood & Dilts, dealers in dry goods, groceries, etc. Having obtained a practical education in the common t.chools, he remained with his father farming until his twenty-third year, when he embarked for himself, laboring upon the farm four years. In 1864, he moved to Caledonia, acting as foreman over a party of men who were improving the public highways. He continued at this business, working for a salary, four years; since then he has been a merchant at the above place. February 2, 1870, he married Miss Mary E. Boyer, daughter of William and Sarah (Plotner) Boyer, natives of Crawford County, Ohio. The father died there in 1878, but thn mother still survives him, living upon the old homestead. Mr. Dilts is a prominent and well respected cit izen, and is largely identilied with the interests of his village. He served as Chief Magistrate three years, and is at present member of the Town

Council. He is a member of the Democratic party, of the I. O. O. F., of the K. of P., of the Prudential Order of America, and, with his wife, of the Methodist Episcopal Church.