Greenville Township (part 8 of 11)

The Exchange Bank was the next one organized in Greenville, and held a meeting for the purpose of starting a financial institution, on the 11th of January, 18(39. Frank McWhinney was the originator and proprietor. J. M. Landsdowne was appointed Cashier, and business begun. April 1, 1873, Mr. McWhinney sold to John L. Winner, who is the present owner. From the opening of the bank, the same building has been occupied - the one which stands on the southeast corner of Broadway and the public square. Previous to entering upon banking, Mr. McWhinney had been a merchant at El Dorado, Ohio. From that place he had gone to Madison, and engaged in merchandising and dealing in grain, while acting, also, as railroad agent.

The Bank of Greenville was organized February 22, 1876, b}- Messrs. Allen & Co., proprietors, with a capital stock of $200,000, the stockholders being held individually liable. The officers chosen were John Hufnagle, President ; Judge William Allen, Vice President, and L. L. Bell, Cashier. The Directors are John Hufnagle, Judge James J. Meeker, John Devor, Esq., and L. L. Bell. This bank always made good all its promises, and issued exchange every day, as called for, through the stringent times of 1877. There have been no changes in the officiary. Messrs. Hufnagle, Bell and Meeker are among the largest owners of real estate in Darke County. Mr. Hufnagle had been discounting for about forty years previous to the organization of the Greenville Bank, and L. L. Bell had been a broker and insurance agent for some years. Judge Allen was a practicing attorney, and had been a member of Congress four years. All the officers of the bank are old residents of Greenville, except Mr. Bell, and he has been here twelve years. The bank was first organized for three }-ears, at the expiration of which time the charter was renewed, and has been continued until the present time. The bank building is one of the best in the city, having been built for banking purposes expressly. It stands on the northwest corner of Broadway and Fourth streets.

The publication of newspapers from insignificant beginnings has become a most formidable and powerful agency in forming the people, molding public opinion and exposing wrong-doing. The press lias shown constant growth in the number of papers issued, in their character, size and composition. Allied with the telegraph, it has become the myriad-tongued voice of all peoples. It has enlarged the field of thought, imparted intelligence and stimulated enterprise, whether national in the construction of mountain tunnel, isthmus canal and overland railway, or local in the building of turnpikes, the drainage of land and improvement of towns. Preliminary to a brief history of the press of Darke County, a few facts of earlier record will be perused with general interest. The first press, we are told, was but a news bulletin. The first English newspaper was published in 1558, during the reign of Queen Elizabeth, and was in manuscript.

The first paper printed, was entitled the Politicvs Mercurius or Political Mercury, and was started during the reign of Charles I. in 1631, and continued through Cromwell's time. In 1775. there were in the United States 37 papers published. In 1810. the number was 358. In 1840, 2,000, and in 1850,2,500. The latter increase has kept pace with the progress of events, and the problem of the greatest amount of news within the shortest time, with the minimum seems to have reached a solution. The history of the press of Darke County is not unlike that of a thousand others. Short-lived ventures have sprung up like mushrooms and as suddenly expired. The stanch, well-known journals of the present, edited by experienced journalists, are a moral, educational and political power to which, perhaps unconsciously, the county owes much of its reputation for enterprise and intelligence.

The firsl paper in the county of Darke, was printed and published by E. Donnellan, and was entitled, the Western Statesman and Greenvilh Courier. The initial number was issued on -June 25, 1832. Its terms in brief, were as follows: "The Western Statesman and Greenville Courier is printed weekly on a super-royal sheet. The price is $3 per year, but may be discharged by payment of $2 in advance, or $2.50 within the year." ('(.pies of the pioneer paper are rarities, yet No Iti. Vol. 1. owned by M. L. Hamilton, of Greenville, furnishes an opportunity of making known the' contents of a paper of half a century ago. Extracts are' made from the Detroit Journal, New Hampshire Gazette, National Intelligencer and the Boston Patriot. The war with the Sacs and Foxes, led by Black Hawk, was near its close. An overwhelming force under Gen. Dodge, following the Indians, gave them no rest, and dead bodies found on the trail were emaciated l>\ starvation. Cures for cholera are given. A. Stober, tailor, advertises his place of business one door south of the jail, and John Briggs desires payment on the principle, frequent settlements make lasting friendships." and such as do not respond are threatened with the law. Announcements as candidates for the offices of Auditor. Assessor, Representative and Clerk, were made by Hiram Bell. Esq Col. M. J. Purviance, M. P. Baskersville and Dennis Hart, respectively. Wiliiam Brady calls attention to blacksmithing, John Curtis is silversmith and jeweler, and II. Bell is real-estate agent.

The Greenville Journal may be regarded as a continuation of the paper above noted, later changed in name to Journal, since which time it has enjoyed an uninterrupted publication, although changing owners and publishers many times during the first twenty years of its existence. The paper began to be published on April 19 1850, under the management of E. B. Taylor and J. G. Reese. The proprietors advocated Whig principles, and had for their motto: "Liberty and Union, now and forever, one and inseparable." The strength of political parties m th< county at this time is shown by the result of the fall elections of 1840 and 1850 In the former year, the Whig vote for Representative was 1.670. while the vote ol the Loco-focos was 1.519. Both parties did not come out in full strength in 1850, but the Whigs were the dominant party in the county by a small majority. On June 1, 1851, partnership was dissolved and Mr. Taylor for the time retired, having been connected with the paper under other names for seven years, and beginning with a list of 150 subscribers in 1844. M. B. Reese became a partner April 29,^1 852, and the Journal was edited and published by J. G. & M. B. Reese. Much space was taken by the publication of laws of Ohio in many numbers. In politics, the Whigs were stated to be "willing to stand by the compromise measure but no steps further." Unwilling to keep up the agitation about slavery, the fugitive-slave law was obeyed but disliked as unjust. The North did not want an influx of negroes, and acquiesced in the act, while its moral influence South was immense. July L, 1853, the Journal changed its name temporarily to The Marl Anthony, with frontier scene for heading, and taking as its motto, " Devoted to the propagation of truth and the elevation of the masses.

In the earl v part of 1860, the Journal was purchased from E. 15. Taylor, to whom it had passed from the hands of Messrs. Reese, by Messrs. E. W. Otwell and .binies M. Craig, who took possession of the same on the 14th day oi March,

1860, and published it under the firm name of E. W. Otwell & Co. V\ hen these gentlemen acquired the paper, they found a meager list of subscribers ; its circulation of bona ful< subscribers did not exceed one hundred and fifty. It was then a seven column folio. Under the new management numerous subscriptions were received, rapidly extending its influence, and the columns became much more readable and the paper increased in value as a family newspaper. The Presidential campaign which resulted in the election of Abraham Lincoln occurred in the summer and fall of 1860. In this political contest, which resulted m the triumph of the Republican party, the Journal was a stanch party organ, and has always stood firm and unshaken in its advocacy of the principles of its party. In April,

1861, when the war of the rebellion was commenced, and during the few years following, the times were trying for the existence of the paper. In due time,

On the 14th of December, 1869, the Journal again experienced a change in ownership, by the sale by Mr. Craig of his interest to E. W. Otwell, his partner, who then became the sole owner, publisher and editor, which he has continued to be from that time to the present.

On the 8th day of August, 1878, the Journal was enlarged to a nine-column folio, making it, at that time, the largest paper published in the county. In this shape and size it remained until 1879, when, on August 28. it was enlarged to the proportions of a seven-column quarto, making it again the largest newspaper then published in the county, and containing the greatest quantity of reading matter. On the 1st of September, 1879, E. W. Otwell entered the law office of Judge William Allen, and turned over the publication of the Journal to his son Curt Otwell. In April, 1880, the paper is prosperous, influential, and has a circulation of 1,176. with prospects of a steady increase in the number of its readers.

The Democratic Herald was started at Greenville. Ohio, in April. 1847. Previous to this date, the Democratic party in Darke had been without a home paper, the best and only paper in the interest of the part}- having been published about 1830, by C. B. Floyd, now of Columbus, and known widely as the veteran editor of the State. The Herald was published by Messrs. Mehaffey & Adams, and took for its motto, " The sovereignty of the people, the rights of the States, and a light and simple government/' Its name and motto indicate its principles. James Mehaffey had expected before the end of the first year to become sole proprietor, and to renew the publication in the second volume as the Union Democrat, "augmented in reading matter and sound in politics;" but the project failed, and instead he sold his interest to William Allen. Esq., who, in connection with Thomas Adams, conducted the paper as the Greenville Telegraph. Allen was then acting as Prosecuting Attornej*. Both men were high in popular estimation, persons of integrity and sound Democrats. They asked a fair chance, declaring that they " will condemn no man because he honestly possesses political principles differing from theirs." In June, 1851, Adams sold his interest, and was succeeded by Dr. J. L. Sorber, who conducted the paper until the fall of 1852. when Bums Putnam became the proprietor. The paper rapidly changed ownership and name, being by Putnam entitled the Mad Anthony, under which title it was issued until the summer of 1854. With the Know-Nothing excitement, young Putnam removed the press to Union City, Ind., where he started a paper in the interest of the American party, as it was called, in the fall of the same year.

In the fall of 1854, leading Democrats of the county raised a small sum by subscription, and Messrs. William Allen and Thomas Perry went to Cincinnati, and having purchased new press and metal, Mr. Perry was made the publisher of what was entitled the Greenville Eagle. But he suffered so many indignities at the hands of Know-Nothings, that at the end of six months he left in disgust, and the office was closed for a number of months. In the spring of 1855. A. G. Clark came from Hamilton to Greenville, and commenced the publication of the Darke Count)/ Democrat. At the end of a year or more, in July, 1856, Mr. Clark was superseded by Henry Miller, and the office was located over Messrs. Weston & I Tilery's hardware store, on the corner of Broadway and Third street. Mr. Miller took for his motto : " Truth crushed to earth will rise again : the eternal years of God are hers ;" and continued steadily to edit and publish the paper until March 20, 1861. when his connection ceased and his place was taken by Messrs. J. B. Price and George D. Farrar. Mr. Miller had been appointed Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas, in the place of Dr. W. C. Porterfield. deceased. The county which had been Whig till 1857. changed over during that year, and the Democracy succeeded in electing their entire county ticket, as they have done ever since. It was due to Mr. Miller that under him the Democrat was established on a permanent basis. Price conducted the publication until the office and threw the metal into the street. Subsequently other parties procured an interest in what was leftof the concern, and removed the office from the Weston building to Mechanics' building, where the paper was once more published. In a short time the paper was again sold to Messrs. McKay & Kinder, who continued the publication until their interest was purchased by Charles Roland, who removed to Greenville from Lancaster in 1866. Mr. Roland became proprietor and editor, and has continued to publish the paper to this date, and is in receipt of good success and hearty support - the appreciation paid by the public to acknowledged merit.

The Greenville Sunday Courier was started May 22, 1875, by George W. Calderwood, and December 10, 1876, A. R. Calderwood assumed editorial control and the paper was published by the firm of Calderwood & Studabaker. The office is in the third story of the Hart & Wilson New Block, on the corner of Third street and Broadway. It advocates Republican doctrines and has a growing circulation. Its prospectus opened with the following: '-The Sunday Courier lives a life of happiness and so will its readers. Consumptive men, on the verge of the grave, have recovered and are live and active men because they read it. Povertycursed individuals, almost at the door of the almshouse, have picked it up and saved themselves a life of wretchedness and woe. Statesmen have been brought from obscurity and elevated to position from casual glances over its columns."

The American Prohibitionist was published lor a time by George Calderwood. and. after a few months, was removed to Columbus. Its brief career in Greenville was promising. It waged an uncompromising war on saloons and gained rapidly in circulation. It was published at the office of the Daily Gazette, started in 1879 by the same publisher, Mr. Calderwood.

It is surprising how transitory is the existence of a newspaper ; it is the creation and has the existence of a da}'. There are no complete files of Darke County papers to be found, and their value is not realized till the time to use them is at hand. The present publishers of Darke County are men of experience, prominence and means ; they are all persons of sterling principles, and few counties can boast of more energetic workers.

in the early history of Darke County the schools were mainly supported by the individual contributions of the parents sending their children. The wages of teachers were low, averaging from $9 to $12 per month. The public fund received by each township was derived from Section 1(>. which was spoken of as the '; school section." It was finally sold, the purchase money paid to the State Treasurer, and the interest on the same is still divided among the several school districts in the townships. The educational interests of the county have always received that attention from the people that their importance seemed to demand. Often, when the farmer had done his day's work, he would attend the evening school, organized byprivate enterprise, and not only become a student himself, but by his presence and influence encourage the children and youth to renewed diligence in acquiring even a limited education. Among the early teachers of the county we will mention Rev. Mr. Swallow, who preached in different localities, and at the same time taught grammar schools wherever he could collect a class. But grammar was :i step in advance of the requirements of the teacher of the day school, who was only required to teach reading, writing, and arithmetic to the - single rule of three." We can certainly notice a contrast between the requirements of the teacher then and now. Henry I >. Williams taught in 1830 and Is:;."., and after ward became County Treasurer. Dow Roll, Mrs. Mdntyre, .John Townsend and Noaii Arnold were among the pioneer teachers of the county, and did efficient work in the schoolroom. Schools were held about three months, and were supported by the income of Section Hi. tines and individual contributions, until the present financial school-law went into operation. But fines only yielded a small sum, the proceeds of Section 16 were small, when apportioned among the several schools of the township ; money was scarce and difficult to obtain, either by labor or produce, for there was but little demand for either, and had it not been for the low wages of teaching, schools could not have been continued for three months. The first schoolhouses in the county were rude structures, built of round logs, covered by clapboards, held in their places by poles laid upon them. The writing desks were generally slabs, laid upon pins driven in holes bored in the wall, while the seats were rude benches made of slabs, with two holes bored in each end, into which the legs were driven. The floors were also made of puncheon, dressed on one side, and the writer remembers that the second house in which he taught had only a part of the floor thus made, while the other part was the gi'ound leveled off to correspond with the puncheons, and ground-squirrels and rats would frequently come out of their holes, during school hours, and run across the floor, to the no small amusement of the pupils.

In many of the schools, pupils were required to study in a loud tone, and hence called a loud school, the object being to let the teacher know they were engaged upon their lessons, and not in mischief. Classes in arithmetic and writing were never formed, but each pupil " ciphered away at will," and received personal assistance from the teacher when the same was needed. Writing was taught by the teacher " setting the copy.'' and the pupil trying to imitate the same. The "quill pen " was used by the pupil, and the "master" was expected to make the pen, and mend the same when the pupil thought it unfit for use. The custom of " barring out" the teacher, and compelling him to "treat," about the holidays, was indulged in by the pupils as a general custom, and sanctioned b}' the parents ; but this relic of barbarism has almost entirely disappeared from our schools. Until the present school law went into operation, there were two County School Examiners, who examined applicants for certificates to teach school, at any time they were called upon, the fee being fifty cents, and the grade of qualification necessarily low, compared with the qualifications during the past twenty years. Among the early Examiners, we may mention John Beers, Dr. J. Briggs, C. F. Dempsey. J. R. Knox and A. L. Northrop ; the latter also taught school in 1844, and claims that he first taught mental arithmetic in the schools under his charge. He afterward became County Auditor, and has ever been a warm friend of education, and a firm supporter of our common-school system. John Beers, John Wharry. J. R. Knox and William Allen were, respectively, members of the Board of Examiners until the year 1856, when C. G. Matchett, E. B. Putnam and ^G. H. Martz constituted the board. This board required mental arithmetic to be taught, and made it a grade of qualification for the teacher. Many applicants for certificates were rejected for incompetency ; the standard of teaching was raised, and the schools necessarily took a higher standing in education and usefulness. A vacancy occurred in the board, by the death of E. B. Putnam, and A. T. Bodle was appointed a member of the same. At the breaking-out of the rebellion, C. G. Matchett raised a company of the Fortieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, served with honor and distinction during the war, and, at its close, located, as a lawyer. in Greenville, Ohio, filled the office of Prosecuting Attorney with fidelity, and is now a prominent member of the Greenville liar. G. II. Martz followed teaching for a number of years, served four years as Treasurer of Darke County, and is now serving his third term as County School Superintendent of Greenwood County. Kan. A. T. Bodle followed the profession of teaching for a number of years, and is now a prominent member of the Greenville bar. The first meeting of teachers was held about the year 1856, the object being the mutual exchange of views relative to the duties and responsibities of teachers. In 1859, A. T. Bodle. L. S. B. Otwell and J. T. Martz, being then School Examiners, in connection with other teachers organized the Darke County Teachers' Association, which was kept alive for some time ; and, after the enactment of the law creating a teachers institute fund Avas passed, the association was re-organized, and has been kept in existence from thai time to the present. J. T. Martz has been President of this association for a number of years, and. previous to March. 1879. was member <»f the Board of School Examiners for more than twenty successive years. He has taught a number of normal schools for teachers, in different parts of the county. With Prof, bang, of Gambier, Ohio. A. -J. Backoff, Superintendent of the public schools of Cleveland, Ohio, and Rev. A. L. McKinney, of Troy. Ohio, he held the first teachers' institute in the county. He has been one of the instructors of the Darke Count}" Teachers' Institute for a number of 3'ears, and has just completed his ninth successive year as Superintendent of the Greenville Union School. The last teachers' institute enrolled 150 members, and was one of the most successful held in the county. Hon. T. W. Harvey. John Hancock, Rev. J. F. Reinmund, and other distinguished educators of the State, have been teachers and lecturers at our institutes, and they have taken front rank with like institutes in the State.

Education in the county seems to be progressive. The public schools are generally well attended, and there seems to be a desire on the part of both teacher and pupil to make all possible progress in the acquisition of knowledge. Teachers make themselves acquainted with the modern methods of teaching, and adopt the same when preferred. Graded schools have been established at the following places, and under the control of the following Superintendents : At Bradford, D. S. Myers ; at Gettysburg, Rev. C. W. Shoate ; at Versailles, J. E. Polly ; at Dallas, J. S. Royer, who is also a member of the Board of Examiners at Union City, Ohio side. B. F. Landis is Superintendent at New Madison ; Thomas Eubank, who is also a member of the Board of Examiners, at Arcanum. A goodly showing this, of nine graded schools in the county, together with 200 schoolhouses, requiring 250 teachers. It will be well in this connection to review somewhat the history of education in the State in order to understand how it has been possible to reach the present system of education in the county of Darke.

Ohio, educationally, has been a favored state. When, nearly a century ago. the Confederate Congress passed an act for the survey of Western lands, one section of each township was reserved " for the maintenance of public schools within said township." In the act for governing the Northwest Territory, passed July 13, 1787, it was provided: "Religion, morality and knowledge being necessary to good government and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall forever be encouraged." Later, one-thirty-sixth of the entire land of the State was given to the State in trust for the support of schools. The State constitution of 1802 provided: "Religion, morality and knowledge being essentially necessary to good government and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of educal ion shall forever be encouraged by legislative provision, not inconsistent with the rights of conscience." Despite these provisions for education, the schools of Darke, as intimated in earlier chapters, were for many years of little moment. The law of 1821 left it to the vote of each township whether school districts should be formed. Four years Inter, action in this regard was changed, and Township Trustees were required to divide the township into districts. A tax for schools was levied by the county ami provided a fund of about $10 for one ordinary country district.

In 1838, the first efficient law was adopted by the General Assembly. It provided that School Directors " may determine the studies to be pursued in each school, so that reading, writing and arithmetic may lie taught in the English language." In 1849, teachers, in addition to examination in spelling, reading, writing and arithmetic, were required to show qualifications in geography and grammar. The present cost, condition and value of Darke County schools may be ascertained by a consideration of the following statistics for the year 1879 : local tax for school and sehoolhouse purposes gave $68,333.56 ; the amount received on sale of bonds was $940: from other sources, $1,611.49 - thus making the total receipts $167,320.62. The following were the disbursements during the same year : The amount paid teachers was - primary, $58,276.99 ; high school. $6,095 - total $64,371.99 ; managing and superintending, $675 ; sites and buildings, $10,892.79 ; bond interest, $8,205.66 ; fuel and other expenses, $18,925.53 : a total expenditure of $103,070.97 - leaving a balance, September 1, 1878, of $64,249.65. The State received, during the fiscial year ending November 15. 1878. from the county, of common-school fund, $18,586.15, and paid to the county $19,899. or an excess of $1,312.86. The number of youths between six and twenty-one was 13,175. The Section 16 school fund amounted to $5,135.92.

Darke has 20 townships. 177 subdivisions, 9 separate districts and 9 subdivisions, included in separate districts. During the year, 5 primary schoolhouses were erected in the townships, at a cost of $5,000. The value of school property is about $200,000 in townships and $130,000 in separate districts, or a total of about $330,000. There were 230 schoolrooms, requiring 231 teachers. There were employed, within the year, 186 gentlemen and 71 ladies, in primary schools : 22 gentlemen and 24 ladies, in separate districts, or a total of 303 teachers. The number of teachers who taught the entire time the schools were in session were 154. The average wages of gentlemen, in primary township schools, was $38: ladies, $26. In separate districts - primary, $49 ; ladies, $32 ; high, gentlemen. $61. The average number of weeks' schools were in session, was 28, 31 and 33^ The local tax of townships, 1878-79, was 3.4 ; separate districts, 7. The number of pupils enrolled within the year was : of boys, 4,973 ; girls, 4,161 - total, 9,124 ; in primary, in townships : separate districts - primary, boys, 1.050 ; girls, 958 ; high! ooys, 201 ; girls, 197 - total, 2,406 ; grand total, 11,530. The average daily attendance was 6,918, the per cent, in townships, being 76, and in separate districts, 82.

The School Examiners of Darke, in 1879, were E. B. Leitz, J. T. Martz and E. Lockett, the last named resident of Gettysburg. Eighteen meetings were held for examination of teachers ; 368 gentlemen made application for license and 187 ladies - total. 555 ; of these 205 were rejected. Fourteen persons, all gentlemen, received license for two years ; 46 for eighteen months ; 226 for a year, the remainder for six months ; entire number licensed, 350 ; 37 per cent were rejected. The institute, held at Greenville, commenced August 19. 1878, was in session eleven days, and 160 persons were in attendance.

Thus briefly we learn of the large sums annually paid for education, the full supply of teachers, the fair wages and the increasing exactions of the people for better qualifications. The institute, the high schools and the common schools provide means for acquiring that knowledge so indispensable to the control and instruction of the young. The schools are by no means perfect, but they are progressive, and, as compared with the past, have shown surprising advance.

The local historian nowhere finds a more interesting field for research, or one more fruitful, than that which embraces the experience of the pioneers of Darke - the men who literally hewed out the county from the sturdy and unbroken forest, wherein the ax of the woodman had never before resounded ; who conquered a scanty subsistence from the unused soil which the plowshares of civilization had never disturbed ; who not only were hindered by these primitive and inert conditions, but positively opposed by the rigors of the climate, the malarial influences of the atmosphere, and the depredations of wild animals; whose crops were even preyed upon by the birds of the forest and the smaller predatory animals. But '- peace hath her victories," and adversity and savagery combined withstood not the constant onward march of the vanguard of the grand army of civilization, whose pioneers, discharging their daily routine of duty, unwittingly recorded their deeds in history.

Desirous of the benefits of association, the following-named pioneers met in Hart's Grove, July 4, 1870. and there organized the first pioneer association ot Darke County, viz.: Henry Arnold, Aaron Hiller, Israel Cox, John S. Hiller, David Studabaker. John YVharry, Josiah D. Elston. James Cloyd, John Martin, Robert Martin, Henry W. Emerson, John Stahl and William F. Bishop, in all thirteen. < >n motion, James Cloyd was elected President ; John S. Hiller. Vice President ; Henry W. Emerson, Second Vice President; John Wharry, Secretary, and II. Arnold, Treasurer. The following was the preamble to the constitution and by-laws: "We, the undersigned, citizens of Darke County, Ohio, believing it commendable to collect and preserve all the incidents and reminiscences as connected with the early settlement of our county, and to preserve them, that those who follow us will, in some degree, be made acquainted with the manners, ens toms, difficulties, hardships and trials incident to the settlement of a wilderness county, do establish this our constitution, etc." Again, in a year and a day, the pioneers met at the same place. There was singing b}' Greenville people, prayer by Rev. Levi Purviance, music by Arcanum Band, address by Hon. G. V. Dorsey, of Piqua, on " Pioneers and Pioneer History," and other music by band and choir, when '' there was served just such a dinner as pioneers are capable of getting ; an overwhelming abundance of the best the land affords, prepared with a culinary skill and neatness peculiar to our pioneer mothers." In the afternoon, G. B. Holt and others gave voluntary addresses, then with due and appropriate ceremonies, the remains of the two Wilson girls, who had been slain by the Indians, were disinterred, buried in the Greenville Cemetery, and a suitable monument erected to commemorate them. The semi-annual meeting was held at the court house in Greenville, January 1, 1872. An address was delivered by Dr. I. N. G-ard, and it abounded in historical allusions to events in the early day. It is a subject of deep regret that the addresses delivered before the association had not been written and the papers filed with the Secretary, as the subject matter, however interesting, was lost in its utterance so far as there was any benefit to posterity. A dinner was concluded by a dessert of corn-bread and milk. In the afternoon there was an -'experience meeting," greatly enjoyed. Israel Cox presented the society with a cabin door made in 1810, of clapboards pinned together by wooden pins and hung on wooden hinges. The annual meeting was held at the fair grounds. The death of James Cloyd was formally announced, suitable resolutions were passed, the constitution was amended, and II. K. McConnell chosen Corresponding Secretary. This gentleman then delivered an address on " The Early History of the County." followed by II. W. Emerson, Dr. Card. J. S. Hiller and others, when the roll was signed by quite a number of persons. On duly t. 1ST.'!, the association met at Morning-Star Grove, Greenville, President Hiller in the chair; William Allen read the Declaration of Independence, when rain threatened and the meeting was adjourned to the court house, where addresses were delivered by Abner Haines, of Eaton, <!. D. Hendricks and others. Again. .January 1, 1874, the association met at Greenville and listened to a well-prepared, interesting address upon The growth of the country, its resources, and future possibilities." A vote of thanks was tendered the Judge therefor. Aaron Hiller was chosen Secretary, vice Wharn resigned. A Bible presented by .Mrs. J. W. Frizzell was placed in the care of the Corresponding Secretary. The constitution was amended to admit pioneer women as members, and true to the gallantry of "ye olden times," the membership fee was remitted. At a semi-annual session, New Year's Da}r, 1874, the constitution was amended to require five in place of three Vice Presidents, whereupon William Arnold and Lemuel Rush were unanimously chosen. Death was busy before the assembly on July 4, 1874, and H. Arnold, Mrs. Jane Arnold and Mrs. Nancy Gilbert were appointed a committee to draft and report suitable resolutions of condolence on the death of Mrs. Delilah A. Harper. The record at this point contains the following

Roll Of Pioneers

On January 1. 1875, the association met in the jury -rooms of the new court house. President in the chair. Meeting was opened with prayer by L. B. Lott. The roll was completed as just given. Mr. Lott was elected Assistant Secretary. D. D. Hunter, N. Arnold and David Craig, appointed as a committee to secure a speaker, recommended the Hon. William Allen, of Greenville.

In consequence of recent rains, the place of the next meeting, on July 5. 1875, was changed from the new fair grounds to the court house, Vice President Emerson in the chair. The thanks of the association were tendered the Hon. Allen for his anniversary address.

It was ascertained that Jane Hart. Lemuel Rush, Aaron Hiller and Lewis Byram had resided in the county sixty years ; and 11. \Y. Emerson. J. M. Brady. David Craig, Mrs. House. R. L. Ross. Peter Weaver. George Arnold and James B. Brandon each not less than fifty-five years.

II. W. Emmerson was advanced to the presidency to fill vacancy caused by death of John S. Hiller. Two Vice Presidents. William Arnold and Asa Rush. having also died, there were three vacancies in the office of Vice President, which were filled by the appointment of Dennis Hart, David Studabaker and Jame9 B. Brandon.

August 3, 1876, the association met on the fair grounds, President in the chair. Prayer by Elder C. M. Sharp. Reports of committees received. At the afternoon session, W. 8. Harper presented the " Constitution of the Darke County Library Association,'' which was accepted and filed. W. S. Harper read a poem entitled. " A Hundred Years Ago." George Arnold was elected Vice President, vice J. li. Brandon, deceased.

The association met in the Probate Court room July 11, 1877, and listened to an address by Emerson, relative to early settlement, and others spoke of the same subject, among them David Brown, eighty-six years of age.

A session was held August 3, 1877, at the city hall, Greenville. Speeches were made, and the committee on deceased members reported the demise of James R. Brandon, Hannah Hunter, L. N. Byram, Sarah Stokely, Aaron Fleming, John McClure, Adam Beam, Isaac Cox. D. P. Judy and J. Mendenhall, a heavy mortality calling away so man}-.

The session of July 5, 1879, was held in the Probate Court room, with President F. L. Hamilton in the chair. Following prayer, by Chaplain C. M. Sharp, Samuel Hahn and William F. Bishop were elected Vice Presidents, and Joseph Cole, Jr., Secretary. An address was delivered by G. V. Dorsey, of Piqua Thanks were tendered and the meeting adjourned.

On June 2, 1879, the pioneers, headed by the silver cornet band, met at the city hall in Greenville, whence they proceeded with, C. G. Matchett as Marshal, to the fair ground. The association was called to order by the President. Lemuel Rush. The exercises began by reading the thirtieth Psalm and prayer by Elder T. A. Brandon, of Union City. The death of F. L. Hamilton was reported, and the election of Thomas P. Turpen to fill vacancy caused by promotion of Mr. Rush to the presidency. A speech was made in the afternoon by A. B. Calderwood ; he was followed by Norman Sumner, of Atlanta. 111. Mr. Sumner had settled in Darke in 1817. and had moved away about 1850. Other speeches were made. when the society adjourned.

The following are present officers : Lemuel Bush. President : David Studabaker. First Vice President; George Arnold. Second Vice President: Samuel Halm. Third Vice President : W. F. Bishop. Fourth Vice President : Thomas B. Turpen. Fifth Vice President; Henry Arnold, Treasurer ; W. S. Harper. Corresponding Secretary ; Joseph Cole. Jr.." Secretary ; L. B. Scott. Assistant Secretary. On October 28, 1879, Mr. Cole tendered his resignation as Secretary of the association. It is hoped that the future of the society may be marked by care in securing and filing reminiscences and addresses for the benefit of coming generations.

The Darke County Medical Society supplies a part of an interesting chapter. It could do more were it to have engrossed the story of labors performed, fatigue endured and unselfish efforts made to relieve suffering. Too often sacrifices were coupled with slight prospect of remuneration, but to the honor of the profession be it said that humanitarian considerations have ever outweighed the thoughts of personal profit. Even in the fee bill of 1867, exceptions were made " in cases where charit}' may induce a departure therefrom." At a meeting held July 15, 1848, the physicians of Darke County assembled, called Dr. I. N. (lard to the Chair, and Dr. J. E. Matchett was chosen Secretary. It was made known that the organization of a County Medical Society was the object of the meeting and Drs. Otwell, Baskerville. Koogler, Stiles and Dorwin were appointed a committee to draft constitution and by-laws. Drs. Hostetter, Ajrres, Harter, Larrirnore and Matchett were chosen to draft and report a bill of prices ; and Drs. Gilpatrick, Potts, Howe and Evans a committee to report a code of laws and medical ethics. The constitution was adopted by articles seriatim., following which the constitutions and b}r-laws were agreed to by a unanimous vote. I. N. Gard was chosen President for the ensuing year ; R, Gilpatrick, Vice President ; A. Koogler, Recording Secretary : 0. G. Potts, Corresponding Secretary, and Alfred Ayers, Treasurer. Drs. C. Otwell, J. M. Baskerville and R. Gilpatrick were chosen Censors. Other reports were referred back to their committees. They assembled next at Temperance Hall. Greenville. July 29, 1848. disposed of sundry matters and ordered 200 copies of the constitution printed. Twelve physicians were present. A regular meetingwas held October 7, at which President Gard read his " inaugural address." Dr. Otwell read a dissertation on quackery, following which he offered the following : "Resolved, That the members of this Society discountenance the making and vending or recommending the use of any patent medicines for curing intermittent fevers." It was referred to a special committee.

Dissertations were read on April 9, 1849, by different members and placed on file. Dr. Harter was received as a member, and essayists appointed for the next session. Meetings were held at intervals and, finally, discontinued to be renewed May 16, 1855. when Dr. Gard. President. A. Ayres, Treasurer, W. H. Matchett. Secretary pro tem., and J. E. Matchett, E. Lynch, Hostetter, S. D. Hager and I. I. Larrirnore were present. An election was held resulting in the choice of J. E. Matchett for President ; Hostetter. Vice President ; A. Ayres, Treasurer ; E. Lynch, Recording Secretaiy. and I. N. Gard, Corresponding Secretary. Drs. Hager and Matchett were presented and recorded as members. Two months later, twelve members were present at a session, at which Dr. Jobes, Blunt, McCandless. Carey. Williamson and Lecklider were unanimously received into the society. A break occurring here extended to April 16, 1863, when the society convened at the office of Dr. J. E. Matchett for re-organization. Drs. John Ford, Francis Kuswick. S. K. Sour. J. P. Gordon and A. Koogler were received as members, and an election held with the result following : E. Otwell, President ; J. C. Williamson. Vice President ; E. Lynch, Secretaiy ; J. A. Jobes, Corresponding Secretary, and A. Koogler, Treasurer. At the next meeting, held in Smith & Ullery's Hall, May 14. 1863, nineteen members were present. An address was read by the President. entitled "Union, in its application to the .Medical Profession." Drs. C. T. Evans, W. E. Hoover. James Ruby and H. W. Dorwin were received as members. Various meetings were held at which the experience of members was given, unusual is noted, and, on July 7. 1864. Dr. Theo Luff was admitted a member. February, 9. 1865, J. E. Packler and <). E. Lucas became members, and Dr. Otwell resigned. From this period forward, the sessions were profitable to members, affording opportunity for comparing modes and illustrating cases. Meetings continued regularly until 1880. On May 20, 1869, E. Lynch, President, read an inaugural address. On October 6, an interesting meeting was held at which twenty-two members were present.

Personal of the Profession. - Among the early pioneers in the practice, were two men of culture and refinement - Drs. Briggs and Perrine. The former was a YiTmonter ; came to Darke in 1S17 ; settled in Greenville, where, in 1847. he died. The latter practiced in Greenville, and the range of his professional calls extended from the Whitewater to remote parts of the county, and even into Jay and Randolph, in Indiana. There "were no county infirmaries, in many cases noteven Township Trustees, to provide for the poor, and the Doctor had often a labor of love. Dr. Baskerville was an ornament to his profession. Among veterans, are Drs. Gard,

Otwell. Lynch and the Drs. Matchett. From 1848 to 1869, fifty -four physicians were enrolled as members of the association, and seventeen of these fell before the enemy whose advance they might retard but not prevent.

The Darke County Bar Association was established in 1854, principally for the purpose of constructing and adopting a fee bill. Judge John Beers was President, The association did not continue long in existence, but the fee bill has been substantially adhered to up to this time, being recognized by the courts and the profession in the county. The spirit that led to the scale of prices was much to protect clients, as is proved by the unvaried scale of remuneration during the inflation of war times.

The Greenville Bar. - Greenville is the home of a number of good lawyers, men generally good in intention, pleadings and ability. To write the history of the bar would require a knowledge of the days of Judges Beers and Crane, William Crane. Luther Montfort. Dempsey and the like, but the brief sketches which follow will inform the reader who and what compose the bar of to-day.

In the spring of 1868, Charles Anderson, of Pennsylvania, came to Greenville. He had served during the war, taught school, read law, and being admitted to practice, demonstrated fine ability, promises well, and has one of the finest libraries in town.

William Allen was born in Butler County August 13, 1827, admitted 1849. and commenced practice in Greenville. He served two terms as Prosecuting Attorney, and published a newspaper ; was a member of Thirty-sixth and Thirtyseventh Congresses, and was, by appointment. Judge of Common Pleas Court. declined a nomination for Congress, from ill health, in 1878 ; controls a large practice, and is peer to any member of the bar. He is impressive in speech at the forum, and sociable at private life.

Matthew T. Allen, of Butler County, attended Otterbein University ; began study of law in 1866, was admitted in 186!). and appointed Prosecuting Attorney for the Ninth Judicial Circuit of Indiana. He removed to ibis city in 1872.

Theodore Beers was born in Darke County in 1826; began practice at the age of twenty-six ; has of late years acted as Justice of the Peace, and is well read in law. valuable in council, and quite popular.

David Beers, also a native of the county, has practiced since 1843. At the age of sixty-three, he has the esteem of the entire bar. and is faithful to clients. litigating orJy from good cause shown.

Henry Calkins, now filling the office of Prosecuting Attorney for a second term, was born in Bradford County, Penn., in 1832 ; was Captain of Compan} C. Eighty-seventh Indiana Volunteers. He read law in Jersey County, ill., in 1868 ; came to Greenville in 1-71.

Judge A. T. Bodle came to Darke in 1843, and for some years was a school teacher: he was appointed Probate Judge, resumed practice of law on retiring from office, and is precise, scholarly, and a good reasoner.

M. C. Benhani. of Warren County, was admitted February I. 1ST * > ; his previous life having been in commercial pursuits, he makes that branch a specialty.

J. E. Braden was born in June. lsr>L': common education, attended law school at Cincinnati, and. having read law. was admitted in January. 1879.

Jacob Baker was horn in 1840; was student at Salem College, was admitted in January, 1864 : was elected to the Legislature ; returning, he resumed practice

John C. Clark Henry M. Cole. J. C Elliott, Charles Frizzell, R. S. Frizzell, D. 1*. Irwin and S. Judy are :il! of them lawyers who have practiced, or are in practice, the bar of this county.

Charles Calkins, native of Pennsylvania, where he was born February 11. 1 827 ; was in the lumber trade nine years ; went to California in 1849, returned, read law, and is in practice.

John and Elijah Devor are natives of Greenville - sons of one of the original proprietors of the town. The former was admitted at Troy, in 1853 ; has served as Register in Bankruptcy, and is a man of means and enterprise. The latter has been practicing since 1871 ; has been City Solicitor ; is Secretary of the Gas Company, and partner in practice with Judge Bodle.

Richard S. Dills is thirty-two years of age ; is a linguist, and has given much attention to scientific investigation ; began practice in Greenville in 1876, as partner of D. P. Bowman, deceased ; since officed with Hon. J. Baker.

Barnabas Collins was born in Preble County May 26, 1836 ; his father, William Collins, was a lawyer and clergyman of good standing. His early life was an example of industry ; he was an indefatigable student. When fifteen years of age, Mr. Kirkham, author of a once well-known Grammar, visited Williamsport, selling his work, and. noticing Collins, sold him a book at half price. He continued as he had begun, and ultimately became one of the best-educated men of -his day ; he was well informed in theology, as well as law, and was acquainted with other subjects outside of these professions. He settled in Randolph County, Ind., in 1831, when he married. About 1845, he located at Euphemia, Preble County. In the spring of 1849, he moved to Greenville, and while officiating in the pulpit, built up an extensive law practice. His death was September 5, 1855. Barnabas was the second son in a family of six children ; he passed his youth as practical printer ; supplemented a brief common-school education by a tutelage under Calvin Parker, a term at Delaware College, and an extended course in science and literature ; was admitted in 1858. In the spring of 1862, he was nominated State Senator on the Union ticket, but entered the army as First Lieutenant in the Eighty-sixth Indiana ; returned, settled in Greenville, and, later, moved to California.

A. R. Calderwood was born in Montgomery County September 4, 1818 ; he removed, with his parents to Darke in 1832 ; was carpenter, teacher, student at law, and admitted in 1851 ; elected Probate Judge in 1854 ; Captain of Company I, Fortieth Ohio Volunteers ; a recruiting officer at home, and has been three times elected Mayor of Greenville, besides holding a number of local offices of trust.

L. B. Lott is about fifty years of age ; represented Darke County one term in the Legislature ; finally engaged in farming, in which pursuit he continues.

J. T. Martz was born in Darke County September 14, 1833, and has an early experience of hard work. When a boy, he chopped and hauled cordwood to earn money to pay his school tuition. When of age. he had saved from his labor and by teaching $250. He graduated in the scientific course, at Delaware, in 1856, and had $2.50 remaining. From this time till 1861 he taught school and read law. was admitted, had brief practice, when elected Superintendent of Union Schools, which position he filled till 1865, when he was appointed receiver of the Mackinaw Railroad. Was again chosen Superintendent of Public Schools in Greenville, in 1871. and continues to hold and to fill the position. In Mr. Martz are combined the essential elements of tact, ability, energy, honesty and true manhood, qualities certain to win their possessors success, whatever their vocation.

C. G. Matchett was born in Darke County May (i. 1832. He began the study of law in May, 1853, graduated in the class of 1855-66 at the Cincinnati Law College, from which he received the degree of LL. B. April 15, 1856. he was admitted to the bar and began practice a few months later. In 1860, his health failing, he sought by travel to find a more congenial location, but finding a warlike spirit prevailing in the South while there, returned home November 1. 1860. and devoted his time to military studies. He entered the service immediately alter the firing on

J. T. Meeker was horn in Darke in 1831 ; was a school teacher ; was admitted in 1873 ; was Probate Judge seven years. Retiring-, he entered upon practice, and is connected with other interests.

E. W. Otwell was born in North Carolina in 1831 : graduated at Delaware, Ohio ; read law, and was admitted in 1856. Entered upon profession of journalist in 1860, and continues in that work as proprietor of the Greenville Journal.

Temperance efforts were made by individuals at an early date, but it was not till 1837 or 1838 that our record shows anything like an organized or co-operative effort. About the time stated. Samuel Cole. Peter Kimber and Father Murphy, all residents near Ooleville, agreed that intemperance was a dangerous evil where - ever prevalent, and set themselves not to supply intoxicating liquors thereafter in harvest, at raisings and other occasions. They experienced some trouble in securing help, but held to their compact.

In 1842. the Washingtonians sprang up in Greenville and all the adjacent country. A temperance revival was effected at Fort Jefferson by Porter, a shoe maker by trade, and a hard drinker, from Cincinnati. After a prolonged debauch this man's life had been saved by Dr. Muzzey, who. finding him more than ordinarily intelligent and resolved on reform, encouraged him to enter the lecture field, and in a tour that embraced a large part of the State, he came to Darke County. Prominent men, such as Dr. 1. N. Card. Gen. Hiram Bell. Judge Beers and Dr. Gilpatrick lent their co-operation, and the Washingtonians not only increased rapidly in numbers in Greenville, but organizations sprang up in every village in the county. The three last-named persons systematically canvassed the count}', and held frequent discussions. Abstinence was a novel idea, and it met earnest opposition by some very good, well-meaning men. Judge Beers treated the subject ironically, and attracted large audiences. He argued that " if no one became drunk, all would become respectable and there would be none to do menial service ; that the doctors would soon starve, the lawyers would have to share the same fate, and the ministers would gather all the sinners into the fold and find their occupation gone." Sometimes a drunken man was sent in to break up the meeting. The temperance men held on well, did much good, but gradually gave way to other organizations.

From 1855 to 1858 inclusive, the Sons of Temperance flourished, and the membership in Greenville was over two hundred. A decadence finally took place after the society had established a footing in every village and wrought marked and beneficial changes in public sentiment touching this great topic.

In January. 1S0S. under a dispensation from the Grand Lodge of the 9 Greenville Lodge. No. 52 1. I. 0. G. T., was organized. Mr. Macomber, then Principal of the Greenville schools, was the first Worthy Chief Templar: .Mrs. |). R. Adams. W. X .. and Dr. Iv Lynd, W. C. The order has ceased to exist, and its records are inaccessible. The organization was effected over the store of George W. Moore, in his hall, on the corner of Third street and Broadway. After a few meetings, the order removed to the hall over what was then the store of Nathani< Webb (now .Mr. Leer's). Meetings were held at the residence of Mrs. Deborah Gerard, and finally in the present Masonic Hall. At the close of the first year, the order numbered sixty-five: its maximum strength was reached in 18tii>-7<». when there were nearly two hundred members. From this time, interest declined. The Young Templars were organized August 17, 1870. under the title, Greenville Commandery, No. 3. They met in Hart's Hall. Among the leaders were Dr. Sharp, E. Matehett. Mrs. Keen and Mis. D. Adams. There was at one time forty members. It had an existence of but two years.

The Women's Christian Temperana /'///"//was formed at Greenville February 19, 1880. and numbers about forty members. The officers are Mrs. May Ferguson, President : Mesdames Martin. Adams. Webb, Eastman, Frances Clark, Gross, Vice

The Cm m<l<- began in Greenville in February, 1874. About seventy ladies met at a previously designated place to begin the work. Rain required the use of umbrellas, and the novel procession, as it moved along from one saloon to another, presented a somewhat grotesque appearance. But the work was resolutely continued until the July following. At one time, all saloons were closed and remained so until after spring elections.

The temperance movement again assumed new interest in 1877. Among early converts was George Calderwood, who has acquired reputation as an earnest worker in the cause. Many of the oldest professional and other citizens are either lifelong teetotallers or are from principle strictly abstinent. Temperance was the issue in the spring election of 1880. Papers were published, the Gazette and the American Prohibitionist, in the interest of the cause and candidates, with general success.

The Young Men's Christian Association of Greenville, auxiliary to the State Association, was organized February, 1878. The first meeting was held in Allen's Hall, corner of Broadway and Fourth street, the use of which has been ever since generously donated by William Allen its proprietor. The officers during the first year were : R .T. Johnson. President ; George A. Harter, Vice President ; J. Arnold, Secretaiy ; Albert Miller. Treasurer. Second year : George Harter, President ; A. N. Brewer, Vice President ; C. M. Ensmiger, Secretary : the latter remained in office a brief time, resigned and Alpha Miller was chosen to fill the vacancy. The first year, thirteen meetings were held in the hall, twelve in the infirmary and eight in the band park ; total, thirty -three. Meetings have also been held in various schoolhouses and churches in various parts of the county.

The Darke County Bible Society. - At a union meeting of the various churches, held in the M. E. Church, at Greenville, December 22, 1861, for the purpose of reviving this society, which was first organized in July, 1835, following the delivering of a sermon by Rev. W. Herr, General Agent of the American Bible Society, Judge Wilson was called to the chair and George H. Martz appointed Secretaiy. whereupon a constitution was adopted and officers chosen, viz.: W. Wilson, President ; John Wharry, Vice President ; G. H. Martz, Secretaiy ; H. C. Angel, Depositaiy ; Executive Committee - John H. Martin, Thomas Adams, T. H. Mc- Cune, J. A. Schmermand. J. N. Biddle, C. Kline and H. H. Rush. On January 7. 1S62, eight ladies were appointed to canvass the town for subscriptions. May 11, Rev. Herr preached an anniversarv sermon. Contributions by the churches were si'.']. 79 ; 1,920 families had been visited by the county agent, Rev. J. Scott ; 191 families had no Bible, 6-4 were partially supplied, and 297 children had no Testaments, and 64 meetings had been held. May 17, 1863, the Sabbath schools had contributed $55.22. The Bible Depositor}* was then located at the depot of the Dayton & Union Railway. The progress of the society financially and in extension of interest was satisfactory, and thanks were tendered pastors, churches and Sabbath schools for aid given. The depositor}' was placed at Adams & Snyder's store. On January 28, 1866, a jubilee meeting was held, addresses were made and collection taken. Rev. A. Miller was chosen to canvass the county in 1 867, to organize township branch societies, but no work was done. Rev. S. B. Sheeks, in 1868, canvassed the county, visited 1.943 families, sold many Bibles and Testaments, appointed 8 township societies, 30 social agents. There were forty Protestant churches in the field, of which twenty-four were co-operative ; traveled 1.050 miles, held 9 Bible meetings and delivered 30 addresses. On August 8, 1870, there were $311.23 worth of books on hand. In July, 1871, $330.50. Rev. C. L. Carter was canvasser of Greenville and vicinity. June. 1873, there were 740 volumes on hand, 430 sold during the year and 83 donated. At the thirty -ninth anniversary, Rev. W. Herr read as follows : " Darke County Bible Society was recognized as an auxiliarvof the American Bible Societv. Julv. 1835. since which time it donated the parent society $78.69 ; expended for books, $1,818.13, and circulated about 3,794 volumes. On December 22, 1875, Rev. Samuel Scott reported visits to 3,306 families ; traveled 1,529 miles in 76 days, in the work, and preached 52 sermons, besides other work, receiving from the society a hearty vote of thanks. On March 16, 1879, officers elected were William M. Matchett, "President ; J. W. Ault. Vice President : E. A. Tilery, Depositary, and A. J. Arnold, Treasurer. The following June, at a called meeting, the Depositaiy reported the books belonging to the society nearly all destnyyed by lire, and such as were of value sufficient were sent to New York for re-binding. On motion, the Gettysburg Soeiet}T was permitted to organize independently. Aside from the calamity of fire, the history of the society is a record of successful religious home missionary work.

There are members of the various benevolent societies in the county, some of which have local organizations, others none. There are forty-five members of the order of Knights Templar in Darke County, who belong to Coleman Commander \\ No. 17, of Troy, and Reed Commandery, No. 6, of Dayton. Of these, twenty-seven reside in Greenville.

A lodge of the Improved Order of Red Men was organized in October, 1870, under a dispensation of the Great Council of State of Ohio, and at one time there was a membership of over eighty. It flourished for a period, and finally the charter was surrendered in May, 1875.

The Patrons of Husbandry spread like a wave all over the country, and in Darke County the societies flourished for a time extensively, and there are still several well-sustained granges. The Greenville Grange was organized April, 1874 ; Arthur Reard, Master ; Everly Otwell, Secretary. Meetings were held in McConnell's Hall, on Rroadway. Shortly afterward, a grange store was established on Rroadway, but did not prove a success. In various localities, organizations are preserved and are successfully managed with manifest advantages to the members.

We close the chapter by brief allusion to an organization known as the " Darke County Self-Protection Association," designed to secure the arrest, conviction and punishment of horse-thieves and other depredators. It was formed in March, 1845, with a score of members, which number was soon increased to forty. James Devor was the first President ; John Wharry, Secretary, and David Stamm, Treasurer. Over a quarter of a century elapsed when a like society was formed and held quarterly meetings. The first President under the late organization was Thomas Lecklider ; Arthur Raird, Secretary.

Telegrams from Charleston, S. C, read as follows: "April 13. The cannonading is going on fiercely from all points, from the vessels outside and all along the coast. It is reported that Fort Sumter is on fire. The batteries on Sullivan's Island, Cummings' Point and Steven's Battery, are pouring shot and shell into Sumter, and Maj. Anderson does not return the fire. Fort Sumter is still on fire."' Then came another dispatch : "Fort Sumter has unconditionally surrendered The people are wild with joy. Two thousand shots were fired altogether. Anderson and men were conveyed to Morris Island under guard."' Finally, the people read : " Maj. Anderson with command will evacuate in the morning and embark on the war vessels now off the harbor."

Whereas, the laws of the United States have been and are now opposed in several of the .States by combinations too powerful to be suppressed in the ordinary way, I, therefore, call forth the militia of the several States of the Union, to the aggregate number of 75,000, to suppress said combinations and execute the laws. I appeal to all loyal citizens to facilitate and aid this effort to maintain the laws, the integrity of the National Union, and the perpetuity of popular government, and redress wrongs that have long been endured. The first service assigned to the forces will be to repossess the forts, places and property that have been seized from the Union. The utmost care will be taken, consistent with the object, to avoid devastation and destruction, or interference with property of peaceful citizens, in any part of the country, and I hereby command persons composing the aforesaid combinations to disperse within twenty days from date. I hereby convene both houses of Congress for the Fourth of July next, to determine upon measures which the public safety and interest demand.

The response from Darke County was prompt, determined and practical. Union meetings were held at Greenville, Union, Hill Grove. Speeches, fervent and patriotic, were delivered, and within a few days, three full companies of volunteers had been raised. On Wednesday afternoon of April 24, three companies had left the county - two from Greenville, led by Capts. Frizell and Newkirk, and one from Union, under Capt. Cranor, aggregating full three hundred men. These troops were mustered into the United States service as Companies C, I and K, of the Eleventh Ohio, and on April 29 went into Camp Dennison, where they rapidly learned the discomforts and expedients of military life, shouting and cheering as they marked the arrival of fresh bodies of improvised troops. At home, the people manifested their zeal by generous contributions for the support of soldiers' families. One hundred and sixty citizens of Darke are named in the Greenville Journal of May 8, for a sum subscribed to that end of $2,500. The mothers, daughters and sisters sent to camp boxes of provisions ; the men freely contributed of their means to aid the loyal cause. Bull Run was fought, and soon three months had gone by and the volunteers returning to Greenville were discharged only to re-enter the service for a longer term. Two companies were soon ready for the field. As the magnitude of the struggle developed, the people of Darke County became yet more resolute in their desire to assist in restoring the union of the States. Meetings continued to be held ; addresses full of fervid appeals were uttered, and a continuous stream of men gathered into camps, were organized and moved southward. The enlistments in the fall of 18G1 were for three years. The Fortieth Regiment contained about two hundred men from Darke. In the Thirtyfourth was a company of eighty-four men who were sent with their regiment to Western Virginia. In the Forty-fourth, a company went out under Capt. J. M. Newkirk. On October 28, the ladies of Greenville met at the court house and organized as " The Ladies' Association of Greenville for the relief of the Darke County Volunteers." The}7 appointed as officers, President, Mrs. A. G. Putnam ; Secretary. Mrs. J. N. Beedle, and Treasurer, Mrs. J. L. Winner, and formed a committee to solicit donations of money and clothing. Public meetings continued to be held at various points ; recruiting was stimulated, and on November 6, it was reported that the count}- had turned out 200 volunteers within twenty days. Letters came from men in the field descriptive of arms, tents, rations, incidents and marches. Novelty excited close observation, and there were reports of duties, health, and all too soon came back the news of death. Heavy tidings is always that of death, and a sad duty to the comrade to tell it to the one watching and waiting at home. This was often done with a tact, a kindness, a language that honored the soldier writer, and tended to assuage the grief of the recipient. Such was the letter penned by Thomas R. Smiley, of the Thirty-fourth, from Camp Red House, West Virginia, to Mrs. Swartz, telling of her son's death, by fever, and closing with these words : " Hoping and praying that God will sustain you in your grief, I most respectfully subscribe myself your friend in sorrow." No wonder the right triumphed, upheld by men of such Christian and manly principles.

The families of soldiers began in midwinter to suffer, and the following extract from the letter of a wife to her husband, a volunteer from Darke Count}-, will show a trial among others borne by the soldier in the sense of helplessness to aid his loved ones. It is commended to the perusal of any who think war a pastime. She wrote : " I have so far been able to support myself and our dear children, with the help that the relief committee gave me ; but I am now unable to work, and the committee has ceased to l'elieve me. I am warned that I will have to leave the comfortable home which you left us in, and I will have to scatter the children. Where will I go and what will become of me ? Don't leave without permission, us it would only be giving your life for mine. I will trust in God and live in hope, although things look very discouraging. Do the best you can, and send some money as soon as possible." During the earlier part of the war. letters told of minor matters, but later accounts were brief and freighted heavily with tidings of buttles, wounds and deaths.

In July. 1862, tin- clouds of war hung heavy with disaster. East and West, terrible battles were fought, and the Southerners, with a desperate, honorable courage, forced their way into .Maryland and Kentucky. New troops volunteered by thousands, and joined the veterans to roll back the tide of invasion. At this time. John L. Winner was Chairman of the Military Committee of Darke, whose proportion of the call for 40,000 men from the State was 350 men for three years. The following shows by townships the number of electors, volunteers and those to raise :

This table, while creditable to all, is especially so to Wayne and Patter-' n Mass meetings were called, volunteers urged to come forward, bounties were offered, and. responding to call by Gov. Tod, the militia was ordered enrolled. Along in August, recruiting proceeded rapidly ; young and middle-aged nocked to the camps, and soon four companies were off to the camp at Piqua. On Si tember 3, 1862, eight townships had exceeded their quota. There were 4,903 men enrolled, and 201 to lie raised by draft. Successive calls found hearty responses. In May, 1864, three townships had filled their quotas, and the draft called for 186 men.

The services of the military committee of Darke deserving of honorable record is herebv acknowledged by a list as it was at the close of 1863: Daniel R. Davis, ('apt. 'Charles Calkins. Capt. B. B. Allen and W. 31. "Wilson, Secretary.

How well Darke County stood at the close of the war may lie learned from the following statistics: The quota of the county in December, 1864, was 455. Of these, 384 volunteered. 24 were drafted, and 408 furnished. Over 1,500 volunteers were out from the county. It is a pleasing duty to briefly place upon the pages of home history a record of those regiments wherein Darke County men rendered service to their country. Brief though it be. it is a worthy meed of honor.

and Thomas McDowell, Lieutenants. The regiment was ordered east, and camped in Virginia. It was re-organized June 20, and mustered in for three years, and sen), in July, on a scout up the Kanawha. The Colonel, incautiously exposing himself, was captured, and the command devolved upon Lieut, Col. Frizell, who. July 20, set out with the regiment on a march to Charleston. Moving at midnight some miles, they halted for other troops, and. during the ensuing day. came upon works of the enemy at Tyler Mound. The rebels tied at their approach, but night was passed in the works of the enemy, and the next day advance was resumed. Wise, on his retreat, had burned the floor of the suspension bridge over the river, and had tried, with partial success, to sever the cable. The bridge was at once repaired, to permit the passage of wagons, and pursuit was made to Gauley Bridge and there ceased. In August, the command was twice engaged near New River. In the first skirmish, several men were wounded, and in the second, one man was killed. Early in October, the regiment was encamped on one of the peaks of Sewell Mountain, from which commanding position they could look down upon the camps of the enemy, whose works were one and one-half miles distant, and see them at work or lounging about. It was claimed, at this time, .that the Eleventh had done as good service as airy other in Western Virginia. They had lain out in the weather sixteen nights, without blankets or shelter, and had not lain in camp four weeks altogether during their stay in the State. October 20, the regiment was ordered to prepare to march at midnight. The vexations and tiresome delays so well understood by old soldiers were experienced, and as the necessity for celerity increased, so did the confusion, and by 7 A. M. they had proceeded but three and a half miles from camp, and were moving at a snail's pace, in the rear of an immense wagon train, drawn by poor, half-starved beasts. Gen. Rosecrans, in command, ordered Gen. Cox, in command of the division, to burn the baggage of the Eleventh, to lighten the wagons. The regiment desired to form the rear guard and save their baggage, but were refused, and a part of this hindrance was destroyed ; thereafter, a comparatively eas}T march succeeded. They went into winter quarters at Point Pleasant early in December, and nothing occurred to vary the routine of camp life until April 16. 1862, when an advance was made, via Winfield, to Gaule}- Bridge. Having proceeded with the division as far as Raleigh, in the campaign of the Kanawha, they were then detached and ordered on post duty - always irksome and subject of reproach. Retreating from Cotton Mountain along the road from Shady Springs to Pack's Ferry, on New River, Floyd thoroughly blockaded the route for sixteen miles. Companies G and K, of the Eleventh, were sent to remove obstructions and guard the road. While one part of the detail was busy with spade and ax, another stood to arms ; and so they labored for five da}'s, when the road was clear to the ferry. They then demolished a barn near by, and from the timbers constructed two boats. There they joined, and so formed a feny-boat 140 feet in length, whereby the wings of the Kanawha arm}' were brought into communication. The regiment returned to Gauley Bridge late in July, when Company C was sent to Summerville, where it remained some time. About the middle of August, the Eleventh was moved to Parkersburg, and transported thence by rail to Washington, D. C, and camped near Alexandria. It was sent, August 27, to Manassas Junction, but, arriving at Fairfax Station, it was ascertained that the enemy were in force at Manassas, and troops posted there were retreating. The enemy, advancing upon the flank, were checked b}' the regiment, which forded Bull Run and formed line of battle near the railroad. Companies E and F were detailed to guard the ford and the railroad, while the rest of the Eleventh assisted in the futile effort to stay the rebel advance. Orders came at 3 P. M. to fall back to Fairfax, and the Eleventh performed their duty as rear guard and insured the safe retreat of the column. At the station the wounded were placed, while the command, about three thousand strong, formed in line outside. Late at night, oixlers came to fall in, and by noon the next da}- the column was safe within the defenses at Washington. The Kanawha division moved next day, and the Eleventh was posted within works on Munson's Hill.

September 6, the Eleventh moved toward Maryland, and by the 12th had encountered the rebel pickets near Frederick City. The enemy held the bridge over the Monocacy, and were strongly posted along its banks. The Union forces were formed in three columns, the central column being opposite the bridge and the Eleventh at its head. The advance began and the enemy were driven from the bridge. Following a charge, the Union line became disorganized and the enemy rallying captured the section of a battery. Gen. Cox called upon Col. Coleman to retake the guns. He led the Eleventh in a charge which not only recovered the artillery, but drove the enemy through the city in a complete rout. By evening of the next day. the Kanawha Division was posted near Middletovvn. ami the Eleventh was near the bridge over Catoctin Creek. Early on the following morning, the creek was crossed, and the division marched toward Turner's G-ap, in South Mountain. They were now near the enemy, and turning to the left entered the old Sharpsburg road, and in a narrow ravine covered by forest trees and underwood, the Eleventh prepared for battle. As the order came to advance, the men moved along the skirts of a strip of woods and frustrated an effort of the enemy to flank our lines. Sharpshooters kept up their deadly practice, but there was no recreancy. About mid-day there was one of those ominous lulls, which are forerunners of the crash of battle, and about 3 P. M.. amid hard fighting, the Union lines were seen advancing. The Eleventh advanced over an open field upon the enemy sheltered by a stone wall. Reaching the wall, the soldiers fought with clubbed guns and bayonets, in an almost hand-to-hand fight. The rebels finally fell back toward Sharpsburg. and again, as morning came, the Union columns were in pursuit. The army now gathered for the struggle at Antietam, and the Kanawha Division, under Gen. Cook, was posted near the lower bridge over Antietam Creek, the Eleventh being in line upon a slope of ground above the bridge. The battle of September 17 had raged furiously with varying fortune, until 10 A. M.j when an attempt was made to carry the bridge, but so heavy a fire was encountered from the heights opposite that the column was driven back. Just at this moment came orders .from the Commander-in-Chief to " carry the bridge at all hazards." The Eleventh was placed at the head of the charging column, and began a steady, determined advance. Col. Coleman fell mortally wounded. There was momentary irresolution ; then the men closed up firmly, moved over the bridge, up the heights and dislodged the enemy. Col. Coleman was succeeded in command by P. P. Lane.

A severe march was endured by the division in a march begun on the morning of Oct. 8, to Hagerstown, Md. They reached the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad and were transported to Clarksburg, and as the November storms came on, the Eleventh, without tents, blankets or adequate clothing, suffered from exposure, but in the distribution of the troops they were sent to Summerville. an outpost of the troops in the Kanawha Valley, and there, erecting good winter quarters, soon surrounded themselves with the protection needed to recover health and spirits. While apart of the regiment held the post, another part was mounted and guarded the Gauley fords. A foray was made into the county during the winter, and the men suffered materially from the severity of the weather.

In January, 1863, the command under Gen. Cook was embarked at Gallipolis, and proceeded via Ohio and Cumberland to Nashville, Tenn., whence they moved to Carthage on the Tennessee, and fortified their position. March 24. the Eleventh went on a scout to Rome and captured a captain, a number of soldiers, a wagon train and a number of teams belonging to the command of Gen. Forrest.

April 13, the Eleventh took part in a reconnaissance toward McMinnville, and found the enemy with artillery and cavalry prepared to dispute advance. Col. Lane, in command, sent for cannon and his troops repelled attacks made upon them. The command was ordered to return to Carthage. Another march was made ten days later with no results, and May 27. the Eleventh marched to Murfreesboro. and was placed in Third Division. Fourteenth Army Corps, under Glen. George II. Thomas, dune 24. the division under Gen. Reynolds, moving along the Manchester pike, engaged the enemy at Hoover's Gap. The Eleventh stood to arms during the night, and. following up the repulse of the enemy, led the advance into Manchester, and captured a number of rebels. The Eleventh in advance of the brigade moved, on the 29th, upon the Tullahoma road. The enemy was encountered at noon and driven. On July 1, Cook's brigade entered Tullahoma. The Eleventh followed the enemy to the immediate vicinity of Decherd Station, on the Nashville & Chattanooga Railroad, and August 2, moved to University, Jasper, and, September 1, crossed the Tennessee at Shell Mound ; moved to Trenton, thence through Cooper's Gap, and on the 17th repulsed a rebel attack at Catlett's Gap. The Eleventh changed position during the next day several times, marched by night, and b}T daylight of the 19th, was in line of battle near Gordon's Mill, on a wooded rise of ground east of the Rowville road. At this point, Chaplain Lyle rode to the center of the line and, briefly exhorting the men, asked them to join him in prayer. At once, eveiy hat was removed, the colors were dropped, and amid the crashes of musketry the voice of the minister was heard. Gen. Reynolds passing, halted, and as the prayer ceased, expressed satisfaction at being present, as he shook the chaplain's hand.

Following this impressive ceremony, the Eleventh was at once marched to the support of other regiments, holding their ground under a deadly fire, and within a short time was advanced to the front line. The balls from sharpshooters were annoying the men to such a degree that an advance was ordered and the enemy dislodged. During the afternoon, the fights continued and finally a charge cleared the division front. Next day, the regiment erected a low breastwork of logs and stones upon a rise of ground, and encountered a fire so severe that in thirty minutes Compaivy D had lost half its men, killed or wounded. Twice the breastwork took fire ; the third time it became necessary to extinguish the flames, and this was done by volunteers from Company B. As the afternoon wore awa}', the enemy, pouring through a gap in the lines, opened a telling cross-fire upon the Eleventh. Turchin's brigade, charging, drove them, breaking their ranks, and capturing men and guns. With night came retreat, via Rowville to Chattanooga. Several days later, a force was sent out, and in this the Eleventh engaged in a sharp skirmish with the rebels, and was then marched to occupy the line of pits to the left of Fort Negley. Later, the Eleventh moved down to Brown's Ferry, to arrest a movement to gain a position on Lookout Mountain.

November 23, the Eleventh advanced in the line on Mission Ridge, charging, it captured a battle-flag and cannon. Sergt. Bell, color-bearer, was repeatedly struck, and, finally, unable to rise, resigned the colors to Lieut. Peck, who had but planted them on the rebel works, when he fell, mortally wounded. The regiment was severely engaged at Ringgold Gap. whence it marched back to Chattanooga. On February 17, 1864, Chaplain Lyle presented the Eleventh with a stand of colors - the gift of the ladies of Troy, Ohio. The regiment took part in a reconnaissance toward Rocky Face Ridge and found the enemy in a strong position at Buzzard's Roost. Here a most unfortunate mistake involved the regiment in a heavy loss. It was ordered to charge up a hill strongly defended by infantry and artilleiy ; as a result, the regiment was finalby compelled to retire with a loss of one-sixth of its force. The command returned to Ringgold, and March 26. the veterans, 200 strong, returned home to recruit. They were assigned garrison duty till June 10, when they set out for home and were mustered out on the 20th at Camp Dennison, two companies having longer to serve : and the veterans were designated as the Eleventh Ohio Detachment, and placed in Baird's division, of the Fourteenth Army Corps, with which the}" accompanied Sherman upon his marches.

The Thirty-Fourth Regiment. - A fine company of eighty-four men was enlisted by Capt. Thomas R. Smiley, from Darke County, and regularly mustered into service at Camp Dennison, September 10, 1861, as Company K of the Thirty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. The regiment was ordered into Western Virginia, and posted at Gauley Bridge. It took part in the battle of Princeton, May 17 and 18, losing several men. Again, on September 10, while it and the Thirty-seventh were holding the outpost at Fayetteville, they were attacked by Gen. Loring, with a force of 10,000 men. Behind works, and aided by a battery, they held their ground till night, when they retreated. At times the Thirty-fourth fought uncovered, and, of six companies engaged, one-third of the men were killed or wounded, and one-half the officers. In .May. L863, the regiment was supplied with horses and became known as "Mounted Rifles." On July 13, 1860, the Rifles, with nine companies of cavalry, moved upon the Virginia & Tennessee Railroad, and encountered the enemy on the 18th, at Wytheville. The enemy were well posted under cover of houses and on high ground, and the fighting was desperate. About sundown, the rebels were routed and their guns captured. The Colonel was shot from his horse, and Lieut. Col. Franklin ordered a retreat. The roads were blockaded, and they returned with difficulty. In January, 1864, a majority of the men veteranized. The regiment was divided in April - the mounted men being under Averill, the others, in Crook's division. Following active service, and engagements more or less important, we find the regiment, on June 8, at Staunton, ready to take part in Hunter's raid to Lynchburg. Shots were exchanged with rebels who had been driven from Lexington, at Buckhannon, on the James. The Blue Ridge was crossed and a skirmish took place at Liberty. A partially successful attack was made on the afternoon of June 18, upon Lynchburg, but the place was not occupied, and during the night heav}" re-enforcements came up from Richmond, and the national forces were put upon their defense. The enemy crowded closely upon the retiring column, and a skirmish took place at Libert}'. At Salem, on the 21st inst., the rebels struck Hunter's artillery in a pass, and were rapidly destroying the caissons and rendering the guns useless, when the " Rifles " came up, and after a sharp fight, regained the guns. The discomfited army reached Charleston, July 1. Nine days later, the regiment once more united as infantry, embarked on transports for Parkersburg ; moved thence to Martinsburg, in the Shenandoah Valley, and on July 20, formed part of a force that attacked Early near Winchester, routed him, took his guns and inflicted a severe blow. On the 24th, the battle of Winchester was fought, where, later, Sheridan restored the day. Devol's brigade, in which which was the Thirty-fourth, brought up the rear. The regiment lost Lieut. Col. Shaw and many men. Next da}T, a stand was made at Martinsburg, and from this field the Thirty-fourth was the last to retire, under a heav}7 fire. Various marches occupied the regiment with occasional heavy skirmishing, until early in September, when the non-veterans set out for home. Notwithstanding the loss occasioned by the discharge of the men, the regiment, augmented by recruits, numbered over four hundred men. They were engaged, September 3, at Berryville, and at Winchester on September 19, then, again, at Fisher's Hill, on the 22d. The loss to the Thirtyfourth in the last two actions was sixty-one killed. On the evening of October 18, the regiment was on picket, and Earby's men surprised them, capturing the Colonel and eighteen men, killing two and wounding twelve. January 11, 1865, 300 men of the Thirty-fourth, with a part of the Eighth Ohio Cavalry (dismounted), were surprised at Beverly, and only through the excitement and darkness were mairy enabled to escape. February 22, 1865, the remnant of the Thirt}--fourth was consolidated with the Thirty-sixth, as the Thirty-sixth Veteran Volunteer Infantry.

The Fortieth Regiment Ohio Infantry. - This regiment was organized at Camp Chase, Ohio, in September, October and November, 1861. All of Companies E and G, the greater portion of Compairy I, and parts of F and K of said regiment were recruited from Darke County.

On the 17th day of December. 1861, the regiment left Camp Chase for Kentucky, spending Christmas on the farm of Brutus Clay, five miles east of Paris, Ky. On the next day, December 26, the regiment started for the Sandy Valley, via Mount Sterling and McCormick's Gap, and arrived at Paintsville, Ky., January 8, 1862. On the 9th, 300 picked men (thirty from each company), a Colonel, two Captains, two First and two Second Lieutenants were detailed as the regiment's proportion of the 1,000 picked men from the brigade with which Col. J. A. Garfield compelled the rebel force under Gen. Humphrey Marshall, amounting to over four thousand men, to evacuate Eastern Kentucky. The battle of Middle Creek, Kentucky, occurred between these forces on the 10th day of January, 1862. In that battle, the 300 men of the Fortieth Ohio were divided into two companies of 150 men each. One company, under the immediate command of Col. Cranor, attacked the enemy on the right, while the" other company, under Capt. Matchett, were placed on our extreme left, with instructions to protect our left. Col. Garfield, in his report of the battle, shows that the field was hotly contested, and that the heaviest fighting was on the left. Capt. Matchett states, however, that " although the enemy sought to displace him from his position, yet his advantages over them were such that he was in no actual danger, having the advantage both in position and arms. The enemy, being principally armed with squirrel rifles and shot-guns, could not hope to be effective except on close range, while the Prussian rifles with which his men were armed, were effective from 1,500 yards down to the point of the bayonet. The rebels advanced upon his position two or three times, but were each time repulsed before they had come within 200 yards of it, and although the firing was quite heavy on our left, and some dead rebels were found in front of the left next morning, yet he had none killed nor wounded on the left."

Capt. Matchett further states that the " severest fighting was on the right where Col. Cranor was, but that the whole fight did not amount to a respectable skirmish, as we afterward learned on the Atlanta campaign."

On the 16th of March, the regiment participated in another skirmish at Pound Gap and drove the rebels from that stronghold, and thereby relieved Eastern Kentucky of the presence of an armed rebel force.

Soon after that, Garfield left Eastern Kentucky, and the command of the brigade devolved on Col. Cranor, who continued in command until February 1863 when he resigned. On the 21st of February, 1863, the regiment left Eastern Kentucky, and joined the Army of the Cumberland at Nashville, Teun., on the 28th of the same month.

On March 5, the regiment joined the Army of Kentucky, under Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger, at Franklin, Tenn. From that time, they remained with that army - afterward known as the Reserve Army Corps - until after the battle of Chickamauga.

On the 10th of April, 1863, the regiment was placed on picket duty in front of the town, with Capt. Matchett in command. At that time, the rebel forces, under

Gen. Van Dorn, were stationed at Spring Hill, Terra., nine miles south of Franklin. Soon after 12 o'clock >!., the rebels commenced an attack on seven companies of the Fortieth, which had been stationed on and between the Columbia Pike and the Big Earpeth River (a distance of about five hundred yards), but were handsomely repulsed. The attack was renewed with re-enforcements, and again repulsed. By this time, the enemy were preparing to charge in force, and the situation of the Fortieth was precarious. Behind them, for the distance of more than half a mile, lay an open field without an obstacle or a shelter on it ; but, momentarily expecting re-enforcements, they held their ground, and repulsed charge after charge, for two hours.

Van Dorn then formed his entire force for a charge, and the Fortieth fell back in good order to the town, where, taking advantage of hedges, fences, houses, etc., they repulsed the enemy and drove them out of town. and. at 4 o'clock P. M., resumed their former position on picket duty.

The Fortieth's loss was three killed, four wounded and ten missing, who were taken prisoners, and all afterward were exchanged and rejoined the command. The enemy's entire loss is not known. Two Captains and fifteen men killed, one Major and twelve men wounded, and thirteen prisoners fell into the hands of the Fortieth. The enemy's entire force was cavalry and two batteries of artillery. Over one hundred horses, equipped, escaped within the Union lines and were captured by other commands. The prisoners, when exchanged reported Van Dorn's entire loss in killed and wounded to be one hundred and fifty men and one hundred and twenty horses.

An incident connected with this fight is worth relating. Among the prisoners captured from the Fortieth that day was Jesse N. Orin, a Sergeant of Company B, afterward a distinguished representative for many years in the Ohio Legislature from Clinton County. The prisoners were taken before Van Dorn, and questioned by him. Sergt. Orin answered in behalf of the captives.

t; Brigades ? There was no other regiment fought against you to-day but tfie Fortieth, and only seven companies of that, for one company was in the town as provost guard, and two companies were on the west of town, and neither of them were engaged."

-- I do not know, sir ; just before we began to fall back, the Captain rode along our lines and told each company that it was evident that we were not to be re-enforced, and we could not successfully retreat over that cotton field, unless each company implicitly obeyed his commands. "\Ye all understood this ; and he concentrated and retired us in the manner you saw."

"When our regiment had retreated about half the distance between the picket-line and the town, a column of your cavalry threatened to pass by our left, and get between us and the town, and ' gobble us all up,' and Capt. .Matchett ordered me and another Sergeant, with about twenty men. to a position about three hundred yards to the left and rear of our regiment, in order to oppose that threatened movement, with orders to hold that position at all hazards, until the regiment had retired beyond the cotton-gin. and then make our way back to town as best we could. We stayed there as ordered, but when your forces in front of the regiment were repulsed, they swept around to our position, on their retreat, and took us all in, except a few who started to run the gantlet back to town."

At this, a fine-looking officer, who was present, broke out in a loud laugh, and said : " Gen. Van Dorn. the joke is on you ; you promised to show us how neatly you could take in the Yankees at Franklin, and it seems that you have been very cleverly repulsed by seven companies of infantry, commanded by a captain, with his left protected by a sergeant's squad."

At this Sergeant Orin said : " General, I would like to be permitted to say one word in your defense ; that is - there is not a private in the Fortieth Ohio who would not make a good colonel, and not a non-commissioned officer who would not make a good brigadier, and as to the Captain who commanded us to-day, he could handle an arm}* equal to Bonaparte."

" Thank you," said Van Dorn, and then, turning to the officer referred to above, he said : " How could 3*011 expect me, with my division of cavalry, to overcome a Bonaparte, his field-marshals, his sixty generals and 500 colonels ? "