Clinton Township (part 12 of 18)

Organization

" Seo. I. Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of Ohio, That all that part of the lands lately ceded by the Indians to the United States shall be, and the same is hereby, erected into fourteen separate and distinct counties, to be bounded and named as follows : 1st. To include townships one, two, and three, in the first, second, third, and fourth ranges, and to be known by the name of Van Wert. 2d. To include all of said ranges south of said township to the northern boundaries of the counties heretofore organized, and to be known by the name of Mercer. 3d. To include townships one and two south, ami one and two north, in the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth ranges, and to be known by the name of Putnam. 4th. To include all of said second townships to the northern boundaries of the organized counties, and to be known by the name of Allen.

" Sec. 11. That the counties of Crawford and Marion shall be attached to the county of Delaware ; the county of Hardin shall be attached to the county of Logan ; the county of Allen shall be attached to the county of Shelby; the counties of Van Wert and Mercer shall be attached to the county of Darke; the counties of Hancock, Henry, Putnam, Paulding, and Williams shall be attached to the county of Wood ; and the county of Seneca shall be attached to the county of Sandusky, until otherwise directed by law."

The county of Lucas came from the territorial conflict between Ohio and Michigan in 1835-6, and was named in honor of Governor Robert T. Lucas.

Defiance, Pulton, and Auglaize counties were subsequently erected from territory embraced by the counties organized by the act of February, 1820.

Miami County, including Shelby, was embraced within the jurisdiction of Montgomery Countj' until January 16, 1801, when it was detached ; and Staunton, near the present village of Troy, became the seat of justice. Here the first session of county commissioners convened at the house of Peter Felix, July 1, 1807. The board, consisting of Sami. Jones, William Barbee, and Henry Garrard, proceeded at once to divide the county into five townships. These were named Bethel, Concord, Union, Elizabeth, and Washington. Troy, the present county scat, was not surveyed until the following December. During several succeeding years Shelby continued under the jurisdiction of Miami County, but in the year 1819 it was detached and erected into a separate organization, with jurisdiction extending northward over the present counties of Auglaize and Allen, which formed the original Auglaize tmd Amanda townships of Shelby County. On this account we have already treated of Wapakoneta and Fort Amanda at some length, as they are both historic points of peculiar interest. It is only necessary here to say the one is now a thriving seat of justice, while the other is only a cemetery, ten miles farther down the Auglaize. It is remembered, at the period of organization, the whole county was undeveloped, but during the years from 1812 to 1819 settlements had been pushed forward with rapid strides, and showed at least a grasp of the territory which indicated complete and permanent development. So it was that on the 17th of May, 1819, we find a Court of Common Pleas in session at Hardin, ready to " administer even-handed justice to the rich and poor alike." This court was conducted by Hon. Joseph II. Crane, President Judge; and Robert Houston, Samuel Marshall, and William W. Cecil, Associate Judges. On the first day of the term Harvey B. Foote was appointed clerk of the court, and Henry Bacon prosecuting attorney. A few licenses were granted ; and, after some other unimportant routine business had been transacted, the court adjourned sine die on its initial day. The next session convened September 13, 1819, with a full start" of judicial, executive, and clerical officers. The president and three associates were present, as also Harvey B. Foote, clerk ; Daniel V. Dingman, sheriff, and Henry Bacon prosecuting attorney. At this meeting the first grand jury was called and reported. The term adjourned sinedie on the 14th of December. This adjournment sealed the doom of Hardin as a seat of justice, for the next term of the court, comprising the same judicial, executive, and clerical officers, convened at Sidney on the 24th of April, 1820. Turning to the executive department of the organization, we find the Board of Commissioners convening at Hardin on the 7th of June, 1819. This board consisted of Robert McClure, W r ra. Berry, and John Wilson. David Henry was appointed clerk of the board, and James Lenox treasurer of the county. Both appearing, they took the oath of office, and entered at once upon their respective duties. The board reassembled on the lltli of the month, and appointed Archibald Defrees collector of the county. On the 12th the bonds of John Craig as coroner, and Daniel V. Dingman as sheriff, were accepted ami recorded. After some other routine business the board adjourned until the 2d Monday in September. Following this brief sessions were held iu September, October, and December at Hardin, the latter session closing ou the 14th of December, which date marked the last meeting of the board at Hardin, as the next session convened at Sidney ou the 1st of February, 1820.

As already indicated, Hardin served as the seat of justice for a little time after the organization of the countj'. The last session of the Court of Common Pleas and Board of Commissioners, which convened at Hardin, adjourned on the 14th of December, 1819, at which time the distinc-' tiou of being a county seat was lost by Hardin. Pending this date steps had been taken toward the permanent location of the seat of justice. The General Assembly of Ohio had appointed Thomas B. Van Horn and James Steele a Board of Commissioners to view the different sites already recommended, and report upon a suitable location. In accordance with this authority the commissioners proceeded to the performance of their duties, and after examining the different sites to which

The undersigned commissioners appointed by the Legislature of Ohio at their last session, to fix on the most eligible site for the seal of justice for the county of Shelby, met at the town of Hardin, in said county, on the 22d inst., agreeable to appointment, - previous notice having been given as the law directs, said notice being acknowledged and having been duly qualified, - proceeded to examine the different sites pointed out by the inhabitants of said county; and after traversing the county to ascertain the most proper place, have selected part of a fraction number 36 in township 8, range 6, west of the Great Miami River, belonging to Charles Sterrett; commencing ata creek or run of water southeastwardly of a house in said fraction, occupied by a Mr. Cannon, running east of north with the bank, and westwardly for the quantity of seventy acres, offered as a donation by the said Charles Sterrett, as will appear by the inclosed bond, proposal, etc.

The donation referred to in this report is fully explained by the subjoined article of agreement, made by Charles Sterrett, proprietor of the plat chosen as the site of the county seat: -

I, the undersigned subscriber, proprietor of fraction No. 36, in township eight, range six, east of the meridian line, and on the west bank of the Great Miami River, do make a donation to the commissioners of Shelby County of seventy acres of land, for the use and benefit of said county, on any part of the above named tract of land that the commissioners appointed by the Legislature see proper to locate the seat of justice for said county; provided the commissioners for fixing the said scat of justice see proper to fix said seat permanently in said fraction; provided that I do receive one-half of the proceeds of the sales of the lots after the said county commissioners locate, lay off, and sell the lots which may be laid off on said donation.

N. B. I also bind myself to give the privilege of all the springs within the bounds of said fraction as above described, for the use of the town, and the privilege of conveyance to the town. C. S.

I, the said Charles Sterrett, do make the following reserves out of the seventy acres proposed to the commissioners for the seat of justice for the county of Shelby, to wit: One acre for the public square; two half acres for two different denominations of religious societies; one acre for each of two different denominations of religious societies for graveyards; and one acre for use of schools.

Know all men by these presents that I, Charles Sterrett, am held and firmly bound unto Robert McClure, John Wilson, and Wm. Berry, commissioners of Shelby County, and their successors in office in the sura of three thousand dollars, lawful money of the United States, and by these

The condition of the obligation is such that if the above bound Charles Sterrett, his heirs, executors, administrators, or assigns should execute a deed in fee simple to the commissioners of Shelby County for the within donation of seventy acres of land, tying and being in fraction numbered thirty-six, in township eight, range six, east of the meridian line, and west of the Great Miami River, for the purpose of laying off a town for the seat of justice for Shelby County, in the State of Ohio, the commissioners delivering to him half the proceeds of the sale of lots laid off in said town, in said fraction 36, then this obligation to be void and of no effect, otherwise to remain in full force.

In consideration of securing the seat of justice at Sidney other donations than that of the proprietor were made by several citizens, who were favorable to the project. These arc exhibited by the following certified agreement : -

We the undersigned bind ourselves to the county commissioners of Shelby County, to pay the several sums annexed to our names, provided the seat of justice for the county of Shelby is established on the above tract of laud as described, and the conditions as above are complied with : -

The court appoints David Henry Director of the town of Sidney, to be laid off upon the ground selected by the commissioners, for the seat of justice of Shelby County, who gave bond with Rodham Talbott, Edward Jackson, and Thomas W. Ruckman, his sureties, in the sum of six thousand dollars. The court further order that the director proceed to lay off a town upon the premises aforesaid in lots of five rods by ten, in blocks of eight lots each, with alleys one rod in width, running through the centre of each block at right angles with each other and with the streets ; the alleys to divide the blocks into four equal parts. The streets be laid out six rods in width, aud that a public square be laid out in said town by striking out the centre block of lots.

That the director, as soon as the said town shall be laid out, shall, after giving one month's notice thereof, in six of the most public places in this county, and in the Gazette , printed in Dayton, shall proceed to sell at public sale one-third of said lots upon the following terms, to wit : -

One-fourth in ninety days ; one-fourth in nine months ; and one-fourth in fifteen months, and the residue in two years; to be secured by a lien upon the lots, until the whole shall be paid ; reserving one lot upon or

In accordance with the instructions of the court, the director of the town procured the survey of the plat by Benjamin S. Cox, who, after making the survey, submitted the following report : -

I do hereby certify that, being called on by David Henry, Esq., Director of the town of Sidney, to survey said town plat, I executed the same under his directions, by running the exterior boundaries agreeably to the following courses and distances, viz. : -

Beginning at a stake - the northwest corner of said town - standing four rods due south of the northern boundary line of the fraction witnessed by a small white oak standing north 7° east, 7 links distant; then south 5° east, 27 poles, to a stake in the cornfield ; then south 85° west, 26$ poles, to a stake witnessed by two small buckeyes ; one bearing due north, at 6 links distance; the other south 47$° west, 6 links also ; thence south 5° east, 108 poles, to a stake - the southwest corner of said town plat - witnessed by a large blue ash tree standing north 64° west, 8 poles and 16$ links distant ; thence north 85° east, 80 poles, passing Abraham Cannon's house and cornering at a stake, the southeast corner of said town ; said stake standing a few rods south of a run, and witnessed by a large blue ash standing south 58$° east, 18$ links distant; thence north 5° west, 81 poles, to a stake at the upper end of the cornfield; thence north 85° east, 14} poles, to a stake standing 22 links north of a large beech, and 34 links cast of a smaller one ; tiience north 5° west, 27 poles, to a stake having for witnesses a blue ash, standing north 68° east, 21 links and a small buckeye, south 55° west, 12 links distant; thence north 85° east, 13$ poles, to a stake witnessed by a large white oak standing south 75° cast, 4 links and a blue ash north 82° west, 17 links distant; thence north 5° west, 27 poles, to a stake - the northeast corner of said town - witnessed by a beech standing south 40° west, 27$ links distant ;* thence south 85° west, 81$ poles, to the beginning: containing by calculation 70 acres and 25$ poles. The above courses were run for a supposed true meridian, and at right angles to the same ; believing the true meridian, when running north, to be five degrees west of the magnetic one.

Personally appeared before me, a justice of the peace for said county, the above named Benjamin S. Cox, who qualified the above town plat of the town of Sidney to be a true survey made to the best of his ability.

It is ordered by the court that the Director of Sidney offer for sale at public vendue, giving one month's previous notice in six public places in the county and in the newspapers published at Troy, one-third of the lots now remaining unsold in Sidney, on the following terms, viz.: Onefourth of the purchase-money in hand ; one-fourth in nine months ; onefourth in fifteen months; and the remaining fourth in two years; the purchaser giving bond and approved security for the payment of the last three instalments, and to receive from the director a certificate for the lot or lots purchased, stipulating that a deed shall be executed on the completion of the payments; and the director is further authorized to dispose of at private sale any lots remaining unsold at the public sale hereby ordered in the terms prescribed by this order.

The Director of Sidney having represented to the court that certain lots in said town, ordered to be sold in December term last, have reverted to the county, in consequence of the failure of the purchasers to comply with the terms of sale, it is, therefore, ordered by the court that the director sell the said lots which have so reverted on the following terms, viz.: One-fourth of the purchase-money in hand ; one-fourth thereof in nine months ; one-fourth in* fifteen months ; and the remaining fourth part in two yenrs from the day of sale. The purchaser giving bond and approved security for the payment of the last three instalments, and to receive from the director d certificate for the lot or lots purchased, stipulating that a deed shall be executed to the purchaser, his heirs, or assigns, on the completion of the payments. The said sale to take place on the 6th instant, public notice having been given thereof heretofore in the newspapers printed at Piqua; and the director is further authorized to dispose of at private sale any of the said lots remaining unsold at the public sale hereby ordered in the terms prescribed by this order.

In pursuance of these instructions, the director offered the designated lots for sale ; after which he submitted the subjoined statement in account with the county : -

The conditions of the sale of lots to be sold this day in Sidney, agreeable to an order of the Court of Common Pleas for Shelby County, last term : -

Article 2d. The purchaser agrees to pay one-third of the purchasemoney in hand ; one other third part in six months ; and the residue in one year from this date.

Article 3d. On payment of the first third part, the purchaser will be entitled to a certificate, conditioned to make a deed, on completing the above payments, at the end of one year, as aforesaid ; still it is fairly understood and agreed that if the purchaser, or his assigns, fails to make payment at the end of one year, as aforesaid, then the lots thus sold is to revert back to the county, and money paid to forfeit.

For our present purpose less could not be writteh, and more need not be written, touching this subject. Before leaving it, however, for other subjects, it may be well and proper to observe that the seat of justice has been maintained at Sidney since its establishment here in 1820 ; that the town site was judiciously chosen ; that the growth of the town has been a matter of pride; and that its present standing reflects great credit upon its own citizens, and those of the entire county. More than this will be left unwritten until the town is approached for detailed consideration.

Among the first steps usually taken by the authorities of a new county are those looking to the location and establishment of public highways. Their necessity at the outset is apparent; but, aside from this view of necessity, is the consideration of ail early settlement of a question which sometimes gives rise to difficulties in the form of opposition on the part of land holders, who usually form very decided preferences as to location. The mode of procedure was usually action by the commissioners upon petitions presented by residents along the proposed road line. Upon a hearing of such petitions the commissioners, in taking favorable action, would appoint viewers, who, accompanied by a civil engineer, would view and survey the proposed line, and make due report to the Board of Commissioners. In this section the lines first viewed and declared "public highways" were the most important and available routes between the centres of early settlements. Thus among the early roads in this section will be found those leading from Piqua to Wapakoncta; from Troy to Dingmansburg ; from Dingmansburg to Wapakoneta; and from Piqua, or from the Piqua and Wapakoneta road to Hardin and St. Marys. After the establishment of these leading lines, other roads diverging in all directions usually took the roads first established as a 8tarting-point, from which they traced to another main road, or to some township line or natural stream. The pike system, now so complete, was undreamed of by the viewers and surveyors, who, from 1816 forward, trailed their way through the forest in search of a practicable route by which to connect two given points, or afford access to a new settlement or a prospective town. But many things have developed since those routes were traced, equally unknown to the dreams of the men of 1815 and '20. A few references to some of the early roads will show the foundation of the system of public highways in this county.

It is ordered by the Board of Commissioners of Miami County that William Marrs, George Chiles, and William Robinson, viewers, together with James Cregan, surveyor, taking with him two chainmen and one blazer, proceed on Monday, the ninth day of June next, to view anil survey a road beginning on the east line of Miami County, between section 31, township 3, and section 1, township 2, range 13; thence to the northwest corner of section 21 of said township 2 ; thence the best way to Dingmansburg ; and make a return to the Board of Commissioners on the first Monday of September next.

Ordered that William Berry, Gardner Bobe, and David Henry, viewers, together with James Cregan, surveyor, taking with him two chainmen and one marker, proceed on the third day of November next, to view and survey a road beginning on the State road, on the east bank of Miami River, section 31, range 1 ; thence the best way to the top of the high bank, where the road from John Francis to the sawmill turns down said bank; thence with said road to the river; thence up the river bank to Dingmansburg, through the main street, continued on up to D. V. Dingman's ford across the river; thence up the west side of the river to James Dingman's, Jr., section 20, township 1, range 7; thence to the township line at any point that will embrace the best way to Waughpaughquannatta ; and make a return to the Board of Commissioners on the first Monday of December next.

At a session of the Commissioners of Shelby County, held at Hardin on the 13lh day of December, 1819, it was "Ordered that Abraham Cannon, John Lenox, and Daniel Dingman, together with Benjamin S. Cox, taking to their assistance two chainmen and one blazer, proceed on the 22d inst. to view and lay out a road, as follows: Beginning on the State road from Piqua to Wapakoneta where it crosses Mill Creek in Turtle Creek Township, running northwesterly to Abraham Cannon's, and make report of their proceedings to the next Board of Commissioners." December 14, 1819, a road was ordered to be viewed from the Five Mile Tree on the Musquito Creek road "to the county line on the east side of section 5, town. 2, range 13, at the most proper point for a road to the seat of justice of Logan County." On March 6, 1820, a road was ordered to be viewed and laid out from Dingmansburg, through Sidney and Hardin, to Cynihiann. It was further ordered that a road be laid out from the State road at or near W m. Morrow's, by Steinberger's mill, to an intersection with the Mill Creek and Sidney road.

Also a road from Hardin to the State road at or near the Nine Mile Creek in Loramie Township. Also a part of the road leading from Honey Creek to Musquito Creek.

On April 24, 1820, it was ordered that a road be viewed and laid out from Cynthiana to the Darke County line, there to intersect the Greenville road.

September 5, 1820, a road was ordered to be laid out from at or near the southwest corner of section 2, town. 2, range 13, to the east line of the county.

Also a road from the north end of Main Street, Sidney, up the river to the Dingmansburg and Wapakoneta road near Rodham Talbott's; thence to the hill near Elisha Kirkland's; thence by Win. Hathaway's to the Miami ford above George Morrison's; thence by nearest and best way to Logan County line to intersect the Bellefontaine road.

It has been well said that "ignorance and neglect are the mainsprings of misrule," and it is the pride of Ohio that her civilization never outran her schools. Had it been otherwise, civilization must have suffered too greatly to attain the heights it has reached to-day. The school system, with its added strength of years, may still be imperfect, but with all its imperfections who will measure its potency for good! Education was recognized by the constitution itself as the very strength and hope of the State, and it is even more than these. It is the very corner-stone, the chief support, as well as the main defence of civilization. The school house, like the home of the United States, must be a temple of that divine trinity, liberty, justice, and equality. The man or woman who teaches "the young idea how to shoot," must move in sympathy and harmony with that " hand which rocks the cradle," and is the mover of the world. It is to the mothers and teachers of America that a whole race looks with mingled pride and hope. There is undoubtedly room for improvement in the school system, for progress invites enlargement of the school idea, because that idea is to give character to education. The schools must become more and more the guardians of liberty as they are now its foundation, for it is to be their peculiar province to teach political as well as social economy, and so produce intelligent electors as well as moral citizens.

In a government like our own, where each individual is a king, the schools must rise to their highest level, and educate that sovereign power of the individual, so that it will be directed toward the security of the public welfare. In a free land of free schools the day must come when no apology dare be offered for ignorance of governmental affairs, and in that day the ballot will be guided by intelligence and not by prejudice. Political vagaries, heresies, and passions must then vanish before the consuming light which is to radiate from the schools of the future. Posterity will not march up to the cannon's mouth to learn in death that slavery is a crime; neither will any future generation rush upon the bayonet to learn that an "indissoluble union of indestructible states" was formed when " we, the people, in order to form a more perfect union"

The schools of the future will produce voters who will resent all appeals to prejudice. They will teach that the panacea for a panic consists more in honesty and economy than in the unlimited issue of promises to pay. They will produce voters who will know that money must be earned through an equivalent, and not secured by a government printing and distributing machine. They will teach the difference between promise and payment - between metallic and paper currencies. In those schools it will be learned that a promise is not payment, and that paper has never yet been money. They will teach that in the matter of liberty and happiness the greatest extravagance is the greatest economy, for the more you give of these the more you still retain. They will teach the difference between liberty and license and between happiness and selfishness. They will teach that liberty is the freedom to do good, and that to do good is the highest form of happiness. So much for the system of to-day and to-morrow ; and now glance for a moment at the system of yesterday. The advent of the pioneer in this county antedates the school system of the State, but schools of some class have ever been contemporaneous with settlement throughout the whole Northwest. The settlers came from the older communities, and carried with them a reverence for education which was only strengthened by their contact with the wildness and rudeness of nature. Whenever we find a little band of settlers, such as came here, we find "the school master is abroad." The plan adopted, that of subscription, was the only available one, and each settler voluntarily contributed of his means to provide something of an education for his children.

These pioneers were in earnest about the settlement of this country, and well knew where to lay the foundation of that society they were about to rear. True, the schools were rude and feeble, but it was a rude and feeble period, and as proud, a tribute as these pioneers would have asked was won. That tribute is the declaration that they gave up their very homes for school purposes before they could afford to erect even a log school-house, and actually engaged teachers when all their little means was neeessarj' to provide the physical comforts of life.

The first buildings they erected for school purposes were rude and rudely furnished, while the curriculum was simple; but perhaps after all the schools of that day sustained about the same relation to those of today as these latter will to the schools of the next half century. The terms were short and wages low; everything was incomplete; but after all they represented a distinctively physical era, and so must not be measured too closely by the standard of this more clearly intellectual era. They served as a solid foundation for these, and if they had served no other purpose, this alone would entitle them to our grateful consideration. Aside from this they served the immediate needs of their day, and so directly fulfilled their mission. Education was then a luxury as it is now a necessity, and it mattered little if the teacher did " board around," or if the seats were made of "slabs." The range of that education was limited, it is true, and it will ever be so, for the capacity of the human mind under favorable conditions neither has been nor can be measured. That it consisted largely in memorizing need not be denied, for even to-day it is too largely the same. Education should be the stimulation of thought, and not the parrot act of imitation. Too long the mind has been compared to such inanimate objects as the vessel, the marble, and the clay. It is now time to recognize it as a living, acting being, acted upon by its own activities, and not a dead passive object which, like the vessel, the marble, or the cla}', may be filled, or chiselled, or moulded at will. It is thought which constitutes the man, and this is the force by which the world is moved.

Education, however comprehensive, can only aspire to two objects. Its first object is to arouse the activities of the mind; and the second is the stimulation of these activities after they are once aroused. This constitutes the all in all of education, and that process which attempts to develop the mind without recognizing its inherent forces, must not only fail, but will also do incalculable harm. Original effort is the crying demand of the times, and this presupposes mental activity. This better and completer education is developing year by year. The pioneer schools could not overreach the rudiments, for neither time nor money was at command. Still a broad and firm foundation was laid, and the

The log school-house gave way to the rude frame buildings, and these in turn yielded to the neatness of the modern buildings of frame and brick. The teacher no longer " boards around," the wages are better, the terms longer, and the curriculum more comprehensive. The buildings are neatly constructed and comfortably furnished. The school is becoming an adjunct to the home, and sometimes provides a more wholesome moral and social atmosphere The old idea that the teacher is the enemy of the pupil has died away, and confidence and sympathy are supplanting physical force. From this time forward the school will be the object of deepest solicitude to parent, teacher, and pupil alike, and under this condition all will be found laboring shoulder to shoulder in the great cause of education. With such an interest manifested the influence of the schools of to-day will extend from generation to generation as the recognized force of progress, development, and happiness.

Travel the highways throughout the county to-day, and the schoolhouse is constantly in view. Go away from the village, and just as the graded school building is losing itself behind the timber or buildings, you find yourself confronted by the rural school-house. You cannot escape them if you would, and if you are a man or woman the fact will cause you joy. Neither can you elude their influence. It is about you, and you feel it, wherever you go in the county. Those little brick or frame buildings are the mileposts along the avenues of education. The villages have independent schools, generally based on the graded system, and divided into separate and distinct departments, but all united under one superintendent. So it is that each child within the county has the privileges of the school furnished almost at the door of the home, until the most valuable of all acquisitions is rendered the very cheapest.

It is needless to enter into details at this point relating to the history of religious societies, as they are separately treated under the several townships or towns to which they properly belong. These organizations are here to-day with their " houses of worship" brought within reach of every member of the community. The Catholic church and the various Protestant denominations are represented throughout the county, so that generally an individual may find a church in which he may "worship according to the dictates of his own conscience."

The oldest and newest communities in the county are almost uniformly Protestant; at least this is the case if weighed by majorities, while intermediate settlements were more strongly Catholic. In the old portion of the county, or the southern part, Protestantism was contemporaneous with settlement, and the early missionary, probably of the Methodist denomination, visited this section, and held religious services in the homes of the settlers before the era of houses dedicated especially to the worship of God. These missionaries came through the wilderness from the older and distant settlements, generally travelling bj' horse and saddle as they took their way toward the homes of the pioneers. When it was known one of them was to visit the settlement, messengers were dispatched to give notice to all the settlers within a radius of several miles, and from these distances they repaired to the designated house, many at times being compelled to remain over night. Sometimes in favorable weather it was necessary to hold outdoor services, as the cabin of the settler would not accommodate the motley congregations. Under these circumstances it will be readily perceived that some of the " pomp and splendor" of modern religion was wanting, for these were not encouraged by the times or circumstances.

Yet, after all, the simpler truths constitute the essence of religion, and the pioneer looked exclusively to these. It was not so much a question of Presbyterianism or Methodism; not so much a question of open or close communion; not so much a question of immersing or sprinkling, as it was a guide to a higher life. The missionary dealt less, perhaps, with incomprehensible doctrines, and enunciated fewer dogmas, but he was zealous even to self-abnegation, and sought to better the condition of men's lives, and strengthen them against adversity. While their doctrines were fewer, perhaps some appeared harsher than may generally be heard declared to-day, but thia does not lessen the credit given the early teachers and hearers. The Church, like all things else, has been a growth, and its very teaching is a development. Doctrines taught a half century since have been thrown aside as repugnant to the higher humanity of the people, and derogatory of the justice of God. Perhaps the church, in moving away from some incomprehensible theories and unjustifiable dogmas, has even too far forgotten the simpler truths which underlie religion. It may be that in wandering away for a season in idle speculation touching non-essentials, it came back to toy for a season with gew-gaws and ornaments only for recreation.

Perhaps this is why, to some extent, the dissensions of the choir, and, for that matter, of the church, hold such a prominent place. We hear of the splendid choir, the costly organ, the stained glass, the brass candelabra, and sometimes of the fashionable preacher, but, we had almost said, the principle of religion is ignored. Sometimes it looks as if it were merely a habit into which people have fallen, and the object of that habit, if any, was to determine which church can build the grandest house, support the most fashionable preacher, and deserve the name of the richest congregation. Perhaps this is all to mark the interval which is to precede that day in which religion is to be a thing of life and conduct, and not a thing of belief and creed. Perhaps religion, the best emotion of the human heart, will yet assert itself in simple charity and good-will, leaving forms and ceremonies to take care of themselves. Perhaps out of all this will come man's superiority to blind faith, and his contempt for the creed which circumscribes his field of usefulness.

It may be that religion will yet be embraced more, because it is intelligible than because it is a mystery ; more for its own sake than out of reverence for a cruel past. Clearness is seeking in theology, as elsewhere, and it must yet adjust itself to the demands of the age, and meet the requirements of humane thought. The religion demanded is one of utility, one which will teach men a justice tempered with mercy, one which will deal with life rather than death, and with conduct rather than belief.

It is a question of conduct and not of election, a question of deeds, not of predestination, a question of better lives, not of baptism, a question ot'love, not of fear, as it is viewed by the world to-daj'. This refers to all denominations, Protestant as well as Catholic, for the semper ides of the latter is not alone sufficient to satisfy the craving of a united mind and heart.

Looking then at the distribution of faiths in this county, it will be found that while Protestantism largely prevails and predominates, Catholicism occupies a stronghold in the northwest quarter of the county, and has also strong congregations at Sidney and elsewhere in those portions not wholly Catholic. Of the Protestant portion it may be said that about all the leading denominations are strongly represented, and everywhere buildings of comfort, if not of elegance, may be seen testifying of the wealth of the church. The finest Protestant churches are found in Sidney, while the finest Catholic edifice is found at Berlin, this being probably the costliest church in the county.

It is interesting to recall the small beginnings of the infant community which has assumed such great proportions. Take, for instance, the first financial exhibit in which the amount represented by both credits and debits was only a little more than $1100, and then note the deficit of $708. It looks like a small and hopeless beginning. This state of [ finances exhibited for the period extending from April 1, 1819, to the first Monday in June, 1820. Note next the Treasurer's settlement for 1822, and find the sum of $769 on either side of the account. Still this was a better showing than that of the preceding year; for, if it left no surplus, neither did it leave a deficiency. In 1823 a balance of $5.91 accrued to the county. The showing was yet small but hopeful. In 1825, with credits amounting to more than $1300, the exhibit shows a balance of $128 in favor of the county. From these statements hereto annexed a clear idea will be obtained of the financial condition of the j eouuty from its organization to the year 1825. '

" clerk of court for extra services, copying and re cording plat for auditing " commissioners' fees to September term, 1819 " John Lenox, part of court-house " county treasurer's fee

1822 on county levy . 44 balance of State's portion in arrears, after deducting amount of State, county, and roads, applied in county portion .... 44 balance last settlement, after deducting errors 44 amount of road certificates paid in by A. W.

It is common enough to-day to hear complaints on account of the expenses of the county. Salaries are sometimes said to be too high, and then it is hinted these salaried officers are reckless of their trusts, and prodigal of the people's money. Consequently we hear of " high taxes," until each semi-annual payment of taxes marks a period wherein protests and complaints will abound "thick as autumnal leaves in Valambrosa." It is true county officers, like others, may be reckless or injudicious, and incur unreasonable expense, and it is also true this expense must be met by taxation. Still, it is also true that chronic grumblers and constitutional protesters abound, who can no more help this course than the leper can help his disease. Disease is the right word, and we like it in this sense and connection. Still as it is something of a duty, or, at least, a courtesy to pander to the tastes and desires of the sick, we herewith present a statement of the expenses of the county for 1822, nnd hope the grumbler at high taxes and that other reader who is pining for " the good old times" will be able to extract a wealth of comfort from its perusal.

Repairs on Public Buildings: Alex. McKee, for repairs on jail, $3.00; Elisha Williams, for repairs on court-house, $67.53f ; Wm. Beatty, for repairs on jail, $2.00; John Snyder, for repairs on court-house, $130.00; Elisha Williams, for repairs on court-house, $14.00; Wm. Johnston, for hauling plank, $1.00; David Henry, for glass, $10.00. $227.53f.

Sheriff's Fees: Daniel Y. Dingman, late sheriff, for summoning jurors at September and December terms, 1819, $4.00; Thomas W. Ruckraan, for same service at April term, 1821, $2.00; to the same, as annual allowance for the year 1821, $30.00; Thomas W. Ruckman, for summoning jurors at September and December terms, 1820, $4.00; to same, as allowance as collector, $3.16; to same, as annual allowance for 1821, $30.00; to same, for summoning jurors at May term, 1822, $2.00. $75.16.

County Commissioners: Wm. Berry, for services, $13.50; Robert McClure, for services, $20.25; David Henry, for services, $11.25; Jos. Mellinger, for services, $11.25. $56.25.

Stationery and Printing : John McCorkle, for paper and wafers, $4.25 ; Wm. B. Barrington, for advertising delinquent lands, etc., $7.00. $11.25.

County Auditor: Robert Aldrich, late auditor, for balance due on his account, $12.12£; James Wells's account to December 3, 1821, $30.00. $42.12£.

Contingencies: Thomas B. Van Horn, for his services locating the seat of justice, $14.00; D. Williams, for making desk for clerk, $8.00. $ 22 . 00 .

Support of Prisoners: Wm. Beatty, for support of John Gallant, $3.05; Alex. McKee, for support of L. Talbott, $2.80; Robert McClure, for support of F. Scott, $1.55. $7.40.

As much remains to be said of the actual settlers and localities of settlements, it appears well to introduce this subject at this point, by a presentation of the settlers' names, and the description of the lands entered. Among these names will be found those which appear here and there throughout these pages, until they become familiar to every reader, and it is well to thus identify them. It shows too they were never adventurers, but came with bona fide intentions of permanent citizenship, made their mark upon the community in its every department, and transmitted their names to the citizenship of to-day. In the accompanying statement, it may be proper to observe the significance of the abbreviations. The rule headings "Sec.," "T.," "R.," "Fr.," "Sit.," and "A.," signify Section, Town, Range, Fraction, Situation, and Acres. Abbreviations within the rules indicate cardinal or semi-cardinal points, except M. R., sometimes written elsewhere M. R. S., which refers to the Miami River Survey.

In 1825 the whole number of horses owned in the county was 535. These were owned in the different townships, as follows: Clinton, 53; Turtle Creek, 128; Perry, 53; Green, 82; Orange, 89; Loramie, 75; Amanda (Allen County), 27 ; Cynthian, 28.

At the same time the whole number of cattle was 1004, distributed by townships as follows: Clinton, 118; Turtle Creek, 226; Perry, 128; Green, 145; Orange, 156; Loramie, 123; Amanda (Allen County), 48; Cynthian, 60.

This property was held by 493 individuals or companies, and these were represented as follows in the several townships: Clinton, 74; Turtle Creek, 94; Perry, 83; Green, 61; Orange, 61; Loramie, 55; Amanda (Allen County), 17 ; and Cynthian, 48.

The first temple of justice was an old block-house at Hardin, in which court was held during 1819, or until the seat of justice was located at Sidney. After this removal court sessions were held for a time in the dwellings of different citizens of the county seat, as no building was yet especially provided for this purpose. At a session of the Commissioners, held at Sidney, Feb. 1, 1820, action was taken providing for the erection of both a court-house and jail, and the following plans were adopted and recorded.

Court-House . - The house for the court, to be a frame, twenty-four by thirty feet ; roofed with joint shingles, and weatlierboarded ; two doors through the middle of the first story ; four eighteen-light windows ; the story ten feet between the floors; a place for two fire-places six feet wide ; second story eight feet high, with six fifteen-light windows ; window frames and doors underpinned with stone eighteen inches above ground.

Jail . - The building to be sixteen by eighteen feet, with two stories of seven feet each between the floors, and to be built of timber twelve inches square, laid completely close. The first and second floors to be made of square timber, laid close, the same as the wall ; one window of eighteen inches square in each story, well grated with iron bars ; one door in each story sufficiently ironed and locked ; third floor to be of hewed timber; roof of joint shingles; a chimney in one eud with a fireplace in each room.

These building contracts were ordered to be sold at Sidney on the 22d of February. On the 16th of June, 1821, an additional contract was sold to John Snider for $130. At length, on the 4th of March, 1822, the Commissioners were enabled to convene at the new courthouse.

This building was considered sufficient for court uses until 1831, when, on the 23d of June, the Commissioners met for the purpose of adopting a plan for a new court-house, to be built " in the centre of the Public Square in Sidney." This building was to be of brick, forty-four feet square, and two stories high. The foundation was to be of stone; the lower story to have sixteen windows of fifteen lights each, and the upper story to have twenty windows each of twelve lights twelve by sixteen inches in size. It was further ordered that the old court-house be sold in May, 1832, the proceeds to be applied to the new building. On July 25, 1831, the contract was let to Charles Bush, Wm, Dock, and George D. Leckey. The building was completed and accepted by the Commission on the 30th of March, 1833.

The second jail was erected in pursuance of an act of the Commissioners, under date of June 9, 1825, on which date it was ordered, " That a publication be put in the Piqua Gazette for the building of a new jail at Sidney, to be let out on the 16lh day of July next, said jail to be twenty-two feet by thirty feet; one story high; with a cell; the walls to be hewed timber, and double filled in with stone." This contract was accordingly sold to Augustus Richards for $793, and was conditioned to be completed on the 25th day of December, 1825.

These journals, replete with information touching the development and growth of the county, as well as the course of justice, are submitted in their entirety for the formative period, or first years of the organization. They will both be found to differ widely from the Board and Court Records of to-day, and although lacking system will be found possessing breadth enough to embrace almost everything of a public nature. The two journals comprised very largely the scope now embraced by the Board of Commissioners, Common Pleas Court, Probate Court, Recorder's Office, and Sheriff's Office. Possessing this comprehensiveness the records of the Board and the Court are reproduced for that period with a completeness which will show not only the business transacted, but also the methods of transaction.

June 17, 1819. The Board of Commissioners for Shelby met at Hardin. Present, Robert McClure, Wm. Berry, and John Wilson. David Henry is appointed clerk of the Board, who appeared and took the oath of office.

Order No. 1. Ordered that the county treasurer pay Samuel McClure for four days' service as lister for Loramie Township for this year, $4.00.

Order No. 2. Ordered that the county treasurer pay Charles Botkin for his service as lister and appraiser of property for Perry Township and the fractional part of Essex Township this year, $9.00.

Order No. 3. Ordered that the county treasurer pay John Francis for one day's service as clerk of election for Perry and fractional part of Essex Township on the 5th of April last, $1.00.

Order No. 4. Ordered that the county treasurer pay Richard Defrees for six days' service as lister and appraiser of property for Turtle Creek Township this year, $6.00.

Order No. 5. Ordered that the county treasurer pay John Francis for one day's service as clerk of election for Perry and fractional part of Essex Township on left of May last, $1.00.

Order No. 6. Ordered that the county treasurer pay Peter Musselman for one day's service as judge of election for Perry and fractional part of Essex Township on the 1st of May last, $1.00

Order No. 7. Ordered that the county treasurer pay Wm. Berry, Jr., for one day's service as judge of election, and one day's service taking returns to Hardin for Perry and fractional part of Essex Township on the 1st of May last, $2.00.

Order No 8. Ordered that the county treasurer pay George Berry for one day's service as appraiser of property for Perry and fractional part of Essex Township for this year, $1.00.

Order No. 9. Ordered that the county treasurer pay David Henry for one day's service as clerk of election for Perry and fractional part of Essex Township on the 6th of April last, $1.00.

Charles Botkin, lister and appraiser of property for Perry and fractional part of Essex Township, appeared and made return of his duplicate for said township.

June 11, 1819. The Board of Commissioners met pursuant to adjournment. Present: Robert McClure, Wm. Berry, John Wilson, and David Henry, clerk.

On the petition of Alexander Jackson, Caleb Goble, Joseph Donald-- son, Elisha Kirtland, and Jesse Jackson, accompanied with the consent of a majority of the inhabitants of town. 1, range 7 east: Ordered that John Lenox, Philip Coleman, and Edward Jackson, taking to their assistance a skillful surveyor, two chainmen, and one blazer, proceed, on Monday, the 28th inst., to view and lay out into convenient lots (agreeable to the laws in such cases made and provided) the school section in township No. 1, range 7 east, and carefully value the same, and make report of your proceedings to the Board of Commissioners at their next meeting.

Ordered that the county treasurer pay Abraham Davenport for one day's service as judge of election for Turtle Creek Township on the 1st day of May last, $1.00.

Ordered that the county treasurer pay Jeremiah White for one day's service as judge of election for Turtle Creek Township on the 1st day of May last, $1.00.

Ordered that the county treasurer pay Wm. Herrald for one day's service as appraiser of property for Turtle Creek Township ttiis year, $ 1 . 00 .

Ordered that the county treasurer pay Daniel Yandemark for one day's service as judge of election for Perry and fractional part of Essex Township on the 1st of May last, $1.00.

Ordered that the county treasurer pay Harvey B. Foote for one day's service as clerk of election on the 1st of May last for Turtle Creek Township, $1.00.

Ordered that the county treasurer pay Samuel Stewart for one day's service as judge of election for Turtle Creek Township on the 1st of May last, $1.00.

Ordered that all the fractional part of Essex Township that falls in Shelby County be attached to and incorporated into Perry Township, and is in future to be considered as composing a part of the said township of Perry.

Know all men by these presents that we, John Craig, Robert Aldrich, and John McClure, of Shelby County, are held and firmly bound unto Robert McClure, Wm. Berry, and John Wilson, Commissioners of Shelby County, or their successors in office, in the sum of two thousand dollars, current money of the United States, to the payment of which we bind ourselves, our heirs, and assigns, jointly and severally, firmly by these presents; sealed with our seal, and dated the 12th day of June, one thousand eight hundred and nineteen.

The condition of the above obligation is such that the above named John Craig shall faithfully discharge all the duties enjoined on him by law as coroner for the aforesaid Shelby County; then this obligation to be void and of no effect; otherwise to remain in full force and virtue in law.

Know all men by these presents that we, Daniel Y. Dingman and James Dingman, of the county of Shelby and State of Ohio, are held and firmly bound unto Robert McClure, Wm. Berry, and John Wilson, Commissioners of Shelby County, and their successors in office, in the sum of four thousand dollars, lawful money, to the payment of which we bind ourselves, our heirs, and assigns, jointly and severally, firmly by these presents ; sealed with our seals, and dated the 12th day of June, 1819.

The condition of the above obligation is such that whereas the above bound Daniel Y. Dingman has been duly elected and commissioned sheriff for Shelby County ; now if the said Daniel V. Dingman does well and truly collect, and pay over all moneys that the law makes it his duty to collect to the proper person to receive it, and perform all the duties of

Hardin, Ohio, Sept. 13, 1819. The Board of Commissioners met per adjournment. Present: Robert McClure, Wm. Berry, John Wilson, and David Henry, clerk.

The report of the freeholders appointed the 11th of June last to lay out and appraise the school section in town. 1, range 7 east, is received and ordered, to be recorded.

A petition of part of the inhabitants of Shelby County praying to vacate part of the county road through Turtle Creek Township was read and laid over until the next meeting of the Board.

It is ordered that Perry Township be divided as follows: Running though the middle of the 13th range, and that the south part of said township be organized into a new township by the name of Orange, and that the election for township officers be held at the house of Wm. Minnear, on tiie 23d inst.

Ordered that David Henry have an order on the county treasurer for four days' service as clerk of the Board, and $1.00 for extra service, in all, $10.00.

Hardin, October 29, 1819. The Board of Commissioners met as per adjournment. Present: Robert McClure, W'm. Berry, Joseph Melliuger, and David Henry, clerk.

The Board of Commissioners proceeded to draw their allotments for their terras of service. Robert McClure is for one year, Wm. Berry for two years, and Joseph Mellinger for three years, who each took the several oaths required by law to qualify them for the duties of their said offices.

Ordered that John Francis, John Manning, James Lenox, Joseph Mellinger, Conrad Pouches, Zebediah Richardson, Joseph Steinberger, Henry Hershaw, John Stevens, Archibald Defrees, Cephas Carey, Peter Musselman, John Bryan, R. Lenox, and Abraham Davenport each have $1.50 for services as gram! jurors; and that George Carey, constable, have 75 cents for one day's service at last September term.

Ordered that Thomas Hurley, Wm. Cecil, Wm. Berry, Nathan Coleman, Jacob Wise, Alexander Miller, John Miller, Benjamin Blankinship, John Craig, 'Robert Aldrich, James Crossman, Elisha Kirkland each have 50 cents for services as petit jurors; and that James Moore, constable, have 25 cents for attendance at one trial at last September term.

Ordered that John Manning have for one day's service as judge of election for Orange Township, and one day for taking in the returns of the same at last October election, $2.00.

Ordered that John Hathawaj', Jacob Lemasters, Rodham Talbot, judges, and Peter Musselman and George Morrison, clerks, each have $1.00, for judge and clerk's fees for one day's service at the last annual election for Perry Township.

On petition of sundry inhabitants of township 7, range 6 east, it is ordered that Daniel Vandemark, John Stewart, and Robert Hurley, taking to their assistance a skillful surveyor, two chainmen, and one blazer, proceed, on the 10th day of October next, to view and lay out into convenient lots - agreeable to law in that case made and provided - the school section in town. 7, range 6 east, and carefully value the same, and make report of your proceedings to the Board, of Commissioners at their next meeting.

That Wm. Johnston, John Francis, and Dan Dingeman proceed to view a part of the load from Dingmansburg on the division of Wapakoneta that leads through Rodham Talbot's land, as he wishes, and make report agreeable to law to the Board at their next meeting.

Ordered that Abraham Cannon, John Lenox, and Daniel V. Dingman, together with Benjamin S. Cox, taking to their assistance two chainmen and one blazer, proceed on the 22d inst. to view and lay out a road as follows: beginning on the State road from Piqua to Wapakoneta where it crosses Mill Creek, in Turtle Creek Township, running northwesterly to Abraham Cannon's, and make report of their proceedings to the next Board of Commissioners.

Ordered that Peter Princehouse, John Medaris, and Thaddeus Tuttle, together with Benjamin S. Cox, surveyor, taking with them two chainmen and one blazer, proceed on the 29th inst. to view and lay out a road as follows : beginning at or near the 5-mile-tree on the Mosquito Creek road, thence to the county line on the east side of section 5, town. 2, range 13, at the most proper point for a road to the seat of justice of Logan County, and make report of your proceedings to the next Board of Commissioners.

The report of the board of viewers appointed by the, last Board of Commissioners to view the school section in town. 7, range 6 east, was received and ordered to be recorded.

Ordered that all that part of the county of Shelby situate north of a base line that crosses the Big Auglaize at or near the month of Hog Creek, east and west, be incorporated into a separate township, to be known by the name of Auglaize, and that the electors of said township

Know all men by these presents that we, Thomas W. Ruckman, John Lenox, Archibald Defrees, and Wm. Johnston, are held and firmly bound unto Robert McClure, Wm. Berry, and Joseph Mellinger, Commissioners of Shelby County, and their successors in office, in the just sum of four thousand dollars, lawful money ofi the United States, and for the true performance of which payment we bind ourselves, our heirs, executors, and administrators, jointly and severally, firmly by these presents, sealed with our seals and dated the 14th day of January, 1820.

The condition of the above obligation is such that whereas the above bound Thomas W. Ruckman has been duly elected and commissioned sheriff of Shelby County; now if the said Thomas W. Ruckman does well and truly collect and pay over all money that the law makes it his duty to collect, to the proper person to receive the same, and perform ail the other lawful duties of sheriff of Shelby County faithfully and honestly, then this obligation to be void and of no effect; else to remain in full force and virtue in law.

Plan of the jail to be erected for the county: To be 16 by 18 feet; two stories, each seven feet between the floors; built of timber twelve inches square, laid completely close; the first and second floors to be made of square timber laid close, the same as the wall ; one window of eighteen inches square, in each story, well grated with iron bars ; one door in each story sufficiently ironed and locks; third floor to be of hewed timber; roof of joint shingles; a chimney in one end, with a fireplace in each room.

The house for the court to be a frame, 24 by 30 feet, roofed with joint shingles and weatherboarded ; two doors through the middle of the first story ; four 18-light windows ; the story ten feet between the floors ; a place for two fireplaces six feet wide ; second story eight feet high ; six 15-light windows; window-frames and' doors underpinned with stone eighteen inches above ground. The above buildings are ordered to be sold on the 22d inst. at Sidney.

Ordered that the following bills be allowed: William Minnear, James Bryan, Daniel Vandemark, Joseph Bennett, John Mellinger, Zachariah Hurley, John Wilson, Robert Aldrich, Wm. Bush, David Crow, John Shennard, Gideon Wright, Charles Weeks, John Hathaway, each have $1 .50 for one day's service as grand jurors at December term, and that James Moore have 75 cents for services as constable.

James Green, John Hathaway, Joseph Bennett, have each 50 cents for attending a trial at December term, and that James Moore, constable, have 25 cents for attending same trial.

Ordered that Benjamin S. Cox have for his service as surveyor of a road from Mill Creek to Sidney, two days and plat, $4.56 ; for chainraen and blazers, same time, $4.50.

Ordered that Benj. S. Cox have for his service in surveying a road from the 5-mile-tree in the Mosquito Creek to the county line, two days and plat, $4.50 ; for chainmen and blazers, $4.50.

Ordered that John Lenox, Abraham Cannon, Daniel V. Dingraan, each have $2 for two days' service as viewers of a road from Mill Creek to Sidney.

Ordered that John Medaris, Thaddeus Tuttle, and Peter Princehouse each have $2 for two days' service viewing road from 5-mile-tree, on the Mosquito Creek road, to the line of Logan County.

Ordered that Jacob Wise, Samuel Marshall, nnd Daniel Y. Dingman, viewers, and Benjamin S. Cox, surveyor, and assistants, proceed and lay out a road from Dingman's, through Sidney and Hardin, to Cynthian, on the 20th instant, and report to the next Board.

Ordered that Robert Aldrich, John Mellinger, and Samuel McClure, viewers, and Benjamin S. Cox, surveyor, and assistants, proceed on the fourth Monday of this instant to view and lay out a road from the State road at or near William Morrow's ; thence to Steinberger's mill ; thence a northeasterly course to intersect the road from Mill Creek to Sidney, and report to the next Board.

Ordered that Abraham Cannon, James Thatcher, and Samuel Stewart, viewers, and Benjamin S. Cox, surveyor, and assistants, proceed on the first Tuesday in April to view and lay out a road, beginning at or near nardin; thence to the State road at or near the Nine-mile Creek, in Loramie Township, and report to the next Board.

Ordered that David Larue, Charles. Johnston, John Ellsworth, Aquilla Ellsworth, William Ellsworth, viewers, and Benjamin S. Cox, surveyor, and assistants, proceed on the second Monday in April next to review the following part of the road from Honey Creek to Mosquito Creek, to wit: Beginning at the county line, thence to Peter Princehouse's, and make such alteration as may be necessary, and report to the next Board.

Hardin, March 7, 1820. The Commissioners met pursuant to adjournment. Present: Robert McClure, William Berry, Joseph Mellinger, and David Henry, Clerk.

The viewers appointed by the Commissioners, on the 14th of December last, to lay out and view a road from the 5-mile-tree, on the Mosquito Creek road, to the county line of Logan County, with the surveyor of said road, have made their reports, which, being openly read yesterday and to-day at the Board, and no objections being made, the said road is ordered to be recorded a public highway.

Ordered that all that part of Orange Township that is east of the west tier of sections in the second township of Bath, 12th and 13th range, be erected into a new township, by the name of Green Township, and that the qualified electors of said township meet at the house of John Medaris, on the first Monday in April next, to elect township officers.

We, John Lenox, Philip Coleman, and Edward Jackson, viewers, appointed by the Board of Commissioners of Shelby County to view and appraise section No. 16, town. 1, range 7 east, being first duly sworn according to law, have proceeded to view and lay out the same into lots, and appraised the same as follows, to wit: Lot No. 1, 52£ acres at $3.25 per acre ; lot No. 2, 46^ acres at $2.75 per acre ; lot No. 3, 99 T acre at $4.00 per acre ; lot No. 4, 60 r 9 g 8 ff acres at $2.50 per acre ; lot No. 5, 104 acres at $4.50 per acre; lot No. 6, 7H T 1 t , e acres at $2.00 per acre. All of which we have viewed and appraised to the best of our skill and ability. Given under our hands and seals the 11th day of September, 1819. The plat herewith annexed made by James Crugan, Surveyor of Miami County, September 11, 1819.

We, the undersigned, do herebj' certify that we did, by order of the Commissioners of Shelby County, go, on the 10th day of November, 1819, with a surveyor and two chainmen and one blazer, and divided section 16, in range 3, town. 7, into six lots, containing as follows : No. 1, 98| acres ; No. 2 and No. 3, each 102£ acres ; No. 4 and No. 5, each 106£ acres; and No. 6, 102£ acres ; which lots we valued at $2.00 per acre, each lot separately.

Ordered that James Thatcher, John Wilson, and Wm. Davis, together with Benjamin S. Cox, taking to his assistance two chainmen and one blazer, proceed on the first Wednesday in May to view and lay out a road, beginning at Cynthian, thence to intersect the road leading from Greenville to said town, at the Darke County line, and make report to the next Board of Commissioners.

The Commissioners granted a permanent lease to Thomas Kysar for lot No. 2, in school section of town. 7, range 6 east. Granted as above lease for lot No. 3, in same section, to Henry Jackson.

The report of the reviewers, appointed the 6th of March last, to review the road from Honey Creek to Mosquito Creek, beginning at the county line to Peter Princehouse, is received; and being read in open meeting yesterday and to-day, and no objections being made, the same is established a public highway, agreeable to survey made and returned with said report.

The report of the viewers, appointed in March last, to view and lay out a road from Hardin to the State road, at or near Nine-mile Creek, is received ; and being read in open meeting yesterday and to-day, and no objections being made, the same is established a public highway, agreeable to survey therewith returned.

The report of the viewers, appointed in March last, to view and lay out a road from Dingmansburg, through Sidney and Hardin, to Cynthian, is received ; and being read yesterday and to-day in open meeting, and no objections being made, the same is established a public highway, agreeable to survey therewith returned.

The report of the viewers, appointed in March last, to view and lay out a road from the State road, at or near William Morrow's, past Steinberger's mill, thence northeasterly to intersect the new road to Sidney, is received ; and being read in open session yesterday and to-day, and no objections being made to the same, it is established a public highway, according to survey therewith returned.

That Robert Aldrich, Samuel McClure, and John Mellinger have each for 2$ days' services in viewing road from William Morrow's to Sidney, $2.50.

That Benjamin S. Cox have for his service in surveying the road from Hardin to the State road at 9 mile, two days and plat, $4.50. For chainmen and blazer for same, $4.50. Surveying the road from Dingmansburg to Cynthian, three days and plat, $0.25. For chainmen and blazer for same, $6.75. For a road from Morrow's to Sidney, 2$ days and plat, $5.37$. For chainmen for same, $5.12$. For surveying a road from Honey Creek, two days and plat, $4.50. Chainmen for same, 1$ days, $3.37$.

That David Henry have for 12 days' service as clerk of Commisioners and writing at home up to this time inclusive, $1.00 per quire of paper, $27.37$.

Ordered that Wm. W. Cecil have for his service as associate judge at May term, 1819, one day; at September term, two days; at December term, two days; and at April term, one day, $18.00.

Ordered that Harvey Foote have for his extra fees as clerk of the Court of Common Pleas up to May 16, $25.00. For copies furnished the April term inclusive, $2.93.

Ordered that John Lenox, foreman, Samuel Stewart, Richard Lenox, Jacob Wise, John Houston, Henry Hershaw, John Bryan, Archibald Defrees, George Barker, John Underwood, John Manning, John Stewart, Philip Coleman, Wm. Johnston, and Wm. Cecil have each $1.50 for services as grand jurors at April term; and Samuel Marrs for attending same, 75 cents.

Lessees of school land lots: James Barnett, lot No. 1, Thomas Kyser, lot No. 2, Henry L. Jackson, lot No. 3, Henry Jackson, lot No. 4, Jacob Jackson, lot No. 5, and Joseph Porquetts, lot No. 6. Above all in school section town. 7, range 6. They have each received leases ; rent to commence from this date.

The report of the viewers appointed to view the road from Cynthian to Darke Connty line is received, and being read in open meeting yesterday and to-day, and no objections being made, the same is established a public highway agreeable to survey to be opened forty feet wide.

Jonathan Beatty is appointed county treasurer; he appeared, gave bond, and took the oath of office according to law. The duplicate of the county lovy is made out and ordered to be recorded.

Commissioners' Office, June 7, 1820. Alexander Jackson took lease for lot No. 1, in school section town. 1, range 7; interest from 13th of September. Joseph Donaldson took lease for lot No. 4, same set, and interest same time as above. Elisha Kirtland paid his quota of expense for surveying, etc., of the above section for lot No. 5 ; interest from same time.

Bond . - Know all men by these presents that we, John Stephens, Abraham Davenport, Wm. Davis, and Ebenczer D. Stephens, all of Shelby County and State of Ohio, are held and firmly bound unto Robert McClure, Joseph Mellinger, and Wm. Berry, Commissioners of said connty, in the sum of two thousand dollars, lawful money of the United States, to be paid to said Commissioners or their successors in office, to which payment well and truly to be made we bind ourselves, our heirs, executors, and administrators firmly by these presents, sealed with our seals this tenth day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty.

The condition of the above obligation is such that if the above bound John Stephens - who has been duly elected coroner of Shelby County - shall well and truly execute the duties of said office, then this obligation to be null and void ; otherwise to remain in full force and virtue.

Commissioners' Office, July 31, 1820. John Lenox, collector for this year of the county levy, gave bond s^grecable to law for the faithful discharge of the duties of his said office, together with Daniel V. Dingman and Wm. Drake his surety, in the sum of $445.62, and took the oath of office, and received the duplicate of levy.

Ordered that Matthias Sturm, Henry Princehouse, and Wm. Bothel, together with Benj. S. Cox, surveyor, takiug to his assistance two chainmen and one blazer, proceed on the 16th inst. to view and lay out a road, beginning at or near the southwest corner of section 2, town. 2, range 13 ; thence east to the county line, and make report to the Board at the next meeting.

On application of James Botkin, Levi Johnston, Wm. Botkin, John Carpenter et al., it is ordered that Wm. W. Cecil, Henry Le valley, and Jacob Wise, taking to their assistance a skillful surveyor, two chainmen, and one blazer, proceed on the 13th inst. to lay off the school section in town. 9, range 5, into convenient lots, and appraise the same agreeable to law, and make report of proceedings to the Board at next meeting.

Ordered that Benj. Manning, Philip Coleman, and Edward Dwire, viewers, together with Benj. S. Cox, surveyor, taking to his assistance two chainmen and one blazer, proceed on the 20th inst. to view and lay out a road a3 follows, to wit: beginning at the north end of Main Street of Sidney; thence up the river to the road from Dingmansburg to Wapakoneta, near Rodham Talbott's; thence with said road to the hill near Elisha Kirtland's; thence an easterly course to Wm. Hathaway's; thence to the ford of Miami above George Morrison's ; thence the nearest and best way to the county line between Logan and Shelby Counties to intersect the road from Mosquito Creek to Bellefontaine and make report to next meeting of the Board.

Ordered that Robert Houston, Sr., Wm. Morrison, Charles Johnston, together with Benj. S. Cox, surveyor, taking to his assistance two chainmen and one blazer, proceed on.the 29th inst. to view and lay out a road to Sidney; to begin at the bridge on the road from Ruckman's; thence north to the south end of Main Street of Sidney, and make report at the next meeting of the Board.

Ordered that Robert Houston, Wm. Morris, and Charles Johnston, together with Benj. S. Cox, surveyor, and assistants, proceed on the 29th inst. to view and lay out a road from the southward of Ohio Street, in Sidney ; thence south to the Muddy Run ; thence down the run to the new bridge on the road to Ruckman's mill, and make report to the Commissioners at the next regular meeting.

John Lenox, collector of the State tax, gave bond, with Daniel Vandemark and Rodham Talbott, his sureties, for the faithful discharge of the duty of his office in the sum of $4000, and took the oath of office according to law.

Samuel McClure, road commissioner, deposited a bond in this office for the faithful discharge of his duties, with Samuel Stewart and Eleazer Hathaway as securities, in the sum of $1000.

Gibson, Thos. Hurley, Samuel McClure, Wm. Morrow, Collin Aldrich, Isaac Robins, Hezekiah Hubble, Philip Coleman, have each, for one day's service as grand jurors for September term, 1820, $1.50.

Samuel Marshall, road commissioner, deposited his bond in this office, with Robert Aldrich and Thomas McClish as sureties, in the sum of $1000 for the faithful discharge of his official duties.

David Henry appeared and produced a certificate of his election as Commissioner in this Board, and of his qualification, and accordingly took his seat.

Ordered that the qualified electors in the 2d township in range 13 west, meet on the second Saturday in January next, to elect three trustees and a treasurer for the school section in said township.

The report of the viewers appointed to view and lay out a road from the south end of Ohio Street, in Sidney, to Frenchman bridge, is received; they have performed their service and, the same being read in open meeting yesterday and to-day, and no objection being made, the same is established a public highway and made sixty feet wide.

The report of the viewers appointed to view a road from Sidney, up the river to the Logan County line, is received and, the same being read in open meeting yesterday anti to-day, and no objection made, the same is established a public highway, to be opened forty feet wide.

The report of the viewers appointed to lay out a road from the Musquito Creek road to West Liberty is received and, the same being read in open session yesterday and to-day, and no objection being made, the same is established a public highway, forty feet wide.

March 31, 1821. The Board of Commissioners met. Present: Wm. Berry and D. Henry. Settled in full with Samuel Marshall, Road Commissioner on the road from Piqua to Wapakoneta, and find that he has judiciously filled his obligations of office.

The petition of a number of the inhabitants of Loramie and Turtle Creek townships, praying to alter the road from William Morrow's, by way of Steinberger's mill to Sidney, was read and laid over until the next meeting. Record of Rodham Talbott's road, between Miami River and Plumb Creek, as altered by William Johnston, John Francis, and Daniel Dingman, on the 3d of March, 1820. Established under date of March 3, 1821.

Received the list for county levy for Perry, Green, Orange, Turtle Creek, and Loramie townships. Settled with Robert Aldrich, late County Auditor, and allowed his final amount of $12.12£, and direct the present auditor to draw an order on the treasurer for the same.

Received a petition, signed by Jesse Jackson, for an alteration of the road near his house, leading from Sidney to Bellefontaine, which being granted, ordered that Daniel Vandemark, James Dingman, and John Francis, together with Benjamin S. Cox, surveyor, and assistants, proceed on the 9th instant to alter said road, beginning at the corner of George Morrison's fence; thence northwesterly to the top of the bank; thence along the bank to or near said Jackson's house, an easterly course across the run and river above the road and usual place of crossing.

Settled with Samuel McClure, Road Commissioner for the State road from Piqua to Fort Loramie, and And that he has faithfully performed the duties assigned him.

Allowed Samuel McClure $45.00 for his services as Road Commissioner for above-named road, and direct the auditor to draw an order for the same on the county treasurer.

Allowed Elisha Williams for work on the court-house as per bill, $57.25f ; and ordered that the county auditor draw on the treasurer for the same.

Appoints Thomas W. Ruckman collector of the State and county tax. The county levy at 8 per cent., and the State tax at 4 per cent. ; and directs the auditor to take security, agreeable to law, in $2000, for the State tax; and $1000 for the county levy.

June 9, 1821. This day Gideon Wright appeared and gave bond on his appeal from the decision of the Board of Commissioners, rejecting the petition for an alteration of the county road leading from Steinberger's mill to Sidney.

June 16, 1821. The Board met pursuant to adjournment from the 5th instant, for the purpose gf contracting for the building of a chimney and filling the walls of the court-house. Present: Wm. Berry, David Henry, and James Wells, Clerk.

December 3, 1821. The Board convened at the court-house, in Sidney. William Berry's time of service having expired, and David Henry having resigned, an election for two Commissioners was held in October last. John Wilson appeared, presented his certificate of election, and, being duly sworn, took his seat. Present: Joseph Mellinger, John Wilson, and James Wells, Clerk.

Received a petition of sundry inhabitants of Clinton, Green, and Orange townships for a county road from Ruckman's, by John Francis to the east line of the county.

Ordered that William Berry, Matthias Sturm, Jr., and Isaac Parks, taking to their assistance a skillful surveyor, two chainmen, and one marker, proceed on the 13th instant to view and locate a road from Ruckman's saw-mill easterly through John Francis's land ; thence to Bush Creek, below Sycamore bottom ; thence to or near Jonathan Nichols ; thence to John Medaris's mill ; thence to the east boundary line of this county, in section No. 6, township 2, range 12, at or near the centre of said section line.

Ordered that the clerk grant receipts, one to George Childs for plank furnished for public buildings, to offset against donation to the county seat; one to Peter Musselman for the same. George Childs, $20.00. Peter Musselman, $12.25.

An order of court having been served on the Board : ordered that the clerk certify the records appertaining to the alteration of the road petitioned for by Gideon Wright and others.

A report was received, submitted by James Dingman, Daniel Vandemark, and John Francis, viewers, for the location of a road from Sidney to Bellefontaine, which report was duly considered, and the viewed and platted road established a public highway.

Gentlemen : In pursuance of an act of the last General Assembly authorizing the establishment of a State road from Wapakoneta to Fort Meigs, the undersigned, Commissioners appointed for the purpose, have discharged the duties imposed on them by law. An account of their proceedings will be found in the Piqua Gazette of the 18th of October, 1821, which was communicated for public information, a paper containing their report is herewith transmitted, and to which we beg leave to refer as forming a part of this our official return as required by law.

A report was made from Fort Meigs to the Commissioners of Wood County, and a plat of the road has since been forwarded to them in obedience to the law.

Mr. Benjamin S. Cox will hand to your Board a plat of the road, which with their communication will constitute our report to the Commissioners of Shelby County. An account of the expenses will be furnished to your Board hereafter.

March 4, 1822. The Board convened at the court-house in Sidney. Major John Lenox appeared and produced a certificate of his election to this Board, and being duly sworn to discharge the duties of the office, took his seat. Present: John Wilson, John Lenox, and James Wells, Clerk.

Received the petition of sundry inhabitants of Perry and Clinton townships, praying for a road beginning at the east end of South Street in Sidney, and thence to Water Street in Dingmansburg.

Ordered that Abraham Dingman, Elisha Williams, and Robert Mc- Clure, viewers, with legal assistance, proceed to view said road on the 9th inst., and make report at next session of the Board.

The Board settled with Thomas W. Ruckman, collector of the State tax for 1821, and find he has performed the duties, and is discharged from his bond for the same. Also settled with said Ruckman as collector of county levy for 1821, and discharge him from his bond for same.

Received the petition of sundry inhabitants of Loramie Township praying for a division of said township, and said petition being granted: Ordered that a record be made thereof agreeable to the prayer of the petition, and an election for township officers be held at the house of Alexander Miller in said township, on the 4th day of July next.

The report of the viewers appointed to locate a road from Ruckman's saw-mill to the east line of the county was read yesterday and to-day, and no objection being made the same is declared a public highway to be opened forty feet wide, and so recorded.

John Wilson and John Lenox determined the term of their service as commissioners by lot resulting in Wilson holding for three and Lenox for two years from date of election.

The report of the viewers appointed to view and locate a road from South Street in Sidney to Water Street in Dingmansburg was read in open session yesterday and to-day, and no objection being made the same is ordered to be recorded a public highway to be opened sixty feet wide.

The Commissioners examined the auditor's vouchers and accounts, and approve the same, and direct him to publish an exhibit of the county's expenses from June 4, 1821, to June 4, 1822.

December 2, 1822. The Board convened at the house of John Blake. Present: John Wilson and William Berry, Commissioners, and James Wells, Clerk.

Since last session, Joseph Mellinger's time having expired and John Lenox having resigned, Wm. Berry and Joseph Mellinger were elected at the last October election to fill said vacancies.

Received the petition of Charles Sterrett et al. to vacate the road running from Ohio Street south and Main Street north, in the town of Sidney', leading to Barbara Tilburg's, which was read this day without objections.

Received the petition of Charles Sterrett et al. to vacate a road leading from South Street, in Sidney, to Dingmansburg; also, one running up the west side of the river, which was read this day.

Allowed the bill of expenses laid in this day by John Johnston and Samuel Marshall, road commissioners, who located the State road from Wapakoneta to Fort Meigs.

Received the petition of Jeremiah Redinbaugh et al. praying a road to be laid out, commencing at the south boundary, at the end of the road leading from Dayton up Lost Creek, near Fleming Jones', and running thence northwesterly to or near Michael Young's; thence through John Stoker's lane ; thence to or near the southwest corner of the southeast quarter of section 1, town. 1, range 13; thence north to intersect the road leading from the east boundary line to Ruckman & Stewart's mill.

Received the petition of Wm. Richardson and others praying for a road .commencing at the road leading from Sidney to Urbana, at or near the Bellefontaine road ; thence south across Mosquito Creek ; thence along the high bank of Leatherwood to the old ford ; thence the best way to the northeast corner of Jonathan Nicholas's land; thence soulh along his line; thence southwesterly to Byron Wilson's; thence to John Stoker's ; thence to Michael Young's north line; thence west to intersect the Piqua road.

Received the remonstrance of John Blake and others against vacating the road from the northeast corner of the public square in Sidney to the ford near Henry Bryan's; whereupon John Lenox, John Johnston, and Richard Lenox were appointed viewers to view said road on the 14th inst. and report at next session.

The petition of Jeremiah Redinbaugh and Wm. Richardson was read this day, and no objections being made, viewers were appointed to view said road on the 25th inst.

John Lenox, John Johnston, and Rich aid Lenox were appointed to view, on the 14th inst., the road petitioned to be vacated by Charles Sterrett and remonstrated to by John Blake, to report at next session.

Received a transcript from the docket of James Lenox, Esq., certified by the clerk of the court for costs in State cases before said Lenox, which is laid over to the next session.

Received the report of the viewers appointed to view and report the expediency of vacating the road leading from the northeast corner of the public square in Sidney to Henry Bryan's ford; and they report that it is inexpedient to vacate said road ; signed by John Lenox and John Johnston, viewers.

Received the Commissioner's report and surveyor's plat, of a State road from Bellefontaine, in Logan County, to Sidney, and the same is ordered to be recorded.

June 2, 1823. The Commissioners convened at the court-house in Sidney. Present: John Wilson, Joseph Mellinger, Wm. Berry, and James Wells, clerk.

Allowed Joseph Bennett, a commissioner in same, five days. Thomas Thompson, surveyor in the same, six days and a half. Win. Minnear and Jacob Woodcock, chainmen in same: 2§d days to Minnear; 3| days to Woodcock, Thomas Dickson, and Benj. Schoder, blazers; one day to Dickson, and 2£ days to Schoder.

The petition of Elisha Kirkland and others praying to alter the State road leading from Sidney to Logan county-seat, so as to save the fence and spring of said Kirkland, beginning at the Four Mile Tree, thence to the top of the ridge west of his house ; the same was granted at his own expenje. Benjamin Manning, James Dingman, Jr., and G. W. Wilkinson were appointed viewers to view the same the 18th inst., and report at next session.

Received the petition of sundry citizens of Allen County praying that said county may be organized into a separate township; said - petition being granted: Ordered that record be made thereof agreeable to the prayer of the petition, and an election for township officers be held at the house of Samuel Washburn in said township on the 4th day of July next; said township to be known by the name of Amanda.

Joseph Mellinger and Wm. Berry, both elected commissioners in October last, Mr. Mellinger's time expires in October next, and Mr. Berry's in October, 1825.

Monday, December 1, 1823. The Board convened at the house of John Blake in Siduey. Present: John Wilson, Wm. Berry, and Joseph Mellinger (re-elected), Commissioners, and James Weils, Clerk.

Received and accepted the report of the viewers appointed last June session to review and alter the State road passing by Elisha Kirkland, and ordered said alteration recorded.

Received the plat and field notes of the survey of the county road from the south line of the county, and terminating on the road leading from Ruckman's mill to the east line of the county.

Allowed Robert Houston and John M. Corkle, Commissioners who located the State road from Fort Loramie to St. Marys, each five days at $1.75 per day.

First Mondaj' of March, 1824. The Board convened at the home of John Blake in Sidney. Present: Wm. Berry and Joseph Mellinger, Commissioners, and James Weils, Clerk. John Wilson, Commissioner, also appointed.

Ordered that the county treasurer proceed according to law to collect the rents due on the school section No. 16, in town. 7, range 6 east of the principal meridian line drawn from the mouth of the Great Miami River, in the district of lands sold at the land office at Cincinnati.

Ordered that the road commencing near Fleming Jones's, at the south line of the county, and terminating at the road leading from Ruckman's mill to the east line of the county near John Francis's, be recorded and opened a public highway to be thirty feet wide.

Allowed John R. Medaris for one day viewing road from south line of the county, intersecting the road from Ruckman's mill to the east line of the county, 75 cents.

Elisha Williams is appointed keeper of the county seal, and authorized to procure a standard half bushel, and seal S. C. S., at the expense of the county.

Ordered that the clerk give public notice that if the donors of the county seat of Shelby County do not pay their several donations previous to the first Monday in June that legal steps will be taken to recover the same.

Same time as above allowed Elisha Williams (a transcript of certain State cases wherein the State of Ohio failed) to receive orders from the auditor on the treasurer for the costs on his obtaining the certificate of the clerk of the Court of Common Pleas as to the correctness of the same.

The Board having received the resignation of James Wells, late auditor for Shelby County, and appointed David Henry to fill the vacancy, who appeared and gave bond according to law, with Wm. Pratt and James Dingman, Jr., his security, for the faithful performance of the duties of said office, and took the oath of office.

Allowed Thomas W. Ruckman, late sheriff, for his extra services from the 14th of Januar}', 1823, to the expiration of his term of service, $30.

Allowed Samuel Marshall, lister of Turtle Creek Township, $4.00. James Steinberger, appraiser, $1.00. Robert Swaney, lister of Amanda Township, $3.00. G. F. Wilkinson, lister of Perry Township, $4.00. Thomas E. English, appraiser as above, $1.00. John Botkin, lister of Green Township, $4.00. Jonathan Nichols, appraiser, 50 cents. Stever Julian, lister of Loramie Township, $3.00. John Beck, appraiser as above, $1.00. Wm. Hicks, lister of Cynthian Township, $3.00.

Allowed Joseph Stewart, surveyor, for surveying the road from Mosquito Creek to Michael Young's, three days, $4.50. Booth Burdette, two days' viewing same, $1.50. Peter Musselman, same service, $1.50. Chas. Johnston, chainman, $1.50. Wm. Montgomery, chainman, $1.50. Peter Princehouse, as viewer, 75 cents. Robert Cunningham, marker, 75 cents. John Stoker, marker, 75 cents.

Ordered that Charles Sterrett, proprietor of Sidney, have an order for $520.66, his full half of the proceeds of sale of lots sold in Sidney, that is now made. Except three-fourths of three lots considered forfeited for non-payment, to wit, lots Nos. 13, 88, and 91, one-fourth of which has been paid and accounted for; the other three-fourths depend only on the lots for paj ment, which, when collected, is to be accounted for, or one-half of what the lots may bring.

Allowed James Wells, late auditor, for one day's service for bringing his account up to the date of his resignation, $1.50 ; also for measure seal, $1.50. $3.00.

The report of the viewers appointed to locate a road beginning at the Bellefontaine road on Mosquito Creek, thence past Jonathan Nichols, John Stoker, and Michael Young, to intersect the Piqua road ; and the. same being read in open meeting yesterday and to-day, and no objections being made, the same is established a public highway, to be opened thirty feet wide.

Received the petition of James Dingman, Jr., and others, praying the vacation of a part of the State road from Sidney to Bellefontaine, from Plumb Creek to E. Kirtland's ; the same being read yesterday and today, is laid over to next meeting.

Received the petition of Francis Kendall and others, praying the vacation of the above State road from E. Kirkland to Alex. Jackson's; and the same being read yesterday and to-day, is laid over to next meeting.

Francis Rook has varied his donation subscribed to the Commissioners by giving a note for a barrel of whiskey, payable the first Monday in December next.

William Beatty is appointed collector of the State and county tax ; reappears and gave bond, with John Johnston, Robert Blakely, Jonathan Beatty, and Nathan Coleman, his sureties ; the county levy in the sum of $1000; and the State tax same securities, in $2000, and took oath of office in both.